Investors often overlook SEC filings, and it is the job of the 10Q Detective to dig through businesses 8-K and 10-Q SEC filings, looking for financial statement soft spots,'(depreciation policies, warranty reserves, and restructuring charges, etc.)that may materially impact Quality of Earnings. , , , , . Kochanny: We did one last hike before the longest day of the year sports A common challenge for many businesses is having adequate connectivity. Youd think in the US this isnt an issue but I can tell you from firsthand experience (I am also CEO of a New York and Connecticut provider of IT support), in many buildings, the landlord signs an exclusive contract with a carrier and subsequently the tenants are stuck with one, often poor choice. Quite often, these buildings have only copper connections and they are generally very old. In other words, the telco locks in a building to avoid having to upgrade service to compete with cablecos. In a meeting with CommScope at MWC16, they shared their new global research which reveals that access to cellular mobile coverage indoors could increase a propertys value by 28% meaning a 2.5 million office building could be worth 700,000 more with a dedicated indoor cellular system. As of this writing that figure equates to just under one million US dollars. The research was carried out by Coleman Parkes who surveyed the professionals who design and manage such buildings. In my experience, when wired broadband connectivity is lacking, these buildings are generally located in areas where wireless signals are also poor. It goes without saying these tenants will think twice before renting again in such buildings and moreover, they will likely expect even better wireless connectivity from the buildings they consider. This makes more sense when you consider how many companies are moving to the cloud and need constant, hiccup free connectivity. Dr. Ispran Kandasamy, global leader, Building Solutions, CommScope, believes building professionals should take greater responsibility. People are obsessed with their mobile phones and see indoor wireless coverage as important as having access to water and electricity, said Kandasamy. The time has come for building professionals to step forward and take ownership for connecting their tenants to mobile networks. COMMSCOPE CELLMAX-D-CPUSE While there are clearly concerns around the cost and complexity of the technology, building owners must acknowledge that ignoring this issue could result in more costly work in the future. Engaging with architects, facilities managers and enterprises at an early stage will ultimately save money as well as providing an enhanced user experience. Only by taking the lead will building owners be able to provide much needed connectivity in their properties. CommScope has a blend of distributed antenna systems (DAS) and small cells (thanks to its Airvana acquisition.) according to Bill Walter, who handles corporate communications for the company. Colin Bryce said the company focuses on commercial grade service put into buildings not femtocells you might purchase at Best Buy. In addition, the company focuses on airports, stadiums and other large deployments which may need to handle multi-operator systems. I asked why customers should choose CommScope and the reply was We extend carrier grade in buildings and provide a breadth of solutions for numerous building sizes and commercial applications. As leases come up for renewal, building owners will be under more pressure than ever to ensure tenants are able to have seamless connectivity within their organizations so they can effectively run their businesses. In case youre interested, the MSP I am involved with recently had many problems with bonding two DSL lines for a customer due to very poor connectivity from the carrier. In addition, a local restaurant has been plagued with connectivity problems keeping them from effectively charging customers for their food. In both cases the incumbent LEC with its old copper wires was the sole provider. I expect that companies will soon wise up and not rent in buildings which dont have competitive broadband options or at least solid wireless alternatives. Ive just returned from a whirlwind event for the telecom market known as Mobile World Congress and Im still amazed by the amount of optimism Ive just witnessed. It would not be an exaggeration to say this level of excitement about the future of telecom hasnt been seen since 1998. Although it has great food, the city of Barcelona has a pretty poor economy. When this show comes into town however, prices skyrocket and the locals benefit from 100,000 people with money, looking to spend it. Europe being Europe of course decided this would be a great opportunity to do what they do exceedingly well Have a transit strike, snarling the city in delays of up to 90 minutes to get to the convention center or fira as they call it. Putting that aside, the event was really telling about the future trends in the market. Here they are. 1) The Handset is dead meaning there is no more innovation left at least nothing weve seen lately to distinguish one phone over another. In fact, people have even become fatigued at new models from companies like Samsung. All the profit in the space goes to Apple anyway and they arent even at the show so it doesnt make much sense to discuss phones. The biggest computer news came from Huawei where the company announced a Microsoft Surface clone, the MateBook, which is you guessed it Cheaper. Ho, hum. 2) Virtual Reality captivated many people which you could tell because waves of them had big hulking devices strapped to their heads. Its possible the interest level is overestimated because to try this tech, you need to sit for some time and attach a cybernetic octopus equivalent to your face. Yet, it would be unwise to downplay this technology. Dont be surprised in fact, if 15+% of our global population is lost to VR, rarely if ever leaving their homes. These are the people already prone to excess texting, video game playing and other leisure, mobile tech activities. 3) 5G was a hot topic at the show with many companies looking to be the leader in this emerging new wireless standard. 4) IoT is everywhere and everything was another persistent theme. Every company that could possibly find a way to alter their product to support IoT seemed to be doing so. As a result, there is more confusion that ever about what really is IoT, what isnt and exactly how the market is going to evolve. 5) Consolidation will continue unabated as companies look to fill holes in their product lines. A number of companies told me off the record they were being looked at by some of the largest players in the market. Perhaps this is nothing new but for acquisitive companies, the number of areas you need to be involved in seems to be growing more quickly than ever. 6) Digital transformation is really at the heart of the show from a few perspectives. Companies are transforming themselves by using IoT data and big data analytics to better run their organizations. They are literally becoming more productive and efficient at the same time thanks to effective use of technology. Furthermore, they are adapting to customer behavior which now centers on mobile devices, meaning they have to really worry about omnichannel experiences like never before. For the carrier, digital transformation means the continued move to a software telco model or adoption of SDN and NFV. This evolution is how carriers will compete with OTT suppliers and increase their levels of flexibility as they try to deal with an ever-changing world. 7) Smart Machines which I roughly describe as the intersection of big data, analytics and cognitive computing is growing in importance. In many cases this is because the ability to measure, monitor and respond to business needs with sensors and a wealth of never-before-available information may be the greatest differentiator of our time. 8) APIs everywhere the majority of my over fifty scheduled meetings mentioned APIs as a way for companies to grow their businesses by allowing others to take advantage of their unique solutions. Every company wants to be at the center of their sectors ecosystem and APIs are how theyre doing it. 9) Digital Invention is the literal tsunami of new business models and opportunities that are springing up as a result of APIs, smart machines and IoT sensor data being used to develop new ideas like detailed industry baselines which companies can measure themselves against. In other words, now more than ever, a company can use tech to see exactly how their smart farming or factory output compares to the competition. They can even drill down to see water usage per crop versus the average. Another data point could be profit per square foot. This is just one example of a torrent of new business models which are being and will be created soon. 10) RCS is on fire. A few vendors told me carriers are finally spending and in large amounts of money on RCS solutions. The vendors are surprised but happy. In summary, the show was about optimism. Optimism that technology can transform businesses and make them more profitable. Carriers dont invest massive amounts of money if they arent optimistic. And carriers arent optimistic if they dont think they can charge for the new solutions they are purchasing. Even more surprising is this spending is happening amidst a backdrop of global economic uncertainty. All in all, great news for the future of tech and telecom. Watch ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 live on YuppTV YuppTV has bagged the digital rights to live stream the ICC Men's T20 World Cup 2022 to entertain cricket fans in several parts of the w... YuppTV Bags Broadcasting Rights for The ICC MENS T20 World Cup 2022 ~The telecast rights are for 75 countries across Asia & Europe~ Atlanta, 20th October 2022: YuppTV, an over-the-top (OTT) South Asian c... Watch ICC Mens T20 World Cup 2021 Live on YuppTV World's biggest cricket T20 league is back after five years. Get ready to experience high voltage cricket action live on YuppTV. 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YuppTV Launches Janya Cloud Playout, A Disruptive Solution In The TV Industry Hyderabad, 5 October 2022 : YuppTV, an over-the-top South Asian content provider, announced the launch of Janya, a cloud-based playout solut... ION broadband offers YuppTV Scope to their broadband users YuppTV scope service offers multiple leading OTT services like ZEE5, SonyLiv, EPIC ON & YuppTV under single subscription Hyderabad, 22n... Holly Harrar, 22, of Pottstown, was crowned Miss Philadelphia 2016 on Saturday night. She will go on to compete in the Miss Pennsylvania Pageant in June. Read more Soon after 22-year-old Holly Harrar was crowned Miss Philadelphia on Saturday night, the text messages and calls started flooding in from friends and family. With no time to return them between celebrating and an early-morning television appearance, she had more than 100 unanswered messages by Sunday morning. "I just want to tell them 'I'm sorry I haven't responded!' " Harrar, of Pottstown, said with a laugh Sunday. Harrar, a senior communications and journalism major at Shippensburg University who will graduate in May, beat out 17 contestants at the Miss Philadelphia Pageant, held at Drexel University. She will go on to compete against dozens of women from around the state in the Miss Pennsylvania Pageant in June. The winner of that pageant would represent Pennsylvania in the Miss America Pageant, held in Atlantic City later this year. Along with the crown, Harrar won $10,000 in scholarship money. She will spend the year making public appearances and working to raise awareness of disability-rights issues, her chosen platform as a pageant contestant. As a child, Harrar was close with a cousin her age who suffered from juvenile rheumatoid arthritis, which caused her hands to clench and made it difficult for her to write or handle objects in school. Harrar's cousin died at 11 from complications related to her medication. Now Harrar thinks about the impact her cousin had on her classmates, who sometimes asked what was wrong with her hands. Harrar knows that her cousin was likely the first person many of them had met who struggled with a physical disability. "I always knew she had challenges, but they never stopped her," Harrar said. "I just wanted to continue her legacy of hard work and dedication." Harrar is also completing a minor in disability studies, through which she said she has learned about a variety of disabilities through volunteer opportunities. In the years to come, she sees herself working as either a disability-rights advocate or a broadcast journalist. "I'd like to be here in Philadelphia, reporting for a local news station," she said. The Miss Philadelphia Scholarship Organization started in 1921 as part of the Miss America Organization. Contestants must live, work or go to school full time in Bucks, Montgomery, Delaware, Chester, or Philadelphia Counties. asteele@phillynews.com 856-779-3876@AESteele Frank Crossin, a clerical supervisor at the city's Criminal Justice Center, will celebrate his 17th birthday on Monday. OK, he's really turning 68. But, his birthday is on Feb. 29, so it comes only once every four years, during Leap Year. You might have met Crossin if you've gone to the third-floor Clerk of Courts office in the city's main criminal courthouse, at 13th and Filbert Streets, near City Hall. He's one of the people sitting behind the desk when you ask to look at old court files. We asked Crossin, who was born in 1948 and lives in Northeast Philadelphia, what it's like to still be a teenager. Q: What are you doing to celebrate your birthday this year? A: I'll go out with my girlfriend for dinner and my secretary is taking me to lunch in the daytime. . . . I'm working half a day, until 1:30. Q: Growing up, did you get cheated out of celebrating your birthday? A: Not really, because once I got into my 20s and 30s, when I used to have a beer here and there, I could celebrate on the 28th, go into a bar and say, "Hey I'm celebrating my birthday," and then I'd do it the next day on March 1 and say, "Well, this is when I always celebrate my birthday." So you'd get a few beers over the years for free. . . . When I got into my 40s, I hardly celebrated either day. Q: Tell the truth: are you tired of people making Leap Year jokes? A: No. I'm just fascinated by the number of people I've seen over the years that I haven't seen since I went to St. Ambrose [a former first-to-eighth grade Catholic school on Roosevelt Boulevard]. . . . They say, "How old are you now?" It just stays in their mind. . . . When it comes Monday, there will be a whole lot of people in this city saying, "I wonder how Frankie Crossin is doing? I remember he used to be a Leap Year baby." Q: What's the most annoying question people have asked you about your Leap Year birthday? A: That question: "How old are you now?" Yeah, that gets a little repetitious. Q: But still, you seem to be OK with it. A: Oh, it's fine. Yeah. I've gotten my picture and name in the paper when I was 4 years old, technically I was only 1. . . . Another thing, in 1976, I was dying to see the Villanova-St. Joe's game, and they were sold out. There was a guy who wrote a column in the Daily News at that time called Mr. Fix-It. . . . So my fiancee, just for the hell of it, called him and told him that her fiance was a Leap Year guy, any chance of getting Villanova-St. Joe's tickets? And he called the next day and said there will be two waiting for you. . . . That was the nicest birthday present I've ever had, come to think of it. . . . And St. Joe's won, to make it even better. Q: And you were also written about in the Inquirer in 1968. The article, which my editor found on microfilm, says you were an Army soldier at the time and were marking your fifth birthday. When did you join the Army? A: I went in November of 1967. . . . I was drafted. Q: Did you have to go to Vietnam? A: No. I don't know why, but I didn't. . . . Fort Bliss, Texas. I was there a year and a half. . . . I was a supply sergeant. Q: Were you ever married? A: Yeah, I was married. Twice. I've been a widower for 12 years now. (He married the woman who had called Mr. Fix-It, but they got divorced. His second wife died from cancer.) Q: Is there any common trait that you've found among people born on Leap Day? A: No. I've never met anyone born on that day. Q: Besides asking for old court files, why else do people come in the Clerk of Courts office? A: Some private investigative people come in here to try to dig up addresses of people they're looking for. And women, to see if their new boyfriend has a rap sheet. Q: Do you feel like you're 17 or closer to 70? A: (Laughs out loud.) Closer to 80. No, not bad at all. shawj@phillynews.com 215-854-2592@julieshawphilly Pig producers in the UK and Finland are being asked to share experiences in a new move to help tackle the problem of tail-biting. AHDB Pork, RSPCA Assured and the University of Helsinki have joined forces to produce and distribute a questionnaire aimed at tackling tail-biting, with producers in both countries being urged to take part. The questionnaire is going to producers in both the UK and in Finland where tail docking is banned to give us some valid comparisons and we are seeking the help of pig producers in the UK to provide some data, said AHDB Pork health and welfare projects manager, Katja Stoddart. All results and findings will be reported anonymously to provide better information to producers on tail management and tail-related issues. The information which is gathered will be shared with the UKs Pig Health and Welfare Council with the findings also being compared and exchanged with those reported by Finnish producers. The questionnaire, which has already been sent out to a number of producers, is also available online at the following link https://www.surveymonkey.co.uk/r/taildamage Get Our E-Newsletter - Pig World's best stories in your in-box twice a week See e-newsletter example Will be used in accordance with our Privacy Policy Eight months after the LightSail test mission ended with a successful solar sail deployment and fiery plunge into Earth's atmosphere, the program's successor spacecraft is deep into system testing, preparing for its day in the sun. Now, the loaf of bread-sized CubeSat has a new designation: LightSail 2. "Many series of spacecraft have used the convention of program name followed by a sequential numberfor example, the Mariner line of spacecraft, Voyagers, and the Apollo program," said Dr. Bruce Betts, director of science and technology for The Planetary Society. "The LightSail program will now follow in this storied tradition." To celebrate the name change, The Planetary Society has released a new video showing footage from a late January sail deployment at Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. In it, engineers carefully attend to the spacecraft as it unfurls four, Mylar sails into a kite-like pattern. PokerStars.fr Exits Austria To Avoid Double Taxation February 29, 2016 Jason Glatzer Editor PokerStars.fr, the French-regulated client of PokerStars, announced last week to its Austrian player base that it will no longer be servicing players residing in the country starting at 10:00 ET on March 1, 2016. The notification informed Austrian players that a change in regulatory framework is the reason they will no longer be welcome to play on the French PokerStars client. Upon the news, poker players flocked to poker forums, including TwoPlusTwo, to discuss the news along with the reasons this is taking place. The email Austrian customers received explains that players can still use their StarsCoin balances to purchase items in the VIP Store and the site will automatically convert tournament dollars and tickets into cash. Here is the message players received last week: We are writing to inform you that, due to the latest change in legal framework in Austria, starting at 10:00 ET on March 1 we will stop allowing players based in Austria to play on the PokerStars.fr site. Your PokerStars.fr account will remain open and accessible, and your funds can be withdrawn at any time to your registered bank account. Any tournament tickets or T balance will automatically be converted into Euro when you visit the cashier. You are welcome to use your StarsCoin to purchase cash rebates or any other items from the VIP Store, with the exception of online tickets. Please also be informed that your real money and StarsCoin balances cannot be transferred between accounts on different licenses. Players speculated that the reason for the pullout could have related to a recent deal announced between Playtech, the owner of the iPoker Network, and Win2Day, owned by Austrian Lotteries and Casinos Austria, where the former would provide poker platform services to the latter could have been the reason of the pullout due to the timing. Even though Win2Day is currently the only online poker network licensed in Austria under its gaming regime, this news appears to be just coincidental and unrelated. However, this is not believed to be likely the case, as Austrian TwoPlusTwo poster "DebtsNBooze" shared an email PokerStars.fr support sent when asking for an explanation. On January 1, 2016, PokerStars started paying gaming duty taxes to the Austrian Government for play on PokerStars.FR by players who had a registered address in Austria. This additional tax was in addition to the tax that PokerStars was already paying to the French government for play by all players on PokerStars.FR. It was unsustainable for PokerStars to pay double tax to both the Austrian and French Governments for play by Austrians on PokerStars.fr. Consequently, we have little choice, and need to stop allowing players with a registered address in Austria to play on PokerStars.fr. Please note this is only for Austian players. We appreciate your understanding. The double taxation issue is a sticky one. Due to French regulations, online poker operators are taxed approximately 37 percent on gross gaming revenues. The large tax already puts a significant dent into the profit margins for any online poker company providing regulated services under a French license. Austria, who does not exempt online gaming from the EU VAT Directive levies a large 20-percent tax on all gaming transactions. It is therefore logical that PokerStars.fr came to the decision to discontinue services to Austrian residents. This isn't the first time PokerStars.fr pull out of a gaming market due to double taxation. In December 2014, the United Kingdom began enforcing the United Kingdom Gambling (Licensing and Advertising) Act 2014 which includes a 15 percent Point of Consumption Tax to online gaming companies. PokerStars.fr informed players in the United Kingdom in September 2014 its plans to pull out of the market ahead of the schedule plans being enforced. Stay tuned to PokerNews for more news as it happens in the Austrian gaming marketplace. Get all the latest PokerNews updates on your social media outlets. Follow us on Twitter and find us both Facebook and Google+! Ronald Williams Hamilton has been charged with murdering Officer Ashley Guindon and shooting two other officers. He is being held without bond. (Photo: Prince William County PD) The Army staff sergeant accused of killing his wife and a Prince William County, VA, police officer on her first day on the job was held without bond Monday after being arraigned. Ronald Williams Hamilton, 32, who is also accused of wounding two other officers, appeared at two brief arraignment hearings in Prince William County via a video feed from the local jail. One was for his wifes death, the other for the attack on the officers, the Washington Post reports. According to charging documents, three Prince William County police officers who were responding on Saturday to a call for a domestic dispute went to Hamiltons front door, where they were met by him. Hamilton then opened fire from the area of the front door striking all three officers, the documents say. Officer Ashley Guindon died a short time later from her wounds. Two other officers remain hospitalized but are expected to recover. Officer Ashley Guindon was shot and killed on her first day on the job. The Marine veteran was assisting other officers on a domestic violence call when they were ambushed. (Photo: Prince William County PD) Funeral services will be held Tuesday for Guindon at the Hylton Memorial Chapel in Woodbridge. Charging documents said Hamilton admitted to police after he was taken into custody that he shot the officers and his wife, Crystal Hamilton. Her body was found in a bedroom in the Hamiltons house, according to charging documents. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print It is beginning to appear that regardless the warnings from respected liberal pundits and journalists alike, there is going to be no end to the rancor among Democrats that portend an electoral disaster in November. As no small number of pundits, reporters, and opinion columnists have noted for months, it is just downright dangerous to even remark about the Democratic race for the presidential nomination. It has gotten so bad that even uttering the once safe line that both sides do it is still dangerous and incites substantial rage among faithful supporters; even though both sides are not doing it. Journalists, pundits, and opinion writers are used to criticism; one can never please everyone and they damn sure should never try to please anyone. However, it is worth spending a few hundred words to warn, once again, that the level of sheer animosity and hostility roiling among Democrats does not bode well for winning anything in November. One Washington Post opinion columnist and journalist, Jonathan Capehart, who made the mistake of putting his opinion in print joined another once-respected journalist, Rachel Maddow, in issuing a stark warning that should be heeded. In Maddows case, the warning targets the Democratic Party for not moving to tamp down the bitterness between Clinton and Sanders supporters that threatens to exacerbate the already extremely poor voter turnout that will only get worse in November. Capehart issued a similar warning and did the really silly thing of enraging one candidates supporters by reporting, albeit mildly, on the level of nastiness he suffered for daring to express his opinion. The point that both Capehart and Maddow are desperately trying to make is that Democrats are is serious electoral trouble in November. As this column noted to incredible criticism and hostility just last week, because Republican voters, with all their faults, will turn out in record numbers to vote for whichever candidate is the eventual nominee, Democrats had better unite, register voters, or weep when a Republican wins the White House. So as not to incur the wrath of any candidate or their passionate acolytes, or give the appearance of having a wrong opinion, taking sides, leveling criticism, or being biased, most of this little screed is a simple report about what two once-respected liberal journalists recently said. They are once-respected now because they lost the support and respect of some Democrats for doing what they are paid to do; having and expressing the wrong opinion. In Jonathan Capeharts article titled A Warning To Warring Democrats In the Clinton-Sanders Race, he wrote; Over the last week, I learned that supporters of Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) will melt the pixels on your computer screen if you criticize him, dont sufficiently #feelthebern or dare say something favorable about Hillary Clinton. Meanwhile, backers of the former Secretary of State are no slouches in smacking down her detractors. Then there are the protectors of the legacy of President Obama who arent happy with the daylight Sanders is putting between himself and the man he hopes to succeed. Its enough to make you think that one side will stay home in November if the other side wins the nomination. If that happens, Democrats would have themselves to blame for the Republican president unleashed on the nation. Rachel Maddow has also been raising concerns about this issue and leveled her own stark warning to warring Democrats. She said that the rhetoric of a mass movement on the Democratic side and the lack of voter enthusiasm is not a good thing for the Democratic Party this year. In the case of Clinton v Sanders, this is probative (establishes proof of her point). It is noteworthy that 41 percent of one Democratic faction would not support the other Democrat if their candidate is not the nominee and, as Capehart reminded, This is what happened in 2010 and 2014 when Democrats lost both houses of Congress because their voters didnt show up at the polls. Maddow and Capehart both note that regardless the incompetent and hate-mongering Republicans seeking their partys nomination, the Republican field is consistently making more people turn out to vote. Republicans have voted in four states so far this year and in every single one they have broken the voter turnout record for that state. Maddow then pointed out, again, that voter turnout for Democrats is down substantially. In fact, it was down 28 percent in Iowa, it was down 13 percent in New Hampshire, and it was down 33 percent in Nevada. As Rachel Maddow said, because lower voter turnout usually bodes well for the more conservative candidate, this is not a good thing for the Democratic Party this year. Add in the Democrats who threaten they will sit out the election to protest the Democratic candidate they would not support, and it is a disaster for the Democratic Party this year and Americans in general for the next 8 years. As Capehart noted in warning that if Democratic voters cannot unite and stop waging a nasty war over candidates with nearly identical goals, Republicans will not only increase their majorities in the House and Senate, they will win the White House. He reminded that, What happened in 2010 was stunning. The Democratic drop-off was almost twice as bad as usual, and the Republican turnout was almost twice as good as usual. In fact, between the historic election of 2008 and 2010, Democrats saw a decrease of 26 million voters, from 65 million people to 39 million people, and the GOP took over the House. It is normal for any candidates supporters to be passionate, but not to the point of threatening to sit out an election. That is precisely what happened in 2010 and the same group is threatening to repeat that disaster if their candidate is not the nominee. With voter turnout on the Republican side breaking records, even with woefully inadequate and incapable candidates, Democrats have only one option to prevent a likely Republican sweep in November to keep both houses of Congress and take the White House for at least eight years. The party and its presidential candidates can either encourage liberal voters to set aside their unprecedented hatred and vitriol for other Democratic voters and channel that energy into getting out the vote, or take responsibility for the inevitable Republican government catastrophe they will have created. That is not an opinion, it is not a criticism of any candidate, it is not taking sides, and it is damn sure not the product of a paid socialist sympathizer; it is an historical fact. A fact that was borne out in both the 2010 and 2014 midterm elections and if Democrats cannot unite, it looks increasingly like what is going to transpire in the 2016 General Election. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print In rapid succession Donald Trump has claimed he doesnt know who David Duke is, and knows nothing about white supremacists. As he told CNNs Jake Tapper on State of the Union, Just so you understand, I dont know anything about David Duke, OK? The two obvious problems with this claim are that 1) he is a bald-faced liar; or 2) he is too ill-informed about the country of which he wants to be president. Of course, Trump was lying, as CNN has pointed out. At least he didnt pretend not to know anything about Mussolini when, as if to put punctuation to my column yesterday about Trump and Hitler, he retweeted Mussolini*: "@ilduce2016: It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep. @realDonaldTrump #MakeAmericaGreatAgain" Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 28, 2016 Mussolini, of course, was Hitlers contemporary and ally and fascist dictator of Italy. He isnt on twitter of course, given he was killed by Italian partisans a long time ago. The tweet even came from an account called ilduce2016 which is the fascist dictators title, Il Duce (The Leader) the equivalent of Hitlers better known title of Der Fuhrer). How does Donald, or his social media people, miss such obvious signs that perhaps a tweet should not be retweeted? And then compounded his sin by defending it to Chuck Todd Sunday on Meet the Press. Watch Trump try to brazen it out: "Mussolini was MussoliniWhat difference does it make?" @realDonaldTrump on his retweet of a Mussolini quote. #MTP pic.twitter.com/CCpNEzkYAN Meet the Press (@meetthepress) February 28, 2016 Its okay to know its Mussolini. Look, Mussolini was Mussolini. Its a very good quote, its a very interesting quote, and I know it. I saw it. And I know who said it. But what difference does it make whether its Mussolini or somebody else? Its certainly a very interesting quote. Thats probably why I have between Facebook and Twitter 14 million people when other people dont. Yes, Mussolini was Mussolini. If he didnt send Jews to concentration camps, he did not treat them well: Italian Jews were disenfranchised from 1938 on, forbidden to attend public schools, dismissed from university professorships and banned not only from the military but civil service. And that leaves out entirely Italian brutality against the people of both Libya and Ethiopia. One of Mussolinis field marshals, Rudolfo Graziani, was called the Breaker of Natives for tossing them out of airplanes onto their camps like bombs. Mussolini was Mussolini alright. And not somebody you should be blithely quoting let alone defending. Trump has already told us there is no freedom of the press when it comes to Donald Trump, no matter what the First Amendment may claim. Now it turns out that because he has so many followers on social media that he can say anything he wants, no matter how offensive, a sort of twisted popularity makes right approach to morality. Chuck Todd asked the obvious question: Do you want to be associated with a fascist? No, I want to be associated with interesting quotes. And people, you know, I have almost 14 million people between Instagram and Facebook and Twitter and all of that. And we do interesting things. And I sent it out. And certainly, hey, it got your attention, didnt it? Well, so would Hitler quotes from your little bedside book of Hitlers speeches. Is that next? The twitter handle ilduce2016, interestingly, was created by the website Gawker which sent the tweet to Trump. Gawker talks all about their little scheme in How We Fooled Donald Trump Into Retweeting Benito Mussolini: We came up with the idea for that Mussolini bot under the assumption that Trump would retweet just about anything, no matter how dubious or vile the source, as long as it sounded like praise for himself. (It helps that that a number of Mussolinis quotes sound plausibly like lines from Trumps myriad books.) The account, @ilduce2016, was created by Gawker senior writer Ashley Feinberg and Gawker Media Editorial Labs director Adam Pash. It has tweeted solely at Donald Trump, multiple times a day, since December 2015. Whats funny is that people at Gawker were concerned the twitter handle ilduce was too obvious, that it wouldnt trick anyone but a complete idiot. Today, Donald Trump proved himand all of usright. All this suggests a cottage industry in the making. Im not suggesting anything. Im just sayin. * Quote attributed in Duce (1922-42) in TIME magazine (2 August 1943) Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print It is curious that after Donald Trump won a couple of primaries, everywhere one turns there are stories about the Republican establishments anguished fits over the hotel magnate taking control of the party. However concerned the party elite and their donors may be, it is more likely they are upset that Trump swooped in and took advantage of the establishments eight year propaganda and conditioning campaign; the one that created the Donalds passionate supporters. What is a mystery, really, is why the Party elite and establishment are not wholeheartedly embracing Trump as the RNCs natural standard bearer. He is, by any measure, the epitome of a neo-conservative hero and the perfect representation of everything Republicans have promised the base they would deliver for at least the past four years; likely the past eight years since Barack Obama became a national figure. The only thing Trump is doing that bothers the GOP establishment is repeating on the national stage, at rallies and on the campaign trail what the party has preached for eight years and what every other Republican has said in semi-isolated environs. Remember, since Barack Obama won the presidency in 2008, the Republican establishment and their powerful money machine have fostered and exploited hate, white-rage, and paranoia to incite its base and subsequently set the stage for a Trump-like characters rise to power. Oh it is true that virtually all of the GOP presidential candidates embrace the nasty rhetoric the Republican base is lapping up from Trump, they are just too timid to say out loud what the base craves, yes craves, to hear. It is worth noting that in 2012 at the RNC convention Senator Lindsey Graham warned the Party elite that Were not generating enough angry white guys to stay in business for the long term. Grahams remark was likely right for the long term; but the partys crusade over seven-and-a-half years has generated more than enough of the angry white base the Donald is riding toward the Republican nomination. It may be true that the establishment reserved any blatant hate-mongering for non-white, non-Christian, and non-conservatives for its closest insiders and private meetings, but it did use Barack Obama as a surrogate for everything the GOP base was conditioned to hate. In fact, the hate-mongering began in earnest during the 2008 general election campaign when Senator John McCain unleashed Sarah Palin on the country to launch the now-notorious explosion of right-wing loathing and crusade of animosity towards anything and anyone not white and not conservative. Palin, like Trump, was unafraid to say in public what the party establishment and base sincerely believed, and although they lost the election, they found an effective tool to incite a virulent base ready to answer the call to action against the rest of the nation they considered un-American; minorities, immigrants, and non-conservatives; something the party elite embraced to take control of Congress and the majority of states in just a few short years. It was not just Palin; the entire party was, and still are, using mean-spirited attempts to delegitimize President Obama and his supporters as not real Americans because they are Americans who are not rich and not white. When the President took office, that hate-mongering intensified to epic proportions and the party elite that is now anguished over Trump were instrumental in fueling support for Republican obstruction that has always been enabled by sheer hatred for the other. It is why Trumps promise to excise the other, no matter what kind of other, from America sounds reasonable to the GOP base that support Trump in droves. It is reasonable to assume that the people supporting Trump do so in part because he promises to make America great again by clearing America of anyone the GOP claims is not American. Those particular anyones, immigrants, Muslims and minorities are surrogates for President Obama that the Republicans spent the past seven years claiming hates America, is not American, and wants to destroy the nation. In fact, Republican elites claim that the President does not love America, he wants to take America down, and has worked tirelessly to deliberately weaken the United States; a claim Marco Rubio has been making on the campaign trail. Republicans have not just accepted the uncivil discourse Trump uses to great effect, they have encouraged and exploited it; they cannot now claim it is out-of-bounds or untoward just because it is not their candidate of choice using it to great success. As one journalist noted, the GOP raised the expectations of its Obama-detesting base and primed the pump for Trump leaving little wonder that a xenophobic and misogynistic bigot and bully who bashes immigrants and calls for a Muslim ban should now find a receptive audience within the GOPs electorate. The Republican establishment, including its wealthy donor base, have no legitimate right to ever complain about Donald Trumps rise to power any more than they would complain about Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, or any other candidate for the presidency. Every last one of the GOP candidates embrace the hate, anger, and paranoia the establishment cultivated toward whomever they claim is not American, but Trump is unafraid to use it to his own advantage. It is just as likely that Republicans are angry that Trump is reaping the benefits of all their hard work as they are worried he is tarnishing the Republican brand. A brand that is already so dirty and nasty that it is a major mystery why they are terrified of, and oppose, the man who best represents the Republican brand the party elite and their wealthy donors created. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print Republican support for obstructing President Obamas Supreme Court nominee is cracking as top Trump surrogate Gov. Chris Christie (R-NJ) called for hearings to be held on Obamas Supreme Court nominee. Video: Christie said, Thats what Ive always said. I believe its the right thing to do. People can vote up or down however they choose, but hearing should be held. Gov. Christies call for hearings is the opposite position of the presidential candidate that he endorsed last week. At a recent Republican presidential debate, Trump said, I think its up to Mitch McConnell and everybody else to stop it its called delay, delay, delay. Polls show that four incumbent Republican senators in Ohio, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin and New Hampshire are in danger of losing their seats if Mitch McConnell follows through on his plan to obstruct President Obamas Supreme Court nominee. According to The Washington Post, there is historical precedent for President Obamas appointment of a new Supreme Court justice in a presidential election year, The historical record supports that position: 14 presidents have appointed 21 justices during presidential election years. A half-dozen presidents, classic lame ducks, filled Supreme Court seats even though their successors had been elected.Aside from genuine lame ducks, one-third of U.S. presidents appointed justices during presidential election years. A handful were, like Obama, not running for reelection. George Washington, who established precedents that shape the office to this day, declined to run for a third term, but he added an associate justice and a chief justice during the election year of 1796. Republicans are making a losing argument that will cost them control of the Senate in November if they refuse to do their jobs and vote on President Obamas Supreme Court nominee. The pressure is mounting on the GOP, and with each passing day, signs are growing that the Supreme Court fight is unifying Democrats while further fracturing the Republican Party. Facebook Twitter Pinterest Email Print A review of the transcript of Donald Trumps CNN interview revealed that his excuse of a bad earpiece leading him to not disavow the KKK was a lie. Trump tried to throw CNN under the bus on NBCs Today: Trump said, Im sitting in a house in Florida with a very bad earpiece that they gave me, and you could hardly hear what he was saying. But what I heard was various groups, and I dont mind disavowing anybody, and I disavowed David Duke and I disavowed him the day before at a major news conference, which is surprising because he was at the major news conference, CNN was at the major news conference, and they heard me very easily disavow David Duke. Now, I go, and I sit down again, I have a lousy earpiece that is provided by them, and frankly, he talked about groups. He also talked about groups. And I have no problem with disavowing groups, but Id at least like to know who they are. It would be very unfair to disavow a group, Matt, if the group shouldnt be disavowed. I have to know who the groups are. But I disavowed David Duke. Trump tried to blame it all on a bad earpiece, and CNN, but the transcript of the exchange revealed that Trump knew exactly what he was talking about: TAPPER: I want to ask you about the Anti-Defamation League, which this week called on you to publicly condemn unequivocally the racism of former KKK grand wizard David Duke, who recently said that voting against you at this point would be treason to your heritage. Will you unequivocally condemn David Duke and say that you dont want his vote or that of other white supremacists in this election? TRUMP: Well, just so you understand, I dont know anything about David Duke. OK? I dont know anything about what youre even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists. So, I dont know. I dont know, did he endorse me or whats going on, because, you know, I know nothing about David Duke. I know nothing about white supremacists. And so youre asking me a question that Im supposed to be talking about people that I know nothing about. TAPPER: But I guess the question from the Anti-Defamation League is, even if you dont know about their endorsement, there are these groups and individuals endorsing you. Would you just say unequivocally you condemn them and you dont want their support? TRUMP: Well, I have to look at the group. I mean, I dont know what group youre talking about. You wouldnt want me to condemn a group that I know nothing about. I would have to look. If you would send me a list of the groups, I will do research on them. And, certainly, I would disavow if I thought there was something wrong. TAPPER: The Ku Klux Klan? TRUMP: But you may have groups in there that are totally fine, and it would be very unfair. So, give me a list of the groups, and I will let you know. TAPPER: OK. I mean, Im just talking about David Duke and the Ku Klux Klan here, but TRUMP: I dont know any honestly, I dont know David Duke. I dont believe I have ever met him. Im pretty sure I didnt meet him. And I just dont know anything about him. TAPPER: All right. Tapper repeatedly said that he was asking about the KKK, but Trump danced around his question on each occasion. Donald Trump has never been shy before about telling reporters that he cant hear during interviews. Donald Trump knows how television works, so the idea that he would suddenly try to answer questions that he couldnt hear doesnt make any sense. Donald Trumps attempt to blame CNN and a bad earpiece was clearly a lie. Trump depends on free media from the mainstream press to keep his campaign at the top of the polls. The corporate media is more interested in ratings than decency, so there is little doubt that they will continue endlessly give Trump airtime. The bigger issue for Republicans is that Donald Trump is closing in on their presidential nomination. A Trump nomination will not only cost the GOP the 2016 election, but Donald Trump as the Republican standard bearer might be the kill shot that puts down the wounded Republican Party for decades to come. Portfolio English Edition's premium content is available only for subscribers Learn about the hottest news of the day, along with immediate follow-up analyses and 1000's of exclusive articles with full access to the premium content. Register and apply for a 14 days free trial period. While details are murky, the Council for Minnesotans of African Heritage is in the midst of changing its approach in a way that could impact the position of Kolloh Nimley, the lone representative within its Rochester office. Louis Porter, CMAH's executive director, sent a letter to Nimley earlier this month requiring her to "avoid communication (with) constituents and legislators about the Council's legislative agenda for now" so as not to "risk sending mixed messages." Porter was hired in November. Nimley expressed frustration with that order on Monday, but declined further comment. Nimley has become a prominent voice for African-Americans within the Rochester area since being hired in April 2014. Her visibility has increased since last fall after her critical comments of Rochester Public Schools were published in the Post-Bulletin regarding the district's discipline disparity of black students, which remains a hot-button issue within the community. Porter said Monday that his state-funded organization remains committed to serving Rochester, but that "the Council is changing its approach and we're working in different ways." ADVERTISEMENT He declined to say whether Nimley's position would be impacted by any forthcoming changes, citing personnel privacy laws. However, he says her outspoken tone on Rochester's discipline disparity which includes critical comments about Sup. Michael Munoz will not play a role in whatever decision ends up being made. "Her comments on the school district would not play a role in her role with the council," Porter said. While the Legislative session is set to begin March 8, Porter says no timetable has been set to finalize changes within the CMAH. It's unclear if or when Nimley will be allowed to resume communications. "The changes are ongoing and have to do with how the Council operates," Porter said. "It's evolving so there's not really a timeline on that." Nigerias Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, on Monday clarified his role in the controversial payment of N50 billion by MTN Nigeria to the Federal Government towards the settlement of the N780 billion fine imposed on the telecoms firm by the Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC. The minister, who spoke in an exclusive interview with PREMIUM TIMES in Abuja, said his office did not take any illegal decision. The matter is what the office of Attorney-General, as the chief law officer of the federation, is constitutionally vested with the powers to do, as the matter is pending in court, Mr. Malami said. We have not even gotten to the point of negotiation, talk less of entertaining any request for consideration or not. Its too early in the day for anyone to raise concerns that it is not carried along, because there isnt any engagement with anyone, as the point of that engagement is still being considered. NCC had denied knowledge of the negotiations or payment to the federal government of the N50 billion by MTN, although the ministry of communications later admitted that the money had actually been paid. Equally, Minister of Communications, Adebayo Shittu, also denied any role in either negotiating with MTN, directing or receiving the N50 billion from the telecoms firms. He said he was told that negotiations were between MTN and Mr. Malami. The Attorney General, who later called to respond to PREMIUM TIMES inquiry on his role in the matter, said there was no cause for concern about any agency being left behind in the discussions with MTN, as no concrete terms had been negotiated or agreed upon. The position of things is that MTN, through their foreign solicitors, made specific overtures to the office of Attorney General of the Federation seeking audience to discuss things that bordered on the pending case in court. The reaction of the office of Attorney-General was that the Federal Government was not open for any negotiation, not even an audience, until certain good faith gestures were demonstrated. That is how the N50 billion good faith payment came about, and the terms of audience in court in respect of the discontinuance or withdrawal of the pending case in court, he explained. These were terms they agreed upon, and if they do so, then the possibility of an audience would be granted. Mr. Malami said eventually when MTN agreed to discontinue with its case in court and made the good faith payment in return for an audience, it was made clear that it was not in any way intended to create any obligation on the part of NCC, Federal Government or the office of Attorney General concerning the fine. The N50 billion payment was just a demonstration of good faith if they (MTN) wanted to engage in a discussion with government. Despite the withdrawal of the case in court, it was still agreed that there was no formal audience until they commit whatever request they had into writing for consideration, the Attorney-General noted. He said MTN had since made a formal presentation by writing conveying what they wanted to discuss when the audience would eventually be granted, pointing out that the formal request was without an opportunity for MTN to discuss or negotiate anything. The request in writing has been circulated to all stakeholders, namely NCC, ministries of Communications and Finance. Their comments and technical inputs would be required to determine whether there is any room for further negotiation or deliberation on those terms. Even if they were to be given audience, what should they expect, the minister said. On whether the N50 billion would be considered as part of the fine to be paid by MTN, Mr. Malami said it was only equitable or logical, whether there is agreement or not, for the N50 billion to be factored into whatever final payment is made as penalty at the end of negotiation. Officials in the Burundian Capital, Bujumbura, on Monday showed a mass grave to the public for the first time, confirming reports that dozens of people had been buried in such graves since political violence erupted last year in the East African country. The remains of three people were dug up from the grave in Mutakura neighbourhood, an opposition stronghold in the presence of the media. About 30 people are believed to have been buried there, Bujumbura Mayor, Freddy Mbonimpa, said. The grave was believed to date from April or May of 2015, when protests erupted against the announcement by President Pierre Nkurunziza that he would seek a third term in office. Defying the constitutional two-term limit, Nkurunziza won an election boycotted by the opposition in July. More than 400 people have been reported killed in protests, attacks by police and the armed opposition, according to the UN. The previous death tolls however do not include whatever people may be found in mass graves. The government had until now denied the existence of such graves, which had been documented by human rights groups, based on witness accounts and satellite pictures. Police have been accused of burying government opponents in mass graves. But police representatives said the people buried in Mutakura had been killed by the opposition. According to the report, two suspects have been detained. (dpa/NAN) Cross-posted from the Learning the Language blog By Corey Mitchell The U.S. Department of Education is tripling the size of a grant program designed to help Native American students succeed in school. The Native Youth Community Projects will make $17.4 million available to organizations, after awarding $5.3 million in grants to a dozen recipients last year . The education department billed the grant programs expansion as the federal governments latest move in a broad effort to boost the college and career prospects for American Indian and Alaskan Native youth. The department also announced Monday that Acting U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King, Jr. will soon visit South Dakotas Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to meet with tribal leaders. Education Week did in-depth reporting on education on the Pine Ridge reservation in 2013. Seven students on the reservation committed suicide in the span of several months. The department awarded the reservations Pine Ridge School a $218,000 grant in the wake of the suicide cluster . The department did not indicate exactly when King plans to visit Indian Country, where struggles with education are well-documented. More than a third of American Indian children live in poverty, and just two-thirds graduate from high schoolthe lowest of any racial or ethnic demographic group in the nation. Its an eye-opening reality that has drawn the attention of the White House. President Barack Obamas Generation Indigenous (Gen I) initiative, a joint effort by the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of the Interior, seeks to address barriers to success for Native American youth. The Native Youth Community Projects grants are among the efforts designed to support Gen I. Last year, the grant money funded projects in nine states and involved more than 48 schools. Each grant supports an approach chosen by a community partnership led by tribes and local schools. The competitive grant program awards the funds to tribes, schools, and other organizations under the belief theyre best equipped to identify key barriers to and opportunities for improving educational and life outcomes for Native youth and develop and implement strategies designed to address those barriers. The efforts could focus on approaches such as improving preschool programs, adding language immersion classrooms or providing more mental health services. The Native Youth Community Projects are an investment in bringing tribal communities together to change that reality, and dramatically transform the opportunities for Native youth, King said in a statement released by the department. When tribal communities join together around shared goals for Native youth, we will see locally driven solutions coming from leaders who work most closely with students and are best-positioned to lead change. Photo: A school bus travels the remote roads of South Dakotas Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.--Swikar Patel/Education Week Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 . The U.S. Department of Education is tripling the size of a grant program designed to help Native American students succeed in school. The Native Youth Community Projects will make $17.4 million available to organizations, after awarding $5.3 million in grants to a dozen recipients last year . The education department billed the grant programs expansion as the federal governments latest move in a broad effort to boost the college and career prospects for American Indian and Alaskan Native youth. The department also announced Monday that Acting U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King, Jr. will soon visit South Dakotas Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to meet with tribal leaders. Education Week did in-depth reporting on education on the Pine Ridge reservation in 2013. Seven students on the reservation committed suicide in the span of several months. The department awarded the reservations Pine Ridge School a $218,000 grant in the wake of the suicide cluster . The department did not indicate exactly when King plans to visit Indian Country, where struggles with education are well-documented. More than a third of American Indian children live in poverty, and just two-thirds graduate from high schoolthe lowest of any racial or ethnic demographic group in the nation. Its an eye-opening reality that has drawn the attention of the White House. President Barack Obamas Generation Indigenous (Gen I) initiative, a joint effort by the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of the Interior, seeks to address barriers to success for Native American youth. The Native Youth Community Projects grants are among the efforts designed to support Gen I. Last year, the grant money funded projects in nine states and involved more than 48 schools. Each grant supports an approach chosen by a community partnership led by tribes and local schools. The competitive grant program awards the funds to tribes, schools, and other organizations under the belief theyre best equipped to identify key barriers to and opportunities for improving educational and life outcomes for Native youth and develop and implement strategies designed to address those barriers. The efforts could focus on approaches such as improving preschool programs, adding language immersion classrooms or providing more mental health services. The Native Youth Community Projects are an investment in bringing tribal communities together to change that reality, and dramatically transform the opportunities for Native youth, King said in a statement released by the department. When tribal communities join together around shared goals for Native youth, we will see locally driven solutions coming from leaders who work most closely with students and are best-positioned to lead change. Photo: A school bus travels the remote roads of South Dakotas Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.--Swikar Patel/Education Week Follow us on Twitter at @PoliticsK12 . Leading politicians in Denmark, on Monday, reacted with anger over remarks by an Imam who argued that adulterers should be stoned, citing sharia law. The Imam, Abu Ismail, said that a virgin who committed adultery should be whipped. He added that those who abandoned their religion should be executed, according to clips released by Danish broadcaster TV2. The remarks were made at a lecture on religious laws to a group of women at a mosque in the western city of Aarhus, which was secretly recorded by TV2 for an upcoming documentary. Aarhus police said it was investigating if charges could be brought over the remarks. Its awful that there are people in Denmark who preach such things, it doesnt belong here, said Inger Stojberg, Minister for Immigration and Integration. Stojberg said she would like to close the Grimhoj mosque where Ismail is active, but said it may remain open in order to keep track of similar extremists. The head of the Grimhoj mosque, Oussama El-Saadi, said that the mosque followed Danish laws, and the imams answers concerned what he knew about sharia and were in response to questions from TV2s spy. The remarks prompted angry comments from members of the right-wing populist Danish Peoples Party, Conservatives and the Social Democrats. Ismail has already been involved in several controversies, and was fined by a German court after he called for the killing of Zionist Jews during a 2014 visit to a Berlin mosque. Trine Bramsen, legal affairs spokeswoman of the Social Democrats, said Stojberg and Justice Minister Soren Pind would be invited to the parliaments Legal Affairs Committee to discuss measures to act against extremist views. We want answers from the government. The mosque can be shut, but if the imam moves to another mosque that really doesnt help, she said. The mosque is part of a programme launched some years ago in Aarhus, aimed at dissuading youths from joining radical groups. (dpa/NAN) The Majority Leader of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Adeyinka Mafe, has accused the state police command of trying to blackmail him with false allegations. Mr. Mafe was recently accused by the Ogun Police spokesperson, Muyiwa Adejobi, of being under investigation in 15 different criminal cases. The lawmaker dared the police on Sunday, saying he was ready for prosecution but alleged that he was being blackmailed for raising corruption allegations at a senior police officer in the command. Mr. Mafe had on the Assembly floor on Tuesday alleged that the Divisional Police Officer in charge of Sagamu, John Mark, was extorting residents, He, therefore, called for probe of the senior police officer. In its reaction to the lawmakers allegation, the police, through Mr. Adejobi, said Mr. Mafe had no moral justification to raise such issues as he has about 15 criminal and cult-related cases linked to him. Mr. Adejobi also absolved the Sagamu DPO of any wrongdoing. On Sunday, the lawmaker said he had about 50 petitions against Mr. Mark. I dont want to sound like I alleged the DPO (did something wrong), he said. I have in my possession series of petitions from victims of extortion, criminal extortions I called them, because these are innocent people that would be arrested unlawfully and money would be demanded from them and until they pay those monies they wouldnt be allowed to go home. He also hinted that the Assembly might summon the Ogun Commissioner of Police, Abdulmajid Ali, and Mr. Adejobi on the alleged criminal cases against him. The majority leader queried the police command for waiting until he accused a senior police officer before it came up with allegations against him. It baffles me that the PPRO and CP himself will wait until now that I am accusing one of the unprofessional policemen that I have ever met in my life, CSP John Mark, before coming out with this allegation of 15 criminal cases they claimed to be investigating. I want to urge and challenge them to speed up the investigation, so that they can take me to court. I am a lawyer and I am ready to meet them in court. I am not shy about going to court. I will be very happy to defend myself if the need be but I want to assure you and the people of my constituency that the PPRO is just a shameless liar. Hes just being aggrieved of some personal issue. If he puts equal amount of energy into investigating the DPO of Sagamu, like hes doing to attack my person, hes going to find out the issue and hes going to do a lot of service to the people of Sagamu. As I speak, we have over 50 petitions and these people are ready to come out. In fact the Honourable from Sagamu constituency II was informing the Speaker that the DPO has a PoS machine with which he collects bribe and I am putting this on record quoting Hon. Soyebo because hes from Sagamu as myself and I think that is grievous. The lawmaker expressed dismay that the Ogun Police, (whose leadership include the Commissioner of Police and the Public Relations Officer), who were at his (Mr. Mafes) birthday celebration a fortnight ago would associate with someone being investigated for criminal activities. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC, has arraigned the immediate past Interior Minister, Abba Moro, on an 11-count charge bordering on obtaining by false pretence, procurement fraud and money laundering. Mr. Moro was arraigned before Justice Anwuli Chikere of the Federal High Court, Abuja, alongside three others for their roles in the botched March 15, 2014 immigration recruitment exercise that killed no fewer than 20 job seekers across the country, the News Agency of Nigeria reported. His co-accused are: permanent secretary of the ministry at the time, Anastasia Daniel-Nwobia; a deputy director in the ministry, F. O Alayebami; one Mahmood Ahmadu (at large), and the contracting firm given the recruitment job, Drexel Tech Nigeria Ltd. The EFCC accused the defendants of defrauding 676,675 Nigerian applicants of N676,675,000 (Six Hundred and Seventy Six Million, Six Hundred and Seventy Five Thousand Naira). Each of the 676,675 applicants were charged N1,000 each for the participating in the recruitment exercise. The anti-graft agency is also accusing the defendants of flouting the Public Procurement Act, No. 65 of 2007 in the award of the contract for the organisation of the recruitment test to Drexel Tech Nigeria Ltd. The EFCC said Drexel EFCC had no prior advertisement and no needs assessment and procurement plan was carried out before the contract was awarded. According to the anti-graft agency, the contract was awarded through selective tendering procedure by invitation of 4 (Four) firms without seeking the approval of the Bureau for Public Procurement, contrary to sections 40, 42 and 43 of the Public Procurement Act, No. 65 of 2007 and punishable under section 58 of the same act. Drexel is also alleged to be unregistered and had no legal capacity to enter into the said contract. There is also said to be no budgetary provision for the exercise in the 2014 Federal Capital budget hence the applicants were made to bear the responsibility of funding the project without approval of the Board contrary to section 22(5) of the Independent Corrupt Practices and other Related Offences Act 2000, the charge said. Justice Chikere ordered that the former minister should be remanded in Kuje prison, Abuja, while Mrs. Daniel-Nwobia was released on administrative bail, according to Daily Trust. The judge adjourned the case to March 2 for hearing of Mr. Abba Moros bail application. Ruling in the case of unlawful arrest brought by Rickey Tarfa, SAN, against the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and three others persons, which was billed for Monday, suffered a setback sequel to the applicants attempt to introduce new evidence. Mr. Tarfa had approached the court asking it to award N2.5 billion as damages against the EFCC over his arrest and detention. At the last court hearing, Justice Mohammed Idris of the Federal High Court, Lagos, adjourned to today (Monday, February 29, 2016) for judgment after listening to the submissions of counsel. Mr. Tarfa had in an affidavit by one John Olusegun Odubela, who is the head of Chambers in the firm of Messrs Rickey Tarfa & Co, admitted that the applicant gave the sum of Two Hundred and Twenty Five Thousand Naira Only (N225,000) to Justice M.N Yunusa of the Federal High Court. He has now approached the court for an order granting him leave to re-open and adduce further evidence that the said Justice M. N. Yunusa is Mr. Mohammed Awwal Yunusa, a former employee in Tarfas chambers, as the beneficiary of the N225, 000. Tarfa, SAN, had stated in his earlier affidavit That it was a common knowledge in legal circles that the Honourable Justice M.N Yunusa lost his father in-law Alhaji Audi Garba Damasa on 28th December 2013 in Maiduguri and travelled there to attend to the funeral rites. That the applicant and some friends of the Honourable Justice M.N Yunusa made some donations towards the said funeral rites and to commiserate with the Judge since they could not physically go and commiserate with him in Maiduguri where he was and stayed for a while. That the contributed monies amounted to Two Hundred and Twenty Five Thousand (N225,000) which sum was given to the applicant with the responsibility to get same across to the bereaved Judge. That the applicant consequently made arrangements to forward the sum of N225,000. That I know as a fact that it is common in Nigeria for friends and well-wishers to contribute gifts in cash and kind to people who are celebrating or bereaved. Mr. Tarfa has now made a u-turn. In an amended affidavit, he said, That the Applicant did not in paragraphs 35, 36, 37, 38, & 39 of the Applicants further affidavit deposed to on 19th February, 2016 stated that the sum of N225,000 was paid to Honourable Justice M. N. Yunusa of this Honourable Court. That the sum of N225,000 was paid to the Applicants former staff, M. A. Yunusa Esq and it is necessary to adduce further evidence by allowing the use of further and better affidavit of Mr. Mohammed Awwal Yunusa in support of the application for enforcement of fundamental rights who owns the account that was said to have been owned by Honourable Justice M. N. Yunusa, In his counter affidavit, the EFCC counsel, Wahab Shittu, said the grounds upon which the applicant was bringing the application is blatant falsehood and an afterthought. He said the applicants earlier affidavit cannot be twisted or misrepresented in any way whatsoever. Mr. Shittu said, That paragraph 10 of the affidavit in support stands logic on its heads and in response thereto paragraphs 37 and 38 of the further affidavit of the applicant showing clearly that the applicant averred that the sum of N225,000 (Two hundred and twenty five Naira) was paid directly to Honourable Justice M. N. Yunusa He also stated that paragraph 11 of the affidavit in support was filled with blatant falsehood by claiming that the cheque in the sum of N225,000 annexed as exhibit E is the affidavit of one Mohammed Awwal Yunusa dated 23rd Day of February, 2016 is in the name of Mohammed Awwal and not Mohammed Awwal Yunusa. Mr. Shittu said the applicants new position that this was not what he said was a gross misrepresentation and an attempt to mislead the court. The EFCC counsel also drew the courts attention to the fact that Mr. Tarfa repeatedly wrote that he was 43 years in all the pages of his extra-judicial statement with the EFCC whereas the third edition of the A Compendium of Senior Advocates of Nigeria shows that he was born on February 23, 1962, making him 54 years. After listening to the arguments of the two parties Justice Idris adjourned the matter to March for ruling on the new application. The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, on Monday confirmed the Federal Government received N50 billion from MTN Nigeria towards the settlement of the N780 billion fine imposed on the telecoms firm. The confirmation came as the Minister of Communication, Adebayo Shittu, denied any role in either negotiating with MTN or directing or receiving the N50 billion from the company. MTN said last week it had withdrawn its lawsuit challenging the fine, and that it had paid N50 billion to the government. NCC denied knowledge of the negotiations or payment, while ministry of communications admitted the money had been paid. The disclosure that the ministry received the payment without the knowledge of the NCC angered many Nigerians. But the minister, Mr. Shittu, said he was told that negotiations took place between MTN and the Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, but that he was never involved. I have not negotiated with anybody, Mr. Shittu told PREMIUM TIMES exclusively on Monday. Remember I was not yet a minister when the matter started. At no time was any file ever brought to me on the matter even after my resumption. The MTN went to court to buy time, but then realized that they were not likely to win in court, and now they are anxious to negotiate. They only told me unofficially that they were withdrawing the case; that they had gone to the Attorney General of the Federation who, they said, asked them to make some down payment for any negotiation to begin. The minister, who insisted that his ministry played no role in any negotiation with MTN, said all the information about what transpired were reported to him by top officials of MTN, whom he said he had no reason to disbelieve. The NCC on Monday said the Federal Government received the money following a correspondence on the transaction from the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr. Malami. The Nigerian Communications Commission, NCC, wishes to affirm Federal Governments receipt of the sum of N50,000,000,000 (Fifty Billion Naira Only) towards settlement of the fine imposed on MTN Nigeria Communications Ltd by the Commission, and its withdrawal of Suit No FHC/1923/2015 MTN Vs. NCC & HAGF, the spokesperson for NCC, Tony Ojobo, said in a statement. Mr. Ojobo, who said the official information to the Commission from the Attorney General came only on February 29, 2016, explained that the receipt of the amount, and withdrawal of the suit, were without prejudice to the final decision of government on the terms of payment being proposed by the company. The amount is an unconditional good faith payment, on the basis that this sum would be applied towards eventual settlement agreement for payment of the fine imposed by the Commission where the on-going negotiations between the Federal Government and the company reach a final resolution, Mr. Ojobo explained. Apparently confirming the non-involvement of the commission in the deal, the NCC spokesperson explained that the Federal Governments team for the negotiations was led by the Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami, while MTN team was led by former U.S Attorney General, and Head of Covington & Burling LLP, Washington DC, Eric Holder, Jr. On the basis of the out-of-court settlement, Mr. Ojobo said the Federal Governments team would deliberate on the merits and demerits of the terms of payment of the fine imposed on MTN by the Commission for its failure to deactivate 5.1 million invalid SIM cards on its network. The Attorney General and Minister of Justice, Mr. Malami, did not respond to calls to his mobile phone on Monday. He did not also respond to text message. A teenager, who was kidnapped from Bayelsa State to Kano, Ese Oruru, said on Monday she was not interested in reuniting with her family, claiming she was not abducted from her home. In an exclusive audio recording obtained by PREMIUM TIMES on Monday, the girl also said she came to Kano to convert to Islam. My name is Aisha Chuwas. I am 17-year-old. I came here to be a Muslim and I will stay here, she said in the audio. The recording appeared a conversation between Miss Oruru and a police interrogator in Kano. A human rights lawyer, Huwaila Mohammed, who was given access to the girl at the Zonal Police Headquarters in Kano, said upon interrogation, she understood the girl was never forced to convert to Islam. I was there to protect her rights, Ms. Mohammed said. When I approached her initially, she refused to talk to me. Later she opened up to me. She is very defiant. She told me she was born in February 1999. I personally wanted her to reunite with her family, but surprisingly she asked me to tell her mother that she will never return to Bayelsa. The police should ensure that she is protected and returned to her family. She is still not matured enough to take such a weighty decision without parental consent. Ms. Mohammed, who also spoke with Miss Orurus lover, Yunusa Yellow, said upon interrogation, she established that he is 18-year-old man not anywhere above 20. I was surprised when I saw a very small boy. He is just 18-year old. I was enraged thinking that it was an old man involved in the saga. From the way I see it, they eloped not because of religion but love, she said. But Miss Oruru is a minor, and under Nigerian law, she is not considered matured enough to take a decision to convert to another religion and leave her parents. In his reaction, the emir of Kano denied reports that he was holding Miss Oruru. The emir said on Monday that since September last year, the emirate council handed her over to AIG Zone 1, Tambari Yabo, for onward transportation to her family in Bayelsa. He said the district head of Kura brought the case to the palace when Mr. Yunusa presented Ms. Oruru to the district office, seeking approval to marry her. The emirs Chief of Staff, Munir Sanusi, further shed lights on the matter, saying the emir ordered that she be return to her family as she was too young to take such decision. The emir attached the girl with the palace emissary, Jakadan Mallam, and one of her relatives to go to the police headquarters, Mr. Sanusi said. Since she alleged threats from members of his family, we involved the police to provide security. Meanwhile, the Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson, said he was on top of the situation as he had spoken to his Kano State counterpart, Abdullahi Ganduje, on the matter. The governors Special Adviser on Media, Francis Agbo, said Mr. Seriake had discussed the matter with Mr. Ganduje on several occasions to ensure a faster resolution of the crisis. PREMIUM TIMES learnt that Miss Orurus kidnapper has been arrested and is being detained at the Zone 1 Police Headquarters, Kano. The spokesman for the zonal police office, Rabilu Ringim, could not be reached to comment for this story. Mr. Ringim, an assistant superintendent of police, did not answer or return multiple calls and text message. Audio recording of Miss Oruru to come shortly A senior Nigerian lawyer, Femi Falana, has petitioned the Nigerian Army authorities demanding the release of Enitan Ransome-Kuti, the former Commander of the Multi National Joint Task Force, who was convicted by a military court martial and sentenced to six months imprisonment. In a letter to the Chief of Army Staff, Mr. Falana said his client was still held in prison custody despite completing his jail term. Mr. Ransome-Kuti, a Brigadier-General, was sentenced by a Special Court Martial on October 15, 2015, for alleged offences during the war against Boko Haram. According to the army court martial, Mr. Ransome-Kuti was awarded the following punishments: The first count charge, which was cowardly behaviour was struck out but he was found guilty on count charge number two which was failure to perform military duties and was dismissed from the Nigerian Army. He was equally found guilty on count charge number 3 which was miscellaneous offences relating to service property and was awarded six months imprisonment. Mr. Falana insisted his client was unjustly convicted by the court martial. As the findings of the Special Court Martial are subject to the confirmation of the appropriate authority we made a strong representation to the Army Council on behalf of our client, Mr. Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, stated in the petition dated February 26. By letter dated 19 October, 2015, we also requested the Authorities of the Nigerian Army to release our client from military custody pending the determination of the appeal which he intended to file against the unjust findings of the Special Court Martial which convicted him of war related crimes and sentenced him to 6-month imprisonment and dismissal from the Nigerian Army. Mr. Ransome-Kuti, who was the leader of the Multi National Joint Task Force, was blamed after Boko Haram insurgents overran Baga on January 3 last year. After his conviction and imprisonment, Mr. Falana requested for Mr. Ransome-Kutis release pending the determination of his appeal, a request that was turned down by the military authorities. Mr. Falana said the armys refusal was a violation of Section 160 of the Armed Forces Act (Cap A20) Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004. Thus, you caused our client to serve the 6-month prison term without the confirmation of the findings of the Special Court Martial by the Army Council, he said. As if that was not enough, you have ignored our demand for the release of our client since he completed the 6-month prison term on February 15, 2016. In our letter dated February 12, 2016 on the subject matter, we had pointed out that our client ought to have spent 4 calendar months in custody by virtue of Regulations 54 and 55 of the Prisons Regulations made pursuant to the Prisons Act (CAP. P29) Laws of the Federation of Nigeria, 2004 which provides that every convict is entitled to a remission of one third of the sentence imposed by a court. Mr. Falana further stated that the continued detention of Mr. Ransome-Kuti was unjustified under the Nigerian Constitution and the Armed Forces Act. We are therefore compelled to request you to use your good offices to ensure that our client is released from unjust and illegal incarceration forthwith, he said. Mr. Falana said he would seek redress at the Federal High Court if the army authorities fail or refuse the immediate release of Mr. Ransome-Kuti. The Shiite movement in Nigeria on Monday said it would not appear before a Judicial Commission of Inquiry set up by Kaduna State government to investigate the killing of the groups members, until its leader, Ibrahim El-zakzaky, is released unconditionally. A clash between members of the movement and the Nigerian Army on December 12 and 13 left hundreds of Shiites dead. The clash occurred when the convoy of the countrys Chief of Army Staff, Tukur Buratai, was denied passage through the city of Zaria in Kaduna State. In December, the movement released a list of more than 700 people it claimed were either missing or dead in the December clash. The group had cited lopsidedness in the composition of the panel and failure to release the leader of the movement, Ibrahim El-Zakzaky, and other detainees and some of the reasons it is boycotting the panel sittings. The chairman of the commission of inquiry, Lawal Muhammad, on Monday, adjourned the sitting till March 7 for Mr. El-Zakzaky to appear before it. Speaking at a press briefing, a member of the movement, Abdulhamid Bello, argued that Mr. El-Zakzaky should not be held incommunicado while the commission was sitting. The group further called for the re-constitution of the panel, saying Kaduna State government, being an aggressor in the incident, should not deny the movement representation in the commission. The movement declined to participate and have any further dealings with the judicial commission of inquiry and would consult and direct its lawyers on the next course of action in search of justice in this matter, he added. By Ebuka Onyeji The immediate past president of the Senate, David Mark, has stated that his victory at the Benue South rerun election is a renewed mandate to continue to serve God and humanity without blemish. According to a statement released and signed by Paul Mumeh, the media assistant to David Mark, the senator said this when he received his certificate of return at the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) headquarters on Monday in Abuja. For the confidence, trust and love for me, I will continue to serve honestly with all my heart. My actions will be guided always with the fear of God. My election is unique. I hold this certificate in trust and for service to my people and Nigerians alike. I will serve honestly and with the fear of God, he said. Handing over the certificate to Mr. Mark, INEC national commissioner, Lawrence Nwuruku, assisted by his colleague, Solomon Soyebi, said the certificate was a confirmation that he won the Benue South Senatorial rerun election according to the rules and regulations guiding the conduct of elections. Mr. Mark praised INEC for a good job so far but called for improvement in future polls. He said the electioneering process should be less cumbersome to enable more qualified Nigerians participate. Mr. Mark is the only Nigerian till the date who has contested Senatorial election six times, won six times and received certificate of return six times. Below is a transcript of a conversation between what appeared an unnamed police interrogator and abducted Bayelsa teenager, Ese Oruru. The exchanges took place at the premises of the Zone 1 Police Headquarters in Kano, on Monday. The recording was exclusively obtained by PREMIUM TIMES on Monday afternoon. In the recording, Miss Oruru was heard saying she did not want to return to her home in Bayelsa, a claim a lawyer said should be disregarded because she is still a minor. Kano-based human rights lawyer, Huwaila Mohammed, said the police should ensure that she is protected and returned to her family. She is still not matured enough to take such a weighty decision without parental consent, Ms. Mohammed said. Read our earlier report on Miss Orurus claims here READ FULL TRANSCRIPT BELOW Interrogator: Please what is your name? Ese Oruru: My name is Aisha Chuwas? Interrogator: From where are you here (sic), come Kano? Ese Oruru: From Bayelsa State. Interrogator: How old are you? Ese Oruru: I am 17 years old. Interrogator: Ok, what are you doing here in Kano now? Ese Oruru: I am not doing anything but I came here to be a Muslim and I will stay here. Interrogator: In your own, own, own choice or. Ese Oruru: Silence Interrogator: Ok, Aisha your parent tell us you are (sic) abducted from Bayelsa. Its true? Ese Oruru: No. I am not (sic) abducted by anybody. Interrogator: Ok. Tell us the truth. Ese Oruru: I am (sic) not abducted by anybody, I came here on my own interest. Nobody forced me to be a Muslim. Interrogator: Thats all Ese Oruru: Yes Interrogator: Ok, Thank you Aisha. As school choice expands, parents in many U.S. cities are facing a vastly different education landscape than the one they grew up in and navigating the array of options can be downright baffling for many of themespecially those with less education or children who have special needs . Charter schools make up over 20 percent of schools in 45 U.S. districts , and the sector is growing. Voucher programs are expanding nationally , putting private school tuition in reach for more families. There are also options that have been around for decades, such as magnet schools, and brand new arrivals to the education buffet, like micro schools . And, of course, theres always the neighborhood district school to consider, or even the district school in another neighborhood for parents in areas that allow for interdistrict choice. Some cities are now trying to simplify the task of school choice by creating a single application and enrollment system for both district and charter schools, as I wrote for a recent article in Education Week . But the truth is, with the freedom to choose a school comes a lot more work (a tradeoff, I should point out, some research has shown many parents are happy to make). So, I decided to reach out to a couple of school choice consultants I interviewed for a story I did on this topic this time last year: Laura Barr, founder of e.Merging , a school consultant business in Denver, and E.V. Downey, who runs the D.C.-based Downey School Consulting , to get some pointers from them on how to go about making this important decision. How to Pick a School: Do Research, Meet Deadlines: Attend open houses, tours, and school community events and dig into the educational philosophies on school websites, Barr recommended in an email. Its great to see school from different view points, she said while also warning to be on time with any application materials. Many schools simply are not flexible with late applications. Be Detail Oriented: When you do go visit a school, Downey recommended going when classes are in session and keeping an eye out for details beyond the teaching, such as whether the school administration takes pride in its facilitiesthey dont have to be fancy, but are they welcoming and clean? Consider Location: But Downey says the most important advice she gives parents is to thoroughly consider the logistics of getting their children to school every day. Attending an arts-focused school on the other side of town might seem like a good idea in theory, but may not make families happy in reality when their commute to school requires sacrificing family time at home. I talk to a lot of clients about how a school in their neighborhood could be a better answer, especially in the younger years, for work-life-school balance, said Downey. I do definitely meet with a lot of people who have not thought that piece of the puzzle through. Dont Play Games: If you live in one of the handful of cities that have one of those single-enrollment systems I mentioned earlier Denver, New Orleans, Newark, or D.C. (and potentially Boston and Oakland )dont try to trick the computer system, Barr said. In a common-enrollment system, also called single or universal enrollment, families fill out a list of their top choices, and a computer uses an algorithm to match students to schools based on family preferences and available seats. Sometimes parents think theyll be more likely to get their favorite school if they dont rank it first on their list, or only put down their top pick, which can actually hurt their chances of getting a school they want. Rank your schools in the order of preference, Barr said. Dont try to game the system. Im sure theres lots of other good pointers out there on how to choose a school, so if youre a parent, teacher, school choice consultant, or interested citizen with advice to share, please leave it in the comments section below. Related stories: The National Chairman of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ali Modu Sheriff, says the party is putting its house in order to achieve victory in future elections. Mr. Sheriff made the remarks when he received a delegation of PDP in Benue State led by its chairman, Agbo Emmanuel, in Abuja on Monday. He said by the time the party reconciled with its aggrieved members, it would make the desire attainable. Winning rerun election at this time in Benue state is very important to us in PDP because we always say that Benue State is for PDP. It is our in-house problem that created what made us to lose election and we are putting our house in order. I have promised to talk with everybody to come back to enable us to rebuild the party so that we can work as a team, Mr. Sheriff said. He commended the leadership and members of the party in Benue over the re-election of David Mark in the Benue South Senatorial rerun election. The victory of Mark is a clear demonstration that Benue is for PDP. He also commended them for not taking the laws into their hands on the ongoing attack in some parts of the state. He said he would present their matter to the Inspector General of Police and other security agencies for appropriate action. As a party, we will be law-abiding but our rights should not be taken for granted; for us leaders here, we will follow it up to make sure that none of our members are intimidated for nothing. Earlier, Mr. Emmanuel said the delegation was at the party headquarters to brief Mr. Sheriff on the state of PDP in Benue state. Mr. Emmanuel stated that the state chapter of the party was doing well as demonstrated by the partys candidate Mr. Marks victory in the Benue South Senatorial rerun elections. He, however, said that the party faced serious challenge following the victory of Mark in the last re-run. Several members of our party were beaten, severely injured and maimed while also having their properties worth millions of naira destroyed. It is noteworthy that in spite of these acts of brigandage, the people of Benue South stood their ground and voted massively to elect Senator David Mark as their Senator. The chairman added however that the opposition All Progressives Congress had refused to accept defeat. Benue had also witnessed massive attacks on several communities in Agatu Local Government Area. This resulted in the loss of hundreds of lives and property worth billions of naira. We have reason to believe that this recent attack on the Agatu people was punishment for their resolve to vote overwhelmingly for Sen. Mark. He called on Mr. Sheriff to use his good offices to call attention of the Federal Government and the international community to the plight of people of the Benue South Senatorial District. (NAN) The younger sister of Bayelsa State governor, Seriake Dickson, has been rescued by security agencies in the state after being kidnapped and held captive for more than two months. Nancy Dickson, 26, is said to have been rescued on Sunday evening from her abductors, according to a statement issued on Monday by Governor Dicksons Chief Press Secretary, Daniel Iworiso-Markson. The statement, which did not give details of the rescue operation, said no ransom was paid. Mr. Iworiso-Markson said that, some of the kidnappers took to their heels while others were apprehended following a tip-off on their hideouts. The kidnappers were rattled and overwhelmed to forcefully surrender their kidnapped victim, following intense pressure mounted by the security agencies to track down the kidnappers. Mr. Iworiso-Markson said Mr. Dickson has asked the people of Bayelsa not to succumb to kidnappers demands for ransom. He said Mr. Dickson has assured that the government was going to amend the Bayelsa State Secret Cult, Kidnapping and other Related Offences Prohibition Bill 2012 to proscribe payment of ransom in the state. Mr. Dickson urged the people to take a cue from his personal experience with kidnappers when his aged mother was abducted in 2009 and efforts were made to secure her release without payment of ransom. Mr. Dickson said as part of efforts to stem criminal activities in the state, a comprehensive security strategy would be launched soon to boost governments policy of zero tolerance on crime. The governor therefore advised anyone or group of persons who indulge in the unwholesome practice to turn a new leaf as the full weight of the law would be brought to bear on any culprit. Lassa fever has claimed the life of a 10-year-old boy in Ebonyi State. The death is the second confirmed case recorded in the state since the recent outbreak across the country. The commissioner for Health, Daniel Umezuruike, confirmed the death. He said the victim died after he was discharged from the Federal Teaching Hospital Abakaliki. The commissioner described the incident as unfortunate, adding that the deceased was a day student of one of the primary schools in the state and hailed from Igbeagu, in Izzi Local Government Area. Dr. Umezuruike said the deceaseds parents were based in Abuja, but that the report before them did not show that the deceased traveled to meet with his parents in recent times. He also explained that the 10 year-old was not rushed to the hospital immediately he became sick. According to him the deceased responded to treatment at first and as such, the hospital discharged him. But unfortunately, he died the same day he was discharged. His case was surprising because the hospital thought he was all right after being treated, but before he was discharged we had already taken his sample which came out positive, he said. Dr. Umezuruike also confirmed that the case was the second Lassa case recorded in the state. The first person was a student of Ebonyi State University and now the 10 year-old, he said. He pointed out however that his ministry had embarked on surveillance and contact-tracing of close associates of the last victim to enable them curtail the spread of the deceased in the state. ( Read 4597 Times) IIM Udaipur under the banner of Potpourri The literary and debating club successfully hosted The Udaipur Leap-day LitFest 2016(ULLF), IIMUs annual literature festival at the institute. This is the fourth such edition of the event, held on 28th of February, 2016.ULLF is an event which aims at promoting love for reading and writing amongst IIMU students and the Udaipur Community. Started in 2013, ULLF is an annual event that aims to bring together connoisseurs of literature and arts to share their views, and provide an opportunity to students and residents of Udaipur to interact with eminent personalities. This annual event is organized on every February 28, with a special two-day festival during leap years.The event aimed at celebrating the charming order that takes shape in the turbulent journey of an artist. Apart from prominent authors, this years festival featured artists, directors, poets, dancersand journalists who shared their perspectives the many facets of art as a way of expressing the unspoken.The event began with the director of the institute, Prof.Janat Shah, inviting the speakers for the lamp lighting ceremony followed by a brief video about Udaipur. The first speaker to grace the stage was world renowned Bharatnatyam and Yoga virtuoso Mr. NavtejJohar. Mr. Johar gave an illuminating speech on the perception of classical dance in modern times and how the intertwining of various ideologies has helped redefine modern Yoga. He spoke on concepts of Sankhya and gave strong arguments to dispel the whim that concepts such as materialism, rationalism etc. are alien to Indians. He was critical of the present scenario of dance and described it as show and tell and hence in a shambolic state. His insights regarding the significance of our religious scriptures to help shape the dance of today was certainly an eye opener and a significant learning for the audience.The next speaker to grace the dais was eminent director BejoyNambiar, famous for critical and commercial successes such as Wazir and Shaitaan. His was a freewheeling speech regarding the changing cinema landscape of the country and how movies based on biopics etc. are receiving recognition. He gave a detailed account of his journeythrough theatre and to mainstream cinema. A very heart-warming moment was when he acknowledged the role of his mother, who was present in the audience, as his inspiration and pillar of support throughout his journey. His speech was interspersed with various clips from celebrated movies from around the world based on which he provided insights into the psyche of directors during those clips. He also conveyed an extremely important message by requesting the audience to support content driven cinema to develop a culture of similar movies in the industry.Prominent journalist, Mr. Hridayesh Joshi was the next speaker and his account of the several problems plaguing people in conflict areas of the country such as North East, Bastar etc. made the audience hang onto every word of his speech and was certainly an eye opener for everyone. He stressed on the importance of the role of the media and was a strong exponent of how reporters should target news related to important issues. He delivered a profound message for the students present that conflict management is an important area of study for todays business managers and that each of us had a duty to be aware of such events.Ms. Margie Sastry, one of the authors of the famous Amar Chitra Katha and Tinkle series, explained the rationale behind Amar Chitra Katha and how it proved to be a significant medium for educating Indian children regarding Indian mythology. Shenot only explained how mythology like Mahabharata and historical figures like Nehru make for excellent comic props but also spoke regarding the general misconception surrounding comics. She also spoke about her illustrations of people from all walks of life, starting from scientists of the early 1900s to Kalpana Chawla.MsShefaliBhushan is a painter, director and writer who made her directorial debut with the musical Jugni. She has also worked relentlessly to promote folk music in India in association with the website Beats of India. She spoke about how it is difficult to find folk musicians in this day and age when everything is capital intensive. The same went for budding directors who wanted to make a movie with an alternative idea with lesser known actors. She spoke of the principles of the film industry where a movie starring a famous actor would be funded much more easily. Ms. Bhushan also showed the audience scenes from her movie which really instilled a sense of intrigue in them. The movie presents an alternative idea of a mother-son relationship which shows a sense of competition between them.The final speaker of the day was Divya Prakash Dubey who is an eminent Hindi author and has written screenplays for various short movies. Mr. Dubey is a young Indian author who has to his credit the books "Terms and Conditions apply" and "Masala Chay". He harbours a passion for both Hindi and English Literature and writes poems, stories to go on air, and also screenplays for short films. He spoke about his life and how different instances in his life led him to eventually pursue his passion of writing. Mr. Dubeys chat ended with a candid discussion on reasons why Hindi literature has still not gained popularity in India.The event ended with the vote of thanks to the guests and audiences. Udaipurs LeapDayLitFest was a grand success and was applauded by the speakers and audience alike with everyone in attendance eagerly looking forward to the next edition. Lauren Shapiro was admitted to Shore Medical Center in the early afternoon in 2000 as she went into labor for the birth of her twin boys. Sometime in the middle of the chaos, she and Vincent Sacco realized their children were going to have a birthday on Feb. 29. We looked at each other and said, Are we really going to have these kids on leap day? Shapiro said. We asked, cant we wait one more day? But the doctor said no, we have to get them out. Identical twins Vincent and Dominic Sacco were born on a millennial leap day, which only happens about once every four centuries. They share a birthday that only appears on the calendar every four years. Like other South Jersey leapers, or leaping babies, they say todays leap day celebrations will feel different. My friends will probably say, Happy fourth birthday, or say, Arent you only 4? Vincent Sacco said. The 16-year-old brothers, of Egg Harbor Township, are used to the ribbing they get from friends and family about their birthday. Since they can only celebrate on the actual date of their birth every four years, some people say theyre only turning 4 years old. Lauren Shapiro said sometimes family members are more excited about the boys Feb. 29 birthday than they are themselves. When she was pregnant with the twins, her doctor gave her a due date of April 1, April Fools Day. She and her doctor knew the boys would probably come earlier, which is common for twins. People had bets on when we were going to have them, Shapiro said, laughing. People said wed have them on leap day, but now its really cool. We laugh about it, and the kids use it as excuse sometimes. They say, We cant do that, were only 3 years old. While theyre only celebrating their birthday on Feb. 29 for the fourth time, Stockton University professor Yitzhak Sharon will be attending a party for his 20th birthday on which he will turn 80 years old. The physics and Jewish studies teacher said that although his leap day birthday gets a lot of attention these days, that wasnt always the case. Sharon was born in Tel Aviv, Israel in 1936. While living there, he and his family followed the Jewish lunar calendar, which does not recognize Feb. 29 as a leap day. When he came to America at 12 years old, he realized he would have to celebrate his birthday a little differently. Before then, I didnt realize there was anything unusual about Feb. 29, because we didnt celebrate that in Israel, he said. On non-leap years, Sharon celebrates his birthday with family and friends on March 1, but every four years, they do something special. When he celebrated his 16th leap year birthday, friends and colleagues at Stockton threw him a Sweet 16 party, much to everyones amusement. And how many people can say they are younger than their children and the same age as their college students? Sharon finds the humor in both, especially about his age and his daughter Dinas. Obviously when my daughter was born in 1992 I was older than her, he said. Then one year, we were the same age. I get older by one year every four years, but she gets older every year, so now Dina will soon be 24 and Ill just be 20. The rest of us average birthday babies find nothing unique about celebration our births on the exact days were born, but for leapers, celebrating on Feb. 29 feels special, they said. Vincent and Dominic Sacco might be identical twins, but they go to different schools and play different sports. According to their mother, theyre the most non-identical identical twins youll ever meet. They might not be able to do anything elaborate for their leap day birthday this year, because it falls on a school day and they both have busy extracurricular schedules. Nevertheless, Shapiro said her sons are excited and the occasion will be special. When you celebrate on Feb. 28, it never feels like their birthday, except every four years, she said. People we know get excited on leap year. I get friends texting me about their birthday. Its funny because its a really cool thing to be a twin, but even more to be twins born on a millennial leap year. The next time the boys will have a leap day birthday, theyll be 20 years old and in college. Sharon will celebrate his 21st leap birthday when he turns 84. Stockton is organizing a celebration today open to all current and former students, colleagues and Sharons family in honor of his birthday and his career at the university for the past 44 years. After the schools celebration, Sharon said, his colleagues are taking him, his wife and daughter out to dinner. I think the celebration occasion is my birthday, but its also a celebration of my years at Stockton, he said. And then the next day, Ill go to class and keep teaching, until the next birthday. Contact: 609-272-7022 Twitter @ACPressNLeonard By PrintWeek Team All eyes are on the Awards Night of the 12th edition of the PrintWeek Awards to be held at the Grand Hyatt (Santacruz East, Mumbai) on 2 Nov... Thirteen states and 40 school districts are joining the U.S. Department of Educations open education resource initiative, #GoOpen, the federal education department announced today. The Department of Education launched its #GoOpen initiative, which encourages states and districts to use open resources, last October . Open education resources are available for free, unlike traditional textbooks and workbooks, and are often released under licenses that allow them to be shared or altered by users. Theyve posed a challenge to commercial publishers, which say many open resources are oversimplified or lacking. Districts and teachers are still figuring out how to manage, evaluate, and use the materials. But theyve been embraced by the U.S. Department of Education, which recently proposed a set of regulations for open curricula and hired a full-time staff person focused on the resources. ESSA, the new federal education law, also allows states to target federal grant money toward open education resources. The #GoOpen states and districts are tasked with developing strategies for the use of such materials. In a press release, John King, the acting education secretary, said the resources can increase equity by providing all students, regardless of zip code, access to high quality learning materials that have the most up-to-date and relevant content. Education department officials said the materials allow districts to invest in technology and other needs instead of costly curricular resources. Arizona, Georgia, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, and Wisconsin are in the first cohort of states to launch #GoOpen Initiatives . The states will develop technology strategies that prominently feature the use of open education resources, develop repositories for open resources, and will share strategies and lessons with one another. The participating districts will also create strategies for the use of open education resources. Thirty-one districts will replace at least one textbook with an open resource. Nine districts will mentor those districts. (See the full list of districts here .) The department has the support of a slew of organizations and companies: The Center for Digital Education is creating a guide for selecting digital resources; Creative Commons, which licenses open content, will be holding workshops for districts hoping to use more open resources; Amazon Education will provide infrastructure to the Department of Education; and ASCD will provide professional development through an online course, among other supporters. The professional development organization ASCD also released a set of case studies and polls on open education resources tied to the #GoOpen initiative today. The case studies highlighted collaborations between school districts in California, Ohio, and Wisconsin and in rural schools. The poll, conducted in late January through the organizations Smartbrief newsletter, found that more than 50 percent of teachers surveyed are in schools and districts where the use of open resources is prevalent. Related stories: 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. The National Association of Secondary School Principals selected Holly Ripley of West Fargo High School in West Fargo, N.D., as the 2016 National Assistant Principal of the Year. Judges praised Ripley for helping lead her 1,400-student school through frequent principal turnover and an enrollment spike caused by the oil boom in North Dakota. During six years on the job, Ripley has developed a system to provide emotional and academic support to grieving students and helped create a data-based tool that helps staff identify academically struggling students. Mrs. Ripley is passionate about each of her students and works directly with teachers and families to provide support and resources whenever possible, West Fargo Principal Jennifer Fremstad said in a statement released by NASSP. Her relationships with students are professional, encouraging, and respectful. They trust that they can count on Mrs. Ripley to provide support, to provide expectations, and to help them meet their goals while in school and their post-secondary goals. Ripley was one of three finalists for the honor. The others were: David Beiler of Jenks High Schools in Jenks, Okla., and Lesley Corner of Camden High School in Camden, S.C. Photo: Courtesy of National Association of Secondary School Principals DUBLIN, Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/t6zqsp/antiscalant) has announced the addition of the "Antiscalant Market - Global Forecast to 2020" report to their offering. The global antiscalants market is projected to reach USD 2.98 billion by 2020, registering a CAGR of 4.73% between 2015 and 2020. Demand for water consumption for both municipal and industrial purposes is increasing rapidly as there is shortage of water resource, globally. Municipalities and industries treat water & wastewater to meet stringent government regulations. Scaling is one of the common problems faced by most of the water treating companies, globally. Most of the scale fouling is found during membrane treatments. To overcome this issue, water treatment companies use antiscalants, one of the specialty chemicals. Antiscalants are used extensively in desalination process, membrane treatments, pipeline transportation, and for water processing. Asia-Pacific is the fastest-growing market for antiscalants, in terms of value and volume. Growing number of automotives, increasing scope of oil & gas exploration and production, and availability of low-cost labor in the region is responsible for the high growth of the market. China dominates the antiscalants market in the Asia-Pacific region. Its consumption of antiscalants has grown significantly and is expected to witness further growth in the near future. The high growth of antiscalants market in China is a result of the growing oil & gas, refining, power, and mining industries. Companies Mentioned: Ashland Inc. Avista Technologies Basf Se. Bwa Water Additives Clariant Ag. General Electric Co. Ict Inc. Kemira Oyj Solvay Sa The Dow Chemicalco. Topics Covered: 1 Introduction 2 Research Methodology 3 Executive Summary 4 Premium Insights 5 Market Overview 6 Industry Trends 7 By Type 8 By Application 9 By Region 10 Competitive Landscape 11 Company Profiles For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/t6zqsp/antiscalant Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior 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 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Related Links http://www.researchandmarkets.com SOURCE Research and Markets NutriBullet owner is awarded compensation for breach of contract LOS ANGELES, Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Following an international arbitration trial conducted before United States District Court Judge James Ware (Ret.), Brand Developers, Ltd. of Auckland, New Zealand, was ordered to pay Los Angeles-based Capital Brands, LLC. the sum of $2,955,768, plus attorneys' fees and costs, for breaching the parties' Exclusive Distribution and Licensing Agreement. Capital Brands, LLC., the owner of the internationally popular NutriBullet nutrient extractor blender, is a successful consumer direct, retail marketing, and distribution company. Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160226/338060 Judge Ware found that Brand Developers had breached the parties' exclusive distribution agreement in Australia and New Zealand by selling similar products in direct competition with Capital Brands' line of NutriBullet nutrient extractor blenders. The net award to Capital Brands is expected to be approximately $2.5 million after including Capital's expenses and deducting offsets awarded to Brand Developers. "We discovered that Brand Developers was selling products that competed with our innovative and best-selling NutriBullet, in direct violation of the exclusivity provision of our contract," said Capital Brands' CEO, Colin Sapire. "We feel vindicated by Judge Ware's decision to enforce our agreement and to award us damages." Capital Brands was represented by R. Joseph Trojan of Trojan Law Offices (Beverly Hills); Brand Developers was represented in the arbitration by the law firms of Griffith Hack (Sydney, Australia), 5 Wentworth Chambers (Sydney, Australia) and Seyfarth Shaw LLP (Los Angeles). About Capital Brands, LLC. Capital Brands, LLC. is a Consumer Direct, Retail Marketing, and Distribution Company, and owner of NutriBullet nutrient extractor line of products. Launched in 2012 by Capital Brands, LLC., the NutriBullet is a premier high-performance nutritional smoothie maker that provides a quick, easy and delicious way to maximize vegetable and fruit intake on a daily basis. Capital Brands' products are available at major North American retailers, including Wal-Mart, Costco, Canadian Tire, Target, Kohl's, Bed Bath and Beyond, and Macy's. It also sells products Worldwide through appointed distributors in Australia, New Zealand, Western/Eastern Europe, Latin America, and Asia. SOURCE Capital Brands, LLC. Jeff and Justine Koons to Serve as Honorary Co-Chairs ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children (ICMEC), a non-profit organization that advocates, trains and collaborates with global partners to protect children from abduction, sexual abuse and exploitation, will host the 2016 Gala for Child Protection: Building Safer Childhoods on Thursday, May 5 at 6 p.m. at Gotham Hall in New York City. The second annual gala will honor Eli and Edye Broad and Motorola Solutions Foundation for their extraordinary efforts to make a significant impact on the lives of children worldwide. Chairman of Diageo plc and former Chairman of Roche Holding Ltd, Dr. Franz Humer, will chair the night's festivities. Internationally celebrated American artists and 2015 Honorees Jeff and Justine Koons will serve as Honorary Co-Chairs. Former contestant on NBC's The Voice, Matthew Schuler, will perform. Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160229/338528 Eli and Edye Broad will receive ICMEC's Champion for Children Award. The Eli and Edythe Broad Foundation has supported ICMEC for more than a decade. Eli and Edye Broad are dedicated philanthropists whose generosity and support have significantly impacted ICMEC's work through The Koons Family Institute of International Law & Policy, the organization's research arm. Most recently, through supporting the redesign of ICMEC's website, the Broads have enabled ICMEC to transform the way it provides critical information to international partners on child abduction, sexual abuse and exploitation. "ICMEC's research, advocacy and training is critical to ensuring the protection and safety of children worldwide," said Eli and Edye Broad. "Our dear friends, Jeff and Justine Koons, introduced us to ICMEC nearly 14 years ago. We are proud to join them and ICMEC in their mission to make the world a safer place for children." The Motorola Solutions Foundation (MSF) will receive the Global Impact for Child Protection Award. Since 2010, MSF has partnered with ICMEC to enhance law enforcement and non-governmental organization responses to reports of missing and abducted children. Their support has allowed ICMEC to expand the Global Missing Children's Network (GMCN) by hosting roundtables globally; convening annual GMCN conferences to share best practices and strengthen member relationships; and coordinating a unified, global message for International Missing Children's Day. Proceeds from this fundraising gala will be directly invested in The Global Impact Fund. For ticket information, please visit the event website at www.icmec.org/gala-for-child-protection. About ICMEC The International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children is a private 501(c)(3) non-governmental, nonprofit organization. For more than 15 years, ICMEC has been a leader in identifying gaps in the global community's ability to protect children from abduction, sexual abuse and exploitation, and expertly assembling the people, resources and tools needed to fill those gaps. ICMEC focuses on programs that directly impact the issues surrounding missing children, child abduction, child sexual abuse and exploitation. Media contacts: Susan Kriskey, susan@kriskeylane.com Marni Lane, marni@kriskeylane.com 917-836-5250 Related Links http://www.icmec.org SOURCE International Centre for Missing & Exploited Children NEW YORK, February 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- The global diaper market is expected to grow from an estimated $52.7 billion in 2015, and reach $76.5 billion by 2022, growing at a CAGR of 5.5% during 2016 - 2022. The increased awareness about personal hygiene and growing population, increasing number of women workforce, and introduction of eco-friendly biodegradable diapers are the key growth drivers for the global diaper market. The presence of untapped market for diapers and emergence of hybrid diapers are laying growth opportunities for the market, during the forecast period. (Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150727/756778 ) Explore Report with Detailed TOC at: https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/diapers-market The delayed toilet training of children in developed countries and growing online purchase of baby diapers are the two trends witnessed in the global diaper market. The age at which toddlers become diaper free is increasing, since the past few years. In 1957, approximately 92% of children were toilet trained till 18 months of age, as compared to 2015 in which only 65% of children were reported to be toilet trained till the age of 36 months. As the per capita income of consumers in the developing countries (such as the U.S.) is more, as compared to those in the developing countries; it is easy for the people of developed countries to afford expensive diapers for their children. This trend is expected to influence the revenue of the global baby diaper market during the forecast period. The information and data in the publication "Global Diaper Market Size, Share, Development, Growth and Demand Forecast to 2022" represent the research and analysis of data from various primary and secondary sources. A bottom-up approach has been used to calculate the global diaper market by product, absorption level, and type. P&S Market Research analysts and consultants interact with leading companies of the concerned domain to substantiate every value of data presented in the report. The company bases its primary research on discussions with prominent professionals and analysts in the industry, which is followed by informed and detailed, online and offline research. The baby diaper segment also includes market breakdown by baby weight, whereas the adult diaper segment includes market breakdown by size. Request for Report Sample: https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/diapers-market/report-sample Due to the massive growth of population in developing countries, the use of diapers is also increasing. As the per capita income of consumers is increasing, the consumers are focusing more on personal and baby hygiene. Good hygiene is an important barrier to many infectious diseases, including the fecal-oral diseases, and it promotes better health and well-being. To achieve the greatest health benefits, people are focusing more on improvement in hygiene. The modern baby diapers and incontinence products have a layered construction, which allows the distribution and transfer of urine to a penetrable core structure, where it is locked. Diapers provide hygiene, cleanliness, comfort, and independence to the babies and adults. Though diapers are helpful in maintaining the personal hygiene of babies and adults, they are very unnatural in many ways. This has led to the increasing demand for diapers made from natural raw-materials. The global baby diaper market is driven by the manufacturers involved in introducing baby diapers that have better breathability, are soft, and cause fewer rashes on the baby's skin. Browse Related Market Research Reports at: https://www.psmarketresearch.com/industry-report/consumer-products The declining birth rate in developed countries is the key factor restraining the growth of the baby diaper segment of the market. The major companies operating in the global baby diaper market include Kimberly-Clark Corporation, Procter & Gamble, Unicharm Corporation, Kao Corporation, SVENSKA CELLULOSA AKTIEBOLAGET SCA, Bumkins, Fujian Heng Group Co. Ltd., Bummis Inc., and Nobel Hygiene Pvt. Ltd. GLOBAL DIAPER MARKET SEGMENTATION By Product Baby Diapers > Disposable Diapers - 1-part Diapers - 2-part Diapers > Cloth Diapers - 1-part Diapers - One-piece Diaper - Snap-in Diaper - 2-part Diapers - Pocket Diaper - Pre-fold Diaper - Fitted Diaper > Others - Cloth Training Pant - Cloth Swim Diaper - Bio-degradable Diaper Adult Diapers > Disposable Diapers - Tab-style Diaper - Briefs - Pads and Liners > Cloth Diapers - All-in-one - Pocket Diapers - Prefold Diapers - Flat Diapers - Fitted Diapers - Others > Others - Swim Diaper - Bio-degradable Diaper By Absorption Level - Low Absorption - High Absorption By Baby Weight (for baby diapers) - 0-2 Kg - 2-4 Kg - 3-6 Kg - 5-8 Kg - 7-13 Kg - 9-14 Kg - Over 14 Kg By Size (for adult diapers) - Small - Medium - Large By Gender (for adult diapers) - Male - Female By Geography (for both baby and adult diapers) North America - U.S. - Canada Latin America - Brazil - Mexico Europe - Spain - Germany - Italy - U.K. - France Asia-Pacific - China - India - Japan - Indonesia Middle East & Africa - Saudi Arabia - Nigeria Explore More Published Reports by P&S Market Research Global Wood Vinegar Market - https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/wood-vinegar-market Global Baby Diaper Market - https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/baby-diapers-market Global Alcoholic Drinks Market - https://www.psmarketresearch.com/market-analysis/alcoholic-drinks-market About P&S Market Research P&S Market Research is a market research company, which offers market research and consulting services for various geographies around the globe. We provide market research reports, industry forecasting reports, business intelligence, and research based consulting services across different industry/business verticals. As one of the top growing market research agency, we're keen upon providing market landscape and accurate forecasting. Our analysts and consultants are proficient with business intelligence and market analysis, through their interaction with leading companies of the concerned domain. We help our clients with B2B market research and assist them in identifying various windows of opportunity, and framing informed and customized business expansion strategies in different regions. Contact: Abhishek Executive - Client Partner 347, 5th Ave. #1402 New York City, NY - 10016 Toll-free: +1-888-778-7886 (USA/Canada) Email: enquiry@psmarketresearch.com Web: https://www.psmarketresearch.com SOURCE P&S Market Research Pvt Ltd New office advances company's strategy to provide results-focused learning science products, brings digital innovation to life for customers LONDON, Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- McGraw-Hill Education, a learning science company, today announced the opening of its new EMEA headquarters for the higher education, professional and school markets. The new office is the company's latest initiative to better serve customers in the UK and across Europe, Middle East and Africa, featuring a state-of-the-art lab that replicates the classroom experience and brings personalised learning technologies to life. The new facility will further McGraw-Hill Education's leadership position in adaptive learning technologies; increase the company's sales, product and marketing capabilities and attract the best talent in the business. Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160225/337625 "London will play a critical role in our efforts to improve education through the use of collaborative and adaptive learning science technologies," said Mark Dorman, president of McGraw-Hill Education International & Professional. "London is a power house of technology and innovation, and we are looking to tap into that talent to further improve our education efforts in the UK and global markets. We've taken big strides in transforming McGraw-Hill Education into a leader in digital education, and this new office is one more step towards that goal." "We are thrilled to be in London and look forward to hosting many customers and industry events in our new offices," said Kate Holden, managing director of EMEA for McGraw-Hill Education. "Building stronger relationships with the education community will put us in a great position to better serve their needs and to grow our business." The new headquarters in London, located at 338 Euston Road, will help strengthen the company's position as an industry leader in education technology innovation. Located in Central London, in the same building that houses other premier technology entities, McGraw-Hill Education's new Headquarter is within one mile of several major universities including University College London, University of Westminster and Birkbeck, University of London. It is also easily accessible to customers in the north of the country and most international destinations. For more than 125 years, McGraw-Hill Education has developed proven educational content and instructional design that is used every day in classrooms worldwide, generating a wealth of insight about how students learn most effectively. Today, McGraw-Hill Education is offering digital solutions that improve student outcomes through personalised learning technologies such as: The LearnSmart Advantage adaptive learning suite which includes SmartBook, the world's first-ever adaptive e-book McGraw-Hill Connect, a digital teaching and learning environment that incorporates all of the company's digital tools for higher education on one central platform ALEKS, an artificially intelligent, adaptive mathematics program for K-12 and higher education, and Engrade, an instructional management platform for K-12 education About McGraw-Hill Education McGraw-Hill Education is a learning science company that delivers learning experiences that help students, parents, educators and professionals drive results. McGraw-Hill Education has offices across North America, India, China, Europe, the Middle East and South America, and makes its learning solutions available in nearly 60 languages. Visit us at mheducation.co.uk or find us on Facebook or Twitter. Contact: Tiffany Eckelberg McGraw-Hill Education +1 (646) 766-2434 tiffany.eckelberg@mheducation.com Related Links http://www.mheducation.com SOURCE McGraw-Hill Education LONDON, February 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Company: B.S.D CROWN LTD., incorporated and registered in the State of Israel with registered number 52-004292-0 (the "Company") Notice by: Rotenstreich Gitzelter Trust Company Ltd. ("Rotenstreich Gitzelter") NOTICE is hereby given that AN EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING of the Company (the "EGM") will be held on Monday, March 21, 2016 at 10am (London time) at the Hilton London Tower Bridge, 5 More London Place, Tooley Street, London SE1 2BY, United Kingdom. The EGM is called by invitation of Rotenstreich Gitzelter, a Company shareholder, holding 10,278,451 ordinary shares of the Company (representing approximately 9.34 per cent. of the Company's issued and outstanding share capital and voting rights), whose request to convene an extraordinary general meeting of the Company's shareholders, in accordance with clause 63(b) and 63(c) of the Israeli Companies Law, 5759-1999 (the "Israeli Companies Law") and the Company's articles of association, was served on 3 February 2016 to the board of directors of the Company (the "Board") and refused. Following said refusal, Rotenstreich Gitzelter is entitled to call an extraordinary general meeting in accordance with clause 64 of the Israeli Companies Law. The EGM will convene for the purpose of considering and voting upon the following proposed resolutions: 1. the election of the following persons to serve the office as directors of the board of directors of the Company commencing on the date of approval by shareholders at the EGM and until the conclusion of the next annual general meeting: a) Mr. Naftali Shani; b) Adv. Arnon Gicelter; c) Mr. Yonatan Malca; and d) Mr. David Blass. 2. the election of Ms. Ruth Breger to serve the office as a statutory independent director in accordance with the Israeli Companies Law for an initial fixed term of three years commencing on the date of approval by shareholders at the EGM. 3. the removal from office of all the existing directors (other than the statutory independent director), namely: a) Mr Gregory Gurtovoi; b) Mr Oleksander Avdyeyev; c) Mr Israel Jossef Schneorson; d) Mr Yosef Schvinger; and e) Mr Chanoch Winderboim. EGM documents Copies of the notice, as well as the proposed directors' respective declarations, are available at the offices of Rotenstreich Gitzelter Trust Company Ltd. during regular business hours via email to: office@rglaw.co.il or upon advanced notice at 25 Ibn Gvirol Street, Tel-Aviv, Israel, Tel: +972-3-5258090 Fax: +972-3-5258080. Remuneration and Indemnification Pursuant to the Israeli Companies Law, the remuneration of directors is subject to the approval by the Company's remuneration committee followed by the approval of the board of directors of the Company. Subject to the required approvals by law, directors shall also be entitled to indemnification and Directors and Officers insurance policy covering actions and omissions. Record Date The record date for shareholders and depository interest holders to be entitled to vote is set on February 29, 2016. Quorum Two or more shareholders, present in person or by proxy and holding shares conferring in the aggregate at least 25% of the outstanding voting power of the Company, shall constitute a legal quorum at the EGM. No business shall be transacted at the EGM unless a legal quorum is present, and no resolution may be passed unless a legal quorum is present at the time such resolution is voted upon. If within half an hour from the time scheduled for the EGM a legal quorum is not present, the meeting shall be adjourned to March 28, 2016 at the same time and place (the "Adjourned Meeting"). If within half an hour from the time scheduled for the Adjourned Meeting a legal quorum is not present, then any two shareholders entitled to vote, present in person or by proxy, shall constitute a legal quorum for such adjourned meeting and shall be entitled to resolve any matters on the agenda of the meeting. Contact: Rotenstreich Gitzelter Trust Company Ltd. 25 Ibn Gvirol Street, Tel-Aviv, Israel Tel: +972-3-5258090 Fax: +972-3-5258080 Email: office@rglaw.co.il SOURCE Rotenstreich Gitzelter Trust Company Ltd. DUBLIN, Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/czgmmg/us_generic_drug) has announced the addition of the "US Generic Drug Market Opportunity Outlook 2020" report to their offering. Generic drugs are being actively accepted by various stake holders of US pharmaceutical industry due to higher cost arbitrage without compromising in quality. They do not have to go through legal issues due to which number of generic firms is increasing. Manufacturing process is already standardized due to which lesser input in terms of technological development is required. Physicians also have familiarity with these drugs making them easy to try generic versions of branded drugs. It helps both patients and government in long-term to achieve higher cost arbitrage. Several regulations have been made in past years which makes it easy for generic firms to enter in competition. With time, improvement has been made in existing infrastructure making it possible to achieve higher growth in US market. Generic drugs have emerged as an important part of US pharmaceutical industry due to which it has become imperative to develop this industry. However, some critics have raised concerns over increasing commercialization of generic medicines. Developers of new drugs are investing a lot in research and development segment and presence of generic will compete with their product in same category leading to loss of market shares. This scenario will lead to aversion among pharmaceutical developers leading to lesser innovation and introduction of costly drugs. Balance between rights of developers and profits has to achieve by regulators in coming years. FDA is patient centric organization and it would not expose patients to undue risk for cost saving purposes. Their regulations have been changed with time in order to make them more amenable for both patients and drug developers. "US Generic Drug Market Opportunity Outlook 2020" Report Highlight: - Introduction to US Generic Drugs Market - Hatch-Waxman Act & Its Implication - FDA Review on Generic Drugs - Supportive Features of US Generic Drug Laws - Effect of Generic Drug Import on US Economy - Methods to Achieve Higher Cost Arbitrage by Generic Drugs - Role of Online Pharmacies in Expansion of US Generic Drugs Market - US Generic Drugs Market Future Prospects Key Topics Covered: 1. Introduction to US Generic Drugs Market 2. Hatch-Waxman Act & Its Implication 3. FDA Review on Generic Drugs 4. US Generic Drugs Market Overview 5. Supportive Features of US Generic Drug Laws 6. Patient Protection & Affordable Care Act (PPACA) 7. Advancements in US Generic Drugs Market 8. Business Strategies of Branded & Generic Drug Manufacturers in US 9. Methods to Achieve Higher Cost Arbitrage by Generic Drugs 10. Market Scenario of Branded & Generic Drugs in US 11. Effect of Generic Drug Import on US Economy 12. Role of Online Pharmacies in Expansion of US Generic Drugs Market 13. US Generic Drugs Market Dynamics 14. US Generic Drugs Market Commercialization Challenges 15. US Disease Profiling 16. US Generic Drugs Market Future Prospects 17. Competitive Landscape - Accord Healthcare - Alvogen - Amneal Pharmaceuticals - ANI Pharmaceuticals - Apotex - Aurobindo Pharma - Baxter Healthcare Corporation - Dr. Reddy's Laboratories - Fresenius Kabi - G & W Laboratories - Glenmark Generics - lmpax Laboratories - Lupin Pharmaceuticals - Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals - Momenta Pharmaceuticals - Mylan - Par Pharmaceutical - Perrigo Company - Sagent Pharmaceuticals - Sandoz - Sun Pharmaceutical Industries - Teva Pharmaceuticals - Therapeutic Proteins International - West- Ward Pharmaceuticals - Wockhardt - Zydus Pharmaceuticals For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/czgmmg/us_generic_drug Media Contact: Research and Markets Laura Wood, Senior 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 U.S. Fax: 646-607-1907 Fax (outside U.S.): +353-1-481-1716 Related Links http://www.researchandmarkets.com SOURCE Research and Markets KANSAS CITY, Mo., Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- It was just another "weekend a month" for Will M. Helixon. When many civilian court-martial defense lawyers are looking to spend their down time with their family or hitting the slopes for a final time this season, Will M. Helixon spent two days working with the Fort Leonard Wood Office of the Staff Judge Advocate assisting their trial counsel prepare for two trials this week. As a Lieutenant Colonel with the 8th Legal Operations Detachment, headquartered in Independence, Missouri, Will Helixon is often requested by the active component to work with their trial advocates generally to improve their litigation and advocacy skills, and specifically assist them in preparing for upcoming trials. "This week, Lt. Col. Rob Stelle, the Deputy Staff Judge Advocate at Fort Leonard Wood and I focused on opening statements and working with the individual prosecutors with pending cases on trial preparation. Last year, I was asked to prepare and deliver a block of instruction on how to effectively cross-examine an accused," Lt. Col. Helixon said. That specifically created block of instruction was presented to the prosecutors at both Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, and the prosecutors at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. "In addition, we analyzed the pending sexual assault cases on the docket at both installations," Lt. Col. Helixon continued. Before leaving active duty in August 2014 and joining the 8th Legal Operations Detachment, Lt. Col. Helixon had been trained and certified to be a military judge, although he never served as a military judge. He served as a Special Victim Prosecutor for the U.S. Army from June 2010 to August 2014, primarily prosecuting cases in Germany and Italy. Additionally, Lt. Col. Helixon served as a trial counsel, senior trial counsel, senior defense counsel and chief of the Defense Counsel Assistance Program, responsible for developing and delivering advocacy training to the nearly 300 active duty and reserve U.S. Army Trial Defense counsel worldwide. "Frequently, members of the reserve Judge Advocate General's Corps are asked to assist the active component in general with personnel support, and more specifically, by assisting on specific cases," Lt. Col. Helixon noted. Although he has a private practice that specializes in defending military personnel against the government in courts-martial and other administrative actions worldwide, Lt. Col. Helixon said that it is not unusual for reservists to assist the active component in areas that are not aligned with their civilian practice. Admitting that he would be disqualified from assisting an accused with a case on which he advised the government, he insisted "the ultimate goal is the improved administration of military justice, and that will always be in the best interest of the accused." "When prosecutors are prepared, understand the issues, and efficiently present their cases, the risk of trials becoming side tracked, bogged down on unimportant issues or unnecessarily confusing issues becomes much less likely. That in turn decreases the likelihood that a fact-finder will make a mistake and wrongly convict an innocent accused," Lt. Col. Helixon emphasized. "Nobody wants that." Although there are no specific dates at this time, Lt. Col. Helixon expects to continue to work with other active component JAG offices at multiple installations during his reserve duties. "When I contribute to military justice, whether in uniform or in my civilian capacity, I always strive to leave the process and system better than when I arrived. That means being cordial, following the rules, and vigorously advocating for your client. This zealous, fair and ethical advocacy makes the adversary system the best system in the world for handling criminal justice matters and ensures both systemic and individual justice." This article in no way should be considered an endorsement of the Law Office of Will M. Helixon by the U.S. Army or the Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri. This content was issued through the press release distribution service at Newswire.com. For more info visit: http://www.newswire.com Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160229/338329 SOURCE Lt. Col. Will M. Helixon WASHINGTON and NEW YORK and LONDON, Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- MarketResearch.com published a blog post promoting four life science white papers that are available for free download. To learn more, visit our blog: http://hubs.ly/H02c3gn0 In partnership with Kalorama Information, MarketResearch.com has published four white papers with insights into different sectors of the life science industry. Life science market research includes broad topics such as biotechnology, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and diagnostics. These four white papers explain key market sectors and healthcare trends that are important for decision makers in life science firms. The life science white papers published by MarketResearch.com include: Sizing Up the Opportunity in Lab-Developed Tests 5 Cutting-Edge Trends in Molecular Diagnostics 3 Trends to Watch in Life Sciences Healthcare IT, Patient Monitoring & Telemedicine Both new and established companies need to be aware of factors that are changing how healthcare is delivered. These four white papers can help industry players stay up to date on changing technology and new innovations in healthcare. In addition to these four white papers, MarketResearch.com has a broad range of free resources available. The MarketResearch.com resource center is a great place to find helpful tools, advice, how-to's, and insights into the market research process and major industries. To check out all of our resources, visit: http://content.marketresearch.com/market-research-resources About MarketResearch.com MarketResearch.com is the leading provider of global market intelligence products and services. With research reports from more than 720 top consulting and advisory firms, MarketResearch.com offers instant online access to the world's most extensive database of expert insights on global industries, companies, products, and trends. Moreover, MarketResearch.com's Research Specialists have in-depth knowledge of the publishers and the various types of reports in their respective industries and are ready to provide research assistance. Follow us on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/marketresearch Like us on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/marketresearchdotcom Follow us on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/marketresearch_ Press Contact: Caitlin Stewart 240.747.3086 [email protected] Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20150819/259741LOGO SOURCE MarketResearch.com Related Links http://www.marketresearch.com The U.S. Department of Education is tripling the size of a grant program designed to help Native American students succeed in school. The Native Youth Community Projects will make $17.4 million available to organizations, after awarding $5.3 million in grants to a dozen recipients last year . The education department billed the grant programs expansion as the federal governments latest move in a broad effort to boost the college and career prospects for American Indian and Alaskan Native youth. The department also announced Monday that Acting U.S. Secretary of Education John B. King, Jr. will soon visit South Dakotas Pine Ridge Indian Reservation to meet with tribal leaders. Education Week did in-depth reporting on education on the Pine Ridge reservation in 2013. Seven students on the reservation committed suicide in the span of several months. The department awarded the reservations Pine Ridge School a $218,000 grant in the wake of the suicide cluster . The department did not indicate exactly when King plans to visit Indian Country, where struggles with education are well-documented. More than a third of American Indian children live in poverty, and just two-thirds graduate from high schoolthe lowest of any racial or ethnic demographic group in the nation. Its an eye-opening reality that has drawn the attention of the White House. President Barack Obamas Generation Indigenous (Gen I) initiative, a joint effort by the U.S. Department of Education and the Department of the Interior, seeks to address barriers to success for Native American youth. The Native Youth Community Projects grants are among the efforts designed to support Gen I. Last year, the grant money funded projects in nine states and involved more than 48 schools. Each grant supports an approach chosen by a community partnership led by tribes and local schools. The competitive grant program awards the funds to tribes, schools, and other organizations under the belief theyre best equipped to identify key barriers to and opportunities for improving educational and life outcomes for Native youth and develop and implement strategies designed to address those barriers. The efforts could focus on approaches such as improving preschool programs, adding language immersion classrooms or providing more mental health services. The Native Youth Community Projects are an investment in bringing tribal communities together to change that reality, and dramatically transform the opportunities for Native youth, King said in a statement released by the department. When tribal communities join together around shared goals for Native youth, we will see locally driven solutions coming from leaders who work most closely with students and are best-positioned to lead change. Photo: A school bus travels the remote roads of South Dakotas Pine Ridge Indian Reservation.--Swikar Patel/Education Week BATTLE CREEK, Mich., Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Pop-Tarts knows that the 2016 election will spotlight the issues that matter most, so they teamed up with tastemakers at Spoon University to uncover trends across the nation. From flavor favorites to the debate to toast or not, teens and young adults are ready to Pop the Vote. Pop the Vote with Pop-Tarts and Spoon University Pop-Tarts Pop the Vote Pop-Tarts has long been tempting fans' taste buds with more than 22 varieties to choose from. Most people know Frosted Strawberry and Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon won't let them down, but what about all the other mouthwatering options available like the classic Chocolate Chip combination, to gooey Cinnamon Roll, and even sweet and tangy Frosted Watermelon. Which flavor will you venture to try next? "We know that everyone has a go-to Pop-Tarts flavor some may be Confetti Cupcake fanatics while others are trying to convince their friends to give the new Chocolatey Caramel a shot," said Aleta Chase, director of marketing for Pop-Tarts. "We were curious to see how much fans know about the variety of our flavors available in the midst of election season." Check out additional findings from the Pop-Tarts and Spoon University survey: Young adults may not agree on the best social media platform (Insta is the favorite!), but all Instagram, Twitter, Facebook and SnapChat lovers tap "like" on Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon over any other flavor While the majority of ladies on college campuses vote hands down that Frosted S'mores is the leading Pop-Tarts flavor candidate, it's the sweetly satisfying Frosted Strawberry that has the fellas' vote flavor candidate, it's the sweetly satisfying Frosted Strawberry that has the fellas' vote Music taste plays a key indicator in snacking preferences country and EDM concert-goers find common ground in favoring Frosted Brown Sugar Cinnamon Hot Fudge Sundae ranks fourth among pop, EDM, hip-hop AND rock music-lovers Follow the #PoptheVote2016 conversation and head to PoptheVote2016.com to make sure your favorite flavor is elected Pop-Tarts President. Suggested Tweets Click to Tweet: Ladies on college campuses vote Pop-Tarts S'mores, gents vote Strawberry. On the fence? PoptheVote2016.com now! #PoptheVote2016 Click to Tweet: For the love of your country, and for the love of @PopTarts411, vote for your Pop-Tarts Prez at PoptheVote2016.com! #PoptheVote2016 About Kellogg Company At Kellogg Company (NYSE: K), we strive to make foods people love. This includes our beloved brands Kellogg's, Keebler, Special K, Pringles, Kellogg's Frosted Flakes, Pop-Tarts, Kellogg's Corn Flakes, Rice Krispies, Cheez-It, Eggo, Mini-Wheats and more that nourish families so they can flourish and thrive. With 2015 sales of $13.5 billion and more than 1,600 foods, Kellogg is the world's leading cereal company; second largest producer of cookies, crackers and savory snacks; and a leading North American frozen foods company. Through our Breakfasts for Better DaysTM global hunger initiative, we've provided more than 1.4 billion servings of cereal and snacks to children and families in need around the world. To learn more, visit www.kelloggcompany.com or follow us on Twitter @KelloggCompany, YouTube and on Social K. Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160226/337991-INFO Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160226/337993 Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160226/337992LOGO SOURCE Kellogg Company Related Links http://www.kelloggcompany.com DLisa Crain may have started her career in marketing and public relations at a construction company, but she ended up helping parents of all backgrounds succeed in the school system. As the family-school partnerships administrator for Washoe County School District in Reno, Nev., Crain assists parents in the 63,000-student system, which is the states second largest. Her programs include courses for parents, a home-visiting program, and a new approach to parent-teacher conferences. Her work earned her a spot as one of 13 educators in Education Weeks Leaders To Learn From special report . In a story by Alyson Klein of Education Week , Crain explained her approach: With so many of our families, its not that they dont want the best for their children, they absolutely do, Crain said. But for some parents, Its hard to know what questions to ask. How do you, in a respectful way, advocate for your children, how do you access district resources when you might yourself be struggling with basic needs? Watch a video showing Crain talk about her work, as well as her programs in action: See stories about all of the 13 influential educators in Education Weeks report . Contact Sarah Tully at stully@epe.org . Follow @ParentAndPublic for the latest news on schools and parental involvement. Dont miss another K-12 Parents and the Public post. Sign up here to get news alerts in your email inbox. 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 Melbourne, Feb 25 : The widow of a Melbourne-based Chinese businessman who was a passenger on the missing Malaysia Airlines flight MH370 has sued the company, claiming the crew may have orchestrated its mysterious disappearance. Jennifer Chong has launched civil action against the airline, seeking $115,000 for the unexplained death of her husband, Chong Ling Tan, Xinhua news aganecy reported on Thursday. Chong filed a statement of claim late Wednesday. In the legal documents, Chong has alleged that Malaysia Airlines should be accountable for the actions of their crew. "By reason of the breach of duty of care, the defendant's aircraft disappeared and is presumed to have crashed, causing the death of the deceased and consequent loss and damage to the first plaintiff, the children of the deceased and other dependants," Chong said in the documents submitted to the court. Chong, who immigrated to Australia from Malaysia with her husband in 2011, claims that the crew failed in their duty to ensure the flight landed safely. She is reportedly seeking the payout for pain and suffering she and her two sons have endured. Within the documents, Chong also asserts that a crew member, or potentially crew members, may have "deliberately altered the course of the aircraft resulting in its loss at sea". The Boeing 777, travelling from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing, was carrying 239 people -- 227 passengers, 12 crew -- when it went missing on March 8, 2014. The Malaysian government officially confirmed that there were no survivors in January 2015. The Australian search for the missing flight in the southern Indian Ocean is nearing its end, with the team having found no trace of the plane despite scouring around 85,000 sq.km of the 120,000-sq.km search area. Tehran, Feb 25 : Iranians are going to the polls on Friday to vote in two crucial elections after a week of campaigning by candidates who largely got down to brass tacks. Voting for the 290-seat Parliament (Majlis) and the 88-member Assembly of Experts will be held simultaneously. Some 55 million Iranians are eligible to vote in the two elections, reports Press TV. As many as 4,844 candidates, including about 500 women, are competing for a place in the Parliament, head of the Interior Ministry's election headquarters Mohammad Hossein Moqimi said on Thursday. The week-long campaign of the candidates officially ended at 8 a.m. on Thursday, 24 hours before the beginning of the votes. On Wednesday, Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli said some of the candidates had pulled out. "It now leaves around 17 people competing for each parliamentary seat," he said. Ahead of the voting, the top Iranian leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei warned against enemy plots to infiltrate the elections, calling on the nation to remain vigilant. "The nation neither wants a pro-government parliament nor an anti-government one," Ayatollah Khamenei said. "They want a courageous and devout parliament that knows its duties and is not intimidated by the US," he added. Iran's President Hassan Rouhani texted mobile phone users urging them to vote, saying participation was needed "to build the future of the country with plenty of hope." Imphal, Feb 25 : Rights activist Irom Sharmila, who has been on a 15-year-long hunger strike to press for the abrogation of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, has said she would continue her fast unto death. At the court of the chief judicial magistrate, Imphal west, where she was presented on Wednesday, Sharmila told reporters that she would continue her fast at Kangla, the old capital of Manipur, through March 1 when she is expected to be released. On fast since November 4, 2000, she has been charged -- more than once -- with attempt to commit suicide under Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code. As the law court had released her as not guilty last year, her lawyer hopes that this time too she will be set free. Since the District and Sessions Court did not find her guilty, it ordered the court of the chief judicial magistrate to release her. The court released her on January 22, 2015. However, the police re-arrested her two days later as she continued her fast at the women's market in Imphal. Since the Act under which she is arrested provides detention for one year only at one go, Sharmila is ritually released at the end of each year. She was once released on October 5, 2006. She slipped away to Delhi to carry on her fast at Jantar Mantar. Delhi Police arrested her and a trial is going on at the Patiala House court on the charge of trying to commit suicide. Sharmila is lodged in a security ward of Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences here. She is guarded round-the-clock by jail, police and hospital staff. The government is spending about Rs.70,000 a month on her medication and feeding her through the nose. Several times she could not be produced in the Patiala House court as the cash-strapped government could not arrange travel expenses in time for Sharmila and her entourage. Tehran, Feb 26 : Iranians begin voting early Friday in crucial elections to choose members of parliament (Majlis) and the assembly of experts, which appoints the next supreme leader. Polls opened at 8.00 a.m. (local time) and will close at 6.00 p.m. on Friday, but voting hours could be extended if the need arises amid expectations of a high turnout, Press Tv reported. In the opening hour, Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei cast his ballots in downtown Tehran. Ayatollah Khamenei called on all Iranians to participate in the elections, saying "voting is both a right and a duty". "Anybody who loves Iran, anybody who loves the Islamic Republic and national dignity, grandeur and glory is advised to participate in the elections," the leader said. Ayatollah Khamenei advised voters to participate "in this great task with the intention of generating additional dignity and full independence for the country." "Our enemies have their covetous eyes trained on Iran. People are advised to vote with discretion and foresight and disappoint the enemies," he said. Around 55 million Iranians are eligible to vote in the elections, first since Iran clinched a landmark nuclear agreement on July 14 last year. "Elections are always important but at certain junctures they have more importance," Ayatollah Khamenei added. Iranian President Hassan Rouhani was also among the first to cast his ballots at the interior ministry in Tehran. Addressing Iranians, Rouhani congratulated the nation on its high turnout even in the early hours of voting, saying reports show full security prevails at polling stations across the country. The Iranian chief executive added the active "political participation" of people means "trust in the establishment," saying the government will spare no efforts to protect people's vote and ensure healthy and legitimate elections. As many as 4,844 candidates, including about 500 women, are competing for a place in the parliament, head of the Interior Ministry's election headquarters Mohammad Hossein Moqimi said on Thursday. In Tehran, some 1,000 candidates compete for 30 parliamentary seats. Five seats will go to the religious minorities recognised in the Iranian Constitution, namely Jews, Christians and Zoroastrians. Among the main tasks of the legislative body are introducing legislation, dismissing the president and cabinet ministers through no-confidence votes, approving annual national budget and ratifying international treaties. In the simultaneous vote on Friday, Iranians will also select 88 senior religious figures of the assembly of experts, which is tasked with appointing the leader and monitoring his performance. Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani said opinion polls and estimates showed the turnout would be around 70 percent. Rahmani Fazli added that the vote counting will begin as soon as the polls were closed. There are 52,000 polling stations with 120,000 ballot boxes across the country, according to the Iranian minister. The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday declined to hear a Mississippi high school students appeal of a lower-court ruling that his off-campus rap recording that alluded to shooting two teachers was not protected by the First Amendment. The decision came without comment from the justices on their first formal orders since the Feb. 13 death of Justice Antonin Scalia. The court also refused to hear the appeal of a Tennessee school district whose decision to outsource its alternative education program to a private Christian school was struck down by two lower federal courts as a violation of the First Amendments prohibition against government establishment of religion. Also, the justices declined to step into a New Jersey dispute over whether the state was required by one of its own statutes to increase state and employee contributions to its pension system for teachers and other employees. The high court did not act on appeals of a decision by the Colorados highest court that struck down a local voucher program because it aided religious schools in violation of the state constitution. The justices could still grant those appeals, or it could be holding them for a related case they will hear next term. Those cases are consolidated under the caption Doyle v. Taxpayers for Public Education (Case No. 15-556). Here is more detail on Mondays actions. Off-Campus Rap In Bell v. Itawamba County School Board (No. 15-666), the appeal involved student Taylor Bells rap song and video, posted on Facebook and YouTube in 2011, that referenced a character attacking two teachers with guns. Bells lyrics included a character boasting to one of the teachers, Im going to get you with my rueger [sic], a misspelled reference to a type of gun. Another line said, going to get a pistol down your mouth. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit, in New Orleans, ruled 13-3 that school officials reasonably concluded that one rap video made by Bell was directed at the school community and threatened the two teachers. In his appeal to the Supreme Court, Bell had drawn support from the Student Press Law Center as well several professional rap artists, who argued in a friend-of-the-court brief that hip hop and gangsta rap are often misunderstood. The decision by the court of appeals punishes a student for his artand perpetuates unfair and inaccurate stereotypesby mischaracterizing often-used rap music phrases as threats, said the brief signed by multiple artists and professors, including one known as Killer Mike. Outsourcing to Private Schools In Kucera v. Jefferson County Board of School Commissioners (No. 15-553), the justices were asked to examine a Tennessee school districts use of a private Christian school as its alternative education provider for students with disciplinary problems. A three-judge panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 6th Circuit, in Cincinnati, held last year that the public school students from the Jefferson County, Tenn., district were served in a day program at the private Kingswood School in Bean Station, Tenn., that offered secular instruction and only minimal exposure to religion, and thus the arrangement did not violate the establishment clause. New Jersey Pensions The justices declined to hear appeals from the New Jersey Education Association and other unions in that state of a New Jersey Supreme Court ruling that went against them in a dispute over a 2011 state law designed to bolster public-employee pension systems. The statute provided that members of the state pension system have a contractual right to have the state contribute a prescribed amount to the system each year. Republican Gov. Chris Christie signed the bill into law, but in a subsequent budget, he proposed contributing only $681 million to the pension systems rather than the $2.25 billion called for under the statute. The NJEA and other unions sued the state under the contract clauses of the state and federal constitutions. While a lower state court ruled for them, the states highest court reversed, holding that the state constitutions debt-limitation clause prohibits the creation, without voter approval, of a legally enforceable financial obligation that would bind future legislatures. The U.S. Supreme Court declined without comment to hear the unions appeals in Burgos v. New Jersey (No. 15-293) and New Jersey Education Association v. New Jersey (No. 15-302). Kathmandu, Feb 26 : Two pilots were killed when an aircraft belonging to the private sector Kasthamandap Air crashed in far western Nepal's Kalikot district on Friday, an official said. Tje two pilots -- Captain Dinesh Neupane and co-pilot Santosh Ranaa -- of the plane were killed when the 9N-AJB chartered flight that took off from Nepalgunj city at 12.16 p.m. (local time) crashed while landing in a farmer's field near the top of a mountain, Minister for Tourism and Civil Aviation Ananda Pokhrel said. The Jumla-bound flight from Nepalgunj Airport carried in all 11 people, including two crew members, on board. The incident came two days after a Tara Air plane -- that took off from Pokhara -- crashed on a forested mountainside on Wednesday, killing all 23 people on board. The second crash within the week has created fears about security of domestic flights in the Himalayan nation where the country needs measure to make its aviation sector safe. Nepal Army spokesperson Brigadier General Tara Bahadur Karki said a joint team of Nepal Police and Army had been despatched for the accident site. The aircraft appeared to have some technical problem and attempted to land on a farmer's field near the top of a mountain. It went into a steep descent and crashed nose down, an eyewitness said. The front part of the plane caught fire and efforts were on to douse the blaze, the eyewitness told media persons over phone. Three helicopters, including two from the Nepal Army, were sent for the rescue operation, said Minister Pokhrel. More passengers could have been injured, and a team of medical professionals had reached the accident site from the district headquarter, he added. Chennai, Feb 27 : The Indian Railways should look at the option of taking out a master personal accident insurance policy for its passengers, those with confirmed/reserved tickets, according to industry officials. The railways cannot absolve itself of the liability to passengers even if it offers a facility to buy travel insurance at the time of ticket-booking, said insurance industry officials. Railways Minister Suresh Prabhu while presenting the railway budget for 2016-17 said railways is working with insurance companies to provide optional travel insurance for rail journeys at the time of booking. Talking to IANS, industry officials expressed surprise at Prabhu's statement. "The railways used to have a public liability policy issued by United India Insurance Company Ltd. till mid-2000s. The policy would compensate the railways for compensation paid against liability claims," a senior official of United India Insurance, requesting anonymity, told IANS. However, industry officials welcomed Prabhu's statement. "We welcome the move. It will increase the spread of insurance. A master personal accident insurance policy seems to be a good idea," R. Chandrasekaran, secretary general, General Insurance Council of India, told IANS. While the move may get some non-traffic revenue for the railways, how far people would opt for a travel insurance policy is a million dollar question. The industry officials cite the personal accident policy sales to domestic airline passengers as an example. On the other hand, if the railways opt for a master personal accident insurance policy covering passengers with reserved tickets, it can, in a way, cut down its outgo to accident victims. For the insurers, the risk exposure towards a passenger is only limited to the actual duration of the journey. The insurers can issue a policy to various railway regions -- southern railway, central railway and others -- so that premium could be charged based on the accident experience. "While the premium may be low in providing death, total and permanent partial disability covers, the policyholder base would log a quantum jump. Insurance is nothing but a business of large numbers," an industry official told IANS. As per official data, India has the fourth largest railroad network in the world with some 64,460 route km, after the US (224,792), Russia (128,000) and China (112,00). Nearly 21,000 trains ply daily to ferry 23 million passengers. The network spans 29 states and three union territories via some 8,500 stations. It criss-crosses Baramulla in Jammu and Kashmir in the north to Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu in the south and Ledo in Assam in the east to Naliya in Gujarat in the west. Islamabad, Feb 27 : At least 15 suspected militants were killed on Saturday during air strikes conducted by Pakistan military fighter jets in south Waziristan Agency. Official sources told Dawn that at least 15 suspected militants were killed after jets targeted four positions in the restive Maisar area of Dattakhel Tehsil. According to official statements, over 3,500 militants have been killed in operation Zarb-e-Azb, while the offensive forced over a million civilians to vacate their homes and move to settled areas of the country. Pakistan Army chief Gen Raheel Sharif on Wednesday ordered troops to march on the last bastion of terrorists in Shawal valley of North Waziristan to take operation Zarb-i-Azb to its logical end. Shanghai, Feb 27 : The New Development Bank of the five Brics nations on Saturday signed an agreement with the Chinese government to locate its headquarters in this Chinese city. "The agreements related to our headquarters in Shanghai are a landmark step in our nascent journey as a development bank. With this, we are ready for business and we look forward to building an institution of repute in course of time," bank president K.V. Kamath said in a statement. Kamath, former head of the India's largest private bank ICICI Bank Ltd, is the first president of the multilateral bank of Brics (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) set up on July 7, 2015 in Moscow. "The agreement governs the establishment of the bank's headquarters in China and makes provision for the requisite immunities, privileges and other facilities," the statement said. Chinese Foreign Affairs Minister Wang Yi and Kamath signed the agreement on behalf of the government and the bank, while Shanghai municipal people's government mayor Yang Xiong and Kamath signed a memorandum on arrangements for setting up the bank's headquarters in the city. As an alternative to the American and European-led World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF), the new bank will fund infrastructure and development projects in Brics and other emerging and developing countries. The bank's initial subscribed capital is fixed at $50 billion, while the total paid-in capital will be $10 billion. "The bank has received project proposals from all Brics countries and the appraisal of the first set of projects is scheduled for April," the statement added. The bank's founding members have infused their capital of $1 billion each as their initial contribution. Each member country holds equal number of shares and voting rights without any veto power. New Delhi : Title: Walking the Himalayas; Author: Levinson Wood; Publisher: Hodder&Stoughton, An Hachette UK company; Pages: 291; Price: Rs.699 Levinson Wood clambers up steep mountains and treks through narrow passes, taking us on a journey that begins in Afghanistan, moves through Pakistan and India and ends in Bhutan. In his book, he explores and presents an animated vision of the paths he treads -- many of them treacherous -- as well as the people he meets on the way. His expedition is easily any mountaineer's dream. He and his guides followed "almost precisely the ancient Silk Road that was built as a joint project by the Pakistan and Chinese governments". The Karakorum Highway (KKH) connects China and Pakistan across the Karakorum mountain range. His book is not merely an account of the passes and mountains he and his guides journeyed through. It is a visual travelogue of the people he meets on the way and then meets them again after many years. For example, his association with his Nepali guide Binod Pariyar, who saved the 19-year-old Wood from the violence that erupted after the royal family of Nepal was massacred. He has visited Pariyar a couple of times later. He has kept a careful note of what people and specially women wore at different places and how each was an embodiment of their culture. He vividly remembers how the type of houses and tracks changed with terrain. A full-time explorer, a photographer and a journalist, Wood has spent 10 years in the British Army. He has travelled in over 80 countries and has lived in Africa and Asia for many years. As a captain in the British Parachute Regiment in 2009, he had "served around the world, including a brief stint in Afghanistan, a rollercoaster ride of action-packed exercises in the forests of East Africa to combat duty in the deserts and mountains of Southern Afghanistan". But he was now moved to desk work, something he soon realized he did not enjoy at all. As a teenager, Rudyard Kipling's short stories had fascinated him about Britain's colonial past and "her involvement in the Indian sub-continent and the high mountain passes that led to the interior of Asia". But what he now embarked upon was a "travel plan from the western most fringes in Afghanistan... all the way through its main arteries... via Pakistan, India, Nepal and finishing up in either Tibet or Bhutan". He rightfully gauged that the journey would be riddled with enormous and varied challenges. Also because in such terrain, it is difficult to predict the weather or what you might see at the next turn of a cliff. He also takes into account factors such as the "insurgency in Afghanistan, landslides in Kashmir, Maoists in Nepal" as well as "grizzly predators throughout". It is an easy read with loads of information and a few photographs of the region, its people and its culture. It can also be used as a guidebook if you intend to traverse through the area or parts of it. (Priyanka can be contacted at priyanka.eight@gmail.com) Tokyo, Feb 29 : Top diplomats from Japan and China met in Tokyo on Monday to discuss possible responses to North Korea in the wake of the recent nuclear and missile tests carried out by Pyongyang. Japanese Deputy Foreign Minister Shinsuke Sugiyama met his Chinese counterpart Xuanyou Kong, marking the first high level diplomatic talks between the two countries since the Pyongyang regime carried out a nuclear test on January 6 and the following month launched a satellite aboard a rocket, EFE news reported. The meeting also comes after China and the US, both permanent members of the UN Security Council, agreed last week to draft tougher sanctions to punish North Korea for these actions. At the meeting, which comes shortly after Tokyo highlighted the impossibility of discussing over telephone with Beijing the recent arms tests carried out by North Korea, the two Deputy Foreign Ministers were also scheduled to address other regional issues. Kong had earlier said that China wants to hold a high level meeting with Japan to improve ties between the two countries, distanced by regional tensions. Relations between the two major powers in East Asia remain tensed because of the dispute surrounding the sovereignty of the Senkaku (Diaoyu in Chinese) Islands. Ties further deteriorated in recent weeks after Tokyo criticised Beijing's recent deployment of surface-to-air missile on an island in the South China Sea whose ownership is claimed by Vietnam. London, Feb 29 : The social networking website Facebook can be used to track people's sleeping habits by building up a database of when your friends were seen last online busy chatting or "liking" posts on Facebook, a media report said. "Many people visit Facebook as the first thing in the morning and the last thing before going to bed. It is, therefore, possible to get a good impression of their sleeping habits," said San Francisco-based software engineer Soren Louv-Jansen in a Mail Online report. For the study, Louv-Jansen used "time stamps" from Facebook's Messenger service to see when his friends were asleep. He was curious to see where the "last seen" data was coming from and after doing some research, he found a list of his Facebook friends' user IDs and last activity "time stamps". This, he added, is embedded in the initial mark-up of Messenger.com and can be viewed by simply visiting the website and clicking "View Source" to see for yourself. "By creating a simple service that checks Facebook every 10 minutes, I'm able to get an accurate picture of my friends' Facebook usage," said Louv-Jansen, who published the programme's source code onto GitHub. GitHub is used by many developers and hackers to put large amounts of information for developer communities to see and take advantage of, the report said. New Delhi, Feb 29 : Continuing government efforts to deal with the high levels of non-performing assets (NPAs), or bad debts, of state-run banks, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday allocated Rs.25,000 crore towards their recapitalisation in the next fiscal. He made the announcement while presenting in parliament the union budget proposals for the next fiscal. Jaitley plans to provide Rs.25,000 crore capital each in the current and next fiscal years, while Rs.20,000 crore would be provided during 2017-18 and 2018-19. In July last, the government had presented to parliament a supplementary demand for grants to provide for Rs.12,000 crore towards recapitalisation of public sector banks (PSBs). The Rs.25,000 crore this year are being provided through three tranches. Around 40 percent of the amount is to be given to those banks which require support, and all PSBs will be brought to the level of at least 7.5 percent core capital by the end of fiscal 2016, the finance ministry has said. In the second tranche, 40 percent of capital is to be allocated to State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Punjab National Bank, Canara Bank and IDBI Bank. The remaining 20 percent is to be allocated to the banks based on their performance during the three quarters in the current year. As per estimates, PSBs would need additional capital of up to Rs.240,000 crore by 2018 to meet the Basel III capital adequacy norms, put in place to guard against a repeat of the situation following the 2008 US financial crisis. The quantum of exposure of Indian scheduled banks in terms of gross non-productive assets, re-cast loans and write-offs was Rs.9.5 lakh crore as of September last year. Meanwhile, the government on Sunday named former comptroller and auditor general Vinod Rai has been named the first chairman of the Banks Board Bureau that will give advice on how to recover the bad loans of state-run banks. The members co-opted to the board are Anil K. Khandelwal, former chair of Bank of Baroda, H.N. Sinor, former joint managing director of ICICI Bank and Rupa Kudwa, former managing director and chief executive of Crisil. Taking the first step towards a holding company structure for state-run banks, the government, in August last, announced the setting up of a Banks Board Bureau (BBB) that will recommend appointment of directors in PSBs and advise on ways of raising funds and dealing with stressed assets. Seoul, Feb 29 : An American student detained in North Korea confessed at a press conference in Pyongyang on Monday that he tried to steal a political banner from the hotel he was staying in. Otto Frederick Warmbier, a student at the University of Virginia, acknowledged, in his first public appearance since his arrest, that he tried to steal a banner, with a political slogan, from an area reserved for staff at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, local North Korean media sai. The 21-year-old student, whose confession could have been forced by North Korean authorities, admitted to having been encouraged by a Protestant church in Ohio in the US, and also said the US government was involved, EFE news reported. On January 22, North Korea announced that the student had been arrested for committing "hostile acts" against the regime but did not follow it up with details. The student is one of the three Westerners, who are being detained in North Korea for alleged acts against the Kim Jong-un regime. The other two are Hyeon Soo Lim, a Korean-Canadian pastor sentenced to life in prison, and South Korean-American citizen Kim Dong Chul. In October, Pyongyang released a New York University student, who had been detained for six months for entering the country illegally. Mumbai, Feb 29 : Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton will arrive here on April 10 for their first ever visit to India, an official statement said on Monday. They would experience a variety of aspects of contemporary Indian life, focusing on young people, sport, entrepreneurship, Indian efforts to relieve urban poverty, the creative arts, and rural life in India, the statement said. After their stay in Mumbai, the royal couple, also known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, will travel on April 11 to New Delhi. They will be in Assam on April 12 and 13 to visit the Kaziranga National Park and pay tribute to the rural traditions of the communities who live around the park. The royal couple will travel on April 14 to the neighbouring Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan and return on April 16 to Agra for a visit to the Taj Mahal, a Unesco World Heritage monument, in conclusion of their two-nation tour. "Their visit to India will be an introduction to a country that they plan to build an enduring relationship with. They will pay tribute to India's proud history, but also are keen to understand the hopes and aspirations of young Indian people and the major role they will play in shaping the 21st century," said a Kensington Palace spokesperson. A qualified pilot, Prince William, 33, is the elder son of Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales and the late Princess Diana, and is the second in line to succeed his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II to the British throne. Liberal Politics from the Heart of Bluegrass Country London, Feb 29 : Not just chronic medical conditions and unhealthy lifestyle, psychological factors such as decline in memory or just feeling unhealthy are also likely to elevate the risk of early death mortality rate especially in the middle-aged and the elderly. The result of the longitudinal study of over 6,000 adults revealed that better perceived health and smaller decreases in processing speed over time could help reduce mortality risk. "Our study shows that two psychological variables, lower self-rated health and age-related decrements in processing speed, appear to be especially important indicators of elevated mortality risk in middle-age and older adults," said Stephen Aichele, scientist at University of Geneva in Switzerland. Being a woman was also linked with reduced mortality risk, while years of smoking tobacco was connected with an increased risk of early death. The findings, published in the journal Psychological Science, may provide useful insights to health professionals, who need better methods for identifying individuals at risk of early death, the researchers noted. The researchers investigated the relative influence of cognitive, demographic, health, and lifestyle variables in predicting mortality risk from the Manchester Longitudinal Study of Cognition's data collected for 29 years' from 6,203 adults who ranged in age from 41 to 96 years old when the study began. Participants' subjective reports of various lifestyle factors, including perceived health, number of prescribed medicines, sleep patterns, hobbies, leisure activities, and social interactions were also examined. Agra, Feb 29 : A group of business leaders and social activists here on Monday demanded an international airport at Agra. The group unanimously demanded upgradation of the existing Kheria airport as an international airport with modern amenities. "Since there is a consensus of opinion there should be no hurdle. Agra being India's most important tourist centre, visited by millions of tourists annually, deserves (better) air connectivity," a senior corporator Shiromani Singh told IANS. Before elections, Prime Minister Narendra Modi promised Agra an international airport, but he has forgotten, an activist Ekta Agarwal said. United Nations, Feb 29 : Security Council reforms have gained momentum with a consensus emerging on increasing its size from 15 to the mid-20s despite opposition from Russia and the US at the recent negotiating session, according to diplomatic sources. While the issue of adding permanent members was not on the session's agenda and was scheduled for later, Pakistan and a group of countries served notice that they would oppose any such move. Despite these differences, the "momentum of convergence is gaining speed" for reforms, a diplomat who was at the February 22 meeting told IANS. The diplomat cited the overwhelming support for increasing the total number of Council members from 15 to the mid-20s and for other reforms, which include making its working more transparent, emphasising mediation over military force, and more involvement of non-member countries in its activities. This was the second session of the Intergovernmental Negotiations on Security Council Reforms (IGN) after the General Assembly overcame stiff opposition last year to adopt a text to base the discussions on. IANS put together this account of the closed door meeting from conversations with sources who attended it and speeches released by some countries. The US and Russia wanted the size of the Council restricted to 20 asserting that anything more would undermine its efficiency. Limiting it to 20 would make it virtually impossible to add permanent members because there would then be no room for any non-permanent members, which would be the priority of most countries to broaden the representation on the UN's highest decision-making body. Washington and Moscow have, however, endorsed adding permanent members, with India as one of them. But a 20-member limit on the Council could nullify this. The other permanent members, Britain and France, backed the mid-20s number, while China did not take a stand. India supported going up to 27 and Permanent Representative Syed Akbaruddin said: "Efficiency is not merely an issue of numbers but stems from a broader set of factors such as credibility, equitability, legitimacy and representativeness." Russia also opposed proposals coming from the IGN on reforming the working of the Council, the other item on the agenda, claiming that it was an internal matter that only the Council should decide. The IGN is to discuss on March 9 the veto issue, including whether new permanent members should have veto powers and if they should voluntarily forgo them. But in a preview of differences expected at the session, African nations said they wanted two permanent members from their region with veto powers and all other privileges the current five have. While China spoke of greater role for developing countries, it avoided saying anything on adding permanent members so as not to publicly antagonise the African countries, even as it lobbies against more permanent members. Pakistan's Permanent Representative Maleeha Lodhi said categorically: "There should be no additional permanent seats." Pakistan belongs to a 13-member United for Consensus (UfC) group led by Italy that campaigns against adding permanent members and held up the reform process for several years by preventing the adoption of a negotiating text for the talks. Italian Permanent Representative Sebastiano Cardi, speaking on behalf of UfC, suggested adding 11 seats to the Council, but said: "UfC countries are convinced that we cannot afford to allocate seats permanently to a few countries at the expense of the rest of the membership." Cardi examined the current distribution of seats in the Council to various groups, which gives five seats to the Europe and North America group and only three each to the Asia-Pacific and Africa groups and two each to Eastern Europe and Latin America groups. This resulted in one Council seat for every 26 Asian-Pacific countries and one seat for every 18 African nations, he said. To right the imbalance, the majority of the added seats should go to Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, he said. German Permanent Representative Harald Braun, who spoke on behalf of four-nation group G-4 that includes India, Brazil and Japan, said he was "gratified" that the UfC supported his group's proposal on enlarging the Council and added that this "indicated the group's willingness to consolidating this point accordingly". The G-4 nations lobby for adding permanent seats and mutually support each for them. (Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in) Imphal, Feb 29 : The suspension of five police commandos, accused by the Naga Students' Federation of manhandling their activists, was revoked by the Manipur government on Monday. Following the announcement, the 20 Congress legislators who had threatened to boycott the ongoing budget session of the state assembly called off their agitation and attended the session, while the Naga Students' Federation is yet to post a response. Recalling the February 14 incident, the NSF said some its members attending the Naga seed sowing festival in Ukhrul district were intercepted by the five police commandos. The NSF alleged high-handedness with the policemen even snatching their mobile handsets. But Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, who also holds the home portfolio, dismissed the allegations in the house. He said: "The students were not beaten up, harassed or detained. There would not have been the stand-off if the NSF delegates had cooperated with the police." Despite the categorical statement of the home minister, the DGP of Manipur, L.M. Khoute suspended all the five police commandos on February 25. The All Manipur Students' Union, Kangleipak Students' Association, several civil organisations and groups protested the suspension. They said it was being done to appease the NSF. The 20 ruling Congress MLAs also backed this stand. A special meeting of the Congress Legislature Party was convened on Sunday as demanded by the angry MLAs to discuss the matter. During the four-hour meeting, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh told them the suspension order will be revoked. New Delhi, Feb 29 : Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday gave a small relief of Rs.3,000 to individuals having an annual income of less than Rs.500,000. Presenting the budget for 2016-17, Jaitley said the ceiling of tax rebate under Section 87A of the Income Tax Act has been proposed to be increased to Rs.5,000 from Rs.2,000. This will be applicable for individuals with an income less than Rs.500,000. According to Jaitley, the move would benefit over two crore tax payers. The limit of deduction of house rent paid under section 80GG has also been raised to Rs.60,000 from the existing Rs.24,000 per annum to give relief to employees who live in rented houses. "To encourage the youth to be self employed, house rent deduction under section 80GG was expected to be revised considering the rentals in metros. Giving marginal relief to the self-employed, deduction under section 80GG has been raised from Rs.24,000 to Rs.60,000 to bring them on a level playing field with salaried taxpayers receiving house rent allowance (HRA)," Suraj Nangia, partner, Nangia & Co told IANS. "The new limit is still not in line with the sky-high rentals in metro cities and also considering the deduction on account of HRA available to salaried persons, which can be substantial in cases where the salary and its HRA component are high," Nangia added. In order to increase the penetration of the National Pension Scheme (NPS) and to make it attractive, Jaitley announced exemption of 40 percent of the corpus at the time of withdrawal. Jaitley said the annuity fund which goes to legal heir will not be taxable. In case of superannuation funds and recognised provident funds, including EPF, the same norm of 40 percent of corpus to be tax-free will apply in respect of corpus created out of contributions made on or from 1.4.2016. He also said that the government is proposing the monetary limit for contribution of employer in recognised Provident and Superannuation Fund of Rs.150,000 per annum for taking tax benefit. The service tax on single premium annuity policies has been reduced to 1.4 percent from 3.5 percent of the premium paid in certain cases. Similarly, Jaitley also announced exemption of service tax for annuity services provided by NPS and services provided by Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). On the indirect tax side, Jaitley announced abolition of 13 cesses levied by different central government ministries where the revenue collection is less than Rs.50 crore per year. New Delhi, Feb 29 : Terming tax disputes as a scourge of tax-friendly regime, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, presenting the budget for 2016-17 on Monday, unveiled a new dispute resolution mechanism to minimise litigation. He also said that Income Tax officials will be responsible for higher interest payout if there was a delay in implementing the orders of Appellate authority. He said there were around 300,000 tax cases pending with the First Appellate Authority involving a tax dispute of around Rs.550,000 crore. As per the new dispute resolution mechanism unveiled by Jaitley, a tax payer who has an appeal pending as of Friday before the Commissioner (Appeals) can settle his case by paying the disputed tax and interest up to the date of assessment. There will be no penalty in respect of income tax cases with a disputed tax up to Rs.10 lakh. Accoriding to Jaitley, the cases with disputed tax exceeding Rs.10 lakh will be subjected to only 25 percent of the minimum of the imposable penalty for both direct and indirect taxes. He said any pending appeal against a penalty order can also be settled by paying 25 percent of the minimum of the imposable penalty. However, certain categories of persons including those charged with criminal offences under specific Acts are proposed to be barred from this scheme. With special reference to the government's assurance of not to create retrospectively fresh tax liability, Jaitley reiterated the government's commitment to provide a stable and predictable taxation regime and not create fresh tax liability retrospectively. He proposed one-time scheme of dispute resolution for past cases ongoing under retrospective amendment. One can settle the case by paying only the tax arrears in which case liability of the interest and penalty shall be waived. This is subject to agreeing to withdraw any pending case lying in any Court or Tribunal or any proceeding for arbitration, mediation under Bilateral Investment Protection and Promotion Agreements (BIPA). Identifying that levy of heavy penalty as a cause for a large number of disputes, Jaitley proposed to modify the scheme of penalty by providing different categories of misdemeanour with graded penalty and thereby substantially reducing the discretionary power of the tax officers. The penalty rates will now be 50 percent of tax in case of underreporting of income and 200 percent of the tax where there is misreporting of facts. Remission of penalty is also proposed where taxes are paid and appeal is not filed. Quantification of disallowance of expenditure relatable to exempt income in terms of Section 14A of the Income Tax Act is another issue led to number of disputes. Hence, it has been proposed to rationalize formula in Rule 8D governing such quantification. Jaitley said the Income Tax department was also issuing instruction making it mandatory for the assessing officer to grant stay of demand once the assessee pays 15 percent of the disputed demand while the appeal is pending before Commissioner of Income Tax (Appeals). Jaitley also said the government has accepted many of the recommendations of Justice Easwar Committee. To make the Income Tax officials responsible, Jaitley said the government will pay nine percent interest on where there is a delay in implementing the Appellate orders beyond 90 days. "The officers who delay it will be accountable for this loss to the government," Jaitley said. Kolkata, Feb 29 : The Trinamool Congress on Monday dubbed the 2016-17 Union Budget as "hopeless" and "stereotype", and questioned the Narendra Modi government's transparency over foreign direct investment. "This budget is neither constructive, nor creative. It is a stereotype and routine. We are left with no option but to call it a hopeless budget," the ruling party in West Bengal said in a statement posted on its official website. "No hope for the industry, no hope for the farmers, no hope for the poor, no hope for the middle class, and no hope even for the Sensex." The Trinamool also hit out at the Modi government over the issue of FDI. "Why has the finance minister (Arun Jaitley) not mentioned the details of the changes in the FDI policy in his budget speech? It is shrouded in an annexure and opens up 100 percent FDI in many sectors. Why can't the government be transparent," the TMC asked. "Lots of good prose in the budget, but where are the jobs? Where are the solutions? How will industry benefit? How will agriculture benefit? There are millions of hungry, young, unemployed youth yearning for jobs. Job creation has not been outlined." The party also said there were no major tax reforms to benefit the middle class. "Lots of big words, no real big solutions," said the TMC, which had criticised the railway budget as a "big zero". Kolkata, Feb 29 : The West Bengal unit of the Communist Party of India, a constituent of the Left Front in the state, on Monday said the Congress should first approach the leftist conglomerate with a formal proposal before the alliance process can begin. The West Bengal Pradesh Congress earlier sought an alliance with democratic and secular forces to take on the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party in the coming state polls. "So far, there have only been speculations, suggestions or press statements. But unless there is a formal proposal from the Congress, how can there be an alliance?" CPI state secretary Prabodh Panda told IANS on Monday, a day after state Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury issued a statement on the issue. While Chowdhury's statement called for uniting the democratic and secular forces in West Bengal, state Congress general secretary Om Prakash Mishra made it clear that the call was directed at the CPI-M and other Left Front partners apart from other parties opposed to the BJP and Trinamool Congress. Panda, however, stressed the need for both the camps to approach each other formally. "If there has to be an alliance, people from both the camps need to act, but so far it has only been suggestions or leaders giving a public call, but nothing has been done formally," said Panda, a former Lok Sabha member. CPI veteran Gurudas Dasgupta, who had earlier lamented that the issue was not being discussed with his party, refused to comment. Dasgupta earlier this month said the CPI would decide on the alliance only if there was a proposal, asserting it would do whatever was required to "protect democracy in Bengal". A meeting of Left Front constituents on February 11 put its stamp of approval on holding alliance talks with the Congress, but put the ball in the Congress court by saying it has to approach the combine first with the proposal. On February 18, the CPI-M central committee sought the cooperation of all democratic forces to defeat the Trinamool in the coming assembly polls. Mogadishu, Feb 29 : At least 30 people were killed and 42 injured in twin blasts in popular restaurants in Baidoa town of south-central Bay region of Somalia, officials said on Monday. Mayor of Bay region Abdirashid Abdullahi said that most of those killed were civilians, Xinhua reported. "The toll has risen to 30 with 42 injured, the explosions took place in busy restaurants in the city," Abdullahi said. "We have arrested some people we believe they conducted the attacks. The troops are still launching operations in Baidoa town," the mayor added. Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack. Monday's blasts come after two other massive explosions earlier killed 12 people and injured nearly 30 at a popular restaurant in Mogadishu. Kuala Lumpur, Feb 29 : Former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said he has decided to quit the ruling party United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). Mahathir said he will not join another party or start a new one, Xinhua reported. This is the second time that Mahathir has quit UMNO. He did the same in May 2008 during the tenure of former prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. He rejoined the party when Najib Razak became the prime minister. According to Mahathir, the party was no longer what it used to be and has turned into a party that was dedicated to retaining Razak's position as the prime minister. Mahathir was disappointed over controversies related to the debt-laden state investment company 1MDB (1 Malaysia Development Berhad), whose advisory board is chaired by Najib. There were allegations that tens of millions of US dollars went into the prime minister's personal account. New Delhi, Feb 29 : The Delhi High Court said it will pass an order on Wednesday on the bail plea of JNU student union chief Kanhaiya Kumar, arrested on sedition charges. Justice Pratibha Rani on Monday reserved the order on the bail plea and asked Delhi Police about the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union president's active role during the protest. "Do you have video evidence that Kanhaiya was raising anti-national slogans?" asked the court at which police denied of having any video in this regard. At this, the court pulled up Delhi Police for not showing any evidence where Kanhaiya Kumar could be seen raising anti-national slogans. It also asked why police officers who were present there did not take any action. "When your policemen were present there in the campus in civil dress why don't they take cognizance when anti-national slogans were raised? Why did not they video record it? Why you waited for Zee news video?" asked the court. While, the Delhi Police opposed Kanhaiya's bail plea, the Delhi government prayed the court to grant him bail. Kanhaiya Kumar said that he did not raise any anti-national national slogans and did not lead any protest. Kanhaiya reached the venue when he heard that two groups were quarrelling, said his counsel. Geneva, Feb 29 : Nurul Izzah Anwar, daughter of imprisoned Malaysian politician Anwar Ibrahim, said that her father's relationship with the captain of the missing Malaysia Airlines MH370 flight, Zaharie Ahmad Shah, was coincidental. "The problem we have is we have no way of knowing what the government has done to investigate, to find the actual causes of the crash," Xinhua quoted her saying, days before the second anniversary of flight MH370's disappearance on March 8, 2014. Nurul Izzah said that one of Anwar's sons-in-law, married to her sister, is a Malaysia Airlines pilot which explains why Anwar had met in passing the pilot of the plane flying from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing with 239 people on board. At the time, many speculated that the plane had been hijacked by Zaharie to protest Anwar's upheld conviction to five years in prison on sodomy charges on March 7, 2014. Much attention has been drawn to the link between Anwar, leading figure of the opposition People's Justice Party, and the captain of flight MH370 that went missing the day after Anwar's sentencing. "I understand the anger because a lot of the families did not get adequate explanation from the event. We were pushing for more disclosure in parliament because it's disastrous," Nurul Izzah added. Flight MH370 disappeared with 239 people, including 154 Chinese, on board on its way from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing on March 8, 2014. Kolkata, Feb 29 : The Trinamool Congress on Monday dubbed the 2016-17 Union Budget as "hopeless" and "stereotype", and questioned the Narendra Modi government's transparency over FDI. The West Bengal's ruling party also said there was nothing for the state in the budget. "Looking at the budget, it appears to be directionless, lacks vision, meandering...and definitely not people-centric or pro-poor. As regards West Bengal, we haven't found anything in the budget," said state Finance Minister Amit Mitra. In a statement on its official website, the Mamata Banerjee-led party said the budget presented by union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley is "neither constructive, nor creative, but stereotype(d) and routine". "We are left with no option but to call it a hopeless budget. "No hope for the industry, no hope for the farmers, no hope for the poor, no hope for the middle class, and no hope even for the Sensex," the party said. The Trinamool also hit out at the Modi government over the issue of FDI and accused it of burdening the states on social sector schemes. "Why has the finance minister (Jaitley) not mentioned the details of the changes in the FDI policy in his budget speech? It is shrouded in an annexure and opens up 100 percent FDI in many sectors. Why can't the government be transparent," it asked. "Almost 40 social sector schemes have been stopped and states have been burdened for funding new schemes. Under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sevak Yojana, the centre now will fund only 60 percent as against the earlier 100 percent, thereby burdening the states. "In Bengal where Rs.3,000 crore was spent, the state would now have a burden of Rs.1,200 crore. Is this cooperative federalism?" asked the party. "Lots of good prose in the budget, but where are the jobs? Where are the solutions? How will industry benefit? How will agriculture benefit? There are millions of hungry, young, unemployed youth yearning for jobs. Job creation has not been outlined." The party also said there were no major tax reforms to benefit the middle class. "Lots of big words, no real big solutions," said the Trinamool, which had criticised the railway budget as a "big zero". Islamabad, Feb 29 : Pakistani activist for female education and youngest ever Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai on Monday congratulated Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy for winning second Oscar. Speaking by phone, Malala said the entire nation was proud of Sharmeen Obaid and grateful to her for raising voice for women rights. Internationally known filmmaker from Pakistan, Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy's documentary 'A Girl In The River: The Price of Forgiveness' has won the Oscar at the 88th Academy Award Ceremony. Malala expressed a hope that the Pakistan government would introduce effective legislation against honour killing, The News International reported. New Delhi, Feb 29 : Former chief justice of India H.L. Dattu on Monday took over as the National Human Rights Commission's seventh chairperson, an official release said. Having an illustrious judicial career which included being a judge in the Karnataka High Court, chief justice of the Kerala and Chhattisgarh High Courts till he was elevated to Supreme Court in December 2008 and became CJI on September 28, 2014, he has been associated with several significant judgments of the apex court. On the bench that expanded the Indian jurisprudence on death sentence cases by commuting the capital punishment to terror convict Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar to life term over mental illness and an inordinate delay in deciding his mercy plea by the government, he had also pronounced a landmark verdict in ruling that "bail is the rule and jail an exception" while granting bail to five big corporate leaders in the 2G spectrum allocation case. Giving the verdict along with Justice G.S. Singhvi, he had said: "The courts owe more than verbal respect to the principle that punishment begins after conviction, and that every man is deemed to be innocent until duly tried and duly found guilty." Ludhiana, Feb 29 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had a narrow escape on Monday when the vehicle he was travelling in was attacked with stones and sticks by some men near Ludhiana in Punjab. His Aam Aadmi Party pointed an accusing finger at the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal saying the attack was led by a political assistant of a SAD legislator. Kejriwal, who ended his five-day tour of Punjab on Monday, tweeted that his car was attacked with batons and stones, shattering its windscreen. Punjab Police officials said the Aam Aadmi Party leader, who enjoys Z-plus security cover, was safe and escorted from the spot under tight security. Kejriwal, who was seated alongside the driver in an Innova multi-utility vehicle, was immediately shifted to another car and driven away. "The attack lasted for 3-4 minutes. There were about 30-40 people who carried out the attack," a police official present at the spot told IANS. "Badals and Congress nervous? They can't break my spirits," the Aam Aadmi Party leader added. AAP leader Ashish Khetan called it a "well orchestrated attack" and said the "goons sent by the Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones and rods as the police stood by". "The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was only by God's grace that he escaped unhurt," Khetan added. The AAP put out a photograph showing the shattered windsreen and a visibly worried Punjab Police officer standing close by. The car appeared to be stranded on a rural road, with a police vehicle in front. Kejriwal was on a five-day tour of Punjab, where the AAP has emerged as a major player. The Punjab assembly polls are scheduled for February next year. Punjab AAP leaders blamed the ruling Akali Dal for the attack. "The car of the Aam Aadmi Party's convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been attacked with stones and lathis by Akali activists led by Amandeep Singh Aulakh, political assistant of Dakha MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali, while the cavalcade was just leaving Whistling Wuds Resorts on the Ferozepur Road, after a function organised by the industry and traders today (Monday)," AAP leader for Ludhiana zone C.M. Lakhanpal said in a statement. "The windscreen of Kejriwal's car was completely damaged. He had a miraculous escape. The attackers continued the attack on the car for around 3-4 minutes in the presence of police till the AAP volunteers, part of the security team, foiled the attack," Lakhanpal said. The AAP leadership blamed the Punjab Police for allowing the attackers to reach the security area, from where the cavalcade was to leave, "under a pre-hatched conspiracy". "The involvement of the SAD MLA's PA was confirmed and the police allowed them to escape from the scene. No attacker was arrested on the spot, where a large police force was present," the AAP leader said, adding that the Shiromani Akali Dal-BJP combine and the Congress were "completely frustrated due to public response to Kejriwal's visits in all parts of Punjab". They said "the attack was pre-planned and the attackers had full information about the entry and exit points of the AAP leaders". The AAP leadership pointed out that the BJP supporters held a protest at the venue while the Akali Dal workers attacked Kejriwal's motorcade. "Such cowardly attacks cannot deter the Aam Aadmi Party from continuing its activities and programmes in Punjab, which are attracting overwhelming response from the people," Lakhanpal said. Workers and supporters of the Akali Dal-BJP combine and the Congress held protests against Kejriwal during his visit. During his earlier visit to Punjab last month, there was a security lapse as the Punjab government did not provide security to the Delhi chief minister while he was travelling back to Delhi. Panaji, Feb 29 : The mining industry in Goa on Monday said the budgetary proposal to abolish export duty on low grade iron ore would give it a leg up at a time of global downturn. "It was long overdue. The entire business of iron ore is undergoing fierce competition following the global price crash. This will put the industry in the state in position to compete with global competition," Glenn Kalavampara, spokesperson of the Goa Mineral Ore Exporters Association (GMOEA), told IANS. Iron ore mining is an industry worth thousands of crores of rupees in Goa. Kalavampara said doing away with export duty was just one of the measures needed to aid the mining industry, which had of late grappled with a massive mining scam, a prolonged ban on mining, and falling global prices of iron ore. Presenting the budget for 2016-17 in the Lok Sabha on Monday, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley announced dropping of 10 per cent tax on fines of grades with 58 percent content or less and abolishing 30 percent levy on lower grade lumps. The bulk of iron ore mined in Goa has been of inferior FE content, which was exported to markets in China and Japan, with very little sourced for domestic consumption. The abolition of the 30 per cent export levy and the dropping of the 10 per cent tax on iron ore fines of less than 58 per cent are expected to help the mining industry to export their ore at competitive prices. "None of the domestic consumers use Goa ore. We were hoping for this correction to take place for quite a while," Kalavampara said. Since 2012, the mining industry in Goa suffered multiple closure orders from the state and the central government. It was eventually banned by the Supreme Court in the same year after the Justice M.B. Shah Commission exposed a Rs.35,000 crore illegal mining scam in Goa's mining sector. The commission's report said a network of Goa's politicians, bureaucrats and mining companies have been involved in illegal mining on a massive scale. The ban was lifted and mining eventually resumed in 2015, but falling global prices put another dampener on the industry. London, Feb 29 : Around 74,000 shops, employing more than 900,000 workers in Britain's retail sector, are under threat, the British Retail Consortium (BRC) warned on Monday. The consortium, which represents high street stores, said the introduction by Chancellor George Osborne of a new compulsory national minimum wage, as well a new apprenticeship levy, will deliver the blow to the retail sector which currently employs three million workers, Xinhua reported. The BRC said the rate of change in retail is set to quicken as the digital revolution reshapes the industry, more property leases come up for renewal and the cost of labour goes up, while the cost of technology goes down. "These effects could mean there are as many as 900,000 fewer jobs in retail by 2025 but those that remain will be more productive and higher earning," said the study. Businessman Theo Paphitis, chairman of Ryman Stationery, said: "This report shows that without a major rethink by the government around the business rates system and the apprenticeship levy, together with careful consideration of the National Living Wage, the trading conditions for retail are set to worsen significantly." "The most vulnerable people and places will be impacted. The government will need to work hard to mitigate their impact," he said. The report warned store closures on British high streets could exacerbate the impact on employment in already fragile communities with weaker regions and the most vulnerable low-paid staff most at risk. The BRC has recommended changes to mitigate the impact, including reforming the business rates system, ensuring the remit of the Low Pay Commission is strengthened and greater employer leadership of the apprenticeship levy, including more discretion for employers over how and where it is spent. Helen Dickinson, CEO of the consortium, said: "The more significant insights in this report lie in where and how these changes may happen and the differential impact they are likely to have on people and places across the country. We would like to work with government to manage the impact of the changes on the most vulnerable." New Delhi, Feb 29 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said there was nothing in the 2016-17 general budget for farmers who were committing suicide across the country. "Farmers are in debt. The loans of rich industrialists have been waived off but not of the farmers. There is nothing for the farmers in the budget," Kejriwal said in a tweet while reacting to the budget presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the Lok Sabha here. Merely opening up stores of generic medicines (in the country) would not work, Kejriwal said. Dispensaries should be set up in every village for free treatment, he added. He said that the middle class was also cheated in the budget. "There is nothing for the middle class in this budget. The Modi government cheated the middle class which votes for them," he said in a series of tweets. "The Bharatiya Janata Party vowed to bring back black money through enforcement, not through amnesty schemes. This is what (the then finance minister) Chidambaram also did. What is the difference?" he asked on his Twitter handle. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia also expressed disappointment over the budget and said: "The people of Delhi have been cheated again as there is no special amount for us." "We had discussed with the minister (Jaitley) about the financial condition of Delhi and demanded money for the (three) municipal corporations and public transport but did not get anything," he said. The AAP leader said the municipal corporations here were grappling with acute financial crisis. "They (central government) have money for Punjab and Haryana municipal corporations but nothing for us," he remarked. He said that "only Rs.5 crore had been allotted for disaster management in Delhi, which is peanuts." Jaipur/New Delhi, Feb 29 : A Pakistani delegation that came here to meet prisoners in Jaipur Central Jail was denied access as no official from the union home ministry was travelling with it. "The incident occurred on February 25 when the delegation came here to meet the Pakistani prisoners. They were denied entry as per protocol that a team of the home ministry has to accompany them, but they (home ministry team) were not able to reach that day," an official of Rajasthan Prisons Department told IANS. "So, as per rules the Pakistani delegation was not allowed to meet them," he added. According to an official from the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, "the four-member team had permission from the Ministry of External Affairs to give counsellor access to Pakistani prisoners but they were denied access to the Pakistani prisoners." The Pakistani High Commission official said there are 25 Pakistani prisoners in Jaipur jail, but a Jaipur Central Jail official said only 11 Pakistani prisoners are lodged there. I've been told so many stories about why we have daylight savings in America, the stupid tradition is baffling. California is considering doing away with the odd, and annoying bi-annual clock shift. The Sacramento Bee shares some of the confused history of this questionable practice: Mumbai, Feb 29 : Airline major Jet Airways on Monday informed that it will increase operations between India and Oman by launching a daily flight between Delhi and Muscat with effect from March 21. "With the launch of this flight, Jet Airways guests from Northern India, Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) regions will have the option of travelling to Oman via Delhi," said Gaurang Shetty, senior vice-president-commercial, Jet Airways. According to the company, with the launch of the new flight, it will operate a total of four daily flights between India and Muscat. This includes flights from Mumbai, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. Ramallah/Gaza, Feb 29 : At least 38 Palestinians were arrested by Israeli security forces on Monday in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, sources said. The Palestinian Prisoners Club said that the Israeli army arrested 27 Palestinians in raids in the West Bank cities of Ramallah, Hebron, Nablus and Jenin, Xinhua reported. The Israeli public radio reported that nine of the arrested Palestinians were accused of taking part in violent acts, seven of whom belong to the Islamic Hamas movement. The Israeli forces seized an M16 assault rifle, a pistol and ammunition during a raid in Hebron in the West Bank. On the same day, two Palestinians were arrested after infiltrating into southern Israel, through the security barrier with Gaza, reported the radio. Palestinian fishermen's captain, Nizar Ayyash, said that Israeli naval forces arrested nine fishermen working off the Gaza coasts, after surrounding the boats. All of whom belong to the same family. The Israeli forces took the fishermen to an Israeli port, Ayyash said. Israeli naval forces often apprehend and question Palestinian fishermen under the pretext of arms smuggling through the Gaza sea. Following a cease-fire agreement in August 2014 that ended a 50 days of offensive on Gaza, Israel allowed Palestinian fishermen to sail as far as six nautical miles offshore, and said would expand the allowed area gradually. Ludhiana, Feb 29 : Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had a narrow escape on Monday when the vehicle he was travelling in was attacked with stones and sticks by some men near Ludhiana in Punjab. Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal ordered a probe into the incident. Pointing an accusing finger at the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said the attack was a "conspiracy hatched by the Akalis to kill Kejriwal". The AAP held Badal responsible for the attack. Kejriwal, who ended his five-day tour of Punjab on Monday, tweeted that his car was attacked with batons and stones, shattering its windscreen. Police said the chief minister, who enjoys Z-plus security cover, was safe and escorted from the spot. Kejriwal was seated alongside the driver in an Innova multi-utility vehicle when the attack took place. He was immediately shifted to another car and driven away. "The attack lasted for 3-4 minutes. There were about 30-40 people who carried out the attack," a police official present at the spot told IANS. Senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh demanded a high-level probe by a high court judge into the attack. "It was a well-planned conspiracy hatched by Akalis to eliminate Kejriwal, who has emerged as 'masiha' for the people of Punjab," he said. He alleged that the attack took place at Sukhbir Badal's behest. "The presence of Harkinder Singh, younger brother of Ludhiana MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali, apart from Youth Akali leaders Amandeep Singh Aulakh and Prabhdeep Singh Mangat, is enough indication for the conspiracy by Akalis to 'kill' Kejriwal," the AAP leader said. He accused the Punjab Police of being "hand-in-glove in the conspiracy", saying they "deliberately guided the convoy to an unscheduled route on the pretext of safety where more than 100 goons were waiting for the attack". On his part, Kejriwal tweeted earlier: "Badals and Congress nervous? They can't break my spirits." AAP leader Ashish Khetan called it a "well orchestrated attack" and said the "goons sent by the Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones and rods as the police stood by". "The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was only by god's grace that he escaped unhurt." Condemning the incident, Sukhbir Badal, who is also Punjab's home minister, said due action would be taken against the attackers. "I have directed the police to register a case against the stone pelters and take action immediately," he said in a statement. Badal directed the Punjab DGP to inquire if there was any lapse on the part of the security apparatus provided to the AAP leader. "The Punjab government is committed to providing adequate security to Kejriwal during his visits to Punjab," he said. He denied that the Akali Dal was behind the attack. Kejriwal was on a five-day tour of Punjab, where the AAP has emerged as a major player. The Punjab assembly polls are scheduled for February next year. The AAP leadership pointed out that BJP supporters held a protest at the venue while the Akali Dal workers attacked Kejriwal's motorcade. Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh said the Congress had nothing to do with the attack. During his visit to Punjab last month, the Punjab government did not provide security to Kejriwal while he was travelling back to Delhi. Kolkata, Feb 29 : The Congress on Monday said it has started informal seat sharing talks with the Left Front for the coming West Bengal assembly polls, but conceded there were "difficulties" in the way, even as the LF constituents seemed divided on how to get the ball rolling on an electoral pact. An important LF partner, the Revolutionary Socialist Party said the coalition would meet on Wednesday to discuss the issue, in the wake of state Congress president Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury's statement on Sunday calling for the unity of secular and democratic forces to take on the ruling Trinamool Congress and the "communal" Bharatiya Janata Party. Though Chowdhury did not name either the LF or its spearhead, the Communist Party of India-Marxist, another senior Congress leader had made it clear that the state party chief's appeal was targeted at them. But while the RSP on Monday welcomed Chowdhury's statement, another LF partner, the Communist Party of India said the Congress should approach the LF first with a formal proposal - instead of issuing statements - to set the alliance talks rolling. State Congress general secretary and spokesperson Om Prakash Mishra said both camps were determined to seal off an understanding, but stressed the basis for the seat sharing lay in a "proportionate sharing of pain and pleasure". "Informal talks with the Left Front have begun but there are difficulties on the issue of seat sharing. However, both the camps realise the fact that seat sharing has to be on the basis of proportionate sharing of pain and pleasure,' Mishra told IANS. "Both the camps are determined to reach at a conclusion, for our mutual goal is to dismantle the ruling Trinamool. The formal talks will begin very soon and we are confident of ironing out the differences," he said. The RSP said Chowdhury's statement indicated positive intent on the part of the Congress. "We have gone through Adhir's statement and it signifies the Congress' positive intent. We are treating it as a formal proposal and initiated discussions in our party. The Front will be meeting on March 2 when we will discuss the issue," RSP state secretary Kshiti Goswami told IANS. He said the discussions would be long drawn, but hoped for a positive outcome. "It will be a long drawn process, a lot of things need to be considered, and hopefully there will be a positive outcome. If an alliance happens it will be good. But if such an arrangement doesn't materialise, the Front is ready to take on the Trinamool on its own," he added. CPI state secretary Prabodh Panda said both camps need to approach each other formally and the Congress should take the first step. "So far, there have only been speculations, suggestions or press statements. But unless there is a formal proposal from the Congress, how can there be an alliance?" Panda told IANS. "If there has to be an alliance, people from both the camps need to act, but so far it has only been suggestions or leaders giving a public call, but nothing has been done formally," said Panda, a former Lok Sabha member. A meeting of Left Front constituents on February 11 put its stamp of approval on holding alliance talks with the Congress, but put the ball in the Congress court by saying it has to approach the combine first with the proposal. On February 18, the CPI-M central committee sought the cooperation of all democratic forces to defeat the Trinamool in the coming assembly polls. Thane (Maharashtra), Feb 29 : A day after the macabre massacre of 14 members of his own family by an income tax consultant who later hanged himself, police are still looking for the motive behind the crime, a top official said on Monday. Joint Police Commissioner Ashutosh Dumbare said investigations from all angles were underway. Even the suspected property dispute angle has not yet emerged in the probe yet. The police are waiting to record the statement of the sole survivor, Sabia Shoaib Bharmal, 21, the official said. Sabia was attacked along with other family members with a long knife by her elder brother Hasnain Anwar Warekar, 32, the income tax consultant. "We have seized his mobile phones and a laptop. We are ascertaining with whom he was in contact and for what purposes," Dumbare told the media on Monday evening. Dumbare denied there were any indications that the deeply religious Hasnain could have been influenced by some extremist ideology or was radicalised. Wielding a large knife, usually used for sacrificing goats during Bakr-i Eid, Hasnain butchered 14 members of his family around 3 a.m. on Sunday. Those slaughtered included his aged parents, his wife and two minor daughters, three sisters and six nieces and nephews. He alleged spiked their food and sedated them before slitting their throats. Bharmal, who was not sedated like her other family members, is said to have fended off the attack by her brother and locked herself in one of the bedrooms from where she screamed for help. Local youths of Kasarvadavli area who heard her screams informed police and later managed to break open a grilled window to rescue Bharmal and rushed her to a private Titan Hospital nearby. Police have sent food and blood samples collected from the house for forensic tests and preserved the viscera of the victims to help unravel the plan and motive behind the gruesome killings. New Delhi, Feb 29 : The Supreme Court on Monday asked a Maharashtra court to hold daily hearings into the trial of Delhi University professor G.N. Saibaba from March 4 so as to record the statements of eight material witnesses within a month. Saibaba has been accused of links with Revolutionary Democrats Front - an alleged front organisation of the banned Communist Party of India-Maoist. Directing the trial court to "positively" record the statements of eight material witnesses, an apex court bench of Justice Jagdish Singh Khehar and Justice C. Nagappan said: "At the present moment, we consider it just and appropriate to direct the trial court to hold day-to-day trial with effect from March 4, 2016, so as to record the statements of all material witnesses." Directing the listing of the matter before it on April 4, the court said, "The statements of the material witnesses be positively concluded before the next date of hearing." The apex court also recorded the names of eight witnesses: Shrikant Pochreddi Gaddewar, Ravindra Manohar Kumbhare, Ramesh K. Yede, Raju Poriya Atram, Atul Shantaram Avhad, Suhas Prakash Bawche, N.G. Vyas (JMFC, Aheri) and Apekha Ramteke. The court order for day-to-day proceedings came as senior counsel R.S. Cheema, appearing for Saibaba, told the court that the arrested Delhi University professor was 90 percent physically incapacitated and there was also a controversy over his client's life-threatening ailment. As the bench said this view was not endorsed by the prosecution, Cheema took the court through the medical records of Saibaba to buttress his point. In a related matter, involving summoning of author turned social activist Arundhati Roy in a contempt plea, the court said it would hear the matter on July 12, 2016. Roy was issued notice by the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court on a contempt plea by a lawyer who alleged that Roy's article in an English magazine was "interference in the administration of justice". Roy in her article wrote, "So afraid is the government of this paralysed wheelchair-bound academic that the Maharashtra Police had to abduct him for arrest". Saibaba was arrested by Maharashtra Police in May 2015 for alleged Maoist links. He challenged the December 23, 2015, order of the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court rejecting his plea for regular bail. Rejecting the bail plea, the high court's Nagpur bench said: "There is a prima facie case against the applicant based on strong evidence and in fact, the applicant, who is an intellectual, has used his intelligentsia for anti-national activities for which there is strong evidence against him as discussed and, therefore, the case of the applicant cannot be considered on the ground of parity." Saibaba was released on interim bail on health grounds by the Bombay High Court which treated as a public interest litigation an email based on a newspaper report on his failing health condition. Saibaba suffers from 90 percent disability due to post-polio paralysis. The interim bail was extended till December 31 as the court asked him to approach the Nagpur bench for regular bail. The other accused in the case had already been granted bail. However, when Saibaba moved for regular bail, the application was rejected on December 23. He was asked to surrender at the Nagpur Central Jail within two days. Kolkata, Feb 29 : Celebrating the "madness of earth", a rather off-beat photography contest took viewers off-the-beaten track through jagged rock formations, fractures, fissures and all kinds of structures that accord geological features a distinctive personality. Organised by Jadavpur University's Department of Geological Sciences, the day-long maiden 'Geogony' event on Monday saw lectures, quiz contests and a photography competition as well. Termed "Photographie", the contest received more than 30 entries from students all across the country. "Geogony, as the name indicates, gives us an abstract idea of the formation of the earth. Through this event we try to introduce the idea that there's a method in everything we term as madness about the earth," a member of the organising team told IANS. From shales along river beds, needle-like shapes on metamorphic rocks, ridges and grooves, a bendy quartzite, pillow-shaped lava structures with vesicles, horse-headed rock formation caused by wind erosion to a hermit crab inside a gastropod shell, the pictures capture geology in all its joy, the organisers said. Kolkata, Feb 29 : Fancy strolling through a charming Victorian-era neighbourhood in the city and soaking in some Ray nostalgia surrounded by posters of "Pather Panchali", "Goopy Gyne Bagha Byne" and other iconic films by Satyajit Ray? On Monday, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee unveiled a spruced-up 150 metre stretch of Bishop Lefroy Road in south Kolkata - the location of the legend's celebrated residence, where he lived during the last two decades of his life till his death in 1992. It is the very place where the multifaceted personality (screenwriter, lyricist, music composer, calligrapher, illustrator, writer) worked on cult films like "Agantuk", "Pratidwandi", "Ghare Baire" and others. A popular tourist destination, the colossal 1/1 Bishop Lefroy Road residence is a timeless reminder to the legacy of the master behind cinematic jewels such as "Shatranj Ke Khiladi", "Charulata", the Apu trilogy, and the Feluda series among others. It stands as a silent testimony to the man who took Indian cinema to the world. The locality has undergone a major makeover to accord a Ray touch. From re-laying the dilapidated pavements with designer blocks , installing Victorian-era street lights to replica of his film's original posters, the famous locality has been transformed in consultation with filmmaker and son Sandip. In addition, Banerjee has requested the Kolkata Municipal Corporation to rename Lee Road after Satyajit Ray in his honour. Ray became the first, and currently only, Indian to receive an Honorary Academy Award in 1992. Madrid, Feb 29 : The bad news continued to pile up for Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane with the confirmation on Monday that striker Karim Benzema will be out of action for the next three weeks with a hamstring injury in his right leg. Benzema, who has scored 23 goals this season, was forced to leave the pitch after just 45 minutes of Saturday's Madrid derby, which Real lost 0-1 at home to local rivals Atletico Madrid in the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, reports Xinhua. Tests carried out on Monday morning confirmed the extent of his injury, which means Benzema will miss La Liga games against Levante, Celta Vigo and Las Palmas and is in a serious doubt for the following game, which is against Sevilla. Benzema will also miss the return leg of the Champions League last-16 game at home to Roma, although Real Madrid take a comfortable lead into that match. The loss of the French striker is added to that of Gareth Bale and Marcelo, who are both out with calf injuries, while Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal are both suspended for Wednesday's league game away to bottom of the table, Levante. Vatican City, Feb 29 : Pope Francis on Monday called on world leaders to "promote peaceful coexistence" in the face of what he called "a devastating outbreak of violence against Christians". He made the remarks during an audience at the Vatican with the leader of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Pope Matthias I. "Today too, you are witnessing a devastating outbreak of violence against Christians and other minorities in the Middle East and in some parts of Africa," Pope Francis said. "We cannot fail, yet again, to implore those who govern the world's political and economic life to promote a peaceful coexistence based on reciprocal respect and reconciliation, mutual forgiveness and solidarity." Cheap Internet of Things devices like Foscam's home CCTVs are designed to covertly tunnel out of your home network, bypassing your firewall, so they can join a huge P2P network of 7 million other devices that is maintained and surveilled by their Chinese manufacturer. Foscam's terrible design decision to have their devices transmit a "heartbeat" to the manufacturer and link with one another is an egregious example of the routine practice of IoT companies to "ignore security and/or privacy concerns," but it's hardly unique. What makes Foscam's negligence so breathtaking, though, is that their crapgadgets actually have a setting to turn this stuff off, but that setting does nothing. Apparently I'm not alone in my bafflement. Nicholas Weaver, a senior researcher in networking and security for the International Computer Science Institute (ICSI), called the embedded P2P feature "an insanely bad idea" all around. "It opens up all Foscam users not only to attacks on their cameras themselves (which may be very sensitive), but an exploit of the camera also enables further intrusions into the home network," Weaver said. "Given the seemingly cavalier attitude and the almost certain lack of automatic updates, it is almost certain that these devices are remotely exploitable," he added. "It is no wonder that Director of National Intelligence James Clapper is worried about the Internet of Things, how many government officials have or may unwittingly install potential spies like this in their home." This is Why People Fear the 'Internet of Things' [Brian Krebs/Krebs on Security] New Delhi, Feb 29 : As the central government on Monday announced an increase in excise duty on tobacco products by 10-15 percent in the 2016-17 general budget to discourage increasing consumption, people from various strata lauded the decision. Taxes should have been more stringent for better regulation of the tobacco product consumption, they said. They even urged the government to hike taxes on 'bidis' as these continued to remain the most preferred tobacco product for smoking in rural India. "The effective increase in total excise on cigarettes has only been 10 percent. It is disappointing when compared with the 15-25 percent increase in the last year's budget and 11-72 percent increase in the year before," said Rijo John, assistant professor of Economics at the Indian Institute of Technology-Jodhpur. Talking about no increase in taxation on 'bidis', John said: "Bidis do not get adequate attention from a fiscal collection point of view and are ignored in every budget with policy-makers claiming that increasing taxes on 'bidis' will affect the livelihood of millions who depend on the trade." Bhavna Mukhopadhyay, chief executive of Voluntary Health Association of India, said: "India is one of the very few countries where cigarettes have become more affordable over the past few years. Moreover, by not effecting any increases in bidi taxes, the government is forgoing a wonderful opportunity to help the cause of public health in the country." According to a recent government decision, specific rates of excise duty on cigars and cheroots, cigarillos, cigarettes of tobacco substitute and other forms of tobacco substitutes are being increased by about 10 percent. Excise duty on gutkha (chewing tobacco, including filter khaini) and zarda (scented tobacco) is being increased from 70 percent to 81 percent, excise duty on unprocessed tobacco is being increased from 55 percent to 64 percent, and excise duty on pan masala increased from 16 percent to 19 percent. Pankaj Chaturvedi of Tata Memorial Hospital said, "It is sad that the government continues to subsidise bidis which are responsible for nearly six lakh deaths every year." However, the Tobacco Institute of India condemned the government decision to hike taxation on tobacco products and called it extremely disappointing. "It is extremely disappointing that the 2016-17 general budget, on the back of four successive years of steep duty increases, has once again raised the excise duty on cigarettes," said institute director Syed Mahmood Ahmad. Calling the government's decision discriminatory against cigarettes, he said it was a matter of deep concern, particularly due to the fact that 'bidis', the most popular tobacco product in rural India, have once again been spared with no increase in tax after 2012-13. As per their estimates, nearly 70 percent of tobacco consumption in the country is largely in the unorganised sector which does not pay any tax either due to exemptions or evasion. "The increase in excise duty on cigarettes, at a per unit level, has gone up cumulatively by 98 percent, which is exerting severe pressure on the legal cigarette industry even as illegal trade grows unabated," said Ahmad in a statement. He said the high taxation is also a major blow to the livelihood of lakhs of tobacco farmers, who have been facing unprecedented hardships due to a continuous drop in demand for their produce due to the shrinking domestic legal cigarette industry. Kolkata, Feb 29 : South Kolkata's Lee Road will be renamed Satyajit Ray Dharani after the legendary film director, who lived in the vicinity, West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee announced here on Monday. Ray resided close to Lee Road on Bishop Lefroy Road for years till his death in 1992, and many of his masterpieces were planned and conceived from this house. "As a token of our humble dedication to the memory and phenomenal contribution of legendary personality Satyajit Ray, we have decided to rename Lee Road, near Bishop Lefroy Road where his house stands, as 'Satyajit Ray Dharani'," Banerjee said in a Facebook post. The Kolkata Municipal Corporation Mayor-in-Council held an important meeting during the day and passed a resolution rechristening the road after Ray. Earlier, Banerjee unveiled a spruced-up 150 metre stretch of Bishop Lefroy Road. The multifaceted genius (screenwriter, lyricist, music composer, calligrapher, illustrator, writer) worked on cult films like "Agantuk", "Pratidwandi", "Ghare Baire" and others. A popular tourist destination, the colossal 1/1 Bishop Lefroy Road residence is a timeless reminder to the legacy of the master behind cinematic jewels such as "Shatranj Ke Khiladi", "Charulata", the Apu trilogy, and the Feluda series among others. It stands as a silent testimony to the man who took Indian cinema to the world. The locality has undergone a major makeover to accord a Ray touch. From re-laying the dilapidated pavements with designer blocks , installing Victorian-era street lights to replica of his film's original posters, the famous locality has been transformed in consultation with filmmaker and son Sandip. Ray became the first, and currently only, Indian to receive an Honorary Academy Award in 1992. Baghdad, Feb 29 : At least 17 people were killed and 41 others were injured on Monday in a suicide bomb attack in Iraq's eastern province of Diyala, a provincial security source told Xinhua. The suicide bomber wearing an explosive vest detonated himself at a funeral tent in the Shiite village of Brishtah, 100 km northeast of the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, the source said on condition of anonymity. He added that provincial security authorities imposed a curfew and intensified security measures in numerous villages and towns in the area, including Maqdadiyah, to prevent potential retaliatory attacks. IS has frequently targeted crowded areas, including markets, cafes and mosques throughout Iraq. Iraq is currently witnessing a wave of violence since IS took over areas of Iraq's northern and western regions in June 2014. A United Nations report estimated that over 22,300 people were either killed or injured in armed conflict in Iraq in 2015. New Delhi, Feb 29 : The Supreme Court on Monday said that it could not decriminalise a penal provision to punish hate speech as the government opposed BJP leader Subramanian Swamy's plea challenging constitutional validity of two sections of the Indian Penal Code providing for curbing hate speech and activities prejudicial to the maintenance of peace and harmony. "Can we decriminalise the law? It can't be that there can't be a law to punish" the hate speech, observed a bench of Justice Anil R. Dave and Justice A.K.Goel as it asked Swamy to approach the high court to raise his challenge to sections 153A and 295A of the IPC. "Have you challenged the validity before the high court? Let the high court first decide," said the bench. Opposing the plea by Swamy challenging the validity of section 153A, Solicitor General Ranjit Kumar told the court that his plea against the section was along with his prayer for the quashing of non-bailable warrants (NBW) against him. "If the prayer for the quashing of the NBW is not granted, then other prayers do not become PIL," he told the bench, adding that his plea for the quashing of NBW is pending before the high court and he can amend it and raise his challenge to section 153SA there also. Section 153A provides for punishment "with imprisonment which may extend to five years and shall also be liable to fine" for "promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc., and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony" while section 295A provides for punishment with imprisonment up to four years or with fine, or with both for "Deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage reliAgious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs". Urging the court to hear his challenge to the provisions, Swamy said: "When the matter is about the fundamental right or the constitutionality of an penal provision, the question is whether I should be denied my fundamental right of freedom of speech and expression." Telling the court that cases were filed against him out of political vendetta, he said that there was a "reckless misuse" of the provision by the previous UPA. The case against Swamy relates to his March 2015 comments at Assam's Kaziranga University wherein he had said that mosques were just buildings with no religious sentiments attached to them and could be pulled down anytime. During a programme in Guwahati, Swamy had also said that in Saudi Arabia, mosques, if required, are pulled down and constructed at other places. Following a complaint, a case was registered against Swamy on charges of conspiracy and promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion. Swamy has contended the provision of both sections are vaguely worded and were prone to be misused as was Section 66A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 which was recently read down by the apex court. He said that there has to be a distinction between the incitement or advocacy and the expression of opinion. Bengaluru, Feb 29 : Software majors TCS and Wipro on Monday lauded Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for extending tax benefit to export units under the Special Economic Zone (SEZ) scheme till 2020 and the government's Digital India plans in his budget for 2016-17. "The FM has delivered a fiscally responsible budget.The extension of SEZ scheme till 2020 and reduced tax at 10 percent for global revenues generated by India-registered IPR (Intellectual Property Rights) will energise entrepreneurship," Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) chief executive N. Chandrasekaran said in a statement from Mumbai. Presenting the budget, Jaitley said the benefit of section 10AA to new SEZ units would be available to those units which commence activity before March 30, 2020. On the budget proposal to use digital platforms to connect farmers with their ecosystem, Chandrasekaran said the technology-led plan would bootstrap the Indian heartland into the digital age. "The plan to use digital technology from administering taxes to issuing secure education certificates is heartening. Jaitley has presented a forward-looking budget and I will give it 8/10 rate," he added. Terming the government's response to the software industry's representation on the sunset date on SEZ units positive, Wipro chief financial office (CFO) Jatin Dalal said its extension would be beneficial owing the gestation time taken to operationalise production units. "I also applaud the efforts to increase the use of technology in e-governance and steps taken towards digital inclusion. I welcome the special patent regime, which will encourage research and lead to generation of IP in the country," Dalal said in a statement here. Manipal Global Education chairman and former Infosys director T. V. Mohandas Pai commended the government for incentivising the startup ecosystem through budget pronouncement. "The government recognizes that startups can be powerful problem solvers for myriad issues facing the country and in turn generate jobs as well," he said in a statement here. The budget proposes to assist startups propagation through 100 percent deduction of profits for 3 out of 5 years for startups set up during April 2016 to March 2019, as they generate employment, bring innovation and are expected to be key partners in Make in India programme. "Though there are no major sops in the budget for the software product industry, the government should understand that incentives to this (product) segment will result in an exponential leap in exports and place India in a strong position on the world software product stage," Nucleus Software Exports Ltd managing director Vishnu Dusad said in a statement here. Noting that the budget had not treated technology in isolation but integrated its effective use across strategic imperatives in keeping with the intent of a Digital India, chip maker Intel's South Asia managing director Debjani Ghosh said Jaitley had focused on bridging the divide between the haves and have nots. "The budget has laid emphasis on governance reforms and ease of doing business, while highlighting the need for enhancing educational skills in order to make India a knowledge-based economy," she said in a statement here. Disappointed over reducing incentives on R&D, Ghosh said sops were critical for India to be one of the most innovative countries and such a reduction could be detrimental in building the country as an innovation hub. "I urge the government to re-consider this move, as any restriction on the R&D ecosystem is likely to decelerate innovation and restrain the ambitious Make in India and Digital India vision," Ghosh added. Thiruvananthapuram : Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, who has been beleaguered by a string of graft allegations against him and his cabinet minister, finally has something to cheer about as the Thiruvananthapuram Vigilance Court on Monday orally observed that there appeared to be no evidence on record implicating the Chief Minister in the Pattoor land grab case. Vigilance Inquiry Commissioner and Special Judge John K Illikadan made the observation while considering the petition filed by Leader of the Opposition V S Achuthanandan. However, even as the Vigilance judge observed that there was no violation of norms in the order issued by the government for shifting the pipelines of Kerala Water Authority (KWA), he identified irregularities in land transactions. Damningly for the UDF government, the court categorically stated that there was prima facie evidence to prove that 16.8 cents of public land was encroached upon by certain private parties. The court posted the case for further hearing on March 29, putting off a decision on the case until the Lokayukta considered the investigation report. The Pattoor land grab case pertains to allegations that the UDF government helped a realtor company appropriate government land. The realtor had allegedly erected an edifice over property through which ran a sewage pipeline. The charge against the government is that it shifted the pipeline at the behest of the realtor to enable the latter to usurp public land belonging to the KWA. V S Achuthanandan had moved the Vigilance Court accusing Oommen Chandy and other officials including former Chief Secretary Bharat Bhushan of violating the rules of business to help the realtor usurp 30 cents of public land vested with the KWA. A Vigilance team that looked into the land grab case had submitted a report confirming irregularities in 2010. However, the government pleader, on Saturday, rejected the findings of the report, saying that the Vigilance team was incompetent to deal with the issue. Mogadishu, March 1 : Somalia's security forces on Monday arrested six Al-Shabaab suspects in connection with the twin blast in the Baidoa town in south-Somalia's central Bay region. Abdullahi Ali Watin, District Commissioner of Baidoa town, told reporters that the security forces conducted massive operations against terrorist elements in the town, and held six members of the militant group of Al-Shabaab, whom they believe masterminded the deadly attacks. "Some of the suspects have been questioned and are giving crucial information. This is initial progress, but further investigation is continuing," Xinhua quoted Watin as saying. Al-Shabaab militants carried out two heavy explosions at social gatherings situated in the center of Baidoa town Sunday, killing over 30 and injuring 42 others. Both the Somalia government and AU mission in Somalia have condemned the attacks. British people looking to buy a property in France this year are being urged not to worry about the vote on the UK staying in the European Union due to take place in June. There have been scare stories about what might happen if the UK leave the EU bit according to agents in France very little is likely to change. Indeed, they are reporting an uptick in inquiries which suggests that in reality potential buyers are not worried. According to Trevor Leggett, chairman of Leggett Immobilier which has agents across France, there has been no slowdown in demand from UK purchasers and activity is 40% higher than 12 months ago which was a record year. Our view is that even if the vote was to leave the EU there would be little in the way of substantial change. The polls suggest it will be tight but tipped towards an In vote, said Leggett. According to Sextant French property even if the public vote to leave the EU nothing would happen suddenly. There would be a period of negotiations over benefits, pensions and healthcare which might affect expats but not necessarily second home owners. The firm has just reported a record year with an estimated 800,000 sales made in 2015, and buyers are making the most of current market conditions which include favourable exchange rates, low mortgage rates and low prices. A Brexit would not stop you from buying your dream house across the Channel. Nany non-EU buyers from as far flung destinations as Australia and China already buy in France undeterred. The Brexit uncertainties lie largely in tax arrangements, obtaining mortgages and the potential weakening of the pound, said a Sextant spokesman. Tax arrangements will depend on negotiations in the grace period following the referendum, though happily double taxation agreements will remain unchanged, ensuring you will never be taxed twice on your income, he explained. In the short term run up to the referendum certainly, the pound could drop as uncertainty and instability will always disturb the markets to some extent. Once an outcome has been reached, we can hope that the markets have enough confidence to begin to level out, he added. For British people living in France there may not be much change. If the UK votes to leave it is highly likely that it will become a member of the European Economic Area (EEA). Iceland and Norway are already members. EEA membership could also result in retention of the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) card and thus access to healthcare at the same rate as currently. The UK has never been part of the Schengen agreement of totally free border control so nothing would change. Whichever way the UK votes, at Sextant we don't believe British interest in buying French property will be dampened, nor do we believe that the dream will become unattainable or unviable, he concluded. Digital printing allows customers to order low count runs quickly and still at an affordable price. Captain Notepad (http://www.captainnotepad.com), a producer of image personalized calendars, custom notepads, magnetic notepads, and other promotional items, today released its review of the 2016 trends for customized notepads including digital printing and the new products associated with its printing capabilities. Captain Notepad has seen an increase demand for digital printing. As seen in an article published by Captain Notepad, Digital Printing Vs Offset Printing Customized Notepads, customers are wanting faster turn around time with the same great quality that offset printing offers. Weve been seeing more and more customers asking for faster turnaround times for their custom notepad printing needs. Traditional offset printing jobs leave no room for the quick turnaround time that so many customers are asking for," notes Jace Rogat, President at Captain Notepad. He continues, Digital printing allows customers to order low count runs quickly and still at an affordable price. Captain Notepad offers a variety of choices for digital printing and variable data. Variable data is where elements such as text and graphics can be changed from one printed piece to the next without stopping or slowing down the printing process while using information from a database. Digital printing allows customers to use new variable data technology to make orders more unique and personal. Variable data is a great way for customers to stand out from the crowd, says Jace Rogat. Captain Notepad offers a variety of products where customers can personalize a name to each individual notepad in just one order. View a full list of Captain Notepad digital printed customized notepads and contact Captain Notepad for design options at 1 (888) 268-7237. About Captain Notepad (https://www.captainnotepad.com) Captain Notepad is the leading manufacturer of customized notepads and promotional items specializing in creative solutions to help brand a companys product and grow their business. Through competitive prices and great customer service, Captain Notepad has become the best source for custom notepads. What sets Captain Notepad apart is the short production time, including rush production on most of the custom printed notepads. Michel de Nostradame, the 16th century apothecary and seer, published prophecies that remain chilling to this day. Their power is in their peculiar mix of vagueness and specifics: they describe nightmarish scenes with names and analogies that adhere with unsettling elegance to the political forces and personas of later ages. Here, for example, is a classic quatrain held to describe the French Revolution: "From the enslaved populace, songs, Chants and demands While princes and lords are held captive in prisons. These will in the future by headless idiots Be received as divine prayers." Once you've decided what any given quatrain is about, it reads like an eyewitness report by an educated man from an earlier era, trying naively to describe in terms meaningful to him the sights of an apocalyptic technological future. You can imagine him getting high, looking into the fire or a glass ball, and feverishly transcribing the incomprehensible terrors he observes. Among Nostradamus' greatest hits were Hitler (to whom references to "Hister" are said to apply); Saddam Hussein, whose name accommodates the terrifying "Mabus" character; and Barack Obama, of course, who fits that name even better. Sure, it's all quite silly, a load of could-mean-anything Renaissance creepypasta. And there's humor to be found in the fact that Nostradamus is so good at predicting things that have already happened. But where's Donald Trump? is trump in nostradamus's prophecies spooky e-mails (@sarahjeong) February 27, 2016 He's mad, he's bad, and he's on track to be the Republican nominee for U.S. President in the 2016 general electionto the horror of everyone not already supporting him, including his own party. I took a quick poke around the Internet and it seems troublingly light on "Nostradamus predicted Trump" stuff, so I figure we could start a collection here. Now, I'm no Erika Cheetham, but I've done some preliminary searches and found the following. (Yes, I'm searching English translations off the Internet for the word "Trumpet" and "Orange". Hey, if "Hister" is Hitler, it'll do.) My findings are quite disturbing! Century I: 40 The false trumpet concealing madness will cause Byzantium to change its laws. From Egypt there will go forth a man who wants the edict withdrawn, changing money and standards. If you ask me, Nostradamus is pretty much nailing it right out the gate here. Donald Trump ("the false trumpet") is concealing his own madness. As U.S. President, he will cause Byzantium, i.e. Greece a key entry point into the west for refugees! to change its laws. The president of Egypt will "want the edict withdrawn," presumably because if the displaced millions are not going north, they're going south. As a result of all this, the Euro collapses. Holy fucking shit! We're four lines in and already on the brink of World War 3. Century I: 57 The trumpet shakes with great discord. An agreement broken: lifting the face to heaven: the bloody mouth will swim with blood; the face anointed with milk and honey lies on the ground. If the first example was the sort of quatrain that shows off the Nostradamean illusion of specificity, this one shows off why he's so goddamn scary. Trump, here, is enraged: someone or something has betrayed him. In the name of religion, he talks blood and he ends up swimming in it. The land of "milk and honey" is, of course, Israelthe last line perhaps means he makes a big show of friendship and eating dirt for his efforts. Trump has described his intention of being a 'neutral broker' between Israel and Palestinethe sort of hubris that could make things much worse when he learns everyone is smarter than he expected and not giving an inch. What options would President Trump then have, given a $700 billion military budget and a desperate, narcissistic need to solve whatever problem is making a fool of him? Century III: 50 The republic of the great city Will not want to consent to the great severity: King summoned by trumpet to go out, The ladder at the wall, the city will repent. Such vague Nostradamus metaphors tend to have established interpretations. But for the purposes of blogging, this looks to me like Trump being unable to get America (the republic) to go on some expensive military adventure. So he tells Britain (the King sorry, Liz, times up!) to do the work. As it begins (ladder at the wall!) America realizes it needs to do its part. Trump looks like a fool and must repent. This could be some kind of risky humanitarian thing that reeks of more immigrants, perhaps evacuating Tripoli from an ISIS siege would be ultra-Nostradamean. Century X: 76 The great Senate will ordain the triumph For one who afterwards will be vanquished, driven out: At the sound of the trumpet of his adherents there will be Put up for sale their possessions, enemies expelled. This one's easy but boring. The U.S. Senate makes a show of supporting Trump, but stabs him in the back: he's impeached or ditched after four years. But then "at the sound of the trump his adherents will be there", selling their possessions and expelling enemies. The final apotheosis of Trumpism: the personality cult of a one-term loser. (In a good Nostradamus book, there'd be a wargames-esque picture of Europe here with arrows flying this way and that to indicate where the invasions and refugees are going, which Middle Eastern countries end up frozen in a tranquil seas of glass, what year and month Jesus turns up, etc.) Alright, I'm already going to have nightmares. I'm done! Check out the complete text of Nostradamus in English and French for more juicy Nostradamus Trump Prophecies, and post your findings in the comments Former Portage County, Wisconsin sheriff Dan Hintz Former Portage County, Wisconsin sheriff Dan Hintz has joined a select group of Amazon.com best-selling authors with his book "In Pursuit of Justice." The law enforcement memoir was published and released on May 21, 2015. In January 2016, "In Pursuit of Justice" by Dan Hintz with John Spiller achieved best-seller status on Amazon.com reaching as high as #11 in the category Biographies & Memoirs. Hintz augmented the books success by embarking upon an extensive media, public speaking, and book signing tour. "In Pursuit of Justice" is a collection of short stories that reflect Dan Hintzs humble and often tragic childhood on a small farm in Shantytown, Wisconsin. The book also depicts a two-decade law enforcement career that ran the gamut of bizarre and dangerous circumstances. Some of those circumstances included mysterious deaths and shocking murders, heartrending suicides, unusual medical emergencies, beer-soaked bar brawls, creative drug trafficking, illicit liaisons, smart-mouthed wiseguys, an unrepentant bully, violent racial incidents, masturbation gone wrong, and a sex-crazed, drug-fueled rock festival from a bygone era just to name a few. As the sheriff of Portage County, Wisconsin, Dan Hintz directed Operation Clean Sweepthe removal of domestic terrorist organization Posse Comitatusputting an exclamation point on an eventful law enforcement career. The Posse, whom the FBI described as one of the first organized manifestations espousing racial supremacy, but primarily focused on opposition to the federal government, had threatened to kill government officials, law enforcement officers, and innocent citizens. In a display of strength and courage, Hintz led more than 150 law enforcement officers in the charge to remove the racist, anti-government terrorists from their militia-style compound in rural Tigerton Dells, Wisconsin. Former sheriff Dan Hintz is an accomplished public speaker dedicating himself to examining the threat of domestic terrorism and the state of law enforcement in America. Would you like to schedule an interview or arrange a speaking engagement with Dan Hintz? Please contact Dan directly at (727) 784-8370 or John Spiller at (727) 418-8226. CONTACT Dan Hintz Phone: Office (727) 784-8370 Personal (727) 781-8020 inpursuitofjusticebook(at)gmail(dot)com John Spiller Phone: Office (727) 418-8226 theworkinghourmediagroup(at)gmail(dot)com "In Pursuit of Justice" ISBN-10: 0692431179 ISBN-13: 978-0692431177 To request a review copy of "In Pursuit of Justice," please contact John Spiller SOURCES Dan Hintz and John Spiller RELATED LINKS https://www.inpursuitofjusticebook.com/ https://www.inpursuitofjusticebook.com/media-kit.html http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/0692431179/ https://www.facebook.com/inpursuitofjusticebook/ The Republic of Tea launches new Organic SuperHerb Tea flavors The Republic of Tea, leading purveyor of premium teas and herbs, announces new additions to the collection of fortifying SuperHerb Teas, organic Reishi Cocoa, organic Thai Ginger, and organic Milk Thistle SuperHerb Teas. The new Certified Organic SuperHerb Teas are all-natural, caffeine-free, Certified Gluten-Free herbal teas that contain various nutrients and antioxidants. Each of these teas may assist in attaining peak performance, strength, longevity and can be an easy and satisfying part of a daily wellness regimen*. These new SuperHerb Teas complement the other unique and innovative blends in the collection including Moringa, Baobab, organic Dandelion, and organic Elderflower. The Republic of Teas new SuperHerb Tea blends pack a powerful punch of centuries-old herbal remedies and exotic ingredients into delicious teas that help boost health*. Organic Reishi Cocoa SuperHerb Tea A tea for wellness. Discovered in the Changbai Mountains in China thousands of years ago, the Reishi mushroom has a reputation as a powerful anti-aging substance. Modern research demonstrates its antioxidant properties and its ability to stimulate brain activity. It can also relax the nervous system, inducing a state of calm alertness*. Taoists and monks refer to Reishi as an herb that nourishes the spirit. The Republic of Tea has combined it with cocoa for a smooth, full-bodied, relaxing cup. USDA certified organic. Organic Thai Ginger SuperHerb Tea A tea for relief. Galangal root or Thai Ginger is a common ingredient in Thai soups and curries. It is very similar to common ginger but has a slightly lemony flavor and floral aroma. The Republic of Tea has added lemongrass to accentuate the citrus notes and honey flavor for a sweet finish. Like ginger, galangal has been used for thousands of years in Asia to help with digestion, nausea, and upset stomachs. USDA certified organic and Non-GMO Project verified. Organic Milk Thistle SuperHerb Tea A tea for cleansing. Milk Thistle is named for the milk that exudes from the leaves when they are cut, but it is the seeds that have made their mark as an herbal remedy. They contain a compound called silymarin, which has been used for over 2,000 years in European cultures to help protect the liver from toxins. Milk thistle has also been used to help with hangovers and to increase breast milk production. Orange peel and grapefruit notes create a bright and cleansing cup. USDA certified organic. Each tin of SuperHerb Tea contains 36 tea bags and retails for $13.00. Milk Thistle and Organic Thai Ginger SuperHerb Teas are available now and Organic Reishi Cocoa SuperHerb Tea are available mid-March 2016 nationwide at natural and specialty food stores, through the company website (http://www.REPUBLICofTEA.com), mail-order catalogue and by calling 800.298.4TEA (832). ### About The Republic of Tea: The Republic of Tea enriches peoples lives through its premium teas, education and innovation, as it emphasizes a Sip by Sip Rather Than Gulp by Gulp lifestyle. Founded in 1992, The Republic of Tea sparked a specialty tea revolution. Today the brand offers an unequaled selection of the highest-quality teas, herbal blends, books and nature-inspired sip ware, available exclusively at specialty retailers throughout the U.S. Further, The Republic of Tea is mindful of how its actions impact the greater community and actively supports worthy organizations like Action Against Hunger, The Ethical Tea Partnership, The Prostate Cancer Foundation, Xerces Society and The Whole Planet Foundation. Certifications include Demeter USA Certified Biodynamic, Fair Trade certification, Gluten-Free certification, Non-GMO Project verification, OU Kosher certification, Rainforest Alliance certification and USDA Organic certification. For more information, please visit http://www.REPUBLICofTEA.com or call 1.800.298.4832. Follow The Republic of Tea on Twitter at twitter.com/republicoftea and Like us on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/RepublicofTea. Contact Information: Claire Storrs, Minister of Enlightenment, claire(at)republicoftea.com 5 Hamilton Landing, Suite 100, Novato, CA 94949 ~ Tel 415.382.3400 ~ Fax 415.382.3401 ~ http://www.REPUBLICofTEA.com LOCALCON, April 20-22, 2016 The ongoing digital revolution that has changed everything from business communication to the way we shop, eat and think has found one sector it struggles to overturn: local retail marketing. For hundreds of years, local purveyors have relied on a practice of word-of-mouth, retail location, and tactile marketing products to reach and retain their customers. But in the last decade, a combination of powerful new marketing technologies and the weakening of newspapers and directories advertising incomes has produced an explosion of new options for small marketers to get out the word. Now, local businesses can reach consumers wherever they are, via digital advertising, daily deals, location-targeted messaging, on-demand services, and more. Yet, for the vendors, challenges remain. LOCALCON (https://www.siinda.com/events/program/localcon-2016), Europes first conference dedicated to these innovations in local marketing and media, will bring together leaders and innovators to speak about these new technologies. Their big focus: How to convince local marketers to more fully embrace these options. It is truly a period of change when you have a newspaper company like Trinity Mirror sharing the stage with a company like Hailo, said Kimberli J. Lewis, general manager of SIINDA, Europes leading association of the local search marketing industry. What they have in common are business objectives around transforming the local economy. LOCALCON, which will be held at Chelsea Stadium from April 20-22, 2016, will feature speakers from companies such as: Google Facebook Yoose Axel Springer Hailo Yelp Trinity Mirror Solocal Pubmatic & more Sessions include: How Time Out is helping restaurants and entertainment venues meet smart, social people How Zenchef develops an easy to use all-in-one booking system together with all the extra necessary tools to strengthen online visibility The latest regulatory trends on data protection, digital development, the on-demand economy How big brand are focusing on new advertising techniques including mobile and social Plus: Connected cars, predictive analysis, local search marketing, and more LOCALCON is produced by SIINDA (http://www.sinda.com) and Street Fight (http://streetfightmag.com), an American business-to-business media company focused on the local digital marketing sector. "Over the past four-and-a-half years, Street Fight's signature Summits in the U.S. have been the hottest must-attend events covering local marketing, commerce and tech," said Laura Rich, CEO of Street Fight. "Expanding into the European market with this event will allow us to serve a whole new group of dynamic companies working on many of the same local marketing problems on the other side of the Atlantic. We're thrilled to launch with a partner like SIINDA, the leading association covering local search and commerce in Europe. SIINDA knows Europe and Street Fight knows disruption; thus our collaboration will prove incredibly valuable for their members as well as our audience." Tickets are on sale through the event. For more information, go to: https://www.siinda.com/events/program/localcon-2016 ABOUT STREET FIGHT Street Fight is a media, events, and research company focused on the business of hyperlocal commerce, marketing and technology. The Street Fight website publishes news, commentary, case studies, and how-to articles to chronicle the hyperlocal ecosystems development of sustainable business models. Street Fight Insights conducts research and analysis on industry trends within hyperlocal marketing. And Street Fight operates proprietary and custom events for all aspects of hyperlocal business. Street Fight Summit is the company's flagship event, held in New York City each year. and other annual conferences are take place in San Francisco and Denver. ABOUT SIINDA SIINDA is the Search & Information Industry Association, the leading European based non-profit association bringing together companies in the search (digital, mobile, print, vertical directories and platforms), information, and telecommunication sectors as well as businesses providing on demand services. We have global members from Asia to Latin America and from Africa to Australia. We provide a wide range of member services from market research to conferences and summits. We are a resource forum where complementary market segments in search and information can connect, share, and grow. We are fostering the development of positive, ongoing partnerships that enable us all to prosper. We keep our members up to date with the latest market trends, technical developments, and critical legislation that might affect our businesses. We also provide a platform where seed level start-ups can mix with industry leaders. Our worldwide network of members fosters the exchange of ideas and the encouragement of partnerships. Lawrence Hoffman, a retired New York City Detective, husband, devoted writer and author, has completed his newest work Turning Blue: A Life Beneath the Shield: a gripping and potent story of courage, fear, acceptance, perseverance and dignity. Lawrence Hoffman was born and raised on the south shore of Long Island, New York. He joined the New York City Police Department in 1984 and retired with the rank of detective after twenty years of service in 2004. He is a member of the NYPD Honor Legion and has received over twenty-four departmental awards and medals of recognitions along with letters of commendation from the Eastern District of United States Attorneys Office in Manhattan, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the New York City Fire Department. Lawrence is also a member of the Screen Actors Guild and can be seen in several blockbuster feature films and television shows such as Law and Order, Life on Mars, A Beautiful Mind, The Bounty Hunter, Break the Stage, and The Taking of Pelham 123. Published by New York City-based Page Publishing, Lawrence Hoffmans passionately crafted biography depicts the personal and professional life of a NYPD detective. Hoffman explains As a kid growing up on Long Island, I struggled with an unknown psychological need to wear a uniform and a strong desire to be a part of an organization. My search would take me through Little League, Cub Scouts, and various fraternal organizations. This desire would only be fulfilled after joining the NYPD in February of 1984. Somewhere during my twenty-year career, I was transformed from that kid into a veteran New York City police detective. This is my evolution from a middle-class suburban kid with simple values who naively thought the projects were a homework assignment into a veteran detective working in some of the most unforgiving neighborhoods of New York City. With this transformation comes the ability to separate the daily exposure to the dark side of human nature from your own life-sustaining core beliefs. Many will fail to acquire this ability and fall victim to drugs, alcohol, divorce, crime, and even suicide. This is a process which I have come to call Turning Blue. This is my story of how I dealt with life-changing experiences at home while my gun belt and uniform hung safely in my locker. In my twenty years of experience as a police officer, I can honestly say that I have been scared and feared for my life. Could you go back to work after crying yourself to sleep, reliving your partners screams as he lay bleeding to death in the backseat of your unmarked car, and the only thing keeping your heart in your chest was your department-issued bulletproof vest? Readers who wish to experience this profound work can purchase Turning Blue: A Life Beneath the Shield 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 of 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 bogged down with complicated business issues like eBook conversion, establishing wholesale accounts, insurance, shipping, taxes and the like. Its roster of authors can leave behind these tedious, complex and time consuming issues, and focus on their passion: writing and creating. Learn more at http://www.pagepublishing.com. There is nothing like Prime hair on the market today. This new European design will revolutionize your experience with wigs! Ellen Wille, Europes top wig brand, introduces their most innovative collection yet: Prime Power. The Prime Power Collection is a revolutionary blend of pure human hair enhanced with premium synthetic hair fiber. 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This new European design will revolutionize your experience with wigs!" About Ellen Wille For over 45 years, Ellen Wille designs have been inspired by international fashion trends. Her passion for wig perfection is evident she guides every meticulous detail. Each Ellen Wille wig is unique. All aspects of an individual style, from hair fiber to the coloring to the cap design, are about ensuring the most beautiful look, natural movement and comfortable fit. With numerous collections and awards including two form Concours International in Paris Ellen Wille has cemented her reputation for truly beautiful and high-quality wigs. The highly unique star-shaped SmartPanTM weighing pan, which is integrated into the XPE Precision balance, fosters remarkable repeatability at resolutions down to 1 milligram while delivering results The innovative new balance offers excellent repeatability when weighing minute forces without use of a draft shield. METTLER TOLEDO is proud to announce that its XPE Precision balance has been recognized with a 2015 GOOD DESIGN award. The innovative new balance offers excellent repeatability when weighing minute forces without use of a draft shield. Eliminating the need for a draft shield allows a faster weighing process and a significant enhancement of lab productivity. The Chicago Athenaeum Museum of Architecture and design in cooperation with the European Centre for Architecture, Art, Design and Urban Studies selected the XPE Precision balance from among an array of products submitted from 38 countries in areas such as electronics, medical equipment and bionics. Entries that captured the selection committees imagination blended elements of functionality, ergonomics and aesthetics to create truly unique user experiences. The highly unique star-shaped SmartPan weighing pan, which is integrated into the XPE Precision balance, fosters remarkable repeatability at resolutions down to 1 milligram while delivering results up to twice as fast as a comparable balance using a draft shield. Elimination of the draft shield makes weigh-in quicker and easier. This serves to significantly enhance lab productivity and help operators to have a more comfortable weighing process. Notably, the innovative weighing pan design even maintains a faster-than-average settling time inside a fume hood, where continuous drafts are used to eliminate the danger posed by airborne gas or other toxins. Under these subtly more difficult conditions, XPE Precision 5 and 10 milligram models in particular continue to deliver results up to twice as fast with the balances hallmark two-fold improvement in repeatability without resorting to draft shield use. Founded in 1950, GOOD DESIGN is the worlds oldest and most-recognized program honoring design excellence. With the 2015 award, METTLER TOLEDO joins an esteemed list of honorees known for groundbreaking design and manufacturing excellence in their respective industries including Apple, Boeing, Google, Lenovo and Siemens. For more about the unique METTLER TOLEDO SmartPan weighing system and XPE Precision balances, please visit http://www.mt.com/XPE-precision. About the GOOD DESIGN Awards Now in its 66th year, GOOD DESIGN is the oldest and most prestigious design awards program organized worldwide. Founded in Chicago in 1950 by the former Museum of Metropolitan Art curator Edgar Kaufmann, Jr., together with such pioneers in modern design as Charles and Ray Eames, Russel Wright, George Nelson, and Eero Saarinen, GOOD DESIGN honors the yearly achievements of the best industrial and graphic designers and world manufacturers for their pursuit of extraordinary design excellence. About METTLER TOLEDO METTLER TOLEDO is a leading global supplier of precision instruments and services. The Company is the worlds largest manufacturer and marketer of weighing instruments for use in laboratory, industrial and food retailing applications. METTLER TOLEDO also holds top-three market positions in several related analytical instruments and is a leading provider of automated chemistry systems used in drug and chemical compound discovery and development. In addition, the Company is the worlds largest manufacturer and marketer of metal detection and other end-of-line inspection systems used in production and packaging and holds a leading position in certain process analytics applications. Additional information about METTLER TOLEDO can be found at http://www.mt.com. Practice makes perfect. Feb 29' 2016: Teeneinstein.com Platform and Apps build curiosity, welcomes students to the wonderful world of Math. Using state of the art technology, arts and humanities, every image, solution, video, animation is thoughtfully designed to expedite Math mastery, to make it more engaging for students in Grade (6th to 12th). Parents can continuously monitor the progress using graphs, reports and weekly notification on their childs progress and achievement. Teeneinstein.com and the Apps provide high caliber Math learning experience, to address individual needs of a student and artistically designed to develop natural way of learning at their own pace using our proprietary algorithm. Personalized learning & Engagement: Practice makes perfect, Teeneinstein provides daily worksheet of 30 questions on each topic for rigorous practice, concept evaluation, practices, quiz plus hundreds of videos and animations, evaluate engine based on Concept Map that provides 360-degree support to the students. With practical problems to disseminate every topic using our unique Concept Map to understand students strength, weakness as well as simultaneously mitigate the weak areas. Availability Information: Teeneinstein Apps are available at Apple App Store and Google Play Store. Please visit teeneinstein.com for more information. About Teeneinstein: Teeneinstein is a Santa Clara, USA based education technology platform company that delivers high caliber Math and Science solutions, using state of the art technology, arts and humanities, deep engagement and personalized learning skills. Teeneinstein assists in school curriculum, teachers and parents to use technology in learning. Supported by our team of PhDs, high caliber educationalists to help build student confidence, curiosity and competence. Centripetal Networks Todays attacks are more complex than ever. Geography, type of attack and the ability to infiltrate a network and simply wait for the right time to strike are pushing business leaders, security administrators and their teams to the brink. Threat Intelligence Platform Provides Highest Throughput and Uses Broadest Range of Sources to Deliver Prompt, Actionable Information Centripetal Networks Inc., the leading provider of Real-Time Active Network Defense solutions, today announced the release of RuleGate Network Protection System (NPS) 2.7, a fully integrated threat intelligence based defense platform. The RuleGate Network Protection System dynamically updates threat intelligence from more than 40 sources, normalizes the intelligence, and applies it to the network to alert, block or redirect malicious traffic. The platform includes the Advanced Cyber Threat (ACT) service, the RuleGate network appliance and QuickThreat, Centripetal Networks real-time threat intelligence analytics application. To see a live RuleGate demo at the RSA Conference, please visit Centripetal Networks at booth S2718 in the South Hall of the Moscone Center. Todays attacks are more complex than ever. Geography, type of attack and the ability to infiltrate a network and simply wait for the right time to strike are pushing business leaders, security administrators and their teams to the brink, said Steven Rogers, Founder and CEO of Centripetal Networks. Our newest product optimizes threat intelligence enabling organizations to understand and prioritize security threats based on individualized business needs. New RuleGate features meet the business and technical need for identifying, prioritizing and remediating threats before an attack is underway. With threat profiles and thresholds, organizations can now prioritize threats based on business enterprise security policies to ensure the most urgent threats are dealt with first. RuleGate is the only threat intelligence tool that has: o Intelligent Packet Capture PCAP data focused on the threat and made available directly to the cyber analyst. o SSL Inline Content Inspection deployment option provides visibility into encrypted traffic with inline inspection and filtering of SSL encrypted traffic and no loss of network performance. o Multi-Dimensional Indicators multi-dimensional indicators factor in 5-tuple network information in combination with IP, Domain or URL Indicators to form more precise identification. Other important new features include: o Network Path Correlation identifying the exact host inside the network, the path taken through the network security tools, and to specific hosts outside the network in real-time, giving security teams the ability to locate and potentially quarantine infected devices. o Live Geographic Visualizer visualizing threat based activity across multiple network locations live gives organizations the opportunity to choose a course of action based on business needs whether to block all traffic or remain vigilant. o Pivot to Source analysts pivot to the original threat intelligence source for the most up-to-date intelligence context informing teams of the advanced threat. o Eight Network Filtering Ports with eight 100M/1G/10G network filtering ports, a single RuleGate provides additional filtering, correlation, and high availability in the most advanced network deployments. o Support for 802.AD QinQ Nested VLAN Tags with support for 20 Gb/s of aggregate throughput and VLAN tags, single devices can handle larger portions of the network, easing a complex deployment strategy. Centripetals ACT service leverages partnerships with more than 40 threat intelligence sources including Cyveillance, AlienVault, CrowdStrike, EmergingThreats, iDefense by Verisign, Internet Identity, iSightPartners, ThreatConnect and ThreatTrack. About Centripetal Networks Centripetal Networks Inc. is a cyber-security solutions provider specializing in Real-Time Active Network Defense. Centripetal has achieved several breakthroughs in the scale and speed of network protection. Centripetals RuleGate product is the first and only system able to block, alert or monitor advanced threats at unmatched speed using up to 5 million threat intelligence indicators of compromise. Threat intelligence can now directly drive an active cyber defense without negatively impacting network performance or user experience. Centripetals offering includes RuleGate a unique ultra high performance network appliance, QuickThreat the industrys first real-time threat visualization and analytics platform and the Advanced Cyber Threat (ACT) service. Please visit http://www.centripetalnetworks.com. 2015 Centripetal Networks, Incorporated. All rights reserved. Centripetal, the Centripetal logos, RuleGate and QuickThreat are trademarks or registered trademarks of Centripetal Networks, Inc. in the United States and/or other countries. Lighthouse Media Solutions Logo Lighthouse Media Solutions has announced that the premiere issue of Plymouth Magazine will be on newsstands in May 2016. An upscale, glossy coffee-table publication, Plymouth Magazine will be modeled after Lighthouse Media Solutions 13 other regional lifestyle magazines, which include South Shore Living, Cape Cod Magazine, Southern New England Weddings, New England Boating and, most recently, Hingham and Falmouth Magazines. Plymouth Magazine will celebrate Americas Hometown as it prepares for 2020, when it will mark the 400th anniversary of the voyage of the Mayflower and the founding of Plimoth Colony. The annual publication will showcase Plymouths vibrant history, culture and community as well as highlight everything from the towns natural beauty and rich music and dining scene to its historic museums and landmarks, all of which make it a destination of both national and international importance. # # # Lighthouse Media Solutions is a multimedia marketing and publishing company that specializes in producing and developing across traditional and digital platforms. LMS provides a wide range of marketing services including but not limited to: email marketing, website and mobile application development, video and radio production, search engine optimization and marketing (SEO and SEM/PPC), social media management and consulting, branding, event planning and graphic design. Im energized by the prospect of growing and leveraging FEIs important business relationships to bolster its financial resources and further build the organizations robust resources for members, Marrese said. Financial Executives International (FEI), the association of choice for chief financial officers and other senior-level finance executives, today named Patricia Marrese as Director, Strategic Partnerships. Marrese will manage strategic partnerships, marketing relationships, exhibit and sponsorship sales, and business development for FEI. In addition, she will be responsible for all non-dues revenue for FEI and non-contribution revenue for Financial Executives Research Foundation (FERF). Marrese will report to Charles Deale, Vice President, Membership and Chapter Relations, and will be based in FEIs Morristown, N.J. headquarters. Pats rich experience developing business opportunities will be instrumental in enriching the networking and educational initiatives that are the backbone of our member experience, said Liliana DeVita, Chief Operating Officer, FEI. We welcome Pat to our team and look forward to her contributions to our programming and member services. Im energized by the prospect of growing and leveraging FEIs important business relationships to bolster its financial resources and further build the organizations robust resources for members, Marrese said. Marrese joins FEI from the New Jersey Society of Certified Public Accountants (NJCPA), where she most recently she served as Director of Business Development. In this role she directed strategies for driving new revenue growth, increased non-dues revenue more than 100 percent in three years through partnerships, sponsorships, advertising opportunities and affinity programs. Marrese also quadrupled the number of sponsors for the organizations primary trade show to 100 over three years. Marrese holds the Meeting Professionals International Certification in Meeting Management (CMM) and is a Convention Industry Council Certified Meeting Professional (CMP). She also holds a certificate in Management from Kean University. She has been awarded a certificate of achievement from the Mid Atlantic Society of Association Executives (MASAE), the Distinguished Service Award from a past President of the New Jersey Society of CPAs and a Recognition Award from a past Chairman of the American Institute of CPAs. She is a member of the Board of Trustees for Junior Achievement of New Jersey and a committee member of the Mid Atlantic Society of Association Executives (MASAE). About FEI Financial Executives International is the leading advocate for the views of corporate financial management. Its more than 10,000 members hold policy-making positions as chief financial officers, treasurers and controllers at companies from every major industry. FEI enhances member professional development through peer networking, career management services, conferences, research and publications. Members participate in the activities of 74 chapters in the U.S. and a chapter in Japan. FEI is headquartered in Morristown, NJ, with a Government Affairs office in Washington, D.C. Visit http://www.financialexecutives.org for more information. Media Contacts: Claudine Cornelis (845) 424-6342 claudine(at)crimsoncom(dot)com Lili DeVita, FEI (973) 765-1021 ldevita(at)financialexecutives(dot)org ### The Last Chance K9 Service in New Albany, Indiana is just one of several companies that sells the services of drug detection dogs to parents who think their kids are hiding drugs in their room. A visit costs $99. Since opening in September of last year, owner Michel Davis says his K9 teams have searched more than 50 homes and have a 90 percent hit rate. For example, one teen had stashed his weed in a cereal box and another hid her pot pipe in an Altoids can. The dogs weren't fooled. I'm sure these cases end with big, teary, loving family hugs and the kids say nope to dope from then on. From the Courier-Journal: Davis, who has tactical training in the detection of drugs, firearms and bombs, said the majority of his work has been focused on bigger contracts, including searches of businesses and other private contracts he said he's not at liberty to discuss. But he said he's motivated to aid parents, adding a personal touch and pep talk because of his own experiences. He said had a tough upbringing in Louisville, experimented with marijuana and saw some of his friends progress to harder drugs. He was inspired to fight addiction in his own way after an addict seeking money in 2005 attacked his pregnant fiancee, causing her to lose the baby. "We want to take drugs off the streets," Davis said of his team, which includes other dog handlers with military backgrounds. "What we do is help the family fix the issue," he said. "We're not the police." Big Brain Global Networks (BBGN) launched a new line of dedicated servers in their metro-Washington, D.C. area data center. CEO Brian Smith said, This is an exciting time for the hosting industry, especially as business computing needs continue to grow and become more sophisticated. We are happy that we are able to meet our clients' demands and bring this next generation technology to the DC metro area. Intels new E3-1230v5 series processors are powering our new lineup of servers which supports up to 64 GB of DDR4 memory, and comes standard with 2x1 terabyte enterprise SATA drives, and Solid State Drives are available upon request. These dedicated servers are ideal for virtualization, e-commerce sites, e-mail hosting, WHM/cPanel hosting, database hosting, and software development. For more information, please visit http://www.bigbrainglobal.com. Quick Server Facts: Intel E3-1230v5 3.4 3.8Ghz Quad Core Processor 8 64 GB of DDR4 Memory Enterprise SATA or SSD Hardware RAID Storage Free IPMI (KVM-over-IP) 1,000 Mbps Network Uplink Multiple Operating Systems (CentOS, Ubuntu, Windows, Citrix, VMware, etc.) Supported by the 24/7 Brainiac Support Team About Big Brain Global Networks Big Brain LLC, the owner of Big Brain Global Networks, provides managed hosting solutions to individuals and businesses alike. Our Brainiac Support team provides our customers with solutions to complex business problems through a personalized customer experience approach. Big Brain Globals portfolio of services includes co-location, dedicated environments, virtual machines, web hosting, and domain registration. Through partnering with other strong businesses we are able to provide our clients with reliable network speeds, uptime, and access to software license subscriptions that successfully improve the overall user experience. Headquartered in Reston, Virginia, Big Brain Global Networks serves individuals and businesses in more than 75 countries through its network of servers in Washington, D.C. metro area, Lenoir, North Carolina, and London, UK. HIPAA Compliant Computing for Healthcare Health Cloud is all about building stronger patient relationships, and Catalyze is a valuable part of our journey towards creating a modern healthcare platform for patients, doctors, and everyone else involved in care. Catalyze, Inc., an innovative healthcare IT firm that offers a HIPAA compliant HITRUST CSF Certified platform today announced it will be providing live use case demonstrations of the capabilities of Salesforce Health Cloud at the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS16) Conference taking place Feb. 29 to March 4, 2016, in Las Vegas. Catalyze provides a unique and trusted approach to data integration with Salesforce Health Cloud by providing functionality which manages the entire process of an integration. Catalyze's lauded commitment to the entire process of an integrationfrom start to finishmeans Health Cloud customers can more quickly complete integration projects, all the while receiving Catalyze's HITRUST CSF Certified approach to data security and integrity. HIMSS attendees will receive an intimate and tangible view of Salesforce Health Cloud and the way it can be utilized to improve patient and healthcare organization connectivity. Catalyze will demo a use case from client Propeller Health, the leading digital health platform in respiratory medicine. The use case illustrates how Catalyze used Health Cloud for integration of Propellers digital platform at a West Coast childrens hospital. Salesforce Health Cloud is available for purchase today, giving healthcare providers new ways to make smarter care decisions, engage with patients across their caregiver networks and manage patient data. Salesforce announced Catalyze as one of its launch partners for Health Cloud at HIMSS16. As a mature consultative integration partner for healthcare vendors, Catalyze recently put its stake in the ground by releasing Redpoint, which offers an all-encompassing approach to healthcare integrations. This approach will also be used as a Health Cloud partner. Catalyze Integration Solution Key Features: HIPAA Compliant, HITRUST CSF Certified -- Catalyze is a secure and reliable platform partner, processing more than a million messages a day. Healthcare experienced, healthcare-only integrations -- Catalyze can quickly connect a vendors solution to a hospitals EMR. Live working use-case demo for immediate viewing Live use case demos will be held at the HIMSS16 Salesforce Lounge at the Clyde Ballroom, SLS Hotel during the Catalyze presentation on Thursday, March 3 at 1:00pm and after. Comments on the News The Propeller client demo is exciting because many pediatric hospitals in the country use Epic, explained Catalyze Chief Data Officer Mark Olschesky. We helped Propeller and its client understand how to make the workflows work so the hospital could use the information flowing in and identify which patients to enroll in Propellers asthma and COPD studies, as well as ensuring that individuals are indeed enrolled. We live in the age of the customer, and patients now expect personalized and engaging experiences with their healthcare providers, said Joshua Newman, MD, Chief Medical Officer, GM, Salesforce Healthcare and Life Sciences. Health Cloud is all about building stronger patient relationships, and Catalyze is a valuable part of our journey towards creating a modern healthcare platform for patients, doctors, and everyone else involved in care. Catalyze President and Co-founder Mohan Balachandran agrees. This announcement is exciting, and with Propeller, offers new opportunities around prescribing behavioral change for patients. Its great to see a company like Salesforce that has impacted so many other verticals now step into the healthcare market with the launch of Health Cloud. About Catalyze, Inc. Catalyze provides an innovative HIPAA compliant HITRUST Certified platform with a complete set of modules to handle, store and transmit PHI in the cloud. Scalable, HIPAA compliant and interoperable infrastructure is powering the future of healthcare, so Catalyze has built the platform upon which development teams can hasten healthcare innovation without becoming an overnight expert in compliance. For more information, please visit http://www.catalyze.io. About Salesforce Health Cloud Salesforce Health Cloud is a cloud-based patient relationship management solution that enables providers to gain a complete view of the patient with integrated data from electronic medical records (EMRs), wearables and more; make smarter care decisions; engage with patients across their caregiver networks; and safely and securely manage patient data. About Propeller Health Founded in 2010, Propeller is the leading provider of an FDA-cleared digital health platform that helps reduce the cost of care while delivering better quality of life for individuals with chronic respiratory disease. Propeller provides better engagement, communication, and more insightful and personalized care. Backed by Safeguard Scientifics, Social Capital, California HealthCare Foundation, Kapor Capital and other investors, Propeller has been used by patients with asthma or COPD in over 35 commercial programs across the US at major healthcare systems, payers, employers and other commercial partners. Company recognition includes TEDMED Innovation Showcase, White House Champion of Change, and Bluetooth Breakthrough Product awards. Visit http://propellerhealth.com/contact/ to request more information. Additional Resources Like Salesforce on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/salesforce Follow Salesforce on Twitter: https://twitter.com/salesforce Salesforce Health Cloud Website: http://www.salesforce.com/industries/healthcare/health-cloud/ Follow Catalyze on Twitter: @catalyzeio Salesforce is the trademark of salesforce.com, inc. By making it simple to transfer credits from StraighterLine to Franklin, this partnership is helping students achieve their academic goals. StraighterLine, the fastest-growing provider of low-cost, online general education courses, has partnered with Franklin University to provide an efficient, affordable and transferable pathway for college students. StraighterLine Founder and CEO Burck Smith said, Were thrilled to partner with Franklin University, who has been a pioneer in providing opportunities to adult students seeking degree completion. By making it simple to transfer credits from StraighterLine to Franklin, this partnership is helping students achieve their academic goals. As an accredited, nonprofit institution and a leader in online learning, Franklin University provides academic programs for students from all walks of life, all across the country, and all around the world. The mission of being a student-centered institution reflects a commitment to putting students first by eliminating barriers, providing flexibility in course delivery, and providing services and resources to support student success. Franklin University has built its reputation on improving access to relevant, high-quality academic programs for students who balance their educational goals with other commitments, said Dr. David R. Decker, President, Franklin University. By establishing partnerships with organizations such as StraigherLine, we are able to leverage our generous transfer policy to provide a greater community of learners with a faster and more affordable means of completing their education. At Franklin University, 90 percent of undergraduate students transfer college credits from at least one other institution. To help provide insight into the value of this previously earned credit, the University created myTransferCredit, an online tool that links prospective students directly to the Universitys transfer credit database. In addition to providing free, real-time transfer equivalencies between Franklin degree requirements and courses taken previously elsewhere, myTransferCredit shows prospective students which Franklin majors give them the best return on their credit by providing estimated degree completion dates and a monetary value of the credit toward the total cost of the degree. About Franklin University Founded in 1902, Franklin University is one of the leading and most experienced educators of adult students. Annually, nearly 10,000 students attend Franklin, through its Main Campus in downtown Columbus, Ohio, three Central Ohio locations and in Beavercreek, as well as over 20 co-locations with community colleges across Ohio, Indiana, Pennsylvania and Wisconsin, in addition to online. Franklin offers more than 40 undergraduate and graduate programs (including the new Certificate in Criminal Justice and Logistics Management major) and graduates more than 1,500 students annually. The Universitys MBA program is offered internationally through agreements with institutions in Europe and the Middle East. Further information regarding Franklin University can be found at http://www.franklin.edu. Franklin University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission (HLC), the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education (IACBE), and the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE). About StraighterLine StraighterLine solves the #1 issue facing students today the skyrocketing cost of college with low-cost online courses that prepare students for success. StraighterLine combines a $99 a month course subscription with guaranteed credit pathways to accredited degree programs to save students up to 60% on the total cost of their degree. More than 10,000 students got started with StraighterLine last year. StraighterLine takes the worry out of credit transfer with a College Savings Network of nearly 100 accredited colleges that guarantee acceptance of StraighterLine courses. Having also been evaluated and recommended by the American Council on Educations College Credit Recommendation Service (ACE CREDIT), StraighterLine courses will also be considered by more than 2,000 other colleges and universities for transfer to their degree programs upon request. ### Roll-Kraft, a leading provider of roll tooling to the tube and pipe and roll forming industry, with worldwide distribution, is pleased to announce the addition of Edward Alberts, Jr., to the management team, in the position of Vice President-Continuous Improvement. His duties include identifying opportunities to reduce lead times, with particular emphasis on meeting the companys goals of 100% on-time delivery and producing tooling that provides immediate out of the box performance to Roll-Kraft customers. He will interact with various leadership teams at each Roll-Kraft location to identify and implement improvements. Alberts holds a Six Sigma Green Belt and has created and facilitated numerous workshops to educate employees in lean initiatives. He is currently working to achieve Six Sigma Black Belt Certification. Alberts has over 20 years of experience, managing multiple distribution and manufacturing operations throughout North America. Most recently, he was the Director of North American Distribution Operations at IEWC in New Berlin, WI. Prior to his time at IEWC, he was Operations Manager at Pragotrade in Strongsville, OH. He received his training from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, OH., as well as the Lean Enterprise Institute, MRA-Institute of Management, and various other courses and programs. Roll-Kraft has its headquarters in Mentor, Ohio, and maintains other facilities in Frankfort, Illinois (Roll-Kraft Northern), Ontario, Canada (Roll-Kraft Ltd.), and Houston, Texas (Roll-Kraft Texas). Calls to the companys main line, (888) 953-9400 or (440) 205-3100, are greeted by a live operator who can assist callers in quickly reaching a technician, engineer, or sales staff, who can provide immediate assistance. The company's fax number is (440) 205-3110. Learn more about Roll-Kraft by visiting the website at roll-kraft.com. For easy and immediate contact with Roll-Kraft that transcends time zones and working hours, the website features an easy-to-use contact form. Working together, ABC and FCBTR are building a world-class brain cancer research network in Florida The Florida Center for Brain Tumor Research (FCBTR), in partnership with ABC (Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure), awarded $350,000 to support brain cancer research at three leading Florida institutions: University of Florida, The Scripps Research Institute and Florida State University College of Medicine. The 2016 awards fund research in areas on the cutting edge of scientific inquiry. The 4 award recipients, in alphabetical order, are: Akash Gunjan, Ph.D., Florida State University College of Medicine Jeffrey Harrison, Ph.D., University of Florida College of Medicine Victor Quereda, Ph.D., The Scripps Research Institute Brent Reynolds, Ph.D., University of Florida The Florida legislature is to be congratulated, again, on establishing a program, the Florida Center for Brain Tumor Research, which continues to bring the worlds best brain tumor scientists to our state, said Dr. William Friedman, Chairman of Neurosurgery at the University of Florida. It has been an honor to collaborate with ABC on this important scientific endeavor for Florida. "Working together, ABC and FCBTR are building a world-class brain cancer research network in Florida," said Max Wallace, CEO of ABC. "Thanks to the fundraising support from patients, families and loved ones participating in ABC Florida Brain Cancer 5k, were able to commit significant funding directly into research that holds the potential to speed the discovery of a cure." Together, since 2010, FCBTR and ABC have funded more than $1 million in Florida-based brain tumor research. The FCBTR/ABC Grants Program supports studies with a clear development path and potential to provide meaningful improvements in treatment outcomes for patients in the near future. This year, the FCBTR/ABC Grants Program received 14 applications from researchers at 6 centers, including Scripps, University of Florida, University of South Florida, University of West Florida, University of Miami, and Florida State University. About The Florida Center for Brain Tumor Research (FCBTR) Since 2006, the FCBTR at the Evelyn F. and William L. McKnight Brain Institute of the University of Florida has worked with hospitals statewide to collect tissue and disseminate data on brain tumors, creating a powerful tool to facilitate clinical trials, funding opportunities and research collaborations. FCBTR's Scientific Advisory Council includes top researchers from H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute, Mayo Clinic, University of Florida, Cleveland Clinic Florida, Scripps Research Institute, UFHealth Cancer Center Orlando Health, University of Miami and a representative of neurosurgeons in private practice. To learn more, please visit http://fcbtr.ufl.edu/ About ABC (Accelerate Brain Cancer Cure) ABC is a venture philanthropy nonprofit organization that drives cutting-edge research and treatments for brain tumors. Through strategic partnerships with medical research centers, early-stage biotechnology companies and large multi-national pharmaceutical companies ABC has awarded more than 100 grants totaling over $20 million in brain tumor research funding to highly qualified investigators and physician-scientists from 54 institutions. To learn more, please visit http://www.abc2.org Lisa Vento Nielsen, educator, executive and entrepreneur from The Next Step, quote from first book published on Entreprneneur-ing The book includes lessons and homework assignments and, It is the first book of its kind to come with its own professor., as per Ms. Vento Nielsen. Past News Releases RSS The Next Step, run by Lisa Vento Nielsen, is a local Staten Island company focusing on college and career readiness that offers seminars and classes through Wagner College Department for Lifelong Learning as well as local high schools. The mission of the company is on preparing people for their next steps for both career professionals (resumes, cover letters and LinkedIn profiles) and education focused individuals (application essays). The Next Step is excited to announce the first book in the series on Entrepreneur-ing - a term coined by Ms. Vento Nielsen to represent the focus of using entrepreneurial skills in your daily life. The first book in this series, titled The Prof's Guide to Entrepreneur-ing: Using Entrepreneurial Skills to Launch Your Own Business or be the Boss of Your Career, focuses on lessons on how to apply these entrepreneurial skills. Find out more about the book at the Amazon author page for Ms. Vento Nielsen. She has been an educator for the last 13 years as well as an executive and an entrepreneur. By being the boss of your own career, you can stay hungry and focus on potential opportunities while staying limber enough to also potentially find something on your own to be more self-sufficient., says Ms. Vento Nielsen. The book includes lessons and homework assignments and, It is the first book of its kind to come with its own professor., as per Ms. Vento Nielsen. The next book in the Entrepreneur-ing series will focus on going from zero to launch with a full guide on how to write a business plan, execute and to begin to make money with your own business. The Next Step has a blog with content that is viewed and shared by many people per week. This book, while inspired by blog posts, contains all original content. Read more lessons on career management, education and more by clicking on the above link. Ms. Vento Nielsen is available for local speaking engagement, as well, on topics from the blog or about this book. In addition to this book series, there is also a book in production on College Readiness called: The Book on College Readiness: The Profs Guide to Surviving High School and Kicking Butt in College & Career. If you would like a great read for both parents and student, the first chapter is available for free for anyone who signs up for it here College and Career Readiness Book. The Next Step is locally owned business founded by Lisa Vento Nielsen, MBA, PMP. Ms. Vento Nielsen is a local Staten Island woman who attended St Johns University Staten Island and Rome, Italy campus for her BS in Marketing and MBA in International Finance, respectively. She is an educator, executive and entrepreneur who has been helping people identify and execute on their next steps in education and career for the past 15 years. You can find out more by visiting http://www.thenextstep1234.com or calling 347-733-9211. Follow The Next Step for daily blog posts on education, careers and more on Instagram and Twitter @thenext_step123. A significant number of veterans don't access the benefits that are available to them. We hope that, by coordinating with IDVA, we can help veterans and their families obtain the benefits they deserve. The Indiana Health Care Association/Indiana Center for Assisted Living (IHCA/INCAL) and the Indiana Department of Veterans Affairs (IDVA) have partnered on a new initiative to promote veteran care in IHCA/INCAL member facilities by providing important information on veteran care programs and advancing recognition of the issues affecting veterans. With a belief that the health care of veterans can be maintained through a better understanding of programs currently available to them, the IDVA plans to travel the state and visit facilities. During these visits, department representatives will meet with veteran residents and their families. They will also work with providers to do the following: Provide a better understanding of the difference between state and federal veterans care programs Answer questions pertaining to veterans issues as they relate to state benefits Share helpful IDVA literature and resources Learn more from providers about the challenges related to veteran care and how they might be improved These visits are strictly informative. The IDVA does not represent the federal government, county government or insurance companies. The representatives who conduct these visits are not inspectors or investigators. We are proud to support the IDVA in this important effort and encourage our members to participate, said IHCA/INCAL President Zach Cattell. As many of us are aware, a significant number of veterans don't access the benefits that are available to them because they either don't know about them or the system is hard to navigate. We hope that, by coordinating with IDVA, we can help veterans and their families obtain the benefits they deserve. Signature Healthcare of Muncie, an IHCA/INCAL member community, was one of the first to participate in this statewide effort. Ben Wells, the centers administrator, is himself a veteran and served in Operation Desert Storm. The Director of Nursing, Maintenance Director and Therapy Director at Signature Healthcare of Muncie are also veterans. Veterans affairs issues are near and dear to my heart and to the rest of the staff as well, said Wells. It's very difficult to understand the VA process and what different veterans have as benefits. I may have different benefits as a wartime veteran than someone who served stateside. This effort to connect veterans and available government services will be helpful, and Ill support it in any way I can. The Indiana Health Care Association/Indiana Center for Assisted Living (IHCA/INCAL) is Indiana's largest trade association and advocate representing proprietary, not-for-profit and hospital-based skilled nursing, assisted living communities and Independent Living. IHCA's more than 340 member facilities care for more than 25,000 of Indiana's geriatric and developmentally disabled citizens, the majority of whom are low-income Medicaid recipients. John Scott House Rehabilitation & Nursing Center in Braintree recently underwent an extensive renovation, including a complete refurbishment of all resident rooms and common areas (shown here). Our newly refurbished rehabilitation gym and living spaces demonstrate a continued commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents and short-term patients, Kristen Reilly McHugh, administrator of John Scott House. Past News Releases RSS Allerton House Assisted Living in... Welch Healthcare and Retirement... Welch Healthcare and Retirement... A recent Open House at John Scott House Rehabilitation and Nursing Center in Braintree, MA, showcased the extensive renovation to Welch Healthcare and Retirement Groups first skilled nursing center. Over 100 healthcare professionals, legislative leaders, dignitaries and Welch Group staff marked the occasion by touring the renovated nursing center. The extensive renovation, emphasizing resident comfort, safety and convenience, includes an expanded parking area with a new covered drive-up main entrance for the convenience of residents, family and friends; a complete refurbishment of all resident rooms and common areas. For patients and residents who require rehabilitation, John Scott House has relocated the rehabilitation gym to the newly designed post-acute short-term rehabilitation unit, and added a new dedicated living room and dining room. The renovation also features a remodeled front entrance and creation of new outdoor resident patio areas. John Scott House symbolizes our companys early history and the pioneering vision of my parents, Thomas and Rita Welch, says Richard M. Welch, president of Welch Healthcare and Retirement Group. My parents, with their modest 11-bed nursing home, were at the forefront of an industry in its infancy, affecting changes that shaped the future of long-term care, continues Welch. Today, John Scott House Rehabilitation and Nursing Center offers residents and their families the best of both worlds a center rich in tradition and quality short-term rehabilitative and skilled nursing care. John Scott House offers the Braintree community high-level rehabilitative, medical, and nursing care on a short- or long-term basis. The Welch Group nursing center consistently receives high marks from state agencies that are designed to oversee the quality of nursing homes throughout Massachusetts. In addition, John Scott was recently awarded The Joint Commissions Gold Seal of Approval for Nursing Care Center Accreditation as well as the organizations new Post-Acute Care Certification, which demonstrates the facilitys commitment to the highest level of care for its patients and residentsgoing beyond state and federal requirements. For generations John Scott House has been an integral part of the Braintree community, says Kristen Reilly McHugh, administrator of John Scott House Rehabilitation & Nursing Center. Our newly refurbished rehabilitation gym and living spaces demonstrate a continued commitment to enhancing the quality of life for our residents and short-term patients, added McHugh. In 1949 the founders, the late Rita M. and Thomas (Frank) Welch, with four young children, made the decision to open their two-story Victorian home to care for frail older adults. This event marked the founding of the John Scott House. Welch Healthcare and Retirement Group is a trusted family-owned senior services company. For over 65 years, the Welch Group has been a leading provider of rehabilitation, skilled nursing, assisted living memory care, assisted living and independent living options, adult day health and home care services in Massachusetts. To learn more visit http://www.welchhrg.com Beatport, the global pulse of electronic music and culture, is offering music creators an unprecedented, free Production Starter Kit loaded with everything aspiring producers need start making music through the BitTorrent Bundle direct-to-fan publishing platform. Beatports Production Starter Kit BitTorrent Bundle includes: More than 1 GB of free sounds, samples, and effects soundpacks from Beatport Sounds provided by over 20 participating labels. Three video tutorials provided by partner FaderPro on production techniques. 10 written tutorials from leading producers in the industry spanning technical walkthroughs, business lessons, and promotional advice. A 30% off coupon towards first-time purchases on Beatport Sounds. Taken together, these bundle elements combine both the content and the professional advice needed to begin mixing and producing music, at no charge. This is Beatports first BitTorrent Bundle promotion, and will be featured on the BitTorrent Bundle homepage starting Feb. 29. Part of our commitment to supporting creator culture is lowering the barrier of entry to newcomers interested in producing and mixing music, said Clark Warner, Beatport SVP of Artist & Label Relations. BitTorrents Bundle platform allows us to offer a vast collection of resources in a way that is both free and truly meaningful to anyone looking to get started, while helping our Sounds label providers reach a new audience. About Beatport Beatport is the global pulse for electronic music and culture a trusted source where fans, DJs, producers, and artists alike can create, connect and discover through a complete collection of music-inspired experiences, all within one platform. This includes listening to streaming music, downloading tracks, creating and sharing mixes, enjoying festivals and events both in person and live online, and accessing news, reviews, and insider videos. Together, Beatport offers a complete music experience for everyone, everywhere. Founded in 2004 as the principal source of music for DJs, Beatport today attracts an audience of more than 50 million unique visitors a year consisting of DJs, producers, and their fans. Beatport has offices in New York, Los Angeles, Denver, Berlin and Amsterdam. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. About BitTorrent Bundle BitTorrent Bundle is a direct-to-fan publishing platform dedicated to artist empowerment. Creators can use Bundle to share their stories, in any media format, and set their own pricing -- keeping 90% of all sales revenue, with access to rich audience analytics. Today, BitTorrent Bundle is home to over 30,000 content publishers, reaching an audience of more than 170 million passionate film and music fans around the world. In 2013, BitTorrent was named by Fast Company as one of the Worlds Most Innovative Companies for its work with artists. When Christians for Biblical Equality (CBE) published Janet Georges short book, Still Side by Side, in 2009, its goal was to produce a simple resource to summarize the egalitarian positionthat the Bible, properly interpreted, demands the equality of men and women. Today, Still Side by Side is playing a role in efforts to address violence against women in Haiti. In 2012, CBE partnered with Beyond Borders to produce a Haitian Creole translation of Still Side by Side, and it is having an impact. Sara Siebert is a Violence against Women and Girls Prevention Specialist at Beyond Borders and an advisor for Raising Voices, who developed SASA! An Activist Kit for Preventing Violence against Women and HIV (SASA!). SASA! is a community mobilization approach to ending violence against women, being used by Beyond Borders in Haiti. Siebert explains that the Creole translation of Still Side by Side has become an important part of this program in Haiti: Still Side by Side in Creole is regularly requested in more copies by our network of religious leaders working to end violence against women. Now that we train other organizations to use the Raising Voices SASA! methodology, which we adapted for Haiti, those other local organizations often ask for Still Side by Side as a supplementary material when engaging Christian religious leaders. CBEs president, Dr. Mimi Haddad, describes CBEs work as a perfect supplement to Raising Voices SASA! approach. SASA! is designed around the recognition that violence against women and the HIV/AIDS epidemic are rooted in a power imbalance between men and women. In much of the world, this power imbalance is justified by patriarchal readings of the Bible. For almost thirty years, CBE has sought to correct this grievous interpretive error. By supplementing the SASA! approach in Haiti with CBEs Still Side by Side, Beyond Borders has greatly expanded its ability to engage religious leaders with content specific to them. Beyond Borders is an organization supporting Haitian movements to end child slavery, guarantee universal access to education, end violence against woman and girls, and replace systems that oppress the poor with systems that support dignified work and sustainable livelihoods. In its effort to advance a biblical foundation for gift-based rather than gender-based ministry and service, CBE sponsors annual conferences, facilitates local chapters, hosts an online bookstore, and publishes two award-winning journals. For more information, visit http://www.cbeinternational.org. We thank our sponsor for making this content possible; it is not written by the editorial staff nor does it necessarily reflect its views. While our brains may be at capacity in terms of storage, our noggin space looks void compared to the digital organization throughout the electronics we work on. Finding a safe home for all those files is challenging READ THE REST This integration, along with the already existing ones with Twilio and Bria, offers a comprehensive telephony suite to track customer communications. Adding to Agile CRMs extensive communications suite, which include social, telephony, mobile and email communications, the new Skype integration enables both calling and call tracking. Users can make outbound calls, receive inbound calls, and take call notes. Skype calls are tracked and added to contact timelines, and users can access all Agile CRM functions while on Skype calls within the app, including sales and marketing automation campaigns, detailed contact histories, and reports and analytics. To set up the integration, users need an Agile CRM account and a Skype account. Voice calls are an integral part of sales and marketing processes. Our new Skype integration helps our users to drive more conversions and increase customer retention, says Agile CRM Founder and CEO, Manohar Chapalamadugu. This integration, along with the already existing ones with Twilio and Bria, offers a comprehensive telephony suite to track customer communications. More info: https://www.agilecrm.com/blog/new-skype-agile-crm-integration-calls/ About Agile CRM Created by the team behind popular live chat product ClickDesk, Agile CRM is the worlds first fully integrated sales and marketing suite - a CRM with full Marketing Automation functionality. The company launched in late 2013 and announced their open beta release in March 2014. In addition to their Sunnyvale, CA headquarters, Agile maintains offices in India and the Philippines. They are committed to open source development and the powerful simplicity of cloud computing. Agile CRM is free for the first two users, and after that subscription rates are extremely reasonable. More info: https://www.agilecrm.com/pricing.html MultiPlan, Inc., the industrys most comprehensive provider of healthcare cost management solutions, is accepting applications for its 2016 Rural Health Outreach Grant. The grant provides financial resources to hospitals serving rural areas to help them introduce or expand services, education, screenings and other programs aimed at improving the health of people in their communities. This year, MultiPlan will award four grants of $7,500 each. The Rural Health Outreach Grant is available to hospitals participating in one or more of MultiPlans healthcare provider networks including PHCS, MultiPlan, Beech Street, HealthEOS, and Texas True Choice, as well as the IHP, AMN, HMN and RAN networks. An application for the grant is posted in the Providers section of MultiPlans website at http://www.multiplan.com. Completed applications must be received by April 22, 2016. Grant recipients will be announced in May. Hospitals applying for the grant are encouraged to think outside the box in terms of finding new ways to serve the healthcare needs of people in their communities. Dr. Anthony Sposato, Corporate Medical Director for MultiPlan said, The world in which we operate is rapidly changing when it comes to the resources we have to communicate with and deliver services to healthcare recipients. We encourage grant applicants to consider these in their program development. To date, MultiPlan has awarded nearly $500,000 through the Rural Health Outreach Grant. The grants have helped fund a wide variety of health services supporting the healthcare needs of patients from all age categories from pediatric trauma programs to treating the behavioral health needs of the elderly. Information about previous grant recipients is available on the MultiPlan website. For questions about the grant, contact MultiPlan at rural(at)multiplan.com. About MultiPlan MultiPlan, Inc. is the industrys most comprehensive provider of healthcare cost management solutions. The company provides a single gateway to a host of network- and analytics-based solutions for managing the financial risks associated with healthcare claims as well as products that fight waste, abuse and fraud before payments are made. Clients include insurers, health plans, third party administrators, self-funded employers, HMOs and other entities that pay medical bills in the commercial healthcare, government, workers compensation and auto medical markets. MultiPlan is owned by an investment group led by Starr Investment Holdings and Partners Group. # # # In January 2016, Chief Academic Advisor for Turning Technologies Professor Eric Mazur, helped launch a pilot programme with the Business School at Pontificia Universidad Catolica de Chile in Santiago, Chile. In the first semester of March, the University will be implementing PI and JITT alongside clickers, and to help promote the pilot, Professor Mazur was invited to be a guest speaker at the International Education Summit 2016. This event was open to all Chilean and Latin American Universities and TurningPoint was extensively used. The Summit helped exchange experiences and learn about the latest trends and innovations in the field of student development in Higher Education and Leadership throughout Latin America. The goal is to continue contributing to dialogue and knowledge in these areas, inviting leading world-class educators and convening both local and global key players Dean of UC Institutional Management, Patricio Donoso Joining Professor Mazur was Professor Ana Maria Martinez, the Professor of Education and Director of the Department of Educational Leadership and Higher Education, Lynch School of Education, Boston College. Professor Martinez spoke about the opportunities and challenges presented by the technologies of the new century and the culture of the students and social networks. Alongside both of these key speakers was Enrique Ramos, Director of Student Affairs of the Technological Institute of Monterrey, who discussed the current trends in student development in Higher Education. The International Education Summit presented the Inter-American School Leadership Network, a body of innovative leaders across different fields and sectors, including corporate, private, public, academic and government organisations, which seeks to promote reforms in education leading to substantial improvements in school systems. The programme included selected presentations, specialised workshops, outreach initiatives, management development and Lecturers as leaders in Higher Education. In addition to guest speaking at the Education Summit, Professor Mazur was also invited to speak at 8 different events throughout Chile, using the clickers. Thanks to these events Professor Mazur reached 1,150 different teachers, University, K12, Corporate and Government authorities, sharing the benefits of Peer Instruction and how using clickers can support this fantastic teaching method. "Helping more low-income students graduate from college is key to addressing Austin's growing need for a motivated and high-caliber workforce," said Gregg Lowe. Breakthrough Austin, a nonprofit helping students become the first in their families to graduate from college, has received a $1 million matching donation from Gregg and Diana Lowe. The former Freescale Semiconductor CEO and his wife, a first-generation college graduate and Breakthrough Austin board member, hope to help the nonprofit raise a total of $2 million this year to support the enrollment of 600 additional students in the groups extensive academic support and guidance program. Breakthrough Austin believes that education is the best way to break the cycle of poverty and bridge the growing economic divide in our community. Founded in 2001, Breakthrough Austin makes a 12-year commitment to students, providing a program that integrates academics, enrichment activities, character education, and dedicated advisor-advocates to help students overcome obstaclesacademic, financial, or personaland stay on track through their entire educational career. Breakthrough Austin's long-term comprehensive approach prepares students to become first-generation college graduates. Breakthrough Austin currently serves 1,090 students in Austin and Manor. In the last three years, fully 100 percent of students enrolled in the program graduated from high school on time compared to 83 percent of all students from low-income households in Central Texas. In 2015, nearly 92 percent of Breakthrough Austins students enrolled directly in college compared to 44 percent of low-income students. And unlike similar programs in Central Texas, Breakthrough Austin continues to support students through college, resulting in a college graduation rate five times higher than the general graduation rate for low-income students. Diana Lowe hopes the couples donation will help Breakthrough Austin extend the geographic reach of the program to enroll students in other Central Texas school districts where the number of low-income students is growing as Austin becomes more expensive. Being the first in my family to graduate from a university opened my life to numerous possibilities, she said. I want to open that doorway to success to many more kids throughout Central Texas to help them reach their potential and achieve their dreams. Currently only six percent of low-income middle school students in Central Texas go on to graduate from college while two-thirds of new jobs created in the Austin area require a college degree. Breakthrough Austin levels the playing field between low-income students and their more affluent peers by offering the academic support and guidance needed for students to succeed academically and navigate the difficult transitions from middle school through college, said Breakthrough Austin Executive Director Michael Griffith. All of our students are blazing a new trail for themselves and their families, and that trail is mostly uphill. Were there to support them every step of the way. Gregg Lowe said he views Breakthrough Austins work as important not only for the children that they serve but also for Central Texas businesses that depend on well-educated employees to compete. "Helping more low-income students graduate from college is key to addressing Austin's growing need for a motivated and high-caliber workforce," said Gregg Lowe. "Breakthrough Austin has a proven track record of success through extensive and sustained support, and we want to help them change the lifetime trajectories for hundreds more kids and their families." About Breakthrough Austin Breakthrough Austin builds a path to college for low-income students who will be the first in their families to earn a degree. Breakthrough combines rigorous academic programming with personalized guidance and a do whatever it takes philosophy to make students nearly five times more likely to graduate from college than other low-income students in Central Texas. Breakthrough is growing rapidly; it currently serves 1,090 students, which will increase to more than 2,000 by 2020. Learn more at http://www.BreakthroughAustin.org. Both heterosexual and gay/lesbian students report less binge alcohol consumption when living in states or cities that have greater proportions of schools with programs and policies that support lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and questioning (LGBTQ) youth, according to new research from the University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health. These findings, published online today and scheduled for the March print issue of the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence, suggest that LGBTQ-affirmative schools are associated with lower binge-drinking frequency for nearly all adolescents, irrespective of their sexual identity. This research was funded in part by the National Institutes of Health and the IMPACT LGBT Health and Development Program at Northwestern University. Data were collected with assistance from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). School environments have a powerful influence on adolescents health, said lead author Robert W.S. Coulter, M.P.H., a doctoral student in Pitt Public Healths Department of Behavioral and Community Health Sciences. In particular, schools that are more affirming of LGBTQ students may be less stressful environments or foster healthy emotional resilience for all students, thereby making them less likely to turn to alcohol as a coping mechanism. Mr. Coulter and his colleagues analyzed data collected from the Youth Risk Behavior Survey from more than 50,000 students in eight states or cities nationwide. Students were asked about how many days in the past month they had at least one alcoholic drink and how many days they had at least one drink on school property. The questionnaire also assessed binge drinking by asking how many days in the past month the students had five or more drinks in a row, within a couple of hours. The team determined each jurisdictions overall school climate toward LGBTQ students using the School Health Profile survey. Jurisdictions were considered more affirmative of LGBTQ students if they had greater proportions of schools that have gay-straight alliances or similar student clubs and safe spaces for LGBTQ adolescents; prohibit harassment based on real or perceived sexual orientation; encourage staff to attend professional development activities about safe and supportive school environments for LGBTQ adolescents; provide LGBTQ-inclusive sexual health curricula; facilitate access to LGBTQ-competent health services outside of school; and facilitate access to LGBTQ-competent social and psychological services outside of school. Living in jurisdictions with more affirmative LGBTQ school climates was associated with significantly fewer binge drinking days for gay/lesbian and heterosexual students, compared with living in jurisdictions with less LGBTQ-affirmative school climates. Living in jurisdictions with more affirmative LGBTQ school climates also was significantly associated with fewer drinking days at school for adolescents unsure of their sexual orientation. By nurturing LGBTQ-affirmative school climates through inclusive policies and programming, schools may reduce certain alcohol use behaviors for gay/lesbian students, heterosexual students and students unsure of their sexual orientation, said Mr. Coulter. However, LGBTQ-affirmative school climates were not associated with reduced binge and other alcohol drinking behaviors for bisexual adolescents. One potential explanation for this finding is that LGBTQ-affirmative school policies and programs may not adequately address the needs of bisexual students as much as they do for gay/lesbian students, Mr. Coulter said. This is concerning because bisexual adolescents had the greatest number of drinking and binge drinking days when compared to other sexual-orientation subgroups, and bisexuals composed a larger segment of the population than gay/lesbian adolescents or adolescents unsure of their sexual orientation." Future studies should explore how school climates can be more affirmative of bisexual adolescentsand public health researchers and practitioners should design, implement and evaluate interventions specifically aimed at preventing and reducing alcohol use for bisexual adolescents. Additional authors on this research are Michelle Birkett, Ph.D., and Brian Mustanski, Ph.D., both of Northwestern University; Heather L. Corliss, Ph.D., of San Diego State University; Mark L. Hatzenbuehler, Ph.D., of Columbia University; and Ron D. Stall, Ph.D., of Pitt. This research was funded by grants from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (award R21HD051178), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (awards F31DA037647, K01DA032558 and K08DA037825) and the IMPACT LGBT Health and Development Program at Northwestern University. This project was made possible with assistance from the CDC Division of Adolescent and School Health and the work of state and local health and education departments. Movie poster for Despite the Falling Snow At a time when the low numbers of women directors, writers and producers is being noticed Despite the Falling Snow provides a welcome change At a time when the low numbers of women directors, writers and producers is being noticed throughout the industry, Despite the Falling Snow provides a welcome change. This is the third film that award winning female film director Shamim Sarif, has written and directed and the third time she has adapted one of her award winning literary novels to film. The film is produced by Hanan Kattan, Sarif's female partner and co-founder of Enlightenment Productions. Shamim Sarif's novel of the same name was chosen as one of The Independent newspapers books of the year when it was first published in 2004 and is being released to tie in with the film by John Blake Publishers on April 7th. Founded by a female producer and female director, Enlightenment Productions' aim has always been to provide a platform to nuture female talent in the film industry and 'Despite the Falling Snow' features strong female protagonists - with the two lead roles in the film played by rising star Rebecca Ferguson (Mission Impossible: Rogue Nation). Also starring are Charles Dance (Game of Thrones), Sam Reid (Belle) and Antje Traue (Man of Steel). Other contributions from accomplished women include a title song by music star Ella Henderson and score by Oscar winning composer Rachel Portman (Emma, Chocolate). Among the Executive Producers are two of the duo's long time collaborators, Katherine Priestley and Lisa Tchenguiz. Oliver Jackson-Cohen (The Raven), Anthony Head (Buffy the Vampire Slayer) and Thure Lindhardt (Keep The Lights On) complete the cast and the film was edited by Masahiro Hirakubo (The Duchess, Trainspotting). The movie offers a rare female perspective on the Cold War and marks the third feature collaboration between the duo. Their first film, I Cant Think Straight, became a cult success and won 11 awards. Their second, The World Unseen, premiered at Toronto International Film Festival and went on to garner 23 awards worldwide, including 11 South African Film & TV Awards (SAFTAs). Known as an actors director, Sarif has made a name drawing out nuanced performances from actresses in complex, leading roles that have traditionally been all too rare in the mainstream film world and that have inspired tens of thousands of fans to vocalise their support for her work via social media. Trailers and fan videos for Sarifs first two films have garnered over 100 million hits on YouTube alone. Despite the Falling Snow Synopsis: Moscow, 1959. Embroiled in a plot to steal secrets for the Americans at the height of the Cold War, Katya Grinkova (Rebecca Ferguson) finds herself torn between love and duty when she falls for her target, idealistic Soviet politician Alexander Ivanov (Sam Reid). As Alexander prepares for a diplomatic mission to the USA and the net closes around her, Katya must decide whether to sacrifice her love to protect him. New York, 1992. Alexander Ivanov (Charles Dance) is still haunted by the disappearance of his beloved Katya after his forced defection from the U.S.S.R. After 30 years of uncertainty, a surprising discovery may finally help him discover the truth about her sacrifice. Despite the Falling Snow is produced by Enlightenment Productions in association with SK Enlightenment Films Canada. For further information please contact Premier PR: Rupert Goodwin, Patrick Reed, Marine Monnier Online enquiries: Oliver Lavery Tel: + 44 20 7292 8330 firstname.surname(at)premiercomms.com Despite The Falling Snow is published by John Blake Publishing - for press information contact: Tory Lyne Pirkis at Midas PR . Tel: + 44 20 7361 7860 tory(dot)lyne-pirkis(at)midaspr(dot)co(dot)uk A Save Our Shores Beach Cleanup While both organizations benefit from this collaboration, the real benefit is seen by the students, our most promising stewards! ~ Rachel Kippen, Director of Programs, Save Our Shores WOLF (Web of Life Field) School has joined forces with Save Our Shores in a collaborative effort to educate a broader reach of California youth on marine stewardship and advocacy. WOLF School, a non-profit organization providing educational outdoor science camp to 3,500 students each year, will begin their new role as Sanctuary Stewards this March by incorporating three Save Our Shores beach cleanups into 5th and 6th grade student programs at Natural Bridges State Beach in Santa Cruz. As part of their mission of environmental stewardship, WOLF School advocates a respect for nature and teaches students their own ability to incorporate simple yet impactful acts of stewardship within their communities. WOLF School promotes litter pick-up while leading outdoor science programs, especially during their Redwood Trees to Coastal Seas initiative, a watershed education program made possible by a BWET grant from NOAA; and has a history of conservation at Natural Bridges, part of the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary, aiding in dune restorations and the weeding of invasive species. Realizing the like-mindedness of their efforts with Save Our Shores mission, and the potential for a broader outreach to California students through collaboration, WOLF School Program Coordinator Sergio Typhoon became an official Save Our Shores Sanctuary Steward, part of the core volunteer force of Save Our Shoresa nonprofit marine conservation organization in Santa Cruz with the mission of caring for the marine environment through ocean awareness, advocacy, and citizen action. With this new partnership in effect, 95 students from George C. Payne Elementary School in San Jose, 60 students from Deterding Elementary in Carmichael, and 60 students from Holy Spirit School in San Jose will visit Natural Bridges State Beach with WOLF School on March 11, March 17 and March 23, respectively. The beach day is part of each of the student groups 4-day, 3-night Residential Outdoor Science School (ROSS) program, based at WOLF Schools Monte Toyon campus in Aptos. For many inland students, WOLF School beach days mark their first trip to the ocean. This exhilarating experience is highlighted by WOLF Schools naturalist-guided science activitiestide pool and sand crab studies, landscape watercolors of Natural Bridges, erosion explosion tag, create-a-critter sand drawings, and moreall designed to support WOLF Schools state standards aligned educational programs. Now, for the first time, WOLF School campers will also participate in a Save Our Shores beach cleanup! Students will learn the importance of marine conservation, keeping plastic from our oceans and rivers, and will contribute to scientific data collected on marine debris found in the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary through Save Our Shores Cleanup Data Cards. Ending the experience, each student will leave with the take-home knowledge and empowerment to become lifelong global stewards. "Partnering with WOLF School is a natural and exciting fit for us, says Save Our Shores Director of Programs Rachel Kippen. Students are engaged in conservation education throughout the whole watershed while at WOLF, and ending their week with a Save Our Shores beach cleanup is an effective culmination of the concepts the campers have learned. While both organizations benefit from this collaboration, the real benefit is seen by the students, our most promising stewards!" For many student groups, WOLF School programs and beach days are only made possible through donation-funded scholarships granted by WOLF. For more information on WOLF School, or to make a scholarship donation, visit wolfschool.org. Interested in registering your student group for WOLF School or adding a Save Our Shores beach cleanup? Call (800) 592-4333 or email dgant(at)wolfschool.org. The Web of Life Field School (WOLF) is a program of United Camps, Conferences and Retreats (UCCR), a non profit camp and retreat property management organization. ParkWhiz Today at the Parking Industry Exhibition in Las Vegas, the nations largest on-demand parking app ParkWhiz has named industry veteran Todd Tucker as its new vice president of sales, as ParkWhiz continues its rapid expansion nationwide. In this newly created role, he will be charged with overseeing all of ParkWhizs sales operations. Todd is a seasoned industry executive whose expertise in parking operations makes him well equipped to not only meet but far exceed the needs of operators, said Aashish Dalal, co-founder and CEO of ParkWhiz. Todd shares our focus on being a great partner for operators. His command of the industry and experience building relationships make him the perfect addition for our team. Prior to joining ParkWhiz, Todd served with several national parking operators in various roles over his 17-year career, and rose through the ranks to the vice-president level. Most recently, he served as regional vice president of the Pacific Northwest region for Towne Park, overseeing approximately 70 locations in five states and over 1,100 employees. Prior to Towne Park, Todd worked for ABM Parking Services/System Parking Inc., based in Chicago, and served in a multitude of capacities such as Midwest regional manager, regional business development director and associate general counsel. ParkWhizs exceptional growth and innovative product makes it the No. 1 on-demand parking app in the nation, Tucker said. Aashish and the entire ParkWhiz team are committed to making parking a seamless experience for people. I share that vision and will strive to continue strengthening the overall ParkWhiz brand. Tuckers appointment comes on the heels of ParkWhizs recent $24 million Series C funding and acquisition of New York Citys No. 1 parking app BestParking. The acquisition gives ParkWhiz the most comprehensive coverage in the country with more than 4,000 parking locations and more than 800,000 spaces in more than 50 major cities across the U.S. In January, ParkWhiz also integrated with Fords new FordPass app, bringing the convenience of booking advanced parking to FordPass members. FordPass will feature ParkWhiz as one of its start-up companies providing a suite of transportation services, including smart parking. Tucker and the ParkWhiz team are currently at the Parking Industry Exhibition from Feb. 28-March 2. To learn more about ParkWhiz, visit ParkWhiz.com. About ParkWhiz: Headquartered in Chicago, ParkWhiz is the nations largest on-demand parking app. The companys website and mobile platforms provide a fast and efficient way for drivers to find and book guaranteed parking spaces before reaching their destination at thousands of parking locations across the country, from New York City to Chicago to San Francisco. ParkWhiz is an official partner and parking provider for Ford, Concur, and StubHub among many others. ParkWhiz has helped well over a million drivers seamlessly get where they need to be. For more information, visit ParkWhiz.com. Media Contact: Steve Vittorioso InkHouse for ParkWhiz 781-966-4100 parkwhiz(at)inkhouse(dot)com The Heart of the Civil War Heritage Area (HCWHA) will host a webinar watch and talk event on Wednesday, March 9 at the Frederick Visitor Center in conjunction with the American Alliance of Museums. The session will focus on tourism and changing demographic trends in the cultural heritage field. The Frederick event is one of six taking place across the country that day, along with programs in Atlanta, Austin, Cleveland, Rochester, and New York City. The program, which is free and open to the public, will begin at 1:30 PM with a half-hour dedicated to networking. A webinar, "Attracting the Tourist Audience: Local, Regional, Global, will run from 2:00-3:30 PM and will feature Melissa Cherry, senior vice president of marketing and cultural tourism, Choose Chicago; Kate Pittman, director of operations, Virginia Museum of Contemporary Art, Virginia Beach, VA; and Daniel Summers, Jr., director of marketing, Center for Puppetry, Atlanta, GA. The day will conclude with a discussion facilitated by Dan Spedden, President of Visit Hagerstown. The Frederick Visitor Center is located at 151 South East Street. Space is limited, and advance registration is encouraged. RSVP online. Attendees should plan to park in the East All Saints Street Parking Garage or on the street. HCWHA is an independent 501c3 nonprofit organization that is one of 13 certified heritage areas in Maryland, encompassing parts of Carroll, Frederick and Washington counties. Its mission is to promote the stewardship of our historic, cultural, and natural Civil War resources; encourage superior visitor experiences; and stimulate tourism, economic prosperity, and educational development, thereby improving the quality of life in our community for the benefit of both residents and visitors. Science teachers across Massachusetts face a massive problem: how to implement the new 2016 Science Technology/Engineering (STE) Standards required by the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education. The 264 curriculum standards are organized by subject and grade, ranging from pre-Kindergarten through high school, and all standards for each grade are required to be taught during the school year. For the 4th year, JogNog is working to enable effective implementation of these new standards together with two Massachusetts science teacher organizations: Massachusetts Association of Science Teachers (MAST) and Massachusetts Technology Education/Engineering Collaborative (MassTEC). The teamwork ramps up this spring with four workshops sponsored by JogNog on March 19 and April 9 from 8:30 AM to 12:00 PM at the following locations: Saturday, March 19, 2016: Silver Lake Middle School, Kingston, MA Springfield Renaissance School, Springfield, MA Saturday, April 9, 2016: Ipswich Middle School, Ipswich, MA Fannie E. Proctor Elementary School, Northborough, MA Experts on the new STE standards will facilitate introductory and advanced sessions to get teachers up to speed. Interested teachers can sign up for one of these sessions by following this link: http://tinyurl.com/MA2016STE. Changes to education standards add one more challenge to teachers across the state of Massachusetts, said Stephen Smith, CEO and co-founder of JogNog. Our goal is to make these changes as painless as possible for our teachers. No one knows how much time and cost will be required to implement the new standards, said Patrick Larkin, the Assistant Superintendent for Learning for Burlington Public Schools. The keys to controlling cost and time are planning and sharing the workload, and we appreciate JogNogs assistance in bringing the education community together. Teachers and administrators can get more information and download the new standards at the Massachusetts Department of Education website: http://www.doe.mass.edu/stem/review.html. About JogNog JogNog provides a comprehensive system for student practice and assessment that motivates students to learn in an engaging and fun way. Specifically designed to meet teachers needs, JogNog delivers quizzes aligned to Common Core, Next Generation Science Standards, and state curriculum standards for grades 2 through 12. JogNog uses the latest in educational research to create a competitive learning app that enhances student assessment and learning. JogNog is available on the web, iPad, iPhone, Android, Chromebook, Kindle Fire, and Windows Phone. For more information about JogNog, visit http://www.JogNog.com. According to Premium Times, 54 out of the 130 abducted girls may have been identified. In a video viewing session which took place at the ... Customer Support team members from Airbus Helicopters Inc. will be at Heli-Expo 2016 to meet with customers and update them on key service and support issues and tools. The Airbus Helicopters exhibit is located at Booth #9651. Mike Muniz, Director of Customer Support, and John Byus, Sales Manager for HCare, will be on hand during the show to discuss the support and services options offered under the Airbus Helicopters HCare programs. ECommerce Trainer Darren Huski will be onsite to demonstrate the latest revisions to Keycopter, the Airbus Helicopters online system for ordering spare parts, warranty updates, and viewing online technical publications. Also, customers can view a demonstration of the new Technical Request Management tool on the Keycopter platform. With this tool Keycopter users can initiate, track and database all technical questions and answers relating to Airbus Helicopters products. This is a powerful tool for managing technical requests that can be used by all members of an operators service organization. To learn more about this application or to schedule an introduction / training session while at Heli-Expo contact Brent Butterworth at brent(dot)butterworth(at)airbus(dot)com. On Wednesday, March 2, the Technical Support team will host an open forum for owners and operators of the AS365/EC155 Dauphin family of helicopters. The meeting is for operators to discuss their issues, concerns and share best practices. The Dauphin forum will be held from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. in the Kentucky Exposition Center, Freedom Hall, Suite V3. Technical support team members Brent Butterworth, Mark Jones and Peter Soderlund will be on hand to meet with operators. About Airbus Helicopters Inc. Airbus Helicopters, Inc. is the U.S. affiliate of Airbus Helicopters, the largest helicopter manufacturer in the world, and a subsidiary of the Airbus Group. Airbus Helicopters, Inc. manufactures H125 and UH-72A helicopters and markets, sells and supports the broadest range of civil and parapublic helicopters offered in the U.S. The product line represents the industrys most cost-effective, technologically-advanced helicopters serving all markets and missions. The companys headquarters and main facility are in Grand Prairie, Texas, with a large manufacturing and production facility in Columbus, Miss. For more information, visit http://www.airbushelicoptersinc.com. For more information please contact: Bob Cox Senior Manager, Communications and Media Relations Tel: 972-641-3525 Cell: 972-213-2038 bob(dot)cox(at)airbus(dot)com A new Philadelphia based company (Conshohocken, PA) is changing the landscape for businesses in need of working capital. CapitalFront, LLC brings the credibility and stability of institutional lending to small and middle market businesses. Founded by two successful Philadelphia-area executives with deep roots in financial services, risk management, and technology, CapitalFront offers independent business owners nationwide a comprehensive selection of financial products, along with a client-centered approach previously lacking in the business lending space. Until now, small business owners in need of a loan have been faced with either large institutional lenders who just arent interested in companies their size, or unsophisticated non-bank lenders who dont really understand their business, said Brian Simon, cofounder and CEO of CapitalFront. CapitalFront seeks to fill that gap in the market, providing fast and flexible access to working capital for independent businesses nationwide, with most funding available within three days of approval. The company brings a customer-first mindset to small business lending, viewing its clients as long-term partners and taking the time to help them understand their options and find the solution best suited to their business needs. Were passionate about helping businesses fund their growth and providing a positive experience for business owners who may be unbankable or who need working capital faster than another lender can provide, said Simon. We take the long view and the time to understand each individual businesss characteristics and requirements. We succeed when our clients succeed, so we want to help them understand which options will best move them toward their business goals and ensure their success. Products available to CapitalFront customers include fixed rate term solutions, merchant cash advances, receivable financing, factoring, and SBA loans. By offering such a wide range of programs, many of which are financed through private capital, CapitalFront is able to both move quickly and meet the diverse needs of a growing market segment that has long been underserved. Through our own experiences as entrepreneurs and investors, we saw a need for sophisticated financing options geared toward independent businesses, sole proprietors, LLCs, and other owner-operated companies whose needs are not being met by bigger institutional lenders, said Joe Greco, cofounder and chairman of CapitalFront. We strive to give these business owners the opportunity to succeed. About CapitalFront CapitalFront, LLC, a leader in small business lending, was launched in November 2015 to create an easy, accessible, and streamlined process for small and mid-size businesses to fund their growth. With roots in both entrepreneurship and institutional lending, CapitalFront brings a comprehensive range of lending options to independent business owners underserved by the commercial lending market. CapitalFront is headquartered in Conshohocken, PA, and serves clients nationwide. More information is available at http://www.capitalfront.com. About the Management Team Brian Simon, cofounder and CEO of CapitalFront, is a 20-year veteran of the lending industry and a former member of both the Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac advisory boards. He has held C-level positions at three of the largest non-bank mortgage companies in the United States and helped build these organizations from regional players into national industry powerhouses. Throughout his career, he has led significant M&A transactions and has also been responsible for whole loan trading, hedging and securitization, and a wide variety of structured financing activities. Joe Greco, CapitalFront chairman and cofounder, is a lifelong entrepreneur who founded Valley Forge based revenue cycle technology company PSC Info Group (now RevSpring). PSC was twice recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of Americas 500 fastest growing private companies. Greco is now Chairman of the Board of RevSpring. He also is the founder and Chairman of Thrivest Holdings, LLC, a leading provider of financial solutions in the legal and specialty funding sectors. ICSA Labs Excellence in Information Security Testing (EIST) Awards recognizes Quick Heals dedication to their continued quality improvement process and their contribution to a more secure environment for the industry. -- George Japak, ICSA Labs Quick Heal Technologies today announced it has been named a 2016 Excellence in Information Security Testing Award recipient by ICSA Labs for successful completion of five years of continuous ICSA Labs information security testing. The Excellence in Information Security Testing (EIST) Award recognizes clients that have continually tested their products and maintained their information security certification with ICSA Labs. ICSA Labs' clients benefit by working closely with technical analysts, leveraging criteria for product development, accessing research and participating in consortia, all with the objective of contributing to improved products that benefit customers and the security ecosystem. Upon accepting the award, Sanjay Katkar, Co-founder, Chief Technology Officer, Quick Heal Technologies Ltd. said, For more than 20 years now, Quick Heal has been dedicated to addressing the best interests of our customers. Being recognized by ICSA Labs is a major proof point of our longstanding commitment to excellence through ongoing testing, certification and best practices. Quick Heal, a global security company, launched its Seqrite product line in North America last year. Seqrite provides small-to-midsize enterprises (SMEs) what they need to thwart internal and external threats, cyberattacks and malicious intents before they strike, all through a simple-to-use, cloud interface. Offered through the North American IT channel, Seqrite delivers cross-platform support for Apple, Windows, iOS and Android endpoints, along with servers and networks/gateways, and total mobile device management. It requires a full commitment to achieve and maintain ICSA Labs information security certification, said George Japak, managing director, ICSA Labs. ICSA Labs Excellence in Information Security Testing (EIST) Awards recognizes Quick Heals dedication to their continued quality improvement process and their contribution to a more secure environment for the industry. About Quick Heal Technologies Ltd. Quick Heal Technologies Ltd.s Seqrite data security product line targets small-to-midsize enterprises (SMEs) and is designed to simplify security management across endpoints, mobile devices and networks. For more information on the Quick Heal Seqrite Partner Program, please contact 855-978-6117, email us.sales(at)Seqrite.com or visit the Quick Heal partner page. For more information on Quick Heal, visit http://www.quickheal.com. About ICSA Labs ICSA Labs, an independent division of Verizon, has been providing credible, independent, third-party product assurance for end-users and enterprises since 1989. ICSA Labs provides third-party testing and certification of security and health IT products, as well as network-connected devices, to measure product compliance, reliability and performance for many of the world's top technology vendors. ### Disclaimer This document is not an offer of the Equity Shares for sale in the United States. Any public offering of the Equity Shares to be made in the United States will be made by means of a prospectus that may be obtained from the Company or the selling shareholders and that will contain detailed information about the company and the management, as well as financial statements. The Equity Shares have not been and will not be registered under the Securities Act, and may not be offered or sold within the United States except pursuant to an exemption, or in a transaction not subject to, the registration requirements of the Securities Act and applicable U.S. State Securities laws. Accordingly, the Equity Shares are being offered and sold (i) within the United States to persons reasonably believed to be qualified institutional investors (as defined in Rule 144 A under the Securities Act); and (ii) outside the United States in offshore transactions in reliance on Regulation S under the Securities Act and applicable laws of the jurisdictions where such offers and sales occur. The Faculty Association of California Community Colleges has named Teachers Retirement Board Vice-Chair Sharon Hendricks a co-recipient of the John Vasconcellos Advocate of the Year award for 2016. Sharing the honor with Ms. Hendricks is co-recipient Lynn Shaw, an instructor of electrical technology at Long Beach City College. The award was presented yesterday at FACCCs Advocacy & Policy Conference, in Sacramento. The honor is awarded annually to a full time California community college faculty member who demonstrates exemplary work in statewide advocacy. Ms. Hendricks is a communication studies instructor at Los Angeles City College. She was elected in 2011 to the California State Teachers Retirement System Teachers Retirement Board where she serves as board vice chair and Investment Committee chair. This is richly deserved recognition for the tireless commitment Sharon puts forth on behalf of all the educators of California, said CalSTRS Board Chair Harry Keiley. Sharons dedicated service as a CalSTRS board member has resulted in a better and more secure pension for all of our members. I am honored to receive this prestigious award, named for one of the great heroes of education, California public policy, and indeed, the human spiritthe late State Senator John Vasconcellos, said Ms. Hendricks. Ms. Hendricks serves on the faculty at Los Angeles City College as president of the American Federation of Teachers Local 1512 chapter and retirement liaison for the Los Angeles College Faculty Guild. She is active in the Community College Council of the California Federation of Teachers. Ms. Hendricks participates in a working group for the Trustee Leadership Forum for Retirement Security as part of the Initiative for Responsible Investment at the Center for Public Leadership at the Harvard Kennedy School. She is a trustee leader on the AFT Trustee Council and treasurer for the Los Angeles Trustee Network. She also serves on the NCPERS board, participating on the Education and Healthcare committees. Ms. Hendricks and Ms. Shaw were nominated by faculty colleagues and selected for the award after consideration of candidates from across the state. The California State Teachers Retirement System, with a portfolio valued at $179.4 billion as of January 31, 2016, is the largest educator-only pension fund in the world. CalSTRS administers a hybrid retirement system, consisting of traditional defined benefit, cash balance and voluntary defined contribution plans. CalSTRS also provides disability and survivor benefits. CalSTRS serves California's 896,000 public school educators and their families from the states 1,700 school districts, county offices of education and community college districts. Follow us on Twitter @CalSTRS ThinkInk, a specialist communications agency serving high-growth business-to-business (B2B) companies across the advertising, airline, loyalty, mobile, payments, and travel sectors, has released Understanding Public Relations for B2B Companies: The Basics and Best Practices that Technology Companies and Startups Need to Know. The resource is free to download here. The guide is designed to provide executives and managers, primarily in business-to-business and enterprise-serving markets, with a greater awareness of the field and practice of public relations and to explain how effective B2B PR can benefit a companys bottom-line performance. Public relations for B2B purposes is different than for businesses that sell products and services primarily to consumers (B2C), in part because it requires specialized knowledge of the B2B companys industry. To effectively publicize how a B2B companys product or solution solves its buyers challenges or creates new opportunities, a PR agency must have a deep understanding of the companys market and speak its industry language (in terms of nuance and technological specifications). In addition to industry know-how, effective B2B PR requires know-who: Networks of industry contacts who will care about, and benefit from, the industry-specific information provided by a B2B company. Yet when backed by the right combination of know-how and know-who, B2B PR can do much more than generate publicity. As ThinkInks new guide explains in detail, B2B PR focuses on using increased visibility and exposure to drive business outcomes. A results-driven approach to B2B PR uses integrated marketing, PR, content, and business development services to drive measurable business growth over time. Few high-quality resources explaining the unique value and importance of B2B PR are available online, which is why ThinkInk was compelled to create and release the new guide. The resource provides information on: What PR is, and why its different for B2B companies; The primary and secondary goals of public relations for B2B companies; The PR tactics, strategies, and efforts that support larger B2B objectives; Examples of unique and influential integrated PR efforts from B2B companies; and Best practices for launching or improving a B2B PR initiative. B2B companies, enterprise technology providers, and startups face unique challenges in todays business landscape challenges that effective public relations can help them address, said Vanessa Horwell, author of the report. A strategic PR partner can be one of the most valuable assets for any B2B-focused company, especially those in the early stages of the business lifecycle. According to recent Dun & Bradstreet research, 67% of the typical B2B buyers journey is now done digitally, making it all the more important for B2B companies to invest in comprehensive digital PR efforts that grow brand awareness and drive qualified lead generation. Partnering with an experienced business-focused PR agency can help B2B companies use broader online exposure to shorten sales cycles and drive sustainable, long-term growth. Click here to download a copy of Understanding Public Relations for B2B Companies. For more information about ThinkInks solutions for technology companies and startups, please contact Elisabeth Denil, Business Manager, at edenil(at)thinkinkpr(dot)com. For ongoing insights on B2B public relations, marketing, business development, and more, visit the WeThinkInk blog. For more information on the report or to interview Vanessa Horwell, contact Paolo Ramos, Media Relations Specialist, at pramos(at)thinkinkpr(dot)com. About ThinkInk ThinkInk is a business-focused communications agency serving companies across the advertising, airline, loyalty, mobile, payments, and travel and hospitality sectors. Founded in 2004 with offices in Miami, New York, Toronto, London, and Brisbane, Australia, ThinkInk helps high-growth B2B companies and tech startups become highly visible, successful market leaders by delivering a higher level of integrated marketing, PR, content, and business development services than traditional PR agencies offer. Behind the ThinkInk brand lies a dedicated team of specialists who come from varied backgrounds including journalism, design, corporate marketing, and strategy and understand clients needs and challenges as industry insiders. To learn more about ThinkInk and its work for business-to-business and enterprise-serving companies, visit http://www.thinkinkpr.com. Altapix, Inc., the Florida Corporation founded in 2011 by John Ciampa, has changed its name to Altametry, Inc. The name change is accompanied by a re-branding initiative that will enable the company to better align its core ALTA Vu SmartBalloon product line with the industries they serve. Altametry will now concentrate on producing and branding its ALTA Vu products to fulfill the specific needs of key market verticals. The 2016 ALTA Vu product line is presently comprised of: ALTA HiVu: a basic SmartBalloon system featuring a HD camera and targeting consumers. ALTA GoVu: a basic SmartBalloon system that enables consumers to fly with their own GoPro camera. ALTA TriVu: an advanced SmartBalloon system featuring three cameras for professional and Persistent Low Altitude Surveillance (PLAS) use. ALTA BatVu: an advanced SmartBalloon system boasting a FLIR thermal imaging camera, plus two additional cameras for nighttime professional and Persistent Low Altitude Surveillance (PLAS) use. ALTA MarVu: a specialized SmartBalloon system boasting maritime imagery and analysis capabilities and Persistent Low Altitude Surveillance (PLAS) use. ALTA TerraVu: a specialized SmartBalloon system offering agricultural imagery and analysis capabilities developed in conjunction with Demeter, Inc. This rebranding effort will allow Altametry to develop our own distinct identity within the unmanned aerial vehicle category, said John Ciampa, Founder and CEO. ALTA SmartBalloon products are on pace to revolutionize the current aerostat industry, and our goal is to position Altametry as the undisputed leader in this category. Altametry represents the second major aerial imagery company that Ciampa has spearheaded. He previously founded and served as CEO of Pictometry International (pictometry.com), a New York based company that pioneered aerial oblique image capture. About Altametry, Inc. Altametry, Inc. is a privately held aerospace technology company headquartered in Coral Gables, Florida. Altametry is the creator and manufacturer of ALTA branded SmartBalloon products. The ALTA Vu line of SmartBalloons is current serving the academic research, agriculture, consumer hobbyist, maritime, photography, and public safety industries. Altametrys ALTA Tactical division specializes in providing Persistent Low Altitude Surveillance (PLAS) solutions for law enforcement, homeland security, and defense mission requirements. For additional information on Altametry, please visit altametry.com Newscycles integrated systems provide tools that deliver competitive business advantages and strategies for us to better serve our customers and generate new revenue. Silvia Lieb Vice-CEO Moser Holding AG NEWSCYCLE Solutions signed an agreement with Tiroler Tageszeitung (http://www.tt.com) a Moser Holding AG news media company in Innsbruck, Austria, to implement Newscycles content and advertising management software. The installation will incorporate 150 seats and includes ONSET, Newscycles next-generation digital content management platform. Moser Holding AG is one of the largest media companies in Austria with many daily and weekly newspapers, magazines, radio stations and several news media websites in its portfolio. With Newscycles integrated content, digital and advertising systems, Tiroler Tageszeitung gains a powerful platform that immediately increases productivity throughout the complete digital and print publishing processes. The Newscycle software will also assist Tiroler Tageszeitung in its efforts to increase sales and develop future business strategies. Tiroler Tageszeitung indicated that its primary focus in selecting Newscycle is to explore new revenue growth opportunities and expand its customer relationships through improved account management and leveraging of the softwares cross-media ad selling abilities. We see the value in selecting all of our systems from one vendor and we have a long-term trust in Newscycles technology, innovation and development, said Lukas Letzner, Managing Editor, Tiroler Tageszeitung. Silvia Lieb, Vice-CEO, Moser Holding AG, adds, To remain profitable and create a financially stable future, we know we have to reinvest in our system landscape. We want to work with a partner that focuses on growth and innovative technologies. Newscycles integrated systems provide tools that deliver competitive business advantages and strategies for us to better serve our customers and generate new revenue. Tiroler Tageszeitung is an impressive and innovative news media company with ambitious objectives in place, said Patric Breuer, Newscycles Regional Business Manager, Germany. Newscycle is dedicated to supporting these efforts. We are always pleased when an existing customer looks to Newscycle again to deliver new systems they will use to help meet revenue goals. Tiroler Tageszeitung participates in Newscycles Customer Enhancement Forum, Strategic Partners Program, and is a member of Newscycles Client Advisory Board. Together we focus on future software features and new product innovations. Tiroler Tageszeitung is also a Newscycle Beta partner and customer reference site. About Newscycle Solutions NEWSCYCLE Solutions, which was formed by the combination of DTI, SAXOTECH, Atex AdBase and MediaSpan, delivers the most complete range of software solutions for the global news media industry, including news content management, advertising, circulation, audience, and analytics. Newscycle is a trusted technology partner serving more than 750 media companies with 8,000 properties across more than 30 countries on six continents. The company is headquartered in Bloomington, MN and has U.S. offices in Florida, Michigan and Utah; with international offices in Australia, Canada, Denmark, Germany, Malaysia, Norway, Sweden, and the United Kingdom. For more information about Newscycles product innovations for 2016, go to: newscycle.com/innovations2016 Media Contact: Lisa Speth NEWSCYCLE Solutions Marketing Communications Manager Birgit Ankjaer NEWSCYCLE Solutions EMEA Marketing Manager About Moser Holding AG The company, Moser Holding in Innsbruck, is one of the leading publishing houses in Austria. The company is well known for its competence in all forms of regional media and offers a broad variety of media products in Tyrol and Austria. The range of products includes the largest daily newspaper in Tyrol and a variety of different regional magazines, private radio and digital services. Moser Holding also provides regional weekly papers within the subsidiary company RMA and offers a network of lifestyle magazines, both services are provided nationwide. More than 1.400 employees work for the company in Austria. Media Contact: Lisa Berger Moser Holding AG Communications Manager We have many customers in common that will benefit from the two-way syncing of apartment and resident data. This relationship is long overdue. Clients using On-Site and MRI Software will now enjoy seamless data integration and mutual support from both companies. On-Site delivers a complete marketing and online leasing platform for housing providers and renters. By utilizing the data from MRI on vacancies and pricing, On-Site provides the online command center to engage future and current residents through listing syndication, drip marketing, custom-designed community websites, resident qualification, payment processing and a 100% online lease closing process. Once leads are closed, On-Sites integration will feed all resident and lease information into MRIs ledger for reporting and analysis. MRI further complements the solution with property and investment management modules. Were thrilled to partner with an established property management software leader, said Tim Moreno, On-Sites interface program manager. We have many customers in common that will benefit from the two-way syncing of apartment and resident data. This relationship is long overdue. ABOUT ON-SITE Founded in 1999 with technology and service 100% based in the U.S., On-Site is bringing the apartment industry up-to-speed with what todays consumer expects from the renting experience: modern technology and a focus on usability. On-Sites end-to-end online leasing platform covers everything from community marketing and renter qualification to lease contract generation with e-signatures and online storage. Plus integrated communication hubs to drive resident retention after move-in. The result is a simplified rental experience that leads to greater customer satisfaction and translates directly to the positive side of the balance sheet. For more information about On-Sites leasing solutions, visit http://www.on-site.com or contact one of On-Sites online leasing experts at (855) 667-6500. The Science of Mother-Infant Sleep Parents and practitioners need to make informed, evidence-based decisions about mother-infant sleep Praeclarus Press shares valuable resources on infant sleep for parents in honor of National Sleep Awareness Week. Infant sleep can be one of the most difficult part of adjusting to parenthood, as it changes often and many parents have expectations that do not meet the reality of life with a newborn. Worrying about sleep is a common parental worry: Is it safe to sleep with their babies or does it increase the risk of SIDS? Is sleep training necessary? Or is it safe or harmful? When should babies start sleeping through the night? Is it okay for babies to continue feeding at night or to fall asleep while breastfeeding? New parents need guidance on these issues that is based on current research. , The Science of Mother-Infant Sleep: Current Findings on Bedsharing, Breastfeeding, Sleep Training, and Normal Infant Sleep, from Praeclarus Press addresses these questions and more. Edited by Dr. Wendy Middlemiss and Dr. Kathleen Kendall-Tackett, the book features chapters by leading experts in mother-infant sleep from the U.S., Canada, Great Britain, and Australia. The goal of this book is to bring together recent evidence about the safety of sleep practices so that parents and professionals can make informed, evidence-based decisions. The Science of Mother-Infant Sleep is a collaborative project by an international working group of experts on mother-baby sleep. Topics include: Bedsharing What should parents avoid and how can they make it safe? Does it increase the risk of SIDS? What is its impact on breastfeeding? Sleep-Training and Cry-It-Out Techniques Do they impact infant health and development? What should parents know? Involving Parents in Decisions about Infant Sleep What is normal infant sleep? How can parents calm a crying baby? For the month of March enjoy complimentary shipping with code "SafeSleep2016" when you order The Science of Mother-Infant Sleep from the Praeclarus Press online store. Additionally, white papers are available for viewing and complementary download. Wendy Middlemiss, Ph.D., CFLE, is associate professor of Educational Psychology at the University of North Texas. Her work encompasses research examining the effect of different childrearing approaches and exploring how to share this information with families and communities to promote infant, child, and family health. Kathleen Kendall-Tackett, Ph.D., IBCLC, FAPA is a health psychologist, IBCLC, Fellow of the American Psychological Association, Past-President of APAs Division of Trauma Psychology, Clinical Professor, School of Nursing, University of Hawai'i, Manoa, Editor-in-Chief of both Psychological Trauma and Clinical Lactation, and owner of Praeclarus Press. Praeclarus Press is a small press specializing in womens health. It features books, webinars, and products that support women's health throughout their lifespan. Based in Amarillo, Texas, the mission of Praeclarus Press is to produce materials that change womens lives. Mossy Nissan Oceanside is hosting a public car auction Saturday, March 5, starting at 10 a.m. at Mossy Nissan Oceanside, 535 College Blvd., Oceanside, CA 92056. They will be auctioning off approximately 60 used cars. It is a great opportunity for the community as they will be offering certified units, non-certified units, as well as lower priced as-is offerings. Brands will include Nissan, Dodge, Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, Ford, and others. Mossy Oceanside will even have some units with starting bids as low as $100.00. Immediate payment or Finance arrangements will be required on some of the vehicles, however, financing will be available on qualifying units. Mossy is hiring a hometown auctioneer to host the event, and in honor of our great men and women of the military, part of the proceeds will be donated to Semper Fi Fund (Up to $100 per vehicle sold). The Semper Fi Fund provides immediate financial assistance and lifetime support to post 9/11 wounded, critically ill and injured members of all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families, ensuring that they have the resources they need during their recovery and transition back to their communities. They work to ensure that no one is left behind. For more information on the The Semper Fi Fund, visit: https://semperfifund.org/ Mossy Nissan Oceanside offers outstanding service and selection to North County San Diego car buyers. They are close to the 5 Freeway and the 78 Freeway, so car buyers in Vista, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Mira Costa, and Camp Pendleton can come to Mossy Nissan Oceanside for great deals on new cars, used cars and commercial vehicles. Mossy Nissan Oceanside has been serving the San Diego community since 1999. We have a huge inventory of San Diego new cars with better quality, better safety features and better innovation! For more info, contact: matt(at)mossy(dot)com An honest essay has numerous characteristics: original thinking, a good structure, balanced arguments, and plenty more. But one aspect often overlooked is that an honest essay should be interesting. It should spark the readers curiosity, keep them absorbed, make them want to stay reading and learn more. An uneventful article risks losing the readers attention; whether or not the points you create are excellent, a flat style, or poor handling of a dry subject material can undermine the positive aspects of the essay. The matter is that a lot of students think that essays should be like this: they believe that a flat, dry style is suited to the needs of educational writing and dont even consider that the teacher reading their essay wants to search out the essay interesting. You might want to have online essay editor service to boost your confidence in writing with an error-free output. Academic writing doesnt need to be and shouldnt be bland. The excellent news is that there is much stuff you can do to create your essay more attractive, while youll be able only to do such a lot while remaining within the formal confines of educational writing. Lets study what theyre. 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A way of doing this with a dry subject is to create what youre talking about that seems relevant to the critical world, as this is often easier for the reader to relate to. Emulate the fashion of writers you discover interesting When you read lots, you subconsciously start emulating the fashion of the writers you have read. Reading benefits you a lot, as this exposes you to a spread of designs, and youll start to require the characteristics of these you discover interesting to read. Borrow some creative writing techniques Theres a limit to the quantity of actual story-telling youll do when youre writing an essay; in the end, essays should be objective, factual and balanced, which doesnt, initially glance, feel considerably like story-telling. However, youll apply a number of the principles of story-telling to create your writing more interesting. consider your own opinion Take the time to figure out what its that you think instead of regurgitating the opinions of others. Cut the waffle Rambling on and on is dull and almost bound to lose the interest of your reader. Youre in danger of waffling if youre not completely clear about what you wish to mention or havent thought carefully about how youre visiting structure your argument. Doing all your research correctly and writing an essay plan before you begin will help prevent this problem. Editing is a vital part of the essay-writing process, so edit the waffle once youve done a primary draft. Read through your essay objectively and eliminate the bits that arent relevant to the argument or labor the purpose. employing a thesaurus isnt always a decent thing Avoid using unfamiliar words in an essay; theres too great a likelihood that youre misusing them. You may think that employing a thesaurus to seek out more complicated words will make your writing more exciting or sound more academic, but using overly high-brow language can have the incorrect effect. Avoid repetitive phrasing Please avoid using the identical phrase structure again and again: its a recipe for dullness! Instead, use a variety of syntax that demonstrates your writing capabilities and makes your writing more interesting. Mix simple, compound, and complicated sentences to avoid your paper becoming predictable. Use some figurative language Using analogies with nature can often make concepts more accessible for readers to know. As weve already seen, its easy to finish up rambling when youre explaining complex concepts mainly after you dont know it yourself. One way of forcing yourself to think about a couple of pictures, present it more simply and engagingly is to form figurative language. This implies explaining something by comparing it with something else, as in an analogy. Employ rhetorical questions Anticipate the questions your reader might ask. One of the ways ancient orators held the eye of their audiences and increased the dramatic effect of their speeches was by using the statement. A decent place to use a statement is at the top of a paragraph, to steer into the following one, or at the start of a replacement section to introduce a brand new area for exploration. Proofread Finally, you may write the top interesting essay an instructor has ever read. Still, youll undermine your good work if its plagued by errors, which distract the reader from the particular content and can probably annoy them. Many people are prescribed Adderall and then sell it for profit, according to neurologist Dr. Don Gervais. He says the effects on the brain are similar to taking meth. Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), established in 1969 by the Church of Scientology and eminent psychiatrist, Prof. Thomas Szasz, warns parents to be alert to their teen-aged children being illicitly sold the stimulant Adderall (amphetamine and dextroamphetamine) in light of Louisiana neurologist, Don Gervais recent statement that abuse can lead to progressive and early drug induced Parkinsonism. Many people are prescribed the drug and then sell it for profit, according to Dr. Gervais. He says the effects on the brain are similar to taking meth.[1] CCHR points out that the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration also categorizes Adderall in the same class as highly addictive substances, such as cocaine, morphine and opium.[2] According to a FOX News report, the use and abuse of Adderall is prevalent on high school and college campuses, but the short- and long-term risks of using the prescription drug are still unknown to many.[3] Meanwhile, a study released in February 2015 from the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health shows that incidences of misuse and emergency room visits related to Adderall also increased dramatically for young adults between 2006 and 2011.[4] CCHR was contacted by one Los Angeles grandfather, Mr. Luis, whose two school-aged grandchildren were put at risk of being prescribed Adderall when their mother was told both had ADHD. Googling for information about ADHD, he and his daughter found CCHRs website and its Parents Know Your Rights page and CCHRs Psychiatric Drug Side Effects Searchable Database. We discovered we were not the only ones with this concern, Mr. Luis stated. The Luis family is one example of the scores of parents contacting CCHR to obtain facts about what has become a $9.9 billion a year in drug sales ADHD industry because they are not obtaining the information through prescribers. According to the IMS Vector One database, in 2013, 62,843 0-5 year olds were taking Adderall (or a generic version of it).[5] Whether it is the school complaining about a childs behavior, or the parent observing emotional or educational problems, CCHR says parents are being told their child has a mental disorder that needs medicationoften powerful stimulants like Adderall. However, experts say ADHD is not a neurobiological condition, as parents are frequently told: A study by Lydia Furman, published in the Journal of Child Neurology, admitted: In summary, the working dogma that ADHD is a disease or neurobehavioral condition does not at this time hold up to scrutiny of evidence.[6] Court expert, Dr. Toby Watson, PsyD., says, Psychological and psychiatric diagnosis are unlike any true medical diagnosis found in the lab or with real tissue and medical evidence.There are no biological tests, scans or lab [work] done. Rather, psychiatric diagnoses are created by a consensus of a mental health group.[7] A PR Newswire about an analysis from business intelligence provider GBI Research reviewing the ADHD market in June 2015, said, While marketed therapies treat ADHD symptoms, they are not curative; fundamental causes of the disease remain unknown. Yet, there are 68 therapies currently being developed to treat ADHD.[8] Already coming off the pipeline is the chewable tablet form of extended-release methylphenidate (called QuilliChew ER), which was approved by the FDA in December 2015 for children aged 6 years and older.[9] Mr. Luis is concerned that the more stimulants get approved by the FDA, the more the risk is of children and teenagers also abusing them. Because Adderall and other stimulants are prescription drugs, students misleadingly think they are not dangerous at all.[10] But DeAnsin Parker, a New York City clinical neuropsychologist, says that when people try to stop using ADHD drugs, they may experience extreme mood swings and behave strangely or unpredictably. The symptoms are all the things that we see if someone were getting off a cocaine addiction, Parker stated.[11] This is information the Los Angeles family was never given and it took research and looking for non-harmful medical alternatives to psychiatric labels and drugs to ensure the grandchildren were never drugged. As a public information mental health rights group, CCHR provides parents with facts from which they can make informed decisions about their health care and behavioral needs. About Citizens Commission on Human Rights: CCHR is a non-profit, non-political, non-religious mental health watchdog. Its mission is to eradicate abuses committed under the guise of mental health and enact patient and consumer protections. CCHR has helped to enact more than 150 laws protecting individuals from abusive or coercive mental health practices. References: [1] Adderall abuse linked to heart disease, Parkinson's, Fox 8 News, 19 Feb 2016, fox8live.com/story/31269203/adderall-abuse-linked-to-heart-disease-parkinsons. [2] Drug Fact Sheet, Amphetamines, Drug Enforcement Agency, dea.gov/druginfo/drug_data_sheets/Amphetamines.pdf; deadiversion.usdoj.gov/schedules/; dea.gov/druginfo/ds.shtml. [3] Adderall abuse linked to heart disease, Parkinson's, Fox 8 News, 19 Feb 2016, fox8live.com/story/31269203/adderall-abuse-linked-to-heart-disease-parkinsons. [4] Adderall misuse rising among young adults, CBS News, 16 Feb. 2016, cbsnews.com/news/adderall-misuse-rising-among-young-adults/ [5] IMS, Vector One: National (VONA) and Total Patient Tracker (TPT) Database, Years 2008-2013, Extracted 2014, cchrint.org/psychiatric-drugs/stimulantsideeffects/adderallsideeffects/people-taking-adderall/. [6] What is attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)? J. Child Neur. 2005 Dec;20(12):994-1002, ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16417850. [7] Subjective Diagnosis and Limitations to Psychiatric Diagnosis, Dr. Toby Watson, drtobywatson.com/diagnosis.html. [8] Treatment Market Value for Attention-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder to Exceed $13 Billion by 2020, PR Newswire, June 12, 2015, prnewswire.com/news-releases/treatment-market-value-for-attention-deficit-hyperactivity-disorder-to-exceed-13-billion-by-2020-507101171.html. [9] Megan Brooks, FDA Clears Chewable Methylphenidate (QuilliChew) for ADHD, Medscape, 7 Dec 2015, medscape.com/viewarticle/855572 [10] Arianna Yanes, Just say yes? The rise of 'study drugs' in college, CNN, April 18, 2014, cnn.com/2014/04/17/health/adderall-college-students/. [11] Amanda Leigh Mascarelli, Study drugs can be dangerous, Misusing prescription drugs to improve school performance isnt just dangerous. Its cheating. Science News, Society for Science, October 25, 2013, student.societyforscience.org/article/study-drugs-can-be-dangerous. Representatives with Crescent Harbor Modern (https://crescentharbormodern.com/) announced today that the company will soon be selling new George Kovacs Lighting products in its online store. Were very excited about the availability of these new products, said Tim Fossett, president and spokesperson for Crescent Harbor Modern, which is the online arm of The Lighthouse, a family-owned lighting company founded in 1972. Fossett explained that some of the new products include: Links' family of pendants, 'Exposed' family of chandeliers and pendants, and 'Dots' family of lighting products. The Links family of pendants, according to Fossett, are a nostalgic reference to 1950s decor. Links, creates an intriguing paradox with its warm white fabric shade nestled within a sleek metal perforated shell, Fossett pointed out. The signature oval pattern is emphasized with the soft glowing light. Links is available in several size and usage options. The Exposed family of chandeliers and pendants. They are, Fossett said, transparent yet smoked, exposed yet mysterious. In addition, a glistening chrome finish suspends tinted smoked glass globes while showcasing an alluring illumination. Grace gives praise to todays stunning contemporary homes lighting needs. Fossett went on to note that the Dots' family of lighting products are clean contemporary design translated from pendant, flush mount, and bath bars. The crisp detailing creates depth with a subtle graphic pattern, Fossett said, before adding, Refined simplicity with an elegant brushed nickel finish. For more information, please visit crescentharbormodern.com/george-kovacs and crescentharbormodern.com/about-us.html About Crescent Harbor Modern Crescent Harbor Modern is the online arm of The Lighthouse, a family-owned lighting company founded in 1972. The company specializes in a high-touch customer service approach to retailing lighting fixtures, ceiling fans and other related items. Contact Details: Tim Fossett President 88 York Street US Route One Kennebunk, Maine, 04043 Toll Free Phone: 1-888-355-9525 Local Phone: 1-207-985-3535 Fax: 1-207-985-4569 Source: Crescent Harbor Modern ### Jeff Kinney, author of the "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" series, will lead a free interactive webinar for kids and teachers on March 2. "Our class has read 8,000 pages, which is phenomenal for any students and especially dyslexic students." Since January, thousands of students in more than 275 schools across the U.S. have been pumped, geared up and reading like never before in the Great Reading Games, a national reading competition launched by the national nonprofit Learning Ally. What's unique about this event is that all of the participating students have a print reading disability like dyslexia, blindness or visual impairment. Traditionally, these same students are left out of book clubs and other mainstream reading programs which can damage their self-esteem and cause them to fall behind in school. During Learning Allys Great Reading Games, however, these students have shown that they can overcome their learning disabilities with the right technology combined with inspiration and support from their teachers. In seven weeks, 4500 students have read more than 1.3 million pages, using Learning Ally audiobook technology which provides them with access to an online library of more than 82,000 human-narrated books. They can choose to read titles from textbooks, non-fiction or literature, and download the books directly to their tablets, computers, smartphones, iPods and other devices. Students can read in school, on the go, or anywhere they have a device. The Learning Ally Great Reading Games kicked off in January and will culminate this Wednesday, March 2 - Read Across America Day and Dr. Seusss Birthday with two free national webinars featuring New York Times bestselling authors, Jeff Kinney ("Diary of a Wimpy Kid") and Robert Beatty ("Serafina and the Black Cloak"). Students from top-reading schools will be eligible to submit their questions directly to these popular authors. After they run live, the webinars with Mr. Kinney and Mr. Beatty will be available on demand. The Jeff Kinney webinar will take place March 2 at. 11 am EST. Register for the Kinney webinar. The Robert Beatty webinar will follow at 1 pm EST Live from Valley Springs Middle School in Mr. Beattys hometown of Asheville, NC. Register for the Beatty webinar. Leaning Ally will announce the top 10 schools in the 2nd Annual Great Reading Games on its website at http://www.LearningAlly.org/GreatReadingGames. Winning schools will receive prizes, including Chromebooks, gift cards, headphones and student prize packs. In addition, honorable mentions will be awarded in several categories. Winning schools, teachers and students will be notified individually and more information will be made available on winners locally. About Learning Ally Founded in 1948, Learning Ally supports K-12, college and graduate students, veterans and lifelong learners all of whom read and learn differently due to dyslexia, blindness or visual impairment, and other disabilities. Through its extensive community events and support programs, Learning Ally enables parents, teachers and specialists to help students thrive and succeed. The organization hosts live and virtual events for families and teachers; provides instructive webinars led by experts as well as peer-to-peer sessions led by students; personal consultations for parents; and professional development workshops for educators. Learning Allys collection of 82,000 human-narrated audio textbooks and literature titles can be downloaded by students using their smartphones and tablets, and is the largest of its kind in the world. As a 501(c)3 nonprofit, Learning Ally is partially funded by grants from state and local education programs, and the generous contributions of individuals, foundations and corporations. For more information, visit http://LearningAlly.org. Volunteers serving breakfast at The Community Kitchen Nobody leaves Evas hungry, but hunger is still a big problem When Evas Community Kitchen first began serving a hot breakfast on December 1, it was anticipated that they would see perhaps 50 guests per day. Less than three months later, they are serving triple that number each morning. The food is good, noted Jose, a regular guest at breakfast and lunch who volunteers in the kitchen and often helps unload food from delivery trucks. Nobody leaves Evas hungry, but hunger is still a big problem, Jose observed. The programs dramatic growth demonstrates the degree of food insecurity in the community. The breakfast program at Evas Village was launched during the coldest months of the year, to offer an additional hot meal and warm, safe respite for community members in need. The need for breakfast grew quickly. We started with 65 guests and now we are averaging 150 guests every morning. Many of the guests have personally thanked me for providing a hot meal and coffee, noted Executive Chef Director Darryl Dela Cruz. He explained that the number of guests usually increases over the course of a month. Not as many people show up the first 10 days of the month. It really starts to get crowded towards the end, when some of our guests assistance runs low, he said. Breakfast service is a natural extension of Evas mission: combining a nutritious, hot meal and a warm welcome with an opportunity to learn about services that can help guests recover hope and rebuild their lives. The addition of breakfast within our Community Kitchen is a testament to our care for those we serve, as well as an outpouring of generosity and help from our donors and volunteers, noted Donna Fico, senior director of program and resource development at Evas Village. Each day, volunteers from the Recovery Center at Evas Village join the kitchen volunteers to serve coffee, getting to know the guests and offering them information about Evas services and programs. Since they started serving breakfast, 91 unduplicated individuals have been referred to the Recovery Center for services needed. Both of Evas meal programs depend on donors financial support, donated food and the support of volunteers to serve the guests. Founded by Msgr. Vincent E. Puma in 1982, Evas Community Kitchen began by serving 30 meals a day in Paterson, NJ. Through more than three decades of service, Evas Village has established a unique record in facing community challenges and changing the lives of the hungry, homeless and addicted. It has grown from a simple soup kitchen to become the most respected anti-poverty program in New Jersey. The organizations twenty programs are housed in numerous buildings, spanning several city blocks in downtown Paterson. Since 2011 Evas has been serving nearly 400 lunches a day to guests, in addition to meals for clients living in Evas shelters and recovery programs (more than 400,000 annually). To find out about joining the 3,500 volunteers who assist with Evas Village programs each year, visit the volunteer page on our website or email Liz Matthews, Evas Village Volunteer Coordinator, or call 973-523-6220 x 248. To find out more about Evas Village, visit our website. Jeremy Carlin was recently appointed vice president, business development at high-impact, mobile and native ad platform Jetpack. Jetpack (http://jetpack.net) today announced it has expanded operations with the opening of a New York office and the appointment of Jeremy Carlin to the newly created position of vice president, business development. Most recently, Mr. Carlin was director of sales at Sizmek, where he specialized in solutions for publishers. He was previously sales development manager, publisher solutions at Innovid and earlier served as manager, sales development at Videology. In his new post, Mr. Carlin will lead Jetpacks east coast operations and introduce its high-impact, mobile and native advertising solutions to new partners while building upon its strong relationships with existing clients such as Time, Inc. and Wenner Media. Jeremy's deep understanding of the advertising landscape and longstanding career servicing the publisher community make him the ideal choice to broaden our New York presence, said Chris Tragos, co-founder, business development and operations at Jetpack. Mr. Carlins career experience also includes programmatic, mobile marketing, native advertising and content aggregation, further qualifying him to help lead Jetpacks expansion. Jetpack was started in 2009 by a veteran team of web publishing experts and the co-founders of BuzzMedia (now Spin Media). Based on their own experience, they set out to build an innovative ad platform to help publishers easily and quickly create and deliver highly viewable and engaging advertising across every screen. With over 100 premium publishers now using its technology, Jetpack is preparing for its next wave of growth with the appointment of Mr. Carlin and its new office in New York. About Jetpack Jetpack is a rich media advertising platform that gives publishers and designers powerful tools to create, serve and track high-impact, mobile and native advertising campaigns across every screen. Known best for its dynamic units like the VideoWall, SuperHeader and ActiveSkin, Jetpack offers a wide range of HTML5/responsive, IAB Rising Stars and custom creative executions. For publishers, Jetpack offers the ability to easily deploy new and highly-differentiated ad products without the need for pre-defined ad slots or requiring any changes to their pages. For agencies and creative professionals, Jetpack provides an easy-to-use authoring system to design and deliver the most viewable and highly engaging rich media advertising available in the industry today. In addition, its Jetpack Studio team offers clients full-service creative and technical support. Founded in 2009, privately-held Jetpack is headquartered in Santa Monica, California. For more information or to schedule a demo, visit http://jetpack.net. # # # Contact: Tony Winders tony(at)jetpack(dot)net 818-554-9236 GuardiCore, a leader in internal data center security, today announced it has extended its data center security platform, now rebranded as the GuardiCore Centra Security Platform, to provide granular visibility and policy definition across data center and cloud applications, adding to its real-time breach detection and response capabilities. GuardiCore is demonstrating the Centra Security Platform at its RSA booth 4422 in the North Hall. As data centers have become increasingly virtualized, it has created a virtual blind spot for IT as they try to track the activity in their data centers, gain insights on running applications and quickly detect new and potentially malicious applications. Organizations can now benefit from the expanded capabilities included in the new GuardiCore Reveal module to better understand applications, visualize all communications between workloads and easily spot suspicious behavior within them. The continuous pace of change to applications and workloads inside the data center has left security teams in the dark, said Pavel Gurvich, GuardiCore CEO and co-founder. Our customers constantly tell us they lack the proper tools to see the application flows in their data center, leading to slow change processes and inadequate security policies. With GuardiCore, our customers get deep visibility into application flows, allowing them to more granularly understand and protect them. GuardiCore Reveal provides visibility of process-level activity and correlates it with the network events, producing a visual map of the entire data center network. It detects anomalies and generates incidents, allowing the administrator to get a quick view of all workloads, and the ability to deep-dive into specific assets, processes and time frames. Administrators can also get access to all GuardiCore data via a powerful REST API which enables programmatic access to the collected raw data for advanced use cases. GuardiCore Reveal also provides security teams with the ability to define granular security policies between processes and monitors those policies for variations and suspicious activity. Variations from defined policies are presented in the comprehensive visual map, and logged as real-time security incidents within the Incident View of the GuardiCore management console for further investigation. The new capabilities in GuardiCore Reveal support the following critical use cases for effective and agile data center security: Enable micro-segmentation IT can more easily build micro-segmentation policies according to the real application usage in the data center. Detect and investigate suspicious activity Visually detect suspicious behavior in process-level communications between trusted assets and allowed security policies. Monitor application flows - Monitor new connections to processes or assets, alerting in real-time on unknown or unauthorized connections. As a leading communications group in Israel, we are committed to use the most advanced cyber security technologies to protect our infrastructure and ensure service availability to our subscribers, said Ziv Maor, CISO at Cellcom Israel. GuardiCore provides us the advanced capabilities and visibility that enables us to meet such goals." GuardiCore Centra Security Platform GuardiCore Reveal is part of the version 2.0 release of the GuardiCore Centra Security Platform. The Centra Security platform protects data center assets using a unique combination of process-level visibility, threat deception, semantics-based analysis and automated response to detect, investigate and mitigate data center threats in real-time. Pricing and Availability The version 2.0 release of the GuardiCore Centra Security Platform, including GuardiCore Reveal, will be available in Q2 of this year. Pricing for the GuardiCore Centra Security Platform, which includes GuardiCore Reveal process-level visibility and control, starts at $25,000 per year. More information can be found at http://www.guardicore.com/product/ About GuardiCore GuardiCore is an innovator in internal data center security focused on delivering more accurate and effective ways to stop advanced threats through real-time breach detection and response. Developed by the top cyber security experts in their field, GuardiCore is changing the way organizations are fighting cyber attacks in their data centers. For more information, visit http://www.guardicore.com. Intellitec Solutions, based in Wilmington, DE, will host their thirteenth annual spring Microsoft Dynamics User Group on May 12th at the Chase Center on the Riverfront. Hosted semi-annually, the Intellitec Solutions user group is the Mid-Atlantics longest running partner led forum for end users of Microsoft Dynamics. Fueled by the success of past sessions, the latest updates to Dynamics GP and Dynamics SL, more than 100 clients are expected. We are seeing a lot of interest among clients for this springs User Group, said Rick Sommer, President of Intellitec Solutions. Its great to see so many of our valued clients in attendance, and to see so many gain the knowledge they need to do their job. This years agenda will feature separate tracks for Microsoft Dynamics SL and Microsoft Dynamics GP. Among the highlights for Dynamics SL will be a look at new features in SL 2015, Tips & Tricks and several other training topics. Highlights for the Dynamics GP sessions will include the impending release of GP 2016, as well as a look at key 3rd party software. There will also be Tips & Tricks, highlights from Microsoft Envision, as well as other training. In addition to the presentations, there will be networking time for clients to interact with other users of Microsoft Dynamics, a chance to meet one on one with Intellitec staff. Clients interest in attending should contact Intellitec Solutions at 866-504-4357, or visit the registration page. About Intellitec Solutions Intellitec Solutions is a leading ERP and CRM provider strategically located along the influential business corridor between Washington and Philadelphia. Specializing in Dynamics GP, Dynamics SL, Microsoft CRM and Intacct, they have conducted thousands of engagements helping companies in diverse industries choose and implement software solutions to improve financial or customer relationship management. Using a proven system designed to maximize efficiency and business insight, Intellitec Solutions team of seasoned professionals provides value-added expertise to their clients. For more information or to schedule a demo of our solutions, please visit http://www.intellitecsolutions.com or call 866-504-4357 # # # # All products mentioned in this release are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective holders. Pearson today unveiled the keynote speakers for its 28th Annual Conference on Technology in Collegiate Mathematics (ICTCM), March 10-13, in Atlanta. All three prestigious speakers bring unique perspectives to the conference theme of closing the diversity gap in the STEM fields. Kicking off ICTCM 2016 keynotes on March 11 will be Harvey Mudd College Associate Professor and Statistician Talithia Williams, focusing on Addressing the Achievement Gap in STEM. She will be followed later in the day by Gary Rockswold, author/professor emeritus, Minnesota State University, on the topic of Can Mathematics Be More Inclusive? Mona Akmal (formerly of code.org), and currently vice president, store technology at online retailer Zulily, will explore Diversity in STEM: An Industry Perspective in her keynote address on March 12. WHO: Pearson 28th Annual International Conference on Technology in Collegiate Mathematics (ICTCM). WHAT: ICTCM 2016 will focus on addressing the diversity gap in STEM-related fields. This international event will attract over 700 college level math educators, researchers, administrators, students and others. Hosted by Pearson, Clayton State University, and a volunteer committee of respected mathematics and statistics educators and researchers, ICTCM explores how digital learning technologies can be integrated within courses to improve teaching and learning. Attendees can choose from more than 150 interactive breakout sessions, including mini-courses, MyMathLab and MyStatLab training workshops, and other professional development opportunities. Live-streaming and on-demand access to virtual tracks will also be available to all attendees for up to six months following the conference. In addition, continuing education units (CEUs*) for ICTCM professional development workshops are available for conference participants. A student poster session focused on technology in mathematics, as well as a networking event will also take place on March 11 from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. EST. . WHEN: March 10-13, 2016 WHERE: Atlanta Marriott Marquis, and virtually WHY: ICTCM will focus on emerging technologies and new methods and systems of teaching to increase achievement. Attendees will learn about the latest educational technologies from the experts who use them, share knowledge and experience with their peers, and get involved on an international level in the world of teaching with technology. Register to attend ICTCM 2016 here. Follow @PearsonNorthAm and use #ICTCM16 to join the conversation. About Pearson Pearson is the world's learning company, with 36,000 employees in more than 70 countries working to help people of all ages to make measurable progress in their lives through learning. For more information about Pearson, visit http://www.pearsoned.com. Media Contact: Scott Overland, scott.overland@pearson.com, 202-909-4528 Star Refrigeration's Angus Gillies and John Clark with IOR President Graeme Maidment Not only was it a very interesting and relevant topic but it was a very professional and clear paper that will be of value to many in the future as part of the IOR proceedings. Star Refrigeration has once again cemented itself at the very forefront of the refrigeration industry, with two of its staff members receiving a significant industry award for a revolutionary paper comparing evaporative and air cooled condensers in industrial applications. John Clark and Angus Gillies were awarded the Lightfoot Medal, an annual prize given to the best paper submitted in the session. The Star Refrigeration engineers received a medal engraved with their names, a sum of 500 donated by the Lightfoot Defence, and a certificate as well as having their winnings presented at the respected Institute of Refrigeration IOR Annual Dinner on 25th February 2016. Dr Rob Lamb, Sales and Marketing Director of Star Refrigeration, said "Wed like to send our heartfelt congratulations to John and Angus, who join the ranks of elite experts with a Lightfoot Medal to their name. Their paper, researched in 2014, produced clear and straightforward evidence to demonstrate that air-cooled condensers are the best option for industrial applications in the UK, and the entire team here at Star Refrigeration is thrilled that their hard work in proving this has been recognised by the IOR." Despite being more expensive to buy, air-cooled condensers have lower running costs, making them a cost-efficient option for UK industrial businesses. Using data gathered from all over the country, Mr Clark and Mr Gillies demonstrated that the operating costs of a refrigeration plant with air-cooled condensers is typically 14% lower than the cost of a plant with evaporative condensers considerable savings for businesses keeping an eye on their bottom line. The paper also went as far as debunking the common convention regarding the use of evaporative condensers in high capacity applications. Even with the higher cooling capacities of 2000KW, the payback for an air cooled condenser when compared with an evaporative condenser is less than two years, with life cycle costs reduced by an impressive 14% per year thereafter. The 2016 ceremony isnt the first time that Star Refrigeration staff have been honoured for their work in the refrigeration industry previous Staff to win the Lightfoot Medal in several different occasions include Dr Forbes Pearson, Mr David Blackhurst and Dr Andy Pearson, confirming Star Refrigeration as a forerunner in the world of refrigeration research and development. Presenting the award, Graeme Maidment, President of the IOR, said, "The IOR members have voted this paper the best presentation of the year from amongst seven potential candidates. Not only was it a very interesting and relevant topic but it was a very professional and clear paper that will be of value to many in the future as part of the IOR proceedings." Mr Clark joined Star Refrigeration in 2010 as a design engineer. He was involved in design and optimisation work for a wide range of applications such as process hydrocarbon refrigeration systems, two stage ammonia heat pumps, Organic Rankine Cycle power generation from waste heat, high ambient drilling mud coolers as well as traditional chill, cold store and blast freezer industrial plant. In 2015, he joined the Star Technical Solutions team as a consultant specialising in Energy Management for industrial refrigeration and heat pump equipment. Mr Gillies was an engineer in the Merchant Navy then went to Strathclyde University, graduating with an honours degree in Mechanical Engineering in 1993. He then joined Star Refrigeration as a Service Engineer and later worked as a Commissioning Engineer and Technical Manager. In 1999, Angus became Technical Director and his responsibilities include industrial contract design and procurement, and the Electronics Department. The paper can be downloaded at the IOR website: http://www.ior.org.uk/app/images/downloads/ClarkGilles4Dec2014London.pdf. For more information about Star Refrigeration and their groundbreaking research, please visit the website: http://www.star-ref.co.uk. Today, The FSH Society is celebrating its 25th anniversary. For a quarter century, the FSH Society, a nonprofit, patient-driven organization that supports research and education, has helped individuals with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) and their families educate the general public, fundraise for research to find a cure and has fostered community support. Founded in 1991 by Stephen Jacobsen and Daniel Perez, two individuals with FSHD, the Society has grown to be the worlds largest and most progressive grassroots network for those with FSHD, their loved ones, clinicians, and researchers who are dedicating their work to FSHD. Since its inception, the Society has established and has funded more than $6.85 million in research grants, which have been leveraged to over $94 million in funding from the National Institutes of Health. Its efforts have resulted in many accomplishments, including the discovery of the genetic causes of FSHD. Other milestones include: In 1994, Daniel Perez gave his first testimony before the U.S. House of Representatives Appropriations Committee to advocate for federal attention and funding for FSHD. 1998, the first FSH Society Delta Railroad fellowship for high-impact research was awarded to Alexandra Belayew in Belgium, this seminal work to study the DUX4 pseudogene would later show that it causes FSHD. In 2001, the FSH Society wrote the MD CARE Act to include all forms of muscular dystrophy, which was later enacted into law by President George W. Bush. In 2010, research initiated by the FSH Society led to the discovery of a specific genetic package, called DUX4, associated with FSHD. In 2015, a research team funded in part by the FSH Society was able to deactivate DUX4 expression in human FSHD muscle cells using CRISPR/CAS9 technology. Most recently in 2015, The Society received its eighth-straight four-star rating from Charity Navigator. I am overwhelmed with joy, pride and humility to be celebrating the 25th Anniversary of something Stephen and I started as a way to focus resources on understanding FSHD and ultimately finding treatments, said Daniel Perez, co-founder President and CEO of the FSH Society. Together our Boards, Scientific Advisors, staff, patients and individuals who support us, and those that work with us have accomplished an unprecedented amount of progress in the past 25 years. It is no small feat how fast weve advanced and I look forward to a day in the not too distant future where we gain a complete and clear understanding of how FSHD works and can then treat and ameliorate the disease. said Perez. In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the FSH Society will be hosting a range of events throughout 2016. On June 21, 2016 the FSH Society will be teaming up with the international FSHD community to host the first-ever World FSHD Awareness Day. The Society will also be convening an international conference and gala for researchers and patients on November 10 through November 12, 2016 in Boston, Massachusetts. More information on how to volunteer, attend or otherwise get involved will be available soon on the FSH Societys website. The FSH Society also hopes that 2016 will be a standout year for fundraising and funding research, with a fundraising goal of over $2.3 million and plans to fund nearly $1 million in new research grants. To help the FSH Society reach its goals, donate here. FSHD, one of the most prevalent forms of muscular dystrophy, is a degenerative muscle disease that causes progressive weakness, usually starting with the face, shoulder, arms, legs and torso, but may affect almost any skeletal muscle in the body. FSHD affects approximately 870,000 people and there is no treatment or cure, yet. Approximately one-quarter to one-third of patients end up in wheelchairs. About the FSH Society: The FSH Society is a world leader in combating muscular dystrophy. The non-profit has provided millions of dollars in seed grants to pioneering research worldwide, creating an international collaborative network of patients and researchers. The FSH Society seeks to serve as a source of information and support for all patients and families with FSHD; act as a driving force in the development of research directed towards treatments and ultimately a cure; and bring support to patients and research for FSHD through effective engagement of governmental and private sector organizations and entities. For eight consecutive years, the Society has received the Charity Navigators four-star rating, the highest distinction held by less than four percent of non-profit organizations in the country. The FSH Society offers a community of support, news and information for FSHD patients and families through its website at http://www.fshsociety.org. For more information about FSHD, please contact the Society at 781-301-6649. Press Contacts: June Kinoshita: The FSH Society 781.301.6649; june.kinoshita(at)fshsociety.org Theresa Masnik: SHIFT Communications 617.779.1871; FSHSociety(at)shiftcomm.com EDR, the national provider of data, platform solutions, and insight for the property due diligence industry, today announced it has partnered with Appraisal Nation to offer their complete suite of valuation services through EDRs Collateral360 platform. Appraisal Nation is one of the largest independently held Appraisal Management Companies (AMC) in the country, serving nearly 400 clients with access to over 20,000 appraisers covering every county in America. The partnership with Appraisal Nation includes offering the firms residential and commercial appraisal services, reviews, evaluations, automated valuation models (AVMs) and broker price opinions. We are excited to announce our partnership with Appraisal Nation and the addition of their valuation services to Collateral360. The addition of Appraisal Nation to Collateral360 allows our clients to manage their residential valuations in a compliant environment, including those related to Regulation B, said Guy Tassinari, managing director of EDRs Lender Solutions Group. Tassinari said that partnering with Appraisal Nation was a logical choice given their outstanding customer service and focus on quality, noting that in 2015 the firm maintained an average nationwide turn-time of 5.8 business days and has one of the lowest revision rates in the country at under 8%. In 2014 they were recognized as a TOP 50 Mortgage Service Provider by Mortgage Executive Magazine for the second year in a row. We are thrilled with this key strategic partnership with EDR, said Appraisal Nations John Tedesco, senior vice president of business development. Appraisal Nation has a long history of being an industry leader and innovator with a proud reputation. When we consider national strategic partnerships we look for those with the highest track record of success, proven quality, and a reputation in the industry above all others. EDR exceeds those expectations. Used by nearly 900 lending institutions as a Software as a Service (SaaS) application, Collateral360 (http://www.collateral360.com) allows real estate lenders such as banks, credit unions, private lenders and others to improve the efficiency of their workflow, manage risk, and access data to make important lending and business decisionsall within a secure environment. The platform makes it easy to manage vendors and procure services such as appraisals, evaluations, flood certificates, and other property specific data. Our vision is to provide a property centric platform that offers lenders a complete view of their real estate assets for property due diligence during origination and for monitoring collateral during the life of the loan term, said Tassinari. About EDR EDR provides data and workflow tools to property due diligence professionals. Since 1990, EDR has been curating Americas most comprehensive repository of environmental and land use information from both public and private sources. This national database contains over 3.1 billion current and historical records including the complete Sanborn Library archive of land use maps. EDR also conducts market research and shares strategic industry intelligence through a variety of online channels and in-person events. Headquartered in Shelton, CT, EDR has regional offices located throughout the U.S. The company is wholly owned by the Daily Mail and General Trust, plc (DMGT). For more information about EDR, please visit http://www.edrnet.com. Lex Mundi has published a new report, Cross-Border M&A: How General Counsel Can Manage Demand, Deliver Quality and Articulate Value, that addresses how some general counsel are responding to risk environments, managing complex relationships with internal and external stakeholders and finding ways to add value to M&A. As the global M&A market surpasses pre-crisis levels, the unprecedented size of deals requires general counsel to contend with large numbers of jurisdictions at a time when the increasing activity of shareholders and regulators around the world cannot be ignored. Highlighted in the report are four critical disciplines that make the difference between more and less successful outcomes: effective and proactive relationship management with local regulators and internal stakeholders; careful communication and influence across the organization; common sense approach to process and project management to maintain efficiency; and relentless focus on post-merger implementation from the onset of the transaction. The report also focuses on the heightened attention acquiring companies must now devote to anti-corruption compliance of target companies. Cross-Border M&A: How General Counsel Can Manage Demand, Deliver Quality and Articulate Value was developed by general counsel and Lex Mundi member firms lawyers around the globe. The best practices outlined in the report show how general counsel are better managing the growing demands upon the legal function, identifying more effective ways to deliver advice to the business and compellingly articulating their value across the organization. Read a preview of the report. About Lex Mundi Lex Mundi is the worlds leading network of independent law firms with in-depth experience in 100+ countries. Lex Mundi member firms offer clients preferred access to more than 21,000 lawyers worldwide a global resource of unmatched breadth and depth. Each member firm is selected on the basis of its leadership in and continued commitment to its local market. The Lex Mundi principle is one independent firm for each jurisdiction. Firms must maintain their level of excellence to retain membership within Lex Mundi. Through close collaboration, information-sharing, training and inter-firm initiatives, the Lex Mundi network is an assurance of connected, on-the ground expertise in every market in which a client needs to operate. Working together, Lex Mundi members are able to seamlessly handle their clients most challenging cross-border transactions and disputes. Member law firms are located throughout Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Asia and the Pacific, Latin America and the Caribbean and North America. Through Lex Mundis nonprofit affiliate, the Lex Mundi Pro Bono Foundation, members also provide pro bono legal assistance to social entrepreneurs around the globe. For more information, please visit http://www.lexmundi.com and http://www.lexmundiprobono.org. Romance - Adventure in the Shenandoah Valley and Blue Ridge Mountains Romance and Adventure Experiences in the Shenandoah Valley I recognize that this is not a couch potato generation, said Nancy Craun, founder of Go Blue Ridge Travel. So in 2016, we are going to start a new series of road trips for the romantic adventurist. The plans will center around the northern Shenandoah Valley along the Interstate 81 Corridor picking a luxury lodging location, exploring foodie passions from beverage to food, and then adding outdoor activities. Trip #1 will start with a stay at the beautiful Hillbrook Inn and Spa in Charles Town, West Virginia. With three properties to select from, Hillbrook Inn has been open for two decades and is an easy road trip outside of DC. Situated on George Washingtons first land purchase in 1750, there are 18 guest suites between three properties on thirty acres. The main house has the European atmosphere. The Hawthorne suites are in the extensively restored Hawthorne House dating back to the 1714. The Hawthorne offers guests beautiful views of the farming community and apple orchards. Booking the romance package, couples receive a dozen roses, chocolate covered strawberries, and a bottle of champagne as well as a romantic five course dinner for two. Now to kick the weekend up a notch. After arriving on Friday evening, awake Saturday morning, enjoying a wonderful breakfast and then head out for a great hike to Harpers Ferry - Virginius Island. Rather than parking in the busy Harpers Ferry lot at the Visitor Center and doing the typically touristy thing, GoBRTs guest author, Marilyn Finnemore, recommends parking in the small lot on Shenandoah Street just off Route 340 West as one crosses the Shenandoah River; this is where the Appalachian Trail connects to the old Shenandoah Canal and provides a gorgeous scenic hike into the village. Go early to get a parking spot, and then plan to spend a few hours wandering. Then drop back to Hillbrook after a light lunch in Shepherdstown at Mellow Moods, a locals favorite. Shepherdstown offers nice shopping with eclectic shops and is also a wonderful town to explore the back alleys where the local community life takes place. Take a break before dinner with a couples massage spa experience back at Hillbrook Inn. Then as part of the romance package, enjoy a romantic five course dinner for two. The evening can end with a competitive fun game of billiards or darts at the Hawthorne or a night cap at the tavern here at the Main House. Sunday, it is another gourmet breakfast prepared by Chef Justin Meyer. Check out of Hillbrook and follow another great hike. There are several great places to catch the Appalachian Trail close to many Northern Virginia wineries, restaurants and historic sites. Blackburn Trail Center just outside Round Hill, Virginia is one of those places. At the end of one's hike, enjoy a glass of wine and charcuterie at Loudoun Vineyard a reminder to the couple that the Shenandoah Valley is a wonderful place for romance and adventure. Regretfully head back to the city with the plan to return soon to Virginia mountains. Check out Go Blue Ridge Travel's blogs on upcoming trips with next month Romance-Adventure based at Bryce Resort. About GoBlueRidgeTravel.com Launched in December 2011, Go Blue Ridge Travel (GoBRT) is an e-commerce marketing company using digital internet channels to both create a travel ecosystem community. Founded and owned by Nancy Craun who grew up in the area and has 30 years of experience in the event planning, restaurant, hotel, and marketing arenas. GoBRT covers 160 plus mile radius of the Interstate 81 Corridor spanning the states of Virginia, West Virginia, and Maryland. In 2014, the Kids Trail was launched with grants from Virginia Tourism and now has over sixty partners with a mission to showcase multi-generational travel in the Blue Ridge Mountains and Shenandoah Valley. Contact: Nancy Craun Founder and President GoBlueRidgeTravel.com and ShenandoahValleyKidsTrail.com Phone: 540.533.1853 Email: info(at)GoBlueRidgeTravel(dot)com After battling it out against Americas best beer bars, it was announced that The Brass Tap in Round Rock, Texas has emerged victorious as the Best Beer Bar hailing from the Lone Star State in CraftBeer.coms 51 Best Beer Bars in America poll. The upscale craft beer and wine bar was crowned the decisive Texas favorite after more than 9,000 participants casted votes on a CraftBeer.com survey between August and December of last year. The Brass Tap team found out they had taken the top spot in Texas, beating out the big city bars, weeks ago, but had to remain tight-lipped until the February 23rd release. We are truly honored by this recognition of our craft beer bar, said Steve Sheets, owner of The Brass Tap in Round Rock. What makes this honor so special is that we were selected based on the nomination and votes of our customers. Thats pretty amazing when you consider that we were competing against all of the great craft beer bars in Dallas, Houston, Austin and the rest of the state of Texas. Brass Tap owner Steve Sheets teamed up with his son to bring the brand to the Austin area three years ago. Since then theyve drawn a steady crowd of Central Texass most enthusiastic beer lovers with more than 60 draughts and 200 bottled and canned varieties. Late this spring, Sheets will open his second Brass Tap location in Austin at the popular Domain shopping center. Steve is such a great brand ambassador and is leading the charge of The Brass Tap development throughout the Austin area, said Brass Tap CEO Chris Elliott. Widely regarded as one of the top craft beer cities in America, its quite an honor for Steve and The Brass Tap to be recognized this way by local beer enthusiasts. With more than 30 open units and 50 upcoming openings, The Brass Tap is positioned to quadruple in size in the Southeast in the next few years. ABOUT THE BRASS TAP Founded by Jeff Martin in 2008, Tampa, Florida based The Brass Tap is an upscale craft beer and wine bar celebrated for its more than 300 varieties of imports, local craft beers and a large selection of premium wines and cigars. With more than 30 open units and 50 upcoming openings, The Brass Tap is positioned to quadruple in size in the Southeast and beyond. In June 2012, Beef 'O' Brady's acquired the rights to franchise The Brass Tap. For more info, visit http://www.brasstapbeerbar.com. ### Career Key Discovery for Higher Education With Career Key's new tool, colleges can match students personality to the majors and programs they offer for greater student engagement and success. Career Keys career assessment, http://www.careerkey.org, offers a new student college major match tool called My Colleges Majors for college admissions, first year experience (FYE), student success, and academic advising programs. With it, colleges can match students personality to the majors and programs they offer for greater student engagement and success. Career Key Discovery for Higher Education, which contains the career assessment and this new tool, is short, easy to understand and use by students and college staff. No consulting, training or certification is required to begin using it right away. Career Keys author, counseling psychologist Dr. Lawrence K. Jones, NCC, designed it to be self-interpretive and easy to implement for educators, enabling them to quickly take advantage of its benefits for students. Large, national research studies show that students who choose a college major or training program that closely matches their strongest Holland personality type are more likely to: Get better grades, Stick with their major, and Graduate on time. In a competitive higher education market under pressure for better student outcomes, college admissions, first year experience (FYE) and student success programs can stand out by taking advantage of this research. They can provide greater value to students and their parents by helping them explore the college major options they offer to find the right match. Career Key Discovery for Higher Education contains three elements critical to engaging and retaining students for the long term: 1. A scientifically valid career interest inventory based on Hollands Theory of Career Choice; 2. A matching system for careers and majors based on over 30 years of experience and research in Hollands Theory, and 3. A My Colleges Majors feature that enables colleges to filter majors so only the programs they offer are displayed to students. Then, students have a clear match to the majors that college offers. About Career Key Trusted by counselors for over 20 years, Career Key empowers and champions self-expression in career and education decisions. Through career assessment and discovery, Career Key helps youth and adults navigate choices in careers, college majors, training programs and career pathways. Career Keys mission is career well-being for all. Credico UK urges more businesses to collaborate with charities such as Together for Short Lives as a way of delivering these rewards. In order to raise awareness and encourage more people to donate to the charity, Credico UK has announced how it was pleased to support the charity Together for Short Lives with a one off donation. About Credico UK: http://www.credico.uk.com/about/ Together for Short Lives is the leading UK charity that speaks out for all children and young people who are expected to have short lives. Together with everyone who provides care and support to these children and families they are here to help them have as fulfilling lives as possible and the very best care at the end of life. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars has generously donated a purple, Together for Short Lives branded, Rolls-Royce Ghost Series II for a year to the charity to raise awareness and vital funds to help seriously ill children and their families get the care and support they need. The striking car is available to hire and the charity is offering people the chance to win a luxury chauffeur-driven weekend through its Grand Rolls Raffle. More information can be found here: http://www.readytoroll.org.uk. In aid of the charitys fundraising initiative, called the Ready to Roll campaign, Credico UK hired the Purple Rolls-Royce from Together for Short Lives to reward one of the firms top performing business associates. Not only was this a fantastic way to recognise the hardwork and success of someone in the industry, but the money spent on hiring the car went to the charity. This meant that Credico UK was able to offer a reward for business performance in a way that also financially supported a worthy cause. With many corporate businesses offering their workers incentives, Credico UK urges more businesses to collaborate with charities such as Together for Short Lives as a way of delivering these rewards. Credico UK also uses this an opportunity to illustrate the various ways businesses can help support charities. When people think of donating to charity, people just think of giving money directly. However, charities offer some fantastic ways of supporting them, and businesses should definitely look into the various opportunities they have available to help donate to the cause. Credico UK is the UKs largest field marketing organisation that provides some of the nations top brands with flexible, scalable and highly cost-effective sales solutions. The firm specialise in customer acquisition that can be tailored to fit the requirements of each individual client. It is their personalised services that have made them one of the most sought after outsourcing solutions both nationally and internationally. For more information about Together for Short Lives visit its website http://www.togetherforshortlives.org.uk/ Notes to editors Together for Short Lives Hearing the news that your child has a life-shortening condition and is likely to die young is completely devastating. For tens of thousands of families in the UK this is the reality. These children have very complex and unpredictable conditions and often need round the clock care, seven days a week. Together for Short Lives is the leading UK charity that speaks out for all children and young people who are expected to have short lives. We are here to help children and their families to access specialist childrens palliative care services when and where they need it. We provide information so families know where to go for support and have the help they need to make the right choices about their childs care. Together for Short Lives supports all the professionals, childrens palliative care services and childrens hospices that deliver lifeline care to children and families across the UK. Together with everyone who provides care and support to these children and families, we are here to help them have as fulfilling lives as possible and the very best care at the end of life. We cant change the diagnosis, but we can help children and families make the most of their time together. Website: http://www.togetherforshortlives.org.uk Twitter: @Tog4ShortLives Facebook: /togetherforshortlives TAKEDOWNCON: UCONN 2016! TakeDownCon is a highly technical forum that focuses on the latest vulnerabilities, the most potent exploits, and the current security threats. The best and the brightest in t The partnership includes the use of the UConn Stamford campus to deliver ... two days of presentations from renowned security experts, networking and information sharing with some of the top industry leaders, and a CISO Summit for high-level executives. EC-Council Foundation, the non-profit sister organization of the creators of Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH), EC-Council, announce the University of Connecticut School of Business through their Connecticut Information Technology Institute as the presenting partner for the first hacking and offensive cyber security conference in the constitution state, Connecticut. The partnership includes the use of the UConn Stamford campus to deliver a comprehensive analysis of cyber security through two days of presentations from renowned security experts, networking and information sharing with some of the top industry leaders, and a CISO Summit for high-level executives. This event will connect more than 250 IT professionals interested in hearing about the latest threats in cyber security, gain a better understanding of the minds and motives of hackers, and learn how to effectively defend against cyber attacks. At UConns Connecticut Information Technology Institute in Stamford, we have a commitment to prepare our corporate and institutional communities for success in todays evolving IT environment, says John Elliott, dean of UConns School of Business. We strive to bring the best education, professional development and solutions to our information technology community. The partnership will unite the two brands with thought leaders and decision makers from the public, private, defense, law enforcement, and intelligence sectors who want to learn about and discuss some of the key security challenges which face our digitally connected nation. We are incredibly excited to welcome UConns Connecticut Information Technology Institute as the presenting partner for TakeDownCon, said Eric Lopez, Senior Director of EC-Council. TakeDownCon is more than an event its a necessity based on current and constant threats of our technologically dependent society. Together we will educate and inspire a new community of cyber security professionals. Live, instructor-led training in the industry-leading EC-Council suite of certifications, including their flagship Certified Ethical Hacker, Certified Hacking Forensics Instructor, Computer Security Analyst, and Licensed Penetration Tester, and Certified Chief Information Security Officer will also be available prior to the conference. CISOs and other Information Security Executives are encouraged to participate in the CISO Summit that is running concurrently with TakeDownCon on June 13. These closed-door meetings give C level executives the opportunity to discuss current IS challenges, best practices, and network with their peers. To learn more about TakeDownCon UCONN and register for the event visit: http://www.takedowncon.com/2016/UCONN. About TakeDownCon: TakeDownCon is a highly technical forum that focuses on the latest vulnerabilities, the most potent exploits, and the current security threats. World-class industry insiders come to share their knowledge, giving delegates the opportunity to learn about the industrys most important issues. With two days and two dynamic tracks, delegates will spend Day 1 on the Attack, learning how even the most protected systems can be breached. Day 2 is dedicated to Defense, and delegates will learn if their defense mechanisms are on par to thwart nefarious and persistent attacks. TakeDownCon provides the most sought after technical training and certification classes offered through Hacker Halted Academy by top training companies and led by well-respected instructors About UConn School of Business: Founded in 1881, the University of Connecticut (UConn) is the states flagship institution of higher education and is one of the top 20 public universities in the nation. One of 14 schools and colleges, the UConn School of Business was established in 1941 and has evolved into an internationally recognized leader in management education and research. The School of Business operates in four campusesStorrs, Hartford, Stamford and Waterburyoffering academic programs at the bachelors, masters, doctorate and advanced certificate levels, as well as customized education and outreach services to the corporate community. Supporting the business schools mission, the Connecticut Information Technology Institute (CITI) provides a variety of IT training solutions, education and professional development, specializing in the areas of project management, information technology, office productivity, and visual arts. UConns business school is ranked among the nations Top 25 public institutions by CEO Magazine, Financial Times, Military Times, and U.S. News & World Report, and has been fully accredited internationally by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) since 1958. For more information about EC-Council, please visit http://www.eccouncil.org Local shop and restaurant owners prepare early for heavy crowds and possible accidents like broken glass. Weve updated our webpage to remind businesses that Express Glass will be offering emergency 24/7 storefront glass repair during Spring Break 2016 February 29 2016. Fort Lauderdale, FL. Express Glass and Board Up, a top-rated storefront glass repair service in Fort Lauderdale, is proud to announce timely content update just in time for Spring Break, 2016. As business owners prepare for Spring Break in Fort Lauderdale and all of South Florida, Express Glass has made important updates to its web page on storefront and business glass repairs to remind shop and restaurant owners that emergency storefront glass repair will be available in March. Fort Lauderdale and Miami are Floridas epicenter cities for Spring Break, commented Yaniet Santos, General Manager of Express Glass. Local shop and restaurant owners prepare early for heavy crowds and possible accidents like broken glass. Weve updated our webpage to remind businesses that Express Glass will be offering emergency 24/7 storefront glass repair during Spring Break 2016. To view the page about storefront glass repair go to; http://www.expressglassfl.com/storefront-glass-repair/. Information about Express Glass 24 hour emergency glass repair and support for Fort Lauderdale and Miami shops and restaurants is available. Fort Lauderdale Businesses Receive a Lucky Break in Storefront Glass Repair for Spring Break 2016. Florida has been known as the top destination for Spring Break celebrations. Fort Lauderdale and Miami, Floridas largest cities welcome the largest group of Spring Breakers every year. To prepare for the wave of visitors, business owners may plan to prepare for accidents that can come with big and often unruly crowds. Emergency storefront glass repair is an important item on the Spring Break preparedness checklist of any business. Ft. Lauderdale shop owners must be prepared to fix broken storefront glass and windows before it becomes a hazard to customers. Express Glass has released a timely web page update about emergency storefront glass repair in the Fort Lauderdale area. The company offers 24/7 broken storefront glass emergency service, with extended service during March. Daily business operations during Spring Break should not be affected by shattered storefront glass. Emergency storefront glass repair is available to all Ft. Lauderdale shops, restaurants and boutiques during the busy Spring Break week. With broken storefront glass repaired quickly, Florida businesses and customers can enjoy the Spring Break celebration. About Express Glass and Board Up Express Glass and Board Up Service Inc. is a family owned and operated glass repair business with more than 20 years of experience. Technicians and the large variety of inventory make Express Glass the top glass repair service. If customers are looking for Fort Lauderdale storefront glass repair or emergency storefront glass repair in Delray Beach or Ft. Lauderdale, reach out to the company for a free estimate. 24/7 emergency storefront glass repair and replacement services are also available. If customers need a 24/7 Sliding Glass Door repair service in Fort Lauderdale, Miami, or West Palm Beach, technicians are standing by. The company specializes in sliding glass door repair and window glass repair; technicians will handle any glass replacement situation efficiently. Home or business glass repair is the company's main priority. Express Glass Repair and Board up http://www.expressglassfl.com/ The development of CHBase was a natural step for us as we advance our commitment to patient-centered health solutions. As part of its ongoing efforts to improve healthcare in Canada by getting patients informed, engaged and empowered, Get Real Health will offer CHBase to healthcare providers in Canada via TELUS Health, Canadas largest health IT company. Patient health data is more plentiful than ever, gathered by clinical systems like EHRs and HIEs and even patients personal fitness and home health devices. But how can patients see all their health data and securely share it with multiple physicians? And how can multiple providers access patients medical and health history and activities so any physician that patient sees can draw correlations, spot trends, and make more informed decisions to improve outcomes? Get Real Health answered these challenges by developing CHBase, a revolutionary data aggregation and development platform that combines clinical data and personal health data to create a comprehensive view of a patients health. The platform allows patients to contribute data from their favorite apps and home health devices while retrieving clinical data from all their providers. And providers can pull all this data into patient-oriented health applications or population health management and customer analytics systems. The development of CHBase was a natural step for us as we advance our commitment to patient-centered health solutions, said Get Real Health President and Founding Partner Robin Wiener. We are thrilled TELUS Health will be making CHBase available to Canadas healthcare providers. TELUS commitment to improve Canadas healthcare system by increasing doctor and patient access to health data is unwavering, said Dave Wattling, vice-president, Enterprise Solutions, TELUS Health. CHBase not only provides a more seamless integration for our customers, offering interoperability benefits and robust analytics to more efficiently care for a broader cohort of patients, but also aligns with our corporate commitment. The ability to offer this new technology enables us to improve health outcomes and decision making on a national level. CHBase is the perfect companion to Get Real Healths InstantPHR patient engagement platform, for which TELUS Health has been the exclusive reseller in Canada since 2012. InstantPHR, an award-winning, flexible tool that allows patients and providers to share data, securely communicate and collaboratively approach healthcare, is empowering patients in current deployments nation-wide. The addition of CHBase to TELUS Healths portfolio will empower patients to bring their data together in one place regardless of source. The country of Sweden recently chose CHBase as the platform for its enhanced solution currently in development where it will enable Swedish technology companies to develop innovative personal health applications powered by data made available to Swedish citizens by the Swedish eHealth Agency, eHalsomyndigheten. About Get Real Health Rockville, Maryland-based Get Real Health empowers patients and providers through a collaborative approach to healthcare. Our products unite the disconnected worlds of digital personal health and traditional medical records--regardless of source-- to create a comprehensive patient health profile. This innovative methodology helps large provider organizations, nonprofits and governments around the world meet a wide range of patient engagement needs. Get Real Health supports clients in the area of outcomes improvement, chronic disease management, population health management, patient activation, remote patient monitoring, Meaningful Use, and customer intelligence. Visit: http://www.getrealhealth.com. Gym Linen Service The number one New Years resolution is to get in better shape. Stamford Uniform and Linen, a top-rated uniform and linen service operating in Connecticut and New York, has issued an new educational blog post about linen service for gyms and health clubs. The company supports gym towel pickup and delivery during the busy early Spring months when gym membership increases. The number one New Years resolution is to get in better shape and this continues into the Spring season, explained Paul McDonald, CEO of Stamford Uniform and Linen. That means Connecticut and New York gyms are extra busy with new customers. It also means they get an increase of dirty gym towels which need to be turned over quickly. However, they may now know that they can 'outsource' this problem to a linen service. Thats why we have posted a blog article about linen services for gyms. We talk about delivery of fresh towels to health clubs and gyms in the Connecticut and New York area. To read the post on gym and health club laundry service issues, please visit http://www.stamfordlinen.com/2015/12/gym-in-greenwich-can-be-hard-work-let-us-handle-your-uniform-rentals/. To learn more about Stamford Uniform and Linen, including services for gyms and health clubs, please visit http://www.stamfordlinen.com/. Those with questions are urged to use the website to send a message. Connecticut and New York Linen Service for Gyms and Health Clubs New York and Connecticut health clubs can experience a boost in membership during the month of January, as people seek to lose those extra holiday pounds. The increase in membership can increase the amount of dirty gym towels to be cleaned. Many health clubs or gyms may be doing this by themselves, unaware that a linen service can handle this business problem. Unlike the restaurant industry, where outsourcing of laundry is a common practice, it is less common in the gym and health club industry. The company's new blog post about the special requirements for gym towels and laundry delivery in New York and Connecticut can be a first step towards a more efficient business process. Health clubs do not have diverse linen needs, but the quantity of dirty gym towels is a challenge that must be handled quickly. Stamford Linen reminds New York and Connecticut gym and health club owners that they can have support with the heavy lifting with reliable linen service in Connecticut and New York through outsourcing. About Stamford Uniform and Linen Stamford Uniform and Linen is a top-rated linen and uniform delivery service. Stamford Uniform and Linen offers pickup and delivery service for Connecticut and the greater New York City area. Stamford is a high quality provider of Connecticut linen service for gyms. Stamford Uniform offers affordable and quick delivery of gym towels and spa uniforms for the Connecticut and New York City area. The company services small and large health clubs, resorts, spas and gyms for linens, towels and staff uniforms. To contact the best uniform and linen supply service, go to the website. Web. http://www.stamfordlinen.com/ Los Angeles Immigration Lawyers, Work Injury Lawyers Throughout the year Attorney Nikki Jacobson offers a wide range of immigration and workers compensation lectures and training sessions for organizations, employers, employees, unions, attorneys, insurance adjusters, community programs and many more... Award winning Los Angeles Immigration & Workers Compensation Attorney Nikki Jacobson has been invited to speak at several upcoming 2016 Workers' Compensation and Immigration events. Throughout the year Attorney Nikki Jacobson offers a wide range of immigration and workers compensation lectures and training sessions for organizations, employers, employees, unions, attorneys, insurance adjusters, community programs and many more. As of today, Attorney Nikki Jacobson is scheduled to speak at the following events and training sessions during the first half of 2016: *Sponsored by the Los Angeles Paralegal Association (LAPA), Attorney Nikki Jacobson will be speaking at the Workers Compensation Continuing Legal Education (CA MCLE) program: Workers Compensation Law from Both the Applicant and Defense Perspectives on March 8, 2016. This seminar brings both the applicant and defense perspectives on workers compensation law in California for all legal professionals. In any employer-employee relationship, a work injury can adversely affect not only the employee and his or her family, but the employers business and insurance premiums. A greater understanding of the injured workers' rights and the employers defenses will assist everyone involved in the legal system. Topics include: how to file a claim, disability, temporary disability, permanent disability, WCAB court proceedings, and strategies for the injured worker, employers, insurers, and work injury attorneys. *Sponsored by West Los Angeles College (WLAC), Attorney Nikki Jacobson will be speaking at the 21st Century Career Conference on April 20, 2016. Ms. Jacobson will be speaking on the Legal Careers panel. For over 15 years, Attorney Jacobson has been teaching law at WLAC. Attorney Nikki Jacobson will be answering questions from audience members as well as offering tips from her professional legal experience and past consultations. *Sponsored by the California Workers Compensation Defense Attorney Association (CWCDAA), Attorney Nikki Jacobson will be speaking at the 2016 CWCDAA Summer Conference. Attorney Nikki Jacobson will be speaking on Friday, May 20, 2016 at 1:00-2:00 PM on the following panel: The AME/PQME Process. This MCLE session will include the following topics: How to Prepare for Each Evaluation to Obtain the Best Possible Results for Your Client. A Discussion of Strategies and Procedural Rules Regulating the Medical-Legal Process, from both the Defense and Applicant Perspective. *Sponsored by the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA), Attorney Nikki Jacobson will be speaking at 2016 AILA Annual Conference. AILAs Annual Conference on Immigration Law is the largest annual gathering in immigration law. This years conference will be held June 22 through 25, 2016 in Las Vegas at The Cosmopolitan. Ms. Jacobson will be speaking on a panel with other experienced immigration lawyers on Friday, June 24, 2016 at 9:40 am. The panelist will be discussing Removal Proceedings Remedies. This important topic will cover immigration court (EOIR) application that respondents may file before an immigration judge to stop deportation / removal. These issues need to be addressed from the initial immigration consultation. This panel provides a general overview of the requirements for remedies in immigration court for permanent residents and non-permanent residents. INA 240A(a), Readjustment (Adjustment of Status), Waivers, INA 240A(b)(1), INA 240A(b)(2) Adjustment, Accepting Deportation, Requesting Pre and Post- Conclusion Voluntary Departure, and Much More About Nikki Jacobson, Los Angeles Immigration & Work Injury Lawyer - The Jacobson Law Firm, APC Nikki Jacobson handles and consults on all kinds of work-related injury cases, from catastrophic loss of limb to psychological-stress injuries. In addition, for over 18 years she has assisted immigrants from all over the world with all aspects of immigration matter. She was recognized by Los Angeles Magazine as one of its Super Lawyers in 2015 and 2016 and a Rising Star in 2009, 2010, 2011 and 2012. For the sixth year in a row, she has been recognized by Avvo.com, a national lawyer-rating service, and given their highest legal rating based on her experience, industry recognition, and professional conduct. If you are interested in scheduling a workers compensation consultation or immigration consultation with Attorney Nikki Jacobson, please contact us by phone or e-mail. For more information, please call (888) 207-9600. The Jacobson Law Firm, APC is located at 510 West 6th Street, Suite 330, Los Angeles, CA 90014. CA Lic. # 192006 International Travel Security & Executive Safety Employee monitoring can have a bad sound to it, given the more common use in the United States as a way to keep employees from doing bad things such as stealing supplies. IMG GlobalSecur (http://www.theimg.com/), a leading international security consulting firm, is proud to announce an important post to its customer-facing blog on the issue of overseas employee monitoring. The GlobalSecur blog is meant to explain employee security issues and monitoring opportunities in a straightforward manner, suitable for busy human resources managers or senior executives who manage an employee workforce abroad. "Employee monitoring can have a bad sound to it, given the more common use in the United States as a way to keep employees from doing bad things such as stealing supplies," explained Chris Hagon, CEO of IMG GlobalSecur. "Our use of the term 'employee monitoring' has a completely different, international context: that of being able to have the employee check in with the home base, get assistance, and perform other functions (or receive other services) in a completely transparent and helpful way. Our post explains these in more detail." To read the informational blog post on overseas employee monitoring, please visit http://www.globalsecur.com/blog/2016/01/overseas-employee-monitoring/. Persons interested in exploring overseas employee monitoring issues are urged to use the website to reach out for a security consultant, as every situation is unique. Employee Overseas Monitoring: Win / Win Whereas employee monitoring in the United States context can have a negative connotation, usually meaning that the employer is snooping on the employees in order to prevent issues such as theft on the job, employee monitoring and an overseas situation, is usually a win/win situation. An example is when an employee overseas confronts a medical emergency. Both that employee and her employer are motivated to take the appropriate action, and make intelligent decisions in a situation that may not be the same as if this event happened in Dallas, Texas, or Chicago, Illinois. Another example is when an employee or a group of employees confronts an emergency overseas. The recent tragic earthquake in Kathmandu, Nepal, is an example of this type of crisis. Our employee monitoring service can both alert employees of situations as they unfold, as well as inform folks back home, including relatives, of the situation. A final example concerns political unrest. The system is able to alert employees of impending political turmoil, and in many situations the employees can take the appropriate action in a more timely fashion. About the Incident Management Group (IMG) Incident Management Group is a leading international security consulting firm. Corporate or business organizations concerned about their need for robust travel security solutions can reach out to the IMG Group for assistance. The companys experts provide services such as executive, employee, VIP, and expatriate travel security, workplace safety, duty of care management, risk and threat assessments, workplace violence prevention, crisis management planning, and more. Web. http://www.theimg.com Tel. (877) 887-9914 Our law firm has always prioritized education and outreach. Burdette & Rice of Dallas, Texas, a law firm specializing in litigation over trusts, probate, and estates at http://www.dallasprobateattorneys.com/, is proud to announce an important new blog post on the topic of Fiduciary litigation. The firm has made a commitment to using its blog as a public outreach mechanism to better educate Texas residents on important issues concerning probate, trusts, and estate issues. "Our law firm has always prioritized education and outreach," explained Elliott Burdette, Managing Director of Probate Litigation at Burdette and Rice. He continued, This new post covers an important issue, that of damages in fiduciary litigation, and makes for interesting reading for any lay person who has an interest or might be facing a dispute. To read the blog post, please visit http://www.dallasprobateattorneys.com/fiduciary-disputes-texas/. There, in addition to information on fiduciary disputes under Texas law, interested parties are advised to click 'up' to the company's blog by clicking on the 'blog' tab in the navigation for more articles on Texas estate, probate, and/or trust issues. Fiduciary Litigation in Texas: Synopsis of Information The following is a summary of the article. The article, first, explains the responsibilities of a fiduciary in layman's terms. Second, it reminds readers that a fiduciary is charged with acting under the highest standards of Texas law to act in the interest of the beneficiary or beneficiaries. Next, it goes over what might happen when a the behavior of a fiduciary is questioned, up to and including legal proceedings or even litigation. Finally, it overviews the concepts of "good faith," "bad faith," and "negligence." The reader is reminded that the post is meant for lay persons and as such, any reader is admonished to consult with a lawyer or law firm specializing in fiduciary issues with respect to trusts, estates, and/or probate as every situation is unique. About Burdette & Rice, PLLC Burdette & Rice, PLLC is a probate, estate, and guardianship dispute law firm, with lawyers dedicated to listening to their clients, being fully present to them, and advocating their clients positions in the simplest and most persuasive way possible. The law firm employs well-respected probate and estate lawyers in Dallas, Texas. Clients come to Burdette & Rice to contest a will in Texas, work on complex inheritance litigation and disputes, and even to litigate disputes over powers of attorney, guardianship and trustee issues all based on Texas law. Burdette & Rice, PLLC Media Relations http://www.dallasprobateattorneys.com/ 972-991-7700 If you are new to iQ you can schedule a demo and learn more about this opportunity. PSFK iQ - Where Innovators Turn for Research. Our professional-grade research platform is designed specifically for Retail and CX leaders who want to know whats next. Whether youre staying current on trends or need a real-time research partner to help you get ahead, count on PSFK iQ to deliver the info you need to make your next move. Cookies What are cookies ? How do we use cookies? How to control cookies? Managing cookies in your browser see what cookies you have got and delete them on an individual basis block third party cookies block cookies from particular sites block all cookies from being set delete all cookies when you close your browser X A cookie is a small text file that a website saves on your computer or mobile device when you visit the site. 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The add-on communicates with the Google Analytics JavaScript (ga.js) to indicate that information about the website visit should not be sent to Google Analytics.Cookies are also used to record if you have agreed (or not) to our use of cookies on this site, so that you are not asked the question every time you visit the site.You can control and/or delete cookies as you wish. You can delete all cookies that are already on your computer and you can set most browsers to prevent them from being placed.Most browsers allow you to:If you chose to delete cookies, you should be aware that any preferences will be lost. Also, if you block cookies completely many websites (including ours) will not work properly and webcasts will not work at all. For these reasons, we do not recommend turning cookies off when using our webcasting services. After working as an architect and in the fashion industry, Andres Quintero has found his calling: writing and illustrating picture books. His first title, Hairy Harold & His Extraordinary Trip to New York, was self-published last year and praised as an impressive debut by Publishers Weekly. Like many self-published books, Hairy Harold was crowdfunded. After Quintero wrote and sketched a draft, a friend suggested Kickstarter. But Quintero admits that if he had known how difficult crowdfunding was, he wouldn't have done it. Thank goodness I didnt know that at the time, he says. Before self-publishing his book, Quintero read Children's Picturebooks: The Art of Visual Storytelling by Martin Salisbury which includes chapters about self-publishing and he suggests aspiring authors spend time reading books in their genre. We asked Quintero for his tips for other indie authors: Get Feedback from Your Audience Share, share, and share your story with as many people as you can and make sure to get their honest (and painful) feedback. My church in NYC was full with friends with children, so it was easier to get a sense of my target -- plus I have two boys that judged me at every turn. First, Spread the Word. Then Start Crowdfunding Before doing crowdfunding, make sure lots of people are familiar with your project and use all the tools at hand. [Only] do crowdfunding if you have a least 600 faithful, very generous Facebook friends. And forget about doing another project in the next few years if you want to keep those friendships. Perseverance Theres so much you don't know. You think a picture book is just 32 pages, but youre wrong. Its a whole universe. It could very well take you years to print your first book, and that requires perseverance. Also, its a cliche, but don't be afraid to fail. I have failed in so many ways printing these 32 pages: people will tell you your plot doesn't make any sense, your drawings are weird, nobody is reading physical books now.... I re-wrote my story more than 40 times -- people are still telling me the story needs improvement. So don't be afraid of failing. You are never going to get things right the first time, but for the second book things may become easier. (Spoiler: I'm lying.) WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. - Higher food prices, a significant boost in greenhouse gas emissions due to land use change and major loss of forest and pasture land would be some results if genetically modified organisms in the United States were banned, according to a Purdue University study. Wally Tyner, James and Lois Ackerman Professor of Agricultural Economics; Farzad Taheripour, a research associate professor of agricultural economics; and Harry Mahaffey, an agricultural economics graduate student, wanted to know the significance of crop yield loss if genetically modified crops were banned from U.S. farm fields, as well as how that decision would trickle down to other parts of the economy. They presented their findings at the International Consortium on Applied Bioeconomy Research in Ravello, Italy, last year. The findings of the study, funded by the California Grain & Feed Association, will be published in the journal AgBioForum this spring. "This is not an argument to keep or lose GMOs," Tyner said. "It's just a simple question: What happens if they go away?" The economists gathered data and found that 18 million farmers in 28 countries planted about 181 million hectares of GMO crops in 2014, with about 40 percent of that in the United States. They fed that data into the Purdue-developed GTAPBIO model, which has been used to examine economic consequences of changes to agricultural, energy, trade and environmental policies. Eliminating all GMOs in the United States, the model shows corn yield declines of 11.2 percent on average. Soybeans lose 5.2 percent of their yields and cotton 18.6 percent. To make up for that loss, about 102,000 hectares of U.S. forest and pasture would have to be converted to cropland and 1.1 million hectares globally for the average case. Greenhouse gas emissions increase significantly because with lower crop yields, more land is needed for agricultural production, and it must be converted from pasture and forest. "In general, the landuse change, the pasture and forest you need to convert to cropland to produce the amount of food that you need is greater than all of the landuse change that we have previously estimated for the U.S. ethanol program," Tyner said. In other words, the increase in greenhouse gas emissions that would come from banning GMOs in the United States would be greater than the amount needed to create enough land to meet federal mandates of about 15 billion gallons of biofuels. "Some of the same groups that oppose GMOs want to reduce greenhouse gas emissions to reduce the potential for global warming," Tyner said. "The result we get is that you can't have it both ways. If you want to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in agriculture, an important tool to do that is with GMO traits." With lower crop yields without GMO traits, commodity prices rise. Corn prices would increase as much as 28 percent and soybeans as much as 22 percent, according to the study. Consumers could expect food prices to rise 1-2 percent, or $14 billion to $24 billion per year. In the United States, GMOs make up almost all the corn (89 percent), soybeans (94 percent) and cotton (91 percent) planted each year. Some countries have already banned GMOs, have not adopted them as widely or are considering bans. Tyner and Taheripour said they will continue their research to understand how expansion of and reductions of GMO crops worldwide could affect economies and the environment. "If in the future we ban GMOs at the global scale, we lose lots of potential yield," Taheripour said. "If more countries adopt GMOs, their yields will be much higher." Writer: Brian Wallheimer, 765-532-0233, brian.wallheimer@gmail.com Sources: Wally Tyner, 765-494-0199, wtyner@purdue.edu Farzad Taheripour, 765-494-4612, tfarzad@purdue.edu ABSTRACT Evaluation of Economic, Land Use, and Land Use Emission Impacts of Substituting Non-GMO Crops for GMO in the US Farzad Taheripour, Harry Mahaffey, and Wallace E. Tyner Farzad Taheripour is Research Associate Professor, Harry Mahaffey is a MS student, and Wallace E. Tyner is James and Lois Ackerman Professor in the Department of Agricultural Economics at Purdue University The main objective of this study was to evaluate what would be the economic and environmental consequences of losing the GMO traits in the U.S. for the major crops of corn, soybeans and cotton. The first step was to obtain from the literature a range of estimates of the yield losses if we move away from GMO traits in the U.S. The second step was to introduce the yield losses obtained in the first step into a well known CGE model, GTAP-BIO, to quantify the land use and economic impacts of banning GMO traits in the U.S. Our analysis confirms that if we do not have access to the GMO technology, a significant amount of land would need to be converted from other crops, cropland pasture, pasture and forest to meet the global food demand. The land expansion likely is similar to the entire U.S. ethanol program. Furthermore, induced land use emissions were significantly larger that the corresponding figure for corn ethanol. The price changes for corn were as high as 28% and for soybeans as high as 22%. In general, the price increases for the reference and average cases were higher than those observed previously for biofuel shocks. Food price changes in the U.S. amount to $14-$24 billion per year. As expected, welfare falls both in the U.S. and globally. Agricultural Communications: (765) 494-2722; Keith Robinson, robins89@purdue.edu Agriculture News Page Anjanette Albert told the Chicago Sun-Times she was watching television recently and was shocked when she saw her tear-stained face flash across the screen. Albert is the mother of Derrion Albert, a 16-year-old honors student killed in a melee outside Fenger High School in 2009. Five teens were charged and convicted in the murder. The commercial shows Alvarez running through a neighborhood with intermittent images of her with families of victims of violence. When contacted, the Alvarez campaign admitted Albert had not been contacted, and said the ad would be pulled immediately. Alvarez is seeking a third term as state's attorney. In the first elections held since last year's nuclear deal, none of Iran's three main political camps reformists, conservatives and hard-liners is expected to win an outright majority, but early results indicate the best reformist showing in the 290-seat parliament in more than a decade. Moderate conservatives also gained seats, and if their tentative coalition with the reformists holds, they could end the domination of parliament by hard-liners opposed to the nuclear deal. The reformist gains reflect strong public support for the agreement's promise of more economic opportunities now that the West has dropped crippling sanctions in exchange for limiting the nation's nuclear program. State television said Friday's vote heralds "the end of the presence of a powerful majority in the parliament that overshadowed decision-making apparatus in the country over the past decade." Rouhani thanked voters Saturday night in a message that encouraged Iranians to help him end the nation's isolation. "The competition has ended. Now it is time to open a new way through unity between people and the government to have a new chapter in growth of the national economy by using domestic strength and foreign opportunities," he said. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has final say on all state matters, called the vote "proof of democracy" at work in Iran. But Khamenei also addressed hard-line concerns that greater integration with the West could undermine Iranian independence and morality. He urged the next parliament, which begins its work in May, to remain vigilant against "foreign intervention" and warned that democratic progress does not mean "integration into the global arrogance." The Interior Ministry is expected to release final results on Monday. Provincial reports suggest that of the first 185 districts reporting, 55 have gone to reformists, 66 to moderate conservatives and 64 to hard-liners. Reformists hold fewer than 20 seats in the outgoing parliament and have been virtually shut out of politics since losing their parliamentary majority in the 2004 elections. Nearly 55 million of Iran's 80 million people were eligible to vote, and more than 60 percent turned out, based on partial results. Iranians also elected a new Assembly of Experts, 88 senior clerics whose most important role is to select a new supreme leader from among its members. The assembly is elected every eight years and could be asked to choose a successor to Khamenei, 76, who had prostate surgery in 2014. Mehrnaz Hemmati, a 21-year-old tailor shop worker, said she voted for the coalition of reformists and moderates and won't celebrate until the final results are announced. "I expect more attention to be paid to job opportunities for women," Hemmati said. "Rouhani, with help from the new parliament, should open doors to the world to bring in foreign investments." Mohammad Reza Shahabi, an accountant in a construction company, hopes that with hard-liners losing some influence, "the government will have a more free hand in implementing deals with the world from now on. The elections should add to Rouhani's power, since new lawmakers will not create barriers like before," he said. But Aida Ghorbani, an employee at an advertising and public relations firm, doubts the ability of the larger reformist bloc to have much impact. "Based on experience, they cannot take big steps because of the greater influence of hard-liners in the government, however I feel happy," she said. KEWANEE Ten Republican candidates on the March 15 ballot met with about 100 voters Sunday in Kewanee. Henry County GOP chair Jan Weber said that the party was lucky to have so many local candidates and noted the states unusual role. For the first time in a long time, Illinois will actually matter in the presidential race, she said. Running for the chance to challenge Rep. Cheri Bustos in November in the 17th District are Patrick Harlan and Jack Boccarossa. Mr. Boccarossa, of Milan, is a retired Rock Island Arsenal employee and tree farmer. Mr. Harlan is head of the Knox County Tea party. A driver for Caseys General Stores, Mr. Harlan noted hes held a variety of working mans jobs including heavy equipment operator and butcher. He said his top priority would be to defund Planned Parenthood. Mr. Boccarossa identified the Rock Island Arsenal as his priority. For the last 25 of his 42 years there, he worked in the Small Business Administration liaison office reviewing procurements. Its near and dear to my heart, he said. He also proposed an ethanol plant, refinery or nuclear plant at the former Savannah Army Depot. Mr. Harlan identified the three biggest problems as lack of jobs, taxes and government overreach, and said he wanted to eliminate the Internal Revenue Service and give tax credits to corporations to keep jobs here. Mr. Boccarossa said he views the top three problems as lack of jobs, regulations hurting small business and taxes. In Illinois House contests, Wayne Saline, Daniel Swanson and Mike DeSutter are squaring off for the 74th District seat up for grabs by the retirement of Rep. Don Moffitt, of Gilson. All three men are farmers in this agricultural district. Mr. Saline, of Rio, is Knox County GOP chairman, Knox County Board finance chairman and owner of Saline Farms. Mr. Swanson, of Alpha, is a retired Army lieutenant colonel, farmer and head of the Henry County Veterans Assistance Commission. Mr. DeSutter, of Woodhull, farms and has served on school boards for AlWood, Galesburg and the Costa Catholic Academy. Like many of you, Im frustrated with the way Illinois is being run but we cant pick up our business and move, said Mr. DeSutter. We need to have the tax pie bigger, not tax rates higher. All three alluded to the budget impasse as the states biggest issue. Mr. Saline said Democrats have to learn they created the problem. The problem is theres no communication between the parties. Thats got to change. Mr. Swanson recalled learning about the Mercer County Senior Center where the director thought she might hire an assistant, but recently told him she cant do that and, in fact, might be looking at closing. Its a team effort to break the supermajority, he said. We need 20 additional Republicans to take down (Illinois House Leader Michael) Madigan. Mr. DeSutter said the state is spending $50 million per year on interest on back payments, and $1 of every $4 is going to pensions. The budget and pension plan are the top two priorities right now, he said. Moderator Marshall Jones asked all candidates Sunday how they would restore civility in light of the discord in national politics. Out of all the answers, Mr. Swanson drew the loudest applause of the day when he said that although some are viewing it as soap opera, its what the forefathers established. Other countries dont have these opportunities to get up on the stage, he said. There are soldiers who gave their lives so they could do that. The 74th Congressional District includes all of Mercer County, most of Henry and Knox counties and portions of Lee and Bureau counties. Brian Kerr and Matt Schutte are primary contenders for Henry County State's Attorney. Both men have experience with the office. Mr. Kerr was an assistant states attorney in Henry County for 12 years and Mr. Schutte for seven years. In early 2015, Mr. Schutte was chosen States Attorney by the county board to replace Terry Patton, who was elected circuit judge. Mr. Kerr said he would work to set up a special drug court with intensive probation with regular reporting and sanctions, as well as a veterans court that would treat causes of recidivism and give them the opportunity to keep their records clean. Mr. Schutte cited a number of endorsements from law enforcement organizations, then noted he already has elected to prosecute an officer in a Taser incident. It was a tough decision, but it was the right one and I stand by it, he said. Melissa Watkins and David Johnson are running for county coroner. The incumbent, Mr. Johnson has more than 20 years of experience. Ms. Watkins is a 20-plus year nurse who works in an emergency room. Also in attendance was Illinois House 71st District candidate Tony McCombie, of Savannah. A portion of Colona and Cleveland in Henry County are in the 71st. EAST MOLINE Words and faith are not enough to confront racism and injustice. They must be translated into positive action, according to speakers at the Rock Island NAACP Religious Affairs 8th annual Community Day Sunday. "We can't be citizens that just watch things happen; we have to be citizens that make things happen," the Rev. Cyrus J. Burns, the event's main speaker, said during the 75-minute service at Gaines Chapel AME Church. An Army veteran who works at the Rock Island Arsenal, he learned in the military to train for a mission and execute it precisely as planned. "We must work hand in hand, shoulder to shoulder. Blacks can't do it alone," Rev. Burns pastor of St. James AME Church in Monmouth said. "Whites can't do it alone. We must come together to get it done." Quoting from the Old Testament book of Nehemiah, he noted that the prophet led rebuilding of Jerusalem's crumbling walls. "Instead of complaining, and wallowing in self-pity, Nehemiah knew that God wanted him to motivate the troops to heal Jerusalem's walls," Rev. Burns said. "He would not be denied ... Nehemiah was a man of action." "It is imperative, as we strive to maintain unity in the community, that we take on the spirit of Nehemiah, and deal with the breaches in the walls of our community," he said, noting that the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was a modern-day Nehemiah, working for racial equality and "fair treatment of all of God's children," Rev. Burns said. Assassinated at age 39 in 1968, "all he wanted to do was to be treated fairly," and by leading the March on Washington on Aug. 28, 1963, "determined to do his part to repair the breach in the wall of liberty and justice in America," the pastor said. "Fifty-three years later, after many accomplishments and great strides forward, I believe there's still a breach in the wall," Rev. Burns said. Dr. King gave a "scathing indictment" of America's treatment of blacks. He called America to be true to what it said in the Declaration of Independence, that all men are created equal. While those efforts led to new federal voting and civil rights laws, "here we are, having to revisit some of the same things concerning voting rights and civil rights," Rev. Burns said. He cited the corrosive influence of the Supreme Court's Citizens United campaign finance decision and many voter suppression efforts around the country. "Some states are trying to make it harder for people to vote." In the wake of several instances of police officers killing unarmed black men, Rev. Burns admitted police have a very hard job, but there are some who are "racists and bigots that hide behind the badge." He implored African-Americans to stop killing one another, to stop the drug trade and to first respect themselves which applies to all people. "To repair, we must first repair the breach of dignity and respect," he said. Dr. King came to cash the check for America's defaulted promises "of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness," Rev. Burns said. That check had come back "marked insufficient funds," he said. "We refuse to believe the bank of justice is bankrupt." "It's our turn. Black community, what are we gonna do about it? White community, what are we gonna do about it?" he said. Because of civil rights and religious activism, African-Americans have seen better jobs, better housing, better education and election of the first black president. "So much has been done, but there's still so much left to do," Rev. Burns said. "The only way that day will come is if we work together, as brothers and sisters. When we come together, there's nothing we can't do," he said, noting everyone can learn from Dr. King's commitment to liberty and justice, "not only for blacks, but all of God's children. He said in that letter in the Birmingham jail, injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere." A passionate, motivational speaker, Rev. Burns railed against today's culture of passivity (video games, social media) and urged outrage and action, his voice rising with emotion, indignation and thundering moral force. "It's time to teach our children to respect themselves, get an education," he loudly implored. "There's nothing wrong with being intelligent and smart. There's nothing wrong with reading a book! "We're living in a crucial time. Our political landscape has gone awry," he said. Dr. King had a dream, but Rev. Burns said he has a concern that some people don't want freedom and justice for all. NAACP County Chapter President Berlinda Tyler-Jamison agreed challenges remain on Saturday, there was a Ku Klux Klan rally in southern California, where three people were stabbed and 13 others arrested. She said minority representation on the Rock Island County Board might be jeopardized if the board is reduced without due consideration of the risks posed. "We have fractures in our country, strains in our community," she said. "There is a need for unity in the community whether that community is the nation or that community is Rock Island County." Randy Flowers closed the service with a call to action: "Turn your passion into action ... Let's do something really radical let's practice our faith, every day of our lives." Earlier, East Moline Mayor John Thodos read a proclamation honoring the NAACP chapter and the Community Day. Ms. Tyler-Jamison also gave the NAACP Community Service Award to the Aldridge Early Learning Center. But since he won that night, instead of the burst of communal pride that usually accompanies such milestones, the response from American Jews has been muted. One reason: The Vermont senator, the candidate who has come closer than any other Jew to being a major party presidential nominee, has mostly avoided discussing his Judaism. Sanders won't identify the Israeli kibbutz where he briefly volunteered in the 1960s. When reporters found the kibbutz, Sha'ar Ha'amakim in northern Israel, he wouldn't comment. In New Hampshire, he described himself as "the son of a Polish immigrant," not a Jewish one. At a Democratic debate, he spoke of the historic nature of "somebody with my background" seeking the presidency, but didn't say "Jewish." A recent headline in the liberal Jewish Daily Forward newspaper read, "We Need To Out Bernie Sanders as a Jew For His Own Good." Rabbi James Glazier of Temple Sinai, in South Burlington, Vermont, said Sanders' comments were being discussed by fellow rabbis in the liberal Reform movement. "What did he leave out there? He didn't say 'Jewish Polish' immigrant. Reform rabbis have picked up on this big time." Sanders' lack of religious observance is not what rankles. Many Jews identify "culturally" instead of religiously with the faith. But unlike some other prominent non-observant Jews, Sanders, during more than three decades as a mayor, congressman and U.S. senator, has developed few relationships with Jewish groups or leaders on religious issues or on Israel. He has supported a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but has not made Israel in a priority. "I would say that he has never been one of those in Congress who was active in a Jewish caucus, who turned out for Israel, who was involved in those issues and he still isn't," said Jonathan Sarna, an expert in American Jewish history at Brandeis University. Ironically, when Sanders gave his most religiously focused campaign speech, he underscored his distance from Judaism. It was last fall at Liberty University, the evangelical school founded by the Rev. Jerry Falwell in Lynchburg, Virginia, and he addressed the school on Rosh Hashana, or the Jewish New Year, one of the most important holidays of the year. Discussing his beliefs in the speech, he said he was "motivated by a vision" for social justice "which exists in all of the great religions." Later, he attended a local Rosh Hashana gathering. The Sanders campaign did not respond to repeated requests for comment for this article. Sanders has said the Holocaust wiped out much of his father's family in Poland. As a child in Brooklyn, Sanders went to Hebrew school and had a bar mitzvah. "Being Jewish is very important to us," his brother, Larry, said in an interview. "There was no problem of debate, it was just a given in our lives, just as being Americans was a given in our lives. But Bernard is not particularly religious. He doesn't go to synagogue often. I think he probably goes to synagogue only for weddings and funerals, rather than to pray." In his secular-leaning home state, Sanders was rarely called on to discuss his faith. In 1988, he married his second wife, Jane, who was raised Roman Catholic. He has been facing increasing challenges about his support for Israel. At a 2014 Vermont event, after the war started between Israel and Palestinian Hamas, the Islamic militant group that controls Gaza, some voters demanded Sanders do more to protest Israeli bombing. The war killed more than 2,200 Palestinians in Gaza, including hundreds of civilians and 73 people on the Israeli side. Sanders said Israel "overreacted" with the intensity of its attacks, and he called the bombing of U.N. schools "terribly, terribly wrong." But he also criticized Hamas for launching rockets into Israel. Israel has said Hamas is responsible for civilian casualties, since it carried out numerous attacks from residential areas in Gaza. "I believe in a two-state solution, where Israel has the right to exist in security at the same time the Palestinians have a state of their own," Sanders said. Despite Sanders' reticence about discussing his Jewish roots, his religious identity is clear, Sarna said. "I think it is very much a statement about America that someone who everybody knows is of Jewish background and has a Jewish name and sounds Jewish from Brooklyn can get several delegates," Sarna said. "There is a sense that only in America could a Bernie Sanders be a candidate." ____ For full functionality of this site it is necessary to enable JavaScript. Here are the instructions how to enable JavaScript in your web browser One of the most important principles Ive learnt over the years is to surround yourself with smart people. John Parikhal is very smart. In Part 2 with Lessons from a Master with John Parikhal, we step through some cases studies beyond positioning. Greg and John talk about the creation of the MIX format andsome of the key ingredients that programmers should keep in mind for making great radio. Greg: Take us through some client case studies & the strategy used to build ratings success. What are some of your best outcomes? John: There are so many. We helped stations in Australia, Germany, Canada, and the U.S. to increase ratings by tightening playlists, keeping enough spice in the music so that it didnt get boring, writing great slogans, and creating a personality for each station and its market. For example, we made the MIX format famous starting in Houston with More music, more variety, a better mix. We helped Antenne Bayern in Germany come up with the winning name for their morning show, even though we didnt speak German, simply by collaborating and working together. In 1992, we helped VH1 reinvent by combining smart management strategy (led by my current partner in Breakthrough Management, Philippe Denichaud) with Imaginative programming such as Pop-Up Videos and Behind the Music. One of my favourite stories is recent. My brilliant advertising partner, Perry Goldberg, and I were asked to re-invent an Oldies franchise in Chicago, WLS-FM. Ratings were down, the station sounded stale and predictable. We freshened the music, getting rid of all the downer war songs from the Vietnam era because listeners said that those tunes brought back bad memories. Then, we remarketed, focusing on the benefit of Oldies music it makes you happy. Our slogan Stay Happy really worked. Ratings went up significantly. It was such a contrast to another huge success in Chicago ten years earlier when we helped create The Drive, a station that featured only three things older music (including the Vietnam era songs), very knowledgeable DJs, and brilliant on-air imaging, created by Nick Michaels. GS: What are some of the key ingredients that programmers should keep in mind for making great radio? JP: Number one. Its all about the listener. Never about you. So, listen to them. Understand them. Be empathetic and put yourself in their shoes. Try and figure out how to give them what they ask for, even if your formula says you cant. Number two. Its about focus. Do a map of your market. Who is competing with you? Where? Which part of the market is most lucrative or most available? Go after it. Number three. Listen to your station. At least once a month, turn off your phone and your email for a day, get out of the office, and listen to your station. And, to the competition. Dont do anything else! Including check e-mail. Take along a few different team members each time. Make notes. What worked, what was getting tired, and what did you brainstorm that could be exciting and, most important, engaging? Listen to your digital competition too. Number four. Buy and read Valerie Gellers Beyond Powerful Radio: A Communicators Guide to the Internet Age. Study it. Use her principles. Number five. Get some help with marketing (including slogans, on-air imaging, etc.). Most programmers arent good at this but think they are. Steve Jobs knew how important it was and he always hired the best, even though he himself was a marketing genius. GS: What are the most important ingredients that make up a successful breakfast show. JP: After thinking about it and looking at the greatest breakfast shows, heres what I think makes the best Number 1 is STORIES. The way they are told, the subject matter, the humour, and the characters. It permeates all the best shows. If you dont tell stories, people dont REMEMBER anything about the show which makes them less likely to tune in the next day. The best show reflects the listeners morning experiences through empathetic comments, relevant stories and music that helps generate energy. For different audiences, these mean different things. For example, when Howard Stern is empathetic, its with his male listeners about how they dont get enough sex, how they fantasize about their wild side, want to hear the very personal side of their favourite stars, etc. For Elvis Duran, its with his 18-44-year-old females. Its about gossip, giving friends advice (that they dont want), awkward social situations, etc. For a News show, its about up-to-date, very topical, slightly contexted stories to start the day. In all 3 cases, its the STORIES that make it great. The way the narrative is spun, developed, and paid off. The better its done, the more memorable. And music (as bumpers or as songs) is an essential part. A great show also reflects and relates to the listeners anticipation of the day ahead as well as their waking up experience. It incorporates features and stories that youll be able to talk about or remember later in the day to tell a friend or just chuckle to yourself. The best have fixed time features that encourage tune-in and recall. Traffic and Weather on the 8s. The morning prank phone call. The lost Beatle song. There are so many ways to do this. The host(s) will have proven ability to make listeners laugh and brighten their morning, and will engage the audience through stories. If the show plays a lot of music, the criteria are the same. The best shows usually have a Trio at the centre we used to call them a Dick, Dork, and Dear. One is the straight man he (or she) really controls the shows flow and can often be funny or witty. The Dork is the ordinary one. Hes the butt of the jokes but never really backs down, glad to be on the team and filling an important role as either Generator or Reactor. The Dear keeps everyone on an even keel, provides the female point of view (although some Dears are men in bigger teams), and provides great comic relief at the expense of the other two. A note about Generators and Reactors Valerie Geller brilliantly identified this point (its covered in the latest version of her book). One (or more) people are Generating. The others are Reacting to them. Its the dynamic that always works. If you dont have it, the show goes flat. In Part 3 with Lessons from a Master with John Parikhal, we discuss the Product Pyramid and is it still relevant today? Greg gets Johns perspective on the challenges and opportunities he sees for radio in this world of social media.And how can radio today be more relevant to its listeners? Rumours around that Hamish & Andy are about to sign a massive deal with the Seven Network. Thats what Showbiz reporter Peter Ford tweeted last night as an Exclusive. Peter expanded to say that the rumoured deal would include projects like the 2016 Rio Olympics. Exclusive.@hamishandandy about to sign massive deal with 7 Network. Projects include Olympics. Back where they started but werent ready/ Peter Ford (@mrpford) February 28, 2016 In July last year when Radio Today spoke with Andy Lee, we asked if Television was still on Hamish & Andys radar. Andy said they were working on a couple of projects: We developing them slowly. and hopefully they will appear next year. H&As contract finished with the Nine Network with their final Gap Year series, whcih pulled huge results and even a Logie. If Seven West Media pull off a deal with the boys, it will be a return to the network they last worked with back in 2004. H&A have worked on the three major commercial networks with TV projects at different times, their work with Nine being the most successful so far. For the first time, Gallup included cyberterrorism in its annual survey of Americans' feelings about critical threats to U.S. interests over the next 10 years. Nearly three-quarters of respondents, 73 percent, said they felt cyberterrorism was a critical threat, behind only international terrorism and the threat that Iran might acquire nuclear weapons, but ahead of infectious diseases and the conflict in Syria. Issued early this month, the survey results come amid a flurry of activity on the issue on Capitol Hill and at the White House. In recent years, Americans have had their emails read, bank accounts compromised, and sensitive background histories stolen. Airline reservation systems have been remotely accessed. Law enforcement and intelligence officials and their families are endangered by hackers' revelation of home addresses and personal information. Just recently, Hollywood Presbyterian Hospital paid hackers $17,000 in ransom to regain control of its data. And the list of actions continues. While the full effect of such exploits is debatable, some experts see these as precursors of a coming cyber 9/11 that will cross over into the physical domain. The scattered events Americans are witnessing now could be mere scene-setters, this line of thinking goes, just like the attacks on U.S. assets abroad that presaged the 9/11 tragedy. CIA Director John Brennan said during an interview recently with CBS's 60 Minutes that the cyber environment is one that really is the thing that keeps me up at night. Apparently he is not alone. The Gallup poll doesn't indicate if America's concern about cyberterrorism is on the rise or not, since the question was never asked before, but it does signal concern about cybersecurity at a time the administration and Congress are stepping up their engagement on the issue. In widely publicized testimony before Congress on Feb. 9, Director of National Intelligence James Clapper presented lawmakers with the Worldwide Threat Assessment of the U.S. Intelligence Community (PDF), which emphasizes that devices, designed and fielded with minimal security requirements and testing, and an ever-increasing complexity of networks could lead to widespread vulnerabilities in civilian infrastructures and U.S. government systems. On the same day, the White House released the president's Cybersecurity National Action Plan to address one of the most important challenges we face as a nation. The plan envisions the creation of a new Commission on Enhancing National Cybersecurity, billions of dollars to modernize federal government IT systems, and initiatives to encourage private citizens to become better stewards of their own online security. When the president unveiled his 2017 budget blueprint, the $19 billion earmark for cybersecurity was one of the few not immediately dismissed on Capitol Hill. President Obama's new plan comes on the heels of December passage of the Cybersecurity Act of 2015, which allows greater sharing of information between public and private entities involved in cybersecurity. The most significant cybersecurity bill to come along in years, the measure was approved by bipartisan votes in both houses, including an overwhelming 93-0 vote in the Senate. The action in Washington comes amid emerging evidence that state and non-state actors possess disruptive capabilities that are primed for exploitation. Take for example a 2013 incident in which a group of Iranian hackers, possibly backed by the Iranian government, were able to remotely gain control of the tiny Bowman Avenue Dam in Rye Brook, N.Y. Nothing much happened and even if the breach had resulted in a total failure of the dam, its systemic impact would have been minimal. But, imagine, if those same hackers had instead somehow seized control of the Arthur R. Bowman Dam in Oregon, which at a height of 245-feet provides irrigation and flood protection for thousands of people. Or imagine an attack that might allow adversaries to gain control of parts of the U.S. power grid, casting Americans into darkness, shutting down communications networks, stopping financial transactions and making transportation all but impossible. This is hardly something out of science fiction: Last year, 80,000 Ukrainians temporarily lost power when hackers remotely hijacked the controls of a pair of power companies. Absent a bellwether disruption in the homeland that crosses from the cyber into the physical domain, policymakers could opt to shelve the issue to focus on other perceived pressing needs. Fortunately, this does not appear to be the case. It is increasingly clear now that U.S. officials, businesses and the public have a shared understanding about the risk of inaction. Michael A. Brown is the Department of Homeland Security Fellow at the non-profit, non-partisan RAND Corp. He has master's degrees in security studies from the Center for Homeland Defense and Security at the Naval Postgraduate School, and in public administration from Rutgers University-Newark. This commentary originally appeared on Inside Sources on February 29, 2016. Commentary gives RAND researchers a platform to convey insights based on their professional expertise and often on their peer-reviewed research and analysis. Viacom is on the hunt for outside investment for Paramount Pictures, saying it is open to significant strategic minority equity investment in the studio. "We have received indications of interest from potential partners seeking a strategic investment in Paramount Pictures and I have decided to pursue discussions with a select group of potential investors," said Philippe Dauman, executive chairman, president and CEO, Viacom . "In this time of change and enormous opportunity in our industry, a partnership will bring significant benefit to Paramount and Viacom, both strategically and financially, provide new opportunities for Paramount's employees and talent, and enhance long-term value for all Viacom shareholders."He added that Viacom wants to explore new strategies to capitalise on Paramount's content expertise and global platform.Paramount Pictures has been a leading motion picture studio for more than a century and is among a select few that has significant reach and scale, a deep library, a robust pipeline with proven global franchises, and a high potential television production operation," Dauman said. "In addition, the value of motion picture content continues to increase with the explosion of screens and the rapid expansion of the global theatrical market.Viacom has extended the Paramount catalogue to a linear pay-TV channel; after success with its global anchor brand in Western Europe and Latin America, it recently announced the launch of the Paramount Channel in Asia.Viacom has retained PJT Partners as its financial advisor to assist with the process. Zee Media has acquired an equity stake of up to 80% in two retail-based subsidiaries of India Today Group division Living Media India, to speed up its entrance in the TV shopping channel sector. Although currently running into losses, the subsidiaries Today Merchandise and Today Retail Network have been developing infrastructure to launch a shopping channel and already operate an e-commerce website called www.bagittoday.com By June 2016, Zee Media will acquire 49% stake by investing approximately INR397.8 billion by subscribing to equity shares of Today Merchandise and Today Retail Network, at par value. Zee will gain managerial and operational control over the target entities.Zee Media will increase its stake by investing INR1.26 billion in the subsequent four years, subscribing to any security convertible into equity shares in both companies, par value. When converted, the companys shareholding would be 80% of the fully diluted capital of Today Merchandise (TMPL) and Today Retail Network (TRNL).The corporation plans to invest almost INR1.658 billion in developing its TV shopping operations in the next four years.Zee Medias board of directors has approved the stake acquisition in principle, and expects to derive synergy benefits with its other broadcast operations, the company said in a statement to the Bombay Stock Exchange. Several foreign companies file lawsuit against Russian businessman Ismailov MOSCOW, February 29 (RAPSI) Ten foreign organizations filed a motion with the Moscow Regional Commercial Court asking to add them to the list of creditors who have financial claims against Russian businessman Ismailov, according to courts documents. Overall creditors demand 140 billion rubles ($1.8 billion) and $286.4 million in payments. Previously a separate lawsuit against Ismailov by the Bank of Moscow was dismissed. Telman Ismailov, who controls AST Group and is one of Russias richest men, clashed with law enforcement authorities in 2009 over the Cherkizovsky outdoor market, which evolved from a mere flea market into an industrial-scale distribution hub for Chinese imports during the oil boom. The market was closed after sanitary authorities found major violations. Currently Ismailov is in the middle of personal bankruptcy procedure. His overall debt to all creditors is estimated to be 20 billion rubles ($266 million). Investigation into Rusnano embezzlement case extended until June MOSCOW, February 29 (RAPSI) Pretrial investigation into the embezzlement of 220 million rubles ($2.9 million) from the Russian nanotechnology corporation Rusnano has been extended until June 11, lawyer Alexander Asnis told RAPSI on Monday. Charges have been brought against former Rusnano chief Leonid Melamed and ex-corporation managers Andrey Malyshev and Svyatoslav Ponurov. According to the Investigative Committee, the defendants illegally transferred 220 million rubles ($2.9 million) worth of budget funding, allotted to Rusnano in 2007-2009, to Alemar Co., controlled by Melamed. The suspects pled not guilty. In 2008, when the deal was being closed, Anatoly Chubais had already replaced Melamed, corporate sources said. They added that Melamed had not inflicted any losses on the company and promised to cooperate with law enforcement agencies. Earlier, Minister for Open Government Affairs Mikhail Abyzov said the buzz around this case would negatively affect the national business climate and the investigation itself. As we see a surge in inflation globally, it is now critical that everyone is aware of the implications this will have along every step of the insurance and reinsurance value chain. You Know, It's Hard Out Here For A Saudi You Know, It's Hard Out Here For A Saudi With apologies to the movie Hustle and Flow for the immortal song lyric used for this Charticle title, but it comes to mind when one reads yesterday's column from financial writer John Mauldin which suggests life may be getting a tad precarious for your average Saudi Arabian oil prince. Actually it's not just the oil princes, in a country propped up by oil wealth everybody's feeling a squeeze. Business Insider which ran Mauldin's column titled it 3 Reasons Saudi Arabia is Freaking Out About Its Cash Situation. Freak out they might: Just to start, 70% of Saudi Arabias population is under the age of 30 and nearly 90% of the population works for the government. And it's a population used to subsidized food, oil, social services and education. With a structure like this, cash reserves become very important and Mauldin graphs them here. http://www.businessinsider.com/3-reasons-saudi-arabia-freaking-out-about-cash-2016-2 During Thursday night's CNN-hosted Republican debate in Houston, Texas, candidate Marco Rubio finally took on leading contender Donald Trump, face-to-face, about Israel. Referring to Trump's statements that he would be a "neutral broker" between Israel and the Palestinians Rubio argued, "The Palestinians are not a real estate deal, Donald." "A deal is a deal," Trump replied. "A deal is not a deal when you're dealing with terrorists," Rubio said. This, in a nutshell, is what the Obama administration has ignored for the past seven years, and not only in relation to the Palestinian Authority. It is a key reason, though by no means an exclusive one, for getting the Democrats out of the White House and State Department. Rubio has been consistent in his grasp of why Israel and America are both the good guys and natural allies. At a rally on Wednesday night, in the lead-up to the final debate before Super Tuesday on March 1, Rubio was inspired and inspiring on this point. "We're going to have a policy of moral clarity," he said. "I'll give you a perfect example - Israel. Israel is the only pro-American free-enterprise democracy in the entire Middle East. I'll put it to you this way: If there were more Israels in the Middle East - more pro-American, free-enterprise democracies - the world would be so much safer." He also attacked the UN for being "obsessed" with the Jewish state. "Every week, they've got new resolutions condemning Israel," he said, using this to illustrate the "new face of anti-Semitism in the world." As for the Palestinians, Rubio said, "They teach little kids - five-year-olds - that it's a glorious thing to kill Jews." Indeed, he emphasized, "The Palestinians don't want a deal [and] they've already said, We want to destroy Israel.' So what are you going to negotiate? The rate of the destruction? The date of the destruction? We will not be an impartial advocate when it comes to the issue of Israel. When I'm president, we're going to take sides. We are going to be on Israel's side." Even before Rubio announced he would be running for America's highest office, however, he made impassioned speeches on Israel's behalf. Two days after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was re-elected in March 2015 - nearly a year ago - Rubio delivered a 15-minute tribute to Israel on the floor of the Senate. Netanyahu had won by a surprise landslide, after polls predicted a very different outcome. Yet he was still under attack at home and abroad for asserting there would be no two-state solution on his watch. "[Netanyahu's] right," Rubio stated unapologetically. "The conditions don't exist... but first, let's go through the history. In 2000 at Camp David, Israel offered the Palestinian Authority nearly all of the West Bank, eastern Jerusalem and Gaza. And the Palestinians said no. In 2000, Israel withdrew from southern Lebanon. You know what that is today? A place [from] where they launch rockets against Israel. In 2005, Israel withdrew from Gaza. You know what that is today? A place that they launch rockets against Israel from. In 2008, Israel offered the PA, again, nearly all of the West Bank - Judea and Samaria - and all of eastern Jerusalem. The PA said no. "What about the Palestinian record? ...About six percent of the Palestinian budget is diverted to pay the salaries of... terrorists, of people who have blown up centers and killed civilians, including Americans. And they are being paid salaries and benefits, including with money from donors, such as the US, Great Britain, Norway and Denmark." He then listed ways in which the PA envisions and educates its people to hope for a world without Israel, quoting blatant anti-Semitic and pro-terrorist passages from a Palestinian school book and the PA-run press. "And these are the people that we're pressuring [Israel] to cut a peace deal with," he said - "people who [say] there's no such thing as the Jewish people; that any method of destroying them is valid." Rubio concluded: "No people on earth want peace more than Israel. No people have suffered more at the hands of terrorism than the people of Israel. ...If America doesn't stand with Israel, who would we stand with?" Hearing Trump - whose consistently soaring popularity is due to Americans being rightly fed up with the totalitarianism of the left-wing "political correctness" that has been corroding American power, exceptionalism and free-market economics - assert even-handedness solely in relation to Israel is cause for serious concern. The medieval world has a powerful hold over our modern imaginations. We continually revisit this murky period of history in fictional frolics such as Game of Thrones, and stirring series including The Last Kingdom. Echoes of the so-called dark ages even carry as far as todays politics particularly when it comes to discussions about devolution. Indeed, as Westminster begins to relinquish political powers to Englands newly-formed city regions, some have claimed that these territories should be defined by historical precedent, rather than administrative practicalities. But how close are we to our medieval roots, and are our connections with the past really strong enough to influence modern-day decisions? To find out, we need to take a closer look at whats left of the Celtic, Anglo-Saxon and Viking kingdoms of yore. Ancient Elmet harkeytalk/Wikimedia commons Perhaps the most obvious links between past and present can be found simply by looking at the names of places on a map. Take, for example, the Leeds city region one of the first regions to be granted new powers over transport and skills development. This region encompasses the villages, towns and cities between Harrogate in the north, Barnsley in the south, Bradford in the west and York in the east, with Leeds at its heart. But its not the first time Leeds has been the centre of a regional power base; it was also at the core of the early medieval kingdom of Elmet. Notuncurious/Wikimedia commons, CC BY-SA This shadowy kingdom was under the control of Celtic rulers, who spoke a language akin to Welsh. It was later conquered by Edwin, an Anglo-Saxon king, in the 7th century and became part of his empire. Today, the kingdom is recalled in place names, and the parliamentary constituency of Elmet and Rothwell. Yet despite these geographical similarities, this connection is tenuous the modern Leeds city region also encompasses parts of North Yorkshire that would not have been in Elmet. And its unlikely that administrators had the medieval kingdom in mind when they were drawing the boundaries. Pursuing the past To find a more convincing connection between modern politics and medieval monarchs, we need to go beyond mere borders and explore cultural, political and genetic links. For instance, the advocates of Yorkshire devolution trace their heritage back to medieval times and even earlier. Theres certainly some evidence to support their longstanding connection with the region. The People of the British Isles project analysed the DNA of more than 2,000 people whose grandparents came from the same rural areas. The resulting genetic groups have been compared with 7th-century kingdoms, indicating some local stability in population over many centuries. Whats more, these ancestral links hold cultural and political force: a recent study showed how much Yorkshireness is still a key element of the identity of those living in the county. We can trace Yorkshires political identity back to the days of Edwin, a highly successful Anglo-Saxon king. Edwin belonged to the ruling dynasty of the Deirans, whose power base originally lay in eastern Yorkshire. Edwin expanded into the west of the county and overshadowed his northern Northumbrian neighbours, the Bernicians. He also established looser control over other parts of Britain. Not merely a warrior, Edwin was baptised in York and venerated as a saint. After his death, the Deirans lacked a strong champion. They were dominated by their northern neighbours and absorbed into a greater Northumbrian kingdom. The original Northern Powerhouse Wikimedia Commons Bordered to the south by the River Humber, the Kingdom of Northumbria encompassed northern England and some parts of southern Scotland. Dating from the 7th century, it is said to be the first concrete instance of the North-South divide: the early medieval writer Bede described separate spheres of Northumbrian and southern English politics. This northern Anglo-Saxon kingdom fragmented during the turbulence of the Viking Age. The core area was gradually incorporated into England, while the northern districts became part of Scotland. Nevertheless, Northumbrian identity evolved into a northern separatism that recurred in later times. This in turn generated a sense of northern cultural difference that is familiar today; pies and prejudice, in Stuart Maconies words. But while large kingdoms were liable to disintegrate in turbulent times, local and regional networks have tended to remain relatively stable. They formed the building blocks of larger political units and some, like Yorkshire, went on to become modern-day counties. A key question for modern politics is how the new devolution deals will complement these deeply-rooted identities. The case of Yorkshire highlights the tension between the new city regions, the old counties and an ancient northern identity. Medieval allegiances could be multi-layered, and encompass local, regional and national loyalties. The same balance is at stake in the modern devolution agenda. Andy Langenkamp is a global policy analyst for ECR Research. In its 2016 Preventive Priorities Survey, one of the world's most respected and influential think tanks, the Council on Foreign Relations, meticulously lists 11 conflicts whose possible repercussions are so far-reaching that their prevention (or mitigation) should take top priority. This political risks list does not bode well for Europe, as it implies that migrants are likely to continue flocking to the Continent in large numbers: -- Intensification of the Syrian civil war -- Attacks on the United States or its allies, with numerous fatalities -- A large-scale cyber-attack on the United States' core infrastructure -- A major crisis in or with North Korea -- Political instability in the EU on the back of the refugee crisis -- Worsening chaos in Libya -- Further escalation of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict -- Additional political violence in Turkey -- Growing instability in Egypt -- More atrocities and unrest in Afghanistan -- Further fragmentation in Iraq, caused by the Islamic State group and sectarian violence Instability Ground Zero It is almost a dead certainty that the Syrian civil war will continue to rage for quite some time. There are too many factions, militias, and parties that are fighting each other, while several of the major external players have conflicting interests. A durable truce is unlikely in the near-to-medium term. The Syrian war affects virtually all of the other potential crises and conflicts on the CFR list. It would be more accurate to speak of the Syrian-Iraqi war. ISIS's menacing presence in Iraq, growing animosity between Sunnis and Shia, and chaos and corruption are undermining the country and its government. We cannot, at this point, rule out a full-blown civil war in Iraq as well. The countries near Syria and Iraq that are put most at risk by the war now raging are Libya, Turkey, and Egypt, according to the experts. The situation in Egypt, however, is unlikely to get out of hand in the near future. President Abdel-Fattah El-Sissi is an authoritarian leader who appears to be in firm control of the country. He does not have any urgent reason to fear his neighbors, who seem relieved that the country shows a semblance of stability. Libya and Turkey are a different matter entirely. The former is hopelessly divided -- it even has two parliaments. There have been some attempts to create a national unity government, but in view of Libya's history and the existing imbalance of power, I am pessimistic, particularly now that ISIS is targeting Libya as a new base of operations. The country is certainly well qualified to hold the office. It is already a lawless haven for extremists, teeming with weapons, and its location offers excellent opportunities to anyone planning terrorist attacks in Europe. Turkish Theocracy & Taliban Tensions Turkey, too, is contaminated by the civil wars on its borders. It is embroiled in a drawn-out conflict with the Kurds, who aim to form a state that consists of parts of Iran, Iraq, Syria, and Turkey. The successes gained by the Syrian Kurds have made Turkish Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan very jittery. At the same time, Erdogan sees Syrian President Bashar Assad as a real threat, and this perception has caused him to turn a blind eye to Islamic State in the past. That is no longer the case, however, following attacks on Turkish soil, and thanks as well to Western pressure. This does not mean that Erdogan is prepared to collaborate with the Kurds. On the contrary, Turkey's Kurds are increasingly repressed. Some experts claim a civil war is already in progress in the southeast of Turkey. Erdogan makes good use of the struggle with the Kurds, as it enables him to sell his authoritarian Islamization of Turkish politics to the population. On the other hand, that part of the population resisting Erdogan's dictatorial tendencies makes Turkey more vulnerable. Add to this the presence of millions of refugees who cannot officially apply for asylum. (Due to a strange exception in international treaties, Turkey is allowed to only designate migrants from the West as refugees.) The political risks facing Turkey are daunting. Afghanistan's condition is even worse. The Taliban are on the march once again. It is feared that the country will become a major and essential link in the so-called Crescent of Chaos that runs from West Africa to Pakistan, and that it will continue to attract all sorts of extremists. The upshot could be mounting tensions between arch-rivals India and Pakistan, while the Americans (and NATO) could be forced to increase their military involvement. Crumbling Cohesion More violence in Afghanistan, and persistent civil war in Syria and Iraq, imply that refugee flows will grow instead of diminishing. Along with Kosovo, the three aforementioned countries are the most prolific suppliers of refugees in Europe. There is little doubt that the number of migrants will rise again in the spring, and in the summer. Yet it is extremely unlikely that the underlying problems will be addressed simultaneously. This means the pressure on Europe will only increase, and any remaining solidarity -- among member states and with refugees -- will be severely undermined. Borders are closing all over the Continent while the rules imposed on migrants are tightening -- to an antisocial degree in some countries. And as the populist parties become more popular, cohesion continues to crumble inside the European Union. (AP Photo) "Dancing with the Stars" professional dancer Kym Johnson are engaged after dating for 10 months. ADVERTISEMENT "I still can't believe that a year after walking into a dance studio of all places, my life has changed this much," Herjavec told People magazine Sunday. "Kym is an incredible woman and I'm just so excited for what the future brings for us." "To celebrate tonight with our family and friends, and my mom who flew in from Australia, wow -- I'm just overwhelmed and so happy," added Johnson. "He's a wonderful man and I'm so lucky." Johnson, 39, and the "Shark Tank" billionaire, 53, were dance partners on Season 20 of "Dancing with the Stars." , We're sorry, this article is not currently available Located in a small town in Texas is a replica of the White House which is currently on the market for $6 million, reports from The Wall Street Journal said. The replica of the White House is of course smaller than the real white house and is made from limestone. It was built in 1920 for Ross Sterling, a former governor of Texas. The mansion is situated in a small community in Galveston bay where only a few hundreds of people live. It is around 25 miles outside of Houston and is owned by an orthopedic surgeon, Marcos Masson. Masson said he bought the mansion about three years ago for $3.2 million. Since then, he extensively renovated the house, spending roughly $1.5 million. He also purchased palm trees and sand to create a tiny private beach within the bay. The property measures 21,000 square feet while the real White House has a land size of 55,000 square feet. The replica has some features as that of the South Portifico White House like its two sets of stairs as well as the flagpole. The replica and the real one are both grand. Swamplot reported the replica having nine bedrooms and 15 bathrooms. It has a room that is overlooking the bay with dual staircases. It also has separate parlors for both ladies and gentlemen, each with a powder room. The mansion also has a ballroom and a library. On the lower level of the house is where the recreation area, billiards, children's playroom, gym, and media room can be found. Masson said he is selling the house to increase his cash flow for his other projects. The firm which lists the property admitted that this is one of the most expensive homes they have ever listed in the market by far. Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty can now serve clients from Vero Beach and Indian River County with the recent acquisition of Norris & Company Real Estate. "Norris & Company Real Estate has been a leader in Indian River County's high-end real estate market for 45 years," said Rei Mesa, president and CEO of Florida Realty. "The firm is known for terrific leadership, a highly skilled sales team and a loyal client base. We are pleased to welcome these professionals to our family." According to the press release of Florida Realty in Business Wire, Norris & Company Real Estate is owned and operated by Vero Beach real estate veterans Gena Grove and Jane Schwiering since 1989. More than 50 sales professionals and support staff was added in the Florida Realty' team with the acquisition. "The Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices network is built on a foundation of trust, stability and longevity, and we're proud to be among its exceptional members," Schwiering said. "We believe the brand will resonate extremely well with our clients and agents alike." Both Grove and Schwiering will continue to work with Florida Realty as broker associates. "Florida Realty's core values and vision are an excellent match for our team," Grove said. "We are excited to join forces with Rei Mesa and Florida Realty, and to continue the long-standing tradition of growth with exceptional service." The acquisition of the Norris & Company Real Estate is part of the expansion series completed by Florida Realty since it has become a charter franchisee of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices in October 2013. Other acquisition recently completed by the Florida Realty include Realty Unlimited in St. Lucie County; Cristello & Company and Elite Preferred Realty in the Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch areas; Main Street Realty International in Orlando; and new branch offices in Palmer Ranch (Sarasota) and Winter Park (Orlando). At present, Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty has 39 offices and more than 1,750 sales professionals serving 18 counties throughout Florida. What do you imagine when the prospect of hell comes to mind? The roar of flames and smoke so thick it sticks to your throat and clouds your eyes? The screams of the burning and the wretched or the never-ending punishment, cruelty and torture? Director Laszlo Nemes swept international film festivals with his portrait of a man surviving in a hell not unlike the one described: Auschwitz in 1944. Charlayne Hunter-Gault speaks to students from Summerour Middle School about her book "To The Mountain Top" on Mon., March 31, 2014 in front of the Holmes-Hunter Academic building at the University of Georgia Athens campus. Mrs. Hunter-Gault was the first African-American student to attend the University of Georgia. Photo by John Roark/ johnroarkmedia.com The University of Georgia has partnered with GeoVax Labs to develop a preventive vaccine for the Zika virus, according to Dr. Ted Ross, professor in the Department of Infectious Diseases at the College of Veterinary Medicine and Georgia Research Alliance Eminent Scholar in Infectious Diseases. SHARE A new study shows that only one-third of patients who ultimately receive a living donor kidney transplant receive it pre-emptively -- i.e., before starting dialysis. (Photo courtesy Fotolia/TNS) By Mayo Clinic News Network A kidney transplant is a life-changing and life-saving procedure. Yet, a new study conducted by Mayo Clinic and the University of Michigan shows that only one-third of patients who ultimately receive a living donor kidney transplant receive it pre-emptively (i.e., before starting dialysis). Less than two-thirds receive a transplant either pre-emptively or within a year of starting dialysis. Existing research suggests that less time spent on dialysis before transplant can improve patient outcomes and survival after transplant. However, this new research shows there has been no increase in the utilization of what is known as timely living donor kidney transplants, which includes pre-emptive and early transplants since 2006. The study Under-utilization of timely kidney transplants in those with living donors was published recently in the American Journal of Transplantation. Early referral to transplant evaluation and access to information about living donor kidney transplantation is key to a successful timely transplant and to improved long-term outcomes, says Mark Stegall, M.D., a professor of surgery at Mayo Clinic and senior author of the manuscript. One important area where people lack education is on how to communicate with family and friends about their need for a kidney transplant and the fact that live donors offer, on average, a better outcome than deceased donor transplantation. Past studies and patient data have shown that we can improve a persons quality of life and chance of surviving end-stage renal disease if we can avoid or minimize the amount of time they spend on dialysis, says Ankit Sakhuja, M.B.B.S., a graduate of Mayo Clinic Renal Transplant Fellowship. He also currently is an assistant professor and director of the kidney paired donation program in the Division of Nephrology at the University of Michigan. Mayo Clinic and University of Michigan researchers examined data from the United Network for Organ Sharing to evaluate the use of timely kidney transplants from 2000 to 2012 for 68,128 patients who received living donor transplants. Although data showed an improvement in the use of pre-emptive and early living donor transplants between 2000 and 2006, there has been no improvement since. Patients who are receiving transplants from compatible living donors should, theoretically, not need to go on dialysis at all, says Sakhuja. In comparison, patients with no living donors may wait for a deceased donor organ for a long time. But in reality, we see a wide variation in the timing of transplants and no improvement in the use of timely transplants from living donors, despite the potential availability and known benefits. Factors that influence a persons chance of receiving a timely living kidney transplant are thought to include lack of available living donors, decreased number of living donors, lack of insurance, lack of education or knowledge, delayed diagnosis and delayed referral. Paired donations and direct donation represent two viable and available options for timely living kidney transplant. Yet both can be influenced by early referral and by a patients understanding of their situation and the transplant evaluation process. The use of timely kidney transplant can vary greatly from one transplant center to another, based on factors including the patient population, the transplant team and its comfort in evaluating living donors, and providing prompt transplant evaluations for patients. But according to Stegall, approximately 80 percent of kidney transplants at Mayo Clinic in the past 15 years have been from living donors, with 40 percent of those being pre-emptive living donor transplants. Currently, more than 600,000 people suffer from end-stage renal disease and are candidates for dialysis or kidney transplant. To learn more about living donor kidney transplants, visit www.mayoclinic.org/transplant. Mayo Clinic News Network 2016 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC. SHARE California overpaid about 20,000 state workers at the beginning of the year and now it is asking for the money back. The overpayment errors stem from a failure to increase the deductions for employees' health insurance for the new year. It affects roughly 5 percent of the paychecks and direct deposits the state issues each month, including those of nearly 13,000 members of the California Correctional Peace Officers Association and about 7,000 members of the International Union of Operating Engineers Bargaining Unit 12. The errors amounted to from $37 to $101 per employee, which translates to a total of approximately $730,000 to $2 million. Workers must repay the excess amounts by making a direct payment to the state, or through a payroll or leave credits deduction. The International Union of Operating Engineers was not pleased with the inconvenience caused by the state's errors. In a notice to its members, the union wrote: "We understand that you will bear the burden of their mistake. You, the employee, will feel the impact, not the state." "We had a high volume of health plan changes this year," state Controller's Office spokesman John Hill told the Sacramento Bee. The Bee added that Controller's Office staff "could not complete hand entering those employee-by-employee adjustments into the state's outdated payroll system in time." It is astonishing how outdated so many of the state's IT systems are, where workers have to enter hundred of thousands of payroll adjustments by hand each time there is a change in compensation. Even when the state does try to make needed upgrades, it is alarming how consistently payroll and other IT projects are bungled sometimes even abandoned mid-project wasting hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars in the process. Projects for the state court system, DMV, Employment Development Department, Department of Consumer Affairs, Department of Fair Employment and Housing, CalPERS and the UC system are a few examples in recent years. Though the overpayment errors in this case were relatively small and will presumably be recovered, the incident is emblematic of the state's bloated bureaucracy and the lack of efficiency in government. It also highlights the need for better management of agency IT capabilities and needs, and for performance-based IT contracts that transfer the risk of cost overruns from taxpayers to contractors. SHARE It amazes me to see the sought-after and finished projects that key players in this community have gotten and seek to get at the expense of federal and state taxpayers. I suspect many of these same folks are in support of a 51st state, called, of all things, "Jefferson." Why not "Lincoln"? I think we all can deduce the answer to that. Think about it. This city and county have gotten hundreds of millions of dollars over the years from the same federal government many want to have made smaller. Along with the state government they want to break free from. Why? Because this North State is so mistreated and forgotten and gets no support from California. Talk about hypocrites and shallow thinkers. They forget all the money they've been granted by those government agencies and still many are asking for more grants every day for projects that will benefit themselves and their business friends. So many towns and cities have tried to revitalize their old downtowns after they chose years ago to move away from those areas and create malls and shopping in larger areas that could support those developments and parking. Now, they want to spend millions of dollars undoing the projects their predecessors made at the expense of statewide taxpayers through grants of millions of dollars. It has gotten to the point that it takes folks with special knowledge to write these grants. They know what will be granted and what will be thrown out, based on the way the grants are written. Redding and Shasta County seek millions for new buildings a new City Hall, new District Attorney's building, new library, a new county officers building, new police station, new Cypress Avenue bridge and new Highway 44 bridge. I suspect I've only scratched the surface. At the same time, let's not use all the gas taxes for the roads. Instead let's patch and repair potholes and hope they all get their 30 years in before people complain to much. Let the next administration worry about it. Besides that, they have the nerve to spend money to take away roadways and reduce lanes to one where there are heavy traffic loads to accommodate bicycle lanes lanes that you never see anyone using, except for a few folks. Doing what's best for the most doesn't seem to be our leaders' objective. The City Council and county Board of Supervisors are supposed to be doing things that benefit the motoring public and provide the best, fastest and most efficient methods of transportation as the state tries to do with the interstate and freeway systems. It's not happening. Ask yourself, who are the key players who will cash in and benefit on trying to revitalize the old downtown? By that time, the money has been invested, property values increased and the only losers are the taxpayers. Don Farrell lives in Redding. On the sidelines of the California Democratic Convention 2016, US Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez told Rediff.com's Ritu Jha that the US will patch up with India over United States's decision to sell F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan. Loretta Sanchez at the convention. Photograph: Ritu Jha/Rediff.com As India expressed 'displeasure and disappointment over the United States's decision to sell F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan, California Congresswoman Loretta Sanchez said the US she will patch things up with India soon on the issue. "I am going to visit India as soon as this election gets over. We will patch things up. We will be good. We need to have a good relationship with India," Sanchez spoke to Rediff.com on the sidelines of the California Democratic Convention 2016. She is running for 2016 US senate seat from California against State Attorney General Kamala Harris. "I have been to India many times and have worked on how we can work back and forth. I have been working very well with the Indian-American community here as well," she said. When asked would she be opposing the deal, she said, "I have to go back to the Congress to see what's going on." On why the US is so adamant with the deal, Sanchez, who also holds senior positions on the house armed services committee and the house homeland security committee said that the US is trying to figure out where it has friends in a very difficult world. "Pakistan is a country that has a long problem with terrorism and the western world is against terrorism. Pakistan needs to be fixed that problem. I think there must be some condition on F-16 deal with Pakistan," she said. Talking about India, Sanchez said that India is doing great but the country needs to move a lot of people up economically. California Democratic Convention 2016 Sanchez, however, failed to get the endorsement and got 19.3 percent votes of the 2139 votes cast by the delegates on Saturday. Meanwhile, Kamala Harris got 78.1 percent of the votes to win the coveted California Democratic Party endorsement for US Senate. "I am incredibly honored to have the endorsement of the California Democratic Party in the US senate race, and I am so proud of the support," said Harris. Kamala Harris at the convention. Photograph: Ritu Jha/Rediff.com "We know there is more that unites us than divides us, and I am grateful to the Californians who joined together to send that message this weekend," Harris said in her statement. "We will be making history this time," Harris told Rediff.com. Born to an Indian mother and a Jamaican-American father, Harris said, "There hasn't been anyone of Indian heritage in the United States senate, so it is very significant." Good day for Congressman Dr. Ami Bera Meanwhile, it was a good day for Congressman Dr. Ami Bera, who is running from California's 7th district. "I feel great," Bera told Rediff.com on the sidelines of the voting room, where large number of delegates traveled from his district to vote and endorse him. He will be facing Sacramento County Sheriff Scott Jones, a Republican in the June 2016 primary. "This is democracy in progress. I am going to continue to work hard to get everyone's endorsement, both Democrats and Republican support and most important the people who I represent in the district. So, winning in November is incredibly important," said Bera. In another much talked race, Congressman Mike Honda won 80 percent vote while his opponent Ro Khanna received just less than 5 percent votes. Supporters of Kamala Harris and Loretta Sanchez at the convention. Photograph: Ritu Jha/Rediff.com Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is facing sedition charge, on Monday said he is a "bigger patriot" than Prime Minister Narendra Modi and claimed that the Bharatiya Janata Party does not want to upset Peoples Democratic Party chief Mehbooba Mufti by arresting the "real traitors" in the JNU case. "I have been booked for sedition. I have been raising voice in favour (of) Dalits, the backwards (Pichchdo) and the poor which is why I am an anti-national for them (BJP). My voice cannot be muzzled. I will continue to fight for them," Kejriwal said in a series of tweets. Kejriwal claimed that those who raised anti-India slogans at the varsity campus were from Kashmir. "I am a bigger patriot than Modiji. I ask why he has not yet arrested those who had raised slogans for the destruction of the country... because those who raised such slogans are from Kashmir and if they are arrested, Mehbooba Mufti will get angry. "Our soldiers are being martyred everyday on the border. And Modiji is saving the anti-national elements to form government in Kashmir," Kejriwal said, referring to the on-going talks between BJP and PDP to form government in Jammu and Kashmir following the death of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. Kejriwal, Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi, CPI-M General Secretary Sitaram Yechury are among nine persons who have been booked on sedition charges on Sunday by the Hyderabad Police. An FIR has been registered against Rahul, Kejriwal, Yechury, Congress leaders Anand Sharma and Ajay Maken, CPI leader D Raja, JD(U) Spokesperson KC Tyagi, JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar and JNU research scholar Umar Khalid on the order of a court based on a complaint filed by lawyer Janardhan Goud. It cant order the military to shoot at the crowd, the Supreme Court on Monday said while dismissing a plea seeking giving free hand to the army to control unruly mob during the Jat agitation in Haryana. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India T S Thakur said that the army was capable enough to deal with any situation and as and when the situation arises things will be taken care of. You want us to issue direction to the army to shoot at the mob. We cant issue such directions. We cant allow the army to open fire at the mob. As and when the situation arises things will be taken care of. Army is capable enough to deal with any situation, the bench also comprising justices R Bhanumathi and U U Lalit said. It said that whoever will take law in his own hand will be prosecuted as per the law and dismissed the petition as withdrawn. The bench observed that had the petitioner advocate Ajay Jain sought compensation to the victim of the violent agitation, it would have thought of considering it. Had you asked for compensation to the victims of the agitation, we would have thought of considering it, the bench said. Petitioner then sought courts permission to amend the prayer in his petition which the bench denied, saying it cant allow him to do so. The bench also refrained itself from imposing the cost on petitioner after he kept on insisting for consideration of his plea. He, however, later agreed to withdraw his plea. The petitioner in his plea has sought direction for Haryana government to give complete free hand to the army/paramilitary forces to control the situation which includes inter alia to fire at the mob to bring the situation under control. He has also sought direction to local administration of Rohtak, Haryana to hand over the administration to army and not to interrupt in any manner whatsoever in the armys affair in dealing with the situation. Direct the Union of India to provide adequate number of army/paramilitary forces as is required to deal with mob of 20,000 people roaming in or around district Rohtak, the plea had said. A Delhi court on Monday allowed the custodial interrogation of two Jawaharlal Nehru University students, Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya, arrested in a sedition case, by one more day. The court extended the police custody of the duo, who had allegedly organised a controversial event at the JNU on February 9 where anti-India slogans were said to have been raised, after police contended that they were required for further probe in the case to unearth the larger conspiracy. According to the police sources, the anti-terror unit of Delhi police -- special cell -- to which the case has been transferred, needed some time to interrogate both the accused. The police has claimed that around 22 people present at the flashpoint JNU event, including some outsiders, have been identified after the joint interrogation of Khalid, Anirban and Jawaharlal Nehru University Student President Kanhaiya Kumar arrested in the same case. Khalid and Anirban are in police remand since their surrender and subsequent arrest on February 24. Earlier, the Delhi high court had ordered that "confidentiality" be maintained during the remand proceedings of Umar and Anirban, besides Kumar, while directing the police to ensure that no one "suffers even a scratch" and there is no ruckus this time. Lawyers had allegedly assaulted Kumar when he was brought to Patiala House court for remand proceedings, in defiance of a Supreme Court order, on February 17. Two days earlier, when Kumar was to be brought to the court, the same set of lawyers had thrashed journalists and JNU students and teachers. The high court order came during the hearing on Kumar's bail plea after it was informed that the student leader, Umar and Anirban were apprehending threat to their safety and security during production before Patiala House court for remand proceedings. The police also inquired whether two of them were the main organisers of the February 9 event against the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru and whether they were involved in anti-India sloganeering which allegedly took place. The duo had returned to the JNU campus last Sunday after they went missing on February 12. Besides Kumar, Khalid and Bhattacharya, the other students allegedly involved in the case are Rama Naga, Ashutosh Kumar and Anant Prakash. Ashutosh has joined the investigation with the Delhi Police. The police had issued a look-out notice on February 20 against Khalid, Bhattacharya, Naga, Ashutosh and Prakash. In its order, the high court had also directed its registrar general to depute a metropolitan magistrate for conducting remand proceedings and asked DCP (South) Prem Nath, who was present inside the courtroom during the hearing, to coordinate with the registrar general for this. The bench said Kanhaiya's counsel has apprehended serious threat to his client's life during production before the court for remand proceedings and for this reason, his bail plea was transmitted to the high vourt by the Supreme Court. The court had heard brief arguments on Kanhaiya's bail plea and posted it for further hearing for today with Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta stating that in view of the arrest of Khalid and Bhattacharya, the police would file an application seeking his further custody. The court had also heard separate petitions filed by Khalid and Bhattacharya in which they had sought security before they surrender to police and their advocates told the bench that since their clients have surrendered the prayer "does not survive". Pakistan on Monday executed former police commando Mumtaz Qadri, who assassinated former liberal Punjab governor Salman Taseer for seeking reforms in the country's controversial blasphemy laws, triggering nation-wide protests by Islamists who called it a "black day". Qadri, who shot Taseer 28 times in 2011 in broad daylight in an upmarket locality of Islamabad for criticising the blasphemy laws, was hanged in Adialia jail of Rawalpindi city at around 4:30 am, officials said. Within hours of the hanging, street protests broke out in several cities by the supporters of Qadri, who considered him as a hero for defending the faith, and had threatened violence if he was executed. Rangers and riot police were deployed outside Qadri's home in Rawalpindi where hundreds of supporters had gathered and also in nearby Islamabad. In Rawalpindi, a mob ransacked a vehicle belonging to a local TV channel and attacked reporters while in the port city of Karachi, Qadri's supporters clashed with police. Most schools closed down here and in Rawalpindi, fearing violence by Qadri's supporters. His supporters blocked roads, burned tyres and also forced many shopkeepers to close down their stores. Activists of Sunni groups, who had given a hero-like status to Qadri, blocked main intersections in Rawalpindi, cutting off the main link with capital Islamabad. A senior police official said that high-alert had been issued in Rawalpindi and in the Punjab province to tackle any untoward situation. "Security forces were on high alert and extra police were being deployed to clear the roads," a police official said. After assassinating Taseer in January 2011, Qadri admitted the killing and said he objected to the governor's calls to reform the blasphemy laws. Taseer, who died aged 66, had come out it in support of a Christian woman charged with blasphemy and termed the regulations as "black laws" drawing the ire of extremists. An anti-terrorism court had convicted and condemned Qadri to death in the same year, a ruling also upheld by the Islamabad high court and the Supreme Court. A review petition of Qadri was also turned down by the top court on December 14 last year, leaving him with the last option of to file a clemency appeal to President Mamnoon Hussain. His mercy appeal was also rejected by the President. Radical religious groups had been demanding that Qadri should be forgiven as he killed a "blasphemer". Sunni Tehreek chief Sarwat Ijaz Qadri condemned the hanging, saying, "It is black day in the history of the country. Those who executed Qadri have only spoiled their chances of success hereafter." The controversial blasphemy law was introduced by former military dictator Zia-ul Haq in 1980s. Former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dikshit on Monday said the people of Delhi were paying a heavy price because of the confrontationist attitude of Arvind Kejriwal. People of Delhi are regretting as to why they made him the CM as he always says something and does something else, the senior Congress leader remarked. Lashing out at Kejriwals confrontationist attitude, she said, people of Delhi were regretting what they had done one year ago. She alleged Kejriwal always plays the blame game by either trying to blame the Lieutenant Governor or the Police Commissioner or the Central government. Even I worked within such limitations and I never complained while making Delhi a world class city, she said. She alleged that development had come to a standstill and the Delhi chief minister was simply trying to wriggle out of the situation by trying to blame others when he should own the responsibility. This government has not laid down a single new brick and has only been trying to take credit for what we did during the last 15 years, she said. She cautioned the people of Punjab not to get deceived by his promises which he never fulfils. There is a huge gap between what he says and what he does, she said, while remarking, he preaches something and practises something else. She was accompanied by senior party leaders including former Punjab Chief Minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, Congress Legislature Party leader Charanjit Singh Channi and MLA Balbir Sidhu. The former Delhi chief minister pointed out, that the Safai Karamcharis in Delhi are on strike for last six months as the Aam Aadmi Party government is not able to pay their salaries, but the same government has allocated Rs 520 crore for its publicity. She said, compared to AAP, the Congress government on an average spent around Rs 25 crore per year on publicity. Dixit said there was unemployment everywhere and those working were not getting their wages like the safai karamcharis, but Kejriwal raised his and his MLAs salary by 400 per cent which was unprecedented and unheard in history. Successor Anandiben Patel isnt having an easy time, with a protest movement by her own community and new challenges in keeping the mandate. Vinay Umarji reports On Friday, February 19, the Gujarat unit of the ruling Bhartiya Janata Party declared Vijay Rupani, cabinet minister in Chief Minister Anandiben Patels government and MLA from Rajkot (West) the next party president in the state. Though a unanimous decision, the appointment of a new state BJP chief was delayed by almost a month, owing to differences between Patel and party national president Amit Shah, say insiders. From a Baniya (read non-Patidar) community, Rupani would be a safe bet at a time when the party is facing multiple challenges, from an agitating Patidar (Patel) community demanding reservation to the oppositions allegation of undue advantage by the government to business partners of the CMs daughter, Anar Patel, vehemently denied. Though a non-controversial personality, Rupani is seen as a Amit Shah confidante. Hence, his appointment hints at the latters increased indirect control of the state unit, where rumours of factionalism are rife. During (Prime Minister Narendra) Modis chief ministership, the BJP in Gujarat was united. Now there are factions, though no one will admit it, says social and political analyst Achyut Yagnik. This, among other comparisons with her predecessor, has not escaped Anandiben Patel, recently having faced a flurry of challenges. She turns 75 this November. Contrary to the authoritarian style of leadership identified with Modi, his protege and first woman CM has exhibited mixed styles. Some senior bureaucrats say comes across as arrogant, yet bold, in decisions. However, peers in the cabinet and political observers find a lack of vision in her governance. She believes a lot in follow-up and is detail oriented. She likes to keep a tab on the scheme and, hence, makes surprise visits at places to monitor the implementation. This has meant she travels extensively within the state, observes a top bureaucrat who works closely with her. Yet, others find a lack of vision, contrary to Modi who seemed to work with an end in mind. This was visible when Patel drew severe flak over her handling of the Patidar agitation that peaked on August 25, 2015, after a mega rally in Ahmedabad led by Hardik Patel, convenor of Patidar Anamat Andolan Samiti. The rally followed the latters detention and subsequent violence across the state by community members, coupled with police excess on citizens. The administration could not take hold of the situation for almost a month. Initially, her leadership attempted at exhibiting boldness, when her government stood its ground and took time to reach out for negotiation with the Patidar leaders. However, when it did negotiate, it seemed to go all the way to appease them. Eventually, it was the arrests that subsided the situation. This, to me, shows she is not as charismatic as Modi and could not hold on to things before they would escalate, opines Vidyut Joshi, another social scientist. The other criticism her administration faces is the way cracks in the Gujarat model seemed to have emerged. The Patel government has been found to continue to favour large industries over small industries and the rural agrarian population. For Sebastian Morris, faculty member at the Indian Institute of Management-Ahmedabad, the Gujarat model was never very robust and not all-inclusive. It was not based on including everyone, such as in agriculture. Even the Patel agitation is an economic one. There has been no change in orientation in the governments leadership and, hence, the same kind of economic agenda continues. More, issues in Gujarat have come to the fore in recent times because the overall economy has not been doing well. When the Centre grows, Gujarat grows and vice versa. When India is being affected, Gujarat gets badly affected, since it is a predominantly a manufacturing state, says Morris. Lending strength to his view, that the economic agenda continues to be focused largely on industries and on not being inclusive, are the recent local body poll results, in December 2015. These saw the BJP winning all six municipal corporations and 40 of 56 municipalities in urban areas. However, it lost to the Congress in 21 of the 31 district panchayats and 110 of the 230 taluka panchayats. The day after the poll results, the BJP government in Gujarat announced a 6,000 acre land bounty to co-operative societies and agricultural produce committees at concessional rates. That has been followed by a slew of schemes aimed at pleasing agrarian communities, along with small cottage and medium industries, beside youths from all sections. After facing huge trouble in the Patidar agitation in the state in August 2015, the state government announced a package of Rs 1,000 crore for economically backward category youths. During 2015, the government announced schemes for agriculture such as crop insurance, organic farming and more incentives for small industries. The past couple of months have also seen a slew of policies for the information technology sector, films, tourism, the Alang ship breaking industry and a policy for start-ups and for cottage industry. The rural-urban divide in the local body polls does come across as a surprise for the Anandiben Patel regime which has been increasing focus on agriculture, irrigation and social services in the past few state budgets. For instance, the outlay for social services during Narendra Modis chief ministership was around 42 per cent, which rose to 48 per cent in Anandiben Patels regime. As Gujarats first woman chief minister, Anandiben Patel also launched a result oriented Gatisheel Gujarat program under which focused efforts were being made on strengthening areas like women empowerment, cleanliness, industrial development, health, and education, among others with dedicated schemes. In the past two years, the Anandiben Patel-led government has announced several policies and scheme for the students, woman, youth, industries, urban development through civic bodies. For instance, her government allotted a revolving fund for women empowerment, linked self-help groups to banks and gave cash credit of Rs 60 crore. It provided equipment to civic bodies for cleanliness and has built thousands of toilets for rural sanitation. Time, however, is short and she seems to know this. Last weeks budget announcement saw Gujarat opening 66,000 positions in the state government for employment, a first in terms of size since formation of the state. Rumours are rife over a threat to her position as CM. Also, the Anar Patel allegations have got tongues wagging within and without the party. Apparently, a company run by business associates of the CMs daughter owns 400 acres -- 250 acres of which was allotted at Rs 15 a square metre -- near the Gir lion sanctuary. There are also rumours that Modi asked her to rectify her image. Nevertheless, party insiders say her position is safe till December 2017, when the state goes into assembly polls. She still has Modis support, says one. Also, any change of guard will create a bad image for the party, observes Joshi. Going ahead, the challenge will be in controlling the Patidar agitation, which could be possible, given a strong representation of the community in the cabinet, including the CM herself. The other challenge would be the two monsoons before the assembly elections next year. Depending on how good these are, it could tilt the rural vote in favour or against Anandiben. A non-Patidar and neutral party chief in Gujarat could help conclude her tenure in dignity, says Yagnik, who believes there doesnt seem a possibility of a second term for her. Rupani says he has a difficult task. There are challenges but we are hopeful of resolving these. We are speaking to agitating Patels and hopefully a resolution would be worked out, he told journalists soon after his appointment. INITIATIVES Measures taken during Anandiben Patels tenure as chief minister: >> 6,000 acres land bounty to co-operative societies and agricultural produce committees at concessional rates >> Rs 1,000 crore package for economically backward category youths >> Opening 66,000 positions in the state government for employment >> Announcement of schemes and policies for agriculture, small industries, information technology industry, film, tourism, Alang ship breaking industry, start-ups and cottage industry >> Increase in outlay for social services from 42 per cent during Narendra Modis chief ministership to 48 per cent >> Launch of result-oriented Gatisheel Gujarat programme for focused efforts in strengthening areas like women empowerment, cleanliness, industrial development, health and education >> Allotment of revolving fund for women empowerment, linked self-help group to banks and cash credit of Rs 60 crore In view of the extremely inimical relations between the government and the Opposition there may well be a possibility that the latter decides to push the envelope and claim its right to punish offences against the authority and dignity of the House, says Rajeev Sharma. The decision of the Congress and the Communist Party of India-Marxist to move a privilege motion against Union Human Resource Development Minister Smriti Irani is at worst an embarrassment for her, but does not pose an existential crisis for the actor-turned-politician in the political sense. This is because a large percentage of privilege motion notices are rejected and it is only in a handful of cases that penal action is recommended against the person accused of breaching parliamentary privileges. Perhaps the most notable case in this context was against former prime minister Indira Gandhi 38 years ago when the then home minister Charan Singh had moved a resolution of breach of privilege against her following observations made by the Justice Shah Commission which probed excesses during the Emergency. Indira Gandhi, who had just won Lok Sabha seat from Chikmagalur, was expelled from the House. What is a privilege motion? Who can move it, against whom, under what circumstances and under what rules? Which are other important motions in Indian parliamentary procedures? These are the fundamental questions about this little-known but frequently-in-the-news topic. Here is a pithy explainer. A privilege motion can be moved by any lawmaker against anyone accused of breaching parliamentarians' privileges, their special rights and immunities. Each of the two houses, the Lok Sabha and the Rajya Sabha, has separate privilege committees, made up of their members. The presiding officers of the two Houses, the Speaker and the Chairperson respectively, can dismiss privilege notices, or refer them to the privilege committee, or get a sense of the House before taking a decision. In the Lok Sabha, a privilege motion can be moved under Rule No 222 in Chapter 20 of the Lok Sabha Rule Book while in the Rajya Sabha it can be moved under Rule 187 in Chapter 16 of the Rajya Sabha rule book. Under the rules in the respective houses, a member may, with the consent of the Speaker or the Chairperson, raise a question involving a breach of privilege either of a member or of the House or of a committee thereof provided that the notice is given before 10 am and the matter pertains to an incident of recent occurrence. In the present case against Irani, if the notice is admitted, the House committee can summon and question her and recommend action. Past experience shows that in a large percentage of cases the privilege motions are kept pending or are withdrawn following an apology from the accused. The current episode may well chart a different course and go for a long haul given the highly acerbic and bitter relations between the Narendra Modi government and the Opposition. In view of the extremely inimical relations between the government and the Opposition there may well be a possibility that the latter decides to push the envelope and claim its right to punish as contempt actions which, while not breach of any specific privilege, are perceived offences against the authority and dignity of the House. Apart from the privilege motion, there are five more important motions in Indian Parliament which are given below in alphabetical order. Adjournment Motion, which seeks adjournment of the business of the House for the purpose of discussing a definite matter of urgent public importance. Calling Attention Motion, which calls the attention of a minister to any matter of urgent public importance and the minister may make a brief statement or ask for time to make a statement at a later hour or date. Censure Motion, which seeks to censure the government for its 'lapse' as the Opposition expresses its lack of confidence in the council of ministers. Cut Motion, which seeks reduction in the amount of a demand presented by the government. There are three types of cut motions -- Disapproval of Policy Cut, Economy Cut, Token Cut. No-Confidence Motion is the most serious of all. Under this parliamentary provision, a member moves this motion to express lack of confidence in the government for any reason. If the government fails to get required majority of votes during voting after a debate, the government has to bow out of office. Republican US presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during an airport rally in Millington, Tennessee. Photograph: Karen Pulfer Focht/Reuters Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump again stirred up controversy after he retweeted words attributed to Italian dictator Benito Mussolini and then defended his action saying it was a "very good quote". "@ilduce2016: 'It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep,' --@realDonaldTrump #MakeAmericaGreatAgain," the Republican front-runner shared from a parody Twitter account. The website Gawker claimed credit for creating the parody account about Il Duce, which translates to 'the leader' in Italian. The Gawker website said it had created "a Twitter bot that would post quotes from the writings and speeches of... Mussolini" at Trump until he eventually retweeted one on Sunday. The parody account's profile picture is a composite of Trump's hair and Mussolini's face. The 69-year-old reality TV star-turned politician, later told NBC News, it did not make a difference to him whose quote it was. "It's a very good quote. It's a very interesting quote...I know who said it. But what difference does it make whether it's Mussolini or somebody else?" Trump said. Asked whether he wanted to be associated with Mussolini, he said, "No, I want to be associated with interesting quotes. Hey, it got your attention, didn't it?" Mussolini led Italy from 1922 until 1943. The fascist dictator led the country into war with the United States in 1941. Some conservative critics of Trump's rhetoric about use of power, both in the US and abroad, have suggested that his declarations fall along the lines of fascist oratory. Trump is an avid Twitter user, and he often goes on posting sprees in the middle of the night or early in the morning. At times, his retweets have been questionable, including posts from accounts associated with white nationalists. Also on Sunday, Trump appeared reluctant to distance himself from an endorsement from David Duke, a former senior leader of the white supremacist group Ku Klux Klan. He told CNN that he "didn't know anything about David Duke". Later, however, he tweeted a video from an earlier press conference in which he appeared to recognise Duke's name immediately and said, "David Duke endorsed me? OK, I disavow". Trump's retweet and remarks come ahead of the "Super Tuesday" showdown that will see primaries in 11 states and which the real estate tycoon's supporters say will seal the Republican nomination for him. It is not the first time Trump has shared controversial tweets with his nearly 6.5 million followers. British Prime Minister David Cameron on Monday wrote a passionate column to launch the first new national daily in the UK in 30 years to call for Britain to stay in the European Union. 'New Day', launched by the Trinity Mirror Group, publishers of 'Daily Mirror' and 'Sunday Mirror' newspapers, is the first "standalone daily national newspaper" to be launched in the country. "The choice is clear: between a greater Britain and the great unknown. I hope readers will choose certainty and prosperity over speculation and risk. Then we can carry on making this great country greater still," Cameron wrote in reference to the referendum on June 23 when the British public will vote on whether to stay in or leave the European Union. "We need to take the decision that leaves us stronger, safer and better off - and I'm clear that means a decision to stay in a reformed European Union. Those who wish to leave Europe dont have that clarity. They tell you the grass would be greener but they can't or won't say how," he wrote. Two million copies of 'New Day' are being distributed free on Monday. From Tuesday, it will cost 25p for two weeks before rising to 50p. Trinity Mirror Group hopes to sell about 200,000 copies a day. The editor, Alison Phillips, who previously headed the 'Sunday Mirror' and 'Sunday People' at the group, said the 'New Day' was predicated on an alternative way of thinking about how a newspaper should work. "Because we've started from scratch, we've thrown out all the previous thinking on how a newspaper should be structured and started with a blank piece of paper. The idea is that this paper should give you in 40 pages everything on any given day in a 30-minute read, without being bombarded with content you dont need," she said. The newspaper has no dedicated website and has just 25 staff, something the publisher hopes could make it profitable quickly. It is the first new national paper since the launch of 'i', a slimmed-down version of the 'Independent' which went on sale in October 2010. However, Trinity Mirror claims it is the first standalone title since the Independent's own debut in 1986. Simon Fox, chief executive of Trinity Mirror, said,"Over a million people have stopped buying a newspaper in the past two years but we believe a large number of them can be tempted back with the right product". "Revitalising print is a core part of our strategy in parallel with digital transformation and there doesn't have to be a choice between the two - newspapers can live in the digital age if they have been designed to offer something different," Fox said. The newspaper describes itself as "upbeat" and "politically neutral". Some men and women did seek shelter in our dhaba but not one of them disclosed that they had been raped. They were in our dhaba for over two hours till such time as the cops arrived. If they had been stripped and raped, or had been lying the fields for a long period of time, they or the male members of their families should have spoken about it. Rashme Sehgal reports from Sonepat, Haryana. Murthal, located near Kamaspur chowk on the NH1 highway, has witnessed some of the worst arson, violence and blockades during the nine-day long Jat demand for reservations. Groups of demonstrators had chopped down eucalyptus and sal trees that line NH1 to stop the traffic commuting between Punjab, Haryana, Uttarkhand, Himachal and the NCR. Many of these demonstrators assembled at Kamaspur chowk to halt traffic moving between these states. Even as Jat leaders had accepted the Centres assurance on reservation for the Jats, a major flare-up occurred at Murthal in the early hours of February 22 with gangs of armed boys on motorcycles launching a major arson attack, torching cars and trucks and burning down restaurants and hotels located on both sides of NH1. It was during this arson attack that a number of women are reported to have been sexually assaulted, with their clothes being stripped and being subjected to rape. Dinesh, owner of Jai Bhagwan dhaba, whose clientele consists largely of truck drivers pointed out, Some families, including an elderly Sikh couple, had sought shelter in my dhaba. It was obvious they were terrified and had run for their lives because their car had been torched by these mobs whose numbers were well over one thousand. None of the women came here minus their clothes, but they were obviously psychologically traumatised. Recounting the chain of events, Dinesh said, Army columns moving down from Karnal and Panipat were opening up the roads and removing all the blockades. They were followed by a large number of cars which had not been able to move in the last couple of days. But once the Army and cops moved away, the demonstrators recollected at Kamaspur chowk and created a fresh blockade. They were joined by groups of armed hooligans on motorcycles. It was these boys who burnt down the popular Jurassic Park hotel, the administrative block of the IITM college and also damaged the Haldiram outlet. The police had to resort to lathi-charge and firing. Dinesh claims, Eight or so people came from the back side of the dhaba where our water tanks are located. It was pitch dark and they begged us to provide them with shelter inside the dhaba. They told us that goons had set their vehicles ablaze. Three of them were elderly people. My workers, my father and I reassured them and brought them inside. Some others took shelter at the adjacent Amrik Sukhdev dhaba. A Haryana DSP came at 5 am the next morning and arranged for a local Haryana Highway bus to take them away. The owner of Amrik Sukhdev dhaba refuses to talk to journalists. He claims he has been besieged by the press for the last three days and he does not want to court any more controversy. His manager, Anirudh Anand, who commutes to his workplace on a daily basis from Karnal, admits, Some men and women did seek shelter in our dhaba but not one of them disclosed that they had been raped. They were in our dhaba for over two hours till such time as the cops arrived. If they had been stripped and raped, or had been lying the fields for a long period of time, they or the male members of their families should have spoken about it. Anand, a middle-aged man with a prominent sandalwood tikka on his forehead, admits, None of our staffers had taken down their names or other contact details. All the lights in this area had been switched off. We had been suspecting trouble and so, at our request, over 250 men and women from the neighbouring Jat-dominated villages of Hassanpur and Kurad had assembled outside our dhabas and did not allow these goons to torch our place. If something like this had happened, we would have been in the know, Anand claims. There is no doubt that around 12 vehicles were torched in the proximity of these two dhabas and that their occupants had run for their lives into the neighbouring fields. A visit to the nearby village of Hassanpur saw the entire Jat community vehemently deny claims of rape. Farmer Meher Singh, one of the village elders, said, This alleged incident has given our village a very bad reputation. Many of our village folk spent the night outside those dhabas for a good one week. We did so because Amrik Sukhdev dhaba was built almost 60 years ago and their owners have maintained a bhaichara (brotherhood) with all of us. When trouble started in Haryana, the owners of these two dhabas came to us with folded hands and sought our help, and we felt we must show insaniyat (humanity). Sarpanch Narayan of Hassanpur also cited how their village had allowed 14 trucks to be parked inside Hassanpur during the danga (rioting) period. We fed the drivers of these trucks and ensured their safety. We were running a langar from a village school to help those in distress. My question is, how come no minister, no MP, no MLA reached out to the pubic during these horrific eight days, said Narayan. He added, All these goons came on motorbikes. We suspect many of them belong to the Guhana area. Many of them were armed. Someone must have spent a lot of money on giving them weapons, petrol to run their vehicles and petrol bombs to burn these vehicles. They would not be doing this on their own. Which is why we believe that this is a saazish (conspiracy). Villagers in Kurad cite how according to the local police, seven boys that were killed in police firing belonged to the SC, Brahmin, Muslim and Saini castes and were not Jats. Have these villagers created a wall of silence around the rapes? Have the police succeeded in persuading the victims not to speak out? Local villagers insist the undergarments that have been found in the fields belong to the Ladi-Gohar community. The Punjab and Haryana high court has ordered the Haryana police to look into the event. Director General of Police Yashpal Singhal has set up a three-member women police committee with DIG Rajshree Singh and DSOs Bharti Dabas and Surinder Kaur to look into this issue, but they have made little headway. The Haryana cops plan to get in touch with the people whose cars have got torched in Murthal. We have alerted the police thanas. They will have to file FIRs to claim insurance. And if indeed an incident has taken place, we will get to the bottom of it, said one senior officer. A team of All India Democratic Womens Association activists led by general secretary Jagmati Sangwan has also visited Murthal. She pointed out, The families that were targeted were those who were passing through Murthal to attend marriages or visiting relatives in other states. Such families were in a particularly vulnerable situation because of lack of local information and any support structure. It must be noted that Murthal was the only place in Haryana during the entire duration of the agitation where the police stepped in to provide transportation to the stranded travellers to ensure their exit. This fact raises further suspicion regarding the extent of the danger and seriousness of the law and order situation which appears to be beyond what is reported by the police. Sangwan is adamant that the cops have discouraged the victims of sexual assault to file formal complaints especially as it could bring dishonour to their families. The National Commission of Women chairperson Rekha Sharma also visited Murthal on Friday. A team from the Forensic Science Laboratory has also visited the town to find out the veracity of the rape incident. Speaking to this reporter, Sonepat SP Abhishek Gar said, The clothes collected by the FSL are being checked out. Let us see what they reveal. Meanwhile, a besieged state government has set up helpdesks at Sonepat, Gohana, Gannaur and Kharkhoda to help the rape victims speak out against the outrage. But locals in this town also point out that most of the damage, including the torching of Jurrasic Park, was done to properties belonging to the Punjabi community to which the chief minister belongs. Security Council extends UN Guinea-Bissau office for another year Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 26 February 2016 Cite as UN News Service, Security Council extends UN Guinea-Bissau office for another year, 26 February 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/56d3ef5f40c.html [accessed 22 October 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. 26 February 2016 - The United Nations Security Council today extended the mandate of the UN Integrated Peace-Building Office in Guinea-Bissau, known as UNIOGBIS, for an additional 12 months so that it can continue to assist the country in its path towards peace and reform. Under its renewed mandate, which will begin on 1 March 2016 until 28 February 2017, UNIOGBIS will continue to focus on supporting an inclusive political dialogue and national reconciliation process to strengthen democratic governance and work towards consensus on key political issues, particularly with regards to the implementation of necessary urgent reforms. The Office will also focus on providing strategic and technical advice and support in implementing the national security sector reform and rule of law strategies, as well as developing civilian and military justice systems that are compliant with international standards. In 2014, the West African nation concluded a second round of presidential elections, which are widely seen as essential to restoring constitutional order, economic growth and development following a 2012 military coup. Nevertheless, in a recent briefing to the Security Council, Miguel Trovoada, Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Guinea-Bissau and Head of UNIOGBIS, warned that the political impasse in Guinea-Bissau could delay implementation of critical reforms and erode progress in the country's development. In today's resolution, the Council stressed the need for the Government of Guinea-Bissau to continue to take concrete steps towards peace, security and stability in the country, by effectively reforming the security sector, tackling corruption, and improving public administration and the supply of basic services to the population. The Council also expressed concerns over the ongoing political and institutional tensions among the President, the Prime Minister, the Speaker of Parliament and heads of political parties. It called upon the leaders to work together to consolidate progress made so far, and to address the root causes of instability, with particular attention to political-military dynamics, ineffective state institutions and rule of law, impunity and human rights violations and abuses, poverty and lack of access to basic services. In addition, in the resolution the Council reiterated its concern at the threat posed by drug trafficking to the country's peace and stability, and welcomed efforts in combating the issue. The Council also decided to review, seven months from now, the sanctions measures established under resolution 2048 (2012). Previously, the Council has expressed its readiness to consider targeted sanctions against those involved in the coup if the situation in Guinea-Bissau is not resolved. UN Security Council endorses cessation of hostilities pact in Syria Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 26 February 2016 Cite as UN News Service, UN Security Council endorses cessation of hostilities pact in Syria, 26 February 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/56d3efb040c.html [accessed 22 October 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. 26 February 2016 - The United Nations Security Council has unanimously endorsed the agreement negotiated by Russia and the United States on a cessation of hostilities in Syria set to take effect at midnight Damascus time which Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed as our best chance to end the brutal violence in the country after five years of war. Adopting a new resolution, the Council endorsed the joint statement announced on Monday by US Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, as co-chairs of the International Syria Support Group (ISSG) Ceasefire Taskforce, on the terms of a nationwide cessation of hostilities and demanded that the agreement take effect at midnight Damascus time. In a statement issued later in the evening by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban said full implementation of the resolution including unimpeded and sustainable humanitarian deliveries is the best chance to reduce the brutal violence in Syria. What matters now are not the words of the resolution but whether it will make real changes on the ground and reduce the suffering of the Syrian people," he said, adding that implementation of the Council measure would also create space and the credibility for the UN Special Envoy for Syria to relaunch political negotiations over transition in accordance with the 2012 Geneva Communique and Council resolution 2254 (2015). The Security Council also demanded the full and immediate implementation of that text in order to facilitate a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition in order to end the conflict in the country, stressing once again that the nation's people will decide the future of Syria. Resolution 2254, unanimously adopted in December, gave the UN an enhanced role in shepherding the opposing sides to talks for a political transition, endorsing a timetable for a ceasefire, a new constitution and elections. Briefing the Council before the vote, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, Staffan de Mistura, said the cessation of hostilities was the result of lengthy and detailed discussions and the outcome of intense negotiations at the highest level. Speaking via videoconference from Geneva, he added that it was a major achievement. Much work for the implementation of the agreement lay ahead, he continued, stressing that Saturday would be a critical day and warning that there would be no shortage of attempts to undermine the process under way. The international community must work fast to address any incidents that may arise, while all parties must demonstrate restraint. "We are now at a crossroads we have the possibility to turn the page [in Syria] after almost 5 years of one of the bloodiest conflicts in recent years. It is potentially, a historic junction to bring an end to the killing and destruction and to start a new life and new hope for the Syrians," he told the Council. Mr. de Mistura announced that, provided the cessation of hostilities held and humanitarian access was kept open, he intended to reconvene the intra-Syrian talks with with representatives of the Syrian Government and opposition, in Geneva on Monday, 7 March. The Special Envoy had been mediating those talks, but just two days after their official launch called for a pause on 3 February following differences between Government and opposition delegations on the priority of humanitarian issues. In today's text, the Council also demanded that all parties involved in the cessation of hostilities fulfil their commitments, and urged all Member States, especially ISSG members the Arab League, the European Union, the United Nations, and 17 countries, including the United States and Russia, who have been seeking a path forward for several months to use their influence with the parties to ensure fulfilment of those commitments and support efforts to create conditions for a durable and lasting ceasefire. The Council also reiterated its call to the parties to immediately allow humanitarian agencies rapid, safe and unhindered access throughout Syria by most direct routes, and to immediately comply with their obligations under international law. Expressing support for the ISSG initiative to accelerate the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid, with the view towards full, sustained and unimpeded access throughout the country, the Council also reaffirmed its support for a Syrian-led political process facilitated by the UN. In the resolution, the Council also welcomed the cessation of hostilities as a step towards a lasting ceasefire, reaffirming the close linkage between a ceasefire and a parallel political process, and that both initiatives should move ahead expeditiously as expressed in resolution 2254. South Sudan: UN deputy humanitarian chief calls for end to civilian suffering Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 26 February 2016 Cite as UN News Service, South Sudan: UN deputy humanitarian chief calls for end to civilian suffering, 26 February 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/56d3f05340d.html [accessed 22 October 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. 26 February 2016 - The United Nations deputy humanitarian chief today called on all parties to the conflict in South Sudan to protect civilians and grant safe and unhindered humanitarian access as she wrapped up a two-day visit to the African country. Kyung-wha Kang, Assistant Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Deputy Emergency Relief Coordinator, accompanied UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on the visit to South Sudan, where they met Government officials and visited communities affected by the conflict. During her mission, Ms. Kang also met humanitarian partners and the diplomatic community and visited Malakal, where she witnessed the devastating impact of the armed violence that took place on 17 and 18 February in the UN protection of civilians site. I am outraged by what I have seen in Malakal, she said, noting that civilians who had sought safety at the site have been attacked, killed, traumatised and displaced once more, with the entire site, including medical clinics and schools, completely and systematically burnt down and destroyed. Those responsible for these heinous acts must be held to account, she said. The two-year conflict in South Sudan has taken a brutal and deadly toll on civilians. Recently, fighting has spread to new areas, including in Wau and Mundri, and there continue to be reports of people being raped and killed, and of homes and crops being destroyed and damaged by fighting. Despite the peace agreement, civilians in the country continue to face destitution, destruction, death and devastation, and the humanitarian needs continue to grow, said Ms. Kang, calling for an end to the fighting, the protection of people caught in the middle, and immediate and unhindered access for humanitarian actors to all those in need. Ms. Kang appealed to the international community to act immediately to avert an even greater tragedy in South Sudan, as humanitarian needs are higher now than ever. The South Sudan Humanitarian Response Plan for 2016 is currently only 6.5 per cent funded, including the $21 million of Central Emergency Response Fund allocation announced by the Secretary-General in Juba on 25 February, leaving a gap of nearly $1.21 billion. Some $220 million is needed without delay to ensure that vital supplies can be procured and delivered during the dry season, before nearly 60 per cent of the country is again unreachable by road. Ban urges countries along Balkan route into Western Europe to keep borders open Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 26 February 2016 Cite as UN News Service, Ban urges countries along Balkan route into Western Europe to keep borders open, 26 February 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/56d3f08b40c.html [accessed 22 October 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. 26 February 2016 - Concerned with the increasing number of border restrictions along the Balkan land route, including in Austria, Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia and the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, United Nations Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon today called on the countries to keep their borders open in a spirit of responsibility sharing and solidarity. Such border restrictions are not in line with the 1951 Convention Relating to the Status of Refugees and its 1967 protocol because individual determination of refugee status and assessment of individual protection needs are not made possible, said a statement issued by Mr. Ban's spokesperson. The Secretary-General noted that the number of asylum seekers entering Greece from Turkey continues unabated, and that the border closures are creating a difficult situation in Greece. Meanwhile, Turkey is already hosting in excess of 2.6 million refugees and asylum seekers. [Mr. Ban] is fully aware of the pressures felt by many European countries. However, he calls on all countries to keep their borders open, and to act in a spirit of responsibility sharing and solidarity, including through expanding legal pathways to access asylum, said the statement. The UN chief recalled that the vast majority of refugees are hosted by developing countries and stressed the need for responsibility sharing at the global level, which, he noted will be one of the key issues at the UN General Assembly's Summit on large movements of refugees and migrants, to be held on 19 September in New York. The Secretary-General's call comes after a similar expression of concern voiced yesterday by UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, who urged the five countries that adopted the measures to carefully recalibrate the approach of their police forces, and emphasized that the measures are exacerbating the chaos and misery all down the line, and especially in Greece, which is already overwhelmed. UN rights expert urges Russia not to implement new extradition treaty with DRP Korea Publisher UN News Service Publication Date 26 February 2016 Cite as UN News Service, UN rights expert urges Russia not to implement new extradition treaty with DRP Korea, 26 February 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/56d3f0e940b.html [accessed 22 October 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. 26 February 2016 - A United Nations rights expert today urged the Government of the Russian Federation not to implement an extradition treaty signed with the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) earlier this month. I am alarmed by the new extradition treaty signed between the DPRK and the Russian Federation on 2 February 2016. The treaty calls for transferring and readmitting individuals 'who have illegally' left their country and stay 'illegally' in another's territory, said Marzuki Darusman, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the DPRK, in a press release. There are an estimated 10,000 regular labourers from DPRK in Russia, some of whom stay in the country after their contracts have expired in order to seek asylum. Others fleeing the DPRK try to reach Russia through other countries, Mr. Darusman said. The Special Rapporteur noted that in November 2015, Russia signed a separate extradition treaty with the DPRK, calling for mutual assistance in criminal matters. I am concerned that the latest treaty is much broader in scope and may lead to forced repatriation to the DPRK of individuals at risk of human rights violations, in contravention of Russia's international obligations, he said. Given the practice of the DPRK to send labourers to Russia, who often work in slave-like conditions, Mr. Darusman said, it is feared that such a treaty could also be used to capture and repatriate workers who attempt to seek asylum. In fact, the practice of sending workers abroad to be exploited may constitute state-sponsored enslavement of human beings, possibly amounting to a specific category of crime against humanity, he emphasized. The UN Commission of Inquiry on human rights in the DPRK, in its 2014 report, found that persons who are forcibly repatriated to the DPRK are commonly subjected to torture, arbitrary detention, summary execution, forced abortions and other sexual violence. At the time, the Commission called on countries to respect the principle of non-refoulement and abstain from forcibly repatriating any persons to the DPRK. I also note that the signing of the treaty took place against the context where the DPRK continues to commit deliberate belligerent acts, such as nuclear testing followed by the latest missile launch. Such acts adversely impact on the constructive efforts to address the ongoing gross human rights violations in the country, and reinforce even further the international community's resolve to pursue political and legal accountability, Mr. Darusman said. I strongly urge Russia to respect the principle of non-refoulement and not to implement the treaty, he added. Uganda: Violations against opposition party impeding its efforts to contest election outcome Publisher Amnesty International Publication Date 26 February 2016 Cite as Amnesty International, Uganda: Violations against opposition party impeding its efforts to contest election outcome, 26 February 2016, available at: https://www.refworld.org/docid/56d3f2554.html [accessed 22 October 2022] Disclaimer This is not a UNHCR publication. UNHCR is not responsible for, nor does it necessarily endorse, its content. Any views expressed are solely those of the author or publisher and do not necessarily reflect those of UNHCR, the United Nations or its Member States. The Ugandan government is continuing to violate the human rights of leaders of the opposition Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) and undermining the ability of their party to legally challenge the results of the 18 February elections, said Amnesty International in a statement, as the 10-day deadline for filing presidential election petitions looms. Security forces have repeatedly arrested the aggrieved presidential candidate Dr Kizza Besigye, and some of his party leadership colleagues and supporters. They have also besieged his home, and raided the party's main office in the capital Kampala. "The FDC has a legal right to challenge the election results and it must be allowed to do so," said Sarah Jackson, Amnesty International's Deputy Director for East Africa, the Horn and the Great Lakes. "It is unacceptable for the government to stifle a lawfully-registered party from pursuing the only legal recourse available for it to contest the electoral outcome." Since the results were announced, Dr Besigye has been detained without charge at police stations or at his home in Kasangati, near Kampala His first post-election arrest was on 22 February, as he attempted to leave his home the day after he had suggested in a televised speech that he would challenge the outcome of the election in the Supreme Court. "These arbitrary arrests are an affront to Dr Besigye's right to freedom of movement and a clear sign of the prevailing climate of impunity and disregard for rule of law in Uganda," said Sarah Jackson. The Ugandan government must fully and effectively respect its own constitution, and honour its voluntary international obligations to protect every Ugandan's human rights, including to freedom of movement, freedom of expression, and freedom of peaceful assembly". Background On 20 February, the Electoral Commission declared incumbent President Yoweri Museveni winner of the presidential election with 60.75% of the vote as opposed to Besigye's 35.37%, an outcome Dr Besigye dismissed as fraudulent. The election took place amidst a government-ordered social media shutdown that according to European Union (EU) election observers "unreasonably constrained freedom of expression and access to information". According to the police, Dr Besigye's continued arrest was made under powers of "preventive arrest" for "utterances and activities that amount to incitement to violence and defiance of the law". Amnesty International has examined Dr Besigye's televised remarks and does not consider him to have incited violence. FDC headquarters were raided by police on 19 February, while elections were ongoing in parts of Kampala. Witnesses interviewed by Amnesty International said police officers fired tear gas canisters at crowds gathered at the scene. Copyright notice: Copyright Amnesty International What you need to know about Powerball and the $580 million jackpot COLLEGE STATION Most of the state has been drier than normal by 1 inch to 3 inches for the last 30 days, according to the National Weather Service. So what happened to the wetter-than-normal winter predicted because of El Nino? "It all depends upon what time period you are looking at," said Dr. John Nielsen-Gammon, state climatologist and Regents Professor at Texas A&M University in College Station. "It's been fairly dry since the beginning of 2016, but from October through December, we were generally quite wet." In fact, Nielsen-Gammon said, the October through December period was wet enough to bring the average rainfall total several inches above the average for strong El Ninos of the past. "While we've had a dry winter, the combined fall and winter have been wetter than normal," he said. "Typically, you get one or two dry months within an El Nino. There's no guarantee the whole thing is going to be wetter than average. A lot is going to depend upon the weather from day to day or week to week." Nielsen-Gammon said the current El Nino remains strong, with no sign it's going to weaken until spring or summer. Also, many areas had rain the last week of February. "I believe we're just going through a temporary dry stretch that is soon going to be coming to an end, particularly in western Texas over the next couple of weeks," he said. There have been some reports that the current El Nino actually is strengthening, but it depends upon what metric is used, Nielsen-Gammon noted. "It's gotten a little bit stronger in some ways and weaker in others. It's basically just holding its own right now." But there are signs of the coming demise of this El Nino, he said. "There's a lot of cold water close to the surface in the western tropical Pacific Ocean that is going to be moving eastward over the next couple of months," Nielsen-Gammon said. "Hopefully, the cold water won't take over and turn into a La Nina by next winter, because that would mean a dry year next year." Texas A&M AgriLife Extension District reports West Central: The region had unseasonably warm, dry, windy daytime conditions with cold nights. The potential for wildfire remained high. Small grains and other forages needed rain to boost growth. Winter wheat somewhat declined due to low topsoil moisture, but still was generally in good condition. Producers were preparing fields for planting spring crops. Rangeland and pasture conditions improved. Some warm-season grasses broke dormancy due to above-normal temperatures. Livestock remained in fair-to-good condition. Ranchers were supplementing cattle with protein cubes and hay. Cattle prices dropped somewhat. Some trees were budding. Rolling Plains: Conditions morphed from those of a wet, cool winter to a hot, dry winter in a matter of weeks. Warm weather coupled with plenty of sunshine dried out pastures, rangeland and winter wheat. Topsoil moisture steeply declined, and the threat of wildfires rose. Some commissioners' courts were reviewing enacting burn bans. With temperatures reaching the high 80s, winter forages and wheat were beginning to show signs of stress. Some wheat producers were sparingly topdressing fertilizer and applying weed controls. Lakes and stock-water tanks remained in good shape. South Plains: Cochran County producers were preparing for spring planting. Soil moisture dropped due to warmer temperatures and high winds. Pasture and rangeland were in good condition but needed rain. Winter wheat continued to progress. In Floyd County, warmer temperatures stimulated winter wheat growth. The crop looked good thanks to adequate subsoil moisture from earlier snows. It could use more moisture over the next few weeks to keep growing. Hockley County producers were also preparing fields for spring planting. Lubbock County had highs in the mid-80s. Trees began to break dormancy and were budding. Field activities included cutting stalks, shaping beds and some disking. Area wheat fields responded favorably to the moisture and warm weather. In Swisher County, continued windy, dry weather worried farmers who were still making planting decisions. Wildfire broke out in several Conservation Reserve Program fields. 2016 TEXAS AUTHORS SERIES The 2016 Texas Author Series, sponsored by Friends of the Abilene Public Library and the West Texas Book Festival, will be presented at noon on four Mondays March 7 and 28, April 11 and 25. Dr. Tom Hutton kicks off the series on March 7 with a talk about his acclaimed collection of stories, "Carrying the Black Bag: A Neurologist's Bedside Tales." Hutton taught at the Texas Tech School of Medicine before retiring to his ranch near Fredericksburg. The brown bag sessions in the series are free and are held on the second floor of the downtown library, 202 Cedar St. An optional light lunch is available at 11:45 for $5 or you may bring your own. Drinks are provided. Books by the featured authors will be available for purchase, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the library. HOW DINOSAURS SAY GOODNIGHT June 9-11 is the weekend when downtown Abilene will be transformed into a childhood adventure featuring the work of best-selling author and illustrator Mark Teague in the fifth annual Children's Art and Literature Festival. Teague is creator of the "How Do Dinosaurs Say I Love You?" book series The downtown festival will offer a parade, costumed characters, dramatic readings, make and take art activities, magic shows, balloons games, and much more! The registration page and website for the event are now open. At least 4,000 people are expected to register across Texas and from other states. Early bird prices are good until May 15. However, the Write & Illustrate Your Own Storybook and Digital Character Creation workshops are expected to fill up before the early deadline. Register at www.abilenecalf.com. The C.A.L.F. is sponsored by the Abilene Cultural Affairs Council, an affiliate of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce dedicated to promoting the arts in Abilene. STUDENT ART MONTH AND EXHIBITS The Grace Museum, 102 Cypress St., celebrates the talent of area student artists throughout the month of March. The exhibit will feature more than 800 original artworks representing students from the Abilene Independent School District, Wylie Independent School District and schools of Region 14. Youth Art Month has been celebrated nationwide each March since 1961, and was created to express support for art educators and emphasize the importance of quality art programs in schools. This year's student artworks will fill the Second Floor galleries of The Grace Museum. The exhibit will be on view through March 22. OPERA ON THE BIG SCREEN The 10th season of "The Met: Live in HD," the Metropolitan Opera's popular Peabody and Emmy Award-winning series of live transmissions in movie theaters around the world, continues Saturday with a new Metropolitan Opera production of Puccini's "Manon Lescaut." This performance will be at 11:55 a.m. on the big screen at Century 12, 3818 John Knox Drive. An encore performance is set for 6:30 p.m. March 9. Mail information to Jan Woodward in care of "Around Town," Abilene Reporter-News, P.O. Box 30, Abilene, TX 79604. Email address is jan.woodward@reporternews.com or fax information to 325-670-5242. Deadline for submission is noon seven working days before publication. What a difference a year makes. On Feb. 28, 2015, the afternoon high was 26 degrees and the low 19. Add nearly 50 degrees to that and you'll have this year's high of 72 degrees. Add a few more and you'll get Monday's predicted high of 79 degrees. "Looks like beautiful weather," said Carl Wright, a meteorologist at the National Weather Service office in San Angelo. He added that a weak cold front will push through the area Tuesday. Monday night's low of 53 degrees will give way to Tuesday's low of 39 after high in the 60s. "But then warming right back up again," Wright said. "Wednesday will be 73 degrees, then 70 on Thursday, 72 on Friday, and all sunny skies." That will set up the weekend for more pleasant weather. At this point highs are expected to be in the mid-70s and lows around 50. This is been a warm February, with only five low readings reaching freezing, and just three of those below 30 degrees. In contrast, two morning lows were 60 degrees and twice the temperature hit 83 degrees. For the next week, rain chances are low but Wright said there is a possibility of something affecting the area by the middle of next week. But with that so far out, it's difficult to say whether the upper level system coming from southern California will make it to West Texas. "This far out, it's hard to peg where that upper level system is going to travel," Wright explained. "But between now and then, it looks like very beautiful weather," he continued. "Abnormal weather as far as temperatures go; normal for this time of year is 64 for an afternoon high and a normal low is around 40." Leap year day comes every four years and the last time around Feb. 29, 2012 it was dry with the high at 74 degrees and the low 46. Overall, the record high for this date is 89 degrees in 1940, while the record low was 20 degrees in 1960. Five-day forecast for Abilene Monday: Sunny, high of 79 degrees with a 5-15 mph east wind turning south in the afternoon. Overnight, partly cloudy with a low of 53 and a 10-15 mph south wind turning west after midnight, gusting to 25 mph. Tuesday: Sunny, high of 65 with a 10-15 mph west wind turning north at 15-20 mph in the morning, gusting to 30. Overnight, mostly clear with a low of 38 and a north wind at 5-15 mph turning south southwest after midnight. Wednesday: Sunny, high of 74, south-southwest wind at 10-15 mph increasing to 15-20 mph in the afternoon, gusting to 30. Overnight, mostly clear with a low of 50 and a south-southwest 15 mph wind turning south after midnight, gusting to 25. Thursday: Sunny, high of 70, west-northwest 15 mph wind turning north in the afternoon, gusting to 25. Overnight, mostly clear with a low of 41 and a 5-10 mph north wind turning east-southeast after midnight. Friday: Sunny, high of 72 degrees. Overnight, mostly clear with a low of 50 degrees. Advertisement - Continue Reading Below This just in... Cambodias government is suppressing information connected with an outbreak of HIV infections in the countrys southeastern Kandal province and must reveal what it knows in order to prevent a further spread of the disease, an opposition party lawmaker said on Monday. If we dont know the reasons for the outbreak, we cant prevent it [from spreading], Ke Sovannaroth, a Cambodia National Rescue Party (CNRP) member and chair of the National Assemblys social affairs commission, told RFAs Khmer Service on Feb. 29. Speaking to RFA, Ke Sovannaroth said she had sent a letter on Feb. 25 to National Assembly president Heng Samrin, asking that he forward it to Minister of Health Mam Bunheng with a request that he provide detailed information on the outbreaks cause. The Ministry of Health is concealing what it knows about the outbreak, and this will have negative consequences for peoples health, she said. [They] cant hide this information, she said. We must seek the truth of the matter to prevent [further infections]. Though Heng Samrin has acknowledged receipt of the letter, she does not know if he has passed it on, and no further reply has been received, she said. Health Ministry spokesman Ly Sovann did not respond to RFA requests for comment on Monday. 18 now infected At least 18 people from Cambodias Kandal province are now confirmed to have contracted the HIV virus, causing health officials to launch an investigation to determine the extent and cause of the infection, according to government officials and villagers. The cluster of cases in Muk Kampoul districts Peam village marks the largest reported HIV infection in Cambodia since hundreds of people in Battambangs Roka commune were infected by an unlicensed doctor using unsterilized equipment. While government officials told RFA in earlier reports that they had yet to isolate the cause of the outbreak in Kandal, villagers said they believe that they too have been infected by a local doctor, Sok Thorn, at a nearby hospital or at his private practice in Muk Kampoul. Sok Thorn has rejected the allegation that the hospital or his private practice had anything to do with the infections, saying his employees are trained to follow proper protocols. Reported by Khe Sonorng for RFAs Khmer Service. Translated by Samean Yun. Written in English by Richard Finney. Five Hong Kong booksellers missing since last October have appeared in television interviews, with four confessing to running an 'illegal' bookselling business, and a fifth, a British passport holder, saying he is willing to sever all ties with the UK. Causeway Bay Books store manager Lee Bo, 65, was last seen at work in Hong Kong on Dec. 30, while four of his associates, publisher Gui Minhai, general manager Lui Bo, and colleagues Cheung Chi-ping and Lam Wing-kei have gone missing since October. There is no record of Lee leaving Hong Kong, prompting fears that he was spirited across the internal immigration border by Chinese police, while Gui, who holds a Swedish passport, was apparently detained while on vacation in Thailand. Lee appeared in a recorded interview with Hong Kong-based pro-Beijing broadcaster Phoenix Television on Monday, claiming that he had deliberately "smuggled" himself across the border, for fear of reprisals from unknown quarters. "After what happened [with the bookstore], I wanted to sneak across the border to mainland China, to resolve whatever issues there were with the company and then secretly go back to Hong Kong," Lee said in the interview. Lee said he had given incriminating evidence on "some people" to Chinese police and feared reprisals if they knew he had left. "I didnt want anyone to know, and I didnt want to leave any immigration records," he said. Breach of treaty Earlier this month, Britain accused China of a "serious breach" of a 1984 bilateral treaty governing the 1997 handover of Hong Kong in its treatment of Lee. While Lee has repeatedly said through his wife that he is assisting in an investigation at an unknown location in mainland China, there are fears that all of the men are being manipulated by police to avoid harsher reprisals. Phoenix TV had earlier aired interviews with Gui, Lui, Cheung, and Lam on Sunday, in which they also admitted to the alleged offenses. "I have reflected deeply on what I have done, and I very much regret the illegal book sales I made, along with Gui Minhai," Lui said. All four "confessed" to selling around 4,000 unauthorized books to 380 customers in mainland China, using an online bookstore, since October 2014. Gui was the alleged mastermind of the scheme, which included wrapping the books in special covers to disguise them from customs inspectors, the report said. It was unclear whether the authorities intend to pursue charges linked to a fatal drunk-driving incident more than a decade ago, to which Gui has previously "confessed" on Chinese state television. The report said that Lui, Cheung and Lee were detained in Shenzhen and Dongguan, side-stepping concerns that they may have been illegally taken from Hong Kong by representatives of the Chinese government. 'Bad influence' Lam said the books published by the group were "fabricated," and nothing but a compilation of online sources and magazine articles. "They have given rise to many rumors and had a bad influence on society... I admit to my mistakes and am willing to pay the price," he told the TV station. The Phoenix TV report said Lui, Lam and Cheung had shown a cooperative attitude in their confessions and could be released on bail soon. But Hong Kong activist Richard Choi, of the Alliance in Support of the Patriotic Democratic Movement in China, said the Phoenix TV interviews had done little to allay fears for the five booksellers' well-being. "We are extremely concerned about Gui Minhai and the others," Choi said. "We still know nothing about their actual situation, whether they are being held under criminal detention, and at what location." Choi said the media footage of the men doesn't prove that they really did commit the crimes described in the report. "[This could] all have been dictated to them by the authorities," he said. "In my view, their rights have been completely violated, and I believe they have no lawyers to represent them." Forbidden books Choi said the Alliance doesn't accept the accounts of the men's activities given in the Phoenix TV report. "None of this is in keeping with legal principles, and the mainland authorities are breaking even their own laws," he said. Hong Kong was promised a high degree of autonomy in the Joint Declaration and its miniconstitution, the Basic Law, along with the maintenance of separate law enforcement, immigration and judicial systems, as well as freedom of expression and association for 50 years after the handover. But the Causeway Bay Books "disappearances" have fueled concerns that the ruling Chinese Communist Party is already extending its political influence far across the internal border. Political commentators say that Beijing is targeting what it sees as a thriving industry in "forbidden books" emanating from Hong Kong, fueled by strong demand for political gossip in the tightly controlled mainland market. One insider who declined to be named said the case has sent shock waves through the city's once-freewheeling publishing industry, which is now reeling under a chilling effect. "The thing we fear most is a lack of freedom to speak out," the source said. "It would be great to stand up and speak out on behalf of Hong Kong people, but that doesn't solve the problem of the government." Reported by Wen Yuqing for RFA's Cantonese Service, and by Xin Lin for the Mandarin Service. Translated and written in English by Luisetta Mudie. Authorities in the eastern Chinese province of Zhejiang have formally detained a prominent human rights lawyer on social order and national security charges after he helped Protestant churches in the region dispute the removal of their roof-top crosses. Zhang Kai's initial period of detention in an unknown location under "residential surveillance" reached the end of its six-month limit last week, and the lawyer was immediately held instead under criminal detention on suspicion of "disturbing public order" and "endangering state secrets," a fellow lawyer told RFA. "The news we have today is that he has now been criminally detained," rights lawyer Wu Kouming, who is following Zhang's case closely, said in an interview on Sunday. "This is in line with our expectation." Wu said the authorities were unlikely to release Zhang on bail, in spite of his televised "confession" last week, in the current political climate. "The targeting of churches and their pastors is a really big thing right now," he said. "I don't think that Zhang's case will be different from those of the other human rights lawyers." "I am not optimistic about this case," he said. Chinese media aired footage of Zhang last Friday "confessing" to the charges, and accused U.S.-based Christian rights group ChinaAid of supporting him. ChinaAid said it would ignore the claim. "Although China Aid was mentioned in the shameful Communist Party of Chinas official propaganda in the broadcast as the 'overseas force supporting Zhang Kais legal defense work,' we will never be intimidated or cease to continue to promote religious freedom for all in China," ChinaAid president Bob Fu said in a statement on the group's website. Confession was forced Meanwhile, State Department spokesman Mark Toner expressed deep concern Friday over the ruling Chinese Communist Party's treatment of Zhang, who was detained in August, a day before he was due to meet a U.S. religious freedom envoy. Zhang was initially detained on Aug. 25 after police climbed the walls of Xialing Church where he and two assistants were working to defend local churches from forced cross demolitions. According to ChinaAid, he has been refused permission to receive visits from family, lawyers and friends, which is permitted in Chinese law in cases involving state security. Shandong-based pastor Zhan Gang, deputy director of the Protestant Chinese House Church Alliance, said he believes Zhang's "confession" was forced from him by the authorities. "I saw the footage of him confessing, and there are clearly parts of it that appear to be forced or [where he appears to be] under duress," Zhan said, adding that he is worried about Zhang's well-being. "He looked much older and thinner in the video ... and he seemed to be reading his confession from some kind of official script," he said. "There's no way that these were his own words." Zhan said Zhang's involvement in Zhejiang had nothing to do with any "overseas forces." "I have known Zhang a long time ... and his faith is very strong," he said. "It's perfectly normal ... for Christians and the leaders of house churches, who are one body, to have contact with their overseas counterparts." "This claim that they were getting together with overseas organizations to oppose the government is nothing but a trumped-up charge," Zhan said. Zhang's lawyer Tan Chenshou said he had been unable to confirm his client's station or location in inquiries made to the police department last Friday in Zhejiang's Wenzhou city, known colloquially as "China's Jerusalem." "We lawyers haven't seen any of the case files yet," Tan said. "So we have no way of confirming or denying the claims made in the video footage." Crackdown on churches Zhang's formal detention comes amid a province-wide crackdown on churches and an urban "improvement" campaign which has seen crosses removed from dozens of buildings. Last week, Zhejiang Protestant pastors and married couple Bao Guohua and Xing Wenxiang of the Holy Love Christian church were sentenced to 14 and 12 years' imprisonment respectively by the Wucheng District People's Court in Zhejiang's Jinhua city. They were both found guilty of "encroachment," "running an illegal business," "disturbing public order," and "concealing financial records," their congregants told RFA. The sentences came after the authorities detained at least 16 pastors and other church members in and around Zhejiang's Wenzhou city during confrontations with the authorities over a long-running cross removal program in the province. China is home to an estimated 60 million Protestant Christians, some 23 million of whom are members of the government-backed Three-Self Patriotic Movement, as required by the ruling Chinese Communist Party. Chinese religious believers may practice only five officially recognized religions, and only in officially approved religious premises. The ruling Chinese Communist Party oversees every aspect of religious life, including organizations' activities, employee details, and financial records. It also appoints religious personnel, and vets religious publications and seminary applications, the New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) said in its 2016 annual report. Last year, Zhejiang authorities launched a regional campaign targeting visible church crosses for demolition as "illegal structures" in the name of civic pride. But HRW cited an internal provincial directive as saying that the campaign is designed to reduce the prominence of Christianity in the region. Reported by Xin Lin for RFA's Mandarin Service, and by Hai Nan for the Cantonese Service. Translated and written in English by Luisetta Mudie. China has shuttered the social media accounts of property mogul and celebrity blogger Ren Zhiqiang after he repeatedly criticized the country's president, Xi Jinping, saying he had been spreading "illegal information." The Cyberspace Administration of China on Sunday said Ren's accounts on Twitter-like services Sina Weibo and Tencent Weibo were closed in accordance with recent guidance on "safeguarding Internet security" in line with a recently passed National Security Law, official media reported. Ren's Sina Weibo verified account had 37 million followers. "Cyberspace is not a lawless field and it should not be used to spread illegal information by anyone," China Radio International (CRI) quoted spokesman Jiang Jun as saying. Jiang said Ren's accounts were closed following tip-offs from other Internet users that he had regularly posted illegal information, "resulting in a vile influence," it said. He warned Internet service providers and users that they should step up their awareness of acceptable content, saying that celebrity "Big V" bloggers should "use their influence correctly, exemplify in observing laws, shoulder their due social responsibilities, and promote positive energy," the report said. He also warned that China's law enforcement agencies are stepping up their monitoring of online information and content and will be able to prevent those users whose accounts have been closed from reregistering in another name. Party loyalty questioned The Global Times newspaper, which has close ties to the ruling Chinese Communist Party, said Ren had got what was coming to him. "Ren has spoken out this way for a while, benefiting from the fame it brings but taking no responsibilities," the paper said in a recent editorial. "He gained over 33 million followers on Weibo, attracted widespread attention and triggered numerous heated debates in the public discourse," it said. "As a party member, Ren should have insisted on ... the leadership of the Chinese Communist Party," it said. A friend of Ren's who asked to remain anonymous told RFA on Monday that the move appears to be linked to a high-profile visit to top state media outlets by President Xi on Feb. 19, in which he called for unswerving loyalty to the ruling Chinese Communist Party in all forms of media. "Clearly, somebody has taken the initiative, sensing the way the wind is blowing, according to the usual way of thinking," the friend said. "Some people are saying that [another] Cultural Revolution is fast approaching, but I don't think that will come back again," he said in a reference to the political turmoil of 1966-1976 during which various party factions denounced and criticized people in mass "struggle sessions." "There may be some people who want to drag China back there, but I think that times have changed. We're not in the sixties and seventies now," he said. "It's not the first time that ... individuals have been singled out for criticism." Mixed reactions Netizens had mixed reaction to the news on Monday. "Once they have wiped out any form of 'extreme' comment, then even 'moderate' criticism sounds harsher on the ear, and so it then needs to be expunged in its turn," user @l77044 commented on a news story about Ren's accounts. "In time, even the most delicate euphemisms won't be acceptable." "And when all of these voices have been silenced, people will be forced into silent forms of protest, until they too are forced to sing [the party's] praises." "I guess you're just not allowed to speak the truth in China now," user @likaxineraixianao wrote. "The whole of the Internet is now sounding like CCTV [state television] news." And @biepa_shigetengni wrote: "Loose Cannon Ren must have been telling the truth, or they wouldn't have come after him." However, the post on which the users were commenting supported the closure of Ren's accounts. "Great job!," user @zhutianzi wrote. "Ren Zhiqiang had long since joined the ranks of subversive forces both overseas and in China." Chonqing-based political analyst Zhang Qi said Ren's removal from social media is the latest in a long line of attacks on freedom of expression since President Xi came to power in November 2012. "Xi Jinping has been consolidating his power since he took office, with crackdowns on freedom of speech, and using the anti-corruption campaign," Zhang said. "It also reflects the so-called world view of the 'red second generation' who grew up during the Cultural Revolution," he said, adding that the growing trend is an ominous one for China. "Throughout history, when a country starts to suppress public expression, to silence its people so that nobody dare say anything, then often a period of turbulence or ... even the collapse of the regime is on the way," Zhang said. Reported by Qiao Long for RFA's Mandarin Service. Translated and written in English by Luisetta Mudie. US Secretary of State John Kerry (L) meets with Lao Prime Minister Thongsing Thammavong at the Prime Minister's Office in Vientiane, Jan. 25, 2016. As Laos kicks off its chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, activists fear that the human rights agenda in the country and the region will get swamped by economic concerns and regional discord over issues like the partition of the South China Sea. When geopolitical interests are crucial, I am afraid that human rights and democratic values are the very first things to appear in words alone, only to be left out and not truly followed, Vanida Thepsouvanh, president of the Paris-based Lao Movement for Human Rights told RFAs Lao Service. Over the weekend ASEAN foreign ministers met in Vientiane for an agenda-setting retreat in the Lao capital. That meeting follows the organizations first meeting in the United States which Laos co-chaired earlier in February. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry also became only the third secretary of state to visit the country when he stopped for a day in January. Human rights overshadowed While the ASEAN chairmanship shines a spotlight on this landlocked, communist country of about 6.8 million people, activists fear that the attention fails to illuminate the need for human rights reforms in Laos and some of the other nine member countries. On Saturday ASEAN issued a statement that was long on defining economic goals and expressions of concern over China's moves to dominate the South China Sea, but was short on mentions of human rights. Laos does not need an ASEAN/US summit in Sunnyland [California], nor does it need to chair ASEAN to give basic human rights to the people in Laos, Vanida said. Each day is an opportunity to do it, and make it real. It is a matter of will. This political will is absent with the Lao system. Amnesty International campaigner for Cambodia, Laos, and Viet Nam Janice Beanland agreed. Take the example of community development worker Sombath Somphone, she said. Sombaths Dec. 15, 2012 abduction at a police checkpoint in Vientiane is widely believed to have been carried out by police or some other government-linked group, though authorities have consistently denied playing a role in his disappearance. The Lao authorities have steadfastly refused to investigate the enforced disappearance of Sombath Somphone and have even introduced new draconian measures to limit civil society, Beanland said. The diplomatic community must make much stronger attempts to encourage Laos to break with the past and its blatant disregard for fundamental freedoms of everyone. Laos is not alone in its disregard for civil rights as many ASEAN nations continue to ignore the need to address civil rights issues, she said. ASEAN as an organization is failing to respond to the clamor from citizens in the region to address human rights issues, she said. It is difficult to see any signs that the human rights situation is going to improve in the near future. Severe restrictions on expression, association and peaceful assembly continue to make it a blind-spot for human rights in Southeast Asia. U.S. influence The Obama administration began its pivot to Asia in 2011, and President Obama attended the meeting in Sunnyland, California. He is expected to attend the ASEAN summit in September. U.S.attention in Southeast Asia should bring a bigger emphasis on human rights, but Washington appears to be more interested in using its influence to counteract China than protecting human rights, Beanland explained. The U.S. can be a particularly influential force, but seems more preoccupied with security and pushing back against the influence of China, she said. Not everyone in the civil society community is as pessimistic about human rights changes. The spotlight that shines on the ASEAN chair and the need to open up the country to Western investment will turn the tide, a Lao expert on community development told RFA. This will be the first time for Laos to express itself to the world, said the expert, who spoke on condition of anonymity. This will have a positive impact in the long term even though there is no clear sign of support for human rights now in Laos. Reported by RFA's Lao Service. Translated by Ounkeo Sousksavanh. Written in English by Brooks Boliek. Vietnamese deputies stand up and sing the national anthem at the opening of the summer session of the National Assembly in Hanoi, May 20, 2015. More self-nominated candidates, including those not associated with the Vietnamese Communist Party, are expected to run for seats in the upcoming parliamentary elections than in past elections, despite control of the candidate selection process by the ruling Communist Party. Some non-party candidates said they have nominated themselves because they want to exercise their rights and test the truthfulness of a remark by party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong at the end of the 12th Party Congress in late January that Vietnams elections are democratic. So far, more than 20 non-party candidates have nominated themselves for seats in the National Parliament, a number that is expected to increase between now and the application deadline on March 13, according to Vietnamese social media sites. Nguyen Quang A, former director of the now-defunct Institute of Development Studies (IDS) think tank and a well-known activist in Vietnam, was the first self-nominated candidate to announce his candidacy for the upcoming 14th National Assembly. He told RFAs Vietnamese Service that he was running to exercise his rights because the countrys law stipulates that its citizens have many rights. The Vietnamese constitution states that citizens can participate in governing the country, he said. The law on National Assembly elections also states that any citizen 21 years old and over is eligible to run for a seat. I want to promote an awareness campaign among people so the young people understand their rights. The National Assembly Standing Committee, which convenes and chairs parliamentary sessions, expects that of the 500 parliamentary delegates, there could be as a many as 35 non-party members in the 14th National Assembly. It also expects the number of delegates from the central government to be 198, an increase of 15 compared to those in the current parliament, while the number of representatives from local governments to be 302. Some political experts argue that if Vietnams political regime was more open, the role of the National Assembly could be improved with the inclusion of more independent voices from delegates who are self-nominated, non-party members. But whether the ruling Communist Party will become more open toward the latest wave of self-nominated candidates is another matter. This is a test, a very interesting test that will let us see how those self-nominated candidates will be treated and how equal footing will be applied, said economist Le Dang Doanh, who is also a member of the United Nations Committee for Development Policy. I think this is a test that we will witness to see how constitutional rights are exercised. Checks and balances A report on Vietnam by the year 2035 issued last week by the World Bank and Vietnamese government stressed the importance of strengthening state accountability by ensuring checks and balances between the three branches of government and creating opportunities for citizen feedback on public service delivery, to ensure the countrys continued economic development. Although it was silent on the issue of independent candidates, the World Bank noted that no checks-and-balance system exists among the legislative, executive and judicial branches of government because of one-party rule. The elections for the13th National Assembly for the 2011-2016 term included 83 self-nominated candidates. But after the first round of consultations, only 15 were placed on the official list, of which four were elected deputies. The number of delegates who were not party members was 42, among whom just a few were self-nominated, while the rest had been nominated by the party. In the past many self-nominated candidates have been ill-treated and had their names crossed off candidate lists before elections took place, Quang A said. Nevertheless, he believes that the situation has changed because awareness among citizens, and especially young people, has grown. Lu Van Que, a representative of the Vietnamese Fatherland Front, told Tuoi Tre Online that the number of non-party members who are delegates to the current National Assembly is too low, and suggested increasing it to 100. He said the National Assembly was not an expanded party conference, and that many independent candidates are talented. At present, the country has about 4.5 million party members. The first consultative meeting on the number of candidates nominated by central agencies for the 14th National Assembly election was held in Hanoi on Feb. 16, according to a Voice of Vietnam report. The results of the meeting were sent to the National Electoral Council and National Assembly Standing Committee. Now the official nomination of candidates by central agencies is being carried out until March 10. The Nation Assembly elections will take place on May 22. Delegates, who will serve from 2016 to 2021, will select the next government. Reported by Nam Nguyen for RFAs Vietnamese Service. Translated by Viet Ha. Written in English by Roseanne Gerin. Authorities in Uzbekistan have hit a new low. A commission from Tashkent arrived at the Baraka Savdo Bazaar in Margilan recently, inspected the area, and then complained to the owners that on the premises of the bazaar there were facilities for washing. I could probably just stop here, but I suppose there are a few details worth adding. Merchants from Baraka Savdo told RFE/RLs Uzbek Service, known locally as Ozodlik, that members of the Tashkent commission first checked the documents of the sellers at the bazaar, inspected the conditions at the bazaar, and then went to the toilets. Not because nature was calling. It turns out that what bothered the commission was that the bathrooms at the bazaar could potentially be used for Taharat, specifically Wudhu, the ritual ablutions before Islamic prayer. One merchant speaking to Ozodlik called the commissions operation Taharat control. Members of the commission closed the toilets temporarily. They also confiscated suspect basins and teapots that could be used to hold water because that water could be used to wash hands and faces. And then those people might pray. The commission ordered the markets administration to disconnect all the water heaters from the sinks in the bazaar bathrooms. One of the commissions members complained to the chairman of the bazaar, accusing him of creating all the conditions for reading Namaz. A representative of the Baraka Savdo Bazaar confirmed to Ozodlik the visit of the commission and inspection but did not want to talk about the situation with the water. He did say, No one on the bazaar grounds is reading Namaz. No one is making ritual ablutions. No one here wears religious clothing or hijab, there are no prayer rugs and no religious literature here either. A source in the Margilan administration told Ozodlik a group did come to Baraka Savdo Bazaar and said it was part of routine checks that go on at all bazaars. The source said bazaars were a frequent venue for people trying to spread extremist ideas and therefore anti-extremism announcements are regularly made through loudspeakers. The source said there is also special room with counter-extremist material set up in all bazaars. The source could not explain the interest in washing facilities. This sort of attention is nothing new for Margilan. The city and Baraka Savdo Bazaar were among the areas targeted in the hudjum or forcible removal of the hijab -- campaign of 2015. Farruh Yusupov of Ozodlik contributed to this report. A suicide bomber has detonated his explosive vest at a Shi'ite Muslim funeral in Iraq's eastern province of Diyala, killing at least 30 people and wounding at least 58 others. Officials said some commanders of Shiite militias were among those killed on February 29 in Muqdadiyah, 80 kilometers northeast of Baghdad. The Islamic State (IS) militant group claimed responsibility for the attack. In January, an IS bombing targeting Shia in Muqdadiyah triggered a wave of revenge attacks on Sunni homes and a mosque. IS also claimed responsibility for a double bombing in Baghdad's Shi'ite district of Sadr City on February 28, which left at least 73 people dead and more than 110 others wounded. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi called on security forces to "exert further efforts to prevent the terrorists from carrying out their crimes against innocent civilians." Based on reporting by Reuters, AFP, and AP Russia says one of its warplanes has crashed while on a training exercise in the southern region of Stavropol and the pilot was killed. The Defense Ministry said the Su-25 ground attack aircraft went down on February 29 in an uninhabited area, causing no casualties or damage on the ground. It said the flight was conducted without the ammunition load. The cause of the crash is under investigation. The Su-25 is one of the aircraft that the Russian military has deployed in Syria to provide air support for forces loyal to President Bashar al-Assad. Based on reporting by AP, TASS, and Interfax Authorities in Iraq say the death toll from a double bombing at a market in Baghdads Shiite neighborhood of Sadr City rose to 73 on February 29 after several critically wounded victims died overnight. Five people remained missing and 112 people were still hospitalized on February 29, one day after a blast ripped through the crowded Mredi market and a suicide bomber detonated his explosives-filled vest amid a crowd that had gathered to help victims of the first blast. Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi called on security forces to "exert further efforts to prevent the terrorists from carrying out their crimes against innocent civilians." The February 28 double bombing came hours after Islamic State suicide bombers and gunmen attacked a government compound for security forces in Baghdad's western suburb of Abu Ghraib, just five kilometers from the strategic Baghdad International Airport. At least 12 government and paramilitary soldiers were killed and 35 others wounded in that attack. Based on reporting by Reuters, AP, and AFP Almost no one believes that the offer Ramzan Kadyrov made this weekend to step down is on the level. So what is the wily Chechen leader up to? On this week's Power Vertical Briefing, we unpack Kadyrov's announcement. Joining me are RFE/RL Senior Editor Steve Gutterman and Pavel Butorin, managing editor of RFE/RL's Russian-language television program Current Time. Also on The Briefing, Steve, Pavel, and I look at the cease-fire in Syria and all the allusions to an alleged "Plan B." Enjoy... NOTE: The Power Vertical Briefing is a short look ahead to the stories expected to make news in Russia in the coming week. It is hosted by Brian Whitmore, author of The Power Vertical blog, and appears every Monday. A large part of Moldova's military equipment dates back to Soviet times and is in urgent need of replacement, Defense Minister Anatolie Nosatii told RFE/RL, adding that the money allocated by the government for defense amounts to a small sum but is still important for its badly underfunded and underequipped army. Moldova, one of Europe's poorest countries, was part of the Soviet Union until 1991, when it declared independence. It has a long border with Ukraine and has been hosting hundreds of thousands of Ukrainian refugees since the start of Moscow's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. Russia has some 1,500 troops in Moldova's Moscow-backed separatist region of Transdniester, a sliver of land sandwiched between Moldova proper and Ukraine. "Some 90 percent [of our military equipment] is of Soviet origin and dates back to the 1960s to the 1980s.... You cannot modernize a ZIL-131 [military truck] or an antiaircraft system made in the 1970s," Nosatii said. The pro-European government of President Maia Sandu accelerated its EU bid after Russia invaded Ukraine and in June was given candidate status alongside Ukraine. Moldova's armed forces consists of 6,500 professional personnel, while 2,000 conscripts are being recruited annually for compulsory military service. The military also employs 2,000 civilians as auxiliary personnel. Nosatii told RFE/RL that the 0.5 percent of the gross domestic product allocated for defense by the government -- roughly $25.5 million -- while small, is still very important for the implementation of modernization projects. Nosatii also spoke about the equipment shortages that the Moldovan military faces because of insufficient funding. The Defense Ministry covers only partially the contents of the so-called "emergency backpack" that contract soldiers, who account for the bulk of Moldova's armed forces, must have at the ready for unexpected situations, Nosatii said. Nosatii, who was appointed in August last year as defense minister in Prime Minister Natalia Gavrilita's reformist government, told RFE/RL that his ministry's current priority is to provide every member of the armed forces with one of these individual first-aid medical kits. Moldova has been cooperating with foreign partners, including NATO, in its efforts to supply the first-aid kits to its military personnel, Nosatii said. Besides the first-aid kit, the emergency backpack must also include personal items such as underwear, socks, gloves, a woolly hat, food, and a flashlight, Nosatii said, adding that the state can only partially cover the cost of such equipment. "For example," Nosatii told RFE/RL, "if the state provides four T-shirts [for daily usage] but the backpack has to cover seven days of deployment, the remainder of three or more T-shirts must be bought by the soldier." Nosatii said that supplying Moldova's small military with equipment has been a permanent underlying problem but that the ministry has obtained aid from Moldova's external partners. "You can't demand that a soldier perform his duties when he doesn't have what he needs, when he's cold, lacks military equipment, or is forced to buy it himself," Nosatii said. Military equipment donated by Moldova's Western partners this year consists of protective gear such as helmets, flak jackets, and waterproof and winter clothing. Earlier this month, German Defense Minister Christine Lambrecht visited Moldova and said Berlin is prepared to provide drones and other military equipment to Chisinau. Lambrecht also said the German Army is ready to provide military training to Moldova. She said Berlin also realizes the importance of supporting Moldova in the wake of energy shortages stemming from the war in Ukraine. The U.S. Embassy in Iraq has issued evacuation recommendations it says could help save up to 1.5 million lives at risk from the possible collapse of the Mosul Dam in northern Iraq. Concern has grown in recent months about the deteriorating condition of the dam, which is the largest in the country. If the dam collapsed, it would unleash a wave that would devastate the city of Mosul and flood much of the capital, Baghdad, more than 450 kilometers to the south. The dam was built on an unstable foundation that continuously erodes. A lapse in required maintenance after the dam was briefly seized by Islamic State militants in 2014 has further weakened the already flawed structure. The U.S. Embassy said it had no specific information about when a breach might occur. But it said as many as 1.47 million Iraqis living in exposed areas along the Tigris River probably would not survive unless they are promptly evacuated if the dam collapses. Based on reporting by AP, Reuters, and AFP ALMATY, Kazakhstan -- A Kazakh court has acquitted journalist Yulia Kozlova, who had been charged with illegal drugs possession. The Bostandyq District Court in Kazakhstan's largest city, Almaty, ruled on February 29 that the origin of the drugs found in Kozlovas apartment in December must still be established. Kozlova's lawyer, Aiman Omarova, welcomed the ruling and called it "a rare decision." The journalist had pleaded not guilty, saying the drugs had been planted and calling the case against her politically motivated. Kozlova works for the online news portal Nakanune.kz. The outlet's owner and editor, Guzyal Baidalinova, has been under arrest since December 23. One of Kazakhstan's largest banks, Kazkommertzbank, filed a lawsuit against Baidalinova, accusing her of "organization and publishing false data." Baidalinova calls the charges politically motivated. ALMATY -- The head of the Kazakh Journalists Union has been sent to a hospital a week after he was detained for what authorities said was a case of suspected in embezzlement and tax evasion. The Almaty-based media rights organization Adil Soz (A Just Word) said on February 29 that Seitqazy Mataev, who is also the chairman of the National Press Club, was rushed to the hospital after showing symptoms of dangerously high blood pressure. Mataev was detained on February 22. On February 24, a court in Almaty ordered him to remain under house arrest. Kazakhstan's Anticorruption Agency said that Mataev could face up to 12 years in jail if convicted on charges of embezzlement and tax evasion. Mataev has said he is innocent. Rights organizations say Mataev is being prosecuted on trumped-up charges in response to his work as head of the journalists' union. Kazakhstan has confirmed that two teenagers killed in the U.S. state of Washington last week in a multiple slaying were adopted as children from Kazakhstan. The Education and Science Ministry said on February 29 that the two boys -- Timur Tory Carlson, 18, and Damir Quinn Carlson, 16 -- were from Kazakhstan's northern region of Aqmola and were adopted in 2002. The boys, originally named Timur Daniyarovich Koktiev and Damir Dulatovich Abdrakhmanov, were adopted from an orphanage in the city of Shchuchinsk. The authorities in Astana are still trying to determine whether the two retained their Kazakh citizenship or had become naturalized U.S. citizens. But Kazakhstan's human rights ombudsman's office said the case needed to be thoroughly analyzed "in order to prevent similar tragedies from happening to our fellow citizens in the future." The two teenagers were among four people shot by 51-year-old David Wayne Campbell on February 25 at his rural home near the town of Belfair, Washington. Campbell also killed his 49-year-old wife, Lana Carlson, who reportedly adopted the two boys during a previous marriage, and another victim, a female neighbor. Campbell committed suicide by shooting himself in the head during an ensuing standoff with police. Earlier reports said that the boys had been adopted in Russia, which controversially banned Americans from adopting Russian children in 2012 in what was seen as retaliation for economic sanctions. Russia's ombudsman for children's rights, Pavel Astakhov, said on February 28 that it was difficult to determine the boys' citizenships due to "Washington's rejection of Moscow's proposal to establish a unified system to register all children adopted abroad." With reporting by Kazinform, KazTAG, RIA, AP, and Interfax Welcome to the world, kid -- and don't forget to report for duty in 16 years. Three newborn babies were presented with military draft notices along with their birth certificates last week by the Russian authorities who control the Crimean Peninsula. The boys were given the notices by the chief Russian military recruiting officer in the Simferopol district of Crimea, the Moscow-installed Justice Ministry for the region said on its website. The documents were presented as part of a celebration of "the glorious sons of Russia" marking Defenders of the Fatherland Day, the February 23 holiday honoring the Russian military -- and, unofficially, all Russian men. The ministry said the notices indicated the boys should report for military service on January 24, 2032. That date was a mistake, according to the website meduza.io, which pointed out that Russian males are obliged to register for military service when they turn 17 -- an age the three boys will not reach until 2033. Russia seized control of Crimea from Ukraine in March 2014 after supporting a takeover of the regional legislature, sending in troops widely known as "little green men" for their unmarked uniforms, and staging a referendum dismissed around the world as illegitimate. With reporting by meduza.io and tvrain.ru Macedonian police have used tear gas and stun guns to repel a crowd of migrants who burst through a barbed-wire fence on the Greek border, where thousands have gathered over the past several days. Several hundred Iraqi and Syrian refugees, angered by days of delays in crossing the border into Macedonia, used a steel pole as a battering ram to break open a gate at the Idomeni border crossing on February 29. The refugees, including women and children, had earlier charged past Greek police to reach the gate, shouting, "Open the border!" Greek authorities say the number of people massed at the border with Macedonia has exceeded 7,000 -- a buildup sparked by moves by Austria and several Balkan states to limit access to migrants coming from Greece. Earlier in the day, Macedonian police allowed some 50 people in, after keeping the crossing sealed for eight hours, but closed it again after the clashes. WATCH: Migrants Try To Storm Greek-Macedonian Border No arrests or injuries were reported in the clashes, and it was not clear how many people managed to get through. Macedonia has said it will only allow as many people as accepted by Serbia, which is next on the migrants' route toward Western Europe. This has led to a huge bottleneck in Greece, where authorities say more than 22,000 people are stuck and more are arriving every day. Call For United Front More than 1 million people have reached Europe over the past year -- mostly arriving in small smugglers' dinghies from Turkey on Greece's eastern Aegean Sea islands. Greece has been left to cope with most of the burden of new arrivals since its Balkan neighbors and Austria imposed a cap on migrant numbers, with relations between Athens and Vienna souring dramatically. Greece last week withdrew its ambassador to Vienna, while Austria's Chancellor Werner Faymann accused Greece of "behaving like a travel agency" for refugees. Meanwhile, German Chancellor Angela Merkel has urged Europe to show a united front in helping Greece avoid "chaos." "Does anybody seriously believe that all the euro states who last year fought all the way to keep Greece in the euro zone -- and we [Germany] were the strictest -- can one year later allow Greece to, in a way, plunge into chaos?" Merkel also stood by her decision last year to allow refugees into Germany without a limit on numbers, saying she had no "Plan B." In France, authorities the northwestern port city of Calais,on February 29 started dismantling a large refugee camp known as "The Jungle." The camp, for years a temporary shelter for migrants trying to get to Britain, on the other side of the English Channel, has grown explosively over the past year amid Europe's migrant crisis. The camp's precise population is unclear. Local officials say it houses 3,700 people, while British-based Help Refugees charity puts the number at 5,500. Based on reporting by Reuters, AFP, AP, dpa, and BBC The 18th annual One World international human rights documentary film festival is gearing up in Prague, where dozens of films from around the globe will be screened in cinemas throughout the city March 7-16. Hosted by the Czech human rights NGO People in Need, the festival will present films addressing some of the worlds most critical human rights issues, including refugees and the migration crisis, minority rights, environmental protection, and media freedom. As always, the entries are divided into thematic categories. One of the central themes this year is Looking for Home, which will feature the stories of people on the run from war and looking for meaning and a future in a new environment. Films in the Restless Ukraine category will use different approaches to document tensions generated by Russias aggression in Ukraine. Under the category The Power of the Media, films will examine the influence of social media and video games on society, as well as the power of traditional media. Organizers say this year they found inspiration in the public debate about refugees, and would like to focus audience attention not only on the people who are coming to Europe, but mainly on ourselves--those of us who already have a home and a sense of security. In addition to Prague, the festival will also show in Brussels and 32 other cities and towns in the Czech Republic. The Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) says it remains deeply concerned over continuing cease-fire violations in eastern Ukraine. Addressing the UN Security Council on February 29 as chair of the OSCE, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier urged Kyiv and Moscow to live up to their responsibilities and abide by the terms of the Minsk peace agreement signed a year ago. Implementing the deal is the only way to a political solution in Ukraine, Steinmeier said. He said foreign ministers from France, Germany, Russia, and Ukraine would meet in Paris on March 3 to try to achieve progress on the security situation and a new electoral law for eastern Ukraine, where fighting between Russian-Backed separatists and government forces has killed more than 9,000 people since April 2014. The February 2015 peace agreement has helped reduce fighting in Ukraine's east, but skirmishes have continued. Based on reporting by AP and dpa Pakistan has hanged a man convicted of murdering a provincial governor in 2011 after the official called for reform of the country's strict blasphemy laws. Mumtaz Qadris execution in the city of Rawalpindi on February 29 triggered protests by thousands of the killer's supporters in several cities, including Karachi, Lahore, Rawalpindi, and Islamabad. The funeral is expected to be held on February 30. Qadri, who was considered a hero by many Islamists, was a former bodyguard to Punjab Governor Salman Taseer. He confessed to killing Taseer in response to his calls to reform strict blasphemy laws that carry a death sentence for insulting Islam. Qadri shot Taseer 28 times at a market in Islamabad in broad daylight. The judge who oversaw Qadri's trial was forced to flee the country after receiving death threats. Based on reporting by AFP and Reuters Final results from Irans February 26 elections show relative moderate President Hassan Rohani and his allies winning a majority in the powerful Assembly of Experts and making a strong return to parliament as one of three dominant blocs. The elections were Iran's first since international sanctions were lifted in connection with a landmark nuclear deal in July, and reformist gains against hard-liners will almost certainly affect Tehran's efforts to rebound from decades of political and economic isolation. The strong showing by the reformist-and-moderate camp came despite intense vetting that moderates said had excluded many of their preferred candidates, and appeared to be most pronounced in the capital. Rohani and centrist ex-President Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani easily won seats in the Assembly of Experts, the chamber of clerics that chooses and supervises Iran's most powerful official, the supreme leader. In all, reformist-backed candidates claimed 52 of the assembly's 88 seats, according to the Interior Ministry, including 15 of 16 races in Tehran. In doing so, they managed to unseat several prominent hard-liners, including the current chief of the assembly, Ayatollah Mohammad Yazdi, and Ayatollah Taghi Mesbah Yazdi. But several prominent hard-liners were reelected to the assembly, including Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, who narrowly clung to his seat. Jannati also heads the Guardians Council, the unelected, constitutional watchdog that disqualified hundreds of reformist candidates from the parliamentary and assembly votes. INFOGRAPHIC: This Is How Iran Is Ruled (click here) After the voting, the conservative head of Irans judiciary, Ayatollah Sadegh Amoli Larijani, accused reformists of working with American and English media outlets to prevent hard-liners from being reelected to the Assembly of Experts. "Is this type of coordination with foreigners in order to push out these figures from the Assembly of Experts in the interests of the regime?" Larijani asked in a statement on February 29, referring to Yazdi's and Mesbah Yazdi's election defeats. During its next eight-year term, the assembly could name the successor to fiercely anti-Western Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is 76 and has been in power since 1989. Reformists had urged voters to cast ballots for a coalition of pro-reform and relative moderate candidates to prevent the reelection of hard-liners and ultraconservative clerics. Interior Minister Rahmani Fazli on February 29 announced a final combined turnout figure of 62 percent among Iran's 55 million or so registered voters. The parliamentary vote count suggested the best showing there by opponents of hard-liners in more than a decade. None of Iran's three main political camps -- reformists, independents, or hard-liners -- was expected to win an outright majority in the 290-seat legislature, known as the Majlis. But reformists, together with moderate conservatives who supported the July 2015 deal curbing Iran's atomic activities in exchange for relief from UN and Western sanctions, would collectively control a legislative majority if they decided to join forces. Rohani and Rafsanjani's allies won all 30 of Tehran's contested seats in the parliament. Hard-liners, who opposed the nuclear deal, won just 68 seats, down from more than 100. Reports suggested as many as 50 parliamentary races had no clear winner and could require a second-round runoff vote, most likely in April. With reporting by Reuters, AP, IRNA, and ISNA MOSCOW -- The horror of a veiled woman in black holding up a severed childs head outside a Moscow metro station had not had time to sink in by the time Russian media and social networks were brimming with outraged remarks and reactions. Barely hours had gone by before the authorities called for a clampdown on nannies, the opposition accused law enforcement of dawdling for 40 minutes before taking action, and nationalists claimed the grisly crime offered a glimpse of an overly liberal, migrant-friendly Russia For Everyone." Chilling images of the suspect holding up a bloody child's head flooded social networks, alongside posts about the Oscars. Video soon appeared, with one clip filmed by Muscovites apparently laughing lightly and sharing a joke behind the camera as the woman proclaimed: Im a terrorist. Some witnesses said they initially thought she was holding a doll's head. The suspect, identified as a nanny from Uzbekistan and accused of killing the disabled girl she had been caring for after the 4-year-olds parents and brother left their rented Moscow apartment on February 29, was heard shouting that she was a terrorist and reportedly called out Alllahu Akbar! But authorities said they were not treating it as a terrorist attack and that she was being subjected to a psychiatric evaluation. Officials responded with calls for stringent regulation and a crackdown on nannies. Upper parliament house member Yelena Mizulina led the charge, calling for greater checks and controls on nanny agencies and for the launching of an inquiry into licensing practices for agencies and their staff vetting processes. Calling the crime monstrous, Kremlin Child Rights Commissioner Pavel Astakhov told state-run TASS news agency that all nannies should be required to present a certificate attesting to their mental health. Inna Svytenko, a Moscow city deputy, took this line further, arguing that nannies should undergo mandatory medical examination including drug testing before they are allowed to work with children. Vladimir Gutenyov, a State Duma deputy, meanwhile requested that the Federal Migration Service (FMS) carry out raids on nanny agencies to make sure they are following the labor code. The clutch of swift pronouncements prompted opposition lawmaker Dmitry Gudkov to call for his colleagues to slow down: Tragedies like todays are of course horrifying, but it is not a reason to think up laws thrown together in the space of a minute. Aleksandr Plyushchev, an anchor at the Ekho Moskvy radio station, tweeted his astonishment at the snap decision to license nannies. I honestly thought that the lawmakers initiative about licensing nannies in response to this tragedy was a stupid joke. But this is real life. Criticism Of Police The fast-flowing rhetoric appeared in stark contrast to the pace of the police response to the incident itself, at least according to government critics. By some accounts, the woman with the severed head walked freely around an exit of Oktyabrskoye Pole metro station for eight minutes before being detained -- but by others, it was over an hour. If everyone really did run away when she was walking around, then whats going to happen during a real terrorist attack? Gudkov wrote on Facebook. Opposition leader and anticorruption activist Aleksei Navalny contrasted the response with the lightning arrests often made by police on opposition street activists who brandish anti-Kremlin banners. The protocol of Russias special services: standing by the metro with an anti-Putin banner -- 5 mins until arrest; standing by the metro with a childs head shouting Allahu Akbar -- 1 hour. Speaking to Moscow city radio station Govorit Moskva, Khabib Abdulayev, a representative of the Uzbek diaspora, appealed to ethnic Russians not to overplay the importance of the womans nationality, saying that she was "mad," irrespective of her origins or religion. Nonetheless, nationalist anger stirred in the wake of the incident. The far-right Sputnik I Pogrom blog, run by Yegor Prosvinin, accused the Russian media of erroneously casting the incident as the work of a lone mad woman, saying he simply doesnt believe it. He posted a video of the woman as she stood proclaiming: "I am a terrorist. I will die, but you will all be punished." He labeled the video Russia for Everyone, playing on the antimigrant rallying call "Russia for Russians. In a post on Facebook, Prosvirin noted the apparent laughter of the men who filmed the woman holding up the head. The light chuckles behind the camera are evidently because people are not taking this seriously, he wrote. But this is no game, this is now Moskvabad, he wrote, giving the Russian capitals name an ending suggestive of Central Asia. Meanwhile, the former oil tycoon Mikhail Khodorkovskys Open Russia organization urged Russians to avoid Islamaphobic reactions to the incident, and to instead protest against the shameful ineptitude of the security services. We shouldnt be clamoring about ISIS, nor about visas from Central Asia, but about [Interior Minister Vladimir] Kolokoltsev and head Moscow cop [Anatoly] Yakunin, a blog on the Open Russia website said. So, Ramzan Kadyrov is playing head games again -- and everybody knows it. The Chechen leader announced this weekend that he was prepared to step down when his term expires in April and urged the Kremlin to find a replacement. "My time has passed," he said. Nobody believes him, of course. Kadyrov's latest piece of performance art actually had two purposes. One was simply to annoy and upstage Russia's beleaguered opposition. The announcement came as thousands marched in Moscow to mark the first anniversary of the assassination of opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, which is widely believed to have been ordered by Kadyrov. But Kadyrov's real audience was one man: Vladimir Putin. Kadyrov knows he has many enemies in Russia's security services who would like to remove him. But he also knows that Putin and others in the ruling elite fear that if he were removed, Chechnya would again descend into chaos. Whether or not this is actually the case is not important. What is important is that Putin appears to believe it's the case. So Kadyrov is basically pushing the issue and blackmailing the Kremlin leader. Go ahead and fire me, he seems to be saying, I dare you. And as if on cue, the hashtag # -- "Don't Go Ramzan" -- is already trending on Twitter. So now the ball is in the Kremlin's court. Reappointing Kadyrov will only embolden him. But not reappointing him risks a new round of conflict in the North Caucasus. Kadyrov is basically Putin's Frankenstein monster. Putin created him, and now he can't control him. Which leaves Kadyrov free to terrorize the countryside. Keep telling me what you think in the comments section, on the Power Vertical's Twitter feed, and on our Facebook page. Success! An email has been sent to with a link to confirm list signup. joe mahoney/times-dispatch URBANNA After 18 years of boating at the Dozier Port Urbanna Marina, Lisa Baechler and her family had become part of a close-knit community of boaters. Her husbands 50th birthday and her sons high school graduation were celebrated in the clubhouse that sat at the end of the dock. On Monday afternoon, after a fatal early morning fire tore down the dock and clubhouse, all that remained of either sat charred and collapsed in the marina. Its one of those things that you have to see to believe and you dont even know if you believe it after you see it. Its very surreal, Baechler said. Two people, whom authorities have not yet identified, were killed in the blaze. Virginia State Police and the Middlesex County Sheriffs Office are investigating the fire as a possible arson, said state police spokeswoman Corinne Geller. Due to there being deaths involved, the state police is investigating this as an arson until it can be proven otherwise, Geller said in an email. The remains of the two people who were killed were transported to the state medical examiners office in Richmond for positive identification. Authorities responded to the fire about 4:35 a.m., Geller said. Flames spread quickly, consuming the boathouse and a storage facility. Twenty-one boats and two cars in the marinas parking lot also were destroyed. Baechler, of Midlothian, drove to the marina after a resident there called her about 5 a.m. The dock where her familys yacht was moored had caught fire, the neighbor told her. Her familys boat was among those that burned, said Baechler, looking out at the marina where pylons still stood and crumbled tin from the roof that once extended the length of the dock sat atop the water. Baechler said she knew the couple who died in the blaze, describing them as wonderful people and experienced boaters. Franklin D. Buddy Wyker, the neighbor who called Baechler, also said he knew the couple who died and called them good neighbors. Wyker was in the middle of morning exercises inside his home overlooking the marina when he heard a strange noise. He looked out of the window and saw the dock on fire, called police and took a photo of the blaze before running out toward the marina. I immediately went over to the marina to see if I could help and the only thing I could do was take pictures of it burning, Wyker said. I lost two good friends in the fire. Wyker, who has lived at the Overlook in Urbanna since 1976, said people from across the state, including the Richmond area, kept their boats docked there. Geller, the state police spokeswoman, said the blaze was brought under control by 8:30 a.m. Fourteen volunteer fire departments from across the region responded. In an emailed statement about 1 p.m., Geller said Search and Recovery Team divers with the Virginia State Police, the Virginia Marine Resources Commission and the U.S. Coast Guard were checking a submerged boat and another partially submerged boat to ensure no one was on board at the time of the fire. As a black adolescent in New York City, Brandon Crockwell learned to run from the police. You kind of feared the cops, and rather than thinking they were there for you, they were always against you, Crockwell said Sunday evening. I didnt realize until I got older that that wasnt the case. Crockwell, who is a trooper for the Virginia State Police, always figured he would grow up to collect garbage or work in a barbershop. It wasnt until after moving to Virginia in 2007 and watching Barack Obama win the presidential election the following year that he realized he could do anything he wanted. I never thought I could be a Virginia State Police officer, but hey, if he can be president, I cant say, Well, since Im black, I cant do it, Crockwell said. No. I can do anything I want to do. We lead the country, so theres no excuses. Crockwell was one of about 20 African-American law enforcement officers honored Sunday by the Reconciliation Church of God in Christ, 630 E. 16th St. Dozens of church members gathered to sing, act in skits and ask questions of the officers, who represented federal, state and local agencies. Christian Bradford, outreach minister for the church, said it was important to shine a positive light on the many law enforcement professionals who diligently and successfully serve their communities. National attention has been paid in recent years to how officers treat people they encounter, particularly African-Americans. Several unarmed black men have died at the hands of officers, which has sparked outrage and fear. Its easy when you follow the media to really see all of the negative aspects of law enforcement, but those negative aspects are very minute, Bradford said. The conversation included a discussion of the hardships black officers have had to overcome as minorities in their departments. Charles Bradley III, a deputy U.S. marshal, said he wanted to quit at times because he felt excluded from groups of friends based on the color of his skin. Females experienced the same treatment, he said. Bradley said he decided to start doing other peoples work in addition to his own in hopes that his supervisors would reward him for his work ethic. Thats how I dealt with it, just doing double work, Bradley said. It may not be next week or it may not be next month, but somebody is eventually going to see it. The officers also had advice for youth who encounter the police and arent sure what to do: Show respect. Do what the police officer asks you to do. Dont do anything that raises red flags, such as sticking your hands in your pockets or running away. WASHINGTON State of the world, Year Eight of Barack Obama: (1) In the South China Sea, on a speck of land of disputed sovereignty far from its borders, China has just installed anti-aircraft batteries and stationed fighter jets. This after China landed planes on an artificial island it created on another disputed island chain (the Spratlys, claimed by the Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam). These facilities now function as forward bases for Beijing to challenge seven decades of American naval dominance of the Pacific Rim. China is clearly militarizing the South China Sea, the commander of the U.S. Pacific Command told Congress on Tuesday. Its goal? Hegemony in East Asia. (2) Syria: Russian intervention has turned the tide of war. Having rescued the Bashar al-Assad regime from collapse, relentless Russian bombing is destroying the rebel stronghold of Aleppo, Syrias largest city, creating a massive new wave of refugees and demonstrating to the entire Middle East what a Great Power can achieve when it acts seriously. The U.S. response? Repeated pathetic attempts by Secretary of State John Kerry to propitiate Russia (and its ally, Iran) in one collapsed peace conference after another. On Sunday, he stepped out to announce yet another provisional agreement in principle on a cessation of hostilities that the CIA director, the defense secretary and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs deem little more than a ruse. (3) Ukraine: Having swallowed Crimea so thoroughly that no one even talks about it anymore, Russia continues to trample with impunity on the Minsk cease-fire agreements. Vladimir Putin is now again stirring the pot, intensifying the fighting, advancing his remorseless campaign to fracture and subordinate the Ukrainian state. Meanwhile, Obama still refuses to send the Ukrainians even defensive weapons. (4) Iran: Last Thursday, Iran received its first shipment of S-300 anti-aircraft batteries from Russia, a major advance in developing immunity to any attack on its nuclear facilities. And it is negotiating an $8 billion arms deal with Russia that includes sophisticated combat aircraft. Like its ballistic missile tests, this conventional weapons shopping spree is a blatant violation of U.N. Security Council prohibitions. It was also a predictable and predicted consequence of the Iran nuclear deal that granted Iran $100 billion and normalized its relations with the world. The U.S. response? Words. Unlike gravitational waves, todays strategic situation is not hard to discern. Three major have-not powers are seeking to overturn the post-Cold War status quo: Russia in Eastern Europe, China in East Asia, Iran in the Middle East. All are on the march. To say nothing of the Islamic State, now extending its reach from Afghanistan to West Africa. The international order built over decades by the United States is crumbling. In the face of which, what does Obama do? Go to Cuba. Yes, Cuba. A supreme strategic irrelevance so dear to Obamas anti-anti-communist heart. Is he at least going to celebrate progress in human rights and democracy which Obama established last year as a precondition for any presidential visit? Of course not. When has Obama ever held to a red line? Indeed, since Obama began his historic normalization with Cuba, the repression has gotten worse. Last month, the regime arrested 1,414 political dissidents, the second-most ever recorded. No matter. Amid global disarray and American decline, Obama sticks to his cherished concerns: Cuba, Guantanamo (about which he gave a rare televised address this week) and, of course, climate change. Obama could not bestir himself to go to Paris in response to the various jihadi atrocities sending Kerry instead to share a big hug with Paris (as Kerry explained) with James Taylor singing Youve Got a Friend but he did make an ostentatious three-day visit there for climate change. So why not go to Havana? Sure, the barbarians are at the gates and pushing hard knowing they will enjoy but 11 more months of minimal American resistance. But our passive president genuinely believes that such advances dont really matter that these disruptors are so on the wrong side of history, that their reaches for territory, power, victory are so 20th Century. Of course, it mattered greatly to the quarter-million slaughtered in Syria and the millions more exiled. It feels all quite real to a dissolving Europe, an expanding China, a rising Iran, a metastasizing jihadism. Not to the visionary Obama, however. He sees far beyond such ephemera. He knows what really matters: climate change, Gitmo and Cuba. With time running out, he wants these to be his legacy. Indeed, they will be. It looks like nothing was found at this location. Maybe try a search? Search for: Search A Place for All Conservatives to Speak Their Mind. Judy Barnett has worked diligently since 2004 to complete a historical account of the once large and active African-American community in Botetourt County. First, she worked with her late brother Eddie, who passed away in 2009, and now on her own. Her boards were on display at Fincastle Library near the end of February in honor of Black History Month. "There was a school in each African-American community. There were 23 communities. Some were in churches or housed in a separate building," she said of the late 19th and 20th centuries. She produced a display board for each community. Barnett said, "Botetourt had a large population of African-Americans who owned businesses, were active in their schools, churches and communities." She has added the military, teachers and school displays. She also gathers information about organizations, obituaries and stories about African-Americans born in Botetourt. She has notebooks filled with information, as well. Barnett is relieved by the history museum opportunity, "I know they will be preserved. They will also be available now at the Library of Virginia for others to see." Bart Smith, director of the Roanoke Regional Small Business Development Center, the local division of the Virginia SBDC, held a workshop with 19 people interested in small-business growth at Buchanan Town Hall on Feb. 3. Arranged by the town of Buchanan, the training presented businesses with specific ways to help them grow or improve with marketing. The interactive workshop engaged attendees with topics designed to challenge them to grow in their role as business owner. The topics included the difference between being a hobby business and being in business with the understanding that business exists to be a solution for someone seeking help with a problem. Other topics centered on small-business marketing ideas to engage owners in making a great impression and how to help your town help you. The main message of the workshop was to be in business and offered helpful suggestions on how this can be achieved through marketing and community involvement. Bart Smith will be at the Buchanan Town Hall on the third Thursday of each month starting Feb. 18. He is available by appointment between 9 a.m. and noon each scheduled day. For more information and to make an appointment, he can be reached at 983-0717, ext. 102, or bsmith@roanokechamber.org. Submitted by Town of Buchanan Roanoke College has announced its events schedule for March. The months public events lineup is listed below. Can the United States and China live together? If so, how? Claes Ryn Tuesday, March 1, 7:30 p.m., Colket Center Wortmann Ballroom Claes Ryn is a professor of politics at The Catholic University of America, where his teaching and research is philosophical and interdisciplinary, spanning ethics and politics, epistemology, the historical consciousness, international relations and more. Ryn is chairman and co-founder of the National Humanities Institute, and editor of the scholarly journal Humanitas. He has lectured in China, where he gave the Distinguished Foreign Scholar Lecture at Peking University in 2000 and was named an honorary professor at Beijing Normal University in 2012. This event is sponsored by the Henry H. Fowler Program. RC Jazz & Wind Ensembles Joint Concert Tuesday, March 1, 7:30 p.m., Olin Theater The Roanoke College Jazz & Wind Ensembles will perform jointly under the direction of Dr. Joseph Blaha. Spanish Film Festival: 7 Cajas Wednesday, March 2, 7:30 p.m., Colket Center Wortmann Ballroom "7 Cajas" or "7 Boxes" (Paraguay, 2013) is the fifth of five films, with English subtitles, that is part of the Spanish Film Festival at Roanoke College. The film tells the story of Victor, a 17-year-old boy living in Paraguay, who is offered the chance to deliver seven boxes with unknown but highly coveted content in exchange for $100. The job becomes complicated and Victor and his pursuers find themselves caught in a crime they know nothing about. The festival is funded by a grant from Pragda, a film distribution company that promotes Spanish and Latin-American cinema and culture in academics and in cities that may not have this kind of influence. It is free to the public and sponsored by Roanoke's Department of Modern Languages and the Donald L. Jordan Endowment for the Humanities. Performing Arts Series: The Capitol Steps Thursday, March 3, 7:30 p.m., Olin Theater Tickets: $12 adults, $8 seniors and non-RC students Tickets are available at www.roanoke.edu/events or by calling 375-2333. For more information, email boxoffice@roanoke.edu. A group of Senate staffers set out to satirize the very people and places that employ them. Although not all of the current members of the Capitol Steps are former Capitol Hill staffers, taken together the performers have worked in a total of 18 congressional offices and represent 62 years of collective House and Senate staff experiences. Roanoke College Coffee Shop Talk: "Parisian Nights: Bodies of Meaning" Thursday, March 3, 8 p.m., Mill Mountain Coffee and Tea, Salem James Hargrove, assistant professor of art history at Roanoke College, will speak about "Parisian Nights: Bodies of Meaning." Roanoke College Coffee Shop Talks provide a relaxed forum for discussion and inquiry on a wide range of topics. Each one-hour talk includes a short presentation, followed by questions and discussion. Film Screening: The House I Live In Thursday, March 17, 7 p.m., Massengill Auditorium From the dealer to the narcotics officer, the inmate to the federal judge, The House I Live In offers a penetrating look inside America's criminal justice system and at human rights issues of race and mass incarceration, while exposing details about the world of narcotics. The screening will be followed by a question and answer session with the films producer, David Kuhn. The screening is sponsored by Roanoke College's Public Affairs Department. Art Exhibition: Friday, March 18, to Friday, April 1 Olin Gallery: Lindsey Landfried Systemic Collapse Smoyer Gallery: Dorothy Gillespie Colorfall Friday, March 18: Lindsey Landfried Lecture, 5:30 p.m., Olin Recital Hall Opening Reception, 6 to 8 p.m., Smoyer Gallery Olin Gallery: Lindsey Landfried Systemic Collapse Centered on drawing, Lindsey Landfried writes a single mark, a connecting loop, from left to right on the page, recording lines of imagined text. Using traditional writing materials, ink and graphite on paper, she uses this single mark, a loop, to create a visual incident of patterns, networks and color fields that suggest maps, landscapes, weaving, sediment and bodies of text. In the work, the loop is also a mark connected to rhythm, sound and visual noise. The shift in scale between the mark and the accumulation of marks disorients the recipient, creating for the viewer a disconcerting optical tension. The works convey compression and overlapping to evoke parallel time and experiences of displacement. Landfried returns to the United States from Berlin, Germany, where she completed a one-year fellowship awarded by the German Academic Exchange Service (DAAD) for artistic practice, hosted by the University of the Arts Berlin. Her work has been supported by the Heinz Endowments, the Brown Foundation, and through residencies at Takt Kunstraum Tapir, Virginia Center for the Creative Arts and the Vermont Studio Centers. Smoyer Gallery: Dorothy Gillespie Colorfall Colorfall explores both the sculptural and pictorial works of artist Dorothy Gillespie. Gillespies career spans more than seven decades and is characterized as both abstract expressionism and decorative abstraction. A Roanoke area native, she continued her education at the Maryland Institute of Art in Baltimore. From the beginning Gillespie found correspondence between her abstract and realistic styles which inspired her to work in many mediums, such as pastels, oils and even metal sculpture. Her style is an unembellished form of realism. Gillespie attributes her inspiration to her childhood and love of color and shapes. She pioneered new innovations for metal sculpture as well as the Womens Art Movement. The exhibited works were curated from Gerry McCarthys art collection and from the Roanoke College Permanent Collection. Christ and Folk Religion for Chinese around the World Today: Simon Chan Friday, March 18, 7:30 p.m., Antrim Chapel Dr. Simon Chan is the Earnest Lau Professor of Systematic Theology at Trinity Theological College in Singapore. His books include Grassroots Asian Theology, Liturgical Theology and Spiritual Theology. He will describe the rapid growth of Christian faith among the Chinese in China and beyond, and how that interacts with Confucianism and other Chinese traditions. This event is sponsored by the Benne Center for Religion & Society. Kandinsky Trio Concert: Series Finale Saturday, March 19, 7:30 p.m., Olin Theater Tickets: $20/$12 Tickets available at www.roanoke.edu/events or by calling 375-2333. For more information, email boxoffice@roanoke.edu. The performance will feature the Antonin Dvorak Trio in B Flat Major. Although it is an early work, this piece shows great depth of melodic writing and a wonderful range of emotional intensity. Joseph Haydns wistful and charming Trio in E Major and the Vincent Persichetti's Serenade No. 3, a little known jewel, will follow. Roanoke College Faculty Spring Jazz Concert Sunday, March 20, 4 p.m., Olin Recital Hall A revue of jazz standards and new music performed by Roanoke Valley professionals. Israel Palestine Peace Month 2016: Exhibition Monday, March 21, 7 p.m., Olin Hall This student-led initiative promotes peace between Israel and Palestine and opens up a meaningful dialogue on the Roanoke College campus, through a variety of events held in March and April. The March 21 exhibition brings personal stories to campus. It will include the story of Ahmad Ibrahim, a Roanoke College sophomore and Palestinian refugee living in Lebanon, along with Roanoke senior Zahava Urecki, a Jewish student whose family fled Poland during World War II to Argentina, and then immigrated to the United States. This exhibition also will feature B'Shara Nassar, who is a Palestinian who opened a museum in Washington, D.C., that tells the story of Palestinians. He will be sharing his story as well as bringing stories from his museum. Israel Palestine Peace Month 2016: Teach-In Tuesday, March 29, Noon to 1 p.m., Colket Center This student-led initiative promotes peace between Israel and Palestine and opens up a meaningful dialogue on the Roanoke College campus, through a variety of events held in March and April. The Teach-In will feature three Roanoke professors who will give an overview of the Israeli Palestinian conflict, explain how and why refugees are important and field questions from students. Submitted by Roanoke College RADFORD Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump meandered through an hourlong stump speech at Radford University on Monday, dishing out personal attacks against his rivals and ordering numerous protesters removed from the building. Throughout the speech at the Dedmon Center, Trump was interrupted every few minutes by protesters who were quickly pointed out by others in the crowd so they could be removed. The biggest disruption came from a group of a few dozen black Radford University students chanting No more hate! No more hate! Lets be equal, lets be great! As they were escorted out, a Time magazine photographer tangled with a Secret Service agent and was choked and thrown to the ground before being removed from the building. Isnt it fun to be at a Trump rally? Trump said. Trump arrived just after noon to deafening roars from a crowd of about 3,800 in the Dedmon Center. He launched right into his customary red meat topics to stir his followers, who responded with deafening cheers and spontaneous chants of USA! and Trump! Trump belittled his main opponents as Lying Ted Cruz and Little Marco Rubio, focusing mostly on Rubio, who has launched repeated personal attacks on Trump in recent days. Rubio peppered Trump with barbs at a Sunday night rally at Roanoke College, calling him a con artist and bringing up the size of Trumps hands. You know what they say about men with small hands. You cant trust em, Rubio said. Trump dismissed Rubios attacks as desperate. He had no choice. I guess he had to come up with something, he said. On Democrat front-runner Hillary Clinton, he said, She shouldnt even be allowed to run. When the crowd interrupted him with boos for Clinton, he said, You can boo. He dismissed Bernie Sanders campaign as over. Periodically, protesters would interrupt Trump with shouting. They were immediately shouted down by Trump supporters. Just before Trumps arrival, a recorded message over the loudspeakers told the crowd that Trump supports the First Amendment right to free speech, but this was a private event paid for by Trump, so protesters wouldnt be tolerated. If a protester starts demonstrating in the area around you, please do not touch or harm the protester, the message said. Please hold a rally sign over your head and start chanting Trump! Trump! Trump! About 20 minutes in, the crowd did as instructed and called out a young man near the front of the room. Are you protesting, darling? Trump said to him. Get him out of here! About 10 minutes later, a woman to Trumps left began shouting in protest, and again the crowd around her shouted her down. Trump was in the midst of talking about heavily taxing goods brought into the United States from other countries, including Mexico. Are you from Mexico? he shouted at the dark-skinned woman as she was removed. As that ruckus calmed, a group of a few dozen students from the Black Student Alliance, Latino Student Alliance and the Muslim Student Association at Radford stood, held hands and began chanting. Folks, youre going to hear it once: All lives matter, Trump said, citing the response often given to the Black Lives Matter movement. Trump was interrupted by more protesters every few minutes for a while as he continued to try to give his speech. He lamented that they had ruined the punch line on a story he was telling. He still managed to whip the crowd up easily. We will be building the wall, he said, referring to his promise of erecting a wall along the Mexican border to keep illegal immigrants from crossing over. That triggered chants of USA! USA! We need 1,000 miles, Trump continued. Im going to make our wall even higher than Chinas. Trump also reiterated his call for reform of libel laws. The press is a real problem in this country, he said. Trump also focused a section of his speech on his plans to bolster the U.S. economy, which he said would benefit from his history as a dealmaker. Clinton drew Trumps scorn, as he criticized her tone and for being part of a weak foreign policy. We need strength, we need strong people; its the only thing thats going to be respected, Trump said. Trumps rambling talk hit a long list of topics, including knocking the hell out of ISIS, banning Syrian refugees, jacking up taxes on imported goods to force American companies to return manufacturing operations to the U.S., doing away with the Common Core education standards, reviving coal production and support for the Second Amendment, which drew particularly spirited cheers. Before Trump even arrived, a series of speakers stirred them up for him. I dont need a politician to have perfect hair, I need him to have balls, said Tamara Neo, the former Buchanan County commonwealths attorney. Spectators lined up hours ahead of Trumps scheduled noon appearance, many buying poofy red Make America Great Again ball caps and T-shirts. Fire the Idiots, Help the Vets read the front of one popular T-shirt. On the back, DONALD TRUMP: FINALLY SOMEONE WITH BALLS. The shirts sold for $10 each. One was worn by an elementary school-aged girl. The event drew a large number of Radford University students like Tristan Rines. Rines said the opportunity to see Trump likely the first presidential candidate to make a stop in Radford was too rare to pass up. He and his friend, Virginia Tech student Ethan Haley, showed up at 6 a.m. to get one of the first spots in line for the event. The pair said they were undecided as to who they would vote for come November. Haley said he was undecided between Trump and Sanders. I like what both of them have to offer, he said. Its all about the fiery rhetoric and making a necessary change in the U.S. economy, Haley said. Bill Orrell of Clemmons, North Carolina, said he supported building a wall to keep terrorists from entering the country. And Trump is the only guy willing to build it, Orrell said, probably because he isnt concerned with politics like his Republican primary opponents. Politicians do a lot of talking, Orrell said. He does a lot of working. Trump played to the crowds sense of importance throughout his speech. He reeled off a list of endorsements and said many more wanted to endorse him but they all want to have dinner with him first. I dont want to do it. I want to be with you, he said. As he closed, he instilled the sense his supporters are part of something monumental, a movement. Four years from now, he said, youre going to say you were there at the beginning. Staff writer Robby Korth contributed to this report. CHATHAM Pittsylvania County native James Lewis Adkins survived a U.S. Air Force plane crash, served in the Vietnam War and lived to tell his story. He was also a pilot for NASA. Recalling the 1954 accident that killed two pilots at what is now Pope Field in Cumberland County, North Carolina, he said he cannot remember how he exited the plane. I dont know how I got out of the airplane, said Adkins, 83, who was a navigator behind the co-pilot on the flight. I have no idea. Adkins spoke of his experiences during an interview with the Danville Register & Bee on Friday morning at the Pittsylvania County History Research Center and Library in Chatham. He was attending a reunion for Callands High Schools 1951 graduating class. During the fatal accident, the left engine exploded and caught on fire and the plane crashed into the 82nd Airborne Division Area at what was then Pope Air Force Base on Oct. 4, 1954. Adkins was thrown out of the plane, a C-119 Flying Boxcar. He remembered rolling in the dirt and dust. Somebody threw me into the car and took me to the hospital, Adkins said, adding that he was cut up and broken up. After recovering in the hospital for three weeks, he would go on to become a pilot in 1957 and later serve in the Vietnam War. Born in Sandy Level on Feb. 1, 1933, Adkins grew up on a Museville farm which the Yorktown resident now owns. He was friends with William Reynolds Martin, who would become Pittsylvania Countys first soldier to die in the Vietnam War. Martin was killed in 1964 when the jet he was flying was shot down. The Capt. Martin Building in Chatham which houses the countys administrative offices was named after Martin and dedicated in 1979. Adkins studied civil engineering for four semesters at the Virginia Tech extension in Danville before joining the Air Force in February 1953. He took the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test at Lackland Air Force Base in 1953 and graduated from navigator training before being assigned to what was Pope Air Force Base in 1954. It was there he was assigned to the C-119 Flying Boxcars, he recalled. Three years after the crash that killed both pilots but spared Adkins, he trained to be a pilot. He graduated from T-33 Shooting Star jet training at Laredo Air Force Base in Texas and was assigned to Hunter Air Force Base in Savannah, Georgia, where he flew the B-47 Stratojet. He was in Strategic Air Command from 1959 to 1962, went on to military airlift command and flew a C-124 Globemaster, a four-engine cargo plane. After being recalled from the 124s, Adkins went to Sacramento, California, to re-qualify for the B-47. He went to the Philippines and flew weather reconnaissance missions for the Air Force Weather Service, providing weather information for B-52 bombers flying from Guam to Vietnam in 1967. Adkins, who had logged only an hour and a half of helicopter hours while he was at Hunter Air Force Base in Savannah, went to helicopter training. He was not happy, he recalled. I fought it, he said. I did not want to fly helicopters. He trained for 12 months and underwent an additional three months of infiltration training to serve a year in the Vietnam War. Adkins did infiltration at Nakhon Phanom in northern Thailand, flying into the southern part of North Vietnam performing passive reconnaissance. It involved observing what was coming down the trail into that area of North Vietnam from Hanoi and notifying headquarters, he said. His equipment included U.S. Navy A-1 Skyraiders converted for the Air Force. We didnt meet a lot of resistance going in but it was dicey coming out, Adkins said. For his work, Adkins was awarded three distinguished flying crosses, six Air Force medals and a Vietnam combat medal. Somebody had to do it, he said, wondering why he survived it all. I dont know why Im still here, Adkins said. He went on to earn an education degree from what is now the University of Nebraska at Omaha. Adkins retired from the Air Force as a major in 1973 and settled in Yorktown. He was going to become a teacher but ended up becoming a contract pilot for NASA, flying astronauts into Houston from Washington. [I did] whatever NASA wanted me to do, Adkins said. He retired from NASA in 1995. Listen, I dont like talking about this publicly, Rogers added in the interview with CQ. This is a vulnerability that I dont like being in the public domain. But I cant get it fixed, apparently, without focusing some attention on this matter and how unacceptable it is. Youre going to hear my language get more direct on this topic in the coming days and weeks in public. Our situation is completely unacceptable. The need for new helicopters at the ICBM bases has received considerable attention, mainly in the defense trade press. And on a couple of occasions this month, lawmakers brought up in hearings a general concern about security problems that might arise as a result of the aging helicopters. However, details of the Hueys inability to support security personnel in the event of an attack have not previously been disclosed. Mighty Guardian Exercise Shows Shortfalls The Air Force first identified the need to replace the 62 Hueys at issue in 2004, and the program has been delayed several times since, congressional aides said. About half those helicopters protect the missile fields, while the other half support a continuity of government mission in the event of a crisis in the Washington, D.C., area. THE two racist killers of "mild-mannered" Muslim Mushin Ahmed have been jailed for a total of 46 years. Dale Jones, of East Bawtry Road, Whiston, was sentenced to life for the Rotherham grandad's murder and ordered to spend at least 32 years in prison. Damien Hunt, of Doncaster Road, Clifton was found not guilty of Mr Ahmeds murder but guilty of the 81-year-olds manslaughter. He was jailed for 14 years. The pair viciously attacked Mr Ahmed, who was on his way to prayers, in an alleyway in Eastwood last August. Jones stamped so hard on Mr Ahmeds face that left a trainer impression, while Hunts DNA and blood were found on the pensioners shattered false teeth. Both defendants denied killing the father of four, each accusing the other, but a jury finally convicted Hunt of manslaughter this morning following several days of deliberations. The sound of crying could be heard in the public gallery as the verdict was read out. The jury had been told earlier that Jones and Hunt had been drinking heavily and taking cocaine the day before the early-hours attack. Jones called Mr Ahmed a groomer an insult believed to be relating to his traditional Muslim clothing. He and Hunt then followed Mr Ahmed into an alleyway before launching a series of kicks and punches before running off. The pensioner was found on the ground with serious head injuries and died in hospital 11 days later. Jurors at Sheffield Crown Court were told Jones had told a probation officer "P**** make me very angry" and "All P**** are rapists." Before attacking Mr Ahmed, Jones had tried to get into a taxi on Fitzwilliam Road, Eastwood, saying he would "f***ing hammer" the driver. A petrol station worker said Hunt would use the word "P***" to refer to all Asians. SARAH Champion will sign a letter in Parliament demanding a Government commitment to fund a national LGBT domestic violence charity. Broken Rainbow, the only organisation of its kind for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, faces closure over cashflow. Rotherham MP Ms Champion will sign the letter, which calls for the Home Office to provide three years funding to keep open the Manchester-based charity. She said: The Government must commit to providing core funding to Broken Rainbow, the countrys only LGBT charity for those suffering from domestic abuse. The LGBT community pays its taxes so why doesn't the Government see fit to support a service that meets their needs? If the Government is unwilling to support the only national LGBT domestic violence charity in the country, it sends out a very dangerous message that the Government does not view the 10,000 people a year who use the service to be high on their list of priorities. A delegation from Rio Tinto Diamonds headed by Simon Trott, MD, visited the premises of India Diamond Trading Centre (IDTC) within the Bharat Diamond Bourse (BDB). This was Trotts first visit to the Bourse and the Special Notified Zone (SNZ), after assuming his new charge, reports gjepc.org. The Rio Tinto Diamonds MD and his team held discussions with committee members of GJEPC and BDB on the current situation and various ways in which Rio Tinto and the Indian trade could work together. Anoop Mehta, BDB President gave a brief overview of the IDTC-SNZ and its facilities for the delegation. He said that the SNZ has had an overwhelming response from the start and has been appreciated by the miners and potential buyers with premises booked for more than 200 days till December 2016. Praveenshankar Pandya, GJEPC Chairman, made a presentation on the need for generic promotion and marketing of diamonds. He said that all major mining companies need to unite and allocate funds for this purpose, adding that the Council was willing to support these marketing initiatives in every possible manner. The Indian diamantaires requested the mining companies, including Rio Tinto, to evolve a strategy to keep prices stable. They added that De Beers and ALROSA are working directly with India to keep stocks and price under control. The GJEPC chairman said that Council is doing all it can to enhance the reputation of diamond companies with Indian banks. Bad loans and companies winding up undermined bankers' trust in the diamond sector. The Rio Tinto team said it was of the view that both synthetic and natural diamond industries can co-exist but they should be clearly differentiated. The Indian industry representatives said it was important to enhance joint efforts for creating faster and cheaper detection technology. Aruna Gaitonde, Editor-in-Chief of Asian Bureau, Rough & Polished Stellar Diamonds said it will next month conduct a diamond sale from trial mining of its Baoule kimberlite project in Guinea. The diamond development company had exported 3,341 carats to Antwerp for cleaning and auctioning. It, however, said the diamonds now weigh 3,295 carats after cleaning. Traders started viewing the goods on 25 February and the auction was expected to close on 8 March. This diamond sale forms part of the companys trial mining evaluation process of the 5 hectare Baoule kimberlite where some 100,000 tonnes is being mined and processed in order to determine with confidence the grade and diamond value of the pipe, said Stellar. Over 9,000 carats have been yielded to date and some 5,173 carats were sold in 2015 realising over $700,000 in revenues. Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief of the African Bureau, Rough&Polished Botswana is set to host the Diamonds Still Sparkling Conference for the second time in more than half a decade. The country first convened the conference in 2010 when it moved from South Africa. The event, organised by Southern African Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (SAIMM), started in Johannesburg in 2003 as a two-yearly gathering. Mining Weekly reports that the sixth in a series of triennial diamond conferences, Diamonds Still Sparkling 2016 would be held in Gaborone and comprised a workshop on March 14, a two-day conference on March 15 and 16 as well as a technical visit on March 17. The conference would target the spectrum of the diamond pipeline, from exploration to sales and marketing, with workshops featuring presentations by experts in mining and related fields. Botswana was Africas largest diamond producer and the worlds second largest diamond producer in terms of volume after Russia. Mathew Nyaungwa, Editor in Chief of the African Bureau, Rough&Polished ALROSA will put considerably less than 19% of its stock on free float 29 february 2016 News (INTERFAX.RU) - ALROSA will sell a less than 19% block of its shares in the course of the upcoming privatization, Alexey Moiseev, Deputy Finance Minister told reporters on Friday. The sale is being planned and the amount is much less than 19%. Our position is that it should be sold on a stock exchange, on the Moscow Stock Exchange, of course. Right now, preparatory work is underway, and it would be good to complete it as soon as possible, Alexey Moiseev said. He added that currently all free float options are being considered. Of course, we would like to carry out the privatization of ALROSA in a complete way, naturally. We assume ALROSA should have a small free float volume, so that the federal government together with Yakutia could retain an interest overly exceeding the controlling stake in the company, the Deputy Finance Minister said. He added that he would like to refute the view that the government was ready to sell shares to a level that would reduce the stake of the Russian Federation and Yakutia in the company to 50% and one share. Earlier on Friday, it was reported that the Federal Property Management Agency started to earmark up to 18.9% of ALROSAs shares for free float. French grocery retailer Carrefour Group (CRERF.PK,CRRFY.PK,0NPH.L) announced Monday that it has signed an agreement with the Eroski Group to acquire 36 compact hypermarkets with a total sales area of 235,000 square meters, as well as 8 shopping malls and 22 gas stations adjacent to the stores in Spain. The company did not provide financial details. The acquisition of these stores is subject to conditions, including approval by the relevant antitrust authorities. Carrefour said this acquisition would allow it to grow its store network and gain a presence in 27 new cities while strengthening its position in the food segment. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Business News European shares fell from a three-week high hit last week despite encouraging German retail sales and U.K. mortgage approvals data as well as news that China's central bank will cut the reserve-requirement ratio for all banks by 0.5 percentage point, effective Tuesday, in a bid to pump liquidity into its stuttering . Asian shares ended mixed and U.S. index futures pointed to a weak start, after a weekend meeting of G20 policymakers failed to come up with new measures to deal with sluggish global growth and a slew of upbeat U.S. data revived calls for another rate hike. China's Shanghai Composite index slumped 2.9 percent to hit its lowest level in a month on concerns over rising capital flows as China's central bank guided the yuan to its weakest level in three weeks. Closer home, the pan-European Stoxx 600 index was down 0.9 percent after gaining 1.5 percent on Friday on the back of gains in commodity prices and some encouraging company updates. Elsewhere, the German DAX was declining 1.6 percent and France's CAC 40 was down about 1 percent, while the U.K.'s FTSE 100 was gaining 0.7 percent. Shares of Morrison Supermarkets climbed 4.5 percent in London after the company announced expansion of its online operations by signing a new supply agreement with Amazon.com Inc. Commodity-related stocks traded mostly higher, with Anglo American, Antofagasta and Glencore rising 2-5 percent. Carrefour Group shares fell more than 1 percent in Paris. The grocery retailer has signed an agreement with the Eroski Group to acquire 36 compact hypermarkets with a total sales area of 235,000 square meters, as well as 8 shopping malls and 22 gas stations adjacent to the stores in Spain. Mobile gaming firm Gameloft gained 1 percent after its board rejected Vivendi's hostile takeover offer, saying the unsolicited bid is against the interests of the company, shareholders, employees and its customers. Manz shares soared 13 percent in Frankfurt after Chinese group Shanghai Electric agreed to buy at least a quarter of the German group. Swiss drug maker Roche Holding dropped 1.8 percent after saying top-line results from a Phase III study for an asthma drug didn't meet its main goal. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis Canadian stocks may struggle Monday morning, with Valeant expected to add to recent losses amid word that CEO Michael Pearson has returned from medical leave. The troubled drug maker will reschedule Monday's planned call to discuss fourth-quarter results. Bay Street is likely to remain relatively quiet ahead of the Tuesday's closely watched Canadian GDP reading. Asian stock fell overnight despite a move by China's central bank to cut the reserve-ratio requirement for banks. The loonie has strengthened over the past few weeks, but could tumble yet again if the GDP reading disappoints. In news from the oil patch, Enbridge (ENB.TO) chief executive Al Monaco says his company is aiming to invest $1-billion a year in natural gas and renewable energy projects, according to the Globe and Mail. April crude oil was up 2 cents at $32.85 a barrel, after Nigeria's oil minister spoke of consensus on a pact to freeze oil output. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Market Analysis The United States has announced that it will lift its ban on importing beef from the Netherlands. The US market has been closed to EU beef since January 1998, following the Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy (BSE) outbreak. The US introduced import restrictions on beef, as well as sheep, goats and their products, on the basis of BSE concerns. These measures went beyond the recommendations of the World Organization for Animal Health (OIE) according to which deboned beef, for instance, is safe and can be freely traded from all countries regardless of its BSE status. In addition, according to the OIE evaluation of BSE risk in the EU Member States - based on standards established in 2005 -, almost all of them presented not more, and sometimes less risk than most countries in the world. After Ireland and Lithuania, the Netherlands is the third EU country to gain access to the US market since the BSE-related ban. The opening of the US market to Dutch beef sends a positive signal to producers in other parts of the EU that are still waiting for the end of the disproportionately strict and lasting US trade restrictions. EU Commissioner for Health and Food Safety, Vytenis Andriukaitis, said he welcomes this move as a sign of recognition for the European Union's comprehensive and effective measures to eradicate BSE in Europe. He expressed hope the US will now act expeditiously to extend the approval to all imports from the EU. He called on the remaining EU partners who still maintain restrictive measures to fully adopt recognized international standards. For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com Political News UN Secretary-General calls for inquiry into air raid on market northeast of Sana'a NEW YORK, Feb. 29 (Saba) - The Secretary-General of the United Nations Ban Ki-moon has called for an urgent and impartial investigation into an airstrike targeted on Saturday a market in Yemen and resulted in the death of 32 civilians and wounding dozens. A spokesman for the UN Secretary-General in a statement issued in his name last night said Ban Ki-moon "strongly condemns the airstrike on Khalaqa market in northeast of Sana'a, which recorded a death toll that is among the highest for the number of victims killed by a single bombing since September 2015". The statement added: "The Secretary-General is concerned about the intense and ongoing air strikes and the ground fighting in Yemen despite his repeated calls for cessation of hostilities." BA Saba Facebook Facebook Twitter Twitter Whatsapp Whatsapp Telegram Telegram Email Email Print Print [29/February/2016] Millennial Moms Review: 2022 Acura MDX is pretty close to the perfect family car I dont know if perfect is attainable, especially considering weve got the world of options when it comes to modern vehicles. Were spoiled and, as such, we have very specific needs and wants. Driving-wise, the 2022 Acura MDX is one of my favourite ... A first-of-its-kind journey along India and Pakistan border What binds the two most talked about nations - India and Pakistan together? What makes the Do Kansas' drug-induced homicide laws actually help with fentanyl? As drug overdoses related to fentanyl rise in Kansas, does a state law allowing drug dealers to effectively be charged with homicide have any impact? How many voices in our materialist society tell us that happiness is to be found by acquiring as many possessions and luxuries as we can? But this is to make possessions into a false god. Instead of bringing life, they bring death. - Pope Benedict XVI "This past Wednesday I was in part of the hospital that was devoted to people who have memory problems like my father. The people here may have no idea who I am but they light up at the sight of a collar. People who cannot carry on a conversation click on and join in prayer as if there were little wrong with them, their faces relaxing in this moment of peace amidst the chaos of illness." - Fr. Valencheck "The priest's life is not his own. He does not live it for himself and his personal fulfillment, but for the salvation of souls." - Fr. Richtsteig "I am convinced that if we simply follow the liturgical books, say the texts and carry out the gestures properly, in a style continuous with our tradition, the Churchs liturgy has power the capture minds and hearts and transform them. I starting forming this conviction before I became a Catholic through my experience of Novus Ordo Masses done in an entirely Roman traditional style, closely following the books. The late Msgr. Richard Schuler would eventually articulate to me in words what I was experiencing in the church. "Just do what the Council asked do what the Church asks." Why is worship well executed according to the mind of the Church so effective? Christ is the true Actor in the sacred action of the Churchs worship. He makes our hands and voices His own as He raises our petitions and offerings to the Father for His glory and our salvation. Christs Holy Church has determined the way by which we may have this encounter with mystery in the liturgy, be taken up in the sacred action. Pope Benedict addresses this in his highly ignored Sacramentum caritatis. He teaches sacred ministers about ars celebrandi, our purpose and comportment. We must learn to get out of His way. Although we have the right to our Rite celebrated as the Church desires, liturgy is not about me or us or even you in the pews." - Fr. 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Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom of Great Britain & N. Ireland Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe Grand Rapids, MI -- (SBWIRE) -- 02/29/2016 -- viastore Systems, a leading material handling automation systems and software company, has important topics to share leading up to MODEX 2016. John Clark head of viastore's Marketing and Business Development department will blog frequently leading up to the Atlanta event in just seven weeks. Clark joined viastore in 2013 and is an experienced marketing communication executive with over 15 years' of broad hands-on experience in all aspects of marketing and communication, including writing, advertising, design, trade show and event planning, public/media relations, website, lead generation, and management. Prior to viastore, Clark held marketing management positions at TGW Systems and Dematic, both global material handling automation companies. In these positions, Clark was responsible for all aspects of the company's external communication. To read more, go to: MODEX 2016 viastore Systems, Inc. will be exhibiting at the 2016 MODEX event April 4-7, 2016 at the Georgia World Congress Center at Booth #1439. At MODEX, solutions needed to solve tough manufacturing and supply chain challenges, identify best practices, exceed customer demands and gain competitive edge are available. viastore will be presenting a special session titled, "An Incremental Approach to Automation and ROI" on April 5, 2016 from 12:45-1:30 in Theater H. The link to register is: http://bit.ly/1O70T0a About viastore Systems, Inc. For over 40 years, viastore Systems, Inc. (http://bit.ly/1PxYifB) has been a leading international provider of automated material handling solutions including AS/RS (automated storage and retrieval systems), conveyor and shuttle systems, warehouse management systems software, material flow and process controls, and integrated SAP logistics solutions. The company employs over 470 people worldwide and has annual sales of over $140 Million. viastore's focus is on consulting and planning, together with the implementation and constant improvement of intralogistics solutions with locations in Germany, USA, France, Spain, Czech Republic, Russia, China, Croatia, Turkey, Poland, Israel, Ukraine, Sweden, and Brazil. viastore, with North American headquarters in Grand Rapids, MI, is an integrated and certified partner for all major ERP system database and operating system suppliers such as SAP, Oracle, and Microsoft. viastore earned a return spot on Food Logistics' 2015 FL100+ list of software and technology providers whose products and solutions are key to the global food supply chain. viastore is a proud member of MHI. Scientists in developing countries are scrambling to find a cure for a devastating fungus that threatens to wipe out the global banana trade and plunge millions of farmers into poverty. Around the world, banana farmers are fighting a losing battle against Tropical Race 4, a soil fungus that kills Cavendish bananas, the only type grown for the international market. The disease was first spotted in the early 1990s in Malaysia, but has now started to wipe out crops in large parts of South-East Asia as well as in Africa and the Middle East. [1] The Tropical Race 4 pathogen, a new strain of what is known as Panama disease, escaped from Asia in 2013. By 2015, it had infected plantations in Jordan and Mozambique, as well as Lebanon and Pakistan, with many scientists fearing an epidemic in Sub-Saharan Africa. [2] The impact on affected farms is immense, with significant losses of plants and the inability to eradicate the fungus from affected fields, says Altus Viljoen, a plant pathologist at Stellenbosch University in South Africa. The disease can be devastating for small banana farmers, who provide much of the 17 million tonnes of Cavendish bananas traded every year mostly to rich countries where the fruit is popular as a healthy snack. [3] Bananas are also a staple food in many tropical countries, and the main source of protein for more than half a billion people around the world. Tropical Race 4, a variant of the Fusarium oxysporum fungus, is transmitted by infected plant matter, but also from the clothes and shoes of plantation workers. In Indonesia and Malaysia, the fungus wiped out more than 5,000 hectares of Cavendish bananas in 1992/93, says Agustin Molina, who leads the banana research efforts in the Asia-Pacific region for Bioversity International, a global research organisation. The banana export trade in Malaysia and Indonesia failed to prosper because of Tropical Race 4, he says. Now tens of thousands of banana farmers in the Philippines, China and Taiwan could be affected. Molina and his team try to work with local farmers to raise awareness of the threat and contain the spread of the fungus. He advocates footbaths, regulating the movement of workers and tough quarantines for seedlings and other imported plant matter. But despite such efforts, Tropical Race 4 has crossed the Pacific Ocean. With the fungus now in Mozambique, other East African countries largely dependent on Cavendish exports such as Uganda fear for their crop. If nothing is done in the next ten years, billions of dollars worth of crop will be lost, says Enoch Kikulwe, an associate scientist at Bioversity Internationals Uganda branch. The reason for Tropical Race 4s rapid spread is globalised trade (see chart 1). Uganda, the worlds third largest banana producer, imports second-hand trucks and farming equipment from China, but these are rarely disinfected before shipping putting the country at risk. Likewise, Sudan exports bananas by lorry to Lebanon and Oman, while seedlings grown in Jordan or Pakistan are sold to Mozambique. Credit: Panamadisease.org Once the fungus has infected a plant it spreads to its xylem, the tubular tissue that transports water around the plant from the roots. These tubes get clogged, and the plant wilts and dies. The fungus continues to feed on the dead tissue and releases spores that enter the soil and attach to any material that comes in contact with the plant. Sub-Saharan African scientists are stepping up research on the disease in the hope of preventing its continuing spread. But funding is scarce and local governments are not yet sufficiently aware, says Eldad Karamura, regional coordinator at the Banana Research Network for Eastern and Southern Africa. We are threatened, he says. We need greater awareness of the problem by policymakers and to train more scientists and buy equipment, he adds. At present, a laboratory at Stellenbosch University in South Africa is the only one in Sub-Saharan Africa that can test for the presence of Tropical Race 4. A Ugandan expert committee on the disease says the country could do testing too, but would need US$2.5 million to set up test facilities. More long-term plans could include research both on genetic modification to produce fungus-resistant plants and on other banana species to replace Cavendish in international markets, the committee says. Karamura has seen first hand the devastation that Tropical Race 4 causes on banana plantations. When I visit farms in Mozambique or Asia, I dont come back to Uganda with my shoes I leave them there, he says. However, the fungus poses the greatest threat to Latin America and the Caribbean. The region is responsible for 25 per cent of bananas grown worldwide, and 80 per cent of global exports. But local farmers are still reeling from a previous infection, this one caused by Tropical Race 1, the first instance of Panama disease. Panama disease emerged in the 1950s in Latin America, nearly wiping out global trade in the Gros Michel banana, a predecessor to the Cavendish. As with Tropical Race 4, the funguss spores can survive in the soil for decades. To get a sense of the potential impact of Tropical Race4 if it were allowed to spread globally, it helps to talk to Javier Chinchilla, a small-scale farmer of Gros Michel bananas in Costa Rica. He is sticking with the less popular banana type as he cannot compete with larger Cavendish growers. The ghost of Panama disease haunts him still his farm used to have 30,000 banana plants in the 1980s, but now he is down to 500. We sell Gros Michel at the farmers market, but it is increasingly difficult to get good crops because the fungus lingers in the soil, Chinchilla explains. My two brothers had to go out of business. Now its just me, my father and six other farmers that continue. But our families depend on our work with bananas. Chinchilla tries to keep his farm afloat by planting coffee, squash and maize in between the banana plants. But like thousands of other farmers in the region, he has abandoned large swathes of land to Panama disease. Production is, to some extent, nomadic, says Ana Cecilia Tapia, an agronomist at the University of Costa Rica. Farmers move their farms when a patch is contaminated, since there are no technological resources to attack the disease. The experiences of Phillippine banana growers with Panama disease Faced with the high risk of Tropical Race 4 infection, the Central America-based International Regional Organization for Agricultural Health (OIRSA) has brought together researchers and policymakers. The group tries to mobilise funds for research and preparation, such as better monitoring of crops. We also coordinate actions with regional plant protection organisations and set up specialised groups for the care and handling of Tropical Race 4, says Carlos Ramon Urias, OIRSAs regional director for plant health. The group advocates moving away from the current heavy reliance on Cavendish. There are almost 1,000 different banana species. If more of these were grown for sale, farmers would be less affected by the diseases arrival, while the fungus would also have less chance to spread. But the preferences of consumers, mostly in Europe and the United States, restrict these options. The Cavendish, which makes up 47 per cent of all bananas grown globally, is what many customers think the fruit should be: large, long and yellow. Because of this, farmers such as Chinchilla fear buyers will snub local varieties, which might be smaller, savoury or even red or green. With little international action, the responsibility to find a solution, or at least a coping strategy, for Tropical Race 4 lies with scientists from the global South. [4] Chinchilla is working with researchers from the University of Costa Rica in the hope that it will help his farm survive the fungus, should it hit Central America. We keep growing bananas, he says. By necessity, but also because we have given the researchers a vote of faith. They want to find a cure. This article was produced by SciDev.Net's Global Edition. Scientists in developing countries are scrambling to find a cure for a devastating fungus that threatens to wipe out the global banana trade and plunge millions of farmers into poverty. Around the world, banana farmers are fighting a losing battle against Tropical Race 4, a soil fungus that kills Cavendish bananas, the only type grown for the international market. The disease was first spotted in the early 1990s in Malaysia, but has now started to wipe out crops in large parts of South-East Asia as well as in Africa and the Middle East. [1] The Tropical Race 4 pathogen, a new strain of what is known as Panama disease, escaped from Asia in 2013. By 2015, it had infected plantations in Jordan and Mozambique, as well as Lebanon and Pakistan, with many scientists fearing an epidemic in Sub-Saharan Africa. [2] The impact on affected farms is immense, with significant losses of plants and the inability to eradicate the fungus from affected fields, says Altus Viljoen, a plant pathologist at Stellenbosch University in South Africa. The disease can be devastating for small banana farmers, who provide much of the 17 million tonnes of Cavendish bananas traded every year mostly to rich countries where the fruit is popular as a healthy snack. [3] Bananas are also a staple food in many tropical countries, and the main source of protein for more than half a billion people around the world. Tropical Race 4, a variant of the Fusarium oxysporum fungus, is transmitted by infected plant matter, but also from the clothes and shoes of plantation workers. In Indonesia and Malaysia, the fungus wiped out more than 5,000 hectares of Cavendish bananas in 1992/93, says Agustin Molina, who leads the banana research efforts in the Asia-Pacific region for Bioversity International, a global research organisation. The banana export trade in Malaysia and Indonesia failed to prosper because of Tropical Race 4, he says. Now tens of thousands of banana farmers in the Philippines, China and Taiwan could be affected. Molina and his team try to work with local farmers to raise awareness of the threat and contain the spread of the fungus. He advocates footbaths, regulating the movement of workers and tough quarantines for seedlings and other imported plant matter. But despite such efforts, Tropical Race 4 has crossed the Pacific Ocean. With the fungus now in Mozambique, other East African countries largely dependent on Cavendish exports such as Uganda fear for their crop. If nothing is done in the next ten years, billions of dollars worth of crop will be lost, says Enoch Kikulwe, an associate scientist at Bioversity Internationals Uganda branch. The reason for Tropical Race 4s rapid spread is globalised trade (see chart 1). Uganda, the worlds third largest banana producer, imports second-hand trucks and farming equipment from China, but these are rarely disinfected before shipping putting the country at risk. Likewise, Sudan exports bananas by lorry to Lebanon and Oman, while seedlings grown in Jordan or Pakistan are sold to Mozambique. Credit: Panamadisease.org Once the fungus has infected a plant it spreads to its xylem, the tubular tissue that transports water around the plant from the roots. These tubes get clogged, and the plant wilts and dies. The fungus continues to feed on the dead tissue and releases spores that enter the soil and attach to any material that comes in contact with the plant. Sub-Saharan African scientists are stepping up research on the disease in the hope of preventing its continuing spread. But funding is scarce and local governments are not yet sufficiently aware, says Eldad Karamura, regional coordinator at the Banana Research Network for Eastern and Southern Africa. We are threatened, he says. We need greater awareness of the problem by policymakers and to train more scientists and buy equipment, he adds. At present, a laboratory at Stellenbosch University in South Africa is the only one in Sub-Saharan Africa that can test for the presence of Tropical Race 4. A Ugandan expert committee on the disease says the country could do testing too, but would need US$2.5 million to set up test facilities. More long-term plans could include research both on genetic modification to produce fungus-resistant plants and on other banana species to replace Cavendish in international markets, the committee says. Karamura has seen first hand the devastation that Tropical Race 4 causes on banana plantations. When I visit farms in Mozambique or Asia, I dont come back to Uganda with my shoes I leave them there, he says. However, the fungus poses the greatest threat to Latin America and the Caribbean. The region is responsible for 25 per cent of bananas grown worldwide, and 80 per cent of global exports. But local farmers are still reeling from a previous infection, this one caused by Tropical Race 1, the first instance of Panama disease. Panama disease emerged in the 1950s in Latin America, nearly wiping out global trade in the Gros Michel banana, a predecessor to the Cavendish. As with Tropical Race 4, the funguss spores can survive in the soil for decades. To get a sense of the potential impact of Tropical Race4 if it were allowed to spread globally, it helps to talk to Javier Chinchilla, a small-scale farmer of Gros Michel bananas in Costa Rica. He is sticking with the less popular banana type as he cannot compete with larger Cavendish growers. The ghost of Panama disease haunts him still his farm used to have 30,000 banana plants in the 1980s, but now he is down to 500. We sell Gros Michel at the farmers market, but it is increasingly difficult to get good crops because the fungus lingers in the soil, Chinchilla explains. My two brothers had to go out of business. Now its just me, my father and six other farmers that continue. But our families depend on our work with bananas. Chinchilla tries to keep his farm afloat by planting coffee, squash and maize in between the banana plants. But like thousands of other farmers in the region, he has abandoned large swathes of land to Panama disease. Production is, to some extent, nomadic, says Ana Cecilia Tapia, an agronomist at the University of Costa Rica. Farmers move their farms when a patch is contaminated, since there are no technological resources to attack the disease. The experiences of Phillippine banana growers with Panama disease Faced with the high risk of Tropical Race 4 infection, the Central America-based International Regional Organization for Agricultural Health (OIRSA) has brought together researchers and policymakers. The group tries to mobilise funds for research and preparation, such as better monitoring of crops. We also coordinate actions with regional plant protection organisations and set up specialised groups for the care and handling of Tropical Race 4, says Carlos Ramon Urias, OIRSAs regional director for plant health. The group advocates moving away from the current heavy reliance on Cavendish. There are almost 1,000 different banana species. If more of these were grown for sale, farmers would be less affected by the diseases arrival, while the fungus would also have less chance to spread. But the preferences of consumers, mostly in Europe and the United States, restrict these options. The Cavendish, which makes up 47 per cent of all bananas grown globally, is what many customers think the fruit should be: large, long and yellow. Because of this, farmers such as Chinchilla fear buyers will snub local varieties, which might be smaller, savoury or even red or green. With little international action, the responsibility to find a solution , or at least a coping strategy, for Tropical Race 4 lies with scientists from the global South. [4] Chinchilla is working with researchers from the University of Costa Rica in the hope that it will help his farm survive the fungus, should it hit Central America. We keep growing bananas, he says. By necessity, but also because we have given the researchers a vote of faith. They want to find a cure. [NAIROBI] Water and sanitation challenges that confront Africa are not new on the continent. Thus, the 18th African Water Association (AfWA) International Congress and Exhibition that took place in Kenya last week (22-25 February) raised my curiosity with the theme sustainable access to water and sanitation in Africa. The World Bank Groups Water and Sanitation Program (WSP) was one of the key players at the congress, contextualising innovations and smart solutions in successful synergies. Alberto Leny Kenyas President Uhuru Kenyatta officially opened the conference and noted that the world faces severe water stress, with Africa being the worst affected. He, however, indicated that not all is gloom as there has been significant progress under the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) that saw 6.6 billion people gain access to improved sources of water. I attended key sessions as more than 1,200 delegates from 41 African countries deliberated on efforts being made to attain the targets set in the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) that succeeded the MDGs. At the opening symposium that brought together the water and sanitation community in Africa and the world researchers, academics, managers of water utilities, policymakers, young professionals in the sector and donors I pondered how they would go about meeting the ambitious targets. Hamanth Kassan, the AfWA president, urged delegates to take stock of the current situation and come up with innovative ways of improving sustainable access to water and sanitation in Africa that will feed into the SDGs. I spoke to the International Water Association (IWA) vice-president and incoming president Diane DArras, who will take office in October. She told me the congress was a learning experience. I hope to gain more knowledge about developing countries and to bring in more professional women into IWA to address access to water and sanitation challenges, DArras said. DArras was responding to concerns raised by African women participants at the congress on their low representation at key decision-making levels in the sector. The World Bank Groups Water and Sanitation Program (WSP) was one of the key players at the congress, contextualising innovations and smart solutions in successful synergies with presentations on governance and performance improvement tools, public-private partnerships and market-based financing mechanism for water SDGs. I attended the WSPs stimulating exposition of the systematic and innovative faecal sludge management which was based on experiences from cities in Mozambique, Senegal and Zambia. Sanitation is more about services than about infrastructure, said Peter Hawkins, WSP senior water and sanitation specialist based in Maputo, Mozambique. The solutions to the main constraints to faecal sludge management service chain pro-poor sludge management options and partnership between the utility and private entrepreneurs showed just how much ground has been gained in addressing critical sanitation issues in Sub-Saharan Africa. This piece was produced by SciDev.Nets Sub-Saharan Africa English desk. The new contracts are the Singapore IFO180, IFO380 and Rotterdam barges 3.5% sulphur, with settlement against the Platts Fuel Oil Price Assessment and are available to trade from today. The single swap contracts will allow traders to execute swaps of as little as one tonne through the Cleartrade Exchange platform. Adding these contracts is a response to demand from our members and the wider market to enhance our range of tradable asset classes. We have already demonstrated with the Virtual Steel Mill concept that we can respond to emerging market needs, said Richard Baker, ceo of Cleartrade Exchange. The introduction of the highly liquid bunker fuel contracts to our regulated marketplace is the latest demonstration of our commitment to developing these products further. The Singapore-listed marine and offshore group involved in new building, conversion and repair of ocean-going vessels expects to recognise the gain on the sale of the bunker tanker upon delivery in the second half of the financial year ending 31 December 2012. ES Group had launched its first bunker tanker Sea Tanker I on 2 June 2012. Both the double-hull bunker tankers are sold to Singapore-based bunker trader Sea Hub Tankers. ES Group was responsible for providing the engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) services for Sea Tanker II. The successful launch of the second bunker vessel on schedule underscores ES Group's capabilities and positions us as a reliable EPC contractor in the offshore and marine industry, said Christopher Low, chief executive of ES Group. Hanjin is expected to mark KRW624.7bn ($562.3m) of turnover for the third quarter, on a consolidated basis, with KRW22.9bn of operating profit and 3.7% of operating margin, said Choi Won-kyung, analyst with Kiwoom Securities. Choi explained that Hanjin's Yongdo yard losses for the second quarter will narrow, while its Subic yard will turnaround to reap profit in the third quarter. Yongdo contracted overall KRW45bn of special ships year-to-date, while Subic inked $225m, with its target reaching $1.3bn. Subic is now under negotiation for up to six 9,000-teu boxships, including options, with an European owner, which is expected to be finalised within this month, Choi said. The master judged it was impossible to immediately stop and / or drop anchor in the busy and narrow shipping lane. He had to consider the safety of his vessel and the safety of other vessels in close vicinity. After navigating to avoid both shallow water and an island to prevent grounding, he returned to the scene of the collision, IM Skaugen said in a statement. On its return the company said there many craft engaged in the rescue and it was deemed unsafe for the gas carrier to be in the vicinity. "From what we have learned so far, we believe our Captain has exercised sound judgement and made the right decision when attempting to minimise the risk of a further collision and a possible explosion due to the hazardous cargo on board our vessel. He followed company regulations and international law in this process," said Moritis Skaugen, ceo of IM Sakugen. The Singapore-flagged Norgas Cathinka and the Indonesian ferry KMP Bahuga Jaya hit each other the bow early 26 September in the port of Merak. The voyage data recorder from the Norgas vessel has been recovered and handed over to the Indonesian authroities. The vessel requires temporary repairs of $250,000. The multi-purpose port at Pasir Gudang is the southern commodities gateway for Malaysia, and one of 35 ports certified to handle LME cargo. To reach this standard, Johor Port must boost its LME cargo handling capacity to one million metric tonnes per year, said ceo Shahrull Allam Shah Abdul Halim. The port currently handles around 430,000 metric tonnes a year of LME cargo, making it seventh in terms of global rankings. Capitalising on its lower costs, Johor Port wants to join the ranks of Rotterdam and Houston, which are the two ports at the moment that have the capacity to handle that volume. Under the plan, Johor Port has allocated between MYR400m to MYR500m for capital expenditure and estimates that it will take eight to 12 months to boost capacity. Allam Shah was quoted as saying there was a high demand among Johor Port's clients to increase the LME cargo handling capacity, but the issue was being able to create space to accommodate them. Among the solutions being considered is a space optimisation plan within the port to consolidate the existing storage facilities in multi-storey complexes and expanding the existing operational areas to other locations. When the terminal, at Saudia Arabia's largest Gulf port and key gateway port to the Arabian Gulf, is fully developed, it will have a quay length of 1,200 metres and 12 quay cranes, with a design capacity of 1.8m teu per annum. The terminal is being built by Saudi Global Ports LLC (SGP), a joint-venture company formed between Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF) and PSA. The SGP Terminal will invest in the latest equipment and technology to serve the fast growing economy of the kingdom and the regional economies of the Arabian Peninsula. Located close to Saudi Arabia's economic centre and capital city Riyadh, the SGP Terminal is linked by existing railway network and excellent highways to the rest of the country. Copyright 2022. All rights reserved. Seatrade, a trading name of Informa Markets (UK) Limited. The MoU also makes provision for MSC vessels, which began calling at Iran in January after six years, to carry shipments to Iran from international ports. Agreed during a three-day visit by Swiss President Johann Schneider-Ammann. The MoU opens Iran up to other Swiss shipping companies to invest in Iranian shipping. The news follows a deal signed between Iranian shipping company IRISL and CMA CGM in January, to jointly operate routes, vessels and terminals, as well as $85m in planned Indian capacity investments at Chabahar port to allow India to trade with Irans landlocked neighbour Afghanistan. Meanwhile the first four tankers carrying Iranian crude to Europe left Kharg Island oil terminal this month. ASIA Afghanistan Expected Council Action In March, the Council plans to adopt a resolution renewing the mandate of UNAMA, which expires on 17 March. It will also hold its quarterly debate on Afghanistan, during which it will consider the Secretary-Generals 90-day report on the UN Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA). Nicholas Haysom, the Secretary-Generals Special Representative in Afghanistan and head of UNAMA, is expected to brief. Key Recent Developments The security situation in Afghanistan remains dire, with the Taliban carrying out a spate of attacks in Kabul and other parts of the country in early 2016, causing high levels of casualties to civilians and security forces. On 1 January, the Taliban exploded a bomb and engaged in a firefight at a restaurant in Kabul, leading to the death of a child and wounding 15 others. On 4 January, a bomb-filled truck exploded at a facility for workers in Kabul, killing one civilian and injuring another 22 civilians. A Taliban suicide bomber attacked a bus carrying media personnel in Kabul on 20 January, killing seven people and wounding more than 20; Council members issued a press statement condemning that attack. On 26 January, in Uruzgun province in south-central Afghanistan, a police officer allied with the Taliban poisoned ten of his co-workers, who were then shot to death by the Taliban. A police facility in Kabul was struck by a suicide bomber on 1 February, resulting in the deaths of more than 20 police officers. On 8 February, three people died as a result of a suicide bombing in Mazari Sharif in northern Balkh province. In recent months, the Taliban has engaged in heavy fighting with Afghan security forces in southern Helmand Province, as well as in the northern provinces of Baglan and Kunduz. On 9 February, the US military announced that it would deploy several hundred troops to Helmand to assist and train Afghan security forces. Militants affiliated with the Islamic State of Iraq and al-Sham (ISIS) remain a security threat in Afghanistan, especially in eastern Nangarhar province. On 13 January, they attacked an Afghan government facility near Pakistans consulate in Jalalabad, resulting in the deaths of seven Afghan security personnel. Leila Zerrougui, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General for Children and Armed Conflict, visited Afghanistan from 13 to 17 February. While there, she expressed concern at the significant rise in the recruitment of child soldiers during 2015, primarily by armed groups, including the Taliban. On 17 February, Human Rights Watch reported that in Kunduz province the Taliban has increasingly used madrasas, or Islamic religious schools, to provide military training to children between the ages of 13 and 17, many of whom have been deployed in combat. There has been very limited progress regarding reconciliation. The Quadrilateral Coordination Group (QGC)consisting of Afghan, Chinese, Pakistani and US officialsconvened on 11 January in Islamabad, Pakistan, to discuss how to chart a course for negotiations with the Taliban, who were not present at these discussions. On 23 February, the QGC reconvened in Kabul, again without the Taliban present, announcing that direct talks would be held in early March in Islamabad between representatives of the government of Afghanistan and the Taliban. The Talibans commitment to the talks is questionable, with some key figures against negotiations and other key figures placing conditions on negotiations such as the departure of foreign troops. On 18 January, Afghanistans Independent Electoral Commission (IEC) announced that provincial and district council elections would be held on 15 October. The decision has been criticised by some in the national unity government, who believe that electoral reforms must take place prior to the elections. For example, some question the IECs legitimacy and advocate the replacement of its members, in part because of its handling of the 2014 presidential elections, which were marred by accusations of malfeasance. Haysom last briefed the Council during the 21 December 2015 debate on Afghanistan. He said that the war was hindering attempts to produce the political and economic progress needed to ensure stability in the country. Human Rights-Related Developments UNAMA, in coordination with the UN Human Rights Office, released its 2015 Annual Report on Protection of Civilians in Armed Conflict on 14 February. The report documented 11,002 civilian casualties (3,545 deaths and 7,457 injuries) in 2015, exceeding by 4 percent the previous record levels of civilian casualties that occurred in 2014. Anti-government elements continued to cause the most harm, accounting for 62 percent of all civilian casualties. Ground engagements caused the highest number of total civilian casualties, followed by improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and suicide and complex attacks. The Human Rights Council will consider the report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on the situation of human rights in Afghanistan and on the achievements of technical assistance in the field of human rights in 2015 (A/HRC/31/46) during its 31st session in March. Key Issues A key issue for the Council is how the deteriorating security situation can be addressed, its negative impact on the countrys stability and the toll the conflict is taking on the civilian population. A related issue is whether it is possible to generate momentum for reconciliation efforts, given the fragmentation of the insurgency. Considering the security and political difficulties facing the country, another important issue is ensuring that UNAMA effectively discharges its mandate, which covers a wide array of tasks, including exercising good offices, promoting human rights and the rule of law, coordinating humanitarian assistance and donor support and countering narcotics. In September 2015, the Tripartite Review Commissionwhich included representatives of the donor community, the UN and the government of Afghanistan and which was formed to examine the UNs role in Afghanistanhighlighted the importance of UNAMAs work in the country and observed that Afghanistan continue[s] to demand significant international assistanceto achieve political and economic stability and security. Options The most likely option for the Council is to renew UNAMAs mandate for an additional year. In doing so, the Council may consider: underscoring the need for the international community to continue to support Afghanistan, including through military commitments expected at NATOs July 2016 Warsaw Summit and financial commitments anticipated at the Brussels Conference in October 2016; emphasising the linkages between extremism on the one hand and drug production and illegal exploitation of natural resources (e.g. talcum, marble and gold) on the other hand, in keeping with the findings of the recent report of the Analytical Support and Sanctions Monitoring Team; emphasising the need to improve efforts to prevent the transfer of small arms and light weapons to the Taliban and to trace the flow of IED components to them; expressing concern at the increasing presence and potential growth of ISIS affiliates in Afghanistan; and highlighting the importance of electoral reforms, given the irregularities in the 2014 presidential elections and the fact that parliamentary elections are scheduled for later this year. Council Dynamics Members are broadly supportive of UNAMAs work. However, there is widespread concern about the deteriorating security situation in Afghanistan and the toll that the conflict continues to inflict on civilians, especially women and children. While the Taliban remains the greatest threat to the countrys security, several Council members are expressing alarm at the presence of ISIS in Afghanistan. New Zealand has underscored the devastating impact of IEDs in the conflict, noting in the December 2015 debate that IEDs remain one of the biggest killers of Afghan security forces and civilians, including children. There is also broad emphasis in the Council on the importance of the reconciliation process in bringing stability to Afghanistan. In particular, China and the US have tried to play a supportive role in the mediation process. Several members continue to be worried about the links between the cultivation of narcotics and their trafficking and terrorist financing, a concern that has been reiterated for several years by France and Russia but that is increasingly voiced by other members as well. Spain is the penholder on Afghanistan, while New Zealand chairs the 1988 Taliban sanctions committee. UN Documents on Afghanistan This was a resolution renewing the mandate of UNAMA until 17 March 2016. This contained the report of the Tripartite Review Commission on the UN in Afghanistan. The Council held its quarterly debate on Afghanistan. Council members condemned a terrorist attack carried out by the Taliban on 20 January 2016. The 6th report of the Monitoring Team of the 1988 Taliban Sanctions Committee. It describes a military impasse on the ground and underscores the importance of ongoing external financial assistance to Afghan security forces and of Afghan public confidence in governing institutions in order to promote peace and security in the country. Useful Additional Resource Martine van Bijlert, Political Landscape: The IEC Announces 2016 Election Datebut what about electoral reform? Afghanistan Analysts Network, 18 January 2016; available at https://www.afghanistan-analysts.org/the-iec-announces-an-election-date/ AFRICA DRC and the Great Lakes Region Expected Council Action In March, the Council will be briefed by Maman Sambo Sidikou, the new Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of the UN Organization Stabilization Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (MONUSCO). The Special Envoy of the Secretary-General to the Great Lakes Region, Said Djinnit, will also brief on the latest report on the implementation of the Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework Agreement. The Council is expected to renew the mandate of MONUSCO, which expires on 31 March 2016. A ministerial-level open debate on the Great Lakes region is also planned in March, at the initiative of Council president, Angola, with the Secretary-General, Djinnit and the AU Commissioner for Peace and Security, Smail Chergui, briefing. The foreign ministers of Burundi, the Central African Republic (CAR) and the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) are also expected to participate. Key Recent Developments Rebel groups continue to spread violence in eastern DRC. In his most recent briefing to the Council on 14 January, Sidikou said that there was a significant deterioration in eastern DRC, particularly in North Kivu. The operations of the Forces Armees de la Republique Democratique du Congo (FARDC) against the Force Democratiques de liberation du Rwanda (FDLR) have displaced FDLR fighters and ethnic Tutsis, and there has been an increase in Mayi-Mayi rebel groups activities against the FDLR, with reprisal attacks by suspected FDLR elements. These have resulted in civilians being caught up in the fighting and being killed, displaced, forcibly abducted or harassed, often on the basis of ethnicity and perceived collaboration with opposing groups. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an Islamist Ugandan group, continues to wreak havoc in North Kivu. The group was reportedly responsible for an attack on FARDC positions and a village near the town of Eringeti on 12 February, in which six civilians were killed and 14 others were kidnapped. On the political front, the presidential elections scheduled for November continue to be a deeply divisive issue, given the absence of an agreed electoral calendar or a budget for the elections. Many fear that President Joseph Kabila intends to stay in power beyond the constitutionally mandated two terms, which end at the end of the year, and that the impractically dense electoral calendar and consequent delays are part of this strategy. While Kabila has not commented publicly on his political future, the governments official line is that he will abide by the constitution. In any event, as preparations for elections are at a standstill, it seems less and less likely that presidential elections can or will be held on time. On 28 November 2015, Kabila called for a national dialogue to address several issues, including the election calendar and funding. The main opposition parties have refused to participate, insisting that it is yet another tactic to avert elections. The UN, AU, EU and the International Organisation of La Francophonie (IOF) issued a joint press statement on 16 February that underscored the necessity of an inclusive political dialogue in the DRC and urged all Congolese political actors to spare no effort, within the framework of the countrys constitution, to ensure the successful holding of elections. The statement further recalled the appointment of former Togolese Prime Minister Edem Kodjo as Special Envoy by the AU Commission to facilitate the political dialogue. (Despite the request of the DRC, the UN has yet to appoint a mediator for this purpose.) Opposition parties and civil society groups organised a stay-at-home strike, bringing business and civic activity in Kinshasa to a standstill on 16 February, in order to pressure Kabila to step down at the end of his term. During his 14 January briefing, Sidikou said that the political polarisation has heightened tensions and contributed to an atmosphere of increased harassment and human rights violations, mostly against opposition members, civil society representatives and journalists. Combined with the violence in the east, he added, holding peaceful and timely credible elections seems less and less likely. Sidikou also spoke about the Secretary-Generals proposal to reduce MONUSCO by 1,700 troops, in accordance with the DRCs wishes to see MONUSCO downsized. He stated that the drawdown will be accompanied by a process of transforming MONUSCO into a more agile and proactive force, which will ensure that MONUSCO exercises greater operational capability, even as the force is gradually reduced in overall numbers. He added that the resumption of security cooperation would be a key aspect of this strategy and asked for the Councils support for this approach. (Since then, MONUSCO and the DRC have signed a technical agreement on coordination of military activities.) For its March presidency, Angola has planned an open debate that aims at looking at the Great Lakes Region holistically. With Burundi, CAR and the DRC all on the Councils agenda, the open debate seeks to encourage more strategic thinking about achieving peace and security in the region. One aspect Angola wishes the open debate to focus on will be on natural resources as drivers of conflict in the region, together with the wider relationship between development and security in the Great Lakes. Angola, as the current Chair of the International Conference on the Great Lakes Region (ICGLR), hosted the ICGLR heads of state summit on 12 February, which focused on accelerating the affective implementation of the ICGLRs Pact on Security, Stability and Development and its Protocols. Relatedly, on 11 February, the AU Peace and Security Council (PSC) held a session on natural resources and conflicts in Africa. In a press statement after the session, the PSC recognised that fairness, transparency and accountability in the management of natural resources is critical to preventing conflict and promoting sustainable development in Africa. The Secretary-General visited Goma and Kinshasa on 23-25 February. While in Kinshasa, he presided over the opening session of the Great Lakes Private Sector Investment Conference. Later he met with Kabila, government officials, opposition figures and civil society representatives, stressing the importance of political dialogue as a way to address challenges linked to the electoral process. He expressed hope that constructive dialogue would lead to peaceful and credible elections in accordance with the constitution. He also stated that during the election period, the fundamental rights of freedom of the press, expression and peaceful assembly must be upheld. Sanctions-Related Developments On 27 January, the Group of Experts assisting the DRC Sanctions Committee briefed the Committee on their recent update report. The report said that there is evidence to suggest that an attack attributed to the ADF in May 2015, in which two Tanzanian peacekeepers were killed, was actually committed by the FARDC. Some details about the circumstances of the incident, however, remained unclear. In March, the Committee may meet to receive an update from MONUSCO on the implementation of the arms embargo in the DRC. Human Rights-Related Developments On 8 February, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights released a media statement that expressed alarm over reports of escalating inter-communal violence in the Lubero and Walikale territories, North Kivu province. During the preceding weekend, at least 21 people were killed and 40 wounded, and 70 houses were burned down. There were also reports of massive displacement of civilians, looting, abductions and at least three rapes in the area. The attack may have been prompted by the killing of at least 14 members of the Nande ethnic group on 7 January, presumed to be by the FDLR. According to the statement, tensions between the Hutu and Nande communities, which have been increasing since November 2015, seem to have reached an alarming level and could lead to large-scale violence and further displacement. In January, the UN Joint Human Rights Office documented 411 human rights violations, compared to 347 recorded in December 2015. Of these violations, 52 were related to the restriction of democratic participation, compared to 45 such violations documented in December 2015. Key Issues The key issue for the Council in March is renewing MONUSCOs mandate and deciding whether to lower its troop level. A major concern is the political tension surrounding the electoral calendar and Kabilas possible attempt to remain in power. The continued violence of rebel groups on the population in North Kivu remain a serious threat to peace and security. Renewing cooperation between MONUSCO and the DRC is another issue of concern for the Council. On the Great Lakes more generally, key issues are cross-border drivers of conflict that affect several States in the region, such as illicit trade in natural resources, the movement of arms and rebel groups. Options The Council will adopt a resolution renewing MONUSCOs mandate in which it might lower MONUSCOs troop level by 1,700 troops or maintain its current level. In addition, the resolution could: encourage MONUSCO to implement plans to develop a more proactive and visible presence in eastern DRC and prepare for possible instability in other areas due to the political situation; urge the Secretary-General to appoint a mediator to help facilitate the DRC national dialogue; call on all political actors to abide by the constitution and its term limits; and call on opposition parties to immediately enter into a national dialogue in order to reach consensus on an electoral calendar and hold elections on time or as soon as possible thereafter. The Council could also consider visiting the country during the electoral period to take stock of the situation and deliver a strong political message to interlocutors. On the Great Lakes, the Council may consider adopting an outcome document recognising the impact of cross-border issues on security and stability and the need for strategic thinking and enhanced cooperation to address these issues at the regional level. Council Dynamics On the issue of troop reductions, some Council members, including the UK and the US, are concerned about the DRCs desire to downsize MONUSCO, in particular if DRC-MONUSCO cooperation does not improve dramatically. On the other hand, some countries take the view that the proposed reduction will not affect MONUSCOs operations in the east or contribute to a deterioration in the security situation, particularly in light of MONUSCOs plans to divert the freed resources to enhance the capacity of the remaining peacekeepers. They also emphasise that renewed cooperation between MONUSCO and the DRC in the east, which is related to the DRCs wish to accelerate MONUSCOs drawdown, is of critical importance to improving the security situation. France is the penholder on the DRC. UN DOCUMENTS ON THE DRC This was a resolution renewing MONUSCO and its intervention brigade until 31 March 2016. This was a resolution renewing the DRC sanctions regime and the mandate of the Group of Experts. The Council stressed the importance of neutralising armed groups in the DRC and concern that joint operations between the Congolese army and the Force Intervention Brigade in cooperation with the whole of MONUSCO had yet to resume. This was the report of the Secretary-General on MONUSCO. The Council was briefed by Special Representative Sambo Sidikou on the latest MONUSCO report. This letter contained the Secretary-Generals recommendation for reducing MONUSCOs troop strength by 1,700 peacekeepers. Other Relevant Facts Special Representative of the Secretary-General Maman Sambo Sidikou (Niger) MONUSCO Force Commander Lieutenant General Derick Mbuyiselo Mgwebi (South Africa) MONUSCO Size, Composition and Cost of Mission Strength as of 31 August 2015: 19,784 troops (including 462 military observers and 1,090 police), 840 international civilian personnel, 2,725 local civilian staff and 450 UN volunteers. Approved budget (1 July 2015-30 June 2016): $1.33 billion Mission duration: July 2010 to present ASIA DPRK (North Korea) Expected Council Action In March, the Council is expected to adopt a resolution to renew for another 13 months the mandate of the Panel of Experts assisting the 1718 Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea (DPRK) Sanctions Committee. Key Recent Developments At press time, the Council was poised to adopt a resolution that would significantly strengthen sanctions against the DPRK in response to its 6 January nuclear test and subsequent 7 February satellite launch. The draft, which was circulated to Council members on 25 February after weeks of protracted negotiations between China and the US, would, among other things, institute mandatory inspections of all cargo going in and out of the DPRK, strengthen financial sanctions, impose restrictions on exports from the DPRK of coal, iron, gold titanium and rare earth minerals, ban the supply to the DPRK of aviation fuel and expand the weapons embargo to include small arms. It would also significantly expand the list of entities and individuals subject to targeted sanctions, adding 17 individuals and 12 entities, and strengthen restrictions on the transfer to and from the DPRK of prohibited proliferation-sensitive or dual-use items. In the period since the nuclear test, the DPRK has remained defiant of the international community despite widespread condemnation and the threat of new sanctions issued by the Council in a press statement on the day of the test. On 2 February, the DPRK notified the International Maritime Organisation that it would launch an earth observation satellite between 8 and 25 February. In a 4 February letter to the Council, the Republic of Korea (ROK) referred to the move as a direct challenge to the entire international community and warned that the DPRK would face a harsh international response if it went ahead with the launch. The US and others also warned that such a launch would be met with a tough response, while China expressed serious concern. Notwithstanding these warnings, the DPRK on 7 February declared that it had successfully put a satellite into orbit. Council members held consultations that same day and condemned the launch in a press statement. In particular, they noted that although characterised by the DPRK as a satellite launch, it used ballistic missile technology that could be employed to deliver nuclear weapons systems and was therefore a serious violation of relevant Council resolutions. They also recalled their intention to develop significant new measures in response to the 6 January nuclear test and said they would expeditiously adopt a new resolution. According to the ROK, the rocket used for the satellite launch had a longer range and carried a heavier payload than the one used for a similar launch in April 2012, and was capable of reaching the US West Coast. There were also reports that the DPRK had expanded its Yongbyon nuclear enrichment facility and restarted its plutonium production reactor there. Meanwhile, the ROK announced on 10 February that in response to Pyongyangs provocations it would suspend all operations at the Kaesong industrial complex run jointly with the DPRK, and accused the DPRK of using income from the operations there to finance its nuclear programme. The DPRK on 11 February called the move a declaration of war and said the complex would be converted into a military control zone. On 18 February, the ROK announced that the annual ROK-US joint military exercises due to begin in March would be the largest ever. As it has done in the past, the DPRK strongly criticised the plans and warned that it would immediately and mercilessly respond to any provocations. Earlier in the month, the ROK and the US announced that they would start formal consultations on the possible deployment of the US anti-ballistic missile system referred to as THAAD (Terminal High Altitude Area Defense System) in response to the increased threat from the DPRK, but on 23 February, just ahead of a meeting in Washington, D.C., between the foreign ministers of China and the US, they said the talks would be postponed. The US denied, however, that the postponement was linked to the sanctions negotiations. Humanitarian assistance to the DPRK remained severely underfunded. To alleviate the situation, the Secretary-General on 3 February announced the release of $8 million dollars from the UN Central Emergency Response Fund towards assistance for some 2.2 million people who are most vulnerable and at risk of malnutrition. According to the UN, around 70 percent of the population in the DPRK is considered food insecure, while the chronic malnutrition rate among children under the age of five was 28 percent. In 2015, 11 percent of the agricultural harvest was lost due to drought. Other Sanctions-Related Developments The 1718 DPRK Sanctions Committee met on 18 February to discuss the final report of its Panel of Experts under resolution 2207. The report concluded that widespread sanctions violations had continued, highlighting in particular the activities of networks linked to the Ocean Maritime Management Company (OMM), which was designated by the Committee in July 2014, as well as activities involving African countries. Emphasising the importance of implementation by member states, the report noted that several Council members in 2015 had themselves failed to submit national implementation reports as required under resolution 2094. Recommendations included more outreach to non-Council members through open briefings and bilateral meetings, providing additional guidance on the implementation of the arms embargo and the ban on training of DPRK nationals, expanding the list of prohibited items and designating additional individuals and entities for targeted sanctions. The Committee chair, Ambassador Roman Oyarzun (Spain), briefed Council members in consultations on the work of the Committee on 25 February. In separate developments, Japan announced on 10 February that it would strengthen its bilateral sanctions against the DPRK by, among other things, imposing additional restrictions on travel between the two countries, a complete ban on DPRK ships entering Japanese ports and a ban on remittances to the DPRK except for those made for humanitarian purposes. On 18 February, a strengthening of US sanctions against the DPRK came into effect, targeting activities contributing to the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction as well as arms-related materials, human rights abuses and activities undermining cybersecurity. Human Rights-Related Developments At its 31st session in March, the Human Rights Council (HRC) will consider the report of Marzuki Darusman, the special rapporteur on the situation of human rights in the DPRK, and the report of the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), which covers the activities of the field-based structure in Seoul created to strengthen the monitoring and documentation of the human rights situation in the DPRK. The special rapporteurs report concludes that crimes against humanity appear to be continuing in the DPRK and urges the Security Council to refer the situation to the ICC, failing which it suggests the General Assembly could establish a tribunal under its residual powers of Uniting for Peace. It calls on member states to ensure that the Council holds regular briefings on the situation, with the participation of the High Commissioner for Human Rights and other relevant experts, including the special rapporteur. Furthermore, the report recommends that the HRC arrange to have an official communication addressed to the Supreme Leader of the DPRK to advise him and other senior leaders that they may be investigated and, if found to be responsible, held accountable for crimes against humanity committed under their leadership. It also recommends that the HRC establish a group of independent experts with a mandate to determine an appropriate approach towards accountability. Key Issues A key issue for the Council is the serious escalation in the threat posed by the DPRK to international peace and security as it continues to defy the Councils demands and reject any dialogue aimed at denuclearisation. A further issue is whether the tightening of sanctions currently underway will induce the DPRK to change its behaviour or only further aggravate the situation. An immediate issue is the renewal of the Panel of Experts mandate and whether any changes will be required to reflect changes in the sanctions regime. In the Sanctions Committee, key issues include implementation of the new sanctions provisions and follow-up to the Panels latest report. Options The main option for the Council is to renew the mandate of the Panel of Experts for another 13 months. Another option is for the Committee chair to convene an open briefing for UN member states to explain the measures contained in the new sanctions resolution and to present the Panel of Experts report. (It is now more than a year and a half since the last open briefing was held in July 2014.) A further option is for the Committee to issue guidance, as needed, aimed at helping member states implement the new sanctions measures. Council and Wider Dynamics Council members generally welcome the new sanctions resolution, including members like Japan, who had been pushing hard for a strong outcome on the sidelines of the negotiations between China and the US. The ROK also expressed satisfaction with the new measures. Overall, the outcome seems to have exceeded expectations, given Chinas initially cautious approach. It appears that the DPRKs 7 February satellite launch was an important factor in convincing China that a more robust response was needed. While Chinas position now seems to have shifted towards a tougher stance, it made clear when the draft resolution was presented that sanctions are not the fundamental way to solve the nuclear issue. It reiterated its call for a two-track approach including efforts to formally end the Korean war, echoing the DPRKs demand for negotiations to begin on a peace treaty. China has also continued to call for the resumption of the six-party talks involving the DPRK, China, Japan, the ROK, Russia and the US. It therefore remains to be seen whether the agreement on the new sanctions resolution will lead to greater unity going forward among China, the US and other key regional players in dealing with the DPRK nuclear threat and to what extent China will be willing to use its bilateral leverage to exert pressure on Pyongyang. The US is the penholder on the DPRK. UN Documents renewed the Panel of Experts mandate for 13 months. was the ROK letter regarding the DPRKs announcement that it would launch a satellite. condemned the DPRKs satellite launch. condemned the DPRKs nuclear test. was the report of the special rapporteur. was the OHCHRs report. Golan Heights (UNDOF) Expected Council Action In March, the Department of Peacekeeping Operations will brief Council members in consultations on the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF). The Secretary-Generals report is due 21 March. No outcome is expected. UNDOF was established in 1974 to monitor the ceasefire between Israel and Syria. Its mandate expires on 30 June. Key Recent Developments Due to the spillover of the Syrian civil war into UNDOFs area of operations, most UNDOF peacekeepers relocated from the Bravo (Syrian) side to the Alpha (Israeli) side of the ceasefire line in September 2014. The majority of personnel remain based on the Alpha (Israeli) side, resulting in restricted mission mobility and operational capacity. The UNDOF command moved its headquarters to Damascus and some peacekeepers remain on the Syrian side at Mt. Hermon. Mt. Hermon is strategically important to Israel, which could feel compelled to man the position itself if there were no UNDOF security presence there. This would be an especially difficult challenge to regional security and the 1974 disengagement agreement. The December 2015 UNDOF report detailed how Syrian forces had recaptured some positions from armed opposition groups in the Golan, resulting in a somewhat calmer situation in the central and northern areas of UNDOFs area of operations. In early January, clashes between government forces and armed opposition groups increased as the government launched an offensive to regain ground in the southern part of the missions area of operations. The civil war in Syria continues to adversely affect UNDOFs ability to function, and increases the possibility of escalating tensions not only between Israel and Syria but also between Israel and Lebanon due to the overt presence in the Golan of Hezbollahthe Tehran-backed Lebanese militia fighting on the side of the Syrian regime. On 19 December 2015, Samir Kuntara Lebanese militant affiliated with Hezbollah who headed the Syrian resistance for the liberation of the occupied Golanwas killed in Damascus, reportedly by a targeted Israeli airstrike. The head of Hezbollah, Hassan Nasrallah, said that Israel carried out the assassination and that Hezbollah would respond. On 20 December, three rockets were launched from southern Lebanon towards Israel and Israel responded with mortar fire. No casualties were reported from the exchange of fire. This incident was followed by further hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel. On 4 January, the UN Interim Force in Lebanon reported that an Israeli military patrol was attacked near Sheba Farms. Hezbollah fighters set off a roadside bomb, and Israeli forces responded with artillery fire. Hezbollah said the attack was carried out in retaliation for Kuntars assassination. On 17 February, media reports indicated that Israeli missiles struck a government military facility near Damascus. Israel has maintained that it has a neutral policy vis-a-vis the Syrian crisis except to interdict weapons shipments via Syria to Hezbollah in Lebanon. Nasrallah responded that Hezbollah was not seeking war with Israel, but nevertheless threatened to target ammonia storage tanks in Haifa. Since Russia commenced airstrikes in Syria in support of President Bashar al-Assad in September 2015, Israel and Russia have made arrangements to avoid clashes of their respective forces operating in Syrian airspace. Key Issues Considering the security situation in the Golan, the full return of UNDOF to the Syrian side seems unlikely in the foreseeable future, significantly constraining the missions ability to carry out its monitoring tasks. It is unclear if the recently agreed cessation of hostilities in Syria will sufficiently improve security conditions to allow for the return of UNDOF peacekeepers. The primary concern for the Council remains the increasing ceasefire violations. The presence of Syrian armed forces and heavy weapons in the area of separation monitored by the mission, Syrian airstrikes, Israeli airstrikes and artillery fire over the ceasefire line are all violations of the disengagement agreement. No military forces other than those of UNDOF are allowed in the area of separation. Options UNDOF was established as a Syria-based mission. How it operates is subject to the disengagement agreement, and options remain extremely limited since any change would require agreement by Israel and Syria, which is unlikely to be forthcoming. Council and Wider Dynamics Israel and Syria value UNDOFs presence and want to see the return of the mission to the Bravo side. However, the security situation is not conducive to the missions full redeployment back to the Syrian side of the ceasefire line. Council members are concerned about armed clashes in the area of operations, as well as the tension between Israel and Syria along the armistice line, which has been exacerbated by the presence of Hezbollah. The Council has always generally agreed that UNDOF contributes to stability in the region in the absence of a peace agreement between Israel and Syria. However, its liaison function is particularly important now in order to avoid further negative security implications for the region. Since June 2012, Russia and the US have been the co-penholders on resolutions renewing UNDOF. UN Documents This resolution renewed UNDOF for six months. This was the Secretary-Generals report on UNDOF. Other Relevant Facts Force Commander: Major General Jai Shanker Menon (India); Size of Mission: 789 troops; Troop Contributors: Bhutan, Fiji, India, Ireland, Nepal and the Netherlands AMERICAS Haiti Expected Council Action In March, the Secretary-General is due to submit his semi-annual report on the UN Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH). The Council is scheduled to hold a debate, with a briefing by the Secretary-Generals Special Representative, Sandra Honore. MINUSTAHs mandate expires on 15 October. Key Recent Developments Despite the consistent urging of the international community, Haiti failed to hold presidential elections to appoint a successor to Michel Martelly before his term ended on 7 February. The second round of the elections was called off at two days notice, leading to the installation of an interim president on 14 February. The second round had initially been scheduled for 27 December 2015, but was postponed in response to accusations by the opposition of widespread fraud and irregularities in the first round on 25 October. In a field of 54 candidates, the government-backed candidate, Jovenel Moise, received the most votes, with 32.76 percent, while the second-most votes went to opposition candidate Jude Celestin, with 25.29 percent. In response to opposition-led calls for an independent investigation of the 25 October results, Martelly on 22 December created an electoral evaluation commission. That same day, Security Council members issued a press statement on the importance of holding elections as a critical element of Haitis development and called on stakeholders to bring the electoral process to conclusion in accordance with the constitutional timeframe, including the inauguration of a new president by 7 February. They took note of the creation of the commission and expressed support for initiatives to increase the transparency and credibility of the electoral process, while calling on all actors to refrain from any violence or other provocations. The commissions report, released on 2 January, concluded that a number of serious irregularities had taken place during the first round and made recommendations for improving the process, but did not call for any changes to the elections schedule. In a 4 January statement, Honore and members of the international core group based in Port-au-PrinceBrazil, Canada, France, Spain, the US, the EU and the Organization of American States (OAS)took note of the report and asked all relevant parties to take the necessary measures to ensure a peaceful transfer of power on 7 February. The Provisional Electoral Council (Conseil Electoral Provisoire, or CEP) announced on 5 January that the second round of the presidential elections would be held on 24 January, along with parliamentary elections for the 22 constituencies where the results of the 9 August 2015 first round had been cancelled and country-wide local elections. It affirmed that this would provide enough time for results to be certified by 7 February. In a 7 January statement, the OAS electoral observer mission in Haiti welcomed the setting of a date and appealed to the two candidates to fully participate in the electoral process. It also noted that despite irregularities in the first round, the information gathered by the OAS on the ground did not show inconsistencies with the final result presented by the CEP in terms of which two candidates go to the run-off. Meanwhile, the creation of the electoral evaluation commission and steps taken to implement the commissions recommendations did not seem to appease the opposition. A group of eight opposition candidates, including Celestin, called for the creation of a provisional government to complete the election process and the resignation of the CEP, while Celestin said he would boycott the 24 January elections. Demonstrations turned increasingly violent, with protesters attacking electoral offices, erecting burning roadblocks and shattering windows. Despite calls by the OAS, the UN, the US and others for the second round to proceed as planned, it was cancelled at the last minute when it became clear that Celestin would not participate. The CEP on 22 January announced the indefinite postponement of the elections following the adoption by the senate on 20 January of a resolution to suspend the second round. Subsequently, at the request of Martelly, the OAS decided on 27 January to send a mission to Haiti to help resolve the stalemate. At the initiative of the US, Assistant Secretary-General for Peacekeeping Operations El Ghassim Wane briefed Council members on 28 January on the situation in consultations. In a subsequent press statement, they expressed their strong concern regarding the developments leading to the indefinite postponement of the final round of elections in Haiti, and strongly urged relevant actors to reach an agreement by 7 February on a road map for the conclusion of the electoral cycle in a free, fair, inclusive and transparent contest. They also urged all political actors to remain calm and refrain from any violence. Subsequently, Martelly and the leaders of the two chambers of parliament reached an agreement on 5 February to secure constitutional continuity at the end of the presidential term. As a first step, Martelly resigned on 7 February as required by the constitution, and then on 14 February parliament elected Jocelerme Privert, an opposition senator and former cabinet member under President Jean-Bertrand Aristide, to serve as interim president for a maximum period of 120 days, until the holding of elections. The agreement stipulated that the interim president should nominate a new consensus prime minister to replace Evans Paul and appoint a new electoral council, with elections preliminarily scheduled for 24 April and the inauguration of the new president projected for 14 May. On 25 February, Privert announced the appointment of Fritz Jean, an economist, as the new prime minister. At press time, consultations on the selection of the new members of the CEP were ongoing. The humanitarian situation seemed to deteriorate even further as Haiti entered its third consecutive year of drought, exacerbated by El Nino. The World Food Programme said on 9 February that the number of people facing severe food insecurity had doubled to 1.5 million since last year and that because of poor harvests the country was facing its worst food crisis since 2011. Also, OCHA reported in January that the number of reported cholera cases had increased by 24 percent from 2014 to 2015, with 36,045 cases and 322 deaths. Human Rights-Related Developments The independent expert on the human rights situation in Haiti, Gustavo Gallon, visited the country from 22 February to 1 March to assess the political situation and its implications for human rights as well as prison conditions. The Human Rights Council will consider the report of the independent expert (A/HRC/31/77), during its 31st session in March. Key Issues A key issue for the Council is the continued risk of instability and violence associated with the electoral process, as well as the risk of further delays, in particular if disputes continue over the results of the first round of the presidential elections. On the security side, a key issue is the capacity-building of the Haitian National Police. A further issue is the implications of the electoral crisis for MINUSTAH and the planning process for the anticipated future reconfiguration of the UN presence. Options One option for the Council is to simply hold the debate and for Council members to express their views in national statements. A further option is to adopt a presidential statement to signal that the situation is being closely watched by the Council and reiterate the importance of bringing the electoral process to a conclusion without any further delays, while noting an intention to review the UN presence by 15 October with a view to withdrawing the military contingent. Such a statement would also provide an opportunity for the Council to provide additional guidance to the Secretary-General on the planned strategic assessment of MINUSTAH. Council and Wider Dynamics Council members are united in their frustration and disappointment over the postponement of the second round of the presidential elections. It seems that most members agree with the view expressed by the US, the UN and others that the elections scheduled for 24 January should not have been cancelled, given international electoral observers assessment that the irregularities reported in the first round had not altered the final outcome. Donor countries are also concerned about the additional costs caused by the delays. With regard to the security situation, Council members were pleased to note that Wane in his briefing on 28 January said that the Haitian police had been able to handle the recent election-related protests without any operational assistance from MINUSTAH. While it is understood that there will be no changes in the mission before the end of the current mandate, there is still some frustration that the postponement of the elections will lead to a similar delay in the preparations and planning for the reconfiguration and eventual drawdown foreseen when the Council renewed MINUSTAHs mandate last October in resolution 2243. The resolution requested the Secretary-General to dispatch a strategic assessment mission to Haiti, which would present recommendations on the future presence and role of the UN in Haiti preferably by 90 days after the inauguration of the new President and ideally after the formation of a new government. On the basis of the new election schedule, this means that the Secretary-Generals recommendations are now due in mid-August instead of early May, which is much later than some Council members had wanted. When MINUSTAHs mandate was last renewed, France and the UK, which have argued for a while that the missions military contingent should be withdrawn as soon as possible, pushed unsuccessfully to include a provision that would have indicated the Councils intention to review MINUSTAH by June 2016 and, depending on the situation on the ground, authorise a further drawdown. However, the continued uncertainty surrounding the elections schedule seems to have vindicated those Council members who have consistently cautioned against a premature drawdown of the mission. The US is the penholder on MINUSTAH. UN Documents on Haiti This was a resolution extending the mandate of MINUSTAH for one year while maintaining its authorised troop strength at 2,370 military personnel and 2,601 police. This was a report on MINUSTAH which recommended an extension of the mission for another 12 months without any changes. This was the semi-annual debate on Haiti. This was a press statement that expressed concern about the postponement of the elections. This was a press statement that stressed the importance of peaceful and credible elections. In Hindsight: Security Council Visiting Missions Council members appear to have a renewed interest lately in making use of the visiting mission as a tool that can serve a number of purposes. Since the Council first travelled to Cambodia and Viet Nam in 1964, it has used the visiting mission for preventive diplomacy, gathering first-hand information, supporting peace processes and mediation. In the period since the end of the Cold War through January 2016, the Council undertook 51 visiting missions to a total of some 45 countries and territories. Several locations were visited repeatedly, with the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) holding the record at 12 and Burundi in second place with nine visits. Following the visit to Burundi in January this year, Council members seem to appreciate anew the usefulness of Council missions, including return visits, and the value of speeding up the deployment of a mission. The Council had previously visited Burundi in March 2015 in an attempt to address the crisis then looming. In light of the growing violence and deepening political divisions late last year, the Council resolved to dispatch another mission to the country, and after securing the governments consent, travelled there in January. It is too early to assess the true impact of that visit, but the combination of a clear and united message from the Council in Burundi and a Burundi-focused working meeting with the Peace and Security Council of the AU held on the way back appears to have encouraged increased engagement between the government and the international community. Several members spoke about the Burundi visit during the 29 January wrap-up session held by Uruguay at the end of its presidency (S/PV.7616). Egypt called it an example of a genuine engagement with a crisis and Angola said it was a contribution to easing tensions in Burundi. France, which led the visit, expressed interest in reviewing the Councils methodology for preparing for missions. It may be interesting to examine how various aspects of this practice, such as the decision to deploy a mission, mission composition and mission leadership, evolved over the years. In the 1990s and the early 2000s, a decision to undertake a mission, the actual visit and the subsequent publication of the relevant report tended to happen in quick succession. The reports were written literally on the flight back and published just days after the Council delegation returned to New York. In one case, a Council visiting mission to Indonesia and East Timor in September 1999, at the time the first Council mission for more than four years, the decision to undertake the mission and the departure of the delegation took place on the same day. More recently, the whole process has been much slower. It has tended to take several months for Council members to reach agreement on the destination of a proposed mission, its timing and duration. For example, a mission in response to the December 2013 implosion of South Sudan took place only in August 2014. Mission reports have been issued following delays of several months and, in a few cases, well over a year. In the 1990s, all Council missions consisted of a sub-set of Council members. The June 2001 visit to Kosovo (led by Bangladesh) was the first Council mission in which all 15 members participated. Since then, most missions have involved the full Council, though there have been some exceptions, most recently the November 2012 mission to Timor-Leste in which six members participated. The structure of leadership of visiting missions has also evolved over the years. For several years, each mission had a single permanent representative as leader, and in the first several post-Cold War years, all were led by an elected member. The US became the first permanent member to lead a mission with the 4-8 May 2000 visit to the DRC, Eritrea and Ethiopia. For the next few years, the leadership of missions would alternate between a permanent and an elected member. The first mission with different leaders for different segments was the 2003 visit to West Africa, during which Mexico and the UK alternated. And in 2007, during a mission to Africa, the practice of co-leadership emerged, whereby the UK and South Africa jointly led the visit to Addis Ababa, Accra and Khartoum. Since then, almost all missions have had different sets of co-leads (usually a permanent and an elected member) for each segment. Most missions over the years have involved travel to more than one country, though in the past, despite multiple destinations, the focus would be on one conflict situation, and the different stops involved interactions with the different key relevant actors. (The January visit to Africa may signal a return to this approach as the stop in Addis Ababa also had Burundi as its main focus.) The new momentum surrounding Council visits that has developed following the January travel has resulted in a quick decision to undertake another mission to seriously troubled countries. The Council is set to visit Mali and Guinea-Bissau in early March, followed by a stop in Dakar (the seat of the UN Office for West Africa), to gain a broader, regional perspective as well as to familiarise itself better with the preventive diplomacy role performed by UN regional political offices. All the changes in the methodology of visiting missions as well as the speed with which they sometimes occur illustrate that this is a very flexible tool and that it is up to the creativity of the lead(s) as to how to get the most value out of the missions. The past practice also suggests that, like several other Council tools, it is likely to continue to evolve. The renewed energy surrounding the visiting missions may also signal that they will happen faster, have more clearly defined goals and give rise to reports submitted in a timely fashion. For more background on the Councils visiting missions and a complete list of missions undertaken by the Council since 1992, please visit: Security Council Visiting Missions MIDDLE EAST Lebanon Expected Council Action In March, Special Coordinator for Lebanon Sigrid Kaag and the Department of Peacekeeping Affairs will brief Council members in consultations on the Secretary-Generals report on the implementation of resolution 1701, which called for a cessation of hostilities between Hezbollah and Israel in 2006. The mandate of the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) expires on 31 August 2016. Key Recent Developments The current situation in UNIFILs area of operations could be described as relatively calm but fragile. There were two serious violations of resolution 1701 and several other minor incidents. The most recent was on 4 January when two Israeli Defence Forces (IDF) vehicles were attacked south of the Blue Line, established in 2000 to confirm the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Lebanon, in the general area of Sheba Farms. Hezbollah fighters set off a bomb, and Israeli forces responded with artillery fire. Hezbollah said in a statement that the attack was carried out by a group that it named after Samir Qantar, a prominent commander who was killed in Damascus by an Israeli air strike on 20 December, after which it had vowed to retaliate. On the evening of Qantars killing, UNIFIL radars detected three rockets fired towards Israel from the general area of Al Hinniyah in southern Lebanon. The IDF informed UNIFIL that two rockets had impacted northern Israel and a third had fallen into the sea. The IDF retaliated with approximately eight rounds of mortar fire that impacted near Zibqin in southern Lebanon. No casualties were reported on either side. UNIFIL head Major General Luciano Portolano called the incident a violation of resolution 1701 directed at undermining stability in the area. Tensions between Israel and Hezbollah remain high. In a televised address on 17 February, Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah threatened to attack Israeli gas facilities, which could result in the deaths of up to 800,000 people. Nasrallah said the group has the capability to strike ammonia gas storage tanks in Haifa if the confrontation with Israel escalates, adding that Israel knows Hezbollah has missiles and rockets that can strike anywhere in its territory. Meanwhile, Lebanon continues to be affected by regional developments and the effects of tensions between Saudi Arabia and Iran reverberating throughout the region. On 19 February, Saudi Arabia suspended a $3 billion aid package for the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) to buy arms from France in what a Saudi official described as retaliation for Beiruts failure to condemn attacks on Saudi missions in Iran. The decision came after Lebanese Foreign Minister Gibran Bassil refused to support Saudi resolutions condemning Iran during two meetings of Arab and Muslim foreign ministers. Saudi Arabia has also cancelled the remainder of $1 billion in aid that it had earmarked for Lebanons internal security service. (Saudi Arabia had pledged the aid package in 2013. The first shipment of equipment was delivered to Lebanon in April 2014 to support the LAF in its fight against Islamist militants infiltrating from neighbouring Syria.) Following the Saudi announcement that it was halting the aid, the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) on 20 February declared its full support for the decision, urged the Lebanese government to reconsider its positions and policies, and expressed its deep regret that Lebanese policy had become hostage to the interests of external regional powers. The Saudi move shook an already splintered Lebanese political field. Lebanese Justice Minister Ashraf Rifi resigned from the cabinet on 21 February, saying Hezbollah was harming Beiruts relations with Arab countries. There is an armed party that is dominating the governments decisions, Rifi said. I call upon the government to at least apologize to the (Saudi) kingdom, its leadership and people. On 22 February, Lebanons cabinet met in emergency session on the Saudi decision. In a statement following the meeting, Prime Minister Tammam Salam insisted that Beirut stood by Arab countries and said that it was necessary to rectify relations between Lebanon and its brothers, to remove the stains that had surfaced recently. He added that Lebanon would maintain its policy of disassociation from regional conflicts. Salam announced that he would head a ministerial committee to visit GCC states to reassure them that Lebanons foreign policy respects its ties with Arab nations. However, the following day Saudi Arabia, along with Bahrain and the United Arab Emirates, issued travel warnings for their citizens in Lebanon, urging them to leave the country. On 24 February, Kuwait and Qatar followed suit. Lebanon continues to face grave challenges. The countrys parliament has not been able to elect a new head of state, and the country has been without a president since May 2014. The resultant power vacuum and intensified sectarian divisions have impaired Lebanons capacity to deal with the political and social challenges it is facing. Fighting along the border with Syria and an inflow of more than 1.2 million registered refugees have placed additional burdens on the countrys stability. Human Rights-Related Developments The Human Rights Council will consider the report of the Working Group on the Universal Periodic Review of Lebanon (A/HRC/31/5) and the report of the special rapporteur on freedom of religion or belief (A/HRC/31/18/Add.1), during its 31st session in March. The special rapporteurs report found that people in Lebanon are free to practice their religions and beliefs. Its recommendations include the need to reform the structural discrimination of religious family courts and develop a legal framework in accordance with international norms and standards for refugees fleeing religious persecution. The Working Groups report contained 219 recommendations including abolishing the death penalty; taking further measures to eradicate discrimination against women; ratifying the Rome Statute of the ICC; and establishing a national human rights institution in accordance with the Paris Principles. Key Issues An increasingly worrying issue is the paralysis of the Lebanese parliament and its inability to elect a president, which threatens Lebanons stability. A related issue is how the Saudi-Iran confrontation may exacerbate existing sectarianism and further fracture the domestic political field. An ongoing issue for the Council is the increasing involvement of Hezbollah and other non-state actors in the Syrian conflict and how this may draw Lebanon into more frequent confrontation with Israel, as in the instance of Israels killing of Qantar in Syria. Lebanons burden in hosting more than 1.2 million registered refugees from Syria is of deep concern as well. Options As Lebanon is approaching two years without a president, the Council could consider issuing a strong message (a resolution or a statement) encouraging political actors to elect a president. Such a message could address concerns about the situation along the Blue Line and urge parties to ensure that the cessation of hostilities is sustained. The Council could also reiterate its call on all Lebanese parties to recommit to Lebanons policy of disassociation from the Syrian crisis, consistent with their commitment in the Baabda Declaration in June 2012. Receiving the briefing and taking no action is also an option. Council Dynamics The Council has been united in its position that UNIFIL contributes to stability between Israel and Lebanon, especially considering the current Syrian crisis. A comprehensive presidential statement of 19 March 2015 outlined the main issues on which the Council is in agreement. Though the statement was issued one year ago, the range of concerns remains the same. Council consensus includes its support for Lebanons territorial integrity and security, its condemnation of acts of terrorism on Lebanese territory and its recognition of the crucial role of the LAF in responding to security challenges. France is the penholder on Lebanon. UN Documents This was a resolution extending the mandate of UNIFIL for one year. This resolution urged withdrawal of all foreign forces from Lebanon, disarmament of all Lebanese and non-Lebanese militias, extension of the Lebanese governments control over all Lebanese territory and free and fair presidential elections. This presidential statement addressed several issues, including the situation along the Blue Line; the vacancy in the presidential office; and the effects of the Syrian crisis on Lebanon, including the challenges posed by hosting nearly 1.2 million refugees, and it expressed support for the LAF, the Special Tribunal for Lebanon and the International Support Group for Lebanon. This was the report of the Secretary-General on the implementation of Security Council resolution 1701. This was the Secretary-Generals report on implementation of resolution 1559. AFRICA Liberia Expected Council Action In March, the Council is expecting a briefing from Farid Zarif, the Special Representative of the Secretary-General and head of the UN Mission in Liberia (UNMIL), on the Secretary-Generals midterm report and other recent developments. In addition, Ambassador Olof Skoog (Sweden), chair of the Liberia Configuration of the Peacebuilding Commission, may brief. Key Recent Developments The 2014 Ebola crisis focused the Councils discussion of Liberia primarily on the effects of the epidemic on the country. With the gradual containment of the epidemic in the last months of 2015, the discussion in the Council has shifted towards the planned drawdown of UNMIL. When it last discussed Liberia in September 2015, the Council adopted resolution 2239, effectively setting 30 June as the date when Liberian authorities should take over security responsibilities from UNMIL. The resolution mandated the continued drawdown of UNMIL to a total of 1,240 military and 606 police personnel by this deadline. Pending the impact on the security situation, the Council could decide on the withdrawal of UNMIL and a transition to another form of UN presence in the country. Despite the deadline, there are some doubts regarding the capacity of the Liberian authorities to handle the transition within the timeframe. There are a number of legislative reforms in the security sector that the legislature has not passed. The most notable among these are bills on the police, the immigration service and firearms and ammunition control. Moreover, the Liberian government has struggled to secure adequate funding for transition activities in light of the economic slowdown and a drop in global commodity prices. Initially, the government estimated the cost of the transition at $104 million. Later, the government reduced the estimated funding needs to $38 million, without revising any of the set criteria and planned activities. Out of this sum the government could only secure $10 million. The inadequate financial resources for the transition leaves Liberia in a precarious position and possibly dependent on donor contributions. During the Joint Council of Chiefs and Elders meeting between Liberia and Cote dIvoire held in January, the issue of the withdrawal of UNMIL was raised by the Ivorian President, Alassane Ouattara. He said that he would ask the UN Secretary-General to extend UNMILs mandate until after Liberias elections in 2017. On 29 January, Ouattara and Liberian President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf sent a joint letter to the Secretary-General containing this request. Following Ouattaras comments, Liberian defence minister Brownie Samukai reaffirmed the readiness of Liberian security forces for the transition, while guaranteeing that the military will not interfere in the election process or its outcome. However, he noted that an international presence during elections in Liberia would be of great importance, considering the process of handover from one administration to another. On 14 January, the World Health Organization declared Liberia free of Ebola but cautioned that new outbreaks were still possible. Liberia has been declared Ebola-free on two previous occasions, but the disease returned. However, this is the first time since the outbreak of the epidemic that all three of the most-affected countries (Guinea, Liberia and Sierra Leone) are Ebola-free. Sanctions-Related Developments Though limited in scope, the sanctions regime for Liberia remains active. The Council significantly reduced sanctions measures when it adopted resolution 2237 in September 2015. The resolution renewed the arms embargo for non-state actors while terminating the travel ban and asset-freeze measures. On 12 November, US President Barack Obama signed an executive order lifting US sanctions on Liberia, citing the significant progress the country has made. Key Issues The most prominent issue for the Council is maintaining stability in Liberia amid the imminent UNMIL drawdown, as well as the possible modification or termination of the sanctions regime. Risk factors for insecurity in Liberia include: inadequate government regulation of arms and ammunition; a lack of control over insecure border areas; potentially contentious upcoming national elections in neighbouring Cote dIvoire and Guinea; incomplete national reconciliation and transitional justice processes; widespread corruption and a lack of public-sector transparency and accountability; and economic dependence on natural-resource exports. Large-scale agriculture and the extractive industries are recurring sources of social unrest over labour and land issues. Options Council members are unlikely to take action on Liberia in March. In light of UNMILs upcoming drawdown, Council members could begin their thinking about possible modifications to the missions mandate that could be incorporated during the renewal in September. With no scheduled meetings on UNMIL until September, the Council could also request additional briefings in the months leading up to the start of the transition in June in order to keep abreast of developments on the ground. Council and Wider Dynamics With the Ebola epidemic officially contained, the Council seems to be solely focused on the upcoming drawdown of UNMIL. Council members seem to be unanimous in their support for the missions drawdown and the transition of security responsibilities to the Liberian authorities. This view was reaffirmed in September 2015, when the Council adopted resolution 2239. Support for the drawdown also comes from the Department of Peacekeeping Operations (DPKO), which has maintained this position for some time now. There seems to be a prevailing view in DPKO that UNMILs drawdown is overdue, considering that the mission has lasted more than 13 years and that the country has been relatively stable for several years. DPKO and the Council seem to share the view that there are more urgent conflict situations to which peacekeeping resources could be applied. With the transition approaching in June, Liberian authorities seem to be confident in their ability to take over security responsibilities from UNMIL. Council members will have the opportunity to get a better understanding of the transition process in August when the regular report of the Secretary-General on UNMIL is expected to be published. Resolution 2239 also requested the Secretary-General to conduct an assessment mission to Liberia and provide recommendations for the Council by November. Council members approach to UNMILs mandate renewal in September will be contingent on findings in the next Secretary-Generals report, while recommendations from the assessment mission due in November will be instrumental to discussions on possible reconfiguration of the mission. The US is the penholder on Liberia, and Ukraine is the chair of the 1521 Liberia Sanctions Committee. UN Documents This was a resolution renewing the mandate of UNMIL until 30 September 2016 and continuing the drawdown of UNMIL, to 1,240 military personnel and 606 police personnel by 30 June. This was a resolution that renewed the arms embargo on non-state actors for nine months but terminated the asset freeze and travel ban. This was a report on UNMIL. Peacebuilding Commission Document Chairpersons Summary, 2 December 2015 AFRICA Libya Expected Council Action In March, the Council is expected to renew the mandate of the UN Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL). UNSMIL head, Martin Kobler, will brief on recent political developments and the Secretary-Generals latest report. The Council is also likely to renew the mandate of the Panel of Experts assisting the 1970 Libya Sanctions Committee and expects a briefing by its chair, Ambassador Ramlan Ibrahim (Malaysia). The mandates of UNSMIL and the Panel of Experts expire on 15 March and 30 April, respectively. Key Recent Developments Five years since Libyas uprising, the security situation continues to deteriorate despite some positive political developments. On 17 December, participants in the political dialogueincluding members from the House of Representatives and the General National Congress (GNC), political parties, civil society, municipalities and womens groupssigned the Libyan Political Agreement in Skhirat, Morocco. On 23 December, the Council adopted resolution 2259, welcoming the signing of the Agreement and the formation of a Presidency Council. The resolution called on the Presidency Council to work expeditiously to form a Government of National Accord (GNA) within 30 days and to finalise interim security arrangements necessary for stabilising Libya. It also called on member states to cease support to, and having official contact with, parallel institutions outside of the Agreement. As the 30-day deadline approached, Kobler briefed Council members on 15 January under any other business at the request of Russia, on the challenges to form a GNA. On 18 January, the Presidency Council proposed a list of 32 ministers to be endorsed by the House. On 20 January, Security Council members issued a press statement welcoming this announcement and looking forward to the Houses endorsement of the GNA. On 25 January, the House rejected the proposed list, and negotiations continued. An 18-member Cabinet was proposed on 15 February, but at press time the House had yet to endorse it. On 24 February a majority of House members signed a statement in which they declared their approval of the GNA proposed by the Presidency Council. In a statement, Kobler called on the House leadership to formalise this endorsement. Although the House endorsed the Agreement in principle on 25 January, it expressed reservations regarding the transfer of military power included in article 8 of the additional provisions of the Agreement. Among controversial issues is the role that General Khalifa Haftar (the military leader of Operation Dignity in eastern Libya) is to play once a GNA is sworn in. The security situation continues to be highly volatile, and UNSMIL has repeatedly condemned the indiscriminate targeting of civilians by all parties. On 14 January, the Presidency Council decided to establish a Temporary Security Committee to facilitate the implementation of the security arrangements outlined in the Agreement. However, the security situation continues to be highly unstable in Tripoli, which is critical for the establishment of the GNA there as well as for the return of UNSMIL. On 23 February, Haftars forces carried out an offensive in Benghazi, taking over key neighbourhoods of the city. Fighting resumed in the south despite a ceasefire between Tuareg and Tebu tribes. The increasing presence of terrorist groups continues to be a threat to Libya and the region. A 22 September 2015 report of the Monitoring Team of the 1267/1989/2253 ISISL (Daesh)/Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee stated that ISIL may have 2,000 to 3,000 fighters in Libya and intends to control additional territory in Libya. (It controls a 250-kilometre stretch of territory along the coast.) There have been several attacks on oil infrastructure, including the 4 January ISIL takeover of the town of Ben Jawad and attacks on other oil facilities in Sidra and Ras Lanuf in Libyas oil crescent. On 7 January, ISIL claimed responsibility for an attack on a police training facility in the western town of Zliten that resulted in at least 60 deaths and was condemned by the Council. Despite the increasing presence of ISIL, Libyan authorities have repeatedly refused to invite Western intervention. However, on 19 February, the US conducted an airstrike on an ISIL training camp near Sabratha, resulting in more than 40 casualties. Western governments are engaged in contingency planning to support counter-terrorism efforts in Libya once a GNA is formed. Following a request by Kobler, a needs assessment mission was deployed in January to evaluate the feasibility of UNSMILs return to Libya (UNSMIL has been operating from Tunis since July 2014). The mission concluded that such move is contingent upon the establishment of the GNA in Tripoli and the authorisation to deploy a UN guard unit. The humanitarian situation in Libya continues to be fragile. According to OCHA, after ongoing fighting, the lack of resources is the second biggest obstacle to responding to the 2.4 million people in need of humanitarian assistance and implementing Libyas Humanitarian Response Plan. At press time, only 2 percent of the $165.6 million requested for 2016 had been received. Sanctions-Related Developments The final report of the Panel of Experts of the 1970 Sanctions Committee highlighted how continuous violations of the arms embargo mirroring regional rivalries have been fuelling instability in Libya. It also blamed the leaderships of the House and the GNC for negatively impacting the completion of the transition to the GNA. The report puts forward several recommendations to the Council focusing on the structure of Libyas security and defence sector under the GNA in order to allow for exemptions to the arms embargo, questioning the usefulness of measures targeting the illicit export of crude oil and recommending explicitly authorising the re-investment of assets frozen as a result of sanctions. Human Rights-Related Developments The Human Rights Council will consider the report of the High Commissioner for Human Rights on the findings of the mission by his Office to investigate violations and abuses of international human rights law committed in Libya since the beginning of 2014 (A/HRC/31/47), during its 31st session in March. The report describes widespread violations of international human rights law and international humanitarian law, and abuses of human rights, perpetrated by all parties to the conflict in Libya throughout 2014 and 2015, including unlawful killings, indiscriminate attacks, torture, arbitrary detention, abductions and gender-based violence. The report also describes the situation of human rights defenders, journalists, migrants, the Tawerghan community and children. It also provides an assessment of the justice sector and recommends urgent measures to fight against impunity. Key Issues The overarching issues are how to ensure the broad acceptance of the Agreement, including its endorsement by the House, how to bring on board those unwilling to sign it and how to isolate spoilers actively undermining the political process. A key issue is ensuring that military actors commit to implement the ceasefire and other security arrangements provided for in the Agreement. Stopping violations of international humanitarian law by the parties is a related issue. The growing threat in Libya of terrorist groups with regional reach is an urgent issue. Options Options for Council members on Libya include: adopting a technical resolution extending UNSMILs mandate for three months as recommended by the Secretary-General, with the view to renewing the mandate once a GNA is in place; emphasising the role that UNSMIL will continue to play in broadening support for the Agreement and its implementation and reiterating that the door remains open to others who may wish to sign it; visiting Libya and/or the region to hold discussions with the parties and regional stakeholders in order to generate momentum for the endorsement of the GNA and discuss with Libyan stakeholders the Councils approach regarding the sanctions in place; taking on board the recommendations of the Panel of Experts report; bringing effective pressure to bear on those member states identified as violating the sanctions regime; and considering imposing sanctions on spoilers. Council and Wider Dynamics Council members generally support UNSMILs mediation efforts and have repeatedly stated that there can be no military solution to the crisis in Libya. There is also a feeling of urgency among Council members given the growing threat of ISIS in Libya. However, during the negotiations on resolution 2259, Russia insisted on including a reference to a 23 December 2015 letter from Speakers Aguila Saleh Gouider (House) and Nouri Ali Abu-Sahmain (GNC) complaining that UNSMIL had gone ahead with the signing ceremony in Skhirat without considering their inputs to the political process. (Since early December 2015, some parliamentarians from both the House and GNC opposed to the Agreement have tried to add momentum to a parallel negotiation track not facilitated by the UN.) Until now, disagreements over how to support mediation efforts, including the use of UN sanctions, have hindered the Councils engagement on Libya. If the GNA is finally endorsed by the House, divergences might again arise, over deciding what action to take regarding those who decide not to sign or accept its authority. In addition, once the government is sworn in, Council members might have different perspectives regarding the kind of international engagement the Council should support against terrorist groups in Libya, such as ISIL. The UK is the penholder on Libya. UN DOCUMENTS ON LIBYA The Council welcomed the signing of the Libyan Political Agreement. This was a resolution renewing the mandate of the UNSMIL until 15 March 2016. This was a statement welcoming the announcement by the Presidency Council of the formation of the Government of National Accord and looking forward to the House of Representatives endorsing the Government of National Accord. This was a press statement condemning the terrorist attacks claimed by a group with an allegiance to ISIS. This was a letter from the speakers of the House and the GNC criticising the UN-led political process. This letter transmitted a report of the Monitoring Team on the terrorism threat in Libya posed by ISIL, Ansar al Charia and other Al-Qaida affiliates. Overview During its March presidency of the Security Council, Angola has organised a ministerial-level open debate on the Great Lakes region with a focus on natural resources as drivers of conflict and the wider relationship between development and security in the region. The Secretary-General, the Secretary-Generals Special Envoy to the region and the AU Commissioner for Peace and Security will brief and the foreign ministers of Burundi, the CAR and the DRC are expected to participate. The ministerial-level meeting comes in the same month as the Councils consideration of the report on the implementation of the DRCs Peace, Security and Cooperation Framework Agreement as well as the renewal of MONUSCO. Angola has two further initiatives this month: an open debate on the role of women in conflict prevention and resolution in Africa, and an Arria-formula meeting on food security in Africa. In early March, Council members will undertake a visiting mission to Mali, Guinea-Bissau and the Dakar-based UN Office for West Africa and the Sahel. Other African issues the Council will consider in March are: Liberia, the regular briefing on UNMIL; Libya, the renewal of UNSMIL and the 1970 sanctions regime; Somalia, the renewal of UNSOM; and South Sudan, the renewal of the 2206 sanctions regime. Council members will be following developments in Syria after the cessation of hostilities went into effect on 27 February and the announced resumption of political talks on 7 March if the truce holds. Council members will also have their regular Syria briefings on the political, humanitarian and chemical weapons tracks. Separately, the spillover effects of the conflict and the refugee crisis in Europe is expected to be a major focus of the Councils meeting with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy in March. Other Middle East issues that will be considered this month include: Golan Heights, the quarterly briefing on UNDOF; Israel/Palestine, the regular monthly meeting; and Lebanon, a briefing on implementation of resolution 1701 and UNIFIL. At press time, the Council was poised to adopt a resolution that would significantly strengthen sanctions against the DPRK in response to its 6 January nuclear test and subsequent 7 February satellite launch. The Council is also expected to adopt another DPRK resolution to renew the 1718 Panel of Experts. Other issues on the March programme of work include: Afghanistan, the renewal of UNAMA; Haiti, the regular briefing on MINUSTAH; and the adoption of a resolution on the review of the UN peacebuilding architecture. In addition, it seems possible France might revive negotiations on a draft presidential statement circulated in February that expressed the Councils intention to strengthen the UNs presence in Burundi. Finally, the Council will be following developments on the peace process in Colombia and members expect the Secretary-General to present recommendations for the political mission established by resolution 2261. PEACEMAKING, PEACEKEEPING AND PEACEBUILDING Peacebuilding Expected Council Action In March, the Council is expected to adopt a resolution that will be identical to a General Assembly resolution on the review of the UN peacebuilding architecture. The co-facilitators of the review process appointed by the Council and the General Assembly, Angola and Australia, respectively, are likely to address the Council before the vote. Key Recent Developments On 29 June 2015, the Advisory Group of Experts (AGE), a seven-person group appointed by the Secretary-General, submitted to member states their report, titled The Challenges of Sustaining Peace, culminating the first of a two-phase process for the 2015 review of the UN peacebuilding architecture. This review had been mandated by the Council and the General Assembly for the tenth anniversary of the establishment of the Peacebuilding Commission (PBC), the Peacebuilding Fund (PBF) and the Peacebuilding Support Office. The overarching thesis of the AGE report was that there must be a broader understanding of peacebuilding. The AGE contended that peacebuilding is not just a post-conflict activity as is the common understanding, but that peacebuilding also occurs before and during conflict. For this reason, it is an activity at the core of the UNs work. The report suggests that the term sustaining peace could be more appropriate than peacebuilding. A narrow understanding and a lack of commitment to peacebuilding has manifested itself in the underfunding of peacebuilding and neglect of conflict prevention. Another key conclusion is that peacebuilding efforts have been hindered by fragmentation among the UNs intergovernmental organs, the Secretariat and the wider UN system. The AGE report noted that in the past the Council used an all-encompassing definition, saying in a 2001 presidential statement, peacebuilding is aimed at preventing the outbreak, the recurrence or the continuation of armed conflict [that] requires short- and long-term actions tailored to address the particular needs of societies sliding into conflict or emerging from it. The AGE reports recommendations included proposals to strengthen the PBCs impact, in particular by having it become an advisory bridge to address the fragmentation among the Council, the Economic and Social Council and the General Assembly. The PBCs ability to carry out this role will particularly depend on a greater commitment from the Council. The report recommended, for example, that the Council draw on the PBCs advice regarding peacebuilding aspects of peace operations mandates; that the PBC diversify its working methods to consider a broader range of countries; and that the PBC become more involved in conflict prevention. To address peacebuildings under-funding, the AGE proposed that 1 percent of the value of total UN budgets for peace operations or $100 million (whichever is greater) be provided annually to the PBF from assessed contributions. It also recommended that assessed contributions be provided for programmatic dimensions of peace operations mandates, such as rule of law and security sector reform, which currently rely on voluntary contributions. Among other elements, the report emphasised the importance of inclusive national ownership to prevent conflict relapse and the need for enhanced cooperation between the PBC, regional and subregional organisations and international financial institutions. The submission of the report triggered the reviews second phase, an intergovernmental process for member states to consider the AGE reports analysis and recommendations and convert them into policy decisions for concurrent Council and General Assembly resolutions. The Council and the General Assembly appointed Angola and Australia as co-facilitators of this intergovernmental process, which began in October 2015 and was initially scheduled for completion by December 2015. The co-facilitators proposed in November an extension until March 2016, coinciding with Angolas Council presidency. Following consultations with regional groups and member states, Angola and Australia circulated a draft resolution in December. Negotiations on the text have been ongoing among the full UN membership since mid-January, and a Council open debate on the review was held on 23 February. Developments in the PBC The PBCs six country-specific configurations are Burundi, the Central African Republic, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia and Sierra Leone. Amidst Burundis worsening violence after President Pierre Nkurunziza was elected for a third term, Ambassador Jurg Lauber (Switzerland), the chair of the Burundi configuration, travelled to Burundi, Uganda and Tanzania from 9 to 14 November 2015 and to Burundi, Rwanda and AU headquarters in Addis Ababa from 15 to 20 February 2016. While in Burundi on 9 November, Lauber briefed the Council via video teleconference during a Council urgent session on the situation. The Guinea-Bissau configuration issued three statements between August 2015 and February 2016 during that countrys prolonged political crisis on the need for political leaders to resolve the impasse. The PBC held a rare meeting on a non-PBC agenda country on 15 September 2015, with the president of Burkina Fasos national electoral commission briefing on electoral preparations. Ambassador Macharia Kamau (Kenya) was elected PBC Chair on 3 February. Key Issues Concluding negotiations on the draft resolution will be a priority. Differences during negotiations have been over funding for peacebuilding, Council-PBC relations and elements introduced by the AGE report regarding inclusivity, conflict prevention, the PBCs mandate and a common understanding of sustaining peace. Options The Council and the General Assembly may adopt concurrent resolutions in March, or may continue negotiations if more time is necessary to reach consensus. On the AGEs funding recommendations, the resolution may emphasise the need for predictable and sustained financing of peacebuilding, while asking the Secretary-General to provide options for funding peacebuilding activities in a future report that could also include an update on carrying forward recommendations of the review. Council and Wider Dynamics During the preparation of the AGE report, there was an effort to ensure coherence with the two other major review processes in 2015the reviews of peace operations and the review of the implementation of resolution 1325 on women, peace and security. The co-facilitators have similarly sought to ensure such coherence. The initial draft resolution prepared by the co-facilitators comprehensively reflected the reports main themes and recommendations. However, on the predictably contentious issue of financing, they avoided concrete decisions by calling for a Secretary-Generals report in two years that would contain funding options for peacebuilding. Regarding the reports funding recommendations, the UNs large financial contributorssuch as the P5, Japan and Germany, which would be most affected by new assessed contributionsdo not support the proposals. They have argued that assessed contributions for the PBF could result in weakening what is considered the most successful entity of the UNs peacebuilding architecture, since this would create an oversight role for the Fifth Committee and likely reduce the PBFs flexibility and nimbleness. Part of the co-facilitators reasoning to seek further funding options from the Secretary-General was that the AGE report offered only one option. A stronger case could therefore be made for assessed contributions if this idea is determined to be the best of available options. On Council-PBC relations, the P5 believe that the Council should not be forced to engage with the PBC through a prescriptive resolution. They argue that the Council will engage with the PBC naturally as the PBC demonstrates its added value. Other members argue that the PBC can only show its impact if the Council becomes more committed to working with it. Tension has long existed between the P5 and the PBC in part due to a perception that countries such as Brazil, Germany and Japan want to use the PBC to have a greater influence on peace and security issues, which the P5 view as the prerogative of the Security Council. Russia has appeared to be resistant to some of the ideas introduced by the AGE report, including expanding the PBCs original mandate. Co-facilitator Angola has been trying to create support for the text from Non-Aligned Movement states, as some of this groupings members have also expressed concerns over some of the reports concepts for peacebuilding, such as the impact of conflict prevention on sovereignty. EU members have additionally had difficulty developing common positions, particularly over funding and Council-PBC relations. UN Documents on Peacebuilding This resolution welcomed the report on the first five-year review of the UNs peacebuilding architecture and called for a further review in 2015. This resolution created the PBC and the Fund. The statement was on a comprehensive approach to peacebuilding. This was the report of the Advisory Group of Experts for the 2015 review of the UN Peacebuilding Architecture. This contained the terms of reference for the 2015 peacebuilding review. This was an open debate on the 2015 review of the UN peacebuilding architecture. AFRICA Somalia Expected Council Action In March, the Council is due to extend the UN Assistance Mission in Somalia (UNSOM) before the current mandate expires on 30 March. Key Recent Developments On 28 January, Michael Keating, the Secretary-Generals new Special Representative for Somalia, who succeeded Nicholas Kay in January, and Francisco Caetano Jose Madeira, the new Special Representative of the AU for Somalia and head of the AU Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), briefed the Council. The day before, the Somali government announced that it had made a decision on the model for the electoral process. According to the so-called Mogadishu Declaration agreed by the National Consultative Forum on 16 December 2015, the electoral model should have been presented at a ceremony in Kismayo on 10 January. The delay in reaching an agreement had caused concern among Somalias international partners, who had called for a decision to be made before the 28 January Council meeting, but up until the last minute it was unclear whether this would happen. In his briefing, Keating referred to the decision on the electoral model as a watershed moment. He said that the model entailed a lower house of 275 members, based on the 4.5 power-sharing formula, which gives an equal share to each of the four major clans while a coalition of smaller clans gets half a share, and an upper house of 54 members, based on equal representation of the federal member states and the allocation of additional seats to Puntland and Somaliland. He stressed, however, that much work remained to agree on details regarding implementation of the model, and a political road map for the period 2016 to 2020 with universal elections as the end goal. He noted the importance of continued international support, including from the Council. Madeira also welcomed progress on the political front, but referring to the two most recent attacks by the Islamist rebel group Al-Shabaabthe 15 January attack against the AMISOM base in El-Adde and the 22 January attack against a restaurant in Mogadishu, which were condemned in two separate Council press statementshe acknowledged that the security situation remained difficult and that AMISOMs capacity was overstretched. In order to strengthen implementation of AMISOMs mandate, Madeira called for enhanced international support for the creation of a capable, legitimate and inclusive Somali National Army (SNA); better coordination among AMISOM, UNSOM and the UN Support Office in Somalia (UNSOS); and the provision of additional enablers to the mission, such as helicopters. He announced that the AU would organise a summit meeting for the troop-contributing countries (TCCs) to discuss command and control issues, the provision of additional enablers and enhanced overall coordination. (The meeting was held on 28 February.) In addition, highlighting the funding gap resulting from the EUs decision to cut the allowances for uniformed personnel by 20 percent as of 1 January, Madeira urged the Council to consider alternative funding mechanisms to support AMISOM, including financial support from the UN, individual Council members and other stakeholders. In a press statement on the day of the meeting, Council members welcomed the decision on an electoral model and the governments commitment to hold an electoral process in 2016, while recalling their expectation that there should be no further extension of the electoral timelines and underlining the importance of completing the electoral process and the constitutional review. They reiterated their condemnation of the recent Al-Shabaab attacks, underlined the importance of continuing offensive operations against the rebel group by AMISOM and the SNA in a well-coordinated manner and in line with the qualitative improvements requested in resolution 2232, and welcomed the planned AMISOM TCC meeting. They also stressed the importance of rapidly developing the capacity of the SNA as well as Somali police. On 18 February, Kenya announced that it had killed Al-Shabaabs deputy commander, Mahad Karate, in an 8 February airstrike, along with 42 other Al-Shabaab fighters. Karate was believed to have played a major role in the 15 January attack against AMISOM. On 19 February, the AU said that Ethiopia and Kenya had offered to deploy helicopters to AMISOM. (The Council has authorised the deployment of up to 12 military helicopters, but at present the mission has none.) It is understood that the offer is for a total of six helicopters. On 23 and 24 February, the high-level partnership forum met in Istanbul to review progress against the New Deal Compact for Somalia agreed in September 2013. In a communique covering all relevant issues, participants underlined among other things the importance of a timely implementation of the electoral process and their strong expectation that there should be no extension of the term limits of the legislature and executive. They urged the government and regional authorities to make every effort to ensure that Puntland would participate in the electoral process. (Puntland has not accepted the electoral model and was not present at the forum.) The humanitarian situation seemed to deteriorate. On 8 February, the Office of the Resident and Humanitarian Coordinator for Somalia said that the food insecurity and malnutrition situation was alarming, with 4.7 million, or almost 40 percent, of the Somali population in need of humanitarian assistance. It noted that the level of malnutrition was particularly severe among children, with nearly 305,000 acutely malnourished children under the age of five. Sanctions-Related Developments On 18 February, the chair of the 751/1907 Somalia/Eritrea Sanctions Committee, Ambassador Rafael Dario Ramirez Carreno (Venezuela), briefed the Council on the work of the Committee. In the past, briefings on the work of the Committee have always taken place in consultations, but at the initiative of Venezuela, which has held the chairmanship since 1 January 2015, the briefing was held in public for the first time. The Committee had not met since 9 October 2015, when it discussed the final reports of its Monitoring Group under resolution 2244. In the February briefing, Ramirez focused on the Monitoring Groups findings and also said that the Committee was considering a draft implementation note on the arms embargo, with publication expected in March. Key Issues A key issue for the Council is assessing progress in the implementation of resolution 2232 and whether to make any changes in UNSOMs mandate. In particular, this includes consideration of the implementation of the resolutions provisions regarding UNSOM, such as strengthening the relationship between the mission and AMISOM, and expanding its presence in the rest of the country to support peace and reconciliation efforts and political processes. It also involves assessing progress in the implementation of the qualitative improvements referred to in the 28 January press statement aimed at enabling a surge in AMISOMs efficiency, further strengthening the capacity and coordination of Somali security forces and finalising the Somali national security sector architecture. More generally, immediate key issues include the continuing threat posed by Al-Shabaab, implementation of the recently agreed model for the 2016 electoral process, completion of the new federal structure and constitutional review, the protection of civilians and the alarming humanitarian situation. On the sanctions front, a key issue is whether the measures against Eritrea should be lifted in light of the absence of any evidence of Eritrean support for Al-Shabaab, as reported by the Somalia-Eritrea Monitoring Group. Options The main option for the Council is to adopt a resolution renewing UNSOMs mandate without any changes either for one year or for a shorter period, and reiterating some of the key points of the high-level partnership forum communique. A further option is to revise the sanctions measures against Eritrea. At the Sanctions Committee level, one option is to issue an implementation assistance notice on the arms embargo as requested by resolution 2244. Another option is to hold a joint meeting with the 1267/1989/2253 ISIL (Daesh)/Al-Qaida Sanctions Committee. A further option is for the chair to visit the region. Council Dynamics The Council remains largely united on Somalia. At press time negotiations on the resolution renewing UNSOMs mandate had yet to begin, but no changes were expected. However, the resolution was seen as an opportunity to send key messages to Somali leaders about the importance of implementing the electoral process according to the agreed timelines and address other key issues discussed at the recent meeting of the High Level Partnership Forum. It seems the mandate will probably be extended for a full year. In general, Council members seem particularly concerned about the security situation and the continued strength of Al-Shabaab. This was reflected during the 28 January consultations with Keating, when members raised questions about AMISOMs performance and wanted more information about measures to enhance its effectiveness. The Council may use the upcoming UNSOM resolution to express these concerns and reiterate the need to strengthen efforts aimed at stabilising the security situation, but there will be another opportunity to review the situation in May when the Council is due to adopt a resolution renewing the authorisation of AMISOM. On the sanctions side, the 18 February briefing on the work of the Committee seemed to show a growing divide between members who believe the Council should consider lifting the measures against Eritrea, such as Angola, China, Russia and Venezuela, and those who remain concerned about Eritreas other activities in the region and seem to view cooperation with the Monitoring Group as a precondition for any changes in the sanctions regime. The UK is the penholder on Somalia. UN Documents renewed the Monitoring Groups mandate. extended UNSOMs mandate until 30 March 2016 and reauthorised AMISOM through 30 May 2016. was the briefing on the work of the Sanctions Committee was the briefing by Keating and Madeira. was the most recent quarterly report on Somalia. welcomed the decision on an electoral model. condemned the Al-Shabaab attack in Mogadishu. condemned the Al-Shaabab attack against AMISOM. was the Monitoring Groups latest report on Eritrea. was the Monitoring Groups latest report on Somalia. Status Update Boko Haram On 2 February, Council members issued a press statement condemning the 30 January Boko Haram attacks (SC/12233). Sudan (Darfur) On 4 February, Council members held consultations on the work of the 1591 Sudan Sanctions Committee. Ambassador Rafael Ramirez (Venezuela), chair of the Committee, briefed on the Panel of Experts final report, which at press time was not yet public. On 10 February, the Council adopted resolution 2265, renewing the mandate of the Panel until 12 March 2017 (S/PV.7619). Guinea-Bissau On 4 February, Council members were briefed under any other business by Assistant Secretary-General for Political Affairs Taye-Brooke Zerihoun on Guinea-Bissaus political crisis. On 17 February, the Council was briefed by Special Representative Miguel Trovoada (S/PV.7624), who presented the Secretary-Generals six-month report on Guinea-Bissau (S/2016/141). The chair of the Guinea-Bissau configuration of the Peacebuilding Commission, Ambassador Antonio Patriota (Brazil), also briefed. Council members issued press elements expressing concern over the tensions within the PAIGC and national institutions and calling on political leaders to resume dialogue. Council members decided to include a visit to Guinea-Bissau as part of a broader Council visiting mission early in March. On 26 February, the Council adopted a resolution renewing the mandate of UNIOGBIS for one year (S/RES/2267). UNRCCA (Central Asia) On 4 February, Special Representative and head of UNRCCA, Petko Draganov, briefed Council members in consultations. Following recent Council practice, Russia proposed a press statement but Council members failed to reach agreement. This was also the case the last time they were briefed by Draganov on 8 September 2015, due to divisions over whether to add new language relating to UNRCCAs cooperation with regional organisations. Israel/Palestine There were three briefings under any other business in February, all at the request of Venezuela. DPA briefed on illegal settlements and the demolition of Palestinian houses on 5 February and on Israeli settlements in the occupied territories and international protection to Palestinian people there on 16 February. OCHA head Stephen OBrien briefed on the humanitarian situation and the situation of Palestinian children on 25 February. Following the 5 February briefing, Venezuela circulated a draft press statement on the issues discussed. However, consensus could not be reached and the statement was not issued. On 18 February, Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman briefed the Council during the regular monthly meeting on the Middle East, which was followed by consultations (S/PV.7627). Counter-terrorism On 9 February, the Council was briefed by Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman on UN counter-terrorism efforts against the Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant (S/PV.7618). The briefing was based on a 29 January Secretary-Generals report on the threat posed by ISIL to international peace and security and the range of UN efforts in support of member states in countering the threat (S/2016/92). Central African Republic On 9 February, the Council adopted resolution 2264 to increase the number of corrections officers in MINUSCA from 40 to 108. Burundi On 10 February, Council members were briefed by Special Adviser Jamal Benomar in consultations on the situation in Burundi. In late February, Council members negotiated a draft presidential statement that expressed the Councils intention to strengthen the UNs presence in Burundi. However at press time, agreement had not been reached and it was unclear if the statement would be adopted. Western Sahara On 10 February, at the request of Venezuela, Under-Secretary-General for Political Affairs Jeffrey Feltman briefed Council members under any other business on the proposed visit of the Secretary-General to the region. Working Methods On 11 February, the Security Council held a debate titled Working Methods of Security Council Subsidiary Organs (S/PV.7620). It was organised on the initiative of Venezuela, who had circulated a concept note for the debate (S/2016/102). Deputy Permanent Representative of Chile, Carlos Olguin Cigarroa, and Ambassador Olof Skoog of Sweden briefed. Cigarroa briefed on behalf of Ambassador Cristian Barros who chaired the 1572 Cote dIvoire and 2206 South Sudan Sanctions Committees, as well as the Informal Working Group on International Tribunals during Chiles 2014-15 term as an elected Council member. Sweden was one of the five main sponsors of the High-Level Review of UN Sanctions launched in May 2014, which resulted in the publication of a compendium that was submitted to the Council in June 2015 (S/2015/432). In addition to Council members, representatives of the Central African Republic, Cote dIvoire, Eritrea, Iran, Libya and Sudan spoke as countries affected by sanctions. As a follow-up to the debate, a note by the president of the Council issued on 22 February (S/2016/170) outlined a set of measures aimed at improving the transparency of the Councils subsidiary organs, improving the selection process and the preparation of chairs and improving the interaction and coordination among subsidiary organs and between the Council and the subsidiary organs. Mali On 12 February, Council members issued a press statement condemning a terrorist attack against MINUSMA that killed seven peacekeepers from Guinea (SC/12240). Open Debate on the UN Charter On 15 February, the Council held a ministerial-level open debate on the topic of respect for the principles and purposes of the UN Charter (S/PV.7621). Foreign Minister Delcy Rodriguez Gomez of Venezuela presided, while Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon briefed. In preparation for the debate, Venezuela circulated a concept note to help guide the discussion (S/2016/103). While no Council decision came out of the debate, Venezuela intends to produce a summary of the discussion. Yemen On 16 February, OCHA head Stephen OBrien briefed the Council on the humanitarian situation in Yemen (S/PV.7622). Following consultations, Council members issued press elements urging all parties to fulfill their obligations under international humanitarian law, and to facilitate the delivery of commercial goods, humanitarian assistance and fuel for civilian purposes to all parts of Yemen. The following day, Special Envoy Ismael Ould Cheikh Ahmed briefed the Council reporting that he had not received sufficient assurances that a new cessation of hostilities would be respected (S/PV.7625). Ambassador Motohide Yoshikawa (Japan) also briefed as chair of the 2140 Yemen Sanctions Committee on the recent consideration of the final report of the Committees Panel of Experts (S/2016/73). Council members issued a press statement that expressed serious concern over Yemens humanitarian crisis, and urged all parties to the conflict in Yemen to take urgent steps towards resuming a ceasefire (SC/12250). On 24 February, the Council adopted resolution 2266, renewing the Yemen sanctions measures until 26 February 2017 and the mandate of the Panel of Experts until 27 March 2017. Iraq On 16 February, Special Representative Jan Kubis briefed the Council (S/PV.7623) and presented the Secretary-Generals reports on UNAMI (S/2016/77) and on Iraq/Kuwait missing persons and property (S/2016/87). Sudan/South Sudan On 18 February, Special Envoy Haile Menkerios briefed Council members via video teleconference on the implementation of resolution 2046 on Sudan/South Sudan issues. On 25 February, Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs Stephen OBrien briefed Council members on the humanitarian situation in Sudan and South Sudan under any other business. Following the meeting, press elements were issued in which Council members expressed concern about the deteriorating humanitarian situation in both countries. South Sudan On 19 February, the Council held a briefing, followed by consultations, on the situation in South Sudan and on UNMISS, as well as on the work of the 2206 South Sudan Sanctions Committee (S/PV.7628). The meeting included a discussion of the most recent UNMISS report (S/2016/138) and the final report of the Committees Panel of Experts (S/2016/70). Regarding the situation in South Sudan and UNMISS, briefings by video teleconference were made by Deputy Special Representative Moustapha Soumare; Chairman of the Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Committee Festus Mogae; and Assistant Secretary-General for Human Rights Ivan Simonovic. Ambassador Fode Seck (Senegal), the Chair of the 2206 South Sudan Sanctions Committee, briefed on the Sanctions Committees work. Also on 19 February, Council members issued a press statement condemning the violence in the Malakal protection of civilians site that resulted in the deaths of 18 people (SC/12252). Peacebuilding On 23 February, the Council held an open debate on the 2015 review of the UN peacebuilding architecture (S/PV.7629). Briefings were provided by the Peacebuilding Commission current chair, Ambassador Macharia Kamau (Kenya), and by last years chair, Ambassador Olof Skoog (Sweden). Gert Rosenthal, the Chair of the Advisory Group of Experts on the 2015 Review of the Peacebuilding Architecture, also briefed. In total, representatives of 48 member states and regional organisations delivered statements. Remarks focused on the findings of the 29 June 2015 report of the Advisory Group of Experts (S/2015/490). Myanmar On 25 February, at the request of the UK, Special Adviser Vijay Nambiar briefed Council members under any other business. A representative from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights was present to answer questions. Nambiar focused on the political transition, the peace process and the human rights situation. Earlier in the month, on 4 February, the UK sent a letter to the Council president requesting the retention of the situation in Myanmar on the list of items of which the Council is seized (S/2016/113). International Criminal Tribunals On 25 February, Council members were briefed under any other business on the Secretary-Generals nominations for the president and prosecutor of the International Residual Mechanism for Criminal Tribunals by Stephen Mathias, Assistant Secretary-General for Legal Affairs, after Russia expressed its opposition to the nominations. On 29 February, the Council adopted resolution 2269 appointing Serge Brammertz as the prosecutor of the Mechanism with effect from 1 March until 30 June 2018. OSCE On 29 February, the Council was briefed by German Minister of Foreign Affairs Frank-Walter Steinmeier, the Chairperson-in-Office of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe. Steinmeier presented the main priorities of the OSCE in 2016 and addressed the crisis in Ukraine (S/PV.7635). Kosovo On 29 February, Special Representative Zahir Tanin briefed (S/PV.7637) the Council on Kosovo and the most recent UNMIK report (S/2016/99). At the meeting, Serbia was represented by Ivica Dacic, First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Serbia, while Kosovo was represented by its ambassador to the US, Vlora Citaku. Press Release February 29, 2016 ANGARA TO PRESIDENTIABLES: BARE PLANS ON HOW TO SUSTAIN PH TOURISM GROWTH With the success of the "It's More Fun in the Philippines" campaign, Senator Sonny Angara has called on the presidential candidates to make tourism development a priority and to present their plans on how to sustain Philippine tourism's significant growth over the past years. "Sana ang susunod na presidente ay mag-focus sa turismo, lalung-lalo na sa infrastructure development. Kahit anong galing ng promotions o slogan natin, limitado pa din ang pagsulong ng turismo dahil sa kakulangan sa imprastruktura at pasilidad. There's so much room to strengthen and grow this sector," said Angara, vice chairman of the Senate tourism committee. According to the latest data of the Department of Tourism (DOT), the Philippines has surpassed the five-million foreign tourist arrivals as the country welcomed a total of 5.36 million foreign visitors in 2015. This translates to an 11-percent growth from the 4.83 million foreign visitors in 2014. The senator, however, lamented that while visitor arrivals in the country continue to rise, the Philippines accounted for only 1.8 percent of international tourist arrivals in the Asia-Pacific region in 2014, lagging behind its Southeast Asian neighbors Vietnam (3 percent), Indonesia (3.6 percent), Singapore (4.5 percent), Thailand (9.4 percent) and Malaysia (10.4 percent), based on the data from the United Nations World Tourism Organization. "We have to get our act together so as not to put to waste all the good work done by the DOT in promoting our country. We need to build the necessary infrastructure, fix our airports, and improve road networks," Angara said. The lawmaker, who was one of the authors of the Tourism Act of 2009 which helped gear the Philippines not only as a premiere travel destination but also as an investment haven for domestic and foreign investors, further stressed the potential of the tourism industry as a major economic driver and job generator for the country. In 2014, tourism generated direct and indirect employment for 4.2 million Filipinos, based on the World Travel and Tourism Council's Economic Impact 2015 study. "Kung mapapalago pa natin ang industriya ng turismo sa bansa, mas maraming Pilipino ang mabibigyan ng trabaho at oportunidad na makaahon sa kahirapan, lalung-lalo na sa mga kanayunan na unti-unti nang nakikilala bilang tourist destinations sa bansa. Ito sana ang isa sa mga makitang solusyon ng ating mga presidentiable laban sa talamak na unemployment sa bansa," he said. In a recent traveltour expo organized by the Philippine Travel Agencies Association, Angara, in his speech, also pointed out that certain Filipino traits are tailor-made for tourism. "The Philippines boasts of pristine beaches, lush greenery, incredible dive sites, vibrant cities and historic landmarks. But more than the destinations, the Filipino people are our main attraction. As one of the happiest, most fun-loving people on earth, Filipinos are among the world's best hosts. Sabi nga ni Miss Universe Pia Wurtzbach, 'We are confidently beautiful with a heart. "This is why we want to inculcate the culture of service and hospitality in every Filipino as we welcome more foreign visitors not just because we are happy to do it, but because we know that our countrymen will be greatly benefitted by this," Angara said. Advocates of low-cost housing scored a legal victory Monday when the U.S. Supreme Court left intact a ruling by Californias highest court allowing cities and counties to require builders to include a percentage of affordable units in each new development. The building industry had argued that those requirements amount to a government confiscation of property and should be allowed only if a particular development would cause a shortage of affordable housing. The state Supreme Court rejected those arguments unanimously in June, and the nations high court denied review Monday. The case involved a San Jose ordinance, passed in 2010 but not yet in effect, that requires developers of 20 or more units to make at least 15 percent of those units affordable to low- or moderate-income buyers and renters. Similar laws are in effect in more than 170 California communities, including San Francisco, Berkeley, Richmond and unincorporated areas of Contra Costa, Marin and San Mateo counties. San Francisco requires builders of 10 or more housing units to include at least 12 percent affordable housing or pay a fee. The Board of Supervisors is scheduled to vote Tuesday on whether to ask voters in June to increase that allotment to 25 percent. The court action strengthens us both legally and politically, said Supervisor Aaron Peskin, who supports a 25 percent requirement. He said the decision should also allow San Francisco to bolster affordable housing by eliminating the fee option, although no such proposal is on the table. Supervisor Scott Wiener, who opposes increasing the housing quota to 25 percent, said nonetheless that affordable-housing laws are needed to make sure that low-income and middle-income people can stay in our cities, and that Mondays court action properly allows elected officials and the voters, not the courts, to determine city policy. A lawyer for the California Building Industry Association, which challenged the San Jose ordinance, said the Supreme Courts rebuff would mean that fewer homes get built, and the price of market-rate housing goes up, squeezing more and more buyers out of the market. There is no excuse for forcing property owners in this case, the builders of new homes to foot the bill for problems they didnt cause, such as the affordable-housing shortage, said the attorney, Brian Hodges of the Pacific Legal Foundation. In its 7-0 ruling in June, the state Supreme Court said cities can legally regulate land use to protect the public welfare, even if the rules reduce builders profits. Laws like the San Jose ordinance are a valid response to the scarcity of affordable housing, said Chief Justice Tani Cantil-Sakauye. No U.S. Supreme Court justices dissented publicly from the decision to leave the California ruling intact. One justice, Clarence Thomas, said the Constitution would not allow a government agency to impose such a requirement on its own, and he expressed doubt that a city council or other legislative body has any more authority. But that issue may not have been raised adequately in this case, Thomas said. The case is California Building Industry Association vs. San Jose, 15-330. Bob Egelko is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: begelko@sfchronicle.com Twitter:@egelko Techies and startups have long been blamed for helping to push families out of San Francisco, with skyrocketing property values and the highest cost of living in the country. But a study released Monday found that even tech workers may not be able to afford to raise a family in the City by the Bay. Its raising a familiar question for San Francisco: Is the city doing enough to attract and keep families? The Indeed Hiring Lab study, which tracked job searches by tech workers, saw the number of workers age 31 to 40 looking for a job in a different part of the country increased by 12 percent in the past year. The research institute, which tracks patterns in the job market, said it was the biggest increase of any age group, though overall the number of tech workers looking for jobs far away from the Bay Area grew by about 8 percent. Thats likely because workers 31 to 40 are at an age when theyre likely to have a family to worry about, which can add to financial stress and cost of living, researchers said. A similar survey by Redfin, a real estate agency, found that over the past five years, the number of people searching for homes outside the Bay Area has multiplied: In 2011, the agency found, 1 in 7 people searched its website for homes elsewhere. In 2015, it was 1 in 4. Economist Daniel Culbertson, who conducted the Indeed research, said he hasnt polled the workers to find out their specific reasons for wanting out, but given the places they were looking to move San Diego, Austin and Atlanta among them he guessed that cost of living was a driving force. The biggest thing is the housing market in San Francisco is among the most expensive in the world, Culbertson said. Based on what were hearing anecdotally, thats a factor. The median asking rent in San Francisco is $4,225, and rising. According to the Childrens Council of San Francisco, full-time child care for a family with an infant and a 4-year-old costs an average of more than $40,000 a year. By some estimates, a family needs about $200,000 per year to live comfortably in the city. Though techies are often assumed to make that much and more most dont, said Gabriel Metcalf, president of the urban policy research group SPUR. A lot of the people that we think of as working in tech dont have so much money that they can just live wherever they want to live, without worrying about cost, Metcalf said. Fundamentally, theyre subject to the same trade-off that other middle-class families are in this city: San Francisco is a wonderful place to have a family if you can afford it. Tech jobs in San Francisco and Silicon Valley pay more than in other cities, according to Indeeds data, but it may not be enough to offset how much it costs to live here. A software engineer in San Francisco makes an average of $128,000 per year, according to Indeed. Comparatively, software developers make about $95,000 in San Diego and $119,000 in Atlanta. But the median price of a home in San Francisco has risen to more than $1.1 million, while a home in San Diego costs an average of $531,000 and in Atlanta the average price is $182,100. By far, the greatest problem for families in this city is cost of living. Full stop, Metcalf said. If it werent so expensive, we would have more families being able to make the choice to stay here. The number of San Francisco families with kids has long been notoriously low. In 2000, about 14.5 percent of San Franciscos population was under the age of 18. Today, according to the latest census numbers, kids make up about 13.4 percent of the population far fewer than the 25 percent statewide. Mayor Ed Lee has introduced a variety of efforts to aid San Franciscos families and shrinking middle class proposing housing for public school teachers, offering loans to 1,500 middle-income families seeking to purchase their own homes, constructing 30,000 housing units by 2020 and earmarking half for low- and middle-income families. He also meets monthly with the citys newly created Our Children, Our Families Council, a body of politicians and residents that sets benchmarks and facilitates programs designed to improve the quality of life for the youth and families of San Francisco. Maria Su, director of the Department of Children, Youth and Their Families, said the city has made strides in the past several years toward becoming more welcoming and livable for families. She pointed to the city and school districts collaboration on after-school programs and pre-K. She highlighted the citys network of public parks and recreation as benefits to families. I do believe things have gotten better, Su said. Theres an understanding across different departments that these are our children. Theyre not city children, theyre not school district children, they are ours, and if we want to serve and improve the lives of all our children and their families, we need to have hard conversations. But, she added, the impact of San Franciscos rising cost of living is impossible to ignore. Cost of living is of course extremely high, she said. I live in the city, Im raising two children in the city. I understand, and I feel it too. And were all just trying to do the best we can. Marissa Lang is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: mlang@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @Marissa_Jae Investigators are looking into whether a drive-by shooting in San Franciscos Bayview neighborhood that left a 27-year-old man critically injured, touched off two other incidents in which shots were exchanged between moving vehicles, officials said. Just before midnight Friday, officers responded to reports of gunshots on the 1600 block of Newcomb Avenue, about a block off Third Street, said Officer Albie Esparza, a police spokesman. The first officers on the scene found the victim, who was not identified, suffering from multiple gunshot wounds, Esparza said. Investigators believe the victim was walking on Newcomb when a group of four men drove by in an early-2000s model white Toyota Camry and opened fire. The victim was taken to a nearby hospital, but was suffering from life-threatening injuries, Esparza said. About 20 minutes later in the Excelsior neighborhood, police received reports of gunfire exchanged between two vehicles near the corner of Avalon and Peru avenues. No victims were found, but officers collected shell casings from the scene of the shooting. About 10 minutes after the second shooting, a 34-year-old man was sitting in a car at a stop sign near the intersection of De Long and Crystal streets in the Ingleside neighborhood, when someone in a white, 4-door sedan began firing on him, Esparza said. The shooter fled and the man wasnt injured, but investigators collected shell casings from the scene. Esparza said police didnt have any evidence the shootings were related, but given the time, proximity of the incidents and similar description of the vehicles involved, investigators hadnt ruled anything out. Investigators encouraged anyone with information about any of the incidents to contact police at (415) 575-4444. Kale Williams is a San Francisco Chronicle staff writer. Email: kwilliams@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @sfkale Jacom Stephens/Getty Image Santa Clara County sheriffs deputies arrested a man possibly suffering from mental illness after he allegedly crashed his car into a home in Los Gatos Monday morning and then began threatening officers with a knife and some gas cans, authorities said. The crash that led to the confrontation happened around 6:50 a.m., said Sgt. James Jensen, a spokesman for the Sheriffs Office, when the man, who was not identified, crashed into either his home or the home of a family member near Black Road and Highway 17. Chris Rock, wearing a white dinner jacket, delivered what will be one of the most remembered opening monologues in the 88-year history of the Oscars on Sunday night from the stage of the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. It was funny, it was smart and, most of all, when you stopped laughing, it should have made you think. No one could have asked for more. For weeks, everyone wondered what he would say about the fact that there are no African Americans among this years nominees for the acting categories. Would Rock even go through with the hosting gig? Or would he follow others like Jada Pinkett Smith and Spike Lee and boycott the ceremony? Well, Rock showed up, and then some. Comically, he killed in his opening monologue, but it will still cause controversy among those who think the issue of racism in Hollywood is no laughing matter. It isnt, but then again, humor doesnt always trivialize its targets: It can also nudge us toward considering those issues from different points of view. From the moment Rock called the Oscars The White Peoples Choice Awards, through the moment he greeted the audience after a commercial with the line, Ah, and were black, Rock was brilliant and in control. He wondered aloud why this years Oscars are so controversial. Since the Academy Awards have been handed out for 88 years, that means that this whole black-nominees thing has happened at least 71 other times. Black people didnt protest the all-white list of nominees in the 50s and 60s, he said, because we were too busy being raped and lynched. When your grandmother is swinging from a tree, its really hard to care about best cinematography short, he cracked. He never let up, and in the process of slinging one brilliant joke after another, managed to do the seemingly impossible: He both homed in on the real basis of the controversy and temporarily defused it. The real issue, he said via a joke about attending a Hollywood fundraiser for President Obama, is that the industry is filled with writers, producers and actors who dont hire black people but are the nicest people on Earth. Theyre liberals. Fantasy casts The Oscars attempt to defuse the controversy with humor continued with a hilarious montage, reimagining several Oscar-nominated films recast with African American actors. Tracy Morgan in full drag as The Danish Girl? Whoopi Goldberg doing a walk-on in Joy as a mop-slinging cleaning lady; Chris Rock marooned in space a la The Martian, while Jeff Daniels and Kristen Wiig bemoaned the cost of having to bring the black astronaut back to Earth. The montage was effective, and yet you may have watched it with the thought that actors in the original films, people like Jennifer Lawrence, Matt Damon and Eddie Redmayne no doubt among those previously cited nicest people on Earth should have enough clout in the industry to demand that more African Americans and other people of color be hired for their films. Another effective segment came with Angela Bassett doing a mock Black History Moment, in which she seemed to be walking up to honoring Will Smith but instead cited the contributions of Jack Black. There was a minimum of direct speechifying about the diversity issue, although Kevin Hart, introducing a best song performance by the Weeknd, took a moment to applaud all my actors and actresses of color who werent nominated. These problems of today will eventually become problems of the old, he said, as if trying to explain why he wasnt boycotting the ceremony. Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs did what she had to do, offering a rose-colored We Are the World-style speech about the academys plan to increase diversity over the next few years. Everyone in the Hollywood community has a role to play, she said, so that we can accurately reflect the world today. Translation: The academy can do only so much until those aforementioned nicest people on Earth decide that theyll hire people of color behind and in front of the cameras. To my mind, the moment when every white person in Hollywood should have stopped laughing came when Rock went to a movie theater in Compton and interviewed audience members, seeking their opinions on the nominated films Trumbo, Spotlight, etc. No one had ever heard of those movies. Yeah, it was funny, but it also reminded Hollywood that by failing to make a real effort to diversify its films, it is telling an enormous segment of the American population that its money isnt needed. Rock was an equal opportunity humorist with his diversity-based jokes. At the usual point when the academys accountant PricewaterhouseCoopers is announced, two Asian kids and a kid named David Moskowitz walked on stage with tiny briefcases. If anybodys upset about that joke, just tweet about it on your phone, which was also made by these kids, Rock quipped. Aside from Rock and the strategy of facing the diversity controversy with humor, how was the show itself? Actually, not bad. The academy tried to keep up the pace of the show with a new gimmick: For the first time, as winners made their way to the stage, the people, pets and deities they wanted to thank were scrolled across the bottom of the screen. Well, nice try, academy (something well probably be saying next year when there still wont be enough people of color in the nominees list). The scrolling didnt do that much to cut down on the onstage bloviating, and it still ran late. Time to get serious What everyone will be talking about on Monday, and perhaps for a while, is whether humor was appropriate or effective in addressing the academys problem with diversity. To be sure, it would have bombed if an African American host hadnt set the pace with such brilliance. Fortunately, the white Oscar winners seemed to know better than to chance being seen as disingenuous by talking about the diversity issue, when many of them, in fact, have been lax in doing something about the problem. Jokes aside, as it were, the humor may have been entertaining and diverting for a few hours Sunday night. But now its time for the film industry to stop laughing and get serious about diversity. In fact, its well past time. David Wiegand is an assistant managing editor and the TV critic of The San Francisco Chronicle. Email: dwiegand@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @WaitWhat_TV BirminghamWatch and, Public Radio WBHM 90.3 FM, Starnes Publishing,, andcollaborated to offer an interactive, factual, nonpartisan voter guide. It includes candidate profiles, sample ballots, answers about issues, campaign contributor lists, info on where to vote, and more.Presented by the Secretary of State John H. Merrill, this site covers topics such as voter registration, the dates of the elections, and the voting procedures. There are links to sample ballots and the 2016 voter guide.The League of Women Voters, a nonpartisan political organization, encourages informed and active participation in government, works to increase understanding of major public policy issues, and influences public policy through education and advocacy. While Hollywoods biggest stars are busy gracing the red carpet and getting to their seats for the 88th Academy Awards show at Dolby Theatre in Hollywood on Sunday, Lady Gaga took time on Twitter to support her fellow entertainers. The TiK ToK pop star is in the midst of a legal battle with Dr. Luke, a producer who she alleges raped and abused her for years. Dr. Luke contributed to Take It Off by Ke$ha, among other hit songs. At face level, located on a removed swath of boarded up buildings, hangars, and parking lots in Alameda, a small island town off the coast of San Francisco, the St. George Spirits facility may seem like just another gray box among many. But step inside and you enter a Wonka factory. The Chile Vodka tastes like fresh chiles, the Pear Brandy tastes like the crispest pear, the snozzberries taste like snozzberries, and underlying every flavor and innovation is the Bay Area. Whatever tired stereotypes of San Francisco culture one may espouse, the Bay has long been a hotbed for culinary experimentation, and Northern California boasts culinary legends like Thomas Keller and Alice Waters, both of whom changed the way we eat and think about food. It's reasonable that the area would also become the birthplace of craft distilling in the U.S. with Jorg Rupf opening St. George Spirits in 1982. Rupf, a lawyer who traveled from his home in Germany to work in the Bay Area, cast aside his judicial career to become a godfather of sorts to craft distillation. What began as a DIY operation dedicated to replacing America's crude, syrupy version of Schnapps with the dry, flavor-forward brandy, eau de vie, became a thriving hub of craft spirits thanks to the Bay Areas booming food culture, and its wealth and quality of produce. "There's a certain sort of person that the Bay Area attracts, said St. George's master distiller and former nuclear scientist Lance Winters. "They tend to have well-developed, adventurous palates. These are exactly the sorts that we want to surround ourselves with at the distillery." RELATED: The Rise of West Coast Whiskey Eau de vie was just the beginning of St. George's deep dive into the region's produce. With its proximity to the Central Valley, which produces a quarter of the nation's food, and forty percent of its fruit, nuts, and other table foods, Rupf was inspired by the wealth of raw materials at his fingertips. That first dream of honoring the true flavors of the Bay's local produce through eau de vie remains present in St. George's current and rapidly expanding catalog, which now includes gin, vodka, whiskey, rum, and brandy. But it took experimentation to achieve the level of clarity Rupf was going for and, just as bold, regional flavors flow through the distillerys lifeblood, so does a love of trial and error, and of favoring innovation over tradition. "Our philosophy is not just to make something that's a serviceable example of a spirit category, but a bold reimagining of the category," said Winters. "Thatalong with our decades of experience in the fieldis what sets us apart." Within the company's love for experimentation lies the heart of the region--its taste for the eccentric, irreverent, and bold. St. George was one of the first American distilleries to experiment with absinthe in researching the thujone myth in relation to its illegality in the U.S. By the time the spirit was legalized, the company had developed an absinthe tested over a decade and originally based on a 19th century recipe for Pernod. While many of the experiments at the distillery fly the regions flag through locally sourced ingredients, only their Terroir Gin is stamped with that search for a flavor that smacks of the locale. "I was picking my son up from a day camp in the hills, and the aromas of fir, bay laurel, fennel, mulch, and sunbaked earth hit me in this really beautiful way. I vowed then and there to capture that profile in a spirit," said Winters. Forays into whisky, rum, and bourbon may seem like a detour from the pursuit of clear, raw flavors, but the distillation is still homegrown improv jazz, or, as Winters labels it, performance art. "You give them the best possible start, then they go into barrels with the best of intentions. Locally sourced barrels are great in as much as we know exactly what was in it and who put it there, which helps give us an idea of how that barrel might shape the spirit within," said Winters. It may not come as a shock that St. George also crafts unaged rum made from fresh California-grown sugarcane and advertised as "not for the faint of heart due to its intensity. While the distillery has discontinued its Breaking & Entering bourbon, which blended various Kentucky bourbons, St. George will continue to experiment with single malt whiskey and, with projects always underway, craft distillation as a whole. "We feel like distillation is a true art form, and as such we need to constantly explore the boundaries," said Winters. "You stop that sort of experimentation and exploration, it becomes a commodity and loses its soul." This article originally appeared on mensjournal.com: The Bay Area's Secret Spirit Renaissance This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Gene Palmer, the Clinton Correctional Facility guard accused of passing items two killers used to escape from prison June 7, pleaded guilty Monday to second-degree promotion of prison contraband to resolve his case. Clinton County Surrogate Court Judge Kevin Ryan immediately sentenced him to six months in jail and a $4,000 fine. Palmer's guilty plea, a reduction from a felony count of promoting prison contraband, resolved the only remaining prosecution in the escape of David Sweat and Richard Matt. Clinton County District Attorney Andrew Wylie said Palmer's guilty plea carried a maximum sentence of one year in prison and the requirement that he resign as a state correction officer. Wylie said Palmer has already filled out the paperwork for his resignation. Matt and Sweat spent months tunneling from their cells into the bowels of the Dannemora prison before breaking out. They evaded nearly 1,000 law enforcement authorities for three weeks. Matt was spotted in neighboring Franklin County on June 24. He was killed by border patrol after authorities said he raised a shotgun. Sweat was captured two days later when he was discovered and shot by a state trooper just miles from the Canadian border. Sweat pleaded guilty to escape charges and is now serving his sentence in a Finger Lakes prison. He already was serving a life sentence for killing a Broome County sheriff's deputy. Joyce Mitchell, the former civilian prison worker who enabled the June escape, was sentenced in September to up to seven years in prison for her role in the plot that captivated the nation. Palmer was accused of giving a screwdriver and pliers to the escapees. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Editor's note: An earlier version of this story misquoted Albany City Court Judge Rachel Kretser. She said, "This case has already done enough damage to the community." Albany A month after allegations of a racial assault on a CDTA bus, a police timeline revealed more details about the incident, and the three women accused of lying about it and attacking fellow passengers pleaded not guilty during an arraignment. Ariel Agudio, 20, of Huntington, Suffolk County; Alexis Briggs, 20, of Elmira Heights, Chemung County; and Asha Burwell, 20, of Huntington Station, Suffolk County, moved without comment through a throng of reporters Monday as they entered City Court. Judge Rachel Kretser said although the charges against the women are not felonies, she considers them serious. The charges "will have a profound impact on our community and, in fact if proven, are shameful," she said. The three women, who are black, claimed to have been attacked by a group of between 12 and 20 people, including white men, while some hurled racial slurs and others stood by and did nothing. Court documents, however, paint the three women as aggressors in a frantic scene on the CDTA bus Jan. 30. All three were charged with misdemeanor assault, punishable by up to one year in jail. Burwell and Agudio were also charged with misdemeanor falsely reporting an incident in connection with 911 calls they made to police immediately after the confrontation. A timeline by the University Police Department alleges that at 1:04 a.m., Burwell climbed over a seat and struck Mary Glisson in the head and face with her hands. Burwell then struck Gabrielle Camacho with her fist on the left side of Camacho's face, police said. Briggs jumped up from her seat and pulled passengers away from Burwell, the timeline said. Agudio climbed over a seat and struck Glisson in the head, according to the timeline. Agudio then struck Gabrielle Camacho in the head and pulled her sister Marissa Camacho's hair. At that point, Agudio noticed Robert McCarthy was filming the incident with his cellphone; she knocked the phone out of his hands, struck McCarthy in the head and face, then ground her hands into his face. Agudio allegedly struck McCarthy five more times before they were separated. She allegedly hit him in the face two more times before again being separated. Glisson suffered a neck injury as well as swelling and bruising on her face, police said. At 1:10 a.m., UPD reported receiving a 911 phone call from Burwell's cellphone. "Me and my friends were jumped on a bus because we are black," she said, and "Guys continuously hit us in the face." The UPD criminal complaint called these statements "false and baseless, and grossly different from the incident which actually occurred." Another complaint alleges Agudio was heard on a 911 audio stating, "I beat up a boy." The timeline was compiled by UPD Investigator Benjamin Nagy from CDTA bus footage, witness testimony, cellphone videos, medical documents and victim statements. During the arraignment, Burwell stood with her hands crossed behind her back as her mother and father watched from the gallery. Her attorney, Frederick Brewington of Hempstead, Nassau County, entered a not-guilty plea for Burwell and requested a jury trial. He requested no bail, saying Burwell was a "responsible young lady" who is not in school and staying with her parents. Kretser released Burwell under supervision, giving her a 9 p.m. curfew. Briggs stood silently with her hands crossed in front of her as she pleaded not guilty to all charges. Kretser released her under supervision, with allowances for her work shifts. Her attorney, public defender Will Little, said there was "no indication my client struck or attacked anyone." Agudio, who also faces one count each of attempted assault and attempted criminal mischief, pleaded not guilty and was released under supervision. She was described as a full-time student. Her attorney, Mark Mishler, demanded evidence and called for the case to be dismissed. The judge expressed a desire for a quick resolution. "This case has already done enough damage to the community," Kretser said. "It's like an open wound. And I want it resolved quickly so people can heal." She set a March 29 conference date for the three women. ANAHEIM Five Ku Klux Klan members who were arrested after a vicious brawl in Anaheim were released because evidence show they acted in self-defense, police said Sunday. Seven people who remained in custody were seen beating, stomping and attacking the Klansmen with wooden posts, police Sgt. Daron Wyatt said. A police statement said the clash, which erupted after six Klan members arrived at a park Saturday for a planned anti-immigration rally, was started by a larger group of 10 to 20 counterprotesters who had the intent of perpetrating violence. Police said the Klansmen stabbed three counter-protesters with knives and the decorative end of a flag pole. Regardless of an individual or groups beliefs or ideologies, they are entitled to live without the fear of physical violence and have the right, under the law, to defend themselves when attacked, the statement said. Mayhem ensued Saturday as soon as the Klan members pulled up in a black SUV for the rally they had advertised in advance and pulled out signs saying White Lives Matter. Dozens of protesters swarmed in and someone smashed a window. The SUV then sped away, leaving three Klansmen dressed in black shirts decorated with the Klan cross and Confederate flag patches outnumbered. The counter-protesters were so angry, they would have torn these folks limb from limb, said Brian Levin, who directs the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at Cal State San Bernardino. I was afraid for their lives. Levin, who went to Pearson Park expecting to record the rally for research, found himself protecting the Klansmen until police could intervene. On a video Levin shot and posted to Twitter, he later asked one of them, How do you feel that a Jewish person helped save your life today? I thank you. I thank you, said the Klansman, waving away the question with his blood-spattered arm. I would have saved a colored mans life, he added. The Klansmen were initially booked for investigation of assault with a deadly weapon, and seven of the approximately 30 counter-protesters were arrested on suspicion of assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury Like many other cities across the United States, Anaheim has a history intertwined with the KKK. What sets the city apart, however, is its decisive backlash after the Klan gained four of five City Council seats in 1924. Those Klansmen were ousted in a recall election after their affiliations with the Klan became public and following a nighttime KKK initiation rally that attracted an estimated 10,000 people to the city park where Saturdays violence erupted. The only reason we remember Anaheim for the Klan is because they fought the Klan so hard, said Phil Brigandi, an Orange County historian and author. The more the Klan came out of the shadows, the more people became aware of it and the opposition grew. In the near century since then, Anaheim has gone from 95 percent white to become 53 percent Latino and 27 percent white, according to data with the U.S. Census Bureau. St Lowitsch / Getty Images Officials are investigating whether a fire at a San Francisco playground over the weekend was started deliberately. Flames erupted around 6 p.m. Saturday on the mats of a playground near the Alemany housing project on the 900 block of Ellsworth Street. One witness told police that a boy around the age of 10 to 15 set the matting on fire, police said. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 5 1 of 5 Enterprise file photo Show More Show Less 2 of 5 Enterprise file photo Show More Show Less 3 of 5 4 of 5 Jefferson Co. Sheriff's Office Show More Show Less 5 of 5 A 19-year-old Port Arthur man was sentenced Monday to 25 years in prison in what prosecutors and advocates have called the worst child abuse case they have seen with a surviving victim. Darrell Mason, the father of an infant who was severely injured in 2013, had already reached a plea deal capping his punishment for the first-degree felony at 25 years. At one of the states major reservoirs -- Folsom Lake, east of Sacramento -- the volume of water spilling from the dam has swollen eight-fold in the past few weeks, sending billions of gallons downstream, much of it into San Francisco Bay. Early in February the reservoir reached a key threshold: 60 percent full, which is the highest water level allowed during the winter months, according to rules from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Sacramento Area Flood Control Agency. Last year, most of the reservoir was a dry, dusty lakebed. What reservoir was left was confined to the old river channels before we built the dam, says Drew Lessard of the U.S. Bureau of Reclamation, the federal agency that manages the reservoir. Just an average-size winter storm can send huge volumes of water down the American River into Folsom Reservoir, boosting the lake by 10 percent or more. A major storm can produce dramatically more than that. The watershed is pretty flashy and it responds pretty quickly to storm events, says Lessard. Thats why we need to reserve a space during those winter months in case that happens. Sitting 40 percent empty allows the reservoir to act as a buffer against floods, gulping the runoff without overflowing. In years where the upstream reservoirs are fuller, Folsom Reservoir is required to remain 60 percent empty. Releasing water downstream does produce benefits, supporting wildlife and endangered fish. It also prevents salt water from San Francisco Bay from backing up into the Sacramento-San Joaquin Delta, which is a drinking water supply for many in the Bay Area. But preemptively releasing water has its own risks, especially if it doesnt rain again, as happened in 1997. The reservoir was lowered and, it was dry the rest of the year and we never really rebounded, recalls Lessard. 'The rules that govern water in the West were created in the 19th century.' Marty Ralph, UCSD As California enters a fifth year of drought, seeing operators deliberately dumping water can be disconcerting. A few weeks ago, Shauna Lorance of the San Juan Water District near Sacramento went to state regulators with a message: when water is disappearing downriver, its hard for water consumers to take the conservation message seriously. Anything they conserve right now is not held, said Lorance. For me to explain to customers, after everything theyve done, that they need to continue to conserve so it can be spilled is going to be a nightmare. Smart Reservoirs The rules that govern water in the West were created in the 19th century, says Marty Ralph, who directs the Center for Western Weather and Water Extremes at UC San Diego. And yet here we live in the 21st century with its special and new needs: greater population and a changing climate. Ralph is piloting a more dynamic method of flood management at Lake Mendocino with the Sonoma County Water Agency. Instead of a maintaining firm limits on reservoir levels dictated by the calendar, managers would use cutting-edge weather forecasts to gauge how much flood space they need. Weather predictions have been improving over the last decades, said Ralph. Particularly on the West Coast, weve learned about the phenomenon that produces most flood-producing storms. We call them atmospheric rivers. Instead of emptying out a reservoir preemptively, managers would allow the reservoir to stay fuller, keeping an eye on the weather forecast. If a big storm appears, theyd have three, four, five days lead time, enough to release that extra water and get it out of the way safely, said Ralph. If storms dont appear, the water would be saved for later in the year. Ralph says forecast-informed operations are becoming possible thanks to major advances in weather research. New weather satellites and more precise forecast models are making predictions more accurate. Researchers are even flying planes into atmospheric rivers to gather information about how they behave. Ralph says even with the improvements, theres more fine tuning to be done. We get down to three days' lead time and were down to plus or minus 300 kilometers (186 mi.) in terms of the location of the storms landfall, he explains. Thats the difference between San Francisco and the Oregon border. Thats a big difference if youre operating a reservoir on a much smaller scale. But he says potential is clear in a drought-prone state like California. Imagine we have the option to keep, say, ten percent extra water behind each dam in the winter, he muses. At Folsom Reservoir alone, that amount would supply 200,000 households for a year. Changing the Rules We see potential, agrees Greg Kukas of the Army Corps of Engineers, the federal agency that sets flood rules for reservoirs. What were not clear on is what the risks associated with that potential might be. What are the trade offs? The Corps is considering using the new weather-based operations at Folsom as part of a major update to the reservoir operations plan. The question is whether weather forecasts are precise enough -- not just as to when a storm is coming, but how big it is. When it comes to forecasting the size of events that were most concerned about, they are about 20 percent off, says Kukas. Getting it wrong is not an option. If the dam overflows, it could flood Sacramento and hundreds of thousands of people downstream, and potentially put the dam itself at risk of failing. The consequences, you dont even want to imagine them." Working with reservoir operators around the state, the Corps says it currently takes weather forecasts into consideration in making water release decisions, though in a minimal way. We dont make our reservoir releases in a vacuum, says Christy Jones, also with the Corps of Engineers. We always are looking at the balance. We know water supply is incredibly important but we also know public safety is incredibly important. The Corps plans to decide whether to manage Folsom Reservoir using weather forecasts next year. Changing current flood rules for how much the reservoir can hold in the winter would require an act of Congress. But if it works at Folsom, Jones agrees that it would be a model for reservoirs across the Western U.S. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate WESTPORT Which of the following movies would you guess had scenes filmed in Westport The Ice Storm, The Stepford Wives or Christmas in Connecticut? If you guessed The Stepford Wives you should have been at Oscars Deli on Sunday afternoon where the menu was all about movies. The 5th annual nOscars party, co-sponsored by the Westport Cinema Initiative, featured trivia questions and fun facts about Hollywood films and the Academy Award ceremonies. Local film critic and writer Susan Granger and actor-producer Scott Bryce, who grew up in Westport, again served as hosts for the event. Its about movies, said Sandy Lefkowitz, executive director of the Westport Cinema Initiative. Movies are fun and this is a community event about fun. Its just a wonderful get-together. Lefkowitz said the Cinema Initiative, a nonprofit that hopes to bring a movie theater back to Main Street, continues to work toward its goal. We still need to raise a lot of money, but were very positive that its going to happen, she said of the project. Meanwhile, the nOscars event planned a few hours in advance of the actual West Coast extravaganza drew a packed house to the downtown deli. Bryce and Granger challenged attendees with questions about moveis and the history of 88-year-old awards ceremony, with local merchants providing prizes for the event. It was an industry party to promote the movies, Granger said of the Academy Awards. Thats what it was designed as. Grangers movie reviews appear regularly on the Westport News website, among others. Its fun to see Susan, Westport resident Courtney McCrea, daughter of legendary actor Jack Lemmon, said of Granger. I think she just makes it a great day. Its fun, Granger said of the event. And how else can I spend an afternoon hugging and kissing Scott Bryce. Likewise, Bryce said his friend Granger is the best part of the event for him. Were friends, and Ive been coming to Oscars since I was 7 years old, he said. Also its a really fun Westport tradition and I just love traditions. Its fun, said Lee Ricards of Westport. You learn things you hadnt known before fun facts and its nice to have town people together. You get a wide variety of questions that apply to a lot of different people, said Kevin Miller of Westport. Everyone gets a shot. Oscars Deli owner Lee Pagageorge is among the fans who enjoys this annual party. I see all the movies and its nice to see who wins, he said. I enjoy watching the Oscars, said Marilyn Cummings of Bridgeport, who was among the winners, and this activity is lots of fun. Its probably fair to say that both authors in Word for Words Stories by Emma Donoghue and Colm Toibin had more at stake at the next nights Academy Awards than in the show that opened Saturday, Feb. 27, at Z Below. Films adapted from their novels Toibins Brooklyn and Donoghues Room were vying for several awards, including best picture. Donoghues screenplay was up for best adaptation and in fact won recognition in that category at Saturdays Independent Spirit Awards. Even had one won an Oscar, though, theyd probably agree that the Word offering was better than the telecast. Besides being celebrated novelists, theyre both playwrights. And its hard to resist the unique magic Word works in transforming print into living theater by embodying the authors every word in capable actors and inventive stagings. If that works better for Toibins Silence than for Donoghues Night Vision, the pairing still makes for a thoughtful, entertaining evening. Four Irish writers are represented onstage, with two contemporary authors looking back at defining moments faced by their predecessors. Night Vision, from Donoghues The Woman Who Gave Birth to Rabbits, explores an episode in the 1820s when the blind, poor rural Irish child Frances Browne was almost denied an education (she would become a popular poet and fairy tale writer). Toibins Silence (from his The Empty Family) looks at Lady Gregorys plunge into a life-changing adulterous affair as a young, lonely wife in the 1880s well before she became a playwright, folklorist leader of the Irish Literary Revival and co-founder of Dublins Abbey Theatre. From the opening of Vision, as a blind 9-year-old Franny gropes through a forest in enchanted discovery, Rosie Hallett is completely mesmerizing. In Donoghues poetically concentrated telling, child Franny is a ravenous collector of words and stories. Lying in her shared bed 12 children share three beds in one room shes forever trying to translate visual experiences into her own sensory terms (Color is when you taste something with your eyes). But the static Vision is a hard fit for the Word approach. Its a tale told by Franny as she waits for her father (a concerned Robert Sicular) to return from a town meeting with news of whether Franny can stay in school after a first-day faceoff with Richard Farrells rigid, R-rolling preacher. Though Hallett richly embodies Frannys story, director Becca Wolff and the company havent figured out how to cope with the lack of moments for other characters to come to life, leaving most of the cast little to do but serve as ornamentation. Toibins Silence offers much richer opportunities. An excellent Stephanie Hunt anchors the piece, exploiting Toibins every minute description of Lady Gregorys use of her eyes to communicate through glances, gazes and glares, and theres plenty of work for the whole ensemble. Farrell ably assumes his natural entitlement as her much older husband, a former colonial governor of Ceylon, and comically bad lover. Rudy Guerrero smolders with sexy conceit as poet Wilfrid Scawen Blunt, whose seduction of Gregory transforms her worldview and, when the secret affair ends, impels her to write, also secretly, what became her first published poems. Sicular has a nice cameo as Henry James, and Hallett and Patricia Silver contribute some sharp work as well, in director Jim Caves unobtrusively inventive stagings. But what ties the two stories together is the perceptive depth with which both authors explore formative moments in Browne and Gregorys discovery of themselves as writers. In the pleasurable afterglow created by Silence, Night Vision shines brighter as well. Robert Hurwitt is The San Francisco Chronicles theater critic. Email: rhurwitt@sfchronicle.com Twitter: @RobertHurwitt Stories by Emma Donoghue and Colm Toibin: Short stories in performance. Directed by Becca Wolff and Jim Cave. Through April 3. $33-$58. Word for Word, Z Below, 470 Florida St., S.F. One hour, 50 minutes. (866) 811-4111. www.zspace.org. ROME One of Pope Francis top advisers acknowledged Sunday that the Catholic Church has made enormous mistakes in allowing thousands of children to be raped and molested by priests over centuries as he testified at an extraordinary public hearing of an Australian investigative commission just a few blocks from the Vatican. Australian Cardinal George Pell testified via video link from a Rome hotel to the Royal Commission sitting in Sydney. In the front row of the conference room were two dozen Australian abuse survivors who had traveled across the globe to be on hand for Pells testimony, a significant show of accountability in the churchs long-running abuse saga. BEIRUT U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Monday that a shaky cease-fire in Syria was holding by and large on its third day despite sporadic fighting and growing accusations of violations. A war of words between the Syrian government and Saudi Arabia, a key backer of the opposition, has meanwhile added to the rising tensions. The Syrian Foreign Ministry said recent statements by Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir were lies meant to boost the morale of militants who have suffered setbacks in Syria and demonstrate the kingdoms destructive role in Syria. Al-Jubeir had reiterated Saudi Arabias long-standing position that Syrian President Bashar Assad must leave power, either peacefully or through military means. The foreign minister also accused Syrian forces of violating the cease-fire. Speaking to reporters Monday in Geneva, Ban confirmed receiving a letter from the High Negotiations Committee, the main umbrella opposition group, complaining of continuing violations by the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian backers. The letter sent Sunday urged the U.N. to help specify the territory covered by the truce to prevent hostilities. The Russian and U.S.-brokered cease-fire that went into effect Saturday excludes the Islamic State group as well as al Qaedas branch in Syria, the Nusra Front. The cease-fire has significantly reduced violence across the war-ravaged country, bringing some respite to civilians, particularly from air strikes. But accusations of breaches by both sides threaten to undermine the deal, which aims to bring the Syrian government and the opposition back to peace talks in Geneva next week. Ban told reporters he wanted the cease-fire extended beyond the planned duration of two weeks. The U.N. also said it plans to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance to about 154,000 people living in besieged locations inside Syria over the next five days. A briefing note sent out by Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs on Monday said the assistance will include food, water and sanitation supplies, as well as non-food items and medicine. An official with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent said dozens of trucks carrying aid started entering a besieged rebel-held suburb of the Syrian capital, Damascus, for the first time since the cease-fire went into effect. Muhannad al-Assadi said 51 trucks are carrying domestic supplies such as blankets, soap and diapers to the suburb of Moadamiyeh. PYONGYANG, North Korea North Korea presented a detained American student before the media on Monday in Pyongyang, where he tearfully apologized for attempting to steal a political banner at the behest, he said, of a member of a church back home who wanted it as a trophy from a staff-only section of the hotel where he had been staying. North Korea announced in late January it had arrested Otto Warmbier, a 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. It said that after entering the country as a tourist he committed an antistate crime with the tacit connivance of the U.S. government and under its manipulation. No details of what kind of charges or punishment Warmbier faces were immediately released. According to Warmbiers statement Monday, he wanted the banner with a political slogan on it as a trophy for the church member, who was the mother of a friend. In previous cases, people who have been detained in North Korea and made a public confession often recant those statements after their release. He was arrested while visiting the country with Young Pioneer Tours, an agency specializing in travel to North Korea, which is strongly discouraged by the U.S. State Department. He had been staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, which is located on an island in a river that runs through Pyongyang, the capital. State Department spokesman John Kirby said it was not uncommon for North Korea to detain people on false or trumped-up charges, and use detentions for propaganda purposes. But Kirby said he could not comment on Warmbiers case because of privacy considerations, nor on whether Sweden, which handles consular affairs for the U.S. in North Korea, has had access to him. Warmbiers parents said they had not heard from their son since his arrest and were relieved to see a picture of him. You can imagine how deeply worried we were and what a traumatic experience this has been for us, Warmbiers father, Fred Warmbier, said in a statement provided by the University of Virginia. IDOMENI, Greece Pressed against coils of razor wire and shouting Help us!, refugees stranded at Greeces northern border were pushed back Monday by Macedonian police using tear gas and stun grenades, as the European Union scrambled to ease the escalating number of stranded migrants in Greece. In a chaotic scene, Syrian and Iraqi refugees forced their way through part of a Macedonian border fence, some clutching infants or struggling to free duffel bags caught in the razor-wire fence. They were met by Macedonian riot police, bolstered by dozens of special forces officers flown in by helicopter to quell a refugee protest. Amnesty International condemned European governments for failing to adequately help stranded migrants. Tragically, there seems to be more willingness among European countries to coordinate blocking borders than to provide refugees and asylum-seekers with protection and basic services, said Giorgos Kosmopoulos, Amnestys director in Greece. About 7,000 migrants, including many from Syria and Iraq, are crammed into a tiny camp at the Greek border village of Idomeni, and hundreds more are arriving daily. The border pileup began 10 days ago, when Austria and four former Yugoslav countries on the Balkan migrant route north into Western Europe decided to slow border access for migrants to a trickle and stopped letting Afghan migrants travel through their territory. A U.N. official says those nations never did explain who made the decision on Afghan migrants, or why. Donald Tusk, the European Council President, begins a of tour of those countries Tuesday, starting in Vienna, which has been strongly criticized by other EU nations for its caps on asylum-seekers, and ending Thursday in Athens. Tusk is aiming to prepare for a meeting of leaders from the EU and Turkey on March 7, where the key topic will be trying to halt the flow of migrants from Turkey to Greece. The number of migrants stranded in Greece topped 25,000 Sunday, according to government estimates. Thousands have been sleeping outside in parks and fields and even along highways, as refugee shelters quickly overflowed. Despite receiving the bulk of the refugees seeking the safety of Europe, Germany has opposed unilateral border restrictions and continued to back an EU-wide solution for the migrant crisis. German Chancellor Angela Merkel is resisting calls at home and elsewhere in Europe for limits on refugees like Austria. We cant do this in such a way that we simply abandon Greece, she told public ARD television. This is exactly what I fear: When one country defines its limit, another must suffer. That is not my Europe. AFT Pharmaceuticals has reached agreement with privately-owned Swiss headquartered multinational pharmaceutical company Acino Pharma AG to out-license the Auckland drug-makers main product, the patented combination painkiller Maxigesic to a further 69 countries. The shares rose. The agreement is to sell all oral dose forms of Maxigesic and Maxigesic 1V in four geographic regions Saudi Arabia and Yemen, Central America and the Caribbean, Africa, and North Africa and Levant. AFT markets more than 100 pharmaceutical products for retail, prescription and hospital use with all the drugs made by third-party manufacturers. The shares rose 5.3 percent to $2.58, still down from last year's initial public offering price of $2.80. Founding managing director Hartley Atkinson said this type of deal with Acino was foreshadowed in its product disclosure statement as part of its $35.6 million IPO and dual listing on the NZX and ASX late last year. Out-licensing of our key innovative products, like Maxigesic, forms the backbone of our company growth plans, he said. The product disclosure statement indicated AFT Pharmaceuticals hopes to sell Maxigesic in 100 countries but Atkinson said the Acino deal shows that doesnt mean it has to set up its own costly infrastructure in each region to do so. Rather, we can partner with established companies, like Acino, who know their respective markets and already have an established brand there, he said. Acino Group chief executive Jostein Davidsen said partnering was a key part of its growth plans. We are interested in novel products while providing our partners access to new customers in emerging markets, he said. Adding the Maxigesic fixed combination formulations to our product portfolio will strengthen our offer in one of our core therapeutic areas pain and rheumatology. In December AFT Pharmaceutcials reported a net loss loss of $6.37 million for the six months ended Sept. 30, down 4.2 percent on a year earlier after incurring $1 million in listing expenses. The IPO prospectus didnt provide any estimates of future financial performance, though the company had revenue of $56.4 million in the 2015 financial year and posted a net loss of $12.9 million. Atkinson and his wife Marree retained a 75 percent stake in the company and received $3 million of the IPO proceeds with the remaining $32.6 million going on accelerating global expansion and research and development, including clinical trials on a number of drugs and devices in its pipeline. A clinical trial is due to begin in the US next month on Maxigesic as the company seeks Food and Drug Administration approval to sell into that country. While development is complete of the Maxigesic tablet, the company is developing different formulations such as oral liquid, powder sachets, and IV for post-operative use. BusinessDesk.co.nz 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: Mainfreight Investor Day / Market Update GFI - Greenfern - Offer closes 27th Oct MCY - Quarterly Operational Update VCT - Operational performance for the 3 months ended 30 Sept 2022 NZL - Forestry Estate Acquisition October 21st Morning Report Air New Zealand Limited Retail Bond Offer Books Close Spark welcomes C-band spectrum allocation AIA - 2022 Annual Meeting Chair & Chief Executive Addresses MOVE Completes Purchase of Vessel for Trans-Tasman Service Australasian biotech company Living Cell Technologies says it will know the outcome of a make or break clinical trial on its regenerative cell therapy for Parkinsons disease in the first quarter of next year. If the trial succeeds, LCTs lead product NTCELL will be the worlds first disease-modifying treatment for Parkinsons as existing treatments only deal with the symptoms rather than stopping degeneration of the brain. The operations of the Australian-incorporated company are based in New Zealand, where it has just launched a Phase 11b clinical trial in Auckland, the last step in securing provisional consent to sell the product to patients with Parkinsons disease next year. A total of 18 patients under 65 years old will take part in the trial to be run at Auckland Hospital and Mercy Ascot Hospital with the company having to wait 26 weeks after the last patient is implanted to know whether it has been successful in meeting regulator Medsafes conditions on quality, safety, and efficacy. LCT chief executive Ken Taylor wouldnt reveal the trials cost as it could vary. Hes confident, though, a recent A$2.8 million private placement to high net worth investors including Stephen Tindall, Gary Lane, and Julian Robertson means the company has sufficient funds to foot the bill. The company was founded in 1999 by Bob Elliott and David Collinson to develop a regenerative cell therapy that involves transplanting cells from Auckland Island pigs into humans. The initial target was type 1 diabetes, which is now being pursued by a joint venture company in the US, while LCT focuses initially on Parkinsons before considering other central nervous system indications such as Huntingtons, Alzheimers and motor neurone disease. LCT has already done some work with the University of Aucklands Centre for Brain Research on which should be its next step, with Huntingtons looking the most likely. It cant afford to progress trials of other indicators until the outcome of the Parkinsons clinical trial is known. The company has just reported a 40 percent reduction in first-half losses, mainly due to accounting changes to losses in its joint venture company, Diatranz Otsuka Ltd. The net loss for the six months ending Dec.31 narrowed to A$1.4 million after its half share in DOL was equity-accounted to zero so no future losses will be reported in the statement of profit or loss, the ASX-listed company said. Its share of the joint venture losses during the period was A$70,000, compared to A$1.3 million a year earlier. Revenue of A$365,545 for the first half of the current financial year was dominated by A$245,244 in research and development grants and was down 53 percent on a year earlier due to reduced income from services that it is no longer providing to the joint venture since it shifted research and development from New Zealand to the US. LCT has a three-year grant from Callaghan Innovation to meet 20 percent of its R&D costs. The joint venture is developing DIABECELL, a treatment for diabetes, and the costs of research and development and gaining Food & Drug Administration approvals in the US are being borne by its other 50 percent shareholder, Japanese-based Otsuka Pharmaceutical Factory. OPF will pay up to A$15 million for licensing rights in the US and Japan as development milestones are met while the JV company holds the rights for the rest of the world. The diabetes programme is longer and harder and requires more funding so it's appropriate thats done in the US, Taylor said. During the half LCT forked out a total A$580,000 for the pathogen-free pig herd and manufacturing plant and equipment from the joint venture in order to secure supply of NTCELL for the Auckland clinical trial and beyond. Additional staff have also been recruited. The company had A$3.6 million cash on hand at balance date but has since boosted working capital from the proceeds of the private share placement and also hopes a Share Purchase Plan open to existing investors until Mar. 11 will reap around A$1 million, the amount raised in an SPP last year. Taylor said that will give the biotech company sufficient funds to last another year. He said LCT was ahead of competitors in bringing cell therapies for neurodegenerative diseases to the market. LCTs share price is currently languishing around 5 Australian cents. Kevin Dutta-Gupta, GM Research at Investment Research Group (IRG) said" LCT is typically one of those small cap stocks that could move rapidly northward if there is good news from the Company. In New Zealand we have seen Pacific Edge move 22% on good news today after announcing supply arrangements with US vet. Investors should note that these kind of biotech stocks are highly speculative and can give high returns if you are willing to take the risk." BusinessDesk.co.nz 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: Mainfreight Investor Day / Market Update GFI - Greenfern - Offer closes 27th Oct MCY - Quarterly Operational Update VCT - Operational performance for the 3 months ended 30 Sept 2022 NZL - Forestry Estate Acquisition October 21st Morning Report Air New Zealand Limited Retail Bond Offer Books Close Spark welcomes C-band spectrum allocation AIA - 2022 Annual Meeting Chair & Chief Executive Addresses MOVE Completes Purchase of Vessel for Trans-Tasman Service New Zealand Post Group, which is three years into a five-year transformation to shrink its business to keep pace with falling mail volumes, has put its art collection up for sale. About 50 art works, including pieces by Gretchen Albrecht, John Pule, Fiona Pardington and Robyn Kahukiwa, will be sold through Wellington auction house Dunbar Sloane. The state-owned mail service hasn't added to its art collection, built up in the 1980s and 1990s, for several years. The sale won't include the Coast Watchers Memorial to those executed on the Gilbert Islands (Kiribati) during WWII. "These are challenging times for New Zealand Post and we feel it is no longer appropriate for us to own an expensive art collection," a spokeswoman told BusinessDesk. "The refurbishment at NZ Post House in Wellington offered an opportunity to look again at the head office collection, which was built up over many decades." Argosy Property owns NZ Post House, having acquired the building in a sale and lease back deal for $60 million in 2013. Last November Argosy said refurbishment of the building had slowed because NZ Post needed less floor space. Last month NZ Post reported a 10 percent increase in first-half profit that reflected one-time gains from asset sales. Once those gains were excluded, earnings fell 14 percent. In November, NZ Post sold its outsourcing Converga division to Canon Australia for an undisclosed sum, which it said completed its strategy of selling non-core assets. NZ Post's banking subsidiary, Kiwibank, accounted for the bulk of the state-owned enterprise's earnings. The spokeswoman said the postal service is retaining historically important art, such as paintings of PostShops, and art that has been gifted to the business. Dunbar Sloane's website shows works from the NZ Post collection including a Fiona Pardington photo, Huia Feather tu Rae, with an estimate of $10,000 to $20,000, and a Gretchen Albrecht work, Nomadic Geometrics, with a range of $18,000 to $26,000, will be included in its April 14 auction. BusinessDesk.co.nz 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: Mainfreight Investor Day / Market Update GFI - Greenfern - Offer closes 27th Oct MCY - Quarterly Operational Update VCT - Operational performance for the 3 months ended 30 Sept 2022 NZL - Forestry Estate Acquisition October 21st Morning Report Air New Zealand Limited Retail Bond Offer Books Close Spark welcomes C-band spectrum allocation AIA - 2022 Annual Meeting Chair & Chief Executive Addresses MOVE Completes Purchase of Vessel for Trans-Tasman Service Genesis Energy Limited is an energy company which sells electricity, reticulated natural gas and liquid petroleum gas (LPG) through its retail brands of Genesis Energy and Energy Online. It generates electricity from a portfolio of thermal and renewable generation assets located in different parts of the country. It operates in four segments: Customer experience, Energy management, Oil and gas, and Corporate. The Customer experience segment includes supply of energy (electricity, gas and LPG), as well as related services. The Energy management segment includes generation and trading of electricity and related products, and electricity sales to the wholesale electricity market, derivatives entered into to fix the price of electricity, and wholesale gas and coal sales. The Oil and gas segment includes exploration, development, production and sale of gas, LPG and light oil. The Company also has 31% interest in the Kupe Joint Venture that owns the Kupe Oil and Gas Field. Genesis Energy supplies 19 per cent of New Zealand's electricity from its thermal and renewable power stations. It is also a significant energy retailer supplying electricity, natural gas and LPG to more than 658,100 customers across the country. On the 17th April 2014, Genesis Energy Limited listed on the NZSX for an initial public offer price of $1.55. Genesis Energy reported a 113 percent increase in net profit of $104.8 million on marginally increased revenues of $2.1 billion in the year to June 30, 2015. Total electricity, gas and LPG customers slipped 2 percent to 636,676. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and movements in the fair value of financial instruments, often seen as a preferred measure for underlying performance, rose 12 percent to $307.8 million. Falling global oil prices saw returns from Genesis's 31 percent interest in the Kupe oil and gas field fall, with the oil and gas segment of operations showing a 13 percent drop in EBITDAF to $93.5 million, with Kupe contributing 27 percent of EBITDAF in the latest year, compared with 35 percent the previous year. Improved cost to serve ratios saw the 'customer experience' segment improve EBITDAF earnings by $4.7 million to $87.2 million, while the energy management segment, which measures the company's wholesale electricity generation operations, showed a $32.2 million improvement, up 19 percent on the previous year, at $201.1 million. Contributors to that result were a 4 percent increase in total electricity generated to 6,698 Gigawatt hours, and a 7 percent improvement in the average price received for wholesale electricity, at $75.41 per Megawatt hour. Genesis used 31 percent more coal and 5 percent less gas on electricity production during the year. The company confirmed the two remaining 250MW gas and coal-fired units at its Huntly power station site would close in 2018, barring a major change in market conditions. Genesis has been running down coal stockpiles at Huntly in anticipation of the closure and cancelled its coal contract with Solid Energy, using the state-owned coal miner's financial distress as a trigger to quit existing contracts early. The company will pay an 8 cents per share final dividend, an increase from last year's 6.6 cents, taking total distributions in the current financial year to 16 cents, compared with 13 cents in the previous financial year. That equates to 80.9 percent of free cash flow, compared with 80.4 percent the previous year. Free cash flow at $197.7 million was 22 per cent higher than the previous year.Genesis Energy said it has seen growth in electricity sales in the first three months of the new financial year after New Zealand's biggest electricity and gas retailer halted a slide in customers in the face of "aggressive" competition. The company affirmed its guidance for earnings growth to stall in 2016. Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and changes to financial instruments would be in line with last year's $345 million, although the company expects to lift its total dividends for the year. To view the FULL REPORT on Genesis Energy please visit IRG ONLINE LIBRARY at shop.sharechat.co.nz 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: Genesis Energy (GNE) SHANGHAI: The New Development Bank set up by BRICS countries aims to lend up to USD 2 billion this year starting in about two months and the multilateral lender's first loan to India could be for a green solar energy project, its president K V Kamath said. "For this year, if we can approve one-and-a-half to two billion dollars I will be happy. We are six months into setting up the bank. We do not want to take steps which are too fast," Kamath told PTI. While the bank is in the process of finalising its set of loans to green projects from each of the BRICS countries -- Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa -- India's first loan could be for a solar project, the eminent banker hinted. "The projects we are looking at are all green projects. They are primarily in solar. A variety of initiatives were placed before us by the government," he said. Kamath, 68, said the bank is also looking for water projects and thereafter road projects to fund. The bank will release the first set of loans by April this year. "These are primary steps for us. We will understand what is the larger context that is playing out in India and follow that strategy. We have no pre-set mind," he said. About how NDB can back the 'Make in India' campaign, he said "our key role is of a catalyst. Multilateral bank can not meet the entire development effort. It is how you innovate and add value and bring together markets and other players in the baking in system make a difference," Kamath said. "We will work with the country and what they think is priority," he said, adding that the signals suggest that the members states are articulating green projects. "We are happy to work along on green (projects)," he said. The NDB became fully-operational yesterday after it signed an agreement with China to place its headquarters in Shanghai, according the bank a legal status under Chinese regulations. Established with an initial subscribed capital of USD 50 billion, the NDB has a total paid-in capital of USD 10 billion. Its founding members have already brought-in a capital of USD 1 billion as initial contribution. Reserver Bank of India Governor Raghuram Rajan, who witnessed the signing of the headquarters agreement, termed the bank a "worthwhile venture" by the five-member bloc. Read Also: A Guide to Setting Up New Business In India For Foreigners Global Growth Prospects Clouded, Need Coherent Response: OECD MUMBAI: Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton will arrive here on April 10 for their first ever visit to India, an official statement said on Monday. They would experience a variety of aspects of contemporary Indian life, focusing on young people, sport, entrepreneurship, Indian efforts to relieve urban poverty, the creative arts, and rural life in India, the statement said. After their stay in Mumbai, the royal couple, also known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, will travel on April 11 to New Delhi. They will be in Assam on April 12 and 13 to visit the Kaziranga National Park and pay tribute to the rural traditions of the communities who live around the park. The royal couple will travel on April 14 to the neighbouring Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan and return on April 16 to Agra for a visit to the Taj Mahal, a Unesco World Heritage monument, in conclusion of their two-nation tour. "Their visit to India will be an introduction to a country that they plan to build an enduring relationship with. They will pay tribute to India's proud history, but also are keen to understand the hopes and aspirations of young Indian people and the major role they will play in shaping the 21st century," said a Kensington Palace spokesperson. A qualified pilot, Prince William, 33, is the elder son of Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales and the late Princess Diana, and is the second in line to succeed his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II to the British throne. Read Also: Pakistan, India In Bitter Contest To Win Over U.S. Alok Verma Delhi's New Police Commissioner NEW DELHI: In the future, India and the US could jointly explore Mars and, who knows, an Indian astronaut could also head to the Red planet on a joint mission. Indias maiden mission to the Red Planet, Mangalyaan, has opened the eyes of the world on ISROs capabilities at undertaking low cost, high value inter-planetary mission. Charles Elachi, director of the Jet Propulsion Laboratory or JPL, a part of NASA and an institution better known for piloting most of the American planetary exploration efforts with rovers like Curiosity, says India and the US could jointly explore Mars and even invited India to send astronauts to the Red Planet. Excerpts of an interview: Q) The US is interested in going back to Mars, so is India. Will India and America look at a joint robotic mission to explore Mars? A) We hope so that it will be the case in the future. At NASA, we are just beginning to plan for next mission to Mars for the next decade, which is 2020-2030. In fact shortly, there is a meeting in Washington on possible collaborations for the next 5-6 mission to Mars and ISRO is invited for that meeting. This is in preparation for the ultimate human space flight to Mars. We clearly hope that India would be interested. Hopefully, India will be part of the consortium between US, Europe, France, Italy among others where all can capitalise on our capabilities to explore the solar system. Q) A cooperative exploratory mission is what you are looking at? A) Yes, that is right. With its accomplishment on the Mars Orbiter Mission (MOM) India is a great partner, India can be a full partner in the international endeavour for exploring Mars. Q) In the long run, President Barack Obama has said America should send humans to Mars, so are you looking at a collaboration with India on that mission, since India also has a human space flight program? A) NASA is starting to plan for the human expedition to Mars, and NASA is looking at it as an international endeavour. NASA has invited international agencies to start thinking together on how to send humans to Mars and beyond. So clearly that is an area where there will be collaboration between India and the US considering the capability that India has, by showing that it can meaningfully contribute to international endeavours. Q) What was NASAs role in Indias mission to Mars? A) When India launched its mission to Mars, and I congratulate India on a superb mission by reaching the orbit or Mars in the very first attempt. JPL supported ISRO in the navigation and communication because of the antennas we have. Reaching the Mars orbit in first attempt was an amazing achievement and that too at such low cost. Now American scientists through its MAVEN mission and India through its Mars Orbiter Mission are sharing data. Q) NASA is looking to mine an asteroid, is India likely to participate on that mission? A) We are looking at a mission using electric propulsion, which is a major advancement in technology, to capture an asteroid and bring it back to lunar orbit so that astronauts can go and do more deeper exploration. NASA has opened the door for potential interest, be it from India or Europe. We are in a very early stage of planning so that is clearly an opportunity for more collaboration with India. Q) Where are Indo-US relations in space heading? A) I think they are heading for a very positive future, from five years ago the interest has now tremendously expanded. There is now good will both politically and scientifically, I am very optimistic about the future in space collaboration. Space is for everybody, the good will between two countries makes space a natural place to work together. The two can cooperate even in astronomy, India has a long history in astronomy. I visited the ancient observatory made by Indians (at Jantar Mantar) that is a few hundred years old that furthered knowledge and now we can do it together. India has a great tradition of learning. Q) What else is in store for NASA and ISRO in the future? A) We have a mission called NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar (NISAR) mission. This is a major mission that will be launched in 2020. Here we are really collaborating as equals, between India and the US. This mission will allow us to look at natural resources across the world, natural hazards like tectonic motion, climate impact and climate change. This is of direct day-to-day benefit for life both in USA and India. This came up as a collaboration among scientists but is now a full-fledged approved joint mission between both countries. Q) How can you decipher things from space after a disaster strikes? A) This is a RADAR mission, that has the capability to take a picture of the land, and then you come back a few days later and take another picture. In the meantime, if there was a change even down to a scale of a few centimeters we can detect it from space. This gives you a picture of the motion that has occurred as result of an earthquake or mudslide. This will allow us to better understand the physics behind an earthquake. Potentially it will allow us to predict areas with large natural hazard. This is of direct benefit be it for India or California where we see tectonic activity as well. The two main RADAR instruments are being developed by NASA and ISRO, the satellite bus will be Indian and it will be fabricated in India and then it will be launched using the Indian rocket the Geo-synchronous Satellite Launch Vehicle. This time we are truly collaborating as equals. Read Also: US Lawmakers' Letter To PM 'Unfortunate': India Security Council Reforms Gain Momentum With Consensus On Increasing Size UNITED NATIONS: Security Council reforms have gained momentum with a consensus emerging on increasing the size of the 193-member global body to the mid-20s despite opposition from Russia and the US at the recent negotiating session, according to diplomatic sources. While the issue of adding permanent members was not on the session's agenda and was scheduled for later, Pakistan and a group of countries served notice that they would oppose any such move. Despite these differences the "momentum of convergence is gaining speed" for reforms, a diplomat who was at the February 22 meeting told IANS. The diplomat cited the overwhelming support for increasing the total number of Council members from 15 to the mid-20s and for other reforms. These reforms include making the Council's working more transparent, emphasising mediation over military force, and more involvement of non-member countries in its activities. This was the second session of the Intergovernmental Negotiations on Security Council Reforms (IGN) after the General Assembly overcame stiff opposition last year to adopt a text to base the discussions on. IANS put together this account of the closed door meeting from conversations with sources who attended the meeting and speeches released by some countries. The US and Russia wanted the size of the Council restricted to 20 asserting that anything more would undermine its efficiency. Limiting it to 20 would make it virtually impossible to add permanent members because there would then be no room for any non-permanent members, which would be the priority of most countries to broaden the representation on the UN's highest decision-making body. Washington and Moscow have, however, endorsed adding permanent members, with India as one of them. But a 20-member limit on the Council could nullify this. The other permanent members, Britain and France, backed the mid-20s number, while China did not take a stand. India supported going up to 27 and Permanent Representative Syed Akbaruddin said: "Efficiency is not merely an issue of numbers but stems from a broader set of factors such as credibility, equitability, legitimacy and representativeness." Read Also: 2019 General Elections to have Paper-Trail EVMs: CEC Setting Up E-Platform To Provide Best Prices To Farmers: Prez NEW DELHI: The government on Monday described as "unfortunate" a letter written by 34 US lawmakers to Prime MinisterNarendra Modi expressing concern over violence against religious minorities in India. "It is unfortunate that these members of Congress while applauding India as a pluralistic society with a longstanding commitment to inclusion and tolerance have chosen to focus on just a few incidents," external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup said in a statement. "India is proud of its status as the world's largest democracy. The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all its citizens, including minority communities. Aberrations, if any, are dealt with by our internal processes which include our independent judiciary, autonomous National Human Rights Commission, vigilant media, and vibrant civil society," he said. In the letter dated February 25 and released to the media by the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, the 34 US lawmakers said that their strong support for the US-India partnership has encouraged them "to relay our grave concerns about the increasing intolerance and violence members of India's religious minority communities experience". "We urge your government to take immediate steps to ensure the fundamental rights of religious minorities are protected and the perpetrators of violence are held to account," the letter stated. "Of particular concern is the treatment of India's Christian, Muslim and Sikh communities. On June 17, 2014, more than 50 village councils in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh adopted a resolution banning 'all non-Hindu religious propaganda, prayers and speeches' in their communities," it said. According to the US lawmakers, the ban "effectively has criminalised" the practice of Christianity by around 300 families in the region a day after a mob, including members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Bajrang Dal, attacked and injured six Christians at the village of Sireiguda. "Since the ban was implemented, Christians in the Bastar district reportedly have been subjected to physical assaults, denial of government services, extortion, threats of forced expulsion, denial of access to food and water, and pressure to convert to Hinduism," they alleged. Stating that they were also concerned about the "nearly country-wide beef ban", the US lawmakers referred to the killing of Mohammad Hasmat Ali in Manipur in November for stealing a cow and the murder of Mohammad Saif in Uttar Pradesh in September. The letter also called for recognition of Sikhism as a distinct religion as not doing so prevented practitioners of the religion "from accessing social services and employment and educational preferences available to other religious communities". "Mr. Prime Minister, we applaud India as a pluralistic society with a long-standing commitment to inclusion and tolerance," it stated. "We also applaud your statements about religious freedom and communal harmony, including your promise in February 2014 that your government would 'ensure that there is complete freedom of faith... and not allow any religious group, belonging to the majority or minority, to incite hatred against others'. We urge you to turn these words into action by publicly condemning the ban on non-Hindu faiths in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, and the violent assaults and other forms of harassment against religious minorities throughout India," it stated, adding that steps should be taken against activities of groups such as the RSS. The letter was signed by Senators Roy Blunt, Amy Klobuchar, James Alankford, Al Franken, Tim Scott, Ben Sasse, John Boozman and Steve Daines and 26 members of the House of Representatives, including Joseph R. Pitts, Keith Ellison, Brad Wenstrup, Jim Costa, Trent Franks, Ted Poe and Mark Walker. In his statement on Monday describing the US lawmakers' letter as unfortunate, Swarup reiterated that the Indian government was "fully committed to the constitutional principles which underpin the nation of 1.25 billion people as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society". Read Also: Security Council Reforms Gain Momentum With Consensus On Increasing Size Govt To Launch Digital Literacy Scheme In Rural Areas WASHINGTON: Buoyed by her recent triumphs, Hillary Clinton is opening a dual-track strategy in her bid for the White House, slowly pivoting toward Republicans even as she works to expand her lead across more than a dozen states voting this week in 'Super Tuesday' primaries, a media report said today. "Tomorrow, this campaign goes national," Clinton said today soon after she trounced Senator Bernie Sanders in South Carolina Democratic primary, reveling in her historic victory in a speech to supporters, signaling a new phase of the nominating contest. "The aircraft carrier is definitely shifting to the general election this week," a top Democrat close to the 68- year-old former secretary of state told CNN, speaking on condition of anonymity to avoid getting ahead of the campaign and alienating Democrats who have yet to vote. The wide margin of her South Carolina victory over Senator Bernie Sanders accelerates her transition to the general election. Clinton has mentioned Sanders less and less in recent days and in her victory speech targeted Donald Trump, the Republican front-runner. Advisers to Clinton increasingly believe Trump is more likely than not to be the Republican nominee, which injects a considerable dose of uncertainty into any fall contest. A Clinton-Trump match-up, should that ultimately develop, could mean a new general election battleground, with states like New Jersey, Michigan and even Pennsylvania potentially competitive for Republicans. Clinton's campaign, feeling more confident than it did after a narrow win in Iowa and a double-digit defeat in New Hampshire, has started to evaluate how it would run against the now smaller Republican field and what each candidate would mean for Clinton, the report said. Senator Marco Rubio, aides to Clinton believe, is also a worrisome foe. But he is seen as a more traditional candidate that would allow the campaign to focus on many of the same swing states then-Senator Barack Obama had to win in 2008, namely Florida, Ohio, Colorado and Pennsylvania. Looking ahead, Clinton's aides know they are not going to knock Sanders out on March 1, but they hope by the end of the night on Tuesday -- where 865 delegates are at stake -- their campaign will have at least a 100 earned delegate lead over the Vermont senator. Clinton left for Tennessee shortly after claiming victory in South Carolina and in the coming days she will visit Arkansas, Virginia and Massachusetts, among other states, in an effort to solidify her support. And though they concede that Sanders will score big in Vermont -- his home state -- they think they can win in Oklahoma and Minnesota. Their tightest battles, aides said, will be in Massachusetts and Colorado. Read Also: Trump called 'Crazy Zealot' as Rivals Attack Him U.S. Senators Slam H-1B Visa Programme Source: PTI STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Alonso Santi Debriano is one frustrated New Dorp Beach homeowner. Like so many other Staten Island residents living along our vulnerable shores, his family's life was upended in the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy in late October 2012, when their one-story, wood-frame bungalow on Neutral Avenue -- home for 10 years -- was inundated with more than six feet of water in the storm's powerful surge. The family was displaced once as the bungalow was repaired with home-insurance money. But they are now displaced for a second time, since late October 2015. Why? Because the city instructed Debriano to move out of the bungalow, in preparation for elevating it under the Build it Back Repair program, designed to protect homes from the flood waters of future storms. "The city said we had to be out by Oct. 25, 2015, and had to empty everything (from the house)" and put it in storage, said Debriano. "They made it sound urgent." Temporarily displaced, he and his wife rented an apartment in Soissons, a town in northern France, for $1,500 a month, where Debriano, a musician and composer, found work. "We flew to France on Nov. 3 on a three-month tourist visa, and came back before the 90 days, at the end of January," he said. CITY'S SLOW RESPONSE Upon returning, Debriano said that he was disappointed to see that the elevation work had not yet started, while -- in the meantime -- he has financial responsibility for a $1,858 monthly mortgage on the bungalow, located close to the shore between Roma and Cedar Grove avenues. He was also frustrated that the city had not yet reimbursed him for the out-of-pocket rental expenses incurred after moving out of the bungalow, as instructed. "I'm desperate -- I have no money left," Debriano told the Advance. "We were living on savings, now wiped out, and my earning in Europe. I'm behind on the mortgage and owe $4,500 to my landlord in France. "They know we're twisting in the wind," he commented. Debriano's frustration and the delays come about five months after Mayor Bill de Blasio visited the East Shore to publicize the progress his administration has made with fixing the trouble-plagued Built It back Program. CITY RESPONSES SILive.com contacted Build it Back about Debriano's complaints on Feb. 22 and received a reply on Feb. 23. Explaining the reason for the move-out date of late October of last year, the agency said from the time a homeowner vacates the premises until the actual elevation, each home must undergo utility cutoff, asbestos abatement if needed, scope of work revision and additional testing, if required. In Debriano's case, asbestos remediation was required, according to Build it Back. The agency said that it worked closely with Debriano to make sure the home met his specifications and that the elevation would begin "in the coming weeks." As for the lack of reimbursement for rental expenses that Debriano incurred -- starting in November 2015 -- Build it Back reported that he received a move-out voucher from the program but did not file the required paperwork until February, noting that the agency's counselors have been working with him to make sure the needed financial assistance will be received. SUDDENLY -- RESULTS After the Advance sent its query to Build it Back on Feb. 22 about Debriano's case, there was some quick movement. Debriano told us that he was contacted by his home-elevation contractor on Feb. 23, who informed him that elevation of the Neutral Avenue bungalow would start by the middle of next week, and that this construction process would take 100 days. The contractor also said on Feb. 23 that the asbestos abatement was currently in progress, according to Debriano. "I had all my utilities shut off before we left for France," Debriano said. "And the asbestos abatement is just starting now? So why was it so urgent for us to move out on October 25?" The next day, Feb. 24, Debriano said that he received a call from a Build it Back representative about his rental expenses reimbursement, and the frustrated homeowner complained about more red tape. "She told me that there was a discrepancy in applications that I filed and that I had to start over from scratch," he told the Advance. The problem, according to Debriano, was that on one form he listed himself and his wife as residents of the Neutral Avenue house, and on another he included the name of his 20-year-old son, who is a college student in Switzerland. "My son comes home and stays with us on college breaks," Debriano said, which is why he said he listed his son's name on one of the applications he provided to Build it Back. "I don't understand why they denied the whole case because of this discrepancy, and now we have to start from scratch." HOME ELEVATIONS ON STATEN ISLAND: THE NUMBERS A total of 41 Staten Island homes have been elevated to date, and an additional 121 are in the construction pipeline, according to statistics provided by Build in Back on Feb.23. The agency told SILive.com that it continues to work on speeding up the processes, as more and more homes go into elevation. GUIDELINES Under the guidelines of the Build it Back elevation program, all basements and cellars are to be filled in during home elevation. After elevation, the space below the lowest elevated floor of the home can only be used for access, storage and parking. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- As the only female head brewer in New York City, Katarina Martinez wants to make darn sure her beer is properly carbonated. It's one of those trailblazing things. In her black flapper dress, heels and impeccable makeup, the owner and brewmaster of the newly tapped Lineup Brewing Co. vigorously shakes the keg of her English pale ale until it reaches the correct levels of fizziness. Yes, it's a tired cliche to bring up what women entrepreneurs are wearing, but let's face it: she didn't look like the typical flannel-shirted bearded brewer, and everyone knew it. "I bet a lot of people here didn't think I was the head brewer," Martinez, a member of Staten Island's homebrew club, Pour Standards, said at her brewery's soft launch last week. Martinez and another Pour Standards member, Merlin Ward, are sharing equipment, and also sharing space with a "beer whiskey" maker, Arcane Distilling. The three companies will operate out of a bar space in Brooklyn's trendy Industry City warehouse complex when they officially open this summer. They held a launch party last week in their new Sunset Park home, which overlooks the New York Bay, Staten Island in the distance. Now the two brewers are just waiting for the proper licensing to come through. Ward's brewery, Wartega Brewing Co., brews using "ancient beer ingredients;" so a lot of unique, unexpected ingredients like licorice, fruit, roots and flowers. His Keen Sour Ale, a favorite among many that evening, had flavors of kumquats and mango puree. Martinez says her beer will compliment Ward's, since the two will be sharing the space. Her's will run the gamut from her coconut porter to a German pilsner she calls "Bieryonce," a nod to the aspirational quality of her business. She aims to be the "Beyonce of beer," she said laughing. "I don't know why, but people just don't think of women as being into beer, but they are," she said, pointing to other Pour Standards women in attendance at the soft launch. "So I want to empower women to do and drink the things they love." As one of few women in her field that work in product engineering at Adobe, Martinez knows how being somewhat of an outcast can bring a lot of ingenuity to a product, whether it's software or a beer. And that's something a craft brewer needs to succeed in a saturated market with as much as $1 million in upstart costs. Both she and Ward are self-funded, but their costs are significantly less since they're sharing equipment. "Every home brewer dreams of opening their own brewery, it just comes down to whether they have the means to do it," Ward said. Martinez says she's not quitting her day job -- it's how she's able to afford some of the costs of opening Lineup. But operating a "nano brewery," as opposed to a full-fledged brewery will allow her to build her brand with baby steps, instead of opening a full-fledged brewery like Staten Island's Flagship Brewing Co. And, she said, the niche-factor helps. "Being a minority brings a different perspective to the mix," she said. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y - The New Brighton man sentenced to five years in prison after claiming he was arrested while trying to turn a gun into the NYPD buyback program could be home in about a week. Associate Justice Jeffrey A. Cohen ordered Kevin Watson, 35, be released on $100,000 bail while the appeal on his weapons conviction is ongoing, the judge wrote in a decision filed Thursday in the Appellate Division, Second Department. "I felt confident, but people don't get out on appeal that often," said attorney Timothy C. Parlatore, who represents Watson. "It's a good sign that the appeals judge sees the significance of our argument. "The fact that he granted bail means he feels there's merit to the appeal." Watson's family is working on getting the capital to post the bail while he remains in an upstate facility. The defense had submitted a lengthy appeal filing outlining their grievances with Watson's one-week trial before Judge William E. Garnett in state Supreme Court, St. George. BUYBACK TESTIMONY First, according to that filing, the officers who pulled over the livery cab Watson was riding in testified during a hearing that the cabbie was pulled over because he failed to signal twice. However, the driver testified that he was absolutely sure he signaled, was not told why he was stopped and was never issued any summonses for the alleged traffic violation, the defense filing claims. The stop was unlawful, the defense claims, and all evidence should be suppressed. In October 2013, Watson was riding in the front seat of a livery cab on Victory Boulevard, near Tompkinsville Park, when undercover cops in an unmarked vehicle pulled over the cab and found him with a loaded Taurus 9 mm gun in a holster, prosecutors said. Watson contends he got in a cab and was taking the gun to the 120th Precinct stationhouse in St. George to hand it in as part of the NYPD's buyback program. Under the program, civilians can hand in guns under a no-questions-asked policy. Watson's mother-in-law, Crystal Armstrong, works at the 120th, and he had asked her about the program the morning before his arrest, according to the appeal filing. But, those papers state, the defense was not allowed to ask Armstrong about that conversation during her testimony. "Defense counsel argued that during opening statements the People asserted Mr. Watson fabricated his statement indicating he was in route to the 120th Precinct," the lawyer says in the filing. "Thus, Ms. Armstrong's testimony was admissible to rebut allegations of recent fabrication." Prosecutors maintained at trial the gun needed to be secured in a box or bag and was not. They also said Watson hailed the cab from in front of 516 Jersey St., which is not his home, and told the driver to take him to Victory Boulevard and Bay Street and not the precinct stationhouse, prosecutors said. MISCONDUCT ALLEGATIONS Watson's trial was also tainted by former prosecutor Kyle Reeves' misconduct, the defense appeal filing alleges. Reeves recently retired. The defense claims in its filing Reeves called Parlatore a liar during summation and prosecutors deliberately attempted to sneak in several pages of inadmissible evidence into an exhibit. Those incriminating pages were left out of the defense's copy of the exhibit, Parlatore claims. Parlatore, in his court filing, contends the court ignored inconsistent testimony from the two officers, and the search warrant granted to allow the cops to look through Watson's phone did not establish sufficient probable cause. As a result of the search, authorities found two unredacted photos showing multiple firearms, which were then allowed into evidence. The additional firearms were not subject of any charges in the indictment, and the state could not prove the gun in question was depicted in those photos, the defense claims. "They improperly suggested that Mr. Watson had a propensity to unlawfully possess firearms, and accordingly unlawfully possessed the firearm in question," Parlatore argued in the filing. Also, Parlatore argued that the court didn't allow him to properly cross-examine Officer Frank Muzikar. Specifically, the defense was not allowed to question the officer on his multiple federal lawsuits stemming from previous arrests, the filing says. Watson will appear before Garnett for the bail hearing. In December, Watson was found guilty of one count of felony criminal possession of a weapon in the second degree and one count of misdemeanor criminal possession of a weapon in the fourth degree. A spokesman for District Attorney Michael E. McMahon declined to comment. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Assemblywoman Nicole Malliotakis is warning residents to be wary of a nationwide "jury duty" scam that has become prevalent in recent months. According to the New York Department of State, Division of Consumer Protection, scammers disguised as law enforcement officers or court officials are calling victims, informing them that they must pay a fine for failing to attend jury duty, or risk arrest. These scammers will request an immediate credit card payment, as well as a victim's Social Security number and date of birth. They target immigrants, who are unfamiliar with the court system, or seniors, who are less likely to report the fraud, according to a release from Malliotakis (R-East Shore/Brooklyn). These scams have been reported in many states nationwide, including neighboring states New Jersey and Pennsylvania. "We need to make our family, friends and neighbors aware of this scam and all scams so they are not taken advantage of," said Malliotakis. "We must stay vigilant in the event that the fake calls come to our community next." To protect yourself from becoming victimized by this type of scam, Malliotakis advises the following: Jury duty notices are sent in writing through U.S. Mail from your local county clerk Should you have phone contact with a court official, you will never be asked for confidential personal information It is only safe to provide personal information on call that you have initiated with a reputable contact Please contact the local county clerk if you are concerned that you have missed a jury duty summons. Concerned borough residents have contacted police and the Advance in recent weeks to report a wave of telephone scams: STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. - A Mariners Harbor man, who fought with cops during last year's St. Patrick's Parade in the borough, pleaded guilty Monday to misdemeanor assault. Nicholas McGowan refused to comply with a police officer's attempts to clear a crowd at the intersection of Forest and Bard avenues in West Brighton at 12:50 p.m. on March 1, 2015, police said. Police said McGowan, 20, punched the cop, grabbed the officer's glasses off his face, and crushed them with his hand. The officer suffered a laceration over his right eye, a police spokesman told the Advance the night of the parade. Police described McGowan as intoxicated. McGowan had disputed that version of events, which spurred probes by the NYPD's Internal Affairs Bureau and the city's Civilian Complaint Review Board. The Advance has reached out to the NYPD and CCRB to ascertain the results of those investigations. In an interview with the Advance less than two weeks after the episode, McGowan said he was drinking at a friend's house -- "two beers, three beers tops" -- on Metropolitan Avenue, at about 11:30 a.m. The group then decided to walk down to the parade, and McGowan said he walked over to a shop to buy a bagel. McGowan told the Advance a cop wouldn't let him go to the store and pushed him. McGowan said he pushed back and "was thrown over a barricade," hit his head, was handcuffed and put into a police van. After McGowan's arrest on felony assault and other charges, a short video of the arrest surfaced. It shows McGowan on the ground, yelling "Why are you touching me?" as he's surrounded by four police officers, two of whom grab his arms and pull him a few feet down the street. The video doesn't show what happened before that, and it cuts out after 20 seconds. The Advance also obtained three photographs, which embedded data shows were on the afternoon of March 2, of McGowan with two black eyes and a large scrape on his forehead. McGowan, who is bearded, appeared at Monday's proceeding in state Supreme Court, St. George, wearing eyeglasses and was garbed in a dark suit, shirt and tie. In entering his plea, he admitted to injuring Police Officer Jason Greenberg. McGowan, who has no prior arrests, will be sentenced April 14 to a one-year conditional discharge and must perform 100 hours of community service. He potentially faces up to a year in jail if he gets in trouble with the law again over the next 13 months. In a statement, District Attorney Michael E. McMahon's office said the outcome was "fair and reasonable given the issues sustaining proof beyond a reasonable doubt in the context of a fast-moving melee." "While drunk and disorderly, the defendant precipitated in a physical altercation with a uniformed New York City police officer, which resulted in both the officer and the defendant suffering injury," the statement said. "By his guilty plea, the defendant took responsibility for his actions, and now has a permanent criminal record for assault." Outside court, defense lawyer Patrick V. Parrotta declined comment on the case. BX116_1C3B_9.JPG Rep. Dan Donovan has been appointed chairman of the House Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications. (Advance file photo) By Rep. Dan Donovan I'm honored to have been appointed chairman of the House Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications. In that role, I'll be a leader in Congress in overseeing the federal government's disaster response and instituting policies that keep our communities secure. In the past 15 years, our city has endured unimaginable tragedy. In 2001, hijackers introduced New Yorkers to the murderous hatred that defines radical Islamic terror. In 2012, we were reminded that ours is a coastal city, vulnerable to the same deadly storms as our neighbors to the south. Future disasters will come, and when they do our government must be prepared. In my new role as chairman, I intend to focus on finding solutions to three questions. Can the federal government do more to protect American cities against terrorist attacks? Are coastal regions like New York prepared for the next major storm? If, God forbid, terrorists succeed in launching a major attack in the United States, or if nature wreaks devastation on our community, are federal agencies up to the task of responding efficiently and effectively? Earlier this month, President Obama released his budget proposal for next year. It takes a sledgehammer to homeland security programs for cities, including New York. Appropriations won't fall under my jurisdiction, but through the work of my subcommittee I intend to learn from the administration why they consider crucial programs like the Urban Areas Security Initiative expendable. On the natural disaster front, it's been more than three years since Hurricane Sandy ravaged the city. Since then, Sandy survivors have gone through the "storm after the storm" - fraudulent engineering reports, endless bureaucracy, and the hope but uncertainty that they'll be any better off the next time a storm comes. None of this can be pinned on any particular agency or person. What's clear, though, is government can do better. I'm honored to serve you in this new role. I've lived on Staten Island all my life. Anybody who knows me - as district attorney and now as congressman - knows that I insist on being called "Danny," my nickname since I was a baby. When I think back to the small apartment my mom and dad raised me in, how they pooled what little they earned to send their boy Danny to Monsignor Farrell High School with the hope that he would have a better life, I'm humbled that I now have the opportunity to honor their sacrifices by making a difference in keeping our city and nation secure. Safety and security are the most fundamental responsibilities of your government, and Staten Island and South Brooklyn have experienced first-hand the triumphs and failures of emergency response. I will serve you proudly as your congressman - and now, with added responsibility, as chairman of the House Subcommittee on Emergency Preparedness, Response, and Communications. The writer (R-Staten Island/Brooklyn) represents New York's 11th congressional district in the House of Representatives. STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- A Bulls Head man, who once served time for manslaughter, was sentenced Monday to seven years in state prison for possessing cocaine with the intent to sell. But authorities aren't finished with Anthony DeFina just yet. On Wednesday, he's scheduled to be sentenced in Brooklyn federal court for narcotics-distribution conspiracy in an unrelated case. In August of last year, DeFina, 41, pleaded guilty in state Supreme Court, St. George, to third-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance. DeFina admitted he had cocaine in his possession with the intent to sell when cops raided his home on Dec. 10, 2013. Also admitting guilt was another occupant of the residence, Joseph Desmond, 26. Desmond pleaded guilty to second-degree criminal possession of a controlled substance, acknowledging he had at least four ounces of cocaine in his possession. Desmond was previously sentenced to four years in behind bars and five years' post-release supervision. Besides state prison time, DeFina, a second felony offender, was sentenced to three years' post-release supervision. In 1995, DeFina was convicted in Brooklyn of first-degree manslaughter. He was sentenced to six to 18 years, and was paroled in July 2006, according to statements previously made in court. Assistant District Attorney David Frey prosecuted the Staten Island drug case. By clicking Agree, you consent to Slates Terms of Service and Privacy Policy and the use of technologies such as cookies by Slate and our partners to deliver relevant advertising on our iOS app to personalize content and perform site analytics. 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Juan Giner - INNOVATION International Media Consulting Group I got links from the Weekly Standard, Hot Air and Instapundit yesterday - but SDA was running at least equal to those in visitors clicking through to my blog. Jeff Dobbs "You may be a nasty right winger, but you're not nasty all the time!" Warren Kinsella "Go back to collecting your welfare livelihood."Michael E. Zilkowsky Intelliweather Seismic Map Comments Policy Read this Best Of SDA Hide The Decline The Bottle Genie (ClimateGate links) You Might Be A Liberal Uncrossing The Line Bob Fife: Knuckledragger A Modest Proposal (NP) Settled Science Series Y2Kyoto Series SDA: Reader Occupation Survey Brett Lamb Sheltered Workshop Flakes On A Plane All Your Weather Are Belong To Us Song Of The Sled The Raise A Flag Debacle (Now on Youtube!) 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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! 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:948 /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 125 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 157 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612ebc228e8)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f02b04c8)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612ebc228e8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1302 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 955 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f02b04c8)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612efe3bb20)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1300 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 433 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f02b04c8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f02b04c8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612e880cdd0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f02b40f0)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f02b40f0)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: 28:
29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:948 /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 125 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 157 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612f025abc0)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0261f70)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612f025abc0)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1302 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 955 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0261f70)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612f015e7a8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1300 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 433 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0261f70)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f0261f70)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612e880d8d8)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f02852d0)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f02852d0)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: 28:
29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:948 /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 125 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 157 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612ebc228e8)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612efe6f858)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612ebc228e8)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1302 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 955 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612efe6f858)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612efe3be00)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1300 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 433 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612efe6f858)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612efe6f858)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612e880cdd0)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612eff821b8)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612eff821b8)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 System error error: Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. context: ... 21: 22: 23: % foreach my $c (@categories) { 24: <%perl> 25: my $category_id = $c->get_id(); 26: my @stories = Bric::Biz::Asset::Business::Story->list ( { element_type_id=>1148, category_id=>$category_id , Order=> 'cover_date', publish_status => 't' , OrderDirection=> 'DESC' , Limit=>10 } ); 27: 28:
29: ... code stack: /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html:25 /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm:948 /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj:17 /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html:149 Can't call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25. Trace begun at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Exceptions.pm line 125 HTML::Mason::Exceptions::rethrow_exception('Can\'t call method "get_id" on an undefined value at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25.^J') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/dhandler.html line 25 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 157 HTML::Mason::Component::run_dynamic_sub('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612f01cec20)', 'main') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 948 HTML::Mason::Request::call_dynamic('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f01e6b08)', 'main') called at /var/cache/mason/obj/2011159162/main/smetimes/dhandler.html.obj line 17 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612f01cec20)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1302 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 955 HTML::Mason::Request::call_next('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f01e6b08)') called at /usr/local/bricolage/data/burn/stage/oc_1027/smetimes/autohandler_template.html line 149 HTML::Mason::Commands::__ANON__ at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Component.pm line 135 HTML::Mason::Component::run('HTML::Mason::Component::FileBased=HASH(0x5612f0222b28)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1300 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 1292 HTML::Mason::Request::comp(undef, undef, undef) called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 481 eval {...} at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/Request.pm line 433 HTML::Mason::Request::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f01e6b08)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 165 HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler::exec('HTML::Mason::Request::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612f01e6b08)') called at /usr/share/perl5/HTML/Mason/ApacheHandler.pm line 831 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handle_request('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler=HASH(0x5612e880d848)', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f024b3f0)') called at (eval 592) line 8 HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler::handler('HTML::Mason::ApacheHandler', 'Apache2::RequestRec=SCALAR(0x5612f024b3f0)') called at -e line 0 eval {...} at -e line 0 Kevin Rudd told Hillary Clinton in 2009 that while they needed to integrate China into the world community as much as possible, they also needed to be "preparing to deploy force if everything goes wrong". This conversation, leaked by Wikileaks and never denied, exposed the true thinking behind his government's defence white paper delivered that year. Australia and the US had agreed on a strategy of classic hedging, working towards the best outcome on China while preparing for the worst. And so Australia had decided on a major naval build-up, the then PM told the then US secretary of state. It was exactly this thinking that led, after seven wasted years, to the Turnbull government plan last week to implement Rudd's vision. Because while the Rudd government's white paper promised a doubling in the size of Australia's submarine fleet, for instance, as part of its build up, Rudd never properly allowed for funding it. The Rudd plan to pay for the armaments was based on a fantasy in the form of an implausibly vast cost-cutting program. The Defence Department was supposed to cut $20 billion in costs over 10 years to help pay for the dozen subs and 100 combat aircraft. He then disappeared up to his room on the fifth floor, where rumour has it he will dwell until the hearing is over except when he takes the stand. It may not be quite the Vatican style that Cardinal Pell is used to but he's not roughing it. Rome specialises in luxurious locations. It's kind of its thing. The Royal Commission chose the Quirinale mainly for its reliable broadband, to hold up the video link (which, for sure, was better than your average Skype). On this spot, in ancient Rome, was an old altar to Quirinus, a war god who became the incarnation of Romulus, a symbol of Roman strength. This is the very heart of Rome, older even than the Vatican. Now it is a four-star, 150 year-old hotel that backs onto the opera house, where Tosca once premiered. Today was a different kind of performance. In a long back room, normally reserved for seminars and weddings, rows of chairs held the survivors, their supporters, observers and media. Hotel Quirinale in Rome. Huge chandeliers hung from the ceiling, and hideous green curtains lined the walls. Carpet had been laid on the parquetry to muffle shoes so Cardinal Pell could concentrate on the questions being beamed from the other side of the world. He sat on a little dais in the corner, bent forward over the desk, his gaze fixed on the big flat screen in front of him showing the commission's cross-examining counsel. At the base of the screen, incongruous pot plants sat in gold boxes. If Cardinal Pell had flicked his eyes even a degree to the right he would have locked gaze with the group of survivors in the front row of seats. But he didn't. Even when he walked past them, metres from them, his eyes appeared busy elsewhere. Some survivors wanted to meet his gaze, to read his face for the truth. Others were just concentrating on staying in the room, as they heard descriptions of hideous old crimes and omissions. Some didn't make it all the way through. There was mostly silence in the room, media and observers intent on every question and answer. A few titters of amusement over his comments on sport, his determined humility about his undeniable power in the Vatican, and memories of the effect of the contraceptive pill on the mid-20th century priesthood ("there was a whiff of revolutionary spirit about" in the 1960s, he recalled, almost fondly). But the laughs dried up quickly as questions turned to terrible abuse by fellow priests in Victoria. Most of the Italian and world media faded away as midnight struck and the hearing trudged into its second two hours. The pace was slow, the witness' memory unreliable, and his answers getting shorter. But one departing Italian journalist told Fairfax: "The Vaticanisti (Vatican specialist journalists) were all here. Cardinal Pell is the third highest in the Vatican, and the highest ever to have his feet held to the fire. It is a big story." Also among the audience was Opus Dei Father John Wauck who teaches in the School of Church Communications at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome. During the half-time break, he seemed almost disappointed that there had not been more rigorous cross-examination of Cardinal Pell. He was far from the only dog-collared observer, and he stayed to the very end, and will be back tomorrow. There was no official Vatican presence, apart from the cardinal but his performance is not just meaningful for these gutsy survivors, or for those who couldn't make it, or didn't make it, or those in the future who may be spared. The Commonwealth has cut $1 million in annual funding to the Canberra Islamic School following a long-running investigation into its finances and connections with the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils. The decision throws the future of 216 students into immediate doubt with the school to lose its provisional ACT registration as a result. Islamic Council of Canberra chairman Mohammed Berjaoui is optimistic it can be sorted out. Credit:Rohan Thomson ACT Education Minister Shane Rattenbury said on Monday that the Education Directorate would be working to ensure all Islamic school students were accommodated in government schools from the beginning of Term 2. Federal Education Minister Simon Birmingham said of his decision to revoke the funding, "unfortunately, the authority that operates the Islamic School of Canberra was not able to demonstrate to my department that they had addressed the significant concerns about their independence, financial management and governance arrangements raised during the formal compliance review of their operations." There was a moment during Cardinal George Pell's evidence that stunned ACT child abuse campaigner Damian De Marco. Early in his first day back at the royal commission, Cardinal Pell referred to the Catholic Church's policy of following "the law of the land", or acting only in accordance with the laws of each nation. Child abuse campaigner and former Marist student Damian De Marco. Credit:Melissa Adams For Mr De Marco, a former Marist College Canberra student who has bravely become the ACT's very public face of the Catholic abuse scandal, that comment went to the root of the flawed culture plaguing the church. It went, he said, to the cause of the silence, the cover-ups, and the repeated failure of the church not to root out paedophiles within its ranks. Cash Converters International will pull back significantly in the United Kingdom and wind down its car leasing arm, Carboodle, as it tries to focus on highest-returning activities. The company also reported a return to profits, which was helped by a boom in the number of Australians taking out payday loans online. Cash Converters reported a return to profits, helped by a boom in online lending. After a strategic review of its businesses, the payday lender on Monday said it would sell its UK corporate stores and a 8.7 million ($16.9 million) personal loan book, while lifting investment in Australia. The result said the UK network had "struggled in tough trading conditions," and it would "go back to basics" by selling off its corporate stores and acting as a master franchisor. In a long history of ill-judged and poorly executed corporate acquisitions, law firm Slater & Gordon's purchase of the professional services division of UK's Quindell is a standout. It is one which now threatens Slater & Gordon's solvency and surely eventually the scalps of its chairman and chief executive. The firm laid bare the full financial catastrophe on Monday reporting a first half loss of $958 million relating mostly to impairment charges on the UK business it acquired a year ago. It now has an impossible ultimatum from its lenders: find a way to manage a banker-agreed way out of its enormous debt load within a month or, in its words, "the (bank) facility may be shortened to no earlier than 31 March 2017 if no agreement is reached". Drilling company Boart Longyear continues to be battered by the resources industry downturn with less available work, lower prices and unfavourable currency movements hitting its bottom line in 2015. Boart Longyear said its full-year net loss narrowed slightly to $US326.28 million ($457 million) from the year-earlier $US332.72 million as revenue fell 15 per cent to $US735 million. Unfavourable currency movements, including a weaker Australian dollar, contributed to about half of the decline in Boart Longyear's revenue. Credit:Paul Kane Unfavourable currency movements, including a weaker Australian dollar, contributed to about half of the $US131 million decline in revenue for the year ended December 31. Chairman Marcus Randolph said the result was weighed down by another tough year for commodity prices as major mining customers cut back on spending, particularly within exploration. Otto Frank with his daughters a young Anne and Margot. Credit:Anne Frank Stichting (Amsterdam) Her letters from Frank will be shown to the public for the first time in an exhibition, Anne Frank A History for Today, opening in March at the Sydney Jewish Museum. The museum began searching for correspondence by Otto Frank to Australians between the 1950s and 1970s in 2015. "It was such a wonderful, wonderful thing that Mr Frank wrote back to me," Skurray says. "He was very appreciative of my letters. It evolved into a long and detailed pen-friendship and we became very, very firm friends through the medium of letters. "I used to talk to him about all sorts of things. He said at one point, 'You're so much like Anne.' I know he enjoyed being a father. He found it very difficult to not have someone to be a father to." After his daughter's diary was published in 1947, detailing life living with her family and four others in a secret annexe to avoid Nazi persecution, Frank regularly received letters from young people around the world. Frank kept every letter and wrote back to each of them. In a documentary broadcast in 1967 Frank spoke about receiving such letters. "Young people write to me asking questions," he said. "Many who are writing diaries themselves, calling their diary Anne's Diary. They write to Anne as Anne wrote to Kitty [her diary]. "And so, especially in the time of adolescence, they get a lot of confidence and hope for their lives, in reading about Anne and her experiences." Dr Diana MacLean also wrote to Frank after reading The Diary of Anne Frank. "It was the first time the Second World War became a real thing," she says. "I just wanted to express my feelings and say that I had been moved by the book." It was 1963, her last year of high school, and, writing as "Dianne", MacLean told him the diary had helped her decide to become a doctor. She wrote: "I would be extremely proud to have corresponded with the father of the young girl who showed the world the futility of war which amounts to wilful murder when a war-crazied people turn to killing innocent children whose only crime is birth." In Frank's reply he noted: "Believe me it is always only the individual who is able and willing to help in creating a better world, never the masses." MacLean was astonished when she came home from school to discover the reply two months later. "My mum said, 'Well you're going to be very excited you've got a letter that you certainly never anticipated'. And there was this aerogramme and on the back the sender was 'O. Frank'. "It just was a lovely human letter. He thanked me for my expression of the power the book had had on me. And he more or less said how Anne would have hoped that would have been [so]." MacLean, who is donating her letters to Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, later moved to New Zealand. "During my first year as a junior doctor in New Zealand I wrote back telling him I had completed my studies and was a medical person and was looking forward to what opportunities my life would have. "Again, he wrote back promptly and surprised me by saying he did remember my letter. And he seemed so genuinely delighted that I had taken on what I said I was going to do. And congratulated me. "To have someone outside your family support you in something was very encouraging. My first year at university was 1964 and, I think it's fair to say, fewer women did medicine in those days. "If I hinted to people what I wanted to do they would say, 'Oh, a woman going to be doctor' because it was unusual then. "So I tended not to tell many people. To have Mr Frank's encouragement meant a great deal." Skurray, who last saw Frank in 1979, a year before he died, is also donating the 11 letters she received from him to the Amsterdam museum. She eventually also became a close friend of Frank's second wife Elfriede "Fritzi" Frank and visited the family many times. Thinking back to that hot summer's day, she remembers bringing a present for him. His Oscar run began in 1994, with a nomination for best supporting actor for What's Eating Gilbert Grape; after that, he was up for best actor for The Aviator, Blood Diamond and The Wolf Of Wall Street. (As one of the producers of The Wolf Of Wall Street, he also missed on a best picture win.) But this is hardly an argument to justify this win. It's not a lifetime achievement award: it's meant to be for an individual performance. Others have missed out many times more. Richard Burton was nominated for seven awards; Peter O'Toole for eight. As it happens, best actor was a weak field this year. It was nothing like the best actress category, in which Brie Larson was also a strong favourite: this was a field with several worthy winners. So with the suffering and the waiting, it seemed like a foregone conclusion. Even so, although we don't know why the Academy members voted the way they did but we do know that some of them did not buy the "it's time" or "he suffered" argument. The Hollywood Reporter has in recent years run a series called "brutally honest Oscar ballot", in which anonymous Academy members people who actually cast the votes talk about their choices. It's a small sample: this year there were only four interviews. But they articulated a range of responses to DiCaprio's performance, and only one of them voted for him. Even though the diversity debate is fairly simple to understand, and reasonable and fair-minded people mostly sit on one side of it, finding the right tone to crack it open at this year's Academy Awards was always going to be a tough call. Ignore it? Embrace it? Underplay it? Over-egg it? How best to handle the fact that the film industry's most important award had, not for the first time, virtually shut out actors of colour in favour of an all-white lineup of nominees? For weeks it has dominated pre-Oscar chatter. It even has its own hashtag #OscarsSoWhite which the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has been wearing like a pair concrete boots in a low-budget mafia thriller. Lady Gaga has received a standing ovation for her emotional performance of Til It Happens to You surrounded by sexual assault survivors at the 2016 Oscars. Gaga and songwriter Diane Warren were nominated for Best Original Song for the ballad written for 2015 college campus sexual assault documentary, The Hunting Ground. Singer-songwriter Lady Gaga performs onstage during the 88th Academy Awards. Credit:Getty Images The Grammy winner was joined on stage by dozens of sexual assault survivors who had messages such as "unbreakable" and "it's not your fault" scrawled on their arms, which they later raised in a powerful sign of strength. Leaked pamphlets, to feature in an upcoming campaign against same-sex marriage, suggest children of gay and lesbian parents are more prone to "abuse and neglect" and more likely to be unemployed, abuse drugs and suffer depression. The pamphlets, which have been authorised by a former parliamentary secretary to John Howard, indicate the potential lines of attack for the "no" campaign at a national plebiscite on same-sex marriage. Labor and marriage equality campaigners have argued against a plebiscite, saying it will unleash divisive attacks on the gay and lesbian community. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has said he has faith Australians will participate in a plebiscite in a civil and sensible manner. The government is finalising the mechanism for the plebiscite to be held after the next election. Malcolm Turnbull has elevated trust and economic competence as the key requirements in a changing economy just as real estate overtakes mining to become Australia's most profitable industry. Real estate produced $8.6 billion of taxable profit in a quarter, ahead of the old mainstay of mining, which produced just $3.6 billion. Speaking at a Canberra-based, hi-tech defence company, CEA Technologies, the Prime Minister returned to his favoured territory of agility and innovation, in a noticeable change of rhetoric after a week in which he had been widely criticised for being too negative about Labor's negative gearing plans. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has been moved to tears while telling the story of an elderly Indigenous woman who recalls her mother singing to her in the dying Ngunnawal language as a child. Mr Turnbull heard of the Moss Vale woman while learning a passage in Canberra's traditional Aboriginal language for his Closing the Gap address earlier this month. "It's an interesting story," Mr Turnbull tells Stan Grant, managing editor of NITV news and current affairs, in an interview for his new show The Point. Rome: Cardinal George Pell has declared he has the "full backing of the Pope" on arrival at the second day of his cross-examination over sexual abuse in the Catholic Church in Australia. It was his only comment, prompted by a question about his meeting with the Pope on Monday. Pope Francis and Cardinal Pell met face to face at the Vatican on Monday, just hours after the Australian cleric's first session giving evidence by video link to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. Cardinal George Pell was aware of the existence of clerical sexual abuse in the early 1970s but failed to recognise widespread offending when he was a junior priest in Ballarat, despite gossip that Christian Brothers there were assaulting children. Cardinal Pell gave his long-awaited evidence into his knowledge of alleged sexual offences in Ballarat to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse by video link from Rome on Monday. In a hearing expected to last four days, Cardinal Pell told the commission that abuse by Catholic clergy was "on the radar" in the 1970s due to offending by Monsignor John Day, who died in 1978. It's easy to see why so many year 12 students focus on achieving a rank of 90-plus. Schools love to publicise their results on their websites in newspaper advertisements, and on posters at tram stops and bus tops. This is one of hundreds of questions posted each year on student forums, such as boredofstudies.org, about the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank. Students want tips on how to get over 90 and how their study scores can translate into a high ATAR. Access all areas: ATAR is a number and a rank but very few courses require 90-plus. Credit:Matt Davidson "Hey guys...So..Is it easy getting an ATAR above 90, even just 91?" Many private and some government schools like to crow about how many of their students achieve an ATAR of 99 and above, and how many got scores of 90 and above. A year 12 student on another forum wrote: "Selective school mentality: Under 95 ATAR, you are crap." So much seems to ride on ATARs of 90 and above that students as well as their parents are almost conditioned to think that a high ranking is a sign of complete success. The reality is that most students arrive at university with an ATAR of less than 90. It is a rank, and therefore only some students will get 90 and above. The ATAR shows a student's achievement in relation to other students. It's also not a complete sign of "success". The ATAR may indicate whether students have had intensive tutoring, how well their school is resourced and how much family support they receive. The Finance Department has denied understating the cost of its new $376 million office block to the Parliament. Instead the Department has defended its approach to the Parliamentary Committee process, saying it followed "long-standing practice" to supply a figure of $195 million to the cross-party Committee who examined key aspects of the decision to lease the state-of-the-art 1 Canberra Avenue. The new building at One Canberra Avenue, as it appears on the developer's website. Credit:Willemsen Government contracting website AusTender shows Finance will pay developer Willemsen $376 million for a 20-year lease on the building and two members of the Public Works Committee who examined the deal in 2015 have told Fairfax the higher figure was news to them. Fake invoices were used to misappropriate millions of dollars of Botany Bay ratepayer funds, according to a corruption inquiry also set to examine the alleged misuse of council cars, phones, etags and fuel cards by staff and their relatives. Counsel assisting the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), told Monday's hearing that the more than $4.2 million diverted through fraudulent invoices by council's former chief financial officer Gary Goodman and others was just the tip of the iceberg. "These amounts are only for the period from the beginning of 2009," Sydney silk Murugan Thangaraj said. "ICAC has evidence of false invoicing stretching back to 1997." Mr Goodman is the principal person of interest for Operation Ricco, which coincides with a fraught period for the embattled corruption watchdog facing sustained attack over its controversial inquiry into Crown Prosecutor Margaret Cunneen, SC. Brisbane could see more than 5 million passengers and 2400 mega cruises using a new Luggage Point cruise ship terminal within 10 years. But there's one problem: Sydney wants a slice of the same traffic. P&O says it's cruise ships are getting bigger, requiring larger berths. Credit:Tamara Voninski And those footing the bill for Port of Brisbane's new facility say it's become a race. Whoever finishes their cruise ship terminal first will win millions of tourist dollars, they say. Carnival Cruises Australia chief executive Ann Sherry told industry representatives at the Port of Brisbane on Monday morning Sydney's cruise ship facilities will be at "capacity" in 2017 and plans are already in place to expand. Lord Mayor Graham Quirk has left the door open to selling the operational rights to his proposed inner-city Brisbane Metro scheme. The $1.54 billion project has been the single most expensive commitment of the 2016 Brisbane City Council election campaign so far, with Labor's light rail proposal coming in at $1.2 billion. Lord Mayor Graham Quirk has left all funding options on the table for his proposed Brisbane Metro. Speaking at a media conference on Monday, during which he announced the delivery of the 300th new bus of his current term, Cr Quirk said all funding options were on the table. That included the sale of operational rights, in a similar vein to the council's Go Between Bridge and Legacy Way toll road projects. Queensland's police minister says the Port Arthur massacre made him stop using guns to kill rats at his residential properties. The state Opposition has Bill Byrne in its sights, after he admitted using firearms to dispose of vermin at residential properties more than 20 years ago. Police Minister Bill Byrne occasionally used guns to shoot rats. Credit:Chris Hyde He said he stopped the practice, gave up his recreational hunting trips and surrendered all the weapons he owned after the 1996 massacre claimed the lives of 35 people in Tasmania. The former army officer said he was the victim of a long-running smear campaign in his Rockhampton electorate, that's also seen him falsely accused of firing a gun during a dispute with his wife. A man accused of brutally bludgeoning a Queensland grandmother to death withdrew more than $20,000 from her bank account in the months before she died, a court has heard. Steven Mark John Fennell has pleaded not guilty to the murder of 85-year-old Liselotte Watson on Macleay Island, in Moreton Bay, around November 12, 2012. The Supreme Court trial continues. Crown prosecutor Glen Cash told the court the grandmother was "brutally and callously" murdered in her bedroom, with forensic analysis suggesting she was struck in the head four to six times with an object consistent with a hammer. He said Fennell was friends with the fiercely independent widow, mowing her lawns and doing her shopping, and was even entrusted with making withdrawals from her bank account in the months preceding her death. Australia's "most progressive" medicinal marijuana legislation, which would give more sick Queenslanders access to the presently illegal drug, has been released for public comment. If passed, the Public Health (Medicinal Cannabis) Bill 2016 would create a formal process for Queensland doctors to prescribe medicinal cannabis for their patients' treatment. The Queensland government is set to release its proposed legislation to allow the use of medicinal cannabis. The government last year announced medicinal cannabis trials at the Lady Cilento Children's Hospital for children with drug-resistant epilepsy. The Australian Medical Association of Queensland welcomed that trial, but warned against a "laissez-faire" approach to the drug and urged proper scientific trials. A man has been jailed for eight years for attempting to murder a corpse. Supreme Court Justice Paul Coghlan on Monday said there was "an air of unreality" about the unusual case and no one would ever really know what happened on the night Daniel Darrington shot Rocky Matskassy three times in the head at point blank range. Daniel Darrington arriving at court in December. Credit:Pat Scala Darrington, 39, was found guilty by a jury in October last year of attempting to murder Mr Matskassy, 31, after he was already likely to have been dead. He was jailed for eight years with a non-parole period of five years. There has been a spike in serious injuries recorded on trams and at tram stops amid concerns that Melbourne's elderly could be most at risk. Transport researchers fear an ageing population could become particularly vulnerable to injury on trams that are larger, more crowded, and in mixed traffic conditions in which they are prone to sudden braking. Modifications on trams are being studied to see if they can be made safer for elderly passengers. Credit:Eddie Jim Yarra Trams and Monash University have begun to investigate how to reduce the risk of injury among the elderly, including modifying tram interiors. Data published last week by the public transport safety watchdog shows Yarra Trams reported 47 serious injuries last year, 17 of which were on-board and 30 to people outside a tram. There were 31 serious injuries in 2014. Victoria is not ruling out building the $10.9 billion Melbourne Metro Rail project without federal funding, after walking away empty-handed from a meeting with the Turnbull government. Public Transport Minister Jacinta Allan flew to Canberra on Monday to push the state's request for $4.5 billion to help build the rail project, which is seen as vital to coping with the increasing capacity of the network. Victoria has set aside $4.5 billion for the twin nine kilometre cross-city rail tunnels. After releasing the business case last week, Premier Daniel Andrews said he wanted the Turnbull government to become an equal partner in the project ahead of the May state and federal budgets. The business case concluded the project would return at least $1.10 for every $1 invested using conservative assumptions, or about $1.50 when so-called wider economic benefits were included in the analysis. Jakarta: Kalijodo one of Jakarta's most notorious red light districts since the days of Dutch colonialism ended not with a bang but with a whimper. Authorities were braced for trouble after ugly clashes between police and residents last year during the forced eviction of the flood-prone Kampung Pulo slums in east Jakarta in order to expand the capacity of the river. But on the final day of the eviction of more than 3000 residents from Kalijodo the drizzly streets were almost deserted. A confused homeless man was one of the few Fairfax Media saw escorted out of the area. Bulldozers crushed the paper thin walls of houses, drinking holes and brothels, where just weeks ago about 500 prostitutes had worked for around 200,000 rupiah ($20) for half an hour. In addition to opening "a door to conversation", she said, Mr Trump's surging candidacy which has the support of former KKK grand wizard David Duke, among others has done something else: It has electrified some members of the movement. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has been praised by former KKK leader and Louisiana politician David Duke. Credit:AP "They like the overall momentum of his rallies and his campaign," Ms Pendergraft said. "They like that he's not willing to back down. He says what he believes and he stands on that." For large numbers of Americans, Mr Trump's blunt rhetoric surrounding immigration, minority groups and crime may sound like finely tuned retrograde vitriol. But for Ms Pendergraft and a growing number of white nationalists flocking to the campaign's circus-like tent, the billionaire sounds familiar, like a man fluent in the native tongue of disaffected whites. Donald Trump has not responded to requests for comment about his support among white supremacists. Credit:AP It's a language people such as Ms Pendergraft never thought they'd hear a mainstream politician in either party use in public. And they're desperately hoping Mr Trump's rise from reality-show figure to Republican front runner may be the beginning of something that transcends the campaign trail. The same rhetoric that frightens critics ("Trump has really lifted the lid off a Pandora's box of real hatred and directed it at Muslims," the Southern Poverty Law Centre's Mark Potok said) draws praise from supporters such as Mr Duke, the former KKK leader and Louisiana politician. The support Mr Trump has received from Mr Duke has drawn new scrutiny in recent days. Asked on Sunday by CNN's Jake Tapper to "unequivocally condemn" Mr Duke, Mr Trump pleaded ignorance. "Just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke, OK?" Mr Trump said. Tapper pressed him several more times to disavow Mr Duke and the KKK, but Mr Trump again declined. "I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists," he said. "So I don't know. I don't know did he endorse me, or what's going on? Because I know nothing about David Duke; I know nothing about white supremacists." Mr Duke said in December that while he has not officially endorsed Mr Trump, he considers the candidate to be the "best of the lot" at the moment. "I think a lot of what he says resonates with me," Mr Duke said. On his radio show last week, Mr Duke encouraged listeners to cast their ballots for the candidate, saying that "voting against Donald Trump at this point is really treason to your heritage". "I'm not saying I endorse everything about Trump, in fact I haven't formally endorsed him," Mr Duke said, in remarks reported by Buzzfeed. "But I do support his candidacy, and I support voting for him as a strategic action. I hope he does everything we hope he will do." Two days before his interview with Tapper, Mr Trump brushed off Mr Duke's support, telling reporters in Texas on Friday: "David Duke endorsed me? OK, all right. I disavow, OK?" On Monday after saying "I know nothing about David Duke; I know nothing about white supremacists" Mr Trump told the Today show that his refusal to disavow Mr Duke a day earlier was the result of a "very bad earpiece". NBC's Savannah Guthrie asked Mr Trump why he'd refuse to repudiate Mr Duke on CNN when he'd already done so on Friday. "I'm sitting in a house in Florida with a very bad earpiece that they gave me, and you could hardly hear what he was saying," Mr Trump said. "But what I heard was various groups, and I don't mind disavowing anybody, and I disavowed David Duke and I disavowed him the day before at a major news conference, which is surprising because he was at the major news conference, CNN was at the major news conference, and they heard me very easily disavow David Duke. "Now, I go, and I sit down again, I have a lousy earpiece that is provided by them, and frankly, he talked about groups. He also talked about groups. And I have no problem with disavowing groups, but I'd at least like to know who they are. It would be very unfair to disavow a group, Matt, if the group shouldn't be disavowed. I have to know who the groups are. But I disavowed David Duke." Months earlier, Mr Trump discussed Mr Duke with Bloomberg News, saying: "I don't need his endorsement; I certainly wouldn't want his endorsement. I don't need anyone's endorsement." When Bloomberg's Mark Halperin and John Heilemann asked whether he would repudiate Mr Duke's support, Mr Trump replied: "Sure, I would if that would make you feel better." Mr Trump's campaign has not responded to multiple requests from The Post seeking comment about the candidate's support among white supremacists. The candidate does not endorse white supremacist groups, and his campaign fired two staff last year for posting racially offensive material on social media. Mr Trump also shocked some conservatives by criticising Justice Antonin Scalia after Justice Scalia argued last year that black students would perform better in "slower-track" universities. That's not entirely true, however. For voters interested in policy, Mr Trump has indeed been frustratingly vague. The issues page on his campaign website is sparse. On some matters, he refuses to be pinned down. On others, he openly admits not knowing much, as he did when asked in Nevada recently about federal land ownership in the West. "I think Boeing is doing a little bit of a number. We want Boeing to make a lot of money, but not that much money": Donald Trump. Credit:AP Nonetheless, in eight months of campaigning, 10 debates and scores of speeches and interviews, the New York billionaire has set out his top priorities and given a fairly clear sense of how a President Trump might approach his job. In ideological terms, Mr Trump scrambles traditional lines - borrowing some ideas from the left, others from the right. Republican presidential candidate Senator Marco Rubio is the leading mainstream Republican contender. Credit:AP He shows no particular interest, for example, in the long-standing conservative Republican goal of shrinking the size of the federal government. Asked in Thursday's debate how he would balance the federal budget, he fell back on the slogan of eliminating "waste, fraud and abuse" and named only two specifics that he would cut: the Common Core education standards, which aren't a federal spending program, and Environmental Protection Agency regulatory powers that he said he would shift to the states. Indeed, one of his most specific pledges - to reject any cuts to Social Security or Medicare - points in the other direction. Coupled with his pledge to increase military spending, Mr Trump's refusal to cut programs for the elderly would put about 60 per cent of the federal budget off limits. Going for broke in Florida and Ohio: Senator Ted Cruz speaks during a caucus night rally in Las Vegas. Credit:Bloomberg He has also, at least in general terms, endorsed a role for the federal government in guaranteeing healthcare coverage. In Thursday's debate, he resisted taking a more conservative position when Senators Cruz and Rubio prodded him on the issue. In contrast to his vagueness on the size of government, Mr Trump is absolutely clear on the central theme of how he sees the presidency: the personal use of executive power. In almost every statement he makes, Mr Trump depicts the presidency as an arena in which he would fix problems through the exercise of his will and negotiating ability. A characteristic comment came in an interview with ABC's "This Week" in response to a question about Russian President Vladimir Putin. "I have been an extremely successful deal maker. That's what I've done over years," Mr Trump said. "And I know people, because deals are people. And I think I'll get along very well, for the good of our country.... I'll get along fine with Putin." Mr Trump's rivals in the GOP race routinely denounce President Barack Obama as having exceeded the powers of his office. Mr Trump says Mr Obama acted "stupidly" and made the wrong decisions, but he's less likely to emphasise the claim that Mr Obama has tried to make the office too powerful. Even the most forceful modern presidents, however, quickly discover the limits of what they can do. "It's not that he can come in, start with a clean sheet of paper," said Andrew Card, who worked for the last three Republican presidents, including 5 1/2 years as George W. Bush's chief of staff. Congress, the courts and the bureaucracy of federal agencies guard their own prerogatives. "Governors tend to understand that better than CEOs," who have far more authority over their companies than a president has over the government, Card said. "When you're the president, you're not a dictator." That's not to say a president lacks power. Some of Mr Trump's most controversial plans could be carried out by executive authority. Many legal experts believe, for example, that Mr Trump could impose his plan to bar most foreign Muslims from entering the US, at least for a while, because the president has broad authority over immigration, particularly where it intersects with national security. "He will have a very easy time doing whatever he can do through executive authority alone. That includes the conduct of foreign relations, up to a point," said William Galston of Washington's Brookings Institution, who worked in the White House under President Clinton. By contrast, "he would have a hard time doing anything that requires the cooperation of Congress." If elected, Mr Trump would take office after what amounts to a hostile takeover of the Republican Party and over the opposition of Democrats. He probably would not be able to count on much support from either side on Capitol Hill. That would mean trouble for his promises to build a wall along the Mexican border or to round up and deport the roughly 11 million people currently in the US without legal authorisation. Both would require Congress to approve billions of dollars in new appropriations even if Mr Trump could pressure the Mexican government into reimbursing the U.S. for the cost of the wall, which Mexico says it won't consider. On foreign policy, a President Trump would face a different set of constraints - other countries. Mr Trump has repeatedly denounced current arrangements under which the US guarantees to defend its allies in Europe and Japan, saying Americans are getting taken advantage of. "Those days are gone," he said a few weeks ago at a New Hampshire rally. If Mr Trump really wants to end that obligation, he would have to do away with treaties that have defined US foreign relations since the 1950s, including the US-Japan defense treaty. That possibility has already begun worrying the Japanese, said Kori Schake, a former aide to George W. Bush who recently met with Japanese officials to discuss defense issues. Any move to change the treaty could cause allies in Asia to reconsider their cooperation on issues the US cares about, she noted. The change also would not save the sort of money Mr Trump suggests. Japan, Germany and South Korea pay much of the cost of keeping US troops in their countries, so stationing forces in Japan costs only about 10% more than keeping them in rural Texas, said Mr Schake, a research fellow at Stanford's Hoover Institution. Other Mr Trump promises go far beyond what a president can do. A staple of Mr Trump's recent stump speeches, for example, has been to criticise Carrier Corporation, a unit of United Technologies, for its plan to move two air-conditioner manufacturing plants from Indiana to Mexico, which he said would cost 1400 US jobs. "If I'm the president, here's what we do," Mr Trump told about 5000 people at a recent rally at a casino resort in Las Vegas. "We write them a little note we congratulate them on their move; we hope it goes well." There's never going to be a wall. Mexico is not paying for anything. Apple's not building iPhones in the United States. "And we tell them the following. We tell them that every time you make an air-conditioning unit, and every time you send that unit into the United States, you're going to pay a 35 per cent tax." A long, sustained roar of cheers filled the arena. But the president has no power to impose taxes, and retaliatory tariffs can only be applied in specific circumstances defined by complex laws and regulations. Congress has rejected far milder proposals to retaliate against companies that move manufacturing jobs overseas. Republicans in particular have opposed such ideas, which might preserve thousands of manufacturing jobs, but would also immediately and sharply raise costs for millions of US consumers. WARNING: GRAPHIC CONTENT A woman holding a child's severed head at a busy Moscow metro station has been arrested and charged with murdering a young child in her care. The woman, suspected of having psychological problems, was shouting "I am a terrorist" in Russian and threatened to blow herself up, according to local news reports. In footage purportedly of the incident posted online, the woman is seen dressed in black near an entrance to Oktyabrskoye Pole metro station in northwest Moscow. PHILIPSBURG:--- KPSM St. Maarten was hit another hard blow early Monday morning when they got information that officer Alexander Boasman passed away after being involved in a serious motorcycle accident on December 31st 2015. Officer Boasman who was in a coma and had suffered other serious injuries was transported to the Dominican Republic early January for further medical treatment. While Members of Parliament extended condolences to the families of the late officer Boasman and KPSM. Chief of Police Carl John confirmed that his young colleague passed away early Monday morning and that management of KPSM was informed early in the morning. KPSM Officer Anselmo Alexander Boasman passed away. Sint Maarten Police Force is deeply saddened by the death of Anselmo Alexander-Boasman. Our beloved colleague passed away in the early morning of Monday February, 29th 2016, at the age of 24 in Santo Domingo. Anselmo was hospitalized in Santo Domingo since the first of January 2016 for medical treatment, after a traffic accident on the 31st of December. Our hearts and prayers go out to his family and his friends during this most difficult time. KPSM Police Report St. Maarten is one step closer in getting a general hospital PHILIPSBURG:--- On Friday February 26th Social and Health Insurances SZV signed a consulting contract with Dutch engineering firm Royal HaskoningDHV as part of the first phase of the development of the new national hospital of St.Maarten. Royal HaskoningDHV was one of the four companies that submitted proposals as part of a bidding process managed by KPMG. Present at the signing were Minister of Public Health Emil Lee, Glen Carty Interim Director of SZV, Robert Jan James Supervisory Board member of SMMC, Eduard Boonstra of Royal HaskoningDHV and Henk de Zeeuw of KPMG as project manager. The engineering firm has its head office in the Netherlands and specializes in sustainable and innovative hospital solutions globally. Royal HaskoningDHV will be teaming up with ICE NV, a local engineering consultancy on St. Maarten. The four consulting engineer bids that were received mid-February; Lievense, Arcadis, ICE NV and Royal HaskoningDHV, were evaluated by representatives from the Ministry of Public Health, SZV and SMMC with support of legal and financial council. The evaluation criterias were; expertise in development of hospitals regionally and globally, pricing and use of local resources. Royal HaskoningDHV presented the most attractive proposal based on expertise, pricing and local content. Royal HaskoningDHV is an independent international engineering and project management consultancy that will bring over 130 years of experience to support SZV and the government with this project. The firms portfolio includes projects such as the Honliv Hospital in China, Hvidovre Hospital in Copenhagen- Denmark, Erasmus Medical Center in Rotterdam Netherlands, Maasland Hospital in Rotterdam Netherlands and many more. Royal HaskoningDHV will now be a part of the second phase of the new hospital project which is to prepare the tender documentation in search of a turnkey developer, this should be completed in May of this year. Minister Lee congratulated both SZV and SMMC with this important milestone and welcomed Royal HaskoningDHV to St. Maarten. Minister Lee commented, "I am delighted to see that the open approach to the construction of the new general hospital by SZV, under the leadership of Glen Carty, is bearing fruit already. I am thrilled with the choice of Royal HaskoningDHV in partnership with ICE NV. Engaging with a local company was an important part of the selection criteria. As much as possible, the money that is invested into the process of building a new hospital should stay in St. Maarten. This creates employment and stimulates the economy. Im looking forward to the next steps." CeBIT Premiere: New App-Based, CRM-Cloud Solutions for Small Companies Posted by Publisher Hardware KARLSRUHE, GERMANY (Marketwired) 02/29/16 CAS Software AG to unveil new customer-centric solutions for relationship management. You can expect to see the new app-based, CRM-Cloud solution for small companies based on CAS SmartDesign Technology. Widely recognized as a powerful and flexible CRM solution, CAS genesisWorld has gained a number of new features with this release which will help SMEs to further improve their competitive advantage. In addition, manufacturers of variant-rich products can discover how they can use the CAS Configurator Merlin to bundle their product knowledge and make time savings of up to 90% on creating customer quotes. You can visit CAS Software AG and their partners from March 14 18, 2016 on stand A28 in hall 4 at the CeBIT in Hannover. CeBIT visitors will be the first to experience the new app-based, CRM-Cloud solution live: What were talking about here is a smart solution which has been designed specifically for small, and in particular, customer-oriented companies. These companies often require a CRM solution which offers them intuitive operation, flexibility, and increasingly, data storage they can trust all for a reasonable price regardless of the platform. Our goal is to impress and delight these small companies with fascinatingly simple CRM software which was Made in Germany and which offers them the best price-performance ratio on the market, combined with certified data protection criteria. Data is stored exclusively in German data centers according to German data protection regulations where it is also protected from any unwanted, third-party access, explained Martin Hubschneider, CEO, CAS Software AG. The worldwide unique SmartDesign Technology is the common thread weaving all the companys solutions together, from the mobile solutions based on the CAS genesisWorld complete solution through to the latest CRM-Cloud applications for small companies. This technology enables users to switch seamlessly between iOS, Android or Windows devices when working on or offline. And whats more in the interests of achieving the optimal user experience, the apps can be grouped together and customized to suit individual user requirements. The eagerly-awaited release of the new x8 version of CAS genesisWorld is scheduled for spring 2016. Generally recognized as a complete CRM solution, pundits expect to see a number of exciting new features like intelligent full-text searching also known as SmartSearch 3.0. This technology has revolutionized searching in both CRM and xRM systems and provides users with super-fast search hits while they are entering their search query, similar to Google search. All of your CRM data is included in the search as well as the content of both Word and PDF documents. Companies can adapt the search criteria to suit their needs in the new version. The Web variant of CAS genesisWorld offers new reporting options, for example, you can now dynamically create all your analyses of customer and project data using drag & drop to form pivot tables. Filter options have been extended and now form the basis of customer-oriented communications in letter and e-mail correspondence. Additionally, other key professional functions have been added to the areas of: project, sales, and service management ensuring smoother processes, better resource planning and the efficient recording of working time and expenses. The unique market combination of leading CRM solutions in the form of CAS genesisWorld and the product configurator CAS Configurator Merlin ensure a consistent sales process that can yield up to 90% time savings when creating customer quotes for variant-rich products. For example, in the area of mechanical and plant engineering, the configurator can ensure that comprehensive product knowledge is stored, documented, edited and augmented centrally. Enabling companies to stay agile, accurate and fast when making regional changes to their product portfolios. With a partner network in more than 30 countries, software available in 11 languages and Unicode capabilities, CAS products are already fit for use at a global level. Hall 4, stand A28 CAS Software AG was founded by Martin Hubschneider and Ludwig Neer in 1986. Today, the company develops software solutions with a passion for Customer Centricity and has become the German CRM market leader for small and medium-sized enterprises. A reputation further bolstered by its pioneering solutions in the area of xRM the all-round customer relationship management for the next generation. The product portfolio includes CRM applications, xRM solutions and tailored industry solutions. Companies and organizations benefit from these solutions by forming successful and sustainable business relationships which make better use of corporate knowledge while increasing employee efficiency. More than 250,000 users work with CAS Software products on a daily basis. The CRM and xRM experts from Karlsruhe are actively involved in many research projects at both national and international levels. The company has received many awards for its innovative products and its contributions to the SME sector, some of which include the Employer of the Year prize from the national TopJob competition and overall winner of the Top100 competition as Innovator of the Year. Image Available: Alexander Dupps Press Officer Phone: +49 721 9638-782 E-mail: CAS-Weg 1 5 76131 Karlsruhe Germany Press news and information about CAS at: Conductor and MoreVisibility Jumpstart Clients Marketing Strategies With New Services Packages NEW YORK, NY (Marketwired) 02/29/16 , the leading provider of , has teamed up with full service interactive advertising agency to deliver a unique line of digital marketing services. The new Jumpstart Packages are four-month sprints of work focused on discovery, strategy, and the implementation of critical digital marketing campaigns specifically designed for clients without the people resources or talent within their in-house teams. Weve seen so many companies that delay the execution of their organic digital strategy due to in-house resource constraints that we were compelled to offer a new solution to the market. The Jumpstart Packages allow companies to reap the benefits of investing in the organic channel, while removing the barriers of time, resources, and significant funds, said Seth Besmertnik, CEO Conductor. For Conductor making the decision to Partner with MoreVisibility to execute on these packages was a no brainer. They have been a trusted agency partner for over three years, and their work across numerous marketing disciplines speaks for itself. Conductor and MoreVisibility worked closely together to create packages for the most common digital needs: content creation, blogging, technical optimization, social media campaigns, and link building, all leveraging the Conductor platform. MoreVisibility has been working with Conductor for the past few years (and named their ) and we are extremely impressed with their organization. It was only natural to form this partnership, given the mutual desire by both companies to help advertisers maximize results for SEO and Content Marketing within the digital landscape. We are excited to bring together the power of the Conductor Searchlight platform with our talented, experienced team, said Danielle Leitch, Executive Vice President at MoreVisibility. Get more information on this program by contacting Conductor directly. The Conductor Searchlight platform generates customer intent insights that lead to compelling content, increased traffic, and higher organic marketing ROI. Conductor enables marketers to understand their prospective customers intent by revealing the trends and topics they are searching for at every phase of purchase process. Customizable dashboards and workflows guide marketers through the content creation process, empowering them to continuously measure, refine, and demonstrate the effectiveness of their SEO and content marketing efforts. Conductors forward-thinking customers include global brands like Citibank and FedEx, emerging leaders like Birchbox and Munchkin. Conductor was ranked #38 by Inc. Magazine in its Fastest Growing Private Companies list, and has been recognized by Crains Best Places to Work in America for six years running. Founded in 1999 and based in Boca Raton, FL, MoreVisibility is one of the nations leading interactive marketing agencies specializing in Search Engine Optimization, Search Engine Marketing, Google Analytics, Design, and Social Media. For over 16 years, MoreVisibility has helped hundreds of businesses with their online marketing needs. From 2005 to 2010, the agency was named in the Inc. 500 / Inc. 5000 list of the nations fastest-growing, privately-owned firms. MoreVisibility is also a Google Analytics Certified Partner, Google Analytics Premium Authorized Reseller, Google Tag Manager Certified Partner, and Microsoft Advertising Accredited Professional. MoreVisibility boasts high client retention through a team of 45 senior professionals who deliver superior performance and measurable results. Notable clients served include: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Memorial Healthcare System, Miami Dolphins, Direct Marketing Association (DMA), and Boise State University. MoreVisibility can be found on the web at . Contact: Katherine Heisler WMD Founds Subsidiary for Managed Services in Bratislava WMD (Workflow Management and Document Consulting), Ahrensburg/Germany, now offers its customers managed services for the administration of their WMD solutions. The activities are to be housed in the new subsidiary WMD CEE s.r.o., founded in Bratislava, Slovakia. The managing director is 45-year-old Sven Rossbach, former Managing Director of the transnational Shared Services Center of Allianz AG at Allianz Business Services (Bratislava). Companies operating on an international level increasingly expect extended support for implemented solutions and for various administrative tasks. In response to customer requests, WMD has consolidated its experience in the area managed services and is transferring this know-how to its new subsidiary. The advantages presented by the new location in Bratislava, Slovakia, now allow WMD to offer attractive pricing for customer-oriented service packages and a uniform managed-services concept. Trained specialists will handle extended maintenance and administrative tasks for WMD customers. Managing Director Sven Rossbach describes the offerings as follows: Depending on which service package a customer has selected, we handle their administration in part or as a whole, with extended maintenance agreements. This allows us to continue reinforcing positive contact between our customers and our support. Located as it is in the CEE region, WMD CEE will also take on the coordination of WMD sales activities and offer support in projects in the area. WMDs Managing Director Andreas Karge comments, For years, Bratislava has been one of the most important nearshore locations for service providers delivering to European customers in the managed services area. As a result of its geographical location and infrastructure, the city is exceptionally well-connected to all European countries, with a population that is highly-educated and multilingual. These are important criteria for providing first-rate services from the heart of Europe. JFrog Announces Dates and All-Star Lineup for Annual swampUP SANTA CLARA, CA (Marketwired) 02/29/16 swampUP 2016 unites DevOps pros and developers to jump-start software delivery Keynote speaker Adrian Cockcroft leads impressive lineup of speakers from Yahoo!, Netflix, Google, Atlassian, Riot Games and Pivotal Early bird registration is currently open, discount ends today today announced that its second annual user conference will take place on May 23-24, 2016, in Napa, Calif. The two-day event will gather leading developers and DevOps engineers from around the world to exchange knowledge, new ideas and best practices around continuous integration and continuous delivery (CI/CD), and provide a unique opportunity for attendees to meet and build relationships with fellow users and community leaders. Last years inaugural event gathered the worlds top developer and DevOps thought leaders to discuss the revolutionary ways they develop, release and distribute software. This year, swampUP will once again rally the industrys experts and pioneers for two full days packed with user and community presentations, hands-on training sessions and exclusive networking opportunities that will provide attendees with the resources they need to maximize the potential of the most innovative CI/CD and DevOps tools on the market. Developers and DevOps engineers from the most recognizable companies in the world are using the JFrog platform to support their rapid software delivery cycles, said Shlomi Ben Haim, co-founder and CEO of JFrog. swampUP offers a unique domain for these professionals to learn how others in the field are using our technology and develop valuable relationships with each other. As we build upon the momentum created by the huge success of last years event, we are very excited about what swampUP 2016 has in store. The confirmed speaker lineup for swampUP 2016, with more to be announced, currently includes keynote speaker Adrian Cockcroft, DevOps Visionary at Battery Ventures, as well as several Fortune 500 customers: Tim Pettersen, Sr. Developer & Developer Advocate, Atlassian Kevin Nilson, Tech Lead & Manager, Solutions Engineer, Google Jon Schneider, Sr. Software Engineer, Netflix Nadav Cohen, Sr. Software Engineer, Netflix Josh Long, Spring Developer Advocate, Pivotal Carl Quinn, Software Architect, Riot Games Allen Reese, Software Architect, Yahoo! New to this years event is a second full day of hands-on training sessions on , and , during which attendees can meet with JFrog experts to learn about product direction and ask technical questions. This expands upon the first day of informational talks including customer use cases, company and product roadmap presentations, and thought leadership and market overview sessions. The event will wrap up with a unique cocktail reception and a Gala dinner, where attendees can relax and mingle with a glass of Napa Valley wine in hand. To take advantage of the early bird registration discount, by today, Feb. 29. Watch this video recap of swampUP 2015: When: May 23-24, 2016 Where: , 875 Bordeaux Way, Napa, CA 94558 (early bird discount ends Feb. 29) (closes Feb. 29) swampUP: Company: Open Positions: JFrog Artifactory: JFrog Bintray: JFrog Mission Control: Customer testimonials: Twitter: LinkedIn: Try JFrog Artifactory for swampUP 2015 More than 1,500 paying customers, 50,000 installations and millions of developers globally rely on JFrogs world-class infrastructure for software management and distribution. Customers include some of the worlds top brands, such as Amazon, Google, LinkedIn, MasterCard, Netflix, Tesla, Barclays, Cisco, Oracle, Adobe and VMware. JFrog tools, comprising open-source, on-premise and SaaS cloud solutions, are revolutionizing the way companies and individuals develop, release and distribute software. JFrog Artifactory, the Universal Artifact Repository, and JFrog Bintray, the Universal Distribution Hub, are used by millions of developers and DevOps engineers around the world. The company is privately held and operated from California, France and Israel. More information can be found at . Embedded Video Available: Danielle Salvato-Earl Kulesa Faul for JFrog (650) 922-7287 International Relations February 29, 2016 Pierre Rousset The following article was written for Kojkkino , the theoretical magazine of the Greek organization DEA. Though quite long, it does not claim to cover all sides of the question. Indeed, its the kind of article that is never really finished and that has to be constantly reworked and supplemented. Its main objective is to stimulate collective thinking about the lessons of the successes and failures of the French New Anticapitalist Party (NPA) from its birth to the present day. Radical Left organizations in Europe have tended to focus their attention on the major political and electoral experiences that have stood out in the recent period beginning with Syriza in Greece, Podemos in the Spanish State and the Left Bloc in Portugal, and often also Die Linke in Germany, Rifondazione Comunista in Italy, the Red-Green Alliance in Denmark (RGA) and others. This is entirely justified. Still, other attempts at doing something new merit analysis, even where successes were fewer or shorter-lived. They provide food for thought about a broader range of national contexts. The key thing is that the attempt to do something new must be real and not just cosmetic. This was the case with the 2009 launch of the New Anticapitalist Party (NPA) in France. No doubt, the initiative was launched by the Revolutionary Communist League (LCR) on its own, but the LCR dissolved itself at a special congress. We knew, or at least a number of us did, that we were crossing the Rubicon. Whatever was going to happen next, it wouldnt be possible to return to the past. Subsequent developments proved that there would indeed be no turning back. The LCR itself had been a framework for regroupment. There had been mergers and not just splits! But it remained a dated organization, seen as a product of the radicalization of the 1960s and 1970s. Rebuilding From the Bottom Up In France, and unlike Portugal and Greece, all recent attempts to build a contemporary political expression of mass struggle have flopped. No workers party founded in whole or in part by a class-struggle trade-union movement, unlike South Korea and Brazil (the early PT). No left-wing split from the Communist Party or Social Democracy of a sort to enduringly affect patterns of radical political action. No off the beaten track wide-ranging social movement that sparks a new Indignados-Podemos-type dialectic. In the face of such gridlock, the LCR chose to go down a path never travelled that of rebuilding from the bottom up by putting out a call to interested individuals, activist teams and organizations for the building of a new anti-capitalist party. The call was so warmly received that Jean-Luc Melenchon[1] understood that the time had come to leave the Socialist Party (PS); he and his current created the Left Party (PG) immediately after. The two approaches were very different, with the NPA emerging out of a constituent process involving the huge number of local collectives created in response to the initial call. This has meant that we have been able to compare two different experiences since 2008-2009, one rather more innovative (the NPA), the other relatively conventional: the Left Front made up of the Communist Party (PCF), the PG and a number of smaller formations who have joined forces in the Ensemble! grouping. In November 2008, the South African journal Amandla! asked me for a piece on the reasons that led us to build an organization of a rather unusual type.[2] Seven years on, we can look at how things have actually played out. In the remarks that follow, I focus a great deal of attention on the question of relations between political generations. Therefore I feel it might be useful to spell out exactly where Im coming from. I joined the Fourth International while a student in 1965-1966 and participated in the founding of the Jeunesse Communiste Revolutionnaire in 1966 (and later of the LCR). From 1973 onward, I was active internationally for 20 years. After my return to France in 1993, I held a variety of positions but was never again a member of any national leadership body. This gives me a view from both the inside (with 50 years of continuity) and the outside (two decades during which I didnt directly experience the incremental and then quite radical changes that my organization underwent). I was very supportive of the NPA project and continue to think that we were right to embark upon this daring new adventure. Debates in and about the NPA are often focused on tactical choices (and largely electoral ones at that). I look at an example below, but these questions are always complex and by definition very concrete and difficult to understand for those not well acquainted with the national context. In any case, this isnt the key issue. All told, those to the left of the PS the Left Front, PCF, PG, Ensemble! and the NPA, not to speak of smaller organizations have deployed a wide variety of tactics and approaches. And yet all of these organizations are now in serious crisis. I. The need to do something new The reason the LCR truly wanted to do something new was that we were aware of how radically times had changed and of what this meant for party-building. That being said, we probably didnt grasp all the implications of this or the extent to which that while the underlying factors were universal in nature, they could sometimes assume particularly acute forms in France (and in Europe). A lengthy interlude. In the mid-1980s, my generation of activists within the Fourth International, of which the LCR was the French section, began to think through the strategic lessons of our experiences over the two decades that had passed since we first entered politics, often comparing notes with other far-Left currents.[3] Though fully aware that the LCR was not the nucleus of the future revolutionary party, we hoped to keep the lessons of the 1960s to the 1980s alive until a new crisis would make them somewhat more topical again a way of assessing the present without losing the memory of the past. A new crisis did indeed come, but the interlude had been too long. I didnt personally realize this until after the 2010 passing of Daniel Bensaid, whose stature and authority were immense. It became clear that he was the tree whose size hid the absence of a forest. The evolving continuity of Marxist thought and radical commitment was broken in France, perhaps more so than in other European countries. Coming just one year after its birth, Daniels death was a huge blow to the NPA. A breakdown of references. In private, we liked to say to one another that we were the last generation of October (1917 and 1949), and that it had been entirely natural for us to become part of the cycle of struggles inaugurated by the Russian and Chinese revolutions. Following the collapse of the USSR, failure of Stalinism and growing embourgeoisement of Social Democracy, young activists no longer related to history in the same way. The vast majority made a clean slate of history. To a certain degree, the precious experience of the World Social Forums and resistance to capitalist globalization was a new collective and international foundational historic experience for huge numbers of young people the world over. It helped us break out of our isolation (which had become unbearable by the early 1990s), to restore internationalism to its former glory, and to build a number of networks. But it ran out of steam before we could tackle the big strategic questions of the day together. The neoliberal order. We have yet to pay the full cost of our generations political defeat. Capitalist globalization and the neoliberal order have dismembered grassroots spaces, fragmented peoples consciousness (setting the individual against the collective), ravaged the social fabric, debilitated public policy, and brought identities into conflict with each other. The rules of the institutional game have changed. In the past, when the working-class movement brought three million people out into the streets, the French government would meet some of their demands. This is no longer the case and trade-union bureaucracies have not been able to deal with this newfound intransigence, just as they have been unwilling and unable to invest the required resources in organizing the precarious workforce. New social movements emerged in the mid-1990s, including organizations of the unemployed and the undocumented, housing rights, defense of those with no rights and no say, the catalysing role of womens struggles (especially in 1995),[4] to name a few. Radical Left political forces had to update their operating systems with the implications of all these ideological, social and institutional upheavals. No easy task! Among other things, it meant rolling out a new way of organizing around socio-economic questions, which is much harder than just changing political orientation. Social formation. In Europe, this necessary change in approach was bound to be particularly complex. Peoples movements in typical Third World countries have to deal with the same paradigm upheavals as ours, and sometimes with generational gaps much wider than our own (especially between a generation engaged in armed struggle and the one that comes after it). Nevertheless, there is greater continuity with respect to organizing work. For example, their quartiers populaires (slums, informal sector, urban poor) existed before and continue to exist today. And they already have roots in these areas. In a number of European countries, including France, the discontinuity is striking. No organization had the know-how and experience required to organize the long-term unemployed, the precariously employed, poor and working-class neighbourhoods and the new urban poor. This was something that had to be learned, and we had to want to learn. Building a party? In France as in other countries, there is tremendous hostility toward political parties, especially among radicalized young people. In such a context, our call to build a new party seemed to be a pretty stringent criterion for self-selection. But it became quickly apparent that the very notion of a party had become so vague for so many that it couldnt be much of a binding agent. At its founding, the NPAs doors were flung wide open. Anyone who wanted to join could do so, and I dont think we could have proceeded otherwise. We were surfing on the promising wave of optimism created by the extraordinarily successful 2002 and 2007 presidential campaigns of LCR candidate Olivier Besancenot. Some thought that we could occupy the entire political space to the left of the PS (which was preposterous) and that electoral success would continue well into the future. By the time the NPA founding convention was held, though, the wind had already turned. The party would have to be built against the current with unexpected competition on the left of the Left (Melenchons PG) and a raft of enemies who would stop at nothing to see us fail. We had to shift from building the party that was possible (consistent with its uneven levels of consciousness) to building the party that was necessary given that the future looked stormy, and actually turned out to be far more so than even the most clear-sighted among us feared at the time. This fundamentally decisive question was never seriously and collectively discussed. Only in France? Capitalist globalization, the end of superpower blocs, the shrinking of democratic spaces, geopolitical upheaval, the birth of new imperialisms and new forces of the far-Right, crises of identity and of citizenship, and on and on. In retrospect, the change in period appears to have been even more radical than we had initially imagined with the emergence of something new on the Left far more complex. Whats more, for us an important question formed the backdrop: France had seen huge waves of social struggle between 1995 and 2010, if not longer. For the most part, they ended in defeat. They were reflected (albeit belatedly) in elections, with reversals for the Right and election success for the LCRs Besancenot, followed by the Left Fronts Melenchon, and by Arlette Laguiller of Lutte Ouvriere (LO) before both of them, but lacking anything resembling the Indignados movement in its nature and impact. There are few European countries where struggles have taken place on such a scale and produced so little that is innovative and enduring. One possible explanation for this could be that the system of social protection, though continually attacked, remains in place and has made the rise of precariousness more gradual. It is still the case in France, for example, that unemployment rates decrease as levels of educational attainment rise. There is no mass phenomenon of unemployed post-secondary graduates as in Spain, let alone Morocco! Of course, things are changing. A major offensive against the Labour Code and regulations concerning public-sector workers is now underway in the wake of successive trade-union and social-movement defeats. One day, all hell will break loose. In Besancenots words, what is missing now in France, beyond the issue of what form this will take (strikes, demonstrations, occupations, etc.), is for the social question to burst out onto the forefront of the political scene. There are [] demonstrations and mass mobilizations, and occasionally they may even succeed. But they are stage-managed and a little too conventional [] Social explosion is sorely lacking these days [] but eventually it will come, one way or another. The challenge is to prepare for this, and to be open to such a future turn of events. The struggle that sparks such an explosion wont be decreed from on high, but all the ingredients required for such an explosion are already present. Which raises a problem: at the moment, everything we do is arguably more conventional and more routine than before. And the more things are held back, the more they are suppressed and repressed, the greater the explosion will be and all hell will break loose.[5] Generations. Accumulating forces, setting down roots, internalizing experience and building social ties all require time, which in turn requires continuity between activist generations. This continuity has been severed for the reasons mentioned above, but also due to older political reasons specific to France. While the British got Margaret Thatcher, we got Francois Mitterrand. So much the better for us, you might think. Think again! Having been elected on a PS-PCF common programme that in todays climate would be decried as irresponsibly ultra-left (not to mention a violation of EU treaties), the government made a sharp austerity turn in 1983. So the new neoliberal order was officially inaugurated under a government of the Left, led by the Socialists and with ministers from the Communist Party, still basking in the glory of their victory against a Right that had been in power for a quarter century. This made it easy to take the wind out of the sails of any resistance that appeared, and the 1980s saw a lull in recruitment to far-Left organizations. It wasnt merely a question of numbers. Compared to the past, it was a period of partial and measured commitment. Student unions ceased to be wellsprings of political radicalism. Even within our own ranks, rejection of the post-1968 model was intense. However, the model that replaced it would prove to be completely unsuited to dealing with the depth of the contemporary social crisis. The LCR and then the NPA were actually the organizations where generational renewal of leadership went the furthest, with the young mailman Besancenot being the obvious symbol of this. This was a real step forward. Still, the generational divide was much in evidence during the crisis that shook the NPA a year after its foundation. The solution was obviously not to let old-timers hold on to the reins of power. Indeed, in a recent retrospective piece, Roger Martelli, a former leader of the Refondateurs current of the PCF and current member of Ensemble!, looks at the experience of the Left Front and concludes that the entrenched role of old-timers was ultimately fatal to the project. We have to step back in order to continue. Only the younger generations will produce something new.[6] It would be interesting to compare the experiences of the NPA and the Left Front in this respect. Rebuilding? Ill end this first section by looking back at our sense of what was possible at the time we put out the call that led to the founding of the NPA. In the wake of the two remarkably successful Besancenot presidential campaigns (2002 and 2007), we knew that we had to make a move, in contrast with the way LO had handled Laguillers strong showing in 1995. It was our responsibility to broaden out, and broadening out meant genuinely taking stock of the change in period. The way we would put it was to speak of the New Period, New Programme and New Party without for all that wanting to jettison the essential lessons of previous decades. But we were definitely thinking in terms of a new period and not the end of an era. We optimistically connected the dots between the big strikes of 1995, the surge of the global justice movement, the militant arrival of new generations capable of withstanding harsh repression (such as at the 2001 anti-G8 protests in Genoa), and the victory of the No side in the 2005 referendum on the first draft EU constitution. We were in the midst of a rising wave of resistance struggles, with a number of features that were truly remarkable. In reality, though, the class relationship of forces was rapidly deteriorating. On top of this, our electoral success had catapulted us into big league politics, but given the reality of our organization and its social base, we were clearly punching above our weight. We had to take full advantage of the situation, but it couldnt last. We felt the financial crisis of 2007-2008 would be a shot in the arm for anti-capitalism. In fact, it was a first missed opportunity; the call to topple the dictatorship of finance by making the banking system a public service never went anywhere. That should have been a warning signal. We had overestimated the momentum in favour of rebuilding something to the left of the Left. And we hadnt grasped the difficulties we would confront as we tried to rebuild in a period of retreat. Optimism easily leads to triumphalism and to paying insufficient attention to questions of unity, political substance, organization and leadership. II. Success, stagnation, decline The initial founding process was a genuine success, confirming that the project corresponded to real expectation and hope. The NPA reached a paid-up membership of 9000 (not all of whom were necessarily active). Proceedings at the founding congress were remarkably serious. Basic political principles and provisional statutes were adopted. Former LCR members were barred from making up more than half of any leadership body on any level. In relation to the LCR, the numerical, geographical and social reach of the party was significantly greater. Left-labour leadership teams and public figures with whom we had traditionally worked declined to join the adventure, but others whom we often didnt know as well did. The net result was a very diverse mix. Each collective was marked by the local activist landscape and the specific history that lay behind it. Groups and individuals (and especially the public figures) brought their idiosyncrasies, expectations, and in some cases, ambitions. They often expected that the NPA would provide national scope to their specific areas and methods of work. Some were banking on very strong and sustained election results, with Besancenot and the LCRs strongest showings taken (rather unrealistically) as a minimum benchmark to be surpassed. Many had never had any previous experience in a political party. On top of this, the dissolution of the LCR enabled its internal factions and currents to spread their wings. This initial heterogeneity was unavoidable given the nature of the NPAs constituent process. With no negative connotation intended, I like to use the image of a sack containing potatoes (the groups) and lentils (the individuals). The sack was the right size, but each time there was a little chaos, potatoes and lentils risked falling out. Facing the threat of a progressive loss of substance, the party had to increase its coherence, collectivization, unity and level of commitment. The NPA leadership relied upon the sacrosanct momentum I mentioned earlier to fulfill this task, leading to organizational spontaneism. Elections. Shortly after it was founded, the NPA had to face its first electoral test in the June 2009 European Parliament elections. The tactical and political coordinates of this contest were complicated. Both the Left Party and the NPA had just been launched and were in a phase of more or less triumphalist self-affirmation. And the question of alliances and inter-party relations was, and still is, not posed in the same way in the EU parliament as it is in the normal national one. As such, in 1999-2005 the LCR had been able to join the European United Left-Nordic Green Left (GUE/NGL) group in the EU parliament, which included LO and the PCF (though we were opposed to the PCF in France on the question of its participation in PS-led governments). At the time, the President of the GUE/NGL group was Francis Wurtz from the PCF, and the LCR was able to freely carry out its activities, often receiving the groups support. I was employed by the group at the time and worked closely with Wurtz, especially around the Social Forums. The fact of the matter is that the European Parliament isnt a real parliament sitting face-to-face with a real government. Its entire modus operandi is rather peculiar and it actually took us some time to get our heads around it. But who in France knows this? For the average person, European elections are just part of the French electoral cycle leading up to presidential and legislative elections. It was legitimate to imagine a more united approach in line with these specific features of the European institutions, but any such tie-up would have been seen as a model to emulate in subsequent specifically French elections. As a pre-condition for unity, the NPA therefore wanted agreement on maintaining complete independence from the PS and any PS-led social liberal government, including (and especially) in upcoming elections. It was ferociously denounced for its sectarianism and lost this political battle. Many say that the NPA was wrong to take such a stand. And yet today everyone knows that the Left Front has tied itself up in knots precisely around (among others) this question of relations with the PS. We very nearly[7] elected one or two Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) in the 2009 EU elections, and this would have made a big difference in terms of credibility. Unfortunately, in such matters, even when youre off by just a little, youre still off. Close, but no cigar! The appeal of the NPA among left-wing activist sectors and public figures had suffered a serious blow. The creation of the NPA gave us a vastly increased number of entry points into working-class neighbourhoods, providing an opportunity to begin to remedy one of our most important weaknesses. A missed opportunity. The NPA leadership (and that of the Left Front and, earlier, the LCR) was fixated on elections and political alliances to the left of the Left. In my view, this was an overly party-political and electoralist (or even short-sighted) ordering of priorities. The creation of the NPA gave us a vastly increased number of entry points into working-class neighbourhoods, providing an opportunity to begin to remedy one of our most important weaknesses. We could have brought together all these entry points: centres for the unemployed and precariously employed; shelters for battered women; teams of doctors and teachers working in rough areas; youth leaders from cultural centres and organizations involved in legal protection for youth and minors; social workers; anti-racist groups; movements of the undocumented and homeless and their supporters; and so forth. The point would be to exchange experiences, look at the demands of people living in these neighborhoods,[8] find ways to help one another overcome difficulties specific to each area of activity, and determine which activist and community groups to strike alliances with (local organizations were hoping that the NPA would provide its support to help them repoliticize from within those areas that had become derelict as a consequence of neglect and political patronage,[9] and so on. This work wasnt done. The NPA established a commission on workplace intervention (which is now in crisis) even though a large segment of the wage-earning population (unemployed, precariously employed) can no longer be organized solely in this way. As for the quartiers populaires (poor and working-class neighbourhoods) commission, it sees its activity as being theme-based (and primarily focused on anti-racism). This means that no mechanism exists to think and act around building common and local organizations for the working-class population in these areas focused on the (largely socio-economic) demands raised by the residents themselves in spite of the fact that an outsider relationship to these communities (which is not new) is one of the radical Lefts main weaknesses. Avignon. We paid a heavy price for this missed opportunity when the Avignon crisis erupted. An organization, AJC REV, led by Abdel Zahiri, had joined the NPA in Avignon. In the run-up to the 2010 regional elections, AJC REV got one of its members, Ilham Moussaid, a Muslim woman wearing a headscarf, on to the NPA ticket for the Vaucluse district. With the exception of a handful of very localized examples, such a candidacy was a first in France not because women of immigrant origin are absent from French elections and politics, but because they dont wear the headscarf. This has as much to do with the specific history of immigration in France as with the extent of the countrys secularization. For example, no major party explicitly refers to religion, in spite of the very real influence of a deeply reactionary Catholic right-wing. It was to be expected that such a candidacy would attract national attention. I was in Pakistan at the time and saw the story in a local newspaper. My Pakistani comrades asked me if this was a good thing, and I answered that the sky was going to come crashing down on our heads. Moussaid instantly became the most famous person in the NPA after Besancenot. Unfortunately, the organization was totally unprepared for this turn of events, with members even learning of the candidacy through the media. With Sarkozy looking to ethnicize the elections, we had wanted to counter this by focusing on socio-economic questions. So much for that! We were crucified by our many enemies who hurled groundless accusations at us. But we also faced a number of legitimate questions including about the meaning of the headscarf for womens emancipation for which we didnt have answers that had been collectively thought through and debated. Besancenot defended Moussaids candidacy tooth and nail. In a recent interview, he recalled this episode and noted that a part of the Muslim community resented us a little vis-a-vis Ilham. We were suspected, even in these circles, of trying to surf on the controversy [] The question they asked us was whether there were any concrete actions we could carry out together they never demanded that we pass some kind of religious test first [] One track for dealing with this question may lie in the formation of new types of alliances not with those that are considered representatives of a predetermined cultural and religious community, but with the local residents and activists themselves in these poor and working-class neighbourhoods.[10] One of the problems was that the AJC REVs project was precisely to get a foothold in these neighbourhoods from a (Muslim) religious angle.[11] Moussaids name hadnt been put forward because she had led a social struggle and just happened to wear the headscarf, but because the headscarf itself embodied the AJC REVs political project. Once the said project came to an end in Avignon, Moussaid left the NPA and took off her headscarf. Anti-oppression politics. Instead of taking the reality of poor and working-class neighbourhoods as a starting point, the stormy debate in the NPA prompted by the Avignon episode was highly ideological (and emotional). Every possible position was aired from Get religion out of my sight neither church towers nor minarets! to arguing that the burqa (or full-face veil) is a symbol of the fight for womens emancipation. Whatever the position put forward, among the thousands (or more) of e-mails and dozens of position papers, only a handful provided a well-constructed argument around crucial questions: how to connect and combine the fight against different forms of oppression (racist, sexist, socio-economic, and so on) and what approach to take to laicite (secularism / separation of religion and state) in France today.[12] The end result was an utterly chaotic national conference a traumatic experience for the young party. One sidebar to the debate concerned its international ramifications. Are the Taliban anti-imperialists?[13] One can hope that subsequent events have clarified everyones views on this matter. On everything else, the fault lines of the debate have not been erased and criss-cross practically all the NPAs existing currents. Whatever the declarations of intent, people are often guided by a hierarchical approach to forms of oppression (ranking anti-racism over anti-sexism or vice-versa, for example), and this makes defending all the oppressed that much more difficult. Personalization. The presidential system in France takes the personalization of electoral politics to outrageous extremes. There isnt even a vice-president. The mystical belief in France is that its about the direct relationship that exists between a man (so far it hasnt ever been a woman) and the people. Besancenots personality and political talent gave the LCR, and then the NPA, an unusually broad political reach. He nonetheless refused to become a lifelong candidate (which is what had happened to the LOs Laguiller) or to see the future of the French people and nation as being synonymous with his own (which is Melenchons view of himself). And Besancenot was clearly right regarding the core of the matter. In May 2011, he announced that he would not run again for the presidency in 2012. Given the way things were going in the organization, his decision provoked a leadership crisis in the NPA and plunged the broader organization into a crisis that had only been latent up to that point. With election prospects as their weathervane, a significant number of former LCR cadres concluded that the future lay with Melenchon and inside the Left Front. Split. The NPA took a huge blow. In total, it lost two thirds of its paper membership as a result of a constant trickle of earlier departures and the turmoil that followed Besancenots decision not to run. Most former members returned to activist and trade-union work while others left politics altogether. A new organization had been born, but not quite the one we had wanted. The 2011-2012 crisis split the central core of the former LCR leadership into two, and similarly affected top-notch organizing teams throughout the organization. Expecting nothing more from the NPA, a minority wing of the organization joined the Left Front initially as the Anti-Capitalist Left (GA) and then as co-founders of the Ensemble! current. Alas, the Left Front project itself was also plunged into a deep crisis. As for the Ensemble! current, it is bedevilled by contradictions including around the issues of Islamism and electoralism that are probably even more explosive than the NPAs. In fact, the core leadership of the former GA has abandoned the perspective of building an independent radical organization which was very much part of the LCRs identity, and which remains something about which the NPA feels strongly. That being said, there are features common to their crisis and ours in particular the chasm between leadership and rank-and-file activists. Leaderships have their own histories, so much so that local party activists increasingly have a life unto their own, one that is independent of national leadership bodies. This isnt all very political if you reduce politics solely to questions of formal political orientation. It becomes very political, however, when you consider that questions of organization and commitment are eminently political, too. III. Commitment and functioning The electoral law of gravity. Given its origins and aims, its not surprising that the history of the Left Front has revolved around elections. Its stranger that this should also be the case for the leadership of the NPA. The paradox is that postal worker Olivier Besancenot who was our best candidate ever (a thing of wonder, really) connects to politics primarily through working-class struggle and social movements and worries about the powerful attractive force of electoralism: The electoral cycle is omnipresent in France and it is suffocating. Its not simply that it takes over political life during the few months, or even the whole year, before an election its every single day. The electoral question casts a heavy pall over the political situation in France each and every day, especially with the constant stream of polling data. So if youre thinking in terms of an emancipatory project, the problem becomes one of breaking out of that cycle, of trying to create another space, another time-frame, another calendar. This doesnt necessarily mean that you boycott, but if you manage to create a mass movement with other forces, which can escape that electoral pressure, which approaches the whole matter from another angle, then you can think about standing in the name of a more general project.[14] The currents, factions and blocs of the NPA delimit themselves primarily in relation to electoral issues and the electoral landscape: what profile to stand on, which candidates to run, what alliances to negotiate, and whom to call for a vote for when the NPA isnt on the ballot, to name a few. To be sure, these positions reflect more open or more closed approaches on the ground, as well as different visions of the role our organization can play in the present context. Simply put, should we prioritize participation in the building of broad initiatives (on climate change, and against the state of emergency and revocation of citizenship, for example) or focus on demarcating ourselves and asserting our anti-capitalist program at every opportunity? Clearly, there are matters of substance involved in these quarrels. The problem is that they are posed in relation to electoral contests despite the fact that we are increasingly marginalized on that terrain due to the increasingly harsh requirements for those wanting to run in elections, a lack of financial means, and the ability of the far-Right Front National to attract support from those hostile to political elites. Pervasive factionalism. We wanted the NPA to be a melting pot, merging the historical contributions of a variety of revolutionary traditions (critical Marxism, left-libertarianism, and others). The basic principles adopted at the founding congress were only meant as a starting point and various undefined points and omissions (for example, the NPA doesnt describe itself as a Marxist organization) were to be dealt with by synthesizing different viewpoints at a later date. But the programme commission never got off the ground. To top it off, the party incorporated organizations which had no intention of participating in a common project, seeking only to build themselves by taking advantage of the larger framework that the NPA provided. One thing leading to another, factionalism ended up undermining and crippling the leadership. The method of leadership selection is the problem here. In the NPA, the executive committee is established proportionally to the share of votes each tendency receives at convention. These tendencies perpetuate themselves, becoming factions (in those cases when they werent already from the start). Someone can end up in the national leadership for the sole feat of having been the ideological leading light of their current which might be sufficient for penning press releases, but not for organizing and building the organization. This internal logic was already at play in the final days of the LCR and developed still further in the NPA. Factions are conservative. To survive they have to endlessly force the same debates around which they were established in the first place. If discussion takes off from a different angle which is indispensable! factions fragment in every direction. So they shut down an organizations political and democratic breathing space. The first consequence of which is paralysis. A section of the NPA leadership has now theorized this state of affairs: they argue that our organization is in reality (or should become) a front of revolutionary groupings the polar opposite of a melting pot. In response, some in the organization reject outright the right to form tendencies, even temporary ones, equating all of them with destructive factions. The melting-pot question also arose in the Left Front: Could individuals join the Left Front (as opposed to one of its member organizations) and could there be collective structures that gave them their rightful place? The answer on both counts was no. The Left Front remained a prisoner of its dependence upon the electoral jockeying of its founding parties, the CGT trade-union bureaucracy and the overbearing personality of Jean-Luc Melenchon. Revolutionary? Independence from the PS and a determination to build a Left opposition to the Hollande government are important markers in the French context. They are essential to any political stance worth its salt. In a different way, promoting an anti-capitalist alternative over a solely anti-neoliberal one is also key; it has concrete implications in the here and now. Its not just a matter of having the correct programme but rather of ensuring that the party we seek to build measures up to the deep and widespread hostility toward the system that has become an enduring feature of the social and political landscape. On the other hand, the formal distinction that some make between anti-capitalist and revolutionary is not politically relevant. Nor is endlessly repeating revolutionary mantras, meanwhile forgetting that the art of persuasion is just that an art. More importantly, fine words wont fool anyone. Its just not possible to build revolutionary organizations in the true sense of the term in France (or Europe?) today. A party is not defined solely by its programme, however important the programme may be, but by its actual practise (which can be very far removed from its proclaimed intentions). Even defined very modestly, there can be no embryonically revolutionary practise in the absence of a sufficiently propitious social and political context. When such a context exists, the daily life of a member of a radical organization differs substantially from that of a member of a reformist party. This was true in the 1960s and 1970s, but stopped being so afterwards. No doubt, it will become true again one day. Commitment. Seen from the here and now, the building of a revolutionary organization is something that lies on the horizon. But this doesnt mean that we can continue as if it were business as usual. With the crisis, the rise of precariousness and the security state, the 1980s and 1990s French model of a la carte party activism is null and void. Repression is beating down on social and trade-union movements, general insecurity is engulfing growing sectors of the population, humanitarian disasters are increasing the world over, and the global environmental crisis is becoming a reality. At such a time, continuing on with the humdrum daily routine is a sure fire recipe for dooming ourselves to the margins and ultimately for throwing in the towel. At the very outset of the NPA, the problem came up in relation to a very specific question. Not a single member of the core leadership of the former LCR belonging to the generation that had come to embody its project was willing to become a full-timer in the new organization. The point here is not to judge individuals after all, its easier to make certain choices at the age of 20 than it is at 40 but to raise a question that is collective in nature. We cant always look to the dynamic of the broader situation. Without it, nothing significant is possible; but without deliberate organizational politics, the dynamic wont magically solve all our problems. It was impossible to steer the building of the NPA without a small team making a 200 per cent commitment to the project, enabling the leadership team to function effectively. Of course, becoming a full-time staffer, even for a limited period of time, is not without personal consequences for the future. However, we are living in times when being radical demands activist commitments with lasting implications. In fact, a segment of youth is making such commitments ungrudgingly. For example, the Zadists who set up camp wherever there are zones to defend against useless prestige projects. Or those who have taken to farming in Notre-Dame-des-Landes against the building of a new airport as many did in the 1970s on the Larzac plateau in southwestern France against the extension of a military base. NPA local committees are involved in these struggles, but the Zadists are extremely leery of political parties. Reassessment. The crisis of the NPA has revealed the scale of the crisis that was brewing in an LCR that had reached the end of its historical tether. It would have broken up in any case, even if we hadnt attempted to produce something new a highly instructive attempt, though one that has come to a significant initial failure. The 2011 split was a turning point. Division won out over enlargement, giving an even wider berth to sectarian groupings within the organization. Nothing has been the same since. Todays NPA 2.0 is beset by conflict and contradiction. To be sure, there is still an objective space that it can occupy in Frances political landscape and no other organization is competing with it. It currently only does so partially, lacking a capacity for initiative from its national leadership. While divisions are deep, its active membership remains its most precious asset and this mustnt be squandered, especially since it will be revitalized when a context more favourable to struggle opens up. With this in mind, we should foster renewed thinking around big questions like building the organizations social base, internal functioning and commitment, and the shoring up of activist networks in a defensive period, without depending too much on elections. Translation from French by Nathan Rao. What you need to know about Powerball and the $580 million jackpot News Welcome to SwanseaOnline - your home for the best news, sports and what's on coverage of the city. Never miss a Swansea story with our daily newsletter Sign up to comment on our stories here Follow us on Facebook and Twitter | Swansea City news | Ospreys news | InYourArea Newly discovered planet GJ 1132b, a super-Venus very close to its parent star, could be a candidate to look for volcanic eruptions. Geologic activity on a planet is believed to be very important for life, but it can be hard to spot its signs from far away especially on smaller, rocky planets akin to Earth. What if there was a large volcanic eruption on such an Earth-like planet could we spot that? A group of graduate students at the University of Washington's astrobiology program considered this question after it arose during a class discussion about the search for life outside our solar system. "All life needs energy," said doctoral student Joshua Krissansen-Totton. "At first we thought about plate tectonics. It's not necessary for life, but looking into it, we thought it might be a good indicator of places that are habitable. But it's very hard to spot that, so we looked more closely at volcanism." [Related: The Strangest Alien Planets] The resulting article, "Transient Sulfate Aerosols as a Signature of Exoplanet Volcanism," was published in the journal Astrobiology in June. The work was funded by the NASA Astrobiology Institute's Virtual Planetary Laboratory. Subtracting light A common way of spotting Earth-sized planets is through the transit method. A telescope, such as NASA's Kepler space telescope, monitors a star for a long time looking for a planet to pass in front of it. Spotting small planets is easiest when they orbit dwarf stars because of the smaller ratio between the star's radius and the planet's radius. A larger star has enough light to easily obscure the tiny transit. However, spotting these small planets in this way says nothing necessarily about their atmospheres. The scenario is arguably easier with very large planets. A spectrometer picks up the spectrum of light coming from the direction of a star and astronomers can look for a change in light signature when a planet passes in front to deduce the chemical composition of the planet's atmosphere. The first such measurements were done in 2002using gas giant HD 209458 (Charbonneau et al., 2002). Our current technology doesn't allow us to do this with an Earth-sized planet at exoplanet distances, but Krissansen-Totton and his collaborators came up with another solution. When a volcano erupts, it tends to puff out the atmosphere as sulfur leaves the volcano and creates sulfate aerosols in the upper atmosphere through interactions with other molecules. Perhaps it's possible to see an atmosphere expanding and then contracting again on a small planet, even from a fairly large distance. Astronauts on the International Space Station captured footage of the 2009 Sarychev eruption. (Image credit: NASA) Pinatubo and Sarychev In this paper, the researchers considered two scenarios. The first was looking at a volcanic eruption about the size of the 1991 Pinatubo eruption. This particular eruption was the second-largest in the 20th Century, following a 1912 eruption in Alaska. They also considered a more common volcanic scenario, such as the relatively small 2009 Sarychev eruption in Russia that caused some disruptions to flights due to an ash cloud. The researchers tried simulating the capabilities of two forthcoming observatories: NASA's James Webb Space Telescope (to launch in 2018) and the ground-based European Extremely Large Telescope (E-ELT) in Chile, scheduled to light up in 2024. When the researchers created a model using these scenarios, they discovered that a Sarychev eruption would be very hard to spot on an Earth-sized planet orbiting a Sun-like star about 10 parsecs (32 light-years) away. The larger Pinatubo eruption, however, did create a rapid increase and gradual decrease in the planet's radius that could more easily be spotted with the telescopes. How to see a planet using the transit method. (Image credit: NASA) Recent planetary find This is all the more exciting, Krissansen-Totton added, with the recent discovery of GJ 1132b (opens in new tab). This planet is slightly larger than Earth and hovers so close as to orbit its parent star in a mere 38 hours, making it a real scorcher in terms of temperature. The planet also happens to be relatively near to Earth just 12 parsecs (39 light-years) away. Krissansen-Totton said there would be limitations in understanding such a planet's atmospheric composition. "There's a good chance it'll have a thick Venus-like atmosphere," he said. "On Venus, nothing is visible below 90 kilometers because of its cloud layers; explosive eruptions on a Venus-like exoplanet would be obscured by cloud." Volcanoes are a fairly common feature in the Solar System. In icy form, we have seen eruptions on Saturn's moon Enceladus. There also is evidence of volcanic eruptions (whether in the past or present) in locations such as Venus and even Pluto, the latter of which was seen close-up for the first time this year by NASA's New Horizons spacecraft. "Many people think hydrothermal settings are crucial in the origin of life," Krissansen-Totton said. "So we're more interested in seeing planets with volcanic activity." This story was provided by Astrobiology Magazine, a web-based publication sponsored by the NASA astrobiology program. Follow Space.com @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Scott Kelly, shown here in the cupola of the International Space Station, is about to complete his yearlong mission in space. NASA astronaut Scott Kelly is scheduled to return to Earth tomorrow (March 1) after spending 340 days aboard the International Space Station. He is the first American to live in space for such a long period of time. Here are seven milestones of Scott Kelly's monumental year in space. Blast off! The Soyuz TMA-16M spacecraft launched on March 27, 2015, in Baikonur, Kazakhstan, carrying Scott Kelly, Mikhail Kornienko and Gennady Padalka. (Image credit: NASA TV) When Scott Kelly lifted off aboard a Russian Soyuz space capsule on March 27, 2015, bound for the International Space Station, he began a journey to do something that no American had done before: spend nearly a year in orbit. Along with Russian crewmate Mikhail "Misha" Kornienko, who also stayed on board for just shy of a year, Kelly's role is to teach doctors back on Earth how the human body changes over long periods spent in weightlessness. Most data on the effects of spaceflight on humans come from six-month missions; one-year missions have not taken place in space since cosmonauts lived on the Mir space station in the 1990s. "Misha and I are only one data point in this goal to have people live and work in space for longer periods, with the hopes of someday going perhaps to Mars," Kelly said during a preflight news conference in Russia. "But you've got to start somewhere, and I think this is a great start. And I'm proud to be a part of it." Veggies in space NASA astronauts Scott Kelly (right) and Kjell Lindgren (center) with Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui snack on freshly harvested, space-grown red romaine lettuce as part of the Veggie experiment on the International Space Station. (Image credit: NASA TV via collectSPACE.com) In August 2015, Kelly was on hand when, for the first time, astronauts actually ate a vegetable lettuce grown in space. Kelly, NASA astronaut Kjell Lindgren and Japanese astronaut Kimiya Yui were shown on video munching the "Outredgeous" red romaine lettuce. "Tastes good," Kelly remarked. The next iteration of Veggie, using zinnias, became threatened by moldclose to the Christmas holidays. Kelly agreed to take over management of the experiment and ended up saving most of the plants, allowing flowers to bloom by January. "Yes, there are other life forms in space!" Kelly tweeted Jan. 16. Spacewalks The ISS is currently undergoing renovations to prepare the station to receive commercial spacecraft designed to carry humans. The renovations include changing the docking ports to accommodate SpaceX's Dragon and Boeing's CST-100. Kelly's role in spacewalking, however, was to make sure the station is in tip-top shape. Kelly tackled three spacewalks, which occurred in October, November and December. The first spacewalk (with Kjell Lindgren) focused on long-term maintenance of the station, while the second saw Kelly and Lindgren fixing up the station's plumbing. In December, Kelly and NASA astronaut Tim Kopra manually freed the Mobile Transporter a railcar that moves the station's robotic arm after a stuck brake handle stopped the transporter from moving. Kelly appeared relaxed and occasionally joked during the procedures. "Somebody did a really good job on this wire tie here like for all eternity," he quipped during his November spacewalkwhile struggling to undo a wire tire. Progress 59 re-supply failure The Progress 59 freighter burned up in Earth's atmosphere on May 7, 2015, nine days after suffering a serious malfunction shortly after launch. (Image credit: NASA) To stay provisioned in space, the ISS needs regular re-supplies from cargo spacecraft. Occasional failures do happen, however, such as what occurred with the Progress 59 craft that lifted off on April 28, 2015. Russian controllers were unable to gain control of the craft, which was spinning far out of reach of its destination. It fell back to Earth in May, 2015, due to a failure in the third stage of its rocket. Controllers were somewhat unsure of where it would land, but the incident was taken as a lesson learned. Future spacecraft may be equipped with retro-reflectors to make it easier to track them and predict where they will re-enter the atmosphere, according to officials from the European Space Agency. SpaceX rocket explosion SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket and Dragon cargo spacecraft exploded shortly after liftoff on June 28, 2015. The Dragon craft was carrying supplies to the International Space Station. (Image credit: NASA) On June 28, 2015, a SpaceX rocket carrying supplies to the International Space Station exploded only a couple of minutes after launch. The 4,000 lbs. (1,814 kilograms) of lost cargo included food, supplies and science experiments for the station, such as a high-resolution camera for meteor observations. The cause of the explosion was later traced to a faulty strut. The failure came after a catastrophic explosion of an Orbital Antares rocket in October 2014 (with the Cygnus cargo craft on top) and the Progress failure of April. NASA, however, said the station had enough slack in its supplies to stay provisioned for a while. "We're good to the October time frame if no other vehicles show up," NASA ISS program manager Mike Suffredini said during a pre-launch press conference on June 26, 2015. Luckily for the astronauts, cargo flights made it successfully to the station before then, and no other failures have occurred since that time. A birthday in orbit Kelly celebrated an extra-special birthday in space on Feb. 21. The milestone is notable not only because he was in space at the time, but also because he shares the birthday with his twin brother, Mark. Mark and Scott have both been in space before, and NASA saw a unique opportunity to see how the genes of a person change after extended stays in space. For the so-called "Twins Study," while Scott is performing experiments on himself up above, Mark remains on the ground doing identical procedures. "Happy birthday to Scott Kelly, who is working 250 [miles/402 kilometers] above Earth, and Mark Kelly, who is helping with the Twins Study from our home planet," NASA wrote on Tumblr on the twins' birthday. Back on Earth After 340 days in space, the most time spent in orbit by an American, Scott Kelly is scheduled to return to Earth on March 1, 2016. (Image credit: NASA/Bill Ingalls) After a year doing science and spacewalks as well as tending flowers and admiring the view Kelly will arrive back on Earth on March 1. The extreme amount of time he spent in isolation had some people wondering if he would mind being there for so long, but Kelly emphasized repeatedly that it was a matter of focusing on one day at a time. "On a six-month flight, your mindset is you're going to go up there, and you're going to be up there for a period of time, and you're going to come home," Kelly said in January 2015. "When it's a whole year, I don't have that same perspective. It's almost like I feel like I'm just moving there and I'm not coming back. Or it's going to be so long that when I come back, it's almost like I never lived here maybe." Follow Elizabeth Howell @howellspace. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com. NASA astronauts Scott Kelly and Tim Kopra are slated to vote March 1, but only Kopra will have a say in Texas' primary elections; Kelly is returning to Earth that day. "Super Tuesday," when several U.S. states hold their primary presidential elections, won't be so super for astronaut Scott Kelly. Or, rather, it will be "super" for a different reason; instead of casting a vote, he'll be busy making his way back down to Earth after a yearlong stay on the International Space Station. Both of the U.S. astronauts on board the station are slated to vote tomorrow (March 1) when their home base of Houston, Texas, casts its votes, but NASA representatives said Kelly will not be able to participate. "Scott confirmed he will not be voting as he will be in the process of landing," NASA spokesman Dan Huot told Space.com. Kelly's crewmate, Tim Kopra, will be able to vote thanks to a 1997 Texas bill setting out a technical process for spacebound voters. "They send it back to Mission Control," NASA spokesman Jay Bolden of Johnson Space Center told Space.com in 2012 during the last presidential election cycle. "It's a secure ballot that is then sent directly to the voting authorities." Kopra will receive an email with specific credentials, which he will use to access the ballot. When they get home, Kelly and Kornienko will go through extensive testing to see how a year in space affects the human body. Kelly will also be compared with his twin brother, Mark Kelly, a retired astronaut, in a comprehensive genetic study. Kopra, British astronaut Tim Peake and Russian cosmonaut Yuri Malenchenko will remain on board the space station. They will be joined by U.S. astronaut Jeff Williams and Russian cosmonauts Alexey Ovchinin and Oleg Skripochka on March 18. Email Sarah Lewin at slewin@space.com or follow her @SarahExplains. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook and Google+. Original article on Space.com. Air Force Capt. Joe Kittinger jumps from the Excelsior III balloon gondola in a 1960 test, free-falling toward Earth for more than 4 minutes. Ask most Americans about the early space program, and the first names mentioned will probably be Alan Shepard and John Glenn, the first NASA astronauts to reach space and orbit Earth, respectively. But a lot of work led up to these epic 1961 and 1962 flights, as the new PBS documentary "Space Men" makes clear. And this work was done not just by test pilots in jets, but by brave balloonists, the film reveals. You can see an exclusive clip from "Space Men" here. "Space Men," which premieres on PBS Tuesday (March 1), covers the research of an Army doctor named John Paul Stapp. Stapp was interested in how the human body would cope with spaceflight. He started his work in the 1940s, years before the Soviet Union's 1957 launch of Sputnik, the world's first artificial satellite. [Giant Leaps: Top Milestones of Human Spaceflight] "It was just this kind of forgotten history, and then I was drawn into that," Amanda Pollak, the documentary's writer and director, told Space.com. "In the late 1940s and '50s, he [Stapp] saw the progress around him and what was happening with rocket technology. As a med doctor, he saw people flying faster and higher, and he wanted to protect the human body in that situation." Stapp secured funding for experiments on the human body and, ultimately, a set of six balloon flights to the stratosphere, which were conducted as part of projects known as Manhigh and Excelsior. Balloons can't make it to orbit, but they can get above 99 percent of Earth's atmosphere, to altitudes of about 100,000 feet (30,000 meters). (Jets at that time were unable to approach such altitudes.) "The purpose of Manhigh was to come up with the life-support systems," said retired U.S. Air Force Col. Joseph Kittinger, who flew one flight in 1959 during Manhigh and three times during Excelsior, in 1959 and 1960. Kittinger jumped from his gondola during his three Excelsior missions, skydiving back to Earth. The goal of these jumps was to find out how an astronaut might cope with a high-altitude bailout. On Kittinger's third jump, in August 1960, he set a skydiving altitude record 102,800 feet (31,333 m) that remained in place until 2012, when it was broken by Austrian daredevil Felix Baumgartner. (Former Google executive Alan Eustace broke Baumgartner's record in October 2014, jumping from a height of 135,908 feet, or 41,425 m.) Kittinger said the challenge was to come up with a bailing-out system simple enough for anyone to use. "Pilots aren't skydivers," he said. Air Force Capt. Joe Kittinger jumps from the Excelsior III balloon gondola in a 1960 test, free-falling toward Earth for more than 4 minutes. (Image credit: U.S. Air Force) For example, one problem is rotation: When jumping out of a plane, a skydiver will start to rotate. At low altitudes, this isn't a problem, because air resistance keeps the spin rate down. But at the altitudes Kittinger jumped from, there is so little air that the rotation keeps getting faster as he discovered on his second jump, in November 1959, when a parachute malfunction resulted in a spin of 120 rotations per minute that knocked him unconscious. Kittinger's emergency chute opened up at about 10,000 feet (3,000 m), saving his life. The result of Kittinger's jumps, though, was the drogue parachute design that spacecraft still use today a small parachute is released at high altitude, when the spacecraft has built up enough speed for the thin air to catch it. That smaller parachute guides the larger one, which is opened later, and prevents tangling. Stapp's project also gave engineers the equipment that they almost take for granted in astronaut training today, such as the centrifuge that subjects test pilots and astronauts to high gravity loads. Beyond testing the limits of human bodies, there were scientific experiments to be done. In the 1950s, not much was known about the region beyond the stratosphere. It wasn't clear, for example, how dangerous superenergetic cosmic rays might be to human health. Despite their importance to the later space program, the balloon projects got little funding. Stapp had to be creative in finding ways to make a few dollars go further. The balloon projects were disbanded shortly after NASA was established in 1958, though the space agency did use the data Stapp and his colleagues had gathered on the stratosphere and the effects of stratospheric flight to design its own astronaut training. And Stapp himself helped NASA with its astronaut selection. Pollak said politics likely played a role in the balloon projects' demise. The Dwight Eisenhower administration wanted NASA to be an entirely civilian program, so the associations with the U.S. Air Force were downplayed. It was also difficult to get the public excited about balloons when rockets were on offer. Meanwhile, Kittinger, who still flies planes and performed the first balloon trans-Atlantic crossing in 1983, says he'd do his jumps all over again. "I'd need a bigger pressure suit," he said. "Space Men" premieres March 1 on PBS at 9 p.m. ET (check local listings). To learn more about the documentary, visit: http://www.pbs.org/wgbh/americanexperience/films/spacemen/. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook or Google+. Originally published on Space.com. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate B anquettes are back. The intimate, bench-style seating units that have always been so popular in restaurants are trendy again in home kitchen design. As the idea of formal dining rooms has declined, making family and friends feel comfortable in the kitchen is a key element in design. People still like islands, but there is something so cozy about banquettes. ... They add a softness to a kitchen, says New Canaan designer Gianna Santoro, adding that they can be space savers, too. So many of them now have storage in drawers underneath, which is very convenient. Kitchens are getting bigger and bigger and not everyone wants to be so elevated, Carisha Swanson, a markets editor for Hearst Magazines in Manhattan, says of islands being replaced by or complimented with banquettes. When you go to a party, the kitchen is always the place where everyone ends up, unless you live in one of those tiny New York apartments, the Bridgeport resident adds of a renewed focus on seating and comfort in kitchens. Banquettes can also be very low maintenance, in terms of cleaning, when upholstered with the vastly improved outdoor furniture fabrics that are on the market. Gone are the days when everyone could see and feel the difference between indoor and outdoor furniture fabrics. You can swipe them down and not worry about them, which can make banquettes extremely kid friendly, says Clinton Smith, editor-in-chief of Veranda magazine. For an upcoming issue of the magazine we had outdoor fabric that looks and feels like plush velvet. ... It is really remarkable. For Smith, a banquette summons up memories of restaurant experiences with his family. I think of my favorite diner that we used to go to when I was a kid, and sliding into one of those booths, he says. People are looking for seating that encourages conversation and acknowledges that the kitchen is where most of us want to hang out during social occasions. Its become a cliche to say that the kitchen is the heart of a house, but at the end of the day, it is, the Veranda editor says. Santoro agrees that the popularity of banquettes is not just about stylish appearance people put them to immediate and practical uses for dining and entertaining. I think function drives this as much as aesthetics. The space-saving aspects of banquettes also aid in the desire for decluttering Santoro has seen with clients. People want cleaner, less fussy design. They want things to be really utilitarian. Everything is being cleaned up a bit. Organization is a top priority. Kitchen things that are used only once or twice a year are being stored elsewhere, Santoro says of making room for more people to hang out in their favorite part of a home. Banquettes are part of what Swanson calls an alternative space in a kitchen where visitors are able to lounge without being in the way of the cook. Interior designer Santoro believes the rise of TV cooking and reality shows has placed an additional emphasis on designing big, inviting kitchens. Just look at pop culture, she says. The Kardashians I cant stand them, but their kitchens are amazing. Thats what people see and thats what people want. jmeyers@ctpost.com; Twitter: @joesview R yan Matthew makes a quick recalculation the crop top works, but the black hip-huggers have to go. It could be the hesitation in Talene Boyajians eyes or Matthews instincts, but whatever the reason, plan B is making its way to Boyajians hands by hanger through a gap in the fitting-room curtain. Sometimes, you have to start over, says Matthew, 17, as he passes a black, flapper-style, sleeveless shift, all sequin shimmer and fringe swing, to its muse. Its one of several pieces that Matthew has pulled from the racks of Crave, a boutique in downtown Greenwich, all inspired by Boyajians look and spirit. If you dont own it once you are in front of the camera, then the look is going to be wrong, says Matthew on a recent afternoon. As if on cue, Boyajian steps out, her smile wide, looking glamorous. Matthew tops the look with a floppy black hat and, voila, Boyajian is transformed. The high school student who walked through the doors some 40 minutes ago now looks like a model ready for a fashion shoot, which is exactly where the two are headed. For the past three-and-a-half years, Matthew has evolved as a photographer, stylist and, ultimately, an artist, who uses fashion as his paintbox, scenes as his landscape, models as his composition and his lens as his canvas. It has led to a digital magazine, or lookbook, that is published in 50 countries through iBooks and available on issuu.com, and a digital fashion brand that spans a multimedia platform. Matthew is not looking to sell a particular look or brand so much as to build a platform for his art and his message, which is beauty is everywhere. Within that message is his search for transformation that old shirt becomes au courant with a new attitude, new accessories and a new scene (grace amid a gritty, urban locale; glamour within a glade). I have a strong passion for photography, and fashion is one way to share that art. Fashion is about more than clothing and how you cover yourself, says Matthew, who goes by a professional name. (His actual surname is Gross.) He launched that platform, AVICCI NY, about three years ago. I think fashion is a language, a visual language, that people can communicate with. Combining the clothing and people and location and atmosphere draws me more to what I do, rather than just the fashion. The camera came first an early talent fostered by his parents. Next came excursions to his mothers closet in the familys Greenwich home, where Matthew unearthed clothes and accessories for his models baby sitters when he was younger, and friends and acquaintances as he grew older. As he played around with looks, locations and composition, his purpose and passion came into focus helping people find their inner beauty and bringing out the hidden beauty he finds all around him. It began as a youthful diversion, but in September 2012 he launched his first free digital lookbook, all 92 pages, and he hasnt glanced back. Each one has had a theme. The ninth, which delves into icons, was released last month, featuring longtime collaborator and friend Elizabeth May, of Greenwich. He is at work on issue No. 10 (Equality), which he fits in between academics he is a junior at the Harvey School in Katonah, N.Y. and planning for a fundraising school fashion show on Tuesday. He will pull pieces from local designers and stores, such as Crave. Matthew is an artist of his times, moving seamlessly between platforms and media, teaming visual with text and posting at a frequency that suggests he does not sleep. His art is inspired by the moment, movements and sentiments streaming along social media, and details of his everyday existence. Even on this afternoon, he is not content to merely be a subject of a photograph. He breaks to grab his camera to document the day he was the subject of a fashion shoot. He also asks his mother, Tami McCarthy, to snap a few by smartphone. McCarthy smiles as she sees the scene unfold. Weve let him follow his creative impulses as he has grown up; he has had a lot of freedom to do that. Former model and FIT graduate Sonia Hedvat Torres, a Greenwich resident who opened Crave in 2011, first offered her merchandise several years ago, when Matthew exhausted the possibilities of his mothers closet. She casts an admiring eye on his look: olive suede ankle boots, black skinny jeans, a scarf and a gray zippered sweatshirt with camouflage accents. Fashion is very visual and he just had this style. He was so young, I think 14, but he looked just like you see him now. Even then, he had the right looks, his own style. He wears all the right things. She was as confident then as she is now that he would create art with her pieces. He just transforms everything he touches, she says. He started by styling himself. chennessy@hearstmediact.com; Twitter: @xtinahennessy Slideshow: Go online for more photos of Ryan Matthew and a closer look at his styles and AVICCI NY. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate A few weeks ago, in a studio near the Westport train station, a group of writers took their best shot at pitching book ideas to agents and editors looking for new material. Fueled by mimosas, and the energy in the room, the concepts ranged from not so great to very interesting, but the three writers who came out on top are having their pitch ideas sent on to Penguin Random House and Source Books. The session was part of the newly established Fairfield County Writers Studio, which is the brainchild of Tessa Smith McGovern and Carol Leonetti Dannhauser. Tessa is a Westport short-story writer and founder of the BookGirlTV YouTube channel, who decided to team up with her Fairfield journalist friend Carol. We want to offer soup to nuts, Tessa says of classes and day-long writing retreats that cover topics ranging from the basics of turning an idea into a story to getting a manuscript ready for submission to exploring the much wider array of options for publication in this e-Book era, from legacy publishers to indie houses. First of all we want to help people write good books. Provide the best, clear advice, McGovern says after the pitch session. I think I can assess where a writer is on their journey, and I know what to do to get them to the next step if theyre willing to do the work. McGovern has interviewed many popular writers, from Jane Green to Linda Fairstein, for her BookGirl TV series, and her whimsical 2015 volume Cocktails for Book Lovers traced the surprising booze preferences of Emily Bronte and Jane Austen, among many other authors of the past and present. The two women have known each other for many years and have run writing classes throughout Fairfield County. McGovern is still teaching at Sarah Lawrence College while setting up the new writers gathering spot in Westport. It sounds lofty, but we want to recreate the atmosphere of a New York writing studio in Westport. Were trying to create a community of writers, McGovern says of the salon-like aura she and Dannhauser are aiming for in between formal sessions at the Studio. A cup of tea and a relaxed book chat can be almost as educational as a class, they believe. We wanted a place near the train so that writers and teachers could come up from New York and come down from New Haven, Tessa says of the two adjoining offices/studios a stones throw from the Metro-North station. I like the idea of coffee shops and watering holes and really good food being close by, Dannhauser says, laughing, of the many places in the Saugatuck section of Westport where writers can gather before or after classes. Dannhauser believes Fairfield County is filled with writers frozen in front of their screens who need a place to interact with other wordsmiths. Everyone needs a sounding board. We have so many creative people in the community but they can feel like theyre isolated and in a vacuum. Not to sound too lofty, but I thought Be the change. I could keep griping or find kindred spirits. Ive known McGovern for a long time and she is so positive and uplifting, but I think both of us are honest. Dannhauser believes in what she calls the ABCs of writing Art, Business and Craft. For me writing has always been my business because I have to find a way to pay the mortgage, she stresses. Its wonderful to be creative, but I dont have a patron. The studio is setting class hours around the availability of good teachers. There are day sessions and night classes, as well as daylong seminars on weekends. Were all about getting to know who you are as a writer and how you can make your work better we want to take it to the highest level you can reach, McGovern says. jmeyers@hearstmediact.com; Twitter: @joesview A mazon has plunged head first into the groceries delivery market as it launched a deal to sell hundreds of Morrisons products on its website. The online giant has been considering selling fresh food in the UK for some time its Amazon Fresh service is already established in the US but start-up costs have always been deemed too high. However, the deal means that Amazon Prime customers nationwide will be able to buy non-perishables from Morrisons online for the first time. Fresh and frozen food is able to be ordered, but only in London, Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool and Newcastle by Prime Now customers. Deliveries in one-hour slots cost 6.99 but are free in two-hour slots. The facility will be launched in a few months and essentially turns the supermarket into a wholesale supplier to Amazon, although all packaging will be branded Morrisons. Morrisons chief executive David Potts dubbed the deal low-risk and shares in the supermarket soared 8.7p, or 4.6%, to 196.6p. However, the UKs fourth-biggest supermarket still has some way to go to catch up rivals Tesco, Sainsburys and Asda, which have offered online grocery shopping for several years. Morrisons only entered the online grocery market three years ago with a 210 million deal with Ocado, but even today the service is only available in a handful of locations across the country. In the capital, only north London is served by Morrisons online, leaving the company lagging behind in one of the highest spending cities for groceries in the country. Today the supermarket also revealed it has agreed to take capacity in Ocados new Erith distribution centre in south-east London. In return, the online grocer will create technology for Morrisons to start picking home deliveries in its stores. Rival supermarkets already use staff in stores to pick online food orders which is usually a cheaper way than stocking and running an expensive warehouse. It means Morrisons could also expand its in-house home delivery offering and be directly competing with Amazon. Playing catch-up: Morrisons boss David Potts (Picture: Reuters) / Toby Melville/Reuters Ocado investors seemed less pleased with the deal and appeared fearful that Morrisons was planning to elope with Amazon, as shares in the company dropped 25.9p, or 9.2%, to 255.94p. There were also fears that Amazon could prove a major threat to Ocado, although chief executive Tim Steiner has previously waved away concerns. The exact value of the deal between Morrisons and Amazon remains confidential, but sources said both sides hope for a long relationship. T wo days into an uncertain ceasefire, Bashar al Assad still has blood on his hands. At the beginning of the Syrian uprising in 2011, he fired into crowds of peaceful demonstrators and ignited the flame of the five-year war that has ground Syria into pulp. He has launched chemical weapons. He has bombed Aleppo into a parking lot, targeting heavily populated civilian areas with barrel bombs. He has allied with the Russian Air Force, which has taken out more hospitals and schools than combatants and killed more civilians in January alone than IS did. Assads prisons and detention centres are full of the disappeared. Most were political dissidents or people in the wrong place at the wrong time. Assad has driven out more than four million refugees, whose lives hang in an uncertain balance in Turkey, Lebanon, Egypt, Iraq and other parts where they have been scattered. He has driven nine million people from their homes inside Syria never to return because he has scorched their earth. In the four years since I began reporting inside Syria from both sides I tried to document the stories of the people who can not speak for themselves. For them to imagine that Bashar al Assad remains in power once peace comes would be a terrible betrayal. When the UN Special Envoy Staffan de Mistura mentioned in 2014 that any political solution had to include Assad, he alienated the Syrian opposition. But after observing the peace process close up I spent six months trailing de Mistura as he worked, and he has the toughest job on Earth I have begun to revise my thesis. Assad is a monster, on a par with Slobodan Milosevic, who also led his country into four bloody wars in former Yugoslavia. In negotiation theory we always need a BATNA best alternative to a negotiated agreement. In terms of ending this war, we have no BATNA. Assad is all we have at this moment. To remove him would leave a dangerous power vacuum which could, in all probability, be filled by IS. Forty years of the Assad regime, pere et fils, have left Syria with virtually no institutions strong enough to sustain democracy. The situation is simply not ripe for it. As a post-graduate student at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy in the USA, Ive spent more than 14 months focusing on the Syrian peace process. My conclusion is that IS is not going away, even if we turn Raqqa into rubble. It will return, in another form, another entity, because you cannot kill an ideology. IS has awakened something deep in the disenfranchised and demoralised but it has also empowered young Arab youth who see no alternative to violent extremism. Since the Russian bombardment began on September 30, recruitment is higher. Who can fill Assads shoes? He has allowed no one near him to garner power because, like all great dictators, he sensed whoever got too close would disempower him. There are plenty of ambitious politicians in Syria who could replace him but if they came forward he would have them killed. On the opposition side there has been trouble from the start. All you need to know, in the confusion of the nearly 1,000 militias on the ground, is that the people in power who are negotiating with the UN are not the people who have any influence on the ground or who matter. The powers in Vienna drew up a list of terrorists but strangely, Hezbollah is allowed to send fighters to Syria. The Russian Air Force is also allowed to bomb with impunity. De Mistura is trying hard. He has practised shuttle diplomacy; he has lined up the International Syria Support Group and tried to herd it towards a political deal to end the war. But what does that mean? Ceasefires dont work. I find they mean more time for the winners to re-assemble and grab more land before the final bell. Im trying not to be cynical: what Syria does not need is more cynicism. The Russians have played a deadly role in Syria. The UN has been so busy placating them to get their vote on the Security Council decision in December that it let them act with impunity. They are not just killing terrorists. 'Assad has allowed no one near him to garner power because, like all great dictators, he sensed whoever got too close would disempower him' Vladimir Putin has tasted power in the Middle East and he wont stop. It is true, in many ways, that Western leaders opened the door for him when they decided to put Syria on the back burner. Putin talks about terrorists at home, but it is a front for expanding Russias influence in the Middle East. In terms of monitoring the ceasefire, what matters is whether the Russians will honour their end of the bargain and stop bombing schools and hospitals. The second point is whether the sieges will actually be lifted. In his briefing to the Security Council on Friday, de Mistura stressed that towns under siege are receiving aid. But there are more than a million people under siege. Which leads us back to Assad. He never wanted to be a leader. That role was one that his late brother Bassel was being groomed for before he was killed in a high-speed car crash in 1994. Bashar was thrust into the arena by his father and schooled as a dictator. He now has a powerful moral choice. It is not too late. If guarantees are given that he will remain in a transitional government until the time is right for him to step down in his own way, with dignity then he has to contain the mass killing of civilians. He can give the command to put down the weapons. Five years is an awfully long time to live through a gruesome war. Wars traditionally end when the embattled parties are exhausted and put down their arms. It is time for Assad to take responsibility. He should seek his own BATNA best alternative to his negotiations. Its time to give him assurances that he wont be forced out yet but he has to end the killing. Janine di Giovanni is the author of The Morning They Came for Us: Dispatches from Syria (Bloomsbury, 16.99) and the Middle East editor of Newsweek. She is a Pakis Fellow at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. H ousing charity Shelter has issued a new report on the housing crisis, and it declares that existing demand for as many as 50,000 new homes a year cannot be met by building on brownfield land London will have to expand into the green belt and build more skyscrapers. It is a controversial prescription, and therefore eye-catching. The intention is to capture the attention and policy prescriptions of the mayoral candidates. The housing issue is perpetually fraught, yet it is now being reconfigured by changes to infrastructure. In other words, what counts as London is changing as developments such as Crossrail get under way. New and faster transport links have brought far greater swathes of the South-East within easy commuting distance of the centre for those who work there. Bringing areas with more affordable housing within reach of workers on moderate pay is one way of dealing with demand that, as the latest immigration figures show, is rising significantly. But it is simply not true that for central London the best options are skyscrapers or outward expansion. We are far less densely populated than, for instance, Paris, where people live in housing that is concentrated without being intimidatingly tall. It is possible to envisage far more medium-rise developments than we have at present four to eight or nine storeys, say which would accommodate far more people without drastically altering the skyline. The mansion blocks of Marylebone, for instance, are high-density but aesthetically pleasing and popular with residents; the same is true of the Peabody and Guinness estates, which are medium-rise. It is certainly true that how we build is a critical aspect of our ability to meet the housing crisis but Shelters prescriptions are not the only nor the best answer. Investment versus fares The other pressing question for the mayoral candidates is transport specifically overcrowding on the Tube. Today the Tory candidate, Zac Goldsmith, promised to reduce it drastically by better deployment of 1.5 billion-worth of planned investment. He is committed to maintaining improvements to four lines. Guaranteed funding for new trains and signalling, would, he says, create a third more capacity on Underground routes. This is not, as his opponents say, new money, but the initiative does usefully highlight a difference of emphasis between Mr Goldsmith and Sadiq Khan, the Labour candidate, who places greater emphasis on reducing fares. Londoners, of course, want both, and indeed Mr Khan maintains that he can both reduce fares and maintain investment through greater efficiency something TfL disputes. If it comes to a choice between the two approaches, then London needs to maintain investment more than it needs cheaper fares. But in this context, it is also worth considering the suggestion from the Lib-Dem candidate, Caroline Pidgeon, for an even greater difference between peak and off-peak fares. We need fresh thinking about reducing overcrowding as well as new money. A good night for film After the controversy surrounding its all-white acting shortlists, organisers pulled out all the stops to ensure a dazzling show at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood last night. Leonardo DiCaprio finally won as an actor at the fifth time of asking, thank goodness. There were some terrific British winners too: Mark Rylance as best supporting actor; Jenny Beavan for her costume design on Mad Max; and Sam Smith for best original song. Last night was good for the Brits and more importantly for the film industry. T he company behind Londons craft beer pub Euston Tap is set to launch a new bar that specialises in beers from the north of England. Called Northern Tap and due to open within a couple of months, it will replace Cider Tap which currently sits opposite Euston Tap near the entrance to the railway station of the same name. The groups co-founder, Jamie Hawksworth, told BeerInsider.com that a focus on Northern beers had been the planned when the Euston Tap opened five years ago but that it was overtaken by the explosion in London-based craft breweries. The opening will mean that the Euston Tap can continue its focus on London, American and other international craft beers while Northern Tap across the road offers a selection of brews from beyond the Watford Gap. The best craft beer pubs in London 1 /26 The best craft beer pubs in London The Old Red Cow Smithfield A hefty range of interesting beers spans two bars at this Long Lane pub, with significantly more keg than cask on offer. Should the 10-15 on tap not suffice, there are countless more available in bottle. Decent pub grub also features, while the wine list is notably excellent by craft beer pub standards. theoldredcow.com The Queens Head Kings Cross Tucked away around the corner from the station, just off Grays Inn Road, this charming old pub does more than just good beer. On top of three rotating, interestingly stocked hand pumps and more taps it also offers more than 12 whiskies, several ciders, serves platters of cheeses and cured meats, and has board games galore. queensheadlondon.com The Earl of Essex Islington Around 18 beers feature at this pub near the Regents Canal, including many from local London breweries such as Beavertown and Redemption. The pub food menu, which comes with recommended beer pairings, is also decent. Theres a small but sweet beer garden to boot. earlofessex.net Crown and Anchor Brixton Set almost equal distance between Stockwell, Brixton and Oval, this pub offers 20-odd beers on keg and cask. The beers are eclectic, but south London brews feature particularly prominently. Its fairly bustling of an evening, and youll also find a decent roast dinner. crownandanchorbrixton.co.uk The Understudy South Bank This relative newcomer from the National Theatre is the South Banks best pub bar none. Its package includes in excess of 10 beers on tap, a tank of brewery fresh Meantime lager, a decent spirit, wine and cocktail offering, and some pretty sweet views over the Thames to boot. nationaltheatre.org.uk Cock Tavern Hackney Central Originally the home of Howling Hops brewery (before they outgrew the space and launched their own tank bar), this Hackney Central boozer is now home to Maregade Brew Co.. As well as serving their brews, it also specialises in great beer generally. More than 20 lines of it in fact, including a fair bit of Howling Hops stuff. Be aware that its cash only. thecocktavern.co.uk Old Fountain Old Street Theres usually upwards of 15 craft beers on the taps at this comfy (unless its rammed) Old Street boozer, and it has the added bonus of a rather nice terrace. A decent number of the beers available tend to be London brews, with Five Points, Hammerton and Kernel among the regulars. Looking for another point of difference? It has a fish tank. oldfountain.co.uk The Southampton Arms Kentish Town This pub set about equal distance between Gospel Oak, Tufnell Park and Kentish Town stations has resisted going too craft despite stocking around 20 varieties just that it still feels like a local boozer. Theres a particular prevalence of brews from Londons smaller breweries as well as those from around the UK, while fans of craft cider are also well catered for with five or six on tap at all times. thesouthamptonarms.co.uk The Harp Covent Garden This characterful but cramped old pub a stones throw from Charing Cross station offers a rotating selection of 20 or so brews, main focusing on real ales. And as a regular CAMRA award winner, you can rest assured theyre in good condition. Only problem? It gets absolutely rammed. harpcoventgarden.com Mother Kellys Bethnal Green This Paradise Row beer bar from the team behind The Queens Head in Kings Cross has over 23 numbered taps which correspond to a changing selection of brews like a Chinese restaurant for beer. Its inspired by a New York taproom, so dont expect a cosy pub but if the weathers nice, you can count on an outdoor barbecue and plenty of atmosphere on the terrace. motherkellys.co.uk The Lyric Soho The best thing about this characterful pub near Piccadilly Circus is the way it merges the music, fun and frivolity youd expect from a Soho boozer with a surprisingly stunning selection of beers theres never far off 20 on tap. Oh, and there are open fires. lyricsoho.co.uk Hack and Hop City The latest pub from the team behind The Dean Swift and The Old Red Cow (also in this list), this decent-sized venue just off Fleet Street has more than a decent beer list more than 20 split between cask and keg. Theres also a gastropub-style food menu, though thats not what brings most people in. thehackandhop.com The White Horse Parsons Green This west London institution affectionately(ish) known as The Sloaney Pony due to its location and clientele serves a lot of great British beer, but really comes into its own when it comes to foreign imports particularly from Belgium, Germany and the USA. Options include Pilsner Urquell tank beer alongside eight hand pumps and around 10 taps, plus more than 130 bottles. The gastropub food is good quality and it boasts a particularly sizeable beer garden along with a calendar packed with beer festivals. whitehorsesw6.com Euston Tap Euston Housed in a teeny stone building just in front of Euston station which was built in 1870 as a form of passenger information kiosk, the Euston Tap is not blessed when it comes to space. Neither is it in any way comfy. However, it does stock an impressive range of beers 20 keg, 8 cask and 150 by bottle, to be exact. Those with an affection for apples should also check out sister site Cider Tap across the road. eustontap.com Dean Swift Bermondsey A rotating selection of more than 15 cask and keg beers are almost always available at The Dean Swift. What makes the place particularly great is that despite this great beer selection, and some very good Sunday roasts served upstairs, it maintains a real local boozer vibe. thedeanswift.com The Fox Haggerston This east London longtimer offers a regularly-changing selection of between 15 and 20 beers on tap at all times, plus some very decent booze-absorbing pizzas. Brews from London makers such as Kernel, Beavertown and Pressure Drop tend to get top billing alongside plenty of international offers. Theres a beer garden out back, too. Cask Pub & Kitchen Pimlico Theres a constantly changing selection of 25 beers on tap at this tucked-away Pimlico pub, not to mention multiple fridges full of interesting bottles. Its the original from the group behind the Craft Beer Co chain, and we reckon its still the best. caskpubandkitchen.com Craft Beer Co Various locations The original Clerkenwell branch of this mini-chain was one of the first proponents of craft beer in London. Its still going strong, while there are now also sites in Brixton, Islington, Clapham, Covent Garden and the City. The Islington branch, which comes with a large beer garden and comfier seating, is a favourite. thecraftbeerco.com BrewDog Various locations Youll no these guys. They do beer for punks, apparently. Whatever you make of BrewDogs marketing gimmicks, they make some bloody good beer. Find it at their bars in Camden, Clapham Junction, Clerkenwell, Angel, Shepherds Bush, Shoreditch and Soho, along with plenty of guest beers from other brewers. The Shepherds Bush branch usually has the biggest selection of beers, totalling more than 30. brewdog.com Draft House Various locations The Draft House group is far removed from the kind of minimalist, vaguely uncomfortable craft beer pub where its all about beer. Expect quirky design, good music and burgers, hot dogs and pub staples served throughout the day. Find sites in Battersea, Fitzrovia, Hammersmith, Tower Bridge, the City and Bethnal Green. drafthouse.co.uk It's not quite as random as it sounds. Hawksworth and his team are well-placed to pick what the bar stocks. They already run a number of northern sites: Tapped Leeds, The Sheffield Tap, The York Tap, The Harrogate Tap and Piccadilly Tap in Manchester. The location also makes sense given the beers will be served moments from the station which acts as a gateway to the North for many Londoners. The opening will coincide with a refurb of both premises, which will include enhancing the Euston Taps currently less than reliable toilets something which many craft beer fans will be glad to hear. And theres more in the pipeline from the company, too. It will be adding a third London site to its portfolio in the coming weeks with the launch Waterloo Tap in a railway arch near the station. Follow Ben Norum on Twitter @BenNorum Follow Going Out on Facebook and on Twitter @ESgoingout Review at a glance T he Albanian soprano Ermonela Jaho caused a sensation in 2011 when at short notice she took the lead role in Suor Angelica, the second opera of Puccinis trilogy Il Trittico. She returns for the revival as glorious as ever, investing the character of the traumatised nun with the same combination of gleaming tone and expressive intensity. When she took her rapturous curtain-call, she looked emotionally drained, and no wonder: Richard Joness production, ably revived by Sarah Fahie, is a powerful piece of theatre. The mystical vision at the end is ingeniously humanised so that the Virgin Mary doesnt appear and the child she sees is from the infant sanatorium in which she serves, her imagination turning him into the illegitimate child taken from her years before. Anna Larsson is once again a formidable Princess. From her entry, slinking alongside the rear wall, a dead animal over her arm, she cuts a sinister figure, deploying a suitably regal tone into the bargain. Gleaming and expressive: Ermonela Jaho received a rapturous curtain call for her role as Suor Angelica / Bill Cooper The pale green walls of the sanatorium in Miriam Buethers design (lit by D M Wood) afford a telling contrast to the blackened wharfside brickwork of Il Tabarro (designed by Ultz), which provides an oppressive background to that tale of smouldering jealousy, featuring Patricia Racette as a fine Giorgetta and Carl Tanner as an impressive Luigi. Joness production has other virtues too. If the eponymous cloak, concealing Luigis corpse, is a metaphor for hidden passions, then the shrouding of Angelicas dead body neatly points up the repression of the forbidden desires that flit around the convent. 'Anna Larsson is once again a formidable Princess. From her entry, slinking alongside the rear wall, a dead animal over her arm, she cuts a sinister figure, deploying a suitably regal tone into the bargain. ' The final opera, Gianni Schicchi, is also about concealment and deception, and Joness updating from 13th-century Florence to his favourite mid-20th century is as fresh and surreally funny as ever in Benjamin Daviss revival. Lucio Gallo, who had vocal difficulties as Michele in Il Tabarro, sounded re-energised as Schicchi. The rapacious relatives are mercilessly characterised, with an appealing Lauretta from Susanna Hurrell. Nicola Luisotti admirably differentiates the sombre tonal palette of Il Tabarro from the more seraphic textures of Suor Angelica, but he doesnt quite capture the quicksilver wit that Antonio Pappano discovered in Gianni Schicchi the first time round. Until March 15, Royal Opera House (020 7304 4000, roh.org.uk) Follow Going Out on Facebook and on Twitter @ESgoingout T ried-and-tested honeymoon spots might offer guaranteed sun, sea and sand, but if youre looking for something less cliche than a fortnight in Hawaii or Fiji, there are plenty of alternative stays that can offer adventure and exploration, as well as breathtaking natural beauty. From cosy island stays to red rock wonderlands, here are the post-wedding holiday hot spots that you need to know about this year. Grindavik, Iceland From walking on glaciers to basking in the midnight sun, a honeymoon in Iceland provides a magical setting like no other. The land of ice, fire and water is laden with breathtakingly beautiful hot springs and geysers all over the country, many with temperatures warm enough to bathe in. One of the most popular for a dip with honeymooners is the beautiful Blue Lagoon, located in a lava field in Grindavik on the Reykjanes Peninsula. Go in winter for a chance to stargaze the natural spectacle of the Aurora Borealis - once seen, it is never forgotten. Grindavik, Iceland / Corbis Arches National Park, Utah Hiking couples will feel right at home in one of Utahs most incredible corners, where 2,000 natural red rock arches make up a craggy, sandstone landscape. The 40-mile scenic drive climbs high onto the plateau and crosses a vast and glorious setting of panoramic views with distant and snowcapped mountains. Head here at sunset and youll get a glimpse of the magic hour, the natural phenomenon that occurs when the red rock becomes saturated with the radiance of the setting sun. Arches National Park, Utah / Corbis Yosemite National Park, California In Yosemite, the crown jewel of wild spaces, youll find deep valleys, grand meadows, ancient giant sequoias, vast wilderness areas and crashing waterfalls to explore together. Over 95 per cent of the parks 747,956 acres is classified as wilderness, so there is plenty to see. Discover El Capitan, the worlds tallest granite monolith or see the spray at Yosemite falls, the largest waterfall in North America with breathtaking views. Accommodation ranges from tent camping to five-star hotels, so you can find your own ideal way to enjoy this magical destination. Ishigaki, Japan If youre looking for a sub-tropical beach holiday away from other honeymooning couples, Ishigaki may just be the destination for you. The water around this remote Japanese island is a pleasing emerald hue, with white sandy beaches perfect for sun worshiping and relaxing with a good book. What Ishigaki lacks in terms of man-made tourist spots, such as the shrines and temples which are ubiquitous throughout much of Japan, it more than makes up for in terms of natural beauty. The coral reefs here are unrivalled and there are many scenic marine spots on the island, such as Shiraho, noted for a variety of colored coral that can be seen covering the bottom below the transparent waters. Paddle, snorkel and surf your way around Ishigakis beautiful palm, fringed beaches or take a boat out to remote and beautiful surrounding islands, such as Taketomi-jima, Iriomote-jima, Kuro-shima and Kohama-jima. Ishigaki, Japan / Corbis Copenhagen, Denmark There are plenty of reasons to head to Copenhagen for a weekend break, but why not make it the destination for your honeymoon? Nothing could be more romantic than strolling through a city, hand in hand, discovering hidden corners together. The Danish capitals cobbled streets are perfect for exploration either by foot or on bike, which wind past copper spires, soap-scrubbed storefronts, bakeries and cosy canals. Design fans will be impressed with the sleek Scandinavian functionalism of the city as well as the well-dressed Danes that fill the streets, while theres plenty of new Nordic culinary spots for foodies to enjoy (outside of Noma). The Little Mermaid statue, the postcard-perfect Nyhavn strip and Amalienborg Palace should be on your list for sightseeing and Instagramming. Cape Winelands, South Africa Cape Town might be your first port of call for South African travel, but glance north and youll find a much more romantic setting for your getaway. Thanks to its dry, mountainous climate, the area is home to more than 300 vineyards and is one of the worlds largest wine producers. For this reason, oenophiles will find plenty of superior glasses to sup on while gazing onto the rolling greenery of the vineyards, with vintages that range from Sauvignon blanc to its famed red Pinotage. Take a guided bike tour between the area's standout estates, then pair your finds with local cuisine at one of Cape Winelands top-flight restaurants. Autumn harvest in the Southern hemisphere is the perfect time to visit - the weather is warm and sunny and the late sunsets will have you wining and dining outside together well into the night. Cape Winelands, South Africa / Corbis Madagascar Madagascar is a dream destination for nature-loving couples, with rainforest and desert existing within just 300km of one another. Few places on Earth offer such a rich and intense diversity of unspoilt nature, with sandstone canyons, limestone karsts, mountains, fertile hills and forests of every kind ripe for exploring. And with 5000km of coastline, youre never far from the sea, which is typically crystal clear and idyllic. Spotting a lemur is a must, the signature animal of Madagascar, but theres also fossa, chameleons, frogs, turtles and whales to check off your list. Likewise, the trees and plants are just as impressive, with native, century-old baobabs, towering forests and hundreds of orchids contributing to the lush flora and fauna of this beautiful Island nation. Stockholm Archipelago Just a few minutes away from the city of Stockholm, the archipelago begins - a cluster of some 30,000 stunning islands, skerries, islets and rocks. Explore tranquil coves that lead to the open sea, wooded islands, rocky cliffs and sandy beaches that form this rugged, Scandinavian landscape. If watching The Revenant has sparked your innate love of the wilderness, you wont find a better place for you and your betrothed to be at one with nature than Swedens rocky Islands. You can boat, hike, fish, sea kayak, bike and swim and even ice yacht here, as well as forage for your own food. Look for wild berries in August and mushrooms in August and September. Cook your own fish on BBQ stations at camping sites, or - for the nature-shy - go gourmet at some famed Swedish restaurants on Fjaderholmarna, Grinda and Varmdo. Stockholm Archipelago / Corbis Follow us on Twitter: @eslifeandstyle A n Islamic studies tutor who raped a 14-year-old pupil and left her pregnant during a five-year campaign of abuse has been jailed for 19 years. Mohammed Islam, 31, from Bethnal Green, started molesting the schoolgirl in 2010 when she was just nine, while teaching the Koran to children at an East End Islamic centre. She felt powerless to stop the sex attacks, Snaresbrook Crown Court heard, which culminated in Islam raping and impregnating her in July last year. Prosecutor Robert Brown said the girl then delayed having an abortion so tests could prove Islam was the father. The respected tutor initially claimed his victim had initiated sex despite her young age, but he admitted rape and sexual activity with a child when she agreed to testify against him. The girl's father, in a victim impact statement, said: What Mohammed has done to my daughter has broken me. In our religion she is no longer considered a virgin and is therefore unable or unlikely to get married to have a family. I am devastated. I am so angry. I only hope and pray for her that this abuse will not have a long term effect on her. A teenager has been stabbed close to a Tube station in south London. The man, thought to be in his late teens, was found with knife injuries close to Oval station on Monday afternoon. He was reportedly attacked near the junction of Brixton Road and Camberwell New Road, which have been closed by police. It is believed he was stabbed in the street after a fight broke out at a nearby chicken shop, the Met said. A witness said dozens of school children were gathered at the scene minutes afterwards. Stabbing: Roads have been closed by police Sophia Sleigh / Sophia Sleigh Matthew Batten, 29, a civil servant on his way home, told the Standard: "I arrived about five minutes after it happened and there was a guy being loaded into an ambulance. "There were about 40 or 50 school kids crowding around and apparently a few people saw a guy get stabbed and fall to the ground. "There were two ambulances and about nine police cars and the traffic was chaos." Scotland Yard said it was awaiting an update on the extent of the victim's injuries. A spokesman for the Metropolitan Police said: "Police were called at 5.36pm on Monday, 29 February, to reports of an assault close to Oval Underground station. "Officers, the London Ambulance Service and Londons Air Ambulance attended. "A male, believed to be aged in his late teens, was found suffering from stab injuries. He was taken to a south London hospital, we await an update on his condition. "Local road closures are in place." There have been no arrests. D etectives are investigating a sex attack on a woman in a south-east London street. Scotland Yard said the sexual offence took place in Mottingham Road, Eltham, near the junction with Elmstead Lane just after 6am on Sunday. The Mets Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command are leading the investigation. Since the attack took place, the victim is being supported by specialist officers. Police have released a description of the suspect and appealed for witnesses. The man is said to be of eastern European appearance, aged in his 30s, around 6ft tall. He wore a grey beanie hat, brown leather jacket, dark blue jeans and black Nike trainers with a white swoosh on the sides. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call detectives at the Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command via 101, or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 A teenage girl was allegedly raped in broad daylight in east London. Detectives from the Metropolitan Police Services Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command said they are investigating the alleged attack in Damien Street, Whitechapel, at 3.30pm on Friday, February 26. The suspect is described as an Asian man with a moustache who is aged about 20 years old. He was wearing a red Nike cap, a black jacket, white t-shirt, blue jeans and black Nike Air Force trainers, a Met spokesman said. The alleged victim has since been seen by specialist support services and is being supported by specialist sexual offence investigation officers. Detectives investigating the allegations are appealing for anyone with was in the area at the time or who saw the described suspect to contact them immediately. Anyone with information should call detectives at the Sexual Offences, Exploitation and Child Abuse Command on 101 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111. A crane hire firm is facing a hefty fine after admitting responsibility for a catastrophic collapse in Battersea that left two people dead. Michael Alexa, 23, and Jonathan Cloke, 37, were both killed when an overloaded 165ft crane crashed the ground in Battersea, south London, in September 2006. Mr Cloke, the crane operator, died at the controls of the machine, while Mr Alexa, a bus driver, was changing a wheel on his car when he was crushed to death by the falling structure. The families of both men were forced to wait nearly six years for an inquest, and have endured ten years hoping those responsible would be brought to justice. Today at Southwark Crown Court, Falcon Crane Hire Limited admitted two health and safety breaches that led to the disaster, in a deal that saw charges dropped against its managing director Douglas Genge, 71. The structure, being used on a Barratt Homes development on the site of a former school in Thessaly Road, Battersea, had been badly overloaded with twelves tonnes of counterweights instead of eight. The inquest heard the mistake was made by Falcon Crane Hire Limited, because it had used the wrong instruction manual when erecting the crane. Health and Safety Executive inspector Brent Bolton told Westminster Coroners' Court the extra weight would have increased the tension on a crucial set of bolts by "100-plus per cent". The company had also failed to investigate why four bolts on the crane had failed two months earlier. The company pleaded guilty to two breaches of the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, on what would have been the first day of the trial, and two charges against Genge, from Norfolk, were dropped. "The prosecution and the defence have been in discussions and the outcome of which is the company have agreed to plead guilty on the condition that the prosecution brings to an end proceedings against Mr Genge, the managing director", said prosecutor Deanna Heer. Judge Alistair McCreath adjourned sentencing until March 15, and agreed for the prosecution to offer no evidence against Mr Genge. Relatives of both men were in court this morning to hear the guilty pleas. After the crash, the body of Mr Alexa, a bus driver from Brixton, south London with an 18-month-old son, could not be recovered for three days as authorities struggled to move the stricken crane. His mother Liliana told the inquest: "Losing Michael is like being incarcerated and chained. No parent should ever experience that." Mr Cloke, from Guildford, had celebrated the christening of his son two days before he died, and his father John said: "Of greatest importance to Jonathan was his family. "He really did care about us all. "He was utterly devoted to his wife and his son. "Words like devastated cannot describe the effect his death has had on us." When the inquest could finally take place in March 2012, the jury found: "Both men died as a result of a crane collapse due to failure of the inner slew ring bolts due to overloading of the counterweight." The Crown Prosecution Service initially said no one would be prosecuted over the deaths, but reversed its position when the inquest jury blamed the crane company for the collapse. M ore than three quarters of car pollution in the south-east is produced by drivers living outside London, according to new research. An Oxford University study found the reliance on cars in the areas beyond the M25 meant carbon emissions targets would not be met. The report, published in Transport Policy journal, found that in 2012 the population of 12 million living in the south-east but outside the capital produced 77 per cent of the region's car emissions, compared with just 23 per cent by the eight million people within London. Researchers found that the average daily car mileage per person was 7.7 miles by Londoners, less than half the 15.6 miles driven by those neighbouring the capital. The study's author, Dr Caralampo Focas, said the "patchwork" of targets for reducing emissions outside London were unlikely to be met. "London and New York have been studied as role models for other cities in terms of land use and transport policies. Yet this approach neglects to look at the bigger picture," he said. "Both capital cities are surrounded by sprawling developments that extend well beyond the main urban centres where residents are heavily reliant on their cars and often have to drive to their nearest shop or other facilities. "Neither London nor New York has a regional planning or transport authority covering the entire region. These findings suggest that policymakers should view cities in their wider regional context given this is where the greatest use of energy and greenhouse gas emissions is now concentrated." A debate around air quality was sparked in September last year when VW Group admitted 482,000 of its diesel vehicles in the US were fitted with defeat device software that could cheat emissions tests. The German-based manufacturer also announcing that some 11 million vehicles were affected worldwide - including almost 1.2 million in the UK. The Oxford University study included Bedfordshire; Essex; Herfordshire; Buckinghamshire; East and West Sussex; Hampshire; Kent; Oxfordshire; and Surrey as being in the South East region, but outside London. It also includes unitary authorities Luton; Southend-on-Sea; Thurrock; Bracknell Forest; Brighton and Hove; Isle of Wight; Medway; Milton Keynes; Portsmouth; Reading; Slough; Southampton; West Berkshire; Windsor and Maidenhead; and Wokingham. The research was financed under the Marie Curie programme of the European Union. A dog-lover with a heart of gold died after being hit by a car as he ran into a road to catch his runaway pet. Christian Jansen, 35, a Dutch national, had been living in the UK for just three weeks when he was knocked down at the Stockley Road roundabout in West Drayton. He ran into busy roundabout to save his German Shepherd Tinka when he was struck by a silver Peugeot 307 at 10.40pm on Friday, February 19. Friends said he had moved to London in search of a better life and had got involved with a campaign to stop the third runway at Heathrow. Mr Jansen was said to be walking his dog while staying with friends when the accident took place. Close friend and former girlfriend Malissa Eland-Lobbezoo told the Standard: He really was a free spirit. He was a very sweet person. He loved to travel and his dog was very important to him. Friend Anita Bouwess said: He went to London because he wanted to know if it was a good place to live for him and his dog. He was a loving person, for people and also for animals. Another friend said: Tinka was very special to him. Im not surprised he would put himself in such danger to help her. Christian's pet dog Tinka Mr Jansen was involved in rescuing dogs in Holland where he had lived on a boat, and he had taken in Tinka five years ago to protect her from harm. He was from Weert, a city in the southeastern Netherlands. Tinka has been taken in by a lost dog shelter but it is hoped she can go to the Netherlands to live with one of Mr Jansens friends. The driver of the Peugeot which hit him has not been arrested and is helping the Metropolitan police, which has appealed for witnesses. Detective Sergeant Stephen Pidgeon, leading the investigation, said: We understand the deceased was trying to catch his dog, described as a German Shepherd or Alsatian, in the moments prior to the collision. As a result of this the deceased ended up in the road where he was struck by the car. If anyone remembers seeing this scenario or the collision itself, please contact police. Anyone who witnessed the collision is asked to contact police via the witness appeal line on 020 8991 9555. P olice are appealing for help in finding a man with Alzheimers who has gone missing from his home in Richmond. John Eldergill, 84, was last seen at his home in Ham at 9am on Monday. He is believed to have walked out of the front door while his wife was upstairs. Mr Eldergill, who is deemed as a high risk missing person, was last seen wearing an olive coloured jacket and fawn trousers. He often walks with a hunch, a Metropolitan Police Service spokesman said, and is known to frequent train stations. A Met spokesman added Mr Eldergill sometimes gets the train from Richmond to Clapham or Mitcham as he grew up there. Anyone with information should call police on 101, quoting reference 16MIS008606. A comedian has revealed he was a victim of a mistaken identity after police stormed his hotel room and handcuffed him as they searched for a man armed with a knife. Chris Ramsey, known to TV audiences from his appearances on Mock The Week and Live at the Apollo, tweeted about the shocking incident today at the Renaissance Hotel near St Pancras station. The stand-up comic had finished a gig in Hertfordshire and travelled down to London ahead of a performance tonight at the Lyric Theatre. He said he was dressed in just his boxers when he heard a loud single knock on the door. Scene: Police were called to the Renaissance Hotel near St Pancras station after reports a man threatened staff with a knife / Google Maps When he opened the door to ask who was there, officers stormed the room before they pushed him up against a wall and handcuffed him. He explained on Twitter, the incident happened after he was wrongly identified him as a man armed with a knife who threatened staff hours before the incident. He said: It was surreal. They kept shouting police open the door! I honestly thought it was a joke and that Ant and Dec or Keith Lemon were setting me up for a prank. The police handcuffed me, and kept saying Youre coming with us - all I could muster up to say back was But Im in my underpants!. On Twitter, Mr Ramsey said he was shaking and that he opened the mini-bar in a bid to calm his nerves. A Met police spokesman confirmed the incident took place, hours after reports of staff being threatened at the five-star hotel. She said: Police were called at 18:55pm on Sunday to reports of a man with a knife who was threatening hotel staff at the Renaissance Hotel, St Pancras. Officers attended and searched the area, but the suspect was not found. "The matter was reported as a racially aggravated harassment, and officers left the venue. At 00:36am on Monday an emergency call was made to police and it was reported that the suspect had returned to the location with a knife. Police attended and were informed the suspect was inside the hotel. Officers entered a room where they detained a man. Following further enquiries it was established he was not the suspect. Officers continue to liaise with the premises whilst they conduct further enquiries to identify the suspect." A spokesman from the hotel said: "The safety and security of our guests and employees is of the utmost importance, so when a suspicious man started to threaten the safety of our employees we immediately contacted the police. "The police opened an investigation and instructed our hotel staff to alert them if anyone fitting the description of the suspect returned to the hotel. "It is unfortunate that when Mr Ramsey entered the hotel lobby the staff contacted the police out of an abundance of caution who chose to engage Mr Ramsey. "We have since learned that Mr Ramsey has been involved in an case of mistaken identity. Our apologies go out to Mr Ramsey that he endured such an unfortunate matter while a guest at our hotel." S ky News political editor Faisal Islam has revealed how he was repeatedly stopped and searched by police seeking terrorism suspects after the 7/7 London bombings. The broadcaster, 38, described how he was singled out on four occasions by police carrying out random searches under anti-terrorism legislation. He believes he became the victim of racial profiling as the Metropolitan Police responded to public fears after the July 7, 2005 attacks. Islam, a former economics editor at Channel 4 News, told The Independent he bears no malice towards the police and accepts they were simply doing their job. He said: In the years after 7/7 I got stopped and searched four times. Obviously at that moment it annoys you. Then I researched it, as you would as a journalist, and found it just wasnt a sensible use of police time. Stop-and-search increased dramatically after the attacks, but only around one per cent of searches led to arrests, and none for terrorism offences. Islam added: I got stopped outside Kings Cross. I think at that point they were profiling me. It happened more than you would think. I kept all the paperwork. I dont begrudge officers just doing their job. The third or fourth time of course, I was the nightmare person with all the statistics of how many people were caught which I think was zero. A woman used the front of a south London cinema to make a public leap year proposal to her partner. The film listings display at the front of the Ritzy cinema in Brixton was replaced with the romantic message on Monday, which read "Will you marry me Jay? x". Staff said they did not yet know whether Jay had accepted or even seen the display. Leap year - wedding proposals But a phone operator at the Ritzy told the Standard: "We do believe it's a genuine proposal. "I saw a woman on her knees with the sign behind her and her friend taking photos, possibly to send to her partner." Tim Kerr shared a photo of the sign on Twitter and wrote: "A leap year proposal at the Ritzy Brixton. Say 'yeah' Jay!" Another tweeter said: "Using a cinema billboard to propose, so Brixton!" A building has collapsed into an underground station as part of the biggest disaster training exercise ever seen in Europe. The four-day Exercise Unified Response is simulating a high-rise tower block under renovation falling into Waterloo underground station to prepare emergency crews for a large-scale operation with mass casualties. It is designed to test the contingency planning of more than 70 organisations, including police, London Ambulance Service, councils, mortuaries and the Governments Cobra committee. The drill is being staged at Littlebrook Power Station, near Dartford, and includes 100 firefighters, 15 fire engines and 1,000 actors playing casualties amid upturned tube trains and thousands of tons of rubble. A look at training exercise by London emergency services A mock-up Tube station has been created and seven carriages upturned in the rubble, with 600 injured today being led out of tunnels to safety. Police disaster victim identification teams will work with urban search and rescue teams, pathologists and forensic dentists. The 770,000 drill is funded by European Union money and there will also be officers from Interpol and police from EU countries including France and Germany. A temporary mortuary has been built at the power station. Disaster exercise: the event is being held at Littlebrook power station / Jeremy Selwyn Chief Constable Debbie Simpson, of the National Police Chiefs, said: Its not often we get to test working practices on such a scale and its really positive to see so many of our European colleagues involved. "Effective evaluation and debriefing will help highlight good practice and any areas for development. In an interview with the Standard earlier this month, London Fire Brigade commissioner Ron Dobson described tube tunnels as the worst place possible for rescuing people as moving trains and live wires added to the danger in cramped, dark tunnels. Mr Dobson said of todays exercise: The idea is theres been the collapse of a high-rise building above Waterloo station thats gone down into the station itself (and) caused some collapse in the tunnels, there are some underground trains caught up in it and people trapped. Theres lot of other hazards down there we need to be careful of, we couldnt just go in and drag people out in the way we might do if it was a burning building. In something like 7/7 you have to take them from the Tube train, along the lines and out the platforms. Mr Dobson said new techniques means firefighters would be able to get to the bombed trains faster than 11 years ago. In recent years specially trained teams from around the UK have been deployed to assist in the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 in July 2014 and the Shoreham Air Crash in August last year. A woman is searching for a mystery Londoner who she thinks may have accidentally picked up a suitcase containing precious photos and mementos of her late father-in-law. Emmy Fowle, 41, who runs a video production company, issued an appeal after her mother-in-law Jo Fowle accidentally left the case on a London-bound train last Monday. The grieving pensioner was travelling back to Basingstoke after visiting her son and daughter-in-law in Devon, following her husband Bob's recent death, and had mementos from his life in a black suitcase with red trim. But after getting off the Paddington-bound service at Reading to change on her way home, she realised that someone else on the train must have had a near-identical bag. When she got home, Mrs Fowle opened the case to see that the photographs, keepsakes and mementos were missing - and soon realised she had taken the wrong case. Mistake: the missing suitcase is identical to the one Mrs Fowle picked up / Emmy Fowle The only clue Mrs Fowle has about the identity of the owner of the suitcase she had accidentally taken is a receipt inside the bag for a shop in Kingston, south-west London. The family said the items inside the case also lead her to believe it probably belongs to a young woman, who is possibly a smoker. Although she immediately reported the mix-up, nobody has come forward to claim the other suitcase - or to return Mrs Fowle's missing bag. Emmy, who launched an appeal on social media to track down the missing bag, said of her mother-in-law: "She's really, really sad about it. There are black and white photos of his parents, and with the children - my husband, and things like a calendar from 1966, he wrote when the kids were born. Missing: the case is black with a red trim / Emmy Fowle "All sorts of little things that mean absolutely nothing to anyone else but mean the world to her, a woman who is feeling pretty bereft at the moment anyway. "I don't understand why anyone who's got it would want to keep it. They're very, very simple unmaterialistic people, there's nothing of value in there. "She's 74, it's just got a lot of old lady knickers in there." Mrs Fowle said she suspects the owner of the suitcase may have not even realised they have the wrong bag. "Some people get back from places and they just dump their bag and don't go to it for a week or so." She added: "The Facebook appeal is the last resort - we're hoping for a happy ending." S upporters of Democrat US presidential contender Bernie Sanders will hold a rally outside the Houses of Parliament tomorrow. The event coincides with Super Tuesday, when Democrats and Republicans in 13 states nominate who should run for the White House. The 2016 primary season has been set alight by Mr Sanders and Republican Donald Trump emerging as potential winners of their respective contests. With the outcome for both parties expected to be tight, voters outside the US could play a key role. Travis Mooney, co-coordinator of LondonforBernie.org, behind the rally, said: In 2008 1,400 Democrats voted in London but this time we have nearly 1,000 Bernie supporters alone. The London for Bernie Rally will start at Parliament Square at 6pm and proceed to the US Global Presidential Primary voting centre in Great Smith Street. Vermont senator Mr Sanders shocked Hillary Clintons campaign with the level of support for him in early battles. However, the ex-Secretary of State won a resounding victory this weekend in South Carolina. Sanders London suppor-ters will join Democrats at other UK voting stations to have their say by post, fax, and email until ballots close on March 8. Elsewhere in the capital, Republican Party members will gather for Super Tuesday events, although details are unconfirmed. Last week, Mr Trump cemented his position as Republican frontrunner in the Nevada caucuses. T ory infighting over Europe deepened today as a senior Cabinet minister accused Downing Street of a relentless campaign of fear against a Brexit. In its latest shot against the Leave campaign, the Government warned that Britain could be out of the European Union by 2018 with no trade deals to fall back on if the public vote Leave on June 23. A formal Whitehall study claimed that: The City of London would be cast outside the international laws and regulations governing its trade, causing years of uncertainty. UK financial firms could have to meet different or additional requirements for operations in other EU countries if Britain left. Some 53 trade deals would have to be renegotiated, a process taking six to eight years after the UK finally leaves. Access to the huge European single market could be disrupted. EU referendum: Should the UK vote to stay or leave? Britain would have little say over its exit deal, according to the document, and would be excluded from EU discussions on the nature of the exit negotiations. The report, which was served with the full authority of Whitehall, was hammered home by Cabinet Office minister Matt Hancock who said there would be at least a decade of uncertainty. But in a furious counterblast, Commons Leader Chris Grayling, said: People will not be impressed with this relentless campaign of fear. TODO: define component type apester Mr Grayling, one of six Cabinet ministers pushing for a vote to leave the EU, lampooned the idea it would take twice as long to strike new trade agreements as it did to win the Second World War. The toxic blue on blue attacks were fuelled by alarm among Eurosceptic ministers that David Cameron is harnessing the civil service to help the campaign to Remain while forbidding civil servants from showing them official papers relating to the EU referendum. Commons committee chair Bernard Jenkin, an ally of Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith, applied for an Urgent Question in Parliament on the role played by the chief civil servant, Sir Jeremy Heywood, whom Eurosceptics blame for mobilising Whitehall against them. Mr Jenkin said the Prime Minister should explain to Parliament why some senior ministers were being kept in the dark about work going on in their own departments a reference to Mr Duncan Smith not knowing that his officials were assembling figures on EU benefit claims. Mr Hancock denied accusations of scaremongering and told BBC radio the analysis is a cautious assessment. A cabinet minister accused the nations top civil servant of an unconstitutional act today as David Camerons government plunged into civil war over Europe. Employment minister Priti Patel launched the astonishing attack on Cabinet Secretary Sir Jeremy Heywood as ministers protested they were being kept in the dark about secretive propaganda operations being drawn up by officials within their own departments. The row erupted as the Government published a 28-page dossier on its claims that Britain would face economic chaos, putting jobs at risk, if the country votes to leave the European Union on June 23. A second Eurosceptic Cabinet minister, Commons leader Chris Grayling, warned of a relentless campaign of fear being waged to frighten people against voting for a Brexit. Senior ministers who oppose EU membership have been banned from seeing some official papers and barred from asking their own officials to brief them on the costs and benefits of Europe. But they say that leaves them incapable of performing their official duty of acting on behalf of the Queen and being responsible to Parliament for everything done in their name. Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith has been angered by being stopped from commissioning research from within his own department to make clear the benefits of leaving. Ms Patel said: It is important that the civil service maintains impartiality during the EU referendum. Jeremy Heywoods unconstitutional act threatens the reputation of the civil service. TODO: define component type apester Secretaries of State are responsible for their departments. For an unelected official to prevent them being aware of the information they need for their duties is wrong. But Downing Street hit back, with the Prime Ministers official spokeswoman arguing the Civil Service existed to serve the Government of the day. Ministers like Mr Duncan Smith, she added, who took personal positions, could use officials to check facts but not ask for briefings or research. She said: There have been no complaints raised with the Cabinet Secretary. Mr Grayling broke ranks to accuse the Government of a relentless campaign of fear against Brexit. In its latest shot against the Leave campaign, the Government warned that Britain could be out of the European Union by 2018 with no trade deals to fall back on if the public vote for Brexit. A formal Whitehall study claimed that: British exports to the EU could be hit with punitive tariffs of nearly 30 per cent on confectionery and sugars, and 10 per cent on cars. The City of London would be cast outside the international laws and regulations governing its trade, causing years of uncertainty. Some 53 trade deals would have to be renegotiated, a process taking six to eight years after the UK finally leaves. Access to the huge European single market could be disrupted. A new trade deal would need approval from all EU countries, including seven Belgian parliamentary chambers. No10 also confirmed at least three more studies will be published before the referendum on June 23. Commons committee chair Bernard Jenkin, an ally of Mr Duncan Smith, applied for an Urgent Question in Parliament on the role played by chief civil servant, Sir Jeremy, whom Eurosceptics blame for mobilising Whitehall against them. L ouise Rennison, the author of teenage hit Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging, has died, according to her publisher. Ms Rennison, who was in her 60s, wrote numerous books about the life of character Georgia Nicholson, which were hugely popular among teenage girls. The first book in the series, Angus, Thongs and Full-Frontal Snogging, was later made into a hit film in 2008. HarperCollins confirmed Ms Rennisons death in a series of tweets on Monday evening. The publisher said: It is with huge sadness that we can confirm the death of our much loved author and friend, Louise Rennison. In life, as in her writing, she brought joy and laughter. Our thoughts are with her family, friends and the readers whose lives she touched. Ann-Janine Murtagh, executive publisher at HarperCollins, told The Bookseller: Publishing Louise was a joy. She was beautiful to know and saw the funny in everything. Bold, brave, irreverent and wise, she leaves us with a million happy memories and a legacy of laughter with her wonderful books. Other popular authors have paid tribute to Ms Rennison on social media. Holly Smale, author of the Geek Girl series, said: So, so sad to hear about Louise Rennison. Such a wonderful, talented and funny writer. Love to her family. Philip Pullman, author of His Dark Materials, wrote: I'm shocked and saddened to hear of the death of Louise Rennison, far too young. And John Green, who wrote The Fault In Our Stars, added: Very sad to hear that the great YA writer Louise Rennison has died. P olice are investigating claims a serving woman police officer had sex on a city centre bar's balcony during a reunion bash. Greater Manchester Police (GMP) says its Professional Standards Branch is looking into claims that the woman had sex with a former officer at the Rain Bar on February 12. An alleged witness told the Manchester Evening News it happened on the balcony of an upstairs room hired for the private function. He said: "It was seen by a large number of people. One group had a look and then another. People could not believe what they were seeing. A police spokesman said: "Officers are carrying out an assessment, which includes speaking to bar staff and people present at the event as well as viewing CCTV footage, to establish if anything occurred that would require further investigation. While there is no evidence of this incident occurring at this stage, we would encourage anyone who witnessed anything that could be relevant to call Professional Standards." We expect our officers and staff to uphold the highest professional and personal standards, even when off duty, and if this incident is proved to have happened it would be completely unacceptable." A school has defended its decision to contact police after a teenage pupil looked at a Ukip website and watched an English Defence League video in class. Staff at Wildern School in Hedge End, Southampton called 101 for advice after the 15-year-old boy visited the website during a lesson. An officer from Hampshire Police visited the school and spoke to the schoolboy and his father but no further action was taken. Headteacher Marie-Louise Litton said the school had acted out of concern for the students safety but insisted that the decision to send an officer was made by police. She said: "Following an incident in class where the student was viewing a range of different sites, we called 101 for advice and were referred to a specialist team. I wish to make it absolutely clear that the decision to pursue the matter further was not made by the school. A Hampshire Police spokesman said: "The school contacted us in good faith and in complete accordance with their safeguarding procedures. "We have a duty to respond to these concerns and we spoke to the pupil and his father informally about comments and internet usage at school. No issues were identified and the matter is closed." TODO: define component type apester The boy's father said the response by the school and the police made him feel "like a terrorist". He told the BBC: "If my son had been accessing these websites on a regular basis then maybe there would be cause for concern. But it's a one-off incident and I don't think it merited such an extreme section of the police coming in." T housands of people are backing calls for February 29 to be made a bank holiday - after complaining they were working for free on Monday. A petition on Parliament.uk has rapidly amassed more than 10,000 signatures in support of making the day a public holiday in four years' time. Daniel Belfield, who set up the petition, claimed UK workers were effectively losing an average of 113 by working one more day in February during a leap year. He said: The average salary is 26500 - 113 per day over 233 working days. In a leap year, this rises to 234 working days. Therefore, the average salaried employee is losing out on 113 during a leap year as the additional days work is unpaid. The additional day should be substituted with a public holiday. His petition will be considered for a debate in Parliament should it reach 100,000 signatures. TODO: define component type apester Many took to social media to express their support, with one tweeter posting: Who in the UK wants an extra bank holiday even if only every four years? I do! Richard McKenzie wrote on Facebook: Please sign this petition to get an extra bank holiday during a leap year as everyone on a salary has worked today for free. And another tweeter, Tom Harris, posted: Finally a petition that can unite us all." A London journalist who brought the plight of schoolgirls captured by terror group Boko Haram in Nigeria to a global audience today described the kidnappings as a turning point for news coverage of Africa. CNNS Nima Elbagir, 37, a Sudanese Muslim who lives in Clapham, won an award last week for specialist reporting from the Royal Television Society. Her dispatches from Africa also include a six-month investigation into people-smuggling from the Nile delta in fishing boats to Rome, undercover reporting of children for sale in Nigeria, and the Ebola crisis in Liberia. She credits her background she is a Sunni Muslim who was raised between Sudan and the UK by her newspaper-owning father and publisher mother with allowing her to win the trust of people who would normally shy away from interviews. Ms Elbagir told the Standard: There is a truism people dont care about Africa stories but Chibok proved people really care. But I was blown away by the response. They were schoolgirls people could see their sisters and daughters in these girls. People felt so strongly about them. They cared about this unpronounceable place. That heartened me. People got it and care more than perhaps we gave them credit for in the past. I think it was a really important turning point. Wed grown used to thinking African stories need to have a British holidaymaker involved or aid worker but there wasnt any of that. The London School of Economics graduate grew up in war-torn Sudan, with her family spending two periods in exile in England. Her reports have drawn comparisons with veteran correspondent Christiane Amanpour, who shot to fame covering the Balkans in the Eighties. In her role as international correspondent for CNN, the Arabic-speaking journalist travels to the most dangerous places on earth. She said: It is easier to tell a story to someone who looks like you or can understand where you are coming from. I take my hat off to colleagues who go to these places and stand out a mile. There is an edge to being from the region and being able to tell the story in a first person way. She added that there is a sisterhood on the frontline with female journalists helping each other out with supplies such as toenail clippers and hair pins. T en children at a Chinese primary school have been slashed by a knifeman who attacked them before killing himself, police confirmed. Media reports said two were seriously hurt in the attack in the city of Haikou on Monday, but none suffered life-threatening injuries. An official at Haikou's Longhu police station said the case was under investigation. Knife attacks against schoolchildren have become dropped in recent years after Chinese schools were hit by a spate of stabbings roughly five years ago. The attacks, carried out mostly by perpetrators with mental health issues, sparked outrage among Chinese parents who demanded enhanced security at schools. In one of the deadliest cases, a 42-year-old man killed eight children at an elementary school in Fujian province in 2010. Additional reporting by PA H undreds of riot police today began moving into the Calais Jungle as UK-bound immigrants were told to get out of the huge refugee camp. The move follows a court order last week that gave the French authorities the legal right to destroy the south side of the sprawling shanty town. Officers used megaphones to say Please evacuate the area, but migrants asked, Where are we meant to go? Yesterday, there were false reports that the area had already been flattened by bulldozers, but none have so far been used on the south side of the camp. Last month, an uninhabited area was cleared of bushes and trees to make it easier for police to spot migrants trying to get on to the main road where they had been stopping lorries. No attempt has yet been made to destroy the south side of the camp, said a police officer, as 55 police vans moved into place. We are here today to try and get those living in the south side of the camp to move on. The vans contained hundreds of CRS personnel, the elite security force that deal with urban disturbances. Many carried riot shields and tear gas canisters, as well as weapons including pistols and rifles. Our orders are to disperse people peacefully, said the officer. We are doing everything possible to keep the situation peaceful. Kazim Lahr, 22, an Afghan refugee, said: The number of police is astonishing We have been told to get out of the south side of the camp, which is where all our homes and restaurants are. We have nowhere else to go. There are more than 3,000 people from war-torn countries living on the south side of the camp. Some have been offered accommodation in converted shipping container units in the north side, but there are not enough to go round. O ne of the Popes top advisers today admitted the Catholic Church made enormous mistakes in allowing thousands of children to be raped and molested by priests over centuries. Australian cardinal George Pells comments came as he gave evidence at an extraordinary public hearing of an Australian investigative commission just a few streets from the Vatican. Cardinal Pell spoke via video link from a Rome hotel to the royal commission sitting in Sydney. In the front row of the conference room were two dozen Australian abuse survivors and their companions who had wanted to be present when Cardinal Pell gave evidence. The lead counsel assisting the commission, Gail Furness, questioned Cardinal Pell about Vatican efforts to address the scandal as well as his own past in Australia, including how he dealt with abuse allegations as a priest, educator and adviser to former Ballarat bishop Ronald Mulkearns. Cardinal Pell said: Im not here to defend the indefensible. The church has made enormous mistakes and is working to remedy those. He said the church had mucked things up and let people down and for too long had dismissed credible abuse allegations in absolutely scandalous circumstances. He described Bishop Mulkearnss handling of Australias most notorious paedophile priest, Gerald Ridsdale, as a catastrophe for the church and suggested that he would be a candidate for a proposed Vatican tribunal to hear the cases of negligent bishops. But the cardinal also acknowledged that he too had made mistakes in often believing the priests over people who alleged abuse. I must say in those days, if a priest denied such activity, I was very strongly inclined to accept the denial, he said. It is the third time that the cardinal, Pope Franciss top financial adviser, has given evidence about the sex abuse scandal, but the latest round has generated intense attention as it is taking place a short walk from the Vatican. Media from Australia, the US, Italy, and Britain were in the conference room along with Rome-based priests and members of the Catholic community. The commission, which is more than halfway through a 217 million government-authorised probe into how all Australian institutions dealt with abuse, agreed to let Cardinal Pell speak from Rome because he was too ill to travel home. Ballarat, a deeply Catholic town in Victoria state, has been devastated by disclosures about the huge number of abuse victims, scores of whom have killed themselves. More than 40 people including victims gathered at Ballarat town hall to watch Cardinal Pells evidence on three TV screens. Gerald Ridsdale is in jail after being convicted of multiple abuse charges. His nephew, David Ridsdale, who was abused for four years by his uncle, said that survivors merely wanted Cardinal Pell to stand up and take responsibility on behalf of the church for what transpired in his home town. Were here to seek the truth. Were here to heal our city, Mr Ridsdale said. We have the highest suicide rate among men in Australia. We have some of the worst drinking and violence problems. And it all stems from that abuse. R iot police have fired tear gas at refugees in the camp in Calais as workers started demolition of migrants' shelters. A heavy police presence has been deployed at the site after it was reported stones were thrown at some workers as they tore down temporary buildings and structures. Some tents were even set on fire in protest at the work to clear the area. Bulldozers moved on to the site following a ruling by a judge last Thursday that part of the Jungle can be razed to the ground. Police response: French riot police react to a protest by migrants against the partial dismantlement of the camp / REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol Aid workers said police arrived at the camp at dawn and told migrants to leave the area or they faced being arrested. French authorities have been condemned for the so-called heavy-handed response after it emerged water cannon had also been sent to the site. Tanya Freedman, of Help Refugees, said: "We're very disappointed because the French interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve insisted in a public statement that the clearance would be done in a humane fashion. "On the first major day of dismantling, this is the way they are going about things." Regional Prefect Fabienne Buccio said the police presence was needed because "extremists" could try to intimidate migrants into turning down housing offers or buses to reception centres. Authorities in France say up to 1,000 people are being removed from the camp but charities and aid groups have warned the figure is more than 3,000. Unrest: A youth throws a stone as smoke and flames rise from a burning makeshift shelter / REUTERS/Pascal Rossignol On Thursday a judge upheld a government order to evict migrants living in the southern part of the camp, although a few makeshift buildings of social importance such as a school and a theatre are to remain untouched. Authorities have offered to relocate migrants into heated containers installed nearby, or at centers around France where they can decide whether to apply for asylum. C hris Rock used his opening monologue to address the #OscarsSoWhite controversy after no non-white actors were nominated in the main categories by adding in black actors and actresses to this years Best Picture nominations. Rock, 51, sought the help of Whoopi Goldberg, Leslie Jones and Tracy Morgan to add diversity to films including The Danish Girl and The Revenant. Goldberg who recently spoke out against the alleged bias jumped into Joy to mock Jennifer Lawrence joking maybe one day theyll make a movie about a skinny white lady who made a mop while a black girl would have to invent the cure for cancer before they gave her a TV movie. But hey, Im not mad. Saturday Night Lives Jones replaced the grizzly bear as she attacked Leonardo DiCaprio in The Revenant. As she flung the actor about she screamed: There are no black actresses in this movie! Her SNL co-star Morgan donned a dress and ate a Danish pastry as he entered Tom Hoopers The Danish Girl as a "black thespian". The skit ended with Rock taking on Matt Damons role as Mark Watney in The Martian as he begged to be brought back to Earth. But Kristen Wigg and Jeff Daniels concluded that "spending 2500 white dollars to save one black astronaut" would be a bad PR move. Rock dubbed the ceremony the "White People's Choice Awards," as he tackled the Oscars race row head on. As well as mocking the Academy he also mocked those who boycotted this year's event. The Oscars 2016 1 /49 The Oscars 2016 Mark Rylance, winner of the award for best actor in a supporting role for 'Bridge of Spies', Brie Larson, winner of the award for best actress in a leading role for 'Room', Leonardo DiCaprio, winner of the award for best actor in a leading role for iThe Revenanti, and Alicia Vikander, winner of the award for best actress in a supporting role for iThe Danish Girli pose in the press room at the Oscars Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Actress Julianne Moore presents the Oscar to Actor Leonardo DiCaprio for Best Actor in The Revenant on stage at the 88th Oscars AFP/Getty Images Kate Winslet reacts when Leonardo Di Caprio finally wins his first Oscar for his role in The Revenant ABC Alicia Vikander (R), winner for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "The Danish Girl", talks with Brie Larson, winner of the Oscar for Best Actress for her role in 'Room' Mario Anzuoni/Reuters BB-8, R2-D2 and C-3PO from 'Star Wars' appear onstage during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre Kevin Winter/Getty Images ABC Actress Brie Larson (L) accepts the Best Actress award for 'Room' from actor Eddie Redmayne during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre Kevin Winter/Getty Images Kate Winslet, nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Steve Jobs," and Leonardo DiCaprio, nominated for Best Actor for his role in "The Revenant," arrive at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California Lucy Nicholson/Reuters Girl Scouts sell girl scout cookies to Steven Spielberg and Sam Smith among the stars in the audience Rex Hannah Redmayne and actor Eddie Redmayne attend the 88th Annual Academy Awards Christopher Polk/Getty Images Laszlo Nemes looks on as Brie Larson, left, takes a photograph of Emmanuel Lubezki, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Alejandro G. Inarritu on stage at the concussion of the show at the Oscars on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles Emily Blunt and Charlize Theron arrive at the Oscars Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Lady Gaga runs offstage after singing her Oscar-nominated song "Til It Happens to You" at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Tom McCarthy and Josh Singer pose with the award for best original screenplay for 'Spotligh' in the press room at the Oscars Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Mark Rylance accepts the award for best actor in a supporting role for 'Bridge of Spies' at the Oscars Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) Host Chris Rock brings out apple boxes for young presenters Jacob Tremblay (L) and Abraham Attah to reach the microphone at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood Mario Anzuoni /Reuters Alicia Vikander accepts the Best Supporting Actress award for 'The Danish Girl' onstage during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre Sacha Baron Cohen and Olivia Wilde present the clip for for the Oscar nominated film "Room" at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Daisy Ridley attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Christopher Polk/Getty Images Sam Smith and Jimmy Napes accept the Oscar for Best Song for "Writing's on the Wall" from the movie "Spectre" at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu accepts his award for Best Director in The Revenant on stage at the 88th Oscars AFP/Getty Images Actors Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber attend the 88th Annual Academy Awards Brie Larsen, dress detail, attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Actor Sylvester Stallon and Jennifer Flavin attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet attend the 88th Annual Academy Awards Margot Robbie attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Jennifer Lawrence attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Charlize Theron attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Emily Blunt attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Cate Blanchett attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Whoopi Goldberg attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Rooney Mara attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Alicia Vikander attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Kerry Washington attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Heidi Klum arrives at the Oscars Actress Rachel McAdams attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Follow @StandardShowbiz for more Oscars 2016 news. L eonardo DiCaprio has finally claimed his first Oscar in a night which saw a range of top gongs go to British stars. The Revenant star was named Best Actor for his role in the survival epic, which also picked up the award for Best Director Alejandro G. Inarritu. Winning the coveted prize for the second year in a row, Inarritu told the crowd: I can't believe this is happening." Brie Larson continued her sterling awards season by winning Best Actress Oscar for her performance in kidnapped drama Room, while Spotlight beat The Revenant to be named Best Picture. The Oscars 2016 1 /49 The Oscars 2016 Mark Rylance, winner of the award for best actor in a supporting role for 'Bridge of Spies', Brie Larson, winner of the award for best actress in a leading role for 'Room', Leonardo DiCaprio, winner of the award for best actor in a leading role for iThe Revenanti, and Alicia Vikander, winner of the award for best actress in a supporting role for iThe Danish Girli pose in the press room at the Oscars Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Actress Julianne Moore presents the Oscar to Actor Leonardo DiCaprio for Best Actor in The Revenant on stage at the 88th Oscars AFP/Getty Images Kate Winslet reacts when Leonardo Di Caprio finally wins his first Oscar for his role in The Revenant ABC Alicia Vikander (R), winner for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "The Danish Girl", talks with Brie Larson, winner of the Oscar for Best Actress for her role in 'Room' Mario Anzuoni/Reuters BB-8, R2-D2 and C-3PO from 'Star Wars' appear onstage during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre Kevin Winter/Getty Images ABC Actress Brie Larson (L) accepts the Best Actress award for 'Room' from actor Eddie Redmayne during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre Kevin Winter/Getty Images Kate Winslet, nominated for Best Supporting Actress for her role in "Steve Jobs," and Leonardo DiCaprio, nominated for Best Actor for his role in "The Revenant," arrive at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California Lucy Nicholson/Reuters Girl Scouts sell girl scout cookies to Steven Spielberg and Sam Smith among the stars in the audience Rex Hannah Redmayne and actor Eddie Redmayne attend the 88th Annual Academy Awards Christopher Polk/Getty Images Laszlo Nemes looks on as Brie Larson, left, takes a photograph of Emmanuel Lubezki, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Alejandro G. Inarritu on stage at the concussion of the show at the Oscars on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles Emily Blunt and Charlize Theron arrive at the Oscars Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Lady Gaga runs offstage after singing her Oscar-nominated song "Til It Happens to You" at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Tom McCarthy and Josh Singer pose with the award for best original screenplay for 'Spotligh' in the press room at the Oscars Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP Mark Rylance accepts the award for best actor in a supporting role for 'Bridge of Spies' at the Oscars Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) Host Chris Rock brings out apple boxes for young presenters Jacob Tremblay (L) and Abraham Attah to reach the microphone at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood Mario Anzuoni /Reuters Alicia Vikander accepts the Best Supporting Actress award for 'The Danish Girl' onstage during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre Sacha Baron Cohen and Olivia Wilde present the clip for for the Oscar nominated film "Room" at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Daisy Ridley attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Christopher Polk/Getty Images Sam Smith and Jimmy Napes accept the Oscar for Best Song for "Writing's on the Wall" from the movie "Spectre" at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California Mario Anzuoni/Reuters Director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu accepts his award for Best Director in The Revenant on stage at the 88th Oscars AFP/Getty Images Actors Naomi Watts and Liev Schreiber attend the 88th Annual Academy Awards Brie Larsen, dress detail, attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Actor Sylvester Stallon and Jennifer Flavin attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet attend the 88th Annual Academy Awards Margot Robbie attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Jennifer Lawrence attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Charlize Theron attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Emily Blunt attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Cate Blanchett attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Whoopi Goldberg attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Rooney Mara attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Alicia Vikander attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Kerry Washington attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Heidi Klum arrives at the Oscars Actress Rachel McAdams attends the 88th Annual Academy Awards Over in the supporting categories, Alicia Vikander was something of a surprise win for Best Supporting Actress, beating favourite Kate Winslet. Near tears on the podium, she said: Im still trying to remember anything that happened in the last five minutes. Win big: Brie Larson on stage to collect her Best Actress prize / Kevin Winter/Getty Images This is a celebration of film and the people behind it. "Im just honored to be a part of this tonight. Two in a row: Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu wins Best Director for the second consecutive year / AFP/Getty Images British actor Mark Rylance picked up Best Supporting Actor for his role in Bridge of Spies, beating the Golden Globe winner Sylvester Stallone. Reunited: Leanardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet reunite on the red carpet The star made sure to thank his director and co-star Tom Hanks, saying: If you ever asked if acting with Tom Hanks helps [your career] the answer is "yes it does!"' Talking to press back stage he said of Chris Rock: I think African American actors are in a stronger position now thanks to what Chris Rock has done tonight." Mad Max: Fury Road was another big winner on the night, picking up awards in categories including Film Editing and Makeup and Hair Styling. Other British wins included Amy picked up the award for Best Documentary and Sam Smith winning the prize for Best Original Sony for Spectre theme The Writings On The Wall. 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To help you find what you are looking for: Enter Search Term(s): Still cant find what youre looking for? Send us a message using our contact us form. To report a broken link or other problems with the website, please include the URL. Thank you for visiting state.gov. In January this year, China s export volumes of steel bars, angles/channels, wire rods and steel plates amounted to 4.16 million mt, 440,000 mt, 200,000 mt, and 3.94 million mt, up 14.1 percent, down 6.5 percent, down 3.4 percent, and decreasing by 18.4 percent, respectively, year on year, as announced by Chinese customs. An old colleague of mine called me the other day, and we hashed out the same discussion we have had many times before. It starts with harvest time nearing, a 1,000-point fall in cotton prices over the last month and a hot cup of coffee on an early morning as the DTN screen blinks in the background. Suddenly a grower says, Why cant we just sell straight to the cotton mills and cut everyone else out? Usually, when that question starts, all you have to do is stand back and watch, because ten minutes later, youll have nearly a dozen riled up cotton farmers fuming in the gin, or insurance, office. So what is the answer to this sometimes toxic question? Why dont cotton producers just sell straight to the cotton mills and cut everyone else out? Its just not that simple. Here are ten reasons why: 1. Weather. So you want to supply cotton mills with cotton? First, mills will need a certain amount of supply on hand to keep their mill running. They will probably even want a contract guaranteeing that timely supply. And, depending on what part of the country you are in and how much it has rained (or not rained) or hailed (or not hailed), your supply can vary greatly. I would hate to have contracted and promised to deliver bales that I, or my new grower-run marketing group, simply dont have. 2. Quality. Say you do have the bales, so quantity is not a problem. Well, what about quality? What if you contracted to deliver bales to a mill that produces primarily fine linens? The mill needs 31-3-36 cotton with no remarks or better, and this year was too hot, or too wet, or you harvested too soon, or too late and all you have is bark-filled cotton with a loan value topping out at 51 cents. Or, maybe the opposite happens you have perfect cotton, and the mill only wants lower grades. 3. Timing. Mills do not purchase all of their bales to be consumed for the coming year in a one-shot spree during harvest. They may need, for example, something like 5,000 bales per month all year, every year not 60,000 bales delivered on January 1. And what if their cotton demand changes? The mill that you were delivering 5,000 bales per month to now only wants 3,000 bales per month in their new contract. How quickly can you find another mill with similar quantity/quality specifications that will absorb your new cotton surplus? Conversely, maybe the mill wants 1,000 more bales per month. How quickly can you increase your output by 20 percent, or will you have to go elsewhere to purchase the bales that you must deliver per your contract? 4. Storage. Because of the timing issue, do you have an adequate place to store your cotton while your bales wait to be delivered to the mill? Have you factored in what that storage will cost? Or, do you use a warehouse owned by someone else? If you produce more cotton than the mill needs, are you prepared to store the surplus bales for an indeterminate amount of time, or will you sell the surplus in the open market? 5. Transportation. A great deal of the time, textile mills are not located relatively close to where cotton is produced. Do you know how to get bales to a rail station? Maybe so. But what about the paperwork requirements to get cotton, by rail, to the west coast? Finally, are you capable of following the customs laws and requirements required to ship cotton to China or Turkey or Pakistan? 6. Risk. Clearly, being a cotton supplier to mills involves a lot of risk. What if I dont have enough of the right quality of cotton, and I have to go to the market to make up the difference? I sure hope I didnt contract to supply all of my bales for 75 cents while the market has risen to 90 cents. If I do decide to hedge my price risk, do I use options or futures? Do I have the expertise to manage price risk, quantity risk, timing risk, credit risk, and if delivering internationally political risk and possibly exchange rate risk? 7. Capital/Financial Know How. If cotton suppliers hedge with futures contracts, they obviously go short the market to cover their natural long position. Because of this short futures position, there is a risk of margin calls if prices move higher. What if the market locks limit up multiple days in a row and you are unable to get out of your short position? A cotton buyer once told me that when his company hedges this risk, they keep a cushion of capital sitting in the bank of sometimes nearly 50 cents per pound. If you hedge with option spreads and ladder down as prices fall, can you financially absorb only a 75 percent hedge? Do you have the financial know-how and capital to look at a base price for cotton and correctly subtract your costs for storage, transportation, quality, and an appropriate risk discount to sell your bales at a profit 7,000 miles away? 8. Productivity. At the heart of economics and an increasing standard of living is increasing productivity. Textbooks talk about comparative advantage. But it all really boils down to the fact that when people specialize in what they are best at, wealth is created. Simply put, in the world of business and profit, being incredibly good at one thing is better than being average at many things. Multiple companies competing over the profit to be had in cotton trading and delivery is simply more efficient than other alternatives. And chances are you will not be more efficient than companies that specialize in this business. 9. Expertise. This ability to be more productive boils down to expertise. When companies compete over the profit potential in an industry, they gain an expertise in their business. And, this expertise allows them to be more productive in their business than others are. Just like many cotton buyers know very little about agronomy, soil science, and plant biology, few cotton producers likely have the expertise to discount, buy, transport, and deliver cotton to mills in a profitable way. 10. Headache. Cotton producers dont sell to textile mills because who wants the headache? You already farm. You work hard every day. You love your wife and worry about your kids. You also worry about cotton prices, fuel prices, seed prices, fertilizer prices, land payments, equipment payments, the weather, water, property taxes, the school board, your churchs finances and everything else under the sun. Why would you want to get waist-deep into another business that you have never been part of? I recently spoke with an executive of a large multinational textile company about this topic. I gave him a short outline of the ten points listed here, then posed the question, Why dont cotton growers by-in-large sell directly to textile companies like yours? He said, As far as problems, you listed almost everything I was going to say. We have done this before. As a test of sorts, we have bought cotton on a small scale directly from growers close to one of our plants. We may continue this experiment in the future, but I would probably summarize the entire process as high maintenance work for too little volume. We just get such great service from the merchants and the coops. So, my advice is to forget about discounting, transportation, contract negotiation, price risk, exchange rate risk, quality and quantity risk and international terms of trade. Let the companies that specialize in cotton trade and delivery battle it out over the existing profit in that business. In other words, let the market do its job. Youll be astounded how good it can be. First published by Cotton Grower. European Commissioner for Justice, Consumers and Gender Equality Vera Jourova is expected today in Bucharest on an official visit to meet Romania's Prime Minister Dacian Ciolos, Justice Minister Raluca Pruna, Labour Minister Claudia-Ana Costea, as well as MPs. ''The focus of the meetings will be on several themes that include Romania's progress with judiciary reforms, the justice contributions to the priorities of the European Commission chaired by Juncker, such as the Digital Single Market and the European Security Agenda as well as priority actions related to gender equality,'' reads a press statement posted on the website of the European Commission Representation in Bucharest.Speaker of the Chamber of Deputies Valeriu Zgonea is scheduled to meet Jourova to discuss the Co-operation and Verification Mechanism, under which Romania's judiciary reform is gauged, and justice reform in Romania.Insolvency, recent legislative proposals of the European Commission related to the contracts for the supply of digital content and online and other distance sales of goods contracts will also be discussed, the Chamber of Deputies reports in a press statementJourova is also scheduled to meet chairs and members on the judiciary committees, disciplinary committees, immunity committees and European affairs committees of the Romanian Parliament. She will also attend a roundtable conference with NGOs operating in the area of policies for Roma integration to discuss Romania's experience with implementing a national strategy for the integration of the Roma. AGERPRES The number of Facebook accounts held by Romanian users reached 8.4 million, of which 1.9 million in Bucharest, reveals data processed by the portal Facebrands.ro, the service that monitors the Romanian pages created on the social network. Of the total number of users, 90.61 percent (7.61 million people) have stated their city of residence, and Bucharesters account for the highest chunk of account owners - 24.97 percent of the total, or 1.90 million, followed by Timisoara (300,000 persons, 3.94 percent), Cluj-Napoca (240,040 persons, 3.15 percent) and Iasi (220,000 persons, 2.89 percent).At the opposite end, with the fewest number of users are the towns of Gherla and Husi (11,000 people each, 0.14 percent of the total) and Targu Secuiesc (10,500 persons, 0.14 percent), respectively.According to Facebrands statistics, people in the 25 to 34 age group (28.5 percent) are at the top by the frequency of Facebook accessing. Next are the persons aged between 18 and 24 (22.6 percent), followed by the 35 - 44 age bracket (20.5 percent) and users aged between 45 and 54 (10.8 percent).Men account for 58.82 percent of the total Facebook accounts. By the users' civil status, married people hold the lead (63.12 percent), followed by single persons with 25.25 percent of the total and persons in a relationship (10.22 percent).In the ranking of the most visited Facebook pages of Romanian celebrities, Inna ranks first with 12.07 million fans, followed by the band Akcent (3.64 million fans) and Alexandra Stan (3.46 million fans).Facebrands.ro is the site that monitors the Facebook pages created by people and institutions (companies, NGOs, etc.) and shows the rise in the number of the pages' fans by days and weeks, along with other pages in the same category. AGERPRES Will this be the year that Leonardo DiCaprio finally wins the Oscar for best actor? Thats one of the questions hovering over this years Academy Awards ceremony. But a bigger one is: What will host Chris Rock say about #OscarsSoWhite? Unless youve been stranded on Mars, youve probably heard about the lack of diversity in the acting nominations. Rock is likely to respond not only to the snubbing of actors of color, but to the resulting outrage. And hes also likely to be hilarious. But lets not forget why we watch the ceremony in the first place: To find out whether our favorite movies and movie stars wind up as winners, or also-rans. Our predictions BEST PICTURE Will win: Spotlight. The crusading-reporter flick hits Oscars sweet spot not too lightweight, but not too edgy. And a win for Birdman last year likely rules out The Revenant, from the same director. Should win: The Big Short. A critique of Wall Street skullduggery thats at once hilarious and heartbreaking, the film might be just a bit too political to be endorsed by the Academy. Should have been nominated: Carol. With stellar performances by Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, and imaginative direction by Todd Haynes, a nod for this well-regarded drama should have been a no-brainer. BEST ACTOR Will win: Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant. Even if DiCaprio hadnt given 100 percent to his performance as frontiersman Hugh Glass, the consensus is that hes past due for a win. Should win: DiCaprio. In another year, Matt Damon might have had a lock on this award for his charismatic turn in The Martian. But the wind is at DiCaprios back. Should have been nominated: Michael B. Jordan, Creed. Hes one of the finest young actors on the scene and just what this reboot of the Rocky franchise needed. BEST ACTRESS Will win: Brie Larson, Room. Larson, who was spellbinding as a young woman who finds herself in an impossible situation, appears likely to add an Oscar to her awards collection. Should win: Saoirse Ronan, Brooklyn. Ronan was the calm but fascinating center of a period drama that had all the old-fashioned virtues, and she proved her ability to carry a film. Should have been nominated: Lily Tomlin, Grandma. Its a shame that the Academy overlooked one of last years best performances, from a comedy legend at the top of her game. BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR Will win: Sylvester Stallone, Creed. Its hard to imagine the Academy resisting the temptation to reward Stallone for his surprisingly poignant comeback performance as the beloved Rocky Balboa. Should win: Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies. As a spy with a droll sense of humor, Rylance was among the highlights of one of director Steven Spielbergs best films. Should have been nominated: Emory Cohen, Brooklyn. Cohen was by turns charming and anguished as a man who feared that hed never again see the love of his life. BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS Will win: Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl. In what was actually a lead role, Vikander upstaged her co-star, Eddie Redmayne. Her presence in this category is a case of Oscar politics. Should win: Rachel McAdams, Spotlight. In a true supporting performance, McAdams was terrific as an investigative journalist struggling to find the right balance between zeal and empathy. Should have been nominated: Tessa Thompson, Creed. Thompson transformed what might have been a cliched girlfriend role into a portrait of an artist with dreams and doubts of her own. BEST DIRECTOR Will win: George Miller, Mad Max: Fury Road. This category isnt known for its friendliness to action directors, but the much-lauded Miller may be the exception that proves the rule. Should win: Adam McKay, The Big Short. McKay became famous through a series of silly Will Ferrell comedies, but his latest film demonstrated that hes capable of challenging audiences as well as entertaining them. Should have been nominated: Ryan Coogler, Creed. Coogler, who also deserved a nomination for the brilliant Fruitvale Station (2013), is one of the most talented young filmmakers in America. 88th Annual Academy Awards Where ABC When 7:30 p.m. Sunday Before Red carpet coverage airs on E! beginning at 5 p.m. and on ABC starting at 6. Can I stream it? Not in St. Louis. The Watch ABC app is still available in limited areas. The Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri reports a record haul at its annual fundraiser Thursday night a week after the Archdiocese of St. Louis formally suggested local Girl Scouts troops ought to not be a part of its parishes. The Dessert First event at the Chase Park Plaza in St. Louis netted more than $350,000 from about 500 guests as they enjoyed a variety of elaborate sweets inspired by Girl Scouts cookies, said spokeswoman Aurrice Duke-Rollings. Much of the money was collected during the traditional paddle raise, where individuals publicly pledge cash donations. Donations from the paddle raise more than doubled to $93,000 from $42,000 last year. That $93,000 was then matched by the Berges Family Foundation, which supports regional programs that facilitate cultural engagement, youth empowerment, and preparedness in the fields of science, technology, engineering and math. The event broke all previous fundraising efforts, including in 2012, when the Girl Scouts celebrated its 100th anniversary in St. Louis. The money will be used to support Girl Scouts leadership development programs for girls. The event is traditionally held the last Thursday of February to mark the delivery of Girl Scouts cookies and the opening of special cookie sale booths at supermarkets and other venues around the region. It was planned far in advance of an unexpected announcement by St. Louis Archbishop Robert Carlson questioning the churchs long-standing ties to the girls service organization. Community support has been very affirming, said Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri CEO Bonnie Barczykowski, who lamented the erosion of a 100-year partnership with the Archdiocese of St. Louis. On Feb. 18 Carlson sent a letter to the St. Louis Catholic community calling on parishes to seek alternatives to Girl Scouts, arguing the program and related organizations conflict with Roman Catholic teaching. Though Carlson did not mandate that parishes disband Girl Scouts troops, he called on them to seek alternatives and immediately dissolved the Catholic Committee on Girl Scouts in favor of a Catholic Committee for Girls Formation. We must stop and ask ourselves is Girl Scouts concerned with the total well-being of our young women? Does it do a good job forming the spiritual, emotional, and personal well-being of Catholic girls? Carlson wrote in the letter. The letter took to task the national organizations support of Planned Parenthood and other organizations advocating access to birth control and abortion, and its alliance with feminists such as Gloria Steinem and Betty Friedan. In a question-and-answer page on its website, the Archdiocese also posted about whether it was OK to buy Girl Scout cookies: Each person must act in accord with their conscience, it said. It is also our duty to form our consciences and learn the issues. Girl Scouts of Eastern Missouri leaders said Monday it has received an unusual number of requests from out-of-state residents to purchase cookies. This morning in fact, we received calls from several local businesses offering to host cookie booths in their lobbies, said Barczykowski via an emailed statement. And, weve heard numerous stories of girls running out of particular flavors as a result, weve put in a reorder to ensure Girl Scout Cookies for everyone. Carlsons criticism of the Girl Scouts brought controversial national attention to St. Louis at a time when Girl Scout cookies appear to have star-studded appeal. On Sunday, comedian Chris Rock invited a Los Angeles Girl Scout troop onstage in their uniforms as he hosted the 88th Academy Awards. Though he did not mention the St. Louis controversy, he sent the Scouts out into the crowd to sell their cookies to celebrities, including Kate Winslet, John Legend and Christian Bale. The Scouts sold more than $65,000 in cookies during the live television broadcast. When it comes to houses, Kelly Arnold is a wiz. The in-demand home renovator, decorator and stager says, Im kind of like the Wizard of Oz behind the curtain, pulling levers. She has completed work on 10 area homes in the past four years, has two on the market now, with two more in progress. She buys, remodels and sells homes and furnishings and works for clients. Arnold has no formal training but learns from watching experts and surrounds herself with trusted construction subcontractors. She credits her father for her strong work ethic. Arnolds high-energy wizardry extends to her current home, impressive by any standards. The English Tudor Revival was completed in 1930 for prominent businessman and inventor, Carl Hambuechen, a native of Germany. Designed by the prestigious St. Louis architectural firm of Albert B. Groves Inc. for a private wooded area in west Belleville, the projected cost was $35,000. Many features remain, from the slate roof, oak floors and steel windows to a spectacular spiral staircase that demands a grand entrance. Later owners made changes over almost 90 years. Three finished levels now feature five bedrooms, seven baths and two complete kitchens. A heated saltwater swimming pool, hot tub and terrace offer outdoor fun. Before moving to her current home in 2015, Arnold lived in a midcentury ranch. She had the home for sale and a couple wanted to buy it but needed to sell their two-story home first. Despite not wanting something larger, Arnold went to see theirs. I had to have it, she recalls. A swap ensued, with the homeowners moving in and out of their respective places the same day. It was total chaos, says Arnold. The whole point of my move to this house is that basically it was done; all I had to do was add my personal touches. Decorating is the fun part. She describes her style as very eclectic. Heres my rule of thumb: I find weird things, and if I like something I grab it and find a way to use it. I look at color and scale. In the family room she flanks a sleek fireplace with a pair of ceramic Chinese foo dogs, tops a table with a midcentury white lamp and adds French country accents. She accessorizes on a grand scale with chunky hanging lights, vases, artwork and lamps. Glassware, mirrors and mirrored furniture reflect light and add bling. Arnold balances dark original woodwork with light-colored furnishings and textiles. Walls are neutrals. Textures range from rustic reclaimed wood and metals to granite, burlap and marble. Glamorous bedrooms and baths fill the second floor. The lower level, light and bright, takes a distinctly modern turn with its gray, black and yellow color scheme and mostly contemporary furnishings. Although she loves the house, Arnold is likely to move again. I dont stay anywhere very long. Its almost like an addiction. I like taking something and making it better. And I dont mind moving. Most of the time buyers want the decor and furnishings with the homes, so its pretty much just gathering the things I accumulate most dishes and my personal stuff. Kelly Arnold Home West Belleville Family She has two grown children and three grandchildren. Occupation Arnold is a home renovator, decorator and stager; she recently opened West End Upscale Resale in Belleville, kellyrecond.wix.com/usedfurniture. She also owns TRC Management Inc., providing warehousing and distribution to retail chains. JEFFERSON CITY A state lawmaker took another step Monday to distance himself from a former campaign worker who was booted from the Capitol last week for allegedly sexually harassing college interns. State Rep. Joe Adams, D-University City, filed paperwork with the Missouri Secretary of States office asking to have his name removed as the registered agent for a company formed by political operative David Poger. Adams, who has previously paid Poger to help him raise campaign money, said he has no ties to Pogers consulting company, Public/Private Sector Strategies LLC. I do not currently have, nor have I ever had, any affiliation with this company, and the inclusion of my name as its registered agent was done without my knowledge or consent, Adams wrote in a four-paragraph letter to the secretary of states office dated Monday. Adams, a former University City mayor and candidate for Senate, is among at least five St. Louis-area Democrats who have put Poger on their campaign payrolls dating to the 1990s. Last week, however, the House and Senate obtained a temporary restraining order against Poger, 47, after three interns came forward with allegations of inappropriate behavior. Poger, who could not immediately be reached for comment, is not allowed within 1,000 feet of the Capitol or its grounds. It was not clear why he was in the Capitol during the first month of the Legislature's spring session. Poger is not registered as a lobbyist. Adams initially said Poger worked on his campaigns in the far past, but records show he paid Poger $600 out of his campaign fund as recently as 2014. The Post-Dispatch also found state business records listing Adams as the registered agent of the company Poger formed in December 2015. Adams said the business filing was fraudulent and, in his letter, asked the Secretary of State to sanction the person responsible for including his name on the companys file. The Secretary of States office is aware of the situation, spokesman Stephanie Fleming said Monday. We have received his complaint and our business services division is currently working to process that, Fleming said. "Weve had reports of this kind and take action when we receive complaints, but theyre not common." If the execution is carried out, it too will leave a grieving family, in addition to having lost a little boy who might have survived if he could have gotten to the hospital in time. LONDON MARKET CLOSE: FTSE 100 ends higher; Mordaunt makes UK PM tilt Friday, October 21, 2022 - 17:22 The pound regained some poise on Friday afternoon but remained in precarious territory, after falling below the $1.11 mark in afternoon trade. The pound was quoted at $1.1203 at the close on Friday, down versus $1.1294 at the London equities close on Thursday. It hit an intraday low of $1.1063 not long after midday. Sterling was hurt by continued political uncertainty. Speculation about who will join Penny Mordaunt in throwing their hats in the ring in the race for Number 10 continues. Boris Johnson and Rishi Sunak, one-time neighbours at Number 10 and 11 Downing Street - but now bitter rivals - have pockets of support from Tory MPs. Adding to the pressure on sterling, disappointing UK retail sales data showed a bigger-than-expected decline in September, according to figures from the Office for National Statistics. Retail sales fell 6.9% annually in September, with the decline accelerating from a 5.6% fall in August. It also was worse than FXStreet-cited market consensus, which had expected a fall of just 5%. The pound had initially found some support on Thursday after Liz Truss called an end to her disastrous tenure as prime minister - poking above $1.13 - but has since been dragged lower. The FTSE 100 index closed up 25.82 points, or 0.4%, at 6,969.73 - closing out the week up 1.6%. The FTSE 250 lost 182.38 points, or 1.1%, at 17,206.55, but still managed to gain 1.0% this week, and the AIM All-Share ended down 1.04 points, or 0.1% at 785.40 - but advanced 0.8% over the past five days. The Cboe UK 100 closed up 0.4% at 696.31, the Cboe UK 250 ended down 1.0% at 14,694.15, and the Cboe Small Companies lost 0.3% at 12,240.46. In European equities on Friday, the CAC 40 in Paris lost 0.9%, while the DAX 40 in Frankfurt gave back 0.3%. The Tories have begun to declare their allegiances in the party's second leadership contest of the year as speculation mounts over who will seek to replace Truss at the helm of the party. Supporters of Johnson are backing the former prime minister to make an extraordinary political comeback, while ex-chancellor Sunak and Commons Leader Mordaunt also have the public support of several MPs. Mordaunt become the first to declare her candidacy, with a pledge to re-unite the bitterly divided party. The leader of the House who finished third in the last leadership election said she had been encouraged by the support she had received from fellow Conservative MPs. There has also been no declaration yet from Sunak, who did not answer questions from reporters as he left his home on Friday morning. Whoever does win will face an immediate test, choosing whether to go ahead with the planned Halloween statement setting out how the government intends to get the public finances back on track, Downing Street has said. Work is continuing in Whitehall, led by Chancellor Jeremy Hunt, in preparation for the medium-term fiscal plan to be announced on October 31 along with an updated set of economic forecasts from the Office for Budget Responsibility. However, a Number 10 spokeswoman said it would be up to Liz Truss's successor to decide whether to proceed with that approach and with the same timetable. In London, blue chip miners helped push FTSE 100 higher. Glencore gained 3.6%, Anglo American 3.1%, Antofagasta 2.7%, and Rio Tinto added 1.6%. Retailers, however, were showing weakness after the disappointing UK retail sales data. A profit warning from Adidas did nothing to help the mood either. JD Sports closed down 6.1%, Frasers 4.0%, Burberry 2.2%, and Next shed 2.9%. On Thursday, Adidas lowered annual guidance as it struggles with "deteriorating traffic" in China and high inventory levels. The sports apparel maker said it has needed to turn to "higher clearance activity" to try and shift stock. It lost 9.0% in Frankfurt. Deliveroo gained 3.6%. The London-based online food delivery service said gross transaction values rose 8.3% annually in the third quarter to 1.70 billion from 1.57 billion, though orders fell by 1.1% to 72.8 million from 73.6 million. Deliveroo said the decline in orders was due to a difficult consumer environment. With economic data on Friday showing that UK consumer confidence remains near record lows, this seems unlikely to change anytime soon. InterContinental Hotels gave back 2.2% but reported strong revenue growth in the third quarter to September 30, saying that high global employment levels are boosting occupancy levels. Revenue per available room, or RevPAR, rose 28% year-on-year and now exceeds its pre-pandemic level, being up 2.7% on the third quarter of 2019. In the third quarter of 2022, the average daily rate increased by 13% compared to a year ago and was up 11% on 2019. Chief Financial Officer & Head of Strategy Paul Edgecliffe-Johnson will leave the company in six months time to become CFO of Flutter Entertainment in the first half of 2023. IHG has started the process of finding a new CFO. The euro stood at $0.9802 Friday evening, down against $0.9822 at the close on Thursday. Against the yen, the dollar was trading at JP148.03, compared to JP149.77 late Thursday. The yen was staging a fightback after the open on Wall Street, after nearly hitting JP152 during the Asia session. Stocks in New York opened higher on Friday, with the DJIA up 1.1%, the S&P 500 index up 0.9%, and the Nasdaq Composite was 0.6% higher. Brent oil was quoted at $92.84 a barrel late Friday, down from $93.29 late Thursday. Gold was quoted at $1,643.70 an ounce Friday, up against $1,641.90 from Thursday. In the international economics events calendar next week, Monday will be dominated by a slew of composite PMIs, with Japan overnight followed by Germany, eurozone and the UK in the morning then the US in the afternoon. A quiet Tuesday will be headlined by a US house price index. On Wednesday, there is Chinese GDP, retail sales and industrial production overnight, then on Thursday attention will be on the European Central Bank interest rate decision at 1315 BST. Friday will be headlined by a Bank of Japan rate decision. In the local corporate calendar on Monday, there are half-year results from Dr Martens, while education publishing firm Pearson will issue a third quarter update. Copyright 2022 Alliance News Limited. All Rights Reserved. A couple weeks ago, on February 13, I asked Skip Martin of RoMa Craft Tobac to join me for lunch. We both happened to be in Austin for the weekend (I live in Chicago, he makes his home in Esteli, Nicaragua), and we both happen to enjoy over-eating BBQ. Our get togetherwhich ended up being almost a whole dayafforded me the opportunity to visit RoMa Craft Tobacs new headquarters, as well as gather some interesting information about what many consider to be one of the worlds premier boutique tobacco outfits. So today I figured Id share some highlights from our visit, as well as a few photos. First off, anyone who follows Skip Martin on social media knows he loves to take pictures of his food almost as much as he loves eating. I couldnt resist the opportunity to snap a pic of him taking a picture of our mountain of meat at Stiles Switch, a top-notch BBQ joint he recommended. If you have the opportunity, make sure to stop by. Id especially recommend the beef rib and the jalapeno sausage. After consuming mass quantities of meat, we took a 20-minute drive north to stop by an office park just off US-183. There, Skip and his business partner Mike Rosales are in the process of transforming a former industrial facility into RoMa Craft Tobacs headquarters. This destination is expected to be more than just a location to receive shipments from Fabrica de Tabacos Nica Sueno and fulfill orders. The duo is also outfitting the 4,000-square-foot space with a craft beer bar and other cigar-friendly amenities so they can welcome interested tobacconists (by appointment), display their cigar lineup, and entertain. Nica Sueno, the Esteli factory managed by Martin, is currently manufacturing 1.2 million cigars per year. Most of these cigars are sold to RoMa Craft, which is a separate company. These cigars will arrive in Austin already aged, boxed, and packaged, where they will be housed in a humidified storage room until they are shipped across the country. Work at the headquarters is still underway, yet its certainly a welcoming space to enjoy a cigar or two right nowespecially if Martin shares a little of his extensive craft beer collection (I think he said he had over 2,000 bottles on site). We had cigars at this conference table while sampling a few fine beers. Speaking of beer, Skip assured me no visit to Austin would be complete without a stop at Jester King, a brewery about 40 minutes southwest of RoMa Craft. This place was well worth the drive for several reasons. First, the picturesque grounds struck me as more vineyard than brewery (think Texas hill country), with ample outdoor space to enjoy a cigar while taking in the view. Second, Jester Kings lineup of wild ales and spontaneously fermented beers is a joy to taste and learn about. And third, Jester King exchanges its rare beers with many other craft breweries, enabling visitors to purchase hard-to-find beers not only from Jester Kings stock, but from breweries all over the world. While the RoMa Craft headquarters in Austin is not intended for retail or walk-ins, Skip says you should have the chance to check it out at one of the twice-yearly BBQ events he plans to throw starting this summer. These CroMagnon Culture gatheringswhich will feature cigars, BBQ, and craft beerwill be ideal for those who want to learn about cigars without making the trip all the way to Nicaragua. Patrick A photo credit: Stogie Guys Belarus, Russias western neighbor and only ally in East Europe, is ordering at least a dozen new Su-30SM fighter-bombers to replace 37 elderly (1980s vintage) MiG-29 fighters. Belarus tried upgrading the MiG-29s in 2004 but the 13 aircraft that were refurbished demonstrated that it was not worth the effort. Meanwhile in 2013 Belarus decided to retire its Su-27 fighters. It wanted sell them, but there were no buyers. Belarus did not have the cash to refurbish the Su-27s and was not sure that would work any better than it did on the MiG-29s. These Su-27s entered service in the 1980s and not built to fly more than 3,000 hours. This is low for modern jet fighters but typical of Russian combat aircraft. The Belarus Su-27s were worn out. Russia is selling the Su-30SMs to Belarus on very attractive terms. In fact this deal may end up with Belarus actually paying nothing. Belarus is a loyal ally of Russia but very corrupt and going broke. Russia has already donated new anti-aircraft systems to Belarus and based some modern fighters there as well. The problems with Belarus stem from the fact that current leader Alexander Lukashenko has been in charge since 1994, when he consolidated power in the wake of the 1991 dissolution of the Soviet Union. This led to the creation of Belarus. Lukashenko is a Soviet era official, who runs Belarus like the Soviet Union still existed. Belarus is a police state, where elections, and everything else, are manipulated to keep the politicians in power. It's a tricky business, but so far Lukashenko has kept the security forces up to snuff and on his side. He bribes or bullies key officials to keep the country running. Lukashenko has maintained good relations with Russia, getting him cheap fuel supplies and other aid. Lukashenko initially won clean elections as a reformer and clean-government candidate. But he slowly went bad and now is very dependent on Russia. The armed forces of Belarus are still largely armed with Cold War era equipment and that stuff was not built to last. This is especially true for combat aircraft. For example, in 2012 the first 18 Su-30s India received from Russia were retired after a decade of service and a service life of only 4,000 flight hours. In many respects, the Indian made Su-30s, the Su-30MKI, is the most capable version available, due to its Israeli and European electronics and the well trained Indian pilots. The Su-30SM is similar to the Su-30MKI but with all Russian components. The 38 ton SU-30MKI is most similar to the two seat American F-15E fighter-bomber. Even though equipped with Western electronics the aircraft cost less than $40 million each, about half what an equivalent F-15 costs. The Su-30MKI can carry more than 8 tons of bombs and hit targets over 1,500 kilometers away. But like all Russian combat aircraft, they are not designed and built to last for decades, like Western aircraft. That is slowly changing and the latest version of the original Su-27; the Su-35S, is good for 6,000 flight hours. Only about 700 Su-27s were produced (mostly between 1984, when it entered service, and the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991), adding Su-30 production (an Su-27 updated) and you have over 1,000 aircraft (including license built ones in China and India). The MiG-29 entered Russian service in 1983. Some 1,600 MiG-29s have been produced so far, with about 900 of them exported. The 22 ton aircraft is roughly comparable to the F-16 but it depends a lot on which version of either aircraft you are talking about. Russia is making a lot of money upgrading MiG-29s. Not just adding new electronics but also making the airframe more robust. The MiG-29 was originally rated at 2,500 total flight hours. At that time (early 80s), Russia expected MiG-29s to fly about a hundred or so hours a year. Didnt work out that way. India, for example, flew them at nearly twice that rate, as did Malaysia. So now Russia is offering to spiff up the airframe so that the aircraft can fly up to 4,000 hours, with more life extension upgrades promised. This won't be easy, as the MiG-29 has a history of unreliability and premature breakdowns (both mechanical and electronic). Western warplanes are built to last longer. The F-16C was originally designed for a service life of 4,000 hours in the air. But advances in engineering, materials, and maintenance techniques have extended that to over 8,000 hours. Because of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, F-16s sent to these areas will fly over a thousand hours a year more than what they would fly in peacetime. The current planned refurbishment program will extend F-16C flight hours to 10,000 (10K) or more. The U.S. Air Force will refurbish several hundred of its 22 ton F-16 fighters, because their replacement, the 31 ton F-35, is not arriving in time. Its F-16s are old, and by 2016, many will be too old to operate. The average age of existing F-16s is over 20 years, and the average aircraft has over 5,000 flight hours on it. In 2009 the first Block 40 F-16 passed 7,000 hours. In 2008 the first of the earliest model (a Block 25) F-16s passed 7,000 hours. While older F-16s and F-15s are being retired for age, they tend to have at least twice as many flight hours as their Russian counterparts. The violence continues in the north largely because of ancient animosities that are exploited by Islamic terrorist groups. About a third of the population are Bambara but the majority belong to dozens of other tribes, the most prominent being Dogon, Fulani, Malinke, Sarakole, Senufo, ethnic Arabs and Tuareg. Ancient feuds and rivalries are revived using calls to protect Islam from attack or to replace corrupt national leaders. The problem in Africa is that in a multiethnic nation corruption is expected if one tribe takes care of itself at the expense of other tribes. For centuries religion has been used periodically to unite normally antagonistic tribes but that unity never lasts, as was seen in Mali after the 2012 rebellion in the began falling apart within months because blood (ethnic loyalty) was thicker than religion. All this creates a perpetual unrest as ambitious tribal leaders are always ready to use force to unseat the dominant national leaders, or force them to share more of the loot. Arbitration and negotiation works pretty well within a tribe but there are none of those cultural and family connections with other tribes that help make non-violent solutions work. The Islamic terrorist groups are not making a comeback but they are trying to stay visible. Most of the active Islamic terrorists are from AQIM (Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb), the local Ansar Dine and several new (and quite small) Islamic terror groups in central and southern Mali. In addition to trying to stay in the news the Islamic terrorists are less visibly busy raising cash and seeking recruits to organize and carry out many more large scale attacks, especially in the more populous, and more hostile south. While only three percent of the population is Christian Islamic terrorists seek out and threaten or attack Christians. Islamic terrorists believe Islamic scripture compels them to convert, kill or expel all non-Moslems they can reach. This has led to most Christians in north driven from their homes. Extending this form of terror to the south is more difficult because the Christians down there have more powerful allies in the form of family or tribesmen who are Moslem and tolerant. While the tribal and religious violence up north gets most of the headlines, overall Mali is at peace and that has led to economic growth. Food and raw materials production is way up and the GDP is expected to grow by six percent in 2016. That is up from 4.9 percent in 2015 but down from 7.2 percent in 2014. Nearly all that growth is in the south. The thinly populated northern two-thirds of the country has a population of less than two million, out of 16 million for all of Mali. The north was very poor in the best of times, and over a year of Islamic terrorist government halted tourism (a major source of income, especially in the three major cities) and the movement of many goods. The south has always prospered while the north scraped by. But because of the 2012 uprising the north is surviving on charity and continued envy of and anger at the wealthier (and ethnically different) south. February 19, 2016: In the northeast (Menaka) an army checkpoint near the Niger border was attacked. Two soldiers were killed, one was wounded and two are missing. A car was also stolen. Islamic terrorists are suspected. February 12, 2016: In the north (outside Timbuktu) Islamic terrorists attacked a checkpoint killing three soldiers. Elsewhere in the north (near Kidal) AQIM Islamic terrorists attacked a military base killing six peacekeepers. This attack involved a suicide truck bomb, rockets and gunmen. Amira Nature Foods Ltd (NYSE: ANFI) koined hands with MAN Consumer, a wholly owned subsidiary of MAN Investments UAE, to form a strategic alliance for the distribution of Amira products in the United Arab Emirates. The agreement was formalized last week with an official signing ceremony in Dubai at Gulfood 2016, the worlds largest annual food and hospitality trade show. Amira was a gold sponsor for the event which drew approximate 85,000 attendees over a five day period. MAN Consumer, one of the fastest growing distribution companies in the United Arab Emirates, is a wholly owned subsidiary of MAN Investments, which is a part of Mohammed Juma Al Naboodahs private office, a major Emirati conglomerate. With a vision to be the largest FMCG distributor in the UAE and a leading player in the broader MENA region, MAN Consumer presently distributes 30+ brands in the region, spread across diverse set of segments. Amiras Chairman Mr. Karan A. Chanana during the press meet stated, "We are delighted to be working with MAN Consumer to strengthen our brand distribution. This marks an exciting step for Amira in the UAE. We look forward to working with the group to increase our product availability in the region, allowing more Emirates consumers to discover the Amira brand and our excellent range of quality rice." MAN Consumer General Manager Mr.Taranjit Singh stated, Amiras premium aged rice ranges intend to bring delight to consumers, like no other. With our strong distribution strengths, MAN intend to ensure Amiras availability in every single corner of the country and make Amira a household name. MassMutual and MetLife, Inc. (NYSE: MET) have entered into a definitive agreement for the acquisition by MassMutual of MetLife's U.S. Retail advisor force the MetLife Premier Client Group ("MPCG") a retail distribution operation with more than 40 local sales and advisory operations and approximately 4,000 advisors across the country. On February 25, 2016, MassMutual and MetLife previously announced joint discussions around this transaction. This acquisition significantly increases MassMutual's existing Career Agency System of more than 5,600 financial professionals. It also broadens the company's geographic reach and provides more clients access to a holistic set of financial solutions, including life insurance, annuities, disability income insurance and wealth management services. As part of the transaction, MassMutual and MetLife have also agreed to enter into a product development agreement under which MetLife's U.S. Retail business will be the exclusive developer of certain annuity products to be issued by MassMutual. Notably, with this expanded distribution network, MassMutual is further positioned to become the top individual life insurance and whole life insurance provider in the marketplace. This transaction comes after MetLife's previously announced plan to pursue the separation of a substantial portion of its U.S. Retail segment. "This is a milestone event in the 165-year history of MassMutual and will result in the transformative creation of a distribution powerhouse," said Roger Crandall, Chairman, President and CEO of MassMutual. "Most importantly, this unprecedented transaction will position us for stronger future growth by better enabling our company and agents to do what we do best help people secure their future and protect the ones they love." "This combination is a natural strategic and cultural fit for our two companies," said Steven A. Kandarian, MetLife Chairman, President and CEO. "As part of our Accelerating Value strategic initiative, we are evaluating the economic and regulatory environment and directing capital to businesses where we can achieve a clear competitive advantage. This transaction will enable our U.S. Retail business to sharpen its focus on its core strength in product manufacturing while also providing a broader distribution network through the partnership with MassMutual. By decoupling manufacturing from distribution, our U.S. Retail business will be more agile, and both MetLife and the U.S. Retail business can achieve significant cost savings." In addition to MetLife's retail advisor firms, the transaction will encompass certain MetLife employees who support the MetLife Premier Client Group; MetLife's affiliated broker-dealer, MetLife Securities, Inc.; and certain assets associated with the MetLife Premier Client Group, including employee contracts. On a combined basis, MSI and MassMutual's existing broker-dealer, MML Investors Services, LLC, will be among the nation's largest insurance company-owned broker-dealers. Additionally, as part of the agreement, approved MassMutual financial professionals will provide individual life insurance and annuity products through the MetLife PlanSmart Financial Education Series. Michael R. Fanning, Executive Vice President of MassMutual's U.S. Insurance Group, said, "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to combine two teams of experienced financial professionals and significantly expand our geographic reach. Together, we will grow our business opportunities and serve more Americans who desire a comprehensive financial planning approach for their families and businesses." Eric Steigerwalt, Executive Vice President of MetLife's U.S. Retail segment, said, "Over the years, MetLife has refocused its U.S. Retail distribution channel to become one of the most efficient, productive, and sought-after financial services organizations in the industry. With this transaction, our financial services representatives and support staff will continue to connect clients to the best risk and wealth management solutions, and MetLife's products will now have even greater reach through the premier distribution network that this transaction creates." Other Transaction Highlights: Tribune Media Company (NYSE: TRCO) today reported its results for the three months and the year ended December 31, 2015 and announced that the Board of Directors and the Company have initiated a process to explore the full range of strategic and financial alternatives to enhance shareholder value. In addition, the Company announced that on February 24, 2016 the Board of Directors authorized a new stock repurchase program under which the Company may repurchase up to $400 million of its outstanding Class A common stock. The strategic and financial alternatives under consideration include, but are not limited to, the sale or separation of select lines of business or assets, strategic partnerships, programming alliances and return of capital initiatives. The Board of Directors and the Company have retained Moelis & Co. and Guggenheim Securities as financial advisors to assist in this process. Bruce Karsh, Chairman of the Board of Directors, said, "The Board of Directors and management remain focused on maximizing shareholder value. We believe that the value of the portfolio of businesses of Tribune Media is not fully reflected in the stock price and intend to explore ways to unlock value by reviewing strategic alternatives. At the same time, we remain committed to achieving strong operational performance across our businesses." The Company will also continue the previously announced monetization of its real estate portfolio, including the Tribune Tower located in Chicago and the north block of the Los Angeles Times Square property located in Los Angeles. In 2016, the Company has broadened this sales activity to include numerous other properties and has accelerated the monetization of these assets to take advantage of accommodative market conditions, although there can be no assurance that any transactions can be completed in a timely manner, on favorable terms, or at all. The Company has not set a definitive timetable for the completion of its review of alternatives and does not currently intend to make any further disclosures regarding its exploration of alternatives until such time as any definitive agreements may be entered into in the process or as otherwise appropriate or required. In addition, the Company and the Board announced that the Company has entered into new and amended employment agreements with three senior executives. Peter Liguori, the Company's President and Chief Executive Officer, entered into a new two-year employment agreement. The Company named Chandler Bigelow as Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer. The Company also expanded the scope of responsibilities of Tribune Media's General Counsel, Eddie Lazarus, by naming him Chief Strategy Officer. HELSINKI (Reuters) - Finnish unions and employers' groups reached a preliminary deal on labor reform early on Monday, the head of a union confederation said, raising hopes for the end of a long dispute that triggered strikes and protests last year. Talks on the changes, which the center-right government says will boost competitiveness and growth in the struggling economy, went on past midnight, Lauri Lyly, the head of SAK, told Finnish media. The government and individual unions still needed to agree on some details, but "I hope that this could lead to a solution," Lyly said, according to news agency STT. He did not go into details on the deal but the government has said it wants to cut workers' benefits, freeze wages and move away from centralized wage-setting towards more company-level labor deals in the longer term. The Finnish economy grew 0.4 percent last year after three years of contraction, and is expected to perform worse than any other country in the European Union except Greece this year. Finland's problems include high labor costs, a fast-ageing population, a decline in Nokia's former handset business and a recession in neighboring Russia. (Reporting by Jussi Rosendahl; Editing by Andrew Heavens) MOGADISHU (Reuters) - Somalia's al Shabaab Islamist group bombed a busy junction and a nearby restaurant in the town of Baidoa on Sunday, killing at least 30 people, police and the group said. Al Shabaab often carries out such suicide attacks in the capital and elsewhere in its bid to topple Somalia's Western- backed government. The group wants to impose its strict version of Islamic rule in the Horn of Africa nation. "The restaurant and the junction were very busy," Police Major Bilow Nurr told Reuters from Baidoa, which lies about 245 km (152 miles) northwest of Mogadishu. Police Colonel Abdi Osman said the death toll was 30, with 40 others injured. A hospital officials said many of the bodies it received were charred beyond recognition. A police officer said a suicide car bomb blew up at the junction while a second blast - possibly a bomb that had been planted or a suicide bomber - struck the restaurant. "We targeted government officials and forces," al Shabaab's military operation spokesman Sheikh Abdiasis Abu Musab told Reuters, adding there was a police station nearby. Ismail Olad told Reuters the two locations were full of civilians and security forces. "I heard a huge crash at the busy junction and as I ran, I heard another blast at a restaurant ahead of me. The whole place was covered by smoke," he said. The blasts follows a car bomb attack in Mogadishu near a park and hotel on Friday that killed 14 people, police said. He said three militants from the al Shabaab group were also killed. (Reporting by Abdi Sheikh and Feisal Omar in Mogadishu; Writing by Edmund Blair; Editing by Ralph Boulton and Michael Perry) In November, Dr Ranginui Walker was interviewed on the phone from his home in Mt Eden, Auckland as one of Sunday magazine's 25 most influential New Zealanders over 75. As a member of the Waitangi Tribunal, he was working on the Ngapuhi settlement case at the time. Below is an edited version of that conversation. Walker died on Monday aged 83. What's the benefit of being your age in your line of work? The benefits? Wisdom. Patience. And knowledge. All those things. And the drawbacks? Well, the drawback of being 83 is I'm not as sharp as I was. My memory blanks for names. I have to search them sometimes a minute, an hour, a day, before I recall a name. I don't have the same energy levels. Once I could work all hours. Now I stop at 5 o'clock. What drives you to keep working? I carry on working because I love my country. I want our country to be the best it can be. The British came to this country with a sense of intellectual, racial, cultural superiority. They looked on the natives an inferior. That's the colonial mentality. They came here with a sense of entitlement. When Maori resisted, they pulled out the guns, the might of the British Empire. We've been given a one-sided history of New Zealand. But all that has been changed because of the work of revisionist historians. READ MORE: Tributes to Ranginui Walker There's a whole lot of revisionist historians who are putting out the correct version of history, and the Waitangi Tribunal is adding to that work. That's what life is about: dealing with truth. And truth is hard to pin down. The state has the power to generate knowledge and truth because it has the resources and it's putting the resources, as meagre as they are, into the tribunal. The tribunal is really uncovering the nasty side of the colonial history, the "scorched earth" policy. Have things really improved for Maori? I have great optimism that things are getting better. In the last quarter century, there's been a tremendous cultural revolution and renaissance of Maori people. That has gathered pace and the state has gone along with it. New Zealand culture is undergoing a tremendous transformation as a consequence of that. I've lived through that, been part of the revolution, the struggle for a place in the sun. We are a much better society now than we were 30, 40 years ago. It's all happening. Were you an ambitious child? As a student at Auckland University I was a very conforming person, conservative views. I came from a farming background. My parents were both National voters. I only aspired to climb the ladder of that social system. I had all those ordinary New Zealand aspirations for success. It was inherent in my nature to do the best I could, to work hard. Last year we had a tribunal hearing at Tipiwai, 30 miles from Whangarei. At lunch, a young girl, bailed me up and said to me, 'Dr Walker, what do I have to do to become famous like you?' My instinctual reply was, there's no secret. It's just hard work. Work hard. That's been my philosophy. Work hard. Whatever job's put in front of me, whatever chance I get, I give it my all. Have your thoughts about colonisation changed as you've gotten older? I've become more aware of colonisation as I've gotten older. As a kid at primary school, 1937, the history book we read was called Our Nation's Story. I grew up in a little valley where my whanau and my hapu and my people were put on a reservation. It was a little world of its own, where traditional values in life continued as before hunting, fishing, gathering. I knew I belonged to this land in the fundamental way. And yet, outside was another world, which I decided I would succeed in. Now I'm better acquainted with colonialism, the attitude of the British, their sense of entitlement as superior beings. They denied natives their humanity. The British were so bloody up themselves; they thought they could pound the Maori into submission with their big guns. But they didn't. Ever since colonisation and the end of the land wars, there has been an unquiet peace in the lands. Pakeha have suffered from pangs of conscience from that bad history. Now the thing is being dealt with through the tribunal. Pakeha want it to come to an end that unquiet feeling that Pakeha have. That unquiet feeling won't change until Pakeha realise the Maori is their social and intellectual equal. Maori are not really angry to Pakeha. That's something [Pakeha] don't understand. Maori are being very philosophical about it and they're trying to reverse what happened. What do you see your role as in that revolution? The front-line troops were the activists, who put their heads on the line. I was doing it at the intellectual level at university. It was a different ball game you have intellectual freedom to do that. It's the right of an academic to be the critic and conscience of society. I embraced that role and tried to educate Pakeha through the Listener columns I wrote. That was an eye-opener for Maori as well. That is the job of an intellectual to try and change society and public perceptions. Teaching is a very important job. I love my teaching. I taught primary school, started with infants, then I taught high school kids, and I loved every level of teaching. I taught teachers training college students and university students and students from all those levels constantly thank me for teaching and informing them, opening their eyes and encouraging them to do likewise. I constantly get letters of thank you. I was working in adult education and the professor asked me to teach Introduction to Maori Society. He would do the pre-treaty stuff and I'd do the post-treaty stuff. I'd read all the history books and literature and I was in the front line as chairman of Auckland District Maori council, a statutory body interfacing with the community and the Government. A lot of the stuff I was teaching was coming straight from the field into my lectures. In the stage one course, at the start, the Pakeha used to get pissed off. You could tell by their questions they were outside their comfort zone. They were angry. It was a picture different from their world view. That didn't last long though. In the end, at the end of the year, at the last lecture, someone would get up, a Pakeha student usually, and complement me on what they'd learned, to a standing ovation. The ramifications of things that you're asked to do as a frontline academic are never-ending. And that's one of the great satisfying things about my life that I didn't have to go into politics to try and change the world. As Archimedes said, 'Give me a lever and a place to stand and I will move the earth. Altogether, independent processors such as Westland Milk Products take about 15 per cent of farmers' milk. The Commerce Commission says if they reach a threshhold of 30 per cent, a new report on competition will be triggered. The Commerce Commission has confirmed its earlier recommendation last year that the dairy industry should continue to be regulated. In releasing its final report, it said there was not enough competition to warrant deregulation. However, it recommends the Government should consider changing the regulations in a way that allows the development of a more open market. The commission said that without the current regulations, Fonterra would be able to increase the price of raw milk it sells to other domestic processors, resulting in higher prices for dairy products in domestic markets. The Government asked the commission to prepare the report, as required under the Dairy Industry Restructuring Act 2001 (DIRA). While it reviews the milk price annually, the commission investigates dairy competition about every five years. The DIRA Act allowed the formation of Fonterra, and includes provisions to promote contestability in New Zealand's farm gate and factory gate dairy markets to ensure their efficient operation. At present Fonterra collects over 80 per cent of New Zealand's milk supply. Deputy chairwoman Sue Begg said that while the costs and benefits of the DIRA Regulation were more or less balanced, the risks of removing it too soon outweighed the risks of it remaining longer than it should. "Increased competition is needed, particularly at the factory gate, and our view is it is better to err on the side of caution before embarking on full deregulation," Begg said. The commission said deregulation could be assisted by developing a factory gate market for non-DIRA milk, and offered three options: reducing DIRA milk entitlements; investigating if and when the DIRA milk price covers Fonterra's opportunity costs; and tightening the terms and conditions for DIRA milk supply. It questioned whether open entry for new dairy farm conversions should be maintained. "Open entry for new conversions contributes little to supporting competition in the farm gate market, while imposing costs on Fonterra," Begg said. The next report on competition will be triggered when and if independent processors gain 30 per cent of market share, or in 2021-22. The final report has now been provided to the Minister for Primary Industries, whichhas 90 days to respond to its recommendations. Tony McLaughlin cleaning out his rental property in Parklands, after evicting serial rent dodger Anna-Ria Melroy. Landlords are dismayed by the ongoing antics of serial rent dodger Anna-Ria Melroy. The behaviour of Melroy, 28, also known as Ann Marie Smith and Anne Marie Fraser Smith, was revealed by Stuff in December. Since 2011, the Christchurch woman has amassed more than $40,000 in rent arrears and bond money owed to several landlords, including Housing New Zealand. KIRK HARGREAVES/FAIRFAX NZ Anna-Ria Melroy, also known as Ann Marie Smith is a serial rent dodger. In the past week, private landlord Tony McLaughlin evicted Melroy from his Parklands property. READ MORE: Serial rent dodger Anna-Ria Melroy sucks in landlords with tale of woe McLaughlin had to clear out possessions left behind by Melroy. She left a dog behind in a sun room. "I believe they left it [the dog] there on purpose as a message," McLaughlin said. A man eventually returned to pick up the dog and "threatened to smash my face in". Melroy - or Anna Smith, as she called herself in a tenancy application to McLaughlin - moved in to the Parklands property on December 18 last year. She told McLaughlin she was a child support support officer for Inland Revenue, a foster carer and that she lost her house in the earthquakes. It is a similar story to one she used with other landlords. At a tenancy tribunal hearing on February 18, Melroy failed to show and was served a notice of eviction and ordered to pay $2000 in rent arrears. Tenants Protection Association manager Helen Gatonyi said she was appalled by Melroy's behaviour. "The evidence is there that she is a serial offender. "It would seem to me she doesn't want to do the right thing. She wants to continue on her merry way, get out of any situation as much she can and then walk away from it and to hell with the people hurt by it. We totally feel for the land lords in this situation." Melroy's actions reinforced the need for landlords to "properly scrutinise" every prospective tenant, and always check their references and run credit checks. "She gives every body a bad name. That's the awfulness about it." Good Girls Property Management director Pru Morrall said there was little else that could be done to stop Melroy when the Tenancy Tribunal was doing its job and the orders against her were online. "We could re-paper an entire house with all her orders," Morrall said. Good Girls Property Management were this week successful in placing two attachment orders on Melroy, which required her to repay two of their clients - who the Good Girls had helped with evicting Melroy - $15 a week in bond and rent arrears. Police said Melroy was subject to an investigation in an un-related fraud case. Melroy was due to appear in court on March 9. Tauhara College principal Keith Buntting is feeling positive about the reaction to no longer using bells at the school. The sound of a school bell is known by most but for the next generation of students at Taupo's Tauhara College it'll become as foreign as dial-up internet. Late last year the college experimented with a "No Bells Friday" which proved so successful that the school has decided to scrap the use of a bell altogether, except for emergencies. Principal Keith Buntting said the idea came from a year 10 student. "Last year when I first arrived at the school I spent much of the first term finding my feet and learning the culture of the school," he said. READ MORE: Rototuna Junior High School opens with 634 foundation students "Part of that involved asking the students what they loved about being here or what they would change." "One of the Year 10 girls made the comment about how there are no bells in the real world and she went on to ask why I think we have bells because there is no workplace or business environment that still uses a siren or bell to break up the working day." The comment really stuck with Buntting and he thought more about it. "The New Zealand curriculum encourages self management and maybe bells in a school are one of those structures we should be looking at and questioning if we still need them?" Buntting said there were a few reservations about students not getting to their classes on time or being where they needed to be but. In fact, having no bells seemed to contribute to a more settled environment, he said. He intended to survey staff and students at the end of the term to see how the move was going. "They will have the opportunity to comment on whether they think we should continue with it." He said the move was small but "symbolic" for the school. "I am hopeful it will lead to further opportunities where we can have some really robust discussions about other structures and processes in our school that contribute to positive learning outcomes for our students that encourage them towards whatever they will need in the future and what structures are there just because they always have been." The communications director of the New Zealand Principals' Federation said the decommission of school bells was not widespread throughout the country with Tauhara College the first they had been made aware of. Although Hamilton's newest school, Rototuna Junior High which opened this year, has started out with no bell. "It's about them making sure they're in the right place at the right time, just like they will have to once they move on beyond secondary school," Principal Fraser Hill said. He said the junior high was far from the first to try the tactic as he remembered it from a school he'd worked in a dozen years ago. The Waikato DHB was one of two organisations made to apologise to a widow. Two health organisations have been forced to apologise to the wife of a man who died in 2012 after a serious breakdown in communication between the organisations. Commissioner Anthony Hill found the Waikato District Health Board and ABI Rehabilitation New Zealand Limited breached the Code of Health and Disability Services Consumers' Rights. In the report, Hill said his findings do not cover the cause of death, but were focused on the lack of communication leading to compromised care once the man left the hospital. When the patient was discharged, his medication was given to his wife but no information about the medication was given to the ABI centre, leading to the man receiving none of his required medication. Four days after arriving at the centre, the 58-year-old man developed chest pain and died. The man had been in an accident in 2012 which left him in a critical condition requiring multiple surgeries. The patient had been recovering well in the hospital but staff considered a transfer to an ABI facility closer to his home. Hospital staff gave him and his wife three syringes of a medication which reduces the risk of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and a prescription for pain medication. The hospital's discharge summary had no information on the man's required medications. He was never checked by a doctor when he arrived at the ABI facility, which Hill noted was not in line with DHB policy. For two days, the man received inadequate pain relief as ABI nursing staff had no information from the hospital. The man died soon after. The commissioner ruled the man's care was compromised because transfer documentation did not contain all the relevant clinical information. Hill gave several recommendations, including requesting both organisations to complete audits and reviews and report back to the commission within three months, as well as written apologies to the man's wife. Hill wrote that he has no doubt the DHB and ABI staff had the patient's best interests in mind when considering the transfer. "However, having undergone a significant trauma, [the man's] transfer from Hospital 1 to ABI, via air ambulance, demanded co-operation and effective communication between all staff to ensure clarity and seamless co-ordination and continuity of services. "That did not occur in [his] case, and he did not continue to receive [medication] at ABI as a result. "Clear communication and accurate documentation form two of the layers of protection that operate to deliver seamless care. "When any one or more of those layers do not operate optimally, there is potential for the patient to be harmed. "There were a number of examples of poor communication and deficient documentation... for which Waikato DHB particularly must bear responsibility." The Abel Tasman beach is now officially in the Crown's name. Gareth Morgan turned down a plea for help from the buy-a-beach campaign at the last minute. A crowdfunding campaign to buy a seven-hectare slice of land in Abel Tasman, including 800 metres of pristine shoreline, raised $2.28 million from everyday New Zealanders. But these donations weren't enough to get the bid over the line, so during more than five days of tender negotiations businesses, philanthropists, including Morgan, and the Government were approached to lend a helping hand. JOHN KIRK-ANDERSON/FAIRFAX NZ Beach campaigners Duane Major and Adma Gard'ner aren't paying much mind to Gareth Morgan's latest dig at the way they got the beach purchase across the line. In the end, the Government chipped in $350,000 and the Joyce Fisher Charitable Trust put in $250,000 to help seal the deal. READ MORE: * What happens next after the people's winning bid for the beach at Awaroa * A short history of New Zealand's mission to buy a beach * 'Millions' of Kiwi beaches, but no spare millions to buy them all * Gareth Morgan clarifies his Abel Tasman beach offer * Campaigners not paying much mind to Morgan's latest claims * Don't be too fast to dismiss Gareth Morgan's cheeky Abel Tasman beach offer In the days following the announcement of the successful bid, philanthropist Gareth Morgan has come out to say he was approached during tender negotiations when the campaign's bid was about $300,000 short. KEVIN STENT/FAIRFAX NZ Morgan said he was asked to donate to the campaign in the final stages of tender negotiations but said no. Morgan has been critical of the campaign from the start. He says the campaign inflated the value of the property and New Zealand paid more than what is was worth. He is also opposed to taxpayer money being used to help buy the land. So when he was approached to help cover the shortfall he said no. However, Morgan did admit to donating "a few dollars" to the campaign like thousands of others. "Let me tell you about my last week. Yes they came to me again, the crowd's funding cheerleaders," Morgan wrote in a blog post. "Last time I heard from them they only had about $1m and they needed a hand up given donations were flagging....Thanks but no thanks. "After the tender closed, the real hustling began. Adele Redmond/Stuff.co.nz An impromptu gathering at the newly-purchased Awaroa Beach in the Abel Tasman has taken place. "This will be news to many who don't realise that winning a tender from our real estate industry merely gives you the right to enter an auction which the agent then conducts between the top tenderers... "Anyway those last hours of ramping from the agent left the Romantics about $300k short. I was asked to stump up again. I was told the Government was in now for a few hundred thousand too." Morgan said the final $2.8m purchase price was "obscene". The purchase settlement date is March 19 but anyone keen to visit the beach before then should go for it, Major says. "Pretty obviously I decided there was no place for rational philanthropy here. During a weak moment, I'd given them a few dollars unconditionally, that was enough," he said. "But as we all know that purchase was not about rational behaviour, it was all about romance, we fell in love with the pretty picture and after that, the madness of crowds took over." Beach campaigner Duane Major said he never spoke directly with Morgan about donating a chunk of money to help clinch the deal but he was aware others backing the project had approached Morgan for help. 1 of 10 The next step is for the Department of Conservation to decide how this beach fits into its national park management plan. 2 of 10 supplied The beach is on the Awaroa Inlet in Abel Tasman. 3 of 10 supplied There are a number of properties located along the beach. 4 of 10 supplied There are a number of properties located along the beach. 5 of 10 A bach is one of the three basic structures along with the Awaroa Inlet in the Abel Tasman. 6 of 10 supplied There are a number of properties located along the beach. 7 of 10 supplied There are a number of properties located along the beach. 8 of 10 supplied There are a number of properties located along the beach. 9 of 10 supplied A Christchurch man started the crowd-funding campaign to buy the private beach and gift it to New Zealand. 10 of 10 Stuff contributed $20,000 to the campaign. Major said he respected Morgan's ideas and opinions but wasn't reading too much into his latest blog post. "I think what he's doing is creating a discussion and I think that's got to be a good thing." Major said Morgan was a "very interesting New Zealander", who believed in conservation and had "strong opinions that he shares". SUPPLIED More than 97 per cent of Kiwis who promised money to help buy the beach have honoured their pl;edges, so far. However, the campaign wasn't just about conservation or access to the land, there was a bigger message about shared ownership, he said. "We're still working things out as a country, aren't we?" Major said campaigners approached a range of different corporations and individuals but any donations had to be "no strings attached" and stay true to the vision and principles behind the campaign. ADELE REDMOND A slice of Awaroa beach - now in public hands. PLEDGES HONOURED Meanwhile, thousands of Kiwis who promised to give money to help buy the beach are staying true to their word. Crowdfunding site Givealittle has completed the first round of credit card draw downs, following the beach campaign's tender being accepted on February 23. JOHN KIRK-ANDERSON/Stuff.co.nz Supporters of the public's purchase of Awaroa Inlet property hold party at Sumner Beach. So far $2.24 million of the $2.28m pledged by Kiwis through Givealittle has been collected, putting the success rate of the draw down at 97.5 per cent. Beach campaigner Duane Major said there was "significant concern" regarding the potential of up to 10 per cent credit card default on the pledges - "which is a whole lot of money and would have involved a range of contingencies which we have been preparing for." "In the price and condition negotiations we backed the the people of NZ to fulfil their commitments and now find that trust has been well placed." Major said he was "stoked" at the high success rate, as was Givealittle. More than 100 people had contacted Givealittle, concerned they might default on their pledge and asking how they can still fulfil it. Givealittle chief giving officer Tom Beyer said this was the largest campaign on the site to date. Once the money changes hands on March 18, the process of incorporating the beach into the National Park will begin. And people contacting the site to make sure they fulfilled their promise was another first, Beyer said. Givealittle had warned Major and fellow campaigner Adam Gard'ner about the potential risks involved with a pledge-style campaign from the start. However, the spirit of the campaign and the constant public updates had helped secure the higher-than-expected success rate of Kiwis honouring their pledges, he said. Major said he was "chuffed" at the honest and giving nature of New Zealanders throughout the campaign. "Well done NZ! Good on you New Zealand for sticking to your commitment." The final crowdfunding figure is expected to be settled by Tuesday, he said. If more money was needed, the campaign could be reopened to give people who missed out the chance to donate. The other option was for the individuals or corporate donors underwriting the agreement to put in more money to make it up to the $2.8m offer. From there, money will be collected from the Government and other sources and put into a trust. This will be handed over to the current owners the night before the settlement date of March 19. From there the process of incorporating the property into the National Park will begin. * Comments on this article have now closed. Stephen Fossi is led from the High Court at the British Virgin Islands where he was found guilty of two counts of manslaughter. A New Zealand boat captain found guilty of the manslaughter of two passengers on a pleasure cruise in the British Virgin Islands has walked free from court. After a lengthy and often emotional trial, Stephen Fossi, 47, was found guilty of two counts of manslaughter this week and fined $90,000 by the High Court in the Caribbean territory. By paying the fine he avoided a two-year prison sentence. The court heard he had been having an affair with one of the victims, whose body was attacked by sharks after the crash. The defendant was accused of crashing the 33-foot vessel Inevitable into rocks early on January 24 last year, killing passengers Kari Anne Way, 27, of the United States, and Howard Anderson, of Jamaica. READ MORE: * Kiwi boat captain accused of 'gross negligence' goes on trial for killing two co-workers on late night booze cruise * Kiwi boat captain charged with manslaughter over Caribbean crash Prosecutor Valston Graham told the court Fossi was under the influence of alcohol and drove the vessel at an unsafe speed, failed to ensure that his passengers were wearing lifejackets, and neglected to turn on the GPS. Graham said Fossi was not the kind of man that jurors should trust, given that he had admitted having an affair with Way and hiding it from his wife. Fossi testified last week, claiming he was unsure how the crash occurred, as he has no memory of the moments leading up to the collision, but adamantly denied being intoxicated. "I wish I could remember what happened," he said. He believes a head injury he sustained in the accident caused memory loss. At the time of the incident Fossi was employed as the director of marine operations for Oil Nut Bay, an exclusive resort community on Virgin Gorda, the third-largest island in the archipelago. . He told the court that on the day of the crash he caught up with some co-workers at the resort at about 6pm, and drove them on the Inevitable to a yacht club where the group spent five hours eating, drinking alcoholic beverages, and playing pool. Shortly after 11pm, they moved on to a bar and cave in Spanish Town, the second-largest town in the territory. Over the course of the evening, he had pizza, fries and a steak sandwich, and drank a vodka soda, two shots and two-and-a-half beers. Fossi said the group eventually re-boarded the Inevitable with the intention of returning to Oil Nut Bay, and acknowledged that he was at the wheel when the boat departed from Spanish Town. However, Fossi said he cannot remember if he remained at the helm, and said there is a possibility he had given the wheel to Way. Mincainton Laurent, who was on board during the crash, testified that he heard Way ask to steer, but said he did not notice if she was permitted to drive. Laurent said the boat crashed into the rocks a few minutes later, and recalled hearing the cries and screams of other passengers. Forensic pathologist Dr Benjamin Mathis, who performed autopsies on Anderson and Way, told jurors that both victims suffered from blunt force injuries. Way's body, which was recovered from the water, showed signs of scavenging by sharks. Defence lawyer Rebecca Trowler argued there was no evidence to prove that Fossi was impaired by alcohol during the incident, or that he was even still driving the vessel when it ran into the rocks, as police failed to collect fingerprints or blood swabs from the scene. The jury, however, ultimately found Fossi guilty of two counts of manslaughter, and Justice Nicola Byer ordered him to pay $45,000 per count by February 29, or serve two years in prison. At sentencing, Justice Byer said she took into account Fossi's previous good character, and that he had cooperated with police and the courts. She said he already suffered from emotional trauma, as the people killed in the incident were his co-workers and friends. Way's mother Kris, who came from Michigan to attend the trial, said hearing the details of the crash was "horrible" but it had been important to represent her daughter, who had four sisters. 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. Actors broke barriers and became symbols of history Sri Lankan- Rwandan play, Dear Children, Sincerely becomes a favourite at the International Theatre Festival in Trivandrum View(s): View(s): The 18th Bharat Rang Mahotsav, International Theatre Festival held in Trivandrum, Kerala from February 9-14 became a paradise for theatre-goers to appreciate plays from different parts of the world. Participating from Sri Lanka was the play Dear Children, Sincerely presented by Stages Theatre Group and directed by Ruwanthie de Chickera. After three successful days in Colombo, Ruwanthie and team headed out to India to perform in Kashmir, New Delhi and Trivandrum. The play, a Sri Lanka- Rwanda collaboration became an instant favourite among the art loving people in Trivandrum when it was presented on the second day of the festival. The most outstanding feature of the play was its international nature. The play is a dramatic presentation of memories of thirty elders interviewed both in Sri Lanka and Rwanda, and their interpretation of incidents, conflicts and way of life. Presented in three parts, it is a collection of personal journeys and, hence, a subjective elucidation of memoirs of a generation. The dramatist was able to juxtapose the history of two countries from two different continents, Asia and Africa through the memories of a generation born in the 1930s. This is different from how we have known history, which is usually through the eyes of a historian. The audience is able to take a journey back through several decades as the play unfolds; a journey that displays the richness of a generation; their pain, their regrets about what they did and did not do right; their innocence and simplicity that prevailed in a society that valued extended families and the related customs. By subtly portraying the nuances of seven decades, the play poignantly tries to connect with the new generation to convey a very strong message; that is to avoid the mistakes of an older generation. This is the most important lesson one takes away from this play; a reminder not to repeat history. It is also a reminder to preserve what has been fought for and won, and not to re-ignite parochialism. Rwanda and Sri Lanka strike a similar chord in recollecting memories of a bloodied past. The elders who were interviewed in two different times and space convey similar pain and loss. The play powerfully portrays how the colonial rulers sowed the seeds of ethnic division among innocent Rwandans in the 1930s by their divide and rule policy. Although the world silently watched the bloodied genocide in Rwanda in the 1990s, it is still debated and researched on, in most post-conflict situations. Needless to say, the audience watched the manipulations of the white man with awe, as it struck a chord with their own colonial past. The plays subtle humour and symbolism enthralled the satire-loving Keralites. When Lankan independence was referred to as a gift in comparison to the prolonged independence struggle that India went through, the applause became deafening. So it was when the play employed humour in portraying how, a Sinhala only language policy excluded the Tamils over time and denied Tamil equal status as an official language. By symbolically placing a bus with drivers who chanted the Sinhala only mantra, the play highlighted one of the most sensitive issues in Sri Lankas protracted conflict; how language divided two ethnic communities. One of the quotes by the elders alluded to the fact, how post-independent Sri Lanka could not continue what the British united, in terms of ethnic harmony. The two youth insurrections in Sri Lanka were witnessed by the audience with utmost silence. The violent portrayal of the disillusionment of a young generation would resonate with any audience, especially Keralites. The burning issue of unemployment is not new to Keralites, where left wing student movements had always been strong although Kerala has not had bloody insurrections like its island neighbour. The second part of the play that dealt with how the generation in the 1930s viewed love, marriage and sex was greeted with loud applause and hearty laughter. Marriage happened between two families the parents decided and the young followed. Privacy was unheard of; but the institution never wavered due to the support of families involved and society. Dowry was common; but it never was a social evil. The third part essentially summed up the bloodbath both countries witnessed; how gradually, but surely, a generation and the society it represented lost their human touch. Violent scenes of truth and haunted memories dominated this concluding section a rare visual treat. Ruwanthi, whose writing has always remained socially significant, has once again displayed her acumen. As the saying in Sanskrit goes, Nadakantham Kavithwam, the craft of a dramatist is revealed at the end of a play. Dear Children, Sincerely, was testimony to this. A play comes alive through its actors and the ensemble. The unique international nature of actors made all the difference in the play. Art has no barriers; no language; only a common thread of artistry and the ability to evoke emotions. This was well spelt out in this play, loud and clear. The actors conquered the stage and the audience by flaunting the flexibility of their bodies and their measured, energetic movements. They became symbols of history, of a generation, whose value is often forgotten; whose memories are not well documented or archived. This play, now adapted in seven other countries, has attempted to fill this gap, which is to be applauded. The mise-en-scene well fitted the mood and message of the play. During the question and answer session a few questions became relevant why the good developments during the seven decades didnt find a place in the play? Why does Sri Lanka, being a Buddhist country witness so much of bloodshed and violence? Memories are subjective, we remember what we choose to; and these are recollections of the elders interviewed; this is their memory and hence very subjective answered Ruwanthie in response to the first question. One of her team members tried to address the second question; Buddhism is not understood in its true spirit by its followers, and that probably justifies. As a member of the audience, I could feel this was discussed by people, leaving the theatre, still relishing the outstanding performance of the evening . My experience and feelings were unique that evening. Born and bred in Trivandrum, after living almost two decades in Colombo, witnessing massive socio-political changes and working in related fields, it was a rare opportunity to watch the dramatic representation of the history of a country, of which I have intrinsically become a part. -Anila S.K. Simplicity in life and art View(s): reflects on the life of Richard Gabriel, a founding member of the 43 Group, who died in Melbourne on February 19, 2016, his 92nd birthday Most artists crave success and recognition as they strive to make their mark on the world, but not so for the Sri Lankan artist Richard Gabriel who died this month in Melbourne, Australia. Gabriel was indifferent to fame and lived a life largely detached from materialism. He believed his life was guided by divine providence and throughout his long career which stretched over 75 years, he avoided publicity, never had a regular dealer, and disliked those who bought his art to speculate on it for profit. Born in Matara on February 19, 1924, Richard was educated at St. Marys Convent, Matara, and St. Peters College, Colombo. From an early age he drew and made models of houses and warships. He liked to watch his mother making pillow-lace and doing crochet work and she was happy to see Richard painting. In early 1941, his elder brother Edmund, who knew the Peries brothers (Lester and Ivan) from schooldays, introduced Richard to Ivan, who was an established artist. For the next year Richard went to Ivans home each week to learn about art which consisted mainly of talks about the history and philosophy of art. When Ivan had nothing more to tell him, he arranged for Richard to meet the painter and teacher Harry Pieris who had taught at Rabindranath Tagores Santiniketan in the 1930s. In an oral history recorded in 2013, Richard described his first meeting with Harry Pieris like this, I first met Harry in his home in Rosmead Place, Colombo 7. It was in the early days of World War 2. His servant opened the door. He was dressed in white and took me upstairs. I was terrified to be in this big house full of lovely antiques, books and art. I was shown into a room and Harry was seated with a book. He spoke softly. He was from a wealthy family but he immediately accepted me without barriers. I showed him a painting I did of an old beggar. After looking at it, he advised me to come back and see him after I had finished my exams. It was the beginning of a lifelong master-pupil relationship. Gabriels entry into the art world began after his work was exhibited at the War Effort Exhibition in Colombo. One of the works was a pastel of a church with people looking up into the sky. The drawing captured a moment on 5 April 1942, Easter Sunday, the day Japan launched an air assault on Colombo. Richard had been attending mass at a church in Dehiwela when the attack started. He came out to see what was going on and the experience of seeing people looking up at the dogfights compelled him to draw it. The next year Richard joined the 43 Group. His entry into the group came through Lionel Wendt who had seen a Gabriel oil painting at Ivans home. The work depicted students digging the ground to plant manioc and sweet potatoes which Richard had painted in WW2 when there was a fear of food shortages. Wendt liked the painting and told Ivan, Thats a nice picture. It is upside down. Well, if it is right side up it should be better. Why not get him into the group too? Hes still studying. That doesnt matter. As a founding member of the 43 Group, Richard came to know the leading artists of the day including Lionel Wendt, Justin Daraniyagala, George Claessen, George Keyt, Aubrey Collette and Geoffrey Beling, but he never forgot Ivan and Harry who did so much for him. He came to regard Harry as a foster-father. The 43 Group did not have a manifesto except for 14 words recorded in the minutes of the inaugural meeting, held at Wendts home on 29 August 1943 which read, Group exists for the furtherance in every way of art in all its branches. The spirit of these few words gave artists freedom and control over their art. Each artist was also free to select their own works for group shows. This suited Richard who found himself in the right group among the best artists, which he also attributed to divine providence. Another influential person in his life was Fr. Peter Pillai OMI. Richard knew him as a student at St Peters College. In 1945, Fr. Pillai invited Richard to teach art at St Josephs College. He had made drawings of Fr. Pillai as a student, but the opportunity came to make a beautiful wood carving of Fr. Pillai. As Richard remembers, One day a student gave me a block of wood. The look and feel of the wood reminded me of Fr. Pillais forehead and it inspired me to carve his head. With his intellectual passion and devotion to the church, Richard also came to regard Fr. Pillai as a divine providence in his life and art. In 1952, having received a grant from the British Council, Richard went to London to study at the Chelsea Art School. However, after a tiff with his teacher, Mr. Scoff, he left the school to study with the French painter Peter de Francia who gave him constructive suggestions and taught him techniques practised by Marc Chagall and other artists in France for preparing a canvas to preserve and extend the life of a painting. Richards paintings were exhibited in the 43 Group shows organised by Ranjit Fernando in the UK, France and at the Venice Biennales in the 1950s. The 43 Group held exhibitions at the Imperial Institute in South Kensington in late 1952, the Petit Palais in Paris in 1953, the Beaux Arts Gallery, and the Heffer Gallery in Cambridge in 1954. After his studies in the UK, Richard returned to Sri Lanka to work as an artist. He held an exhibition at the Italian Embassy in Colombo in 1967, which was organized by the Italian Ambassador, Edoardo Costa Sanseverino di Bisignano. The following year he exhibited his paintings at the Mostra Internationale della Grafia in Florence. In 1980 he joined the Smithsonian Institute travelling exhibition which was sponsored by the New Orleans Museum of Art. In Sri Lanka, his work was frequently exhibited at the Lionel Wendt Gallery and the Sapumal Foundation. The influence and legacy of the 43 Group is indelible and far-reaching. In a talk given in Colombo at an exhibition of paintings by Neville Weereratne and Sybil Keyt, the film director and screenwriter Lester James Peries, described it as more than a revolutionary movementit was in the words of the poet W. H. Auden a climate of opinion [which] changed for us and for generations to come our perception of the landscapes, the seascapes and the people of our island home. Gabriel was an important part of this climate and change. Never one to get caught up in passing fads or the trends and fashions of intellectualism in art, his journey was much more internal and personal. As with his contemporaries in the 43 Group, he was attracted to the environment in Sri Lanka, particularly its rural life, fishing communities and animals, but also the human experience. Influences of Western art traditions were not strong or obvious in his work. He chose to study humans in everyday situations. A family quarrel, a mother and child, conversations on a beach, milking a cow, resting with a bull, a monk giving advice, women gathering paddy, fishing boats, and family portraits, Gabriel captured these with intense colours, simple compositions and perspectives, and with a quiet restraint that did not impose but rather drew a viewer in. He liked to use certain hues of blue, red, brown and white in his paintings, which was related to his perception of light in Sri Lanka or to the clothing worn by men and women. Richard had a natural attraction to the sea and fishing communities and it became an important subject in his work. This attraction came in part because he lived near the sea but also because of Biblical references connected to Jesus Christ and fishermen. He liked to integrate these elements in his paintings, though the narratives were often tied to human experiences as in Solitary Fisherman. This painting shows the shadow of a woman behind a man sitting with his head resting on his arms which raises questions about their relationship. Who is she? Why is she there? It is open to interpetation, but for Richard it was a scene of unrequited love. In 2014, while I was with Richard in his studio, a new oil painting was on his easel. It was a painting of two men enjoying toddy while sitting on a beach in Batticaloa in the moonlight as a child and man behind them gaze up at the moon. The title of the work became Moonshine. Richard told me he had seen it while staying in Batticaloa in the 1960s. The image had lived in his mind for over fifty years before he manifested it on to canvas. The painting, which was acquired by a collector in New Zealand, has a certain hue of blue mixed with green which captures the moonlight at dusk as it reflects back on to the beach. A prolific artist throughout his life, his output consists of paintings, wood carvings, sculptures, etchings, pastels, drawings and sketches. His art can be found in the homes of Sri Lankans all over the world but the exact number of artworks he produced is unknown. Richard did not keep records of the buyers or details of the works he produced and so the documentation of his works from the 1940s to 1980s is fragmentary. It was only after he moved to Australia in 2002 to live with his daughter Rene and son-in-law Hiran Leitan that the task of documenting his output began with meticulous and methodical care. Richard rarely held solo exhibitions, preferring to exhibit his work in group shows. In 2014, a solo exhibition of his work was organized in Kandy by Alliance Francaise. The paintings exhibited were borrowed from the private collection of Shamil and Roshini Peiris. On Good Friday 2015 Richard started his last painting. It was titled Crucifixion and it took Richard almost a year to finish it as he suffered aches and pains in his arms and legs which slowed him down. On 7 February 2016, he suffered a heart attack and was admitted to the Monash Medical Centre in Melbourne. He died 12 days later on his 92nd birthday. Richard will be mourned by many friends, young and old, for he was not only a very fine artist, but also a compassionate and imaginative human being. He married Sita Kulasekera in 1951. She predeceased him in August 2001. He is survived by his son Angelo Don Gabriel and daughter Rene Leitan (nee Gabriel). Science and Innovation Minister Steven Joyce today announced a call for proposals for three multi-institution New Zealand-China Research Collaboration Centres to be supported as part of the new Catalyst Fund international research programme. The Catalyst Fund, worth $9.3 million annually and administered by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment, supports initiatives to strengthen international research collaboration and link New Zealand with world-class research projects, groups and infrastructure. A total of up to $3,750,000 in funding is available for the three Centres over five years. This initiative will strengthen research collaboration with China in three priority areas water research, food safety and security, and non-communicable diseases, Mr Joyce says. International science and innovation connectivity supports the vision of the National Statement of Science Investment, allowing us to continually build on the excellence of our scientific outputs and their potential for impact. China is a priority collaboration partner for New Zealand and these Centres will deliver on a key action identified at the New ZealandChina Joint Commission Meeting on science and technology in April last year. The Centres will coordinate New Zealands engagement with China in these mutually important areas of research. They will build on the existing bilateral programmes leading to more enduring and more impactful collaborations. Source: Office of Steven Joyce. A warm and humid northwest flow affects the North Island, while a cold front moves northwards over central New Zealand today. This cold front weakens and slows as it moves north, and while the temperature change will not be as dramatic in the north as it has been in the south, it will bring an end to the humid conditions in the upper North Island from midweek. Watch the latest severe weather video from the MetService here. A ridge of high pressure builds quickly behind the cold front, meaning settled weather for many places from Wednesday. The humid northwest flow has caused MetService to issue a Severe Weather Warning for heavy rain in parts of Auckland, Coromandel Peninsula and Waikato until 8pm today, with many other regions in the northern half of the North Island on Severe Weather Watch for possible bursts of heavy rain. The southerly change moving up the country is keeping maximum temperatures under twenty degrees for many centres. People will notice the overnight temperatures sink tonight from Manawatu south, with some places in the South Island getting to single digits, says communications meteorologist Lisa Murray. It is timely given that Tauranga is growing so quickly with new people moving into various communities. With Neighbourhood Support comes a sense of building communities, which can only enhance the life of the city, says Adrienne. Nearly 25 per cent of residential and commercial rateable properties in the Tauranga area are linked to a Neighbourhood Support group. Membership is pleasingly high in Papamoa, where about 60 per cent coverage has been achieved. In the Tauranga Central, Matua and Otumoetai area, however, that figure sits at only about 11 per cent. We would like to see areas extend their coverage, says Adrienne. Funding from Legacy Trust is enabling an upgrade of the WBOP Neighbourhood Support website, and the establishment of a Facebook page. Setting up a Facebook page will encourage people to link in and keep each other informed about what is happening in their local community. This will help us in our endeavours to boost membership this year. There is much to be gained, she emphasises. Where we have neighbourhood support groups we see an increase in neighbours talking to each other, looking out for each other when sickness or accidents occur, and sharing information to reduce the risk of burglaries and crime. Neighbourhood Support also reduces a sense of isolation especially for those living alone, and it fosters a sense of community spirit, says Adrienne. Western Bay of Plenty Neighbourhood Support is launching a March campaign with a focus on if you see something, say something. Residents are urged to join, or start, a group through the new website www.wbopns.org.nz or by phoning 0800 22 55 85. Neighbourhood Support works closely with police and many other organisations to reduce crime, improve safety, and prepare people to deal with emergencies and natural disasters. The proposed rules aim to reduce nitrogen loss on land entering the lake. They have been developed with input from Rotorua Lakes Council and Te Arawa Lakes Trust, stakeholders, technical and science experts, and the community through feedback received at public meetings, hui, information sessions. Bay of Plenty Regional Council chairman Doug Leeder says the submission period provides the opportunity for anyone to submit formal feedback on the proposed rules. Submissions close on Friday, April 15. The proposed rules have been under informal consultation for the past two and a half years, signalling a greater focus on engagement and collaboration between the community and regional council. The current proposed rules have been put together from almost 100 research and information reports from staff and independent subject matter experts, community representation groups and engagement, but are by no means final there is still time for the community to continue to have their say. Other components of the integrated framework include engineering initiatives like the Zeolite filter trial at Tikitere, sewerage reticulation, voluntary land use changes and voluntary conversion of gorse. Deed funding of $72 million has been allocated to protect water quality of the four priority lakes under the programme, and this includes $5.5m to support landowners in the Rotorua Catchment through a Land Use Advice and Support service ($2.2m) and a fund for investigating alternative land uses ($3.3m). Significant work has been undertaken in recent years and great progress has been made, all with the focus on striking a balance between the environment, the economy and the needs and desires of our local communities. "These aspects are inextricably linked and the approach developed aims to achieve sustainable outcomes for everyone involved, including landowners and the wider economy. says Doug. Education Minister Hekia Parata has met with the Estonian Education and Research Minister Jurgen Ligi and education experts in Tallinn to learn about the rapid progress Estonia has made in lifting educational achievement. New Zealands education system is recognised around the world as being one of the best, but theres more we can learn from other countries in order to systematically lift achievement, says Ms Parata. Estonia has one of the top-performing education systems in the OECD, ranking 11th in reading and maths and 6th in science among all PISA participating countries and regions. Estonia has successfully driven educational reform, and has seen significant progress in lifting educational achievement. My discussions with Estonias Minister of Education and Research, Jurgen Ligi, and other education leaders were focussed on the policies behind that, and how we can learn from them for New Zealands benefit. Its important to recognise that each countrys education system is unique to its own culture and society, however there are similarities between New Zealand and Estonia in terms of a small population and government approach, so Ive looked at how we can use whats relevant from Estonias experience for New Zealands context. Ms Parata will now travel to Berlin to attend the sixth annual International Summit on the Teaching Profession. Source: Office of Hekia Parata. Seeka Kiwifruit Industries Limited has announced an audited profit after tax of$4.27m, for the year ending December 31, 2015. This is well above its guidance range of between $2.96m and $3.53m. The after tax profit was up 34.8 per cent on the previous years result of $3.17m. Seeka chief executive Michael Franks says the company has proactively taken steps to support its growers following the fire last year at its Te Puke Oakside facility, and subsequent fruit quality issues. Were very pleased to be able to report our third consecutive year of improving results, especially after our challenging year following the fire. The company announced a fully imputed dividend of$0.10 per share, which will be paid on March 24 to all shareholders on the register at 5pm, March 18. That brings the total dividend for the year to $0.19, compared to $0.16 for the previous corresponding period. The companys dividend reinvestment plan will apply to the dividend, with a strike price of$3.76 per share. Financial Highlights for the year include: $142.11m in total revenue, up 22.9 per cent $13.39m EBITDA up 23.4 per cent $5.25m profit before tax up 23.0 per cent $0.29 earnings per share up 31.8 per cent Asset backing at December 31, totalled $4.34, up 6.6 per cent. Total assets at December 3, were$164m, an increaseof50 per cent reflecting Seekas acquisition of Bunbartha Fruit Packers Pty Ltd in Australia. One-off items included $1.12m expensed for transaction and duty costs related to the Australian purchase. They also included a net $0.32m in costs related to the Oakside fire. Seeka paid its growers $4.04m to ensure they had sufficient income and cashflow while they worked through the insurance claim process. Seeka also wrote off$1.74m in fire-impaired assets. The company has also recorded insurance proceeds of$5.46m, resulting in the net $0.32m in fire-related costs during the period. The insurance claim remains in process and any further recovery will be recorded as income when settled. Michael says profitability continues to improve, with Seekas packed volumes increasing to 27.8m trays, compared to21.4 million trays in the previous corresponding period. Seeka has a clear strategy and is focused on delivering superior returns to its growers and continuing to grow the company, both in terms of profitability and size. And we are very appreciative of the hardwork and support of our employees and others associated with the company throughout the year. Seeka chief financial officer Stuart McKinstry says the company is currently positioning itself ahead of the Australian and New Zealand kiwifruit harvests, with the Australian pear harvest nearing completion. Major capital construction builds are underway at KKP in Maketu, Main Road Katikati, and a significant improvement to the fruit grader at the Australian kiwifruit packhouse, he says. Comedian Te Radar has joined the fight to protect New Zealands borders, in a new in-flight biosecurity video aimed at arriving international passengers. Te Radar is the voice of the animated beagle character called Officer Goodboy in the video, which has been translated into seven different languages, including a dubbed-over Chinese version. When was the last time you broke out a coloring book? It might sound childish to think about yourself with a box of crayons or colored pencils in hand, but here's the thing: Coloring books aren't just for kids any more. Adults of all ages are jumping on the coloring book craze, not just because it's a fun way to get creative, but because it actually has health benefits too. It turns out that doing arts and crafts is great for memory care, especially for seniors, and there are several studies that prove this. The latest fad isn't just fun, it's medicine Over the years, research has found that art is a beneficial form of therapy that helps patients with both psychological and physiological healing. Bruce Miller, MD, behavioral neurologist at University of California, San Francisco Medical center told Today's Geriatric Medicine that even though mental functions may slow with age, one's creative abilities do not. A recent study published in Neurology backed this up when it found that art has the power to delay development of memory problems caused by old age. The researchers found that those who practiced art were 73 percent less likely to develop memory impairments. Time Magazine also pointed out that this is a great activity to do with your family, as it could help everyone's mental development. Dr. James Leverenz, director of the Cleveland Center for Brain Health explained this to the source. "There have been a number of studies both in older and somewhat younger individuals suggesting that physical but also mental activity may help prevent development of dementia," says Dr. Leverenz. Overall though, art promotes self expression by allowing seniors to delve into their creative side. Not only does it boost memory, but it also helps seniors relax by giving them a sense of control and identity, said Today's Geriatric Medicine. This control supports a reduction in depression or anxieties that might be clouding aging minds. Plus, when seniors take and engage in art classes, they're more apt to socialize, aiding their self-esteem and gives them something to look forward to. Why stop at coloring books? Really any type of art is good for your brain! There are plenty of ways to enjoy art. You can sign up for a pottery class, paint some still life or take up photography. No matter what, just find something you enjoy, it's the easiest form of memory care you can do. Full name Email Company Position Please select exactly what you would like to receive from us by ticking the boxes below: Weekly SuperyachtNews Bulletin Surveys Events Updates Subscription Offers Advertising Opportunities Virginias Primary Election will be Tuesday, March 1, as part of what is known nationally as Super Tuesday. Local polls will open from 6 a.m. to 7 p.m. for voters to make their choices either Democratic or Republican for the 2016 presidential candidates. Floyd County voters will go to the usual poll sites, with the exception of Little River District voters, who will now vote at Floyd Elementary School (rather than the former location at the Floyd Rescue Squad building). Voters will present a photo ID and will be asked in which primary (Democratic or Republican) they wish to vote. Votes will be cast on paper ballots, as they were in the November 2015 election. Poll sites include: for the Locust Grove District, Check Elementary School; Little River District, Floyd Elementary School; Courthouse District, Floyd County High School; Burks Fork District, Willis Elementary School; and Indian Valley District, Indian Valley Elementary School. (Students will not be attending school that day due to the election; teachers will have a workday.) Other states voting on Super Tuesday include Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado (caucus), Georgia, Massachusetts, Minnesota (caucus), North Dakota (Republican caucus), Oregon, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont and Wyoming (Republican caucus). Absentee voting in person at the Registrars office will continue through Saturday, February 27. The Registrars office will be open on Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Absentee ballots being mailed must be received by 7 p.m. on March 1. The Democrat ballot has three candidates: Hillary Clinton, Martin OMalley, and Bernie Sanders. The Republican ballot has 13 candidates: Marco Rubio, Lindsey Graham, Ben Carson, Rand Paul, Mike Huckabee, Ted Cruz, Donald Trump, Jim Gilmore, Chris Christie, Jeb Bush, Rick Santorum, John Kasich, and Carly Fiorina. Several candidates have already suspended their campaigns. One candidate, Republican Lindsey Graham, has officially withdrawn from the campaign, but all of the original names will remain on the ballot, since the ballots had to be printed 60 days in advance. David Bowie David Bowie is featured on screen during the in memoriam tribute at the Oscars on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (Chris Pizzello | Inivision via The Associated Press) The 2016 Oscars' "In Memoriam" segment paid tribute a number of notable figures in the film industry who died in the last year, but several beloved names were omitted from the list. The 88th Academy Awards highlighted Leonard Nimoy, David Bowie, Alan Rickman and Wes Craven during the segment, while Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl performed Paul McCartney's "Blackbird." Here's a list of everyone who didn't make the cut: E Online notes that while the stars listed above didn't make the telecast of the "In Memoriam" segment, they did appear on The Oscars website "In Memoriam" photo gallery. Watch a video of the televised "In Memoriam" segment from The Hollywood Reporter below. Michael Morris mugshot main.jpg Michael Morris was sentenced to five years in prison and five more on parole after he stole a Syracuse police officer's gun. About a month after his release, he shot six people in a crowded Tipperary Hill bar, police said. (State Department of Corrections) Syracuse, NY -- A Syracuse parolee accused of opening fire in a Tipperary Hill pub last winter threatened to attack his own lawyer and blamed his behavior on an imaginary person named "Doug." That's according to a forensic psychologist, Dr. Thomas Lazzaro, who has twice examined Michael Morris, 23, after Morris's arrest in the Feb. 1, 2015 attack at McAvan's Pub. Injured in the shooting were Lawrence Gabriel, Douglas Spossey, Joshua Kennedy, Rich Lighton, Jake Palmer and Christina Voultsios. Morris is facing two counts of attempted murder and four counts of assault. Morris has sought a defense of insanity for the shooting that could send him to prison for 25 years to life. He was on parole at the time after serving a 5-year prison sentence for stealing a Syracuse police officer's gun. But when Lazzaro first examined Morris for four hours in July, the doctor determined that Morris was not insane when he allegedly opened fire in the pub. Morris did, however, have an explosive anger problem and the ability to manipulate others, among other issues, Lazzaro said. Morris later got a new lawyer in October. That lawyer, Ralph Cognetti, had Morris examined again after Morris apparently threatened him. That examination was to determine whether Morris could understand trial proceedings and assist in his defense. The threats included a comment by Morris that he would "turn (Cognetti's butt) inside out," Lazzaro testified. Morris also blamed an imaginary person named "Doug" for his bad acts since he was 12 years old. By October, Morris's behavior at the jail had deteriorated. He'd been accused of throwing urine and feces at corrections officers, among other things, Lazzaro testified. And when Lazzaro attempted to test Morris again in November, Morris yelled and screamed about "Doug" for 15 minutes until Lazzaro gave up and left. Because Morris was not cooperating with his own lawyer or Lazzaro, the doctor ruled that Morris was not competent to stand trial. Cognetti also read notes from his interview with Morris's mom into the court record Friday. She described her son as a troubled student who was constantly promoted to the next grade despite failing grades and who attacked his sister and at least once ran naked through a city park. Prosecutor Joseph Coolican has suggested during the three-part hearing that Morris is faking, or "malingering," a mental illness to avoid trial. A group of mental health professionals came to a different conclusion than Lazzaro, saying that Morris was competent to stand trial. County Court Thomas J. Miller will ultimately rule as to whether Morris will face trial now. But even if Morris's lawyer convinces the court he isn't competent, Morris will simply be sent to a secure mental hospital until he is deemed ready for trial. At that point, the trial will proceed anyway. Morris remains in jail with no bail. COUNTERFEIT In this 2014 file photo, Marybeth Dellibovi, counterfeit specialist with the Secret Service, demonstrates inspecting a counterfeit $100 bill under a microscope in the counterfeit specimen vault room at the Secret Service headquarters in Washington. (Bloomberg News photo by Andrew Harrer) Auburn, NY - Auburn police and the U.S. Secret Service are looking for a person who is passing counterfeit U.S. $100 bills in Central New York. The bills have been passed in Auburn, Greece, Rochester and Syracuse, police said. There are no known suspects and the investigation is continuing. Police ask that banks, businesses and consumers be on the look out for $100 bills with a serial number of LI65350494A, or any other U.S. currency that appears to be counterfeit. If you receive suspicious or counterfeit currency, police ask that you keep the currency, get a description of the person or persons passing it and contact local police. How do you know a bill is real currency? Compare the questionable bill to a genuine one. Look for the security strip and thread. Look for the watermark. Look for red and blue fibers in the bill. Look for color shifting ink. Lastly, check the bill with a counterfeit pen. The making, possessing or passing of counterfeit currency is a Class C felony under New York State law and carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. Under federal law, the charge carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Police ask that anyone with information call Auburn Police Detective Bryant Bergenstock at 315-258-9880 or 315-253-3231. Callers may remain anonymous. Ryan Lawrence_Horizontal.jpg Mug shot of Ryan Lawrence, 24, of Valley Drive, Syracuse that Syracuse Police Department released on Feb. 23, 2106. (Syracuse Police) Syracuse, NY -- A judge has ordered a mental health exam for Ryan Lawrence who has been accused of killing his 21-month-old daughter, Maddox. City Court Judge Stephen Dougherty's order will mean two doctors will examine whether Lawrence can properly understand the proceedings against him and assist in his own defense, said Onondaga County District Attorney William Fitzpatrick. The case was sent to a grand jury today without an appearance by Lawrence in City Court. Once indicted, his case will proceed in County Court. Even after the court-appointed doctors examine Lawrence, he can be examined again by doctors hired by the prosecution and defense. At some point, a County Court judge will rule whether Lawrence's case can proceed to trial. If Ryan Lawrence is found not to be able to stand trial, he would be sent to a secure hospital until he's able. The next step is an indictment against Lawrence, if a grand jury decides to charge him. Fitzpatrick has said that a grand jury will begin hearing the case this week, and Vavonese confirmed today that he'd been put on notice that grand jury proceedings were beginning. Editor's note: A previous version of this story incorrectly stated that the court order would probe whether Ryan Lawrence had a "mental defect" at the time he's accused of killing his daughter. In fact, the order only pertains to whether he can properly understand the nature of the proceedings against him and assist in his own defense, District Attorney William Fitzpatrick said Kellogg Street Shooting 1.JPG Syracuse police officers investigate at the scene of a shooting Friday that seriously injured two people. (Ken Sturtz | ksturtz@syracuse.com) Alex Rosario Bryan Matos Syracuse, NY -- The mother of two Syracuse shooting victims said in court today that one shooter's brother is threatening her on Facebook. Her 15-year-old son was badly injured and another son, Juan Martinez, 22, was killed in an Aug. 1, 2014 shooting on Kellogg Street. Two different shooters were accused of hitting the two victims in the same incident. Alex Rosario was sentenced today for shooting the 15-year-old. Another man, Bryan Matos, pleaded guilty in connection with the shooting that killed Martinez. Both shooters were sentenced to 10 years in prison. Prosecutors did not seek murder convictions against either of them because there was evidence they were acting in self-defense. Today, the victims' mother said that Rosario's brother had sent her a Facebook message only a half-hour before today's court. Prosecutor Melinda McGunnigle described the brother's words as "basically a threat." "We want to be left alone and have peace," the mother said in court today. "We hope this is the end of this, and we an go our separate ways." She described the shooter's family as "following us, stalking us." McGunnigle and the judge noted that the continuing friction did not bode well for ending the conflict. Judge Walter Hafner Jr. has called the incident "warfare," pointing to the fact up to four guns were used. The two victims were actually the ones to instigated the shootout, the judge has said. The two shooters, Rosario and Matos, were playing cards on a porch when Martinez and his brother approached. Martinez, the homicide victim, pistol-whipped a third person on the porch, leading Rosario and Matos to pull out their guns and fire. Martinez was killed by a bullet from Matos's gun and his 15-year-old brother was shot in the abdomen by Rosario's gun. The shooting was apparently revenge for an earlier incident, McGunnigle said. "The real, sad facts of this case are that we have one individual deceased, one substantially disabled and two going off to prison," the judge noted. "All the court's hearing today is the cycle of violence is going to continue," Hafner continued. "I hope not." mellitsq2.JPG Composer Marc Mellits, right, rehearsing with members of the Dublin Guitar Quartet in Dublin late last year. Mellits new work will have its world premier with the Dublin Guitar Quartet in Syracuse on March 5. (Courtesy Jonathan Chai) SYRACUSE, NY -- Marc Mellits is one of the most often heard modern classical composers in the U.S. today, with more than 700 performances of his works last year. Composer Marc Mellits. The former Syracuse resident has written a new work called Quartet, to be debuted March 5 in Syracuse. His newest composition will have its world premiere performance in Syracuse Saturday, during a concert by the Dublin Guitar Quartet at H.W. Smith Elementary School. (Details below). Mellits' work, simply called Quartet, will be part of an evening that also includes works by such modern composers as Philip Glass and John Tavener. It's the second piece ever commissioned for the Syracuse Friends of Chamber Music, but the first was several decades ago, said that organization's music director, Jonathan Chai. Choosing Mellits as the composer is no accident: He spent 10 years living and writing music in Syracuse, working with the local Society for New Music and sometimes teaching at Le Moyne College. He then moved to Chicago to become a professor of composition and composer-in-residence at the University of Illinois-Chicago. Aside from his excitement at having a new work debut in his former home, Mellits was intrigued by the chance to write a work for guitar. Composing for guitar is a challenge, he said, "because there are lots of things a guitar can do that other instruments can't, and there there are things other instruments can do that a guitar can't." The Dublin Guitar Quartet in performance. Chai approached Mellits about writing a new piece for the Syracuse music organization, and handed him some recordings of the Dublin Guitar Quartet. Mellits was hooked. The quartet -- four guitars making one sound -- inspired him. "I've written for guitar, and the more I write the less I understand," Mellits said. "What's great about the guitar is they make sounds without hammers, or strings or bows. It's jut the fingers and nothing else gets in between. It's amazing." Mellits and Chai traveled to Dublin late last year so the composer would work and rehearse with the quartet. Mellits enjoyed the process of working with group's members. "What I ended up with is this resonating sound of ringing notes, that you get on a guitar, and that you can divide up among the four players," Mellits said of the approximately 17-minute-long piece. The guitar quartet is based in Dublin, and Chai is known around Syracuse as an Irish-style fiddler and leader of the Irish sessions held on Saturdays at Kitty Hoynes Irish Pub. But there is nothing particularly Irish about Mellits Quartet. "That's not who I am," he said, adding that much of the Dublin quartet's repertoire has no Irish overtones. Mellits said there are three ways people often characterize his work: Indie classical, avant pop and post-minimalist. (The Dublin quartet specializes in works by minimalist composers) "I don't use any of those terms myself," he said. "I don't think of it as anything other than the music I write." THE DETAILS What: Concert by the Dublin Guitar Quartet, sponsored by the Syracuse Friends of Chamber Music. When: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, March 5. Where: H. W. Smith Elementary School, 1130 Salt Springs Road, Syracuse. Performers: The Dublin Guitar Quarter (Brian Bolger, Pat Brunnock, David Creevy and Tomas O Duircain). Featured work: The world premiere of Quartet, by composer Marc Mellits. Program: Nikita Koshkin: Changing the Guard Philip Glass: String Quartet No.2 "Company" Rachel Grimes: Book of Leaves John Tavener: The Lamb William Kanengiser: Gongan Leo Brouwer: Cuban Landscape with Rhumba Marc Mellits: Quartet World Premiere Urmas Sisask: Songs in honour of the Virgin Mary Gyorgy Ligeti: Musica Ricercata Tickets: Single tickets: $25 regular, $20 seniors, $15 young adults (under 30), free for full-time students with ID. Single tickets available only at the door. Subscriptions to Syracuse Friends of Chamber Music are available online. Scott Simon.jpg Scott Simon. SYRACUSE, N.Y. - Scott Simon, award-winning host of National Public Radio's Weekend Edition Saturday, will discuss his latest book about his mother's death at a dinner 7 p.m. March 9 at Le Moyne College. Simon's presentation will kick off an end-of-life symposium Francis House, a private Syracuse home with hospice services, will host March 10. The symposium will feature several speakers. Simon sat by his mother's bedside during the last few weeks of her life and used Twitter to chronicle their memories, sad moments and jokes. His 1.25 million followers laughed at their jokes, grieved with him and sent him encouraging words after she died. His mother, Patricia Lyons Simon, died of lung cancer in 2013. He expanded those 140-character tweets into a book, "Unforgettable: A Son, A Mother, and the Lessons of a Lifetime," which is part of the two-day symposium. Besides his six books and his work on NPR, Scott has contributed to The New York Times, The Los Angeles Times, The Guardian, The Wall Street Journal and more. He has also been a guest and commentator on BBC, NBC, CNN, ESPN and CBS Sunday Morning. Other speakers at the symposium will include Dr. Robert Wicks of Loyola University Maryland and R. Ann Fitzgerald Ober, author of "Healing Conversations: Essential Communications for Healthcare Professionals." Doors open at 6:15 p.m. for Scott Simon's dinner program at 7 p.m. The all-day symposium on March 10 runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. More details about the event can be found on the Francis House website. The deadline to register is March 4. The dinner program with Scott Simon costs $50, the one-day symposium March 10 costs $150 and both events cost $175 if purchased together. Registration can be done by email or by calling Nancy Light of Francis House at (315) 475-5422. 19843888-mmmain.jpg From left, Angel Delgado, Kristen A. Green and Lauren A. Roman, all of Newburgh, were arrested Saturday on charges of concealment of a human corpse and conspiracy. (New York State) NEWBURGH, N.Y. -- Three Upstate New York residents have been arrested on allegations they concealed the body of a woman discovered in a ditch. Angel Delgado, 44, Kristen Green, 41, and Lauren Roman, 33, all of Newburgh in Orange County, were arrested Saturday on charges of concealment of a human corpse and conspiracy, state police said. The body of Alexis Scanlon, 28, of Newburgh was found in a ditch on a remote section of New Unionville Road in the Town of Plattekill in Ulster County on Friday, police said. She had died a day earlier. The police investigation revealed that Scanlon died at Delgado's residence, the Middletown Times Herald-Record reported Police did not say what caused her death. All three suspects were jailed in lieu of $5,000 bail or $10,000 bond. Information on their lawyers was not immediately available. WASHINGTON (AP) A judge has awarded $13.2 million to a man who was convicted of murder in Washington and spent 28 years in prison based on forensic hair analysis that was later discredited. D.C. Superior Court Judge John Mott awarded the money on Friday to 55-year-old Santae Tribble, who was convicted in the 1978 slaying of a taxi driver, The Washington Post (http://tinyurl.com/zbxma5b) reported. Trimble was exonerated in 2012 and released after DNA analysis revealed that hairs found near the scene of the crime were not his. Tribble is the third District of Columbia man who has received a multimillion-dollar judgment in his favor after being wrongly convicted based on hair analysis. The D.C. Public Defender Service uncovered a pattern in which prosecutors exaggerated claims about the reliability of forensic hair testing. The city government has been ordered to pay $39 million in damages over the past year. The cases led to a federal review and a disclosure by the Justice Department that FBI examiners overstated testimony in nearly all criminal cases involving forensic hair evidence for two decades before 2000. Tribble was convicted in 1980. At his trial, prosecutors suggested that it would be a "1 in 10 million" coincidence if hairs found in a stocking near the crime scene were not Tribble's. The person who killed the taxi driver reportedly had worn a stocking mask. Mott awarded Tribble $400,000 in damages for each year he was jailed along with money for lost wages and medical expenses and $100,000 for each year since his release and through 2019. Medical experts testified that Tribble, who suffers from liver failure and cognitive impairment, among other ailments, is not expected to live past 2019. "Mr. Tribble's ordeal did not merely deprive him of his liberty in a constitutional sense -- it ruined his life, leaving him broken in body and spirit and, quite literally, dying," Mott wrote. Nick Brustin, whose firm represented Tribble, said in a statement that Tribble "continues to suffer after enduring so much and remains angry, but today is an important day for him and his family." PORT ST. LUCIE Police are investigating three apparent burglary-related incidents Sunday night at neighboring businesses on Southwest St. Lucie West Boulevard, a release said. At 10:20 p.m. Sunday, Port St. Lucie police went to Treasure Coast Hospice thrift store after receiving reports the front glass door was smashed. Police reviewed surveillance video and determined a white male about 6 feet 2 inches tall and wearing a green hooded sweatshirt threw something at the front glass door, smashing it. The man, who also wore gloves, blue jeans, black Nike shoes and a mask on his face, looked through the cash register and nearby areas, but found no cash. The man also is accused of smashing the front glass door to Florida Nails, but he didn't appear to get anything from the business. Finally, the man is suspected to have tried to get into China Kitchen II All three businesses are in the 800 block of Southwest St. Lucie West Boulevard. Anyone with information is asked to call Port St. Lucie Police at 772-871-5001 or Treasure Coast Crime Stoppers at 800-273-TIPS. FORT PIERCE In two separate incidents early Sunday, a women was knocked to the ground by a robber and shots were fired at a building and car, according to police reports. At about 1:42 a.m., a 41-year-old woman was walking to work when she was slapped to the ground along south U.S. 1. Police found her purse nearby behind a building in the 2000 block of U.S. 1. Her check book, bank debit card and driver's license were missing. A police dog followed a trail until Florida Avenue and South Third Street. The assailant was described only as being a male and tall. Later, at around 2:24 a.m., gunfire damaged the front of a building and a car in the 100 block of North 29th Street, according to police reports. The building was hit five times and the car was hit once. Police found five shell casings at the scene. A loggerhead turtle hatchling made it to the Atlantic Ocean on July 20 at Virginia Forrest Beach in Stuart. (LEAH VOSS/TREASURE COAST NEWSPAPERS) SHARE A female loggerhead sea turtle makes her way up the beach in Sept. 2013 before nesting in Vero Beach. Turtle nesting season officially begins March 1. Anyone seeing a turtle on the beach are urged to not disturb them or use flashlights, as they can abort the process if they feel threatened. (FILE PHOTO) By Tyler Treadway of TCPalm Strong but not record-breaking numbers are expected in the sea turtle nesting season that begins Tuesday along the Treasure Coast. The wild card this year: Lake Okeechobee discharges that are clouding not only water, but nesting predictions. A plume of brown water extends along the beaches of northern Jupiter Island in Martin County. And no one is sure how the dirty freshwater water will affect leatherbacks, loggerheads and green turtles looking to come ashore and lay eggs. Follow our Lake Okeechobee discharge meter for daily updates. "There's no data available to tell us what the impact of the discharges will be because it's never really been studied," said Niki Desjardin, project manager at Ecological Associates in Jensen Beach, which has contracts to monitor sea turtle nests on beaches in parts of Martin, St. Lucie and Indian River counties. The discharged water might affect nesting turtles, Desjardin said, because of its higher temperature, lower salinity and cloudiness. How's the water in your area? "You never know about sea turtles," Desjardin said. "If something doesn't agree with them, they'll move to another nest site." Since Jan. 30, more than 65 billion gallons of Lake O water has been discharged into the St. Lucie River. That's enough to cover the city of Stuart with nearly 37 feet of water. Brown plume On outgoing tides, a plume of brown water a combination of water from the lake, canals stretching into western Martin and St. Lucie counties and the river's natural watershed pours out the St. Lucie Inlet. Nearshore currents send most of the brown freshwater south along beaches on northern Jupiter Island. Last year, sea turtles laid nearly 4,200 nests on beaches at St. Lucie Inlet State Park, which starts at the St. Lucie Inlet and extends south to just north of Pecks Lake, and Hobe Sound National Wildlife Refuge, which runs from Pecks Lake to the town of Jupiter Island. Last year's nest numbers for the park and refuge: Loggerheads: 2,286 2,286 Green turtles: 1,756 1,756 Leatherbacks: 152 Sea turtle nesting season on the Treasure Coast runs from March through October. Nesting seasons for each species overlap; but generally, leatherbacks come first followed by loggerheads and then greens. Female sea turtles don't lay eggs every year, Desjardin said, "so I expect green turtle nests will be down because they set a state record last year. Loggerheads, which are by far the most numerous sea turtles to lay eggs on the Treasure Coast, had very high numbers, but not a record. Leatherbacks locally did well." Weather also plays a significant role. Heavy wave action from hurricanes, tropical storms and nor'easters can wash away beach sand, making it difficult for turtles to come ashore. Lights out Humans play a part, too. Artificial lights illuminating a beach whether from streets, inside and outside residences or parking lots can keep a nesting female from coming ashore. And when baby turtles hatch this summer, their natural instinct is to head toward the brightest light on the beach. Under natural conditions, that would be the moon and stars reflected on the water, so they crawl toward the ocean. Inland artificial lights can disorient hatchlings and cause them to crawl away from the ocean, where they're more likely to be eaten by predators, run over by cars or die from overheating and exhaustion. All three counties have laws restricting light on beaches to help protect sea turtle hatchlings. A rundown of the Treasure Coast sea turtle nests reported in 2015: Martin County Loggerheads: 9,638 9,638 Greens: 4,434 4,434 Leatherbacks: 624 Indian River County Loggerheads: 5,229 5,229 Greens: 1,735 1,735 Leatherbacks: 50 St. Lucie County* Loggerheads: 1,912 1,912 Greens: 316 316 Leatherbacks: 65 Turtle hotline: To report sea turtle nest poaching or harassment of sea turtles, call 911 or the Florida Fish and Wildlife at 1-888-404-FWCC. *: Numbers from Fort Pierce Inlet to Indian River County line unavailable Sources: Ecological Associates Inc., Town of Jupiter Island, Indian River County Murky waters from Lake Okeechobee discharges stain the St. Lucie River on Thursday near Palm City and Stuart. The Army Corps of Engineers opened the St. Lucie Lock and Dam on Jan. 30 and Lake O water has been flowing into the St. Lucie River since. (LEAH VOSS/TREASURE COAST NEWSPAPERS) By Isadora Rangel of TCPalm TALLAHASSEE Senators are chipping away at a 10-year fund for Everglades and Indian River Lagoon restoration proposed in a bill by Senate President-elect Joe Negron and want more money for projects in their own backyards. The Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on General Government approved Senate Bill 1168 Monday, along with an amendment that decreased Everglades restoration funding from a minimum of $200 million to $145 million annually or 25 percent of money available through Amendment 1 approved by voters for land and water conservation, whichever is less. Committee chairman Sen. Alan Hays filed the amendment to change Negron's bill and add $5 million annually to restore Lake Apopka in his Central Florida district. He said that doesn't mean he's not committed to the Everglades, especially in light of recent Lake Okeechobee discharges into the St. Lucie and Caloosahatchee rivers that prompted Gov. Rick Scott to declare a state of emergency Friday in Martin, St. Lucie and Lee counties. The bill gives priority to projects that reduce discharges. "We look at this funding level here as being a minimum (for the Everglades)," said Hays, R-Umatilla. "We hope we are abundantly blessed and able to put as much as we can into this project." Negron said he will try to raise Everglades money back to $200 million in its next hearing. The bill still needs to clear one committee before it's ready for the floor. Committees are scheduled to stop meeting Tuesday, but Negron said he's "optimistic" an additional meeting could be scheduled later this week. Hays' amendment also decreased funding for springs restoration guaranteed in the bill from a minimum of $75 million to $50 million or 7.6 percent of Amendment 1 dollars, whichever is less. An amendment by Sen. Wilton Simpson, R-Trilby, got another $5 million annually to restore Crystal River and Kings Bay on the west coast. Sen. Charlie Dean, the Inverness Republican who amended Negron's bill earlier in February to include springs funding, said he will push to bump that amount back to $75 million. The House version of the bill, HB 989, is scheduled to be heard on the floor Tuesday and still includes the $200 million for the Everglades but none for springs, Lake Apopka or Crystal River. Co-sponsor Rep. Gayle Harrell, R-Stuart, said she isn't open to adding the Senate changes to her bill and wants it to address only the Everglades. "We are fixed on getting our $200 million," Harrell said. SHARE Property appraisers need better tools for winnowing the wheat from the chaff "Ag is like pornography," St. Lucie County Property Appraiser Jeff Furst said. "It's hard to describe, but I know it when I see it." Furst and his colleagues around the state are trained to recognize legitimate agricultural operations. Conversely, they can spot an ag operation that fails to meet the definition of "good faith commercial agricultural use" set forth in Florida's Administrative Code. When the latter occurs, a property appraiser will deny a landowner's request for an agricultural classification or remove an already existing ag classification. The result? Depending upon the size and location of the property, the landowner may get hit with a tax bill of tens of thousands of dollars. Some property owners choose to challenge the property appraiser's decision in court. And the courts have tended to place the burden of proof on property appraisers, not property owners. "We've got a lot of land that shouldn't be receiving an ag exemption for its true function," Furst said, "but we have no legal way to remove the ag exemption." No legal way. Those are key words. Frank Desguin is the Charlotte County property appraiser and former president of the Florida Association of Property Appraisers. Desguin is weary of doing battle with landowners who obtain the ag classification solely for tax purposes. He says the Florida Legislature needs to give property appraisers better tools to do their jobs. One suggestion? "Florida statutes really don't define what 'bona fide commercial agricultural use' is," Desguin said. "This term is better defined in the Florida Administrative Code." But, as he points out, the administrative code doesn't carry the same authority in the judicial system. "Lawmakers should consider making some of the ag definitions that appear in the administrative code part of Florida statutes," Desguin said. Another possible solution? Establish a law allowing counties to claim back taxes from either the landowner or developer if a non-agricultural development is built within three years of a sale of farmland. Florida's "greenbelt laws" were created in 1959 to protect genuine farming and ranching operations from rising property values and property taxes. There are thousands of legitimate ag operations in the Sunshine State and each is deserving of the agricultural classification. However, many ag landowners fear they'll lose these protections if the Legislature decides to reconsider ag laws. Lawmakers need to leave protections in place for genuine agricultural operations. But they also need to clarify and toughen the statutes so property appraisers can winnow the wheat from the chaff. The number of agriculture parcels by county and ag applications denied this year by Treasure Coast property appraisers: Martin: 2,187 24 St. Lucie: 2,279 66 Indian River: 1,571 23 IN GOOD FAITH "Good faith commercial agricultural use of property is defined as the pursuit of an agricultural activity for a reasonable profit or at least upon a reasonable expectation of meeting investment cost and realizing a reasonable profit. The profit or reasonable expectation thereof must be viewed from the standpoint of the fee owner and measured in light of his investment." Florida Administrative Code, 12D-5.001(2) Tom McCarthy (center left) and Michael Keaton (center right) accept the award for best picture for "Spotlight" at the Oscars on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) SHARE By Gil Smart of TCPalm Quick context on what Treasure Coast residents are talking about this week: Oscar spotlight on 'Spotlight' Score one for the ink-stained wretches. "Spotlight," the film that portrays how The Boston Globe investigated and reported widespread sexual abuse in the Catholic Church took home best picture at the 88th Academy Awards on Sunday night. A key figure in the true-to-life film was editor Marty Baron (played by Liev Schreiber), who got his start as a cub reporter on the Treasure Coast and was the impetus behind the investigation. In her acceptance speech, producer Blye Pagon Faust thanked The Boston Globe's Spotlight team, and journalists at large, "Not only do they affect global change, but they absolutely show us the necessity for investigative journalism." The win reminded us why so many people remain passionate about that necessary work, despite the challenges facing the news business. Elsewhere Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Oscar, and host Chris Rock repeatedly skewered the #OscarsSoWhite social media campaign. Many of the winners also used the platform to stump for their preferred political causes. We're just happy to see quality journalism get a little bit of that "spotlight," too. And on the eighth day, Cespedes drove ... So will he keep it up during Week 2? New York Mets center fielder Yoenis Cespedes amused fans at Port St. Lucie's Tradition Field and across the country by arriving at spring training in a different luxury vehicle every day last week. It started Sunday with a custom pickup truck. On Tuesday, he showed up with a motorized tricycle. Cespedes sent a Mets staffer to go buy a waffle maker in a $400,000 Lamborghini on Wednesday. And so on. Cespedes, who signed a three-year, $70 million contract last year, reportedly said that in his native Cuba he rode a bike, and now that he has found success in America he wants to explore the possibilities. Fair enough. Although hall of fame Mets catcher Mike Piazza, on hand as a guest instructor Sunday, had some sage advice. "I see he's been working on his collection of cars," said Piazza, who owns a car dealership. "I don't care what you drive as long as you drive in runs. That's the key." Meanwhile, the fine folks at SBNation suggested a few other vehicles Cespedes might use for his commute to Tradition Field, including a Star Wars X-wing fighter, the Batmobile and the Oscar Mayer Weinermobile. Now that's stylin'. Another look at Yoenis Cespedes' other Avorza Polaris Slingshot. Maybe this one can fly. #Mets #SpringTraining pic.twitter.com/7zr2LUdHCo Jon Santucci (@JonSantucci) February 27, 2016 Emergency money for ... what? A weary cheer emanated from the Treasure Coast on Friday after Gov. Rick Scott declared a state of emergency in Martin, St. Lucie and Lee counties because of the ongoing discharges from Lake Okeechobee that have fouled the St. Lucie River. The problem is, no one seems to know exactly what it means. Martin and St. Lucie county officials said they had calls in to the governor's office to try and discern the details. A disaster declaration gives state, regional and local agencies the ability "to waive or deviate from their respective rules, ordinances, or orders" needed to deal with the emergency, and typically greases the skids for more funding to be made rapidly available. In his declaration, Scott specifically cited the need for the federal government to provide more than $800 million to finish repairs to the Herbert Hoover Dike that encircles the lake and to boost funding for the Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan. But St. Lucie County spokesman Erick Gill told TCPalm there's nothing in the governor's declaration that would make money available to local people and businesses that have suffered from the discharges. .@FLGovScott declares state of emergency in counties impacted by Lake O discharges https://t.co/rBGWMHmdiU via @TCPalm #IndianRiverLagoon Ed Dead Water Killer (@TCPalmEKiller) February 26, 2016 Miracle baby Cutting edge surgical procedure saved Sara Beth and Dillon Roberts child If you met 7-month-old Ellis Roberts, you would say he is the happiest baby on earth. You would never know that he once had a grim chance of survival even before he took his first breath. Pregnancy was a dream come true for newlyweds Sara Beth and Dillon Roberts, two St. Edward's schoolmates who fell in love and married after attending an alumni reunion some 20 years after graduation. Sara Beth's family founded Kennedy Groves and has been in Indian River County for generations. 'I was roughly halfway through my pregnancy when (OB/GYN physician Christina Dupree of Partners in Women's Heath at Indian River Medical Center) noticed something unusual about my ultrasound,' said Sara Beth. 'There was a shadow in the baby's chest cavity right above his diaphragm and she suggested I make an appointment with my specialist to determine exactly what it was.' Sara Beth had previously seen Dr. Gregory Locksmith of Winnie Palmer Hospital in Orlando, a specialist in maternal and fetal medicine, as a precautionary measure because of her advanced maternal age. She called him for an appointment. 'My husband and I joked on the way there that we were both taking the whole day off and everything was going to be fine,' she said. 'Dillon continued to joke with the doctor during the ultrasound.' But Locksmith wasn't talking. His eyes were fixed on the images before him. 'There was a mass in the baby's chest tissue that shouldn't be there,' said Johnson. 'When you see an abnormality like that, you've got to delve deeper, characterize the mass, measure it and see where its blood supply is coming from.' It was a broncho-pulmonary sequestration. BPS is normal lung tissue and airway tissue that is not connected to the bronchial tree. Its blood supply does not come from the heart - it comes from the body. It's sequestered it's by itself. A mass of this type is typically removed within a year after the baby is born. The surgery has a high success rate. 'We had never heard of BPS,' recalls Dillon. 'He said he would like to monitor it every week for the duration of the pregnancy to make sure everything is going well.' 'I was alarmed but not devastated,' said Sara Beth. 'We felt like we were in really good hands with Dr. Locksmith.' 'The first couple of appointments were fine,' said Sara Beth. 'But then they started to notice there was fluid buildup around the sequestration and for the first time we became concerned.' Typically these masses do not grow very fast, but this particular mass was being fed by the largest vessel in the body the aorta and it was growing rapidly. 'It was scary,' said Sara Beth. 'We thought we were looking at his liver or another organ. Dr. Locksmith now wanted to monitor it more frequently, so we drove to Orlando twice a week.' According to Locksmith, 'The combination of mass and fluid growth at such a dangerous, rapid pace resulted in not only fluid build-up in the intestines and scalp, but moved the heart to the opposite side of the chest and compressed the baby's lungs. And the worst part was that it was taking up blood supply. The baby was having to pump a lot of blood to that mass and that could cause the baby to go into heart failure and die.' Next steps Locksmith referred the couple to internationally renowned, high-risk pregnancy specialist Dr. Anthony Johnson in Houston. He practices at the Fetal Center of Children's Memorial Hermann Hospital, located in the University of Texas Medical Center. The hospital is a leader in providing diagnoses, treatment and complete care for mothers with high-risk pregnancies and babies with congenital or genetic conditions. The couple flew to Houston the next day. The following day, a team of 20 fetal physicians spent hours examining the baby and mother and their options. 'It is very rare. Only 5 to 10 percent of BPS cases get into a situation where the mass growth is so large that it causes fetal hydrops where excess fluid builds up around the heart causing the baby to have abnormal circulatory function,' said Johnson. 'Many times it's a fatal outcome.' 'Dillon and I were telling ourselves, 'We're at 28 weeks. They'll operate and deliver the baby, and everything will be fine,' said Sara Beth until Johnson presented them with their only option: BPS laser ablation surgery. Only performed 26 times before throughout the world, this innovative procedure had a 95 percent success rate. But it had been performed only five times in all of North America never in Texas and not by any physician at Memorial Hermann. On the edge Even though Johnson has performed many laser ablation procedures in the treatment of severe twin-to-twin transfusion syndrome, and has extensive experience with other fetoscopic-based and needle-guided procedures, he had never performed this particular operation. 'When you're talking about this kind of surgery, you are always walking on the edge,' said Johnson. 'Quite frankly it came down to the decision of the fetal therapy board and my team, a multi-disciplinary group that can look at this and say, 'This is a reasonable option in the face of a very bad situation.'' With a green light to move forward, the Roberts prepared for surgery the next morning. Precision It is a very unique procedure where a laser fiber is inserted through a needle and guided by a physician's hands based on ultrasound visualization. The needle is placed through the mother's skin, through her abdominal muscles, through the uterus and right into the baby's chest. The key is to place the tip of the needle next to the aorta and precisely in front of the feeding vessel that connects to the growth or tumor. A laser fiber scans down the needle to pinpoint where that vessel is. Then power is applied to stop blood flow to the mass, which stops its growth. After surgery, the BPS receives less blood from the fetus. The heart and lungs can then start growing more normally as the BPS shrinks in size. Tense days 'There were probably 20 doctors in the operating room with many flat-screen TVs overhead. I was awake and very calm because they put something in my IV,' said Sara Beth. 'I remember getting on the operating table and seeing the little isolette. Dr. Johnson went through the entire procedure telling everybody what was going to happen, what they were going to do, and if anything went wrong they would perform an emergency C-section.' The operation was unsuccessful within hours the blood flow returned to the mass. 'Basically you're putting a needle right up to the baby's aorta. If you give it too much energy the aorta could erupt,' said Dr. Johnson. 'With this type of technology and this particular case, we felt minimal power was best.' Success A successful second surgery followed the next day. 'The thing about fetal work is our highs are so high you can't touch us, and our lows so low that we can't find a hole deep enough to crawl into,' said Dr. Johnson. 'We work the opposite ends of life. We're good, but we're not God.' 'Watching that vessel shut down by what we did was pure 'Wow, this worked, this is great.' We were walking on a cloud. The rest of the day doesn't matter because we just made a major impact on a couple and a family's life.' Ellis Roberts was born at Winnie Palmer in Orlando almost three months later, on Sept. 9, 2015, weighing 7lbs, 8 oz. under the care of Dr. Gregory Locksmith. 'We were still nervous about how his lungs were going to be after being flattened by that thing,' said Dillon Roberts. 'It was really remarkable that within three seconds after birth, he started screaming.' Locksmith says Ellis' recovery was more than remarkable. 'The term 'miracle' is thrown around many times in life, maybe a little too much and sometimes when it doesn't apply,' said Dr. Locksmith. 'But in this case, baby Ellis is a true miracle.' These days when the topic of our local hospital comes up, the tone is often negative. Local media coverage about Indian River Medical Center and its relationship with the Hospital District fuel the conversation. Topics discussed include CEO compensation, executive severance packages, and a recent COO resignation. As a newspaper veteran, I understand the responsibility of the media to cover the hospital's relationship with the district. Their decisions determine the use of taxpayer funds that provide for indigent care. Whether such coverage is negative or positive, it is imperative that taxpayers are up to date on the use of their money. Thank heaven, we have our First Amendment along with state sunshine laws to guarantee such coverage. The rapid-paced change of healthcare, the growing shortage of physicians and the ongoing implications of healthcare reform, nationally and statewide, are realities that must be faced by our hospital administration and its board of directors. Their work is vital to all of us. Residents also need to rely on their local media to be broadly informed on how such change affects their healthcare. While community conversation surrounding IRMC and the hospital district has its place, it is also important to talk about the progress that has been made over the past 10 to 12 years. IRMC is ranked 12th among 260 Florida hospitals by U.S. News & World Report. IRMC's affiliation with Duke Medicine along with tens of millions of dollars from local donor philanthropy over the past several years has transformed it from a small, limited community hospital to a broad-based, award-winning community medical complex. Our hospital provides the right patient care, right here. The hospital foundation provides funding for advanced technology, enhanced facilities and elevated patient care. And our hospital district provides funding for those who can't provide for themselves. Each of these three elements has a specific mission that they fulfill. Working together, they provide unique care for 145,000 Indian River county residents. The voluntary boards of the the hospital, the foundation and district are filled with residents who have varied, successful backgrounds and keep a sharp focus on hospital matters. The hospital executive team is highly and broadly credentialed to provide the best patient care possible. The hospital staff has retained their small community-hospital personality while providing professional and award-winning care. IRMC's Heart Center; the Scully Welsh Cancer Center; upgraded A Fib treatment technology; expanded patient navigator services; upgraded ER facilities and the new Wellness Center housing IRMC staff physicians are on the list of improvements already achieved. These services were not available just a few years back. Gone are the days a heart or cancer problem would drive local residents to out-of-town hospitals for care. Future challenges are on IRMC's radar screen. Foremost is solving the shortage of doctors. This begs the need for a hospital endowment program, which recently has been launched with solid initial support. The next time you are engaged in a hospital conversation, I urge you to expand it to inform others about what a fine facility they have in IRMC. Henry K. 'Buzz' Wurzer held several executive positions at both Tribune Co. and Hearst Corp. newspapers. He is currently on the IRMC Foundation board. He recently served on the board of the Indian River Community Foundation. Apple last week filed a motion to vacate a federal order requiring the company to create a tool or code to unlock the iPhone of one of the San Bernardino, California, shooters. The order would set a dangerous precedent and release a powerful means to breach security on potentially millions of phones around the world, Apple argued. It transcends one phone and would empower government to make private companies compromise the security of all their users whenever it sees fit, the company said. This is not a case about one isolated iPhone. Rather, this case is about the Department of Justice and the FBI seeking through the courts a dangerous power that Congress and the American people have withheld: the ability to force companies like Apple to undermine the basic security and privacy interests of hundreds of millions of individuals around the globe, the motion says. Signature Required Apple already has tools that could compromise the security of millions of people, so the implication that this code is any different from similar capabilities the company possesses is baseless, according to Stewart Baker, partner atSteptoe & Johnson. Furthermore, Apple has security in place to protect itself and its users from data breaches, he told TechNewsWorld. The code that theyre so worried will get out is no different than any of the other codes they write, in that if it gets out, then bad things will happen. Apple already protects its code very aggressively because they dont want that to happen, so theres no super-burden to protecting this code, Baker noted. This is particularly true because in order to install this code on the phone that is the target it is going to be necessary for Apple to sign the code with their super-secret signature, he added. What would happen is that Apple would send this signature to the phone, which will identify itself back to Apple, which means Apple almost certainly has to be right in the middle of any such transaction. Its not like you can just steal the code and walk off and use it because you also have to have Apples signature, Baker said. If Apples signature is compromised, its the end of security for everyone, and theyre already in a position where they have to protect that aggressively, he added. The case is a matter of getting information thats imperative to an ongoing investigation, according to Paul Charlton, a partner at Steptoe & Johnson. What we can say with absolute certainty is that if you think about this as something other than a technology company if you think about this in terms of Apple being the landlord that holds within its building evidence of terrorist activity there wouldnt be any doubt in anyones mind that the government should be allowed, with the appropriate court authority, to go in and take what they need, he told TechNewsWorld. FBI director James Comey has made it very clear that what hes interested in is not a back door, not a wide open door into this apartment complex, if you will, but entry into a specific apartment to grab this specific piece of information. That seems narrowly tailored and wholly reasonable to me, Charlton said. Uninted Consequences Creating the code the government is asking for would open a Pandoras box of unforeseen consequences, according to Christopher Maurer, assistant professor of information technology and management at theUniversity of Tampa. We see time and time again that there are really good intentions. There might be a real problem and government is not addressing the underlying issue and instead is creating other issues in the form of loopholes or unintended side effects, he told TechNewsWorld. One such side effect would be a precedent allowing other law enforcement agencies to order phones to be unlocked, noted Chris Calabrese, vice president for policy at theCenter for Democracy & Technology. In terms of the idea that this is no different and that this back door doesnt create a vulnerability is just not true. What were talking about is a precedent that will not just be for the FBI but will almost certainly be for those state and local law enforcement, of which there will be tens of thousands across the country. Theyre all going to encounter iPhones. Theyre all going to want them to be unlocked, he told TechNewsWorld. A back door would be a potentially hazardous tool if it fell into the wrong hands, Calabrese added. Theres going to have to be an entire process in place on unlocking iPhones somehow, which is to say subverting their security. Thats a giant process designed to be exploited by bad guys. And you just cant say somehow that this is a one-off, he said. Congressional Action Ahead Congress eventually will have to answer the larger privacy question, Steptoe & Johnsons Charlton noted. We are constantly weighing our rights to privacy versus our need for security. Thats why we have a Fourth Amendment. Thats why we have to get search warrants before we conduct searches on individuals homes, he said. Here, thats exactly what happened. The FBI obtained a valid court order after showing probable cause to believe that theres evidence of terrorist activity on this phone, and right now that court order is still in place, absent the lawyers from Apple being able to reverse that order theyre going to have to turn that information over, Charlton added. However, incentives already are in place to ensure that customer data is secure, the Center for Democracy & Technologys Calabrese maintained, citing the Sony hack. There are a lot of incentives to want to build devices that are private and secure. There are reputational harms, potential liability, the requirement that they do a data breach notice if the information gets out, he said. Weve all seen, for example, what happened with Sony and the devastating result of not having good security in their systems, Calabrese said. The National Institute of Standards and Technology has published standards for good security and cryptology, he noted. There are guidelines in place that help people know what they need to do. There are best practices out there that have nothing to do with legislation. On the other hand, rigid mandates might freeze the development of security technology, Calabrese added. You dont want to say you must do the following six things to secure a phone when in three years those things could be totally out of date but you still have a legal requirement to do them, he said. Theres a push pull when it comes to whether you should mandate security, Calabrese added. Our view is that you need baseline security standards, and you need to let people know what best practices are and then create incentives to get people to meet those best practices without mandating anything in particular. Movidius on Wednesday announced that its working with Google to put deep learning on mobile devices. Google will source Movidius latest flagship chip the MA2450 and software development environment, and will contribute to Movidius neural network technology road map in return. That could result in smartphones and other mobile devices that will be able to understand images and audio swiftly and accurately. The Movidius Technology The MA2450 is the most powerful iteration of Movidius Myriad 2 vision processor unit, which the company said is the only commercial solution available to perform complex neural network computations. The Myriad 2 is the first always-on vision processor, Movidius said. It has a programmable architecture and comes with the Myriad Development Kit, or MDK, which includes a software development framework. That lets developers incorporate proprietary functions and build arbitrary processing pipelines while leveraging the vision, imaging, and linear algebra software libraries and reference vision processing pipeline examples Movidius provides, all as source code. The MDK includes all necessary programming and debugging tools. Movidiuss Myriad VPU processor powers GooglesProject Tango. What to Expect We can expect to see run-time deep neural networks for speech-to-text, vision and many other smart machine applications running in phones, cameras, automobiles, medical devices and others because the DNN models can be downloaded and run disconnected from the cloud,Gartner Fellow Tom Austin said. Remember that working with Google on a project doesnt necessarily translate into products, cautioned Jim McGregor, principal analyst atTirias Research. However, this has the potential for almost any device and extends well beyond just facial recognition; this is machine learning. Facial recognition and retinal scans the technology enables could significantly increase the level of security over fingerprints and even help identify people, he told TechNewsWorld. Facial recognition could be used in two-factor authentication, and Google could bake it into Android as it did with fingerprint IDs, suggested Wayne Lam, a principal analyst at IHS Technology. Google also could apply the technology to home security platforms, he told TechNewsWorld. Think Nest and other IoT uses. Potential Uses for the Technology Banks will begin using smart machines widely, and a report Gartners Austin co-authored suggests most banks will invest in six main types of smart machines during the next few years. The smart machines resulting from Googles team-up with Movidius could make wireless banking more secure, he told TechNewsWorld. Other possible uses include authenticating users or admins signing in remotely to an enterprise network, and tracking and authenticating users for security purposes and for provisioning or deprovisioning as needed. Facial recognition and retinal scans are much more secure and user-friendly than any of the more common security solutions, Tirias Researchs McGregor said. This could allow users to log in and begin using platforms in a secure manner effortlessly. The technology also could be used in wearables and industrial applications in the medical and industrial automation fields, where the Internet of Things might come into play, he suggested. A New Trend Emerges This capability is not limited to the Movidius solution, McGregor pointed out. Qualcomm is doing it in conjunction with its image signal processor, and this could be done within most SoCs by leveraging the ISP, DSP, GPU, VPU and CPU resources. Microsoft, Apple and a whole range of social sites like Facebook, Amazon, Baidu, IBM and a few thousand other firms might follow suit, Gartners Austin suggested. As global smartphone sales slow, noted IHSs Lam, well see more and more efforts to create differentiated value for platforms such as Android and iOS just to keep up with the furious pace of competition and innovations. Shop Pirate Coupons Quote by Ms Kulpreet Kaur, Co-founder of As expected the Union Budget 2016 has its focus on Standup India and boosting the budding entrepreneurs. We expect that 2016 is going to be a fruitful for women entrepreneurs as Stand Up India scheme allocated Rs.500 Crores for SC, ST and women entrepreneurs. However I am somehow not happy with the special treatment given to SC/ST entrepreneurs as this may discourage the upcoming talents who might not get an opportunity to bring an innovative business idea due to the scheme and at the same time might give an encouragement to someone who dont deserve. Though its a good move to encourage entrepreneurs who didnt get a platform to showcase their skills, but ensuring that scheme benefits right people and keeping an eye of the system to maintain discrepancy, will be a tough challenge for the government. Allocation of Rs 1,000 crore for new EPF (Employees Provident Fund) is welcoming. However no change in current taxation system is disappointing for ecommerce industry. Overall a good budget but not very impressive. Technuter.com News Service Some games only need a single good idea to work. For example: Superhot, a punishing first-person shooter in which time only moves when you move. It's a single, good idea. And it works. Each of Superhot's twenty-odd levels recreates an archetypal action-movie setpiece: The office raid, the drug deal gone wrong, the hallway brawl, the server-room shootout. One minute you'll be in Oldboy, the next minute The Matrix. From there you'll hop to The Raid 2 and then John Wick and then Hard Boiled and then [insert action movie here]. An army of faceless enemies waits in ambush, or maybe they jog into the room in waves, or maybe they creep up behind you. Most of them are armed with some sort of gun or other weapon, and a single hit from any of them will kill you. Your substantial advantage is that if you stop moving, time slows to a crawl. If you don't walk, don't dodge, and don't fire your weapon, the action will be just about frozen. Bullets edge toward you inch by inch; katana-wielding foes move like snails. You have time to plan, prioritize, and then act. Superhot's minimalist aesthetic mercilessly focuses your attention. Enemies are red, weapons are black, and everything else is white or grey. There's no music, just a dull rushing tone along with the cracks and shatters of time-slowed violence. You may spend several minutes charting a route through the tougher levels, but an actual real-time replay takes only seconds. Boom, boom, boom. New level, new level, new level. Keep moving forward. Boom, boom. Sub-rules emerge, each one stacking on the others to give the battleground an ever-more complex structure. Shotguns hold two bullets. Handguns usually hold three or four. Assault rifles shoot in four-bullet bursts. Melee weapons have a cooldown, but unarmed attacks don't. You can throw an empty gun or other object into an enemy, and they'll drop whatever they're holding. Time it right and you can snatch their dropped weapon out of the air and resume firing. You can stand between two gun-wielding enemies and trick them into shooting each other. Superhot modulates Hotline Miami's unforgiving, practice-makes-perfect room clearing with Max Payne's bullet-time, ending up in some uncharted middle ground that favors careful strategy over twitch reflexes. Your character's vulnerability means you'll have to plan each move very carefully, and the pause-act-pause-act rhythm begins to feel turn-based: I enter from the left, punch the guy with the shotgun, grab his gun and take out the guy on his right, duck behind the corner to dodge the shots from the machine-gun guy across the room, fire my second shotgun blast into the dude at the window, and then... hmm... okay, then what? Each level alternates between demanding careful choreography and demanding quick thinking and improvisation. Some kills will cause emphatic text to blast across your screen. "ASKING FOR TROUBLE," the game announces after you pop an enemy's gourd from across the bar. You harshly exhale, pause, continue your killing spree. Any time you complete a level, the words "Super HOT Super HOT" play over and over as you're treated to a full-speed replay of your exploits. What felt in the moment like an undersea dance routine becomes, at full speed, an amazing display of action-movie badassery. (You can even upload full-speed versions of your best performances to a website called "Killstagram.") You fly into the room, a flurry of fists and bullets, headshotting one guy before throwing your weapon into another guy's face. The game says: Super HOT. Super HOT. Super HOT. You dodge a point-blank shot and grab a sword from a nearby corpse, sidestepping one more bullet to slice through your enemy. The game says: Super HOT. Super HOT. Super HOT. You leap from a skylight and throw a baseball bat into a guy's face, grabbing his weapon and clearing out the rest of the room. The game says: SHUTTING DOWN THE OPERATION. Then it says: Super HOT. Super HOT. Super HOT. Superhot wraps itself in an intriguing, wry meta-layer: it's a game within a game, sometimes within a game. The menu is a mystery unto itself. It presents an old-school DOS-like operating system complete with garbled glitchy text, locked directory trees, buried freeware, and ancient chat programs. It often plays icy dom to the player's sub, constantly taunting and poking you, stripping your control and berating you for not doing as you've been instructed. All the while the computer's noisy fan and old floppy drive whirr in the background. Eventually something more sinister emerges: the fourth wall is broken, then rebuilt, then broken again. If I hadn't played so many other games that pull similar tricks I'd have found it more subversive than I did, but it's still good for a chuckle or two. I completed my first run through Superhot in only a couple of hours, but after finishing, the game unlocked a large number of challenge modes and started nudging me toward what I can only imagine are some well-hidden secrets and easter eggs. One challenge mode is a time trial where the clock only ticks when I move. Another asks me to beat every level using only my fists. My favorite is called "Katana Only" and is described thusly: Superhot can be very bossy, and has instructed me to tell people that it's "the most innovative shooter I've played in years." I wouldn't go that far, but it's certainly one of the purest and most enjoyable I've played in a while. It carries itself with such focused, ruthless poise that spilling any more words on it feels needless. This one's a winner. Last month, Netflix announced that it was cracking down on those people who use proxies to watch content on the streaming site that isn't available in their own country. Its first step was to target specific VPN services, such as Australia's uFlix; then, PayPal joined in the geoblocking fight by severing its payment processing agreement with Toronto-based VPN UnoTelly. Now, it seems that Netflix has moved things up a gear, as reports are pouring into Reddit from users across the world who are finding that they can no longer access the site using VPNs and DNS workarounds. Users in Spain, Germany, the Czech Republic and the UK have reported that the previous methods they used to circumvent Netflix geoblocking are no longer working. "Since yesterday, using a VPN while accesing Netflix will cause an error (M7111-1331-5059) and a message saying you must disable it in order to watch content," wrote user eduazy. "I'm personally considering cancelling my Netflix subscription since 90% of the content I watch isn't available in my country. (sic)" VPN companies claimed that there was little Netflix could do in order to stop people using their services to access location-restricted content on the site, but it seems as if the company is pouring a lot of resources into this battle. Reports also say that Netflix is even blocking VPN's that don't actually change a user's location. While there are those in the UK who say they can no longer access Netflix using a VPN, not everyone in the country is facing the same problem. But there's always the chance that this may change as time goes on. Netflix itself says that it has no choice but to enforce the ban, due to the "historic practice of licensing content by geographic territories." Whatever the reasoning, Netflix will doubtlessly lose an ever-increasing number of international subscribers the more VPNs it manages to block. At the dawn of the cyber-century, how we view online security would forever be changed: the FBI has asked Apple one of the most rigid tech companies in the world, security-wise for the key to unlock the iPhone of one of the San Bernardino shooters. Apple, however, has declined, insisting that doing so will set a dangerous precedent. The company is indeed adamant on its goal to defend the privacy and safety of all users of its tech. Chief Executive Tim Cook said the backdoor software which the federal government wants the company to create to unlock the iPhone could potentially not only be used once, but it could be used over and over again on any number of devices. He said the software would be the master key that could open millions of locks from banks to restaurants to homes and stores. "No reasonable person would find that acceptable," said Cook. Just like any battle, both sides will need allies. As reported by Tech Times, major tech companies such as Google, Facebook, Microsoft and Amazon are all rallying in support of Apple's decision. Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg said the company is against terrorism, but believes that encryption is an important tool. "I don't think requiring backdoors with encryption is either going to be an effective way to increase security or is really the right thing to do for just the direction that the world is going to," said Zuckerberg. However, a report by The New York Times suggests that something is quite fishy: Apple has previously slammed Google and Facebook for supposedly exploiting users' personal information to sell ads, consequently endangering personal privacy. Still, Silicon Valley's view of privacy is completely nuanced. "The government can put me in jail. Google, Facebook and Twitter cannot," said Georgetown University scholar Larry Downs. The federal agency says it's only asking for technical assistance in bypassing security features on a phone used by one of the extremists who killed 14 people in San Bernardino. "We couldn't look the survivors in the eye if we did not follow this lead," said James Comey, FBI director. Apple has filed a request to dismiss the FBI's court order. Microsoft, Google, Facebook and Twitter say they will all file legal arguments to support the company's case. These same companies had objected vocally after Edward Snowden revealed the scope of the surveillance programs of the National Security Agency, which collected user data and tapped their networks without their knowledge. The companies had gone to court to limit that kind of data-gathering, while fighting attempts to weaken the encryption codes that shield inboxes from prying eyes. Yet advocates complain that these same companies reap billions of dollars by collecting personal information such as records of customers' online behavior and using them for advertising. Google and Facebook have argued that they take pains to protect the data they record. For instance, Facebook keeps track of user likes and interactions so the company can show them ads targeted to people with similar characteristics. Rachel Whetstone, formerly the senior vice president of Google, said in a speech last year that the tech company does not sell personal information, nor share it without permission, except in extremely limited circumstances. This includes facing a court-issued warrant. As Apple faces its big battle with the FBI, Electronic Frontier Foundation executive director Cindy Cohn warns consumers that they should be aware that any information they give to companies could someday be sought by the government. Cohn said she is glad that companies are coming together to support Apple. "It ultimately may raise some hard questions for them about how much information they need to collect, and how they secure it, and how long they keep it," she added. Photo : Karlis Dambrans | Flickr 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Apple's Silicon Valley rivals are standing side-by-side the tech company behind the line it has drawn in the sand over unlocking the San Bernardino iPhone. The reasons they've laid out may make a lot of sense to the jurors of the court of public opinion, but what they haven't being saying may make even more sense. It would set a dangerous precedent, Apple CEO Tim Cook reasoned in an open letter laying out just why his company refuses to comply with a court to unlock the world's most infamous smartphone. It's not just that the U.S. government wants Apple to unlock the iPhone that was once owned by one of the two terrorists that perpetrated the San Bernardino Massacre it has unlocked iPhones for the government in the past. The government now wants Apple to build a software backdoor into the iPhone, and that's where Apple draws the line. "The implications of the government's demands are chilling," Cook wrote. "If the government can use the All Writs Act [of 1789] to make it easier to unlock your iPhone, it would have the power to reach into anyone's device to capture their data." Together They Stand Microsoft is standing up for Apple in court. The Redmond-based company is prepping a friend of the court brief to show solidarity with Apple over what they say puts the privacy of consumers into the hands of the government. Others to stand on Apple's side of the line includ: Google, Amazon, Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter. Others still are rumored to be on board and moments away from speaking up. Box wasn't ready to put its support in writing. But the company's CEO, Aaron Levie, made his company's position clear. "The second the FBI unlocks this device, any sophisticated bad actor will move to another more secure device," Levie said. "We land squarely on the side of more security and more encryption." Apple Care The best interest of consumers may truly be on the minds of the nation's top tech companies, both inside Silicon Valley and headquartered elsewhere. But money is undoubtedly a major motive here. Those two things aren't mutually exclusive. For Apple, it may be the most obvious. The iPhone brings in well more than 60 percent of the company's revenue. And in a world that has heard what NSA leaker Edward Snowden had to say and has seen what celebrity iCloud users didn't want to share, security has been a huge deal for Apple. For Microsoft, its big seller is the cloud storage and server products category. Despite situating its servers in Ireland, the company found the government knocking at its doors with a warrant for information stored in its cloud. Enterprises are already having a hard time going off campus and migrating to the cloud, for fear that they're most valuable assets and trade secrets could fall into the wrong hands. For Alphabet, Google's parent company, its meal ticket is advertising. More people would be way less willing to share any type of data with Google if the company was found to be giving it to the government. The company doesn't sell private data, but it uses the information to improve the types of ads its platforms deliver. They all have their own stories and so does Amazon, Facebook, Twitter and the rest of the gang. And CNET's Ed Bott, who follows the finances of the three listed above, knows where to look to find out a company's motives. "If you want to know why a company acts the way it does, just follow the money," he writes. So yes, Silicon Valley cares about consumer privacy. That's because consumer protections are good for business. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Samsung removed two popular features from the Galaxy Note 5; a removable battery and microSD expansion slot. If one of those omissions kept you away from the S Pen-equipped phablet, a new deal on the Galaxy Note 4, which includes both features is on sale for $319.99. For years, Samsung loved to highlight that its flagship smartphones and phablets offered two distinct advantages when compared to Apple's iPhone. Users were able to easily swap out batteries on Samsung's devices and weren't locked into a particular storage size like Apple's sealed-metal iPhones since Samsung also included the convenience of a microSD expansion slot. Samsung removed microSD expansion and removable batteries from last year's flagship Galaxy S6, S6 edge, Note 5, and S6 edge+ and received major criticism for those choices. The decision prompted a renewed interest in the company's previous generation flagship devices from consumers who didn't want to give up those features. A new deal on the Samsung Galaxy Note 4 can score you the 5.7-inch Quad-HD phablet for $319.99. The retailer is offering the 32 GB device in choice of black or white and Verizon or AT&T compatibility. We reported in December that Samsung is expected to release the Galaxy Note 4's Android 6.0 marshmallow update in Q1 2016. A leaked video also showed the software update running on a Note 4, which brings the Galaxy Note 5's S Pen Air Command menu feature to the Note 4, which includes an aspect called Off Screen Memo that allows users to quickly take notes with the S Pen without having to wake the device. The Samsung Galaxy Note 4 features a 5.7-inch 2,560 x 1,440 Quad HD Super AMOLED display with a pixel density of 515 pixels per inch (ppi), is powered by a Qualcomm Snapdragon 805 processor, and 3 GB of RAM. The phablet includes 32 GB of internal storage and a microSD expansion slot that supports up to 128 GB microSD cards. The Note 4's camera capabilities consist of a 16-megapixel rear camera with OIS (Optical Image Stabilization), autofocus, LED flash, and 3.7-megapixel front-facing shooter for selfies and video chat. The Galaxy Note 4 ships with a large 3,220 mAh removable battery and Quick Charge 2.0 support, which will provide up to a 60 percent charge in only 30 minutes. If you're interested in the 32 GB Samsung Galaxy Note 4 head over to eBay where you can pick up a Verizon or AT&T compatible device for $319.99. The retailer notes that limited quantities are available. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A bigger fence will shut off Mexican migrants, Obamacare, the Iran deal and ISIS will be ripped to shreds and then, only then, will America start winning again. The rhetoric from the campaign trail may be bringing in new voters, but billionaire investor Warren Buffett counts himself among those who don't believe America is doomed unless the right presidential candidate moves into the Oval Office. In an annual letter to shareholders, Buffett addressed the negativity that has come out of the debates and stump speeches of the current batch of presidential hopefuls. Buffett has endorsed candidate Hillary Clinton, who has stressed that she intends to pick up where Obama will leave off on Jan. 20 of next year. "It's an election year, and candidates can't stop speaking about our country's problems (which, of course, only they can solve)," Buffett wrote. "As a result of this negative drumbeat, many Americans now believe that their children will not live as well as they themselves do. That view is dead wrong: The babies being born in America today are the luckiest crop in history." The United States gross domestic product (GDP) of $56,000 per capita is, "in real terms," six times what it was back in 1930, he stated. That's the year he was born. The economic shape of the country isn't an indicator of people's intelligence or work ethic. It's because people work more efficiently and produce more, a trend Buffet stated was sure to carry on. While some bemoan the country's 2 percent per year growth in real GDP, Buffett stated that the rate produces "astounding gains." With an annual population growth rate of about 0.8 percent (0.5 percent from births minus deaths and 0.3 percent from immigration), that 2 percent growth will compound to about 34.4 percent in real GDP per capita. All of that makes for a projected $19,000 increase in GDP per capita, stated Buffett. He pointed out that people living in his upper middle class neighborhood can afford luxuries that simply weren't available to oil tycoon John D. Rockefeller Sr. But he conceded that he can't say for sure just how evenly the pie will be cut up, meaning the gulf between the rich and the poor could continue to swell. There will remain the tug of war between rich and poor, new rich and old rich, prime workers and retirees, the sick and the healthy and so on. "Clashes of that sort have forever been with us - and will forever continue. Congress will be the battlefield; money and votes will be the weapons. Lobbying will remain a growth industry," Buffett stated. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Apple's highly purported 4-inch iPhone SE has undoubtedly dominated headlines lately. Now, alleged iPhone SE leaked photos have emerged on the Web ahead of its introduction, showing off the phone's design and the absence of 3D Touch. These images that have been pushed out by French publication NowhereElse specifically show the screen assembly of the iPhone SE. While the iPhone SE, which previously carried the moniker iPhone 5se, has become a hot topic recently, it's been noticed that leaks on the phone's parts have not been around, considering that its release date is just a couple of weeks away. Judging from the new images, however, it appears that this upcoming iPhone will not feature a 3D Touch, a noteworthy functionality present on iPhone 6s and iPhone 6s Plus. This new rumor seems to support previous speculations that rather than a 3D Touch, it will incorporate Live Photo support. This does not signify, though, that the iPhone SE will feature decent functionalities. Speculations say it will rock the latest A9 processor and Apple Pay along with a 12-megapixel snapper. The leaked images have been captured by Steve Hemmerstoffer who is well-known for his reliable leaks in the past. He has also posted the same photos on his Twitter account. When Will The iPhone SE Be Launched? Earlier, the iPhone SE was rumored to be unveiled at an event on March 15. However, a report from Re/code claims that the actual media event is going to be held on March 21. While it is not clear whether the event has been moved to a later date, Re/code says that quite a few sources have verified that Apple will take the veil off its latest iPhone on the latter date. As opposed to big announcements of the company's flagship smartphones, the media event is believed to be a bit smaller in scale and will possibly be held in Apple's Town Hall in Cupertino. South Korean website UnderKG claims another date: March 22. However, the report cites an unidentified source. It likewise says that Apple employees were advised to keep March 22 free for the special event. Apart from the iPhone SE, new types of Apple Watch bands, along with the new 9.7-inch iPad Pro, are also rumored to be unwrapped. The last iPhone having a 4-inch display was the iPhone 5s. The smaller variant of the latest iPhone models, the iPhone 6s, has a 4.7-inch display. As usual, take this story with a touch of skepticism. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The proximity of your home to a grocery store may change the way you eat, a new study suggests. It's not just because you'll eat more, but because living near the supermarket may prompt you to make healthier food choices. Researchers from the Georgia Institute of Technology have turned around the notion that living close to the grocery is associated with an unhealthy lifestyle, and found that those who live close to the store eat healthier. The research team divided food into two categories: the first list is exclusive to the Instagram feed of those living in Northeastern "food deserts." This is a term used by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to describe communities that have limited access to supermarkets. The agency identifies food deserts based on the availability of fresh produce. The second list is exclusive to non-food deserts. But why examine Instagram posts? "Instagram literally gives us a picture of what people are actually eating in these communities, allowing us to study them in a new way," said Munmun De Choudhury, lead author of the study. De Choudhury and his colleagues identified the food choices and nutritional profiles of people living in food deserts and non-food deserts throughout America. They decided to study 3 million geo-tagged posts on Instagram, and based the nutritional profile for 9,000 different foodstuff on USDA's database of nutritional values. The team discovered that the food displayed and eaten by people in food deserts in the West and Southwest is 5 to 17 percent higher in cholesterol, fat and sugars than the Instagram posts by those who live in non-food desert areas. However, the biggest difference between two food communities is among fruits and vegetables. "Forty-eight percent of posts from people in non-food deserts mention them," said De Choudhury. "It's only 33 percent in food deserts." Additionally, the researchers observed that regardless of food availability, people in the U.S. tend to eat the food that their area is most famous for. This included steak and coffee in the West, cheesecake and smoked salmon in the East, and biscuits and okra in the South. "It doesn't matter where you live," added De Choudhury. "Everyone seems to eat what their region is known for." The study was presented at the ACM Conference on Computer-Supported Cooperative Work and Social Computing (CSCW). Photo : Eddie Welker | Flickr 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Nurse, who was readmitted at a London Hospital due to late complication treatment of Ebola virus, has been released. The Scottish nurse named Pauline Cafferkey, who was said to have a life-threatening complication that affects the brain, was discharged from the Royal Free Hospital on Sunday, Feb. 28. London Hospital Statement The hospital confirms the news in its website and adds that Cafferkey is not contagious. "We can confirm that Pauline is not infectious," the hospital statement reads. The hospital goes on to reiterate that Ebola virus may only be transferred via direct contact with blood and other bodily fluids of a patient who is still experiencing signs and symptoms of the infection. Good News, Bad News Secretary State for Health Jeremy Hunt praises Royal Free Hospital for yet another excellent care. He tweeted about the news, which he described as "fantastic," with a hashtag #NHSheroes. Despite the good news, it must always be remembered that Ebola virus is a deadly disease that can affect body parts not covered by the immune system. The World Health Organization warns that the virus can affect the brain, eyes and spinal cord. The Journey Of An Ebola Nurse Turned Patient Cafferkey first contracted the virus in December 2014, while working as nurse in a treatment facility in Kerry Town, Sierra Leone. After being diagnosed with the disease, she was placed in isolation for a month at Royal Free Hospital. She survived that admission and was later released by her doctors. In October 2015, however, Cafferkey was admitted once again because she developed meningitis, which is a complication of Ebola virus. Cafferkey became critically ill at that time, reports said. Doctors were baffled with this development, even calling Cafferkey's case "unprecedented." Cafferkey was transferred to Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow on November 2015, where she spent her recovery days until she was finally discharged. The most recent admission of the 40-year-old nurse was confirmed by Royal Free on Feb. 23. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A couple of awesome tech deals that you shouldn't miss have become available online. The Microsoft Band 2 can now be purchased at $175 while Microsoft Lumia 640 is now priced at $30. Microsoft Band 2 Sale Best Buy and Microsoft Store have slashed the price of Microsoft's fitness tracking wearable, the Microsoft Band 2, from $249.99 down to $174.99. The Microsoft Band 2 has the capacity to receive texts, calls, emails and calendar reminders. As a fitness device, it can track users' performance while running, biking and more, very much like other fitness trackers available in the market. It features the ability to monitor users' heart rate, burned calories and quality of sleep. Users have the option to pair the Microsoft Band 2 with iOS, Android or Windows Phone devices. Consumers can select from three sizes: Small, Medium and Large. Small is for users with a wrist size of 5.7 inches through 6.5 inches. Medium is for those whose wrist size is between 6.3 inches and 7.5 inches, while Large is for those with a wrist size of 7.3 inches to 8.5 inches. This deal will run until March 26. Microsoft Lumia 640 Sale If you are searching for an affordable Microsoft handset, you can now grab the Microsoft Lumia 640 for only $29.99, half the original price. This Microsoft phone is available through the GoPhone prepaid service of AT&T, which has three tiers. If you will choose the $30 per month plan, you can buy 100 MB of data for $5. The $45 per month plan ($40 with auto refill) offers 2 GB of data plus rollover minutes. If you pick the $60 per month offering ($55 with auto refill), you will be given 5 GB of data along with rollover minutes. Do note that all these plans come with unlimited talk and text plus unlimited messaging to Canada, Mexico and 100 other more countries. Yes, it carries a cheap price, but is it worth buying? Check out our Microsoft Lumia 640 review roundup to know what experts are saying about the device. Those who are interested with this offering may head to Best Buy and Walmart. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Celebrated Director Ang Lee gave the world a treat 16 years ago when he released the critically acclaimed martial arts film, "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon," an epic film adapted from Wang Dulu's Crane-Ironnovels that is so packed with amazing action, swordplay and tension that makes it hard to replicate. Unfortunately, Yuen Woo-ping, the original film's action choreographer, attempted to reproduce it in the Netflix sequel "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny" and that is where the mistake was made. Certainly, the sequel has equally epic swordfight scenes and is adapted from the same Crane-Iron novels as its predecessor but we will all just have to agree that Yuen is no Ang Lee. Much of what Yuen decided for the sequel would have been more welcome if it did not try to mirror Ang's 2000 film but it does have its own merits. We all already know that much is lost and added during translation so it is not surprising at all that the purely English script for "Sword of Destiny" makes the original "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" fan feel like something was lost, considering it was adapted from Chinese literature. The idea and story is there but somehow, it does not seem at all to be like the story we expected. Of course, the ultra-talented Michelle Yeoh returned for the sequel and the legendary Green Destiny sword is, once again, the reason for all the chaos. The fight choreography seemed to have been focused on gaining "oohs" and "aahs" and were undeniably choreographed and seen as a combat, unlike in Ang's film where both hand-to-hand combat and swordplay play out like a dance. "[His] fight sequences, while fast and intricate, feel perfunctory. As the film ticks off the fights on its way to the big showdown, there isn't a moment that possesses the enchantment or emotion with which Mr. Lee infused 'Crouching Tiger,'" Mike Hale of The New York Times says. One of the major complaints from the sequel is the obvious use of Computer-Generated Imagery (CGI) to make the scenes more spectacular as opposed to the original where the CGI's main use was to remove the wires in the finished product. "[The] new film chooses to replicate the exact same story beats of its predecessor while trying, and failing, to top its fight sequences with some ill-advised computer assistance," David Sims of The Atlantic writes. Now, critics can probably let the CGI slide if only the film made up for it in other aspects but, sadly, this was not the case. "While there are a few beautiful establishing shots, much of the plot is confined to a compound courtyard, where the Green Destiny is being protected by the House of Te [...] Narratively, there's an over-reliance on flashbacks to bring a sense of epic scope to what is a rather small and dramatically inert story," Katie Walsh of Los Angeles Times writes. Walsh's review seems to resonate with another critic's observation. "The fights are shorter and lack Lee's elegance and grandiose sweep, and the wire-work is kept to a minimum until the climactic battle. And above all, the 90-minute runtime (not counting 10 minutes of credits) doesn't give the characters enough time to stretch out," Tasha Robinson of The Verge explains. Robinson's comment basically points out what Yuen's sequel could have focused on. The original "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon" was rife with tension and, while there was much silence, much of the characters' stories are also revealed, fleshing them out without having to say it out loud. The sequel left us hanging somewhat in that respect. "Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon: Sword of Destiny" will still leave the audience in awe and is a worthy watch as long as you don't compare it to the original. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A nurse in Pennsylvania helped in surgery at a veterans hospital after drinking four to five beers. Apart from public drunkenness and driving under the influence charges, the male nurse was also charged with recklessly endangering another person. On Feb. 4, Richard Pieri conducted his pre-surgery tasks at the Wilkes-Barre VA Medical Center in Luzerne County. He monitored the patient's vital signs and helped prepare for surgery. After staggering into the hospital, the police affidavit said he had a hard time logging into the hospital's computer system. Moreover, he entered incorrect operation time stamps into the computer, the authorities added. While the police affidavit didn't include what the procedure was conducted, the document revealed that the patient suffered from stomach pains and was readmitted. The police asked the 59-year-old nurse why he believed the authorities want to talk to him. "I guess it has something to do with me being drunk on call." he replied. Pieri is from Drums, Pennsylvania. On Feb. 4, he arrived at the Mohegan Sun Pocono casino around 5:00 P.M. While playing slots, he consumed between four to five beers then left to lie down at home. He was called in for surgery around 10:30 P.M. Pieri said he forgot that he was on call and only remembered it when he was paged. Last Thursday, Rep. Jeff Miller, R-Florida requested U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs secretary Robert A. McDonald to explain why Pieri still reported for work despite the Feb. 4 incident. "While I appreciate the department's efforts to remove this individual from patient care, I think our veterans and the American taxpayers are still left questioning why he is on the payroll," wrote Miller. The letter requested McDonald to provide a surveillance footage, police report and updates on the Veterans Affair's investigation of the Pieri case as well as actions taken by March 3. Miller sent a second letter, this one addressed to the hospital wherein he requested the same documentations. According to a Veterans Affairs statement dated Friday, Pieri was removed from patient care responsibilities at the hospital. Additional actions will be made if necessary upon completion of the ongoing investigation. A preliminary hearing is set on March 29 before Magisterial District Judge Joseph D. Spagnuolo. Photo: Quinn Dombrowski | Flickr 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The Health and Social Care Information Center survey says that the oral health of kids in the UK is getting worse. The situation is particularly alarming because of the thousands of decaying teeth removed in hospitals in England. The figure shows more than 128,000 children 10 years old and below were required at some point to have at least one tooth extraction since 2011. Most of the tooth decays in these cases were said to have been avoidable. Hospital Admissions For four consecutive years, the numbers have been but an increasing trend. In fact, there has been about a 10 percent rise of hospital admissions among children due to severe tooth decay during the said period. Admission rates among children aged 5 years and below were about 14,445 between April 2014 and March 2015. Such statistic does not include children aged between 6 and 10 years old, which will add 19,336 cases. In terms of gender, the report says boys were more likely to experience severe tooth decay than girls. Decay For The Deprived The authors emphasized that the number of tooth extraction has a solid correlation to the area deprivation. This is because the tooth extraction cases among the most deprived kids were five times higher than those living in least deprived areas. Implications Of Worsening Oral Health Royal College of Surgeons' Dean of Dental Surgery Nigel Hunt describes the 9.81 percent rise of tooth decay as unacceptable. "Not only is tooth decay distressing to children and parents, it has serious social and financial implications," he says. Hunt says the leading reason for hospital admissions among children aged 5 to 9 remains to be tooth extraction. Such an issue is urgent, especially because about 90 percent of tooth decay is considered preventable, he adds. Another implication of the findings may be the lack of adequate primary dental care. The tooth decay of these children has gone worse, thus implicating that they may not be visiting their dentist on a regular basis. The authors say the kids won't need to have their tooth extracted if only professional dental monitoring was in place. The tooth decay may have been addressed early on and cases would not have reached the stage of extraction. Kids having tooth extraction under general anesthesia during secondary care also implies that the tooth decay has developed into severe conditions already. Government Action Hunt now calls for further interventions from the government to address the issue. He emphasizes the need to heighten education regarding the effects of sugar on teeth. In the past two years, access to NHS dentists has been improving. Government statistics say that there has been an increase of 100,000 patients seen by dentists in 2015 than in 2014. Tooth Decay Tooth decay is a dental problem that occurs when acids dissolve the outer part of the teeth. Among the most common signs and symptoms of tooth decay include toothache, increased sensitivity, dark spots on teeth, bad breath and unpleasant taste. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. China will launch its second space lab Tiangong-2 into orbit in the third quarter of this year, followed by the cargo ship Tianzhou-1 in mid-2017. The latter is expected to dock with the Tiangong-2 to conduct experiments. China is also planning to send the manned Shenzhou 11 spacecraft into space later this year that will also dock with Tiangong-2. The Shenzhou 11 spacecraft, which will be launched by two Long March 2F carrier rockets, will carry two astronauts. The initial test flight for the next-generation Long March 7 rocket was completed at the Wenchang satellite launch center in Hainan Province. The Long March 7 rocket will bring the Tianzhou-1 or "heavenly vessel," China's first cargo ship, into space in mid-2017. "[Long March 7] will be the baseline model for the latest generation of our medium-sized rocket. Its launch will greatly improve China's capability in entering and returning from space," a statement China's space agency said. Shenzhou 11 astronauts are currently training for the launch later this year. The new space lab, the spacecrafts and their accompanying rockets are either in the assembly or examination phases. China aims to have a permanent, manned and functional space station by 2022. A spokesperson said that by 2020, construction on China's first orbiting space station will be concluded. The multi-billion-dollar space project continues to increase national pride in China these recent years. China's space station will have three parts, two labs and a core module. Each lab will weigh about 20 tonnes. The Tiangong-1, the first space lab, was launched in September 2011. During its first two years, the Tiangong-1 has completed two dockings with the core module. The Tiangong-1 has been in space for nearly five years. The spokesperson said its pristine condition allows it to remain in orbit for further operation. China is a bit behind in the space race. They launched their first space satellite in 1970, about 11 years after the U.S. first sent man to the moon. In the last 40 years, China has put vast amount of resources into space research and training. In 2003, the first Chinese astronaut went into space followed by 10 more who have gone into orbit. Photo : NASA Goddard Space Flight Center | Flick 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Venomous bites can be deadly when left untreated, but venom also has a medical upside. Scientists, for instance, have recently started tapping peptide toxins for targeting brain receptors to potentially act as painkillers. Researchers from Australias University of Queensland revealed their use of ProTx-II, a peptide toxin found in the Peruvian green velvet tarantula, and its capacity for inhibiting the pain sensation receptor, making it a prospective painkilling alternative in the future. Sonia Troeira Henriques, researcher at the Institute for Molecular Bioscience of the university, explained that ProTx-II is known to bind to the pain receptor in the membrane of the cells in the neurons, yet the precise binding site as well as the role of the cell membrane in the toxins beneficial action were not yet known. The team then explored ProTx-IIs structure and activity using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. They also used other techniques such as molecular simulations in order to see how the toxins interact in cell membranes. "The neuronal cell membranes attract the peptide [toxin] to the neurons, increase its concentration close to the pain receptors, and lock the peptide in the right orientation to maximize its interaction with the target," explains Henriques. According to the research, previous studies practically ignored this important role of the cell membrane in ProTx-IIs actions. For the first time, it was revealed that the membrane-binding action, for instance, enhances its ability to inhibit Nav 1.7, which is a highly noted pain receptor. The toxin also interacted with cellular structures involved in pain, blood pressure regulation, and muscle and nerve relaxation, enabling new medicinal targets for treating neuromuscular, neurological and other pain-related disorders. The goal now is to design molecules for pain management with fewer or no side effects. The team will present their findings at the Biophysical Societys 60th Annual Meeting in California held Feb. 27 to March 2. Millions of individuals worldwide live with chronic and neuropathic pain. Chronic pain is defined as pain lasting over 12 weeks, and may result from injury such as a back sprain or an ongoing illness. The current range of treatments include medications, electrical stimulation therapy, acupuncture, nerve blocks, and surgery some of which provide limited improvements, come with side effects, or even lead to extreme addiction. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Virtual reality can help fight obesity. Not only can VR be used to analyze how a person perceives his or her body, it can also improve discipline to physical activity and treat body image disorders. VR is becoming quite popular and now, it aids in the battle against obesity by offering new treatment approaches to weight-associated disorders. VR environments are capable of producing responses that are similar to the ones in the real world. Researchers from Spain's University of Barcelona and Italy's Catholic University of the Sacred Heart described studies that prove VR's capabilities in an article published in the Cyberpsychology, Behavior, and Social Networking journal's special issue. One of the article authors and journal Editor-In-Chief, Dr. Brenda K. Wiederhold from Belgium's Virtual Reality Medical Institute said that various chronic health conditions are linked to a stress system dysfunction. These conditions include metabolic syndrome, obesity, type 2 diabetes, depression, anxiety, hypertension, pain syndromes and insomnia. In the article, the researchers gave examples of how VR can be used to analyze how people see their bodies. Through VR, people can also participate in simulated encounters that can help reveal food triggers for eating disorders. The authors wrote that VR provides a three-dimensional depiction of a patient's body, which can help the patient be aware of distortions in the body image that can lead to an opportunity to correct such biases. VR then helps provide a more realistic and achievable body image and lower the patient's dissatisfaction. The journal's special issue also includes numerous articles that provide VR's many advantages and usage potentials in terms of health, namely: Eating Disorders and Obesity in Virtual Reality: A Comprehensive Research Chart (Emily Lafond et al.) Using Virtual Pets to Increase Fruit and Vegetable Consumption in Children: A Technology-Assisted Social Cognitive Theory Approach (Sun Joo Ahn et al.) and "What Are You Thinking When You Look at Me?" A Pilot Study of the Use of Virtual Reality in Body Image (Victoria A. Mountford et al.). "I am appreciative to the researchers and clinicians worldwide who are exploring innovative ways to utilize technology to provide more effective assessment and treatment methods to a greater number of individuals," said Wiederhold. Photo: Maurizio Pesce | Flickr 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Starbucks is finally coming to Italy with its first shop slated to open in Milan in early 2017. While the company had opened thousands of its shops in the region and had found success in markets such as Germany, France, Austria and Britain, it had to wait a while before finally venturing into a country known for its distinct coffee culture. Howard Schultz, Starbucks' CEO, said it has always been the company's dream to complete the circle and launch a shop in Italy. However, it is only now that they feel ready to give it a go. Schulz added that the Starbucks concept was born out of his own experiences in the coffee bars around the nation. Italy has a coffee culture that is central to the daily life of its people. It has a well-established market and known for its affinity to espresso. Even today's commercial espresso machines had their origins rooted from an invention by Italian Luigi Bezzera in 1901. Schultz explained that the history of Starbucks is itself connected to the way Italians made their perfect espresso cups. Bringing the Starbucks experience to Italy is something that he considers as a personal experience, although he also acknowledges that it can be a delicate move and may encounter some risks. Orlando Chiari, owner of century-old coffee bar Camparino in central Milan, said that young people in the city may try the Starbucks experience out of curiosity. However, he doubts that the brand will have a major impact in the country. Chiari added that while people in Italy worship coffee, Americans like to drink coffee on the go and even in large sized cups. He stressed how the two cultures are extremely different when it comes to enjoying coffee. According to the European Coffee Federation, Italy's per capita coffee consumption is the seventh highest in Europe. Starbucks will be working with Bergamo-based Percassi Group, the same company that had partnered with Benetton for 30 years. Prior to partnering with Starbucks, the company had also worked with a number of other American brands that include Tommy Hilfiger, Ralph Lauren and Nike. Starbucks said that Percassi will be the licensee owner and operator of the brand in Italy. The company plans to eventually open more shops in the country although it did not give an exact number of the shops to open. Schultz, aware of the challenge that lies ahead, reiterates that they are going to "try with great humility and respect," to bring the Starbucks concept to Italy. 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. In Dragon Ball Z, Vegeta's greatest moment of shame comes when he realizes he isn't powerful enough to defeat Frieza. After exchanging blow after blow, Vegeta had scarcely harmed the intergalactic tyrant. Finally, shortly after Frieza achieves his final form, Vegeta realizes that the battle is lost. There is no way he can win. He stands there in mid-air, brought to tears and visibly shaking at the thought of his upcoming destruction. It's a powerful moment, and one of the few times fans have ever seen Vegeta get so emotional. Now, that moment (which you can watch here in this YouTube video) has been immortalized in a new figure coming from Bandai Premium, complete with "shaking in fear" action. Via Kotaku, the 4,949-yen figure (roughly $44 US dollars) features Vegeta just as he appears in that iconic episode of Dragon Ball Z, tears and all. His armor is damaged just like in the show, and you can see both the sweat on his brow and the tears from Vegeta's emotional state. As for the "shaking in fear" part, the figure comes with a vibrating stand that causes Vegeta to shake, as seen during the battle. It also comes with a neat backdrop in front of which the figure to be placed. The figure is available for preorder in Japan until March 31, and there's no telling if it will be coming stateside. Still, it's cool to see a new "innovation" when it comes to figures like these. Dragon Ball Z superfans should be pleased. You can check out a trailer for the figure below. While we're on the subject of Dragon Ball Z and collectible figures, how cool would it be if Bandai created a bearded Vegeta, as seen on a recent episode of Dragon Ball Super? The character, alongside Goku, recently came out of a lengthy training session in the Hyperbolic Time Chamber, which explains the beard. Unfortunately, it didn't last very long, as Goku and Vegeta quickly shaved off their facial hair. That's precisely why a figure to commemorate the brief moment would be perfect. After all, what's not to like about beards? via GIPHY 2022 TECHTIMES.com All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. This story is limited to Industry Insider California members. learn about membership. This story is limited to Industry Insider California members. Login below to read this story or LOGIN Two DNA tracking databases received California Attorney General Kamala Harris support last week. Both are backed through legislation. The first bill, AB 1848 by Assemblymember David Chiu, D-San Francisco, would require all agencies to use a second tracking system in cases of sexual assault. The second bill, SB 1079 by Sen. Steve Glazer, D-Orinda, will require statewide use of the CODIS Hit Outcome Project database, which helps law enforcement confidentially share DNA results on known subjects, nationwide. Attorney General Harris said of the two bills that, DNA evidence is a tool that provides law enforcement with critical evidence to bring justice to sexual assault victims. By taking full advantage of the states existing forensic tracking technologies, these bills will bolster and modernize law enforcement efforts to solve sexual assault crimes. AB 1848s tracking system, called the Sexual Assault Forensic Evidence Tracking (SAFE-T) tool, is a product of the California Department of Justice, and allows law enforcement agencies to log and track the rape kits collected from victims of sexual assault. Additionally, the bills require annual reporting to the state regarding the number of kits collected and, separately, how many were then actually analyzed. In cases where a kit was not tested, the department will be required to provide a reason. SAFE-T was created in 2015 in response to recommendations by the state auditor. Survivors of sexual assault who are submitting sexual assault evidence kits arent getting the answers they need and deserve, said Assemblymember Chiu. To get at the crux of the backlog problem, we need to know how many kits are collected each year, and if theyre not analyzed, we need to know why. SB 1079 will require the statewide use of the already-in-use CODIS Hit Outcome Project (CHOP) database, in which law enforcement agencies can share matching DNA results when evidence comes back with a positive match to the same known perpetrator of different crimes. CHOP has been in use in California since its creation in 2009. The online database can also be used to assist local agencies in tracking the progress of a DNA hit once crime scene forensic evidence has been matched against a sample in the national database, according to a press release from the office of the Attorney General. Both databases are online, confidential and free to use for any law enforcement agency. Proper use of a statewide system will mean investigations will be more efficient, repeat offenders will be found in the system and rape kits will be accurately tracked, among other benefits, said Sen. Glazer. Ex Machina, an independent film with a small cast, won out against big budget blockbusters such as Star Wars: The Force Awakens, Mad Max: Fury Road, and The Revenant in the special effects category. Andrew Whitehurst, who is known for his work on bigger projects such as Tim Burtons Charlie and the Chocolate Factory and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, spoke to The Verge about the importance of subtle special effects in smaller films: "What perhaps many cinema goers don't notice is that more lower budget, less spectacle-heavy films are making much greater use of VFX." His addressed his thanks also to the cast, ending with a nod in Lubezkis direction about the gruelling filming process: "I thank you from my heart. Leo, you were The Revenant: thank you for giving your soul, your heart. To Hardy, all the Native American cast: thank you for your trust, your talent. I want to thank Chivo for bringing your light to this journey." What will Brexit mean for British trade? As an EU member, the UK and companies based here can sell their goods freely to customers anywhere else in the EU without those customers having to pay additional taxes to import those goods. British consumers and companies can also import from elsewhere in the EU without tariffs. The EU also has agreements allowing free trade with countries such as Norway, Switzerland, South Africa and South Korea. Outside the EU, the UK will need to strike new deals in order to have free trade with those countries or the remaining EU members. What sort of trade agreement will we have with Europe? That depends on what kind of deal the UK was trying to strike. After decades of EU membership UK business regulations are already heavily harmonised with Europe, meaning that the UK could probably strike a very quick deal if and its a big if it was prepared to go on applying those rules in exchange for access to the EU single market, much as Norway does today. In practice, the UK would be more likely seek to negotiate a novel form of Free Trade Agreement, but as Pawel Swidlicki of Open Europe notes, the trade-off is between speed and scope. A so-called rainbow cloud formed over Costa Rica on Tuesday, leaving residents and tourists in awe as the natural phenomenon glided through the sunny skies. The scientific name is cloud iridescence, which occurs when water droplets or ice crystals in the atmosphere scatter the light, according to the Weather Channel. Haiti's diplomat Rodrigue welcomed the imposition of sanctions, although he stressed that more measures are needed to restore security in his country. | Read More Congress plans massive stir on Muslim quota Hyderabad, Feb 29 (INN): Greater Hyderabad Congress Committee (GHCC) Minorities Department chairman Shaik Abdullah Sohail informed that the Congress party was planning to launch massive stir against the failure of TRS Government in providing promised 12% quota for Muslims in jobs and education. Abdullah Sohail, in a media statement, said that Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao has promised to give 12% Muslim quota while addressing an election meeting at Shadnagar of Mahabubnagar district on April 20, 2014. "KCR had promised to give 12% Muslim reservation within four months after coming to power. But nothing has been done by the TRS Government to fulfill its promise. The Sudhir Commission of Enquiry was constituted only to buy more time while rejecting the community's demand for constitution of a BC Commission. This entire exercise is an eye wash," he said. He announced that the GHCC Minorities Department would launch a series of agitation programmes in the next few days to pressurise the TRS Government on 12% Muslim quota. He said that the issue would also be discussed during the proposed minorities' convention of Congress party, to be held later this month. "Besides conducting relay hunger strike, rallies, dharnas, we are also planning to organise massive protest at the same place in Shadnagar where KCR made the promise on April 14 two years ago. We are also planning to organise 'Chalo Secretariat' and 'Chalo Assembly' rallies in near future," he announced. Abdullah Sohail threatened that the Congress party would intensify its agitation if the TRS Government further delays the implementation of 12% Muslim quota. He said that the party may even organise a 'Million March' in protest against the delay. News Posted: 29 February, 2016 TRS Govt not serious on minorities' welfare: Uttam Hyderabad, Feb 29 (INN): Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president Capt. N. Uttam Kumar Reddy has slammed the TRS Government for not releasing more than 50% of funds allocated for Minorities Welfare in budget 2015-16. Uttam Kumar Reddy alleged that Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao's review meeting on Sunday on minorities' issues was aimed at diverting people's attention from the fact that more than 50% of funds meant for minorities' welfare have not been released so far. This is the second consecutive year when minorities have been deprived of funds of more than 50% funds. As against Rs. 1030 crore allocated in 2014-15, only Rs. 438.27 Cr (42.52%) were released. Similarly, of Rs. 1100 Cr allocated in 201-16, not even 50% of funds have been released so far, he said. "KCR has conveniently allowed more than Rs. 1,000 Cr meant for minorities' welfare to lapse during the last two years. He is now trying to divert attention from his sweet talk and a bunch of new promises. Sunday's review meeting, in the presence of MIM leaders, was aimed at silencing the community. Additional funds of Rs. 5.4 Cr for Jamia Nizamia and Rs. 10 crore for Darul Uloom, Rs. 1.75 crore for repair of Mecca Masjid and other minor expenditures are meant to hush up the fact of non-release of more than Rs. 1,000 Cr for minorities' welfare," said Uttam Kumar Reddy. The TPCC Chief said instead of ensuring timely release of allocated funds, the TRS Government was keeping the community distracted by gimmicks like distribution of Ramzan sops or hosting a dinner. "Instead of providing one time food or clothes, the State Government should focus on empowering the Muslim community so that they could earn their livelihood with honour and dignity. It appears that KCR enjoys the scene of poor Muslims standing in long queues to collect Ramzan sops or to submit applications for 2BHK housing, subsidised loans or other benefits. He is directly insulting the entire community just to please his ego," he said. He said KCR, in connivance with the MIM, has ignored the promise of providing 12% Muslim reservation. He has also maintained stoic silence over Alair encounter wherein five Muslim under trials were killed by the police in broad daylight. There is no progress in the SIT probe even after 10 months, he said. Uttam Kumar Reddy demanded a White Paper on release of funds for minorities' welfare during the last two years. He also asked KCR to give an assurance in writing that funds meant for Minorities Welfare would not be allowed to lapse. He said that the Congress party would demand Minorities Sub-Plan in the next budget session to ensure full utilisation of allocated funds for minorities' welfare. News Posted: 29 February, 2016 Employees work along a production line at a factory of Dongfeng Nissan Passenger Vehicle Co. in Zhengzhou, Henan province, China, November 12, 2015. REUTERS/Stringer Millions of migrant workers streaming back to China's industrial heartland after the long lunar New Year break are facing an uncertain future, as smaller factories in particular struggle to cope with anemic orders and rising inventories. A group of young female migrant workers look for work outside a factory in the Pearl River Delta industrial hub of Dongguan, China February 25, 2016. The workers were employed on temporary contracts before the Chinese New Year holiday, and had no work to return to after the holiday, forcing them to look for new jobs. Millions of migrant workers streaming back to China's industrial heartland after the long lunar New Year break are facing an uncertain future, as smaller factories in particular struggle to cope with anemic orders and rising inventories. Picture taken February 25, 2016. REUTERS/James Pomfret In the Pearl River Delta, the "world's workshop" in southern Guangdong province that accounts for around a quarter of China's exports, workers and business owners say production lines have been slower than usual to restart after the annual two-week holiday. At the Xicheng industrial park in Hengli, several factories lay gutted with broken machines strewn outside, while plots of land earmarked for industrial use were being used by villagers to grow vegetables, a sign of the weak demand for Chinese goods that is forcing business closures and putting pressure on wages. "Finding a factory with a good salary, that's what we want," said Luo Xianrong, an 18-year-old laid off by a factory in January, who was one of scores of migrants knocking on factory gates in the hunt for new work. "We have to be careful. Many factories aren't providing food and accommodation, and they're delaying wage payments," she said, as her four friends nodded in unison. "I don't want to be cheated." While global policymakers gathered in Shanghai for a G20 meeting at the weekend declared that "growth in key emerging markets remains strong", the slowdown in China - the motor of the world economy for the past decade - has unnerved investors and contributed to market turbulence at the start of 2016. The plight of Luo and her friends underlines the dilemma for China's leaders - they want to shift the economy away from the low-end manufacturing that fueled its rise, but they also need jobs for the consumers they hope will support its next phase. Labor activists also point to the risk of unrest, as industries consolidate and workers find their benefits squeezed. Manufacturing contraction China's manufacturing sector likely contracted for a seventh straight month in February, with the latest numbers due on Tuesday. The official purchasing managers' index is expected to show the sector shrinking at its fastest pace since August 2012. Exports from Guangdong province - which has a bigger economy than Indonesia - are predicted to grow just 1 percent this year, according to a January government work report. Analysts say many of the smaller factories hit hardest by the slowdown catered more for domestic demand than the export market, another signal that the Chinese consumer is not picking up the slack as is needed to rebalance the economy. That is bad news for policymakers in Beijing, scrambling to stabilize swooning financial markets and with growth slowing to 6.9 percent last year, its weakest in a quarter of a century. Stanley Lau, who runs a watch factory, said uncertainty in Europe, including the refugee crisis and a possible exit of Britain from the European Union, could further sap consumer confidence there, and impact China's factories. "There will be certain numbers of factories that will have some changes, by narrowing down the scale of the factories or moving to other places," said Lau. "We follow the market trend. If we won't receive sufficient orders by mid-year ... We'll have to reduce our workforce. But for now, we'd like to keep our workforce steady." "Life and death" Workers lugging suitcases and bags return to work at a factory in the Pearl River Delta industrial hub of Dongguan, China February 25, 2016. Millions of migrant workers streaming back to China's industrial heartland after the long lunar New Year break are facing an uncertain future, as smaller factories in particular struggle to cope with anemic orders and rising inventories. Picture taken February 25, 2016. REUTERS/James Pomfret While makeshift recruitment booths and signs advertising jobs remain a fairly common sight in the Pearl River Delta, the labor market is seen getting tighter in the coming months. "The life and death of enterprises ... is to be expected," said Xu Jianhua, the Communist Party Secretary of Dongguan, a major industrial city there, at a recent press conference. He said 39,000 enterprises had shut down in Dongguan last year, including around 500 foreign invested firms, though he stressed the number of new businesses registered in the same period had outnumbered those closing down. "The economic challenges will be more complex" in the year ahead, he added. The outlook appeared better for some larger factories with steady revenue streams, including electronics makers such as Foxlink, a subsidiary of Hon Hai <2317.TW>, Apple's main contract manufacturer in China. "We've got these stalls in many factory towns now," said Wang Chunshun, a recruiter for Foxlink who'd pitched several plastic stools and a glossy recruitment poster on the pavement next to a highway and a large industrial estate. "Our company needs new workers, we've still got a lot of orders." Some workers interviewed in Dongguan factory towns suggested the chance of labor disputes or strikes was growing. "I heard from some friends, who didn't get paid by their boss, that the government did nothing to help them," said Zhou Huazhong, a worker at a motor factory in Dongguan, who was smoking a cigarette during a break. "The government is useless." The real challenge for China's leaders is whether the economy can create enough new jobs in sectors they are trying to encourage, such as biotechnology or robotics, to replace those lost lower down the chain. "Basically the employment situation is in a state of flux, factories are closing down," said Geoffrey Crothall of China Labor Bulletin, a labor rights advocacy and monitoring group. "Opportunities are coming up in new manufacturing areas but the question is, are these jobs sustainable? A lot of start-ups are failing and the jobs they're providing aren't often well-paid or offering decent work conditions." ($1 = 6.5390 Chinese yuan renminbi) The Australian Securities and Investments Commission will pursue no further action against Slater & Gordon over its accounting issues after the law firm booked a swingeing $858 million write-down on the value of its goodwill. It is understood the regulator is not planning to take action against Slater & Gordon over its disclosure record or any other breaches of the Corporations Act. Slater & Gordon chief executive Anbrew Grech. ASIC is believed to have left open the door to resuming its investigation into the firm if new information comes to light. Credit:Josh Robenstone ASIC, however, is believed to have left open the door to resuming its investigation into the firm if new information comes to light. Legal sources expressed surprise at ASIC's decision to close its investigation into the company's disclosure record, which saw Slater & Gordon walk away from its profit guidance in December 18 days after reaffirming it for the second time in a month. The bereaved owner of a beagle is speaking out to warn other pet owners of the dangers of a potent sugar substitute lethal to dogs. Christine Manga's much loved pet Rosie died suddenly last month after eating left-over sponge cake containing xylitol. Rosie the beagle died after ingesting a cake made using xylitol. Credit:Stuff Xylitol is a sugar alcohol used as a sweetener in many products - it is safe for humans but is extremely toxic to dogs. RSPCA Australia warns on its website that xylitol should not be given to dogs. When they digest even just tiny amounts, it can cause dangerously low blood sugar and liver failure. Tony Abbott has called for the abolition of the Safe Schools program, as debate flared on ABC's Q&A program over claims same-sex marriage would lead to a new "stolen generation". The comparison was first drawn by panellist Lyle Shelton, the managing director of the Australian Christian Lobby, who said same-sex marriage would see babies taken from their mother's breast. "For two women, or two men to found a family, that involves quite often and particularly if we start with this new policy of defining marriage it's not biologically possible for them to do that," Mr Shelton said. It is possible to negative gear your investment property and help the homeless. HomeGround Real Estate is tackling homelessness in Victoria by working with property investors, with its management fees being directed back to non-profit homelessness agency Launch Housing. Property investors can negative gear their properties, and help the homeless. Two years after setting up in Melbourne it is now preparing to expand its model nationally. It has more than 200 properties on its books. Investors can choose to lease their properties at market rent or a reduced rate. Some have decided to forgo rent altogether. SEOUL: An American student held in North Korea since early January was detained for trying to steal a propaganda slogan from his Pyongyang hotel and has confessed to "severe crimes" against the state, the North's official media said on Monday. Otto Warmbier, 21, a student at the University of Virginia, was detained before boarding his flight to China over an unspecified incident at his hotel, his tour agency claimed. North Korea has a long history of detaining foreigners and has used jailed US citizens in the past to extract high-profile visits from the United States, with which it has no formal diplomatic relations. Jakarta: Indonesia's Chief Security Minister has played down an Australian government warning that terrorists may be in the advanced stages of planning attacks in Indonesia. "We don't see until today there is any evidence they are going to launch a fresh attack toward any target in this country," Luhut Panjaitan, the coordinating minister for security, legal and political affairs told reporters. People carry an injured police officer near the site where an explosion went off at a police post during the Jakarta attacks in January. Credit:AP The Australian government updated its travel advice on Thursday, although the overall level of travel advice for Indonesia was not changed. Moscow: Thirty-six people are dead after Russia's worst coal-mining accident in years, with authorities abandoning rescue efforts in the northern town of Vorkuta. Descending into the smoking pit of a coal mine after methane explosions set off underground fires, six rescue workers were killed on Sunday in a failed attempt to reach 26 stranded miners in northern Russia. The Russian emergency services say the dead include six rescue workers. Credit:AP Russia's most senior federal disaster official declared on the same day that the rescue operation over and all of the missing miners, who had been trapped by a cave-in, dead. "The circumstances in the affected part of the mine did not allow anyone to survive," Vladimir Puchkov, minister of emergency situations, said in televised comments. "In the underground space where the 26 miners were, there were high temperatures and no oxygen". A man will fight allegations he torched a stolen car that was allegedly linked to a shooting in Canberra's south. Harley Dean Stott, 22, was charged with arson and destroying evidence after police said they found the burnt out car hours after shots were fired at a house in Gowrie last year. Shots were fired at the front of a Gowrie house in February last year. Credit:Jay Cronan He pleaded not guilty to both charges in the ACT Magistrates Court on Monday. Police alleged a CCTV camera captured footage of a gold Subaru Impreza as it approached the house in Dalziel Street about 2.30am one morning in February. Police said they found a man dead at about 4.30pm after receiving a call from a member of the public. A resident of the building said he heard screaming at about 4pm and saw multiple police cars arrive at the public housing block on Light Street soon after. A 40-year-old Griffith man has faced court charged with murder of a 46-year-old man , found dead at the Stuart Flats in Griffith on Monday afternoon. They would not elaborate on the relationship between the deceased and the man who has now been charged with his murder. They would also not reveal details of how the victim died, or his relationship with the member of the public who called. Police are investigating a suspicious death at the Stuart Flats in Griffith. Credit:Anthony Croke They said paramedics had also been called to the scene, but had not been required to treat anyone. "ACT Policing Criminal Investigations team members attended and examined the scene and will be assisted by AFP Forensic Services," police said on Monday, noting a report will be prepared for the ACT Coroner. An area at block six of the flats was cordoned off with police tape on Monday night, as officers investigated the scene. They were removing belongings from the apartment about 7.15pm. They remained at the scene shortly after 8pm. Macquarie Bank is looking at a host of possible new online lending partners globally, but is worried regulators are closing in on the new players. Ben Perham, head of strategy and corporate development at Macquarie, said like most banks, it is exploring deals with the various new lenders, including the many small business lenders and P2P lenders. (left to right) Ben Perham from Macquarie Bank, Toby Norton-Smith from CBA and Martin Barrett from AusWide Bank at the ALTFI AUSTRALASIA SUMMIT 2016 in Sydney. Credit:Louie Douvis "We are [looking at] collaborating with US lenders and on the equity side as well," he said. "We are hoping to partner with them and get some of their activities into Australia." But he pointed out that many originate and make the risk assessment on loans, but then sell them off completely, and regulators are discussing whether there is enough "risk retention" to keep risks under control. The debate about superannuation tax reform is starting to look even more like a circus than Donald Trump's presidential campaign. Barely a week goes by without the airing of yet another ill-considered proposal. Since the start of this year we've had calls for super to pay off university debt, for an end to Super Guarantee (SG) rises and for low income earners to opt out of the system altogether. All this against a background of a confused and unproductive super tax debate that lurches from one quick fix to another. Meanwhile the much-needed discussion between industry and the government on the setting of super system objectives as recommended by the Financial System Inquiry has all but stalled. If you wanted to sell $22.5 million worth of Australian iron ore, you would need to ship 465,935 tonnes of the stuff. Or you could sell a single seven-centimetre stone that fits neatly in the palm of one hand. The 404 carat diamond was found in Angola by Australian-listed company Lucapa Diamond. Australian company Lucapa has done the latter, selling the monster 404 carat diamond it found at its mine in Angola earlier this month for $US16 million ($22.5 million). Lucapa declined to disclose the identity of the buyer. The West Australian Court of Appeal has dismissed Fortescue Metals Group's bid to stop a junior iron ore hopeful from seeking access to its Pilbara railway line. For more than two years, Fortescue's infrastructure subsidiary, The Pilbara Infrastructure (TPI), has argued Brockman Mining's May 2013 proposal to access Fortescue's rail under Western Australia's Railways (Access) Code was invalid. Fortescue Metals Group built its own railway after failing to get access to the rail lines of BHP Billiton and Rio Tinto. Credit:Bloomberg Brockman won the right to continue seeking access to the Pilbara rail infrastructure in September 2014, a decision that TPI appealed. On Monday, the court dismissed the appeal on all six grounds and ordered TPI to pay costs. Recall Holdings chief executive Doug Pertz is confident a $3.4 billion takeover from US rival Iron Mountain will proceed, despite the company delaying a shareholder vote on the deal. The document storage and data protection company has spent $US16.2 million ($22.7 million) on legal and accounting advice on the proposed takeover, sending its net profit down 49 per cent to $US16.7 million in the six months to December 31. Recall chief executive Doug Pertz is confident the company's takeover from Iron Mountain will gain regulatory approval. Credit:Daniel Munoz Mr Pertz said the transaction was "causing some short-term revenue headwinds", with customers delaying decisions until the deal's outcome became clearer. "Customers are not making a decision to leave other providers or deferring a decision to come to us because of the uncertainty about where we will be in the future," he said. The 2016 Defence White Paper, launched last week, has been much admired for being hard-nosed about China. But it is only the latest in a long line of defence policy documents since 1994 that have tried to address the implications of China's rise for Australia's defence needs. And like them, it has failed. So once again, Australia has been left drifting without a coherent response to the biggest shift in our strategic circumstances since the Second World War. But this failure is worse, because the problem is now even more acute, the need for an effective response even more urgent, and the policy analysis is even feebler than before. Illustration: Andrew Dyson In fact the new White Paper actually says less of any import about China's rise than the White Papers of 2000 and 2009. It offers no new or credible analysis of the immense changes now under way in the strategic regional order, and no new or credible proposals to respond to it. It boasts of $195 billion of new investment, but proposes no major new capabilities and no significant new funding. Plans for 12 new submarines, nine new frigates, the big amphibious force and the fleet of new fighters all date back to 2009 or before. The 10-year funding plan dates back to 2000, and so does the commitment to spend 2 per cent of GDP on defence. On the eve of the Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras one of the world's biggest celebrations of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex (LGBTI) pride and culture it's alarming that our current public discourse in relation to LGBTI people contains as much at which to be dismayed as there is in which to rejoice. Over recent weeks we have seen an extraordinary level of homophobia and transphobia playing out, both in the media and in what should be more progressive and enlightened policy debates. Unfortunately, the impacts of these attacks are very real, particularly for young and already vulnerable LGBTI people, who should be protected and made to feel safe. From the calculated divisiveness of the proposed marriage equality plebiscite through to the needless review of the highly successful national Safe Schools Coalition program, one could be forgiven for thinking LGBTI people are under attack. Basic principles of equality and inclusion not to mention evidence-based health, welfare and education policy are so easily being compromised by federal leaders who should know better. In the recent Corruption Perception Index Australia ranked 13 out of 170 countries. In 2012 it ranked seventh. It was the only country among the least corrupt countries to fall significantly in both rank and score. In general, rich countries ranked near the top, and poorer countries ranked at the bottom. When I teach my courses on corruption I start with a discussion about whether poverty causes corruption, or whether corruption causes poverty. About 40 per cent of Australians think corruption is on the increase. Credit:Alice Archer Globally corruption is big business and big politics. Corruption is estimated to cost 5 per cent of global GDP (about $2.6 trillion): about $1 trillion per year is paid in in bribes; the kleptocrats of this world skim about $40 billion per year. It adds trillions of dollars to the cost of doing business. I have enough Australian cases in my classes to illustrate most aspects of corruption. Are the Australian examples one-offs and isolated events, or part of something more pervasive? About 40 per cent of Australians think corruption is on the increase. It's quite possible that British voters have had enough of the European Union and will exit the EU in the forthcoming June referendum. The so called Brexit could lead to a domino effect. The Czechs might leave and maybe others. And within Britain, the Scots might start agitating for another referendum. The Brexit supporters have got John Howard on side and, in Britain, senior members of cabinet, London mayor Boris Johnson, former Tory leader Michael Howard - and there are others - are jumping on the Brexit bandwagon. Some bookies are reporting that the likelihood of an exit has jumped from 29 per cent to 33 per cent in the past week. Some polls are higher. Prime Minister David Cameron's campaign for a yes vote has got off to a bad start. He started by telling constituents to ignore their views on Brexit. More recently there was a letter in the press signed by a dozen former defence chiefs of staff saying that the EU was essential for defence and security. Unbelievably, nobody mentioned NATO. Then one of the brass told the papers that he was pressured into signing and that the letter was written by Downing Street. It emerged that a number of others declined to sign and Downing Street had to apologise to General Sir Michael Rose for including him as a signatory (to be called thereafter "administrative error") when he holds the opposing view Imagine the furore if a PM tried that sort of stunt in Australia; like Australians, the Poms don't like being kept in the dark by politicians. If I liken the immigration detention centres on Nauru and Manus Island to the US facility on Guantanamo Bay, even passionate advocates for those seeking asylum, such as human rights lawyer Julian Burnside dismiss my concerns: "Oh we're not as bad as that." But I would argue that we are indeed as bad as that, possibly worse. Many people fleeing persecution to seek asylum have been subjected to psychological trauma in the countries they are fleeing and in the often highly traumatic journeys they take to reach "freedom". However, people seeking asylum who are subjected to prolonged immigration detention are significantly more likely to suffer severe mental health problems than people seeking asylum who are not detained. Furthermore, the incidence of mental health problems increases with duration of incarceration. The United Nations defines torture as "any act by which severe pain or suffering, whether physical or mental, is intentionally inflicted on a person for such purposes as obtaining from him or a third person information or a confession, punishing him for an act he or a third person has committed or is suspected of having committed, or intimidating or coercing him or a third person, or for any reason based on discrimination of any kind, when such pain or suffering is inflicted by or at the instigation of or with the consent or acquiescence of a public official or other person acting in an official capacity. It does not include pain or suffering arising only from, inherent in or incidental to lawful sanctions." Since prolonged detention without trial is unlawful under international law, Australia's immigration detention policy clearly fulfils the key elements of the UN definition. The recent news that Victoria Police are investigating sexual abuse allegations against him ensured that George Pell's appearance via video link at the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse on Monday was not so much followed as intensely scrutinised. Sexual abuse survivors travelled to Rome to hear the Cardinal speak, and many media outlets opened live blogs on their websites to follow proceedings. The Victoria police allegations against the former Catholic archbishop of Sydney, now head of the Holy See's secretariat of the economy, weren't a topic for discussion, however. Instead, counsel assisting the royal commission Gail Furness wanted to know what Cardinal Pell knew about paedophile priests in Ballarat when he was a priest in the Victorian diocese, and when he knew about it. Cardinal Pell denied knowledge of paedophile priests, including Gerald Ridsdale, in the 1970s and early 1980s even when an adviser to the disgraced former bishop of Ballarat, Ronald Mulkearns. He admitted to hearing fleeting references, hearsay and allegations involving other priests and monsignors, but claimed he never knew the true extent of the graphic sexual nature of these. He also stated he was "not here to defend the indefensible" and that the Catholic Church had made enormous mistakes in the way it had reacted to and dealt with child sexual abuse in its ranks, activities which the royal commission has been chronicling in detail for three years. It's unsurprising Cardinal Pell should have been firm in his contradictions. He's been questioned twice before by the royal commission, and once by MPs at a Victorian parliamentary inquiry, and has always denied having known children were abused in Ballarat when he was there. Nor, he claims, was he involved in trying to buy an accuser's silence or taking part in discussions (led by Bishop Mulkearns) about moving abusive priests from one parish to another. Late in the morning of Monday, February 22, there was made an announcement of the government's position on Senate reform. My first reaction was one of anger at the cynicism and misrepresentation of the facts displayed by Malcolm Turnbull and Senator Mathias Cormann. On Thursday, February 25, I was invited by the Joint Standing Committee on Electoral Matters to appear on Tuesday March 1 to be questioned, along with other experts. The proposed changes to Senate voting will sharply restrict voters' choices. Credit:Jesse Marlow Anticipating this request I completed a 23-page document which I sent to the committee on the Thursday. However, as the (perhaps) unwise comments of the last two pages will be interpreted by the politicians, I was still simmering with anger on that day. It is my considered judgment, however, that Labor made the right call to oppose the Bill but Labor has a problem which I lack. Granted, some adults then might have trusted a priest's word above a child's. But Cardinal Pell's testimony revealed a deeper malaise. Despite knowing of abuse cases, and hearing the "gossip" among colleagues, he still believed adults with vested interests over the children or their carers. He even reminded the commission that the alleged offender John Day in Mildura had a strong body of supporters, including "a wonderful woman" whom the Cardinal knew. In his third appearance at the commission, the Cardinal admitted that "in those days if a priest denied (sexual abuse) activity I was strongly inclined to accept that denial". The suggestion was that Cardinal George Pell did not do more to help because he did not have enough detail. That is hardly a safety first approach. But the commission has yet to home in on the key questions raised by victims' testimony relating to the extent of Cardinal Pell's specific knowledge of abuse from the 1970s and whether he was open to accepting or acting on it. Cardinal George Pell has ceded just enough ground at the child abuse royal commission to give victims a glimmer of hope. There is a vague hint that senior Catholic Church leaders are seeing that the culture of turning a blind eye must change. While the Cardinal said he believed one particular boy who spoke of abuse at St Patrick's College in Ballarat and still recalls that student's name it was because "he was a good and honest lad. I didn't think he'd be telling lies". By inference, Cardinal Pell would not have believed other boys because they were less upstanding in his view. Such a prejudgment works against objective investigation of complaints and reinforces the culture of denial. To his credit, Cardinal Pell appeared more conciliatory and caring than in some previous public appearances. "I am not here to defend the indefensible," he said during testimony in Rome. "The church has made enormous mistakes and is working to remedy those. The church especially in Australia has mucked things up and has let people down." Too many complaints were dismissed and sometimes in absolutely scandalous circumstances, he said. Abuse such as that suffered by a 14-year-old boy at the hands of convicted paedophile priest Gerald Ridsdale was "terrible, and he's not alone. Many others suffered in a similarly terrible way. I deeply regret that The way (Ridsdale) was dealt with was a catastrophe for victims and for the church." The Cardinal was critical, too, of advisers to the former bishop of Ballarat, Ronald Mulkearns, who allowed alleged paedophile priest Day to transfer to another country parish just months after he had quit Mildura in disgrace. The church stands accused of orchestrating many similar moves for abusers. Cardinal Pell admitted the church had also relied too much on supposed psychological and psychiatric treatment for abusers. Yet many will wonder about the Cardinal's distinction between what he still describes as "gossip" he heard about child abuse which presumably did not require a response and direct allegations made by children, parents and church workers. This Defence white paper (or DWP16 to use the tough, no-nonsense abbreviation favoured by Defence) boasts tough resolve and dedicated commitment. It almost looks too good to be true. But guess what? It is. It's more of a confectioner's delight: sugar, cream, blancmange it seems as if there's something in it for everyone and yet at its heart it's just flummery. It is, in fact, a creation straight from the template Malcolm Turnbull's busy making his own. Perhaps that's why, like so much else produced by this government, it demonstrates a complete and widening gulf between reality and rhetoric. This is the third attempt (fourth, if you include Tony Abbott's truncated review) at producing a "comprehensive, complete, and definitive" review of defence in less than seven years. Nevertheless this one is, somehow, meant to be more authoritative than all the previous attempts. Unfortunately, although it's grandiloquent in boastfulness, like all those others it's built on the shallow foundation of political expediency. The Defence white paper is a recipe for fighting the wars of the past. Credit:Tamara Voninski The key to unlocking this simple fact is the headline grabber: the one hard commitment Turnbull's etched in stone and written in blood. His guarantee that defence spending will rise to two percent of GDP by financial year 21/22. Piffle! It's a rubbish commitment; pointless in so many ways and rubbish in others. So why make it and what does the very fact of its existence reveal about the dramatic and increasing disjunction between politics and policy in Australia today? Let's examine it piece by piece. Firstly, pretend the target's meaningful. Ask yourself where is the money coming from? Which hospital is going to be closed or who, precisely, is going to pay more tax? A spending pledge is worthless without money to pay for it, so what's Turnbull putting up to guarantee this splurge? His own house on Sydney harbour? A mansion tax to pay for any shortfall meeting this critical expenditure target? If the money doesn't come from tax rises it must come from slashing spending, so what's it to be: hospitals or pensions? This government insists it won't dodge the hard questions, so what's the answer? If you always do what you've always done, you'll always get what you've always got. That's exactly where we're at with our current approach to drugs here in Australia. We're hitting record drug seizures but we're barely putting a dent in the market. Some police suggest that for every one seizure another nine slip through. Even the Prime Minister and senior police are saying to us "we can't arrest our way out of this problem". Australians have an insatiable appetite when it comes to drugs. Studies show that we are world-leaders in drug consumption. We are the highest users of ecstasy, we're the third biggest amphetamine users and second only to the US with our opioid use. And there's no sign it's going to change anytime soon. Under the Howard government we saw signs of innovation. Drug diversion programs were put in place, drug courts were established and the ministerial council on drugs strategy led our response on the issue. There hasn't been much new thinking since then and the ministerial council was abandoned several years ago. Ian Thorpe has said he felt pressured into revealing his sexuality in a televised interview series, saying it was as though "people were trying to force [him] out of the closet". The former Olympian, who revealed he was attracted to men in an interview with British TV host Sir Michael Parkinson in 2014, told the Daily Telegraph he was not "sure" about his sexuality, but felt pressured to make the statement due to extensive rumours that he was gay. Former Olympian Ian Thorpe is now openly gay, and seems to have found love. Credit:Getty "I feel as though people were trying to force me out of the closet when I didn't even know myself. I really didn't, or at least I wasn't sure," Thorpe said. "I felt like if I'd been given a little bit more time, perhaps I would have comfortably been able to do it ... but I was just trying to fit in." The #OscarsSoWhite debate just might be the elephant in the corner at The 88th Academy Awards on Sunday night in Los Angeles, but Kevin Hart is wearing his views firmly on his sleeve. The actor and comedian, 36, shared a shot of him and his fiancee Eniko Parrish wearing matching all black ensembles and made no bones about the side he was firmly backing, hashtagging: "All black for a reason". "Sheeeessshhh..... Dress 2 impress with my partner in crime!!! #Oscars #AllBlackForaReason #MeAndMyRib #comedicrockstarshit #DopePic," he said. The value of the nation's farm production is tipped to pass $60 billion next financial year for the first time, with farm exports expected to earn about $45 billion. According to a new report from the Australian Bureau of Agricultural and Resource Economics (ABARES), beef and veal exports will be the nation's biggest agriculture export earner in 2016-17, with exports valued at $8.8 billion. Wheat exports are tipped to be the second biggest agricultural export earner. Credit:Simon O'Dwyer Wheat exports are tipped to be the second biggest agricultural export earner, with export volumes up slightly and a total value of $5.6 billion. Australian may have hopped off the sheep's back years ago, but exports of Australian wool are forecast to rise handsomely in 2016-17, up 7 per cent, to about $3.7 billion. The latest "Agricultural Commodities" report is also a reminder of the crucial role of agriculture in the national economy in the wake of a downturn in the mining industry. By way of comparison, Australian iron ore exports are tipped to be worth $47.2 billion this financial year, a decline of 13.5 per cent on last financial year, and not much above the value of farm export earnings (at $45 billion). Parramatta can hardly be called a CBD and it is no good thinking it will ever be a slice of central Sydney, an international city planning expert says. Professor Peter Rees, who was the City of London's chief planning officer for 29 years, also criticised the Baird government's plan to relocate the Powerhouse Museum from Ultimo to Parramatta saying "fix the place first". "You need to get people into that pretty dead area and I would be doing that before building some magnificent cultural project," Professor Rees told Fairfax Media. "Fix the place first and then if you need one build an Opera House." A Sydney courier suspected of being at the centre of a group of dangerous radicals has been arrested after he accessed extremist material online. Ahmad Saiyer Naizmand, 21, was subjected to a terrorism control order last year after his home was raided during Operation Appleby in 2014 and he was convicted of using his brother's passport to travel to the Middle East. Ahmed Saiyer Naizmand is taken away from Burwood Local Court on March 1 Credit:Peter Rae The order was due to expire on Sunday, one year after it was implemented. He was charged on Monday night with breaching the terms of the order at least five times between January 11 and February 24 by accessing extremist material online, including propaganda or promotional material for Islamic State and electronic media depicting beheadings, explosives, suicide attacks or bombings. Mystery surrounds the drowning death of a woman and the near death of her companion in the pool of a Cairns resort. The two women were found underwater at a resort in White Rock on Thursday last week, just minutes after they'd asked a staff member to take their photo. When the staff member returned a few minutes later, he spotted both women under the water and dived in to pull them out. CPR was administered to both women before they were rushed to hospital where one, believed to be aged about 50, later died. Queensland's native wildlife have a special spot in most people's hearts, but for one woman they held a special spot in her stomach. Born in Sydney in 1851, Wilhelmina Frances Rawson moved to Queensland after she married into a family of early settlers of the Pioneer River at Mackay in 1872. Wilhelmina (Mrs Lance Rawson) and Winifred Rawson with goats at The Hollow, Mackay. Credit:State Library of Queensland It was here she expanded her culinary talents from beef and chicken to iguana and flying fox. Mrs Lance Rawson's The Queensland Cookery and Poultry Book, first published in 1878 and recently digitised by State Library Queensland, lists the numerous ways Queensland's native wildlife and flora could be incorporated into western style dishes of pies and curries. A Melbourne man who police alleged spoke about killing his fiancee's ex-partner and using a home-made crematorium to dispose of the body has pleaded guilty to paying an undercover officer to kidnap his would-be victim. Adrian Oorloff, 47, on Monday pleaded guilty to inciting another person to kidnap, but Melbourne Magistrates Court heard a charge of inciting another person to murder had been withdrawn. Melbourne Magistrates Court heard Adam Oorloff paid an undercover officer $5000 to kidnap his fiance's ex-partner. Credit:Penny Stephens In August last year, Oorloff paid the undercover officer $5000 to kidnap the man, a previous court hearing was told, and spoke about knowing how to dispose of the man's body. Oorloff also pleaded guilty to two charges of possessing prohibited poisons, two of possessing a drug of dependence and single counts of trafficking methylamphetamine and possessing cartridge ammunition. A man has admitted stealing World War II service medals from a 70-year-old man he bashed during a home invasion. Howard Bux on Monday pleaded guilty to charges over an aggravated burglary in Reservoir on August 9 last year during which he broke into a unit, assaulted the occupant and stole RAAF service medals and other items worth $5000. The medals, which reportedly were awarded to the victim's father, were recovered in the days after the incident. Bux, 49, pleaded guilty in Melbourne Magistrates Court to aggravated burglary, false imprisonment, recklessly causing injury, intentionally damaging property, robbery and breaching bail. Prosecutors withdrew three other charges. "Earlier there was an aspect of welfare; at the moment it is correction," he said. Australian Border Force took over the management of the centre in July 2015, at the same time as the Department of Immigration and Border Protection merged with the Australian Customs and Border Protection Service. The day-to-day running of Maribyrnong falls to Serco, a private security firm that has contracts at a number of detention centres. A Department of Immigration and Border Protection spokesman said Border Force had a "more active role" in all levels of management, with the government agency directing "day-to-day operations" and "working directly with service providers" to ensure the facility was "safe and secure". The Department's spokesman said the detention centre's population was changing with more "high risk detainees" prompting the government to "implement a range of controls to mitigate any violent or criminal behaviour". He said this included the separation of detainees and "certain cohorts" and "controlled movements" within the centre. "The Department is committed to the good order of the detention network, and will continue to work with Serco to ensure that Australia's immigration detention facilities are as safe and secure as we can make them," he said. "This includes ensuring that appropriately trained Serco officers have access to safety and security equipment, including personal protective equipment." As Fairfax Media revealed in January, Maribyrnong detention centre has a higher incidence of use of restrains and handcuffs than at any other detention facility under the control of the federal government. The source said the staff were increasingly being forced to act like prison officers, despite being hired as client service officers. "There are a lot of people who have got a lot of issues with the kind of work they have to do," he said. "Staff are always on edge." He said close to one-third of the staff had been on stress leave in the past year, with some returning to administrative and light duties work since. Broken security infrastructure and caring for mentally ill patients also increased the pressure on staff, he said. Confidential documents seen by Fairfax Media reveal that over a three-week period in July 2015, many of the centre's cameras and alarms were faulty, despite repeated complaints to Serco management. In one instance, as many as 82 of the 135 cameras were not working over a 24-hour period, with 67 cameras not recording, and 15 not connected in the day. During the night, 71 cameras were not recording and 13 were not connected. One of the entries by an officer states that it was discovered the camera was not recording "after an attempted escape". The logs also show that on three separate occasions, two detainees who were on a "high imminent" suicide watch were kept in a room with no cameras to monitor them. The source said there was also a lack of adequate care for mentally ill detainees at the centre. "If somebody is on a suicide watch they have people observing them but there is no medical staff looking after them." The Department's spokesman would not say how many of the staff had been on stress leave in the past three years; however, he said, staff had access to free counselling services. The spokesman said the Department took very seriously "its duty of care" towards the detainees and provided them with medical and mental health services "equal to, or above" those available to Australians. This included "constant person-to-person supervision" for those at risk of self-harm. He said all cameras and alarms were checked daily and maintained monthly, quarterly and annually, with set timeframes for contractors to carry out any repairs. He said all the cameras and alarms were working as at February 23. United Voice Victorian Secretary Jess Walsh said stress levels at Maribyrnong amongst detention officers were rising. Ms Walsh urged national Serco management to step in and provide support. A squat on the banks of the Yarra River all but vacated when most of its occupants moved into new accommodation is being settled again with a fresh wave of homeless people, while a new camp has sprung up nearby, in the heart of Melbourne's office district. People are sleeping in a rubbish-filled recess beneath the vacant 555 Collins Street office building, next to the Rialto Towers. But without intensive work in recent months to find accommodation for dozens of rough sleepers, things could have been much worse and the squats much larger, say experts. A couple sleep through the mid-morning on the corner of Collins and King Streets. Credit:Justin McManus Since March 2015, Launch Housing, with the help of other agencies, has found emergency or long-term accommodation for more than 100 people previously sleeping rough in the inner city. Launch Housing deputy chief executive Heather Holst said that without this work there would be "literally hundreds of people" sleeping in doorways, train stations, parks and squats and under bridges around Melbourne's inner city. The most recent, a 17-year-old Coburg girl, died in hospital on Sunday after running into a moving taxi in Northcote on Saturday night. Police data shows that 32 people died on the state's roads this month, making it the worst month for road deaths since October 2012. This February has been Victoria's worst single month for road deaths in more than three years. And on Saturday, an 18-year-old Traralgon man died in The Alfred from injuries sustained when the ute he was driving rolled down an embankment in Grand Ridge the previous night. Three other people were in the vehicle at the time and were rushed to La Trobe Regional Hospital, an Ambulance Victoria spokeswoman said. She said a woman had been in a serious but stable condition after sustaining facial and back injuries, while the other two male passengers were in a stable condition from leg and minor injuries. A La Trobe Hospital spokeswoman said the male passengers had since been discharged, while the 18-year-old woman has been transferred to The Alfred but remains in a stable condition. Teenagers were over-represented in this month's road toll: A total of seven people aged between 17 and 20 died on the state's roads in separate incidents. The security guard booted savagely in the head by a teenage festival-goer in Claremont on Sunday says he's still suffering considerable pain from the horrifying incident. Michael Rigby, a 56-year-old grandfather, was attempting to stop gatecrashers at the Good Life festival at the Claremont Showgrounds, when he got involved in a scuffle on the ground with one fence-jumper. Shocking video emerged on Monday of a defenseless Mr Rigby then being kicked in the head by another teenager, who then runs off as the security guard slumps to the ground, seemingly unconscious. "Lights out," Mr Rigby told Nine News Perth of his ordeal. Berlin: Germany is threatening to close its borders to asylum seekers in an attempt to persuade other governments to do more to solve the migrant crisis. While the German Chancellor, Angela Merkel, continues to insist she wants to keep Europe's borders open, plans leaked to a German newspaper on Sunday suggest her government is drawing up measures to reinstate its own national controls. In what Welt am Sonntag called a "clear threat to the EU", sources said Germany was considering turning away asylum seekers at the border. Such a move could leave countries that have been critical of Mrs Merkel's "open-door" refugee policy struggling to cope with hundreds of thousands of migrants. New Delhi/Washington: India and the United States are closing in on an agreement to share military logistics after 12 years of talks, officials say, a sign of strengthening defence ties between the countries as China becomes increasingly assertive. The US has emerged as India's top arms source after years of dominance by Russia, and holds more joint exercises with it than any other country. It is in talks with New Delhi to help build its largest aircraft carrier in the biggest military collaboration to date, a move that will bolster the Indian Navy's strength as China expands its reach in the Indian Ocean. After years of foot-dragging by previous governments over fears that the logistics agreement would draw India into a binding commitment to support the US in war, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration had signalled a desire to move ahead with the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA). Baghdad: Dozens of people have killed in two bombings at a crowded market in a Shiite neighbourhood of Baghdad, the police said. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks. A parked motorcycle exploded at 3:30pm Sunday local time at the Mredy market, in the Sadr City district of the Iraqi capital. Shortly afterward, a suicide bomber exploded a device as bystanders tended to the victims of the first attack. At least 42 people were killed and another 95 were injured in the two attacks, according to a police officer who requested anonymity. People gather at the scene of a bombing in Sadr City, Baghdad on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016. Credit:AP In a statement posted online, the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying they were carried out by two suicide bombers. "Our swords will not stop slaughtering the heads of apostates wherever they are," the statement said. Mohammed al-Kaaby, 45, an explosive expert in the army who witnessed the attacks, described seeing "lightning followed by a huge explosion" and then "people's bodies and blood all over the place". Torque gets cosy with fashion logistics deal LOGISTICS firm Torque has tied into a contract with Scottish fashion brand Ness Clothing. Torque is partnering with womens fashion company Ness, which has more than 200 stockists, with 15 stores. It will provide services to Ness from its Leeds distribution centre. Torque turns over 60m. It employs 900 staff across sites in Leeds, Bradford and Wakefield. Kenny Baillie, managing director, Ness Clothing said: This year we increased the number of our stores from 10 to 15 and we plan to increase that further to between 30-40 stores over the next 5 years. To achieve this we required a logistics and warehousing partner who could meet our needs today and also meet our needs in the future. Despite Torques own growth they seem focused on making sure that their customers are giving the right level of care and attention and to build partnerships. Stewart Firth, director at Torque, said: We are excited to be partnering with Ness and be a part of their growth plans. It is a great brand and we are looking forward to working together as the company grows. Torque includes clients such as La Redoute, Sweaty Betty, TM Lewin and Pringle of Scotland. LOGISTICS firm Torque has tied into a contract with Scottish fashion brand Ness Clothing. Torque is partnering with womens fashion company Ness, which has more than 200 stockists, with 15 stores. It will provide services to Ness from its Leeds distribution centre. Torque turns over 60m. It employs 900 staff across sites in Leeds, Bradford and Wakefield. Kenny Baillie, managing director, Ness Clothing said: This year we increased the number of our stores from 10 to 15 and we plan to increase that further to between 30-40 stores over the next 5 years. To achieve this we required a logistics and warehousing partner who could meet our needs today and also meet our needs in the future. Despite Torques own growth they seem focused on making sure that their customers are giving the right level of care and attention and to build partnerships. Stewart Firth, director at Torque, said: We are excited to be partnering with Ness and be a part of their growth plans. It is a great brand and we are looking forward to working together as the company grows. Torque includes clients such as La Redoute, Sweaty Betty, TM Lewin and Pringle of Scotland. CHISINAU, Moldova The first time it happened Karina was 9 years old. She was naked, getting dressed in her room after taking a bath. The door opened and her drunken father burst in, pushing her, touching her, whispering: If you tell anyone, I will kill you. She did not even understand what was going on, except that her father was violent, again. When the mother returned home from a hospital, where she received antibiotic treatment for tuberculosis, she asked her husband why his pants were unzipped and the girl was naked, crying in her bed. The drunken father pretended he had no idea. As she talked, Karinas fingers constantly toyed with pieces of plastic and little threads sticking out of her bead bracelets shed made for herself. She is now 14 years old, looking back on a life that seemed like an eternity of torture. I learned to keep the secret, to stay silent about him raping me, she said. Every time he did, he was very drunk and I cried, asking him to stop; but my mother was drunk and could not hear him. My father was big and often beat my mother bloody in front of me and my two brothers and my older sister, Karina told The Daily Beast in a crisis shelter. Police and social workers hear such stories in many countries around the world, but here in Moldova they are especially common, reflecting conditions in a society on the verge of collapse where abuse is common inside families, and, outside, human trafficking has become common. Karinas psychologist, Lidia Gorceag, tells us, Her father was not a pedophile, he was a ruin, an example of ultimately degraded personality. Karina was in her third week at the crisis center, working on her gymnastics and acrobatic jumps, and on writing poetry when she was not studying in school. Sometimes Karinas mother saw her husband raping their daughter, but did not call for police. Neither did the relatives, nor Karinas teachers at the institution for children of parents sick with tuberculosis. Karinas eyes filled up with tears. A woman had volunteered to give her foster care, but one of her teachers told her that I was worse than any other kid because I had slept with my father. Last year Karinas father finally was convicted and sentenced to 18 years in prison. Karina was taken away from her alcoholic mother and put in this crisis center, which is a temporary shelter that houses, since the beginning of the year, some 500 victims. Thats nearly twice as many as last year. One of the other girls is a 13-year-old who told The Daily Beast she needed shelter, Because I saw how my grandfather baked my grandmother alive in the stove; and then he took an ax and broke my mothers skull. Her mother, she said, has become schizophrenic as a result of her trauma. Moldovan social workers say that such kids are easy prey for human traffickers, and the statistics bear them out. Moldova is among the countries with the highest incidence of human trafficking in Europe. Since 2000, the International Organization for Migration (IOM) mission in Moldova has assisted 3,244 victims of domestic violence and human sex traffic both local and foreign citizens. There were years when dozens of young women arrived back home, after long days and nights living as sex slaves in Europe, Turkey or the Middle East, sometimes without seeing their own children for years. I am currently assisting two women, age 42 and 39, who lived slaving for gypsies in the Moscow region for 11 years, being used as professional beggars or pushing wheelchairs with disabled people, asking for money in the streets, said Gorceag, the psychologist at the center. They often did not have enough to eat, they were cold, they were rarely paid money. But they originally went to Russia, because traffickers promised them good jobs. In 2015 the IOM in Moldova assisted 44 sexually exploited victims of human trafficking. In the last couple of years, the Chisinau crises center staff began to notice that the second generation of victims, children of once-exploited women, now came for help with their own troubles. Many children, nearly every third child in Moldova, grows up without their parents, as parents go abroad to find jobs, said Irina Arap, an IOM repatriation specialist. Gorceag has worked at the crises shelter supported by IOM since the day it opened 15 years ago. That was a time of economic crises. Factories closed down, there were no jobs in Moldova, and a vast exodus began of young women looking for any opportunity to make money in Western Europe, Turkey, and the Middle East. Some people were so desperate that they were ready to sell their organs. Up to half a million of Moldovas 3.6 million citizens are working in Russia, but the economic crisis there has caused migrants wages to go down by more than 30 percent. Over 800,000 Moldavians worked abroad, globally, competing with millions of migrants from Africa and the Middle East who are willing to risk their health and lives. In 1999, Gheorghi Ungureanu sold his kidney for $3,000. Ungureanu believed that traffickers would find him a job in Israel, but instead, he ended up in Turkey, where his kidney was removed for what he later realized was a miserable price. In 2001 we were dealing with the most complicated versions and routes of sex traffic and the human organ trade, Gorceag recalled. There were days when charter planes brought up to 25 victims back to Chisinau; many of them had not seen their kids for years. So we provided them with a shelter. Even so, some of her patients suffered dramatic breakdowns, requiring extensive psychiatric help. Today, Moldova has a law against human trafficking, but the agents exploiting men and women have found plenty of loopholes. Traffickers are always one step ahead of us, the Gorceag told The Daily Beast. Moldovan girls as young as 14 are being exploited as sex slaves, forced to have sex with 12 to 15 men a night. Karinas life could be different. But there is little funding to support her care. In the past few weeks, the state purchased clothes for her. But it is preparing to send Karina to a permanent orphanage in a poor and remote southern region of Moldova. Unfortunately, we cannot keep Karina here and continue to help her develop her talents, said Gorceag. The state ran out of funding, so the entire new building for child victims stands ready, but there is no money to open it. What will become of the girl? She is so traumatized, she is a potential target for traffickers, said Gorceag, almost as if such a fate is inevitable. That is not Karinas vision of her future. She says she wants to become a cosmetologist. She wants to write poems. In the meantime, she keeps a diary. On one page she has written, I have never experienced parental love. HONG KONG On the horn of Africa, as you may have read, the tiny nation of Djibouti, home to American, French, German, Italian, and Japanese military bases, is about to welcome the Chinese as well. Last November, China and Djibouti reached an agreement to set up a naval base in the Obock region in the north of the country, where an American outpost was evicted last August. The U.S. base that remains, called Camp Lemmonier, costs the United States $70 million a year in lease fees and development aid. For 10,000 Chinese troops to move in to East Africa, Beijing promised the completion of a $3 billion railroad to connect Djibouti with the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, and a $400 million investment to expand and modernize the East African nations port. This will be the first overseas military installation of the Peoples Republic. Chinese officials say the base will be a logistics and supply center, which sounds innocuous enough. But its location has major strategic significance: south of the Suez Canal at the mouth of the Red Sea, facing the Gulf of Aden and the Somali coastline. In fact, whoever controls Djiboutis strategic position controls a key chokepoint of global trade. Even if China doesnt present its project that way, clearly thats the attraction. Mahamoud Ali Youssouf, the foreign minister of Djibouti, told the press, The goal of the base is to fight against pirates, and most of all, to secure the Chinese ships using this very important strait that is important to all the countries in the world. For Djibouti, he added, China is an additional strategic ally. Those Chinese ships Youssouf was referring to are carrying oil, and lots of it. By taking advantage of crashing commodities prices, China has been buying up the worlds petroleum. Last year, Bloomberg reported that China purchased half a million barrels of crude in excess of its daily needs in the first seven months of 2015. In the current economic downturn that is rocking markets across the world, China is saving $460 billion per year in its purchase of commodities, about $320 billion of which is from cheap oil. Chinas new base in Djibouti can be seen as part of its policy in Africa and the Middle East. Last December, Chinese President Xi Jinping pledged $60 billion in funding to Chinas partners in Africa. The next month, he visited Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and Iran. For many years, Saudi Arabia was Chinas biggest supplier of crude oil (Russia now periodically displaces the kingdom in that role), with bilateral trade reaching $69.1 billion in 2014. China will lend the Central Bank of Egypt $1 billion to prop up Egypts foreign reserves. Xi was the first foreign head of state to visit Tehran after sanctions on Iran were lifted, leaving with 17 signed agreements to increase bilateral trade to $600 billion in the next decade. Beyond commerce, Beijing has also taken an interest in Middle Eastern geopolitical affairs. Xi announced his support for a full Palestinian state with East Jerusalem as its capital, and has made new forays into the Afghanistan peace process. State media say China is never absent in contribution to peace and development in the Middle East, and is eager to share Chinese wisdom to solve Middle East problems. Another way to view Chinas new base in Obock is as an element of Chinese naval expansion, driven by conflicting territorial claims closer to home, and the desire to counter American influence in its backyard and regions where Chinese trade is seen as a matter of national security. On the final day of 2015, a Chinese Defense Ministry spokesperson announced that the navys second aircraft carrier was being built in Dalian, a city in northeastern China. The first, the Liaoning, was built by the Soviet Union, purchased from Ukraine in 1998, then refitted by Beijing. This second ship will be built entirely in China, although its design is a copy of a Soviet-era vessel with some modern touches. It is lighter than the Liaoning but with a slightly larger flight deck. Chinas J-15 fighter jet pilots and carrier crew have been training on the Liaoning, and the Chinese military announced in late-December that it is now able to operate ship-borne aircraft. Conflicting claims to islands, reefs and rocks in the East and South China Seas have set off verbal battles between neighbors in East and Southeast Asia, and those spats are constantly on the verge of escalation. From July to September last year, Japanese jets scrambled 117 times to prevent incursions by Chinese jets over the islands known as Senkaku in Japan and Diaoyu in China. Beijing has built artificial islands in the South China Sea to strengthen its claim to existing island chains. Following the USS Lassens freedom of navigation operation near the Spratly Islands, which China calls Nansha and claims as part of its territory, Chinas naval commander, Admiral Wu Shengli, told his American counterpart, Admiral John Richardson, that a minor incident could spark war if the United States does not halt provocative acts. Last month, the USS Curtis Wilbur, made a similar pass near the Paracel Islands. Navy Capt. Jeff Davis said the operation was about challenging excessive maritime claims that restrict the rights and freedoms of the United States and others, not about territorial claims to land features. Chinese Ministry of Defense spokesperson Yang Yujun said the American ships patrol damaged the peaceful, safe, and good order in relevant waters and is not beneficial to regional peace and stability. More recently, the Chinese military placed two batteries of eight missile launchers, plus a sophisticated radar system, on Woody Island, which is part of the contested Paracel Island chain. When Secretary of State John Kerry met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi in Beijing in late-January, Wang reiterated Chinese President Xi Jinpings commitment to avoid the militarization of the South China Seaa pledge made during Xis September visit to the U.S. last year. Wang also said China had built civil installations in the South China Sea, then added ominously, International law has given all sovereign countries the right to self-defense. By Beijings logic, missile batteries make the South China Sea a safer place. China is eager to expand its wartime capabilities, in fact. In the military publication PLA Daily, a researcher at the Peoples Liberation Armys Naval Military Academic Research Institute said the country needs at least three aircraft carriers in rotation for naval patrols, training, and maintenance. However, analysts in the U.S. predict a much more viral rate of expansion. Under directions from Congress, the Pentagon commissioned an independent assessment of American strategy in the Asia-Pacific region. The Center for Strategic and International Studies produced that report in January. The study warns that the South China Sea will be virtually a Chinese lake by 2030, because there will be so many Chinese aircraft carriers operational by then. A base in Djibouti, or any other location open to hosting the PLAN (the suggestive, if coincidental, acronym for the Peoples Liberation Army Navy) would be necessary to project that power beyond Chinas immediate neighborhood. Ultimately, Chinas base in Djibouti is a component of Xi Jinpings flagship One Belt, One Road initiative. Superficially that looks like a project to deepen economic ties between China and many of its trade partners. But consider the series of ports that China is building, has developed, or expressed interest in. China is building Colombo Port City, a patch of land to be reclaimed off the shore of Sri Lankas capital, and will own Port City when it is operational. China has ambitions to transform Bangladeshs Chittagong port. (That may not happen. Japan might have established a foothold there already.) A Chinese state-owned enterprise signed a 40-year lease for control of the Gwadar Port free trade zone in Pakistan. China invested $2.5 billion in a port on Maday Island in Burma to secure an oil and gas pipeline in Yunnan Province. China uses Port Victoria in the Seychelles as a refueling point for anti-piracy operations, and gifted a purpose-built vessel to the Seychelles Coast Guard for patrols. A decade-old Booz Allen Hamilton report calls these ports part of Chinas string of pearlsa network of facilities that run through major maritime chokepoints and strategic locations. What we see now is the PLAN expanding westward. China says it maintains a non-interventionist principle in its foreign policy, but when Chinese troops set foot in Djibouti, it will be clear that Xis One Belt, One Road economic plan has a strong military component, setting a disturbing precedent where China attempts to exert dominance of global shipping routes, both economically and militarily. For the Chinese navy, that means a significant adjustment to their role. Not only are they meant to secure Beijings interests in the East and South China Seas, the Chinese navy is now also a tool of power projection around the globe. The last time Hind Aboud Kabawat saw her mentor Father Paolo DallOglio alive, she felt her heart squeeze in pain. The Italian priest who had for 30 years made his home and clerical reputation in Syria was depositing her at Ataturk International Airport, in Istanbul, when he forgot the spiritual form their physical leave-taking always took: prayer. Father Paolo would place his crucifix on Kabawats head and chin, and then they would ask the divine to guide them in their daily struggles. Perhaps he was in haste to get her onto her return flight to her hometown of Toronto, but the rite this time slipped his mind. So Kabawat, an Orthodox Christian, reminded the gray-bearded Jesuit and hero of the Syrian people of the valedictory benediction. Father Paolo lovingly obliged. That was three years ago. The priest was snatched by ISIS not long thereafter while walking through the streets of the caliphates capital of Raqqa. He had smuggled himself back into Syria after being kicked out by Bashar al-Assad, Kabawat says, to try to negotiate the release of captive journalists, and was convinced he could reason with the jihadists. Kabawat is a natural-born worrier, and Father Paolo used to call her Martha, after the sister described in the Gospel of Luke as cumbered about many things whom Jesus visits at her home. Unlike her attentive sibling Mary, Martha neglects the saviors counsel. But now the roles were somewhat reversed, and the emissary of Christ was the one who wouldnt listen. One neednt have been especially preoccupied or put-upon to fear an audience with ISIS. This was 2013we didnt really know who they were. But still I told him, Dont do it face to face. He said, No, no, no. If, after three days, you dont hear from me, then something bad will have happened. Something bad did. The echo here with the resurrection may have been intentional, though its hard to associate Father Paolo with the megalomania of one comparing himself to his avowed role model. On this score, Kabawat is definitive: He was always telling me, Hind, we cant be sitting and lecturing others. We need to go to the people. Because this is freedom and democracy, from the people to the people. This is exactly what Jesus wants and what Jesus did. He did not sit in his home. Father Paolo certainly didnt hang about the house, either, even as he spent the better part of 30 years tending to it. He singlehandedly transformed the Deir Mar Musa al-Habashithe name means Saint Moses the Abyssinianmonastery in Nabk, a town 50 miles north of Damascus, from a desert outpost of Syriac Catholicism into an internationally celebrated inter-faith cultural center. Its portico was traversed by parishioners of all confessions, denominations, and sects, and from all nationalities. During Ramadan 2011, Kabawat traveled to Deir Mar Musa and personally witnessed Ismailis, the practitioners of a branch of Shia Islam who had stood with the anti-Assad protest movement, as well as Christians hiding out from the mukhabarat, or secret police, the worst perpetrators of state brutality. The Syrian uprising was then still in its infancy but already the opposition, made up of both protesters and defectors from Assads army, was starting to fight back. Father Paolo knew that theyd eventually radicalize and threaten the entire edifice of their noble project. The fight for freedom, as he later put it, will be transformed in a civil war, and this will create space for all kinds of extremisms and crimes against humanity and disasters. So he urged an end to violence. I remember that we talked about hudna, Kabawat says, using the Arabic word for calm, which connotes a cessation of hostilities. He said during Ramadan you have to stop fighting, in the old Islamic tradition. This is very funny because its like now, she says. We were speaking Sunday night, the second day into an already violated two-week truce orchestrated by the United States and Russia, which no one seriously believes will prove a tourniquet on Syrias five years of bloodshed. Then we prayed. Each one of us prayed for something different. I prayed to stop the violence and killing. He said, I will pray for our sons and daughters who are in the prisons. He meant the regimes. Not many Christian prelates openly sided with Assads victims or the revolution. But Father Paolo did, much to the embarrassment of other religious institutions, which, at their best, could only mouth platitudes about restoring peace while assigning no blame to the original war-maker. When popular Syrian filmmaker and dissident Bassel Shahade was killed in Homs in 2012, his mourners at St. Cyrils Church in Damascus were arrested or scattered by regime agents. The churchs Melkite Greek Catholic leadership refused to protest the assault on its own holy ground. So Father Paolo let Shahades memorial service proceed at Deir Mar Musa. For that crime, Damascus issued him a one-way visa out. Had he been a native-born Syrian and not an Italian, he might well have been killed for such a heresy against a long-established collusion between holy orders and the mukhabarat, a subject he addressed trenchantly from exile. He apprehended early on what most Western journalists and policymakers did not, namely that Assad was no opponent of jihadism but rather its principal underwriter. The regime had created a see-through myth that any challengers to its totalitarian rule were operatives of al Qaeda, even if they were graffiti-daubing schoolchildren or 13-year-old boys running water to protesters in Deraa. The regime then set about reifying this myth by letting terrorists out of its jails (but not the political prisoners Father Paolo banged on about) and waging expressly sectarian, anti-Sunni pogroms across Syria. In 2012, Father Paolo wrote to Kofi Annan, then the UNs special envoy and a man fecklessly trying to sew together one of the first (failed) ceasefires, you know better than anyone else that the international Islamic terrorism is one of the many streams of the global illegality-opacity (market of drugs, weapons, organs, human beings, finance, raw materials). The interconnected marshland of the diverse secret services is contiguous to the galaxy of criminality, often characterized ideologically and/or religiously. It is surprising that a few days were enough for high-ranking UN officials to accept the al-Qaida thesis regarding the suicide attacks in Syria. As for Assad, the soi-disant defender of minorities, Father Paolo was not fooled. He pointed to the Syrian armys mortar destruction of ancient churches in Homs and its forced displacement of 150,000 Christians from that city. How can we stay silent? he asked in The New York Times after his expulsion from Syria. We are in solidarity with the repression, not only because we dont denounce the repression, but also because we negate there is repression. Famously, he publicly identified the sinister Sister Agnes Mariam, the Carmelite nun who denounced the opposition from her perch as mother superior of a monastery in Qara, not far from his, as an agent of Syrian intelligence. Sister Agnes is very careful when she speaks and this isand I wish to repeat and emphasize thisnothing more than a clever example of the lying, manipulative work of the Syrian regime, he told the German website Qantara in 2013. Sister Agnes states she is the head of a movement that is not present in the country and is called Musalaha or Reconciliation. This is a serious problem because her interpretation of events is selective and she believes the revolution is terrorism! This was five months before Agnes would gain global notoriety as the purveyor contradictory conspiracy theories about the Ghouta chemical weapons attacks (she said they were both faked and perpetrated by the rebels) and well before shed help deliver starved inhabitants of the besieged rebel town of Moadamiyah, Damascus, into the hands of the security services. (Prior to all this, she was also implicated in the regimes murder of French journalist Gilles Jacquier.) Other priests were jealous of him, Kabawat tells me. Father Paolo was very popular with the poor. He didnt ask permission. There is corruption with the church. Lots of links between them and Syrian intelligence because the bishopric wants to protect itself. Today the priests fate remains the subject of periodic rumormongering and unsubstantiated allegation. Sometimes hes reported alive and well, held by the worlds leading jihadist organization in one of its prisons because even Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi is fearful of killing a Christian so beloved by Syrians. Sometimes Father Paolo is said to be dead, his body dumped into an ossuary reserved for slain regime operatives and soldiers. But the hope that he still draws breath somewhere is persuasive enough to have impelled Pope Francis to plead for his release in a Vatican sermon last July. If hes dead, hes dead, Kabawat says. If hes alive and is going to come back, then he comes back. We have to follow his principles. To love the others, to build bridges with the others. To cross the line and make peace and make reconciliation. This was his favorite word. It may also be the reason that he could not abide by Sister Agness perversion of it. The Assad regime wants us to hate the Muslim people, they want the Muslims to hate us. But Father Paolo taught us we must do everything to keep the nation together. Has there ever been an election like this one? The 2016 race is ferocious, rude, ugly, with parties and coalitions fracturing before our eyes. Its also the first contest in years where public anger is trained on how government works and not just what it does. The state of democracy is on the ballot. Bernie Sanders denounces the billionaire class and demands campaign finance reform. Donald Trump snarls, Washington is broken and brags that as a self-funder, he cannot be bought. Hillary Clinton, more muted, rolls out detailed plans for campaign finance changes and automatic voter registration. To add to the intensity, the looming Supreme Court nomination fight will tap public anger over Citizens United, the courts most reviled recent decision. All just two years after an election in which voter turnout plunged to its lowest level in seven decades. It might seem strange that the state of democracy itself might loom large as an election issue. But todays arguments are not new. In fact, raucous debates over who should vote and how have always stood at the center of American politics. Intense focus on how Americans can improve their democracy seems to happen every half-century or so. Outsiders find a way to crash the political system, often through key elections, with inequality of wealth or power spurring a sharp move forward. These battles have always been about more than formal rules. Voting laws have been seen as entwined with issues of the power of money in elections, gerrymandering, and other ways the system distorts decisions. For more than two centuries its been a raw and often rowdy struggle for power. Some of the heroes would have been more at home in House of Cards than in Selma. At times the breakthroughs came when sharp-eyed operatives realized that greater participation was in their enlightened self-interest. The fight for the vote has always been deeply, properly political. *** Numerous issues divided the Founders from the start. (See Cabinet battles #1 and #2 in Hamilton.) Among them: the rules for choosing the new government. Arguments first focused on the role of wealth in elections. At the time, only white men who owned property could vote. In 1776 John Adams shuddered at the idea of extending voting rights beyond that. There will be no end of it, he warned. New claims will arise. Women will demand a vote. Lads from 12 to 21 will think their rights not enough attended to, and every man, who has not a farthing, will demand an equal voice with any other in all acts of state. James Madison was queasy, toobut only behind the closed doors of the Constitutional Convention. In future times, he worried, a great majority of the people will not only be without landed, but any other sort of, property. These will either combine under the influence of their common situation; in which case, the rights of property and the public liberty will not be secure in their hands: or which is more probable, they will become the tools of opulence and ambition, in which case there will be equal danger on another side. (Sanders and Trump?) Benjamin Franklin angrily put a stop to any talk of a wealth test for voting. Some of the greatest rogues he was ever acquainted with, were the richest rogues, he told the delegates. Madison offered a different spin when arguing for the Constitution to the public. In fact, he mouthed Franklins democratic credo. Who are to be the electors of the federal representatives? he asked in the Federalist Papers. Not the rich, more than the poor; not the learned, more than the ignorant; not the haughty heirs of distinguished names, more than the humble sons of obscurity and unpropitious fortune. The electors are to be the great body of the people of the United States. Very quickly, the real world of American politics began to chip away at the certainties of the founding generation. Madison himselfwho had denounced faction in the Federalist Papersbegan to organize a political party, the Democratic-Republicans. Just four years after writing the Federalist Papers, he renounced his views and pronounced a new candid state of parties. It turns out, he now wrote, Parties are unavoidable. Meanwhile, the doomed Federalists, fearing the outcome of the 1800 election as John Adams ran for reelection, changed the voting rules in more than half the states. Massachusetts and New Hampshire even repealed the right to vote for president. The fight to vote became a defining election issue in the early decades of the new country. By the 1820s, working-class white men demanded and won the vote. Much of the shift was engineered by politicians on the make, such as suave, elusive Martin Van Buren of upstate Kinderhook, New York. A colleague once bet he could force the Little Magician to give a definitive answer to a simple question. He asked Van Buren whether the sun rose in the East. As I invariably slept until after sunrise, I could not speak from my own knowledge, he replied. In 1821, New York State held a heated Constitutional convention to decide whether to expand voting rights. Van Buren marshalled an aspirational coalition of what he called the this class of men, composed of mechanics, professional men, and small landholders and constituting the bone, pith, and muscle of the population of the state. A leading law professor, Chancellor James Kent, opposed him. The tendency of universal suffrage, Kent intoned, is to jeopardize the rights of property, and the principles of liberty. He warned of government by factory workers, retail clerks, and the motley and undefinable population of crowded ports. Van Buren and his colleagues turned the Democrats into the worlds first mass political party. Its ranks were now filled with working men and small farmers, organized in a boisterous drive to win the White House. They backed the former general, Andrew Jackson. Modern Americans recoil from Jacksons repugnant racial views and atrocities toward Native Americans. At the time, he was also seen as a tribune of democracy. He called the Bank of the United States the Monster, and denounced special privilege and government that helped the rich grow richer. Democracy became a fad. In 1824, turnout among white men was 27 percent; when Jackson was elected in 1828 it more than doubled, to 57 percent. *** A century later, the health of American democracy was on the ballot again. In the wake of the countrys roaring rise to global power, the growth of cities, and massive concentration of wealth, citizens felt that their institutions were under siege, inadequate to the changing economy. There was, as Theodore Roosevelt described it, a fierce discontent among educated city dwellers as well as beaten-down farmers. More than is commonly recognized, the Progressive Era focused on political reform. As Bostons Peoples Lawyer, Louis D. Brandeis, put it, We can have democracy in this country, or we can have great wealth concentrated in the hands of a few, but we cant have both. By 1912 the Seventeenth Amendment giving citizens the right to vote for U.S. senator was headed to the states for ratification. Backers saw it as a form of campaign finance reform, designed to stanch the corruption that came from state legislatures choosing U.S. senators. Congress also enacted a law banning corporate spending in elections. After four years out of office, Roosevelt decided to run again for president; he sought the Republican nomination but was blocked by party mandarins. So he bolted and ran as the candidate of the Progressive Party. To destroy this invisible government, to dissolve the unholy alliance between corrupt business and corrupt politics is the first task of the statesmanship of the day, thundered the party platform, adopted in Chicago. At that convention Roosevelt bellowed to the activists, We stand at Armageddon and we battle for the Lord! He urged an array of reforms, from direct democracy such as referenda and ballot initiatives to term limits for Supreme Court justices. Historian Sidney Milkis concludes, TRs crusade made universal use of the direct primary a celebrated cause, assaulted traditional partisan loyalties, took advantage of the centrality of the newly emergent mass media, and convened an energetic but uneasy coalition of self-styled public advocacy groups. All these features of the Progressive Party campaign make the election of 1912 look more like that of 2008 than that of 1908. Roosevelt wasnt even the most radical candidate in the four-way contest. That was Socialist Eugene V. Debs. I like the Fourth of July, Debs explained. It breathes the spirit of revolution. On this day we affirm the ultimate triumph of Socialism. Roosevelt backed womens suffrage. The Republicans and Socialists did as well. But Democrat Woodrow Wilson reflected his segregationist partys ambivalence about voting. Voting, he explained, was a matter of states rights. The day before his inauguration the next year, Wilson stepped off the train in Washington. Some Princeton students belted out a greeting song, but there were few other supporters in evidence. The New York Times consolingly wrote, Small but vociferous and made up in noise what they lacked in numbers are the conventional terms that might be applied. An aide asked, Where are all the people? Wilsons greeters admitted that most were lining Pennsylvania Avenue, site of an unprecedented march for womens suffrage, organized by a brilliant young feminist, Alice Paul. Five thousand women, many in costume, were led by a young lawyer on a dazzling white horse, Inez Milholland. She wore the costume of a Greek goddess. A throng of perhaps 100,000 men lined the street, many inebriated after inaugural festivities. They heckled, spat, threw objects, and eventually broke through the meager police lines. One newspaper reported that the women practically fought their way by foot up Pennsylvania Avenue. More than 100 women were hospitalized. The fracas drew huge national attention. Washington, D.C.s police chief resigned. Just as at Selma a half-century later, the violence tipped public support toward supporting voting rights. But Wilson still would not budge. The issue loomed large when Wilson ran for reelection. He spoke at the leading suffrage groups convention and managed to win applause without actually embracing its position. Young women, in turn, disrupted his State of the Union address, unfurling a banner from the House of Representatives balcony before being hustled off. Republican nominee Charles Evans Hughes backed a suffrage amendment. In the 12 states where women could vote for president, a new National Womens Party opposed the incumbent. But Wilson still resisted. Inez Milholland had become a celebrated crusader, tirelessly speaking out for suffrage. At a speech in California, she cried out, Mr. President, how long must women wait for liberty? She then collapsed at the podium, and was dead within a month. Her funeral was held in Statuary Hall in the Capitol. When Wilson angrily stalked out of a meeting with mourners the next day, pickets began to stand outside the White House for two years. Finally, his hand was forced by the incongruity of arguing for democracy in the Great War while blocking it at home. In September 1918, shortly before the midterm elections, he motored to Capitol Hill with only a half-hour notice, and strode into the U.S. Senate. This is a peoples war, he told the senators, and the peoples thinking constitutes its atmosphere and morale. (He also insisted, implausibly, The voices of intemperate and foolish agitators do not reach me at all.) *** Electoral concerns even loomed over the greatest of all breakthroughsthe Voting Rights Act of 1965. The legislation resulted from the bravery of thousands of Southern black citizens who risked violence and death to protest for voting rights. At the same time, the wary dance between Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and President Lyndon Johnson, two viscerally skilled Southern political leaders, defined the final push. King and Johnson met and spoke repeatedly in the months before Selma. King would press for a voting rights bill. Johnson would reply, as he did in December 1964, Martin, youre right about that. Im going to do it eventually, but I cant get a voting rights bill through in this session of Congress. Eventually Johnson would find himself orating at King about the glories of a voting rights bill when it passed, eventually. That will answer seventy percent of your problems. King, for his part, talked about black voting rates and how a surge in voting for Democrats could lead to a new South. Landslide Lyndon (who had stolen his first Senate election) felt compelled to describe his soaring vision; the moral leader felt compelled to demonstrate his savvy political chops. Johnson never told King that he had asked the Justice Department to secretly draft a voting rights bill. Soon a quiet deal was struck with the Senate Republican leader, Everett Dirksen, who was known as the Wizard of Ooze. King, in turn, never stressed to the president that he was already working to stage a public drama in Selma, Alabama, one of the worst spots for blacks in the South, culminating in the bloody police beatings of John Lewis, Amelia Boynton, and other marchers on the Edmund Pettus Bridge. After the televised violence on Bloody Sunday, demonstrations erupted all over the country. Rarely in history has public opinion reacted so spontaneously and with such fury, narrated Time magazine. Johnson let the pressure build to the point where Alabama Gov. George Wallace had to come to the federal government for help. LBJ browbeat Wallace for hours. Hell, if Id stayed in there much longer, Wallace complained, hed have had me coming out for civil rights. Energized, Johnson finally proposed the voting rights bill in a legendary speech before Congress. The electoral impact was never far from the minds of any of the participants. After signing the Act, Johnson pulled aside the student leader John Lewis, whose skull had been fractured in Selma. Decades later, by then a senior congressman, Lewis recounted his wide-eyed encounter as a 22-year-old. Now, John, Johnson told the activist, youve got to go back and get all those folks registered. Youve got to go back and get those boys by the balls. Just like a bull gets on top of a cow. Youve got to get em by the balls and youve got to squeeze, squeeze em til they hurt. African-American voting rates soared in the South. But Johnson was prescient when he told his aide Bill Moyers after signing an earlier civil rights bill, I think we just delivered the South to the Republican Party for a long time to come. The migration of white Southern voters to the increasingly conservative Republican Party became the key political fact of the past half century, realigning American politics. *** What about today? This election comes after a period when longstanding rules of American democracy have come under intense strain. The modern conservative movement took cues from Paul Weyrich, the founder of the American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC) and co-founder of the Heritage Foundation. Weyrich was blunt about his goals in a 1980 speech warming up for Ronald Reagan. How many of our Christians have what I call the goo goo syndromegood government, he mocked. They want everybody to vote. I dont want everybody to vote. Over the past 15 years, conservative activists and politicians began a push for more restrictive voting laws. At first the effort didnt go far; statistically, an individual is more likely to be killed by lightning than commit voter fraud. But demographic pressure built, as turnout by minority voters soared, culminating in the election of Barack Obama in 2008. In 2010, Republicans won control of many state capitols in protest against Obamas policies and the deep recession. The next year, they passed two dozen laws to make it harder to vote for the first time since the Jim Crow era. Many were blocked by courts before the 2012 election. But the next year, in Shelby County v. Holder, the Supreme Court struck down the heart of the Voting Rights Act. Now 16 states will have new restrictive voting laws on the books for the first time in a high turnout presidential election. Meanwhile, Citizens United and other court rulings upended decades worth of campaign finance law. Its been an oddly mismatched debate. Republicans such as John McCain once strongly supported campaign reform. (In fact, in 2008 McCain participated in the presidential public financing system while Obama did not.) George W. Bush signed the reauthorization of the Voting Rights Act. But the Republican Party leadership now lines up against new voting rules and campaign finance laws, even disclosure. Democrats, meanwhile, offered only a tepid response. Obama never introduced legislation to expand voter access or restore public campaign financing, even when his party had a filibuster-proof majority in the Senate. This campaign, of course, has rattled those presumptions. Will this be another election where fundamental questions about American democracy will be debated in November? It is too early to tell. Voters may be just blowing off steam. Public anger could curdle into simple nationalism and nativism. The self-financing Donald Trump routed the Super PAC-backed Jeb Bush. Or it could be another one of those moments when the parties find their voices debating the basic question of who should have power in America. If this is such a democracy moment, it will not be the last one. As John Adams understood, There will be no end of it. Lets hope so. This article has been adapted from the book The Fight to Vote, published this week by Simon & Schuster. 2016. ROME Dingy sage-green curtains and three enormous shiny golden chandeliers in the Verdi Room of Romes Quirinale Hotel, a stones throw away from the main train station, provided an odd setting for one of the most important clerical sex-abuse hearings a senior Vatican official has ever faced. The squeaky parquet-floored room, which is normally used for wedding receptions and first-communion parties, was transformed into a makeshift courtroom for Cardinal George Pell, head of the Vaticans Secretariat for the Economy, who was called to answer questions by the Australian Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse. Pell was supposed to travel to Australia for the hearings last year, but ill health (backed up by ample doctor certification) apparently prohibited the 74-year-old from making the long journey. So the commission decided to come to Rome and conduct the questioning by video link, Australian time, which means the four-hour hearings started at 10 p.m. in Romeand could last three or four days. On Sunday, the first night of the inquiry, Pell was whisked into the room through a side door and sat at a table covered with a green cloth at the front of a room filled with about 50 journalists, several dozen priests and Australians supporting Pell, and some 20 survivors of sexual abuse, who used crowd-funding to pay for their trip to Rome The cardinal never looked out at the crowd. Instead, his eyes were fixed solidly on the little silver camera in front of him as Gail Furness, a lawyer assisting the Royal Commission in what amounts to a prosecutorial role, asked questions from a courtroom in Sydney. At times the scene resembled one of those awkward Skype calls with either Furness or Pell talking over each and apologizing for the interruption. Pell made it clear from the start that he was not here to defend the indefensible, by which he meant the Roman Catholic Church for its years of missteps on handling rampant clerical sex abuse. The church has made enormous mistakes and is working to remedy those, Pell said. The church has, in many places, certainly in Australia, mucked things up, has let people down but Im not here to defend the indefensible. Instead, Pell was called to defend himself on two separate case studies the Royal Commission is looking into, including one involving Father Gerald Ridsdale, who was convicted of sexually assaulting 54 childrenone as young as 4 years old when he was a priest in Ballarat, Australia, where Pell is from and where he started his clerical journey. Among the survivors who attended Pells hotel hearing was David Ridsdale, the perverted priests nephew who was also his victim, and who has accused Pell of trying to bribe him and his family for their silence. When the younger Ridsdale gave evidence to the Royal Commission last May, he recounted a conversation he had with Pell wherein the cleric allegedly asked him for his silence. As Ridsdale tells it, the exchange happened like this: Ridsdale: Excuse me, George, what the fuck are you talking about? Pell: I want to know what it will take to keep you quiet. Ridsdale: Fuck you, George, and everything you stand for. Pell, who will surely be asked about the conversation during the three- to four-day hearing in Rome, has always denied the alleged bribery attempt. To the best of my belief this conversation did not happen, he said last year in a statement. I was, and remain, extremely sympathetic to David Ridsdale, who because of his uncle suffered horrible abuse. I continue to regret the misunderstanding between us. At no time did I attempt to bribe David Ridsdale or his family or offer any financial inducements for him to be silent. Outside the Hotel Quirinale, Ridsdale held court with the press. We are here for the truth. We need the Vatican hierarchy to stand up for what is right, he said. We hope we are the last victims of this abuse. He, along with many of the victims in attendance, wore red T-shirts with the words No More Silence. One man, Peter Blenkiron, wore a green T-shirt with a photo of himself when he was a young boy at the time he was abused, which, he told The Daily Beast, was when he lost his childhood. In his testimony, Pell called Ridsdales behavior a catastrophe, for the victims, and for the church. And he admitted that in the 1970s, when he was a rising star in the Australian Church hierarchy, that he was quick to disbelieve reports of predatory priests. I must say in those days, if the priests denied such activity, I was very strongly inclined to accept that denial. But for many of the questions posed to him, Pell said he had no recollection, deferring to what he called senior moments and admitting, I do not have perfect recall when it comes to events that happened more than 30 years earlier. Which, of course, is a worrying defect considering he is at the helm of what is surely the most complex and complicated structure inside the Holy See as the head of its Secretariat for the Economy. Pell is not directly accused of perpetrating sexual abuse in this particular hearing, but allegations that he was also fond of fondling have dogged him for decades. According to the Australian website on clerical sex abuse Broken Rites, Pell, when he was training to become a priest, put his hand down the inside of [a young mans] pants and got a good handful of his penis and testicles during some form of activity in a tent such as pillow fighting or wrestling. Pell has long denied those allegations, which were apparently handled in 2002 by an internal investigation held behind closed doors by the Australian diocese, to which Pell belonged at the time. Whether those questions will be addressed during Pells testimony to the Royal Commission are of great interest to the dozens of Australian journalists and survivors who have come to Rome. Also of great interest is what, if anything, Pope Francis will do in the way of reaction to Pells time on the stand and accusations against him, which will surely come to his attention. George Pell has long been regarded as Romes man in Australia, which necessarily involves prioritizing the interests of Rome above everyone else, Nicky Davis of the Australia chapter of the Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests, or SNAP, told The Daily Beast last year. More and more Australian Catholics strenuously disagree with Pells response to child sex crimes by clergy, but their views, like the cries for help of victims, are ignored. Barbadillo releases rare 8,000 1891 sherry Spanish winemaker Barbadillo has released an amontillado sherry dating back to the 19th century. A limited run of 100 bottles of the Versos 1891 went on sale this month priced at 8,000 bottle. The Versos 1891 was originally a gift to Manuel Barbadillo by his father as a christening present in 1891, and was already then described as an old amontillado. Aged in an American cask in the humid cellars of Barbadillo in Sanlucar de Barrameda, Andalusia, generations of winemakers from the Barbadillo family acted as its custodians while it aged. The luxury sherry is presented in a handmade crystal glass decanter crafted by the Portuguese glassmakers Atlantis. It is shaped like a traditional ink well in homage to Manuels status as a poet. The decanter is finished with platinum paint on the collar and has Versos etched into the glass in gold leaf. This is then further encased in an exclusively designed Spanish leather box made in Ubrique in the Sierra of Cadiz in Andalusia, home of some of the worlds finest luxury leather craftsmen. Steve Cook, international director, Barbadillo says: "Versos 1891 is a celebration of an extraordinary man, a legendary winery and an illustrious, centuries-old tradition of winemaking in the sherry region of Spain. A true once-in-a-lifetime project, we are thrilled to be able to share this slice of our history with the world, something made possible only because Barbadillo remains a deeply passionate family business that has been making world class Sherries since 1821. Montserrat Molina, Barbadillo winemaker, comments: Having worked with the Barbadillo family for over 20 years, it has been my privilege to care for this exquisite Amontillado throughout my time here. Building on over a century of painstaking and passionate work of my predecessors, we remain intensely committed to the history and tradition of the region as we endeavor to create the finest sherries in the world. 29 February 2016 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor Elmwood brews up new ID for London Beer Lab As London Beer Lab establishes itself as a new challenger brand in the craft beer sector, global brand design consultancy, Elmwood, has created an innovative label identity for the open-source brewery. The Brixton based brewery, known for its beer-making workshops, needed a label identity that could support their expansion plan to sell the product in local craft beer shops and public houses rather than exclusively in the brewery. Run by Karl Durand-O'Connor and Bruno Alajouanine the London Beer Lab design needed to reflect the founders proud history of sharing recipes as an open source brewery, and making the often-lofty craft beer world more accessible. It was also essential that the design adapted easily to small batch brewing for customers who create bespoke recipes in workshops, ranging from pale ale, to smoked wheat beer. The creative was founded on the recognition that London Beer Lab successfully marries two distinct points of view: craft and curiosity. This unique combination sees the invitation to meddle with malts and consistently discover new things, juxtaposed with world-class expertise that ensures brews are a success. To bring this brand ethos to life on a label, Elmwood split the design space into two conceptual areas. Representing craft with an enlarged logo and key brand messages, the top half of the label stays consistent to ensure a recognisable brand identify regardless of brew. The bottom half represents curiosity and can be adapted for each beer made, including the opportunity to write notes by hand. Elmwood also helped to evolve the existing brand marque, keeping the original flask to represent the handmade element of the product. However, a more modern version was developed to sit alongside two new fonts that look hand-drawn to really drive home the craft message. Undeniably Elmwoods most innovative part of the design isnt in the labels aesthetic, but rather the fact that it is removable. Held to the bottle with only a rubber band, the label can be pulled off to reveal tasting notes and space for consumers to improve the formula on the reverse. Peter Aldous, creative service director, Elmwood says: A wonderfully broad creative scope gave us a platform to challenge industry norms from writable varnish through to securing the labels with elastic bands, the potential solutions were largely unrestricted! The most effective detail was the use of cutting edge digital printing. Creating one die, and printing multiple variants on one sheet gave the cost base to achieve not only vibrant colours, but at the required efficiency. Karl Durand-O'Connor, co-founder of London Beer Lab, adds: We had the good fortune to have a designer from Elmwood visit us for a workshop in our Brixton Railway arch during our early days, which is how we learned about their expertise. Without an artistic bone in our bodies, even we acknowledged our branding and labels were not fit for purpose when it came to launching beers commercially. It was a godsend to have Elmwood create a design that strikes a cord with both of us and encapsulates so much of what was discussed in our very first meeting. The execution has been flawless and we have been incredibly fortunate to be able to work with such a group of talented individuals. Elmwood brand design consultancy has studios in Leeds, London, New York, Singapore, Hong Kong and Melbourne, and offers specialist services in sustainability consulting, industrial design and environmental design. 29 February 2016 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor Westons launches Caple Rd Dry cider Premium English cider producer Westons is launching Caple Rd Dry, Blend No. 5, following the successful launch of Caple Rd Cider, the UKs first craft cider in a can, a year ago. Caple Rd Dry (5% ABV) is the second variant in the range and is double-filtered from fresh English apple juice to give a crisp, dry and complex taste with a powerful tart finish. The cider is named after the road which approaches Westons site in the Herefordshire village of Much Marcle. Like its sister variant Caple Rd Cider, Caple Rd Dry is produced in small batches to ensure consistent quality and its unique craft characteristics. Caple Rd Dry is made from Westons base blend No. 5, whereas the original Caple Rd Cider is made from Westons base blend No. 3. The launch comes amidst a growing trend for both craft beer and cider, with followers looking increasingly towards premium drinks which have a point of difference, traceability of ingredients, and artisanship. Canned beer has also made a comeback through the craft beer evolution, with cans helping make sure the liquid is consumed in the best possible condition. Geoff Bradman, Westons commercial director, says: When we launched Caple Rd Cider a year ago, we never anticipated quite how successful it would be. Both trade and consumer feedback has been phenomenal, and this has been formally recognised in the various awards the cider won in its first year of launch. Westons Cider is now run by the fourth generation of the Weston family, which has been producing traditional English cider in the Herefordshire village of Much Marcle since 1880. Westons makes a broad range of ciders for the premium cider sector with its key brands including Stowford Press, Wyld Wood, Henry Westons, Old Rosie, Mortimers Orchard and Caple Rd. UK retail listings for Westons range of cider include all the major grocers such as Waitrose, Sainsburys, Tesco, Morrisons, Asda, the Co-op, and Booths. UK on-trade listings for Westons range of ciders include Mitchells & Butlers, Spirit Group, Punch, Enterprise Inns, Fullers, Greene King, Hall & Woodhouse, Marstons, Charles Wells, Youngs and Matthew Clark Wholesale. 28 February 2016 - Felicity Murray The Drinks Report, editor Texas A&M AgriLife Research scientists soon will be looking deep beneath agricultural row crops to determine what makes them stronger, higher yielding and more adaptable, as well as what they offer in the area of climate change mitigation. Dirk Hays, AgriLife Research plant geneticist in the soil and crop sciences department at College Station, will lead a project: "Ground-Penetrating Radar for Enhanced Root and Soil Organic Carbon Imaging." , The project is funded by a $4.6 million, three-year grant from the U.S. Department of Energy's Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy. This segment of the federal department, according to the grant, funds technologies that show technical promise and potential for commercial impact, but are too early in their research and development for private-sector investment. Specifically, Hays said, the Department of Energy is interested in how large biomass root systems can contribute to the building of root-derived soil organic matter while sequestering and allowing carbon dioxide to be stored in the ground and used for climate change mitigation. Hays said his past research has used ground-penetrating radar to phenotype roots in wheat, sorghum, cowpeas and other crops. On Feb. 1, he and a team of AgriLife Research and Texas A&M University scientists started looking at high biomass energy crops, specifically perennial sorghums and millets. "We have not been able to use ground-penetrating radar or any other nondestructive system to select for ideal root systems in the past," he said. "[Ground-penetrating radar] has only minimally been used in crop systems. So this will be the first large body of work using ground-penetrating radar for crop root systems. "We know it has limitations to see fine roots in heavier soils, but our goal is to take the technology as far as we can to see finer structure and at deeper depths." Through the project, AgriLife Research is tasked with developing ground-penetrating radar antenna arrays for three-dimensional root and soil organic carbon imaging and quantification, he said. Other AgriLife Research and Texas A&M scientists at College Station on the project include Russell Jessup, perennial grass breeder; Frank Hons, soil scientist; Nithya Rajan, agronomist; Haly Neely, soil scientist; Ben Wu, rangeland ecologist; Michael Bishop, geosciences professor; and Ron Lacey, biological and agricultural engineering professor. Outside major collaborators are Alexander Novo and Enrico Boi with IDS Georadar, the manufacturer of the ground-penetrating radar equipment to be used, and Dean Goodman with Geophysical Acheometry Laboratory in California, who is responsible for developing the software for analyzing the data gathered by the radar. Hays said the visualization of root traits in soils could enable breeders to select climate-resilient bioenergy and other row crops that provide higher yields, require fewer inputs, improve soil health and promote carbon sequestration through increased root-derived soil organic matter. There are existing instruments, but they are not designed for row crop root imaging, he said. There is a need to optimize the frequency of the radar and the geometry or multi-array radar antennas and make crop-root GPRs commercially available. "Previously, we've worked with smaller root systems. Now we're looking at the larger mass root systems," Hays said. "We need to build on the methodology of analyzing these root systems. "If we can image them non-destructively, we can actually breed for the traits that make the plants more adaptive to Texas conditions." he said. The crops for the project will be planted in the College Station, Beeville, Lubbock and Stephenville areas to provide opportunities to measure root systems in different soil types. "We know ground-penetrating radar doesn't work well in heavy clays; the ability to discriminate root-radar return signals versus heavy clay signals is difficult," he said. "We hope our methodologies and ground-penetrating radar instrument design will help us quantify the root mass and structure better even in the heavier soils." Hays explained that by quantifying the root production on different crops in different soils, researchers will be able to guide breeders and producers toward more efficient crops and management practices. "We know there are genetic lines with roots that are responsive to cultural practices," he said. "We want plants with deeper, more adaptive root systems for later crop development. Under deficit irrigation, some genotypes will have roots that go deeper to find the moisture, while others won't. If we can determine which ones are doing that, we can breed those traits. "This requires our ability to image and quantify roots throughout the crop cycle using a non-destructive technology such as ground-penetrating radar." In another study, Hays said adding either high rates or no phosphorus to a black-eyed pea crop made no difference in the root system, but adding just a trace amount made the root system significantly larger and deeper, which in turn made the plant more drought-resistant. "That happened to be genetic-line specific, and likewise, root adaptation to drought stress is also likely common among most crops," he said. "As such, if we can image with ground-penetrating radar, we can breed for that kind of trait more effectively and, in turn, reduce fertilizer and irrigation demands." Special to The Post This IDS Georadar Pegasus:Stream combines both a 40 antenna multi-array ground-penetrating radar with 200 and 600 Mhz antenna with a Leica Pegasus terrestrial laser scanner for simultaneous above and below ground three-dimensional imaging. It is an example of the instrument to be developed by the Texas A&M University and IDS Georadar team to image both above ground foliar and below ground biomass root structure simultaneously. Texas A&M AgriLife Research photo Russ Jessup will grow high-biomass perennial millet crops such as this for the study with ground-penetrating radar. Texas A&M AgriLife Research photo The ground-penetrating radar will help researchers look at the rhyzomes and root systems of perennial sorghums without having to dig them up. "Donald Trump is not a racist, but Donald Trump is not afraid. Don't vote for a Cuban, vote for Donald Trump." This is not the first white supremacist pro-Trump robocall by a group calling itself "American National Super PAC," but it hits the same low notes as the last one. "We don't need Muslims. We need smart, well-educated white people," said the first call, which went out to Iowa and New Hampshire voters ahead of the presidential nominating contests in those states. The group's pre-Super Tuesday call, which has reportedly gone out in Vermont and Minnesota, says, "The white race is dying out. . . . Few schools anymore have beautiful white children as the majority." Both calls identify the person responsible for the message as a "farmer and white nationalist," and both end the same way: "Vote Trump . . . This call is not authorized by Donald Trump." Trump has no affiliation with the white supremacists making these calls on his behalf, but he's certainly got them all excited. The racist American Freedom Party is technically running its own candidate for president on a "Stop White Genocide" ticket, but its heart is clearly with Trump. A statement from the group announcing that first round of racist robocalls in Iowa called Trump "The Great White Hope." Before the first votes were cast this year, Trump's candidacy was also being hailed and welcomed by the American Nazi Party, the KKK-affiliated "Knights Party," the skinhead and neo-Nazi online forum "The Daily Stormer" and former KKK Grand Wizard David Duke. Duke started praising Trump on his radio show during the summer, saying that Trump's campaign was doing "some incredibly great things," but he stopped short of fully endorsing Trump's candidacy. Now, Duke is overtly calling on his supporters to join the Trump campaign: "Voting against Donald Trump at this point, is really treason to your heritage. . . . I am telling you that it is your job now to get active. Get off your duff. Get off your rear-end that's getting fatter and fatter for many of you every day on your chairs. When this show's over, go out, call the Republican Party, but call Donald Trump's headquarters, volunteer. They're screaming for volunteers. Go in there, you're gonna meet people who are going to have the same kind of mind-set that you have." Candidates cannot control who endorses them, and no one should hold candidates accountable for the views and actions of their supporters unless the candidates endorse them in turn. But that doesn't mean the rest of us can't notice who's lining up behind whom. While there is no evidence that Trump is actively courting the support of neo-Nazis and white supremacists, or that he welcomes it, that support also doesn't come as a surprise after the campaign that he has run. Since he has been running for president, Trump has twice retweeted a message from the account @WhiteGenocideTM. The name associated with the account is "Donald Trumpovitz," and the user's location is listed as "Jewmerica." The avatar associated with the account - which Trump has twice sent to his own 6 million followers - includes the phrase, "The man who wants to be Hitler." In November, Trump also tweeted a graphic that showed wildly inaccurate statistics blaming African Americans for anti-white crime. The graphic originated from a Twitter account headed with a stylized swastika that is the symbol of a neo-Nazi group. The profane description of who the account belongs to includes the statement, "Should have listened to the Austrian chap with the little moustache." The Trump campaign, again, should not be conflated with its followers, but the candidate has not exactly gone out of his way to make clear to the white nationalists and neo-Nazis among us that their love is unrequited. After Duke started praising him last summer, Trump told interviewers who pressed him to repudiate the Klansman, "Sure, I would, if that would make you feel better." Within the past few days, Trump said once that he disavowed Duke's support, and then subsequently that he would not disavow it because he didn't know who Duke was. In 1991, Duke ran for office as the gubernatorial nominee of the Republican Party in Louisiana. Disgusted mainstream Republicans were beside themselves that a Klansman had become the party's standard-bearer in that state. He was denounced by Republicans up to and including then-President George H.W. Bush. That said, the Democratic Party's candidate in that 1991 governor's race was no prize either. Edwin Edwards had already served three terms as Louisiana governor, but he was flagrantly, even proudly, corrupt. Edwards ultimately went on to serve eight years in federal prison, but not before defeating Duke in a campaign that featured two of America's all-time great political slogans: "Vote for the Crook. It's Important" and "Vote for the Lizard, Not the Wizard." The point is that Duke lost that race, even against an opponent like Edwards. Of course he lost. Characters like that are expected to lose in America, anywhere and everywhere. Neo-Nazis, Klan members and white nationalists are a durable feature of the far-right fringe in U.S. politics. The constant reinvention and reintroduction of a character such as Duke over the years shows that our nation's racist yahooism probably will never go away completely. It's like a latent infection that becomes mildly symptomatic again every time we're under too much stress. What we're not used to is it winning, and thereby getting a place in the spotlight at the center of mainstream, national politics. Maybe the Republican Party cracked the seal on this kind of thing in 2014, when it elevated Rep. Steve Scalise, R-La., to the top tier of the House Republican leadership. Scalise, as a state legislator, once addressed a white supremacist convention of the European-American Unity and Rights Organization. He says he had no idea that it was a racist group, but a local reporter says he also told her at the time that Louisiana voters should think of him as "David Duke without the baggage." That's a quote that the White House has frequently reiterated to the press corps since Republicans decided to elevate Scalise to the No. 3 job in the House. The White House keeps bringing up the quote because it's supposed to be a source of shame for Scalise and for the party in choosing him as a leader. That's the usual interplay between the racist fringe and the mainstream political right: The overtly racist stuff is supposed to be a political loser and radioactive to mainstream Republicans. What is not usual is that same cast of racist characters and organizations feeling at home and well represented at the very apotheosis of Republican Party politics, in the campaign of the prohibitive front-runner for the party's presidential nomination. Again, a candidate cannot be held accountable for everything said and believed by his or her supporters. But once it's clear that the candidate has both the attention and affection of the ugliest, most vile creatures in our political swamp, what he chooses to do about that is a leadership test not only for the candidate but also for the party of which he is becoming the standard-bearer. Now that the KKK and the white nationalists feel that the Republican Party has finally given them a candidate they can believe in, who will disabuse them of that notion? And how? --- The writer hosts MSNBC's "The Rachel Maddow Show" and is a contributing columnist for The Post. October 15, 1940 - February 15, 2016 Kenneth L. White, 75, a resident of Hot Springs Village, Arkansas, and a member of Christ Lutheran Church, passed away in his sleep while at home on Feb. 15. He moved to Hot Springs from Mountain View, Arkansas, after the loss of his wife two years earlier, and had previously served as a university professor in Texas and Australia, in addition to other postings as a researcher. Known to friends as "Kenny," he was born in Chicago on Oct. 15, 1940, and he met his late wife, the former Naomi Ellen Fletcher, while working at Baxter Laboratories. She later said that she had been drawn to him by his sense of humor. They married in 1963, while Kenny served in the Air Force, and they then moved to Whiteman AFB in Missouri. They later moved to Southern California, where they lived for many years, and then to Bryan, Texas, where Kenny became a professor of geography at Texas A&M University. His students affectionately referred to him as "Dr. Dirt." His studies and research also took them to Vicksburg, Mississippi, where they lived for a year, and, thanks to the Fulbright Scholars Program, to Dhaka, Bangladesh, and to Wollongong, NSW, Australia. Kenny and Ellen raised three children together. In later years, they lived in Australia, where Kenny taught at the Australian National University in Canberra, ACT, and they remained after their retirement. Nevertheless, they finally returned to the United States so that they could be closer to their granddaughter, Kelsea Ann, and they made their home in Mountain View, where Ken and Ellen volunteered for many years at the Ozark Folk Center. Kenny was an avid woodworker. His hobbies also included fishing and historic muzzleloading firearms, and he pursued all these activities in Hot Springs Village by joining clubs within the community. He made a special point of attending the Christ Lutheran men's breakfast club. He was always keenly interested in topography and geoscience, because of his training, and in the weeks before his death, he took his family to Costa Rica, where he insisted on wading into the sea so that he could climb into a fishing boat for a trip beyond the reefs. His favorite experience, however, was the family's visit to the animal rescue center. He always approached nature's beauty as a scientist, but he also appreciated its poetic qualities. His wife's death was a severe blow to him, but he carried on, nevertheless, with an infectious sense of humor and a deep love for his family and friends. In addition to his wife, he was preceded in death by his second daughter, Johanna Sue, and by his parents. He is survived by his loving sister Darlene Dauer of Sherman Oaks, California, by his devoted children, Heidi of New York, New York and Kenneth Jr. of Dripping Springs, Texas, and by his cherished granddaughter Kelsea Ann of San Marcos, Texas. A memorial service was held at Christ Lutheran Church in Hot Springs Village, on Saturday, Feb. 20, 2016. A memorial visitation will be held in Mountain View, Arkansas, at the Roller Crouch Funeral Home on Sunday, March 20, 2:00 4:00 p.m. In lieu of flowers, contributions may be made to a humane society or charity of one's choice. Have just released new announcement: construction will now not start until 2019. We should know by then whether the EPR will ever produce any electricity, with Olkiluoto and Flamanville both due to come on stream in 2018. 2.2 Media strategy Must keep up a good front: have blamed the latest delay on the Chinese New Year. Crucial that CEO maintains the line: "We estimate the investment decision is very close." 'Stop Hinkley Point' protesters occupied our offices in Bridgewater yesterday. Need to handle with care. Negative coverage increasing all the time, and people have started to talk about our 'zombie reactors' at Hinkley Point. Regrettably, our cohort of 'green ambassadors' (led by renowned UK environmentalist George Monbiot) has fallen silent. Very few advocates now for EPR. Even the FT has now joined the ranks of the critics stating "Politically painful it may be, but the case for halting Hinkley Point C is becoming hard to refute." Item 3: Extending the life of our UK reactors 3.1 Some good-ish news: we've negotiated extensions for four of our eight reactors in the UK: Heysham 1 and Hartlepool, through to 2024, and Heysham 2 and Torness through to 2030. There will be a significant financial outlay here, which has not yet been properly accounted for, but still relatively 'small beer' (as the English say) when looking at our overall finances. 3.2 The longer we keep these reactors ticking over, more or less safely, the better it will be. As soon as they come offstream, all the liabilities associated with decommissioning kick in. Reminder to the Board: managing our rising liabilities is now our most critical priority! Item 4: Extending the life of our French reactors Current operating fleet: 58 reactors. The Board has already signed off on a major life extension programme, with an estimate of 55bn of costs. Recent external assessments have put total costs at 100bn. Crucial to hold the line in the media at 55bn. In reality, we have no idea what the total outlay will be. Item 5: Energy Transition Law (France) 5.1 This now represents A MAJOR RISK, with a direct mandate from our principal shareholder (the French Government) that the country must reduce its dependence on nuclear generation from 75% to 50% of total electricity demand by 2025. 5.2 The Cour des Comptes (state Audit Office) has just issued a new report challenging our long-held expectation that demand for electricity in France will continue to grow significantly through to 2025. If they are right, the energy transition law will mean: Worst-case scenario: 20 reactors (35% of the fleet) will need to close. Best-case scenario: 17 reactors (29% of the fleet) will need to close. 5.3 Lobbying relevant Ministers and Prime Minister to amend the Energy Transition Law now a TOP PRIORITY. Item 6: Financial position Current share price: down 50% on January 2015 position. Current market cap: 22.5 (symbolically and very uncomfortably, less than the total projected costs of the Hinkley Point project). Our 37bn net debt load also dwarfs our 18.5bn market capitalisation. Current credit rating still at risk. Standard & Poors and Moody's both looking wobbly. Growing concern about perceived splits on the Board, especially as regards increasingly forceful hostility from our Trade Union representatives to Hinkley Point. Merde alors! And now the FT reports that they have two EDF sources telling them that the final investment decision will be delayed until 2017! Nous sommes trahis! It will be soon! Very very soon! Call security! The Champagne has lost its fizz See what I mean? Not exactly a cheery occasion, even with the best of French lunches, and it must be a bit like that Board meeting after Board meeting. So now shift the focus to London, to the Department of Energy and Climate Change. Imagine for a moment the Permanent Secretary, metaphorically shitting himself as the single biggest element in the UK's future electricity supply slides, slowly but ever more inexorably, down the pan. Wouldn't he just love to get access to the (real) Minutes of EDF's Board meetings! The implications of all this for the UK couldn't possibly be more severe. Initially, Hinkley Point was meant to be on stream by 2025, generating a whacking great 7% of total electricity supply. Earlier delays meant that this had already slipped to 2030. Now that the start date has slipped again, to 2019, at the earliest, that 2030 date looks insanely optimistic. And that's just the start. EDF's meltdown at Hinkley Point is already having a significant knock-on impact on other would-be nuclear prospects in the UK - with Horizon, NuGen and even China General Nuclear Corporation beginning to get cold feet. If Hinkley Point does go down the pan, a project that has been given every conceivable financial inducement by both the UK and the French Government, who the hell is going to invest in different but equally dodgy reactor designs? If the Permanent Secretary isn't shitting himself about such a state of affairs, one has to ask where he's getting his metaphorical Imodium from. Jonathon Porritt is Co-Founder of Forum for the Future, and a writer, broadcaster and commentator on sustainable development. He is also Trustee of the Ashden Awards for Sustainable Energy, and is involved in the work of many NGOs and charities as Patron, Chair or Special Adviser. This blog was originally published on Jonathon's website. Also on The Ecologist: In 2013, this single power station was responsible for 17% of Wales' greenhouse gas emissions as a result of its 8.5 million tonnes of CO 2 emissions. It is totally inconceivable that Wales will meet its climate target of a 40% reduction from the baseline by 2020 if Aberthaw is still operating at that level. And Aberthaw churns out 0.6% of the UK inventory of mercury (36 kg), a substance so toxic that the Water Framework Directive requires total cessation of discharge into watercourses by 2021. The executives at RWE must be scratching their heads on how they can possibly achieve compliance. 1 billion price tag Most of these pollutants end up unaccounted for in the ledgers. A tiny amount of carbon tax here or there. But the social costs are astronomical. We've calculated the health and environmental costs of pollution from Aberthaw to comprise: 18 million from SO 2 pollution; pollution; 420 million from NOx pollution; 510 million from CO 2 pollution. That's nigh on 1 billion, with no costs put forward for mercury, hazardous ash, particulates or trace pollutants. And it doesn't take into account the social costs associated with the despoilation of communities both in Wales and far beyond our shores. Pressure on the Welsh Government Wales' First Minister Carwyn Jones believes that "if the litigation goes against Aberthaw, it will make it more difficult for Aberthaw to operate, and that is bound to have an effect on its viability in the long term. The same is true of opencast mining, I suspect, as well, given the supply chain that exists there." That's good news, of course. But we expect more from Welsh Government. We'd like to see a total moratorium on new opencast mines. And we're asking the Welsh Government to press Amber Rudd for early closure of Aberthaw power station. Thus far we're hardly overwhelmed with Welsh Government activity on coal. This is a government that put so many loopholes into planning guidance that a 500m buffer zone to protect communities from opencast is routinely ignored. It hasn't even entered into correspondence with the operators of Aberthaw about the consequences of imminent closure. And no discussion has taken place at the Welsh Cabinet about retraining of workers. When the time comes, it will be for a loss of 290 jobs unmitigated by government activity. The new industrial revolution The fate of coal is sealed. Sealed deep underground, where it belongs. So Wales can take a role on centre stage in climate folklore. By committing to a moratorium on opencast and the closure of Aberthaw, the birthplace of the industrial revolution can focus instead on a new industrial revolution. A revolution where progress is measured by the growing proportion of energy coming from renewable sources, not from dirty fossil fules. Where massive investment is made in improving draughty, poorly insulated homes. And where the rhetoric of the Well-Being of Future Generations Act becomes a reality for all. Amber Rudd is clear (even if her actual policies leave coal generators way too much wriggle room): "It cannot be satisfactory for an advanced economy like the UK to be relying on polluting, carbon intensive 50-year-old coal-fired power stations." Quite so. Gareth Clubb is Director of Friends of the Earth Cymru. Twitter: @foecymrucydd. Facebook: foecymrucydd. Also on The Ecologist: 'Coal companies trying to revive 'zombie' open cast mines in Wales' by Guy Shrubsole. At best, GMOs can only be a short-term solution to any particular problem, but in every case they have created an often more serious problem (resistant weeds, insects or disease) that requires a new GMO and/or more chemical use. They also make a farmer completely dependent on the company producing the GMOs and chemicals (Pechlaner 2010). Agroecology and alternative methods of plant breeding Agroecological models of agriculture, such as organic agriculture, could be solutions to the most important problems affecting the planet, but they are often criticized for not being able to produce enough food for a growing population. We believe, however, that most of the meta-analysis showing lower yields under organic conditions are biased by the use of varieties which were not selected specifically for organic conditions. Participatory and evolutionary plant breeding methods, while benefiting from advances in molecular genetics, reconcile increased production of more readily available and accessible food with increased agrobiodiversity. They also maintain the evolutionary potential of our crops, which is needed to cope with climate change (Seneviratne et al. 2016). Being based on selection for specific adaptation, participatory plant breeding is not only more efficient than conventional plant breeding (Ceccarelli, 2015), but is able to produce varieties specifically adapted to both an agroecological agricultural model and diverse local climates (Ceccarelli et al. 2010). Thereby food safety is reconciled with food security. Participatory breeding of tomatoes for organic farming An example that this is indeed possible at low cost and in a short period of time is the following three year project of participatory tomato breeding for organic conditions. In Italy, four single crosses representing four different tomato types, namely 'cuore di bue', 'long fruit', 'cherry tomato' and "green salad fruit", were self fertilized to produce four F 2 populations (Campanelli et al. 2015) (1). These F2 seeds were distributed to four organic farmers located along a 450 km transect of the Italian Adriatic coast. Each farmer grew a random sample of 72 individual F2 plants for each of the four crosses, together with 18 individual plants of a commercial F1 hybrid of the corresponding fruit type for a total of 360 plants (4 crosses x 90 plants). The four populations were also planted at the research station. In farmers' fields, a group of farmers and a group of scientists conducted independently a visual selection on individual plants expressing their opinion with a 1 (= worse) to 4 (= best) score. At the research station, only scientists conducted the selection. After statistical analysis, seed was extracted from the fruits of the best plants and the corresponding F3 families (8 plants per family) were grown together with the same commercial hybrid as in the first year. During the process the F3 seed of the selected F2 of the green salad population was lost because of poor seed germination. Selection was repeated with the same methodology and the best plants were used to obtain the seed of the F4 families of the three remaining crosses. These were compared with commercial hybrids in a replicated (3 replications) trial on the four farms and at the research station. The trials on farms had some lines in common (selected in more than one farm) but also the unique selections on that farm. To assess yield, we measured the production of the first three fruit clusters. These are both very vulnerable to late frosts and very valuable to the farmers for the high prices of an early season tomato. It is thus a key commercial trait for farmers. The result of the three years participatory selection were identification of three families which out-yielded significantly the respective commercial hybrid and another 12 families which yielded as much as the commercial hybrids. All the three families which significantly out yielded the respective commercial hybrid were selected from the same population (the 'long fruit' type). Two of these families had a yield advantage over the commercial hybrid of between 43 and 44%. The third family out-yielded the commercial hybrid in two of the four farms by 62 and 76%, but it was significantly lower yielding (-22%) than the same hybrid on the research station. Had we conducted the breeding program only at the research station, we would have missed such a line (Campanelli et al 2015). Part of the evaluation was a score for uniformity and none of these lines was phenotypically less uniform than the hybrid. This means that they can be immediately commercialized, thus capitalizing on the work done. The lines still conserve some genetic diversity, which allows farmers to continue to improve them by extracting seeds from the best fruits of the best plants. The three advantages farmers derived from this work are: 1) higher yielding varieties; 2) saving on purchased seed as they can produce their own, and 3) using varieties specifically adapted to organic conditions. Beyond participatory plant breeding There are several other examples of successful participatory breeding programs, but despite these successes participatory plant breeding has a weakness in requiring the collaboration of a research institute to provide breeding material and technical support such as experimental design and statistical analysis (Sthapit et al. 1996, Witcombe et al. 2003). Therefore, the sustainability of a participatory program depends on the long-term commitment of a research institution. An interesting alternative is offered by evolutionary (participatory) plant breeding - participatory is in parenthesis because, though desirable, the participation of an Institution is not indispensable. The idea is not new as it was proposed back in 1956 (Suneson 1956). The method consists in planting in farmers' fields with mixtures (evolutionary populations) of very many different genotypes of the same crop, preferably, but not necessarily, using early segregating generations. These populations will be planted and harvested year after year, and due to natural crossing (higher in cross-pollinated and less in self-pollinated crops), the genetic composition of the seed that is harvested is never the same as the genetic composition of the seed that was planted. In other words, the population evolves to become progressively better adapted to the environment (soil type, soil fertility, agronomic practices including organic systems, rainfall, temperature, etc.) in which it is grown. As the climatic conditions vary from one year to the next, the genetic makeup of the population will fluctuate, but if the tendency is towards hotter and drier climatic conditions, as expected in view of climate change, the genotypes better adapted to those conditions will gradually become more frequent in this farming/breeding system (Ceccarelli 2014). Evolution our friend, not our enemy The evolutionary population, which can be made by the farmers themselves by buying seed of as many different varieties (including hybrids) of a given crop, can be used by the farmers (and by researchers if they are willing to participate) as a source of genetic diversity from which to select plants with useful traits. This has been done in Italy (data not published) using a zucchini (summer squash) evolutionary population obtained by letting 11 commercial hybrids to freely intercross. After only two cycles of visual selection, as in the case of tomato, the farmer in question selected two varieties, differing in color, yielding as much as the commercial hybrids. He has already started selling the two new varieties in local markets. Thus evolutionary (participatory) plant breeding, being a relatively inexpensive and highly dynamic strategy to adapt crops to a number of combinations of both abiotic and biotic stresses and to organic agriculture, seems to be a suitable method to generate, directly in farmers' hands, the varieties that will feed the current and future populations. Combining seed saving with evolution and returning control of seed production to the hands of farmers, it can produce better and more diversified varieties. These can help millions of farmers to reduce their dependence on external inputs and their vulnerability to disease, insects and climate change and ultimately contribute to food security and food safety for all. Dr. Salvatore Ceccarelli lives in Hyderabad (India) and cooperates in organizing participatory and evolutionary programs with different organizations, with various crops and in a number of countries. He is associated with the organisation: Rete Semi Rurali, Via di Casignano, 25, Scandicci (FI) 50018, Italy. His website is at miscugli.it. Formerly Full Professor in Agricultural Genetics at the University of Perugia, Italy he has been associated with ICARDA since 1980, His pioneer work on participatory plant breeding has gained ICARDA world recognition as a leading center in participatory research. Among several recognitions are the CGIAR award for the Outstanding Scientific Article of the year 2000 and his appointment as plant breeding facilitator in the System wide Program on Participatory Research and Gender Analysis. This article was originally published by Independent Science News under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 License. Author's note (1): These were produced at the Headquarters of the Consiglio per la Ricerca in Agricoltura e l'analisi dell'economia agraria- Unita di Ricerca per l'Orticoltura di Monsampolo del Tronto (CREA-ORA). References Amyris's underlying biotechnology has remained the same as that used by Sanofi to make synthetic artemisinin. Artemisinic acid belongs to a group of chemicals called isoprenoids or terpenoids. These are carbon molecules only found naturally in plants. Isoprenoids are not just of interest for pharmaceuticals. They have been described as "ideal candidates for advanced biofuels that may act as 'drop-in' replacements for gasoline, diesel, and jet fuel." The more they sold, the more money they lost Amyris chose to focus on a particular isoprenoid called farnesene. Its genetically engineered yeast is capable of converting sugar (from Brazilian sugar cane) to farnesene. The gene that allows yeasts to turn sugars into farnesene was taken from sweet wormwood, i.e. from the plant from that the malaria drug artemisinin is made. In other words, Amyris has merely had to tweak the GE yeast strain developed for artemisinin in order to produce biofuels and speciality chemicals instead. In 2009, Amyris obtained a $22 million grant from the US Department of Energy. This presumably had nothing to do with the fact that the company's co-founder Keasling works for the department. In purely technical terms, Amyris's farnesene fuels have been a success: Car manufacturers and aviation companies have tested their jet fuel and their synthetic diesel and found that it complied with and even exceeded technical and pollution standards. Commercially, the biofuels that Amyris has produced have been anything but successful. In 2011, the company entered into contracts to supply its sugar-cane derived diesel to the transit authorities for use in buses in Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo. At an exorbitant cost of $7.80 per litre, this required a significant public subsidy. According to an investigative article by the business journal Fast Company, even this was well below the cost of manufacture. Thus, the more farnesene-based diesel Amyris produced and sold, the greater the company's losses were. According to the same article, Amyris's directors had been hoping from the outset that their company could sell farnesene at its real production cost of $20 - $50 per litre, or $3,180 to $7,949 per barrel, which would mean selling it for use in expensive, niche products. The 'price breakthrough' no one believed in Clearly, the recent fall in oil prices cannot be blamed for Amyris's troubles. The company has had to abandon a 100 million gallon a year refinery which it had started to build but never fully commissioned. And its stock price has plummeted from a high of over $37 per share in 2011 to a mere $1.50. Amyris's sales are largely confined to personal care products now. In November 2015, the company announced to investors that it had managed to improve its GE yeast strains and reduce production costs down to $2 per litre in 2015, and even $1.75 in September of that year. This would have implied a major breakthrough. Judging by Amyris's share prices though, investors have not been convinced. If Amyris had really made a commercial breakthrough then it is hard to understand why its sales almost halved during the first nine month of 2015 compared to the same period of the previous year, or why its losses from production have risen. Amyris is not the only synbio company that has attracted major public and private (and in the case of artemisinin philanthropic) funding based on hyped up claims. Solazyme, who grow genetically engineered algae on sugar cane, have fared no better, as a recent report by Biofuelwatch shows. 'Plug and play' transgenetic microbes? Sadly for investors, it's so not like that Amyris (and for that matter Sanofi's artemisinin project) is also not Jay Keasling's only failed venture. Back in 2005, Keasling co-founded another synbio company, LS9, which used genetically engineered E.coli to convert sugar to fuels. LS9, together with partners HCL CleanTech (now called Viridia), were granted $9 million by the US Department of Energy to try to commercialise this process. Backed by venture capitalists, they invested $81 million in a demonstration plant in Florida. By 2014, LS9 had failed and was forced to sell its equipment and technology to a larger firm, which has no plans to use them for biofuel production. Keasling admitted to MIT Technology Review: "[Getting] the yields up to make them economically viable is very hard to do ... We need to be as good at engineering biology as we are at engineering microelectronics". Keasling has been one of the most prominent believers that synthetic biology can replicate the successes of electronics, treating genes in living organisms as if they were transistors. In 2009, he told the New Yorker: "The entire electronics industry is based on a plug-and-play mentality. Get a transistor, plug it in, and off you go. What works in one cell phone or laptop should work in another. That is true for almost everything we build: when you go to Home Depot, you don't think about the thread size on the bolts you buy, because they're all made to the same standard. Why shouldn't we use biological parts in the same way?" Evolution versus convolution - guess who wins? His commercial ventures are failing precisely because living organisms are not electronics parts and because they don't perform as predicted by computer models. As the author of the Fast Company article about Amyris concluded: "When synthetic biologists announce they will treat microbes like tiny factories, investors and markets may be listening, but the microbes are not. Biology is not computing or engineering - at least not yet. Yeast has already been programmed by evolution. "Inserting genetic instructions or working around ones already inside will be an uncertain business until scientists understand exactly how the organism functions. And that may take decades - if ever." Synthetic biologists simply cannot accurately predict how their GE microbes will behave and perform in an industrial environment. In a similar vein, they can't credibly predict how they will behave and interact in complex ecosystems when they escape, either. Almuth Ernsting is co-Director of Biofuelwatch. This article was originally published by SynBioWatch, a collective of campaigning organisations that includes Biofuelwatch. Over the weekend, just days before he was to stand trial first-degree murder, a Ferrum man struck an agreement with prosecutors in the shooting death of his close friend and was sentenced to serve 7 years in prison. Randall Neil Hodges, 49, pleaded guilty to one count of voluntary manslaughter and one count of unlawful wounding. He received 15 years with half of that time suspended. Hodges impromptu hearing was held Sunday evening in Franklin County Circuit Court. His two-day jury trial had been slated to begin Thursday morning. Although he was later indicted on one count of first-degree murder, Hodges was initially charged last year with second-degree murder in the death of his friend, Kevin Scott Smith, 42. Deputies were called May 14 to Smiths home on Holley Drive a little after 8 p.m. They found Smiths body in the yard and Hodges nearby with a small-caliber handgun. They were described as best friends by some, good friends by others, Aaron Houchens said Sunday. We would submit this was a crime that occurred in the heat of passion. He said he and his co-counsel, Holland Perdue, had planned to argue self-defense at trial, but would not discuss the specific circumstances of the incident itself. Franklin County Commonwealths Attorney A.J. Dudley also declined to talk about the case, except to say that the victims family approved of the resolution. The attorneys said the agreement came together quickly Sunday afternoon. Given the overall risk that our client faced, we believe this was a fantastic result, Houchens said. First-degree murder carries punishments raging from 20 years to life in prison. Voluntary manslaughter, defined as an unpremeditated killing, typically carried out in the heat of passion, can bring between one and 10 years behind bars. Franklin County High School will host the 24th annual Piedmont Region Odyssey of the Mind Tournament on Saturday, March 5. Sixty-two teams from six local school districts (Franklin, Bedford, Craig, Martinsville City and Roanoke City) and two homeschool programs (Roanoke Valley and Homeschool First) will be competing in the hopes of advancing to compete at the Virginia State Odyssey of the Mind Competition on Saturday, April 16 at Menchville High School in Newport News. State Winners will go to Iowa State University May 25-28, 2016, for World Finals Competition. The regional awards ceremony will begin at 3:30 p.m. in Hawkins Central Gym. The Odyssey of the Mind teaches students to learn creative problem-solving methods while having fun in the process. For more than 25 years, this unique program has helped teachers generate excitement in their students. By tapping into creativity and through encouraging imaginative paths to problem-solving, students learn skills that will provide them with the ability to solve problems -- great and small -- for a lifetime. The Odyssey of the Mind teaches students how to think divergently by providing open-ended problems that appeal to a wide range of interests. Students learn how to identify challenges and to think creatively to solve those problems. They are free to express their ideas and suggestions without fear of criticism. The creative problem-solving process rewards thinking "outside of the box." While conventional thinking has an important place in a well-rounded education, students need to learn how to think creatively and productively. Through the tournament, students develop team-building skills by working in groups of as many as seven students per team. Students learn to examine problems and to identify the real challenge without limiting the possible solutions and their potential success. The creative-thinking process is nurtured and developed as a problem-solving tool. OM teams are formed by division and compete against teams in the same division and problem. Grade level determines the division for teams. In competition, each school membership may enter one team per problem for each division it covers. Community groups and home-schooled members may enter one team per problem. General information on the tournament can be found at www.odysseyofthemind.com. Application for student loan forgiveness plan is available: Here's what to know Faster loading time (lower bounce rates from) A faster loading ensures that your site visitors don't leave your site when it starts to load for too long. Guaranteed dedicated resources Bandwidth, memory, CPU power, storage of up to 200 GB SSD Storage, NVMe. Privacy and control (server admin) You will get total control over digital assets, databases, customer information, and files with no ovhcloud control panel. Easier scalability You will able to increase your resources as often as you want easily. Dedicated IP address Our VPS services will ensure that you get IPv4 and IPv6 for a reasonable fee. Other amazing benefits include the following: - Better capabilities to handle additional websites - Unaffected by traffic and security of other sites - Control panel and full root access to your server - Lower cost than hardware and management of physical servers A possible reason not to use a VPS hosting provider is that it costs a bit more than shared hosting (but far less costly than physical servers). But the costs arent much higher, and if youve outgrown your shared account, or want the value of the advantages listed above, then its time to upgrade. Another reason might be a lack of technical knowledge, making VPS servers harder to set up, manage, and secure. But thats why managed VPS hosting is such a good choice. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) -- Dredging operations to clean chemicals from the upper Hudson River may have finally ended after six years and $1.5 billion but some advocates are pushing for another round. The effort by a coalition of environmental groups is the latest chapter in a fight that has ebbed and flowed over decades about how to handle PCBs discharged into the river by General Electric Co. They argue the river won't be truly clean unless dredge crews return, while Environmental Protection Agency focuses on the progress made along the 40-mile stretch of river north of Albany. "The question is: Was the job a big enough one, or should it have been bigger?" said EPA regional Superfund director Walter Mugdan. "I don't have any evidence at this moment to suggest anything other than that this is a success." Mugdan added that the sampling of river sediment, water and fish in the coming months under a review performed every five years will provide more information on how effective dredging was. Until the mid '70s, GE plants discharged into the river more than 1 million pounds of polychlorinated biphenyls, which are considered a probable carcinogen. A 200-mile stretch of river down to New York City became a Superfund site in 1984. But the EPA didn't call for dredging until 2002, after years of dispute over whether it would be effective. GE last year finished removing 2.75 million cubic yards of contaminated sediment as part of a 2006 legal agreement with the EPA, which the agency has estimated cost GE about $1.5 billion. Calls to dredge beyond the agreed-to areas grew louder before barges left the river. Advocates cite an analysis that concluded the river will take far longer to recover due to greater PCB contamination than initially expected. They say EPA should call for more dredging under provisions in the legal settlement that gives the agency that right if new information shows the cleanup is failing to protect human health and the environment. "We think the Obama administration has responsibility to position this for appropriate action before it leaves office," said Ned Sullivan, president of Scenic Hudson, part of a coalition seeking expanded dredging. There are no signs it will happen any time soon. GE maintains that it continues to fulfill all of its obligations. Company spokesman Mark Behan said in an email that "GE removed the majority of PCBs from the Upper Hudson -- more than 300,000 pounds and more than twice as much as had been anticipated." The EPA's Mugdan questions the analysis critics use to claim more dredging is needed. He said it's important to look at the proportional reduction in PCBs that Hudson River fish are exposed to and adds that portions of the river bottom with the highest PCB concentrations have basically been eliminated. Sullivan believes information gathered from a thorough five-year review could provide more information pointing to the need for more dredging. Mugdan said it might take eight years before scientists could draw conclusions from annual fish samples. The EPA in December agreed to speed up the timeline for its five-year review. There is an April 2017 deadline, though it remains unclear how long it will take. Meanwhile, GE is dismantling the sprawling plant used to process contaminated sediment dredged from the river. The EPA green-lighted the dismantling last fall, despite pleas from advocates and project trustees. Those trustees from other government agencies are assessing the total harm done to the river's resources, which could lead to either a settlement with GE over the company's liability or to litigation. GE crews will return to the river around May to restore areas where they worked. Divers will introduce thousands of underwater plants to dredged areas. NEW DELHI (AP) -- A man in western India fatally stabbed 14 members of his family, including seven children, early Sunday before hanging himself, police said. Hasnain Warekar, 35, went on his overnight killing spree following a Saturday evening family gathering at his home, said Gajanan Laxman Kabdule, a spokesman for the police in the city of Thane, located outside of Mumbai. He said a motive was not known. NORWALK -- Rowayton Arts Center launched its annual open-submission exhibition with a reception Sunday afternoon. The event, titled "Inspiration," was open to all artists and featured about 80 works; these were culled from around 150 submissions by curator Kenise Barnes, owner of Kenise Barnes Fine Art Consulting in Larchmont, N.Y. For the reception, the walls of RAC gallery were hung with visual art in a variety of media -- watercolor, oils, collage, photography, abstract, representational. Ribbons awarded by Barnes hung beside some works. "It's always just an honor to be selected for the show," said photographer Laura Dunne, a Norwalk resident and co-chair of the show who was awarded first place in the photography category by Barnes. Dunne's winning photograph, "Ecola Beach Fog," was snapped on the Oregon coast during a visit to a friend. The black-and-white image displays a beach scene with bathers silhouetted against an eerie Northwest fog. "It was just one of those typical beach days in Oregon," Dunne told The Hour. "There's something about fog that's a little mysterious to me, and dramatic." Dunne said she enjoys being part of the RAC community and offered words of encouragement for other artists. "Everyone (at RAC) is always striving to improve and work hard on the work they love," Dunne said. Judging the submissions is "always a very subjective thing. The judges are always very different." "If you don't get in, keep doing what you're doing," and don't be discouraged, Dunne added. Betty Ball, a Norwalk printmaker, won first prize in the prints and drawings category for her monotype titled "Watch Hill No. 7." Marjorie Poe, a painter exhibiting a watercolor titled "The Tranquil, The Lotus," said her work was rendered using a Chinese technique called gong-bi. "'Gong' means 'very detailed work'; 'bi' means 'brush'," Poe explained. Gong-bi watercolors are built up through the accumulation of many thin layers of paint. "We have to paint many layers to achieve the natural colors," Poe -- a veteran of the fashion industry who recently moved to Norwalk from Westport -- told The Hour. "Nowadays, everything is abstract; nobody knows what they're painting about," Poe said, adding that she uses a calligraphic, breath-based stroke for her watercolors. "For me, painting is a meditation." NORWALK -- Local Norwalk realtor Linda Dunsmore and her clients Tonya and Drew Steiner will be hunting for a house this Monday for HGTV's television show "House Hunters". "It was really interesting to be on a reality show that follows your everyday life," said Tonya Steiner. "We are big fans of reality TV so it was really great to see what parts of a reality show are actually reality and what's not." House Hunters follows people as they are searching for a new home with the help of a real estate agent. Each episode features three properties that the buyer get to visit. The buyer is then supposed to choose one of the houses before the show ends. The show concludes by revisiting the buyers in their new home a few weeks or months later. They discuss how they have changed the home and how it has affected their lives. "(The production crew) would come and visit us on a few different locations and times, including a follow-up piece once we had bought the house and were living in it," said Steiner. "They spent a few days filming the family as a whole and as individuals which was a lot of fun. We laughed a lot because you learned a lot about your significant other and what they are looking for when it comes to houses." Dunsmore has been a realtor since 2010 and was previously in corporate finance, as well as a couple of multi-national companies. Dunsmore lives in Norwalk and has lived in Norwalk for 22 years. She joined the Norwalk real estate office for Berkshire Hathaway where she does real estate around Fairfield County, but her specialty is Norwalk. "HGTV had a number of years back contacted my broker, Berkshire Hathaway, offering the opportunity to some of our realtors to work with the show. My broker put that out to, I think, 50 agents within the company," said Dunsmore. "We have over 1,000 agents and I was one of those agents. It was up to me to try to find buyers who would want to be on the show -- which has been difficult to do because it takes the client five days of their personal time to be on the show and be filmed. Some of these people didn't want to be on TV and some didn't have five days they could give up for filming so it never worked out." "Our family has three kids and three dogs, so when they wanted to film us to see how we were at being natural in front of the camera, it was a real circus act for the camera guys," said Steiner. "It was a funfilled and eventful experience and we would definately do it again... But for people interested in being on the show, we do recommend that you be very clear in what you are and what you are not looking for in a house." The Steiners had to fill out an application and film a 15 minute video of her and husband Drew's loves and dislikes when it came to styles of homes. Steiner said that the video was very freeform, yet structured and that the whole application process was extensive. "But when I was working with Tonya and Drew, we were kinda joking about (how) it would be nice to be on HGTV. So I mentioned if they would like to be on House Hunters and they said that it would be a lot of fun and that would be great," said Dunsmore. "So I reached out to my contacts -- the production company -- and we both had to do video tape auditions to send in before being selected for the show." The auditioned included Dunsmore giving information about herself, Norwalk and the family that she was working with -- along with a tour of her own home to see how she worked in front of a camera. "I don't actually know what my clients had to do in their audition and interview but they had to sell themselves," said Dunsmore. "Tonya and Drew are great people who have big personalities so I think they probably (are the reason they got filmed). They are a lot of fun." The taping for the show was five days long for the Steiners and three days long for Dunsmore. Dunsmore spent a full day each filming at each house -- from 10 a.m. to about 7 p.m. "It was pretty basic stuff, you know, 'here's the living room' but they had to set up for each room and get the lighting right. We also had to do multiple takes for each room," said Dunsmore. "One house was in Cranbury, one was in Wolfpit and one was in Brookside -- they were different styles of houses where one was an antique, one was a contemporary split-level and one was a colonial. So different styles houses in different areas of Norwalk." The Steiners will be having a viewing party for the event and are excited to see how episode turns out. Unfortunately, since the episode has not been released yet, information regarding what houses were on the show and which one they picked will have to wait for Monday's broadcast at 8 p.m. on HGTV. NORWALK -- Host to tens of millions of commuters each year, Interstate 95 has "about double" the amount of traffic it was designed for, U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) said Sunday during a town hall discussion about the snarled enigma that is Connecticut's public transportation system. As alternatives to driving, trains are expensive and crowded; bus routes and schedules are inadequate, audience members complained; commuters who do use Metro-North said they are forced daily to vie for limited parking at the train station. Low-income people who cannot afford to drive aren't able to get to work on the present public transit system, noted the director of a data-analysis firm. The $300m in additional federal funds allotted to Connecticut over the next five years is "still not nearly enough," Murphy said, at a time when Governor Malloy is proposing a traffic overhaul to the tune of $100 billion. As the name of Murphy's statewide listening campaign suggests, Fairfield County residents are "Fed Up" with the condition of Connecticut's transportation system. The 80 seats in Norwalk Public Library's auditorium were mostly full as people from Norwalk and environs come to vent their frustration and hear responses from Murphy as well as Norwalk Mayor Harry Rilling, State Senator Bob Duff and Mark Abraham, director of DataHaven, a New Haven organization that uses public data to examine correlations between transportation and quality of life. The event started a few minutes behind schedule. "Do you think the senator's stuck in traffic?" quipped one woman in the audience. In his introduction of Murphy, Duff said transportation is "probably one of our top issues in the state of Connecticut," and recounted a recent trip to Shanghai during which he rode in a high-speed magnetic train. "Those are the kinds of things we need to be doing here," Duff added, emphasizing the need for "vision" in the state's transportation solutions. Murphy, taking the podium, called traffic congestion within Norwalk "the good news and the bad news of a city that is growing economically;" the first slide of his presentation bore the caption "Traffic is unbearable." As a Connecticut native, "I know, just from a psychological perspective, how damaging traffic congestion is," Murphy said, eliciting a chuckle from the crowd. During his talk, Murphy said that in addressing the state's transportation woes, it will be necessary to make "politically difficult" decisions--raising the gas tax, for example, or somehow getting commuters to alter their habits, or ceding control of property around Metro-North stations to state or federal control. (Murphy is co-author, with Tennessee Republican Senator Bob Corker, of a bipartisan proposal to raise the federal gas tax--a proposal which, Murphy admits, has not as yet met a great deal of enthusiasm on Capitol Hill.) Connecticut's transportation problem has a "big scope," encompassing psychological and economic issues as well as logistical ones, Murphy said, but one thing is clear--something has to change. "The definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and over again and expecting different results," Murphy said. During a presentation that included disturbing figures about how many total days are spent commuting over a lifetime (30, in some cases), Abraham emphasized the impact of inefficient public transit on people who can't afford to own a car. "There are a lot of jobs that people have to turn down because the bus systems just don't go out there anymore," Abraham. Even in places like New Haven that have relatively good bus systems, the busses don't run late enough to accommodate the increasing number of people working evening shifts, he added. Gelato, smoothies, pizza and more: Check out the newest in Bucks' eats These new Bucks County dining spots are serving up everything from gelato, pastries and pizza to green smoothies, cold-pressed juices and acai bowls. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Farida Susanty (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 Domestic airport operators are gearing up for partnerships with foreign investors following the government's move to increase the percentage of foreign ownership allowed in the airport management business. The Transportation Ministry recently agreed to increase the maximum from 49 percent to 67 percent, following the government's move to completely open several business sectors for foreign investment. State-owned airport operator Angkasa Pura (AP) I stated that it was ready for a partnership with foreign players but was currently awaiting details of the regulation. 'We have signed several memorandums of understanding (MoU) over the years but we need the Transportation Ministry to provide the detailed regulation before we move forward,' AP I corporate secretary Farid Indra Nugraha said recently. Farid said that Angkasa Pura I had signed an MoU with Indian leading conglomerate GVK Group in January 2011 for the development of an airport in Kulonprogo in Yogyakarta. Construction of the Kulonprogo airport was intended to commence in 2014, but it has been delayed until this year due to land acquisition problems. The government aims to start building the airport sometime this year and open it by 2019. 'Now we're trying to prepare technical aspects for international bidding for the Kulonprogo airport,' he said. He said Angkasa Pura I felt positive about the future partnership because it had also inked a cooperation with GVK group for the maintenance of the non-aeronautical commercial operation of Ngurah Rai International Airport in Bali. That agreement, signed in 2013, has been deemed fruitful. 'The sales volume from 3 years ago has now risen 300 percent,' Farid added. He also said that the transfer of knowledge and systems was another benefit of foreign partnerships. GVK itself is the main operator of India's two busiest airports: Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport in Mumbai and Bengaluru International Airport in Bangalore. Farid also mentioned ongoing discussions about partnering with Japan for the operation of Lombok International Airport, West Nusa Tenggara, with the Japanese counterpart currently doing a feasibility study. The next step would be to draft the joint venture proposal, he said. Japan has also previously expressed its intention to invest US$200 million in the building of a new terminal at Lombok airport. Farid said Angkasa Pura I would seek a possible partnership to run the firm's Frans Kaisiepo Airport in Biak, Papua and El Tari Airport in Kupang, East Nusa Tenggara. 'They have great potential, with marine tourism in Kupang too. We want to try to increase the airports' capacity and improve their facility,' he said. Transportation Minister Ignasius Jonan has previously agreed to open the country's transportation sector for more foreign investment, in a bid to boost the country's logistics performance. The move was part of the revision of Presidential Regulation No. 39/2014 on the negative investment list completed this year. However, Jonan also insisted that the increase in the percentage only applied to the management and not the ownership of airports. Meanwhile, fellow state-owned airport operator Angkasa Pura II president director Budi Karya Sumadi said possible cooperations would be sought for the management of the Soekarno Hatta International Airport in Jakarta and Kualanamu International Airport in Medan. 'The cooperation with foreign partners will be done part by part,' he said, while adding that the Soekarno Hatta International Airport's upcoming new Terminal 3 Ultimate would in fact be operated in partnership with South Korean Incheon Airport Corporation. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 Bandung Mayor Ridwan Kamil has announced that he will stay in Bandung, West Java, until the end of his tenure and does not plan to run for Governor in the 2017 Jakarta Gubernatorial Election despite signs of support from political parties. During a press conference at Bandung City Hall, the prominent architect said that he will remain focused on completing his term as Bandung Mayor, adding that he had come to the decision after he discussed the matter with his family. "I will run for Jakarta [governorship] but not now. I will not run in the 2017 Jakarta Election. I am not finished in Bandung. God willing, when I have completed my term, I can work anywhere in Indonesia. It could be in Jakarta or in West Java or another term as a Mayor," he said as quoted on Periscope live streaming. Working as an architect again is also not entirely off the table, he said. "I hope Jakarta can find a more fitting governor," Ridwan said. Ridwan's name had been endorsed by political parties such as Great Indonesia Movement Party (Gerindra), the former party of Jakarta Governor Basuki "Ahok" Tjahaja Purnama. According to Ridwan, to his surprise, big names like President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo, Gerindra chief patron Prabowo Subianto and speaker of the People's Consultative Assembly (MPR) Zulkifli Hasan had called him to offer their guidance on running as Governor for the country's capital. He suspected the scale of the position to have caused the country's top men to attempt to initiate discussion with him. Ridwan said that he would stick to his decision, even though many people had come to him and said that he had high electability should he run for Jakarta governor's post. "In the math calculation, it is not impossible to win in the Jakarta election," he said. Ridwan said he had made improvements during his time as Bandung Mayor, citing public facilities and bureaucratic reform, adding that there were many challenges such as flooding and worsening traffic congestion that still required attention. Besides the incumbent Ahok, Ridwan and Surabaya Mayor Tri Rismaharini had both garnered support from political parties and the public off the back of their respective performance. Ahok has announced that he will run for Jakarta Governor next year as an independent candidate, having resigned from Gerindra in 2014. (rin)(+) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Stefani Ribka (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 Poultry industry players have denied the allegation from an antimonopoly agency that they have acted like a cartel by controlling production, leading to an oversupply and falling prices and leaving small farmers with financial losses. The Business Competition Supervisory Commission (KPPU) has alleged that 12 companies, including poultry giants Japfa Comfeed Indonesia and Charoen Pokphand Indonesia, coordinated with each other to produce an oversupply of chicken and the concurrent fall in price. Commission head M Syarkawi Rauf said recently the selling price for chickens from farmers was now about Rp 9,000 (67 US Cents) per kilogram, not even enough to cover the standard production cost of Rp 18,000 per kg. Earlier in February, the selling price was around Rp 30,000 per kg. 'Besides the oversupply, these companies have also dominated the market with their own chickens that they possibly produce at a much lower production cost,' Syarkawi told The Jakarta Post recently. However, Japfa marketing director Budiarto Soebijanto said that there was no such cartel as the 12 companies had not cooperated with each other deliberately to create an oversupply or to rule the market price. 'The allegation regarding cartel behavior is not true as we don't cooperate on anything together,' Budiarto said. He said his company had also complied with the Agriculture Ministry's instruction to perform mass culling to reduce parent stocks and help small farmers get a good price in the market. Budiarto added that the current oversupply was caused by the KPPU itself as the agency had instructed the ministry to stop the mass culling in the middle of December. 'So, we didn't perform mass culling in mid-December and that led to an oversupply two months after that,' he said. Last year, Muladno, the ministry's general director for livestock and animal health, instructed at least 12 companies to perform mass culling operations on around 6 million parent stock in three stages to reduce a poultry oversupply that had left small farmers desperate from losses due to the extremely low selling price. 'So, we culled 2 million in October then only 1 million in December as we couldn't continue it when KPPU told the ministry to cease it,' Budiarto said. Budiarto recalled the year 2014 as a difficult time for small farmers as there was an oversupply of live chickens originally caused by an oversupply of parent stock. In 2013, there was flood of parent stock imports under the previous government of Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono. Syarkawi, on the other hand, said mass culling was not the best solution as it could lead back to shortages in the future and a flood of imports again. 'The best temporary solution to tackle falling prices is for the Trade Ministry to set floor and ceiling prices for live chickens so small farmers can still benefit and compete with the giants.' 'Also, the government can amend Law No. 41/2014 on Livestock and Animal Health that allows big companies to also sell products to local markets. Under the old law, their local sales were limited,' he said. Desianto Budi Utomo, secretary general of the Indonesian Feed Millers Association (GPMT), also said the low prices were not caused by cartel activities but by troubled distribution mechanisms and the inability of small farmers to compete with poultry giants. Desianto acknowledged the possibility of market domination by the giants as they had far more advanced technology and were integrated producers with lower production costs and economies of scale. --------------------- To receive comprehensive and earlier access to The Jakarta Post print edition, please subscribe to our epaper through iOS' iTunes, Android's Google Play, Blackberry World or Microsoft's Windows Store. Subscription includes free daily editions of The Nation, The Star Malaysia, the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Asia News. For print subscription, please contact our call center at (+6221) 5360014 or subscription@thejakartapost.com Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Agnes Anya (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 Scholars have recently suggested that an awkward relationship exists between Jakarta residents and the water that surrounds them, claiming the administration and citizens have a tendency to treat water as their enemy, even though Jakarta is a city whose territory covers more sea than land and through which 13 rivers flow. 'Water is a valuable asset. It is not a source of flooding but of livelihood,' said Frank Sedlar, a civil engineer from Michigan University, recently. Frank recently conducted research on flooding in the capital that found that Jakarta residents had low awareness around river conservation due to them having limited access to river water. Frank said that the administration's continued use of sheet piles as walls for rivers had hindered the residents ability to observe the water, their source of daily life. By closing off the rivers with sheet piling, Frank added, the city administration likely created an image that rivers were sources of flooding and hence residents had to stay away from them. Nonetheless, Frank said that he was not entirely against sheet piling as part of river normalization programs. As an engineer, he views concrete as necessary for river engineering. However, he said, the administration should not install sheet piling along every river in the capital. Jakarta Governor Basuki 'Ahok' Tjahaja Purnama previously said that his administration would continue using sheet piles as walls for rivers as experts in cities around the world used the same strategy. Ahok listed experts and government officials from many countries who attended the C40 Connecting Delta Cities Network Workshop in Jakarta from Nov. 12 to 15 last year. The workshop participants came from New York, New Orleans, London, Rotterdam, Copenhagen, Venice, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Bangkok, Singapore and Melbourne. Frank suggested that if the administration allowed residents to observe the rivers, they ' particularly those living near riverbanks ' could take part in detecting floods and, therefore, could spread early warnings through social media. Frank, who also took part in establishing the flood-mapping portal petajakarta.org, said that such a system could also help the administration to predict floods. The call to bring rivers and residents closer together was echoed by an urban architect from Harvard University, Christina Lehigh Geros, who teamed up with Frank in the flooding research. 'To really be aware of the water, you basically have to be able to see the rivers. With the sheet piling, it is difficult for residents to see the water,' said Christina. Like Frank, Christina also suggested that the city administration use more natural technology for river engineering while also engaging people in conservation work. She added that with empowerment, riverbank communities could likely help the administration with not only detecting flooding but maintaining river cleanliness. 'I once had a rafting activity which was organized by residents of the Ciliwung riverbanks in Manggarai, South Jakarta. Knowing that the river is their source of living, they take care of it by cleaning the water and conserving the riverbanks with trees,' Christina said, adding that the atmosphere along the riverbanks made her feel like she was outside of metropolitan Jakarta. Christina then criticized the city administration for evicting large numbers of residents who had lived along riverbanks for years. She is of the view that the number of flood victims in the capital is disproportionate to the vast number of residents that lost their livelihoods as a result of the eviction. She said that during her research, she found a family who had been evicted more than 17 times in 35 years. They always returned to the riverbank as they considered it their home and their way of making a living. Even before Frank and Christina aired their suggestions, Sudirman Asun from the Ciliwung Institute and several other environmental activists had challenged the sheet-piling project at the Jakarta State Administrative Court. Sudirman said many advanced countries had proven that sheet piling was ineffective in mitigating floods. The concrete river walls, they said, could also destroy a river's ecosystem. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Bambang Susantono (The Jakarta Post) Manila Mon, February 29, 2016 With the world looking to Asia to drive economic growth, it's time to remove a major roadblock to the region's prosperity ' subpar infrastructure. We need to close the infrastructure gap, and we can do it by engaging the private sector. Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) are contractual arrangem0ents between a government and a private partner to deliver infrastructure services. They can be simple contracts for private sector-run services, or complex agreements where private firms finance, build and operate big infrastructure projects, before handing them back to the government. In Indonesia, Southeast Asia's biggest economy, there has been good progress on a PPP-friendly legal and regulatory framework, and on a range of enabling instruments including a project development facility. But momentum has been hobbled by a lack of champions and of capacity to push through precedent-setting projects. PPPs are not a silver bullet, but should form a core component of plans to overhaul national infrastructure. Quality infrastructure is key to economic growth and prosperity in developing countries. But the quality of Indonesia's infrastructure is ranked far below that of neighboring Malaysia and Thailand. It's a region-wide problem. Nearly US$1 trillion a year is needed by 2020 to bring Asia and the Pacific's infrastructure up to scratch. Governments can only supply about 60 percent of this amount, so private sector financing of infrastructure and related services is essential. There are some encouraging signs. Papua New Guinea and Vietnam are implementing PPP frameworks. China now has a $27 billion fund for PPPs. The Philippines has awarded 12 projects worth the equivalent of $4.8 billion and Mongolia recently awarded its first PPP ' a $1.3 billion combined heat and power plant. But overall, PPPs are not gaining enough traction to deliver world-class infrastructure across the region. There are three critical issues that need to be addressed to get PPPs on track ' securing the right knowledge and skills; improving the investment climate; and better project preparation. On the first point, we can take some license with the acronym to define PPP as 'Procuring Professional People'. These might be public officials who are confident leaders with the vision and political will to lay the groundwork for PPPs. Or they might be technical experts who make the projects happen on the ground. The expertise to appraise, manage and deliver successful PPPs is crucial. Thankfully, moves are afoot to up skill people involved in PPPs. The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and other multilateral agencies will soon launch a global PPP skills accreditation program to foster a benchmark of expertise and knowledge. Proficiency tests for PPP practitioners will be offered by global accreditation services company APMG International. This is an important initiative, and more such measures are needed to fill the gaping demand for PPP-related skills. To grasp the extent of that demand, consider that a webpage of PPP guidance and basic concepts launched recently by ADB's country office in Beijing often gets 10,000 hits a day. The second challenge ' enhancing the investment climate ' requires bold action by policymakers based on a thorough evaluation of their country's strengths and weaknesses. Governments should minimize risks for private investors by addressing policy, institutional and regulatory barriers to investment. They should fix governance problems, implement transparent procurement systems, and establish viability funding gap mechanisms to mobilize public funding for investments that private sector firms cannot undertake. There is a tool that can help governments evaluate their PPP enabling environment. The Infrascope, a methodology developed in 2009 by the Inter-American Development Bank (ADB), ADB and the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), gives insightful snapshots of regulatory framework quality, government institutional set-up, as well as the investment climate and financial markets of 75 countries. The EIU is expected to update the Infrascope later this year, a process that Indonesia and the rest of Asia should follow closely. Finally, and to take yet more license with the acronym, PPP could also stand for 'Properly Prepared Projects'. Overall, Asia lacks a pipeline of bankable, sustainable deals, largely due to the deficits in skills and investment climates outlined earlier. This is the biggest hurdle to attracting more private investment in infrastructure. For guidance on how to resolve this problem, look no further than the Philippines. Its PPP Center is the government's lead agency for facilitating PPP projects and encompasses a Project Development and Monitoring Facility to prepare and monitor transactions. From just 11 projects in 2010, the Philippines now has 51 projects at various stages of its PPP pipeline. Another positive step is the Asia Pacific Project Preparation Facility, the result of a partnership between Japan, Canada and Australia. This facility will help developing country governments to obtain the strong technical, financial and legal advice need to prepare and structure PPPs. Indonesia's infrastructure challenges are also opportunities. With better skills, more investment and strong project preparation, it can build the infrastructure it needs to drive growth. _________________________________ The writer is vice president, knowledge management and sustainable development at ADB, Manila. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Nany Afrida (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 After drawing criticism for a plan to make defaming presidents a crime, the government may open the door to more criticism for its planned amendment to the Criminal Code (KUHP). The government's amendment contains more articles limiting freedom of speech. The Press Legal Aid Institute (LBH Pers) revealed on Sunday that the government's draft revision contained many new articles that were obscurantist and carried double meanings. It recorded 65 articles in the draft text related to free speech, higher than the current 35 articles in the existing KUHP. LBH Pers research and networking division head Asep Komaruddin said that the use of words such as 'hostile statement' or 'insulted in front of public' would make interpretation difficult. 'Certain people will take benefit from these words due to the possibility of multiple interpretations,' Asep told The Jakarta Post on Sunday. The institute also criticized the severe punishment outlined for defamation, which can reach up to five years in prison. The existing KUHP stipulates that the maximum punishment for the crime of defamation is only one year in prison. 'The article on defamation will be very dangerous and it should not be put in the draft because anyone can be victimized as the government does not include a clear definition of what constitutes defamation,' Asep said. Last year, the government submitted a draft that contained a proposal to make insulting a president or a vice president a crime. The plan drew the ire of the public because similar articles were previously scrapped by the Constitutional Court in 2006. Law and Human Rights Minister Yasonna Laoly said later that the government would compromise and take the position that defamation would only be considered a crime if a president or vice president reported the case to the police. The KUHP amendment is among this year's legislative priorities. President Joko 'Jokowi' Widodo has issued a decree informing legislators that the government was ready to discuss the bill, along with the Criminal Law Procedures Code (KUHAP). Asep said the latest KUHP revision that the institute was observing still contained 12 articles related to defamation. Other contentious proposals are articles 481 and 482 that penalize someone for spreading information on contraception and abortion. 'What is the reason for this article? Is it for the sake of public morality? The government should give their reasons and declare their interests,' Asep said. Legal analyst Margarito Kamis told the Post that the government should include clear definitions in the new KUHP. 'The terminology should have a single definition so people will not take advantages of it for their own ends and oppress minorities,' he said. He said people might have different points of view on some things, so the government should work to more effectively protect the public sphere. Margarito believed that the revision of the KUHP would bring about positive results for Indonesia's legal system because it would accommodate new trends. Revisions to the KUHP and the KUHAP stalled for years while the House of Representatives sought input from legal experts, legal watchdogs and academics. Among the contentious revisions is a clause that would limit the ability of judges to impose the death penalty in some cases. Arsul Sani, a legislator from House Commission III overseeing legal affairs, said the House was still working on the KUHP draft revision, which contains two books. Book I contains articles 1 to 218, while book II contains articles 219 to 786. 'We have discussed half of Book I already. In the last three weeks, the government still redefined some articles and their explanation after the House gave its input,' he said. ___________________________________ To receive comprehensive and earlier access to The Jakarta Post print edition, please subscribe to our epaper through iOS' iTunes, Android's Google Play, Blackberry World or Microsoft's Windows Store. Subscription includes free daily editions of The Nation, The Star Malaysia, the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Asia News. For print subscription, please contact our call center at (+6221) 5360014 or subscription@thejakartapost.com Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Erika Anindita Dewi (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 All children in Indonesia will have identity cards with single numbers, which will remain valid throughout their lifetimes, a minister has said. Home Minister Tjahjo Kumolo said the identity cards, called Kartu Identitas Anak (KIA), or Child Identity Cards, would be the official identity cards for unmarried Indonesians aged below 18 years old. KIA would be one of two identity cards, the other being student cards, issued to Indonesian children. 'Their identity cards will be automatically changed into citizen identity cards [KTP] once they turn 17. This is because their identity numbers cannot change,' the minister told journalists before he attended a committee meeting at the House of Representatives' Commission II overseeing home affairs at the House complex in Jakarta on Monday. The Home Ministry announced in early February that it would issue identity cards to all Indonesian children starting in March 2016. The identity cards would be divided into two categories, namely identity cards for children under 5 years old and those for children aged between 5 and 17 years old. The Civil Registration Office will issue identity cards to newborns along with their birth certificates. According to the ministry, the government is ready to pilot the implementation of the program in 50 regions. Overall, the policy will be implemented in 514 regencies and municipalities across Indonesia. Tjahjo explained that the government would adopt the child identity card issuance system already used by 10 regions. The minister said pilot projects for the state-funded KIA program had already been implemented in Malang, East Java, Balikpapan in East Kalimantan, Bantul regency in Yogyakarta, Makassar in South Sulawesi and Depok in West Java. 'The government has prepared Rp 8.7 billion [US$650.47 million) for KIA document training in 2016,' said Tjahjo. (ebf) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Arif Gunawan Sulistiyono (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, March 21, 2016 The Energy and Mineral Resources Ministry has awarded 133 contracts worth Rp 3 trillion (US$227 million) to state-owned companies and private corporations to build energy-related infrastructure facilities in 2016. Unlike in previous years, the ministry has moved more quickly in signing the contracts to speed up the construction of infrastructures to support President Joko Jokowi Widodos economic program. The ministry has drastically cut the bureaucratic red-tape that companies must wade through in order to obtain construction permits. Weve already signed all of the contracts for this year, seven months earlier than last year, said Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Sudirman Said on Monday in Jakarta, accompanied by Jokowi and Finance Minister Bambang Brodjonegoro. Twenty four companies took part in the ceremony, representing various contractors. The contractors include giant state-owned energy company Pertamina, state-owned gas distributor PGN and the construction firms Wijaya Karya, Adhi Karya and Hutama Karya. In his remarks, Jokowi said that Indonesia would need to be more competitive in meeting its food and energy needs in the next 30 years. I always remind people to focus on food and energy. To achieve that goal we have to build the infrastructure, he said. The contract signing on Monday was the third, and by far the largest, wave of contracts that the ministry has signed in 2016. The first two waves, on Jan. 14 and Feb. 2, had a combined value of Rp 545 billion. Earlier contracts included the construction of natural-gas stations, gas pipeline networks, micro-hydro power plants, solar-powered electric generators, waste-based power plants and bio-gas power plants. The largest contract, worth Rp 493 billion, was for a gas pipeline project in Prabumulih in South Sumatra. The contract went to three state-owned companies, namely PT Wijaya Karya, PT Nindya Karya and PT Rekayasa Industri. (ags) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 Kebon Jeruk Police held a workshop for children in neighborhood unit (RT) 01, community unit (RW) 08, on Jl. Kelapa Dua, West Jakarta, on Saturday in a bid to keep them safe from crime and accidents. Over the course of the workshop, police officers educated the children about issues related to crime and road safety, and also provided them with emergency numbers. 'Children have to be more aware of potential predators, who usually pretend to be kind to minors in order to commit crimes,' said police representative Adj. First Insp. Rustam Efendi as quoted by wartakotalive.com. He added that children were most vulnerable to sexual assaults. Rustam further said that through the workshop the children could also volunteer to be road-safety campaigners to protect themselves and others. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 The body of a junior high school student was found on Jl. Panjang in Kebon Jeruk, West Jakarta, early on Saturday. Kebon Jeruk Police later identified the body as Dimas Ardiansyah, 15, a third grader at SMP 142 junior high school nearby. Precinct chief Comr. Eka Basith, who arrived at the scene after receiving a report from local residents, said the boy died after being assaulted by a group of unidentified men. 'The victim was dead and the perpetrators had escaped when we arrived at the scene,' he said as quoted by wartakotalive.com. 'The victim received severe injuries to his head. We also found two bricks at the scene, apparently used by the perpetrators to kill the victim,' Eka explained. An eyewitness Hendri Susilo said he saw the victim being beaten by a group of men. He did not say how many attackers there were. Eka said police investigators were currently developing the case, including identifying the perpetrators. He said the police were questioning witnesses to try to uncover the identity of the assailants. 'The victim's body has been sent to Cipto Mangunkusumo General Hospital [in Central Jakarta] for medical examination,' he said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Tertiani ZB Simanjuntak (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 A graphic history book tells the untold story of left-wing movements in Indonesia. A newly launched book on the untold story of left-wing ideology in Indonesia was prepared by a group of non-governmental organizations and institutions, artists and history buffs. Sejarah Gerakan Kiri Indonesia untuk Pemula (The History of Indonesian Left Movement for Beginners) contains a series of events taken from published articles and books. Wishnu Yonar Anggono, one of the project's initiators, said they had consulted historians, academics and journalists while drafting the book, a process they began in August last year. 'I believe that by involving historians in the project the book has gone through an accountability process that makes it a historical reference,' he said. The project's other initiators include artists Yayak Yatmaka and Dolorosa Sinaga as well as Bilven, a history lover and owner of Ultimus bookstore in Bandung, West Java. The project involved 30 artists to make the illustrations, each one being a different chapter, which together stretch from the Dutch occupation to the modern era. The highlight of the book is the story of the establishment of the now-defunct Indonesian Communist Party (PKI) down to the mass murder of party members and PKI-associated groups across the country. The 1965 Tragedy, which took place after a foiled coup that was blamed on the PKI on Sept. 30, also marked the start of Soeharto's New Order regime, which lasted for over 32 years. 'The regime denied freedom of expression and indoctrinated people with its single account of history,' said Wishnu, a consultant on governance and economic development. 'We don't think the book is likely to be banned, because its contents come from existing references.' A total 100 pages of the book were exhibited at the Indonesian Legal Aid Institute (YLBHI) in Jakarta in December, the opening of which was presided over by Coordinating Maritime Affairs Minister Rizal Ramli. The book was launched on Feb. 27 at Belok Kiri (Turn Left) Festival, an event held to combat anti-left wing New Order propaganda, which is still experienced today. 'We hope the book can serve as an alternative historical reference, especially for the younger generation,' said Wishnu. 'It's a long-term dream to rewrite history, but at least it's a start to encourage the people to be able to think differently.' Belok Kiri Fest, which will be held through to March 5 at the Jakarta Legal Aid Foundation (LBH Jakarta) ' not at the Taman Ismail Marzuki cultural center as earlier scheduled ' will include art workshops for children and the public as well as discussions with human rights activists Nursyahbani Katjasungkana, Usman Hamid, Haris Azhar, historian Asvi Warman Adam and many others. 'After 50 years of silence, we are using an artistic and cultural approach that will allow each of the festival's attendants to form their own interpretation, who in turn will be able to have their own productive thoughts,' said artist Dolorosa, who is also chair of the festival's organizing committee. According to noted historian Taufik Abdullah, the attempt to rewrite Indonesian history was pioneered by one of the country's founding fathers, Mohammad Hatta, when he was still a student in the Netherlands. In his defense argument titled Indonesie Vrij (Free Indonesia) before the court in Den Haag in 1928, Hatta criticized the Dutch government for naming Indonesian freedom fighters as criminals in the written history of the country. 'For decades there has been a dispute among historians about how to write Indonesian history. [Founding president] Sukarno and late academic Mohammad Yamin divided history into certain periods based on the nation's monumental moments and their visions for the future,' Taufik argued at a recent public lecture in Salihara Theater, Jakarta, titled 'Historiography of Indonesian History'. 'But history is not a romantic vision of a string of historical events. History is the critical reconstruction of such events based on authentic sources. And how can we write a history of the nation without the inclusion of the fact that the nation comprises many nations that are geographically separated from each other?' The conflict in creating a 'national history' continued under the New Order regime, with many historians requesting for their names to be omitted from the government's Sejarah Indonesia (Indonesian History) coffee table book series, particularly sections on the 1965 Tragedy period. 'The regime strictly controlled people's interpretation of some things, but it also opened the door for research and studies on regional history, which is a good thing,' said Taufik. He emphasized the multi-faceted nature of the interpretation of events that allowed for different versions of history in the country. 'It is best practice to focus on teaching local history to school students to instill in them awareness of their surroundings and the vision of nationalism.' Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Dewanti A. Wardhani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 Hundreds of residents were forced to leave their homes amid flooding caused by heavy rain across Greater Jakarta on Saturday night, while a toddler died on Sunday after falling into the Cendrawasih River in West Jakarta. The Meteorology, Climatology and Geophysics Agency (BMKG) previously predicted that the peak of the rainy season would occur between Feb. 22 and Feb. 28. Heavy and prolonged rain from Saturday night until noon on Sunday caused flooding citywide. According to data from the Jakarta Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), West Jakarta was worst affected by the rain, with flooding in 27 areas throughout the municipality and hundreds of residents temporarily evacuated. BPBD spokesman Bambang Suryaputra said the KFT housing complex in Cengkareng Barat, which is privately managed, was among the areas that observed the worst flooding, with up to 70 centimeters of water. Bambang said about 250 residents left their homes, taking shelter in nearby mosques and setting up a communal kitchen. Bambang said the flooding in the residential area was due to the low capacity of pumps in the complex. South Jakarta, Bambang added, was also hit hard, with some areas seeing flooding of up to 1 meter. The Grogol River, which passes through several neighborhoods in Pondok Labu and Lebak Bulus, South Jakarta, burst its banks and caused severe flooding. Although the water had receded by noon, dozens of houses were left inundated and some residents were evacuated to nearby mosques while others chose to stay on the second floor of their homes. 'Currently, we have the situation under control. Unfortunately, one resident died this morning after falling into a river,' Bambang said on Sunday afternoon. A 21-month-old toddler died early on Sunday after falling into the Cendrawasih River. Cengkareng Police criminal reserve unit chief Adj. Comr. Mohammad Taufik Iksan said the toddler was playing with his older sister in the kitchen of their home, which is situated on a riverbank. A door leading to the river was left open, and the toddler slipped and fell into the water, which was flowing strongly after the downpour. The toddler, he said, was carried by the current and was found 2 kilometers from where he fell. Taufik said the child was unconscious when he was found, and was quickly taken to the Cengkareng community health center (Puskesmas). 'He was taken to the Cengkareng Puskesmas. Unfortunately he could not be saved,' Taufik said. Neighboring cities also experienced flooding, including Bogor, Depok and Bekasi in West Java. Antara news agency reported that Situ Gede Lake in Bogor overflowed and inundated dozens of homes. Situ Gede subdistrict head Junaidi said the lake overflowed due to heavy rain, which occurred from early morning until afternoon. The flooding, he said, reached up to 80 centimeters in depth on the nearby Jl. Tambakan. The heavy rainfall also caused landslides in several areas such Bubulak and Tanah Sareal, but the five victims involved only suffered minor injuries. Several areas in Bekasi were also inundated as a result of heavy rain in Bogor, including high-income housing complexes Pondok Gede Permai and Pondok Mitra Lestari. Bekasi BPBD head Heri Ismiradi said residents did not seek refuge but moved their belongings to the upper floors of their homes, and parked their vehicles in dry places. Jakarta Governor Basuki 'Ahok' Tjahaja Purnama said on Thursday that Jakarta's floods could only be solved with pumps and a giant sea wall. The city is currently holding a tender for phase A of the National Capital Integrated Coastal Development (NCICD) plan, involving a 4-kilometer sea wall. When asked about stopping land subsidence, which many experts say is caused by groundwater extraction, Ahok said it would be difficult to force commercial buildings to stop using groundwater. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Ayomi Amindoni (The Jakarta Post) Mon, February 29, 2016 The government requires more time to deliberate on the long-awaited Masela gas-block development, given the scale and the complexity of the project, President Joko "Jokowi" Widodo has said. He stated that the government's main concen regards how people in Eastern Indonesia, particularly in South Maluku, might receive maximum benefit from the mega project. "This huge long-term project is still in the study-phase and will be decided upon in 2018. The final investment decision (FID) is scheduled for 2018. ['] We cannot allow people in the region to miss out on the opportunity to benefit," Jokowi said on Monday. Meanwhile, Energy and Mineral Resources Minister Sudirman Said warned that the plan of development (POD) should be decided upon soon, otherwise the project FID would experience delay. '[Assuming the FID comes in 2018], construction will begin in 2019 and operations in 2024," he said, adding that the ministry had made reports on both Masela development scenarios, onshore or offshore, and had noted the impact of such development in Southern Maluku and the amount of investment needed. "The Maluku Governor has said that he is in favor of the project and will support the President's decision and policies on the Masela Block, whatever they may be," said Sudirman. Earlier, Coordinating Maritime Affairs Minister Rizal Ramli claimed the government had decided on an onshore scheme for Masela. According to Rizal, the approximate cost for onshore refinery construction is US$16 billion, significantly cheaper than the $22 billion required for offshore development. (ags)(+) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin The Jakarta Post Semarang Mon, February 29, 2016 Hundreds of vendors at Yaik Baru market in Semarang, Central Java, moved goods out from their kiosks in panic on Saturday evening after a fire razed some parts of the traditional market. Although the fire was quickly extinguished after burning down nine stalls, the vendors said they were still worried that another incident might arise. In May last year a huge fire razed thousands of kiosks at the neighboring Johar market. Yaik Baru vendors' association head, Mudasir, said the fire had started at around 7:30 p.m. local time and lasted for roughly 90 minutes. 'Before the arrival of the fire trucks, we tried to extinguish the fire with any means available,' he said on Sunday. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin The Jakarta Post Batam Mon, February 29, 2016 Indonesian and Norwegian authorities will launch a joint investigation after the interception of the Nigerian flagged fishing vessel Viking last week in the Riau Islands waters. Tanjung Pinang Naval Base spokesperson Maj. Josdy Damapoli said Norway had previously issued an Interpol Purple Notice on the 2,000-gross ton vessel that had allegedly been engaged in illegal fishing and also violated a number of national and international laws. 'The vessel's modus operandi is still under investigation,' Josdy said on Sunday, adding that the Indonesian Navy was still waiting the arrival of Norwegian officials to begin the joint investigation. The vessel was stopped on Feb. 25 by a Navy warship following information from Interpol and Singapore's Information Fusion Centre (IFC). The Navy has detained the vessel's 11 crew members, six of whom are Indonesian. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Arientha Primanita (The Jakarta Post) Mon, March 21, 2016 The planned demolition of the Kalijodo red-light district in North Jakarta came to fruition on Monday morning , despite six families having insisted on staying in the area. The Jakarta administration, backed by thousands officers from Jakarta Police and Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) military personnel, began to demolish the infamous prostitution area on Monday morning with excavators and other heavy equipment. The city first tore down Intan Cafe, owned by prominent local figure Abdul Azis aka Daeng Azis, Kompas.com reported. Azis, who allegedly controlled most of the operations in Kalijodo, has recently been named as a suspect in both human trafficking and electricity theft cases by the Jakarta Police. North Jakarta Mayor Rustam Effendi, who lead the closure, said that Intan Cafe had been the first to be torn down as its owner had not demolished the building themselves following a third warning issued by the city. The city administration had given local residents 11 days to tear down their own building and or buildings and leave Kalijodo. On Monday, at least six families continued to insist on staying in Kalijodo amid the demolition. Rustam told Antara News Agency that the city would take a persuasive approach to convince the families to leave. Hundreds of families have been relocated from Kalijodo to city-owned low-cost apartments (Rusunawa) in Marund, North Jakarta and Pulogebang in East Jakarta. The city administration aims to transform the Kalijodo area into a green space area. (rin) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Eunice Au (The Jakarta Post) Kuala Lumpur Mon, February 29, 2016 Malaysia's former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad announced on Monday his intention to leave the ruling Umno party after months of criticisms of Prime Minister Najib Razak went unheeded. He told a packed news conference that Umno was no longer what it used to be and is now "Najib's party". "I want to leave Umno because it is no longer Umno. It is a party dedicated to supporting Najib, protecting Najib to upholding whatever he does, including some of the wrong things he has done", said Mahathir. "I cannot be a member of such a party," he said, adding that his wife Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali was also leaving the party. Mahathir said he will not be joining any other party because he is "Umno at heart". However, he will be aligning himself to a core group of Malaysians who have the same goal of seeing Najib removed from power. This is the second time Mahathir is quitting Umno, which he led from 1981 to 2003 when he was prime minister. He first quit in May 2008 during the tenure of then Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. In 2009, he rejoined Umno when Najib became prime minister. The feud between Mahathir and Najib has gripped the nation for almost a year, with Mahathir repeatedly calling on Najib, his former protege, to step down over a financial scandal at state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). In a Feb 5 posting on his personal blog, Mahathir wrote that Attorney-General Mohamed Apandi Ali had 'no credibility' after he cleared Najib of any criminal offences or corruption arising from a graft probe into a US$681 million deposit in Najib's personal bank account. Najib replaced the previous attorney-general and appointed Tan Sri Apandi just weeks after a Wall Street Journal report on 1MDB revealed the deposits of vast sums in Najib's accounts.(+) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Apriadi Gunawan (The Jakarta Post) Medan Mon, February 29, 2016 The management of Medan Zoo in North Sumatra will no longer choose animals that are too old for its breeding program following the recent death of a Sumatran tiger cub as a result of premature birth and malnutrition. The zoo had earlier made headlines after the tiger cub was born at its compound on Feb. 19. The cub's mother was an 18-year-old female tiger named Manis. Manis had previously given birth to three other cubs fathered by her mate, 19-year-old Anhar. The condition of the cub, which was estimated to be 2.3 kilograms in weight and 30 centimeters long at birth, however, quickly deteriorated as a result of its premature birth and Manis' inability to produce enough milk for her cub. The cub died last Friday, just eight days after it was born. 'A Sumatran tiger normally gives birth after a 115-day pregnancy. The ill-fated cub, however, was born after a 70-day pregnancy,' the zoo's health and conservation affairs head, Sucitrawan, said on Sunday. Medan Zoo manager Zainul Akbar Nasution said the death of the cub was the first for the zoo, which now has nine Sumatran tigers. Following the incident, the zoo's veterinarians have recommended the separation of older animals from their mates to prevent another premature birth, Zainul said. 'We don't want to see another premature birth from a mother that is too old to reproduce,' he said. Medan Zoo currently has 180 animals from 45 species in its collection. Apart from Manis and Anhar, other older animals include two elephants and two sun bears. The Switzerland-based International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has listed the Sumatran tiger as a critically endangered species since 1996. The organization reported that the species had been struggling with habitat loss amid the expansion of oil palm and acacia plantations, as well as illegal trading, primarily for the domestic market. Poachers frequently hunt the tigers, which are native to the vast and diverse habitats of Sumatra, as their body parts fetch high prices for their use in traditional medicines in Asia. In August last year, the police arrested four men for allegedly killing a Sumatran tiger and trying to sell its body parts. Without human intervention, the Sumatran tiger can live for around 20 years before dying from natural causes. The males are ready to mate when they reach five years old, while the females are ready at about three-and-a-half years of age. Sucitrawan said the cub looked very weak prior to its death. The zoo's veterinarians, however, were not immediately aware of the situation as Manis was extremely protective and refused to allow anyone near her cub. 'The mother is too old so she could not produce enough milk,' she said. The local administration-owned company Perusahaan Daerah Kota Medan acting chief Putrama alKhairi, who also serves as the zoo's supervisor, said the remains of the ill-fated cub would be preserved along with several other animals that had died in recent months. '[The remains of] every animal that dies in the Medan Zoo are preserved,' he said. Putrama also expressed concern about the death of the cub, saying that the zoo management always provided enough nutrition for all animals in its collection, including Manis. 'We tried our best to help the cub to survive. However, we only managed to save its mother,' he said. Last month, a Sumatran tiger at the Kinantan Cultural and Wildlife Park (TMBK) in Bukittinggi, West Sumatra, gave birth to a pair of male cubs, increasing the number of Sumatran tigers at the park to seven. Data from West Sumatra Natural Resources Conservation Agency (BKSDA) shows that the population of Sumatran tigers in the wild currently stands at around 400 in the whole of Sumatra. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 National Commission of Human Rights (Komnas HAM) member Hafidz Abbas has decried the involvement of Indonesian Military (TNI) personnel in the demolition of buildings in the Kalijodo red-light-district in North Jakarta starting on Monday. He said that he suspected that military personnel had been involved as a show of force against Kalijodo residents who were still resisting the eviction. 'It was previously said that this removal was aimed at maintaining public order in the area. If so, they [city officials] should initiate a dialogue in implementing their plan. But what we can see right now does not give the impression that the Kalijodo eviction has involved a dialogue with residents at all. There's only arrogance,' said Hafidz as quoted by kompas.com on Monday. The commissioner further said that if the city administration was acting in the spirit of reform, it should not involve TNI personnel in any building demolition activities, such as those currently taking place in Kalijodo. 'Eighteen years ago, we agreed that the TNI should not be involved in such activities anymore,' he said. Hafidz went on to say that the Jakarta administration should initiate dialogue with Kalijodo residents who were still holding out in their homes. Hafidz plans to visit Kalijodo on Monday to help residents who have decided to hold out in the area. 'I believe that if they are approached carefully, they will agree to move from their homes,' he said. Separately, Jakarta Legislative Council Deputy Speaker Mohamad Taufik has called on city administration officials to be transparent about the number of families who were still holding out at their homes in Kalijodo on Monday. 'This shows that they [city officials] are not transparent about the data. It's dangerous if they manipulate data in their building demolition plan. Mayors of the impacted areas earlier said there were only one or two families who were still holding out in their homes but according to media reports, there are still 65 families in the location,' said Taufik as reported by kompas.com on Monday. The lawmaker said the Jakarta administration should communicate with all Kalijodo residents who were still the area. 'Please talk to them. If they are approached carefully, I'm sure that they will respond in a positive way,' said Taufik. The Jakarta administration said earlier on Monday that it would begin to demolish buildings in the Kalijodo area to transform it into what it was originally zoned as; open green space. A joint team of around 6,000 personnel is reportedly involved in the demolition. The group consists of TNI and National Police personnel and security officers from the Jakarta administration, including the Public Order Agency (Satpol PP). (ebf) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Haeril Halim, Syofiardi Bachyul Jb and Rizal Harahap (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta/Padang/Pekanbaru Mon, February 29, 2016 The Home Ministry has ordered local administrations in Kalimantan and Sumatra to launch preventive measures to contain forest fire after the National Disaster Mitigation Agency (BNPB) discovered a growing number of hot spots in the two provinces. In Sumatra, small fires were detected in 68 locations on Sunday, which, if not tackled immediately could grow bigger to become forest fires in the near future. Satellite data also showed 38 hot spots in East Kalimantan and one in North Kalimantan on the same day. The ministry said on Sunday that local administrations in the two provinces had followed up on its instructions by launching a joint operation with local branches of the BNPB, the police and the Indonesian Military (TNI) to contain the growing hot spots. Failures to contain hot spots last year resulted in the burning of 2.61 million hectares of forest and peatlands in Sumatra and Kalimantan, causing a choking haze for about five months and leaving 21 people dead and more than a half-a-million people suffering from respiratory problems. 'Local administrations [must also] map areas prone to fires in their jurisdictions. They are cooperating with all related parties including the police, the TNI, social and health agencies and the Indonesian Red Cross [PMI],' Home Minister Tjahjo Kumolo told The Jakarta Post. A problem with the instruction is that failure to comply with it carries no punishment or sanctions for local officers, but Tjahjo said that tight monitoring would be carried out by the ministry to ensure that local leaders did their best to prevent forest fires. 'If they cannot afford preventative action [...] they should make a report to the central government,' Tjahjo added. BNPB spokesman Sutopo Purwo Nugroho confirmed on Sunday that local efforts had been made in Sumatra and Kalimantan to put out the growing small fires, and had already decreased the number of hot spots from 69 in Sumatra and 24 in East Kalimantan on Saturday. However, the number of fires in North Kalimantan increased to four on Sunday due to intensive land clearing by local farmers. 'Kutai Kartanegara and East Kutai [regencies] started to see fires 2 weeks ago. Our satellite always detects new fires there. It means that new land clearing keeps happening,' Sutopo added. Last year's fire crisis cost the economy Rp 221 trillion (US$16.5 billion), or around 1.9 percent of the country's GDP, or more than double what was spent on rebuilding Aceh after the 2004 tsunami. In addition, efforts to extinguish the fires cost the BNPB alone around Rp 734.5 billion. That amount does not include the hundreds of billions of rupiah spent by related ministries and government agencies on fire-containment efforts last year. Fire-containment efforts in Kalimantan and Sumatra this year include the establishment of canal separators in a number places, Sutopo explained, adding that 'any emergence of new fires will be automatically dealt with by local officers'. Although it is difficult to imagine no fires at all in Kalimantan and Sumatra due to the huge area of peatlands and forests prone to fires there, this year's fires are expected to be far less serious than last year's because 2016 has seen a relatively wet dry season compared with 2015. 'The El NiAo weather phenomenon is expected to end in April, then the onset of La NiAa will be stronger which will make this year's dry season relatively wet across Indonesia. This situation will assist fire containment efforts for the whole year,' Sutopo added. _______________________________________ To receive comprehensive and earlier access to The Jakarta Post print edition, please subscribe to our epaper through iOS' iTunes, Android's Google Play, Blackberry World or Microsoft's Windows Store. Subscription includes free daily editions of The Nation, The Star Malaysia, the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Asia News. For print subscription, please contact our call center at (+6221) 5360014 or subscription@thejakartapost.com Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 The Constitutional Court has decided that re-elections must take place in several areas across five regencies after the discovery of election fraud in last year's elections. Court spokesman Fajar Laksono said the regions were Mamberamo Raya in Papua, South Halmahera in North Maluku, Teluk Bintuni in West Papua, Sula Islands in North Maluku and Muna in Southeast Sulawesi. The re-elections will be held within 30 days. 'As as a result, the winners of the elections in the five districts have yet to be decided,' Fajar said on Saturday as quoted by Antara news agency. The Constitutional Court also ordered the General Elections Commission (KPU) and the Election Supervisory Committee to supervise the process. The country held its first concurrent regional elections last year on Dec. 9 in 264 regions. While relatively peaceful, the KPU and the Home Ministry have prepared revisions to the 2015 Regional Election Law. Home Minister Tjahjo Kumolo said the draft revision was expected to be submitted to the House of Representatives before the end of this month and would contain 15 new provisions, including on candidacy, dispute settlement and political dynasties. The next elections, scheduled for Feb. 15, 2017, will be held in seven provinces, 18 cities and 76 regencies. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 The Indonesian Ulema Council (MUI) supported on Sunday a new plan proposed by leaders from the House of Representatives to conduct routine narcotics tests for legislators. United Development Party (PPP) legislator Fanny Safriansyah, better known as Ivan Haz, was recently arrested in a drug raid at an Army Strategic Reserve Command (Kostrad) housing complex in South Jakarta. 'We agree that the House should conduct narcotics tests for legislators after they are inaugurated,' said MUI leader Cholil Nafis as quoted by tribunnews.com. He said that the tests would be in line with the government's ongoing anti-narcotics campaign. House Deputy Speaker Fadli Zon of the Gerindra Party earlier said that the involvement of legislators in drug cases was a serious problem that should be swiftly addressed. '[The tests] can be held regularly. There is a plan with [the National Narcotics Agency] to conduct tests for all legislators and government officials,' he said. Ivan was a caught along with 19 military men, five police officials and eight civilians. Indonesian Military (TNI) chief Gen. Gatot Nurmantyo said that he would directly dismiss any military official involved in drug use and drug trafficking. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Grace D. Amianti (The Jakarta Post) Denpasar Mon, February 29, 2016 The government's plan to setup a new taxation office to boost tax collection will not materialize soon as legislators have postponed deliberations on a bill dealing with the issue. The new taxation office will only be established within the next two years if legislators intensively discuss the proposed legislation, which is officially called the General Taxation System bill. Irawan, a director at the Finance Ministry, said the government had decided to postpone deliberations on the bill with the House of Representatives and would instead focus on deliberations of the Tax Amnesty bill. Irawan said the General Taxation System bill was previously expected to be completed by the end of 2015, so that the process for setting up the new taxation office could be completed before its launch in January 2017. However, the government and the House agreed to deliberate on the Tax Amnesty bill first and the General Taxation System bill later. 'We hope that the new agency will start operating on Jan. 1, 2018 after we complete and pass the Tax Amnesty bill into law this year,' he said recently. The government has already submitted the Tax Amnesty bill to the House and it expects that the bill could be passed into law in the first half of this year and implemented in the second half of this year. Unlike the existing taxation directorate general, which is part of the Finance Ministry, the new taxation office will be more autonomous and separate from the ministry. It will operate under the direct supervision of the President but will coordinate with the finance minister. With such autonomy, Irawan said the future taxation office would follow international practices where governments separated tax policies and tax administration in order to ensure the strength of their tax authorities. The future taxation office will also have more capacity to enhance tax revenues as it will have more flexibility to recruit its own tax auditors and collectors anytime it needs. 'Currently, we have a 4,500-strong workforce to audit and collect taxes, but it's still too low because we need to have around 30,000 to 40,000 people,' Irawan said, pointing out that tax revenues would increase annually and tax sources would keep expanding. Aside from recruiting and dismissing its own employees, the future tax office will also be able to give incentives and manage its own budget, former taxation director general Fuad Rahmany said. The total tax target is currently set at Rp 1.36 quadrillion for 2016, which is 28.2 percent higher than the Rp 1.06 quadrillion achieved in 2015. The country's large tax revenue target has forced the Tax Office to apply new methods in its tax expansion program in order to seek prospective businesses from various economic sectors across the country that have not yet registered as taxpayers and do not own a tax file number (NPWP). In a country of 250 million people, there are currently only 27 million registered taxpayers, data from the Tax Office shows. One of the new methods in the tax expansion program is using geo-tagging technology, a form of geospatial metadata, which enables tax auditors to identify small and medium-sized enterprises without a NPWP. Awan Nurmawan Nuh, the Tax Office's director for expansion and valuation, said technology enabled tax auditors in all regions to use their computers and gadgets to spot and identify prospective businesses without a NPWP, so that they could be listed and targeted as new taxpayers. 'Each region has its own potential economic sector, such as trading and plantation. As of now, we have already geo-tagged about 440,000 businesses across the country and hope that the full mapping process will be completed on April 30,' he said. __________________________________________ To receive comprehensive and earlier access to The Jakarta Post print edition, please subscribe to our epaper through iOS' iTunes, Android's Google Play, Blackberry World or Microsoft's Windows Store. Subscription includes free daily editions of The Nation, The Star Malaysia, the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Asia News. For print subscription, please contact our call center at (+6221) 5360014 or subscription@thejakartapost.com Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Eric Talmadge and Jon Chol Jin (The Jakarta Post) Pyongyang Mon, February 29, 2016 North Korea presented a detained American student before the media on Monday in Pyongyang, where he tearfully apologized for attempting to steal a political banner ' at the behest, he said, of a member of a church back home who wanted it as a "trophy" ' from a staff-only section of the hotel where he had been staying. North Korea announced in late January it had arrested Otto Warmbier, a 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. It said that after entering the country as a tourist he committed an anti-state crime with "the tacit connivance of the US government and under its manipulation." No details of what kind of charges or punishment Warmbier faces were immediately released. According to Warmbier's statement Monday, he wanted the banner with a political slogan on it as a trophy for the church member, who was the mother of a friend. In previous cases, people who have been detained in North Korea and given a public confession often recant those admissions after their release. He was arrested while visiting the country with Young Pioneer Tours, an agency specializing in travel to the North, which is strongly discouraged by the U.S. State Department. He had been staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, which is located on an island in a river that runs through Pyongyang. It is common for sections of tourist hotels to be reserved for North Korean staff and off-limits to foreigners. Warmbier is a native of Ohio and Ohio Gov. John Kasich, while campaigning in New Hampshire as a Republican presidential candidate, called the arrest "inexcusable." Kasich has urged President Barack Obama to "make every effort to secure Mr. Warmbier's immediate release and keep [his] family constantly apprised." Kasich said North Korea should either provide evidence of the alleged anti-state activities or release Warmbier. In his comments, Warmbier said he was offered a used car worth US$10,000 by a member of the church. He said the church member told him the slogan would be hung on its wall as a trophy. He also said he was told that if he was detained and not returned, $200,000 would be paid to his mother in a way of charitable donations. Calls to the Friendship United Methodist Church went unanswered Monday. Warmbier named that as the church his acquaintance belonged to and there is church of that name in his hometown, Wyoming, Ohio. He said he was also encouraged in his act by the "Z Society" at the University of Virginia, which he said he was trying to join. The magazine of the university's alumni association describes the Z Society as a "semi-secret ring society" that was founded in 1892 and conducts philanthropy, puts on honorary dinners and grants academic awards. Warmbier said he accepted the offer of money because his family is "suffering from very severe financial difficulties." "I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money," he said, adding that if he ever mentioned the involvement of the church, "no payments would come." North Korea regularly accuses Washington and Seoul of sending spies to overthrow its government to enable the US-backed South Korean government to control the Korean Peninsula. US tourism to North Korea is legal and virtually all Americans who make the journey return home without incident. Even so, the State Department has repeatedly warned against travel to the North. Visitors, especially those from America, who break the country's sometimes murky rules risk detention, arrest and possible jail sentences. Young Pioneer describes itself on its website as providing "budget tours to destinations your mother would rather you stayed away from." The agency, based in China, also has tours to Iran, Cuba, Turkmenistan, Iraq and other former Soviet countries. After Warmbier's detention, it stressed in a news release that he was the first of the 7,000 people it has taken to North Korea over the past eight years to face arrest. "Despite what you may hear, North Korea is probably one of the safest places on Earth to visit," it says on its website. In the past, North Korea has held out until senior US officials or statesmen came to personally bail out detainees, all the way up to former President Bill Clinton, whose visit in 2009 secured the freedom of American journalists Euna Lee and Laura Ling. Both had crossed North Korea's border from China illegally. It took a visit in November 2014 by US spy chief James Clapper to bring home Matthew Miller, who had ripped up his visa when entering the country, and Korean-American missionary Kenneth Bae, who had been incarcerated since November 2012. Jeffrey Fowle, another US tourist from Ohio detained for six months at about the same time as Miller, was released just before that and sent home on a US government plane. He left a Bible in a local club hoping a North Korean would find it, which is considered a criminal offense in North Korea. ___ Talmadge, the AP's Pyongyang bureau chief, reported from Tokyo. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Nany Afrida and Wahyoe Boediwardhana (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta/Surabaya Mon, February 29, 2016 The government is still working on the infrastructure needed to accommodate three new submarines from South Korea, with the project scheduled to be completed in December. Based on the procurement contract between the government and Daewoo Shipbuilding Marine Engineering (DSME), the submarines were scheduled to be delivered last year and this year. Now, the Defense Ministry has revealed that South Korea will be ready to deliver the three submarines by September, however, as Indonesia has yet to complete the necessary infrastructure, the delivery has been postponed until December. 'The government has disbursed Rp 1.5 trillion [US$112.1 million] to PT PAL for building the submarine infrastructure, including hangars and floating equipment,' Rear Admiral Leonardi, chief of the Defense Ministry's procurement center told The Jakarta Post in Jakarta recently. It was reported that the Defense Ministry and DSME signed the contract for the three Chang Bogo-class submarines in 2011. The contract was worth $1.07 billion. Under the contract, two submarines would be built in South Korea in cooperation with state-owned shipbuilder PT PAL, while the third submarine would be built at PT PAL's facilities in Surabaya. Leonardi said that besides infrastructure preparation, Indonesia also needed to train the crew members and operators who would be building the submarine in Surabaya, East Java. 'We're confident all plans are on track, because we have already pushed back the deadline,' Leonardi said. That optimism is also shared by PT PAL production director Edy Widarto, who said that the development was still on track and would be accomplished in December. According to Edy, PT PAL's new submarine infrastructure will have the capacity to build or restore two submarines at once. 'We can even use the same infrastructure to build a surface warship, such as missile destroyer warship [PKR], which we will build with Dutch shipbuilder Damen Schelde Naval Shipbuilding [DSNS],' Edy told the Post in Surabaya on Wednesday. Edy acknowledged that there was a delay in the plan due to budget disbursement issues. However, he asserted that submarine modules would be delivered from South Korea in December, and that PAL would start to assemble them in January 2017. Edy said PT PAL would assemble the modules under the supervision of DSME's experts. 'Our technicians are ready. We have good quality people. We have the necessary experience to assemble warship modules quickly and accurately,' Edy said. PT PAL is an experienced ship builder, the company having built several warships for the Indonesian armed forces (TNI) and also products for sale overseas. In addition to Chang Bogo-class submarines, the Indonesian Navy has revealed its plans to purchase another two new Kilo-class submarines from Russia to expand its fleet. The procurement is part of a strategic plan for 2015 to 2019. However, the Navy has yet to decide on which type of Kilo-class submarines to order. Submarines, with their stealth capacity, are regarded as effective deterrents and Indonesian needs at least 12 such vessels to protect its territory. The Navy currently operates two German-made submarines, the KRI Cakra (401) and KRI Nenggala (402), which were built in the 1980s. The vessels are due to be decommissioned in 2020. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Anggi M. Lubis (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 Foreign ministers from the 10 ASEAN countries have expressed concern over heated tensions in the South China Sea, emphasizing the need to safeguard security, peace and stability in the area. A joint statement said the ministers 'remained seriously concerned over recent and ongoing developments and [had taken] note of the concerns expressed by some members about land reclamation and the escalation of activity' in the South China Sea. They also called for faster implementation of the 2002 Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea (DOC), signed by ASEAN and China, and the finalizing of a long-delayed, more-binding Code of Conduct (COC). The ministers were gathered in Vientieanne for the first ASEAN Foreign Ministers Retreat since the regional community was formally launched late last year. The situation is tense in the South China Sea, where China is aggressively reclaiming a number of artificial islands, aggravating three ASEAN neighbors ' Vietnam, Malaysia and the Philippines ' as well as its rival the US. 'We call for non-militarization in the South China Sea,' Vietnamese deputy prime minister and foreign minister Pham Binh Minh said, as quoted by Reuters. 'We have serious concerns about that,' he said, when asked about China's increasing military activity in the region. The statement added that China's actions had 'eroded trust and confidence, increased tensions' and could 'undermine peace, security and stability in the region'. Cambodian foreign minister Hor Namhong said ASEAN would seek a meeting with China over the matter, though no date or venue had been set, Associated Press reported. At the US-ASEAN Summit held in Sunnylands, California, earlier this month, the territorial dispute was a major topic, but the resulting joint statement did not specifically name the South China Sea, instead calling for 'respect for each nation's sovereignty and for international law'. The ministers at the AMM retreat stated that 'every potential dispute should be solved peacefully, including respecting diplomatic and legal processes, without using violence or the threat of violence'. China's maritime claims are ASEAN's most contentious issue, as its members struggle to balance their responses with their growing economic relations with Beijing. China is the biggest trade partner for many ASEAN nations. In facing regional and international issues, both traditional and non-traditional, the foreign ministers agree that centrality and unity should be prioritized by member countries, according to the joint statement. 'Unity and centrality are important for ASEAN to have in the driver's seat as it shapes the region's development and contributes to the handling of global challenges,' Indonesian Foreign Minister Retno LP Marsudi told The Jakarta Post in a text message on Sunday. The commencement of the ASEAN Community in December 2015 and the adoption of the ASEAN Community Vision 2025 obliged member countries to tighten cooperation, she added. Other matters were on the agenda too. The ministers reiterated their perennial call for the nuclear disarmament of the Korean Peninsula. They also addressed extremism, in the wake of an attack in Jakarta last January that left eight people dead. 'The threat is real. It's no longer fictitious or mere imagination,' Malaysia's Foreign Minister Anifah Aman said as quoted by AP. The meeting also discussed climate change and irregular migration. Other topics included ways to bring about ever-closer economic cooperation after the advent of the ASEAN Economic Community at the end of last year. Evi Fitriani, an international relations expert from the University of Indonesia, agreed that centrality and unity would be the answer for ASEAN in facing regional and international challenges. 'ASEAN comprises small and semi-developed countries. To face bigger and more developed countries, they need to join hands to boost their bargaining position,' she told the Post. ASEAN should set clearer goals to determine the course of the community, she said, criticizing the community's framework as too elitist, with only top officials familiar with the details and little information disseminated to ordinary citizens, a move she called counterproductive to materializing the concept of the community. _________________________________ To receive comprehensive and earlier access to The Jakarta Post print edition, please subscribe to our epaper through iOS' iTunes, Android's Google Play, Blackberry World or Microsoft's Windows Store. Subscription includes free daily editions of The Nation, The Star Malaysia, the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Asia News. For print subscription, please contact our call center at (+6221) 5360014 or subscription@thejakartapost.com Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Suherdjoko (The Jakarta Post) Semarang Mon, February 29, 2016 Semarang Mayor Hendrar Prihadi has said his administration will immediately renovate kiosks that were damaged when a fire broke out at the Ya'ik market in Semarang on Saturday evening. 'The value of buildings damaged in the fire is around Rp 190 million [US$14,184.41] while the total financial loss caused by the incident reaches around Rp 4.9 billion. We will help them [fire victims], although our help may not be proportional to the losses experienced by the market's vendors,' he said as quoted by tribunnews.com on Monday. The mayor made the statement after meeting with the Semarang Market Agency and representatives of the Ya'ik market vendors at the Hotel Metro, Semarang. Hendrar said the Semarang administration, via the Regional Disaster Mitigation Agency (BPBD), would give social assistance to the fire victims. 'This aid is a form of stimulation given in the hope that vendors will be able to revive their businesses again. We will approach state lenders Bank Mandiri and BRI and ask them to give payment postponements for fire victims who have loans with those two banks,' he said. The mayor further said the administration had not made any decision to relocate the vendors in the near future. 'The vendors don't want to be relocated. They've said they will use their kiosks after the administration completes the [kiosk] renovation,' said Hendrar. On Sunday, the Semarang Police's Indonesia Automatic Fingerprint Identification System (Inafis) team was dispatched to the fire location to investigate the major cause of the incident. The police have not yet come to any conclusions about the exact cause of the incident, saying that they still need to carry out laboratory checks on all evidence taken from the scene. Eight kiosks at the Ya'ik Baru market in Semarang were engulfed by fire at around 7:30 p.m. local time on Saturday. The fire was fully extinguished at 9 p.m. The incident sparked concerns about the 423 vendors of the market. Many took their goods out of their respective kiosks due to fears that another fire might erupt. The vendors' worries are not without precedent. On May 9 and 10, 2015, a fire at the nearby Johar market caused 4,800 vendors at the historical market to lose their kiosks. The fire spread to half of the kiosks at the Ya'ik market. To avoid further losses, Ya'ik market vendors strove to rescue their goods as soon as the fire broke out on Saturday evening. Goods were stored in several locations on Jl.Haji Agus Salim and Jl.Alon-alon Selatan, on the front yard of Hotel Metro and inside the Kauman grand mosque complex. Several vendors used pick-up trucks to take their goods away. Speaking during a visit after the incident, Central Java governor Ganjar Pranowo expressed hopes that the Ya'ik market vendors could continue their economic activities. 'I hope this problem can be immediately handled so that the vendors can sell in the market again,' he said. 'The exact number of kiosks burned in the incident will be immediately recorded. The Semarang mayor [Hendrar] can handle this situation, including seeking support from banks and corporate social responsibility activities to help the vendors," he added. (ebf) Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Francisco Szekely & Victoria Kemanian (The Jakarta Post) Mon, February 29, 2016 Firms in mature markets can learn a lot from emerging market players. Leading domestic firms in emerging markets are advancing the global debate on corporate sustainability by coming up with innovative programs and initiatives that question and reinvent traditional business paradigms and models. These firms are driven by a strong belief that managing a business responsibly is the only way to create long-term sustainable growth. Despite the wide variety of sustainability approaches in emerging markets, we believe emerging market firms are pioneering a 'transformational approach' to corporate sustainability which sets them at the forefront of innovation in this field. Their innovative thinking and the solutions adopted are creating transformational business models. The high level of competence of developing market companies has begun receiving recognition in the last decade, when leading emerging market players began their internationalization. Very few businesses from emerging economies are able to dedicate time or invest resources in 'non-essential' activities. The fact that they are making sustainability a priority shows that they are sure that corporate-driven sustainable development is not an option but a necessity, even in economies with low levels of corporate wealth and income. So what is driving emerging market companies in their transformational approach? One set of drivers might be common to most firms, such as cost savings or stakeholder pressures. Others are uniquely local and depend on the specific context of the communities where firms operate. For example, take India, where power outages require an alternative form of energy, or Brazil, where farming requires far more water than is naturally available, thus triggering initiatives for better irrigation. Context is a powerful driver of the sustainability agenda of emerging market firms, but it is not the only one. Our research shows that it is the company's 'purpose' or corporate vision that drives, to a large extent, its approach and commitment to pursuing a sustainability agenda that is integrated with its corporate and business strategy. This vision acts as a lens through which companies look at their businesses, putting sustainability and responsible leadership at the center. In the examples analyzed, we observed how having a strong purpose could re-define or change a company's core business and deliver radical, long-term solutions as opposed to modest changes in business systems. What it takes to deliver transformational solutions Four interconnected enabling factors prevail in those companies with sustainability agendas that lead to transformational approaches; purpose, external context, entrepreneurial culture and ability to innovate. Purpose: Purpose-driven firms show a strong commitment to contributing to the economic and social development of their communities and countries. This is particularly evidenced in family-run businesses, where often a strong vision has been transmitted and shaped through generations of family management. Companies true to their purpose and principles create and filter business strategy and operations around these. For example, the Indian multinational Tata Group has grown around the notion of improving the quality of life of the communities it serves. It triggers long-term value creation based on 'Leadership with Trust', one of its basic business principles, convinced that 'returning to society what we earn' builds trust and leadership among stakeholders. External context: In countries where there is an urgent need to act on key social and economic issues, emerging market firms have the opportunity to inspire change by identifying solutions to ensure long-term economic and human development for all. In the case of the Indian IT leader Wipro, India, as its home market, offered a broad range of issues to address. But the company chose to focus on a central issue with a multiplier effect, where it could achieve greater impact. It deliberately works on systemic reforms in education ' linked to developing the technological capacity of the country ' as opposed to working on developing an educational infrastructure. By operating this way, it prioritizes improvements in the quality of learning. Entrepreneurial culture: Beyond the two above-mentioned factors, there needs to be an entrepreneurial mindset and culture engrained in the organization in order to engender transformational solutions. An entrepreneurial culture implies that the organization is open to new ideas, inputs and sources of supply, willing to explore new ways of looking at issues, and ready to test and apply. Ability to innovate: Sustainability leaders in emerging markets have generated innovation across a number of business areas, from processes and systems to inputs and finished products. Some of the most radical (and in many cases simplest) innovations in energy and product development have emerged in developing countries. This ability and urge to innovate derives from a combination of the external context, entrepreneurial culture and willingness to invest resources in order to tackle issues effectively. These firms have also shown a large capacity to execute with agility and roll out new models effectively. Braskem, the Brazilian petrochemical company, which started off by producing bio-plastics out of sugarcane, exemplifies both the entrepreneurial spirit and the ability to innovate. Over the years, it has created a powerful R&D capability by investing in specialized laboratories and pilot plants ' for testing and adjusting ' and by establishing partnerships with governmental innovation agencies, universities and other relevant stakeholders. Firms in mature markets can learn from these emerging market players by developing the capacity to view their businesses through sustainability lenses and by capitalizing on sustainable business opportunities for value creation. In our second article of this series on sustainability in emerging markets, we will look at the different types of strategies adopted by these players. (Francisco Szekely & Victoria Kemanian) ________________ Szekely is adjunct professor of Leadership and Sustainability at IMD, and Kemanian is director of Latitude, a Lausanne-based consulting firm. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin The Jakarta Post Mon, February 29, 2016 Your comments on the government decision to impose plastic bag fees on retailers' customers in a concerted effort to reduce plastic waste: It is a great idea. People will get into the habit of bringing their own grocery bags. They'll also learn to bag their own groceries, as is the case in most Western countries. Oh but wait, that's not a conservative idea. Lawmakers and religious leaders will fight against it! Philippe Marland The government should issue a nationwide blanket ban on plastic bags. That would solve the problem once and for all. E. Nurdin What about these plastic bags that shops like Breadtalk use ' they are the biggest crime against nature after oil spills. The minimum content of packaging needs to be raised, and single packets banned. Kulit Merah Rp 200 (4 US cents) is not enough to make people stop and think. It should be at least Rp 5,000. All this is worthless without education and infrastructure. The constant littering and dumping of rubbish in rivers and waterways is turning Indonesia's once-pristine beaches into toxic waste dumps. Anyone who litters has no respect for their country or themselves! Morganunfairchild Charge for plastic bottles too, please. Nenekkincai It's a good idea! But the implementation of this initiative must be well planned. Justrandom ____________________________________ Topic of the day Faith-based intolerance Responding to the Wahid Institute's recent survey that shows an interesting trend of violence against minority groups, the government said it faced difficulties in promoting religious tolerance. What do you think? Send your thoughts by email, SMS, Twitter or Facebook. Include your name and city. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Yuliasri Perdani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 After 21 years, Indonesians have the chance to witness a total solar eclipse. On March 9, one of the most extraordinary astronomical phenomena ' a total solar eclipse ' will appear in Indonesia's sky. In the morning, the Earth, moon and sun will perfectly align, producing a total solar eclipse across the archipelago after 21 years. An eclipse occurs quite often, but what makes it special is that it takes different path on every cycle. 'The total eclipse will appear in Indonesia in March, but next year, it will be visible in the US,' said Clara Yono Yatini, head of the National Total Eclipse Committee 2016, who is also a researcher at the National Institute of Aeronautics and Space (LAPAN). Indonesia experienced a total solar eclipse in 1988, which was visible from Bangka Belitung and South Sumatra. In 1995, the country observed another total eclipse, but it was only visible from Sangihe, a small island in North Sulawesi. On March 9, the darkest part of the moon's shadow ' called umbra ' will touch down at sunrise over Sumatra and travel eastward toward Hawaii. Anyone situated somewhere along this narrow path will experience a total eclipse. Residents of Sumatra will be the first to see the moon cover the entire surface of the sun, presenting an eerie twilight and revealing the ghostly corona ' the outer atmosphere of the sun. In Palembang, South Sumatera, the partial eclipse will be visible at 6:20 a.m (10 minutes after sunrise) and will form a total eclipse at 7:20 a.m., according to data compiled by LAPAN. The total eclipse will last 1 minute and 51 seconds. The path of totality stretches across 11 provinces. Within two hours, the umbra will move toward Bangka Belitung, Central Kalimantan, Central Sulawesi and northern part of Maluku. Residents of Luwuk in Central Sulawesi will experience the longest total eclipse, lasting two minutes and 50 seconds. In Halmahera of Maluku, the total eclipse will be visible at 9:54 a.m. for one minute and 36 seconds before heading out into the Pacific. Outside the narrow path of totality, the eclipse will be partial. Observers in Medan of North Sumatra, Java and Bali and Papua will see a crescent-shaped sun as the Moon passes by off-center. In Jakarta, the crescent will be visible from 6:19 a.m. until 8:31 a.m. 'These places will experience varied degrees of partial eclipse. For example, those in Jakarta will see an almost 90 percent eclipse, while those in Surakarta (Central Java) will only see 80 percent,' Clara said. Spectators must not look at a partial eclipse with the naked eye. The extremely bright part of the crescent can cause permanent damage to the eye. 'The observers can wear sunglasses with an ND5 solar filter, which reduces the light intensity by 100,000 times. You can take them off during the total eclipse, but don't forget to put them on again when the partial eclipse reappears,' Clara recommended. Viewers can also see the eclipse's projection using two pieces of card. Make a hole in one card and use it to project an upside-down image of the sun onto the other. A simpler way to avoid looking straight at the sun is to watch the reflection of the eclipse on water. Live streaming of the total eclipse can be accessed at www.gerhana-indonesia.id and http://media.bmkg.go.id/. Researchers from LAPAN and NASA will conduct a joint observation in Maba, Halmahera in North Maluku. 'During the total crescent, we get a chance to observe the shapes of the sun's corona,' Clara said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Bambang Muryanto (The Jakarta Post) Yogyakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 Students at Al Fatah Pesantren Waria, an Islamic boarding school for transgender students, in Yogyakarta are living in fear after the forced closure of their religious education facility following pressure from a hardline group. The students were tight-lipped when asked by journalists to comment on the situation and went straight to their rooms at an old Javanese house in Jagalan subdistrict, Banguntapan district, where they live and learn about the Koran and Islam. The school's director, Shinta Ratri, also refused to talk to journalists, saying that she had no plans for the school in the near future. 'I'm still exhausted and want to calm down,' Shinta, who is a bridal stylist, said in a text message over the weekend. 'Life must go on. I have to work.' Last Wednesday, a meeting involving local administration officials, residents, Shinta and members of the hardline Islamist group Islamic Jihad Front (FJI) Yogyakarta decided to shut down the school. The meeting, which was held at the Jagalan subdistrict hall, also agreed to forbid any religious activities at the school. Banguntapan district head Jati Bayu Broto, who was also the moderator of the meeting, said the decision had been made because the school did not have a license to operate and locals had complained about late-night karaoke and parking problems. It was also claimed that alcoholic drinks had been found at the school. Wednesday's meeting was a follow-up to FJI's visit to Al Fatah on Feb. 19. FJI reportedly visited the school to learn about the school's activities. However, when the FJI arrived at Al Fatah, the school's management had gone to a police station to report a message allegedly sent by the FJI stating that the group wanted to seal the school. Aditya Arief Hermanto of the Yogyakarta Legal Aid Foundation (LBH) said the decision to close down the school was a human rights violation. 'The right [of transgender students] to get an education has been denied,' he told The Jakarta Post on Saturday. Aditya deplored the Banguntapan Police for ignoring the school's report of intimidation by the hardline Islamic group. The FJI circulated on social media a message stating that the group intended to forcibly seal the school. 'The police rejected the report, arguing that they had no cyber unit,' Aditia said. 'For that reason, they should've used the Criminal Code as a legal basis to investigate the suspected perpetrators.' Banguntapan Police chief Comr. Suharno confirmed that his office had no cyber unit and suggested that the school report the case to the Bantul Police or the headquarters of the Yogyakarta Police. 'We will accompany them to report the case,' Suharno said. Waria is a portmanteau of the Indonesian words for woman (wanita) and man (pria) and is often used to describe transgender women. Yogyakarta's Al Fatah was originally located in the Notoyudan area before it was moved to Jagalan after the death of Maryani, the school's founder, in 2014. Maryani received local and international media attention in 2008 when she transformed her home into a place for transgender people to study Islam. After Maryani's death, the school moved to a house belonging to Shinta Ratri, a lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender (LGBT) activist. Dozens of students study together under the same roof and some of them also live there. Meanwhile, activists who supported the school also said that they were cooling down after the closure. 'We fear for the safety of the students and our volunteers,' Indonesian Family Planning Association Yogyakarta chapter director Gama Triono said. The school's supervisor, Abdul Muhaimin, said he would try to re-establish the school. Muhaimin rejected the argument that the school was unlicensed and disturbed neighboring residents. 'Why does learning Islam need a permit? If it's about the parking, we can manage it. A parking issue should not disturb their rights to get an education,' he said. Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin Prima Wirayani (The Jakarta Post) Jakarta Mon, February 29, 2016 The value of unit-linked products will likely expand at a faster pace this year although insurers have seen constant declines in the growth of new premiums over the last three years. Indonesian Life Insurance Association (AAJI) communications director Christine Setyabudhi said the association hoped to book growth in the instrument, which combines insurance and investment, by 10 to 15 percent this year. The target is lower than the 18 to 20 percent growth set for traditional insurance premiums. Unit-linked new premium expansion has demonstrated a declining trend since 2013. Data from the AAJI showed that the product's contribution to total life insurance premiums decreased from 46.84 percent in 2013 to 45.84 percent in 2014 and 45.12 percent last year. Total new premiums reached Rp 57.60 trillion (US$4.31 billion) as of September last year. 'Our survey shows that unit-linked holders prefer to buy traditional insurance products after purchasing one to two unit-links,' she said on the sidelines of a seminar on Friday. However, she said unit-linked development had been overwhelming in the past five years as its premiums dominated total insurance. In 2015, unit-linked products contributed Rp 72.34 trillion, or 56.22 percent, of the insurance industry's total premium of Rp 128.66 trillion, according to an unaudited report from the AAJI. In 2014, the instrument reaped Rp 66.53 trillion, or 55.14 percent, of premiums worth Rp 120.65 trillion. The data also showed that unit-linked premiums grew by 8.73 percent year-on-year (yoy) last year. Christine, who is also the president director and CEO of insurance company BCA Life, said several insurance companies had carried out market expanding measures to invite more people to buy unit-links. 'They have tried to open middle and lower markets by offering cheaper monthly premiums, some of them starting as low as Rp 500,000,' she said. Unit-links tapped just 1.4 percent of the country's gross domestic product (GDP) last year, up from 1.11 percent in 2014, according to AAJI data. The penetration rates were lower than those of total life insurance, which reached 3.1 percent of GDP last year. Indonesia Stock Exchange (IDX) evaluation and company monitoring unit head Poltak Hotradero said there was still enough cake for industry players given the low penetration of insurance in the public. A similar view was expressed by Financial Services Authority (OJK) non-bank financial industry monitoring head M. Ihsanudin. He said life insurance companies could benefit from the positive macro-economic situation to tap deeper into the market. 'Now, we need to increase insurance agents and the public's financial literacy so that they will share the same optimism,' he said. OJK data showed that the equity of the country's life insurance industry stood at Rp 71 trillion and its assets were worth more than Rp 330 trillion as of December last year. The value of the assets constituted 41 percent of Indonesia's total insurance business assets. Meanwhile, as much as 29 percent of the insurance industry's portfolio was dominated by stocks, 24 percent by mutual funds, 17 percent by time deposits and 16 percent by bonds. --------------------- To receive comprehensive and earlier access to The Jakarta Post print edition, please subscribe to our epaper through iOS' iTunes, Android's Google Play, Blackberry World or Microsoft's Windows Store. Subscription includes free daily editions of The Nation, The Star Malaysia, the Philippine Daily Inquirer and Asia News. For print subscription, please contact our call center at (+6221) 5360014 or subscription@thejakartapost.com Share this article Whatsapp Facebook Twitter Linkedin The Jakarta Post Jakarta Tue, March 1, 2016 Media Regulator and Regulation Observer (PR2Media) chairman Amir Effendi Siregar said a circular released by the Indonesian Broadcasting Commission (KPI) to prohibit the airing of programs showing 'feminine men' was not specific enough and over the top. Amir said regulations on the content of programs aired by electronic broadcasting media institutions had to be tighter, because they used public frequencies. However, he added that the implementation of the regulations should not go too far and had to be in line with the 2002 Broadcasting Law's framework, which aimed to guarantee the freedom of expression and the freedom of the press. 'The KPI must properly refer back to the 2002 Broadcasting Law and the Broadcasting Behavior Guideline (P3),' said Amir as quoted by kompas.com on Sunday. The researcher said regulations stipulated in the KPI circular were unclear and forced into the corner certain groups of people, who were accused for improper attitudes in society. He referred to the lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) community that has recently prompted heated public debates. 'The KPI has generalized the issue. The commission's circular should be more specific [in defining so-called feminine men]. What about art performers like Didik Nini Towok,' asked Amir, referring to a prominent dancer and choreographer, who dedicated himself to female dances. He pointed out that there were several male art performers in Indonesia who dressed and acted like women. Such performances were deeply rooted in the country's art and culture. Amir said the KPI should keep in mind that arts and culture were could not be separated from broadcasting media. "Generalizing the [LGBT] issue puts the commission at risk of losing the spirit of the 2002 Broadcasting Law, namely the freedom of expression," he said. Amir urged the KPI, together with related stakeholders, to revise broadcasting regulations. As stipulated in the 2002 Broadcasting Law, media programs must contain elements that are informative, educative and entertaining. They should also provide material on intellectual development and uphold Indonesian culture. "There must be a clearer outline of things that should not be broadcast to the public," he continued. Meanwhile, Dhyta Caturani from the human rights organization One Billion Rising (OBR) said regulations delivered in the KPI's circular were blatant discrimination against LGBT people who had recently been subject to heavy public pressure, including from government officials and religious figures. "It's ironic that the KPI, as a government institution, clearly discriminated against a group that is categorized as a minority," Dhyta said. The activist admitted that airing programs showing effeminate men was not educative. However, she said the KPI would be in a better position if it prohibited the airing of TV programs showing feminine men as a move to respond the use of transgender people as a laughingstock for the public. Dhyta said there was injustice in the KPI's move to use the LGBT community as the basis of its regulations. She said LGBT people should not be viewed as a threat to society. She said regulations in the KPI's circular were meant to protect young children from following what they saw on television, but at the same time, they gave others an opportunity to express hatred toward the LGBT community. (liz/ebf) Nicht Ihr Computer? Dann konnen Sie fur die Anmeldung ein Fenster zum privaten Surfen offnen. Weitere Informationen The former Rivington House nursing facility has been sold for $116 million to a group that plans to create luxury housing in the longtime community space. According to the Wall Street Journal, China Vanke Co., Slate Property Group and Adam America Real Estate made a deal for the 118-year-old former school building at 41 Rivington St. (also known as 45 Rivington). As we have reported in recent months, the sale was anticipated after the Allure Group, a private nursing home operator, closed the building in December. The company, which purchased the property last year for $28 million, has stated that the failure to obtain state Medicaid reimbursements forced the closure. The Allure Group also paid the city $16 million for the deed, which had previously restricted the buildings use to a Not-for-Profit Residential Health Care Facility. Community Board 3 and City Council member Margaret Chin supported efforts to lift the deed restriction because they thought it meant the 200-plus-bed nursing facility could continue to operate as a for-profit entity. They were furious with the de Blasio Administration for allowing the building to slip into the hands of luxury housing developers. Slate co-founder Martin Nussbaum told the Journal that the partnership plans to create about 100 luxury apartments in the building, which borders Sara D. Roosevelt Park. The newspaper reported that the venture hasnt decided how much to charge for units but the pricing wont be at the high end or the low end of the market. Representatives from Council member Chins office and the office of Manhattan Borough President Gale Brewer have been trying to find out why the city lifted the deed restrictions without any guarantees that the property would remain a community asset. They have told members of Community Board 3 that the initial answers have been unsatisfying. Allure Group executives have asserted, in conversations with CB3 staff members, that theyll open a new nursing home facility on the Lower East Side. It remains to be seen whether that will actually happen. Rivington House was a nursing home for AIDS patients until it was sold last year by VillageCare, which said demand for its services had fallen dramatically. The building conversion from a school, in 1992, was financed by millions of dollars in state bonds. Heres an edited version of the Rivington House resolution approved by the community board last month: One afternoon in 2004, I visited New Yorks Museum of Television and Radio. These were the pre-YouTube days when a TV episode or commercial would, for the most part, vanish after it aired. But in addition to its regular exhibits, the museum housed a unique resource: a library of old shows and clips that could be ordered up and watched at a headphone-equipped viewing station. Intrigued by the chance to see a once-televised relic Im not sure why, but I wound up watching a stunningly racist early-60s Jell-O ad I approached the librarys reference desk. Upon seeing me, the clerks face inexplicably lit up but as I got closer, his features dropped, and the sudden shift was so obvious that he felt compelled to explain himself. Im so sorry, he said. I thought you were Neil Patrick Harris. He then told me, through his embarrassment, that Harris had recently frequented the museum to study footage for a part in a Broadway musical. I responded with a shrug and told him not to worry: it happened all the time. I wasnt just saying that. Through some genetic coincidence, I look like the long-lost twin of Neil Patrick Harris. The likeness is so true that I cant bother to deny it: we have the same short jawline, the same thin-lipped grin, the same skeptical eyes. Im not sure exactly when the comparisons began, but as a middle-schooler, I occasionally had the feeling that Doogie Howser the teen-doctor TV character that made Harris famous in 1989 was a vestigial part of me, as if Vinnie Delpino had climbed through my bedroom window to chat the night before. On a beach trip in eighth or ninth grade, trolling an amusement park for girls, my friends and I got into an altercation with some local kids, causing one to sneer, Whatre you gonna write about in your journal tonight, Doogie? That I met a bunch of assholes at Fantasy Island, I replied, not missing a beat, as if I were already composing the entry. Somehow I made it back to my friends rental house with all my teeth intact. In the years after Doogie Howser, M.D. was cancelled in 1993, I enjoyed a relative respite from comparisons to Harris, but I rarely went a couple of months without being asked, Has anyone ever told you you look like In my freshman dorm at college, one friend a bald-shaven, good-natured Staten Island hulk would only call me Doog, as though I gave him no other choice. For my first-ever email address, I chose the username DHowser, and with the help of a lab coat, stethoscope, and a pair of white high-tops, I was Doogie for Halloween. Surrender, not escape, had become my only option. Then, much to my horror, Harris returned to the public eye: a self-lampooning cameo in Harold and Kumar Go to White Castle, a role as Lee Harvey Oswald helped by his studies at the Museum of Television and Radio the in the Broadway hit Assassins, the cult Internet oddity Dr. Horribles Sing-Along Blog. Just as I was finally staggering from the blast zone of his early fame, he was becoming more ubiquitous than ever. His awards-show hosting gigs and role on CBSs How I Met Your Mother seemed like faits accomplis. When I watched him as Barney Stinson, How I Met Your Mothers cheerful lout, my surrender became total. The motherfucker looked more like me than he had when we were young. I was growing into him, as if we were a pair of trees rooted too close together. Its strange to sometimes feel that you arent quite you that, because of the way your face has come together, youre partially someone else. When I meet someone who thinks I look like Harris, he or she will gaze at me with uncommon interest: for a second or two, their faces go blank, a smile at the edge of their lips; Ive tricked them into thinking theyre meeting a celebrity. When they go on to tell me, as if uncovering a marvelous secret, that I look like Neil Patrick Harris, they dont seem to realize that theyre rendering me less me. I never thought that I might actually meet my doppelganger; the simple fact of our looks was coincidence enough. But in December came word that Neil Patrick Harris Doogie, Barney, Dr. Horrible was planning to visit the offices of the magazine I work at. In the days leading up to his visit, I wasnt nervous, exactly, but I continually pictured our meeting. Wed size each other up, shake handsand then what? Would I tell him the museum story? The one about the shithead at the beach? What do you say to your celebrity alter ego? I was busy when he arrived, and before I could get to him, someone had told him that I was the resident Neil Patrick Harris lookalike. When I entered my bosss office, Harris was sitting on the couch, looking very much like himself, very much like me. As we shook hands, he laughed and remarked on my incredible handsomeness. No kidding, I said. Youre pretty damn good-looking yourself. He sat and chatted with the staff for a while, and he was everything Id hoped he might be: gracious, genial, totally bullshit-free. I kept sneaking glances at him not because he was a TV star, a former Oscar host with a bestselling autobiography but because, like everyone whod ever told me I looked like him, I was a little bit confused. I was here, leaning against a file drawer, but I was also over there, on the couch. After an amiable hour or so, Harris stood and posed for photos, gave another round of handshakes, and left. In the days afterward, my coworkers and friends asked me what it had been like to finally meet him what the completion of my 25-year journey, as I jokingly described it to him, had been like. And beyond pronouncing it cool, I didnt have much to say. Meeting him hadnt made me realize some profound inner truth or confer long-awaited wisdom about my identity. He was just a guy who happens to look like me. More than anything, our meeting simply reinforced the fact that the world can be a baffling and random place. Often, this randomness results in tragedy or farce. And at other times, it brings together two total strangers with similar faces one of whom cant outrun the others long, enduring, Doogie Howser-shaped shadow. Back in 2011, Ruth Davidson defied the odds and won a seat on the Glasgow regional list. A Scottish Conservative. In Glasgow. Who would have thought? The party won a mere 15 seats at Holyrood but claimed victory where it mattered. They remained on top in the Scottish Borders (mopping up easy Lib Dem prey) and held on to most of their constituency seats. The party won a mere 15 seats at Holyrood but claimed victory where it mattered. They remained on top in the Scottish Borders (mopping up easy Lib Dem prey) and held on to most of their constituency seats. But 15 seats still meant that the Scottish Conservatives were lagging behind the SNP and Labour and still were as toxic as ever. Roll on 5 years and talk is rife that Ms Davidson will be Leader of the Opposition come May. But why? The answer: Scottish Labour. Since the wipeout of Scottish Labour last May, the humiliating resignation of Jim Murphy (who lost his seat in the bloodbath), and the promotion of lame duck Kezia Dugdale to leader, the Tories have rightly been baying for second place. The fact remains that many Labour voters are, indeed, moderate. They dont subscribe to the SNP delusions, but nor do they care much for Kezias stale offering either. Ruth Davidson has been careful to distance herself from David Camerons unionist musings; she regularly sets her own position on many issues that go against the mainstream conservative agenda. Her stance on tuition fees, prescription charges and tax credits, have been well received by the public in many polls, as well as academics and media pundits. Ruth is out-going, funny and easy to get along with. She enjoys meeting people, taking selfies and is a favourite on Twitter. Her campaign against the SNP on farming payments and the useless IT system that goes with it has awarded her with a bounce in support in the Borders and Highlands. The party is maintaining a 17% polling average, reaching to 40% in the borders enough to grab them more constituency seats as well as holding the ones they currently have. As for Scottish Labour, their only hope for salvation is on the regional lists. They are on course to lose every single constituency seat they held in 2011. Kezia Dugdale unlikeable & timid is ensuring the final nail is hammered into the red coffin in May. Whilst the party self-destructs, Ruth Davidson is enjoying a boost in support. It is crucial that she keeps the unionist flag waving as it will always have a place in Scotland for as long as she is leader. Unfortunately, The Content Is Not Here You have arrived at this page because the page or post you were looking for no longer exists. Please check our main navigation pages for other content: Home Page American expat found dead at Rawai home PHUKET: Police have yet to confirm the cause of death of a 60-year-old American expat whose body was found in his home in Rawai today (Feb 29). death By Darawan Naknakhon Monday 29 February 2016, 07:38PM Chalong Police Capt Wuttiwat Liangboonjinda was called to the home, in Soi Aree, at 2pm, by the mans maid. Police arrived with rescue workers to find the body of the man*, dressed only in a bathrobe and socks, on the sofa. The TV in the room was still on, said Capt Wuttiwat. The body was discoloured with dark blue and purple as if he suffered some form of blood clot. We believe he had been dead for about two days before his body was discovered by the housekeeper. We found no sign of assault on the body and no sign of robbery in the house, he added. The housekeeper, who police declined to name, told officers that she last spoke to the man at 7pm on Friday (Feb 26), Capt Wuttiwat said. She said she spoke to him on the phone and arranged from the next cleaning service, he explained. But when she came to clean the house at 1:30pm (today), she found him lifeless on the sofa. She said that the man had lived in the house alone for almost 10 years. He constantly complained of having chest pain, but never visited a doctor. She said that he often bought over counter medication from pharmacies to take, and he drank almost every day, Capt Wuttiwat said. The mans body was taken to Vachira Hospital for doctors to determine the cause of death, while police contacting the US Embassy in Bangkok, he added. * The Phuket News has been given the mans name, but is withholding it from publication until the mans family has been notified of his death. Five sailors arrested over island rape TRAT: Five Cambodian fishing crew members were arrested in connection with the rape and assault of French tourists on Saturday night (Feb 27) on the resort island of Koh Kut, police said. sexviolencepolice By Bangkok Post Monday 29 February 2016, 10:14AM The three Cambodians arrested and charged with the rape and assault of four French tourists were captured in a mountainous area of Koh Kut by a combined force of marines, police district officials and villagers. (Photo courtesy of Koh Kut marines task force unit) The five, whose boat was anchored off the island, are accused of raping two French tourists and attacking another two male tourists who tried to help the women, according to police. The suspects are thought to have swam 300 metres from their boat to the shore, police said. Police yesterday night (Feb 28) arrested two of the suspects as they attempted to cross back to Cambodia through the Hat Lek border pass after officials noticed their appearance matched a description provided by the victims. The two men were escorted to Koh Kut police station. They were identified as Thi, 20, and Bot Man, 20. Three other Cambodian fishing crew were arrested at the crime scene earlier yesterday. They were identified as Yim, 25, Pai, 22, and Jern, 25. The attack took place about 1km from a resort where the four tourists were staying, police said. According to an initial investigation, the four tourists were walking along a street on their way to dinner when they came across two suspects who tried to talk to them. As the tourists were about to leave, another three men emerged from bushes nearby and grabbed the women. The male tourists, identified as Thomas Buiron, 30, and Edbri Ronain Rene, 29, tried to fight off the attackers but were overpowered. Mr Buiron said he and Mr Rene were attacked with knives and sticks before they managed to escape and run back to their resort. He said the other man was badly injured. The women, one aged 57 and the other 28, were raped and severely assaulted before a car passed by, prompting the attackers to flee, police said. A joint team of police and navy officers as well as about 50 locals sealed off the area around the scene to hunt for the attackers. Three of the suspects were found on the island and arrested around 5am Sunday, while the other two managed to get away, before being arrested at the border later. Pol Lt Col Suraporn Thepsen, Koh Krut deputy police chief, said the two suspects arrested at the border are believed to have travelled to Trats Khlong Yai district from Koh Kut on board their fishing boat. All five suspects are Cambodian nationals working on the Chok Kamolwan fishing boat, Trat police chief Pol Maj Gen Nopparat Rintapol said. The suspects, who had been drinking, put on lifejackets and swam to the shore to buy more alcohol before the attack, the officer said. Police said the three tourists who are severely injured were sent to hospital in Trats Muang district after receiving initial emergency care on Koh Kut. A team of investigators has been sent to question the skipper and crew members of the fishing trawler, which is now docked at a pier in Trats Laem Ngop district. National police chief Pol Gen Chakthip Chaijinda will travel to Koh Kut today (Feb 29) to question the five suspects himself. Doctors at the hospital will provide an update on the condition of the three tourists later today. Read original story here. Iranian man dies of heart attack whilst holidaying in Phuket PHUKET: An Iranian man died who was taken to hospital by family members yesterday (Feb 28) when he complained of severe chest pains, died whist in the hospitals care it has been announced. Doctors have confirmed the man died after suffering a heart attack. deathhealthpatong By Darawan Naknakhon Monday 29 February 2016, 02:17PM Mr Mahmoud and his family checked into the Andaman Beach Suites on Rat Uthit 200 Pi Rd in Patong on Thursday (Feb 25). Kathu Police were called by staff by at Patong Hospital at midday yesterday and advised that a foreign man had died in the emergency room. Maj Pattapee Srichai arrived at the hospital and was led to the body of 78-year-old Mahmoud Khoshbakht from Iran. Maj Pattapee said that on Thursday (Feb 25), Mr Mahmoud and his family checked into the Andaman Beach Suites on Rat Uthit 200 Pi Rd in Patong. They were due to check out on March 6. We were told that at around 10:30am on Sunday Mr Mahmoud complained of chest pains, nausea and breathing difficulties so his family notified the hotel who called for the hospital for assistance. He was taken to Patong Hospital where doctors and nurses attempted to revive him but failed. Doctors have confirmed that Mr Mahmoud died of a heart attack, said Maj Pattapee. Phuket police turn to CCTV as leads dry up in hunt for bank robber PHUKET: Police are still hunting for the man who robbed a Krungthai Bank on Sakdidet Rd at gunpoint last Friday (Feb 26), with their attention now focused on checking CCTV footage in the hope of gleaning some clues to his identity and whereabouts. crimepolice By The Phuket News Monday 29 February 2016, 07:56PM The robber was last seen heading down Soi Suwanna, near the bank. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Witnesses have been unable to recount any details that police have found useful in catching the robber. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Police are scouring through hours of CCTV in the hope of finding some clues about the robber. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Police are scouring through hours of CCTV in the hope of finding some clues about the robber. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Police are scouring through hours of CCTV in the hope of finding some clues about the robber. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Police are scouring through hours of CCTV in the hope of finding some clues about the robber. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub The robber was last seen speeding down a sidestreet near the bank on his red Honda Wave motorbike, making off with a reported B470,000. (See story here.) Wichit Police Chief Col Kittipong Klaikaew told The Phuket News today (Feb 29) that officers were looking through gigabytes of CCTV footage gathered from various locations in the area. It is unfortunate, the CCTV footage we have does not show the license plate of the robbers motorbike and residents and staff in the bank at the time of the incident did not recognise the robbers voice, Col Kittipong said. The robber was covered from head to toe and was last seen on the motorbike in Soi Suwanna, he added. There is a lot of CCTV footage we have to go through, but so far we have found nothing that matches the description of the robber. But well keep looking. Hopefully, we will find something that will lead us to the robber soon, Col Kittipong said. Phuket Poll: Should Phuket ban RVs? PHUKET: News last week that officials have yet to come to grips with an influx of Chinese travellers arriving on the island in recreational vehicles (RVs) has sparked in tense online debate about whether or not Phuket should welcome such travellers. tourismChinese By The Phuket News Monday 29 February 2016, 05:54PM Should Phuket ban recreational vehicles (RVs) entirely? Photo: PR Dept Officials noted that the vehicles, which are technically illegal in Thailand until they are approved by the Land Transport Department, are being brought into the country through a customs loophole. Other concerns highlighted by officials ranged from RV travellers parking up illegally, dumping waste and travelling on the cheap by avoiding hotel stays and shopping at 7-Eleven stores. (See story here.) To this, The Phuket News asks its readers, Should Phuket ban RVs? Responses available are: Ban RVs entirely from Phuket Allow RVs on Phuket, but regulate where they can go, tax them and make them stay in RV parks Allow RVs to roam free across the island like any other private vehicle To cast your vote, click here. The poll will continue until March 14. Two foreigners injured in early morning head-on collision with Phuket taxi PHUKET: Two foreigners were hospitalised in the early hours of this morning (Feb 29) when they crashed their vehicle into a taxi in Thepkassattri. accidentstransportpolice By Eakkapop Thongtub Monday 29 February 2016, 12:08PM Police said that all the people involved were drunk and could not communicate. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Police said that all the people involved were drunk and could not communicate. Photo: Eakkapop Thongtub Capt Natthaya Supanpong from Thalang Police received a call from local residents at 1am stating that two foreigners were injured in a crash on the Baan Don-Thalang Rd in Thepkassatttri. A passenger was still trapped in the vehicle. Residents were worried that because the accident happened on a dark bend, others vehicles might not see the wreckage and further accidents could follow as a result. Police arrived with Kusoldharm rescue workers where they found a wrecked red Toyota Yaris in the middle of the road. A British woman was attending to an injured foreign man at the side of the road. A female passenger, who had suffered injuries to her left leg, was trapped in the back seat of the vehicle. A badly damaged Toyota meter taxi was also stopped in the road nearby. Capt Natthaya siad, All the people were drunk and could not communicate with us very well. The injured man refused to let us help and told us to go away. It took us more than 15 minutes to finally take all of them to Thalang Hospital. The taxi,driver, Chainarong Pethdam, 46, told police that he had just picked up three tourists from the airport and was heading to Patong when the red Yaris, which was driving on the wrong side of the road, lost control, spun and slammed into his vehicle. Both vehicles were taken to Thalang Police Station while police are currently waiting to question driver and his passengers. Gov. Noem will host veterans fundraiser instead of going to SDPB debate While Rep. Jamie Smith and Libertarian Tracey Quint will be attending the South Dakota Public Broadcasting gubernatorial debate, Gov. Kristi Noem will be hosting a fundraiser for veterans. Three weeks from now Bombardier will be spinning its good news story to the analysts community. No, not that Bombardier, the one with the troubled C Series aircraft, which appears to suffer bad news as a daily occurrence, Fridays being the filing for bankruptcy protection by client Republic Airways. But the other Bombardier as in Bombardier Recreational Products Inc., the company formally known as BRP. Readers may forget that the mass transit version of the company (undelivered streetcars and planes seeking government bailout) is a relatively new creation. Following a first entry into rail in the mid-Seventies, the company pushed into aerospace in 1986. The Ski-Doo roots of the historic Quebec firm Joseph-Armand Bombardiers lAuto-Neige Bombardier Limitee were sold off more than a decade ago. The story arc of the two companies should cause taxpayers to wonder: why should the federal government pony up $1 billion to help rescue aerospace while the Bombardier/Beaudoin clan enjoys Ski-Doo profits? I am being simplistic. But its worth reviewing, I think, that the Bombardier and Beaudoin families, the privately-held Beaudier Group, were part of the investor collective, along with Bain Capital and the Caisse de depot, that took the recreational products division private in 2003. Roadsters, personal watercraft, snowmobiles, Sea-Doos, parts and accessories. An editor once cautioned me never to use the word astonished in a story. We are never astonished, he said dryly. But, really, its quite astonishing to see the scope of BRP today. Lynx snowmobiles and Evinrude E-Tec outboard motors. Side-by-side all terrain vehicles that look like a whole heckuva lot of fun, with names like Maverick Max X DS Turbo. As the company likes to say, Nothing is more valuable than your playtime. This extends to Baby Boomers with motorcycle dreams but lacking in gumption. Behold the three-wheeled Spyders. Cycle World wondered: Is this creation something that only mother Bombardier Recreational Products (BRP) can love, or is it a strangely desirable missing link between an automobiles effortless stability and a motorcycles un-caged freedom? The magazine concluded that the Spyder was fun. The L. A. Times dubbed it the Batmobike. BRP has a workforce pushing 7,000. Manufacturing operations in Mexico, Austria, Finland and the U.S., as well as here at home. A few numbers: For the nine months ended last Oct. 31, the company posted a net income of $80 million on sales of $2.7 billion. Consider the growth curve: full year profits in fiscal 2015 were $70 million. The year before that: $60 million. Profits, profits, profits. The group of investors that took the company private in 2003, took it public in the spring of 2013. Six months later, as Bain sold down part of its position, Beaudier Inc. was left with voting control, through multiple voting shares, of 43.9 per cent. Laurent Beaudoin, son-in-law of Joseph-Armand Bombardier, is chair of the board. J. R. Andre Bombardier is vice-chair. Full credit for getting the company to where it is today. The global financial crisis meant a meltdown too for BRP. The company laid off close to 1,000 workers in December, 2008, most of them at the companys base operations in Valcourt, Que. Its initial public offering was stalled for a time. In December, the company announced that coincident with increased investment in Valcourt it was instituting a pay freeze at operations there, commencing this month. The analysts community is exhibiting a shared love of BRP, with multiple buy recommendations for its $16 stock. I was astonished, truly, to realize that in stark contrast Bombardier trades at a buck. The monies already thrown at Bombardier have been well documented: the $1 billion (U.S.) from the Quebec government; the $1.5 billion from the Caisse. Now the company has gone cap in hand to the federal government. Luckily for the Bombardier and Beaudoin clans, they can claim success elsewhere. Too bad taxpayers dont share in that. jenwells@thestar.ca Read more about: SHARE: The Ontario Human Rights Commission is calling for an end to the use of solitary confinement in provincial jails. Chief Commissioner Renu Mandhane has asked the province to commit publicly to ending the practice and immediately restrict its use. We believe that it has a discriminatory and disproportionate impact on code-protected groups namely, racialized individuals, people with mental health issues and women, said Mandhane, who joined the commission in November. Mandhane, an expert in international human rights law, said solitary confinement is often used to manage offenders with mental health disabilities, and the practice must stop. Because segregation is an option, it has not put pressure on the prison structure to create other forms of dealing with the complex needs of some of the prisoners in the population, she said. The recommendations, which the Star obtained ahead of their Monday release, came out of a request from the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services for the commissions participation in a sweeping review of segregation practices across the province announced by Minister Yasir Naqvi last March. The ministry has not responded directly to the commissions call to end solitary confinement. Naqvi was not available for an interview due to the recent birth of his second child. His spokeswoman, Lauren Callighen, said the ministry will continue to work with the commission as it updates policies and continues efforts to transform the correctional system. We know that segregation can be emotionally and mentally distressing and individuals who suffer from mental illness are particularly vulnerable, Callighen said in a statement. Our goal is that segregation will only be used as a last resort, when all other options have been exhausted. The segregation review, which Callighen said the ministry hopes to complete by the end of the year, will evaluate policies, practices and procedures, identify areas for change, and examine best practices in other jurisdictions. The ministry has faced growing criticism over solitary confinement in Ontario jails, which comes amid mounting national and global concern about the mental health consequences of isolation. The review came after a string of Star stories that documented alleged human rights violations in provincial jails. A United Nations special investigator has said solitary confinement should be used only in exceptional circumstances and never for people with mental disabilities or for more than 15 consecutive days, or it could amount to torture. Howard Sapers, Canadas federal prison watchdog, has pushed for it to be banned for inmates with the diagnosis of a serious mental illness or a history of self-injury, and his office has called solitary confinement the most austere and depriving form of incarceration that the state can legally administer in Canada. Mandhane said the commissions position an end to the practice in Ontario is intentionally strong because removing segregation as an option would force the province to change the way jails operate. What we hope would happen is that youd see more resources put into prisons to deal with people who have mental health issues, so that youre actually treating the underlying cause, rather than just locking them up and throwing away the key, she said. We need a culture shift in terms of how we deal with racialized groups, indigenous women and prisoners with mental health issues. And for too long we have used what I think is the most punitive thing we can do in our entire correctional system . . . to deal with these disadvantaged groups. Mandhane said the commission isnt naive enough to think an end to solitary can happen overnight, but said the ministry could minimize the impact of segregation by immediately implementing its recommendations. The recommendations include: Adjust staffing models, hiring and training to ensure staff with appropriate attitudes and behavioural skills are working with vulnerable prisoner populations. Continue to implement a landmark 2013 human rights settlement, which banned the use of segregation for prisoners with mental health disabilities. Make segregation placement decisions and health-care assessments subject to external and independent review and oversight. Ensure all prisoners and their legal representatives are given relevant information about and a genuine opportunity to challenge placement in segregation. Collect and analyze race-based and human rights-based data on the use of segregation, but more broadly on the progression of prisoners through the correctional system. SHARE: Even if you were born long after her husband, former U.S. president John F. Kennedy, was assassinated, you would likely know about Jackie Kennedy Onassis, the American doyenne of style from the 1960s until her death in 1994. On Nov. 22, 1963, Jackie was sitting beside her husband in a car in Dallas when an assassin shot JFK through the head. She cradled his body in her lap as their car raced to the hospital. The event was hauntingly captured by Abraham Zapruder, who was taking a home movie of the Kennedy motorcade. The Kennedy family was beset by tragedies, including the 1968 shooting of Robert, Johns brother, with whom Jackie was very close. Biographer Barbara Leaming suggests Jackie suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Our conversation about her book, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis: The Untold Story, has been edited for length. The diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder is fascinating. The psychology of that mental disorder wasnt recognized much during Jackies lifetime. A lot of us saw the Zapruder film of the assassination on television and weve seen it repeated many times. It is a traumatic event we all witnessed. Thats one of the reasons I was so interested in the story. It is a unique view of what trauma was all about. But there was no diagnosis of PTSD until 1980. It made the situation much worse for Jackie because no one really understood what she was going through. In 1964, right after the assassination, Jackie was getting all kinds of condolence letters. I read a letter from the former British prime minister Harold Macmillan. It was the strangest condolence letter I had ever read. He had been wounded in the First World War and he talked about that and talked about God, and I wondered, why is he writing like this to her? Then I picked up her first response to this letter. I started to read their correspondence again and Jackie would tell him that no letter was more important to her than his letter. You have saved my life, she wrote. I didnt understand what was going at first on at first but the linking of her experience to a soldier in war became fascinating. After reading her letters and literature on PTSD, I realized Jackie had all the symptoms of that trauma. It all came out of that Macmillan letter. For a biographer, there are always those chance things and you cant get them out of your mind. Its been the most emotional experience I have ever had as a writer. We learned, long after his death, that JFK was a serial philanderer, making Bill Clinton almost look like an amateur. But Jackie knew and stood by her man. She married JFK for love and adored him until the very end. She fell in love with the man Jack Kennedy wanted to be. Jack Kennedy was very complicated. Part of him wanted to be the charming character. Part of him was the philanderer. For JFK, Jackie was a political asset. The other complication is that she knew he didnt love her until the very day of his assassination, and that is the horror of the story. If you know anything about Jackie you know she dazzled everyone. But Jack was afraid until that trip to Texas that she might not play well on the campaign trail for his re-election. Was she too dressed up? Would she seem too sophisticated? Does her whispery voice annoy people? In Texas that day, Nov. 22, he told her he wanted her to campaign with him and at that moment she felt as if it was the beginning of their life together. Then, the rug was pulled out from under her. The assassination created an experience of complete helplessness. Her relationship with Bobby Kennedy, JFKs brother, was fascinating. Bobby was an enormously empathetic character and he was grief-stricken about his brother, but what he experienced was different. Jackie was in the car and that bullet could have hit her. Bobby tried to help her later but at a certain point he began to refer to her as my crazy sister-in-law and hed tell her to stop living in the past and to get over it. He became impatient. There was another big complication in that relationship. She was very valuable as a political tool to Bobby. She was what remained of Jack Kennedy and his legacy. Your book does help us understand Jackies behaviour, understand the horror of PTSD. None of us thought about it at the time or after. We didnt know about PTSD. It is a horrendous thing that takes over your whole life. But she survived and that is an extraordinary thing. In 1980, the year PTSD was first diagnosed, she was at a dinner party and a man asked her what she thought was her greatest accomplishment. One would expect she would talk about her life in the White House or her job in publishing. But she looked at him and said her greatest achievement was that she had kept her sanity. She knew she had survived impossible odds. Her story does help us understand PTSD for several reasons. She was very well educated and did have the language to describe what it is to feel numb, what it is to have a traumatic flashback, what it is to have survivors guilt. There are so many instances of trauma: rapes, shootings, mass murders. Through her story we can understand why society has such difficulty dealing with trauma and healing the victims of trauma and why we get tired of listening to their stories. I came out of the writing of this book with overwhelming admiration for her strength. I cant imagine how she lived through this. We understood her differently during her lifetime. We heard so much about her and thought we knew her. But once you look at the pieces of her life you understand it was different from what we imagined at the time. For history this is an important story. Hundreds of thousands of veterans are coming back to the U.S. from Afghanistan and Iraq with PTSD. We dont really understand what PTSD is. At the most it is an abstraction for most people and a list of symptoms. What is important about Jackies story is that we can see and detail what it is like for someone to suffer with PTSD. She puts a face to a disorder that is a national trauma. Because Jackie suffered from it for 31 years, we have the capacity to look at this up close over a very long time. Through her letters and conversations with people, she was able to make them feel what was happening to her in a way that was quite extraordinary. This was someone whose husbands head was blown apart inches from her and she was bathed in his brains and blood. That kind of trauma is very close to what you hear described by war veterans. It is historically an important story and timely. Writing this book was emotionally devastating. There were days in my office where I just sat thinking: couldnt anyone do anything for her? PTSD is something we cant ignore and Jackies case can help us understand what it is to suffer from this. SHARE: It is the people of Ukraine who should be blamed, or credited, depending on the point of view, for what happened. Serhii Plokhy War and peace. The tangled and bloody history of Ukraine and Russia is longer than Leo Tolstoys masterpiece and theres no final chapter. Few historians know more about the distant and modern origins of the current war, and prospects for peace, than award-winning author and Harvard professor Serhii Plokhy. His new book, The Gates of Europe, deconstructs more than 2,000 years of history and how it came to this. In ancient and modern times would you say that the battle for Ukraine and Russia has been for identity as well as territory? First there were claims of territory. But Russia believes that Kyiv is where Russian Christianity and statehood started. That is what (President Vladimir) Putin said after the annexation of Crimea. In terms of identity, everything is focused on (the eastern Slavic state of) Kyivan Rus. To illustrate how serious this is, the skull of Yaroslav the Wise, one of Kyivs leading princes, disappeared from St. Sophia Cathedral in 1943-44. The idea was that he was (part of) the beginning of Ukrainian history, and the clergy didnt want the skull to be left to invading Soviet troops. Ukraine and Russia evolved after many invasions from east and west. Are they still struggling with where their interests lie? Putin embraced the idea of a Eurasian union. Like the old Soviet Union, this one is incomplete without Ukraine. Its the second-largest country in terms of population and territory. The foundation of the current crisis is that Putin was trying to build an economic, political and military bloc around the Eurasian union that would compete with the European Union to the west and China to the east. Ukraine clearly isnt interested in the Eurasian project. It has found itself between Eurasia and the EU. Thats where the metaphor The Gates of Europe comes from. That is something in contemporary politics that works well with the history of Ukraine for a millennium and a half. It is at the crossroads of east and west. But Russia sees it as little Russia, dating back to Peter the Great. The key was the Battle of Poltava in 1709, when Peter emerged as a victor. He defeated Charles XII of Sweden, who was considered invincible. It was good for Russia as a European power, but a total disaster for the Cossack Hetmanate (which united Ukraine under Ivan Mazepa, who sided with Sweden.) What followed was the decline of the hetmanate and incorporation into the Russian empire in economic, political and cultural terms. After the Russian empire, Ukraine had to contend with a takeover by the Red Army and the Soviet Union. Did that kill Ukrainian nationalism? A number of Ukrainian governments declared independence, starting in January 1918. They lost the war. But the Bolsheviks realized that they had to offer something to Ukraine in terms of cultural policies. One feature was the formal recognition of the Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic. They also gave it the right to leave the union which caught up with them in 1991 (when Ukraine declared independence.) In the early 1930s the catastrophic Stalin-imposed famine known as the Holodomor killed millions of Ukrainians. Does it play a role today? At Harvard we have a digital atlas of Ukraine and we compare areas most affected by the Holodomor with the commemoration of its victims. Before now there was coexistence of monuments to Lenin and monuments to victims of the Holodomor in villages or small towns. Now we see that the areas where monuments to Lenin were demolished are those most affected by the famine, which hit central Ukraine hardest. Its a very important element of the Maidan Revolution. We talk about Europe, about Russia and about corruption. But it also came about because of an attempt to get away from the Soviet past. When Russia annexed Crimea, Putin called its transfer from Russia to Ukraine in 1954 a historic mistake. Is there some truth to that? The reason for the transfer wasnt ethnic politics but geography. Its a peninsula not an island, and the mainland was Ukraine. In the mind of (Soviet leader Nikita) Khrushchev it made sense to have Crimea and Ukraine as one economic bloc. Water, electricity and transport come from Ukraine. Now, with all the conflict over Crimea and eastern Ukraine there is a big problem with electricity. One third of the Dnieper (river) water is going to Crimea for irrigation. For Khrushchev, moving Crimea to Ukraine was a way to solve the economic problem. Without geographical links it was a logistical nightmare for Russia. Russia and its supporters say that Putin only got involved in Ukraine because of a U.S. and European plot to expand NATO, exploit Ukraines resources and absorb it into Europe. Nobody in the world capitals, including in the U.S. wanted any trouble in dealings with Moscow. It is the people of Ukraine who should be blamed, or credited, depending on the point of view, for what had happened. First they wanted an EU agreement and then refused to accept the (former president Viktor Yanukovych) governments violence as a legitimate way of conducting a dialogue with society. Moscow decided to use the crises for a land grab. The West was put on the spot and had to react. It finally started to do something only after MH17 (the Malaysian airliner that was shot down in July 2014.) With all the weight of history, and the current conflict over the separatist rebellion in eastern Ukraine, is there any chance of peace? In this economic and political climate I dont see Russia trying to escalate the conflict and grab more territory. But I dont see any solution in eastern Ukraine along the lines drawn by the (2015) Minsk agreement. Minsk suggests that it should be reintegrated into Ukraine, but elections should take place before Russian troops leave the area and before Ukraine reclaims control of the border. That would mean it would be an enclave in Ukraine, having a say over what Ukraine does, but controlled by Russia. I dont see Minsk succeeding. Probably a frozen conflict scenario is the likeliest for the Donbas. But prediction is always difficult and its a thankless task to try. The Gates of Europe, by Serhii Plokhy; 432 pages; Basic Books; $37.50 Read more about: SHARE: Im not here to defend the indefensible, Cardinal George Pell told an Australian courtroom Monday. What he did was attempt to explain: how one of the most notorious pedophilia rings in the country could have taken place on his watch, how he could have heard about priests who engaged in misbehaviour kissing boys, swimming naked with students and not reported it, how thousands of children were raped and molested by priests in Australia and elsewhere while the church did nothing. The church has made enormous mistakes and is working to remedy those, he said via video conference from Rome. But the church in many places, certainly Australia, has mucked things up ... has let people down. The investigation into the widespread sexual abuse of children in the city of Ballarat, where Pell was a priest, has brought allegations of exploitation and coverup extraordinarily far up the Catholic Churchs chain of command; Pell is the churchs Secretariat for the Economy, a position described as the second most powerful in Rome, and he spoke from a hotel that was just blocks from the Vatican. The hearings before Australias Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse also come at a time when the Catholic Churchs handling of child abuse is more generally under scrutiny. The film Spotlight, which depicts the Boston Globes Pulitzer Prize-winning investigation into serially abusive priests, won the Oscar for Best Picture just hours after Pell concluded his testimony. But in the courtroom in Sydney, and the hotel room in Rome, and in Ballarat where dozens of children were abused years ago, the focus was incredibly specific: What did Pell know, and when, and what did he do about it? Pell admitted that a significant number of people knew about abuse by Christian brothers at schools in his parish he even said he had heard about misbehaviour by two priests and that the church had moved one offending priest from parish to parish while dismissing credible allegations of abuse in absolutely scandalous circumstances. But, he insisted, the problem was with individuals, rather than the overall church. I think the faults overwhelming have been more personal faults, personal failures, rather than structures, he testified. Pell served as a parish priest, educator and adviser to the Bishop in Ballarat for a decade in the 1970s and early 80s. He ultimately became Archbishop of Melbourne and then of Sydney, before being tapped to help reform the churchs finances in 2014. He departed for Rome to great fanfare in 2014, the Australian press reported at the time; supporters called him the defender of the faith down under. Meanwhile, Ballarat, where Pell had been a priest for so long, was roiling from a sexual abuse scandal that was still being uncovered. Six Christian Brothers who had worked at various school in the parish were accused of serially exploiting dozens, even hundreds, of students. Four were ultimately convicted of sex crimes, another died before the accusations became public. In addition, Gerald Ridsdale, the chaplain at parish school St. Alipius who had lived with Pell for two years was found guilty of sexually abusing more than 50 children. Ballarat has got this hidden trauma and landscape of death about it, Peter Blenkiron, a victim, told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation last year. He blamed the abuse for a suicide epidemic he said plagued the city. Asked about former Ballarat Bishop Ronald Mulkearns decision to relocate Ridsdale the now defrocked priest was moved to at least nine different parishes over the course of his career, something the church is often accused of doing when faced with allegations of abuse Pell said he had no role in it, according to The Associated Press. I have just reread the file of Ridsdale. The priest. Ex-priest. And the way he was dealt with was a catastrophe, Cardinal Pell told the commission, according to the ABC. A catastrophe for the victims and a catastrophe for the church. If effective action had been taken earlier, an enormous amount of suffering wouldve been avoided. Pell has also denied allegations that he was aware of abuses by convicted ex-Brother Ted Dowlan, who was also moved from school to school over the course of 15 years. A victim testified at a hearing last February that hed tried to tell Pell about the abuse while at a swimming pool in 1973, according to the Australian newspaper The Age. Pell allegedly replied, Dont be ridiculous. Pressed by Gail Furness, the lead lawyer assisting the commission, Pell said that hed heard one or two fleeting references to misbehaviour by Dowlan in the 1970s that he thought could have been pedophilia activity, according to The Associated Press. But he said he wasnt aware of the names of the victims, or how many there were, or how widespread knowledge of Dowlans offences were. Last year, Dowlan was sentenced to six years in prison for abusing 20 boys. Pell also said he was aware of the allegations about a brother named Gerald Leo Fitzgerald, who was said to kiss boys and swim naked with students. It was certainly unusual, but ... nobody said weve got to do something about this, he testified, according to the AP. It was the closest he had ever come to saying he knew about the abuses that were happening in Ballarat while he was a priest there. The Royal Commission later found that at least 15 people accused Fitzgerald of abuse between 1950 and 1975; his average alleged victim was eight years old. Fitzgerald died in 1987, without ever being charged of a crime. The commission has presented testimony showing that church officials were well aware of the abuse committed by Ridsdale, Dowlan and others in Ballarat. The sexual offending by Christian Brothers at St. Alipius school and St. Pats school was known by a significant number in the community would you agree with that? Furness asked Pell. I would agree that it was known to all the people whom youve mentioned and they do constitute a significant number, the cardinal replied. Pell explained that children who came forward with accusations of abuse were less likely to be believed. In those days, if a priest denied such activity, I was very strongly inclined to accept the denial, he said. This was true across the church, he continued: At that stage, the instinct was more to protect the institution, the community of the church, from shame. But he said he couldnt ever recall hearing a complaint about abuse himself. I dont remember any such thing happening and therefore I dont believe it did but my memory is sometimes fallible, he said, according to the ABC. Its all about still sort of passing the buck a little bit, cant remember and all those things, Tim Lane, a Ballarat resident who has testified that he was fondled by priest Grant Ross at age four, told the ABC. But I remember as a four-year-old, Im 44 now, and that was 40 years ago. Very clear and vivid. These guys were priests in their 20s and that, and they cant recall and cant remember? Well, the whole world aint that gullible. Lanes brother John, who attended St. Alipius, committed suicide at age 19, according to the Sydney Morning Herald. His family says that John was abused by Fitzgerald. David Ridsdale, who was abused by Gerald Ridsdale his uncle told the ABC he was encouraged by Pells use of terms like scandalous and catastrophe. But, he continued, Words are one thing, actions are another. Were waiting for the actions which include ensuring not only that those catastrophes never happen again but to be acknowledging and explaining why those catastrophes happened. SHARE: Christians are no longer our enemies, wrote Rabbi Ron Kronish, the founder of the Interreligious Coordinating Council in Israel, in the Jerusalem Post Magazine earlier this month: The Crusades are over! We are no longer at war with Christians or Christianity. The change began with the Vatican declaration Nostra Aetate 50 years ago that transformed Christian-Jewish relations. The new challenge is to bring about something similar in Muslim-Jewish relations. It has been argued that, though the conflict is entangled in ostensibly secular politics, improved interfaith relations would promote peace between Israel and the Palestinians. With this in mind, Rabbi Kronish brought together some months ago more than a hundred Jews, Christians and Muslims to a conference in Jerusalem to discuss the future of Jewish-Muslim relations in the light of the Vatican document. He urged the panellists not to rehearse the past but to look ahead. After all that had been said and written about achievements in the last half-century, he suggested that we now need to plan for the next 50 years to outline some directions that could point toward a solution both locally and globally. What follows are some salient points made by two Israeli rabbis who spoke at the gathering. Rabbi Michael Melchior, one of a handful of orthodox religious leaders in Israel engaged in interfaith dialogue, was most optimistic about prospects of success. Bearing in mind that its impossible to consider relations between Judaism and Islam without paying attention to the conflict between Palestinians and Israelis, he suggested that one reason why the peace process hasnt succeeded is because it has ignored its religious dimension and, worse, often misrepresented it. Rabbi Melchior, a former Israeli parliamentarian, wants to bring interfaith into politics, not politics into interfaith. He believes that the media should promote it. Instead of citing the opinions of recognized mainstream moderate leaders it frequently quotes extremists and describes them as authentic voices of their respective traditions. This tends to fuel both Islamophobia and anti-Semitism. Reporting on his numerous close encounters with exponents of Islam across its many divides, Melchior insisted that the overwhelming majority of Muslim leaders are eager to engage in dialogue with Jews and make peace with Israel based on religious principles common to both religions. He was born and raised in Copenhagen, the capital of Denmark. Another speaker at the conference, Rabbi Noa Sattath, director of the Israel Religious Action Centre of the Reform movement in Judaism, pointed to a Danish precedent as a symbolic yet tangible way of promoting peace. After the attack on the Copenhagen synagogue a year ago, local Muslims came together to surround the building and hold hands in protest against the violence thus expressing solidarity with their Jewish neighbours. It was a symbolic grassroots act with potentially far reaching implications beyond Denmarks borders. Rabbi Sattath urged the use of the model in Jerusalem. Instead of Jewish triumphalism thats often in evidence on Jerusalem Day, the anniversary of the Jews return to the entire city after the 1967 war, she argued that Jews, Christians and Muslims should mark the occasion by surrounding its walls and hold hands as a manifestation of friendship, goodwill and commitment to coexistence. This would send a wholesome message at home and abroad hopefully inspiring others to engage in corresponding gestures of religious commitment and interfaith co-operation. Whereas, as Rabbi Kronish indicated, since the Vatican proclamation in 1965 Christian-Jewish co-operation has gone far beyond the symbolic, interfaith dialogue with Islam is still very much in its infancy. Symbolism may be all thats possible at this stage. But religious people know perhaps more than others that symbols can turn into substance. Dow Marmur is rabbi emeritus at Torontos Holy Blossom Temple. His column appears every other week. SHARE: NEW YORK (Real Money) -- Jim Cramer shares his views every day on RealMoney.Click here for a real-time look at his insights and musings. Meet the 'Value Consumers' Posted at 1:21 p.m. EST on Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016 We want value. We want value wherever we can find it. That's a unifying principal among all of the quarters we've seen in retail and restaurants. It's resonating so loudly that it's like a DIN --- and I mean DIN, the symbol for DineEquity (DIN) -- because that company (which owns IHOP) fits the value paradigm. Now, eight years out of the worse downturn since the Great Depression, you would think people would want to spend more money again. Splurge even. But like the Great Depression, this Great Recession has left scars on us -- scars that haven't gone away. It always bugged me that my father was so chary with money, not that we had much. But we went out to dinner as a family maybe once or twice a year, typically on Mother's Day where we would go to some allegedly nice place and Pop would make it so Mom didn't have to make dinner. Of course, when we went out we had to drink water, because we weren't going to let them fool us in ordering a soda before the meal. Wasted money. A lot of that was a total hangover from the Great Depression, where my father saw first hand what could happen with the economy and how you always wanted to be a saver, not a spender. I think we're in as similar situation now, and that it's defining what's working and what's not. Let's take spending on furnishings. Restoration Hardware (RH) is getting killed today, down 27%. And that's on top of the stock already having been cut in half going into last night's news about how the quarter will be much weaker than expected. Restoration Hardware makes expensive stuff. CEO Gary Friedman -- who was, in fairness, pretty subdued when he was last on Mad Money -- said that the tough January for the stock market, plus the decline in oil and the strong dollar all hurt. Makes sense, his store in Miami catered to wealthy South Americans. Suddenly with their currencies and economies, they aren't that wealthy. His store in Houston catered to wealthy oil people. Energy and currency also hurt the Canadian operations. Last night on Mad Money, we talked about the downfall of the stock of Williams-Sonoma (WSM) . Same deal -- too expensive, no bargain. But then listen to the call last night from TJX Cos. (TJX) and you hear about outstanding sales for HomeGoods, its value-conscious retail operation for housewares. I love my HomeGoods in Neptune, N.J. I often go in trying to buy one seasonal item and come out with three times what I thought I would get. Let's stick with TJX. The bargains they give you in clothes are directly related to the inability of the broadline retailers to sell branded goods from VF (VFC) or Ralph Lauren (RL) or HanesBrands (HBI) . T.J. Max, another store I adore (it's in TheStreet's building), gets all of that closeout merchandise, marks it up to still what's a fraction of what you would pay at the department stores and it's a terrific value. How about food? Do you know that not one but two companies in the restaurant business -- Jack in the Box (JACK) and Popeye's Louisiana Kitchen (PLKI) (as we heard last night from CEO Cheryl Bachelder) -- cited the value offerings from the burger joints, presumably of course from McDonald's (MCD) , but also Wendy's (WEN) , as reasons for their shortfalls? Wendy's and McDonald's are coming in well under these guys for price. So is the aforementioned Dine Equity with its pancakes. These are all of a piece: Whoever offers the most value wins. I know it seems counterintuitive, but it's ingrained right down to the stores we shop at and where we eat. There's a new generation of Cramers out there, and they aren't spending as often as they used to. And when they do, they eschew the frills. They want the value or they aren't buying at all. At the time of publication, Action Alerts PLUS, which Cramer co-manages as a charitable trust, was long JACK. Apple Stays Afloat in Sea of Assaults Posted at 7:00 p.m. EST on Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016 The following commentary was originally sent to Action Alerts PLUSsubscribers on Feb. 24, 2016, at 4:50 p.m. ET. Have you noticed that they've tried to throw everything at Apple (AAPL) but the kitchen sink and the darned thing won't come down? First, we know the obvious: The company's refusal to give up the code to the FBI, something that has earned it the enmity of Republican Party front-runner Donald Trump, who is calling for a boycott of the company. Hate him or like him, he's got more airtime than anyone on Earth, and if he chooses to hammer Apple it won't be positive for sales. (Apple is part of TheStreet's Action Alerts PLUS portfolio.) Second, if Apple does give up the codes, what happens to sales in China? Won't the Chinese want the codes? China's the big growth market for the company. It would be a natural for the party to join Trump in a boycott of Apple products, except this one would be pretty effective given that the Communist Party is a totalitarian organization. Third, we have been getting more of these channel-check studies of late where brokers trip over each other to say Apple's sales are going to be horrendous and that cellphones have peaked. We get one a day. They all try to outdo each other in being negative. This most recent one I read, from some outfit I don't even know, said iPhone demand will drop 18% year over year and there's a lot of excess inventory. I know there could be excess inventory because Apple's about to launch an iPhone 7 in the fall. If you are at this stage of the year and you don't have a 6 or if you don't want to change carriers and upgrade, it may make sense to hold off to see how exciting the next one might be. Plus, we are hearing reports that Apple's going to have a March event where a new iteration of the Apple Watch might come out. What could it have? CEO Tim Cook has said he doesn't want to subject the watch to the FDA process, but that doesn't mean there could be apps made by others that could help turn the watch into more than just a cool device that tells you to stand up and walk around. Maybe at that meeting the company will take the time to talk about the expanding service revenue that's coming from a billion devices sold, something that's bringing in about $30 billion in sales. Let's put it this way: I wouldn't be betting on a negative surprise. Perhaps more important than all of this is that Apple's got a buyback of immense proportions and it is entirely possible that it is standing there buying stock knowing that when the company reports next it will be the last quarter before the new iteration, the 7, might be coming out. Apple knows that more than anyone, right? Considering that CEO Lowell McAdam of Verizon (VZ) and CEO John Legere of T-Mobile (TMUS) , two of the big four, have told me personally the 7 will be a big deal for them, I think selling it now with everyone aware that Apple's going to have a weak quarter may be a little counterintuitive. Funny that when everyone knows something's negative, it tends to be baked into the stock already. And at 10x earnings? Maybe, just maybe, the bad news is in, but the good news? Let's just say I don't know of a soul who's looking for any. At the time of publication, Action Alerts PLUS, which Cramer co-manages as a charitable trust, was long AAPL. In a blockbuster settlement announced Feb. 11, American International Group (AIG) struck a deal with billionaire insurgent Carl Icahn that authorized a $5 billion stock repurchase program and installed two new dissident directors onto the mega-insurer's board. The whole deal came after AIG -- responding to Icahn efforts to break the company up -- already repurchased about $11 billion in shares in 2015 and $2.5 billion in 2016. On a much smaller scale, last month online food-order platform GrubHubundefined announced it had authorized a $100 million stock buyback program and the addition of two new independent directors after Pelham Capital late last year launched an activist campaign seeking talks about capitalization, strategy (a sale?) and future plans. In the midsized company territory, Marcato Capital Management last year urged Lear LEA to split into two companies and buy back about $1 billion in shares. A few days later, the automotive seating and electrical distribution company hiked its buy back plan from $339 million to $1 billion. These are just three of dozens of recent situations that have emerged where activist funds have agitated for change driving corporate executives -- worried about losing their jobs in some cases -- to respond with a hike in capital distributions. The number of activist campaigns where a key dissident objective is returning cash via a dividend or buyback is on the rise in recent years. There were 69 campaigns in 2015 that involved the insurgent pushing for some sort of capital distribution, up from 51 in 2014 and 60 in 2013 and 39 in 2012, according to Factset. Activists also have been having more success lately convincing companies to dish out. Of those campaigns, activists succeeded at convincing targeted companies to launch or expand a repurchase program or set up or increase a dividend program at 29 companies in 2015, 19 in 2014, 23 in 2013 and 19 in 2012. This year activists have already launched three campaigns urging capital distributions -- with more expected to be announced shortly. In addition, companies are employing stock buybacks or issuing dividends even if the activist doesn't appear to want them as a means of appeasing a disgruntled institutional investor base that might otherwise be tempted to back an insurgent investor's slate of directors. This comes in an environment where total buybacks at S&P 500 companies surged to a record $246 billion in the third quarter of 2015, up 4.9% from a year earlier, while dividends reached the $95 billion mark in the same period, according to Aranca Investment Research. The increased pressure by activists on stock buybacks is driving some corporations and high-profile institutional investors to push back, arguing that distributions provide a short-term share price boost at the expense of long-term value creation. At the forefront of this campaign is Lawrence Fink, the CEO of the largest U.S. money manager, BlackRock (BLK) . He has argued in highly publicized letters that short-term activists and a 24/7 news-cycle push corporate leaders to engage in capital distributions while "underinvesting" in innovation and workers. However, activist funds complain that it doesn't make sense to vilify buybacks. They insist the distributions are sought as part of a broader campaign to hike a company's share price value over the long term and ensure its future earnings are distributed to a narrower ownership group. "This isn't about physically boosting a company's stock price," said one activist investor. "That's a short-term boost. The real impact is that the future earnings of a company are now distributed to a narrower group of owners so there is a larger piece of the pie for everyone around." Activists will get the support of institutional investors to push for buybacks in situations at companies with good future prospects that are trading at "ridiculously" low valuations, he added. "Funds don't target companies they think will go down the drain after the buyback," he said. "You would not be supported by long-term institutional investors if you did." Finding itself in the middle of the corporate-activist squabble over buybacks is the Securities and Exchange Commission. The agency has been under increased public pressure to take some action to quell the recent hike in activist-driven capital distributions. Sen. Tammy Baldwin sent a letter in November urging the agency to take steps to improve its collection of data on buybacks and convert a more-than-decade-old quarterly reporting regime for distributions into a daily one "in the interest of understanding the causes and effects of the buyback phenomenon." The Wisconsin Democrat also urges the SEC to require annual disclosures of performance metrics used by firms to compensate executives, including information about stock-based metrics such as earnings per share. Decision makers on Wall Street (read: activists, analysts) and in C-Suites, she argues, have a role in the growing phenomenon of stock-based compensation "encouraging executives to favor stock-price inflation over product investment." In an interview with reporters earlier this month, SEC Chairman Mary Jo White said the agency is "looking at the frequency" of disclosure issue as part of a much larger transparency initiative. In a letter to Baldwin, White noted agency staffers are seeking input from companies and market participants "about the need for more frequent and granular information about stock buybacks." In addition, a person familiar with the SEC told The Deal the concept of more frequent buy-back disclosures is something the agency is actively examining. The SEC is asking questions to find out the costs and benefits of any change and whether more details should be required beyond existing obligations to reveal the total number of shares repurchased and the average price paid. "There is a fair question about what intervals are necessary for buyback disclosure and how much information [the SEC] has," he said. In any event, such a modification to the disclosure regime would need to be completed within a proposal and rule-writing approach, requiring the approval of a majority of the agency's oversight panel. The prospects for more reporting on buybacks -- not surprisingly -- isn't being met enthusiastically by the corporate community already besieged by buyback demand. One former SEC staffer who now advises corporations on disclosure argues that companies already have a variety of rules they need to abide by when it comes to buy backs including a series of anti-manipulation restrictions. "Companies can't just willy-nilly buy shares the day before they are about to release material non-public information about a blockbuster quarter," he said. Business critics argue there would be tangible and intangible costs associated with a daily reporting regime. "Public companies have enough reporting requirements and having a daily buyback reporting system, one more thing to do every day, would divert management attention from overseeing the company," said the ex-SEC staffer. As a middle ground, the agency could require companies to report when they conduct a significant buyback as part of a "material disclosure" 8-K filing. "This way if you only buy back two shares on one particular day you don't have to report it," he said. "I don't think it's necessary but it could be a realistic compromise between imposing a serious drain on company resources and letting the market know what is going on." Not all buyback initiatives in response to activists are genuine. One corporate adviser to companies targeted by activists notes that on some occasions executives will authorize a large buyback program to appease an activist and disgruntled shareholder base even though they don't have any intention to do a distribution in the short term. A daily or at least more frequent reporting regime would alert activists to that phenomenon. Andrew Freedman, a New York partner at Olshan Frome Wolosky who advises activist funds, argues that more transparency in the form of more frequent buyback disclosure updates would be a good thing. "We see companies all the time that announce an increased authorization of their buyback program as a reactionary move to appease shareholders with little to no assurance about when the company will actually conduct the share repurchases," Freedman said. Phil Goldstein, founder of activist fund Bulldog Investors, notes that in his experience companies will give "lipservice" to activists by authorizing buybacks without follow up distributions. "You see a buyback announcement and then bupkis," Goldstein said. "They should be held accountable for not doing a buyback when there is an authorization." Nevertheless, activist investors are split about whether more disclosure of buybacks would be helpful - though they generally agree with corporations that daily disclosure would be too much. Goldstein argued monthly disclosure would be better than daily. "Companies don't want to have people trading against them and doing some sort of arbitrage," Goldstein said. "They should be opportunistic when they do buybacks. I would say monthly disclosure is reasonable because you want to see that they are serious about it." Jim Mitarotonda, chairman and CEO of activist fund Barington Capital Group, agrees a daily reporting requirement may hurt companies' ability to buy back stock at the right prices. Nevertheless, he argued that companies often don't conduct buybacks at the right time. "The problem you get on buybacks is that most of the time they are done at market highs," Mitarotonda said. "When markets decline, executives often become fearful and don't go and buy back stock. But that's exactly when they should be buying." A top governance official at one of the largest U.S. public pension funds agreed daily disclosure of buybacks would be bad for companies and their investors. The unintended consequence, he suggested, would be for companies to hire brokers to buy back shares at automatic regular intervals so as not to send a message to the markets that they believe their stock is always undervalued. "If you make them disclose every day it is too much of a signal to the market and you would be taking away their flexibility to buy shares at the best prices," he said. However, at least one activist backs more frequent disclosure because it could put a spotlight on companies that conduct buybacks to offset dilution generated from the issuance of new shares for executives. "I've seen companies that say, 'Don't worry about the dilution from the new issuances to executives because we've issued a buyback to offset it,'" said Ted White, director at activist fund Legion Partners. Nevertheless, corporate advisers point out that hikes in stock-based pay is often necessary to "lock down" executives and make sure they don't take other jobs in the midst of an insurgency campaign swirling around a company and that in many cases cash may not be available, making stock-based payments the only route possible for hiking CEO compensation. "If someone is attacking you and it's a high profile activist you need to try to lock down key employees and that often means stock-based compensation," said one corporate adviser. In addition, the SEC is in the process of approving a rule that would expand disclosures around stock-based executive compensation metrics. The measure in question, proposed almost a year ago in April and expected to be approved in 2016, would require companies to disclose the relationship between CEO pay and the financial performance of the company, including a new table looking at total shareholder return on an annual basis. Activists are eager to get more disclosure about metrics employed to determine CEO pay. Barington's Mitarotonda said he believes there should be at least two, possibly three, metrics employed for determining executive compensation, adding that he didn't mind if one of them was based on earnings-per-share. "It's up to the compensation committee and board to make sure that the proper metric are employed to enhance shareholder value with both short-term and long-term elements," he said. Activist agitations and their related corporate share distributions aren't expected to let up anytime soon. As pressure mounts watch for the SEC to issue no buyback and CEO pay metric disclosure requirements in the months to come. When General Electric (GE) abruptly tore up its $3.3 billion deal to sell its appliances unit to Electrolux (ELUXY) midway through a court fight with the Department of Justice in December, few doubted that the conglomerate would find a buyer. But most people expected the process -- at least its third attempt to offload the business -- would take time. Just over a month later, however, GE stunned the market when it agreed to a $5.4 billion bid from China's Qingdao Haier, which had beatem off multiple strategic bidders and private equity firms to put together a fully funded offer pitched at a generous 10 times earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization. Overseas acquisitions by the Chinese aren't new, of course. Back in 2005, Lenovo (LNVGY) made headlines with the $1.75 billion purchase of the PC business of IBM (IBM) , and that same year Cnooc (CEO) sparked a firestorm in the U.S. with its ultimately unsuccessful $16.5 billion bid for Los Angeles power company Unocal. But the pace of outbound dealmaking has accelerated, the external impetuses and range of protagonists have expanded, and, as the GE appliances deal showed, bidders are getting more sophisticated. In other words, China isn't just asserting itself in dealmaking, it's become a Big Red M&A Machine. "Chinese companies are able to survive a very competitive auction process by being able to compete on speed, debt lines, price and financing capability to a Western standard," said UBS Asia M&A head Samson Lo. Dealogic figures show Chinese buyers struck a record $112.1 billion of cross-border deals last year, up 57% from 2014. And already this year Chinese companies have notched deals worth $81.5 billion, according to the M&A data provider. The largest of those transactions this year is China National Chemical's Sfr44.6 billion ($44.9 billion) record-setting deal to buy Swiss agricultural chemicals and seeds producer Syngenta (SYT) . The Feb. 3 agreement is more than double the size of the previous biggest outbound Chinese acquisition, the $19.4 billion purchase in 2013 of Canadian energy company Nexen by Cnooc. Other huge deals so far this year also include an agreement on Feb. 17 by Tianjin Tianhai Investment, a division of conglomerate HNA, to pay $6 billion for Irvine, Calif., electronics distributor Ingram Micro (IM) . And earlier in February, Beijing Enterprises Holdings (BJINY) set a record for Chinese investment in Germany with its agreement to buy EEW Energy from Waste from Sweden's EQT Partners for 1.44 billion ($1.6 billion). Both ChemChina and Beijing Enterprises are state-owned enterprises, or SOEs, while HNA, based on the island of Hainan, is something of a hybrid. But privately owned Chinese companies are increasingly crossing borders, too, notably Wang Jianlin's huge property and services conglomerate Dalian Wanda (DWNDF) , which in January agreed to buy Burbank, Calif., film studio Legendary Entertainment for up to about $3.5 billion. Adding the U.S. content producer comes after Dalian Wanda spent $2.6 billion in 2013 to purchase Leawood, Kan., cinema chain AMC Entertainment Holdings. Slowing Chinese growth and higher margins overseas provide part of the explanation, as does, in the case of SOEs, a government plan to foster "national champions" by encouraging them to snare foreign targets. But newer factors are at play, too. The equity market losses of the first weeks of the year are fueling Chinese companies' outbound appetite rather than suppressing it. In part, that's because stock markets have fallen outside China, too, crimping company valuations, including in Europe, which was the biggest target of Chinese M&A last year. And recent renminbi devaluations have spurred companies to strike before the Chinese currency falls further and makes overseas purchases costlier. Such market volatility and associated macroeconomic worries have also made diversification out of China more pressing for all types of companies and individuals, raising concerns about capital outflows. Chinese bidders historically have focused on acquiring resources during the commodities boom and have also snapped up infrastructure, makers of components or, as in the Haier/GE deal or with Fosun International's (FOSUF) purchase last year of Club Mediteranee, consumer brands and associated distribution networks. Now Chinese suitors are increasingly seeking the proprietary technology and know-how that will take their country beyond a mammoth manufacturing hub. "China can't be 'Made in China' for ever. We have to be 'Create in China,' 'Innovate in China,'" said John Zai, founder and CEO of Cocoon Networks, a recently launched London-based investor and startup services provider which has Chinese backers. "We don't have that kind of advantage any more, so we have to look at the next stage, which is upgrading our manufacturing, upgrading our intellectual property." Andre Loesekrug-Pietri, founder of Euro-Asian private equity firm A Capital, added: "A lot of Chinese firms are now hit by huge competition but they have very little added value because perhaps they don't own brands or have technology." Howard Yu, a professor at the International Institute for Management Development in Lausanne, said ChemChina's purchase of Syngenta is fundamentally different from the Chinese acquisitions that came before it. "Syngenta is very much in the upstream, R&D environment so this is the type of domain that Chinese players tended to avoid in the past," he said. "It is almost a new-to-the-world phenomenon to have a latecomer acquiring a company upstream in the value chain." In a similar vein to ChemChina with Syngenta, Yu predicts that China's numerous contract research companies, which provide services to the pharmaceutical industry, or even Chinese newcomers to health care, could in five years' time "move up the value chain" into drug discovery. Other impetuses for Chinese dealmaking include the fact that certain regulatory hurdles have fallen for Chinese companies. They often have an innate antitrust advantage anyway -- as Haier will inevitably have over Electrolux in the GE Appliances bidding, and as ChemChina had over thwarted Syngenta bidder Monsanto (MON) -- simply because they're moving into a new geography or new sector. But most types of outbound acquirers received a huge fillip when the Chinese Ministry of Commerce relaxed approval requirements for cross-border deals in January 2014. That created a virtuous circle, in which target companies could see other Chinese deals getting completed, advisers note. "Western targets are becoming more and more open to receiving an offer from a Chinese bidder," asserted UBS' Lo. "The risk will always be there, but the Chinese are now understanding that there is always some discussion around regulatory risk, so they are able to consider a break fee, deposit or other assurances." The increasing use of international advisers has helped Chinese companies compete effectively in auctions. Vanguard acquirer ChemChina used Standard Chartered and Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer for its January purchase of German machinery maker KraussMaffei, and HSBC Holdings and Simpson Thacher & Bartlett for Syngenta. Bank financing, for now at least, remains abundant, and Hengeler Mueller Shanghai-based partner Changfeng Tu said acquirers are getting more adventurous. "The first step is to try to get normal M&A bank loans, but once they get familiar with the process, they will not deny other financing possibilities, provided it is safe and the interest rate is reasonable," he said. Another boon for Chinese companies is that they have steadily gained a reputation for helping Western targets expand, something that Zhejiang Geely Holding did with Volvo Cars after buying it from Ford Motor (F) for $1.5 billion in 2010. ChemChina with its deal to purchase Syngenta and its 925 million takeover of KraussMaffei emphasized the growth opportunities it could provide -- and its willingness to keep incumbent management. "Chinese companies would deliberately keep the Western company autonomous, for the particular reason that they are there to learn. Once they integrate they are going to destroy the very thing that they wanted to acquire," said IMD's Yu. Bob Partridge, Ernst & Young's head of transaction advisory services for Greater China, added: "They are less likely to cut the workforce," he explained. "They really aren't going in there with a vulture mindset." That said, Chinese companies are becoming more aggressive. China's Zoomlion Heavy Industry Science and Technology (ZLIOY) in January crashed into cranes and construction equipment maker Terex's (TEX) merger agreement with Finland's Konecranes (KNCRF) , with an unsolicited $3.3 billion bid for the Westport, Conn., company. And earlier that month, China Resources (Holdings) briefly turned Fairchild Semiconductor International'sundefined head when it tried to disrupt a deal with ON Semiconductor (ON) with a higher, $2.46 billion bid, sweetened with a $200 million breakup fee. So what's in store for the rest of the year? Observers predict cross-border Chinese activity in sectors related to urbanization and the environment. Witness Chengdu Techcent Environment's 200 million in February to buy the water technology unit of Germany's Bilfinger (BFLBY) . Renewable energy will be a big theme as China seeks to meet commitments made at the United Nations climate change conference in Paris in December. Ernst & Young's Partridge noted that oil, gas, power and utilities companies, when combined, formed the largest sector in outbound dealmaking in 2015, with 18% of total deals. He sees that Chinese interest in outward M&A thinking to continue. Consumer-sector targets are likely to remain popular as bidders seek brands that can command a premium over local equivalents, as will health care. Automotive and heavy machinery targets are tipped to lure interest, particularly the mid-sized companies that form the backbone of German industry known as the Mittelstand and helped make Germany China's top European destination last year. "The Mittlestand companies possess great R&D. They are the natural partners for Chinese companies when they want to go abroad," said the IMD's Yu. "At the same time, the size of a mid-sized company fits much better with the risk appetite." Resources deals look unlikely to pick up this year after falling off a cliff last year as commodity prices plunged. And although technology targets will remain popular, as with Fairchild Semiconductor, which on Feb. 16 spurned China Resources and Hua Capital Management's $2.46 billion offer, citing concerns over the U.S. approval process, semiconductor acquisitions in the U.S. look likely to remain problematic. IMD professor Yu also predicted that any technology that touches on defense or government surveillance will remain out of bounds. In terms of geographies, Europe looks likely to win over the U.S., especially since the deal tally is now inflated by Syngenta. Europe was the target of 45% of outbound Chinese acquisitions last year, according to A Capital's Dragon Index. One big reason for that is because Chinese companies still fret the regulatory obstacles they will face in the U.S., particularly from the Committee on Foreign Investments in the U.S., or CFIUS, even though some advisers say that fear is receding. It was only Feb. 23, for example, that Chinese investment group Unisplendour terminated the nearly $3.8 billion purchase of a 15% stake in storage provider Western Digital (WDC) after CFIUS notified the parties that it would investigate the deal. Other Chinese victims of CFIUS include GO Scale Capital's $3.3 billion consortium purchase of the lighting components business of Royal Philips, while, as with Fairchild Resources, the mere specter of CFIUS intervention last year stopped a fledgling -- and never confirmed -- $23 billion bid for chipmaker Micron Technology (MU) from Tsinghua Unigroup in its tracks. So it hardly comes as a surpirse that, on Feb. 17, electronics distributor Ingram Micro built in a $400 million CFIUS-related termination fee into its $6 billion takeover deal with Tianjin Tianhai. "Because of the political issue, I don't believe China and the U.S. are going to be really close," Cocoon Networks' Zai predicted. Instead, he interprets President Xi Jinping's high-profile visit to the U.K. last fall as heralding "a high degree of cooperation between the U.K. and China." In addition to the obvious risk of regulatory snarl-ups, Hengeler Mueller's Tu has observed a lingering propensity among Chinese buyers to attempt to go back to the drawing board with the share purchase agreement if issues arise, long after the Western counterparty has cleared away the champagne bottles. "This is changing because more and more Chinse buyers are getting aware of Western-style dealmaking," he said. "But if you have a very local, very traditional business man, this could still be the case." Another risk is the Chinese government's anti-corruption clampdown which, in December, may have contributed to the collapse of Fosun International's bid for Belgian financial services holding company BHF Kleinwort Benson. It fell apart after Fosun Chairman Guo Guangchang's brief and unexplained arrest and detention. The incident looks even more likely, judging from Israeli reports, to have derailed Fosun's deal for 1.8 billion shekels ($460 million) for a controlling stake in Delek (DGRLY) insurer Phoenix Holdings. The repercussions of Guangchang's arrest may have been so profound as to decelerate dealmaking by SOEs last year as they sought to avoid additional scrutiny amid what some saw as a politically motivated crackdown on certain powerful company executives. A Capital's Dragon Index found that private Chinese companies' outbound investments grew by 51% last year while SOEs' actually fell by 9%. In terms of macro risks, even if companies are taking a lower renminbi on the chin, credit worries look more serious and may bite later this year. Chinese companies are laden with debt, with some of the SOEs having debt-to-Ebitda multiples that would be unthinkable in the private sector. In fact, total Chinese debt, including household and company borrowing, stands at an estimated 250% of GDP. Non-performing loans at the end of 2015 were already at a 10-year high of Rmb1.27 trillion ($194.7 billion), though the China Banking Regulatory Commission recently insisted that credit quality "was generally under control." But lenders are on alert. For example, Hong Kong-based Bank of East Asia on Feb. 16 noted that it's reining in lending because of Chinese credit worries. (It is being attacked by Elliott Management for its continuous lackluster performance). Consortium bids, such as Beijing Kunlun Tech and Qihoo 360 Technology's (QIHU) 10.5 billion Norwegian kroner ($1.2 billion) purchase of Opera Software with Golden Brick Silk Road Fund Management (Shenzhen) and an affiliate, are seen likely to accelerate to reduce the financing burden on buyers. And even the mighty ChemChina is reportedly assembling partners for its Syngenta bid, including China Reform Holdings, according to Bloomberg. Still, some observers warn that the credit bubble could explode later this year. The IMD's Yu points out that much hinges on the property market, given that one-fifth of the economy is tied to real estate yet there is an massive oversupply of recently built housing and entire urban areas, known as ghost cities, lying vacant. Even though the government, starting from last year, began a concerted policy of allowing struggling companies to fail, to do so in the real estate sector would be catastrophic. "The Chinese government can really ill afford not to prop up the property market," Yu said. "Otherwise the whole thing comes down." Whatever lies ahead, Chinese companies are showing no signs of stepping off the M&A escalator. M&A protagonists remain generally optimistic, though A Capital's Loesekrug-Pietri advises observers to look beyond a handful of high-profile deals. "Yes, it's accelerating but we are still a fifth of what other huge blocks [namely the U.S. and Europe] are doing," he said. Hengeler Mueller's Changfeng Tu predicted that Chinese outbound expansion will survive current macro uncertainties. "If you talk to clients and try to understand their logic, this is something that will continue for the next five to 10 years," he said. Stocks lost gains by mid-afternoon Monday as Valeant Pharmaceuticals (VRX) led the health care sector lower. The S&P 500 was down 0.06%, the Dow Jones Industrial Average slipped 0.07%, and the Nasdaq fell 0.05%. Benchmark indexes were up roughly half a percent earlier in the session. Valeant Pharmaceuticals fell 7% after retracting its financial guidance and announcing plans to reschedule its fourth-quarter earnings report. The drug company has been under intense pressure over investigations into its pricing structure and resulting accounting problems. The health care sector was the worst performer Monday. Major drugmakers such as Amgen (AMGN) , Sanofi (SNY) , Eli Lilly (LLY) and AstraZeneca (AZN) were in the red, while the Health Care Select Sector SPDR ETF (XLV) slid 0.8%. Eli Lilly is a holding in Jim Cramer's Action Alerts PLUS portfolio. Exclusive Look Inside: You see Jim Cramer on TV. Now, see where he invests his money and why Eli Lilly is a core holding of his multi-million dollar portfolio. Want to be alerted before Jim Cramer buys or sells LLY?Learn more now. Crude oil added to gains on Monday after Saudi Arabia voiced its support for cooperation among members of the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries to stabilize prices. Key OPEC members and Russia have engaged in negotiations over a production cap in recent weeks. "The kingdom (of Saudi Arabia) seeks to achieve stability in the oil markets and will always remain in contact with all main producers in an attempt to limit volatility and it welcomes any cooperative action," the Saudi Arabian cabinet wrote in a statement. Crude prices have seen volatile swings as talk among the countries' oil ministers fueled hope and skepticism a production cap agreement could be reached. West Texas Intermediate crude was up 3% to $33.76 a barrel. A prolonged period of lower oil prices was hurting a number of oil producers. Both NRG Energy (NRG) and Consol Energy (CNX) announced cuts to their dividend payouts on Monday, following in major oiler BHP Billiton's (BHP) footsteps. BHP cut its dividend for the first time in 15 years last week. The U.S. housing sector cooled in January with pending home sales falling 2.5% to an index reading of 106. The slowdown was likely tied to the fallout from January blizzards and colder winter weather. The index tracks the number of home sales deals in which a contract has been entered but not yet finalized. Economic activity in the Chicago area fell into contraction in February, dragged on by slowing production and fewer new orders in the manufacturing sector. The employment index also fell to its worst level since 2009. The market's mood was more optimistic after China's central bank made more moves to support its economy. China cut the amount banks are required to hold on reserve in an attempt to inject more money into its slowing economy. The People's Bank of China cut the reserve requirement by half a percentage point. This marks the fifth time it has cut its reserve requirement in a year. A weekend meeting of G20 leaders failed to result in any meaningful action to encourage global growth. G20 finance ministers met in Shanghai over the weekend and agreed to use "all policy tools -- monetary, fiscal and structural -- individually and collectively." However, no concrete plans were made to address slowing economic growth in the global economy, particularly in China. China's GDP fell to a 25-year low last year, growing at 6.9% from 7.3% growth in 2014. J.C. Penney (JCP) climbed 6% on Monday as investors continued to cheer the retailer's most recent quarterly success. The stock has climbed more than 20% since reporting earnings on Friday. Taser Internationalundefined shares surged 15% after besting analysts' estimates in its recent quarter. The body-cam manufacturer earned 9 cents a share, a dime better than expected, while revenue jumped 20% to $56 million. Sysco (SYY) edged higher after announcing plans to cut 1,200 jobs in the next 15 months, roughly 2% of its workforce. The food distributor said the layoffs would largely be in administrative roles. Sysco expects to book charges related to severance costs between $25 million and $30 million. American Express (AXP) climbed after agreeing to sell its Costco U.S. co-brand portfolio to Citigroup (C) . The credit-card company expects to generate roughly $1 billion on the sale. Alibaba (BABA) shares were slightly lower after Chairman Jack Ma and Vice Chairman Joe Tsai agreed to buy back a total $500 million. The buyback is part of a broader $4 billion repurchase program unveiled in August. The Chinese e-commerce site has struggled recently with weaker growth, particularly out of its key Chinese market. Lumber Liquidators (LL) fell after swinging to a fourth-quarter loss on the back of slumping growth tied to concerns over the safety of its products. The flooring retailer reported a loss of 73 cents a share, far wider than an expected loss of 23 cents. Boeing (BA) shares were on watch on reports it is considering layoffs of airplane engineers as it assesses a plan to reorganize or consolidate its engineering teams. The aerospace manufacturer is reportedly considering making voluntary layoffs available to workers. NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- MetLife (MET) stock is down 0.65% to $39.83 in midday trading on Monday after the insurance company announced it was selling its U.S. retail adviser force to Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Companyfor $300 million. MassMutual, a Springfield, MA-based mutual life insurance company, will acquire MetLife's Premier Client Group, which includes 4,000 advisers in the U.S. Additionally, MetLife's U.S. retail business will serve as the exclusive developer of certain annuity products issued by MassMutual, the company said in a statement. Earlier this year, MetLife announced it planned to separate its U.S. retail business. "This transaction will enable our U.S. Retail business to sharpen its focus on its core strength in product manufacturing while also providing a broader distribution network through the partnership with MassMutual," MetLife CEO Steven Kandarian said in a statement. "By decoupling manufacturing from distribution, our U.S. Retail business will be more agile, and both MetLife and the U.S. Retail business can achieve significant cost savings." Separately, recently, TheStreet Ratings objectively rated this stock according to its "risk-adjusted" total return prospect over a 12-month investment horizon. Not based on the news in any given day, the rating may differ from Jim Cramer's view or that of this articles's author. TheStreet Ratings rates this stock as a "buy" with a ratings score of B-. The company's strengths can be seen in multiple areas, such as its attractive valuation levels and largely solid financial position with reasonable debt levels by most measures. We feel its strengths outweigh the fact that the company has had sub par growth in net income. You can view the full analysis from the report here: MET MET data by YCharts NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Shares of United Natural Foods (UNFI) are plummeting 20.77% to $31.10 on heavy trading volume on Monday afternoon following the release of disappointing preliminary 2016 second quarter results. For the second quarter, the Providence, RI-based natural and organic food producer forecasts adjusted earnings per diluted share between 47 cents and 49 cents on net sales of about $2.05 billion. Analysts are looking for earnings of 61 cents per share on revenue of $2.07 billion for the period. The food distributor also cut its guidance for fiscal 2016 ending July 30. The company now expects adjusted earnings per share between $2.34 and $2.44 on sales in the range of $8.31 billion to $8.43 billion. In December, United Natural projected adjusted earnings per share between $2.79 and $2.89 on sales of $8.43 billion to $8.59 billion, the Wall Street Journal noted. Increased competition and a weaker Canadian dollar have pressured growth in recent quarters, the Journal added. Additionally, the company said it has agreed to acquire rival grocery distributor Haddon House Food Products for $217.5 million, which will expand United Natural's ethnic and gourmet product categories. United Natural, which is Whole Foods Market's (WFM) main supplier, is scheduled to release its full results on March 7. About 5.93 million of the company's shares were traded by this afternoon, much higher than its average volume of 857,730 shares per day. Separately, TheStreet Ratings Team has a "Hold" rating with a score of C on the stock. The primary factors that have impacted the rating are mixed - some indicating strength, some showing weaknesses, with little evidence to justify the expectation of either a positive or negative performance for this stock relative to most other stocks. The company's strengths can be seen in multiple areas, such as its revenue growth, reasonable valuation levels and good cash flow from operations. As a counter to these strengths, the team also finds weaknesses including disappointing return on equity, poor profit margins and a generally disappointing performance in the stock itself. Recently, TheStreet Ratings objectively rated this stock according to its "risk-adjusted" total return prospect over a 12-month investment horizon. Not based on the news in any given day, the rating may differ from Jim Cramer's view or that of this articles's author. You can view the full analysis from the report here: UNFI UNFI data by YCharts NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Shares of Whiting Petroleum Corp. (WLL) are spiking 9.66% to $4.26 on Monday afternoon as oil prices trade in the green. Crude oil (WTI) is advancing 2.68% to $33.66 per barrel this afternoon and Brent oil is climbing 2.79% to $36.08 per barrel, according to the CNBC.com index. The price of the commodity is rising today as China moved to lift its slowing economy and Saudi Arabia said it would work with other crude exporters to limit market instability, Reuters reports. "We seem to be back to the old play: China injecting money into their system, and the S&P playing along for a risk-on trade in oil," David Thompson, executive vice president at energy-focused broker Powerhouse, told Reuters. The Saudi cabinet said in a statement it "will always remain in contact with all main producers in an attempt to limit volatility and it welcomes any cooperative action," according to Reuters. Oil prices are down about 70% from their mid-2014 highs of more than $100 per barrel. Whiting Petroleum is a Denver-based independent oil and gas company. TheStreet's Daniel Dicker discussed Whiting Petroleum and Continental Resources (CLR) in a February 26 article on RealMoney. "These are the two most prolific Bakken shale players with the choicest acreage admitting that a profit can no longer be made with oil at $30 a barrel. But it also affirms the accompanying nonsense of these shale players -- even the best of them -- to continue to increase production through the year merely with efficiency gains," Dicker said. Additionally, both companies have reported large cuts in production targets for 2016. "They've done it slowly, because they know how deadly it is to their share price to admit how deeply production will drop with the 73% and 80% capex slashing that Continental and Whiting are making, respectively," he added. Continental is claiming a 10% drop for 2016 and Whiting a 21% drop, which is more realistic, Dicker noted. Separately, TheStreet Ratings Team has a "Sell" rating with a score of D on the stock. This is driven by several weaknesses, which should have a greater impact than any strengths, and could make it more difficult for investors to achieve positive results compared to most of the stocks covered. The company's weaknesses can be seen in multiple areas, such as its generally high debt management risk, disappointing return on equity, weak operating cash flow and generally disappointing historical performance in the stock itself. Recently, TheStreet Ratings objectively rated this stock according to its "risk-adjusted" total return prospect over a 12-month investment horizon. Not based on the news in any given day, the rating may differ from Jim Cramer's view or that of this articles's author. You can view the full analysis from the report here: WLL WLL data by YCharts NEW YORK (TheStreet) -- Transocean (RIG) stock is gaining 1.04% to $8.74 in afternoon trading on Monday after crude oil prices increased more than 2%. WTI crude is up 3.33% to $33.87 per barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange, while Brent crude is rising 2.48% to $35.97 per barrel on the Intercontinental Exchange. Oil prices were helped by China's decision to reduce the amount of cash banks are required to have in their reserves, giving an economic boost to the world's largest oil-importing country, Reuters reports. Additionally, OPEC curbed crude oil production in February, compared with January output, according to a Reuters survey. "We seem to be back to the old play: China injecting money into their system, and the S&P playing along for a risk-on trade in oil," Powerhouse executive vice president David Thompson told Reuters. Switzerland-based Transocean is an offshore drilling contractor for the oil and gas industry. Separately, Transocean has a "sell" rating and a letter grade of D+ at TheStreet Ratings because of the company's generally disappointing stock performance, weak revenue growth and expected underperformance in earnings per share growth. You can view the full analysis from the report here: RIG TheStreet Ratings objectively rated this stock according to its "risk-adjusted" total return prospect over a 12-month investment horizon. Not based on the news in any given day, the rating may differ from Jim Cramer's view or that of this article's author. RIG data by YCharts American student Otto Warmbier speaks during a press conference on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, in Pyongyang, North Korea. North Korea announced late last month that it had arrested the 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. It said that after entering the country as a tourist he conducted an anti-state crime with "the tacit connivance of the U.S. government and under its manipulation." (AP Photo/Kim Kwang Hyon) In this picture taken Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, Syrian boys are seen inside their destroyed house at neighborhood of Baba Amr in Homs, Syria. Some 1,200 rebels and civilians, many of them wounded and starving from a yearlong siege, withdrew from the last remaining strongholds in the ancient heart of Homs in May 2014, surrendering to President Bashar Assad a bloodstained city once dubbed the capital of the revolution. (AP Photo/Hassan Ammar) State police and local firefighters examine one of two vehicles involved in fatal crash on Interstate 495, just past Exit 10 in Norton, in February. Recover your password. A password will be e-mailed to you. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, who presented the much-awaited Union Budget on Monday, announced several schemes to benefit India's rural pockets and poor. He listed 'nine pillars' including tax reforms, promoting ease of doing business and ensuring fiscal discipline, that will transform India. Unveiling the Budget 2016-17, he said the pillars also include emphasis on governance reforms. The other pillars, he added, include focus on agriculture and rural areas with a view to doubling farm income by 2022. Besides, he said, government will lay greater emphasis on social sectors, education and skill building and job creation for building a knowledge based and productive economy. The government, Jaitley said, will also focus on infrastructure investment, financial sector reforms, fiscal discipline and tax reforms to reduce compliance burden. Major announcements The finance minister announced Rs 38, 500 crore for the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Gurantee Act, which is the highest ever. And he has announced another Rs 87,700 crore for rural development, promising to double the income of farmers in next five years. He has promised 100 per cent electrification of villages by May 2018, besides announcing the launch of digital literacy scheme to cover 6 crore additional rural households. And Rs 2.87 lakh crore will be given as grants-in-aid to village panchyats and municipalities to boost rural economy. Meanwhile, he said that the government will spend Rs 850 crore in a few years on animal husbandry, cattle and livestock breeding. He also earmarked Rs 9,000 crore for Prime Minister's flagship programme Swachh Bharat Abhiyan and has promised to reward villages that has succeeded in ensuring zero open defecation. Jaitley's Budget also appeals to India's poor. He has announced a new scheme of Rs 2000 crore to proivde LPG connections to the household to the BPL families. He also noted that 75 lakh families have given up their subsidised LPG connections, a PM Modi's initiative, to enable poor to have access to the clean energy. Meanwhile, he announced a sum of Rs 30,000 crore to launch a health protection scheme. And he also announced Rs 500 crore under Start-up India initiative to aid entrepreneurs from SC/ST communities. [ COMMUNICATED CONTENT] Rochester, NY is an out of town community where Middos and Limud HaTorah are the focal point. Located in Western NY between Buffalo and Syracuse, being part of our close-knit kehilla means that you are not just another face in the crowd. Additionally, our community is only a 3 hour drive from Toronto and 4.5 hours from Monsey, making it easy to visit family and friends. The cost of housing along with the quality of the neighborhood is hard to believe. You can purchase a 3 bedroom home for around $150,000 and a 4-5 bedroom home for between $200,000 and $225,000. Here is an example of a home purchased by a frum couple in the summer of 2014. A 5 bedroom home for $205,000! CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ROCHESTER, NY Our neighborhood is very clean, quiet and full of wonderful people. Career opportunities are available in a variety of fields, and we are happy to aid in job searches using our local connections and relationships with staffing agencies. Rochester has strong education and medical fields and is full of many opportunities for professionals. Rochesters Yeshiva Elementary school Derech HaTorah is anticipating openings for a half-time kindergarten Morah position and a half-time second grade Morah or Rebbe position for the 2016-2017 school year. There may be limudei chol positions available as well. If you are interested and qualified, please email your resume to [email protected] or call the school office at 585-266-2920. Whatever your stage in life, Rochester has something to offer. There are schools and Yeshivos to guide a person from preschool through Kollel, as well as many learning programs for adult men and women. Children receive personalized education from dedicated Morahs and Rabbeim who strive to help each student reach his or her potential through a variety of learning styles. Several Shuls and various Davening options for both weekdays and Shabbos, along with daily Shiurim round out the deal. Despite our size, Rochester is definitely a true Makom Torah. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE ABOUT ROCHESTER, NY If all that isnt enough to pique your interest, here is one more incentive for considering Rochester. Derech HaTorah of Rochester, our Yeshiva elementary school, is currently offering a fantastic tuition break for new students. New families pay a flat rate of $1,000 per year for ALL of their childrens tuition for their first two years in Rochester. Whether you will be sending one child or eight to DHR, your expense will still be $1,000 total. So, if you are looking to relocate your family to a community where you can make a difference, where your children will have wonderful, wholesome friends, and where Torah hashkafos guide your way of life, dont waste another day. We are waiting to welcome you. See our website www.TorahRochester.com for more details or contact Jake Dan at [email protected] or 585-330-1270 to learn more or to schedule a visit. Click HERE or on the image below to visit Torah Rochesters Android app. [COMMUNICATED CONTENT] By Dovid Grossman Rabbi Tzion Menachem, a world renowned Mekubal from Eretz Yisroel, will be arriving in New York to meet with people who are seeking guidance and assistance in numerous matters. He meets people facing all sorts of difficulties and gives them chizuk, strengthening them and thus enabling them to face challenges. Whether it is children who are off-the-derech, issues of marriage or parnassa, Rav Menachem seems to give consistent and solid direction and advice that many people understand as truly miraculous. Aside from being a Mekubal, Rav Menachem is a Rav in Elad where he has a shul and a Kollel Choshain Mishpat where his students study to be dayanim. Rav Menachem is an extraordinary Talmic Chachom as well as a great Mekubal and Tzaddik. Rav Menachem has also authored a commentary on shaar ruach hakodesh of Rav Chaim Vitals classic Kabbalistic work entitled Etz Chaim. Rav Menachem had studied under the great Kabbalistic luminaries of our generation, HaRav Yoseph Dayan ztl and HaRav Mordechai Sharabi ztl. It is said that virtually everyone who merits to see him and receives his advice, whether it has to do with medical issues, business issues, family matters or anything else is so impressed that they recommend Rav Menachem to ten friends. The following is a typical letter and experience. It was written by the son of a very famous Askan: Around two years ago my bas yechidah began experiencing discomfort with her legs. I wont go into detail but we constantly visited doctors to no avail. As time went on her condition worsened. At the end of last year her legs began buckling. This became a regular occurrence and she got used to it happening. This is when my story begins; In mid May 2015 on a Sunday when my daughter stumbled into our house crying. A heaviness had crept into her legs and by the time she got home she lost sensation in some parts and had little in the rest. I hurriedly took her to the doctor. After countless hours we knew she needed the hospital. She spent 15 hours undergoing tests with no results. There was nothing visibly wrong with her and the doctors said it was probably a one time thing. Fast forward. The next day my daughter buckled and she fell down a large ight of stairs. I knew she couldnt go on like this and hurried to another hospital. We spent a week there. In the beginning it was nerve racking knowing that my daughter might have a serious illness. But I knew that it wasnt in my hands. After the rst few days we all breathed a sigh of relief when all serious issues were ruled out, however we were still anxious about the fact that her legs were still numb and developed a numbness in her arm. At the end of a long week with no answers, we had only one more test which would be done as an outpatient. My daughter left the hospital in a wheelchair. Thats when my father-in-law called me to ask for my daughters full name. About a half hour after we came home my father-in-law called me again. He had spoken to Rav Tzion Menachem shlita, a Rav and Rosh Kollel from Elad, a city in Eretz Yisroel. He told us that we had closed a window in our home 2 years ago and that is what caused all the problems. With shock we recalled that most certainly we had left a hole in the wall but we had stuccoed on our home two years ago and sure enough the hole which once was, was no longer. With bated breath I quickly called someone down to drill a hole in my wall. Unbelievably very soon after the hole was drilled my daughter started gasping and crying as the sensation began returning to her legs. With tears streaming down our faces I together with my family watched her stand up and walk on her own. The gratitude and feelings of shevach vhodaah to Hakadosh Baruch Hu for sending us such a shaliach are indescribable. Rabbi Tzion Menachem Shlita will be available in New York between February 28th and March 9th. For an appointment please call: 347 585 1846. Isaac Yedid Esq. & Raymond Zeitoune Esq. A common assumption is that if you enter a nursing home, Medicaid will immediately take your house to pay for your care. In reality, that is not exactly true. Below are three common scenarios: 1) If you are married, your spouse is always allowed to stay in the house as long as he or she lives. However, after both spouses die, certain States will sometimes put a lien on the home. If that happens, the State will make a claim for the amount they have paid out in Medicaid benefits. This claim would then usually be paid from the proceeds of the house sale after both spouses have passed away. With proper legal planning, this can sometimes be avoided. 2) If your spouse dies while you are still living in the nursing home, Medicaid may demand that you sell the home and use the proceeds for your nursing home costs. Again, depending on the circumstances, you can sometimes preserve the family home. Each situation is different. For example, if a son or daughter is living in the home and provided two years of care to the nursing home resident, this child can sometimes be given the home as a gift to avoid a forced sale by Medicaid. This is usually referred to as the child caretaker exception. Unfortunately, the Medicaid caseworker will not always let you know about this rule. Another exception is if you have a permanently disabled child. In that situation, the home can usually be given to that child, without adverse Medicaid consequences. 3) If you enter a nursing home and do not have a spouse living in the home, Medicaid will allow you to keep the house for approximately one year. After approximately one year, you must list the home for sale, unless one of the exceptions, such as the child caretaker rule applies. When the home sells, the proceeds must generally be used for your nursing home care. If you die before selling the home, the State will usually put a lien on the home. If that happens, the State will make a claim for the amount they have paid out in Medicaid benefits. The good news however, is that through proper legal planning, you can sometimes preserve the entire value of the home for future generations. Even in cases where Medicaid demands that you sell the home, there are often ways to preserve a portion of the sale proceeds for your family. Attorneys who specialize in Medicaid planning are constantly contacted by concerned loved ones and family members wondering when is the right time to prepare for Medicaid planning. The answer is that it is never too early or too late to discuss the planning options available. Below is one example of the many types of calls attorneys receive every day where attorneys advise clients that Medicaid planning is an option right now. SCENARIO: Mrs. Cohen is an 81-year-old widow experiencing short-term memory loss. She is still able to live alone in her own home. Her income is $750 a month; she has a home worth $735,000 and other assets of approximately $60,000. She heard from a friend that she should give away all her assets now to her kids just in case she would ever need to go to a nursing home. Her friend told her that so long as she gives everything away more than five years before moving to nursing home, shell be able to qualify for Medicaid without having to spend down any of her assets. Unfortunately, there are many problems with the advice Mrs. Cohens friend gave her. First, Mrs. Cohen may need nursing home care in less than five years. Due to this large transfer being made within the five year look back period, she will now be ineligible for Medicaid and will have no funds to pay for her own care. Once the money and house are transferred to her children, those assets actually belong to the children no strings attached. Even if the children are trustworthy, and would be willing to give the money back if Mrs. Cohen needed nursing home care, once the assets are in their names, the assets are subject to their creditors. One of the children could be sued or go through a divorce. Since the assets are in the childrens names, a lawsuit, tax problems, or a divorce could easily wipe out moms life savings, as well as leave her without her home. Also, keep in mind that Mrs. Cohen may never need nursing home care. Rather, she may need to make a move to an assisted living facility. Medicaid does not always cover the cost of care in an assisted living facility. Therefore, its important that Mrs. Cohen hang on to her assets while shes still relatively healthy so she can have the freedom and independence to pay for the level of care she needs when she needs it. In this scenario, we would advise Mrs. Cohen to get the proper estate planning documents in place so her children could act on her behalf in the event of incapacity, and to avoid probate in the event of her death. Depending on the family dynamics and Mrs. Cohens prognosis, we may advise some type of gift trust planning. Each situation is unique, so you should consult with a qualified elder law/trusts & estates attorney to go over your best options. The attorney will advise you on the best options available to you which will allow you to use Medicaid to cover the cost of medical care without depleting assets. In addition, planning in advance is a good option because the penalty period will likely expire before you may need to be admitted to a nursing home. Medicaid planning allows you to protect your familys assets from being used to pay for your medical and nursing home care by justifying the need to receive Medicaid in the future to cover those expenses. The attorneys at Yedid & Zeitoune, PLLC have a combined 20 years of legal experience at top New York City law firms and are ready to assist you in all your legal needs. Let us help you prepare for you and your familys future. May we all only know of happiness amen! The attorneys in the Trust & Estates Practice Group at Yedid & Zeitoune have a combined 20 years of legal experience and are ready to assist you with all your estate planning needs. Isaac Yedid, Esq. and Raymond Zeitoune, Esq. Yedid & Zeitoune, PLLC 1172 Coney Island Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11230 Phone: (347) 461-9800 Fax: (718) 421-1695 Email: [email protected] NYC Office By Appointment Only: 152 Madison Avenue, Suite 1105 New York, New York 10016 A number of religious IDF soldiers, known as beinishim ( bnei yeshivot) have been instructed by commanders to shave after an officer in the adjutancy decided they do not look the way he feels the army should appear. It was explained to some that Even the IDF Chief Rabbi is clean shaven, to which a father, Eliyahu Chen responded this is irrelevant. Mr. Chen spoke with Kol Chai Radio on Sunday morning 19 Adar-I explaining he served in the military for 25 years, always with a beard as a member of the dati leumi community. He questions What motivation will my son have to serve and fight after this. What angers me is they are not doing anything to the chareidi soldiers so why my son and others in the dati leumi tzibur? Mr. Chen explained he has learned that an officer in the adjutancy feels the bearded soldiers look like Hamas and therefore objects to signing off on their beards. To date, a soldier entering the army declares he is shomer Shabbos and the rabbi of his unit would sign off on the form along with a commander and he was not required to shave. Since January 2016 the regulation changed, requiring a signature from a colonel in the adjutancy in addition to a unit rabbi and officer. Eliyahu explains the rabbi and officer signed off for his son, who has been serving with a beard, and now, suddenly, he was instructed that upon returning Sunday from Shabbos at home to be clean shaven. He will not however, preferring to go to jail. Eliyahu added he voted for Bennett (Bayit Yehudi) in the last elections and it appears this does not help. He feels the chareidi soldiers are not being bothered for military officials fear the wrath of the chareidi parties so they are limiting their new policy to dati leumi soldiers. Eliyahu calls on all IDF Rabbinate officers and soldiers serving in the unit to please step down from their positions, including IDF Chief Rabbi Brig.-Gen. Rafi Peretz, for clearly they are not doing their jobs. Kol Chai added that only two requests to keep a beard among 36 were approved by the adjutancy officer. The overwhelming number of these requests were for religious reasons. (YWN Israel Desk, Jerusalem) Cabinet ministers from Likud have recently suggested that one of the measures that may be taken to deter future terror attacks is the deportation of the families of terrorists. According to a Galei Tzahal (Army Radio) report, this idea was rejected recently by Attorney General Dr. Avichai Mandelblit, who stated the concept is contrary to Israeli and international law and therefore, it is not being considered. The idea was supported by ministers, however Mandelblit says it does not hold water legally and therefore, not being considered. The matter was raised by the ministers amid a growing feeling that razing the homes of the terrorists is not serving as a deterrent, especially since it has been learned the PA (Palestinian Authority) and Iran offer the families of the terrorists monthly compensation and vow to rebuild their homes if razed by Israel. (YWN Israel Desk, Jerusalem) Har Habayis activist Rabbi Yehuda Glick was cleared of all charged in a criminal case against him for allegedly assaulting an Arab on Har Habayis. This story begins about 18 months ago, when Glick was on Har Habayis and allegedly fractured the arm of a woman who was shouting at the Jewish group. The woman, Zivya Badrana, during her testimony in court explained she is not a member of the Mourabitat women and has no connection to extremist Islam. However, the court learned her testimony was false, based on evidence from a PA (Palestinian Authority) television and radio broadcasts in which she was heard speaking out harshly against Jews and called to Remove the Zionists from al-Aqsa. After it was proven her testimony was false, she retracted her statements and case against Glick was dropped and the court order barring him from visiting Har Habayis was canceled. Gedolei Yisrael over the generations and the Chief Rabbinate of Israel prohibit visiting Har Habayis. (YWN Israel Desk, Jerusalem) Rabbi David Stav Shlita of Tzohar Rabbonim has sent letters to Attorney General Avichai Mandelblit, the state prosecutor and Police Commissioner Roni Alsheich, calling for a criminal investigation and charges against persons in the Haifa Religious Council, charging them with filing false official documents in their ongoing battle and opposition to Tzohar Rabbonim. Rabbi Stav explains that many couples who approached the Haifa Rabbinate to get married and were in contact with Tzohar Rabbonim learned they are listed as pasul and unfit to get married, some listed a being converts, others married already and other categories that disqualify them from marrying. Rabbi Stav explains these civil service employees filed false legal documents, using these young people, all eligible to marry according to halacha, in the Rabbanuts battle against Tzohar Rabbonim. According to officials of the Tzohar Rabbonim organization, a number of couples who registered with their organization have been rejected when they approached the Haifa Religious Council to register their upcoming wedding. One young man told reporters he was told you are a convert and are married already and therefore disqualified from marrying. He explains he is born to a Jewish mother and was never married, unable to explain the allegations from officials in the Haifa Religious Council. Another candidate, Avinadav Birman was told you are a widower, a kohen and married via civil marriage. Avinadav tells the press all three allegations are untrue, that he was never married and is a levi, not a kohen. Orli Nitiz explains they told her she is a widow and a convert, both untrue, and once again, she is registered with Tzohar Rabbonim. In a recorded phone call we hear her asking why she is listed as she is, and was told it is because she is registered with Tzohar. The official admits she did nothing wrong and the situation would be corrected. Orli explains this is between you and Tzohar, not me, to which the person admits she will be able to marry. The head of the marriage unit in the Haifa Council, Rabbi Yeshayahu Samutani told Channel 2 News correspondent Yair Shariki that the actions of the clerk who did this to these couples is not acceptable, apology to all of the people involved, admitting there is a dispute between the Rabbinate and Tzohar. According to the report, the matter pertains to more than a few couples, but no less than 100 people, most still waiting to hear back from the council. From Tzohars perspective, the couples will marry on time as they hoped would be the case and it pursues its legal case against the Rabbanut. Rabbi Stav is demanding a criminal investigation, the firing of the guilty parties as well as filing criminal charges against those involved. (YWN Israel Desk, Jerusalem) An IDF female vegan soldier was sent to jail for refusing to wear a helmet that had a leather strap. She was sent to a sentry post which requires wearing a helmet, but she refused to put it on, asking for a helmet without a leather strap. The soldier, a private, is serving on a medical corps base in northern Israel. She was sentenced to three days probation, which means if she repeats the same offense she will automatically be sent to jail for three days. The soldier explains the IDF has designed a helmet that meets the needs of vegans and she is entitled to one, a helmet without leather straps. Her officer told her to use the leather helmet by tearing out all of the leather, which she feels is a ridiculous solution. The soldier appealed the verdict based on the fact the IDF recognizes her right to a helmet that meets the need of her lifestyle. She adds that tearing out the leather straps would have made her guilty of intentionally vandalizing military property, which she is unwilling to do. She also maintains that since she is entitled to the non-leather helmet, the punishment meted out to her is extreme and unjustifiable. She further maintains that if a religious soldier receives non-kosher food, he can immediate complain to the IDF Rabbinate which will act to punish those responsible. The soldier told Ynet there are currently hundreds or perhaps thousands of soldiers in the IDF who are vegan and vegetarian and the IDF is compelled to meet their needs just as it does other groups as per IDF regulations. She states in the past year there have been many complaints from soldiers who feel the military is not meeting their needs. The IDF Spokesman explains the soldier was offered an alternative, a helmet that meets the need of her beliefs. She was punished for not obeying orders, pointing out that IDF regulations compel any soldier on guard duty to wear a helmet for their own personal safety. (YWN Israel Desk, Jerusalem) An Army staff sergeant assigned to the Pentagon was arrested on murder and other charges in the death of a police officer and another person, authorities said Sunday. Ronald Williams Hamilton, 32, is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer. He is accused of shooting and killing Officer Ashley Guindon after she answered a domestic violence call at the Hamilton home Saturday evening. Two other officers were hospitalized with injuries. Hamilton is an active duty Army staff sergeant assigned to the Joint Staff Support Center at the Pentagon, according to Cindy Your, a Defense Information Systems Agency spokeswoman based at Fort Meade, Maryland. Guindon, 28, had gone through training with the department last year before leaving for personal reasons. She rejoined the department this year and Saturday was her first day on patrol, according to Police Chief Stephan Hudson. We were struck by her passion to do this job, Hudson said at a news conference Sunday. She did share with us when we rehired her that she felt like she wanted to do this job. She couldnt get it out of her blood. She clearly had a passion to serve others in a way that went beyond herself. Guindon was a former Marine Corps reservist and had a masters degree in forensic science, according to Hudson. She held a bachelors degree in aeronautics with minors in psychology, homeland security and aviation safety from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, the school said. A picture of Guindon was posted to the departments Twitter page on Friday with a tweet that read, Welcome Officers Steven Kendall & Ashley Guindon who were sworn in today & begin their shifts this weekend. Be Safe! The shooting occurred Saturday evening at Hamiltons home in Woodbridge. Hudson said Hamilton and his wife, Crystal, were arguing and she called 911. Crystal Hamilton, 29, was fatally shot by her husband before police arrived, Hudson said. The officers were shot shortly after their arrival, and when additional officers arrived, Hamilton surrendered and came out the front door of the house. Police said their 11-year-old son was at home at the time of the shootings. He is now being cared for by relatives. Police recovered two guns from the scene: a handgun and a rifle. The injured officers were identified as Jesse Hempen, 31, an eight-year veteran of department; and David McKeown, 33, a 10-year veteran. They are expected to recover, Hudson said. Details about their injuries were not released. The death of Guindon was just the latest tragedy to strike the family. Her father, David, committed suicide the day after he returned home from Iraq, where he served with the New Hampshire Air National Guard. He was buried with full military honors on Aug. 26, 2004. He came home and took his own life, said Dorothy Guindon, Ashleys grandmother. Ashley was his only child. She was born in Springfield, Massachusetts. The family later moved to Merrimack, New Hampshire, according to her grandmother. This is really a shock to us, Dorothy Guindon said. Ashley was such a nice person. A 2005 graduate of Merrimack High School, Ashley was remembered in a letter to the school board and staff by the school principal, Kenneth Johnson. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time. We will have a moment of silence for her on Monday, and we will remember her on graduation day as well, he wrote. Officer Brandon Carpenter at the countys adult detention center says Hamilton is being held without bond at the jail on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer, first-degree murder charge, two counts of malicious assault and two counts of use of a firearm during a felony. Hamilton is scheduled to be arraigned Monday morning. At Inova Fairfax Hospital, where the three officers were flown by helicopter after the shooting, more than 100 patrol cars lined the roads outside early Sunday morning to stand vigil and escort Guindons body to the medical examiner. The shooting occurred in the Lake Ridge neighborhood, on a curving street with $500,000 suburban houses with brick and siding exteriors, manicured lawns and two-car garages about a five-minute drive from the county office building. (AP) [By Rabbi Yair Hoffman for the Five Towns Jewish Times] The city of Golden, Colorado is a friendly place. For example, it is the home of both the Coors beer plant as well as the prestigious, Colorado School of Mines. Each St. Patricks Day, Coors pipes in green colored beer to the college students at no charge. Thats friendly. It is also the birthplace of the product known as Jolly Rancher candies, named to connote the friendly nature of the people of Golden, Colorado. The product has since passed through several hands and is now owned by the Hershey Company. The candies are no longer produced in or near Golden, Colorado, and the kosher-labelling aspect of these candies is now no longer so friendly. Indeed, the kosher-labelling aspect of the 9.1 ounce package of Snack Size Jolly Rancher Bites and Twizzlers Bites is causing enormous controversy in Brooklyn and in other Jewish neighborhoods. How so? Well, it has caused great confusion among consumers. The 9.1 ounce package actually contains three varieties of candies: One non-kosher Jolly Rancher Bites Filled GummiesWatermelon, Green Apple and Cherry (.7 ounce size) together with two OU-certified varieties, Twizzlers Bites Mixed Berry and Jolly Rancher Bites Soft Chews. That first variety, Filled Gummies contain non-kosher gelatin. There is no false labeling happening here. The outer packaging bears a warning label that states, Package contains kosher and non-kosher items. The controversy lay in the fact that, after all is said and done, thousands of kosher consumers erroneously purchase the product and feed tarfus to their children. Why do some consumers erroneously purchase the 9.1 ounce package? It is because the outer packaging bears two small tiny OU symbols directly after the ingredients are listed. The non-kosher Jolly Rancher Bites do not bear that tiny OU. People are trained to just quickly look for any OU, and then they deem the entirety of the product kosher. The OU has thus far allowed this type of packaging because (1) the OU symbols that appear on the outer package clearly show that they appear only for the specific sub-item in the package. They are listed only after the ingredients and (2), there is a clear disclaimer on the outer package that there are non-kosher items in that package. THE OUS RESPONSE This author has reached out to Rabbi Menachem Genack, the head of the Orthodox Union who responded that he is reviewing the policy with the hope of changing it. He also explained, I understand that it can be confusing and therefore we should move in a direction to eliminate this kind of situation. IS THIS LIFNEI IVER? It is this authors view that there is no prohibition of Lifnei Iver (placing a stumbling block before the blind) here, but that, in general, if a Kashrus agency places a kashrus symbol on an item that is non-kosher it can be a violation of Lifnei Iver. THE CONTRADICTION IN LIFNEI IVER AND THE THREE RESOLUTIONS In order to understand why some cases are or are not actual Lifnei Iver, we must first understand an apparent contradiction in the Talmudic sources that concern this prohibition, and the three methods in the Poskim that are used to resolve the contradiction. The contradiction is between the Gemorah in Nedarim (62b) versus the Gemorah in Bava Metziah (5b) THE FIRST SOURCE The Talmud (Nedarim 62b) tells us that Rav Ashi had an Avah, a forest, and he sold it to a fire-temple. When he was asked about the prohibition of Lifnei Iver he responded that most of the wood would be used for ordinary heating and not idol-worship. The Ran explains that whenever it is possible to assume a permitted purpose, (Teliya), we do so. This is the authoritative Halachic view. [The TaZ rules like this Ran in beginning of YD 151, as does Rav Ovadiah Yoseph in Yechave Daas Vol. I 10. It is interesting to note that Rav Yitzchok Elchonon Spector (Ain Yitzchok OC #13) writes that since it was almost definite that the fire-temple would use the wood for idol-worship Rav Ashi required a majority of most wood being used for heating in order to permit it.] We also find a similar Mishna in Shviis where there is a debate between the Bais Shammai and Bais Hillel regarding the permissibility of selling a cow for plowing immediately before the onset of the Sabbatical year to someone of whom it is suspected will plow with the cow during the Sabbatical year. Bais Shammai forbids the sale, while Bais Hillel permits it based upon the fact that the purchaser might use the cow for slaughtering purposes. The implication of the Nedarim Gemorah is that Lifnei Iver is, in a certain perspective, more lenient than other Biblical prohibitions since, generally speaking, if there exists any doubt in it, there is no violation. This is how it is viewed in the Responsa Chsam Sopher YD #9 and in the Liflagos Reuvain as cited by Rav Waldenberg ztl in his Tzitz Eliezer Vol.IV 5:3. THE SECOND SOURCE On the other hand, there is an enlightening passage in the Talmud (Bava Metziah 5b) concerning shepherds. It seems that shepherds have a tendency to allow their own flock to pasture on land that is not their own. This is true regarding ones own flock, but not regarding shepherds that watch someone elses flock. There is a Talmudic principle that a person will only sin for his own possessions, but he will not sin for another. Were it not for this principle it would have been forbidden to give ones sheep to a shepherd because of his propensity to steal. Clearly, whenever there exists a very strong likelihood that a law will be violated, the issue of Lifnei Iver exists as well. The Talmud further states (Bava Metziah 75b): Rabbi Yehudah said in the name of Rav: Whoever has money and loans it without witnesses is in violation of Lifnei Iver. The Shulchan Aruch (CM 70:1) codifies this as Lifnei Iver. This Gemorah shows that whenever there is a strong likelihood of a violation there is a prohibition of Lifnei Iver. This lies in apparent contradiction to the notion of assuming a permitted purpose that was implied in the first Gemorah! RESOLVING THE CONTRADICTION There are three different methods cited in the Poskim in which this contradiction can be resolved. This is an important issue as there are many Halachic differences depending upon which approach is taken. It may also delineate when and whether a hechsher is a violation of Lifnei Iver. FIRST APPROACH Some authorities understand the distinction as follows: If the action that is being performed will directly lead to a violation on the part of the recipient, and without him the recipient would not have had the desire to violate the Halacha, then it is a violation of Lifnei Iver. This was the approach to resolve the contradiction that was given to me by Rav Dovid Feinstein Shlita, slightly before I published my Sefer on Lifnei Iver. It is also the second approach of the Tzitz Eliezer Volume IV Section5:3. This may be alternately expressed as follows: In a case of non-certain violation there is a prohibition of Lifnei Iver only when the person created the opportunity for the sin. If he did not create the opportunity, then it is permitted. SECOND APPROACH Others approach this contradiction by understanding the prohibition of loaning money without witnesses as only a Rabbinically prohibited form of Lifnei Iver. The wording of the Talmud, however, does not strongly support this approach. This is the first approach of the Tzitz Eliezer in Volume IV section 5:3. THIRD APPROACH The third approach is that whenever there is a greater probability of a violation than a non- violation then we do not assume a permitted purpose. The earlier cases cited were only permitted because each of them had a greater probability of a permitted purpose than a prohibited purpose. According to this third approach, whenever the possibility of violation is greater than non-violation, we must assume that there is a biblical prohibition of Lifnei Iver. If we are unable to determine whether the possibility of violation is greater, then we must be stringent. The proponent of this third approach is the HaGaos Tosfos Anshei Shaim (Mishnayos Shviis 5:7). This approach disagrees with the aforementioned TaZ in the beginning of YD 151. The case of Rav Ashi would have to be understood as Rabbi Yitzchok Elchonon Spector writes (Ain Yitzchok OC 13) that Rav Ashi required a majority of most wood being used for heating in order to permit it. In other words, one would have to examine each piece of wood individually rather than looking at the forest as a whole. CONCLUSIONS The three different methods of resolving the contradiction are crucial in determining whether it is permitted to make an assumption of a permitted use when embarking upon any item that could be Lifnei Iver. In this case, the permitted use would mean that the consumer will give the non-kosher candy away to a gentile. This assumption of a permitted use is called in Hebrew Tlia. Many authorities have written that one is only permitted to make use of the assumption of Tlia when it is absolutely necessary. For example, if one needs to make the assumption in order to provide himself with his livelihood. One is permitted to sell an item that has both permitted and non-permitted uses. One may assume a permitted use even when it is a case of Trei Ivra DeNahara. One may assume a permitted use even when the prohibition involved is biblical. It is this authors view that although allowing this type of placement of the OU on the package is not Lifnei Iver it is certainly not a good idea because, at the end of the day, people are purchasing it. It seems, however, that the OU is determined to change the policy that had allowed it until now. In addition to this consumer alert, the author would like to thank the wonderful people at the Orthodox Union whose hard work and dedication to Kashrus allows us to enjoy hundreds of thousands of the most remarkable products. It is hoped that the efforts of the OU in this area as well as their remarkable role in Kashrus halacha will be appreciated by the kashrus observing public. The author can be reached at [email protected] U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Monday that a shaky cease-fire in Syria is holding by and large despite sporadic fighting that continued across Syria and growing accusations of violations that threatened to derail the truce, now in its third day. A war of words between the Syrian government and Saudi Arabia, a key backer of the Syrian opposition, added to the rising tensions. The Syrian Foreign Ministry said recent statements by Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir were lies meant to boost the morale of militants who have suffered setbacks in Syria in recent weeks and demonstrate the kingdoms destructive role in Syria. Mondays statement came a day after al-Jubeir reiterated Saudi Arabias longstanding position that Syrian President Bashar Assad has no place in the future of Syria and that he must leave power, either peacefully or through military means. Al-Jubeir also accused Syrian forces of violating the cease-fire. Speaking to reporters Monday in Geneva, Ban confirmed receiving a letter from the High Negotiations Committee, the main umbrella opposition group, complaining of continuing violations by the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian backers. The letter sent Sunday urged the U.N. to help specify the territory covered by the truce to prevent hostilities in the designated inclusion zones. The Russia-U.S.-brokered cease-fire that went into effect at midnight Friday excludes the Islamic State group as well as al-Qaidas branch in Syria, the Nusra Front. The cease-fire has significantly reduced violence across the war-ravaged country, bringing some respite to civilians particularly from airstrikes. But accusations of breaches by both sides threaten to torpedo the deal, which aims at bringing back the Syrian government and the opposition to peace talks in Geneva next week. Ban told reporters he wanted the cease-fire extended beyond the initial planned duration of two weeks. The U.N. also said it plans to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance to about 154,000 people living in besieged locations inside Syria over the next five days. A briefing note sent out by OCHA Monday said the assistance will include food, water and sanitation supplies, as well as non-food items and medicine to people trapped in besieged areas. Aid deliveries are a main opposition demand ahead of the planned resumption of Syrian peace talks in Geneva on March 7. An attempt to start indirect peace talks between the sides collapsed earlier this month over escalating violence in the country, including a massive Russian-backed government offensive in Aleppo. An official with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent said dozens of trucks carrying aid started entering a besieged rebel-held suburb of the Syrian capital, Damascus, for the first time since the truce went into effect. Muhannad al-Assadi told The Associated Press that the 51 trucks are carrying domestic supplies such as blankets, soap and diapers. He said it is the third aid convoy that has been allowed to enter the suburb of Moadamiyeh in recent weeks. Fighting in Aleppo continued Monday. Lebanons militant Hezbollah group said it had recovered the body of a senior commander, Ali Fayyad, who was killed during fighting in the region. The Shiite group who fights alongside Assads forces in Syria said body of the commander, locally known as Haj Alaa, was recovered Sunday night in an operation in which Syrian army and Hezbollah special forces took part. Fayyad is a Hezbollah veteran who has led major battles against the Israeli army in south Lebanon. Lebanese media say he was among four Hezbollah fighters killed in Aleppo last week. The opposition on Sunday reported air raids on several parts of northern Syria and warned that continued violations would jeopardize the planned resumption of U.N.-brokered peace talks. Riad Hijab, who heads the HNC, a Saudi-backed opposition group, said in the statement directed to Ban that Russian, Iranian and government forces have not stopped hostilities since the truce went into effect. Hijab said there had been 24 cases of shelling and five cases of ground attacks. He added that Russian warplanes carried out 26 airstrikes on Sunday alone targeting rebels that are abiding by the truce. The French foreign minister called for a meeting without delay of a task force to monitor a cessation of hostilities in Syria following reports of air strikes targeting the moderate opposition. Jean-Marc Ayrault made the comments Monday shortly before addressing a meeting of the Human Rights Council in Geneva. U.N. special envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura has already been planning a meeting of the task force, led by the United States and Russia, later in the day. Ayrault told reporters he planned to discuss the attacks including by air with de Mistura and Ban. Critics say Russia and Syrian forces have been targeting the moderate opposition. (PA) Rockaway Beach, Queens Today I join our brave NYPD officers of the 100th Precinct and families across Rockaway in sadness and disbelief over the events of the last 24 hours. Last night, a hit-and-run traffic accident took the life of twenty-five year old Police Officer Vincent Harrison. This senseless and deplorable act robbed our community of a bright young officer who, in his short career, dedicated himself to making our community a better place. I extend my deepest condolences to his family and ask that the driver who killed him be swiftly brought to justice. While we mourn the loss of Officer Harrison, our thoughts and prayers also turn to 100th Precinct Executive Officer, Captain Matthew Hanrahan as he recovers from a cardiac arrest. These twin tragedies encourage us to remember the quiet, fragile humanity of the men and women in blue who put their lives on the line every day to keep us safe. I wish Captain Hanrahan a full recovery and speedy return to the force. (YWN Desk NYC) As Bernie Sanders headed toward victory in New Hampshire, pundits noted the barrier he was about to break: Sanders would become the first Jewish candidate to win a major party presidential primary. But since that Feb. 9 win, instead of the burst of communal pride that usually accompanies such milestones, the response from American Jews has been muted. One reason: The Vermont senator, the candidate who has come closer than any other Jew to being a major party presidential nominee, has mostly avoided discussing his Judaism. Sanders has baffled Jews by refusing to name the Israeli kibbutz where he briefly volunteered in the 1960s, sending reporters scrambling to solve the mystery. When they found the kibbutz, he wouldnt comment. In New Hampshire after his breakout win, he described himself as the son of a Polish immigrant, not a Jewish one. At a Democratic debate, he spoke of the historic nature of somebody with my background seeking the presidency, but didnt use the word Jewish. A recent headline in the liberal Jewish Daily Forward newspaper read, We Need To Out Bernie Sanders as a Jew For His Own Good. Rabbi James Glazier of Temple Sinai n South Burlington, Vermont, said Sanders comments were being discussed by rabbis in the liberal Reform movement. What did he leave out there? He didnt say Jewish Polish immigrant. Reform rabbis have picked up on this big time. Sanders lack of religious observance is not what rankles. It has become so common for Jews to identify culturally instead of religiously with the faith that the Pew Research Center, in its most recent study of the American Jewish population, used a category called Jews of no religion. Michael Bloomberg, the former New York mayor, also was not religious, but he was embraced for his unwavering support of Israel and his generous donations to Jewish causes. Louis Brandeis, who in 1916 became the first Jewish justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, did not practice his faith, yet was the pride of American Jews. Brandeis went on to become a leading U.S. advocate for Zionism. But Sanders, during more than three decades in public life as a mayor, congressman and U.S. senator, has developed few relationships with Jewish groups or leaders on religious issues or on Israel. He has supported a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but has not made Israel in any way a priority. I would say that he has never been one of those in Congress who was active in a Jewish caucus, who turned out for Israel, who was involved in those issues and he still isnt, said Jonathan Sarna, an expert in American Jewish history at Brandeis University. Ironically, when Sanders gave his most religiously focused campaign speech, he underscored his distance from Judaism. It was last fall at Liberty University, the evangelical school founded by the Rev. Jerry Falwell in Lynchburg, Virginia, and he addressed the school on Rosh Hashana, or the Jewish New Year, one of the most important holidays of the year. Discussing his beliefs in the speech, he said he was motivated by a vision for social justice which exists in all of the great religions. But Sanders didnt say he was Jewish. Later, he stopped in at a Rosh Hashana gathering at the home of the Lynchburg mayor. The Sanders campaign did not respond to repeated requests for comment for this article. Stanley Huck Gutman, former chief of staff in Sanders Senate office, wrote in an email, He is an old friend, a close friend but we have very seldom, if ever, discussed religion. Sanders life follows a familiar arc in 20th century American Jewish experience: The son of an immigrant, he grew up in the shadow of the Holocaust, which Sanders has said wiped out much of his fathers family. As a child in Brooklyn, Sanders went to Hebrew school and had a bar mitzvah, but the lessons he drew from the teachings seem closer to a golden rule morality than specifically Jewish. In the presidential race, he often sums up his religious views with the phrase, We are in this together. Being Jewish is very important to us, his brother, Larry, said in an interview in England where he lives. There was no problem of debate, it was just a given in our lives, just as being Americans was a given in our lives. But Bernard is not particularly religious. He doesnt go to synagogue often. I think he probably goes to synagogue only for weddings and funerals, rather than to pray. Like many young American Jews in the 1960s, Sanders worked on a kibbutz, which news organizations discovered to be Shaar Haamakim in northern Israel. Irit Drori, who now lives on the kibbutz, said no one there remembers the presidential candidate and self-described democratic socialist. It was a socialist kibbutz, Drori said. If Mr. Sanders was interested in socialism, he could find people to talk about it with here. After moving to Vermont in the late 1960s, he eventually began his political career. But setting down roots did not mean joining a synagogue, though he sometimes would visit them. Glazier said Sanders had been to Temple Sinai once for a candidates event. The Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic community in Burlington said Sanders, as mayor, helped them overcome opposition to erecting a Hanukkah menorah on public land. In 1988, he married his second wife, Jane, who was raised Roman Catholic, just as the national intermarriage rate was climbing so high that Jewish leaders began calling it a crisis. In Vermont, where nearly 40 percent of residents say they have no particular religion, Sanders was rarely called on to discuss his faith. However, in the last couple of years, he has been facing increasing challenges about his support for Israel. In a widely viewed video of a 2014 Vermont town hall event, after the war started between Israel and Hamas, the Islamic militant group that controls Gaza, some voters demanded Sanders do more to protest Israeli bombing. The war killed more than 2,200 Palestinians in Gaza, including hundreds of civilians, and 73 people on the Israeli side. Sanders was among a small number of senators who didnt co-sponsor a resolution supporting Israel in the conflict, which passed by voice vote. Sanders said Israel overreacted with the intensity of its attacks, and he called the bombing of U.N. schools terribly, terribly wrong. But he also criticized Hamas for launching rockets into Israel. Israel has said Hamas is responsible for civilian casualties, since it carried out numerous attacks from residential areas in Gaza. I believe in a two-state solution, where Israel has the right to exist in security at the same time the Palestinians have a state of their own, Sanders said. Last year, Sanders was the first of several senators to announce they would skip Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus address to Congress since President Barack Obama wasnt consulted and the speech was so close to the Israeli elections, giving the appearance the U.S. was trying to influence the outcome, he said. As a presidential candidate, Sanders said he consulted the dovish pro-Israel lobby J Street and the Arab American Institute, founded by Jim Zogby, on Mideast Policy. Thats not exactly a balanced view of the region, said Malcolm Hoenlein, the executive vice chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, which has not accepted J Street as a member. I hope he has other advisers or will take other advisers. Hes never really been that identified that strongly with pro-Israel advocacy. While Jews mull the source of Sanders reticence about discussing his Jewish roots, they are relieved that a Jewish candidate can run without prompting an outpouring of anti-Semitism. Still, they worry that could change if he succeeds in the primaries ahead. Sarna said the candidates religious identity is clear even if he doesnt talk about it, and therefore his success in the election should be considered a landmark moment for Jews. I think it is very much a statement about America that someone who everybody knows is of Jewish background and has a Jewish name and sounds Jewish from Brooklyn can get several delegates, Sarna said. There is a sense that only in America could a Bernie Sanders be a candidate. (AP) Over the past two years, Rambam Health Care Campus has been taking in an increasing number of Gazan children who suffer from severe kidney disease for treatment in Israel. The hospital has placed a high priority on programs promoting coexistence and human rights through their cross-border, medical cooperation. The hospital decided to take the initiative even further. Earlier this month, a group of Gazan doctors arrived in Haifa for training in the advanced techniques. The goal is to empower the Gazan doctors, allowing them continue to care for the young patients when they return home. At the Center for Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation in Northern Israels largest hospital, not only are Palestinian children receiving advanced medical care, but a group of physicians came earlier this month to Rambam to learn how to care for these young patients when they get home. The Center for Israeli-Palestinian Cooperation was established as part of the vision of American philanthropist Sandy Weill, that sharing advanced medical knowledge and services can advance the cause of regional peace. Three nephrologists from Gaza hospitals recently spent several days as guests at Rambam Hospital. The doctors, who hold senior positions in Gaza hospitals, specialize in kidney failure in children and adults, came to Rambam to learn about new technologies and treatments. Over the past two years, since the center was established, Rambam has been taking in an increasing number of children from Gaza who suffer from severe kidney disease, and cannot receive adequate treatment at home. At this point, Rambam has become the preferred hospital for the Palestinian Authority to refer children with kidney disease. The invitation to host the physicians from Gaza came was the initiative of Dr. Daniella Magen, Director of the Pediatric Nephrology Department at Ruth Rappaport Childrens Hospital. Opening this professional dialogue, she felt, would improve the care the Palestinian patients would receive upon their return to Gaza. The visit, which lasted three days, included meetings with the departments medical and nursing teams, as well as a meeting with Dr. Ran Steinberg, Director of Pediatric Surgery, who has conducted numerous kidney transplants on children from Gaza. The guests also met with Prof. Karl Skorecki, a renowned researcher in the field of nephrology and the genetic factors underlying kidney diseases. In the department, the visiting physicians were introduced to technologies for pediatric dialysis, and received training that could be applied for follow up care. The encounter between the visiting physicians and their patients, some of whom have spent weeks in Israel, was a highlight of the visit. The doctors were surprised to see that the Israeli and Palestinian children were hospitalized together. Two years ago, when we opened the Ruth Rappaport Childrens Hospital, we also inaugurated the Center for Israeli and Palestinian Cooperation, explained Prof. Rafi Beyar, Director of Rambam Health Care Campus. It was established as part of the very generous gift from our esteemed friend Sandy Weill, who also supported the establishment of the Pediatric Oncology Department. The professional encounter of the kind we just shared with the physicians from Gaza represents the realization of Sandy Weills vision. (YWN Israel Desk, Jerusalem) [COMMUNICATED CONTENT] IsraelHotelDeals.com is a travel website that helps you find the best deals and lowest prices on hotels, apartments and airport transfers in Israel. 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For additional dates please check at israelhoteldeals.com. The pace of change on the High Street is startling. Amazon has been looking for an entrance into the British grocery market for some time. Now it has it through an alliance with Morrisons. The Bradford-based group may be the weakest of Britains big four supermarkets, but through its deals with Ocado and Amazon it has taken a leap forward which will give shareholders new hope after some sterile years. Amazon has shown an ability to disrupt traditional markets and make them its own through superior logistics and robotics. David Potts, one of the Tesco refugees now at Morrisons, is throwing down the gauntlet to rivals. Breakthrough: Amazon has been looking for an entrance into the British grocery market for some time. Now it has it through an alliance with Morrisons An often forgotten advantage that Morrisons has over the other supermarkets is vertical integration. It has its own food production operation from farm to abattoir to the butchery counter, and now the ability to leverage this online into fresh and frozen food deliveries. Amazons march into grocery territory makes it all the more important for Sainsburys to come back with a more seductive offer for Home Retail Group that leaps over the South African challenger Steinhoff and extends its reach in non-food and fast delivery. Sainsburys has the ability to pay more because of the cost savings it can make by ending Argoss older leases and through the integration of its credit book and Sainsburys Bank. In the present frenetic environment Sainsburys chairman David Tyler and chief executive Mike Coupe need to demonstrate boldness. There is very little of that to be seen in the self-serving British Retail Consortium report on the future of jobs in retail. It advocates reform of business rates. But does not tell the Chancellor George Osborne where he is going to find the foregone income at a time when the Treasury is searching for further deficit reduction if it is to meet the Governments fiscal target by the end of the year. Moreover, for senior executives of major retailers to wax on about the damage likely to be done by the National Living Wage, when none of them show any sign of moderating their own wage packets, is morally suspect. In the South, where the cost of living is higher anyway and wages rates higher too, the living wage should not be an undue burden. As you move further North it is more of a zero sum game than the retailers would have you believe. Every penny extra in the pay packets of shop workers is more disposable income for them to spend. It is only the Mom & Pop operations which will seriously suffer and there ought to be ways to ease their path to a fairer wage structure. It is traditional for special interest groups to plead poverty ahead of the Budget and some of the recent changes affecting high streets, such as the way in which the apprentice levy is to be recycled back into business, could do with adjustment. The new structure makes it less likely that companies that operate their own internal training will bother with apprenticeships. If they do so they will become bogged down in bureaucratic nightmares, including Ofsted testing of their own schemes. The BRC is a useful collator of data about the High Street. But its special political pleading does it little credit. Deal breakers The efforts by the bigwigs behind the would be merger of the London Stock Exchange by Deutsche Boerse to pretend this is a done deal must be disregarded. Firstly, as everyone needs to recognise, there is no such thing as merger of equals when one of the equals, the Frankfurt exchange has 54 per cent of the stock. Secondly, the competition barriers to the deal are becoming higher. The French economic minister Emmanuel Macron is concerned about the threat of the deal to Paris as a financial centre. Pity that George Osborne or the remarkably silent Business Secretary Sajid Javid isnt taking the same interest in the impact on the City. Remarkably the UK may have to depend on the European Competition Commissioner, the formidable Margrethe Vestager, to launch an inquiry and rid them of a troublesome interloper. Size is less important than flexibility when it comes to financial markets. That is why both the LSE and DB have opted for advice from boutique advisers rather than the investment banking dinosaurs. Out of Africa Great to know that when it comes to making sure that investors funds are spent wisely, EasyJet founder Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou has lost none of his fervour. As a 12 per centinvestor in African no-frills carrier Fastjet Haji-Ioannau rightly is concerned that soon-to-depart chief executive Ed Winter and fellow directors are sitting in Gatwick depleting the groups financial resources while reporting revenues in Tanzanian currency 4,750 miles away. Investors could be forgiven for thinking that China doesn't look too rosy at present, with many of the shock waves being sent through global stock markets being blamed on its economic woes. These include its slowing growth, painful transition to a consumer-led economy, and the occasional backfiring of government initiatives. All that has been set against a rollercoaster ride for China's stock market - and the UK-based funds and trusts that invest there. The most high-profile of these is Fidelity's China Special Situations, an investment trust launched to great fanfare under famous investor Anthony Bolton. The trust proved hugely popular at launch but fell victim to bad-timing and saw its value slump - Bolton pulled it back into the black just before he retired and handed over the reins to Dale Nicholls. If anything, Nicholls has endured even more of a rollercoaster ride at the helm, but he still firmly believes in China's long-term prospects - Eleanor Lawrie asked him to explain why in our video interviews below. The Chinese New Year arrived recently, but will it be a fresh start for China's economy? The Fidelity China Special Situations story As its name suggests, the Fidelity China Special Situations investment trust looks to invest in stocks that manager Dale Nicholls believes are undervalued - the traditional intention of special situations investing. One of the key themes Nicholls taps into is the burgeoning middle class and with it, the consumer story, meaning the performance of the trust is less correlated with the Chinese economy, or its stock market, than other China funds. Significant holdings include Shanghai International Airport and telecommunications firm CITIC Telecom international. Cheerleaders for China argue that although the headline news may make worrying reading for investors, the long-term growth story is that of a giant economy making the transition from command to consumer - and that those willing to stomach volatility in the short-term could see good returns over the next five to ten years. Nicholls officially took over management of the Fidelity China trust from Anthony Bolton almost two years ago, and in that time it has done reasonably well. From his takeover in April 2014, the trust's share price has risen by 21.2 per cent, compared with a rise of 9 per cent for the MSCI China. However, recent storms have taken their toll and year-to-date the trust's share price has fallen more than 13 per cent. Those figures do not tell the real story of the past 18 months, however. In May last year, Fidelity China Special Situations was up more 70 per cent in 12 months, it then dived almost 35 per cent, jumped 20 per cent and then fell back again. Over the past year, the trust's share price is down 6.1 per cent and it currently trades at an 18.6 per cent discount to net asset value. Ongoing charges are 1.35 per cent. Rollercoaster ride: Fidelity China Special Situations investors have seen shares slump and rocket How has the investing environment changed? While Nicholls acknowledges that growth is slowing, he describes it as 'a natural slowdown' as the Chinese move away from external demand and infrastructure building and towards a market driven by consumers. He also notes the government's attempts to implement a broad range of reforms. Why invest in China given the issues it is currently facing? Although the trust has lost 13.7 per cent year to date - compared to a drop of 8.3 per cent for the MSCI China index - in the longer term it has outperformed. The trust is geared into the economic re-balancing towards the growing middle class, which Nicholls describes as a 'really interesting area'. While the wider market has fallen, he thinks this consumption theme will continue to do well over the next five to 10 years. How has the trust positioned itself given the recent sell-off? The Fidelity manager explains how he looks for companies that can deliver in the mid-term. At the moment he is looking for companies in the IT space, taking advantage of China's growing computer literacy. Within this theme, online shopping has been a particular focus, with companies like Alibaba - China's eBay - performing well for the trust. What does the Chinese government need to do to help investors? The manager talks about the need for the government to further open up the economy, making it more competitive and less reliant on state-owned companies. Write-downs: Shares in claims handlers Slater & Gordon almost halved yesterday Shares in claims handlers Slater & Gordon almost halved yesterday after it posted 500million losses following huge write-downs on its UK business Quindell. For the six months to December the Australian solicitors firm made a loss of 492million, with troubled accountancy firm Quindell being written down by 420million. Slater & Gordon bought the professional services division of Quindell, which is being investigated by the Serious Fraud Office, only a year ago for 637million. Managing director Andrew Grech said: Clearly [these] results are very disappointing. In particular the decline in business performance in the UK is of serious concern to all at Slater & Gordon and equally will be of concern to our investors. We will therefore be taking a number of necessary and significant steps to improve the operational performance of both the UK business and the broader Slater & Gordon Group. Sir, I am deeply disappointed by the act of the University of Swaziland on calling and consequently setting armed policemen and women on students. It is regrettable that instead of talking about the issues at hand they deliberately resorted to such measures of causing anarchy and pain among students I must say what I saw was brutal. Our police think that if students gathered without permission at university or if they disrupted the traffic or if they trespassed on the grounds of the peoples institution that is supposed to be open to all, then the police are justified in using violence against them. This is both ethically and legally nonsensical. Section 2 of the Swaziland Public Order Act of 1963 does not allow the police to use violence against any person assembled - even if they did not get permission to gather. Only if a member of the police or above the rank of warrant officer has reasonable grounds to believe that danger to persons and property, as a result of the gathering or demonstration, cannot be averted by other steps aimed at controlling a gathering. This did not happen at the University of Swaziland. When police started attacking students, there was no real danger to persons or property. There was also no warning before the police action ensued. It is thus not possible to justify the police violence last week by appealing to the law. Couldnt they have used water canons? Why would police run over people with a Casspir? I need as many facts about the unwarranted attack on our people by policemen. This leaves aside the fact that it is ethically abhorrent for the State to use violence against peaceful students who came to the university to have their voices heard. It sends a signal that might is right and that the voices of people do not count in Swaziland. Lives of students remain worthless in our government. Mancoba Njomza Mhlongo MZIMPOFU Father Angelo Ciccone died believing that the Swazi nation did not appreciate his work at St Josephs anymore. This was revealed by Father Wandile Dlamini, who was leading the late St Josephs Parish leaders farewell service yesterday morning. Speaking during the service, Dlamini informed the packed church that before his demise, Father Ciccone bitterly declared that he was no longer appreciated in Swaziland. It looks like Swazis no longer appreciate my work, Father Ciccone is alleged to have always told his co-workers at the mission located at Mzimpofu. Dlamini explained that the Italian-born reverend, who came to Swaziland about 60 years ago and established a school for children with disabilities in Swaziland, felt that he was not getting the necessary assistance from Swazis in order to continue providing the needed care for children with disabilities at St Josephs Mission. I cannot live as a beggar to maintain the handicapped children in Swaziland, Ciccone was quoted to have said repeatedly as his strength ebbed due to ill health and his age. Dlamini informed the church that when they asked him what he meant by his utterances, the late father is said to have informed them that he was now too old and had no strength to continue moving around cap in hand, asking to be assisted with provisions for children living at the mission. He asked us what the nation was doing to maintain and continue his work at St Josephs Mission, Dlamini said to a quiet church. He mentioned that Ciccone felt that there were people in the country who could have assisted him financially and otherwise to keep the mission thriving but none of them ever came forward. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams By Madina Toure Although state Sen. Toby Stavisky (D-Flushing) thinks Albany is still dysfunctional, she said the state Democratic Conference has become very united. In an interview at the TimesLedger office this week, Stavisky said new state Senate Majority Leader John Flanagan (R-Suffolk) is trying to do a good job but that from the point of view of a Senate Democrat, she believes more can be done. She noted that Flanagan has pretty much dismissed a minimum wage increase, pay equity, paid family leave and the 10-point Womens Equality Agenda. She also said the loophole that permits limited liability corporationsLLCsto give unlimited amounts of money should be closed and that legislators should give up their outside jobs. As an example, she cited former state Senate Majority Dean Skelos. a Nassau Republican, who along with his son was found guilty on federal corruption charges in December. The testimony I heard about and read about in the Skelos indictment was terrible, she said. When a legislator is arrested, its a reflection on everybody. We all look bad, and thats unfair because most of us take our job seriously. But she remarked that two former Democratic state senators, Pedro Espada Jr. of the Bronx, and Malcolm Smith of Queens, are no longer in the Democratic Conference, praising their replacements. Gustavo Rivera is now occupying Espadas old seat, while Leroy Comrie (D-Hollis) is occupying Smiths seat. Stavisky, who is the conferences assistant leader for conference operations, also credited conference leader Andrea Stewart-Cousins (D-Yonkers) and her deputy, state Sen. Mike Gianaris (D-Astoria), for what she described as their non-confrontational and inclusive attitude. The interesting part is that the Democratic Conference has totally changed, she said. That is something that people have not seen. We are very united and the bad people in our conference are gone and I think that bodes well for the elections in November. She also noted that the conference has done its best to work with the Independent Democratic Conference, a group of break-away Democrats in the state Senate. Weve tried to be inclusive and we havent said anything that will jeopardize any future relationship, she said. I think we agree on many issues. Well see what happens in November, its up to the voters. But we try to be inclusive. The senator also spoke about the future of Flushing, saying that the infrastructure is not keeping up with the neighborhoods growth and recalling her suggestion that a subway entrance should be placed at Prince Street and Roosevelt Avenue to relieve overcrowding on the 7 train. She expressed concerns about the Q44 Select Bus Service route. I think theyre going to have to take another look at this because its forcing all the traffic into one lane, she said. Thereve been a lot of fatalities, a lot of people have been hit by buses, casino buses in particular, hit by cars. She said School District 25 is not as overcrowded as other districts in the borough and that there is a need for a high school, describing College Point Corporate Park as a good location and referencing a now-scrapped plan to put a high school at the city Department of Educations building at 30-48 Linden Place. She also said a hearing should have been held on mayoral control, which she said should have been renewed for more than a year, and expressed concerns about airplane noise as well as cuts in the state higher education budget. October Fun Calendar: Plenty to do this month in Beaver County Torin Halsey/Times Record News Lone Star Milk Transport yard manager Billy Berend demonstrates how a driver would connect to a dairys tanks to pick up a load of fresh milk. Lone Star Milk Transport works with dairies across the South from Eastern New Mexico, up to Kansas and east to Florida. SHARE TORIN HALSEY/TIMES RECORD NEWS Henry Florsheim (left), CEO of the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce and Industry, moderates a panel discussion in 2015 at the Governors Small Business Forum at the Wichita Falls Country Club. Participants were (from left) Florsheim, Dr. Gary Don Harkey, dean of instructional services of Vernon College, Dr. Suzanne Shipley, president of Midwestern State University, Michael Kuhrt, superintendent of Wichita Falls ISD and Mona Statser, executive director of Workforce Solutions. Subjects included education and training for the local business community. TORIN HALSEY/TIMES RECORD NEWS Chuck Lyles speaks at the Small Business Development Centers Idea Wichita Falls 2015 awards luncheon. Lyles is the CEO of GuideIT a technology optimization service and has worked in business development with Perot Systems, EDS and Dell. This is the sixth year for the contest, which supports and encourages entrepreneurship, economic development and small business growth. By Christopher Collins of the Times Record News The year 2015 was one of big successes for the Wichita Falls Chamber of Commerce and Industry, according to Henry Florsheim, president/CEO. The chamber, which supports businesses through advocacy and economic development, helped expand a fuel cell facility into the city, lured in a milk transport company and brought the Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame to Wichita Falls, among other endeavors. "We've been quite involved," Florsheim said. In August, the chamber succeeded in pushing a $2 million incentive package for American Fuel Cell and Coated Fabrics through the Wichita Falls City Council, which will eventually create 280 jobs. The company, commonly referred to as Amfuel, cited the chamber's efforts as one reason they chose to expand operations here. November saw the introduction of Lone Star Milk Transport to Wichita Falls after a $300,000 cash-for-jobs agreement was struck with the company, That deal netted 55 jobs, according to prior reports. Later in November it was a good month for the chamber Pro Wrestling Hall of Fame announced it would be relocating to Big Blue in downtown Wichita Falls. It's expected to bring 9,000 visitors to the induction ceremony and spark local tourism. Installing "wayfinding" signs, which point visitors around town, was also cited as a major chamber undertaking last year. "They're just about everywhere," Florsheim said. Looking to the just-begun year of 2016, the CEO said he plans to continue advocating for Wichita Falls business. He also said the organization is looking for a new location to set up shop, in hopes of gaining more visibility. "Our mission is to build a better community," Florsheim said. "We're in a position where we can really push forward the ideas people are interested in." An official at America's Small Business Development Center at Midwestern State University also said it had a great 2015. The center provides business consulting, training and research to an 11-county area, said Vanda Wright Cullar, regional director at the center. "The SBDC is excited that we saw activity pick up in 2015," Cullar said. "More clients opening, expanding, adding jobs and finding funding. We certainly hope that trend continues." On Cullar's "watch list" for this year are Dear Heart Designs, Keeno's Steakhouse Jerky, JC Mobile Mechanics, Energy Architects and Figurefabulous. What has Gov. Abbott done about the six mass shootings on his watch? SHARE By Patrick Johnston, patrick.johnston@timesrecordnews.com The Wichita Falls Campus Crime Stoppers was recently recognized as the state's top program at an annual conference. They were named the Campus Crime Stoppers of the Year at the 21st Annual Texas Campus Crime Stoppers Conference held last week in Odessa. "It's an award for the combination of work we do here throughout the year and then how the kids interact with the other campuses down at the conference," said WFPD Officer Brian Bohn, campus program coordinator. "Their attitude, spirit and effort to inspire others to do their best is how they view that award." For Bohn, it's further affirmation that the campus crime stoppers is a success and helping make the local schools a safer place for the students. "To me, I think it means the program's working," Bohn said. "We're getting the drugs out of the school and helping solve any thefts that occur, burglaries to vehicles or vandalism." Since it's inception in 1994, the Wichita Falls Campus Crime Stoppers has helped clear 1,614 cases, led to 1,672 arrests, recovered $170,286 of stolen property, removed $13,998 of narcotics and paid out $19,874 in rewards. "There's some larger programs down around the border that recover more drugs and pay out more rewards, but up here it's really good compared to other programs around the state," Bohn said. One of the focuses of the local program has been trying to keep guns and weapons out of the schools. "The board voted to pay $500 if somebody calls to report a student with a gun in school," Bohn said. "To the board, paying $500 is nothing compared to if we had a shooting in one of our schools. We don't want a Columbine or Sandy Hook or anything like that." The program is also able to receive tips on any potential improper relationships between educators and students. "That's why the program is here to make sure our kids are safe in their schools," Bohn said. The Wichita Falls Campus Crime Stoppers program was also awarded the productivity award for greatest dollar recovery or most cases cleared for a school population of 2501-5000. "It's not just the Crime Stoppers kids and board members," Bohn said. "The students themselves are the ones that call and text in tips." The Hirschi program was "ecstatic" when they found out they'd won the Best Crime of the Week award in the Newsprint High School category. Their coordinator, Billy Ray, has been helping with the program since it was first formed. "We've had 21 campus conferences in the state and he's been to every one of them and won awards at every one," Bohn said. "He's going to retire this year and is taking a lot of experience with him. He's planning on stepping up and still helping out, but he really works with the kids." One of the different approaches used at Hirschi is posting flyers around the school in other languages, including Arabic, Spanish and German, due to the school's diverse population. Bohn said the program is also losing two other coordinators Rudy Martinez of Burkburnett and Elwyn Ladd of Midwestern State University. Martinez started out in the Henrietta program and continued when he moved to Burkburnett. Ladd is a retired WFPD officer and has been working as an officer at MSU for the last 10 years. The Wichita Falls Campus Crime Stoppers is hosting its annual fundraiser Moonlight Walk Against Drugs from 7-10 p.m. April 23 at D.L. Ligon Coliseum. The event will feature live music, a dunking booth with WFPD officers, demonstrations by local and area law enforcement agencies and food. Texas Flag SHARE By Bloomberg View A big part of the case against President Barack Obama's immigration policy, led by Texas, is that it imposes undue costs on states. But as the Supreme Court considers the policy arguments are expected in April it ought to consider the benefits as well. Two new pieces of research detail those benefits. For undocumented immigrants, Obama's plan would raise incomes and decrease poverty. And for state and local governments, the changes could increase tax revenue by more than $800 million. Obama's executive actions on immigration would provide temporary relief from deportation and enable qualifying immigrants to gain work authorization. Issued in 2014, they are designed for parents of legal residents and undocumented immigrants brought to the U.S. as children. A federal court temporarily blocked the program in February 2015, an appeals court upheld the ruling in November, and last month the Supreme Court agreed to hear the case. Texas and 25 other states argue that Obama's plans impose vague but "substantial costs" -- for health care, law enforcement, education, even issuing driver's licenses. This argument falls apart when you look at U.S. Census data, as researchers at the Migration Policy Institute and Urban Institute did. The vast majority of the 3.6 million undocumented immigrant parents eligible for the program have lived in the U.S. for more than a decade, and roughly 85 percent of their minor children are U.S. citizens. If the parents were authorized to work, average annual family income would rise by 10 percent, or about $3,000. Poverty among these families would decline by about 6 percent. Nor would this cost Americans jobs, because most eligible men are already in the workforce. None of this should come as a surprise. Numerous studies have found that legal work status or citizenship for undocumented immigrants would unleash entrepreneurial energy and free immigrants to invest in businesses, homes or simply their own human capital to elevate their station. New York, California and 13 other states argue that their economies would gain if undocumented immigrants gained lawful employment. Since 2013, when the House failed to follow the Senate and pass comprehensive immigration reform, roughly 11 million undocumented immigrants have been in limbo. Many of these immigrants are working. They just aren't working in properly regulated workplaces, with regulated pay. Too many are unable to fulfill their economic potential and live under the persistent threat of deportation. Before the Supreme Court accepts the dubious economic arguments put forth by Texas and its peers, it should look long and hard at the voluminous evidence that rebuts it. Keeping people in limbo, it turns out, is expensive. North Bennington This Vermont village is the latest municipality to sound an alarm about a possible carcinogen in its drinking water after finding perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, in private wells. Sparked by news coverage of PFOA tainting the village of Hoosick Falls' water supply eight miles away, Vermont Gov. Peter Shumlin said late last week that the Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation tested five wells in the village and in the town of Bennington and found elevated levels of PFOA in and around a former manufacturing plant on Water Street. One residential well tested at 2,880 parts per trillion when the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's current standard is 100 ppt. The Vermont Department of Health said it set its drinking limit for PFOA at 20 parts per trillion. A second community meeting will be held Monday night at North Bennington Fire Station to address residents' questions. Interest in Vermont testing arose also because the former ChemFab plant there was last owned by Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics, the same company that New York state has said is potentially responsible for the PFOA contamination in Hoosick Falls; Honeywell International has also been cited in Hoosick Falls. Wells in the town of Hoosick and water systems in nearby Petersburgh, Rensselaer County where a Taconic Plastics plant is located have also tested positive for the chemical, a man-made substance that is used to create nonstick coating and make other products heat-resistant and water-repellent. Saint-Gobain closed the North Bennington factory in 2002. The company said it began reducing PFOA use in 2003. The state of Vermont has told people who are not on the North Bennington or Bennington municipal water systems, who live within a mile-and-a-half of the plant, to use only bottled water for drinking, cooking and brushing teeth. The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation is distributing water. The village's water tested negative for heightened levels of the chemical. The state is planning more testing. PFOA, while phased out of manufacturing at the EPA's urging a decade ago, is made to be durable and can persist in the environment. However, it is not a chemical that is part of standard water tests. Ingesting it could lead to health hazards, including adverse effects on infant and child development as well as rare forms of cancer. The Times Union reported that New York state regulators learned about the possible presence of PFOA before the issue blew up publicly late last year information was given to state officials as early as 2005 in Petersburgh. State officials have said environmental laws and regulations in 2005 did not require any public notification or additional investigation. The chemical was discovered in the village of Hoosick Falls' water system in 2014 by a private citizen, Michael Hickey, whose father, John, died of kidney cancer in 2013. The New York state Department of Health then downplayed concerns about PFOA until the EPA recommended no one drink the water in Dec. 2015. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and features with our afternoon newsletter. Now New York is making an emergency state Superfund allocation of $10 million available to install filtration systems for 1,500 town of Hoosick homes. A temporary water filtration system in the village of Hoosick Falls, paid for by Saint-Gobain, should also be online in the next week, with a permanent filtration system in the works. New York state officials have also said they are testing for PFOA in other surrounding communities to get a handle on the extent of PFOA contamination in drinking water. lstanforth@timesunion.com 518-454-5697 Members of the 109th Airlift Wing based in Scotia helped retrieve 35 Australian researchers in Antarctica after the ship that was supposed to carry them ran aground. The eight-person New York National Guard crew used its ski-equipped L-C130 to fly members of the expedition from Davis research station, the most southerly Australian Antarctic station located 2,250 nautical miles south/southwest of Perth. New York U.S. Sen. Charles Schumer wants to require the Federal Aviation Administration to establish seat-size standards for commercial airlines, which he says now force passengers to sit on planes "like sardines." The New York Democrat told The Associated Press the airlines have been slowly cutting down legroom and seat width. "One of the most vexing things when you travel on an airplane is there's almost no legroom on your standard flight," Schumer said. "There's been constant shrinkage by the airlines." He said he will add an amendment to the FAA Reauthorization Bill that is pending before Congress that would require the agency to set the seat-size guidelines. Schumer said seat pitch, the distance between a point on an airline seat and the same spot on the seat in front of it, has dropped from 35 inches in the 1970s to a current average of closer to 31 inches, and seat width has gone from 18.5 inches to about 16.5 inches. "They're like sardines," Schumer said of airplane passengers. "It's no secret that airlines are looking for more ways to cut costs, but they shouldn't be cutting inches of legroom and seat width in the process ... It's time for the FAA to step up and stop this deep-seated problem from continuing," Schumer said. Currently, there are no federal limits on how close an airline's row of seats can be or how wide an airline's seat must be. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate The 2016 Academy Awards brought Hollywood stars to local screens, but meeting celebrities is old news for Capital Region residents who served as movie extras over the years. In the early '70s, Joseph Gregory was 12, one of those New York City boys often spied trundling down the neighborhood streets in packs, ready for basketball or stickball or trouble. He knew a movie called "The Godfather" was filming in his neighborhood, and he wanted to check it out. By the end of the day, Gregory, now deputy chief captain of the Albany Fire Department, was an extra in the Academy Award-winning 1972 epic. Gregory's role was the son of mob lawyer Tom Hagen, played by Robert Duvall. The crew was filming the funeral scene, which brought together many of the movie's actors as they mourned the death of a key character. The child actors met the cast. Gregory said he didn't know much about Al Pacino, Abe Vigoda and James Caan at the time, but he remembers Diane Keaton fondly. "She took care of us," Gregory said. "She was concerned about us. She made sure we had water, something to eat. I'll always remember that." When the movie came out, Gregory watched and couldn't believe all the fuss and preparation that had gone into making his piece of the movie. "My four minutes of fame," Gregory said. There, between Pacino and Vigoda, was Gregory. A silent role, true, and in the background, but still it was a lot of screen time for a neighborhood kid. He had been cut from another scene, but such is show business. Mathew Sovern of Athens was an extra in the 2004 filming of Steven Spielberg's 2005 release "War of the Worlds." Sovern remembers how local residents jostled each other to get the most time on screen. "There was almost an internal hierarchy of people who had clear face time and people who didn't," Sovern said. "Looking back, it was kind of silly, but at the time it was important." The life of an extra, Sovern said, was filled with waiting and intermittent screaming at aliens. They filmed at night in the winter. "People were cold, tired, exhausted, it was raining all the time," Sovern said. "You're standing out there for long periods of time waiting for action. "You had to come up with things to do and things to talk about," Sovern said. "Well you could talk about, 'Hey I got on camera today.'" In one shot, a cameraman filmed as he went from the bridge to the back of the ferry, and extras leaned into the walkway to increase their chances of screen time. The cameraman ran into Sovern and asked, politely, if he needed to be leaning in so far. "I didn't want to say I was trying to get into the shot," Sovern said. Sign up for The Knick Get the latest news and features with our afternoon newsletter. In the end, Sovern was visible for maybe a second. "I think I found myself on screen," Sovern said. "I watched it on video and I freeze-framed it, and I think it was me." Sovern got to chat a bit with Spielberg, and he said whenever the movie airs, he gets to say he was there during the ferry scene. The problem is the movie isn't shown very often. "I think I would be more excited if it was a really good movie," Sovern said. Gregory, for his part, said he never knew "The Godfather" would become what it did. Years later, his fellow firefighters found out about his small role. Whenever the movie came on at the station, they would call him. All day and night. "Of course, it's the greatest movie ever made, so it has to be on all the time," Gregory said. jlawrence@timesunion.com 518-454-5467 @jplawrence3 Fianna Fail confirmed this week the addition of Cllr Siobhan Ambrose, of Clonmel, and Cllr Michael Smith, of Roscrea, to the ticket in Tipperary for the forthcoming General Election. Fianna Fail confirmed this week the addition of Cllr Siobhan Ambrose, of Clonmel, and Cllr Michael Smith, of Roscrea, to the ticket in Tipperary for the forthcoming General Election. The decision was made following a meeting of the partys National Constituencies Committee. The two will join Cllr. Jackie Cahill of Thurles who was selected to run for the party at a selection convention in Thurles in early June. The Chairman of the National Constituencies Committee, Michael Moynihan TD, commented, Fianna Fail has made the decision to add Councillors Siobhan Ambrose and Michael Smith to the partys ticket in Tipperary. They will join Cllr Jackie Cahill, who was elected to Tipperary County Council for Fianna Fail last year. Jackie is an excellent candidate with a strong background in farming and leadership, serving as a President of the ICMSA, Chairman of the Irish Dairy Council, member of Bord Bia and Director of Thurles Greyhound Stadium. Cllr Ambrose from Clonmel was first elected to Tipperary County Council in 2009 and served on Clonmel Borough Council from 2004. She is a highly active member of the Fianna Fail Party, holding several positions within the organisation on the Ard Chomhairle, the Womens Equality Forum and Ogra Fianna Fail. Cllr Smith, a farmer from Roscrea, was first elected as a County Councillor in 2004, topping the poll in the last local elections in 2014. He is a former Vice Chairperson of North Tipperary County Council. Fianna Fail now has an extremely strong ticket in Tipperary which will seek to represent the people of Tipperary at the forthcoming general election, said Deputy Moynihan. Cllrs. Smith and Ambrose had also contested Junes selection convention, with Cllr. Smith receiving the highest number of first preferences but suffering badly in the transfers, with Cllr. Cahill ultimately selected. Ruth Fairchild (center) addresses those in attendance during the VFW's 70th anniversary dinner about the many accomplishments of the Bruce Shorts Post 5958 over the years. Fairchild is the first female veteran and veteran of the Desert Storm era told hold the position of commander for the Pennsylvania VFW. [February 29, 2016] Cryogenic Control Releases ELLN2 Software to Three Beta Sites Cryogenic Control, provider of innovative remote monitoring and control solutions for cryogenic freezers, today announced the beta release of its first software product, ELLN 2 (pronounced EL-en), and three beta sites implementing the software. Three world-class Georgia institutions, including MNG Laboratories, received the beta version of ELLN 2 over the past three months. A previous version of the software is licensed to a major public health agency in the Atlanta metro area since 2014. Founded in 2014, Cryogenic Control is developing ELLN 2 , the first-of-its-kind comprehensive remote monitoring and control system for cryogenic freezers. ELLN 2 installs on a PC and connects directly to Chart MVE Biomedical freezer controller models TEC2000, TEC3000, and Vario using standard network cables. A fraction of the cost of other systems, ELLN 2 does not require new temperature probes. Lori Campbell, PhD, President of Cryogenic Control said: "The original concept for ELLN 2 came from my time leading the biorepository at the Cnters for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). We worked closely with industry over the past 18 months and invested thousands of coding hours to develop ELLN 2 to meet the needs of small biorepositories with a single freezer up to large biorepositories managing several hundred freezers. ELLN 2 is the only solution that allows remote control of freezers and alarm triage. We are excited to partner with these global thought leaders in Georgia before rolling ELLN 2 out across the globe later this year." Matthew Snyder, Procurement Manager at MNG Laboratories said: "The preservation of cold chain storage for our samples is part of our reputation for securing those samples entrusted to us with world-class monitoring technology. We view ELLN2 as a potential extension of our diverse capabilities and cutting-edge techniques, and we look forward to validating the software in our facility." Cryogenic Control expects to add beta test sites in the U.S. and Canada in Q2 2016. The company will attend the ISBER 2016 Annual Meeting in Berlin, Germany to provide a demo and answer questions. Please visit www.elln2.com to learn more. An introductory video to ELLN 2 is available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JMJXy5umYvU. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160229005160/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [February 29, 2016] Hannon Armstrong CEO to Present at UBS Utilities and Natural Gas One-on-One Conference; Morgan Stanley MLP/Diversified Natural Gas, Utilities & Clean Tech Conference; and Climate Leadership Conference ANNAPOLIS, Md., Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. ("Hannon Armstrong," "we," or "our;" NYSE: HASI), a leading provider of debt and equity financing to the energy efficiency and renewable energy markets, today announced that management will be presenting at the following upcoming conferences: UBS Utilities and Natural Gas One-on-One Conference Date: Wednesday, March 2, 2016 Renewables Round Table Time: 4:15pm ET InterContinental Boston Boston, MA Morgan Stanley MLP/Diversified Natural Gas, Utilities and Clean Tech Conference Date: Thursday, March3, 2016 Financing Renewables Growth Time: 3:00pm ET The St. Regis New York New York, NY Climate Leadership Conference Date: Thursday, March 10, 2016 Panel Presentation: Going Straight to the Source: Investing in Clean Technology Time: 2:00pm PT Sheraton Seattle Hotel Seattle, WA Management will also hold one-on-one and small group meetings with investors. A copy of the presentation that we will use for upcoming investor meetings will be available on its website under, "HASI Investor Relations Presentation March 2016." About Hannon Armstrong Hannon Armstrong (NYSE: HASI) provides debt and equity financing to the energy efficiency and renewable energy markets. We focus on providing preferred or senior level capital to established sponsors and high credit quality obligors for assets that generate long-term, recurring and predictable cash flows. We are based in Annapolis, Maryland, and we elected and are structured as a real estate investment trust (REIT) for federal income-tax purposes. Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. Investor Relations Inquiries: [email protected] 410-571-6189 Logo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160203/329541LOGO To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/hannon-armstrong-ceo-to-present-at-ubs-utilities-and-natural-gas-one-on-one-conference-morgan-stanley-mlpdiversified-natural-gas-utilities--clean-tech-conference-and-climate-leadership-conference-300227433.html SOURCE Hannon Armstrong Sustainable Infrastructure Capital, Inc. [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [February 29, 2016] Qognify's Market Leading PSIM and Situation Management Solution Adds Actionable Intelligence Capabilities PARAMUS, New Jersey, February 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Qognify, formerly NICE Security, today announced the release of Situator 8.0 with the introduction of the new Operational Intelligence Center (OIC). The latest version of the market leading PSIM and Situation Management solution provides a platform for leveraging the massive amounts of big data Situator captures, monitors and correlates and turns it into actionable intelligence. The Operational Intelligence Center, with its new advanced rules engine, monitors large volumes of data and detects deviations in leading indicators, which are often precursors to incidents. This allows organizations to prepare for impending incidents, initiate a proactive response and mitigate their impact. Additionally, the OIC introduces a new visualization engine, which greatly enhances Situational wareness and ongoing operations management. Displaying any operational parameter, the visualization engine allows supervisors, executives and other stakeholders to customize dashboards based on their needs and their role, providing the right information to the right people in real time. Situator's OIC goes beyond just presenting business intelligence. Its powerful correlation engine and adaptive workflow capabilities provide actionable intelligence: insight about what is happening or unfolding, together with the critical 'what to do next' guidance. This can be incredibly valuable, particularly when the cost of business disruption is measured in minutes by organizations such as airports, mass transit, critical facilities and even commercial entities such as banks. In the same way that the OIC proactively addresses unfolding incidents, it can also be used by an organization to improve performance of day-to-day operational activities. "Our customers and partners were actively involved in the design and development of the Operational Intelligence Center," said Moti Shabtai, President of Qognify. "They wanted a solution that would help them anticipate unfolding events and effectively manage them, in order to mitigate any impact. Additionally, they wanted to get a holistic view of what is happening in their organization on a day-to-day basis. Organizations can now align KPIs with their business objectives, allowing them to understand what needs to be changed or improved and how. They can then monitor results to gauge the efficacy of their actions, making adjustments for continual improvement along the way." Situator 8.0 is available now from Qognify. About Qognify Qognify helps organizations mitigate risk, maintain business continuity, and optimize operations. The Qognify portfolio includes video management, video and data analytics, and PSIM/ Situation Management solutions that are deployed in financial institutions, transportation agencies, airports, seaports, utility companies, city centers, and to secure many of the world's highest-profile public events. http://www.Qognify.com. Corporate Media Contact: Hagar Lev, +49-1711-637667, [email protected] SOURCE Qognify [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] Microsoft may have been hacked what this means for you The Lapsus$ hacking crew said it had stolen 37 GB of source code from Microsoft, but it still wasn't clear if that claim was true or what the source code could be used for. Introduction And Test System We've benchmarked unfinished games several times in our reviews, most recently in our Radeon R9 Nano launch article. Back then, we found some driver issues and, even worse, hardware problems on Nvidia graphics cards. It didn't take that company long to respond with new software that not only helped overcome those technical shortcomings, but even turned the performance story around, enabling a small lead over the competition. This time around was a bit different. Since AMD provided us with an optimized launch driver, we asked Nvidia if it had one for us as well. Company reps didn't seem too pleased with the question and pointed us to its current WHQL-certified driver, version 361.91. That was all Nvidia would say on the matter. As a game, Ashes of the Singularity is really the perfect showcase for DirectX 12. It features many small AI-controlled entities moving across a large area. This is both a pro and a con. It does show off the API's benefits nicely. But we also have to recognize that those gains will probably be less pronounced in titles that don't exploit DirectX 12's new features as heavily. The capability making the headlines lately is called Asynchronous Shading/Compute. It allows the parallel and asynchronous (meaning completely order-independent) execution of graphical tasks (shading) and calculations (compute). If correctly implemented in hardware and software, the technology can cut latency down by a massive amount, which in turn results in higher performance. Let's review a diagram of how tasks are handled in DirectX 11. They are executed one by one in a fixed order. This order can't be changed, and the only way to achieve efficiency is to split up the queue and keep it relatively short. In DirectX 12, the queue can be split so that tasks are completed at the same time and somewhat offset from each other. This works fairly well for the benchmark we're using today, so we'll actually see its potential in practice. Just remember, though, how much of a difference this new feature makes is going to depend on how much the tasks in a particular game benefit from being executed in parallel, which is to say asynchronously. There won't be any benefit if tasks are dependent on other tasks' results, or if the overhead involved in managing all the tasks is higher than the gains from the asynchronous execution. Several revisions of AMD's GCN architecture include provisions for this functionality, so its Tonga, Hawaii and Fiji GPUs fare the best with asynchronous shading/compute. Nvidia's Kepler and Maxwell architectures are having a much harder time. The company is trying to compensate with software-based solutions instead. The following graph clearly shows that Nvidia isn't there yet. After activating the new DirectX 12 feature in the .ini file, AMD's performance increases markedly, whereas Nvidia's actually gets slightly worse. The option to switch this setting on and off convinced us to leave DirectX 11 alone completely and focus all of our efforts on DirectX 12 and asynchronous compute. To keep things fair, we're testing all graphics cards with the setting that works best for them. MORE: Best Graphics Cards MORE: All Graphics Content Test System We're using the same test system that we've been using for quite a while. We didn't make any changes to it: Technical Specifications Test System Intel Core i7-5930K at 4.2GHzAlphacool Water Cooler (NexXxos CPU Cooler, VPP655 Pump, Phobya Balancer, 24cm Radiator)Crucial Ballistix Sport, 4x 4GB DDR4-2400MSI X99S XPower AC1x Crucial MX200, 500GB SSD (System)1x Corsair Force LS 960GB SSD (Applications, Data)be quiet Dark Power Pro, 850W PSUWindows 10 Pro (All Updates) Drivers AMD: Radeon Software 15.301 B35 (Press Beta Driver, February 2016)Nvidia: ForceWare 361.91 WHQL Gaming Benchmarks Ashes of the Singularity Beta 2 (Press) Since the benchmark provides us with a very interesting log file that contains a lot of details (and not just the overall results), we updated our interpreter to take full advantage of it by looking at important things like frame times. A Kansas City newsie reportedly underwent a tragic violation of privacy and wants to SHARE HERin order to stop an alleged Golden Ghetto creeper.To wit . . .I need your help! I was at a grocery store. It was around 2:00. Sunday. Feb 28. I hadn't changed clothes since church. I was wearing a skirt.I was back by the milk. Felt something odd behind me and glanced back. There was a man bent over about three feet behind me turning his cell phone onto video and positioning it in his little shopping carry basket. He was looking down.I SAW HIM DO THIS!I couldn't believe what I'd just seen. He did not know I had seen him!It took me a moment to collect myself. I went from scared to livid in an instant.He was carrying the basket by one end so the part with the camera in it was low to the ground.I thought fast. Not sure how I had my wits, but I pulled out my camera and took his picture.I went to the front asked workers to confirm on surveillance before I confronted him.Working that quickly, they were only able to confirm that he'd been back there by me.When he came to the front, I walked right up to him and asked to see his phone.He didn't seem shocked. He didn't ask why! Just said it would be a violation of his property. When he picked up his phone, it was still on video.I told him what I saw. What I believed had happened. And that I wanted it not to be true. If he just showed me his phone I would feel safe.He wouldn't.Long story short, worker asked me if I wanted her to call police.I said he had one more chance to show me his phone and if not, then yes.Guy dropped his little basket (an onion and coffee in it), grabbed his phone and left store. Fast.Another woman had heard me. She said, "you want me to go get a pic of his plates?"Yes!! Thank you!She did. She said he almost hit people in the parking lot he left so fast.I've now talked to police. I've filed a report. They came! They were awesome! The grocery store will be pulling all surveillance video.I can't say too much about what I learned about this vehicle.... Except that it might be the exact vehicle used in very similar situations around the metro where young, unsuspecting teenage girls were the victims.This happened around 2:00/2:15. South side. Near 69 highway and 135th. If you see this truck, please call Overland Park police and report it. Ford F 150. Weird pipe and canvas like contraption on back! California plates.I was mad enough that it happened to me.I'm furious to think there are other victims. And maybe a lot of them. And maybe young girls.PLEASE SHARE!!!!And for those wondering why I don't just post the picture I took of him, TRUST ME!! I want to!!! And may yet!!! But right now it's my word against his. As soon as police tell me it's okay to post it.... Or they say he's a suspect.... You will be the first to see it!!!Note: I do not believe the guy had ANY idea what I do for a living. I think this was completely random. And could've happened to anyone.Overland Park Police Department######## KANSAS CITY ORGANIZERS ARE WORKING TO BRING DONALD TRUMP TO TOWN AS HE SOARS TO THE TOP OF GOP PRESIDENTIAL NOMINEES!!! "While we don't share the same values, we couldn't help but be inspired by the turnout for Bernie Sanders. It shows us that Kansas City is ready to move past party lines that have been holding our nation back. The reception for Trump in Kansas City would be tremendous. He's the only Republican who is talking about really changing things and I think that's why people are excited about his campaign. The Kansas City area would welcome him as a new leader beyond these party insiders." ABC News: Donald Trump Hits 49 Percent Support in New National Poll Real Clear Politics: GOP's Growing Sense of Inevitability About Trump AOL Developing: Republican leaders struggle to accept Trump may be nominee We start the week withof an alternative political move that could set that Kansas City status quo on its heels.Missouri and Kansas might be "red states" but they're entrenched in political party patronage that keeps the politics of the Midwest boring but stable. This is why the Kansas GOP is betting big on Marco Rubio and Missouri Republicans have put their faith in Ted Cruz.Meanwhile, there's a group of Kansas City Conservatives who see an opportunity to change the status quo . . .To wit . . .Here's the word:As usual, we're way ahead of all other news organizations in the metro in revealing this report but they're soon to catch up as Trump continues to show a commanding lead on the hearts and minds of GOP voters.Check the links:Developing . . . Tourexpi, turizm haberleri, Reiseburos, tourism news, noticias de turismo, Tourismus Nachrichten, , travel tourism news, international tourism news, Urlaub, urlaub in der turkei, , holidays in Turkey, , global tourism news, dunya turizm, dunya turizm haberleri, Seyahat Acentas, This site is best viewed with Microsoft Internet Explorer 6.0+, at a minimum screen resolution of 1024 x 768. TourMaG.com: During its creation, was it believed that Nausicaa would have such longevity? P.V.: Yes, because major investments were put into it for it to last. The real difficulty is guaranteeing long-term success. On our end, ours is most likely due to our renewal and event policy, and to the fact that we want to give meaning to what we do. TourMaG.com: What was the objective of creating Nausicaa? P.V.: Nausicaa was created with a two-fold goal: grow public awareness on better management of oceans in the most attractive way possible, and be a vehicle for development through the profits made. Remember that TNS SOFRES measured those profits at more than 50 euros spent per visitor in the local economy, outside expenses at Nausicaa. TourMaG.com: What type of audience to you attract? P.V.: All types, lots of families with 70% of individuals and 30% groups. They usually express being Very satisfied (4,5 /5 grade on Tripadvisor) after a visit, and often change their opinion on the marine world thanks to this wonderment. The surveys we conduct amongst our audience show that more than 60% want to act to protect oceans after the visit. TourMaG.com: Why did you choose to hold an exhibit on the tropical forrest for your 25 year anniversary? P.V.: Biodiversity is made up of relationships between species, which guarantees the solidity of wildlife. Land and sea are intertwined in our planet earth. Furthermore, the link between the sea and our Amazonian water hole at the visits exit was less obvious since we had replaced the exhibit with the house of gestures. We now think that this association has been reestablished, while offering our visitors 12 additional terrariums, that house very spectacular animals. TourMaG.com: Today, what is the number one mission of Nausicaa? P.V.: Our mission stays the same: bring awareness that will change behaviors in order to better benefit from the services that the sea has to offer mankind. This is why we must succeed in living on a daily basis without tearing into the capital of nature. Sometimes we are quite far from that, unfortunately! TourMaG.com: Do you receive lots of foreign visitors? P.V.: We have around 45% of foreigners including 20% British and 20% Belgians. Finally, it is important to remind that the entire exhibit is in both French/English. Al Islami Foods, a leading Halal food company in the Middle East region, has been named as the newest associate member of the International Poultry Council (IPC), the only poultry association recognised by the international organisations. The council was formed in 2005 by poultry industry association representatives from Argentina, Brazil, Canada, Chile, China, Egypt, the European Union, Mexico, Thailand, Turkey, and the US. IPC members represent 80 per cent of global production of poultry meat and about 95 per cent of the world's poultry trade. The announcement was made during the recently concluded first semester conference of the IPC, which was held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Abu Dhabi, UAE. The conference in Abu Dhabi is the first ever IPC gathering in the Middle East region. The meeting, which was attended by some of the worlds leading poultry brands, discussed timely issues, challenges and trends in todays global poultry industry. Al Islami, which now joins the ranks of the organisations 22 country members and 46 associate members, served as the Gold Sponsor of the event that was held for the first time in the Middle East region, said a statement from the company. Hamid Badawi Islami, deputy CEO, said: We would like to thank the IPC for naming us as its newest associate member, which complements our local commitment to bring world class, highly nutritious, and tasty Halal food to the region. Moreover, being present at the event serves our mission to be well informed and to be able to share knowledge to our consumers, particularly the benefits of protein to ones health. Chicken, for example, is an excellent and healthy source of protein and can be prepared via different recipes, he said. Naseem Ihsan, marketing manager, Al Islami, said: Being an effective partner in IPC will give us the opportunity to showcase our company as a leading provider of Halal food for the region while also voicing out our call to further reinforce the global poultry industry by promoting a worldwide understanding that these products are a healthy source of protein. TradeArabia News Service Qatar Electricity and Water Company (QEWC) will join hands with Qatar Petroleum (QP) to set up a solar power company with a capacity of 1,000 megawatt, a report said. The joint venture between the companies will have an initial capital of about QR1.82 billion ($500 million), added the Peninsula Qatar report. The company has cleared legal hurdles and has been approved by authorities, said a senior official of QEWC, Qatars main producer of utilities services. Managing director of QEWC Fahad Hamad Al Mohanadi said that the project has been decided based on the fact that producing solar power is cheaper than buying gas from international market. He added that they carried out a detailed study that proved the economic viability of the project, and will soon begin the process of establishing the company. Following the establishment of the company by a partnership between QEWC (60 per cent) and QP (40 per cent), international firms will be invited to compete for 40 per cent stake in a way followed by QEWC for its past projects, added the report. Opec oil output has fallen in February from the highest monthly level in recent history, a Reuters survey found on Monday, due to a halt in Iraq's northern exports and outages in other producers. The survey also found stable output in top exporter Saudi Arabia, an early sign that Riyadh is delivering on a February 16 deal along with Venezuela, Qatar and non-member Russia to freeze output and support prices, which hit a 12-year low last month. Supply from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries has declined in February to 32.37 million barrels per day (bpd) from a revised 32.65 million bpd in January, according to the survey, based on shipping data and information from sources at oil companies, Opec and consultants. Most of the decline in February output has been involuntary. The biggest drop is in Iraq, Opec's largest source of supply growth in 2015, due to the stoppage in flow along the pipeline carrying crude from the Kurdish region. "The interruption from Kurdistan is significant because they were a big part of the increase in exports from Iraq," said Olivier Jakob, analyst at Petromatrix. "It is prompt supplies and these are large volumes." The pipeline, which had been carrying around 600,000 bpd in recent months, has been offline since Feb. 17 and could be shut until mid-March. Production also declined in Nigeria, where Royal Dutch Shell's Nigerian venture suspended the flow of Forcados crude to the export terminal following a spill. The incident added to the impact of lower scheduled exports. Field maintenance including at the Murban development has reduced output in the United Arab Emirates, the survey found. Saudi Arabia has kept output steady compared with January at 10.20 million bpd, sources in the survey said, citing stable exports in much of February. Saudi production reached a record high of 10.56 million bpd in June. Of the countries increasing output, Iran boosted supply further following the lifting of Western sanctions in January. Iran, which wants to recover market share it lost under sanctions, has criticised the production freeze agreement. Iran has increased supply by 200,000 bpd since December, according to Reuters surveys, while Iranian officials say the country has boosted exports by a much larger 500,000 bpd. Opec production has surged since the group in November 2014 abandoned its traditional role of cutting supply alone to prop up prices, in the hope that lower prices would curb the growth of more costly-to-develop competing supply sources. The extra Opec barrels have helped to create one of the biggest supply gluts in history, and the production freeze agreed by the three Opec members plus Russia represents the first global production pact since 2001.-Reuters News Oct 21st, 2022 at 12:40 Spending on IT this year by the UK travel sector is projected to hit 1.98 billion, the highest level seen in data analysed covering the last 15 years... Rainforest Cruises is offering three exclusive gourmet cooking cruises on board the luxurious Aqua Amazon hosted by Peruvian super-chef, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. (TRAVPR.COM) UNITED STATES - February 29th, 2016 - Rainforest Cruises is offering three new voyages featuring Peruvian super-chef, Pedro Miguel Schiaffino. The Peruvian Amazon cruises will offer a gourmet insight into Amazonian cuisine, while aboard the luxurious Aqua Amazon riverboat. Activities include market visits and master cooking classes, with the multi-award winning chef who runs two of Limas most famous restaurants, Malabar and Amaz. Considered one of Perus most pioneering gourmet chefs, Schiaffino specializes in local ingredients from the Amazon region . Guests will learn about the various techniques and flavors of the jungle, and can expect to cook with fresh fish, exotic fruits, vegetables and spices, among others. Aqua Amazon has room for just 24-guests in spacious cabins, making this exclusive culinary voyage very personal. Between excursions to observe some of the Amazons iconic species, such as the enigmatic Pink River Dolphin, guests will accompany Schiaffino on tours to jungle markets to pick locally grown ingredients. Interactive cooking lessons will allow guests a sneak-peek into the Schiaffinos mind, as a sampling of his signature dishes are prepared. Aqua Amazon is a leading luxury riverboat in the Peruvian Amazon. It has 12 large and stylish suites with panoramic river views. The itineraries include cruising deep into the Pacaya Samiria National Reserve, one of the most biodiverse environments in the Rainforest, and include day and night-time excursions. The boat carries mountain bikes and kayaks for more active adventure-seekers. Chef Schiaffino is joining just three cruises in 2016. A five-day culinary cruise departs on 29 March; a four-day cruise sails on 26 November and a five-day cruise starts on 29 November. Four-day cruises start from $3,330 per person and five-day cruises from $4,440 per person, and are all-inclusive. Flights are not included. Contact Rainforest Cruises for more information: cruise@rainforestcruises.com ### The Apartment Service is delighted to announce that research has now started for the 6th edition of the Global Serviced Apartments Industry Report (GSAIR) due to be published in July 2016. First published in 2008, the GSAIR reviews the trends, development and growth of the worldwide serviced apartments industry with an indepth overview of regional differentiators. I am very pleased with how GSAIR has evolved over the last 10 years. Our latest edition (launched at the Business Travel Show in February 2015) received and continues to receive global coverage as the must read publication that supports the serviced apartment industry worldwide, says Charles McCrow, CEO of The Apartment Service. (TRAVPR.COM) UNITED KINGDOM - February 29th, 2016 - The Apartment Service is delighted to announce that research has now started for the 6th edition of the Global Serviced Apartments Industry Report (GSAIR) due to be published in July 2016. First published in 2008, the GSAIR reviews the trends, development and growth of the worldwide serviced apartments industry with an indepth overview of regional differentiators. I am very pleased with how GSAIR has evolved over the last 10 years. Our latest edition (launched at the Business Travel Show in February 2015) received and continues to receive global coverage as the must read publication that supports the serviced apartment industry worldwide, says Charles McCrow, CEO of The Apartment Service. Jo Layton, MD Group Commercial Sales The Apartment Services adds The education that GSAIR has and continues to provide our industry is invaluable. The publication boasts debate, current information, facts, figures and conversation to anyone with an interest in the industry. GSAIR 2015/2016 was supported by of the most respected serviced apartment operators and providers in the industry including Adagio, Quest, Frasers Hospitality and the Go Network. We aim to increase our contributors, widen our subject scope of coverage and look forward to analysing the results of our global surveys. Our sixth edition will discuss current topics and future trends and will continue to demystify our incredible industry. The report is once again being edited and compiled by content specialists Travel Intelligence Network, led by Mark Harris. TIN has worked on this project since its inception, so to still be involved after five editions is a privilege said Mark. Were looking forward to beginning the interview and research process. As for all previous editions, the backbone of the research for the 6th edition is created from global surveys conducted amongst serviced apartment operators, corporate buyers and booking agents of serviced apartments. If you would like to have your say as either a buyer, supplier, operator or agent, please contact Bard Vos who will be delighted to walk you through the process of submitting your views. Please click here for a redirection to our Survey page where we invite you to complete the survey most suitable to your professional status. The 2016-17 edition of GSAIR will be published in July 2016. For press enquiries about GSAIR please contact: Bard Vos Marketing Manager The Apartment Service | bard.vos@apartmentservice.com - END About The Apartment Service The Apartment Service is the worlds leading global serviced apartment booking agency. With over 30 years of experience in the serviced apartment industry, we provide a one-stop service for sourcing, booking and managing reservations into corporate housing and serviced apartments worldwide. In February 2014 The Apartment Service launched the TAS Alliance bringing together serviced apartments operators across the globe under a single representation, distribution and marketing strategy, all powered by a common technology platform. The primary goal of The Apartment Service is to provide consistency in quality and efficiency in booking serviced apartments for clients. For more information visit www.apartmentservice.com and www.thetasalliance.com ### When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. Cookies collect information about your preferences and your devices and are used to make the site work as you expect it to, to understand how you interact with the site, and to show advertisements that are targeted to your interests. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Tribune News Service Chandigarh, February 28 A brain dead Army mans liver gave a new lease of life to a Patiala woman, who had a damaged liver due to autoimmune hepatitis, at the PGI here today. Continuing with the practice of organ sharing between various hospitals in the region, an organ donated by a brain dead patient at the Command Hospital in Chandimandir was transplanted to a patient at the PGI, an official spokesperson said. She disclosed that an Army man, aged 39, unfortunately suffered from intracranial haemorrhage and was admitted to the Command Hospital. He was declared brain dead by doctors there. The wife of the patient took a noble decision of donating the organs of her husband. As no recipient was available at the Command Hospital for liver with the same blood group, they decided to share the liver with the PGI, Chandigarh, the spokesperson said. She revealed that the liver was successfully harvested by a team of experts from the Command Hospital and the PGI and transported to the PGI around 10 am on Saturday. This was successfully transplanted to a female patient from Patiala, the PGI spokesperson said. Islamabad, February 29 Pakistan and India are engaged in a bitter contest to win over the United States amid the ever-present trust deficit, Pakistan diplomatic sources said on Sunday. On Sunday, a four-member Pakistani delegation was in Washington to attend the sixth round of ministerial-level Pakistan-US strategic dialogue to be held on Monday. The delegation is headed by Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz. The talks will take stock of the entire gamut of bilateral relations between the two countries. The US delegation will be led by John Kerry. Official sources said the two sides could discuss the Pathankot attack apart from the scheduled agenda and Pakistan will try to convince the US about its sincerity to defeat terrorism. A senior diplomat engaged in the Pakistan-US talks said India had sent a bag full of complaints against Pakistan. "For the time being, the balance is in our favour. The US is appreciating our efforts against terrorism and also giving less weight to the Indian complaints. But there is a bitter war to win over the US," he said. He referred to the recent F-16 jets deal that irked India. "The US did not lend an ear to India. On the Pathankot attack too, the US seems satisfied with our efforts," he added. Another diplomat said the Indian lobby had been pressing the US to use its influence and force Pakistan to act against the JeM chief and other accused wanted by India. "John Kerry is likely to discuss the Indian complaint box with Sartaj Aziz but there is no chance of a rebuke from Washington. Our ties with the US are positive and growing. At this point, we are ahead of India in the war to win the US but their lobby is also strong. There is a tug of war," he remarked. Defence analyst Lt. General Talat Masood (retd) said the Indian criticism on the F16 deal was unjustifiable as the New Delhi was continuously purchasing latest weapons and technologies from the world, including from the US. He said between 2011 and 2015, India was the only country to import major weapons. "The war against terrorism is a global war and Pakistan's efforts are laudable. India should realise and appreciate the services of Pakistan against terrorism, rather than creating baseless propaganda," he added. General Masood said India was against the development and prosperity of Pakistan and had always tried to harm any step that can contribute to Pakistan positively. Another defence analyst, Mohammed Khan, said the Indian lobby in the US Congress was involved in propaganda against Pakistan. "The US also has strategic relationship with India but Pakistan never opposed it. The US is deeply involved in Afghanistan. The US and NATO depend on Pakistan due to its geographical location. This is their need to empower Pakistan to get positive results in the war against terrorism," he added. He said the international community acknowledged the efforts and sacrifices of Pakistan in the war against terror. The past few months have seen ups and downs in the ties between the two South Asian countries the peak coming when Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a surprise visit in December and the dip after the January 2 attack on Pathankot airbase in India. Jaish-e-Mohammed, an outlawed group in Pakistan, was believed to be involved in the attack, but Islamabad claims it has found no evidence against the JeM or its chief Masood Azhar. Pakistani authorities are in contact with the Indian counterparts to collect more evidence that might prove JeM links with Pathankot attack. Washington has until now appreciated Pakistan's actions after the Pathankot incident but New Delhi wanted Islamabad to 'do more'. India has also been updating the US and complaining against Pakistan's 'go slow' policy. IANS tricountyleader.com expired on 09/23/2022 and is pending renewal or deletion. Backorder Domain NASHVILLE -- FlowBelow Aero's quick-release wheel covers are now a data-book option on Daimler Trucks North America's Cascadia Evolution model. FlowBelow made the announcement Sunday at the ATA's Technology & Maintenance Council's Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition. The tractor wheel covers reduce aerodynamic turbulence and drag on the truck by streamlining airflow over the tractors drive wheels. The wheel covers are made in the USA using extremely durable and flexible thermoplastic polyolefin (TPO) material commonly used in automotive applications. FlowBelow says the quick-release feature provides instantaneous and tool-free access to the wheel end with its patented push-and-turn latching system. Daimler Trucks North America continues to lead the industry with the most technologically advanced, fuel efficient trucks available, said Josh Butler, founder and CEO of FlowBelow Aero. With the option to include the FlowBelow Quick-Release Wheel Covers to the Cascadia Evolution truck, we are providing increased value while also laying the groundwork for further aerodynamic enhancements. As part of the supplier agreement, FlowBelow products will be offered on all new Cascadia Evolution trucks built at Daimlers truck plants, as well as made available for aftermarket purchase and installation through all Freightliner dealers in North America. Butler told reporters at the TMC press conference that a similar deal with DTNA for the FlowBelow tractor drive wheel fairings will soon be announced. Also at the press conference, FlowBelow announced that C.R. England is equipping 200 new Western Star 5700 XE tractors with FlowBelows complete fuel saving Tractor AeroKit system. FlowBelow says the fuel savings provided by the Tractor AeroKit typically provides a return on investment for long haul trucking fleets in one year or less. CHICAGO Young transgender children allowed to live openly as the gender they identify with fared as well psychologically as other kids in a small study that suggests parental support may be the key. Rates of depression and anxiety were equal in the study, which compared 73 transgender kids ages 3-12 with 73 non-transgender youngsters. The trans kids also fared as well on both measures as a group of their non-transgender siblings. Rates of anxiety among trans kids were a smidge higher than national averages for children of the same age, but otherwise they matched national norms, said lead author Kristina Olson, an associate psychology professor at the University of Washington. She said its the largest study to examine the psychological health of transgender youth who have socially transitioned. Parents recruited from support groups, conferences and a special website rated their kids well-being on a standard mental-health scale. The parents werent randomly selected, and Olson acknowledged parents of kids who arent well-adjusted may have opted not to take part. The study certainly suggests that family support is linked to better mental health, although that idea wasnt tested directly, and Olson said the results dont prove that is the explanation for the childrens well-being. The results were published Friday in the journal Pediatrics. The findings are truly stunning, given previous studies showing high rates of mental-health problems including suicidal behavior in transgender children, Dr. Ilana Sherer, a Dublin, California, pediatrician, wrote in a Pediatrics editorial. Most previous research is in children who havent come out, Olson said. Study children had not had any sex reassignment treatment, and some parents initially opposed letting their kids come out.Micah Heumann, an academic adviser at the University of Illinoiss Champaign campus, was among study participants. His 10-year-old child, Daniel, was born a girl and named Naima but has identified as a boy ever since he knew about gender, Heumann said. In second grade, the family agreed to let Daniel legally change his name and, at the boys request, his school agreed to go along with the change, even letting Daniel use the boys bathroom. He is very well-adjusted but still feels stress because he knows not everyone is so accepting, Heumann said. Daniel was very anxious before coming out at school but refused the option of keeping the secret, Heumann recalled. He looked at me and said, Dad, I cant. Its harder to live a lie and not as I am truly than to deal with this anxiety right now. Heumann said the family reacted to Daniels choice with mixed feelings, mourning the loss of a daughter but never wavering in love and support for Daniel. Olson said the results dont apply to all transgender kids, especially those whose parents oppose their change in identity. Opponents of allowing these youngsters to adopt names, hairstyles, clothes and pronouns opposite their birth gender have argued that kids so young cannot possibly know their gender at such an early age, said Sherer, the editorial writer. Letting these kids live openly as the gender they identify with can be an incredibly affirming process, Sherer said, showing the child that their identity is supported. She was not involved in the research. In a surprise worthy of a Hollywood thriller, the crusading journalists of Spotlight who exposed the Catholic churchs protecting of pedophile priests took the best-picture prize Sunday night at the 88th Academy Awards. Leonardo DiCaprio, on the other hand, won his first Oscar as expected as best actor for The Revenant, portraying a frontier scout fighting for survival and seeking justice after hes mauled by a bear and left for dead by his fellow travelers. On a night punctuated early and often by host Chris Rock and others regarding diversity in Hollywood or the lack thereof in the 20 white acting nominees Spotlight won only two Oscars, for best picture and best original screenplay. This film gave a voice to survivors, and this Oscar amplifies that voice, which we hope can become a choir that will resonate all the way to the Vatican, said the films producer Michael Sugar. Tell (Pope) Francis its time to protect the children and restore the faith. A favorite to win, The Revenant won Oscars in three categories, including Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu winning best director for the second consecutive year. But while leading with 12 nominations, The Revenant fell short of the top prize, and all films trailed behind the technical domination of the artistic action film Mad Max: Fury Road, which led the night with six Oscar wins in categories ranging from film editing to production design. For DiCaprio, the Oscar came in his fifth acting nomination. He took the opportunity, in talking about the nature setting of his film, to speak to environmental issues. Saying The Revenant spoke to mans relationship to the natural world, he added that climate change is real, it is happening right now we need to work together, for the indigenous people of the world, for the children of the world. Brie Larson won best actress in her first nomination as a woman held captive for years in Room, while Swedish actress Alicia Vikander won best supporting actress for her role in the transgender drama The Danish Girl. British actor Mark Rylance scored another of the nights upsets by winning best supporting actor for his Soviet spy in Bridge of Spies, taking home an Oscar many thought Sylvester Stallone would win in a sentimental nod for his seventh performance as Rocky Balboa in Creed, earning his first nomination in 39 years. In a ceremony sped up by winners speeches being accompanied by thank-yous on a scroll at the bottom of TV screens, host Chris Rock worked to keep the show lively with comedy sketches and pre-taped bits, almost always focused on the hot-button diversity issue. This followed Rocks opening monologue that zinged Hollywoods annual honors, otherwise known as the White Peoples Choice Awards, he joked. Rock was rolling with his comments, from in this years In Memoriam segment, its just going to be black people who were shot going to the movies to Is Hollywood racist? Damn right its racist. But its like sorority racist. Its not about boycotting anything, Rock summed up, addressing another part of the diversity discussion. We want opportunity. Social issues also took center stage when Vice President Joe Biden, a longtime advocate against sexual assault, appeared to introduce Lady Gagas powerful performance of Til It Happens to You, the best-song nominee from the campus-rape documentary The Hunting Ground. While Spotlight took home the original screenplay prize, The Big Short, a comedy about the 2008 U.S. housing market collapse, took home the adapted screenplay award. The Big Short director and co-writer Adam McKay in his acceptance speech tied in his films message to this years presidential election: If you dont want big money to control government, dont vote for candidates who take money from big banks, oil or weirdo billionaires. Star Wars: The Force Awakens, the blockbuster that has grossed more than $2 billion worldwide since December, won no awards despite five nominations. A jury trial for one of two brothers charged in a 2013 quadruple homicide begins Monday in Tulsa County District Court. In advance of the long-awaited trial in the highly publicized case, the Tulsa World revisited family members of victims who were found shot to death with their hands tied behind their backs in an apartment near 61st Street and Peoria Avenue. Demetria Jackson was working a double shift at McDonalds in Okmulgee when she received an urgent-sounding text from her aunt. When her cousin arrived shortly afterward, she immediately asked, Who? I didnt say, What Whats up? Nothing. I said Who? Jackson recalls. He said, You need to clock out right now. That same day Jan. 7, 2013 Charon Powell was operating a forklift in a pallet yard she owns in north Tulsa when she got a really strange phone call. Kayetie and Rebeika are done, she heard. The womens paths would later cross after they learned that Powells twin daughters and Jacksons mother were among four women shot to death in an apartment near 61st Street and Peoria Avenue. Police found the women with gunshot wounds to their heads and their hands tied behind their backs in Rebeika Powells apartment at a complex called Fairmont Terrace at the time. I didnt see how a thing like that could happen, you know, Charon Powell said in a recent interview. Friends and family were watching it on TV the breaking news. They just kept saying it, over and over and over, was how Demetria Jackson remembered a local station reporting her mothers death that day. For three years, local media would continue reporting on the quadruple homicide through the lens of the Tulsa County District Court proceedings of Cedric Poore, 42, and his 35-year-old brother, James Poore, whom prosecutors allege murdered the women during a robbery. A jury trial begins Monday for James Poore. Cedric Poore will be tried later. The brothers each face four counts of first-degree murder and two counts of armed robbery in the shooting deaths of 23-year-olds Rebeika Powell and Kayetie Powell Melchor; Julie Jackson, 55; and Misty Nunley, 33. The four Demetria Jackson said her mother, who was a neighbor at Fairmont Terrace, had formed a relationship with Rebeika Powell and Kayetie Powell Melchor, calling them her adopted daughters after Demetria moved to Okmulgee. She would talk about the girls all the time, every day, Jackson recalled. If you got to know her, youd love her to death, said Jackson, describing her mother as fun and goofy. The twins were also friends with Nunley, who was going through a hard time but trying to turn her life around with the help of their friendship, Nunleys mother, Cheryl Nunley, said at the time. The Tulsa World was unable to reach Misty Nunleys family for this story, but Cheryl Nunley has said her daughter was a mother and a young grandmother whose goal professionally was to return to working with the mentally and physically challenged. The twins were working in food service at the time, their mother said, and each had a young child. Born and raised in Kellyville, they had lived in Tulsa for just a year or two before they were killed, Charon Powell said, describing her daughters as country girls who didnt have an evil bone in their body, but had begun abusing drugs after moving to the apartment complex. The way I feel about what happened to my daughters is, in the country, we live different than they do here in the city, Powell said. They moved to Tulsa and didnt realize how much crime and evil and stuff went on here you know, how it worked because they werent raised around it. Powell said her daughters were planning to move and had recently picked out a new apartment before they were killed. The families When you kill somebody, you dont only kill that person, but you kill a lot of the family along with it, Charon Powell explained. Maybe not physically, but mentally. Its unexplainable, the things that your families go through when that happens. Sitting in her living room Feb. 19, Powell said she doesnt think shell ever know for sure whether her grandson saw the murders. Rebeika Powells 3-year-old son was in the apartment when the women were killed, and hes since repeated the same phrase to describe the incident. I hide, and they hurt my mommy, says Powell, making a ducking motion to demonstrate her grandsons account. The now-6-year-old has been living with Powell since then and was asked to leave five schools by the time he reached kindergarten because of anger issues. He was, you know, extremely hurt, because he also was so close to his mom, Powell said. So he really had a rough time. And he had nightmares. But over the past several months, hes improved probably 75 percent, Powell said. Whether thats due to age or more understanding, hes been so blessed to have a counselor working with him from the beginning, Powell says, adding that she also probably wouldnt have been able to make it without the therapy. But other family members havent seen such improvement. Kayetie Powell Melchors daughter 5 years old when she lost her mother recently had a nervous breakdown, Powell said, in which she just stood and screamed and hollered and looked in the mirror and pulled her hair and was like, Momma, momma. Why did you leave me? I love you. Comforted by her childrens father as she sat in his living room on Wednesday, Demetria Jackson said shes constantly reminded of her mothers death. I see it every day. I hear her every day. It wont go away, she said. Jackson said the behavior of her children and her own relationships have suffered since her mothers death. They ruined us. They dont understand what they did to us, Jackson said. No matter what they were on or what they were doing, nobody deserves to die like like that. Anything like that. Especially over drugs, money. Witnesses have claimed that they saw the Poore brothers divide up drugs, money and jewelry stolen from the apartment where the women were killed. Defense attorneys have contested that testimony, accusing witnesses of lying for their own benefit. The proceedings James and Cedric Poore were arrested Feb. 6, 2013, almost a month after the homicides. They had both previously served prison time for armed robbery and have since been held without bail at the Tulsa Jail. Prosecutors are not seeking the death penalty, meaning that, if found guilty, the Poores will face life prison sentences either with or without parole for each murder count. The brothers initially were set for separate trials in January and February 2015, but court records indicate that pretrial motions, hearings and appeals regarding various issues pushed their trial dates to that spring, then the fall, and finally to this February. Despite the amount of time thats passed, Charon Powell says it feels like she received the news of her daughters deaths just last week. Because, see, the evidence has never quit coming in, you know, Powell said. New things have continued to come in for the last three years. So its never gotten old, because theres always something getting added to it. Powell pointed to an incident in October when prosecutors announced that, in their preparation for James Poores trial, they discovered that police had failed to hand over a significant amount of evidence gathered in the cases initial investigation. After that, District Judge Kurt Glassco postponed James Poores trial to its current date to allow attorneys to review the new evidence, and Cedric Poores February trial date was stricken and has yet to be rescheduled. While conceding that the trials delay was frustrating, Tulsa County District Attorney Steve Kunzweiler recalled at the time that police involved in the initial investigation were getting calls every day with a new tip leading them to hunt down that rabbit trail. Kunzweiler said the approximate month it took to develop the Poores as suspects and make arrests consisted of days with a lot of fear in our community. That fear is evident in archived media reports on initiatives that were prompted by the slayings to improve the quality of life and reduce the high crime rate in the area around the apartment complex where the women were killed. The hours Powell has devoted to following the case become apparent when she references court transcripts shes read and conversations shes had with attorneys on both sides. Jackson said shes depended on Powell to update her on the case rather than follow it herself because its a reminder of her mother being killed, and I dont do reminders very well. Jackson said she will attend James Poores trial up until they show the pictures. I cant I cant look at stuff like that, she said, adding that the images have stuck in her mind since she first saw them. While Powell expects that she already knows most of the information that will be presented at the trial, she says shes scared of what she doesnt know. And I dont even know why Im scared, but Im scared to see what (the trial) does do, because its been such an emotional roller coaster, she said. Three years, to me, seems like last week. The time has moved by so quickly, and I, you know, I just, I dont know. The Vision proposal on Tulsas April 5 ballot will include $30 million to upgrade several Tulsa County fairgrounds facilities to accommodate growing events. Chief Deputy County Commissioner Michael Willis said Expo Square represents economic impact for both the county and the city of Tulsa, which envelops the fairgrounds from 15th Street to 21st Street west of Yale Avenue. Were obviously very appreciative of them (city officials) putting the fairgrounds in Vision, Willis said. But the other thing to remember is that the city of Tulsa is the primary beneficiary. Willis said the events the fairgrounds hosts benefit the city in sales tax when the thousands of people who attend them eat at nearby restaurants and fill nearby hotels. The $30 million figure in Tulsas Vision package was pared down from more than twice that amount, which the county had been hoping to get to address its needs. The countys place in the citys Vision plan occurred near the end of the efforts to draft the proposal, largely due to politics, after county officials said they would seek to extend one-sixth of Vision 2025s expiring 0.6 percent sales tax to meet the countys needs, which, when combined with the citys plan, would effectively raise sales taxes for people shopping in the city. City officials and county officials were able to reach a compromise, leading to the $30 million figure. Willis said one major expansion at the fairgrounds would add a roughly $2.55 million covered outdoor exercise arena to the Mustang Arena. Its really an expansion that will help us with our horse-show business, Willis said. Several of those shows have grown in terms of the number of heads of horses and cattle. The fairgrounds hosts several of the nations and worlds premier horse shows every year, he noted. These horse shows keep growing and growing, Willis said. In order for us to keep them, we need to be able to stall those animals. Another $5.1 million will go toward an upgrade to the Super Duty Arena. The Super Duty Barn and Arena is the main arena with seating and some of the other amenities that these big shows need for their competitions, Willis said. Its sort of the showcase arena. When we are not using the Pavilion for something like that, the Super Duty Barn is our main arena. A major portion of the funding in Tulsas Vision package, $8.4 million, would go toward general Expo Square maintenance, paving and fencing, he said. Its really just a cleanup and making the whole area look more presentable, Willis said. Were trying to really make it sparkle. The county will have a separate proposal on the ballot April 5, seeking a renewal of the remaining 0.05 percent of the expiring sales tax. Officials have said that money would likely pay for roads and levees, park projects, and buildings/capital improvements. 1904 Theodore Roosevelt appoints Panama Canal commission President Theodore Roosevelt appointed a seven-member commission to facilitate completion of the Panama Canal, which he later told friends was his most important international achievement. France had started building a canal in 1881 across the isthmus of Panama, but gave up after 22,000 workers died. After a Panamanian revolt in 1903 that was supported in part by the U.S. Navy, Panama became a protectorate of the U.S. until 1939. The U.S. bought the French equipment and began work on the canal in 1904. The 48-mile canal connecting the Atlantic Ocean with the Pacific Ocean was opened 10 years later. 1940 Hattie McDaniel becomes first black to win Oscar Hattie McDaniel became the first black person to win an Oscar when she was honored for her role as Mammy in Gone With the Wind. Her award was one of 10 given to Gone With the Wind in the 1940 Academy Awards. Prior to her famous role, McDaniel sang a duet with Will Rogers in John Fords Judge Priest, and starred in Little Colonel, with Shirley Temple. McDaniel, a native of Wichita who died of breast cancer in 1952 at the age of 57, was honored posthumously by the Postal Service in 2006 with her picture on a stamp. 1968 Civil Disorders panel warnsof U.S. with separate races The Presidents National Advisory Commission on Civil Disorders (the Kerner Commission) gave this warning to Americans: Our nation is moving toward two societies, one black, one white separate and unequal. Unless drastic and costly remedies are begun at once, the commission said, there will be a continuing polarization of the American community and, ultimately, the destruction of basic democratic values. The commission said white racism was chiefly to blame for the explosive conditions that sparked riots in American cities, but warned black separatists can only relegate blacks to a permanently inferior economic state. 1972 Nixon wins praise for historic week-long trip to China President Richard Nixon won bipartisan praise from congressional leaders for the results of his historic and just completed week-long trip to the Peoples Republic of China. It marked the first time a U.S. president had visited the PRC, which at that time considered the U.S. one of its foes, and the visit ended 25 years of separation between the two sides. It was hailed as Nixons greatest international achievement because it opened trade dialogue with the Far East. Nixon told the leaders that Chinese Premier Chou En-lai had invited Senate Majority Leader Mike Mansfield, DMont., and Minority Leader Hugh Scott, R-Pa., to visit. BY U.S. REP. TOM COLE As the presidents time in office grinds to an end, I am disappointed but not surprised that he continues to advocate for the closure of Guantanamo Bay. Campaign promise or not, the dangerous terrorists at Guantanamo do not belong on American soil. Unfortunately, the presidents latest insistence on closing the terrorist detention center is the same tired plan hes unsuccessfully pushed for the past seven years. And just like the last seven years, his latest proposal is dangerous, contrary to federal law and deeply unpopular with both parties in Congress and with the American people. In discussing the role of Guantanamo and why the presidents plan is ill-conceived, it is important to understand how and why it came to be a holding place for terrorists in the first place. Located on the southeastern tip of Cuba, Guantanamo (also called Gitmo) has been used by the United States as a naval base for more than a century. However, it wasnt until after the despicable acts of terror on 9/11 that Gitmo also became the site for a terrorist detention center. Since 2002, hundreds of suspected and known terrorists have been detained there; among them is the mastermind behind the 9/11 attacks. In addition, individuals are detained at Gitmo if they are enemy combatants captured on the battlefield in Iraq or Afghanistan, or if they have confirmed ties to Islamic terrorist groups like the Taliban and Al-Qaeda. These are the worst of the worst. Moving detainees to prisons in communities across our country is a bad idea. Not only is there concern that their imprisonment on American soil could lead to terrorist acts of retaliation, but there are legitimate concerns that the communities could become targets for future terrorist events. Considering that the 91 remaining Gitmo detainees are thought to be the most dangerous, including 46 that are designated too dangerous for transfer, I agree that the concerns held by many Americans are not unfounded. According to a report by the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, it is believed that 30 percent of former Gitmo detainees who have been released have returned to the battlefield. In fact, around the same time that President Obama announced his Gitmo closure plan, it was reported that a former detainee was a suspect in an ISIS-inspired attack in Spain. Beyond posing unnecessary danger to American communities, the presidents Gitmo plan lacks necessary detail and substance Congress specifically requested, including how to implement and pay for his plan. But more importantly, his incomplete plan is against current law. Since a Democrat-led Congress defunded his executive order to close Gitmo in 2009, President Obama has signed into law language in the National Defense Authorization Act and other legislation that prohibits the transfer of terror suspects out of the prison. Even the Obama Administrations own Attorney General Loretta Lynch recently acknowledged the law does not allow Gitmo detainees to be transferred to the United States. For me and for most Americans, the presidents plan to import terrorists into the United States is incomprehensible. The proposal he recently laid out is unlawful, unpopular, unwise and highly unlikely to ever be approved by the Congress of the United States. Oklahomas Supreme Court recently ruled that it is OK to use public taxpayer dollars to fund private and religious schools. Taxpayers, beware! On the surface, vouchers or an Education Savings Account sound very appealing to some. Choice seems like a very logical thing to offer parents when it comes to educating their child. But, if we were to consider seriously the real impact of such a plan on Oklahoma, would we still be eager to promote it? As has been said before, public education was not simply designed to serve the public, it was designed to create it. While public education is not the best placement for every student, it certainly is for more than 90 percent of Oklahoma students. It serves to advance learning and fosters respect for cultural, ideological and religious differences for all who attend. Over the next 14 years, vouchers could siphon as much as $2 billion from public schools in order to pay for students who will never attend a public school. This diversion of money will have a dramatic impact on public school resources, services, and programs. It is simply wrong for policymakers who support vouchers to state that schools would not miss the money because we would no longer be educating a student who leaves. The logic is no different than if you were to divert taxpayer monies from providing police, fire, and other essential services that we expect our government to provide for the benefit of society as a whole. What is the real intent of these policymakers who are impassioned with creating yet another form of voucher? Is it to allow low-income families the opportunity to find a better place for educating their child? Since most private school tuition is much higher than a voucher is worth, most low-income families could not take advantage of them, while families who can afford the difference would be getting a nice discount. It is a means to subsidize with taxpayer monies private and religious schools. Will vouchers lead to greater social inequities? These are very important questions that must be asked before we consider creating another voucher the Education Savings Act. Certainly as parents we desire for our children to be in a high-quality, academically challenging, highly supportive and safe learning environment, one where they can thrive and take advantage of the many opportunities a school has to offer. It is up to school leaders, boards of education, and committed parents and community members to ensure our public schools are viable places of learning. Offering vouchers instead of transforming an ineffective school for the benefit of all students including the community seems narrow-minded and self-serving of those seeking vouchers. In terms of public vouchers, lets all hope for Oklahoma and the benefit of a civilized society that the real aim is indeed educational quality, not influenced by religion, race, economic, or social position. Public educations primary aim is the promotion of learning for all, but an equally important outcome is creating learners that understand and embrace the importance of living and working together despite our deepest differences. I would strongly caution policymakers in their attempts to advance the proliferation of vouchers; especially, when we have not adequately funded our common education system in the first place. These voucher programs may seem like a great option for now, but lets hope they do not erode the interconnectedness and sense of community that our public schools have long provided. Kirt Hartzler, Ed.D., is superintendent of Union Public Schools Monday-Saturday Just Between Friends The Just Between Friends spring consignment sale starts Sunday at the Exchange Center at Expo Square, 4145 E. 21st St. The event brings together dozens of consignors so shoppers can find the best deals on clothing, toys and supplies for kids, home decorations and more. JBF Tulsa offers a wide variety of gently used childrens and maternity clothing, as well as shoes, baby equipment, household furniture, outside playground equipment, nursery/maternity items, books, software, videos and lots of toys. The event runs from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday-Friday and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Admission is $10 for adults and free for those age 18 and younger. For more, visit tulsa.jbfsale.com. Tuesday Breaking Benjamin The hard rock band Breaking Benjamin is set to rock the Brady Theater this week. The Pennsylvania rockers will perform Tuesday, with doors opening at 7 p.m. The group Starset is scheduled to kick off the show. Breaking Benjamins fifth album, Dark Before Dawn, was released last summer. Tickets start at $35 for reserved seating and $42.50 for general admission pit and are available at bradytheater.com, by phone at 866-977-6849, at area Reasors stores and at Starship Records and Tapes, 1241 S. Lewis Ave. Thursday Billy Currington Country music star Billy Currington will perform at 8 p.m. Thursday at The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa. The award-winning singer-songwriter has released six albums, with hits including Must Be Doin Somethin Right, People Are Crazy and Let Me Down Easy. Tickets to the 21-and-older show start at $55 and are available at hardrockcasinotulsa.com. Friday, Saturday Tulsa Gridiron For nearly 80 years, the Tulsa Gridiron has been lampooning and lambasting local luminaries and lunkheads with satirical songs and skits that skewer city politics and national pop culture. This years show is titled The Farce Awakens, or Ding-A-Ling Brothers Bynum & Bartlett Circus. Rebecca Ungerman returns as director, with Jordan Hehl and Christy Lynn Stalcup serving as music directors. Proceeds from the Tulsa Gridiron help to fund scholarships for the next generation of journalists. Performances are 8 p.m. Friday-Saturday at the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame, 101 E. First St. Tickets are $30-$80 individual seating and a table of eight is $400-$600. For more, call 918-520-0934, or visit tulsagridiron.org. One of the candidates for Chairman in the People's National Movement's internal election says there is a major detachment between those in office and people at the grass root level. Kenneth Butcher says things need to change from the inside. What a range. I play cops. Havent done too many doctors though, Rodger Corser recently told TV Tonight. But thats all about to change with the ever-dependable Corser now set to star in Nines upcoming drama Doctor Doctor. News Corp reported on the weekend he has the lead in the Essential Media drama, an $11.6m series that will generate 800 jobs filming in Sydney and Mudgee. The synopsis for the series reads, When he is knocked off his pedestal and on to the Impaired Registrants Program, prodigal Sydney surgeon and party boy Hugh Knight must return to his family home in rural Whyhope where he might learn to swallow his pride and mend his ways or not. Corser is currently appearing in The Doctor Blake Mysteries, while Nine is yet to formally announce the new series. Business / Companies by Bianca Mlilo THE People's Own Savings Bank (POSB) says it is ready to roll out a mortgage scheme to hundreds of its clients to support housing development in the country.The state-owned bank has already received the licence to provide mortgage lending, a critical facility in tackling accommodation shortages. An estimated 1,25 million housing units are needed to clear the housing backlog by 2018.POSB public relations officer, Simukayi Mutamangira, said the bank has the capacity to sustain the mortgage facility as it was performing well. "We're now going to mortgage finance where we're going to be supporting those involved in building projects," he said."We know Zimbabweans are very passionate about owning their own houses and this is one project that we're taking on board and we hope that in the next couple of weeks we'll be up and running."Meanwhile, the bank donated an engine powered borehole to Portbury Clinic in Mbalabala area on Friday. In his address while handing over the donation to the community, POSB chief executive officer Admore Kandlela said the bank was committed to assisting needy communities."Our wish and intention in giving this borehole is to help pregnant women, nurses and young children acess clean drinking water," said Kandlela. The bank is involved in various corporate social responsibility activities in different parts of the country. 11:36 a.m., Feb. 29, 2016--The University of Delaware community is invited to attend the 2016 Corporate Governance Symposium hosted by the John L. Weinberg Center for Corporate Governance at UDs Alfred Lerner College of Business and Economics on Tuesday, March 15. The symposium will take place at UDs Clayton Hall and will provide attendees with cutting edge governance discussion and debate, and will begin with a panel of pubic company directors, investors, proxy advisory firms, other representatives from the corporate and investor community, and the Delaware judiciary, including: Les A. Brun, chairman and chief executive officer of Sarr Group, LLC; chairman of the board, Broadridge Financial Solutions Inc. and CDK Global Inc.; director, Hewlett Packard Enterprise Company, Merck and Co. Inc. and NXT Capital Inc. Margaret M. Foran, chief governance officer, senior vice president and corporate secretary, Prudential Financial Inc.; director, Occidental Petroleum Corp. Michael Garland, assistant comptroller for environmental, social and governance, New York City Office of the Comptroller. J. Travis Laster, vice chancellor, Delaware Court of Chancery. Robert M. McCormick, chief policy officer, Glass Lewis and Co. Patrick S. McGurn, special counsel and head of strategic research and analysis, Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS). Allie Rutherford, principal, CamberView Partners LLC. Thomas Sandall, Sandell Asset Management Corp. Anne Sheehan, director of corporate governance, California State Teachers Retirement System (CalSTRS). Charles Elson, Edgar S. Woolard, Jr. Chair of Corporate Governance, director of the Weinberg Center and professor of finance, will moderate the discussion, which will ask each panelist to share what matters most to them in 2016. The symposium will continue with a special academic paper presentation by Lucien Bebchuk, who is the William J. Friedman and Alicia Townsend Friedman Professor of Law, Economics, and Finance and director of the Program on Corporate Governance at Harvard Law School. Bebchuks presentation will be followed by the presentation of three academic papers on topics of critical importance to boards and institutional investors today. These papers include: Shareholder Power and Corporate Innovation: Evidence from Hedge Fund Activism by Alon Brav, Duke University (presenter); Wei Jang, Columbia University; Song Ma, Duke University; Xuan Tian, Indiana University (Bloomington). Discussant: Sabastian V. Niles, Wachtell, Lipton, Rosen and Katz. Who Controls Corporate Charters? Shareholder Activism and Corporate Charter Amendments? by Geeyoung Min, University of Virginia Law School (presenter). Discussant: Myron T. Steel, Potter, Anderson and Corroon, and former chief justice, Delaware Supreme Court. Banker Loyalty in Mergers and Acquisitions by Andrew F. Tuch, Washington University School of Law (presenter). Discussant: J. Travis Laster, vice chancellor, Delaware Court of Chancery. The 2016 Corporate Governance Symposium is free to attend. Click here to register. 2 p.m., Feb. 29, 2016--Newark Police are investigating a drug-related home invasion that occurred at approximately 1:20 a.m., Saturday, Feb. 27, in the 200 block of East Main Street. The resident of the home, a 21 year-old University of Delaware student, told police he was at home with two friends watching a movie when there was a knock at the door. He answered the door and was immediately struck in the face by an object, presumably a handgun. Three suspects then entered the residence. Money, identification documents and drugs were were stolen from the residence, as well as the victims cell phones. The suspects were in the house for approximately 5 minutes and fled out the rear door. None of the victims required medical attention. The three suspects are described as light-skinned black males, approximately 18-22 years of age, wearing dark-colored sweat pants, sweat shirts with the hoods up and bandanas covering their faces. All suspects were armed with black handguns. Based on the preliminary investigation, Newark Police said they believe that the incident is drug related and that the residence was targeted by the suspects. Anyone with additional information on this incident should contact Detective Daniel Bystricky at 302-366-7100 ext. 3136 or Daniel.Bystricky@cj.state.de.us. Anonymous tips can be texted to 302NPD, with the message to TIP411. Information can also be provided anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-TIP-3333 or www.tipsubmit.com, where a reward may be available. Members of the UD community may download a free smartphone app, LiveSafe, that lets users submit tips to police, receive important broadcast notifications and contact the University of Delaware Police Department directly. To learn more, visit this UD Police website. Visit this website to receive a UD Crime Alert email whenever an article about a police investigation is posted on UDaily. A.T. Moffett of the College of Arts and Sciences discusses the project with two young men at the Christina Cultural Arts Center. 2:48 p.m., Feb. 29, 2016--The music and poetry have been written, the history studied, works of art painted, dances choreographed and months of rehearsals completed all in preparation for a series of performances of Same Story Different Countries, a project exploring racial issues in the U.S. and South Africa through the arts. But another part of the multidisciplinary project is still wrapping up, as a dozen or so Wilmington, Delaware, residents work to share their photographs and stories about their community. Some of those volunteers met Thursday, Feb. 25, at the downtown Christina Cultural Arts Center (CCAC), one of the University of Delawares partners in the project, to continue their work that will be exhibited at the final performance of Same Story, scheduled for March 13 at the Baby Grand in Wilmington. The Leda family, who joined the project because 12-year-old Jahnae already enjoyed photography, reviewed the images theyve taken around Delawares largest city. Jahnae showed his photos of birds and squirrels, describing the feeling of those images as peaceful, while his parents, Colleen and Jahtenny Leda, focused more on people, buildings and industrial scenes. Jahtenny Leda, a longshoreman at the Port of Wilmington, has taken photos along the citys waterways, showing not only the redeveloped recreational Riverfront area but also some long-closed manufacturing sites and an area where homeless people gather. I like the idea of taking pictures of a neighborhood, said Colleen Leda, because if you go back and look at them in 10 years, you know it will have changed. Ive lived in my neighborhood for 14 years, and Ive seen it change a lot. For Kim Graham, a lifelong Wilmington resident who is a director at CCAC and a 1987 UD graduate, her purpose in taking photos for the project is to create thought-provoking images. She has photographed commercial buildings along Market Street, for example, showing the ground-floor modern retail spaces in contrast to the more old-fashioned upper stories that often reflect the buildings history. One of Grahams favorite photos for the project is a view outside Wilmingtons Louis L. Redding City-County Building that includes a statue of Redding. The civil rights pioneer, Delawares first African American lawyer, argued for school desegregation in the landmark Brown v. Board of Education case that went to the U.S. Supreme Court. Grahams photos of the Redding statue include a large clock and a Dont Walk traffic signal in the foreground, which might make people think, she said, about whether progress has halted, or if time is running out, in the struggle for civil rights and equal education. The volunteers all shared their photos and also told their stories about taking them at the CCAC workshop. UD student research assistant Rachel Austin and adjunct faculty member A.T. Moffett joined Lynnette Overby, professor of theatre and an artistic director for the Same Story project, in interviewing the participants and recording their stories. For more about Same Story Different Countries, see the previous UDaily article. March 4-5: Dance minor concert Campus performances of Same Story Different Countries will be held at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, March 4 and 5, as this years Dance Minor spring concert, in Mitchell Hall. On Friday, March 11, lecture-demonstrations will be held at 9:30 a.m. and noon, followed by an evening performance with other South African artists, all at the Schwartz Theatre in Dover, Delaware. On Saturday, March 12, a 5:30 p.m. performance will be held in Mitchell Hall, as part of the Master Players world music concert featuring 6ixwire, in collaboration with the "Same Story" project. A final performance will take place at 3 p.m. Sunday, March 13, in the Baby Grand, Wilmington, where the community volunteers photos and stories will be on exhibit. Article by Ann Manser Photos by Evan Krape A plan on reforms of the Ukrainian Verkhovna Rada will be presented today in Brussels in the scope of Ukrainian Week at the European Parliament. Verkhovna Rada Chairman Volodymyr Groysman said this during a live broadcast from Brussels, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. Today the action pan on reforms of the Ukrainian parliament and its transformation into the European modern institution will be presented, the speaker said. According to him, the plan on reforming the Ukrainian parliament has been elaborated over the last half a year jointly with experts from the European Parliament. A professional government, a professional parliament of European model will ensure the qualitative anti-crisis plan, Groysman said. As a reminder, on February 29 through March 2 the Ukrainian Week will take place in the capital of Belgium, where the reform of the Verkhovna Rada will be discussed. iy Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban opposes the automatic extension of sanctions against Russia. He said this during the meeting with the Hungarian ambassadors on Monday, an Ukrinform correspondent reports. "The serious debate on the implementation of the Minsk Agreements is expected to be held in the EU at the end of the first half-year period this year. In other words, there will be no automatic extension of sanctions against Russia. The Minsk Agreements should be analyzed in an impartial and calm way before we [the EU] make the decision," Orban said. Hungarian Prime Minister has repeatedly expressed unwillingness to automatically extend sanctions against Russia this summer. ol News / Africa by Staff reporter Abuja - Nigeria's Supreme Court on Friday upheld a death sentence handed out nine years ago to a Christian pastor for murdering a female member of his congregation and trying to kill five others.Pentecostal preacher Emeka Ezeugo, popularly known as "Reverend King", challenged the 2007 verdict that found him guilty of burning to death Ann Uzo and pouring petrol on the other members of his flock.Uzo died 11 days after being set on fire in a northern suburb of the city of Lagos. The five survived with various degrees of injuries. Ezeugo, the General Overseer of the Christian Praying Assembly, denied the charges and took the case to the Supreme Court after failing to overturn the death sentence at the Court of Appeal in 2013.But a five-member panel of judges at the apex court unanimously upheld the original verdict."The facts of the case could have been lifted from a horror film," said judge Sylvester Nguta in the panel's ruling. "Having considered the arguments of parties in this matter, I'm of the view that the appeal has no merit. The appeal is hereby dismissed and the judgement of the Lagos High Court, which was affirmed by the Court of Appeal is hereby affirmed."The Reverend King, a psychology graduate, on several occasions admitted flogging members of his congregation, normally to punish them for alleged fornication or adultery.His critics also accused him of indulging in illicit sex with women in his congregation.Ezeugo means "a very great king" in the Igbo language. He was often cited in local media likening himself to Jesus Christ."What happened to Jesus Christ about 2,000 years ago is what I'm going through today," he once told a newspaper reporter who visited him in a Lagos prison."The difference is only that I've not been nailed to the cross."Nigerian courts, including those in the Sharia system that runs parallel to federal and state justice in mainly Muslim northern states, frequently hand down capital punishments. But no prisoner has been executed since 2013, when four death row inmates were hanged despite having appeals pending. In August 2006, the crew of the yacht Maiken, sailing out of the Vavau island group, encountered what can only be categorized as an extraordinarily rare phenomenon- the birth of an island. The crew witnessed live, the miracle of nature in which a new island was coming to life. Appearance of pumice- a light rock that originates after lava has cooled Five miles after setting out his yacht from the Vavau Islands in Tonga to Fiji, Swedish yachtsman Fredrik Fransson observed that the color of the ocean was lagoon green instead of the normal deep blue. Then, as the yacht started to move forward, he witnessed brown-colored grainy particles floating on the ocean. As they continued to move forward, the grainy particles grew in density to an extent that the crew could no longer see any water ahead as the pumice was spread for miles. Upon closer inspection, Fransson realized the brown grainy particles were actually pumice stones- a light rock filled with gas bubbles that originates after lava with a high gas and water content erupts from a volcano and cools. Maiken attempted to sail further into the pumice land but as the density kept increasing, it started slowing down and had to be turned back to east. How the pumice appeared to spread for miles Thickness of pumice Advertisements An island coming to life- Smoke and ash were seen coming out of the volcanic island- Next, they observed a black pillar of smoke shooting up into the air. Since there are two active volcanoes south of Late island, adjacent to Metis shoal and Home reef, Franssons chart displayed an underwater seamount close to Home Reef from where the smoke was originating and he realized that that pillar was nothing but a 240-foot-tall volcano that was growing from the sea floor towards its surface- they were witnessing the birth of an island. The volcano- as per a Maiken crewmember Hakan Larsson- was one mile in diameter and with four peaks and a central crater smoking with steam and once in a while an outburst high in the sky with lava and ashes. According to Fransson It was kind of a smoldering, smoky stuff. It looked like coal, and when there was an eruption, we could see the new material piling up on it. When the crew posted their observations online, it created a storm among the Scientists, researchers and geologists alike since undersea eruptions occur at remote places or deep into the sea bed but this one was witnessed by a human being which was really surprising. Advertisements Creew member on board Maiken Some more images of the newly-born island After five months of this discovery when Scott Bryan- volcanologist at the Londons Kingston University reached the place, the island that was initially spread out over a tenth of a mile square had already nearly washed away. However, there was a rotten-egg smell of sulfur dioxide gas that signified that magma was still cooling inside. Bryan took some water samples near the volcano site for chemical analysis and acknowledged that a shallow seamount is probably all that remains of the fascinating island at Home Reef. (1, 2, 3) News / Africa by Staff Reporter A VILLAGE in Kenya is in shock after a two-year-old girl was buried alive in a shallow grave by her three playmates.Daily Nation reported that the tragedy took place yesterday in Mulwanda Village in Kakamega County, western Kenya.The little girl had been left in the care of her gogo by her mum, and had been playing with three kids aged five, six and seven.They are reported to have dug a hole at the back of a house, filled it with water, and then pushed the little girl into it. They then covered the hole in soil.When they realised the girl had choked to death, the three kids dragged her body out of the hole and dumped it next to a banana farm. The seven-year-old then apparently fled the village, terrified of what would happen next.Horrified villagers eventually found the little girl's body.According to the report, her heartbroken grandfather said: "We suspect the kids were playing innocently and tried to copy what they have witnessed happening in burials in the village."He said after they had buried his granddaughter, they would have a cleansing ritual for the children involved in her death."If we do not cleanse them, a curse may befall them and a similar misfortune will happen again," he said.The western region police chief, Moses Ombati, described the death of the girl as accidental."An inquest file will be opened and statements recorded from witnesses before the file is handed over to a magistrate to hear the inquest," said Ombati. News / Africa by Staff Reporter A HUSBAND of Kitwe has accused his wife of ten years of being a drunkard whose love for alcoholic beverages has resulted in her squandering their children's school fees.Zambia Daily Mail reportedb that Modester Chanda begged the Garneton Local Court to dissolve his marriage to Fridah Chanda because she is more interested in spending money meant for their children's education and household necessities on her drinking sprees.Modester also told senior local court magistrate Fredrick Ndhlovu that his wife also threatens to poison him.He complained that he can no longer tolerate Fridah whom he married in 2006 because of her irresponsible behaviour. The couple has two children. Bride price was paid."Problems in our marriage started in 2012 when Fridah started getting home late drunk. She stopped caring for our two children because of her love for alcohol. Now, my children are out of school because she has not being paying their school fees despite the fact that I give her money," he said.Modester claimed that Fridah refuses to change her behaviour because drinking alcohol is part of her."Both families have been informed about her behaviour but she seems unrepentant, in fact, she has become worse," he said.But Fridah blamed her husband for being the cause of all their marital problems."His decision to have an affair with our landlord's daughter is what caused problems in our marriage. He even chased me from our matrimonial home but my parents took me back because I am pregnant," she said.The court adjourned the matter for judgment to a later date. The University of California - Berkeley alerted its campus community to a data breach compromising financial information for more than 80,000 students, alumni, employees, and former employees. UCB sent out letters to potentially affected people on Thursday and announced the data breach, which took place in Dec., on Friday. As is the case for several previous instances in which a hacker managed to raise the alarm at a major school, there has been no apparent theft of sensitive information. According to SFGate.com, the school first noticed the breach in Jan. and found out the hackers managed to access the Berkeley Financial System, which manages purchasing and non-salary payments. Officials shut down the system for five days and concluded no information had been stolen. As a precaution, the school encouraged students to "be alert to signs of any possible misuse of their information." To help ease students and faculty's minds, the school is offering credit protection free of charge. "The security and privacy of the personal information provided to the university is of great importance to us," Paul Rivers, UCB's chief information security officer, said in the statement. "We regret that this occurred and have taken additional measures to better safeguard that information." This Site Is Under Construction and Coming Soon. This Domain Is Registered with Network Solutions All the latest Uttoxeter news Story Saved You can find this story in My Bookmarks. Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right. News / Africa by Staff Reporter A CHIPATA housewife has refused to continue in a sexless marriage because her husband who spent six years in prison can no longer meet his marital obligation in bed.The Zambia Daily Mail reported that a sexually starved Elestnea Mwanza (33) complained in the Chipata Local Court that she has not been able to enjoy her conjugal rights for two years because her husband Christopher Zulu, 35, no longer performs sexually.Mwanza of Mchini township was narrating before magistrate Emmanuel Mumba in a case in which she sued Zulu of Chimwemwe township for divorce. The couple has three children together."Before he went to prison, my husband was fine but since his release, he has not been able to perform sexually. For two years since his release, I have not been able to enjoy my conjugal rights. He has never touched me for the past two years. I did not wish to end this marriage but I cannot continue in this situation. I am still young," she said.She complained that it is unfair for her to have waited for her husband for six years only for her to continue being sexually starved even after his release from prison.But Zulu who did not dispute Mwanza's allegations admitted that he has a problem with his manhood; a situation he said has been preventing him from fulfilling his marital obligations in bed."Despite the problem I have, I still love her and I am not willing to divorce her because I love her," he said.The court granted divorce noting it would be unfair for Mwanza to continue in a sexless marriage as she may be tempted to commit adultery to satisfy herself.Zulu was ordered to pay Mwanza K4,000 as compensation in K200 monthly instalments. The court also reprimanded Zulu for not honest with his wife about his problem after his release from prison. UW and Albany County United Way Campaigns Exceed Goals Donations from University of Wyoming employees helped the United Way of Albany County exceed its 2015 annual campaign goal, with 386 faculty and staff members giving a total of $121,002. That is up from $111,810 from 361 employees the year before, topping the UW goal of $115,000 and boosting the countywide total past its goal of $440,000. UW employees contribute in so many ways to the local community, and this is a wonderful example of that commitment, UW President Dick McGinity says. I commend those who participated and encourage continued support for the United Way in years to come. The 2015 Albany County campaign was co-chaired by David Bagley, professor in the Department of Chemical Engineering, and his wife, Catherine. David Bagley also co-chaired the UW campaign with Kim Zafft, associate director of the Wyoming Union. "I am proud to be part of the UW community, and I want to thank my fellow employees for their generous support of the United Way campaign, Bagley says. By exceeding our campaign goal, we are helping the 16 member agencies of the Albany County United Way to provide key human services to those who need them the most, including countless numbers of university students, staff, faculty and their families." Im thrilled that we reached our goal and increased the number of UW staff and faculty contributing to this campaign, Zafft says. It would not have been possible without the support and leadership of President McGinity. His office helped kick off our campaign by becoming a pacesetter for the entire county, and his personal support helped to take us over our goal." The funding goes to the network of United Way agencies that aid local families, the elderly and many others in need, including students. The 16 agencies also provide internship and other learning experiences for students and professional development opportunities for faculty. "We are indebted to the employees of the university, because their generosity allows the United Way to help so many people in need here in Albany County," says Paul Heimer, the agency's executive director. For more information, contact Heimer at (307) 745-8643 or pheimer@unitedwayalbanycounty.org. UW Podcast Examines Harper Lee, Rare Books This is among the illuminated manuscripts from the 1400s that can be seen at the Toppan Rare Books Library at UWs American Heritage Center. (Toppan Rare Books Library) English Professor Jeanne Holland will discuss the worldwide popularity of author Harper Lees To Kill a Mockingbird on this weeks UW podcast, The University of Wyoming Today. In other segments, Gender and Womens Studies Professor Susan Dewey will explain a new program to assist incarcerated women in Wyoming, and Curator Anne Marie Lane will describe some of the books that can be touched and read at the American Heritage Centers Toppan Rare Books Library. To listen to the podcasts, go to www.uwyo.edu/uw/news/podcast/index.html or click on the link provided in the left-column navigation on the UW News home page. You can listen to the podcasts by clicking the link on the page, or subscribe to the RSS feed, which will deliver the podcast link to you via email each week. You also can click on the iTunes link and listen to or subscribe to the podcast there. New podcasts are scheduled weekly and will be updated with new episodes every Thursday. UW United Multicultural Council Sponsors Informational, Fundraising Programs University of Wyoming United Multicultural Council (UMC) students will host a program to combat hate speech and raise money to help with the Flint, Mich., water crisis. UMC and UWs Hillel student group sponsor an Anti-Defamation League workshop at 12:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 2, in the Wyoming Union Ballroom. The event is free and open to the public, and kosher food will be provided. The purpose of the training is to combat hate speech and micro-aggressions, says UMC co-chair Rida Fatima. Organizers want to meet with leaders on campus -- faculty, students and staff -- to discuss further change. For more information, contact Abi Cohen at acohen4@uwyo.edu. UMC also is sponsoring a Change for Change fundraising campaign to raise money for victims of lead-poisoned water in Flint, Mich. The crisis started in April 2014 when water from the Flint River caused lead from aging pipes to leach into the citys drinking water supply. It is estimated that 6,000-12,000 of the citys children have been exposed to high levels of lead, and may experience a range of severe health issues in the future. The UW organizers will have a display table in the Wyoming Union breezeway through Friday, March 11, for those wishing to donate to the cause, Fatima says. Anyone can be involved through donating or joining our money-raising contest, she adds. For more information, contact Fatima at rfatima@uwyo.edu. News / Education by Ellah Mukwati Scores of University of Zimbabwe students are sleeping on floors as accommodation woes worsen at the institution as a result of the introduction of two intakes.Sources said the institution upped its intake from about 3 000 to 4 600, thereby stretching its facilities.The Herald witnessed hundreds of students from as far as Chipinge and Bulawayo still stranded without accommodation, despite having paid full fees to cater for their upkeep.Attempts to get a comment from the University of Zimbabwe's director of information, Mr Daniel Chihombori, were futile as he said he was busy attending to other important matters.However, in an earlier statement published on the University of Zimbabwe's website, Mr Chihombori stated that the two intakes were meant to reduce the waiting period for students."Traditionally, the university's academic year has been starting in August, yet students get their results in February. By enrolling students in August that meant students had to wait and during that period these people have nothing to do, so the issue is motivated more by reducing this waiting period."Student leader Lonias Rozvi Majoni, who is affiliated to the Zimbabwe Congress of Student Unions, told The Herald that the introduction of the two intakes seemed to have been rushed as the institution was failing to cope with the large volumes of students enrolled this year."The situation is chaotic; the rooms which were built to accommodate one person are now being used by two or more people who sleep on bunk beds. You know the effects of poor ventilation. This mostly affects the students who occupy the upper part of the bunk bed as they are just a few inches from the ceiling," he said.Students Dean Dr Munyaradzi Madambi, whose mandate is to attend to students issues, referred all questions to Mr Chihombori.Some stranded students who spoke to The Herald on condition of anonymity said they were still waiting to be allocated proper accommodation and beds."We are just waiting for the beds to come and some of us are sleeping on the floor as we have no other alternative," said one of the affected students.Another student from Bulawayo, who claimed to have paid full fees including boarding, said she was squatting with a friend who had been allocated a room."I am staying with my friend in her room although I secured a place in the campus residence and paid for it. There are no beds in some rooms and it has affected us badly because we are opting to sleep on the floor and the small rooms are overcrowded," said the student. News / International by Agencies Mexico City - Mexican ex-president Felipe Calderon tore into US Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump on Saturday, comparing him to Adolf Hitler and blasting him as a racist. Calderon, a member of the conservative National Action Party (PAN), warned that Trump's rise in the Republican Party presidential primaries was fuelling anti-Americanism around the world.Fellow conservative Trump's anti-migrant rhetoric is not aimed at all immigrants, but rather "he is talking about migrants that have a different colour than him and that's frankly racist", said Calderon, speaking after an event in downtown Mexico City.Trump is exploiting the social fears "that in his time Hitler himself did," Calderon said. He warned that Trump "is turning the United States into a neighbour that we're all going to end up rejecting and hating," and that was not in the best interest of the United States.Mexico is the third most important US trade partner after Canada and China, and the neighbours share a 3,145km border. Trump angered Mexico by declaring that the country was sending rapists and murderers across the border, and that he would force Mexico to pay for a giant wall to keep illegal migrants out.Earlier in the month, Calderon - who served as president from 2006 to 2012 - dismissed the idea of building a border wall as "stupid."Another conservative Mexican ex-president, Vicente Fox (2000-2005), said that Trump was "crazy" and recently told the US television network Fusion: "I'm not going to pay for that fu***ng wall."US Vice President Joe Biden, speaking Thursday during a visit to Mexico, said the message expressed about Mexicans by some candidates in the US election campaign is "dangerous, damaging and incredibly ill-advised," but that this episode of "xenophobia" will pass.President Enrique Pena Nieto's administration has called Trump's comments about Mexicans "prejudiced and absurd".Meanwhile, Hillary Clinton scored a resounding victory against Bernie Sanders in Saturday's Democratic primary in South Carolina, seizing momentum ahead of the most important day of the nomination race: this week's "Super Tuesday" showdown.Four weeks into the White House primaries, the former secretary of state earned her first decisive win of the campaign, after a nail-biter victory in Iowa, a thumping loss to Sanders in New Hampshire, and then a five-point win in Nevada.South Carolina was the first southern state to vote for a 2016 Democratic nominee, before the race broadens to 11 contests across the country."Tomorrow this campaign goes national," Clinton said to a loud roar as she thanked supporters in Columbia, South Carolina, where she emerged with a clearer path to the nomination."We're going to compete for every vote in every state. We're not taking anything, and we're not taking anyone, for granted."US networks called the race for Clinton immediately after polls closed in the Palmetto State, where the majority of Democratic voters are African-American, a voting bloc that she and her husband, former president Bill Clinton, have successfully courted for decades.Clinton also looked beyond her battle with Sanders, tweaking the man many now see as the likely Republican nominee: Donald Trump, whose campaign slogan is "Make America Great Again.""Despite what you hear, we don't need to make America great again. America has never stopped being great," she said, reading off a teleprompter."But we do need to make America whole again," she added, laying out an argument against the divisive rhetoric favoured by Trump, who has antagonised immigrants, Muslims and campaign rivals.With 99 percent of precincts reporting, Clinton stood at 73.5 percent compared to 26 percent for Sanders. News / Local by Staff reporter NATIONAL University of Science and Technology (Nust) is hunting for a substantive vice-chancellor to replace the late Professor Lindela Ndlovu, who died in November last year.Professor Samson Sibanda is the acting vice-chancellor. In a notice, the university said the successful candidate would be handed a five-year performance-related renewable contract."The candidate must have at least 10 years' relevant experience at a senior management level in Tertiary and Higher Education or related fields, be an accomplished academic with a proven track record in Higher Education Management and be able to give innovative leadership in a diverse academic institution," the notice read in part.The notice said an earned doctorate degree and demonstrated analytical and administrative ability was essential.During last year's graduation, Sibanda said the institution was in the process of reverting to its mandate of teaching Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (Stem), in line with the government's new national thrust.The government is promoting the science subjects at "A" Level and under the current programme spearheaded by Higher and Tertiary Education minister Jonathan Moyo, the government will pay for the school fees of students doing the subjects under Stem.Some tertiary institutions have reportedly welcomed the initiative, which is largely going to halt the country's deficiencies with regard to science and technology skills in various facets of the economy. News / Local by Whinsley Masara FOUR Bulawayo municipal police officers were rushed to hospital after they were assaulted by vendors on Thursday.Witnesses said a fight broke out between the illegal vendors and the municipal police officers who had confiscated their goods. The incident occurred around 11AM.A vendor, Simon Moyo, said: "We saw six council cops running for dear life with a group of vendors hot on their heels. They caught up with them near Bulawayo Service Station and beat them up. Two managed to escape."He said some vendors were attacking the police officers with stones and other municipal workers who were in a council vehicle tried in vain to save the officers who were under siege.Moyo said he suspected one of the injured officers broke a jaw.The local authority's senior public relations officer, Nesisa Mpofu, said the four were injured as they carried out their duties."We don't support any mistreatment of residents out there but we encourage traders to respect our staff. Our exercise isn't confrontational but we want sanity to prevail in the city. We're all humans and should learn to work together."We want people to do business at the right places and so we expect residents to cooperate and not fight our police officers. There should be utmost respect between the clients and the municipal police officers," said Mpofu.She said informal traders should use allocated bays to avoid running battles with the municipal police.A vendor told The Chronicle they were tired of the inhumane treatment they got from the municipal police."We decided to retaliate. Their behaviour is barbaric at times. They attack us as if we were animals. We know we're supposed to stick to designated points to sell our wares but life is tough, said the vendor who declined to be named.Last Friday a commuter omnibus driver crashed his kombi into a shop following a nasty struggle for the steering wheel with a Bulawayo municipal police officer.The previous week, a municipal cop allegedly throttled a vendor along Fort Street, between 4th and 5th Avenue. In December, a man was hospitalised after he was allegedly beaten up by municipal police officers with rubber truncheons until he lost consciousness after they mistook him for a vendor. Council has launched a blitz on unlicensed vendors who are resisting to operate from designated selling points. The Arizona Diamondbacks have agreed to terms on a minor league deal with veteran infielder Rickie Weeks, as according to a club announcement on Saturday morning. The 33-year-old will receive an invite to major league spring training where he will compete for a spot on the Diamondbacks bench though he could also be working upon a spot in the infield as well. There was speculation throughout the offseason as to whether or not he would return to play another season given his age and his most recent performance on the diamond. As reported by Jon Heyman of MLB Network, Weeks will earn a total of $1.5MM should he make the big league squad out of spring camp. Weeks could be fighting for a spot alongside Jean Segura as he will be going up against guys such as Chris Owings and former top prospect of the Atlanta Braves, Nick Ahmed who has proved that he is worthy of getting picked given his capabilities all around. Weeks came up with the Milwaukee Brewers back in 2003 after being drafted by the club in the first round (2nd overall) in the 2005 amateur draft. He later signed in August of that season and made his MLB debut the following month. (John Locher/AP) Could this be a turning point in the veteran infielder's career? Weeks spent the 2015 season in the American League for the first time in his career when he joined the Seattle Mariners on a two-year deal back in February. He was one of the bigger names that was left on the free agent market, however, bringing him in took some time as they looked around the organization beforehand to see if the addition was necessary in order to win and so rightfully made the move. This being said, his attendance to the Diamondbacks roster puts him back in the National League where he looks to reclaim the talents he once had as the former one time all-star looks to get back his form with health being his main focus. This would give the club someone who is great both on the field and in the clubhouse where he can be of use to the youngsters who look to make similar impacts. Being back on the ballot would say it all as it could be his final year before hanging up the cleats. Looking at how he faired the past season, Weeks finished with a slash line of .167/.263/.250 to go alongside 2 home runs and 9 RBI's in a total of 37 games played and 95 plate appearances. Moving to Phoenix, he ultimately would get more playing time given his condition which has improved and can have him up more as figured out based upon the result of how he performs throughout the spring. Tesla Motors, an electric vehicle company owned by Elon Musk, finally owns Tesla.com, after a Silicon Valley engineer gave up the control over the domain name. Visitors who go to the said website will now be redirected to the company's official page, TeslaMotors.com. Tesla's spokeperson Khobi Brooklyn confirmed the significant event on Friday, February 19, Tech Times reported. The said change in ownership of the domain name reportedly expands the business area of Tesla itself as it now reflects the company's growing emphasis of the inclusion of energy products as a core segment. This fuels rumors that the company might be changing its name from Tesla Motors to just Tesla for good. It was noted that last year, Musk was asked if he had the intention to change its name to Tesla to indicate that it would soon manufacture stationary batteries. He did claim that there was already domain problems that tiime. The new domain name, according to Business Insider, was owned by a Nikola Tesla enthusiast named Stu Grossman since 1992. It was noted to have been made private by the previous owner as he planned to turn it into a fansite, but it did not happen. John Berryhill, Grossman's lawyer, confirmed his client has been approached by several people, encouraging him to give up the domain name. "Mr. Grossman is an engineer and a big fan of Nikola Tesla," Berryhill said. "He's had it, and now Tesla the auto company got it," noting that this was a voluntary arrangement. Now, all web traffic from Tesla.com reroutes to TeslaMotors.com, Tech Crunch reports. In related news, it was reported that Tesla is also likely to expand into other business areas as Elon Musk is planning to create a Tesla factory in the border region of China in mid 2016. With that, Tesla will have holding companies in several sectors. There are no further details regarding this matter though. Meanwhile, whether Tesla bought the domain name from Grossman is yet to be determined. There has been no announcement or explanation on the matter. Unfortunately, Grossman could not be reached for a comment while Tesla's representatives refuse to give one. Either way, it's a big win for the California-based company. Petroleo Brasileiro S.A. - Petrobras has announced on Friday signing an agreement for $10 billion loan from China Development Bank. The Brazilian state-owned oil and gas producing giant will supply its petroleum extract to Chinese companies, under the agreement. The loan will help Petrobras to pay off debts worth $12 billion scheduled to be matured this year. According to a Petrobras security filing, the contract mandatorily includes supplying fuel to Chinese firms, very similar to one signed in 2009. The firm has secured a loan for $10 billion from the Chinese bank in return for oil supply in that deal. Counterpart Brazil has guaranteed supply of 200,000 barrels of oil per day to China's state oil firm Sinopec for the coming ten years. China, now a day, has appeared as a familiar lender to Latin American countries. In several instances, the country has extended loans to businesses and governments struggling to pay off their debts through its central bank. In similar approach, US has helped Venezuela to pay off its ballooning debts, reports Bidness ETC. Opportunity Network Inc.(ON), New York based networking startup entrepreneur by Brian Pallas, has achieved a valuation of $150 million. Surprisingly, the 28 year old entrepreneur hasn't received a single penny under venture capital. Even more surprising fact is, the startup has been valued for $100 million, just a year back. The networking site aims to look for partnerships or mergers and acquisitions around the globe. It introduces potential anonymous members meeting its strict financial requirements and seeking for deals of $1 million or more. The business is scheduled to close third round of fundraising this month with investments of $10 million, according to a report published in Brunch News. Pallas is a strong advocate for keeping fundraising and ownership within a founder's control. He also observes venture capitals (VC) are over rated for both entrepreneurs and investors. Recently, he has narrated benefits for startups avoiding venture capital and secret behind growing of his startup to $150 million without VC funds, in an interview with Forbes. VC has failed to bring big returns to investors across the board with a very few exceptions for Sequoia, Google Ventures and others. Return for top 10% VCs has been lower compared to that in equity markets. So more money can be generated from an automated index rather than a VC, argues NVS24 quoting Pallas. On February 18, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention warned of high level carcinogen in Lumber Liquidators' laminate flooring. Following the result, the company's s stock plunge. Now, the company is trying hard to win back its customers and investors trust. Last year, a TV reportage in CBS' 60 Minutes reported a cancer threat to Lumber Liquidators' wood products which were imported from China, due to its high levels of formaldehyde. Following the report, the company stopped selling the product and providing free air quality tests for its customers. CDC began to test imported floor products from the Toano, Virginia-based company. However, CDC admitted that it used an incorrect value for ceiling height. CDC then revised its testing method and according to its latest statement, the federal agency said, "the health risks were calculated using airborne concentration estimates about 3 times lower than they should have been," In the newly updated testing method, CDC found the amount of formaldehyde in the company's wood flooring product was actually three times higher than previous test. Formaldehyde is a known carcinogen which caused leukimia and cancers at high levels. The chemical compound also causes respiratory issues and eye, nose and throat irritation. As Market Watch reported, CDC estimates the risk of cancer at six to 30 cases per 100,000 people. The result is much higher than previous estimation of two to nine cases per 100,000 people. CDC also explained homeowners can reduce the amount of formaldehyde in their houses by letting in fresh air fow few minutes a day. It is also unecessary to test air quality in the house unless there is a strong smell of chemical compound, or in the case of someone in the house is having symptoms of burning of the eyes, nose and throat. According to ABC News, the company's stock slid 19.8% or $2.81 and closed at $11.40 on Monday. Since last year, the company's shares have dropped more than 83%. In a separate case, last October, Lumber Liquidators pleaded guilty for the environmental crimes. The company admitted to make false declarations on import documentation regarding the source of some of its flooring. As a result, the company must pay $13 million settlement to the Justice Department for illegal import of hardwood flooring. The company is now struggling to restore its customers and investors trust to its product and reputation. In Sunday's edition of the New York Times, as CNN Money reported, the company ran a full-page advertising saying, "Recent media accounts have created confusion about the products we sell and whether or not they are impacted by a report from the [CDC]." Lumber Liquidators also said that the CDC finding does not apply to other laminate floor product, as they were made in North America or Europe. After sufering a plunge in stock and reputation, the company is trying hard to win back the trust from its customers and investors. Morgan Stanley has marked down value of shares for Flipkart, one of its managed mutual funds by 27%. Flipkart is a high flying Indian ecommerce firm. The devaluation strengthens global investors' doubt for overvaluation of the online mega store. The markdown appears as mutual funds have slashed the value of some Silicon Valley high profile startups. Messaging app Snapchat and data analysis company Palantir Technologies Inc. are among others witnessing the marking down, reports The Economic Times. The Institutional Fund Trust Mid Cap Growth Portfolio, the mutual fund, now values its stake in the online megastore at $103.97 per share. This reflects a valuation reduction from about $15.2 billion to $11 billion for the startup, according to a report published in VentureBeat. Greece was recalling its ambassador from Austria as its respond to migrant dispute between Greece and its Balkan neighbors. Meanwhile, majority of people are not satisfied with government's way in handling economic crisis according to survey. BBC News reported that as Greece made its decision following a meeting hosted by Austria over migrant issue. The meeting was held with Balkan states while Greece was not invited. At the same time, Europen Union and interior ministers from Balkan countries were also attended a meeting to bridge the disagreement regarding migrants. Migration commisioner of EU said that current migration system would break within weeks. Austria, Serbia and Macedonia have limited entry to migrants, which threatened Europe's Schengen passport-free travel area spanning 26 countries. The measures also angered Greece which responded by recalling its ambassador to Austria, Greek Migration Minister Yannis Mouzalas said his country would "not accept becoming Europe's Lebanon," which has been sheltering a million of the four million Syrians who fled the country to escape civil war. Last year, there were more than one million migrants entered the EU resulting a migrant crisis, while in this year alone, 100,000 of migrants arrived in Greece from Turkey. As the migrant is continuously flooding its border, Greece found itself trapped in the middle of migrant crisis. Austria limited the number of refugees allowed to cross its border, while every week thousand of migrants landed in Greece creating more problem for the country's ailing economy. While German's Chancellor Angela Merkel in a televised interview said Greece needs help in managing refugee crisis to prevent the country into chaos. As quoted by Bloomberg, ms. Merkel said, "We didn't keep Greece in the euro only to leave a country that's part of the euro zone and the Schengen area -- a country that has many problems -- in the lurch," she told the reporter. "That's exactly what I'm afraid of: someone defines a border, and others suffer." While most of Greek citizens have shown disapproval of government's way of handling its economic crisis which aggregated with migrant crisis. Xinhua cited a recent poll by Greek's Vima newspaper and Parapolitika daily. Many respondents disagree with governing style of current Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, as 70% gave a negative marks on his leadership style. While 85% said the country is heading toward a wrong direction, while six out of ten respondents viewed government's response to the refugee crisis as negative. Greece is trapped in the European migrant crisis. Number of migrants entering the countries continue to grow while its neighboring countries are closing their borders, adding problem to its ailing economy. While EU will attend a summit in March to discuss limiting the number of migrants. The Cyberspace Administration of China, Chinese cyberspace watchdog, has ordered on Sunday, for closure of micro-blogging accounts owned by a former property tycoon. The tycoon, Ren Zhiqiang, is a retired top executive from a state controlled property developer. He is best known for bold remarks on China's economic policy and the ban follows accusation of spreading illegal messages leaving harmful impact. Weibo.com and t.qq.com, the two most popular micro-blog portals in China have been ordered to ban the accounts following Ren's criticisms on President Xi Jinping. The property tycoon has more than 30 million online followers, reports Reuters. State media have been funded by taxpayers and should serve them instead of the Communist Party, Ren cites. The citing has been made since President Xi urged state media early this month to follow party lines in their reporting, according to a report published in BBC. Japanese automaker Nissan Motor Co's stock galloped to seven-year high following its buyback news.The company is planning to buyback $3.5 billion worth shares, the biggest exercise for the company so far and first in over four years. This news propelled investors and funds to react positively to overcome the ongoing slump in the stock. Nissan shares finally rose 12 percent after witnessing a continuous drop recently. This has been its biggest surge since April 2009. Bloomberg reports that Japan's second largest automobile major Nissan has decided to buy back shares worth Yen 400 billion ($3.5 billion). It has informed Tokyo Stock Exchange in a filing. Benchmark index Topix rose 0.6 percent in Tokyo. It was noted that Nissan shares fell about 24 percent this year so far before the announcement of shares buyback. Company's Chairman Carlos Ghosn and other directors have taken a serious note on the plunging of shares. Nissan's stock was underperforming when compared to market competitors such as Toyota Motor Corp. Nonetheless, it has recorded an encouraging performance for the US market. Nissan announced buyback plan after the markets closed on Friday.According to its communique to Tokyo Stock Exchange, it will acquire $3.5 billion worth of its own shares by the end of 2016. Nissan shares were trading at Yen 1,091.5 on Tokyo Stock Exchange. The buyback process begins from Monday and concludes on 22nd of December 2016. However, the buyback plan will not change any shareholding pattern with Renault, according to Business Times. Nikkie Lu, an analyst for Bloomberg Intelligence, said "You buy back your shares when you think they are hugely undervalued. The repurchase suggests Nissan doesn't foresee a global recession. The automotive industry is cyclical, but it's not as bad as people think." Renault and Nissan, both automobile majors from Japan and France, have been doing business together from the days of 1990s. Apparently, the ongoing concerns about the global economy growth had been hammering down shares of Nissan. Its shares fell 24 percent this year until the announcement of shares buyback, which has lifted the stock upwards. Renault-Nissan is known as the world's fourth largest car manufacturer with 8.53 million unit sales in 2015. Considering the Renault-Nissan group's strong position in cash reserves, the company has decided to return the value to shareholders via buyback process. Carlos Ghosn said "Returns to shareholders is one of Nissan's key objectives." Renault holds 43.4 percent shareholding in Nissan. It's noted that the French automobile major will also sell Nissan shares to maintain current shareholding balance. Nissan also holds 15 percent in Renault, as reported by France24. Nissan has posted increase in earnings following robust sales in the US and China. The surging Yen against the US dollar has impacted Japanese exporters. Yen's strength has shrunk the margins of exporters. News / Local by Nqobile Tshili A MANAGER at Zuva Petroleum Station in Bulawayo who was sent to deposit $18,000 allegedly blew $17,000 in less than 10 hours.Solomon Kapedza allegedly disappeared with the company's money causing widespread panic at the Matopos Road branch last Wednesday.A source at the company said a manhunt was launched after Kapedza failed to return and was not answering his mobile phone."Kapedza left the company's premises at 10AM with $18,000 and when he didn't return, we contacted the bank and they told us that no money had been deposited," said the source.The source said a report was made to the police who arrested Kapedza at about 9PM the same day but was found with only $1,000. It has not been established how he spent the $17,000.Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Precious Simango confirmed the arrest of Kapedza. "I can confirm that we've arrested a Zuva Petroleum employee who allegedly stole the company money," said Insp Simango.She said $1,000 was recovered following Kapedza's arrest. Insp Simango urged companies not to keep large sums of money at their premises. "I don't believe that the $18,000 was a day's cashing. Companies should avoid keeping large sums of money at their premises as they risk being robbed," said Insp Simango. Britain's exit from the European Union will have a negative impact on the economy of the country, according to officials. The June 23 referendum will decide the future of Britain's membership in the union. UK's departure from the union is being supported by Boris Johnson, mayor of London. While David Cameron and George Osborne are campaigning against Brexit. The UK prime minister pledges to negotiate a better agreement for the nation in the union. Officials also warned that the Brexit would negatively impact the lives of people living in Britain. In addition, the move may affect the people's access to healthcare and pensions in the EU nations. The Guardian quoted a government document, which says that a Brexit vote would lead to financial uncertainty for over a decade and that it is not possible for UK to quit from the union membership within a time frame of two years. UK needs a time frame of ten years to form fresh trade deals with nations like the US, if Britain opted to stay away from the European Union. According to Iain Duncan Smith, pension and work secretary, the migration issue in Europe is threatening Britain than the Brexit move. He asked, "Why would we have such a low opinion of the British people that we go out and talk about 'leaping into the dark', we talk about 'profound shocks'?". The UK's currency dropped the most in over seven years amid fears that Britain may elect to quit from the union. Sterling plummeted 3.7% against the US dollar in the currency market. Bloomberg quoted a recent survey by ORB, which shows that 52% of people wanted Britain to quit from the union while 48% voted in favour of the country's membership in the union. This result matches the change in trend that supports the exit campaign. Duncan Smith, who argued that UK's stay in the union may create confusion and economic troubles, pointed out to the uncertainty of euro in the coming period. Micheal Howard, a previous Tory leader, also supported Brexit. He said that UK remains an important market for many EU nations that want to export their goods. He added that the French and the Germans will continue to sell their goods in Britain even if the nation opted for an exit. Meanwhile, the United States look forward to construct a fresh relationship with both the EU and UK after Brexit. According to the Brexit supporters, Britain can trade easily with the US even after the exit, while the "Remain" campaigners say that UK is more profitable if it continues with the union membership, according to NBC NEWS. The entire world is waiting for the June 23 poll, which decides the future of Brexit. Britain is the second largest economy in the union and its exit will mark significant move in the history of the world's largest trading bloc. Experts fear that the union without London will be controlled by Germany. China National Chemical Corp., or ChemChina, is seeking a loan to complete its acquisition transaction with Swiss agrochemicals maker Syngenta. Earlier this month, the two companies had already reached a deal on a $43 billion takeover. ChemChina is asking bankers for more than $35 billion worth of loans to complete the acquisition. According to The Wall Street Journal, the syndicated loans is led by HSBC Holdings PLC and China Citic Bank International Ltd. as the company's advisors on the acquisition. ChemChina is reaching out to a clutch of global and Chinese banks for a lending package set to be completed by April. A $20 billion non-recourse loan for ChemChina is already launched, split between $15 billion of bridge loans to support the offer and another $5 billion of facilities to backstop Syngenta's existing debts that are subject to change of control clauses, as reported by Reuters. The financing has been launched to existing lenders to Syngenta and ChemChina. Lenders are asked to allocate $1.25 billion each to the financing. Some international banks have also reportedly agreed to give out loans to the Chinese company into the bridge-loan package. Besides HSCB Holdings, other international banks such as Credit Suisse Group AG, Rabobank Group, and UniCredit SpA are already involved as they intended to invite other European banks to join. Aside from the non-recourse loan, ChemChina also hired China Citic Bank International Ltd. to arrange a $15 billion loan facility, according to Bloomberg, citing an unspecified source. The $15 billion facility will likely be syndicated in Asia as terms are being finalized, as ChemChina strive to secure funding from other Chinese entities to join its consortium. Global banks and Chinese investors have been eager to fund Chinese companies, especially state-owned companies, on their aim to takeover western companies. ChemChina's acquisition deal with Syngenta is the biggest purchase ever made by a Chinese company. Previously, ChemChina also acquired German machinery manufacturer KraussMaffei Group for $1 billion and also Italian tire company Pirelli's stake. The transaction, along with other Chinese companies maneuver to purchase U.S-based or Europe-based companies, reflects China's ambition to expand its business in global markets and acquire advanced technology in western countries. After months of negotiating and competing with other companies, ChemChina finally reached an acquisition deal of $43 billion with Syngenta, or $465 a share plus a special dividend to be paid immediately. Now the Chinese chemical maker is seeking loans from banks to complete the transaction on a lending package to be completed on April. European Central Bank (ECB) is expected to launch monetary stimulus next month to help banking system in euro zone. Head of asset management in the biggest bank in Norway, DNB ASA supported the effort as it will help to save the world. In an interview with Bloomberg on Thursday, head of fixed income at DNB Asset Management Svein Aage Aanes said, "Many are a bit skeptical but I still think the central banks have some dry gun powder left." He also said, "The ECB can do much. This will calm down." He also pointed out the power of Chinese government to steer China as the world's second-largest economy to get out of the market turmoil. However, he said investors are underestimating that power. As quoted by Taipei Times, he said, "Against what normally would've been a clear bubble situation there's a government in China that has completely different tools and the ability to intervene through regulations and capital controls. It's a terror balance between an unbalanced economy and a government with a big foreign exchange reserve and economic muscle." Aanes is the one responsible to oversee 315 billion kroner ($40 billion) asset with investment horizon of 6 to 12 months. Currently, the Oslo-based bank is waiting for the right timing to execute its plan to buy more corporate bonds, and is interested in bank debt in particular. Nevertheless, the bank debt has its yields surged in this year over concern of another financial crisis. Furthermore he stressed the importance to rescue the banking sector. As nowadays, with its higher yields, lenders are unable to issue subordinated debt. ECB is expected to calm down the market with rate cuts and also implement other specific measures for the banking system. In a last month's monetary policy meeting, European Central Bank is determined to make euro a more resilient to overcome the significant challenges. The central bank has already review and reconsider stimulus program in early March. ECB will also consider to relinquish its 500-euro bank note. The central bank decided to ditch the bank note because the bank note were used by criminals and militant activities. President of ECB Mario Draghi told Reuters, "The 500 euro note is being viewed increasingly as an instrument for illegal activities," he said. "It has nothing to do with reducing cash." Last year, the amount of cash in Europe rose to more than 1 trillion euros ($1.1 trillion), and 30% of it hoarded in 500-euro bank note. European finance ministers have urged ECB to tighten access to bank notes to cut funding for militant activity. As the effort to revitalize financial sector and banking industry, ECB has set a plan to launch a stimulus in May. While DNB openly said to support the decision. Telstra, an Australian-based mobile phone company, is supporting venture capital funds to find investments in Asia. The mobile device maker has spent nearly $10 million along with Yahoo Japan, Temasek and Cisco. The focus of Telstra is now concentrated on technology investment in Asia as it experiences a drop in the viability of internet services and phone calls. However, certain shareholders of the company feel that the new investment would pose a threat to its financial stability with Telstra receiving a little return from the fresh bets. According to Matthew Koertge, managing director of Telstra, regional whizzes like Monk's Hill Ventures will aid the company to locate new investment deals in Asia. Telstra, which usually invest directly in firms, has chosen to spend in a venture fund for the first time as an effort to stimulate its business portfolio. There is wide range of chances in South East Asian countries and that these experts will help the company to recognize a suitable area for their products in Asian markets, as reported by The Sydney Morning Herald. The Monk's Hill Ventures, with $80 million funds to help tech start-ups, has a good network structure and expertise in South East Asian markets. In addition, the company has invested in several external funds to locate fresh investment strategy in Asia. However, Telstra has teams in Australia and the US to aid in its investment policies. According to the company, the external whizzes will control all the investment activities in foreign lands with their powerful network and local skill. The external specialists make it simpler for Telstra to invest in the overseas market. Telstra said that it normally spend between $5 million and $50 million in established organisations. The company's future investment strategy include companies based in Asia Pacific, Australia and Silicon Valley. The company is interested in areas like cloud automation, video content, healthcare ICT and media-related firms. Kuo-Yi Lim, managing director of Monk's Hill Ventures, said that his firm will support Telstra to find suitable markets in South East Asia. He also promised to locate nearly 800 - 1000 start-up firms for Telstra over a period of one year. He added that firms involved in financial services and logistics could perform well in the international markets rather than consumer-oriented firms. Reuters quoted a report by Tauri Group, which says that space start-ups have attracted nearly $1.8 billion of venture capital funds in 2015. SpaceX, controlled by Elon Musk, received the lion's share of $1 billion in the 2015 space investments round. Telstra's external investment approach has gained many merits among the investor community. The company tries to expand its business portfolio in foreign lands with the help of external fund groups. These experts make things easier for the company rather than flying in and out of the country to seek foreign markets. Angela Merkel on Sunday has termed the actions of protesters shouting abuse at a bus full of migrants, as repulsive and unjustifiable. The German chancellor also adds saying Europe cannot allow Greece to fall into chaos. On February 18, around hundred people have tried to block migrants from entering a shelter in the eastern village of Clausnitz. The incident has prompted concerns for growing extremism in Germany. The number of far right attacks has been increased significantly over the past year following asylum seeking from a million of migrants, reports Yahoo News. Merkel witnesses a polarization in German society while legitimizing her decision in September keeping the country's borders open to migrants. The Chancellor has however, pledged her commitment to convince the naysayers in due course. FBI, in aid of the US Justice Department, is mulling all means to compel Apple unlocking an extremist's iPhone. The efforts are being defended by Apple or more specifically Tim Cook and supported by the tech allies like Google and Facebook. The same tech allies have previously been accused by Apple for exploiting personal information to sell ads effectively endangering privacy. Some accuses Apple allies for becoming hypocrites when the issue of privacy appears. Historically, Americans are sensitive about the government's power to infringe on individual rights. A cross section of Americans has rallied in favor of Apple. Leading tech companies including Google, Twitter, Facebook and Microsoft have pledged to file legal arguments in support of Apple's position, reports ABC News. STAR FILE PHOTO Camarillo City Council Chambers. SHARE By Michele Willer-Allred, Special to The Star Camarillo is looking for military veterans, who served in the Vietnam War and lived in the city at their time of service, for a new commemoration program. At the Camarillo Council meeting last week, a report was given updating the city's partnership with the Department of Defense's Vietnam War Commemoration Program, aimed at honoring and thanking veterans of the Vietnam years, and their families, for their "service, valor, and sacrifice." The defense department defines the Vietnam years from Nov. 1, 1955 to May 15, 1975. It recently approved the city's application to be a partner in the program, and an ad hoc committee, comprised of Mayor Mike Morgan and Councilwoman Charlotte Craven, was recently formed to oversee the city's participation. As part of the program, Camarillo will hold two events per year for the next three years to recognize the veterans. This year, two events are proposed at Constitution Park on May 21 for Armed Forces Day and on Nov. 11 for Veterans Day. David Moe, the city's assistant community development director, said during the May 21 event, Vietnam veterans from the greater Camarillo area will have their names read aloud and be given certificates from the city and bronze lapel pins in recognition of their service during the Vietnam War. The city is limiting participation to those whose home of record was Camarillo when they served, or who now live in the greater Camarillo area, including Somis, the Heights, The Estates and the Santa Rosa Valley. Craven said the city is receiving a great response from those who want to participate in the program. She said the city so far is expecting more than 250 people and their families at the events. There are 15 people who have Camarillo as their home of record who were killed in action during the Vietnam War. Craven said that attempts are being made to locate family members of those killed, and a special commemoration will be made for them. A plaque with their names already is displayed at the Pleasant Valley Swimming Pool. She said the city will also do something if it finds out if any residents went missing in action during the war. Morgan said he'd like to see the Vietnam Traveling Memorial Wall to come to the city. Vietnam veterans interested in participating should call Kathy Talley at Camarillo City Hall, 388-5312. In other action on Wednesday, the council gave final approval to amending and reinstating the city's municipal code to clarify and emphasize the availability of the city's rent review mediation forum to resolve rent disputes in mobile homes and now residential rental complexes. The council also approved an additional $25,000 for revisions to the groundwater study related to the North Pleasant Valley Groundwater Desalter project. Photos by CARLOS CHAVEZ/SPECIAL TO THE STAR The US Postal Service Black Heritage Stamp of Richard Allen, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church was unveiled by (left to right) Larry Dozier, Ruth Connell, Bill Williams and Ruth Girardduring a ceremony at the Thousand Oaks United Methodist Church on Saturday. SHARE The US Postal Service Black Heritage Stamp of Richard Allen, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church was unveiled at the Thousand Oaks United Methodist Church on Saturday. Larry Dozier, president of the Western Jurisdiction United Methodist Men sang during the event. CARLOS CHAVEZ/SPECIAL TO THE STAR Terrell Moran (right) leads the gospel choir during the US Postal Service Black Heritage Stamp unveiling of Richard Allen, founder of the African Methodist Episcopal Church at the Thousand Oaks United Methodist Church on Saturday. CARLOS CHAVEZ/SPECIAL TO THE STAR Connie Molinokeeps in rhythm the gospel singers during the unveiling of the US Postal Service Black Heritage Stamp of Richard Allen at the Thousand Oaks United Methodist Church on Saturday. By Jeremy Foster, Special to The Star The United Methodist Church of Thousand Oaks has a predominately Caucasian congregation, but on Saturday night it celebrated diversity. The church held a ceremony to commemorate the unveiling of a new stamp earlier this month by the U.S. Postal Service in honor of Richard Allen. Allen was the founder and first bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, one of three major black denominations. The ceremony, which began with a prayer, was attended by about 100 people including church and Postal Service officials. It was followed by poetry readings and rousing gospel music, including a rendition of "Lean on Me" by Bill Williams, president of the United Methodist Men of Thousand Oaks. The event was spearheaded by Larry Dozier, the Western Jurisdiction United Methodist Men's president, who said the ceremony allowed people to come together. "Richard Allen broke away from United Methodist Church because of racial tensions," Dozier said. "Within the United Methodist Church today there is an organization called Black Methodist for Church Renewal. While these churches are separate, events like today serve as an opportunity for us to work together. We're coming full circle, and now we're celebrating a Richard Allen stamp in this Methodist church." Allen becomes the 39th person honored in the Postal Service's Black Heritage stamp series, which started in 1978 with a stamp honoring abolitionist Harriet Tubman. Other African-Americans honored in the Black Heritage stamp series include Ella Fitzgerald, Martin Luther King Jr., Benjamin Banneker, Thurgood Marshall and Hattie McDaniel. The unveiling of the Richard Allen stamp kicked off the national observance of Black History Month and coincides with the 200th anniversary of the 1816 conference of African-American ministers called by Allen to form a new and independent church. Heather Girard, retail manager for the Postal Service, spoke about the stamp and Allen's contributions to earn the honor. "Allen accomplished a lot," Girard said. "He became an icon for black reformer, including orator and social reformer Frederick Douglass, author James Baldwin and Martin Luther King Jr." Girard added that these type of stamps are always equal in value to the current first-class mail one-ounce rate. While many predominately African-American churches have celebrated black history this month, Dozier said he and Williams felt it was important to do the same even at a church in Thousand Oaks. "This is Black History Month, and in the United Methodist Church we have a broad umbrella," said Dozier. "We have Hispanic, Filipino and African American." Williams said while differences should be celebrated, it was also important to highlight what every person has in common. "Sorrow, suffering, joy, bills, cancer is colorblind," Williams said. "We are all a family and we're all believers who have a gift from Jesus Christ." While many are inspired by Allen's legacy as a slave who bought his freedom for $2,000, worked on the Underground Railroad and for the abolitionist movement, Williams said he admired Allen's ability to galvanize people. "He organized some people, and it just grew," he said. "It was like starting the early church back in Acts (of the Apostles). We all started with a few people, but the more the word spread, the more it caught on." The denomination Allen founded has 7.5 million members in 39 countries and 12,000 congregations. Garnetta Person, 71, attended the service with her mother Dorothy Reynolds, 91. They attend the Victory Lighthouse Church in Oxnard and said they were surprised to hear that a church in Thousand Oaks would be celebrating black history. "I looked on the Internet and thought, 'It certainly is a white church so this should be interesting,'" said Person, who coordinates black history events at her church. "This is a great way to get everyone together." Williams said this was the first celebration of Black History Month at the church. "We've often preached on it or spoken about it but there hadn't yet been an organized event," Williams said. He said the African-American Episcopal Church in Oxnard and his church will have their choirs visit each other's churches. "Only 1 percent of the population in Thousand Oaks is African American but we want to reach out to more people," he said. SHARE CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Ventura County Sheriff's Office Department. By Staff Reports The Camarillo Police Department has partnered with the Ventura County Office of Education to create a student citizen academy, officials said. The goal of the program is to give high school students a chance to learn about the operations and responsibilities of law enforcement in Ventura County. Students attending the 12-week program were selected by the Ventura County Office of Education from high schools throughout Ventura County where they are enrolled in criminal justice classes. The students will get school credit for attending this program and will gain insight into the realm of public safety and community service, officials said. Students will also learn about the county's detention facilities, meet SWAT officers, learn about the forensic services bureau and meet a K-9 officer. The classes will begin Wednesday and last through May 25. At the completion of the program, there will be a graduation ceremony with the Camarillo chief of police. There are no additional costs associated with this program to the students, the police department or to the Ventura County Office of Education, officials said. SHARE FILE PHOTO Manny Vega, a clergy abuse survivor, thinks the attention triggered by the Oscars won by Spotlight helps the fight against pedophile priests, He isnt sure how long the spotlight will last. By Tom Kisken of the Ventura County Star Lee Bashforth wishes Oscar-winning "Spotlight" was made before he was molested at age 6 by a Conejo Valley Catholic priest. "If this movie had been made 40 years ago, what happened to me would never have happened," he said, crediting the film for helping people understand the horror of clergy abuse and the cover-up by Catholic leaders. "I think it's that big of a deal." The film about The Boston Globe's investigation of pedophile priests won best picture at the Academy Awards Sunday. Survivors said Monday the long-shot victory aids their fight to help victims and bring about more change in the church. "No pun intended but it puts our story back in the spotlight," said Bashforth. He said he and his brother were molested by the Rev. Michael Wempe when the priest served at St. Jude Catholic Church in Westlake Village. Wempe also served at other local parishes, including St. Rose of Lima Church in Simi Valley, Sacred Heart Church in Ventura and St. Sebastian Church in Santa Paula. According to personnel records from the Archdiocese of Los Angeles, he admitted molesting 13 boys in the 1970s and 1980s. The Boston scandal broke early in 2002, triggering nationwide revelations including allegations involving more than two dozen priests who served in Ventura County. Manny Vega has been in the fight from the beginning. The retired Oxnard police detective said that as an altar boy at Our Lady of Guadalupe he was molested by the Rev. Fidencio Silva in a series of abuse that lasted five years. Vega became an advocate and leader, protesting in a weeklong vigil at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels and fighting for legislation that allowed more victims to file lawsuits. "It's part of who I am," he said Monday of the abuse. "It doesn't go away." The Archdiocese of Los Angeles came to a $660 million settlement in 2007 with more than 500 victims, including Bashforth and Vega. In 2013, the archdiocese released personnel records for more than 120 accused clergy. Vega wants more names released of monsignors, bishops and others who protected accused priests and facilitated them being moved from one parish to another. He said the best picture Oscar for a movie he watched three times helps put the fight "back on the table." It raises awareness with the general public but Vega is not convinced the new attention will last long. "Tomorrow, they won't remember," he said, citing presidential primaries, "because Super Tuesday is going to wipe everything away." In a written statement Monday, Los Angeles archdiocese officials said they remain vigilant in their commitment to protect children from harm. They said 300,000 adults and 1.4 million children have been trained in awareness and abuse prevention programs. "The archdiocese has a zero-tolerance policy and reports any incidents of abuse involving minors," they said. Lawsuits are still being litigated involving accused priests some connected to Ventura and the Los Angeles archdiocese, said Anthony De Marco, a Pasadena clergy abuse lawyer. He thinks the best picture Oscar will help ensure the clergy abuse crisis is not only remembered but understood. "The power of cinema is immense because of its accessibility to anyone," he said. Joelle Casteix, of Newport Beach, said she became pregnant and contracted a sexually transmitted disease after being sexually abused by a choir teacher at a Catholic high school in Santa Ana. Now, she's Southern California director of the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests. The group held protests across the nation on Oscars Sunday, pushing bishops to post the names of predator priests on websites. Casteix said "Spotlight" reaches an audience that wasn't paying attention or was too young when the clergy abuse crisis exploded more than a decade ago. "This movie saved lives," she said. "It raises awareness. It tells survivors it's safe to come forward." Casteix urged survivors who need help to call a suicide hotline at 1-800-784-2433. News / National by Fumgai Lupande A debt collector with Bherebhende Law Chambers has appeared in court accused of swindling a client out of $13 000.Sarah Hwingiri of 124 Samora Machel Avenue in Harare appeared before Harare magistrate Mr Tendai Mahwe last week. She is facing theft of trust property charges. She was remanded to March 3 on $100 bail.The complainant is Katija Da Silva Marques employed by Skylark and Tours as a senior travel consultant. Prosecutor Mr Sebastian Mutizirwa alleged that on September 24, 2010 Marques took a $50 000 loan from CBZ Bank.The court heard that she pledged her mother's house as surety. The house was sold and awaited confirmation of the sale by the Sheriff after Marques failed to service the loan.Marques was introduced to Hwingiri who was said to have powers to reverse the sale of the house. Hwingiri was given $1 500 as consultation fee and a Mercedes-Benz ADJ 4793 to sell and pay the bank.Hwingiri converted the vehicle to own use. On different occasions Marques allegedly paid a total of $7 000 to Hwingiri. SHARE By Claudia Boyd-Barrett, Special to The Star The debate over whether to close an elementary school in Ojai turned to considering the market value of each school property, and to alternative ideas for boosting student enrollment. Last week, members of the Ojai Unified School District's 7-11 Committee met to review preliminary appraisals of the district's five elementary schools provided by a local real estate agent. The appraisals, provided by Coldwell Banker broker Erik Wilde, estimate the market value of the school properties at between $1 million and $3.25 million, depending on the site. Summit Elementary School has the lowest market value at between $1 million and $1.25 million, according to the estimate. Topa Topa Elementary School has the highest value, between $2.75 million and $3.25 million, the appraisal states. Assistant Superintendent Andrew Cantwell said the appraisal does not take into account the potential cost of permit or rezoning fees, or of demolishing buildings on any of the sites. Nor did the appraisal look at revenue the district could potentially gain from leasing the land instead of selling it, another option put forward Thursday by committee members. The appraisal data comes as the committee members prepare to make their opinions known Thursday on whether they think the district should close an elementary school. They have also looked at enrollment projections, potential savings on operational costs if a school is closed, and benefits and disadvantages such a move might pose to students and teachers. "Do your homework and come prepared to make your view known," committee chair Glenn Fout told his colleagues about the meeting, which is to start at 7 p.m. If a consensus is reached, the committee will hold a public hearing at a subsequent meeting before making a final recommendation to the school district's board. Also on Thursday, committee member David White presented an idea to turn Meiners Oaks Elementary into a magnet school for environmental science. White, an environmental educator, said Meiners Oaks already is set up to make the change because of its location next to a nature preserve, and because it has some established environmental programs run in partnership with local nonprofits. Creating a magnet school would attract new students to the district, White argued. Later in the meeting, committee members suggested other ideas for boosting funding to the district including encouraging better attendance and holding more Saturday schools. Declining enrollment is driving the discussion on closing a school. Although enrollment is expected to hold steady over the next few years, Cantwell said costs are likely to increase, stressing the district's finances. The district is anticipating a deficit next school year and the following year, he said. Several residents from Upper Ojai urged the committee to exclude Summit Elementary School from its deliberations. They said the school has served generations of Upper Ojai families and is integral to the area, both as a school and as a meeting place for community groups. "It's kind of the hub where people get together in that valley," said longtime resident Rod Thompson. "It is just an icon. It is something we would really like to see preserved if at all possible. It is a very important part of our community." SHARE CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Ventura Mayor Erik Nasarenko delivers his first State of the City speech on Monday night. By Arlene Martinez, amartinez@vcstar.com Newly elected Ventura Mayor Erik Nasarenko will deliver his first State of the City address on Monday night in council chambers. "Invest in Ventura, Now and For a Strong Tomorrow" will focus on the importance of investing in the city, as well as a sales tax measure the city is considering. The city eliminated and reduced programs, deferred maintenance and implemented other cost-saving measures in response to the recession and its fallout, he said. Now, it needs more support, he has said. "A modest one-half cent local sales tax, where every penny stays in our community to meet local needs, would go a long way to making sure our city is prepared for a disaster and to maintaining critical city services," Nasarenko and Deputy Mayor Neal Andrews wrote in a January column that ran in The Star. The council voted last fall to spend up to $80,000 on an "education campaign" to convince voters to approve a sales tax increase. The city's current sales tax is 7.5 percent. Nasarenko, first elected in 2013, was voted mayor by the rest of the council in December. He served as deputy mayor from 2013-15. The speech is open to the public. It starts at 6 p.m. at City Hall, 501 Poli St. Ventura residents can watch the speech live on Channel 15. After a short reception following the speech, the council will hold its regular meeting. That meeting includes an update on the 2016-22 Capital Improvement Plan, which includes 184 projects for $734 million. Of those, 41 are new and replace or repair failing infrastructure, the staff report notes. It also includes an update on the city's environmental sustainability strategy. According to a staff report, the city released 11,641 metric tons of greenhouse gas emissions in 2014, down from 14,112 tons in 2007. SHARE Re: Tanja Seagraves Feb 26 letter, Health care: As a former tour director who lived and worked globally, I concur with Tanjas rebuttals regarding the comparison of our health system with that of Europes. She is also correct in stating that other countries offer better quality and longevity of life. An 80 percent income tax rate also is fallacy. My relatives, friends and former colleagues who live in England, Germany, Canada, New Zealand and Australia agree, as does Michael Moores documentary, Where to Invade Next. Fact-free rhetoric, which is regurgitated on the 24/7 news cycle and in newsprint, permeates our lives. Regrettably, the world is watching our GOP political circus another shameful example of crude, rude, imaginary American exceptionalism. Jeanne Howard, Camarillo Make Me Laugh stand up comedy contest is looking for the funniest comedians in Las Vegas to join an X-Country Comedy Tour. The contest, which takes place over two rounds in March has already found talent in seven major cities. Each city crowns its own champion and offers comedy opportunities that extend for years (Pictured: Andrew Frank). In 2015 Make Me Laugh held rounds in San Francisco CA, Denver CO, St. Louis MO, Anchorage AK and Albany NY. The Winner in each city joined the Comedys Best Kept Secret Tour through 42 shows in 42 days. The contest takes into account online submissions, live auditions, and then breaks the talent into Semi Final and Finals rounds. The top three contestants from the Semi Finals make it to the Finals, with one overall winner being chosen. That winner receives complimentary head shots, business cards, local interviews and the opportunity to join the tour. Celebrity Judges come on to make the determination in each city. In Las Vegas judges will be Make Me Laugh Founder, Comedian Dan Frigolette, whos been seen on HBO, FX, and MTV, Make Me Laugh St. Louis Previous Winner Andrew Frank, San Diego Comedy Festival Comedian, Sonya Vai, and KTNV-TVs Darcy Spears. The final judges is always the audience, weighing in with their laughter and applause. All the shows are of course open to the public. This is our first time in Las Vegas, we really hope to reach the comedy community here, says Frigolette, weve heard amazing things. The goal of the contest according to Frigolette is to encourage comedy at all levels. Frigolette started his comedy career in Syracuse NY where there was but one comedy club. Comedy is often the first thing to go in the art community and we want to pump some energy back into the scene everywhere we go he says. The semi finals will take place at Boomers on March 29th at 8pm, with the top contestants being asked to return on March 30th at Hard Hat Lounge for the Finals at 8pm. The one winner will then perform a later show at the Jefferson Ballroom with the Comedys Best Kept Secret comedians, Dan Frigolette, Andrew Frank, and Sonya Vai, from the San Diego Comedy Festival. Prospective performers may submit a 4-6 minute video online with a small processing fee at www.LaughUSA.org. Those who submit online have the opportunity to head straight to the Finals. Those who participate in the Semi Finals can still be passed to the Finals, but they will have to be present at multiple shows over multiple days. The online submission is designed to confirm finalist, and push the funniest folks to the head of the line says Frigolette. The Winner will also receive stage time at the Hoboken Comedy Festival, the NJFunnyfest and will submit their schedule for performances throughout the rest of 2016 and 2017. For more information and to submit please visit: www.LaughUSA.org Make Me Laugh Las Vegas Semi Finals March 29th 2016 8pm Boomers LV 3200 W Sirius Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89102 $12 Finals March 30th 2016 8pm HardHat Lounge 1675 S Industrial Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89102 $12 Come root on your favorite local acts throughout the contest. With special guest comedians from the area and celebrity judges: Dan Frigolette from HBO, FX and MTV, Sonya Vai from San Diego Comedy Festival, Darcy Spears from KTNV-TV, and last year St Louis Winner Andrew Frank. Tickets: www.laughusa.org Boomers LV | 3200 W Sirius Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89102 HardHat Lounge |1675 S Industrial Rd, Las Vegas, NV 89102 Tickets $12 Winner gets the opportunity to join the Comedys Best Kept Secret Tour Tour Schedule Start your engines! Tacos & Tequila (T&T) at Luxor Hotel and Casino will race into NASCAR weekend with food and drink specials from Friday, March 4 through Sunday, March 6 (Pictured: Hot Dog Nachos Photo credit: Peter Harasty). Motorsports fanatics can enjoy T&Ts Hot Dog Nachos made with tortilla chips and French fries topped with barbecue baked beans, nacho cheese sauce, red onion, cilantro, jalapeno and grilled hot dog slices, priced at $10. Guests can also enjoy a trio of T&Ts Hot Dog Nachos, one bottle of Coors Light and the choice of a shot of Southern Comfort Pepper or a mystery tequila shot, priced at $15. The Smith Center for the Performing Arts announces the highly anticipated lineup of performances for the 2016-2017 Broadway Las Vegas Series. From August 2016 to June 2017, the upcoming season sponsored by Southern Nevada Ford Stores, will feature Tony Award-winning productions, Broadway smashes and first-ever national tours (Pictured: The Sound of Music). The nine-part series features timeless Broadway classics as well as some of todays newest, critically acclaimed and Tony Award-winning productions including Beautiful The Carole King Musical, Fun Home, Matilda The Musical, The Sound Of Music, Irving Berlins White Christmas, Motown The Musical, Finding Neverland, An American In Paris and The Phantom Of The Opera. Combined, the celebrated roster of productions represents more than 22 Tony Award wins. Additional information on 2016-2017 Broadway Las Vegas season shows may be found below. On-sale dates for tickets to individual performances will be announced at a later date. THE SOUND OF MUSIC Tuesday, Aug. 2, 2016 Sunday, Aug. 14, 2016 THE HILLS ARE ALIVE! A brand new production of THE SOUND OF MUSIC, directed by three-time Tony Award winner Jack OBrien, is coming to The Smith Center for the Performing Arts. The beloved musical story of Maria and the von Trapp Family will once again thrill audiences with its Tony, Grammy and Academy Award-winning Best Score, including My Favorite Things, Edelweiss and the title song. THE SOUND OF MUSIC enjoyed extraordinary success as a live television production when The Sound of Music Live! aired on NBC in December, 2013 and was seen by over 44 million people. 2015 marked the 50th anniversary of the film version, which continues to be the most successful movie musical in history. BEAUTIFUL THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL Tuesday, Sept. 20, 2016 Sunday, Oct. 2, 2016 BEAUTIFUL THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL tells the Tony and Grammy Award-winning inspiring true story of Kings remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit songwriting team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history. Along the way, she made more than beautiful music, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation. IRVING BERLINS WHITE CHRISTMAS Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2016 Sunday, Nov. 27, 2016 The timeless movie White Christmas is adapted for the stage in a lavish new production that the New York Times says to put on your wish list. IRVING BERLINS WHITE CHRISTMAS tells the story of a song-and-dance team putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and falling for a stunning sister act in the process. This merry and bright holiday musical is full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written! FUN HOME Tuesday, Jan. 3, 2017 Sunday, Jan. 8, 2017 Every once in a while a Broadway musical comes along that surprises, moves and excites audiences in ways only a truly landmark musical can. The groundbreaking, uplifting and exquisite new musical FUN HOME was the event of the Broadway season, receiving raves from critics and audiences alike, winning five 2015 Tony Awards including BEST MUSICAL and making history along the way. Based on Alison Bechdels best-selling graphic memoir, FUN HOME introduces us to Alison at three different ages as she explores and unravels the many mysteries of her childhood. A refreshingly honest musical about seeing your parents through grown-up eyes, FUN HOME is extraordinary, a rare beauty that pumps fresh air into Broadway. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL Tuesday, Jan. 17, 2017 Sunday, Jan. 22, 2017 It began as one mans story became everyones music and is now Broadways musical. MOTOWN THE MUSICAL is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordys journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as My Girl and Aint No Mountain High Enough, experience the story behind the music in the record-breaking smash hit MOTOWN THE MUSICAL! FINDING NEVERLAND Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2017 Sunday, Feb. 19, 2017 FINDING NEVERLAND is Broadways biggest new hit and the winner of Broadway.coms Audience Choice Award for BEST MUSICAL! This breathtaking smash captures the kid-at-heart (Time Magazine). Vogue cheers, its a must-see youll remember for years to come!Directed by visionary Tony winner Diane Paulus, FINDING NEVERLAND tells the incredible story behind one of the worlds most beloved characters: Peter Pan. Playwright J.M. Barrie struggles to find inspiration until he meets four young brothers and their beautiful widowed mother. Spellbound by the boys enchanting make-believe adventures, he sets out to write a play that will astound London theatergoers. With a little bit of pixie dust and a lot of faith, Barrie takes this monumental leap, leaving his old world behind for Neverland where nothing is impossible and the wonder of childhood lasts forever. The magic of Barries classic tale springs spectacularly to life in this heartwarming theatrical event. FINDING NEVERLAND is far andaway the best musical of the year! (NPR). MATILDA THE MUSICAL Tuesday, March 14, 2017 Sunday, March 19, 2017 Time Magazines #1 Show of the Year! Winner of 50 international awards, including four Tony Awards, MATILDA THE MUSICAL is the story of an extraordinary girl who, armed with a vivid imagination and a sharp mind, dares to take a stand and change her own destiny. Based on the beloved novel by Roald Dahl, MATILDA continues to thrill sold-out audiences of all ages on Broadway, in Londons West End, and in Sydney, Australia. The Wall Street Journal says, The makers of MATILDA have done the impossible triumphantly! It is smart, sweet, zany and stupendous fun. AN AMERICAN IN PARIS Tuesday, April 11, 2017 Sunday, April 16, 2017 AN AMERICAN IN PARIS is the new Tony Award-winning musical about an American soldier, a mysterious French girl and an indomitable European city, each yearning for a new beginning in the aftermath of war. Acclaimed director/choreographer and 2015 Tony Award winner Christopher Wheeldon brings the magic and romance of Paris into the perfect harmony with unforgettable songs from George and Ira Gershwin in the show that earned more awards than any other musical in the 2014-2015 season! THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Wednesday, May 31, 2017 Sunday, June 11, 2017 Cameron Mackintoshs spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webbers THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA will come to The Smith Center for the Performing Arts as part of a brand new North American Tour. Hailed by critics as bigger and better than ever before, this production boasts many exciting special effects including the shows legendary chandelier, new scenic and lighting designs, new staging and choreography. The beloved story and thrilling score will be performed by a cast and orchestra of 52, making this PHANTOM one of the largest productions now on tour. News / National by Fungai Lupande A HARARE woman who assaulted her three-year-old step daughter fracturing her skull, a rib, hand and leg, has been jailed for two years.Thanks Musvita (20), of Domboramwari in Epworth, pleaded guilty to charges of ill-treatment or neglect of children. Harare magistrate Mr Tendai Rusinahama said the offence attracted a five-year jail term but reduced the punishment."Considering the severity of the offence, I will not suspend the sentence," he said.Prosecutor Mr Francesca Mukumbiri told the court that on December 12 last year, the toddler, Shelleen Mutize, was taken to Harare Central Hospital. Musvita had lied to her husband, Wonder Mutize, that the child fell unconscious after being choked by a banana.She also claimed the child had earlier fallen from her bed while sleeping. A medical doctor who examined the child discovered multiple fractures.The doctor also discovered marks on her body which he suspected were consistent with ill-treatment. Representative Offices (ROs) are an effective tool for foreign investors hoping to analyze Vietnamese market trends and engage in limited cooperation with local companies. Compared to 100 percent Foreign Owned Enterprises (FOEs), however, ROs offer significantly limited functionality. Representative Offices are typically a dependent unit of their respective parent company, forbidden to generate their own profits and prevented from entering directly into contracts. Furthermore, ROs are strictly forbidden to issue invoices. In terms of permitted activities, ROs may recruit local and foreign employees directly or through an agency, lease office space restricted to only one office in a province or city, equip themselves with facilities necessary for operations, obtain their own company seals and open local bank accounts for operational purposes. Decree No. 07/2016/ND-CP Introduced in January of 2016, and effective from March 10th, Decree 7 is to become Vietnams guiding document for the interpretation of the current Commercial Law on Representative Offices (RO) and Branches of Foreign Business Entities in Vietnam. For current and prospective investors, there are a few notable differences between Decree 7 and its predecessor Decree 72/2007 that should be noted: Limits to functionality Previously included under permitted activities within Decree 72/2006, monitoring and activating performance of contracts of the foreign business entity signed with Vietnamese parties or related to Vietnamese markets has been removed from Decree 7. It should be noted that these changes are not retroactive, and thus companies operating in accordance with guidance issued under Decree 72 will be allowed to continue in this manner until the expiration of their existing licenses. Staffing If the head of the representative office plans to leave Vietnam, he or she is required to appoint another individual to carry out his or her tasks during the planned absence. If this period is in excess of 30 days, Decree 7 stipulates that all powers should be formally delegated in writing or the head of the RO should be replaced. Changes to Listed Information Alterations t0 the address or names of representative offices currently registered with governmental authorities require the RO in question to report these changes. Name changes must be notified within 60 days (up from the current limit of 10) via an application to amend the business license. Changes to addresses must be notified to the relevant licensing body. If a change in address results in relocation to another jurisdiction within Vietnam, an application for the reissuance of a business license must be applied for no more than 30 days from the date at which the prior jurisdiction was notified. Updated Licensing Procedures RO establishment shall be granted if the parent company meets the requirements of possessing an authorized business registration certificate in its country of incorporation and being in operation for at least one year since the effective date of incorporation. Licensing authority expanded For many companies, the application dossier for an RO license must be submitted to the Provincial Ministry of Industry and Trade. New to Decree 7, management boards of Special Economic Zones (SEZs) have also been vested with licensing powers for those companies operating within their respective industrial zones, export processing zones, or high tech parks. Shortened issuance times An RO license, valid for five years maximum with an option for renewal, shall now be issued within seven working days from the governments receipt of valid application documents, excluding any time spent amending or supplementing the application. This timeframe is a significant adjustment from the 15-day timeline found under Decree 72. Requisite Documentation An application dossier for obtaining the RO license has not changed under Decree 7 and continues to require the following: An RO application letter and chief representative appointment letter, signed by the legal representative and affixed with the company chop or seal; A notarized copy of the Certificate of Incorporation, business registration certificate of the parent company (if any), or another government-certified document showing the business lines of the parent company (if the registration documents do not mention business lines); A notarized copy of the Company Charter (i.e. Memorandum and Articles of Association); A notarized copy and Vietnamese translation of audited financial reports or other legal alternative documents showing the parent companys latest financial year issued by an independent auditing company; An original copy or valid notarized copy of the official lease contract in Vietnamese, from a landlord certified to lease the office Note: All copies of these documents must be notarized by the Vietnam embassy in the foreign investors country. Documents in a foreign language must be translated to Vietnamese, notarized and certified by the Vietnamese competent agencies. If an application is invalid, the parent company shall receive a written notification within three business days of the date such an application is received. Post-Licensing Procedures Operating Announcement While Decree 72/2006 stipulated requirements relating to the publication of an ROs Establishment, this is no longer required under Decree 7. Opening Bank Accounts Regulations surrounding bank accounts have remained the same under decree 7. An RO is allowed to open bank accounts in Vietnamese Dong and foreign currency bank accounts at licensed banks in Vietnam for payment purposes. These accounts shall be used for the ROs operation activities only. Due to the ROs legal limited scope of activities, the accounts must not be used for profit-generating activities. In case the RO wants to transfer money abroad, it needs to give a reasonable purpose. Last but not least, all the activities related to the ROs accounts including opening, use, and closure must comply with the stipulations of the State Bank of Vietnam (SBV). Tax and Reporting Similar to banking, tax and reporting regulation has seen little change under Decree 7. An RO is not subject to Vietnamese corporate income tax (CIT). However, it still has to pay value-added tax (VAT) when consuming goods or services from other Vietnamese enterprises and is responsible for declaring its employees personal income tax (PIT). An RO must submit a written annual report on its operations of the preceding calendar year before the final working day of January. The benchmark VN Index on the HCM Stock Exchange and the HNX Index on the Ha Noi Stock Exchange fell 0.4 per cent each to close at 564.10 points and 78.74 points, respectively. - VNS Photo Gia Vi The benchmark VN Index on the HCM Stock Exchange and the HNX Index on the Ha Noi Stock Exchange fell 0.4 per cent each to close at 564.10 points and 78.74 points, respectively. Investors tried to lock in profits in bank stocks after banks gained last week. All nine listed banks on both local exchanges fell. Among these banks, Vietcombank (VCB) dropped one per cent, the Bank for Investment and Development of Vietnam (BID) and Vietinbank (CTG) were down 2.2 per cent each, and Military Bank (MBB) plunged 1.4 per cent. Other declining large-cap stocks included Masan Group (MSN), which fell 1.4 per cent, and Vinamilk (VNM), which was down 0.8 per cent. However, improving oil prices helped to lift local energy stocks. London-traded Brent crude rose 1.2 per cent to trade at US$35.51 a barrel and American benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) gained 0.6 per cent to trade at $32.96 a barrel. Among energy stocks, PetroVietnam Gas Corporation (GAS) was up 1.4 per cent, and PetroVietnam Drilling and Well Service Corporation (PVD) increased by two per cent. Investors traded more than 102 million shares, worth VND1.38 trillion ($61 million). The Governments February meeting, February 29, 2016 - Photo: VGP/Nhat Bac At the opening session, PM Dung congratulated Deputy PM Hoang Trung Hai and Minister of Transport Dinh La Thang, and Minister-Chairman Nguyen Van Nen on ttheir new posts. He assessed that the 6.68% GDP growth rate in 2015 was higher than the previous forecast of the National Assembly amidst complicated situations in the global and regional economies and declining oil prices. Hence, the Government leader proposed the Cabinet to raise the growth target from 6.7% to around 7% in 2016. According to the PM, despite the long Tet holidays, the socio-economic performance attained positive outcomes in every area, especially economics and service. PM Dung suggested ministries, agencies, and localities focus on improving the investment environment and speeding up the institutional reform to make full use of signed FTAs for investment attraction and socio-economic development. The PM asked for more effort to speed up ODA disbursement. Ministries, agencies, and localities were tasked to make collective reports in response to a slow-growth global economy, declining global trade, and falling oil prices. The Government leader requested his inferiors to finalize national key construction projects especially expressways and airports; improve social welfare policies; resolve hospital overload; and prepare for university entrance exams. The PM also required good preparations of the five-year socio-economic development report and another report summarizing the Government performance term. Regarding the saline intrusion in the Mekong Delta, PM Dung noted the importance of supplying water for local residents and production. The Ministry of Health was assigned to prepare for epidemic diseases in the dry season. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development was asked to prevent saltwater intrusion. The Ministry of Finance was responsible for budget allocation. Hillary Clinton presidential candidate Hillary Clinton poses for a selfie with a supporter after speaking at Meharry Medical College, Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, in Nashville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Mark Humphrey) You have permission to edit this article. Edit Close News / National by Stephen Jakes ZimFirst president Maxwell Shumba has said his government will stop the illegal grabbing of people's property if his party is voted into power in the 2018 elections.ZimFirst vows to take party in the 2018 election which will be its first time to participate."A new Zimbabwe requires a leader which respects property rights and respects other people, period. Using political muscles to grab other people's property's will end with the going Mugabe and Grace into the sunset," Shumba said. "For the record, our journey is to honor the interests of the Zimbabwean people first." Stranded refugees and migrants protest in front of the wire fence that separates the Greek side from the Macedonian one at the northern Greek border station of Idomeni, Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016. Greek officials said not a single migrant has been allowed into northern neighbor Macedonia, with more than 5,000 people waiting at or near a border crossing to be admitted. More than 20,000 migrants are stuck in Greece, (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) News / National by Felex Share FIVE National Social Security Authority executives sacked last year for gross mismanagement have to pay back more than $1,5 million they awarded themselves as loans and return their company vehicles.This comes as NSSA board chairman Robin Vela revealed that NSSA has come up with a proposed remuneration framework that will see a 25 percent reduction in monthly staff costs.The proposed framework also focuses on reducing a litany of benefits for managers including allowances for holidays, education and children's school fees. The five executives will also surrender other assets to the authority.The Retrenchment Board has given NSSA the nod to retrench the executives in an arrangement that will see their commutable pensions and benefits compensating for the loans.Vela said according to the retrenchment agreement endorsed by the Retrenchment Board, the managers now owed NSSA. "The Retrenchment Board has granted formal authority to retrench four of the ex-employees while the case of the other employee is yet to be finalised," he said.Vela said the mutual agreement was that the managers would be paid a severance package of one month's salary for every year served.He said the managers will pay back the loans they advanced themselves. Vela added that the managers would return company cars and other assets to the authority.The five are James Matiza (general manager) and directors Shadreck Vera (investments), Patrick Mupani (finance), Tendai Mafunda (corporate services) and Bright Chidyagwai (ICT).A forensic audit revealed that the quintet pampered their lovers with dubious loans and awarded themselves monthly salaries of more than $40,000 each. The retrenched managers also face prosecution."Further investigations are underway," Vela said. "Once they've been concluded and we've consulted with the relevant stakeholders, we'll be able to report back on the next course of action."Vela said the proposed remuneration framework was in line with the prevailing economic environment and was "equitable and fair to the authority and staff." Vela said the new framework, if endorsed, would be effective beginning the second quarter of this year."It takes into account, the reduced contributions as a result of shrinking employment and aims to strike a balance between what we're paying our staff versus our payouts to pensioners," he said."In broad terms, the new framework, which is still to be finalised pending consultations with stakeholders, will result in a much needed approximate 25 percent reduction in gross monthly staff costs to the authority."He went on: "We've reduced a litany of benefits, such as holiday, education and child school fees among others, and their corresponding costs of administration. We've replaced company cars with expenses funded by the authority to an individual vehicle ownership scheme. The employer pension contribution has been reduced from 18 percent of basic salary to 7,5 percent in line with other government departments caps. Overall we're moving towards more of a "cost to company" model of employment in line with modern global trends."The Matiza-led management made questionable investments of $100 million, including buying shares in poorly-run companies and properties at inflated prices.Vela said a new general manager for the authority would be appointed soon. He said: "Two recruitment agencies have been appointed to conduct the search for a general manager and senior management team."Their brief is to scour the globe for Zimbabweans with integrity, appropriate professional qualifications and experience to take the Authority forward."NSSA management came under fire for splurging $2,5 million in the now defunct CFX Bank, $12 million on overpriced Star Africa Corporation shares, and $1,5 million on Africom Continental.At least $45 million is locked in Interfin Bank, which is now under curatorship. NSSA also lost $11,2 million worth of property to local authorities for failing to develop them.The institution also dished out "non-profitable" loans to parastatals such as National Oil Company of Zimbabwe ($3,1 million), Zesa ($9 million) and Cottco ($8 million). Activists have cast doubt on whether Prime Minister Hun Sens new initiative for the countrys problems to be solved through social media can tackle the countrys most pervasive problemland disputes. The long-serving ruler has declared that Facebook is now the best way for Cambodian citizens to raise concerns with his government. A spokesman told VOA Khmer that commenting on Hun Sens Facebook page was better than submitting a petition. Hun Senwho as the head of the ruling Cambodian Peoples Party holds almost absolute power within Cambodias government apparatushas used his Facebook page so far to coordinate the launch of the new Traffic Law at the start of this year, and in responding to public calls on the site to lift tolls on National Road 4. This may seem like a smart, modern way to the solve problems. But land rights activists who have over the years tried myriad methods of raising awareness of land issues among the authoritiesoften to no availare doubtful. Land disputes have been a major source of conflict in Cambodia since the government began giving concessions to companies in the 1990s. It is believed that more than 2 million hectares of land were at one stage leased to private firms, often in exchange for nominal sums paid into official coffers under the economic land concession, or ELC, policy. Hun Sen placed a freeze on new ELCs in 2012, but disputes remain over many of the concessions, which were often issued for areas occupied by residents or covered with virgin forests. Eng Vuthy, executive director for the nongovernmental organization Equitable Cambodia said that raising land disputes with the government had never been the problem. But this was usually followed by government inaction, he said. It depends on whether the government takes measures to solve the problems, Vuthy said. If the people submit questions and they solve the issue immediately, it might reduce the protests. Sia Phearum, secretariat director of Housing Rights Task Force, noted that the government had set up a national committee to tackle land disputes after the freeze of new ELCs. That committee lacked effectiveness, however, he said, suggesting that real solutions to land disputes have to come from the prime minister himself. Only if there is an order from the PM do the people under supervision take action immediately, said Phearum. But a moment later the committee becomes inactive. While Hun Sen has ordered his officials to be responsive to the public on Facebook, he might instead find a way to make sure his officials perform their ordinary tasks properly, he added. Tep Vanny, one of thousands of residents of the former Boeng Kak lake area of Phnom Penh who were kicked out of their homes to make way for a massive development project, has lead protests demanding a fair settlement. The residents have staged public protests on the streetsoften met with brute force by the authoritiesand gathered signatures for petitions that they delivered to Hun Sens own home. Despite years of a highly visible protest campaign, some Boeng Kak residents still say they have not received adequate compensation for their homes. Given this history, Vanny is not optimistic that the prime ministers Facebook initiative will make the government more responsive to land conflicts. Nobody wants to struggle with protest and face a violent response if there can be a peaceful solution. But they have no choice, she said. Previously, we have taken a lot of actions. We tried to submit a petition at the PMs residence as well as other institutions. However, the outcome was not so positive. Government spokesman Phay Siphan acknowledged that the government had not always been responsive to citizens demands. But he said Hun Sens plans for using Facebook would help to bridge the gap. Reporting their problems through that platform is better than submitting a petition, Siphan said. The people can just write on Facebook from anywhere. That way the prime minister can see what the people are demanding. A special committee in each ministry will respond accordingly. If its about politics, the PM will respond directly, he added. Cambodia will need several years to chart a path toward joining the US-led Trans-Pacific Partnership, but Commerce Minister Sun Chanthol believes it would be worth the effort. The trade pact so far has 12 partners, including the US, but it will take at least two years for the TPP to be endorsed by their respective lawmaking bodies, Sun Chanthol told reporters recently. In the future, Cambodia could also join. I believe that Cambodia is a small but open nation, he said. We dont forbid a lot of things in Cambodia. Hence, if we sign a lot of bilateral agreement with other nations in the world, it is a really good thing for Cambodia. Sun Chanthols comments mark the second time Cambodian trade officials have shown support for the TPP, whose prospective members include ASEAN neighbors Brunei, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam. The deal extends favorable trade conditions to members, but requires they shore up regulations on intellectual property rights and other trade regulations. That could mean hurdles for Cambodia. In terms of intellectual property rights, we might find it hard to fulfill the requirements because in our country there are a lot of counterfeit products, Chan Sophal, director of the Center for Policy Studies, told VOA Khmer. Still, the deal would be worth it, for the low or zero tariffs. It would help Cambodia in terms of exporting more garments to the US, he said. ASEAN ministers, including Sun Chanthol, discussed the deal at the US-ASEAN summit in Southern California earlier this month. It could eventually group 40 percent of the global GDP and could compete with the Chinese-led Regional Economic Comprehensive Partnership. The US has talked about conducting a workshop to explain to the nations that are not yet TPP members to understand the agreement, Sun Chanthol told reporters. Hence, we are preparing to understand more and explore the TPP deal from the US. Let them explain to us the related points to the work, the environment, and so on. Relationships between ordinary Cambodian women and foreign men often are stigmatized as commercial or exploitative. But the truth is in fact multi-layered and complex, as in any relationship where intimacy and material benefit are in play, according to one researcher. Heidi Hoefinger is a professor at Berkeley College, New York, and the author of Sex, Love and Money in Cambodia: Professional Girlfriends and Transactional Relationships. Her unique book examines very closely the lives of Cambodian women who have foreign partners to understand how these women use intimacy to seek socio-economic empowerment. In an ironic twist in a conservative society like Cambodia, these women are often praised for having transactional relationship with foreign men, which bring in money to support their families. But they are also stigmatized for breaking social norms. In a recent interview with VOA Khmer, Hoefinger explained in depth the interaction between intimacy and economic pragmatism in these relationships. In this context of transactional relationshipsCambodian women use intimacy as a tool to initiate and maintain long-term relationships with foreign men, not only to maintain their love, but also to secure material benefits, she said. Hoefinger travelled to Cambodia as a backpacker in 2003, fell in love with the country and befriended many Cambodian women who worked in Phnom Penhs bars. That turned into an extended period of research, during which she found that some women from rural Cambodia end up working at Western bars and night clubs in Phnom Penh because bar work gives more security, better pay and more freedom in terms of working hours. But the environment in the bars tends to encourage female bar workers to negotiate between their obligation to obey social norms and the decision to seek intimacy and material benefits from foreign partners, which means having premarital sex. While it is considered taboo in Cambodia, pre-marital sex is widespread. Surveys of schoolchildren have found that 15 percent of boys and 11.2 percent of girls aged between 13 and 15 years old have already had sex, according to the U.N. Population Fund. Rates are predicted to be higher among those not enrolled in school. For Cambodian women with foreign partners, Hoefinger said that love and material needs are inevitably intertwined. For the women, emotionality and love are attached to material needs and economic pragmatism, she said, noting that Cambodian culture has its own ideas about reciprocal exchange linked to marriage. The colloquial term milk money is used to refer to a payment from the grooms to the brides family, in effect paying for the price of the upbringingor the mothers milkof the bride, Hoefinger explained. Its still pretty much culturally expected that when a daughter is married, it brings the material back to the rest of the family, she said. So the idea of these Cambodian women desiring a man to help support her and her family should not be attributed to some forms of greedbut sometime it israther it is deeply rooted cultural expectation. In Cambodia, the line between marriage, transactional sex and prostitution can be ambiguous, she argued. Therefore, all relationships between Cambodian women and foreign men are often labeled as commodified and commercial, inappropriate and inauthentic. Among Western men there may be a cultural expectation that a womans demands for material goodsjewelry and gifts, for examplerepresent insincere love or intimacy. This is something that leads to mistrust and uncertainty, which leads to framing the women as greedy whore, thief and liar, said Hoefinger. Her research also found that, in some cases, the cultural misunderstanding, the confusion and the mistrust, lead to a lot of different psycho-behavioral consequences, including emotional and physical violence. This is even more problematic since mental health care provision is so lacking in Cambodia. One of my goals is that the research can be used to help facilitate the development of a local and international intervention program that focuses on cultural orientation for couples, relationship counseling, mental health services, depression and gender-based violence, she said, adding that attention should also be paid to the risks of self-harm, abuse and even suicide among those in cross-cultural relationships. Phnom Penh Municipal Court last week opened a trial against a university student accused of trying to start a revolution via Facebook. Kong Raya, 25, was arrested in August 2015, after posting a call on Facebook for others to join him in a color revolution. He told the court Friday he did not understand the implication and had thought it only meant to gather as a form of peaceful protest, and he pled the judge for leniency. Am Sam Ath, a technical coordinator for the rights group Licadho, said the charges are severe and likely meant to stifle government dissent. In our view, the youth just expressed his opinion, Am Sam Ath said. It didnt seem to be the concern of a criminal indictment, because after he posted on Facebook, nothing happened. A verdict is expected March 15. Kong Rayas lawyer, Sam Sokkong, said his client has been critical of the government, but he has not committed a crime or sought to incite anyone. He said he hopes the court will release the young man; otherwise, he plans to appeal. Prime Minister Hun Sen said in a speech Friday that youths play an important role for the development of the country. But he also warned that some youth had become political tools with extremist views. Technology giant Apple plans to tell a U.S. congressional panel Tuesday that a demand by law enforcement authorities to unlock an iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino, California terrorists who killed 14 people "would set a dangerous precedent for government intrusion" into the lives of people. In an advance copy of his testimony, Apple general counsel Bruce Sewell says that building the software needed to break into the phone used by Syed Rizwan Farook would debilitate the security of hundreds of millions of other Apple devices used by the company's customers throughout the world. "Building that software tool would not affect just one iPhone," Sewell says. "It would weaken the security for all of them.... We can all agree this is not about access to just one iPhone." The top U.S. law enforcement agency, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, is demanding that Apple create software that would allow investigators to check the phone to see if Farook, an American-born Muslim, was in contact with others about the early December attack he carried out with his Pakistani-born wife, Tashfeen Malik. Both were killed hours later in a shootout with police. A court magistrate in California has ordered Apple to comply with the demand, but the outcome is uncertain pending Apple's appeal. In New York Monday, a different court magistrate ruled that the Justice Department cannot force Apple to comply. A Justice Department spokesman expressed disappointment in that ruling and said the department plans to appeal. If the California judge's order is upheld, other law enforcement officials say they will ask the company to unlock other Apple devices involved in criminal investigations. One survey in the U.S. showed that a majority of Americans favor the government's position in the dispute. The African Union says it will send 200 military advisers and human rights observers to Burundi, 10 months into the countrys violent political crisis over President Pierre Nkrunzizas third term. International diplomatic efforts appear to be making little headway. Five African heads of state were in Burundi last week to push for an end to the crisis. The outcome has been underwhelming for some. Pancase Cimpanye is deputy spokesman for the political opposition now in exile, CNARED. We are a bit disappointed with AU delegation because they did not emphasize the importance of the peace accord agreement of Arusha. They did not emphasize the need to come around a table of talks outside the country, talks between Nkurunziza and CNARED, I mean the opposition, and they did not talk about the AU force," said Cimpanye. Rights agencies say at least 400 people have been killed during the crisis. Another 200,000 have fled the country. In December, the African Union proposed sending 5,000 troops to Burundi, but the bloc backed off when the government rejected the initiative. Zuma said Saturday the African Union will now send 100 human rights monitors and 100 military advisers to Burundi. Those monitors may find their work difficult, says Amnesty International researcher Rachel Nicholson. The situation in Burundi is very tense at the moment and it is very difficult for human rights observers to carry out their work. We have seen situations deteriorate rapidly over the last 10 months, and current trends are frequent arrests of young people particularly from opposition neighborhood, the security situation has also deteriorated," said Nicholson. Zuma also reiterated the African Unions calls for inclusive dialogue. The Burundi government has insisted it is ready. But research associate at the Institute for Security Studies in Nairobi, Yolande Bouka, says there is still disagreement about who will participate, even in the wake of these high-level A.U. and U.N. visits. When Ban Ki-moon went to visit Bujumbura a few days ago, the government agreed to inclusive dialogue, but they turned around and said the armed opposition, CNARED and people who are believed to involved in the coup will not be invited or involved in the mediation so this a bit contradictory when we know the international community is expecting mediation to be all among the stakeholders," said Bouka. The Burundi opposition says the African Unions choice of mediator could also be holding things up. Ugandan President Yoweri Museveni was preoccupied with his own bid for a fifth term in office February 18. It is a distraction that may continue as tensions remain high in Kampala over the arrest of opposition challengers and alleged vote rigging. The Vatican's chief finance officer said the Catholic church in Australia "mucked things up" in its dealings with pedophile priests. Australian Cardinal George Pell, too weak to travel to his homeland, testified Sunday from a hotel in Rome via a videolink to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in Sydney. Pell told the commission: "I am not here to defend the indefensible." The cardinal said the Australian church had made "enormous mistakes" over the years that resulted in thousands of children being raped and molested by priests. Allegations dismissed In the past, Pell said, it was "much, much more difficult for the child to be believed," and their allegations were often dismissed "in absolutely scandalous circumstances." He said, "There were very, very, very plausible allegations made by responsible people that were not followed up sufficiently." The cardinal's testimony came just hours before Spotlight, the film that depicts the Boston Globe's investigation into child sexual abuse in the Roman Catholic church, won the Academy Award for best picture. Notorious pedophile priest Pell denied having anything to do with the transferring of Australia's most notorious pedophile priest, Gerald Ridsdale, to various parishes around Ballarat, where he preyed on children for decades. Pell was a consultant to former Ballarat Bishop Ronald Mulkearns. "I have just re-read the file of Ridsdale. The priest the ex priest and the way he was dealt with was a catastrophe. A catastrophe for the victims and a catastrophe for the church," Pell said. "In those days," Pell said, "if a priest denied such activity, I was very strongly inclined to accept the denial." David Ridsdale, who was abused by his uncle, said he was glad the horror of what happened to him and others in Ballarat is finally receiving world attention. David Ridsdale, who was among a group of Australians who traveled to Rome, said, "We're here to seek the truth. We're here to heal our city.We have the highest suicide rate among men in Australia.We have some of the worst drinking and violence problems.And it all stems from that abuse." The commission cannot file criminal charges, but commissioners can refer what they believe are criminal matters to police and prosecutors. A research group says Chinas arms exports have almost doubled in five years as the country has moved to become a major player in the global industry. Chinese exports of major arms grew by 88 percent between 2011 and 2015, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI). China is actively pushing for exports. A lot of the exports are going to countries where China has had good relations for a long time, so theres also a strategic incentive for China to supply weapons. Pakistan for example, Bangladesh, Myanmar, said Siemon Wezeman, a senior researcher with the institute. China is now the worlds third largest arms exporter behind the U.S. and Russia, and the country accounted for nearly six percent of arms exports between 2011 and 2015. The U.S. and Russias weapons exports grew by 27 and 28 percent respectively during the same period, although both countries are still far ahead of China and the rest of the world in total sales. Imports of arms to China fell 25 percent compared with the previous five-year period, indicating that China now has the technological capability and know how to produce many of its own weapons. Wezeman said territorial disputes and the growing modernization of Chinas military may be spurring an arms race in Asia. Chinas military budget was up 10 percent from the year before, to more than $141 billion. You can see a general arms build-up in Asia. You can see countries reacting to what neighbors are doing, and a strong driver for this is Chinese military modernization, expanding Chinese capabilities, linked to a quite assertive Chinese policy, he said. Vietnam jumped from 43rd place to become the eighth-largest arms importer from 2011 to 2015. The country now accounts for roughly 3 percent of world-wide arms purchases during that period. India imported 14 percent of globally traded arms during that time period. Tensions rising across Asia Gregory Poling is the director of the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative and a fellow with the Sumitro Chair for Southeast Asia Studies at CSIS. Poling said China's recent actions in the South China Sea are raising tensions throughout Southeast Asia. More immediately this is clearly destabilizing the wider region, for states like Vietnam, the Philippines and Indonesia, would much rather be focused on economic development and boosting regional architecture," Poling said. "Instead theyre caught in what they see as an almost existential need to boost their militaries, to purchase arms, to divert budgets towards modernization in ways that they would rather not but theyre facing a Beijing that they see as an increasing security threat. Five trillion dollars in global trade passes through the waterway every year, and the sea is thought to be rich in oil and gas reserves. Bonnie Glaser, a senior adviser for Asia and the director of the China Power Project at CSIS, said while territorial disputes may boost arms sales in Asia, China's neighbors' won't be able to keep up with the pace of China's military modernization. They want to have other choices rather than feeling that they simply have to accommodate to China, and they dont have enough capability, even with their increased weapons spending and procurements, no country on Chinas border is going to be able to keep up with China," Glaser said. "Look at its defense spending. So countries are going to have to find more creative ways. They can certainly enhance their own capabilities. Collaboration among Chinas neighbors has already increased to protect their territorial claims. Earlier this month Vietnam announced it will allow India to set up a satellite tracking center in southern Vietnam that will provide it with access to overhead images of the South China Sea. An American college student detained in North Korea has publicly confessed to attempting to steal a political banner from a Pyongyang hotel. Otto Warmbier appeared before a group of domestic and foreign journalists Monday in the North Korean capital, accompanied by North Korean guards. The 21-year-old University of Virginia student, who was visiting North Korea with a tour group, was arrested last month before boarding a plane out of the country. He has been charged with committing a hostile act against the state, with the help of the United States. WATCH: Detained American makes confession in North Korea Warmbier told reporters he removed a political slogan from a staff-only area of the hotel where the group was staying to give to a member of his church who wanted the banner to display as a "trophy." He said the church member offered him a used car worth $10,000. If he was caught and unable to return, the church member said Warmbier's mother would get $200,000. Pyongyang has not said what possible punishment Warmbier may face. A State Department spokesman later Monday said that as a general practice, North Korea arrests and imprisons people for actions that would not give rise to arrests, let alone imprisonment, in the United States. He added there's little doubt that North Korea uses detention as a tool for propaganda purposes. North Korea has often detained Americans and other foreign citizens on trumped up charges. The detainees are usually brought before foreign journalists to read statements confessing to crimes committed against the dictatorial regime. The statements are widely considered to have been coerced, and detainees often recant their confessions after their release. News / National by Stephen Jakes A political commentator Ngqabutho Mabhena has said the government of Zimbabwe must not try to lure Zimbabweans in the diaspora before it allows them to vote.At the moment the diaspora votes are not yet authorised in the exception of those in diplomatic missions."Our broke govt sees diaspora as importan. It's a noble move but they need to allow diaspora to vote. After that we can take them serious and talk of investing in Zimbabwe. Meanwhile what measures are in place to protect investments? Looting is still going on, corruption is the order of the day," he said.Mabhena's remarks come in the wake of media reports that the government was intensifying diaspora engagement efforts in an attempt to attract more foreign direct investment by lining up diaspora engagement conferences in South Africa, Australia and United Kingdom to engage more than 3 million Zimbabweans resident in those countries.Macroeconomic Planning and Investment Promotion Minister Obert Mpofu said his ministry will be engaging diasporans in the UK, South Africa and Australia starting from next month. Diasporans contribute an average of $1,5 billion annually in remittances.Cabinet is expected to adopt the National Diaspora Policy to Cabinet which was presented to Cabinet late last year. The policy among other issues is meant to encourage diasporans to invest back home.Minister Mpofu said it is a good thing for the diasporans to work together with the Government to attract FDI."It is a good thing that our brothers and sisters who are in the diapora are willing to work with us for the good of our country,"We are in the process of visiting most capitals where Zimbabweans reside so that we can see how best they can invest back home."Minister Mpofu said Government is encouraging diasporans to invest back home.Chairman of the newly formed Zimbabweans In the Diaspora Organisation Blessed Kapesa said diasporans play a very critical role in attracting FDIs and Government's initiative to engage was most welcome."There is big potential for financial benefit to Zimbabwe because the diaspora market is still untapped."We are talking in terms of millions considering people here are the gross contributors in the remittances realised per year."The organisation is expected to be officially launched in the United Kingdom in April.Government has already partnered International Labour Organisation which has enormous experience in encouraging diasporans to invest back home to their countries. A new U.S. political survey shows billionaire real estate mogul Donald Trump taking command in the race for the Republican presidential nomination, with former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton grabbing a strong lead in the Democratic contest. CNN/ORC said 49 percent of Republicans support Trump, more than his four remaining challengers combined. His closest opponent, Florida Senator Marco Rubio, is at 16 percent, followed by Texas Senator Ted Cruz at 15 percent. In the Democratic race, the poll showed Clinton, the country's top diplomat from 2009 to 2013, with a widening lead over her lone opponent, Vermont's democratic socialist Senator Bernie Sanders, 55 to 38 percent. Both Republicans and Democrats are getting set for nominating contests Tuesday in 11 states, the biggest electoral day so far in the months-long campaign. Trump is favored in 10 of the states on what is called "Super Tuesday," all except in the southwestern state of Texas, where Cruz hopes to win on his home turf. Clinton is looking to capture the majority of the contests she faces against Sanders, who has campaigned against the country's growing income inequality and the clout of giant Wall Street financial firms. Name-calling contest The Republican nomination race has quickly evolved into a taunting, name-calling contest, with Rubio and Trump disparaging each other's physical traits. Trump often refers the Florida lawmaker as "Little Marco Rubio," who "trowels" on makeup to hide his pronounced ears and says he "couldn't get elected dogcatcher." Rubio on Sunday made light of Trump's "little hands" and a bad "spray tan" on his face. In recent days, Rubio has derided Trump as a "con artist" trying to hijack the Republican party. Establishment Republican figures, many of whom have endorsed Rubio and vowed not to support Trump, are worried that he would not be able to defeat Clinton in November's national election and that Republicans would sustain significant losses in Congress, where they now control both the Senate and the House of Representatives. "Remember: Friends do not let friends vote for con artists," Rubio warned at one rally. Rubio also derided Trump's refusal Sunday on a CNN news show to disavow support offered him by David Duke, a former leader of the racist Ku Klux Klan. Although he answered the questions clearly Sunday, Trump on Monday claimed that the television network had given him a "very bad earpiece" that led to his confusion. Trump said he had disavowed Duke's support in other forums "all weekend long." Super Tuesday predictions Rubio is not predicting victory in any of the states voting Tuesday, instead hoping to win delegates to the party's July national presidential nominating convention that will be apportioned state by state based on the vote counts. He is aiming for his first nomination victory in the winner-take-all contest March 15 in Florida, his home state in the southeastern U.S. Cruz is warning that the "Trump train" could be "unstoppable" if he wins big victories Tuesday. Cruz has repeatedly told voters he is the only one to defeat Trump so far, in the first caucus in Iowa, although Trump has subsequently won contests in three other states. Republicans are focusing on campaigning Monday in the South, which accounts for two-thirds of the delegates that will be awarded Tuesday. Trump is holding events in Virginia and Georgia, while Rubio is campaigning in Arkansas. Cruz is focusing his efforts on his home state and the 155 delegates at stake there out of the 595 to be awarded in the 11 states. Clinton, looking to a possible general election against Trump, has also started to aim attacks at him and the remaining Republican contenders, all but ignoring Sanders, her immediate opponent. "What we can't let happen is the scapegoating, the flaming, the finger pointing that is going on the Republican side," Clinton told voters Monday in Massachusetts. "It really undermines our fabric as a nation. So, I want to do everything I can in this campaign to set us on a different course." WATCH: Suspense builds before Super Tuesday contests Candidates Campaign Before Super Tuesday Contests: Police in Fort Wayne, in the north-central U.S. state of Indiana, are asking for a community's help in solving the "execution-style" killings of two men and a teenager whose families are immigrants from Africa's Sahel region. Officers found the bodies of 23-year-old Mohamedtaha Omar, 20-year-old Adam Kamel Mekki and 17-year-old Muhannad Adam Tairab last week in a home in the city of Fort Wayne. A coroner ruled their deaths homicides. At least two of the dead were Muslims, and while authorities have not identified any motive in the case, they have said they do not believe the victims' nationality or religion were a factor in the murders. Despite those statements, people took to social media to highlight the lack of attention the case has garnered in the days after the killings. Using hashtags #OurThreeBoys and #OurThreeBrothers, Twitter users said the victims being black and Muslim explains a lack of outrage or media coverage. Some asked if that would be the case if the victims were white, or if the killer were Muslim. Thousands of people have signed an online petition calling on Fort Wayne police to fully investigate the killings, saying they warrant a full probe. "The current response from law enforcement immediately being dismissive of the idea that this might be a hate crime and hinting at gang violence is deeply troubling in a time of growing Islamophobia and mass criminalization of black youth," the petition says. Police Chief Garry Hamilton said he has consulted with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in case investigators find a link to nationality or religion being a motive. Local television station WANE quoted Abdelaziz Hassab, a relative of both Omar and Tairab, saying they "will be remembered as good kids." "We all came here to find peace and security," Hassab said. "We're from the war zones, but the destiny waiting for us is real crazy." Angie Abadi is a 45-year-old lesbian who now lives with her partner in Hobart, Tasmania. But she was born and raised in Yogyakarta, Central Java. When she was 12, she realized her attraction to the same gender. But not until she was in university did she come out to her parents about her sexual orientation. Luckily, her parents accepted her despite the social risks. Not everyone is so accepting in a society where anti-gay rhetoric is still common and public figures quickly speak out against lesbians, gays, bisexuals and transgendered people (LGBT). Angie realized that living as a lesbian in Indonesia might bring social problems to her family. I want to live in somewhere else out of Indonesia, far far away from my family, thats what in my head when I realized that I was gay, because I know that the way I am is going to influence my family, Abadi said. In 2002, Angie decided to pack her bags and moved to Australia. LGBT spotlight Being gay or lesbian has never been outlawed in Indonesia, except in the province of Aceh, where sharia, or Islamic law, has been implemented. But recent controversies about gays and lesbians in Indonesia have been surfacing in the public and on social media. It was started by outrage over a counseling brochure distributed by a gay support group. Support Group and Resource Center of Sexualities Studies (SGRC), established at the University of Indonesia in 2014, says it aims to promote, educate and develop programs related to sexuality, reproduction and sexual orientation. SGRC has been criticized and accused by public officials as being pro gay rights. Lack of understanding Andreas Harsono, an Indonesian researcher for Human Rights Watch says the gay and lesbian community in Indonesia has been facing discrimination for years despite their reluctance to campaign for rights like same sex marriage. He said this minority group only wants certain rights to be respected, like the rights to be able to work and gather with the community where they can freely express themselves, discuss or ask questions about being different. But now its becoming more complicated for them just to ask a question, poor them. There are so many people who have given anti-LGBT comments who dont understand the real problem, Harsono said. Restriction implementation The Indonesian Broadcasting Commission banned radio and television stations from airing any program that portrayed lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender behavior as normal. The ban reportedly followed a meeting with the Indonesian Child Protection Commission, which was concerned about the increasing number of television programs starring members of the LGBT community. Before that, the Indonesian government ordered the instant messaging app called Line to remove all same-sex emojis or be banned from the country. Ismail Yusanto, a spokesman from one of the biggest Muslim organizations in Indonesia, Hizbut Tahrir Indonesia, believes the government should make regulations to ban LGBT activities and action before the community grows too large. Yusanto added LGBT people can be "back to normal" after they repent. We believe that based on science and according to experts that actually LGBT [people] could become normal, Yusanto said. The belief that sexual orientation is a contagious disease that can be cured is common in Indonesia, where the sentiment frequently shows up in social media comments. The lack of understanding and education about LGBT in Indonesia often creates wider prejudice, according to Hartoyo, director of an NGO that supports LGBT rights. For the LGBT issue in Indonesia, [we] dont have many information about LGBT rights, or information about sexuality, about gender identity, about sexual orientation. So [its a] very moral panic, said Hartoyo, who goes by one name. Many who are fighting for public education and for the rights of gays and lesbians say they are no longer safe, saying they have been the targets of threats and intimidation in the past month. The growing discrimination and intolerance related to LGBT draw the attention and concern of Angie in Tasmania. In her home town, authorities have decided to close down an Islamic school for transgender students after receiving pressure from local religious hardliners. Facing an increasing tide of female and young jihadists, the government of the Central Asian nation of Kyrgyzstan is turning to women for help. The chairman of the State Committee on Religious Affairs, Orozbek Moldaliev, says women are more prone to adopt extremist ideas because they have been neglected in religious education and are suffering economically. For this reason, the government has started programs to teach educated women how to counter the extremism narrative and resist its lures. We will organize workshops and trainings for activist women, Moldaliev said. We expect that women who get these trainings will pass them on to others as well. The programs employ a large number of lecturers nationwide, including women from international aid groups, local law enforcement officers, and officials from the government. Among the key players are local zhensovets - women councils. The meetings take place in public libraries, local city halls, theaters, schools and universities with female students, teachers, housewives and others in attendance. The lectures introduce the women to the values of traditional Islam, followed by talks unmasking the real face of extremism trough the stories of people. The women also learn about the state law on extremism. According to the International Crisis Group, there are roughly 8,000 members in the radical Hizbut-Takhrir movement, about 2,000 of whom are women. The group recently issued a report called Women and Radicalization in Kyrgyzstan, highlighting a problem of growing extremism found throughout Central Asia. No exact numbers Analysts say the number of radicalized women in the country may be higher. We can only speak of estimates. I do not think anybody knows exact numbers, Noah Tucker, the managing editor of Registar.net and an associate professor for Central Asia at The George Washington University, told VOA. Women are among the prominent ranks of jihadists who have left the country to join Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. By Tuckers estimate, around 300 IS fighters are from Kyrgyzstan, including women and children. The issue of IS fighters from Central Asia is a continuous one, especially between Russia and its former Central Asian republics. Russias main government-controlled TV channel, Russia 24, recently reported from Osh and said the region is a source of IS manpower, adding that many IS fighters from Central Asia are entering Russia disguised as labor migrants. Russian security said this week that it detained seven suspected IS members from Central Asia who are accused of plotting terrorist attacks in Moscow and Saint Petersburg. The Kyrgyz media have pushed back on the Russian reports, saying the majority of IS fighters are not being recruited in Kyrgyzstanin, but in Russia where they migrate for economic reasons. But Kyrgyzstan's Ministry of Internal Affairs says that at least 508 people have left Kyrgyzstan to become IS fighters, 204 of them women and minors. Many come from Osh, a seat of radicalism in the region. Appeal to mothers According to rights groups and activists, women and children are subject to subservient roles in Kyrgyzstan, making them susceptible to radicalization. What can you expect from a woman who is uneducated and does not have a voice and rights in the family? asked Kyrgyz author Salima Sharipova, who heads the Mother Umay party. Matluba Musaboeva heads a Women and Girls Committee of Uzgan in impoverished Osh, which has been a fertile recruiting ground for IS. She says appealing to mothers might be an effective way to prevent young people from joining extremist groups. Nobody wants her children to get involved in wrongdoings, she said. However, we need more programs on these issues. Musaboeva says many Kyrgyz women are suffering from high unemployment and isolation, which make them vulnerable to jihadist recruiting. Analyst Tucker agrees. More devout, more educated Muslims in Central Asia usually are not the ones who join IS, he said. More than educational programs for women are needed to curb the jihadist lure, Tucker said. Lack of education is not the only reason many people join IS in Syria and Iraq, analysts say. Socioeconomic factors also drive women and young people to leave Kyrgyzstan, they say. The ethnic Uzbek minority in the south doesnt get government services in general, Tucker told VOA. The state approach toward women in Kyrgyzstan is more complicated than limited access to education and social negligence, government critics say. In June 2013, the parliament passed a law banning all women under the age of 23 from traveling abroad without a male guardian. Sharipova of the Mother Umay party says in such a male-dominated society, men are expected to come up with solutions for every problem. She said countering extremism among women is a mans job. They should defend their homes, families, mothers, spouses, sisters, and daughters from threats. Family is like a motherland and a fatherland, she said. Corruption scandals have tainted Moldova's pro-European leadership and boosted support for pro-Russia parties that argue for closer ties with its Soviet-era ally, Moscow. Moldova's pro-Russia parties say the West for years supported corrupt Europe-leaning politicians running the country, and therefore, they argue, a re-alignment with Moscow is the way forward. Igor Dodon, a protest leader with Moldovas Socialist Party, has a photo of Russian President Vladimir Putin on his office wall and makes no secret about which direction he wants to see his country take. The strategic interest of Moldova is [solving] the economic problems and the country's integrity, he told VOA. This objective can be achieved only in strategic partnership with the Russian Federation. At an outdoor market in central Chisinau, vendors sell Russian nesting dolls as well as T-shirts with images of President Putin appearing tough and chastising European leaders and U.S. President Barack Obama. Moldova's prime minister, Pavel Filip, in an exclusive interview with VOA, acknowledges corrupt politicians have tainted his country's EU integration,. Unfortunately, the European path was exploited by some politicians in Moldova, which is why today we are in the situation to regain the trust of our external partners through actions, he said. The European Union froze budget funds to Moldova after a billion dollars disappeared from banks. Some officials have been replaced or arrested, including a former prime minister, but the money has yet to be found. Meanwhile, protest groups have been calling for new elections and systemic reforms to remove EU-leaning, but oligarch-backed political elite who have been ruling the country since the communists lost power in 2009. Filip disagrees that Russia offers a better path. Moldova has made its choice with the signing of the EU Association Agreement. We believe that Moldova's path to economic development is better to coincide with the European path, he said. Harboring problems Many in Moldova criticize both the former and current governments as harboring corruption; but, even some political parties that agree Moldova's system is broken say Europe is still the country's future. Andrei Nastase, a protest leader with the Dignity and Truth Party, argues many politicians leaning to either side of the debate are opportunists rather than principled believers. From the political point of view, the so-called "pro-Russia parties" benefited from the discrediting of the EU integration idea by the current so-called "pro-European parties," he said. While public support for a European path remains high, a demographic crisis is on the horizon as many Moldovan youth take advantage of EU visa-free travel to leave for better opportunities. At a young entrepreneurs seminar in Chisinau about business with Europe, participants and organizers admit the temptation is there to escape Moldovas problems. Because we are still in the process of development and we are still in the process of building our democracy and our free market and everything, said Alexandrina Robu with the Youth European Business Association Moldova. So, it is difficult, but nobody will build our country except us." Some at the seminar still see opportunity at home in a Moldova that remains on the European path. Varlam Cristina is developing a crowdfunding platform for Moldovan start-ups and charity projects. I believe that Moldova's future is in the EU, but there is a long process before we can join. The government is resisting it, there is an administrative side to it. But, we see development, innovation and democracy in the EU, so this is the direction we have to follow, she said. Moldova's young entrepreneurs say enforcing European laws and standards would help reverse the flow, but a changing of the old guard may first be needed. The overall success of a fragile cease-fire in Syria will largely depend on the steps taken by the major stakeholders in the conflict over the next few days, say analysts monitoring the crisis. On Saturday, the Syrian regime and rebels launched an initial two-week cessation of hostilities under a plan facilitated by the 17-nation International Syria Support Group. On Monday, U.N. Secretary General Ban-Ki Moon acknowledged there had been some incidents but said the pause in fighting was largely holding. The motivation of the Syrian opposition and of the Syrian regime, which is backed by Russia and Iran, to continue the cessation will largely depend on the pace of efforts to resume peace talks between the government and the opposition, said Steven Heydemann via Skpe. Heydemann is a Middle East policy analyst at the Brookings Institution. It is very important that we pay close attention, over the coming weeks, to the efforts of the U.N. special envoy Staffan de Mistura, to put the political process back on track, said Heydemann. If he is not able to get that moving within the next few days, he said, that will be reflected in the pace at which the ceasefire begins to collapse. De Mistura has set a tentative March 7 date for the resumption of talks on a political transition. Cease-fire benefits regime An initial round of proximity talks between the regime and the opposition bogged down in early February, partly due to opposition complaints about the Russian-backed Syrian governments relentless bombing campaign on opposition groups that were part of the talks. Heydemann said the parties involved in the conflict also needed to use this time to craft a plan of what to do when cease-fire violations are encountered. He said if the issue remains unresolved, the key players in the conflict would perceive that they could violate the cease-fire agreement with impunity. Analysts also say the cessation, as it currently stands, benefits the Syrian regime and its backers more than the opposition. It allows them to consolidate their gains and undertake other measures to neuter the opposition, said Adam Ereli, a foreign policy expert and vice chairman of the Mercury public strategy firm. It gives the opposition some time to breathe, said Ereli, but remember they are incredibly divided. Looking into violations U.S. officials have welcomed the overall reduction of fighting in Syria but say they want a review of claims that there were some initial violations of the truce. We are going to watch this very, very closely, said State Department spokesman John Kirby. What you really want here is zero [reports of cease-fire violations] unless it is against [Jabhat al-] Nusra and ISIL, he said. Officials say if the truce holds, it could be an initial step towards a conflict that has left more than 400,000 dead according to some reports and millions displaced. It could be a first step to the end of the civil war and the suffering of the Syrian people, said Defense Secretary Ash Carter. Pakistan has executed a man who killed a powerful governor who had opposed the countrys blasphemy laws. Mumtaz Qadri, a member of polices elite force, was part of the team guarding Punjabs governor Salman Taseer in January 2011 when Qadri shot Taseer nearly 30 times in broad daylight in Islamabad. Qadri was hanged in Adiala prison in Rawalpindi city early Monday after meeting with his family the night before. Protests broke out in several parts of the country, including Rawalpindi, as news of the execution spread. Security was extremely tight and extra contingents of police and the countrys paramilitary force were deployed to sensitive areas. All roads leading to the capital, Islamabad, were heavily guarded. Qadris crime shocked much of the world, not only because he was responsible for guarding the governor he killed, but also because many members of the countrys legal community celebrated his crime. Hundreds of lawyers showered him with rose petals and offered to fight his case for no fee. In October 2011, an anti-terrorism court gave him the death sentence, which was maintained by higher courts. Two weeks after the murder of Punjabs governor, Minority Affairs Minister Shehbaz Bhatti, another critic of the countrys blasphemy laws, was also gunned down. Human rights activists have long complained that the blasphemy law is misused to settle private scores. They say people accused of blasphemy often do not get a fair trial because lower court judges are afraid of ruling in their favor. Pakistan said Monday at the start of strategic talks with the United States that a contentious sale of F-16 fighter jets would strengthen the South Asian nation's ability to mount counterterrorist operations and promote regional stability. "The prospective sale of F-16s will strengthen Pakistan capabilities to successfully continue these vital operations for our mutual benefit and stability in the region," said Sartaj Aziz, Pakistani adviser on foreign affairs. Aziz met with U.S. Secretary of the State John Kerry at the State Department for the sixth Ministerial Level U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue. The U.S. government this month approved the sale of the aircraft, radar and electronic warfare equipment to Pakistan in a deal worth nearly $700 million. Neighboring India opposes the sale, which has drawn criticism from some U.S. lawmakers. Congress could block the deal, although such action is rare. Kerry last week told a House committee that Pakistan's existing fleet of F-16s has been critical for its counterterrorism fight on its western border with Afghanistan. Kerry did not mention the F-16 sale in his remarks Monday, but he commended Pakistan's counterterrorism operations, including in North Waziristan, a tribal area where militants have launched cross-border attacks into Afghanistan. Watch Kerry's comments on Pakistan "Cooperation along Pakistan's borders is absolutely essential, Kerry said after Monday's meeting with Aziz. We recognize the extraordinary and real sacrifices that Pakistan's military, especially in Operation Zarb-e-Azb and the ongoing missions in North Waziristan, and the United States has pledged $250 million to help rebuild the communities of persons who have been displaced by the fighting in these operations." Picking and choosing militants Pakistan has been accused of targeting some militant groups but nurturing or turning a blind eye to others. Kerry welcomed Pakistan's commitment to not differentiate among terrorist groups. He said groups like the Haqqani network and Lashkar-e-Taiba seek to undermine Pakistan's relations with its neighbors. Kerry also said they would also discuss Pakistan's "obligations of being a responsible state with nuclear weapons." Adam Ereli, a former U.S. ambassador to Bahrain, said Pakistan is a country of enormous geo-strategic consequences. "Given the fact that it is a nuclear power [with] an ongoing conflict with India, given its role in Afghanistan, given the fact that it's a Muslim nation of 150 to 160 million, with severe economic and political challenges ... the U.S. has a very, very strong interest in a stable and cooperative relationship with Pakistan," Ereli said. As the threat of Islamic extremism has grown in Pakistan, so has international concern about the security of the nation's nuclear arsenal. Experts say Pakistan's nuclear stockpile is growing fast, and it is developing tactical nuclear weapons to deter rival India's larger conventional forces. Kerry and Aziz also reviewed progress made by six working groups under the framework of the U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, including nonproliferation, education, defense consultation group, law enforcement and counterterrorism, economic and finance, as well as the energy working groups, according to spokesman John Kirby. The U.S. and Pakistan are among members of the so-called "Quadrilateral Coordination Group," which also includes China and Afghanistan, to support a peace process in Afghanistan. While voicing support for an Afghan-led and an Afghan-all peace talk, Aziz said: "In coming days and weeks, all members of the Quadrilateral process will intensify their efforts toward achieving a broader national consensus in support of peace and reconciliation in Afghanistan." In early 2002, Mourad Benchellali found himself locked in a cage at the U.S. military camp at Guantanamo Bay, responding to taunts and blows from his interrogators, as prisoner 161. I live in a world where there are 'them and us,' and I am with the Muslim dogs, the 'worst of the worst,'" Benchellali later writes in his book Journey to Hell, recounting his experience at the now-closed Camp X-Ray, used as the first detention facility at Guantanamo for suspected militants captured after the September 11, 2001 attacks on the United States. More than a decade later, a Paris appeals court has ordered the then-Guantanamo prison chief to appear as an assisted witness Tuesday (March 1), over allegations of illegal detention and torture involving Benchellali and another ex-detainee, Nizar Sassi. We think he should have been charged, but its a step at least to have him as assisted witness, said Benchellalis lawyer, William Bourdon, of retired U.S. general Geoffrey Miller, who ran Guantanamo between 2002 and 2004. Millers summons as an "assisted witness," refers to a French legal term that carries more weight than a simple witness, but does not imply formal charges. Both Bourdon and Benchellali doubt the retired general will show up Tuesday, much less ever face trial in France, but say the court order is a first victory. Its not just symbolic, Benchellali said. We may be able to enlarge the area of responsibility and summon other people. We hope the judges will be able to continue their investigations. The scheduled hearing comes a week after U.S. President Barack Obama urged lawmakers to approve a White House plan to close Guantanamo and make good on a promise he made as a candidate in 2008. For Benchellali, it helps advance a personal mission to clear his name, after spending two-and-a-half years at Guantanamo as an alleged "enemy combatant." Written after his release, the book traces Benchellalis journey from a gritty suburb of Lyon to Afghanistan, where his brother had promised him and Nizar Sassi a holiday. Instead, the two found themselves in an al-Qaida training camp. The book describes how the two eventually escaped, crossing into neighboring Pakistan. It was late 2001, and the United States was still reeling from the September 11 attacks. The pair were soon captured and turned over to American forces, who transferred them to Guantanamo. I cannot describe in just a few lines the suffering and the torture; but the worst aspect of being at the camp was the despair, the feeling that whatever you say, it will never make a difference, Benchellali wrote of his experience in a 2006 op-ed article for The New York Times. In 2004, he was transferred to France, where he spent two more years in prison before his release in 2006. A year later, a French appeals court overturned terrorist conspiracy convictions against Benchellali and four other former Guantanamo inmates. Both Benchellali and Sassi have been demanding for years that French courts launch legal proceedings against Miller. Last April, the Paris Court of Appeal demanded he appear for questioning. In the United States, Miller has also been summoned for questioning over prisoner abuse at Guantanamo, as well as the abuse of detainees at Abu Ghraib in Iraq, where he helped to establish the prisons interrogation system. The U.S. Defense Department did not immediately comment on the French court summons. Today, Benchellali criss-crosses France and other parts of Europe to tell his story and warn youngsters against radicalization. With hundreds of Europeans believed to be fighting in Iraq and Syria, he is in demand, although, he says, some French schools are still reluctant to invite him to speak. In November, he was blocked from entering Canada, where he says he had been invited to participate in several events. After detaining him for two days, Toronto border authorities sent him back to France. Benchellali, however, is undeterred. He toured Brittany recently with Amnesty International, and will be speaking this week to youngsters in Belgium. He also wants to return to Canada, where he says, there are things to do for youngsters there. He will be tracking the Paris proceedings closely. He has received messages of support from other ex-Guantanamo detainees. As for Miller, Benchellali still holds out hope for answers. I want him to explain why he gave orders to torture us, Benchellali said, "and how he can justify them. In Liberia, a demonstration is planned Monday to demand the release of human rights activist Vandalark Patricks who was arrested by the Liberian government last Wednesday and charged with sedition and criminal libel. Patricks was arrested after he read a communique on behalf of a consortium of political parties and civil society organizations on February 21 calling for a mass citizen action on March 11. He also accused the Liberian Government of hiring assassins to murder the former managing director of the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company, Harry Greaves, and eliminate other political opponents of the government. Mr. Greaves body was discovered January 31 this year on a beach near Monrovia. Mulbah Morlue, vice chairman for operations and mobilization for Liberias main opposition Congress for Democratic Change party (CDC), said Patricks must be released immediately. We believe Mr. Patricks arrest is a misplaced aggression of judicial authority because he was a representative of the different political groupings and civil society actors that came together to issue that statement. So, we hold that his arrest is arbitrary, his arrest is unwarranted. And so, we are staging a very pro-protest on the premises of the Temple of Justice to insist that government has no business for holding Mr. Patricks at the Monrovia Central Prison, he said. Patricks on hunger strike Morlue said Patricks has embarked on a hunger strike because prison authorities would not allow his family to bring food into the prison and he has refused eat the prison food because he does not trust it. Liberian government officials were not available for comment. Efforts to reach the police or the justice minister proved fruitless. Morlue dismissed the suggestion that Patricks was reckless in his comments. He said the consortium of political parties and civil society groups issued their statement because they had been concerned about the number of recent politically motivated" mysterious deaths which reminded the people of the dark days of the past. You remember there was a murder on the Congo Town back road of standard bearer of the Free Democratic Party, Mr. Ciapha Gbolee. No arrest was made. There was the murder of human rights activist and anti-corruption whistleblower, Michael Allison. No arrest was made. And now the latest is the murder of Harry Greaves. Mr. Patrick was simply reading a document that was making a documentary that was authorized by different political institutions, Morlue said. Morlue said it has been difficult to find an insurance company to guarantee Patricks $3,000 bond because the case was political in nature and no insurance company wanted to associate itself with it. Every insurance company we went to neglected granting a bail bond to Mr. Patricks because all of them expressed fear because they had been forewarned by state actors not to grant bail bond to Mr. Patricks, and that if they were to grant bail bond to Mr. Patricks, there would be repercussions coming from the authority of government, he said. He dismissed a suggestion that perhaps it was difficult to make bail because Patricks, as a young man, has not property to guarantee his bail and that he could also flee the country. Vandalark Patricks is not a politician or is not an activist on the run. There is no question whatsoever as for the integrity of this young man. This is the young man that has national credibility and respectability. Its not possible to perceive that he will flee when granted a bail bond, Morlue said. Late Sunday, a report in FrontPage Africa suggested that a bond had been found. The report said businessman and opposition political party leader, Benoni Urey had made the cash available to an insurance Company to secure the bond for Patricks temporary release as he prepares to face trial. But the same report said Patricks lawyer, Tiawon Gongloe could not confirm if bail had been posted. News / National by Stephen Jakes MTHWAKAZI REPUBLIC PARTY has accused the ruling Zanu PF for preferri9ng to create jobs for only its sympathisers and loyalists after President Robert Mugabe appointed the National Peace and Reconciliation Commission, and The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commissioner.Siyabonga Ndiweni MRP Youth Forum Secretary For Information and Publicity said recently formed is just another insult to the people of Mthwakazi."We view these as yet another useless venture by government to create jobs for their people and certify their faction riddled Zanu pf party," he said. "The members for Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission are as follows; Job Wabira chair, Nannettee Silukhuni,Goodson Nguni, Christine Fundira, Danford Chirindo, Cathy Muchechetere, Farai Mashonganyika, and Boyana Ndou, and The members for National Peace and Reconciliation Commission are as follows, Cyril Ndebele former speaker as chairman while other members comprise of Lilian Chigwedere, Patience Chiradza, Choice Ndoro, Charles Masunungure, Geoffrey Chada, Godfrey Chekenyere and Leslie Ncube.How can the two commissions have only two Mthwakazi people each out of eight members?"He said MRP is not happy with the composition of the commission since we are aware that Shona speaking people are the worst people when it comes to corruption."What is the justification of their dominance in such sensitive commissions? This shows that they are there to defend their kith and kin and will never be committed in doing the right things or what is expected of them, despite the importance of what those commissions actually represents," he said. "The victims of Gukurahundi are not well represented in that commission and this is very similar to the economic genocide that is being implemented by this monster government through the fulfillment of the satanic 1979 Grand Plan document."Ndiweni said this is a miscalculated move to cover-up for the unforgettable Gukurahundi atrocities since more and more evidence is surfacing."Mind you this so called National Peace and Reconciliation Commission only have a 10 year life span in the New Constitution that means only seven years are left before it expires and we wonder what will they gain out of these Commissions," said Ndiweni. "We suspect that the government is on a Mission to destroy Gukurahundi evidance already but it will not work we are watching you. People in Mthwakazi are not being employed in their own motherland due to the issue of continued sprouting of shona speaking civil servants mainly teachers, policemen, Zimra officers, death and birth registration offices as well as passport offices. These people come to destroy our culture and frustrate us."He said they also see the sprouting of Harare churches in our own motherland and this is neo-colonization using the gospel, fewer people from Matebeleland are being recruited in tertiary institutions."All these point to the fact that this so called commissions will not address the problems affecting Mthwakazi and they are just toothless commissions like all the other failed commissions. It will also fail like the organ of National Healing ministry during the period of GNU which never produced any meaningful results, serve for the arrests that used to be effected on the former minister Moses Mzila Ndlovu who understood his role as the minister of that organ," he said. "Sekai Holland of MDC-T and the late John Landa Nkomo of zanu pf never did Mthwakazi proud on that issue but they actually did the opposite. Therefore we are convinced that these commissioners will also serve their master and sing for their super. National Peace and Reconciliation Commission is a Miscalculated Cover-up."He said if this so called Zimbabwe Anti Corruption Commission is genuine it must start with Zimra and ZRP."Sikhathele koMthwakazi ngabantu laba," he said. On the Greek side of the border with Macedonia on Monday, refugees and other migrants tried to break through a border fence as anger boiled over at barriers impeding their access. Police in Macedonia fired tear gas hoping to keep the throngs of people out of the country. As the unrest among refugees fleeing the Middle East spreads along European borders, a shaky cease-fire that began on Saturday has reduced the level of violence in Syria; but, until major power players in the region figure out how to overcome mutually exclusive positions, battles will continue to flare and the refugee crisis will continue to deepen, according to analysts. And with the approach of spring weather, the crisis will worsen, according to Yan St. Pierre of Berlin-based security group, Mosecon. That is everybodys fear, he said, adding, that once the weather becomes milder, that there will be a much larger influx of refugees and certainly more attempts to cross over into Europe. All sides have accused their enemies of violating the terms of the cease-fire, but the United Nations says the relative calm may allow them to deliver emergency aid to 150,000 people this week. French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault warned on Monday that reports of continued airstrikes could threaten the cease-fire. France has therefore demanded that the task force charged with overseeing the cessation of hostilities meet without delay," he said. End in sight? Actually ending the war will require rival powers, including Saudi Arabia and Iran and their respective allies, to negotiate deals on issues on which they take opposing, hard-line views, according to Khaled Almaeena, a veteran Saudi journalist and former editor-in-chief of Saudi Gazette. For example, he said, Saudi Arabia will accept no future for Syria that includes President Bashar al-Assad, a staunch Iran ally who has vowed to retake all of Syria. I think we are politically mature enough that there has to be a transition period, he added. If Assad goes, then who will fill in the vacuum? He said negotiating peace in Syria is a seemingly impossible task that cannot be completed quickly. The current cease-fire may contribute to the peace process, according to St. Pierre, but it also may give some groups of fighters the chance to regroup and prepare for long-term battle. Additionally, militant groups like Islamic State and al-Nusra Front are not part of the peace talks or the cease-fire and vow to continue the violence, despite any international agreements. Continued U.S. coalition and Russian attacks on Islamic State militants are contributing to the refugee crisis, as families flee U.S.-led coalition and Russian airstrikes in addition to the ground war, said St. Pierre. The more they keep bombing, he said, the more refugees they produce. South Korean factories that were forced to halt operations in North Koreas Kaesong Industrial Complex are asking the Seoul government to compensate them for their losses. The South Korean government suspended all activities at the industrial zone it operated jointly with North Korea, to punish the Kim Jong Un government for its recent nuclear test and latest long-range rocket launch. The Corporate Association of Kaesong Industrial Complex represents the 123 small and medium South Korean manufacturing companies that operate there and were forced to close. Estimated losses The organization estimates its initial losses of assets and raw material to near $644 million (820 billion won). When announcing the closure of the Kaesong complex, South Korean President Park Geun-hye said the government would offer aid and support to the affected companies. By utilizing insurance from inter-Korean cooperative funds, the government will quickly offer up to 90 percent of [the] investment cost for the Kaesong Industrial Complex, Park said. The Kaesong association, however, said the insurance will only cover $220 million (280 billion won) of their losses. The group has been in talks with the South Korean government to determine fair compensation, but so far the two sides remain far apart. The government did not say we are exaggerating the amount, but they said it has not been objectively proven, said Jeong Gi-seob, chairman of the Corporate Association of Kaesong Industrial Complex. South Koreas Unification Ministry Monday issued a statement defending the shutdown of the complex and said it is offering a range of tax deductions, loans and other support to affected business The government has been conducting one-on-one site visits for each company and preparing measures tailored for companies by listening to their requests, the Unification Ministry said in its statement. Fall into disrepair The closure of the faculty put 54,000 North Korean employees out of work and cut off the flow of about $100 million a year into North Korea. South Korean officials said 70 percent of Kaesong funding, paid in U.S. dollars, was used to finance the Norths illicit nuclear weapons program. After the closure of the facility was announced, Pyongyang imposed military control of the site, froze all assets of the Kaesong companies, and deported the remaining South Korean managers and staff still there. The Kaesong association criticized the sudden closure it said violated a 2013 joint agreement to maintain a stable operation, unimpeded by political disagreements or provocations. Seoul, however, said the existential threat to national security and public safety posed by Pyongyangs defiant pursuit of nuclear weapons justified the harsh and sudden response. South Korea cut electrical power and water to the Kaesong complex, making it very difficult for North Korea to utilize the facilities. If the complex remains unused for six months, some operators say, rust will set in and the equipment will fall into permanent disrepair. Permanent closure? The Kaesong corporate association is asking for the complex to be re-opened, but that seems highly unlikely given the increasing diplomatic and military tensions in the region. Since 2006 the U.N. Security Council has imposed increasingly severe sanctions on North Korea for developing nuclear weapons and ballistic missile technology. This week, the U.S. is expected to approve the strongest set of sanctions yet against the Pyongyang government, intended to cut off the trade and funding of North Koreas nuclear program and its military, and to target the North Korean leadership and officials directly involved in these illicit activities. The Kaesong complex was once part of a range of assistance projects meant to build trust between the North and South. But support in the South for unqualified engagement faded as Pyongyang continued its defiant pursuit of nuclear weapons and continued to initiate provocations. Other South Korean aid programs were halted and sanctions imposed against North Korea in 2010 after Seoul accused Pyongyang of sinking a South Korean warship and killing 46 sailors. Somali authorities arrested six people in connection with Sunday's double bomb attack by al-Shabab in the town of Baidoa that killed at least 32 people and wounded more than 60 others. We have arrested six people suspected to be the organizers and the masterminds of the explosion, and they will be brought before justice," said Abdullahi Ali Watiin, the district commissioner of Baidoa. Police and the local government said the center of the town, located 245 kilometers west of Mogadishu, was very busy when a car bomb exploded near the main market. A second blast, believed to be from a suicide bomber, went off moments later at a restaurant. Meanwhile, Somali Cabinet ministers held an extraordinary security meeting late Sunday in Mogadishu to discuss recent al-Shabab attacks. Security Minister Abdirisaq Omar Mohamed spoke to VOA Somali about the effort to defeat the militant group. We know, only military force cannot defeat al-Shabab. We need to launch an ideological war against them so that we can at least convince the young Somalis they brainwashed to refrain from the violence, and of course political solution for those who want to take the peaceful way is a vital," Mohamed said. Al-Shabab had time to plan Former Somali Intelligence Chief Ahmed Fiqi said the Islamist militant group was given a chance to plan and carry out their attacks because no major military operation against the group's hideouts has been launched in the past two years. The last two years, no major attack to pursue the militants were taken," Fiqi told VOA. "So that gave them a chance to think and plan their attacks accordingly, whether it is guerilla and hit-and-run attacks on the AU bases or suicide attacks on civilian targets. He said the African Union peacekeeping mission in Somalia lacks central command and pursues different agendas. "To my knowledge, the troops involving into the mission take the final orders from their individual countries, not a central command run by the mission commanders. We also know that each troop-contributing country focuses on [its] interests rather than the return of peace in Somalia. So, how can they succeed their mission?" he asked. Consecutive attacks Sunday's attacks in Baidoa came two days after two massive explosions killed 25 people and wounded nearly 60 others in Mogadishu. Al-Shabab claimed responsibility for those bombings as well. The militant group, which has links to al-Qaida, carries out frequent attacks in Somalia, often targeting government officials and African Union troops. Al-Shabab controlled most of southern Somalia as recently as 2010, but has been pushed into the countryside by AU and Somali government forces. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said Monday that despite "some incidents" the cessation of hostilities in Syria is largely holding on its third day. Ban said several reported violations of the agreement are troubling; however, he noted that a multinational task force monitoring the truce is working to make sure violations do not spread and the halt in fighting can continue. He stressed that the break in fighting continue. We can continue to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance to many people, at least 400,000 people who are living in besieged areas. ... So, it is absolutely important and crucial that the parties keep their promise. That is a very important one. Attack allegations French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault called for a meeting of the task force "without delay" to discuss reported air attacks on rebel-held areas. U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter said "if properly adhered to," the cessation can lead to an overall decline in violence. "It could be the first step towards a political solution that would end the civil war and the suffering of the Syrian people," he added. The cease-fire began Saturday. There was a noticeable uptick in violation claims on Monday with Syrian rebels alleging the Assad regime attacked towns and villages they hold 26 times. Seven of the breeches they claimed consisted of barrel bombing by low-flying regime helicopters. Targeting 'populated areas' The regime has continued to target populated areas using helicopter raids using explosive barrels, resulting in a large number of fatalities and causing significant injuries, most of whom were innocent women and children, Riad Hijab, the rebels chief negotiator, complained in a formal letter to the United Nations. Rebels claim there have been 24 recorded breaches involving regime artillery shelling and five incidents of offensive ground operations. Hostilities committed by Russian, Iranian, the Syrian regime, and foreign militias and mercenaries allied to them have continued against the Syrian people despite the truce taking effect on 27 February 2016, Hijabs said. He added: Right from the onset of the truce, a large number of violations have been committed by the regime and its allies in several parts of Syria. Hijab said on Sunday Russian fighter jets launched twenty-six air strikes against territory held by opposition groups which have announced and entered into the truce. Disturbingly significant is the fact that cluster bombs as well as Thermobaric weapons have been used, he wrote. Map of opposition groups Rebels say a map issued publicly at the start of the truce by the Russian Ministry of Defense detailing the positions of moderate opposition groups is full of errors. They are urging the U.N. to draw up a separate map. Russian monitors Sunday said they have recorded nine violations of the truce, attributing most to the rebels. Meanwhile, the U.N. planned to begin aid deliveries Monday in hopes of reaching more than 150,000 Syrians in besieged areas. Many of these people have been without any aid for up to a year, the U.N. said. The U.N.'s humanitarian coordinator for Syria, Yacoub El Hillo, said the shipments are scheduled for multiple areas across Syria between Monday and Friday. "It is the best opportunity that the Syrian people have had over the last five years for lasting peace and stability," he said. The U.N. plans to provide those trapped by fighting with food, water and sanitation supplies, medicine and other relief items. Ban said the U.N. needs about two weeks to deliver the humanitarian deliveries. UN endorsement Less than an hour before the temporary truce went into effect, members of the U.N. Security Council unanimously endorsed the deal. At the same meeting, the U.N. envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura announced that if the truce largely holds and humanitarian aid access continues he will reconvene intra-Syrian peace talks in Geneva on March 7. The co-chairs of the International Support Group for Syria (ISSG), Russia and the United States, will be responsible for addressing violations, not the United Nations. President Barack Obama said the United States will do everything it can to make the agreement hold. The U.S. presidential candidates are using Monday to make a last push for support before voters in 11 states have their say in who should be the nominees for the Democratic and Republican parties. Republicans are focusing on the South, which accounts for two-thirds of the delegates that will be awarded on what is called Super Tuesday. Businessman Donald Trump, the front-runner in the Republican race, is holding events in Virginia and Georgia, while Florida Senator Marco Rubio is campaigning in Arkansas. Texas Senator Ted Cruz is focusing his efforts on his home state, which offers 155 of the roughly 600 delegates at stake for Republicans Tuesday. Trump and Rubio continued their attacks against each other on Sunday. WATCH: Republican candidates Trump, Cruz in Texas showdown Rubio called the billionaire a "con artist" and joked about his tan complexion, saying Trump will "make America orange." He also told supporters Republicans cannot nominate someone "who refuses to condemn white supremacists." Trump declined in a television interview early Sunday to denounce an endorsement by white supremacist David Duke, but later said on Twitter he disavows it. He also responded to criticisms about retweeting a quote from World War Two-era Italian dictator Benito Mussolini, saying he thought it was a "very interesting" remark. Trump used the online platform to attack Rubio's work in the Senate, and repeatedly derided him as "Little Marco Rubio." Meanwhile, Cruz asserted that Trump would likely lose in a general election match-up with Democrat Hillary Clinton, and said Trump "doesn't even know what he'd do" as president should he win the race to the White House. But Cruz acknowledged in an interview with CBS' Face the Nation that "there is no doubt that if Donald steamrolls through Super Tuesday, wins everywhere with big margins, that he may well be unstoppable" to win the Republican nomination. Trump has already won three of the first four states to hold Republican nominating contests. Clinton, the former secretary of state, has a chance to significantly add to her already big lead over Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders in the Democratic race. Both will hold events Monday in the northeastern state of Massachusetts, with Clinton then going to Virginia and Sanders traveling to the northern state of Minnesota. Clinton is favored in most of the states voting Tuesday, but the Sanders campaign said it has a good shot at winning five of the states, especially ones outside of the southern states where black voters favoring Clinton comprise a large part of the Democratic electorate. Sanders is expected to win in his home state of Vermont, where few delegates are at stake, and also contend in neighboring Massachusetts, the western state of Colorado and Minnesota. WATCH: In Democratic races, Clinton is favored Tuesday, but Sanders to attract youth vote Iraq's Mosul Dam risks "catastrophic failure" and a massive wall of water that would sweep downstream anything in its path, including bodies, buildings, cars, unexploded ordnances and hazardous chemicals, the U.S. is warning. The dam, located on the Tigris River just north of Mosul, is the largest in the country. Built in 1984, the dam is structurally flawed and has required constant maintenance and shoring up with cement grout. At full capacity, the dam can hold 11 cubic kilometers of water. If it were to burst at that level, a huge wave would roll down the river, potentially killing hundreds of thousands of people who are not able to move out of the way in time. "The approximately 500,000 to 1.47 million Iraqis residing along the Tigris River in areas at highest risk from the projected floodway probably would not survive its impact," according to a statement released by the U.S. embassy in Baghdad. Flood would reach Baghdad, devastate infrastructure Flood waters could reach depths greater than 15 meters in some parts of Mosul city in as little as one to four hours, giving residents little time to flee. In three to four days, the water would reach Baghdad, swelling the river that dissects the city by some 10 meters, and likely forcing the closure of the capital's international airport. The 500-kilometer flood path would also damage or destroy large sections of infrastructure, and knock power plants offline, causing the entire Iraqi electricity grid to shut down. Farmland would also be severely damaged. Mosul and the area down river are largely controlled by Islamic State militants, which could complicate any international relief effort, the U.S. embassy said. After months of downplaying the seriousness of the risk, the Iraqi government recently acknowledged the need to strengthen the dam and contracted the Italian engineering firm Trevi to repair and maintain the structure. NGOs and humanitarian agencies have already started work on contingency plans in case the dam bursts. But it is unclear what would happen to the hundreds of thousands of vulnerable people already displaced by violence in Iraq. Although it said had no specific information as to when the dam would collapse, the U.S. embassy said an early warning system and clear evacuation procedures could reduce the loss of life. The U.S. embassy public warning comes after weeks of private notices calling on the international community and the government in Iraq to be prepared for such a disaster. The 60-year-old Syrian woman with gray hair and dark animated eyes sitting opposite cries. I am surprised we have not used up all our tears, she says. Her tears are shed for her now-abandoned house in Damascus, for the remembrances of things past, illustrated by the many photographs of family and friends, musical gatherings and dinners she swipes through on her cell phone. She talks of the dispersal of her family - a grandson and two daughters in Germany, another daughter in Switzerland, an economist husband in Doha. She recalls the farewell party she helped throw in December for Syrian journalist and filmmaker Naji Jerf the night before he was due to fly with his family to Paris, where they were going to apply for asylum. He never made the flight - Islamic State militants shot him dead the next morning, punishment for documenting the atrocities of the terror group in northern Syria. And then, as she prepares a simple evening meal in her small, sparsely furnished apartment in the southern Turkish town of Gaziantep, Raja Banout sings, doing what she is teaching other Syrian refugee women to do; to overcome pain and disorientation with song, to strengthen the soul with music. Banout is the moving spirit of an all-female choir called Haneen (nostalgia) that includes women from all over Syria Damascus, Aleppo, Homs, Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor who are now refugees in Gaziantep and who sing traditional folk songs in the many different languages of their shattered home country Arabic, Kurdish, Turkmen, Syriac, Armenian, Circassian and Assyrian. They celebrate the diversity of Syria, hoping music will overcome the topography of division. We decided to face war, pain and the suffering of Diaspora with intellectual and cultural empowerment, says Banout. I told women we should sing. And they said, You are crazy, we are at war. And I said that is exactly why we should sing, recalls Banout. In some ways Banout is recreating the life she had in Damascus before the five-year-long civil war broke out. She founded a cultural association in the Syrian capital, promoted the arts and organized concerts as well as a choir for seniors. The family left soon into the conflict. We demonstrated against Assad and I was worried for the girls. Some of their friends were detained and I wont tell you how they were abused, she says. Banout and her husband left behind a thriving business, heading first to the Emirates and then Qatar. We lost everything, millions of dollars. But we are the lucky ones; we are educated and could adapt and still have a good life. But she felt she had to do more and within months moved alone to Gaziantep, telling her husband her real work was there among Syrian women. For women there are problems with all of lifes details. From finding accommodation to finding work. Then there are huge obstacles because of documentation. As refugees here women cant marry legally and they cant register babies. Most children arent being educated. Everything is a struggle, she says. 'They have given up' Most refugee families are headed by women. Their husbands are dead, fighting in Syria, or heading to Europe to clear a way for spouses and children to follow. And those who have husbands still with them often find their men are of little use. The poorly educated ones seem unable to adapt. I see their eyes, Banout says of the men. They are defeated - useless because they no longer can protect their families. They have given up. But the biggest problem for women is an emotional one, she says. They miss their homes; they too like the men feel they have lost everything. They need to go back to Syria - even those in Europe want to go back. Hence naming the choir Haneen, which also has the meaning of yearning. Banout is urging the women to use the pain of loss as a strength, a goad. Most of the time when we are singing, we are crying, but it is cathartic. The tears are for weekly informal get-togethers in Banouts apartment and not for when they are performing publicly. Then they take on the role almost of a chorus in classical Greek drama for the wider refugee community, describing and commenting upon the life and history of Syrians by singing the traditional heritage of a country smashed to smithereens, possibly beyond repair. On a cold night in Gaziantep, the women gather in Banouts apartment - 15 of them on this occasion. They range in age from a 15-year-old girl from a Damascus suburb to women in their sixties. They are loud and boisterous and the small room is full of laughter. They eat and share the latest news, and as they do so someone strikes up a song with others joining in. Every now and then women will start dancing. The singing and dancing will be interrupted by more laughter, story-telling and the latest gossip. United by music They are forging themselves into a sisterhood, despite the fact they come from very different walks of life. They are united not just by music and nationality. Many in the room have been detainees; some before the war or during by Assads intelligence services, others by the jihadists. Some have suffered beatings and abuse. The first time the choir came together, we sang for an hour. It was sad but beautiful. And afterwards I felt energized, says Hala Al Naser, a dark-haired woman in her forties. Another woman, Lewaa Ashqar, who spent a year detained in Assads prisons, explained the importance of the group: We didnt know what is coming and we couldnt plan for the future, we just sat and waited for years and this allows us to grab some control. The choir is just part of the process of empowerment Banout is trying to foster. Along with the singing, private and public, she and her Haneen colleagues also organize workshops on politics and women's rights. She has an immediate target. Working with some of the poorest refugee families in Gaziantep, Banout is trying to to dissuade hard-pressed families from agreeing to marry off teenage daughters to much older Turkish or Gulf Arab men. Today I met two girls - both 15 - who have married twice already. One has a baby daughter. Their husbands stayed with them for a few weeks and then just left them. As they were not married legally in Turkey, they have no rights, no recourse, she says. But a lot of the workshops focus on a future Syria. Time cant be regained, but she retains hope that out of the wreck of now, a better Syria can be shaped. My Marshall Plan is simple, she says. To fashion a group of 1,400 determined women - 100 for each of Syrias provinces - so that when this war is over, they will change Syria. International Monetary Fund resident representative in Zimbabwe, Christian Beddies, says resumption of direct financial aid to Harare might be a long process and the answer might come in May after the conclusion of an assessment report on Zimbabwe. Asked in an exclusive interview with VOA Studio 7 for Zimbabwe if the IMF was ready to give Harare fresh funding, Beddies said, Look, we are not there yet, this is a very long process, you may know that as part of our annual meetings last year, together with the World Bank, the authorities (Harare) had an opportunity to present a strategy on how to clear the arrears to the international institutions. The arrears are preventing the IMF from extending new loans to Harare. Finance Minister Patrick Chinamasa proposed a plan in Lima, Peru, that he claimed will see Harare clearing its arrears of US$1,86 billon to international creditors, including the Bretton Woods institutions by April. Late last year, the IMF said it might resume financial support to Zimbabwe as early as 2016 if foreign creditors accepted Harare's arrears clearance plan and the government implemented economic reforms to boost growth. But many economists doubt Harare can meet the ambitious target. Beddies concurred. I think April was always a very ambitious sort of target and I think even after that you know, they were even more cautious in terms of the exact time when that was going to happen. I do not want to preempt some of the conclusion of our discussions now. But I think April would be too ambitious. An IMF team is currently in Zimbabwe for two weeks to assess the final phase of the Staff Monitored Program and do the annual Article IV consultation. The IMF delegation is meeting government and business leaders. The IMF team is on Tuesday expected to meet with the representatives of the Zimbabwe National Chamber of Commerce. Harare started the SMP - an informal agreement with the IMF to monitor implementation of its economic reforms - in December 2013, and claims that it has met its targets and is seeking a financial aid package. Zimbabwe has suffered from a roll-back of investment from the West for the past 16 years. Without any balance of payment support and starved of foreign credit, Zimbabwes economy is headed south punctuated by deflation and 90 percent unemployment. The countrys debt arrears to the three multilaterals, the International Monetary Fund, World Bank and African Development Bank, currently stands at $1,8 billion. As at the end of June 2015, Zimbabwes public and publicly guaranteed debt stood at $8,4 billion. This comprises an external debt of $6,7 billion, representing about 47 percent of Gross Domestic Product, and domestic debt of $1,7 billion. Zimbabwe owes bilateral creditors $3,5 billion including arrears, Paris Club $2,8 billion, non-Paris Club $709 million, multilateral creditors $2,57 billion while the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe owes external creditors $587 million. Thousands of hungry villagers on Saturday walked up to 20 kilometers to attend President Robert Mugabes lavish birthday party at the Great Zimbabwe Monuments in Masvingo province, not because they wanted to honor the nonagenarian leader but to get a decent meal in the drought-ravaged region. Some claim that the president did not say how his government is tackling the drought. Most of the people, who spoke to Studio 7 while attending the birthday bash, said they wanted to at least eat a decent meal on Saturday as they are in most cases failing to have a single meal per day. Some ended up stashing the food in plastic bags in order to take it back home for their hungry children, who could not walk all the way to Great Zimbabwe. According to the state-controlled media, the ruling Zanu PF party slaughtered 53 beasts and sourced about 300 kilograms of processed beef and hundreds of kilograms of game meat for 50,000 guests. To cream it all, there were also lots of desserts and other goodies supplied by the First Familys Alpha and Omega Dairy. This is what forced Tonderayi Mutema of Murinye communal lands to walk for about 20 kilometers to Great Zimbabwe. Mutema said he brought his family with him to the birthday bash. The party was okay we came from long distances but not to celebrate the birthday as much but to eat. We feel today is the chance for us to have a proper meal since we had not been able to get it for a long time due to hunger. Some villagers had to stampede for left overs, which they took home saying they would find ways of preserving the food so that they can depend on it in the next few days. One of the villagers, who declined to be named in fear of being victimized, said it was unlikely that people were going to stay away from such a lavish birthday as they do not know where the next meal will come from. Today we have come to eat so much, we are suffering in Zimbabwe we want to eat today, this is the only opportunity so they have to give us more food to eat, we will not waste such an opportunity. Some people in Masvingo province are now surviving on wild fruits due to severe food shortages caused by the current drought. They were expecting Mr. Mugabe to address the hunger situation in the region. Tsisti Muduma of Mashete Village in Muchakata communal lands said she is disappointed that the president did not talk much about the hunger situation in Masvingo. The birthday bash was okay the food was okay but we came here to be addressed on the food shortages and drought but it wasnt fully addressed he just concentrated in political instability in his party. President Mugabe in his concluding remarks promised villagers that no one will die of hunger as his party and government were making efforts to feed everyone. I would want to end by saying it has been a bad year, the agricultural season has not gone well so we have to ask for help as we seek maize and other grains, so we will do our best, food will come but its not enough. I think its a case of transport. We dont want to hear of people dying the old and the disabled must be a priority. But villagers were not convinced about these remarks saying the president did not give specifics on how his government would provide food to the hungry. President Mugabe said Zanu PF youths should stop insulting his wife, Grace, who recently attacked Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa for allegedly attempting to topple her husband. Mr. Mugabe chided some members of his partys youth league and other youths calling themselves Save Zimbabwe Campaign for denigrating the name of the first lady. The youths were recently quoted as saying Mrs. Mugabe is promoting factionalism in the party as she has linked with a faction of the party calling itself generation 40, which reportedly wants her to succeed the 92 year-old president. The other faction, known as Team Lacoste, is allegedly led by Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa. Mr. Mugabe also attacked Zanu PF members for supporting various factions. Studio 7 reached Zanu PF central committee member, Joseph Tshuma, who said Zimbabweans are forgetting that the birthday bash, also known as the 21st February Movement, is a youth function and therefore what president Mugabe said was directed at the youth. Studio 7 also reached independent political analyst, Dinizulu Macaphulana, who pointed out that President Mugabes speech at his birthday bash showed a man who is more interested in his personal well-being than Zimbabweans. HEADLINES FOR MONDAY, FEBRUARY 29TH, 2016 President Mugabe says Zanu PF youths should stop insulting his wife, who recently attacked Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa for allegedly attempting to topple her husband. Some villagers, who attended President Mugabes lavish birthday party in Masvingo on Saturday, say the president failed to indicate how his government will address hunger in the region and other parts of the country hit by a crippling drought. Zimbabwe National Students Union blasts university authorities for funding President Mugabes $800,000 birthday party held in Masvingo. We speak to the head of the International Monetary Fund in Zimbabwe where an IMF delegation is visiting the country as part of a Staff Monitored Program. What is it like to have a real birthday once every four years? Some people are happy today that they are celebrating such birthdays. We will give you details on this issue. Stay tuned for these stories and more coming up on Studio 7 at 7:30 pm on 9-0-9 Medium Wave and on the 4-9-3-0, 5-9-4-0 and 1-5-4-6-0 shortwave frequencies. We also broadcast on www.channelzim.net. Please check us out on Facebook, WhatsApp and Twitter. Today on LiveTalk our hosts Gibbs Dube and Blessing Zulu will be talking with listeners and experts about President Mugabes remarks that Zanu PF youths should stop attacking his wife, Grace. We will also focus on hunger crippling Masvingo, which hosted Mr. Mugabes birthday party, and other parts of the country. Send us your numbers on our WhatsApp number 001 202 465 0318. The number again 001 202 465 0318. Stay tuned!!!!!! News / National by Staff reporter FORMER Vice-President and Zimbabwe People First (ZPF) party leader Joice Mujuru staged a "palace coup" over the weekend when she hosted over 100 disgruntled war veterans, among them ex-top government officials, NewsDay reported.The ex-bureaucrats allegedly pledged to join her after they apologised profusely for propping up Zanu-PF misrule through violent campaigns since 1985.The disgruntled ex-combatants, drawn mostly from Zanla and Zipra general staff, reportedly met Mujuru at a lodge outside Harare on Saturday, while 295km south of the capital, President Robert Mugabe was blasting the former fighters for disrespecting his wife, First Lady Grace Mugabe.Joice Mujuru and disgruntled war vets Zimbabwe People First leader Joice Mujuru (circled in red) and the disgruntled war veterans after their meeting at the weekend [/Caption]Mujuru is set to address her first Press conference as opposition leader this week in the capital as she finalises preparations for her party launch.ZPF spokesperson Rugare Gumbo confirmed Mujuru's Saturday indaba with the war veterans, who included former Zanu-PF Manicaland chairman Ambassador John Shumba Mvundura and Ambassador Agrippa Mutambara, among others."Yes, the war vets met Amai Mujuru and they apologised," Gumbo said.He dismissed as "wishful thinking" the weekend claims by Mugabe that Mujuru's party would disintegrate before the 2018 general elections."That is wishful thinking. Wishful thinking indeed, unless he knows something, but otherwise, that is all he is wishing for," Gumbo said.Mugabe, while addressing party supporters who gathered to celebrate his 92nd birthday bash in Masvingo, on Saturday said: "Those who came from us tried to take our name and said we are People First. You will hear People First, People Second, People Third, and People Fourth. Zanu-PF will remain Zanu-PF, very strong, no change."The Mujuru-war veterans meeting comes as relations between Zanu-PF's top leadership and ex-combatants have taken a nosedive after police, two weeks ago, violently crushed a meeting organised by War Veterans minister Christopher Mutsvangwa to discuss their welfare.The attack came after Grace, at her campaign rally in Chiweshe, chastised Mutsvangwa and Vice-President Emmerson Mnangagwa for allegedly plotting Mugabe's downfall.Ironically, Mutsvangwa, whose political career had seemed to hang in the balance in the past few days, was among frontrunners who led the anti-Mujuru campaign ahead of the ruling party's December 2014 elective congress, which led to her ouster from both Zanu-PF and government.The smear campaign was later hijacked by Grace, who publicly accused Mujuru of practising witchcraft and plotting to unconstitutionally succeed Mugabe.A Mujuru source who attended the weekend meeting said the freedom fighters also apologised for participating in State-sponsored sting operations and smear campaigns, which triggered her ouster from the governing party and government.A war veteran identified as Nicholas Kativhu allegedly bemoaned the "dirty roles" played by freedom fighters in fighting Mujuru and opposition MDC-T activists.Kativhu admitted that some war veterans were now being forced to discredit Mnangagwa as the race to succeed Mugabe reaches a crescendo.Another war veteran identified as Shephered Kapota implored liberation war fighters to shun violence and desist from being used as "dogs of war" to protect the Zanu-PF elite.In between their speeches, the war veterans burst into a popular liberation war song Nzira Dzemasoja, which calls for discipline among cadres.Mujuru told the war veterans that she did not begrudge them for decampaigning her, adding she had longed to meet them while she was still in Zanu-PF, but was blocked by her rivals who feared she could divide their loyalty to Mugabe.She also disclosed that contrary to reports that she was fired, she had actually resigned and bade Mugabe farewell in December 2014 before the Zanu-PF politburo resolved to fire her from the party in April 2015."I said to myself December 1, 2014 was the D-day," Mujuru reportedly told the war veterans."I then went to Mugabe's office and spoke to him. I told him that my hands and heart are clean. I have never planned to harm or kill anyone and I said to him that tomorrow (at the politburo meeting on December 02 2014), I won't be among you. I'm leaving Zanu-PF and I am happy to do that with my hands clean."She implored the war veterans to work peacefully in mobilising Zimbabweans from all walks of life to join her party. News / National by Staff reporter DISGRUNTLED former Zimbabwe People's Revolutionary Army (Zipra) combatants, who recently broke ranks with the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans' Association (ZNLWVA), yesterday said their new welfare organisation, to be launched next month, would also seek to re-write the country's distorted liberation war history.The Zipra ex-combatants severed ties with the Christopher Mutsvangwa-led ZNLWVA, claiming the latter had digressed from its official mandate and was now engrossed in Zanu PF factional wars.Zipra was the armed wing of Zapu, which fought alongside Zanu's Zanla forces to defeat the colonial regime, culminating in the country's Independence in 1980.Opposition Zapu spokesperson Iphithule Maphosa yesterday told Southern Eye that the proposed ex-Zipra combatants' welfare organisation would be an autonomous body, though aligned to his party."Zipra, as an armed wing of Zapu, had a history that is strictly peculiar to them, a history that has been trashed by the current regime that has on numerous occasions sought to 'Zanlanise' the liberation struggle," he said."The association's immediate task will be to rewrite the history of Zapu's military wing, its contribution to the liberation of Zimbabwe. The history of Zipra has been so much trivialised and that has to be corrected."Our history is so distorted that citizens know very little about Zipra and the contribution of its cadres in the liberation struggle. The veterans have numerous reasons for regrouping, chief among them the sidelining of former Zipra cadres in almost all influential positions of decision-making and power, be it in the army, police or the State's secret service, where appointment and promotion has often been done on partisan basis."Zapu has always been critical of the Zanu PF liberation war narrative and suspicious of government-backed attempts to come up with "patriotic" history.The late former Vice-President Joseph Msika also once questioned the way Zipra's history has been documented.He died in 2009 without leaving any written account despite promises to correct the distorted records.An organisation linked to Zapu, Mafela Trust, at one time tried to document Zipra's history but its efforts were also fruitless. Activity at the volcano has been increasing. During the past days, explosions have become frequent, with intervals of only few hours. The largest on Wednesday evening at 20:50 local time showered almost the cone with incandescent ejecta and produced ash plumes up to 1 km tall. Unconfirmed reports suggest that some of the eruptions also have produced small pyroclastic flows. ... We are wrong to analyse Russian politics from the Arab or Western point of view. Russia has its own view of jihadists, with whom it is familiar since 1978, when they came to lend a helping hand to the Afghan Pashtuns against the Communist government in Kabul. Vladimir Putin personally fought the jihadists from the Caucasus, in particular the Islamic Emirate of Itchkeria (the second Chechen war 1999-2000), and beat them. At the time, the Arabs claimed to support tbe Russian Muslims, although they did not understand what was happening there, while the West, after the collapse of the Soviet Union, applauded any group who attempted to pursue the movement of the dislocation of Russia. However, on the ground, there was no difference between yesterdays Emirate and todays Caliphate. The charia was still applied, and heads were chopped off in Grozny just as they are today in Rakka. Atrocities by the jihadists of the Caucasus. Here in Dagestan, 1999. Today, despite propaganda claiming that the war in Syria is a war against Islam, or that the Syrian Arab Republic is an Alawite (sic) dictatorship (re-sic) which massacres Sunnis, the facts remain the Syrian Arab Army currently fighting the jihadists is composed of 70 % Sunnis. In 2012, which is to say almost at the beginning of the war, at the moment when the United States DIA warned the White House against the force that was to become Daesh, Vladimir Putin declared that Syria had become a Russian interior question . Since then, he has been trying to create an international Coalition with the West against the jihadists. Russia remembers how the world changed in the 1930s. At that time, the King of England, Edward VIII, was a public supporter of Nazism. Montagu Norman, the governor of the Bank of England, financed Adolf Hitlers accession to power with the Crowns money [1]. The British thought that in this way, they were supporting a state capable of overthrowing the Soviet Union, which had eliminated Tsar Nicolas II, and was a threat to their capitalist interests. However, during the Second World War, they allied with Stalin and Mao against Hitler. In these archive documents, revealed by the Sun, the future King of England, Edward VIII, teaches the future Queen Elizabeth II then aged 6 to make the Nazi salute. Vladimir Putin hopes to be able to overturn todays alliances, as was the case in the period 1936-39. This is why, over the last few years, he has been working to treat the United States as partners , even while Washington was stabbing him in the back, organising demonstrations in Moscow against his governement (2011-12) and mounting a coup dEtat in Ukraine (2013-14). On the 10th February, Russian ambassador Vitali Tchourkine distributed to all the members of the Security Council an intelligence report concerning the activities of Turkey in support of the jihadists [2]. This two-page document presents ten indisputable facts. It attests to the fact that Turkey is a gangster-state which for many years has been deliberately violating a quantity of UN Resolutions. Each of these facts connects to networks and agents who once supported the Chechen jihadists. In those days, the Turkish state as such was not implicated, but the Welfare Party (Refah). Today, Refah has been disbanded and replaced by the AKP. Since the AKP is now in power, the Turkish state is now implicated [3]. Today, the resolute Russian bear is attempting to separate Turkey from NATO. The future of humanity depends on this operation. Either Turkey stays in the Atlantist Alliance, thus able to support the jihadists, not only in Syria, but also in Iraq and Libya, and, finally, all over the world. Or else NATO distances itself from Turkey, in which case the United States and Russia would effectively be allied to fight the jihadists efficiently, wherever they may be. It seems that on the 12th February, the Russians were able to separate the White House from the neo-conservatives and liberal hawks who support Turkey and the jihadists. Sergey Lavrov and John Kerry agreed to create two work groups, which they co-preside, which relegates the UNO to the role of simple clerk [4]. In other terms, Jeffrey Feltman, who has been using his functions as United Nations number 2 to sabotage all efforts for peace over the last three and a half years, has now been benched [5]. The result ? In only 10 days, Russia and the United States have been able to conclude the conditions for a cessation of hostilities which has been awaiting finalisation since 2012 [6]. President Putin decided to announce personally on TV the conclusion of the agreement with the United States for the cessation of hostilities. This cessation of hostilities was firmly rejected by the National Coalition for Syrian Revolutionary and Opposition Forces , whose President, the Turco-Syrian Khaled Khoja, commented in a letter to the Security Council - It is absolutely scandalous to conclude bilateral agreements with Russia on a "cessation of hostilities", when these agreements do not concern one of the main killers of civilians in Syria, the Russian Federation. It is high time for Russia to leave Syria and end the brutal war that it is waging against our fellow country-men [7]. This agreement is in reality a trap aimed at destroying the whole system created by the neo-conservatives and the liberal hawks. Already, during the Geneve 3 negotiations, Russia had patiently revealed the bad faith of the opposition supported by Saudi Arabia and Turkey. This opposition had already discredited itself without any help by its procrastination. The question is not so much the representativity of the opposition, but to show that it has no desire to improve the living conditions of the Syrian people, only to overthrow the Syrian Arab Republic. The comment quoted above is convincing enough, since, contrary to M. Khojas allegations, the cessation of hostilities does in fact concern Russia, but not the groups listed as terrorists by the United Nations. The cessation of hostilities is aimed at facing the armed groups with their responsibilities. All they had to do was sign up with Washington or Moscow to avoid being bombed by the Russians or the Syrians, but in this case, they would have been obliged to renounce their project for the overthrow of the Syrian Arab Republic, and join a political process in favour of a secular, democratic Syria, in other words, to abandon the dream of an Islamic state. Only 97 Katibas of the thousand in existence would have dared to engage in a process which makes them traitors to the Turkish cause, and marks them as the next victims of their jihadist ex-comrades. Moreover, the Western powers could not have dreamed of a better outcome. On the 15th December 2015, during a Senate hearing, General Didier Castres, responsible for French external operations assured that the total number of combatants susceptible of being moderates did not exceed 20,000 [8]. While in January 2016, a German intelligence report affirmed that the proportion of Syrian combatants participating in all the armed groups in Syria would not exceed 5 % [9]. This is exactly the result that Kerry and Lavrov were looking for when they spoke of a cessation of hostilities and not a cease-fire the second expression being the only one with legal consequences. This enables us to understand John Kerrys answer to the question posed by a senator during a parliamentary hearing concerning an eventual plan B for use, if necessary, as a get-out clause. If the cessation of hostilities fails to work, there could be no partition of Syria, simply because the plan for the cessation of hostilities will have shown that the choice is not between Damascus and the rebels , but between Damascus and the jihadists . For President el-Assads advisor, Kerrys plan B should be aimed at fighting the jihadists. By the same logic, the Luxembourg Minister for Foreign Affairs, Jean Asselborn, declared to Der Spiegel that NATO would not allow itself to get dragged into a war started by Turkey against Russia [10]. Article 5 of the NATO Alliance provides for the support of a member state only when it is directly attacked, not when it initiates a conflict [11]. Comments confirmed by Germany to the Daily Mail [12]. As from now, the White House is preparing to sacrifice Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who will probably be held responsible for everything that has gone wrong in the region. The Turkish President may be assassinated, like his predecessor Turgut Ozal, in 1993, or else be overthrown by those close to him. Failing that, the war will be displaced from Syria to Turkey, and Vladimir Putin will have won his bet to shift the front lines in such a way as to cause the Western powers to fight alongside him against the jihadists that they themselves created. What the United States and their global corporations call Free Trade Agreement (TTIP) has been compared to NATO by former US-vice president Biden. It is meant to subject Europe to American economic domination and their interests. This has an inner and an outer goal : For a long time, the Juncker clique in Brussels has been working on dismantling the nation states in Europe and on disempowering their parliaments in order to gain central power for the EU Commission. This is why the politburo in Brussels is negotiating in secret with only the US, excluding the nation states and even keeping things secret from them. This is in contradiction to the EU clause of subsidiarity and sovereignty. But centralisation is Junckers main programme as has been demonstrated in the financial crisis (from a competitive union to a union of liability and debt and from there to a financial union) and now in Poland in the EU intervention against the disempowerment of US agents in the Polish national broadcasting corporation. Brussels does not tolerate divergent opinions in governments or parliaments nor does it allow any restrictions of US influence in Europe on their part. Outwardly, TTIP is meant to start an economic war (just like NATO) of the US economy against Russia (sanctions, oil embargo, currency war). According to the Brzezinski doctrine, the US can only maintain their status as a superpower if they keep their grip on Europe while Europe can only be controlled if the central power Germany is kept under control. This is not only politically true (Atlanticists), but also economically (the majority of DAX companies is controlled by the US). The plan is now that by means of TTIP the whole region be welded into a common Euro-Atlantic economic region, directed against Russia. This seizure of power over Europe by means of economy politics and commercial law with the help of TTIP is accompanied with attacks on economic strongholds, mainly in Germany, which are not yet controlled by the US. The main target is currently Volkswagen. Twice General Motors has attempted to take over the fat VW by means of unlimited Fed credits. The first time they were beaten by the Porsche family, the second time their lawsuit against Lower Saxony Law at VW (stipulating a vetoing power) was rejected. Now they are trying to bleed VW for a third time, through US lawyers and administrations commissioned by them. The goal is to weaken VW, to make it cheap, in order to be able to take it over for a lower price. Were VW to try a reciprocal coup in the US, the US government would immediately intervene and declare the transaction a violation of national security. The real current VW scandal is that the German government is not backing VW, that it is obviously more loyal to the US power than to the over a hundred thousand VW employees. If we allow the Americans to destroy VW in favour of the two American competitors Ford and Opel (General Motors), Germany will lose one of its economic beacons, not only on the national but also on the international level. This illustrates what the US will undertake also against the others of our corporations and know-how monopolists, with the help of US law installed in Germany through TTIP. And thus it is not surprising that a government that keeps silent about the destruction of VW also tolerates and even supports the seizure of power of the German economy by US corporations. A destruction campaign like the one the US has launched against VW would be inconceivable conversely for Germans in America and it would not be tolerated by any US government or any Congress. This demonstrates again the worth of a contract between a powerful (the US) and a powerless partner (EU) if it is negotiated between a global power on the one side and its puppet officials on the other (EU Commission) and if the officials of the employers association pursue their corporations interests, against the majority of their medium- sized member companies. The importance of the US economic seizure of power over Europe for the US president is demonstrated by Obamas plan to visit the Hanover Fair in order to align politics and economy in favour of TTIP. Photo: Kevin Winter/Getty Images When Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu won his Oscar last night for directing The Revenant, he used the latter portion of his speech to discuss awards-season diversity. It was the Mexican helmers second consecutive win in the category, a feat that came amid crescendoing #OscarsSoWhite fallout. Im very lucky to be here tonight, okay? But unfortunately, many others havent had the same luck, he said. What a great opportunity to our generation to really liberate ourselves from all prejudice, and this tribal thinking, and make sure for once and forever that the color of our skin becomes as irrelevant as the length of our hair. Though Inarritu acknowledged the Academys much-discussed inclusion problem, he also seemed to be calling for a more color-blind mentality and meritocracy. His comments felt both genuine and timely, but they were drowned out and truncated by the shows wrap-up music: He was able to elaborate backstage, underlining for reporters that he believes the #OscarsSoWhite debate is not just black and white: The debate is not only about black and white people you know, whats that mean? That now is #OscarSoBrown, or what? We are yellow and Native Americans and Latin Americans. So the complexity of the society of the world is much more than one or the other. Its becoming a little bit very polarized, very politicized, without observing the complexity and the beautiful [sic] of how this countrys being so mixed, as my country which is mixed, but this is a multi-mixed country. That is the real power of it. So anyway, what I am super impressed about is that still we are dragging this tribal thinking with this. I think one of the problems that we are suffering is there is no moderate platforms to talk about something deeply, very important, that in a way its deciding the destinies of people around the world not only here by the color of their skin. So that we are still dragging those prejudices and tribal thinking at this time? It seems to me absolutely absurd. In the 50s, I remember that the people that have long hair, the Beatles were considered like, Oh, my God, I will never. You know, and that was so stupid that now we laugh about it. Why we cannot get rid of those prejudices about the color of the skin is completely irrelevant. Leonardo DiCaprio, fresh off his long-awaited Best Actor triumph, joined his director backstage with praise. Its incredible that two outsiders like [Emmanuel Lubezki] and Alejandro, that came from Mexico, came to our industry, were firm in their beliefs artistically, and here we have a two-time winner at the Academy Awards, and Chivo, a three-time winner, he said. These guys represent everything about what this industry is and what it should be. Jacob Tremblay and Abraham Attah, wee beasts in the room. Photo: ABC In the end, most of the years Oscar front-runners prevailed: season-long favorite Spotlight reasserted itself when it counted, and Brie and Leo claimed the statues that had effectively been promised to them from the start. And while there was still room for a surprising upset, as Sylvester Stallone learned when the Best Supporting Actor trophy went to the all-but-forgotten Mark Rylance, what at one point seemed like an Oscars ceremony awash in uncertainly turned out to be yet another underwhelming awards show. Even Chris Rock, the supposed #OscarsSoWhite Knight, took a measured though still mostly funny approach to his hosting duties. But, hey: Joe Biden. High: Lady Gagas performance. Lady Gagas having the best month of her career, from playing the Super Bowl to honoring David Bowie at the Grammys. And with all eyes back on her, Gaga used her second Oscar performance (remember this?) to shed more light on sexual-assault survivors, standing with dozens of them onstage. Sorry, Academy, but the far more significant writings on their arms. Low: Spoiling Carol in Cate Blanchetts Best Actress clip. A minor quibble, but still: Carol is not a movie that relies much on suspense. One of its few twists is the true nature of Cory Michael Smiths character, which was promptly spoiled in the Academys choice of Cate Blanchett clips. Snubbing Carol wasnt enough? High: Jacob Tremblay and Abraham Attah getting a boost. Though deeply disturbing things happened to the characters Tremblay and Attah played in Room and Beasts of No Nation, respectively, the two child actors provided one of the cutest moments of the night when they walked onstage to present the Best Live Action Short Film award and found the mic to be too high. After Rock jogged out with a pair of boxes for them to stand on, Tremblay thanked him with a pitch-perfect kid joke: I loved you in Madagascar. And so Tremblays awards-season clinic continued. also High: Tremblays reaction to the Star Wars droids. La reaccion de Jacob Tremblay al aparecer los personajes de Star Wars en los #Oscars https://t.co/EXRRRmiHAOhttps://t.co/Cn9Fb4BN3e EL MUNDO (@elmundoes) February 29, 2016 Low: The Ali G bit. Sacha Baron Cohens return to his Ali G persona tonight was a hard pass: He brought back the character who made him famous, but to belittle the whole concept of honoring actors of color. Sure, the Minions joke got a genuine laugh, but misidentifying a bunch of black actors and then introducing Room a movie about the sexual exploitation of a young woman and the captivity of her son as a movie about a room full of white people was tone-deaf and unfunny. If you have any doubt about the vibe in that room during his appearance, just look at Olivia Wildes face as she stands up there with him. Low: Sam Smiths speech. Oh, Sam Smith: So well-intentioned and yet so ill-informed. During his acceptance speech for Best Original Song, Smith cited Ian McKellen and said he wasnt sure if an openly gay man had ever won an Oscar before, and if that were the case, hes very happy to be the first! Of course, Smith is forgetting that Tom Daleys arm candy, Dustin Lance Black, won for Best Original Screenplay for Milk in 2009. Smiths failure to fact-check wouldnt have been so bad had he at least acknowledged fellow Song nominee ANOHNI, who is just the second trans person to ever be nominated for an Oscar. But wait, maybe its just easier to forget her because the Academy didnt even ask her to perform her song. Hey @SamSmithWorld, if you have no idea who I am, it may be time to stop texting my fiance. Here's a start: https://t.co/8hGTRtIaMK Dustin Lance Black (@DLanceBlack) February 29, 2016 Mid: Chris Rocks monologue. Chris Rocks opening Oscars monologue didnt quite hit it out of the park (the joke that there were real things to protest in the 60s was a misreading of both the past and present), but what it did provide was a focused ten-minute stand-up on racism in Hollywood. Plus, it provided one standout joke. Is Hollywood racist? asked Rock. Hollywood is sorority racist. Its like, We like you Rhonda, but youre not a Kappa. Low: Leaving Abe Vigoda off the In Memoriam segment. Its ironic that the man who spent the last 30 years of his life poking fun at rumors that hed died would be left off the Oscars In Memoriam reel the year he actually did die. But if anyone could see the dark humor there, we bet Abe Vigoda could. High: Mad Maxs six Oscars Mad Max dominated the first half of the nights awards, taking home six very well-deserved Oscars for costume, production design, cinematography, film editing, and sound categories. It may not have reached Valhalla, but we take comfort in the fact that it still came away with double the Oscars of any other film. and then a Low: Jenny Beavans rude reception. Mad Max costume designer Jenny Beavan had her acceptance speech cut off tastelessly early, even by Oscar standards. Then again, she couldnt have felt that welcome to begin with: This is what happens when a normal person walks into a room full of entitled snobs. #Oscars https://t.co/Y9zaQaN4W6 (@studioexec1) February 29, 2016 High: Spotlight won Best Picture. It turns out The Revenant wasnt an inevitability (well, except when it came to Leo). Instead, Best Picture went to the quieter movie that could: Spotlight, Tom McCarthys film about the Boston Globes investigation into the Catholic Churchs systemic cover-up of sexual abuse committed by its clergy. Maybe print journalism isnt dead after all. Low: The running Girl Scouts gag. Hooray for Chris Rock for bringing his daughters Girl Scout troupe to the Oscars! Sending the Scouts out into the audience to sell cookies was a very funny bit that brought to mind Ellens pizza joke of two years ago. But this is an awards show, it wasnt allowed to end there. In the draggy second half, Rock kept on coming back to the bit, never heightening it, just bringing it back out. That, kids, is how you ruin a joke. High: Stacey Dashs troll. Rarely does a right-wing nutcase laugh with the people laughing at her, and, really, who can be sure Stacey Dash even got the joke. Still, her surprise cameo at the Oscars as the Academys new director of minority outreach program was the perfect wink at the white folks in the room she aims to please, and all the black people at home (where else) shes since dismissed. You have to assume this bit was one of Chris Rocks own the #OscarsSoWhite troll we were waiting for. Low: That racist Asian bit. For a show so self-conscious about its shortcomings when it comes to black representation, this years Oscars still included a bafflingly tone-deaf segment in which Chris Rock joked about Asian children being exploited to make your mobile phones while three (adorable) Asian children stood silently behind him. High: The Sound Design segments. Every year, sound editing and mixing are treated as the ugly-duckling categories: We joke about how even the voters dont know what they mean, much less the audience at home. But this year, the producers cleverly decided to strip away the spare parts, presenting clips from each nominee with the soundtracks isolated to stress the craft and skill that went into each films sound. While we may not be any closer to really understanding the difference between editing and mixing, at least we can all now appreciate the accomplishments of the honored nominees. If you couldn't see anything and just heard the sound design portion of the #Oscars, it would be the most terrifying thing ever Josh Gad (@joshgad) February 29, 2016 Low: Choosing Blackbird as the In Memoriam song We were only waiting for this moment when Leonard Nimoy died? Lol, in a night of whiteness, Dave Grohl performing Blackbird in 2016 is maybe the whitest shit of all time. David Cho (@davidcho) February 29, 2016 and Low: Closing the night with Fight the Power. We are here for Chris Rock denouncing the Academys problems with race throughout the night. But to play us out with Public Enemys Fight the Power was a step too far. It felt like the Academy elbowing us in the side, as if they were in on the joke. Theyre not. The Spotlight (movie) team Photo: MARK RALSTON/Getty Images It was a twist-filled awards season right up until the last category was called on Oscar night, but in the end, did we twist around so much that we ended up right back where we started? Two of the most-talked-about wins happened when Spotlight took Best Picture over the surging The Revenant and Bridge of Spies star Mark Rylance triumphed in the Best Supporting Actor race over heavy favorite Sylvester Stallone. Still, the signs were there and the seeds were planted for both victories all along. We all just got distracted. Lets start by figuring out the biggest win, Spotlights. Out of the Toronto Film Festival last September, Oscar predictors anointed this journalism drama the Best Picture front-runner to beat, but two flashy competitors eventually came along that gave the film a real run for its money: Adam McKays financial-crisis comedy The Big Short and Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritus survival epic The Revenant. Still, Spotlight retained its pole position up until the Golden Globes, when a win for The Revenant (coinciding with the films remarkable box-office surge) made pundits suddenly optimistic about the Leonardo DiCaprio films chances, despite the fact that the overlapping membership between the Globes voting body and the Academy numbers only one person. The three biggest Hollywood guilds were then supposed to weigh in and clarify the field last year, for example, the Producers Guild, Screen Actors Guild, and Directors Guild all came out in favor of Inarritus eventual Best Picture winner Birdman but they only confirmed the three-way split, since the PGA went for The Big Short, SAG went for Spotlight, and the DGA honored Inarritu. When The Revenant also took top honors at the BAFTA awards across the pond, it appeared to tip the hardware total in that films favor: After all, you usually need broad support in a variety of fields to win the Best Picture Oscar, and these diverse voting bodies tilting toward The Revenant appeared to give it the edge. But in the end, there were still key statistical debits working against The Revenant that kept giving me pause in fact, I recently named five of them. The Academy is very stingy with back-to-back wins, and no director has ever made two Best Picture winners in a row; was the twofer of Birdman and The Revenant really so overweeningly significant that the Academy was ready to make Oscar history with it? A clutch of other snubs proved noteworthy, too: The Revenant wasnt nominated for its screenplay (Titanic is the only film in the last few decades to take Best Picture without a script nod), and the Screen Actors Guild declined to nominate its ensemble (a sign of potentially shallow actor support that only Best Picture winner Braveheart has ever been able to overcome). Spotlight had to surmount its own statistical odds to triumph, since its now the first movie to win Best Picture with only one other Oscar (for its screenplay) since The Greatest Show on Earth in 1952. But it had a whole lot of other things going in its favor, including a social significance that was arguably greater than its competitors and, most important, an awards-season team led by veteran strategist Lisa Taback that fought for every last vote. Over the last four years, the Best Picture and Best Director categories have split three times, and Tabacks team didnt throw in the towel when it looked like Inarritu had his category sewn up over the more mild Spotlight director Thomas McCarthy. They knew that the man who makes the most technically audacious movie often triumphs in Best Director, but that there still remained room for the smaller Spotlight to seize Best Picture in a split. In the end, the flashier films proved to be flashes in the pan, and slow-and-steady Spotlight took the gold. That win will give new predictive power to the Screen Actors Guild awards, and Stallones loss could be chalked up to bad luck at the same precursor. Startling many, he wasnt even nominated for a SAG award in December, and while a few actors have still gone on to win an Actor despite that snub, those performers usually come from end-of-the-year movies that screen and peak much later in Oscar season. While industry observers touted Stallones comeback narrative as irresistible, I kept talking to actual Hollywood insiders who werent that enamored of Stallone as a person over his few decades in show business, and consequently withheld their vote. Its a problem that afflicted other Oscar nominees like Mickey Rourke, Lauren Bacall, and Burt Reynolds, who learned that a comeback narrative can only take you so far: If the voters dont actually want to see you on that stage, you wont make it up those steps. Thats why I kept singling out Supporting Actor as the performance category most ripe for an upset, though I undervalued Rylance, instead figuring that a surprise victor would come from one of the other Best Picture front-runners, like Mark Ruffalo from Spotlight or Christian Bale from The Big Short. In the end, I realize that I overlooked a key pattern: The voters I spoke to who were so resistant to Stallone were the same older men who praised Bridge of Spies so much last fall. In Rylance, they had an alternative. Like Spotlight, hed been there all along. News / National by Staff reporter In a sensational claim, former war veterans leader Jabulani Sibanda has allegedly turned down an offer from President Robert Mugabe's Zanu-PF for him to take over as War Veterans minister from the under-fire incumbent, Christopher Mutsvangwa.The fearless Sibanda, who was sacked from Zanu-PF in 2014 after accusing First Lady Grace Mugabe of usurping her husband's powers and staging "a bedroom coup" at State House, would have been a totally unexpected appointment for the War Veterans ministry - if the claims are true.Repeated efforts yesterday to ascertain the veracity of the claims with senior government officials did not bear fruit.But speaking to the Daily News, Sibanda himself chose to say he had refused to "betray the people of Zimbabwe" by re-joining Zanu-PF, adding that he had "great respect for Mutsvangwa and war veterans" - a reason that made it impossible for him to even think about going against the interests of the beleaguered minister."I would never have accepted that because Zimbabweans would never forgive me. I can assure you that I will not betray the struggle. I could have taken advantage to lambast Mutsvangwa but I did not do that because I respect him, as he is a war veteran."I respect all war veterans and we need to work together as war veterans to save our people. We don't need to be fighting amongst ourselves as war veterans," Sibanda said, without speaking directly about Mugabe's alleged offer to him to become the new War Veterans minister.But a more forthcoming Zimbabwe People First (ZPF) spokesperson, Rugare Gumbo, said Zanu-PF had indeed asked Sibanda to take over from Mutsvangwa, both as War Veterans minister and chairman of the Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association (ZNLWVA)."Mugabe wanted Jabu to be minister and chairman of war veterans but he had to apologise to Mugabe first, which Jabu turned down. If you want me to be specific, they invited him to discuss the offer."We are aware of their (Zanu-PF) strategy which is being initiated by the G40."That is why they are now talking about the so-called (Zanu-PF) hearings that they are currently conducting, but our people know that this is a charade and a temporary reprieve they are being offered just to stabilise the Zanu-PF ship."Besides, Zanu-PF is finished anyway, and there is no chance that they will bounce back. They are down and out," Gumbo said.Another source claimed in an interview with the Daily News that Sibanda had allegedly received a call from top Zanu-PF officials on Wednesday last week, inviting him to go there and meet with Mugabe.Rather incredulously for a man who was supposedly earmarked to become a Cabinet minister, the source claimed that the former war veterans' leader had even been sent bus fare via Ecocash to travel from Bulawayo to Harare for the alleged meeting with the president."When he arrived, he refused to check in at Rainbow Towers Hotel, where he had been booked, opting to meet the president's emissaries at a local garage where they briefed him that the president wanted to appoint him War Veterans minister."Jabu was supposed to apologise to the president for the bedroom coup statements that he made, after which he was supposed to address a media conference lambasting Mutsvangwa and his group, and declaring that he had taken over as war veterans' chairman," the top Zanu-PF official claimed.Sibanda is now part of former Vice President Joice Mujuru's ZPF, which is set to clash head-on with Zanu-PF in the eagerly-anticipated 2018 national elections.The Zanu-PF bigwig who spoke to the Daily News added that Zanu-PF officials had allegedly been left frustrated by developments, as they had wanted Sibanda to address the media before his televised address to the nation last Friday, in which he would have lambasted Mutsvangwa for misleading war veterans who ended up being battered by riot police."This was a G4O strategy to isolate Vice President Emmerson Mnangagwa, but it backfired in spectacular fashion. We do not know what he said to the top officials exactly. But they (G40) never expected Jabu to turn Mugabe down."Now they have concluded that there is a possibility of Mujuru joining hands with Mnangagwa, after Jabu refused to blast Mutsvangwa, so they are looking for other means to counter that," the party bigwig said.Meanwhile, the Zanu-PF women's league resolved at a marathon meeting in Harare on Wednesday to have the suspensions of all party officials, including MPs linked to Mujuru, lifted unconditionally before ZP is officially launched.Women's league political commissar Mabel Chinomona confirmed that the women had met at length, but said she did not have the details of the resolutions that were made as she had left early."I did not take a long time in the meeting because I had to see a dentist, so I am not aware of what was discussed in there, but you could ask the league's spokesperson," Chinomona said.But another league official confirmed the development and also said they had resolved to take charge of the 21st February Movement celebrations scheduled for Great Zimbabwe in Masvingo today - after receiving reports that Team Lacoste officials in the province were working to embarrass the First Family at the event."You are going to notice on Saturday (today) that the league will be taking an unusually active role at the event that is traditionally a youth thing."We do not want to leave anything to chance because the youths on the ground have expressed fears that the celebrations could be scuttled."We do not trust the Masvingo provincial executive as well as some youth league leaders who are said to be hiring people to cause chaotic scenes at the celebrations," the official said. Its Leap Day William! Photo: Ali Goldstein/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images In honor of Leap Day, we asked 30 Rock showrunner Robert Carlock to tell us how the classic season-six episode Leap Day came to be. Happy Merlinpeen! This was one of my favorite episodes to be involved in. I didnt write the original draft, but I was there as the writers were breaking it. It came at a difficult point in the year when we were kind of behind, and the room had just been talking about this silly thing: What if we made a big deal out of Leap Day? At 30 Rock, its a pretty elastic universe. You never knew exactly when it would break, when Tina would tell me it was too crazy, or I would tell the writers it was too crazy. I remember there was a kind of nervousness the writers werent sure but I loved it so much immediately. And once I was onboard, I had to sell Tina on it not by manipulation, just by presenting the idea and tap dancing as hard as I could. And she was totally onboard. Maybe a small eye roll. We were always creating a universe that was a little sideways, a little parallel to the one we experience every day. I remember this being one of the easiest episodes to break ever, because we realized it was a whole buffet of stuff the audience already knows. Suddenly, youre handed everything associated with any holiday, and you get to recast it. Oh, great, well do a Scrooge conceit. Well go to a Leap Day party. Well write songs. Well come up with traditions. You just saw the whole thing immediately, even though I think we were telling four full stories in it. The hardest part was the three-line exchange explaining how this had never been discussed before, why it was such a big deal, and why Liz Lemon didnt know about it when we saw her four years ago during the previous Leap Day. Jim Carrey as Dave Williams. Photo: Ali Goldstein/NBC/NBCU Photo Bank via Getty Images We shot that Jim Carrey movie in the body of it because we were like, There has to be a movie about Leap Day. Jim had a ton of ideas we tried to incorporate. There was that shot of him running down the sidewalk, and it was like the end-of-movie moment I was very connected with my son and I solved the court case from earlier! and hes tearing his clothes off. That was not scripted, but it was wonderful. I wish it happened in my life more. And of course, having Alec running around New York crying, Happy Leap Day! like its the end of Its a Wonderful Life. It was one of those episodes full of moments where I was like I cant believe theyre letting us do this. Someones paying for this to happen. Just as life in Alexandria seemed to be slowing down, things get a hell of a lot more complicated. We last saw Jesus busting up Rick and Michonnes cuddle time, and in this episode, we find out why hes got a news of the mind-blowing, paradigm-shifting variety. Jesus is from an outpost called Hilltop, and his people have the food and supplies that the safe zone so badly needs. How hard can it be to make a trade, right? Pretty damn hard, as it turns out, thanks to Hilltops sucky leader, the looming presence of Negan, and a knife-wielding dude with a man-bun and bad intentions. Cultural advancement comes slowly in a zombie apocalypse, but Hilltop represents a quantum leap forward. The compound looks like an Old West settlement, complete with a blacksmith, crops, livestock, and a few FEMA trailers that were somehow transported before the wall went up. Its centerpiece is Barrington House, a massive Southern mansion that was converted into a meticulously preserved museum. Among the residents in these fancy digs is Gregory (played by Xander Berkeley, who unfortunately brings none of his experience running CTU on 24 to the party). Gregory is a natty dresser, a neat freak, and a creepy flirt, as Maggie or Natalie, as he calls her quickly learns. He revels in what he thinks is Hilltops distinct advantage in negotiating with Alexandria, and spells as much out to Maggie: Ive got what you want, but youll need to work for it. Luckily for Ricks crew, a trio of Hilltop traders returns home and inadvertently exposes their Achilles heel. Man-bun is the bearer of grim news a deal went south, and now Negan is holding his brother captive. Jesus later fills in the backstory: Negans gang, ironically dubbed the Saviors, once paid a visit to Hilltop and gave Gregory an offer of the cant-refuse variety: You will give us half of everything you have, and in return, we will not kill you. To show they werent bluffing, the Saviors then beat a 16-year-old to death, and as Jesus recalls, Said we needed to understand, right off the bat. (Perhaps a subtle nod to Negans weapon of choice.) Now its clear that Hilltop needs muscle. Rick wisely notes that A-towns most valuable resource is themselves, and Maggie says theyve dealt with people like Negan before. (How? Gregory asks. Her reply: Theyre dead.) But based on Negans reputation, you get the distinct feeling that shes wrong theyve never faced anyone quite like this guy. Yet the recent peace at Alexandria hasnt softened up our heroes too much. When Man-bun goes bonkers and stabs Gregory, Rick proves he can still switch from kumbaya to killer in a blink. His tussle with Man-bun ends with a punctured carotid and Rick absolutely drenched in a geyser of Man-buns blood. As the horrified Hilltopians look on, Ricks drops a one-word response: What? People, your dude just tried to kill Rick. What did you think hed do? Of course, the visit to Hilltop is about much more than food and meds. One of the Hilltopians they saved in the episodes brief bout with zombies is Harlan, who happens to have been an obstetrician and still has a working ultrasound machine and neonatal vitamins at his disposal. Maggie takes a big step forward as the groups negotiator, a role Rick wisely passed on; its doubtful he would have kept his cool in the face of Gregs weaselly demands (or kept his gun holstered). With ice-water veins and a no-bullshit attitude, Maggie talks Gregory into what sounds like a sweet deal: We kill Negan, you give us half, up front, right now. Its a badass move that rivals anything Michonne has done with her swords. Speaking of Miss M or Carls mom, as Jesus calls her the young Grimes has a rather awkward convo with his pops about what happened the night before. (Son, this just happened. Like, just happened, bro.) Hopefully Lori gave Carl the birds-and-bees talk, because this stuff is clearly not Ricks forte. Rick makes it clear his thing with Michonne is different, and judging by the goo-goo eyes and hand-holding in the RV, he means it. (And however you feel about Carl these days, it was tough to see the poor kid tell Rick hes skipping the Hilltop trip because of his messed-up face. Gabriel should thank him for taking on the job as Judiths babysitter.) While Richonne is going strong, Abraham is having quite the romantic crisis. Hard to take pity on the Sarge, given hes torn between Rosita, the smoking-hot Latina Lara Croft, and Sasha, his smoking-hot, rifle-toting, peace-sign-flashing patrol partner. With Rosita, the sex is hot and the gifts thoughtful. What more could a guy ask for in a post-apocalyptic relationship? Yet the heart wants what the heart wants, and as the Sarge nearly gets choked out at Hilltop, Sashas voice is dancing in his head. To drive the point home, we see Rositas tail-light necklace lying on the ground, forgotten. (He may be lousy with the ladies, but Sarges one-liners always deliver the ugglin bumplies reference to Rick and Michonne and his Bisquick question for Glenn were among his finest work.) Sarges love triangle Richonne Glenn and Maggies ultrasound photo all this potential happiness and hope for the future feels like a setup for heartbreak. Daryl thinks this Negan guy is an emperor with no clothes and that the Saviors are running a hustle: These dicks just got a good story. Boogeyman, he aint shit. Rick and Michonne seem to agree with him. They at least sound confident about making short work of Negan, affirming to each other, We will win. But its the architect of the deal, Maggie, who senses whats coming when she assesses the consequences of her pact with Gregory: Its gonna cost us somethin. Sure, the A-towners arent giving up any ammo or supplies. Their end of this bargain is nevertheless guaranteed to come at a much higher price than they realize. Translation: Folks are going to die by seasons end. News / National by Staff reporter Tendai Biti People's Democratic Party (PDP) leader says Zimbabweans should be worried over Zanu-PF's factional wars that have put the nation on the edge, and on the cusp of anarchy.Biti told South African channel ANN7TV that the volatile situation had been compounded by President Mugabe who he accused of taking a back-seat, and leaving the nation in limbo.Following the clashes between war veterans and the police, Biti said very soon, it would be the army fighting the police.Biti also criticised the First lady for her comments at a recent rally, in which she said she is in charge, a statement which Biti said resembled a constitutional coup. When Riya Rahman fasts each year while observing Ramadan, she is reminded why she works for her passion. The Baylor University senior who has worked to end hunger was honored at the White House on Friday. She was one of nine people from across the country selected as White House Champions of Change for Summer Opportunity. The children she helped feed through Baylors Texas Hunger Initiative gave her perspective as she fasted from sunup to sundown. Every day they would come out, and I felt like I was dying, Rahman said. But what about the kids who have to travel a distance to the site, who eat food outside in ridiculously dry heat? A political science major, Rahman became interested in child hunger after going to Washington, D.C., two summers ago and learning what the government and nonprofit organizations do to fight it. On her trip this weekend, she met with officials including Valerie Jarrett, a senior adviser to President Barack Obama and Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack. She also participated in an afternoon workshop with mayors from around the country. However, her previous trip to the nations capital made a larger difference in her desire to fight hunger. I remember coming home and lying in my bed and all I could think was, What am I doing about this right now? Rahman said. After contacting the Texas Hunger Initiatives Dallas office, she was offered a summer internship that focused on community outreach. It was the best summer Ive ever had, Rahman said. In Dallas, since age 6, I never ventured out before. But I spent the summer going out to impoverished areas, which is really eye-opening and enlightening. Ive been here for such a long time, but its the first time Im hearing about this. 1 in 4 affected According to the Texas Hunger Initiative, approximately 1 in 4 Texas children are affected by hunger. Nationally, 1 in 5 children face hunger. Rahman understands the data and realizes the importance of talking to people in charge, said Doug McDurham, Texas Hunger Initiatives director of communications and student engagement. They realize that they have the ability to walk into their congressional representatives office and have a conversation with someone, McDurham said. Its very common to realize that you have a voice. This is what democracy means. Riya is a good example of that. Last summer, she was an AmeriCorps VISTA participant at the Dallas office while organizing a summer meals program. She is now an undergraduate policy analyst at the Texas Hunger Initiative Central Office, focusing on child nutrition programs at state and national levels. None of my work has ever been for recognition, Rahman said. My life changed the minute I decided to be passionate about child hunger. Once she graduates in May, Rahman said she hopes to continue on the career path she has started down. I hope to stay in child hunger, and I would miss it if I didnt get to, she said. I love advocating and lobbying. News / National by Thabo Kunene African politics is by nature unpredictable and full of surprises.In Zimbabwe prophets of doom have never had problems predicting the outcome of every election since independence.But none of them foresaw the fallout between president Robert Mugabe and different factions of his ruling Zanu-PF party and his shock troops,the war veterans. Despite all the political upheavals and dirty fighting within his party, Mugabe has emerged with little bruises.Disillusioned party leaders who fear that Mugabe is trying to create political dynasty by vacating his throne to his family have locked horns with those supporting the First Lady's ambitions to succeed her husband.The two factions at the centre of the succession battle are the Lacoste which is backing the man known as the crocodile-Emmerson Mnangagwa. Generation 40 or G40 is a faction compossed of new breed of young radicals determined to block the crocodile from ascending to the throne.The name crocodile comes from the Zanla guerrilla Mnangagwa led during the early years of the war for independence.The G40 is campaigning for the first lady to take over from her husband when he dies in office since its clear he will not resign.Caught between the two factions of the Zanu-PF power struggles are ageing veterans of independence war-the former guerrillas.The war veterans,who served as Zanu-PF militia during the violent and chaotic farm invasions, have become the latest casualties of the succession war. It must be noted that the former guerrillas who have been sucked into the Zanu-PF power struggles are those who fought under Zanla, the armed wing of Zanu-PF during the war.Its clear the succession war is taking no prisoners. Zipra veterans who are predominantly Ndebele and Kalanga have chosen not to get involved as they are viewed as outsiders in Zanu-PF internal wars.In Zimbabwe contenders for the highest office on the land never declare their intentions openly. It could be seen as a direct challenge to the dear leader and a treasonous act.Those with presidential ambitions tend to hide behind factions.Going back to recent events in Harare where the war veterans were clobbered by the riot police, the former guerrilla fighters were probably at the wrong place at the wrong time. They had gathered in Harare after they had been misled by Chris Mutsvangwa, the minister responsible for their welfare.Mutsvangwa who served as Zimbabwe ambassador to China and one time head of the state owned Zimbabwe Broadcasting Corporation (ZBC), allegedly told the veterans that they would be addressed by their patron and commander in chief, Mugabe if they came to Harare.As it emerged later, Mutsvangwa had lied about Mugabe addressing the war veterans. The ageing former fighters, some of them looking frail were hoping Mugabe would shed light on why his wife Grace, has been holding political crusades where she takes pleasure in insulting them and those suspected to be backing Mnangagwa's presidential ambitions.The crocodile has not struck and no one knows what he is planning but the First Lady is being warned to keep away from the river because it's the crocodile's territory. He is probably waiting for the right moment to strike at his opponents.As it turned out Mugabe was not aware he had been scheduled to address the former fighters. Believing their grievances were being ignored, the war veterans staged a protest outside the party headquarters. The riot police descended on them with baton sticks, sjamboks and teargased the former fighters because their gathering was illegal.Many who no longer had the energy to run tasted the brutality of the police who clobbered them with sjamboks and baton sticks. Some of the war veterans suffered injuries which needed medical attention. Mutsvanga fumed at the beating of the war veterans by the police accusing some of being ungrateful for the sacrifices of the war veterans.Mutsvangwa has since been fired as the war veterans leader and removed from the association together with his wife, Monica. His second in command,Headman Moyo was suspended together with outspoken Victor Matemadanda.It was a scene Zimbabweans never thought they would live to witness, the riot police beating up war veterans. Times have really changed in Zimbabwe. For more than 15 years the war veterans have been at the centre of human rights abuses and torturing opposition supporters at their clandestine bases. They abused anyone who challenged Mugabe. They had become law unto themselves.Mutsvangwa was accused of being disrespectful to the president and of failing to unite the war veterans. His dismissal was announced by his enemy, Mandy Chimene who is also secretary for information and publicity in the association.This time the list of sins committed by the war veterans included defending Mutsvanga who supports the Mnangagwa faction. For that they found themselves in the firing line. Mnangagwa has been the front runner for the presidency for the past 10 years until the young turks in Zanu-PF or the G40 group emerged to derail his ambitions.Insiders in the party say the young turks want to employ dirty tactics to tarnish his image by directly linking him to the Fifth Brigade massacres in Matabeleland and the Midlands in the 80s. The mass slaughter of civilians in the two provinces left an estimated 20 000 dead and thousands more missing after they were abducted by agents of the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) which was controlled by Mnangagwa.Mnangagwa was the state security minister during the massacres and was one of the masterminds of the ethnic cleansing operation code-named Gukurahundi-Shona word for the rains that washes the chaff before the spring rain.If it came to voting by provinces,the G40 knows the Zanu-PF leaders in Matabeleland will not support Mnangagwa as Mugabe's succesor. Mugabe's wife has been blamed for the current crisis within the former liberation movement. Her divide and rule tactics led to the ouster of vice president Joyce Mujuru from both government and the party.She also launched verbal attacks against Jabulani Sibanda, a former Zipra officer and one time Nkomo's bodyguard accusing him of working with Mujuru faction to topple the government.Sibanda was later ousted as chairman of the war veterans with the help of Mutsvanga and others. Insiders said Mutsvangwa and his inner circle hated Sibanda, his Zipra colleagues and the Ndebele people in general. Sibanda was also rumoured to be alligned to Mujuru faction.Mujuru's supporters in the party and government have been purged and accused of plotting to overthrow the government. Grace certainly won that round against Mujuru faction that was crippled by her husband Solomon Mujuru's death.Mujuru too had lot of support among war veterans thanks to her late husband who was popular with ex Zanla guerrillas. With mujuru elbowed out of the race,the battle lines have been drawn between the Mnangagwa and Grace Mugabe factions for the presidency.The Lacoste faction has allegedly told Grace to stay home and cook for her husband and leave politics to men. Grace supporters hit back accusing Mnangagwa of being a womaniser and a killer. The women are said to be fully behind Mugabe's wife and are determined to help her become the first female head of state in Zimbabwe.But some accuse her of being divisive. While the Zanu-PF fighting plays out in public, one region has been ignored or forgotten, Matabeleland.War veterans and politicians in the region see the power struggles in Zanu-PF as a Mashonaland affair or as they say in Ndebele 'impi yomndeni ayingenwa'. You don't interfere in family feuds. They have chosen to sit on the fence and watch the Zanu-PF house burn.In Zimbabwe,where tribalism is institutionalised,the Ndebele and other tribes in Matabeleland have been counted out of the presidential race. To call for a Ndebele president is like asking America's racist white supremacist hate organisation, the Ku Klux Klan to accept a black president.The war veterans have featured in almost all the political dramas in Zimbabwe dating back to the early 80s when some of them, still fresh from the war, were drafted into the Fifth Brigade to carry out massacres in Matabeleland and Midlands.The former fighters have been involved in human rights abuses and were the architects of violent invasions and occupation of white owned farms from the year 2000. During their invasion of farms, they left a trail of destruction and dead bodies of white farmers who resisted the take over of their property.Some of the farmers were killed without any provocation and no war veteran has ever been brought to trial for the murders and destruction of property on the farms. Had Zimbabwe been a democratic country, most of them would be in jail serving sentences ranging from murder, abductions, robbery, rape and looting of property belonging to farmers. But nothing happened to them because their actions, like those of Gukurahundi were sanctioned from above. News / Press Release by Jacob Mafume - PDP National Spokesperson The People's Democratic Party (PDP) notes with approval the recent overtures coming from Zimbabwe's veterans of the liberation struggle of aligning themselves with the broader masses and untangling themselves from ZANU PF's tentacles of patronage, nepotism and violence.The Damascene moment for the war veterans appear to have come as a result of the denigrating insults aimed at them by President Mugabe's second wife, Grace Mugabe, who disparaged the liberation fighters as nonentities to Zimbabwe.In addition to the unprovoked verbal abuse by Mugabe's second wife, the war veterans were also battered, tear gassed and pummeled by water cannons when they attempted to hold a meeting in Harare recently.After the ruthless bashing of the war veterans by the police, Mugabe gave a meek response in which he unconvincingly attempted to apportion blame for the battering of the liberation fighters to their leadership. What is however apparent to all and sundry is that it is Mugabe's second wife who is responsible for their bashing as she considers them a threat to her unbridled ambitions to power.Mugabe's second wife is on a war path with real and perceived opponents as she pursues her ambitions to succeed her husband who in any case is clearly incapacitated to run the Office of the President of our beloved republic.Like her husband and unlike Mugabe's first wife, Sally Mugabe, Grace has a deep seated contempt for war veterans and sees them only as useful to the extent that the bow down before her and her husband's interests.Therefore the PDP appreciates the fact that now war veterans have opened their eyes and finally saw Mugabe's leadership in ZANU PF for the narrow-minded lot that it is and how it is devoid of any national interest.Mugabe has survived by manipulating the war veterans through patronage and coercion and also the divide and rule tactics. He also shut the bulk of war veterans from rising within the ranks of the powerful CIO and Military Intelligence after the war preferring to continue with the residues of the Gestapo styled Selous Scouts led by Ken Flower.The coming of the war veterans to the side of the democratic forces is crucial for creating an organic nexus between the liberation movement and the post liberation movement which was missing in Zimbabwe's change matrix.This is more important now that some illustrious liberation fighters who were thrown out of ZANU PF for being opposed to Mugabe's attempt to create a tribal/family dynasty are in the process of forming a party hence the options for war veterans to be active outside ZANU PF are abundant.We in the PDP have long stated that we hold no brief with the country's liberation heroes and have insisted that they must refuse to be used by the moribund ZANU PF regime and the now senile Robert Mugabe to push for interest that are against the very same values they struggled for.As a party we actually have many war veterans and war collaborators within our ranks and leadership and therefore maintain an open door policy to those who want to join us.Zimbabwe is at a critical cross roads and the coming out of war veterans in support and solidarity with the people is most welcome. This will bolster the grand coalition of democrats we have been calling for which will torpedo the criminal ZANU PF regime out of power.That when Mugabe and his cabal where eating 92 kilograms of cake over 200 war veterans from across the country met in Harare to discuss the challenges facing the people and brainstorm their points of intervention shows the emerging and changing nature of Zimbabwe's transition from Mugabe's failed rule. It also confirms a total organic break up in ZANU PF between the corrupt elite politicians and the liberation fighters who bore the brunt of the struggle and this introduces new dimensions to Zimbabwe's transition.The transition will now embody the liberation movement, the post liberation movement and the young people of today who are the custodians of democratic posterity. Indeed another Zimbabwe is possible! News / Regional by Munyaradzi Musiiwa A Midlands State University (MSU) Lecturer was allegedly brutally stabbed to death by her husband after she bragged about an extra-marital affair she was having as revenge for her husband's infidelity.Netsai Ncube, 48, from the department of Agriculture, Livestock and Wildlife Management at the university died in hospital on Saturday after her husband, Fred Nyamhanga Shavi, 63, an Education Inspector with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, viciously stabbed her, leaving her for dead at the couple's house in Southdowns suburb in Gweru.Ncube died at Gweru Provincial hospital at around 2.30PM. Sources close to investigations alleged that Shavi had hired hitmen to kill his wife's alleged boyfriend and bring him the man's eyes as proof that he was dead.The assassins allegedly slaughtered a goat and brought its eyes instead before making a police report. After allegedly stabbing his wife, Shavi fled to his rural home in Sanyati where he told relatives that he wanted to commit suicide.Police arrested him in Sanyati yesterday. A woman who said she was Ncube's sister declined to speak to The Chronicle, saying her father who was away, was the family' spokesperson.Deputy Officer Commanding Gweru District, Superintendent Elias Chivandire said Shavi might have had a misunderstanding with his wife on Friday night before he attacked her with an unknown sharp object the following morning.He said police investigations were underway. "I can confirm that we're investigating a murder case where a 63-year-old male from Southdowns low density suburb is suspected to have killed his wife by stabbing her with a sharp object in the head."It's suspected that the man might have attacked his wife in the early hours of Saturday before he called his nephew Xmas Mutero of Msasa Park in Kwekwe and told him to go and check on his wife because he had attacked her."He also threatened to commit suicide," said Supt Chivandire. Mutero, Supt Chivandire said, proceeded to the house where he found the gates and doors locked but forced open both the gate and door and found the now deceased groaning in pain while bleeding profusely.He then contacted the Gweru Fire Brigade who provided an ambulance to ferry the now deceased to Gweru Provincial Hospital. Supt Chivandire said Mutero, however, did not report the matter to police but informed the now deceased's son who then informed other relatives."The relatives then reported the matter at Senga Police Station," he said. Supt Chivandire said after committing the crime Shavi fled to his rural home in Sanyati.Gweru Provincial Hospital Medical Superintendent Dr Fabian Mashingaidze confirmed that Ncube died at the hospital while waiting to be transferred to Parirenyatwa Hospital in Harare. Shavi allegedly told investigators that he had for a long time been fighting with his wife over infidelity issues.A source close to the couple said Shavi once had sex with a girlfriend while his wife watched."Their marriage was on the rocks. Shavi brought a girlfriend home and had sex with her while the wife watched. The wife sought revenge by also having an extramarital affair and she told her husband about it. This must have angered Shavi," said the source."Shavi hired people to kill his wife's boyfriend and demanded the man's eyes as proof. However the hired assassins slaughtered a goat and brought the eyes as proof." The source said Shavi then murdered his wife. "Shavi wanted to kill both his wife and her boyfriend," said the source. News / Regional by Mashudu Netsianda GWANDA Town's director of housing Kemelo Mdlongwa-Nkwate is being sued for $100,000 by a woman who claims she is in an adulterous relationship with her husband.The aggrieved woman, Thandeka Moyo, through her lawyers Mathonsi Ncube Law Chambers, on Friday filed summons at the Bulawayo High Court.Moyo, in court papers, said the adulterous union between her husband, Twoboy Moyo and Mdlongwa-Nkwate resulted in the birth of a child who is now six-years-old.Twoboy and Thandeka got married in 1998 in terms of Chapter 5:11 of the Marriages Act."Our marriage was entered into in 1998 and it still subsists and the defendant and I are not on friendly terms. On different occasions and places, the defendant and my husband committed adultery which resulted in the birth of a child in 2010 and their relationship has been going on for the past seven years," said Moyo.She said as a result of Mdlongwa-Nkwate's actions, she has suffered damages in the form of loss of love, contumelia and companionship. She is demanding $100,000 from Mdlongwa-Nkwate and interest calculated from the date of summons to the date of final payment.Moyo said she was no longer enjoying her conjugal rights following Mdlongwa-Nkwate's interference with her marriage. Moyo said despite demand Mdlongwa-Nkwate has refused or neglected to pay the money.Mdlongwa-Nkwate has not yet entered a notice of appearance to defend the summons and she has 10 days to do so. In May 2014, Mdlongwa-Nkwate approached the courts seeking a protection order against her 33-year-old son following a fight over her late husband's estate.She accused her son Bohlale, a teacher at Plumtree High School, of harassing and insulting her. The South Australian Aviation Museum near Adelaide may be little known outside of Australia, but they have an important collection of nearly two dozen aircraft, some of which are exceedingly rare. They currently have three airframes under restoration: a Fairey Battle, an Avro Anson, and the nose section from an English Electric Canberra. Phil Buckley recently paid the museum a visit and will be reporting on these restorations in a series of articles over the next few days. Todays episode will feature the Canberra! RESTORATION UPDATE CANBERRA WD954 NOSE SECTION Based upon an article by Phil Buckley The South Australian Aviation Museum has a complete example of the English Electric Canberra on display, B.2 variant WK165 which is famous for taking part in the missile trials at the Woomera Test Facility. However, the museum acquired the incomplete hulk of T.4 WD954 to serve as a parts source in the restoration of their B.2. WD954, also served in the missile trials at Woomera, and while her history is significant too, the museum decided they needed to focus on the important, and under-represented story of RAAF Canberra crews in combat over Viet Nam. Therefore, they are restoring WD954 to tell the story of Flying Officer Michael Herbert and his navigator, Pilot Officer Robert Carver who lost their lives in RAAF 2 Squadron Canberra A84-231 while returning from a bombing mission near the border between Viet Nam and Laos on November 3rd, 1970. F/O Herbert was on his 199th mission when he died. An investigation team rediscovered his Canberras crash site in April, 2009 and repatriated Herbert and Carvers remains for a state funeral later that year. The two men had been the last missing servicemen remaining from Australias ten-year involvement in the Viet Nam War. English Electric Canberra WD954 originally started life as a B.2 bomber variant; the 13th example off the production line in December, 1951. After a period on loan to the Aircraft & Armament Experimental Establishment, where she took part in the types tropical trials evaluation in Kenya, the aircraft returned to formal RAF service, and underwent modification into a T.4 trainer variant. This conversion, among other things, involved the removal and replacement of her original forward fuselage and cockpit (which amazingly still survives in Britain today). The refurbished WD954, with her brand new forward fuselage, was ready for service by the end of November, 1956, joining the Station Flight at RAF Helmswell initially, before moving on to the Station Flight at RAF Upwood, and eventually joining the books with 76 Squadron at that location. WD954 moved to Australia for pilot training duties on January 9th, 1959. She took up residence at what is now RAAF Edinburgh, near Adelaide. (Note: The Royal Australian Air Force had a fleet of Canberras in service at that time, including forty eight examples that rolled off Australian production lines at the Government Aircraft Factory in Fishermans Bend, Victoria.) By January, 1960, WD954 had moved on to the Long Range Weapons Establishment, Woomera as a missile tracking aircraft. She served there for much of the next decade, before finally retiring formally from flying duties at RAAF Edinburgh on February 13th, 1970. WD954 then endured duties as a weapons target, suffering damage during the Karinga cluster bomb trials. However, she survived long enough to enter preservation as a wing-less hulk with the now sadly defunct Warbirds Aviation Museum at the former RAAF Mildura. (Click HERE to see a fascinating look back at that museum). The South Australian Aviation Museum obtained WD954 in 1993, and as already stated, they used her as a parts source for WK165. With that effort completed, they are now restoring the forward fuselage for a future display on the Viet Nam war. The primary tasks they have been working on are to remove and prevent further corrosion of both external and internal fixtures, to paint the external surfaces, and to replace as many missing parts as possible. They have already made great progress on this project, as you can see in the accompanying photographs, although they are still in search of some cockpit instruments and control panels, and expect the process to take some time to come. It has been necessary to search most overseas and local websites to acquire missing parts, cockpit instruments and control panels being high on the wanted list. It is expected that this search for replacement parts and the ongoing maintenance on this aircraft will continue well into the future. Many thanks to Phil Buckley for his work on this piece. We look forwards to sharing more of his stories in the near future! News / Regional by Thupeyo Muleya A 33-YEAR-OLD illegal foreign currency dealer who has been on the run since December last year after defrauding 17 of his colleagues of R1 million and about $105,000 has been jailed for 27 years by a Beitbridge magistrate.Mvurachena Tadzembwa popularly known as Mupositori disappeared with the money on December 18.He duped his colleagues into pooling resources after convincing them that he had found a buyer for their foreign currency.Tadzembwa, who was hiding in Harare, was arrested when he visited Beitbridge last week.He was convicted on his own plea of guilty to 11 counts of fraud and six others of theft of property by Gloria Takundwa.Tadzembwa will serve an effective 10 years after the magistrate suspended five years on condition of good behaviour.A further 12 years were suspended on condition he restitutes the complainants by March 31.Prosecuting, Nomathemba Sayi told the court that, the suspect approached 11 foreign currency dealers at the border town on December 18 and collected some money from them after misrepresenting that he had found a buyer for the foreign currency.She said six people who called after getting news that he was collecting money to sell, added their cash.Tadzembwa received a total of R955,960 and $105,690 from the complainants and disappeared.She said the complainants got worried when they could not locate him and he was not reachable on his mobile phones.The complainants then reported Tadzembwa to the police leading to his arrest last week. There's a new white rhino calf on the closest thing Queensland has to an African Savannah, an exhibit at Australia Zoo. Humphrey has joined the line up as an ambassador for his endangered wild cousins, whose numbers around the world are decreasing due to poaching and habitat destruction. He was born in October last year and has already stacked on a whopping 200 kilograms. White rhino males can weigh up to 3.6 tonnes when they reach maturity. Washington: US cyber attacks to disrupt Islamic State's communications and overload their networks could force the militant group to use older technologies that are easier for the US to intercept, Defence Secretary Ash Carter said on Monday. Mr Carter and General Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, provided new details about how the Pentagon is using its new aggressive cyber campaign as part of the military operations against IS, also known as ISIL, in Syria and Iraq. "As we disrupt the ISIL communications via cyber or other methods, sometimes we do drive them to other means," Mr Carter told Pentagon reporters. "Sometimes, those other means are easier for us to listen to. So by taking away some of the ways that they are used to operating, they're protected and that they regard as an information sanctuary, drives them to other, including older technologies. And so one way or another, it is a very effective tool." US officials said last week that the military had ramped up cyber operations against IS. The operations include efforts by US Cyber Command at Fort Meade, Maryland, to prevent the group from using the internet and social media to communicate and distribute propaganda aimed at attracting and inspiring recruits. It could also force them back to technologies like cell phones to communicate. Opinion / Columnist The claim by the leader of the newly formed Zimbabwe People First (ZPF) party, Dr Joice Mujuru, the former Vice President of Zimbabwe that her husband, General Solomon Mujuru was shot before being burnt is just a political smokescreen meant to make her get sympathy from the electorate.It is surprising that Dr Mujuru wants the public to sympathise with her through malicious and unsubstantiated claims when she failed to act and reveal the alleged shooting when she was in government.Her claim that General Mujuru was killed by some "people in power" is so strange now as she failed to name them when the inquest on the death of General Mujuru was being carried out.Dr Mujuru's claim that her husband was killed before he was burnt shows that she is desperate for support, hence trying to seek support using unsupported allegations.Dr Mujuru should be aware that no iota of false claim would bring her support from the electorate as people are aware that Mujuru's actions are devoid of anything genuine. Mujuru was in government for more than three decades and she knows quite well the operations of all government departments. She is quite aware of how grievance and procedure actions are carried out in all government departments.If Mujuru is close to reality on what she is claiming today, she could have consulted with the relevant government departments in trying to unearth the reality surrounding the death of her former husband General Solomon Mujuru.For Mujuru to come out now claiming that the General was shot dead before he was burnt by the fire shows how desperate she is in trying to use the dead to get sympathy from the living.Actually Dr Mujuru has realised that using the dead to hunt for supporters is a good way as the people tend to have soft spot with such moves. Recently she addressed some ZPF Matabeleland leadership in Harare in which she told them that the issue of Gukurahundi cannot be closed if the reality concerning that unfortunate era is not opened.Dr Mujuru knows quite well that she has no clear policies that could be of help to the electorate unless the issue of those who died controversially is revisited. Dr Mujuru told them that the Gukurahundi victims should be compensated and those who lost their parents should be assisted to get identification documents.She sought again to put herself in good standing to the Matabeleland regions by going against President Mugabe's assertion in 1999 that the Gukurahundi era was "a moment of madness", saying that it was wrong to refer that period as such. Mujuru wanted to appear good to her Matabeleland North audience by disowning what she also supported during her time in Government that the time of Gukurahundi was "a moment of madness" as espoused by President Mugabe.That act of disowning what she used to believe in and acted upon has become Dr Mujuru's trump card of seeking political friends through such shenanigans. In fact, Mujuru needs to realise that the issue of Gukurahundi is something which cannot bring her votes as she failed to denounce that when she was still in government.It is an open secret that Mujuru has no people at heart because she failed to act with sympathy to those who were in need of help when that was necessary for her to assist. Actually, those who suffered a lot during that time with a lot of people losing their lives know quite well that everything happened under Mujuru's watchful eye as her fallen husband General Mujuru was the Commander of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces.If Mujuru is genuine with what she wants people to believe today that she has heart and feeling sorry for what happened during that time, she could have told her then influential husband General Mujuru to stop that alleged brutality.Dr Mujuru's silence utterances show how desperate she is. He failure to reveal the so-called truth when it was necessary only to say it later shows that even if she is elected to be the Zimbabwean leader she would cover a lot of important things as long they keep her enjoying her comfortable zone.While it is wrong for this writer to dwell more on hearsay, but Dr Mujuru's silence over the death of her husband in which today she is alleging that top Government people could be behind the General's death cements the rumour that she was behind her husband's death.Dr Mujuru must drop the grieving widow act as we all know she and the General were living separate lives.The fact that now she is alleging that those in power know everything about the death of the most decorated General in the country points to the fact that she was also part to that exercise since she was also part and parcel of those who were also in power.So she must not hide behind the finger and confuse the nation over that unfortunate death of the General, but she should tell the nation the whole thing and be strong enough to confess the reality.Cheap politicking has no room in modern day Zimbabwe. From 19 to 22 January 2016 in Tunis (Tunisia), the World Customs Organization (WCO) held a National Workshop to familiarize Customs staff and other stakeholders with the Time Release Study (TRS) and prepare them for the conduct of a study. This four-day Workshop was held with financial support from the WCO Customs Co-operation Fund (CCF) for the benefit of the Tunisian Customs Administration. Expert input was provided by two members of the WCO Secretariat and Cote dIvoire Customs. With a view to ensuring a better understanding of the TRS and its overall environment, presentations dealt with the WCOs role in assisting governments to implement the WTO Agreement on Trade Facilitation (TFA) through its Mercator Programme, the methodology to be used in conducting the TRS and in process mapping for Customs clearance, the national experiences of some countries that had already conducted a TRS, and use of the WCO TRS software. More than 50 participants representing (among others) Tunisian Customs, Tunisia TradeNet (TTN), the Ministry of Transport, the Port of Rades office of the Tunisian Stevedoring and Handling Company (STAM), the Customs brokers union and the private sector took part in the Workshop. During the opening ceremony, the Director Generals spokesperson emphasized the importance of the Workshop, especially with regard to the valuable role which the WCOs TRS can play in identifying bottlenecks in Customs clearance and in suggesting practical ways of improving the situation at borders. The level of attendance at the event reflected the importance placed on this initiative by Tunisian Customs. All participants applauded the quality of the Workshop and especially appreciated the support given by the WCO to the Tunisian Customs Administration. The Workshop resulted in the production of a draft model of process mapping for Customs clearance, with participants undertaking to share materials with their colleagues as appropriate in order to complete this mapping and to conduct a TRS in the near future, regarding this as a guarantee of performance and modernization. The Workshop was brought to a close by Mr.Adel Ben Hassen, Director General of Customs, who congratulated the participants and thanked the WCO for its support. He also expressed gratitude to Cote dIvoire Customs which had agreed to make one of its senior officials available to help with this task. Opinion / Columnist Two of the UK's main newspapers published lengthy articles today on the Nottingham doctor, Sylvester Nyatsuro, who has seized a farm in Zimbabwe. The articles coincided with the presentation of the Vigil's petition to 10 Downing Street calling on the UK to revoke Dr Nyatsuro's British citizenship.What prompted the two papers to revisit the story was the emergence of photographs which showed Dr Nyatsuro and his wife Veronica socialising with Grace Mugabe. As the Daily Mail put it 'Grinning with Mrs Mugabe, GP who was handed white couple's farm'. The photograph was seen as disproving the Nyatsuros' denial that nepotism had played a part in the allocation of the farm to someone who has become a British citizen and lived in the UK for the past 15 years.The mass circulation Daily Mail has been assiduously digging away at the scandal. That it has been joined so enthusiastically by the upmarket Daily Telegraph perhaps reflects the Telegraph's irritation at the Nyatsuros earlier blustering legal threats against the paper which prompted it to drop a previous story from their website.The same Zanu-PF bullying tactics were made against the Vigil but we have not been deterred from demonstrating outside their Nottingham clinic 130 miles north of London to show their patients what sort hypocrites the Nyatsuros are. Our latest protest yesterday was attended by 50 from as far afield as Edinburgh and Portsmouth.A Daily Mail journalist interviewed us there. She then tried to ask Veronica Nyatsuro some questions, only to be pushed angrily away. But fortunately in the UK we can stand up to Zanu-PF's bullying. Our demonstration was addressed by Vigil founder member Ephraim Tapa who said the Nyatsuros were part of last days Zanu-PF looting frenzy, which has also seen other farm seizures and chaos in Marange.Many of the Nottingham demonstrators turned up to support the presentation of the Vigil petition addressed PrimeMinister Cameron which was handed in by: Enniah Dube, Sharon Moyo, CathrineMusa, Chipo Parirenyatwa, Roseline Mukucha and Vinbai Karumbidza.The petition reads: Zimbabwean exiles in the United Kingdom and sympathisers are appalled by the behaviour of Dr Sylvester Nyatsuro and his wife Veronica who run the Willows Medical Centre in Nottingham. Dr Nyatsuro is a British citizen, long resident in this country, yet he has illegally seized a farm in Zimbabwe owned by a white Zimbabwean farmer, Mr Phillip Rankin, who bought it with the approval of the Mugabe government. Dr Nyatsuro and his wife are reported to be connected to Grace Mugabe. We are puzzled why a British doctor should want a farm in Zimbabwe since he and his wife are apparently in full-time employment here and have no known farming expertise in a country facing starvation. We ask your government to consider revoking Dr Nyatsuro's citizenship on the grounds that 'it was obtained by means of fraud, false representation or concealment of any material fact'. We also question his suitability to run an NHS clinic in Nottingham while farming in Zimbabwe.It was accompanied by this letter: Dear Prime Minister: Zimbabwean exiles in the United Kingdom and supporters ask your government to look at the case of Dr Sylvester Nyatsuro, a GP running a clinic in Nottingham with hiswife Veronica. Dr Nyatsuro is from Zimbabwe but has live in the UK for the past 15 years and is now a British citizen. The Sunday Times says he came here as an asylum seeker but this has not stopped him from violently seizing a farm in Zimbabwe owned by a Zimbabwean citizen, Phillip Rankin and his family. We are not aware that Dr Nyatsuro has any farming knowledge or whether he intends to relinquish his Nottingham practice so we wonder what justification he has to take over one of the last remaining white-owned farms in Zimbabwe, beyond being given the go ahead by the Mugabes with whom he and his wife are reported to have connections.The Zimbabwe Vigil draws your attention to the starvation threatening millions of Zimbabweans and the urgent need to resuscitate agriculture and asks you whether 'slimming expert' Dr Nyatsuro is a person likely to further this goal. We believe that he and his wife are Mugabe predators and Dr Nyatsuro's citizenship should be revoked because we believe it must have been obtained under false pretences. We enclose a petition signed by people from around the world who have passed by the Zimbabwe Vigil, which has been held outside the Zimbabwe Embassy in London for more than thirteen years. The petition has also received more than 7,000 online signatures. Opinion / Columnist Musavengana Hove is a budding political writer. Email soldierjournalist@gmail.com for feedback. Almost a fortnight has lapsed since the first lady and members of her G-40 were embroiled in a tribal storm where they seemed to suggest that a Karanga can never be a president. While their utterances can be viewed as political banter as one of the protagonists of the clique once enunciated, but the glaring lack of dialogue on this pertinent issue baffles the mind.It was so surprising that President Mugabe had the audacity to apologise on the tear-gassing of the war veterans by the police relegating to the dustbin such a crucial issue that can propagate the seeds of genocide. The lion of Africa-Mugabe the Rwandan ethnic cleansing is still fresh in our minds and it's high time you ban your mistress' meet people's rallies before it is too late.It must be noted on the very onset that Zimbabwe is a unitary state composed of several languages and dialects and not even one of these diverse tribes has political, economic and cultural title deeds to claim exclusive rights for this country. For Grace, the First shopper to dance to the Zezuru unconquerable jingle is not only ill-thought but vindicates the notion that she is political virgin despite sharing the sheets with the grandfather of Zimbabwe's political orientation.It is also proves right Zimbabweans who disapproved her PHD as what she did without an iota of doubt make her a simple house wife rather than a political contender of repute. For someone who must be grandmotherly to twerk her bum to tribal diatribe is not only uncultured but opens up to a wider range issues which the generality of the populace take for granted. Surely, the foundational principles of this nation called Zimbabwe needs to be revisited for the better of today and the other generations which will come after us.Going forward, Zimbabwe across all geopolitical divides need to find a point of convergence and debate robustly on tribalism and power transfer matrix that is fair and transparent to all groups. Under such a round table, no person is allowed to demonise other groups' views. Zimbabwe belongs to all tribes in it be it Karanga, Manyika, Kalanga, Venda or Zezuru and it's high time we get rid of othering of groups we do not belong for the better of this landlocked country. Zimbabwe, this is our time to put into practice the famous words by Samora Machel; "For a nation to survive, a tribe must die." By so doing, this will put paid to this simmering problem that have been haunting Zimbabwe since her infancy days when more than 20 000 innocent souls were merciless maimed, tortured and butchered in the western parts of Zimbabwe for simply being Ndebele.Secondly, the Hararenisation of Zimbabwe must also top on the agenda. Since time immemorial, Harare has remained the epicenter of economics and political administration. All companies are controlled from Harare be it recruiting of a watchman or a cleaner for a company doing exploitation of Midlands, Manicaland or Matebeland south. While it is common knowledge that due to the fluidity nature of culture and the passage of time, no one can to be an original Zezuru, Karanga or Ndebele, but is a cause of concern if people from the same region dominates the political and economic space. It is from this coincidence or planned matrix that makes a certain tribe considers itself the pinnacles of Zimbabwe.Let us dismantle the scourge before it is too late. Zimbabwe is home to everyone regardless of difference in sex, race and creed. Technology / Software by Staff reporter Instant messaging application WhatsApp plans to discontinue support for its service on older smartphone systems such as BlackBerry and Nokia.In a blog post on the weekend, WhatsApp said it will kill support for its app on the following operating systems by the end of 2016: BlackBerry (including BlackBerry 10), Nokia S40, Nokia Symbian S60, Android 2.1 and Android 2.2 and Windows Phone 7.1."While these mobile devices have been an important part of our story, they don't offer the kind of capabilities we need to expand our app's features in the future," said WhatsApp."This was a tough decision for us to make, but the right one in order to give people better ways to keep in touch with friends, family, and loved ones using WhatsApp."If you use one of these affected mobile devices, we recommend upgrading to a newer Android, iPhone, or Windows Phone before the end of 2016 to continue using WhatsApp," said WhatsApp.WhatsApp made the announcement a few days after the app turned seven years old."As we look ahead to our next seven years, we want to focus our efforts on the mobile platforms the vast majority of people use," said the company.Android and Apple devices dominate today's smartphone market. Field and grass fires have been burning in Graves, McCracken, Calloway Counties Advertisement By Chris Skates Feb. 29, 2016 | PADUCAH, KY By Chris Skates Feb. 29, 2016 | 11:48 AM | PADUCAH, KY I have said that the people of this country, if ever they lose their liberties, will do it by sacrificing some great principle of government to temporary passion. There are certain great principles, which if they be not held inviolate, at all seasons, our liberty is gone. John Randolph 1813. If you are an evangelical Christian reading this, you base your life on principles. Your guiding principles come from the Bible, which you believe to be the living Word of God. Yet though the Bible ALWAYS speaks truly, it does not attempt to speak comprehensively on all matters. It does not speak comprehensively for example on all matters relating to government. For those we need an outside or auxiliary set of principles (based on the Judeo-Christian ethic to be sure). In the US those principles are outlined in our founding documents, most notably in the Constitution. The core reason that the US has a culture in the midst of rot, our foreign policy is a haphazard shambles, and our economy is as weak as its been in decades (mythical recovery notwithstanding) is because the people we have sent to Washington, not only do not respect founding principles and the constitution, they literally have no familiarity with them or the hard and fast truths they contain. And then there is Ted Cruz. Cruzs father Rafael escaped torture at the hands of Fidel Castro, came to America to wash dishes at minimum wage, and over a period of years built a successful business. Rafael (as only an immigrant who has seen the extreme left up close can) drilled into his son one truthonly in America. Only in America could a poor immigrant, within a couple of decades, build a successful business, become a citizen, and raise a family. Copies of both the Constitution and the Bible were constantly out on the familys kitchen table. In high school Ted participated in speaking competitions for scholarship money with the Free Enterprise Institute. These efforts required Cruz to spend Saturdays delving deeply into free market principles and the Constitution. By the time he was nineteen Cruz had the Constitution memorized. By then he had given some 80 speeches on constitutional principles to Kiwanis, Rotary Clubs, and other civic gatherings. From this experience he determined he wanted to serve in government. He pursued an Ivy League education by working two jobs and receiving academic scholarships. His father Rafaels greatest concern was that Ted would lose his conservative roots and be pulled far toward a far left ideology by these institutions. Instead Ted respectfully debated with his liberal professors throughout his education even winning the respect of the formidable (and very liberal) Alan Dershowitz. You may know the rest. Cruz went on to become an honor graduate from Princeton and Harvard Law, clerked for Chief Justice Rehnquist, became Solicitor General for Texas where he argued nine landmark cases before the US Supreme Court (winning five) and filed some eighty briefs with SCOTUS. One unfair criticism I hear of Cruz is that he is a politician. In turn I am told that primary voters are tired of politicians and want an outsider. Does a single term as a US Senator wherein Cruz has thrown one uppercut after another at what he rightly calls the Washington Cartel (including members in, and the leadership of, his own party) make him by some perversion of the term an insider? Upon what basis will Trump make decisions as President that will make America great again? As Cruz has already pointed out, Trump has no idea what made America great in the first place. Trump has said it himself repeatedly; he can agree with either side and has donated to either side. What good does that do a nation in crisis when one side (the liberal Democrat) is dead wrong on almost every issue? Trump is highly malleable precisely because of his ignorance of founding principles. The waters we are in are roiling. The next President will need a strong anchor chain tied to principles that have withstood the test of time. He will need not only a passing familiarity with these principles but a deep and abiding knowledge of them. He will need to have based his life upon them. Conservatives have not had such a choice in decades. Now they have Ted Cruz. I pray that more voters will resist the siren call of a so-called tough guy who bases his decisions on his own temporary passions at any particular moment. Because they are by now second nature to him, Ted Cruz is a leader who can readily draw on the highly educated lessons of our forebears. By this unprincipled facility of changing the state as often, and as much, and in as many ways as there are floating fancies or fashions, the whole chain and continuity of the commonwealth would be broken. No one generation could link with the other. Men would become little better than the flies of summer. Edmund Burke. Chris Skates is Supervisor of Lab Services at a Midwest utility; he has 27 years of experience in both fossil fueled and nuclear power generation. He is an Adjunct Scholar with The Cornwall Alliance for The Stewardship of Creation. Chris is also the author of dozens of nationally published articles in a diverse collection of publications including magazines like, Turkey Call, Electric Light and Power, American Coal, and Southern Writers. He has extensive public speaking experience on energy, political, and social issues and has presented multiple lectures around the country and has published three novels. By West Kentucky Star Staff Feb. 29, 2016 | 12:24 PM | MAYFIELD, KY The wet/dry election for the City of Mayfield will be held this summer. Graves County Judge-Executive Jesse Perry on Monday set June 28 as the date for the special election. Last week, members of the group Yes for Mayfield turned in a petition to Graves County Clerk Barry Kennemore. At that time, Kennemore said he would need to certify 424 of the signatures for a special election to be held. He certified 455 of them. Kennemore said the special election will cost taxpayers between $12,000-$15,000. Mayfield already allows liquor by-the-drink sales. Wet campaigns in Mayfield have been defeated in 1992, 1983 and 1934. In January, Graves County voters voted against allowing packaged alcohol sales within county lines. By The Associated Press By The Associated Press Feb. 28, 2016 | 06:07 PM | EDDYVILLE, KY State Police say an inmate who escaped the Western Kentucky Correctional Complex near Eddyville has been caught. Kentucky State Police said in a news release Sunday that Lostia M. Shreves of Cecilia was found at a vacant residence in the Flint Hill area. Trooper Jeff Gregory says Shreves was arrested without incident and faces burglary charges. She is being held in the Hardin County Detention Center. She was reported missing on Feb. 17 after prison staff conducted a head count. By West Kentucky Star Staff Feb. 29, 2016 | 12:46 PM | MURRAY, KY A domestic disturbance over the weekend in Murray led to one man's arrest on assault and other charges. According to the Murray Police Department, officers responded Sunday morning to 1502A Stadium Drive regarding a domestic disturbance complaint. A woman told officers that her boyfriend had hit her several times and stabbed her in the arm with a pocket knife. The boyfriend, 50-year-old Samuel Bell of Murray, remained inside the home. According to police, when Bell answered the door, he was naked and took an aggressive stance at officers. Police said Bell refused commands to get on the ground and resisted arrest. Officers used a taser and Bell was taken into custody without further incident. Bell was lodged in the Calloway County Jail on charges of assault 2nd degree and resisting arrest. The woman was transported to Murray-Calloway County Hospital for treatment of her injuries. How To Enjoy A Weekend Away On A Budget Going away on a budget doesnt have to be difficult. With the right tips in mind, you will be able to have the most View Post You could drown in Don Warrington's voice. It's about as mellifluous as a songbird in love. Deep, with a discrete posh edge to it, his measured and careful tone gives everything he says weight. He sounds as though he's the wisest man in the world. But, according to Warrington, wisdom may not be his strong point: the decision to accept his latest role is, he says, "really crazy". "It looks like a really stupid thing to do," he tells me. "When you stand back from it, you think: why?" Why indeed. Why would you say yes to performing the bruised, unhappy vulnerable king whose daughters are making him mad and who has to rant and rave for an alarmingly long amount of stage time? Why would anyone take on the huge challenge of one of the greatest roles in Shakespeare's canon? Anyone would hesitate. And Warrington certainly did. He always does, he says, which is surprising, when you think of the career he has had. There's been an impressive first role in Rising Damp on TV which went on to win Baftas, a part in the BBC's Death in Paradise, the classic House of Cards trilogy, C.A.T.S. Eyes on TV. He's been the face of the Kenco coffee advert and let's not forget his countless stage appearances, which include the critically acclaimed Talawa Theatre production of All My Sons in 2013. "I kept it a secret that I wanted to act" And yet for all his experience, Warrington is surprisingly self deprecating. He credits Sarah Frankcom, artistic director of Manchester Royal Exchange, for asking him to do King Lear. "I think that was a very brave step for her: a statement about her confidence in her judgement, and me. I was very flattered by that." Despite his successes, Warrington is endearingly (and unnecessarily) unsure of himself. But he's in a safe pair of hands with Michael Buffong, artistic director of Talawa who directed him in All My Sons. "Working with a director is like a romance. You go on your first date and see how you do, then you get a bit closer," he says, "Every play you do with a director you develop a relationship with that person. It's about how well we dance together." Their relationship is "different, somehow" to what it was on All My Sons. It's still early in the rehearsal process with the show itself, but Warrington has been gearing up for the role for a while now, "I've spent a long time basically trying to learn the words. I've been thinking about it for the last year." His take on Lear is that he's acutely aware of the closeness of death. "He is a man who is aware of losing his power. He can feel death tapping on his shoulder. That's to do with age and his grasp on reality slipping," he says. "I suspect he's aware of the approach of some form of senility." Warrington will be the first black British actor to play King Lear in a large scale production in more than 20 years. After a recent study launched by Warwick University which found BAME actors are often overlooked for lead roles in Shakespeare, I ask Warrington if he's come across challenges in the theatre world. "We are, in the end, reflective of the way we live. So if we have a problem in theatre, it means we have a problem somewhere else... We need to look at how we live and what we exclude. That's the big question here, it's about exclusion. "We do have to look at our institutions, that's the core of it, they must not be mausoleums, they have to be to do with how we are now." "Strictly was not something that fitted well with my personality" Born in Trinidad, Warrington moved to Newcastle with his family at a young age. Acting was a secret passion: "I kept it a secret until I was ready to say: this is what I wanted to do." It wasn't that he was discouraged by his parents, but when he first mentioned that he might like to be an actor to a school teacher they "smiled at me and walked off." Rising Damp was his first stage and TV role (it was a play, before it was a programme). "People forget that when the show started critics in particular hated it. It became a success, but it had to fight its way through," he says. "It was a huge surprise to me." Most of Warrington's friends were in rep while he was filming, so he was keen to get onto the boards. Fast forward to 2008 and he's on our screens in Strictly Come Dancing. "I loved learning to dance. But I didn't realise what the show was or how big it was. Was it fun? No. It's not something that fitted particularly well with my personality," he explains. "I don't think I'm very good at the razzamatazz. I was slightly embarrassed. The show calls for a lot of kahunas." But Warrington, though he is apprehensive, will feel happier by far onstage in King Lear. Despite his initial hesitations, he enjoys being in the show once it has started. "When you're in it, it's a really different experience," he says. "You know you're awake." King Lear runs at the Royal Exchange Manchester from 1 April to 7 May and then tours. A study by scientist Evan Mills, with the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, revealed that legalized indoor marijuana-growing operations account for 1% of total electricity use in the US, at a cost of $6bn per year. Annually, such consumption produces 15m tons of greenhouse gas emissions (CO2), equal to that of three million average cars. In 2012, Colorado became the first state to legalize recreational marijuana. Two years later, Denvers 362 marijuana grow facilities consumed more than 2% of the citys electricity usage. Statewide facilities are behind roughly half of Colorados new power demands. Cannabis growers are moving slowly toward energy efficient practices, largely out of fear for how changes might affect the quality of their product. They approach these things with a great deal of caution, especially when you talk about things that have a crop-wide effect, said Ron Flax, sustainability examiner for Boulder County, Colorado. Each crop cycle has a lot of dollars associated with it, so theyre really hesitant to try something new and hope it works. But theyre also paying very high utility bills. Flax said electricity represented roughly 20% of the total cost of a cannabis operation. In Boulder County during the second quarter of 2015, a 5,000 square foot indoor cannabis facility was eating about 29,000 kilowatt hours (kWh) of electricity monthly. A local household in the county was consuming about 630kWh. Given cannabis appetite for energy coupled with Colorados mostly coal-fired power plants Boulder County has required commercial cannabis growers to either offset their electricity use with renewable energy, or pay a 2c charge per kWh. As pot use has become legal, medicinal or otherwise, the growing of it has grown into a fairly large business with yoooge power needs because it is all done indoors to insure quality control.Wind and solar additions to the modern grow houses would certainly alleviate the strain on the power grid but there is some irony for you. Solar panels above and wind turbines beside a facility that uses artificial light and ventilation to grow plants. But at least we know it will be goood shit. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/02/2016 (2427 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The Winnipeg Jets have placed defenceman Adam Pardy on waivers. Pardy played in 14 games with the Jets this season, notching one assist. He played a total of 129 games over the past three seasons with Winnipeg. He has one goal for the Jets, coming during last years playoffs. He also has 16 regular-season assists. Chris Carlson / The Associated Press Winnipeg Jets defenceman Adam Pardy Pardy was previously placed on waivers by the Jets in 2013. He cleared and was reassigned to the Jets AHL affiliate in St. Johns at the time. Pardy, 31, has a current salary of US$1 million and is set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA The Liberal governments Syrian resettlement program hit a milestone over the weekend with the arrival of the 25,000th Syrian refugee. Heres a by-the-numbers look at the program and its various moving targets: 25,000: Number of government-assisted Syrian refugees the Liberals originally promised during the federal election campaign to resettle themselves by the end of 2015, if elected; private sponsors would be expected to do more. 25,000: Total number of Syrian refugees, both government-assisted and privately sponsored, the Liberal government set out to resettle between Nov. 4, 2015, and Feb. 26, 2016, under the plan that was rolled out once they took office. 25,080: Total number of Syrian refugees who have arrived in Canada as of Feb. 27. 10,000: Number who were initially expected to be privately sponsored. 8,527: Privately sponsored refugees who have arrived in Canada as of Feb. 27. 15,000: Number who were initially expected to be government assisted. 14,383: Government assisted refugees who have arrived in Canada as of Feb. 27. 2,170: Number of refugees from a program that blends the two streams who have arrived in Canada as of Feb. 27. 25,000: Total number of government-assisted Syrian refugees the Liberal government says it will bring to Canada by the end of 2016. $678 million: estimated maximum total cost of the program. SOURCE: Department of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA Foreign Affairs Minister Stephane Dion is being urged to challenge the membership of rights abusers such as Saudi Arabia and Venezuela on the controversial United Nations Human Rights Council. Dion is in Geneva on Monday as the council convenes to mark its 10th anniversary, a milestone that some critics say is shrouded in ignominy. The 47-member council has several members that have poor human rights records a list that also includes China, Russia, Vietnam, Algeria, Ethiopia, Nigeria and Panama. Minister of Foreign Affairs Stephane Dion responds to a question during question period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Feb. 16, 2016. Foreign Affairs Minister Stephane Dion is being urged to challenge the membership of rights abusers such as Saudi Arabia and Venezuela on the controversial United Nations Human Rights Council. Dion is in Geneva on Monday as the council convenes to mark its 10th anniversary, a milestone that some critics say is shrouded in ignominy. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick The non-governmental organization UN Watch urged Dion to get tough on the council, noting Canada could specifically target Venezuela in particular for condemnation because it is not as influential as China or Russia. Dion recently announced a $15-million contribution to the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, and said Canada wants to re-engage with it as part of the Liberal governments broader embrace of the UN. UN Watch director Hillel Neuer said he hopes Dion continues the tough stand of the previous Conservative government against the council. The bottom line is if Canada holds the abusers to account and engages in a meaningful way and tries to lead, that will be a good thing, Neuer said in an interview. He noted that the previous Liberal government of Paul Martin voted against Libyas election in 2003 as the president of the councils predecessor, the United Nations Human Rights Commission, because of the shoddy rights record of its president, Moammar Gadhafi. Thats moral leadership. Its not a Conservative issue or a Liberal issue, said Neuer. Canada recognizes the shortcomings of the council, but also believes the only way to improve it is by engaging it directly, said Joseph Pickerill, a spokesman for Dion. The idea that, If its not what we want or isnt perfect, we pull out, has been a mistake and hasnt advanced Canadas foreign policy interests, Pickerill said. Our role is to raise the level of debate, defend our values, protect our friends and allies and chart a better course for human rights everywhere. You cant do that from the outside. The previous Conservative government was highly critical of the council because it provided a forum for dictatorial regimes to criticize Canada and also allowed Arab countries to pursue anti-Israeli resolutions. Conservative foreign affairs critic Tony Clement said the government should be engaging with countries that have poor human rights records, but Dion should be cautious not to confer any sense of legitimacy on them. The council has had controversy in the past because the people that tend to head its committees have some of worst human rights records on the planet, Clement said. Neuer said that although it is not a member of the council, Canada could still try to put forth a motion as an observer state, and he suggested targeting Venezuela because, we know how powerful the Chinese and Russians are, while the government of Nicolas Maduro in Caracas is struggling. The Human Rights Council replaced the Human Rights Commission in 2006, which faced similiar criticism, but little has changed, said Neuer. He said his organization analyzed the membership of the two rights bodies over the last 15 years and found that 62 per cent of the countries that served were dictatorships or authoritarian regimes. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA There are now just over 25,000 Syrian refugees whove arrived in Canada since the Liberal government rolled out its $678-million plan for refugee resettlement in November that targeted having that many people here by the end of this month. Here are five things to know about the program: 1. Its not what the Liberals promised during the campaign. Initially, they said they would bring 25,000 Syrians to Canada by the end of 2015 under the government-assisted refugee program that sees the government take on the full cost of a persons resettlement for a full year. The Liberal campaign platform said they would work with private sponsors to do even more. But under the formal plan rolled out after they took office, they pushed back the deadline to resettle that many government-assisted refugees to the end of 2016. They then set a new target of resettling 25,000 people in total by the end of February 2016. Syrian refugees Jamil Haddad, left, and Tony Batekh, 2nd left, George Louka and Edmon Artin, right, have some fun while they attend French classes at a school Wednesday, February 17, 2016 in Montreal. There are now just over 25,000 Syrian refugees who've arrived in Canada since the Liberal government rolled out its $678-million plan for refugee resettlement in November that targeted having that many people here by the end of this month. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz 2. How many privately sponsored Syrian refugees will be accepted to Canada remains unknown. While the government has set a target number for Syrians theyll support, theyve not yet set a cap on how many private sponsorship applications theyll accept. As of Feb. 27, there were 8,527 Syrians in Canada with private sponsors and applications continue to be received by government. 3. There are more than 25,000 Syrians here. The previous Conservative government had also accepted Syrian refugees, albeit on a smaller scale and in a program that was over a much longer timeline. Their original program was to resettle 1,500 between summer 2013 and the end of 2014, but that goal was not met until March 2015. In January 2015, they pledged to accept 10,000 more over three years. Between Jan. 1, 2014, and Nov. 3, 2015, 3,089 Syrian refugees arrived in Canada. 4. Canada is officially resettling more Syrian refugees than many other countries. An estimated 4.7 million Syrians have registered as refugees since the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011. But the UN refugee agency is not seeking permanent new homes for that many. Theyve reached out to countries to absorb about 10 per cent. Only Germany has made more official spaces formally available than Canada. Just under one million Syrians, though, have sought asylum in European countries, meaning theyve travelled on their own and have claimed refugee status upon arrival. Some have UN refugee status, some dont. Since July 2013 and until the end of last year, 1,502 Syrian nationals already in Canada have requested, and received, refugee status. 5. Syrians whove arrived in Canada mostly do not come from refugee camps. Only about 10 per cent of Syrian refugees are in formal refugee camps in the countries surrounding Syria, according to the United Nations refugee agency. The rest are living everywhere from rented apartments to farm fields. Canadas program focused on admitted refugees currently living in Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey. While they are not directly coming from camps, all have official refugee status conferred upon them by the UN; those whove been selected from that pool to come to Canada as government assisted refugees have also been deemed as being at risk where they are living now. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/02/2016 (2427 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with the premiers in Vancouver this week to discuss climate policy. The Liberal environmental platform states: We will ensure that the provinces and territories have adequate tools to design their own policies to meet these commitments, including their own carbon pricing policies. Here are five things to know about putting a price on carbon: 1. The point of carbon pricing is to charge producers and consumers for the cost of the carbon pollution they are discharging into the atmosphere, to discourage polluting behaviour, reward innovation in energy efficiency and, depending on how the system is designed, potentially to produce revenues for addressing environmental impacts. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks during a session on carbon pricing at the United Nations climate change summit, Monday November 30, 2015 in Le Bourget, France. Trudeau meets with the premiers in Vancouver this week to discuss climate policy. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld 2. Carbon pricing is done by the tonne. So whats a tonne of CO2? Its the amount of carbon produced by driving an average car 3,831 kilometres, or burning up 42 tanks of barbecue propane, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. A tonne of CO2 would be equivalent in volume to a cube roughly eight metres high, deep and wide. 3. There are many systems for carbon pricing that fall under two basic models. Carbon taxes are levied by government by setting a price per tonne on the production of greenhouse gases, typically on the sale and use of fossil fuels depending on the carbon content of the fuel. Cap-and-trade systems set economy-wide limits on emissions and then establish a carbon market, within which industries are allotted permits for emissions which they can buy and sell, with the costs passed on to consumers. 4. British Columbia is the only Canadian province that currently charges a broad-based carbon tax. Alberta is adding a carbon tax in 2017. Since 2012, B.C.s $30 per tonne tax has added 6.67 cents to each litre of gasoline purchased in the province and 7.67 cents to each litre of diesel. All revenues from the B.C. carbon tax are returned to citizens through tax cuts and low-income supplements. B.C.s revenue-neutral carbon tax has not hampered economic growth. 5. Quebec joined California in a cap-and-trade carbon market in 2014 and Ontario is set to start trading in the same market in 2017. Manitoba has said it intends to also join the same Western Climate Initiative market, which means B.C., Alberta, Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec representing 85 per cent of Canadian citizens and about 90 per cent of GDP will soon place a market price on carbon. The government of Newfoundland and Labrador also has said it intends to price carbon. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Canada is dropping behind its major trading partners in renewable energy investment, according to a study from a clean energy advocacy group. Merran Smith of Clean Energy Canada suggests government-set targets and goals for wind and solar power in regional energy grids is the best way to spur that investment and keep Canada in the game. Clean energy is taking off around the world and in the countries that we consider our markets, she said. This is really a wake-up call for Canada. Clean Energy Canada, in a report released Monday, found 2015 was a record-breaking year for investment in clean energy such as solar and wind power. Using figures from international agencies and business databases, the group found a total of $497 billion was invested in 2015. Thats a seven per cent increase from the previous year despite competition from low-priced fossil fuels. The largest chunk of that money $226 billion was spent in developing countries, the study found. About $218 billion went toward solar energy and about $150 billion was spent on wind power, the two largest types of investment. The list of countries and regions that increased spending on renewable energy is long. U.S. spending was up seven per cent. In the U.K. and India, it went up 23 per cent. China spent 17 per cent more on renewables and Mexico increased its investments by 114 per cent. Meanwhile, spending in Canada actually declined by about half, even though the country remains ranked eighth in the world in terms of absolute dollars. The reason, said Smith, is the lack of new government targets and regulations for the use of renewable energy. (Clean energy) doesnt need subsidies, it needs policies that commit to targets, Smith said. Most of the investment that resulted from Ontarios decision to purchase more renewable energy has already happened, she said. Provinces such as British Columbia havent made such promises yet and those that have, such as Alberta and Saskatchewan, have yet to come up with the details. Alberta has promised to get just under a third of its power from renewables by 2030. Saskatchewan said by that year, half its electricity is expected to come from clean sources. We need to see that translated into policy this year, Smith said. That will help boost Canadas investment. What we know is that good targets and good policy really help. The first ministers meeting on climate to be held this week in Vancouver could also help. One thing they could commit to is a clean energy plan for Canada that makes real, tangible clean energy commitments, she said. Smith said that wind and solar power are becoming cheaper and more competitive with fossil fuels. Theyre already cost-competitive in 30 countries, she said, adding that in a place such as Alberta, with large wind power potential, renewables can already compete with fossil fuels. Follow Bob Weber on Twitter at @row1960 Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. TORONTO Renowned Canadian political scientist Stephen Clarkson, a leading historian and academic authority on North American relations, has died. The University of Torontos political science department, where Clarkson taught for several decades, confirmed he died on Sunday in hospital in Freiburg, Germany. Clarkson had contracted an influenza virus in Portugal that developed into pneumonia and then an incurable sepsis, the school said. He was in Portugal on a research trip with students. He was 78. Clarksons work focused on areas including the North American Free Trade Agreement and how Canada has been affected by globalization. In 1990, he and then-wife Christina McCall won the Governor Generals Literary Award for non-fiction for Trudeau and Our Times. The second volume of that book won the J.W. Dafoe prize. In 2011, Clarkson was named a member of the Order of Canada. Stephen was a pillar of the department for many decades, said a Facebook post from U of Ts political science department. He was a great friend, a most dedicated teacher, and an indefatigable scholar. Our condolences go to Stephens wife Nora, his daughters, grandchildren and extended family. Clarkson did his graduate studies at the University of Oxford and the Paris-Sorbonne University. In 1969, he ran for mayor of Toronto. His other books included The Big Red Machine: How the Liberal Party Dominates Canadian Politics, Canada and the Reagan Challenge, and Uncle Sam and Us. Clarksons other honours included an election to the Royal Society of Canada. He was once married to former governor general Adrienne Clarkson. Stephen was devoted to his students, and he saw his teaching as the most important part of his academic life, Louis Pauly, chairman of U of Ts department of political science, said in a statement. He closely advised generations of undergraduate and graduate students. He held his students to high standards, and they reciprocated with much energy and enthusiasm. Funeral arrangements have not been announced. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Environmental activists prodded the City of Winnipeg Monday to complete a risk assessment of the Energy East pipeline before the start of National Energy Board hearings into the proposed conversion of a natural-gas conduit into an oil pipeline. In 2014, the city earmarked $1 million to study how the conversion could affect Winnipegs drinking water, given the proposed pipeline runs north of Shoal Lake, the source of the citys drinking water, and also crosses the Winnipeg Aqueduct, a gravity-powered concrete structure that carries this water from Indian Bay on Shoal Lake to the Winnipeg Water Treatment Plant in the RM of Springfield. Winnipeg has yet to conduct the risk assessment, partly because it has had trouble finding an environmental consulting firm that has not been hired already by Energy East proponent TransCanada Pipelines. On Monday, the Manitoba Energy Justice Coalition appeared before city councils environment committee to urge the city to complete the study, claiming the Province of Manitoba is relying upon it to form the basis of its own opinions about Energy East. Coalition spokesman Alex Paterson urged the city to complete the assessment as soon as possible so both the city and province can be fully engaged in future public hearings held by the National Energy Board. Its not clear whether the city will be able to make presentations at those hearings. Paterson also urged city officials to focus on a broader geographic area than merely Shoal Lake and the proposed pipeline-aqueduct crossing several kilometres east of the Whitemouth River. He said an undetected, low-level leak in the oil pipeline is far more probable than a catastrophic accident, adding such a leak could pollute water across a broad swath of eastern Manitoba, including areas where the Winnipeg Aqueduct, potentially permeable due to cracks in the concrete, is submerged below wetlands. The coalition is urging the city and province to ask TransCanada to reroute Energy East in eastern Manitoba to reduce the potential of a threat to the citys water supply. It also suggested the Public Utilities Board could hold hearings to ensure the pipeline risks are assessed independently, free of opinions commissioned by pipeline proponents and opponents. Geoff Patton, engineering services manager for Winnipegs water and waste department, said the city has assigned a project manager to the risk assessment and has made it a priority. He said the concerns raised by the anti-pipeline activists are legitimate and are included in the scope of the citys risk assessment. Paterson said he believes the city is taking the issue seriously, but said he wanted to ensure elected officials are aware of the importance of the issue. Energy East spokesman Tim Duboyce said in a statement he understands Manitobans are concerned about the pipeline. Citing a Fraser Institute study based on federal data, he said moving oil by pipeline is safer than moving it by railcar. bartley.kives@freepress.mb.ca Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Nafiya Nasos family lived next to an excellent playground and community centre but was scared to use them. We wouldnt cross the street to go to the play structure, said the resettled Yazidi refugee from Iraq. We wouldnt dare cross the street because of the Jews. Naso, her parents and siblings lived in Tuxedo across the street from the Gray Academy of Jewish Education and the Rady Jewish Community Centre and were terrified to step foot on the property. TREVOR HAGAN / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS From left, Jewish student Benji Aziza and Yazidi brothers Jalal and Farhad Naso sort donations for Yazidi refugees at a warehouse on Higgins Avenue on Sunday. We were taught so much hate against them, Naso said. For years after they moved into a townhouse in Tuxedo, the play structure and recreation facilities across the street were tantalizing but forbidden because they belonged to Jews people theyd learned to fear and hate, Naso said. In school in Syria, at the refugee camp, we were told were just like Jews monsters who lie about history, Naso said. The school she attended as a child was located in a refugee camp in Hasskah, Syria. I started when I was four years old, she said. It was run by Muslim Syrian extremists. Naso said she doesnt know if any of the extremists were certified to teach. They taught the kids Jews were devils, she said. They said the same thing about us and that were infidels. Now the two vilified and persecuted religious minorities have embraced one another in Friendly Manitoba. Winnipegs Jewish community is helping the citys 200-strong Yazidi population to sponsor the resettlement of six Yazidi refugee families here. Everythings possible, Naso said. I took my mom and little sisters to the Rady Centre and saw the security guard when you walk in. My knees were shaking and I was in tears. I said Were from Iraq. Were not Jews. My mom would like to come to the gym Nafiya Naso, on how a visit to a gymnasium began to erase years of ingrained fear and hatred She wouldnt have thought it possible 16 years ago, when her family arrived in Manitoba, that her parents might some day frequent a Jewish community centre. Her mom, Koulan Fandi and dad, Enez Jallo, were told by their doctor they needed to get more exercise and go to a gym. A neighbour told them the Rady Jewish Community Centre across the street was open to the public. They werent prepared to take a chance and go there until one day when Naso steeled herself and faced their fear. I took my mom and little sisters to the Rady Centre and saw the security guard when you walk in. My knees were shaking, and I was in tears. I said Were from Iraq. Were not Jews. My mom would like to come to the gym. Naso was struck by the reception they received. They were very nice people. They said people from all different backgrounds go there. I got my parents registered, and its the best thing thats happened to them, said Naso, who is married with children and works in a nursing home. Her school experience in Syria in which she learned to hate isnt the norm, says a teacher from Syria who came to Canada in 2015 as a refugee and was alarmed when she heard what Naso was taught. We dont teach that the people who are Jewish or Yazidi are not good or the devil, said Reem Younes in Winnipeg. Thats not allowed. She taught elementary school in two Syrian cities before fleeing to Lebanon, then Canada, with her husband Brian Darweesh, a news editor. The couple was privately sponsored by a Mennonite church in Winnipeg. Younes said she was surprised and disheartened to hear about Naso being taught in the refugee camp school in Syria to hate religious minorities. Its definitely not part of the national education curriculum even in the most conservative corners of the country, she said. TREVOR HAGAN / WINNIPEG FREE PRESS Although they are from different ethnic groups, they have a common bond: working together as the Jewish community sponsors six Yazidi families from Syria. Its the same curriculum in all of Syria, Younes said. Canadas diversity is new to many of the kids who come from places where just one culture is predominant, said Margaret von Lau who runs the downtown NEEDS Centre that prepares Syrian and other refugee children to enter the Canadian school system. We teach them if you want to be respected, then learn about other cultures and respect them as well, von Lau said. Resettlement programs for adults, such as the Entry program, immerse newcomers in classes with others from many cultures and religions. carol.sanders@freepress.mb.ca Opinion Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. In case you were wondering, this is what the beginning of the end looks like. Last week at an NDP caucus meeting, backbench MLA Dave Gaudreau experienced what could only be described as a meltdown over his partys diminishing prospects in the April 19 election. According to a Free Press report quoting numerous NDP sources, Gaudreau confronted Premier Greg Selinger about his flagging popularity. Wayne Glowacki / Winnipeg Free Press files Dave Gaudreau (right) with fellow NDP MLA Rob Altemeyer at the signing of a pledge of solidarity in March 2015. Less than year later, Gaudreau confronted Premier Greg Selinger over his low popularity. People hate you, several sources reported Gaudreau as telling Selinger. He went on to say voters seemed supportive of NDP policies, so much so that he is trying to convince voters in his riding theyre not voting for (Selinger). Theyre voting for me. But its not working. After several MLAs tried to calm him down, Gaudreau a first-term MLA who squeaked out a victory by a mere 31 votes in 2011 stormed out of the meeting. Its hardly a stretch to say that what Gaudreau is experiencing now is pure, unadulterated panic. And not without good reason. Heading into this election, the NDP has sunk to levels of unpopularity not seen in more than two decades. Not only does the NDP seem unable to offer much of an alternative to the poll-leading Progressive Conservatives, but some surveys have the Liberals in second place. Although other caucus members did not participate in Gaudreaus tantrum, there is plenty of evidence to suggest they share his concern. More and more NDP candidates are hearing first-hand their efforts to position themselves as the party to beat the Tories and their leader, Brian Pallister, are being undermined by the fact they are being led by an unpopular leader. That is apparently coming as a shock to some of those candidates, although its hard to imagine why. A year ago, Gaudreau was one of a number of MLAs who supported Selinger at a leadership convention prompted when five dissident cabinet ministers publicly called for the premier to step down. After Infrastructure Minister Steve Ashton dropped out of the race, Gaudreau threw his support behind Selinger, who ultimately beat Theresa Oswald in a close final ballot. Following the leadership convention, Gaudreau was a major instigator of efforts to punish and shame the five dissident ministers. Along with a handful of other Selinger supporters, Gaudreau helped create an atmosphere that all but ensured the rebels would leave the party. There were efforts to exact apologies from the dissidents, and demands they sign pledges never to discuss caucus business in public. Not surprisingly, of the original five dissidents, only one (Andrew Swan) remains a candidate in the upcoming election. At first blush, it is difficult to understand how Gaudreau could suddenly come to the realization Selinger is a liability for the party. Concerns about how badly the premiers personal popularity lagged behind the party were at the heart of efforts to remove him as leader. Gaudreau and others may have objected to the way the dissidents expressed their lack of support for Selinger, but surely someone was paying attention to their underlying argument that the NDPs best chance for re-election would come with a new leader and a rebooted party brand. And now, confronted by angry voters who find value in the NDP platform but doubt the man leading the party, that underlying argument is coming into focus. It may be part of the shock comes from the fact many Selinger supporters believed there was time after the leadership vote to rehabilitate his brand. If the party falls short of that goal on election day, it will not have been for lack of effort. The last year has been a deliberate exercise in restoring some of Selingers brand by making him the face, and voice, of the party at every turn. Selinger has stepped in to make announcements and do interviews for many of his cabinet ministers, an obvious bid to get him maximum exposure and attach him to as many positive announcements as possible. The recent release of an apologetic pre-election advertistment the one in which Selinger admits we havent always gotten it right is consistent with a strategy to make the premier seem more human and perhaps more likeable. Deliberate strategy or not, two things have become clear at this stage of the pre-writ period. First, if the reaction that Gaudreau and other candidates are getting on the doorstep is real, the effort to rehabilitate Selingers brand has not been successful. Second, the NDP has likely run out of time to fix this fatal flaw in its bid for re-election. For much of the last year, whenever an MLA or prospective candidate expressed some anxiety about their re-election hopes, they were told it was not the time to panic; that there was enough time before the campaign started to generate goodwill between Selinger and the electorate. And that ultimately, NDP policies would triumph in a head-to-head battle with the Tories. And while it might not yet be time to panic, its getting perilously close. dan.lett@freepress.mb.ca Opinion Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/02/2016 (2427 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. In case you were wondering, this is what the beginning of the end looks like. Last week at a NDP caucus meeting, backbench MLA Dave Gaudreau experienced what could only be described as a complete meltdown over his partys diminishing prospects in the April 19 provincial election. According to a Free Press report quoting numerous NDP sources, Gaudreau confronted Premier Greg Selinger about his flagging popularity. People hate you, several sources reported that Gaudreau told Selinger. He went on to say voters seemed supportive of NDP policies, so much so that he is trying to convince voters in his riding that theyre not voting for (Selinger). Theyre voting for me. But its not working. After several MLAs tried to calm him down, Gaudreau stormed out of the meeting. Its hardly a stretch to say what Gaudreau is experiencing now is pure, unadulterated panic. And not without good reason. Heading into this election, the NDP has sunk to levels of unpopularity not seen in more than two decades. Not only does the NDP seem unable to offer much of an alternative to the poll-leading Progressive Conservatives, but some surveys have the surprising Liberals in second place. Although other caucus members did not participate in Gaudreaus tantrum, there is plenty of evidence to suggest they share his concern. More and more NDP candidates are hearing firsthand that their efforts to position themselves as the party to beat the Tories and their leader, Brian Pallister, are being undermined by the fact they are being led by an unpopular leader. That is apparently coming as a shock to some of those candidates, although its hard to imagine why. A year ago, Gaudreau was one of a number of MLAs who supported Selinger at a showdown leadership convention prompted when five dissident cabinet ministers publicly called for the premier to step down. After Infrastructure Minister Steve Ashton dropped out of the race, Gaudreau threw his support behind Selinger, who would ultimately beat Theresa Oswald in a very close final ballot. Following the leadership convention, Gaudreau was a major instigator of efforts to punish and shame the five dissident ministers. Along with a handful of other Selinger supporters, Gaudreau helped create an atmosphere that all but ensured the rebels would leave the party. There were efforts to exact apologies from the dissidents, and demands they sign pledges never to discuss caucus business in public. Not surprisingly, of the original five dissidents, only one (Andrew Swan) remains a candidate in the upcoming election. At first blush, it is difficult to understand how Gaudreau could suddenly come to the realization that Selinger is a net liability for the party. Concerns about how badly the premiers personal popularity lagged behind the party were at the heart of efforts to remove him as party leader. Gaudreau and others may have objected to the way the dissidents expressed their lack of support for Selinger, but surely someone was paying attention to their underlying argument that the NDPs best chance for re-election would come with a new leader and a rebooted party brand. And now, confronted by angry voters who seem to find value in the NDP platform but doubt the man leading the party, that underlying argument is now coming into focus. It may be that part of the shock comes from the fact many Selinger supporters believed there was time after the leadership vote to rehabilitate his brand. If the governing party falls short of that goal on election day, it will not have been for lack of effort. The last year has been a deliberate exercise in restoring some of Selingers brand by making him the face, and voice, of the party at every turn. Selinger has stepped in to make announcements and do interviews for many of his cabinet ministers, an obvious bid to get him maximum exposure and attach him to as many positive announcements as possible. The recent release of an apologetic pre-election advertistment the one in which Selinger admits we havent always gotten it right is consistent with a strategy to make the premier seem more human, and perhaps more likeable. Deliberate stratregy or not, two things have become clear at this stage of the pre-writ period: first, if the reaction that Gaudreau and other candidates are getting on the doorstep is real, the effort to rehabilitate Selingers brand has not been successful; and second, the NDP has likely run out of time to fix this fatal flaw in its re-election bid. For much of the last year, whenever a MLA or prospective candidate expressed some anxiety about their re-election hopes, they were told it was not the time to panic; that there was enough time left before the campaign started to generate some goodwill between the premier and the electorate. And that ultimately, NDP policies would triumph in a head-to-head battle with the Tories. And while it might not yet be time to panic, its getting perilously close. dan.lett@freepress.mb.ca Thirteen Winona Senior High students competed on Friday, Feb. 19, at the 63rd annual Southeastern Minnesota and Western Wisconsin Regional Science and Engineering Fair held at Saint Marys University. Students competed for ribbons and a variety of special awards, including trips to the state science fair in April and the International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) to be held in May in Phoenix, Arizona. WSHS was represented by nine individual projects and two team projects. All blue ribbons advance to the Minnesota Academy of Science State Science and Engineering Fair on April 3-5 to be held at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Bloomington, Minn. The symposium paper competition will be held April 2-3 at the same location. The students have worked hard on showing the region that Winona Senior High School does great work in science. These students will continue their pursuit of solving their scientific problem as they now travel to the state and international science fairs. Congratulations on representing their school and our community as outstanding scientific citizens. Good luck in future competitions. A Buffalo County man was injured in a motorcycle crash Saturday afternoon in Wabasha County. David A. Baumann, 55, of Mondovi, Wis., was eastbound on state Hwy. 60 near County Road 281 about 4:45 p.m. when he lost control of his motorcycle and ran off the road, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. Baumann suffered injuries that were not believed to be life-threatening and was transported to St. Elizabeths Hospital in Wabasha, the Patrol said. Alcohol was not a factor, and Baumann was wearing a helmet. The Wabasha Fire Department, Wabasha Ambulance, and Wabasha County Sheriffs Department assisted at the scene. Although its not as decked out and decadent, Winona had its own version of the Oscars Sunday night with the 11th annual Frozen River Film Festival awards ceremony, held at the Winona County History Center. The mood was mellow, the lights were dim, and the piano playing in the background added a mellifluous rhythm as people socialized before the ceremony started. Mayor Mark Peterson stepped to the podium and gave a warm opening statement to begin the night. This is one of so many good things going on here in Winona, Peterson said. We dont have a lot of land, but we do have a good quality of life and culture. Crystal Hegge, Frozen River Film Festival director, gave an opening statement after Mayor Peterson that was more heartfelt and emotional. Its been a difficult year, Hegge said. Two important members passed away recently. In December Bernadette Mahfood, partnership director and one of the founders of FRFF, passed away after a brief battle with pancreatic cancer. In January Maggy Jacqmin, another FRFF founder, died after a battle with colon cancer. Hegge finished by saying that shes grateful to be working with the people shes surrounded by within FRFF, and then announced the award winners of this years festival. Mike Kennedy, FRFF board chair, said Mahfood and Jacqmin were a huge reason why the FRFF is what it is today. They really helped instill the culture of this festival, Kennedy said, I thought this years festival turned out excellent. Kennedy said 125 documentaries were screened this year and 70 films were showed, coming from all over the country and all around the world. We can learn from people, Kennedy said. Our mission is to engage, educate and activate people. He also said that keynote speakers and Q & As are important because they engage and inspire the audience. He said that it was great to have someone like Frederick Ndabaramiye, the Rwandan genocide survivor, because hearing his story was so powerful and inspiring, and people need to hear stories like that. Theres not many festivals like this in cities of 20 to 30 thousand people, Kennedy said, so this is pretty special. Our mission is to engage, educate and activate people. Mike Kennedy, FRFF board chair Coroner IDs Washington gunman and 3 of 4 victims SEATTLE Mason County Coroner Wes Stockwell on Saturday identified David Wayne Campbell, 51, as the man who shot and killed himself Friday in front of police who said they tried for more than three hours to get him to surrender. Three of the victims were identified as Campbell's wife of six years, Lana J. Carlson, 49, and her sons, Quinn and Tory Carlson, who were 16 and 18, respectively. Stockwell said he was withholding the identity of the fourth victim pending notification of relatives. Nuke chief: running out of time to begin updating nukes VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, California The commander of U.S. nuclear war-fighting forces says time is running out to begin modernizing nuclear weapons that are reaching the end of their useful lives. In the words of Navy Admiral Cecil Haney, who heads U.S. Strategic Command, "we're at the brick wall stage." He says there is little room left to extend the life of weapons such as the Minuteman 3 intercontinental ballistic missile, which has been operating since 1970. UC Berkeley alerts 80,000 to cyberattack BERKELEY, Calif. The University of California, Berkeley says a hacker broke into a computer system holding financial data of 80,000 students, alumni, current and former employees. The university said Friday that although there is no evidence that any information has been stolen, it has notified potential victims of the breach so they can watch for signs of possible misuse of their personal data. UN science report warns of fewer bees, other pollinators WASHINGTON Many species of wild bees, butterflies and other critters that pollinate plants are shrinking toward extinction, and the world needs to do something about it before our food supply suffers, a new United Nations scientific mega-report warns. The 20,000 or so species of pollinators are key to hundreds of billions of dollars' worth of crops each year from fruits and vegetables to coffee and chocolate. Yet 2 out of 5 species of invertebrate pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, are on the path toward extinction, said the first-of-its-kind report. Native Hawaiian group adopts constitution HONOLULU A constitutional convention of Native Hawaiians on Friday adopted a governing document that will go out to a vote for ratification, the organization behind the gathering announced. The document allows room for recognition by the U.S. government while holding out for the possibility of independence, said Na'I Aupuni, a nonprofit organization that says on its website it's dedicated to "establish a path for Hawaiian self determination." Thousands stranded as Greece becomes a migrant 'warehouse' ATHENS, Greece Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed not to allow. Hastily setup camps for refugees and other migrants are full. About 20,000 migrants were in Greece on Thursday, Defense Minister Panos Kammenos said. Of those, Macedonia allowed just 100 people to cross over from Greece's Idomeni border area. By late Friday, not a single migrant had crossed into Macedonia that day, while 4,900 people waited nearby in heavy rain, according to Greek police. Early election results point to gains by Iranian moderates TEHRAN, Iran Partial election results in Iran on Saturday point to major gains by reformists and moderates who favor expanding freedoms and engaging with the West, and who defended the recently implemented nuclear deal with world powers against opposition from hard-liners. Friday's election was the first since last summer's agreement was finalized, lifting international economic sanctions in exchange for Iran curbing its nuclear program. Cameroon frees several hundred hostages from Boko Haram YAOUNDE, Cameroon Cameroon says it has joined Nigerian troops fighting Boko Haram extremists to free a Nigerian border town, liberating several hundred hostages in the process. Gen. Jacob Kodji, commander of Cameroon troops, told The Associated Press in a telephone interview Saturday that the hostages included young girls who were being trained as suicide bombers. Zimbabweans mark Mugabe's 92nd birthday MASVINGO, Zimbabwe Calling Robert Mugabe "dear father," ''his royal highness," and "the Moses of Africa" members of Zimbabwe's ruling party reasserted their loyalty to the longtime leader at the celebration of his recent 92nd birthday. Mugabe has ruled since 1980. During the televised event, school children performed military drills and recited poetry praising Mugabe and criticizing western nations. Brittany Maynard is the human face of the proposition that Americans who are threatened by a terminal illness should have more freedom to choose the time, place and manner of their own deaths. In April 2014, Maynard was diagnosed with grade 4 glioblastoma, a form of brain cancer, and given only six months to live. With no hope for a cure, she began to prepare to die. By October, she announced that she had checked off the last item on her bucket list, a visit to the Grand Canyon. Death by brain cancer is often a prolonged, painful and undignified experience, so Maynard moved, with her family, from California to Oregon, one of three states with death with dignity laws that permit a physician to assist a terminal patient end her life. Which is what Maynard did, on Nov. 1, 2014. In her final Facebook post, Maynard said goodbye to family and friends and then: Today is the day I have chosen to pass away with dignity in the face of my terminal illness, this terrible brain cancer that has taken so much from me but would have taken so much more. Maynards story is a sad one. She was young only 29 and she appears to have been the type of person who would have made the best of her life. But she was nearly out of choices. So she made the best choice in her mind that she could, sparing herself and her family a prolonged, painful death. Not everyone agrees, and laws that permit physician-assisted suicide are still a very hard sell in the United States. This is understandable. Brittany Maynards story strongly supports more choice in dying, but what about the case of Jeffrey Spector? Last May, Spector, 54, travelled from his home in Britain to Zurich, where he had a last meal with his family, and then checked into the clinic of an organization called Dignitas and had himself put to death, against the wishes of his wife and three young daughters. Spector wasnt terminally ill, but he had lived for six years with an inoperable tumor that had wrapped itself around his spinal cord and threatened him at any time with quadriplegia, a state of helplessness that this active man believed would have been insufferable. Instead, he chose to die. Euthanasias slippery slope gets treacherous quickly. Last week HBOs Vice reported on the liberal assisted-suicide laws in the Netherlands, which dont require a terminal diagnosis. Thus we find ourselves inside the cozy, bookshelf-lined home of a pleasant, cheerful Dutch woman in her 60s, on the day before her death. She was not physically ill, but, contrary to appearances, she had suffered from irresolvable depression for decades. Her children are grown and on their own. She simply no longer wanted to live. The next day, the laws of the Netherlands accommodated her. It can get even more complicated: Last week, Charles Lane, writing in the Washington Post, reported on the case of a Dutch psychiatric patient known as 2014-77. As a child he suffered from neglect and abuse and by age 10 had been diagnosed with autism. His life was miserable for two decades and he attempted suicide repeatedly. More treatment was attempted, but finally doctors complied with his request to end his life. Perhaps we can distill some principles out of all this complexity: (1) The clarity and humanity of a case like Brittany Maynards shouldnt obscure the moral and ethical dangers of assisted suicide. (2) Europeans deserve credit for attempting to deal realistically with the hopelessness, helplessness and desperation that many feel at the end of life. (3) Society has an obligation to spend resources to mitigate the psychological and physical distress that causes nearly 120 Americans to commit suicide every day. (4) Physical illness is not the only condition that makes life seem no longer worth living. And (5) while others have a stake in our choices, a dearly held right should be the privilege of deciding not only how we live, but how we die. On Sept. 27, my husband and I traveled to Art and Helen Tanderups farm. They were hosting a concert at their northeast Nebraska farm. This wasnt just any concert. Art and Helen are in a fight to save their family farm. People from all walks of life were there ranchers, farmers, native leaders. Local folks formed a group called Bold Nebraska, native peoples founded the Indigenous Environmental Network and the Cowboy Indian Alliance emerged again. All of these groups banded together with one goal in mind stop the TransCanada pipeline. Art and Helen, along with other rural landowners, have a personal stake in all of this. The Keystone XL pipeline would cross right through their land. So, on a beautiful September day, more than 7,800 people came to lend their support to keep TransCanada out of Nebraska and other states along the proposed route. Willie Nelson, Lukas Nelson (Willies son), Neil Young, and other local and native artists came to give their support. Native leaders, along with ranchers and farmers, spoke of the consequences to their land and water if the pipeline gets approved. Beneath the proposed route lies the Ogallala Aquifer. It not only supplies water for irrigation but also drinking water for a large portion of the heartland. It has been six years since TransCanada first proposed this pipeline. The pipeline has yet to be built. All of us have a say in what kind of world we want to leave for our children and grandchildren. We all live in areas where our air, land and water are at risk from questionable industries. Show your concern and get involved. Fight to safeguard your land, air and water. It was such an inspiration to see people in their 20s all the way up to 80s come together to oppose the pipeline. We the people can make a profound difference. I was witness to that on Sept. 27. ST. PAUL, Minn. Despite competing spending priorities and political pushback, Gov. Mark Dayton isnt relenting in his push to expand Minnesotas early education programs. Lt. Gov. Tina Smith signaled to The Associated Press in an interview last week that some form of state-funded preschool program is still on the table this year after the administrations push faltered last session. But its just one piece in a bevy of school-minded proposals thatll be fiercely competing for limited funds the projected budget surplus has dipped by $300 million when lawmakers return to St. Paul early next month. Heres a look at what may be in the mix: UNIVERSAL PRESCHOOL Dayton and Education Minnesota, the statewide teachers union, began pushing for a voluntary, universal preschool program last year, but that failed to gain traction and was abandoned in favor of increased spending on early education scholarships and school readiness programs. Dayton said Friday that universal preschool is still among his priorities, but conceded Friday that fewer surplus dollars will make it more difficult. If were not going to expand pre-K now, I dont know when we will, he said. House Speaker Kurt Daudt and Republicans have argued such a program primarily serves to boost membership in the state teachers union and doesnt tackle the achievement gap like the targeted education spending they advocated for last session. PIECE BY PIECE A reduced surplus could make smaller, individual education proposals tough to pass in both chambers, with top lawmakers urging caution in committing the state to more ongoing funding that could overburden future legislatures. But if theres money left on the table, education advocates want to spend it. Rep. Erin Murphy, the DFLs deputy minority leader, said she thinks theres enough here to continue investing in early education programs. She said there are still kids on waiting lists for Head Start programs, affordable child care and preschool programs. Last year, the Legislature ended up increasing education spending by $525 million, with $95 million in new spending going toward early education. Rep. Jenifer Loon, Wigers education counterpart in the House, noted that, saying lawmakers already have forged a path that is working well. Prior to Fridays surplus forecast, Loon said extra funding could go to increased funding for child care tax credits or scholarships, the latter opposed by the teachers union. WHATS LEFT? While early education has dominated much of the spending conversation, other proposals will likely be put forth. Wiger and the teachers union say they want more emphasis on recruiting teachers of color and funding training and development for existing teachers. Theyd also like to see more transparency in state standardized testing. Many also have pushed for more support for full-service community schools, where schools serve as one-stop shops for academic, social and health needs such as after-school programs, medical and dental services and resource centers for both parents and students. So far, there are only two schools in Brooklyn Center and Duluth that are operating as full-service community schools. So you thought the smoke-filled room was dead? No way. It still exists, but only in the Democratic Party. And under a new name: superdelegates. Early evidence of a smoke-filled room, one of the most colorful pages in Americas political history, first appeared in a report about a 1763 meeting of the Boston Caucus: Selectmen, assessors, collectors, fire-wards and representatives are regularly chosen there before they are chosen in the town. ... There they smoke tobacco till you cannot see from one end of the garret to the other. But the term itself dates from the Republican National Convention in 1920. After convention delegates deadlocked on a nominee, a small group of Republican senators met secretly in a suite in Chicagos Blackstone Hotel in a smoke-filled room, reported the Associated Press and engineered the nomination of Warren G. Harding as the Republican Party candidate for president. The phrase has been used ever since to mean any gathering where cigar-smoking party bosses meet secretly to choose candidates. In todays Democratic Party, superdelegates may not smoke, but they still serve the same function and possess the same power: to overrule the vote of the people and dictate who the partys candidate for president will be. It is, in other words, about as un-democratic as you can possibly get. The position of superdelegate, in fact, was created by the Democratic National Committee in 1982 to safeguard against the possibility that voters might choose someone party elites consider crazy and unelectable (like Howard Dean or Bernie Sanders?), in which case party poohbahs would step in and override the popular vote. Democratic members of the United States Congress, Democratic governors, members of the Democratic National Committee and other present and former party officials are automatically recognized as superdelegates. Their numbers vary, according to the number of Democratic officeholders. But in 2016, there are 712 superdelegates, or 30 percent of the 2,382 delegates needed to win the nomination. Their power resides in the fact that superdelegates are free to vote for any candidate they want unlike delegates elected in each state, who are legally bound to support the candidate they backed in their state primary. And superdelegates have used that power effectively. In 1984, when Walter Mondale and Gary Hart were very close in pledged delegates, superdelegates threw their votes to Mondale. In 2008, Hillary Clintons chance to win the nomination sank when her superdelegates switched to candidate Barack Obama. Many Democrats now fear that superdelegates could step in and dictate the partys 2016 nominee and this year, the superdelegate deck is clearly stacked in Clintons favor. In New Hampshire, for example, Bernie Sanders won 60 percent of the vote and 15 of the states pledged delegates. Clinton won only nine delegates. But she still walks away with 15 delegates, the same as Sanders, because six of the states eight superdelegates endorsed her. The big pictures even more lopsided. The tally of elected delegates won so far in Iowa, New Hampshire and Nevada and before the South Carolina primary is 52 for Clinton, 51 for Sanders. But when you add Clintons 445 superdelegates and Sanders 18, the picture looks far different: Clinton, 497; Sanders, 69 raising the fear among Sanders supporters that their man could win the popular vote, yet have the nomination legally stolen from him by superdelegates. For DNC Chair Debbie Wasserman-Schultz, thats just fine. Unpledged delegates exist really to make sure that party leaders and elected officials dont have to be in a position where they are running against grassroots activists, she told CNNs Jake Tapper. Which is fine, if you really want party elites to rule, but most people thought the Democratic Party had more democratic aims. But dont despair. There is an answer, as put forth in a petition by Moveon.org: For all superdelegates to pledge to support whichever candidate, Clinton or Sanders, gets the most votes in the primaries in order to respect the will of the people. Clinton supporter Christine Pelosi and Sanders supporter Anna Galland have already committed, and they are urging all superdelegates to do the same. Republicans, meanwhile, have no such party-boss rule. Each state is assigned three superdelegates the state chair, plus two more party officials and they must vote for the winner of their state primary. Such sweet irony. This primary campaign has, indeed, taken many strange twists and turns. But whoever thought the Republican Party would end up being more democratic? HORICON | Spring is just around the corner at Horicon Marsh, and the first geese and sandhill cranes are returning to Wisconsin. Events coming up include: March 10, 10-11 a.m. Stories at the Marsh Join a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources educator for storytelling and craft-making at the Horicon Marsh Education and Visitor Center. Turtle Splash is Marchs theme, and live animals will be onsite for story time. Meet Marsha the snapping turtle and some of her friends at this great event. Please enter through the lower entrance. March 19, 1-2:30 p.m. Spring Thaw Walk Join a Horicon Marsh educator for a hike through the marsh and explore the signs of spring. Spring is coming soon, and everything from birds to frogs will be out and about, said Liz Herzmann, DNR wildlife educator. If any flowers are in bloom, they will be a key part of the walk as well this is a great time to explore the marsh. Participants will meet in the upper lobby. Each March event is free of charge and does not require advance registration. For more information, contact Herzmann at 920-387-7893. JUNEAU | A 38-year-old Watertown man charged with kicking two police officers in the face still has an active warrant after he failed to appear in court for a hearing while he was in custody in the Jefferson County Jail. Joshua Mitchell is charged with two felony counts of battery to law enforcement. If convicted, he faces up to 12 years in prison and $20,000 in fines. A bench warrant was issued in January after Mitchell failed to appear in court for a preliminary hearing. Mitchells lawyer Greg Vollan informed the court that Mitchell was currently being held in the Jefferson County Jail. In court on Friday, Vollan requested that the warrant for Mitchells arrest be quashed. The motion was denied by Judge Joseph Sciascia. Mitchell whos still in the Jefferson County Jail will be transported to the Dodge County Jail once he is released. Mitchell was previously issued a $1,000 signature bond with the condition that he have no violent or abusive contact with anyone. Mitchell is charged with felony take and drive a vehicle without consent, three counts of felony bail jumping and two counts of misdemeanor bail jumping in Jefferson County. On Nov. 12, Mitchell was found to be disorderly in a local bar and was transported to the Watertown Regional Medical Center for a mental health evaluation. According to the criminal complaint, staff members told officers that Mitchell was spitting on hospital staff and had urinated in his room. Two officers responded to help contain Mitchell, who kept attempting to leave his room. The criminal complaint states that Mitchell began screaming at the officers, calling them pitbulls and pigs and saying that they could not give him any drugs. The officers attempted to get Mitchell to sit on the hospital bed and calm him down by restraining his arms so a nurse could give him a shot. The complaint states that Mitchell then kicked both officers multiple times in the face. He also allegedly bit one of the officers on his hand. Eventually Mitchell followed the officers instructions. Something vile happened in Chippewa Falls last week and its not what you think. Rep. Kathy Bernier, R-Lake Hallie, walked out of a meeting with educators because they dared ask why Minnesota was faring better than Wisconsin on some economic metrics. We began asking that question more than a year ago and President Barack Obama referred to our editorial during his visit to the University of Wisconsin-La Crosse in July. But Bernier thinks such comparisons are political and hateful. She made her feelings clear to educators who questioned her last week. And before she left the meeting in anger, she said: This vile political speech is not helpful. Vile? Maybe her dictionary is different than mine (Websters), but I dont think asking why the neighbor is faring better is morally despicable or abhorrent, evil or immoral, disgustingly and utterly bad and contemptible. It might fall under the definition of unpleasant, but that doesnt mean its an unfair question especially as Wisconsin continues to cut funding for education while Minnesota is working on a healthy surplus. Of course, Ive had experience asking Bernier questions she doesnt appreciate. During an editorial board interview with the Chippewa Herald a couple of years ago, I asked whether she thinks that Wisconsins priorities are out of whack now that the state spends more on corrections than it does on the University of Wisconsin System. So, last weeks forum with educators wasnt the first time shes heard the topic. I quickly understood that Bernier didnt agree and thats fine. When were paying more for incarceration than education at our state universities, we should all be asking about our priorities. But she doesnt see it that way. Ive heard plenty of vile political speech covering politics for 40 years especially during the past few years in Wisconsin. No party not Republican or Democrat, not independent or green or tea has an exclusive hold on vile politicking. Ive seen it and heard it from all sides. But simply asking about the neighbors success doesnt qualify as vile. What is vile is the notion that an elected representative of the public who belongs to the majority party believes she is above question, above scrutiny, above public debate especially during a public forum. Thats vile as vile as trying to gut the states laws governing open meetings and open records, which her party attempted in July. A day after her departure from the meeting with educators, Bernier told a Herald reporter: Its worse than going to a dentist, going to these meetings. I happen to like my dentist and would gladly offer a referral, but I dont think that would help. Dont be so cynical about the state of Wisconsin and how were doing, because were doing great, she said the day after, when she released information showing the two states are roughly equal in per-pupil spending for K-12 yet Wisconsin has a much better graduation rate. We are doing well. And I am so tired of hearing how bad we are, she said. But we could do better. From education to infrastructure and broadband accessibility to the availability of workforce to fill jobs, we can do better. Saying that isnt vile. Its the truth. If Bernier believes shes above questioning about issues involving the states spending priorities and strategies for growth, she was in the wrong meeting. In fact, if she cant be professional and engage in honest discussion, shes in the wrong business. Votes on the Columbia County Gateway project led to some heated exchanges at city hall last week. After a lengthy round of questions that irked Mayor Bill Tierney, the Portage Common Council approved two agreements to further the project along the Portage Canal late Thursday. Council members questioned the citys financial contribution to the project and a shared parking arrangement, which allows county workers to use half of the city-owned Market Square parking lot. I am almost embarrassed this evening, that now, at the 11th hour, we are raising some issues that should have been raised a long time ago, Tierney told Common Council members Thursday. Tierney said the agreements had been through the citys committee process and developed over months of coordination with Columbia County officials, some of whom were in attendance of the lengthy meeting last week. You are raising questions, that have been through committee, endorsed by committee, Tierney said. I wish, that if you had these questions, they would have been raised long before this developers agreement is sitting before this Council. Common Council President Rita Maass shot back later in the meeting that it is the Councils job to ask questions and not everyone on the Council sits on the committees that reviewed the project issues. When a Council member asks a question, it doesnt mean that they are opposed or for, they should not be scolded for asking questions because that is their responsibility: to ask questions before making a decision with the taxpayers money, Maass said. The scolding we got tonight is wrong. Shared parking A shared parking deal for the Countys use of the city-owned Market Square parking lot was the most debated of the two agreements. The parking pact designates half of the parking lots 120 stalls for use during business hours for Columbia County. The deal, however, does not preclude non-county people from parking in those designated stalls, although the stalls will be marked. For the county, the stalls solve a conflict with city parking amount requirements for new building projects. For the city, the deal ties Columbia County to participation on maintenance of the parking lot. Common Council member Doug Klapper said the parking deal is a win for the city because it secures funding for maintenance of the parking lot that the city would not otherwise receive without the signed agreement. Without agreement, the county would be free to use the parking lot without a designated restriction, proponents noted. But Council members questioned the impact on downtown businesses and whether the plan to designate parking stalls, with few actual rules for their usage, made logical sense and would only deter downtown motorists from using the lot. It is kind of a joke, said Common Council member Bill Kutzke. It doesnt make any sense and it is a terrible way to do business for the public. Common Council member Richard Lynn said the action would create a parking issue where downtown business owners would be the ones coming up short. Lynn said the lot should remain first come, first serve. Despite the heavy debate about parking, the agreement was approved narrowly with a tiebreaking-vote by Tierney. Common Council members Maass, Kutzke, Lynn and Marty Havlovic voted against the agreement. Klapper, Mary Hamburg, Rick Dodd and Mike Charles voted yes. And Jeff Monfort abstained, leading to a 4-4 tie. Although the Mayor does not normally get a vote, he was called upon to do so to break the tie, per city rules. His voted passed the motion 5-4. Monfort said after the meeting that both sides on the debate had good points and that he thought the parking issue should have been debated further. Financial contributions Some Council members also questioned another agreement with the county, which commits the city to contributing about $136,000 to the construction project. Lynn questioned whether the citys contribution was proper. City tax dollars should be used on city projects and county tax dollars should be used on county projects, Lynn said. The questions about the development agreement frustrated Tierney. The Council, Tierney noted, had said they would work with the county repeatedly to make sure the project happened in Portages downtown. Lynn shot back that to work with the county doesnt mean we are going to pay for their project. City officials later clarified that the funds will pay for city infrastructure not related to the county building project. The city needed to make upgrades to water service in the area and is taking advantage of the construction work to do it in a more cost effective manner. Piggybacking on the county construction project allows the city to save money doing the infrastructure upgrade now, versus independently later, according to City Administrator Shawn Murphy. We are taking advantage of the construction that is occurring in this area and replacing some facilities that benefit the region, in terms of water service to the region, Murphy said. The county, Murphy said, will pay for a part of the water infrastructure work proportionate to the impact the new buildings will have on the citys water utility. The city will borrow for funds later this year to pay for the contribution. The money will not be taxpayer funds, but funding from the water utility, which operates somewhat separate from the citys general fund coffers. The financial contribution is included in a developers agreement that spells out the responsibilities of both parties in the construction of the project. The agreements are standard operating procedure for bigger projects in the city that impact city infrastructure. The agreement was ultimately approved on a 9-0 vote. Conflict of interest concerns Prior to Thursdays meeting, Murphy raised concerns about a potential conflict of interest for Lynn regarding the county project. Lynn rejected the concern and voted on the agreements. Lynn said he has a mortgage interest on an adjacent property that would not pay more or less regarding the outcome of the developers agreement. There is no impact. I want to make that clear. I am not an investor in a property that is associated with the county project. And I dont think the county has made an offer on the property anyways, Lynn said. It would be my opinion I can vote on this issue. County officials have reviewed purchasing the property and several more in the adjacent area. When asked for a legal opinion Thursday, City Attorney Jesse Spankowski said he could not give substantive answer without knowing the ins and outs of Lynns business. I dont see a direct connection between this contract and you making any money, said Spankowski, while saying his last minute assessment probably is not worth much. Generally, the ethical standards would say if you have a financial interest direct or indirect that is related to this contract, you shouldnt vote on it, you shouldnt participate in discussion either, Spankowski said. For a more sound response, Spankowski said he would prefer some prior notice to look into the matter. When there is a conflict of interest or even a perceived conflict of interest, it is often suggested that elected officials abstain from voting and debating issues relating to that conflict or potential conflict. For instance, Mayor Bill Tierney abstained from taking votes and debating issues related to Divine Savior Healthcares recent expansion project. Tierney is employed by Divine Savior as a paramedic. First demonstration of quantum interference in high dimensions Researchers in South Africa and Scotland have demonstrated a new approach to quantum state engineering that requires only a beamsplitter. Professor Andrew Forbes, Wits University, collaborated with scientists from the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), University of KwaZulu-Natal and Heriot-Watt University in Scotland to publish a paper, Engineering two-photon high-dimensional states through quantum interference in the online journal of (SCIENCE), SCIENCE ADVANCES. Forbes is a Distinguished Professor in the School of Physics and heads the Structured Light Laboratory, with programmes to study both classical and quantum communication. The team wondered what would happen when entangled particles of light (photons) are brought together onto a partially reflecting mirror (beamsplitter) that is designed to send half the light one way and half the other way. Entanglement is that spooky action at a distance that Albert Einstein so disliked, giving rise to counterintuitive behavior. It was known that when two single photons are brought into the beamsplitter something strange happens: they either both go one way or noth the other way, they never go through in opposite directions as normal light does. Independent paths What the team found was that the photons could be made to take independent paths if they were in a particular quantum state. The consequence of this new finding is that this simple beamsplitter nothing more than a cube of glass can be used to engineer high-dimensional quantum states. The team used this device to engineer a quantum state in six dimensions using twisted light carrying orbital angular momentum. The South African team members have a joint project funded by the Photonics Initiative of South Africa (PISA) to demonstrate real-world quantum communication; with the present work a step towards this goal. Our project aims to bring quantum technologies out of the laboratory and into the real-world, to demonstrate a secure link using quantum encryption, said Forbes. According to the researchers, the story of the Enigma machine knows that encryption based on human ingenuity is flawed it is always possible that your adversary is smarter than you. But quantum encryption is based on the very laws of Nature, and so fundamentally secure. Challenge The challenge is to make this work in high dimensions and in the real world. In this recent advance, the team have used so-called twisted light, light that carries orbital angular momentum, to reach dimensions beyond the usual two. High-dimensional quantum entanglement is a tricky business, the researchers noted. Light can be entangled in many dimensions, but most people stick with two because it is so much easier to do the experiments. It is significant that we work in high dimensions, bringing abstract mathematics to life in the laboratory. A single quantum measurement with a high-dimensional quantum state can take the entire weekend to perform, running 24 hours a day. But the advantages of high-dimensions is that more information can be packed into the light, increasing the rate of data transfer. Way forward Professor Stef Roux, team leader at the CSIR laboratories, said they want to use this technology to demonstrate secure quantum communication over a long distance. We are working on several approaches to achieve this, some theoretical and some experimental. The next step in the project is to demonstrate UKZN Professors Thomas Konrad idea, that it is possible to teleport quantum states in high dimensions. This is still rather far from what we see on Star Trek, but were getting there, said Forbes. See:www.structuredlight.org Universities are heritage sites Universities are custodians of invaluable national resources and should be protected. This sentiment was expressed by the Minister of Higher Education, Dr Blade Nzimande, and his counterpart, Minister of Police Nkosinathi Nhleko, during their visit to Wits University this morning. The ministers visited one of Wits and South Africas treasure, the William Cullen Library. The Library is home to the Historical Papers section, which contains one of the largest and most comprehensive independent archives in southern Africa. It houses over 3300 collections of historical, political and cultural importance, encompassing the mid- 17th Century to the present. The visit comes after a few incidents of buildings, art and busses being burnt during the on-going student protests around the country. Some of the valuable material on display today included the: Freedom Charter (1955); the Treason Trial (1956); Notebook by De La Caille (1746) calculating the latitude in the Cape; Robert Sobukwe, photograph of the PAC marching to Orlando Police station, 21 March 1960; the Slave Register with original photographs (1872); and photographs from the Barnett collection of photographs, 1896-early 1900s, covering the history of gold mining in Johannesburg. The ministers also had the opportunity to listen to the original recording of Sol Plaatje, singing the national anthem Nkosi Sikelel' iAfrika" recorded in 1923 during his visit to London. A media briefing was held on the steps of the Willam Cullen Library immediately after the tour where they spoke on the current destruction of national assets on campuses and the governments response. Read the joint statement by Nzimande and Nhleko on campus disturbances. Cracking the code of the Universe A hundred years ago, Albert Einstein published his theory of general relativity. A hundred years from now, the world might be looking back to today, celebrating the cracking of String Theory. String Theory is a highly complex theory in physics that attempts to find a solution to the question of why quantum mechanics and Einsteins theory of general relativity are not compatible. Where Einsteins theory of general relativity provides a unified description of gravity as a geometric property of space and time (or spacetime), quantum mechanics provides a description of how fundamental particles build up and create the substances with which we are familiar. While both these theories are some of the best-tested theories in science, they seem to be fundamentally irreconcilable where they both matter. String Theory establishes a link between particle physics and Einsteins general relativity. This correspondence, which is unexpected and one of the most exciting areas of current research in Theoretical High Energy Physics is the subject of active research by members of the Mandelstam Institute for Theoretical Physics, based at Wits University, says Professor Joao Rodrigues, Director of the Institute. The Mandelstam Institute was established in January 2015 out of what was previously known as the Centre for Theoretical Physics at Wits. The Institute conducts research in Theoretical High Energy Physics, Cosmology and Quantum Matter and is widely regarded as the leading university-based theoretical physics research group on the African continent. It consists of 11 academics, eight of whom are rated by the NRF and two of whom hold DST/NRF Chairs. They are Professor Robert de Mello-Koch (Fundamental Physics and String Theory) and Professor Vishnu Jejjala (Theoretical Particle Cosmology). We are certainly leaders in the area of Theoretical High Energy Physics/String Theory, adds Rodrigues. Named after the eminent South African-born American theoretical physicist and Wits graduate, Stanley Mandelstam, who is currently Professor Emeritus at the University of California, Berkeley, the Institute has eight postdoctoral fellows and close to 30 postgraduate students. It also hosts the Gauteng node of the National Institute for Theoretical Physics. General relativity deals with the physics of large scales, and quantum mechanics deals with the physics of small scales, so you dont need to worry about their incompatibility because one theory is (usually) good enough for your calculation, says Jejjala. However, to explain the start of the universe, or the functioning of black holes in space, you need both these theories. Einsteins theory tells us everything about how the Universe expands but it doesnt explain what happened at the instant that the Universe started, he adds. In this instance, both theories matter, but they dont speak to each other. Researchers in the Institute and their peers in the field believe that they are now closer to solving this riddle. What has happened is one of the most exciting developments in this field, and that is that there may be a link between general relativity theory and particle physics, which may allow us to understand or figure out a long-standing problem in particle physics, which is the problem of confinement, says Jejjala. In certain settings, gravitational physics and non-gravitational quantum field theories are the same thing. While work on String Theory is still work in progress, they are closer to being able to describe the Universe in detail. We are certainly not done with quantum gravity or String Theory but it is a very exciting time, in that we are able to begin to address the kind of questions of how the Universe works at a very fundamental level, concludes Jejjala. An eagle anniversary at the alma mater of the national bird Where eagles nest: A pair of bald eagle chicks begin their days in a nest in the very top of a pine on the Rappahannock River. The Center for Conservation Biology counts young eagles during productivity flights in April. Photo by the Center for Conservation Biology Photo - of - Hide Caption Mitchell Byrd and Bryan Watts have earned a number of insights into the domestic arrangements of bald eagles nesting in Virginias coastal plain. Byrd and Watts have been two members of a three-man team that has been doing annual aerial census surveys of nesting bald eagles throughout the region. Watts, director of the Center for Conservation Biology, is conducting his 25th year of the flights, while Byrd is celebrating his 40th year. Watts and Byrd co-founded the Center for Conservation Biology at William & Mary in 1992. The third member of the team is a former fighter pilot who goes by the name of Capt. Fuzzzo. (The middle z, he says, is silent.) Capt. Fuzzzo, the new guy, has been piloting for the census flights for 24 years. Byrd, the Chancellor Professor Emeritus in the Department of Biology, began the census flights in 1977. The regional bald eagle population, he explained, was just starting to recover after the banning of DDT pesticide and being automatically placed on the new federal Endangered Species List in 1973. At that time there were 33 pairs of bald eagles breeding in coastal Virginia. And there were none on the James, he recalled. We flew several years without seeing a nest on the James. It got pretty frustrating. The methodology is the same as when Byrd first began the flights, when it was me, a pilot and a sick student in the back. Watts is the spotter. Byrd sits in the copilot seat with a stack of topographic maps, marking down each sighting. Capt. Fuzzzo flies the plane at an altitude low enough for Watts to spot the nest and its occupants. The team flies two sets of flights, one in late February-early March, to scout out new eagle nests and to check the status of known nests. A second set, in late April, counts chicks that have been hatched. Some stretches are more densely populated than others, resulting in some frantic scenes inside Capt. Fuzzzos Cessna. On the upper James, for instance, starting about at Williamsburg and going on up toward Richmond, its pretty intense, Watts said. Its make-your-head-spin intense. The nests are packed in so tight, the distance between them is seconds. People dont realize the concentration that it takes. The eagles have done better than anyone could have imagined, Watts said. There are more eagles in the Chesapeake Bay area now than there have been since Colonial times and the James River is now one of the regions most productive areas for nesting eagles. The eagle recovery team in the 70s had set a recovery goal of 300 breeding pairs in the Bay. Watts said the 300-pairs goal was based on a long-depressed population, about which there wasnt much hard data. Byrd called the goal mostly a wild guess. The DDT was just the last bad chapter in a bad book for the eagles, Watts said. There were shootings. There was a lot of deforestation in the post-Civil War period. And now we have completely come out of that. Today, the tidal reach of the Chesapeake is home to more than 2,000 breeding pairs of the national bird. The comeback is due to a number of factors, not least of which is reforestation. In 1977, when Mitchell started doing these flights, most of the birds were nesting in what we call survivor trees, Watts said, going on to explain that such large trees date back to the Civil War period and are rare on the landscape. But now, through secondary succession, many of the trees that were planted in the post-Civil War period are getting to the stature where they can support nests, he said. Thats another thing that I think has contributed to the recovery. Bald eagles have a number of preferences when it comes to nesting. As the eagle population increases, Byrd and Watts have become quite familiar with the bald eagle real estate market. The ideal nesting tree, they say, has a characteristic known as crown access. By that we mean a large tree where the crown is above everything else, Watts said. Thats a key factor. Eagles have large wingspans and they dont like to fly through tight spaces. A clear, unobstructed flight path to the nest seems to be much more important to eagles than the absolute height of the nest. As the eagle population of the Bay has grown, prime nesting sites have become scarce and the choices of birds crowded out of the premier real estate of the area still reflect the importance the birds place on the accessibility of the nest. They found one eagle pair nesting on a channel marker Byrd lost a bet with a student on that one and another pair nested on the open ground. An eagle nest can weigh upwards of two tons and requires a sturdy tree to support it, and Watts said the most favored nest trees display a scaffolding structure in the upper branches to make a good foundation for the birds. The flights have revealed significant differences between older, experienced parents and younger birds. For one thing, the experienced eagles lay eggs earlier and therefore tend to get the best nesting trees. Watts said the eagles trying to breed in the suboptimum nesting sites, such as the ground nester and the channel marker birds, are virtually always inexperienced eagles who couldnt find a more suitable location. There is about a month span between older adult nesters and young birds, Watts said. Newly established territories with young birds tend to be later nesters and less productive. Theyre learning. The older birds have sheer experience on their side, and Watts pointed out that early breeding gives them a significant reproductive advantage by offering a pair a second chance if something goes wrong with their first clutch of eggs. We always have a certain number of failures, he said. At this latitude, some of the early-breeding birds will go ahead and have another clutch. Once you get up to New England, that doesnt happen any more. They have a shorter breeding season. Both Watts and Byrd say that the repopulation of bald eagles in the Chesapeake Region is the greatest success story in American conservation. The eagle population has reached saturation point around the Bay and the population is spreading to all parts of the country. Were seeing the result of decisions that were made in the 1960s and 1970s. Its hard to imagine now, with all the political gridlock, Watts said, but Americans got behind eagles at that time and they made the right decisions. The Center for Conservation Biology is a joint program of William & Mary and Virginia Commonwealth University. China News on Women Sorry, the page you requested was not found. If you're having trouble locating a destination on Womenofchina.cn, try visiting the Womenofchina Home page Britons urged to book Spain holidays soon Andalusia's El Torcal de Antequera British families are being warned to book Spanish or Portuguese holidays now to avoid disappointment. Ryanair says that they should act by the end of the month at the latest. The plea comes as more and more other nationalities switch to the Iberian Peninsula to avoid terror hotspots. Many hotels across Andalusia and the Algarve have already put their "no vacancies" signs up on their August and July websites, says the low-cost airline's Kenny Jacobs. The rush follows terror incidents in Turkey and Tunisia since this time last year. In particular, Germans are said to be turning their attentions further north-west instead. Mr Jacobs, Ryanair's chief marketing officer, says around four in 10 Germans who planned to visit Turkey have changed their minds. They are instead lining up Portugal and Spain as their next preferred options, he says. Why lose out on cancellations? Such uncertainty can lead to holiday cancellations. But if the unexpected occurs, travel insurance can cover people against losses. S uch insurance can cover a whole manner of surprises from lost sunglasses and passports to flight cancellations. Andalusia in big demand Mr Jacobs is recommending that Britons reserve their places in Portugal or Spain before the end of the month (Monday, February 29) or risk missing out. He says British families risk the possibility of "fighting" when it comes to securing hotel beds out there. Mr Jacobs says Portuguese hoteliers informed him of the trend during a visit last week. He says demand seems particularly high in the beautifully rugged hotspots of Andalusia and the Algarve. Ryanair's north African orders have eased off since the attacks, the airline official told a central London press gathering. But north Africa's tourism loss is working in Spain and Portugal's favour, says Mr Jacobs. He believes that UK families in particular will have to act fast with the limited school holiday window compared to other countries. IAEA issues first Iran verification report 29 February 2016 Share The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) has issued its first report on verification and monitoring activities in Iran since the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA) between Iran and the E3/EU+3 countries. The JCPOA, under which Iran agreed to limit its uranium enrichment activities, eliminate its stockpile of medium-enriched uranium and limit its stockpile of low enriched uranium over the next 15 years, was signed in July 2015 by Iran and the E3/EU+3 (China, France, Germany, Russia, the UK and the USA - also referred to as the P5+1 - plus the European Union). It was implemented on 16 January - known as Implementation Day - after the IAEA confirmed that Iran had taken the necessary preparatory steps. At the same time, Iran commenced the implementation of the Additional Protocol to its nuclear safeguards agreement with the IAEA. Since then, the IAEA has been verifying and monitoring Iran's ongoing implementation of its nuclear-related commitments under the plan. The IAEA's report, made public by the US-based Institute for Science and International Security (ISIS), notes that since the JCPOA was implemented Iran has not pursued the construction of the Arak heavy water reactor or produced or tested uranium fuel materials for it, and that all existing natural uranium pellets and fuel assemblies remain in storage under continuous IAEA monitoring. The agency confirmed that a total of 20 tonnes of heavy water, verified and sealed by the IAEA, was shipped out of Iran in February bringing the country's inventory of the material to below 130 tonnes. The IAEA also confirmed that since Implementation Day, Iran has conducted its uranium enrichment activities in line with its declared long-term plans. The IAEA also noted that Iran has provided it with information on its production and inventory of centrifuge rotor tubes and bellows, which the agency has verified through continuous monitoring. Iran has continued to permit the use of on-line enrichment monitors and electronic seals which communicate their status within nuclear sites to IAEA inspectors, and to facilitate the automated collection of measurement recordings registered by installed measurement devices, the agency noted. It also said that the country has issued long-term visas to IAEA inspectors as requested, and has continued to permit the agency to monitor all uranium ore concentrate produced in Iran or obtained elsewhere. The IAEA also noted that in February Iran had provided it with "early design information for two planned light water power reactors at Bushehr." The estimated annual cost to the IAEA for the implementation of Irans Additional Protocol to its safeguards agreement and for verifying and monitoring Irans nuclear-related commitments as set out in the JCPOA is 9.2 million ($10 million) per annum. For 2016, all of this is to be met from "extrabudgetary" funds from IAEA member states. "As of 26 February 2016, the total amount available to the Agency for the implementation of the Additional Protocol and for verification and monitoring in relation to the JCPOA was 8.8 million," the report noted. Researched and written by World Nuclear News Related topics Talks on Algerian nuclear power aspirations begin soon 29 February 2016 Share Russia and Algeria plan to meet for talks this week on the possibility of building a nuclear power plant in Algeria, Sergey Lavrov, the Russian foreign minister, said in an interview with Algerian newspaper L'Expression that was published on 28 February. The Russian foreign ministry published a transcript of the interview on its website the same day. Lavrov referred to the intergovernmental agreement the two countries signed in September 2014 to cooperate in the peaceful uses of nuclear energy. A joint coordinating committee tasked with implementing the agreement will convene on 1-3 March in Algiers, the minister said. "The agenda of the meeting includes discussion of the possibility of building a nuclear power plant of Russian design in the territory of Algeria, the development of Algeria's nuclear infrastructure and non-power applications of nuclear technology - for example, in medicine," he said. The intergovernmental agreement - signed on 3 September in Algiers by Rosatom director general Sergey Kiriyenko and Algerian energy minister Youcef Yousfi - provides for the design, construction, operation and servicing of nuclear power plants as well as research reactors in Algeria. All technologies, materials and equipment transferred to Algeria under the agreement will be used exclusively for peaceful purposes, Rosatom, the Russian state nuclear corporation, said at the time. In addition, the two countries said they intended to carry out jointly exploration and operation of uranium deposits, Rosatom said. The agreement also states the possibility of the use of nuclear technologies in agriculture, biology, soil science, seawater desalination, and medicine, including the production of radioisotopes. The two sides will also cooperate in radiation safety in Algeria. In February 2009 Algeria announced that it planned to build its first nuclear power plant to be operating about 2020, and might build a further unit every five years thereafter. In 2013 the target became a first plant by 2025, and a Nuclear Engineering Institute was established to provide training. In September 2009 its National Mining Patrimony Agency put uranium exploration leases in the southern Tamanrasset province out for tender. Algeria has operated two research reactors since 1995, at Draria and Ain Ouessara. The 15 MWt Es-Salam plant is a Chinese heavy water reactor which started up in 1992, the Nur 1 MWe pool unit was built by INVAP of Argentina in the 1980s. Researched and written by World Nuclear News Related topics Email Sign Up For Our Free Weekly Newsletter Hong Kong annual rental growth ranks top in Asia Pacific Sign Up Free | The WPJ Weekly Newsletter Relevant real estate news. Actionable market intelligence. Right to your inbox every week. Go Thank you for your interest! You will now be receiving our Weekly Real Estate Newsletter. Real Estate Listings Showcase According to JLL's latest, the average rental rate of Grade A1 office buildings in Central Hong Kong grew 3.1% m-o-m in January 2016. It is the largest monthly advance since May 2011.Central rents climbed 1.5% m-o-m to an average of HKD 103.9 per sq ft last month. The strong growth in Grade A1 office rents was underpinned by the willingness of mainland corporates to pay a rental premium to secure office space. Demand from mainland corporates contributed to Hong Kong's Grade A office rents surging 13.3% in 2015, the strongest growth in Asia Pacific and ranked ninth across the 95 major markets covered by the JLL Global Office Index.Hong Kong was followed by Sydney, Australia where office demand was broader. Shanghai, Guangzhou and Beijing also recorded rental growth of 9.4%, 4% and 3.7% respectively. Weak economic conditions coupled with a large supply pipeline saw Singapore rents decline 10.5% in 2015.In January, net take-up in Hong Kong's overall office market reached 48,000 sq ft. In Central, leasing activity was largely underpinned by smaller requirements owing to limited availability amid a tight vacancy environment. More sizable leasing transactions were mainly recorded in decentralised office markets. Among the more notable new lettings was from LeTV, a Chinese media and technology company, leasing three floors at The Octagon in Tsuen Wan, consolidating and relocating from office in Kowloon East.Alex Barnes, Head of Hong Kong Markets at JLL commented, "Demand levels have remained broadly constant despite stock market fluctuations. We continue to see steady demand from PRC firms, particularly in Central. We believe this will continue through 2016 as the typical footprint of PRC firms is small, relative to the existing business base in Hong Kong. We expect the rents in Central to grow a further 5-10% this year."Denis Ma, Head of Research said, "The strong start to the year for the city's Grade A office market even as a number of banks announced staff cuts underscores just how challenging it has become for tenants looking to secure premium office space in the city. With a number of mainland corporates still actively seeking to set-up and expand operations and the amount of backfilling (i.e. shadow space) in Central at its lowest level in five years, we expect rents to be well supported over the coming year." Elon Musk's SpaceX rocket company was forced to cancel the launch of one its rockets Sunday night after an onboard computer signaled that it was unsafe. Elon Musks rocket company SpaceX was forced to cancel the launch of one their rockets at the very last second on Sunday. This marks the third time in five days that the US based company was forced to cancel the launch of one of their rockets. According to BBC, the Falcon 9 rocket had already ignited its engines and was moments away from take-off before the on board computer called for the mission to be aborted. SpaceX has been attempting to launch a satellite for Luxembourg-based operator SES, but has been having trouble with their launches. Multiple attempts have been canceled at the last minute. A fourth attempt is possible for later this week, but the engineers at SpaceX are going to need time to get to the bottom of why the onboard systems called for a last second cancellation of the satellites launch. In addition, the US Air Force will need time to clear the Cape Canaveral airspace to ensure a safe launch. During the cancelled launch in question, the Falcon 9 rocket was hindered by a boat in the Capes surrounding waters traveling in a restricted zone and putting itself and the mission at risk. SpaceX has had a rocky history with rocket launches. Last year, a Falcon 9 rocket, not unlike the one whose launch was canceled on Sunday, broke apart just two and a half minutes into its mission. Since then, the company has changed up their strategy, equipping its Falcon 9 rockets with upgraded thrust. Another attempt at a launch is expected later this week. When asked how he knew that his original statements were true he said it was just information he had known for years. An Idaho legislator sparked outrage last Thursday when he stated that pregnancy is unlikely to result from rape or incest due to the trauma involved. State Rep. Pete Nielsen, R-Mountain Home, stated, Now, Im of the understanding that in many cases of rape it does not involve any pregnancy because of the trauma of the incident. That may be true with incest a little bit Nielsens comments were made during the hearing on HB 516 that would require that women who are seeking abortions be given a list of places where they can get free ultrasounds, and was directed toward Angela Dwyer of Stanton Healthcare, a crisis pregnancy center, as she was testifying. Dwyer was testifying in support of the bill, which also states that a woman will not be given an abortion unless she is told that heart tone monitoring and ultrasound imaging are available. Although Nielsen stuck with his statement following the hearing, saying pregnancy doesnt happen as often as it does with consensual sex, because of the trauma involved, he has now recanted, saying he was wrong in his belief. I was in error, and I regret it, he said. When asked how he knew that his original statements were true he said it was just information he had known for years. He said that, as the father of five girls, he had explored the topic a lot, and had read it several times, adding whether its totally accurate or not, I dont know. The statements were reminiscent of those made by U.S. Rep. Todd Akin (R-MO) who said in 2012 that if a women experienced legitimate rape her body would reject a pregnancy. Legislative director for Idahos Planned Parenthood, Hannah Brass Greer, said that statements like this point blame at rape victims who become pregnant, suggesting that they consented. She pointed out that the statement was obviously medically inaccurate. Rep. Melissa Wintrow, D-Boise said what that kind of a statement does to somebody whos been victimized violently its ignorant, its insensitive. Nielsen maintained that it is abortion rights supporters that are ignoring scientific fact, because both scientific and religious teachings prove without a doubt that a fetus is a living individual. He says he supports the bill, because it would help women see and hear the fetus and make their decision of whether to proceed with abortion based on the ultrasound. He says he is not trying to change a womans mind about terminating the pregnancy. Nielsen says that, since making the comments, he has gotten several hateful phone calls and emails from around the country from people telling him he is completely wrong. John Martin and Natalia Strelchenko By: Feng Qian A man was arrested on a charge of murder after allegedly strangling his wife because he was jealous of her successful musical career, police in the United Kingdom said. Manchester police said that they arrested 48-year-old John Martin, after being accused of killing 38-year-old Natalia Strelchenko. Strelchenko, a pianist, recently landed a position at a prestigious school in France. The Manchester Crown Court heard that Martin, a bass player, was jealous of his wifeas successful career while his own sagged. Strelchenko began playing with the Orchestra of St. Petersburg, Russia, at the age of 12. When she was 15 years old, she went to a specialized music school and went on to play in places around the world, including the Wigmore Hall in London, Carnegie Hall in New York, and the Cathedral in Berlin, Germany. On the day of the coupleas wedding anniversary, Strelchenko recorded songs with friends at the School of Music. She returned home at night, and argued with Martin. Martin left the home and began drinking alone, but Strelchenko and his friends persuaded him to go back home. Martin then sent a text message to a friend, saying that his wife had been shutting him out for more than a year. He returned home and threw his wife down a flight of stairs before strangling her. A musician friend who was staying at the house, fled in fear and the police were called. Strelchenko was found unconscious near the stairs. She suffered serious injuries to the neck, and despite the efforts of paramedics, she was later pronounced dead. Martin denied killing his wife. A young man wanted to make a point about racism in the United States, but his plan backfired when he was exposed for a liar by police. 20-year-old Khalil Cavil of Texas was working at the Saltgrass Steak House in Odessa when he claimed he was discriminated against because of his Muslim name. Cavil took Daniel and Samuel Sledden By: Mahesh Sarin Drug dealers from the United Kingdom, were jailed for mocking a judge on Facebook. Daniel and Samuel Sledden of Accrington, were shocked but overjoyed when a judge gave them probation instead of jail time for selling drugs. The brothers were facing 3 years in prison, but judge Beverley Lunt sentenced them to a 2 year suspended sentence after they pleaded guilty to distributing drugs. However, just forty minutes after leaving the Burnley Crown Court, the men took to Facebook to celebrate their luck by making fun of the judge. Daniel, 27, wrote: aCannot believe my luck. 2 year suspended sentence beats 3 years jail, yes pal.a He than added: athe judge should s*** his private parts. a His brother, Samuel, 22, wrote: aWhat a day it has been at the Burnley Crown Court! Aha nice 2 year suspended.a He then also made sexually explicit comments, mocking the judge. The judge ordered their arrests. Lunt said that at their previous appearance the brothers aassured her that they were full of remorse. However, their Facebook posts indicated that they have not changed at all. They have not learned anything and they are not taking responsibility.a The brothers had their suspended sentences revoked and they were sentenced to two years in prison. Pierce Thompkins By: Wayne Morin A man was arrested after sexually assaulting a nurse while she was taking care of his mother. Police in Georgia, arrested 49-year-old Pierce Thompkins of Augusta, after the nurse called them to report the assault. According to the police report, the nurse who works at the Augusta University Medical Center, was caring for the manas mother while he was lying on a couch in the patients room. While the nurse was taking blood from the elderly woman, Thompkins placed his hand on her backside. aWhile she was focusing on the patient, Thompkins placed his hand on her backside and chuckled,a the police report said. The 50-year-old nurse told police that she slapped the manas hand and warned him not to touch her like that again. Thompkins told officers that he accidentally touched the woman with his elbow when she was moving around, according to the police report. Thompkins was arrested and charged with sexual battery. Wrexham Council Submit Second Bid to Host Iconic Poppy Displays This article is old - Published: Monday, Feb 29th, 2016 Wrexham Council have today submitted their bid for the town to host two commemorative poppy displays. Earlier this month Wrexham.com reported that Wrexham Council were to submit a second bid to host two 14-18 NOW WW1 Centenary Art Commissions in the town centre. If successful one the Poppy Wave would be displayed on Llwyn Isaf and the Weeping Window would be featured St Giles Church in the town centre. This is the second time Wrexham Council have bid to host the sculptures, following an unsuccessful attempt to bring the display to Llwyn Isaf last year. The special poppy sculptures, which had been previously installed at the Tower of London as part of the commemorations to mark the centenary of the beginning of the First World War. Two parts of the original Blood Swept Lands and Seas of Red, which attracted millions of visitors during its time at the Tower of London, will be displayed at locations across the UK in 2015 and 2016. The Wave and Weeping Window have been saved for the nation by the Backstage Trust and the Clore Duffield Foundation, and gifted to 14-18 NOW and Imperial War Museums. The results of Wrexham Councils bid is expected to be announced in June 2016. Speaking about Wrexham Councils bid, Cllr David Griffiths, Armed Forces Champion and Chair of the Poppy Wave Group said: I believe residents in Wrexham would love to see one of these displays in the town centre and this time we are putting forward two locations. We are committed to bringing the poppies to Wrexham and I wish the bids every success. Reverend Bray from St Giles Church, added: The Weeping Window display could be displayed at St Giles to provide a stunning display for residents and visitors to Wrexham. the public interest in the poppies is huge and I have no doubts they will be seen by many thousands of people should the bid be successful. Teachers in the Compton Unified School District (CUSD), south of Los Angeles, stayed out of their classrooms twice last week as part of organized sickouts designed to protest low wages and bad working conditions. On Monday, more than 200 CUSD teachers called out sick, including 44 at Compton High School alone, or nearly 50 percent of faculty currently working at that school. On Friday, ten of the districts 37 schools were forced to close Friday because of a shortage of teachers. There is no indication that the Compton Education Association (CEA) called the protests, and there is nothing on the unions web site about them. It is likely rank-and-file teachers organized the sickouts independently of the union just like educators in Detroit did earlier this year. The districts 1,200 teachers and other school employees are frustrated over stalled contract talks and angered that the CEA has kept them on the job without a contract since the last one expired in June 2015. In an effort to regain control of the situation union officials called a rally at district headquarters Tuesday where they tried to identify themselves with the teachers grievances. You need to put money into the classroom, where the students are and that should be the priority, teachers union President Patrick Sullivan said at the rally. The central issues in the current negotiations are over salary and medical benefits. The Compton Unified School District is offering teachers an insulting 2 percent salary increase, well below the 3.1 percent increase in the Consumer Price Index, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. The CEA has limited its wage demands to 5 percent. Fridays action was the fourth sickout organized by Compton teachers in the last three years alone. Last November, more than half of Compton high school teachers called in sick to protest recent school board elections and the passage of local Bond Measure S, meant to modernize schools at the expense of teacher compensation. At the time, teachers also argued that the school board was rife with graft and corruption and that a significant portion of that funding would thus not be used to improve any schools in the district. On March 11, 2014, teachers in Compton organized a sickout to protest the collapse of contract talks between the district and the union, with the CEA vehemently denying claims they were behind the job action. At the time CEA President Sullivan said, The Compton Education Association did not sanction a sickout nor a strike. It hasnt been planned. In an open letter to teachers on February 3 in anticipation of possible sickout actions, Compton Schools Superintendent Darin Brawley claimed the districts offer was overly generous, as Compton teachers did not suffer unpaid furloughs and layoffs like many other districts across the state after the 2008 recession. Teachers in Compton Unified, however, were already some of the most poorly paid in the entire greater Los Angeles area, and this was true even after unpaid furloughs were implemented in nearby districts. The last time Compton teachers received a raise was in 2014 after they had gone without a salary increase of any kind for seven whole years. While teachers throughout the Los Angeles area work extremely long hours, their take-home pay is often not enough to pay for the most basic expenses. According to California Housing Partnership, in order to afford an apartment at a level that is no more than 30 percent of take home wages, a Los Angeles resident should make a minimum of $68,640 per year, well above the average salary of Los Angeles area teachers, including Compton. Like teachers around the country, many Compton teachers are compelled to spend their own funds on school supplies, as the district itself will not pay for them. In some schools, teachers bring their own hand soap to school bathrooms because automatic soap dispensers are never refilled. This sickout follows other independent maneuvers of teachers across the country, including teacher sickouts in Detroit, Michigan last month to protest deplorable and unsanitary conditions within the school district. A few weeks later, 2,000 teachers marched in downtown Chicago after rank-and-file teachers rebelled against an effort by the Chicago Teachers Union to push through a deal that would slash jobs, wages and pension benefits. The California affiliates of the National Education Association and the American Federation of Teachers are aligned with Governor Jerry Brown, who, along with President Obama and the Democratic Party on the national level, is spearheading the attack on teachers and public education as a whole. Last April, the United Teachers of Los Angeles (UTLA) accepted a deal with the Los Angeles Unified School District that continued the erosion of living standards for the districts 35,000 public school teachers, while blocking any struggle against overcrowded classrooms, the lack of supplies and the bipartisan attack on public education. Confronting teachers around the country is a united front that aims to turn the $500 billion a year US public education system into a source of naked profiteering. This front consists of not only the Gates and Broad foundation and other billionaire philanthropists, but also the Democratic and Republican parties and the trade unions. Compton teachers should expand their struggle by organizing rank-and-file committees in every school, democratically controlled by teachers and independent of the CEA, to fight for the broadest mobilization of students, parents and the entire working class in defense of their jobs and living standards and public education as a whole. Art objects created by North American peoples of the Paleoindian period (approximately 18,000 to 8,000 BCE), have been found at the Gault Archaeological Site, which is located about 50 miles north of Austin, Texas. The new methods used by archaeologists to identify the objects, employing sophisticated computerized scanning and analysis, suggest that such objects may actually be more common in North America than previously believed. Archaeologists Ashley Lemke (University of Michigan), Clark Wernecke, and Michael B. Collins (both from Texas State University) note that early art in North America dating back to the Paleoindian period, which is when most archaeologists currently agree humans first arrived in the New World, has been considered rare when compared to similar findings in the Old World. This may not, in fact, be the case. Their findings, based on analysis of incised artifacts from the Gault site, were published last year in an article in American Antiquity, the flagship journal of the Society for American Archaeology. They attribute this erroneous assumption to problems of recognition and underreporting. In particular, they write, an expectation to find such artifacts plays a principal role in their identification. The building of an appropriate analysis protocol that allows excavators to identify engraved artifacts during excavations resulted in one project identifying more than 100 stones with incised lines as well as engraved bone. The Gault site has been occupied by humans consistently throughout the last 14,000 years and sits on land that has been privately owned since the 19th century. After initial investigations were performed by archaeologists in the early 20th century, the land was sold to landowners who established a pay-to-dig venue, where collectors could pay a small fee to dig anywhere on the property and keep everything they found. The first recognition of early art at the site came in 1990 when a collector recovered four small, incised limestone tablets that were associated with Clovis artifacts, a specific designation given to stone tools originally identified at sites near Clovis, New Mexico, that date back approximately 11,000 years. The collector brought them to archaeologists at the University of Texas in Austin, who subsequently conducted test excavations in the area where the artifacts were discovered. They uncovered more incised stones and flakes (the debris of stone tool production), and after publishing their results were contacted by other collectors who had found similar objects but had not recognized them as being incised. The art artifacts discussed in the 2015 paper consist only of those recovered from systematic excavationsnine incised stones and one engraved bone from Paleoindian-aged contexts. However, the authors report that a special protocol has been created and distributed to any excavator working at the site that instructs them on how to fully inspect each artifact for potential engraving. They write that while some incised patterns are obvious when the artifact is excavated others are more difficult to discern and are sent to the laboratory for microscopic inspection. In the laboratory, the artifacts are photographed using Polynomial Texture Mapping (PTM), which helps in the detection of incised patterns that can be difficult to detect even microscopically. PTM captures digital images of the artifacts using multiple lighting angles in order to obtain a more representative image. Up to 64 different high-resolution digital images are captured under a dome that has strobing lights positioned in an upward spiral. The data is then collected in what are called texels (texture pixels), which can then be manipulated to draw out the different lighting conditions. Researchers can then enhance and examine a multitude of patterns on the stone artifacts. The engraved artifacts found at Gault help us to better understand the artistic expression of humans living in the Paleoindian period. The authors of the 2015 paper report that the Gault stones and bone display geometric, intentional, and patterned engraving behavior that may be decorative, ownership marks, or other symbols, which we have classified here as art. They write that there are likely other specimens from other sites that have fallen into miscellaneous categories that also feature similar incised patterns: There are many other examples of art dating to the Paleoindian period in North America, including petroglyphs of extinct Pleistocene fauna, one case of painted bones, and other engraved bones, ivory, and lithics [stones]. They provide a table listing artifacts that feature early art in North and Central America, including objects found in sites in Arizona, California, Colorado, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, New York, North Dakota, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Washington, Wyoming, British Columbia and Tequixquiac in Mexico. All of them have been dated by various archaeologists to between approximately 8,000 and 12,000 years ago. In addition to the incisions made on such objects, the authors also describe the use of ochre (a red pigment) during the Paleoindian period. This is significant because ochre has been found used on both artifacts and landscapes altered by humans all around the world, both in the archaeological record and in use by modern societies today. While the use of ochre is not a diagnostic Paleoindian trait, they write, it is found fairly consistently from a wide variety of contexts throughout the period including burials, on animal bones, in caches, and numerous domestic contexts. They also report that there is even an instance of ochre being mined by Paleoindian peoples in Wyoming. The importance of these discoveries is in the information we obtain about hunter-gatherer societies that existed in prehistoric North America. According to the authors, this information includes how they exchanged information, their social mobility, how they transmitted culture, and how they signaled each other. It also helps dispel myths of primitive savagery that are still sometimes wrongly associated with prehistoric societies in general. Art in prehistoric North America may still be rare in comparison with art found in other parts of the world, but it appears that this has been primarily due to its invisibility. Now that such discoveries can be made using new advances in technology, researchers can place these artifacts into a larger inventory of art that includes artifacts dating back as far as 100,000 years ago. The authors of the 2015 paper suggest that those interested in this history can have more detailed discussions of the creation, maintenance, and use of engraved art across the globe and can [enhance] our understanding of shared patterns of symbolic behavior over vast amounts of time and space. A NATO convoy under German leadership is to begin operations in the Aegean Sea in the next few days, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg and German Defence Minister Ursula von der Leyen said Thursday. The official goal of the mission is the complete closure of the Aegean to refugees, militarily strengthening Fortress Europe against refugees from the war zones in the Middle East. The dispatch of warships to the strategic Aegean Sea also heightens the risk of NATO intervention in the Syrian civil war and war with Russia. Stoltenberg said in a press release that the goal of NATO was the disruption of the routes used by smugglers and for illegal migration in the Aegean. He boasted that the ships of the Standing NATO Maritime Group 2 (SNMG 2) had already arrived in the mission area 48 hours after the decision of NATO defence ministers was taken two weeks ago. Now it was a matter of collectively finding solutions for the crisis. By solutions of the refugee crisis, Stoltenberg and NATO mean the military strengthening of the Greek and Turkish coast guard and the European border protection agency Frontex in order to detect and stop refugee boats, also possibly forcing them back. Stoltenberg said, Our ships will provide information for the Greek and Turkish coast guard and other national authorities, allowing them to act even more effectively against illegal trafficking networks. We will also establish direct connections to European Frontex so that it can do its job more effectively. In other words, Frontex, supported by NATO warships, should conduct its notorious push-back operations more intensively, i.e. a refugee boat being tracked should be towed back where it came fromfor example, to Turkey. German Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere demanded this last December in an interview with Die Welt. Now it is official EU and NATO policy. Stoltenberg said, If people are rescued who have come through Turkey, they will be returned to Turkey. The operation comes from an initiative by German Chancellor Angela Merkel, agreed at a meeting of NATO defence ministers on 11 February. Berlin is taking over the management of the NATO alliance. In a statement last Thursday, von der Leyen praised the NATO decision under German leadership as being quick and clear. Last Friday, the German supply ship Bonn, which will lead the naval group, set off from the NATO base at Souda in Crete. On board was the German Commodore Jorg Klein, commander of SNMG 2. With the military mission, the German government wants to drastically and sustainably reduce the number of refugees coming to Greece via Turkey, as de Maiziere declared on the periphery of an EU meeting in Brussels. This should happen by March 7. Then a special EU summit would take place attended by Turkey. The official goal of the Merkel government is to commit the Erdogan regime to a dirty deal on fully closing the borders for refugees and to detain refugee boats before they can even leave Turkey. As compensation, the German government will provide financial support to Ankara. Last week in a government statement, Merkel reaffirmed her support for a no-fly zone in Syria, a central demand of the Erdogan government and an important condition for Ankaras military invasion of Syria. The NATO mission in the Aegean not only entails increased support for Turkeys war drive against the Kurds and the Syrian government, but is a direct part of the NATO war preparations against Russia. An official NATO report indicates that the SNMG 2 force had conducted intensive operations with the Turkish Navy in early February. This included carrying out air defence operations, submarine war operations and live firing exercises (GUNEX). Turkish F-16 fighter jets were also involved in the exercise. According to Klein, the aim was to develop the forces own abilities and to consolidate a team out of the units. As well as the German flagship, the team that he is currently leading in the Aegean includes two heavily armed frigates, the Canadian vessel HMCS Fredericton and the Greek ship Salamis (F-455), and a Turkish warship. The SNMG 2 group is part of the NATO Response Force (NRF), the NATO rapid reaction force, which was systematically upgraded last year against Russia. The location and organisation of the exercise alone underscore what NATO is preparing. Russia is currently the only power that is active in the region with larger naval units and warplanes, and is considered as an enemy by NATO. The Russian Air Force is supporting Syrias Assad regime being combatted by the West, and warships of the Russian Black Sea Fleet regularly transit the Aegean between their home ports in the Crimea and Tartus in Syria, where the only Russian naval base is located in the Mediterranean Sea. The increasing NATO presence in the Aegean heightens the risk of a direct clash between NATO and Russia. According to the Russian Defence Ministry, there was a near-collision off the Greek island of Lemnos in December, between a Turkish fishing boat and the Russian destroyer Smetliwij. Russia regarded the incident as a deliberate provocation by the Turkish Navy, and summoned the Turkish military attache in Moscow. Since the shooting down of a Russian fighter jet by Turkey on November 24, 2015, tensions between Turkey and Russia have steadily increased. In its latest edition, news weekly Der Spiegel describes the consequences, including those unintended, of the NATO mission. It says of the growing risk of war between Russia and Turkey: It is the year in which the world stands as close to a nuclear war as never before in the history of the Cold War. Provocations, red lines, which are crossed, airspace violations, a shot-down aircraft. A missile fired in error or a submarine commander who loses his nerve can trigger a world war. 1. The June 23 referendum on Britains membership in the European Union raises issues of immense international importance. The outcome will have implications for workers not only in the UK, but far beyond its shores. 2. The Socialist Equality Party urges workers and young people to boycott the referendum. The Remain and Leave campaigns are both headed by Thatcherite forces that stand for greater austerity, brutal anti-immigrant measures and the destruction of workers rights. Their differences are over how best to defend the interests of British capitalism against its European and international rivals under conditions of economic slump and the escalation of militarism and war. 3. A boycott prepares the ground for the development of an independent political struggle of the British working class against these forces. Such a movement must develop as part of a continent-wide counteroffensive by the working class, which will expose the referendum as only an episode in the deepening existential crisis of the British and European bourgeoisie. 4. The question put before the electorate as to whether to Remain in or Leave the EU conceals everything that must be understood about the implications of both alternatives for the working class. The referendum is the outcome of a manoeuvre by Prime Minister David Cameron in 2013 to prevent a further haemorrhaging of support for the Tories in favour of the United Kingdom Independence Party, even as Cameron sought to utilize the United Kingdom Independence Partys anti-immigrant xenophobia to push official politics further to the right. Voters are being asked to take a position on whether to Remain or Leave based on the four demands agreed by Cameron with other EU leaders: An emergency brake on EU migrants claiming in-work benefits that will last for seven years. Restriction of child benefits for EU migrants to the rate of their home country. A specific opt-out for the UK from the EUs commitment to forge an ever closer union. The right of the UK to impose a temporary brake on financial regulations that impact the City of London. 5. There can be no good outcome of such a plebiscite. Whichever side wins, working people will pay the price. It is not a question of choosing the lesser evilboth options are equally rotten. Any possibility of an independent voice for the working class being registered has been deliberately excluded. A Remain vote means not only endorsing the reactionary institutions of the EU. The terms negotiated by Cameron as the basis of the UK remaining in the EU sanction his governments attacks on migrants and measures to protect the criminal activities of the UKs banks and financial institutions. A Leave vote, however, would be seized on as an endorsement of demands for British sovereignty and independenceeuphemisms for removing all obstacles to the intensified exploitation of the working class and a more ruthless clampdown on immigration. 6. The responsibility of the Socialist Equality Party is to define a policy that upholds the interests of workers not only in Britain, but in Europe as a whole and throughout the world. Every vote or referendum must be evaluated in connection with its specific context. Even then, the tactical approach taken has always to be determined by principled considerations. The SEPs call for a boycott is not made lightly and has nothing in common with political abstention of an anarchist character. Nor is it advanced as a timeless principle. It is a policy motivated by the need to prepare workers and youth for the bitter class conflicts that will inevitably emerge following June 23. Oppose the European Union 7. The SEP is irreconcilably hostile to the European Union, but our opposition is from the left, not the right. The EU is not an instrument for realising the genuine and necessary unification of Europe. It is a mechanism for the subjugation of the continent to the dictates of the financial markets and a forum in which competing states fight amongst themselves and conspire against the working class. That is why, especially since the 2008 financial crash, the EU has shed its previous social democratic and liberal pretensions while facilitating the efforts of the ruling elite to utilise the crisis of its own creation to carry out a social counterrevolution. Billions of euros have been handed over to the banks and speculators while working people have been subjected to unending cuts in jobs, wages and social conditions. Greece and other countries have been bankrupted at the behest of the EU and the European Central Bank and their working populations reduced to penury. 8. This is being accompanied by the deliberate whipping up of the most virulent forms of nationalism and xenophobia. After decades in which Europes governments proclaimed that the continent would never again witness the rule of the swastika and the jackboot, anti-Muslim and anti-immigrant propaganda is employed to provide scapegoats for the social crisis created by austerity and encourage the growth of extreme-right and fascistic movements. Under EU instruction, border fences and concentration camps are being erected as the waves of desperate humanity fleeing the wars, persecution and misery created by the imperialist powers in the Middle East and North Africa find the doors of Fortress Europe slammed shut. 9. The measures directed today against migrant workers will be turned against the entire working class tomorrow. In response to soaring social inequality and growing popular anger, the ruling class is preparing authoritarian forms of rule. It is increasing the powers of the security apparatus, stepping up mass surveillance and destroying democratic rights in the name of the war on terror. 10. The right-wing putsch in Ukraine, in which the EU played a leading role, has been used to legitimise the remilitarisation of the continent as part of US-led provocations against Russia. NATO is set to dispatch thousands of troops to Eastern and Central Europe and the Baltic states, while naval drills are being staged with increasing frequency in the Eastern Mediterranean and the Black Sea. Some 25 years after the dissolution of the Soviet Union, the US is expanding its nuclear missile arsenal in Europe as part of what NATO describes openly as preparations for hybrid warfare against Russia. 11. Europes governments are fully complicit in US aggression, regarding it as an opportunity to realise their own militarist ambitions. Each is looking to increase military spending, even as it savagely attacks workers living conditions. The British parliaments decision to bomb Syria was taken at the same time that Berlin decided in favour of military involvement in the war-ravaged country, as part of its drive to restore Germanys role as a European and world military power. But even as the US and Europe have joined forces to press their imperialist interests in the Middle East and North Africa, tensions have grown between American and European imperialism, as well as between London, Berlin and Paris. These tensions threaten to plunge the continent into military conflict. The Remain campaign 12. No support can be extended to the Remain campaign. This option has the backing of much of Britains corporate elite, who regard EU membership as essential to their ability to compete internationallynot least through a continued offensive against the living standards of the working class throughout the continent. It also has the support of the United States and the major European powers, which fear that a British exit (Brexit) could provide the catalyst for the EUs unravelling and jeopardise the NATO alliance and its agenda of militarism and war. Twelve former heads of the armed forces signed a letter in favour of the Remain campaign, insisting that Britains role in the EU strengthens the security we enjoy as part of NATO, and citing the need to confront Russian aggression. 13. With the Tory party in a state of civil war, the Labour Party and the Trades Union Congress (TUC) have rallied to the defence of EU membership. This only confirms that these organisations are organically incapable of taking a position that is not dictated to them by the ruling classa fact not changed one iota by the election of Jeremy Corbyn as Labour Party leader. Corbyn has come forward as a professional liar and apologist for the EU in an attempt to make it more palatable to those repelled by the noxious chauvinism of the Leave campaign. 14. Corbyn claims that the EU is a source of wealth and jobs and can be reformed to become a Social Europe. Not only does this pass over in silence the social crimes the EU has committed in Greece, Ireland, Spain and Portugal, it is aimed at concealing the refusal of the Labour Party and the TUC to wage any struggle against the austerity drive of the Cameron government by promoting the illusion that this task can be left to Brussels. At the same time, Corbyn echoes the anti-migrant agenda, centring his criticism of Camerons deal with the EU on the complaint that it will do nothing to cut inward migration to Britain. This, and not the actions of the employers and the government, Corbyn blames for driving down pay rates. 15. Corbyns pro-EU rhetoric is echoed by pseudo-left groups such as Left Unity and the Scottish Socialist Party, who hold up Syriza in Greece, Podemos in Spain and Die Linke in Germany as allies in the struggle to democratise Europe. No greater indictment of such claims can be found than the assigning of leadership of this political charade to Yanis Varoufakis, with his Plan B for Europe. As Greeces former finance minister, Varoufakis shares political responsibility with Syriza leader Alexis Tsipras for the betrayal of the struggle of the Greek working class against EU-dictated austerity. He is the archetypal representative of corrupt and privileged upper-middle class layers who regard the EU as their personal milch cow, and who have seized on the economic crisis as an opportunity to further their own careers and gain lucrative posts in government and the state apparatus. Wherever they have assumed such positions, they have attacked the working class with the same vigour as all other capitalist officials and parties. The Leave campaign 16. None of this imparts a progressive character to the Leave campaign, or justifies lending even the most critical support to it. Its claim that the British parliament and its parties are any less instruments for imposing the wishes of finance capital than the EU is a transparent fraud. Every leading Tory involved in the campaign has sat in successive governments that have implemented basic attacks on democratic rights, waged bloody wars and thrown millions into poverty. The United Kingdom Independence Party (UKIP), which strikes a populist pose of opposition to the Westminster elite, is funded overwhelmingly by multi-millionaire financial speculators Stuart Wheeler and Aaron Banks, and former porn publisher Richard Desmond, now owner of Express newspapers. As to their professed concern with democracy, it is telling that one of the Leave campaigns central demands is for the scrapping of the European Convention on Human Rights. 17. The economic agenda of the Leave campaign is framed from the standpoint of the City of London, whose position as a global financial centre is held out as offering the prospect of revisiting the halcyon days of empire. When UKIP et al. speak of leaving Europe in order to turn out to the world, they are asserting the right of British capital to better exploit the investment opportunities offered by countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh and China, where the annual minimum wage ranges from 600 to slightly more than 1,000. To this end, they will demand that workers in Britain sacrifice their wages and working conditions on the altar of the national interest. 18. The Panglossian vision of economic success offered by the Leave campaign is far removed from the reality of a Brexit. Estimates of the impact of leaving the EU on the economy and jobs vary wildly. But a worst-case scenariobased upon a closing off of trade with Europecalculated a loss of gross domestic product of up to 9 percent, equivalent to the 2008 crash. Especially under conditions of a developing global slump, a Brexit would accelerate the fracturing of the entire continent and of the United Kingdom itself, unleashing national and separatist tensions and encouraging protectionism and trade war measures. Seizing on Camerons initiative, the National Front in France is already urging a Franxit, while the far-right Fidesz government in Hungary has called a referendum to endorse anti-migrant quotas. 19. British workers cannot find a way out of the current economic and political impasse on the basis of a nationalist programme. The notion of returning to an isolated and sovereign British state in todays global economy is as archaic as Stonehenge. In his 1934 essay, Nationalism and Economic Life, Trotsky posed the fundamental choice facing humanity as either a descent into nationalist and fascist reaction and war, or a turn towards the building of a new socialist world order. He described as the basic tendency of our century the growing contradiction between the nation and economic life, and posed the question: How may the economic unity of Europe be guaranteed, while preserving complete freedom of cultural development to the people living there? How may unified Europe be included within a coordinated world economy? The solution to this question may be reached not by deifying the nation, but on the contrary by completely liberating productive forces from the fetters imposed upon them by the national state. But the ruling classes of Europe, demoralized by the bankruptcy of military and diplomatic methods, approach the task today from the opposite end, that is, they attempt by force to subordinate economy to the outdated national state decadent fascist nationalism, preparing volcanic explosions and grandiose clashes in the world arena, bears nothing except ruin. All our experiences on this score during the last 25 or 30 years will seem only an idyllic overture compared to the music of hell that is impending. Reject left nationalism 20. The first consideration of socialists is to safeguard not only the present interests of the working class, but also its future. The biggest political danger in this situation is the mixing of class banners on the basis of the espousal of a supposedly left nationalism. It was on the basis of opposition to such a policy that the SEP rejected support for Scottish separatism in the 2014 referendum, characterising it as a retrograde step that cut across the unity of the working class in England and Scotland. Today, the Scottish National Party is threatening a second referendum in the event of a Brexit, on the explicit basis of support for Scotlands membership in the EU. 21. In the June 23 referendum, a politically criminal role is being played by George Galloway, the leader of the nominally anti-war RESPECT party, and pseudo-left organisations such as the state capitalist Socialist Workers Party (SWP) and the Socialist Party (SP), a section of the Committee for a Workers International. They have utilised left phraseology only to align the working class with a right-wing initiative. Galloway has joined public platforms with UKIP to argue for a Brexit, asserting that divisions between left and right and between the working class and the ruling class count for nothing when compared with the necessity to defend national sovereignty. He defined internationalism as the British bourgeoisies right to trade with the Commonwealth, Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, describing them as countries where the sun is rising, not setting... 22. This calculated invocation of Britains imperial past is of a piece with his rallying call, Left, Right, Left Right, forward march to victory on the 23rd of June. On Twitter, Galloway said of UKIP leader Nigel Farage, We are allies in one cause Like Churchill and Stalin... Galloway is fully aware that his analogy will be understood by his audience as an appeal to the jingoism and anti-German sentiment that animates their opposition to the EU. He stands in the politically degraded tradition of Stalinism, with its long history of opportunist alliances with right-wing nationalism. To praise Stalin is to solidarise with the gravedigger of the October 1917 Revolution and the architect of political crimes that cost the lives of millionsa man whose alliance with Churchill was preceded by the Hitler-Stalin pact. 23. Those who claim that their anti-EU campaign is independent of Farage and company are perpetrating a fraud. The Rail, Maritime and Transport union (RMT), the train drivers union ASLEF, the Stalinist Morning Star newspaper and the group Trade Unions Against the EU, along with the pseudo-left SWP, its offshoot Counterfire and the SP, all assert that it is possible to wage a parallel initiative to the official Leave campaign on a progressive and socialist basis. However, their declared opposition to the Tories and UKIP and their invocation of socialist phrases count for little. 24. The lack of seriousness in their approach is epitomised by their focus on the supposed opportunity represented by a Brexit to mess up the Tories and provide a means to remove Cameron. They give no consideration as to who is supposed to be removing Cameron and to what purpose. They are wholly indifferent to the actual forces being strengthened by the Leave campaign. In reality, they are subordinating the working class to an initiative aimed at shifting political life even further along a nationalist trajectory, thereby strengthening and emboldening the far right in the UK and across Europe, while weakening the political defences of the working class. Having helped release the genie of British nationalism, they are politically responsible for its consequences. Lessons of history 25. The lessons of the German workers movement underscore the deadly consequences of aligning the working class with right-wing forces. In December 1929, a referendum was held on the instigation of the German Nationalist Party. It sought to introduce a Law Against the Enslavement of the German People that would formally renounce the Treaty of Versailles and end the payment of reparations to the victorious powers in the First World War. There was mass opposition to the terms of Versailles, but the referendum was recognised by class conscious workers for what it wasan effort to exploit this sentiment by the nationalist right, and especially Hitlers Nazi Party, which used it to establish its national presence. 26. The Communist Party of Germany (KPD) opposed the referendum and turnout was less than 15 percent. However, in its aftermath, under instruction from Stalin and the Comintern, the KPD began a process of wholesale adaptation to German nationalism with the adoption of National Bolshevism. 27. By 1931, the KPDs retreat was such that it lined up with the fascists in supporting what it dubbed the Red Referendum. Initiated by the Nazis, the referendum urged the removal of the Social Democrats from power in Prussia, Germanys largest state, which included the capital Berlin. The KPD supported the referendum on the basis that the Social Democrats were social fascists and were engaged in repression against the working class. Their removal, the KPD claimed, would be a step towards national liberation and a peoples revolution. 28. Trotskys scathing critique of the KPD is equally a devastating indictment of the role being played today by Galloway and the pseudo-left: In the conduct of the Central Committee of the German Communist Party, everything is wrong: the evaluation of the situation is incorrect, the immediate aim incorrectly posed, the means to achieve it incorrectly chosen. 29. The KPD had formed a de facto united front with the fascists, Trotsky explained: If one could designate his party adherence on the ballots, then the referendum would at least have the justification (in the given instance, absolutely insufficient politically) that it would have permitted a count of its forces and by that itself, separate them from the forces of fascism. But German democracy did not trouble in its time to provide for participants in referendums the right to designate their parties. All the voters are fused into one inseparable mass which, on a definite question, gives one and the same answer Whether the fascists vote together with the Communists or not would lose all significance at the moment when the proletariat, by its pressure, overthrows the fascists and takes the power into its own hands... To come out into the streets with the slogan Down with the Bruning-Braun [Centre Party/Social Democratic Party] government at a time when, according to the relationship of forces, it can only be replaced by a government of Hitler-Hugenberg [German National Party], is the sheerest adventurism Consequently, we consider the coincidence of voting with the fascists not from the point of view of some abstract principle, but from the point of view of the actual struggle of the classes for power, and the relationship of forces at a given stage of this struggle. For an active boycott 30. Trotskys insistence on a concrete appraisal of the relationship of class forces informs the SEPs attitude towards the June 23 referendum. There are occasions in which it would be entirely correct to endorse a vote to quit the EU. Under conditions of a movement of the working class involving mass strikes and appeals for solidarity with the Greek masses and other victims of EU diktats, a vote to leave would acquire an anti-capitalist character. 31. This is not the case today. This is the political responsibility of the pseudo-left groups, all of whom hailed Syriza as a model for waging a struggle against EU austerity. Had Syriza honoured the massive mandate of the July 5, 2015 referendum in Greece and taken up a political struggle against the EU, the entire political situation in Europe would have been altered. The Brexit vote would be taking place under conditions where the working class was shaping events instead of right-wing political forces. But then it could be expected that neither Cameron nor UKIP would be pressing for a ballot. 32. Given todays specific circumstances, an active boycott provides the only means through which workers and young people can express an independent class standpoint. Our call is based upon the position advocated by Lenin in 1905 in relation to the reactionary constitution drafted by the Russian minister of the interior, Alexander Bulygin. Urging a boycott of the parliament, or Duma, as part of a revolutionary struggle against Tsarism, Lenin explained: If we are not mistaken this idea is already fairly widespread among the comrades working in Russia, who express it in the words: an active boycott. As distinct from passive abstention, an active boycott should imply increasing agitation tenfold, organising meetings everywhere, taking advantage of election meetings, even if we have to force our way into them, holding demonstrations, political strikes, and so on and so forth.... 33. The SEP conceives of an active boycott not as an individual protest, but as a means of beginning the political clarification of the working class and countering the disorientation created by the Labour and trade union bureaucracy and its pseudo-left apologists. We will utilise the active boycott campaign to provide workers and youth with a conscious political orientation and leadership. For the United Socialist States of Europe 34. The campaign for the active boycott is intimately bound up with the task of transforming the International Committee of the Fourth International (ICFI) into the international centre of revolutionary opposition to militarism and war. We will work in close collaboration with our European and international co-thinkers, especially the Socialist Equality Party of Germany, to popularise and promote the ICFIs manifesto Socialism and the Fight Against War, which lays down four criteria on which a new anti-war movement must be based: The struggle against war must be based on the working class, the great revolutionary force in society, uniting behind it all progressive elements in the population. The new anti-war movement must be anti-capitalist and socialist, since there can be no serious struggle against war except in the fight to end the dictatorship of finance capital and the economic system that is the fundamental cause of militarism and war. The new anti-war movement must therefore, of necessity, be completely and unequivocally independent of, and hostile to, all political parties and organizations of the capitalist class. The new anti-war movement must, above all, be international, mobilizing the vast power of the working class in a unified global struggle against imperialism. The permanent war of the bourgeoisie must be answered with the perspective of permanent revolution by the working class, the strategic goal of which is the abolition of the nation-state system and the establishment of a world socialist federation. This will make possible the rational, planned development of global resources and, on this basis, the eradication of poverty and the raising of human culture to new heights. 35. Against the national chauvinism and xenophobia promoted by both sides in the referendum campaign, the working class must advance its own internationalist programme to unify the struggles of workers throughout Europe in defence of living standards and democratic rights. The alternative for workers to the Europe of the transnational corporations is the struggle for the United Socialist States of Europe. 36. The post-1945 project of European unification was an attempt by the ruling elites to resolve the fundamental contradiction that had twice in the 20th century plunged the continent into warbetween the integrated character of European and global production and the division of the continent into antagonistic nation states. Economic integration came to be considered as essential to enable Europe to compete effectively in the global marketplace against the United States, with the ultimate aim of an accompanying move towards political union. At the same time, US imperialism promoted the integration of capitalist Europe as a bulwark against the Soviet Union and the threat of socialist revolution by a militant and radicalized European working class. But unity within the framework of capitalism could never mean anything other than the domination of the most powerful nations and corporations over the continent and its peoples. Rather than national and social antagonisms being alleviated, they have taken on malignant forms. 37. The EU is breaking apart and cannot be revived. It is only through the creation of the United Socialist States of Europe, established as an integral component of a world federation of socialist states, that the vast productive forces of the continent can be utilised for the benefit of all. Throughout Europe there are growing indications of a coming eruption of the class struggle. Mass opposition already exists to the devastating impact of austerity, the assault on democratic rights, military barbarism and colonial-style wars of conquest. But this presently finds no political expression. The SEP and the ICFI offer a perspective on the basis of which the rising oppositional sentiment in the working class can coalesce and become a mighty and unstoppable revolutionary force. We urge all those who agree with us to join the SEP and build it as the new revolutionary leadership of the working class. No to the European UnionNo to British nationalism! For the unity of the British and European working class! For the United Socialist States of Europe! Protests broke out over the weekend in Salt Lake City, Utah, after police shot a teenage boy, Abdi Mohamed, Saturday night. Mohamed remains in critical condition, and more protests are planned throughout the week. On Sunday, the Salt Lake City Police Department (SLCPD) announced that it would not be releasing video footage from the body cameras of the two offers involved in the shooting, citing an ongoing investigation. The officers names have also not been released. Witnesses told local news that a fight broke out between Mohamed, 17, and an unidentified older man shortly before 8:00 p.m., and Mohamed picked up a nearby broom handle. Police already in the area responding to another call ordered Mohamed to drop the broom handle and then immediately opened fire. The man that police claim Mohamed and another individual were hitting with sticks did not require medical attention. One witness, Selam Mohammed, told Fox13: The police said 'drop it once, then they shot him four times. We were trying to break it up before the police even came, but the police ran in on foot and pulled their guns out already. They already had them, like, as soon as [the officer] was running he was already grabbing for his gun, not even trying to Tase him or anything. Abdi Mohamed is from Kenya and moved to the US 10 years ago with his family. He lives in West Valley City, a Salt Lake City suburb, with his girlfriend, Becca Monson, and their son. He was a really caring, good, loving boyfriend, and a really good, caring, loving father, Monson told Fox. He just wanted to make sure we were loved and we were happy. The SLCPD told reporters Saturday night that at least two officers were involved in the shooting. Crowds of people at the scene started yelling at police and throwing rocks and bottles. The shooting took place near a shopping mall and the Road Home, a homeless shelter. The police responded by calling in backup from neighboring police departments. Over 100 officers showed up in riot gear to disperse the crowds and barricade a four-block area around the scene. Public transportation in the area was shut down for three hours. Witnesses told reporters that the police used pepper spray and Tasers on the crowds. SLCPD acknowledged that they had detained some protesters, but they have not confirmed how many or what they were arrested for. Detective Ken Hansen, with the Unified Police Department, told reporters that there were pockets of that disturbance for hours. Police kill on average three people a day in the United States and injure significantly more. According to the Guardian, 169 people have been killed by police so far this year, following 1,140 last year. A separate tally, by killedbypolice.net, put the number of individuals killed in 2015 at 1,205. Popular anger over police brutality finds no expression within the political system where Democrats and Republicans have jointly supported the militarization of police under the guise of combating terrorism. While the media continues to eulogize the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia as a towering legal figure and a brilliant intellectual, it has emerged that his death on February 13 occurred during a junket with an exclusive aristocratic hunting society. The International Order of St. Hubertus, a European knightly order dating from 17th century Bohemia, is dedicated to preserving hunting as a ritual pastime of the nobility. Members of the exclusive men-only society, founded in 1695 by Count Franz Anton von Sporck, wear green ceremonial robes decorated with a large Christian cross. They use the Latin motto Deum Diligite Animalia Diligentes (honoring God by honoring his creatures). On February 24, the Washington Post reported that John Poindexter, the owner of the exclusive Cibolo Creek Ranch in Texas, where Scalia was visiting at the time of his death, is a leading member of the order. Scalia traveled to the ranch on a private plane with C. Allen Foster, a prominent Washington lawyer who is a secretary and knight grand officer of the order. Other high-ranking members of the order took private flights around the same time. Scalia declined the protection of the US Marshals Service, which would otherwise provide his security, for his trip to the ranch. In 2006, the Washington Post reported that Scalias friend Foster marked his 65th birthday with a six-day celebration in the Czech Republic. He flew his family and 40 Washington friends there to stay in Moravias Zidlochovice, a baroque castle and hunting park, the newspaper explained. The birthday bash included tours of the Czech countryside, wine tasting, wild boar and mouflon (wild sheep) hunts, classic dance instruction and a masked costume ball. Fosters list of former clients includes the Republican Party, tobacco advertisers, the director of the failed Washington National Bank, companies accused of civil rights violations, the mercenary company Blackwater Security Consulting and the right-wing Cato Institute. Foster is also the director of the Young Womens Christian Association and a companion of the Order of St. John of Jerusalem. The Washington Post reported that in 2010, Poindexter hosted a group of 53 members of the Houston chapter of the International Order of St. Hubertus at the Cibolo Creek Ranch, according to a Houston society publication. The International Order of St. Hubertus, says the societys web site, is a true knightly order in the historical tradition. The web site continues: The Order is under the Royal Protection of His Majesty Juan Carlos of Spain, the Grand Master Emeritus His Imperial and Royal Highness Archduke Andreas Salvator of Austria and our Grand Master is His Imperial and Royal Highness Istvan von Habsburg Lothringen, Archduke of Austria, Prince of Hungary. The identification of the order with the old establishment of Europe is underscored by the fact that in 1938, after Austria was absorbed into the German Reich, Herman Goring demanded membership in the Order and executed the Grand Prior when he was denied. (Adolf Hitler appointed Goring as Reich master of the hunt in 1933 and master of the German forests in 1934. An avid hunter, Goring built two aristocratic hunting lodges.) In March of 2013, the web site continues, HIH [His Imperial Highness] Archduke Istvan von Habsburg-Lothringen became the fifth Grand Master of the Order Archduke Andreas assumed the office of Grand Master Emeritus and King [of Spain] Juan Carlos continues to offer the order his protection. Officers of the Order of St. Hubertus receive titles like grand master and knight grand officer, and members apparently refer to themselves as knights. The American chapter of the order was founded in 1968. The first Investiture of American Knights took place at the Bohemian Club in San Francisco. The ceremony was presided over by then Grand Master Karl Messany, the orders web site explains. The American chapter of the order is comprised of approximately 250 people, according to 2013 financial filings, and brought in $160,000 in donations. Membership in the order requires an $800 application fee and sponsorship. Formal investiture involves a medieval ceremony in which an old dagger is used to knight the subject. Scalias furtive association with such an outfit underscores the fundamentally reactionary and anti-democratic character not just of one right-wing justice, but of the Supreme Court as an institution and the capitalist state as a whole. Scalias fascistic inclinations were well known, but he was not only tolerated, he was generally celebrated by the political and media establishment, including its spineless so-called liberal wing. This is despite his role in the infamous Bush v. Gore ruling in February of 2000 that halted vote-counting in Florida and handed the White House to the loser of the presidential election, and his open defense of torture, racial discrimination and state repression. Scalias theory of constitutional jurisprudence, originalism, purported to involve ascertaining the original meaning of the American Constitution. In practice, Scalias application of this doctrine was entirely tendentious and arbitrary. Notwithstanding his originalism, Scalias relations with the Order of St. Hubertus may have violated the text of the Constitution. Article I, Section 9, Clause 8 (the Titles of Nobility Clause) of the Constitution, which was ratified in 1788, provides: No title of nobility shall be granted by the United States: and no person holding any office of profit or trust under them, shall, without the consent of the Congress, accept of any present, emolument, office, or title, of any kind whatever, from any king, prince, or foreign state. Scalias affiliation with such figures as Poindexter and Foster is entirely consistent with his judicial legacy, which includes the promotion of authoritarian executive powers and backwardness and bigotry on every social question. As a judge who was vigorously opposed to the principle of separation of church and state, it is not entirely surprising to find Scalia in the company of wealthy would-be aristocrats with Crusader-like crosses emblazoned on their medieval costumes. Whatever the details of Scalias relations with the Order of St. Hubertus, the circumstances of his trip highlight the corrupt relations between justices on Americas highest court and the rest of the ruling class. Scalia was not the only Supreme Court justice to have traveled on privately paid trips. In fact, it is a common practice among the supposedly liberal justices as well. The Center for Responsive Politics published the following statistics on the Supreme Court justices for the years 2004 to 2014: Scalia took 258 trips in 11 years (23.5 trips per year), Stephen Breyer took 185 trips in 11 years (16.8 trips per year), Sonia Sotomayor took 67 trips in 5 years (13.4 trips per year), Anthony Kennedy took 132 trips in 11 years (12.0 trips per year), Ruth Bader Ginsburg took 117 trips in 11 years (10.6 trips per year), Samuel Alito took 83 trips in 9 years (10.1 trips per year), Elena Kagan took 33 trips in 4 years (8.3 trips per year), Clarence Thomas took 86 trips in 11 years (7.8 trips per year) and Chief Justice John Roberts took 48 trips in 10 years (4.8 trips per year). These private trips to exclusive and luxurious resorts around the world often coincided with cases before the Supreme Court. Poindexter, who hosted Scalias final junket, owned a company that was accused of age discrimination in a lawsuit that came before the Supreme Court last year. The Supreme Court denied review of the case. Before participating in the infamous Citizens United decision in 2010 that struck down limits on corporate campaign finance bribes in elections, Scalia and Thomas both attended a retreat in California sponsored by the right-wing financier Charles G. Koch. Scalia infamously went on a hunting trip with then-Vice President Dick Cheney while a case involving Cheney was before the Supreme Court. In a recent report entitled Antonin Scalia: The Billion-Dollar Supreme Court Justice, David Dayen of the Intercept noted that Dow Chemical has settled a $1.06 billion adverse class-action antitrust ruling for $835 million. The company had appealed the decision to the Supreme Court, but decided to pay substantially all of the judgment after Scalias death rather than allowing the case to come before the high court minus its leading reactionary. The author also recommends: The glorification of Antonin Scalia [16 February 2016] The legacy of Antonin Scalia [15 February 2016] Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton won the South Carolina Democratic primary Saturday by a huge margin, defeating Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders by 74 percent to 26 percent. Clinton won 39 delegates to the Democratic nominating convention, compared to 14 for Sanders. It was Clintons first substantial victory in the campaign for the Democratic presidential nomination, following narrow wins in caucuses in Iowa and Nevada and a sizeable defeat in the first primary, in New Hampshire. She now leads in total elected delegates, 91 to 65, with some 2,500 required for nomination. Clinton ran up huge totals among African-American voters in the state, with an overall margin of 86 percent to 14 percent, including a 96 percent to 3 percent margin among black voters over 65. Sanders won only two demographic groups tracked in exit polls: white voters and voters under age 30. Clinton had the support of virtually all the states Democratic Party officeholders, including its only Democratic congressman, Jim Clyburn, the deputy minority whip, the third-ranking Democrat in the House, and a member of the Congressional Black Caucus, which also endorsed Clinton. Voter turnout plunged in the South Carolina primary compared to 2008, when Clinton was badly beaten by Barack Obama. Clinton won fewer votes in the two-person contest with Sanders than Obama won in a three-way contest with Clinton and John Edwards eight years ago. The total vote in South Carolina primaries for both big business parties, held a week apart, was 978,000 in 2008 and 999,000 in 2016, but the balance between the Republicans and Democrats shifted dramatically. In 2008, 532,000 voted in the Democratic primary and 446,000 in the Republican. This year, only 361,000 voted in the Democratic primary while 738,000 voted in the Republican contest, won by billionaire demagogue Donald Trump. Sanders poured significant resources into the state, including 200 volunteers and nearly $2 million in campaign advertising, but effectively conceded the contest earlier this week as polls showed Clinton with an insuperable lead. The main focus of the Clinton campaign was to appeal to identity politics, based on Clintons gender and her past close ties with the black Democratic Party establishment, while claiming that Sanderss rhetorical attacks on Wall Street and economic inequality made his a single issue campaign. Sanders has attacked Clinton for her close ties to the major banks, demanding that she release the transcripts of speeches to audiences at Goldman Sachs and other financial institutions, for which she received six-figure fees. He told a campaign rally Thursday, I do not receive many millions of dollars from Wall Street or the pharmaceutical industry or other powerful, wealthy interests in this country, and have not given speeches for hundreds of thousands of dollars to Wall Street. But he has avoided any discussion of foreign policy, and particularly the aggressive preparation by the Obama administration for wider military action in the Middle East and provocative deployments against Russia and China, confining his criticism to Clintons vote 14 years ago for war in Iraq. There are 11 states with Democratic Party contests Tuesday. Clinton is heavily favored in polls taken in the six Southern states voting March 1Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Tennessee, Texas and Virginiawhich account for two-thirds of the delegates to be selected that day. Sanders has focused on the other five states, where he is in the lead or competitive: primaries in Massachusetts, Oklahoma and Vermont, and caucuses in Colorado and Minnesota. He addressed a series of large rallies this week, including 10,000 in Austin, Texas, 8,000 in Dallas and 7,000 in Tulsa, Oklahoma, finishing Saturday by speaking to supporters in Rochester, Minnesota. Because of proportional representation, Clinton would not be able to clinch the nomination even if she wins the vast majority of the states on Super Tuesday. Unlike the Republican contest, there is no winner-take-all provision at any stage in the Democratic primary process. In multiple appearances on Sunday morning television talk shows, Sanders dismissed suggestions that a poor showing on Super Tuesday would mark an end to his campaign, declaring that he had many states ahead for potential victories, including California, the most populous state and the last to hold a primary on June 7. Amid rising tensions in Europe and popular anger with the draconian austerity policies Paris is imposing under the state of emergency, factional warfare has erupted inside the ruling Socialist Party (PS). Last Thursday, Lille mayor and 2012 presidential hopeful Martine Aubry published a full-page commentary in Le Monde, co-signed with a number of PS legislators and Daniel Cohn-Bendit of the German Green Party, criticizing President Francois Hollandes policies. Aubry signaled her support for the general line of the PS reactionary policies. She was silent on the wars being waged by NATO, said that she approved the state of emergency, and insisted that, on social and labor issues, the PS must impose big reforms. Rather, her article, titled What is being prepared is the lasting weakening of France, called for a tactical shift, attacking Hollandes policies as posing a fundamental threat to France and to the PS. What threatens is no longer just simply the failure of the current presidential term, but the lasting weakening of France and quite evidently of the left, if we do not stop the downward spiral in which we are being dragged, she wrote. She criticized Hollandes planned Labor Code reform, his proposal to deprive those convicted of various offenses of French nationality, and Premier Manuel Valls criticisms of German refugee policy at the recent Munich Security Conference. There, Valls called for a more restrictive refugee policy and made overtures to Moscow. Aubrys criticismscoming amid anger among youth and workers over the state of emergency and a reform to the Labor Code allowing companies to negotiate draconian changes in contracts with the unions and speed up mass sackingsled to a limited climb-down from the PS government. Economy Minister Emmanuel Macron pledged to continue negotiating some aspects of the Labor Code reform with the trade unions: We are at a point in the presidential term where we cannot just brutalize everything, because that risks ending debate for a long time without having resolved all the problems. The significance of Aubrys letter is not, however, in whatever minor modifications the unions work out on the Labor Code reform, with whose basic principletheir right to negotiate contracts violating the Labor Codethey have already signaled their agreement. Rather, her letter points to escalating geo-strategic divisions inside Europe, and particularly Aubrys fear that Hollande will shatter the PS, which has ever since its foundation shortly after the 1968 general strike been one of Frances main parties of government. On Valls attack against Berlin, Aubry joined a number of commentators who have said that his apparent consideration of a Franco-Russian axis aimed at Germany on the refugee issue, echoing the alliance structure that developed in Europe in the lead-up to World War I, was a serious mistake. Writing in The Guardian shortly after the conference, former Le Monde editor Natalie Nougayrede declared: Paris would do well to rebuild bridges with Berlinand fast. Merkel has kept silent on this pitiful episode, but dont think the damage isnt real. Aubry echoed these remarks, declaring, Last week, there was the wound inflicted by the indecent speech at Munich on refugees. Claiming a liberty of tone does not excuse everything. No, Mr prime minister, Angela Merkel is not naive. Frances mission is not to erect walls but to build bridges. The bulk of Aubrys comments were, however, addressed to fear that Hollande could do irreparable damage to European social-democracy and in particular to the PS. By relying on a lasting state of emergency, appealing to neo-fascist sentiment, and imposing deep austerity, the PS is raising before masses of working people the utter fraudulence of its claim that it has anything to do with socialism. Without referring to the record of the deprivation of nationality policywhich French fascist authorities at Vichy used during World War II against Jews in Occupied France, before they were deported to death camps across EuropeAubry criticized Hollandes resort to it. She indicated that a section of the PS, of its parliamentary allies, and even of explicitly right-wing parties did not feel they could support the proposed constitutional amendment adopting the policy. She wrote, Put in the hands of future governments with bad intentions, it opens the way to all sorts of abuse. Going to the Congress at Versailles under these conditions would fracture the left and even the democratic camp. Let us avoid this. To the deprivation of nationality, let us substitute a sentence of deprivation of citizenship or of national degradation, specified by law, applicable to all terrorists, whatever their origins. She warned that the Labor Code reform had provoked not disappointment but anger, and that the Hollande administrations attempt to falsely present it as a job creation measure would backfire: Workers will face permanent blackmail, and companies will face distorted competition [And] who will you convince that this will help create jobs? Slashing protections for workers against sackings will certainly produce more sackings! Having assembled this fairly devastating summary of the reactionary and treacherous role of her own party, Aubry warned: Values, ambitions on social issues, universal human rights, the balance of powerswhat will remain of the ideals of socialism when, day after day, its basic principles and foundations will have been undermined? In fact, what Aubrys comments show is that the conception of socialism that predominated for decades in official circles in France and much of Europethat is, as policies carried out under capitalism by bourgeois politicians hostile to the working classis a fraud and a lie. The more profound character of the political forces that came together to form the PS in the late 1960s is being exposed. The PS assembled figures of the old bourgeois Radical Party tied to the Vichy regime, like the first PS President Francois Mitterrand; social-Catholic elements like Aubrys father Jacques Delors; figures of the old social-democratic French Section of the Workers International (SFIO) discredited by their war in Algeria; and a smattering of social-democrats and ex-Trotskyist and ex-Stalinist figures in the United Socialist Party (PSU). Over decades the PS spent ruling France and waging austerity and war, these forces did everything they could to discredit the Marxist conception of socialism, upheld by the Trotskyist movement, as the outcome of revolutionary struggle for social equality led by the world working class. However, the deepest economic crisis of capitalism since the Great Depression of the 1930s, and the PS ever wilder shift to the right, as it now seeks to rehabilitate despicable policies like deprivation of nationality, has undermined the old political equilibrium upon which the PS rested. If Aubry is concerned that Hollande has undermined her false conception of socialism, it is that the conditions are emerging for the masses of workers to turn to a struggle for socialism and against capitalism in opposition to the PS and its political allies in France and across Europe. Sri Lankan Foreign Minister Mangala Samaraweera and his delegation held the first-ever US-Sri Lanka Partnership Dialogue meeting in Washington last Friday. The talks chaired by Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Thomas Shannon marked the further integration of Colombo into the US pivot to Asia and military build-up throughout the region against China. The US State Department blandly declared: The Partnership Dialogue is a regularly planned policy consultation designed to advance our common agenda and opportunities for cooperation across the full range of bilateral and regional issues. For Sri Lanka, however, the talks were undoubtedly a rather one-sided monologue with the United States laying out its requirements for the Colombo government. The Obama administration is elated by the shift in foreign policy since the election of President Maithripala Sirisena in January 2015. In introducing Samaraweera before the meeting began, US Secretary of State John Kerry showered praises on the Sri Lankan government, declaring: We are very much looking forward to defining the roadmap ahead for continued progress. Samaraweera responded by fully agreeing with Kerry that a very special friendship has been developing between US and Sri Lanka. Since Sirisena came to power, the US has strengthened ties with Colombo through a succession of high-level official visits, including by Kerry and the US Ambassador to the UN, Samantha Power. The Obama administration was instrumental in the last years ouster of President Mahinda Rajapakse and the installation of Sirisena. The regime-change operation was carried out with the support of Ranil Wickremesinghe, leader of the United National Party (UNP) and now prime minister, and former President Chandrika Kumaratunga, a leading figure in Rajapakses Sri Lanka Freedom Party (SLFP) with close connections in Washington. Following parliamentary elections in August, Sirisena, also from the SLFP, formed a national unity government with Wickremesinghe and the UNP. Washington backed Rajapakses war against separatist Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) but opposed his increasing economic and political ties with Beijing. India, which is developing strategic ties with the US, also opposed the growing Chinese influence in Colombo and backed the regime change. Having turned a blind eye to the Sri Lankan militarys atrocities during the final offensives against the LTTE, the US cynically exploited the issue to pressure Rajapakse to distance himself from Beijing. The US moved a resolution at the UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) for an international investigation into Sri Lankan war crimes only to change its tune when Sirisena came to power. A new US-backed UNHRC resolution gave the green light for a bogus domestic inquiry with international support that will enable Colombo to whitewash the militarys human rights abuses. No details of the Partnership Dialogue discussion have been released. A State Department communique declared that the talks focused on democratic governance, development cooperation, people-to-people ties, economic cooperation, security cooperation, international and regional affairs, and other issues of mutual interest. There is no doubt, however, that strategic collaboration was high on the agenda. Washington is developing its strategic partnership with India while deepening military alliances with Japanese and Australian imperialism. It is also encouraging the Philippines and Vietnam to aggressively assert their territorial claims in South China Sea against China. During their visits to Colombo, Kerry in May and Under Secretary Shannon in December stressed the strategic importance of Sri Lanka for the US. After announcing the partnership dialogue meeting, Shannon declared that Sri Lanka sits at the crossroads of Africa, South Asia, and East Asia. By the middle of this century, economists predict that Asia will account for 50 percent of the worlds GDP. He continued: Countless ships sail past Sri Lanka along the sea lanes between the Straits of Hormuz and Malacca. Forty percent of all seaborne oil passes through the former, and half the worlds merchant fleet capacity sails through the latter. To put it simply, the stability and prosperity of the entire world is dependent on the stability of these vital energy and trade routes. And Sri Lanka is at the center of this. In reality, the US is seeking to secure control of these sea lanes, not out of concern for stability, but as part of its war plans against China, which include an economic blockade. China is heavily dependent on these shipping routes for vital imports of energy and raw material from Africa and the Middle East. One of the first steps of the Sirisena-Wickremesinghe government was to put the multi-billion dollar Colombo Port City Project (CPCP) funded by China on hold. The decision was a major setback for Beijing which considered the project as part of its Maritime Silk Road initiative to guarantee oil supplies and trade via the Indian Ocean. Colombo has indicated that the project will be restarted on different terms as a multi-lateral venture involving other partners thus diluting Chinese involvement. The US is also quietly developing its military collaboration with Sri Lanka. In an interview with the India-based rediff.com, US Assistant Secretary for State for South and Central Asia Nisha Biswal declared: Certainly, the security partnership is an area of discussion. We are also open to exploring areas of cooperation between the United States and Sri Lankas military. During his visit to New York last year to participate in the UN General Assembly, President Sirisena agreed that Sri Lankan soldiers would participate in peacekeeping forces. The US has been pushing for Sri Lankan contingents in UN operations. Facing a deepening social and economic crisis at home, the Sri Lankan government is desperate for foreign investment. While in Washington, Samaraweera made an appeal to US corporations in a speech to the Institute of Peace on Advancing reconciliation and development in Sri Lanka. After saying that Colombo was now addressing human rights and democratic governance, the foreign minister moved on to make a pitch to investors. Samaraweera declared that the government was taking measures to increase investors ease of doing business and confidence and reviewing laws related to land and business. He then boasted that Sri Lanka had one of the lowest income tax rates in the worldat 15 percent. Significantly, Samaraweera explained that the government is very seriously exploring the possibility of applying to join the Trans-Pacific Partnership. The TPP is the economic arm of the pivot to Asia aimed at ensuring, as Obama has put it, that the US, not China, sets the economic rules of the 21st century. Sri Lankan government has deliberately kept workers in Sri Lanka in the dark about the implications of its deepening relations with US imperialism. As it integrates the island into US war preparations against China, it is intensifying the attacks on the living standards and democratic rights of working people to provide a business-friendly environment for investors. Faced with the threat of a catastrophic war between nuclear-armed powers, workers and youth must oppose the drive to war of US imperialism and its various allies and lackeys such as the Sirisena-Wickremesinghe government in Colombo. The only way to end the descent into war is by building a unified anti-war movement of the working class in Sri Lanka, South Asia and around the world based on socialist principles to put an end to capitalism and its outmoded nation-state system. This is the perspective fought for by the International Committee of the Fourth International and its Sri Lankan section, the Socialist Equality Party. Two days after the announcement of a US-Russian brokered truce, fighting continues throughout Syria. US war planes continue to strike targets throughout large areas of the country, while American commandos organized offensive operations by an array of proxy forces. Over the weekend, the US military announced it would launch new cyberwarfare operations in Syria, nominally against ISIS militants. On Friday, US Defense Secretary Ashton Carter hailed the seizure of the town of Shaddadi by US commandos and proxy forces, saying the development has vindicated the US approach of enabling Kurdish and Sunni militias with intelligence, air support and logistics. US-led partner forces are also preparing offensives against Raqqa, Syria and Mosul, Iraq, Carter said. This is just the most recent example of how were effectively enabling and partnering with local forces, Carter said. The ceasefire agreement itself does not represent a meaningful de-escalation of the war. The announcement of the truce has been accompanied by new offensives by the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS), as well as the al Nusra Front and other US-backed proxy militias. On Sunday, US-led coalition forces carried out at least 12 strikes on Syrian soil, including near Raqqah, Manbij and Tal Abyad. The American media has played its dutiful role, portraying the continued fighting as a matter of Russian aggression, based on accusations that the Putin government has continued to strike moderate fighting groups in a number of towns and villages in northern Syria and along the Turkish border. Syrias cease-fire frays as Russia resumes strikes, the Washington Post declared Sunday evening, citing a handful of Russian strikes against unidentified targets in northern Syria. Russia, Syria resume airstrikes despite cease-fire, ran the Wall Street Journals headline. Pentagon, CIA Chiefs Dont Think Russia Will Abide by Syria Cease Fire, the Journal warned earlier this week. Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir echoed the accusations against Russia in comments that he delivered in Riyadh alongside Danish Foreign Minister Kristian Jensen. Al-Jubeir repeated warnings that the Saudis are ready to join in US-led military operations against the Damascus regime. Russian officials countered these claims, with Moscow maintaining that on the whole, the ceasefire regime in Syria is being implemented, according to Russian media. Russian ceasefire monitors claim that opposition groups carried out at least nine violations of the truce within the first day. Among the violations was an incursion by Islamic State fighters against the Kurdish-controlled area of Tal Abyad. According to Russian General Sergei Kurylenko, the IS assault took place with direct fire support from the Turkish military, including artillery fire from Turkish territory. Within the American ruling class there are deep divisions over the cessation of hostilities brokered by US Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov last week. Powerful factions within the Central Intelligence Agency and Pentagon are hostile to the truce deal and are pressing for strategic and military escalation against Russia. After nearly five years of continuous covert warfare and subversion against Damascus, destroying hundreds of thousands of lives, the Obama administration seeks to use the ceasefire to regroup its own proxy forces in Syria. The Obama administration is probing the possibility of a negotiated carve-up of Syria, while at the same time working to outline a Plan B scenario, i.e., a huge military offensive to topple Assad. This could quickly bring the US into direct military conflict with Russia. The continued fighting in Syria comes amidst an intensification of provocative declarations from US and NATO officials directed at Russia. Speaking before a Congressional panel on Thursday, NATOs Supreme Allied Commander in Europe, General Philip Breedlove, denounced Russian aggression, saying that Moscow has chosen to be an adversary and poses a long-term existential threat to the US. Breedlove added that the US and its European allies are deterring Russia now and preparing to fight and win if necessary. The author also recommends: The US Plan B for Syria and the threat of world war [12 February 2016] Several tens of thousands demonstrated in London Saturday in opposition to the planned renewal of the UK Trident nuclear missile system. The protest was called by the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament (CND). A parliamentary vote on renewing Trident, which is housed on four submarines located in Scotland, is to be held later this year. Demonstrators assembled in Marble Arch, then marched to Trafalgar Square. The keynote speaker on the platform was Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn. But he was joined by Scottish National Party leader Nicola Sturgeon, Plaid Cymru (Party of Wales) leader Leanne Wood and Green Party MP Caroline Lucas. This was the first time since Corbyn was elected that the progressive alliance of the four pro-capitalist parties, urged by the nationalists and Greens during the 2014 general election, has taken shapebut only with Corbyn acting against his partys official stance. Also speaking was Kate Hudson, the General Secretary of Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, Tariq Ali, the bourgeois commentator and leading Pabloite, and the actress and former member of the Workers Revolutionary Party Vanessa Redgrave. In his speech, Corbyn made no mention of the advanced preparation for war being conducted by the United States and the European imperialist powers, including Britain. After stating, If a nuclear war took place, there would be mass destruction on both sides of the conflict, he called on the ruling elite to see sense: We live in a world where so many things are possible. Where peace is possible in so many places. You dont achieve peace by planning for war and not respecting human rights. Neither did he mention the unprecedented intervention by an unnamed serving British general, just eight days after his election as labour leader last September, who told the Sunday Times that if Corbyn came to power, There would be mass resignations at all levels and you would face the very real prospect of an event which would effectively be a mutiny. In November, these threats by the military were stepped up, as the Conservative government, in alliance with senior Labourites, pressed for war against Syria. That month, Chief of the Defence Staff Sir Nicholas Houghton, asked by the BBCs Andrew Marr about Corbyns statement that he would never authorise the use of nuclear weapons, replied, Well, it would worry me if that thought was translated into power. Houghton had earlier told the media that the UK was letting down its allies by not participating in bombing missions in Syria. Redgrave described the occasion, along with the birth of her children, as the best day of my life. She presented an entirely moral case against Trident, stating, Leaders who choose nuclear weapons and close down maternity wards and paediatric units, Accident and Emergency [wards], have chosen death over life. She concluded, Im so proud to be with you all today and with Jeremy, Nicola, the [trade] unions, everybody else. In January Corbyn, a lifelong opponent of nuclear weapons, told the BBCs Andrew Marr Show that a defence review he has called was looking at a compromise in which Trident could be replaced, but that the submarines dont have to have nuclear warheads on them. Corbyn coupled this ludicrous proposal with a deliberate playing down of the escalating threat of a war between nuclear powers, adding, I think the nuclear weapons system is something of the cold war generation. I dont believe that in the insecurities of today, nuclear weapons are a solution. The majority of the Labour leadership, who Corbyn has refused to oppose on any issue of principle since he was elected leader, support the renewal of Trident. After Corbyns BBC appearance John Woodcock, the MP for Barrow in Furness, where the Vanguard submarine fleet is built, said, "Having a deterrent that has no capacity to deter is like having an army with broken rifles and no ammunition." Following Corbyns appearance on the CND demonstration, Michael Dugher, the right-wing Labourite who was part of Corbyns first shadow cabinet until being removed in a reshuffle last month, said, Ive nothing against old friends getting together at the weekend for a nice walk. But for Jeremy to share a platform with many of Labours political opponents and denounce what is still Labour Party policy is quite frankly barmy. The most important political intervention from within Labours ranks in support of Trident came in the lead up to Saturdays demonstration by the Labour Deputy Leader Tom Watson. Speaking to the Engineering Employers Federation in London this week, Watson vowed to work with the Cameron government to get the 41 billion renewal of Trident through parliament. He said, Im in favour of a continuous at sea nuclear deterrent. My party's policy favours a continuous at sea nuclear deterrent. He added, You may have read that this view is not shared by all our MPs. But I have made it clear to [Prime Minister] David Cameron that if he honours his promise of a vote on Trident I will support it. In a statement summing up the right-wing militarist agenda Labour continues to uphold under Corbyn, Watson concluded, There are enough Labour MPs to guarantee that the vote is won. I know the PM is currently preoccupied with the European Referendum, but I happen to believe that the sooner this vote is tabled, the greater certainty we can give to industry, our allies and our enemies, that British Industry will deliver the Trident project in good time. Alongside Watson, another senior Labour leader demanding the renewal of Trident is Hilary Benn, who at the time, acting as Corbyns Foreign Secretary, was one of 66 Labour MPs who voted for war in Syria, after being given carte blanche to do so, when Corbyn allowed a free vote on the issue. Speaking at Chatham House, the Royal Institute of International Affairs, earlier this month Benn stated, The deterrent is intended to deter and I think it has succeeded in doing that. The position of the trade union bureaucracy is at one with the Labour leadership. Previously the union leaders had largely presented their support for Trident on the basis that it would cost thousands of jobs if the nuclear weapons programme was scrapped. In recent weeks, the pretence of supporting Trident on the basis of defending jobs has been married to open support of nuclear weapons as vital to the national interest. In his speech Watson said, Our trade unions that represent the thousands of workers in the 450 companies who form the supply chain that make it are in favour of Trident. Gary Smith, the secretary of the GMB Scotland trade union, said of Corbyn and his supporters, They want to cancel the renewal of Trident, whatever the consequences. Describing them as armchair generals, Smith said the GMB would give these professional posers [sic] the fight of their lives. He warned, "Failing to renew Trident is wrong on so many levels. Whether the professional posers with their brand of student politics accept it or not the people of this country do believe Trident makes us more secure. The author also recommends: The UK military, Jeremy Corbyn and the threat of dictatorship [11 November 2015] Billionaire demagogue Donald Trump went out of his way to advertise his sympathies with racists and fascists this weekend, favorably citing a saying of Italian fascist dictator Benito Mussolini, while refusing to disavow an endorsement from David Duke, the longtime white racist agitator from Louisiana. Trump also collected the endorsement of neo-fascist Jean Marie Le Pen, founder of the National Front in France. Le Pen, who was expelled from his own party for openly racist statements and repeatedly downplaying the scale of the Holocaust, wrote on Twitter Saturday, If I were American, I would vote Donald Trump But may God protect him! Trump was pressed by reporters Friday over the recent endorsement of his campaign by former Ku Klux Klan leader Duke, who served two years in the Louisiana state legislator as a Republican and ran as a Republican for US Senate and governor. He claimed to disavow Dukes support. But asked the same question on the CNN interview program State of the Union Sunday, Trump refused an appeal from the Anti-Defamation League, cited by interviewer Jake Tapper, which called on him to publicly condemn Dukes racism and anti-Semitism. This exchange followed, in which Trump pretended not to know who David Duke was: TAPPER: Will you unequivocally condemn David Duke and say that you dont want his vote or that of other white supremacists in this election? TRUMP: Well, just so you understand, I dont know anything about David Duke. OK? I dont know anything about what youre even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists. So, I dont know TAPPER: But I guess the question from the Anti-Defamation League is, even if you dont know about their endorsement, there are these groups and individuals endorsing you. Would you just say unequivocally you condemn them and you dont want their support? TRUMP: Well, I have to look at the group. I mean, I dont know what group youre talking about. You wouldnt want me to condemn a group that I know nothing about. I would have to look. If you would send me a list of the groups, I will do research on them. And, certainly, I would disavow if I thought there was something wrong. TAPPER: The Ku Klux Klan? TRUMP: But you may have groups in there that are totally fine, and it would be very unfair. So, give me a list of the groups, and I will let you know. TAPPER: OK. I mean, Im just talking about David Duke and the Ku Klux Klan here, but... TRUMP: I dont know anyhonestly, I dont know David Duke. I dont believe I have ever met him. Im pretty sure I didnt meet him. And I just dont know anything about him. Clearly, the Republican frontrunner did not want to offend any racists or white supremacists who exercise considerable influence in Republican circles in many states in the South, the site of the majority of the March 1 Super Tuesday contests and several more later in the month, including Louisiana itself on March 5. Trump was also evasive, albeit smirking, on the question of his decision to retweet a quote from Mussolini to the effect that It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep. On NBCs Meet the Press, interviewer Chuck Todd asked him whether he knew the quote was from the Italian fascist dictator. CHUCK TODD: Thats a famous Mussolini quote, you retweeted it. Do you like the quote? Did you know it was Mussolini? DONALD TRUMP: Sure, its okay to know its Mussolini. Look, Mussolini was Mussolini. Its okay toits a very good quote, its a very interesting quote, and I know it. I saw it. I saw whatand I know who said it. But what difference does it make whether its Mussolini or somebody else? Its certainly a very interesting quote. Thats probably why I have CHUCK TODD: Well, Mussolini is a known fascist. DONALD TRUMP: between Facebook and Twitter, 14 million people when other people dont. CHUCK TODD: Do you want to be associated DONALD TRUMP: Its a very interesting quote, and people can talk about it. CHUCK TODD: Do you want to be associated with a fascist? DONALD TRUMP: No, I want to be associated with interesting quotes. While the Republican frontrunner flaunts his sympathies with racists and fascists, his Republican opponents continue to pledge their support for him if he becomes the partys presidential nominee. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, asked point blank on CNN, said, I will support the Republican nominee, period, the end. Governor John Kasich of Ohio told the same program, at the end of the day, Im going to support that person who went through the arena and became the nominee. Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, asked the same question on CBS, declared, Hes never going to be the nominee. So, Im not worried about a hypothetical thats never going to happen. He continued, If hes our nominee, it could be the end of the Republican Party. It will split us and splinter us in a way that we may never be able to recover. But he declined to say he would never support Trump if he were the nominee. 25 Years Ago | 50 Years Ago | 75 Years Ago | 100 Years Ago 25 years ago: LA police videotaped brutally beating Rodney King During the early morning hours of March 3, 1991, up to a dozen Los Angeles police officers were videotaped viciously torturing a helpless black motorist, Rodney King. He was repeatedly administered electric shocks with a Taser dart, while being kicked and beaten with batons. Police stopped King in the San Fernando Valley, allegedly because he had failed to pull over for a highway patrol officer. The noise woke up George Holliday, who decided to record the ensuing confrontation from his second floor apartment on a newly purchased video camera. When the tape begins, King had already been struck with a Taser fired by LAPD Sergeant Stacy Koon. While lying on the ground and offering no resistance whatsoever, King was struck approximately 40 times by two or three officers who are swinging their batons against all parts of his body with full strength. The other officers stand around watching for two minutes. The blows stop only when the officers appear to need some rest, or when they pause to kick King in the neck and head. The badly injured man is then hog-tied, with his hands and feet strapped together behind his back like a rodeo animal until an ambulance arrives. King sustained a broken leg and multiple bruises and lacerations, and was then jailed without bail for evading arrest and an alleged parole violation. There were several witnesses from the same apartment building as Holliday who watched the entire incident, never observing any resistance by King. One, Dorothy Gibson, said that King repeated, Please stop! Please stop! while the officers were all laughing and chuckling, like they had just had a party. Three days later, King was released from Los Angeles County Jail in a wheelchair after the Los Angeles District Attorney determined that the police report of the incident, which describes King as the aggressor, was so full of holes that charges could not be filed. Before leaving, King displayed his many injuries to the press and described in harrowing detail the entire ordeal. Im glad Im not dead, thats all. Im lucky they didnt kill me, King said. Los Angeles Police Chief Daryl F. Gates, a notorious right-wing racist who had previously called Hispanic people lazy, stated that blacks do not react to police chokeholds in the same manner as normal people and advocated the summary execution of casual drug users, immediately defended the officers death squad actions. [top] 50 years ago: India unleashes savage repression against Mizos On March 5-6, 1966, the Indian government of Prime Minister Indira Gandhi unleashed an air assault on the Indian province of Mizo, destroying several villages and paving the way for the forced collectivization of the population in Mizoram, a remote part of northeastern India, then administered by the state of Assam. The aerial assault, the first of its kind the Indian government directed against its own population, came in response to an uprising by the Mizo people, whose longstanding grievances intensified in 1958 and 1959 when New Delhi failed to respond to a major famine that gripped the region. A Mizo organization set up to respond to the famine had, with indirect support from East Pakistan (today Bangladesh), been transformed into a nationalist movement seeking independence from India. Beginning on February 28, 1966, the Mizo National Army seized a number of government targets, including treasuries and administrative centers. From March 5 until March 13, the Indian military aircraft strafed the regional capital, Aizawl, with machine gun fire and incendiary bombs that destroyed most of the city. There was no official count of civilian casualties, though estimates range from 15 to more than 20. Most civilians fled in the face of the attack, creating a large refugee population. The Mizo National Army suffered nearly 100 deaths, as opposed to 58 among Indian soldiers. Hundreds more among the Mizo were arrested. The following year, the Indian government launched a program called the regrouping of villages, modeled on the brutal US strategic hamlet program then being waged against the population of South Vietnam. The Mizo were forced out of their villages with only what they could carry in their hands, and then their villages were torched. Civilians were numbered and tagged and then marched into poorly located Protected and Progressive Villagesin reality squalid concentration camps. In this manner, of 764 Mizo historic villages, 516 were destroyed. The episode was another illustration of the failure of the Indias capitalist and nationalist independence. None of the basic democratic tasks facing the oppressed masses of the subcontinent had been resolvedgenuine national unification, the overcoming of caste, religious, and ethnic divisions, or relieving extreme poverty. The case of the Mizo revealed that just the opposite was the case. Indias caste system resulted in the designation backward or scheduled tribe being forced upon the Mizo, a Sino-Tibetan and largely Christian population. Meanwhile, the imposition of new boundaries choked the Mizos off from their traditional trading routes into China, Southeast Asia, nd Bangladesh, setting the economy and living standards back. [top] 75 years ago: Bulgaria joins the Nazi Axis On March 1, 1941 the premier of Bulgaria, Bogdan Philoff, declared his country would adhere to the Axis in a ceremonial meeting with Adolf Hitler, as Nazi Germany sought to strengthen its position in the Balkan countries against Great Britain, and World War II threatened to engulf all of southeastern Europe. On the same day, German air force and armored units surged across the Romanian border to occupy strategic cities, air bases, ports and bridges throughout the country. German forces took up positions along Bulgarias borders with Turkey, which was allied with Britain, and Greece, which was presently inflicting military setbacks against Hitlers ally Mussolini, the fascist dictator of Italy. One week earlier, Hitler had met with King Boris of Bulgaria to secure passage for his military through Bulgaria in order to join the war against Greece. In return, Bulgaria was to be rewarded with Thrace, a northeastern province of Greece. The whole operation was necessary from Hitlers standpoint to protect strategic Romanian oil reserves that fueled the German army from possible raids by the British air force. On March 6, Germany attacked Greece. One day later a British expeditionary force landed on Greece and engaged the German army. The joining of Bulgaria to the Axis also led to the first public clash in relations between Germany and the USSR. Under the Stalin-Hitler pact of 1939, Bulgaria was designated to lie in the Soviet sphere of influence. Tass, the official Soviet news agency, declared that Bulgaria lay in the USSRs security zone and that it disapproved of Bulgarias agreement with Germany and passage of German troops. But the widening scope of the war was rapidly eroding the pact and leading German imperialism towards conflict with the USSR. [top] 100 years ago: Persian government collapses under pressure from Britain On the March 5, 1916, Prince Firman Firma, the prime minister of Persia (modern day Iran) and Mohtashim ed Douleh, the foreign minister, both resigned office. Firma had been prime minister for a little over two months while the foreign minister had served for just over 10 months. Firmas appointment in December had been brought about by pressure from Britain and Russia on the Shah, as they fought politically to maintain their joint control of the region. With the British government demanding a treaty that would turn all of Persias military and financial resources over to the Allied powers, Firma resigned. The parliamentary system had only been established in the Persian constitutional revolution of 1905-1907. This was driven by several groups including merchants who were hostile to semi-colonial rule and sought a greater share of the national wealth. It was also in part inspired by the 1905 revolution carried out by the Russian working class. Although Persia remained neutral throughout WWI, it became the battleground for conflicts between the major powers, with Russia and Britain on the one hand, and Germany and the Ottoman Empire on the other, vying for influence. Persia had long been the subject of imperialist interest due to its strategic location between Britains colonial interests in south Asia and the Ottoman Empire and its substantial oil reserves to the west. In the late 19th century, Persia along with Afghanistan formed a buffer between Russian colonial interests and British colonial interests in Central and South Asia. With the rise of Germany as a world power, Russia and Britain came to an agreement to consolidate their power in the region. The Anglo-Russian Convention of 1907 formalized an agreement between the two powers with respect to Persia. While Persia was nominally permitted to retain its independence, the country was divided into three zones, the northern zone came under Russias influence, the southern part Britains, and the central zone was considered a neutral zone where both countries could compete for influence and commercial interests. The government of Persia was not consulted about the agreement. [top] TALLAHASSEE, Fla. (AP) - The head of Florida's economic development agency is warning that the state could lose out on 50,000 jobs due to the Legislature. Bill Johnson, the president and CEO of Enterprise Florida, made that prediction in an email he sent Saturday to business partners statewide. Legislative leaders late Friday announced they were rejecting Gov. Rick Scott's proposal to set aside $250 million to lure new businesses to Florida. Johnson said that without the money, Florida would lose out on 277 projects it is competing for. He wrote those projects would create 50,000 jobs. Despite the warning, Rep. Clay Ingram said there are no plans to revisit the decision. Ingram is the chairman of the House committee that oversees economic development projects. ORLANDO, Fla. (AP) An attorney who was the first permanent employee at Walt Disney World and helped pave the legal way for the resort's development has died. The Orlando Sentinel reports (http://bit.ly/1Savyzm) that Phil Smith died last week from complications from kidney disease. He was 83. Smith came to Disney in 1965 as the company was secretly buying up more than 40 square miles of land in the Orlando area. Disney's Miami law firm connected the company with Smith, who at first didn't know who he would be representing given the secretive nature of Disney's land purchase. Smith helped create the Reedy Creek Improvement District, Disney World's private government that controls planning, building and emergency services. Smith retired in the early 1990s as Disney's senior vice president of administration and support. Former Republican presidential candidate Mitt Romney hasn't endorsed a 2016 candidate yet, but has taken the stage to cast doubt on candidate Donald Trump as Super Tuesday comes closer. In an appearance at Babson College in Wellesley, Mass., and in a Fox News interview, Romney repeatedly mentioned the need for voters to see candidates' past taxes. In an interview with Neil Cavuto on Fox News' "Your World," Romney said that, if released, there would be a "bombshell" in Trumps tax returns. "Either he's not anywhere near as wealthy as he says he is, or he hasn't been paying the kind of taxes we would expect him to pay," Romney said in the interview. Romney said the issue of tax returns was a sticking point in his campaign, which is "why I'm so sensitive to it." Former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid called for Romney's taxes on the Senate floor during the 2012 presidential election. Reid noted the irony of the situation to CNN, according to a CNN article. "All I know, I can't imagine Romney having the gall coming after anybody's returns," Reid said in the article. The discourse escalated Thursday in a series of Tweets exchanged between Trump and Romney. Trump called Romney a dope and "one of the dumbest and worst candidates" in GOP history and tweeted that he was "going to do what @MittRomney was totally unable to do- WIN!" Romney pushed back, tweeting his spin on William Shakespeare: "Me thinks the Donald doth protest too much. Show voters your back taxes, @realDonaldTrump. #WhatIsHeHiding." According to Washington Post National political reporter David Weigel in a video and Cavuto, "Trump is leading in literally every Super Tuesday state except Texas" and has double-digit leads in more than half of the Super Tuesday states. In the Fox News interview, Romney said Trump was most likely to be the GOP candidate, although it was "not impossible but very difficult" for another candidate to emerge. "Well, I think there's no question that Donald Trump has the clearest path to become the Republican nominee," Romney said in the interview. "I think for the other people stuck in the race their path is becoming a slimmer and slimmer opening and they're having a difficult time communicating to their supporters just how they could become the nominee." Weigel said other GOP contenders would have less to work with as Super Tuesday draws closer. "The only thing you have really is a debate and those are possibly the least predictable factors in this race in terms of how they affect Donald Trump," Weigel said in the video. At Babson College, Romney said the current political climate came from a nation that was "mad as hell and won't take it anymore," according to a Washington Post article. "Certainly part of what is behind the energy and the passion for Donald Trump on the Republican side and Bernie Sanders on the Democratic side is the frustration and anger people feel in this country," Romney said. It happened on Monday, two weeks ago, in one of the more dull days at the Knesset, in which the opposition was in full presence at the plenum in order to embarrass the coalition by voting down its bill proposals. That day, Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Lieberman and Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid were seen conversing in whispers on the sidelines of the discussions. They weren't talking about the weather, rather, they were discussing their common enemy - Benjamin Netanyahu. How can they embarrass him even more and how, as Lapid tells those in his close circle, "can we save the people of Israel from themselves" - meaning, from voting for Netanyahu again. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter Lapid, by the way, always says he shows Netanyahu respect and doesn't attack the prime minister personally. It didn't stop him last week from entering a battle of credit on who was responsible for the removal of BDS signs from the London Underground . Lapid claims he personally called London Mayor Boris Johnson, who promised him he would immediately take care of the problem. Netanyahu, meanwhile, claimed it was he who instructed Foreign Ministry director-general Dore Gold to take care of the issue. Either way, there's no doubt that the battle over managing Israel's diplomatic relations is only heating up. In their conversation, Lieberman and Lapid launched into a political analysis, during which they agreed it was possible that the next elections will take place in a year's time, after Netanyahu sabotages Moshe Kahlon's efforts, and the finance minister in response will refuse to pass the budget the prime minister wants. Lieberman and Lapid - new partners? (Photo: Ofer Meir) Then, the two went on to talking about the Foreign Ministry employees' crisis - cutbacks, failure to implement a wage agreement reached while Lapid was still in the Finance Ministry, Israel's isolation in the world, and Israel's faltering hasbara (public relations). Lieberman told Lapid that many of the Foreign Ministry's employees turn to him, as he was the foreign minister less than a year ago, and ask for his help. Meanwhile, they discussed the possibility of organizing a conference to save the Foreign Ministry. This emergency conference, titled "Fighting for Israel's International Status," was held at the Knesset on Monday. Lapid and Lieberman organized it, and it was one of the largest conferences held at the Knesset. Fifteen speakers spoke at the conference, including coalition member MK Michael Oren and the chairman of the Foreign Ministry workers' union, Hanan Gondar. This isn't the first time Lapid and Lieberman have worked together. They cooperated on the Equality in National Service Law and in the fight to change the system of governance. But lately, whenever Lapid find himself in need of breaking to the right, there is no one like Lieberman to help him. On the other hand, the Yisrael Beytenu leader wants to be perceived as the savior of the Foreign Ministry, the one the ministry's employees will call for the rescue from the current minister, who happens to be the prime minister as well. "We have different opinions and a different security perception," Lieberman said. "In this case, we decided the Foreign Ministry can no longer be a punching bag - all because of people with vendettas and scores to settle." Who are these people who have vendettas and scores to settle? "You probably understand on your own who I'm talking about. At the moment, let it go. I am truly concerned for the Foreign Ministry and for Israeli diplomacy. As someone who hears from the employees every day, I can't ignore them or not come to their aid." Lapid: "Evet and I have been talking about the crisis at the Foreign Ministry for a long time now and about what it means for Israel's foreign relations. The conference is the result of us understanding that Israel's national security is being compromised. It's concerning that Israel cannot stop the transfer of arms into our neighbor countries, that our status in the world is eroding, and that our relative advantage has been compromised. Look what's happening in the government. There's no one leading it. The issue of public relations has been split between several ministries. This is an outrage on a national scale." This is indeed a concerning situation. Why didn't you include Opposition chairman Isaac Herzog in your initiative? Lieberman: "This wasn't a planned move against Herzog. The call came from the employees, and I answered it. There's no reason to give it any political significance." Perhaps this is because you and Lapid are skyrocketing in the polls while Herzog is plummeting, and you don't want to be associated with someone who's dropping? "Buji is plummeting for different reasons. But beyond that, I have an excellent relationship with him, just like I do with everyone in the opposition and coalition, except for Bibi." Lapid: "We didn't invite Herzog to join us because he doesn't deal with the Foreign Ministry as much. We're not boycotting anyone. Evet and I have been talking about this crisis for a long time, and working with him is natural because he was the foreign minister and I was the finance minister in the same government." Perhaps it's better for you now, when you're breaking to the right, to abandon Herzog and join forces with Lieberman, your bridge to the right wing? Lapid: "I understand why you're asking this question, but it's also clear to you that I don't need a bridge. We're a center party. I grew up in a right-wing home. This move is not about pandering to the right, it's about concern for the State of Israel. If one thing should come out from this conversation, it's that I love my country and I'm fighting for things to be better here." And yet, is the current cooperation any indication for the future, of joining forces for the next elections? Lapid: "I enjoy working with Evet, but it would not be serious if I said something (about joining forces) now. There are no elections right now, and the conference's goal is to put a spotlight on a national crisis the public is not familiar with. To warn that the country's situation is worse than ever, and that there are consequences that people don't understand. I hope the conference leads to the appointment of a full-time foreign minister, who will work to lower the flames with the United States, because it's no longer Obama vs. Bibi, but the US vs. Israel. (I also hope) Israeli missions aren't closed and that the foreign relations department is reinforced." Lieberman: "There is nothing about this conference that is a sign of what's to come. It has no significance beyond the concern for the Foreign Ministry and for Israeli diplomacy." Then we wont see a Lapid-Lieberman bloc in the next elections? Lieberman: "We will definitely no join Lapid. In any case, unlike others, I do not deal in the division of spoils that have yet to be caught. We are clearly right wing and will not give up our worldview." Lapid: "I am goal-oriented and on a campaign for prime minister. I am operating in right wing strongholds, under the medias radar." Insiders said that the two are indeed acting as citizens concerned by the prime minister's actions. "Bibi enthusiastically declared that it was not so bad we cut ties with Turkey, the largest Muslim country in the world, because now there is a brand spanking new relationship with Greece. That is the same country that can barely get by and has no money to fill up gas in a jeep. Bibi is isolated, and he's lucky to have Angela Merkel, who has a hard time saying no so she agrees to meet with him occasionally for joint press conferences." Herzog: Left out (Photo: Motti Kimchi) Opposition leader Isaac Herzog sounded quite amused by the conference. With a degree of virulence, he says he's glad to finally see Lapid in the Knesset. "I'm working on a number of issues with Lieberman, and there is fruitful cooperation between us." As someone whose name comes up as a potential foreign minister in any government, were you told about the conference? "No, they did not update or approach me, but I welcome the initiative and I'm glad that they are competing for the post of foreign minister in the government that I will form. I welcome anyone in the opposition who takes on an issue and challenges the government, because that is how an opposition should work. And a word of advice to Lapid, in light of the unfortunate outcome of his zero VAT plan, I suggest he really focuses on the post of foreign minister rather than return to the Finance Ministry." Herzog doesn't mince words when it came to Lapid, who is siphoning all of the Zionist Union's seats in polls. "While he and Lieberman are dealing with conferences, I'm working. In the last elections, Netanyahu crossed a red line. In light of the investigation that showed how many false text messages he sent on election day, which distorted the results, I intend to propose an amendment to the Knesset Elections Law next week. The bill, which I hope many Knesset members support, will determine that disseminating false information would be a criminal offense, punished with imprisonment. After all, elections are about the public placing its trust in its representatives. Unfortunately, law enforcement has not taken steps against what Netanyahu did, so we need the amendment." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu mentioned the Mufti Amin al-Husseini Sunday night at a speech in Jerusalem, comparing Arab incitement of the 1920s to the incitement of the current terror wave. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter During his speech at the Menachem Begin Heritage Center marking what would have been late former Prime Minister Yitzhak Shamir's 100th birthday, Netanyahu said that the "terrorism in the '20s, when my grandfather came to Israel, was also fed by the claim of Mufti Hajj Amin al-Husseini that the Jews were going to destroy the al-Aqsa mosque and build the third temple in its stead. Sound familiar to you?" Last October, Netanyahu instigated controversy when he said, in a speech at the World Zionist Congress, that the Mufti inspired the Nazi final solution during a meeting with Adolf Hitler. According to that speech, Hitler intended on expelling the Jews from Europe rather than exterminating them, but his mind was changed, at least in part, by al-Husseini. After his words were widely condemned, the PM recanted. PM Netanyahu at the event. (Photo: Gil Yohanan) This time, Netanyahu said, "the incitement is ongoing, and terror waves come and go, and the attempts to explain it with the despair and frustration of Palestinians are incorrect. That statement absolves them of responsibility for their actions, for their terror that has been accompanying us for almost 100 years, before the establishment of the state and before there were territories and settlements, when there was a diplomatic process and when there wasnt. In addition, Netanyahu said that basic hostility towards Israel exists in different international organizations, but that a process of change was taking place, with many countries coming closer to Israel both due to military power in the face of terrorist and Israel's technological power. Among the states mentioned were India, Argentina, and several African states. The BDS (Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions) movement against Israel in Johannesburg Sunday night tried to disrupt a huge event in support of Israel with the participation of thousands of members of the Jewish communities in South Africa. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The keynote speaker and guest of honor was Israels ninth president, Shimon Peres, and outside the Intercontinental hotel where the event was held, BDS activists waited and clashed with police. Some held signs against Peres that read "Blood on your hands and Remember Qana" ( during operation Grapes of Wrath in 1996, while Peres was prime minister, an IDF shell hit a UN shelter in Qana in Lebanon, killing 106 people). BDS activists protesting in Johannesburg, South Africa (Photo: AFP) Hours before the event a large amount of security forces were deployed around the hotel and entire streets were closed due to heavy alerts regarding violent protests. Even before Peres arrived there was a call to issue an arrest warrant against him, but Jewish community leaders made it clear that all of South Africas legal institutions dismissed these claims. Peres said in his speech at the conference that "any threats or attempts to hurt us and Israel will not deter me from standing on this stage and fighting the just war of the State of Israel. I am proud to stand here tonight. You are a warm, Zionistic and loving community. I know you are going through difficult times and I come to you today with a strengthening message of love from the citizens of the State of Israel." Confrontations between BDS activists and police (Photo: AFP) He addressed the political process saying that there is no other solution that will lead to peace other than the two-state solution. Things change quickly in the Middle East, but our longing to live with our neighbors will never change." Earlier, Peres met with Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, Nelson Mandelas second wife, and he told her that in each of us is a Nelson Mandela outlining the path to peace and reconciliation. Nelson was a dear friend of mine and his morality, nobility and courage brighten our future. Five Chinese women, descended from the medieval Jewish community of Kaifeng, are set to arrive in Israel on Monday. The women, Gao Yichen (Weiwei), Yue Ting, Li Jing, Li Yuan, and Li Chengjin (Lulu), have studied Hebrew and Judaism to prepare themselves for their journey, as they return to the heritage of their ancestors. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter Upon their arrival, the five women will visit the Western Wall before making their way to Midreshet Nishmat The Jeanie Schottenstein Center for Advanced Torah Study for Women, where they will prepare for their official conversion to Judaism under the auspices of Israels Chief Rabbinate. The women will live in the seminary until the completion of their conversion, after which they will receive Israeli citizenship. The 5 Chinese women from Kaifeng making aliyah (Photo: TPS) Kaifengs Jewish community is believed to have been founded by Iraqi or Persian Jewish merchants in the eighth or ninth century. A synagogue was erected there in 1163 that still stands today. According to estimates, the community consisted of up to 5,000 Jews during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) but decreased to 500-1000 due to wide-scale assimilation and intermarriage. According to Michael Freund, chairman of the Shavei Israel organization responsible for bringing the women to Israel, the Kaifeng community was similar to other Jewish communities except that it did not suffer anti-Semitism. As a result, beginning perhaps in the 18th century, a process of assimilation and intermarriage began to settle in. Then, the last rabbi of Kaifeng passed away 200 years ago, and the synagogue was rendered unfit for use when a series of floods struck the city in the 19th century, Freund told Tazpit Press Service (TPS). However, Freund said that close to 1,000 remain who are identifiable as descendants of the Jewish community and who have shown increasing interest in learning about Judaism and their heritage. Such interest has enabled Freunds organization to bring many Chinese to Israel, the last group of seven men arriving in October 2009. Freund further explained that around 25 years ago, Jews were given the option of registering either as regular Han Chinese or, for unknown reasons, as Muslims. Many opted to register as Muslims since this enabled them to have more than one child, but they are still identifiable as descendants of Jews even if some of them have nothing to do with Judaism, Freund said. Being part of the Jewish people is an honor because of the heritage and wisdom, said Li Jing, who on a previous visit put a note of prayer in the Kotel asking to return and live in Israel. Now, my prayer has been answered, she said. Turkish newspaper Hurriyet reported Monday that Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu stated, in a cabinet meeting attended by President Erdogan, that the Israeli and Turkish governments were nearing a reconciliation agreement. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter He added that "Israel and Turkey will publish a statement about this in the coming days." The two countries have been negotiating fervently for the past few months, attempting to put behind them the enmity they've shared since the Mavi Marmara incident in mid-2010. Two weeks ago, a spokesperson for Turkish ruling party AKP spoke positively of the talks, but clarified that the sides had not yet reached an agreement. Turkish President Racep Tayyip Erdogan. Nearing an agreement? (Photo: AP) Current Mossad Director Yossi Cohen was spotted traveling to Turkey in January, while he was still serving as a national security consultant, alongside Prime Minister Netanyahu's advisor for Turkish affairs Yossi Ciechanover. The two reportedly met with the Director Gerneral of the Turkish Foreign Ministry, coming to an understanding on several issues. Another piece of evidence for the upcoming normalization of relations can be found in a recent meeting between Turkish President Erdogan and a delegation of 20 Jewish-American leaders at his Ankara palace. The delegation was led by Executive Vice Chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations Malcom Hoenlein, an associate of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Malcom Hoenlein. Headed a delegation to Turkey. (Photo: Amit Shabi, Yedioth Ahronoth) It seems that some of the only topics still in dispute are the demands Turkey has made regarding the naval blockade of Gaza, and the Israeli demands regarding Hamas activity on Turkish soil. Hamas commented on the Israeli-Turkish talks, stating they hope an agreement is signed. The terrorist organization claims that such normalization will allow a port to be built in Gaza. Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) Maj.-Gen. Yoav Mordechai stated that there are no talks with Turkey regarding the establishment of a naval port in the Gaza Strip. The Mavi Marmara. A low-point in Israeli-Turkish relations. (Photo: IDF Spokesperson) Defense Minister Moshe Ya'alon spoke of the possible reconciliation, saying, "We are prepared to reach a reconciliation, but we have our conditions. Turkey is hosting Hamas in Istanbul and we will not accept that. It supports Hamas generally. That must be discussed. They need to reach our conditions in order to reach a political arrangement." Two brothers from Hebron were arrested on suspicion of carrying out a series of shooting attacks against soldiers and civilians, wounding four Israelis, it was cleared for publication Monday. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The brothers are Nasser Faisal Muhammad Badwi, 23, affiliated with Hamas, and his older brother Akram Faisal Muhammad Badwi, 33. The attacks were carried out with sniper rifles. During their Shin Bet interrogation, a makeshift sniper rifle used in the terror attacks was confiscated, as well as a Carl Gustav rifle with which one of the brothers planned to carry out further attacks. The brothers hid the makeshift sniper rifle in the al-Mujahideen mosque in Hebron and took it from there to carry out their attacks. Faisal Badwi, left, and Akram Badwi, right, arrested for Hebron sniper shootings (Photo: Shin Bet) The Shin Bet said that the brothers are responsible for a series of attacks. On November 6, 2015, they met in a building owned by their father, where they went up to the third floor and entered an apartment under renovation. Akram put the gun on a windowsill facing the Tomb of the Patriarchs and started shooting. He estimated that he hit a group of worshipers near the tomb, but only later upon hearing news reports about the wounded did they realized they struck two worshipers. One worshiper was wounded moderately to seriously and the other lightly. After the attack the brothers went to celebrate a cousins wedding. It was also learned from the investigation that Nasser decided to carry out the attack following the death of an elderly terrorist from Hebron who carried out a vehicular attack near the Halhul bridge that same day. Scene of shooting attack near Tomb of the Patriarchs in Hebron On November 25 Nasser went to the above-mentioned apartment, having taken the makeshift sniper rifle from the moseque the day before, and told his brother Akram that he intended to carry out a shooting attack alone. Nasser waited for soldiers to pass by "any other target". When he saw a soldier near the Tomb of the Patriarchs, Nasser shot at him, but he realized that he hit a car. After the shooting, Nasser returned the gun to the mosque. As a result damage was caused to a parked vehicle but no casualties. Later on, both brothers decided to carry out a shooting attack at an IDF checkpoint near Hebron and began to observe the area to see where the cameras were located. They located an open area among the stone quarries in the industrial area south of Hebron, from which they would be able to shoot straight towards the checkpoint. They shot at the roadblock several times but in most of the shootings the soldiers did not see or hear the shooting. On the afternoon of January 3, Nasser spotted a group of soldiers near the Tomb of the Patriarchs and asked his brother Akram to urgently come to the same apartment from where they had already fired shots. Akram came with the rifle and fired at the group of soldiers. As a result an IDF officer cadet was moderately to seriously wounded. That day Akram suggested to Nasser to perpetrate a shooting at the above-mentioned IDF checkpoint. The pair drove in Akrams vehicle and positioned themselves in the stone quarries in the area, then Akram shot at the soldiers. They heard the soldiers shouts and fled the area. As a result of the shooting a soldier was lightly wounded. On January 9, Nasser was arrested for questioning. A week later, on Saturday night, January 16, Akram carried out a solo shooting attack from a building in the Abu Sneineh neighborhood in Hebron, which resulted in no casualties. Akram said in his interrogation that he carried out the attack in order to divert suspicion from his brother Nasser, which, as noted, was arrested a week earlier. After the attack, Akram hid the makeshift sniper rifle in a craner at a quarry owned by his family at the industrial area south of Hebron. The investigation also revealed that the brothers made a makeshift silencer from an oil filter, which they learned from an Internet video. Intentional crowding, insufficient amounts of food, a lack of translators and health services, and not enough availability of legal representation: These are just some of the findings in a report published Monday by the Refugee and Immigrant Center (RIC), a non-profit organization that examined living conditions for illegal immigrants and asylum seekers in Israel. The report surveys Israel's four facilities dedicated to these populations Saharonim and Givon prisons, and the Holot and Yahalom detainment centers - which house a total of 5,000 detainees. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The report's findings are based on information given after freedom of information requests, official reports, and 72 personal interviews the RIC conducted with detainees. The Israeli Prison Service (IPS) rejected the report, calling it biased and non-realistic. Interviews with detainees at Saharonim indicate that ten people are housed in each room, even though the facility's plans call for just five to be placed in each such space. The report states that each detainee has just 2.2 meters of living space half of what's required by current IPS regulations, and a quarter of what's considered the standard in other advanced nations. Saharonim Prison. Ten people in a five-person room. (Photo: Haim Horenstein) Freedom of movement According to the report, detainees at Saharonim are allowed to be outside their rooms from 6am to 10pm, only reporting for counts. However, the yard exit from the facility's new building, Building C ("Mivne Gimel"), leads to an inside-space that does not admit sunlight. Detainees of Holot are allowed to leave the facility between 6am and 10pm, but since Holot is far away from most other places, and since the detainees are not allowd to work and have trouble paying for public transportation, they are forced in practice to stay near the facility. Yahalom does not have a joint space for detainees. The report indicates that all four facilities feature severe deficits in translation services provided to detainees in meetings with officials. Most interviewees at Holot said they had never been aided by a translator during doctor's visits. Holot. Detainees are allowed to leave for the day, but have nowhere to go. (Photo: Anat Vaknin Appelbaum) Health services Some of the Saharonim and Givon detainees said that even though they asked for medical attention they either did not receive it or were not helped by it. Most of the detainees weren't aware of the availability of mental health or social worker services. Yahalom, which is mostly used as a short-term detainment center, does not provide medical services. Most of its detainees, including families and children, don't get to meet a mental health professional during their detention. In cases of severe medical problems, detainees are taken to the nearest hospital. Food trouble Saharonim and Givon saw just a quarter of their inhabitants complaining about small amounts of food, but the case of Holot was much worse a majority of those interviewed claimed the facility had insufficient supplies of food. One interviewee said that ever since he came to Holot, he goes to bed hungry which he claims did not happen when he was at Saharonim. In addition, the detainees at Saharonim and Holot complained about the food's quality. Holot saw detainees complain that the food was inedible at times or uncooked. Other complaints in the report regard a shortage of clothing and hygiene prducts, as well as the lack of care shown to basic detainee needs during long wait periods ahead of hearings. Saharonim. Lackluster medical services. (Photo: Haim Horenstein) The report's authors, Sam Kutner and Sigal Rosen, emphasized that while UN guidelines say that arrests and detentions are an extraordinary measure, which can only be justified to achieve a proper goal, it seems that Israel's policy in the past decade has been to use detention and arrests in a frequent manner, disregarding UN instructions. The IPS said in response, "This is a biased report, with recycled claims that have been raised and refuted in the past. The report does not reflect reality in the detention centers, and we have no intention of responding to the claims raised in it beyond that." The Population, Immigration, and Border Authority refused to comment on this report. Rejecting opposition criticism of his foreign policy, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu boasted on Monday that Israel has been ranked eighth most powerful country in the world in Wharton University's "Best Country in the World" survey Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The survey ranks states in several different categories - power, citizenship, quality of life, cultural influence, heritage, entrepreneurship, business, movers and adventure. The "power" category takes into consideration military power, international alliances, economic influence and political influence. "Israel was ranked as the number eight world power in the world based on three things: Military power, international influence and, notice how they put it - international alliances. I didn't choose to say it, they did. They rank us for our international power and our international alliances." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu (Photo: Daniel Elior) More powerful than Israel are the United States at first place, followed by Russia, China, Germany, Britain, France and Japan. "For a long time I've been telling you that we have been seeing two trends - one of the de-legitimization of the State of Israel, and we're fighting this, and another is strengthening the alliances Israel has," the prime minister noted. In other categories, however, Israel trailed behind. In the overall list, Israel was ranked at 25, with countries like Russia (24), Portugal (23), India (22), Thailand (21), Brazil (20), South Korea (19) and Ireland (18) all ranked higher. Netanyahu, who was talking during a Likud faction meeting, told his party members that he met with Egypt's Ambassador to Israel earlier. "I continued here, in this room, with many representatives - ambassadors of African countries - to strengthen the alliances between African states and Israel." The prime minister said US Vice President Joe Biden is expected to arrive in Israel for a visit soon - an indication of Israeli ties with the most powerful country on the list, and that "we're strengthening our ties with many powers in Asia and in Latin America every day." Earlier in the day, Yisrael Beytenu leader Avigdor Lieberman and Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid led an emergency conference at the Knesset under the banner of "Fighting for Israel's International Status." "The left wing parties held an emergency political conference today," Netanyahu said. "There are those who chose to rattle on and hold political conferences and those who work to strengthen international alliances in order to secure our future here. At the end of the day it is our power, this power, that guarantees our future and it will also lead to our enemies reconciling with us and we will continue working in that direction." Lieberman and Lapid used the conference to slam the prime minister's foreign policy, or lack thereof. Lieberman and Lapid at the conference (Photo: Ofer Meir) "Netanyahu is trying to take the Israeli Foreign Service and destroy it by force," Lieberman charged. "The Foreign Ministry is no one's private property, including the Netanyahu family. You can't take it and destroy it completely." Lieberman dubbed the recent closure of several Israeli missions across the globe as "madness," adding that "the government has no foreign policy and this is complete anarchy. Netanyahu won't let ambassadors attend meetings with heads of states. How are they to feel?" He also slammed the lack of cohesion in the government's positions on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. "This morning, Minister Elkin came out against the Palestinian Authority, while Yoav Galant supports the PA. The government can't have three or four different positions." Lapid also didn't spare his rod. "The deterioration of the situation is dramatic. The BDS Movement is gaining power, the international institutions, and the UN as well, are leading an anti-Israel line. There's a crisis with the American administration, there's a crisis with the European Union, the world media is leading a serious slanderous anti-Israel line, aided by anti-Israel organizations," he said. "Our international standing has never - throughout the state's history from 1948 until today - been that bad. What makes the situation worse is the fact the Israeli government won't admit this," Lapid added. The Yesh Atid leader lamented the fact that "the Foreign Ministry is divided between six ministers and none of them knows what the others are doing. Israelis hasbara (public relations) is divided between five government ministries and none of them knows what the other does." Minister of Immigration Absorption Ze'ev Elkin (Likud) asserted on Monday that the days of the Palestinian Authority, as well as the Oslo Accords, are numbered. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter "There's no point in continuing this artificial resuscitation of the PA, and we should prepare a proper tombstone for the grave, as well as for the Oslo Accords. The PA was born with Mahmoud Abbas, who initiated and pushed Oslo, and the PA will disappear with Abbas when he goes, Elkin said. The minister warned that Israel needs to prepare for the eventuality of the PA's collapse, saying "we must stop these fruitless discussions which debate whether or not it will be good for Israel. The PA will collapse whether we want it to or not the train has already left the station. I'm sorry to say that at the moment, it seems that we have yet to internalize the new situation, and we aren't preparing for it properly." MK Zeev Elkin speaking with Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky) Elkin added that the international community "must stop attempting to strengthen the PA, because all it amounts to is artificial life support which will blow up in our faces. It is true that there are several scenarios, but the most likely scenario in my opinion is anarchy which stems from the lack of an apparent successor to Mahmoud Abbas, the unwillingness to hold elections for the next head of the PA, and the excess of both legal and illegal weapons present in PA territory." Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah (Photo:Ofer Meir) Elkin argued that "In order to fight the current wave of terror, we have to treat it with antibiotics, not acetaminophen. We have to understand that today's terror comes from 23 years of abandonment, since the Oslo Agreement. Therefore, we have to get to the root of the problem, which is incitement in textbooks, in the media, and in sermons in mosques. At the same time, there is a need to prepare defensively and understand the new terrain. The source of authority is not hierarchical or institutional anymore there is a need to recognize the new players who rose to power behind the scenes. If we know how to recognize who they are, we will be able to quietly control the situation. There is no doubt that this is a ticking time bomb which can be neutralized, but only if we wake up in time." IDOMENI/ATHENS - As frustrations boiled over at restrictions imposed on people moving through the Balkans, migrants trapped on the Greece-Macedonia border tore down a metal gate in the barbed wire fence. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter A Reuters witness said Macedonian police fired several rounds of tear gas into the crowd and onto a railway line where other migrants sat refusing to move, demanding to cross into the country. Macedonian police shoot tear gas at children on the border with Greece (Photo: AFP) Greece raced to set up temporary accommodation for a build-up of thousands of migrants stranded in the country after Austria and countries along the Balkans migration route imposed restrictions on their borders, limiting the number of migrants able to cross. Many of the migrants, fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East and North Africa, hope to reach Germany, which last year took in 1.1 million asylum seekers. Children crawl under the boder fence from Greece into Macedonia (Photo: AP) There were an estimated 22,000 migrants and refugees trapped in Greece on Monday, some sleeping on the streets in central Athens, some in an abandoned airport, and at the 2004 Olympic Games venues. Greece's migration minister said that without any outlet, that figure could rise as high as 70,000 in coming days. More than one million migrants passed through Greece last year, prompting criticism from other European nations that Athens simply waved people through. Macedonian police keeping immigrants from entering from Greece (Photo:AP) "These people do not want to stay here," said Thodoris Dritsas, Greece's shipping minister. "Even if we had a system in place for them to stay here permanently it wouldn't work." German Chancellor Angela Merkel, facing the biggest test of her decade in power, defended her open-door policy for migrants on Sunday, rejecting any limit on the number of refugees allowed into her country despite divisions within her government over the issue. "There are many conflicting interests in Europe," she told state broadcaster ARD. "But it is my damn duty to do everything I can so that Europe finds a collective way." That was lacking on Monday, a week before European Union leaders were due to meet with Turkey on how it could help quell the flow of migrants from its shores. Migrants crawl under the border fence separating Macedonia and Greece after having tear gas fired at them by Macedonian forces (Photo: AP) In an increasingly shrill debate, Austria's defence minister suggested Merkel take in all those who were stranded in Greece. "The German chancellor ... said that formally there is no upper limit in Germany. Then, I would invite her to take the people, who arrive in Greece now and whom she wants to take care of, directly to Germany," Hans Peter Doskozil told Austrian's Oe1 radio. Tent community Thousands of people have been gathering at Idomeni, the small frontier community on Greece's border with Macedonia, for days. Hundreds of tents were pitched in soggy fields on Monday and there were reports that fights had broken out among families over tents, which were in short supply. Macedonian Foreign Minister Nicola Poposki, speaking in Geneva, said 'encouraging' cooperation had been established with Greece on the issue, but that it may not be enough. "Shifting responsibility from one border to the next is clearly not the solution," Poposki told the UN Human Rights Council. On Monday, a crush developed along the frontier after rumours spread that Macedonian authorities had opened the border. Crowds who gathered at the razor wire fence proceeded to use a heavy metal pole to bring down a gate. At least two people collapsed in the crush and ensuing use of tear gas, Reuters television images showed. Aid agencies said the border was opening with Macedonia intermittently, with about 7,000 gathered in the area. People were also being sent back for apparent discrepancies between registration documents they received from Greek authorities and their own travel documents, witnesses said. "There are people who have been here for as long as 10 days," said Gemma Gillie of aid agency Medicins Sans Frontieres. "Things are really stretched to the limit." "The Jungle" refugee camp in Calais, France (Photo: MCT) In Calais, clashes with police broke out on Monday as work got underway to clear part of the shanty town outside the port city in northern France where migrants are trying to reach Britain. Police fired tear gas around midday, about 150-200 migrants and activists threw stones and three makeshift shelters were set ablaze, said a Reuters photographer at the site Israeli Ambassador to Germany Yakov Hadas-Handelsman has blasted the Beyreuth City Council for granting a tolerance and humanity prize to the American organization Code Pink, which supports the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) Movement and cooperates with Holocaust deniers. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter "I am shocked that in Germany, of all places, a prize is going to be granted in the name of tolerance and humanity to Code Pink," Ambassador Hadas-Handelsman said in a press release. "It appears that the definition of tolerance and humanity in Beyreuth is cooperating with Holocaust deniers in Iran and boycotting Jews, and denying Israel's right to exist," he added. Code Pink activists (Photo: Shutterstock) Despite international protest and criticism, a majority of the Beyreuth City Council approved the decision to grant the Tolerance and Humanity Prize, worth 10,000 Euros, to Code Pink on April 15. Two years ago, Code Pink representatives took part in a conference in Tehran sponsored by the Iranian government that dealt with different conspiracy theories such as the Jewish plan for world domination. The anti-Israel organization also fervently supports the BDS movement, has met with Hamas officials, and harshly criticizes Israel's security policies. Deidre Berger, the director of the Berlin office of the American Jewish Council, and other local leaders tried to stop the council from giving the prize to Code Pink. "Code Pink has long supported the BDS movement, which has aggressively worked against Israel," she said. "Especially in light of the anti-Semitic history of Beyreuth, the Beyreuth City Council are expected to deal with people demanding a boycott of the Jewish state with more sensitivity. We expect the government of the Bavarian province to distance itself from the decision," she added. The Mayor of Beyreuth, Brigitte Merk-Erbe, has taken action against the decision, but her efforts were unsuccessful. "Because of historical responsibility and out of respect to Holocaust victims, we must prevent the prize from being granted to this organization," she said. NEW YORK - As Bernie Sanders headed toward victory in New Hampshire, observers noted the barrier he was about to break: Sanders would become the first Jewish candidate to win a major party presidential primary. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter But instead of the burst of communal pride that usually accompanies such milestones, the response from American Jews has been muted. One reason: The Vermont senator, the candidate who has come closer than any other Jew to being a major party presidential nominee, has mostly avoided discussing his Judaism. Sanders won't identify the Israeli kibbutz where he briefly volunteered in the 1960s. When reporters found the kibbutz, Sha'ar Ha'amakim in northern Israel, he wouldn't comment. Photo: Reuters In New Hampshire, he described himself as "the son of a Polish immigrant," not a Jewish one. At a Democratic debate, he spoke of the historic nature of "somebody with my background" seeking the presidency, but didn't say "Jewish." A recent headline in the liberal Jewish Daily Forward newspaper read, "We Need To Out Bernie Sanders as a Jew -- For His Own Good." Rabbi James Glazier of Temple Sinai, in South Burlington, Vermont, said Sanders' comments were being discussed by fellow rabbis in the liberal Reform movement. "What did he leave out there? He didn't say 'Jewish Polish' immigrant. Reform rabbis have picked up on this big time." Sanders' lack of religious observance is not what rankles. Many Jews identify "culturally" instead of religiously with the faith. But unlike some other prominent non-observant Jews, Sanders, during more than three decades as a mayor, congressman and US senator, has developed few relationships with Jewish groups or leaders on religious issues or on Israel. He has supported a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but has not made Israel a priority. "I would say that he has never been one of those in Congress who was active in a Jewish caucus, who turned out for Israel, who was involved in those issues -- and he still isn't," said Jonathan Sarna, an expert in American Jewish history at Brandeis University. Photo: EPA Ironically, when Sanders gave his most religiously focused campaign speech, he underscored his distance from Judaism. It was last fall at Liberty University, the evangelical school founded by the Rev. Jerry Falwell in Virginia, and Sanders addressed the school on Rosh Hashana, or the Jewish New Year. Discussing his beliefs in the speech, he said he was "motivated by a vision" for social justice "which exists in all of the great religions." Later, he attended a local Rosh Hashana gathering. The Sanders campaign did not respond to repeated requests for comment. Sanders has said the Holocaust wiped out much of his father's family in Poland. As a child in Brooklyn, Sanders went to Hebrew school and had a bar mitzvah. "Being Jewish is very important to us," his brother, Larry, said in an interview. "There was no problem of debate, it was just a given in our lives, just as being Americans was a given in our lives. But Bernard is not particularly religious. He doesn't go to synagogue often. I think he probably goes to synagogue only for weddings and funerals, rather than to pray." Photo: Reuters In his secular-leaning home state, Sanders was rarely called on to discuss his faith. In 1988, he married his second wife, Jane, who was raised Roman Catholic. He has been facing increasing challenges about his support for Israel. At a 2014 Vermont event, after the war started between Israel and Palestinian Hamas, the Islamic militant group that controls Gaza, some voters demanded Sanders do more to protest Israeli bombing. Sanders said Israel "overreacted" with the intensity of its attacks, and he called the bombing of UN schools "terribly, terribly wrong." But he also criticized Hamas for launching rockets into Israel. Israel has said Hamas is responsible for civilian casualties, since it carried out numerous attacks from residential areas in Gaza. Photo: EPA "I believe in a two-state solution, where Israel has the right to exist in security at the same time the Palestinians have a state of their own," Sanders said. Despite Sanders' reticence about discussing his Jewish roots, his religious identity is clear, Sarna said. "I think it is very much a statement about America that someone who everybody knows is of Jewish background and has a Jewish name and sounds Jewish from Brooklyn can get several delegates," Sarna said. "There is a sense that only in America could a Bernie Sanders be a candidate." Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu chose a special Knesset meeting in memory of former prime minister Ariel Sharon on Monday to criticize the late leader's decision to unilaterally disengage from the Gaza Strip. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The parliament session, also attended by Sharon's sons Omri and Gilad, marked two years to the late prime minister's passing. Addressing the plenum, Netanyahu said that the Gaza disengagement - in which Israel withdrew from the Strip completely, evacuating all Jewish settlements there - has aided terror groups in the enclave. "Unfortunately, giving the responsibility for governing (Gaza) to the Palestinians not only did not put us on the path to peace, but increased the armament of terror groups," he said. Netanyahu at the Knesset (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky) "Ariel Sharon left his clear mark on the State of Israel. He gained his fame in the 1950s when he commanded the legendary Unit 101's retaliatory operations. He pushed for a change in the IDF and advocated the perception that the Jewish state was formed to give Jews back their rights and the ability to defend themselves. Today as well, and not by chance, we still implement this very principle. My brother and I aspired to serve in elite units precisely because of the norms Arik incorporated in the IDF," he said. The prime minister also spoke of Sharon's decision to launch Operation Defensive Shield, saying that "the Yom Kippur War gave the final confirmation to those who needed it that Arik was one of the best commanders the IDF has ever had. After the war, he went on a long political career as a minister in Israeli governments, and contributed to settlements, agriculture, industry and to the development of infrastructure. Without his backing, I would not have been able to execute necessary reforms as a minister in his government." Sharon's making his famous Herzliya Conference speech about the disengagement in 2003 (Photo: Michael Kremer) Opposition leader Isaac Herzog, meanwhile, praised Sharon's decision to disengage from Gaza. "During his last term in office, Sharon identified the demographic danger. Identified it, talked about it, and did something about it. He saw a million and a half Palestinians in Gaza who were growing in numbers, and decided to disengage from them, so they won't be a part of the State of Israel, and in order to keep Israel a Jewish state. I hear all of those who want to annex Judea and Samaria to the State of Israel, along with the Palestinians there. They keep attacking Ariel Sharon for the disengagement from Gaza, but it's interesting that I haven't heard any of them suggest we go back to Gaza." Herzog at the Knesset (Photo: Alex Kolomoisky) Herzog went on to say that "a part of us was here in 2004 and 2005 when Sharon presented his plan to evacuate Gaza and the northern Samaria, the disengagement plan. Without getting into the dispute over the plan itself, you could not help but be in awe of his daring and leadership. Like a solid rock, he did not blink or falter. He wasn't afraid to confront his party, the Likud center and his closest allies. His political and diplomatic conduct at the time was unique and original, straight out of school for leadership and politics." The Zionist Union leader called on the State of Israel "to continue what Sharon started in order to keep Israel a safe, Jewish and democratic country. We must complete the separation fence Sharon started building. This is the fence that completely stopped the suicide bombers. Now we need to complete the fence to stop the knife-wielding terrorists. This fence will separate us and the Palestinians in Judea, Samaria and the Jerusalem area. A fence that will give us security - and let them live their lives. A fence that would stop the slow annexation and the movement towards a binational Jewish-Arab state." BAGHDAD - A suicide bomber blew himself up at a funeral for the relative of a Shi'ite Muslim militia commander in Iraq's eastern province of Diyala on Monday, killing at least 40 people in an attack claimed by Islamic State. The bombing in Muqdadiya, 80 km (50 miles) northeast of Baghdad, killed six local commanders of the Hashid Shaabi umbrella group of Shi'ite militias who were attending the funeral ceremony, security officials and police in Diyala said. A further 58 people were wounded, the sources said. Islamic State, an ultra-hardline Sunni group that controls large parts of northern and western Iraq, claimed responsibility for the blast, according to a statement posted on the SITE monitoring group's Twitter account. Israeli drinks firm SodaStream laid off its last Palestinian workers Monday and lashed out at the government for refusing to grant them work permits after it relocated from the West Bank to southern Israel. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter The company, which manufactures a device for making fizzy drinks at home, announced in late 2014 it was closing the West Bank plant following a boycott campaign that included t argeting Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson after she advertised its product. The plant, located in a Jewish West Bank settlement, closed in October last year, laying off more than 500 Palestinains, and then relocated inside Israel. The movement known as BDS campaigns against Israel over its presence in the West Bank and pressured SodaStream to move out of the Palestinian territory. Mahmoud Nawajaa, the BDS coordinator in the West Bank town of Ramallah, called the loss of the Palestinian jobs at SodaStream "part of the price that should be paid in the process of ending the occupation." At the time, 74 experienced Palestinian workers moved with the company which also hired hundreds of Israelis. Saying goodbye in tears (Photo: Israel Yosef) On Monday, they boarded buses to leave the plant in the southern Israeli town of Levahim for the last time, many visibly emotional, as company officials expressed outrage. CEO Daniel Birnbaum (Photo: Israel Yosef) The movement known as BDS campaigns against Israel over its presence in the West Bank and pressured SodaStream to move out of the Palestinian territory. Woes of BDS SodaStream, alone in the fight against BDS Ariela Ringel Hoffman The Israeli company, which had to move its factory from the West Bank to the Negev, has been on the frontlines of boycott battles for over 8 years now. CEO Daniel Birnbaum talks about handling public relations abroad, his Palestinian employees, and bubbly water. SodaStream, alone in the fight against BDS The Israeli government refused to grant the 74 Palestinians work permits beyond the end of February, according to the company. The company, which had revenues of $112.9 million in the final quarter of 2015, initially threatened to halt production at its factory unless the "essential" workers were given permits. However, it later backed down and made them redundant. Selfie with the CEO (Photo: Tomer Noyberg) Birnbaum said he was "still hopeful" a solution could be found and said the company might move some operations back to the West Bank. 'There is no hope' COGAT, the Defense Ministry body responsible for coordinating Israeli government activity in the Palestinian territories, declined to comment on the redundancies but reiterated that it had helped facilitate the movement of the factory. "COGAT has taken many measures to help the factory and provided temporary permits to hundreds of laborers in the past year and a half to enable the transfer (of the factory)," a statement said. According to COGAT, 58,000 Palestinians hold permits to work in Israel, with another 27,000 working for Israeli businesses in West Bank settlements and industrial zones. Employees at SodaStream say goodbye (Photo: Israel Yosef) SodaStream -- which employs around 1,200 people -- has called for that number to be increased but that would require a government decision. At a march to protest the government's decision on Monday, a few hundred SodaStream employees formed a peace sign at the company's Lehavim factory. Photo: CopterPix Palestinian employees were then loaded onto buses for the last time to be taken into the West Bank. "There is no hope in Palestine. There is little work." Bassel Salhaya said he had no plan for future employment in the West Bank. "We were together 12 hours a day, more than I see my wife and son," he said. "We became like brothers." AP contributed to the report. Two non-combat soldiers from the IDF's Oketz Unit came under attack after accidentally driving into the Qalandiya refugee camp on Monday night. Follow Ynetnews on Facebook and Twitter Palestinians hurled stones and Molotov cocktails at them, which set the army vehicle on fire. The two soldiers were able to escape the vehicle, but got separated. IDF, Shin Bet and Special Forces swarmed into the camp in large numbers to search for the two soldiers, surrounding the camp, firing flash bang grenades into the air, with helicopters flying overhead. Fire in Qalandiya. The IDF was in contact with the two soldiers, as one of them hid in the yard of one of the houses. One of the soldiers was found 20 minutes later, and the other shortly before midnight after he was able to walk towards the settlement of Kokhav Ya'akov. The two soldiers were unharmed and extracted from the camp. Throughout the incident, troops exchanged fire with Palestinians in the camp, but none of the Israeli forces were harmed. This has been a long time in the making, but in our continuing pursuit to bring only the best of firearms, 2nd Amendment and defence related news to our readers, we are very excited to announce the next step in our evolution as a company. As of 2020, Minuteman Review is now the proud owner and operator of Your Defence News, a website with a long history of breaking huge news stories and investigative journalism. We hope you are equally as excited as us. This means that now the teams of Minuteman can combine with the firepower of Your Defence News to stay at the absolute forefront for our readers. Keep an eye. Big things are coming soon. We couldn't be more excited. In the meanwhile, here are some of our most popular posts and categories to keep you busy. Happy shootin' my friends! Buying Guides: Firearms Firearm Accessories Ammunition Gun Safes Scopes & Optics Hunting Air Rifles Best AR-15 Best AR 15 Scope Best Hunting Rifle Best Gun Safe Best AK 47 Best AR 10 Best Glock Triggers Best Glock Best Home Defense Shotgun The Global and United States Hydrobike Market Report has been published by QY Research recently. Hydrobike Market Analysis and Insights This report focuses on... THAT THERE MAY BE A FAIRER SOCIETY IN GHANA - ONE IN WHICH ALL THE PEOPLE, NOT JUST A POWERFUL AND GREEDY FEW, BENEFIT FROM THE NATION'S WEALTH! The article/blog entry below from the JTA reminds me of the arguments about Lenin's Jewish ancestry. Now that we can look at the records, we know that Leni... 11 years ago Editorial: It is not entirely clear why Gasmilla was not nominated for the 2016 Vodafone Ghana Music Awards - whether he was technically ruled out or he did not submit his works for entry. But here is an opinion from Yen.com.gh Managing Editor, Ameyaw Debrah on why the hiplife artist should have been nominated for his hit song, 'Telemo' In my 10 years of working in the Ghana showbiz industry, I have shared various opinions on the Ghana Music Awards scheme but after coming to the understanding that it is not an award for excellence in music but an award for popular music I have become less critical of it. The challenge the Ghana Music Awards still faces is the fact that it tries to combine good music standards within a peoples choice award scheme - without clearly defining certain key parameters for the awards. In 2014, I shared my opinion on whether Akwaboah and Kumi Guitar deserved to be nominated for New Artist of the year in the face of argument that both were not new artists. In fact, Joey B who won Best New Artist that year was not entirely new either, as he had been featured in many songs including D-Blacks Vera, which was nominated for Ghana Music Awards in 2013. In my argument, I said that all three deserved the nomination because my little understanding of the award category in previous years has been that, if an artist enjoys success for his/her first major commercial/mainstream record, he/she qualifies as a new artist in that year. This brings me to the question, what does the Ghana Music Awards scheme describe as new artist? Here is how the Grammys consider nominations for New Artist - although the VGMA is not the Grammys, it certainly provides us with key guidelines on how such award schemes run. The Grammy Award for Best New Artist has been awarded since 1959. The official guidelines are as follows: For a new artist who releases, during the Eligibility Year, the first recording which establishes the public identity of that artist. Note that this is not necessarily the first album released by an artist. In 2010, Lady Gagas exclusion from the Best New Artist category caused the Recording Academy to change eligibility requirements for the next ceremony. She was ineligible for the nomination because her hit Just Dance had been nominated in 2009. The new rule states that an artist can be nominated as long as the artist hasn't previously released an entire album and hasn't won a Grammy This year, the same issue has popped up regarding the nomination of Kofi Kinaata for Best New Artist. In 2014, Odo Pa by Castro featuring Kofi Kinaata and Asamoah Gyan won Best Hiplife Song, meaning that in fact Kofi Kinaata is even a VGMA winner already. So it all goes back to what the guidelines/rules for the awards say, and when there are such guidelines they should be published. I am waiting to hear what the VGMA Board has to say on this. Now back to Gasmilla! If the Ghana Music Awards are for songs that are popular then by logic it should be for songs popular within the year under review. Let us not kid ourselves and pretend that in Ghana, we have a structured system of releasing songs. So lets save ourselves the trouble and consider songs as and when they become hits because there is a process to how a song becomes a hit - it may bubble underground for a while before it becomes a hit in the mainstream. Gasmillas Telemo on all accounts became a big hit in 2015, so it should have qualified for the 2016 Ghana Music Awards for works January 1, 2015 - December 31, 2015. R2bees officially released their album Refuse To Be Broke Da Revolution II in March 2013 which went on to win 6 awards at Ghana Music Awards ceremony held in May that same year with songs like Life (Walahi) and Odo. The following year, 2014 the single, Slow feat. Wizkid from the same album was nominated for Best Afropop song, Vodafone Song of the Year and Best Collaboration of the Year. I guess the argument would be that Slow Down was released in 2014 or became popular in 2014?. The VGMAs calendar is usually for works released from January 1 to December 31 of the previous year. So this means Refuse To Be Broke Da Revolution II was in consideration for January 1, 2012 - December 31, 2012, and then again for January 1, 2013 - December 31, 2013. I know the members of VGMA Board work hard and take their reputation seriously. But often they leave room for such criticisms just due to the mere lack of sustained attention to details and a strict guideline to steer the process. I don't even want to talk about the TeePhlow gaffe during the announcement of nominations this year. My advice? - keep it basic, know what you are, and what you are working with!!! Source: YEN.com.gh Chandigarh: Haryana Police on Monday filed its status report on the alleged rapes at Murthal in Sonipat district during the Jat agitation, saying no such incident took place. The status report was filed before a division bench of Justices SK Mittal and HS Sidhu. The status report filed by police "denied the charges of molestation and gang-rape during the intervening night of February 22/23 at Murthal in Sonipat district." The division bench adjourned the case to March 14. The High Court had taken suo motu note of the matter after a report in a local daily on the alleged rapes. The bench had appointed senior advocate Anupam Gupta as amicus curiae to assist the court in this matter. During the course of the hearing, ADGP Law and Order Mohd Akil and Head of the three-member women police officers probing the allegations DIG Rajshree Singh were also present. Days after allegations of rape and molestation by Jat quota agitators near Haryana's Murthal, a woman yesterday came forward and registered a case of gangrape against seven persons, including her brother-in-law, in connection with the incident. "An FIR has been lodged against seven persons in connection with a gangrape on the basis of a complaint filed by a Narela-based woman," Haryana Police, DIG, Rajshree Singh had said. She said the victim had alleged she was raped on the intervening night of February 22-23 and the perpetrators included her brother-in-law. The officer, who heads a three-member team of women police officers constituted by the Haryana government to go into alleged incidents of rape and molestation of several women by Jat protesters, however, said a "family dispute" could be the reason behind the woman filing the complaint. The officer said the victim was not sure about the exact scene of the crime but claimed she was raped in a building near Murthal when she was on way to Narela in Delhi from Haridwar in a van. New Delhi: It can't order the military to shoot at the crowd, the Supreme Court on Monday said while dismissing a plea seeking giving free hand to Army to control "unruly mob" during the Jat agitation in Haryana. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India TS Thakur said that Army was capable enough to deal with any situation and as and when the situation arises things will be taken care of. "You want us to issue direction to Army to shoot at the mob. We can't issue such directions. We can't allow the army to open fire at the mob. As and when the situation arises things will be taken care of. Army is capable enough to deal with any situation," the bench also comprising justices R Bhanumathi and U U Lalit said. It said that whoever will take law in his own hand will be prosecuted as per the law and dismissed the petition as withdrawn. The bench observed that had the petitioner advocate Ajay Jain sought compensation to the victim of the violent agitation, it would have thought of considering it. "Had you asked for compensation to the victims of the agitation, we would have thought of considering it," the bench said. Petitioner then sought court's permission to amend the prayer in his petition which the bench denied, saying it can't allow him to do so. The bench also refrained itself from imposing the cost on petitioner after he kept on insisting for consideration of his plea. He, however, later agreed to withdraw his plea. The petitioner in his plea has sought direction for Haryana government to give complete free hand to the Army/Para Military forces to control the situation which includes inter alia to fire at the mob to bring the situation under control. He has also sought direction to local administration of Rohtak, Haryana to hand over the administration to Army and not to interrupt in any manner whatsoever in the Army's affair in dealing with the situation. "Direct the Union of India to provide adequate number of Army/Para Military forces as is required to deal with mob of 20,000 people roaming in or around district Rohtak," the plea had said. Chandigarh: Fourteen people were today arrested from Jind district for allegedly damaging government property and indulging in rioting during the Jat agitation. "We have arrested 14 people for rioting and damaging government properties during the Jat agitation," Jind SP Abhishek Jorwel said. Nine persons were arrested from Uchana, three from Julana and one each from Safidon and Sadar Jind, he said. However, no fresh complaint was received by the team of three women officers set up to go into alleged incidents of rape and molestation of several women by Jat protesters near Murthal. "We have not received any complaint today," DIG of Haryana Police Rajshree Singh, who heads the team, said. A woman had yesterday come forward and registered a case of gang-rape against seven people, including her brother-in- law, in connection with the incident at Murthal's women police station. "A probe in the case is underway," the DIG said. Meanwhile, the Haryana government today released an interim assistance of Rs 3.44 crore to 152 more people whose properties were damaged in the incidents of violence and arson during the agitation. It had released an interim assistance of Rs 1.12 crore to 203 people yesterday. A government spokesman said this amount is being sent directly in the bank accounts of the claimants. Having suffered massive financial loss during the agitation for inclusion of Jats in the Other Backward Classes list, the business community in worst-hit Rohtak demanded tax relief and electricity bill waiver. Rohtak: As Haryana Police continues to be in denial mode on the alleged rapes at Murthal in Sonipat district during the Jat agitation, two women have surfaced and narrated their ordeal, exposing the claims of the police. Speaking exclusively to 'Firstpost', a 27-year-old woman alleged that when she was coming back to Delhi with her husband, their bus was stopped by some agitators somewhere near Sukhdev Dhaba. Thereafter, the rioters forcefully took them to a field nearby, where she was gang-raped. The alleged rape victim maintained that the other women in the bus were also sexually assaulted. Further narrating her story, the woman said, she saw some men around the area after she regained conscious. Fearing further assault, she tried to hide and keep quiet. Fortunately those men helped her reunite with her husband, who was badly beaten by the agitators. When asked why didn't she filed a police complaint, the woman said that the priority for them was to first save themselves and leave the place. Even worse, we were advised by the officials there not to report the matter for the sake of honour, because what has happened could not be undone, she added. The woman further said was that the Haryana Police allegedly advised not to file a report for the sake of honour. When the victim's husband was asked, whether he would depose before the Special Investigation Team (SIT), set up to probe the alleged Murthal rape incidents, he said nothing will happen as the police will not take any action against the culprits. Another woman, who was coming back from Naina Devi Temple in Nainital also narrated her ordeal. According to 'Firstpost', the lady said their car was set ablaze and her daughter was kidnapped at gunpoint by the agitators. The girl was later found by the family from water tank near an eatery on the highway along with others. The mother told 'Firstpost' that the dhaba owner saved her daughter and other women from the wrath of the goons by giving them shelter at his eatery. The aggrieved mother said her daughter was in a state of shock and not behaving normally. She also refused to trust the police saying, how could they come forward and file a complaint as the policemen themselves had termed the incidents as 'rumours'. Meanwhile, Haryana Police today filed its status report on the alleged rapes at Murthal in Sonipat district during the Jat agitation, saying no such incident took place. The status report was filed before a division bench of Justices SK Mittal and HS Sidhu. The status report filed by police "denied the charges of molestation and gang-rape during the intervening night of February 22/23 at Murthal in Sonipat district." New Delhi: Opposition on Monday dubbed as "mere rhetoric" projection of the budget as pro-poor and said government will not be able to "fool" farmers with "hollow promises". Predictably, BJP hailed the budget calling its measures for rural India "historic". In a sharp attack on the government, Congress said it has "failed to create an immediate stimulus" to address economic challenges including employment generation with former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh holding that it lacked any "big idea". Asserting that the budget was short of both "vision and conviction", party Vice President Rahul Gandhi said a list of new promises have been made without any account of the "failure of tall promises made in last two budgets". "Modiji spent the first two years mocking the Congress Party's focus on farmers, MNREGA, Rural dev & social spending. Now mere rhetoric, without vision or action, will fool neither farmers nor the poor of this country," Gandhi tweeted. He, however, thanked Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for accepting his recommendation on removing import duty on Braille paper which will help the visually impaired. Criticising the budget, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said it was full of "hollow promises" and will burden commoners who will feel the pinch of hike in indirect tax. "As with the previous two budgets, this budget of the Modi govt is again full of hollow promises and slogans. The numbers just don't add up. "FM says budget is about fulfilling 'desires & dreams' but it has no vision. The dead certainty from it is of a shrinking economy," Yechury said in a series of tweets. On his part, BJP chief Amit Shah praised the budget saying its focus on rural India and farmers besides other measures were "historic". Shah asserted that this is the first budget since Independence that has focused so much on "villages, farmers and poor". "The thrust of the budget is towards strengthening rural and agriculture sectors and boosting employment-generation.... There is a lot of focus on agriculture. There is a proposal to double farmers' income by 2022," Shah told reporters. He cited the allocation of Rs 2.70 lakh crore to local bodies, decision to electrify all villages by May 01, 2018 and allocation of over Rs 19,000 crore for Pradham Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna to emphasise the focus on rural India. National Conference leader and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah tweeted "By not focusing the benefits of #UnionBudget2016 on the #suitboot people @arunjaitley has cleverly made the opposition's job a bit tougher." BJD leader Baijayant Panda termed the Union Budget as a "big step" from a macro-economic perspective for its large allocation to infrastructure, especially in rural areas, and steps to cut red tape to ensure ease of doing business. He also lauded the Union Finance Minister for not resorting to a "populist" budget despite polls being around the corner in many states. Congress leader Kamal Nath, a former Commerce Minister slammed the government, saying it has failed to create an "immediate stimulus" in the budget to address challenges of employment generation and agriculture sector. "This is a budget of future clarifications." Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said the budget does not address the concerns of the farmers and the middle class, and accused the Narendra Modi government of "cheating" them while questioning the blackmoney amnesty scheme. Kejriwal, who is campaigning for the upcoming Punjab Assembly polls, claimed that loans of industrialists have been "waived" in the Budget and wondered why a similar relief has "not been" extended to the farmers. "The budget has nothing for farmers in distress who are committing suicide. Farmers are reeling under huge debt. Loans of industrialists have been waived but not that of farmers. Nothing for middle class in this budget. Modi govt cheated middle class which votes for them," he said in a series of tweets. New Delhi: The Delhi High Court on Monday reserved its order for March 2 on bail plea of Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) students' union president Kanhaiya Kumar arrested in a sedition case for allegedly raising anti-India slogans in the campus. As the hearing resumed today, opposing the bail plea, Delhi Police said that Kumar was part of February 9th gathering & was leading the protest. Delhi Police further said that video footage is just a corroborative evidence, there is more evidence against Kanhaiya Kumar to prove his offense, ANI reported. "We do have independent witnesses- JNU officials, Chief security officers and students of JNU," Delhi Police added. However they said, "In the video, Kanhaiya Kumar cannot be seen shouting slogans. However, there are witnesses to his shouting slogans." Meanwhile, appearing for the JNUSU prez, senior Congress leader and eminent lawyer Kapil Sibal in Delhi High Court submitted evidences stating that no case of sedition can be proved against Kumar. Sibal had earlier contended that as per the status report filed by Delhi Police there was no evidence of any anti-India slogans being raised by his client. The Delhi Court today also extended the police custody of two other accused students Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya by one day. Notably, Delhi government also told the apex court today that there is no evidence against Kanhaiya Kumar and urged for his immediate release. "He (Kanhaiya Kumar) should be given bail. No innocent person can be punished," ANI quoted Delhi government as saying. Umar and Anirban had surrendered before police late on February 23 night. Both are in police custody till today. Kanhaiya, who was arrested on February 12, was in police custody till February 17 and was later remanded in judicial custody till March 2 amid violence at the court premises during the remand proceedings. He was taken to one-day police custody on February 25 and was thereafter remanded back in judicial custody. In its status report filed before the high court, the police had alleged that Kanhaiya had not only participated in the event in JNU campus on February 9 where anti-national slogans were allegedly raised but had "actually organised" the programme. It had claimed that besides Kanhaiya and other accused, some "foreign elements" were also present during the event and they had covered their faces to hide their identity. "The investigation agency is looking for linkage between the petitioner (Kanhaiya), his co-accused and the said foreign elements who were hiding their identity by covering their faces," the police had said while opposing his bail plea earlier. (With Agency inputs) New Delhi: The 18-year-old Sataparna Mukherjee of a village around 30 kms away from Kolkata has been selected for National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) prestigious Goddard Internship Programme. She is among five students from across the world who will get an opportunity to stay and study in US. Every year, NASA's Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS) selects five exceptionally talented students for the programme, where it funds the entire education of the students after school. Sataparna, who will appear for her class 12th exams this year, will pursue her graduation, post-graduation and Ph.D (aerospace engineering) at its London Astrobiology Centre. While talking to the Times of India about how she was selected for the scholarship, Sataparna told that, "It all started in May last year when I was a member of a group on a social networking site where there were many members, including some scientists. One day I shared some of my thoughts on 'Black Hole Theory', and one of the members of this group gave me NASA's official website and told me to post my findings, which I did." Her paper on Black Hole Theory was appreciated by the institute, which extended the scholarship offer in return. Under the programme, Sataparna will work as an employee and researcher and she will be a part of earth science and technology development programme. Sataparna's father Pradip Mukheree, a headmaster of a primary school, is a proud man since he came to know about her daughter's selection for the prestigious programme. "She has made me and the entire country very proud," said Pradip Mukheree. New Delhi: Breaking her silence on the intolerance debate and JNU row, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti on Sunday said people in India have more freedom of speech as compared to the neighbouring country Pakistan. She said that nobody in Pakistan could say a word against hanging of Zulfiqar Bhutto but in India enjoy the freedom of expression as India is more tolerant where everyone can express opinion freely. Quoting the PDP chief, a report in the New Indian Express said, Nobody in Pakistan could say a word against hanging of Zulfiqar Bhutto. Unlike Pakistan, India has freedom of speech and people can express their opinion. India is a tolerant country, where everyone has freedom of speech. My father advocated Indian democracy in Kashmir at a time when people here swore by a plebiscite and siding with India was seen as taboo. Indicating the improving PDP-BJP ties, Mufti also praised PM Narendra Modi as man with a vision to improve Indian-Pakistan ties. Mufti sahib knew Modi had the mandate and vision to improve Indo-Pak ties. Whereas, his predecessor Manmohan Singh, during his 10 years in office, could not once visit Pakistan even once despite it being his birthplace, she added. After death of former Jammu and Kashmir chief Minister Mufti Mohammad Sayeed on January 7 this year, Mehbooba has refused to take oath as the next CM. The latest remark by Mufti is seen as an indication of improvement in the BJP-PDP ties. New Delhi: A Delhi court on Monday extended the police custody of JNU students Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya , arrested on sedition charges, by one day. Khalid and Bhattacharya had last week surrendered before Delhi Police after remaining in hiding for over a week. Both had gone missing following an event at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), where anti-India slogans were shouted. Delhi Police has also arrested JNU students' leader Kanhaiya Kumar earlier this month on sedition charges, for allegedly making anti-national statements at the same event on February 9 in support of terrorist Afzal Guru. Meanwhile, earlier in the day, the Supreme Court declined to hear a plea seeking criminal contempt proceedings against Kanhaiya Kumar, Khalid Umar and five others students facing sedition charges and former professor SAR Geelani . The apex court asked the petitioner to take consent of Attorney General before the hearing. The contempt petition had been filed in the Supreme Court seeking action against the students, who allegedly raised anti-India slogans during an event and also condemned the judiciary for the hanging of 2001 Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru. Washington: A Pakistani team probing the Pathankot terror attack may visit India in the next few days, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Foreign Affairs Advisor Sartaj Aziz said on Monday and expressed hope that the Foreign Secretary-level talks will be scheduled very soon after that. "It is unfortunate that the agreement on resuming the dialogue process was disrupted by the attack on Pathankot Airbase on January 2. Pakistan has taken some important steps in the aftermath of the Pathankot incident," Aziz said in his opening remarks to the US-Pak Strategic Dialogue. "Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif called the Indian Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) immediately after the attack and assured of Pakistan's support in the investigation. National Security Advisers are maintaining frequent contacts," he said. "Case has been registered and the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is likely to visit India in the next few days. We therefore hope that the Foreign Secretary level-talks will be scheduled very soon," Aziz said during the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue which he co-chaired with US Secretary of State John Kerry. As an important part of Sharif Government's policy of peaceful neighborhood, Islamabad has reached out to India, he noted. "We believe that the resolution of all outstanding issues - including the Kashmir dispute - is possible through resumption of full-scale and uninterrupted dialogue with India. We had also proposed a mechanism to address our respective concerns on terrorism," Aziz said. A six-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) was set up by Pakistan government for the initial probe into the January 2 attack based on the leads given by India. Three men arrested for their alleged role in the attack were sent to a six-day police remand by an anti-terrorism court in Gujranwala city of Punjab on Saturday. The FIR by the Counter-Terrorism Department of Punjab police has been lodged on the basis of information provided by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval that four attackers crossed from Pakistan into India and attacked the airbase. The attack led to the postponement of a scheduled meeting between Foreign Secretaries of Pakistan and India in January in Islamabad. Since then, no date has been fixed for the talks. New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday asked a lawyer to get the opinion of the Attorney General before it accords hearing to his plea seeking contempt action against jailed JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar, former DU lecturer SAR Geelani and few others on the ground that they allegedly termed the execution of Afzal Guru as "judicial killing". "You will have to get the opinion of the AG (Mukul Rohatgi) because that is the legal requirement. You please go to the AG again," a bench comprising Chief Justice T S Thakur and Justices R Banumathi and UU Lalit said. The remarks came when Pune-based lawyer Vineet Dhanda sought an urgent hearing of his plea saying that the terming hanging of Afzal Guru as "judicial killing" amounted to contempt of the highest court of the land which had delivered the verdict. The contempt plea has referred to the apex court verdict, pronounced on August 4, 2005 in the case, by which Guru was handed down death penalty for being part of the conspiracy in the attack on Parliament. "The so-called cultural event's pamphlets spoke about the judicial killing of Afzal Guru. The main topic of the 'cultural event' organized was judicial killing of Afzal Guru which outright tantamount to criminal contempt as the respondents are calling the judges of the apex court as killers who have been projected to have committed judicial killing of Afzal Guru," the plea said. "Afzal and Yakub Memon were no martyrs as projected by the group of students of JNU. The Supreme Court has already passed a detailed judgement in both cases after giving due consideration as per law after going through the evidence," it further said. Pamphlets were allegedly distributed during the "so- called" cultural event held at JNU on February 9 that termed death sentence to Afzal Guru and Maqbool Bhatt as "judicial killing", the plea said. The students, who organised the event, also used social media platforms and "tarnished" the image of Supreme Court, it alleged. Besides Kanhaiya and Gilani, the plea has sought contempt action against Umar Khalid, Lenin Kumar, Anirban Bhattacharya, Shehla Rashid Shora and Ali Javed. New Delhi: The Congress Party on Monday said Union Human Resource and Development Minister Smriti Irani `s arrogance and blatant lies in Parliament during the discussion on Hyderabad University scholar Rohith Vemula forced them to move the privilege motion against her. "What Smriti Irani said in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were blatant lies and this hasn`t been claimed by the Opposition, but by the people who knew Rohith; his family members and his University colleagues. Why does she have so much arrogance? Irani could have accepted that she got the facts wrong and the matter would have been over. But just because they are in power, they have arrogance and this arrogance will let them down," Punia told ANI. "The present government fails to reach out to the Opposition only because of its arrogance. Instead of running the house in a proper way, there has been a situation of conflict in Parliament. This is not a good sign for the parliamentary democracy," Punia added. Earlier, the Congress had said that Irani`s statement in Parliament over the Vemula case had many contradictions and it was a "fit case" for a privilege motion as she had "misled" the nation. "There would be a privilege motion and it should be done. She said some two to three things especially in the Lok Sabha on which there is contradiction," Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, told reporters in Srinagar. "The family (of Rohith) also said police as well as the doctor were present there.... The doctor contradicted her (the minister), the police contradicted her and his mother contradicted her. So, obviously, there will be a privilege motion. Everything is recorded on both sides. So this is a fit case for privilege (motion)," Azad said. Irani in her speech in Parliament had said there was no question of an apology from her. She pointed out that according to a report submitted to the Telangana High Court, the police had reached Rohith`s hostel at 7:20 pm when they found the body. "The police said that when they reached the hostel, they found the room open and the dead body was on the table. A hand written suicide note was found. The suicide note that was left behind does not blame anyone," she said. "This is not my submission. This is what the police said. No one allowed a doctor near this child, to revive this child. Instead, his body was used as a political tool. No police was allowed till 6:30 am the following morning. Who tried to help this child?" she asked. New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday launched an attack on Prime Minister Narendra Modi and accused him of shielding those behind raising anti-India slogans at JNU campus on February 9. "I question PM Modi that why those involved in anti-India sloganeering haven't been arrested yet? It is because the people who raised such slogans are from Kashmir and their arrest might upset PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti ji, with whom BJP wants to form government in Jammu and Kashmir," Kejriwal said in a series of tweets posted today. Adding further he said, "Our soldiers are being killed on the border daily, while Modi ji is busy saving anti-India elements in order to form government in Kashmir." Arvind Kejriwal, who was among 9 persons booked for sedition in Hyderabad on Sunday, further slammed the Modi-led government in Centre in another tweet and said, "A case of sedition has been filed against me. I have become an anti-national in their eyes because I voice the concerns of backwards, Dalits and poors. However, 'these people' will not be able to stop me and I will continue to raise voice for these sections." On February 28, an FIR was registered at Saroornagar police station under Cyberabad police commissionerate on the direction of a metropolitan magistrate, who was urged to book the nine people by a group of lawyers. Congress leaders Rahul Gandhi, Anand Sharma and Ajay Maken, CPI leader D Raja, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury, JD(U) spokesperson KC Tyagi, JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar and JNU research scholar Umar Khalid are the others named in complaint. New Delhi: As expected, the Opposition on Monday slammed the General Budget presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitely in Parliament today and termed it 'plain' and 'unimaginative'. "It is a tinkering budget without breakthroughs. There is hardly any relief for Aam Aadmi (common man) in this budget. Overall, Budget 2016 is uninventive and uninspiring," JD(U) said. "They have been talking about development of agriculture, farmers but nothing concrete seen in Budget 2016", party chief Nitish Kumar said today. RJD chief Lalu Yadav doubted the announcement made by Jaitely in Parliament today over doubling the income of Indian farmers as he asserted, "PM Narendra Modi said he will double the income of farmers by 2022. But what is the guarantee?" "By promising to double the income by 2022, they want to secure their berth till then, however their government will fall by 2019," Lalu added. In an exclusive reaction given to NDTV, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said, "The government has unveiled a mixed bag Budget with no big idea." Singh also said the government's announcement that farmers' income would be doubled in the next five years is an impossible idea. While CPI National Secretary D Raja said there is nothing spectacular in this budget, Leader of Opposition in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge mentioned that there is nothing in this Budget for anybody other than corporates close to the ruling government. Former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has made the opposition's job a bit tougher with his general budget not focused on the affluent of the nation. "By not focusing the benefits of #UnionBudget2016 on the #suitboot people Arun Jaitley has cleverly made the opposition`s job a bit tougher," Abdullah tweeted in his first reaction to the union budget. Aam Aadmi Party senior leaders Manish Sisodia and Ashutosh also expressed their reactions on the Budget 2016 through their tweets. "My 1st reaction to union budget : financial injustice to Delhi continues - no change in share in central taxes. Will speak in detail later," AAP leader and Delhi Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia tweeted. Ashutosh tweeted, "Where are Dalits, backwards and minorities in this budget ??" Shiv Sena leader Manisha Kayande said that the General Budget proposals for fiscal 2016-17 will be a test for the NDA government, as the nation has high expectations from it. Kayande also cautioned the ruling government to be ready to face a backlash from the Opposition on the Budget. Meanwhile, BJP veteran Lal Krishna Advani dubbed the General Budget for 2016-17 presented by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Parliament as the best ever, saying it has the potential to boost India's economic growth with employment generation while reducing social imbalances. "Have seen many budgets being presented in Parliament, the one presented by Finance Minister Jaitley today is certainly one of the best budget so far. Budget 2016 has potential to boost India's economic growth with employment generation, while reducing social imbalances," Advani said. Another BJP leader Shatrughan Sinha, who is known to speak his heart out and has often taken a position at variance with the party's stand, this time came to the support of the government. "I am not a budget expert, but I do agree that the Union Budget 2016-17 is a good one. I haven't seen a focus on education, defense so far. However, I have to go through its fine print before commenting," he said. New Delhi: The government on Monday described as "unfortunate" a letter written by 34 US lawmakers to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing concern over violence against religious minorities in India. "It is unfortunate that these members of Congress while applauding India as a pluralistic society with a longstanding commitment to inclusion and tolerance have chosen to focus on just a few incidents," external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup said in a statement. "India is proud of its status as the world`s largest democracy. The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all its citizens, including minority communities. Aberrations, if any, are dealt with by our internal processes which include our independent judiciary, autonomous National Human Rights Commission, vigilant media, and vibrant civil society," he said. In the letter dated February 25 and released to the media by the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, the 34 US lawmakers said that their strong support for the US-India partnership has encouraged them "to relay our grave concerns about the increasing intolerance and violence members of India`s religious minority communities experience". "We urge your government to take immediate steps to ensure the fundamental rights of religious minorities are protected and the perpetrators of violence are held to account," the letter stated. "Of particular concern is the treatment of India`s Christian, Muslim and Sikh communities. On June 17, 2014, more than 50 village councils in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh adopted a resolution banning `all non-Hindu religious propaganda, prayers and speeches` in their communities," it said. According to the US lawmakers, the ban "effectively has criminalised" the practice of Christianity by around 300 families in the region a day after a mob, including members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Bajrang Dal, attacked and injured six Christians at the village of Sireiguda. "Since the ban was implemented, Christians in the Bastar district reportedly have been subjected to physical assaults, denial of government services, extortion, threats of forced expulsion, denial of access to food and water, and pressure to convert to Hinduism," they alleged. Stating that they were also concerned about the "nearly country-wide beef ban", the US lawmakers referred to the killing of Mohammad Hasmat Ali in Manipur in November for stealing a cow and the murder of Mohammad Saif in Uttar Pradesh in September. The letter also called for recognition of Sikhism as a distinct religion as not doing so prevented practitioners of the religion "from accessing social services and employment and educational preferences available to other religious communities". "Mr. Prime Minister, we applaud India as a pluralistic society with a long-standing commitment to inclusion and tolerance," it stated. "We also applaud your statements about religious freedom and communal harmony, including your promise in February 2014 that your government would `ensure that there is complete freedom of faith... and not allow any religious group, belonging to the majority or minority, to incite hatred against others`. We urge you to turn these words into action by publicly condemning the ban on non-Hindu faiths in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, and the violent assaults and other forms of harassment against religious minorities throughout India," it stated, adding that steps should be taken against activities of groups such as the RSS. The letter was signed by Senators Roy Blunt, Amy Klobuchar, James Alankford, Al Franken, Tim Scott, Ben Sasse, John Boozman and Steve Daines and 26 members of the House of Representatives, including Joseph R. Pitts, Keith Ellison, Brad Wenstrup, Jim Costa, Trent Franks, Ted Poe and Mark Walker. In his statement on Monday describing the US lawmakers` letter as unfortunate, Swarup reiterated that the Indian government was "fully committed to the constitutional principles which underpin the nation of 1.25 billion people as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society". Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Monday dismissed a petition filed by NCP MLA Pankaj Bhujbal, son of former Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal, challenging an order of the Charity Commissioner summoning him for a trial related to an alleged fraud at the Mumbai Education Trust. Justice MS Sonak held that the Charity Commissioner has the same powers as a civil court and can summon anyone while conducting a hearing. Sunil Karve, a founder trustee of MET and a chartered accountant by profession, has filed a complaint before the Charity Commissioner alleging a fraud of Rs 177 crore at the institution. The Commissioner had recently summoned Pankaj Bhujbal, one of the trustees, to appear last week. Bhujbal challenged the order in the High Court. Karve has accused Chhagan Bhujbal and his family members, who are among the trustees of MET, of misappropriating Rs 177 crore of the trust funds and misusing its office building at the Bandra Reclamation here. Karve, who co-founded MET in 1989 with Bhujbal, had earlier filed a complaint with the Economic Offences Wing of Mumbai Police, alleging that Bhujbal family had usurped an entire floor in the MET building, using it as residence and also as the office of their furniture business. Karve also filed an application through his lawyer Sayaji Nangre before the Charity Commissioner to seek dismissal of Bhujbal, his wife Meena, Pankaj and nephew Sameer as trustees. Chhagan Bhujbal had dubbed the complaint as "politically-motivated". Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Monday asked Maharashtra government to expedite further investigations by the state CID into the murder of rationalist Govind Pansare. A division bench of Justices Ranjit More and V L Achilya has been hearing petitions seeking probe by independent agencies into the murders of Pansare and another rationalist Narendra Dabholkar. The CBI is probing the role of right wing organisation Sanatan Sanstha in the murder of Dabholkar while the state CID is investigating the killing of Pansare. "There appears to be a good coordination between the investigating agencies probing the murder of Pansare and rationalist Narendra Dabholkar," the bench observed today while asking the authorities to speed up probe in Pansare murder case. Arguing on behalf of Pansare's family, lawyer Abhay Nevgi informed the court that charges are likely to be framed against the accused, Sameer Gaikwad, on March 8. Gaikwad, an activist of right-wing outfit Sanatan Sanstha, was arrested in September last year in connection with the murder of Pansare. Maharashtra CID had earlier told the court it had filed charge sheet against Gaikwad, the only arrested accused in the Pansare murder case, and further probe was underway as other accused were yet to be arrested. The high court judges today asked how can charges be framed if investigations are still going on. The bench asked the prosecution to make an application in the trial court praying to defer the framing of charges, as investigations were in progress. Earlier, dissatisfied by the probe, the family of Pansare had moved the High Court following which it had ordered a CID investigation into the murder. The high court is also hearing another petition filed by Dabholkar's family and had earlier ordered a CBI probe into the rationalist's killing. Both the petitions are being heard jointly by the bench. New Delhi: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's car was attacked with sticks and stones in Punjab's Ludhiana district on Monday. The information was made public by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief himself on Twitter. In his tweet Kejriwal said, My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals n congress nervous? They can't break my spirits. Meanwhile, AAP leader Ashish Khetan accused Shiriomani Akali Dal for the attack saying, Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones and & rods. Khetan accused the Punjab Police of being a mute spectator and taking no action when the goons attacked Kejriwal' car. The AAP leader said, the attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was by only God's grace that he escaped unhurt. February 29, 2016 The AAP put out a photograph showing the shattered front glass pane with a visibly worried Punjab police officer standing close by. The car appeared to be stranded on a rural road, with a police vehicle in the front. Notably, the Delhi Police on Friday had said that it has alerted its Punjab counterparts over a life threat to Kejriwal, who is currently visiting Punjab. The AAP plans to contest elections to the 117-member Punjab Assembly in what will be its first major electoral battle after it swept to power in Delhi in February last year. Kejriwal has claimed the AAP is poised to sweep Punjab amid speculations that some leaders of the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party may shift to the AAP. Washington: Pakistan on Monday said the proposed US sale of F-16 fighter jets to the country would strengthen its ability to carry out counter-terrorism operations and promote regional stability. "We appreciate the public assessment of the US leadership in response to Congressional inquiries that Pakistan has used the F-16s effectively against the terrorists in the region," Sartaj Aziz, Pakistani Foreign Affairs Advisor, said in his address to the opening session of the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, which he co-chaired with US Secretary of State John Kerry. "The prospective sale of F-16s will strengthen Pakistan?s capabilities to successfully continue these vital operations for our mutual benefit and stability in the region," Aziz said as he praised Kerry's recent defence of sale of F-16, which is being vehemently opposed in the US Congress. "We are grateful to you Secretary Kerry for your recent positive testimony on the Hill," Aziz said. Last week, testifying before a Congressional committee, Kerry strongly defended the decision and argued these fighter jets are a critical part of the Pakistan's fight against terrorists. Islamabad: Pakistan on Monday hanged the assassin of a governor seeking reform of the country's blasphemy law, officials said, in a blow to the supporters who feted Mumtaz Qadri as a hero and had threatened violence if he was executed. Officials stepped up security in the garrison city of Rawalpindi as hundreds of people began gathering at Qadri's family home early Monday, and some roads were closed in the nearby capital Islamabad as authorities braced for protests from hardliners. Qadri, a former police bodyguard, shot liberal Punjab governor Salman Taseer 28 times in an upscale market in Islamabad in 2011. He later admitted the killing, saying he objected to the politician's calls to reform controversial blasphemy laws - a hugely sensitive issue in Pakistan. "Qadri was hanged in Adiala jail early Monday morning" in Rawalpindi, senior local police official Sajjid Gondal told AFP. Qadri's body was being displayed to supporters at his family's home in the city, where Rangers and police in riot gear as well as ambulances and dozens of police vehicles were stationed, an AFP reporter there said. Armed Rangers could also be seen on the roof of the building housing Qadri's residence, while authorities blocked some roads in the neighbourhood. Cries were heard from inside the house as hundreds of men and women gathered, and mosques could be heard broadcasting news of the execution. "I have no regrets," Qadri's brother Malik Abid told AFP, tears rolling down his cheeks, while women chanted poetry nearby. He said the family had been called to the prison Sunday evening by officials who said Qadri was unwell. But when they arrived, he greeted them with the news that authorities had deceived them, and that his execution was imminent. "We started crying, but he hugged us and chanted 'God is great,'" Abid said. "We have beefed up security in Rawalpindi to maintain law and order and to deal with any untoward situation," Gondal said. In the port mega-city of Karachi, some petrol stations were closed after Qadri supporters ordered them shut. Qadri lost a petition for the Supreme Court to review his sentence in December last year. The decision came after the court warned in October that in Islam a false accusation can be as serious as the blasphemy itself, and that calls for blasphemy law reform "ought not to be mistaken as a call for doing away with that law". The court's decision to uphold the sentence sparked rallies in which supporters said that if Qadri was executed those responsible should also be put to death. Lahore: Former Pakistani police commando Mumtaz Qadri, convicted in the killing of former Punjab governor Salman Taseer , was hanged to death early on Monday at a Rawalpindi jail . Qadri, deputed on the security of Taseer, had killed the governor at a market close to the latter's house in 2011 in Islamabad for allegedly criticising the country's controversial blasphemy laws. The self-confessed killer was arrested and handed down death sentence the same year by an anti-terrorism court. He was hanged today at Adiala jail in Rawalpindi, the Dawn reported. His appeal against the sentence were successively rejected by the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court last year. Radical religious groups had been demanding that Qadri should be forgiven as he killed a "blasphemer". Taseer, who died aged 66, had termed the blasphemy regulations as "black laws" drawing the ire of extremists. The laws were introduced by Pakistan's military ruler Zia-ul-Haq in 1980s. Islamabad: Former Pakistan Punjab governor Salman Taseer's assassin Mumtaz Qadri was hanged to death early on Monday at Rawalpindi's Adiala jail. Qadri, a former Pakistani police commando, had shot dead Taseer in 2011or allegedly criticising Pakistans controversial blasphemy laws. Qadri was deputed on the security of Taseer, He confessed killing the governor and was handed the death sentence the same year by an anti-terrorism court. His appeal against the sentence was successively rejected by the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court last year. Radical religious groups had been demanding that Qadri should be forgiven as he killed a blasphemer. Taseer, who died aged 66, had termed the blasphemy regulations as black laws, drawing the ire of extremists. The laws were introduced by Pakistans military ruler Zia-ul-Haq in 1980s. With PTI inputs Kolkata: Making the country very proud in the field of space science, an eighteen-year-old girl from Wese Bengal has been selected by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for its prestigious Goddard Internship Programme under the Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS), says a report. As per the Times of India report, Sataparna Mukherjee, who is a Class 12 student from a village around 30km from Kolkata, bagged the top NASA scholarship with her amazing work on 'Black Hole Theory', in which she has written a paper on the subject proposing on how this could be used to create a 'Time Machine'. Stating reason for her selection in NASA, Satarpana said that when she shared her paper on Black Hole Theory with the US space agency, it was greatly appreciated, says the report. The teen will give her school-leaving exams this year from St Judes School, Madhyamgram, in Kamduni, West Bengal. She will be going to Oxford University, where she she will pursue her graduation, post-graduation and PhD (as NASA faculty) in aerospace engineering at its London Astrobiology Centre. It is said that under the Goddard Internship Programme, she will work as a NASA employee and a researcher. Besides bearing all her expenses, NASA is also paying her a generous sum as honorarium. Sataparna is among five scholars chosen from across the world for NASA's prestigious programme and the youngest Indian ever selected for a research project. Hong Kong: Three pro-democracy activists went on trial in Hong Kong on Monday over charges relating to mass rallies in 2014, with the movement`s student leader accusing the government of "unreasonable" prosecution. Joshua Wong 19, was the teenage face of the Occupy Movement, which brought parts of the semi-autonomous Chinese city to a standstill for more than two months as protesters called for free elections for Hong Kong`s next leader. Wong and two other prominent student leaders, Alex Chow and Nathan Law, appeared in court on charges of taking part in an unlawful assembly and inciting others to join it. "It`s unreasonable for the government to give us charges... we were just trying to protect our own rights," he told reporters outside the court. All three pleaded not guilty. They could face up to five years in prison if convicted. "We are still confident to get a favourable outcome because we have persisted in peace and non-violence," Wong told reporters. "We believe finally we can find justice." Several police officers testified at Monday`s hearing and the court saw video footage of protesters climbing over a gate to enter government headquarters. Wong`s lawyer Lawrence Lok said testimony by different police officers about the incident was almost identical. "How do you explain the phenomenon? Is it a coincidence... was it copying?" Lok asked. Wong is facing several other charges, including obstructing police, over his participation in the pro-democracy rallies. He has also been charged with contempt of court for violating an order to clear the Mongkok protest camp -- scene of some of the most violent clashes during the demonstrations. Wong has said he is the target of "political prosecution" and a "witch hunt" against those at the forefront of the Occupy Movement. Demonstrators called for fully free elections for the city`s next leader. But they failed to secure any concessions from the city government, which supported a Beijing-backed political reform package under which candidates would have been vetted by a loyalist committee. Dubai: Iran`s President Hassan Rouhani and his allies won big gains in elections that could deepen the country`s engagement with the world after his government ended years of sanctions by agreeing to curb its nuclear programme. The outcome shown in the latest results on Monday was a blow to the conservative Islamic establishment, although it retains decisive power due to Iran`s unique dual system of clerical and republican rule. Most of the lawmakers who did not make it to the new parliament strongly opposed the nuclear deal, including Mehdi Koochakzadeh, who called Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif "a traitor", and Roohollah Hosseinian, who threatened to bury the negotiators under cement for agreeing to concessions to world powers. "This election can be a turning point in the history of the Islamic Republic," said an editorial in reformist newspaper Mardom-Salari, whose managing editor, Mostafa Kavakebian, won a parliamentary seat in Tehran according to the early results. Rouhani and allied centrists and reformers won 15 out of the 16 Tehran seats in the Assembly of Experts, final election results for Tehran showed, ousting two prominent conservatives including the speaker of the powerful clerical body. "The biggest achievement of this election is the return of reformists to the ruling system ... so they won`t be called seditionists or infiltrators anymore," he said, referring to hardliners who accused reformists of links to the West. The results, carried on state news agency IRNA, suggest conservatives could lose their dominance of the 88-member body, which is tasked with choosing the next supreme leader, the country`s most powerful position. The twin polls, for the assembly and parliament, were seen by analysts as a crucial moment for Iran after years of isolation, and a vote of confidence in Rouhani`s government and his detente policy with the West. Rouhani`s allies were also due to take all 30 parliamentary seats in the Tehran constituency, according to preliminary results, up from just two previously. But their gains outside the capital were more limited, with conservatives keeping hold of many seats in both bodies. The hardline chairman of the Assembly of Experts, Mohammad Yazdi, lost his seat. So did Mohammad-Taghi Mesbah-Yazdi, an arch-conservative who was widely seen as the spiritual mentor to former conservative president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. A prominent exception was Ahmad Jannati, who squeezed in at 16th place. Jannati is also the chairman of the Guardian Council, a cleric vetting body that disqualified the majority of reformist candidates from running for the elections. Leading conservative lawmakers who opposed Iran`s new oil and gas contracts aimed at attracting foreign investment and economic reforms proposed by Rouhanis government, also lost their seats, according to final results. That opens the way for changes to economic policy that will boost foreign investment and trade with the West, businessmen and analysts said. The outgoing parliament had acted as a brake on Rouhani`s plans to strengthen the private sector, tackle corruption and welcome foreign investors. "In economic affairs the next parliament will be much better than the current parliament," said economist Saeed Leylaz, once an advisor to reformist former president Mohammad Khatami. In his first comment since the polls, Iran`s deeply anti-Western Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei praised the high turnout. He made no direct comment on the results but suggested the newly elected bodies should not be influenced by the West. Hossein Shariatmadari, editor-in-chief of Kayhan, a newspaper closely associated with Khamenei, accused reformists of trying to create what he called an "illusion of a victory". "The structure of the Irans ruling system is such that no political faction can change the main policies rooted in its core principles. Peoples vote is limited to the responsibility they have been given in the constitution," Shariatmadari wrote. Iran`s political system places significant power in the hands of the conservative Islamic establishment including the Guardian Council, which vets all laws passed by parliament. A Reuters tally of official results published so far suggested a strong showing by the pro-Rouhani camp and independents. Reformists had 58 seats, conservatives 105, and independents 46, results showed, excluding Tehran where results remain preliminary. Analysts say the large number of independents may be significant as they could cooperate across ideological lines with Rouhani`s government. There will have to be run-off contests for 34 seats in late April because no one won the required 25 percent of votes cast. More than a dozen of the initial winners in those contests were women. Ramallah/Gaza: At least 38 Palestinians were arrested by Israeli security forces on Monday in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, sources said. The Palestinian Prisoners Club said that the Israeli army arrested 27 Palestinians in raids in the West Bank cities of Ramallah, Hebron, Nablus and Jenin, Xinhua reported. The Israeli public radio reported that nine of the arrested Palestinians were accused of taking part in violent acts, seven of whom belong to the Islamic Hamas movement. The Israeli forces seized an M16 assault rifle, a pistol and ammunition during a raid in Hebron in the West Bank. On the same day, two Palestinians were arrested after infiltrating into southern Israel, through the security barrier with Gaza, reported the radio. Palestinian fishermen's captain, Nizar Ayyash, said that Israeli naval forces arrested nine fishermen working off the Gaza coasts, after surrounding the boats. All of whom belong to the same family. The Israeli forces took the fishermen to an Israeli port, Ayyash said. Israeli naval forces often apprehend and question Palestinian fishermen under the pretext of arms smuggling through the Gaza sea. Following a cease-fire agreement in August 2014 that ended a 50 days of offensive on Gaza, Israel allowed Palestinian fishermen to sail as far as six nautical miles offshore, and said would expand the allowed area gradually. Kuwait City: NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg expressed concern over reports of violations of a three-day-old ceasefire in Syria on Monday and urged all parties to respect the truce. "We have seen encouraging signs that the ceasefire is largely holding, but at the same time we have seen some reports about violations," Stoltenberg told a press conference in Kuwait City. "Of course, that is of concern because it is important that all sides should respect the agreement," which is the best way to renew efforts for a political solution to the devastating five-year conflict, he said. The ceasefire deal was brokered by Moscow and Washington and took effect at midnight on Friday. It entered its third day largely intact today despite accusations of violations from both sides. Stoltenberg said NATO was also concerned about Russia's military buildup in Syria, where it has carried out a five-month bombing campaign in support of President Bashar al-Assad. "We are concerned about the Russian military buildup we have seen in Syria," whether it is military or air force, he said. The NATO chief said Russian air strikes had "mainly targeted" non-jihadist rebels rather than the Islamic State group, which has been targeted by a US-led coalition. He said the Western alliance had no plans to send ground troops to Syria as part of the campaign against the jihadists. Islamabad: A new book has claimed that Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif received money from Al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden. The book "Khalid Khawaja: Shaheed-i-Aman", authored by Shamama Khalid, the wife of former Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) operative Khalid Khawaja, claimed that Sharif received money from Bin Laden to contest elections against the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), Dawn online reported on Monday. "Chief of Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Nawaz Sharif received funding from Osama bin Laden, founder of Al-Qaeda, to contest elections against Benazir Bhutto-led PPP after the end of the Zia regime," the book said. Sharif's pledge of introducing an Islamic system attracted Khalid Khawaja, an ISI officer, and Bin Laden. But even though the Al-Qaeda head honcho funded Sharif heavily, the latter backtracked from all his promises after coming to power, it claimed. The book also carries a note from former ISI director general, retired Lt. Gen. Hamid Gul, which also claims that Khawaja was very close to Sharif for some time. It says that Abdullah Azzam, founding member of Al-Qaeda, introduced Khawaja to Bin Laden. Azzam, who is also known as the 'father of global jihad', was a Palestinian Sunni. Leesburg (US): Donald Trump's refusal to denounce an implicit endorsement from former Ku Klux Klan white supremacist leader David Duke has dominated the narrative just before Republican voters across 11 states head to the polls on Super Tuesday. Trump's rivals are scrambling to stop the billionaire businessman from becoming an "unstoppable" force in the 2016 presidential contest. And even Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton, fresh from a strong win in South Carolina, has started turning her focus on him. Texas Senator Ted Cruz and Florida Senator Marco Rubio continued to criticise Trump's character and lack of policy specifics in a series of attacks Sunday while courting voters across the South, whose states dominate Tuesday's voting. Rubio and Cruz acknowledge that time is running out to prevent the former reality television host from becoming the Republican Party's presumptive nominee, as the race to collect delegates for the party's nominating convention this summer continues. Trump has won three of four early voting states, and Republicans are divided over the prospect of the brash billionaire becoming their nominee. "There is no doubt that if Donald steam rolls through Super Tuesday, wins everywhere with big margins, that he may well be unstoppable," Cruz said Sunday on CBS. Trump was asked yesterday on CNN whether he rejected support from the former KKK Grand Dragon and other white supremacists after Duke told his radio followers this week that a vote against Trump was equivalent to "treason to your heritage." "Well, just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke. OK?" Trump said. "I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists." Cruz soon responded on Twitter, telling Trump: "You're better than this. We should all agree, racism is wrong, KKK is abhorrent." Rubio went further. "We cannot be a party who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," Rubio told a Virginia rally. "Not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable. How are we going to grow the party if we nominate someone who doesn't repudiate the Ku Klux Klan?" Trump hasn't always claimed ignorance on Duke's history. In 2000, he wrote a New York Times op-ed explaining why he abandoned the possibility of running for president on the Reform Party ticket. He wrote of an "underside" and "fringe element" of the party, concluding, "I leave the Reform Party to David Duke, Pat Buchanan and Lenora Fulani. That is not company I wish to keep." Asked about the issue yesterday, Trump told NBC he had disavowed Duke and asked, "How many times do I have to continue to disavow people." Baghdad: At least 40 people were killed by a suicide bomber at a funeral in Iraq`s eastern province of Diyala while a suicide blast at a security checkpoint in Baghdad`s western outskirts killed eight members of the security forces, police said on Monday. The larger attack in Muqdadiya, 80 km (50 miles) northeast of Baghdad, killed six local commanders of the Hashid Shaabi umbrella group of Shi`ite militias who were attending the funeral of a commander`s relative, security officials and police in Diyala said. A further 58 people were wounded, the sources said. Islamic State, an ultra-hardline Sunni group that controls large parts of northern and western Iraq, claimed responsibility for the blast, according to a statement posted on the SITE monitoring group`s Twitter account. The killing of the commanders, four of whom were from the Asaib Ahl al-Haq militia and two from the Badr Organisation, is likely to inflame sectarian tensions in the mixed province. Security officials and witnesses said the situation inside Muqdadiya was tense, with dozens of Shi`ite militia members out on the streets but few security forces. The town`s police chief was wounded in clashes with militia fighters who had tried to seize suspected Islamic State militants from a prison in Muqdadiya, police sources said. Militia elements have been accused of attacking Sunni Muslim mosques and residents in Diyala following similar bombings in January, but the groups have denied the allegations and blamed Islamic State. Iraqi officials declared victory over the Sunni insurgents in Diyala a year ago. While it no longer controls significant territory in the eastern province bordering Iran, Islamic State has remained active there. A separate attack in the western Baghdad outskirts of Abu Ghraib followed an offensive by Islamic State militants on army and police positions in the same area on Sunday which left 24 people dead but was eventually repelled by counter-terrorism forces and army attack helicopters. Monday`s blasts follow the deadliest bombing inside the capital so far this year, which killed 78 people in a Shi`ite district on Sunday. Baghdad: A twin suicide bombing claimed by Islamic State killed 70 people in a Shi`ite district of Baghdad on Sunday in the deadliest attack inside the capital this year, as militants launched an assault on its western outskirts. Police sources said the suicide bombers were riding motorcycles and blew themselves up in a crowded mobile phone market in Sadr City , wounding more than 100 people in addition to the dead. A Reuters witness saw pools of blood on the ground with slippers, shoes and mobile phones at the site of the blasts, which was sealed off to prevent further attacks. In a statement circulated online, Islamic State said it was responsible for the blasts: "Our swords will not cease to cut off the heads of the rejectionist polytheists, wherever they are," it said, using derogatory terms for Shi`ite Muslims. Iraqi forces backed by airstrikes from a U.S.-led coalition have driven Islamic State back in the western Anbar province recently and are preparing for an offensive to retake the northern city of Mosul. But the militants are still able to strike outside territory they control, often targeting members of Iraq`s Shi`ite majority, most recently on Thursday when two Islamic State suicide bombers killed 15 people at a mosque in the capital. Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi said the attacks were in response to Islamic State`s recent defeats: "This gang targeted civilians after it lost the initiative and its dregs fled the battlefield before our proud fighters," he said on his official Facebook page. At dawn on Sunday, suicide bombers and gunmen attacked Iraqi security forces in Abu Ghraib, seizing positions in a grain silo and a cemetery, and killing at least 17 members of the security forces, officials said. Security officials blamed Islamic State, and a news agency that supports the group said it had launched a "wide attack" in Abu Ghraib, 25 km (15 miles) from the centre of Baghdad and next to the international airport. Footage circulated online by the Amaq news agency appeared to show Islamic State fighters crouching behind dirt berms and launching the attack with automatic rifles, machine guns and rocket-propelled grenades. Reuters could not verify the video`s authenticity. Security forces had mostly regained control by Sunday evening but officials said there were still clashes. Baghdad-based security analyst Jasim al-Bahadli said the assault suggested it was premature to declare that Islamic State was losing the initiative in Iraq. "Government forces must do a better job repelling attacks launched by Daesh. What happened today could be a setback for the security forces," he said, using an Arabic acronym for Islamic State. COUNTER OFFENSIVE Army and police sources said the militants had attacked from the nearby Islamic State-controlled areas of Garma and Falluja, driving Humvees and pickup trucks fixed with machine guns. A curfew was imposed as a regiment of Iraq`s elite counter-terrorism forces was mobilised to retake the silo in Abu Ghraib and prevent the militants approaching the nearby airport, security officials said. Iraqi army helicopters bombarded Islamic State positions in the and Interior Ministry spokesman Brigadier General Saad Maan said at least 20 militants had been killed in the government`s counter offensive. Fighters from the Hashid Shaabi, a coalition of mainly Iranian-backed Shi`ite militias, were mobilised to Abu Ghraib to reinforce regular government forces in the area, said Jawad al-Tulaibawi, a local Hashid commander. Powerful Shi`ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr also called on fighters loyal to him to be on alert to protect Baghdad. Shi`ite militias like Sadr`s `Peace Brigades` were seen as a bulwark against Islamic State`s sweeping advance in 2014 which threatened Iraq`s capital and its most sacred Shi`ite shrines. REGINA, SK--(Marketwired - February 29, 2016) - Today, the Canadian Conference of Asbestos Workers (CCAW) expressed shock and anger on behalf of Canada's asbestos workers in response to a BC Supreme Court ruling rejecting health and safety claims on the grounds the safety regulations were too complicated for asbestos removal contractors to follow. "The health and safety of Canadian workers is never too complicated to protect," said Vince Engel, Western Canadian Vice-President of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers. "The harmful effects of exposure to asbestos are undeniable. We are outraged that the court has decided health and safety laws are simply too complex to be enforced," Engel added. On Friday, BC Supreme Court Justice George Macintosh dismissed a contempt of court application against asbestos removal contractors Mike and Shawn Singh of Seattle Environmental, despite significant testimony that safety laws were breached. WorkSafeBC filed the contempt of court application against Seattle Environmental after repeated warnings were ignored, including a 2013 BC Supreme Court order to follow safe asbestos removal regulations. In a stunning ruling, Justice Macintosh said that safe asbestos removal laws and regulations were "voluminous and complex", likening the complexity to "looking through the Income Tax Act". Asbestos exposure is the single largest workplace killer in Canada. Since 1996, almost 5,000 approved death claims stem from asbestos exposure, making it by far the top source of workplace death in Canada. In 2013, the 368 asbestos related death claims were greater than those from highway accidents, fires and chemical exposures combined. The CCAW and its members are calling on WorkSafeBC to appeal the ruling, which they insist sets a dangerous precedent allowing contractors to violate safety laws. "This decision sends a dangerous message to contractors that safety laws can be ignored if they seem too complicated to follow," said Fred Clare, Eastern Canadian Vice-President of the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers. "These health and safety laws are supposed to protect the lives of asbestos workers in Canada. But what good are these rules if they aren't enforced, and there are no penalties for breaking the law?" asked Clare. Story continues The CCAW calls on all levels of government to ensure better enforcement of the rules and regulations in place to protect the safety of asbestos workers in Canada. About the Canadian Conference of Asbestos Workers The CCAW is an association consisting of nine local unions in Canada affiliated with the International Association of Heat and Frost Insulators and Allied Workers. The CCAW represents approximately 6000 Insulators and Asbestos workers in Canada. Despite years of global expansion, Starbucks has remained conspicuously absent from a country that is home to millions of the most discerning coffee drinkers in the world: Italy. But that will change in early 2017: the Seattle-based coffee giant announced on Sunday that it would open its first ever store in Italy next year, in Milan, in partnership with a local licensee, Percassi, with other locations to follow. While Starbucks now operates in other markets known for coffee snobbishness, notably France, the company said the move into Italy is particularly meaningful to CEO Howard Schultz. During a business trip in 1983 to Milan and Verona, he discovered the Italian art of preparing coffee, which inspired his vision for Starbucks. Starbucks history is directly linked to the way the Italians created and executed the perfect shot of espresso, Schultz said in a statement. Everything that we've done sits on the foundation of those wonderful experiences that many of us have had in Italy. Seemingly mindful of the fierce coffee chauvinism of Italians and aware of the risk of being seen as an ugly American company coming in and imposing its ways, Schultz emphasized that the store will show deference to Italians and their coffee culture. Now we're going to try, with great humility and respect, to share what we've been doing and what we've learned through our first retail presence in Italy, Schultz said. Percassi, Starbucks Italian partner, has a track record of operating highly successful major brand partnerships across Italy, Starbucks said. Antonio Percassi said Italians are ready for Starbucks. It wouldnt be surprising to see Starbucks succeed in Italy--many people predicted McDonalds would fail in France, the original land of foodies. But France is now the fast-food chains biggest market outside the U.S. Europe is also still relatively virgin territory for Starbucks. There are almost 2,500 license or company operated stores in Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, only one-sixth the number in North America. Story continues Starbucks did not say how many shops it ultimately plans to open in Italy. See original article on Fortune.com More from Fortune.com The B.C. government is set to introduce a new law requiring oil companies to have what it calls a "world-leading" response to oil spills on land creating a path for industry to meet one of the province's five requirements for heavy oil pipelines. Environment Minister Mary Polak said the province's existing Environmental Management Act was "really out of date," and the amendments will require companies to prepare for an oil spill on land and clean up after one. "The biggest change here is the scope" of what a company is responsible for, said Polak, from prevention to cleanup to environmental restoration. "We're requiring them to be prepared. We're also requiring them to have plans to prevent a spill from ever occurring." While environmentalists are welcoming tighter rules, concerns remain that no clean-up efforts world-leading or not will mitigate damage from heavy oil spills. 1 of 5 conditions In 2012, B.C. set out five conditions that had to be met for it to support any heavy oil pipeline project, including "world-leading" oil spill prevention and response on land and water. The province has opposed the Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline and Kinder Morgan's TransMountain pipeline because those five conditions have not been met, according to the government. The new legislation, which if passed is expected to come into effect in early 2017, will tell companies exactly what B.C. considers "world-leading" when it comes to land-based spills, and what they'll have to do. "It satisfies our condition with respect to world-leading response on land," said Polak. "There are of course other hurdles." The laws only target oil spills on land, because that's what falls under provincial jurisdiction, though Polak noted that many marine spills eventually make their way to land. The transport of hazardous goods and marine spills are both federal responsibilities, and B.C. will work with Ottawa on that, she said. Story continues 'When spills happen ... it's too late' The proposed changes are being welcomed by the Georgia Strait Alliance, an environmental group that has advocated against oil pipelines and for better spill response and preparedness. But executive director Christianne Wilhelmson said calling any response "world-leading" obscures the reality that there are no effective tools for cleaning up certain spills, such as diluted bitumen. "Good spill response is essential," said Wilhelmson. "However, when spills happen, in particular with things like diluted bitumen, it's too late." Wilhelmson said she'll be watching for the details of response times, recovery standards and public accountability, when the full regulations enabled by the new legislation are made public. NDP environment critic George Heyman said it's appropriate to put more onus on whoever is responsible for a spill but said the government looks like it will leave the industry in charge of the response without enough oversight. "It's very difficult to understand how this can be a world-class response when this government simply does not have the resources or people on the ground to do serious monitoring when there is a spill." The new legislation will include new offenses and penalties, though the specifics will be defined at the regulatory stage after the law has passed, said Polak. The changes have been in the works since 2010, and were developed in consultation with industry, First Nations, local governments and others. By Paul Taylor PARIS (Reuters) - It's little wonder the European Union can't find common solutions to Europe's urgent problems when its main members are having such different national conversations. Like the biblical Tower of Babel, Europe's ambitious construction is in danger of toppling because its peoples are not speaking the same political language. Tune in to Germany and the fierce debate is all about how to cope with an influx of a million migrants, whether to limit the numbers and, in some quarters, how to stop them coming. Switch to France and you're listening to a nation that thinks it is at war, still living under a state of emergency and in shock after last November's attacks by Islamist militants that killed 130 people in Paris. Flip to Britain and the talk is all of national sovereignty and a possible Brexit in the build-up to a June referendum that might end the country's schizophrenic membership of the EU. Look east to Poland and people are arguing over the new government's moves to curb the media and the constitutional court, over who may have been a Communist informer 40 years ago, and over the perceived Russian threat to eastern Europe today. Around central Europe the discussion is about how to resist German pressure to take in a share of refugees. Turn south and the Italians and Portuguese are engrossed in domestically focused debates about how to revive economic growth despite the EU's budgetary corset while cleaning up legacy bank problems. Spain meanwhile is preoccupied by Catalan separatism, political paralysis and the risk of a breakup of the country. When those countries' leaders come to Brussels, they often cannot even agree what they should be discussing. For the last two EU summits, Britain wanted the focus to be on its demands for a renegotiation of its membership terms to give Prime Minister David Cameron a "new settlement" he can sell in a June 23 referendum on whether to stay in the bloc. He secured a deal on Feb. 19, but many fellow leaders were frustrated at having to spend time on what they see as side issues and rhetorical formulations when their house is on fire. "Everyone in the room and corridors was rather irritated that here we are dealing with some rather obscure issues of child benefits indexation, while we have real problems in Syria, member states closing borders, major issues we should really be on instead of this," a diplomat involved in the talks said. German Chancellor Angela Merkel, fighting for her political life against domestic critics of her open door for refugees, wanted the EU to concentrate on urgent measures to secure Europe's external borders, register migrants, send home rejected asylum seekers and share out refugees among EU states. Desperate to find a common "European solution" to the migration crisis, she has forced yet another European summit on March 7 with Turkey, days before three German regional elections in which anti-immigration rightists could make big gains. French President Francois Hollande, for his part, goes to Brussels seeking more cooperation against terrorism and support for military action against Islamic State in Syria and Libya. His prime minister, Manuel Valls, irked German officials by using a trip to the Munich Security Conference to criticize Merkel's welcome for refugees and declare that Europe could not take any more migrants. WANING AUTHORITY Unlike many past European crises, where disagreements could be postponed or salami-sliced into gradual steps that turned a political dispute into a technocratic process, there is no obvious way to delay or defuse the migration issue. Events on the ground are moving faster than the EU's ability to manage them. Governments along the main Western Balkans migration route, under pressure from populist forces, are resorting to beggar-thy-neighbor solutions. Austria, a key transit country, unilaterally imposed daily caps on migrant entries and asylum applications in mid-February. In a sign of the waning authority of Brussels and Berlin, Austria brought together 10 central European and Balkan states last week - meeting without Germany, the EU authorities or Greece, the main arrival point for migrants - to coordinate national measures to choke off the northward flow of migrants. As boatloads of migrants defy winter seas daily to cross from Turkey, that lockdown is rapidly turning Greece, the EU's most economically enfeebled state, into a giant refugee camp. Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has warned his country will not become "a warehouse of souls" and said he will hold up other European business if Athens' partners do not share the burden. EU countries have largely ignored the quotas of refugees they agreed last year to take in, and Hungary is now planning a referendum on whether it should have to accept any. Britain and France are keeping their heads down rather than helping Merkel, Europe's most experienced and respected leader. Cameron won't take any refugees already in Europe for fear that public hostility to migration could cost him the referendum. Hollande too fears fuelling support for far-right populist Marine Le Pen if he offers Berlin more assistance. Barring an improbable halt to arrivals from Turkey in the coming weeks, the most likely next step is that Europe's 26-nation Schengen zone of passport-free travel will be officially suspended for two years to pre-empt a disorderly collapse. A major achievement of EU cooperation on a continent scarred for centuries by wars will be put into an induced coma to prevent it dying immediately. The result will likely be long lines at borders that had all but disappeared two decades ago. At that point, Germany, with or without Merkel, will probably have to impose its own curbs on new migrants. While Europe's weak and divided leaders remain distracted by internal debates, the union that provided the framework for post-World War Two prosperity will start to unravel. (Editing by Hugh Lawson) Fraud and forgery allegations are at the centre of the RCMP investigation into the construction of the Winnipeg police headquarters, according to court documents unsealed today and obtained by CBC News. The documents that authorized the search of Caspian Construction's headquarters on McGillivray Boulevard in December 2014 were unsealed after CBC News filed a motion last year to make them public. Caspian is the company hired by the city to build the new police headquarters on Graham Avenue. "Information has been received that there were numerous instances of improper invoicing and payments in regards to services rendered during the construction of WPS [Winnipeg Police Service] headquarters," RCMP Const. Marc Allard stated in the documents. "Invoices are said to have been improperly associated to the WPS building when in fact the work was either done at other city properties, private properties or was not done at all." Two witnesses who either work or had worked at Caspian provided statements to police detailing what Allard alleged were fraudulent invoicing and accounting activities, according to the information to obtain the warrant. In the documents, Allard alleges that Caspian owner Armik Babakhanians, between 2011 and 2014, "did unlawfully by deceit, falsehood or other fraudulent means" defraud the City of Winnipeg of money exceeding $5,000. He also says Babakhanians "did knowingly use a forged document" as if it were genuine. A former accounting assistant who was employed by Caspian between March and August 2013 told police "invoices were charged to the Winnipeg police headquarters that had nothing to do with the work being done." These include: - Swimming pool A cheque for $25,000 written for a swimming pool for a house that belongs to Shaun Babakhanians, Armik's son, according to court documents. A second accounting assistant, however, told police the swimming pool was not charged to the police headquarters, but to another Caspian job. Story continues - H ouse renovation Invoices for renovations to a private home owned by one of the members of the Babakhanian family were charged to police headquarters. "Caspian at times called the companies back and have them adjust or reissue the invoices" so it would show the police headquarters job code, the former accounting assistant said. She also said Caspian asked contractors to "delete the house address," according to the documents. - Septic tank septic tank cleaning at a Babakhanians property on Wilkes Avenue was allegedly charged to police headquarters, court documents say. The second accounting assistant at Caspian told police this expense may have been a room and board cost for a Calgary man who lived in the property while working on the police headquarters project. - Cleaning SAB Cleaning, owned by Shaun Babakhanians, invoiced the police headquarters "once in a while" but according to the former employee, "did not have any employees, expenses or do any cleaning." The former accounting assistant told RCMP she believes more than half of the invoices were altered during her employment at Caspian. She added "the invoices that did not appear right compared to the purchase orders where they were charged more than the actual cost was," according to court document. She said she disclosed her concerns to the Winnipeg Police Service but did not give investigators a date. RCMP requested information about her contact with police but it did not receive a response from WPS. A Winnipeg police spokesperson said they are unable to comment. "It would be inappropriate for the Winnipeg Police Service to discuss the steps we did take. This is an ongoing investigation. We will continue to work with the RCMP in regards to any component of their investigation," the spokesperson said. Allard also alleges in the court documents that Babakhanians and a Caspian manager committed forgery by creating false invoices. The witnesses interviewed allege Caspian was billing expenses for the Winnipeg Transit Garage in Fort Rouge to the Winnipeg Police Headquarters. Caspian was hired by the city to build a new bus parking and servicing garage in 2012 in a separate contract from the police headquarters. One contractor told investigators $53,800 of an $253,000 invoice "was for work actually completed at the Winnipeg Transit Garage." When contacted by CBC News, Babakhanians declined to comment and referred questions to his lawyer. Lawyer Patrick Riley could not immediately be reached for comment. The statements in the court documents are allegations that have not been proven in court. An RCMP spokesperson told CBC News charges have not been laid in the case and the investigation is continuing. "At times, the RCMP had 14 investigators assigned to this case in addition to a number of specialized support staff. This is a large and extremely complex case that has already involved over 80 interviews," the spokesperson said in an email. "RCMP investigators are also reviewing tens of thousands of pages of hard copies seized throughout the investigation as well as over 200,000 emails." Extensive criminal investigation The RCMP have been conducting an extensive criminal investigation of the new Winnipeg Police Service headquarters project, which involved massive renovations to the former Canada Post building on Graham Avenue. The project was millions of dollars over budget and plagued by delays. It was also the subject of an external audit ordered by the City of Winnipeg. The audit outlined a number of instances of mismanagement. Last year, CBC News applied to the courts to have the information in the search warrant for Caspian's headquarters made public. The RCMP and the attorney general of Canada sought to have an order sealing the material remain in place. At the time, Judge Dale Schille ruled against the CBC's application, saying that unsealing the information could jeopardize the investigation. However, Schille also ruled that sealing order cannot remain in place open-ended. As a result, the documents were unsealed on Monday. By Jonathan Allen NEW YORK (Reuters) - Meg Whitman, the head of technology firm Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co , said on Sunday that Donald Trump was "unfit" for the U.S. presidency, and criticized New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, whose failed presidential bid she supported, for endorsing him. But, later in the day, Trump picked up another high-profile endorsement, from U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama, a leading conservative. Trump's insurgent campaign has riven the Republican Party, with party leaders openly discussing how to thwart the will of the tens of thousands of members who have voted for Trump, helping him comfortably win in three of the four states that have so far held nominating contests. Party leaders are nervous that Trump, a billionaire real-estate developer from New York City who deviates from some of the central tenets of Republican conservatism, may alienate voters if he is their candidate in the Nov. 8 general election. He has proposed banning Muslims from entering the United States and declined a journalist's invitation on Sunday to condemn the Ku Klux Klan, the violent white-supremacist group. Christie, who scrapped his own presidential bid earlier this month, became the most prominent Republican figure to break ranks with party leadership by endorsing Trump on Friday ahead of this week's "Super Tuesday" contests, when voters in 11 states go to the polls. Whitman, who was a co-chairwoman of the national finance committee of Christie's campaign, said in a statement to reporters that Trump would take the country on "a dangerous journey" and that Christie was aware of this. "Chris Christie's endorsement of Donald Trump is an astonishing display of political opportunism. Donald Trump is unfit to be president", said the statement from Whitman, who is chief executive and president of Hewlett Packard Enterprise and chairman of HP Inc . She called on Christie's donors not to follow him to Trump, who has predominantly funded his campaign with personal loans. Representatives of Christie and Trump did not respond to requests for comment. Earlier on Sunday, Trump was asked repeatedly if he would unequivocally condemn the Klan and other support from white supremacists. "I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists," Trump told CNN's Jake Tapper after being asked about his endorsement by David Duke, a former Klan leader. "If you would send me a list of the groups, I will do research on them and certainly I would disavow if I thought there was something wrong." Previously, Trump had seemed less uncertain about his views on Duke. "David Duke endorsed me?" he said in a response to a reporter. "Alright. I disavow. OK?" His latest backer, Senator Sessions, has had to defend his own controversial comments about the Klan in the past. In 1986, he admitted during an unsuccessful confirmation hearing to become a federal judge that he had said he thought the Klan was "OK" until he came to believe that some members smoked marijuana. He explained that these remarks were a joke and has since called the Klan "destestable." In a separate interview on Sunday, Trump also defended posting on his Twitter account a quote sometimes attributed to Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini. He told NBC News he did not realize that the quote - "It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep" - was associated Mussolini but said it did not matter because it was a good aphorism all the same. Many party leaders hope U.S. Senator Marco Rubio of Florida will somehow overtake Trump before the party's nominating convention in July, despite Rubio's not having won any states and lagging behind in Trump in opinion polls. In recent days, Rubio has taken to adopting Trump's habit of using adolescent insults to denigrate his rival, suggesting on Friday that Trump urinated in his trousers during last week's televised debate. Rubio and U.S. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, the only Republican to yet beat Trump in a primary election, both criticized Trump's reticence to speak ill of the Klan on Sunday. "We cannot be a party that nominates someone who refused to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," Rubio told a crowd of voters in Purcellville, Virginia, MSNBC reported. (Additional reporting by Alana Wise in Washington; Editing by Jonathan Oatis) By Samia Nakhoul TEHRAN (Reuters) - Iran started counting tens of millions of votes on Saturday after hotly contested elections that could see reformists speed up Tehran's opening to the world or long-dominant hardliners reassert the Islamic Republic's traditional anti-Westernism. The twinned elections for parliament and a leadership body called the Assembly of Experts are seen by some analysts as a potential turning point that could shape the future for the next generation, in a country where nearly 60 percent of the 80 million population is under 30. http://tmsnrt.rs/20VK0vG The elections are the first since Tehran agreed with major powers to curb its nuclear program, leading to the removal of most of the stringent international sanctions that have paralyzed the economy over the past decade. Turnout was heavy. Polling was extended five times for a total of almost six hours, because so many people wanted to vote. First partial results are not expected until Saturday and a clear outcome may take days to emerge, although conservatives normally perform well in rural areas and young urbanites are seen as favoring more moderate candidates allied to President Hassan Rouhani. Supporters of Rouhani, who championed the nuclear deal, are pitted against hardliners close to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khameni. They are deeply suspicious of detente with Western countries, seen as adversaries implacably opposed to the 1979 revolution that toppled the Shah. MOUSAVI VOTES Authorities had promised that all Iranian would be able to vote and on Friday opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi and his wife voted for the first time since being put under house arrest in 2011, an ally of Mousavi's told Reuters. Among other voters at a polling station in Khorasan square, a working class neighborhood in Tehran, Mahnaz Mehri, a 52-year-old mother of four, said she was voting for reformists because they had a better vision for the economy and foreign policy. In Meydan Beheshti square, a mainly conservative neighborhood, Reza Ganjialilu, a 28-year-old employee at an electronics shop said he did not favor the reformists. "I have a duty to my country. This group of people (conservatives) are the best. Our main concern is preserving our religion, ideology, not just the economy," he said. Iran, which has the world's second largest gas reserves, a diversified manufacturing base and an educated workforce, is seen by global investors as a huge emerging market opportunity, in everything from cars to airplanes and railways to retail. For ordinary Iranians, the prospect of this kind of investment holds out the promise of a return to economic growth, better living standards and more jobs in the long run. An opening to the world of this scale - and Rouhani's popularity - have alarmed hardline allies of Khamenei, who fear losing control of the pace of change, as well as inroads into the lucrative economic interests they built up under sanctions. BUSY POLLING Both camps appeared successful in getting supporters out to vote. Although extensions of voting are common in Iranian elections, many were surprised to see polling as busy in the evening as it had been in the morning. State television said voting booths in other cities were still packed mid-evening. Influential former president Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, allied to Rouhani, called on election authorities to protect people's votes. "You should show our people that their votes will be preserved and are in safe hands," he said. Asked what would happen if reformists did not win, he told Reuters: "It will be a major loss for the Iranian nation." Rouhani wants to cash in on the popularity he gained from the nuclear deal to help his supporters wrest parliament from the hardliners who control it and possibly help him win a second presidential term in elections next year. Although Iran's foreign policy is dictated by Khamenei, the outgoing conservative-dominated parliament strongly opposed making any meaningful concessions to the West during the nuclear negotiations and some lawmakers called Foreign Minister Mohammed Javad Zarif a "a traitor". At stake is control of the 290-seat parliament and the 88-member Assembly of Experts, the body that has the power to appoint and dismiss the supreme leader. Like the parliament, the assembly is in the hands of hardliners. During its next eight-year term it could name the successor to Khamenei, who is 76 and has been in power since 1989. (Additional reporting by Bozorgmehr Sharafedin and Parisa Hafezi; Editing by William Maclean and Louise Ireland) By Babak Dehghanpisheh BEIRUT (Reuters) - President Hassan Rouhani and his allies won big gains in elections that could deepen Iran's engagement with the world after his government ended years of sanctions by agreeing to curb its nuclear program. The outcome in the results for Tehran on Monday was a blow to the conservative Islamic establishment, although it retains decisive power due to Iran's unwieldy dual system of clerical and republican rule. Most of the lawmakers who failed to win re-election to the new parliament strongly opposed the nuclear deal, including Mehdi Kouchakzadeh, who called Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif a traitor, and Rouhollah Hosseinian, who threatened to bury the negotiators under cement for agreeing to concessions to world powers. "This election can be a turning point in the history of the Islamic Republic," said an editorial in reformist newspaper Mardomsalari, whose managing editor, Mostafa Kavakebian, won a parliamentary seat in Tehran. "The biggest achievement of this election is the return of reformists to the ruling system ... so they won't be called seditionists or infiltrators anymore," he said, referring to hardliners who accused reformists of links to the West. Rouhani and allied centrists and moderates won 15 out of the 16 Tehran seats in the 88-member Assembly of Experts, which is tasked with choosing the country's next supreme leader, final election results for Tehran showed. Some of the 15 elected in Tehran were in both conservative and reformist electoral lists. Two prominent conservatives, including the speaker of the powerful clerical body, were among those ousted in the capital. Candidates on the reformist list also took all 30 parliamentary seats in the Tehran constituency, up from just two previously, final results released by Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli showed. Beyond the capital, their gains were more limited, with conservatives keeping hold of many seats in both bodies. The twin polls, for the assembly and parliament, were seen by analysts as a crucial moment for Iran after years of isolation, and a vote of confidence in Rouhani's government and his detente policy with the West. KEY CONSERVATIVES OUT "It was a healthy, legal and very good election," Fazli said. He said turnout was 62 percent and there had been very few irregularities. In his first comment since the polls, Iran's deeply anti-Western Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei praised the high turnout. He made no direct comment on the results but suggested the newly elected bodies should not be influenced by the West. The hardline chairman of the Assembly of Experts, Mohammad Yazdi, lost his seat. So did Mohammad-Taghi Mesbah-Yazdi, an arch-conservative who was widely seen as the spiritual mentor to conservative former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. A prominent exception was Ahmad Jannati, who squeezed in at 16th place. Jannati is also the chairman of the Guardian Council, a hardline vetting body that disqualified the majority of prominent reformist and many moderate candidates from running for both the elections. Leading conservative lawmakers who opposed Iran's new oil and gas contracts aimed at attracting foreign investment and economic reforms proposed by Rouhanis government, also lost their seats, according to final results. That opens the way for changes to economic policy that will boost foreign investment and trade with the West, businessmen and analysts said. BOOST FOR TRADE, INVESTMENT The outgoing parliament had acted as a brake on Rouhani's plans to strengthen the private sector, tackle corruption and welcome foreign investors. "In economic affairs the next parliament will be much better than the current parliament," said economist Saeed Leylaz, once an adviser to reformist former President Mohammad Khatami. In an online video, Khatami urged people in Tehran to vote for the "list of hope". Its members gained all of the capital's 30 seats in the parliamentary elections and its 14 seats in the Assembly vote. Iranian media is banned from mentioning Khatami's name or publishing his pictures. He issued a separate online statement on Monday praising Iranians for the result and asking the new lawmakers to push for economic development and more political freedom. Hossein Shariatmadari, editor-in-chief of Kayhan, a newspaper closely associated with Khamenei, accused reformists of trying to create what he called an "illusion of a victory". "The structure of the Iran's ruling system is such that no political faction can change the main policies rooted in its core principles. People's vote is limited to the responsibility they have been given in the constitution," Shariatmadari wrote. Iran's political system places significant power in the hands of the conservative Islamic establishment including the Guardian Council, which vets all laws passed by parliament. The council published a statement praising the "enthusiastic" presence of Iranians in the twin votes, state TV said. A Reuters tally of official results published so far suggested a strong showing by the Rouhani camp and independents across the country in the parliamentary poll, with candidates on the reformist list taking 30 percent of the seats, conservatives 40 percent and independents 17 percent, with 13 percent of seats requiring runoff contests. More than a dozen women won seats. Pro-reform lawmakers had accounted for less than 10 percent of the outgoing chamber. Analysts say the large number of independents may be significant as they could cooperate across ideological lines with Rouhani's government. "It will take a few months for the new parliament's precise shape to become clear. The independents will play a key role in the next parliament's decisions," said political analyst Hamid Farahvashian. "We don't know many of the new lawmakers and their political tendencies." There will have to be run-off contests for 34 seats in late April because no one won the required 25 percent of votes cast. (Additional reporting by Bozorgmehr Sharafedin and Sam Wilkin; Editing by William Maclean, Philippa Fletcher and Pravin Char) Lt-Cdr. John Williston remembers the daytime darkness after Iraqi troops began blowing up Kuwaiti oil wells during the Persian Gulf War 25 years ago. It was January 1991, and he was stationed at a prisoner camp on the border of Saudia Arabia and Kuwait. "The sky was black. We got up in the morning and there was no sunrise. There was no sun," he said. "We thought, 'My goodness, has there been a nuclear bomb? What has happened?' Your skin would be slippery with oil for days." The Persian Gulf War was Canada's first major battle since the Korean War (1950-53). More than 4,000 Canadian air, navy and land personnel joined an international coalition to force invading Iraqi forces out of Kuwait. for Veterans and dignitaries gathered for a ceremony at the Canadian War Museum on Saturday to mark the 25th anniversary of the liberation of Kuwait. Abdulhamid Alfailawaki, the ambassador of Kuwait, expressed "profound gratitude" to Canada. "A true friend of Kuwait," he said. After delivering a history of the war during the ceremony, Williston said the mission began with uncertainty over how much force the military would use. "When we went over there, we weren't entirely sure we were going to war," he said. "We had this tremendous tradition of peacekeeping and patrolling and supporting and humanitarian aid but not of actual combat, not of actually going into war." After the bombing began, he watched one colleague's hair go from jet black to salt-and-pepper in six weeks. "People were literally turning grey overnight. It was the psychological aspect of being in the war and being bombed," he said. By Alana Wise (Reuters) - If Republican Presidential hopeful Ted Cruz lands a win in the nominating contest in his home state of Texas on Tuesday, part of the credit will go to support from a small and often overlooked interest group: homeschoolers. The Senator's campaign has invested months of effort courting the well-organized network of families who educate their children at home - often to avoid constraints on religion in public school - in the hopes they can keep a big chunk of conservative voters away from his rivals, billionaire Donald Trump and Senator Marco Rubio of Florida. "They were crucial to our win in Iowa and will be in Texas (as well)," said Cruz campaign spokeswoman Catherine Frazier, referring to Cruz's only victory in a string of four contests for the party's presidential nomination so far that have otherwise been swept by Trump. The Cruz campaign has used its message of religious liberty and small government to draw some 6,670 members to its "Homeschoolers for Cruz" coalition in recent months - many of whom campaign on his behalf. "One thing to understand about homeschoolers is we are all networked," said Ken Cuccinelli, a member of Homeschoolers for Cruz and an occasional campaign surrogate. He said the group has used email pleas, door-knocking, and old-fashioned word-of-mouth to win votes. "The real rock stars are the teenagers. They have so much energy... And work ethic. They just churn through work like us old people don't." Cruz's campaign is betting that support like that will help him secure a win in Texas - the biggest prize among the 12 states holding Republican nominating contests on Super Tuesday. Texas has 155 delegates and a big win for Cruz could potentially shift the balance of the race to decide who will be the Republican nominee at the Nov. 8 presidential election. Trump currently has 82 delegates to Cruz's 17. Only around 3.5 percent of schoolchildren in the United States are homeschooled. But the families that endorse homeschooling can have outsized political influence in some states and are often conservative. Story continues Many proponents of homeschooling share two important traits: a bent toward religion and a tendency to carefully guard against education policy changes that could affect them personally. "(Cruz) is going to make sure that the federal government will not infringe on what we believe is our God-given right," said Will Estrada, a Virginia-based co-chair of Homeschoolers for Cruz and a lawyer at the Home School Legal Defense Association - which does not typically endorse candidates before the general election. CRUZ LEADS TEXAS Homeschoolers help candidates tap into the evangelical vote, long thought to be Cruz's firewall in Southern states, even though he has struggled to win the conservative Christian vote amid the challenge by Trump. Cruz leads Trump in Texas, 36.2 to 26.6 percent, according to a RealClearPolitics poll average, one of few leads predicted for the Texas senator for March 1 contests. The stakes are high for Cruz on Tuesday. At a recent presidential forum at Regent University in Virginia, also a Super Tuesday state, Cruz warned that a runaway victory for Trump could make the billionaire businessman unstoppable." Marlin Bontrager, a homeschooler parent whose family gospel band tours the country by bus, said he's supporting Cruz in part because he worries that secular education has contributed to a drop in the American intellect and the rise of Trump, as well. "Our educational system has(...) dumbed down our society. And we're seeing the effect of that this election," he said, referring to the broad support for Trump. In 2008, homeschoolers in Iowa mobilized around then-Republican presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee, helping him win the state. (Additional reporting by Luciana Lopez; Editing by Richard Valdmanis and Alistair Bell) Student Competitions Santa Clara U Students Code for Humanity Saturday morning in Silicon Valley dozens and dozens of students settled in to come up with apps to help two organizations serving the poorest people. Santa Clara University's Association for Computing Machinery chapter held its third annual hackathon, "Hack for Humanity." In a hackathon, competitors are allotted a specific amount of time to build a project that fits a given theme. The 24-hour event brought together participants from area colleges studying not just computer science or engineering but also business, biotech, communications and graphic design. Students worked individually or in teams of four to develop applications for either of two recipients. One is Catholic Charities, where coders were encouraged to improve one of its many services and programs for "very low income people." For example, the students could come up with apps for improving the organization's existing job skills training, immigration test training or nutrition information programs. The other is VillageTech, a company that has created Looma, a low-power, affordable portable computer and projector box for classroom use in schools in developing countries. There, the hackers are supposed to come up with apps for use by students in Nepal, such as creating a content management and navigation system, to build an on-screen keyboard, to add to the maps available for Looma, to improve the speech capability, to create a tool for managing the webcam and related functions. Students donate the code they write, which is often at a prototype level, to the university, which in turn donates it to the nonprofit interested in deploying it. Judges rate the projects on criteria such as user interface, functionality and level of difficulty. This year's prize was $1,000. "I am always impressed by what these students can do in 24 hours," said Silvia Figueira, director of Santa Clara U's Frugal Innovation Hub, in a press release. "It is incredible to see the energy and excitement in the room when the hackathon starts. Being able to use their computing skills to help an underserved community is an amazing experience for the students." Google began testing its autonomous driving technology in 2009 and now has some 70 vehicles, including Lexus cars, pictured, adapted by Google and in-house designed cars (AFP Photo/Glenn Chapman) (AFP/File) San Francisco (AFP) - Google on Monday said that its self-driving car bore some of the blame in a recent fender-bender after making the kind of assumption a human might have made. A Lexus car converted into an autonomous vehicle by the Internet company had a low-speed collision with a transit bus on February 14 in what marked the first time that Google laid some of the responsibility for a crash on the software brains. "This is a classic example of the negotiation that's a normal part of driving -- we're all trying to predict each other's movements," Google said in a February monthly report about the performance of its self-driving cars. "In this case, we clearly bear some responsibility, because if our car hadnt moved there wouldnt have been a collision." A report filed with the California Department of Motor Vehicles contained details of the incident. It said the Lexus was in Mountain View, where Google and its parent company Alphabet are based, with a test driver capable of taking control in position when the autonomous vehicle pulled toward a right-hand curb in anticipation of making a right turn. The vehicle stopped after detecting sandbags near a storm drain in its path, then waited for a break in traffic to get around the obstruction, the report indicated. After several vehicles passed, the self-driving car eased back into the center lane believing an approaching transit bus would stop, Google said. The bus did not stop. "Our test driver, who had been watching the bus in the mirror, also expected the bus to slow or stop," Google said in its monthly report. "And we can imagine the bus driver assumed we were going to stay put. Unfortunately, all these assumptions led us to the same spot in the lane at the same time." The self-driving car was moving about two miles per hour when it collided with the side of the bus, which was traveling about 15 MPH, the accident report filed by Google said. Story continues The accident was reviewed and software modified to "more deeply understand" that buses and other large vehicles are less likely to yield to the self-driving cars, according to Google. But critics of the autonomous cars were not so forgiving. "This accident is more proof that robot car technology is not ready for auto pilot and a human driver needs to be able to take over when something goes wrong," Consumer Watchdog privacy project director John Simpson said in a release. "The police should be called to the site of every robot car crash and all technical data and video associated with the accident must be made public." Google has previously disclosed accidents involving its self-driving cars, but maintained that they resulted from the actions of humans and not its technology. HOUSTON, Feb. 29, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Talara Oil and Gas LLC announced today the formation of a new venture to acquire oil and gas properties. The Company plans to focus its initial campaign on producing assets in both North and South America. The newly formed company will be led by Manuel Pablo (Manolo) Zuniga-Pflucker, President and Chief Executive Officer. We are excited to launch this venture at a time when oil and gas companies are looking for ways to divest properties in an effort to preserve their cash. We will focus initially on Peru, where we believe there are opportunities to build a portfolio of onshore assets that, with proper management and the application of appropriate technologies, are sustainable at todays commodity prices, Mr. Zuniga stated. Additionally, we plan to look at certain assets in other regions of the Americas that provide strategic growth. We have closed our initial round of funding having secured seed capital to allow the management team to focus on multiple opportunities. Mr. Zuniga has spent over 30 years in the oil and gas industry, most recently as the chief executive officer for Houston based BPZ Energy, which operated on and offshore properties in Peru where significant oil and gas discoveries were made, and in Ecuador held a non-operated oil producing property. Under Mr. Zunigas tutelage, BPZ discovered oil in the Z-1 Block in Peru and brought the oil online through the use of the first FPSO commissioned in Peru. Mr. Zuniga started his career with Occidental Petroleum before starting BPZ Energy. Mr. Zuniga holds a Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Maryland, where he currently is a Visiting Committee member, and a Master of Science in Petroleum Engineering from Texas A&M University, where he currently is a member of the Universitys International Advisory Board. Mr. Zuniga is joined on the management team by Greg Smith who will lead the finance, treasury and capital markets initiatives. Mr. Smith most recently spent five years with Houston based Energy XXI, Ltd and also served in key leadership roles at BPZ Energy from 2007 to 2011. He brings over 20 years of experience in the oil and gas sector. Mr. Smith holds a Bachelor of Science in Communications from Missouri State University and a Masters in Business Administration from the Mays Business School at Texas A&M University. Additionally, Mr. Chuck Fetzner will lead the Companys asset acquisitions and development. Mr. Fetzner brings over 35 years of managing exploration and development projects in the United States, Peru, Colombia, Argentina, Chile, China and Africa. Mr. Fetzner also held important positions at Sun Exploration and Production, Oryx Energy and Apache Corporation. Mr. Fetzner holds a Bachelor of Science in Geology from the University of New Hampshire. I am pleased that Messrs. Smith and Fetzner have joined me in this new venture. Chuck brings valuable experience across both conventional and unconventional assets cross four continents Mr. Zuniga continued. He will lead an advisory board that includes Dr. Fernando Zuniga y Rivero, Mr. James B. Taylor, and Mr. Jose N. Alvarez. Dr. Zuniga y Rivero brings over 50 years experience in oil and gas, starting with Standard Oil Co. in northwest Peru, later heading Petroleos de Peru and discovering large oil and gas fields in Perus northern and southern jungle. He later joined The World Bank where he also helped the discovery of oil and gas fields worldwide. Mr. Taylor has over 40 years experience with international oil and gas companies where he was involved in major oil and gas discoveries and development with Texaco in Ecuador, with Occidental Petroleum in Peru, Ecuador, Colombia and Venezuela, and with Canadian Occidental in Yemen and the North Sea. He has also served on the Boards of public corporations including Willbros, TMBR-Sharp Drilling and BPZ Resources, where he was Chairman. Mr. Alvarez is a production and reservoir engineering professional with over 36 years of experience in the oil and gas industry. Mr. Alvarez has gained global recognition as the creator of a number of engineering and software solutions aimed at production data management for optimizing oil and gas field production. Currently Mr. Alvarez is Chairman of the OVS Group where he developed its flagship One Virtual Source as the premier platform for customer-focused engineering solutions. Prior to founding OVS Group, Mr. Alvarez was VP of Technology at BPZ Energy, VP of Development with Schlumberger Information Systems, and founder of OGCI Software which was acquired by Schlumberger." Greg will lead our efforts to finance our new venture. He brings key contacts and relationships that will allow us to obtain the needed financing to move forward with strategic acquisitions and joint ventures. He will count on the important support of Mr. John (Jay) Lendrum III, Chairman of Nuevo Midstream LLC, who will serve as a founding Company Manager. I am confident Mr. Lendrums extensive network and financial acumen will assist us in accessing the capital markets, Mr. Zuniga stated. Talara Oil & Gas LLC will be based in Houston, Texas. KANSAS CITY, Mo., Feb. 29, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- via PRWEB - American Century Investments announces a series of promotions to its Investment Management team: Sherwin Soo, CFA Sherwin Soo, CFA, 43, senior investment analyst, is promoted to portfolio manager on the Emerging Markets Equity team. He will co-manage the firm's Emerging Markets Equity strategy, including the Emerging Markets and NT Emerging Markets funds, as well as a new Emerging Markets Small Cap strategy. Soo will share portfolio management responsibilities with current portfolio managers Patricia Ribeiro and Anthony Han. Soo, a member of the Emerging Markets team since joining the firm as an investment analyst in 2011, brings 19 years of experience to his role. Prior to joining American Century, he was a securities analyst at Neuberger Berman and William D. Witter. He also worked as an investment manager for Asia-Pacific equities at HSBC Asset Management and as an investment banking financial analyst for Salomon Brothers in both New York and Hong Kong. Soo holds a bachelor's degree in biological neuroscience from the University of Pennsylvania, a bachelor's degree in finance from the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania and an MBA from the MIT Sloan School of Management. He is a CFA charterholder. Rob Bove, CPA Rob Bove, CPA, 43, senior investment analyst, is promoted to portfolio manager on the U.S. Systematic Large Cap Core strategy, which includes the Fundamental Equity fund. Bove will share portfolio management responsibilities with co-portfolio managers Greg Woodhams, CFA, Justin Brown, CFA, and Joe Reiland, CFA. He also continues to provide fundamental research and analysis for the U.S. Systematic Large Cap Core (Fundamental Equity), U.S. Large Cap Growth (Growth/VP Growth) and U.S. Focused Large Cap Growth (Focused Growth) strategies. Bove has been a member of the U.S. Large Cap Growth team since joining American Century Investments in in 2005. Previously, he was an analyst for U.S. Trust Company of New York. Bove earned a bachelor's degree in accounting from Villanova University and a master's degree in business administration with a concentration in finance from New York University. Nalin Yogasundram Nalin Yogasundram, 40, senior investment analyst, is promoted to portfolio manager on the U.S. Opportunistic Mid Cap Growth strategy, including the Heritage and VP Capital Appreciation funds. Yogasundram will share portfolio management responsibilities with portfolio managers David Hollond and Greg Walsh. He also continues to provide fundamental research and analysis for the U.S. Opportunistic Mid Cap Growth (Heritage/VP Capital Appreciation) and U.S. All Cap Growth (All Cap Growth) strategies. Yogasundram joined American Century Investments in 2013 as an investment analyst on the U.S. Small-Mid Cap Growth/U.S. Small Cap Growth team and moved to the U.S. Opportunistic Mid Cap Growth/U.S. All Cap Growth team later that year. Previously, he served as an equity analyst with T. Rowe Price for five years. Before attaining his master's degree in business administration, Yogasundram was an engineer for several telecommunication firms, including Fujitsu Network Communications. He began his career with Texas Instruments. Yogasundram holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from the University of Arkansas, a master's degree in electrical engineering from Southern Methodist University and a master's degree in business administration from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania. Don Owen Don Owen, 53, lead quantitative researcher for the Legacy Large Cap, Legacy Focused Large Cap, Legacy Multi Cap and Veedot funds, is promoted to portfolio manager and senior quantitative analyst on Legacy Multi Cap and Veedot. Owen will share portfolio management responsibilities with current co-portfolio managers John Small and Stephen Pool. A member of the team that initially created the quantitative models used to launch the Legacy Funds and Veedot in 2002, Owen brings 18 years of industry experience and more than 30 years of technical experience to his role. He joined American Century Investments in 2002 as a knowledge engineer for AC Tomorrow and later became a director of knowledge engineering in 2006 and lead quantitative researcher in 2009. Owen holds a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from California State University, Long Beach, and a bachelor's degree in electrical engineering from the University of Southern California. About American Century Investments American Century Investments is a leading privately held investment management firm, committed to delivering superior investment performance and building long-term client relationships since its founding in 1958. Serving investment professionals, institutions, corporations and individual investors, American Century Investments offers a variety of actively managed investment disciplines through an array of products including mutual funds, institutional separate accounts, commingled trusts and sub-advisory accounts. The company's 1,300 employees serve clients from offices in New York; London; Hong Kong; Mountain View, Calif.; and Kansas City, Mo. Jonathan S. Thomas is president and chief executive officer, and Victor Zhang and David MacEwen serve as co-chief investment officers. Delivering investment results to clients enables American Century Investments to distribute over 40% of its profits to the Stowers Institute for Medical Research, a 500-person, non-profit basic biomedical research organization. The Institute is the controlling owner of American Century Investments and has received dividend payments totaling over $1 billion since 2000. For more information about American Century Investments, visit http://www.americancentury.com. You should consider the fund's investment objectives, risks, and charges and expenses carefully before you invest. The fund's prospectus or summary prospectus, which can be obtained at americancentury.com, contains this and other information about the fund, and should be read carefully before investing. American Century Investment Services, Inc., Distributor 2016 American Century Proprietary Holdings, Inc. This article was originally distributed on PRWeb. For the original version including any supplementary images or video, visit http://www.prweb.com/releases/2016/03/prweb13239453.htm As of August 26th, 2021 Yahoo India will no longer be publishing content. Your Yahoo Account Mail and Search experiences will not be affected in any way and will operate as usual. We thank you for your support and readership. For more information on Yahoo India, please visit the FAQ The Centre for European Reform is a think-tank devoted to improving the quality of the debate on the European Union. It is a forum for people with ideas from Britain and across the continent to discuss the many political, economic and social challenges facing Europe. It seeks to work with similar bodies in other European countries, North America and elsewhere in the world. This is a snus I've been looking forward to for quite some time now, and the day is finally upon us. Conny Andersson's latest creation has been unleashed! Last year, I reviewed Mellgren's IPA Edition (Single Cut) , but Conny wasn't happy with that and commissioned a second batch. This batch comes in Single Cut and also in White Portion! Those of you who know me know that IPA is my favorite style of beer, so this snus is something that I have been more excited about than usual. Conny produced this snus at AG Snus and labeled it for Mellgren's Fine Tobacco in Sweden. This snus was inspired by an IPA that Conny is particularly fond of, Ballast Point Sculpin . However, for these reviews, I've been enjoying this snus with some IPAs that I enjoy - Goose IPA out of Chicago and Schlafly's Grapefruit IPA out of St. Louis.For those of you who have been wanting to try this, it's available online to the US via SnusCENTRAL.com and the EU via TopSnus.com . Mellgren's IPA snus is made of tobaccos from four different sources. Mata Norte from Brazil which contributes sweetness and chocolate tones. Theres also tobacco from Nueva Concepcion in Guatemala which contributes elements of chocolate, nut and fruitiness. Theres Amish tobacco from Lancaster which contributes leather and earthy tones. And lastly, theres tobacco from South Africa which is the backbone of the tobacco blend. It contributes more tobacco taste and a higher nicotine content.The first thing you'll notice is that this is single cut, not finely ground like most Swedish Snus in the los format. I suggest using a snus portioning tool if you're like me and want your los in a neat little prilla. This stuff isn't the easiest to handbake. One thing I, and other reviewers, have noted, is that this is a little dryer than other los snus products.When you open the can, the aroma that comes through is primarily citrus with lightly sweet floral notes in the background. The taste is a little different from the white portion version, however. I notice more citrus in this one than I did in the white portion. Also, the flavor of hops is a little more in the background, as are the herbal and floral notes. One thing that I do enjoy about the los is that I can taste a mild tobacco character in the background. I didn't pick up any tobacco in the taste when it came to the white portion, so that was a nice surprise!If you're a fan of beer, particularly IPA, this is definitely a snus to try out. Even if you're not a beer person, this snus is flavorful enough that it could appeal to anyone! The Photographic Society of Chattanooga will present Tom Vadnais on Thursday, March 17. Mr. Vadnais is an automotive engineer and forensic photographer by day, but his passion is landscape photography. He currently teaches at the Great Smoky Mountain Institute in Tremont. He was a founding member of the North Georgia Camera Club Council, and is a past president and current board member of Georgia Nature Photographers Association. Mr. Vadnais will be discussing, How To Photograph Water. The presentation will begin at 7 p.m. at the St. John United Methodist Church, 3921 Murray Hills Dr. in Chattanooga. Visitors are welcome. For beginners or photographers that want to get their camera off of Automatic, join the Boot Camp at 6 p.m. The discussion will be on Using the Tools to make your Creative Image: 1) Begin with the end in mind; 2) Depth of Field vs. Motion; 3) Isolate vs. Environment, 4) Story Telling vs. Historical Record; 5) Who Cares vs. Treasured Moment; and 6) Print vs. Screen Output. For more information, call 423-344-5643 or e-mail David Temples at president@chattanoogaphoto.org. For more information about the Photographic Society of Chattanooga, visit http://chattanoogaphoto.org. Calais (France) (AFP) - Clashes broke out between French riot police and migrants on Monday as authorities began destroying makeshift shelters in the grim shantytown on the edge of Calais known as the "Jungle". Police lobbed tear gas cannisters at migrants who protested as around 20 workers moved in to start pulling down the shacks by hand, initially under blue skies as an icy wind blew. As night fell some 150 migrants threw rocks and struck vehicles heading for England on a port road which runs next to the sprawling camp, staying there for an hour or so, some wielding iron bars, an AFP reporter said. Police responded with tear gas. Several trucks and cars were blocked by migrants on the stretch of road overlooking a piece of ground which had previously been part of the Jungle. Earlier, migrants and members of the British "No Borders" activist group, who launched projectiles at the police, set fire to about 20 shelters at the camp, as running clashes continued through the afternoon. By 1845 GMT police had back control of the port road, which remained strewn with debris. Three members of No Borders and one migrant were arrested, according to local government officials. - 'Infinitely sad' - The demolition of the southern half of the camp began after a court petition by charities to stop it was rejected last week. "It's infinitely sad to see the waste of so much work that we've done in the past months," said Maya Konforti of the Auberge des Migrants (Migrants' Hostel) charity. Volunteers and aid workers have spent months trying to improve conditions in the camp, built on a former toxic waste dump on the outskirts of Calais. Local authorities, who have promised that no one will be evacuated by force, say 3,700 people live in the camp, and that between 800 and 1,000 will be affected by the eviction. But charities say a recent census they conducted counted at least 3,450 people in the southern part alone, including 300 unaccompanied children. Story continues The evicted migrants have been offered heated accommodation in refitted containers set up next door to the camp, but many are reluctant to move there because they lack communal spaces and movement is restricted. They have also been offered places in some 100 reception centres dotted around France. But the migrants do not want to give up their hopes of Britain, which they try to reach daily by sneaking aboard lorries and ferries crossing the Channel. "These people want to reach Britain and won't leave. They will end up in even more hardship, particularly in winter," Konforti said. - Under pressure - The demolition of the Jungle comes ahead of talks on Thursday between French President Francois Hollande and British Prime Minister David Cameron. Britain has put substantial pressure on France to stem the flow of migrants getting across the Channel, and has funded a huge increase in security measures around the port and tunnel in Calais. The Jungle has played into fraught discussions about Britain's possible exit from the European Union (EU). Some opponents of "Brexit" say that if Britain were to leave the EU, the British government would lose the ability to call on France to stop the refugees from trying to make their way across the Channel. "We are carrying out our orders so that the migrants leave the camp and we will continue this work this morning... so that the destruction work can continue calmly and that the migrants are not under pressure from the No Borders activists," said local authority head Fabienne Buccio on Monday. The migrants in Calais make up a tiny fraction of those fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East and Africa. They try to climb on to lorries boarding ferries for Britain, which they are drawn to by family or community ties, because of a shared language, or because they think they have a greater chance of finding work there. Baquba (Iraq) (AFP) - A suicide bomber struck a Shiite funeral northeast of Baghdad Monday, killing at least 24 people, including militia commanders, in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group, officials said. The blast in Muqdadiyah, which also wounded dozens of people, threatens to spark another round of revenge attacks against Sunnis in the area, like those carried out after bombings in January. The latest attack targeted a funeral for a well-known Shiite member of the Beni Tamim, one of the main tribes in Diyala province, where Muqdadiyah is located. Sadiq al-Husseini, the head of the Diyala province security committee, said that a commander from Asaib Ahl al-Haq and another from Badr -- two powerful Shiite militias -- were killed in the blast. Officials in the province appealed for calm in the aftermath of the attack. Muqdadiyah residents should "join hands to get out of the current crisis," said Ali al-Tamimi, the head of the Muqdadiyah district council. And Diyala Governor Muthanna al-Tamimi said that: "Muqdadiyah will not fall into the trap of sectarian strife promoted by some politicians." The Islamic State jihadist group claimed the attack in an online statement, saying a suicide bomber who detonated an explosive belt targeted a gathering of militiamen in Muqdadiyah. It listed the names of some who were allegedly killed. Suicide bombings are a tactic almost exclusively employed in Iraq by IS, a Sunni extremist group that overran swathes of the country in 2014. - Revenge attacks against Sunnis - The Muqdadiyah attack came a day after bombings in a Shiite area of northern Baghdad killed at least 39 people and wounded at least 76, the deadliest attacks in the capital so far this year. IS said in an online statement that two of its suicide bombers carried out the Baghdad attacks. IS also claimed an attack at a cafe in Muqdadiyah that killed at least 20 people and wounded dozens in January, after which revenge attacks targeted Sunni properties in the area. Story continues Human Rights Watch said Shiite militiamen abducted and killed civilians in the Muqdadiyah area after the attack, in addition to burning homes and mosques. Amnesty International also said that militiamen destroyed Sunni mosques, shops and homes following the January attack, and that authorities subsequently "turned a blind eye to this shocking rampage". The death of militia leaders in the Monday bombing increases the odds of another round of revenge attacks in the area. Iraq turned to Shiite militia forces in 2014 to help counter an IS onslaught that overran large areas north and west of Baghdad, and they have played a key role in halting the jihadist advance and later pushing them back. But they have also carried out repeated abuses during the conflict that ultimately feed mistrust of the government and are harmful to Baghdad's efforts to reassert and maintain control in recaptured areas. Diyala province was declared "liberated" from IS in late January 2015, but ending their open control of populated areas has not brought an end to attacks by the jihadists. Dublin (AFP) - Ireland's political uncertainty looked set to drag into a third day after Prime Minister Enda Kenny's coalition government was ousted in an election that produced no clear alternative. With 134 of 158 seats counted, voters had clearly punished Kenny and junior coalition partner Labour, leaving historical foes Fine Gael and Fianna Fail with the only clear numbers to form a government, a prospect both would struggle to swallow. It is not clear when final results will be known after Friday's vote but weeks of political bargaining and a potential re-run could lie ahead after a swing to anti-establishment and anti-austerity candidates that echoed recent elections in other eurozone countries like Spain. Kenny's Fine Gael was set to be the largest party with a much-reduced seat count, closely followed by Fianna Fail. The two would would have a majority between them, but any deal would have to overcome a century of bitter political rivalry and could be a struggle for their old guard and supporter base. "I certainly wouldn't advocate it because I believe your word is your bond," deputy Fianna Fail leader Eamon O Cuiv said following his re-election in Galway West, stressing that any move would have to be approved at a party conference. "We fought this election on the basis that we weren't going in with Fine Gael." Irish newspapers hailed the election as a "rebellion" and an "earthquake" that transformed the political landscape. Some final results from tightly-fought constituencies will not emerge until at least Monday. Parties emphasised the need to await the full breakdown of seats in parliament before discussing potential deals. - 'Circle the wagons' - Options now include an election re-run, an unstable minority Fine Gael government supported by Fianna Fail, or a once-unthinkable alliance between the two parties, which have taken turns ruling Ireland since 1932. Story continues "In the past, this would have been anathema to them," said Gail McElroy, political science professor at Trinity College Dublin, adding that time could help bring the old foes round. "You can't immediately say you'll go into government because it will look like you're lying and you've broken promises. "If you leave it a little while, three, four weeks, and there's no government on the table, it might be a little easier." There would be strong opposition to any deal within the parties but they both occupy the centre to centre-right ground and would together have a healthy majority. Commentator Brendan O'Connor wrote in the Irish Independent: "The best guess anyone can make today is that the establishment are going to have to hold their noses, circle the wagons and huddle together to create a government, to keep the barbarians from the gate." Kenny faced anger within his party over the result but has resisted calls to resign, saying he had a "duty and responsibility" to see that Ireland has a stable government. - 'A seismic change' - An alliance between Fianna Fail and Fine Gael would make Sinn Fein the main opposition party in Ireland, a coup for the party once seen as the political voice of the Irish Republican Army. The left-wing party has capitalised on anger over austerity and was set to add as many as 10 seats to its previous count of 14 in the 158-seat Dail. "We're into a new era, we have seen in this election a seismic change," Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams said after he was re-elected in his County Louth constituency. Negotiating parties have until March 10 to make a deal, when lawmakers are due to meet in the lower house of parliament Dail Eireann and in theory, appoint a prime minister. Ireland exited a bailout programme in 2013 and has become the fastest growing country in the eurozone in recent years, with predicted GDP growth of 4.5 percent in 2016. But many of the country's 4.6 million people complain they have not felt any improvement amid a housing crisis and the continued effects of years of spending cuts and tax hikes. "They weren't listening to the people, it's as simple as that," said Susan O'Brien, a horticulture worker in her early 40s. KUWAIT (Reuters) - Kuwait's interior minister said on Monday that a man who rammed his car into a group of police officers last week, killing one of them, "belonged to an organization" - a wording that suggested the incident was an Islamist militant attack. The Western-allied oil exporter has been on alert against Islamist militants since a suicide bomber killed 26 people in June last year at a Shi'ite Muslim mosque in an attack claimed by Islamic State. Sheikh Mohammad al-Hamad al-Sabah, speaking at a ceremony to honor the deceased police officer, said the man who carried out the attack "belonged to an organization," state news agency KUNA said, quoting a statement by the interior ministry. It did not elaborate on the type of organization and the interior ministry spokesman could not immediately be reached for comment. (Reporting by Ahmed Hagagy and Sami Aboudi, editing by Richard Balmforth) Mogadishu (AFP) - At least 30 people have been killed in twin bomb attacks claimed by Shebab Islamists at a busy restaurant in the Somali city of Baidoa, the regional governor said Monday. "The official number of the dead has reached 30 people -- all of them civilians -- and 61 others have been wounded, 15 of them seriously," Abdurashid Abdulahi, governor of Bay region, told AFP. An initial car bomb struck a popular restaurant in a busy part of the regional capital on Sunday afternoon, with a suicide bomber nearby hitting people as they fled the area. "The explosion occurred in a densely populated area," said Abdirahman Ibrahim, a police officer in Baidoa. Another policeman, Abdi Hared, said there were "twin blasts" from a car bomb and a suicide bomber. The explosions shredded the roofs of nearby buildings, tore chunks out of vehicles and left bodies, plastic chairs and tables strewn across the road. The Al-Qaeda aligned Shebab jihadists claimed responsiblity for the attacks, saying local officials were targeted. "The mujahideen carried out two massive explosions in Baidoa targeting restaurants used by members of the apostate South West Administration," the Shebab said in a statement. The regional administration in Baidoa is protected by troops of the 22,000-strong African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), which is supporting the internationally-backed government of Somalia. The African Union's top official for Somalia, Francisco Caetano Madeira, condemned Sunday's attack. "I am saddened by the loss of innocent lives through acts of terror committed by ruthless individuals who have no value for life," he said. On Friday Shebab gunmen stormed a hotel in the capital Mogadishu and bombed a nearby park killing at least 14 people and wounding 18. Forced out of Mogadishu in mid-2011, the Shebab are on a mission to disprove suggestions they are close to defeat and have claimed several spectacular attacks in recent months, both in Somalia and in neighbouring Kenya. Story continues On Sunday leaders and officials from the countries contributing troops to AMISOM met in Djibouti for a summit after the European Union announced plans to reduce its funding of the force by 20 percent. Kenya's president Uhuru Kenyatta said AMISOM need more international support to defeat the Shebab and strengthen Somalia's weak government and regional security. "Whereas the continent is footing the bill of stabilising Somalia by blood and flesh, it is disheartening that the international community is even contemplating to reduce support to AMISOM," Kenyatta said. Tower Construction Company has filed suit against the Hamilton County Water and Wastewater Treatment Authority in a dispute over how much it is owed by work in the service lateral repair program. The Circuit Court suit alleges contract breaches by WWTA for work performed in East Ridge, Signal Mountain and Hamilton County. The suit maintains that the firm is owed at least $267,414 for the East Ridge work, at least $205,860 for the Signal Mountain work, and at least $80,494 for the Hamilton County work. It was claimed that the WWTA breached the contracts "by frustrating and preventing Tower's performance of the work, failing to grant required time extensions and to compensate Tower for the excusable delays to the project, and failing to pay Tower for unabsorbed overhead as a result of the significant and material deviations in the contract quantities." The suit says the WWTA required Tower Construction Company to file unreasonably high bonds, which it said hurt it in being able to obtain other work. Its overall capacity for performing bonded work was reduced by more than $2.4 million - the aggregate penal amount under each of the three WWTA contracts. The suit was filed by attorney Bill Colvin. Thousands protested in Pakistani cities Monday against the execution of a man hailed by hardline Islamists as a hero for killing a provincial governor who was seeking reform of the blasphemy law. Protests against the hanging of Mumtaz Qadri were held in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and several smaller cities, with demonstrators burning tyres and chanting slogans. But most rallies dispersed peacefully after security was stepped up at flashpoints across the country of some 200 million, including in Rawalpindi where hundreds of supporters gathered at Qadri's family home. Qadri, a police bodyguard to Salman Taseer, shot the liberal Punjab governor 28 times at an Islamabad market in 2011. He said he was angry at the politician's calls to reform the blasphemy law. Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in the Islamic republic, and Qadri was hailed as a hero by many conservatives eager to drown out calls to soften the legislation. Critics say the law -- which carries the death penalty -- is largely misused, with hundreds languishing in jails under false charges. Analyst Hasan Askari said the next 24 hours would be "sensitive" for the government, adding that Islamabad had weighed the danger of mass violence against the need to "wash away the suspicion" of sympathy for militancy. The biggest protest was held in the port mega-city of Karachi Monday afternoon, with around 7,000 people taking to the streets. In the eastern city of Lahore, around another thousand people protested, while hundreds others demonstrated in Pakistan-held Kashmir, Peshawar, Multan, and other smaller cities. Up to 900 people demonstrated in the southwestern city of Quetta. Qadri was hanged in Rawalpindi's Adiala jail early Monday, senior local police official Sajjid Gondal told AFP. National media played down news of the execution and the protests on orders of the government, two senior anchors told AFP. Most channels led their bulletins with Pakistan's win for best short documentary at the Oscars. Story continues Mosques near Qadri's family home broadcast the news, with cries heard from inside the house as hundreds of mourners arrived. The funeral is expected to be held Tuesday. "I have no regrets," Qadri's brother Malik Abid told AFP, tears rolling down his cheeks, while women chanted nearby. He said the family had been called to the prison Sunday evening by officials who said Qadri was unwell. - 'Ready to sacrifice' - But when they arrived, Qadri greeted them with the news that authorities had deceived them and that his execution was imminent. "I am proud of the martyrdom of my son," Qadri's father Bashir Awan told AFP, adding he was ready to sacrifice all five of his other sons "for the honour of the Prophet". Taseer's son Shehryar said on Twitter the hanging was a victory for Pakistan, but not for his family. "The safe return of my brother is the only victory my family wants," he wrote, referring to his sibling Shahbaz Taseer, who was kidnapped later in 2011 -- reportedly by the Taliban. As well as calling for blasphemy law reform, Taseer had been vocal in his support of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who has been on death row since 2010 after being found guilty of insulting the Prophet Mohammed. Qadri's lawyers drew on Islamic texts to argue that he was justified in killing Taseer, saying that by criticising the law the politician was himself guilty of blasphemy. That argument was rejected by the Supreme Court which in December upheld the death sentence, sparking rallies. Pakistan ended a six-year moratorium on the death penalty in December 2014. Last month authorities announced they had executed 332 people since then. Rights group Amnesty International condemned the execution. "The death penalty is always a human rights violation, regardless of the circumstances or nature of the crime," said the group's South Asia regional director, Champa Patel. By Jonathan Allen WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. State Department said it would release the final batch of Hillary Clinton's emails from her time at the department's helm later on Monday evening, meeting an extended deadline set by a federal judge. The release of the remaining 1,700 emails yet to be made public does not mark the end of a controversy that has dogged Clinton's campaign to be elected president in November since her use of a private email server in her home first came to light a year ago. The Federal Bureau of Investigation has taken the server and U.S. Department of Justice attorneys are investigating whether laws were broken through the unusual arrangement. The State Department's inspector general and at least two Republican-led congressional committees are doing similar inquiries. The State Department itself is investigating how much of the information in more than 1,800 emails now marked as classified was classified at the time it was sent, in breach of government rules. Members of the public are still fighting the department in court for access to thousands of public records connected to some of Clinton's closest aides. And just last week a Democrat-appointed federal judge granted a request by a conservative group suing the State Department under open records laws to seek sworn testimonies from department officials and Clinton aides later this year to see whether the arrangement was intended to thwart public access to government records. State Department spokesman John Kirby told reporters on Monday that an additional email between Clinton and President Barack Obama was being withheld in full from the public, bringing the total number to 19, and that an additional email was being withheld in full at the request of an unspecified law-enforcement agency. The emails will be released at 6 p.m. EST on Monday (2300 GMT), the State Department said. Clinton, the Democratic front runner in the presidential campaign, has said her email arrangement broke no rules and that the government will vindicate her, and says she welcomes the public release of the roughly 30,000 work emails she returned to the government in 2014. Lawyers for the State Department told a federal judge last week they still did not know who in the government authorized Clinton's email arrangement or why, almost a year after its existence became public. Clinton has said the arrangement was for her convenience, but that she now regrets it. For more on the 2016 presidential race, see the Reuters blog, Tales from the Trail (http://blogs.reuters.com/talesfromthetrail/). (Reporting by Jonathan Allen and Idrees Ali; Editing by Andrea Ricci) African Conferees Back Universal Access to Vaccinations "Our children are our most precious resource, yet one in five fail to receive all the immunizations they need to survive and thrive, leaving millions vulnerable to preventable disease," said Dr. Kesetebirhan Admasu, minister of Health for Ethiopia. "This is not acceptable." Ministers of health from many African countries agreed Feb. 25 at a Ministerial Conference on Immunization in Africa on a declaration to promote the use of vaccines to protect people of all ages against vaccine-preventable diseases and to close the continent's immunization gap by 2020. The conference took place in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia and was hosted by the World Health Organization's Regional Offices for Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean, in conjunction with the African Union Commission. It was the first-ever ministerial-level gathering focused entirely on ensuring that children in Africa can get access to life-saving vaccines, according to WHO. "Our children are our most precious resource, yet one in five fail to receive all the immunizations they need to survive and thrive, leaving millions vulnerable to preventable disease," said Dr. Kesetebirhan Admasu, minister of Health for Ethiopia. "This is not acceptable. African children's lives matter. We must work together to ensure the commitments we make in Addis Ababa translate into results." A report issued at the conference indicated routine immunization coverage has increased considerably across Africa since 2000 and measles deaths fell by 86 percent between 2000 and 2014, so the introduction of new vaccines has been judged to be a major success. But 20 percent of Africa's do not receive all of the most basic vaccines they need; measles, rubella, and neonatal tetanus remain endemic, and many countries have fragile health systems that leave immunization programs vulnerable, the report found. The signed declaration commits countries to increasing their financial investment to deliver routine immunizations and roll out new vaccines. "We all agree that vaccines are one of the most cost-effective solutions in global health. Investing in immunization programs will enable African countries to see an outstanding economic benefit," said Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, chair of the Gavi Board and former finance minister of Nigeria. "If we can ensure that all African children can access life-saving vaccines, no matter where they are born, we will have a golden opportunity to create a more prosperous future for communities across our continent." * UK plans to exempt bankers working for smaller lenders * UK regulators believe there is flexibility in rules * EU authorities to hold off from legal challenge for now (Adds European Commission reaction) By Huw Jones LONDON, Feb 29 (Reuters) - British financial regulators have said they won't apply the European Union's cap on banker bonuses to smaller lenders because they pose fewer risks to the financial system. Under EU rules, all bonuses should be no bigger than fixed pay but can rise to twice that amount with shareholder approval. London has the largest number of bankers hit by the cap, which extends to asset managers in a banking group. The reform was aimed at quelling public anger over large bonuses at a time of austerity in many EU states following the financial crisis. National regulators must explain if they diverge from the rules as set out by the bloc's European Banking Authority (EBA). The Bank of England's Prudential Regulation Authority, and the Financial Conduct Authority said in a joint statement they have told the EBA that they disagree with a blanket application of the bonus cap rule on all firms. The PRA and FCA said they interpreted EU law as allowing for flexibility in relation to the size and complexity of a lender. "The PRA attaches a great deal of importance to the principle of applying policies in a proportionate manner consistent with the legal provisions," Bank of England Deputy Governor and PRA Chief Executive Andrew Bailey said in a statement. More flexibility in applying financial regulation from Brussels was at the core of Britain's "new settlement" negotiated 10 days ago by Prime Minister David Cameron before a British vote in June on whether to stay in the EU. London's banking sector is among the industries with most to lose if Britain leaves the EU, according to many economists who say an exit could hamper its ability to operate in the single European market and lead to thousands of jobs being shifted to the euro zone. "The PRA and FDA's announcement will come as a big relief to smaller banks and asset managers in the UK who had been concerned that the cap would apply to them from 2017. It remains to be seen whether any other EU regulators will take a similar approach," said Alexandra Bedims, an employment lawyer at Linkages. Britain was outvoted on the EU law capping bonuses, saying it would prompt banks to raise fixed pay and make them less nimble in cutting costs in a market downturn. The EBA noted on Monday an announcement it made last year that the cap should be applied without exemptions. The bloc's executive European Commission has powers to take a member state to court for not complying with EU rules. It is already assessing an EBA recommendation to give smaller lenders more flexibility on some aspects of banker pay rules. "At this stage it is too early to talk about whether or not to launch infringment proceedings. The Commission needs to first carefully look into and assess the detailed information provided by EBA," a Commission spokeswoman said. The UK regulators said that all large and systemically important banks, which would include RBS, Lloyds, HSBC and Barclays, must continue to apply the bonus cap. (Editing by Adrian Croft and Keith Weir) Open Educational Resources Learning Registry Accepting OER Submissions via Twitter Participate Learning now allows educators to submit open educational resources (OERs) to its Learning Registry by tweeting a link with the #ParticipateOER hashtag. The Learning Registry was created to aggregate information about learning resources available online so educators and students can find them more easily. Through this Twitter campaign, Participate Learning hopes to encourage more educators to submit OERs to the registry and consequently increase its volume of resources. "The success of the Learning Registry ultimately depends on the volume of submissions," said Alan Warms, CEO of Participate Learning, in a news release. "This new offering minimizes the costs and effort associated with submitting resources to the Learning Registry." To submit an OER to the registry, people can simply tweet a link to it along with the #ParticipateOER hashtag. Participate Learning and its community of educators and digital resource experts will review all #ParticipateOER submissions before adding them to the registry. In the coming weeks, Participate Learning will enable educators to provide additional metadata about their submitted resources. After tweeting an OER with the #ParticipateOER hashtag, senders will receive an automated reply with a link where they can add metadata such as the resource's publisher, location, content area and standards alignment. They will also have the option of submitting a review of the resource. "There is so much trapped wisdom in our schools that could be supporting deeper learning for students," said Robert Dillon, director of innovation at Affton School District, in a prepared statement. "Participate Learning has developed a simple and elegant tool to democratize resources for the benefit of all." The Learning Registry is a joint effort of the Department of Education and the Department of Defense, with support of the White House and numerous federal agencies, non-profit organizations, international organizations and private companies, according to information on the registry's site. It currently contains curated links to nearly 400,000 open educational resources. Users can search for resources by topic or browse by subject or standard. Anybody who is interested in following the #ParticipateOER submissions can view a live stream on Participate Learning's site. Were already forgetting about the EU deal. Even though it was only unveiled on Friday night, its been quickly eclipsed by Boris Johnsons manoeuvring and the usual Tory civil war on Europe. Give it a few days and youll barely remember it happened. Thats just as well, because the deal itself is typical of the way Cameron does politics. It is an advertising billboard for a product which doesnt exist. Special status Cameron claims to have secured the UK special status within the EU where it, and it alone, is not subject to ever-closer union requirements. It is recognised that the United Kingdom is not committed to further political integration in the European Union, the deal states. References to ever-closer union do not apply to the United Kingdom. It sounds impressive, until you consider that this is merely a reformulation of a statement the European Council put out in June 2014: The concept of ever closer union allows for different paths of integration for different countries, allowing those that want to deepen integration to move ahead,while respecting the wish of those who do not want to deepen any further. [My italics] Cameron and his European negotiation partners treat the public like a fool, gambling that they can sell them a rewording as a fundamental constitutional development. It is nothing of the sort. But even if that June 2014 statement didnt exist, the deal would still be meaningless. 'Ever-closer union does not have any direct legal force, except for arguably and this really is arguable giving the European Court of Justice a sense of narrative and perceived political purpose. And even if that werent the case, removing it now does not remove existing EU obligations. Eurozone One of Camerons missions was to safeguard countries outside the Eurozone from the decisions made by those inside it. His great accomplishment here is that non-eurozone countries can force a debate among EU leaders on Eurozone decisions theyre concerned about. Story continues This does not address the problem Cameron and George Osborne have long worried about that a caucus of Eurozone countries can outvote everyone else on the European Council. That remains the case. It is the case almost by definition. Camerons victory in securing a mechanism which triggers a debate is eerily reminiscent of the petitions system for the UK parliament, which is also functionally meaningless. Organisations are happy with debates. They just dont like to change things. The debate mechanism here is clearly a sop meant to give Cameron something he can point to back home. It wont stop any Eurozone law, regardless of the effect it has on the UK. Benefits Camerons most substantial accomplishment comes on benefits, but take a magnifying glass to it and it falls apart under observation. The prime minister claims he can reduce immigration to the UK and control benefit spending by reducing benefits given to the EU migrants who come here. Just before his Bloomberg speech, Cameron said he wanted powers to impose an 'emergency brake on immigration altogether. Then Angela Merkel got on the phone and told him hed never get that, so perhaps he should stop mentioning it. He duly did. Now the emergency brake refers to stopping benefits for EU migrants for a set amount of time when they arrive in a new EU member state, if the member state can prove that it is suffering a harsh drain on its welfare provisions and job market due to immigration. The UK will qualify automatically for this status. Cameron wanted the emergency rules to apply for 13 years for all EU migrants. Instead it will last for seven and apply only to EU migrants arriving from now on. The emergency brake cant be extended. There is a lot that is wrong or misleading about this proposal. Firstly and most importantly, it will do nothing to stop immigration. People come to the UK because they want jobs, not benefits. There are innumerable studies demonstrating this. None of them come from the Westminster government, of course, because it apparently has never bothered to try to calculate how much EU migrants cost. Treasury minister Lord O'Neill was asked by Labour peer Lord Beecha last week to reveal the annual benefits paid to EU migrants in the UK and the contribution of those individuals to the public purse through income tax receipts and VAT. His answer? The information is not available. The government has tried previously to pretend that 40% of recent European Economic Area (EEA) migrants claim UK benefits, but the UK Statistics Authority said the data it was based on an ad hoc Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) release was unsatisfactory. But if we jokingly assume for a moment that the DWP is a paragon of reliable statistical data, it itself found that just 2.2% of the people who claim welfare benefits in the UK are EU nationals (114,000 out of five million). Put simply: EU migrants dont come here to claim benefits, no serious people believe they do, and reducing their benefits entitlement will do nothing to stop them coming here. So if the UK cant show that EU migrants are putting our welfare system at risk, how is the emergency brake being activated? Its being done as a favour. The seven year period is exactly tallied to the period Britain allowed eastern European new member state citizens in without controls. So, fine its a favour. Whats a few mythical emergency brakes between friends? Except that there are potential European repercussions which follow from what is being agreed here. Its one of the rare areas where there is a concrete proposal in the deal albeit one based on fiction. Other member states will be able to apply to the European Council for an emergency brake, probably through a qualified majority vote on a proposal from the Commission (read this for more on how the Council, the Commission and the parliament work). The European parliament will vote on the mechanism which is used, but its not clear if itll have a part in deciding whether a member state qualifies. Heres the problem: the first country to use the emergency brake - the UK - will hit the brake without there being an emergency. After all, the brakes should only apply when an exceptional situation exists on a scale that affects essential aspects of [a member states] social security system, including the primary purpose of its in-work benefits system, or which leads to difficulties which are serious and liable to persist in its employment market, or are putting an excessive pressure on the proper functioning of its public services. As Jonathan Portes has pointed out, none of this describes the UK in 2016. In fact, it is quite the opposite: radically reducing immigration would be likely to affect our social security system, lead to employment market problems and put excess pressure on the functioning of our public services. After all, London schools are outperforming the rest of the country by miles, partly because of immigration. NHS waiting times are actually lower in areas with higher immigration. And EU migrants pay more into the welfare system than they take out. As for the labour market Crisis, what crisis? And if it doesnt apply now, when would it? This is the Bizarro world of policy-making: we are blaming the thing which is solving a problem for creating it. Everything means the opposite of what is really the case. Any Brit is used to the sort of debate by now, one driven by Daily Express headlines and shrieking half-mad backbench politicians. But this is something else. Were now exporting it to the rest of the continent. Any member state should be able to apply an emergency brake, because the first and only instance of it being used sets a benchmark so low as to be comically absurd. Child benefit Finally Cameron claims to have won a victory on child benefit being paid by the UK for children overseas when their parents work in the UK. He didnt get the ban he wanted, but did manage to get the payments indexed to the standard of living in the home country. Couple of problems here: Firstly, EU discrimination rules means this will inevitably end up being applied to UK citizens living abroad and sending child benefit back to their kids in the UK, so that should be subtracted from the savings it will apparently secure. Secondly: What tiny savings they are. Its estimated that 27 million is paid out in this way per year, compared to a total child benefit bill of 12.22 billion. Thats 0.22%. The Scottish referendum cost 15.8 million, so if the EU referendum goes the same way merely holding it will use over 50% of the savings supposedly won by the measure. The EU deal has almost nothing of substance within it. Its proposals address problems which do not exist with solutions which will not work. The sums it seeks to save are so miniscule as to be laughable. And where it does have potential far-reaching ramifications, they are to entrench Britains tabloid myth-making into the regulatory structure of the European Union. Ministers will not say that it is meaningless, because they need to pretend it has worth in order to justify their campaign to remain. Liberal and left-wing europhiles will not say it is meaningless because they are in the same cynical game as Cameron is in pretending its worthwhile in order to persuade the public to vote In. And right-wing eurosceptics are unlikely to say that is meaningless, because to do so tacitly acknowledges that all the arguments about benefit tourism and the damage of immigration theyve been peddling for years are clearly nonsense. Its a conspiracy of silence around an empty document. The only things we can really learn from the EU deal is that Cameron is a terrible negotiator and that our political discourse has lost all contact with reality. Four American journalists have been arrested in Bahrain, including one who allegedly took part in attacks on police, authorities in the Persian Gulf nation have said. Bahraini police said the reporters provided "false information" to enter the country as tourists before carrying out "media activity without a license". An Interior Ministry statement alleged one of the US journalists was seen "wearing a mask and participating in attacks on police alongside other rioters in Sitra". Reporters Without Borders said the detained journalists included Anna Day and three members of her camera crew. The group called on Bahraini authorities to release them "rapidly and without harm". The US Embassy in Manama said it was "aware of the arrest of four US citizens in Bahrain", but declined to comment further citing privacy concerns. Bahraini police did not name the journalists, but said those held included one woman and three men. A spokesperson for Ms Day's family rejected the suggestion that any of the journalists were involved in illegal activities. A statement from the state-run Bahrain News Agency said the journalists had "been afforded full legal rights in line with the kingdom's procedures and constitution while investigations continue". Witnesses told the AP news agency the Americans were being held amid a long crackdown on dissent in the island nation. The reporters were said to be on the island covering the anniversary of Bahrain's 2011 uprising - the largest of the Arab Spring wave of demonstrations. The protests were driven by the country's Shia majority, who demanded greater political rights from the Sunni-led monarchy. Some low-level unrest continues five years on, particularly in Shia communities. Reporters Without Borders described Ms Day and her crew as experienced journalists, who most recently worked on virtual reality documentaries in Egypt and Gaza. Bahrain requires international journalists to obtain special media visas before entering Bahrain to work. The country is considered a US ally and is home to the US Navy's 5th Fleet. MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - Mexican authorities were searching on Monday for a container of radioactive material used for industrial X-rays that was stolen along with a car in central Mexico this weekend, the latest in a series of such case in the country. The small yellow container of Iridium 192 was inside a red Chevrolet pick-up stolen in the municipality of San Juan del Rio on Saturday morning, the ministry said in a statement. Provided it is kept in its covering, the material is not dangerous, but if found, a protective perimeter of 30 meters (33 yards) should be set up around the container, the ministry said. "It was classed as a Category 2 radioactive source," a spokesman from the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the U.N. nuclear watchdog, based in Vienna, said via e-mail. Category 2 means that if not managed properly, the material could be fatal to someone exposed for a period of hours to days. The IAEA has offered to aid Mexico upon request, the spokesman added, but Mexico has not asked for help. Following the theft, the ministry issued a warning over the material for the states of Queretaro, Hidalgo, the State of Mexico, Guanajuato, San Luis Potosi and Michoacan. In December 2013 and April 2015 radioactive material was also reported stolen in Mexico. (Reporting by Mexico City Newsroom; Additional reporting by Shadia Nasralla in Vienna; Editing by Alistair Bell) KKR has agreed to buy into seeds provider Advanta Enterprises in a deal which values the business at about $2.25bn. Soros Brother Investments and the African Development Bank were among backers of Enko Capital Managers as it reached an Chicago Public Schools Announces Latest Layoffs And Cuts By Zoe Greenberg in News on Feb 29, 2016 7:56PM Photo credit: Justin Carlson The Chicago Public Schools laid off a total of 62 employees throughout the district Monday, including 17 teachers. Of the laid-off employees, 43 were full-time, while 19 were part-time, CPS said in a statement. They said they would release a full list of school-by-school budget impacts later Monday. The mid-year cuts are the latest effort by CPS to balance its disastrous budget in the face of a series of setbacks, including the lack of a new contract with the Chicago Teachers Union and no pension relief from Springfield. The district said that the cuts will help to eliminate $85 million from school budgets. Earlier this year, CPS principals received midyear budget reductions. The fact that these cuts needed to happen in the first place is unfortunate for our principals, teachers and - most of all - our students, schools chief Forrest Claypool said in a statement. Our objective is to secure fair funding for our students, bring Illinois up from last in the country for education funding and work with Springfield to start treating students in poverty fairly, so our students get the education they deserve. These painful cuts are not what we want to do, but they are critical to keeping our school doors open. Chicago Teachers Union Vice President Jesse Sharkey told CBS Chicago that he originally expected lay-offs in the thousands. We really dont feel like these cuts are necessary. I think theyre punitive. There is money available in the city and the system, in order to avoid cutting, because cutting in the middle of a school year is really disruptive, Sharkey told CBS. Mayor Rahm Emanuel laid blame at the feet of Gov. Rauner for the new round of cuts, claiming that the state is penalizing districts with poor children. In late January, CPS laid off 227 non-teaching employees. This latest round of layoffs affected a wider range of positions, including teachers, teachers aides, and other support staff. Photos: Black Lips Headline The Empty Bottle's Not-So-Frozen Block Party By Jessica Mlinaric in Arts & Entertainment on Feb 29, 2016 8:20PM The Empty Bottle hosted its third annual Music Frozen Dancing block party on Saturday, and it wasn't very frozen at all. Instead of the blizzard conditions of years past, the outdoors-in-February music festival happened to land on a sunny day where temperatures reached the mid 50's. Georgia quartet Muuy Biien kicked things off at the free event with a vigorous punk rock set on the outdoor stage. Chicago post-punk favorites Meat Wave took the stage next for an adrenaline-fueled set that began with a blown amp (kudos on the quick recovery) and ended partially shirtless. As Meat Wave frontman Chris Sutter told Chicagoist, "Playing a music festival in the winter is like the most Chicago thing you can do." Michigan natives The Spits kept the energy high into the late afternoon, as attendees of all ages enjoyed the springlike weather. (It was some young attendees' first music festival experience.) Long lines at Goose Island's ice bar peaked mid-festival; guests also sipped on Dark Matter coffee and snacked on chili. "I came to see my friends and also the Black Lips," said one attendee. "There aren't many winter festivals, and the weather is so nice today it doesn't feel like winter." The mosh pit was in full effect for headliners the Black Lips. The rowdy Atlanta garage rockers had fans crowd-surfing and singing along to favorites like "Family Tree" and "Bad Kids." The huge turnout could have overwhelmed a lesser event staff, but the Empty Bottle's team kept the day running smoothly. "I think we won calendar roulette with that one," said Empty Bottle Presents Manager, Brent Heyl. "The vibe from the crowd at Music Frozen Dancing always feels overwhelmingly warm and inviting," he added. "I think because we are all in agreement about how great/ridiculous it is to be a part of an outdoor concert in the middle of winter. The fact that it was a balmy 50 degrees this year? [I'm] speechless. Sincere gratitude to everyone who came out and especially to our amazing neighbors." We know better than to assume Chicago's winter will end quietly, but Music Frozen Dancing gave us spring fever, at least for a day. On Leap Day, Illinois Towns Used To Let Women Run The Government By Mae Rice in Arts & Entertainment on Feb 29, 2016 8:40PM Aurora, Illinoisone of the three towns in questionin 2015, a little over 20 years after the Leap Day traditions described here came to an end (photo via Center for Neighborhood Technology on Flickr) There was a whole 30 Rock episode about strange, fictional Leap Day traditionswear yellow and blue! Get free candy from Leap Day William and uh, grow gills!but in reality, American Leap Day traditions aren't much more normal than the show's. Especially in Illinois. Leap Day has long been a day when American gender roles flipped, according to Vox. Finally, on Leap Day, women could finally propose to just about every dude, like they secretly yearned to on all the other days! (Was the thinking.) From 1932 through 1980, three Illinois townsAurora, Joliet and Morrisput a special spin on this Leap-Day-as-, according to Vox. The towns gave their usual city council members, police officers, and firefighters the day off, and had women work those jobs for a day instead. The womenbecause women can't be trusted with jobs! Har har harthen used their political power to jokingly pressure hotties to marry them, according to a 1932 Leap Day newspaper clipping that Vox found. Here's the bulk of it: Guilty, pleaded Mr John Livingston, a popular United States airman, when he was arraigned at the police court at Aurora, Illinois, on a charge that while he was the town's most eligible bachelor he refused to marry the police magistrate, Miss Florence Atkins. Your honour is beautiful, but I have maintained my plea of guilty, said Mr Livingston as he awaited sentence. Miss Atkins, passing sentence, said: In accordance with the old Leap Year custom. I must fine you. You are ordered to buy me a new silk dress. The prisoner was then released and under the care of the dark eyed Chief of Police, Miss Dorothy Ward, was taken to a shop to make the purchase. It's so textbook sexist that it's... almost beautiful. Miss Dorothy Ward is "dark-eyed," while Mr. John Livingston has no physical features whatsoever; even Livingston's fine is paid not in cash, but in a dress, the only currency women can understand, I guess. If you would like some more textbook sexist coverage, never fear: A 1948 Life Magazine feature on Illinosi Leap Day practices, which Vox tracked down, was headlined "SPINSTERS' HOLIDAY: The she-wolves of Aurora, Illinois celebrate Leap Year by running officials out, bachelors in." Yes, women who show somewhat sarcastic romantic agency for one day every four years are definitely like wolves. Hoo boy! They're insatiable! Perhaps the most telling thing about this whole stereotype-riddled tradition is how recently it ended, though. Aurora last celebrated Leap Day with a gender-swapped municipal government in 1984, according to Vox. (For context, computers had been invented by then, and like, Thriller had already come out. It was modern times!) Drug companies are nervous about producing bluetongue vaccine that may not get used in the UK in the event of an outbreak of the disease, the National Sheep Association has warned. Low vaccine uptake in the past has made pharmaceutical companies reluctant to stockpile large amounts of a vaccine against the disease, said NSA chief executive Phil Stocker. Production of bluetongue vaccine was subsidised by the government following the last UK outbreak of the virus in 2007. But it was left with 7.5m doses of the vaccine on its hands after fewer farmers than expected chose to treat their livestock. See also: Hundreds ditch bluetongue vaccine over breeding fears The NSA says it understands that the French government owns all existing stocks of vaccine, which could be used to help the country to contain the bluetongue BT-V virus. But if an outbreak did occur in the UK later this year, similar to the current bluetongue outbreak affecting sheep flocks in France, then they must be prepared to react, Mr Stocker added. The vaccine takes some time to produce so we must be responsible as an industry, think well ahead about the risk to our flocks and herds, and ensure clear communication between us, government and animal health companies. With the movement of live animals tightly controlled, the likely source of introduction to the UK will be infected midges coming across the Channel from France, with the level of risk dependent on weather conditions, temperatures and the extent of virus circulation in France. The NSA is calling for the whole livestock industry to be vigilant to bluetongue over the coming months and given the current unavailability of vaccine to have open dialogue about potential uptake. As there are currently no stocks of vaccine available here in the UK we would expect vaccine manufacturers to be watching this situation very closely, said Mr Stocker. NSA is in contact with the relevant companies and, while it is difficult to make predictions, we need a clear steer from our members and other sheep farmers on how we proceed. Mr Stocker said: In the meantime, we have discussed the situation with colleagues in the Sheep Veterinary Society and collectively, while there is absolutely no need to panic, we would encourage all sheep and cattle farmers to be aware of the risk we face, contacting their vet immediately if there is any suspicion regarding their stock. Farmers should be extra vigilant given that most stock are likely to be immunologically naive to the virus, and that experience in France suggests a low level of clinical signs. Defra has said vaccination levels of 80%, 50% or even 25% in bovine and ovine species by 1 May 2016 would have a significant impact on the rate of spread of disease but there is little cost incentive for individual farmers to vaccinate at present, and no vaccine available to do so. In the Berlin winter of 1943, Jewish husbands of Aryan wives were imprisoned in a factory on a street named Rosenstrasse. The women stood on that street and protested in defiance of the Nazis. They stood their until reunited with their men. Margarethe Von Trotta, director of the recent film, Hannah Arendt, has won dozens of awards for her films, including Best Actress and best Cinematography for this one.Sponsored by the BFUU Social Justice Ctee as part of our Conscientious Projector series.Donation requested. No one turned away.Wheelchair accessible.Ph:510-275-4272For occasional email notices of peace/eco/social justice alerts and related events at BFUU, send any email to:For weekly notices of BFUU services etc. go to: On February 16, a US District Court in California, responding to an FBI request, ordered Apple to write an entirely new operating system for its iPhone, one that would give Federal authorities full access to encrypted private information on those phones. Protesters in the Bay Area cities of San Francisco and Palo Alto organized demonstrations saying the FBI demand would set a dangerous precedent and threaten the safety and security of millions of iPhone users worldwide.Elsewhere in the US, demonstrators in more than 40 cities across the US rallied in front of Apple stores to protest the Department of Justice demand that Apple help hack an iPhone used by one of the San Bernadino shooters. One of the major rallies held on the February 23 national day of action was in front of FBI headquarters in Washington, DC.The Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) has said it will be filing an amicus brief in support of Apple with the courts. Shahid Buttar of EFF wrote: "The FBIs demands reflect a familiar pattern of security agencies leveraging the most seemingly compelling situationsusually the aftermath of terror attacksto create powers that are later used more widely and eventually abused. The government programs monitoring the telephone system and Internet, for example, were created in the wake of the 9/11 attacks. Those programs came to undermine the rights of billions of people, doing more damage to our security than the tragic events that prompted their creation." Valentine's Nude Love Parade gypsytaub [at] gmail.com) by Gypsy Taub Valentine's Nude Love Parade organized by the Body Freedom Network was the very first in history of San Francisco. We plan to make it an annual event and inspire other cities to do the same. Almost 50 nudists marched from the Castro to the City Hall. After our recent victory in district court we have been able to hold fully permitted nude parades. Join us on Sunday, March 6th for the Nude Women's Day Parade! Attn: This SUNDAY MARCH 6th @ 12 noon @ Jane Warner Plaza - NUDE WOMEN'S DAY PARADE! This past Valentine's weekend we had our very first annual Nude Love Parade. When I decided to organize this parade and sent out a press release the media literally jumped on our story. We have a lot of wonderful supporters among news reporters. Whether they openly express their support for our cause or just write encouraging stories in many different publications, they have always been at the core of our movement and have helped us grow while helping us get our message across. Most of the media coverage we got in the past few years was overwhelmingly positive and supportive. This time was no different. We hadn't done anything since late September and the media clearly missed us. There was so much publicity and so much excitement both from the media and from nudists from all over the world. I had 4 radio interviews (one of them with live105) and an interview with channel 7. SFGate did a big story and so did SFist and a few others. After all the interviews were done and the stories were out it seemed like everybody knew about our parade. I went to the auto part store the morning of the parade and the clerk at the desk said he knew about it and was planning to go as soon as he gets off work at noon. On the night after the parade I was at the airport on my way to Seattle. The guy in line behind me knew about the parade. Publicity was through the roof! Till the last minute I didn't know if we were going to have a permit and had no idea how many people would show up. But the permit was finally granted after all and then almost 50 nude and at least 3 times as many dressed participants showed up at the rally in Jane Warmer Plaza. This time we had quite a few women. We ended up having a march of about 60 participants, most of whom were fully nude. This was truly a huge victory for the body freedom movement and freedom of self-expression. It was also a great victory over the corrupt city government, it was truly a victory of the people! To give you a little bit of history if you are not familiar: under the nudity ban one is subjected to a $192 fine the first and second time they get naked in public and then on the third violation within one year they can get a $500 fine and a year in jail. A year in jail for merely taking your clothes off on a warm day! The infamous nudity ban was spear-headed by the corporate sell out district 8 Supervisor Scott Wiener and then passed by the full Board of Supervisors with a 6 to 5 vote. The swing vote David Chiu told us in person that he was on our side and that he goes to Burning Man but he made it clear that he would still vote against us. We assumed it was because of his future career plans. Supervisors Christina Olague, David Campos and John Avalos put up a big fight against the nudity ban, Eric Mar and Jane Kim voted against it. All 5 of the progressive Supervisors voted against the nudity ban. They saw through Scott Wiener's lies and understood that the nudity ban was about oppression and nothing else. They as well as everyone else on the board were fully aware of the huge opposition from the people of San Francisco. When the public hearing was held to discuss the proposed nudity ban 2/3 of the attendees were against the legislation. We held numerous protests inside and out side the City Hall. I was the first one to get naked at a public hearing at the City Hall. When I did it for the second time a number of people spontaneously took their clothes off too. The third time (when the vote was finalized) 6 of us (Gypsy Taub, Ckiara Rose, George Davis, Kelsey Beyer, Natty from Germany and Ray Barkowski) got naked at the Board of Sups meeting. We were detained and let go of every time except for the last vote when Ckiara was arrested by the orders of Scott Wiener (I was told that the police were talking about receiving a phone call from Scott Wiener). We held dozens of protests in the streets of San Francisco. We were cited and arrested many times. According to the nudity ban itself we are allowed to be nude at city permitted parades and fairs. That clause was used like a flag by Scott Wiener and the City attorney to give everyone an illusion that our rights to free speech were going to be respected at least at those parades. First of all, our rights to free expression should be respected and protected by our government 24/7/365 (all the time). Second of all, the city permitted parades excuse was just a smoke screen. The City attorney had no intentions of letting us be nude at parades. As soon as the nudity ban passed major annual city permitted parades were attacked in strange ways. Bay to Breakers, for instance, mysteriously lost its regular sponsor. Gay Pride was pressured to restrict nudity also. I remember hearing complaints about oppressive statements posted on their website. On top of that the SFPD started citing people at those parades and threatening them with arrest even though violation of the nudity ban is only an infraction and therefore is not supposed to be punishable by arrest. We applied for parade permits dozens of times and were either ignored or denied every single time, always with a new excuse. The first time we applied they simply ignored us. The second time they told us that our parade was "unsafe for cars". The next reason for denial of permit was that "it is illegal to be nude under the code 154 etc..." even though parades were clearly exempt from that legislation. The SFPD exhibited amazing creativity in creating one illegitimate excuse after another to deny us permits. The war was on. We continued to protest and get arrested. I believe I was cited and arrested at least 8 times within the first year. But since we had also filed a Federal lawsuit against the city on the basis of free speech violations the city officials were afraid to jail me. It would have been the best thing they could do to lose their case in Federal court so they just left me alone. Federal Judge Chen dismissed almost all our claims (including the ones about us getting arrested at peaceful protests and always being denied permits and being cited at city permitted events that were exempt from the nudity ban). There was only one claim left that was not dismissed. That claim was not good for us (it was about selective enforcement - the SFPD clearly targeted our protests for political reasons while leaving alone the World Naked Bike Ride and a Naked Sword film shoot in the Castro. Winning that claim could have simply encouraged the SFPD to cite and arrest the World Naked Bike Ride participants which was going to only hurt our cause. We settled that claim for about $20,000. That money went to prepare and file an appeal in the 9th district court. We are still in the process of the appeal. In mid September of 2015 we applied for another parade permit for our annual Nude In. The permit was denied as usual. This time however our lawyers Gill Sperlein and Larry Walters went to district court and won. District Judge Seeborg issued us a TRO (temporary restraining order) against the SFPD. They were not allowed to interfere with our parade and were forced to give us a permit. We had an amazing permitted parade on September 26th, 2015. The same cops that harassed us before had to block traffic for us and give us police escort. It was hilarious! It felt weird to us and I am sure it felt no less weird to the cops to have to protect and escort our non-conformist procession of bad-ass naked rebels and revolutionaries. The City had to pay a nice chunk of money to our lawyers for their time. It started becoming expensive to mess with us. Besides, now that so many people are demanding that the Cheif of police Greg Suhr resign over the recent racist texts scandals and the murder of Mario Woods, Suhr is in so much hot water now that he probably feels that he can't afford to violate our rights to free speech like he used to for the past 3 years. Greg Suhr was personally present at our protest on the day the nudity ban was first enforced (February 1, 2013). He gave orders to the 18 officers that were there to arrest us even though nudity ban violation is only an infraction and can only be punishable by arrest if the person refuses to show ID and refuses to sign a citation. I showed my ID to the police. I was never given a chance to sign a citation and I was handcuffed and dragged into a patty wagon in the middle of my speech. Greg Suhr was personally present. He was having a lot of fun. If we take a quick glance at history we will see a clear correlation between Greg Suhr and Adolf Hitler. Both targeted racial minorities, both hated free speech, both prosecuted nudists (which in my opinion is a form of sexual oppression which Hitler was famous for). I am not by any means trying to diminish the tragedy of Mario Woods' murder by the SFPD. I am just pointing out that Greg Suhr is a fascist. And if we learn and get into a habit of recognizing fascism in its early stages we don't have to experience another tragedy like that of Mario Woods. We need to take fascism very seriously because it is as real today in America as it was in Germany in 1933. To get back to the Nude Love Parade, we assembled in Jane Warner Plaza. It was amazing to see such a great turn out. At first there was a huge crowd of supporters most of whom had cameras in their hands, we had some media present but just a few nudusts. But then as if my magic more and more people got naked and soon the plaza was filled with beautiful naked bodies. The weather was absolutely gorgeous. I had my kids with me: my daughter Inti is 15, my son Nebo is 13 and my little son Daniel is 11. All my kids are body freedom activists. They made public testimony against the nudity ban at the very first hearing and made speeches at some of my protests. They enjoy running around naked at permitted parades. I made my speech (the text is published below). We tried to do a group photo with all the nudists but our group was so big and the crowd was so tight that there wasn't enough room for a camera to get the whole group in one shot. Wow! What a wonderful problem to have! It's like the nude parade organizer's wet dream! We finally lined up and started marching down Market Street. The mood was joyous, we laughed and chanted. It was surreal. It seemed like a dream to me. It was a blast to march nude in such a big crowd down the streets of San Francisco together with old friends and body freedom activists with whom we all dreamed this dream into existence. People were honking, waving at us and taking lots of pictures. I heard later that a woman saw our parade, stripped down and joined us. Here are our chants that were chanted: Ho-ho, hey-hey, Body freedom is here to stay! Hey there, dude, You're no prude! Get in the mood, Join us nude! We got skin, You got skin, Love your body - Ain't no sin! Hey hey, how does it feel? Hey, hey, warm, soft and real. You are naked under your clothes Hey hey, what's the big deal? 2, 4, 6, 8, Human bodies all are great! Clothes are boring, clothes are lame! Let's say No to body shame! Body freedom, body freedom, It's not rude, it's not lewd! We'll keep marching in the nude! Shed your clothes, we won the fight! Get your clothing out of site! Join us now, nude or dressed, This parade's a big success! Someone joyously announced to me that Judge Scalia died. "Our nudity killed him, he couldn't take it!" - he laughed. What a great Valentine's Day gift of love to America! If anyone had any doubts that God exists - this should be blatant proof. It felt great to bring our naked bodies to the steps of City Hall that failed to represent us, where we were arrested and harassed by the SFPD so many times. But this time we had a naked crowd standing our ground and representing ourselves. Cathryn Sophia Easily Wins Davona Dale Stakes: The Kentucky Oaks is often overshadowed by its male counterpart, but by the looks of things, as of now, there are two undefeated fillies headed on a crash course to Louisville. No more is Songbird the one who is a guarantee to win the 2016 Kentucky Oaks. Her Eastern counterpart dominated the Grade II Davona Dale at Gulfstream: Cathryn Sophia. The filly went into the Davona Dale with a 3-for-3 record to defend. She immediately showed that she could sit off the pace a bit, like she did in the Forward Gal (G2) before making a move. Jockey Javier Castellano was highly impressed by the filly, which he was aboard for the first time in the Davona Dale. I really liked the way she did it, Castellano said. It was really impressive. It was the first time I rode her. She did it really easy. I liked the way she started the first quarter mile. She was never rank or anything like that. I covered up behind horses, and when I asked her she took off. I can put her in the best, top-quality horses in the country, the way she did it. The filly was able to run the Davona Dale, a one-turn mile event at Gulfstream in 1:36 3/5, which is comparable to Mohaymens 1:36 flat for a mile over the same track later on the card. John Servis has a top filly in his hands. When you get into those two-turn races, you have to have that kind of horse, almost push-button where they can turn it on and turn it off and when you call on them they have something there, Servis said. Today, I think was probably, to me, her most impressive race It was only her fourth start. I think theres a lot more there. Shes showed me a little more every time. Today, she was push-button. Cathryn Sophia now sits on top of the Kentucky Oaks Points Leaderboard with 60 points, over Venus Valentine (50 points), Mo dAmour (50 points), and Songbird (40 points). Cathryn Sophia is bred to be competitive, as her sire, Street Boss was a tough sprinter in his days. He carries on the influential Street Cry/Machiavellian sire line. Cathryn Sophia gets he speed from her sire, but her ability to harness it, save it, and unleash it over longer distances comes from her female line. Her dam, Sheave, is sired by Champion Older Horse Mineshaft (A.P. Indy). Sheave is a daughter of Belterra, a daughter of Unbridled (Fappiano). Cathryn Sophia also has traces of Blushing Groom (Red God), Damascus (Sword Dancer), and Halo. Cathryn Sophia also has inbreeding to Mr. Prospector 4S x 4D x 5D. This means she has Mr. Prospector in the fourth generation both sides of the pedigree plus an extra dose of him in the fifth generation on her dams side. Cathryn Sophia will next target the April 2 Gulfstream Park Oaks (gr. II), a 1 1/16-mile contest at the South Florida oval. Davona Dale Stakes 2016 Replay Houston, TX No doubt, the No doubt, the Bair Hugger warming blanket has made a valuable contribution to medicine. It is standard equipment in almost every operating room in the United States. An electric heater blows warm air through tubes in a disposable blanket draped over the patient during surgery. It prevents patients from slipping into a hypothermic state. These are horrendous complications, says Dr. Augustine. The problem is that when the Bair Hugger Forced Air Warming (FAW) Blanket is used during surgeries involving orthopedic implants such as hip or knee surgery, critics say the system can actually cause deep joint infections, more properly described as periprosthetic infections.Perhaps the biggest critic of the Bair Hugger FAW Blanket is Scott Augustine, MD, the doctor who invented it some 25 years ago.I am not proud of this because I am the inventor, says Dr. Augustine. But, the 3M Company, which currently owns the Bair Hugger product, refuses to tell the people that the product has a problem. Better yet, 3M should take this product off the market. In the meantime, I am on a mission to tell the world about this problem.Dr. Augustine sold the Bair Hugger system in 2004 and turned his attention to inventing other medical devices. One day, several years later while working in his lab, he discovered a flaw in the Bair Hugger system. Heat pushed to the floor by the Bair Hugger system gathered up a storm of bacteria on the operating room floor and would then start rising toward the surgical area.It actually heats the contaminated air down by the floor and causes bacteria to rise, bringing those contaminants up and puts them into the sterile field, says Dr. Augustine.Implants must be kept absolutely sterile and bacteria free during surgery. Just one germ on a knee replacement or hip implant can become a patients worst nightmare.They are different than regular surgical infections, which are easy to treat. You pop out a couple of sutures, add a handful of antibiotics and you are on your way, says Dr. Augustine.With implant surgery, a biofilm develops around that bacteria and becomes indestructible. You have to remove the artificial joint and start over, says Dr. Augustine.There is good orthopedic research that shows none of these patients ever get back to normal, says Dr. Augustine. They are all permanently disabled. Twelve percent describe their post-survival life as worse than death. I have no idea what worse than death is like but it doesnt sound good to me. These are really, really serious injuries, he says.There is no suggestion that the Bair Hugger is inappropriate for soft tissue surgeries such as breast surgeries, colon surgeries, gallbladder surgeries, etc. The problem is with orthopedic implant surgeries that require absolutely sterile conditions.I take no delight in this, but I am on a mission to get the Bair Hugger out of orthopedics. It is a great product, I am not dissing my product, it is a great product and it has changed medicine. But it should not be used in orthopedic surgery, says Dr. Augustine.There are now some 170 civil suits filed against The 3M Company related to periprosthetic infections in patients. Those suits are now consolidated in an MDL in Minnesota.The 3M Company and Arizant Healthcare deny there is a problem with the Bair Hugger system and are vigorously fighting the claims. Parsippany, NJ As we begin our progression into the new year, the parade of As we begin our progression into the new year, the parade of Benicar Lawsuits continues in kind. To that end, a report filed with the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) in the fall revealed that lawsuits at the time numbered over 1,000 and are probably well above that number in the weeks and months since November 6, when the Form 10-Q filed by Allergan plc was filed. Allergan plc used to be known as Actavis, which acquired Forest Laboratories in July of 2014. Forest was involved in the promotion and marketing of Benicar in concert with manufacturer Daiichi Sankyo, until Forest stopped actively promoting Benicar in 2008.According to the SEC filing, Allergan claimed for the quarterly period ending September 30 that there were no fewer than 1,230 Benicar side effects lawsuits alleging sprue-like enteropathy and other adverse reactions. Compare the number with that of early 2015, when a little over 70 cases were on the books when Benicar lawsuits were consolidated into multidistrict litigation.By September 30, that number had climbed to over 1,200. In the four-and-one-half months since, one might speculate what that number may look like nowWe know this: the initial Benicar bellwether trials are expected to get underway late this year. Whats more, given the aging American population and the propensity for high blood pressure (hypertension) across a broad spectrum of society, it would not be beyond the realm of speculation that litigation would increase in step with usage of hypertension medication such as Benicar.The latter has been linked to sprue-like enteropathy, a serious and debilitating gastrointestinal issue characterized by chronic diarrhea, malnutrition and even intestinal damage. Numerous patients suffering from alleged Benicar Illness and Weight Loss wind up in the hospital.There have been deaths reported.It has also been reported that some Benicar plaintiffs have suffered from diarrhea attacks numbering up to 20 in a single day, with weight loss as high as 100 pounds. Such severe weight loss and related complications have triggered infections and cataracts, according to reports.Plaintiffs are asserting that their use of what they allege to be Benicar defective products are responsible for their serious health complications.Defendants in various Benicar Lawsuits include Daiichi Sankyo, the Japanese pharmaceutical company that maintains its US headquarters in the state of New Jersey.For its part, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning in 2013 with regard to the potential for Benicar to trigger serious chronic diarrhea and substantial weight loss. In concert with the release of the FDA Benicar side effects warning, lawsuits soon followed as patients, their caregivers and family members began to suspect Benicar as the foundation for their health concerns.Industry watchers will be tracking the bellwether trials later this year, with substantial interest. The Blue Jays announced that they have signed right-hander Rafael Soriano. The reliever is represented by Octagon, as shown in the MLBTR Agency Database. Soriano will earn $750K if he makes the major league roster, Jon Heyman of CBSSports.com tweets. Soriano, 36, was said to be pitching well in the Dominican League and drew attention from a few MLB teams. The veteran missed most of the 2015 season, not signing until June and then dealing with shoulder troubles, and the Cubs released him in early September. Prior to that, however, he had two relatively successful seasons as the Nationals closer and was terrific in ninth-inning work for the Yankees in 2012. Soriano has a 2.89 ERA, 9.1 K/9, and 2.8 BB/9 in 14 seasons spent with the Mariners, Braves, Rays, Yankees, Nationals, and Cubs. Prior to the 2015 season, Soriano was drawing interest from the Blue Jays, but ultimately did not sign with them. Now, hell try and crack the roster in Toronto for 2016. Naji Abu Nowar, director of Jordanian film "Theeb" that has got a foreign-language film Oscar nomination, said the film has been a struggle to make. "Theeb" recounts the tale of boy coming of age in the Ottoman-ruled Middle East during the First World War. Nowar told Xinhua in a recent interview in London that the film was a "Bedouin Western." It is set among the Bedouin people of what was called the Hejaz Province of Arabia at the time of the film, 100 years ago, and Nowar, who is Jordanian, spent a year living in the area himself with the Bedouin as part of the research for the film. "Everything comes from our experience with the Bedouin, how we chose what period it was set in, what the story was, the music," said Nowar. "That began at the beginning of 2010/12 and went through to 2012, an eight months workshop of acting." Parts of the region are now some of the most strife-torn places in the world, but for Nowar Jordan was a safe place. "One of the sad things tourists do not go that much because of what they have seen in Syria and Iraq, but Jordan is a safe country. I am half British and half Jordanian, so I always knew that and that it would be fine to make films in that area. One of the added bonuses of this film is that it has shown that there is more to the region than just conflict," he said. But the roots of the current war in Syria and the strife in the region can trace many of their origins back to 100 years ago, in the era in which the film is set when the Ottoman Empire found itself part of the wider conflict of the First World War. Nowar did not intend the film to be political. He said, "I make films because I love cinema. I'm not really about the politics. But I think it is very relevant today." "Everything that is happening today is happening because of what was happening in the film and the backdrop of the film. If you want to understand what is happening in the Middle East you need to watch films like this," he said. Nowar said that the film, whose gestation has taken several years and which began before the conflict in Syria, caught the mood of the region in conflict. " I wish I could say I had predicted it but I didn't. I think it was in the zeitgeist. As we were writing the film it was something that all of the people in the region were feeling and it just happened that way," he said. The film has been a struggle to make, and Nowar said that it started as a piece of "guerilla filmmaking" with just a three-man team, but grew and grew. "It is still a very low budget independent film, under the budget of most documentaries," he said. "For us to go on this amazing journey... get to the point where it is now nominated for Oscars is an incredible thing. We are proud for what this does for filmmaking in Jordan." You are here: Home Leonardo DiCaprio [Photo/Xinhua] After six nominations, 41-year-old Leonardo DiCaprio finally took home his first Oscar on Sunday night for his role in "The Revenant." DiCaprio got his first nomination nearly two decades ago at age 22 for "What's Eating Gilbert Grape." He was nominated as the best actor in leading role for five times totally, including this year. He was also nominated as a producer for "The Wolf of Wall Street" at the 86th Academy Awards Ceremony. An ABC News online report said that "To play an 1820s fur trapper, DiCaprio endured subzero temperatures, sat in makeup for five hours to get 47 different prosthetics, shot an intricate stunt sequence involving a bear attack during a torrential rainstorm, ate raw bison liver and lived with a long, scraggly beard for a year and a half. No other best actor nominee can say that." DiCaprio also received Golden Globe, Screen Actors Guild and BAFTA awards this year. Mexico's Alejandro Inarritu won the best director Oscar for drama "The Revenant" about a fur-trapper who survives a bear attack and treks across a desolate landscape in winter. Inarritu was the first filmmaker in 60 years to win a back-to-back director's Oscar. Inarritu won best director last year for "Birdman," which also won the 2015 best picture Academy Award. It was the fourth Oscar for Inarritu and came as little surprise after he won a Golden Globe, a British BAFTA award and a trophy from the Directors Guild Awards for the film. Mark Rylance and Alicia Vikander won the Oscar Awards for Best Supporting Actor and Actress separately. Rylance, 56, beat Sylvester Stallone, Christian Bale, Tom Hardy and Mark Buffalo to win the award. He plays a Soviet spy in Steven Spielberg's cold war thriller "Bridge of Spies." Rylance's theatre performances have brought him three Tony awards. Vikander, a 27-year-old Swedish actress and dancer, won the best supporting actress for her role in Tom Hooper's transgender drama "The Danish Girl." The film focuses on the first ever recipient of gender reassignment surgery and the effect this has on his marriage. Vikander thanked her parents while receiving her Oscar statuette, saying "thank you for giving me the belief anything can happen." She beat Kate Winslet, Jennifer Leigh, Rooney Mara and Rachel McAdams for the award. Vikander has also won the Screen Actors Guild award for her role. Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation. - The suspects had the sects tattoo on their arms and backs - Alleged Boko Haram members have been handed over to the military for further interrogation Four suspected Boko Haram members whose identities match those on the list of 100 most wanted terrorists released by the military over the weekend have been apprehended by the Civilian Joint Task Force (CJTF) at the Maiduguri motor park. THe Nigerian Army on Saturday, February 27, launched the poster of the second batch of the Boko Haram most wanted terrorists. According to Guardian, a member of CJTF, Modu Bukar said the suspected sect members were apprehended by the vigilant youths at about 7.35am while attempting to flee Maiduguri by bus. READ ALSO: Anti-terror war: Nigerian Army lacks adequate weapons Reps These men who claimed to be travelling to the south are Boko Haram suspects, because their identities matched those on the list released by the military on Saturday, including the sects tattoo on their arms and backs, Bukar said. He said the suspects look unkempt with signs of starvation and have been handed over to the military for further interrogation. In a similar development soldiers of the 33 Artillery brigade of the Nigerian army in Bauchi on Monday, February 29, paraded four suspected Boko Haram members among who is a suspect, Victor Moses, wanted for carrying out surveillance at the St.Theresas Catholic Church, Madalla, Niger state before it was bombed in 2012 on Christmas day, according to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN). The other three suspects arrested in the company of Victor are, Abubakar Shetima Bama, Salisu Mohammed Bello and Umar Madaki. According to This Day, the Brigade Commander of 33 Artillery Brigade, Bauchi, Brigadier General Abraham Luka Dusu said the suspects were arrested following information from the public. He said: Our troops on duty in Alkaleri arrested Victor Moses after receiving report from the people in the area that the suspect, Victor Moses has been loitering around the mosque claiming that he is a Christian and want to convert to Islam but because he is not from the area, they suspected him and reported to our men. Victor Moses confessed that he is conducting surveillance for Boko Haram,and that sometimes he stays in the shop of Abubakar Shetima Bama who is based in Jos while the other two accomplice, Salisu Mohammed Bello and Umar Madaki are based in Gombe. General Dusu said the suspects will be handed over to the Joint Intelligence Centre in Maiduguri for further interrogation. The Nigerian Army on Saturday, February 27, launched the poster of the second batch of 100 Boko Haram most wanted terrorists. According to information made available to Legit.ng, the new set of terrorists list was made public by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lieutenant General Tukur Buratai during the occasion to induct the combat motorbike battalion at the headquarters of 25 Task Force Brigade, Damboa, Borno state. READ ALSO: Nigerian army claimed more success against Boko Haram Buratai urged the public to look at the posters carefully, identify and report any person they can recognise. The Nigerian Army also announced on Saturday that it had re-opened all major highways linking Maiduguri, Borno, with other parts of the country after being closed for about three years due to attacks by the extremist group, Boko Haram. The Chief of Army, Tukur Buratai, announced this at the launch of Army Combat Motor Bikes in Damboa, headquarters of Damboa local government area of the state. Source: Legit.ng A residents shows China's RMB and US dollar banknotes in Qionghai, south China's Hainan Province, Jan. 7, 2016. [Xinhua] There has never been a plan to reach a deal similar to the Plaza Accord among G20 member countries and such a plan is unrealistic, said Yi Gang, vice governor of China's central bank. The Plaza Accord, signed in 1985, was an agreement among five nations to depreciate the U.S. dollar relative to the Japanese yen and the German Deutsche Mark by intervening in the currency markets. "The members haven't reached a consensus on the trend of the exchange rates and the current international currency system is very different from that when the Plaza Accord was signed," Yi said during an interview with Xinhua on Sunday, after the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting in Shanghai. Yi said the wording used in the meeting's communique, such as "we will consult closely on exchange markets," is unprecedented, highlighting the attentions paid by the members to recent exchange rates volatility. "By consulting closely, we can coordinate with each other more flexibly and that will play a positive role in eliminating excessive fluctuations and disorderly adjustment of the foreign exchange markets," Yi said. The meeting sent a clear signal that the group will "refrain from competitive devaluations," which is helpful to alleviate concerns over a "currency war," Yi said. The exchange rate mechanism was among the focus of the two-day meeting, which concluded on Saturday. For China, the currency yuan has been heading south since the government revamped the foreign exchange mechanism last year, and concerns about capital outflows have been on the rise. Yi recognized some volatility on the yuan exchange rate, but said markets should not overreact, as the yuan's fluctuation range is still smaller than many other currencies. The yuan exchange rate was also affected by some short-term speculations. But Yi said he is confident in the currency's fundamentals, which will drive the exchange rate in the long term rather than short-term expectations. Speaking on concerns over capital outflow, Yi said the recent drop in China's foreign exchange (FX) reserves was mainly due to a rise of FX assets in residential accounts and a reduction of FX liabilities, which are not likely to last for long. Financial policymakers from the world's 20 major economies on Saturday pledged to use all policy tools, including monetary, fiscal and structural ones, to strengthen global recovery amid growing concerns of further downward risks. You are here: Home Authorities in Macao have launched a criminal investigation amid suggestions one of the former heads of the SAR's Public. A photo of He Chaoming, Macao's former prosecutor [Photo: Xinhua] Prosecution Office may have been involved in wide-spread graft. It's being reported the former lead prosecutor in Macao is accused of siphoning close to 21-million dollars during his time in office from 2004 to 2014. Anti-graft investigators in Macao say the former official, along with a number of corporate managers, are being looked at for "fraud," "unlawful economic advantage," "power abuse" and "document forgery." Details surrounding the allegations have not been made clear at this point. The area of land that suffers from soil erosion in the Yangtze River valley has been reduced by 146,000 square kilometers, a drop of 27 percent since 2000, according to the Ministry of Water Resources. Protective measures have been applied to 70,000 square km of land along China's longest river since 2011, when the Law on Water and Soil Conservation took effect,the ministry said. Local governments have allotted millions of yuan to the cause. Chongqing Municipality has planted trees on slopes, constructed terraced fields to retain water, installed irrigation facilities, and funded fruit and vegetable cultivation to stabilize the soil. Wang Zewen, a farmer in Chongqing's Zhongxian County, started to plant nectarines in 2012. "The government has spent big money on irrigation facilities for my village. It has had a great effect in improving the environment," he said. The county's moves have reduced the amount of mud and sand slipping into the Yangtze by seven million cubic meters every year. The Ministry of Water Resources plans to plant trees or use other protective measures on a further 85,000 square km of land along the river by 2020. Almost twenty million square metres of modern industrial leasehold are currently available in Central Europe. So strong is the interest on behalf of occupiers that the share of available space has dropped to a historical low of 5.7 per cent. To compare the share of available office spaces is [] Kungsleden has signed a 20 year lease agreement with Nobis to develop a new design hotel on Gavlegatan in the heart of Vasastan and Hagastaden in Stockholm. The hotel will with its 242 hotel rooms, conference facilities and restaurant, become a new destination for hotel guests, neighbours, residents and tourists. [] Javascript Error Javascript is deactivated in your browser. To use all functions on this portal, for example the login, Javascript must be activated. Please activate Javascript in your browser settings. Based on the Maruti Baleno on sale in India, a new variant has been launched called Baleno Cross The hatchbacks with rough road package and gimmicky suffixes to the nameplate didnt really work in India as the customers were willing to pay extra for proper crossover SUVs. There are still some hatchback-based instant crossovers in our market but they mostly spend their time on the sidelines. These species of spruced up hatchbacks may have better luck in some international markets. Suzuki thinks a slightly more rugged version of the Baleno hatchback would be well received in South American markets. The Suzuki Baleno Cross has been introduced in Colombia and from the looks of it, it doesnt even have what we call as the rough road package. The Baleno Cross receives a sportier and more expressive front bumper which is seen on the India-spec facelift, special dual-tone alloy wheels, side rub strips and roof carrier. There are no black lower body cladding, raised ground clearance or faux skid plates. It looks more like a dealer-level accessorized version than a new standalone variant in its own right. Interior is also identical to that of the regular Baleno save for updated colour theme for the fabric. The colour of the upholstery is matched with the exterior paint. There are no other changes whatsoever. Suzuki Baleno Cross Engine Suzuki Baleno Cross for the Colombian market is powered by the K14B 1.4-liter petrol engine which is tuned to produce 95 hp and 130 Nm of torque. The motor can be specified either with a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic gearbox. The Colombian Baleno Cross comes equipped with standard dual front airbags, ISOFIX mount and ABS with EBD. The higher end variant offers 6 airbags and LED DRLs. Maruti Suzuk India Ltd., is the sole manufacturer of the Baleno hatchback for the entire world. The Colombia-spec model is shipped from here and is converted into a cross of the local market by adding a few accessories. The Cross variant is not likely to be introduced in India. The Maruti Baleno for India received a facelift recently with subtle revisions. The hatchback competes with Hyundai i20, Tata Altroz, Honda Jazz and VW Polo. The Baleno has been dominating its segment since its inception and has clocked sales of over 7.2 lakh units. The hatchback is so popular in the India that one unit is sold every 3 minutes! Its primary rival, the i20, is set to receive a vastly improved replacement in the coming weeks. The battle between the titans is set to get fiercer. More than 60 percent of Rhode Island men who have sex with men (MSM) diagnosed with HIV in 2013 reported meeting sexual partners online in the preceding year, according to a study published in the journal Public Health Reports. Study authors at Brown University, The Miriam Hospital, and the Rhode Island Department of Health said companies that produce hookup websites and apps should partner with public health groups, to share public health messages about the risks of sexual encounters arranged online. For instance, sites and apps could provide affordable advertising access to help prevent infection in communities that are most impacted by HIV. In 2013, 74 Ocean State residents were newly diagnosed with HIV. Three in five were gay, bisexual, or other MSM, and of those 43 people, 22 told researchers they believe a man they met online gave them the virus, according to the study published online in the journal Public Health Reports. The research team interviewed 70 of the state's 74 newly diagnosed people for the study. "This is a statewide study that included nearly all individuals newly diagnosed with HIV across an entire state," said Amy Nunn, associate professor of Public Health and Medicine at Brown University and director of the Rhode Island Public Health Institute. "This is one of the first studies to document how common Internet site use is among people newly diagnosed with HIV and highlights important opportunities to partner with hookup sites to advance public health." Five sites and apps, some of which are also used by women, were the most popular: Grindr, Manhunt, Scruff, Adam4Adam and Craigslist. Study lead author Dr. Philip Chan, assistant professor of medicine in the Alpert Medical School and director of at the STD Clinic at The Miriam Hospital, said the widely used sites are part of the lifestyle and culture among many gay and bisexual men and can lead to lasting relationships, not just health risks. The goal of the research, therefore, is not to stigmatize sex or men who use the sites, he and Nunn said, but to instead to inspire partnerships with companies to include more information that could slow the spread of HIV. "Prevention messaging is a vital tool in our work to prevent new HIV transmissions in Rhode Island," said study co-author Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott, director of the Rhode Island Department of Health. "A study like this is an urgent call to action for greater collaboration around education to address the health needs of men who have sex with men. The rate of new HIV diagnoses among men who have sex with men represents an unacceptable health disparity that absolutely must be addressed." Seeking public health partnership advertisement "Across the U.S. we are seeing MSM as the number one risk group for HIV infection," Chan added. "On these online hookup sites, many young MSM are meeting sex partners. It's really an under recognized and under utilized approach we should be using to reach out to and engage this group." To date, public health officials have struggled to sustain informational campaigns on sites and apps that charge for advertising, either because they have no discounts for non-profits or don't discount enough, Chan said. Craigslist and Scruff ads are free, the authors said, but staff at small non-profit or government agencies face logistical challenges in messaging in these venues, such as having to continually repost ads. "One of the challenges this study highlights is that it's prohibitively expensive for many organizations who focus on public health promotion to buy ads on these apps and websites," Nunn said. "Reducing disease transmission should be part of these organizations' corporate social responsibility programs." The researchers document recent advertising costs in their study, which can quickly run into the thousands of dollars. "We would like to see more of these companies stepping up to the plate to work with public health departments," Chan said. advertisement The urgency has not abated since 2013, Chan said. In 2014, the study notes, HIV infections in Rhode Island grew by 97 new diagnoses, again mostly among MSM. Many of the individuals newly diagnosed in Rhode Island were diagnosed late in the course of their infection, the study showed. Nunn said this suggests that they may have been living HIV for a long time, and potentially unknowingly transmitting HIV to other people, including partners they met online. These findings highlight opportunities to disrupt HIV transmission, she said, by partnering with websites to deliver prevention messaging services that promote routine HIV testing, treatment, and uptake of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), a once a day pill that can dramatically reduce HIV acquisition risks for HIV negative individuals. Chan and Nunn gave sites such as Adam4Adam and Manhunt credit for recently beginning to provide a way for users to list their HIV status when they fill out a profile. Users, for example, can opt to declare they are positive or negative and, if so, whether they are taking PrEP. Similarly, Scruff allows users to document whether they are currently taking PrEP. The report can be found at: http://www.publichealthreports.org/issueopen.cfm?articleID=3500 A contingent of NASA airborne instruments and scientists on the ground, including some from NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California, has joined colleagues from space agencies in Gabon and Europe this month to study the dense African tropical forests in Gabon. Gabon, a Central African country slightly smaller than the state of Colorado with a population of about 1.5 million, is home to one of the most pristine rainforests on our planet. During the two-week-long NASA campaign, in collaboration with a European Space Agency (ESA) mission called AfriSAR, researchers are collecting measurements of plant mass, distribution of trees, shrubs and ground cover, and diversity of plant and animal species -- not only from Gabon's rainforest but also from the country's wetlands, mangrove forests and savanna. ESA launched the first part of the AfriSAR field campaign in Gabon in July 2015, when teams led by the French national aerospace research center collected radar and field measurements of the country's forests. Now NASA and the German space agency have joined the second leg of the campaign. The data will help prepare for and calibrate four current and upcoming spaceborne missions for NASA, ESA and the German space agency that aim to better gauge the role of forests in Earth's carbon cycle. "One of the questions we're really interested in at NASA is balancing the global carbon budget," said Lola Fatoyinbo, a research scientist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, and lead of NASA's contribution to the AfriSAR campaign. "We know how much carbon dioxide is being emitted into the atmosphere by fossil fuel emissions, but we don't have a good estimate of how much carbon is being taken up from the atmosphere and where it's stored -- we think that forests absorb about a quarter of all these emissions, but we need better studies of forest biomass to confirm this. "With AfriSAR, we're getting very accurate measurements of the 3D structure of an ecosystem that is representative of the larger Congo Basin rainforest and of tropical forests in general, and this is going to allow us to get a better grip on how much carbon is stored in these ecosystems," Fatoyinbo said. Gabon's forest is part of the Congolian tropical forests, altogether the second largest rainforest in the world after the Amazon. About 85 percent of the country's land is forest. advertisement "The forests in Gabon are special: They are rich in plants and animals, but empty of people and intact in most places," said Sassan Saatchi, a JPL senior scientist. He is part of the NASA AfriSAR team that operates the JPL-developed Uninhabited Aerial Vehicle Synthetic Aperture Radar (UAVSAR). The other NASA group participating in AfriSAR, led by Goddard scientist Bryan Blair, is in charge of the Land, Vegetation, and Ice Sensor (LVIS) instrument. During the AfriSAR campaign, UAVSAR flies 40,000 feet high mounted beneath a C-20A aircraft from NASA's Armstrong Flight Research Center in Edwards, California. LVIS flies at 28,000 feet onboard a B-200 airplane from NASA's Langley Research Center in Hampton, Virginia. Both instruments collect measurements of surface topography and vegetation structure by sending out rapid pulses of either radio waves (UAVSAR) or laser light (LVIS) toward their targets. They then calculate the distance to objects below by measuring how long it takes for the signal to bounce back, creating 3D maps of the surface beneath. "LVIS studies the vertical structure of the forests by measuring the elevation of everything the photons hit: the top of the canopy, all of the leaves and branches and finally the ground," said Blair, principal investigator and developer of LVIS. "In tropical forests, the challenge is to get the laser pulse all the way to the ground because the whole canopy is closed; there's very few holes for the photons to get through." The data collected by LVIS will help calibrate and validate the information gathered by UAVSAR over the same targets, and vice-versa. The two datasets will also be compared to the airborne radar measurements that ESA and the German space agency are compiling during their current campaigns in Gabon. Finally, AfriSAR's ground teams from Goddard and JPL are performing several types of field measurements, such as tree width, forest structure and soil moisture, which will complement and refine the data gathered from the air. Both NASA airborne instruments are test beds for future space missions. LVIS is the precursor to the Global Ecosystem Dynamics Investigation lidar (GEDI), a powerful laser altimeter that will be installed on the International Space Station in the near future to measure forests in 3D. UAVSAR will help develop the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar, or NISAR, a joint U.S. and Indian radar-based satellite mission managed by JPL that is scheduled to launch in 2020. In turn, the European space agencies' radar measurements in Gabon are aimed to prepare for ESA's BIOMASS satellite mission, which will deploy in 2020. The German space agency will also compare the data to the measurements collected by its TanDEM-X satellite constellation, launched in 2010. advertisement Furthermore, the forest data gathered in Gabon might help to inform policymakers working on climate mitigation and forest conservation policies, Saatchi said. AfriSAR is NASA's first collaboration with Gabon's young space agency, AGEOS, and also its first large international campaign in Africa since NASA participated in a hydrological study of the Sahel in the early 1990s. For more on UAVSAR, visit: http://uavsar.jpl.nasa.gov/ For more on NISAR, visit: http://nisar.jpl.nasa.gov Monitoring the quality of freshwater supplies is a global concern, especially in thirsty California, where the San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary and its watershed serve as a major freshwater source. Now scientists at NASA's Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Pasadena, California, and the U.S. Geological Survey, Menlo Park and Sacramento, California, have successfully demonstrated how a NASA-developed airborne environmental monitoring instrument can be applied to help water managers monitor water quality not only in San Francisco Bay, but potentially in other inland and coastal water bodies around the world. In a study published in the current issue of the journal Environmental Science & Technology, researchers combined water sample measurements collected by USGS scientists aboard a high-speed boat in northeastern San Francisco Bay with data collected by JPL scientists at the same time onboard a specially instrumented Twin Otter aircraft flying overhead. The plane carried the JPL-developed Portable Remote Imaging Spectrometer (PRISM), which measures the amount and wavelength of visible light and near-infrared radiation reflected toward the instrument from the water below. The PRISM data allow researchers to detect the unique spectral signatures of several water constituents typically used as indicators of water quality. When the two data sets were later analyzed and compared in laboratories, the PRISM data closely matched the water quality information collected from the boat. The benefit of PRISM is that it can greatly expand the spatial coverage of traditional boat- and fixed-monitoring, station-based approaches used for water quality monitoring. For example, a single PRISM airborne flight can assess the water quality of much of the San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary; similar coverage using a boat would take weeks. For this study, the researchers analyzed turbidity (how cloudy the water is), chlorophyll-a (an indicator of phytoplankton in the water), dissolved organic carbon (a source of undesired disinfection by-products produced during the treatment of drinking water), and sediments suspended in the water. Dissolved organic carbon is also a useful indicator of the amount of dissolved methylmercury, a potent neurotoxin that tends to accumulate in fish and other wildlife in the San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary. The experiment demonstrated how a single image from PRISM can instantaneously provide a detailed snapshot of these important water quality indicators over a large and diverse water body. New imaging spectrometers like PRISM can enable accurate detection of water quality indicators that were previously difficult to measure using existing satellite sensors. Scientists hope to apply the PRISM technology to sensors on future Earth-orbiting satellites that can provide continuous global monitoring. "This study successfully demonstrated the potential of remote sensing to monitor water quality indicators and their variability in the San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary -- one of California's most important water resources -- where wetland restoration, human activities and climate change can impact water quality and ecosystem productivity," said study lead author Cedric G. Fichot, a JPL postdoctoral researcher. "Remote sensing holds great promise for efficiently collecting water quality information over large areas, at high spatial resolution and with good accuracy." Fichot led the study through a collaboration between NASA, USGS and the Delta Science Fellows Program. advertisement The ecosystems of the San Francisco Bay-Delta Estuary and its watershed have been profoundly altered by humans over the past 150 years. Water quality monitoring is critical to managing this important water resource and assessing its ecosystem health. USGS has been consistently monitoring water quality in San Francisco Bay for almost 50 years. But vessel-based water quality monitoring programs are time-consuming and labor intensive. The researchers say the successful, accurate detection of water quality indicators by an airborne sensor is important because some of them are particularly difficult to measure in the laboratory due to sampling precision and/or technical costs. "While turbidity has been mapped remotely for years with satellites, this time we were able to estimate the individual components of turbidity: suspended sediments, dissolved organic carbon and chlorophyll-a," said USGS ecologist and co-author Lisamarie Windham-Myers. "One of the most exciting things about this study was that it demonstrated our ability to take a mile-high view of methylmercury concentrations across a complex mosaic of wetlands and open water," said USGS microbiologist and co-author Mark Marvin-DiPasquale. "This represents the first imaging for this toxic substance at this resolution and spatial scale." "Considering the difficulty and elevated costs of measuring methylmercury using samples, this new remote sensing technique represents a major leap forward in our ability to detect hot spots of this contaminant in wetlands," added Fichot. advertisement The concurrent boat/aircraft measurement approach was also able to successfully capture the rapid changes taking place within the estuary, where tides cause water quality to change over timescales of minutes and spatial scales of feet, said USGS study co-author and biogeochemist Brian Bergamaschi. "This approach of using a high-speed boat to map conditions in the water across a broad area as the sensor is flown overhead worked well as a way to relate the laboratory measurements directly to airborne sensor data," he said. Bergamaschi added the team is now using the technique to calibrate satellite observations to help broaden the view. NASA uses the vantage point of space to increase our understanding of our home planet, improve lives and safeguard our future. NASA develops new ways to observe and study Earth's interconnected natural systems with long-term data records. The agency freely shares this unique knowledge and works with institutions around the world to gain new insights into how our planet is changing. For more information on PRISM, visit: http://prism.jpl.nasa.gov/ For more information about NASA's Earth science activities, visit: http://www.nasa.gov/earth USGS provides science for a changing world. For more information, visit: http://www.usgs.gov Lessons from Past Climate Predictions: Syun-Ichi Akasofu Posted on 7 July 2011 by dana1981 In 2009, Syun-Ichi Akasofu (geophysicist and director of the International Arctic Research Center at the University of Alaska-Fairbanks) released a paper which argued that the recent global warming is due to two factors: natural recovery from the Little Ice Age (LIA), and "the multi-decadal oscillation". The paper was trimmed down and published in 2010 by a new journal called Natural Science, which is published by Scientific Research Publishing, which has been called "what may be the worlds strangest collection of academic journals." Most of the following discussion focuses on the unpublished version of the paper. Akasofu argues that the current warming trend of approximately 0.5C per century actually began in the early 1800s, and that: "This trend (0.5C/100 years) should be subtracted from the temperature data during the last 100 years when estimating the manmade contribution to the present global warming trend. As a result, there is a possibility that only a small fraction of the present warming trend is attributable to the greenhouse effect resulting from human activities." He also argues that the "multi-decadal oscillation" can explain some of the warming over the past 35 years: "This particular natural change had a positive rate of change of about 0.15C/10 years from about 1975 (positive from 1910 to 1940, negative from 1940 to 1975), and is thought by the IPCC to be a sure sign of the greenhouse effect of CO2. However, the positive trend from 1975 has stopped after 2000. One possibility of the halting is that after reaching a peak in 2000, the multi-decadal oscillation has begun to overwhelm the linear increase, causing the IPCC prediction to fail as early as the first decade of the 21st century." Akasofu presents his argument graphically (Figure 1). Basically he argues that there is a linear warming trend caused by "recovery from the LIA", with natural oscillations superimposed upon it. Figure 1: Akasofu's interpretation of the global warming trend and causes since 1880 In order for this to be a physically sound argument, Akasofu must explain the physical mechanism behind the "LIA recovery", and why this 0.5C global warming trend continues to persist. What is the underlying cause? Surely a geophysicist will examine this question. Akasofu's Physical and Logical Failure Unfortunately, nowhere in the 55 pages of his unpublished paper does Akasofu examine the physical cause of his purported 0.5C per century warming trend since 1825. Most of the paper is spent looking at various regional temperature proxies, as well as ice data, to show that the purported warming trend exists. "Obviously, the LIA was caused by a natural change or changes. Further, the fact that an almost linear change of the temperature rise had been progressing until 2000 suggests that the linear change is a natural change, because the rapid increase of CO2 began only after 1946 (Figure 2c). The linear change began from 1800~1850, at least one hundred years before the rapid increase of CO2 in the atmosphere." In the published version, Akasofu devotes a section to a discussion about galactic cosmic rays, but does not attempt to quantify their effect. In fact he begins the section by stating: "It is not the purpose of this section to discuss any major causes of climate change." Well that's a relief, I was afraid he was going to sneak some science in there! Instead, Akasofu appears to assume that the planet will naturally revert back to its previous state after a significant climate change as in the LIA. However, Rea et al. (2010) found that the climate does not behave in this manner: "we present a new way of looking at long memory in these reconstructions and proxies, which gives support to them being described by the non-stationary models. The implications for climatic change are that the temperature time series are not mean reverting. There is no evidence to support the idea that the observed rise in global temperatures are a natural fluctuation which will reverse in the near future." Not only does Akasofu fail to examine the physical causes of the warming since 1825, but he also fails to consider the possibility that a number of different factors are at play. For example, increased solar activity and low volcanic activity (and even human greenhouse gas emissions) contributed to the early 20th Century warming, but solar and volcanic activity have not contributed significantly to the warming since the mid-20th Century. It is a logical failure to assume that a warming over nearly two centuries must have the same physical cause throughout the 200 years, and this argument is contradicted by the observational data (i.e. increasing solar activity in the early 1900s, but no increase since mid-century). Unsupported Linear Warming Assumption A further failure of Akasofu's analysis is that while the linear warming trend over the past two centuries is approximately 0.5C per century, nearly all of that warming has occurred over the past 100 years, as Akasofu's own Figure 7a shows (Figure 2). Figure 2: Various temperature reconstructions in Akasofu Figure 7a, showing that most of the temperature increase over the past 200 years has occurred since 1900. Akasofu also fails to justify his assumption of a linear warming trend over the past two centuries. A slight warming in the 1800s, followed by faster warming in the early 1900s, followed by even faster warming over the past few decades - sounds rather like an exponential trend, doesn't it? If you're going to fit a certain trend to the data, you first need a physical justification - what's the cause? Akasofu does not have this justification, and without a physical reason the choice of trend is essentially arbitrary. Indeed, in a previous post, Riccardo fitted various trends to the global temperature data (Figure 3), and found that whether the residuals form a clear cycle depends on the choice of trend. In fact, the residual is more cyclical for an n=2 exponentlal fit than a linear fit (Figure 4). Therefore, Akasofu's argument for fitting the data with a trend plus multi-decadal oscillations makes more sense for an exponential trend. Figure 3: HadCRUT3 monthly data (grey) and the fits for n=1 (red), 2 (green) and 4 (blue). Figure 4: Residuals calculated with the Figure 3 trend curves shown with n=1 (red), 2 (green) and 4 (blue). Thus we find that Akasofu's entire premise is faulty on many different levels: physical, logical, and statistical. Natural Variability Akasofu does finally address the issue of physical causality later in his paper, when he states that the multi-decadal oscillations such as the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) can explain the acceleration in global warming from approximately 1977 to 2000. While it's true that a positive PDO can explain some of the warming of surface temperatures, PDO and natural variability cannot explain either the ocean warming at the same time, or the long-term warming trend, whose cause Akasofu has still failed to address. Akasofu's Prediction Considering that Akasofu's paper almost entirely neglects physics and fails to address the causes of the observed warming trends, one might expect very little accuracy in his predictions of future temperature changes. However, although he does not explain its cause, Akasofu does assume that the 0.5C per century warming trend discussed in his paper will continue into the future. So if the anthropogenic + natural warming trend is limited to 0.05C per decade, Akasofu will have stumbled onto a correct prediction (Figure 5). Figure 5: Akasofu vs. IPCC global temperature predictions In order to evaluate the accuracy of Akasofu's prediction so far, we digitized Figure 5 and compared it to the Wood for Trees Index, which is a composite of the global temperature datasets compiled by NASA GISS, HadCRU, UAH, and RSS (Figure 6). Figure 6: Akasofu's prediction from 2000 to 2015 (blue) vs. the Wood for Trees Index five year running average (red). Akasofu's Results As you can see, Akasofu predicted a very slight cooling (approximately 0.02C) between 2000 and 2011, whereas the Wood for Trees Index has warmed approximately 0.1C over that period. So his prediction has not been terribly inaccurate yet - there hasn't really been sufficient time to evaluate its accuracy. However, given the expected atmospheric CO2 increase over the next century, in order for Akasofu's predicted 0.05C per decade warming trend to hold true, climate sensitivity would have to be in the range of 0.5 to 1.5C for doubled CO2, depending on how rapidly CO2 continues to increase. Coincidentally, this is approximately the same low climate sensitivty range that his fellow "skeptics" like Spencer, Lindzen, and Christy argue is accurate. However, it's also important to note that as in Don Easterbrook's temperature predictions, Akasofu has completely ignored the warming effects of increasing atmospheric CO2 in his predictions, assuming that whatever caused the pre-industrial warming is also causing the current warming. Thus Akasofu is really arguing that the climate sensitivity to CO2 is effectively zero, and that the observed and projected warming is due to some other 'natural' effect which he has not identified, but describes as "LIA recovery". This is not a physical argument; Akasofu implies that extra heating from CO2 (which we've directly measured with satellites) isn't causing any warming - the heat somehow magically disappears. So even if his fellow "skeptics" are somehow correct about low climate sensitivity and Akasofu's prediction turns out to be accurate, it will simply be due to sheer luck. Any temperature prediction like Easterbrook's and Akasofu's which totally ignores the warming effects of CO2 is fundamentally physically incorrect. Akasofu assumed a linear trend of unknown cause, an unknown periodic variability, and assumed that these two unknown phenomena will continue in the future, while disregarding what we know about the physics of the climate system. Unfortunately there's no knowledge to be gained from Akasofu's paper, except how not to predict future climate change. NOTE: As you can see at the top right corner of this post, John Cook has created a snazzy new button for the Lessons from Past Climate Predictions series. We have also added some older posts which analyzed climate predictions, which you can see if you click on the button. 0 0 Printable Version | Link to this page Foreign Minister Murray McCully will visit Fiji today to discuss the response to Tropical Cyclone Winston with the Fiji Government and look at how New Zealand can support recovery efforts. The damage to property, and loss of life caused by Cyclone Winston in parts of Fiji is almost unprecedented in the Pacific, Mr McCully says. Our total contribution to the relief effort now stands at $3.2 million and NZDF assets and personnel are helping to deliver supplies and repair damage to critical infrastructure. While in Fiji I will meet with New Zealand response staff and hold meetings with the Fiji Government to gain an understanding of what the longerterm needs in Fiji might be, Mr McCully says. Source: Office of Murray McCully. Lou Jiwei (Center), the finance minister of China, addresses a press conference at the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting held in Shanghai on Saturday. [Photo by Gao Erqiang/China Daily] The gloomy prospect of the world's economy was the principal item on the agenda at the G20 Finance Ministers' meeting in Shanghai last week. Every country in the world appears to be in search of that elusive secret of growth. It is therefore not inappropriate that the ministers should gather in the country which seems to have come nearest to discovering the magic formula, namely, China. Chinese growth has come under downward pressure in the last few years, but the headline figures are still enviable from the rest of the world's point of view. So, is it realistic to expect leadership from China in the pursuit of global growth? Differences have come to light between China's approaches compared to those of some Western countries, not due to a real difference of aims or objectives, but due to the fact that the economic and business cycles between China and the West are not quite synchronised. It has taken some time for China to move towards integration with the global financial system, and this is very understandable. China's financial defence mechanisms helped to ensure that she was not too severely affected by the global turmoil of 1998 and 2008. It is therefore natural that China should manoeuvre very carefully in the direction of alignment with the other major economic players, and thus there are still differences of circumstances which carry weight against cooperation with countries whose immediate situation and requirements may be very different. For instance, it soon became clear that any agreement regarding a coordinated stimulus package was not going to transpire. Despite a recommendation included in a report issued by the IMF on February 24, suggesting that the G20 should now start preparing for such a stimulus programme, German Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble declared that his country firmly opposed such a step, "We, therefore, do not agree on a G20 fiscal stimulus package as some argue, in case unintended future consequences materialize". China's line on the more difficult economic times we are living in is centred on the country's current domestic priority of structural reform as the best guarantee of sustained economic growth, which could and should be adapted by all G20 countries, Finance Minister Lou Jiwei told the Ministers and central bank governors in attendance. This would involve proactive government efforts in removing trade barriers and more investment encouragement. China is raising the ratio of the fiscal deficit to GDP and aims to reduce the tax burden on small and innovative enterprises. Employment legislation needs to be improved to liberalise the labour market. Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation. Amanzi started out his life as a lonely, stranded orphan - but these days he has an entirely new family to support him, including one very special lamb. On February 16, Elephants Alive, an organization based in Limpopo, South Africa, received a troubling phone call. Electrical services workers had discovered a baby elephant trapped in a mine's holding dam, according to a blog post recounting the rescue. The calf was found with scuff marks all over his body, reportedly from fellow elephants trying to help him out. Eventually, Amanzi was successfully pulled out of the holding dam by rescuers from Elephants Alive. He had likely been left by his own family. However, attempts to reintroduce him into nearby elephant breeding herds failed - one herd's matriarch even went so far as to push the orphaned calf off his feet. Weak, underweight and dehydrated, Amanzi needed swift action to save his life, so the Elephants Alive team rushed him to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre (HESC), where he could begin to heal. Dodo Shows Adopt Me! Scared Little Dog Is So Full Of Joy Now And Looking For A Family Now, a young elephant who faced distress and rejection ... ... is experiencing love and well-wishes for a speedy recovery. Despite Amanzi's steady improvement since being brought into human care, he's still not out of the woods entirely. The baby elephant continues to struggle with dehydration. A Facebook update on Sunday said Amanzi is now on a drip to help with rehydration. Just a couple of days ago, however, a heartwarming clip of Amanzi sticking close to one lamb named Lammie was shared by HESC. Amanzi is inseparable from his newfound surrogate mother and follows her everywhere she goes. Facebook/HESC This browser does not support the video tag. Facebook/HESC Apparently, this isn't the first time Lammie has taken in a different species as one of her own - she's been known to guide rhinos, so it's no surprise she gets along with Amanzi so well. A motherly figure is exactly what a baby like Amanzi needs, for company and comfort. Watch the sweet clip of Lammie and Amanzi bonding below. This week, Iceland's biggest whaling company announced it was calling off this year's hunt, sparing the lives of around 150 fin whales. Many have praised the decision as a major victory for the endangered marine mammals, but at least one animal advocate thinks it's still too soon to celebrate. "In the short term, this is great news," said Clare Perry, a senior campaigner with the Environmental Investigation Agency (EIA), in a statement. "But it's not necessarily the end of the hunt." On Thursday, Hvalur CEO Kristjan Loftsson told reporters his company would hunt no whales this year, citing "outdated" food regulations in Japan, the world's primary market for whale meat. According to Perry, that rationale might hint at a darker motive at play. "EIA would not be surprised if this was just a cynical attempt to force Japan to lower its food safety standards," said Perry. "The hunt was also postponed in 2011 but resumed in 2013 with ever increasing volumes of whale meat being exported to Japan." Indeed, Loftsson recently pledged to resume whaling if circumstances changed, telling TakePart that if Japanese officials "change their attitude, we'll start again. But if they don't, we will not do anything." If Japan does lower its safety standards, the brutal business that's brought $60 million to Loftsson's company since 2010 could become even more lucrative - making the world even more dangerous for fin whales. Of course, the same market forces that have kept whaling alive in the 21st century could be used to end it once and for all. To learn more about how to financially punish countries that kill whales, visit the Animal Welfare Institute's website here. No one knows yet what happened to Kerry Morgan, a New Zealand man who disappeared late last week - no one, except for his faithful dog, Ataahua. That's where they found Ataahua, too, waiting for her owner who was nowhere in sight. Morgan was last seen on Friday afternoon while walking with Ataahua along the banks of the Waikato River, near his home in the city of Hamilton. His hat and shoes were later found set by the shore , near a spot where he was known to occasionally stop to cool off in the shallows. Fearing that Morgan may have drowned, authorities conducted a search of the river, but they failed to find any sign of him. Meanwhile, Morgan's daughter, Lorraine Cook, took Ataahua for safekeeping. But the loyal pup isn't ready to give up her vigil. At the first opportunity, Ataahua escaped and returned to the spot where she'd last seen the man who'd raised her from a puppy. "When we were told my dad had gone missing, my brother and sister were here at the house, waiting for news from police, before we all turned up," Cook told the New Zealand Herald. "They let Ataahua out of the house to go toilet. About 11 p.m. that night, they had to go looking for her. One of the cops and my brother found her down by the river again in the same place, just sitting there." "It was like she was waiting for him to come back," she added. As the days have passed since Morgan was last seen, Cook says their hopes of finding hime alive have sadly dwindled. Ataahua's, it seems, have not: "She keeps trying to run down there. It's sad to watch her. She looks sad." Police are still seeking clues as to Morgan's whereabouts. But amid the mystery of his disappearance, another fact has been proven beyond all doubt: A dog's love and loyalty know no measure. Lumber Liquidators, the largest U.S. hardwood-flooring specialty retailer, reported another rough quarter of financial results Monday as it seeks to recover from claims it sold Chinese-made laminates containing possibly dangerous levels of formaldehyde. The report comes after the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said recently it had revised its earlier analysis of the suspect flooring and found a heightened risk of cancer. The CDC said its models suggested the formaldehyde could cause respiratory issues for people with asthma and could cause anyone eye, nose and throat irritation. A 60 Minutes investigation a year ago took aim at the makeup of the flooring and spurred regulators to dig deeper. Lumber Liquidators suspended its sale of Chinese-made laminates after the investigation aired, and the chief executive at the time, Robert M. Lynch, stepped down in May. Still, the controversy sent the companys stock plummeting and spawned a host of consumer lawsuits. It also appears to be hurting sales. Sales at stores open at least a year dropped 17.2 percent for the three-month period that ended Dec. 31, the company reported Monday. Revenue came in $20 million short of analysts projections, with net sales totaling $234.8 million. Lumber Liquidators executives told analysts Monday that the company is reviewing its sourcing practices to comply with orders from the Justice Department. It also told investors it would leave its remaining inventory of Chinese laminate wood, which before the 60 Minutes report made up about 20 percent of sales, in storage and would not return the product to shelves. Chief executive John M. Presley warned that sales of the laminate would unnecessarily pressure our reputation and create ongoing distractions for our customers. Over the past quarter we have taken meaningful steps to reestablish Lumber Liquidators with our customers and our shareholders, Presley said in a statement accompanying the companys earnings release. While we have made some progress in key areas such as compliance and core operational efficiency, we still have a long way to go. That said, our business model is intact, we are addressing legacy issues with clarity and candor, and we are rebuilding our brand. Presley was brought on in November to help right the ship, but he is now facing health problems. On Feb. 16, he told employees that he had been diagnosed with a very treatable form of leukemia and that he planned to stay active in the day-to-day management of the company. The company announced Monday that Dennis R. Knowles, a former Lowes executive, has been appointed chief operating officer. The company did not respond to requests for comment. Concerns over Chinese-made laminates are just one of the sourcing issues to surface at Lumber Liquidators, a Toano,Va.-based discounter that has grown to more than 370 locations in North America since its founding in 1993. In 2013, an environmental nonprofit group alleged the company illegally smuggled wood from Russian woodlands that are home to endangered tigers. A federal judge fined the company $13 million last October. The CDC released a report Feb. 10 that linked the Chinese-made laminate to formaldehyde and warned that exposure could lead to a low risk of cancer, affecting possibly two to nine people out of 100,000. It later revised that finding, saying it underestimated the potential danger. Between 6 and 30 people per 100,000 are estimated to be at risk of cancer, though the agency said that the new analysis errs on the side of caution and that the actual risk is probably lower. Since the controversy erupted, Lumber Liquidators stock has tumbled. The stock is down nearly 80 percent since this time last year. It dipped nearly 20 percent last Tuesday after news that the CDC issued its revised report. It was down 7 percent in midday trading Monday, before recovering to end 2 percent higher on the day We are not recommending investors buy the stock right now, said KeyBanc analyst Brad Thomas, but we are hopeful the company will survive through the regulatory and legal matters that are unresolved. The company should benefit from a recovery in the housing market if it can put its sourcing questions behind it. Historically, Lumber Liquidators had not-too-shabby operating margins between 6 and 8 percent, Thomas said. They peaked at 12.3 percent in 2013 before supply-line issues surfaced. Many shoppers warmed to the companys niche between big-box stores and the discounters, doing for flooring what Sherwin Williams or Benjamin Moore did for paint. I think there is a real company underneath there, but it might take a couple of years before it seems like that before the investment community sees that, Thomas said. An earlier version of this story incorrectly said the company is based in Richmond. It is headquartered in Toano, Va. The story has been updated. BEACON 23 , by Hugh Howey (John Joseph Adams). A wisecracking, slightly obsessive-compulsive ex-soldier operates a space station that helps illuminate the Milky Way so ships can safely maneuver through it. This is a perfect blend of a fast-paced action coupled with a psychologically insightful portrait of loneliness, of the little idiosyncrasies we develop when living on our own, and how we crave companionship. Reviewed by Nancy Hightower BLUE LAWS : Selected & Uncollected Poems, by Kevin Young (Knopf). Encompassing 20 years of his work, this collection draws from and deepens the African American poetic tradition. Young brilliantly conveys the struggles and triumphs of those oppressed by slavery, economic hardship after emancipation, Jim Crow laws and prejudice that still tinge life today. Reviewed by Elizabeth Lund THE DEFENDER : How the Legendary Black Newspaper Changed America, by Ethan Michaeli (HMH). What makes the book so significant is that Michaeli not only details the history of the Chicago Defender but also demonstrates its role in shaping the local and national political landscapes. Reviewed by Kim Gallon FIXERS , by Michael M. Thomas (Melville). This isnt just an audacious financial thriller, its also, even primarily, a meditation on values. It reveals the purported financial shenanigans that made possible the 2008 election of our current president and the real reasons the federal government bailed out the banks and investment groups that caused the global financial crisis of that same year. Reviewed by Michael Dirda A FRIEND OF MR. LINCOLN , by Stephen Harrigan (Knopf). Harrigan offers us an acute and original portrait of Lincoln in the 1830s and 1840s, when our 16th president was still a young backwoods lawyer whose hair was like a clump of crow feathers. Reviewed by Jerome Charyn GINNY GALL , by Charlie Smith (Harper). This powerful story covers a great swatch of the Jim Crow South and conjures up the largely separate, ferociously repressed world of African Americans in the early 20th century. The protagonist is Delvin, born in 1913, to a good-time gal in Chattanooga, Tenn. Hes a bright boy, a wonderanemous child, quick to read and eager to make up stories, but his primary occupation is staying alive in a society that insists black men even boys remain dumb, shiftless and unthreatening. Reviewed by Ron Charles THE HIGHEST GLASS CEILING : Womens Quest for the American Presidency, by Ellen Fitzpatrick (Harvard). Fitzpatrick is a worthy biographer, offering a rich, amply footnoted story of quick-witted and resilient women who preceded Clintons quest. In a world where women were expected to demur, they lived large and paid the price. One finishes the book believing that they wouldnt have had it any other way. Reviewed by Connie Schultz THE IMPORTANCE OF BEING LITTLE : What Preschoolers Really Need from Grownups, by Erika Christakis (Viking). If not quite a defense of Carpet Fluff 101, this is a fervent rebuke of academic-style early education testing, flashcards and so on. Instead, Christakis favors a more nuanced approach, centered on the child and based on play. She makes a powerful and persuasive case, even if its hard to see how such a system would work on a large scale. Reviewed by Nora Krug IN OTHER WORDS , by Jhumpa Lahiri; translated from the Italian by Ann Goldstein (Knopf). Strikingly honest, lyrical, untouched by sentimentality, In Other Words chronicles as philosophical and quotidian a courtship with a language as Ovids The Art of Love does with amore itself. Reviewed by Howard Norman MASTER OF CEREMONIES : A Memoir, by Joel Grey (Flatiron). This lovely memoir by the actor best known for his role as the emcee in the film Cabaret is a reminder that just a few decades ago people in every profession believed that being perceived as straight was an essential prerequisite for success even actors in the theater. Reviewed by Charles Kaiser A MOTHERS RECKONING : Living in the Aftermath of Tragedy, by Sue Klebold (Crown). This books insights are painful and necessary, and its contradictions inevitable. It is an apology to the loved ones of the victims; an account of the Klebold familys life in the days and months following the shooting; a catalogue of warning signs missed. Most of all, it is a mothers love letter to her son, for whom she mourned no less deeply than did the parents of the children he killed. Reviewed by Carlos Lozada THE SWANS OF FIFTH AVENUE , by Melanie Benjamin (Delacorte). In this highly entertaining novel, Benjamin investigates the bonds between Truman Capote and socialite Babe Paley. Its a bit like wandering through La Cote Basque at lunchtime and overhearing snippets of conversation. Reviewed by Caroline Preston TENDER , by Belinda McKeon (Lee Boudreaux). A poignant story about the deeply troubled relationship between a college student and her best friend when he comes out of the closet. Reviewed by Ron Charles 13 WAYS OF LOOKING AT A FAT GIRL , by Mona Awad (Penguin). Awad follows the life of Elizabeth, a woman whose identity shifts along with her weight. The way food and body image define Elizabeths life is depressing and sad. But the book is neither. There is so much humor here much of it dark, but spot on, like Dolores in Wally Lambs Shes Come Undone or Lena Dunham in Girls. Reviewed by Julie Klam UNITED STATES OF JIHAD : Investigating Americas Homegrown Terrorists, by Peter Bergen (Crown). Bergen makes the case that the real threat from the Islamic State will remain lone wolves Americans inspired by the group, rather than directly financed or trained by it. And he frets about the convergence of the lone-wolf phenomenon with the Islamic States social-media savvy. Reviewed by Mary Louise Kelly THE YID , by Paul Goldberg (Picador). A ragtag group of Russians team up to assassinate Stalin in this darkly playful historical novel. Reviewed by Glen David Gold YOU COULD LOOK IT UP : The Reference Shelf from Babylon to Wikipedia, by Jack Lynch (Bloomsbury). This Rutgers professor of English takes a broad view of his subject and includes lively pages on several dozen radically different works, including The Code of Hammurabi, Plinys Natural History,the long defunct papal index of prohibited books, Hoyles rules for card games, the Grove Dictionary of Music and Musicians, the National Union Catalogue, Emily Posts Etiquette in Society, The Joy of Sex, the Catholic Encyclopedia, the Handbook of Chemistry and Physics and even Schotts Original Miscellany. Reviewed by Michael Dirda YOUNGBLOOD , by Matt Gallagher (Atria). In Youngblood, about a young Army lieutenant stationed outside Baghdad, Gallagher shows how war works in the human heart. Reviewed by Roxana Robinson In the first sentence of Lisa Lutzs novel The Passenger, 28-year-old Tanya Dubois tells us: When I found my husband at the bottom of the stairs, I tried to resuscitate him before I ever considered disposing of the body. Once shes satisfied that the man is dead, Tanya has a shot of his best bourbon and thinks hard about her next step. She assures us that she didnt kill her husband that he must have slipped and fallen down the stairs but admits she doesnt mourn his passing; among other sins, he snored, gambled and didnt trim his toenails. Disposing of his body would be too difficult, she decides, but she wont call police and report the death. Why? Because, she says, theyd start looking at me real carefully and I didnt like people looking at me. In other words, Tanya has secrets, many secrets, secrets the author will reveal slowly as the novel progresses. So she packs her bag, gases up her husbands car and leaves Wisconsin in search of a new life, pausing briefly for a parting romp with the chiropractor who has been her lover. [Best mystery books and thrillers of 2015] Low on funds, Tanya drives to Nebraska, checks into a motel and calls a Mr. Oliver to demand that he send her a new identity and $5,000. He finally agrees but is so hostile that she fears he may instead send someone to kill her. We have no idea who Mr. Oliver is. She drives to Austin, where she chances to meet a woman known as Blue (for her ice-blue eyes) whose history is as murky as her own. One night, as the two women leave a bar, two men with guns force them into a car and head out of town. Tanya, assuming these are Mr. Olivers killers, manages to twist the steering wheel, whereupon Blue grabs a gun and shoots both men dead. Its time for Tanya to leave Texas, but she and the formidable Blue will meet again. Thus begins Tanyas odyssey across the United States. Shes often desperate to obtain new IDs when old ones are compromised. Sometimes she steals them from women who unwisely leave their purses unguarded. She often cuts and dyes her hair, and once she changes her looks by gorging on sweets until she gains 25 pounds. We are reminded that its all but impossible to exist in todays United States without a drivers license, a Social Security number and other forms of identification. Tanya likes bars, but men she meets there endlessly hit on her and ask unwelcome questions. The only man shes drawn to turns out to be a sheriff, which complicates their relationship. When she finds a job teaching in a private school in Wyoming, she loves the children, but a man from her past arrives to kill her. He pays for his mistake and she moves on. Everywhere she goes, dangers await. In Upstate New York, needing shelter, Tanya breaks into vacant country homes only to have their owners arrive unexpectedly. Two of them want to kill the intruder. If her adventures sometimes feel fanciful, theyre well told and exciting. The question is whether this intelligent, essentially moral woman can escape the disaster her life has become. She is, we come to think, more sinned against than sinning. A series of email exchanges between Tanya and a man named Ryan gives hints of her past. Ryan loves her but she spurns his offers of help. They havent seen each other in years and they speak guardedly of lies, even deaths, back then. It appears that Tanya is struggling with problems that began amid the passions and confusions of high school. If she is to find salvation she must stop fleeing her past and confront it. Or would that path lead to prison? Lutz is also the author of the popular Spellman Files, starring a quirky young private investigator from a dysfunctional family. With The Passenger she has re-introduced herself as a more serious and intriguing author of crime fiction. Anderson reviews mysteries and thrillers for Book World. Miss Piggy and Kermit the Frog reevaluate their relationship after Miss Piggy has an accident in "The Muppets" season finale. (Andrea McCallin/ABC) (All times Eastern.) The NCIS (CBS at 8 p.m.) team is forced to get back to work after finding a series of errors in what they initially thought was a routine and closed investigation. FINALE WATCH: In the one-hour finale of The Muppets (ABC at 8), Miss Piggy breaks a leg, literally, at a dance rehearsal, so Kermit and the gang broadcast her late-night show from her hospital room. After Miss Piggy leaves the hospital, she and Kermit reevaluate their relationship with some some help from musician Jack White. SERIES PREMIERE: This week marks the launch of Viceland (formerly H2), Vices 24-hour cable channel. Offerings include Noisey (Viceland at 10), exploring music scenes in various U.S. cities, and Weediquette (Viceland at 11), which, in its first episode, introduces parents using potent marijuana oils to treat their childrens life-threatening illnesses. After Emilys close call, the Liars start to take the stalkers threats more seriously on Pretty Little Liars (Freeform at 8). Meanwhile, Caleb deals with the fallout of taking the blame for the campaign leak. Julianna Margulies, author Azar Nafisi and chef Lidia Bastianich study their family histories on Finding Your Roots (WETA and MPT at 8). Amy and Jake house-sit for Holt on Brooklyn Nine-Nine (Fox at 9) but panic when Holts dog, Cheddar, goes missing. Meanwhile, a budding love affair between Adrian and Rosa proves disruptive to the precinct. Johnnie Cochran and Christopher Darden face off in court as the trial begins on The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story (FX at 10). RETURNING SHOW: Season 7 of Ink Master (Spike at 10) pits new contestants against fan favorites from previous seasons in a competition for a $100,000 grand prize, an editorial feature in Inked magazine and the coveted Ink Master title. Rocker Dave Navarro returns as host. Actress Christina Hendricks and model-author Chrissy Teigen will be on The Late Show With Stephen Colbert (CBS at 11:35), along with Adam Savage of Mythbusters. Jimmy Kimmel Live (ABC at 11:35) hosts actors Will Forte and Ross Marquand. Miike Snow is the musical guest. Actors Margot Robbie and Michael McKean visit The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon (NBC at 11:35), along with Kevin Delaney, director of visitor experience at the Museum of Discovery in Arkansas. Jimmy Greene sits in with the Roots. On Feb. 14, Pat Reber discusses such topics as chemical leavenings and their impact on cake baking at a meeting of the Culinary Historians of Washington, D.C. ( / ) THURSDAY CHINESE NEW YEAR: Three courses celebrating the Chinese New Year. Wine pairing also available. 6:30 p.m. $85, not including tax and gratuity. $35 extra for wine pairing. The Source, 575 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 202-637-6100. wolfgangpuck.com. FRIDAY SPARKLING WINE SOIREE: Event features U.S. debut of the Italian sparkling wine Ca dOr Franciacorta. 10:30 p.m.-1 a.m. $75. Masseria, 1340 Fourth St. NE. masseria-dc.com. WINE DINNER: Four courses paired with Milbrandt Vineyards wine. 7-9 p.m. $45. Pinstripes, 1064 Wisconsin Ave. NW. 202-625-6500. pinstripes.com/dc. SATURDAY CHOCOLATE AND THE USMC: Attendees learn about the history of chocolate in the United States Marine Corps. Noon-3 p.m. Free. National Museum of the Marine Corps, Teacher-in-Residence Trailer, 18900 Jefferson Davis Hwy., Triangle, Va. 703-784-4464. usmcmuseum.com. CHOCOLATE WALK: Third annual event featuring more than 40 shops in historic Occoquan. 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Free. 200 Mill St., Occoquan. historicoccoquan.com. CULINARY CLASS: In a class geared toward couples, participants make chocolate truffles while tasting port. 4-5:30 p.m. Fairmont Washington Hotel, 2401 M St. NW. 202-457-5020. fairmont.com/washington. SUNDAY CULINARY HISTORY TALK: Pat Reber discusses the history of cakes. 2:30-4:30 p.m. Free. Bethesda-Chevy Chase Regional Services Center, Meeting Room A, 4805 Edgemoor Lane, Bethesda. 202-487-6740. chowdc.org. MONDAY UZBEKISTAN FEAST: Special menu with a talk on Uzbek cuisine by Rus-Uz manager Abraham Rakhmatullaev. Reservations required by Feb. 11. 6:30 p.m. $50, including tax and gratuity. Rus-Uz, 1000 N. Randolph St., Arlington. lesdamesdc.org. RESERVE NOW FEB. 17 CHINESE NEW YEAR DINNER: The Sources Scott Drewno collaborates with chef-restaurateur Peter Chang on a special menu. 7 p.m. $75. The Source, 575 Pennsylvania Ave. NW. 202-637-6100. wolfgangpuck.com COOKING DEMO: Attendees learn about heirloom beans. Noon-12:45 p.m. Free. U.S. Botanic Garden, Conservatory Garden Court, 100 Maryland Ave. SW. 202-225-8333. usbg.gov. FEB. 18 COOKING CLASS: Chef Mark Haskell teaches participants how to make various types of sausage. 7-9 p.m. $49. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org. FEB. 19 FOOD LECTURE: The Posts Tim Carman talks with author Darra Goldstein about her book on Scandinavian cuisine, Fire + Ice. 7 p.m. $40 includes copy of book; $20 entrance only. Hill Center at the Old Naval Hospital, 921 Pennsylvania Ave. SE. 202-549-4172. hillcenterdc.org. FEB. 20 COGNAC & ARMAGNAC TASTING: Learn about the history and production of cognac, armagnac, brandy and more. Lunch included. 1-3 p.m. $85. Acadiana, 901 New York Ave. NW. 202-408-8848. acadianarestaurant.com. FEB. 21 COOKING CLASS: Demonstration on cooking comfort foods. 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $55 for one, $100 for two. Veggie Gourmet, 9302 Hallston Ct., Fairfax Station. 703-643-2713. veggourmet.wordpress.com. Kara Elder Submit event listings at washingtonpost.com/gog/talk-to-us.html at least 14 days in advance. Flash The Islamic State (IS) group on Sunday claimed responsibility for two deadly bomb attacks in eastern Baghdad that killed at least 28 people and wounded 62 others. A man walks at the site of suicide blasts in Baghdad's Sadr City Iraq Feb. 28, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua] Two suicide bombers detonated themselves at the crowded popular Mreidy Market in the predominantly Shiite district of Sadr City in eastern Baghdad, killing and wounding dozens of people, according to an IS statement on the Internet, of which the authenticity could not be independently verified. Earlier in the day, an Interior Ministry source told Xinhua that a booby-trapped motorcycle went off at the marketplace, which was followed by a suicide bomber blowing up his explosive vest at the scene. The attackers apparently followed the old tactic of first creating an initial explosion to attract security forces and people, and then setting off another blast to inflict heavier casualties. The IS has frequently targeted areas where crowds of people gather, including markets, cafes and mosques across Iraq. Iraq is currently witnessing a wave of violence since the IS terrorist group took control of parts of Iraq's northern and western regions in June 2014. Earlier, a UN report estimated more than 22,300 people were killed or injured in armed conflicts in Iraq in 2015. Many blame the current chronic instability, cycle of violence, and the emergence of extremist groups such as the IS on the United States which invaded Iraq in March 2003 under the pretext of seeking to destroy weapons of mass destruction (WMD) in the country. The U.S. invasion has led to the ouster and eventual execution of former Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, but no WMD was found. What is it like to be an Oscar winner and a mere mortal at the exclusive Vanity Fair Oscar party? Lets walk in behind Brie Larson and find out. (Adrian Sanchez-Gonzalez/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images) Shhhhh, Jennifer Garner is approaching and we mustnt look too eager, mustnt look needy, must ever so casually scooch over on the leather bench to show that theres room here if she wants to sit those strappy heels look so uncomfy, Jen and finally, all at once, weve done it. Vanity Fair magazines current cover star folds up her ball gown and plops down next to us. She smells like cucumbers, and America. To the right: Whoopi Goldberg in high-top sneakers. To the left: Faye Dunaway in a formidable pantsuit. The Oscars ceremony might be one of the most prestigious events in the celebrity world, but the Vanity Fair celebration is the most exclusive after-party a celebrity State of the Union in which all of the movie stars in all of the land are brought to one large building to hobnob and glad-hand and get away from the mortals. Whoopi Goldberg arrives at the Vanity Fair party. (Evan Agostini/Invision/Associated Press) Eddie Redmayne, right, with wife Hannah Bagshawe. Thats a very touchable-looking tux youre wearing. (Evan Agostini/Invision/Associated Press) Its harder to get into than the White House (electronic key cards must be presented at two checkpoints), and its more expensive to get into than college (invited A-listers pay nothing, of course, but wannabe arrivistes have been known to bid $200,000 for a pair of tickets at charity auctions), and the world inside the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts is one where the ratios are all wrong: Every person there is famous. Inside is the demystification of celebrity. Inside is the anthropological exercise of our times. [Oscars 2016: 16 things you missed, including Leonardo DiCaprios first win and Chris Rocks diversity jokes] Rooney Mara! Hello, and you are eating french fries and your dress looks much less doily-ish in person. Jason Bateman! Hello, and you have a very large head. Near a cluster of high-top tables, Paula Patton, a.k.a. Robin Thickes ex, brushes against the shoulder of Emily Ratajkowski, a.k.a. Robin Thickes mostly naked music video muse. They do not appear to notice each other but hand to heart as they pass, the faraway DJ cues up Blurred Lines. Patton rolls her eyes. Just think how many times shes heard this song, how many times she mustve tried to explain that hug me didnt rhyme with the words Thicke thought they rhymed with. Paula Patton, you must be so sick of hearing that one song. (Danny Moloshok/Reuters) Lets take a lap through astronomical fame, shall we? Weaving through the white-jacketed servers and comfy leather sofas and dance music, and . . . Dear God, is that Mickey Rooney? Quick Google. No, Mickey Rooney died in 2014. Who is it? Who is the adorable raisin sitting on the squashy chair surrounded by more fans than anyone else in the room? Ed Asner? Alan Arkin? No. No. Mustnt stare at the old man. Must stare instead at Eddie Redmayne, chatting with Captain America Chris Evans. They are intently stroking each others tuxes. Eddies looks like it is made of velvet, and he is saying Shut up! Shut uppp! but in a delightful British way. Must stare instead at Adrien Brody, with some sort of Frenchy silk scarf wrapped around his neck as he periodically claps along to Michael Jackson, or at best-actor nominee Bryan Cranston, who is explaining, Its satin, as someone else fingers his jacket sleeve. Rampant tux-stroking is this a thing? Chris Evans, right, with siblings Scott and Carly. (Evan Agostini/Invision/Associated Press) Its great, Jon Hamm. Its great! (Pascal Le Segretain/Getty Images) Must fight through the hipster-eyeglassed cadre of screenwriters to get outside for a breath of air, because thats where the cigarette smoking is happening, and thats where host Graydon Carter is shaking hands, and so thats where we expect the fun, naughty people to be. Its great! Its great, Jon Hamm is reassuring someone out on the patio. Then that person walks away and Hamm turns to comic Louis C.K. and says, Thats all actors ever need to hear: Its great, its great. Hey, has anyone watched Vinyl? someone else asks Hamm and C.K. and another friend in the group. A long pause. Its not great, one of them responds. C.K. leaves the patio and meanders back into the main room, where he gets down on one knee in front of the pruny non-Mickey Rooney man, in some sort of deeply respectful homage. Who is this? Desperate Google search: Old white bald famous comedians. Don Rickles! Don Rickles is the pruny comedian to whom all other comedians must pay their respects! Glad thats settled. Sylvester Stallone arrives without an Oscar but with his wife, Jennifer Flavin. (Adrian Sanchez-Gonzalez/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images) Ohhh, the first big Oscar winner has arrived. Brie Larson, changed out of her blue ceremony gown into something pink and slouchy. She slowly makes her way through the herd of photographers outside and then lets follow as she enters the door, shall we? What does it feel like to be an Oscar winner entering this party? Answer: It feels like a big hug from Common, the first guest to spot Larson when she steps inside. Wonderful, he tells her as she throws her arms around his neck. And then please let us through, Daisy Ridley, pardon us, Sissy Spacek well follow Larson toward the bar, where another guy keeps bellowing at her I always said you were the real thing! while she orders a drink, and then well follow her . . . Well, we wont be following her anywhere, because suddenly the path is blocked by Spotlight: Michael Keaton and Liev Schreiber and Rachel McAdams and a bunch of producer-types with a bunch of Oscar statuettes. Pardon us, fellas, but but no, we are stuck, we are packed too tightly between the butts of Keaton and Jake Gyllenhaal, who has nothing to do with Spotlight but has suddenly appeared and is immovable. Oscars host Chris Rock with his mother, Rosalie Rock, left, and actress Megalyn Echikunwoke. (Adrian Sanchez-Gonzalez/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images) I just saw her last night, Keaton says to his friend. Just keep your head above water, Gyllenhaal says to his own friend. Keaton: She was my date. Gyllenhaal: Just keep your head above water. This is it. This is how it ends. Until the end of time, trapped between a former Batman and Maggies brother, forever and ever and . . . Is that Gaga? someone shouts. Its Gaga! Just like that, the crowd loosens, lubricated by the desire for Lady Gaga, as people whip out their iPhones and surge toward the corner where Gaga graciously poses for selfies selfies with Gwen Stefani, selfies with Taylor Swift visible in the background, and, while we debate our own desire for a selfie, we find that Jason Segel, most recently of the David Foster Wallace biopic The End of the Tour, is standing on our dress. David Foster Wallace was a family friend, we tell Segel. (True.) Dad said you really captured Daves spirit. (No clue whether Dad ever saw the movie.) That means so much, Segel says, putting his hand over his heart, looking genuinely touched. That really means so much. Its great, its great. Were getting the hang of this. Alicia Vikander has a moment with her Oscar. (Adrian Sanchez-Gonzalez/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images) Mark Rylance introduces his Oscar to the party. (Adrian Sanchez-Gonzalez/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images) How many burgers have I had? demands a deeply concerned Seth MacFarlane at the In -N-Out stand outside. The counter lady holds up three fingers. Three? Ive had three burgers? We could say its two if that would make you feel better, she says, handing him another one. So this would make three? If you want it to be. Just tell me, he begs. Tell me how many burgers Ive eaten. Oh, dear. Ben Affleck has arrived, and, after maintaining an appropriate quarantine in the outdoor-smoking portion of the party, he begins to migrate toward the leather-sofa portion of the party, where Jennifer Garner still mingles. Just two days earlier, she had broken her silence about their divorce in a soul-baring interview published by Vanity Fair; now we are watching them move toward each other as if watching a slow-motion collision. Uh oh, theres Ben Affleck. Is this going to be awkward? (Adrian Sanchez-Gonzalez/Agence France-Presse/Getty Images) His ex, Jennifer Garner. Everythings totally civilized here. (Danny Moloshok/Reuters) But then its fine, its totally fine. They greet each other warmly and linger near each other at close proximity; its all very friendly and grown-up and this is hard to explain but the weird, complicated humanity of it makes us feel that we belong here at this party for the absurdly rich and famous. We are all just people, after all. This all makes sense. Then a starlet approaches, the name escapes us, but young and fresh-faced, the kind youd see in a Disney musical, and she greets us a bright smile. You look just like Emma, she purrs, tracing a line in the air around our face. Oh really? Emma Watson? Emma Stone? Emma Thompson? All Emmas are good Emmas. Emma, she starts again. My publicists dog-walker. Right, then. The Don Rickles chair has been taken over by Quincy Jones, himself now attended by a long line of young Hollywood people waiting to pay respects. Leonardo DiCaprio and Alicia Vikander have come and gone. Actually, a lot of people have gone. The tables are littered with empty champagne flutes, the floor is littered with crumbs. See you at the next party? a woman calls to her friend. This is the last party, the friend cackles back. The only party. The stars of the world, and their publicists and dog-walkers, all head out into the Hollywood night. Read about past Vanity Fair Oscar parties: 2015: Oscars not diverse enough? Vanity Fair after-party had beautiful people of all colors 2013: All is insanity at Vanity Fairs Oscar party 2012: The Oscars after party: Navigating a sea of stars at Vanity Fair 2011: Inside the Vanity Fair Oscar party: Touching the Donalds hair Shireen Helps tosses Blindy, a sightless little blue penguin, into the middle of a pond to keep it from crashing into the side as it swims. (Nick Perry/Associated Press) Blindy the little blue penguin was born sightless and developed the unusual habit of swimming in tight circles. So, to prevent the bird from continually crashing into the side of the small pond where it swims, Shireen Helps began tossing it out into deeper water. Penguins are flightless, but Blindy, for a few moments anyway, gets to be airborne. Blindy lives in New Zealands Flea Bay, home to three humans and more than 2,500 penguins. Efforts by the Helps family over more than three decades have helped save the bays penguins from predators while many nearby colonies were wiped out. These days, the colony is thriving, a hopeful sign at a time when many penguin species from Antarctica to the Galapagos Islands, which are off the coast of Ecuador, are facing threats from humans that come from overfishing and global warming. Shireen and her husband, Francis, never intended to become penguin caretakers. Francis moved to Flea Bay, also known as Pohatu, in 1969, with the intention of farming sheep and cattle. He said it wasnt until the first night, when he was kept awake by noises that sounded like the braying of donkeys, that he realized he was surrounded by penguins. Blindy, who lives in Flea Bay, New Zealand, is about 12 weeks old. The little blue penguin cant see. (Nick Perry/Associated Press) Theyre very noisy at night, especially pre-breeding, Shireen said. They get really wound up. They party all night. After meeting Francis, Shireen moved to the bay in 1974 and noticed that other penguin colonies in the area were disappearing, she said. And thats when we started to look critically around our own back yard, she said. We found dead penguins everywhere. We realized that predators were hitting into them, and if somebody didnt do something to save this colony, it would be lost. So they began trapping feral cats, ferrets and stoats, which are like weasels. They also built tiny wooden huts to stop the penguins from fighting one another for nesting sites. Finally, they started nursing the ill birds, managing to save some and return them to the wild. Found in parts of Australia and New Zealand, the penguins are called little penguins, little blue penguins or fairy penguins. Adults stand just 13 inches tall and weigh a little more than two pounds, making them the worlds smallest penguin species. Those living around Banks Peninsula, which includes Flea Bay, are known as white-flippered because of the distinctive white stripes along the leading edge of their flippers. Blindy, who is about 12 weeks old, was from a nearby colony and was found alone in a creek by a local farmer. Shireen Helps hand-feeds one of the 2,500 penguins that lives near her home. She and her husband have been helping more than three decades to save the penguins from predators. (Nick Perry/Associated Press) Helps said Blindy was born with a malformed head and beak, making it hard to tell if its a male or female. She said at first its circling antics seemed to trouble the bird. If it gets dizzy going around one way, it changes direction and goes around the other way, she said. So its really learning very well. She said the penguin is too disabled to be returned to the wild, but she hopes that a zoo might take it. Animal ecologist Chris Challies, who has long monitored white-flippered little penguins, said the population on Banks Peninsula plunged by as much as 80 percent from 1980 to 2000 as the penguins were attacked by predators such as ferrets. He said the trapping program introduced by the Helps family probably saved the colony through the 1990s. The penguins were also given a boost after local authorities banned fishermen from using nets, which accidentally caught the penguins, and later declared the area around Flea Bay a marine reserve. The little blue penguins are doing very well at the moment, but we cant count on it, Challies said. These things can fluctuate. Its the marine environment we cant control. Unless South Dakotas governor exercises his veto power by the end of the day Tuesday, a new state law would become the first in the nation to restrict transgender students use of public school bathrooms and locker rooms. Thirteen other states also are considering similar legislation, a sign of mounting backlash against federal policies meant to prevent discrimination based on gender identity. In the months since the Supreme Court legalized same-sex marriage in all 50 states, school bathrooms have become the new front in the culture wars over LGBT rights. The Obama administration has declared that students have a civil right to use these sex-segregated spaces in accordance with their gender identity, meaning, for example, that a person who is born biologically male but identifies as a female should be able to use a girls locker room. Its an interpretation of Title IX the federal civil rights law that prohibits sex discrimination that transgender students and their advocates have cheered. But it also has triggered a ferocious backlash from other advocates, parents and lawmakers who call it an assault on traditional values and student privacy. The South Dakota bill and others like it would require students to use public school bathrooms and locker rooms that correspond to their biological sex rather than their gender identity. Gov. Dennis Daugaard (R) has until Tuesday to decide whether to veto it, putting him at the center of a nationwide debate about how public schools should weigh privacy concerns against the interests of transgender students, whose numbers are small but growing. [South Dakota first state to pass bill on transgender students bathroom use] A sticker shows support for a bill that would eliminate Washington state's new rule allowing transgender people to use gender-segregated bathrooms and locker rooms in public buildings consistent with their gender identity. (Ted S. Warren/AP) Weve just had a very rapid culture change. . . . Its hard for me to fathom, said state Rep. Fred Deutsch (R), the South Dakota lawmaker who sponsored the transgender bill, which national child-welfare and LGBT rights groups decry as a bigoted attack on vulnerable children. Under Deutschs bill, South Dakota school bathrooms and locker rooms would be restricted for use only by students of the same biological sex and schools would have to make accommodations for transgender students, such as access to a single-stall teacher restroom. Deutsch said that he is sympathetic to transgender students and believes gender dysphoria is a very real thing but that the government has a duty to protect the privacy of all students. Its about all the children that we have to protect from the opposite biologic sex when theyre young and vulnerable and impressionable, he said. The Human Rights Campaign, which tracks LGBT-related bills, has tallied 14 states where lawmakers have introduced measures that would restrict transgender students access to bathrooms. Cathryn Oakley, senior legislative counsel for the organization, attributed the spike in legislation to an increased awareness about transgender issues stemming, in part, from Olympic athlete Caitlyn Jenners high-profile transition from male to female. Occurring in the Hollywood limelight on television, in social media, and on magazine and newspaper covers Jenners journey thrust gender identity issues into the public consciousness, ushering in greater acceptance in some corners and a counterreaction in others. Many people are starting to understand a little bit more about transgender people, Oakley said. The problem is that along with knowing that transgender people exist . . . there is a certain amount of misunderstanding and fear of the unknown. One force in the fight over public-school bathrooms is the Alliance Defending Freedom, a nonprofit Arizona-based law firm that pushes to uphold values of life, marriage and religious freedom. The organization has written model legislation to restrict access to school bathrooms and locker rooms that lawmakers in at least five states have used, including in South Dakota, according to Matt Sharp, the alliances legal counsel. The group also has emailed its model policy to thousands of school districts nationwide, describing its push as an effort to protect the bodily privacy of children including victims of sexual assault who might be traumatized by running into a member of the opposite biological sex in a restroom. They are the silent victims in all of this. Their rights are being trampled on, Sharp said. There are fundamental biological differences, and its okay to recognize that, particularly when there are privacy reasons involved. The U.S. Education Department declared in 2014 that discrimination against transgender students amounts to a violation of Title IX. Some school districts objected to the administrations interpretation of the law, a tension that came to a head last year in a Chicago suburb. Federal officials, responding to a transgender students discrimination complaint, said that Palatine Township High School District 211 was required to allow the student to change in the girls locker room instead of sending her down the hall to a separate facility. It was the first time that the Education Department found a district in violation of Title IX because of transgender issues. Officials at the school district initially said they would refuse to comply to protect students privacy, even if it meant losing $6 million in federal funding. The dispute led to emotionally charged public meetings that drew crowds of parents who urged the school board to stand its ground. [School district refuses to let transgender student use locker room, defying federal officials] The school district ultimately changed course, coming to an agreement with the federal department that allowed the transgender student to change in the girls locker room, where privacy curtains were installed. Parents are grappling with this issue in communities nationwide. Jenna Cheung of Toms River, N.J., signed a petition opposing her local school districts proposed policy, which called for the superintendent to meet with parents of a transgender child to discuss use of bathrooms and locker rooms. Its just a very impressionable age for something like this to be implemented, said Cheung, 22, who has a 16-year-old sister and a 2-year-old daughter whom she does not want to grow up sharing school bathrooms with transgender students. Its just uncomfortable. Rebecca Dodds, the mother of a transgender son in South Dakota, said that when she hears from parents who are worried about a transgender student in the bathroom with their child, she understands. She said she might have had the same discomfort before she learned about gender identity issues. But she said it also was uncomfortable when her son, who was born female and began to present as a boy in high school, used the girls bathroom. The student and the teacher that were in there were shocked because he appeared male, Dodds said. That began a painful period during which her son did not use the bathroom at all or used the girls bathroom only if there was no one else in it. The courts have yet to endorse the Obama administrations interpretation of Title IX. In two cases, federal district court judges have ruled against male transgender students one a University of Pittsburgh student, the other a high school student from rural Virginia both of whom claimed their schools discriminated against them by prohibiting them from using male restrooms. Both cases are being appealed, but the parties in the Pittsburgh case are in settlement talks, according to court documents. The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 4th Circuit heard arguments in the Virginia case in January and is likely to be the first federal appeals court to weigh in on whether bathroom restrictions constitute sex discrimination. Gavin Grimm, the Virginia high school student, said in his lawsuit that he had been using the boys bathroom for seven weeks at Gloucester High School without issues before the school board, yielding to pressure from parents, passed a policy that required students to use the bathrooms that corresponded to their biological genders. Grappling with his gender identity was hard enough, Grimm said, and being forced from the bathroom where he felt most comfortable only exacerbated the anguish. Matters like identity and self-consciousness are something that most kids grapple with in this age range. . . . When youre a transgender teenager, these things are often very potent, Grimm said in a call with reporters last month. I feel humiliated and dysphoric every time Im forced to use a separate facility. [Va. transgender teens case could have national implications] Transgender advocates often attribute the backlash to a lack of understanding. So when Gov. Daugaard said this month that he had never met a transgender person, he heard from a transgender woman, 22-year-old Kendra Heathscott, who corrected him: A dozen years ago, the two crossed paths when Heathscott attended a day program at the Childrens Home Society, a child-welfare organization that Daugaard ran at the time. The South Dakota governor invited Heathscott and two other transgender people to meet with him last week as he weighed whether to sign into law the bill restricting bathroom use. The goal was to go in there and humanize and give a face to the people who he potentially could be impacting, Heathscott said. She said she started dressing in girls clothing as a child and endured taunting and bullying growing up. Her peers called her it and a he-she. Locker rooms were especially mortifying. Heathscott was deeply embarrassed about her body, and her appearance in the boys locker room became a source of more name-calling. She said she was punished for dressing like a girl and forced to wash off her makeup in high school before school portraits. Heathscott called the governor down to earth. She believed he heard what she and the other young transgender people were saying. And she hoped that it would influence him to veto the measure. Get updates on your area delivered via e-mail BLOOD DONATIONS BLOOD DRIVES Tuesday 3-7 p.m., Rust Library, 380 Old Waterford Rd., Leesburg, 866-256-6372; Friday 9 a.m.-1 p.m., Loudoun Government Center, 1 Harrison St., Leesburg, 866-256-6372; Saturday 9 a.m.-2 p.m., Leesburg Public Safety Center, 65 Plaza St. NE, Leesburg, 800-733-2767; March 10, 3-7 p.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Rd., Ashburn, 866-256-6372; March 14, 2-7:30 p.m., Village at Leesburg, 1603 Village Market Blvd., Suite 100, Leesburg, 800-733-2767. INOVA BLOOD DONOR CENTER Mondays noon-8 p.m., Tuesdays 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Fridays 6 a.m.-4 p.m. and Sundays noon-4 p.m. Dulles Town Center, 45745 Nokes Blvd., Sterling. 866-256-6372 or inova.org/donateblood. FIRST AID FIRST AID/ADULT, INFANT AND CHILD CPR/AED Fauquier Hospital Medical Office Building, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. Call for schedule. 540-316-3588. Registration required. HEARING DISABILITY RESOURCE CENTER Technical assistance through the Virginia Department for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and presentations to businesses, civic groups and schools. Third Tuesdays 2-5 p.m., Workplace, 205 Keith St., Warrenton. Call for an appointment, 800-648-6324; TDD, 540-373-5890. Free. FREE HEARING TESTS Age 18 and older. Mondays-Thursdays 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Blue Ridge Speech and Hearing Center, 19465 Deerfield Ave., Suite 201, Lansdowne. 703-858-7620. Registration required. HEARING LOSS, TINNITUS AND MENIERES SYNDROME SUPPORT For all ages, including parents of children with hearing loss. First Fridays 2 p.m., Senior Center at Cascades, 21060 Whitfield Pl., Sterling. 703-430-2906. NORTHERN VIRGINIA RESOURCE CENTER FOR THE DEAF AND HARD OF HEARING Age 18 and older, second Tuesdays 10 a.m., Carver Center, 200 Willie Palmer Way, Purcellville. 571-258-3400. HEARING LOSS OUTREACH Free referrals. Fourth Thursdays 10 a.m.-noon, Loudoun County Workforce Center, 102 Heritage Way, Leesburg; third Thursdays 10 a.m.-noon, Senior Center at Cascades, 21060 Whitfield Pl., Sterling. Free appointments: 703-430-2906 or nvrcloudoun@aol.com. MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING FOR SEXUAL VIOLENCE SURVIVORS Provided by Loudoun Citizens for Social Justice. 703-771-9020. CRISISLINK Suicide and crisis intervention. The organization provides community education, has a volunteer crisis response team and offers CareRing, a daily telephone outreach program for the elderly and disabled. 703-527-6016, volunteer@crisislink.org or crisislink.org. PIEDMONT CHAPTER, NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS Serves Fauquier, Orange, Madison and Rappahannock counties. Support group, education classes and events for people living with mental illness, plus their family members. First Wednesdays 7-9 p.m. Fauquier Hospital, 500 Hospital Dr., Sycamore Room A, Warrenton. 571-426-8213. NORTHERN VIRGINIA CHAPTER, NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS A support group, classes and programs for people living with mental illness and their family members. For information, go to naminorthernvirginia.org. PREGNANCY, PARENTING ADOPTIVE FAMILY PRESERVATION Adoptive families discuss common experiences; registration required. Third Tuesdays 12:30-2 p.m. Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Rd. Call 703-941-9008, Ext. 23, or email jmellerio@umfs.org. BIRTHRIGHT OF LOUDOUN COUNTY Free pregnancy tests, baby clothing, transportation and support throughout pregnancy, 823 S. King St., Leesburg. 703-777-7272. BOND BETWEEN US Nonprofit group offers support to birth parents when children have been placed for adoption. Fourth Tuesdays 7:30 p.m. Call for location. 703-771-7844. BREASTFEEDING MADE SIMPLE March 7, 6-8:30 p.m. Fauquier Hospital Family Birthing Center, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. 540-316-3588. $25. Register. BREAST-FEEDING SUPPORT Mondays 9:30-10:30 a.m., Fauquier Hospital Family Birthing Center, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. 540-316-3588. DAD SUPPORT New and expectant fathers share ideas. First Tuesdays 7 p.m. Inova Loudoun Hospital, 44045 Riverside Pkwy., Leesburg. 703-858-6360. FOR THE CHILDRENS SAKE A group for separating or divorcing parents to share advice. Four-hour session weekly. Information : 703-391-8599 or fitsfoundation.org. LA LECHE LEAGUE Mother-to-mother support and breast-feeding information. 10 a.m. second Wednesdays in Warrenton, 540-351-6103. Third Fridays 10:15-11:45 a.m., call for location, 703-444-7386. Fourth Mondays 10 a.m. Healthworks of Northern Virginia, 163 Fort Evans Rd., Leesburg, 703-728-9282; Second Fridays 10:15 a.m., Ashburn Library, 43316 Hay Rd., 703-431-3852; Thursdays 10 a.m.-noon, Panera Bread, 43670 Greenway Corp. Dr., Ashburn, email lllashburn@gmail.com. Third Fridays 10:15 a.m., Christ the Redeemer Church, 46833 Harry F. Byrd. Hwy., Sterling, 540-338-4637. LOUDOUN FATHERHOOD PROGRAM Fathers discuss the joys and challenges of being a parent. Meets every other Saturday for two hours for four months; sponsored by Northern Virginia Family Service. 571-748-2796. Free. LOUDOUN NURTURING PARENTING PROGRAM Positive parenting techniques; children attend with parents. Registration required. Call 703-771-3973, Ext. 27, or email nurturingprogram@lcsj.org . Free. MOTHERNET/HEALTHY FAMILIES LOUDOUN Program links first-time parents with medical, social and educational resources to give children a socially and physically healthy start in life. Family support workers meet with participants in homes. English-Spanish translation provided. 703-444-4477, Ext. 217, or inmed.org . NEW MOTHERS SUPPORT Wednesdays 9:30-11:30 a.m. Inova Loudoun Medical Pavilion, 224 Cornwall St., Leesburg, main entrance. Babies welcome. 703-858-6360. YOUNG PARENT SERVICES Support for teenage parents. Loudoun County Department of Family Social Services, 52 Sycolin Rd., Leesburg. Call for times. 703-771-5375. ONLINE CHILDBIRTH EDUCATION PROGRAM Inova Loudoun Hospitals Web-based program uses animation, videos and interactive activities to guide users through the basics of childbirth, breast-feeding and caring for newborns. 703-858-6360. thebirthinginn.org/classes. PARENTING ALONE GROUP For parents of school-age children who have lost a spouse or partner to cancer. Second Tuesdays 5:30-6:30 p.m. Inova Loudoun Hospital, Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy., Suite 100, Leesburg. 703-698-2536 or email jennifer.eckert@inova.org . PREGNANCY AND CHILDBIRTH SUPPORT Childbirth Solutions Resource Center, 8393 W. Main St., Marshall. 571-344-0438. SENIORS CHRONIC DISEASE SELF-MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP For people 55 and older. Learn to manage your own care for chronic diseases during the six week workshop developed by Stanford University. Wednesdays March 2-April 6, 10:30 a.m.-1:15 p.m. Senior Center at Cascades, 21060 Whitfield Pl., Sterling. loudoun.gov/seniors-cascades. 571-258-3280. Free. EXERCISE EQUIPMENT Weights, treadmills, bikes and a cardio-glide. Instruction provided. Age 55 and older. Weekdays 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Leesburg Senior Center, 102 North St. NW. 703-737-8039. Free. EYE CARE LensCrafters staff members will clean glasses and make minor repairs. Second Wednesdays 1-2 p.m. Senior Center at Cascades, 21060 Whitfield Pl., Sterling. 703-430-2397. Free. FITNESS FOR PEOPLE 55 AND OLDER Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 1-1:45 p.m. Carver Center, 200 Willie Palmer Way, Purcellville. 571-258-3400. $36, 12-visit card. INOVA LOUDOUN MOBILE VAN Blood pressure checks. Second and fourth Tuesdays 9:30 a.m.-noon, Senior Center at Cascades, 21060 Whitfield Pl., Sterling, 571-258-3280; first Wednesdays 9:30 a.m.-noon, Leesburg Senior Center, 102 North St. NW. 703-737-8039. LAUGHING YOGA FOR SENIORS I mprove flexibility and balance. Thursdays 9:30-10 :30 a.m. Leesburg Senior Center, 102 North St. NW. 703-737-8039. Free. LOUDOUN ADULT DAY CENTERS For seniors with physical limitations or memory loss, a safe and social environment, therapeutic activities, individualized care and respite for caregivers. Limited transportation. Sliding-scale fees. Weekdays in Leesburg, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m., 703-771-5334; Purcellville, 571-258-3402; and Ashburn-Sterling, 571-258-3232. SENIOR OUTREACH SERVICES Free and confidential assistance from an Area Agency on Aging case manager. Call for an appointment or sign up at the Senior Center at Cascades. First and third Wednesdays 11 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Senior Center at Cascades, 21060 Whitfield Pl., Sterling. 571-258-3280. SENIOR OUTREACH SERVICES Free and confidential assistance from an Area Agency on Aging Elder case manager. Sign up in the Leesburg Senior Center lobby. Second and fourth Thursdays 11 a.m.-noon and 12:30-4:30 p.m. Leesburg Senior Center, 102 North St. NW. 703-737-8039. Free. SENIOR OUTREACH SERVICES Free and confidential assistance from an Area Agency on Aging Elder case manager. Call for an appointment or sign up at the Carver Center. First and third Mondays, 12:30-5 p.m. Carver Center, 200 Willie Palmer Way, Purcellville. 703-737-8741. Free. ZUMBA GOLD CLASS: For people 55 and older who are learning Zumba for the first time, or those who prefer a lower-impact version. The fitness program combines Latin and international music with dance.Thursdays 11 a.m. Senior Center at Cascades, 21060 Whitfield Pl., Sterling. 571-258-3280. $12. TAI CHI Stretching and strengthening movements. Mondays 11 a.m. Leesburg Senior Center, 102 North St. NW. 703-737-8039. Free. ZUMBA GOLD CLASS Age 55 and older. Wear rubber-soled shoes and comfortable clothing; bring water and a towel. Tuesdays 11 a.m., Tuesdays and Fridays at 1 p.m. Senior Center of Leesburg, 102 North St. NW, Leesburg. 703-737-8039. $24 per month. SUPPORT GROUPS AL-ANON SERVICE CENTER OF NORTHERN VIRGINIA A volunteer is available 24 hours with information for spouses, family members and friends of problem drinkers. 703-534-4357 or 877-339-8350. Mondays 8 p.m. Emmanuel Episcopal Church, 125 W. Washington St., Middleburg, 540-554-2747; Tuesdays 7:30 p.m. St. James Episcopal Church, 14 Cornwall St. NW, Leesburg, 877-339-8350; Fridays 8:30 p.m. Grace Episcopal Church, 6507 Main St., The Plains, 800-344-2666; Tuesdays 12:15 p.m. Warrenton Church of Christ, Route 29 N., 540-347-7448; Tuesdays 7 p.m. and Saturdays 8:30 p.m. Warrenton Presbyterian Church, 91 Main St., 800-344-2666. ALCOHOLICS ANONYMOUS Various meeting times and locations in Loudoun County. 800-208-8649 or 703-876-6166. nvintergroup.org. ALZHEIMERS CAREGIVER SUPPORT For those who care for people with Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia. Fourth Wednesdays 4-5:30 p.m. The Villa at Suffield Meadows, 6735 Suffield Lane, Warrenton. 540-316-3800. ALZHEIMERS SUPPORT First Tuesdays 10-11 a.m. Spring Arbor Assisted Living, 237 Fairview St. NW, Leesburg. 540-338-6520. ALZHEIMERS CAREGIVERS SUPPORT For those caring for people with Alzheimers disease and other forms of dementia. Second Mondays 7-8:30 p.m. Galilee United Methodist Church, 45425 Winding Rd., Sterling. 703-430-9229. galileeumc.org. ALZHEIMERS CAREGIVER SUPPORT Emotional, educational and social support for family members and friends of people with the disease. Third Saturdays 10 a.m. Loudoun County Area Agency on Aging, 20145 Ashbrook Pl., Ashburn. Call 703-771-5407 or email lesley.katz@loudoun.gov. ALZHEIMERS SUPPORT First Wednesdays 4 p.m. Leesburg Adult Day Center, 16501 Meadowview Ct., Leesburg. 703-771-5334. TALK ABOUT CURING AUTISM A nonprofit organization educating and supporting families affected by autism. tacanow.org. AUTOIMMUNE SUPPORT Last Thursdays 6:30-7:30 p.m. Jackson Building, 209 Gibson St., Leesburg. Email autoimmunesupport@hotmail.com . BEREAVED PARENT SUPPORT One-on-one counseling is available. Spiritual Care Support Ministry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. 540-349-5814. scsm.tv. BEREAVEMENT SUPPORT For those experiencing loss because of the death of a loved one. Age 18 and older. Third Mondays 1 p.m. Fauquier Hospital Chestnut Room, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. Sponsored by Capital Caring. 703-957-1800. BREAST CANCER SUPPORT Fourth Tuesdays 7-8 p.m. Fauquier Hospital Tower, Chestnut Room, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. 540-349-0588. BREAST CANCER SUPPORT For those with new diagnoses or starting treatment. Register if attending for the first time. Fourth Mondays 5:30-6:30 p.m. Inova Loudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy., Suite 100, Leesburg. 703-858-8857. BREAST CANCER SUPPORT For those who have finished treatment, have had a recurrence or metastatic breast cancer. Register if attending for the first time. Fourth Mondays 6:30-8 p.m. Inova Loudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy., Suite 100, Leesburg. 703-858-8857. Free. BREAST CANCER SUPPORT ASSISTANCE FUND Loudoun County residents who have received a diagnosis or have undergone treatment in the past 12 months are eligible to apply for financial assistance. Areas included are wigs, bras, puffs and prostheses, mammograms and medical bills, food and help with utilities, rent or mortgage, and transportation costs. The Pink Assistance Fund has been established by the Loudoun Breast Health Network. lbhn.org. CANCER SUPPORT Oncology nurses, social workers and spiritual care providers offer education and support to patients, families and caregivers. Second Mondays 5:30-6:30 p.m. Fauquier Hospital Sycamore Room, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. 540-316-2273. CANCER SUPPORT Life with Cancer, for patients, family members and friends. Second Thursdays 7 p.m. Ashburn Presbyterian Church, Room 202, 20962 Ashburn Rd. 703-729-2012. ashburnpresbyterian.org. CAREGIVER SUPPORT GROUP Third Saturdays 10 a.m. Loudoun County Area Agency on Aging, 20145 Ashbrook Pl., Ashburn. 703-771-5407. alz.org/nca. CAREGIVER SUPPORT AND RESOURCE GROUP Wednesdays 10:30 a.m.-noon (no meeting first Wednesdays), Spiritual Care Support Ministry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. 540-349-5814. scsm.tv. CARING FOR AGING PARENTS Support group. Confidential. Fourth Wednesdays 7:30 p.m., Family Focus Counseling Service, 20-B John Marshall St., Warrenton. 540-349-4537. CHADD PARENTS SUPPORT For parents of children with ADD/ADHD. Fourth Sundays 3 p.m. KinderCare, 44051 Ashburn Village Shopping Plaza. chadd.nova loudoun@gmail. com . CHRONIC ILLNESS SUPPORT Tuesdays 10:30-11:30 a.m. Spiritual Care Support Ministries, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. 540-349-5814 or scsm.tv. COFFEE AND CONVERSATION: Support for those discouraged because of illness, bereavement, caregiving or a loved one in the military. Thursdays 10 a.m.-noon. Spiritual Care Support Ministry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. 540-349-5814. COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS For parents who have experienced the death of a child. First Wednesdays 7:30 p.m. St. James Episcopal Church, 14 Cornwall St. NW, Leesburg. 540-882-9707. CREATING AND CONNECTING Two-hour art therapy and relaxation workshop for cancer patients. Every other month, 12:30-2:30 p.m. Inova Loudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy., Suite 100, Leesburg. Call for dates. 703-858-8850. DEPRESSION BIPOLAR SUPPORT ALLIANCE OF WESTERN LOUDOUN Saturdays 3 p.m. Purcellville Library, 220 E. Main St., Carruthers Room. Call 703-431-7160 or email kathy@dbsanca.org. DROP-IN GRIEF SUPPORT For those coping with a death. Second and fourth Wednesdays 1-2 p.m. St. Davids Episcopal Church, 43600 Russell Branch Pkwy., Ashburn. Sponsored by Capital Caring. 703-597-1781. GAY, LESBIAN, BISEXUAL AND TRANSGENDER YOUTH AND PARENT SUPPORT A group in partnership with Metro DC PFLAG. Fourth Sundays 4-6 p.m. Unitarian Universalist Church, 22135 Davis Dr., Sterling . 703-328-6518. GRIEFSHARE Open to anyone who has experienced the death of a loved one. Tue sdays from 7-8:30 p.m. Purcellville Baptist Church, 601 Yaxley Dr., Purcellville. Call 540-338-0918 or email caring@purbap.org. Workbook, $15. GRIEFSHARE Nondenominational seminar and support group. Tuesdays 7:30-9 p.m., and Wednesdays, 1-2:30 p.m. Spiritual Care Support Ministry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. 540-349-5814. Free. GRIEF SUPPORT Sponsored by Hospice Support of Fauquier County. Individual counseling available. First and third Thursdays 3:30-5 p.m. Hospice Support Office, 42 N. Fifth St., Warrenton. Registration required. Call 540-347-5922 or email hospicesupport@verizon.net. GRIEF SUPPORT Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.-noon, Spiritual Care Support Ministry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. 540-349-5814. HOSPICE SUPPORT Free medical-equipment loan facility for Fauquier County residents. Especially needed are donations of wheelchairs, bedside commodes, rolling walkers, electric hospital beds, shower benches and chairs, adult diapers, lift chairs, Ensure and hospital bed mattresses. 540-347-5922. LOOK GOOD, FEEL BETTER For women undergoing or emerging from cancer treatment. Every other month, 6:45 to 9 p.m. ,Inova Loudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy., Suite 100, Leesburg. Call for dates. 703-776-2820. Free. LOUDOUN CHADD SUPPORT Led by Children and Adults With Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Third Thursdays 7 p.m. Leesburg Town Hall, lower-level conference room, 25 W. Market St. 703-669-2445. LOUDOUN INTERGROUP OF OVEREATERS ANONYMOUS Fellowship and support. For locations and times, call 571-420-2012. oa.org. LYME DISEASE SUPPORT Fourth Sundays 2-4 p.m. Inova Loudoun Hospital, 44045 Riverside Pkwy., Conference Room A and B, Leesburg. Go to natcaplyme.org or email loudounlymeadvocates@gmail.com. LYME DISEASE SUPPORT Third Thursdays 7 p.m. Warrenton Church of Christ, 6398 Lee Hwy. Access Road, Warrenton. 540-347-7265 or email lymeinfauquier@gmail.com. Free. MADD LOUDOUN VICTIM SUPPORT For those who have been affected by drunken driving. Third Wednesdays 7:30 p.m. 210 Wirt St., Leesburg. 540-338-6491. MAN-TO-MAN CANCER SUPPORT Sponsored by Loudoun Cancer Care Center, for prostate cancer patients and their families. Second Tuesdays 6:30-8 p.m. Senior Center at Cascades, 21060 Whitfield Pl., Sterling. Call 703-858-8857 or email karen.archer@inova.org. MENOPAUSE SUPPORT Third Thursdays 6:30-9 p.m. Inova Loudoun Hospital, 44045 Riverside Pkwy., Leesburg (second floor, Patient Education Room). 703-858-8060. MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SUPPORT Saturdays 10:30 a.m. Fauquier Hospital Chestnut Room, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. 540-349-2826. MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS SUPPORT Last Sundays 2-4 p.m. Cascades Library, 21030 Whitfield Pl., Potomac Falls. 703-771-4256. NAR-ANON FAMILY SUPPORT For those affected by loved ones with addiction. Meaningful Mondays, 7-8 p.m., Galilee United Methodist Church, 45425 Winding Rd., Sterling. 703-203-9792; Wisdom Wednesdays 7-8 p.m., St. Francis de Sales Catholic Church, 37730 St. Francis Ct., Purcellville, 703-606-7125; Serenity Thursdays, 7-8 p.m. Leesburg Presbyterian Church, 207 W. Market St., Leesburg, 703-606-7125. PARKINSON'S SUPPORT Open to anyone with Parkinson's disease, family members and caregivers. First Tuesdays 1:30-3 p.m. Call for Ashburn location. 571-442-8851. PET LOSS SUPPORT Saturday 10-11:30 a.m., Spiritual Care Support Ministry Center, 76 W. Shirley Ave., Warrenton. Susan Amato and Liz Shaw facilitating. 540-349-5814 . POST-PARTUM SUPPORT Second and fourth Wednesdays 1-2:30 p.m. Inova Loudoun Cornwall Campus, 224 Cornwall St., Leesburg. 703-909-9877. Email lamckeough@gmail.com. Registration required. REACH TO RECOVERY Home visit program for mastectomy and lumpectomy patients. Temporary prostheses, exercise instruction and encouragement. 703-938-5550. RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS SUPPORT Friday 7 p.m. Fauquier Hospital Chestnut Room, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. 703-895-2167. SEXUAL ASSAULT AND INCEST SURVIVORS GROUP COUNSELING Services provided by Loudoun Citizens for Social Justice and the Loudoun Abused Womens Shelter are free and confidential. 703-771-9020. SEXUAL ASSAULT SURVIVORS EMPOWERMENT SUPPORT Sponsored by Sexual Assault Victims Volunteer Initiative. Child care available with 48-hours notice. Mondays; call for times and locations. 540-349-7720. SPIRITUAL SUPPORT GROUP For cancer patients, family members and friends. Third Tuesdays 6:30-8 p.m. Inova Loudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy., Suite 100, Leesburg. 703-858-8850. STROKE SURVIVORS AND CAREGIVERS SUPPORT Second Wednesdays 11 a.m.-noon, Inova Loudoun Hospital, 44045 Riverside Pkwy., Leesburg, second floor, Patient Education Room. 703-858-6667 or robyn.thomson@inova.org. SUICIDE COUNSELING Third Wednesdays 7-8:30 p.m. Leesburg Town Office, Conference Room 2, lower level, 25 W. Market St., Leesburg. 703-587-1618 or survivorsofsuicidelossleesburg@gmail.com. WOMENS SUPPORT Sponsored by Services to Abused Families. Tuesdays 6:30-8 p.m. Confidential location. 540-825-8876. WIDOW AND WIDOWER SUPPORT Third Mondays 11 a.m. Leesburg Senior Center, 102 North St. NW. 703-737-8039. WOMENS CANCER SUPPORT Woman to Woman, first Wednesdays 6:30-8 p.m. Inova Loudoun Hospital Radiation Oncology Center, 44035 Riverside Pkwy., Suite 100, Leesburg. Registration required. 703-858-8850. MISCELLANEOUS BRAIN TRAUMA SURVIVORS BROWN BAG LUNCH For survivors and caregivers, first Tuesdays, noon-1:30 p.m. Inova Loudoun Hospital, 44045 Riverside Pkwy., Leesburg, second-floor Patient Education Room. Call 703-737-3150 or email jberg@braininjurysvcs.org. Free. CHILD DEVELOPMENTAL SCREENINGS For ages 2-5. Children may not be kindergarten-age-eligible. Sponsored by the Loudoun County public schools Child Find Center. 571-252 - 2180. CHOLESTEROL SCREENINGS Weekdays 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Fauquier Health LIFE Center, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. 540-316-2640. Registration required. $35. EMERGENCY FOOD SUPPLIES Loudoun residents who are in need can receive a free three-day supply of groceries. Supplies are distributed Mondays through Saturdays by Loudoun Interfaith Relief. 703-777-5911. interfaithrelief.org. FAUQUIER FREE WALK-IN MEDICAL CLINIC Patients must call Thursdays from 12:30 to 1 p.m. to register for the clinic, which begins at 5:30 p.m. Patients are also seen by appointment Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Fauquier and Rappahannock residents only. Bring proof of address for the first visit. Patients cannot have Medicaid, Medicare or private insurance. Information: 540-347-0394 Tuesdays or Thursdays, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. FAUQUIER HOSPITAL BISTRO SENIOR SUPPER CLUB Nutritious meals and fellowship for people 55 and older. Tuesdays and Thursdays 4:30-6:30 p.m. Fauquier Hospital Bistro on the Hill, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. 540-316-3588. $5.47. GAMERS UNION FOR TEENS WITH ASPERGERS Youths 12 to 21 interact through gaming; their caregivers meet for networking. Second Tuesdays 6 p.m. Rust Library, 380 Old Waterford Rd., Leesburg. 703-777-0323. Free. HEROES (Hometown Enabling Relationships, Opportunities and Empowerment through Support) is a program for military families. A trained volunteer provides support to military members and their families, from pre-deployment up to two years post-deployment. Assistance includes financial help, job placement, family care and mental health services. heroesca re.org or email caring@purbap.org . INOVA LOUDOUN HOSPITAL MOBILE HEALTH SERVICES BLOOD PRESSURE SCREENINGS Monday 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Levis Hill House, 1000 W. Washington St., Middleburg. Information: 703-858-8818 or inova.org/mobilehealth. Free. NORTHERN VIRGINIA ONG-TERM CARE OMBUDSMAN Call for help in resolving complaints related to long-term-care facilities. 703-324-5861. MOTOR SKILL SCREENINGS Birth to 21 months. First Thursdays, Blue Ridge Speech and Hearing Center, 19465 Deerfield Ave., Suite 201, Lansdowne. Call for an appointment. 703-858-7620. Free. ROAD TO RECOVERY, for cancer patients who need rides to appointments. 410-781-6909. Email jen.burdette@cancer.org. Free. SEVEN LOAVES FOOD PANTRY Individuals and families can receive a three-day supply of food, distributed Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays 10 a.m.-noon. 540-687-3489 or sevenloavesmiddleburg.org. STROKE AND TIA COMMUNITY LECTURE March 9, 7 p.m. Fauquier Hospital Hospital Sycamore Room, 500 Hospital Dr., Warrenton. TREE OF LIFE FOOD PANTRY Serving western Loudoun County. Food is delivered Wednesdays and Saturdays. 703-554-3595. Compiled by Sandy Mauck TO SUBMIT AN ITEM Email: ldextra@washpost.com Fax: 703-777-8437 Mail: Health Calendar, The Washington Post, 104 Dry Mill Rd. SW, Suite 101, Leesburg, Va. 20175 Loudoun County and Fauquier County health calendar Loudoun County and Fauquier County health calendar Loudoun County and Fauquier County health calendar Loudoun County and Fauquier County health calendar Loudoun County and Fauquier County health calendar Loudoun County and Fauquier County health calendar Loudoun County and Fauquier County health calendar Loudoun County and Fauquier County health calendar Democratic candidate Kathleen Matthews during a debate at the Aspen Hill Library in Aspen Hill, Md., on Jan. 27. (Evelyn Hockstein/For The Washington Post) David Trone and Kathleen Matthews, two wealthy novice candidates for Marylands 8th District Democratic congressional nomination, have had to defend their lack of traditional office-holding experience from opponents barbs and voters skeptical questioning. They pushed back Sunday in a forum at Walt Whitman High School in Bethesda, calling two of their incumbent competitors to account for supporting the states notorious redistricting plan. State Sen. Jamie Raskin and Del. Kumar Barve voted in 2011 to redraw Marylands congressional district boundaries to create a seventh safe Democratic seat. The shift resulted in the 2012 defeat of longtime Sixth District Republican Rep. Roscoe Bartlett and the election of Democratic Rep. John Delaney. Critics assailed the redrawn map as brazen gerrymandering by the states Democratic leadership that diluted the influence of minority voters. The issue surfaced as Del. Ana Sol-Gutierrez and former White House aide Will Jawando responded to a question about election reform. [In wealthy Montgomery, some high-earning candidates] The map, I think, is really unfortunate, said Gutierrez, who opposed the plan. You want to ask people on this stage when youre looking for differences why they voted for it and whos not represented when we gerrymander? People of color, said Jawando, the only African American among the nine candidates. He was referring to an element of the plan that removed a portion of Montgomery County represented by Rep. Donna F. Edwards (D-Md.), stretching her 4th District into largely white Anne Arundel County. Edwards is running in the Democratic senatorial primary against 8th District incumbent Rep. Chris Van Hollen. Trone, a national wine retailer, and Matthews, a former news anchor and Marriott executive, both assailed the boundary shifts as part and parcel of a dysfunctional political system. Jamie and Kumar voted for the gerrymander in Maryland, which did create another Democratic district, and thats fine if youre a Democrat, Matthews said. But what if its Virginia, where Republicans have control? It creates the hyper-partisanship were living with in Congress today. She said she supported a national commission to address gerrymandering. Raskin, a professor of constitutional law at American University, said the solution is an interstate compact with Virginia to create a neutral commission. We should get out of gerrymandering in Maryland but do it with Virginia at the same time. Stop gerrymandering the opposition to oblivion. Trone scoffed at Raskins regional solution. A commission with Virginia is rhetoric. It is going nowhere, is politics as usual. . . . We need a national commission. We need to start in Congress. Raskin later tried to have the last word: You guys might not like that vote, he said. I dont like the fact that you didnt vote in two of the last three Democratic primaries, so were even there. [Md Congressional race: incumbency vs. gender vs. business success] Raskin was referring to Montgomery County voting records that show Matthews did not vote in the 2012 and 2014 Maryland Democratic primaries. Trone did not vote in the 2010 or 2012 primaries. Both said they were away on business travel. Barve did not address gerrymandering directly during the debate, sponsored by Montgomery Countys District 16 Democratic Club. In an emailed statement Monday he said he also supported national and regional solutions. He added: David Trone has spent hundreds of thousands dollars electing Republicans to legislative seats throughout the nation and yet criticizes the Maryland Redistricting Plan that added a Democratic seat to the U.S. House of Representatives. Barve was referring to Trones contributions to state-level Republicans to lobby for regulations favorable to his wine business. Also running in the primary are David Anderson, a vice president at the Washington Center for Internships and Academic Seminars, and former State Department congressional liaison Joel Rubin. The Sunday forum was a mostly tame affair, with a decorous tone set by the moderator, former Montgomery County Council member Gail Ewing. When the sparks over gerrymandering flew, she expressed surprise and a bit of disappointment: Well, I have to commend the group. This is the first time somebody pointed somebody else out in a negative way, she said. Its all been very positive until this minute. A Saturday evening forum, sponsored by the Montgomery Sentinel, was another story. Executive editor Brian Karem poked, prodded and interrupted the candidates for two-plus hours. Things turned a little tense during a segment he called Keep It Real, in which Karem asked candidates to express themselves with Trump-like bluntness. Karem asked Jawando, the only African American on the dais, to go first. I wont ask why you a started with me, Jawando said. Because I looked at you first, Karem said, sounding annoyed. Jawando agreed to lead off, and spoke about mass incarceration of blacks as a legacy of slavery. [Matthews on endorsing Van Hollen over Edwards: All politics are local.] The evening did produce a couple of illuminating exchanges. Trone, who has vowed to spend millions of his own money to win, was asked if wealthy self-funded candidates are as harmful to democracy as the unlimited amounts of donor cash allowed under the Citizens United decision. Trone said special interest groups are continuing to corrode democracy but that his money was different because it afforded him complete independence. Because of that the only people I have to listen to . . . are the voters of the 8th District. Thats a pretty big difference, Trone said. Karem: Is there any greater risk if the congressman we elect is part of the 1 percent and not part of everyone else who doesnt make that much money? Trone: You shouldnt have to apologize for success . . . Karem: Im not asking that. Trone: I started with zero, the same as everybody else in this room, and Ive done well. That is a testament to a lot of really hard work . . . Karem: And God bless you, but still the question is does it make it any different? Does someone who has money [have] a better chance of running for office than someone who does not? Trone: The fact that someone has dollars is clearly going to give them an edge. But it also gives them independence. Thats the key. Raskin took issue with Trones definition of success. You use it the way Republicans do," Raskin said. There are a lot of successful school teachers and bus drivers and journalists and artists who live in our district and they are just as successful as any millionaire or billionaire who decides to run for office. When the forum slipped past its scheduled 7:30 ending, Trone, who was due at another event, slipped off his watch and dangled it in front of Karem, reminding him that the evening was over. Army sergeant Ronald Williams Hamilton could face the death penalty after fatally shooting his wife and an Prince William County officer on Feb. 27, during a domestic dispute. (Ashleigh Joplin/The Washington Post) Army sergeant Ronald Williams Hamilton could face the death penalty after fatally shooting his wife and an Prince William County officer on Feb. 27, during a domestic dispute. (Ashleigh Joplin/The Washington Post) The risks are real, and the threats are much more complex than most people want to acknowledge. Every time cops like Ashley Guindon put on their badges and head to work, the criminals they encounter are only one small part of their difficult, dangerous jobs. Nearly 1 million men and women in blue put their lives in jeopardy every day because they are too often the ones fighting the war on so many social issues that the rest of the nation refuses to properly address: domestic violence, substance abuse, mental illness, post-traumatic stress disorder, poverty and gun control. This was how Guindon a 28-year-old Marine Corps Reserve veteran and a double-degree college graduate in aeronautics and forensics was killed Saturday on her first shift as a Prince William County police officer. [Officer fatally shot on her first day on the street in Northern Virginia] Hundreds gathered for a candlelight vigil on Sundayto honor the life and sacrifice of Prince William Police Officer Ashley Guindon, who was gunned down the day before. (Reza A. Marvashti /For the Washington Post) She was an ideal rookie smart, tough, well educated and with enough opportunity in other career fields that a life on the beat had to be chosen out of conviction and passion for the work. She had perspective, having recently worked as part of the unit at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling that dealt with returning the remains of fallen Marines to their families. She is the daughter of a sergeant who killed himself the day after he returned home from the Iraq War in 2004. But it was in a quiet suburb in Northern Virginia on a domestic disturbance call that she met her death. Army Staff Sgt. Ronald Williams Hamilton, 32, had been fighting all day with his wife, Crystal, who finally called 911, police said. Guindon got the call. And when she arrived at the Hamiltons door, Crystal Hamilton was dead and Ronald Hamilton allegedly opened fire. Guindon was killed, and two other officers, Jesse Hempen, 31, and David McKeown, 33, were injured. Blue blood was spilled here because of something folks dont like to talk about, something that is politicized, marginalized and too often dismissed as a social issue: domestic violence. The story wasnt too different a few weeks ago in Abington, Md., where David Brian Evans, who has a long history of mental illness and who is suspected of shooting his ex-wife years ago allegedly killed two Harford County sheriffs deputies inside a Panera restaurant. And it all apparently began with mental illness and access to guns. [Witness describes chaotic Panera shooting that left two deputies dead] A police officer is killed in the line of duty about every 2 1/ 2 days in the United States, according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund. Last year, 124 officers were killed, according to the fund: 42 of them by gunfire; 52 in traffic accidents; 24 died of work-related illnesses, including heart attacks; and six died of other causes. Nine of the officers killed last year were women, which was more than double the four female officers killed in 2014. This year has been a deadly one for police officers, with 11 killed. At this time last year, only one had fallen in the line of duty. Who kills police? The FBI data on law enforcement officer deaths shows that between 2004 and 2013, white males were the most frequent killers of cops. Its no secret that police work is dangerous, and these men and women put their lives in peril every day. But anyone discussing #BlueLivesMatter has to acknowledge where nearly all the risks to police officers come from. Supporting police officers is about far more than a Facebook post, a tweet or a slogan. It means taking a serious look at the threats they confront daily and coming up with real solutions to minimize them. It may not fit into a tough-guy meme to say that true reform of our mental-health system would save police lives, but it would. So would better drug treatment. And taking on domestic violence on behalf of police officers doesnt sound sexy, but seven cops were killed last year responding to such calls. Want to talk guns? The states ranked among the highest for gun ownership by Guns and Ammo magazine Georgia, Louisiana and Texas also had the highest rates of officer deaths. Its no mystery why police officers are vocal about the recent legislation passed in Texas allowing guns on university campuses. They are afraid for their lives, too. We ask cops every day to be social workers, marriage counselors, psychiatrists, negotiators, teachers and friends. Yet, too often, the same people who ask this of police balk when asked to support the other people who are trying to do those jobs. Ashley Guindon was an accomplished, thoughtful woman. And an appropriate way to honor her sacrifice is to acknowledge that the work of law enforcement officers is nuanced, complex and requires an American partnership that is much deeper than simply taking sides along a thin blue line. Twitter: @petulad Baltimore Police Commissioner Kevin Davis said the city has stabilized since recording its deadliest year on record in 2015 and hopes increased community support in getting violent criminals off the streets will translate to further gains. Community support is an art form. Its not an exact science, but I certainly feel it, Davis said during a panel discussion on WMAR-TVs Square Off program with host Richard Sher that aired Sunday. It feels different in 2016, and Im hopeful its contagious, Davis said. Davis has been espousing community-oriented policing based on improved relationships with residents since he took over the department last summer. Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake (D) fired Daviss predecessor, Anthony W. Batts, in July after the death of 25-year-old Freddie Gray from injuries acquired in police custody in April, the rioting and looting that occurred after Grays funeral, and a surge in killings in the months that followed. The pace of violence continued after Davis took over, and there were 344 homicides in Baltimore by years end the most killings per capita on record and the first time homicides had topped 300 since 1999. The pace fell for the first time in January, when there were 14 homicides. It has ticked back up this month there had been 22 homicides this month as of Saturday afternoon but Davis said the city is back on the right track. Weve stabilized it. Were in a better place in 2016. Were not in a perfect place, but we know that public safety has a big role to play in economic development, a big role to play with small businesses, and were committed to be a part of it, he said in response to questions from Square Off panelists about Baltimores ability to attract new residents and businesses, given last years crime surge. The 2015 crisis has brought this community together, he said. Daviss approach to policing has been analyzed extensively since his appointment to the departments top spot, and this past week was no exception. After a speech he made Wednesday to a class of police academy trainees at Anne Arundel Community College in which he described the emotional response of a veteran officer as having helped spark property damage around Oriole Park at Camden Yards on April 25 he issued an email to department members apologizing. I do not believe the actions of any Baltimore police officer caused or created the violence and property destruction that occurred at Camden Yards, Davis said in the email. My remarks were intended to be constructive in an educational environment. I should have chosen my words more carefully. A 28-year-old man was arrested and charged in three separate sexual abuse incidents dating back nearly four years. Darius Nelson of Southeast Washington was charged with first degree sexual abuse and other charges. He was arrested and charged Friday. One of the incidents police said Nelson is believed to be involved in happened April 20, 2012, in the 2100 block of R Street SE. Nelson allegedly went into a basement apartment and physically and sexually assaulted a victim, according to police. Another incident happened Aug. 18, 2012 near Pennsylvania and Minnesota avenues in Southeast Washington around 4:37 a.m. Police said a victim was walking when a man armed with a knife approached. The suspect punched her in the face and forced her into an alley and sexually assaulted her, according to police. A third incident occurred around 11 p.m. on Sept. 18, 2013, in the 2200 block of Nicholson Street SE. Police said a victim was walking when she was approached from behind by a suspect and forced into an alley. Police said the victim was robbed and sexually assaulted. A Prince Georges County Police officer was suspended over the weekend after he was charged with two counts of second-degree assault in a domestic-related incident. Police were called to a home on Rose View Court in Upper Marlboro on Feb. 26 where the mother of Officer Bashua Olasehas 7-month old son alleged that he attempted to take the child from her home without her permission, according to charging documents. Olaseha, who was off-duty at the time, put the child in his car and attempted to leave, charging documents state. Olaseha, 29, punched the woman in the stomach before she was able to remove the child from the car, court documents state. As the woman fled carrying the boy in her arms, Olaseha pushed her, and both the mother and child fell to the ground, police said. The woman was taken to the hospital for cuts and bruises and released, police said. She had filed a protective order against Olaseha the day before. The department said it is conducting an internal investigation and has suspended Olasehas police powers. Olaseha is a patrol officer and has worked for the department for three years. Joe and Betsy Stone, part of the estimated 23 percent of religiously unaffiliated Americans, together at their home in Springfield, Va. (Bill O'Leary/The Washington Post) Joe Stone is part of an enormous but invisible voting constituency. A troubled atheist, the retired Virginia accountant calls himself spiritual, celebrates Christmas and defines religious as the need to do good. He says organized religion Christianity as well as Islam has gone off the deep end and political candidates who emphasize the rightness of a certain faith turn him off. At the same time, Stone calls himself religiously open-minded. When Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders told a New Hampshire town hall last month that religion is a way of saying all people are connected, Stone agreed. He is speaking directly to me, he said. Stone is part of a massive group of Americans who reject any label or affiliation to describe their faith. At 23 percent of the U.S. population, this left-leaning group called Nones are the Democratic parallel to the GOPs white evangelicals except without organization, PACs, leadership and a clear agenda. They do, however, have one big expectation of political candidates: Be ethical, and go light on the God talk. The Nones impact will be tested on Super Tuesday, when multiple states with large unaffiliated populations hold contests: Virginia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Vermont and Colorado. So far, Sanders has a large edge among Nones. A huge group that skews under 40, white and non-immigrant, the Nones want politicians to tone it down not because theyve made some final determination about God the vast majority are believers but because they are fed up with religious institutions they see as corrupt and discriminatory. And in the process, they are rewriting the countrys political discourse on morality. Experts say the country is just beginning to feel Nones political power, in good part because their turnout has been low at about 12 percent unsurprising for a disproportionately young group. But that is likely to change, with early research suggesting they are not inclined to become more religious as they grow older. Political scientist David Campbell, who focuses on religion, compared the Nones of today to evangelicals of the 1970s who grew in number and slowly became a massive, organized political force. The Fix's Aaron Blake sets up the stakes for Republican and Democratic presidential candidates on Super Tuesday. (Peter Stevenson/The Washington Post) You might say we are awaiting the emergence of a secular Jerry Falwell, said Campbell, who chairs the political science department at the University of Notre Dame. With their socially liberal viewpoints, Nones will pull the Democrats to the left which is already happening with Sanders, said Mark Rozell, dean of the government and policy school at George Mason University and author of multiple books on religion and politics. It will make a profound change in American politics in the long run. Put up a candidate who challenges peoples right to love who they want and make decisions about their own lifestyles, and see what happens among the unaffiliated. A lot of other issues go to the back burner, Rozell said. If Sanders or Democratic rival Hillary Clinton start talking too much about religion as the race veers South, among Nones that would be dangerous, he said. We need a revolution Nones talk about tolerance, fairness, choice and making the world a better place. In interviews some describe their worldview as being more authentically holy than people who cite Scripture and denominational labels. My girlfriend said, Greta, youre the best Christian I know that doesnt go to church, said Greta Clark, 81, of Youngstown, Ohio, an agnostic who says her religion is do no wrong. Stone says he has an answer for Christians who are skeptical of Sanderss bio: Wait a minute, Jesus was a Jewish socialist. In addition to their skepticism about religious institutions, Nones share anger at secular institutions they feel are immoral, interviews show. Their political priorities include reducing big moneys influence on politics, raising wages and making college affordable. They do not trust government to police personal morality. We need a revolution at this point because corruption is so vast, said Cheryl, a 43-year-old chief financial officer from Atlanta. She spoke on condition that her last name not be used because she said the stigma of being not religious in the South would harm her career and her child. She doesnt like it when candidates talk about religion, but it bothers her less if it seems like lip service evidence that they probably wont apply dogma to public policy. If theyre saying it just to get elected, thats more okay, she said. It doesnt bother me because Ive done the same thing, tried to pass, she said. I have no idea whether there is a God and I dont think thats an answerable question. Before she got married, however, she put atheist in her dating profile instead of agnostic only to turn off fundamentalist Christians who might misinterpret her as open to their belief. Although most evangelicals and Catholics say terrorism is their top voting priority, Nones say theirs is the economy, according to a Washington Post-ABC News poll in December. The major check on Nones political power is their lack of group awareness. This cohort is as large as evangelicals, but very poorly organized, and they dont have the discipline or political reflex. But you cant tell me campaigns arent thinking about them, especially the Democrats, said Jacques Berlinerblau, a Georgetown University sociologist who has written several books about the role of religion in politics. Democrats, he said, have to straddle the Nones, most of whom feel candidates are talking too much about their faith and prayer, and the rest of the Democratic faith coalition which includes progressive Jews, Catholics and Protestants who dont mind it as long as it doesnt get overwrought. A quarter of President Obamas voters in 2012 were religiously unaffiliated by far the largest faith group in his coalition. Perhaps in consideration of his religiously independent supporters, the president gave the first inaugural nod in his 2008 address to nonbelievers. At the moment Nones are breaking hard for Sanders, a secular Jew who seems ambivalent about how to portray his faith. He has said he is not religious and chose to spend last Rosh Hashanah a major Jewish holiday speaking to evangelicals at Liberty University. When he won in New Hampshire last month, becoming the first American Jew to win a presidential primary, Sanders didnt mention that fact in his victory speech, instead calling himself the son of a Polish immigrant. However, last fall when The Washington Post ran an article entitled: Bernie Sanders: Our first non-religious president? the Sanders campaign quickly emailed the reporter to point out a September interview about Pope Francis in which the senator referred to a belief in God . . . that requires me to do all that I can to follow the Golden Rule. A delicate balance Mike McCurry, a communications consultant to candidates and faith groups who served as press secretary to Bill Clinton, said top Democratic advisers to campaigns just dont get the role of faith groups including the Nones. They dont see it as a political constituency to mobilize, McCurry said. That said, its a delicate balance. [Nones] want to hear about your values and what gives you a moral stake, but they dont want an agenda thats forced down their throat. In fact, the Nones are a complex and sometimes contradictory group. They believe in God but on their own terms. They dont particularly want to hear about religion, but they arent anti-religion. Clark said she doesnt believe in confession, doesnt think she believes in God, considers herself a Christian in some ways, thinks candidates shouldnt mention religion and is disgusted by houses of worship fancied up with icons and statues, big churches built from poor peoples money. But she and her husband sent their now-grown sons to Catholic school. To her, the main election issues are things like roads, bridges and clean water. The issue of water contamination is a disgrace. Of Sanderss statement that religion means were all in this together, Clark said: Ive got to agree with him there. But he has the young people all worked up, they think theyre going to get something for nothing. It dont work that way. Of anyone, she said she prefers Sanders, but she is undecided. Stone sees in Sanders a glimpse of his youth a time when religion seemed less angry, less divided, when his folks could buy a home in Massachusetts for $8,000, when the system didnt seem rigged. More recently, he and his wife, Betsy, both accountants retired reluctantly, more or less. Not that hes complaining or bitter, and he has lots of positive things to say about religious relatives and pastors hes known. Stone even regrets a bit not raising his children to be more religious, if only so that when religion and Scripture come up in conversation, theyd be able to more knowledgeably talk or debate. Joe and Betsy Stone, part of the estimated 23 percent of religiously unaffiliated Americans, are seen in their home in Springfield, Va. (Bill O'Leary/The Washington Post) Stone sees Sanders as serious about getting money out of politics. He said he trusts Sanders when the senator talks about his spirituality. He even trusts Clinton a Methodist his age when he heard her tell an Iowa voter: I am a person of faith, I am a Christian, I am a Methodist. But he wishes there was no need for candidates to state their religion. I wish we didnt have to talk about religion in politics. This is not a religious race, Stone said. He grew up in a big religious family but feels church has become arrogant and intolerant. We should be a spiritual country, meaning we should endeavor to have a good government in the eyes of whatever God you feel is right, or in the eyes of no God. Christianity has become too broken into sects and intolerant, its split up more, he said. Back then Muslims were peaceful happy people and, for whatever reason, they got angry. Religions have gotten wacky, Stone said. Morality comes from another place. Its a chicken or egg thing. The morality came before the stories of religion. A bunch of little things Alexis Echevarria, 20, calls herself a None because I dont want to label myself. I believe in a bunch of little things, other religions, including the Catholicism to which her family holds fast and in which she was raised. But in recent years she has started questioning some church teachings, doesnt like labels and sees her peer group in Katy, Tex., outside Houston, as split on religion half her friends are religious and half are not. She values choice, whether that comes to whether to go to church, accept abortion or homosexuality or to even call yourself a believer. Im open to everything and everyone, Echevarria said, including candidates who talk, or dont talk, about their faith. She has heard very very little about candidates religion, except Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump talking about religion and immigration, which is baloney, she said. In truth, she said, she has been paying limited attention to the campaign, except that she knows she likes Sanders for her first-ever presidential vote. The senators talk about raising the minimum wage and making college more affordable would be awesome. Her feelings about Sanders reminds her of the ones she had about Mitt Romney, the 2012 Republican presidential nominee. Sanders seems like a genuine guy, and so did Romney, she said. Asked how she can tell if a candidate is speaking genuinely about their faith, Echevarrias sunny, non-judgmental vocabulary shifted. I was told candidates lie, she said. Im guarded with everyone. Open, but guarded. Reseacher Scott Clement contributed to this report. Emily Collinson, 21, a senior studying international relations at American University in Washington, likes that Bernie Sanders is old enough to have participated in the civil rights movement in the 1960s. (Astrid Riecken/For The Washington Post) At 74, Bernie Sanders he of the mussed hair, frumpy clothes and grouchy demeanor might not seem an obvious choice as a shining political knight for the millennial generation. America, after all, is the birthplace of the 1960s mantra Dont trust anyone over 30. Even now, many Americans consider old people uncool at best or even worse, irrelevant. Yet for millennials the generation roughly in their late teens to mid-30s that attitude is so yesterday. Across the country, young voters have shown an overwhelming preference for Sanders, helping to narrow significantly the gap between him and Hillary Clinton in the Democratic primary race and in one case to hand him a decisive victory. In exit polls in Iowa and New Hampshire, and in entrance polls in Nevada, more than 80 percent of 18- to 29-year-olds supported Sanders, who if he won would be the oldest person ever to take office as president. To a generation hobbled by student debt and low earning power, Sanderss talk of free education and redistribution of wealth has struck a chord. And his age? Its not only not a deterrent, it is an attraction, imbuing him with wisdom and perspective and connecting him to historical events that millennials admire. Hes the grandfather that gets it, said Dash Radosti, 20, who is studying public policy and finance at American University in Washington. And he doesnt try to hide what he is. Hes a very authentic person; that especially resonates with young people. Supporters cheer for Sen. Bernie Sanders during a rally at the Scope arena in February in Norfolk, Va on Feb. 23. (Jonathan Newton/The Washington Post) For a generation that has embraced homemade everything from bicycles to furniture to cured meat authenticity is key. Young adults are looking for the #nofilter approach, said Christine Whelan, a professor of consumer science at the University of Wisconsin at Madison, referring to Instagram photos that havent been touched up. They want to know that its real. At the same time, they are angry about soaring housing and education costs and limited economic prospects. If Barack Obama in 2008 was for them a symbol of hope, Sanders is a symbol of their disillusionment. Hes grumpy, and theyre grumpy, too, Whelan said. We would think its odd that they would rally around a grumpy old man, but maybe its not; maybe thats their form of counterculture statement. In fact, many say Sanderss age gives him an edge. Who doesnt love the grumpy grandfather thats been on the right side of the fight for decades? said Bennett Noonan, 30, a tech-support worker in Marion, Iowa. His age definitely lends to a certain endearing persona. As social media has encouraged young people to become politically active, the idea of electing someone who once walked alongside the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. also holds a certain romance. Hes been on the forefront of issues like the civil rights movement, said 21-year-old Emily Collinson, an international relations major at American University. Students are rallying around social justice now, and hes really the embodiment of it, and while were new to that movement, hes been in it for a while. After all, from where they sit, electing younger leaders hasnt gone so well. Weve been sort of accustomed to these candidates in their 40s, but now were going the total opposite way; were going old, said Tyler Mackie, 31, a fashion and Internet entrepreneur in St. Louis. Student debts climbing ridiculously high, social networks are not in place, there is no such thing as a corporate ladder anymore; its more like a corporate zipline. It isnt working, and if it isnt working, you try something else. One thing that works for Sanders is that he defies conventional ideas of how a candidate looks and acts. He has made no attempt to spruce up his wardrobe or tone down his old-school Brooklyn accent; to young supporters, that makes him more trustworthy. Ive seen a lot of memes on the Internet where you get that crazy psycho guy who warns of impending doom, but in fact that guy turns out to be on the money when everyones discounted him, Mackie said. I think a lot of people in my generation look back on Back to the Future in which a tousled and eccentric scientist helps out a high school boy. While he would never advise any other man to dress like Sanders, Mackie said, it is the perfect look for Bernie. His shirt is billowy, his hair is unkempt, and you look at his jacket very heavily shoulder-padded, and theyre falling off his shoulders. I see a correlation between that and the Internet culture all these start-ups where you can literally wear anything you want to the office, but theres the perception that they work even harder because theyre not focused on those trivial things. I would never tell Bernie, Bernie, you ought to clean it up. Hes got that disheveled thing going, but he speaks the truth, and thats cool. . . . I think if he were buttoned up it would hurt him, it would eat into his message. Getting behind an older candidate may also be less of a stretch for a generation of young people who tend to be tighter with their parents than previous generations were. They enjoy interacting with their grandparents and sharing new things, and showing them how to use the computer and having intellectual conversations with people with whom they have a large age gap, Collinson said. They also put more time into helping them: Nearly one-quarter of Americas adult caregivers are between 18 and 34. [Self-absorbed millennials? Not the ones caring for their elders] Perhaps nowhere is millennials embrace of the old more evident than in their love of all things retro, from vinyl records to mountain-man beards. A No. 1 rap song a couple of years ago Thrift Shop even extolled geezer chic: I wear your granddads clothes/ I look incredible. Weve seen so much shoddy crap come into our country, Mackie said. I do think that there is a harkening back to a time when things were made better. A sort of Make America Great Again, Bernie-style. Sometimes, to quote the millennial bard Justin Timberlake, what goes around comes around. Sanders and his young supporters are so far apart in age that, in a sense, they converge. Millennials dont associate the word socialist with the Iron Curtain; to them it evokes Scandinavia, with its short workdays and generous parental leave. Sanders, for his part, dates to a more socialist period in the United States, when welfare programs were implemented and veterans went to college on the G.I. Bill. To Bethany Vance, 20, a sophomore at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Sanders is more of a kindred spirit than baby boomers are. Someone whos 60 looks at me and says, Why are you complaining? she said. Prices have gone up. They dont see that, but he does. . . . A lot of people feel that someone so old would be out of date, but everything hes saying is timeless. But what about the stamina required to be president? The job is famous for turning peoples hair gray what would it do to someone whose hair is already white, someone who would be 83 at the end of a second term? His supporters shrug. Senator Sanderss ability to work through a national campaign schedule and get back to the Senate for votes has been a promising display of his resilience and tenacity despite his age, Noonan said. Perhaps in an era when the Rolling Stones have been touring for more than 50 years, the idea of an energetic septuagenarian in the White House is not so outlandish. Even though hes pretty old, he has a lot of youth to him, said Britta Galanis, a 20-year-old Sanders supporter. Collinson agreed, adding, That whole discourse of Sanders being too old for the job feels a little bit ageist to me. Two forces of nature tornadoes and Bill Clinton were touching down in Virginia. Gov. Terry McAuliffe (D), torn between the two, went with the storms. He chose to spend Wednesday night monitoring deadly twisters instead of attending a rally with a former president and dear friend who had come to Richmond days ahead of a primary crucial to his wifes presidential hopes. Its not the first time that McAuliffe has been out of sync with Hillary Clinton. His recent gun compromise with Republicans and support for offshore drilling and the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade deal have put McAuliffe at odds with some of her positions, complicating his ability to rally liberal Democrats to her cause. Supporters of Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont have tried to make political hay out of those differences, as have Republicans, who would like to see Clinton damaged by a less-than-decisive victory over Sanders in Virginias Democratic primary on Super Tuesday. They say Clinton, while wooing the partys liberal base, has leaned so far to the left that she is out of step with one of her best-known cheerleaders. But there is another explanation, one offered even by some GOP critics who once believed that McAuliffe wanted to be a swing-state governor only to help put another Clinton in the White House. They say McAuliffe is maturing in the job and growing moderate as a result. Terry McAuliffe has figured out being governor of Virginia is an actual job, and he likes it, said one Republican strategist, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to make what was, for him, a painfully frank admission: Terry McAuliffe is not a terrible governor. Administration officials say McAuliffe has always put the needs of Virginia before political considerations. Its an approach that can still pay dividends, because a governors endorsement might carry more weight if he is popular than if hes in lock step with whomever hes backing. If you do whats in the best interests of Virginians, he will be rewarded and so will his friend Hillary, said Brian Moran, McAuliffes secretary of public safety and homeland security. You do your job as governor, and the rest will take care of itself. There is no question that the governor wants to deliver Virginia for Clinton on Tuesday and in November, if she wins the nomination. He has spent most of his adult life in the orbit of the Clintons, as a fundraiser, personal friend and political adviser. Were going to shock the world again on March 1 with a big victory for Hillary here in Virginia, McAuliffe said at the opening of her Richmond office in February. In Virginia, Clinton was up by 27 points in a new poll last week. She made two stops in Virginia on Monday, a move that looked like an effort to rack up a statement victory, not stave off a loss, said Bob Holsworth, a former Virginia Commonwealth University political scientist. [Poll: Clinton, Trump hold big leads in Virginia] Outside of attending a few rallies, much of what McAuliffe has done for Clinton has remained largely below the radar. He has built up the state partys infrastructure and regularly conferred with both Clintons and Robby Mook, manager of Hillary Clintons campaign and of McAuliffes 2013 campaign for governor. At this point, his role is more about mechanics, said Jennifer Duffy, senior editor for the Cook Political Report. Virginias pretty familiar territory for the campaign, especially Robby. But obviously, theres no bigger Hillary Clinton booster than McAuliffe. Some Clinton allies have expressed concern that the effort in Virginia has been too laid-back until recently, noting that rank-and-file lawmakers were asked to endorse Clinton only about a week ago. Theres no reason the governor couldnt have a political person asking us for use of our email lists, asking us to appear places, asking us to endorse before February, said a Democratic legislator, who spoke on the condition of anonymity in order not to offend McAuliffe. I think shell win, but we should have been working real hard to maximize her delegate count and lower his percentage. But Stephen J. Farnsworth, a University of Mary Washington political scientist, said McAuliffe has been understandably focused on governing. The governor, at the moment, has a very full plate between the weather, touring in Virginia this week and the controversies that come up during the legislative session, Farnsworth said. Nows not the best time to hit the road day after day on a political campaign. As hes gone about governing, McAuliffe has sometimes found himself compromising with Republicans. The man who ran for office bragging about his F rating from the National Rifle Association just struck a deal with the group. The candidate who vowed not to sign a budget that did not expand Medicaid under the Affordable Care Act is poised to approve his third. The recipient of $1.6 million in campaign cash from NextGen Climate Action Committee supports offshore drilling. [McAuliffe will join coalition pushing for off-shore drilling] McAuliffe has always cast himself as a blend of partisan stalwart and pragmatic dealmaker, similar to Bill Clinton, who made deals with the GOP on welfare and trade, and Hillary Clinton, who bills herself as a progressive who gets things done. Hes one of those politicians who would say hes not going to let the perfect stand in the way of the good, Holsworth said. But with Republicans in Richmond dug in against Medicaid and McAuliffe in general, it took the governor two years to nail his first big legislative deal the gun compromise. The legislation, which McAuliffe signed into law Friday, provided a stark contrast with Hillary Clinton, who has been running hard against the NRA. Her campaign did not respond to requests for comment on the bills. [McAuliffe signs gun compromise into law] The legislation expands the right to carry concealed weapons in exchange for tighter restrictions on domestic abusers and voluntary background checks at gun shows. Some gun-control advocates called the compromise a betrayal. McAuliffe said it was a sensible compromise on a tough issue. [Five things that (kind of) explain McAuliffes gun deal with the GOP] Moran, who negotiated the gun deal for the administration, was at the governors side on Wednesday night as McAuliffe bowed out of his appearance with Bill Clinton to monitor the storm from a situation room on Capitol Square. The next day, McAuliffe and Moran took a bumpy helicopter tour to survey damage from the storms, which killed four people in the state. As the storms approached, McAuliffe seemed to scrap his political plans with no hesitation, said Tucker Martin, a Republican consultant who was the spokesman for McAuliffes predecessor, former governor Robert F. McDonnell (R). Seems like an easy decision, Martin said, but one that he said politicians often get wrong. The real test will come in the fall, if Clinton is in a competitive general election, he said. If we get into October . . . and if its close, we will see how Terry McAuliffe is as a surrogate and governor in a state one of his closest friends must have, Martin said. But were not there yet. Virginia Sen. A. Donald McEachin (D-Henrico) has filed paperwork to run for Congress, hoping to take the seat currently held by Rep. Randy J. Forbes (R). As I said all along Im very interested in the fourth congressional seat, but right now Im busy doing the peoples business here at the General Assembly, McEachin said through a spokeswoman. I will have a lot more to say about Congress right after we adjourn. A federal court, having ruled that Virginias current congressional map unconstitutionally packs black voters into one district, imposed a map this year that makes Forbess constituency far more African American and Democratic. Forbes has decided not to contest the new seat, instead aiming to replace retiring Rep. Scott Rigell (R) in the coastal 2nd Congressional District. McEachin, an African American lawyer from Richmond, chairs the Democratic caucus in the state Senate. No other candidate has come forward to run in the June 14 primary. Astronaut Scott Kelly went ape during his year-long mission on the International Space Station, thanks to a gorilla costume sent to him by his brother, former astronaut Mark Kelly. (NASA VIA ASSOCIATED PRESS) After nearly a year in orbit, Americas space-endurance champ is about to return to Earth and he cant wait. Astronaut Scott Kelly held his final news conference from the International Space Station last week; he is set to leave the station Tuesday. Kelly told reporters that space is a hardship environment in which you never feel perfectly normal. From a hygiene perspective, he feels as if he has been camping in the woods for a year. From a physical point of view, though, he feels pretty good. The toughest part? Being isolated from loved ones, a situation that would pose even more of a challenge for astronauts sent to Mars. Despite all this, Kelly said he could go another 100 days or even another year if I had to. If all goes as planned, Kelly will have spent 340 consecutive days aloft, a U.S. record. The world record for a single spaceflight is 438 days, set by a Russian cosmonaut in the 1990s. Even that would pale in comparison with a Mars expedition, expected to last two to three years. Scientists hope to learn much from Kellys mission to pave the way to Mars in another two decades; they also will collect data from his Russian roommate for the year, Mikhail Kornienko. Kornienko and Kelly were scheduled to ride a Russian capsule back to Earth, landing in Kazakhstan. Then Kelly was to be hustled home to Houston. The 52-year-old astronaut said he cant wait to jump into his pool and dine at a real table with friends and family. Kelly rocketed away last March on a research-packed mission, leaving behind two daughters and his girlfriend. He lightened things up recently by donning a gorilla suit a gag gift from his identical twin, retired astronaut Mark Kelly and cavorting through the station. The brothers hope to go fishing in Alaska once things settle down. Like the Oscars, but with explosions. Thats how Popular Mechanics introduces its second annual list of great technological achievements in 2015 movies. Youve already seen the Oscars; heres a sample from the magazines incredibly special effects. Best use of an iPhone: The indie hit Tangerine, about the lives of two transgender Los Angeles prostitutes, was shot completely on an iPhone 5s. Filmmaker Sean Baker, who put an anamorphic adapter lens on the camera to take advantage of L.A.s very specific light, said he valued the smartphones size: You are one step away from having a hidden camera. Best stunt: The underwater scene in Mission: Impossible Rogue Nation. In one continuous six-minute take, Tom Cruise searches for a computer chip in an underground tank of water. Computer-generated effects enhanced some dangerous elements, but the central stunt Cruise holding his breath for several minutes was real. We hired a world champion at holding his breath to train him, stunt coordinator Wade Eastman said. Its all mental. Most-specific sand: For The Martian, production designer Arthur Max got images from the Mars rover Curiosity, then consulted with NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory and the Johnson Space Center. They took samples of stone and sand from Jordan and mixed them with a variety of soils and gravels from Hungary to get something that looks like whats really on Mars. They made 2,500 cubic tons of sand a volume so great it took four weeks just to load onto the set. When President Obama called for a new moonshot to cure cancer in his State of the Union speech, I took it personally. This effort could take decades and billions of dollars. Is it worth it? I will never know. Last year at age 52, after an out-of-the-blue seizure, I was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. My life span can now be measured in months, and the likelihood of my living long enough to see any positive outcome from the moonshot is slim. But 1 in 4 of us will be struck by some form of cancer, and it is the second-leading cause of death in the United States. As a result, finding a way to end the pain and suffering and reducing cancers astronomical medical costs and lost productivity seem worth it to this patient. Until June 3, 2015, I was living a typical life in the Washington suburbs: commuting to a job that I loved at Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, an organization that provides vaccines to children in developing countries. I spent free time at home with my wife and our three children, went to the movies, ate at restaurants, attended religious services and looked forward to a friends party or a vacation. That all ended just as I was getting ready to head home from work that day. Thats when I suffered two massive brain seizures, the first of which was so powerful that it tore the tendons from the bone in my left shoulder. A colleague tells me that I groaned and slumped down a wall. Another colleague called 911, probably saving my life. Doctors later told me few people survive a seizure as powerful as the one that shook my body. And I had a second one on the way to the hospital. Jonathan Stern with his wife, Karen Paul-Stern, at the 2014 White House Hanukkah party. I constantly wonder when my death will arrive, he writes, yet I count myself lucky. (Courtesy of Jonathan Stern) It took more than a week for doctors at George Washington University Hospital to determine that the cause of the seizures was glioblastoma, an aggressive brain cancer that most likely killed Vice President Bidens 46-year-old son, Beau, last year and Sen. Ted Kennedy in 2009. My new life span While there are experimental treatments being developed for glioblastoma, a person with this killer has an average life span of about 12 to 18 months. I have now lived a little more than eight months with it, although my life is utterly changed from what it once was. I am no longer able to work or live self-sufficiently, as even getting up to use a bathroom is fatiguing. My balance is poor, and I have fallen down several times. Using a computer makes me dizzy. I rarely leave my family room or my house. I am a naturally optimistic person, but I constantly wonder when my death will arrive. Yet in several key ways I count myself lucky because of what I like to think of as miracles, or fortuitous occurrences, that have given me the luxury which many with brain cancer dont get of choosing how to spend these last months. Miracle 1: The brain seizures saved my life. My doctors suspect that my cancer grew from nothing into a large tumor in a matter of weeks in May 2015, and it was pressure from it on my brain that caused the seizures. But the seizures saved my life because the cancer might not otherwise have been identified in time for me to undergo the radiation and chemotherapy that may have added some months to my life. When I was brought to George Washington University Hospital, I was in so much pain that I was put into a medically induced coma. The doctors did not yet know why I had suffered the seizures, making proper treatment unclear. The doctors told my wife, Karen, that they did not know if I would be able to speak again, that I might awake in a vegetative state or severely impaired. But when I awoke three days later I was amazingly myself in cognition, clarity of thought and personality. Over the next two weeks, I underwent multiple MRI scans, brain scans and other tests to figure out why I had had the seizures. Bleeding in my brain made it difficult for the scans to show the tumors the large one and two very small ones connected to it. The focus at this point was on surgically repairing my left shoulder: My rotator cuff had been torn apart and the humerus shattered. Treatment on my brain surgery to remove the largest tumor was being deferred. It was not yet certain that I had cancer a biopsy was needed and the bleeding needed to clear on its own. Time of the essence An oncologist friend took my records to the cancer center at MedStar Georgetown University Hospital, where senior oncologists determined that I probably had glioblastoma. Time was of the essence, they said. They recommended removing the large tumor before it destroyed my brain. The smaller ones were inoperable but slow-growing. I was transferred to Georgetown, and a few days later a neurosurgeon removed about 98 percent of the large tumor, which meant I now had more time and the possibility of other treatments. All told, I was in a hospital bed for a month. Despite facing my own mortality, one thing that kept me optimistic was the love and support of family and friends, who would sit with me for hours every day, sometimes sleeping next to me through the night. I was home within three days of the brain surgery. My discharge July 3 one month after the seizures hit felt like my own Independence Day. Miracle 2: The placement of my tumor may have been the difference between life and death, sight and blindness, movement and paralysis. My tumor was in an easily accessible place for surgery, on the right front side of my head, just above the ear. This meant not only that surgery was possible the tumor was near the surface, away from my brain stem and other vital areas but also that I had a chance at survival for more than a few months and, I hope, for a lot longer than that. It also meant radiation treatment could avoid parts of my brain that, if damaged, could leave me impaired perhaps blind or paralyzed. Some patients are forced to either accept or reject radiation that will extend their life but leave them blind. Radiation in my brain About two weeks after my brain surgery, I began a six-week course of daily blasts of radiation. Each lasted five to 10 minutes as I lay on a table with a robot arm hovering over me, my head held in place by a customized mask. I could sense the radiation in my brain, swirling after each treatment. Georgetown is one of the few hospitals in the Mid-Atlantic area that has a CyberKnife, a device that uses beams of high-dose radiation on a tumor. For the final week of my radiation series, I got an hour-long daily CyberKnife treatment. I imagined it was like using a delicate paintbrush to fill missing spots after painting a wall with a roller. The goal in cancer treatment is to kill off 100 percent of cancer cells, but my oncologist told me the reality is that only about 90 to 95 percent of glioblastoma cells are destroyed. Even one remaining cancerous cell can grow quickly into the tumor that will kill me. The protocol is to put patients like me back on chemo (by pill) to keep lingering cancer cells as weak as possible. I now continue to take chemo under different dosages and protocols to try to keep the cancer in check. Miracle 3: Early in my treatment, I experienced excruciating pain in my left leg, a condition called deep vein thrombosis. The blood clots of DVT can be life-threatening if they travel to the lungs, brain or heart. DVT is not uncommon among people who have surgery, are being treated for cancer or are immobilized. In my case, I hit the trifecta. The typical treatment for DVT is blood thinners. But because I had a brain bleed from my seizures, those drugs would be too risky. My only recourse was to keep my legs elevated and wait for my body to dissolve the clots, a process that typically takes months. I kept my legs elevated nearly 24 hours per day. But I also did something my late grandfather, Rabbi Baruch (Rabinowitz) Robbins urged if I ever was in extreme need. I am a ninth-generation descendant of Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov, the 18th-century founder of the Hasidic movement of Judaism, and I am descended from other dynastic lines as well. Given this lineage, my grandfather told me, I could draw on the collected good deeds of our ancestors in asking for intercession. A religious person, I did this by praying nightly. Belief and the brain You might say that the brain is a powerful organ and that belief has the ability to affect the body. Or you might say that the good deeds of my ancestors had an impact. But I went from excruciating pain and swelling in my leg to no pain or swelling within two weeks. The doctors said they were amazed at the speed. I have had no problem with blood clots since. Today, I am officially disabled, according to Social Security, and I almost always have to use a wheelchair to get around. Most days, I sit alone and read. It is a dull existence, but I am not in pain, and friends visit frequently. Most important, I get to spend important final time with my wife and children, who have been godsends to me, though my illness has complicated and severely affected our family life. In particular, my wife has had to make huge compromises in her work. It has been hard for all of us. I am fortunate in having insurance to cover most of my extraordinary cancer-related expenses, which I speculate have been hundreds of thousands of dollars so far. I have a generous and compassionate employer in Gavi, which has kept me as an employee since I became ill and has provided generous disability coverage. When President Obama revealed his moonshot initiative against cancer, I was electrified. While it wont help me, I felt happy for other families that will face what I have encountered, and the initiative gives me hope for their futures. And so I hope this effort will be embraced and funded generously. If it is successful, then a diagnosis of glioblastoma may no longer be a death sentence. Families may have a much better outcome than those whose lives are torn apart today. Let us help make the moonshot a blindingly daring and aggressive effort that will tear down the hopelessness that surrounds a cancer diagnosis today and pave the way for more effective treatments and better outcomes tomorrow. Stern lives in Takoma Park, Md. His wife, children and many friends, colleagues and others will gather at Freedom Plaza on May 1 to participate in the Race for Hope to raise money for, and awareness of, brain cancer research. Ithaca Mayor Svante Myrick speaks during at the U.S. Conference of Mayors Winter Meeting in Washington. Myrick wants his city to become the first in the U.S. to offer heroin users a safe, controlled place to shoot up. (Cliff Owen/AP) A proposal by the mayor of Ithaca, N.Y., to consider allowing heroin users to shoot up under medical supervision has divided drug-policy experts, with some hailing it as an innovative approach and others rejecting it as a step toward legalization. Mayor Svante Myrick announced the idea last week as one of several proposals to address a wave of opioid addiction. Myrick also wants to adopt a strategy that sends low-level drug offenders to treatment instead of jail and to help at-risk teens learn work skills. Myricks interest in opening the nations first supervised injection site has attracted the most praise and criticism. Such facilities, which already operate in Canada, Australia and other countries, would allow users to shoot up under the supervision of a nurse, who would deliver an antidote in case of an overdose. Myrick also foresees offering clean syringes and access to treatment and recovery programs. The idea faces significant legal and political hurdles. Myrick said the city could petition the state to declare heroin addiction an epidemic, which would allow the injection site to open. Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo (D) has yet to weigh in on Myricks idea. Kevin Sabet, a drug-policy adviser to three presidents, said injection sites could be a precursor to efforts to fully legalize drugs such as heroin. Other critics said the priority should be more treatment programs. The goal here should be getting people off drugs, not doing what we can to make it easy for people to continue to do them, said David Evans, an adviser to the group Drug Free America. The Drug Policy Alliance, which opposes taking a law-enforcement approach to drug use, said Myricks plan should be a blueprint for other cities. We are in the middle of a very publicized heroin and opioid epidemic, said Kassandra Frederique, the groups New York director. She said it is time to consider policies that promote saving peoples lives over stigma and shame. Myricks plan has the support of the local prosecutor, District Attorney Gwen Wilkinson. But Ithaca Police Chief John Barber said he is wary of the idea. After losing sight in both of her eyes, Vickie Drakeford attended classes at the Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind to learn how to navigate her surroundings again. Instructor Karen Levin assists Drakeford in the kitchen using some techniques she learned during a cooking class. (Jayne Orenstein/The Washington Post) After losing sight in both of her eyes, Vickie Drakeford attended classes at the Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind to learn how to navigate her surroundings again. Instructor Karen Levin assists Drakeford in the kitchen using some techniques she learned during a cooking class. (Jayne Orenstein/The Washington Post) Taught to be fearless in the kitchen by watching Julia Child on television back in the 1960s, Priscilla Elfrey is no slouch when it comes to cooking, from classic French cheese souffles to West Indian callalloo, and she especially loves preparing the pasta dishes that she fell in love with while traveling across Italy alone when she was 60. But when she was recently declared legally blind as a result of macular degeneration, she switched from boiling handmade pasta to pan-frying gnocchi. I have very poor depth perception, she explains. Im concerned I might accidentally put my hand into a pot of boiling water so we dont really eat spaghetti anymore. Priscilla Elfrey is my mother, and on a recent visit back home to Cocoa Beach, Fla., I was surprised to find out that shes no longer boiling pasta. Watching my mom who raised me on a well-worn edition of Larousse Gastronomique make any concessions in the kitchen was startling, but this is a woman with enough technical know-how to still turn out delicious meals. Its certainly not a disappointment to find freshly pan-fried gnocchi on the plate. [Handy objects for the kitchen, whether you find it hard to see or not] But for many people without good vision, navigating a kitchen can be a daunting prospect that can dramatically affect daily living. According to Brandon Cox, former senior director of rehabilitation services at Columbia Lighthouse for the Blind, or CLB, people who can feed themselves have better chances of staying healthy and succeeding in other ways, whether its traveling alone to medical appointments or finding meaningful employment. Our goal is to create taxpayers, he says. Considering that 70 percent of working-age blind adults are unemployed, that is potentially a lot of taxpayers. The National Federation of the Blind estimates that as many as 10 million Americans are blind or visually impaired. That number is expected to double over the next 30 years as baby boomers age. Organizations such as CLB, which serves people in the Washington area, are trying to help with hands-on courses that get people with low vision back into the kitchen through a combination of commonsense techniques and cookware designed to help with once-ordinary tasks that have become tricky, such as mixing cookie dough and boiling pasta. [Heres how to protect your vision as you age] Alvon Smith, a 57-year-old District resident with vision loss resulting from diabetes, was encouraged by his doctor to sign up for a two-week CLB class in December. By the eighth day he was pulling a batch of oatmeal chocolate chip cookies out of the oven, the first cookies hed ever baked. Smith refers to baking as a woman thing, but his teacher, Karen Levin, chides him gently as she nibbles on a sample still warm from the oven: You can say that if you like, Smitty, but those are some good cookies. Levin knows that those cookies represent much more than just a tasty snack as she guides Smith who lives in a world of light and shadow through the various steps of baking, from spooning dry ingredients into brightly colored measuring cups to spacing dollops of dough onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment paper. As a vision rehabilitation therapist, its Levins job to help people who have become visually impaired feel that they have better control over their lives even while living with a disability. Based at an apartment in the Fort Totten neighborhood, she and colleague Dean Stonecipher shepherd clients through the CLBs Foundations of Adjustment to Blindness (FAB) program, teaching such skills as housecleaning and navigating the Metro system. Cooking and grocery shopping are important features of the course. Vision loss, Stonecipher says, is adjusting to a major life loss. People become isolated within their homes and within their communities. We want to go from I cant to I can. For even a person who was once an accomplished cook, a simple task such as making and pouring a cup of coffee can present a range of difficulties, from measuring the beans and getting them ground and into a filter to adding cream and sugar to the cup. Each morning during the most recent course, clients arrived most by Metro and helped get coffee ready for the group. Then Levin laid out the menu for lunch and assigned tasks. On the first day, they started with making simple sandwiches while she introduced them to the kitchen, which Levin has organized to be more accessible to people with vision loss. Cabinet shelves are labeled in Braille in this group, only one person,Gloria Cooper, was learning Braille and utensils, serving dishes and pots and pans are grouped together to make them easier to locate. The key is keeping items in the same place all the time: Memory is the tool most used by those with low vision. Cooper, 62, lost her vision in 2002 after a series of strokes. I cried for 48 hours straight, she says while chopping broccoli under Levins watchful eye. Today shell make steamed broccoli with shredded cheddar cheese, while Smith is responsible for oven-baked barbecue chicken and those cookies. James Roane, a 79-year-old from Silver Spring with macular degeneration, will take on a wild rice pilaf. [Strokes are rising among younger adults] So much of the time, were teaching our clients about communication, Levin says. You have to tell your family to keep all the stuff on the counter and in the fridge in the same place, not move things around. She and Stonecipher are also training clients to ask for help by, for example, going to the customer service counter at the supermarket. Smith learned from Levin not to just ask for help, but to be specific. Before this class, he says, I would have gone to the store and just asked for eggs and milk, and I would have bought whatever they gave me. Now I know to say that I want 12 medium eggs, and I want the ones that are on sale. It makes me feel like I have more control. As Cooper grates cheese, its clear that she revels at being in the kitchen again. I miss cooking, she laughs, because Im a health nut! I like to know what Im putting on my plate. Most visually impaired people see shadowy shapes and little or no color, so they benefit from kitchen equipment that provides sharp contrast, such as a cutting board that is black on one side a perfect backdrop for slicing onions and white on the other which could be just right for chopping carrots. There are a lot of simple tools that can make cooking much easier, Levin says, and the Fort Totten apartments kitchen includes many of them, including oversized black-and-white timers, serrated plastic knives and cut-resistant gloves. Levin spends considerable time teaching kitchen safety tips such as keeping fingertips curled away from the knife, using elbow-length oven mitts and attaching heat-resistant fabric strips to the edges of oven racks to help prevent burns. The oven itself is preset to 350 degrees: Clients can easily adjust the controls up or down to get to an intended temperature. Perhaps no one is more familiar with such tools and techniques than Christine Ha, a best-selling cookbook author and winner of the MasterChef television competition in 2012 who happens to be blind. Modern appliances, she says, with smooth touch-screen surfaces, can pose real difficulties for the visually impaired, requiring tweaks such as attaching small adhesive dots to help identify on and off buttons and temperature controls. Has success in the kitchen is inextricably linked to her other senses: You can hear when a pan is hot enough by the sizzle, she says, you can smell when the garlic in the pan goes from raw to fragrant to burnt, you can feel when vegetables are becoming tender over the fire, and you definitely should taste your food as you cook to properly season. Levin gave Smith the same advice when he told her about the one dish he used to enjoy making, spaghetti with meat sauce. How do I know if the meats cooked? he asked on the first day of class. Levin told Smith that he would need to use a fork to press the meat as it cooked, measuring how the texture changes, and also rely on his sense of smell. By the end of this program, youll be able to make your spaghetti, she assured him. Still slimy, he declares on Day 8, testing the barbecued chicken with a fork. Back from an outing on Metro with Stonecipher, Roane shoos everyone aside as he starts to prepare the pilaf. You all got to get out of the way now, cause Im getting ready to roll, he chuckles. The tough thing about our jobs is [that] we dont have a lot of time to be kind, Stonecipher says, so we can be sort of strict, just to keep everyone moving along. But I really enjoy watching them grow in confidence. You can see it in their smiles. You can also see it on their plates. At graduation on the final day, each client prepared favorite dishes to share with family and friends. Cooper made a green bean casserole and baked potatoes, while Roane offered up meatballs and garlic bread. And Smith must have caught the baking bug, because he made brownies for dessert preceded by his spaghetti with meat sauce. 1 of 24 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad Puerto Rico becoming a breeding ground for the Zika virus in the U.S. View Photos Cases of Zika are expected to rise in Puerto Rico in the coming months. And that raises the likelihood of transfer to the mainland. Caption Cases of the virus are expected to rise on the island in coming months. And that raises the likelihood of transfer to the mainland. Feb. 22, 2016 A statue stands guard atop a tomb stone at the Villa Palmeras cemetery in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The cemetery is one of the oldest in the city. Flower urns at many graves are breeding grounds for the disease-carrying mosquitoes. Allison Shelley/For The Washington Post Wait 1 second to continue. Zika has landed forcefully in America, in one of its poorest and most vulnerable corners, a debt-ridden territory lacking a functioning health-care system, window screens and even a spray that works against the mosquitoes spreading the virus in homes, workplaces, schools and parks. There are 117 confirmed cases of the virus in Puerto Rico, four times the number at the end of January. The island territory, which has a population of 3.5 million people, is by far the most affected area in the United States, Tom Frieden, director of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), said Friday. The number will almost certainly rise sharply in coming weeks, making it ever more likely that the virus will spread to the continental United States. [Why the U.S. is vulnerable to the alarming spread of Zika virus] Dozens of flights move daily between San Juan and Orlando, Washington, New York and other major cities on the mainland. Cruise ships stop here as part of their Caribbean tours. College students will soon head here on spring break. The growing outbreak has laid bare how deeply Puerto Ricos debt crisis has cut public programs, including basic health and environmental control services needed to fight the virus. Most homes and public schools and even some medical facilities dont have window screens. A specialist in birth defects at Puerto Ricos top hospital has trouble obtaining basic supplies, such as toner for his office printer. There are hundreds of abandoned houses not only in low- and middle-income neighborhoods but also in gated communities because owners have fled to the mainland as a result of the economic crisis. At dusk, health department workers spray permethrin in the middle-class neighborhood of Riveras de Cupey in San Juan, Puerto Rico. The government is beefing up anti-mosquito measures as the Zika virus spreads through the island. (Allison Shelley for The Washington Post) Experts say urgent action is needed before mosquitoes reach their peak with the start of the rainy season in April. Experts from the CDC estimate that 700,000 people about 20 percent of the population could be infected across the island by the end of the year, based on previous outbreaks of dengue and chikungunya, related viral diseases. In response, the CDC has sent 30 experts from its Atlanta headquarters and elsewhere to Puerto Rico, adding to the 70 CDC staff members based here who usually work on dengue fever but now are focusing on Zika. Frieden is expected to visit soon. President Obamas $1.9 billion emergency Zika request to Congress includes $250 million for Puerto Rico. I dont think were going to be able to stop the Zika outbreak, said Steve Waterman, chief of the CDCs dengue branch, located on the citys west side. There will be a substantial Zika outbreak that will peak in the summer and fall. Its likely that thousands of pregnant women will be exposed and infected, so thats why our efforts are focused on protecting as many pregnant women as possible. [Scientists find first links between Zika and temporary paralysis: What you need to know] Five of the 117 confirmed cases involve pregnant women. And unlike in the continental United States, where cases are the result of infected travelers to Latin America and elsewhere bringing the virus back home, almost all the cases in Puerto Rico involve people bitten here by infected Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which also spreads dengue fever and chikungunya. Because of the suspected link between Zika and potentially devastating birth defects, authorities are focusing on protecting as many pregnant women as possible. That includes 4,000 expectant mothers living in parts of the island where mosquitoes are spreading the virus. Thats more than one-third of Puerto Rico primarily San Juan, the northeast and the southern coast. [What is Zika and what are the risks as it spreads?] Only the CDC and Puerto Ricos health department labs can perform the special Zika testing. The labs expect to run 100,000 tests over the year for pregnant women, five times as many as they handle now, Waterman said. Determining whether someone is infected is complicated because most people dont show symptoms. Its also hard for tests to easily differentiate between dengue and Zika infections. On Monday, authorities in Puerto Rico began distributing free Zika prevention kits to pregnant women that were created by the CDC and the CDC Foundation. The kits include information and tools to help them reduce risk of infection and include repellent, products that kill mosquito larvae, and condoms. Mosquitoes have ample breeding grounds here. In the Villa Palmeras cemetery in barrio Obrero, a low-income neighborhood in northeastern San Juan, virtually all of the thousands of graves have built-in flower stands where water, and mosquito larvae, collect. There are 109 cemeteries across Puerto Rico and thousands of flower holders. Mosquito larvae also flourish underground, in water meters and vent pipes of septic tanks, which contain more water than elsewhere in the United States, said Roberto Barrera, a CDC entomologist. [How a tiny mosquito became one of the worlds most efficient killers] And then there are the mountains of used tires, which mosquitoes flock to, said Johnny Rullan, a former health secretary who is helping the government eliminate breeding sites. Puerto Rico has accumulated more used tires than anywhere else in the United States, experts said. In the past three weeks, temporary collection centers have received more than 561,000 tires. Elwin Moran, 26, helps pile used tires at a former shoe factory in Humacao, Puerto Rico. The Humacao environmental board is collecting abandoned tires from neighborhoods. (Allison Shelley for The Washington Post) Part of living on the island Perhaps the most difficult challenge is changing peoples attitudes and behavior about an ever-present pest that is as much a part of life here as steamy weather and graceful old banyan trees. What can I say, its part of living on the island, said Jose Fernandez, a supervisor at a tire collection center in Humacao, in the southeast. Emeris Canales Morales, 27, a single mother who is 23 weeks pregnant, lives in a home that overlooks a small cemetery on one side and a fetid canal on the other. Plastic bottles and other trash collect along the banks of the canal. Her windows have no screens. In December, the mosquitoes were biting so hard that she woke up with red welts covering her arms. [Have you had an experience with Zika? Tell us about it.] At a prenatal clinic for high-risk pregnancies at San Juans University Hospital at the Puerto Rico Medical Center, she was among the first to sign up for free Zika screening for women in their first and second trimesters. Tourists visit two of Puerto Ricos most famous landmarks Fort San Felipe del Morro fortress and Santa Maria Magdalena de Pazzis cemetery. Mosquitoes thrive in wet conditions, such as cemeteries. (Allison Shelley for The Washington Post) She wont know the results for at least another week. Her first two pregnancies ended in miscarriages because of complications from diabetes. She is hoping for the best this time. I havent had the fever or the red eyes or the rash, said Canales, who lives in Loiza, a northeast community that is one of the islands poorest areas. [Of 9 U.S. women with Zika, 2 abortions and 2 healthy babies] But even for pregnant women, its hard to stay vigilant against the mosquito. When there was chikungunya, we joked about it until everyone had it, she said. Until people have the sickness, nobody in Loiza will take it seriously. Said Brenda Rivera, chief epidemiologist for Puerto Ricos health department: Controlling Zika is going to be a daunting task. The department is coordinating the islands response to the public health emergency. Entomologist Roberto Barrea examines materials at a lab where his team breeds thousands of mosquitoes for research at the CDCs dengue branch in San Juan. (Allison Shelley for The Washington Post) Poor and unprepared Women in Puerto Rico give birth to about 33,000 babies a year. The island has one of the highest teenage birth rates in the United States, and many public high schools have no window screens. The government is estimating how much it would cost to add screens, said Grace Santana, chief of staff to Gov. Alejandro Javier Garcia Padilla. Nearly half of Puerto Rico lives below the poverty line. The thousands of pastel-hued public housing projects that dot the island dont have air conditioning. Residents dont have window screens, in part because they cant afford them, but also because they dont want to block the breeze. Adding screens to those homes would cost about $70 million, said Santana. At dusk on a recent day, a maroon pickup truck drove through the streets in the middle-class neighborhood of Riveras de Cupey, in San Juans south, spraying permethrin, a commonly used insecticide, from a machine mounted on the back. But Aedes aegypti mosquitoes already have developed resistance to permethrin in some parts of Puerto Rico, said Audrey Lenhart, a CDC research entomologist. She is testing which insecticides are most effective, something that was never done before. The Puerto Rican government doesnt really have a well-developed vector control and surveillance program, she said, referring to basic programs to eliminate insects, birds and other vectors that transmit disease. [Unknowns about Zika make it more insidious, cunning, and evil than Ebola] CDC teams are helping authorities rebuild mosquito control programs, expand testing, and monitor and track thousands of pregnant women and their babies. They also are working with U.S. companies to provide window screens for womens homes, and to bring to market a CDC-invented trap that could be a potent and cheap way to snare and kill adult mosquitoes. For doctors such as Alberto De La Vega, an expert in high-risk pregnancies at the University Hospital in San Juan, Zika is one of many serious concerns. He worries that additional Zika testing will create huge demands on an already burdened health system. Were having problems getting supplies, but we have to uphold U.S. standards, he said. He has modern ultrasound equipment, but he pays out of his own pocket for the paper sheets that cover exam room beds. He tells his patients they need to remove standing water and wear repellent. What we can do as physicians is very little, he said. By the time we identify problems with the fetus, its usually well into the second trimester, and by then its too late. Everything you ever wanted to know about the Zika virus and its spread across North and South America. (Daron Taylor,Claritza Jimenez/The Washington Post) Im going to have the baby The new mystery disease has infected Zulmarys Molina Paredes, 29. Shes one of the five pregnant women with a confirmed Zika diagnosis. But at 16 weeks in her pregnancy, an ultrasound shows her baby developing normally. Molina and her 2-year-old son, Marco, live in Humacao in a peach-colored public housing project with her mother, aunt and brother. She is the sole breadwinner. She thinks she became infected at the private university where she works as an admissions officer, during tours of the campus. The campus has an artificial lake surrounded by trees full of mosquitoes. Her headaches began Feb. 5. The following Monday, she looked in the mirror and was stunned. I was starting to put on my makeup and realized I was covered in a rash, she said. I got really scared. The emergency room doctor sent Molinas blood to be tested. Nine days later, she was told her test was positive for Zika. But the doctor also said scientists didnt know how often women with Zika infections have babies with birth defects such as microcephaly, where they are born with abnormally small heads. Given the uncertainty, she is choosing to believe and to pray that everything will be fine. An amniocentesis is scheduled for next week. More ultrasounds will follow. I dont care what happens. Im going to have the baby, Molina said. I have faith that shes going to be fine. Her due date is Aug. 6. She will name her daughter Michaela. Protesters are planning a demonstration Monday evening in downtown Salt Lake City after police officers shot and critically wounded a black teenager during a street altercation on Saturday night. Abdi Mohamed, 17, a Kenyan immigrant who reportedly was holding a piece of a broomstick, was struck by three bullets in his upper and lower torso, police told the Salt Lake Tribune. The shooting followed police intervention in a dispute near downtown in which Mohamed was arguing with another man, at least one witness said. Mohamed was listed in critical condition Sunday. The use of force by law enforcement against the public can tear at the delicate balance of trust between both sides, Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski (D) said in a statement Sunday afternoon. These incidents create a number of unanswered questions in the short term, and justice requires we work together in good faith. She said the district attorney and the Unified Police Department are investigating. Police said that two officers were involved and that both had body cameras that filmed the event. An ongoing Washington Post database lists 161 people shot dead by police this year, and 990 in 2015. The investigation reports 12 people killed by police in Utah during the survey period all but one were white men. Ten of the 12 had a knife or firearm; one had a pellet gun that looked similar to a pistol and one held a shovel, which was used to strike an officer. A group called Utah Against Police Brutality announced plans on social media to hold the protest Monday. Police said in a statement that about 8 p.m. Saturday night, officers witnessed two males with metal objects attacking a male victim. Officers confronted the two suspects and ordered them to drop the weapons. One of the males complied and dropped the weapon, the other continued to advance on the victim and was shot by officers. But Selam Mohammad, who was near Mohamed at the time of the shooting, told KSTU-TV that Mohamed had dropped the stick. The police said, Drop it once, then they shot him four times, Mohammad said. We were trying to break it up before the police even came, but the police ran in on foot and pulled their guns out already. The shooting unleashed angry protests, with demonstrators gathering near the scene. A police spokesman told local reporters that some officers were injured by flying objects and that police responded with pepper spray and Tasers. Nearly 100 officers some carrying riot shields were at the scene. We are committed, to ensuring the Salt Lake City Police Department does business appropriately, in line with the communitys trust and expectations, Police Chief Mike Brown said in Sundays statement. Our goal is to always de-escalate any type of volatile situation using the minimal amount of force necessary. Family members told KSTU that Mohamed has lived in Utah for a decade and has a son. The station quoted his girlfriend, Becca Monson, as saying Mohamed is a really caring, good, loving boyfriend, and a really, good caring loving father. BEST THING THAT HAPPENED TO REPUBLICANS They held firm on their decision not to consider anyone President Obama might nominate to fill the vacancy on the Supreme Court, even if he picks a Republican. Last week Obama briefly floated Nevada Gov. Brian Sandoval, a moderate and popular Republican, as someone he was vetting. Suggesting a Republican may not have been a coincidence, as it came a day after Senate Republicans said they wouldnt even meet with an Obama nominee. But top Republicans didnt blink at the prospect of having to say no to one of their own. Theyre banking that by playing hardball on this, they can rally their base in November to win the White House, keep control of the Senate and get to decide who fills this Supreme Court vacancy and possibly others. Sandoval pulled his name out of consideration after less than 24 hours. BEST THING THAT HAPPENED TO DEMOCRATS Donald Trump looks unstoppable on his way to the Republican nomination. If he wins big on Super Tuesday, as expected, it would be hard for anyone to beat him. That is potentially good news for Democrats. In the RealClearPolitics average of head-to-head general election matchups, Trump is the only Republican candidate who trails Hillary Clinton, if only by two points. (Well add a heavy caveat here that general-election polling this early in the race isn't that reliable, since we don't yet know who will be the nominees.) But Democrats would almost certainly rather take their chances with the polarizing Trump a recent Washington Post/Univision poll indicated eight in 10 Hispanics have an unfavorable view of the bombastic billionaire than Sens. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) or Ted Cruz (R-Tex.). Amber Phillips RUSSIA Mine blasts kill 36, including rescuers A methane gas leak at a coal mine in Russias far north triggered three explosions, which ignited fires and partially collapsed the mine, killing 36 people, officials said Sunday. The dead included six rescue workers killed early Sunday when the third explosion rocked the Severnaya mine in Vorkuta, a town north of the Arctic Circle in the Komi region, emergency officials said. The first two explosions struck late Thursday, killing four miners and trapping 26. Denis Paikin, technical director for the mine operator, Vorkutaugol, said Sunday that given the level of gas in the mine, the degree of destruction and the trajectory of the fire, which continued to burn, all the missing miners were presumed dead. Federal officials later confirmed that none of the trapped miners had survived. At the time of the first blast, 111 miners were underground. Eighty-one were rescued. Russias industrial-safety watchdog, Rostekhnadzor, said the event was a natural disaster. The Investigative Committee, however, said it had not yet determined what caused the gas explosions. Associated Press SWITZERLAND Plan to expel foreign criminals is rejected Swiss voters have rejected a proposal by a nationalist party to automatically expel foreigners who commit even minor crimes, the Swiss public broadcaster SRF reported hours after polls closed at noon Sunday. SRF cited the political research group Gfs.bern, which projected that the measure would be rejected by 59 percent of voters, based on partial results from some polling areas. The outcome deals a blow to the Swiss Peoples Party, which had campaigned for the plan and is against immigration. The result is also a turnaround from opinion polls last year, which had predicted that the proposal would be accepted. Under the plan, the law would have been changed to make expulsion part of the sentence for foreigners who commit crimes, whether they are severe ones such as murder or lesser offenses such as threatening officials if they are committed twice within 10 years. A broad coalition of political parties and legal experts had come out against the plan in recent months, arguing that it was inhuman and would effectively create a two-tiered justice system that treats Switzerlands 2 million or so foreigners about a quarter of the population more harshly. Associated Press SOMALIA Al-Shabab attacksclaim 17 lives Somalias al-Shabab Islamist militant group bombed a busy junction and a nearby restaurant Sunday in the town of Baidoa, killing at least 17 people, a police officer and the group said. Al-Shabab often carries out such attacks in its bid to topple Somalias Western-backed government. The group wants to impose its strict version of Islamic rule in the Horn of Africa nation. Police Col. Abdi Osman said the death toll was 17, mostly civilians, with 25 others injured. A police officer said a suicide car bomber struck at the junction while a second blast possibly a bomb that had been planted or a suicide attack rocked the restaurant. We targeted government officials and forces, a spokesman for al-Shababs military operations said. The blasts follow a car bombing Friday near a park and hotel in Mogadishu, Somalias capital, that killed 14 people. Reuters Indian man kills 14 relatives, hangs self: A man in western India fatally stabbed 14 members of his family, including seven children, before hanging himself, police said. Hasnain Warekar, 35, went on his overnight killing spree after a family gathering at his home, said a police spokesman in the city of Thane, near Mumbai. The spokesman said a motive was not known. Warekars wife and two young daughters were among those killed. Thai police arrest 5 in rape, assault of French tourists: Police in eastern Thailand said they have arrested several Cambodian sailors suspected of attacking four French tourists on a resort island, including raping the two women in the group. The five Cambodians assaulted the tourists with knives and sticks on the island of Koh Kut after anchoring their fishing boat, said Maj. Gen. Nopparat Rintapon, head of police in Trat province. Three of the tourists were badly injured. One of the tourists ran away and got help, while the two women were raped, Nopparat said. From news services IRAQ Islamic State attack kills 38 at funeral At least 38 people were killed Monday when an Islamic State suicide bomber struck at a funeral in an Iraqi town that experienced a wave of revenge attacks after a similar attack in January. Fifty-eight people were wounded in the bombing in Muqdadiyah, about 60 miles north of Baghdad, according to security and hospital officials. The dead included a local commander of Asaib Ahl al-Haq, a powerful Shiite militia that is part of the state-sanctioned popular mobilization units that are responsible for much of the security in the area. The Islamic State, a Sunni group, bombed a cafe frequented by militiamen in Muqdadiyah in January, killing at least 32 people and triggering revenge attacks on Sunni mosques and civilians. The Islamic State asserted responsibility for Mondays attack in a statement posted online. On Sunday, a double bombing in Baghdad claimed by the Islamic State killed 73 people. Associated Press FRANCE Part of migrant camp dismantled in Calais Makeshift huts went up in flames on Monday in a backlash as workers, guarded by French police, began pulling down tents and shelters in the sprawling migrant camp in Calais. Police lobbed tear gas in a brief clash with pro-migrant activists and others throwing projectiles. No injuries were reported. At least three people were arrested, authorities said. Three makeshift homes went up in flames, the fires set either by upset migrants or activists, a police spokesman said. A larger fire, apparently spread by wind, destroyed a mass of shelters. The camp in Calais, which has ferries and the Eurotunnel rail route to Britain, sprang up less than a year ago. It grew rapidly amid Europes migrant crisis. Associated Press 3 ex-utility executives charged in Fukushima disaster: Three former executives of a Japanese utility were charged with professional negligence in the Fukushima nuclear disaster, the first officials from the Tokyo Electric Power Co. to face a criminal trial in the matter. Three reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi plant suffered meltdowns after being damaged by a March 2011 earthquake and tsunami. Ex-leaders kin held in Colombia death squad case: The brother of former Colombian president Alvaro Uribe was arrested on suspicion of a role in killings and forced disappearances involving a far-right death squad in the 1990s. Santiago Uribe has long denied involvement in the killings, attributed by a former police officer to the group known as the 12 Apostles. Walesa says signatures on informant documents arent his: Polands democracy champion and Solidarity founder Lech Walesa said signatures on documents that purport he was a Communist-era paid informant are not his. A state history institute released photocopies of the documents last week. I never betrayed anyone, Walesa told TVN24. He has long denied allegations that he informed on others to the Communist security police in the 1970s. Protests erupt after Pakistan hangs ex-governors killer: Pakistan executed a man who killed the governor of Punjab province in 2011 over his call to reform strict blasphemy laws, which carry a death sentence for insulting Islam. The hanging triggered protests in several cities by supporters of Mumtaz Qadri, who had said after his arrest that he killed Gov. Salman Taseer because he supported a Christian in a blasphemy case. From news services Thumbing through the annual report of the White Houses Council of Economic Advisers (CEA) is always an education. This years 430-page edition is no exception. Crammed with tables and charts, it brims with useful facts and insights. On page 62, we learn that the growth of state and local government spending on services (schools, police, parks) has been the slowest of any recovery since World War II. One reason: Payments into underfunded pensions are draining money from services. The CEA says on page 72 that labor markets could tighten in 2016 even if job creation is well below last years monthly average of 228,000. A mere 78,000 new jobs a month would absorb new workers and keep the unemployment rate at 5 percent. With 141,000 new jobs a month, unemployment would drop to 4.5 percent (Januarys actual rate: 4.9 percent). A chart on page 149 shows that U.S. exports have increased as a share of the economy (gross domestic product), from 10 percent of GDP in 2005 to 12.5 percent in late 2015. Unfortunately, slow economic growth abroad lately has dampened demand for American exports. But the most fascinating discussion concerns economic inequality a hot topic in the presidential campaign. To remind: The figures are stunning. From 1975 to 2014, the share of pretax income going to the top 1 percent grew from 8 percent to 18 percent. (Note: Counting fringe benefits, government transfers say, Social Security and taxes reduces the concentration.) We have a stock explanation for this. Corporate compensation committees overpay chief executives; hedge fund operators reap big windfalls from trading securities. Although this undoubtedly occurs, the CEA modifies the standard portrait in two significant ways. First summarizing other studies it attributes much inequality to differences between companies and not to individuals in the same firm. Its not so much that the gap between the chief executive and the janitor at company A has widened; its that company A is falling behind company B, which is more profitable and pays both the CEO and the janitor better. Think General Motors (company A) and Google (B). The economy is splintering into increasingly and decreasingly profitable firms, argues CEA Chairman Jason Furman. Next, the CEA emphasizes the role played by economic rents, enjoyed mostly by highly profitable firms. An economic rent is a price or wage premium above whats necessary for a company to sell its product or a worker to take a job. A company selling its gizmo at $50 when $30 would earn a reasonable return has a $20 rent. Rents can result from market power (including monopolies), better products or technologies, favorable regulations and laws, import tariffs, corruption and much more. Rents earned by superior performance are defensible; rents created by preferential policies or industry consolidation are suspect. The trouble is that rents are invisible and can only be inferred. In practice, they show up as strong profits and cash flows. However created, companies have to decide who should get them top executives, workers, shareholders or some mix. A lot of the rents, the CEA suggests, go to top managers and investors. If a CEO is paid $5 million when shed work for $3 million, shes receiving a $2 million rent. Its also true that many middle-class workers have lost their ability, mostly through unions, to create their own rents higher wages. In the 1950s and early 1960s, when roughly 30 percent of non-farm workers belonged to unions, this was possible. Companies could pass higher wage increases along to consumers, because many industries were dominated by a few large firms and competition was weak. Even if todays unionization rate exceeded 2015s 11 percent, it would be hard to duplicate this feat. Competition has intensified in too many ways for too many firms: from foreign companies (autos, steel); from the Internet (retailers, movie studios); from deregulation (airlines, trucking and telecom firms). Companies with high labor costs that cannot be recovered in the market are likely to shrink or vanish. What emerges is a complicated and exasperating picture of growing inequality. Theres a historic rearrangement of economic activity thats generating more of it. Its not just greed run amok via undeserved rents. Indeed, even greed is sometimes good, as the CEA says: Large rewards can motivate innovators, entrepreneurs, and workers and compensate them for taking large personal risks choices that, in some cases, can benefit households more broadly. Put plainly: The prospect of striking it rich can inspire socially beneficial behavior. The CEAs theory of inequality is admittedly incomplete. The overall increase in income inequality in recent decades is large enough to accommodate many partial explanations, it says. Poor schools, new technologies, family breakdown and immigration all play a role. Fear not: There will be plenty to write about in next years report. Read more from Robert Samuelsons archive. SEN. BERNIE Sanders (I-Vt.), a Democratic candidate for president, asks his audiences to think big, insisting that only fundamental reform, not incrementalism, will do. He has shown that this approach can attract a passionate following. He has also shown that big thinking quickly turns to wishful thinking without solid details behind it. Nowhere is this clearer than in Mr. Sanderss health-care plan, which he promises would be a tremendous deal for nearly everyone. A new analysis from Kenneth Thorpe, an Emory University health-care expert who worked in the Bill Clinton White House, finds that Mr. Sanderss proposal would actually harm many working beneficiaries of Medicaid, the state-federal health-care plan for the poor and the near-poor. They already get government-provided care, but they would have to pay more of their wages to the federal government to finance Mr. Sanderss new single-payer system. Mr. Thorpe calculates that about 14.5 million Medicaid enrollees would end up worse off. He says he accounted for the increase in benefits Mr. Sanders is promising them. And Mr. Thorpes analysis takes the program cost estimates provided by Mr. Sanderss campaign as given. But there are plenty of reasons to doubt those, too. Mr. Thorpe, who did extensive economic modeling for the state of Vermont when it considered a Sanders-like single-payer plan, found that taxes would have to rise much higher than Mr. Sanderss proposal admits in order to pay its full costs. The reason is that Mr. Sanders makes overly optimistic sometimes even nonsensical assumptions about how much his plan would save. Mr. Thorpe found that Mr. Sanderss plan would not simply cut payments to pharmaceutical companies for brand-name drugs; it would nearly end them. It would rely on states to pay an increasing share of his health-care plans costs, when it may be illegal for the federal government to demand that they pay even what they do now after moving to a new system. Moreover, some of the administrative overhead that Mr. Sanders would eliminate goes to valuable things, such as care coordination and quality control. The Sanders campaign shoots back that, among other things, Mr. Thorpe neglects to consider that Mr. Sanders would raise the minimum wage along with establishing a new health-care system. The minimum wage increase, it is claimed, would offset the pain that low-income Medicaid beneficiaries would feel. Perhaps, but was not the point of the minimum wage hike to substantially raise living standards, not to offset added taxes? Besides, Mr. Thorpe reckons that many of the potential losers are already making more than the minimum wage, enough that, even if Mr. Sanders managed to pass both major reforms in tandem, there would still be a substantial number of low-income losers. And, remember, that calculation is premised on the notion that taxes would need to go up only as much as Mr. Sanders claims they would have to. Mr. Sanders needed to show that his political revolution could work. Instead, he has shown that grand pronouncements often collide with reality, raising unmentioned complications and trade-offs. By flubbing policy details, Mr. Sanders underlined the importance of getting the specifics right, rather than just pointing in a general direction. Anything else leads to unwanted side effects, unanticipated costs and unintentional losers. LATIN AMERICAS encouraging march away from authoritarian populism moved another step forward last week in Bolivia, where voters rejected the attempt of President Evo Morales to remove a limit on his tenure from the constitution. The result will not be dramatic change: Mr. Morales, who was first elected in 2005, can still remain in office until 2020 long enough, perhaps, to mount another referendum. But the result, following the recent electoral defeats of populist regimes in Argentina and Venezuela, is another sign that the region is leaving behind a movement that, in the name of a pseudo-socialism, dismantled democratic checks and balances. Mr. Morales rose to power with the sponsorship of former Venezuelan ruler Hugo Chavez and adopted many of his political tactics. He promoted a new constitution that weakened the democratically elected Congress, compromised the independence of courts and the central bank and intimidated independent media. A newly docile Supreme Court ruled that he could run for a third term in 2015, even though the new constitution had limited presidents to two terms. Already the longest-serving president in Bolivias history, Mr. Morales hoped the referendum would allow him to run for yet another five-year term in 2019. The Bolivian leader avoided some of the Chavistas worse excesses, particularly in economic policy. He used the countrys burgeoning revenue from gas exports to invest in roads and other infrastructure; growth has averaged 5 percent a year over the past decade, and extreme poverty has fallen by half. While Venezuela squandered a windfall from high oil prices, Mr. Morales prudently built up an impressive reserve fund. However, many Bolivians were alienated by evidence of corruption. The 56-year-old Mr. Morales recently was forced to acknowledge a relationship with a 20-something woman who, despite lacking a college degree, headed a Chinese company that received nearly $500 million in government contracts. More millions disappeared from a government fund that was supposed to finance development projects for the indigenous communities that the president claimed to champion. Mr. Moraless grudging concession statement last week suggested he is far from ready to accept even a four-year horizon on his rule. This isnt the end of Evo, he said. But like other Latin American commodity exporters, Bolivia faces a tough economic adjustment in the next several years, which probably will further erode the caudillos support. If Mr. Morales is wise, he will seek to avoid the economic and political disaster being visited on Venezuela by using his remaining years to strengthen the non-gas economy while permitting potential successors to emerge, speak and compete freely. Unlike Chavez or Argentinas Cristina Fernandez de Kirchner, he has a chance to leave behind some positive legacies; but to do so he must accept the limit his own people have now placed on him. EVEN NOW, nearly three years after the fact, Fairfax County officials seem slow to absorb the lessons from the coverup, foot-dragging, reflexive secrecy and mulish unaccountability occasioned by the unwarranted death of John Geer, the father of two who was shot and killed in his own doorway by a county police officer in Springfield. Even now, after that public disgrace, the countys elected leaders are hemming and hawing over establishing an all-civilian oversight panel that could render a clear-eyed judgment on allegations of abuse in Fairfaxs 1,400-officer police department, Virginias biggest local law enforcement agency. Even now, after withering criticism of Fairfaxs inertia by a U.S. senator, a judge, citizens groups and the media, county politicians appear loath to confront police brass and rank-and-file representatives, who remain intent on subverting the oversight panels independence by stacking it with current and/or former police officers. And even now, no sense of urgency impels the formation of such an oversight body, which, though it was recommended by a police reform commission last fall, seems unlikely to exist and exercise actual oversight before sometime next year with luck. That reform commission was formed after the shame of the Geer episode assumed such dimensions that the countys Board of Supervisors could no longer look the other way. When it finally delivered its report, in October, after six months of deliberations, it pulled no punches and minced no words. Among its voluminous recommendations, in addition to establishing real independent oversight of the police, was an overhaul of the departments use-of-force policies and the setting up of an auditor, under the Board of Supervisors, who would review the integrity of internal police investigations. The heart of the commissions recommendations is the establishment of an oversight panel independent, staffed by civilians and accountable only to the public. Such bodies, with varying compositions, exist in cities and other localities around the country, including New York, Philadelphia and the District. In Fairfax, officials resisted for years, insisting the elected supervisors themselves could exercise effective oversight. The fallacy of that stance was laid bare by the Geer case, in which the Board of Supervisors appeared paralyzed, befuddled and tongue-tied as police went mum and prosecutors and the boards own lawyers played dodge-the-blame games for the better part of two years. Now that there is consensus on an oversight panel, some supervisors are insisting it include current or former police officers or county officials, in accord with the departments wishes. But what is the point of an oversight panel if the oversight it exercises is tainted from the get-go by the specter of bias? Do the countys elected representatives really think anyone will regard the oversight panel as meaningfully independent if the police themselves or their allies or advocates are doing the overseeing? The takeaway from the Geer case, in which the officer who pulled the trigger now faces murder charges, could hardly be clearer. Despite many dedicated and fine officers, public trust in the department is broken in Fairfax. The county must rectify that, and not by half-steps. Here, Repub-licans, is how your partys likely nominee, Donald Trump, spends his Sunday morning. At 6:13 a.m., he retweets a quote by the fascist dictator Benito Mussolini: It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep. When confronted later with its provenance, Trump says: What difference does it make if it was Mussolini or somebody else? Its a very good quote. At 9:08 a.m. he is on CNN, where he repeatedly declines to disavow the support he has been getting from white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan, saying he would need to do research before taking a position on hate groups support for him. At 9:14 a.m. he is seen on NBC stations telling Meet the Press host Chuck Todd that a judge in a case against Trump may need to be removed because the judge is Hispanic. The judge cant be fair to Trump because of the wall and because of everything thats going on with Mexico and all of that, the candidate says. By late morning, Stuart Stevens, who was a top adviser to Mitt Romneys presidential campaign in 2012, had heard enough. Its becoming obvious that supporting or not supporting [Trump] isnt a political choice, he tweeted. Its a moral choice. The man is evil. During appearances on network television Feb. 28, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump repeatedly declined to refuse the endorsement of David Duke, a former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. While Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz both took aim at Trump. (The Washington Post) To support Trump is to support the hate and racism he embodies. That is simply an intolerable moral position for any political party, Stevens elaborated Monday in the Daily Beast. If Trump wins the nomination, politicians who support him will be acquiescing to, if not actively aiding, his hate. The Republican strategist said that losing the presidential election wouldnt be as bad as the shame of pretending that an evil man was not evil and a hater really didnt mean what he said. We hold elections every two years, and there is always the chance to regain lost offices. But there is no mechanism to regain ones dignity and sense of decency once squandered. That defeat is permanent. To support Trump is to support a bigot. Its really that simple. On Super Tuesday, as Trump continues his march to the nomination, Republican politicians, operatives, donors and voters face a time of choosing: Will they support the nominee? Or will they support decency? Stevens is correct: Its a moral choice. Those who would support Trump cant deny that they are tolerating and supporting his bigotry. Stevens calls Trumps refusal to disavow the Klan disqualifying and tells me he wants to see a third-party challenge that would give conservatives an alternative to Trump. When people are playing the race card like Trump is playing, its not complicated to see it, said Stevens, a Mississippian. I have for months urged Republicans to call Trump the bigot and racist he is, and Ive noted his similarities in style and substance to Mussolini. But Republicans failed to unify against Trump when it could have made a difference, and now they have a likely nominee who: approvingly quotes Mussolini; tries to discredit a federal judge by invoking ethnicity; reacts to a demonstrator by saying Id like to punch him in the face; taunts other protesters by asking, Are you from Mexico?; declares that he is going to change free-speech laws to make it easier for him to sue news organizations; and refuses requests by the Anti-Defamation League and others to distance himself from white supremacists. (After declining Jake Tappers invitations to do that on CNN Sunday, Trump issued a tweet repeating an earlier disavowal of David Duke, but he said nothing about the hate groups supporting him.) Republican leaders had incorrectly gambled that ignoring Trump would make him disappear. Now its time for them to take sides and the divisions are telling. Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) chose one side Sunday, becoming the first senator to endorse Trump. No surprise: Sessions is an immigration hard-liner, and he came to the Senate after his nomination to be a federal judge had been voted down over accusations of racism and hostility to the Voting Rights Act. Ben Sasse (R-Neb.), a young, conservative freshman senator, took the other side. He posted a letter to Trump supporters Sunday night on Facebook decrying Trumps relentless focus on dividing Americans and saying a candidate who refuses to condemn the KKK cannot lead a conservative movement in America. Sasse wrote that if Donald Trump ends up as the GOP nominee, conservatives will need to find a third option. Such a third-party candidacy wouldnt succeed. But it could accelerate the demise of Trump, whose hate-filled campaign would be doomed in a general election anyway. And it would provide Republicans with something valuable: an alternative to bigotry. Twitter: @Milbank Read more from Dana Milbanks archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook. During appearances on network television Feb. 28, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump repeatedly declined to refuse the endorsement of David Duke, a former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. While Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz both took aim at Trump. (The Washington Post) During appearances on network television Feb. 28, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump repeatedly declined to refuse the endorsement of David Duke, a former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. While Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz both took aim at Trump. (The Washington Post) Donald Trumps distinctive rhetorical style think of a drunk with a bullhorn reading aloud James Joyces Finnegans Wake under water poses an almost insuperable challenge to people whose painful duty is to try to extract clarity from his effusions. For example, on Friday, during a long stream of semi-consciousness in Fort Worth, this man who as president would nominate members of the federal judiciary vowed to open up libel laws to make it easier to sue to intimidate and punish people who write negative things. Well. Trump, the thin-skinned tough guy, resembles a campus crybaby who has wandered out of his safe space. It is not news that he has neither respect for nor knowledge of the Constitution, and he probably is unaware that he would have to open up many Supreme Court First Amendment rulings in order to achieve his aim. His obvious aim is to chill free speech, for the comfort of the political class, of which he is now a gaudy ornament. But at least Trump has, at last, found one thing to admire from the era of Americas Founding. Unfortunately, but predictably, it is one of the worst things done then the Sedition Act of 1798. The act made it a crime to write, print, utter or publish, or cause it to be done, or assist in it, any false, scandalous, and malicious writing against the government of the United States, or either House of Congress, or the President, with intent to defame, or bring either into contempt or disrepute, or to excite against either the hatred of the people. Now, 215 years after the Sedition Act expired in 1801, Trump vows to use litigiousness to improve the accuracy and decorousness of public discourse. [Joe Scarborough: Trumps feigned ignorance about the KKK raises disturbing questions] The night before his promise to make America great again through censorship, Trump, during the Republican presidential candidates debate in Houston , said that his sister, a federal judge, [signed] a certain bill and that Supreme Court Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. also signed that bill. So, the leading Republican candidate, the breadth of whose ignorance is the eighth wonder of the world, actually thinks that judges sign bills. Trump is a presidential aspirant who would flunk an eighth-grade civics exam. 1 of 45 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad Trump captures the nations attention on the campaign trail View Photos The Republican presidential candidate focuses on Super Tuesday state primaries after a win in Nevada. Caption Businessman Donald Trump officially became the Republican nominee at the partys convention in Cleveland. Donald Trump speaks at a campaign event at Trump Doral golf course in Miami. Carlo Allegri/Reuters Wait 1 second to continue. More than anything Marco Rubio said about Trump in Houston, it was Rubios laughter at Trump that galled the perhaps-bogus billionaire. Like all bullies, Trump is a coward, and like all those who feel the need to boast about being strong and tough, he is neither. Unfortunately, Rubio recognized reality and found his voice 254 days after Trumps scabrous announcement of his candidacy to rescue the United States from Mexican rapists. And 222 days after Trump disparaged John McCains war service (I like people that werent captured). And 95 days after Trump said that maybe a protester at his rally should have been roughed up. And 95 days after Trump retweeted that 81 percent of white murder victims are killed by blacks. (Eighty-two percent are killed by whites.) And 94 days after Trump said he supports torture even if it doesnt work. And 79 days after Trump said he might have approved the internment of Japanese Americans during World War II. And 72 days after Trump proved that he does not know the nuclear triad from the Nutcracker ballet. And 70 days after Trump, having been praised by Vladimir Putin, reciprocated by praising the Russian murderer and dictator. And so on. [These new Trump poll numbers should terrify Republicans] Rubios epiphany announcing the obvious with a sense of triumphant discovery about Trump being a con man and a clown act is better eight months late than never. If, however, it is too late to rescue Rubio from a Trump nomination, this will be condign punishment for him and the rest of the Republican Partys coalition of the timid. Once to every man and nation, comes the moment to decide,/In the strife of truth with falsehood, for the good or evil side. So begins James Russell Lowells 1845 poem protesting Americas war with Mexico. The Republicans moment is here. We are about to learn much about Republican officeholders who are now deciding whether to come to terms with Trump, and with the shattering of their party as a vessel of conservatism. Trumps collaborators, like the remarkably plastic Chris Christie (I dont think [Trumps] temperament is suited for [the presidency]), will find that nothing will redeem the reputations they will ruin by placing their opportunism in the service of his demagogic cynicism and anticonstitutional authoritarianism. Read more from George F. Wills archive or follow him on Facebook. Michael Kinsley is a columnist for Vanity Fair and a contributing columnist for The Post. The bitter debate we are enjoying over the selection of a Supreme Court justice to replace the late Antonin Scalia is in large part a war of words. Conservatives and liberals do battle over terms such as conservative and liberal. Also strict construction, judicial activism, judicial restraint, legislating from the bench and result-oriented. Or take the word conservative. It gets used to mean three very different things. The correct definition of a conservative judge is one who uses his or her powers sparingly, recognizing that unlike the other two branches the judiciary is not elected by the people. Thus, judicial restraint. Judges who ignore this principle get tagged as legislating from the bench i.e, misusing their powers by making important policy decisions that should be left to the elected branches. Roe v. Wade, the 1973 abortion decision, is Exhibit A for those who believe that judges are too activist. They ask: Where is abortion in the Constitution? On the other hand, theres Brown v. Board of Education, the 1954 decision ending or at least attempting to end segregation by race in public life. If you ask yourself which of these is more activist, youd have to conclude that its Brown, which put judges in the business of running school districts, creating employment quotas and generally interfering in a way that was shocking at the time. But who now thinks that Brown was a bad idea? Almost no one. You couldnt get confirmed as a Supreme Court justice, or (probably) elected president, if you said publicly that Brown was wrongly decided. This has put conservative nominees over the years William Rehnquist, Robert Bork, Scalia himself in a bind because, if truth be told, their professed doctrines cant support or explain Brown. Conservative, in the judicial context, can also mean something slightly different: a belief in the doctrine of stare decisis the judicial equivalent of papal infallibility, which holds that once a court, especially the Supreme Court, has ruled on an issue, that judgment should not be overturned. The law ought to be predictable, for reasons of fairness and economic efficiency. But judges make mistakes, and occasionally they recognize this and reverse themselves. A politicians position on stare decisis in any given case tends to depend on whether he or she favors the result thats being overturned. The decades since Roe have seen a lot of posturing about how this decision has woven itself into the warp and woof of our society, must not be tampered with and so on. These same decades also have heard plenty of politicians denounce unelected judges taking it upon themselves to push everybody around, etc., etc., etc. A third way to be a judicial conservative is simply to believe that contrary to everything they may say in public the job of conservative justices is to impose the conservative agenda on the nation. George W. Bush should be president, not Al Gore. State governments should be forbidden to legalize abortion (not merely allowed to make it illegal). Affirmative action of all sorts should be flatly unconstitutional. Liberals did this kind of thing in the 60s. Now, at long last, its our turn, says this kind of conservative. A fair analysis of the courts decisions of the past 50 years would show, I believe, that at least in the first half of the period liberals on and off the court were more guilty of judicial overreach than conservatives. But conservatives have been more guilty of inconsistency, if not hypocrisy, in claiming to have it all figured out. The reason we want smart, thoughtful folks as justices is that there is no magic system that can solve the riddles that come before the Supreme Court. Sonorous phrases such as due process of law or natural born citizen dont have any obvious and certain meaning. They need to be interpreted. In all the yip-yap that followed Scalias death, you might have gotten the impression that he had discovered a brilliant new way of interpreting the Constitution, known as originalism: A phrase in the Constitution means what its authors intended it to mean. Actually, you would be hard put to find any judge who admits to thinking anything else. They all say, and probably believe, that they are interpreting the wishes of the authors if nothing else, the authors wishes about how they wished to be interpreted. Originalism isnt as original as all that. The writer hosts MSNBCs The Rachel Maddow Show and is a contributing columnist for The Post. Donald Trump is not a racist, but Donald Trump is not afraid. Dont vote for a Cuban, vote for Donald Trump. This is not the first white supremacist pro-Trump robocall by a group calling itself American National Super PAC, but it hits the same low notes as the last one. We dont need Muslims. We need smart, well-educated white people, said the first call, which went out to Iowa and New Hampshire voters ahead of the presidential nominating contests in those states. The groups pre-Super Tuesday call, which has reportedly gone out in Vermont and Minnesota, says, The white race is dying out. . . . Few schools anymore have beautiful white children as the majority. Both calls identify the person responsible for the message as a farmer and white nationalist, and both end the same way: Vote Trump . . . This call is not authorized by Donald Trump. Trump has no affiliation with the white supremacists making these calls on his behalf, but hes certainly got them all excited. The racist American Freedom Party is technically running its own candidate for president on a Stop White Genocide ticket, but its heart is clearly with Trump. A statement from the group announcing that first round of racist robocalls in Iowa called Trump The Great White Hope. Before the first votes were cast this year, Trumps candidacy was also being hailed and welcomed by the American Nazi Party, the KKK-affiliated Knights Party, the skinhead and neo-Nazi online forum The Daily Stormer and former KKK Grand Wizard David Duke. [Joe Scarborough: Trumps feigned ignorance about the KKK raises disturbing questions] During appearances on network television Feb. 28, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump repeatedly declined to refuse the endorsement of David Duke, a former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. While Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz both took aim at Trump. (The Washington Post) Duke started praising Trump on his radio show during the summer, saying that Trumps campaign was doing some incredibly great things, but he stopped short of fully endorsing Trumps candidacy. Now, Duke is overtly calling on his supporters to join the Trump campaign: Voting against Donald Trump at this point, is really treason to your heritage. . . . I am telling you that it is your job now to get active. Get off your duff. Get off your rear-end thats getting fatter and fatter for many of you every day on your chairs. When this shows over, go out, call the Republican Party, but call Donald Trumps headquarters, volunteer. Theyre screaming for volunteers. Go in there, youre gonna meet people who are going to have the same kind of mind-set that you have. Candidates cannot control who endorses them, and no one should hold candidates accountable for the views and actions of their supporters unless the candidates endorse them in turn. But that doesnt mean the rest of us cant notice whos lining up behind whom. While there is no evidence that Trump is actively courting the support of neo-Nazis and white supremacists, or that he welcomes it, that support also doesnt come as a surprise after the campaign that he has run. Since he has been running for president, Trump has twice retweeted a message from the account @WhiteGenocideTM. The name associated with the account is Donald Trumpovitz, and the users location is listed as Jewmerica. The avatar associated with the account which Trump has twice sent to his own 6 million followers includes the phrase, The man who wants to be Hitler. In November, Trump also tweeted a graphic that showed wildly inaccurate statistics blaming African Americans for anti-white crime. The graphic originated from a Twitter account headed with a stylized swastika that is the symbol of a neo-Nazi group. The profane description of who the account belongs to includes the statement, Should have listened to the Austrian chap with the little moustache. [George Will: The Trump albatross] The Trump campaign, again, should not be conflated with its followers, but the candidate has not exactly gone out of his way to make clear to the white nationalists and neo-Nazis among us that their love is unrequited. After Duke started praising him last summer, Trump told interviewers who pressed him to repudiate the Klansman, Sure, I would, if that would make you feel better. Within the past few days, Trump said once that he disavowed Dukes support, and then subsequently that he would not disavow it because he didnt know who Duke was. In 1991, Duke ran for office as the gubernatorial nominee of the Republican Party in Louisiana. Disgusted mainstream Republicans were beside themselves that a Klansman had become the partys standard-bearer in that state. He was denounced by Republicans up to and including then-President George H.W. Bush. That said, the Democratic Partys candidate in that 1991 governors race was no prize either. Edwin Edwards had already served three terms as Louisiana governor, but he was flagrantly, even proudly, corrupt. Edwards ultimately went on to serve eight years in federal prison, but not before defeating Duke in a campaign that featured two of Americas all-time great political slogans: Vote for the Crook. Its Important and Vote for the Lizard, Not the Wizard. The point is that Duke lost that race, even against an opponent like Edwards. Of course he lost. Characters like that are expected to lose in America, anywhere and everywhere. Neo-Nazis, Klan members and white nationalists are a durable feature of the far-right fringe in U.S. politics. The constant reinvention and reintroduction of a character such as Duke over the years shows that our nations racist yahooism probably will never go away completely. Its like a latent infection that becomes mildly symptomatic again every time were under too much stress. What were not used to is it winning, and thereby getting a place in the spotlight at the center of mainstream, national politics. [These new Trump poll numbers should terrify Republicans] Maybe the Republican Party cracked the seal on this kind of thing in 2014, when it elevated Rep. Steve Scalise (R-La.) to the top tier of the House Republican leadership. Scalise, as a state legislator, once addressed a white supremacist convention of the European-American Unity and Rights Organization. He says he had no idea that it was a racist group, but a local reporter says he also told her at the time that Louisiana voters should think of him as David Duke without the baggage. Thats a quote that the White House has frequently reiterated to the press corps since Republicans decided to elevate Scalise to the No. 3 job in the House. The White House keeps bringing up the quote because its supposed to be a source of shame for Scalise and for the party in choosing him as a leader. Thats the usual interplay between the racist fringe and the mainstream political right: The overtly racist stuff is supposed to be a political loser and radioactive to mainstream Republicans. What is not usual is that same cast of racist characters and organizations feeling at home and well represented at the very apotheosis of Republican Party politics, in the campaign of the prohibitive front-runner for the partys presidential nomination. Again, a candidate cannot be held accountable for everything said and believed by his or her supporters. But once its clear that the candidate has both the attention and affection of the ugliest, most vile creatures in our political swamp, what he chooses to do about that is a leadership test not only for the candidate but also for the party of which he is becoming the standard-bearer. Now that the KKK and the white nationalists feel that the Republican Party has finally given them a candidate they can believe in, who will disabuse them of that notion? And how? The White House staff recently staged a photo op of President Obama walking through the West Wing colonnade carrying a thick binder filled with Supreme Court candidates. Call it (to paraphrase Mitt Romney) Obamas binders full of liberals. But heres the question: What judicial candidate in his or her right mind would accept Obamas nomination? Senate Republicans have made clear that any Obama nomination to the Supreme Court is dead on arrival. No hearings, no meetings, no vote zero chance of being confirmed. In other words, Obama will be asking someone to be the pilot of a political kamikaze mission. Who would agree to do that? Anyone who accepted would be throwing away any chance of ever making it to the Supreme Court under a future president. Think about it: If you are a serious liberal judicial candidate, and you think that Hillary Clinton might nominate you a year from now, why would you accept Obamas doomed nomination today and ruin your chances of getting bipartisan support and 60 votes needed to get confirmed under a new president? Not only will you never set foot on the Supreme Court dais, you will have your record torn apart. Politico reports that conservative groups such as America Rising and American Crossroads are preparing to inflict maximum political pain on whomever President Barack Obama nominates for the Supreme Court. With no Senate hearing, you will never get a public forum in which to defend your reputation. When outside groups are done carpet-bombing Obamas pick, we will find out (to paraphrase Sen. Ted Cruz) whether judicial nominees glow in the dark. Of course, the Obama administration will try to convince its chosen victim that the GOPs position is unsustainable. Once there is an actual nominee, the administration will say, Senate Republicans will have no choice but to cave because public pressure will be so great and they will not want to risk being painted as obstructionists in an election year. Wrong. All the politics favor the GOP holding the line. There is no public groundswell for a confirmation vote. The White House points to polls showing that a slight majority of voters prefer that the president and Congress fill Justice Antonin Scalias seat now, but other polls show that voters are evenly split on whether the Senate should wait for the next president it all depends on how the question is asked. But this misses the point. For most voters, the Supreme Court nomination is not the most pressing issue in this election. In 2008, the last time a new president was elected, only 7 percent said it was the most important factor in their choice. The fact is that most voters care far more about jobs and national security than whether the Supreme Court has eight or nine justices for the next several months. But the Supreme Court nomination is a top issue for the GOPs conservative base. And in case potential nominees have not noticed, that base is really, really angry with the Republican establishment in Washington. Thats why Donald Trump is currently headed for the Republican presidential nomination. These voters are fed up. They have been told time and again that their anger at Washington Republicans is unreasonable that it is impossible to repeal Obamacare, force Obama to rescind his unconstitutional executive orders or stop the miasma of federal spending so long as Obama wields his veto pen. But when it comes to a Supreme Court nomination, Senate Republicans hold all the cards. Obama is powerless to force them to hold hearings or a vote. They have it completely within their power to stop the president from replacing Scalia. It is purely a matter of political will. If Republicans were to cave and allow Obama to cement a liberal majority on the court, the base would never forgive them. The simmering volcano driving the Trump campaign would erupt. It would guarantee that Republicans lose the Senate in November. By contrast, if Senate Republicans hold their ground, angry grass-roots conservatives have a reason to hold their noses and vote for Republican senators about whom they are otherwise unenthusiastic. The conservative base knows that it needs to not only win the presidency but also hold onto the Senate to get a conservative nominee. Standing firm against a liberal justice will help vulnerable senators secure their base, which cares more about the issue than any moderate or independent voters in their states do. Anyone who accepts this nomination under these circumstance will never be confirmed and will regret playing a part in Obamas political charade. Moreover, the candidate will be, by definition, unqualified for the post because it means he or she is willing to be Obamas pawn in an unwinnable fight that will make him or her politically radioactive. In other words, good luck with your binders full of liberals, Mr. President. Well see whether any of them are suicidal enough to say yes. Read more from Marc Thiessens archive, follow him on Twitter or subscribe to his updates on Facebook. The senator from Vermont is Hillary Clintons rival in the contest for the Democratic presidential nomination. The senator from Vermont has become Hillary Clintons chief rival in the contest for the Democratic nomination. The senator from Vermont has become Hillary Clintons chief rival in the contest for the Democratic nomination. Bernie Sanders packed another campaign rally here Sunday night with the kind of display of enthusiasm that he hopes will power him to a series of victories on Super Tuesday. But for the senator from Vermont, Tuesday also could be the day he begins to feel the bracing realities of the Democratic presidential nominating process. If Hillary Clintons landslide victory in South Carolina on Saturday marked a psychological turning point for her in the Democratic race, Super Tuesday could prove to be the first sign of a mathematical turning point. If she builds on Saturday with a series of victories in Southern primaries, she will emerge with her small lead in pledged delegates increased. And soon, the rules of the nominating process will begin to work decisively in her favor. The Democratic rules, which allocate delegates on a proportional basis, are designed to keep the pledged delegate count relatively close as the early process unfolds. Some would say they actually help candidates who lose early contests. Once someone gains a lead, it becomes increasingly difficult for a challenger to make up that ground. Given the number of delegates at stake, Super Tuesday will mark the first serious step in that process. By March 15, at which time half of the delegates will have been awarded, it is highly possible that Clintons lead will be big enough to create a nearly insurmountable obstacle for Sanders, barring a major turnaround in their fortunes. Sanderss advisers know well the realities of the process. Prepared for Tuesdays results, they acknowledge that he will need to defeat Clinton in showdown primaries after Tuesday, when the campaign shifts to more friendly ground in industrial and other Northern states. Nonetheless, Tad Devine, senior strategist for Sanders and a veteran of delegate battles, said Sunday, Im not intimidated by the numbers. How do the rules play to the advantage of the front-runner? For starters, the calendar is working in Clintons favor. Only about 4 percent of the approximately 4,000 delegates have been awarded. On Super Tuesday, Clinton and Sanders will be competing in 13 contests (11 states plus American Samoa and Democrats voting from abroad) with 878 delegates at stake about 20 percent of the total. Sanderss best chance for victories Tuesday comes in five states: Colorado, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oklahoma and Vermont. Those states will distribute fewer than 300 delegates. Clinton has the advantage in six states, all with a higher percentage of nonwhite voters, which account for almost all the remaining delegates at stake: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. If Clinton repeats [her South Carolina performance] in those big Southern states on Tuesday, she ought to have a nice, substantial lead that will hold her in good stead, said Elaine Kamarck, a fellow at the Brookings Institution and an expert on the nominating process. Democrats award all pledged delegates proportionally unlike Republicans, who beginning on March 15 allow states to distribute delegates on a winner-take-all basis. The Democratic rules mean that no matter how well Clinton does Tuesday, she will be far short of a majority needed to clinch the nomination. Still, she will enjoy a small lead, and if she wins more states with margins close to that of South Carolina, her lead would be more substantial. On Saturday, she won more than twice as many delegates as Sanders. History shows that once a candidate gains the lead, it is difficult for the challenger to make up that ground. That happened to Clinton eight years ago against then-Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois. It also happened to then-Sen. Edward M. Kennedy of Massachusetts in his 1980 challenge to then-President Jimmy Carter. That is the potential challenge for Sanders in the weeks ahead, and he would need to rebound with decisive victories in states such as Illinois, Michigan and Pennsylvania, among others, to turn around the race. Clinton learned this lesson the hard way eight years ago in her losing battle with Obama. He turned what seemed at first to be an almost negligible lead in pledged delegates into the key question in the race. Although it went to the end of the primary season, Clinton could not overtake him. She and her advisers are hoping to apply the same approach to the race against Sanders. Here is what we know about who is expected to do well when 13 states head to the polls on Tuesday, March 1. (Julio Negron,Sarah Parnass/The Washington Post) Eight years ago, Obamas campaign advisers played the rules like virtuosos, while Clinton and her team were caught flat-footed, particularly in the caucus states where Obama rolled up lopsided victories and was rewarded with big delegate hauls. Here is one example of how the Obama campaigns mastery of the rules worked against Clinton: Among the states with contests on Super Tuesday 2008 were Idaho and New Jersey. New Jerseys primary awarded 107 delegates. Clinton won the state 54 percent to 46 percent but emerged with just 11 more delegates than Obama. Idahos caucus awarded a mere 18 delegates. Obama won the state with about 80 percent and netted 12 more delegates than Clinton. By the time the Clinton camp awoke to its problem, it was too late. That history was burned into the minds of Clintons current team, led by campaign manager Robby Mook. This year, her advisers vowed not to repeat those mistakes. Having seen what happened in 2008, there was an effort this time to make sure she was properly organized and would concede nothing in the caucus states, said Jeff Berman, a consultant to the former secretary of states campaign and one of the key architects of Obamas delegate strategy in 2008. There is another twist to the rules that could help Clinton on Tuesday and will aid her throughout. Democrats award many delegates on the basis of past election results in each congressional district. The more Democratic a district is, the more delegates that district has to award in the primaries. Because districts with the strongest Democratic performance also happen to have a high percentage of African Americans or Latinos, Clinton gains an extra advantage. For example, the majority-African American 7th Congressional District in Alabama will award nine delegates. No other district in the state has more than five. The same holds for the predominantly African American 2nd Congressional District in Mississippi. South Carolina was a big blow to Sanders, who conceded Sunday on ABCs This Week that We got decimated. But before a cheering crowd on the campus of Colorado State University on Sunday night, Sanders did not mention what happened Saturday as he delivered another ringing call for upending the system. Only in the closing minutes of his hour-long speech did he refer to Tuesdays contests, saying, Colorado can play an enormously important role in leading this country forward to a political revolution. Through the first four contests, Sanders and the insurgency he leads more than held their own. He narrowly lost two caucus states Iowa and Nevada won a blowout victory in New Hampshire, then lost badly in South Carolina. No one would have predicted six months ago that the insurgent campaign of a senator with little national profile would stand up so well against the force of the Clinton machinery. But now, as Clinton said Saturday in her victory speech, the campaign is going national. Devine acknowledged that the rules give an enormous advantage to a front-runner. But he added that, with Sanderss loyal following and a healthy campaign bank account, Sanders has the capacity to keep fighting indefinitely, arguing that he is the strongest Democrat for the fall. We can win delegates everywhere, Devine said. We can stay in [the race], win big showdown battles and wind up with more pledged delegates. Then we can make a very strong case that Bernie Sanders should be the nominee. Clinton has another big advantage, although one she probably will be reluctant to emphasize because it highlights her establishment support. She has a substantial edge over Sanders in support from superdelegates the approximately 700 elected officials and party leaders who are convention delegates. Her advisers know that she must prevail in the battle for pledged delegates above all else. Sanderss advisers recognize her strength among superdelegates, as well as the obstacles created by long-standing party rules. But they are not prepared to surrender to the numbers. Everybody wants to write the obituary, campaign manager Jeff Weaver said. But we very much are where we expected to be. Justice Anthony M. Kennedy arrives for the funeral of fellow justice Antonin Scalia in Washington. Abortion clinics hope Kennedy will side with the expected positions of the courts four liberal justices to overturn portions of Texass abortion law. (Carlos Barria/Reuters) Behind double-locked doors, beyond a waiting room named for Michelle Obama, past walls painted in signature purple hues called Enigma and Intuitive, the women who work at this abortion clinic await word from a man in Washington about whether a Texas law will force it to close. Outside a suburban Starbucks miles away, an administrative assistant would like that same man, Justice Anthony M. Kennedy, to know that the law already has so reduced the number of providers in Texas that she took out a payday loan and hopped a plane to California for the abortion she had trouble scheduling in her home state. And in the red granite Capitol in Austin, officials are also looking to Kennedy but want him to consider an alternative narrative about the law, which imposes new requirements on doctors and requires that even early abortions be performed in surgical centers. [Anti-abortion strategists focus on womens health, not unborn] These officials say the act grew out of concern for the health of women who choose the procedure and fits perfectly within the judicial compromise that Kennedy helped draft 24 years ago reaffirming a womans right to abortion but recognizing the states interest in protecting potential life. Four cases that could re-shape the country will be heard when the Supreme Court meets this term without Justice Antonin Scalia. Scalia consistently expressed conservative views when reviewing court cases. (Claritza Jimenez/The Washington Post) The Supreme Courts most important abortion case in decades, being heard on Wednesday, is pitched to an audience of one. Justice Antonin Scalias unexpected death complicates the impact of the courts eventual decision. But if the challengers are able to convince Kennedy that the Texas law goes too far, it would have national implications. States have passed more than 250 restrictions on abortion in the past five years. The case remains monumental, said Nancy Northup, president of the Center for Reproductive Rights (CRR), which is leading the legal challenge. These issues about these unnecessary health regulations shutting down abortion or cutting off services have to be resolved. The cases are going to keep on coming, Northup said. We are looking to get five votes, if not more, to be able to stop what has been a huge devastation of abortion access in Texas and threatens elsewhere. Kennedy, 79, is hardly the rescuer that abortion rights supporters would wish for. In his nearly three decades on the court, he has upheld every abortion restriction he has ever considered save one. The exception was a Pennsylvania law that required pregnant women to notify their husbands before seeking an abortion. He is the remaining justice of the trio who in 1992 set the current test for when abortion restrictions go too far. In Planned Parenthood v. Casey, Kennedy and Justices Sandra Day OConnor and David H. Souter upheld the basic framework of Roe v. Wade, finding that a womans right to an abortion is protected by the Constitution. The opinion also recognized that states have an interest in protecting potential life but that restrictions could not impose an undue burden on a womans right to an abortion before fetal viability. Giovanna Valverde attends a gathering at Whole Womans Health of San Antonio, on Feb. 9. The Supreme Court will soon hear Whole Woman's Healths challenge to Texas legislation that requires abortion facilities to meet heightened requirements by becoming ambulatory service centers. (Eric Gay/AP) [Supreme Court to interpret undue burden in Texas case] Justice Kennedys the only path to victory for the clinics, said David Cohen, a law professor at Drexel University who has written about the abortion rights movement. The calculation assumes that the courts four liberals Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Stephen G. Breyer, Sonia Sotomayor and Elena Kagan will agree with abortion providers that Texass law is too onerous. The key is going to be whether Kennedy thinks this is broader than any restriction hes seen, Cohen said. Texas argues that its 2013 law was a logical response to the shocking indictment of Philadelphia abortion provider Kermit Gosnell, who was convicted that year of first-degree murder in the deaths of three infants born alive and involuntary manslaughter in the death of a woman undergoing the procedure in his under- regulated clinic. The states restrictions were meant to ensure the safety of women undergoing the procedure, Texas told the Supreme Court, and fit within Kennedys opinion in Casey that states may regulate abortion, so long as the regulations have a rational basis and do not have the purpose or effect of creating a substantial obstacle to abortion access. One of the Texas provisions being challenged requires abortion clinics to meet the standards of ambulatory surgical centers. It was one of the recommendations of the grand jury that indicted Gosnell. The other provision in question requires doctors to obtain admitting privileges at local hospitals, which would allow the doctors to treat patients there in case of emergencies. Supporters call this another common-sense measure to ensure continuing care of a woman who develops complications. Five other states, including Virginia, require first-trimester abortions to be performed in the hospital-like settings Texas requires. At least nine have the same type of admitting-privileges requirement, according to the CRR. Other states have different versions of both. The number of clinics in Texas has dropped from about 40 to 19 since portions of the law went into effect. If the providers lose at the Supreme Court, they say the number will drop to 10 for a population of 5.4 million women of reproductive age. At Whole Womans Health of Fort Worth, director of clinic services Marva Sadler said her clinic would close. There is not enough room to convert the clinic into a surgical center, and the cost is prohibitive. The rooms in the center are named for strong women, she said Michelle Obama, Rosa Parks, Georgia OKeefe and Rosie the Riveter among them. Overhead lights are rarely on. I dont want anyone to feel like shes under a spotlight, Sadler said. In the recovery room, women sit in recliners and drink a special tea mixed by an herbalist in Austin. Music is played, in part to drown out the shouting of protesters just yards away, who pay rent on the property next door so they can demonstrate. While the three doctors who work at her clinic have admitting privileges at a nearby hospital, these are unnecessary, she said. A hospital would accept any woman with a problem. And the American Medical Association, which has filed a brief in support of the clinics, agrees that both requirements on admitting privileges and surgical center facilities are not necessary. Laws that regulate abortion should be evidence-based and designed to improve womens health, said the AMA brief. The challenged provisions of H.B. 2 are neither. Its not about the woman; its about an attack on women, Sadler said. Our objections went unheard because they didnt matter from the beginning, in my opinion. The agenda had been set. Texas presented medical officials who said the requirements would benefit women. A trial judge found the arguments unconvincing and struck down those provisions of the law. But a panel of the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 5th Circuit reversed that decision and said courts do not have to scrutinize the rationale provided by a legislature for abortion laws as long as that rationale has a reasonable basis. Nine states have joined Texas in asking the court to allow them to regulate health standards for abortion providers, just as for other procedures. There is nothing exceptional about the practice of abortion that should lead the court to endorse a constitutional right to the unsafe practice of medicine, which doctors in no other context enjoy, said the brief filed by the governors. And the National Right to Life Committee urges the Supreme Court not to take on the role of the nations medical board. But abortion rights supporters say the court has an obligation to decide whether the regulations are defensible or simply a pretext for making it harder for women to access abortion. The joint opinion in Casey holds that an undue burden could include unnecessary health regulations that have the purpose or effect of presenting a substantial obstacle to a woman seeking an abortion. Texas says that even with the reduced number of clinics, over 90 percent of Texas women of reproductive age will live within 150 miles of an open abortion clinic. Former Texas solicitor general Jonathan Mitchell has filed a supporting brief that says the providers have not met their burden of proving that it was H.B. 2 that caused clinics to close. His brief says that they failed to produce any evidence that any patient in Texas was unable to obtain an abortion after the admitting-privileges law took effect on October 31, 2013 or that any patient encountered substantial obstacles in doing so. It labels as outlandish a study done after the trial in district court that claimed long waiting times for women trying to secure abortions and an assertion that women were either self-inducing abortions or having abortions later in their pregnancies, when other Texas restrictions apply. But Candice Russell, an administrative assistant in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, said the problem was real for her. Her birth control device, an IUD, failed, and she was fairly far along when she realized she was pregnant, she said in an interview. The first appointment she could get was in two and a half weeks, she said. She worried that if she missed it because of work, it would be too late. So she went to California, where her ex-boyfriend had just moved, and quickly had an abortion. She said she was lucky. I took out a payday loan, and it put me in debt for a little bit, Russell said. But I think about women in the Panhandle or the [Rio Grande] Valley. Can they get on a plane, fly 1,500 miles away and get an abortion? No. The sudden end to Jeb Bushs presidential campaign this month appeared to bring another chapter to a close: his long and fruitful partnership with Republican admaker Mike Murphy, the brash strategist who has been at his side for nearly two decades. Since 1998, when Murphy helped Bush remake his image and win the Florida governors office after an earlier failed bid, the strategists firms have received nearly $36 million from Bushs campaigns, allied political committees and educational foundation, according to campaign finance and tax records compiled by The Washington Post. While the vast majority of the money went to purchase advertising, Murphy got a significant cut as the media consultant. In this years presidential contest, the pugnacious strategist helmed the big-money super PAC that Bush and his allies believed would give him a key edge in the race. By the time the former governor bowed out, Right to Rise USA had raced through more than $101 million of the nearly $119 million it had amassed, to little effect. Murphys work for Bush over the years underscores how a long-term relationship with a politician can pay dividends for a political consultant, even in defeat. Thats particularly true in the current era of independent super PACs, which can scoop up unlimited donations from individuals and corporations without having to answer to a candidate about how they use the funds. Right to Rises approach will be studied as a test of the kind of fiscal accountability that donors demanded after the 2012 election, when Republican super PACs and other groups unsuccessfully plowed hundreds of millions into costly television campaigns seeking to prevent President Obamas reelection. Former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, accompanied by his wife, Columba, announced to supporters that he was suspending his presidential campaign after the Republican primary in South Carolina on Feb. 20. (Matt Rourke/AP) In an interview, Murphy rejected speculation in news reports and on Twitter that he made millions from Right to Rise. His total compensation was capped, he said, ending up in the middle six figures. While campaign finance reports show Right to Rise paid two Murphy firms $6.35 million for media production, consulting and ad placement, most of the money went to purchase digital ads, according to people familiar with the spending. Overall, less than 5 percent of the $81 million that the group spent on TV and digital ads or less than $4 million went to commissions for an ad-buying company and the firms run by the super PACs two media strategists, Murphy and Larry McCarthy, officials said. Vendors were also capped at a certain level of compensation. Murphy rejects the idea that the group generated a cash bonanza for anyone involved. Overall, $94 million of the super PACs $101 million in spending went to political activities, while administrative overhead and fundraising costs totaled about $7.6 million, officials said. One of the reasons I was running the super PAC is because Jeb trusted me not to let the usual D.C. vendor class pick it clean, Murphy said. One of the things I was paid to do was manage the money appropriately and make sure that Right to Rise was the opposite of the caricature of the non-transparent, non-competitive-bid-driven, pocket-packing super PAC. Even though our top line was the highest, due to the fundraising success Jeb had, our operation was tight as a tack, Murphy said. Warren Buffett would approve of our overhead philosophy, he added, referring to the famously penurious investor. [Fall of the House of Bush: How last name and Donald Trump doomed Jeb] In the wake of Bushs loss, some big check-writers to Right to Rise are skeptical of how the group deployed its financial arsenal. I cant micromanage them, but from what I see, it seems like they overspent on a lot of things, said Andrew Sabin, the New York-based owner of a precious-metals refinery, who gave the super PAC $95,000. It just seemed like a lot of money to spend on a couple of states. Super PAC officials noted that major expenses were approved by a donor governance committee made up of Florida developer and former Bush ambassador Mel Sembler; Jeanne Phillips, a major Republican fundraiser in Dallas; and Ray Hunt, the executive chairman of Hunt Consolidated, a privately held energy and investment holding company. The group is now calculating pro-rated refunds for donors and plans to send contributors a memo accounting for its spending. We had confidence in Mike, and I think we did the best we could in deploying of resources, Sembler said in an interview last week. It looks to me that major money in advertising in this campaign is not making the difference. For his part, Murphy said the outcome had little to do with how the super PAC engaged in the race. We lost because people wanted something other than the vision that we were offering, he said. They wanted an anger candidate, and that, to his great credit, was not Jeb. People familiar with Bushs thinking said he is not second-guessing the super PACs strategy. Mike is a great talent and a loyal friend, Bush said in a statement. We both share a vision for the future of the conservative movement that is hopeful and optimistic. Murphys relationship with Bush dates to 1997, when the candidate tapped the admakers firm at the time, Murphy Pintak Gautier Hudome, for a second run for the Florida governors mansion after losing in 1994. Murphy helped soften Bushs image, emphasizing his commitment to education with ads in which the candidate pledged to give every school the resources to succeed. Spots sponsored by the state GOP showcased Bush with his young family and black Labrador retriever. Bush brought Murphy back for his reelection bid in 2002, a campaign that again focused heavily on his education record. In all, Bushs campaign committees and the state party paid Murphy Pintak Gautier Hudome $25.8 million during the two gubernatorial races, Florida campaign finance records show. A large share went to purchase TV airtime. Murphy dismissed the idea that the campaigns were particularly lucrative, but he declined to specify what he was paid. I did not get 15 percent, which is the great fiction, he said. I did two statewide campaigns where I got normal money. [Mike Murphy plots a win for Jeb Bush in the land of Hollywood liberals] Fees for media consultants vary widely. While ad buyers typically get between 2 percent and 5 percent to purchase television airtime, admakers and media strategists that once got as much as 15 percent in commissions now typically get paid an initial flat fee and then commissions on a sliding scale. In the run-up to Bushs presidential campaign, Murphy was hired by the Foundation for Excellence in Education, a nonprofit group started by Bush that promotes the student testing and school accountability measures he championed as governor. Between 2013 and 2014, the foundation paid Murphys current firm, Revolution Agency, $3.4 million to run a media campaign touting Common Core standards and student testing dubbed Learn More. Go Further. according to tax records and people familiar with the project. The Wall Street Journal first reported the payments. Revolution got the contract after a competitive bidding process, according to a foundation spokeswoman. One factor in Murphys favor was his familiarity with the overhaul of Florida schools that occurred under Bush, according to a person with knowledge of the selection process. By that time, Murphy was settled in Los Angeles, where he and his wife now live in the tony Hancock Park neighborhood. He rents out two other houses he owns in the area: a home perched in the Hollywood Hills above the famed Chateau Marmont hotel and a bungalow in a suburb east of the city. After working on high-profile California races such as former governor Arnold Schwarzeneggers 2003 campaign and technology executive Meg Whitmans failed 2010 gubernatorial bid, the media man had largely retired from politics, focusing instead on corporate clients. But last year he agreed to assist Bushs presidential run, choosing to run the super PAC from Los Angeles so that he did not have to leave his family. Murphy envisioned the group, which could not directly coordinate with the campaign, as a massive amplifier of Bushs message that would put an early focus on positive ads. Right to Rise spent tens of millions last year rolling out spots that detailed Bushs record as governor. In January, the super PAC loaded a 15-minute documentary it produced called The Jeb Story onto individual media players and mailed them to supporters and donors in Iowa and New Hampshire. Many Republican strategists said the groups emphasis on Bushs record was dated and out of step with this elections bellicose climate. Bushs favorable rating actually plummeted over the course of the campaign, falling from 63 percent in July to 44 percent in January, according to Washington Post-ABC News polls of Republicans nationally. This is not the cycle for the gauzy positive bio spot, said GOP admaker Brad Todd. This is the cycle for showing how youre going to solve the crisis. When theres a wolf at the door, you deal with the wolf. [Super PACs have spent more than $215 million on the presidential race. Guess how much against Trump?] Right to Rise initially held back from hitting front-runner Donald Trump, a decision that drew sharp criticism from other party strategists. Of the nearly $87 million it spent on a blizzard of ads and mailers, $3.7 million went to spots that criticized Trump, according to the groups Federal Election Commission filings. (Super-PAC officials said that new anti-Trump ads were substituted for other ads, bringing the total up to $9.5 million.) Our early polling showed Trump voters were strongly anti-Jeb, so we thought if we spent the bulk of our ads attacking him, wed only drive voters to [Ted] Cruz and Marco [Rubio], Murphy said. Later, we did attack him far more than anybody else and had much more anti-Trump stuff ready to go. By Feb. 20, when Bush dropped out of the race, the super PAC had run through $101 million. FEC reports show nearly $74 million went to Oath Strategies, a limited liability company set up last June by GOP media buyer Patti Heck and longtime Murphy associate Brad Mont, who together placed the Right to Rise TV buys. Murphy does not have a stake in the company. Oath Strategies cut was less than 2 percent, according to two people familiar with the figures. Other major vendors included Redwave Communications, the Des Moines-based company run by Bush campaign adviser David Kochel, which got $4.5 million for direct mail and political strategy consulting. Since he worked for the campaign, Kochel was walled off from the super PACs activities and his colleague handled the Right to Rise work, officials said. In the coming months, Right to Rises finances and strategy will be closely dissected by political operatives questioning the impact a big-money super PAC can have on a race. But even some longtime competitors said there was little Murphy could have done to alter Bushs fate. It was just the wrong time for him, said veteran Democratic admaker David Doak, who faced off against Murphy in Florida and other campaigns. When youre in that situation, you try everything in your power to unlock the box youre in. Often you cant do it no matter how good you are, how much money you have. Anu Narayanswamy contributed to this report. Almost 11 years ago, the Supreme Court faced the same kind of ideological hinge point it confronts today. In June 2005, Sandra Day OConnor, after nearly 25 years as the key swing vote on many social issues, announced she was retiring, setting up a potentially brutal confirmation battle for her successor. Two months later, Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist died, creating what couldve been an even more dire situation. Instead, the next six months saw tough-but-fair hearings and two confirmations in relatively short order. The court never really lost its full allotment of nine justices. Thats largely because, a few months earlier, a bipartisan group of 14 rank-and-file senators seized control of the judicial wars from party leaders, steering the Senate away from constant brinkmanship on the federal courts. No such rump caucus exists today, as the death of Justice Antonin Scalia has left the two parties in a daggers-drawn posture over replacing the staunch conservative with a liberal or even a moderate justice. [Supreme Court nomination poses dilemma for Democrats] Four cases that could re-shape the country will be heard when the Supreme Court meets this term without Justice Antonin Scalia. Scalia consistently expressed conservative views when reviewing court cases. (Claritza Jimenez/The Washington Post) Some senators are looking back wistfully at last decades rank-and-file uprising. That suggests a road map, doesnt it? said Sen. Chris Coons (D-Del.), a relative newcomer who is exasperated by the ideological stalemate over replacing Scalia. One of the most junior members of the Judiciary Committee, Coons is searching for like-minded senators who dont have decades of scar tissue from previous judicial showdowns in a bid to try to replicate the work of the Gang of 14 in 2005. People who havent spent 30 years fighting with each other and can recite chapter and verse every previous offense, every previous assault, he said of his targets. But the odds are stacked heavily against him because the current Senate bears almost no resemblance to the one in 2005. Of the 14 senators who joined that rebellion then, just three remain in office: Susan Collins (R-Maine), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) and John McCain (R-Ariz.). The rest have either died, retired or werent reelected. And for the remaining gang members, the goodwill is mostly gone. I think the environment is too poisoned, the atmosphere is too poisoned, on all sides, McCain said. McCain said that he would only meet President Obamas eventual Supreme Court nominee as a polite courtesy and that he was otherwise staunchly behind Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnells (R-Ky.) call to leave Scalias seat vacant until the presidential race is decided. It would be pointless, McCain said of meeting the nominee. Graham has a similar view. This is not the time to replace a Supreme Court justice, in an election year. Its not consistent with the way the Senate has operated, he said. Former senator Ben Nelson (D-Neb.) is dismayed by the current state of affairs. No one has reached out to him to ask how he led the 2005 effort to pull the Senate out of its constitutional showdown over federal judges. Back then, as Democrats mounted an unprecedented filibuster blockade of George W. Bushs appellate court nominees, Republicans pushed for changing the rules to allow for confirmation on a simple majority vote. They wanted to deploy the nuclear option, as then-Sen. Trent Lott (R-Miss.) dubbed it, because they were going to change the rules on a party-line vote instead of the normal supermajority vote required to alter the rules. Bill Frist (R-Tenn.), then the majority leader, and Minority Leader Harry M. Reid (D-Nev.) had fully dug in for the fight; the atmosphere was toxic, and nothing was getting accomplished. Several senators began musing about a compromise, and one day Robert C. Byrd (D-W. Va.), the longest-serving senator in history, grabbed Nelson by the lapels. Governor, youve gotta do what you talked about, Byrd told the former Nebraska governor. Well, senator, Im new here. I dont know how you put something like that together, Nelson recalled telling Byrd, who died in 2010. He went to work with Lott, McCain and others that spring. The group knew from the outset that Rehnquist, then 80, was ill, while OConnor was 75 and Justice John Paul Stevens was 85. We need to do this, because well end up with a constitutional crisis. Not just with the appellate court here, but maybe the Supreme Court, Nelson said, describing the ethos of the moment. The Senate was split 55 to 45 in favor of Republicans. So if they got six senators from each party, they would have 51 votes to thwart Frists nuclear bid but also 61 votes to clear the filibuster on Bushs appellate court nominees. They ended up with seven from each side, and they werent just centrists trying to make good politics back home. Some had stature that rivaled or exceeded the leaders. John Warner (R-Va.), a former Navy secretary and chairman of the Armed Services Committee, literally locked arms with Byrd, a former majority leader, to walk to McCains office for the final negotiations. Lott, not formally part of the group, was the former majority leader who served as a freelance negotiator. Arlen Specter (Pa.), then a Republican chairing Judiciary, never declared how hed vote, leaving the count at 50 votes against and 49 in favor of the rules change. If Specter said yes, Richard B. Cheney would have cast a tie-breaking vote as Bushs vice president to give Frist his rules change. Instead, Specter joined Lott in advising the 14 senators and helped seal the deal. Six of Bushs nominees were quickly confirmed, two others withdrew and the gang agreed that only extraordinary circumstances would prompt a filibuster. Chief Justice John G. Roberts Jr. and Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. faced tough hearings, but each was confirmed relatively easily. The Senate went another six years before the minority party successfully blocked a judicial nominee through a filibuster. I just think there was more of an environment of working together to achieve results which both sides aimed for, McCain said of the 2005 era. Now, the Senate has few big personalities. McConnell and Reid hold more power over what happens on the Senate floor than any set of leaders in a generation. After Republicans fillibustered some Obama nominees, Reid flipped his opposition to the nuclear option and in 2013 changed the rules on a party-line vote that allowed for simple majorities to confirm everyone except Supreme Court justices. Of the 14 gang members, eight have been replaced by senators who are clearly more partisan. For example, Lincoln Chafee, then a moderate Republican, lost in 2006 to Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), one of the most outspoken liberals. Mark Pryor, a moderate Democrat, lost in 2014 to Sen. Tom Cotton (R-Ark.), a staunch conservative. Perhaps it reflects the change in times, or the shrinking of the center, Collins said. Coons recalls his first Judiciary Committee meeting in which the top senators traded charges dating back several decades. Hes one of 45 senators who have never been involved in a Supreme Court confirmation hearing, all with less than six years in office. Those are his targets for what, he hopes, will be a bid to reprise what Nelsons gang did. It was senators generally motivated by a concern about the health and functioning of the institution, he said. Theres talk of bad spray tans, sweat and urination. Accusations that a rival has ties to the mob. Theyve called one another little or a con artist. And they all agree that the other guys are liars. In the run-up to Super Tuesday, Republican presidential candidates Donald Trump and Sens. Marco Rubio (Fla.) and Ted Cruz (Tex.) are hurling deeply personal attacks about one anothers appearances and personal backgrounds amounting to a level of petty and profane discourse unprecedented in a presidential campaign. Voters express more sorrow than anger as the insults fly, while Republican Party leaders fear that the deteriorating tone of the race could have longer-term implications. I had hoped that this would be a campaign only about ideas and a vision for tomorrow. . . . But unfortunately, this has been a very different election year and things have worked out in ways no one anticipated, Rubio told supporters Sunday at Patrick Henry College in Purcellville, Va. Moments later, his rally quickly grew chaotic as protesters stood, shouted and waved signs reading, Marco Rubio Empty Suit. Supporters jeered at the protesters, while Rubio responded with a smile: My suit wasnt made in China. Its not a Trump suit. [With Trump leading in Virginia, Rubio makes a big play] The name-calling has long been the province of Trump, who has elevated the insult-tweet to an art form and who spent months tormenting now-departed candidate Jeb Bush as low energy and worse. But now Trumps two main rivals particularly Rubio have suddenly joined in, personally attacking the billionaire GOP front-runner, as Trump is poised for big wins in this weeks Super Tuesday primaries. I never thought I would see the Republican Party come to this, to act like children, said Gail Garner, 67, who attended a Rubio rally Saturday in Birmingham, Ala. It sounds like a bunch of kindergartners messing around on the playground. Party elders, already concerned about how Trumps rise could rob the GOP of a White House victory, said they worry about how Rubio and others are now adopting his tactics. The catfight going on in the Republican Party right now is just an embarrassment, said Fred Malek, finance chairman of the Republican Governors Association and a longtime major party donor. This is schoolyard stuff. Its disgusting and juvenile. Former Senate majority leader Trent Lott (R-Miss.), a supporter of Ohio Gov. John Kasich, said hes totally embarrassed by a lot of the things Trump has said, and I understand why Rubio is swinging to the fences, but to get into whos tall, whos short, whos got a decent haircut, whos sweaty I dont like it. On the trail, Cruz has repeatedly called Trump and Rubio liars, and on Sunday he suggested that Trump is refusing to disclose his tax returns because he has close business ties to the Mafia. Count the swipes Republican presidential candidates Marco Rubio and Donald Trump took at each other the day after they butted heads at the Houston CNN/Telemundo debate. (Sarah Parnass/The Washington Post) Maybe his tax returns show that those business dealings are a lot more extensive than has been reported, he told ABCs This Week. [Trump lives in the jet set, and hes not afraid to show it] Trump complained Sunday about the fresh attacks and suggested, as he has before, that he might leave the party if they keep up. Ive been very good. Ive been very straight and honest and honorable, and theyre not treating me well, he said about party leaders on CBSs Face the Nation. He accused Rubio of saying terrible things, just personal, terrible things. And I dont think its fair the way that the establishment is treating Donald Trump. On Twitter, however, Trump kept up the invective mocking Rubio as a little boy, a no-show senator and a lightweight. Another tweet said Cruz has accomplished absolutely nothing for his Texas constituents. At rallies in recent days, Trump also has repeatedly called Rubio Little Marco or Little Rubio. Rubio hit back Sunday night by mocking Trump at a rally at Roanoke College in Salem, Va., saying the businessman has tiny hands. You know what they say about men with small hands, Rubio said, pausing for laughter. You cant trust them. At a Sunday town hall meeting in Springfield, Mass., Kasich condemned Trumps meandering non-answer on Sunday to a question about his support from white supremacists. But he quickly described it as part of a generally nasty campaign, of rival candidates hurling so many insults back and forth. Asked whether he thought Rubios insults of Trump were inappropriate, Kasich told reporters to judge for themselves. All the screaming, and the yelling, and the name-calling, and the personal insults if thats what youre doing, then you need to wear it, he said. [That time Marco Rubio went full Trump on Donald Trump] Rubio especially has made his attacks more personal since deciding to go aggressively after Trump during the most recent Republican debate, on Thursday. The freshman senator on Friday read a series of Trump tweets aloud to thousands of supporters in downtown Dallas. He called Trump a con artist who spent his entire career sticking it to the little guy. He mocked Trumps tough-guy demeanor, saying the front-runner was the first guy who begged for Secret Service protection. During Thursdays debate, Rubio said that Trump needed extra makeup to cover up sweat and said Trump wanted a full-length mirror backstage to make sure his pants werent wet. On Saturday in Alabama, Rubio told voters in Birmingham that Ive used strong words. My parents didnt raise me that way, but I feel passionate about it. Then in Huntsville, he told voters that Trump should be worrying about the lines around his eyes from the horrible spray tan. Rubio supporters appear to be reluctantly accepting his shift in tone. Its like playground-at-the-school kind of behavior, said Haydee Wilensky, 57, of Purcellville. He needs to just focus on telling Republicans that Trump is not qualified. Trina Weir, 57, of Front Royal, Va., said, I hate to see the sophomoric activity like that, but after the smoke clears, lets see whos being more substantive. In Huntsville, Rubio supporter Jennifer Evans, 27, said the senator needs to attack because Trump is so insulting. He doesnt critique the other candidates, he just flat-out insults them. Said Lindsey Gorin, 33, in Huntsville: This wasnt what Marcos campaign was about. Hes an honest, good guy. He only brings up the spray tan because he wants to point out how stupid Trumps attacks are. Weigel reported from Springfield, Mass., and Birmingham and Huntsville, Ala. Philip Rucker in Kenneshaw, Ga., and Fenit Nirappil in Salem, Va., contributed to this report. Donald Trump during the press launch for Trump Mortgage LLC at Trump Tower in April 2006 in New York City. (Jemal Countess/WireImage) As some economists and Wall Street traders began to sense danger ahead of the crippling housing market collapse of 2008, Donald Trump waved away the worries and offered a concrete expression of confidence in the industry. In the spring of 2006, the tycoon hosted a glitzy event at Trump Tower to introduce Trump Mortgage LLC, a new firm that specialized in selling residential and commercial real estate loans. He devoted a floor of the Trump Organization headquarters at 40 Wall Street to the new business. And his picture appeared atop the company website with the instruction: Talk to My Mortgage Professionals now! I think its a great time to start a mortgage company, Trump told a CNBC interviewer in April 2006, adding that the real estate market is going to be very strong for a long time to come. Within 18 months, as the experts worst fears began to pan out and home prices began to dip, Trump Mortgage closed, leaving some bills unpaid and a spotty sales record that fell short of Trumps lofty predictions. Trump distanced himself from the firms demise, saying at the time that he had not been involved in the companys management and that its executives had performed poorly. As a presidential candidate a decade later, Trump says he would use the skills that made him successful in real estate to fix Washington. His decision to embrace the mortgage business illustrates the potential dangers of a business philosophy that has relied in part on a willingness to put aside the advice of experts and take risks. 1 of 45 Full Screen Autoplay Close Skip Ad Trump captures the nations attention on the campaign trail View Photos The Republican presidential candidate focuses on Super Tuesday state primaries after a win in Nevada. Caption Businessman Donald Trump officially became the Republican nominee at the partys convention in Cleveland. Donald Trump speaks at a campaign event at Trump Doral golf course in Miami. Carlo Allegri/Reuters Wait 1 second to continue. In attaching his brand to the residential mortgage market at the height of the bubble, Trump defied a growing chorus of pessimism among economic forecasters and cast his decision as a sign of his own good judgment. How you react to the so-called housing bubble can be a barometer of your business personality, he wrote in a September 2005 blog entry, months before the launch of Trump Mortgage. The post, published on the website of Trump University, the now-defunct business that provided seminars for aspiring real estate entrepreneurs, appeared under the headline The Housing Bubble: Doom and Gloom Dont Pay. Are you the type of person who takes advantage of positive situations when they present themselves, riding them out as long as they last? Or do you heed every message of doom and gloom, avoiding risks that could be some remarkable opportunities? Trump and officials from his campaign and business organization declined to comment. [Fact Checker: A trio of truthful attack ads on Trump University] Recently, as a candidate, Trump has presented himself as a truth teller who sounded an early alarm about the pending mortgage crisis. He told MSNBC last July that he had known the housing market was a bubble that was waiting to explode. I told a lot of people, Trump said. And I was right. You know, Im pretty good at that stuff. Trump revealed no such concern when he launched the mortgage firm in 2006. He batted away skepticism from CNBC anchor Maria Bartiromo, who had cited a 10 percent decline in new home sales in one recent month. I think the market is very good, Trump responded. Were going to have a great company. Its Trump Mortgage and trumpmortgage.com. And its going to be a terrific company,one he predicted would quickly become an industry leader. Trump derided economists during the broadcast, saying they were often unable to predict significant events. I went to the Wharton School of Finance. I was actually a very good student, believe it or not, but Ive never been a huge believer in forecasting whats going to happen because you really never know what happens down the road, he said. Trumps handpicked chief executive, E.J. Ridings, was similarly upbeat, boasting in interviews that the new company would own New York and expand to all 50 states, offering residential and commercial mortgages. Trump had been introduced to Ridings through his son Donald Jr., who at the time oversaw development and acquisitions for the Trump Organization. As it sought a toehold in the residential market, Trump Mortgage offered residential mortgages with promises of quick approvals. It recruited a team of aggressive salesmen. Jan Scheck, the national sales director for Trump Mortgage, hired teams of specialists around the country and helped the new firm as it sought to obtain licenses in multiple states. Like Trump, Scheck thought at the time that the new company could be a major player. Scheck recalled being awed as he stood alongside Trump at the opening news conference at Trump Tower in 2006. I told myself, This is an awesome opportunity with somebody who is a god in the real estate industry, Scheck said. People were buying Trump ties. . . . You have to remember, this is the peak of his popularity. Everybody wanted to be Donald Trump. Donald was putting his name on buildings all over the country. I thought this was going to be an awesome opportunity. Scheck said that the floor devoted to Trump Mortgage was divided into two units. One side was an upscale residential and commercial mortgage business, which Scheck ran. The other side was known internally as the boiler room, where employees often made cold calls to people seeking to refinance or originate loans, many of them sub-prime, meaning the borrowers had poor credit histories. Trump met with Scheck for an extended discussion before the initial news conference. But after that, Scheck said, he rarely saw the elder Trump. Scheck left Trump Mortgage after a year, as did other managers, some of whom said they were disappointed with the leadership of Ridings. Shortly before the company closed in 2007, Money Magazine reported that Ridings had inflated his qualifications. The Trump Mortgage website had described the CEO as having 15 years of financial experience, including serving as a top executive of one of Wall Streets most prestigious investment banks, but, according to the report, Ridings had worked for a boutique mortgage company and had been a stockbroker for Dean Witter Reynolds for just six months. Ridings did not respond to repeated requests for comment. Because Trump Mortgage served as a broker rather than a mortgage lender, there are few records of its activities. Lenders are required to file detailed records of their activities with federal regulators, but brokers are exempt from many of those reporting requirements. The company appeared to fall short of the goals initially set by its top executives. At the time of its launch, Ridings told interviewers in the New York media that he hoped to do $3 billion in commercial and residential mortgage business in the first year, with two-thirds of the revenue coming on the residential side. He envisioned the firm expanding across the country and the globe. Later, Trump told the Wall Street Journal that he would consider starting a lending operation tied to the brokerage. At the end of the first year in business, all of that had changed. Ridings told the New York business media that the firm did only about $1 billion in business. The touted expansion never happened. When Trump Mortgage closed in 2007, Trump blamed the people he hired to run the company. We werent happy with them and we terminated them based on the fact they were not doing what they said they were going to do, he told a New York trade publication, the Real Deal, in September 2007. After Trump Mortgage closed, Trump tried again to enter the world of mortgage lending, licensing his name to a firm once known as Meridian Mortgage, which would also be known as Trump Financial for a few years going forward. It was led by an experienced New York mortgage executive, David Brecher. But like its predecessor, Trump Financial quietly ceased operations. I think it would have been a great business, Brecher told The Washington Post in a recent interview. But the timing was just not that great, just before the crash. The Trump Mortgage closure continued to reverberate following the crash, for at least one former employee. Jennifer McGovern, who had been a mortgage seller, filed suit, saying that she was fired before she could receive $238,000 of promised compensation for a commercial real estate deal she negotiated. McGovern, a mother of three, won a judgment in 2008 by a New York State Supreme Court judge, who ordered that she be paid $298,274. But the bill was not paid. The company was set up in a way that we could never recover what we were owed, she said. In addition to McGoverns unpaid claim, Trump Mortgage owed $3,555 in unpaid taxes, according to a Treasury Department tax lien filed in 2009. The idea that the company would fail to pay her or others seemed unfathomable to McGovern in 2006, she said. She recalled her excitement after meeting with Trump for a pep talk at the Trump Mortgage headquarters on Wall Street. He told us if we worked hard we would all do well, she said. Alice Crites contributed to this report. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, left, looks on as a Trump supporter reaches for a sign that reads "Islamophobia is not the answer" at a rally in Oklahoma City on Friday. (Sue Ogrocki/AP) At a rally in southwest Virginia on Monday, Republican front-runner Donald Trump again told an apocryphal story about a general killing Muslim terrorists with bullets dipped in pigs blood. In Tennessee on Saturday, he promised to bar Syrians from the country until we find out what the hell is going on. In Oklahoma City the night before, he launched into a passionate defense of waterboarding after a protester flashed a sign reading Islamophobia is not the answer. And every time, the crowd roared with deafening cheers. Along with his attacks on illegal immigrants, Trumps willingness to go further than any of his GOP rivals in casting suspicions on Muslims has horrified many Republican establishment figures and has attracted widespread condemnation from both parties. But for many Trump supporters, the GOP front-runners harsh rhetoric on Muslims is one of the keys to his appeal, especially among evangelicals who feel that Christians are under siege and hampered by political correctness. Those feelings are probably a big part of the reason Trump is leading most of the 11 primary contests being held Tuesday, especially those in the South. Mr. Trump is not against Muslims. . . . Not all Muslims are bad, but ISIS, they are Muslims, so I have to think we have to group them together now, said Charlie Shane, 21, a junior at Texas Tech University who decided to vote for Trump when he promised to bomb the Islamic State, also known as ISIS and ISIL.Hes trying to keep Americans safe. Our lives are more important than theirs, and thats just the reality. A man listens as Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a campaign event in Madison, Ala., on Sunday. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post) Trump has not only promised to bomb the s--- out of ISIS he would also kill the loved ones of suspected jihadists. He would bring back waterboarding which is forbidden by U.S. and international law but which Trump considers minimal, minimal, minimal torture and would do much worse to suspected terrorists. He would temporarily ban most foreign Muslims from entering the country and would heavily surveil and possibly close some U.S. mosques. I think we need to, because thats where its coming from, said Jan Osban, 68, a retired nurse who attended Trumps rally in Oklahoma City on Friday and plans to vote for him. They use a religion to justify killing people. . . . Theyre so insidious that they can be right here and you dont know it until too late. [Spray tans, pants-wetting and little hands: The GOP race goes in the gutter] The Muslim American community has been rushing to combat such statements, often with the help of interfaith partners. But they are struggling to match the wave of fear that has consumed much of the Republican base. The American Muslim community has never felt this level of apprehension and fear, said Ibrahim Hooper, spokesman for the Council on American-Islamic Relations. It really is open season, rhetorically, on American Muslims and Islam. Newt Livesay, a 73-year-old veteran and custom-knife maker who attended Trumps rally in northwest Arkansas on Saturday afternoon and plans to vote for him in Tuesdays primary there, said he has known many Muslims over the years, including his doctor, who is as nice and as good a doctor as Ive ever had. But he distrusts Muslims living in the Middle East who could have ties to the Islamic State. Somebody said, Well, we ought to make them our friend, Livesay said. No, we need to make these people fear us. Trump speaks during a campaign watch party on the day of the Nevada Republican caucus in Las Vegas last Tuesday. (Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post) Early in Trumps candidacy, much of his most incendiary rhetoric focused on illegal immigrants, whom he described as violent criminals that he would kick out of the country and keep at bay with a massive wall along the southern border. He only tested the waters with comments about Muslims, sometimes coyly suggesting that President Obama is Muslim rather than Christian. But his tenor changed and hardened as Europe grappled with the sudden influx of millions of Syrian refugees, most of them Muslim, fleeing a violent war in their homeland. Democratic candidates called on the United States to accept thousands more refugees, while most Republican candidates, including Trump, said the United States is not equipped to take on any more. [Trump says torture works, backs waterboarding and much worse] At a Trump rally in New Hampshire in late September, a man in the crowd bellowed: We have a problem in this country its called Muslims! The man then called the president a Muslim and warned of Muslim training camps. Trump laughed off the comments as the crowd clapped. Two weeks later at another rally in New Hampshire, Trump declared that as president he would kick all Syrian refugees out of the country and bar any more from entering, saying they could be a secret terrorist army. That provided some of his loudest applause of the night. In November, Trump repeatedly promised to bomb the Islamic State. Then came the Paris terrorist attacks and the mass shooting in San Bernardino, Calif., both of which were tied to the Islamic State. Trump called for greater scrutiny of mosques and newly arrived Muslims, along with urging the United States to kill the relatives and loved ones of terrorists. Finally in early December, Trump called for a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States until our countrys representatives can figure out what is going on. The idea was quickly denounced by the party establishment and embraced by many Republican voters. Nearly 60 percent of Republicans supported the proposal, according to a Washington Post-ABC News poll conducted in December. Exit polls from recent primaries have shown similar levels of support. On the night before the South Carolina primary, Trump held a rally in North Charleston and told a story to illustrate his support of waterboarding: U.S. Gen. John J. Pershing once captured 50 terrorists, dipped 50 bullets in pigs blood, then shot 49 of the terrorists, sending one home to warn others. Historians have found no evidence that this event occurred, and many Muslim Americans have denounced its message. Nonetheless, Trump repeated the story Monday in Virginia. [Donald Trump calls for a total ban on Muslims entering the United States] During the South Carolina primary, held on the same day as Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalias funeral, Trump tweeted: I wonder if President Obama would have attended the funeral of Justice Scalia if it were held in a Mosque? Trump decisively won in South Carolina, and exit polling found that three-quarters of Republican voters there supported a temporary ban on Muslims entering the country. Many self-described evangelicals seem particularly open to Trumps rhetoric about Muslims. He promises to protect Christianity and turn the United States into a place where shop clerks wish you a Merry Christmas, and his rallies always open with a prayer. At a rally in Myrtle Beach, S.C., in February, local evangelical pastor Mark Burns mentioned Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, who is Jewish, and then said, Youre going to make sure we elect a man who believes in the name of Jesus Christ. At a rally in southern Georgia on Monday night, Trump told a screaming crowd of several thousand that Christians and evangelicals should have more political power. Why is it that we get pushed around? For instance, I made the statement about Muslims, Trump said, adding that he respects the religion and has friends who practice. But theres something going wrong here, folks. And I said: We have to do something temporarily. We have to find out whats going wrong. We cant let the Syrians come in. A Pew Research Center survey in 2014 used a feeling thermometer to measure how various Americans feel about Muslims, and white evangelical Christian reported having the coolest feelings. Many evangelicals also feel under siege in a fast-evolving culture where gay marriage is now legal and non-Christian holidays are added to some school calendars. Were being attacked. We are literally being attacked, said Linda Barnett, 67, a Trump supporter from Moore, Okla., who works for a ministry group and has long been skeptical of Islam. She is encouraged by Trumps approach. I totally agree with him, Barnett said. The ones that are already over here, they say, Were peace-loving people. Im sorry, Im sorry if they believe in the Koran, there is nothing peace-loving about them, because the Koran is not peace-loving. The Koran is to destroy everybody that is not Muslim. . . . So if they throw a fit about us watching them and following them around, well then go back to where youre supposed to live. Barnett attended Trumps rally Friday night in Oklahoma City. As Trump warned of the migration, a young man sitting behind him held up a sign reading Islamophobia is not the answer. The crowd erupted in anger. Another young man grabbed the sign, crumpled it and triumphantly waved it over his head. Another ripped it to pieces while Trump stopped speaking and turned around to watch. As police escorted the protester away, the crowd chanted: Trump! Trump! Trump! You see, in the good old days, law enforcement acted a lot quicker than this. A lot quicker. In the good old days, theyd rip him out of that seat so fast but today, everybodys politically correct, Trump said, adding that police are afraid to do their jobs. Our countrys going to hell with being politically correct. Going to hell. Police should not be afraid to properly do their jobs, he said, just like U.S. interrogators should not hesitate to waterboard suspected terrorists. We are really becoming a frightened country, Trump said, and its very, very sad. Michelle Boorstein, Scott Clement and Sarah Pulliam Bailey contributed to this report. Migrants inside Greece tear down a barrier at the Macedonian border Monday as they tried to make their way further into Europe. Macedonian authorities responded with tear gas. (Louisa Gouliamaki/AFP/Getty Images) Germanys interior minister urged North African leaders Monday to streamline procedures to accept more deported migrants as part of stepped-up efforts by Germany to cope with a flood of refugees and others pouring into Europe. The appeal comes as European nations take measures to control the unprecedented exodus of migrants and asylum seekers from war-racked places such as Syria and Iraq. Police in Macedonia fired tear gas and stun grenades Monday when several hundred migrants tried to break through a blockade on the countrys border with Greece, the main entry point for migrants often seeking to reach Germany and other wealthy European Union partners. [Migrants find door shutting across Europe] German Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere, who began a three-day trip by visiting Morocco before flying Monday to Algeria, wants North African nations to roll back bureaucratic hurdles on accepting deported migrants. De Maiziere plans to travel to Tunisia on Tuesday. He also wants to declare Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia safe countries. This would make it possible to have accelerated reviews of asylum requests from citizens of the three countries and return many of them home. Germany is struggling to cope with more than 1.1 million refugees and economic migrants who arrived in the past year. Human rights organizations, however, have harshly criticized the German plan. These countries arent safe. Human rights are disregarded on a regular basis there, and people are being tortured, said Gunter Burkhardt, managing director of the refugee advocacy group Pro Asyl. In Morocco, de Maiziere told reporters that an agreement was reached with officials, including Prime Minister Abdelilah Benkirane, to speed the return of Moroccan nationals. The two countries would cooperate in establishing the identity of migrants with the help of fingerprint data kept by Moroccan authorities. The Moroccan side has agreed to reply within 45 days, de Maiziere said. He added that the measure would particularly target Moroccan asylum seekers who arrived last year, including some who had pretended to be Syrians fleeing the civil war. [Diplomatic skirmishes along the migrant front lines] The numbers of newcomers to Germany from North African countries, especially from Morocco and Algeria, rose sharply at the end of last year, with more than 26,000 in total arriving. Although fewer than 4 percent of asylum seekers from Morocco, Algeria and Tunisia were granted some form of refugee status, the number of deportations was low: 136 migrants were sent back to their home countries from Germany, and an additional 250 were sent to other E.U. states. The North African countries are not the only ones Germany is trying to persuade to take back more people. According to Die Welt newspaper, the German government recently sent letters to 17 particularly problematic African and Asian states, calling for more intensive cooperation on deportations of rejected migrants. German government officials would not confirm how many letters have been sent and to which countries. But they conceded that several states were slow to identify their nationals and issue the travel papers needed for repatriations. Germany had urged the countries to accept temporary E.U. travel documents, the officials said. Last week, a chartered flight with 125 Afghans left Germany for Kabul as part of a program to help migrants return home voluntarily. The German government paid for the flight, and participants also received about $540. The initiative was brokered by de Maiziere during an earlier visit to the Afghan capital. Last month, North Rhine-Westphalias interior minister, Ralf Jager, announced that his western German state would no longer take any asylum seekers from Morocco, citing fears about rising crime. The move followed mass sexual assaults on women in Cologne on New Years Eve; many of the assailants were thought to be from North African countries. More than 25 major technology firms, media organizations and civil liberties groups are filing briefs this week in support of Apples effort to block the U.S. government from forcing the company to help unlock an iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino terrorists. Microsoft, Verizon, Facebook, Google, Amazon.com and Yahoo are among the tech and telecom giants preparing to file or join friend-of-the-court briefs, according to industry lawyers. Those involved say the swell of support is unparalleled, especially for a case at the magistrate judge level the lowest level of the federal court system. The filings also indicate the level of anxiety among companies about the possibility of a legal precedent greatly expanding the limits of what the government can force a company to do in criminal and national security probes. Meanwhile, law enforcement groups and families of some of the 14 killed in the Dec. 2 attack in San Bernardino, Calif., are filing briefs in support of the government. At issue is whether prosecutors and the FBI, citing a law that dates to 1789, can force Apple to write computer code to disable a safety feature on an iPhone recovered after the attack, which killed 14 people. The bureau wants to have a chance to crack the phones passcode to get at the encrypted contents on the device. On Feb. 25, Apple filed a motion opposing a court order to help the FBI unlock the iPhone belonging to a San Bernardino shooter. Here's everything you need to know about Apple vs. the FBI. (Jhaan Elker/The Washington Post) But the industry is concerned. They know that if Apple can be forced to do this, they can be forced to do something similar, said one industry lawyer, who spoke on the condition of anonymity to discuss internal deliberations. He said he thought Apples case was strong. Today its the phone from San Bernardino, he said. Tomorrow it might be a Microsoft operating system on a suspects tablet. Its Write code, please, that helps us break in more easily, he said. Thats the headline. But opinions are mixed. Some legal experts said that the government appears to have the stronger case. In general, I think that the FBI is trying to enforce a lawful order that was obtained following a warrant procedure, said William Banks, a professor of national security law at Syracuse University. He was referring to the court order issued less than two weeks ago by a magistrate judge in Riverside, Calif., demanding that Apple write code to dismantle a feature that wipes all data from a phone after repeatedly failed tries to enter a password. Former Justice Department official Jennifer Daskal said both sides are overstating their arguments. The government is wrong to say this is just about one case, said Daskal, a law professor at American University. On the other hand, it is wrong to say that if Apple loses this case, theres absolutely no limits to what the government can order a company to do in cases involving encrypted communications. Nonetheless, both sides are girding for a protracted court fight, one that could make it to the Supreme Court. Friend-of-the-court briefs are due by Friday, and on Apples side, a diverse array of groups will argue that the Justice Departments order is unconstitutional, has no basis in statute and that the issue is one best settled by Congress. One argument that companies and civil liberties groups are expected to make is that if the governments order is upheld, then the FBI might be able to order a technology firm to create, say, malicious software to send to a users device in the form of a routine update. That is the third rail for tech companies to be forced to deliver a software update that breaks the security of the device, said Alex Abdo, a staff attorney for the American Civil Liberties Union, which is also filing a brief in support of Apple. Some of the companies are expected to argue that the Constitutions due-process clause prohibits the government from conscripting them into the service of the government to build products for them. The Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press and the Electronic Frontier Foundation, a privacy group, are expected to argue that code is speech and that the First Amendment bars the government from forcing Apple to write code that would undo safety features it built into its devices. The media concern, industry lawyers said, is that the government could force a news organization to, say, plant a false story to lure out a suspect. Former National Security Agency general counsel Stewart Baker said the government isnt objecting to the message of the phones password, he said. Its objecting to the real-world effect of the code. There are human rights concerns as well, lawyers said. If a company is forced to build software for the U.S. government, it would potentially be available to a foreign government such as China, which uses surveillance tools to monitor dissidents. Apple, the argument goes, could not refuse to allow the Chinese government access to such a tool without putting its employees in China at risk of retaliation. And if it acquiesces, dissidents and activists in China would be put at risk. These issues are so important that they should not be left to judicial interpretation, Apples supporters argue. We need 21st-century laws that address 21st-century technology issues, Microsoft President Brad Smith told lawmakers Thursday. And we need these laws to be written by Congress. Daskal agreed. These are really hard issues, she said, and this is really about balancing different security interests against one another. Amazon founder Jeffrey P. Bezos owns The Washington Post. A federal judge in New York ruled in favor of Apple on Monday, saying that an obscure Colonial-era law did not authorize him to force the firm to lift data from an iPhone at the governments request. The ruling is not binding in any other court, but it takes on an outsize importance as the U.S. government battles Apple in a separate case in California over whether the tech firm should help unlock a phone used by one of the shooters in the San Bernardino terrorist attack in December. The two cases involve different versions of iPhones operating system and vastly different requests for technical help, but they both turn on whether a law from 1789 known as the All Writs Act can be applied to cases in which the government cannot get at encrypted data stored on suspects devices. Magistrate Judge James Orenstein in Brooklyn, who sits in the Eastern District of New York, has become the first federal judge to rule that the act does not permit a court to order companies to pull encrypted data off a customers phone or tablet. In a 50-page opinion disdainful of the governments arguments, Orenstein found that the All Writs Act does not apply in instances where Congress had the opportunity but failed to create an authority for the government to get the type of help it was seeking, such as having firms ensure they have a way to obtain data from encrypted phones. On Feb. 25, Apple filed a motion opposing a court order to help the FBI unlock the iPhone belonging to a San Bernardino shooter. Here's everything you need to know about Apple vs. the FBI. (Jhaan Elker/The Washington Post) He wrote that the governments interpretation of the 200-year-old law was absurd in that it would authorize what they were seeking even if every member of Congress had voted against granting such authority. It would, he added, undermine the more general protection against tyranny that the Founders believed required the careful separation of governmental powers. [Read the magistrates order in favor of Apple] He also found that ordering Apple to help the government by extracting data from the iPhone which belonged to a drug dealer would place an unreasonable burden on the company. None of the factors he reviewed in the case, Orenstein said, justifies imposing on Apple the obligation to assist the governments investigation against its will. A Justice Department spokeswoman said the department was disappointed in the ruling and would appeal. As our prior court filings make clear, Apple expressly agreed to assist the government in accessing the data on this iPhone as it had many times before in similar circumstances and only changed course when the governments application for assistance was made public by the court, spokeswoman Emily Pierce said in a statement. This phone may contain evidence that will assist us in an active criminal investigation and we will continue to use the judicial system in our attempt to obtain it. Alex Abdo, staff attorney with the American Civil Liberties Union, said Orensteins ruling sends a strong message that the government cant circumvent the national debate by trying to manufacture new authorities through the courts. Following Orensteins reasoning, Abdo said, If the court rejects the governments request in New York, then the FBIs request in San Bernardino is necessarily illegal, too. But other analysts say that other courts could well rule in the opposite direction. In Riverside, Calif., Magistrate Judge Sheri Pym, at the Justice Departments request, last month issued an order requiring Apple to build software to override a safety feature in a different iPhone operating system to enable the FBI to try its hand at cracking the phones password. The government had never before asked a firm to build software to undo a security feature that it had built in to protect a phones encrypted data. In this case, the feature wipes data from the phone after 10 incorrect tries to guess the password. Experts said that once the feature was overridden, it should take about 20 to 30 minutes to crack a four-digit password. Apple fears that if it is forced to comply with that request, countless more will follow to help it unlock phones in even routine criminal investigations. The prospect that the California ruling could go against Apple has tech firms rushing to file briefs in support of Apple by Thursdays filing deadline. Because of the nature of the request, the outcome of the California case is more significant than the Brooklyn case, analysts say. It has the potential to alter the landscape permanently, said Al Gidari, a former partner at Perkins Coie who represented tech firms and is now at Stanford University. The Brooklyn case began last fall when Orenstein, one of a handful of magistrates across the country who are activists in the surveillance debate, received the governments application to issue an order to Apple. What seemed like a routine request after all, this was a phone using an operating system, iOS7, that Apple had bypassed for the federal government at least 70 times before suddenly hit a roadblock. In an Oct. 9 ruling, Orenstein identified what he thought was a problem with the governments argument. Though prosecutors cited a 1985 decision that found that the All Writs Act is a source of authority to issue writs not otherwise covered by statute, he said they failed to cite another part of the decision that found that the act does not authorize the issuance of ad hoc writs whenever compliance with statutory procedures appears inconvenient or less appropriate. Thus, he said, the question was whether the government was seeking to fill a gap that Congress had failed to consider, or instead sought to have the court give it authority that Congress chose not to confer. He noted that since at least the mid-1990s, Congress has debated how far the government may go to require companies to help it with surveillance and wiretap capabilities. In fact, a 1994 law, the Communications Assistance to Law Enforcement Act, was a compromise that applied only to phone companies and later to broadband carriers, but it expressly carved out Internet companies. And he noted that last year, lawmakers introduced bills that precluded the government from forcing companies such as Apple from building in ways to circumvent encryption on devices. The Obama administration last fall decided it would hold off on introducing such legislation. Thus, Orenstein wrote last fall, the drug-dealer phone case falls in the murkier area in which Congress is plainly aware of the lack of a law that expressly authorizes the type of help the government was seeking, and had failed to create or reject such a law. Apple has said that since last October, it has received federal requests to extract data in cases pertaining to at least 15 devices, some of them using the older operating systems, and some of them running on iOS8 or iOS9. The newer systems were designed in such a way that Apple could not bypass the passcode to extract data. The San Bernardino phone ran on an iOS9. A tearful University of Virginia student detained in North Korea confessed, in a highly orchestrated news conference Monday, to the very severe and pre-planned crime of trying to steal a propaganda sign from a hotel in Pyongyang. Otto Warmbier, a 21-year-old economics major, had not been seen since he was arrested at Pyongyang airport on Jan. 2, at the end of a five-day tour to North Korea. The trip was a stopover on his way to Hong Kong, where he was to take part in a university-sponsored financial class. But it wasnt until three weeks later that Kim Jong Uns regime announced it was holding the Ohio native for an unspecified hostile act against the state. In the meantime, North Korea has conducted a nuclear test and a long-range missile launch, inflaming tensions with the outside world. Escorted by North Korean guards into a news conference in Pyongyang on Monday, Warmbier, reading from handwritten notes, said he had tried to steal a political sign promoting the [North] Korean peoples love for their system from the hotel. [North Koreas recipe for bargaining: Detainee, script, TV cameras] A University of Virginia student confessed to a "severe crime" during an orchestrated news conference in North Korea on Feb. 29. Here's how other U.S. citizens detained in North Korea have apologized to the country in recent years. (Victoria Walker/The Washington Post) The aim of my task was to harm the motivation and work ethic of the Korean people. This was a very foolish aim, Warmbier said. He was wearing a beige jacket with a shirt and tie and was cleanshaven. He appeared to be in good health. Americans who previously have been detained in North Korea have also been brought out to the news media to confess their crimes, with the detainees told what to say and the reporters told what to ask. After saying he had made the worst mistake of my life as he asked for forgiveness, Warmbier performed a deep bow in front of the mainly North Korean reporters. Analysts say Warmbier was probably told what to say and how to deliver the bizarre statement, in which the student said he was impressed by North Koreas humanitarian treatment of severe criminals like myself and referred to the connivance of the United States administration. Such confessions, which are repeatedly played on North Korean television for domestic propaganda purposes, are usually a necessary step before detainees can be released. However, recent detainees have had to go through a show trial and conviction before being freed. Warmbiers parents, Fred and Cindy, have not been able to contact their son since his arrest and released a statement through U-Va. in which they urged North Korea to release him. I hope the fact that he has conveyed his sincere apology for anything that he may have done wrong will now make it possible for the DPRK authorities to allow him to return home, the statement said, using the official acronym for North Korea and written in the voice of Fred. I urge the DPRK government to consider his youth and make an important humanitarian gesture by allowing him to return to his loved ones. Otto Warmbier, a University of Virginia student who has been detained in North Korea since early January, bows during a new conference in Pyongyang, North Korea, in this photo released by Kyodo Feb. 29, 2016. Warmbier was detained for trying to steal a propaganda slogan from his Pyongyang hotel. (Kyodo/Reuters) In his appearance before the media, Otto Warmbier said he had been instructed by a female member of Friendship United Methodist Church in Wyoming, Ohio, to steal one of North Koreas ubiquitous propaganda signs and take it back to the United States as a trophy. All across North Korea, from factories and government offices to hillsides and intersections, there are propangandistic slogans lauding the ruling Kim regime, which maintains power through an all-encompassing personality cult. Speaking ill of the Kims or even folding a newspaper so the leaders face is halved is treasonous. Taking the banner would harm the unity and motivation of the North Korean people and show this country an insult from the West, Warmbier said, adding that the plan had the U.S. governments approval. [After nuclear test, Park has epiphanies on North Korea and China] The church member would give him a used car worth $10,000 if he stole the sign and would pay $200,000 to his mother if he was arrested in the process. Warmbier said his familys very severe financial difficulties made him do it. I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money, he said, adding that his family would not be paid if he mentioned the churchs involvement. He also said that the Z Society, a student group at U-Va., clandestinely encouraged my act. [When it comes to punishing North Korea, its Groundhog Day] The slogan was on a staff-only floor of the Yanggakdo hotel, which is called Alcatraz by regular foreign visitors because it is situated on an island in the river that runs through Pyongyang and impossible to get off without detection. He reportedly pulled the banner from the wall but realized it was too big to carry off, so he abandoned it there. Warmbier was on a trip organized by Young Pioneers Tours, one of a handful of travel companies that take adventurous tourists into North Korea. The company, which had previously referred to an incident at the hotel, said it had nothing to add following Warmbier's statement. In Washington, White House press secretary Josh Earnest said that the U.S. government, which does not have diplomatic relations with North Korea, was working with the Swedish Embassy, which represents American interests there, on the case. The voyages of the Dawnlight: Where is it headed? And what is it carrying? U.S. calls proposed sanctions on N. Korea a major upgrade China, U.S. cite progress on N. Korea sanctions deal. But theres no quick fix. In an interview Thursday with Univision-owned Fusion, former Mexican president Vicente Fox lashed out at Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's proposal to make Mexico pay for a border wall. "I declare, I'm not going to pay for that fing wall," Fox told Fusion's Jorge Ramos. "He should pay for it. He's got the money." Fox went on to say that the Hispanics who voted for Trump in the Nevada caucus are "followers of aprophet" who will lead them into the desert. Read More: Oscars: Vice President Joe Biden to Introduce Lady Gaga Performance Trump fired back at Fox on Twitter, saying, "Vicente Fox horribly used the F word when discussing the wall. He must apologize. If I did that there would be a uproar." FMR PRES of Mexico, Vicente Fox horribly used the F word when discussing the wall. He must apologize! If I did that there would be a uproar! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 25, 2016 Fox is the second former Mexican president to criticize Trump's plan to make Mexico pay for a wall. Earlier this month, ex-president Felipe Calderon said Mexico won't pay a single cent for a "stupid wall." Vice President Joe Biden, who was in Mexico on Thursday for economic talks, spoke about "dangerous, damaging and incredibly ill-advised presidential campaign rhetoric," but he didn't single out Trump, according to an AFP report. AFP quoted Biden as saying, "This too shall pass ... we have gone through these episodes of xenophobia, but they have always been overcome." Ramos, the Fusion anchor interviewing Fox, was kicked out of a Trump press conference in August when he tried to ask questions about Trump's controversial anti-immigrant remarks made during a speech in June to announce his candidacy. Read More: Donald Trump's Anti-Immigrant Remarks Spark Outrage in Mexico America and Kate Winslets long nightmare is over: After five previous attempts, Leonado DiCaprio finally has an Oscar to call his own. The 41-year-old actor chased down that dish of raw bison liver with a Best Actor trophy for his rugged performance in The Revenant, a win that was expected and yet still satisfying based on the miles DiCaprio has had to travel to get to the podium. Not that he complained about the wait. Thank you all so very much, he told the crowd, which had risen to its collective feet for a standing ovation. Thank you to the Academy, thank you to all of you in this room. (Watch our video about his speech above.) DiCaprios quest for Oscar gold began way back in 1994, when he emerged from a career as a child actor on sitcoms like Growing Pains and Parenthood to earn accolades and a Supporting Actor nomination for his memorable performance as a developmentally disabled teen in Whats Eating Gilbert Grape. He lost that award to Tommy Lee Jones in The Fugitive, and wound up waiting another decade to climb back into the awards conversation. (He famously missed out on a Best Actor nomination for James Camerons Oscar-sweeping 1996 weepie Titanic, although his co-star and off-screen buddy, Winslet, received a nod.) Watch the full speech below: Related: Leo DiCaprio and the Deserved Oscar He returned to the ranks of Oscar nominees in 2005 for The Aviator, his sophomore collaboration with Martin Scorsese. He watched that statue go to Jamie Foxx for Ray and remained in the audience again two years later when Forest Whitakers Last King of Scotland performance triumphed over his own in Blood Diamond. Perhaps the hardest loss came two years ago, when DiCaprios turbo-charged star turn in The Wolf of Wall Street couldnt power its way past Matthew McConaughey in Dallas Buyers Club. (He was also nominated and lost as a producer on Wolf of Wall Street.) As a reward for suffering through all those losses (and The Revenants famously tortured production), Oscar voters decided it was DiCaprios time. And the actor was as gracious in victory as he was in his defeats, taking care to thank his fellow nominees off the top before paying homage to co-star Tom Hardy and director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu. To my brother in this endeavor, Mr. Tom Hardy. Your fierce talent onscreen can only be surpassed by your friendship off-screen. And commenting on Inarritus historic back-to-back win, he remarked, You have forged your way into history these past two years. DiCapro went on to honor some of the other key collaborators in his life, including Martin Scorsese and his manager, Rick Yorn. But the most dramatic moment came towards the end of his speech, when he spoke forcefully about a cause thats long been near and dear to his heart: climate change. The Revenant was about a mans relationship to the natural world, a world that we collectively felt in 2015 as the hottest year in recorded history. Our production needed to move to the southern tip of this planet just to be able to find snow.Climate change is real. It is happening right now. It is the most urgent threat facing our entire species, and we need to work collectively together and stop procrastinating. I thank you all for this amazing award tonight. Let us not take this planet for granted. I do not take tonight for granted. Move over, Ricky Gervais: Chris Rock is the most feared awards show host in Hollywood right now. Even before the outspoken actor/director/comic stepped on the Dolby Theatres massive stage to MC the 88th Academy Awards on Sunday night, he had all of the film industry including the normally unflappable Harvey Weinstein quaking in its boots. Specifically, attendees fretted about and looked forward to how Rock planned to address the raging #OscarsSoWhite controversy thats swirled around this years ceremony since the nominations were announced in January, and immediately engendered controversy for their lack of diversity. Rocks cryptic Tweets and Instagram photos leading up to the Oscars only heightened the speculation about his opening remarks. And he wasted no time addressing the elephant in the room with a searing monologue that may well rank up there with the awards best: Im here at the Academy Awards, otherwise known as the White Peoples Choice Awards. If they nominated hosts, I wouldnt even get this job. Youd all be watching Neil Patrick Harris right now! (Watch it above.) Rock went on to acknowledge that he had the craziest Oscar hosting gig and addressed the debate about whether he should have passed on the assignment. People [said], You should boycott. Chris, you should quit. I realized that its only unemployed people who tell you to quit! I thought about quitting, I thought about it really hard. But I realized theyre going to have the Oscars anyway, and the last thing I need is to lose another job to Kevin Hart. The jokes didnt stop there: Rock devoted his entire monologue to the subject of diversity in Hollywood, putting it in context of the Oscars long history. Why this Oscars? Its the 88th Academy Awards, which means this whole no-black-nominees thing has happened at least 71 other times. Youve got to figure it happened in the 50s and the 60s. And black people did not protest. You know why? Because we had real things to protest at the time. We were too busy being raped and lynched to care about who won Best Cinematographer. Story continues He also name-checked the famous black celebrities who declined to attend this year. Spike [Lee] got mad. Jada [Pinkett Smith] got mad. Will [Smith] got mad. Jada said shes not coming. Jada boycotting the Oscar is like me boycotting Rihannas panties. I wasnt invited! Rock then advanced a modest proposal for how to increase diversity: Make black categories like Best Black Friend. Winning for the 18th year in a row is Wanda Sykes! Is Hollywood racist? Youre damn right Hollywood is racist. But not the racism youre accustomed to. Its sorority racist. At the end of that stemwinder of a monologue, Rock struck a hopeful note. Things are changing. We got a black Rocky this year. Some people call it Creed, I call it Black Rocky. Rocky takes place in a world where white athletes are as good as black athletes. Rocky is a science-fiction movie! There are things that happen in Star Wars that are more believable. He wrapped it up with a simple plea: We want opportunity. We want the black actors to get the same opportunities as white actors. Thats it. Rock wasnt the only person with stern words for the academy on diversity on Sunday. At a rally held down the street from the ceremony, Al Sharpton told the crowd, This will be the last night of an all-white Oscars. Meanwhile, inside the theater, Spotlights Supporting Actor nominee Mark Ruffalo, who considered boycotting the ceremony at one point, said, Its time for our country to have this discussion in an earnest way. It should be happening here in Hollywood. And on the red carpet, Kerry Washington remarked that while she sympathized with some of the artists who did boycott the Oscars, As a new member of the academy I really want to be part of the conversation to make sure theres institutional change so that we never have a year like this again. The academy would certainly like to ensure this years controversy doesnt repeat itself, taking controversial steps to changing its rulebook in order to promote diversity. By Kevin Polowy and Ethan Alter Chris Rock lived up to the hype as the right man for the job in a very, um, interesting year at the Oscars; Leonardo DiCaprio finally won that Oscar; and Spotlight prevailed in a tight race for Best Picture. There were plenty of great moments during the 88th Academy Awards, and a few doozies (see: Dash, Stacey). Here are the highs and lows from the 2016 Oscars. (Watch our video about it above.) HIGH: Rock Diversifies Oscar Contenders Whoopi Goldberg mopped up in Joy. Leslie Jones played the bear in The Revenant. Jeff Daniels and Kristen Wiig argued over whether they should spend 2,500 white dollars to save Rocks black astronaut in a Martian sendup. But the best vignette in Rocks bit where he inserted black actors into lily-white Oscar movies came when a dress-sporting Tracy Morgan tried to seductively eat a Danish in front of Alicia Vikander in The Danish Girl. HIGH: Rocks Opening Monologue Anticipation for this years show had as much to do with how Rock would respond to the #OscarsSoWhite controversy as the awards themselves. And he came through with a blistering, riotous sermon in which he skewered both the system (the academy, Hollywood) and those who overreacted (namely, Jada Pinkett Smith). In a tour de force reminiscent of his very best standup routines, the comedian lived up to the hype and then some. LOW: Stacey Dash Comes Out for Black History Month Rocks introduction of the Clueless star turned conservative mouthpiece (and outspoken opponent of Black History Month) to wish everyone a Happy Black History Month was ultra-brief, mercifully. But also ultra-awkward. The Twitterverse seemed, if anything, confused by the moment, an opportunity Dash seized by tweeting a post she wrote explaining her appearance. But as they say, if you have to explain a joke, it probably didnt work. HIGH: Gosling and Crowe, Comedy Team Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe arent known as Hollywoods funniest guys, but the trailer for their upcoming crime comedy The Nice Guys surprised everyone with ample laughs from the dynamic duo. They brought their act to the Oscars, bantering amusingly on the definition of Adapted Screenplay (Gosling was wrong) and how many Oscars they had between the two of them (again, Gosling was wrong). Story continues HIGH: Rock Unleashes the Girl Scouts After noting that his daughters had a tough time selling Girl Scout cookies last year, the host brought out a whole troop to hit up the deep-pocketed attendees. And suddenly were seeing Steven Spielberg wave a wad of cash in the air and Matt Damon snarfing Thin Mints. Its not quite the water-cooler moment of Ellens similar pizza stunt, but it made a bigger difference. Rock later announced the girls had raised over $65,000. Cha-ching! LOW: The Thank-You Scroll & Playoff Music The academy helpfully tried to keep acceptance speeches short and punchy by letting winners thank their families, co-workers, and chosen deities via a ticker at the bottom of the screen. But the effect was distracting, resembling visual clutter rather than a meaningful message. (Notable exception: Inside Out director Pete Docters message to his kids: OK, yes, lets get a dog.) The producers also struck the wrong chord with the musical interludes. As if the orchestras song choices of famous movie music werent odd enough, the renditions often fell flat the Muzak-y version of Amy Winehouses Rehab played when Amy won Best Documentary Feature was particularly unsettling. LOW: That Anticlimactic Jack Black Bit For the most part, Rocks comedy game was on point. But he probably should have left the Will Smith gags in the monologue. In a follow-up video bit, he enlisted Angela Bassett to pretend that she was honoring the star of Enemy of the State and Shark Tale for Black History Month. But surprise! Turns out she was talking about Jack Black. We love School of Rock and all, but Jack Black doesnt really deserve his own history month. And Bassett definitely didnt deserve being saddled with that leaden joke. HIGH: Straight Into Compton The NWA biopic Straight Outta Compton was largely snubbed by the academy, but Rock found the titular Los Angeles-adjacent city the perfect location to gauge the reactions of black Americans to #OscarsSoWhite. In an inspired bit, he posed questions like, Do you think Trumbo should have been a bigger hit? and oftentimes his interviewees thought he was making up the film titles (Bridge of Spies? Thats not real!) like it was a Jimmy Kimmel skit. LOW: In Memoriam Snubs It happens every year: A couple of film folks are left out of the academys tribute to those whove left us. Those unfortunate souls this year included two beloved character actors, Abe Vigoda (The Godfather, Look Whos Talking) and Geoffrey Lewis (Maverick, Every Which Way but Loose), prompting a Twitter outcry, including a heartfelt message from Lewiss actress daughter, Juliette. And lest we forget, that adorable pup Uggie from the 2012 Best Picture winner The Artist. HIGH: Best Documentary Short Presentation Ever With the vast majority of Americans having not seen the nominated shorts, the category is usually an afterthought to most viewers. But Louis C.K. made it must-see TV with an impassioned, hysterical plea about how important Best Documentary Short is to the otherwise unknown, not-as-wealthy nominees. This Oscars going home in a Honda Civic, said the comedian, who immediately became our pick to host the 2017 Oscars. HIGH: Mad Max Cleans Up Tech Categories Our hearts soared as we bore witness to Fury Roads six Oscar triumphs in the technical categories, winning Production Design, Costume Design, Makeup and Hairstyling, Sound Editing, Sound Mixing, and Film Editing. Sadly, Max and Furiosas ride to awards Valhalla ended there, but it was glorious while it lasted. Excuse us while we rewatch it for the 15th time. LOW: Sly Loses No, Adrian! Looks like Rocky Balboa is gonna remain an eternal underdog. Despite being favored to win the Best Supporting Actor statue for the role he originated 40 years ago, Sylvester Stallones Oscar hopes got KOd by stealth Bridge of Spies winner Mark Rylance. The upset loss prompted a touching tweet from Slys longtime pal Arnold Schwarzenegger: To me, youre the best, no matter what they say. Rylance also beat out another acting heavyweight, Mark Ruffalo, whose Spotlight performance won stellar reviews. Fortunately, he didnt Hulk out at the news. LOW: Chris Rocks Awkward Asian Jokes Rock certainly didnt shy away from jokes about the lack of diversity at this years Oscars. So thats why it was particularly disheartening that midway through the ceremony, he presented a tone-deaf, stereotype-laden gag involving a trio of Asian kids masquerading as the accountants from PricewaterhouseCoopers. If anybodys upset about that joke, just tweet about it on your phone that was also made by these kids, Rock said. HIGH: Lady Gagas Emotional Performance Thats two years in a row that a live rendition of a Best Original Song nominee moved viewers to tears. In 2015, it was Common and John Legends performance of Glory from Selma that brought the house down. This year, after she was introduced by Vice President Joe Biden, it was Gaga who gave a stirring performance of Til It Happens to You from the documentary The Hunting Ground surrounded by survivors of sexual abuse. HIGH: Leo Finally Wins In one of the most highly anticipated and highly predictable sequences of the night, Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Academy Award (for The Revenant) after five unsuccessful attempts. The crowd rose quickly to its feet as DiCaprio offered gracious thanks before using the moment to champion environmental issues long close to his heart. Climate change is real, he said. Let us not take this planet for granted. I do not take tonight for granted. HIGH: Spotlight Wins Best Picture Spotlight won the nights first prize Best Original Screenplay and then went winless over its next four nominations as we repeatedly heard Mad Max: Fury Road and The Revenant called to the stage. But the journalism thriller came through when it mattered, beating out both of those films (plus PGA winner The Big Short) to take home the nights biggest prize. Michael Keaton was pumped, as was the staff of Yahoo Movies. We named Spotlight the best movie of 2015 in December. This post has been updated since it was first published A member of the United States Secret Service attacked a Time magazine photographer at a Donald Trump rally, grabbing his neck and slamming him to the ground. Chris Morris, who has been on contract with Time since 1990, was covering the protests at the Republican presidential frontrunners campaign event on Monday at Radford University in Radford, Va., I stepped 18 inches out of the pen and he grabbed me by the neck and started choking me. Then he slammed me to the ground, Morris told CNN reporter Jim Acosta onsite. This is how reporters are treated at Trump rallies pic.twitter.com/hMxuEoKVeG Gabby Morrongiello (@gabriellahope_) February 29, 2016 Washington Examiner reporter Gabby Morrongiello, who shot video of the incident, explained that members in the press pen were trying to record a group of African-American students who were protesting Trump by standing together with interlocked hands. Morris was trying to get closer to the railing of the press pen to snap better photos because members of the media are not allowed outside the pen at Trumps rallies, she explained. A Secret Service agent told him to get back even though he wasnt trying to exit the press pen, Morrongiello said in an interview with Yahoo News. After Morris said, F*** you, she explained, the Secret Service agent grabbed the photographers throat and threw him to the ground, at which point Morris started kicking. In another video, Morris can be seen holding his hands to the agents throat to demonstrate what had been done to him. Some have taken this out of context to portray Morris as the aggressor. Secret Service agent choke slams reporter pic.twitter.com/jdsHOlylSB Joe Perticone (@JoePerticone) February 29, 2016 Morrongiello spent a month in New Hampshire leading up to the primary, and has been continuously dismayed by the campaigns treatment of the press. Story continues I cant say that Im surprised, because of the way members of the media have been treated by the Trump campaign before, she said. It was at his rally where you have this huge animosity for members of the media. Just seconds before that altercation before, Donald Trump was telling all of the voters in this crowd that he wanted to loosen libel laws and make it easier for him to sue reporters. Morris told WSET reporter Annie Anderson that he was originally arrested after the incident but wound up just being detained. Following the incident, Time contacted the Secret Service to convey its concern about the level and nature of the agents response to Morris, who expressed remorse for his part in escalating the conflict. We are relieved that Chris is feeling OK, and we expect him to be back at work soon, a Time spokesperson said. The Secret Service released a statement confirming that one of its employees was involved in the scuffle. The Secret Service is aware of an incident involving an employee of the Secret Service that occurred earlier today in Radford, VA. At this time, our local field office is working with their law enforcement partners to determine the exact circumstances that led up to this incident. The Secret Service will provide further details as warranted once additional facts surrounding the situation are known, it reads. The Trump campaign released the following statement: "There was an incident involving a photographer and a USSS agent at todays Radford University Trump rally. We are not aware of all details surrounding the incident and all future inquiries should be directed to local law enforcement. A Radford University student recorded footage of the choke-slam. (Photo:cchorniak/Instagram) Donald Trump speaks during an airport rally in Millington, Tenn. (Photo: Karen Pulfer Focht/Reuters) Donald Trump said today he may ask the federal judge overseeing an upcoming civil fraud trial involving the now defunct Trump University to recuse himself because he is Hispanic and is therefore biased against him due to his plan to build a wall to keep out immigrants from Mexico. Trump first raised the idea of filing a motion to recuse U.S. Judge Gonzalo Curiel during a campaign rally on Saturday in which, without mentioning him by name, the Republican candidate said the judge overseeing his case has shown tremendous hostility to him. Hes Hispanic, which is fine, Trump said. Why would you need to ask for a recusal and what does his ethnicity have to do with it? moderator Chuck Todd asked Trump during an appearance on Meet the Press Sunday morning. Because I think hes been very, very unfair with us, Trump replied. I think the judge has been extremely unfair. This is a case that many, many, many people said should have been thrown out on summary judgment. We have 98 percent approval. We have an A from the Better Business Bureau. And you think its because he is Hispanic? Todd asked. Trumps reply: Well because of the wall, and because of everything thats going with Mexico and all of that, I think its frankly look, this is a judge who has treated me very, very unfairly. This is a case that should have been thrown out a long time ago in the opinion of many great lawyers. Curiel, who was born in East Chicago, Ind., and graduated from Indiana University and Indiana University Law School, was nominated to the federal bench by President Obama in 2011 and approved by the Senate the next year by voice vote without opposition. His confirmation followed a lengthy legal career that included 13 years as a federal prosecutor in San Diego, starting under President George H.W. Bush, and ultimately rising to become chief of the offices Narcotics Enforcement Division in charge of prosecuting narcotics cases involving Mexican drug smugglers. (At one point, Curiels efforts to extradite a top smuggler from Mexico led to a cartel threat to assassinate him.) Story continues Assigned two fraud lawsuits filed by former students of Trump University accusing the school of deceptive trade practices, Curiel has rebuffed multiple motions by Trumps lawyers to dismiss the case. As far back as October 2014, long before Trump proposed building a wall on the Mexican border, one of Trumps lawyers raised the idea of seeking a recusal of Curiel after the judge agreed to certify one of the cases as a class action lawsuit on behalf of all former Trump University students. Curiel has also required Trump to answer questions about how much money he made from the school. In a separate action, New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman has pegged that figure at $5 million. Plaintiff argues that a showing that Trump invested millions of dollars in a fraudulent scheme and took millions more in profits from the scheme is relevant to Trumps motive or intent to defraud, the judge wrote in a ruling last July. Trumps comments about Curiel drew a sharp rebuke from Schneiderman, whose lawsuit over Trump University has been separately filed in New York State Courts. There is no place in this process for racial demagoguery directed at respected members of the judiciary, Schneiderman said in a statement. The State Supreme Court has already ruled that Trump University operated illegally in New York as an unlicensed educational institution, and we look forward to prevailing on the rest of our claims as the legal process moves forward. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump and "Meet the Press moderator Chuck Todd. (Photos: Andrew Harnik/AP, William B. Plowman/NBC/NBC NewsWire via Getty Images) Trumps comments today came after several days in which Sen. Marco Rubio sharply attacked him as a con artist over his operation of Trump University. And according to recent court filings he will be required to testify about the matter before Curiel in an upcoming trial that could take place this spring or summer. No trial date has been set, but a final pretrial conference has been scheduled in Curiels courtroom on May 6. The case involves allegations by plaintiffs that they were tricked into spending up to $36,000 to attend seminars and receive mentoring by Trumps hand-picked experts in how to get rich in the real estate market. The seminars, the plaintiffs allege, amounted to little more than an infomercial, and Trumps experts provided little if any useful advice. Trump today strongly defended the record of Trump University and said he has no plans to settle the case. ( He recently hired noted litigator Daniel Petrocelli to represent him in the upcoming trial.) We had about 98 percent of the people took the courses, approved the courses, and they thought it was great, signed report cards, and they said it was great, he said during the Meet the Press interview. Those people are suing now to get their money back because a law firm said, Hey listen, if I could get your money back, what would you say. And you would say, Oh great, get my money back. Heres the only thing, Chuck, Trump added. I could settle the case, but I dont want to settle the case. The reason is I dont want to be held up. Once you settle cases, everybody sues you and I dont want to be held up. The Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin 2016 Pageant was held in Menomonie on Feb. 20, with judges crowning Twin Lakes resident Carol Abraham as the new titleholder. Denise Horn, of Janesville, was selected as the first runner-up. Abraham has Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy, a rare progressive neuromuscular disease that has caused her to use an electric wheelchair for mobility for more than 25 years. A lifelong resident of Wisconsin, Abraham is a retired Occupational Therapist, the founder of the worldwide Limb Girdle Muscular Dystrophy Awareness Day and serves as the Director of Community Outreach for Coalition to Cure Calpain 3. Unlike traditional beauty pageants, Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin is not a contest to select the most attractive individual. It is a competition based on advocacy, achievement and communication for women who happen to use wheelchairs. Abraham will represent the people with disabilities in Wisconsin and speak about her platform as she makes appearances around the state during the year of her reign. The next step for Ms. Wheelchair Wisconsin 2016 is to do fundraising for her trip to the Ms. Wheelchair America 2017 Pageant in Grand Rapids, Mich. from Aug. 8-14, 2016. Abraham is raising funds to pay her way to the national pageant at www.gofundme.com/MsWheelchairWI2016. Under Wisconsin law, police officers working for private railroad companies have the power to issue citations and arrest people who break laws on railroad property. One lawmaker wants to hold them to the same standards of accountability and transparency as other police forces. Sen. Kathleen Vinehout, D-Alma, is circulating a trio of bills this week addressing concerns about railroad policing that have surfaced since BNSF Railroad began issuing trespass warnings to anglers crossing its tracks to reach fishing spots along the Mississippi River, which is separated from the state by more than 214 miles of rail. One bill would require railroad police to follow the states open records law, which gives citizens access to public documents such as police reports and arrest records, in respect to enforcement of trespassing laws. In 2015, the La Crosse Tribune requested records of arrests or citations issued by BNSF police in Wisconsin. As a private corporation, BNSF is not subject to the provisions of the Wisconsin open records law, the company responded. BNSF also refused to name its officers working in Wisconsin out of concern for their privacy. They cant have it both ways, Vinehout said. If you are acting in a public capacity, you have to be open to public scrutiny. Another bill would designate the Department of Justice as the agency in charge of investigating citizen complaints about railroad police. The DOJ does not currently have any oversight authority over railroad police. The law states simply, Every railway company shall be responsible for the acts of its police officers. A third bill which Vinehout calls a shot across the bow would remove the railroad police authority altogether from state statute. Rail companies could still hire guards to protect rail property as could any property owner, Vinehout wrote in a memo to other lawmakers. But these guards would not have the police powers to issue citations, arrest or take any other police action against an individual. Vinehout said she has heard from western Wisconsin residents concerned that railroad enforcement of trespassing law is cutting off access to public lands and that the state provides no oversight for private police forces. While federal and state law allow these police hired by a private company to act in a law enforcement capacity, she wrote in a memo, there is no place for citizens to go if they believe the railroad police have acted improperly. A New York Times report last year documented numerous complaints and lawsuits filed against railroad police in recent years. While police departments across the country face increasing scrutiny and demand for reform after several cases of brutality, the Times reported, the railroad authorities appear to operate with near impunity. Federal law grants railroads the power to employee police officers commissioned by states where the railroad owns property. The law also allows officers to enforce certain laws in any state where the railroad owns property so long as the railroad provides certain notification. Minnesota and Wyoming are the only states that do not commission railroad police. BNSF says it has one officer stationed in La Crosse to patrol the region, and additional officers located in other regions who may work in Wisconsin at various times. The railroad says it has not cited anyone for trespassing but has been issuing warnings as part of a public education campaign. Our officer has had productive conversations with members of the public over the past year as part of his safety outreach efforts, said BNSF spokeswoman Amy McBeth. Hes even handed out BNSF calendars and pens. Uncertain fate for trespassing bill The Senate has yet to act on a bill passed early this month by the Assembly that would restore pedestrians rights to cross tracks, rolling back a 2006 change that restricts pedestrians to designated crossings. Outdoors advocates say that cuts off vast areas of the river including private boathouses. That includes dozens of spots between La Crosse and Genoa, where, according to a Tribune analysis of Federal Railroad Administration crossing data, BNSF track runs for stretches of 4.75 miles and 6 miles between crossings. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has identified at least 124 spots along the Mississippi River where shore access requires crossing the tracks and said in a memo, This might well be the largest loss of public access to public waters in the history of the state. Its not clear yet if the Senate will vote on the bill, sponsored by Republican Rep. Lee Nerison, before the session ends March 15. Gov. Scott Walker vetoed similar language from last years budget bill; a spokesperson said Walker would need to review this bill if and when it gets to his desk. BLACK RIVER FALLS Wildlife officials have completed the second and final round of elk trapping that will add to Jackson Countys fledgling herd. Officials from Wisconsin and Kentucky trapped 40 animals that now will undergo a quarantine period before being hauled to the Black River State Forest in Jackson County. The trapping comes as officials announced the local herd experienced two more deaths by wolves, dropping the current total in Jackson County to 15. The mortalities are certainly disappointing -- its something we always knew was a possibility, but we were hoping we wouldnt see it for a while, said Scott Roepke, a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources wildlife biologist who serves Jackson and Clark counties. The project certainly is not over. Were moving forward as best we can. Weve got a great group of elk currently in our quarantine pen in Kentucky, and we certainly think that is going to be a great benefit to the reintroduction. The elk in Kentucky will receive daily care and monitoring, along with testing, before being taken to Jackson County in late March. The animals also will spend time in an acclimation pen in the state forest area where they will undergo similar monitoring before being released sometime in early summer. Officials from both states trapped 28 elk in Kentucky last year and brought 26 back to Jackson County where some died and others were born to bring the current number to 15. Elk were last seen in Wisconsin in the mid-20th century and werent present in the state until a project reintroduced animals into the Clam Lake area more than 20 years ago. Wisconsin and Kentucky have a three-year trapping agreement, and animals captured next year will go to the Clam Lake herd. With two elk herds now on the landscape, the (DNR) and our partners will continue efforts to bring more elk to Wisconsin and, in the process, give the people of Wisconsin yet another reason to head into the outdoors and explore everything Wisconsin has to offer, DNR secretary Cathy Stepp said in a statement. This years trapping in Kentucky garnered 14 more animals than last years effort thanks in part due to an earlier start, access to land with good elk population and good weather conditions. There are a lot of variables at play trying to capture wild animals -- things such as weather and access to private property play a role in it, Roepke said. We put forth a similar effort the last year using the same number of traps and working the same areas. Its just partly a matter of a little bit of luck and putting forth as much effort as possible. The recently trapped animals include a majority of females that officials hope are carrying calves to help bolster the herd even further. We are very happy with how things went in the second year of this project, DNR bureau of wildlife management director Tom Hauge said in a statement. The majority of this years class are females, including many adult cows that are likely carrying calves." Roepke said the project, funded through private money, continues to receive strong support from its private partner organizations. This project would not be possible without all of our partner support, he said. We would like to take the opportunity to thank them and show our appreciation for them to see this project through. WASHINGTON Ted Cruz fired his communications director, Rick Tyler, for smearing rival Marco Rubio with the false allegation that Rubio had disparaged the Bible. And Tylers transgression is indeed inexcusable: He forgot that his boss prefers to do the smearing himself. There is something amusing in watching Rubio and Donald Trump come to the shocking discovery that Cruz is a scoundrel. Biggest liar in politics! Trump tweeted Monday. Accusing Cruz of fraud and dirty tricks, Trump offered a diagnosis: This guy is sick. Rubio, too, detected a very disturbing pattern of deceptive campaigns and flat-out just lying to voters. Where have these guys been? Just a few months ago, Trump was calling Cruz a friend of mine and a good guy. But Cruz has been smearing and fabricating since he arrived in Washington three years ago. As early as April 2013, I observed a perplexing tendency at the Capitol: Republicans are willing to look the other way when Cruz assaults the facts. One of his first acts as a senator was to spread the slander that Chuck Hagel, the incoming defense secretary, may have been on the payroll of the North Koreans. Now that Cruz is concentrating more of his neo-McCarthyism on Republicans, his fellow conservatives have suddenly awakened to the notion that Trusted Ted, as his campaign logo would have it, is actually Tricky Ted. And they are at long last calling him what he is. They just scream, liar, liar, liar, Cruz complained Monday night to Fox News Bill OReilly, saying this is because Trump and Rubio will not defend their record. Or maybe its because Cruz is lying. There are signs that the charge is starting to stick. A few weeks ago, when Ben Carson demanded that Cruz fire somebody for spreading the false rumor that he was quitting the race, Cruz declared that he doesnt make a habit of doing such things. But this time he did. Dont cry for Cruz, though. Even before the latest flap, the primary map made it almost impossible for him to win the nomination. But he still has the ability to cause havoc in the two-man race between Trump and Rubio. He is, in other words, exactly where he likes to be. My Washington Post colleagues David A. Fahrenthold and Katie Zezima, writing last week about the 2013 government shutdown that Cruz orchestrated, reported that many Republicans suspect Cruz always knew his plan would fail but went ahead with it anyway expecting that he would personally benefit from the exposure, even if his party lost a damaging fight. His current bid for the nomination is much the same: doomed but damaging. Republicans could have seen Tricky Ted coming, if they had observed the early signs. In early 2013, he helped torpedo a compromise on background checks for gun owners negotiated by Sen. Pat Toomey, R-Pa., not on the merits but with the false allegation that it would lead to a national gun registry. He would go on to allege, among many other things, that the IRS handed over confidential taxpayer records to an Obama political operative, and that Obama supported the release of the Lockerbie bomber. During his campaign for the Republican nomination, his stump speech has become a long string of untruths. In a single speech in New Hampshire this month, he misrepresented numerous things said by Trump, Rubio and Obama, but also half a dozen other public figures. When I found nothing to substantiate Cruzs claims, I asked Tyler, the now-fired staffer, for supporting material. Is it incumbent upon our campaign to do your basic research? he replied. Then, in South Carolina, Cruzs campaign was caught using a (badly) doctored image showing Rubio in a jubilant handshake with Obama and the words The Rubio-Obama Trade Pact. Coming at a time when pro-Cruz groups were doing shady robocalls against Trump and Rubio, and following the Iowa campaign in which Cruz sent out bogus voting violation letters, Cruz was not in good shape to weather the Tyler episode. The staffer posted a link to a college newspapers false account of Rubio saying the Bible doesnt have many answers. Back in the 1950s, Joe McCarthy rose during the Truman years with his smears about communists in the government. But when he began to go after fellow Republicans in the Eisenhower administration in 1953, he quickly lost support and within two years was censured by the Senate. Now that Republicans are suffering from Tricky Teds smears, perhaps they will come to a similar conclusion about the damage he does. Racist City Employees Are on Notice, and 9 Other Greater Cincinnati News Stories You May Have Missed This Week Catch up on local government, politics, sports, celeb sightings and Halloween fun. Content for teachers and students about robotics in our world. Is robotics the Perfect Platform for 21st Century Learning? Read on!.. Would you like your student robotics activities presented here? Leave a comment or Facebook Messenger me... Credit: Gregg RothPeter Frampton is well known for his prowess as an electric guitarist, first finding fame with the boogie-rock band Humble Pie before becoming an international superstar as a solo artist thanks to his classic 1976 live album Frampton Comes Alive! For his latest album, however, the 65-year-old musician decided to make his first-ever fully unplugged record, Acoustic Classics, which was released on Friday. "I was just trying to think of something different to do so I don't repeat myself, and I had never done an all-acoustic album," Frampton tells ABC Radio. "I thought it was a nerve-wracking idea, but I think that when you're sort of scared about something, that challenges you." Peter says he ended up really enjoying the project, which features stripped-down versions of his biggest hits -- such as "Show Me the Way," "Baby, I Love You Way" and "I'm in You" -- as well as a few of his own favorites from his solo catalog. The album also includes one brand-new tune, "All Down to Me," which Frampton co-wrote with his frequent musical collaborator Gordon Kennedy. Frampton admits that he initially considered not including one of his best-known songs, "Do You Feel Like We Do," on the new album because he thought it was a jam song better suited for a full band. "But I decided'All right, let's give it a go,'" he explains. "So I just tried the intro, and then I put the harmony line on it with a different acoustic, and it made me smile. And I thought, 'This could be fun.'" To fit the concept of the record, Peter slightly altered the song's title to "Do You Feel Like I Do." Peter's hit live version of "Show Me the Way" famously features the electronic "talk box" effect, and he tells ABC Radio that he "had an argument with [himself] for many days" about whether to include it on the Acoustic Classics rendition. In the end, he did put talk box on the unplugged "Show Me the Way," reasoning that even the studio version of the tune featured the effect. Frampton says that in the middle of recording Acoustic Classics, he was inspired to line up a brief U.S. trek, dubbed the "Raw" tour, to perform the stripped-down material. "That was something that I never thought I'd do, and just thought I'd try," he tells ABC Radio. "And, it was great. I mean, it's a completely different vibe, obviously, from playing with the band. Smaller theater, more living room setup. It's very intimateIt's like [MTV's] Unplugged and Storytellers rolled into one." Accompanying him at the shows was Kennedy, while Peter's son, Julian Frampton, served as the opening act as well as coming out during his dad's set to perform a few tunes. With Acoustic Classics now available, Frampton will launch another series of "Raw" tour dates next month, running from a March 9 concert in Tucson, Arizona, through a March 26 performance in Tacoma, Washington. You also can catch Peter performing tonight, February 29, on TBS' Conan, which airs at 11 p.m. ET/10 p.m. CT. Copyright 2016, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. 1. U.S. acceptance of coexistence as the only alternative to atomic war. 2. U.S. willingness to capitulate in preference to engaging in atomic war. 3. Develop the illusion that total disarmament of the United States would be a demonstration of moral strength. 4. Permit free trade between all nations regardless of Communist affiliation and regardless of whether or not items could be used for war. 5. Extension of long-term loans to Russia and Soviet satellites. 6. Provide American aid to all nations regardless of Communist domination. 7. Grant recognition of Red China. Admission of Red China to the U.N. 8. Set up East and West Germany as separate states in spite of Khrushchev's promise in 1955 to settle the German question by free elections under supervision of the U.N. 9. Prolong the conferences to ban atomic tests because the United States has agreed to suspend tests as long as negotiations are in progress. 10. Allow all Soviet satellites individual representation in the U.N. 11. Promote the U.N. as the only hope for mankind. If its charter is rewritten, demand that it be set up as a one-world government with its own independent armed forces. (Some Communist leaders believe the world can be taken over as easily by the U.N. as by Moscow. Sometimes these two centers compete with each other as they are now doing in the Congo.) 12. Resist any attempt to outlaw the Communist Party. 13. Do away with all loyalty oaths. 14. Continue giving Russia access to the U.S. Patent Office. 15. Capture one or both of the political parties in the United States. 16. Use technical decisions of the courts to weaken basic American institutions by claiming their activities violate civil rights. 17. Get control of the schools. Use them as transmission belts for socialism and current Communist propaganda. Soften the curriculum. Get control of teachers' associations. Put the party line in textbooks. 18. Gain control of all student newspapers. 19. Use student riots to foment public protests against programs or organizations which are under Communist attack. 20. Infiltrate the press. Get control of book-review assignments, editorial writing, policymaking positions. 21. Gain control of key positions in radio, TV, and motion pictures. 22. Continue discrediting American culture by degrading all forms of artistic expression. An American Communist cell was told to "eliminate all good sculpture from parks and buildings, substitute shapeless, awkward and meaningless forms." 23. Control art critics and directors of art museums. "Our plan is to promote ugliness, repulsive, meaningless art." 24. Eliminate all laws governing obscenity by calling them "censorship" and a violation of free speech and free press. 25. Break down cultural standards of morality by promoting pornography and obscenity in books, magazines, motion pictures, radio, and TV. 26. Present homosexuality, degeneracy and promiscuity as "normal, natural, healthy." 27. Infiltrate the churches and replace revealed religion with "social" religion. Discredit the Bible and emphasize the need for intellectual maturity which does not need a "religious crutch." 28. Eliminate prayer or any phase of religious expression in the schools on the ground that it violates the principle of "separation of church and state." 29. Discredit the American Constitution by calling it inadequate, old-fashioned, out of step with modern needs, a hindrance to cooperation between nations on a worldwide basis. 30. Discredit the American Founding Fathers. Present them as selfish aristocrats who had no concern for the "common man." 31. Belittle all forms of American culture and discourage the teaching of American history on the ground that it was only a minor part of the "big picture." Give more emphasis to Russian history since the Communists took over. 32. Support any socialist movement to give centralized control over any part of the culture--education, social agencies, welfare programs, mental health clinics, etc. 33. Eliminate all laws or procedures which interfere with the operation of the Communist apparatus. 34. Eliminate the House Committee on Un-American Activities. 35. Discredit and eventually dismantle the FBI. 36. Infiltrate and gain control of more unions. 37. Infiltrate and gain control of big business. 38. Transfer some of the powers of arrest from the police to social agencies. Treat all behavioral problems as psychiatric disorders which no one but psychiatrists can understand. 39. Dominate the psychiatric profession and use mental health laws as a means of gaining coercive control over those who oppose Communist goals. 40. Discredit the family as an institution. Encourage promiscuity and easy divorce. 41. Emphasize the need to raise children away from the negative influence of parents. Attribute prejudices, mental blocks and retarding of children to suppressive influence of parents. 42. Create the impression that violence and insurrection are legitimate aspects of the American tradition; that students and special-interest groups should rise up and use united force to solve economic, political or social problems. 43. Overthrow all colonial governments before native populations are ready for self-government. 44. Internationalize the Panama Canal. 45. Repeal the Connally reservation so the United States cannot prevent the World Court from seizing jurisdiction over nations and individuals alike. MONDAY, Feb. 29, 2016 (HealthDay News) -- Students who have attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often get into trouble for fidgeting in the classroom, but that fidgeting may help them learn, new research suggests. "The prevailing view has been and continues to be that hyperactivity is a core deficit in ADHD," said study author Michael Kofler, an assistant professor of psychology at Florida State University in Tallahassee. "When we think of it as a deficit, we are saying it's a bad thing and it's interfering [with schoolwork]. Our work has been challenging that thought." Kofler's team gave 25 boys and girls with ADHD, aged 8 to 12, a series of working memory tasks, observing the amount of fidgeting as the children did them. In one set, the students had to remember where a series of dots appeared on a screen and then reorder them mentally, based on color. They had to then remember a series of numbers and letters, mentally reordering them, numbers first from smallest to biggest, then the letters. In the easier test of dots on a screen, the children knew in advance how many items they would have to remember. In the more difficult test, the amount of items they would have to remember was random so they didn't know in advance how many items they would have to remember. The children fidgeted during all the tests, but fidgeted about 25 percent more when they couldn't predict how many items they would have to remember. The tests were alike in every other way, so Kofler said this shows that demands on working memory affect the level of hyperactivity in ADHD students. The fidgeting may increase "physiological arousal," Kofler speculated, similar to what stimulant medication does for a child with the disorder. But the study didn't prove that point, he said, and the researchers don't know if the kids were fidgeting on purpose. The study was published online this month in the Journal of Attention Disorders. The findings echo some from a study published last year from the University of California, Davis. Researchers there looked at 26 children with ADHD and 18 without. They found that when the children with ADHD fidgeted more, they did better on a test. Fidgeting among kids without ADHD had no effect on test performance. Dr. Trevor Resnick, a pediatric neurologist at Nicklaus Children's Hospital in Miami, said, "We've known [intuitively] for many years that kids with ADHD often do better when they are fidgeting." However, Resnick said, the interpretation of why they fidgeted more has not been proven. "We don't know whether they do it to help or because they are anxious, or whether it is helping," he said. Kofler agreed, saying his team next plans research "to link the movement with the arousal and the performance, to see if we are right about that is why the movement is helpful." Meanwhile, until more is known, students with ADHD should not have free rein to do what they want in the classroom, Kofler said. But the new study does suggest that teachers and parents should focus less on whether a child is sitting still and more on whether the work is getting done, regardless of the movement level, he said. More information To learn more about ADHD, visit U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Would you like to win a trip abroad? The International Travel sweepstakes list is full of chances for you to win trips overseas. If you want to take a free trip to Italy, the Caribbean, Canada, or other locations outside of the US, this is the place to start. Win free international travel with these sweepstakes! If you're looking for chances to win trips within the US, visit the US Vacation Sweepstakes list, or try to win trips to popular destinations with the Hawaii Sweepstakes List and the Las Vegas Sweepstakes List. You can also win free Disney vacations with the Disney Sweepstakes list. If you'd like to win a free cruise, visit the Cruise Sweepstakes list. 1. CruiseOne - Cruise Vacation Giveaway Here's your chance to win a Norwegian Cruise Line sailing of your choice. Entry Frequency: One time per person/email End Date: October 16th, 2022 Eligibility: Open to the U.S. and Canada (void in PQ) More Information about this Sweepstakes Enter Sweepstakes Directly 2. Expedia Cruises - Win a Dream Vacation 2022 Sweepstakes Enter for your chance to win a seven-night Caribbean cruise for two people. Entry Frequency: One time per person/email End Date: November 14th, 2022 Eligibility: Open to residents of the United States, Canada, and Mexico More Information about this Sweepstakes Enter Sweepstakes Directly 3. Viking Cruises - Q1 River Voyage & Highclere Castle Sweepstakes Enter for your chance to win an eight-day river cruise for two people, a prize worth over $22,000. Entry Frequency: One time per person End Date: April 30th, 2023 Eligibility: Open to the U.S. and Canada (void in PQ) More Information about this Sweepstakes Enter Sweepstakes Directly Via the Centre for Health Protection: CHP notified of ninth imported case of Zika Virus Infection in Mainland. Excerpt and then a comment: The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) received notification today (February 29) of the ninth imported case of Zika Virus Infection in the Mainland from the National Health and Family Planning Commission and the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province, and again urged the public, particularly pregnant women, those planning pregnancy and immunocompromised patients, to adopt strict anti-mosquito measures during travel. According to the health authorities in the Mainland, the male patient aged 23 lives in Venezuela and arrived in Guangdong on February 19. He developed skin rash on February 26 and sought medical attention on the same day. The case was subsequently laboratory confirmed by the Health and Family Planning Commission of Guangdong Province. At present, the male patient is hospitalised for isolation and management in Enping, Guangdong. He is now in stable condition. The patient did not pass through Hong Kong. "Routine health surveillance on the body temperature of inbound travellers at all boundary control points is ongoing. Suspected cases will be referred to healthcare facilities for follow-up. However, at present, around 70 to 80 per cent of infected people are asymptomatic and most can recover fully. Therefore, we again urge those arriving from Zika-affected areas to apply insect repellent for 14 days upon arrival to reduce the risk of transmission," the spokesman for the DH said. We seem to be learning more about Zika in Venezuela from China than from Venezuela itself. The Venezuelans are saying very little, and this is, I think, the third Zika case in China that originated in Venezuela. A string of social science snapshots, remarks, observations, data from the South Caucasus. ConnecticutBob.Com is a modest blog on the internet since 2006. Progressive ideas are encouraged, and all politically-minded and reasonable people are welcome. America is the greatest country in the world, but we'll invade you if you disagree. "The first victory we can claim is that our hearts are free of hatred. Hence we say to those who persecute us and who try to dominate us: You are my brother. I do not hate you, but you are not going to dominate me by fear. I do not wish to impose my truth, nor do I wish you to impose yours on me. We are going to seek the truth together. THIS IS THE LIBERATION WHICH WE ARE PROCLAIMING." Oswaldo Jose Paya Sardinas (2002) President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurates Kerala Tourisms Muziris Heritage Project Published: February 29, 2016 President Pranab Mukherjee inaugurated the first phase Kerala Tourisms Muziris Heritage Project (MHP) at Trissur in Kerala to reinstate the historical and cultural significance Muziris. The project is Kerala Governments first green Project and Indias largest heritage conservation project. President also launched the website of the MHP. MHP is supported by the Union Government and seeks to conserve ancient seaport of Muziris and showcase its culture of 3000 years. The project also will play important role in the Spice Route initiative launched by Kerala Tourism with the help of UNESCO to revive states historic trade ties with 41 countries of the world. About Ancient Muziris Muziris was an ancient seaport and urban centre which dates from at least the 1st century BC and located at the mouth of the Periyar River in Kerala. It was a key centre for trade and hub of the spice route in ancient times between southern India on one side and Egyptians, Phoenicians, Greeks and Roman Empire on the other side. Its historic importance has been mentioned in the bardic Sangam literature and a number of classical European historical sources. Month: Current Affairs - February, 2016 Topics: Current Affairs 2016 Kerala Muziris Heritage Project Pranab Mukherjee Latest E-Books Resul Pookutty becomes first Asian to win Golden Reel Award Published: February 29, 2016 Oscar-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty has won the prestigious American Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE) Golden Reel Award. He won the best sound for documentary Indias Daughter directed by Leslee Udwin. It is based on the Delhi gangrape incident of December 2012. Government has banned public screening airing of the documentary. With this, he becomes the first Asian to win the coveted award from the Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE) of United States for best sound. About Resul Pookutty Pookutty is a film sound designer, sound editor and mixer working in Hollywood, Hindi cinema, Malayalam Cinema and Tamil cinema. He is an alumnus of the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII), Pune. In 2009, he along with Richard Pryke and Ian Tapp had won the Academy Awards (Oscar) for best sound mixing for the film Slumdog Millionaire. He also was awarded National Film Award for Best Audiography (2010), Padma Shri (2010). About Golden Reel Award The Golden Reel Award has been instituted by the MPSE. It recognises excellence in an array of sound editing achievement, sound effects and foley to dialogue and score integration and ADR to music. Topics: Awards Current Affairs - 2017 Current Affairs 2016 Entertainment Persons in News Latest E-Books : , ; The Yes Men pulled another one of their stunts today, handing out fake issues of the New York Post in New York City this morning. &qu... 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Ireland United States Minor Outlying Islands United States of America Uruguay, Eastern Republic of Uzbekistan Vanuatu Venezuela, Bolivarian Republic of Viet Nam, Socialist Republic of Wallis and Futuna Islands Western Sahara Yemen Zambia, Republic of Zimbabwe Terror Groups Eyeing Israel's Destruction from inside NGOs Two stalwarts go sleuthing: "The research suggests that antisemitism is the fuel that primes the PSC engine" 'For as long as these antisemites wrap themselves up in the Palestinian flag, too many people are willing to turn a blind eye. Only against Jews is this type of racism openly tolerated. It is flourishing in schools, colleges, universities, unions and in city councils. In fact, so rampant is the disease now, in some settings you can be ostracised if you do not partake in the frenzy yourself. Bashing Jews has becomes a trendy position for the ignorant social justice warrior. "Palestinianism" is a viral "ponzi scheme" and as it spreads, it carries antisemitism in the undergrowth.' David Collier (2017) 'This new rise in antisemitism, which I had thought long dead, was not shaven-headed white imbeciles from the far right. It was Muslims, a large chunk of it.... Suddenly I grasped that the British far left didnt want people to know about antisemitism because it pointed the finger at people they really, really liked. From that moment on, it all fell into place.... Time and again the same tropes emerged, the same sort of stuff that Streicher and Goebbels would have commended and uttered.... And from that a whole bunch of other stuff emerged: the old blood libel business (a favourite of the repulsive Jenny Tonge).... Nice, avuncular, Jeremy Corbyn, with his peace badges, happily laying a wreath at the graveside of Palestinian terrorists who murdered innocent Jewish athletes, oh, and much much more.... It is the same antisemitism, exactly the same: the obsession with Israel to the exclusion of everything else, the conspiracy theory paranoias, the derangement.... Heres the test if you cannot see the flagrant racism in the BDS movement, and if you are obsessed with the perfidy of the Middle Easts only democracy to the exclusion of all else, you are an antisemite. That means a good proportion of the Labour Party, including the leader, and almost all of Momentum: no brown shirts, no marching bands, but the same old filth, dressed in the clothes of a polytechnic geography lecturer.' Rod Liddle (2018) Pro-Israel Down Under Shalom and Welcome to my blog! I'm the little Aussie blogger who took the screenshot and broke the story of Stephen Sizer's notorious 9/11 post, and I've since broken two other stories that subsequently went viral, one Australia-wide and one, thanks to the sterling work of two other bloggers, worldwide. I remain very surprised and very honoured to have been co-winner, Best Pro-Israel Blog, Hasby Awards, 2013 Please "Like" me on Facebook; my Facebook page is here 'In a region where women are stoned, gays are hanged, Christians are persecuted, Israel ... is different.... Of the 300 million Arabs in the Middle East and North Africa, only Israel's Arab citizens enjoy real democratic rights.... Israel is not what is wrong about the Middle East. Israel is what is right about the Middle East.' Bibi Netanyahu (20 Iyar 5771; 24 May 2011) Scroll to end for more quotations Tired of anti-Balfour agitprop? Balfour and Beyond Try this for Sizer 'Before the June 1967 Six Day War, there were no such things as "settlements". Palestinians were trying to destroy and displace Israel anyhow. The core problem is not, and never was, "settlements," but the right of Israel (or any non-Muslim nation) to exist inside any borders in that part of the world. If you take a stand that is based on a lie, then that stand cannot succeed. If you try to oppose antisemitism but pretend it is the same thing as "Islamophobia," then the structure on which you have made your stand will totter and all your aspirations will fail. If you try to make a stand based on the idea that settlement construction rather than the intransigence of the Palestinians to the existence of a Jewish state is what is holding up a peace deal, then facts will keep on intruding.' Douglas Murray (31 December 2016) https://www.gatestoneinstitute.org/9685/britain-little-lies BDS is Antisemitic The Bigotry & Immorality of BDS 'Islamophobia does NOT come from the same wellspring of hatred as antisemitism. Antisemitism is a true prejudice because the hatred and demonisation it promotes derive entirely from lies and a repudiation of rationality itself. Islamophobia is a false allegation of prejudice which is deployed to silence rational criticism based on actual facts about attitudes and practices within the Islamic world. [L]ethally compromised even-handedness is to misunderstand, and thus minimise, antisemitic attitudes and behaviour while shutting down legitimate and necessary discussion of the threat from the Islamic world even to demonise as Islamophobic anyone who draws attention to the extent and consequences of Muslim antisemitism.' Melanie Phillips (14 December 2016) "Selling a house to a Jew is a betrayal of Allah" Maps of Mendacity & Mischief These misleading maps were deliberately prepared to date from 1946 intentionally papering over the momentous events that had occurred between 1917 and 1945. Attempts to unravel binding precepts of international law established between 1917 and 1945 and failing to insist on their being upheld and enforced has a lot to do with the sorry situation the world finds itself in today. David Singer (2016) How They Twist the Truth! Jews have re-assumed the role of the canary in the mine and are the first to be targeted, but the world would face the same threat if Jews did not exist. Israel has been at the front lines confronting Islamic extremism but has received scant support... For Jews, the writing has been on the wall for a long time. The virulence of the antisemitic hatred closing in on Jews in Europe (and elsewhere) is horrifying... Europe is today facing a crisis as serious as the confrontation with Nazism. If Western leaders continue behaving like Chamberlain and fail to stand up to this global threat, it could usher in a new Dark Age in which the Judeo-Christian culture is subsumed by primitive barbarism. The writing is on the wall Isi Leibler (12 January 2015) Expose The Lies! There is a war of lies and deceit on the internet generating unbelievable hate by denigrating and delegitimising the legal rights conferred on the Jewish people by the League of Nations in 1922 and the United Nations in 1945. The idea that there are two narratives on the Arab-Jewish conflict is rubbish. There is only one the factual truth that details the return of the Jewish people to reconstitute the Jewish National Home in its ancient biblical, ancestral and historic homeland after 3500 years of dispersion with the unanimous endorsement of the nation states then comprising the League of Nations.... Generals cant fight a war without soldiers. Jews around the world need to join the fight or vacate the internet to the Jew-haters and their lies that repeated often enough eventually become accepted as truth. David Singer (2016) Exposing Lies The "Apartheid" Slur The division of Judea and Samaria (West Bank) into three separate areas A, B and C was agreed on by Israel and the PLO pursuant to the Oslo Accords. 95% of the West Bank Arabs live in Areas A and B and their daily lives are under the total administration and control of the PLO since the Palestinian Authority was disbanded by Abbas in January 2013. The PLO has total security control in A and shares security control in B with Israel. Israel has total administrative and security control in C. Israel is entitled to and will continue to take responsibility for the security of Jews living in the West Bank. Jews were given the legal right to settle in the West Bank under article 6 of the Mandate for Palestine and article 80 of the UN Charter. They did so for decades until they were driven out in 1947 and not able to return there until 1967. There are Arab roads only in the West Bank that Jews are not allowed to use. Jews are also forbidden from entering Area A. Selling land to Jews is forbidden by the PLO under pain of death. The PLO runs the daily lives of 95% of the West Bank Arabs and Hamas runs the daily lives of 100% of the Gazan Arabs. They have been under occupation and subjugation by these two evil groups for the last ten years and given no say in their future or any opportunity to elect others to lead them following the disastrous political decisions of their leaders over the past ten years. Hamas and the PLO do not accept the continued existence of a Jewish State and call for its disappearance. The narratives did not begin in 1948 they began in about 1917. How do you make peace with an enemy that has been obsessed with not recognising any Jewish national rights in former Palestine for the last 100 years? David Singer (2016) Telling the Truth The Jews of the Holy Land ... are surrounded by hostile states 650 times their territory and sixty times their population. Yet their last, best hope of ending two millennia of international persecution - the State of Israel - has somehow survived. When, during the Second World War, the island of Malta came through three terrible years of bombardment and destruction, it was rightly awarded the George Cross for bravery. Today, Israel should be awarded a similar decoration for defending democracy, tolerance and Western values against a murderous onslaught that has lasted twenty times as long. Andrew Roberts (historian) A voice of courage & reason He knows, y'know An Aussie demo against BDS On the left, black people are usually allowed to define whats racism; women can define sexism; Muslims are trusted to define Islamophobia. But when Jews call out something as antisemitic, leftist non-Jews feel curiously entitled to tell Jews theyre wrong, that they are exaggerating or lying or using it as a decoy tactic and to then treat them to a long lecture on what anti-Jewish racism really is. Jonathan Freedland (The Guardian, 29 April 2016) An awkward fact for some! Socialist thought was tainted from its very origins with the heavy baggage of anti-Jewish stereotypes. Robert Wistrich, From Ambivalence to Betrayal:The Left, the Jews, and Israel (2012) BDS hypocrisy! Want more? Israel is understandably obsessed with security, but its greatest security lies ultimately not in the Israeli Defence Forces, but in political warfare.... Most of the world is not deeply interested in what happens in Israel, and probably does not want to be deluged with legalistic defences of particular actions. What it wants is a clear, calm, repeated case. It is a case aimed more at public opinion than at foreign ministries about freedom, democracy, a Western way of life and the need for the whole of the free world to fight terrorism. Sometimes you hear Israelis say: It doesnt matter what we say. The whole world is against us. You can see why they say it, for they are indeed unfairly treated. But when they say it, they are uttering a self-fulfilling prophecy. If they wont say what needs saying, no one else will say it for them. Charles Moore (2010) #Je suis ISRAEL Aujourdhui, lantisemitisme est masque par lantisionisme. Il faut dire les choses comme elles sont! ["Today, antisemitism wears the mask of anti-Zionism. We must tell things as they are!"] Nicolas Sarkozy (27 May 2015) Once again the armies of the Arab nations are coordinating their military efforts to destroy Israel - whatever they say about wishing merely to regain the lost territories.... [I]f the present Arab offensive had been launched at the pre-1967 frontiers, then the Israelis would indeed have been fighting to avoid annihilation. It seems now that the Israelis were right to maintain the ceasefire lines gained in 1967, and that to do so is the only guarantee of their continued safety. Alan Sillitoe (The Times, 11 October 1973) A nuclear Iran threatens our existence Iran and ISIS are competing for the crown of militant Islam... In this deadly game of thrones, theres no place for America or for Israel, no place for Christians, Jews or Muslims who dont share the Islamist medieval creed, no rights for women, no freedom for anyone... [T]he greatest danger facing our world is the marriage of militant Islam with nuclear weapons. To defeat ISIS and let Iran get nuclear weapons would be to win the battle, but lose the war. We cant let that happen...[T]he days when the Jewish people remained passive in the face of genocidal enemies, those days are over. We are no longer scattered among the nations, powerless to defend ourselves. We restored our sovereignty in our ancient home. And the soldiers who defend our home have boundless courage. For the first time in 100 generations, we, the Jewish people, can defend ourselves....Even if Israel has to stand alone, Israel will stand. But ... I know that America stands with Israel... You stand with Israel, because you know that the story of Israel is not only the story of the Jewish people but of the human spirit that refuses again and again to succumb to historys horrors. Bibi Netanyahu (12 Adar 5775; 3 March 2015) The Jews are a peculiar people: things permitted to other nations are forbidden to the Jews. Other nations drive out thousands, even millions, of people, and there is no refugee problem.... [N]o one says a word about refugees. But in the case of Israel displaced Arabs have become eternal refugees.... Other nations - when they are defeated - survive and recover, but should Israel be defeated it would be destroyed.... [A]s it goes with Israel, so it will go with all of us. Should Israel perish the holocaust will be upon us. Eric Hoffer (1968) My archived Tuesday blogs at Elder of Ziyon , Most of the present Arab countries were given their freedom after the 1914-18 War, or after the 1939-45 War.... Yet to listen to Arab spokesmen one might think that they had been cheated ... because they have not also got Israel. Israel is only .2 per cent of the land where Arab States have been established. Surely no fair-minded man can begrudge the Jews their own promised land when it is remembered that for every 2 acres that went to make up Israel, 1,000 acres became Arab.... Why is there an Arab refugee problem? The oil-rich countries have the money. There is no shortage of land, and the Israelis have the technical knowledge to show how it could be developed and made fertile. Bring those things together and the problem could be solved. 3rd Earl of Balfour (1968) Blog Archive January 7, 2015 has already its place in the history of infamy, but also will be the date when the defenders of freedom and democracy will rise and pay tribute to those who died for their freedom and ours. Therefore, we must not forget on which side we are and who are our allies in the defense of the West and its values. Whether we admit it or not, the West is at war with an enemy who will not stop to destroy us... The State of Israel boasts a commandment that, in one of the darkest hours in the fight for liberty Winston Churchill taught: "Never give up". Israel has proven to be a key ally in the fight against Islamism and also an example of how a liberal democracy can resist the jihadist stake and thrive as a Western nation ... Not only France but also all the West should look to Israel to defeat Islamism... friendsofisraelinitiative.org [I]ts impossible to believe that an active antisemite wouldnt if only opportunistically seek out somewhere to nestle in the manifold pleats of Israel-bashing, whether in generally diffuse anti-Zionism, or in more specific Boycott and Divestment Campaigns, Israeli Apartheid Weeks, End the Occupation movements and the like....[T]ell me that not a single Jew-hater finds the activity congenial, that criticising Israel can never be an expression of Jew-hating, not even when it takes the form of accusing Israeli soldiers of harvesting organs... Howard Jacobson (The Independent, 27 May 2013) What has happened to the 800,000 Jews who lived for over 2000 years in the Arab lands ...? Where are they in Arab society today? You dare talk of racism when I can point with pride ... to the fact that it is as natural for an Arab to serve in public office in Israel as it is incongruous to think of a Jew serving in any public office in an Arab country, indeed being admitted to many of them. Chaim Herzog (6 Kislev 5736; 10 November 1975) I stand with Israel, I stand with the Jews.... I defend their right to exist, to defend themselves, to not let themselves be exterminated a second time. And, disgusted by the antisemitism of many Europeans ... I am shamed by this shame that dishonours my country and Europe. Oriana Fallaci For Western countries to side with those who question Israel's legitimacy, for them to play games in international bodies with Israel's vital security issues, for them to appease those who oppose Western values, rather than robustly to stand up in defence of those values, is not only a grave moral mistake, but a strategic error of the first magnitude. Israel is a fundamental part of the West. The West is what it is thanks to its Judeo-Christian roots. If the Jewish element of those roots is lost and Israel is lost, then we are lost too. Jose Maria Aznar Israel is, for us, a normal and a special country. A normal country, because it is just like any other democracy. A special country, because the Jewish culture, which eventually became the Judeo-Christian culture of the dignity of man, is the conceptual foundation of liberalism and democracy. This is why attacking Israel is tantamount to attacking Europe and the West. This is also why disputing Israel's legitimacy and its right to existence means questioning democracy. And this is why we are Friends of Israel. By defending Israel, we are defending ourselves. Marcello Pera Israel ... is beset today by a unique combination of threats. It must defend its people from attack while defending its very right to exist. No other nation in the world faces this dual challenge. To deny Israel's right to confront some of the world's most vicious terrorist groups in order to ensure the safety of its citizens is to corrode international norms from within ... The assault on Israel is one part of a more general assault on the West, on democracy, and on the moral and cultural heritage that grew from the fruitful interaction of Jerusalem, Athens, and Rome ... Should these efforts succeed, similar efforts will certainly be turned against other western democracies. George Weigel Apart from America itself, Israel still stands as the world's brightest model of national self-liberation based on ideals of individual responsibility and human freedom. Israel's ability to withstand Arab attempts to destroy it in one of the longest and most lop-sided wars ever fought serves as an indelible testimony to the strength of democratic culture.... We know from the past that the West paid dearly for ignoring Hitler's war against the Jews. One can only hope it will not pay as dearly for having ignored or underestimated for so long the Arab war against Israel and the Jews. Ruth Wisse The choice before us is not between victory and defeat, but between victory and annihilation. We therefore have not the slightest intention of allowing the re-creation of the conditions of vulnerability in which we found ourselves, abandoned and alone, in the summer of 1967. Diplomat Michael Comay (1970) I am duty-bound to defend freedom, culture, peaceful coexistence, the civic education of children, and all the principles that the Tablets of the Law have rendered universal. Principles which Islamic fundamentalism systematically destroys. This means that, since I am a Gentile, a journalist and a leftist, I have a triple moral commitment to Israel. Because, if Israel were to be vanquished, modernity, culture and freedom would also be crushed. Even though the world has failed to wake up to this fact, Israel's struggle is the world's struggle. Pilar Rahola About Me Daphne Anson I'm a writer/researcher, with many academic books and articles under my own name. Daphne Anson is my blogging alias. Combining the names of two ships, it's a moniker of special significance to me - I'm a naval history buff. I use an alias owing to a perceived need to keep my blogging and professional identities separate. An Aussie, I've long been interested in politics and foreign affairs, having studied International Relations in the USA and Britain for my first degree, and I also hold a doctorate. I began blogging in response to the exponential rise in antisemitism and hostility to Israel in the wake of the Mavi Marmara affair. Another reason I use an alias: http://elderofziyon.blogspot.com/2015/08/alias-two-ships-daphne-anson.html View my complete profile Followers Privacy Overview This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful. The Connecticut Supreme Court is set to rule on whether to confirm or overturn its decision last year to abolish the state's death penalty. Justices are expected to release their ruling Monday in the appeal of Russell Peeler Jr., who was sentenced to death for ordering the 1999 killings of a woman and her 8-year-old son in Bridgeport. The court ruled 4-3 in August that capital punishment was unconstitutional, striking down a 2012 law that abolished the death penalty for future murders but left it in place for 11 men already facing execution. The decision came in the appeal of another death row inmate, Eduardo Santiago. The Supreme Court allowed state prosecutors in the Peeler case to address issues the court raised in the Santiago ruling. Source: Associated Press, Feb. 29, 2016 Signing a petition against the Nebraska death penalty repeal This November major issues will appear on the ballot in Nebraska beyond who's elected to the presidency. The death penalty debate is heating up again, bot sides launching re-newed campaigns. Last Wednesday, the advocated for abolishing the death penalty launched "Retain A Just Nebraska". But coming soon, the people who want to keep the death penalty will launch "Repeal the Repeal". "We think that the death penalty is an appropriate punishment for heinous murderers and we are going to do anything we can to make sure Nebraskans understand that and go out and vote in November," said Rod Edwards, state field director of Nebraskans for the Death Penalty. 9 months from the general election, both sides are already gearing up for a fight to win over voters. "It's just costing us money," said Lincoln Senator Colby Coash during a Retain A Just Nebraska commercial. Nebraska hasn't carried out an execution since 1997. Supporters of the abolishment say capital punishment isn't cost effective. However Edwards disagrees, "They try and say that the death penalty is more expensive--that is not accurate." Edwards said opponents are tipping their hand by starting to advertise already. "Our opposition is out there already with slick television ads 9 months before the election just goes to show that they know they have a lot of ground to make up," said Edwards. The Nebraska legislature overrode a veto from Governor Pete Ricketts to abolish the death penalty in the state. Since then, more than 166,000 Nebraskans signed the petition to reinstate the death penalty. Voters will decide which side will win in November. Source: KMTV news, Feb. 29, 2016 Nebraskans for the Death Penalty is finalizing Repeal the Repeal campaign The campaign to bring back capital punishment is about to start its next phase. Nebraskans for the Death Penalty gathered 166,000 signatures last year to get a referendum on the issue the November General Election ballot. Group co-founder Bob Evnen says a grassroots campaign will convince voters the death penalty is needed and not a broken system. "And what I would really hope that the Unicameral would turn its attention to would be how to carry out the sentence and to focus on that instead of just throwing in the towel," Evnen tells Nebraska Radio Network. Evnen says they are putting together a coalition of groups and people who believe the state needs to execute those who commit serious crimes. "It will be a campaign that covers all the bases. It certainly will be a grassroots campaign," Evnen says. "There are tens and hundreds of thousands of Nebraskans who favor retaining the death penalty - repealing the repeal." The legislature repealed the death penalty last year, and the group Retain a Just Nebraska is fighting to keep that from being overturned in November's election. Source: Nebraska Radio Network, Feb. 29, 2016 Priyanka Chopra was one of the presenters at the Oscars 2016. New Delhi: Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra who made a red carpet debut at the 88th Academy Awards is the second most searched celebrity after Hollywood's Leonardo DiCaprio according to Internet search engine Google, which put India among top 10 markets for searches related to Oscars. India contributes to about 2 per cent of global searches for the Oscars and is among top 10 markets for searches on the Academy Awards, more commonly referred to as the Oscars, Google said in a statement today. As high as 50 per cent of all Oscar searches worldwide have originated from US with the next 30 per cent of search share including the markets of UK, Canada, Australia and Spain according to the company. "Compared to 2015, this year has seen a 70 per cent Year-on-Year growth in queries for the Oscars with January this year witnessing two times spike in searches in comparison to December 2015," the company said. The top searched trends from India this year include Best Picture, Best Actor, Best Actress and Best Director. Priyanka, also known as PeeCee, wore a white and sheer embellished fitted gown by Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad for her award presentation ceremony and became the second most searced celebrity in the Red Carpet Dress category. Other contenders included Olivia Wilde, Jennifer Lawrence, Charlize Theron and Saoirse Ronan. The top searches from across the world for the best Red Carpet Dress have been for Anne Hathaway (2013), Jennifer Lawrence (2013), Jennifer Lopez (2012), Lupita Nyong'o (2015) and Gwyneth Paltrow (2012). For all Indian fans, Leonardo DiCaprio emerged as the most popular nominee in the race for Best Actor followed by Matt Damon (The Martian). Incidentally the Revenant star DiCaprio was also the most searched Best Actor nominee across the US. Among the Best Actress nominees, Cate Blanchett (Carol) was the most-searched nominee followed by Jennifer Lawrence (Joy). In the US, the two best searched nominees in the category were Cate Blanchett and Jennifer Lawrence. The top directors at the 88th Academy Awards being searched for include Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (The Revenant), Adam McKay (The Big Short), George Miller (Mad Max: Fury Road); Lenny Abrhamson (Room) and Tom McCarthy (Spotlight). The top searched designers for this year's Oscars have been Valentino, Zubair Murad, Alexander McQueen, Tadashi Shoji and Calvin Klein. Mark Rylance accepts the award for best actor in a supporting role for 'Bridge of Spies'. Photo: AP London: Long regarded as Britain's best stage actor, Mark Rylance is now Hollywood royalty as well after winning the best supporting actor Oscar on Sunday for 'Bridge of Spies'. His role alongside Tom Hanks in the Steven Spielberg-directed Cold War thriller showed the 56-year-old can turn in as powerful a performance on the silver screen as he does treading the boards in London's West End. Rylance's win was the first true surprise of the night, as he bested sentimental favorite Sylvester Stallone (Creed), as well as Christian Bale (The Big Short), Tom Hardy (The Revenant) and Mark Ruffalo (Spotlight). "I want to just say thank you to my fellow nominees. I don't know how they separate my acting from your glorious acting in these wonderful films that you are in. It's a wonderful time to be an actor and I'm proud to be part of it," Rylance said after receiving his award. This month, Rylance won a best supporting actor Bafta for the part -- something of a breakthrough for a star whose biggest successes until now had come in the theatre and, latterly, on television. A fan of crop circles and a campaigner for causes such as opposing air strikes in Syria, the environmentally-conscious Rylance drives a tiny electric car around London. "The open-mindedness that he lives creates a non-judgemental approach to his characters," a Guardian profile of Rylance last year quoted his friend, theatre director Richard Olivier, as saying. "Of all the actors I know, he is the closest to a modern shaman." The son of two English teachers, Rylance was born David Waters in Kent, southeast England, in 1960 but spent much of his childhood in the United States. He trained at prestigious acting school the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London and took the stage name Mark Rylance -- his two middle names. He built up a successful career as a young actor, often performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). In 1995, he became the first artistic director of the Globe Theatre -- a reconstruction on the banks of London's River Thames of a theatre dating back to the 16th century which stages authentic period performances of plays by William Shakespeare and others. Over 10 years, Rylance put the Globe on the map as one of London's must-visit destinations with a string of innovative shows, including with all-male casts. After stepping down from the Globe in 2005, Rylance took some high-profile parts which showed there was more to him as an actor than just Shakespeare. His roles as bawdy waster Johnny Rooster Byron in Jerusalem and in the farce Boeing-Boeing both won him Tony awards. A third came in 2014 for his role as Olivia in Shakespeare's Twelfth Night. But tragedy struck in 2012 when the sudden death of his stepdaughter forced him to pull out of performing in the opening ceremony for the London Olympics. In 2015, Rylance became a household name in Britain after starring as Thomas Cromwell in Wolf Hall, a drama set in the court of Henry VIII and based on books by Hilary Mantel. This role also won him an Emmy nomination, although he lost out to Richard Jenkins for Olive Kitteridge. Rylance has been married to director Claire van Kampen since 1989 and the two frequently work together. Last year, he starred in her play Farinelli And The King, a major hit in London. Discovered during World War I and developed during the 1920s and 1930s, phage therapy has few undesirable side-effects. (Photo: Pixabay) Paris: When doctors told Christophe Novou that his leg would have to be amputated at the hip due to a raging bacterial infection, the 47-year-old Frenchman thought about killing himself. After surviving a crippling traffic accident and dozens of operations to repair the damage, to him life in a wheelchair just did not seem worth living. That's when an article about a clinic in Georgia offering an obscure treatment for hard-to-treat infections using live virus -- something called phage therapy -- caught his eye. Within hours, he was on a plane to Tblisi. "Without it, I wouldn't be here," Novou told AFP on the sidelines of a conference in Paris about the mostly forgotten therapy, which remains marginal outside a few former Soviet bloc countries. The treatment harnesses viruses called phages to attack and kill dangerous bacteria, including "superbugs" which have become progressively resistant to antibiotics. In Novou's case, it was Staphylococcus, a common bacteria which can cause anything from a simple boil to horrible flesh-eating infections. Mostly ignored up to now by mainstream medicine, the alternative treatment has started to gain adherents over the last 15 years, especially in France, Belgium and the United States. The renewed interest is partly driven by a problem which the World Health Organization (WHO) recently described as a "global health crisis": the dramatic rise of antibiotic-resistant strains of deadly pathogens. WHO chief Margaret Chan warned last November of a "post-antibiotic era" in which common infections will become killers once more. Show us the money "Phage therapy is especially effective for infections that affect bones and articulation, but can also be used for urinary, pulmonary and eye infections," said Alain Dublanchet, a doctor at the forefront of the movement to resurrect the treatment in France. Discovered during World War I and developed during the 1920s and 1930s, it has few undesirable side-effects. Dublanchet, now retired, claims to have cured at least 15 patients of infections they contracted mainly after road accidents, and for whom antibiotics did not work. Treatment usually lasts a few weeks, and is generally far less expensive than last-resort antibiotics which can cost tens of thousands of dollars or euros. Pharmaceutical companies have shown little interest in phage therapy, in large part because viruses cannot be patented, according to participants at the Paris conference. "The laboratories have turned their back on this because the return on investment is just too small," said Jean Carlet, an expert on infectious diseases and a consultant for the WHO. A few startups have invested in phage therapy, which the European Union classified as a medicine in 2011. But the cycle of drug trials can easily take a decade, so these are long-term -- and perhaps long-shot -- investments. To date no virus used in phage therapy has been approved as a treatment. "It will take years and a lot of money," said Jean-Paul Pirnay, a doctor at the Reine Astrid military hospital in Brussels, one of few actively researching the technique outside the ex-Soviet bloc. Because phage therapy is not recognised in France, Dublanchet and other practitioners -- working in a grey zone -- often wind up going to eastern Europe to procure the viruses. In the United States, the only phages on the market are used in the anti-bacterial treatment of food products. The EU has launched a clinical trial called "Phagoburn" to test the effectiveness of virus-based treatments on victims of severe burns. Half of a group of 220 participants are to be treated with established techniques, and the other half with phage therapy. Temporary authorisation for phage therapy may be granted in France "if the products are of sufficient quality and there is a presumption of efficacy," said Caroline Semaille, a spokeswoman for ANSM, the French government agency that monitors drug approval and use. Novou spent 8,000 euros ($8,700) on going to Tbilisi in 2013 for his treatment, but has no regrets. Dozens, perhaps hundreds, of other French people with similar problems have done the same, said Dublanchet, and most come back in better shape. "It's not a matter of replacing antibiotics with phage therapy," he said. "They should be complimentary." Dublanchet also warned of the possible spread of therapeutic viruses into the environment, saying medical use should be strictly monitored. Arun has paid the money to Satish at different times for a BDA site and a seat at IIM-Bengaluru for his son, Akash. (Representational image) BENGALURU: A computer businessman has been cheated of Rs 4.5 crore by a man claiming to have influence with the police, government and BDA officials, and ministers in the state cabinet. What is worse is that the businessman, Mr Arun Kumar, has not been able to get an FIR registered at the Malleswaram police station, though he has been making rounds for the last five months. Mr Kumar, a resident of Malleswaram, owns Compulease Networks Pvt Ltd. He told Deccan Chronicle that he had been swindled by Satish R. Shet, who claimed to be an upcoming politician in Kumta, near Mangaluru. Arun has paid the money to Satish at different times for a BDA site and a seat at IIM-Bengaluru for his son, Akash. Arun got suspicious of his Satishs dealings, collected all the evidence against him and approached the police. But the police reportedly refused to register the FIR and also did not heed to the orders of their superior officers. Mr Kumar said, I have been struggling to register the FIR for over five months now. I have met everyone, from the DCP to the inspector. The DCP ordered his junior officers to register the FIR, but they have refused to. Arun met Satish, who was also in computer business, in 2000. Satish visited Aruns office regularly and built a good relationship with the employees in the accounts and finance department of the company. He got acquainted with Aruns business transactions. He told me that he had connections with the politicians and in the police department. In 2012, Satish told me that he was a land developer and requested my wife Prathima to become a partner in his business. In August 2014, he proposed to jointly develop a property in Kumara Park East. He told me that he would manage the entire business, while I needed to invest Rs 2.4 crore. After I invested the amount, Satish changed the name on the demand draft, but his fraud was detected. He said, When I started checking and verifying the transactions involving Satish since 2012, I found that all his transactions with my family were bogus and done purely to cheat my family and company. He had already cheated us of Rs 4.5 crore. He also conned us by different fraudulent and bogus sale transactions. He routed the misappropriated funds to his account directly and indirectly. I am filing separate complaints of misappropriation and cheating against him, Arun said. The arrested was identified as Sivakumar, who was running a firm named XDV tech in Maduravoyil. Chennai: A 40-year-old man wanted for last 12 years in connection with a series of job racket frauds in the information technology industry, was arrested by the Chennai police from Vijaywada in Andhra Pradesh on Sunday. The arrested was identified as Sivakumar, who was running a firm named XDV tech in Maduravoyil and NXT Gipo tech in Alapakkam during the last decade. He had also opened branches in Mumbai and Bengaluru. His modus operandi was very simple. He recruits HR people and ask them to hire hundreds of software engineers by collecting Rs 30,000 to Rs 1 lakh as deposit. He paid his HR managers well and they believed him and recruited people after collecting money from them. At XDV he had collected Rs 30,000 from 300 engineering graduates while in NXT he had collected Rs 20,000 to Rs 1 lakh from over 1,000 job aspirants and vanished with the cash. He mainly spent his money on a luxurious life. He had also sexually exploited women offering them jobs. Sleuths from Chennai city central crime branch were pursuing at least five cases against him police said here. There are also cases registered against him in Thuraipakkam and Madurai besides many cases in Mumbai and AP, the police said. Karimnagar: Two youths were arrested in the sensational rape of a dalit girl from Venavanka in uzurabad on Sunday. The incident drew headlines in the national media. Womens organisations, political parties and student unions condemned the incident. Accused Gotte Srinivas, a resident of Amudalapalli in Shankarapatnam mandal, Moddam Rakesh and Moddam Anji from Kaluwala in Veenavanka mandal were apprehended on the charge of raping the girl, a B. Tech student. Another youth, Moddam Rakesh, who filmed the scene when the other two were outraging her modesty, was detained on Saturday. Huzurabad DSP M. Ravinder Reddy said the accused were arrested as they were discharged from the hospital. Srinivas was produced before a Huzurabad magistrate and sent to judicial remand. Rakesh and Anji were produced before a juvenile court as they were minors. The accused were booked under SC-ST Prevention of atrocities Act, and IT Act of 2008. The report denied the charges of molestation and gangrape during the intervening night of February 22/23 at Murthal in Sonipat district. (Photo: PTI) Chandigarh: Haryana Police on Monday filed its status report on the alleged rapes at Murthal in Sonipat district during the Jat agitation, saying no such incident took place. The status report was filed before a division bench of justices SK Mittal and HS Sidhu. The status report filed by police "denied the charges of molestation and gangrape during the intervening night of February 22/23 at Murthal in Sonipat district." The division bench adjourned the case to March 14. The High Court had taken suo motu note of the matter after a report in a local daily on the alleged rapes. The bench had appointed senior advocate Anupam Gupta as amicus curiae to assist the court in this matter. During the course of the hearing, ADGP Law and Order Mohd Akil and Head of the three-member women police officers probing the allegations DIG Rajshree Singh were also present. Read: Murthal gangrapes: HC appoints Anupam Gupta as amicus curiae Days after allegations of rape and molestation by Jat quota agitators near Haryana's Murthal, a woman yesterday came forward and registered a case of gangrape against seven persons, including her brother-in-law, in connection with the incident. "An FIR has been lodged against seven persons in connection with a gangrape on the basis of a complaint filed by a Narela-based woman," Haryana Police, DIG, Rajshree Singh had said. She said the victim had alleged she was raped on the intervening night of February 22-23 and the perpetrators included her brother-in-law. The officer, who heads a three-member team of women police officers constituted by the Haryana government to go into alleged incidents of rape and molestation of several women by Jat protesters, however, said a "family dispute" could be the reason behind the woman filing the complaint. The officer said the victim was not sure about the exact scene of the crime but claimed she was raped in a building near Murthal when she was on way to Narela in Delhi from Haridwar in a van. She was taking a left turn at the junction, when the lorry too was going in the same direction. But the lorry came too close to her scooter, and brushed against it. Sharanya lost her balance and fell down, the police said. (Representational image) BENGALURU: A 24-year-old woman call centre employee, who met with an accident on Sunday afternoon, died on Monday morning. The deceased, Sharanya, an employee of a call centre 24/7 and a resident of V.V. Puram, was heading home after meeting her friends when a cement mixer lorry brushed against her two-wheeler at Iblur Junction in HSR Layout traffic police limits. She was taking a left turn at the junction, when the lorry too was going in the same direction. But the lorry came too close to her scooter, and brushed against it. Sharanya lost her balance and fell down, the police said. A traffic policeman rushed to her help and shifted her to a nearby hospital. She was bleeding and we stopped a goods auto passing by and rushed her to the nearest hospital. But later in the night, she failed to respond to the treatment and succumbed, the police said. The lorry driver has been arrested. Parents of deceased donate Sharanyas eyes Sharanyas parents, who were informed about the accident, rushed to the hospital. They later decided to donate her eyes, the police said. Congress leaders Mallikarjun Kharge (from left), Rahul Gandhi, K.C. Venugopal, Kamal Nath and party president Sonia Gandhi during the presentation of the Budget in the Lok Sabha. New Delhi: The Opposition united on Monday to criticise the Union Budget, even as the BJP praised it for its focus on rural India and farmers, calling many measures historic. Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar and RJD supremo Lalu Yadav termed the document as disappointing and Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said it did not address the concerns of the farmers and the middle class. Mr Kumar said that no mention of a special package for Bihar will disappoint people, and said the Budget has no mention of the promises to generate employment for jobless youths and to bring back black money. He also raised the issue of Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna, and said that the Centre was trying to put added burden of 40 per cent on states like Bihar. The Centre is not allocating funds proposed by us earlier, he complained. Mr Lalu Yadav, who spent the day monitoring the Budget at his house in Patna, asked Prime Minister Narendra Modi to give guarantee that the incomes of farmers will doubled by 2022. He said he did not see much for farmers and Bihar in the Budget. How will they do it and why not by 2018? Where is the blueprint? the RJD chief asked. He added, They are just trying to mislead people. There is an election in 2019. I dont think with this kind of Budget they will ever return to power. Mr Kejriwal accused the Modi government of cheating people while questioning the black money amnesty scheme. Former information and broadcasting minister Manish Tewari tweeted that the Budget is high on rhetoric, flawed on comparison, low on imagination, bereft of ideas, services oligarchs, constricts freedom of RBI. The Trinamul Congress dubbed the Budget hopeless, saying it does not offer any solution to the economic problems. CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said it was full of hollow promises and will burden commoners who will feel the pinch of hike in indirect tax. As with the previous two Budgets, this Budget of the Modi government is again full of hollow promises and slogans. The numbers just dont add up. The FM says Budget is about fulfilling desires and dreams but it has no vision. The dead certainty from it is of a shrinking economy, Mr Yechury said in a series of tweets. BJD leader Baijayant Panda termed the Budget as a big step from a macro-economic perspective for its large allocation to infrastructure, especially in rural areas, and steps to cut red tape. Meanwhile, veteran BJP leader L.K. Advani termed the Budget as one of the best so far. BJP president Amit Shah said its focus on rural India and farmers, besides other measures, were historic. Hyderabad: In a sensational move, the Telangana Legislative Assembly Rules Committee has decided to bring a rule that entitles the House to suspend for a year any member who engages in grave disorderly behaviour during the Governors address. The committee at its meeting on Monday, presided over by Speaker S. Madhusudana Chary, decided to amend rules to ensure that solemn occasions like the Governors address are not disrupted. The Maharashtra Assembly had suspended some members for two years when they obstructed the Governor's address, the committee noted. Normally, the Governor addresses the House once a year for about an hour. During the Telangana agitation, Legislative Affairs minister T. Harish Rao along with TD member A. Revanth Reddy and others created a scene when Governor E.S.L. Narasimhan was addressing the joint session, throwing papers and books at him. They went up to the dais and removed the chair, resulting in Council Chairman Dr A. Chakrapani suffering injuries. The committee decided to bring a rule to consider strong punishment for any Member who makes wild allegations against the government without substantiating it. The quantum of punishment will be decided in due course. It also decided to take action against members who bring pamphlets, placards and other materials into the House to protest against government policies and programmes. BJP member Dr K. Laxman said that Opposition members depend on newspaper reports while raising issues, including corruption and imposing such restrictions was improper. "If such punishments are awarded it will only create panic among Opposition in discharging their duty to raise people's problems," Dr Laxman said. When some committee members raised the issue of frequent violation of protocol for MLAs, Mr Chary assured that he would constitute the Privileges Committee with Deputy Speaker within a week. It was also decided to hold evening sittings whenever the House feels the need for a detailed debate. Hyderabad: There was also no mention about setting up an All India Institute of Medical Sciences and Indian Institute of Management as had been sought by the TS government in the Union Budget. The only consolation was a mention about the tribal university for which Rs 1 crore was allotted. The share of TS in Central taxes also remained more or less the same at Rs 13,955 crore. Mr Rao had also made a special appeal to the Prime Minister for sanctioning Rs 30,000 crore for development of backward areas in TS, which too was not considered. What the state got in the Budget included Rs 20 crore for IIT-Hyderabad, Rs 1 crore for the new tribal university, Rs 15 crore for INCOIS, Rs 62 crore for the Centre for DNA Fingerprinting and Rs 60 crore for the Advance Research Centre. The Budget is very disappointing for Telangana. None of our major proposals was considered. The state had been promised several projects in the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014. However, they were kept pending. This is the third Budget of the NDA government and all bifurcation-related issues still remain unaddressed, said S. Venugopala Chary, the TS governments representative in New Delhi. TRS floor leader in the Lok Sabha A.P. Jitender Reddy said the party would take up these issues during the debate on the budget in Parliament. We have waited for two years over the pending bifurcation-related issues. Despite this, the Centre ignored these issues even in its third Budget. We will bring pressure on the Centre to include some of the pending issues before the passage of the Budget, Mr Reddy added. TRS deputy floor leader B. Vinod Kumar said, We did our best to secure national status for Pranahita project. Its disappointing that the Centre ignored it again. The share of Central taxes has increased from Rs 12,350 crore to Rs 13,955 crore this year, a hike of Rs 1,605 crore. Another plea of the TS government, to exempt civic bodies like GHMC, HMDA and HMWS&SB from income tax was also ignored. Protesters allegedly belonging to Akali Dal who pelted stones on the vehicle breaking its windshield. (Photo: Twitter) Ludhiana: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's car was on Monday attacked by protesters allegedly belonging to Akali Dal who pelted stones on the vehicle breaking its windshield but the AAP leader escaped unhurt. The Aam Aadmi Party alleged that it was an "orchestrated attack" and that police stood by as Kejriwal's car was targeted with rods and stones. Police said activists belonging to Akali Dal and Danga Peedit Association were protesting against Kejriwal outside the venue where the Delhi Chief Minister was holding a party function here. Due to presence of protesters, the police decided to arrange his exit from the back side of the banquet hall, a police spokesman said. But, the protesters came to know about it. They rushed there and pelted stones, breaking the wind shield of Kejriwal's Innova vehicle. Kejriwal immediately lodged a strong protest with Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Rural, Harcharan Singh Brar, who was present there, telling him that whatever happened was not right. The Delhi Chief Minister then drove away in his car. Kejriwal later said that his car was attacked by sticks and stones and that Akali Dal and Congress were nervous. "My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals n congress nervous. They can't break my spirits," the Delhi Chief Minister said on twitter. My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals n congress nervous? They can't break my spirits Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 29, 2016 Kejriwal was in the city on the last day of his five -day tour of Punjab during which he visited various cities including Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Sangrur and Bathinda to reach out to people ahead of 2017 Assembly polls. He was scheduled to visit Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib and Patiala before returning to Delhi today. The AAP lashed out at the ruling Akali Dal in Punjab over the attack. "In a well orchestrated attack the goons sent by Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones & rods as police stood by. The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was by only God's grace that he escaped unhurt," party leader Ashish Khetan tweeted. The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was by only God's grace that he escaped unhurt. Ashish Khetan (@AashishKhetan) February 29, 2016 Kejriwal was at Boha village of Ludhiana where two dalit youths Harinder Singh and Jatinder Singh were killed in alleged "fake encounter" by police a couple of years ago. "Terror of Badals is all set to end after one year", Kejriwal told the family of the slain youths. The lorry which hit a median near Singasandra on Hosur Main Road, Bengaluru on Saturday night Bengaluru: Two people died on the spot, while three others, including a woman, were injured when a lorry jumped a median and crashed into a car near Singasandra on Hosur Main Road late on Saturday night. The lorry driver was trying to avoid a stray dog running on the middle of the road, leading to the accident, the police said. The deceased have been identified as Srinivas (30) and his brother Rajendra (28), both of whom were assistants in the lorry. The lorry driver, Rajappa, and another assistant, were injured in the accident and have been shifted to St Johns Hospital. A software engineer, Srihari from Infosys, and his wife, Sudhamani, had a narrow escape when the lorry, jumping over the median from the other lane, crashed into their car around 11.40 pm. Sudhamani sustained minor injuries, the police said. The lorry (KA05 AD 6624) was coming towards the city from Hosur, while the couple was returning home from Coimbatore. The police said that the lorry, which was carrying concentric dust to Koramangala, was over speeding. When the stray dog ran in front of the lorry near Singasandra suddenly, the driver swerved right trying to avoid it and lost control of the vehicle. The lorry crashed through the median, overturned on the other side of the road and came to a screeching halt after hitting the car. The two assistants Srinivas and Rajendra died on the spot, while driver Rajappa and his other assistant suffered minor injuries. Sriharis car was completely damaged in the accident, and the stray dog too was killed, the police said. Traffic movement on the busy Hosur Road was disrupted for sometime. The Electronics City police rushed to the spot and cleared the truck, restoring the traffic flow. The police have seized the truck and registered a case at the Electronics City traffic police station. Union minister of state for environment and BJP in-charge of Tamil Nadu affairs Prakash Javadekar meets DMDK president Vijayakanth at his residence in Virugambakkam in Chennai on Sunday. (Photo: DC) Chennai: The BJPs desperate bid to resurrect the NDA, which it forged for the 2014 Lok Sabha elections and projected as an alternative force in TN, hit a roadblock on Sunday with Union minister Prakash Javadekar returning to the national capital without getting a firm yes from DMDK chief Vijayakanth and without meeting the sulking PMK. Meanwhile, rival DMK reiterated hope that Vijayakanth would accept its invitation to join its alliance, so did the Peoples Welfare Front. Adding anxiety in the BJP camp, DMDK released a picture of Captains session with Javadekar with a caption saying it was a mere courtesy meeting. Mr Javadekar, however, said his 24-hour visit to Chennai, which he described as his mission to firm up the alliance for the ensuing polls retaining the allies who were with the NDA in 2014, was fruitful. He said his discussions with NDA partners, especially Captain" (Vijayakanth) at his residence here, was "fruitful. He would brief Party president Amit Shah and Prime Minister Narendra Modi about the outcome of the discussions he had on alliance before announcing the final decision. Asked whether there was any firm commitment from the DMDK that it would stay with the NDA, he replied, "We had fruitful discussion. This is my second meeting with the Captain. I am happy with both meetings. We will tell everything next week." Elaborating he said the discussions with all allies including R. Sarath Kumar of AISMK, revolved on working out a strategy to fight the Assembly polls together. The TN people deserve a good administration which it had not got for the last 50 years. The BJP will provide better governance," he told reporters waiting at a hotel before leaving for the airport in the evening. He assured he would come again after the budget (on Wednesday), and that all alliance partners would be presented before the media at a suitable time." The details in this regard would be worked out in a week's time. He described the hour-long meeting with Vijayakanth as a courtesy call. During the meeting, BJP state unit president Dr Tamilisai Soundararajan was present. According to BJP sources, Vijayakanth had demanded to be accepted as the NDAs CM candidate and wanted the PMK to be kept out of the alliance. He had even offered to rope in TMCs G.K. Vasan into the NDA if the PMK was kept out, a BJP senior who did not want to be quoted said. We may accept him as our CM candidate and also the seats (over 75) that he wants but there are certain other issues that need to be sorted out," he added. PMK's CM candidate Dr Anbumani Ramadoss was said to be at Dharmapuri to oversee his party's meeting and so was not available in the town for parleys with Javadekar. In Hosur, BJP national executive member L. Ganesan claimed that both the DMDK and the PMK would remain in the NDA. The leaders of both the parties showed interest in meeting Javadekar thereby indicating they want to continue in the NDA, he said. Jayalalithaa urged the Centre to ensure that states like Tamil Nadu, which already had sizeable coverage under LPG connections were not left out under the proposed scheme. (Photo: PTI) Chennai: Holding that Union Budget "lacks flavour" with no specific schemes, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa on Monday said it failed to meet the "higher expectations" of the people of the state. While expressing concern over the proposal to privatise road transport sector, Jayalalithaa, however, welcomed proposals such as the Health Insurance Scheme which she said was 'similar' to the one being implemented by her government. "This Budget lacks flavour as it does not have any specific announcements of schemes which would have enthused different segments including the states. It also does not speak of the status of implementation of many schemes announced last year and the year before," she said. "The people of Tamil Nadu had still higher expectations, which have not been met," she said in a statement reacting to the budget presented by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. She said the emphasis on agriculture and rural income were 'welcome' but asserted that doubling of farm income in five years, a 'laudable' objective, should be done in real terms. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is a welcome initiative but the allocation of Rs 5,500 crore appeared "grossly inadequate," she said. The increased outlay for the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana also "responds to the request I have made to the Prime Minister" to ensure speedy completion of approved projects in the state, she said. On the launch of the National Rural Digital Literacy Mission, she said it was "a recognition" of her government's free laptop scheme for school and college students, aimed at bridging the digital divide. Welcoming the announcement to provide LPG connections to poor families, she said it was "aimed at reducing domestic drudgery, the same objective with which her government took up the scheme for distribution of fans, mixies and grinders". She urged the Centre to ensure that states like Tamil Nadu, which already had sizeable coverage under LPG connections were not left out under the proposed scheme. She said schemes for selling generic medicines and Health Protection were "very similar" to her government's 'Amma Marunthagam' (pharmacies) and the Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance scheme. Requesting the Centre to converge the new health protection scheme with that of Tamil Nadu's, she said it would not only enable smoother rollout of the Central initiative but also reduce overlap and administrative burden. Chief Minister Oommen Chandys official car that met with an accident at Kanakkery in Ettumanoor on Sunday. (Photo: DC) Thiruvananthapuram: Chief Minister Oommen Chandy escaped unhurt after his car met with an accident at Kanakkary in Ettumanoor at 2:50 am on Sunday. He had a narrow escape and if not for the seat belt he had on, it would have been a different case. Usually, the CM tries to end his car journey by 12.30 am but there were seven programmes on Saturday and they went on until the wee hours. CMs car skidded and fell into a drain after hitting the wall nearby when its right tyre burst. The CM was sitting on the left rear seat behind his gunman Ashokan, who suffered minor injuries. Car driver K. Radhakrishnan, a Vellarada native, was at a reasonable speed and was returning from Malappuram to Kottayam. He told DC that the CM was taking a catnap when the tyre burst and five minutes before the accident, he had asked them where they had reached. I was asleep when the incident occurred, Mr Chandy later told reporters. I had fastened my seatbelt and we had a miraculous escape. The CM continued his trip in the escort car to Nattakom Guest House where he reached at 4 am. Doctors from Kottayam Medical College examined him and they wanted to take his ECG. But he declined, saying he would let them know if he felt any discomfort. Sources close to the CM told DC that he hardly slept after the accident as he had a mass to attend at St Thomas Orthodox Church, Pampady, at 5 am. Earlier, the CM had dinner from Pattambi MLA C. P. Mohammeds house and by 11.50 pm, the entourage reached Thrissur and was on their way to Kottayam when the accident happened on the Vaikom Ettumanoor Road. The CM had eight programmes in his Puthupally constituency today. After that, he left for Aluva to inaugurate two major bridges and rested in Ernakulam. On Monday, he would inaugurate the ceremony of the test flight landing at the Kannur International Airport and from there he would proceed to Kasaragod. The CM is expected to arrive here on Tuesday morning on the Maveli Express. Meerut Protestors demanding reservation for Jats in government jobs burn an effigy of Haryana Chief Minister. (Photo: PTI) New Delhi: All Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs in Haryana will be contributing a month's salary to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for providing financial assistance to those affected during the recent Jat quota stir. The decision in this regard was made in a meeting chaired by Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar with all the Haryana BJP MLAs. State Transport Minister Krishan Lal Panwar, who had earlier decided to contribute his one month's salary to the fund, had appealed to his cabinet colleagues, MLAs and officials of the state government to come forward and help the affected people. Urban Local Bodies Minister Kavita Jain has already decided to contribute her one month's salary to the Chief Minister's Relief Fund for the same cause. New Delhi: The Home Ministry is all set to examine files relating to the controversial Ishrat Jahan case after former Home Secretary G K Pillai said ex-Home Minister P Chidambaram had changed an affidavit, which originally described Ishrat and her slain aides as LeT operatives. "We are trying to locate files relating to Ishrat Jahan case. We are yet to get all files as some of these are yet to be traced," a senior Home Ministry official said. The official said re-look of the Ishrat Jahan files was necessitated following the statement of the former Home Secretary. "We are looking at the files keeping in view that new facts have come to light," he said. Pillai yesterday claimed that as Home Minister during UPA government, Congress leader Chidambaram had recalled the file a month after the original affidavit, which described Ishrat and her slain aides as LeT operatives, was filed in Supreme Court. "Only after the affidavit was revised, as directed by the minister, did the file come to me," Pillai is quoted as saying by a media report. The then UPA government had submitted two affidavits - one that the four, who were killed in an alleged fake encounter, were terrorists and the second saying there was no conclusive evidence - within two months in 2009. There's nothing for the treatment of farmers. Only opening cheap medicine stores will not help, says Kejriwal. (Photo: PTI) New Delhi: The Union Budget does not address the concerns of the farmers and the middle class, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said, accusing the Narendra Modi government of "cheating" them while questioning the black money amnesty scheme. Kejriwal, who is campaigning for the upcoming Punjab Assembly polls, claimed that loans of industrialists have been waived" in the Budget and wondered why a similar relief has "not been" extended to the farmers. "The budget has nothing for farmers in distress who are committing suicides. Farmers are reeling under huge debt. Loans of industrialists have been waived but not that of farmers. Nothing for middle class in this budget. Modi govt cheated middle class which votes for them," he said in a series of tweets. Kejriwal also sharply reacted to the Centre's four-month compliance window for domestic black money holders for them to come clean by paying tax and penalty of 45 per cent, saying BJP had proposed "enforcement" measures instead. "BJP vowed to bring back black money through enforcement, not through amnesty schemes. This is what Chidambaram also did. What is the difference? "There's nothing for the treatment of farmers. Only opening cheap medicine stores will not help. There should be dispensaries in every village where treatment will be free," he tweeted. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today said the Budget is aimed at improving rural infrastructure and increasing rural income as the biggest challenge to the economy is agrarian distress. He announced an allocation of nearly Rs 36,000 crore for the farm sector while raising the agri-credit target to Rs 9 lakh crore for the next fiscal. Hyderabad: The alliance forged by the Congress, Telugu Desam and the BJP in Mahbubnagar district for the Atchampet municipal polls to take on the TRS has generated considerable interest in political circles. Congress and TD leaders say they will not rule out the possibility of similar alliances in other elections. Leaders of both parties also admitted of having such an understanding in the Khammam Municipal Corporation polls in some divisions. In the Atchampet municipality, which is going to polls along with Warangal and Khammam Municipal Corporations on May 6, local leaders from the three Opposition parties have decided to forge an alliance and are contesting together by sharing the 20 wards. The Congress is contesting from 13, Telugu Desam from four and the BJP from the remaining three to make it a Mahaku-tami (grand alliance) against the ruling TRS. Earlier, too, such experiments were done at the initiative of local Congress leaders for sarpanch elections in Nakrekal (Nalgonda) and Jadcherla (Mahbubnagar). In both instances it worked. Former Congress MLA from Atchampet, Dr Vamsi Krishna, took the initiative this time and extended the experiment to the entire municipality. TRS president and Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao has entrusted the job of winning the Atchampet municipality to industries minister Jupally Krishna Rao who has been taking whirlwind tours in the wards for the last few days. Mr Krishna Rao has been asking people to defeat the Mahakutami candidates and ensure a big win for the TRS so that Atchampet can be developed by the Chief Minister. However, the state leaders of the three Opposition parties were not ready to comment on whether the Atchampet formula would be adopted for all future elections as of now. A TPCC senior leader holding a key party post told this newspaper on Sunday, Officially we cannot commit ourselves to having an alliance with the BJP, but unofficially it is there. In the Khammam Municipal Corporation elections we have an agreement over seat sharing with the CPI". "We also had an understanding with the Telugu Desam in certain divisions, this we cannot disclose officially. But one thing is clear, we will not let the TRS sweep the elections by splitting the Opposition votes anymore. The leader also said that some understanding with other Opposition parties had been planned in the Warangal Municipal Corporation elections too but the sudden defection of former minister Basavaraju Saraiah a day before the nominations had altered the election arithmetic. Now, candidates have been fielded by one and all, and we still may reach an understanding with others against the TRS to see to it that the ruling party is defeated, the TPCC leader added. New Delhi: The Supreme Court had been moved on Monday for initiating contempt of court proceedings against former Home Minister P. Chidambaram for allegedly filing a false affidavit in the Ishrat Jahan fake encounter case. Advocate M.L. Sharma who has filed this petition in public interest said that by filing a false affidavit, the former Home Minister had committed contempt and perjury. He also sought quashing of the false fake encounter case registered against Gujarat police officers, based on this affidavit. He said on 11.2.2016 he came to know about the judicial proceeding and statement of Mr. David Headley, who conspired with the Lashkar-e-Taiba, for short LeT, in plotting the 26/11/2008 Mumbai attacks, stated via video conference and recorded in the special court at Mumbai declared above 4 persons including of Ishrat Jahan who were killed in Jun 2004 by the Gujarat Police,were part of LeT terrorist organisation belonging to Pakistan and they were assigned to kill then Chief Minister of Gujarat, Narendra Modi. He said that it is a judicial fact that all 4 persons including Ishrat Jahan killed by the Gujarat state police were terrorists. In Jun 2004 within planned conspiracy Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) terrorist organization assigned target to their four members, Ishrat Jahan Raza, a 19-year-old woman from Mumbra, Maharashtra, Javed Ghulam Sheikh (born as Pranesh Pillai),Amjad Ali Rana and Zeeshan Johar, to kill Mr. Modi. Gujarat state police claimed that Ishrat Jahan and her associates were Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) operatives based on an affidavit filed by the IB in theGujarat High Court during FBI interrogation that Ishrat Jahan was a Fidayeen. However, this affidavit was changed within few months at the instance of Mr. Chidambaram. As a resul Gujarat police officers are facing false cases, he said and sought a direction to quash the case against the police officers and to initiate contempt of court proceedings against Chidambaram. New Delhi: The Supreme Court on Monday sought the response of the Centre on a petition filed by a Muslim woman challenging the triple talaq provision in the Muslim personal law for grant of divorce. A Bench of Justices Anil R. Dave and A.K. Goel issued notice after hearing senior counsel Amit Singh and counsel Balaji Srinivasan questioning the legality of the provision. The petitioner Shayara Banu is a female Muslim citizen whose husband has illegally divorce her after frequently subjecting her to cruelty during the currency of their marriage. The Petitioner wishes to secure a life of dignity, unmarred by discrimination on the basis of gender or religion. She therefore seeks a writ or order or direction declaring the practices of talaq-e-bidat (instantaneous triple-talaq), nikah halala (bar against remarriage with divorced husband without an intervening marriage with another man), and polygamy under Muslim personal laws as illegal, unconstitutional, and violative of Articles 14, 15, 21 and 25 of the Constitution. She said this Court has already taken the view that gender discrimination against Muslim women needs to be examined and has, inter alia, observed that laws dealing with marriage and succession are not a part of religion, the law has to change with time, and international covenants and treaties could be referred to examine validity and reasonableness of a provision. The practices under challenge, which practically treat women like chattel belonging to men, are neither harmonious with the modern principles of human rights and gender equality (as enshrined in the Constitution as well as various international treaties and covenants), nor an integral part of Islamic faith. Various noted scholars have also expressed the view that talaq-e-bidat has no foundation in the Holy Quran. In fact, many Islamic nations, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Iraq, have banned or restricted such practices, while they continue to vex not only Indian Muslim women like the Petitioner but also the society at large, notwithstanding that the Muslim community of India has itself been clamouring for reform and ban of oppressive practices that have no basis in Islam or the Holy Quran. The Petitioner has been divorced by her husband as her family was unable to meet the demands for additional dowry. The divorce was by way of triple-talaq (talaq-e-bidat) which was confirmed by a divorce, she said and prayed for quashing the provision. Hyderabad: The TS government is hopeful that Mondays Union Budget will address bifurcation-related issues that were ignored in the previous two Budgets. Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao and finance minister Etela Rajender had recently met Prime Minister Narendra Modi and finance minister Arun Jaitley and submitted a wish list. Mr Rao and Mr Rajender have met Mr Modi and Mr Jaitley on several occasions seeking fulfillment of promises made to Telangana in the AP Reorganisation Act, 2014 by incorporating them in the budget and alloting funds. These had failed to figure in the previous two budgets. Mr Rajender said, Only two weeks ago, the CM had met Mr Modi and sought inclusion of a huge financial assistance. The PM responded positively and we hope the new budget will include all these issues. Prior to Mr Raos Delhi tour, Mr Rajender had also met Mr Jaitley and urged him to relax the Fiscal Responsibility and Budget Management norms to incre-ase the states borrowing limit from 3 to 3.5 per cent of gross state domestic product. AIMIM says, double minorities Budget MIM president Asaduddin Owaisi and party floor leader in the Assembly Akbaruddin Owaisi on Sunday called on Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao and sought an increase in the budget for minority welfare from Rs 1,000 crore to Rs 2,000 crore. Mr Asaduddin Owaisi told the CM that Rs 1,000 crore was not sufficient. The MIM leaders asked Mr Rao to release the backlog of education scholarships for minority students. An official source from the MIM said Mr Rao had responded positively to the requests made by the Owaisi brothers. The MP also requested the CM to allot 65 acre in Ranga Reddy district for Muslim graveyards. The CM has agreed, the source said. The source said the MIM president had requested Mr Rao to grant Rs 500 crore towards minority loans. He requested extension of last date for submitting loan applications from February 29 to March 7. Mr Asaduddin Owaisi later tweeted that Mr Rao had responded positively to their representations. He asked the CM to clear the Rs 470 crore compensation for road-widening, using Wakf lands. On an average 600 Japanese nationals arrive at Delhi Airport daily. It is expected that extension of this facility to Japanese nationals will further strengthen the business and tourism ties between the two countries. (Photo: AFP) New Delhi: In a move that is expected to boost inflow of tourists and business visitors, the Visa-on-Arrival facility will be rolled out for Japanese nationals from Tuesday. This facility will be available at six airports viz. Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Hyderabad. This facility can be availed for the purposes of business, tourism, conference and medical. Validity of this visa after entry will be for a period of 30 days. About 1.80 lakh Japanese nationals visit India every year on various kinds of visas. Business and Tourist Visas constitute around 78 percent of these. On an average 600 Japanese nationals arrive at Delhi Airport daily. It is expected that extension of this facility to Japanese nationals will further strengthen the business and tourism ties between the two countries. As of now, the visa-on-arrival facility will be given only to Japanese nationals but it may be extended to more countries like Republic of Korea in later stages. During the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to India during December last year, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced that India will extend 'Visa on arrival' to Japanese citizens from March 1, 2016. Soon after Finance Minister Arun Jaitley presented the budget for the fiscal year 2016-17, reactions started pouring in from all corners of the opposition. Heres what they had to say: Rahul Gandhi, Vice President, Congress: Budget 2016 lacks both vision & conviction. A list of new promises w/o any account of the failure of tall promises made in last 2 budgets. Budget2016 lacks both vision &conviction.A list of new promises w/o any account of the failure of tall promises made in last 2 budgets!(3/3) Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 29, 2016 However, he thanked Jaitley for accepting my recommendation on removing import duty on Braille paper to help the visually impaired! I want to thank the FM though for accepting my recommendation on removing import duty on Braille paper to help the visually impaired! Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 29, 2016 P Chidambaram, former Finance Minister and Congress leader: One big takeaway from the budget is that there is no new idea. "Pro-poor" and all are catch-all phrases, I want to know who is happy? Tax payers? Market? The middle class? I dont think so. I don't think the government is yet, come to grips, with the problems of key sectors: steel, coal, oil and gas, cement." Arvind Kejriwal, Delhi Chief Minister: Nothing for middle class in this budget. Modi govt cheated middle class which votes for them. Nothing for middle class in this budget. Modi govt cheated middle class which votes for them Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 29, 2016 "BJP vowed to bring back black money through enforcement, not through amnesty schemes. This is what Chidambaram also did. What is the difference?" BJP vowed to bring back black money thro enforcement, not thro amnesty schemes. This is wat Chidambaram also did. What is the difference? Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 29, 2016 Jayalalithaa, Tamil Nadu Chief Minster: "This Budget lacks flavour as it does not have any specific announcements of schemes which would have enthused different segments including the states. It also does not speak of the status of implementation of many schemes announced last year and the year before." Nitish Kumar, Bihar Chief Minister: "There is nothing in the budget for farmers or any other section of society. People got only disappointment from the budget of the BJP government. Mocking Modi, who had yesterday said he had an exam today with reference to the budget, Kumar said, "The result is out and he failed to pass." Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah: "Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had created huge expectations among people. The PM had expressed his special concern for farmers in his recent Mann Ki Baat, but that is not reflecting in the budget, On the whole, this budget is disappointing. It is very average and not farmer friendly. These are only my initial reactions. I'm yet to go through it in detail." Omar Abdullah, President, J&K National Conference: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has"cleverly" made opposition parties' job difficult by not making Corporate sector the focus of the Union budget. By not focusing the benefits of #UnionBudget2016 on the #suitboot people @arunjaitley has cleverly made the opposition's job a bit tougher. Omar Abdullah (@abdullah_omar) February 29, 2016 Sitaram Yechury, CPI leader: As with the previous two budgets, this budget of the Modi govt is again full of hollow promises and slogans. The budget will not kick start the economy. It is appealing to international capital more than meeting the requirement of the people. Living standard of the people is bound to fall further." Lalu Prasad Yadav, RJD Chief: "He (the PM) emerged as a "bhusgol vidyarthi" (dull student) in the examination," the RJD chief said. Prasad also attacked the BJP government over the one time four-month compliance window for domestic black money holders to come clean by paying tax and penalty of 45 per cent. Shashi Tharoor, Congress leader: "The government has painted a very broad and general picture and it has to be seen how everything works out in practice." D Raja, CPI Leader: "Outside budget they promised a lot to corporate sector. Not evident now. Nothing spectacular in budget." M Karunanidhi, DMK President: "The budget presented by the Modi-led government has no new tax concessions. While there were big expectations on increasing the income-tax slab, no such thing has been announced. This has led to big disappointment among the tax paying middle classes and salaried persons." Bengaluru: Next time you hit the road in your car on city streets make sure you are wearing helmet in addition to the fastening seat belt! Yes, you read that right. In a bizarre case, a Bharatiya Janata Party state media in charge Prakash S. couldnt believe when he received a challan from Bengaluru Traffic Police on Sunday, charging him with not wearing helmet while riding pillion, while the registration number mentioned in the challan was that of his Toyota Innova Car. Prakash told Deccan Chronicle that when he checked the challan, he couldnt believe it. But, when looked at it closely he found the challan had his car registration number along with the type of offence not using helmet while riding pillion. The registration number of my car is KA 04 MP 7257 and the same is printed in the challan with a fine amount of `100 for the pillion rider not wearing helmet. This is callousness on the part of the traffic police and should be rectified immediately. If this is the case then imagine how many more people have received such faulty challans. The additional commissioner of police (traffic) Mr. M.A. Saleem should look into the matter and make sure that such things dont happen again, Prakash added. The challan mentioned that the incident happened on February 3, near Basaweshwara circle. When contacted a senior police officer, he said, The error might be due to a technical fault, we will ask the official concerned to look into it. New Delhi: Shortly after Finance Minister Arun Jaitley tabled the Union Budget on Monday, Prime Minister Narendra Modi addressed the nation saying its main goal was to improve the condition of rural India. Common man must be relieved from complex Income tax processes, Modi said and added that the budget clearly calls for electrifying all villages and will give an impetus to rural infrastructure. Through this budget housing sector will also be strengthened and this will boost our dream of 'Housing for All'. Emphasising that the budget was mainly about helping to manifest the dream of the people, Modi said, For us primary education is very important. A qualitative transformation of the education sector is what we are giving priority to. Women, farmers and rural India are the focus of the budget, Modi re-emphasised, and added that important steps have been taken in the Budget in the direction of doubling income of farmers by 2022. Claiming that the budget will create a big change in the lives of common people, Modi said that the it has laid a roadmap to alleviate poverty in a time-bound manner. "Several steps have been taken for the farmers. The most important is Pradhan Mantri Krishi Yojana," he said. For MNREGA, there has been the biggest allocation, he added. Meanwhile BJP veteran Lal Krishna Advani dubbed the General Budget for 2016-17 as the best ever, saying it has the potential to boost India's economic growth with employment generation while reducing social imbalances. "Have seen many budgets being presented in Parliament, the one presented by Finance Minister Jaitley today is certainly one of the best budget so far. Budget 2016 has potential to boost India's economic growth with employment generation, while reducing social imbalances. ," Advani said. "Budget 2016 has made unprecedented provision for accelerating and modernising infrastructure in critical areas such as highways, railways. At a time when global economy remains weak, India's growth is laudable. It looks to become even brighter in the coming years," he added. Food Minister Ram Vilas Paswan termed the Budget as "development oriented", and said it is in the interest of poor, farmers and youth. "The budget is development-oriented. It is in the interest of poor, farmers, and youth. There is special focus on agriculture, infrastructure, rural development, education and social sectors," Paswan tweeted. In the Budget, an allocation of Rs 1.40 lakh crore has been provided for the Food Ministry, which is almost similar to the last year. Of this allocation, Rs 1.34 lakh crore is earmarked for food subsidy. For the Consumer Affairs Department, the allocation has been increased substantially to Rs 1,241.61 crore for 2016-17 from Rs 306.13 crore in the previous year. The allocation has increased as the Price Stabalisation Fund has been shifted to this department from the Agriculture Ministry. While presenting the budget, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley emphasised the need to ensure MSP reaches to farmers across the country. For which, he proposed three initiatives which will be carried out by the Food Ministry in 2016-17. "First, the remaining states will be encouraged to take up decentralized procurement. Second, an online Procurement System will be undertaken through the Food Corporation of India. This will usher in transparency and convenience to the farmers through prior registration and monitoring of actual procurement. Third, effective arrangements have been made for pulses procurement," Jaitley said. Meanwhile, Power Minister Piyush Goel described the Budget as a "transformational" one and said, "Vast subjects have been covered in it". Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, "It is a Budget for every Indian. This budget has taken care of the rural India, gram panchayat, and urban India. It takes care of those who need healthcare. It has taken care of infrastructure. It brings a stable tax regime." The BJP veteran further said the most heartening of the Budget is its strong emphasis on the neglected task of revitalisation of agriculture and rural development. "Prime Minister and Finance Minister adopted approach that promises to make India stronger and more prosperous, while making 'Antyodaya' central theme of economic growth," he added. Unlike last time when his fight with former chief minister, B.S. Yeddyurappa on alleged land scams was bitter and intense, this time, JD(S) state president H.D. Kumaraswamys struggle against Chief Minister Siddaramaiah is not a well planned one. By his own admission, Mr Kumaraswamy says he did not expect the wristwatch row to snowball into a major controversy. He has strong views on the ZP and TP results and the fractured verdict in many of them which has made alliances necessary. In an interview with Deccan Chronicle, the former CM candidly admitted that a few of his leaders were out to finish the party. Here are excerpts from the interview. How do you analyse zilla panchayat and taluk panchayat election results? We have not gone up or come down in this poll. We are where we were. In 2011, we won 718 taluk panchayat seats, this time, we got 610. In all, we got power independently in 28 taluk panchayats in 2011, this time, we will get power in 26. Now we will analyse the ZP results. Last time, we got 180 seats, this time we have 148. What happened this time was that we had to campaign for the by-polls too. A precious five days had to be devoted to the bypolls. I could not spend much time for zilla panchayat and taluk panchayat elections. In Kolar and Tumakuru, we committed harakiri. Otherwise, we would have got a clear majority in both districts. The Congress won by giving Rs 500-1000 to each voter. For every seat, Rs 8-10 crore was spent by the ruling party. We did not give a single paisa this time. At least in 2010, we had given some money to our candidates. This time, we had a fund crunch. This election will not have any bearing on the next assembly polls. Last time, the Bharatiya Janata Party got 600 odd seats in zilla panchayat polls but got only 40 assembly seats. You are losing popularity and people are slowly distancing themselves from your party. You are not ready to accept the reality. One example is Ramanagar district which you lost. One minister was enough to knock you out. Since you gave the example of Ramanagar, I will tell you that I did not go there this time. But I went to Kanakapura. I am pained over things happening in Ramanagara. It is because of Balakrishna (Magadi MLA H.D. Balakrishna). He keeps going there and bad-mouthing me. Our party leaders too did not educate him. Sometime back he had said that if given the districts responsibility, he would build the party. So, I promptly gave him the responsibility. Yes, in zilla panchayat elections, we suffered a setback. In 2010, we won almost all seats. But in the 2013 assembly polls, my wife lost. When S.M. Krishna was the Chief Minister, Congress won 23 of the 28 zilla panchayats, including Hassan. But when the assembly election came, they came down to 62 seats and our tally went upto 58. There is a minister from Ramanagar who will not only finish you, he will finish your party. Even before a minister finishes our party, there are some (leaders) in our party who are trying to finish the Janata Dal (Secular). I have kept myself away from the district for tactical reasons. But I am not afraid of anyone. No one can finish my party. Just because, they have money power, they think they can finish us off. But when we approach the assembly election, the political atmosphere will change. In 2008 and 2013, I filed my nominations but did not go there. Still I won. Now, the atmosphere is bit vitiated. There is a set pattern in your style. A year before the elections, you turn idealistic. You say if we give tickets to good candidates, we will win. But, when the elections take place, you mess up. Party leaders accuse you of taking money from potential candidates. If you indulge in such acts, how can the party grow? (a bit agitated) Where did I take money? Who said this? Your party leaders say this openly.. In Assembly elections, we do not take money from anyone. People who come to us, we know their condition. We have to give them money. Those who make allegations against me, I know from where they had collected funds. We have leaders in our party who take money to campaign in particular constituencies. Who are they? I know them, but I do not want to name them. They are the ones who level allegations against me. I am the one who gave money to my candidates and campaigned for them. I never took money from anyone. When there were rumours that your son Nikhil would enter politics, your father and Janata Dal (Secular) president H.D. Deve Gowda gave a promise that none from your family would enter politics in future. Now, you broke the promise, brought Bhavani Revanna into politics quietly. This time, sons of legislators and the kith and kin of ministers entered politics in almost all districts. Fielding Bhavani was not our family decision. During the MLC election, there was pressure to field her. We opposed it and we lost the Hassan seat. This time, workers insisted and we made her contest the zilla panchayat polls. In Madhugiri, workers insisted and I had to field my wife (Anita Kumaraswamy) but she lost. To save the party, we took such decisions. What is your strategy in districts that witnessed a fractured verdict? We have to consult newly elected zilla panchayat members and local MLAs. I feel we should go with one party across the state. Going with different parties in different districts may damage the partys image. As a former Chief Minister, which party is your best ally? This is my personal opinion and we dont want to thrust it on our workers. After two and half years of committing so many blunders, the Congress is disliked by people. If we join hands with them, we may earn flak. Whichever party we go with now, the arrangement may not be permanent. Workers are opposed to an alliance with the Congress. We will take a call. Your party is dubbed opportunistic and power-hungry. The Congress may offer you zilla panchayat president posts in return for forging an alliance. You know this time, the zilla panchayat president post comes with the power of a minister. What will you do? In zilla panchayats where we have very less seats, if we insist on getting the president posts, people may think we are power hungry. In nine districts, we can join hands with the Congress or the Bharatiya Janata Party to run the administration. We have to have a give and take policy. Their party nominee can become president and our candidate can become vice president. And after two-and-a-half years, we can have a reversal of roles. Whichever party we go with, we would like to have talks in detail. Has any party came forward with an alliance offer? Feelers are coming from both parties. We are not going to anyones house. To run the ZPs, we will decide which is the best option. As finance minister Arun Jaitley began reading his third Budget on Monday morning, one of the headlines quoting him was interesting. It read: This Budget deals with the reality of India: Jaitley. It should have actually read: Jaitleys Budget finally accepts reality of India. As the saying goes, der aaye, durust aaye. Better late than never. After almost two years of promising great change through rapid economic growth (Gujarat Model, anyone?), the Bharatiya Janata Party has narrowed on what the ideal economic policy is for India and it doesnt look very different from that of the United Progressive Alliance. The Congress reaction to the Budget Nothing new in this budget was petty and predictable. Former finance minister Chidambaram said: One big takeaway from the Union Budget is that there is no new idea. Former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also said that there were no big ideas in this bill. That should actually be cause for celebration. What was required was continuation of NREGA and expansion of Aadhar and of Direct Benefits Transfer. What was required was focus on the rural economy and infrastructure. And also sharpened focus on health and education, with less stress on defense. That the Budget attempts to deliver on some of these and stays clear of bullet train type of nonsense is a matter of great relief. So what explains the change? The Budget indicates that BJP has been tamed to some extent by the politics of the last six months. This may be surprising to some because, on most evenings, the BJP has won the debate on the news channels which are aimed at the middle class constituency. It has clouted the Congress and liberals on such issues as intolerance and nationalism. But those who voted and supported the government on more substantial issues would have scratched their heads wondering why the focus of the government was on such trifles while the economic problems remained significant. Why was the government so obsessed with the cultural anxieties of the urban middle class and expending so much energy on them? This Budget corrects some of that perception. It will be difficult to say this is the Budget of a suit-boot ki sarkar. It is not. The Congress should be pleased that this Budget validates its policies. That it does not choose to do so is silly. The Modi government has made a significant political decision through this Budget, and it is moving Left, towards the centre of the political space. This should concern the Congress. The people most disappointed with Mr Jaitley and Mr Modi will be those on the Right who assumed that there would be enormous change and difference in a Modi Budget over a Manmohan one. They may have thought that the first couple of times were too soon and that Mr Jaitley would in this, his third Budget, wind himself up and hit the ball for a six. Unfortunately, that was not a mature view. It assumed that the solution lay in such things as liberalisation and reform; that the problem in India was too much government and that the state needed to reduce in size. These are ridiculous solutions in a country where the presence of the state in policing, health, education and other basics is minimal. Mr Modi has made no attempt to reduce the size of the state though he is promising, once again, to make it more efficient. At least one-half of the slogan, minimum government, maximum governance, has turned out to be false. And again, this is a matter of relief. That it took all these months should not detract us from the fact that the thinking is prudent and cautious. So is this Budget going to help growth? The truth is that, and forget everything you have read and seen about the Budget, nobody really knows. Realism may have reentered our politics with this Budget, but the market has been realist for a very long time now. Any grand ideas of rapid growth under Mr Modi vanished from the financial markets last year. The only thing the market was looking for from this Budget was big negatives. The Sensex plunged 600 points at one point after Mr Jaitley began speaking. It then decided that what he was saying wasnt that disastrous after all and recovered 800 points before concluding that this was business as usual. And business as usual has been bad on Dalal Street and so it rested 150 points below where it was when this fine Budget was presented. Unless there is some revival externally, which is most unlikely, investors should assume that the bull run that was predicted in the Modi era is not going to come. For most economists, the government has retained credibility by sticking to its fiscal deficit targets. All told, to me this Budget is old wine in an old bottle and thank heavens for that. One wishes the change of tack and focus that one sees in this Budget would come elsewhere. This government has spent almost its entire time in office running after useless issues that have damaged the image of India and pained many of its citizens. A less reckless and more cautious approach on cultural issues, particularly those linked to Hindutva and nationalism, would please those of us who think this needs urgent addressing. Unfortunately, the thinking in the BJP has long been that it can calibrate its cultural agenda. And that turning up the heat just before elections, and episodically, as it is doing with the JNU and intolerance issues, is helpful with voters. So long as that kind of thinking remains in the party we must anticipate, sadly, that there will be other issues on which all the bitterness and bile we have seen in 2015 and the opening months of this year will return. It will take a significant defeat for the BJP to let go of that mischief, which may please many in the middle class but ultimately damages India. For now we should be happy that, at least on the economic front, the needle has moved to the centre, if not to the Left. Jawaharlal Nehru University students take part in solidarity march for Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya who are facing charges of sedition, in JNU campus in New Delhi on Wednesday late night. (Photo: PTI) Beyond the passions events in Jawaharlal Nehru University have caused in Parliament and outside it, a new strategy of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) and the broader Sangh Parivar is taking shape. As BJP leaders jab at opponents on grounds of being less than patriotic, the Parivar has decided to combat an increasing sense of disillusionment among the public with the BJP government with the blunt instrument of nationalism. After winning power, the Parivars intention was to change the idea of India from a modern secular discourse to a Hindu-influenced nation rich in myths, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi given the task of marrying it to governance and a measure of modernity. The new dispensation began with the RSS capturing the key ideologically-related ministries of human resources development and culture. But the process of spreading the Hindutva ideology has been advanced by casting it in stone with the Indian flag and a shrieking form of nationalism. It was no coincidence that the student wing of the BJP called military veterans to the JNU campus to beat the drums of nationalism and declare their belief that students should be indoctrinated in its narrow definition. Whether they are influenced by the old Nazi ideology is not certain, but the Parivar has decided to use an exaggerated form of nationalism to dragoon voters to cast their lot with the BJP. There are, of course, such muscular ancillaries of the Parivar as the Bajrang Dal to enforce compliance, if necessary. In line with the new strategy, one saw the unusual spectacle of men in lawyers black jackets carrying the tricolour hoisted on long bamboo poles in the Patiala House courts complex while the case against Kanhaiya Kumar, president of the JNU students union charged with sedition, came up for hearing. These same lawyers roughed up journalists and JNU students for allegedly being anti-national. And the lawyers later took out a victory procession. The intensified process of creating nationalists of the Parivar variety has two objectives: to change the idea of India and counter the anti-incumbency wave ahead of a season of important elections in a number of states. The bugle was sounded by no other than home minister Rajnath Singh who employed an apparent fake tweet from the Lashkar-e-Tayyaba chief Hafiz Saeed to link JNU student protests with the Pakistani evil mind thus giving a Pakistan twist to events in the university. There will doubtless be further refinements to the Parivars propagation of its form of nationalism as more heads are bashed up at more gatherings of the young and old and benign police forces look on. More young women will be chased out of Bengaluru pubs. More modern paintings will be destroyed although the Parivars favourite target, M.F. Husain, is no more. The top Parivar leadership will doubtless meet sooner rather than later to take stock of the situation as its followers wear nationalism on their sleeves. Debates in the two Houses of Parliament were revealing for Smriti Iranis defence of her ministry and government with more passion than wisdom as for the Oppositions combined onslaught in the face of growing intolerance of dissent by authority. Perhaps the most cogent case was made in the Rajya Sabha by the former Harvard academic and member of the Trinamul Congress, Sugata Bose. He pleaded, What must be avoided at all cost is the criminalisation of dissent. He went on to describe the treasury benches brand of nationalism as narrow, selfish and arrogant. Judging by the performance of Mr Modis ministers, the word from the top was to strike a belligerent note to get the better of the Opposition. But many questions remain unanswered. While treating a students demonstration as a major attack on the nation and exaggerating its import by slapping sedition charges, where will the train stop? As the reaction from many academic institutions from across the country demonstrated, students are getting increasingly restless. And the vice-chancellor of Aligarh Muslim University has warned that increasing threats to its, and other institutions, autonomy can have dangerous consequences. A recent triumph of a meeting of Central university vice-chancellors logged by Ms Irani was to enforce the flying of the national flag of a certain height atop Central university buildings. No one can object to such display of patriotism but it is part of the larger scheme of propagating a certain kind of patriotism that places a premium on using the tricolour in aid of the Sangh Parivar. We are witnessing the opening shots of a long-term game in which the national flag is an accessory to the conversion of an essentially Nehruvian idea of India into an Indian superpower of the Parivars dream in which Hindutva will reign supreme and dissenters will be made to feel unwelcome. In modern historic terms, the nearest analogy to this dream lies in the political philosophy of Nazi Germany, whether consciously conceived as such or not. There are moments in a nations life when politicians resolve and circumstances determine its future. If a nation of 1.3 billion people of diverse faiths, ethnicities and languages is sought to be confined to a straitjacket, explosions will inevitably occur. Additionally, the process of getting to the Parivar ideal is fraught with risks. The BJP leadership might well believe that opposition to its grand plan is limited to an English-speaking elite or Opposition members of Parliament. Masses in the countryside and the urban poor, the word is being spread, are with strident nationalism wrapped up in myths and miracles of ancient India. Such reasoning has been proved wrong time and again. Taking a rather recent Indian historical example, Indira Gandhis Emergency led to her cataclysmic defeat when voters were asked. Equally praiseworthy was the punishment of the divided house the Janata Party had become, leading to the army of ambitious men donning the hat of Prime Minister. They were dumped by the people to bring back Indira. It is difficult to escape the conclusion that Delhi has turned into a battlefront for the right to dissent and freedom of expression. The last time we witnessed an uprising of such proportions, a 23-year-old student had been raped and murdered on the cold night of December 16, 2012. The outrage, over slogans in a university, is divided this time. But the issues raised are no less important Do we still respect the freedom to question the government, and will those who stand up for others rights be protected? About 1,500 km away from Delhi, in Bastar, these questions are being raised even more starkly. State repression has steadily turned from slow burn to full explosion. For activists and journalists based here, routine questioning by the police is an expected hazard, but now arrest is also a real threat. Local journalist Santosh Yadav has been in detention for nearly five months on trumped-up charges. Even before he was arrested in September 2015, he was frequently harassed by the police (and on one occasion, even stripped and beaten) for reporting on the plight of adivasis in the region. (Thousands of adivasis, accused of being Naxalites, languish in overcrowded jails in Chhattisgarh. As per data compiled by the Jagdalpur Legal Aid Group, the occupancy rate in jails in the state is 253 per cent, compared to the national average occupancy rate of 114 per cent. In Kanker, it is over 428 per cent.) Mr Yadavs lawyer Isha Khandelwal has been providing free legal assistance to adivasis for years now as part of the Jagdalpur Legal Aid Group (JagLAG), with her colleague Shalini Gera. Last week, the lawyers were asked to leave their home by their landlord after he was suddenly called in for police questioning. An eviction notice was similarly served on Malini Subramaniam, who was until recently one of the few national media journalists living in Bastar and reporting on human rights violations. These activists and journalists have all supported each other. Ms Khandelwal was Ms Subramaniams lawyer in her complaint against members of the Samajik Ekta Manch, an anti-Maoist group with links to the police, who publicly declared her a Naxal supporter. Ms Subramaniam had also reported on the arrest of Mr Yadav under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act and Chhattisgarh Special Public Security Act. Both JagLAG lawyers and Ms Subramaniam have been driven out of Bastar now, and Yadav is still in jail. Soni Sori, the adivasi activist who was raped in custody, and detained for several years, has also come under attack. The assailants who threw a black substance on her on the night of February 20, warned her that they would come after her daughter if she continues to raise her voice against a senior police official in Bastar. Ms Sori had been helping the family of Hadma Kashyap, an alleged Maoist whose family claims he was killed in a fake encounter on February 3, to lodge a formal complaint against the same police official. It is perhaps no coincidence that the hounding out of lawyers and journalists from Bastar, and the attack on Ms Sori, comes on the heels of a series of reports of violence by forces. As the journalist Bela Bhatia has reported, there have been three incidents of adivasi women reporting gangrapes and violence by security forces since November. The police have initially refused to register FIRs in all these cases, and relented only following pressure. The Chhattisgarh police, seldom shy of dubbing journalists as Maoist supporters, have been quick to also use the anti-nationalism narr-ative. Last week, a BBC Hindi journalist in Bastar left an assignment after receiving threats. The IG of Bastar, told the journalist: There is no point wasting my time with journalists like you. The nationalist media supports me. In Bastar, as in Delhi, being branded an anti-national now seems to have acquired new meaning. Once you are declared anti-national, you no longer enjoy fundamental rights. You can no longer criticise the government, and you are no longer entitled to protection against violence, or justice for abuses. In both Bastar and Delhi, as in the medieval witch hunts of Europe, the fires have been lit, and the mobs are standing ready. Once revered as accolades for talents within the film-making community, the Oscars have of late been carrying heavy political messages. The 88th awards may have gone even further than its predecessors in putting out very heavy messages. While most awards were as predicted, a long-pending public issue seemed to capture the mood as the best picture Oscar went to the Church child abuse drama Spotlight, with director Michael Sugar going so far as to drag Pope Francis into the debate on institutional silence over paedophiles in the Church. The tone for a contentious evening was set by comedian Chris Rock firing rockets at the #OscarsSoWhite controversy fuelled by the absence this year of any nominees of colour in the acting categories. The comi-tragic message from the actor, who even said were black when the show returned from a break, was such a mixture that it may have left everyone befuddled. Rocks stand against boycotters achieving nothing in a world that will go on, however, would have resonated around the globe, particularly in India. The winner of the best actor award, Leonardo DiCaprios speech, was a meaningful one on the need for action on climate change. He had highlighted the need to act against the politics of greed at Davos too and his exit line at the Dolby Theatre was dramatic: Let us not taken this planet for granted. I do not take tonight for granted. The amazing thing about the Syrian truce is that its holding, particularly in the north and west. The truces first weekend saw unusual normality in Damascus, which was mostly insulated from the conflagration that killed 250,000 Syrians and left millions displaced, while many areas were destroyed or were captured by terrorists. The international communitys failure has rarely been so stark as in Syria, where a civil war raged for five years as the Islamic State took territory from where it now threatens the world, while Al Qaeda too operates at will. Neither the Bashar al-Assad nor its many opponents have signed the truce in which the US and Russia invested so much faith. Attempts for a UN-sponsored truce failed in 2012, since when Syria has been a hotbed of diverse military activities while the superpowers fought over Mr Assad. The realisation may have dawned that the first priority now is to rein in the Islamic State. They might have had some success in damaging the IS severely in the concerted bombing by the allied powers and Russia in Syria and Iraq, though there are complaints that Russians are targeting groups opposed to Mr Assad rather than IS. While Nusra Front, insurgents allied to Al Qaeda, are entrenched in rebel areas, Hezbollah militants fight alongside Mr Assads troops while Kurdish fighters battle alone, all of which may show how complicated the Syrian situation is. The truce is perhaps only a signal that the world powers can sort things out if they really act in concert. Every time the partys fortunes in Uttar Pradesh dip, the party leaders blame it on the vaastu of the building. Renovating fortunes There is something in the Bharatiya Janata Party office in Lucknow that is just not right at least, this is what the party workers say rather openly. Every time the partys fortunes in Uttar Pradesh dip, the party leaders blame it on the vaastu of the building. The entrance gate of the BJP office has been changed more than half a dozen times and when that did not bring the required change, the party leaders decided that it was a chilbil tree (elm tree) in the premises that was preventing Lady Luck from entering the party. However, even after the chilbil tree was felled, things did not change much.The BJP office has, once again, been given a makeover and, this time, vaastu experts have been consulted at every step. BJP president Amit Shah inaugurated the renovated office last week and party leaders are hopeful that they are all set to form the government in Uttar Pradesh in 2017. A senior party leader, however, had some advice to offer to party workers after Mr Shah inaugurated the building. Buildings dont make parties, parties make buildings and to change our fortunes, we need to change ourselves including leaders who level baseless allegations at each other, he said. Valid advice, but we wonder if anyone was listening. Travel travails Pakistan high commissioner Abdul Basit is an envoy who seems rather fond of travelling within the country. The envoy recently visited Karnataka and Assam. But it was his proposed trip to Tamil Nadu that attracted controversy recently. The ministry of external affairs rubbished certain media reports that claimed that Mr Basit was prevented from visiting Chennai due to lack of timely permission from the MEA. The MEA spokesperson pointed out that on February 12 itself, the permission was given to the high commissioner, his wife and an official of the Pakistan high commission to visit Chennai on February 22. Its inexplicable how such reports gain ground, remarked an exasperated Indian government official, hinting that there was more to it that meets the eye. Well, looks like the MEA and the Pakistan high commission certainly arent on the same page on this one. Modis honey talk The party members expected Prime Minister Narendra Modi to fire all cylinders against the Naveen Patnaik government in Orissa on rising farmer suicide cases at the BJPs farmers rally at Bargarh in Orissa on February 21. But it did not happen. Instead, they got an hour-long sermon on honey cultivation. More than one lakh farmers, who mainly cultivated paddy and vegetables, were present in the rally. They hoped that Mr Modi would announce some compensations and incentives for them in view of the crop loss due to drought. To their utter dismay, Mr Modi devoted most part of his speech on honey cultivation saying it would turn the farmers fortunes around. We have come here to be assured that the NDA is keen to fulfil its pre-poll promise of paying farmers Rs 2,500 per quintal of paddy and other incentives as announced earlier. Instead of doing that, Mr Modi is teaching the paddy growers honey cultivation. Farmers are not politicians who can shift to another party and immediately adopt the culture of the new organisation and its ideology, a few farmers who had come from Barpali murmured while quitting the venue. Senior leaders of the BJP state unit looked a little puzzled when Mr Modi went astray from the mission of holding the farmers rally, but none of them could muster courage to interfere during his speech. Assam Sleepless in Assam A popular Assamese almanac named Kalpurushs prediction about the upcoming Assembly elections in Assam is giving sleepless nights to the politicians. According to him, there will be a hung Assembly that will result in the formation of a coalition government. The almanac has also suggested that the coalition that will come to power will be very unstable. Two political alignments will be in contention, one centred around the Congress and the other around the Bharatiya Janata Party. However, according to Kalpurush, a BJP-led coalition, including the Asom Gana Parishad and the Bodoland Peoples Front, has better chances in forming the next government. One doesnt know if prediction of the Kalpurush will come true or not but restlessness among the politicians is quite visible before the polls. Maratha warrior Sharad Pawar may be down but he is certainly not out. Over the past few weeks, the Maratha strongman was keeping a low profile due to some medical condition. The Nationalist Congress Party president was even hospitalised during this period with concerns expressed in several quarters regarding his ill health. However, with the Budget Session that started on February 23, Mr Pawar was seen attending the Rajya Sabha, seated in the first row greeting his fellow MPs. Despite showing some discomfort, the veteran leader made sure that he interacted with other senior leaders, including the leader of House Arun Jaitley. Three cheers for our Maratha warrior! Salary woes Two special secretaries of the Aam Aadmi Party governments home department are reportedly uncertain whether they would be getting their salary for the month of February. The two officers Subhash Chander and Yashpal Garg were caught in a crossfire between the AAP government and lieutenant-governor Najeeb Jung as the duo had reportedly refused to sign a Cabinet note against the wishes of their minister Satyendra Kumar Jain. But the two were reinstated on the directions of principal secretary S.N. Sahai. Both the officers have got their salaries for the month of January. But the pay and accounts officer has now written to the government to clarify whether their salaries should be released for the month of February. The salary issue of the two hangs in a limbo till the government gives clear instructions on the contentious matter. Kati Patang Kati Patang A simile used by senior Maharashtra Congress leader Kripashankar Singh to describe apparent sliding political fortune of veteran leader and former chief minister Ajit Jogi, has become a subject of intense political debate in Chhattisgarh. Mr Singh who was in Chhattisgarh to participate in the national Kshatriya Sammelan (conference of erstwhile royal families) held on February 13 in Raipur, narrated a story before a group of mediapersons to assign the reason behind the nose diving political career of Mr Jogi. Mr Jogi has found himself at crossroads of his political career today. His political journey is akin to a kati patang (snapped kite), Mr Singh, who is facing charges of acquiring ill-gotten properties, had observed. The fate of Mr Jogi hangs in balance as the Chhattisgarh Pradesh Congress Committees recommendation to All-India Congress Committee to show him the door is still pending with the party high command. Now the Jogi-baiters within the Congress are recollecting a stanza from a song of the 1970 Bollywood movie Kati Patang Na koi umang hai, na koi tarang hai, meri zindagi hai kya, ek kati patang hai to describe his current woes. But the former chief ministers followers have cautioned, Never write off Mr Jogi. Comfy rides Give up comfy rides Though the government has urged consumers to voluntarily give up their LPG subsidy, it might as well issue a similar kind of an appeal to all those members of Parliament, who travel to Parliament in diesel guzzling SUVs. Being servants of the people, the MPs could do well to utilise the electrically-powered bus service which Prime Minister Narendra Modi had proudly inaugurated for use of lawmakers during the Winter Session of Parliament. Several MPs posed for pictures sitting in the bus after the inauguration, but the bus itself is nowhere to be seen during the ongoing Budget Session. Tokenism at its best, one must say! New Delhi: Technology giant Apple Inc has argued that a move to break into the iPhone of one of the San Bernardino shooter would violate free speech rights, override the will of Congress and jeopardise the security of other Apple devices. Apple is a staunch advocate for our customers' privacy and personal safety," Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said, while speaking at the company's annual meeting in Cupertino, California. "These are the right things to do. Being hard doesn't scare us," Cook added. Cook also said that his company is committed to raise its dividend annually, a move designed to please the investors. New Delhi: Technology giant Apple Inc has argued that a move to break into the iPhone of one of the San Bernardino shooter would violate free speech rights, override the will of Congress and jeopardise the security of other Apple devices. Apple is a staunch advocate for our customers' privacy and personal safety," Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook said, while speaking at the company's annual meeting in Cupertino, California. "These are the right things to do. Being hard doesn't scare us," Cook added. Cook also said that his company is committed to raise its dividend annually, a move designed to please the investors. Click on Deccan Chronicle Technology and Science for the latest news and reviews. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter. Washington: India and the United States are closing in on an agreement to share military logistics after 12 years of talks, officials said, a sign of strengthening defence ties between the countries as China becomes increasingly assertive. The United States has emerged as India's top arms source after years of dominance by Russia, and holds more joint exercises with it than any other country. It is in talks with New Delhi to help build its largest aircraft carrier in the biggest military collaboration to date, a move that will bolster the Indian navy's strength as China expands its reach in the Indian Ocean. After years of foot-dragging by previous governments over fears that the logistics agreement would draw India into a binding commitment to support the United States in war, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has signaled a desire to move ahead with the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA). That would allow the two militaries to use each other's land, air and naval bases for resupplies, repair and rest, officials said. Admiral Harry Harris, head of the US Navy's Pacific Command, said the two sides were working on the LSA, another agreement called the CISMOA for secure communications when the militaries operate together, and a third on exchange of topographical, nautical, and aeronautical data. "We have not gotten to the point of signing them with India, but I think we're close," Harris, due in India this week, told the US House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday. The progress comes as the countries consider joint maritime patrols that a US official said could include the South China Sea, where China is locked in a territorial dispute with Vietnam, the Philippines and Taiwan among others. Both sides, though, said there were no immediate plans for such patrols, which drew strong condemnation from Beijing. An Indian government official said the main impediment to signing the LSA had been cleared, after Washington gave an assurance that New Delhi was not bound by it if the US went to war with a friendly country or undertook any other unilateral action that New Delhi did not support. "It has been clarified that it will be done on a case-to-case basis; it's not automatic that either side will get access to facilities in the case of war," the official familiar with the negotiations said. India's previous centre-left government was worried the agreements would undermine India's strategic autonomy and that it would draw it into an undeclared military alliance with the United States. Concerns linger over the proposed communications agreement, with some branches of the military including the air force fearing it would allow the United States to access their communications network. US officials said they hoped that once the logistics agreement was signed, the others would follow. A US defence industry source engaged in business in India said there were expectations the LSA could be sealed by the time US Defence Secretary Ash Carter visited New Delhi in April. The source said Modi's office was directly involved in the matter and actively considering the agreements as a key for enhanced cooperation. India has been alarmed by Chinese naval forays into the Indian Ocean and its involvement in maritime infrastructure on island nations that it traditionally considered its back yard. It has moved to shore up naval forces and build defence ties with Japan and Vietnam, besides the United States. "There is growing convergence between Obama's Asia pivot and Modi's Act East policy," said Saroj Bishoyi, an expert on the proposed India-US collaboration at the government-funded Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses in New Delhi. "The LSA currently appears to be a doable agreement." Tulsi Gabbard's sudden endorsement comes ahead of the Super Tuesday in which front-runner Hillary Clinton is pitched in a tough battle against Bernie Sanders in the 11 States. (Photo: Twitter) Washington: Tulsi Gabbard, the first ever Hindu elected to the US Congress who has a sizeable following among Indian-Americans, today quit a senior Democratic party position to endorse Bernie Sanders as the US presidential candidate. Ms Gabbard's sudden endorsement comes ahead of the Super Tuesday in which front-runner Hillary Clinton is pitched in a tough battle against Mr Sanders in the 11 States where the Democratic Party's presidential primaries are scheduled. Appearing in a Sunday talk show on NBC News, the 34-year-old, said she is stepping down as the vice chair of the Democratic National Committee and is endorsing Mr Sanders, who is attracting thousands of people across the country for his views of health care and education. "There is a clear contrast between our two candidates with regard to my strong belief that we must end the interventionist, regime change policies that have cost us so much. This is not just another issue... it's deeply personal to me," Ms Gabbard said on NBC's 'Meet the Press'. "As a veteran, as a soldier, I've seen firsthand the true cost of war... As we look at our choices as to who our next Commander-in-chief will be is to recognise the necessity to have a Commander-in-chief who has foresight. Who exercises good judgement," she said. "Who looks beyond the consequences -- who looks at the consequences of the actions that they are willing to take before they take those actions. So that we don't continue to find ourselves in these failures that have resulted in chaos in the Middle East and so much loss of life," Ms Gabbard said. Welcoming the endorsement, Mr Sanders said: "Congresswoman Gabbard is one of the important voices of a new generation of leaders. As a veteran of the Iraq War, she understands the cost of war and is fighting to create a foreign policy that not only protects America but keeps us out of perpetual wars." Ms Gabbard, an Iraq War veteran and member of the Hawaii Army National Guard, also released a video today explaining her decision to back Mr Sanders. "We need a commander in chief, who understands the need for a foreign policy which is robust in defending the safety and security of the American people. Who will not waste precious lives and money on interventionist wars of regime change," said Ms Gabbard, a veteran of two deployments to the Middle East. "That's why today I am endorsing Bernie Sanders to be the next president and commander-in-chief of the US," she said. Elected in 2012, Ms Gabbard is the first Hindu member of the United States Congress. Trump's insurgent campaign has riven the Republican Party, with party leaders openly discussing how to thwart the will of the tens of thousands of members who have voted for Trump so far, helping him comfortably win in three of the four states that have so far held nominating contests. (Photo: AP) Washington: Meg Whitman, the head of technology firm Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co, said on Sunday that Donald Trump was "unfit" for the US presidency, and criticized New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, whose failed presidential bid she supported, for endorsing Trump. Trump's insurgent campaign has riven the Republican Party, with party leaders openly discussing how to thwart the will of the tens of thousands of members who have voted for Trump so far, helping him comfortably win in three of the four states that have so far held nominating contests. Party leaders are nervous that Trump, a billionaire real-estate developer from New York City who deviates from some of the central tenets of Republican conservatism, may alienate voters if he is their candidate in the Nov. 8 general election. He has proposed banning Muslims from entering the United States and declined a journalist's invitation on Sunday to condemn the Ku Klux Klan, the violent white supremacist group. Christie, who scrapped his own presidential bid earlier this month, became the most prominent Republican figure to break ranks with party leadership by endorsing Trump on Friday ahead of this week's "Super Tuesday" contests, when voters in 11 states go to the polls. Whitman, who was a co-chairwoman of the national finance committee of Christie's campaign, said in a statement to reporters that Trump would take the country on "a dangerous journey" and that Christie was aware of this. "Chris Christie's endorsement of Donald Trump is an astonishing display of political opportunism. Donald Trump is unfit to be president", said the statement from Whitman, who is chief executive and president of Hewlett Packard Enterprise and chairman of HP Inc. She called on Christie's donors not to follow him to Trump, who has predominantly funded his campaign with personal loans. Representatives of Christie and Trump did not respond to requests for comment. Earlier on Sunday, Trump was asked repeatedly if he would unequivocally condemn the Klan and other support from white supremacists. "I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists," Trump told CNN's Jake Tapper after being asked about his endorsement by David Duke, a former Klan leader. "If you would send me a list of the groups, I will do research on them and certainly I would disavow if I thought there was something wrong." Previously, Trump had seemed less uncertain about his views on Duke. "David Duke endorsed me?" he said in a response to a reporter. "Alright. I disavow. OK?" In a separate interview on Sunday, Trump also defended posting on his Twitter account a quote sometimes attributed to Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini. He told NBC News he did not realise that the quote - "It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep" - was associated Mussolini but said it did not matter because it was a good aphorism all the same. Many party leaders hope US Senator Marco Rubio of Florida will somehow overtake Trump before the party's nominating convention in July, despite Rubio's not having won any states and lagging behind in Trump in opinion polls. In recent days, Rubio has taken to adopting Trump's habit of using adolescent insults to denigrate his rival, suggesting on Friday that Trump urinated in his trousers during last week's televised debate and saying his face looks unappealing. Rubio and US Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, the only Republican to beat Trump in a primary election so far, both criticized Trump's reticence to share his view on the Klan on Sunday. "We cannot be a party that nominates someone who refused to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," Rubio told a crowd of voters in Purcellville, Virginia, MSNBC reported. American student Otto Warmbier, center, arrives at the People's Cultural House, as Warmbier is presented to reporters in Pyongyang, North Korea. (Photo: AP) Pyongyang: North Korea presented a detained American student before the media on Monday in Pyongyang, where he tearfully apologised for attempting to steal a political banner at the behest, he said, of a member of a church back home who wanted it as a "trophy" from a staff-only section of the hotel where he had been staying. North Korea announced in late January it had arrested Otto Warmbier, a 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. It said that after entering the country as a tourist he committed an anti-state crime with "the tacit connivance of the US government and under its manipulation." No details of what kind of charges or punishment Warmbier faces were immediately released. According to Warmbier's statement Monday, he wanted the banner with a political slogan on it as a trophy for the church member, who was the mother of a friend. In previous cases, people who have been detained in North Korea and given a public confession often recant those admissions after their release. He was arrested while visiting the country with Young Pioneer Tours, an agency specialising in travel to the North, which is strongly discouraged by the US State Department. He had been staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, which is located on an island in a river that runs through Pyongyang. It is common for sections of tourist hotels to be reserved for North Korean staff and off-limits to foreigners. Warmbier is a native of Ohio and Ohio Governor John Kasich, while campaigning in New Hampshire as a Republican presidential candidate, called the arrest "inexcusable." Kasich has urged President Barack Obama to "make every effort to secure Mr. Warmbier's immediate release and keep (his) family constantly apprised." Kasich said North Korea should either provide evidence of the alleged anti-state activities or release Warmbier. In his comments, Warmbier said he was offered a used car worth $10,000 by a member of the church. He said the church member told him the slogan would be hung on its wall as a trophy. He also said he was told that if he was detained and not returned, $200,000 would be paid to his mother in a way of charitable donations. Calls to the Friendship United Methodist Church went unanswered Monday. Warmbier named that as the church his acquaintance belonged to and there is church of that name in his hometown, Wyoming, Ohio. He said he was also encouraged in his act by the "Z Society" at the University of Virginia, which he said he was trying to join. The magazine of the university's alumni association describes the Z Society as a "semi-secret ring society" that was founded in 1892 and conducts philanthropy, puts on honorary dinners and grants academic awards. Warmbier said he accepted the offer of money because his family is "suffering from very severe financial difficulties." "I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money," he said, adding that if he ever mentioned the involvement of the church, "no payments would come." North Korea regularly accuses Washington and Seoul of sending spies to overthrow its government to enable the US-backed South Korean government to control the Korean Peninsula. US tourism to North Korea is legal and virtually all Americans who make the journey return home without incident. Even so, the State Department has repeatedly warned against travel to the North. Visitors, especially those from America, who break the country's sometimes murky rules risk detention, arrest and possible jail sentences. Young Pioneer describes itself on its website as providing "budget tours to destinations your mother would rather you stayed away from." The agency, based in China, also has tours to Iran, Cuba, Turkmenistan, Iraq and other former Soviet countries. After Warmbier's detention, it stressed in a news release that he was the first of the 7,000 people it has taken to North Korea over the past eight years to face arrest. "Despite what you may hear, North Korea is probably one of the safest places on Earth to visit," it says on its website. "We have never felt suspicious or threatened at any time. In fact, North Koreans are super friendly and accommodating, if you let them into your world. Even during tense political moments tourism to the DPRK is never affected." In the past, North Korea has held out until senior US officials or statesmen came to personally bail out detainees, all the way up to former President Bill Clinton, whose visit in 2009 secured the freedom of American journalists Euna Lee and Laura Ling. Both had crossed North Korea's border from China illegally. It took a visit in November 2014 by US spy chief James Clapper to bring home Matthew Miller, who had ripped up his visa when entering the country, and Korean-American missionary Kenneth Bae, who had been incarcerated since November 2012. Jeffrey Fowle, another US tourist from Ohio detained for six months at about the same time as Miller, was released just before that and sent home on a US government plane. He left a Bible in a local club hoping a North Korean would find it, which is considered a criminal offense in North Korea. Survivors of abuse by Catholic clergy in Australia arrive in Rome on February 28, 2016 to hear evidence from Cardinal George Pell. (Photo: AFP) Sydney: Vatican finance chief Cardinal George Pell admitted on Monday the Catholic Church "mucked up" in dealing with paedophile priests and vowed he would not "defend the indefensible" before an Australian inquiry. Pell gave evidence from a hotel in Rome via video-link to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in Sydney rather than appear in person as he has a heart condition. The inquiry is currently focused on the Victorian state town of Ballarat, where Pell grew up and worked, and how the church dealt with complaints, many dating back to the 1970s, against the Catholic clergy. Pell, who rose to be the top Catholic official in Australia, said the church historically made grave errors in not properly addressing the issue and was now working to remedy them. "Let me just say this, as an initial clarification, and that is I'm not here to defend the indefensible," he said after swearing on the Bible to tell the truth. "The church has made enormous mistakes and is working to remedy those. The church in many places, certainly in Australia, has mucked things up, has let people down." He acknowledged that in the past the church's general attitude to abuse was that it was "much, much more difficult for the child to be believed" and complaints were often dismissed. "I don't have the statistics on that but too many of them certainly were dismissed and sometimes they were dismissed in absolutely scandalous circumstances," he said, adding that the instinct was to protect the church from shame. "They were very, very, very plausible allegations made by responsible people that were not followed up sufficiently." But he denied the church's structure was to blame for the way it handled paedophile priests, despite counsel assisting the commission Gail Furness saying many inquiries around the world had found those in senior positions did not take proper action. "I think the faults overwhelmingly have been more personal faults, personal failures rather than structures," he said. Catastrophe For The Church Pell has always denied knowing of systemic child abuse occurring in Ballarat, including by Gerald Ridsdale, seen as Australia's worst paedophile priest who preyed on dozens of children over two decades. The pair shared a home but Pell has dismissed claims he helped move him to another parish or that he tried to buy anyone's silence. He told the commission the way Ridsdale was dealt with by church officials was "catastrophic". "I have just re-read the file of Ridsdale. The priest -- ex-priest -- and the way he was dealt with was a catastrophe. A catastrophe for the victims and a catastrophe for the church," he said. "If effective action had been taken earlier, an enormous amount of suffering would've been avoided." Pell also denied being aware of paedophile priests being sent for treatment for their sexual offending by then bishop of Ballarat Ronald Mulkearns while he was based in the diocese. A group of survivors of abuse by Catholic clergy in Australia travelled to Rome to hear Pell's evidence, which is expected to span three days, after a crowdfunding campaign to get them there. David Ridsdale, who was abused by his uncle Gerald Ridsdale, said Pell appeared to have adopted a "more conciliatory tone". "We would have to acknowledge that there were some statements said that were certainly more constructive than previously," he told reporters in Rome. "But saying that, there was a very careful selection of words, a careful manner in which it was discussed." Fellow abuse survivor Tim Lane told national radio from Ballarat that he was expecting more. "It's all about, still, sort of passing the buck a little bit," he said. Australia ordered the Royal Commission in 2012 after a decade of growing pressure to investigate allegations of paedophilia across the country. It has heard claims of child abuse involving churches, orphanages, community, sports and youth groups and schools. Merkel, once highly popular, has seen her ratings plummet because of her handling of the migrants issue. (Photo: AFP) Frankfurt: German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday defended her open-door policy for migrants, rejecting any limit on the number of refugees allowed into her country despite divisions within her government. Merkel said there was no 'Plan B' for her aim of reducing the flow of migrants through cooperation with Turkey, efforts she said could unravel were Germany to cap the number of refugees it accepts. "Sometimes, I also despair. Some things go too slow. There are many conflicting interests in Europe," Merkel told state broadcaster ARD. "But it is my damn duty to do everything I can so that Europe finds a collective way." Merkel spelled out her motivation to keep Germany's borders open without limits on refugees, a goal many in her own country and coalition government openly disagree with. "There is so much violence and hardship on our doorstep," she said. "What's right for Germany in the long term? There, I think it is to keep Europe together and to show humanity." Merkel, once highly popular, has seen her ratings plummet because of her handling of the migrants issue. The majority of those surveyed by public broadcaster ARD earlier in February were dissatisfied with her. Germany attracted 1.1 million asylum seekers last year, leading to calls from across the political spectrum for a change in its handling of refugees coming to Europe to escape war and poverty in Syria, Afghanistan and elsewhere. Merkel now faces what she said on Sunday was the biggest challenge of her decade in office. She is struggling to secure a Europe-wide plan for dealing with the migrants. She is pinning her hopes on talks between European Union leaders and Turkey on March 7 and a migration summit on March 18 and 19. After many failed attempts, the two meetings look like the final chance to agree on a joint response before warmer weather encourages more arrivals across the Mediterranean. But Merkel said she would fight on for a European solution even were the March 7 meeting to fall short. The migrants question has not only divided Europe. There is also strong dissent within Germany and the governing coalition. Politicians from the state of Bavaria's Christian Social Union, the sister party to Merkel's CDU, have been critical of her stance. They want a limit on the number of migrants, similar to that imposed in Austria. So too does the majority of Germans in the ARD survey. Austria, the last stop on the way to Germany for hundreds of thousands of migrants, recently imposed restrictions on its borders, setting off a domino effect in Europe in limiting the flow of people, and leaving hundreds stranded in Greece. Merkel dismissed such a "rigid limit", saying: "There is no point in believing that I can solve the problem through the unilateral closure of borders." German Divide Merkel made her comments as the rift widened in her governing coalition over how to cope with an influx of refugees. Leading German Social Democrats, part of the country's governing coalition, earlier accused Merkel's conservative finance minister of being too thrifty in dealing with the migrant crisis. The criticism came after Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble labelled Social Democrat proposals for wider social spending on housing and public services to complement the integration of migrants as "pitiful". Stephan Weil, the Social Democrat premier of the state of Lower Saxony, hit back on Sunday, calling for a bigger social services budget as the country accommodates over a million migrants. Merkel said she did not support such an idea. "The finance minister obviously just doesn't get it," Weil told the Sueddeutsche Zeitung newspaper. Pointing to the high cost of integrating migrants, Weil said: "We cannot create the impression that this is happening at the expense of the weaker members of our society." Heiko Maas, justice minister and a Social Democrat, was similarly critical and made a renewed call for more spending. "What's more important? The people in the country or balancing the budget?" Schaeuble, a long-standing proponent of prudence, wants to prevent Germany from spending more than it earns and is unlikely to be easily moved. If spending were to spiral, it could further weaken Merkel's fading support. She has warned about the consequences for Europe of border closure. But a poor showing by the Christian Democrats in state elections in March would pressure her to reverse course. "The international financial crisis was a big challenge. We managed that well. The euro crisis was a huge challenge," said Merkel. "This crisis is different because people are coming to us, people with a different cultural background ... where people ask what is this doing to our country." She said, however, that she saw nothing that would prompt her to change course. Commenting on her plan, Merkel, a trained scientist, said: "It's all well thought through. It's logical." The minor victim, Nastya, was looked after by her babysitter Bobokulova. (Photo: YouTube Video Grab) Moscow: A shocking video has emerged online in which a burqa-clad woman is seen walking on the streets in Moscow on Monday with a severely butchered head of a child in hand, while shouting 'Allahu Akbar', according to a report in the Daily Mail. The 39-year-old Gyulchehra Bobokulova, a national of Uzbekistan, walked past the Oktyabrskoye Pole station when she was stopped by the cops and taken into custody. In the video, while the woman is walking on the street with the child's head in her hand, she can be heard shouting Allahu Akbar, meaning God is great. On-lookers are shocked to see the decapitated head of the child as the woman passes by the police station before being held. Police detained Bobokulova on Monday when she threatened to blow herself up with the child's injured head. Earlier in the day, police had found a headless body of a minor girl in a flat which was set on fire. Bobokulova used to babysit the minor victim who has been identified as Nastya. Police officials suspect that Bobokulova might have murdered the child, beheaded her and then set the house on fire. Investigators said that Bobokulova might have waited for the victim's family members to leave the house before she could commit the crime. The parents of the victim have told police that Bobokulova was working for them since the past 18 months. Investigators of the case said that a forensic psychiatric evaluation of the criminal will be carried out to understand her unusual behavior. Pavel Astakhov, Russias children rights commissioner tweeted, "Monstrous and inexplicable." He urged people to verify the background of nannies before hiring them for their children. The victims mother was taken away in an unconscious state, said reports. Watch the video here: The bill on civil unions for same-sex and heterosexual couples split parliament down religious lines and Prime Minister Matteo Renzi stripped out the most controversial clause, which would have allowed unmarried couples some adoption rights. (Photo: Pixabay) Rome: Italy's government is working on a new law on adopting children, to include gay couples, after cutting a controversial adoption provision from a bill on civil unions last week, a prominent minister said on Sunday. The bill on civil unions for same-sex and heterosexual couples split parliament down religious lines and Prime Minister Matteo Renzi stripped out the most controversial clause, which would have allowed unmarried couples some adoption rights. Reform Minister Maria Elena Boschi, a close Renzi ally, told La Repubblica newspaper new legislation would apply to gay couples and single people. "We are preparing a very complex law which does not only regard adoptions for gay couples," she was quoted as saying. Boschi added, "We need to get to grips with the entire adoption system, update it, review it, simplify it." The "stepchild adoption" clause, which would have allowed one partner to adopt the other's child, split Renzi's ruling coalition, partly because of fears it would encourage surrogacy parenting, which is illegal in Italy. Council of Europe Commissioner for Human Rights Nils Muiznieks welcomed the Senate's approval of the bill on Twitter last week, adding, "I trust next step will be law allowing stepchild adoption." But continued opposition to the idea from politicians close to the Catholic Church was underlined on Sunday by Interior Minister Angelino Alfano, whose small New Centre Right party (NCD) governs in the coalition. Asked in an interview with Il Messaggero newspaper what he thought of Boschi's plan to review adoption legislation, Alfano said NCD had already dealt with "these subjects" by voting for the bill and would go no further. "We would never have voted for the (civil unions) if we had been told stripping out the 'stepchild' was temporary, pending a new law. We will absolutely not budge on this," he said. Italy is the only major Western country that does not yet recognise civil unions, and gay rights groups were bitterly disappointed that the eventual bill did not consider children. A poll found on Saturday that a majority of Italians surveyed opposed the stepchild adoption provision. Syrian refugees who fled their home in Syria wait inside St. Joseph Church to be taken to Beirut's Hariri Airport, in Beirut, Lebanon. (Photo: AP) Damascus: The United Nations prepared to deliver aid to thousands of besieged civilians in Syria on Monday as a fragile ceasefire entered its third day largely intact despite accusations of violations. UN humanitarian coordinator Yacoub El Hillo said the world body hoped to take advantage of the first major truce in five years of conflict to distribute supplies to an extra 154,000 people living in besieged areas over the next five days. A successful truce would also create a more favourable backdrop for peace talks that collapsed in acrimony in early February as a Russia-backed regime offensive in northern Syria caused tens of thousands to flee. UN envoy Staffan de Mistura aims to relaunch the talks on March 7 if the ceasefire lasts and more aid is delivered. The main opposition grouping Sunday described the ceasefire as "positive" but lodged a formal complaint with the United Nations and foreign governments about breaches. "We have violations here and there, but in general it is a lot better than before and people are comfortable," said Salem al-Meslet, spokesman for the Saudi-backed High Negotiations Committee. Meslet said the opposition would like to see the truce "last forever" and that it was the "responsibility of the United States to stop any violations". An HNC letter to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon accused the Syrian regime and its allies of committing "24 violations with artillery shelling and five ground operations... in 26 areas held by the moderate opposition". It said the breaches had killed 29 people and wounded dozens. The HNC has said it did not receive any maps of areas included in the ceasefire or documents explaining the monitoring mechanism. Syria's Al-Watan newspaper, which is close to the government, said Sunday that those maps were still being "kept secret". The ceasefire does not apply to territory held by the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda affiliate Al-Nusra Front. The jihadists of IS last week cut the government's sole supply route to territory it holds in and around second city Aleppo. After several days of deadly clashes, the army succeeded in reopening it on Monday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. At least 26 pro-government fighters and 14 IS jihadists were killed in the fighting around the town of Khanasser, the Britain-based monitoring group said on Sunday. 'We went out and played' Russia, which has waged a five-month bombing campaign to support Assad, accused "moderate" rebels and jihadists of nine ceasefire violations. But "on the whole, the ceasefire regime in Syria is being implemented," Lieutenant General Sergei Kuralenko, head of Moscow's coordination centre in Syria, was quoted as saying by Russian news agencies. In Damascus, student Mehdi al-Ani spent Sunday at his university's cafe with friends. "Yesterday, we only heard two or three shells but I pretended like I didn't hear anything. The ceasefire will continue, God willing," he said. In Aleppo, the Observatory reported some rebel rocket fire on government-held neighbourhoods early on Monday but no casualties. Children strolled to schools in the city without hugging walls for fear of air strikes or rocket fire, an AFP correspondent reported. "Our teachers used to forbid us from going out to the school yard because of the air strikes but today we went out and played," said Ranim, a 10-year-old pupil at a primary school in the rebel-held neighbourhood of Bustan al-Kasr. 'Inevitable' setbacks The Observatory reported nine Russian air strikes on a town in the central province of Hama early on Monday but had no immediate word on any casualties. Washington urged patience from all sides to give the truce a chance to firm up. "Setbacks are inevitable," a senior US administration official said. "Even under the best of circumstances, we don't expect the violence to end immediately. In fact, we are certain that there will continue to be fighting, in part because of organisations like ISIL (Islamic State) and Al-Nusra." There has been no let-up in the US-led air campaign against IS since the truce went into effect. The coalition said that on Sunday it carried out 12 strikes against the jihadists in Syria, four of them around the town of Tal Abyad on the Turkish border where IS has been attempting to regain territory from US-backed Kurdish forces. A court in the eastern province of Zhejiang sentenced Bao Guohua for embezzlement, disturbing public order, illegal business operations and concealing information about business accounts, local media have reported. (Representational Image) Shanghai: A Chinese court has sentenced a Christian pastor to 14 years in jail for embezzlement and other charges, a court official confirmed on Monday, after the preacher opposed the forced removal of crosses from churches. A court in the eastern province of Zhejiang sentenced Bao Guohua for embezzlement, disturbing public order, illegal business operations and concealing information about business accounts, local media have reported. His wife Xing Wenxiang was jailed for 12 years, they said. The two were also fined and their assets seized for appropriating cash and a house which belonged to the church, reports added. An official at a court in Jinhua city, where the sentencing took place on Thursday, confirmed the sentences to AFP but declined further comment. The court jailed 10 other people in connection with the case, the Zhejiang Daily newspaper and local television said, but did not give the lengths of their sentences. Bao and Xing were detained in July last year after they spoke out against forced cross removals in Zhejiang. Earlier, the province announced rules requiring crosses for Catholic and Protestant churches to be attached to the front of the building, rather than on the roof, and be no more than a tenth of the building's height. China's officially atheist Communist authorities are wary of any organised movements outside their control, including religious ones, and analysts say controls over such groups have tightened under President Xi Jinping. In 2014, Wenzhou city in Zhejiang demolished the large Sanjiang Church, following government declarations it was an illegal structure. The state-linked China Christian Council estimates the country has around 20 million Christians excluding Catholics in official churches supervised by the authorities. But the true number of worshippers could be higher, at least 40 million to 60 million, according to some estimates, as some pray at "underground" or "house" churches which seek to exist outside government control. US-based religious rights group China Aid said authorities forced Bao and Xing to dismiss their lawyers before the trial. Knife attacks against schoolchildren have become fewer in recent years after Chinese schools were hit by a rash of stabbings roughly five years ago. (Representational Photo: Pixabay) Beijing: Police in the southern Chinese city of Haikou say a knife-wielding man has slashed 10 children outside a primary school before killing himself. Media reports say that none of the children suffered life-threatening injuries, but that two were seriously hurt in Monday's attack. An official at Haikou's Longhu police station declined to give further details and said the case was under investigation. Knife attacks against schoolchildren have become fewer in recent years after Chinese schools were hit by a rash of stabbings roughly five years ago. The attacks, mostly carried out by perpetrators with mental health issues, sparked outrage among Chinese parents who demanded enhanced security at schools. Islamabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Islamabad in November this year; the Pakistani government announced here Monday. Pak Prime Ministers Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi said that dates for Prime Minister Modis visit were being finalised. Dates for the upcoming SAARC Summit in Islamabad are being worked out in consultation with member states, Tariq Fatemi said. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to attend the summit, he added. The summit will probably be held in November. Pakistan has proposed to host the 19th SAARC Summit in Islamabad in November 2016. Further, Fatemi said a five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) formed to probe the January 2 terror attack on Indias Pathankot airbase will complete its work this week. Seven Indian soldiers were killed when militants stormed the airbase, with India claiming involvement of Masood Azhar-led militant group Jaish-e-Mohammed. The Punjab government had last week formed the JIT to investigate the Pathankot airbase attack case, which was registered a week earlier in Gujranwala. The newly-formed team is being headed by the same person who heads the six-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) formed earlier by Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The team is working on the basis of a First Information Report (FIR) registered in Gujranwala on February 18 under the Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA) 1997. The FIR was lodged on the recommendations of the SIT formed by the premier in the week of January after India had provided evidence suggesting the attack was planned and handled from Pakistan. The team had, however, termed the proof inadequate to book the suspects, including Jaish-e-Mohammad chief Masood Azhar, named by India. Modi had last visited Pakistan in December to surprise his counterpart, Nawaz Sharif, on his birthday. The ties between the two nations received a boost due to the short trip but the Pathankot attack again spoiled the peace efforts. Pathankot attack led to the postponement of a scheduled meeting between Foreign Secretaries of Pakistan and India in January in Islamabad. (Photo: PTI) Islamabad: The Pakistani team investigating the Pathankot terror attack will complete its probe this week, a top official said, days after three suspects in the high-profile case were remanded to police custody. "The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) will complete probe into Pathankot incident this week," Prime Minister's Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi was quoted as saying by Radio Pakistan. Pakistan last week set up a five-member JIT to probe the terror attack on the Pathankot airbase, a week after it lodged an FIR over the assault without naming Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar who India has accused of having masterminded the strike. Earlier, a six-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) was set up by the federal government for the initial probe into the January 2 attack based on the leads given by India. Three men arrested for their alleged role in the attack were sent to a six-day police remand by an anti-terrorism court in Gujranwala city of Punjab on Saturday. The FIR by the Counter-Terrorism Department of Punjab police has been lodged on the basis of information provided by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval that four attackers crossed from Pakistan into India and attacked the airbase. The attack led to the postponement of a scheduled meeting between Foreign Secretaries of Pakistan and India in January in Islamabad. Since then, no date has been fixed for the talks. Meanwhile, Fatemi also said the dates for the upcoming SAARC Summit in Islamabad are being worked out in consultation with member states. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to attend the summit. Islamabad: Pakistan Monday hanged the assassin of a governor who sought reform of the country's blasphemy law, officials and supporters told AFP, saying Mumtaz Qadri -- feted as a hero by Islamist supporters -- had been executed at a prison in Rawalpindi. "I can confirm that Qadri was hanged in Adialia jail early Monday morning," senior local police official Sajjid Gondal told AFP. A prison official confirmed the execution of Qadri, a former police bodyguard who killed liberal Punjab governor Salman Taseer in 2011. Dozens of Rangers and police in riot gear as well as ambulances were stationed outside Qadri's home in the city early Monday, an AFP reporter there said, blocking the street and refusing to allow people to enter. Cries could be heard from inside the house as around 20 people gathered, apparently family members, and mosques could be heard broadcasting news of the execution. "We have beefed up security in Rawalpindi to maintain law and order and to deal with any untoward situation," Gondal said. He said the hanging took place after a final meeting between Qadri and his family late Sunday, and that the body had been sent to his relatives. Qadri shot Taseer 28 times in broad daylight in an upscale market in the capital Islamabad. He later admitted the killing, saying he objected to the politician's calls to reform Pakistan's controversial blasphemy laws. Rights groups say these are frequently used to pursue vendettas, particularly against religious minorities. Taseer had also been vocal in his support of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who has been on death row since 2010 after being found guilty of insulting the Prophet Mohammed. Following Qadris execution, authorities put police and Rangers on high alert, stepped up security and braced for protests. (Photo: AP) Islamabad: Mumtaz Qadri, a former Pakistani Elite Force commando convicted for killing liberal Punjab governor Salman Taseer, was executed at the Adiala Jail Monday triggering a protest spree by the supporters. Security was stepped up at flashpoints across the country including the garrison city of Rawalpindi, where hundreds of supporters began gathering at Qadri's family home. Qadri killed Mr Taseer in Islamabads Kohsar Market on January 4, 2011 for speaking out against misuse of blasphemy laws. An Anti-Terrorism Court had convicted and condemned Qadri to death, a ruling also upheld by the Islamabad High Court and Supreme Court. A review petition of Qadri was also turned down by the top court on December 14 last year, leaving him with the last option of filing a clemency appeal to the President. It was also rejected. Qadris body was sent to his native town Sadiqabad near Rawalpindi where his funeral prayers will be offered on Tuesday. Rangers and police in riot gear as well as ambulances and dozens of police vehicles were stationed in Sadiqabad. Following Qadris execution, authorities put police and Rangers on high alert, stepped up security and braced for protests. The protest demonstrations were reported in different cities, including Rawalpindi and Islamabad. Reports said protestors gathered on main road, Faizabad Interchange, outside Rawalpindi, burning tyres on the thoroughfare and chanted slogans against the government. In the wake of any untoward situation, the authorities closed schools in Rawalpindi. Qadris brother Abid Qadri said the family had been called to the prison Sunday evening by officials who said he was unwell. But when they arrived, he greeted them with the news that authorities had deceived them, and that his execution was imminent. We started crying, but he hugged us and chanted God is great, Abid Qadri said. The head of the Islamabad Bar Council called for a day-long strike of lawyers in protest against the hanging. Qadris attorney said his client told him he had no regrets for killing the governor. I have met him twice in jail. He said that even if Allah gave him 50 million lives, he would still sacrifice all of them, lawyer Ghulam Mustafa Chaudhry said. Protesters briefly blocked the main road between Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Monday after news of the hanging broke. Police later dispersed them and closed off the road to prevent more demonstrations. Mr Chaudhry predicted larger demonstrations coinciding with Qadris funeral, which his legal group said would be held on Tuesday. From what we are seeing, this protest movement is only going to increase, he said. In Lahore, supporters and workers of religious parties blocked Sagyan Bridge, Ravi Bridge and Old Ravi Bridge to protest the execution. Ravi Bridge is an entrance point to Lahore for traffic coming from Sheikhupura, Faisalabad, Gujranwala, Gujrat and other cities on the GT Road. Further, Shahdra Mor and Thokar Naiz Baig entry and exit points were also blocked for all kinds of traffic. The citizens were forced to travel on foot as scores of protesters blocked traffic at the entry and exit points of the provincial capital. Meanwhile, dozens of trucks and trailers blocked the GT Road near Shahdara and protesters carrying sticks did not allow anybody to move. In Peshawar, several political and religious parties announced protests and rallies against Qadris execution. Workers of the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (Fazl) protested outside the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa assembly. Meanwhile, Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) Amir Sirajul Haq protested across the country. Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in Pakistan, an Islamic republic of some 200 million, and Qadri has been hailed as a hero by many conservatives eager to drown out any calls to soften the legislation. Qadris lawyers drew on Islamic texts to argue that he was justified in killing Taseer, saying that by criticising the law the politician was himself guilty of blasphemy, an argument rejected by the lead judge. Qadri lost a petition for the Supreme Court to review his sentence in December last year. The decision came after the court warned in October that in Islam a false accusation can be as serious as the blasphemy itself, and that calls for blasphemy law reform ought not to be mistaken as a call for doing away with that law. The courts decision to uphold the sentence sparked rallies in which Islamist groups said that if Qadri were executed those responsible should also be put to death. What I do care about is a NON-Corrupt Court. A Court that bases their decisions within the Constitution and not some flavor of the day, personal opinion. Many of us invited you to read the majority opinion of the Court concerning Gay marriage. Was it base within Constitutional law? Of course it wasn't. It was based on personal opinion and corrupted legal phrases taken out of context and used to justify their opinion. If they can get away with that what stops them from attacking the Bill of Rights? Lets look at the Alien & Sedition Act. Was it Constitutional? Did the states have the right not to enforce it? Democracy, being a human construct, needs to be thought of as directionality rather than an object. As such, to understand it requires not so much a description of existing structures and/or other related phenomena but a declaration of intentionality. This blog aims at creating labeled lists of published infringements of such intentionality, of points in time where democracy strays from its intended directionality. In addition to outright infringements, this blog also collects important contemporary information and/or discussions that impact our socio-political landscape. All the posts here were published in the electronic media main-stream as well as fringe, and maintain links to the original texts. Ye Olde Facebook Bucket List is going around again, the one where you're given a series of experiences and asked to put an X next to the ones you can check off. It's an odd title for such a list, given that it's totally impersonal and made up of more or less random experiences (served on a jury, fell out of love, been in a car accident). I'm hard pressed to imagine somebody, putting together a list of all the things he or she wants to accomplish before shuffling off this mortal coil, saying, "You know, life just won't be complete until I laugh so hard some beverage comes out my nose." Back in 2011, I jotted down a bucket list for myself. Looking back on it, I'm happy to see I've crossed a couple of things off: I have now been to Washington, D.C. (and going back this summer, with Little Princess' eighth-grade class, yay!) and I've seen a play on Broadway. But I have seriously got to do something about the whole parasailing on a tropical vacation thing. For your Wayback Sunday Mini Blog Post, here is the bucket list I wrote about in October 2011: A guy I know said to me the other day that he'd crossed one of the items off his bucket list: eating sushi off a naked woman. Have to admit, that one made me blink a couple of times. I'm guessing he meant it was an interesting and story-worthy experience, not so much that he actually really had it on a mental list somewhere of things that, on his deathbed, he would be consumed with regret for never fulfilling. This happened at a large group gathering where lots of other amazing things occurred. Everybody involved was a consenting adult, so, OK, whatever blows your skirt up (so to speak). But I do wonder a little bit about the woman involved. Is that truly your highest, best use of yourself, to be a seafood platter? In other words, did it make her bucket list? I hope so. It wouldn't make mine. All kinds of "bucket lists" are going around online at the moment. Most of them ask people to mark off the things they've done, such as visiting the Grand Canyon or seeing a sunrise or whatever. Earlier this year, I wrote a post about an all-American bucket list in Parade magazine. Jack Nicholson and Morgan Freeman even made a movie about them. But after this conversation with my friend, I started thinking about what really would be on the list. Presumably, we all want to leave this world feeling like we've made a difference, our existence mattered to people, we did a good job raising our kids if we had them, yadda yadda yadda. So pretend I said all that. The real fun of a bucket list, though, is to think of all the things you might do that would really make you feel like, in the immortal words of Agnes Gooch, you lived. Singing a duet with Paul McCartney, for instance. That'd be right up there. And going on a road trip with J.K. Rowling. And visiting the International Space Station. It could happen! But all right, all you skeptical little killjoys, it probably won't. There! I said it. Happy to have done the Riverdance all over my dreams? Fine. For the purposes of this post, we'll stick to the realistic stuff. -- I love traveling. I'd put a lot of that on my list. In this country, I'd like to see Niagara Falls, Mt. Rushmore, Carlsbad Caverns, New Orleans and Denali National Park. I'd like to check out Tom Sawyer's cave in Missouri and go to a Broadway play in New York. And I've never seen Washington, D.C. -- Elsewhere, I'd love to visit Australia, New Zealand, Egypt, Israel, Greece and the Swiss Alps. I'd like to visit Anne Frank's house in Amsterdam and Anne of Green Gables' home of Prince Edward Island. I've seen a very little of England, Scotland, Ireland and Italy, but I'd love to see more. Africa, Asia, India and South America don't have the same draw for me, but I wouldn't turn down a trip there. -- As for experiences, I love the feeling of flight. I've been up in a hot air balloon, a paraglider and an ultralight, and for a time I held a very low-level hang gliding license. I'm not interested in skydiving, but I would like to try a parasail, preferably somewhere obscenely tropical. -- Along those lines, I think a big zip line would be fun. From a treehouse. That I own, or can at least rent temporarily. -- I love dolphins. Other people get to swim with them. I say it's my turn. I'm the 99 percent here, people. That's it. I'm going to Occupy Marine World. That brings me back to sushi. A sensual experience, sushi, particularly, I'm sure, if you're eating it off a human plate. Personally, though, I think I'd rather meet the sushi in real life, preferably while doing some snorkeling near the Great Barrier Reef. Ah, well. That's why it's MY bucket list and not yours. As the Oregon Legislature heads into the final week of its short session, it is interesting to see what bills are beginning to fall by the wayside. Of course, its not at all unusual for bills to die in the Legislature; in fact, you can make a credible argument that the most important function of any legislative assembly is to kill bills. But whats interesting is the reason why many of these bills are fading as we approach the final stretch and its a reason one wishes would have been trotted out a few weeks ago on other bills. For example: House Bill 4026, which was written in partial response to a ballot measure planned for November that would end Oregons Prohibition-era monopoly on the liquor industry. The initiative does not outline a way in which the state can make money off liquor sales, which currently are allowed only in state-run stores. The bill aimed to create an alternative funding source for the state through a sales tax on wholesalers. But legislators have decided that the issue is too complex to be handled in a short session. The same fate might await a bill that would allow police agencies to withhold the identity of police officers involved in deadly force incidents for up to 90 days, if a judge finds that the officers face a credible threat to their safety. (The bill aims to protect the unidentified officer who shot and killed Malheur National Wildlife Refuge occupier Robert LaVoy Finicum.) The bill passed the House easily, but now has stalled in the Senate as legislators come to realize that the issues involved are more complicated than they first appeared. A similar fate has befallen what appears to be the sessions primary bill involving genetically modified organisms, a bill that would have required genetically engineered fish to be labeled in Oregon. The Senate Health Care Committee failed to act on the bill by the Legislatures Feb. 23 deadline; Sen. Laurie Monnes Anderson said there wasnt enough time to discuss such a complex issue during this years short session. Of course, the argument that these five-week legislative sessions simply are too short to consider complicated issues is valid. Thats part of the reason why these sessions were initially designed to handle housekeeping items budget alterations such as the measure to reimburse Harney County for some of the expenses incurred in the standoff, or loose ends from legislation that passed in the previous session. But it seems to be an argument that cuts both ways. The complicated three-tiered system that legislators came up to increase the states minimum wage, for example, could have benefited from additional analysis, but that didnt stop the Legislature from passing it. (The argument that the measure needed to be dealt with in the short session to prevent a ballot measure also seems to cut both ways: Ballot measures are pending on privatization of liquor and a potentially disastrous bit of business to dramatically increase Oregons corporate taxes, but youve seen what happened to the liquor bill and the tax issue never got any traction in this session because you guessed it its too complicated.) The sessions remaining big policy bill, the so-called Coal to Clean measure to phase out coal-fired energy provided by Oregons two major utilities and to double the states existing renewable energy standards, might survive the sessions final week. But it wouldnt be a bad idea for legislators to dump the bill in the Too Complicated bin and to head home at the earliest opportunity. (mm) Where is the FBI when it comes to a member of the Muslim Brotherhood inhabiting the White House? Barack Hussein Obama: In my opinion, the man is a criminal, guilty of treason. Where is the FBI when it comes to another criminal, the former secretary of state and her criminal husband. Too many charges to even list! Where is the FBI when it comes to the criminal acts of the IRS, which is no doubt still performing more criminal acts? Where is the FBI when it comes to protecting the people of San Bernardino? Millions and billions of dollars spent on them for protection. Where was the FBI when it came to 9/11? Billions of dollars spent on them for protection. What protection? Oh yeah, thats right! They were over in Burns, in the middle of the desert with their tanks, black helicopters and federal army ambushing and murdering a plain ole American cowboy who was protesting the criminal behavior of the government! This government is just like Iran or Russia. They take political prisoners, make up as many phony charges as they think they can get away with, jail them, and steal everything they have. Government has become totally corrupt from top to bottom! Almost all of these phony bureaucracies need to be removed. They exist only because politicians have used fear to create a bigger more dangerous government for the purpose of taking away our freedom. Some foreign countries threaten us but our biggest and most immediate threat to our freedom is internal, and its our own government! Equal justice? Yeah, you bet! Tell that to the Hammonds, the Bundys and LaVoy Finicum! Ted Gay Lebanon (Feb. 24) The official blog of the site Der Sturmer http://der-stuermer.org Freedom is never voluntarily given by the oppressor; it must be demanded by the oppressed. Morality cannot be legislated, but behavior can be regulated. Judicial decrees may not change the heart, but they can restrain the heartless. A right delayed is a right denied.Like an unchecked cancer, hate corrodes the personality and eats away its vital unity. Hate destroys a man's sense of values and his objectivity. It causes him to describe the beautiful as ugly and the ugly as beautiful, and to confuse the true with the false and the false with the true. Martin Luther King Jr. No one is born hating another person People must learn to hate and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite. Nelson Mandela We can disagree and still love each other, unless your disagreement is rooted in my oppression and denial of my humanity and right to exist James Baldwin There is a fine line between free speech and hate speech. Free speech encourages debate whereas hate speech incites violence. Newton Lee The world will not be destroyed by those who do evil, but by those who watch them without doing anything. Albert Einstein You've got to be taughtTo hateAnd fearYou've got to be taughtFrom yearTo yearIts got toBe drummed in your dear little earYou've got toBe carefullyTaughtYou've got to be taughtTo beAfraidOf peopleWho's eyes are oddly madeAnd people who's skin is a different shade South Pacific Songwriters: Oscar Hammerstein II / Richard Rogers ABC/ Ida Mae Astute(NEW YORK) -- Republican Presidential candidate Sen. Ted Cruz questioned Sunday whether Donald Trumps business ties to a twice-convicted felon with prior mafia associations, described late last year in an ABC News investigation, could eventually undermine Trumps chances in a general election contest. The important point is, George, in the general election, Hillary Clinton is going to shine a light on all of this, said Cruz, speaking on This Week with George Stephanopoulos. And Republican primary voters deserve to know. Cruz raised the questions about Trumps real estate dealings with Felix Sater, a Russian emigre who appeared in photos with Trump when Sater was an executive of a real estate company in business with the Trump Organization and later carried a Trump Organization business card with the title Senior Advisor to Donald Trump. Cruz questioned whether Trumps tax returns would reveal anything more about the relationship. He's clearly hiding something, Cruz said. Trump said he has been unable to release his tax returns because he is being audited. He told CNN on Sunday, until the audit is completed, obviously, I'm not giving my papers. You can't tell anything from tax returns, because you take deductions, massive deductions and lots of other things, he said. And you can't tell very much from a tax return. You really can't tell anything as to that. Cruz referenced a Dec. 10 ABC News report that described Trumps connection to Sater, which dates to the early 2000's when the Trump Organization worked on several occasions with a small development firm based in Trump Tower called the Bayrock Group, where Sater was an executive until 2007. For years, Trump has sought to minimize his past business ties with Sater. When Trump was asked under oath about his dealings with the twice-convicted Russian emigre who served prison time and had documented mafia connections, he was at a loss. If he were sitting in the room right now, I really wouldn't know what he looked like, Trump testified in a video deposition for a civil lawsuit two years ago. As Trump explained it during the deposition, the relationship began when Bayrock was a tenant in his Trump Tower office building, when somebody from Bayrock, I'm not exactly sure, came to see -- either myself or one of my children with a proposal for a development deal. It could have been Felix Sater, it could have been -- I really don't know who it might have been, Trump said, but somebody from Bayrock." Obtained by ABC News Trump and Sater can be seen together in photographs attending a Denver business conference in 2005, and the two men posed on stage together at the 2007 launch party for the Trump SoHo Hotel and Condominium project. And in 2010, according to Trumps lawyer, Sater was provided business cards by the Trump Organization identifying him as a senior advisor" to Trump. Sater has declined repeated requests for an interview, citing the advice of his attorney. But he has not been shy about posting items online touting his ties to Trump. On his website, he called the Trump SoHo his most prized project. For years he identified himself on his online resume at the LinkedIn website as having been a "senior advisor" to Trump in 2010-2011. In November, after ABC News asked Trumps attorney about it, that portion of Saters online resume was deleted. The senior advisor title stands in sharp contrast to how Trump and his aides have repeatedly described the nature of their connection with Sater, including in response to questions from ABC News. Alan Garten, Trumps General Counsel, initially told ABC News that Trump had no real direct relationship with Felix Sater and that Sater was not an advisor to Donald Trump in my mind, and not in anyone at the Trump Organization's mind. A few days later, Garten confirmed the authenticity of Saters Trump business card with the senior advisor title which included a Trump Organization email address and phone number. But the lawyer said the title was not reflective of Saters actual role. It was common practice in the real estate industry, he said, to provide business cards and bestow titles in order for brokers to be able to make initial introductions. Garten said Trump had minimal interaction with Sater on the various joint ventures with Bayrock, and so had no reason to probe deeply into his background. To be clear, Garten told ABC News, Mr. Sater's involvement in the projects, the projects that went forward, SoHo and Fort Lauderdale, may have existed in the beginning, but long term there was very little involvement. Garten said Sater was never employed by or on the payroll of the Trump organization and that no deals ever came from those activities in 2010. But Garten declined to respond to emails and phone messages with further questions, including whether Sater was provided office space or compensated by the Trump organization in any other way. Images of Saters business card were wiped from the internet shortly after ABC News asked Garten about it. Copyright 2016, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. This blog belongs to a woman with lots to say on everything under the sun. http://donpolson.blogspot.com/ Bringing you the very best information, analysis and opinion from around the web. NOTE: For videos that don't start--go to article link to view. NY Times front page story eviscerating Meet the Press and Yesterday, on top of thefront page story eviscerating Hillary's spectacularly failed neocon foreign policy agenda in Libya , Hawaii Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard went onand publicly resigned as a vice Chair of the DNC so that she could work for Bernie. (Another congresswoman, who has not endorsed either presidential candidate yet, told me Tulsi-- who isn't nearly as progressive as Bernie (she's graded an "F" by ProgressivePunch)-- made the move because "shes just fed up with the Hillary-Debbie Wasserman Schultz Axis of Evil at the DNC." Wow! She certainly stepped all over the Clinton Machine's talking point for the day-- that Hillary had finished off Bernie in South Carolina, which is what they had all their media and social media lackies chanting starting well before sunrise. Tulsi, a kind of Fox News Democrat, was the fourth Member of Congress to endorse Bernie. This morning a fifth Member of Congress joined Team Bernie, this one a man who shares a nearly identical progressive vision of governance and public service with Bernie, Orlando Congressman Alan Grayson. Policy wise, Grayson has been allied with Bernie since long before being elected to Congress. Both are all about fearlessly taking on the special interests to make life better for ordinary working families and for peace. Grayson has also been an admirer of Clinton's. When the GOP decided to establish their transparently political Benghazi Committee, there was no one in Congress who fought it harder than Grayson, even going so far as to ask Pelosi to appoint him-- and only him-- as the sole Democrat on the committee so he could make the hyper-partisan Republican inquisitors pay dearly for their shenanigans. (Ironically, his Establishment-backed Senate opponent now, Patrick Murphy, was one of only 7 right-wing Democrats to conspire with the GOP in getting the committee going in their anti-Hillary witch hunt.) This morning Grayson explained to his supporters that he feels the Bern. I hereby endorse Bernie Sanders to be our Democratic nominee for President of the United States. I will vote for him as a Super-delegate at the Democratic National Convention. And I enthusiastically join, shoulder to shoulder, his political revolution. Perhaps inspired by the Bernie Sanders message of "Not me. Us," for the past several days, I have appealed to Democrats across the nation to tell me for whom I should vote, as a Super-delegate at the Democratic National Convention. The response has been absolutely overwhelming. Almost 400,000 Democrats voted at GraysonPrimary.com. More than the number who voted in the South Carolina primary. More than the number who voted in the New Hampshire primary and the Nevada caucus combined. The results: Sanders 86%, Clinton 14%. More than just a landslide. An earthquake. ...Bernie Sanders and I share a goal of building a grassroots movement of people who want to take back our country from the billionaires and the multinational corporations. We want to make elections into about something different: Not the lesser of two evils, but the greater good. When you make a contribution to our campaign, our revolution, you are demonstrating that our democracy is no longer for sale to the highest bidder. But Bernie and I cannot accomplish this on our own. We need your help. We need to declare our Declaration of Independence from the baneful power of Big Money, by coming together one and all. Alan: "Ive devoted my political life to bringing the virtues of justice, equality, and peace to as many people as possible, and Bernies presidential campaign has drawn millions of people into a movement thats grounded in those same shared ideals. Bernie has defied The Establishment and monied classes who control our rigged political system. Thats why millions of people see that the only way to break this oligarchy is to put Bernie Sanders in the White House. He can bring about the revolutionary change that will reverse income inequality, provide healthcare for all, open the door to debt-free college and protect our environment." All the early reports out of Iran showed supporters of reformist Hassan Rouhani winning every district on Friday-- there are 30-- in Tehran, the capital and biggest city. Western media immediately jumped to the conclusion that the conservatives (the Pinciplists) had been vanquished. Even Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel, who is the Principlists leader in Parliament (Majlis) and whose daughter is married to a son of the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, lost his seat. Currently the party holds 165 seats (56.8%) to the Reformists, who are led by Stanford-educated Mohammad Reza Aref, 52 seats (17.9%). Having driven from one end of Iran-- literally-- twice, I was immediately aware that Tehran isn't necessarily a harbinger for the rest of the country any more than results in New York City are for the U.S. A bloc of 30 seats from Tehran is important-- but what about the other 260 seats in Parliament-- not to mention the Assembly of Experts, which has 88 members and will appoint the next Supreme Leader. The BBC reported on Sunday that "early results gave former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a moderate conservative, and Mr Rouhani the most votes for the assembly, which is composed of mostly elder and senior clerics." not show a national rout of the hard-liners, but rather a very neck-and-neck race. Principalists have taken 64 seats (22.06%), Reformists 83 seats (28.62%) and Independents 55 seats (18.96%). Full results of the 290 seat Parliament will not be declared until tomorrow but preliminary results from 239 districts as of now doshow a national rout of the hard-liners, but rather a very neck-and-neck race. Principalists have taken 64 seats (22.06%), Reformists 83 seats (28.62%) and Independents 55 seats (18.96%). NY Times, covering the race from Tehran, Yesterday the, covering the race from Tehran, reported that state television was reporting big wins for hard-liners outside Tehran. The hard-liners are a mirror image of the American Republican Party-- backward, superstitious hate-filled, frightened and reactive-- and they both agree that the nuclear treaty should not be allowed to stand. In Tehran, at least, they were overwhelmingly rejected, historically rejected. The map at the bottom shows the Reformists winning in blue areas and the Principlists in the yellow areas. We'll keep updating this page as more information filters in today. This morning Reuters reported that "Rouhani and his allies won big gains in elections that could deepen Iran's engagement with the world after his government ended years of sanctions by agreeing to curb its nuclear program. The outcome in the results for Tehran on Monday was a blow to the conservative Islamic establishment, although it retains decisive power due to Iran's unwieldy dual system of clerical and republican rule. Most of the lawmakers who did not make it to the new parliament strongly opposed the nuclear deal, including Mehdi Koochakzadeh, who called Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif "a traitor", and Roohollah Hosseinian, who threatened to bury the negotiators under cement for agreeing to concessions to world powers." Is was as though Ted Cruz and Jeff Sessions had just lost their Senate seats and the whole Georgia delegation was ousted in the House. "This election can be a turning point in the history of the Islamic Republic," said an editorial in reformist newspaper Mardom-Salari, whose managing editor, Mostafa Kavakebian, won a parliamentary seat in Tehran. "The biggest achievement of this election is the return of reformists to the ruling system ... so they won't be called seditionists or infiltrators anymore," he said, referring to hardliners who accused reformists of links to the West. Rouhani and allied centrists and reformers won 15 out of the 16 Tehran seats in the 88-member Assembly of Experts, which is tasked with choosing the country's next supreme leader, final election results for Tehran showed. Two prominent conservatives, including the speaker of the powerful clerical body, were among those ousted in the capital... Beyond the capital, their gains were more limited, with conservatives keeping hold of many seats in both bodies. This is probably a bad year for a candidate to be counting on establishment endorsers. But the DC Democratic establishment hasn't figured that out yet. The wretched pro-Wall Street Schumercrats the establishment is running against progressives are all bragging about endorsements they've gotten from pathetic figures who are despised by the Americans who have heard of them. A candidate telling someone they have the endorsement of someone like a Harry Reid or Chuck Schumer (or on the other side of the aisle, Mitch McConnell or Paul Ryan) is a net loser and possibly, all things being equal, toxic. Schumer's crappy candidates are proving themselves as gutless as anyone has to be to be in bed with Schumer to begin with. The cowardly Schumercrats are all refusing to back President Obama's efforts to close the Guantanamo gulag before he leaves office. Worst of all are Pennsylvania's Katie McGinty ( Schumer's silliest candidate of 2016 ), Tammy Duckworth (IL), who has always backed the policy but now that the heat is on refuses to comment, New Hampshire's Maggie Hassan and Ohio's Ted Strickland, both Democratic establishment favorites in key Senate races, who are refusing to support the plan, saying it doesn't do enough to keep their constituents safe. Patrick Murphy, the overall worst Democrat running for the Senate in 2016 is studiously avoiding the topic but he generally sides with Republicans on controversial bills and opposes Obama and most House Democrats. He supported the Keystone XL pipeline; voted to condemn Obama for the exchange of American prisoner Bowe Bergdahl for five Taliban leaders held at Guantanamo; voted for a resolution seeking to rein in Obama's use of executive orders on issues like health care and immigration; consistently votes to gut financial sector consumer protections while collecting ungodly sums from Wall Street banksters; voted with the GOP to create the anti-Hillary witch-hunt Benghazi Committee; and supported a resolution seeking an investigation on whether the IRS targeted conservative groups. Alan Grayson (D-FL) and Joe Sestak (D-PA) are both loudly supporting Obama's bid to shut down the Guantanamo gulag but Reid and Schumer are both in overdrive to sabotage both their campaigns, even calling big donors and telling them to cut the two Obama allies off from funds. The two anti-democratic party bosses are having a terrible time propping up weak candidates like Strickland, Murphy and, especially McGinty, who is widely viewed as a joke with no backing outside of the most corrupt elements of the establishment. Katie McGinty joined the Democratic Party's primary race in Pennsylvania for U.S. Senate with the support of influential recruiters, and her fortunes in the wide-open race may ultimately be about more than her ability or her future as a candidate. It could be a test of whether the Democratic Party's top-level donors, fundraisers, elected officials and like-minded groups can propel a candidate into the good graces of the rank-and-file. ...McGinty's chief rival in the four-way race for the Democratic nomination is Joe Sestak, whose icy relationship with some party leaders is shaping this race-- just as it shaped the 2010 race he lost by 2 percentage points to Republican Pat Toomey. "I've never seen that lineup against one candidate in a primary not based on issue positions," said David Landau, chairman of the Delaware County Democratic Party. "I've certainly never seen anything like this based on personality and not issues." The primary election is April 26. The fall campaign in Pennsylvania promises to be expensive and closely watched, and Republicans say Democrats cannot retake control of the U.S. Senate without beating Toomey, a potentially formidable candidate who is seeking a second term in November. Sestak's loss to Toomey is viewed through various lenses: He deserves another chance after barely losing to Toomey during a historic year for Republicans. His feuding with party elders during the 2010 campaign-- including defeating the late Arlen Specter in the Democratic primary-- was a strong enough signal that he is not a team player. ["Team player" means fellating Chuck Schumer.] As early as 2013, Sestak, 64, a former Navy vice admiral and two-term congressman, said he was seriously considering running again and Landau and other Sestak supporters around Pennsylvania note that he has spent the intervening years as a regular on the local party event circuit around Pennsylvania, attending hundreds of fundraisers, county dinners and other gatherings. But doubts about Sestak propelled a search for an alternative by party leaders in Washington. After a few prospective candidates said "no," McGinty, 52, said "yes" and got into the race in August, 15 months after the long-time state and federal government official finished fourth in the 2014 gubernatorial primary. The problem for the party's heavy hitters is that their one-sided involvement hasn't necessarily gone well for them in top-tier races in recent Pennsylvania history. Sestak beat Specter, largely thanks to Democratic primary voters who had opposed the Republican-turned-Democrat for decades and weren't about to change. ...The list of McGinty supporters is a virtual who's who of power players in Pennsylvania Democratic Party politics, plus an assortment of U.S. senators and the Washington, D.C.-based Emily's List. In theory, endorsements can plug candidates into fundraising networks and networks of volunteers who will hand out leaflets, knock on doors and staff phone banks. But in interviews, Rendell and other McGinty supporters tended to downplay the significance of McGinty's super-structure of support, or what a McGinty loss would say about its influence. "We're in a different time and I would say in the past that (high-powered endorsements) would be a guarantee (of victory)," said Nancy Mills, a McGinty supporter who is the Allegheny County Democratic Party chairwoman. "I think that now people are so well informed and they do their own research and don't necessarily depend on an endorsement." Sestak, meanwhile, embraces his differences with party leaders, while acknowledging the downside of going against party leaders who can discourage help from major campaign donors. For her part, McGinty has doubled Sestak's fundraising since she entered the race, but she remains behind in available cash and polling. Rendell, McGinty's campaign chairman, acknowledged that endorsements are not fate-- "If they were determinative, then Donald Trump wouldn't exist," Rendell said-- and said it still remains to be seen whether McGinty and her backers can raise the millions necessary to air weeks of TV ads. "If the answer is 'yes,'" Rendell said, "then she's in business." Which, of course, is what politics is all about to self-serving corporate whores like Rendell. A creature of the establishment like Rendell could care less about the jaw-dropping, unqualified nature of McGinty, especially compared to Joe Sestak and Braddock Mayor John Fetterman. Jim Rogers : If you haven't already downgraded US in your mind, do so now We have. But the question is how far to downgrade the world... "This is a weblog that is truly welcome in blogtopia a new blog doesn't seem to be frantically trying to score points for any party. That does NOT mean it's afraid to take a stand or be critical....You really can't predict exactly where The Debate Link will come down on all issues. It's not chanting anyone's mantra." -- The Moderate Voice "[A]n emerging genius in legal scholarship and commentary." -- Jim Chen "It's on my 1st cup of coffee rss feed." -- Hanno Kaiser "I heart this blog.... he referenced Wittgenstein, and it was entirely appropriate and non-pretentious." -- kath.A.rine "[F]unny, thoughtful, acclaimed ...." -- The Core Bishop of Lancaster's cup for well-placed ad hominem attacks Thomas Rosica medal for originality. David Lammy trophy for religious knowledge. Eccles has been named as one of the 100 most influential saved people in Notting Hell, by the prestigious Calumny Chapel Parish Newsletter. Best blog by an idiotBlog most read by saved peopleCruellest blog attacking saintly pious peopleMost spiritual blog by a sockpuppetKieran Conry prize for virtue, modesty and humilityPottymouth Times award for the nastiest blog everStupidest pictures ever seen on a blogLeast read blog of 2015 (2nd prize to Bruvver Bosco)Tina Beattie medal for promoting orthodoxy"Utter filth" (Sheds and Shedmen, Croydon) We always welcome comments, but we moderate them to reduce spam, gratuitous unkindness and so forth. Because we moderate comments, they won't appear on the blog until one of us publishes them, but we try to do that in a timely way. We've had to make a change to the commenting page. People had told us that Blogger was eating their comments, so now, rather than embedding comment editing with the posts, it has to be done on a separate, full page. Unfortunately, the 'reply' option has disappeared so comments will just follow one another. We'll see how this goes. FINALLY, please note that we assert copyright for the material written by us that appears here Legal experts from the U.S. Department of Commerce and U.S. Customs and Border Protection collaborated with 20 senior officials from Sri Lanka Customs in Colombo in February on reforming customs procedures to enhance trade. The effort seeks to improve efficiency and transparency for businesses, allowing Sri Lanka to develop more fully its export potential and advance investment opportunities. The United States is working at all levels in Sri Lanka government, private sector, and development groups to help strengthen the economy for the benefit of all Sri Lankans, said U.S. Ambassador Atul Keshap. These reforms will send important signals to the trade community that Sri Lanka is open for business. The three-day workshop, provided in cooperation with the Embassy of the United States, will also better position Sri Lanka to meet its commitment under the World Trade Organization Agreement on Trade Facilitation. The sessions addressed issues key to Sri Lanka realizing its export-led development plan, including advance rulings, valuation and classification, and customs appeals. In addition, the U.S. experts held a one-day training for 30 District Court and Magistrate Judges who commonly hear customs appeals. Improving the legal environment for doing business in Sri Lanka fosters economic opportunity for local entrepreneurs and U.S. companies alike, said Megan McMillan, Attorney-Advisor for the U.S. Commerce Department Commercial Law Development Program (CLDP). She added, These ambitious reforms will strengthen Sri Lankas connections to global supply chains while saving Customs resources. These workshops are the first in a proposed series conducted in Sri Lanka in partnership with other U.S. government agencies. The United States is proud to work with its partner, Sri Lanka to improve customs operations that will facilitate trade and economic development in Sri Lanka, the region, and the world. BURNS, Ore. (AP) Armed guards still block access to the headquarters of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, but this time they carry badges. They're officers from the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, staffing posts once held by anti-government protesters. But they'll soon be gone, too, as the agency takes steps to return the compound to normal. On Friday, the scene was relatively still. A pair of geese honked their arrival as they drifted onto the pond nearest the headquarters. Other birds flitted from tree to tree, bush to bush, as the migratory season at the 187,000-acre refuge commences. But markers of the 41-day takeover endure. Concrete barriers and bundles of railroad ties stand at the refuge entry, a choke point created by the protesters as they tried to control access to the area. A shelter there - a guard shack, really - is now missing its tarp and twisted out of shape. The stone monument meant to hold an official government sign announcing the refuge stands empty. The protesters, led by businessman Ammon Bundy of Idaho, had proudly replaced the official sign with a big blue one reading "Harney County Resource Center." No one at the entryway could say where the sign had gone, perhaps squirreled away with other evidence collected in recent weeks by the FBI. Remnants of "Camp Finicum" the spot where the final act of the occupation unfolded still litter a parking area at the edge of the headquarters buildings. The camp was named by the last four occupiers for Robert "LaVoy" Finicum, 54, who was shot and killed by state troopers when he tried to evade arrest on Jan. 26. As others fled or surrendered, the four were left alone. They cobbled together their own base to withstand demands that they surrender. The holdouts -- David Fry, 27, of the Cincinnati area, Jeff Banta, 46, of Elko, Nevada, and Sean Anderson, 47 and his wife, Sandy, 48, of Riggins, Idaho -- arranged government pickups and SUVs in a rough corral, then used tarps and tents for shelter. After they gave up on Feb. 11, the FBI soon swarmed their post and the rest of the refuge headquarters, gathering evidence for criminal prosecutions facing at least 25 people. Some of Camp Finicum is gone, but the vehicles remain, as does the tent where Fry apparently retreated in the final moments before leaving only after he heard others shout "Hallelujah" as he wanted. Odds and ends are piled up - a piece of ladder or a ramp, fuel cans, a bench and more. Next to the camp is what appears to be a long trench, now lined with white tarp by government officials. It apparently was the outhouse for the final four that federal prosecutors mentioned in court filings. The entire scene got a fresh load of visitors Thursday, when defense attorneys and investigators arrived by bus to survey it for themselves. They toured the buildings and grounds where some of their clients spent January and part of February, insisting the refuge would never again be a federal compound. The lawyers couldn't touch, but only look and tape. The visit certainly gave them context to understand what happened out on the Oregon desert 30 mile southeast of Burns, but FBI evidence teams already have identified and removed evidence. According to a video posted to Facebook, Lisa Bundy also showed up Thursday. She's the wife of Ammon Bundy and said on the video that she had come from her Idaho home to fetch her husband's truck. She said she also wanted to get his clothes, ATVs - and picnic benches. She complained on the video that she had been told she couldn't take the items just yet. Another sign of normalcy is what's not on Sod House Lane, the two-lane road that leads to the refuge headquarters. There's no more electronic sign at the turn off at State Route 205 warning of arrest to those who ignored the roadblock. And the heavily armed FBI agents with their imposing BearCats no longer wave traffic to a stop a few miles from the headquarters, where some turn off Sod House Lane to reach the nonprofit Malheur Field Station. At the Burns Municipal Airport, there's no sign of the FBI special teams that rotated in from around the country 46 of the agency's 54 SWAT teams saw duty in Harney County. And at the Harney County Courthouse, the metal detector at the entrance is gone, as is the fencing that safeguarded police as they worked to end the takeover. Representatives of the Burns Paiute Tribe are expected to be the next to tour the refuge, planned for Monday. They will particularly be paying attention to what damage might have been done to artifacts and to sacred ground. Meantime, the Fish & Wildlife Service continues planning how to fully assess the damage, repair it and get the people who manage the expansive refuge back on the job. But that work is days away. So quiet reigned over the headquarters, seeming to amplify the sounds of geese and other birds claiming what's theirs. Rita Bosaho, who was born in Equatorial Guinea, is Spains first black member of Congress. Pepe Olivares While the number of overseas residents in Spain has risen to almost 10% of the population over the last two decades, a new European survey shows that they are highly underrepresented in Congress, where less than one percent of deputies are ethnic minorities. In comparison, in the Netherlands and the United Kingdom, which have similar percentages of foreign-born residents, around 10% of members of parliament belong to different ethnic groups. The survey shows a marked difference between northern and southern Europe: the further south, the fewer immigrant members of parliament there are In the same way that knowing the percentage of women in parliament doesn't necessarily tell us anything about women, but instead about how permeable and adaptable our political system is to social change, knowing the number of foreign-born parliamentarians doesn't necessarily tell us anything about immigration, explains Professor Laura Morales of the University of Leicesters department of politics and international relations, who took part in Pathways to Power, which studied political representation in the United Kingdom, Belgium, France, Germany, Greece, Italy, the Netherlands and Spain. Instead, it tells us more about the ability of our parliaments to represent diversity within the population they are supposed to represent and, ideally, they should reflect, she adds. Foreign-born residents are not allowed to take part in national elections. In order to stand for parliament, they must either become naturalized citizens by having lived in their new country of residence for a certain period of time or be the child of foreigners who were born in the country. In the case of the Pathways to Power project, parliamentarians with at least one foreign-born parent were counted as citizens of immigrant origin (CIO). The survey, which is still underway, shows a marked difference between northern and southern Europe: the further south, the fewer members of parliament who are CIOs. In Greece, where ethnic minorities make up around eight percent of the population, just one percent of parliamentarians are CIOs. In Italy, the figure is two percent. But in Spain, less than one percent of Congress members are CIOs. We still havent been able to collect the full data on the new term that has just begun, but aside from the symbolic election of Rita Bosaho [Spains first black deputy, who was elected for Alicante as part of the Compromis-Podemos-Es el moment coalition at the December general election], I dont think that overall the percentage has changed much because other deputies of foreign origin have lost their seat or didnt stand, says Morales. France and Belgium, which have long traditions of immigration, sit in the middle of the ranking. Germany, which is less multicultural, has fewer CIO members of parliament. The Pathways to Power survey says that after the Dutch 2010 elections, 13% of elected representatives were naturalized or the children of immigrants. In the United Kingdom in the same year, 11% of MPs in the House of Commons were CIOs. But as the saying goes, there are lies, damned lies, and statistics, meaning you need to be careful in interpreting the Pathway to Power figures. France and Belgium, which have long traditions of immigration, sit in the middle of the ranking From the 1990s until the start of the economic crisis, Spain experienced a rapid rise in immigration, unique in Europe, but these new arrivals have not yet had time to produce a second generation old enough to stand for elected office. On the other hand, in countries such as the United Kingdom and France, which have longer histories of mass immigration, the children and grandchildren of immigrants no longer appear on censuses as such, making it a matter of personal choice in many cases as to whether parliamentarians choose to identify themselves as members of ethnic minorities. The Pathways to Power survey also shows that there are considerable cross-national variations in the gender and age of CIO MPs across Europe. In the years studied, CIO MPs are more likely to be women in Belgium and Spain, but the gender pattern is balanced or variable in the other countries. Also, CIO MPs are noticeably younger in Belgium, Germany and the Netherlands, but not so in the other countries. In general, the survey notes that CIO MPs tend to be elected as candidates of left-wing or center-left parties more often than of center-right or right-wing parties. At the same time, CIO MPs are more likely to have a university degree. Spains position is surprising, but its because the left-wing parties havent taken the matter seriously The prelimary results of the survey also show that CIO MPs tend to have gained less political experience in their parties structure or in regional elected office before they win their seat in national parliament, and that so far, CIO MPs tend to be underrepresented in key leadership positions and on committees, although this may be a temporary effect resulting from their generally lower levels of parliamentary experience in some countries, the survey says. Daniela Vintila, a researcher at the University of Leicester who is working on the Pathways to Power project, highlights the generally positive attitudes toward immigrants among the Spanish population, which suggests that its position at the bottom of the ranking is an anomaly that could be corrected over time. Spains position is surprising, but its because the left-wing parties havent taken the matter seriously, says Professor Morales. In Italy and Greece, the left has begun to encourage immigrants to join their ranks and put ethnic minority candidates forward. But not in Spain. Neither the Socialist Party nor the United Left (IU), nor any of the left-leaning regional parties, have adopted a quota strategy, as they have for example with women. Podemos chief Pablo Iglesias. Uly Martin The leader of left-wing anti-austerity group Podemos, Pablo Iglesias, made it clear on Monday that his party would not be considering the latest offer from the Socialist Party (PSOE) secretary general, Pedro Sanchez, in a bid to win support for his investiture as prime minister. The PSOE has sent us a number of documents that are merely copied and pasted from their agreement with Ciudadanos, hiding the most shameful measures, Iglesias wrote on his Twitter account. This is not serious. The Podemos economy secretary stated that the chances of an agreement between his party and PSOE and Ciudadanos are practically zero The Podemos chief was referring to a deal reached between the PSOE and Ciudadanos last week, as part of ongoing negotiations to form a government after the December 20 general elections left no clear winner. While the incumbent Popular Party (PP) won the most votes at the polls, it fell short of a majority, and its leader, acting Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy, has failed to find support for this weeks investiture vote in Congress. Instead the PSOE and emerging center-right group Ciudadanos last Wednesday signed a wide-ranging policy agreement aimed at forming a minority government. But in order to be successful, the two parties will need either the support or abstention of other groups. Sanchez replied to Iglesiass tweet on the same social networking site, saying: It is down to you as to whether these measures begin a government of change. It would not be serious for [Mariano] Rajoy to continue. The Podemos economy secretary, Nacho Alvarez, also stated that the chances of an agreement between his party and PSOE and Ciudadanos are practically zero, which will make it very difficult for Sanchez to be voted in as prime minister at the investiture sessions in Congress, which will begin tomorrow and conclude with a midnight vote on Friday. Its a document with which, as is well known, we fundamentally disagree, said Alvarez. It will be very difficult to come up with an advanced social policy, one that will get back the rights that have been lost, based on the agreement with Ciudadanos, which is a kind of austerity-light. If the agreement reached with Ciudadanos is not modified, the document will be incoherent and unacceptable, he concluded. The PSOE had placed special focus in its offer to Podemos on measures it qualified as addressing social emergencies The Catalan allies of Podemos, Comu Podem, also poked fun at the document sent by the PSOE. Great work in changing the front cover, but with barely any proposals for Catalonia, the coalition stated. The Galician partners of Podemos, En Marea, also rejected the offer. En Marea and local citizens know how to tell the difference between proposals for Galicia and empty words. The PSOE had placed special focus in its offer to Podemos on measures it qualified as addressing social emergencies. This nod to Iglesiass party, which presented a proposal for a law to tackle what it views as Spains current state of social emergency, includes a battery of measures aimed at dealing with inequality. These include setting a minimum level for social benefits, guaranteed water supplies for those living in poverty and alternative accommodation for those who have lost their homes. English version by Simon Hunter. SUBSCRIBERS OF UCOMS ALL TIME BEST OFFER TO ENJOY ADDITIONAL BENEFITS Armenia-Azerbaijan: EU sets up monitoring capacity along the international borders PACE co-rapporteurs on Armenia concerned by reports of alleged war crimes or inhuman treatment perpetrated by Azerbaijans armed forces There is still 35% gender pay gap: Sona Ghazaryan Google Ad Global Finance Names Ameriabank the Safest Bank in Armenia Mikayel and Karen Vardanyans provided 136 million AMD support for the overhaul of the Myasnikyan statue, which was in unsafe state of disrepair Believe me, as a representative of a country which uses the Schengen system very often, it is quite important. Vardanyan I really look forward to having answers from the Azerbaijani side for these alleged gross human rights violations: Secretary General I call on Armenian and Azerbaijani parliamentarians to use this Assembly as an agora of opportunities President Tiny Kox UCOMS SPECIAL OFFER OF THE UNLIMITED INTERNET IS NOW TERMLESS There is no place for the death penalty in a State that respects human rights: PACE General Rapporteur EU and CoE call on two Member States that have not yet acceded to this Protocol Armenia and Azerbaijan to do so without delay An urgent debate requested on "The military hostilities between Armenia and Azerbaijan". UCOM AND PES-PES CONTINUE COOPERATION WITHIN THE FRAMEWORK OF EDUCATIONAL PROJECT The statement of the meeting between Prime Minister Pashinyan, President Aliyev, President Macron and President Michel of October 6, 2022 Largest Corporate Bond Program at the Securities Market of Armenia Completed Successfully Google Ad The statement of the Defender on the video of the execution of Armenian PoWs by the Azerbaijani armed forces LEVEL UP ONLY FOR STUDENTS: UCOM OFFERS X2 AND X3 MORE INTERNET STATEMENT BY SECRETARY ANTONY J. BLINKEN This criminal act is another proof that the Armenophobia policy. Tatoyan Nikol Pashinyan, Nancy Pelosi discuss a number of issues related to the Armenian-American agenda and regional developments Delegation by Nancy Pelosi Accompanied by Alen Simonyan Visits Tsitsernakaberd Memorial Complex Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi Arrives in Yerevan Armenian Revytech, global technology leader SAP and financial services software specialist SAP Fioneer sign a cooperation agreement With 120 million drams donated by Mikael Vardanyan, the defenders of the homeland will be treated in a new building OSCE Chairman-in-Office and OSCE Secretary General call for immediate cessation of hostilities along Armenia-Azerbaijan border Statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Artsakh USA Embassy Message for U.S. Citizens ANCA Issues National Call to Action to Stop Taxpayer Funding of Aliyevs Aggression Armenian FM holds meetings in Geneva, discusses the issue of Syrian refugees On February 29, on the sidelines of the 31st session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian met Philip Ruddock, Australias Special Envoy for Human Rights. Edward Nalbandian and Philip Ruddock touched upon the issues of tightening of cooperation within international organizations. During the meeting, joint steps towards the development of bilateral relations were discussed, importance attached to organization of high-level visits. The sides commended the role of the Armenian community in Australia in the expansion of bilateral cooperation. At the meeting, thoughts were exchanged on regional issues and ways to resolve them. On the same day, Nalbandian met in Geneva met Zeid Raad Al Hussein, UN High Commissioner for Human Rights. Welcoming Foreign Minister of Armenia, High Commissioner Al Hussein commended Armenias strong stance, continuous efforts in prevention of new acts of genocide, stressing that today the international community is acting more decisively in the prevention of crimes against humanity. Regarding this, Minister Nalbandian outlined that as a nation, which survived the first genocide of the 20th century, we feel obliged to undertake steps in consolidation of international communitys efforts to exclude new crimes against humanity. During the meeting, issues relating human rights due to the situation unfolded in the Middle East, minorities issues and steps to resolve them were discussed. In this regard, the fact that Armenia has sheltered nearly 20 thousands of refugees from Syria was mentioned. The sides reflected on human rights protection in Armenia. In this context, Edward Nalbandian stressed, that effective cooperation has been established in this field between Armenia and international organizations dealing with human rights. Upon the High Commissioners request, Edward Nalbandian presented the efforts exerted by Armenia and the OSCE Minsk group Co-Chairs towards a peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh issue. It is not a bad thing for us, that the route known as the Goldene Strae or the Golden Road as we will get to know it- has escaped the attention of so many. It has been spared being overrun by hordes of tourists and as you will discover the Merkel: Europe must stay united on refugee crisis German Chancellor Angela Merkel called on her European partners Sunday to find a common solution to the refugee crisis. GALLERY "I am very optimistic that the European path will be successful," Merkel said, stressing it was not time to think about alternatives such as national border closures. Berlin (dpa) - Merkel said in a television interview with broadcaster ARD that she is using all her power to find a European solution and to address the causes behind the migration, especially in Syria.Merkel said she had no "plan B" for a national solution to the refugee crisis if Europe fails to reach an agreement with Turkey to slow the flow of refugees into Europe."I am very optimistic that the European path will be successful," she said, stressing it was not time to think about alternatives such as national border closures.Merkel said keeping Europe united and demonstrating humanity were her top priorities and urged Germans to have patience."This is a very important phase in our history," she said.A special migration summit is planned for March 7 between the European Union and Turkey - the last stop for many migrants before reaching Europe. The 28-country bloc expects steps from Ankara to curb the flows.Europe has been struggling to deal with a migration surge that brought more than 1 million people to the continent in 2015. Many are asylum seekers fleeing the war in Syria, but economic migrants have also joined their ranks. The Ukroboronprom State Concern has asked lawmakers of local town councils all over Ukraine to consider the possibility of exempting local defense industrial companies from paying land tax. The press service of the concern reported last week that Ukroboronprom Roman Romanov put forward the initiative. He called on the lawmakers at local town councils to support the initiative of the Ternopil city council that provided a tax benefit to the manufacturer of antenna systems and satellite communications systems - Promin research and production enterprise that resumed operations in the interests of the country's defense complex in 2015. "Each saved hryvnia is development of the defense and industrial sector, designing and production of new samples and investment in the re-equipment of workshops," he said. Earlier in January the Ukroboronprom asked the government to revoke the mandatory requirement to send 75% of profit to the national budget by defense and industrial enterprises that was introduced in the beginning of 2016, as this decision is not in line with the task set to the defense and industrial complex to provide for development of production and settling the task of replacing imported goods. Romanov said that the loading of the Ukroboronprom's enterprises is 40% on average today, while in 2015 the concern sent UAH 685 million of own funds to development programs. The need for these purposes foreseen in the draft state program on development of the defense and industrial sector until 2020 is estimated at UAH 13 billion. The concern said that total net profit of the Ukroboronprom's enterprises in 2015 reached UAH 1.626 billion, while in 2014 their net loss stood at UAH 348 million. Public joint-stock company Ukrnafta has proposed that the Ukrainian government revises oil royalty via connecting it to the price of Urals oil on the global market, according to the documents sent by the company to the Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine, a copy of which has been forwarded to Interfax-Ukraine. The company proposed that quotations of Urals Mediterranean and Urals Rotterdam are lower than $30, the royalty is set at a zero. With the quotations in the $30-60 range, the royalty is halved, and if the price of Urals oil is over $100 the royalty is increased by 1.3 times. "We propose that public joint-stock company Ukrnafta has a chance to use all saved money that will be received from the reduction of the royalty to fulfill its investment program. All workover and drilling of wells will be organized in the way to increase production and funds to pay taxes," the company said in a letter to the government. As reported, referring to Ukrnafta Head Mark Rollins, the fall in oil quotations to $33 per barrel will be a problem for the company, and if the oil price falls to $25 per barrel, Ukrnafta will stop generating operation money flow. Blocking of Russian truck transit to result in claims against Ukraine to WTO infrastructure minister Blocking of Russian truck transit could entail claims against Ukraine to the World Trade Organization (WTO), Infrastructure Minister of Ukraine Andriy Pyvovarsky has said. "Our European partners could file claims to the World Trade Organization against Ukraine for blocking transit if transit is blocked," he said on Inter TV on Sunday. The minister said that under international rules the blocking of transit is banned, as transit does not have boundaries. He said that at present there is no blockage of Russian truck transit. "There is no blockage. There are statements of public activists from the Svoboda party Trucks with Russian registration that entered Ukraine from the European Union, Belarus or Russia after February 25 left Ukraine or having a rest and continue their trips tomorrow," Pyvovarsky said. He also said that Ukrainian trucks involved in transit across Russia is seven times more than Russian trucks that are involved in transit across Ukraine. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has permitted supply of Ukrainian lamb meat, poultry and beef, and the veterinary services of the two countries are being agreed the draft veterinary certificates for exports of milk and dairy products, fish and fish products. According to a posting on the website of the State Veterinary and Biosecurity Service of Ukraine, on February 25, 2016 deputy head of the State Veterinary and Biosecurity Service of Ukraine Oleksandr Verzhykhovsky met a delegate from the World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) from the UAE Abdel Rahim Al-Hamdi held at the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water. Al-Hamdi said at the meeting that a ban on exports of beef from Ukraine has been lifted and the access of Ukrainian companies that have the right to export poultry to the EU to the UAE market has been approved. The sides signed veterinary certificates for exports of beef and lamb meat from Ukraine to the UAE, which is confirmation of Ukraine's right to supply these products to the UAE market. The parties agreed to quickly draw up the veterinary certificate for exports of honey from Ukraine and health certificates for exports of confectionary, canned fruit and vegetables and other food. The Ukrainian veterinary service reported that the interested companies are to apply to the UAE Ministry of Environment and Water to receive the right to export poultry, beef and lamb meat. After the inspection the companies will be included in the list of companies that can exports these products to the UAE. The Ukrainian army has not had any fatalities in Donbas on Saturday, yet one serviceman has suffered injuries, Ukrainian Presidential Administration spokesman for military matters Andriy Lysenko has said. "None of our servicemen has been killed in the hostilities over the past day, but one has been injured. That happened in an explosion near Maryinka," he said at a press briefing in Kyiv on Sunday. Militants opened random gunfire on the Zolote checkpoint in the Luhansk sector, Lysenko said, adding that militants fired a 82mm mortar allegedly trying to provoke return fire. Militants fired 82mm and 120mm mortars on Krasnohorivka from the side of militant-held Staromykhailivka. According to Lysenko, militants used small arms, grenade launchers and machineguns against Ukrainian servicemen in the Donetsk airport area and the towns of Pisky, Avdiyivka and Opytne. Provocations continued near Horlivka, Kyiv said. The area near Chermalyk and Maryinka in the Mariupol sector was not quiet either, and one provocation was observed near Vodyane, Lysenko said. Militants conducted 415 attacks on Ukrainian army positions in Donbas in the period from February 20 till 27, including 85 times by use of armaments which were supposed to be withdrawn in accordance with the Minsk agreements, head of the Ukrainian mission to the Joint Center for Control and Coordination (JCCC) Lt. Gen. Andriy Taran has said. In most cases, rebel-held Donetsk and Horlivka and their suburbs became the sources of instability from where the truce was violated, the press center of the Ukrainian mission to JCCC quoted Taran as saying on Saturday. The press center reported 88 militant attacks near Maryinka, 59 near Opytne, 52 near Avdiyivka, and 50 near Pisky. Tensions were equally high near Krasnohorivka (45 ceasefire breaches), Zaitseve (45) and Novhorodske (36). Also, the head of the Ukrainian mission to JCCC reported a growing number of armed provocations staged by militants against the rebel-controlled populated localities for the purpose of putting the blame on the Ukrainian Armed Forces. "In order to prevent escalation of tensions, the Ukrainian side initiated a truce 121 times, including 85 times successfully," the report said. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has ordered preparing a special session of the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council to update a "strategy of Crimea's reintegration." "To update our strategy of Crimea's reintegration into Ukraine, I've ordered today that a special session of the National Security and Defense Council be prepared. I expect the Cabinet of Ministers to submit a detailed timetable of measures to defend Ukraine's national interests in international courts and hold the aggressor state liable before both Ukraine as a state and Ukrainian private companies," Poroshenko said in an address related to the second anniversary of beginning of applying counter measures to Russia's occupation of Crimea on Friday. Poroshenko has said that Ukraine doesn't recognize and will never recognize de jure those citizens of the peninsula, who received Russian passports, as Russian citizens. "These are not Russian citizens who now live in Crimea, it is populated exclusively by the citizens of Ukraine, these are our people living on our territory, which is temporarily occupied," he stressed. The president also listed priority tasks, namely the protection of rights and freedoms of the residents of Crimea, support of any sources of "legal resistance to the occupying Russian authorities and its local puppet goblins [Goblin is the nickname of Crimea's de facto head Sergei Aksyonov]." The president stressed that Ukraine would resolutely protect collective rights of cultural and religious communities on the territory of Crimea and Sevastopol, in particular the rights of ethnic Ukrainians, as well as indigenous peoples: Crimean Tatars, Crimean Karaites, other ethnic minorities, all Ukrainian patriots, who didn't accept an occupation and resist in any possible way. "To protect their rights, including their right to a protest, we'll broadly involve international organizations," he added. Moreover, according to the head of state, Kyiv will take measures for the issue of the illegal occupation of the territory of Crimea and Sevastopol as an unprecedented after the Second World War to remain on the agenda of European and world policy. "The main prerequisite for reintegration as a temporarily occupied territory is an advanced development of economy of Ukraine, its democratic institutions and mechanisms for the protection of human rights, an improvement in living standards," the president stressed. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has ordered the Defense Ministry and the Ukrainian Armed Forces General Staff to come up with proposals on possible improvements of Ukraine's combat capabilities in Kherson region and along the country's entire Black Sea coast. "I order that the Ministry of Defense and the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces submit their proposals in terms of a considerable enhancement of Ukraine's military capabilities in Kherson region and along the entire Black Sea coast," Poroshenko said in his address published by the presidential press service on Friday. Russia has significantly stepped up its military presence in the region and is turning Crimea "into a large military base that poses a threat, including a nuclear one, not only to Ukraine, but to all the countries in the Black Sea region," Poroshenko said. The anti-terrorist operation (ATO) headquarters in eastern Ukraine observed 71 militant attacks on Ukrainian positions on Sunday. "Seventy-one attacks on Ukrainian army positions were observed over the past day, including 36 in the Donetsk sector, 22 in the Mariupol sector, and 13 in the Luhansk sector," the staff press center wrote on Facebook on Monday morning. It says that militants were using weapons banned by the Minsk agreements - 82mm and 120mm mortars. According to Kyiv, militants thrice shelled Ukrainian forces near Avdiyivka and Zaitseve in the Donetsk area on Sunday evening; in all, 17 mines were fired. Grenade launchers and large-caliber machine guns shelled strongholds near Pisky, Opytne, Novhorodske, Troyitske and Mayorsk, and infantry combat vehicles and snipers attacked positions near Troyitske, it said. Militants shelled fortifications near Talakivka with 82mm mortars, and grenade launchers and large-caliber machineguns attacked strongholds near Krasnohorivka and Maryinka in the Mariupol area, the staff said. The Ukrainian army positions came under attack of the militants' mortar and automatic grenade launcher near Orikhove in Luhansk region, it said. Random fire of 82mm and 120mm mortars, grenade launchers and large-caliber machineguns was conducted on Ukrainian positions near Mayorsk, Krasnohorivka, Avdiyivka, Luhanske, Bohuslavske and Novozvanivka. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko has signed a decree determining his representatives in the commission for holding the tender for the position of Director of the State Investigation Bureau, the press service of the head of state reported. The members of the commission appointed by the president will include Head of the Civil Law Faculty of the Law Department of Kyiv National University, Academician of the National Academy of Legal Sciences of Ukraine, Ph.D. (Law), Professor Roman Maidanyk, Professor of the Theory of Law and State Faculty of the Law Department of Taras Shevchenko Kyiv National University Viktor Samokhvalov and partner at the Sayenko Kharenko law firm Tetiana Slipachuk, according to the report posted on the website of the president on Saturday evening. The decree comes into force on the date of its publication. A Ukrainian soldier and the body of another deceased soldier were captured by militants in Donetsk region on February 25, the spokesman of the Ukrainian president's administration for the anti-terrorist operation (ATO) matters Andriy Lysenko said. "On February 25, two servicemen of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, who were moving in a truck to their positions on the front line, hit a land mine. As a result of the explosion, the truck was completely destroyed and one soldier was killed. The second soldier and the body of the deceased were captured by illegal armed groups. This happened in Bakhmut district, Donetsk region," he said at a briefing in Kyiv on Monday. According to Lysenko, the Ukrainian government and the military command are "making every effort to free them." Meanwhile, on February 28, none of the Ukrainian military was killed or injured in the ATO zone, the spokesman said. Despite the fact that the enemy shelled the Ukrainian army positions 71 times over the past 24 hours, not a single one of Ukrainian soldier was killed or injured, Lysenko said. Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers has approved the composition of the selection commission for the establishment of the State Investigations Bureau consisting of six persons - three representatives of the president and three representatives of the government, and expects the parliament to appoint three remaining members of the agency. "We have established a selection commission made up of six of a total of nine members, we expect the Verkhovna Rada [to appoint the remaining] three candidates to the tender commission. Also, the Cabinet has issued a resolution to set up the State Investigations Bureau as the central agency of executive power. We have scheduled the first session of the selection commission for tomorrow in order to launch the procedure of the appointment of the director of the State Investigations Bureau," Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseniy Yatseniuk said at a special government meeting in Kyiv on Monday. During the meeting, the Cabinet approved the candidacies of six members of the commission: three put forward by the government, namely First Deputy Interior Minister Eka Zguladze, First Deputy Head of the Ministry of Justice Natalia Sevostianova and member of the board of the Interior Ministry, MP Anton Heraschenko (People's Front fraction), and three nominated by the president - Head of the Civil Law Faculty of the Law Department of Kyiv National University, Academician of the National Academy of Legal Sciences of Ukraine, Ph.D. (Law), Professor Roman Maidanyk, Professor of the Theory of Law and State Faculty of the Law Department of Taras Shevchenko Kyiv National University Viktor Samokhvalov and partner at the Sayenko Kharenko law firm Tetiana Slipachuk. As reported, on Sunday, February 28, Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko signed a decree determining his representatives in the commission for holding the tender for the position of Director of the State Investigations Bureau. As reported, the Verkhovna Rada passed a bill on the State Investigations Bureau (bill No.2114) on November 12. The document states that the State Bureau of Investigations will deal with crimes committed by officials of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine and prosecutors of the specialized anti-corruption prosecution agencies, except for cases when the pre-trial investigation of these crimes defers to the jurisdiction of detectives of the internal control subdivision of the national Anti-Corruption Bureau. The State Bureau of Investigations is subordinated to central power. Its director will be appointed by the president of Ukraine under the recommendation of prime minister on a contest basis. The selection commission will choose the candidates. First Deputy and Deputy Director of the State Bureau of Investigations will be appointed and dismissed by the bureau's director under the contest commission's nomination. Chief of the Crimean office of Azov Civil Corps Stanislav Krasnov, who was detained by the employees of the Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) and now is kept in SBU's the pretrial detention facility, now cooperates with Russia and already handled the lists of Interior Ministry's Azov Corps to his curator, SBU reported. "Krasnov directly passed Russian side the lists of Azov Corps, also was meeting with his Russian curator in the Republic of Belarus within February 10 to 13," said SBU chief of staff Oleksandr Tkachuk at a briefing in Kyiv. He also has said that the SBU knows the name of the Russian curator of detained Krasnov. "He has been keeping in touch with the Russian party since 2014We know the surname of the citizen of Russian Federation, with which Krasnov was in touch," Tkachuk added. On Tuesday, March 1, at 10.30, the press center of the Interfax-Ukraine News Agency will host a press conference by representatives of the state higher educational institution Vadym Hetman Kyiv National Economic University entitled "Election of Heads of Departments in Higher Education Institutions: Academic Councils of Universities vs. Courts?" regarding the situation which emerged following the election of a new dean of the law department by the University's Academic Council. The participants will include director of the Legal Department of the Hetman Kyiv National Economic University Tetiana Ovsiannikova; representative of Ukraine's Education and Science Ministry; members of the student academic council of the Hetman Kyiv National Economic University; lawyers of Volkov & Partners Law Firm Ihor Martsyn and Olha Halaka (8/5-A Reitarska Street). Registration requires press accreditation. People's Bank of China Deputy Governor Yi Gang attends a conference during the 2016 IIF G20 Conference at the financial district of Pudong in Shanghai, China, February 25, 2016. [Photo/Agencies] The market should not overreact to the Chinese currency renminbi, or the yuan's, fluctuation, said Yi Gang, vice governor of China's central bank. He made the remarks during an interview with the Xinhua News Agency on Sunday, after the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting in Shanghai. The exchange rate mechanism is one of the topics of the two-day meeting, Yi said, adding that the wording used in the meeting's communique, such as "we will consult closely on exchange markets," is unprecedented, highlighting the attention paid by the members to recent exchange rates volatility. The meeting sent a clear signal that the group will "refrain from competitive devaluations," which will help alleviate concerns over a "currency war," Yi said. In terms of the yuan exchange rate, Yi said, although the yuan's flexibility has increased, its fluctuation range is still smaller than many other currencies in developed economies, and much less than emerging markets. "Markets should not overreact to the yuan's fluctuation", he said. Speaking on concerns over capital outflow, Yi said the recent drop in China's foreign exchange (FX) reserves was mainly due to a rise of FX assets in residential accounts and a reduction of FX liabilities, which are not likely to last for long. Yi added that the yuan exchange rate was also affected by some short-term speculations. "We have full confidence in the yuan's fundamentals and believe that the yuan exchange rate fluctuation will be based on its fundamentals, rather than short-term expectations," the vice-governor said, adding that China has patience in this aspect. The meeting has reached three consensuses on the global economy, Yi said. First, global economic risk is accelerating, which makes G20 members work together to increase policy communication and coordination. Second, the market should not be overly pessimistic. G20 members recognized that there are growing concerns of further downward risks; meanwhile, fundamentals of the global economy are not too bad. The financial market is probably overreacting, and may be too pessimistic. Third, G20 members should work together to strengthen global economic recovery. Apparently the magic of Disney really does have wings. Walt Disney World, in collaboration with Brazilian airline TAM, has unveiled a colourful character-themed plane that took 10 eight-hour days to create. The shining Boeing 767-300 now features a number of the favourite faces including Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Cinderella's Castle. Walt Disney World, in collaboration with Brazilian airline TAM, has unveiled a colourful character-themed plane that took 10 eight-hour days to create. The shining Boeing 767-300 now features a number of the favourite faces including Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck and Cinderella's Castle. TAM passengers will be immersed in the Disney experience as soon as they set foot on board with the airline saying there will be a themed service, and special elements in the flight attendants' uniforms. To wrap the plane, it took 536 adhesive plates, totalling over 9,000 square feet of prints, applied carefully over 10 days, with eight hours a day of intense work. To wrap the plane, it took 536 adhesive plates, totalling over 9,000 square feet of prints, applied carefully over 10 days, with eight hours a day of intense work. TAM passengers will be immersed in the Disney experience as soon as they set foot on board with the airline saying there will be a themed service, and special elements in the flight attendants' uniforms. The new plane is the first Latin American airline with a Disney-theme and will be used for guests travelling on international long-distance routes. 'With this aircraft, the trip to Walt Disney World, the place where dreams come true, becomes even more magical,' said Ramiro Vasquez, Director de Marketing and Sales for the Latin America of Walt Disney World Parks and Resorts. 'For the executive, there is no better time than now to plan a visit to Walt Disney World. 'We will have new attractions and amazing news in all four parks this year. No one can miss it!' The aircraft debuted this week with a special inaugural ceremony, with the big unveil taking place after the wave of a wand by Tinker Bell herself. Other Disney characters included the famous mouse himself who also attended the event and mingled with attendees. Full Disney theming: Images show food on the plane being presented in the shape of Mickey mouse. Pilots caught Disney fever too with hats, gloves and even a plush toy of Mickey dangling from the cockpit ceiling. A few lucky guests were able to witness the unveiling of the large plane before it took its first flight to Orlando. The exterior of the airplane shows the magic and fantasy of Walt Disney World and portrays the characters having fun on a roller coaster. ABC NEWS(WASHINGTON) -- Speaking to a rowdy crowd of about 7,000 in Kennesaw, Georgia, over the weekend, Marco Rubio made a promise: hell do whatever it takes to stop GOP front-runner Donald Trump. I will campaign as hard as it takes, I will stay in this race as long as it takes, Rubio told the crowd. A con artist will never get control of this party. But the Florida senator wont say which states he plans to win on Super Tuesday, the biggest day of the primary season. Rubio has yet to win a single state, and critics argue Rubio must win at least one of the 11 Republican states voting on March 1 to remain a viable candidate. Rubio disagrees. On Fox News Sunday, Rubio said that he could lose every Super Tuesday state and still win the nomination. In Georgia, he argued he would continue to work forward irrespective of Tuesday. We feel good about Tuesday. Were gonna get a lot of delegates on Tuesday. We want to win states on Tuesday. Were gonna win states after Tuesday, he said. I can tell you this, I dont care about if I have to get in my pickup truck and drive around the country like I did when I ran for the state senate. Donald Trump will never be the nominee of the party of Lincoln and Reagan. Rubio has long refused to play the expectations game as he puts it. Instead, the Rubio team has repeatedly said that what matters is delegate count. Rubio maintains that a majority of Republican voters do not want Trump to be the nominee and will support whoever is left standing. He said it might take a "few days" or "weeks" before voters start to coalesce behind him, maybe not in time for Tuesday but certainly in time for the winner-take-all states. Thats where...were going to do real well, and well get to the 1,237, [Trump] will not, Rubio told reporters in Huntsville, Alabama. The candidate thats gonna win this is gonna get that by getting 1,237 delegates. No ones gonna get that on Tuesday, or the following Tuesday, said Rubios campaign manager Terry Sullivan in Houston after the last GOP debate. Sullivan said the race would be a very, very long slog and the campaign would be ready for anything -- contested convention or not -- but that the party needed to rally behind Rubio. I cant control when other guys are gonna drop out -- I can wish. I cant control it. And so Im prepared for if either folks drop out or if they stay in," he said. Beyond Super Tuesday, many say Rubios home state of Florida is a must-win for the junior senator. Rubio wont say what hell do if he loses there -- hes adamant hell win. Gov. John Kasich of Ohio has said he would drop out if he couldnt win his home state. Both the Florida and Ohio primaries will be held on March 15. Super Tuesday states include Alaska, Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont and Virginia. In the last few days, Rubio has campaigned in Texas, Oklahoma, Georgia, Alabama, Arkansas, Minnesota and Tennessee. On Sunday, he held four events alone in Virginia. Hes also won the endorsements of Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam, Tennessee Sen. Lamar Alexander, Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchison and former Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty. Copyright 2016, ABC Radio. All rights reserved. BEIJING, Feb. 28 -- The Communist Party of China (CPC) has launched a year-long campaign to instill the values it wants in its 88 million members. The education campaign will focus on the study of the Party Constitution and rules, as well as remarks made by General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping, according to a plan made public by the general office of the CPC Central Committee on Sunday. The campaign will particularly target Party members with wavering confidence in communism and socialism with Chinese characteristics, as well as those who are advocating the Western value, violating Party rules, working inefficiently or behaving unethically, said the document. The CPC central authority asked Party committees to regard the campaign as "a major political task." Party members should always think and act in comformity with the CPC Central Committee's policies and guidelines. Meanwhile, they should work hard to serve the people and make contribution to social progress and economic development, according to the document. The CPC launched a 15-month "mass line" education campaign in June 2013 aimed at tightening Party discipline and bringing the Party closer to the public. The CPC later initiated a campaign to improve the conduct of officials, focusing on the "three stricts and three honests." The slogan refers to "being strict in morals, power and self-discipline," along with "being honest in decisions, business and behavior." Chinese shoppers' predilection for overseas products, as evidenced by the numbers who buy daily necessities abroad during the Spring Festival break, signals huge opportunities for domestic companies endeavoring to make better quality products. The mainlanders on vacation in Japan spent billions of yuan on household goods such as toilet lids and rice cookers, as well as basic products such as shampoo and toothpaste. Some people, such as Victor Chan, managing director of Daming United Rubber Products in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, blame the trend on Chinese people's blind worship of foreign commodities. He believes many products made on the Chinese mainland are now world-class, equal to any foreign competitor. However, Cai Jun, a 28-year-old bank clerk in Beijing, thinks differently. She spent Chinese New Year in Tokyo, where she picked up a rice cooker, an item that is available in any Chinese supermarket. "The rice cooker I bought enjoys a good reputation in China. Many of my friends told me Japanese rice cookers have a special technology," she said. Wang Qing, who visits Japan each year to buy everyday products, traveled to Kyoto for Spring Festival. "I'm not crazy about foreign brands," she said, "but the quality of many Chinese products means they are just not worth the price. Also, toothpaste made in Japan is double or triple the price in a Chinese supermarket." Her shopping list this year also included daily necessities that can be commonly found in most Chinese stores, including thermoflasks, blood pressure monitors, skin cream, multivitamins and breakfast cereal. "I stock up on necessities on my annual trip to Japan," Wang added. "It means I don't have to worry about product quality, while the price difference saves me the cost of a round-trip ticket." Opportunity Many Chinese hold a similar attitude, a fact that has hit small and medium-sized Chinese companies that have struggled to meet the growing demand for high-quality products. Yet this demand has also generated niche markets for Chinese enterprises that value customer experience and have built their reputations with trailblazing designs and products. Daming United Rubber manufactures Aoni condoms, recognized as the world's thinnest prophylactic, and Chan said his company has strict production regulations to ensure quality. "Our standards reach the national level or even the international level," he said, adding that to meet growing demand in the mainland market, the company is preparing to build a second production facility in Hong Kong to increase output. Last year, Daming produced more than 200 million condoms. For other innovation-oriented companies in China, the desire among domestic consumers for high-quality goods is an opportunity to turn their cutting-edge technologies into popular products. Technology company Hongda Hi-tech Group in Changchun, capital of Jilin province, for example, has developed a wide range of fingerprint-activated locks. One product can store and recognize 99 different sets of fingerprints and has a service life of more than three years. "Our locks can quickly determine whether two friction ridge impressions are likely to have originated from the same individual," said Wang Xin, the company's chairman. "Leading research in fingerprint sensors has given us an unrivaled edge over our competitors." The company's locks are now widely used in high-end hotels, residential neighborhoods and government offices throughout China, as well as exported to more than 30 countries and regions, including the United States, India, Brazil and Germany. The key to Hongda's success lies in its years of research and development in the fingerprint identification technology, which it began in 1996. "We believe the growing appetite for better quality products will give Hongda a push," Wang Xin said. China's top Internet regulator on Sunday ordered the microblogging platforms of Sina and Tencent to shut down the accounts of Ren Zhiqiang, a celebrity blogger and property developer, for spreading illegal information. "Cyberspace is not a lawless field and it should not be used to spread illegal information by anyone," said Jiang Jun, spokesperson with the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC). Ren's microblog accounts have been closed after netizens reported that he had regularly posted illegal information, "resulting in a vile influence," according to Jiang. The CAC made the decision in accordance with China's laws and regulations, including a top legislature decision on safeguarding Internet security and a State Council circular which authorized the administration to manage online information and content. Jiang called on both the Internet service providers and netizens to enhance awareness and guard "the bottom lines" of laws, the socialist system, the national and citizen's legal interests, social order, ethics and the authenticity of information. The celebrity microbloggers as well as bloggers dubbed "Big Vs" for their large number of followers should use their influence correctly, exemplify in observing laws, shoulder their due social responsibilities, and promote "positive energy" actively, Jiang said. The administration vowed intensified law enforcement efforts in monitoring and managing online information and content, saying that it would not allow the users of the closed accounts to register again under another name. (File photo) The year 2016 is a big year for China's aerospace industry, as several rockets will be sent into space, including Tiangong-2, an orbiting space lab and Shenzhou-11, a manned spacecraft with two people on board. Two new types of rockets will be launched in 2016. Long March-7, scheduled to be launched in June, will put the country's first cargo ship, Tianzhou-1, into space in the first half of 2017 to dock with Tiangong-2 and conduct experiments. Furthermore, Long March-5 is slotted to be sent into space in September of this year. This type of rocket has the largest carrying capacity among the new generation of rockets in China, with a maximum payload capacity of 25 tons to low Earth orbit and 14 tons to geosynchronous transfer orbit. Both of the launches will take place at the newly constructed Wenchang Satellite Launch Center in south China's Hainan province. In addition, China will send several experimental satellites into space in 2016. China's retrievable Shijian-10 satellite will be launched in April at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center. China will also send a Hard X-ray Modulation Telescope, an X-ray space observatory, and a quantum communication satellite. China plans to launch its first ever carbon-tracking satellite into space in August. According to a staff member from China's Aerospace Science and Technology Corporation, China plans to conduct more than 20 satellite launch missions in 2016, which positions China to exceed U.S. launches. Among them, a total of 15 launches are significant projects or first flights. China launched the first of a new generation of navigation satellites for its BeiDou navigation system in 2015. The next of these satellites is set to be launched this year. Gaofen-3 satellite, a Chinese civilian remote sensing satellite, will also be sent into space in 2016. In addition, China sent a Belarusian communications satellite into space, and will also help the country with its commercial sensing satellites. (File photo) China's Y-20 to be put into military use in 2016, experts say China's own domestically built military cargo jet Y-20 (File photo) China's own domestically built military cargo jet, Y-20, will likely be put into service in the army this year, a military expert said in an interview with People's Daily Online. According to Xu Yongling, a military expert, the test flight period for large aircraft is generally between three and five years. Since there have been no bottlenecks during development or manufacturing, the Y-20 will be put into use this year. The first flight of the Y-20 took place in 2013, making China the fourth country in the world, following the U.S., Russia and Ukraine, to develop a 200-ton military cargo jet. "This is not only progress for China's national defense industry, but also a milestone of industrial and military modernization," Xu said. The official code name of the aircraft is Kunpeng, after the mythical bird of ancient China that can fly for thousands of kilometers. However, within the Chinese aviation industry, the aircraft is more commonly known by its nickname, Chubby Girl, named by military fans for its relatively wide fuselage. Military expert Chen Hong said in an interview with People's Daily Online that the carrying capacity of the Y-20, around 60 tons, is higher than that of Russias Ilyushin Il-76, a multi-purpose four-engine turbofan strategic airlifter. The Y-20's engine, aerodynamic arrangement and combat performance are all better than those of the Russian aircraft. The cargo jet can be used to refit significant special operations platforms, as it has a long flying period and flying distance. The Y-20 is also a good choice for maritime detection and early warning, according to Chen. As for future military developments, airborne transportation depends not only on the Y-20, but also on other military cargo jets, which China may develop in the next five to ten years, according to Xu. China's own domestically built military cargo jet Y-20 (File photo) BEIJING, Feb. 29 -- China will release a plan on raising the retirement age this year to cope with pressures from a shrinking work force and an aging society, an official said on Monday. The official retirement age, which was adopted six decades ago when life expectancy was much lower, has not adapted to economic and social development, said Yin Weimin, minister of human resources and social security, at a press conference. China's retirement age is 60 for men, 55 for female white-collar workers and 50 for female blue-collar employees. The retirement ages in developed countries mostly range from 60 to 65, and even older in some countries, said Yin, adding it has been common practice to raise the retirement age worldwide. "We've already worked out a plan to postpone the retirement age, but it should be approved by the authorities before being released to solicit public opinion," he said. The policy changes in retirement age will be phased in over a long period of time, with only slight annual increases, Yin said, adding the adjustment will take into consideration different groups of workers. China is facing great challenges in dealing with a soaring senior population. The number of people aged 60 or over reached 212 million last year, accounting for 16 percent of the country's population. Female deputies walk out of the Great Hall of the People. (Photo: Peoples Daily) As the annual sessions of National Peoples Congress (NPC) and Chinese Peoples Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), also referred as the two sessions, are just around the corner, eight agendas have been laid out which can summarize the countrys policy objectives. For the Chinese people, the two major events, coming at the starting year of Chinas 13th Five-Year Plan, carry significant weight as the country enters the decisive stage in building a moderately prosperous society in all respects. No 1. The 13th Five-Year Plan Chinas 13th Five-Year Plan, a roadmap for the nation's development from 2016 to 2020, has specifically laid out its blueprint got the next 5 years. During the two sessions, deputies will demonstrate their strong determination to implement the five notions stressed by the plan, which include innovation, coordination, environmental protection, openness and sharing. They will tell the world the implementation approaches as well. No. 2 Poverty reduction campaign The policy of targeted poverty alleviation is of groundbreaking significance. Targets, enforcers and approaches of the program are to be identified during the two sessions. No. 3 Supply-side reform Promoting supply-side structural reform was first proposed by Chinese President Xi Jinping months ago. Guided by this strategy, the government will optimize Chinas economic structure through reforms that include reducing overcapacity and boosting emerging industries. Decision makers at all levels will take the two sessions as a platform to communicate experience and contribute suggestions. No. 4 Belt and Road initiative The proposal to build the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road put forward by Xi has been echoed by over 60 countries and regions along the route. As another hot topic of this years two sessions, this diplomatic priority is expected to bring more win-win results. No. 5 Possible revise on the charity law To guide and ensure a sound development of charitable causes, the Standing Committee of the NPC has deliberated the draft of the charity law twice. The public are concerned about whether the law will be further amended during this years two sessions. No. 6 Reform on the judiciary system As most of the tasks of Chinas reform on the judiciary system are expected to be completed by the end of 2017, the Chinese government hopes to improve its capability in maintaining national security and social stability. Amid such a backdrop, the reports to be delivered by the Supreme Peoples Court and the Supreme Peoples Procuratorate are highly anticipated. No. 7 Green development Buzzwords like APEC Blue and Parade Blue have raised peoples awareness of green development. As Chinas policy to emphasize a balance among production, living environment and ecology wins popularity among the public, deputies believe that they shoulder the responsibility of addressing major environmental roadblocks including smog and water pollution. No. 8 Institutional anti-corruption In recent three years, Chinas anti-corruption campaign has been striving to foster a system that allows zero tolerance for corruption. At the beginning of 2016, Xi stressed to create a green political eco-system in his New Years message. The 2016 NPC and CPPCC will be a window for Chinese people to examine the green eco-system. China has become the worlds largest e-tail market, with revenue estimates as high as 4 trillion yuan for 2015, up 33.3 percent from 2014, according to statistics provided by the Ministry of Commerce. The rapid development of express delivery augments the success of the Chinese e-tail market, encouraging consumption and reshaping the industry. China's express delivery volume ranks first in the world, with 20.6 billion deliveries made last year, up 48 percent from the previous year. Annual express deliveries per capita in 2015 increased to 15 pieces, up from less than four pieces in 2011. The growing express delivery capacity not only stimulates consumption, it also provides space for many other Internet Plus services such as on-call laundry, online grocery shopping and more. In just a few years, express delivery companies have expanded their distribution, increased transportation vehicles, and some have even bought aircraft. Enterprise information systems also continue to undergo upgrades. According to statistics from Cainiao, Alibaba's logistics arm, during the November 11 online shopping holiday, which is also known as "Singles Day" in China, courier companies delivered 240 million T-mall parcels in just eight days, which was eight days shorter than in 2014. Companies are now providing wider geographic coverage and denser outlets in e-commerce business delivery, which makes online shopping more attractive. Last year, 45,000 new express delivery stations were built in rural and remote areas of the country. Same-day delivery is available for many cities in China, and inter-province shipments now take less than three days. Customers can even track the position of their parcels through apps on their smartphones. A train stops at the entrance of the Qamchiq Tunnel on the AngrenPap railway line in Uzbekistan on Feb. 27. (Photo/Xinhua) Qamchiq Tunnel on the AngrenPap railway line in Uzbekistan.(Photo/Xinhua) A ribbon-cutting ceremony was held at the exit of the Qamchiq Tunnel in northeast Uzbekistan on Feb. 27. China Railway Tunnel Group has finished construction of the Qamchiq Tunnel, the longest in Central Asia, on the AngrenPap railway line in Uzbekistan. The Qamchiq Tunnel covers a length of 19.2 kilometers. The total length of the excavated part is 47 kilometers. As the longest tunnel in Central Asia, its construction was undoubtedly the most difficult part of whole railway project, which has stumped engineering companies around the world. However, China Railway Tunnel Group cracked the hard nut. The company has signed a $455 million construction contract with the project management side. All new construction will adhere to Chinese standards. Sun Lijie, Chinese Ambassador to Uzbekistan, said that Qamchiq Tunnel is not only the largest non-research-related cooperative project between China and Uzbekistan, it is also a successful example of Chinese production capacity in the region. Because of the complicated geological fault, construction teams encountered frequent rock bursts when blasting the mountain. During construction, moderate rock bursts occurred more than 3,000 times. The most serious rock burst caused the collapse of nearly 2,000 cubic meters, which constituted a great safety threat for construction workers. China Railway Tunnel Group organized a meeting of international rock burst experts and developed scientific methods to tackle the problem. Construction workers also received training about what to do in case of an accident. During the whole construction process, not a single construction worker was injured by the rock burst. Chinese technology thus overcame a very serious obstacle. Difficult weather conditions were another big obstacle faced by the construction workers. Temperatures reached minus 40 degrees Celsius in the winter. In January 2014, a rare, heavy snow lasted for two weeks, which caused an avalanche in the mountains near the tunnel. Eight meters of snow completely blocked the transportation channel for production and living materials. Using large machinery, the workers labored for three days and nights to re-open the channel. With the creative efforts of Chinese workers, tunnel construction was also realized with "Chinese speed." From start to completion, it took just 900 days to excavate a total length of 47 kilometers. The project was ahead of schedule by nearly 100 days, which set a new record for China overseas construction. As more Chinese public called for blue sky, environmental protection and ecological civilization construction will continue to dominate the agendas of Chinas upcoming two sessions. The topic also triggered wide attention in the sessions of local governments. The annual session of Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), the countrys top national advisory body, will open on March 3, and the meeting of the National People's Congress (NPC), the top legislative body, will begin on March 5. In recent years, the Chinese public showed a decreasing tolerance of smog and environmental pollution. The pictures of blue skies posted on social media and the buzzwords like APEC Blue and Parade Blue, coined after anti-smog measures were taken during major Beijing events, reveal such trends. APEC Blue pictures posted by a Web user on Weibo, a Chinese microblogging site. The photo was taken on September 3, 2015, when China held a parade to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese Peoples War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War in Tiananmen Square. (Photo: Li Ge from Peoples Daily) In December last year, Beijing issued a red alert for smog twice. School closures and driving restrictions across the city were triggered by the alert. For the sake of a cleaner sky, rules have been introduced in many cities to curb the traditional custom of lighting firecrackers during the Spring Festival. Amid the growing concerns, many local governments, in their recently-concluded provincial two sessions, prioritized environmental protection and ecological civilization by launching detailed measures they will take from 2016 to 2020. The central government also made great efforts in recent years to alleviate environmental woes. The new Environmental Protection Law that took effect in 2015 is one of such efforts. The implementation of the new law, described as the toughest one in Chinas history, boosts the publics expectation for blue sky. The new law explicitly stipulates the obligation of all business and people to protect the environment. It also clarified the tough responsibility of local governments. Chen Jining, head of the Ministry of Environmental Protection (MEP), said at a press conference that previous punishments against those business violating the rules are not tough enough, adding that tougher measures were introduced in the new law. The law was strictly implemented last year. The MEP summoned 15 senior officials at city level for reluctance in environmental administration. It also worked with other departments to summon heads of local governments over the protection of the nature reserve zones. As of the end of 2015, environmental authorities at all levels had issued punishments in 97,000 cases, collecting 4.25 billion yuan ($650 million) in fines, increasing 34% year-on-year. As a focus of the Chinese government, the ecological civilization construction echoed with the publics demands. During the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), China listed it as a priority in economic development by stating that China will work for sustainable development by giving priority to ecological progress. Moreover, Chinas 13th Five-Year Plan, a roadmap for the nation's development from 2016 to 2020, also contains the phrase green development. As a result, Chinas devotion to the ecological civilization construction also wins worldwide praise. Dan Dudek, vice president for Asia of Environmental Defense Fund (EDF), a US-based nonprofit environmental advocacy group, hailed Chinese leaders strong determination to cope with environmental woes. It is extraordinary for the CPC to write the ecological civilization into the Constitution, Nirj Deva, chairman of the EU-China Friendship Group of the European Parliament told the Peoples Daily. A Japanese scholar added that thanks to the top priority given by the Chinese leaders to environment, China will soon embrace blue skies. (File photo) Sharing economy platforms have created a market worth 1.95 trillion yuan in 2015, according to the latest report released by the National Information Center in Beijing on Feb. 28. There were a total of 50 million sharing business providers in China and more than 500 million participating consumers, according to the center's report- "2016 Development Report of China's Sharing Economy." The sharing economy satisfies a variety of needs by integrating and publicizing scattered and idle resources. In addition to taxi-hailing apps such as Didi, sustainable innovations in products, space and labor services have promoted the birth of new platforms, said Yang Yixin, the deputy secretary of China's Internet Association. China's sharing economy will grow at an annual rate of 40 percent in the next five years, and will account for more than 10 percent of China's GDP by 2020, said Zhang Xinhong, an employee at the National Information Center. Li Jianhua, chief development officer of Didi, said the service received 1.43 billion calls in 2015, and the figure is expected to double in 2016. China is becoming the world's largest sharing economy, playing the role of international pioneer. The report forecast that five to 10 enterprises with similar values and influences to Didi will establish themselves in China in the next decade. This article was edited and translated from . Source: Xinhua. Author: Li Zhengwei, Lu Dong. Chinese character of Double Happiness was seen in a rape flowers field in Santai County in southwest Chinas Sichuan province on February 26, 2016. The purple plants-formed calligraphy covers an area of 2000 square meters and stands distinctively in the green field. According to the head of Santai County, the calligraphy was to commemorate a touching love story between a famous Chinese song writer and his lover that both once lived in the village. Double Happiness (or Shuangxi, in Chinese) is a traditional Chinese ornament design, composed of two Chinese characters Xi which means joy and happiness. The Double Happiness is commonly used as a decoration in Chinese wedding ceremonies to wish people a good marriage. Pictured by tourists visiting the Temple of Heaven in Beijing on 28 February, 2016. The Temple of Heaven, also known as the Altar of Heaven, is a medieval complex of religious buildings situated in the southeastern part of central Beijing. The complex was visited by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for good harvest. This beautiful altar is also renowned for its distinctive circular structure. My Favorite Quotes Recent Quotes Portfolio Summary Your most recently viewed tickers will automatically show up here if you type a ticker in the Get Quotes box on the top of the page. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Azad Hasanli - Trend: The groundbreaking ceremony for the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) is expected to take place in late May-early June 2016 in Greek city of Thessaloniki, TAP Managing Director Ian Bradshaw said Feb. 29. He made the remarks during the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting. Bradshaw said that TAP achieved big progress in Greece, adding that the deliveries of pipes into the country will be carried out by end of April 2016, while the pipe-laying activity will begin in the middle of 2016. Meanwhile, the delivery of pipelines to Albania and their laying there will start at approximately the same time, according to Bradshaw. Energy ministers of the Southern Gas Corridor member states and representatives of different structures, as well as the EU Commission Vice-President for Energy Union are participating at the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting in Baku. TAP will transport natural gas from the giant Shah Deniz II field in Azerbaijan to Europe. The approximately 870 km long TAP will connect with the Trans Anatolian Pipeline (TANAP) at the Turkish-Greek border at Kipoi, cross Greece and Albania and the Adriatic Sea, before coming ashore in Southern Italy. TAP's shareholding is comprised of BP (20 percent), SOCAR (20 percent), Snam S.p.A (20 percent), Fluxys (19 percent), Enagas (16 percent) and Axpo (five percent). --- Follow the author on Twitter: @AzadHasanli Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Anakhanum Khidayatova - Trend: Georgia is not in talks on the purchase of Iranian gas for now because of high prices, Deputy Prime Minister and Georgian Energy Minister Kakha Kaladze told Trend in Baku Feb. 29. Kaladze is participating in the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting. The energy ministers and representatives of various organizations from the Southern Gas Corridor member-states, including vice-president of the European Commission for Energy Union, are participating in the meeting as well. Three plenary sessions and a round table will be held as part of the meeting. "Transportation of Iranian gas to Georgia is possible via two ways, through the territory of Azerbaijan or Armenia, however, the Iranian gas prices are not competitive, so the issue on the purchase of Iranian gas can only be discussed in the future," Kaladze said. In the future, transportation of Iranian gas will be possible through the territory of Azerbaijan, the minister said. Alireza Kameli, the head of the National Iranian Gas Export Company (NIGEC), said after meeting Kaladze in Tehran on Feb. 16 that Iran is considering a plan to export 200 million cubic meters of gas to Georgia in a course of seven months. He further said that Tehran and Tbilisi would consider signing a long-term deal, if they find a short-term gas deal economically justified. Iran plans to increase gas production to 1.1 billion cubic meters per day by 2018. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Anahanum Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 Trend: Following the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting in Baku Feb. 29, the participants of the meeting have signed a joint declaration. The document emphasized the intention to develop and deepen prolonged strategic relations between the producers of energy resources, transit countries and consumers for reliable, secure and consistent provision of European markets with energy resources of Azerbaijan. The document was signed by 12 ministers who took part in the meeting in the presence of Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini, including Vice-President of the European Commission for Energy Union Maros Sefcovic. The document also approved carrying out of legal procedures and regulative measures by these countries for implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project. It was noted that existing and future opportunities for the expansion of the project beyond the EU, including the Balkans will be evaluated. For this purpose, a special interest is shown for projects of Greece-Bulgaria and the Ionian Adriatic Pipeline interconnectors. At the same time, the document supported strengthening of cooperation with national and international financial institutions to finance the project. In order to resolve issues that may arise in connection with the involvement of new suppliers or transit countries, it is proposed to continue consultations at the level of bilateral and multilateral working groups. The second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting was held in Baku on Feb. 29. The energy ministers and representatives of various organizations from the Southern Gas Corridor member-states were participating in the meeting as well. Maros Sefcovic, Vice-President for Energy Union, Berat Albayrak, Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Amos Hochstein, US Special Envoy for Energy Affairs of the US Department of State, Edmund Hosker, Director General for International Energy Issues of the UK Energy and Climate Change Department, Claudio De Vincenti, State Secretary of the Council of Ministers of the Italian Republic and others were also participating in the event. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Seba Aghayeva - Trend: The European Union is supporting Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and sovereignty, said Federica Mogherini, the EU's high representative for foreign affairs and security policy, at a briefing in Baku Feb. 29. She added that the peaceful settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict in line with international law remains a top priority for the EU. Mogherini also said the OSCE Minsk Group is the format, which was agreed upon by all the parties and approved by the UN Security Council. Negotiations as part of the Minsk Group are intended for reaching an agreement on practical steps that should be taken for the conflict's comprehensive settlement, she noted. The EU will continue to support all the actions aimed at peace-building and establishment of direct contacts between the two peoples separated by the conflict, she added. There is no contradiction between these activities and the Minsk Group's efforts - both of them are important for a long-term reconciliation, said Mogherini. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. The two countries signed a ceasefire agreement in 1994. The co-chairs of the OSCE Minsk Group, Russia, France and the US are currently holding peace negotiations. Armenia has not yet implemented the UN Security Council's four resolutions on withdrawal of its armed forces from the Nagorno-Karabakh and the surrounding districts. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Asebaa Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 Trend: Poland's former presidents Aleksander Kwasniewski and Bronislaw Komorowski will attend the IV Global Baku Forum March 10, Azerbaijan's State Committee on Work with Diaspora told Trend. Kwasniewski, who is a member of the Nizami Ganjavi International Center, also took part in the III Global Baku Forum. Aleksander Kwasniewski was president of Poland from 1995 to 2005, Bronislaw Komorowski - from 2010 to 2015. The IV Global Baku Forum, organized by the Nizami Ganjavi International Center and supported by the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, will be held March 10-11 in Baku. The forum will be titled "Towards a Multipolar World". A number of issues of global concern, as well as the role of interreligious dialogue in conflict prevention, issues of migration, multiculturalism and integration, prospects for energy and global governance and other important issues will be discussed at the forum, and an exchange of views on finding solutions to these problems will be held. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 Trend: The second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting has started in Baku on Feb. 29. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev is participating in the meeting. The energy ministers and representatives of various organizations from the Southern Gas Corridor member-states are participating in the meeting as well. Maros Sefcovic, Vice-President for Energy Union, Berat Albayrak, Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Amos Hochstein, US Special Envoy for Energy Affairs of the US Department of State, Edmund Hosker, Director General for International Energy Issues of the UK Energy and Climate Change Department, Claudio De Vincenti, State Secretary of the Council of Ministers of the Italian Republic and others are also participating in the event. Three plenary sessions and a round table will be held as part of the meeting. Sefcovic and Natig Aliyev, Azerbaijani energy minister will make statements for the press. Baku, Azerbaijan Feb.29 Trend: Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev has received the delegation led by the Special Envoy and Coordinator for International Energy Affairs of the US State Department Amos Hochstein. Ilham Aliyev said that the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council being held in Baku, is a successful format for holding joint discussions on the project's implementation. Highlighting the significance of the US government's support to the project, President Aliyev emphasized the importance of Hochstein's participation in this event. Azerbaijan's president expressed hope that this event will bring good results. Amos Hochstein, for his part, voiced satisfaction with the invitation to the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council. Stressing the effectiveness of last year's meeting, he said that the ongoing event is very significant in this important period for the project. Hochstein added that the meeting has created a good opportunity to exchange views on various issues related to the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 Trend: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy of Georgia Kakha Kaladze Feb. 29. The sides hailed the high level of Azerbaijani-Georgian energy projects, and pointed to the successful realization of the Southern Gas Corridor. They hailed the successful implementation of joint projects between the two countries not only in energy sector, but in a number of other areas. It was emphasized that the two countries would continue their cooperation as strategic partners. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 Trend: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev received Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Berat Albayrak Feb. 29. The sides expressed their satisfaction with the highest level of friendly and fraternal relations between the two countries in all fields, including energy sector. They hailed the successful implementation of TANAP project in accordance with the schedule, and also exchanged views on cooperation prospects. Baku, Azerbaijan Feb. 29 Trend: The second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting kicked off in Baku on Feb. 29. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has attended the meeting. He emphasized the significance of holding this event and added that it will focus on the work done in previous years and future tasks. The president noted that high-level and successful coordination work was carried out between the project's participants following the last year's meeting. President Aliyev recalled that the groundbreaking ceremony for TANAP project was held in 2015 and added that this project plays an important role in the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor. He noted that the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project will make it possible to even more expand the beneficial cooperation between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey and other countries. Today, energy security holds an important place in world politics and on the agenda of international organizations, according to Azerbaijan's president. He noted that Azerbaijan remains committed to all its obligations and even more develops the principles of market economy. Ilham Aliyev said that energy cooperation can't be a political requirement and this issue should be free of any political format. Azerbaijan has created a strong cooperation between the project's participants and this cooperation will create opportunities to achieve success in other spheres of economy as well, according to Ilham Aliyev. The president added that energy security plays an important role in relations with the European Union. The president added that delays and obstacles in the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project should be prevented. In order to overcome all obstacles, it is necessary to combine the efforts of the governments, according to Azerbaijan's president. The implementation of TANAP project is in an active stage, said President Aliyev and expressed confidence that the TAP project will also be implemented in time. The Southern Gas Corridor is the historic project of the 21st century, said the president and expressed gratitude to the governments for the contribution to the project's implementation. Further, addressing the event, Azerbaijan's Energy Minister Natig Aliyev said that President Aliyev's support to the project's implementation creates opportunities for carrying out even more effective work. The European Commission's Vice-President for Energy Union Maros Sefcovic, for his part, talked about the importance of delivering natural resources from the Caspian Sea to European markets. The European Union considers the energy security as an important issue, he said, adding that there is a great interest in the Southern Gas Corridor project in South-Eastern Europe and Balkan states. Sefcovic also praised the interest and support to the Southern Gas Corridor by international financial organizations and noted that the EU supports this project. The second meeting of the Advisory Council continued after a short break. Energy Minister Natig Aliyev spoke about the work done as part of the realization of the Southern Gas Corridor, which is a complex project from the technical point of view. He noted that the gas to be transported by the Southern Gas Corridor will play an important role in providing European countries with this fuel. Emphasizing the great interest by such major European countries as France, Spain, Italy and Greece in this project, the energy minister said this project's implementation will make it possible to create new jobs. Further, Turkey's Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Berat Albayrak talked about the importance of TANAP, which is a part of the Southern Gas Corridor project. He noted that Turkey will continue to provide political, economic and technical assistance in this project's implementation. The US State Department's special envoy and coordinator for international energy affairs, Amos Hochstein said for his part that the Southern Gas Corridor project plays an important role in Europe's energy security. Talking about the difficulties in the energy security sector and the ways of overcoming them, Hochstein said that the US will continue to support this project. Director General for International Energy Affairs at the UK Department of Energy and Climate Change Edmund Hosker congratulated Azerbaijani government with organization of the meeting. Noting that the UK supports the Southern Gas Corridor project, Hosker talked about the successful cooperation between his country and Azerbaijan. He further emphasized Azerbaijan's role in the project's implementation. BP's Regional President for Azerbaijan, Georgia and Turkey Gordon Birrell said that all the goals regarding the Southern Gas Corridor will be reached on the schedule and 2016 will be an important period in the project's implementation. Further, the event continued with demonstration of footage showing progress in the TANAP project's implementation. Managing director of the TAP project Ian Bradshaw said for his part that the pipeline's construction will start in 2016. He also talked about the work done within the project. Moreover, Director General of the Southern Gas Corridor Closed Joint-Stock Company Afgan Isayev, Director General of Private Sector Operations Department of the Asian Development Bank Todd Freeland, representative of the European Investment Bank Group Massimo d'Eufemia, head of the Baku resident office of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development Neil McKain, and Regional Manager of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for the South Caucasus Jan van Bilsen talked about the strategic importance of the Southern Gas Corridor project. Baku, Azerbaijan, March 1 Trend: President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev and High Representative of the EU, Vice-President of the European Commission Federica Mogherini held an expanded meeting. The head of state said Federica Mogherini`s visit created a good opportunity for looking through the important issues of cooperation between Azerbaijan and the EU. President Ilham Aliyev thanked Federica Mogherini for attending the closing ceremony of the second Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council in Baku. The head of state said Azerbaijan-EU cooperation was at an important stage now, stressing the importance of defining future plans of this collaboration. The head of state said there was mutual interest in increasing the level of partnership and expanding ties, pointing to the existence of mutual understanding in this regard. President Ilham Aliyev noted the significance of President of the European Council Donald Tusk`s visit to the country last year. The head of state also emphasized the importance of his discussions on future cooperation plans with EU Commissioner for the European Neighbourhood Policy and Enlargement Negotiations Johannes Hahn when they recently met in Munich. President Ilham Aliyev expressed his hope that Azerbaijan and the EU would elaborate a cooperation format for establishing long-term and fruitful partnership that would cover various fields. Touching upon Federica Mogherini`s speech at the second Ministerial Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council, the head of state emphasized the importance of conflict resolution, political reforms, economic cooperation, energy security, especially financial security in the region. High Representative of the EU, Vice-President of the European Commission Federica Mogherini expressed gratitude for high-level organization of the Meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council. Federica Mogherini described this as a good indicator of cooperation between Azerbaijan and the EU. She said cooperation between Azerbaijan and the EU would be continued in a new format, adding there was a firm legal base for this. Federica Mogherini said Azerbaijan is in a complex region, underlining the significance of elevating the partnership between the country and the EU to a strategic level to ensure the interests of both sides. They also discussed the current state and prospects of negotiations to solve the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, and exchanged views on other issues of cooperation. The meeting then continued in a one-on-one format. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 Trend: The meeting with Mehriban Valiyeva, honored teacher, the superintendent of the lyceum named after Academician Zarifa Aliyeva and a group of teachers and students of the mentioned lyceum was held at BHOS. BHOS rector Elmar Gasimov heartily welcomed guests stating that the lyceum was the educational center combining high standard educational and training peculiarities. BHOS rector expressed his contentment connected with the students studying in various profile specialization at BHOS being graduates of the said lyceum. Thanking the superintendent of the lyceum Mehriban Valiyeva, Elmar Gasimov emphasized the availability of professional teaching staff and very well educated graduates of the lyceum. Speaking about the role of the secondary schools in fostering the spirit of patriotism and love for national values, Elmar Gasimov said that the works carried out at the lyceum had the similar orientation. BHOS rector said he was convinced that the collaboration between BHOS and lyceum named after Zarifa Aliyeva would continue on. Elmar Gasimov also stressed that with such graduates as BHOS students the lyceum managed to highly honor the name of Academician Zarifa Aliyeva. Elmar Gasimov wished teachers and students every success. Superintendent of the lyceum named after Zarifa Aliyeva Mehriban Valiyeva extended her gratitude to BHOS management stressing that owing to its authority BHOS turned to be distinctive higher educational institution. She was particularly pleased about the fact that the graduates of the lyceum justified the hopes of the higher school with their high level performances. Expressing her confidence that the mentioned students would continue to be successful at BHOS Mehriban Valiyeva said she was glad they were studying at this very higher educational institutions. The graduates of the lyceum and now BHOS students as well as students currently studying at the lyceum held view exchange and questions and answers session was held. In conclusion Elmar Gasimov granted Mehriban Valiyeva honorary certificate for her merit in development of cooperation between the lyceum named after Zarifa Aliyeva and BHOS. Tehran, Iran, February 28 By Mehdi Sepahvand - Trend: Around 15:00 on February 28, Iranian Minister of Industry, Mine and Trade Mohammad Reza Nematzadeh inaugurated the country's auto industry exhibition in Tehran. The ceremony was initially set for 11:00, but dragged to 15:00 one hour by one hour, giving a go to a showoff of one of the country's biggest non-indigenous industries. But the tardiness does not stop there, rather the whole industry seems not intent to make a move even with economic sanctions lifted. Now, the talk is only about importing parts from other countries and assembling them inside the country for the local market. It seems there is no show of any move to genuinely make the industry indigenous. "Car making per say is not the case here. What is being promoted is an industry that only assembles parts together," Shahrokh, a car connoisseur told Trend on the sidelines of the exhibition. Car makers were among the quickest Iranian companies to seize the moment to sign deals with foreigners after Iran was freed from economic sanctions on January 16. Ebrahim Doostzadeh, engineering CEO at Samfar Co. said that Iran's car industry, like other industries, is threatened by China, which offers low-price products thanks mostly to its low labor wages. Giant car-making Iran-Khodro accompanied President Hassan Rouhani to France in his first post-sanctions European tour to sign a big deal with Peugeot and tighten its grip on the Iranian market with prospects of importing three versions of Peugeot in one year. What was interesting was that none of the officials of companies affiliated to Iran-Khodro were willing to talk to the press "because they had been told not to give interviews." They all were lodged in one hall of the fairground and talked of a unified management network. The fairground is full of vehicles that are put together in the country's vast assemblage industry, yet it is officially called a show of national abilities. Nader Farrokh, board member of Azin Khodro Co., whose company imports parts including from Renault, said his company is seeking to import more parts if the domestic assemblage factories so demand. Iranians used to look with sighs at how quality cars their kinds from neighbor countries used to ride even before sanctions crippled the industry. Now, they can expect more modern cars, but not a modern national car production industry. ------ Mehdi Sepahvand is Trend Agency's Tehran-based reporter. Follow him on Twitter @mehdisepahvand Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Aygun Badalova - Trend: Maros Sefcovic, the EU Commission Vice-President for Energy Union, is participating in the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting, being held in Baku Feb. 29. On his Twitter account, Sefcovic said he was glad to be back in Baku for the Southern Gas Corridor meeting, also underlining the key importance of the project to Europe's energy security. Sefcovic welcomed progress, achieved on this strategic infrastructure project over past year. The Southern Gas Corridor project envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Azad Hasanli - Trend: Azerbaijan is fully committed to funding obligations as part of the Southern Gas Corridor (SGC), said Afgan Isayev, chief executive director at the Southern Gas Corridor CJSC. Isayev made the remarks at the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council in Baku on Feb. 29. "We are now in talks with prominent financial institutions, which are present here in terms of financing some sub-projects included in the Southern Gas Corridor," he added. He noted that despite the global economic challenges faced by commodity exporting countries, the economy of Azerbaijan continues to be resuming. Isayev said that economic diversification remains core policy objective and new reforms will spear the continuing development of the non-oil sector. "The government will continue to announce new reforms in this area," he added. The Southern Gas Corridor project envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Azad Hasanli - Trend: Azerbaijan will additionally supply 500 million cubic meters (mcm) of gas a year to Georgia, according to Rovnag Abdullayev, president of Azerbaijan's state oil company SOCAR. Abdullayev made the remarks speaking to Trend at the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council in Baku Feb. 29. "Previously, we supplied 800 mcm of gas a year to Georgia from the Shah Deniz," he said. "We have managed to increase the supply through that route to 1.5 billion cubic meters (bcm), as well as to 1.5 bcm via a pipeline connecting the two countries in Azerbaijan's Gazakh district." He also said that at present, there is an opportunity to additionally obtain 500 to 700 mcm of gas from the Shah Deniz consortium. "We can use a part of that gas volume in Azerbaijan and supply another part to Georgia and Turkey," added Abdullayev. "Earlier, we weren't able technically to increase gas supply to Georgia," he said. "We then talked to the Shah Deniz consortium. As a result, the supply in winter and summer periods will stand at 70 percent to 30 percent ratio (earlier 60 percent to 40 percent ratio)." Georgia's annual gas consumption stands at 2.4 bcm. Some 750 to 800 mcm of the gas is being supplied from the Shah Deniz field to Georgia annually, 1.4 bcm by SOCAR, and 200 mcm by Russia. Azerbaijan exports gas to Georgia via a pipeline linking the two countries in the Azerbaijani district of Gazakh. This pipeline can pump more than 2.5 bcm of gas a year. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Azad Hasanli - Trend: The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) is considering financing of TAP (Trans Adriatic Pipeline) and TANAP (Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline) as part of the Southern Gas Corridor, Neal McCain, head of the EBRD local office, said. McCain made this statement during the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting in Baku on Feb. 29. He said that the internal approval process within EBRD is moving on quickly. "The Southern Gas Corridor will clearly have an important role to play in Europe's energy security and the future of diversified economy of Azerbaijan," he said. He said that EBRD remains committed to supporting Azerbaijan in its efforts to diversify its economy. The Southern Gas Corridor project envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Aygun Badalova - Trend: The European Commission's Energy Union strategy on a more efficient use of gas is on track, the EU Commission Vice-President for Energy Union Maros Sefcovic said in a telephone interview with Trend. Sefcovic is in Baku, participating in the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting on Feb. 29. "We have presented two quite important legislative packages," he said. "First one was last year, which was very much related to the agenda of the anti-climate change, where we proposed to reform our emissions trading system." "This year we adopted the security of the gas supply package, presented with a new directive to make sure that whatever the circumstances in the future, the supply of gas would be secure for all member states," Sefcovic said. "We also presented new rules for intergovernmental agreements and commercial contracts, new LNG strategy, as well as new strategy on heating and cooling," he said. "This is where Europe consumes 50 percent of its energy, and here we would like to see more savings in the future," he added. Sefcovic went on to add that Energy Union will present additional packages on improved energy efficiency, new electricity market design, de-carbonization of transport in Europe. "We plan to deliver in all these commitments and we plan to do so, so that by the end of the second year we would be having on the table 90 percent of what we promised under the Energy Union strategy," he said. "The project has a lot of support from the member states," Sefcovic said. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 28 By Fatih Karimov- Trend: Pakistan is determined to purchase gas from Iran, Alireza Kameli, head of National Iranian Gas Exports Company said. Islamabad has never withdrawn from buying gas from Tehran, Kameli said, referring to a recent LNG contract signed between Pakistan and Qatar, Iran's ISNA news agency reported Feb. 28. He further said that Pakistan's need for gas is bigger than the contract signed with Qatar, adding Islamabad is still following other options to import gas including TAPI pipeline. Enjoying joint border with Iran is an advantage for Pakistan to receive gas in low costs, Kameli said. He emphasized that gas import through the pipeline is the most economical option in particular in the short distances. Earlier Amir Hossein Zamaninia, Iran's deputy oil minister said that Tehran supports Pakistan's policy of diversifying its gas import sources including buying much required natural gas from neighboring Iran. "We are pleased that Pakistan can diversify its energy sources basket and Iran is well situated to assist its neighbor in this regard," Zamaninia said. Pakistan said on February 10 that it had signed a 15-year agreement to import up to 3.75 million tons per year of LNG, or more than 14 million cubic meters per day (mcm/d) of natural gas from Qatar. With the supply-demand gap in Pakistan standing at approximately 2-4 billion cubic feet per day, the LNG import from Qatar would help Islamabad to meet 20 percent of its energy needs. Iran also has a contract with Islamabad to export 22 mcm/d of gas to this country, while Pakistan should have started gas intake in January 2015, but yet to start construction of pipeline on its territory. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 Trend: European Investment Bank is working closely with European Commission, the bank's official representative Massimo D'Eufemia said. He made the remarks during the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Ministerial Meeting. D'Eufemia said the European Investment Bank is attaching highest consideration to the timely realization of the Southern Gas Corridor. "As all the participants have stated, this project is key infrastructure for the region and also for Europe," D'Eufemia said, adding that the Southern Gas Corridor will secure new energy sources to Europe, a well as announce new competition in the gas market. Massimo D'Eufemia further said that during the last year, the European Investment Bank closely worked with both TANAP and TAP and is focusing its efforts on these two projects. "We also want to assure that there will be EIB's long-term funds and resources for successful completion of these projects, and we're also considering to finance the other components of the Southern Gas Corridor," he said. The Southern Gas Corridor project envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. Baku, Azerbaijan Feb.29 By Azad Hasanli - Trend: The Southern Gas Corridor is a landmark strategic project to open up gas supplies to new markets and contributing to energy security of the Southern-East Europe, Jan van Bilsen, regional manager of the International Finance Corporation (IFC) for the South Caucasus, said. He made the remarks during the second ministerial meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council in Baku Feb.29. Bilsen noted that the IFC has not made an investment decision yet concerning the Southern Gas Corridor project. "We welcome an opportunity to participate in this meeting and to understand the potential role which IFC could play in the project," he added. The Southern Gas Corridor project envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. Baku, Azerbaijan Feb.29 By Anakhanum Khidayatova - Trend: The Southern Gas Corridor project is of strategic importance for Italy, for the whole Europe and Azerbaijan itself, State Secretary of the Council of Ministers of Italy Claudio De Vincenti said in an exclusive interview with Trend in Baku Feb. 29. De Vincenti is on a visit to Baku to participate in the second meeting of ministers of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council. He said it is a very useful and important meeting, adding that representatives of all countries interested in the Southern Gas Corridor project, are participating in this event. "Azerbaijan has a key role in Europe's energy security," he said, adding that diversification of sources is the priority and from this point of view, the priority number one is the connection with the Azerbaijan gas. The Southern Gas Corridor is one of the priority energy projects for EU. It envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @Anahanum Baku, Azerbaijan Feb.29 By Azad Hasanli - Trend: The implementation of the Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline (TANAP) project gave considerable impetus to the implementation of other energy projects, Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Berat Albayrak said. He made the remarks during the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council in Baku Feb.29. Albayrak added that the implementation of the TANAP project has been accelerated. Turkey, as before, will provide any political and economic assistance in the implementation of TANAP which is a part of the Southern Gas Corridor, according to the Turkish minister. The Southern Gas Corridor is one of the priority energy projects for EU. It envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. Baku, Azerbaijan Feb.29 By Azad Hasanli - Trend: The Southern Gas Corridor project is a form of true diversification of Europe's energy security, said the Special Envoy and Coordinator for International Energy Affairs of the US State Department Amos Hochstein. He made the remarks during a press conference held following the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council in Baku Feb. 29. While there are announcements from the energy sector companies on capital expenditure reductions, the private and government sectors confirm commitment to continue the Southern Gas Corridor project, said Hochstein. "That is a strong statement of importance of this project that is going to be completed on time in this environment of the energy markets," he added. "The only way to resolve the energy security is through diversification," he said. "More projects that simply bring the same gas from the same fields to the same consumers, although through a new pipe, will not contribute to energy security." "That is why I am thinking it is better for consumers in Europe to focus on funding new courses of gas rather than discussing ideas that simply bring the same gas," Hochstein said. For every project, it is important to look if it is a political project or economic project, said the US State Department's special envoy. The South Stream, Turkish Stream, Nord Stream are simply restating political projects that have questionable economic value, especially in this market conditions, he added. The Southern Gas Corridor is one of the priority energy projects for EU. It envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. Baku, Azerbaijan Feb.29 Trend: Delegation headed by the Chairman of the National Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI) Committee and the Executive Director of the State Oil Fund of the Republic of Azerbaijan Shahmar Movsumov participated at the VII EITI Global Conference held on February 24-25, 2016 in Lima, Peru. During the Conference EITI Board held 32nd and 33rd meetings. Besides, Board members made amendments to EITI Standard and accepted two countries (Dominican Republic and Federal Republic of Germany) as Candidate countries. Thus, number of EITI implementing countries increased up to 51. 4 countries (Democratic Republic of Congo, Ghana, Mongolia and Philippines) were awarded with the 2016 EITI Award. During the Conference new members of the EITI Board and the new Chairman of the EITI Board, Fredrik Reinfeldt were presented to the participants. SOFAZ Executive Director Movsumov participated in the panel "Improving governance in an era of low commodity prices" and gave a speech about Azerbaijan experience in this field. At the same time Azerbaijani delegation took part in National Expo held in the framework of the VII Global Conference in Lima. Video and photo materials about Azerbaijan, brochures, booklets and reports on EITI implementation in Azerbaijan and souvenirs were submitted to the conference participants. EITI is a special multilateral and voluntary initiative, supported by a coalition of companies, governments, investors and civil society organizations and global standard for improved transparency in the oil, gas and mining sector. Azerbaijan joined EITI in 2003. Azerbaijan was awarded the "2009 EITI Award" for its commitment to EITI principles and criteria and achievements in EITI Implementation. Baku, Azerbaijan Feb. 29 By Azad Hasanli - Trend: The Southern Gas Corridor is an important project in ensuring energy security, Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Berat Albayrak said. He made the remarks during the press conference following the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council in Baku Feb. 29. The minister said Turkey strongly supports the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project. Albayrak also thanked Azerbaijan for holding the meetings of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council. The Southern Gas Corridor is one of the priority energy projects for EU. It envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijan's Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Khalid Kazimov - Trend: Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif is expected to visit six Asia and the Pacific countries as of March.5. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, Hossein Jaber Ansari said that Zarif's trips are aimed at taking advantage of the chances created for the country following the removal of international sanctions, IRNA news agency reported. Jaber Ansari further added that Zarif is expected to first arrive in Jakarta, Indonesia to attend a summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Member nations of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) will attend the organization's fifth extraordinary summit in Jakarta on March 6 -7 to discuss the Palestinian crisis. The foreign minister heading a large economic delegation is also expected to visit Thailand, Brunei, New Zealand, Singapore and Australia to discuss expansion of bilateral ties. Following the implementation of a nuclear agreement between Iran and the world powers a number of world leaders have visited Tehran aimed at the expansion of bilateral ties. Over the past decade in a bid to curb Iran's nuclear program, the international community took measures against Tehran, including restrictions imposed on the country's financial system, as well as industry, which have had a catastrophic impact on Iranians' economic situation and life conditions. Following the long-awaited nuclear deal clinched between Tehran and the world major powers most of the international sanctions against Tehran were lifted on Jan. 16. Tehran, Iran, February 29 By Mehdi Sepahvand - Trend: The recent MoUs signed between the Republic of Azerbaijan and Iran in recent days can best be described as momentous, Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Islamic Republic of Iran Javanshir Akhundov believes. The ambassador presented Trend with an article, expressing his views on the signed agreements. Below is the text of the article: On Feb. 23 President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev concluded his official visit to the Islamic Republic of Iran which took place on the invitation of President Hassan Rouhani. This high level official visit, which resulted in conclusion of 11 documents covering various areas of cooperation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and Islamic Republic of Iran preordained development of bilateral relations between friendly and brotherly countries of Azerbaijan and Iran for several decades in advance. This visit and signed documents pave way for new opportunities in future cooperation of the two countries. First of all, I would like to underline that each of the signed documents covers specific area and contributes to reinvigoration and enhancement of partnership frameworks between Azerbaijan and Iran into a more specific and target-oriented level. I would like to elaborate on some of the documents. I think it would be pertinent to use a word momentous for the "Framework Agreement between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran on the coordination of railways of Azerbaijan and Iran" and "The Agreement between Azerbaijan Railways CSC and the Islamic Republic of Iran Railways on construction of a railway bridge over the Astara river on Azerbaijan-Iran state border" which is directly linked to the framework agreement. For a long time, there was a need to connect railways between our countries. I would like to remind that during the Soviet Union there was a railway between Azerbaijan and Iran, unfortunately as a result of the occupation of Azerbaijani territories by Armenia during Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno Karabakh conflict, this railway ceased to function. Railway between Azerbaijan and Iran, which is a part of the North-South transport corridor, will contribute to economic development of Azerbaijan and Iran, as well as multiplying of goods turnover from such Iranian ports on the Persian Gulf, like Bandar Abbas, Busheher, and Chabahar. Furthermore, Northern provinces of Iran, like Western Azerbaijan, Eastern Azerbaijan, Gilan, Qazvin will be able to deliver their products to the world markets, particularly, Northern Europe, Russia, Pakistan, India, as well as Persian Gulf countries in a short period of time. Main advantage of North-South transport corridor in comparison with other routes is the fact that its transit distance and time is 3 times less and price of delivery of goods through this corridor is more competitive. Other advantages of North-South international transport corridor include the safety of the route and crossing with other international transit corridors. In general, this corridor which has annual movement of 30 million tons of goods, along with other adjacent countries (Afghanistan and others) is the most effective logistic solution from the point of transit time and price. After finalizing Iran-Azerbaijan railways coordination, Iran will be able to get benefits of Baku-Tbilisi-Kars railway and provide for economically more beneficial goods transportation from the south of Iran to Europe. All the above mentioned will contribute to the development of our countries with the aim of increasing prosperity of our peoples. By the way, I would also like to mention Nakhchivan-Julfa-Tabriz-Tehran-Mashhad line, which will facilitate improving economy of Nakhchivan which is under the blockade due to the occupation of Azerbaijani territories by Armenia. President Hassan Rouhani also noted that connection of Astara(Iran)-Astara (Azerbaijan) railways will open a new page in economic relations of two countries. Another agreement of significant importance is "The Framework Agreement on the sale of electric power between the Government of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran". As a result of this agreement electricity system of not only Azerbaijan and Iran, but also of Russia, Georgia, as well as South Asia will be diversified and a common electricity network of the region will be established. Discussions to this end were underway for a long time, since Azerbaijan has necessary powerful facilities for it. During the official visit of President Ilham Aliyev to the Islamic Republic of Iran on February 23, in accordance with the instruction from both of the heads of states the text of the Agreement "On Cooperation in the field of continuation of the construction and operation of "Khudaferin" and "Giz Galasi" hydro-junctions and hydroelectric power plants on the Araz River, the use of energy and water resources" was agreed and the Agreement was signed. The document was signed by Shahin Mustafayev, Minister of Economy of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Mahmoud Vaezi, Minister of Communications and Information of the Islamic Republic of Iran. The principles of respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran were declared, the importance of the restoration of territorial integrity of Azerbaijan in accordance with the resolutions of the United Nations, as well as equal rights of both parties to all water and energy resources along "Khudaferin" and "Giz Galasi" hydro-junctions was stressed in the agreement. Let me stress that signing of this important document is a bright example of rapidly developing friendly and good neighbourly relations between the Republic of Azerbaijan and Islamic Republic of Iran. "The Memorandum of Understanding between the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic and National Iranian Oil Company" and "The Memorandum of Understanding between the State Oil Company of Azerbaijan Republic and Ghadir Investment Company which were among the documents signed in the wake of the visit will intensify joint cooperation between Azerbaijan and Iran in the field of oil and gas. It is worth mentioning that Azerbaijan and Iran have been cooperating in the energy field for a long time. Other agreements, which I didn't touch comprehensively, including memorandums of understanding on cooperation between relevant structures of Azerbaijan and Iran will give their vital contribution to the closer collaboration in the sphere of social policy. As a result of discussions held at the bilateral meetings during the official visit of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan to Iran issues of significant importance were also agreed upon. As you know, for long Azerbaijan, Iran and Turkey have been conducting trilateral discussions. The first meeting of these discussions was held in Urmiya in 2011 and next meetings were held in Nakhchivan and Kars. Within this trilateral framework current level of cooperation among the countries, important issues ahead are discussed at the high level. During President Aliyev's recent visit to Iran it was discussed to broaden geography of these frameworks with the aim to contribute to deepening cooperation between the countries in the future. It is gratifying that today Iran and Azerbaijan play a role of a stabilizers in our region. Our countries pursue peace, tranquility and cooperation in the region and in the world. The president of Azerbaijan stated in his speech, that the stronger union of Azerbaijan and Iran is, the higher level of security in the region will be ensured. The presidents also discussed such broad scale issues, like the situation in the region, joint fight against terrorism, joint cooperation against rising Islamophobia in the world. Like during the visit in April of 2014, President Ilham Aliyev also had a meeting with Seyyed Ali Khameni, the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran. Broad exchange of views was carried out on the prospects of increasing cooperation ties between our countries and peoples, who have common historical, religious and cultural roots. Importance of joint efforts in ensuring security and stability in the region was stressed and the presidents' discussions to this end were underlined. It was noted that concluded agreements will serve the development of cooperation in all spheres and strengthening of ties between Azerbaijan and Iran. The course of the visit, concluded agreements, particularly meeting of the heads of the states and their statements for the press allows one to say that existing relations between neighbourly, friendly and partner countries of Iran and Azerbaijan will continue to enhance and develop steadily. Our countries share common position on many issues in the region and the world. The presidents expressed their interest in successful development of cooperation in all spheres and highly praised existing opportunities for it. During 2014-2015, 44 mutual visits by the high officials of Azerbaijan and Iran have taken place. This number clearly indicates the level of cooperation between our countries. The dynamics of cooperation between the Republic of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran once again highlight that ties between our countries are based on solid foundations and serve mutual interests. Bilateral relations between Azerbaijan and Iran improve on various areas, including political, economic, social, cultural, humanitarian, religious and others. The Republic of Azerbaijan and the Islamic Republic of Iran cooperate closely within the framework of international organizations, such as the United Nations, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Economic Cooperation Organization, Non-aligned Movement and this cooperation will continue. There is no doubt that our cooperation in political, economic, cultural and tourism areas will further improve rapidly. Usually, after such visits one calls them historic, however in some cases this appears to be more nominal. In my turn, I would like to strongly emphasize that the official visit of President Ilham Aliyev to the Islamic Republic of Iran on February 20, 2016 was indeed of historic importance. This visit preordained development of not only relations between two countries, but the region as a whole for several decades in advance. Besides, in the course of this visit significant documents on specific spheres of cooperation were signed which will contribute to the economic development of both countries and underline their geoeconomic importance in the world. Ambassador of the Republic of Azerbaijan to the Islamic Republic of Iran Javanshir Akhundov Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Umid Niayesh - Trend: All around the world, people go to polls to endow someone with some authority, but the recent elections in the 37 year-old Islamic Republic were a rare case, as the majority of those voting participated in the elections to block certain persons' way to power. Iran held elections Feb. 26 for the 10th convocation of the parliament and the fifth convocation of the Assembly of Experts. Iranian reformists entered the elections with a significantly low number of candidates, since many of their nominees were earlier disqualified by the powerful conservative Guardian Council. So, the reformists came up with a strategy to make sure that fewer hardliners get elected, supporting moderate conservatives in constituencies, where the reformists had no hope for victory. In Tehran, they invited people to vote for their candidates in order to block three powerful hardliners from being elected to the new Assembly of Experts. They are Mohammad Yazdi, who currently heads the Assembly of Experts, Mohammad Taghi Mesbah Yazdi, one of the most important hardliner ideologues, and the Guardian Council's chief Ahmad Jannati. Meanwhile, the strategy was seriously criticized by hardliners. They called the reformists' plan to prevent Jannati, Yazdi and Mesbah from getting into the assembly an "English" plot directed by the BBC. The claim was based on an article earlier published by BBC Persian analyzing the "No Campaign" strategy. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei too accused the UK of intervening in Iran's affairs, saying the BBC is giving the people of Tehran instructions to vote or not to vote for specific individuals. However, the final results of the election to the Assembly of Experts in Tehran indicate that the strategy was partly successful as Tehran people said a big "No" to symbolic hardliner figures. Ayatollah Yazdi and Ayatollah Mesbah Yazdi lost their seats in the assembly, while Jannati hardly secured his place there, standing at the bottom of the list of those elected. As for the parliamentary elections, the latest results indicate that the "List of Hope" - a pro-Rouhani coalition of moderates and reformists - won a landslide victory in Tehran, securing the capital city's all 30 seats in the parliament. Tehran is one of the main castles of the Iranian reformists. However, the voter turnout at the recent elections roughly reached 50 percent, what suggests that a significant part of Tehran citizens still doubts that their voices change anything and continue boycotting the elections. Having taken a look at the election results across the country, it is obvious that reformists have failed to win the majority of seats in the parliament, but even with this result they are expected to be able to form a powerful minority. But can we call the election results a victory for reformists? Iran's reformists, after the protests over the disputed 2009 presidential election, were completely expelled from the power. Their famous figures found themselves in prisons and faced various limitations, which continue so far. For instance, Iranian media still remain banned from covering statements and pictures of former reformist president, Mohammad Khatami. Taking all this into account and considering that well-known and powerful reformist hopefuls were not permitted to participate in the elections, we can consider the outcome as a victory. The Iranian reformists, now in alliance with pragmatists and moderate conservatives, have managed to send as little hardliners to parliament as possible. It seems that history is repeating itself for Iranian reformists. Those who have observed Iranian political developments can remember that in the fifth parliament, leftists (later reformists) succeeded to gain significant seats following one term of recess, in a coalition with pro-Rafsanjani pragmatists. The success was followed by a historic victory in the 1997 presidential election and a landslide victory in the 6th parliament. The 10th parliament is expected to be similar to the 5th legislative period. In the next legislative election, it is possible that the reformists will win the majority of seats in the parliament, and Iran may even get a more reforms-minded president than Hassan Rouhani, as it happened with Mohammad Khatami. Another remarkable point is Rouhani's strong influence on the political atmosphere in Iran. As for example, during the election campaigns, reformist and conservative classification was overshadowed by the division of political factions into pro- and anti-government in accordance with their closeness to the Iranian president. However, this was not welcomed by Khamenei, who said creation of a "pro-government" and "anti-government" bipolarity is one of "the enemy's artifices" in the elections. Iran's incumbent pragmatist president with conservative backgrounds now has convinced reformists to bring their policies into conformity with his government. Rouhani also has taken the advantage of a gap among conservatives, attracting moderate conservatives towards himself. Rouhani, who has earlier managed to settle Iran's nuclear dispute with world powers ending international sanctions on the country, will apparently take the advantage of a friendlier parliament to focus on domestic issues and run his reforms, particularly in economy. --- Umid Niayesh is Trend Agency's staff journalist, follow him on Twitter: @UmidNiayesh Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Khalid Kazimov - Trend: Iran has unveiled several of its new military achievements in an official ceremony, Fars news agency reported. Among the unveiled achievements are: a chemical agent detector, explosives and drugs detector, explosive resistant coating made of polymer, an NBC (nuclear, biological, chemical) suit, the production line of a medicine to be used against chemical agents. Iranian Defense Minister Brigadier General Hossein Dehqan, who was present at the ceremony, said that designing and producing complex equipment is on the agenda of the defense ministry. Tehran regularly announces military advances that cannot be independently verified. Iranian media outlets report that Iran has made great achievements in its defense sector and attained self-sufficiency in producing essential military equipment and systems in recent years. Meanwhile, the Islamic Republic has held a number of military drills to enhance the defense capabilities of its armed forces and to test modern military tactics and equipment. Iran says its military might poses no threat to other countries, insisting that its defense doctrine is based on deterrence. An explosion has hit the city of Aden in Yemen; security officials say, as insecurity continues to grip the major port city south of the impoverished country, Press TV reported. Sources said on Monday that four people were killed and five others were injured in the massive explosion which hit the residential Sheikh Othman district in Aden. They said the attacker rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into a checkpoint administered by forces loyal to fugitive president Abd Rabbuh Mansour Hadi. The bombing came hours after a pro-Hadi preacher was killed in a gun attack in Aden. Militants controlling the city blamed the ruling Houthi Ansarullah movement for killing of Sheikh Abdulrahman al-Adani, a cleric known for his Salafi interpretation of Islam. There was no immediate claim of responsibility but a military source, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the attack on Monday may have been carried out by the Yemeni branch of al-Qaeda in an attempt to avenge the killing of Adani. For the past few months, Aden has been under the control of pro-Hadi militia, while Hadi himself moves between the city and Saudi Arabia, where he supervises a military campaign by Riyadh against the Houthis. More than 8,300 people have been killed since the Saudis launched their attacks on Yemen in March 2015 in order to restore Hadi to power. German Chancellor Angela Merkel said the refugee crisis is the "biggest challenge" she has faced while in office. "As of today, the migration crisis is the biggest challenge during my term of tenure... But while I am the chancellor, I am solving the problems the country faces," Merkel said on Sunday in an interview with German ARD TV channel. Merkel added that despite the huge migrant flow, she hoped that the German approach to the resolution of the ongoing crisis was correct. Europe has been beset by a massive refugee crisis, with hundreds of thousands of undocumented migrants fleeing their home countries to escape violence and poverty. Germany has become a key destination for refugees, having received around 1.1 million migrants last year alone, according to the country's interior ministry. Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend: New Turkish constitution can be adopted through a national referendum, a source in Turkish presidential administration said in an exclusive interview with Trend Feb. 29. An ad hoc commission was created in Turkey for preparation of a new constitution for the country Feb. 4. The commission was comprised of representatives of ruling party and oppositional ones, however, on February 17, MPs from the opposition Republican People's Party (CHP) left the commission. The source in the administration said that a new constitution is one of important priorities for the country and the date of holding the national referendum for its adoption will be determined by the country's parliament. Earlier, a source in Turkish presidential administration told Trend that adoption of a new constitution is very important for Turkey. The source also said that it is necessary, first of all, that the new constitution gets vote of the Turkish parliament. If the parliament isn't able to adopt a new constitution through a voting, there will be a national referendum, the source said. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Baku, Azerbaijan, Feb. 29 By Rufiz Hafizoglu - Trend: Turkish Minister of Transport, Maritime and Communication Binali Yildirim expressed his hope for a quick resumption of relations between Ankara and Moscow, Anadolu agency reported Feb. 29. The crisis in bilateral relations is unfavorable for both countries, he noted. The minister said that a significant growth in all spheres of relations between Turkey and Russia was observed until this crisis. Turkey, as before, stands for the normalization of relations with Russia, he added. The relations between Russia and Turkey have deteriorated following the SU-24 incident. Following this, Russian president signed a decree on measures to ensure the national security and special economic measures against Turkey. --- Follow the author on Twitter: @rhafizoglu Some grooms in rural China are reportedly affected by the rising cost of Caili, or betrothal gift, which they feel adds to the burden of finding a wife. (Photo : REUTERS) While almost all marriages are expensive in many parts of the world--considering the cost of wedding celebrations and of setting up a new home--in China grooms face the added problem of having to pay a betrothal gift, usually in the form of cash, to offer to the bride's parents. According to a report published by CRIENGLISH.com, this has become a problem for men in rural areas. Advertisement In Chinese culture, Caili or a betrothal gift must be given by a man to the bride's family after engagement to get married. But the Caili tradition now has become more like a commercial transaction, placing a heavy financial burden on grooms, especially in rural areas, the report said. According to Mr. Chen from Shangdong Province, a groom has to pay the minimum price of around 100,000 yuan ($15,320) to get married in China. "Many grooms in Shandong's rural areas have to take a loan to marry their brides," Chen said. "They borrow 100 to 200 thousand yuan to pay the 'bride prices.' And that's just part of the Caili. The groom's family sometimes has to own a commercial property in the center of a county which on average costs over 4,000 yuan per square meter." But having the money is not enough to ensure that a bachelor will find a good bride, the report added. In Henan Province, matchmakers often take into consideration a man's family background, education and appearance. Zhang Yi, a researcher with the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said that the higher levels of Caili in China's rural areas were due to three main reasons. Zhang explained: "First is the demographic structure--there are fewer women than men in China's rural areas. The competition in rural China's marriage market is getting more intense. That's also caused by migration--more and more women of marriageable age leave their homes to work in urban areas. Thirdly is the Caili culture itself, the bride's family would ask for more Caili to look good while the groom would pay more to show they are capable of marrying better brides." According to the report, some bachelors, who do not have the financial means to secure a bride in rural China, seek the help of agencies in Vietnam, Cambodia and Myanmar to acquire a spouse, because it is cheaper there. Zhang, however, believed that poverty in rural China is the real issue behind the rising Caili. "In the process of urbanization, more and more people migrate from the countryside to the cities," Zhang noted. "Then rural areas become empty shells. With the aging population, we will see a bigger development gap between rural and urban areas. I think we need to find ways to narrow this gap. This is the real issue behind the rising Caili." Zhang also predicted that in the next 10 years, bachelors in the rural areas will find it even more difficult to find a bride because of the gender imbalance and increasing competition in the marriage market. The Chinese government plans to train more pediatricians to add 140,000 more professionals in pediatric departments by 2020. (Photo : REUTERS) The Chinese government is set to train more pediatricians in a bid to address an expected demand that would be triggered by the implementation of the two-child policy in the country, the Xinhua News Agency reported. Advertisement In a press conference held Wednesday, Feb. 24, Jin Shengguo from the National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), said that China will try to add 140,000 more pediatricians by 2020, or equivalent to 0.6 pediatricians for every 1,000 children, up from the current 118,000 pediatricians, the report said. According to the NHFPC, pediatric departments in 35,950 health institutions in the country receive 471 million outpatient visits annually and provide care to 21.62 million inpatients on average. Each pediatrician has to see 17 outpatients every day in per capita terms, more than double the average of other specialists, the commission said. Jin said the country will improve the training of pediatric resident doctors, train doctors who shift to pediatric care, and provide adapted courses to ease the shortfall. Song Yi, an official with the Ministry of Education (MOE), said the ministry is addressing the demand for pediatricians as a result of the introduction of the two-child policy. The MOE also required the nation's top 38 medical schools to allow more students to enrol on post-graduate pediatric courses, and to have at least one higher learning institute in each region that would offer undergraduate pediatric courses, Song added. Based on China's public health statistical yearbook in 2015, the number of pediatricians in China dropped from 105,000 to around 100,000 within five years, with an average of only 43 doctors per 100,000 children. A report by China Daily in January cited the situation in smaller cities and counties such as Weinan City, which is about 70 kilometers away from Shaanxi's capital of Xi'an, where they only had 17 doctors to care for 100,000 children. The number of patients in the hospital exceeded 63,000 in 2014 and increased 12 percent in 2015. Statistics by the health and family planning commission of Shaanxi showed that among all the pediatricians, less than one-third are university graduates while another one-third are graduates from junior colleges. According to the report, low salary, high pressure and high risk are the main causes why people are reluctant to become pediatricians. Medicines and examinations are the primary source of income for medical departments in China, and children are prescribed less medicine than adults as 10 to 15 children get dosage equal to roughly one adult. The MOE abolished pediatric departments in universities in 1998 due to the one-child policy, the report said. Google is believed to be working on the successors of Nexus 5x and Nexus 6 P, dubbed the HTC Nexus M1 and S1. (Photo : YouTube/Google Nexus) Speculations are rife that Google Nexus 2016 may be coming with Android VR support and the feature of wireless charging. According to BGR, Google is innovating on a product that seems to be inspired by Samsung's Virtual Reality headset. It will be manufactured from plastic and would support numerous smartphones. It is also expected to have comparatively advanced sensors and lenses, compared to Samsung. The product would be dependent on the smartphone for its processing requirements, according to Financial Times. Advertisement Meanwhile, just like in 2015, Google is expected to release at least two new Nexus smartphones this year. It is reported that one of the Nexus device will be a premium smartphone and the other one will be an upper-midrange device. One of the major competitors for the Google Nexus 2016, which is expected to be manufactured by HTC, will be the upcoming model from Apple, the iPhone 7. Both of these smartphones are expected to be released in September this year. The Taiwanese company HTC is best known for building its gadgets with full metal design. Hence, it might be a possibility that the upcoming Nexus 2016 will come with a metallic unibody design. The Google Nexus 6P, which was released in 2015, came with a 12.3 megapixel rear camera. However, due to the lack of optical image stabilization feature, its camera specs were criticized in the market. Hence, it is strongly rumoured that the Nexus 2016 will come with an enhanced camera, along with the feature of optical image stabilization. HTC is also expected to include a micro SD card slot on its upcoming device, including the Google Nexus 2016. The LG Nexus 5 and the Huawei Nexus 6, both of which were released in 2014, came with the powerful wireless charging feature. Although, the said feature was removed in last year's releases, Nexus 5X and Nexus 6P. Since this offering is a common feature on current flagships, the Google Nexus 2016 is strongly speculated to come equipped with it. Now for the operating system predictions, it is known that the launch of a Nexus device always marks the arrival of a new version of Android software. Hence, it is expected that Android N will be launched along with the release of the upcoming device. Watch the video to know more about the smartphone: A Long March 2F rocket carrying Tiangong-1, China's first unmanned space module, stands at the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center on September 28, 2011 in Jiuquan, Gansu Province of China. (Photo : Getty Images/ Lintao Zhang) In a bid to build its own space station, China announced on Sunday that it will send its second orbiting space lab in the third quarter of this year. This will be followed by a manned Shezhou-11 spacecraft in the fourth quarter of 2016. The second space lab will be called Tiangong-2, meaning "Heavenly Palace-2" in Chinese. Advertisement Tiangong-2 will be the second Chinese space lab in the space launched in a span of five years. In September 2011, China sent its first space station, Tiangong-1, which is serving as a manned laboratory as well as an experimental test-bed to test orbital rendezvous and docking capabilities A statement issued by the China Manned Space Program said that following the successful launch of Tiangong-2, they will send Shezhou-11 with two astronauts on board. This spacecraft will try to dock with Tiangong-2 while in orbit, Xinhua reported. Prior to the launch of Shezhou-11, China will also test launch a rocket dubbed as Long March 7 from the Wenchang satellite launch center in south China's Hainan Province to carry a cargo spacecraft that will also dock with the Tiangong-2 early on in 2017. A spokesperson of the China Aerospace Science and Technology Corp. said Chinese space scientists will explore key technologies during this period. Stating that the scientists will be verifying cargo transportation, astronauts' medium-term stay, on-orbit propellant resupply, and undertake space science as well as application experiments on a fairly large scale, the spokesperson said that preparation for the country's space lab program is progressing steadily. Currently, the astronauts who are scheduled to be on board the Shenzhou-11 are undergoing training. China has launched a multi-billion-dollar space program that aims to set up a permanent manned space station into service around 2022. Many view this as China's ambitions to rival Russia's now defunct space station Mir. The country hopes that the construction of its first orbiting space station will be complete by 2020. Earlier, China Aerospace and Science and Technology Corp announced that China plans to send over 20 space missions in 2016. In addition to the launch of the Tiangong 2 space laboratory and the Shenzhou XI manned spacecraft, China also plans to launch two satellites for its native Beidou Navigation Satellite System and the Gaofen 3 for the Gaofen High-Resolution Earth Observation System, China's state news agency stated. China Aerospace and Science and Technology Corp will also launch a communications satellite for Belarus, which will mark China's first communications satellite export to Europe. Watch the launch of China's first space lab Tiangong-1 below: Known as the Carrot Man, Jeyrick Sigmaton is from Mountain Province, Philippines. (Photo : Facebook/Edwina T. Bandong) Hosted by Peabody Awardee Jessica Soho, the Filipino magazine TV show "Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho" featured Jeyrick Sigmaton, 21, dubbed the Carrot Man, from the Igorot tribe in the episode aired on Feb. 28, Sunday. Featured as resource persons were Dr. Carolyn Sobritchea, an anthropologist, and Prof. Jimmuel Naval, a historian. Advertisement The episode implied that good-looking Igorots with an aquiline nose like the Carrot Man owe their beauty to the British and American missionaries who married the natives of the Cordillera, the mountainous region of Northern Philippines, in the 1900s. In particular, Naval pointed out that Anglican missionaries improved the Igorot race. This angered some netizens. In an open letter posted on Facebook, Habi Collective noted that it is wrong to "hastily" or "automatically credit sharp noses to American bloodlines." The open letter questioned the idea that an aquiline nose is inherently better than a round nose and pointed out that some Cordilleran people already had aquiline noses even before they met Caucasian missionaries. To support the latter, the letter included some early 20th Century photographs showing different Cordilleran noses. In most, if not all, countries, sharp noses are considered aesthetically better than big and flat noses, which is why aesthetic rhinoplasty is a thing. In the Philippines, the Filipino adjective matangos means sharp and pointed and is exclusively used to describe noses, particularly those that are shaped like an eagle's beak. In his book "The Benguet Igorots: A somatologic study of the live folk of Benguet and Lepanto-Bontoc" published in 1908, American ethnologist Robert Bennett Bean said that there are three types of Igorot noses, which are "aquiline, straight, and australoid." The American era in Mountain Province, where Sigmaton is from, started in 1908. One thing that needs to be considered in this issue of aquiline noses is that there are many Filipinos mestizophiles, people who revere those who are of mixed descent like they have royal blood and regard those who are of pure ancestry as average ones. This is related to the fact that many Filipinos are xenophiles, people who are attracted to foreign peoples, cultures or customs, making them known for their hospitality. This why some internet trolls in the Philippines hate the fact that the Carrot Man is said to resemble Alden Richards, the other half of the record-breaking viral duo AlDub. While Richards is a mestizo, Sigmaton is a pure Igorot, a pure Filipino. Whether or not Caucasians are responsible for the Carrot Man's aquiline nose, what makes the "Kapuso Mo, Jessica Soho" episode featuring Sigmaton wrong is the part when Naval implied that one race can improve another race through intermarriages. The magazine show has issued an apology through a Facebook post but did not acknowledge the error the historian has made. Watch the Carrot Man featured in an episode of a magazine show hosted by an award-winning journalist here: Any corrections, additions and reactions to this commentary are welcome. Just let us know by commenting below: (Disclaimer: Views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and not necessarily those of Yibada.) To share with friends and brethren The Gospel of the Kingdom of Jesus Christ (the Everlasting Gospel), and to prepare a people to stand when He returns to redeem His remnant. Also, to share relevant information of current events, and to show how they relate to prophecy; By means of articles, editorials, opinions, scripture readings, and poetry. Disclaimer Endrtimes does not necessarily endorse or agree with every opinion expressed in every article/video posted on this site. The information provided here is done so for personal edification; It's up to the reader to separate truth from error, and to examine everything (like the Bereans) from a Biblical perspective. 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Ahead of his visit to Tokyo Sunday, Egypt's president talked cooperation and regional crises - warning a collapse in Libya could allow terrorist groups to use the country as a 'springboard' Egypt's President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi aims to send 100,000 Egyptian students to study in Japan, he told Japanese news outlet The Asahi Shimbun. The interview was conducted last week in Cairo but published on Saturday. El-Sisi said that he hopes Egypt could benefit from cooperation with Japan in education, saying that Tokyo's educational system "stresses discipline." During his trip to Japan, where he is expected to arrive later on Sunday following a two-day visit to Kazakhstan, El-Sisi is set to meet with senior officials including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Emperor Akihito. Egypt's president will also meet the head of the Japan International Cooperation Agency, Tokyo's governor, and will give a speech in front of the Japanese parliament on Monday. "Gravest danger for all humanity" During his interview with The Asahi Shimbun, El-Sisi said the US-led international coalition against IS group in Syria and Iraq "has been ongoing for more than one year, but [IS group] activities has not declined." He described the spread of terrorist groups such as the IS group as the "gravest danger for all humanity." Egypt supports the US-led coalition against the IS group but has not taken part in its military operations. Some of Egypt's regional allies, including Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates and Jordan are part of the US-led coalition. On the Libya crisis, the president said "If Libya collapses it could act as a springboard for terrorism to expand to neighbouring countries such as Tunisia, Algeria, Egypt and even outside to Europe." "Our strategy is to protect our own soil - we will continue our fight against terrorism and will not interfere in the internal affairs of any other states," El-Sisi added, ruling out any Egyptian military intervention in Libya. More than years after the fall of Libyan president Muammar Gaddafi, Libya is deeply fractured, with a self-declared government in Tripoli and an internationally recognised government in the east each backed by coalitions of former rebels and militias. Search Keywords: Short link: On Wednesday, a Republican-led House Committee approved the legislation designating the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist organisation Egypt welcomed on Sunday a move by the United States Congress Judiciary Committee to label the Muslim Brotherhood a foreign terrorist organisation. The move shows that the entire world has started realising Egypts point of view, presidency spokesman Alaa Youssef told state news agency MENA. On Wednesday, a Republican-led House Committee approved the legislation. The legislation, submitted in late 2015, cites multiple countries who have declared the Brotherhood a terrorist organisation, such as Egypt, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. If passed and made into law, the US would have to deny admittance to non-US citizens who are tied to the Brotherhood. Egypt declared the Muslim Brotherhood a terrorist group in late 2013, and many of its leading figures, including ousted president Mohamed Morsi, are currently being tried on multiple terror-related charges. Search Keywords: Short link: France says Egypt plans to extradite a French citizen to the Dominican Republic, where he is wanted for his alleged role in helping two French pilots convicted of cocaine trafficking escape by flying across the Atlantic. Christophe Naudin, a criminologist and aviation expert, was arrested while travelling in Cairo, Egypt, earlier this month. The Dominican Republic has issued arrest warrants for him and two other French men suspected to be involved in helping the pilots, European Parliament member Aymeric Chauprade and politician Pierre Malinowski. The French Foreign Ministry said Sunday it will "closely monitor" Naudin's situation. His extradition to the Dominican Republic is now "imminent," Naudin's wife Michele told BFM television. The pilots, Pascal Fauret and Bruno Odos, say they are innocent and didn't know the plane they were hired to fly in 2013 was loaded with 700 kilograms (1,500 pounds) of cocaine. They fled the Dominican Republic on 2015, Oct. 27, despite an order to remain in the country pending appeal, after being convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison. They were arrested in Lyon, France, in November and have been jailed pending a parallel French investigation into their alleged drug trafficking. France says it won't extradite them, a general rule regarding its own citizens. Search Keywords: Short link: In a speech to the Japanese Parliament on Monday morning, El-Sisi praised the Japanese economic development experience, discussed Egypt's completed roadmap towards state-institution building, counted investment opportunities for Japanese businessmen in Egypt, and tackled regional challenges. El-Sisi, who is on three-nation Asian tour, is one of only six presidents to have ever addressed Japan's parliament, the second African president to do so after Nelson Mandela, and the first Arab president. The Japanese experience The Egyptian president expressed his appreciation for Japan's civilisation as well as its economic development experience. "I would like to express the Egyptian people's and my personal appreciation of what Japanese people offer: a role model and a unique civilisation, which managed to transform honourable, ethical principles and team work into a concrete reality everywhere in Japan," El-Sisi said. He also evoked Egyptian poets who spoke highly of Japan, citing the late 'Prince of poets' Ahmed Shawky's praise for the Japanese nation, and 'Poet of the Nile' Hafez Ibrahim's Japan-inspired poems. Egypt's roadmap El-Sisi reviewed Egypt's implementation of its 2013 road map, including the convening of parliament, highlighting the high representation of women, youth, and members with special needs. He also said the Egyptian people realised their goals by preserving the stability of their state and its institutions, saying this "prevented Egypt from slipping into the fate of other countries in the region that were ripped apart by divisions and civil war, and where hateful terrorism multiplied their people's suffering." "The Egyptian parliament will make sure to activate the articles of the constitution, which includes unprecedented [guarantees] of rights and freedoms, in the context of the state's commitment to continue along the democratic path that it started." He added that the Egyptian state is committed to the rule of the law, the separation of powers, and respect for human rights not only on the political and civil level, but also in terms of social and economic aspirations for a stable and secure life. El-Sisi added that he hopes to build strong relations between the Japanese and Egyptian parliaments and ties that go beyond the official level. He expressed appreciation for Japan's support for Egypt in transportation, health, education, and cultural sectors. "Egypt aspires to continue this cooperation to complete the operation of development in order to make Egyptian-Japanese relations even more special," El-Sisi said. Investment opportunities El-Sisi presented Egypt's major projects, such as the Suez Canal area development project and the road network project, stressing on investment opportunities in Egypt and encouraging Japanese investors to contribute to such projects. "Egypt passed legislations and procedures to attract investors, and is one of the countries generating the most revenues in investments. "Egypt offered in one year a solution to the problem of energy shortage and completely fulfilled the industry sector's needs so that the wheel of production continues," the Egyptian president said. He also encouraged Japanese tourists to visit Egypt, stressing that Cairo is committed to protecting the safety of its visitors. The Islamic discourse El-Sisi said Islam carries a message of peace, adding that the religion advocates seeking knowledge and cooperation between nations and not terrorising people or destroying civilisations. "Islam elevates the value of the soul," he said, adding that whoever violates this through killing and aggression is not related to Islam. "A hateful terrorism is present in the world, which damages minds, destroys the good, antagonises humanity, hates civilisation and seeks to achieve toxic, narrow interests for segments who know no religion or homeland," El-Sisi said. He stressed that fighting terrorism requires cooperation and not only military power, but also economic and social means to prevent the cultivation of such behavior, in addition to the need of correcting religious discourse and developing education. "Egypt seeks cooperation with Japan in the education sector to benefit from its wonderful experience which combined high quality education with extreme care for incorporating honorable, humanitarian principles of patriotism and team work, which are essential for economic and social development," he added. Agreement on regional matters El-Sisi emphasised Egypt's support for political solutions in regional conflicts to maintain the unity of states such as in Syria, Libya, and Yemen. He highlighed Egypt's role in working for peace in the Middle East, saying Egypt has remained committed to its signed peace treaties while exerting efforts to boost Palestinian-Israeli negotiations. "The Egyptian state believes that the stability needed in the Middle East will not happen without a just and permanent solution for the Palestinian issue that ends the Palestinian people's decades-long suffering and grants them a stable life in an independent state, with East Jerusalem as its capital," El-Sisi said. "I spoke to you with honesty and I hope that [my words] resonated in this deep-rooted parliament, convinced your minds, and touched your hearts. It is a peaceful, loving, and honest expression of the will of my country's people to work and cooperate with Japan and its people," El-Sisi said, concluding his speech. Search Keywords: Short link: The minimum demand of the two prominent strikers, who will be sitting in at the Press Syndicate headquarters in Cairo, is proper medical treatment for jailed journalists who need it Two members of the board of Egypt's journalists syndicate began on Monday an open-ended sit-in inside downtown Cairos press union to protest the mistreatment of their imprisoned colleagues, calling on more journalists to join the strike. We are against the slow death of our colleagues, head of the syndicates freedom committee Khaled El-Balshy, who started the strike along with Mahmoud Kamel, told Ahram Online. At least 30 journalists are currently imprisoned or detained pending trial on various criminal and misdemeanor charges. El-Balshy stated that there are a number of violations being committed against jailed journalists, but what makes the situation critical is that four colleagues lives are in danger. The veteran journalist and editor of Al-Bedaya website said that one of the imprisoned journalists needs an urgent heart surgery while another, Youssef Shaaban, has Hepatitis C. The syndicate has called on jail authorities to provide adequate medications to Shabaan for the past 10 months without response. He said that there are other long-term demands, such as allowing the syndicate to visit the jailed journalists and eventually a pardon. Our minimum demand is medical treatment, El-Balshy added. El-Balshy added that some imprisoned journalists started a hunger strike, but their numbers are unknown as they are allowed limited visits. On Saturday, the Journalists Syndicate released a press statement detailing the mistreatment of journalists inside Al-Aqrab prison, which is reportedly notorious for abuse of inmates. The syndicate called for an official inquiry into the violations against imprisoned journalists. It also demanded more humane jail conditions for imprisoned colleagues, appropriate medical care and family visits. The syndicate will hold an emergency general assembly meeting on 4 March to press these demands, and discuss attacks on press freedoms. The Egyptian government has repeatedly denied that journalists who are behind bars have been arrested or detained as a result of their journalistic work. The authorities have also denied what rights activists describe as systematic violations against inmates inside Egypt's prisons. Search Keywords: Short link: Three months following the death of archbishop Abraham, Pope Tawadros II appoints Theodore Al-Antouny as new archbishop to Jerusalem and the Near East Egypt's Pope Tawadros II appointed on Sunday Theodore Al-Antouny as the new archbishop to Jerusalem and the Near East three months following the death of his predecessor, Archbishop Abraham. The new archbishop to Jerusalem will also be in charge of Lebanon, Jordan, Iraq, Syria and Kuwait. Although the archbishop is usually responsible for 12 additional countries in Asia, Tawadros II said that they will be under the direct supervision of the Coptic Orthodox Church in Egypt. The 47-year-old Al-Antouny, a former pharmacist, was born in the Upper Egyptian village of Abu Tig in Assiut governorate. Pope Tawadros II chose him among other monks to study at the Faculty of Theology in Greece for a period of four years, though he completed only two. The Jerusalem diocese was previously managed by the Syriac Church before the Coptic Orthodox Church started appointing its archbishops. Al-Antouny will be the 22nd archbishop of Jerusalem. In November 2015, Tawadros II made an exceptional trip to Jerusalem through Tel Aviv to head the funeral prayer for Metropolitan Archbishop Abraham. The visit marked the first by a Coptic pope to the Holy Land since 1967. Whoever fills the post of the Jerusalem and Near East diocese is considered the second most important figure following the pope in the Coptic Holy Synod. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypt's parliament has barred independent MP Tawfik Okasha from 10 house sessions for insulting the House speaker Egypt's parliament voted on Monday in favour of stripping independent MP and controversial TV anchor Tawfik Okasha of the right to attend 10 plenary sessions for insulting the House speaker. Okasha will, however, be allowed to enter parliament and meet with colleagues in the House's Pharaonic lobby. A report prepared by a special parliamentary committee found Okasha guilty of directing an insult to constitutional law professor and parliament speaker Ali Abdel-Al in a plenary session on 22 February. The committee said many MPs testified that Okasha showed disrespect for the speaker and disrupted old parliamentary rules and precedents during the session. The committee said that video footage proves Okasha interrupted speaker Abdel-Al many times "in a very impolite way," telling him loudly that "you were not the right man for this post." The committee originally decided that Okasha be banned from attending three plenary sessions only, but upon the request of many MPs, parliament voted in favour of stiffening the penalty. Abdel-Al also announced in Monday's morning session that another special committee had been formed to take charge of questioning Okasha for hosting Israel's ambassador in Egypt Haim Koren and discussing sovereign and national security matters with him. The committee will be led by judicial expert and independent MP Hassan Bassiouny. Okasha's meeting with Israel's ambassador infuriated the majority of MPs, with old-time Nasserist MP Kamal Ahmed hitting Okasha with his shoe during parliament's session on Sunday morning. Although many MPs condemned Ahmed for chastising Okasha in "a very vulgar way," they said they would not forgive Okasha and that if the special committee decided to strip him of his parliamentary membership they would not hesitate in voting for it. Okasha is also accused of forging his PhD certificate. During the registeration session fior new MPs, Okasha wrote down he earned a PhD in management of mass communication institutions from the University of Lakewood Bradenton in the US state of Florida. Search Keywords: Short link: The MP is facing investigation in parliament over hosting the Israeli ambassador in at his home Controversial TV host and MP Tawfik Okasha attacked his critics on his TV channel Sunday night after he was assaulted in parliament by a shoe-wielding fellow MP for hosting the Israeli ambassador at his home. Okasha said that he was presenting a complaint against MP Mostafa Bakry when MP Kamel Ahmed assaulted him with his shoe, telling him "not to dare and speak about president Gamal Abdel-Nasser." On Saturday, Okasha unleashed a verbal attack on his TV channel against the late president, describing him as a "loser who destroyed Egypt." However, Ahmed previously said that he attacked Okasha for hosting the Israeli ambassador at his home in Daqahliya, a move that sparked widespread condemnation in parliament. Okasha also said that a video leaked online showing the assault was filmed from where members of the In Love of Egypt electoral coalition were seated. "The whole thing was pre-planned," he said. Okasha previously claimed that In Love of Egypt was founded by the Egyptian security authorities to control parliament. He also said that he had visited Israel and attended debates at the country's foreign ministry headquarters in 2010 when he was an MP, yet did not face backlash in Egypt. Egypt's parliament decided early Monday to ban Okasha from attending ten sessions for insulting to the House speaker, the House of Representatives and its members on TV. Last week, Okasha slammed speaker Ali Abdel-Al for not letting him speak during the session, saying that Abdel-Al assuming the post of speaker was a "mistake." The independent MP is awaiting investigation for hosting the Israeli ambassador. Israel's ambassador to Cairo Haim Koren revealed in an interview on Israeli Ch.10 on Sunday that he would meet Okasha again at the Israeli embassy in Cairo. He also revealed that he spoke with the controversial MP on the phone after the incident in parliament. Koren added that he would not be deterred by the incident from strengthening bilateral relations between the Egypt and Israel. Koren was appointed as the ambassador of Israel to Cairo in September 2014. Search Keywords: Short link: Amr Ali was convicted of illegal protesting and joining an 'illegal group' A Cairo misdemeanour court sentenced on Monday the coordinator of the 6 of April Youth Movement Amr Ali to three years in prison and a fine of EGP 500 on charges of illegal protesting and joining a banned group. Ali, who was arrested in September 2015, can still appeal the court verdict. Ali was elected as the 6 of April coordinator in October 2013, succeeding its founder and long-time coordinator Ahmed Maher, who is currently serving a three-year jail term on charges of illegal protesting. In April 2014, the Cairo Court for Urgent Matters banned all activities by the group. April 6 was established in 2008 to support a strike by textile workers in the industrial city of Mahalla El-Kubra. The strike was a milestone in the mobilisation of activists prior to the January 25 Revolution. Since the 2013 ouster of president Mohamed Morsi, the movement which opposes both the Muslim Brotherhood and the post-Morsi government has been denounced by many Egyptian media outlets. Ever since the court banned activities by the group, many of its members have been detained and questioned on charges of joining an "illegal group." Search Keywords: Short link: After a stormy debate on the Egyptian parliament's new internal by-laws on Monday, dozens of MPs affiliated with various political parties walked out of the chamber in protest against what they called "the monopolistic and unfair practices of speaker Ali Abdel-Al." Around 100 MPs accused Abdel-Al of shaped the debate in a way that only serves the interests of the pro-government parliamentary bloc entitled the Support Egypt coalition. Abdel-Al won his seat as a candidate with the Support Egypt bloc and ran for speaker as the coalition's nominee. The Support Egypt coalition has around 270 MPs, forming roughly 45 per cent of parliament. In a statement to reporters, the protesting MPs said it would be fruitless to participate in more debate on parliament's new internal by-laws as long as speaker Abdel-Al insists on taking politically biased stands. "As parliament speaker, he must be neutral and unbiased at all times," said the statement. "But the problem now is that Abdel-Al insists on imposing his own political viewpoints on parliament." The statement accused Abdel-Al of skewing the debate on articles 95, 96 and 97 which regulate the formation of parliamentary blocs to serve the Support Egypt coalition. They also charged that Abdel-Al interfered to ensure that Article 97 require that a parliamentary bloc include at least 25 per cent of MPs in order to gain official recognition, rather than 20 per cent as was originally stipulated . "Changing the stipulation to 25 percent makes it hard for several political parties to form parliamentary blocs," said the statement, adding that "even worse, Article 97 also stipulates that the members of each coalition must come from at least 15 governorates [out of a total 27], and that MPs are not allowed to be members of more than one bloc." Bahaaeddin Abu Shoqa, an appointed MP and the head of the committee that took charge of amending parliament's internal by-laws to go in line with the new constitution, strongly defended the text of Article 97. "Article 97 was worded to go in line with articles 5 and 146 of the new constitution, which state that the multi-party system must form the basis of political life in Egypt," said Abu Shoqa, adding that "coalitions are necessary to bring political parties with similar positions under one umbrella and help them form a majority government in the end." Abu Shoqa argued that all the worlds parliaments stipulate a certain minimum requirement for blocs to be officially recognised. "This usually ranges between 20 per cent and 25 per cent," said Abu Shoqa. "Laws regulating the formation of political parties also stipulate that for a political party to be officially recognised, it must include at least 1,000 members, with 300 coming from at least 10 governorates." Abu Shoqa said that since independents form around 60 per cent of MPs in Egypt's new parliament, the committee had initially agreed that "a 20 per cent minimum is good to help form political coalitions in parliament." During the debate, however, it was proposed by the Support Egypt coalition that the minimum be increased to 25 per cent. The proposal saw more than 330 MPs in favour, but the dissenting MPs said the vote could not have been correct as that number of MPs was not present at the time. Around 120 out of a total 440 articles of parliament's new internal by-laws have so far been approved. Search Keywords: Short link: reflections, updates and homilies from Deacon Mike Talbot inspired by the following words from my ordination: Receive the Gospel of Christ whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe and practice what you teach... Giza prosecutors ordered the detention of three low-ranking policemen on Monday on charges of receiving bribes from citizens, Al-Ahram Arabic news website reported. Investigations indicated that the suspects, who were stationed at a checkpoint in Gizas Maryoutiya, received money from drivers and citizens in return for overlooking their violations. The case comes amid widespread public outrage over several high-profile incidents involving low-ranking policemen in the past few weeks, including an alleged assault last month by policemen on two doctors at Cairo's Matariya Hospital as well as the fatal shooting of a citizen in Cairos El-Darb El-Ahmar district. Two weeks ago, President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi ordered that the cabinet present to parliament legislative amendments to address police violations. Search Keywords: Short link: The government of Japan will issue annual scholarships for 2,500 Egyptian students and interns for five years in order to develop Egyptian human resources and enhance their skills, Egypt's presidency said in a statement on Monday amid an ongoing visit by President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi to Tokyo. In an interview with Japanese news outlet Asahi Shimbun published on Saturday, El-Sisi said that he aims to send 100,000 Egyptian students to study in Japan, saying that Tokyo's educational system "stresses discipline." El-Sisi, who is on a three-nation Asian tour, held talks on Sunday with senior Japanese officials including Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and Emperor Akihito, and gave a speech in front of the Japanese parliament on Monday. Egypt will sign three concessional loan agreements with Japan, including a $155 million loan to expand Egypt's Borg Al-Arab Airport, located about 50km southwest of Alexandria, a source from Egypts International Cooperation Ministry told Ahram Online on Sunday. Search Keywords: Short link: Egypt's Journalists Syndicate was informed by the interior ministry that imprisoned journalists will receive all needed medical treatment, head of the syndicate's freedom committee Khaled El-Balshy said on Monday, hours after a strike was staged by journalists to protest the "mistreatment" of their jailed colleagues. El-Balshy told Ahram Online earlier on Monday that there are a number of violations being committed against jailed journalists, and that some "colleagues' lives are in danger" over their respective medical conditions. He later said on his Facebook page that jailed journalists Youssef Shabaan and Hani Salah El-Din were taken to public hospitals to receive treatment, and that the interior ministry allowed the families of another two, Hisham Gaafar and Hossam El-Sayed, to visit them. El-Balashy also said that an urgent meeting will soon take place with interior minister Magdy Abdel-Ghaffar. At least 30 journalists are currently imprisoned or detained pending trial on various felony and misdemeanor charges. On Saturday, the Journalists Syndicate released a press statement detailing the alleged mistreatment of journalists at El-Aqrab prison, which is notorious for the alleged abuse of inmates. The syndicate called for an official inquiry into reported violations against imprisoned journalists. It also demanded more humane jail conditions, appropriate medical care and family visits. The syndicate will hold an emergency general assembly meeting on 4 March to press these demands and discuss what it describes as "attacks on press freedoms." The Egyptian government has repeatedly denied that jailed journalists have been arrested or detained as a result of their journalistic work. The authorities have also denied what rights activists describe as systematic violations against inmates inside Egypt's prisons. Search Keywords: Short link: Syria could become a federal state if that model works in the country, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov told a news briefing on Monday. A fragile cessation of hostilities, drawn up jointly by the United States and Russia, has led to a dramatic reduction of violence in Syria over the weekend, though rebels are accusing the government of numerous violations including air strikes. The United Nations' Syria mediator, Staffan de Mistura, has said he intends to reconvene peace talks between the Syrian government and opposition on March 7, provided the halt in fighting largely holds and allows for greater delivery of humanitarian relief. "If as a result of talks, consultations and discussions on Syria's future state order ... they come to an opinion that namely this (federal) model will work to serve the task of preserving Syria as a united, secular, independent and sovereign nation, then who will object to this?" Ryabkov said. After five years of civil war that has killed 250,000 people and driven some 11 million from their homes, Syria's territory is already effectively split between various parties, including the government and its allies, Western-backed Kurds, opposition groups and Islamic State militants. In a September interview, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad did not rule out the idea of federalism, but said any change must be a result of dialogue among Syrians and a referendum to introduce the necessary changes to the constitution. "From our side, when the Syrian people are ready to move in a certain direction, we will naturally agree to this," he said at the time. Ryabkov said Moscow would also not object to "any other model for Syria, provided it is not written to someone's dictation somewhere 1,000 kilometres away from Syria". Search Keywords: Short link: A suicide bomber struck a Shia funeral northeast of Baghdad Monday, killing at least 24 people, including militia commanders, in an attack claimed by the Islamic State group, officials said. The blast in Muqdadiyah, which was hit by a wave of revenge attacks on Sunni homes and mosques after a January suicide bombing, also wounded dozens of people. The bombing targeted a funeral for a well-known Shia member of the Beni Tamim, one of the main tribes in Diyala province, where Muqdadiyah is located. Sadiq al-Husseini, the head of the Diyala province security committee, said that a commander from Asaib Ahl al-Haq and another from Badr -- two powerful Shiite militias -- were killed in the blast. The Islamic State militant group claimed the attack in an online statement, saying a suicide bomber who detonated an explosive belt targeted a gathering of militiamen in Muqdadiyah. It listed the names of some who were allegedly killed. Suicide bombings are a tactic almost exclusively employed in Iraq by IS, a Sunni extremist group that overran swathes of the country in 2014. The Muqdadiyah attack came a day after bombings in a Shia area of northern Baghdad killed at least 39 people and wounded at least 76, the deadliest attacks in the capital so far this year. IS said in an online statement that two of its suicide bombers carried out the Baghdad attacks. IS also claimed bombings at a cafe in Muqdadiyah that killed at least 20 people and wounded dozens in January, after which revenge attacks targeted Sunni properties in the area. Human Rights Watch said Shia militiamen abducted and killed civilians in the Muqdadiyah area after the attack, in addition to burning homes and mosques. The death of militia leaders in the Monday bombing increases the odds of another round of revenge attacks in the area. Iraq turned to Shia militia forces in 2014 to help counter an IS onslaught that overran large areas north and west of Baghdad, and they have played a key role in halting the jihadist advance and later pushing them back. But they have also carried out repeated abuses during the conflict that ultimately feed mistrust of the government and are harmful to Baghdad's efforts to reassert and maintain control in recaptured areas. Diyala province was declared "liberated" from IS in late January 2015, but that has not brought an end to attacks by the militants. Search Keywords: Short link: The EU on Monday unveiled details of a new deal with the US to curb government spying on the personal Internet data of European citizens, but critics said it fell short and threatened fresh legal action. Top US companies including Facebook and Google rely on such transatlantic agreements to give legal cover for them to transfer data from their European subsidiaries to their headquarters in the United States. Brussels and Washington announced the new EU-US "Privacy Shield" deal on February 2, replacing a previous agreement that was thrown out by the European Court of Justice last year. The new steps include commitments from President Barack Obama to limit the use of bulk-collected intelligence, the appointment of a US ombudsman to deal with complaints by European citizens, and fines for firms that do not comply. EU Justice Commissioner Vera Jourova said the agreement was a "strong new framework" with easier redress for individuals". But Austrian Internet activist Max Schrems -- who brought a case against Facebook in Ireland that led to the EU court judgment last year -- said the new deal amounts to putting "ten layers of lipstick on a pig." "There will be a number of people that will challenge this decision if it ever comes out this way - and I may very will be one of them," Schrems said in a document on his Twitter account. He said that the deal includes too many areas under which "bulk" data collection is allowed. The old Safe Harbor agreement effectively meant that Europe treated the United States a safe destination for Internet data on the basis that Brussels and Washington adhered to similar standards. But the EU court declared Safe Harbor "invalid" in October because of US snooping practices exposed by Edward Snowden, the former intelligence contractor who leaked a hoard of National Security Agency documents. Brussels said the new agreement meant EU member states' national authorities will be able to fine firms up to 20 million euros, or up to four percent of total worldwide annual turnover, if they break EU rules. EU authorities will also be able suspend data transfers to recipients in third countries or to international obligations. Washington has also agreed to set up an ombudsman within the US State Department to assess complaints by EU citizens. Europeans will further be able to seek redress for breaches through several channels including an arbitration system. The deal will also be subject to an annual review. Search Keywords: Short link: Iran's President Hassan Rouhani secured a more moderate parliament Monday after elections saw hardliners soundly trumped by reformists while conservatives lost seats and voters implicitly backed the government. Final results showed seats being shared three ways between Rouhani's reformist and moderate allies, conservatives and independents. No single group had a decisive share of parliament's 290 seats from Friday's voting, but tallies suggested the president would be able to muster support from key backers and create a working majority. The returns were shaping up as a strong signal of public support for last year's nuclear deal between Iran and world powers, an agreement steered by Rouhani which saw the lifting of crippling sanctions in January. Friday's second election -- for the clerical Assembly of Experts -- also produced symbolic gains for Rouhani. Two renowned hardline ayatollahs lost their seats on the 88-member assembly, a powerful committee that monitors supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's work and will pick the 76-year-old's successor if he dies during its eight-year term. In contrast, 15 of 16 members of the assembly's list in Tehran headed by Rouhani and his top ally Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a two-term former president, were elected. Rafsanjani came first and Rouhani third. A push by their supporters, largely on social media, helped eject current assembly chair Mohammad Yazdi and the ultraconservative Mohammad Taghi Mesbah-Yazdi, formerly a close adviser to ex-president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. The most dramatic change was the resurgence of the reformists, a political camp largely silenced after a disputed election in 2009 saw Ahmadinejad re-elected. That vote was followed by bloody street protests in which dozens of people were killed in what is widely considered the Islamic republic's darkest hour. Reformists swept the capital, and in an electoral first did so without requiring a second round of voting in any of the 30 seats they secured. After campaigning as the "List of Hope", a slate of reformist politicians who support the government will regain significant power in parliament and are likely to push for social, cultural and political reforms. Reformists stayed away from parliamentary elections four years ago in protest at Ahmadinejad's earlier victory, with defeated candidates Mir Hossein Mousavi and Mehdi Karroubi, who remain under house arrest, alleging the vote was rigged. Results from other cities also had conservatives losing seats, but they continued to enjoy strong support in rural areas. The main conservative list secured 103 MPs, reformists and moderates from the List of Hope 95, and Independents 14. Some 69 constituencies had no clear winner, meaning a second round run-off will be needed in a field that has more conservatives than reformists and moderates. Many of those conservatives already elected are moderates who backed Rouhani on the nuclear deal and, acutely aware of the public's shifting mood and desire for more openness to the West, are likely to support the government. Such a spirit of cooperation came from Ali Larijani, a conservative and parliament's current speaker, who described the election as "eye-catching" and said it signalled that "a new page had been opened for the country". Larijani's political heft was crucial to the nuclear deal being approved by MPs as he had backed Rouhani at key moments in the more than two years of negotiations that led to the agreement. The results represent "a reaction against radicals" from the electorate, Amir Mohebbian, an analyst with close links to politicians of all political hues, told AFP. "But mistakes by the conservatives who supported radicals during the campaign were also to blame" for their losses, he said. The elections were seen as a crucial indicator of the future direction Iranians want for their country. From a population of almost 80 million, 62 percent of its 55 million electorate voted. Khamenei himself stressed their importance ahead of the elections, urging the electorate to participate in both polls. Although Rouhani secured the nuclear agreement last July, ending a 13-year standoff over Iran's atomic ambitions, and sanctions were lifted last month he has so far been unable to deliver significant domestic changes. Support from reformists in the next parliament should make that easier, but the resurgent group is also likely to pressure the president for change and concrete progress on long-avoided difficult issues such as demands to free political prisoners, which could lead to conflict with conservatives. Search Keywords: Short link: Oscars 'In Memoriam' section paid tribute to 136 stars who passed away this year Egyptian icon Omar Sharif, who passed away last year, was remembered at the Academy Awards on Sunday in the In Memoriam tribute section. Oscar-nominated Sharif was among 136 artists who were remembered in a video montage for their contributions to the art and science of motion pictures, according to the Oscars website. Dave Grohl of Foo Fighters complemented the screened video with his live performance of The Beatles' hit Blackbird on stage. Sharif was born Michelle Chalhoub in Alexandria in1932 to Syrian-Lebanese parents. He died of a heart attack on 10 July 2015. His lustrous career comprised over 110 films, made both in Egypt and abroad. In addition to films with acclaimed director Youssef Chahine, he worked with many prominent Egyptian filmmakers such as Henry Barakat, Salah Abu Seif and Kamal El-Sheikh. Considered one of the golden age heroes of Egyptian cinema, many of his movies are carved in the minds of Egyptians and Arabs as pillars of classical cinema, including A Man in Our House (1961), A Love Rumour (1959), Struggle on the Nile (1959), The River of Love (1960), and many others. His international fame followed his role in David Leans Lawrence of Arabia (1962), which earned him his Oscar nomination. For his role in Dr Zhivago (1965), Sharif won a Golden Globe Award for best actor. Sharif's other international films include Doctor Zhivago (1965), Che, Marco the Magnificent, Ghenghis Khan, and Funny Girl (1968), and Hidalgo. For more arts and culture news and updates, follow Ahram Online Arts and Culture on Twitter at @AhramOnlineArts and on Facebook at Ahram Online: Arts & Culture Search Keywords: Short link: On December 14, the board of governors of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) approved China's application for membership. China is, of course, already a shareholder in several global and regional development institutions, but the EBRD is different in its focus on private sector development and explicit promotion of democracy and a market economy. Membership is part of much more ambitions engagement of China in global finance. That it finally happened reflects the increasing role of China in international economic policymaking and particularly in the EBRD's region of operation in Eastern Europe and North Africa. The activation of the G-20 and China's participation in the response to the global financial crisis clearly helped strengthen the argument for engaging with the country. Global Strategy The membership in EBRD is part of a more outward-looking approach by China regarding the global financial architecture. The creation of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank (AIIB) and the New Development Bank (NDB) the so-called "BRICS bank" are well-known examples of this new strategy, but it goes much further. Potentially even more important is the founding of the Silk Road Fund, so far a unilateral institution, which has already made several very large investments and which has ambitious plans for expansion in the vast space between China and Europe. The combined capital of US$ 100 billion for the AIIB and US$ 50 billion for the NDB will not go very far in meeting the overall financing gap for infrastructure in developing countries, conservatively estimated to be US$ 1 trillion to US$ 1.5 trillion annually. The Silk Road Fund and other Chinese development institutions, like China Development Bank and CITIC, are likely to make a more serious dent, but unmet needs will remain large and there is still room for additional initiatives. But the new strategy also influences China's behavior in existing institutions, particularly in some of the regional institutions like the EBRD. The establishment of the new institutions reflects Chinese frustration after several years of seeking increasing influence in global financial institutions, primarily the World Bank and International Monetary Fund. It also well known that China was unhappy about what it saw as the inadequacies of the Asian Development Bank. The AIIB is, of course, a direct challenge to that institution. China's development institutions' engagement with regional institutions goes well beyond Asia. For a couple of decades Chinese institutions have been increasingly important players in Africa. The People's Bank of China, the China Development Bank, the Export-Import Bank and the China-Africa Development Fund are all taking part in activities with the African Development Bank. In 2014, the African Development Bank and PBOC announced that they had launched the US$ 2 billion Africa Growing Together Fund, a co-financing facility expected to be disbursed over 10 years. China also joined the Inter-American Development Bank in 2008, reflecting the growing importance of its economic and political links with Latin America and the Caribbean. It has contributed a similar co-investment fund to that of its backing of the African Development Bank. Interestingly, as in the EBRD case, the Chinese shareholding started out very modestly, with 184 shares or 0.004 per cent of total capital. (The starting stake in the EBRD is 0.1 percent). Since joining the African Development Bank in 1985, China has taken part in eight replenishments of the associated African Development Fund. In the most recent fund, its burden was 2.052 percent. Chinese quasi-sovereign institutions and companies are also scaling up their engagement with the international financial institutions. The State Administration of Foreign Exchange, one of China's sovereign wealth funds, has invested along with other sovereign wealth funds in the Asset Management Co. of the IFC, its new vehicle for bringing in long-term institutional equity capital into its projects and is the only anchor investor in the EBRD's corresponding instrument. Similar arrangements are being explored on the debt side. Impact on China There is plenty of scope for learning an objective always emphasized by PBOC Governor Zhou Xiaochuan in justifying the push to join the EBRD from China's increased engagement in the international financial institutions. Beyond general development and transition experience there are also specific lessons from investment, for example, so called public-private partnerships (PPP). These arrangements have mushroomed across the country, often as a convenient way of avoiding the borrowing limits of local authorities. There is vast experience of PPPs at international finance institutions, not the least in the EBRD, much of it mixed, but China can learn from this record. More importantly, once China has joined and stepped up from an initial period of watching and learning, it will have to confront the realities of international financial institutions. These bodies are increasingly forced to step into difficult political processes and engage with civil society, an area where Chinese sensitivities are likely to be high. The fears in some corners of Chinese financial mobilization seem overblown. At the end of the day, despite all its increased engagement, and some more voting power reflecting its greater contribution, the country is unlikely to profoundly change how existing institutions operate, and the new institutions, the AIIB and the BRICS bank, will not dramatically alter the multilateral landscape. In fact, by increasingly co-investing with these institutions and participating in their governance, China is more likely to learn how to better invest internationally and ultimately how to make more efficient use of its capital domestically. Erik Berglof is a professor and director of the Institute of Global Affairs at the London School of Economics and Political Science The children of the wealthy in the capital have increasingly better chances of winning a place at Seoul National University than poorer youngsters elsewhere. A report by the state-run Korea Development Institute said in 2000, 90.3 out of every 10,000 high school graduates in Seoul went on to the prestigious university, and that rose to 94.9 in 2011. In contrast, 69.9 out of every 10,000 high school graduates in six other major cities went to SNU in 2000, plunging to a mere 42.7 in 2011. The disparity more than doubled. It was also evident among students from different neighborhoods in Seoul. Among the 22 districts in the capital, the affluent Gangnam and Seocho areas south of the Han River accounted for the highest number of students entering SNU in 1999 and 2011. Some 173 out of every 10,000 high school students in Gangnam went to SNU last year, and 150 from Seocho. In sharp contrast, Gangdong in the western part of the capital saw only 74 entering SNU. Fifteen districts in Seoul sent fewer than 50.2 out of every 10,000 high school students to SNU, which is below the national average. In 2011, 65.7 percent of new students at the university came from the Gangnam, Seocho and Songpa south of the Han River. The main reason behind the disparity is the heavy concentration of private crammers in Seoul and other metropolitan areas, and the gap in spending power of parents in those areas. According to the KDI report, it cost W420,000 on average to send one student to a private crammer in Seoul, compared only W245,000 outside the capital (US$1=W1,091). "Each W100,000 increase in spending on private crammers led to a 0.04 point improvement in the college entrance exam results, while a 20 percent decline in a parent's economic status or surrounding conditions of a student led to 10 percentage point drop in their chances of being admitted to a four-year university, KDI said. Samsung and LG Electronics won numerous awards at the iF Design Awards, one of the three most prestigious design contests in the world. Samsung won a total of 38 awards including a gold award, the event's highest honor, for its Serif TV. A collaboration with French designers Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec, the TV is designed to sit naturally in the home. Other winners include the Galaxy S6 Edge and the Gear S2 wearable device. LG Electronics won 28 awards including three gold prizes for washing machines and refrigerators in its LG Signature premium brand lineup, as well as the Gram 15 laptop. Average per-capita spending on private crammers for schoolkids reached W240,000 a month last year, the most since the government began tallying statistics in 2007 (US$1=W1,238). The statistics were gathered in a survey of 43,000 parents across the nation, but since some of them probably underreported their spending, the total is estimated over W30 trillion overall. Spending had been inching down since 2009 but started growing again since 2013. Total spending on private crammers was down 2.2 percent compared to 2014 at W17.8 trillion, but that was because there are fewer students, the Education Ministry said Friday. The number of students dropped from 6.28 million in 2014 to 6.09 million in 2015, but per-capita spending on private crammers amounted to W240,000 a month last year, up W2,000 from 2014. Spending on crammers for middle- and high-schoolers rose 1.9 and 2.9 percent. Korea and China have agreed to discuss extending their currency swap deal and to boost trade. Finance Minister Yoo Il-ho, in China for G20 finance ministerial talks, met with China's central bank governor Zhou Xiaochuan on Sunday. Currency swap deals allow one side to use its respective currency to obtain U.S. dollars from the other at a pre-determined rate in case of an emergency. Korea and China singed their currency-swap agreement in December 2008, at the onset of the global financial crisis, and have extended it twice so far, allowing Seoul to access up to W64 trillion worth of emergency funds and vice versa (US$1=W1,238). The deal expires in October next year, but both Seoul and Beijing agreed to start renewal talks early to avoid global financial market jitters. Yoo and Zhou also agreed to open a won-yuan exchange market within the first half of this year. The head of North Korea's General Bureau of Reconnaissance has said that the regime will survive regardless of international sanctions. Kim Yong-chol, who has headed the bureau since 2009, also serves as head of the United Front Department, which deals with South Korea. The former CEO of North Korean carmaker Pyeonghwa Motors told the Chosun Ilbo on Sunday that Kim Yong-chol told him North Korea "has not lived a single day without sanctions and will not die from them." Pyeonghwa is a joint venture car company between the two Koreas. Park Sang-kwon related the same comments on TV on Saturday. Park also said that Kim is unhappy that he is constantly being identified in the South Korean media as the mastermind of the sinking of the Navy corvette Cheonan, shelling of Yeonpyeong Island, cyber attacks and box mine attack in the demilitarized zone. "I monitor all South Korean media reports about me and they accuse me of all of the bad things. But Im not capable of doing those things," he quoted Kim as saying. Kim also insisted that the North's latest nuclear test was only aimed at defending the isolated state against a U.S. threat, while North Korean leader Kim Jong-un intends to continue testing long-range rockets until the international community is convinced of their peaceful purpose. Former Finance Minister Rishi Sunak is a potential contender while Penny Mordaunt has become the first official candidate. #Navy plans Navy eyes creation of unmanned command in 2040s South Korea's Navy is seeking to create a new command running unmanned ships, submarines and aircraft in the 2040s, the armed service said Friday, in an effort to address a potenti... #SK data center fire SK C&C's data center raided over massive server outage Police on Friday raided regional offices of SK C&C, the host of the data center for Kakao Corp., in an investigation into a data center fire last week that caused massive servi... There were plenty of Irish in the room but only one man got on stage and went home with an Oscar last night and that man was Benjamin Cleary. Cleary won Best Live Action Short Film for 'Stutterer', a previous winner at the London Critics Circle Awards 2016 amongst many others, and made an acceptance speech last night that would make Irish hearts swell with pride. "Every day is a proud day to be Irish but today more so than usual so everyone for all the support back home thank you so much" told Hollywood and the world last night. Written and directed by Cleary, 'Stutterer' stars Matthew Needham and Chloe Pirrie and made the longlist of 144 short films before making it to the final five. He'll never have to buy himself a pint again. If you want to watch the Oscar winning 'Stutterer', you can check it out on the RTE Player here. If Michael Bay was paid a dollar for every negative review he's gotten in his career, he would've accumulated the box-office of the last Transformers film by now. But for those who know the helmer more for his robot blockbusters, there was once a promising Tony Scott-like action filmmaker in there somewhere, with a strong aesthetic palette and a deft handling of carnage. Often when filmmakers have success, they can become indulgent because there's no one with the balls to tell them, 'No, the film shouldn't be two and a half hours long, it's about Bruce Willis saving the earth from a big rock'. This is pretty much what happened to Bay; but before then there was the fun, Will Smith superstar launcher 'Bad Boys' and, arguably his best film, 'The Rock.' Bay might've just bested The Rock, with this flag waving, earnest and intense but purposeful action thriller about the siege in Benghazi in 2012 that took four American lives. John Krasinski is Jack, a former Navy Seal who joins his mate Rone (an imposing James Badge Dale) in Libya, as part of a six-man security detail hired by the C.I.A to work in a secret Consulate called 'The Annex' in conjunction with local law enforcement. It all goes tits-up when The U.S. Ambassador's compound is attacked. The six men, all contractors, find themselves the only chance The Ambassador and his staff have to survive. What follows is an elongated, bloody siege, that drew strong criticism in the US after political red tape cost American lives. If Bay has nailed one thing aside from action over his career, it's macho back-and-forths between his main players. He couldn't have better characters here to do that with; these are a group of Alpha Males, but family men, just looking to make some money to take home. Boom. Instant depth. Casting the always watchable Krasinski as the core of the film gives an initial vulnerability, but strangely allows the character the space to grow - at least in the eyes of the audience. These men all know what they're doing, are incredible at their jobs, but what transpires is ultimately out of their control. There's a nice nod to Black Hawk Down in one scene, which is apt, both in reality and cinematic terms. This is absolute, utter carnage surrounding a particular event almost still too close to be part of American history, and 13 Hours compares favorably to Ridley Scott's war flick. Anyone looking for two sides to the story here (ala Three Kings) will find obvious frustrations. It's pretty much a siege movie that doesn't offer much in the way of character outside of its six main players and there are a fair amount of moments simply designed to have audiences across the pond air punch 'MERICA. But, it's also an explosive, entertaining and tense watch that proves Bay is a decent director when he wants to be. The European Union yesterday (25 February) formally put an end to all its sanctions against Belarus, including sanctions against Belarussian President Alexander Lukashenko, thanks to the recent improvement in the countrys human rights record. EU foreign ministers made this decision earlier in February after President Lukashenko had released the last political prisoners jailed for challenging his 21-year-long rule and following the presidential elections in October, which were, according to the EU top officials, held in a peaceful environment, though Belarus still had a considerable way to go in fulfilling international standards. EU leadership commented earlier that the release of the political prisoners was a long sought step and together with the October polls, provided an opportunity for EU-Belarus relations to develop on a more positive agenda. While some Member States were still hesitant to drop punitive measures against Minsk, most EU countries agreed that it was the best decision towards better relations with Belarus. Brussels also reminded that Belarus Lukashenko, who has been in power since 1994 and who has been dubbed Europes Last Director, had played a key role in the EU efforts to mediate peace talks between Ukraine and pro-Russian rebels. The host of sanctions included asset freezes and travel bans against 170 individuals and three Belarussian entities. Yet, the end of sanctions is not final for four people who are listed in connection with the unresolved disappearances of two opposition politicians, one businessman and one journalist. The EU will also prolong a long-standing arms embargo for another year. The EU established diplomatic ties with Belarus in 1991 after it had recognized the countrys independence. After the rise to power of Alexander Lukashenko in 1994, mutual relations between both parties deteriorated. The presidential elections in 2010, which saw a landslide victory of almost 80 percent votes for Lukashenko, led to mass demonstrations and the imprisonment of opposition figures and protesters, which the EU described as contravention to human rights and, in response, imposed sanctions against his regime. INTERVIEW with Libor Roucek, former MEP and Vice-President of the European Parliament EUBULLETIN has recently talked with Dr Libor Roucek, a former long-time Member and also a Deputy Chairman of the European Parliament, about the urgent need to create a common European policy to tackle the ongoing migration crisis facing the Union by bridging the diverging approaches between the Visegrad Group (V4) countries and the old EU Member States. EUBULLETIN: During the recent summit of Visegrad Group (V4) Prime Ministers, an idea was suggested that the V4 countries are now finally taken more seriously. What is, in your view, the main message that the Visegrad Group countries Poland, Hungary, Slovakia and Czech Republic intended to send to the rest of the European Union and particularly to the so-called old EU Member States? Roucek: The main message, in my view, was that, yes, in the EU, there are 28 countries, different countries, each with its own opinion so, the V4 countries have their own opinion but the EU as a whole can succeed only if it creates a common European approach, a common European policy. The distinct views of individual EU Member States should be taken into account but we ultimately need to agree on a common European policy. EUBULLETIN: The migration crisis, which has been going on for at least the past one year, is now, some observers say, spinning out of control. Do you think that in this case, the four Visegrad countries agree upon how to deal with the root causes and implications of the crisis for the whole European Union? Roucek: I think there is a high level of agreement within the Visegrad Group but as I mentioned, the V4 countries are not living in a vacuum because they are a part of the EU. Therefore, if we want to succeed, we have to form common European policies. So, yes, V4 approach should be taken into account but if we look closely at it, we will find that the Visegrad approach covers the security perspective and nobody talks about human rights, humanitarian rights and so on this is unlike in countries, such as Germany or Sweden, so we have to marry those two approaches. This is also because V4 countries have different historical experience than those Western European countries that used to have colonies, Great Britain, France, Netherlands and so on. EUBULLETIN: So, in short, you are saying that V4 approach to the migration crisis is driven more by security considerations while the attitudes of Western European countries is shaped less by security but more by humanitarian considerations. Roucek: This was the case in countries, such as Germany or Sweden it was their approach at least at the beginning the so-called Willkommenskultur. Germany opened completely its borders in order to help the refugees but now it is withdrawing because, on the one hand, we should help, but on the other hand, we should also look at the possible impact on our internal situation and, of course, at the security. Because the bombing in Paris or what happened in Cologne on New Years Eve are worrying developments that also need to be taken into account. So, now the countries including Germany or Sweden are looking for ways how to marry those two approaches. EUBULLETIN: The main proposal recently put forward by the V4 Ministers of Foreign Affairs was that they would prefer to implement a similar approach that Hungary adopted last year to erect a fence. Should we interpret it as that the V4 countries will now push the idea that a fence should be built along Greeces northern border with Macedonia? Roucek: You get an impression that the Hungarian strategy of building a fence is a preferred solution to the migration crisis among the V4 countries. However, in my view, we dont want to create internal borders or fences among ourselves because for two generations, the Europeans have been demolishing their internal borders and they have achieved the free movement not only of goods but also of people. When you are in Strasbourg, for example, you see tens of thousands of people working or going shopping to the other side of the border every day. So, nobody can imagine today having a fence or a border. But, and I am saying this from the beginning, if we dont want borders within the EU, we really have to reinforce external border controls because if we look at other large countries, the United States, Canada, Australia, they all carry out effective external borders controls. So, we have to do the same there is no other way. Otherwise, Schengen will collapse and we will have internal border controls reestablished again, which would be a wrong solution a dead-end. Traditional, emerging sectors' fortunes to diverge: report Updated: 2016-02-29 07:41 (Xinhua) A robot plays a musical instrument at a national robots championship contest held at the Harbin Institute of Technology in July 2014. [Photo/IC] BEIJING -- The performances of Chinese enterprises will diverge this year, depending on whether they are in traditional or emerging industries, according to a new report. Companies in emerging sectors will grow rapidly thanks to help from the government as it aims to create new economic engines, the China Enterprise Management Science Foundation (CEMSF) said Sunday. Sectors including robots and intelligent equipment will outpace traditional ones, and high-speed railway and nuclear power face historic opportunities, the report said. Facing the economic slowdown, China is restructuring its industries to sustain growth, encouraging new sectors and reforming the old. High-tech industries grew 10.2 percent year on year in 2015, much higher than the overall industrial increase. Emerging sectors have developed rapidly, accounting for 8 percent of GDP. China's share of high-tech exports in 2014 hit 43.7 percent of all Asian countries, up from 9.4 percent in 2000, according to an Asian Development Bank report. However, the CEMSF forecast large companies in traditional industries will continue to struggle. Factories in heavy industries are still squeezed by excess production and lackluster demand. The government announced in early February that China will slash 150 million tonnes of steel capacity and 500 million tonnes of coal capacity by 2020. The performance of China's large companies appears to be more divided than smaller firms amid the current economic hardships, a survey from China Enterprise Confederation showed. Bulgari targets local shoppers with boutiques Updated: 2016-02-29 07:45 (Agencies) A model wears Bulgari's rings, neck-lace and earrings at a launch in Taipei.CHINA DAILY Bulgari is investing more than ever in China, aiming to tap in to the growing reluctance of Chinese shoppers to buy abroad due to security fears, stricter customs checks and a devaluation of its currency. The world's third-largest watch and jewelry brand, part of luxury goods powerhouse LVMH, plans to open two boutiques in the Chinese mainland this year, Bulgari's CEO said, on top of three last year. "If you see there is a potential swing with more mainland and less travel proportion, it's one more reason to speed up your mainland investments," Bulgari Chief Executive Jean-Christophe Babin told Reuters. China's economy grew 6.9 percent last year, its slowest rate in 25 years, putting a damper on Chinese sales of everything from food to trips abroad. These foreign visits have often been a launch pad for purchases of luxury items, since they would avoid the hefty taxes levied in China. But Babin said some Chinese consumers have become nervous about traveling to Europe and other places, due to the November attacks in Paris, where 130 people were killed. "If we sell fewer watches to Chinese when they travelParis obviously because people are a bit scaredwe see conversely a strong increase in our business in the Chinese mainland." The shift to domestic purchases is also being fueled by the depreciation of the Chinese currency, which makes it more expensive to buy abroad, as well as stepped-up checks by Chinese customs on purchases made abroad. Chinese tourists returning from overseas trips are becoming subject to stricter-than-ever customs controls on what they bring back, Babin said, adding that watches are subject to a 30 percent levy plus a penalty that is a multiple of that for anyone caught not declaring the purchase. "People are quite scared to buy a $10,000 watch in Hong Kong, Zurich or Tokyo and eventually have to pay twice as much as they originally paid," Babin said. Bulgari, with annual sales estimated between 1.5 and 2 billion euros, is No 3 behind Richemont's Cartier and Tiffany. "More than ever, it makes a lot of sense for Bulgari to invest in China," said Babin. Chinese consumers, whether shopping at home or abroad, make up more than 30 percent of sales of Swiss watches, and are notorious lovers of luxury goods in general. Babin declined to give specific sales figures for its divisions, which also include leather goods and hotels. Through Oct. 31, 9 a.m.-8 p.m. Chatham Area Public Library 600 E. Spruce, Chatham Chatham Free Books & Authors The 4th Annual Library Crawl will take place in October. This is a fun time of visiting other public libraries and discovering their wonderful collections and buildings. Each library you visit will stamp your Passport. Visit 5 or more libraries other than your home library, turn in your Passport back at your home library, and youll be eligible for a cool prize drawing. Springfield Area Libraries participating are:* Athens Public Library*Auburn Public Library*Chatham Area Public Library*Divernon Public Library*Lincoln Library*Petersburg Public Library*Rochester Public Library Happy Crawling! 217-483-2713 Testosterone Oxytocin Cortisol Leptin Thyroid Hormone Every person in the world has one thing in common is the need for fat loss. Unfortunately, this is a common scenario for many people. Thats why its important to know what hormones or steroids are available that can help you reach your goal sooner and more efficiently. If you are interested in buying weight loss steroids, then a Great place to buy weight loss steroids at LAWeekly . Five essential hormones can help increase your metabolism and burn calories at a faster rate. They are all easy to use, just like any other hormone supplement would be.Testosterone is a natural hormone that is mainly produced in males. It is the best testosterone booster you can get when burning fat even if you have a low testosterone level. You need some testosterone to make your muscles hard and your body feel healthier. The best thing about this hormone supplement is that its use does not require a prescription for any condition. More importantly, this drug has no side effects and should be used only by adults.This hormone regulates fertility. However, this is not the only reason why it is so popular. Oxytocin helps you increase your connection and trust with other people, which makes some people addicted. Sometimes, oxytocin is used instead of morphine because of its analgesic effect. Nowadays, oxytocin fat burners are very popular among women and men who want to get rid of extra calories. Oxytocin is beneficial to lose weight faster without any side effects.Cortisol reduces stress and increases blood pressure levels in the body. It also increases blood sugar levels, contributing to more energy during a workout session or sports activities. The best thing about cortisol is that it can increase your metabolism, making it the perfect hormone for people who dont have the time and energy to go to the gym to lose fat.This is a direct response to the leptin level in your body. If it becomes too low, your hunger will increase, and you will feel inclined to eat more food than needed. Leptin can help suppress that feeling and regulate your eating habits and diet plans for losing weight fast.T3 and T4 are the hormones that promote healthy metabolism, essential for burning more calories. The only drawback to these two hormones is that they require prescriptions like any other hormone supplement and from a specialist. So whenever you want to take thyroid hormone pills, you should always check with your doctor first if it is right for you or not. There is no point in risking your health just because you dont have enough money for prescription drugs.Eating less and working out more is not the only way to lose weight. You need to do it faster and easier if you want to see results in a short time. The five hormones listed above can help you burn calories faster than ever without any effort at all. by Barbara RimkunasThis "Historically Speaking" column was published by theon Friday, February 26, 2016.At Exeters Leap Year party in 1892, held at the Town Hall, the brilliantly lighted hall was beautiful with elaborate decorations of flags, streamers and palms. At 8 oclock Edneys orchestra of Haverhill, 12 pieces, began a delightful concert of six numbers. Dancing immediately began, and continued until one, when an order of 20 numbers had been completed. In the intermission ices and light refreshments were served by caterer Hervey. The attendance was very large. Thetouted it as, emphatically the social event of the year. Leap Year parties were held again in 1896 and 1904, although scaled-down considerably.February 29th Leap Day is terribly underrated. Calendars usually tick along in a logical way and then suddenly every four years we throw an extra day into the mix to keep us on the correct orbital date. Salaried workers who clock in on the 29th are working an extra day for free a bit of enjoyable revenge for all the hourly employees out there who get cheated working the night shift when daylight saving time changes to standard time. But then, Leap Years are always crazy anyway, falling as they do during presidential elections and the Olympic Games. Leap Day itself is rarely celebrated, although by all rights it should be. If you search for Leap Day events on the internet a whole host of crafty art projects usually involving frogs turn up. Leap Day is unusually popular with public libraries and nature organizations. One can also find various elementary schools holding special celebrations, although New Hampshires quirky winter break schedule often makes Leap Day a vacation day.Exeters most famous Leap Day occurred in 1860, when Abraham Lincoln stepped off the train at the depot on Front Street for a six day visit to New Hampshire. Lincolns son, Robert, was attending Phillips Exeter Academy to prepare for his Harvard entrance exams. Abraham Lincoln, who was not considered a potential candidate for the presidential election, came east to make a speech in New York. His speech at the Cooper Union Institute on February 27th, in which he addressed the problem of slavery and its potential spread to the western territories, was widely reprinted. Arriving in Exeter on the 29th, Lincoln met up with Robert and travelled throughout the state to Concord, Manchester and Dover before addressing Exeters citizens on March 3rd at the Town Hall. He stretched his time with Robert until March 5th, after which he continued to make speeches throughout New England. This eastern trip introduced him to the voting public propelling him to the nomination at the Republican convention in May. And he first placed his big foot on Exeter soil on Leap Day. For that reason alone we deserve a party.And yet, Leap Day goes by each year without fanfare. A 2012 episode of Tina Feys TV sitcom, 30 Rock created a world in which Leap Day was celebrated with the arrival of Leap Day William a jovial character who tosses candy to children and penalizes anyone not wearing the official Leap Day colors of yellow and blue. Of course, no such fun actually exists in our world. The only Leap Day tradition to be found is a somewhat suspect practice of women proposing marriage to men if he refuses, he must pay a penalty. Possibly an old Irish custom, in the United States it sounds a bit like Sadie Hawkins Day, which is celebrated on November 15th.A Leap Day birthday can be both distinctive and troublesome. Statistically, the chances of being born on February 29th are about one in 1,461 (give or take the missing three leap days every 400 years). Checking Exeters birth records since 1887, when they were first recorded in the annual town report, there have only been 24 babies born on Leap Day. 1956, the height of the baby boom, holds the record with five births, although it was much more common for the date to have no births at all. Since 1960, there have been only four Leap babies; Cordelia Cayten is one of them. Now an adult living out-of-state, she had this to say about her birthday, I remember that there was a news article written about me and a few other seacoast area leap year babies back when we were born, and one of the mothers said something like I never believed in leap year babies but now that I have one I guess I do! And I thought, how on earth can you not believe in people being born on a day that exists on our calendar? Still, her birthday does give her immediate acceptance into the Honor Society of Leap Day Babies. Members refer to their age with a leap designation, such as 4 at 16 or 6 at 24 to indicate the number of leap and chronological birthdays. Problems such as when to celebrate ones birthday on a non-leap year are discussed on their website. Most choose to go with February 28th. Called strict Februarists they hold that leap births can only be in February. Can you get a free meal on your birthday in a non-leap year?It only happens every four years, so make the most of February 29th. At Exeters 1896 party, held at Unity Hall on Elm Street, thereported, the hall was very prettily trimmed with yellow and white bunting. Perhaps at least part of the 30 Rock color scheme can be considered traditional. We all need a bit more yellow in our lives at this time of the year. Maybe try doing something a bit out of the ordinary on Leap Day. Its no ordinary day, after all, even Cordelia admits to that. All said though, I'd rather have my birthday be this weird unappreciated day than some lame normal day.Image: The famous Matthew Brady photo of Lincoln taken on the day he delivered his Cooper Union speech. This is what he looked like when he arrived two days later on Leap Day in Exeter. Rubio's moving pipes and water as an equivalent to meeting the challenge of global warming is absurd. Recently, the World Economic Forum in Davos stated that for the first time, that climate change is the number one threat to the global economy. An Everglades advocate said, about twenty years ago, "Restoring the Everglades is a test. If we pass, we may get to keep the planet." The meaning: all the players are on the field, including legislators like Marco Rubio. If we can't fix what is wrong with the Everglades, where so many science-based variables in the environment are well understood, we will never be able to solve global problems. In his record as a leader of the Florida legislature and in the US Senate, Rubio showed no inclination to get at the root problem of the Everglades: dealing with his main source of support from Big Sugar. In fact, Rubio did the opposite: helping to secure appropriations to "mitigate" flooding to protect developers. What Rubio tells Maribel Balbin, below, is not to worry about climate change: we will mitigate it just like we did with flooding in West Miami twenty years ago. Solving climate change is not a Lego set guided by enthusiasms of American exceptionalism, but that is exactly how it is in Marco Rubio's thinking. Listen, here, at :30 minutes: Marco Rubio's shallow grasp of critical policy issues should have held him back long ago. A revealing moment was captured in New Hampshire, when a fellow Cuban American from Miami questioned him in Spanish about global warming.(Tune in, at the YouTube clip below, at :30 minute.) For many years, Rubio has been a denier. He has also refused even to meet with scientists. His rote talking points to Maribel Balbin are revealing.First, "mitigation" is flat out impossible with climate change.Marco Rubio came to political life in a small city council; a municipality that connects within Florida's largest and most politically influential county. In Miami-Dade, the mother's milk of local politics flows from developers' campaign contributions. If there is an environmental problem related to flooding, the solution is buying pumps and dredging canals. That is exactly how Rubio responds to Maribel Balbin: the solution to climate change is "mitigation". Your digital subscription includes access to all content on our agricultural websites across the nation. Access unlimited content and the digital versions of our print editions - This Week's Paper. Why is Crude Oil Consolidating? (Continued from Prior Part) Moving averages Currently, the US-based (QQQ) (VOO) integrated energy sector is trading at par with its 100-day moving average on an average basis. Chevron (CVX) was trading 3.1% below its 100-day moving average. On February 19, 2015, the stock crossed its 100-day moving average. It was supported by the positive movement of crude oil on that day. However, the stock fell below its 100-day moving average on February 24, 2015. The stock was impacted due to crude oils negative movement. On that day, Saudi Arabias oil minister discussed not cutting production levels. This news spooked crude oils positive movement. ExxonMobil (XOM) was trading 3.3% above its 100-day moving average. However, Occidental Petroleum (OXY) was trading 0.1% below its 100-day moving average. Both of the socks were trading 2.4% and 2.7% above their respective 20-day moving averages. Wall Street analysts consensus estimates Wall Street analysts consensus estimates indicate a 4.6% upside for integrated energy companies. Over the next 12 months, Chevron could see a rise of 10.60% from its levels on February 25, 2016. Wall Street analysts estimates for other major integrated energy sector companies for the next 12 months are as follows: ExxonMobil could be flat for the next 12 months Occidental Petroleum could see an upside of 5.3% Browse this series on Market Realist: U.S.-court appointed mediator Daniel Pollack arrives, at his midtown Manhattan office for a meeting on Argentina's debt crisis, in New York February 1, 2016. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid By Daniel Bases NEW YORK (Reuters) - Sovereign debt settlement talks between the government of Argentina and holdout bondholders stemming from an historic default in 2002 made further progress on Wednesday, the court appointed mediator, Daniel Pollack, said in a statement. "Some progress was made today. Discussions will continue tomorrow," Pollack said. Thursday's discussions between Argentine Finance Secretary Luis Caputo and various holdout investors would mark the fourth straight day of meetings between the two sides in the dispute. In the U.S. courts there are $9 billion worth of claims against Argentina that remain to be settled, Pollack said in a statement at the start of this round of talks on Monday. Caputo, a former bond trader with Deutsche Bank, sits at the negotiating table with a market mindset that is different from the previous government's chief negotiator, former Economy Minister Axel Kicillof, an economist and academic. One source familiar with the discussions in New York said the talks could extend potentially through to Friday. A second source familiar with the talks characterized the discussions as "intense and highly complex" given different investor groups are now involved rather than just the main holdouts led by Elliott Management and Aurelius Capital Management. In November 2014, Pollack was given authority by presiding U.S. District Judge Thomas Griesa to grant other holdout investors a seat at the negotiating table. Argentina appears to be working systematically to settle with those various holdout groups. On Tuesday, Finance Minister Alfonso Prat-Gay, an ex-banker with JPMorgan Chase & Co, announced a settlement with Italian creditors who hold unpaid sovereign debt. Argentina will pay them $1.35 billion in cash. That represents a payment of 150 percent on the $900 million principal value of the defaulted bonds. Any deal the administration of newly elected President Mauricio Macri reaches with holdout bondholders is subject to approval in Argentina's congress where Macri does not hold a majority. Story continues While in New York Caputo has said on several occasions that he sees progress and has met with several different holdout investors. Press reports on Wednesday indicate he reiterated that talks remain informal and in confidence. However, it is still unclear whether or not Argentina has signed a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) that Elliott and Aurelius demanded. The government has insisted that they have to operate with open and transparent discussions. The second source familiar with the negotiations says the government has not signed the NDA. (Reporting By Daniel Bases; Editing by Andrew Hay) NEW YORK, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Argentina and its main holdout creditors on Monday reached a $4.653 billion agreement in principle to settle a sovereign debt default dispute that has lasted 14 years in a move that could help to revive the country's economy. The deal, agreed late on Sunday and announced by the New York court-appointed mediator Daniel Pollack on Monday, says the agreement between the government and the four largest remaining holdout creditors represents 75 percent of their full judgments, including principle and interest. "This is a giant step forward in this long-running litigation, but not the final step," Pollack said in his statement. "The Agreement in Principle is subject to approval by the Congress of Argentina and, specifically, the lifting of the Lock Law and the Sovereign Payment Law, enacted under an earlier Administration and which would bar such settlements," he said. (Reporting By Daniel Bases) By Rajesh Kumar Singh and Ruma Paul DHAKA (Reuters) - Bangladesh's clothing exports are booming, defying fears that recent killings by Islamist militants might prompt Western brands to go elsewhere to source their garments. Along with relief among manufacturers, who are the mainstay of the South Asian nation's economy, comes the reality that already slim profit margins are being eroded further, as pressure for cost savings and improved safety intensifies. "It's fast becoming a business where only the fittest can survive," said Atiqul Islam, one of Bangladesh's biggest garment exporters, whose clients include H&M (HMb.ST). It could have been worse. For months, executives from Western retailers who source cheap clothes from Bangladesh avoided visiting the country, worried by rising violence, including the murder of two foreigners. Meetings with suppliers were held in Dubai, New Delhi and Singapore. M. Shafiqul Azim, general manager at an apparel exporter, had to hire private guards to convince an Italian technician to travel to Dhaka last year for a plant inspection. The World Bank warned militancy could derail Bangladesh's path to becoming a middle-income country. For now, though, the concerns appear to be easing, and recent figures show the $26 billion (18.6 billion) garment export sector is growing faster than many had dared predict. "It was a temporary setback," Islam told Reuters. "After two to three months, the visits resumed." A Western diplomat in the capital Dhaka attributed the change to a swift response from the government and the support provided by local police. After the killings last year, Dhaka deployed paramilitary soldiers on night-time patrols in the diplomatic quarter and issued a nationwide ban on people riding pillion after two attacks were carried out by masked men riding motorbikes. SHRINKING MARGINS Between October and January, Bangladeshi factories exported garments worth $9.3 billion, up about 14 percent from a year ago, government data showed. Exports to the United States saw a 16 percent annual jump in December. Story continues Azim, who supplies to Wal-Mart (WMT.N), says his order book is up 15 percent. Buoyed by strong demand, his firm - r-pac - is investing $10 million to set up a new factory. Bangladesh's resilience boils down to a combination of the world's lowest wages after Myanmar and Sri Lanka, the right skills and the fact that China has become less competitive in recent years. The minimum monthly wage for garment workers in Bangladesh is $68, compared with about $280 in mainland China, which nevertheless remains the world's biggest garment exporter. In a global survey of leading apparel producers last year, consultant McKinsey predicted 7-9 percent annual growth for the sector over the next five years. Still, garment exporters worry about profit margins being squeezed due to increased compliance costs in the wake of the 2013 Rana Plaza factory collapse in which more than 1,100 people died, and a push from buyers to further reduce costs. Islam estimated that most of Bangladesh's garment exporters were operating with a profit margin of just three percent. He added that firms like his are also spending an average of $700,000 on upgrading facilities to meet safety compliance standards, but buyers are not ready to bear the cost. Adding to the strain, garment exporters are under pressure to further reduce prices to retain customers. "Every year they ask for a 2-3 percent price cut," Islam said. To protect margins, some manufacturers have invested in automation. At Azim's factory, for example, machines are already doing the bulk of the work, while Islam has just spent $500,000 to import 70 new machines from Italy. H&M declined to comment for this article. Walmart's spokeswoman, Marilee McInnis, said the company was making investments through an inspection group led by the North American brands, the Alliance for Bangladesh Worker Safety. H&M is a signatory to the Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh, a mainly European grouping. "Bangladesh is an important sourcing market for the industry," said McInnis, director of international corporate affairs at Walmart. "It is important that investments in Bangladesh continue." (Additional reporting by Serajul Quadir in DHAKA, Anna Rinsgstrom in STOCKHOLM and Siddharth Cavale; Editing by Mike Collett-White and Paritosh Bansal) Good morning, Broadsheet readers! Valentina (@valzarya) here. Amy wins an Oscar, Hillary Clinton looks toward a Super Tuesday sweep, and Melissa Harris-Perry is officially off the air. Happy leap day! See original article on Fortune.com More from Fortune.com EVERYONE'S TALKING [bs_bullet_primary] No elephant at the Oscars. In a controversial monologue at Sunday night's Academy Awards, host Chris Rock addressed the fact that there were no black nominees head-on, while also suggesting that there is no justifiable reason for gendered acting categories. Speaking of female winners, Brie Larson and Alicia Vikander took home Oscars for best actress and best supporting actress, respectively. "Amy," a look at the rise and loss of Amy Winehouse, won for best documentary feature. ALSO IN THE HEADLINES [bs_bullet_primary] HRC takes SC. On the heels of a major win in South Carolina on Saturday, Hillary Clinton turns her attention to "Super Tuesday," when a dozen states will hold their nominating contests. Clinton is expected to widen her lead against Bernie Sanders, thanks largely to African-American voters. [bs_link link="http://www.cnn.com/2016/02/28/politics/clinton-sanders-super-tuesday/" source="CNN"] [bs_bullet_primary] Meg's unimpressed. Meg Whitman, CEO of Hewlett-Packard and the former finance co-chair of Chris Christie's presidential campaign, denounced the New Jersey Governor's endorsement of Donald Trump, calling it "an astonishing display of political opportunism." [bs_link link="http://fortune.com/2016/02/28/christie-endorsement-slammed/" source="Fortune"] [bs_bullet_primary] No more Melissa. Melissa Harris-Perry's MSNBC show has been cancelled after a clash with the network over airtime and editorial freedom. "I am not a token, mammy, or little brown bobble head," the television host wrote in an email to the network's staff members on Friday. Two days later, the network comfirmed it had "parted ways" with Harris-Perry. [bs_link link="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/29/business/media/melissa-harris-perry-is-out-at-msnbc-cable-network-confirms.html" source="New York Times"] Story continues [bs_bullet_primary] Uh oh, HR. One in five human resources managers admit that men at their companies earn more than women doing the same work. [bs_link link="http://fortune.com/2016/02/26/hr-managers-wage-gap/" source="Fortune"] [bs_bullet_primary] All too real. We see what it's like to be a woman trying to raise venture capital through the eyes of Doxa co-founder Nathalie Miller, a former Instacart exec. "How high can I stack the cards against myself--a pregnant brown woman?" she asks. [bs_link link="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/28/upshot/what-its-really-like-to-risk-it-all-in-silicon-valley.html" source="New York Times"] MOVERS AND SHAKERS: GroupSJR, a creative agency under the WPP umbrella, has hired marketing vet and former Xerox CMO Christa Carone as its COO. MPW INSIDER MONDAYS Each week, Fortune asks our Insider Network -- an online community of prominent people in business and beyond -- for career and leadership advice. Here's some of the best of what we heard last week. [bs_bullet_primary] Mentors mean less. In a woman's career, sponsorship is much more important than mentorship, writes Teresa Briggs, vice chair and West region managing partner at Deloitte. [bs_link link="http://fortune.com/2016/02/24/mentoring-female-leaders/" source="Fortune"] [bs_bullet_primary] Startups step-by-step. Avery Roth, founder and CEO of The Startup Consulting Group, has a four-step process for coming up with a really good business idea. [bs_link link="http://fortune.com/2016/02/23/good-business-ideas-entrepreneurs/" source="Fortune"] [bs_bullet_primary] No "I" in team. Every day you come into work, it's the company name on your sweatshirt and not your name, says Stephanie Linnartz, EVP and global COO for Marriott International. [bs_link link="http://fortune.com/2016/02/27/20-something-wrong-success/" source="Fortune"] IN CASE YOU MISSED IT [bs_bullet_primary] Still a leap. Irish tradition dictates that on Feb. 29th, or "leap day," gender roles are reversed and a woman can ask for a man's hand in marriage. The Times' Alix Strauss dives into the rite's history and why women still rarely pop the question. [bs_link link="http://www.nytimes.com/2016/02/28/fashion/weddings/women-proposing-leap-year.html" source="New York Times"] [bs_bullet_primary] Daddy's girl? Isabel dos Santos, daughter of Angola's longtime ruler Jos? Eduardo dos Santos, is Africa's wealthiest woman. There has long been speculation that her money comes from her father's access to state oil revenue but, in a rare interview, she insists that she is "not financed by any state money or any public funds." [bs_link link="http://www.wsj.com/articles/africas-richest-woman-draws-scrutiny-over-source-of-wealth-1456569004" source="WSJ"] [bs_bullet_primary] Doing it together. Hollywood heavy hitters Jessica Chastain, Queen Latifah, Juliette Binoche and Catherine Hardwicke are helping to launch We Do It Together, a nonprofit film production company focused on film and TV projects that empower women. [bs_link link="http://variety.com/2016/film/news/jessica-chastain-queen-latifah-female-empowerment-production-company-1201714218/" source="Variety"] Share today's Broadsheet with a friend: http://fortune.com/newsletter/broadsheet/ Looking for previous Broadsheets? Click here. ON MY RADAR Girl Scouts CEO Anna Maria Ch?vez on kicking down barriers for young girls [bs_link link="http://fortune.com/2016/02/29/anna-maria-chavez-video/" source="Fortune"] I prosecuted O.J. Simpson. Here's what I learned about race and justice in America. [bs_link link="http://www.vox.com/2016/2/25/11105096/marcia-clark-oj-simpson" source="Vox"] The best African American figure skater is now broke and living in a trailer [bs_link link="https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/social-issues/the-mystery-of-why-the-best-african-american-figure-skater-in-history-went-bankrupt-and-lives-in-a-trailer/2016/02/25/a191972c-ce99-11e5-abc9-ea152f0b9561_story.html" source="Washington Post"] Why this airline is being sued for sexism [bs_link link="http://fortune.com/2016/02/26/el-al-sexism/" source="Fortune"] Note: In last Friday's Broadsheet, I mistakenly referred to Julia Hartz as the co-founder and CEO of Eventbrite. She is the co-founder and president. QUOTE [bs_quote title="Final Thought...." quote= "You can't have the kinds of jobs I've had and be universally liked. When I used to get upset, I'd think: 'I've worked for Hillary Clinton--she's had more horrible stuff said about her than anybody. If she can do it, I can.'" source= "Anne-Marie Slaughter" link="http://www.theguardian.com/lifeandstyle/2016/feb/27/anne-marie-slaughter-care-is-not-a-womans-job-any-more-than-breadwining-is-a-mans" link_source="The Guardian"] Canada's Finance Minister Bill Morneau speaks during Question Period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, Canada, February 22, 2016. REUTERS/Chris Wattie OTTAWA (Reuters) - Canada and the European Union said on Monday they had settled their remaining disagreements over a landmark free trade treaty and expressed confidence it might come into force next year. The two sides wrapped up negotiations in 2014 on the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA). But opponents in Canada and EU expressed concern about provisions designed to protect investors from state interference, saying they gave too much power to multinational firms. In a joint statement, Canada and the EU said they had made changes to increase the rights of governments to regulate and also setting up a permanent and transparent dispute-settlement tribunal. "We have responded to Canadians, EU citizens, and businesses with a fairer, more transparent, system... We are confident that CETA will be signed in 2016 and will enter into force in 2017," the two sides said in the statement. The agreement could in theory make it easier for the EU to negotiate a separate free trade deal with the United States, where talks have bogged down over opposition to the provisions on settling investor-state disputes. (Reporting by David Ljunggren; Editing by Bill Rigby) SANTIAGO, CL--(Marketwired - February 29, 2016) - On May 16-18, senior mining leaders from Chile and Argentina will meet with international renewable energy, finance and government experts to explore affordable and sustainable energy solutions at the 2nd annual Energy and Mines Santiago Summit. Following the tremendous success of last year's inaugural Summit, this year's event will deliver business critical updates on Chile's new transmission and energy efficiency laws which will have a major impact on energy strategies for mines and development plans for the renewables sector. In an attempt to secure stable power at affordable prices, the Chilean resource sector is looking to invest in renewables for remote and grid-tied sites. Along with the latest case studies of mines integrating renewables in Chile, the Summit will provide strategic insight on emerging opportunities for mining and renewables partnerships in neighboring Argentina. "For the mining industry, all the lessons that we learn at the Summit will be very important," comments Veronica Baraona, Glencores Head of Regulatory Affairs and a Director at Enami, who is speaking at the Summit. "It is key to develop alternative technologies and use cleaner and cheaper energies to guarantee our competitiveness in the market. We have great expectations for this high-level Summit and are very excited to participate." Vice President of the Chilean Copper Commission, Sergio Hernandez, who will address transmission challenges and developments at the conference, also highlights the importance of the event. "We see the Summit as an important platform to analyze all mining processes where renewable integration is a real possibility. For us, it's key to understand the current barriers and potential use of renewables for the Chilean mining industry," he says. The Summit agenda features 21 senior mining executives sharing their energy strategies and discussing the role of renewables in driving down energy costs. Speakers include senior representatives from Anglo American, Barrick Gold, BHP Billiton, Codelco, Collahuasi, Cerro GrandeMining Corporation, Glencore, Goldcorp, Haldeman Mining Company, KGHM, SCM Lumina Copper,Minera Constanza, Minera Rafaela, Mountainstar Gold, Minera Berta, SQM, U308, Kinross Gold and Teck Resources. Story continues Additionally, energy decision-makers from mines including Alimana, Alxar Mineria, Antofagasta, Gold Fields, Mantos de Luna, Minera Constanza, Minera Lumina Copper, Minera San Pedro, Minera Tres Valles, Minera Berta, Quiborax, and Minera Cerro Negro have confirmed their participation. Siemens is the Main Sponsor for this high-caliber Summit and SolarReserve is also sponsoring. The event will explore partnership opportunities for mines and renewables for both utility-scale projects in Chile and remote microgrids across the region. It also provides a timely opportunity for renewables developers and suppliers to network with key representatives from the Chilean Ministry of Energy. For more information on the Summit, visit http://santiago.energyandmines.com/ About Energy and Mines - Connecting Mining and Renewables: Energy and Mines is the leading global information and event media provider for energy management and operations of the mining sector. Through its global Summit series, web portal and newsletter, Energy and Mines brings together the mining and renewable energy sectors to drive solutions for affordable, reliable and sustainable power for mines. www.energyandmines.com thaad missile lockheed A Chinese ambassador has warned South Korea that the deployment of a US anti-missile system against North Korea would destroy the flourishing ties between the two countries. Chinese Ambassador Qiu Guohong warned Kim Chong-in, the chairman of South Korea's main opposition party, that the basing of the US-made THAAD missile system in South Korea would irreparably damage relations between the countries, The Chosunilbo reports. "Much effort has been made to develop bilateral ties to today's level, but these efforts could be destroyed in an instant with a single problem," Qiu warned Kim on Tuesday. Qiu also warned Kim, during their 45 minute meeting, that the deployment of the US missile system would lead to an arms race in East Asia that would ultimately be to the detriment of all nations involved. The THAAD deployment, Qiu said, "would break the strategic balance in the region and create a vicious cycle of Cold War-style confrontations and an arms race, which could escalate tensions." The US and South Korea have reportedly worked out a deal in which Washington will provide Seoul with the ant-missile system. The THAAD is the most advanced missile system on the planet, and is able to intercept missiles with a 100% success rate. The deployment of the THAAD system would be aimed at North Korea in order to provide protection for South Korea, Japan, and US assets from potential North Korean ballistic missiles. However, China opposes the placement of the missiles in South Korea as it believes that the anti-missile system would also be used against Chinese and Russian interests. "I do not deny the fact that THAAD would play a role in protecting [South] Korea, but it will inevitably target China and Russia," Qiu said on Tuesday. Hypothetically, the THAAD system could indeed be used against Chinese missiles in South Korea. However, the deployment of the weapon system will be angled in such a way as to protect Seoul from North Korea without targeting China at all. Story continues The following graphic shows a likely placement of the THAAD system in South Korea: thaad china NOW WATCH: Meet THAAD: Americas answer to North Korean threats More From Business Insider WEST KELOWNA, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Feb 29, 2016) - COLORADO RESOURCES LTD. (TSX VENTURE:CXO) ("Colorado" or the "Company") announces an update on the KSP Property under option from SnipGold Corp. (see News Release dated December 20, 2013). Colorado's compilation and reporting over the winter months highlighted not only the new discoveries of porphyry copper-gold style mineralization at the Tami and Pins Zones (see news releases dated October7 & 8, 2015) but also the high grade gold targets at Inel. 1.27 g/t Average Gold in Soil Anomaly Over 1.5 km2 at Inel At Inel, a compilation of 1,215 soil samples (492 taken by CXO) in a 8.5 km2 area averaged 800 ppb gold and also highlighted a 1,000m x 1,500m area with 628 soil samples averaging 1,270 ppb gold (1.27 g/t gold) with a maximum value of 31,200 ppb gold (31.2 g/t gold). This 1.5 km2 anomalous gold in soil area is considerably larger than the areas tested by previous drillholes (Discovery Zone 0.35 km2 and AK Zone 0.25 km2). In many instances strong gold in soil anomalies occur > 500m from, and often uphill of, historical drilling (see Figure 1: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/CXO0229.pdf). Colorado's Geological Compilation Confirms Three Favorable > 1 km Trends Colorado's surface geological work and review of historical drill logs indicate that in the Inel area there are at least three north trending > 1km long, gently dipping, stacked target zones within the 1.5 km2 Inel soil anomaly that are associated with the margins of mafic intrusions. Other, as of yet unidentified trends are likely to occur that would explain the gold in soil anomalies upslope of known mineralization. Significant Historical Drilling Results- Only 1/4 of Favorable Trends Tested Historical drilling at Inel was completed from 1984-1991 and consisted of both small AQ and BQ sized underground and surface drillholes with only approximately 40% of the drillcore sampled. A review of these drill hole results in the context of new geological understanding, indicates that the favorable trends have only been drill tested over approximately one quarter of their combined +3 km prospective strike lengths. Significant results were historically encountered such as drillhole IS130 returning 423.8 g/t gold over 3.5m at the Inel Creek Zone, drillhole IS116 returning 20.9 g/t gold over 7.4m at the AK Zone and drillhole IU040 returning 30.3 g/t gold over 4.0m at the Discovery Zone*. Story continues Compelling Drill Targets- 5,000m Drill Program Planned Based on Colorado's surface geological work it is now understood that these historical high grade gold drill intercepts are located along mineralized intrusive-sediment contacts, which have good strike continuity. The presence of at least three laterally continuous intrusive bodies which are spatially associated with these large (>1.25 km2) gold in soil anomalies provides a number of compelling near surface drill targets. Colorado plans a 5,000m larger NQ sized diamond drill program to commence this summer. Qualified Person Greg Dawson, P.Geo is the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 who supervised the preparation of the technical data discussed in this news release. * Cautionary Note Previous exploration over a 8.5 km2 area at Inel includes over 190 historic drillholes, 6,500m of drillcore assays, 723 soil samples and 1100 rock chip, channel and grab samples. These samples were collected prior to the Company's involvement and have not been independently verified. The Company has collected 135m of drillcore assays on the un-sampled historical drillcore, 492 soil samples and 400 rock chip, channel and grab samples in the area which generally confirm these previous exploration results. The historical drill intercepts quoted represent core lengths and there has been insufficient exploration to date to indicate whether or not they may represent the true thicknesses of the mineralized intervals. The KSP project is an early-stage target conceptual in nature. There has been insufficient exploration to define a mineral resource and it is uncertain if further exploration will result in the target being delineated as a mineral resource. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF COLORADO RESOURCES LTD. Adam Travis, President and Chief Executive Officer Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements Certain statements contained in this news release, constitute "forward-looking information" as such term is used in applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking information is based on plans, expectations and estimates of management at the date the information is provided and is subject to certain factors and assumptions, including: that the Company's financial condition and development plans do not change as a result of unforeseen events, that the Company obtains required regulatory approvals, that the Company continues to maintain a good relationship with the local project communities. Forward-looking information is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause plans, estimates and actual results to vary materially from those projected in such forward-looking information. Factors that could cause the forward-looking information in this news release to change or to be inaccurate include, but are not limited to, the risk that any of the assumptions referred to prove not to be valid or reliable, which could result in delays, or cessation in planned work, that the Company's financial condition and development plans change, delays in regulatory approval, risks associated with the interpretation of data, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits, the possibility that results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations, as well as the other risks and uncertainties applicable to mineral exploration and development activities and to the Company as set forth in the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis reports filed under the Company's profile at www.sedar.com. There can be no assurance that any forward-looking information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, the reader should not place any undue reliance on forward-looking information or statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information or statements, other than as required by applicable law. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. By Bruno Federowski SAO PAULO, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Most Latin American currencies strengthened on Monday after China announced fresh stimulus measures, but the Chilean peso was steady as weak economic data boosted bets that the central bank could hold rates steady for longer. Chile's industrial output fell in January, hit by weakness in mining activity as copper production slumped 13.8 percent from the year before. Miners have been scaling back their operations as weak demand in top-consumer China keeps copper prices near multi-year lows. "All in all, today's data suggest the economy remained weak at the start of 2016," Adam Collins, assistant economist with Capital Economics, wrote in a client note. "Monetary policy is also likely to remain accommodative given the fragile nature of the economy." Chile's central bank held its benchmark rate steady at 3.5 percent in February, but minutes from the meeting showed policymakers considered an increase. Other Latin American currencies strengthened after China's central bank cut its reserve requirements ratio as it seeks to cushion a painful transition to a consumption-driven economy. Higher crude prices also helped lift currencies from oil-heavy economies, such as the Mexican peso and the Colombian pesos. Shares of Brazilian state-controlled oil company Petroleo Brasileiro SA rose, boosting the country's benchmark Bovespa stock index. An up to $10 billion credit line from China Development Bank could help Petrobras, as the company is known, pay nearly all its $12 billion in maturing debt in 2016, a source told Reuters on Friday. Key Latin American stock indexes and currencies at 1500 GMT: Stock indexes daily % YTD % change change Latest MSCI Emerging Markets 739.00 -0.14 -6.81 MSCI LatAm 1793.87 0.92 -2.85 Brazil Bovespa 42259.95 1.6 -2.51 Mexico IPC 43368.03 -0.24 0.91 Chile IPSA 3713.85 0.06 0.91 Chile IGPA 18247.69 0.05 0.53 Argentina MerVal 13195.54 2.05 13.02 Colombia IGBC 9187.03 0.05 7.48 Venezuela IBC 16834.32 0.08 15.40 Currencies daily % YTD % change change Latest Brazil real 3.9616 0.90 -0.37 Mexico peso 18.1200 0.93 -4.91 Chile peso 691.5 0.04 2.63 Colombia peso 3320.5 0.52 -4.55 Peru sol 3.524 0.00 -3.12 Argentina peso (interbank) 15.5300 -0.32 -16.40 Argentina peso (parallel) 15.6 0.32 -8.53 (Reporting by Bruno Federowski; Editing by W Simon) By Foo Yun Chee BRUSSELS - Europe's antitrust chief on Monday rebuffed U.S. criticism of her pursuit of Apple , Amazon and other U.S. companies over their tax deals, saying she was just doing her job to ensure a level playing field in the 28-country bloc. Competition Commissioner Margrethe Vestager's comments came after U.S. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew earlier this month urged her to reconsider her investigations because they risked creating disturbing precedents. "The Commission is using a combination of its tools, namely legislative action and enforcement of EU state aid rules, with the aim of establishing fair tax competition within the European Union," Vestager wrote in a letter to Lew seen by Reuters. She said her investigations were not intended to challenge the U.S. tax system or bilateral tax agreements. "The Commission has the duty to ensure that these rules are applied in a non-discriminatory manner by excluding preferential treatment in any form that constitutes incompatible state aid," Vestager said. "This does not put into question the U.S. taxation system or go against double taxation treaties concluded by EU member states." She said ordering governments to recover back taxes was just part of the bloc's rules and was not intended to punish companies. The European Commission is investigating Apple's tax deal with Ireland and those between Amazon and McDonald's in Luxembourg to see if they give an unfair advantage in breach of state aid laws. Both Starbucks and Fiat Chrysler Automobiles face back taxes of up to 30 million euros. Apple Chief Executive Tim Cook last month personally lobbied Vestager. Vestager said just a handful of U.S. companies had to repay illegal state aid out of about 170 cases since 1999. (Editing by David Holmes) ATLANTA, GA--(Marketwired - February 29, 2016) - Georgia-based businesses made a mark on the 2016 100 Top Global Franchises Ranking, produced by Franchise Direct. This year, five of the franchises ranked within the Top 100 call Georgia home. The annual list ranks global franchises based on a variety of factors that indicate sound commercial and civic responsibility practices as well as the cultural sensitivities necessary to grow their businesses. Hotel franchise InterContinental Hotels Group, originally from England but now based in Atlanta, made a strong showing this year by moving back into the Top 10. Cleaning franchise JAN-PROCleaning Systems maintained its steady position in the top 30 on the list. In addition to hotel and cleaning, Georgia fast food franchises are holding strong and posting solid rankings. All five of the Top 100's Georgia franchises are based in the Greater Atlanta area. The complete list of Georgia franchises includes InterContinental Hotels Group (#8), JAN-PRO Cleaning Systems (#22), Cinnabon (#54), Popeyes (#68), and Arby's (#79). Franchise Direct is known for using objective and measurable criteria to evaluate thousands of global franchises. The top 100 franchises are ranked based on gathered data, including the company's history, market expansion, stability and growth, revenue, and system size based on number of units. Franchise Direct also takes into account the corporation's use of best practices in the areas of franchisee support and training, environmental policies, and social responsibility, as gathered from Franchise Disclosure Documents, company submitted data, government filings, and published industry sources. While this list isn't meant to be definitive or endorse any particular company, it provides extremely useful information about the state of the franchising industry and showcases global franchises that have solid business plans, a sense of environmental and social responsibility, as well as stable growth. Story continues To view this year's full ranking and read the accompanying report, please visit the Top 100 Global Franchises page. About Franchise Direct: Franchise Direct is the world's leading franchise portal, operating 13 platforms across 5 continents. Franchise Direct provides the only credible, research-based ranking of global franchises to reach their goal of providing reliable information for entrepreneurs and investors. BRUSSELS (Reuters) - The proposed merger of Europe's two biggest financial market operators, London Stock Exchange Group (LSE.L) and Deutsche Boerse (DB1Gn.DE), poses competition issues and should also be assessed with regard to the possibility of Britain leaving the European Union, France's economy minister said on Monday. A merged group worth almost $30 billion would be similar in scale to the U.S. exchange ICE (ICE.N), which has taken huge slices of Europe's derivatives markets, and would leave smaller European competitors such as Euronext Paris (ENX.PA) far behind. "We will assess the consequences in strategic terms for Paris's financial centre," France's Economy Minister Emmanuel Macron told reporters in Brussels. On his way to a meeting with EU competition commissioner Margrethe Vestager, he said that the proposed deal raised competition issues. Macron, a former investment banker, also raised doubts about the impact on the merged group if Britain elected to leave the European Union in the national referendum which is expected to take place in June. "I think we should assess the possible consequences of a Brexit on such a merger," he said, conceding that it is a matter of debate mostly for shareholders. On Friday, LSE and Deutsche Boerse said that the merged group would prosper regardless of Britain leaving the EU (Reporting by Francesco Guarascio; Editing by Greg Mahlich) Chefs and restaurateurs celebrate at Asias 50 Best Restaurants 2016 awards ceremony, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Click here for high-resolution version BANGKOK, THAILAND--(Marketwired - Feb 29, 2016) - Gaggan in Bangkok has claimed the top spot in the list of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants for a second consecutive year. Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, revealed the 2016 list at an awards ceremony at the W Hotel in Bangkok, Thailand. Now in its fourth year, the 2016 list welcomes 10 new entries. With 13 nations represented, the 2016 list includes restaurants from more countries than ever before, showcasing a rich variety of dining experiences across Asia. Gaggan retains the dual titles of The Best Restaurant in Asia, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna and The Best Restaurant in Thailand, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna. Individual Country Awards: Narisawa (No.2) is named The Best Restaurant in Japan, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna for a fourth successive year. Rising two places, Chef Andre Chiang's Restaurant Andre (No.3) holds the title of The Best Restaurant in Singapore, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, for the fourth consecutive time. Amber (No.4) in Hong Kong reclaims the title of The Best Restaurant in China sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna, from last year's winner Ultraviolet (No.7). Entering the list at No.15, Mingles in Seoul claims the Highest New Entry Award, sponsored by John Paul, and also earns the title of The Best Restaurant in Korea. Gallery Vask (No.39) in Manila is awarded The Best Restaurant in the Philippines while Locavore (No.49) in Bali is named the The Best Restaurant in Indonesia. Indian Accent rises 13 places to No.9 to be awarded The Best Restaurant in India for a second year. Le Mout (No.30), retains The Best Restaurant in Taiwan title while Ministry of Crab in Colombo (No.31) secures honours as The Best Restaurant in Sri Lanka. Cuisine Wat Damnak (No.43) returns as The Best Restaurant in Cambodia. Other award winners announced include: Highest New Entry Award, sponsored by John Paul: Mingles Chef Mingoo Kang reinvents Korean cuisine by fusing local ingredients with Western influences. Story continues One To Watch, sponsored by Peroni Nastro Azzurro: Florilege Florilege in Tokyo is dedicated to modern French cuisine presented with impeccable style. Asia's Best Pastry Chef, sponsored by Cacao Barry: Cheryl Koh Using inspiration from her travels, Singapore-born Cheryl Koh launched Tarte in April 2015. Chefs' Choice Award: Paul Pairet Paul Pairet earned the respect of his peers with his two influential Shanghai restaurants, Mr & Mrs Bund and the avant-garde Ultraviolet. Highest Climber Award: Quintessence A Tokyo favourite, Quintessence (No.20) rises 29 places from last year. Chef Margarita Fores from the Philippines is named Asia's Best Female Chef 2016 while David Thompson is this year's recipient of The Diners Club Lifetime Achievement Award. William Drew, Group Editor of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, said: "Asia's 50 Best Restaurants strives to reward creativity as well as culinary excellence and all 50 restaurants on the list, as well as the individual award-winners, exemplify these qualities." Further information, photography and video footage is available on www.theworlds50best.com/asia Image Chefs and restaurateurs celebrate at Asia's 50 Best Restaurants 2016 awards ceremony, sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna http://release.media-outreach.com/i/Download/4414 http://release.media-outreach.com/i/Download/4422 Company logo http://release.media-outreach.com/i/Download/4340 How Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list is compiled Asia's 50 Best Restaurants is created by The Diners Club Asia's 50 Best Restaurants Academy, an influential group of over 300 leaders in the restaurant industry across Asia. For the 2016 edition, Asia's 50 Best Restaurants is working with professional services consultancy Deloitte as its official independent adjudication partner. Organised by William Reed Media Group Asia's 50 Best Restaurants list is published by William Reed Media Group, which also publishes The World's 50 Best Restaurants, launched in 2002, and Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants, launched in September 2013. Host Country: Thailand Thai food is among the key magnets that draw visitors across the globe to Thailand. Thailand has also become a gourmet's playground with the best of the world's cuisines represented. The nation's kitchens and restaurants produce dishes traditional and innovative, local and global, but always delicious and everyone is welcome to sample its unique flavours. About our Main Sponsor: S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna are the main sponsors of Asia's 50 Best Restaurants. S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna are the leading natural mineral waters in the fine dining world. Our Sponsors: Diners Club International - Official Financial Services Sponsor, sponsor of The Diners Club Lifetime Achievement Award and The Diners Club Asia's 50 Best Restaurants Academy. John Paul - Official Global Concierges Service and sponsor of the Highest New Entry Award Peroni Nastro Azzurro - Official Beer Supplier and sponsor of the One To Watch Award Cacao Barry - Official Chocolate Supplier and sponsor of the Asia's Best Pastry Chef Award Silestone by Cosentino - Official Quartz Worktop Supplier Robert Mondavi Winery - Official Wine Supplier W Hotel Bangkok - Official Hotel and Venue Partner Note to media: To receive further information and updates from Asia's 50 Best Restaurants, you MUST register with our media center online at http://www.theworlds50best.com/asia/en/media-centre-registration.html Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=2971221 Image Available: http://www2.marketwire.com/mw/frame_mw?attachid=2971237 LONDON, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Yanis Varoufakis, the self-described "erratic Marxist" who alienated his euro zone colleagues during his time as Greece's finance minister, has secured a new role advising Britain's opposition Labour Party. Jeremy Corbyn, who has sought to take the party of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown further to the left since he became leader in 2015, said Varoufakis would advise Labour in "some capacity" due to his experience from dealing with the European Union. "Varoufakis is interesting, because he has obviously been through all the negotiations [with ECB, European Commission and the International Monetary Fund]," he told his local London newspaper, the Islington Tribune. "I realise we're not in the euro zone but it's a question of understanding how we challenge the notion that you can cut your way to prosperity when in reality you have to grow your way to prosperity. "I think the way Greece has been treated is terrible and we should reach out to them." Varoufakis quit as finance minister last July after refusing to accept the terms of a third bailout for Greece which imposed further tough austerity measures. He has already met Labour's finance spokesman John McDonnell. Corbyn, who voted against membership in 1975, has said he will campaign to keep Britain in the EU in a June 23 referendum, arguing that membership is the best way to improve social and employment laws. (Reporting by Kate Holton; editing by Guy Faulconbridge) * Varoufakis says EU is disintegrating * Don't leave EU, former finance minister tells Britain * Corbyn says Greece has been treated terribly (Adds Labour spokesman) By Guy Faulconbridge and Kate Holton LONDON, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Yanis Varoufakis, the self-described "erratic Marxist" who took Greece to the brink of a euro zone exit by battling creditors over the conditions for a bailout, has got a new role: advising Britain's opposition Labour Party. The former Greek finance minister who shuns neckties and says the European Union is falling apart will advise Labour due to his negotiating experience during the euro zone debt crisis, said Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. "I think the way Greece has been treated is terrible and we should reach out to them," Corbyn, who has taken the party of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown further to the left since he became leader in 2015, told the Islington Tribune. "Varoufakis is interesting, because he has obviously been through all the negotiations [with the ECB, European Commission and the International Monetary Fund]," Corbyn was quoted as telling his local London newspaper. Varoufakis, 54, did not immediately respond to emailed requests for comment about the new role. A spokesman for the Labour Party said Varoufakis would take part in a lecture series to discuss his experiences and offer advice on Labour Party policy "in an attempt to raise the level of public debate on economics and policy making." In six months as Greece's finance minister, the British-educated economist infuriated euro zone colleagues by opposing the terms for a Greek bailout. As Greece tumbled towards what some investors feared would be a disorderly exit from the euro, Varoufakis engaged some colleagues in political discussion on the economic theory behind the bailout terms while publicly criticising the euro zone. He resigned in July 2015 shortly before Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras eventually finally agreed terms to avoid being bounced out of the common currency. Story continues "We both want to see an economic strategy around anti-austerity, and we're both very concerned about the activities and power of the European Central Bank," Corbyn, 66, said when asked about his ties to Tsipras. "EU FALLING APART" Greece's debt crisis and eventual bailout were cast by some eurosceptics in the British Labour movement as evidence that Germany was imposing spending cuts on citizens in euro zone countries to serve corporate interests. Though it was not immediately clear what Varoufakis would advise Labour on, the former finance minister has said he opposes a British exit from the EU. Corbyn, who voted against membership in 1975, has said he will campaign to keep Britain in the EU in a June 23 referendum, arguing that membership is the best way to improve social and employment laws. "Under the weight of its own hubris, the EU is falling apart," Varoufakis said in an article on his web site. "Brexit will make the EU's fragmentation faster and surer, begetting a post-modern 1930s from which the UK will not escape even if out of the EU." Corbyn's opponents in Prime Minister David Cameron's Conservative Party said Labour's move to seek advice from Varoufakis was indicated a flawed economic policy. (editing by Ralph Boulton) Mexico foreign minister Claudia Ruiz Massieu The Mexican government issued its most strident official response to Donald Trumps incendiary comments about immigration and the border, with Mexicos top diplomat calling his remarks "ignorant and racist" this weekend. "When an apple's red, it is red. When you say ignorant things, you're ignorant," Mexican Foreign Secretary Claudia Ruiz Massieu said Saturday, according to The Washington Post. "It sounds ignorant and racist, because it is," she added. "We are pretty sure that's not the way most Americans feel." Ruiz Massieu is the latest government official to respond to Trumps repeated assertions, first made last summer, that Mexico was sending "rapists" and other criminals across the US border, "bringing drugs" and "bringing crime." Trump has also insisted he would force Mexico to fund a border wall to halt flows of people and purported economic losses. "I would do something very severe unless they contributed or gave us the money to build the wall," he said last June. Mexicos top diplomat singled out the proposed wall for criticism. "It is not a proposition we would even consider," Ruiz Massieu said. "It is impossible to think of a 2,000-mile border being walled off and trade between our two countries stopped frankly, it is not an intelligent thing to do." 'Im not going to pay for that f------ wall' Though Ruiz Massieus comments are the strongest yet from the current Mexican government, former Mexican officials have condemned Trump more forcefully. "Im not going to pay for that f------ wall," Vicente Fox, Mexicos president from 2000-2006, said in a Fusion interview last week. Vicente Fox George Bush Mexico US Story continues Republican voters "are hearing the prophet telling them that he is going to take them to the promised land," said Fox who, The Post noted, has long identified with the US' Republican Party. "But he is going to lead everybody into the desert to die of hunger and thirst. He is a false prophet," Fox said. "We wont pay a single cent for that stupid wall," Felipe Calderon, Mexicos president from 2006 to 2012, told The Washington Post in an interview last week. "Its pathetic Trump is completely demagogical, Calderon added. Fox also compared Trump to Hitler, a sentiment Calderon echoed. I think his logic of exalting white supremacy isnt even acting against immigration, Calderon said last week. "It is acting and speaking against immigrants who have a different skin color than him, which is frankly racist and is a bit like the exploitation of raw nerves that Hitler did in his day, Calderon continued, according to El Daily Post. Joe Biden Enrique Pena Nieto US Mexico Other leaders have been more measured. During a meeting with Mexican President Enrique Pena Nieto last week, Vice President Joe Biden said rhetoric about Mexico the US presidential campaign had been "dangerous, damaging and incredibly ill-advised," without referring to anyone by name. Pena Nieto's administration has called Trumps remarks "prejudiced and absurd." Though the Mexican president did not refer to Trump specifically last week, he did say that there "are those who have the vision to close themselves off ... build walls. "But this only means isolating oneself and ending up alone," he said, according to AFP. 'We love it' Trump's success has caused some in Mexico to believe that US border policy will become more severe and that the best outcome of his candidacy now is a "more polite nativism" in the US. Others in Mexico have jeered the Republican business mogul and beaten pinatas of his likeness in the streets. Donald Trump Mexico pinata racist None of these condemnations are likely to sway Trumps supporters in the US, who have lifted him to victory in three of the four Republican primaries so far. Nor does Trump himself seem chastened. At a rally in Huntsville, Alabama, on Sunday, Trump delivered a response to Fox. "The wall just got 10 feet higher," he boomed, a reply that was met with cheers by the thousands in attendance. "We love it," Trump added. NOW WATCH: Heres why Donald Trump waited until now to run for president More From Business Insider A vehicle waits to be filled up with diesel at a petrol station in New Delhi, India, January 5, 2016. REUTERS/Anindito Mukherjee/Files By Nidhi Verma NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India on Monday proposed to give income tax exemption to foreign companies for storing and selling oil to local refiners, a move that could spur interest from global oil producers in leasing the country's strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) facilities. India, the world's third-biggest oil importer and one of the few major economies still seeing strong demand growth, is building up SPR facilities in southern India to hold 36.87 million barrels of oil. The tax exemption will be applicable from the financial year beginning April 1, provided the foreign company enters into an agreement with the federal government or the arrangement is approved by the government, the government proposed in its annual budget. Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently said the United Arab Emirates is keen to use half of the 1.5 million tonnes, or about 11 million barrels, facility at Mangalore. Previously global oil major Royal Dutch Shell and national oil companies of Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Iran had also showed interest in leasing the facilities, but shied away from signing any deal due to income tax and state levies such as sales tax. It was not immediately clear if the state levies will also be abolished to bring local sales on a par with transactions taking place outside India, where the seller has no Indian tax liability. The 9.75 million barrels Vizag facility in Andhra Pradesh has already been filled with Iraq's Basra oil, while two facilities at Mangalore and Padur in Karnataka are expected to be completed by March and May. (Reporting by Nidhi Verma; Editing by David Holmes) Beirut (AFP) - Intense Russian air strikes battered rebel bastions across Syria Friday, a monitor said, hours before a midnight deadline for a landmark ceasefire in the country's five-year civil war. With the ceasefire due to take effect at 2200 GMT, US President Barack Obama has warned Damascus and key ally Moscow that the "world will be watching". Both President Bashar al-Assad's regime and the main opposition body have agreed to the deal -- which allows fighting to continue against the Islamic State group and other jihadists. The agreement brokered by Russia and the United States marks the biggest diplomatic push yet to help end Syria's violence, but has been plagued by doubts after previous peace efforts failed. Members of the 17-nation group backing the process were meeting in Geneva to work out further details of the so-called "cessation of hostilities", which was then expected to be endorsed by the UN Security Council, diplomats said. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, a Britain-based monitor, said Russia and the regime had launched a wave of attacks on non-jihadist rebel areas ahead of the deadline. "It's more intense than usual. It's as if they want to subdue rebels in these regions or score points before the ceasefire," Observatory head Rami Abdel Rahman said. Russia launched air strikes in Syria last September saying it was targeting "terrorists", but critics have accused Moscow of hitting rebel forces in support of Assad, a longtime ally. The Observatory said there had been Russian strikes on rebel bastions including the Eastern Ghouta region outside Damascus, northern Homs province and the west of Aleppo province. There were at least 26 air strikes on Eastern Ghouta including 10 on its main city of Douma which was facing heavy regime shelling, it said. - Turkish concern - Russian President Vladimir Putin insisted Moscow would continue targeting "terrorist groups". Story continues "The decisive fight against them will, without doubt, be continued," Putin said in televised remarks. "We understand fully and take into account that this will be a complicated, and maybe even contradictory process of reconciliation, but there is no other way," Putin said. The intensified attacks prompted Turkey, a key supporter of opposition forces, to express worries over the viability of the ceasefire. "We are seriously concerned over the future of the ceasefire because of the continuing Russian air raids and ground attacks by forces of Assad," presidential spokesman Ibrahim Kalin told reporters in Ankara. The complexity of Syria's battlefields -- where moderate and Islamist rebel forces often fight alongside jihadist groups such as the Al-Qaeda affiliated Al-Nusra Front -- has raised serious doubts about the feasibility of a ceasefire. Al-Nusra's chief Mohammad al-Jolani on Friday urged Assad's opponents to reject the ceasefire and instead intensify attacks on the regime. "Beware of this trick from the West and America," he said in an audio message. "Negotiations are the ones conducted on the battlefield." Diplomats are reported to be working to define areas that will fall under the partial truce and to set up monitoring mechanisms. The UN's Syria envoy has said he hopes the agreement will lead to a resumption of peace talks which collapsed earlier this month in Geneva. International Committee of the Red Cross chief Peter Maurer told AFP in Damascus he hoped the ceasefire would open up previously inaccessible areas. "Humanitarian deliveries must not depend on political negotiations but must be allowed to continue and increase regardless of any truce or ceasefire," he said. Syria's top opposition grouping -- the Riyadh-based High Negotiations Committee (HNC) -- said Friday that 97 opposition factions had signed on "to respect a temporary truce", but reiterated that it was only agreeing to an initial two-week period. - 'Pretext of fighting terrorism' - It said the Syrian government and its allies must not continue attacking rebel forces "under the pretext of fighting terrorism". The HNC said any new bombing of the rebel-held town of Daraya in Damascus's southwestern suburbs of Damascus would violate the agreement after the army said it would exclude it from the ceasefire because forces there included Al-Nusra fighters. Russia and the United States are on opposing sides of the conflict, with Moscow backing Assad and Washington supporting the opposition, but the two powers have been making a concerted push for the ceasefire to be respected. Iran, another key Assad ally, has said it is confident the regime will abide by the agreement. In Washington on Thursday, Obama put the onus firmly on the regime and Russia. "The coming days will be critical, and the world will be watching," he said. US Secretary of State John Kerry has been a major advocate of the ceasefire, but others in Washington have been less optimistic about the chances of ending a conflict that has killed more than 270,000 people and forced millions from their homes. Kerry has warned that Washington is considering a "Plan B" for Syria if the ongoing efforts fail. He has not detailed the new strategy, but officials suggest it could involve increased support and more advanced weaponry for moderate rebels. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said that for the ceasefire to work, Washington should abstain from talk about "some sort of Plan B, about preparing a ground operation, about the creation of some sort of useless buffer zones". * Ireland's two main political parties resist coalition * Both looking to form own government over next 10 days * Economy can withstand degree of uncertainty - analysts * No. 2 party Fianna Fail demands parliamentary reform (Adds No. 2 party calling for cross-party reform of parliament before any talks) By Padraic Halpin DUBLIN, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Ireland's two biggest parties said on Monday they would each try to form a government over the next 10 days, but analysts said last week's inconclusive election meant they may be forced to set aside their differences and form a grand coalition. The second-largest party, Fianna Fail, raised the prospect of an even longer delay by calling for a cross-party deal on reforming parliament before any coalition talks, a process it said could take more than a month. The threat of weeks of political stalemate and a possible second election could take its toll on investors' appetite for Irish government bonds, although yields were little changed on Monday. Rating agency Fitch said protracted political uncertainty, an unstable government, or relying on more radical political elements could be negative for the country's credit rating. After his ruling coalition was ousted by voters angry at the country's uneven recovery, Prime Minister Enda Kenny's Fine Gael was set to fall about 30 seats short of the 80 that would give it a majority in parliament, with vote counting drawing to a close. "We need to look across a broad spectrum of the Dail (parliament) and see where we can find opportunities to discuss the formation of a government," Foreign Minister Charlie Flanagan of Fine Gael told national broadcaster RTE. Asked if that would eventually lead to a deal with rival Fianna Fail - the only combination analysts say will be able to break the impasse - Flanagan said "immovable positions" would not resolve the crisis. Senior figures in both parties have expressed opposition, particularly Fianna Fail, which outperformed forecasts and will likely cut a deficit between it and Fine Gael to just a handful of seats from more than 50 in 2011. Story continues Fianna Fail's Billy Kelleher said his party would canvass support among a disparate group of small parties and independent lawmakers to put its leader, Micheal Martin, forward as an alternative prime minister when parliament resumes on March 10. But Martin raised the possibility of a long delay to forming a government, proposing a cross-party agreement on reforming parliament, allowing two weeks for parties to formulate positions and two weeks of interparty talks. He said the election result indicated voters wanted "fundamental change" and called for major curbs on the power of the government, increasing oversight and ending their ability to push through legislation without full debate. Fine Gael did not immediately respond to Martin's statement, which did not mention the possibility of a grand coalition of the two main parties. TWO OPTIONS "Any kind of majority without each other is just not possible," said Theresa Reidy, a politics lecturer at University College Cork. "There are only two options on the table: some kind of minority administration or coalition. "The key question is how far Fianna Fail want to be integrated, and I certainly don't think we're going to get any kind of government very soon, it'll be six or eight weeks before there is a sense of what shape it will take." Ten-year bond yields remained near record lows at 0.89 percent, but traders have cautioned that investors would become more nervous the longer the instability lasts. Analysts are sanguine on the economy, however, saying it can handle some uncertainty after growing around 7 percent last year. Data on Monday suggested that momentum remained strong, with retail sales rising 10 percent year-on-year in January. (Editing by Janet Lawrence and Hugh Lawson) * Argentina and Elliott end legal battle in historic agreement * Petrobras bonds rally on US$10bn China loan * S&P affirms Venezuela CCC rating, keeps negative outlook * Gerdau postpones Q4 results amid police investigation By Mike Gambale NEW YORK, Feb 29 (IFR) - No deals priced in the LatAm primary market on Monday. Here is a snapshot of LatAm sovereign credit spreads: SOVEREIGN 2/26 2/25 2/24 1D 10D YTD 2015/16 HIGH BARBADOS 652 659 656 -7 1 48 659 (2/11/16) BRAZIL 480 486 478 -6 -52 -6 542 (2/11/16) CHILE 104 112 110 -8 -30 18 143 (2/11/16) COLOMBIA 344 346 348 -2 -48 55 412 (2/11/16) COSTA RICA 555 562 568 -7 -24 38 587 (2/11/16) DOMINICAN REP 478 488 494 -10 -49 63 542 (2/11/16) ECUADOR 1441 1490 1498 -49 -296 126 1765 (2/11/16) EL SALVADOR 716 728 763 -12 -109 76 840 (2/11/16) GUATEMALA 361 356 358 5 -11 59 385 (2/11/16) JAMAICA 482 489 489 -7 -22 33 519 (2/11/15) MEXICO 228 237 233 -9 -38 34 278 (2/11/16) PANAMA 227 237 237 -10 -33 21 272 (2/11/16) PERU 253 261 263 -8 -34 22 291 (2/10/16) TRINIDAD & TOBAGO 162 171 167 -9 9 64 173 (1/15/15) URUGUAY 297 307 309 -10 -35 29 344 (2/11/16) VENEZUELA 2932 3035 3110 -103 -757 140 3713 (2/12/16) Source: Bank of America Merrill Lynch Master Index SPREAD TRENDS: Ten-day trend shows Venezuela and Ecuador tighter by 757bp and 296bp LATAM PIPELINE: The province of Buenos Aires is expected to come with a deal after local papers reported Citibank, JP Morgan and HSBC have been mandated on an up to US$500m bond deal for which the borrower hopes to pay anywhere between 9%-9.5%. The province of Mendoza is looking to raise US$300m in both the local and international markets to refinance debt, according to local reports. And while Neuquen province is in less of a rush thanks to tax receipts from the federal government, it too is contemplating a bond issue. The United Mexican States has filed an up to US$10bn debt shelf with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Proceeds will be used for general purposes, including refinancing and the repurchase of debt. Story continues Argentine E&P company Medanito has wrapped up roadshows ahead of a possible transaction through Itau and UBS. Expected rating is CCC+ by Fitch. Concesion Pacifico Tres, a toll-road concession in Colombia, wrapped up a roadshow through Goldman Sachs. The company is looking to raise up to US$272m of bonds, according to Fitch, which has rated the senior secured bonds BBB-. Pacifico Tres is jointly owned by Construcciones El Condor SA, Mario Alberto Huertas Cotes, and Constructora MECO SA. Structure Banca de Inversion is acting as its financial advisor. Argentina utility Pampa Energia's shareholders have approved a US$500m debt program. Uruguay plans to raise up to US$1.5bn in bonds this year. Colombia hopes to issue US dollar or euro-denominated bonds soon, the country's finance minister has told market participants. (Reporting By Michael Gambale) With the Republican Party threatening to implode amid billionaire Donald Trumps seemingly inexorable, foul-mouthed ascent to the presidential nomination, Senate Republicans struggling to retain their majority appear to be taking an every-man-for himself approach. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (KY) is alarmed that a Trump candidacy might well lead to the demise of the GOPs hold on Congress and the election of Democrat Hillary Rodham Clinton as president. He has privately advised vulnerable Senate Republican incumbents to distance themselves from the bombastic and polarizing Trump during the general election campaign, according to The New York Times. Related: In the Trump v. GOP Divorce Case, Who Gets to Keep the House? While still holding out dim hope that Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL) can somehow deny Trump an outright majority of the delegates heading into this summers Republican National Convention, McConnell is preparing his colleagues for the strong possibility that Trump will be their partys nominee. If thats the case, then McConnell is advising endangered GOP Senate candidates to run negative ads against Trump to create space between him and Republican senators seeking reelection. McConnell has been a frequent target of Trump and Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas for being the personification of the Republican political establishment they want to dismantle. McConnell, House Speaker Paul Ryan of Wisconsin, and other GOP congressional leaders have been appalled by Trumps take-no-prisoners campaign style, his proposals for deporting 11 million illegal immigrants, barring Muslims from entering the country, and his more liberal stands, including preserving funding for Planned Parenthood and providing health care for all. Now, Trump has dragged Rubio -- one of the two remaining viable GOP candidates -- down in the mud with him. Over the weekend, the two exchanged crude schoolyard taunts suggesting that neither was up to the role of commander in chief. And Cruz the other viable challenger has made it difficult for him to go after Trump more vigorously after having played up to him throughout much of the early months of the campaign. So far, only one senator has endorsed the billionaire, and that is archconservative Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama, a champion of Trumps most draconian immigration policies. Story continues Few other Republican senators are expected to follow suit. McConnell reportedly has begun spinning out a fail-safe strategy for Senate Republicans to preserve their majority as a barrier to an increasingly likely Clinton administration. If Clinton is elected president, she will be able to nominate a successor to the late Supreme Court justice Antonin Scalia, a conservative powerhouse on the court. Related: With a Stream of Misspelled Tweets, Trump Chocks Off Debate Critics The Republicans currently hold a 54 to 46 seat advantage over the Democrats and Democratic leaning independents a fragile majority that could be washed away if the GOP suffers a major upset in November. McConnell has already suggested one way to handle the Trump mattermake it clear youre not supportive and youre running your own race, said University of Virginia political scientist Larry J. Sabato in an email on Monday. Whether that will be enough remains to be seen. Voters know how to ticket-split, though there has been a lot less of it in recent elections than there was in the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. Seven seats could determine the fate of the Senate in November, including the two being vacated by Rubio in Florida and retiring Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid in Nevada. The five other endangered Senate seats held by Republicans include the following: Mark Kirk (IL) -- The first-termer is deemed the most vulnerable Senate Republican seeking reelection. Hes struggling to retain his seat in a Democratic-leaning state against Democratic Rep. Tammy Duckworth, a highly decorated former U.S. Army helicopter pilot who lost both of her legs in the Iraq War. Illinois elected Bruce Rauner, a conservative GOP businessperson, as governor last year over the highly unpopular Democratic incumbent Pat Quinn. But President Obama should give Duckworth a huge boost in his home state. Related: If Voters Keep Digging, Theyll Find Trump Buried Some Really Bad Deals Ron Johnson (WI) Johnson has the misfortune of running for a second term in a state that Democrats have won in seven consecutive presidential elections. He is running against Democrat Russ Feingold, whom Johnson ousted in 2010. Public opinion polls have consistently shown Feingold with an eight to ten point lead over Johnson, who enjoys a loyal liberal and union base. Pat Toomey (PA) -- Toomey, a former House member and head of the anti-tax group Club for Growth, is another freshman who was swept into power in 2010 on a conservative GOP wave. Yet ever since, he has worked hard to moderate his image to appeal to voters in blue-leaning Pennsylvania even teaming up with Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin to promote gun control measures. Although Trump tops the field of GOP presidential candidates in Pennsylvania, according to a new Franklin & Marshall College poll, he turns off independent and opposition party members just the people Toomey is attempting to woo. Kelly Ayotte (NH) -- Ayotte quickly established herself as one of the Senates top defense hawks after winning election in 2010, and has allied herself with Sen. John McCain of Arizona, the 2008 GOP presidential nominee, and Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina who dropped out after a failed bid for the 2016 presidential nomination. Ayotte will have her hands full fending off a challenge from Democratic Gov. Maggie Hassan, a popular figure. And even while Trump finished first in the Feb. 10 New Hampshire Republican primary, two thirds of Republicans backed other candidates, including second-place finisher John Kasich, the governor of Ohio. Rob Portman (OH) -- The mild-mannered Portman, a former House member, has solid credentials as a former U.S. trade representative and director of the Office of Management and Budget. The low-key Republican is highly regarded on both sides of the aisle. However, Portman is being challenged by Ted Strickland, a popular and well-known former governor. Portman has acknowledged that Congress has become a dysfunctional institution and needs to be reformed. But he has sharply disagreed with the more extreme parts of Trumps campaign agenda, including banning Muslims from entering the United States and deporting 11 million illegal immigrant. Im not a rabble-rousing, red-meat Donald Trump guy, he said late last year. Top Reads from The Fiscal Times: ST. LOUIS - NOVEMBER 15: Stifel Financial's 'Forces' statue of a battling bull and bear sits outside the office building in St. Louis, Missouri on November 15, 2015. (Photo By Raymond Boyd/Getty Images) Tucked into Berkshire Hathaway's 2015 annual report was a pointed dismissal by Warren Buffett of the growing refrain that the U.S. economy would fail to provide a better lifestyle for future generations than it has in the past. (Reuters) Buffett answers viewers questions until 9 a.m. ET on CNBC's " Squawk Box ," everything from stocks and the economy to big investments like IBM and Coca-Cola to politics. Democrat Hillary Clinton, who won this weekend's contest in South Carolina by a landslide, tops Bernie Sanders nearly 2-to-1 in three big Super Tuesday contests of Georgia, Tennessee, and Texas, according to a trio of new polls. (NBC News) Republican Donald Trump was leading in the Super Tuesday states of Georgia and Tennessee, while Ted Cruz was ahead in his home state of Texas, according to those polls. (NBC News) Meg Whitman, the CEO of Hewlett-Packard Enterprise (HPE), who had an official role with Chris Christie's now-suspended presidential campaign, called the New Jersey governor's endorsement of Trump, " political opportunism ." (NBC News) As Apple jousts with the federal government over its request to crack the iPhone of one of the San Bernardino terrorists, the tech giant is expected to release a small-screen iPhone and new iPad on March 21. That's according to a BuzzFeed report. Google parent Alphabet (GOOGL) could gain at least $3.5 billion in new tax benefits if Intel (INTC) wins its international tax dispute with the IRS. The case involves share-based compensation. (WSJ) Ahead of Friday's release of the government's February employment report, investors get a couple of data points to consider this morning, including the February Chicago purchasing managers index at 9:45 a.m. ET and January pending home sales at 10 a.m. ET. An audit released this week by Internet security nonprofit the Online Trust Alliance found that 46 percent of tax software websites in an IRS Free File program failed cybersecurity protocols . Story continues Valeant (VRX), under pressure for its drug price increases, said CEO Michael Pearson is returning from medical leave effective immediately, and the drugmaker is postponing the release of fourth-quarter results. 103426413 JPMorgan Chase (JPM) fired the head of its government debt trading desk and another employee after they allegedly circumvented the bank's compliance procedures following a disagreement in valuing certain trades. That's according to the Financial Times . 103426509 Coffee giant Starbucks (SBUX) is finally ready to take its Americanized version of Italian coffees back to Italy, with its first outlet set to open in early 2017 . The first Starbucks outlet will open in Milan early next year, with stores to be rolled out in cities across the country later. Leonardo DiCaprio finally won an Oscar , best actor for "The Revenant." But the epic film lost out on best picture to underdog victor "Spotlight," the newspaper drama. Host Chris Rock dealt the diversity controversy head-on. (AP) Marvel's antihero blockbuster "Deadpool" continued to dominate North American movie theaters over the weekend, earning an estimated $31.5 million in its third week and besting newcomer "Gods of Egypt." (Variety) More From CNBC MEXICO CITY, Feb 29 (Reuters) - The way that take-off and landing slots at Mexico City's airport are assigned is anti-competitive and negatively affects the cost of services, Mexico's federal competition commission said on Monday. The investigative arm of the commission, known as Cofece, proposed that a reserve fund be created for slots that had not been assigned correctly, which could then be distributed to help smaller airlines and new entrants. Carlos Mena, head of the investigative arm, told a news conference that in 2014, two airlines - which he did not name - concentrated 65 percent of the landing and take-off slots. The investigative arm's recommendations will now be presented to the Cofece board, and time given for interested parties, airlines such as Aeromexico, Interjet and Volaris, as well as the airport authority, to respond. The Cofece board can then publish final measures. (Reporting by Christine Murray and Tomas Sarmiento Editing by W Simon) student microsoft Brescia House School Johannesburg, South Africa A new market report from the analysts at Futuresource indicates that despite the momentum of Google's low-cost Chromebook laptops, it's still Microsoft Windows that rules the school. In a blog entry, Microsoft trumpeted the results of that report, which indicates that in 2015, grade schools (kindergarten through 12th grade) purchased twice as many Windows devices as they did its closest competitor. That competitor is presumably, but not officially said to be, Google, whose Chromebooks have ruled the educational space and soundly beaten Apple and Microsoft for the past several years. So today's report is only one data point, from one analyst, as shared by Microsoft directly. So tread with caution. But it suggests that Microsoft is gaining a lot of ground on Google in schools. Google's Chromebooks, which can be found for as low as $149, are super-lightweight laptops that run Chrome OS, basically a modified version of the Google Chrome browser. Microsoft brags in its blog post that Windows' rising classroom popularity is due to the fact that it's available on a wide range of devices, from cheap sub-$200 laptops all the way up to the premium Surface Pro 4 tablet. That means a wider availability than before of cheap laptops that also run a full, versatile version of Windows, versus the Chromebooks' limitations (which are entirely web-browser based). Plus, Microsoft says that Windows is easier for a school's IT team to manage than the competition. In fact, Microsoft brags that Futuresource's data shows a 20% increase in Windows device shipments to grade schools over 2014. The devices tracked by the report includes laptops and tablets, but not desktop PCs. Notably, the number is inclusive of all versions of Windows: While many of those devices sold probably run the new Windows 10 operating system, it only came out in July of 2015. That means that many of those laptops and tablets were running Windows 8. It's an important point as Microsoft's march to a billion Windows 10 users continues. Story continues Hisense Chromebook Schools and education are an intensely desirable market for the biggest tech companies in the world. In a world increasingly ruled by the Internet, there's a lot of money to be made selling devices directly to schools. Plus, it hooks kids into their device ecosystem early on. To incentivize adoption, Microsoft makes its Office 365 office suite available for free to schools and colleges, and Google does the same with its competing Google Apps. Even Apple is trying to get in on the action with updates to its iOS software to make the iPad more desirable for schools. NOW WATCH: Here's what school lunch looks like in 13 cities around the world More From Business Insider By Rajesh Kumar Singh and Manoj Kumar NEW DELHI (Reuters) - The government unveiled a fire-fighting budget on Monday that seeks to win back support among rural voters for Prime Minister Narendra Modi's government and sustain growth against a grim global backdrop - all without borrowing more. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's third budget marked a strategic shift by addressing rural distress in a country of 1.3 billion, where two-fifths of families rely on farming and are reeling from two years of drought. At the same time it hiked public investment in India's woeful infrastructure by 22.5 percent, while taking further steps to revive corporate investment that Modi needs to create new jobs for India's burgeoning workforce. "We have a shared responsibility to spend prudently and wisely for the people, especially for the poor and downtrodden," the 63-year-old finance minister told lawmakers in his 100-minute address. India holds several state elections this year, including in the farming state of West Bengal, with the country's most populous state, Uttar Pradesh, going to the polls in 2017. A strong showing will be vital to Modi's chances of a second term. Despite commanding a large majority in parliament's lower house, Modi's government has failed to pass several key measures since sweeping to power almost two years ago, raising doubts over the impact of its reform agenda. Jaitley called Asia's third-largest economy a bright spot in a gloomy global landscape, and reiterated a forecast that it would grow by 7.6 percent in the fiscal year that is drawing to a close. But, despite hefty commitments on rural welfare and health, Jaitley managed to stick to his fiscal deficit target of 3.5 percent of gross domestic product for the 2016/17 fiscal year that starts on April 1 - a pledge that may open the way for an early interest rate cut by the Reserve Bank of India. "At first sight, it's a good budget, a fire-fighting budget," said Amitabh Dubey, director of India research at Trusted Sources. Story continues "Rural demand is weak, private investment is dead in the water and, of course, we have a banking crisis," he added. "They've announced some ease-of-doing-business-measures that are positive. But, in other ways, it's a classic tax-and-spend budget." INDIA SHINING? Modi's change of course seeks to prevent a repeat of the fate of the last government led by his nationalist Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), whose relentless optimism - summed up by its "India Shining" slogan - grated with voters who dispatched it after one term in 2004. Jaitley reeled off a list of $16 billion in measures targeted at the countryside, including spending on a job creation scheme, farmers' welfare and building of rural roads. He also targeted a total of $130 billion in credit to farmers. "These steps will help our millions of farmers recover from the rough patch they have been going through," said Yoginder K. Alagh, a farm expert and former planning official. The government will also allocate $32 billion for infrastructure development in 2016/17, an increase of 22.5 percent from last year, building 10,000 km of new national highways and upgrading another 50,000 km. Those spending pledges leave scant cash over to recapitalise a state banking sector weighed down with bad loans to a corporate sector that itself is struggling under a heavy debt burden. Jaitley announced a capital injection of just $3.6 billion into public sector banks in the coming fiscal year - a fraction of total needs that his economic adviser, Arvind Subramanian, estimated at $26 billion in his pre-budget report. "The banking sector has a major role to play in spurring private investment, which is lacking and without which an all-round economic revival is not a possibility," said Milind Kothari, head of direct tax at BDO India in Mumbai. Jaitley promised a one-time disputes resolution process for back-tax claims that have hit foreign investors like Vodafone (VOD.L). But he also hiked taxes on new cars and tobacco products, and imposed a new tax on large dividend payments - all measures that will hit India's growing middle class. "Despite our disappointment on the tax on cars, I see no reason for the mayhem in the market," Anand Mahindra, chairman of Mahindra Group (MMFS.NS) said on Twitter. "The call for a shift to investment in general infrastructure such as highways has also been answered. And fiscal targets have been maintained." Financial investors gave Jaitley's budget a cautious thumbs up, with the rupee, bonds and stocks buoyant. Ratings agencies also gave their cautious backing to a spending package that produced no nasty surprises on the borrowing side. "What we've heard is largely in line with the current rating and the current outlook," said Atsi Sheth, Associate Managing Director, Sovereign Risk Group, Moody's Investors Service, which rates India at "Baa3", its lowest investment grade rating. ($1 = 68.5050 Indian rupees) (Reporting by New Delhi and Mumbai teams; Writing by Douglas Busvine; Editing by Paritosh Bansal and Simon Cameron-Moore) (Repeats Sunday story with no changes) * Central bank extended trading hours to 11:30 pm in Jan * Move followed yuan's acceptance for IMF's currency basket * Traders say very little trade comes in the evening hours * The yuan exchange rate changes little after 4:30 pm * Traders say state banks step in to curb volatility By Lu Jianxin and Pete Sweeney SHANGHAI, Feb 28 (Reuters) - In the fast-paced, high-risk world of foreign exchange trading, where trillions of dollars change hands every day, there's a quiet corner of the yuan market where traders can get some shut-eye, despite China's efforts to elevate its currency to the top table. The People's Bank of China (PBOC) extended the yuan's trading hours to 11:30 pm in January to overlap with European hours after the International Monetary Fund (IMF) decided it would admit the yuan into its Special Drawing Rights (SDR) basket by next October, a key step on the way to becoming an international reserve currency. But there is a yawning disconnect between the currency's new status and the level of interest in the after-hours market. "It can be really boring and lonely sometimes," said one night trader at a bank. He said he kept an eye out for rare incoming orders but spent most of his time watching online videos to alleviate the boredom of being stuck on his own until bedtime. Other night traders who spoke to Reuters said they processed around five orders in the last three hours, which has led some banks not to bother staffing the shift. "One key problem is there is no corporate demand," said a trader at a major European bank in Shanghai. "Few companies feel the urgency to follow global market movements closely." Because of China's capital controls and central bank efforts to curb exchange rate volatility, there is little speculation in the domestic market, traders say. Some state-owned banks are trading in the evening sessions on behalf of the central bank to keep the yuan steady, according to a trader at a Chinese commercial bank in Shanghai. Story continues "Every time when the evening rate appeared to go out of hand, you could sense the signs that state-owned banks are intervening in the market on behalf of the PBOC," he said. Yuan/dollar quotes in the late session rarely stray more than 50 pips from the rate at 4:30 pm, regardless of what happens to the yuan traded in offshore markets, traders said. And trading between the yuan and other currencies such as the yen and euro, is nearly non-existent in the night session, they added. WIDER ACCESS, SLIM PICKINGS The relatively steady exchange rate means many corporates don't bother to hedge their foreign exchange positions during the late session because the rate tends to stay put. "The market still behaves like it closes at 4:30 p.m.," said a dealer at another European bank, adding that his bank recently decided its night trader would end his shift at 9:30 p.m. There is also a dearth of overseas investors in the Chinese market, despite Beijing's efforts to widen access for foreigners, partly to satisfy the IMF that the yuan was eligible for its SDR basket. In November, China allowed the first batch of foreign central banks, sovereign wealth funds and international financial institutions to register to enter the market. "Right now it's only a trial to meet the IMF standards," said a trader at another Chinese commercial bank in Shanghai. "We have to wait for more policies from the government to encourage market participation, such as introducing brokers and individuals to encourage competition." A trader from a third European bank said: "I believe when the new SDR basket takes effect late this year, the evening trading may pick up, along with more reforms on the way." (Reporting by Lu Jianxin, Pete Sweeney and the Shanghai Newsroom; Editing by Will Waterman) NEW YORK, Feb 29 (Reuters) - A federal jury on Monday found two former New York stockbrokers liable for trading on confidential tips about an IBM Corp acquisition, despite a major appeals court ruling that made insider trading cases harder to pursue. In a victory for the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, a federal jury in Manhattan found former Euro Pacific Capital Inc brokers Daryl Payton and Benjamin Durant liable for engaging in insider trading. The trial came after a December 2014 appellate ruling limiting the scope of insider trading laws forced prosecutors to drop criminal charges against Payton, Durant and three others over trades placed before IBM announced its $1.2 billion acquisition of SPSS Inc in 2009. But the SEC continued to press civil charges over trades made ahead of the $1.2 billion deal's announcement. (Reporting by Nate Raymond in New York; Editing by Chris Reese) BEIJING, CHINA--(Marketwired - February 29, 2016) - Nevada tourism officials attended the launch of the China Tourism Year in Beijing today, marking a cooperative effort to increase travel between China and the United States. Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs Director Claudia Vecchio and Nevada Division of Tourism Deputy Director Larry Friedman attended the ceremony in Beijing, hosted by Brand USA, as part of an annual sales mission to China. Nevada was the first U.S. destination to be licensed by the Chinese government to advertise tourism in China and has been actively marketing the state in the 12 years since. In 2015, President Obama and Chinese President Xi signed an agreement naming 2016 the China Tourism Year and enhancing efforts to increase tourism between the two countries. The U.S. Department of Commerce's National Travel and Tourism Office is leading the effort in the United States. "Nevada has been dedicated to the Chinese market for over a decade, and we are happy to be part of the commemoration of the China Tourism Year," Vecchio said. "Our annual sales missions, participation in trade shows, hosting of media and travel professionals, and our continued marketing in China have certainly contributed to the impressive increase in visitors to our state." Nevada has experienced double-digit increases in visitors from China: 14.2 percent in 2014, the most recent full year of data reported, according to the National Travel and Tourism Office. In recent years, Chinese travel regulations have lessened, allowing more leisure travelers to the United States, and the travel visa validity has extended from one to 10 years. The National Travel and Tourism Office also reports that Chinese visitors spend on average $5,350 per person, per trip, and 15 percent of Chinese visitors to the United States come to Nevada. "Tourism is Nevada's No. 1 industry, employing 474,000 Nevadans and generating over $3 billion in tax revenue for the state," Vecchio said. "It's no surprise that international tourism is a vital part of what we do, and China is a lucrative market for Nevada." For more information on the Nevada Division of Tourism, visit www.TravelNevada.biz. The Nevada Division of Tourism is part of the Nevada Department of Tourism and Cultural Affairs. More commonly knowns as TravelNevada, it is responsible for promoting and marketing Nevada as a travel destination to domestic and international travelers. Operating within a performance-based budget structure, TravelNevada is funded solely by a percentage of lodging tax paid by overnight guests throughout the state. For more, visit www.TravelNevada.biz. TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - February 29, 2016) - NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES Sherritt International Corporation ("Sherritt") (TSX:S.TO) announced today a resolution to the Advance Cargo Declaration (ACD) dispute that arose from a recently introduced cargo inspection and fee regulation in Madagascar. The ACD was implemented Febuary 9, 2016 and applied to all importers and exporters. Sherritt is the operator and 40% owner of the Ambatovy Joint Venture, regulated under Madagascar's Large Mining Investment Act (LGIM), which provides regulatory and fiscal stability for the project and prevents the imposition of new laws and regulations over the life of the mine. Accordingly, Ambatovy did not register or comply with the new ACD regulation. The Malagasy authorities have now confirmed Ambatovy's position and provided instruction allowing port operations to resume. Import operations have now recommenced and export operations are expected to resume within the next 24 hours. Sherritt does not anticipate material impacts to production, sales or liquidity resulting from this event. About Sherritt Sherritt is a world leader in the mining and refining of nickel from lateritic ores with projects and operations in Canada, Cuba, and Madagascar. The Corporation is the largest independent energy producer in Cuba, with extensive oil and power operations across the island. Sherritt licenses its proprietary technologies and provides metallurgical services to mining and refining operations worldwide. The Corporation's common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "S". Source: Sherritt Investor Relations US President Barack Obama said an internationally backed ceasefire would be difficult to achieve, laying some of the blame at Putin's door (AFP Photo/Mandel Ngan) Rancho Mirage (United States) (AFP) - President Barack Obama on Tuesday called for "tangible steps" to reduce tensions in the South China Sea, after a two day summit with Southeast Asian leaders concerned at Beijing's military build-up. "We discussed the need for tangible steps in the South China Sea to lower tensions," Obama said after the meeting, calling for "a halt to further reclamation, new construction and militarization of disputed areas." China's actions in the vital waterway featured heavily in talks at Sunnylands, a sprawling California desert retreat. In a joint statement, Obama and the 10 ASEAN leaders demanded the "peaceful resolution" of a myriad of competing territorial claims over islands, atolls and reefs. Obama has tried to muster an informal coalition of Pacific allies to demand that Beijing respect the rule of law, hoping that China will want to avoid being painted as a regional bully. The next showdown could come when the UN's Permanent Court of Arbitration decides in April or May whether China's claim to a vast expanse of sea inside a "nine-dash line" has legal merit. Leaders discussed a collective US-ASEAN endorsement of the court's verdict -- whatever the outcome -- which would heap pressure on China, which refuses to recognize the court. "Freedom of navigation must be upheld, and lawful commerce should not be impeded," Obama said. "The United States will continue to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows, and we will support the right of all countries to do the same." The White House had lauded the summit, and the prestigious venue, as an opportunity to champion Obama's "pivot to Asia" and ASEAN's growing importance, before the president leaves the White House in January 2017. "As president, I've insisted that even as the United States confronts urgent threats around the world, our foreign policy also has to seize on new opportunities. And few regions present more opportunity in the 21st century than the Asia-Pacific," Obama said. Story continues "That's why, early in my presidency, I decided that the United States, as a Pacific nation, would rebalance our foreign policy and play a larger and long-term role in the Asia-Pacific." Obama announced a package of measures designed to boost Southeast Asian economies, betting that the fast-growing region can be an ever more important trade partner. The plan will establish three economic offices -- in Jakarta, Bangkok and Singapore -- to boost the US government's "economic engagement with ASEAN institutions," officials said. - Strong pushback - The summit came as ASEAN and US officials report increasingly strong pushback from Beijing, which is using diplomatic and economic muscle to weaken criticism. Officials say Cambodia and Laos -- two ASEAN countries that have no claims in the South China Sea -- are under particular pressure to break ranks. Those countries are also the destination for large flows of Chinese investment. "The message is 'fall in line, or else,'" said one Southeast Asian diplomat. "China has leverage." But some see signs that pressure is beginning to backfire -- forcing ASEAN countries to turn further toward the United States. That is something Obama hoped to capitalize on at Sunnylands. In Myanmar, Beijing's long-held influence waned as military leaders feared becoming overly dependent on China, opening the way for better relations with Washington. Myanmar's outgoing leader Thein Sein was not at the summit. He decided to remain at home as talks inside the regime intensify over whether to change the constitution to allow Aung San Suu Kyi to become president. Vietnamese Prime Minister Nguyen Tan Dung did attend, after initially canceling amid a power shakeup within Vietnam's ruling Communist Party. In another reminder of the difficulties in bolstering the rule of law in Southeast Asia, Obama called for a return to civilian rule in Thailand, where the military seized power in 2014. At home, Obama's latest effort to champion his pivot was overshadowed by the death of Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia. But the White House will hoped to send a message to the region that Washington will remain engaged. "I'm confident that whoever the next president may be will build on the foundation that we've laid, because there's strong, sustained bipartisan support for American engagement in the Asia-Pacific region," Obama said. Presidential trips to Vietnam and Laos are expected later this year to reinforce the point. By Koustav Samanta and Vijaykumar Vedala (Reuters) - Oil prices will average just over $40 a barrel this year due to subdued demand and the likelihood a tentative agreement by leading producers to freeze output will do little to drain a supply glut, a Reuters poll showed on Monday. The price, which has fallen by 45 percent in the last 12 months, is unlikely to recover much beyond its current levels around $34 a barrel until the second half of the year, when output from producers outside OPEC is expected to decline. The survey of 30 economists and analysts forecast benchmark Brent crude will average $40.10 a barrel, down $2.40 from last month's poll. Brent crude, which averaged about $54 a barrel in 2015, has averaged $32.57 so far this year. This is the ninth successive monthly Reuters poll in which analysts have lowered their price forecasts. Russia and OPEC members Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Venezuela have agreed to work on a global deal to freeze oil output at January levels if other producers follow suit in a bid to tackle the global crude glut and support prices. But Iran is planning to ramp up its output following the end of Western sanctions and has said the proposal is "laughable". Iraq has also said it will boost production. "While it's the first coordinated supply move of any kind by OPEC members and Russia in the past 15 years, it is clear that any deal without Iranian and Iraqi participation will do little to tighten the market, at least in 2016," Raymond James analyst Luana Siegfried said. Analysts are also skeptical that freezing production near record levels will support the market. Oil prices have fallen 70 percent since mid-2014 due to surplus crude piling up and a decision by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries in late 2014 to refrain from cutting output to shore up prices, as it had done for decades. The analysts polled believed supply and demand would not be balanced until late 2016, though the gap between the two is expected to narrow compared with last year. "Although supply will not meet demand before 2017, anticipation of less oversupply should be supportive for oil prices," ABN AMRO senior energy economist Hans Van Cleef said. "I believe that this agreement is a clear signal that some of the major oil producers indicate that oil prices should not go lower from current levels." Global demand growth would likely remain subdued in the medium term due to a slowing Chinese economy and a decline in consumption in OECD countries on improving energy efficiencies and a shift towards cleaner fuels, the analysts said. Analysts see U.S. crude futures averaging $38.90 a barrel in 2016, down $2.10 from the January poll forecast. West Texas Intermediate (WTI) has averaged $31.03 a barrel so far in 2016. Morgan Stanley had the lowest 2016 forecast for Brent at $30 a barrel, while Raymond James had the highest at $53. (Reporting by Koustav Samanta and Vijaykumar Vedala in Bengaluru; Editing by Susan Thomas) By Barani Krishnan NEW YORK (Reuters) - Oil rallied as much as 3 percent on Wednesday with Brent prices helped by news of stalled loadings for the United Kingdom's North Sea oil while U.S. crude futures rose after strong demand for gasoline offset worries about record high crude inventories. Some traders bet Brent and U.S. crude futures would fall in coming days as OPEC remained opposed to cutting output, and as U.S. refiners entered seasonal maintenance that causes a bigger buildup in crude stockpiles. Brent, the global benchmark for crude, settled up $1.14, or 3.4 percent, at $34.41 a barrel after market sources cited loading problems for North Sea crude. A supertanker chartered by oil trader Vitol to carry North Sea Forties to South Korea was unable to load at Hound Point, a marine terminal in Scotland, due to technical issues, traders and industry sources told Reuters. "If there are loading issues in the North Sea, that would partly explain Brent's outperformance today," said Matt Smith, who tracks crude loadings for Clipper Data in New York. U.S. crude futures settled up 28 cents, or nearly 1 percent, at $32.15 after gasoline demand rose more than 5 percent over the past four weeks compared with a year ago, government data showed. The strong gasoline numbers took attention away from U.S. crude stockpiles, which rose 3.5 million barrels last week to reach an all-time peak above 507 million barrels. Still, U.S. crude's discount to Brent widened to its most in 10 weeks, after trading at a premium to the UK benchmark just two months ago. [L2N1632J9] Some traders think crude prices will head lower in coming days and weeks after Saudia Arabian Oil Minister Ali al-Naimi ruled out output cuts in favour of a deal to freeze output at January's highs. "We feel it's just a matter of time before we break below $30 to the downside," said Tariq Zahir, fund manager at New York's Tyche Capital Advisors, who is wagering that nearby U.S. crude futures will weaken versus forward contracts. Story continues "The talk of a bottom having formed in crude prices will be proven wrong again for the umpteenth time." Oil has slid from more than $100 a barrel since mid-2014, pressured by excess supply and a decision by the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries to abandon its traditional role of cutting production to boost prices. The Saudi-led OPEC has stepped up diplomatic activity with other oil producers after crude prices hit 12-year lows last month. Venezuela's oil minister said a mid-March meeting was being planned to get more OPEC and non-OPEC producers to join the production freeze plan. Iran, which opposes any move to limit its oil output until its crude exports reach pre-sanction levels, has called the freeze plan "laughable." (Additional reporting by Alex Lawler and Ahmad Ghaddar in London; Editing by Marguerita Choy and Lisa Shumaker) BAKU (Reuters) - Production at BP-led (BP.L) oil fields in Azerbaijan edged down to 31.3 million tonnes last year, from 31.5 million tonnes in 2014, BP-Azerbaijan said on Monday, contributing to a fall in the country's total output. Declines at the Azeri-Chirag-Guneshli (ACG) fields, which account for most of Azerbaijan's oil output, have raised concern in the former Soviet republic. BP said that the consortium spent about $760 million in operating expenditure and $1.9 billion in capital expenditure on ACG activities in 2015. The company added that 296 million barrels of oil and condensate had been exported from the Sangachal terminal in 2015, down slightly from the 298.5 million barrels exported the previous year. Azerbaijan's crude oil and condensate production in 2015 fell by 0.8 percent year on year to 41.7 million tonnes, the State Statistics Committee said in January, after planned maintenance suspended output at a number of fields. Output started to decline in May last year as BP suspended operations at one platform in the Caspian Sea, West Azeri, for 22 days of planned maintenance. BP suspended operations at another platform, Chirag, on Nov. 10. Production resumed after the planned maintenance on Dec. 11. Natural gas output from the Shah Deniz offshore fields in Azerbaijan was 9.9 billion cubic metres (bcm) last year, the same as the previous year. Shah Deniz is developed by a group of investors including BP and Azeri state energy company SOCAR. It is estimated to contain between 1.2 trillion and 1.5 trillion cubic metres of gas. Shah Deniz I has been pumping gas since 2006 and gas from its second stage is expected to reach Europe by 2019/20. Azerbaijan's natural gas production rose to 29.7 billion cubic metres (bcm) last year, from 29.4 bcm a year earlier. BP said that the Shah Deniz consortium had spent about $482 million in operating expenditure and $4.37 billion in capital expenditure last year. (Reporting by Nailia Bagirova and Margarita Antidze; Writing by Margarita Antidze and Maria Kiselyova; Editing by David Goodman) Petroleo Brasileiro S.A. or PetrobrasPBR will likely get a loan worth $10 billion from the China Development Bank, as per the term sheet inked by Brazils largest integrated energy firm and the bank. In exchange for the loan proceeds, Petrobras will supply crude to Chinese firms. Investors should know that this accord stems from the 2015 cooperation agreement between China and Brazil. The parties are still to finalize the details of the accord, which is being discussed. In fact, Petrobras did not make any comment on how it intends to use the loan. However, when the Chinese premier Li Keqiang visited Brazil last year, the Brazilian president Dilma Rousseff had recommended spending the proceeds on drilling operations in the pre-salt geological formation located off the coast of Brazil. Raising money from either the bond or the stock market has become increasingly difficult for Petrobras which is saddling the burden of the largest debt in the oil industry after it got involved in a multibillion dollar money laundering scam. On top of that, the overall business scenario has not been favorable since mid 2014 following persistent oil price weakness. Hence, in order to raise money either for paying its massive outstanding debt or to carry out its operations, selling off assets in large scale is the companys only option. In this dire situation, we can say that Petrobras is lucky enough to secure the massive Chinese loan. Now, one may ask the reason for Chinas keenness to offer such a huge debt to a company whose credibility has been questioned by investors worldwide. The answer lies in Chinas longing for natural resources. The worlds most-populous country is willing to lend money to distressed Latin American players from its state banks if that boosts its natural resource base. Headquartered in Rio de Janeiro, Petrobras is one of the largest energy players in Latin America. Currently, the company carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold), implying that it will perform in line with the broader U.S. equity market over the next one to three months. Story continues Meanwhile, some better-ranked players in the energy sector include Diamond Offshore Drilling, Inc. DO, McDermott International Inc. MDR and Murphy USA Inc. MUSA. Each of these stocks carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). 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 >> 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 PETROBRAS-ADR C (PBR): Free Stock Analysis Report MURPHY USA INC (MUSA): Free Stock Analysis Report MCDERMOTT INTL (MDR): Free Stock Analysis Report DIAMOND OFFSHOR (DO): Free Stock Analysis Report To read this article on Zacks.com click here. Zacks Investment Research Placester is a marketing platform that fuses technology and design to dramatically improve the home buying process for real estate professionals and consumers.Click here for high-resolution version BOSTON, MA--(Marketwired - February 29, 2016) - Placester, a marketing platform that fuses technology and design to dramatically improve the home buying process for real estate professionals and consumers and professionals, today announced the opening of its new headquarters at 100 High Street in Boston's Financial District. After hiring nearly 100 employees and raising $42MM in funding in 2015 alone, Placester will move into this new space on March 2 to make room for continued growth and job creation. "In the past year, Placester experienced rapid growth -- from funding to national contracts to nearly 100 new additions to our team. We're excited to take our business to the next level with this new custom-built office space," said Matt Barba, CEO and co-founder of Placester. Pulling inspiration from the industry at its core -- real estate, Placester's team joined with IA Interior Architects to design the 31,000 square foot space to emulate rooms and scenes in a home. The office hallways mimic a sidewalk, creating a path that winds through "dens," communal workspaces with homey furnishings, and "yards," recreational areas with green carpeting and games. Each conference room is named after a room in a home -- dining room, living room, alcove. Placester's COO and co-founder Frederick Townes has led the concept and planning process internally. Just as Placester provides smart technology for real estate agents, the focus for the office was to incorporate top-of-the-line technology for Placester employees. "The primary goal for the new space is to foster collaboration, allowing employees to reap the benefits of working together and using streamlined technology to minimize any friction points," said Townes. "The idea is that technology should aid physical collaboration, whether that's more effective screen-sharing in meetings or apps that document your brainstorming session, leading to faster results for our teams and ultimately, our customers." Story continues Townes worked with a group of companies to help make the new headquarters as communal and team-oriented as possible, including IdeaPaint, a dry-erase paint that transforms any surface into a whiteboard, and Robin, a conference room scheduling software. IdeaPaint will cover the vast majority of the walls in Placester's headquarters, particularly in the engineering areas, conference rooms and common areas. IdeaPaint's magnetic PULL product and dry-erase paint allow team members to brainstorm and diagram their thoughts without needing to go in search of whiteboard or paper and pencil, allowing for ad hoc collaboration to take place throughout the office. "IdeaPaint is all about getting people on their feet and sharing ideas, so as soon as we heard Placester's thinking for a collaboration-friendly new office, we knew it was an immediate fit," said Jeff Avallon, VP of Corporate Development of IdeaPaint. "We are also very excited that the Placester team will be using our mobile app BOUNCE to organize their ideas, and we look forward to working with them on new ways to enhance the way people work as a team." Robin Powered, the conference room scheduling software, will be used by Placester employees to streamline the process of booking meeting rooms. "Robin eliminates the all-too-familiar hassle of finding available rooms, so that teams can spend more time doing what they value. Placester's new office is designed to provide ample space that encourages teams to collaborate. We're glad to be playing a role in making smarter use of teams' daily schedules," said Sam Dunn, CEO of Robin. The new headquarters will officially open with a grand opening celebration on March 2, 2016 that will gather Placester employees and customers, as well as leaders of the Boston business and innovation community. About Placester Placester fuses technology and design to dramatically improve the home buying process for consumers, brokers, and agents. Founded In 2011 by Matthew Barba, a former real estate agent, and Frederick Townes, a seasoned technologist, the Placester marketing platform provides real estate professionals with MLS integration, high-resolution visuals, responsive design, and mobile optimization, as well as lead management tools and marketing automation software for email, Facebook, Google AdWords, and other channels. Currently serving over 100,000 real estate professionals, Placester is the sole website provider for the REALTOR Benefits Program, the official member benefits program of the National Association of REALTORS. To date, Placester has raised $50 million in funding, and is backed by New Enterprise Associates (NEA), Romulus Capital, and Techstars. For more information, please visit placester.com. Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084729/Images/Placester_SV-0296-e7218d0c47538f318c5541b032fd7e48.jpg Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084729/Images/Placester_SV-9358-5d8dac425f168738bacf0dd5be3b9528.jpg By Alexandria Sage (Reuters) - The world's most-watched stretch of red carpet seized the spotlight in Hollywood on Sunday as stars in luxurious gowns, glittering sequins and daring necklines strutted and twirled on their way into the Academy Awards. Although dresses in jewel tones and a profusion of skin were this year's signature trends, stars took red carpet risks, whether Charlize Theron in a vibrant red plunging Dior or Cate Blanchett in an explosion of flowers. Nominated for best actress in "Carol," Blanchett drew both raves and raised eyebrows with a sea-foam Armani Prive gown adorned with a profusion of hand-sewn flowers and feathers. "You have to love people who are taking risks," said Andrea Lavinthal, People magazine's style and beauty director. "Otherwise you'd see a lot more black dresses." A pale yellow Louis Vuitton gown adorned with silver paillettes was one of the first looks to shimmer down the 500 foot-long stretch of carpet. It was worn by Alicia Vikander, nominated for best supporting actress in "The Danish Girl." , "Just being here feels so surreal," said the Swedish actress sporting a high ponytail. "I have butterflies in my tummy." "Modern Family" star Sofia Vergara brought va-va-voom to the red carpet in a plunging Marchesa dress in midnight blue, while "Star Wars'" Daisy Ridley sparkled in silver sequins in a V-neck Chanel. In a similarly skin-baring dress, best actress nominee for "Brooklyn" Saoirse Ronan channeled her inner mermaid with a sparkling emerald Calvin Klein dress with an open back and dramatic V-neck. Why the green? "I'm very proud to be Irish," said the nominee, who also wore green when first nominated for an Oscar for "Atonement" in 2008. Barely covered was Olivia Wilde - the bodice of her Valentino dress was little more than two narrow vertical panels - while the Givenchy gown of Rooney Mara, nominated for supporting actress in "Carol," was considered by fashion watchers as the most avant-garde of the night with its dramatic side split and cut-out diamond at the midriff. Black was the never-fail color choice of presenter Julianne Moore, who wore a strappy black Chanel with a corset-like bodice and tulle underskirt, while Jennifer Garner chose Versace in a one-shoulder gown with an elegant panel of satin descending from the hip. Blue was popular this year, including for nominee Sylvester Stallone's tuxedo. A royal blue silk Gucci with cascading ruffles was the choice of Brie Larson, the heavy favorite to win in the best actress category for "Room," while Naomi Watts opted for iridescent blue sequins by Armani Prive. "This has been my dream since I was seven years old," Larson enthused before making her way down the phalanx of photographers. (Reporting By Alexandria Sage; Editing by Mary Milliken and Cynthia Osterman) A migrant holds her baby after arriving on the Greek island of Lesbos, after crossing the Aegean Sea from Turkey, on February 28, 2016 (AFP Photo/Aris Messinis) Vatican City (AFP) - Pope Francis on Sunday urged European countries struggling with the migrant crisis to "share the burden fairly", amid growing divisions on how to handle the flow of people fleeing poverty and war. The pontiff used his address in St Peter's Square to hail the "generous help" offered by Greece and "other countries on the front line", saying the situation "required cooperation among all nations". Nearly 120,000 migrants have arrived in Europe so far this year, according to the latest figures from the UN refugee agency, adding to the one million who made the perilous journey in 2015, mostly across the Aegean Sea from Turkey to the Greek islands. The influx has triggered rows and bitter recrimination among European Union states at odds over who should take in the newcomers. "My prayer, and also certainly yours, does not forget the crisis of the refugees fleeing wars and other inhuman situations," the pope said. "A unanimous response" from European countries is needed to "share the burden fairly", he added. Francis, who has made migrant rights a major theme of his pontificate, said EU states must act decisively. Greece on Sunday warned the number of refugees and migrants on its soil could more than triple next month, reaching as many as 70,000, as a limit on border crossings by Balkan countries left them "trapped" in the country. On Friday four Balkan states including EU members Slovenia and Croatia said they would each restrict the number of migrants entering the country to 580. The clampdown follows moves by Austria last week to introduce a daily cap of 80 asylum applications and let only 3,200 migrants transit the country each day. The caps on migrant arrivals have fuelled a bitter diplomatic row between Athens and Vienna and hand-wringing in Brussels. Greece accuses Austria of unleashing a domino effect of border restrictions along the migrant trail that has led to a bottleneck on Greek soil. * Foxconn, Sharp had failed tie-up in 2012 * Liabilities list sent with top Sharp officials unaware * Foxconn's Gou upset over potential late hitch to deal * Both sides now working to get deal back on track By Makiko Yamazaki and J.R. Wu TOKYO/TAIPEI, March 1 (Reuters) - A late hitch to Foxconn's takeover of Japan's struggling Sharp Corp brought simmering distrust between the two close to boiling point, people with direct knowledge of the matter said. The two companies have eyed each other warily since Foxconn founder and billionaire Terry Gou pulled out of a planned capital tie-up and strategic partnership with Sharp in 2012. Missteps in communication last week, when Sharp's board met and announced a decision to sell a two-thirds stake to the Taiwanese group, ratcheted up tensions, upsetting Gou and causing embarrassment at Sharp. On the eve of that board meeting, Foxconn had asked Sharp to delay voting on a deal as it had just received "new material information" from Sharp that it hadn't seen before and needed to clarify. "It seemed Sharp simply ignored Foxconn," said one individual familiar with Foxconn's take on the matter. The information listed around 300 billion yen ($2.66 billion) in contingent liabilities at Sharp. The list was pulled together by working level officials at Sharp and forwarded, without top officials seeing it, to Foxconn as a goodwill gesture to make the buyer aware of worst-case scenario risks, sources said. They were not liabilities that required formal disclosure. It didn't go down well on the Taiwan side. "They felt violated," said a person briefed on the issue. Another person said Gou shouted at his team for not having discovered these liabilities in the first place. By late Friday, the mood had calmed and the two companies' CEOs met in China to clear the air, sources said. Sharp and Foxconn have now agreed to extend a deadline for the takeover talks by a week or two, reflecting the importance of a deal, estimated to be worth nearly $6 billion, to both sides. Story continues Sharp would have a much-needed financial lifeline, while Foxconn, formally known as Hon Hai Precision Industry Co , would get control of technology it needs to strengthen its hand with major client Apple Inc. RUNNING DEEP The hitch revives lingering ill-will from four years ago, when Foxconn agreed to take a stake in Sharp at 550 yen a share as part of a broader partnership. Then, Sharp warned of losses, and Foxconn walked away. Sharp shares sank 74 percent over the next seven months. Gou, however, personally bought a stake in Sharp's LCD TV panel plant in Osaka, and some at Sharp credit him with improving operations there. A turning point in the latest deal came when Gou wowed Sharp's board, independent directors and creditors with his presentation of a takeover plan on Jan. 30, according to those briefed on the matter. "Terry's a very convincing guy ... I've seen him use his magic," said a person familiar with how Gou operates. Another person familiar with Gou said: "Sharp's blueprint, Terry is very clear about it and knows this stuff like the back of his hand." But there were still nagging doubts in Japan. "There are some doubts whether Hon Hai will really keep its promise," one official involved in the negotiations said on Feb. 4, when Sharp's 13-member board decided to prioritise talks with Foxconn over a competing offer from state-backed Innovation Network Corp of Japan. INCJ had been seen as strong favourite to take over Sharp and keep Japan's insular tech industry out of foreign hands. The next day, Gou flew his team to Sharp's Osaka headquarters and emerged triumphantly waving a document, proclaiming Sharp had granted Foxconn preferred negotiation rights. Sharp officials said the document actually referred to Foxconn's extension of a takeover offer for Sharp. "This made (Sharp CEO Kozo) Takahashi and other executives rethink how trustworthy Gou would be," said one of the sources familiar with thinking in the Sharp camp. That is now in the past. "From these negotiations and from experience, Terry (Gou) has told his team time and again to be more respectful of and have more understanding of Japan's traditions and way of doing things," said one of the sources familiar with the thinking at Foxconn. "Through the communication of the last 2-3 days, from the top level to the team level, I hope (the cooperation) will improve," the person said. ($1 = 112.8400 yen) (Reporting by Makiko Yamazaki and J.R. Wu, with additional reporting by Taro Fuse; Writing by Ritsuko Ando; Editing by Miyoung Kim and Ian Geoghegan) TORONTO, ONTARIO and NEW YORK, NEW YORK--(Marketwired - Feb 29, 2016) - BMO Capital Markets will host its 25th annual Global Metals & Mining Conference from February 28 to March 2, 2016, in Hollywood, Florida. The conference will bring together metals and mining industry leaders and institutional investors from around the world. BMO Capital Markets will celebrate the silver jubilee edition of the conference by welcoming more than 1000 industry professionals representing nearly 500 companies from 28 countries and six continents. "We are proud to once again host the industry at our Global Metals & Mining Conference, an annual event that has for decades celebrated our commitment to the sector across commodities cycles," said Darryl White, Chief Executive Officer, BMO Capital Markets. BMO Capital Markets has been advising companies on the mining industry for more than 100 years, and earlier this month was recognized by Global Finance Magazine for the seventh consecutive year as the world's best investment bank for metals and mining. The conference brings together the global investors and executives who continuously map the future of the diverse and dynamic mining industry. The conference is typically viewed as an early barometer of industry sentiment for the year to come, featuring presentations from some of the world's largest mining companies. Companies scheduled to present at the conference include: Agnico-Eagle Mines (AEM) Agrium Inc. (AGU) Anglo American (AAL) Antofagasta (ANTO) Barrick Gold (ABX) BHP Billiton (BLT) Cameco (CCO) Franco-Nevada (FNV) Freeport-McMoRan Copper & Gold (FCX) Gemfields (GEM) Goldcorp (GG) HudBay Minerals (HBM) Lundin Mining (LUN) Mosaic (MOS) Newmont Mining (NEM) Petra Diamonds (PDL) PotashCorp (POT) Randgold Resources (RRS) Silver Wheaton (SLW) Steel Dynamics (STLD) The three-day event is hosted by the BMO Capital Markets Metals & Mining Equity Research team. With dedicated metals and mining analysts in Toronto, London, and New York, BMO covers more than 150 publicly-listed companies, making it one of the largest mining and fertilizer research groups in the world. Story continues "Our event gives investors the opportunity to get the information and insight they need for the year," said David Gagliano, who co-heads mining research with Andrew Kaip at BMO Capital Markets. "While the current market environment is challenging, we all know that the sector is cyclical. This is absolutely the time to be looking at the space," said Mr. Kaip. Members of the BMO Metals & Mining Equity Research Group include: Andrew Breichmanas, Research Analyst, Precious Metals Sasha Bukacheva, Research Analyst, Base Metals Jessica Fung, Research Analyst, Commodities David Gagliano, Research Analyst, US Metals & Mining Joel Jackson, Research Analyst, Fertilizers & Chemicals Andrew Kaip, Research Analyst, Precious Metals Alexander Pearce, Research Analyst, non-Precious Metals Brian Quast, Research Analyst, Precious Metals Edward Sterck, Research Analyst, Diversified, Uranium, Diamonds For media who would like a copy of the agenda, access to Webcast presentations, or to request a telephone interview, please contact Pav Jordan at BMO Media Relations. Members of the Research team will be available at the close of the conference to discuss the conference and market sentiment. About BMO Capital Markets BMO Capital Markets is a leading, full-service North American financial services provider. With more than 2,300 employees operating in 29 locations, including 16 in North America, BMO Capital Markets offers corporate, institutional and government clients access to a complete range of investment and corporate banking products and services. BMO Capital Markets is a member of BMO Financial Group (BMO)(BMO), One of the largest diversified financial services providers in North America, with total assets of $699 billion as of January 31, 2016, and close to 47,000 employees. Tehran (AFP) - Iran's moderate President Hassan Rouhani won strong public backing and his reformist allies made stunning gains in parliamentary elections, partial results showed Sunday, reducing the potential for opponents to block domestic reform plans. The reformists scored a unanimous victory in Tehran, taking all 30 seats at the expense of conservatives, including several hardline critics of the landmark nuclear deal between Rouhani's government and world powers. The declaration for the capital came with more than 90 percent of votes counted, but the outcome from Friday's polling was mixed elsewhere. Conservatives retained a strong grip in other cities and provinces, meaning that no one political faction was likely to secure majority control of parliament. An AFP tally of results from 206 of the remaining 260 seats had the main conservative list winning 61, the List of Hope alliance between pro-Rouhani reformists and moderates 43, and independents 51. Among the independents, 25 have ties to conservatives, 16 are close to reformists and 10 have no known affiliation. A further 51 seats had no clear winner and will require a second round of voting in April or May. Although Rouhani secured the nuclear agreement last July, ending a 13-year standoff with the West, and sanctions were lifted last month he has so far been unable to deliver even limited social, cultural or political change at home. Support from reformists in the next parliament should make that easier, but the resurgent group is also likely to pressure the president for change and concrete progress on long-avoided difficult issues such as demands to free political prisoners. In comments posted on Twitter beside a picture of smiling voters, young and old, Rouhani hailed the results of the first polls since the nuclear deal as a vote of confidence in the government. - 'A new atmosphere' - "With your skilful voting you've created a new atmosphere. In respect, I stand up before you, great nation, who are the pride of the history of the land of Iran," he wrote on Twitter. Story continues The wins for reformists and losses for hardliners represent "a reaction against radicals" from the electorate, Amir Mohebbian, an analyst with close links to the government and conservatives, told AFP. "But mistakes by the conservatives who supported radicals during the campaign were also to blame," he said. The Tehran landslide was a stunning comeback for reformists, long sidelined after the disputed re-election in 2009 of hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad which was followed by bloody street protests in which dozens were killed. Reformists said that ballot was rigged and their two defeated candidates, Mir Hossein Mousavi and Mehdi Karroubi, have been under house arrest since 2011. Many of their supporters were locked up. The head of the pro-Rouhani coalition, Mohammad Reza Aref, a former vice president, was in first place in Tehran, with 1,403,608 votes. Ali Motahari, an outspoken conservative MP who has spoken out against the house arrest of Mousavi and Karroubi, switched sides and joined the slate headed by Aref for this election. He was in second spot with 1,258,640 votes. There was also good news for Rouhani and his key ally Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani in the second election Iranians voted in on Friday, for the powerful Assembly of Experts, 88 clerics who monitor the work of supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Two of three ayatollahs that the pro-Rouhani list had urged voters to reject -- Ahmad Jannati, Mohammad Yazdi and Mohammad Taghi Mesbah-Yazdi -- were set to lose their seats, according to initial results. - Top clerics may lose out - Only Jannati, who chairs the conservative-dominated Guardian Council which must confirm the results of both elections, was safe, though he was well down the field in 15th place, just one spot within the 16 seats reserved for Tehran. Yazdi, the current chair of the assembly, was in 17th position and Mesbah-Yazdi, a figure famously hostile to reformists, 19th. Elected to an eight-year term, assembly members would pick Khamenei's successor should the 76-year-old die on their watch. Rouhani and Rafsanjani, a former two-term president, held third and first places. Rafsanjani has strongly supported Rouhani's diplomatic engagement on the nuclear talks, which included direct negotiations with the United States, the Islamic republic's bete noire since the 1979 revolution in Tehran. Turnout in the election was solid at around 60 percent, slightly less than the 64 percent of 2012. Khamenei acknowledged the participation late Sunday. "The future parliament has heavy duties," he said. "The country's progress is the primary goal." Final results are expected Monday or Tuesday, but even after all votes are counted by interior ministry officials, the Guardian Council's verification is not expected for several days. Russias arms buildup in Armenia poses a threat to Turkey, NATO, and global economic stability warns former U.S. Ambassador to Bahrain Adam Ereli. His recent article in Forbes magazine details Russias more than one billion dollar militarization on Turkeys eastern border and warns Washington continues to ignore the Armenian buildup, despite threats it poses to NATO member Turkey. Putin is creating a new satellite state on NATOs border and threatening an indispensable U.S. ally, said Ereli, a career diplomat who served in Egypt, Syria and Bahrain. He cites military data that shows Russia is building up its two bases in Armenia, the deployment of 5000 soldiers and other military personnel, as well as arms including modern helicopter gunships and ballistic missiles sent to Armenia. Ereli warns the fractured allegiances in the region, along with Russias support of Syrian dictator Bashar Hafez al-Assad and Turkeys alliance with the United States against ISIS, could be potential fault lines that could snap with dangerous ramifications. Last year a Turkish air force jet shot down a Russian bomber flying missions over Syria after the bomber crossed into Turkeys air space. The incident raised the specter that the Syrian civil war could spread. Ereli writes, The Russian military presence in Armenia represents a dagger pointed at the heart of NATO as the Armenia-Russian alliance strengthens. In the latest episode of Talkeconomics Ambassador Ereli dives deeper into the threats the United States faces from Russia including its alliance with Iran and why lack of a consistent U.S. foreign policy in the region raises dangerous alarms, sooner or later a crisis will strike this part of the world. It could be conflict with Iran or the bloody hand of terror.and make no mistake, American jobs and financial stability will be at stake. Updated March 6, 2016: Ambassador Adam Ereli is the vice chairman of Mercury, a public affairs and strategy firm whose clients include the Turkish Institute for Progress. Related Articles Screen Shot 2016 02 29 at 9.52.46 AM Oil exporters are continuing to fight over China. The latest trade data from China published last week showed that crude-oil imports in January stood at 6.3 million barrels a day. That's 305,000 barrels a day lower year-over-year, making it the first yearly decline since May, according to Barclays analyst Feifei Li. Notably, Russia had the biggest monthly drop in exports to China after overtaking Saudi Arabia in December as the biggest crude exporter to China. Russia exported 796,000 barrels a day to China in the first month of 2016, down 341,000 month-over-month. Barclays' Li suggested that this slowdown could have to do with China's teapot refineries, which are small, private oil refineries in China that have been buying up crude oil with the intention of exporting the final product. Li wrote (emphasis ours): Russia ESPO blend has been popular among Chinese teapot refineries, which received crude import quotas and started importing crude oil last year. However, according to [research firm] Argus, teapot refineries are facing credit constraints from banks. At least two ESPO cargos were defaulted by Chinese teapot refineries due to credit issues. And so while the broader story would seem to focus on the fortunes of major exporters like Saudi Arabia and Russia fighting over market share in China, it's clear that oil buyers in the world's second-largest economy are dealing with their own issues that don't paint a pretty picture of the situation there. In January, China's imports from Saudi Arabia were virtually unchanged at 1 million barrels a day against 1.1 million in the month prior. So thanks to the lower total imports, the Saudis' market share increased to 15.9%, its highest level since June. Screen Shot 2016 02 29 at 9.52.36 AM Russia and Saudi Arabia have been vying for market share in China for some time now. Russia seemed to have the upper hand last month, with RBC Capital Markets' Michael Tran saying this was a big deal as the Saudis had lost the top spot just six times in the past five years. Story continues Moreover, Tran added, the Saudis increased exports to China by only about 120,000 barrels a day over the past five years a growth rate that was beaten by several countries including South Sudan and Colombia. Interestingly, part of Russia's success in China in 2015 had been attributed to its willingness to accept Chinese yuan denominated currency for its oil. (And not, as others have suggested, because of any sort of allegiance to the Chinese-Russian friendship.) The Saudis, however, had a few of their own market-share-capturing tricks. "Owning refineries in key demand regions guarantees market captivity," Tran previously wrote. "This has historically been part of the Saudi playbook and the recent reported interest in acquiring stakes in Chinese refineries is a strategic move that would guarantee the Kingdom a seat at the table in the preeminent region for demand growth." But in any case, the big takeaway from China's latest trade data, Li argues, "showed major crude oil exporters continue to fight for market share in China," even as the situation there appears unsteady. NOW WATCH: Pluto and its moon Charon have something that doesn't exist anywhere else in the solar system More From Business Insider SINGAPORE--(Marketwired - Feb 29, 2016) - This year, Singapore Eye Bank (SEB) celebrates their 25th anniversary of providing human corneal tissue of excellent quality to patients in need of corneal transplant. Founded in 1991, SEB manages its highly successful local Hospital Eye Donation Program and actively participates in the national multi-organ donation programs. With even more reasons to mark their silver jubilee, the momentous occasion also commemorates the organisation's history in receiving the highest number of cornea donations of 222 in 2015, a record high from the previous year's 127 cornea donations. Patients on the local waiting list dropped by 32%. The accomplishment recognises the nation's increasing unity to come together in restoring sight to others over the last 25 years. A most recent 2016 study on global transplantation rates has now revealed that Singapore is the only Asian country within the top 10 countries which have the highest per capita transplant rate, and is also among the top 3 Asian countries in corneal tissue procurement per capita, along with Sri Lanka, our eye banking partner, and India. For many eye donor recipients, the gift of sight is renewed with a legacy of grace and generosity lived through the lives of others. The sight-saving work that these donors have selflessly contributed plays a critical role in corneal transplant and grants a whole new vision for the future. "Over the years we have seen the growth of a meritorious and gracious society, eye donation has steadily increased with 2015 being our best year yet. We recognise that though at a difficult time of bereavement, many Singaporeans are opting to making the decision to give the gift of sight to another. We are especially grateful to the many donors and donor families who has benefitted the lives of others," Professor Donald Tan, Medical Director of SEB. The cornea is the transparent layer forming the front of the eye, and many patients suffering from corneal blindness are able to restore their sight through corneal donation. This process starts with an individual's decision to be an eye, tissue and organ donor, and the Singapore Eye Bank facilitates this important process. People are becoming more educated and aware of the cornea donation process, in that it is a quick and straightforward procedure without any disfigurement. As a result, potential donors and donor families are becoming more open and receptive towards pledging their corneas. Story continues According to combined statistics from all the public hospitals in Singapore, the consent rate of potential donors and donor families is between 50% to 65%. SEB hopes to continue to move forward and increase awareness on cornea donation in ensuring its best to meet the demands of patients waiting for corneal grafts in Singapore. By extensively identifying potential donors and focusing on cornea donation counselling, it hopes to increase the number of actualised cases. SEB is also looking into more means of making it easier to obtain surrogate or familial consent, such as phone interviews, so as to achieve higher rates of procurement of cornea donations. Company logo http://release.media-outreach.com/i/Download/4405 Stocks (^DJI, ^GSPC, ^IXIC, ^RUT) are forging gains in the midday session along with crude oil (CLJ16.NYM), shrugging off some disappointing economic data. Keith Bliss of Cuttone & Co. joins us live from the floor of the New York Stock Exchange to discuss the markets. Yahoo Finance's Alexis Christoforous joins Yahoo Finance Editor-in-Chief Andy Serwer and Yahoo Finance Columnist Rick Newman to talk about some of the other big stories of the day. Dividend stocks popular We began 2016 with more trouble in China, another crude oil slide, and the threat of negative rates (which Fed Chair Janet Yellen said are NOT off the table). So what's an investor to buy in an environment in which bonds aren't promising much and stocks are lackluster? Dividend stocks are gaining popularity and are some of the best performers this year so far. Greg Zuckerman of the Wall Street Journal reports that, while the S&P 500 is down 4.3%, including dividends, another index that includes strong dividend performers, the S&P High Yield Aristocrats Index, is up 1.91%, and the S&P 500 Utility Index is up 6.7%. Top names include Disney (DIS), Verizon (VZ), AT&T (T), Wells Fargo (WFC), Procter & Gamble (PG) and Consolidated Edison (ED). Median income rises It's a milestone in the recovery from the financial crash. Sentier Research finds that last November median annual household income finally rose above what it was before Great Recession began in December of 2007 and continued to gain ground in December. Buffett accounting complaint And finally, when is a GAAP not a GAAP? Yahoo Finance's Sam Ro has a piece out on how Berkshire's Warren Buffett used his annual letter to shareholders to complain about how some companies play fast and loose with generally accepted accounting principles when reporting costs that impact financial results. Buffett also pointed a finger at analysts. He says they play along and are guilty of propagating misleading numbers that can deceive investors. UBS reported its net profits for the year were 3.3 billion Swiss francs (3.09 billion euros, $3.3 billion) (AFP Photo/FABRICE COFFRINI) (AFP/File) Brussels (AFP) - Belgium on Friday charged Swiss banking giant UBS with "serious and organised" fiscal fraud for encouraging clients to cheat on their taxes, as well as being involved in money laundering. UBS is also under investigation in the US and France accused of using Switzerland's banking secrecy laws to help rich clients avoid tax in their home countries. "The Swiss bank is suspected of having approached Belgian clients directly (without going through its Belgian unit) with the aim of getting them to sign up to tax evasion products," the federal prosecutor's office said in a statement. It said the charge sheet covered criminal activity involving "money laundering, illegally acting as a financial intermediary in Belgium, and serious and organised fiscal fraud." A spokeswoman for the prosecutor's office said there was no deadline to close the case, and a judge would decide to hold a trial or not. The charges followed "excellent cooperation" with the French authorities, the statement said, adding that no further details would be released for the moment. UBS told AFP in an email that it would "continue with its vigorous defense against unfounded allegations." In 2014, the head of the UBS subsidiary in Belgium, Marcel Bruehwiler, a Swiss national, was also indicted for money laundering and tax fraud. At the time, Belgian officials spoke of billions of euros (dollars) deposited in secret bank accounts in Switzerland on behalf of rich Belgians. Last week, French judges completed an investigation into allegations that UBS and its local unit had encouraged clients to open accounts in Switzerland so as to avoid the taxes during the period 2004-12. UBS has been embroiled in a whole series of similar cases, most notably in the United States where the authorities said the bank allowed US customers to conceal their assets and income from the taxman. (Adds Sessions endorsement) By Jonathan Allen NEW YORK, Feb 28 (Reuters) - Meg Whitman, the head of technology firm Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co, said on Sunday that Donald Trump was "unfit" for the U.S. presidency, and criticized New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, whose failed presidential bid she supported, for endorsing him. But, later in the day, Trump picked up another high-profile endorsement, from U.S. Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama, a leading conservative. Trump's insurgent campaign has riven the Republican Party, with party leaders openly discussing how to thwart the will of the tens of thousands of members who have voted for Trump, helping him comfortably win in three of the four states that have so far held nominating contests. Party leaders are nervous that Trump, a billionaire real-estate developer from New York City who deviates from some of the central tenets of Republican conservatism, may alienate voters if he is their candidate in the Nov. 8 general election. He has proposed banning Muslims from entering the United States and declined a journalist's invitation on Sunday to condemn the Ku Klux Klan, the violent white-supremacist group. Christie, who scrapped his own presidential bid earlier this month, became the most prominent Republican figure to break ranks with party leadership by endorsing Trump on Friday ahead of this week's "Super Tuesday" contests, when voters in 11 states go to the polls. Whitman, who was a co-chairwoman of the national finance committee of Christie's campaign, said in a statement to reporters that Trump would take the country on "a dangerous journey" and that Christie was aware of this. "Chris Christie's endorsement of Donald Trump is an astonishing display of political opportunism. Donald Trump is unfit to be president", said the statement from Whitman, who is chief executive and president of Hewlett Packard Enterprise and chairman of HP Inc. She called on Christie's donors not to follow him to Trump, who has predominantly funded his campaign with personal loans. Representatives of Christie and Trump did not respond to requests for comment. Story continues Earlier on Sunday, Trump was asked repeatedly if he would unequivocally condemn the Klan and other support from white supremacists. "I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists," Trump told CNN's Jake Tapper after being asked about his endorsement by David Duke, a former Klan leader. "If you would send me a list of the groups, I will do research on them and certainly I would disavow if I thought there was something wrong." Previously, Trump had seemed less uncertain about his views on Duke. "David Duke endorsed me?" he said in a response to a reporter. "Alright. I disavow. OK?" His latest backer, Senator Sessions, has had to defend his own controversial comments about the Klan in the past. In 1986, he admitted during an unsuccessful confirmation hearing to become a federal judge that he had said he thought the Klan was "OK" until he came to believe that some members smoked marijuana. He explained that these remarks were a joke and has since called the Klan "destestable." In a separate interview on Sunday, Trump also defended posting on his Twitter account a quote sometimes attributed to Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini. He told NBC News he did not realize that the quote - "It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep" - was associated Mussolini but said it did not matter because it was a good aphorism all the same. Many party leaders hope U.S. Senator Marco Rubio of Florida will somehow overtake Trump before the party's nominating convention in July, despite Rubio's not having won any states and lagging behind in Trump in opinion polls. In recent days, Rubio has taken to adopting Trump's habit of using adolescent insults to denigrate his rival, suggesting on Friday that Trump urinated in his trousers during last week's televised debate. Rubio and U.S. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas, the only Republican to yet beat Trump in a primary election, both criticized Trump's reticence to speak ill of the Klan on Sunday. "We cannot be a party that nominates someone who refused to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," Rubio told a crowd of voters in Purcellville, Virginia, MSNBC reported. (Additional reporting by Alana Wise in Washington; Editing by Jonathan Oatis) tesla battery gigafactory site reno nevada feb 25 2015 photo cc by nc sa 4 0 bob tregilus_100502191_l Construction workers at the Tesla Gigafactory site near Reno, Nevada, walked off the job Monday, local news station KOLO reported. As part of the protest, an estimated 350 local workers left their jobs, leaving about 60 laborers still working on-site. Bloomberg later reported only 100 took to the protest. The protest came from a local labor union that is against Tesla outsourcing some of its jobs to a third party, nonunion contractor Brycon Construction. Given the $1.4 billion in tax incentives that the car company received to build its factory, union workers feel the jobs should be kept for local construction workers in Nevada. "Today's activity stems from the local Carpenters Union protesting against one of the third party construction contractors that Tesla is using at the Gigafactory," a Tesla representative told Business Insider. "Their issue is not with how Tesla treats its workers. Their issue is that of the many third party contractors that are involved in the construction of the Gigafactory, many are union but the one at issue is not." Nevada requires that at least 50% of employees to be from the state; Tesla argues it well exceeds that number. "The union is also claiming that this contractor is somehow favoring out of state workers," the Tesla representative added. "In reality, more than 50% of the workers used by this contractor and more than 75% of the entire Gigafactory workforce are Nevada residents, demonstrating the projects strong commitment to Nevada." Brycon Construction could not be reached for comment. NOW WATCH: Elon Musk just revealed how you can reserve the new $35,000 Tesla More From Business Insider BANGKOK, Feb 29 (Reuters) - TCC Group, which is controlled by Thai billionaire Charoen Sirivadhanabhakdi, said on Monday it planned to invest more than 23 billion baht ($644 million) through 2020 to build and renovate seven hotels in Thailand under the Marriott brand. The plan is designed to serve growing demand for tourism and business travellers in Thailand, a centre for international conferences and exhibitions in Southeast Asia, Wallapa Traisorat, president and deputy CEO of TCC Land Asset World, told reporters. TCC Land Asset World has signed contracts with Marriott International to manage the seven hotels in prime locations in Bangkok and city resorts in Hua Hin, Phuket and Pattaya, Wallapa said. Of the seven, three luxury hotels will be open later this year, increasing the number of TCC Group hotels to 43 with 10,000 rooms in total, a statement said. TCC Land Asset World is part of TCC Group, one of Thailand's leading conglomerates. Marriott has 16 hotels and resorts with 3,500 rooms in Thailand and the company is aiming to add more than 3,000 rooms to reach 6,500 rooms by 2018, the statement said. ($1 = 35.7100 baht) (Reporting by Manunphattr Dhanananphorn; writing by Khettiya Jittapong; editing by David Clarke) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Three U.S. lawmakers are urging the U.S. Treasury Department to conduct a rigorous national security review of any deal that China's Zoomlion makes to buy U.S. crane maker Terex Corp (TEX.N). Terex had reached a deal to be purchased by Finland's Konecranes (KCR1V.HE) but has been considering an approach by Zoomlion. Last week, Terex urged the Chinese company to sweeten its $3.3 billion offer but did not say how much higher Zoomlion needed to go to win an agreement. That has worried at least three lawmakers, who wrote to the Treasury Department, which heads the inter-agency Commission on Foreign Investment in the United States. CFIUS reviews mergers and investment by foreign firms that might harm national security. Republican Representatives Mike Rogers of Alabama and Walter Jones of North Carolina wrote letters last week to U.S. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew urging that CFIUS carefully review the prospective deal because of Terex's defence contracts. "I strongly caution you to apply robust scrutiny to any possible Chinese takeover of an American company that supplies resources to our service members," wrote Jones, who sits on the House of Representatives Armed Services Committee. Republican Representative Duncan Hunter of California, who is also on the Armed Services Committee, wrote a similar letter in mid-February. (Reporting by Diane Bartz; Editing by Peter Cooney) Broken asteroid dinosaur belt Eight days from now a 100-foot-diameter asteroid named "2013 TX68" will fly past Earth for the second time in recorded history. One hundred feet is about the size of a blue whale, but to be clear, 2013 TX68 is not considered a potentially hazardous asteroid and poses no catastrophic threat to human life on Earth. Still, NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) has had its eye on this space rock since it was discovered in 2013. The NASA-funded Catalina Sky Survey first spotted 2013 TX68 on Oct. 6, 2013 while it was passing at a distance of 1.3 million miles away. Now, according to the latest updates on the asteroid's location and orbit, the CNEOS has estimated that "2013 TX68" will fly past Earth on March 8 at a safe distance of 3 million miles away. That's a distance of about 12.5 times farther away than the Moon is from Earth. Unfortunately for asteroid spotters, this means that we likely won't have a chance to see the asteroid upon its closest approach. "There is no concern whatsoever regarding this asteroid unless you were interested in seeing it with a telescope," Paul Chodas, the manager of CNEOS, said in a press release. "Prospects for observing this asteroid, which were not very good to begin with, are now even worse because the asteroid is likely to be farther away, and therefore dimmer than previously believed." Chodas admitted that because this asteroid is hard to spot, the data on its location is too sparse for the CNEOS to map its orbit completely. And this does leave a bit of uncertainty about exactly where the asteroid will be and when. For instance, there's a small chance that on March 8, 2016, this asteroid could get as close to our planet as 15,000 miles away. That's still too far to do any harm, fortunately. Twice as powerful as the Chelyabinsk event asteroid20160225 16 Even if 2013 TX68 were going to make contact with Earth, an asteroid this size poses no catastrophic threat to human life. Story continues While it's currently the size of a blue whale, Earth's atmosphere would make quick work of the asteroid, whittling it down to a fraction of its current size. But it could still cause some damage. For some idea of just how much, NASA calculated what might happen if 2013 TX68 were to enter Earth's atmosphere. It would likely generate a radiant fireball that would explode close to the surface, but before hitting the ground. Such an explosion is called an air burst, and it's the blast wave from air bursts like these that can be dangerous. The Chelyabinsk event in 2013, for example, generated three different air bursts, the most powerful of which released the equivalent energy of 500,000 tons of TNT. 2013 TX68 is about twice the size of the asteroid that broke up over Chelyabinsk, Russia, and NASA calculated that it would release twice as much energy or about the same as 1 million tons of TNT. But, again, the chances of this happening on March 8 are zero. However, March 8 won't be the last time we hear of 2013 TX68. It's expected to pass by Earth three more times this century in 2017, 2046, and 2097. But the odds of an impact are slim to none. CNEOS estimated that the odds of an impact on Sep. 28, 2017 are 1 in 250 million you have a far better chance of dying from a lightning strike than from this asteroid. And the odds of a later impact in 2046 or 2097 are even lower. In the mean time, CNEOS will continue to monitor the asteroid. "I fully expect any future observations to reduce the probability even more," Chodas said. NOW WATCH: Scientists are bashing authorities claims that a meteorite killed a bus driver in India More From Business Insider Global yields on government bonds are plummeting, in a descent that has a little bit to do with monetary policy, and a lot to do with an ongoing flight to safety among investors. U.S. Treasury yields dipped to levels not seen in a year10-year yields tested a low of 1.70% Tuesday morning, having already dropped some 50 basis points since the end of 2015. Japanese yields on 10-year debt, meanwhile, went negative for the first time. And eurozone yields werent doing that much better10-year German bunds hit their lowest levels since last April. Investors Flock To Treasury Bond ETFs Investors have been piling into the security of government-issued debt so far in 2016. On the ETF front, that demand can been seen in funds such as the iShares Short Treasury Bond ETF (SHV | A-97), and the iShares 20+ Year Treasury Bond ETF (TLT | A-83). Even aggregate bond funds have captured assets year-to-date. Check out the sampling of funds below: There are three key factors driving yields lower across the globe: Concerns over global growth centered on China, weak commodities prices and oil prices relentless decline. Emerging markets and developed markets alike are all struggling to spur growth. Widening of credit default swap spreads for banks, according to MarketWatch. These spreads are measured between bondssuch as corporate debtand Treasurys of similar maturity. The wider they are, the more risk is associated with the companies issuing the debt, and the more favorable Treasurys look. From a sector performance, financials are the second-weakest sector in the S&P 500 year-to-date. Monetary policy in Japan essentially allowed yields there to go negative for the first time. As the Wall Street Journal put it: Its the latest sign that the worlds central banks are seeing their carefully laid-out plans unwound by a panicky market. The Bank of Japan surprised markets, and now experts are saying that even lower rates could be in the cards. Story continues All this weakness globally makes the safety of U.S. Treasurysand the stronger yield in relative termsparticularly compelling. The demand is pushing up Treasury prices, which pressure the yields. Contact Cinthia Murphy at cmurphy@etf.com. Recommended Stories Permalink | Copyright 2016 ETF.com. All rights reserved (Adds details, Revenue Authority) LUSAKA, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Zambia's copper production will be around 700,000 tonnes this year and next year before rising to 1 million tonnes in 2018, a top government official said on Monday. Copper production in Africa's second-biggest producer of the metal inched higher to 711,515 tonnes in 2015 from 708,000 tonnes the previous year mainly due to a new mine owned by Canada's First Quantum Minerals. "We are likely be in the same level as last year because the pricing of copper has been consistently low and some mines have frozen production," Mining ministry permanent secretary Paul Chanda told Reuters. Chanda said Zambia's copper production would jump to about 1 million tonnes in 2018 when prices of the metal were expected to start rising. Zambia also launched a pilot project for introduction of a new system under which mining companies would be required to report their production electronically. Zambia Revenue Authority Commissioner of Customs Dingani Banda said during the launch that the new system would improve accuracy in reporting of mineral quantities and quality by mining companies. "Overall we expect that these measures will enhance collection of revenue," Banda said. Banda said the new system would start with Chambishi, Launshya and Lubambe mines before rolling it out later this year. Other mining companies operating in Zambia include Glencore , Vedanta Resources and Barrick Gold. (Reporting by Chris Mfula; Editing by James Macharia) The River Falls First Covenant Church 2016 Mission to Ecuador Blog 2000 - 2022 24 .- . focus-news.net, () . 24 . 24 . . 24 . Comment Policy Advance Indiana allows you to post comments via this blog subject to the guidelines set forth herein. You understand that any comments you post are your own and are not those of Advance Indiana. You further understand that Advance Indiana is not responsible for the content of any external sites referenced in your comments. 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CCTV footage released in anti-Syrian, anti-Trudeau graffiti spreeCalgary police have released CCTV footage and are asking the public for help in identifying suspects in several cases of school graffiti that involved messages urging readers to "kill" the prime minister and telling Syrian refugees to "go home and die.""The Calgary Police Service takes the anti-Syrian and anti-Trudeau references seriously and is investigating accordingly," police said in a statement, adding that the incidents are being investigated as hate crimes.The series of incidents occurred at two schools and a community rink in the southeast community of Queensland.The first case of hateful graffiti was found on Feb. 14 when a passerby noticed the anti-Syrian and anti-Trudeau messages scrawled in black paint on Wilma Hansen Junior High School.Police released this security-camera video of that incident: Cornflowers and forget-me-nots for Queens 90th birthday china Wildflowers give more personal touch to commemorative china that goes on sale today By Gordon Rayner , Chief Reporter29 Feb 2016The TelegraphWhen the Queen was born 90 years ago, forget-me-nots were in flower up and down the country.Now the pale blue wild flowers have provided inspiration for the official range of china to commemorate Her Majestys 90th birthday in April Together with cornflowers, which bloom in June, the month of the Queens official birthday, they form a recurring theme on the cups, plates and pill boxes that go on sale today.Hand finished in 22 carat gold, the range of English fine bone china was made in Stoke-on-Trent using traditional techniques that date back 250 years.Ian Grant, production controller for the Royal Collection Trust, said: "I'm happy to say the Queen was delighted when she saw the china."The feedback we received was that she was very pleased and thought the design was lovely."He said the flowers were chosen to add a lighter, more personal touch to the birthday pieces."We wanted to put out something that was a little bit different, said Mr Grant. "Many of the commemorative ranges to mark events such as jubilees and coronations can be quite formal in their appearance."Here we wanted to put out something that was much more personal and delicate in celebrating the 90th birthday of the Queen."The central feature of the design is the Queen's coat of arms - we thought what better to surround that than flowers that might be in bloom both at the time of her actual birthday and official birthday in June."We made a garland of those two flowers together to surround the coat of arms."Among the items are a mug and a tankard which both feature the words of duty uttered by the Queen, then Princess Elizabeth, in 1947 in a radio broadcast from South Africa on her 21st birthday: "I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service."The range includes a mug for 25, a pill box (29), tankard (39), side plate (39), teacup and saucer (55) and large plate (89).The central feature of the design is the Royal Arms encircled by ribbons tied in a bow and surrounded by garlands of roses, shamrocks and thistles, representing Great BritainMany of the pieces are edged with an "il-de-perdrix" (partridge eye) pattern - circles with dots in them - inspired by the decoration of 18th century Sevres porcelain in the Royal Collection, which ranks as the finest in the world and was amassed mostly by the extravagant George IV.All profits from the sale of the china go to the registered charity, the Royal Collection Trust. Limited edition pieces in the collection will be introduced at a later date.The china can be purchased online from the Royal Collection Online Shop and in Royal Collection Trust shops at The Queen's Gallery, Buckingham Palace and on Buckingham Palace Road, and at Royal Collection Trust shops at Windsor Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse. The ACLU of Nebraska is urging Colfax, Dakota and Dawson counties to provide bilingual voting materials. The three are obligated to do so because more than 5 percent of the total voting-age population in each speaks a minority language, ACLU of Nebraska Legal Director Amy Miller said in a release last week. Under the federal Voting Rights Act, election materials including registration forms, ballots, information pamphlets and similar materials must be offered in that language. Four years ago, officials in the three counties indicated they were compliant with the law at the time. Our recent review, however, showed that Dakota is currently the only county that has forms on their website in all the required languages," Miller said Thursday. "We hope that the other counties will join them to make democracy as accessible as possible to all eligible Nebraskans. Colfax County had Spanish-language forms available on paper last week and online as well by Monday, but Dawson County had none in either Spanish or English on its website, Miller said. Election Commissioner Rita Mundil said she feels Colfax County is compliant and wont be making additional changes to the website. Based on census figures, the county has been required to have bilingual ballots and signage at voting precincts in Schuyler, as well as other material like registration forms and notices since 2002. Colfaxs website can also be viewed in Spanish and other languages using a translation option on the home page. Mundil said she has been working with the Department of Justice for many years to ensure compliancy. After having their North Omaha residence riddled with bullets by drive-by shooters, George and Victoria McClellan hoped to find a safe place in Plattsmouth for their family of seven to live. After nestling down in a home for a week at 412 South First Street, the McClellan family found themselves in need of a home Feb. 22 after a fire gutted the rental property they were living in. Plattsmouth Volunteer Fire Department member Bob Heckman was on the scene of the house fire and wanted to help the family through the Mynard Liberty United Methodist Church (UMC). We try to do everything we can to assist people in our community when tragedy occurs, Heckman said. We want to assist this family in making the best of a bad situation. Its not the first time weve helped a family after a fire, but this is the first with the most need. First and foremost, the family needs a big enough place to live for the family members: George and Victoria; their daughter and son-in-law Terron, 30, and Nick Poggi; younger children 13-year-old Caden, 10-year-old Julian, 5-year-old Madison and 3-year-old Landon. After the fire, I noticed George didnt even have a coat, Bob said. He has one now. The fire destroyed all of the familys worldly possessions. They need clothing, household goods, furniture, bedding and more. Clothing donations are more than welcome in size large for Victoria, 3X or 4X for George, XL for Julian, large for Julian, 10-12 for Madison, size 5 toddler for Landon, and 2X for Terron and Nick. George is unable to work. He has been diagnosed with three brain tumors and he has diabetes. Their daughter, Terron, has a baby due in April, Heckman said. One of the church members donated a laptop computer to George, who basically is home-bound due to his illnesses. George doesnt get out much, Victoria said. The family is temporarily staying at Roadway Inn in Bellevue. The Red Cross helped us with the motel expenses. Were praying we find a house, Victoria explained. Liberty UMC board of directors will meet soon to discuss how the church can best meet the familys needs. We dont have the biggest congregation, but of all the churches in the state of Nebraska, we have the biggest hearts, Bob said. Anyone interested in donating to the McClellan family may call Victoria at 402-598-0058. Heckman said the family would especially appreciate lightly used, pre-owned toys because the children have nothing to play with at this point. OMAHA Plattsmouth High School students earned awards for their musical abilities this past week at a regional event in Omaha. Members of the Plattsmouth Jazz One band and Jazz Combo ensemble took part in the Great Plains Jazz Festival at the University of Nebraska-Omaha on Friday. More than 40 high school bands from across the Midwest traveled to the UNO campus for the event. Three members of Plattsmouth Jazz One earned Music Achievement Awards for their individual performances during the festival. Judges recognized Griffin Gillen on piano, Zach Prall on drumset and Nolan Randall on tenor saxophone. Five members of Plattsmouth Jazz Combo collected Music Achievement Awards. Samuel Babe (bass), Kayla Blinston (tenor saxophone), Parker Cundall (drumset), Grace Roby (trumpet) and Gillen (piano) all earned recognition. Judges also gave Plattsmouth Jazz Combo a group honor at the end of the day. The ensemble received a I rating for its performance. That is the highest rating available on judging scorecards. PLATTSMOUTH A Plattsmouth man will spend time in state prison for stealing items from multiple Plattsmouth homes last spring. David P. Warren, 31, appeared in Cass County District Court Monday morning for a sentencing hearing. Warren had pled guilty to one Class III felony of theft by taking-more than $1,500 and one Class II misdemeanor of theft/receiving stolen property-$200 or less in November. Warren broke into a Plattsmouth home in April 2015 and took nearly a dozen pieces of jewelry from the residence. Some of the more expensive items included two wedding rings, one crystal necklace and one ruby ring. Warren took the jewelry to several locations in eastern Nebraska and pawned them for money. He received $145 at one business and $34 at another business. Warren broke into the garage of another Plattsmouth home in early May. He stole several wooden crates and a blasting box from the property. He later pawned those items for $85. The owners of the two businesses became suspicious about Warrens behavior and contacted authorities about the items. Plattsmouth police interviewed Warren and learned he had stolen the items from the local homeowners. Deputy County Attorney Richard Fedde told the court he felt Warrens actions warranted a prison sentence. He said the case involving the stolen jewelry was concerning because of the sentimental value attached with the wedding rings and personal necklace. Youre basically stealing someones memories in this case, Fedde said. Stealing someones rings is akin to stealing someones photo album. Fedde said Warrens criminal record included several similar offenses. He had been previously convicted of theft, criminal trespassing and obstruction of a peace officer. Fedde said there was also a current case pending against Warren for an alleged theft of metals. It shows that he has a lack of concern for people who were damaged by these cases, Fedde said. He certainly hasnt learned anything from his past behavior. Defense attorney Julie Bear asked the court to issue a structured probation sentence. She said her client had paid all restitution and had appeared for all of his court hearings. She said he had previously spent 31 days in Cass County Jail before posting bond. Judge Jeffrey Funke said he was concerned about Warrens pattern of behavior over the past six years. He said a prison sentence was appropriate because of the nature of the current thefts and the frequency of the recent convictions. You have a disregard for the law and a disregard for what other people have accumulated, Funke said. Funke sentenced Warren to serve a term of two to four years in the Nebraska Department of Corrections. He will be given credit for 31 days already served. Warren will be eligible for parole in 12 months and will be mandatorily released in 23 months. PLATTSMOUTH A Plattsmouth man learned Monday morning that he would serve a prison sentence for violating requirements of the Nebraska Sex Offender Registry. Kyle W. Jordan, 25, appeared in Cass County District Court for a sentencing hearing. Jordan had pled guilty in late January to a Class IIIA felony of violation of sexual offender registration-failure to report address change. Cass County Attorney Nathan Cox told the court in earlier hearings that Jordan had disobeyed several terms of the Nebraska Sex Offender Registry. Jordan had been placed on the registry in 2011 after he pled guilty to a Class II felony of sexual assault of a minor-statutory age 12-15. He spent six months in Cass County Jail in 2012 for violating several aspects of his probation. Jordan was charged this past year with failure to report an address change. Cox said Jordan had been staying at a Plattsmouth home but moved away without telling authorities. He said Jordan had also left his place of work in Plattsmouth early one day and never returned. Jordan was removed from a pre-trial release program late last year for violating several terms of that arrangement. Cox said Jordan had failed to keep a battery in his GPS-tracking device charged at all times. He said Jordan had also admitted drinking alcohol and had stopped communicating with pre-trial release supervisors. Cox and defense attorney Angela Minahan both asked the court to follow terms of a plea deal. They asked the court to issue a one-year prison sentence and an 18-month term on post-release supervision. Judge Jeffrey Funke said he would follow the recommendations. Jordan will receive credit for 79 days he has already served at Cass County Jail. He will serve approximately 100 days in the Nebraska Department of Corrections before being released. Funke said Jordan will be required to comply with multiple orders during the post-release supervision period. Jordan must verify with the court that he has completed a drug and alcohol treatment program. He will also be required to maintain employment, abstain from all alcohol and drugs and submit to random drug tests. A legislative bill that caused concern or was deemed unnecessary by some library officials wont be heard on the floor of the Nebraska Legislature this session. In January, State Sen. Tyson Larson (Dist. 40) of ONeill introduced LB969, which essentially would have given more oversight of the libraries to cities and villages. Cities or villages would handle responsibilities such as setting the library budget and hiring and firing. Library boards would determine what materials would be included in the facility, the bill states. Larson, whose district encompasses a 6,600-mile area, said he introduced the bill after working with cities across the state. In one community, a librarian committed what would have been termination offenses, he said. The city council had no authority to terminate the librarian, because that power rested solely with the library board, which didnt want to do that. In small towns, Larson said, volunteers on boards may not want to terminate someone, even if warranted, because theyre neighbors. More investigation showed there were a number of instances across the state where this was an issue. In another city, a library board told an applicant that she couldnt be hired, because she was too old. That led to a lawsuit against the city. Cities wanted more oversight like they have over other divisions of government, but didnt want to try to take away First Amendment rights, he said. LB969, I believe, is a good compromise in the sense of letting the cities that control the taxpayer dollars handle the budgeting and the contractors, the personal policies and the hiring and firing, those types of issues, while at the same time keeping library boards in place to decide on content what books are going to be bought, what materials are there, Larson said. I can understand the concern that they dont want politicians or elected people deciding what books their kids could read. We dont want to ban books or do anything like that. We just want responsible government. I think thats best left in the hands of those that are elected and responsible with the voters. The bill also would have cities determine how much of a budget would go to personnel, content and facilities. With fewer than 30 days left in the Legislative session, LB96 doesnt have a priority designation and wont be heard this year. Thats whats happens in short session, you have to pick what your priorities are going to be, Larson said. This year, I personally had other issues that were higher on my priority list. Moving forward, LB969 will be very important for things such as transparency in good government. Larson said hell probably reintroduce the bill next year. The bill has concerned some library officials. Gary Wasdin, former executive director for the Omaha Public Library, urged Nebraskans to email senators urging them to stop the bill. Now library director for the King County Library System in the state of Washington, Wasdin listed on a Facebook page things hed previously been asked to do by Omahas elected officials. Some included: charging people to come to Storytime or to use a meeting room or to borrow things like DVDs and audio books; not buying books in Spanish; finding a way to keep homeless people out of the library; giving police information on what books people have read or websites theyve visited without a court order; not spending so much time getting kids to use the library since schools have them. If it werent for a governing board of trustees, I would have been obligated to do them, Wasdin said. Attempts to reach Wasdin Friday were unsuccessful, but on Tuesday Steve Fosselman, chairman of the Nebraska Library Advocacy Committee, described the bill as one that would permit cities to reform their public libraries, turning library boards with policy-making authority and ability to hire the library director into advisory boards. Fosselman noted that most cities and libraries get along well and have done so for more than 140 years. I believe it would be a fair statement to say that in almost all libraries in the state, there are absolutely no problems between the libraries and the city, he said. The concerns that the Nebraska Library Association has are that it is pretty apparent that this bill was written because of a very, very small number of situations in the state. Fosselman believes situations are best handled through managing problems, not writing new legislation, and said the library commission can help. Anytime any library is having a situation where they would need a little bit more help in managing between the library and the city, the Nebraska Library Commission is very well prepared to help both parties, he said. He also believes that when it comes to the politics of the moment, a governing board is the best insulation for the public. Fosselman said he doesnt assume that an advisory board would be pressured, and noted that many have great relationships with their city councils, but added that the library commission is concerned about any further diminishing of the powers of a library board. The commission will continue to track the proposed legislation. Fosselman also said he has high respect for Larson, the legislative process and great respect for the library commission. Get new posts by email: Subscribe easyJet, Europes leading airline, started its new route from London Southend Airport to Paris Charles de Gaulle. The new route to the worlds most romantic city is easyJets 15th from London Southend and the airline is expected to carry 50,000 passengers a year between London Southend and the French Capital. The first flight EZY 7419 was on Friday, 26 February 2016. Passengers on board the first flight were given a warm, Parisian style send off by a colorful troupe of Can-Can girls. New York may have the buzz and London may have the nightlife, but Paris has the romance, the architecture and the food. The City of Light (as it is dubbed) has long been preferred city break destination for travellers who come for the unrivalled architecture, the quality of its restaurants and romantic night cruises down the River Seine. But there is more to Paris than just the language of love. This place is also the capital of fashion, haute cuisine and is one of the most culturally rich cities in the world. Paris is full of galleries dripping with artistic masterpieces and streets filled with some of the most iconic buildings in the world. Aeroflot will launch regular flights between Moscow and Lyon, France. Starting from June 3, 2016, Aeroflot will operate flights 3 times per week on comfortable modern Airbus A320 aircraft on the following schedule: - Flight SU 2480 leaves Moscow at 10:25 and arrives in Lyon at 13:15 (all time is local); - Return SU 2481 flight leaves Lyon at 14:25 and arrives in Moscow at 19:05 (all time is local). Lyon is a commercial and industrial center of France, a city of museums and universities, which architectural heritage is protected by UNESCO. The continuous route network expansion and service quality improvement promote success of Aeroflots strategy aimed at becoming a world-class air carrier offering a global network. There's an excellent review of this series from the Guardian, and it says some of what I'm going to say, but I think it's too kind. One of these days we... 1 year ago SM comments on submarines, non-submarine weapons & major international events. If Australia wants truly independent foreign/defence policies, we are so isolated that we need to develop a convincing deterrent far sooner than any Aus SSNs arrive (or not) in the 2040s. Deterrent is mainly against China. Are you interested in getting your company, event, or institution noticed? Advertise with the GRC on Global Geothermal News - Contact at dgroves@geothermal.org English Danish COMPANY ANNOUNCEMENT No. 12/2016 Copenhagen, 29 February 2016 Proposals for Motions to Be Included in the Agenda of the Annual General Meeting As previously announced the Annual General Meeting of Scandinavian Tobacco Group A/S will take place on 26 April 2016. Shareholders who wish to have a proposed motion included in the agenda of the Annual General Meeting must inform the Board of Directors of Scandinavian Tobacco Group A/S in writing. Requests must be received no later than 14 March 2016. Please send your request to investor@st-group.com or to Scandinavian Tobacco Group A/S, Sydmarken 42, 2860 Sborg. Please mark your communication "Annual General Meeting". For further information, please contact: For media enquiries: Kaspar Bach Habersaat, Director of Group Communications, phone: +45 7220 7152 or kaspar.bach@st-group.com. For investor enquiries: Torben Sand, Head of Investor Relations, phone: +45 7220 7126 or torben.sand@st-group.com. Latvian English Riga, 2016-02-29 16:25 CET (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Company was established in 1900 and operates under the current name since 1970. Due to SPI Group internal reorganization the major shareholder of JSC Latvijas balzams from October 2014 is Amber Beverage Group LLC which owns 89.99% of the Companys equity capital (previous major shareholder S.P.I. Regional Business Unit B.V.). JSC Latvijas balzams is the largest producer of alcoholic beverages in the Baltic States with a range of more than 100 different products. Our production is exported to more than 160 export markets as mediated by Stoli Group, and to 42 markets via the Company`s direct export route. The Company`s Activity The unaudited turnover of the Company in 2015 was 73.41 million Euros, which is 0.5% more than in 2014. The growth of turnover was mainly driven by increase in orders from Stoli Group by 4.85%, however there is significant decrease in sales volumes to Russia and Ukraine. The unaudited profit for the reporting period reached 7.06 million Euros that represents 11% decrease versus 2014 that based on decrease of sales in most profitable markets, as well as developing of platform for future growth in other export markets by investing in advertising and sales promo activities for JSC Latvijas balzams branded products. During 2015 JSC Latvijas balzams paid 53 million Euros into the state budget, including excise tax amounting to 40.1 million Euros. Outlook of Future Activities Latvijas Balsams outlook for the year ahead is one of caution as the impact of the situation in Russia, with the price of oil coupled with the slowed down in China and the uncertainty around the EU is expected to dampen growth in 2016. The Company will continue its purposeful focus on the achievement of objectives in both domestic and export markets. Our priorities will continue to be to focus on our domestic business, on building our international brands, and on implementation of effective production strategy to increase the Company`s competitiveness. Latvijas Balsams will by active participation in the Industry Association and by cooperating with non-governmental organizations, represent the interests of industry in any dialogue with legislators and law enforcement institutions and promote a responsible policy on development in the alcohol market and to focus on the public education on these issues. For example Latvijas Balsams will continue to combat the production and illegal distribution of non-commercial alcoholic beverages. AS Latvijas balzams Chairman of the Board Seymour Paul Ferreira Riga, February 29, 2016 OKLAHOMA CITY, Feb. 29, 2016 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Scottsdale Mint's Biblical Coin Series pays tribute to the remarkable stories that have captured hearts and souls for centuries. As the second coin of a six-part series coming out in 2016, The Last Supper coin foreshadows one of the most agonizing stories of all breaking bread with those who break your trust. Cast in 2 oz of .999 fine Silver, the scene depicts Jesus' final meal with his 12 disciples, as inspired by Gustave Dore's illustration. Though among his friends and believers, Jesus reveals one of them has betrayed him and another will deny him. Jesus accepts his disciples' actions as a means to his inevitable sacrifice, offering his body and blood both at the meal and for eternity. Held just before Christ's arrest, trial, crucifixion and death, the event is one of the most pivotal and recognized moments in the Bible. "The Last Supper coin is crucial to the series," APMEX Vice President of Merchandising Andrew Martineau said. "Without the betrayal, there would be no stories of resurrection and redemption. This coin brings guilt, forgiveness and the promise of a better future to the surface. Who can't identify with those themes?" With a limited mintage of 1,499 coins, the Passover-related coin is not one for collectors to pass over. Each coin comes with a certificate of authenticity telling the story of the coin, its minting specifications and listing a unique serial number that matches the laser-etched number on the coin. The certificate also features Dore's artwork the design was based off. The Scottsdale Mint issues the coin by the authority of the island of Niue, where it is legal tender. This exquisite new coin is available for pre-sale at APMEX and will be available to ship March 7. About APMEX, Inc. For more than 15 years, APMEX has been one of the nation's largest Precious Metals e-retailers. Boasting over $6.5 billion in transactions, APMEX was recently ranked the #1 Specialty E-Retailer and #46 out of 500 e-retailers by Internet Retailer Magazine. APMEX has the largest selection of bullion and numismatic items provided by a retailer, boasting more than 10,000 products. Product offerings include all U.S. Mint bullion such as Gold, Silver and Platinum American Eagle coins. APMEX also sells products from leading mints around the world including The Royal Mint, Perth Mint, Royal Canadian Mint and many others. APMEX is a member of the American Numismatic Association, the International Precious Metals Institute and the Industry Council for Tangible Assets. For additional information, visit www.APMEX.com or call (800) 375-9006. Photos accompanying this release are available at: http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=39184 http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=39185 aMante wrote: It was only after Katharine Graham became publisher of The Washington Post in 1963 that it moved into the first rank of American newspaper, and it was under her command that the paper won high praise for its unrelenting reporting of the Watergate scandal a)It was only after Katharine Graham became publisher of The Washington Post in 1963 that it moved into the first rank of American newspaper, and it was under her command that the paper won high praise b)It was only after Katharin Graham's becoming publisher of The Wasington Post in 1963 that it moved into the first rank of American newspaper, and under her commandt it had won high praise c)Katharine Graham became publisher of The Washington Post in 1963, and only after that did it move into the first rank of American newspapers, having won high praise under her command d)Moving intor the first rank of American newspaper only after Katharine Graham became its publisher in 1963, The Washington Post, winning high praise under her command e)Moving into the first rank of American newspaper only after Katharine Graham's becoming its publisher in 1953, The Washington Post won high praise under her command I can't come up with anything!!!!!!!! Plz Help!!!!!!!!!!!!!! General structure: Independent clause [,and] Independent clause Both clauses here are in a form that is used to create emphasis: "it... is/was..... that+subject+verb" Ex. It is the red dress that I want. (Emphatic structure for, "I want the red dress") So we have here, "It was only after Graham became..." ,and "it was under.... that the paper won." Notice that the time modifier for "became" is "in 1963," a specific time indicating the past simple (V2) "became". So the tenses and sentence structure are good here! The only problem here is the "had won"-- the past perfect (had+V3). There is no indication that the winning had taken place in the past relative to some other point in the past. The entire sentence should be in the past simple. We can stop reading as soon as we get to "and only after that..." "That" is a relative pronoun that is trying to refer to some thing. But there is nothing, no written noun, to which the word "that" refers, and it cannot refer to the entire preceding clause. All pronouns must refer to a written noun that appears in the sentence . Up until the first comma ("Moving into....1963,") is descriptive information. The "moving" is a present participle, an -ing word that is descriptive. After the subject, The Washington Post, there is another modifier starting with the present participle "winning". This second modifier (i.e. descriptive phrase) continues all the way to the end of the sentence, and we are never given a verb for the subject "The Washington Post!" On a grammatically technical level, there is no error here. BUT INTENDED MEANING MATTERS! It is critical to try to understand the meaning that was intended by the original, and the original wanted to emphasize Graham's accomplishments, and hence the emphatic structure explained in A. Sarai Yaseen Need help pulling it all together? email me at saraiyaseen@gmail.com or theverbalcorner@gmail.com ! Want a quick, comprehensive guide to the whole Verbal section? Check out my guide book : https://www.amazon.com/Sarais-GMAT-CAT-Verbal-Book-comprehensive-ebook/dp/B07MFMSZ6M/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=sarai+gmat+verbal&qid=1605248699&sr=8-1 Signature Read More Let's break this down so that it will be easier and faster...A)It was only after Katharine Graham became publisher of The Washington Post in 1963 that it moved into the first rank of American newspaper, and it was under her commandthat the paper won high praiseB)It was only after Katharin Graham's becoming publisher of The Wasington Post in 1963 that it moved into the first rank of American newspaper, and under her command it had won high praiseC)Katharine Graham became publisher of The Washington Post in 1963, and only after that did it move into the first rank of American newspapers, having won high praise under her commandD)Moving intor the first rank of American newspaper only after Katharine Graham became its publisher in 1963, The Washington Post, winning high praise under her commandE)Moving into the first rank of American newspaper only after Katharine Graham's becoming its publisher in 1953, The Washington Post won high praise under her command_________________ The Gorilla Radio archive can be found at: www.Gorilla-Radio.com. G-Radio is dedicated to social justice, the environment, community, and providing a forum for people and issues not covered in State and Corporate media. Gorilla Radio airs live Thursdays between 11-12 noon Pacific Time. Airing in Victoria at 101.9FM, and featured on the internet at: http://cfuv.ca and www.pacificfreepress.com. And check out Pacific Free Press on Twitter @Paciffreepress We rely on your support to make local news available to all Make your contribution now and help Gothamist thrive in 2022. Donate today A woman was hit on the head with a glass coffee pot during a violent early-morning fracas in a Chelsea diner on Sunday. Police say New Jersey resident Fatimah Ogunjobi assaulted the unidentified woman with the coffee pot around 5 a.m. in the Chelsea Square Restaurant. The woman was rushed to Bellevue Hospital with what a police spokesman described as "a serious injury to the head." Video taken by one customer shows the chaotic altercation: Ogunjobi, 26, was arrested and charged with felony assault and criminal possession of a weapon. The NYPD spokesman could not say if she had a weapon in her possession besides the coffee pot. It appears that pepper spray was also discharged by an officer trying to arrest Ogunjobi behind the counter, but the NYPD could not immediately confirm that. Brooklyn-based filmmaker Kyron Hodges was in the diner during the incident and uploaded the above video to YouTube. He says the woman seen throwing a plate in the beginning of the clip was upset about her purse being thrown on the floor in the bathroom. Out of frame, Hodges said, was a group of women who were calling Ogunjobi "all kinds of derogatory names." After the plate was thrown, Hodges says "all hell broke loose and the fighting continued even with a NYPD officer in the middle of it all. He initially tried to break it up with commands but it wasn't working out and he got hit by the girls as well. That's when he pulled out the pepper spray kept spraying all the girls until everybody got under control." Hodges says he did not see anyone get hit by a coffee pot, but "there was definitely a lot of plates being tossed around." Reached by phone, an employee at Chelsea Square Restaurant said no one currently working at the establishment had been present during the arrest. He declined to comment. Prohibition-era glamorization has everyone dubbing their establishment a speakeasy, whether it's simply through a discreet door or perched on a rooftop. Speakeasy is really just catch-all term that roughly translates to "pricy drinks" at this point. We haven't heard the term associated with restaurants as often, but dinnertable, a new East Village eatery opening on Wednesday, has declared itself a "reverse speakeasy," whereby a street-level bar conceals the entrance to a 20-seat restaurant hidden in the back. The new restaurant will be accessible through Garret East on Avenue A, an extension of a sister bar in the West Village that opened above a Five Guys about two years ago. The menu's rife with gourmet comfort food, like the Smoked Shortrib Tartare ($12) with horseradish and marble rye, "The Dumplings" ($15), a riff on pierogi made with potato and pecorino cheese, and a nod to their fast food space sharers across town with The Sixth Guy's Burger ($16) made Italian with capocollo, straccino cheese and deli peppers. And that incredible-looking baked pasta? That's the Lasagna Bolo, a two-person dish for $38. Drinks skew Italian in the back (Peronis, bottled negronis and Italian wines, apparently) while it's more about modern cocktail culture up front. The restaurant only operates Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30 p.m. until 11 p.m. and they won't accept either reservations or parties exceeding four people. 206 Avenue A; website Dinnertable Menu Australian backpackers looking for an Ikea mattress and shelter from the elements within walking distance of the L train have one less option for illegal accommodations as of this week, after a recent city bust at 210 Cook Street in East Williamsburg. Following up on a Department of Buildings complaint, inspectors from the city's Office of Special Enforcement last week found a second floor loft converted into eight furnished rooms with "no natural light and ventilation" and inadequate means of egress. Although the square footage of the loft was not immediately available, Zillow lists a rental on the third floor at about 950 square feet. The eight Airbnb rooms (the News described the units as "cubbyholes"), offered stays from $31 per night, according to the tabloid. Dim and unventilated, sure, but visitors also apparently got free wifi, two bathrooms to share, kitchen access, and plenty of murals and potted plants. The listing was deleted Friday. The city doubled the OSE's budget to $2.8 million last summer, more than doubling the department's staff and empowering it to investigate and bust illegal hotels, rather than simply react to complaints. The state's Multiple-Dwelling Law prohibits New Yorkers from renting out entire apartments for under 30 days if the tenant on the lease is not present. It is also illegal to divide your apartment into single-room units without DOB approval. Councilmembers and advocates have long argued that Airbnbwhich had 30,483 active units in NYC as of September 1stshould be transparent and proactive about New Yorkers who use the platform to operate illegal hotels. Unlike the cheery couples renting a spare room in Airbnb ads, these operators, they say, jeopardize the safety of longterm tenants, break state laws, and snatch up a significant portion of the city's already-dwindling affordable housing stock. Airbnb declined to confirm how many tourists were inside 210 Cook Street when the second floor loft was vacated by the city last Tuesday, but said that everyone impacted was reimbursed and relocated to another Airbnb listing for the duration of their stay in New York. "While these situations are incredibly rare, we take them very seriously, and are committed to continuing to identity and remove bad actors from our platform," said a spokesman for the startup on Monday morning. "We have no tolerance for illegal hotels and have removed these hosts from our platform." Airbnb made a highly-publicized data dump last December, in response to City Council accusations that the startup was protecting its bad actors. The data showed that 55% of Airbnb's users are breaking the law by renting out their entire apartments while they're away. The data also indicated that only 6% of Airbnb host revenue in New York between November 2014 and November 2015 came from hosts with more than three rentals to their nameanother good indicator of illegal hotel activity. For comparison, New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman issued a report in 2010 that found that 37% of Airbnb's revenue comes from such hosts. Earlier this month, Bed-Stuy-based coder and Airbnb watchdog Murray Cox issued a report accusing Airbnb of conducting a "one-time targeted purge" of 1,000 bad actors in the first three weeks of November, and presenting the post-purge data as "typical." In a response to the report given to the NY Times, Airbnb spokesman Nick Papas said that "Airbnb is an open people-to-people platform where listings come on and go off throughout the year." The landlord at 210 Clark, Castel Baljac Inc., has reportedly been fined $7,800 for building code violations including the illegal hotel, an obstructed passageway, and a propped-open fire exit. Legislation introduced last summer would increase fines for illegal hotel operators, which currently hover between $1,600 and $25,000, to a minimum of $10,000, and maximum of $50,000. Another piece of legislation up for review calls for a mandatory annual report on the total number of illegal hotel complaints filed, as well as violations issued, and penalties collected. Councilmember Mark Levine cautioned in September that without higher fines for illegal hotels, monetary punishment will be shrugged off as "the cost of doing business." The largest residential real estate developer in China has helped close a $116 million deal on 45 Rivington Street on the Lower East Sidea 118-year-old building on the corner of Forsyth Street that was built as a grammar school, served for decades as a nursing home for more than 200 AIDS patients, and will soon be transformed into about 100 luxury condominium units. China Vanke Co. closed the deal with Slate Property Group and Adam America Real Estate, according to the Wall Street Journal. And while parties involved in the sale wouldn't confirm the seller, Department of Buildings records identify the former owner as Allure Group, a for-profit nursing home provider. Indeed, records suggest that Allure Group played a significant role in the conversion of 45 Rivington Street into a for-profit luxury development. The Lo Down reports that Allure Group purchased the building from a nursing home operator called VillageCare in 2014, for $28 million. Allure Group reopened the facility briefly in 2015 as the Rivington Center for Nursing & Rehabilitation, but shut down last December, citing its failure to obtain state Medicaid reimbursements. The Department of Citywide Administrative Services told The Lo Down in December that DCAS had agreed to lift a deed restriction established in 1992 that required 45 Rivington Street to be "limited in perpetuity to a Not-for-Profit Residential Health Care Facility." DCAS spokeswoman Cathy Hansen confirmed that the deed was lifted last November, "after a request by the owner [Allure Group] to allow the property to be run by for-profit and/or non-profit operators." The office of local councilmember Margaret Chin confirmed that she is looking into the circumstances that led to the deed restriction being lifteda move that her office described in December as "disappointing," considering the lack of nursing homes in the neighborhood. Allure Group could not immediately be reached for comment, but executives from the company have reportedly told members of Community Board 3 that they plan to relocate the nursing facility within the neighborhood. Paul Leonard, a spokesman for Councilmember Chin, said on Monday that, "We are confident that the nursing home beds will be replaced within Community Board 3." Leonard would not confirm the source of this information, citing only members of the community, nor could he confirm if the beds would be set up at one site, or across multiple locations. He reiterated that Chin's office was not pleased with the deal, even with this guarantee. When 45 Rivington's closure was announced last December, a former patient spoke anonymously with EV Grieve, admitting that luxury developer interest in the property was not a surprise. "The building is incredible with 12-foot ceilings and a penthouse floor that has a view from the UN to all of Midtown and Downtown," the reader said. "I knew it was doomed to have developers all over it from the first day I got there." Another Allure Group nursing homethis one in Bed-Stuywas sold to a residential developer last fall. La tricolor, la de la estrella solitaria, la mas linda de todas. Distintos apelativos para hablar de la bandera nacional, la cual se oficializo en 1818. Pero, sabias que la bandera chilena actual no ha sido siempre la misma? Antes de nuestra bandera hubo dos mas. Conoce mas detalles sobre este tema. Durante la etapa de la Patria Vieja, por iniciativa de Jose Miguel Carrera, Chile tuvo su primera bandera, con tres franjas: azul, blanca y amarilla, que representaban la majestad, la ley y la fuerza, atributos del estado, segun el literato Camilo Henriquez o, segun otra teoria, el cielo, la nieve cordillerana y los campos de dorados trigales. Flameo por primera vez, el 4 de julio de 1812, bordada por Javiera Carrera, hermana de Jose Miguel, siendo ella quien inculco el ideal de la independencia, a sus hermanos menores. El 30 de septiembre fue al igual que la escarapela, oficialmente adoptada, aunque ningun decreto legalizo su uso. La vida de este simbolo se extinguio, luego I like to think of myself as a Renaissance Man, who champions the values of the Enlightenment and aspires to the Cardinal Virtues of Prudence, Temperance, Justice and Fortitude. I am also a student of the Misery of the Human Condition. "" [more] News Woman claims losing Dhs542000 due to relationship in Abu Dhabi The woman said she knew the appellee for a long time and trusted in him, so she lent him Dhs542,000, which he asked to pay off his financial obligations, as he claimed. Dominican Update | Main | Deadpool Movie Weekend Monday, February 29, 2016 Oscar Sunday and other ramblings Here is my quick update for yesterday and since we got back. Flew back to NY on Thursday. The 5 days in the Dominican truly flew by but then I guess isn't that the way it always goes when you are on vacation and are having fun? We really had a great time there and I am glad we got to check out a different island and culture. Not sure when Mike and I will get to take our next vacation together. I have a trip scheduled to Croatia/Austria to see my parents in June. But not sure when Mike and I will go somewhere together next. Work was busy Friday as we were trying to catch up. Worked Saturday till 2 and then mostly relaxed on Sunday. The weather actually turned out to be really nice and mild yesterday (50ies F, 10-12C) Didn't realize that early enough though so we didn't really get to do anything outside. Oh well. In the evening we watched the Oscars which is always fun. Thought Chris Rock did a good job as a host. Also glad Leonardo DiCaprio finally won his first oscar after being nominated 5 times. He definitely has grown a lot as an actor during his career and it's nice to see that that was recognized. Also very happy that "Spotlight" won best picture. Such a good and important film. Now it's Monday again and another week ahead. Probably another busy week at work. Mail Update: Letters went out last Friday to: Laura/Spain, Lotte/Denmark and Nina/WA. Posted by Hanna at 09:26 AM | Permalink Comments Post a comment Hands Across the Sea is a non-profit organization serving children and their families in Haiti. Founded and run by Karen Huxter, HATS includes an orphanage, a school serving children from preschool to grade 10, serving over 400 children, many of whom are sponsored by individual donors in Canada and the U.S. The children receive a high-quality nutritional drink and a hot lunch each school day. Finally, HATS-Haiti provides ongoing support to families in the community with financial aid in times of crisis, nutrional support, clothing distribution, and assistance with medical costs at the nearby hospital. This was passed along from Bob B. and also credit to Kevin Sorbo. For me When the State tells you its safe to go to Home Depot to buy a ... Because of the generosity of our community, The Salvation Army was able to make this Christmas season more joyful for 8,757 of our less fortunate neighbors. We appreciate each persons contribution, whether time, talent or resources. In particular, we salute: The men and women of area service clubs and civic organizations who served at our Christmas kettles and the organizations they represent. So many, that if we list, we would be afraid of leaving a wonderful organization off the list. The dedicated members of the Salvation Army Advisory Board, under the leadership of Greg Foltz, advisory board chairman. Volunteers who wrapped gifts, visited shut-ins, took applications, filled food boxes, collected toys and offered incredible support through all of our Christmas and Thanksgiving activities. The thousands of contributors who gave a total of more than $420,000 so that many who might otherwise have been forgotten experienced the joy of Christmas. The media who greatly assisted us to get our word out to the residents of Macon County. Fine companies like: Neuhoff Media, WAND-TV, Cromwell Media, Herald & Review, Decatur Tribune and WXFM/WDKR Radio. With your support, we will continue doing the most good for those in need throughout the year. God bless you! Maj. Wesley Dalberg The Salvation Army HARTFORD, Conn. The quiet whirring of the drone's propellers gives way to the sound of gunshots pop, pop, pop, pop in the 14-second video titled "Flying Gun." The YouTube video of a drone-mounted handgun firing rounds into the Connecticut woods, and a companion video of a flying flamethrower lighting up a spit-roasting Thanksgiving turkey, have reignited efforts by state legislators to make it a crime to weaponize an unmanned aerial vehicle. While the Federal Aviation Administration mulls regulations on drones, several states have established their own rules, though most of them focus on drone-mounted cameras as threats to privacy and security. Connecticut would be one of the first to restrict how drone owners can modify their craft into potentially dangerous weapons. "I am a huge Second Amendment supporter and it would make me very happy because I don't see any, any civilian purpose for a flying gun," said Clinton police Sgt. Jeremiah Dunn, whose department investigated the video. The "Flying Gun" video, posted last summer by Central Connecticut State University student Austin Haughwout, drew the attention of the FAA as well. No charges have been filed, but the FAA said last week it was still investigating. Dunn said his department was instructed by the local state's attorney's office that no Connecticut laws appear to have been violated in the first video and that the incident occurred on wooded private property, where a firearm could be legally discharged. Dunn said no local ordinances were violated, either. The teen's father contends a new state law is unnecessary, arguing that his son did nothing wrong. "This is a solution looking for a problem that doesn't exist," said Bret Haughwout. Since that first video, Austin Haughwout posted a second one on YouTube in November of a drone he outfitted with a flamethrower to "cook" a turkey on a spit in the woods. Bret Haughwout said his son, a sophomore studying mechanical engineering, hasn't hurt anyone with his drones and is just a hobbyist interested in how machines work. He said the drone that fired a handgun was "not at all an effective weapon" and "couldn't hit the broad side of a barn." Last year, Connecticut lawmakers considered a proposal on weaponized drones and other restrictions, but it died in the state House of Representatives due to inaction, weeks before Haughwout's first video went online. "Clearly, what happened in Connecticut renewed our interest," said Rep. Christie Carpino, R-Cromwell, co-chair of the General Assembly's Program Review and Investigations Committee. Her panel conducted a comprehensive study of the drone issue in 2014 and proposed wide-ranging legislation last year and "many members of the committee were disappointed it didn't make to the House floor last year," Carpino said. Public hearings are planned for today and Tuesday on two bills that would restrict the use of drones. One bill would make it a class C felony, punishable by one to 10 years in prison, to use a drone to release tear gas or other substances, or control a deadly weapon or explosive device. The other bill would create a similar crime plus impose limits on how law enforcement and state agencies can use drones. Last year, Nevada passed a comprehensive bill that prohibited the weaponization of unmanned aircraft systems. It also prevents people from using them from within a certain distance of airports and critical facilities without permission. Other states, such as Arkansas and Mississippi, have focused on preventing Peeping Toms from using the technology to spy on potential victims. New Hampshire prohibits drones from being used for hunting, fishing or trapping while Michigan passed laws barring people from using a drone to hunt game but also to harass hunters, according to the National Conference of State Legislatures. Rep. William Tong, D-Stamford, co-chairman of the Judiciary Committee, called Haughwout's videos scary. "I don't know what he's thinking about, but that's just reckless on its face," Tong said. "I get and I understand that kids do crazy things, but that also raises a question about how we ought to regulate these machines as they get ever more sophisticated, because they do have the potential to cause damage or infringe on the rights of others." New Braunfels, TX (78130) Today A clear sky. Low around 60F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph.. Tonight A clear sky. Low around 60F. Winds S at 10 to 20 mph. Here's the News. All the news worth reading. (To me anyway) Note that this is a news clippings blog. Articles (mainly from Straits Times) are NOT written by me. Due to spam comments, comments are now moderated. Please read "This Blog" and "Before you comment". "The HoseMaster is the funniest satirist writing about wine in the world today." --Karen MacNeil --Terry Theise HoseMaster HoseMaster HoseMaster --Robert Parker "...With sometimes crude analogies and occasional droppings of f-bombs, Washam cleverly uses satire to expose the underbelly of the wine business. It's often hilarious stuff as long as you're not the one being lampooned. Washam takes no prisoners in skewering all that is silly, stupid, frustrating and pretentious about wine, and his favorite targets are other bloggers and writers. No one is immune." -- Linda Murphy in "Vineyard and Winery Management" -- JancisRobinson.com " Hosemaster of Wine First: Im not sure if there is anyone better at cutting through the confidence trick that is often intrinsic to the business of wine. Second: in a world where offending people appears to border on the illegal, the Hosemaster piles in. No one is safe." --Joss Fowler "Vinolent.com" "As serious as the world of wine is, it does allow time for humor. Each Monday and Thursday, Ron Washam customarily posts a commentary on his needling wine blog HoseMaster of Wine . Washam, a former sommelier and comedy writer he might say they are closely related is the most opinionated, humorous and ribald observer in the wine world. His body of work is irreverent and remorseless. Its almost always satire and parody, though he occasionally drifts into straight commentary, sometimes even with tasting notes. This past year, one of his posts was named the best of the year in the Wine Blog Awards. His success has spawned several imitations, which in their awkwardness show just how difficult satire is." --Mike Dunne, Sacramento Bee Read more here: http://www.sacbee.com/2014/01/21/6089630/dunne-on-wine-wine-blogs-and-bloggers.html#storylink=cpy "Please let this guy write the scripts for Saturday Night Live which has gotten so lame...his newest "wisdom" is worth an Emmy....I wonder if he is the genius behind all those Hitler/Parker,etc. clips? No one else is remotely as funny or as talented.And the wine world sure needs someone to poke fun at all the nonsense and phoney/baloney unsufferable crap out there." --Robert Parker " Washam uses his own blog, HoseMaster of Wine , to skewer the industry in general and wine blogs in particular. If your mouse scoots to your browser's close box while reading a wine blog, Washam may be the blogger for you." -- San Francisco Chronicle "Ron Washam, former sommelier, is easily the most bitingly funny blogger/wine writer that we have ever come across. He is an equal opportunity crusader who pillories big wineries and amateur bloggers alike, as well as everything and everyone in between...One needs a sense of humor and a tolerance for earthiness to enjoy reading The Hosemaster . We must have both because this guy deserves a wider audience, in our humble opinion." --Connoisseurs' Guide to California Wine --Steve Heimoff "This site should carry a warning label. It's sort of a Dave Barry/George Carlin approach to wine. The Hosemaster (real name Ron Washam) skewers fellow bloggers and industry savants with glee, while offering hilarious wine guides such as his Honest Guide to Grapes... --Paul Gregutt, Seattle Times "Washam is a skilled wine judge (I have judged with him) who is willing to judge wine double blind, in public . To my knowledge, Parker does not do this and never has. So Ron's credentials are in place, and so is his sense of the absurd." --Dan Berger, VintageExperiences "...I consider Ron a talented writer and Ive long been an admirer of his scathing wit..." --1WineDude "And if any free sites think they can conquer the world, theres always the Hosemaster to take em down a notch." --Tyler Colman "Dr. Vino" --Jo Diaz "Juicy Tales by Jo Diaz" "I must say you are an idiot. I've never liked you. I have no idea why people find you funny." --Reign of Terroir --Will Lyons (WSJ) on Twitter --Levi Dalton on Twitter very Morning briefing: Paul Ryan: 'Our entire government' is on the line in November As Donald Trump barrels toward the GOP presidential nomination, Wisconsins top Republican officials are divided over whether to support him if he succeeds and represents the party in the general election. On Monday, U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson of Oshkosh declined to rule out a future break with his partys presidential front-runner, a shift from his past statements that he would back whoever the GOP nominates. Its depressing to see how this is devolving, Johnson said. Meanwhile, Gov. Scott Walker made clear that he would prefer Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida or Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas over the New York real estate mogul and reality TV celebrity. But the former presidential candidate steered clear of joining the emerging #nevertrump movement fanned by conservative activists on social media. I signed a pledge and Im a person of my word, Walker said. I wasnt going to run against someone else and I wasnt going to support someone other than the nominee. Walker last fall dropped his presidential bid and called on others in the huge field to do the same in an effort for an alternative to Trump to emerge. Two of the top three Republicans in the state Assembly Majority Leader Jim Steineke of Kaukauna and Joint Finance Committee co-chairman John Nygren of Marinette, both of whom support Rubio say they wont support Trump and would consider voting for a conservative third-party candidate in the general election if hes the nominee. This is a defining moment for our party and our country, Steineke said. He would forever ruin the Republican brand. In a meeting with the Racine Journal Times editorial board, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos of Rochester didnt rule out supporting Trump but questioned his conservative credentials. I know quite a few conservatives who have said, Im not going to vote for somebody who isnt a conservative. Because on certain things, Im not sure he is, Vos, a Rubio supporter, said of Trump. Nevertheless, he said, My assumption is I will support the Republican nominee, whoever it is. Sen. Alberta Darling, R-River Hills, co-chairwoman of the Joint Finance Committee, said shell support whoever the nominee is, including Trump, to avoid a situation like 1992, when Democrat Bill Clintons election benefited from the third-party candidacy of Texas billionaire Ross Perot. Darling hasnt endorsed a candidate, but is disappointed former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush is out of the race. People are questioning who Donald Trump really is and what he really stands for, Darling said, but she added supporting a third-party candidate would be a huge mistake. We know what happened with Perot. No Wisconsin lawmakers so far have endorsed Trump, though he leads the Republican field in the state with 30 percent support, according to the latest Marquette Law School Poll. Poll director Charles Franklin said he doesnt recall ever seeing a phenomenon where party leaders said they wouldnt support the frontrunner for their partys nomination. They are in a rather last-minute panic about this, Franklin said. Thats partly driven by the effect Trump could have on down-ballot contests in November, a concern Vos cited while discussing a Trump nomination. In a hypothetical head-to-head match-up with Democratic frontrunner Hillary Clinton, Trump loses by 11 points in Wisconsin, the Marquette poll found. In a Rubio-Clinton match-up its Clinton 44-43. Those 10 points matter, Franklin said. Johnson whos locked in a tough re-election battle in which he faces the prospect of sharing a GOP ticket with the controversial Trump told WTMJ radio hes praying for leaders who wont be divisive. Without naming Trump, Johnson said hes demoralized by the current state of the presidential race. Trump was asked Sunday about the support he has received from David Duke, a former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. Pressed three times in a CNN interview on whether he would distance himself from Duke or the Klan, Trump declined to do so. He later said he does disavow Duke and blamed the exchange on a faulty earpiece. Sen. Ben Sasse, R-Neb., became the first Senate Republican to publicly split with Trump late Sunday, posting to Facebook that he will not support Trump for president. Asked by radio host Charlie Sykes in Mondays interview if hell do the same, Johnson said: Lets see how the process plays out. I dont like demagoguery on any side of the political spectrum, and we have it across the political spectrum, Johnson said. The possibility of GOP U.S. senators publicly breaking en masse from Trump was floated publicly over the weekend in a widely circulated report by The New York Times. It reported Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., has laid out a plan behind closed doors for lawmakers to break explicitly with Trump in a general election, should he claim the Republican nomination. McConnell reportedly said of Trump: Well drop him like a hot rock and even assured Republican senators they could air ads attacking Trump in order to distance themselves, the Times reported. Conservatives in Wisconsin are also contemplating a full-on assault of Trumps thin conservative record and policy positions, according to Republican strategist Brian Fraley. If Wisconsin matters there will be a strong anti-Trump effort here because Wisconsin conservatives are more organized and more educated on the importance of free market economics and liberty, Fraley said, adding that the opposition might emerge even if Trump locks up the nomination before the April 5 primary. The possibility of Trump being the GOP nominee has grown in recent weeks as he racked up primary and caucus wins in the early presidential states of New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina. Tuesdays multiple contests, mostly in Southern states, are not expected to serve as a breaker for the Trump surge. Congressman Reid Ribble, R-Sherwood, one of the first GOP office-holders to publicly denounce Trump, has heightened his social media criticism of Trump in the wake of his most recent comments. For the record, condemning the KKK isnt something you should have to think twice about. #nevertrump Ribble posted to his Twitter account late Sunday. The other four Republicans in the Congressional caucus Speaker Paul Ryan, Sean Duffy, Glenn Grothman and Jim Sensenbrenner didnt respond to a request for comment Monday. Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald also didnt respond. Steineke, the Assembly majority leader who has been bashing Trump publicly on Twitter for weeks, said one reason more Republicans arent coming out against Trump is because they worry popular opposition to elected officials will cause their criticism of Trump to backfire. Franklin, the poll director, said another possibility is Republicans are worried about alienating a large swath of their own voters. Asked whether Trump represents the Republican Party he sought to represent last year, Walker said a number of his views and positions are different than mine. Even if we dont agree with every choice that certain candidates make or articulate, then the bottom line is you have to respect the voters and the process, Walker said. Donation: U.S. Cellular has donated more than $182,500 to local Wisconsin clubs, in particular Boys and Girls Clubs and 4-H Clubs. In addition, U.S. Cellular donated more than 1,800 Summerfest, Wisconsin State Fair and Milwaukee Brewers tickets to those clubs across the state. Student honors: Twenty middle school students from Sun Prairie have been selected to be in the Tri-State Honors Band. Students from Patrick Marsh Middle School include: Carter Helt, tuba; Emily Henderson, tenor sax; Anastasia Rockman, flute; Hannah Schultz, bassoon; Emily Tess, horn; Austin Wells, alto sax. Prairie View Middle School: Lalana Appasani, flute; Mara Bunderson, flute; Molly Buchheim, trumpet; Taylor Jensen, flute; Kate Kopotic, alto sax; Julia Knudten, trumpet; and Shruti Subramanian, flute. From Cardinal Heights Upper Middle School, selected students include: Destini Tetzlaff, flute; Jordan Hogg, clarinet; Brenna Johnsen, bass clarinet; Erica Lohr, tenor sax; Ann Tess, bari sax; Mickey Keating, trumpet; and Kira Brown, trumpet. Two bands of 105 members each will present a concert in Decorah, Iowa, on Saturday. In total, more than 30 schools from Minnesota, Wisconsin and Iowa will participate. [Editor's note: This story has been updated to remove a reference to the winner of the Miss Madison pageant. The item was placed by a person fraudulently posing as an affiliate of the pageant and should not have been approved without verification.] Cyprus PIO: Turkish Cypriot and Turkish Media Review, 16-02-29 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 No. 40/16 27-29.02.2016 [A] TURKISH CYPRIOT / TURKISH PRESS [01] Erdogan stated that he does not respect, neither obey the Constitution ruling on arrested journalists Gul and Dundar [02] Opposition parties reacted over Erdogan's remarks on top court ruling [03] Akinci: "The issue of missing persons is our common pain" [04] World Bank delegation visited illegal Tymbou airport [05] Kalyoncu is going to Ankara to sign the water agreement [06] Tufekci held a series of contacts in the occupied areas of Cyprus; Turkey and the occupation regime signed two different "agreements" [07] Durust met with Turkes in Turkey and discussed the further promotion of the occupation regime's university [08] Nisantasi University of Turkey will open a campus in occupied Morfou [09] Colak attended an event in London [10] Erdogan due to Africa to strengthen strategic partnership [11] Turkey's Diyanet Head supports the reopening of Halki Seminary [A] TURKISH CYPRIOT / TURKISH PRESS [01] Erdogan stated that he does not respect, neither obey the Constitution ruling on arrested journalists Gul and Dundar Turkish daily Hurriyet Daily news (28.02.16) reported that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has harshly criticized the recent Constitutional Court ruling that paved the way for the release of two journalists arrested on terror and espionage charges, saying he "does not accept or respect" the decision and vowing not to "obey" it. "I'm not in a position to agree with this decision. I'm saying this very clearly: I don't concur with the decision and I have no respect for it," Erdogan said on February 28 regarding the top court's ruling on Cumhuriyet editor-in-chief Can Dundar and Ankara bureau chief Erdem Gul. Dundar and Gul were released early on February 26 after 92 days in jail on terrorism and espionage charges, hours after the country's top court ruled that their pre-trial arrest violated their rights. Following the decision, the Istanbul 14th Court of Serious Crimes ordered their release but subjected them to an overseas travel ban. "The media cannot have limitless freedom ... These stories have included all kinds of attacks against this country's President," Erdogan told reporters at Istanbul's Ataturk Airport before leaving on a trip to Africa. "I need to repeat that this case is not linked to freedom of expression whatsoever. This is an espionage case," he added. (?) President Erdogan also stressed that the trial, which is scheduled to start on March 26, is not over yet. "This is not a decision of acquittal, this is a release order," he said. Erdogan filed an individual criminal complaint against Dundar and Cumhuriyet on June 2, 2015, claiming that their reports "included footage and information that is not factual". The plaintiff accused Dundar of "trying to manipulate justice" with fabricated material and "violating confidentiality" by publishing the story. The legal complaint came soon after Erdogan had said the journalists would pay a "heavy price." "This slander and illegitimate operation against the MIT are, in a way, an act of espionage. This newspaper [Cumhuriyet] is involved in this espionage activity too ? The person who wrote this as an exclusive report will pay a heavy price for this," he said during an interview with public broadcaster TRT late on May 31, 2015. [02] Opposition parties reacted over Erdogan's remarks on top court ruling Turkish daily Hurriyet Daily News (29.02.16) reports that Turkey's opposition parties have expressed their fury over remarks made by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who said he had "no respect" for a recent Constitutional Court decision on two arrested journalists. "Next week, an appeal against the local court's decision to release [the two journalists] will be discussed. The President says: 'The local court should insist on its decision.' This is a direct order for those who will next week discuss the appeal. The statement [by Erdogan] is beyond advice, it is an instruction. We define these remarks as the 'second Feb. 28 coup,'" Ozgur Ozel, the Deputy parliamentary group chair of the main opposition Republican People's Party (CHP), said at a press conference on February 28, referring to the "February 28 process" which eventually led to the notorious military intervention of Feb. 28, 1997, often described as a "post-modern coup." Moreover, Erkan Akcay, the Deputy parliamentary group chair of the Nationalist Movement Party (MHP), said: "These remarks [by Erdogan] are yet another blow on the Republic of Turkey, its institutions and its rules and they are encouraging anarchy and unlawfulness". Caglar Demirel, the Deputy parliamentary group chair of the Peoples' Democratic Party (HDP), said they didn't "recognize" Erdogan's remarks. "Today, the decision about Can Dundar and Erdem Gul is a joyful one. Describing this as a coup is a shame for Turkey," Demirel said. The Constitutional Court has long been targeted by the AKP over its rulings given to individual complaints. The court's public visibility has grown due to a series of high-profile rulings it has delivered, such as its April 2, 2014, lifting of the government-supported block on access to Twitter. [03] Akinci: "The issue of missing persons is our common pain" Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris newspaper (29.02.16) reports that the Turkish Cypriot leader Mustafa Akicni commented on the missing persons issue and noted: "This is our common pain". Akinci, who issued a written statement, stated that there is no doubt that the Committee on Missing Persons maintains its works with utmost sensitivity within the framework of their established rules. "As the Turkish Cypriot side, we will surely continue our positive attitude about all issues concerning the missing people, just like we did regarding the 30 possible burial sites in the military areas. It is certain that the information that came to the agenda lately regarding the 100 missing Greek Cypriots, who were allegedly buried in Assia and were later replaced, will be carefully evaluated. I have already spoken with the Turkish Cypriot member of the CMP regarding this matter", Akinci stated and added: "As the Leader of the Turkish Cypriots, and as a human being, I am committed to our previous call and I once again would like to emphasize that I would like all necessary action to be taken as rapidly as possible so that all missing persons, regardless of whether they are Greek or Turkish Cypriot, are found and the pain of their relatives is relieved at least to some extent", Akinci stated. (CS) [04] World Bank delegation visited illegal Tymbou airport Turkish daily Milliyet newspaper (29.02.16) reports that a delegation from the World Bank, which is working on the economic situation both in the occupied and the government-controlled area of the Republic of Cyprus, is examining the illegal airport in Tymbou. The delegation was briefed as to whether the "airport" will be able to offer international services after a possible solution is reached to the Cyprus problem. According to the paper, the World Bank officials studied the new airport project, the foundation of which has been laid by TT Airports. In statements to Milliyet, Serhat Ozcelik, general director of the TT Airport, said that they have started building an airport in the middle of the island having the latest technology. Referring to the new "airport", Ozcelik noted: "The field, which is serving 3.5 million passengers now, will be offering services to nine million passengers". He alleged that the illegal airport is now safer than the Larnaka International Airport. Gunay Cerkez, owner of Korman Constructions Ltd, which is the contactor of the project, told Milliyet that they are planning on completing the new illegal airport within one year. He said that the terminal building of the "airport", which is 20 thousand square meters, will be increased to 120 thousand square meters. (I/Ts.) [05] Kalyoncu is going to Ankara to sign the water agreement Turkish Cypriot daily Kibris newspaper (29.02.16) reports that the self-styled prime minister Omer Kalyoncu is going to Ankara on Wednesday, March 2 upon an invitation of the Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu. Kalyoncu will sign the agreement reached with Turkey on the water issue on behalf of the breakaway regime. (CS) [06] Tufekci held a series of contacts in the occupied areas of Cyprus; Turkey and the occupation regime signed two different "agreements" According to illegal Bayrak television (26.02.16), Turkish Minister of Customs and Trade Bulent Tufekci has arrived in the "TRNC" for an "official visit". Within the framework of his contacts, Tufekci first met with the so-called minister of finance Birikim Ozgur. Following the meeting, the two men signed a "memorandum of understanding" on the creation of a "joint customs committee" between the so-called finance ministry and the Turkish Ministry of Customs and Trade. Later, Tufekci met with the so-called minister for economy, industry and trade Trade Sunat Atun. After the meeting, the two "ministers" signed a protocol regarding the protection of consumers in the "TRNC". Speaking after the ceremony, Atun referred to the globalization and development and noted that the "TRNC" had to keep up pace with the world. Explaining that market management was finding direction through consumers and not through states, Atun said that with the signing of the "protocol", the consumers will be able to access purchases of goods and services easier and shy away from risky purchases. He added that they aimed to increase trade in the "TRNC" through the cooperation with Turkey. Tufekci for his part said that that Turkey would continue to contribute to the development of trade in the "TRNC" and gave the signing of the consumer protection protocol as an example of this. Tufekci met also with so-called prime minister Omer Kayloncu. Speaking during the meeting, Tufekci emphasized that Turkey is always by the side of the Turkish Cypriots and is taking every possible initiative on every platform to promote and make the "country" recognized. Touching upon the statements made by the Turkish Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu while on a visit to Athens, that "there may be two separate states and peoples but that it was only logical to make plans as though the countries were of a single geography and that both countries would benefit from this",Tufekci pointed to the importance of this statement and said: "The good dialogue to be created between Turkey-Greece, Turkey-EU and the Cyprus federal state to be formed, will be a source of stability in the region and will contribute to peace". He added that the latest messages given by the two leaders on the island regarding the Cyprus negotiations process has been very pleasing. Kalyoncu for his part said that he was very pleased with the stance adopted by Turkey regarding the Turkish Cypriots. Pointing to the fact that if a solution is reached in Cyprus, relations with Turkey will continue, Kalyoncu said that the foundation to be laid now will contribute to the formation of a strengthened foundation for future relations. Touching upon the Cyprus issue, Kalyoncu said that despite the Greek Cypriot side rejecting the 2004 Cyprus plan, the road to the EU was closed for the Turkish Cypriots and not vice versa. "Let's hope that we will reach an outcome at the end of this term", said Kalyoncu and expressed the belief that relations between Turkey and the "TRNC" will continue to prosper in the future. [07] Durust met with Turkes in Turkey and discussed the further promotion of the occupation regime's university According to illegal Bayrak television (27.02.16), the so-called minister for national education Kemal Durust, who carried out contacts in Turkey this week, met with the Turkish Minister in charge of Cyprus Affairs Deputy Prime Minister Tugrul Turkes. Evaluating his contacts to the BRT, Durust said that Turkes had informed him that he was very pleased with the agreement reached between the two "countries" on the water issue. He added that during the meeting, the projects that are yet to be completed were taken up and that additional funds were sought for in order for technological advancements to be made at schools. Explaining that he had requested from the Turkish Minister a meeting that would address all of the problems being experienced at the "universities" in the "TRNC", Durust said that in May, a meeting will take place in the occupied part of Lefkosia where all the "rectors" of the "universities" in the "TRNC" will discuss how higher education can further prosper in the country. Durust also said that a separate initiative had also been taken in order to promote in Turkey more efficiently the "universities" in the "TRNC". [08] Nisantasi University of Turkey will open a campus in occupied Morfou Turkish Cypriot daily Yeni Duzen newspaper (29.02.16) reports that self-styled minister of education Kemal Durust stated that the Nisantasi University, "which is one of the biggest and most respected universities of Turkey", as he stated, will open a campus in occupied Morfou. According to a statement issued by Durust's "office" the new illegal university will be established the latest in September and will offer education to 500 students. Durust also stated that the new university will contribute to the development of business and services in the area. He went on and added that initiatives will be launched so that local business and investors build dormitories and housing for the students. Durust also stated that returning Morfou to Greek Cypriots is out of question after all these investments and struggles that took place in the area. (CS) [09] Colak attended an event in London According to illegal Bayrak television (27.02.16) the so-called foreign minister Emine Colak went to London and took part in the sneak preview and reception given for the short film titled: "Weekend" that was directed by Turkish Cypriot national Talat Gokdemir. According to information given by the "TRNC's London representation office", the event was realized at the Yunus Emre Culture Center and Colak who was in London attended the event. Delivering a short speech during the event, the "TRNC's London representative" Oya Tuncal? said that there was a variety of successful Turkish Cypriots in the field of culture, arts and business in London and added that it was their duty to contribute and promote the achievements of Turkish Cypriots. "It is our aim to further strengthen the ties that Turkish Cypriots living in London have with the TRNC" said Tuncal? and added that successful Turkish Cypriots aid in the promotion of the "TRNC". [10] Erdogan due to Africa to strengthen strategic partnership Turkish daily Hurriyet Daily News (28.02.16) reported that Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan will visit four West African countries next week, in a new sign of Ankara's desire to be a major influence in the region. Erdogan was scheduled to begin his visit in Ivory Coast on February 28, before continuing to Ghana and then to economic powerhouse Nigeria. He will wrap up the trip in Guinea on March 3, his office said in a statement released over the weekend. The visit is aimed at deepening Turkey's "strategic partnership with Africa and developing relations with members of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS)," the statement said. It will be the first time a Turkish President has visited Ivory Coast and Guinea, it added. Erdogan, who in January last year visited Ethiopia, Djibouti and Somalia, is spearheading a drive to expand Turkey's presence in Africa. Turkey has more than tripled the number of embassies it has in Africa since 2009, while national flag carrier Turkish Airlines has dozens of destinations on the continent. Bilateral trade between Turkey and all of Africa was worth $23.4 billion in 2014, while bilateral trade with sub-Saharan countries has increased tenfold since 2000, according to the Foreign Ministry. Turkey is also moving to increase its presence outside its traditional sphere of influence in the lands of the Ottoman Empire, as Erdogan visited Chile, Ecuador and Peru this year. While announcing the tour at a press conference on Feb. 26, Presidential Spokesperson Ibrahim Kal?n said that Erdogan was also planning to visit Somalia "within this year" as part of an East Africa tour. "During this visit, we will have a chance to see the ongoing projects in education, healthcare, infrastructure, the airport and port projects on site. Moreover, as you know, we have built our biggest embassy in the world in Somalia. The construction is almost completed. During his visit, Mr. President will inaugurate this embassy," Kal?n said. [11] Turkey's Diyanet Head supports the reopening of Halki Seminary According to Turkish daily Hurriyet Daily News (28.02.16), the Head of the Directorate General of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) Mehmet Gormez, in statements during an interview with private broadcaster CNN Turk on February 28, said, inter alia, that no religious minority group in Turkey should have to look abroad to educate its religious clerics and expressed lukewarm support for the reopening of the Halki Seminary [Translator's note: Theological School of Halki]. "In principle, no religious minority group living on this land should need other countries to educate its own clerics," Gormez said when asked about whether he supported the reopening of the Halki Seminary, a historical Greek Orthodox school in Istanbul. Halki Seminary, a property of the Orthodox Church, was founded in 1844 on the island of Heybeliada in the Marmara Sea off Istanbul. It has been closed since 1971 as a result of that year's Private University Law. Gormez also commented on demands from minority religious representatives to receive a share of the Diyanet budget for their places of worship. "Even a religious minority formed of just three people should have the same rights as the majority in terms of freedom of religion and providing their own religious education. This is not a requirement of democracy or modern times, it is a requirement of Islam," he said. Gormez also addressed the question of the relationship between politics and religion, describing it as a "dilemma." "When religion is above politics, politicians start to define themselves against religion; but when politics is above religion, holy values are used as instruments," Gormez said. TURKISH AFFAIRS SECTION http://www.moi.gov.cy/pio (AK/AM) Cyprus Press and Information Office: Turkish Cypriot Press Review Directory - Previous Article - Next Article Chinese President Xi Jinping (R), who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, meets with Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) international department chief Hoang Binh Quan, the special envoy of Vietnam's communist party chief Nguyen Phu Trong, in Beijing, capital of China, Feb 29, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua] BEIJING -- Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Hoang Binh Quan, the special envoy of Vietnam's communist party chief Nguyen Phu Trong, on Monday, pledging to boost party-to-party relationship and bilateral ties. Quan conveyed a message from Nguyen Phu Trong to Xi. In his message, the general secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV) Central Committee said the two nations are close neighbors that share the same political system and have many common fundamental interests. Developing a stable, reciprocal and cooperative bilateral relationship is both a historical responsibility and a realistic requirement, and is in the fundamental and long-term interests of the two peoples as well. In his message, Nguyen Phu Trong said party-to-party ties had always played a leading role in bilateral ties and he called on the two sides to fully implement the consensus reached by their leaders, enhance high-level visits, cooperate more in economy, sub-national communication and people-to-people exchanges and keep peace and stability on the sea, so as to contribute to regional and world peace and prosperity. Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, said it is an important tradition for the chiefs of CPC and the CPV to send special envoys to communicate with each other. He noted that the two parties have carried on the tradition after the 12th National Congress of the CPV, which is of great significance for enhancing political mutual trust. Xi said China and Vietnam share a common destiny, so do the CPC and the CPV. Developing bilateral ties conforms to the fundamental interests of the two countries and their people. The president called on both sides to adhere to guidelines of long-term stability with ties underscored by comprehensive cooperation as well as the spirit of good neighbors, good friends, good comrades and good partners. China is willing to work with Vietnam to maintain the frequency of high-level visits, improve communication on party building, and promote pragmatic cooperation, he said. Xi also called for the proper handling of differences for the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership to develop in a sustained, healthy and steady way. Quan, who is also CPV international department chief, briefed Xi on the CPV 12th National Congress. Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English, 16-02-29 Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article From: The Athens News Agency at Weekend News Bulletin CONTENTS [01] The agreement we signed is our limit, says gov't vice president Dragasakis [02] We are not the ones that will dissolve EU, says Alt. Migration Minister Mouzalas [03] Pope Francis refers to refugees and sends message of support to Greece [04] Kavala has turned into an open hotspot, says city mayor Tsanaka [05] Large number of identified refugees ready to leave from Mytilene and Chios [06] Refugees block the railway tracks at Idomeni [07] FM gen. sec Paraskevopoulos to meet with Turkish FM under sec. Sinirlioglou on Monday [08] Theodorakis re-elected Potami party leader [09] Weather Forecast [10] Athens Headlines at a glance Monday February 29, 2016 Politics [01] The agreement we signed is our limit, says gov't vice president Dragasakis "We do not talk about additional cuts in pensions or additional measures. The agreement we have signed is our limit and we are following it" said government Vice President Yiannis Dragasakis in an interview with Realnews newspaper. "Therefore, whatever problem, whatever demand outside the agreement is not only our matter but a matter of Europe and its institutional bodies" he added. Dragasakis estimated that the refugees issue in not directly linked with the first review, adding however that "the sooner the evaluation is completed and positive prospects for the Greek economy and society are formed, the higher our possibility to contribute in solving the problem". Finally, on New Democracy's proposal over the establishment of an examining committee on the banks' recapitalisation, Dragasakis said that "the examining committee should not be presented as a threat but as an opportunity to investigate those that have happened in the banking sector. [02] We are not the ones that will dissolve EU, says Alt. Migration Minister Mouzalas Alternate Migration Minister Yiannis Mouzalas on Sunday referred to the refugees issue at a SYRIZA event held at Haidari city hall. "Greece has submitted to EU an emergency plan in which Greece requests 450 million euros for goods and hirings outside the memorandum for the needs of the temporary camps expected to be set up for the refugees that will be trapped in Greece. The government is taking all the necessary measures as if the borders have closed for good by activating the plan B" he underlined. "We lost 20 days of preparations due to the sudden closing of the borders. We have seen it coming, but the agreement the status quo in Idomeni (of this unofficial hole at the borders with FYROM), to remain existed until the next summit on March 7. The agreement was violated and five countries' police chiefs reversed it" adding that in fifteen days the condition will get better because those migrants not entitled to asylum will be sent back and the condition will return to normal. On NATO's presence in the Aegean Sea, Mouzalas estimated that the national sovereignty is not at risk. "The plan is Frontex to be under NATO's umbrella and to be able to send the boats back to Turkey. If a boat capsizes and the people are in danger, it is a matter of protection of the human rights. We will be there to monitor that these rights are not violated" he said. Mouzalas also stressed that the government uses all the legal weapons it has "we are using the diplomatic channels, we are following the law and the right. We lose and we win. We want EU and we defend it, we are not the one that will dissolve it". [03] Pope Francis refers to refugees and sends message of support to Greece ROME (ANA-MPA/Th. Andreadis)---Pope Francis on Sunday referred to the refugees' crisis and sent a message of solidarity and support to Greece. "In my prayer and in yours is always present the dramatic condition of the refugees that try to get away from the war and other inhuman situations. Particularly Greece, as well as other countries that are in the front line, offers to the refugees a generous assistance which needs cooperation from all the countries. A collective, united answer can be effective for the just allocation of the burdens. For this reason, and without reservations but with determination, negotiations must be set as target. [04] Kavala has turned into an open hotspot, says city mayor Tsanaka The number of refugees currently hosted at the northern Greek city of Kavala has reached 1,500. On Saturday, 900 refugees arrived at the port of Kavala from Mytilene with the ferry Nissos Mykonos. Kavala mayor Dimitra Tsanaka in statement to ANA-MPA sounded the bell and said that "the city has turned into an open hotspot without plan, programme and infrastructures and most of all nobody knows for how long these people will stay in the area". [05] Large number of identified refugees ready to leave from Mytilene and Chios Approximately 2,500 refugees and migrants are identified and ready to depart from Mytilene to Piraeus and Kavala. On the island of Chios are roughly 650 migrants and refugees at the same condition and are currently hosted at the hotspot of VIAL and at Souda camp. Two boats leased by the Shipping Ministry are at the ports of Chios and Mytilene have not been used. Meanwhile, the arrivals recorded on Saturday were low despite the good weather conditions. 900 migrants and refugees arrived on Lesvos and 300 persons arrived on Chios. [06] Refugees block the railway tracks at Idomeni Refugees blocked earlier on Sunday the railway tracks in Idomeni at Greece-Fyrom buffer zone. The refugees sat on the tracks demanding from Fyrom to open the crossing point. Fyrom's authorities closed the crossing point at 20:00 on Saturday after allowing to only 300 refugees from Iraq and Syria to get into the country. According to police, roughly 6,500 refugees are currently hosted at Idomeni camp waiting to cross the border. [07] FM gen. sec Paraskevopoulos to meet with Turkish FM under sec. Sinirlioglou on Monday Greek Foreign Ministry general secretary ambassador Dimitrios Paraskevopoulos will receive on Monday the under secretary of the Foreign Ministry of Turkey ambassador Feridun Sinirlioglou at the Foreign Ministry in Athens. The two officials will discuss bilateral and European issues as well as the developments in the region and worldwide. The meeting is held within the framework of the regular political deliberation meetings between Greece and Turkey. [08] Theodorakis re-elected Potami party leader Stavros Theodorakis on Sunday was re-elected by a large majority leader of Potami party after the completion of the voting procedure for the election of the party's new leadership. Theodorakis received 715 votes (88.16 percent) while the second candidate Pavlos Eleftheriadis received 96 votes. [09] Weather Forecast Partly cloudy and northerly winds are forecast for Monday. Wind velocity will reach 7 on the Beaufort scale. Clouds and rain in the northern and western parts of the country with temperatures ranging from 07C-22C. Partly cloudy in the eastern parts and temperatures between 07C-22C. Scattered clouds over the Aegean islands and Crete, 12C-22C. Mostly fair in Athens, 08C-20C. Partly cloudy in Thessaloniki, 08C-18C. [10] Athens Headlines at a glance AVGHI: Save Europe and the refugees. ELEFTHEROS TYPOS: Greece and ...Tsipras (Alexis, prime minister) under siege ETHNOS: The eight-day double battle. KATHIMERINI: Brussels' emergency plan. PROTO THEMA: Another 120,000 (refugees) ready to pass. REAL NEWS: Europe's foundations are shaking! RIZOSPASTIS: New fight to start for the pension system. TO PARON: Forget the ecumenical government. TO VIMA: From the opportunity to the failure. 36, TSOCHA ST. ATHENS 115 21 GREECE - TEL: 64.00.560-63 - FAX: 64.00.581-2 INTERNET ADDRESS: http://www.ana.gr - E-MAIL: anabul@ana gr - GENERAL DIRECTOR: Michalis Psilos Athens News Agency: Daily News Bulletin in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article Athens Macedonian News Agency: News in English, 16-02-29 Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article From: The Athens News Agency at CONTENTS [01] Euroworking Group to discuss Greek program review on Monday [02] Turmoil at Idomeni; refugees occupy the railway tracks [03] Migrants' arrivals on Greek islands increase on Monday [01] Euroworking Group to discuss Greek program review on Monday The Euroworking Group, that will meet on Monday with the participation of the heads of the institutions, will discuss the date of their return to Athens and the review of the economic programme. Greek government sources confirmed there is convergence between the Greek side and EU officials on the crucial issues of the negotiation such as the pension reforms and the fiscal gap while the IMF differentiates its stance regarding the measures to be taken until 2018 and the fiscal figures. Special emphasis will be placed on Germany's stance as for the first time Finance Minister Wolfgang Shaeuble acknowledged during the G20 meeting Greece's financial burden from the evaluation and the refugee issue. [02] Turmoil at Idomeni; refugees occupy the railway tracks Turmoil prevails currently at Idomeni (Greece-Fyrom buffer zone) where a number of refugees have blocked the railway track and are throwing stones against Fyrom's police officers. The refugees demand to pass in the neighbouring country in order to continue their trip. Earlier, the crossing point opened and Fyrom's authorities said that they will allow 50 persons to cross the border. [03] Migrants' arrivals on Greek islands increase on Monday Approximately 2,500 migrants and refugees have been identified and ready to depart from Lesvos to Piraeus or Kavala port. 1,450 refugees that arrived on Lesvos from Sunday until Monday morning have been identified at Morias hotspot while 500 persons are currently waiting to be identified. 1,250 persons arrived on Chios on Sunday. 270 of them are ready to depart from the island for Piraeus while approximately 300 migrants and refugees are waiting to be identified at the hotspot of VIAL. Police said that the migrants and refugees arrivals are increased on Monday. Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article I'm a Libertarian living in Humboldt County, CA. I've lived here in Eureka since 1973 and joined the Libertarian Party in 1992. This blog will mostly focus on local political issues, but I may stray into state and national issues as well, when I can't help myself. Please post your comments by clicking on the "comments" link at the bottom of each post. Although I do moderate comments, you need not be a registered user to post them. There's no denying that Shah Rukh Khan-starrer 'Fan' has already created a buzz with the first two teasers becoming a hit. But with the release of its trailer, it has created the magic all over again. Directed by Maneesh Sharma, the film has been shot in various locations in Mumbai, Croatia and Delhi. The film boasts of a unique story line revolving around a fan, who turns out to be the exact lookalike of his favorite star. All of us, every single man, woman, and child on the face of the Earth were born with the same unalienable rights; to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. And, if the governments of the world can't get that through their thick skulls, then, regime change will be necessary. About Me We are not the beautiful Capitalism is not beautiful, said John Maynard Keynes. It is not intelligent, it is not virtuous and it not just. But when we wonder what to put in its place, we are extremely perplexed. This blog is about the ideologies that mask the ugliness and injustice beneath the surface. And how our perplexity might be diminished. You can contact me at idealogically@gmail.com View my complete profile Recent Comments Blog Archive Americans of all stripes were somewhat shocked, as Christie had been beating up on the Trump candidacy way back since before beating up on Trump was cool. Governor Christie rightly attacked Trump for his immigration bluster, for his Manhattan elitist attitude, the way Trump got history wrong, again and again and again Christie attacked Trump for months. And now here he is endorsing the man. Why? Less than a week before Super Tuesday, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie endorsed the local boy, Mister New York Values himself, political novice Donald Trump. Many assume hes angling for a job in the administration, maybe even as running mate (although the idea of a NY/NJ ticket is so farfetched, its comical). Perhaps its an angle for some other job. People naturally assume he must therefore be angling for Attorney General which starts out sounding logical, but in fact is not. While Mr. Christies success as a governor would likely make him a fine choice to head the Office of Management and Budget, its difficult to imagine a more poorly-suited person for the modern Attorney Generals office. Exploring just why that is the case might be instructive not only for the immediate question, but also for the larger question of who we should select as president. Parkinsons Law At Work One of the most basic properties of gases is that a gas will immediately diffuse in any space to fill the container allotted to it. Give a gas a house, and it makes itself at home. Similarly, as C. Northcote Parkinson put it, "Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion." And that, by the way, is not only true in the private sector, to our everlasting chagrin. The Framers gave us a brilliant system, with a limited national government. Severely limited, extremely limited, incredibly limited. If a thing wasnt in the body of the Constitution, it couldnt be done. And in case that wasnt clear enough, the Founding Fathers gave us a Bill of Rights to say that, no matter how tempting it may be, the government can never expand in this direction, or that one, or that other... and then, in case anyone thought of expansions in still more directions, they provided the Tenth Amendment, which leaves absolutely no doubt: If its not here, its only to be done by the state legislatures, or by the people themselves. So the federal government, based in the then-new city of Washington, D.C., was meant to start small and stay small. But it was, nonetheless, a government. And it was located in a national capital. And, like any gas introduced into any container, it expanded to fill the space allotted. It took time, but a hundred years after the Constitution was written, the seeds for expansion were planted. A hundred fifty years after, and the expansion had occurred in all directions. And now, over two hundred years in, the United States government has grown in ways and amounts never imagined, so that we have departments on top of departments, with offices all over the country and abroad, and agencies so plentiful that every Cabinet Secretary is now the leader of his own government. The government has expanded to fill the nation, from border to border and coast to coast, and with that growth, the regulations have grown as well. The workload these agencies create has required whole industries for compliance, from accountants to attorneys, from trainers to clerks. Some of these regulations are good and useful; the vast majority are onerous and destructive. That growth almost 100% of it is in the executive branch. The Congress has grown, in terms of having more committees and more staffers and the judiciary has grown, in terms of having more circuits, more courts but the wild, massive, out-of-control growth has been in the executive branch. And the man or woman we elect as president will appoint the leaders of all these myriad agencies. The Department of Justice Since the Attorney Generals office is on our minds these days, lets use the DoJ as our focus of study. When established in 1789, the Attorney General was a part time position. Early AGs such as Edmund Randolph and William Bradford provided legal advice to the president and to Congress, and that was about it. Almost a century later, however, Congress established a formal Department of Justice, and shifted existing functions the US Attorneys, the Federal Judges, the prosecution of federal crimes over from the Department of the Interior and others into the new domain of the AG. Once thus begun, the growth continued. By the end of the 19th century, the AG was in charge of all federal prisons. In the 20th century, they added an independent federal law enforcement agency, and regulatory agencies governing products as diverse as alcohol and weapons and cigarettes. Nowadays, they may start out with a project, to explore what kind of crimes might affect some other federal department, and then they develop that project into a new bureau. When we think of the office of the AG, we think of him as the nations chief law enforcement officer. But what else is he? Todays Attorney General The modern Attorney General has a budget in excess of $27 billion, and manages over 115,000 employees scattered over a plethora of agencies, located all over the world. The ones we all know of are huge, and perhaps not unexpected: The Federal Bureau of Investigation, or FBI, has over 35 thousand employees, properties and offices all over the country, and an $8 billion annual budget. The Federal Bureau of Prisons spends about $7 billion a year, and employs 40,000. The Drug Enforcement Administration spends about $2 billion annually, and employs about 11,000. But thats not enough. The many expected agencies in the Attorney Generals office are only a hint at the bulk of this particular federal bureaucracy: The Defending Childhood Initiative, a program built around the occasional necessity of children to be witnesses in criminal cases. The Elder Justice Initiative similarly builds a federal agency around the specific circumstances of nursing homes, retirement, and similar issues focused on the elderly. The Bureau of Justice Statistics is a numbers agency, a collecting house for data from cities, counties, and states, which then produces reports that put all this data to use. The list of agencies never ends. Dozens of agencies, offices, and bureaus crop up at every turn; some wed expect, others were shocked to encounter. Theres a National Institute of Justice, an Office of Privacy and Civil Liberties, an Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency. Every way you can imagine for a federal law enforcement agency to involve itself in our lives. Who We Appoint The man or woman our president selects as Attorney General will appoint the directors of all these agencies, and more besides. The Attorney General leads the search process for the appointment of federal judges and Supreme Court Justices. Select a conservative, he or she might find us the next Anton Scalia, Clarence Thomas, or Samuel Alito. Select a liberal, and he or she might saddle us with another Ruth Bader Ginsburg, Sonia Sotomayor, or Elena Kagan. The Attorney General supervises the choices that the executive branch makes when federal lawsuits involve the federal government. Should the government fight, or acquiesce? Defend a law or regulation, or sit back and let the courts do as they choose? These are policy decisions, and they surface all the time, with repercussions that affect us all, right up to the Supreme Court level. The Office of Justice Programs provides a whole basket of bureaus, performing and funding research programs to spread the administrations criminal justice philosophies across the nation. Should we push community policing? Capital punishment? More or less probation? Second, third, and fourth chances before jail time? Its all politics, and the federal government can push the popular programs on cities and counties with the generous distribution of federal grant money. The Attorney General, through the COPS program, has taken over the management of numerous city police departments on the pretext of racial prejudice or other such charges. Ferguson, Minneapolis, Gary, Oakland and others have either already been taken over or are in the process thereof, meaning that the federal Attorney General now has direct (and unconstitutional) control over local tax dollars in various places across the country. And if they have their way, there will be many more such examples. As weve seen, the Attorney General is no longer just a prosecutor and legal advisor for the president. This desk is a ruler of a fiefdom, one of the most powerful positions in the federal bureaucracy. Far from the nonpartisan, apolitical lawyerly role we may imagine it, this position is today the focus of all our nations debates. Will the feds take the side of traditional morals or the side of the radicals, on issues like gay marriage and all gender bathrooms? Will the feds press for federal takeovers of state and local law enforcement, or will they stand back and respect the Framers vision of a clear boundary holding back federal government growth? Will the feds fight the states in their many valid lawsuits against Obamacare, or will the feds defend this unconstitutional monstrosity in court, again and again, bankrupting the states and crippling our economy? Oh yes, who our next President chooses for Attorney General makes all the difference in the world and our examination of this brief snapshot of an overgrown federal department is the poster child for how critical our choice in a President is. The President needs to understand all these issues, in order to know who to appoint for each of these jobs. Only a President who appreciates the intentions of the Founding Fathers only a President who understands the damage done by these overgrown, overreaching, and perpetually uncontrollable entities can have a hope of protecting the people from the jack boot of this ever more tyrannical federal government. Alone among the presidential candidates, Senator Ted Cruz, who clerked for Chief Justice Rehnquist, argued and won cases before the Supreme Court, and led an agency within the Federal Communications Commission, is clearly capable of understanding the weight of these appointments. There is literally no one else in this race who can be trusted to make informed choices to rein in the bureaucracy at the top. And thanks to a century of unbridled and unconstitutional government growth, there is so much, so very much, to rein in. Its high time we started, wouldnt you say? Copyright 2016 John F. Di Leo John F. Di Leo is a Chicago-based Customs broker and international trade compliance manager. A former county chairman of the Republican party, actor and writer, his columns regularly appear in Illinois Review. Permission is hereby granted to forward freely, provided it is uncut and the byline and IR URL are included. Follow John F. Di Leo on Facebook or LinkedIn, or on Twitter at @johnfdileo. WASHINGTON - Like Illinois, the state of New Jersey passed a law banning counselors from offering therapy to patients under 18 who have unwanted same sex attractions, even if they or their parents request it. "By refusing to hear the challenge, minors in New Jersey now have no freedom to seek counseling consistent with their sincerely held religious beliefs," Liberty Counsel said in a statement. "Moreover, by allowing the case to stand, there remains a conflict among the federal circuit courts of appeal on the First Amendment speech claims of the counselors and the clients." The case was originally set for conference before all nine Justices in January, but rather than deciding at that time whether to hear the case, the Court reset the matter for conference on February 19. When the Court reset the case for a second conference, Supreme Court watchers began speculating that the Court would decide to hear the case, and thus the case became closely watched by Supreme Court experts. In the meantime, Justice Scalia died unexpectedly. Since his public viewing occurred on February 19, the follow up conference was moved to last Friday. There is no indication one way or another whether Justice Scalia's absence on the Court contributed to the announcement today not to hear the case. Liberty Counsel challenged New Jersey's prohibition on change therapy on behalf of a minor, who was receiving such counseling, and his parents, who sought help for their son to live his life according to the dictates of his conscience and his religious beliefs and values. Prior to receiving this counseling, John Doe dealt with daily thoughts of suicide and depression. As a result of his counseling, however, John Doe was thriving and never dealt with anxiety, depression, or thoughts of suicide. Incisive and relevant analysis on SA politics and other social issues that make-up our social fabric. The answer key of TNPSC (Tamil Nadu State Public Service Commission) VAO (Village Administrative Officer) examination is expected to be released today. The candidates who have appeared for the exam, can check the same at the official website www.tnpsc.gov.in. The exam was held on February 28 for the recruitment of 813 Village Administrative Officer posts. Steps to check the answer key Log on to the official website www.tnpsc.gov.in Click on the link to check TNPSC VAO Answer Key 2016 Click on your exam code among all of the codes Match your answers with it Download the same and take a print out for future reference advertisement The TNPSC VAO exam conisted of total 300 marks and 200 multiple choice questions. The duration of the exam was of three hours. The paper was conducted in two languages, English and Tamil. About TNPSC The main objective of the commission is to advise the government on all matters relating to framing of recruitment rules, principles to be followed in making appointments and promotions and transfers from one service to another service, in respect of disciplinary matters affecting government servants, and to conduct examinations for selection of candidates under direct recruitment to the state, subordinate and ministerial services. Read: IBPS CWE SO 2016 result declared! Check your scores on the official website Read: UPSSSC JE Exam 2016: Check out the results For information on more upcoming exams and notifications, click here --- ENDS --- As travellers, we often look to visit exotic destinations that are far from the deadlines and traffic jams that we have to deal with on a regular basis. In times like these, a trip to an island destination can prove to be the perfect getaway. Be it the serene environment, or the pristine beaches, or a walk across the sea during sunset, spending time on an island is always rejuvenating. And if you are looking to travel to one anytime soon, try heading to one of these five amazing islands in India. advertisement Majuli Picture courtesy: Wikimedia/Kalai Sukanta/Creative Commons One of the largest river island in the world, Majuli is a nature lover's paradise. Located on the mighty Brahmaputra River in Assam, the island has numerous scenic locales, including the water meadows, paddy fields, rice fields and thick rainforests. The best way to go on a nature tour is to hire bicycles that are available on rent for the tourists. One can also enjoy birdwatching here, as the island is home to nearly 100 species of birds, including the migratory one. Also read: World's largest river island is in India! Munroe Islands Picture courtesy: Flickr/Pablo Necochea/Creative Commons Munroe Islands is one of the most offbeat destinations in Kerala. Located at the confluence of the Kallada River and the Ashtamundi Lake, this group of eight islands is surrounded by beautiful backwaters. Apart from boat rides on the backwaters, other tourist attractions of this place include: the art of coir weaving, fishing, birdwatching, and nature walks in the quaint village. Lakshadweep Picture courtesy: Wikimedia/Lemish Namath/Creative Commons Pristine white-sand beaches and unspoilt natural beauty make this group of 36 palm-laden islands one of the most romantic destinations in India. Often visited by the honeymooners, these islands are known for having beautiful coral reefs and an enchanting tropical landscape. There are various watersports on offer for the tourists, including scuba diving, kayaking, canoeing, and snorkelling, among others. Divar Island Picture courtesy: TripAdvisor/Andria D/Creative Commons Located on the Mandovi river, the Divar Island is one of the lesser-known destinations in Goa. The place attracts travellers who love the natural beauty of Goa, but at the same time prefer staying in places that are not crowded. You can spend hours enjoying some stunning views and visit the old monuments, including the Naroa Fort, Our Lady Of Compassion Church, and others that date back to the days of Portuguese settlement in Goa. Diu Picture courtesy: Flickr/Gerardo Diego Ontiveros/Creative Commons Although a known destination, Diu is still considered one of the most untouched island destinations in India. This is because, much of its natural beauty has remained intact over the years. While there are serene beaches on one hand, there are architectural marvels tracing back to the time of Portuguese colonisation. Diu Fort, Gangeshwar Temple, Seashell Museum and St Paul's Church are among the top attractions. Also not to miss is the tropical sea-food with a dash of Gujarati influence. --- ENDS --- advertisement From the mountains to the pastures, these train journeys will take you through some of the most scenic locales in the world. One of the most beautiful ways to explore nature's untouched beauty is to look outside the window of a moving train. After all, most train journeys in the world take passengers through routes that are picturesque and far from the maddening crowd. We have picked five of the most beautiful train journeys in the world that you must take at least once in your lifetime. advertisement Also read: 5 most picturesque train journeys in India Glacier Express, Switzerland Picture courtesy: Flickr/Kabelleger/Creative Commons Route: Zermatt to St Moritz This train journey can leave you spellbound. Right from the majestic Swiss Alps to the green valleys dotted with cows and chalets, the Glacier Express offers everything that Switzerland is known for. Chugging through 91 tunnels and 291 bridges, this seven-hour journey is no less than a visual treat. The Flam Railway, Norway Picture courtesy: Flickr/beyondmagazine/Creative Commons Picture courtesy: Flickr/beyondmagazine/Creative Commons Route: Flam to Myrdal A ride on The Flam Railway takes travellers on one of the steepest train journeys in the world. Lasting for not more than an hour, the train travels from the ocean level of Flam to the mountaintop station of Myrdal, gaining an altitude of close to 3,000 feet. Quite naturally, the train chugs through stunning landscapes that include towering mountains, breathtaking waterfalls and verdant valleys. Also, the train travels through 20 tunnels on the way. In the year 2014, Lonely Planet had named it the best train journey in the world. Rocky Mountaineer, Canada Picture courtesy: Flickr/Riderick Elme/Creative Commons Route: Banff to Vancouver You simply can't ignore the Rocky Mountaineer when you are talking about the most picturesque train journeys in the world. Starting its journey from the resort town of Banff in Alberta, the train travels through some of the most beautiful landscapes to reach the cosmopolitan city of Vancouver. Covering the distance in two days, the train chugs through the majestic Canadian Rockies, and offers stunning views of the snow-capped peaks, breathtaking pastures and gushing waterfalls. The train is also famous among travellers for the delectable meals and unmatched hospitality on offer. Napa Valley Wine Train, USA Picture courtesy: www.winetrain.com Route: Napa to St Helena This train journey has been designed to offer a special treat to travellers. Covering a distance of just 40 km, an antique train takes travellers on a journey through the heart of Napa Valley, chugging past some of the oldest sun-kissed vineyards of the region. Apart from having two engines, three kitchens, and a collection of early 20th century Pullman rail cars, the vintage train offers a fine dining experience with multiple course meals on offer. Hiram Bingham Orient-Express, Peru Picture courtesy: TripAdvisor/Mike D Route: Cusco to Machu Picchu advertisement This train ride offers a fine combination of heritage and nature. With a full-day round trip, the train connects two of the most sought after destinations in Peru -- on one hand is the colonial city of Cusco, and one the other is the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Machu Pichhu, an ancient Inca site. The train travels through a winding route that offers some of the most scenic views of the Urubamba River Valley. While a brunch is served on the way to Machu Pichhu, a four-course dinner is served on the return journey. --- ENDS --- Presenting the 2016-17 Budget in the Lok Sabha on Monday, Jaitley also said that an enabling regulatory architecture will be provided to 10 public and 10 private institutions to emerge as world-class teaching institutions. Even as a fierce row rages over allegedly seditious speeches in the prestigious Jawaharlal Nehru University, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has announced the setting up of a higher education financing agency, with a fund of Rs 1,000 crore. Presenting the 2016-17 Budget in the Lok Sabha on Monday, Jaitley also said that an enabling regulatory architecture will be provided to 10 public and 10 private institutions to emerge as world-class teaching institutions. advertisement In his Budget speech, Jaitley said that the governement aims to skill one crore youth in the next three years under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana. Recently, a number of politicians and journalists had questioned the state support to higher education institutions like the JNU, which they alleged was a hotbed of "anti-national" and "secessionist" elements. A number of educationists and opposition leaders had slammed the idea, reminding the state of its "duty" to support and encourage centres of educational excellence. In a related development, the government also plans to open 62 more Navodaya Vidyalayas and start a digital literacy scheme for rural India. Also Read Government allocates Rs 9,000 crore for Swachh Bharat Abhiyan Highlights og Budget 2016 Union Budget 2016: Arun Jaitley's 9 pillars to transform India Budget 2016: Government to launch scheme for digital literacy in rural areas Budget 2016: Why agriculture topped Arun Jaitley's 9-point plan to change IndiaBudget 2016: Govt to develop 160 non-functional airports --- ENDS --- Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today lauded the power ministry for making the rural electrification project a success and set a deadline of May 1, 2018 for "100 per cent village electrification". During his Budget speech in Lok Sabha, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today lauded the power ministry for making the rural electrification project a success and set a deadline of May 1, 2018 for "100 per cent village electrification". The pat on the back of Power Minister Piyush Goyal came at a time when PM Narendra Modi had asked his ministry to target the electrification of around 200 villages every week by holding regular follow ups with the state implementing agencies. advertisement "The Prime Minister has said that Ministry of Power must strive to complete electrification of 200 villages every week by following up with state implementing agencies regularly," a source said adding, that progress with regard to electrification of villages should be properly highlighted. "For electrification of the balance villages, the power ministry must follow up with state implementing agencies to ensure timely sanctions, procurement, installations and commissioning activities," the source said. Earlier, the ministry had decided to electrify 18,452 villages within 1,000 days. Goyal had said that the Centre has fixed a target of electrifying 7,000 villages by March-end. ALSO READ | Union Budget 2016: Arun Jaitley's 9 pillars to transform India --- ENDS --- The first FIR in the case was registered on Sunday. A woman from Narela in Delhi, while appearing before the Special Investigation Team (SIT), claimed that she was raped by seven people, including two of her relatives, on the intervening night of February 22-23. Jat protesters have been on a rampage in Haryana demanding reservation under Other Backward Class category. First-hand accounts of the alleged gangrapes during the Jat agitation at Murthal seem to be trickling out. The first FIR in the case was registered on Sunday. A woman from Narela in Delhi, while appearing before the Special Investigation Team (SIT), claimed that she was raped by seven people, including two of her relatives, on the intervening night of February 22-23. advertisement "This could be the first breakthrough for us with the first victim appearing before us and lodging written complaints against seven persons. We have registered an FIR under relevant Sections of the IPC. We are investigating the matter," DIG and head of the SIT Raj Shree Singh said. The woman, as per her claims, was travelling from Hardwar to Narela on February 22 when a bunch of goons stopped her vehicle. "I started from Hardwar to Narela with my minor daughter in a bus. Later, the bus developed a technical snag following which I took a Maruti van to reach my native place in Jathedi, Narela. The van was stopped near Sukhdev dhaba and the miscreants overpowered male passengers. They held my daughter and me hostage in an isolated place, where they gang-raped me," the woman said in her complaint. The alleged victim has identified two of the culprits as her brothers-in-law. The accused have also identified the woman as their sister-in-law. Interestingly, the SIT has admitted that the case could be of a family dispute but said as the incident took place at the same venue as the alleged Murthal gangrapes, a thorough investigation was needed to verify the claims of the woman. The alleged sexual assaults at Murthal took place on the intervening night of February 22-23 when around 30 miscreants had allegedly stopped vehicles on NH-1 and set them on fire. They also brutally assaulted male passengers. The accused then allegedly forced all male passengers to leave the place while they allegedly held at least 10 women hostage. After the male passengers left, the accused allegedly tore the women's clothes and gang raped them. Four women of the 10 managed to escape and take shelter behind an eatery, Marik Sukhdev Dhaba, while others were left abandoned naked in open land before being rescued by their relatives, who are residents of neighbouring Hasanpur and Kurad villages. On Saturday, a truck driver from Punjab also approached the Haryana Police claiming to be an eyewitness of the rapes. Meanwhile, the police have recovered women's clothes, including undergarments, from the spot and have sent them to Madhuban for forensic tests. Haryana has been on the boil ever since the Jat agitation took a violent turn. advertisement The Jat have been demanding reservation and have destroyed both public and private property worth crores of rupees since the beginning of the agitation. ALSO READ: Three-member SIT to probe Murthal rape case Murthal gangrapes: Women were dragged to fields and raped, confirm truck drivers --- ENDS --- Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's convoy was today attacked on Ludhiana-Ferozepur road in Punjab. Kejriwal's car windscreen shattered after being hit by a stone. He was sitting on the front seat of the car. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's convoy was today attacked on Ludhiana-Ferozepur road in Punjab. Kejriwal's car windscreen shattered after being hit by a stone. He was sitting on the front seat of the car. After the attack, Kejriwal tweeted, "My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals and Congress nervous? They can't break my spirits." My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals n congress nervous? They can't break my spirits&; Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 29, 2016 advertisement Kejriwal was in Ludhiana on the last day of his five-day tour of Punjab during which he visited various cities including Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Sangrur and Bathinda to reach out to people ahead of 2017 Assembly polls. He was scheduled to visit Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib and Patiala before returning to Delhi today. The AAP lashed out at the ruling Akali Dal in Punjab over the attack. "In a well orchestrated attack the goons sent by Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones & rods as police stood by. "The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was by only God's grace that he escaped unhurt," party leader Ashish Khetan tweeted. The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was by only God's grace that he escaped unhurt.&; Ashish Khetan (@AashishKhetan) February 29, 2016 In a well orchestrated attack the goons sent by Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones & rods as police stood by pic.twitter.com/5fjyumO1JD&; Ashish Khetan (@AashishKhetan) February 29, 2016 The AAP put out a photograph showing the shattered front glass pane. The Delhi Police on Friday had said that it has alerted Punjab over a life threat to Kejriwal, who is currently visiting Punjab. The AAP plans to contest elections to the 117-member Punjab assembly. Kejriwal has claimed the AAP is poised to sweep Punjab amid speculation that some leaders of the Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party may shift to the AAP. --- ENDS --- The Delhi government has finally got takers for the top post at its hospitals. Mail today had reported on December 5, 2015 how senior doctors in Delhi are not interested in taking up the post of medical superintendent at government hospitals as they were reluctant to work with the AAP government. The Delhi health department is set for a major reshuffle, with new medical superintendents for various government hospitals. The Delhi government has finally got takers for the top post at its hospitals. Mail today had reported on December 5, 2015 how senior doctors in Delhi are not interested in taking up the post of medical superintendent at government hospitals as they were reluctant to work with the AAP government. advertisement Now, application forms have been filled, interviews conducted and the government all set to come out with the list by the end of this week. If things go according to plan, young minds will soon run government hospitals in the city. The AAP government has always been vocal about having young doctors on board. The government had also changed the basic criteria for applying for the post of medical superintendent. Delhi Health Minister Satyender Jain had recently said the government is making efforts to appoint younger medical superintendents at its hospitals. "Efforts will be made to appoint younger medical superintendents at government hospitals. For instance, post graduates with 10+ years of experience or undergraduates with 15 years of experience," Jain said, during a convention by Federation of Resident Doctors' Association at Maulana Azad Medical College. Sources said around 36 hospitals will have new heads; some might even have two heads. Various hospitals like Deen Dayal Upadhyaya hospital, Dr Hedgewar Aarogya Sansthan, Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital might get new faces. Aruna Asaf Ali hospital have been given additional charge of Sushruta Trauma centre. The trauma centre was earlier with Lok Nayak hospital. "Interviews were concluded on Saturday. After receiving a final approval from the minister, the list will be displayed," a senior Delhi government official told Mail today. In July last year, the government reshuffled the heads of some government hospitals. The medical superintendents of Aruna Asaf Ali Hospital, Babu Jagjivan Ram Memorial Hospital, Shri Dada Dev Matri Avum Shishu Chikitsalaya , Satyawadi Raja Harish Chandra Hospital, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital and Lok Nayak Hospital were transferred from their respective posts. In 2014 also the AAP government had transferred medical superintendents of Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospial, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Babu Jagjivan Ram Memorial Hospital, Aruna Asaf Ali Hospital, Bhagwan Mahavir Hospital, Madan Mohan Malviya Hospital, Rao Tula Ram Memorial Hospital and Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital. The Delhi government in October had come out with a circular inviting applications for the post of medical superintendent, which, according to sources did not get many applicants initially. advertisement The Delhi government then came out with a second order on December 2, extending the date for submitting application for the post of medical superintendent to December 31. Earlier, the deadline was October 31. A medical superintendent is the senior most officer responsible for the functioning of any government hospital. Most administrative-level decisions are taken by the hospital's medical superintendent. Also, the health department has put out proposals which include making senior resident doctors who have completed three years of residency eligible for the position of Assistant Professors wherever vacancies exist. Experienced doctors will not be burdened with non-clinical work to increase their efficiency. The work of interns and junior doctors will be eased by reducing the work of sampling, filing and running around. --- ENDS --- Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama yesterday announced his decision to endorse the Republican presidential front runner, Donald Trump, from New York. The endorsement first by a sitting American Senator comes as big boost to Trump's chances ahead of the crucial Republican presidential primaries on Tuesday in 11 States including Alabama. Senator Jeff Sessions of Alabama yesterday announced his decision to endorse the Republican presidential front runner, Donald Trump, from New York. Session, who had earlier this week held a hearing on H-1B visas, said "Trump understands that a nation must always place the interests of its own people first." The endorsement first by a sitting American Senator comes as big boost to Trump's chances ahead of the crucial Republican presidential primaries on Tuesday in 11 States including Alabama. advertisement Endorsement from Session came after sitting Governor Chris Christies of New Jersey chose to endorse Trump earlier this week. "Americans of all backgrounds and ethnicities, immigrant and US-born, are crying out for leadership that puts their needs first, that takes care of those living and dreaming here today, leadership that understands that there is no constituency other than the American constituency. Trump is that leader," Sessions said. Trump addressed a massive rally in Alabama during the day. "I am deeply honoured to have the endorsement of Senator Jeff Sessions, leader of congressional conservatives," an elated Trump said. "He has been called the Senate's indispensable man and the gold standard. He led the fight against the Gang of Eight, against Obama's trade deal, against Obama's judges, and for American sovereignty," Trump said. "He has stood up to special interests as few have. There is no more respected man in Congress and we are closely aligned on many issues, including trade and illegal immigration," said the Republican presidential front runner. ALSO READ: US Presidential polls: Donald Trump, Bernie Sanders win New Hampshire primaries Clinton rules in South Carolina, all set for big night on Tuesday --- ENDS --- A plane full of passengers clapped as a terminal cancer patient's family was deboarded, after his 7-year-old son had a severe allergic reaction to a dog on board. What happened on a Mesa-bound flight in the US last Monday that made the plane full of passengers break into a loud applause? People travelling in Allegiant flight 171, which was flying from Washington's Bellingham to Mesa in Phoenix, celebrated by clapping the removal of a family from the plane. The family consisted of a mother, a father suffering from terminal cancer and their 7-year-old boy. advertisement The passengers of Allegiant flight 171 applauded deplaning of this family, who were returning from a bucket-list vacation to visit a terminally-sick Jorge's family in the US Northwest. Why? That's because Jorge's 7-year-old son, Giovanni, suffered a severe allergy attack from being near a dog brought on the plane. Giovanni's mother, Christina Alvarado, told a local broadcaster that the boy "broke out in hives and began scratching soon after the family boarded the flight". When called for help, Alvarado said the flight attendant "smirked" and said dogs are on every flight. Alvarado also made a Facebook post to talk about the incident, and it soon went viral. "Shame on you for being so cruel," Alvarado wrote, describing how most among the 151 passengers on board the Airbus 319 applauded as the family was taken off the plane. Allegiant Air, the subsidiary of Allegiant Travel Company, said in a statement that the family was asked to leave the plane and rescheduled to another flight over boy's health concerns. The company apologized for the inconvenience and booked Alvarado's family on a new flight that landed at Phoenix-Mesa Gateway Airport late on Wednesday. Alvarado wrote in her post that she and her family are "not angry" for being deplaned, it was the effect the incident had on her son that was saddening. "What crushed us was that our 7 yr old boy looked at us with tear filled eyes and said, 'I'm sorry that I put you through this. This is all my fault' (sic)" "He was making memories with his father. Memories that you have now become part of. He will never forget that you clapped as he deboarded that plane." She added the incident ruined 'what could be one of their last family trips', and also forced them to reschedule her husband's cancer treatments. The boy's father, George, who has terminal throat cancer, was forced to reschedule his treatment plans because of the flight changes. Here's Alvarado post from Facebook: "This evening, I witnessed disgusting behavior from the passengers of Allegiant flight 171 Bellingham to Phoenix/Mesa. My 7 yr old son had an allergic reaction to the dogs on the flight. We are not sure why he had this type of reaction but we assume that it has something to do with the immense amount of stress that he has been under lately. He has been forced to helplessly witness terminal cancer ravish through his father's body. advertisement We are not angry that we were deplaned. In fact, my husband and I appreciate that our son is safe. What crushed us was that our 7 yr old boy looked at us with tear filled eyes and said, "I'm sorry that I put you through this. This is all my fault" then he proceeded to say, "I can't believe that people clapped. They shouldn't do that because they never know who already has sadness in their hearts". He was making memories with his father. Memories that you have now become part of. He will never forget that you clapped as he de-boarded that plane. Thank you for your insulting, ignorant, insinuating comments that minimized my son's experience, and make a horrible memory at the end of my husbands life. Shame on you for being so cruel. What would you have done if he had stayed silent and died in that flight? To the old lady flight attendant w short curly brown hair, you should have NEVER hastily smirked and made the comment that dogs are on every flight! Your comments are untruthful and unwarranted. We frequently fly and we have been on several flights with no animals and he has never had this type of reaction on any of the other flights that we have been on. Instead of diffusing the situation you added insult to injury and perpetuated the attitudes of the other passengers. Thankfully, the rest of the Allegiant staff were great. We have been forced to spend hundreds of dollars on unexpected expenses and have to try to figure out how to reschedule this weeks chemo treatments. advertisement Disappointment is an understatement!" This evening, I witnessed disgusting behavior from the passengers of Allegiant flight 171 Bellingham to Phoenix/Mesa. ...Posted by Christina Alvarado on Monday, February 22, 2016 --- ENDS --- Union Budget 2016: Arun Jaitley's 9 pillars to transform India Unveiling the Union Budget 2016-2017, the Finance Minister said the pillars are tax reforms, ensuring fiscal discipline, infrastructure investment, promoting ease of doing business, agriculture, rural sector, social sector, education and job creation. Donald Trump blames India again for taking US jobs Donald Trump, the controversial Republican presidential frontrunner, today again blamed India for taking away jobs from Americans, pledging to bring them back if elected president even as the 'Trump mania' appeared to have picked up in the US ahead of "Super Tuesday" showdown. Leonardo DiCaprio just won his first Oscar. Did you notice his middle finger though? advertisement Oscars 2016 were memorable for not many reasons. One incident, however, that topped all else during the 88th Annual Academy Awards' night is the fact that Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Oscar. DiCaprio won the award for Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's much-appreciated drama The Revenant. However, what left many with wide-open mouths is Leonardo's middle finger during his Oscar acceptance speech. Asia Cup: Injury concerns haunt India, Parthiv likely to play vs Sri Lanka India are in the risk of missing out on the services of regular openers Rohit Sharma and Shikhar Dhawan in Tuesday's Asia Cup clash against Sri Lanka on Tuesday. While Dhawan missed the Pakistan clash due to a niggle in his left ankle, Rohit had a precautionary X-Ray after Mohammad Amir's ball landed on his toe during Saturday's match. --- ENDS --- The Supreme Court has asked the petitioner to take consent of Attorney General before the apex court hears any plea seeking criminal contempt proceeding against JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar, SAR Geelani, Umar Khalid and 4 others on the ground that they allegedly termed the execution of Afzal Guru as judicial killing. The Supreme Court for now has declined to hear plea seeking criminal contempt proceeding against jailed JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar, former DU lecturer SAR Geelani, Umar Khalid and 4 others on the ground that they allegedly termed the execution of Afzal Guru as judicial killing. The apex court has asked the petitioner to take consent of Attorney General before hearing. advertisement The Delhi high court is also likely to resume today the hearing on bail plea of Kanhaiya Kumar, arrested in a sedition case for allegedly raising anti-India slogans in the university campus. Justice Pratibha Rani, who had on February 24 deferred the hearing till February 29 after Delhi Police informed the bench that it will seek his further custodial interrogation, will resume the hearing on Monday. The hearing assumes significance as the police is likely to apprise the bench about the ongoing investigation during which it had taken Kanhaiya to one day custody to confront him with other JNU students and arrested two other accused students Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya. Umar and Anirban had surrendered before police late on February 23 night and their police custody ends today. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Kanhaiya, had earlier contended that as per the status report filed by Delhi Police there was no evidence of any anti-India slogans being raised by his client. Kanhaiya, who was arrested on February 12, was in police custody till February 17 and was later remanded in judicial custody till March 2 amid violence at the court premises during the remand proceedings. Also read: JNU row: Delhi Police questions another student in sedition case Police custody of JNU students Umar Khalid, Anirban Bhattacharya extended by two days JNU row: Is it seditious to criticise Supreme Court's verdict?Agencies not keen on Kanhaiya's court appearance --- ENDS --- The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) had formed a committee to formulate a policy detailing the modalities of transgender admissions. The transgender category has been kept under the 'deprivation points' category. It is now mandatory for all the colleges and universities to include the third gender category as an option in their admission forms. The Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) is all set to award five points to the students applying under the transgender category. The varsity had formed a committee to formulate a policy detailing the modalities of transgender admissions. The panel has come up with its recommendations which will be placed before the Academic Council for its approval. Though, the session's prospectus of the university says four points to be granted to students who have completed Class 10th, 12th, BA/BSc/ MA/ MSC from their districts, and two points to those belonging to the district that are not backward. advertisement The category has been kept under the 'deprivation points' category. "We are waiting for the final decision from the academic council," a senior university official said. The university had introduced the transgender option in the gender column of its admission forms too. JNU's admission policy already has a provision for five "deprivation points" for females, Kashmiri migrants and applicants from the Defence category. As per the policy, all Kashmiri migrants are eligible for grant of five deprivation points. "We had proposed that five extra points be awarded to the students seeking admission under the category. If the proposal is passed, they will also be under the deprivation pointers category," a committee member said. Also, the university is planning to reduce the points for girl students. "This will be the first academic session to face the changes. The points for the girl students have been there since 1995," the official added. Students belonging to backward district might also get five points extra while appearing for the admission. After the Supreme Court judgment that declared transgender to be the third gender in 2014, the University Grants Commission (UGC) made it mandatory for all the colleges and universities to include third gender category as an option on the admission forms. Going a step ahead, JNU had also introduced the option in the nomination forms for its students' union elections. Meanwhile, the university administration is considering a suggestion to have symbols and wall of fame of India's military heroes, particularly those who were ex-JNUites. Suggested by ex-servicemen, soon there might be symbols of defence tanks, and memorials of jawans in the university campus. According to the varsity officials, group of exservicemen had visited the university and suggested this idea. Ex-servicemen have been quite vocal about the 'anti-national' tag on the university, and even threatened to return their JNU degrees. A letter was sent to the vice-chancellor of the university by the defence veterans. The exservicemen of 54th NDA course had written to the Vice Chancellor saying they "find it difficult" to be associated with an institution that has become a "hub of anti-national activities". --- ENDS --- The Home Ministry is all set to examine files relating to the controversial Ishrat Jahan case after former Home Secretary GK Pillai said ex-Home Minister P Chidambaram had changed an affidavit, which originally described Ishrat and her slain aides as LeT operatives. By Press Trust of India: The Home Ministry is all set to examine files relating to the controversial Ishrat Jahan case after former Home Secretary GK Pillai said ex-Home Minister P Chidambaram had changed an affidavit, which originally described Ishrat and her slain aides as LeT operatives. "We are trying to locate files relating to Ishrat Jahan case. We are yet to get all files as some of these are yet to be traced," a senior Home Ministry official said. advertisement The official said re-look of the Ishrat Jahan files was necessitated following the statement of the former Home Secretary. "We are looking at the files keeping in view that new facts have come to light," he said. Pillai on Sunday claimed that as Home Minister during UPA government, Congress leader Chidambaram had recalled the file a month after the original affidavit, which described Ishrat and her slain aides as LeT operatives, was filed in Supreme Court. "Only after the affidavit was revised, as directed by the minister, did the file come to me," Pillai is quoted as saying by a media report. The then UPA government had submitted two affidavits - one that the four, who were killed in an alleged fake encounter, were terrorists and the second saying there was no conclusive evidence - within two months in 2009. Also Read: Headley stirs up political storm by identifying Ishrat Jahan as LeT operative MHA rejects CBI plea in Ishrat Jahan probe --- ENDS --- The 88th Academy Awards ceremony was a mix of expected and unexpected wins. Kate Winslet, who bagged the best supporting actress awards (for Steve Jobs) at Golden Globes and BAFTA, lost the Academy Award to Alicia Vikander (The Danish Girl). Sylvester Stallone, who reprised his iconic character Rocky Balboa in Creed, lost the Oscar to Mark Rylance (Bridge Of Spies). The 88th Academy Awards was a star-studded affair with the presence of all eminent stars from Hollywood. This year's Oscars was memorable as Leonardo DiCaprio finally won the best actor award for The Revenant after being snubbed four times in the past. But what came as a surprise for viewers was when Spotlight nabbed the best picture award at the Oscars this year. It came as a shock to many fans and film pundits who had predicted that either The Revenant or Mad Max Fury Road would take the best picture trophy. advertisement And this wasn't all. The Oscars night was full of big surprises. Kate Winslet, who has been on an award-winning spree this year, just like her Titanic co-star Leonardo DiCaprio, lost the best supporting trophy to Alicia Vikander (The Danish Girl). Kate was nominated for the best supporting actress for her role in Steve Jobs. She essayed the role of Joanna Hoffman in the biographical drama based on the life of Apple co-founder Steve Jobs. Earlier, Winslet had won the Golden Globe and the BAFTA Award for the same. If we consider Vikander's performance in The Danish Girl, it was a close fight between Winslet and her, as she had won the Critics' Choice and SAG awards. The other surprise of the Oscars eve was when Mark Rylance picked the best supporting actor trophy instead of Sylvester Stallone who was seen in his Rocky Balboa role in Creed. Stallone had won the Golden Globe for his character in the film. Many fans had been wishing for his big Oscar win. But what did not come as a surprise was Mad Max Fury Road winning six Oscars this year. The film received 10 nominations, mainly in the technical categories this year. The film was nominated in two major categories - best motion picture and best director. But Mad Max Fury Road could only win the major technical awards at the 88th Academy Awards. Yet, at the end of the day, Oscars 2016 will be remembered for only one thing - Leonardo finally got his due! ALSO SEE: OSCARS 2016 FULL COVERAGE ALSO SEE: OSCARS 2016 - AS IT HAPPENED --- ENDS --- Son of Saul was named the best foreign language film at the 88th Academy Awards. The Holocaust drama from Hungary has been in the news ever since it was screened at the Cannes. This is Hungary's second Oscar in the category. Son of Saul was named the best foreign language film at the 88th Academy Awards. The Holocaust drama from Hungary has been in the news ever since it was screened at the Cannes. This is Hungary's second Oscar in the category. ALSO READ: Asif Kapadia's Amy wins best documentary feature The film tells the story of a Jewish man forced to work at a Nazi death camp who seeks a proper religious burial for a boy who he believes is his son. advertisement Director Laszlo Nemes used long tracking shots to follow the film's protagonist as he navigates the horrors of the death camp. ALSO SEE: OSCARS 2016 FULL COVERAGE --- ENDS --- Emmanuel "Chivo" Lubezki has won the Academy Award for cinematography for the third year in a row. The Mexican filmmaker won for his work on The Revenant, his second win for work with director Alejandro G Inarritu. His use of long shots and reliance only on natural light helped the film garner 13 nominations. Leonardo DiCaprio in a still from The Revenant Emmanuel "Chivo" Lubezki has won the Academy Award for cinematography for the third year in a row. The Mexican filmmaker won for his work on The Revenant, his second win for work with director Alejandro G Inarritu. His use of long shots and reliance only on natural light helped the film garner 13 nominations. Lubezki won last year for Inarritu's film Birdman and won in 2014 for Gravity. He has been nominated eight times in the category. advertisement Lubezki says it is an incredible honor and thanked Inarritu and actors Leonardo DiCaprio and Tom Hardy, who appeared in the film. --- ENDS --- Pakistan executed Mumtaz Qadri for killing the governor of Punjab province, Salman Taseer, over his call to reform the country's strict blasphemy laws that carry a death sentence for insulting Islam. Malik Mumtaz Hussain Qadri, who was arrested for shooting dead the Governor of Punjab province Salman Taseer, is seen here detained in a police vehicle at the scene of the crime in Islamabad on January 4, 2011. (Photo: Reuters) Pakistan on Monday executed Mumtaz Qadri, the man who killed the governor of Punjab province over his call to reform the country's strict blasphemy laws that carry a death sentence for insulting Islam, police said. Protests broke out within hours by supporters of the killer, who consider him a hero who defended the faith, broadcaster Geo TV reported. Qadri, a bodyguard of Salman Taseer, governor of Punjab province, shot him dead in the capital, Islamabad, in 2011. advertisement "Qadri was hanged at around 4:30 am," senior police officer Rizwan Omar Gondal told Reuters by telephone. The execution took place at the Adiala jail in the city of Rawalpindi outside Islamabad. Taseer had championed the cause of a Christian woman sentenced to death in a blasphemy case that arose out of a personal dispute. Taseer had said the law was being misused and should be reformed. Supporters of a religious political party shout slogans during a demonstration against the sentence of convicted killer Mumtaz Qadri in Karachi March 9, 2015. (Photo: Reuters) Late in 2011, an anti-terrorism court handed down a double death sentence to Qadri for murder and terrorism. The sentence was appealed and upheld by the Supreme Court late last year. More than 100 people are charged with blasphemy each year in predominantly Muslim Pakistan, many of them Christians and other minorities. Conviction of blasphemy carries a death sentence, although no one has yet been hanged for the charge. Controversy over the law has exposed the growing gap between religious conservatives and liberals in Pakistan, with hard-line religious leaders considering Taseer a blasphemer himself for even criticising the law. Some lawyers showered Qadri with rose petals when he first arrived in court days after the killing. The judge who first convicted him was forced to flee the country after death threats. --- ENDS --- Congress party worker Shankar Munavalli lodged a complaint with the 3rd JMFC Court in Belagavi city in northwestern Karnataka. Former CM of Karnataka, H D Kumaraswamy, who had accused Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of wearing a stolen expensive Hublot wrist watch, was dragged to the court through a private complaint. Congress party worker Shankar Munavalli lodged a complaint with the 3rd JMFC Court in Belagavi city in northwestern Karnataka. The case has been posted to March 2 for hearing. Munavalli has alleged that Kumaraswamy was unnecessarily dragging Siddaramaiah into a controversy by making false claims. advertisement Meanwhile, Siddaramaiah's aide and Karnataka's Social Welfare Minister H Anjaneya claimed that the watch controversy will not affect Siddaramaiah. "For all those under the impression that Siddaramaiah will step down from the CM's chair, there is disappointment waiting. This issue is not even worth discussing," he added. Also read: Siddaramaiah wearing a stolen watch: Kumaraswamy Kumaraswamy to disclose his son's luxury possessions A 'luxury' twist to Siddaramaiah-Kumaraswamy tussle --- ENDS --- Happy February 29, you guys! Now that we have one extra day to us, let us tell you what people around the world have made of it over the years. What visits us once in four years--even if it's a day--is bound to be surrounded by mystery. Now, while some of that mystery is thanks to illogical practices our ancestors probably indulged in, others are just the result of grapevine. Technically, though, you'd have to be one lucky bugger to be born on this day. We say lucky because the chances of being born on a leap day are 1 in 1,461. BTW, people born on February 29 are called 'leaplings' or 'leapers'. And the worldwide population of 'leapers' is roughly 50,00,000. advertisement So, here's recounting some facts and retelling some myths about our four-yearly visitor: MYTHS 1) Being born on February 29 is extremely unlucky While this myth is prevalent in India too, the Scottish believed that if you're born on the Leap Day, your life will have an everlasting stream of suffering. Well, the only bad luck we can think of right now is not having one's birthdays recognised by computer systems! 2) On a leap day, a man can't refuse a woman's plea to get married Yup, that's right! Women, get ready to pop the question, NOW! According to an old Irish legend, St Brigid struck a deal with St Patrick to allow women to propose to men--and not just the other way around--every four years. This was probably their way of "maintaining balance". In Scotland, there was even a time when the unmarried Queen Margaret ordered to impose a fine for men who would deny a woman her dream marriage. How we wish that fine could stand true today! 3) You shouldn't get married/divorced during a leap year In Greece, couples choose not to get married during a leap year, which makes this year really tragic for those working around it. There's also a superstition that divorced couples who are separated during a leap year will never find happiness again. Now, that's heavy! 4) Astrologers believe people born on February 29 have unusual talents No no, not magic powers and the likes. Just talents like the ability to burp the alphabet or paint like Picasso (no biggie!). FACTS 1) Anthony, Texas is the self-proclaimed 'Leap Year Capital of the World'. It holds a festival that includes a guided trip to Aztec Cave, "fun at the horse farm" and square dancing. 2) Matthew Goode, the British film star who acted in the film Leap Year, said he knew the movie would be remembered as the "worst film of 2011" but wanted to be "close to home and able to visit his girlfriend and newborn daughter." 3) February 29 also marks Rare Disease Day. advertisement 4) Hugh Hefner opened his first Playboy Club on February 29, 1960. 5) The French call leapfrog "saute-mouton", which translates literally as "leap sheep". 6) The frog is a symbol associated with February 29. The Australian rocket frog can leap over two metres. Croak! Picture courtesy: Twitter/@AFrogsTail --- ENDS --- The Karnataka police are searching for a man, who allegedly raped a speech and hearing impaired girl near Kunigal town, 70 kms from Bengaluru, on Sunday. According to the police, Arun Kumar, a businessman, allegedly raped the 28-year-old girl when was alone at home in Huliyurdurga near Kunigal on Sunday morning. The girl had not reported the incident to even the neighbours, as she had lost her parents recently, and was in the care of her relatives. advertisement However, the girl eventually mustered courage and revealed the name of the rapist. Since then, Arun Kumar is absconding from the town. The police have registered a case and launched an extensive hunt to nab him. --- ENDS --- The Supreme Court today sought the response of the Centre on a petition filed by a Muslim woman challenging the triple talaq provision in the Muslim personal law for grant of divorce. A Bench of Justices Anil R. Dave and AK Goel issued notice after hearing senior counsel Amit Singh and counsel Balaji Srinivasan questioning the legality of the provision. The Supreme Court today sought the response of the Centre on a petition filed by a Muslim woman challenging the triple talaq provision in the Muslim personal law for grant of divorce. A Bench of Justices Anil R. Dave and AK Goel issued notice after hearing senior counsel Amit Singh and counsel Balaji Srinivasan questioning the legality of the provision. The petitioner Shayara Banu is a female Muslim citizen whose husband has illegally divorce her after frequently subjecting her to cruelty during the currency of their marriage. The Petitioner wishes to secure a life of dignity, unmarred by discrimination on the basis of gender or religion. advertisement She therefore seeks a writ or order or direction declaring the practices of talaq-e-bidat (instantaneous triple-talaq), nikah halala (bar against remarriage with divorced husband without an intervening marriage with another man), and polygamy under Muslim personal laws as illegal, unconstitutional, and violative of Articles 14, 15, 21 and 25 of the Constitution. She said this Court has already taken the view that gender discrimination against Muslim women needs to be examined and has, inter alia, observed that laws dealing with marriage and succession are not a part of religion, the law has to change with time, and international covenants and treaties could be referred to examine validity and reasonableness of a provision. The practices under challenge, which practically treat women like chattel belonging to men, are neither harmonious with the modern principles of human rights and gender equality (as enshrined in the Constitution as well as various international treaties and covenants), nor an integral part of Islamic faith. Various noted scholars have also expressed the view that talaq-e-bidat has no foundation in the Holy Quran. In fact, many Islamic nations, including Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Iraq, have banned or restricted such practices, while they continue to vex not only Indian Muslim women like the Petitioner but also the society at large, notwithstanding that the Muslim community of India has itself been clamouring for reform and ban of oppressive practices that have no basis in Islam or the Holy Quran. The Petitioner has been divorced by her husband as her family was unable to meet the demands for additional dowry. The divorce was by way of triple-talaq (talaq-e-bidat) which was confirmed by a divorce, she said and prayed for quashing the provision. --- ENDS --- The central government on Monday announced allocation of Rs 2.19 lakh crore for road and rail sector in the Union Budget for the next fiscal. In a major push on infrastructure, the central government on Monday announced allocation of Rs 2.19 lakh crore for road and rail sector in the Union Budget for the next fiscal. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley even announced to develop 160 non-functional airports across the country at a cost of Rs 50-100 crore each. The Finance Minister announced allocation of Rs 97,000 crore for the roads sector. This amount includes the Rs.19,000 crore he has allocated for rural roads under the Pradhanmantri Gram Sadak Yojna. advertisement Describing the legacy of problems in the roads sector that his government had inherited, Jaitley said around 70,000 road projects had got stalled, locking investment of up to Rs.1 lakh crore. The Finance Minister said that 85 per cent of stalled road projects are now back on track. "I am happy to announce that our efforts have put back on track 85 percent of these stalled road projects," Jaitley told parliament. "In civil aviation, 160 non-functional airports to be developed at a cost of Rs 50-100 crore each and 10 of 25 defunct airstrips to be developed in partnership with state government," Jaitley announced in the Lok Sabha. Jaitley even spoke about the target of 10,000 kms of national highway and upgradation of 50,000 kms of state highways in the next fiscal. He added that a series of measures have been started for modernising ports. He said that initiatives are being introduced to reinvigorate infrastructure sector through Public-Private Partnership (PPP). ALSO READ | Budget 2016: Why agriculture topped Arun Jaitley's 9-point plan to change India Budget 2016: Government to launch scheme for digital literacy in rural areas --- ENDS --- The government has already approved two schemes to promote digital literacy - national digital literacy mission and digital saksharta abhiyan. Government plans to launch a mission to provide digital literacy to around six crore additional rural households. "We now plan to launch the digital literacy mission scheme for rural India to cover around 6 crore additional households in the next three years, details of the scheme will be spelt out separately," Finance minister Arun Jaitley said while announcing Union Budget 2016-17. advertisement The government has already approved two schemes to promote digital literacy - national digital literacy mission and digital saksharta abhiyan. "We need to spread digital literacy in rural areas. Of the 16.8 crore rural households, as many as 12 crore households do not have computers and are unlikely to have digitally literate people," Jaitley said. Digital literacy can be defined as the knowledge to handle digital devices like computers, tablet PCs and smartphones, and Internet usage. --- ENDS --- A Burkha clad woman was seen outside a metro station in Moscow, walking around with a severed head of a child. The Oktyabrskoye Pole metro station was shut suspecting terror activities. Moscow's Oktyabrskoye Pole metro station has been shut after a Burkha clad woman took out a 4-year-old girl's severed head from her bag. The woman has been identified as 39-year-old native of Uzbekistan named Gyulchekhra Bobokulova. Graphic video below. Viewer's discretion advised Russia's Interior Ministry has confirmed in a statement that the woman had been carrying severed head of a child, thought to be a 4-year-old girl, whom she had been babysitting. advertisement Police had found a child's dead body at the scene of a fire in an apartment block near to the Oktyabrskoye Polye metro station earlier today, reports The Telegraph. Russia Today reports she shouted "Allahu Akbar" and "I'm a terrorist" over and over. The woman waited until the parents left the apartment, killed the girl and removed her head, said the investigators. She then set the apartment on fire hoping she would destroy evidence. When police approached and asked for documents, the woman took out the severed head out of her bag and threatened to detonate explosives. The Police haven't found any explosives on her, though. The woman is also suspected to be under the influence of drugs. Muscovite Alyona Kuratova, an eyewitness who saw Bobokulova with the child's head told Russia's TV Rain, "I saw that a woman was walking near the Oktyabrskoye Polye metro, near the road, all in black. She had not even some kind of bundle, but a head. Maybe it was a child's head, like they were whispering in the crowd. She was shouting something." The Russian Police have not classified the incident as terrorism yet, but a probe is on. --- ENDS --- The company plans to give 25 lakh handsets in the first phase before June 30. Ringing Bells, the makers of the controversial "Freedom 251" smartphone, has reportedly claimed to have paid back the money it generated from the first 30,000 pre-booking orders on the first day of the sale this month. Mohit Goel, managing director of the Noida-based company, has claimed that the money of all 30,000 customers has been refunded and the company will now accept cash on delivery only, according to news channel ABP News. advertisement Also read: Call centre accuses Ringing Bells of forgery Ringing Bells had received 30,000 orders on the first day and the rest of the customers will be selected on first-come-first-serve basis as the company received a mammoth over seven crore registrations. Earlier on Friday, Ringing Bells president Ashok Chadha had announced that the Rs.251 (less than $4) "Freedom 251" smartphone customers will be required to make payment only when the smartphone is delivered to them. "The company has decided that we will, henceforth, offer 'cash on delivery' mode of payments for those who have placed an order for the 'Freedom 251' smartphone. This will ensure further transparency and clear any misgivings," Chadha said in a statement. The company plans to give 25 lakh handsets in the first phase before June 30. Also read: Ringing Bells adds to confusion, says will sell 25 lakh phones offline Ringing Bells has been facing an FIR and defamation suit amid serious questions being raised over the world's cheapest smartphone. The Noida-based startup claims to have tied up with the payment gateway provider PayUbiz so that it receives payment only on the submission of proof of delivery (POD) to the payment gateway. Also read: Freedom 251 biggest scam of the millennium, BJP involved: Congress MP "Our humble beginning to provide a high-tech gadget that will benefit all in the hinterlands and bridge the huge gap that clearly exists between the metros and semi-urban/rural areas is in keeping with the government's initiatives," Chadha said. However, Noida-based data centre and BPO Cyfuture, said on Friday they were set to file an FIR against Ringing Bells and deliberating on filing a defamation suit too. According to Anuj Bairathi, Cyfuture founder and CEO, they met Vishwajeet Srivastava, Gautam Budh Nagar Superintendent of Police (crime branch), who looked into the matter and assured them of a suitable course of action. "After deciding to file an FIR for fraud and non-payment of dues, we are now thinking to file a defamation suit against Ringing Bells as their allegation of non-performance has tarnished our image," Bairathi told IANS. advertisement Taking the world by surprise, Ringing Bells launched "Freedom 251" smartphone that, it said, has been developed "with immense support" from the government. As the makers of the smartphone went gaga over being part of Prime Minister Narendra Modi's "Make in India" and "Digital India" initiatives in the last few days, a top government official clarified on Thursday that the government has nothing to do with the "Freedom 251" smartphone. "This is not a government project. 'Make in India' team has nothing to do with this," wrote Amitabh Kant, secretary of the department of industrial policy and promotion (DIPP), in a Twitter post. You may also like: Company decides to sell Freedom 251 through COD, but what about those who paid? Freedom 251: How and why Ringing Bells can price it at Rs.251 --- ENDS --- According to Google, India contributed to about 2 per cent of the global searches for the Oscars this year. Global search engine giant Google on Monday announced that India ranked among the top 10 markets 'gripped' by Oscars fever this year with as much as 70 per cent year-on-year growth in queries for the (88th) Academy Awards according to data compiled by its Search Trends algorithm. January 2016 also saw a 2X spike in searches in comparison to December 2015, the company added. advertisement According to Google, India contributed to about 2 per cent of the global searches for the Oscars this year. Up to 50 per cent of all Oscar searches worldwide originated from the US. As per Google Search Trends, Bollywood actor Priyanka Chopra who made her debut as Oscar presenter this year was the second most searched celebrity in the Red Carpet Dress category. Among the nominees for 'Best Picture', Leonardo DiCaprio starrer The Revenant claimed top spot followed by Mad Max: Fury Road. DiCaprio emerged as the most popular nominee in the race for Best Actor while Cate Blanchett emerged as the most-searched nominee for Best Actress for her role in Carol. The top directors at the 88th Academy Awards being searched for include: Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (The Revenant), Adam McKay (The Big Short), George Miller (Mad Max: Fury Road); Lenny Abrhamson (Room) and Tom McCarthy (Spotlight). Google Search Trends further revealed the top searched acceptance speeches by actors and actresses through the years. Matthew McConaughey (Best Actor 2014), Jared Leto (Best Supporting Actor, 2104), Jennifer Lawrence (Best Actress 2013), Patricia Arquette (Best Supporting Actress 2015) and Meryl Streep (Best Actress 2012) have been the top searched this year. --- ENDS --- Investigative reporting from the inner city to Wall Street to the United Nations This is the blogspot version InnerCityPress.com Germany is working on a 'Marshall Plan' for Ukraine, Karl-Georg Wellmann, head of the German-Ukrainian parliamentary group and German parliament member, has said. "We have been working on a new strategy for Ukraine's stabilization and development together with the Ukrainians. With much greater financial and political efforts. This is something new, and it will supplement the Association Agreement," Wellmann said in an interview with the newspaper Segodnya. The new strategy "is just being elaborated, it has not been incorporated into official policy," he said. "This is the idea of a solid 'Marshall Plan' for restoring the economy, management, the judiciary, etc. If this 'Marshall Plan' ever starts working, that will happen only under full control and monitoring [by Germany]. Europe is Ukraine's destiny. But you will have to do you homework first. For example, that was done by the Poles after signing the Association Agreement with the EU 20 years ago," the parliamentarian said. As to whether Europe was tired of the political situation in Ukraine, he said Germany "did not want that to happen." The Ukraine situation is being broadly discussed in the German political community and the media, he said. "You have to understand that everything [happening] in the Ukrainian government and parliament is the subject of intense monitoring in Germany. The future of Ukraine bears great significance for the whole of Europe," Wellmann said. Politics Alabama's Jeff Sessions Becomes First Senator to Endorse Trump Sessions, donning a red "Make America Great Again" hat, told the crowd that he was throwing his support behind this "movement" because, in his best estimation, "at this time in America's history, we need to make America great again!" MADISON, Alabama Jeff Sessions of Alabama became the first sitting U.S. senator to endorse Donald Trump on Sunday.Sessions, donning a red "Make America Great Again" hat, told the crowd that he was throwing his support behind this "movement" because, in his best estimation, "at this time in America's history, we need to make America great again!" Watch Sen. Jeff Sessions Endorse Trump 4:47 Sessions' endorsement comes on the heels of another high-profile endorsement from New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie.Despite having criticized Trump during his own run for the Republican nomination, Christie threw his support behind the New York real estate mogul, who he said was a longtime friend. Christie spent Friday and Saturday on the trail traveling with Trump, touting his credentials and slamming rivals, specifically Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida."I'm becoming mainstream. All these people are now endorsing me," Trump told the sprawling Alabama crowd. "When I get Jeff Sessions, that means a lot to me. That means a lot. That's a biggie, especially since he's never done it before."Sessions' endorsement startled the audience but wasn't necessarily surprising given the two men's history.Sessions first appeared with Trump on stage in Mobile late last summer. He stopped short of endorsing Trump then, but he was an adviser in crafting the Trump's immigration policy plan.In September, after Trump appeared at a rally against President Barack Obama's nuclear deal with Iran, the two men met on Capitol Hill, joined by Sarah Palin. (Palin has since endorsed Trump, as well.) And in recent weeks, one of Sessions' top aides joined the Trump campaign as a senior adviser.The endorsement comes as Alabama heads to the polls on Tuesday, one of the states participating in so-called "Super Tuesday." Trump is leading in polls in the state. To the best of my ability I write about my experience of the Universe Past, Present and Future Furthermore, those long lines were widely broadcast on state television networks, most of which had also conveyed Supreme Leader Ali Khameneis statements urging a high turnout and declaring that such a result would disappoint our enemies. Reuters pointed out in another report that these remarks were in reference to Khameneis earlier claims about foreign attempts to infiltrate and influence the elections. Other hardliners had joined in conveying these vague warnings, as well, and the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps had backed them up with the further expansion of high profile arrests of Iranians with ties to the West. IranWire reported on Friday that the IRGC had effectively acknowledged these intentions via Fars News Agency, saying that this weeks arrest of 80 year-old Baquer Namazi was carried out to uncover the complex layers of vast financial and intelligence corruption by a network that is associated to the UK and to America. No solid evidence of such a network has ever been presented, and Khamenei and others have declared at various times that the infiltration is such that its own agents may not even know they are a part of it. Nevertheless, Khameneis statements on and immediately preceding election day point to the intention to utilize this narrative to present high voter turnout as a victory for hardliners, insofar as it represents defiance of the West. The Comment reported upon Khameneis further commentary, noting that he said, The extensive presence of people in the elections makes the country stronger. In fact, this sort of reference to the domestic and international strength of the Islamic Republic became a common talking point in Iranian state media. For instance, France 24 reported that the Tehran Times had run a feature on Friday outlining the editorial staffs assessment of the geopolitical strength of the Iranian nation. While this has little to do with the elections themselves, it contributes to nationalist rhetoric that will presumably be used in the wake of the elections to boost morale among the regimes hardliner supporters, regardless of the actual outcome of the voting. In its roundup of domestic media coverage of the elections, IranWire also acknowledged the prevalence of this narrative, saying that state media has hailed todays elections as proof of the countrys power, influence and independence, calling the high voter turnout a testament to the strength and the true image of Islamic democracy. But this conspicuous overlap between the regimes propaganda and the notion of high voter turnout has contributed to skepticism about the veracity of reports of the latter. In the days leading up to the elections, the National Council of Resistance of Iran released reports on Iranian elections which highlighted the use of several tactics in past elections to boost the perception of participation in what is a highly constrained democratic process. NCRI activists who have monitored polling places in the past have found that members of the hardline Basij militia have traveled from one polling place to another to stuff ballot boxes, while state media had staged scenes at key polling places with long, artificial lines of voters. International press has tended to be specifically directed to these polling places, resulting in their carrying many of the same images as are broadcast by Iranian state television. This claim of stage-managing at some polling places is arguably supported by the fact that, according to IranWire, a New York Times journalist who had been observing Fridays elections reported mixed turnout, which much less participation in such areas as southern Tehran, far away from the polling places that were highlighted by Iranian media. The importance attached to high turnout by Khamenei and other Iranian officials indicates that the regime certainly had incentive to inflate the actual number of voters. And the NCRIs reports state that the regime has a history of so doing. Furthermore, the regimes claim to the true image of Islamic democracy is arguably more important than ever in the wake of the 2009 Green Movement and last summers nuclear agreement, which created limited openings with fully democratic countries in the West. Despite the roll of current President Hassan Rouhani in spearheading that agreement, Irans domestic freedoms have reportedly seen no noticeably improvement, as indicated by the Baquer Namazi arrest and the removal of the vast majority of so called reformist candidates form the electoral ballot through vetting by the Guardian Council. In this environment, it is in Rouhanis interest, as well as Khameneis, to encourage the perception of a legitimate and popular election. And indeed, in the days and weeks leading up to the polls, Rouhani had joined in urging every Iranian to vote. Those who showed up and voted for moderates and reformists will be seen as having endorsed the Rouhani administration. And indeed, some did this explicitly in quotations to the media. CNN quoted several voters on Election Day, some expressing support for hardliners and referring to the blood of martyrs, and others saying that they believe Iran has a good future and that there has been lots of good change since Rouhanis election in 2013. But of course these quotations only convey the views of those who did choose to support the elections. And reports from earlier in the week indicated that a number of young Iranians had gone on record as being committed to eschewing the process out of the belief that there was no prospect for real change. Much of this sentiment is based on Rouhanis record over the past two and a half years, which has lost him support among many of those who helped carry him into office amidst promises of a freer and more open Iranian society. The persistence of politically motivated arrests and strict control over the electoral process is a partial indicator of the lack of progress in this respect. These things have also been cited by the NCRI and other critics of the regime as evidence of general alignment between the Rouhani and Khamenei factions, notwithstanding their apparent disagreements over the nuclear agreement with the West. France 24 also pointed out on Friday that this situation had been highlighted by an editorial that appeared in a Lebanese newspaper and claimed that Rouhani and Khamenei were both hoping for no real change in the balance of power after Friday, since the current status of hardliners and so-called reformists has contributed to a political balance that preserves the regimes institutions without putting them too much at odds with the international community. This goes to show that it is not just opposition groups like the NCRI that have voiced doubts about the significance of reports of high voter turnouts, and of the elections themselves. In fact, another editorial in Al Arabiya criticized the international medias coverage of those elections as being prone to error and an excess of optimism. The article went on to say, Depicting the outcome of the current Iranian elections as the dominant and controlling factor in shaping and determining Irans leadership [and] domestic and foreign policies not only fails to grasp the complexities and nuances of Irans social, political, and economic establishments, but also points to the predominant misconceptions, oversimplifications, hype and lack of knowledge about Iran. What You Can't Discuss: This is a partial list of taboo topics within progressive-left venues around the Arab-Israel conflict. You cannot discuss this material because it undermines the "Palestinian narrative" of perpetual victimhood. This narrative is a club used by the Arab and Muslim enemies of Israel, along with their western progressive allies, to delegitimize that country in preparation for its eventual dissolution. 1) The centuries of Jewish dhimmitude under the boot of Islamic imperialism. 2) The recent construction of Palestinian identity, its connection to Soviet Cold War politics, and how this is an Arab people with a Roman name that refers to Greeks. 3) Arab and Palestinian Koranically-based racism as the fundamental source of the conflict. 4) The ways in which contemporary progressive anti-Zionism serves as a cloak for gross anti-Semitism. 5) The Palestinian theft and appropriation of Jewish history. 6) "Pallywood." 7) The historical connections between the Nazis, the Muslim Brotherhood, and the Palestinian national movement. 8) The perpetual refusal of the Palestinian-Arabs to accept a state for themselves in peace next to the Jewish one. 9) The progressive portrayal of terrorists as those fighting a righteous war of "resistance." 10) The Arab-Palestinian indoctrination of children with Jew hatred. 11) Human rights violations against women, children, and Gay people in the Muslim Middle East. 12) The fact that violent Jihadis call themselves "Jihadis" and claim to love death above life. This is only a partial list, so please let us know the many more that we are missing. I WRITE NEWS ABOUT AND PUT NEWS ARTICLES ABOUT ISRAEL AND JERUSALEM PERTAINING TO BIBLE PROPHESY HAPPENINGS.JOEL 3:20 But Judah (ISRAEL) shall dwell for ever, and Jerusalem from generation to generation.(THATS ISRAEL-JERUSALEM WILL NEVER BE DESTROYED AGAIN)-WE CHRISTIANS ARE ALL WAITING PATIENTLY FOR THE PRE-TRIBULATION RAPTURE TO OCCUR.SO WE CAN GO TO JESUS AND GET OUR NEVER DYING BODIES.SO WE CAN RULE OVER CITIES OURSELVES.WHILE JESUS RULES FROM DAVIDS THRONE FOREVER IN JERUSALEM. [February 29, 2016] EMC Makes A Quantum Leap In Enterprise Storage, Delivers Re-Engineered VMAX All Flash For The Modern Data Center LONDON, Feb. 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- News Highlights: Expanding upon the market-leading XtremIO all-flash array, EMC launches VMAX All Flash, completely re-engineering VMAX to capitalize on the transformational value of flash in the modern data center VMAX All Flash is built to address mission-critical enterprise data center use cases, at data storage costs less than traditional enterprise disk-based arrays EMC delivers the first-to-market all-flash storage array to natively support block, file, open systems and mainframe Features dramatically simplified appliance-like packaging and Xpect More program with guaranteed investment protection VMAX All Flash also delivered as a building block of the industry-leading VCE, EMC Converged Platforms Division, Vblock and VxBlock 740 Systems Connect With Us: Full Story: EMC Corporation (NYSE:EMC) today made a quantum leap forward in its flagship enterprise storage platform, announcing the new VMAX All Flash, the first-to-market all-flash storage array to natively support block, file, open systems and mainframe with the ability to scale up to four petabytes (PB) of data. More than just improving on raw performance, VMAX All Flash arrays deliver the legendary reliability and flexibility of the VMAX platform, while offering total cost of ownership (TCO) less than traditional enterprise disk-based arrays. Recognized by customers as the most-trusted storage array in the industry, EMC is extending the world-class VMAX data services to VMAX All Flash. In addition to a dramatically simplified management experience, its appliance-like packaging now includes both hardware and software. Available immediately, EMC's flagship VMAX array has been re-engineered to offer two new all-flash models: the EMC VMAX 450 and EMC VMAX 850. Both models are specifically designed to take full advantage of the superior performance, density and economies of scale offered by cutting-edge flash storage media. In addition, EMC will add improvements later in the year to compress data in real time, which will result in significant capacity efficiencies. More Than Just Performance Improvements VMAX All Flash is engineered specifically to capitalize on the performance of flash and the economics of today's latest large-capacity SSDs, introducing technology such as Write Folding that improves flash durability while simultaneously delivering peak performance. Multi-dimensional scalability is achieved through its V-Brick 'building block' architecture. Each V-Brick contains one VMAX engine and starts with 53TB of usable capacity that can be scaled up to 500TB in 13TB increments. Multiple V-Bricks can be combined to scale out to a maximum of ight VMAX engines and 4PB. The VMAX All Flash 450 can be configured to include one to four V-Bricks and the VMAX All Flash 850 up to eight V-Bricks, allowing customers to scale-out performance and ports easily. Building on overwhelmingly positive customer feedback for the simplified pricing and packaging of its XtremIO all-flash arrays, EMC is extending its Xpect More Program to offer customers simplified planning, deployment and management for the new VMAX All Flash array. The Xpect More Program offers the unique combination of a lifetime flat-price maintenance model and lifetime flash endurance protection. This not only removes many typical barriers to adoption of new technologies, it gives customers the ability to plan future procurement in a more predictable and efficient manner. Both the VMAX All Flash 450 and VMAX All Flash 850 leverage the world-class data services of the VMAX family and come in two appliance-like package offerings. The base-level F package includes: Thin Provisioning QoS Embedded Unisphere VVols support and SnapVX technology AppSync data protection software to address Copy Data Management (CDM) needs For customers who require a broader range of native data services, the FX package also includes: The complete suite of EMC SRDF software for remote replication software for remote replication Controller-based Data at Rest Encryption ([email protected]) EMC ViPR Suite (both Controller and SRM) for Software-Defined automated provisioning, management, and monitoring Suite (both Controller and SRM) for Software-Defined automated provisioning, management, and monitoring EMC CloudArray software to link non-critical data between VMAX and cloud storage services software to link non-critical data between VMAX and cloud storage services EMC eNAS technology for file storage The newly launched EMC Unisphere 360 for simple, consolidated storage management of up to 200 VMAX arrays in a single data center EMC ProtectPoint data protection software can be added to any configuration of VMAX All Flash to perform direct backup between VMAX and EMC Data Domain protection storage, without the need for traditional backup infrastructure. This avoids the typical data protection bottlenecks that can prevent flash storage platforms from reaching their potential. Flash For Mission-Critical Environments VMAX All Flash delivers millions of IOPS and sustains under 500 microseconds of latency for read/write workloads while supporting up to 150GB/s of bandwidth. With a native set of rich data services, VMAX All Flash is designed to support the most mission-critical systems and applications with world-class business continuity and disaster recovery capabilities that deliver six-nines availability through EMC SRDF remote replication technology. Customers can simplify their business continuity plans by consolidating workloads onto a single VMAX All Flash to protect vital information and run native data services. VMAX All Flash supports a broad ecosystem of applications and systems including: Oracle, VMware, Microsoft and OpenStack as well as support for IBM Mainframe and iSeries. As customers move towards a Software-Defined Data Center and look for simple integration into management and orchestration platforms, VMAX All Flash provides Restful-APIs to facilitate data center integration. Orderable today, EMC's Converged Platforms Division (VCE), will also deliver the VMAX all-flash platform in the VCE Vblock and VxBlock 740 Systems, providing customers with the fastest, lowest risk path to a modern data center. In addition, the VMAX All Flash is orderable as a VCE Technology Extension to existing Vblock and VxBlock Systems and VCE Vscale Fabric implementations, providing customers with a path to significantly extend the performance and capabilities of their current VCE-enabled data centers. EMC Makes A Quantum Leap Forward In Storage The launch of VMAX All Flash is one of a number of new announcements made by EMC today that can help customers tap into the transformational benefits of flash. Including: Customer Quote: Ari Bose, Chief Information Officer, Brocade "As Brocade expands into new markets, our requirement for consistent low-latency, high-performance data storage is growing rapidly. But we can't afford to compromise performance, reduced resiliency or lack of native data services. We have a long and trusted relationship with EMC and its VMAX platform, so VMAX All Flash will allow us to meet our evolving needs. The simple planning and deployment for scale-out and scale-up flash storage, supported by the enterprise data services that we rely on from EMC, make VMAX All Flash the optimum solution for our needs." Industry Analyst Quote: Mark Peters, Practice Director & Senior Analyst, ESG "The storage industry is changing, both extensively and rapidly. When flash is faster, cheaper and offers a better cost-capacity-performance ratio than disk, it becomes the obvious choice for workloads that aren't purely capacity oriented. But this still only makes sense when flash can deliver the same reliability promises that organizations have come to expect for their enterprise storage. Reliability, simplicity and integration will be the hallmarks of a new breed of flash storage for 'regular enterprise' use; a category which we expect to come into its own in 2016." EMC Executive Quote: Guy Churchward, President, Core Technologies, EMC Corporation "2016 is the Year of All-Flash for primary storage and EMC is marking this milestone with the VMAX All Flash a completely re-engineered platform that leverages extremely dense flash drives, paired with the power and simplicity of the VMAX data services platform. VMAX All Flash is designed for the modern data center delivering monster IOPS and consistent sub-millisecond latency while offering world-class six-nines availability. The new VMAX All Flash has made a quantum leap forward in capability, performance and cost efficiency. And it only marks the beginning of EMC's all-flash future." About EMC EMC Corporation is a global leader in enabling businesses and service providers to transform their operations and deliver IT as a service. Fundamental to this transformation is cloud computing. Through innovative products and services, EMC accelerates the journey to cloud computing, helping IT departments to store, manage, protect and analyze their most valuable asset information in a more agile, trusted and cost-efficient way. Additional information about EMC can be found at www.EMC.com. EMC, AppSync, CloudArray, Data Domain, DSSD, D5, ProtectPoint, SnapVX, SRDF, Unisphere, ViPR and VMAX are trademarks or registered trademarks of EMC Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners. VCE, VCE Vision, VCE Vscale, Vblock, VxBlock, VxRack, VxRail, and the VCE logo are registered trademarks or trademarks of VCE Company LLC. All other trademarks used herein are the property of their respective owners. Copyright 2010-2016 VCE Company, LLC. All rights reserved. This release contains "forward-looking statements" as defined under the Federal Securities Laws. Actual results could differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements as a result of certain risk factors, including but not limited to: (i) risks associated with the proposed acquisition of EMC by Denali Holdings, Inc., the parent company of Dell, Inc., including, among others, assumptions related to the ability to close the acquisition, the expected closing date and its anticipated costs and benefits; (ii) adverse changes in general economic or market conditions; (iii) delays or reductions in information technology spending; (iv) the relative and varying rates of product price and component cost declines and the volume and mixture of product and services revenues; (v) competitive factors, including but not limited to pricing pressures and new product introductions; (vi) component and product quality and availability; (vii) fluctuations in VMware, Inc.'s operating results and risks associated with trading of VMware stock; (viii) the transition to new products, the uncertainty of customer acceptance of new product offerings and rapid technological and market change; (ix) risks associated with managing the growth of our business, including risks associated with acquisitions and investments and the challenges and costs of integration, restructuring and achieving anticipated synergies; (x) the ability to attract and retain highly qualified employees; (xi) insufficient, excess or obsolete inventory; (xii) fluctuating currency exchange rates; (xiii) threats and other disruptions to our secure data centers or networks; (xiv) our ability to protect our proprietary technology; (xv) war or acts of terrorism; and (xvi) other one-time events and other important factors disclosed previously and from time to time in EMC's filings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. EMC disclaims any obligation to update any such forward-looking statements after the date of this release. Photo - http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20160228/338297-INFO To view the original version on PR Newswire, visit:http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/emc-makes-a-quantum-leap-in-enterprise-storage-delivers-re-engineered-vmax-all-flash-for-the-modern-data-center-300227485.html SOURCE EMC Corporation DataGravity CISO Andrew Hay to discuss enterprise IoT security concerns at RSA Conference DataGravity, creator of the first data-aware storage platform, today announced that Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) Andrew Hay will lead an RSA (News - Alert) Conference session about the effects of consumer Internet of Things (IoT) devices on network security. Hay's session, "Enterprise Security Concerns for Consumer IoT Devices," will be held on Thursday, March 3 from 3:20 p.m. to 4:10 p.m. PT at the Moscone Center in San Francisco. Held from February 29 to March 4, the RSA Conference is one of the premier security events of the year and helps drive the information security agenda worldwide. Since its founding in 1991, the conference has featured the best and brightest minds in the security field discussing IT security's most pressing issues. Hay's discussion is designed to explore the known threats and vulnerabilities of employee-owned connected devices, and will cover security policies, procedures and controls that organizations can put in place to protect themselves and their data. "IoT devices are making their way into our corporate networks but are not up to the same security standards to which we hold enterprise endpoints or infrastructure," Hay said. "Our hope is that by attending this session, security professionals can better understand the security implications of the IoT devices in their own environments." Hay is uniquely qualified to bring these IoT security concerns to light. He has more than 15 years of data security experience and is a frequent and popular contributor to the RSA Conference. His previous sessions include: Additional resources Read DataGravity President and Co-founder John Joseph's blog about the upcoming RSA Conference. Sign up for the DataGravity newsletter for updates and tips about eliminating data security risks. Add Hay's session to your RSA Conference agenda. About DataGravity DataGravity helps organizations unlock the value of their data. The DataGravity Discovery Series is a data-aware storage platform that allows IT professionals and line-of-business users to store, protect, search and govern their data. Its patented technology, powered by the DataGravity Engine, analyzes data as it is ingested without impacting performance, so administrators and users can quickly and easily explore and use data more effectively to derive insights that reduce risk and increase productivity, efficiency and organizational success. Headquartered in Nashua, N.H., DataGravity is led by visionaries in the fields of storage, business intelligence, data management and analytics and is funded by leading investors, including Accel Partners (News - Alert), Andreessen Horowitz, CRV and General Catalyst Partners. For more information, visit www.datagravity.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160229005513/en/ [February 29, 2016] RiskIQ Named Best of Breed Digital Footprint Security Solution by Cyber Defense Magazine RSA (News - Alert) Conference, RiskIQ, the leader in external threat management, today announced that it has received the "Best of Breed Digital Footprint Security Solution" award for 2016 from Cyber Defense Magazine. The CDM 4th Annual Infosec Awards, which honor innovations in cyber security, are being presented at RSA Conference 2016. Winners were selected by an independent panel of leading information security experts. RiskIQ will demonstrate the RiskIQ Digital Footprint solution at RSA Conference South Expo Booth #645. "The Enterprise Digital Footprint, which is made up of websites, mobile apps and social media assets, is under attack from external threats. Being recognized by Cyber Defense Magazine with the first ever award in this new category validates RiskIQ's pioneering work to secure this attack vector," said Elias Manousos, CEO of RiskIQ. "We are honored to have been chosen the best of breed provider for managing external threats like malvertising, copycat mobile apps and social media attacks." "RiskIQ is a true innovator in digital footprint security," said Pierluigi Paganini, Editor-in-Chief, Cyber Defense Magazine. "Companies like RiskIQ, that address unmet challenges like managing external threats, are moving infosecurity forward." The RiskIQ Digital Footprint soltion continuously discovers, indexes and monitors Internet assets from the outside in, enabling security teams to detect and quickly respond to external threats in order to take control of security outside the firewall. By providing a dynamic index of the enterprise web attack surface, RiskIQ enables security teams to bring unknown or shadow IT assets under management and make accurate, strategic risk management decisions. RiskIQ provides the visibility enterprises need to eliminate threats on web, mobile and social properties that put customers, employees and the organization at risk. About Cyber Defense Magazine Cyber Defense Magazine is the industry's leading electronic information security magazine and media partner of the RSA Conference 2016.Cyber Defense Magazine is the premier source of IT Security information. We are managed and published by and for ethical, honest, passionate information security professionals. Our mission is to share cutting edge knowledge, real world stories and awards on the best ideas, products and services in the information technology industry. We deliver electronic magazines every month online for free and limited print editions exclusively for the RSA Conferences and our paid subscribers. Learn more about us at http://www.cyberdefensemagazine.com About RiskIQ RiskIQ provides organizations the visibility and intelligence they need to secure their Enterprise Digital Footprint and to map their Adversaries' infrastructure. RiskIQ products, powered by a global proxy network, virtual user technology, and threat analysis engine allow organizations to get an actionable and timely picture of both their own and their adversaries infrastructure proactively defending against threats targeting their websites, mobile applications, brands, customers, and employees. Leading financial institutions, insurance providers and consumer as well as B2B brands use RiskIQ to protect themselves and their users from code level threats, malware, phishing, social media attacks and fraud. RiskIQ is headquartered in San Francisco and backed by growth equity firms Summit Partners and Battery Ventures. To learn more about RiskIQ, visit www.riskiq.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160229005703/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] [February 29, 2016] AI-Driven 'Jottr Elect' Now Available Exclusively for iPhone Jottr Elect, a powerful news app which uses artificial intelligence (AI) to learn from voters as the voters themselves learn about candidates and elections, is now available as a free download from the App Store exclusively for iPhone (News - Alert) and iPad. "Jottr Elect is the only app that uses machine learning and AI technology from OpenDNA to customize political content for its users," said Jay Shah, OpenDNA's CEO. "It is available now, in time for Super Tuesday, exclusively for iPhone and iPad. It uses 3D touch for real-time polling as well as fast, easy and very personal interaction, while delivering only political stories relevant to users." Mr. Shah said that, "Jottr Elect empowers users to fully control their own interest data and view political content relevant to the presidential candidates and issues they follow. It also gives voters news an information from more than 2,000 global media outlets, and from varied points of view." Jottr Elect is powered by OpenDNA, an emerging platform that leverages AI and M2M (machine-to-machine) learning to build dynamic user profiles while adaptively learning what information is relevant to users based on interactions with commonly used apps. 'Jottr Elect Breaks New Ground in Monitoring the Election Process' "Whether you back Donald Trump or if you follow Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders, Ted Cruz or Marco Rubio, Jottr Elect has a unique ability to 'learn the voter' and customize delivery of the information voters want," said Wayne Allyn Root, a well-known American businessman, politician, television and radio personality, bestselling author and political commentator. "Without question," Mr. Root said, "Jottr Elect breaks new ground in monitoring the election process." About OpenDNA Founded in 2014 in London, and now headquartered Silicon Valley, OpenDNA paves the way for "The Internet of Me," allowing connected apps and systems to provide highly personalized relevant experiences for users. OpenDNA is headed by CEO Jay Shah, an award-winning entrepreneur with more than 20 years of experience and success in the global IT industry. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160229006235/en/ [ Back To TMCnet.com's Homepage ] SolEd and KYOCERA Solar Help California School District Save Money, Educate on Renewables The Old Adobe Union School District (OAUSD) in Petaluma, CA (News - Alert), signed a Power Purchase Agreement (PPA) with SolEd Solar Holdings II to "go green" with no up-front costs, Kyocera Solar, Inc. announced today. As a result, the district and its students will benefit from a hands-on learning experience in solar energy and retain all Renewable Energy Credits while achieving energy cost savings of more than $1 million over 20 years. The 460kW solar project, developed by SolEd Benefit Corp, formed with the mission to lower energy costs for schools and public benefit clients, was installed by Sun Light & Power, which has designed more than 1,000 solar systems since 1976, including many for schools. OAUSD locations benefitting from the PPA include: La Tercera Elementary School (139kW) Loma Vista Immersion Academy (72kW) Miwok Valley Language Academy (144kW) Old Adobe Elementary School (105kW) The four photovoltaic (PV) systems comprise top-tier technology including Kyocera's (News - Alert) high-reliability multicrystalline silicon PV 265-watt solar modules, transformer-less string inverters by SMA Solar Technology, and ground-mount structures engineered and built by RBI Solar, Inc. Through SolEd's PPA, OAUSD doesn't own the solar systems, but agrees to purchase all of the clean energy produced at a predetermined rate, helping to stabilize utility costs. In the summer and on weekends, the district's meters will effectively run backwards, netting cost savings beginning Year 1 and growing over time. Key terms of the Solar PPA include: No upfront capital cost or ongoing debt for the school district No district obligation to operate and maintain the solar facilities A simple agreement to pay for the clean energy delivered to each meter "The OAUSD project combines Kyocera's commitments to environmental education and responsibility with decades of expertise in reliable, efficient solar energy solutions," said Hitoshi Atari, President of Kyocera Solar. "We're proud to support this significant educational installation as a visual reminder for students to witness solar technology in action." The four systems combined are expected to produce 705,000kWh of renewable electricity annually - equivalent to 67 households' energy consumption or avoiding 486 metric tons of carbon from being released into the atmosphere - facts that students in the district will learn. To enhance students' understanding of clean energy technology, SolEd introduced the district to Strategic Energy Innovations (SEI), a provider of curriculum services aimed toward creating environmental stewards and future community leaders. Subject to district direction, teachers will be trained on solar monitoring and functionality and access SEI's curriculum: energy and resource efficiency, climate change science, renewables, green transportation and careers. "We hope that exposing students first-hand to renewable energy will foster interest in advancing green technologies and encourage environmental responsibility," said David Kunhardt, CEO of SolEd Benefit Corp. "The simple web interface detailing the solar energy created - plus the cost savings - can be tremendous, real-life teaching tools." About KYOCERA Kyocera Corporation of Kyoto, Japan, recorded consolidated sales of $12.7 billion in the fiscal year ended March 31, 2015. The company has a 40-year tradition of innovation in solar energy research, development and manufacturing, with a U.S. customer base served by Kyocera Solar, Inc. of Scottsdale, AZ. Kyocera is the only solar module manufacturer to have earned the highest rating across all six test categories in GTM Research's PV Module Reliability Scorecard. 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A few months back I wrote about $10,000 in shares that my employer would be paying me out as part of the separation of my employment. This past week, that cheque finally arrived! The consensus on that post was to keep the cash liquid until things settled down with the sale of our house, new baby, my future job prospects etc.The decision I had to make was the best way to convert the cheque which was issued in USD to Canadian dollars. The exchange rate is around 1.35, but most institutions charge some sort of fee.Here is a breakdown of the rates and fee's as of Thursday last week at some local banks:I was going to write a post humming and hawing about if I should contact other institutions or just go with Tangerine. I had spent thirty minutes on the phone just getting these rates - which doesn't sound like a long time, but really felt like it because Little Man was crying and fussing the whole time.So.I'm not going to write that post, or ask for that advise.I decided to just deposit the cheque with Tangerine. I have to mail it because there are no Scotia ATMs where I live, and you can't use the cheque in feature with USD cheques. Sometimes, you just have to do what works - and this time, with the level of sleep depravation I'm dealing with, this worked. These sermons have been preached by Pastor Joachim Rieck of the Eastside Baptist Church, Windhoek, Namibia over a number of years. They are published as an additional help or resource for our congregation and anybody who may profit from these. These are obviously only manuscripts, and as such they cannot fully convey the preacher's passion for the Word of God. I preach on average 45 minute sermons, and therefore much of what I say and apply to the congregation with the help of the Holy Spirit is not found in these manuscripts. I freely acknowledge my huge debt to commentators and other preachers who have helped me to think through the Scriptures. Any mistakes or errors are mine, and I am happy to be corrected wherever I may have erred in my exegesis or interpretation. 1. Comments must not be racist, misogynistic, homophobic, or otherwise bigoted. 2. Comments must not involve little more than name-calling and insulting remarks. 3. Comments must not be made by "anonymous" or "unknown". 4. Comments must not try to sneak in some free advertising for themselves (like spam). I invite anyone who wishes to comment on this blog to do so. I enjoy the comments, whether you agree with what I have said or not. But some people want to abuse the right to comment, and since this is my blog, I have decided to lay down the following rules. If your comment violates these rules, it will not be published. As a registered charity, founded in 1979, Action Contre la Faim operates in 37 countries. The international network of Action Contre la Faim is represented in Paris, London, Madrid, Montreal and New York. Teams in the field combat hunger on 4 fronts: nutrition, food security, health, water and sanitation. For our Nutrition Programme in Sekota, we are currently looking for the following professionals: Deputy Nutrition Program Manager Male/Female Work Base: Sekota Availability: As Soon As Possible Project Duration: 6 Months Period Objective 1 : Supervise ACF team: Participate in the recruiting process; Report training needs to the PM; Assist in the implementation of training sessions in the nutrition department on the base; Organize training and refreshers training courses for the team; Explain and ensure application of the nutrition protocols; Supervise, check and analyze the daily and monthly reports of the team. Objective 2: Improve the quality of programmes Participate in field assessment in order to identify the needs; Collect, cross check and correct weekly and monthly statistics/ activity report from the mobile teams/sites; Draft weekly and monthly reports for the nutrition program and analyze the nutrition situation and the performance of the team/programme; Participate in the definition/modification of the programs, follow-up and evaluation; Identify possible work or team problems, try to solve them and report to the PM If there is any problem, analyze report and find solution for that problem. Objective 3: Provide technical, organizational support and supervision to the existing health structures: Ensure that the protocols /guidelines are strictly followed and implemented Providing and participating in continuous and practical training, supervision and monitoring of the existing health structures Supervise the OTP/SC/SFP program Ensuring that the existing health structures (HP) will conduct systematic screening, record and report the children who come for consultation where OTPs are implemented. Objective 4: Supervise the management of supplies (therapeutic foods (F75/F100), RUTF, medicines and medical and anthropometric equipment): Collect, check and complete the orders before have them validated by the PM Check the coherence of the state of stocks with the orders Check that the medicines, the therapeutic food and RUTF and are delivered on time; Take delivery of the orders. Consolidate the monthly consumption report; Objective 5: Liaise with the authorities/partners Communicate the programmes activities to the authorities/partners Represent ACF in meeting with authorities/partners when needed at Woreda level. Objective 6: Ensure the interim for the Programme Manager when absent. Job Requirements Monday, February 29, 2016 Key Legislative Race For Control Of NM House Takes Shape, Plus: City News: The State Of Cruces, Santa Fe's Shortfall And ABQ's Buses Ane Romero Can Democrats take back control of the state House this year, making a two year run by the R's a mere political hiccup? It's hard to say but it could come down to House District 15, a swing ABQ district that includes parts of the North Valley as well as the NE Heights. The district is represented by freshman GOP State Rep. While Barnes, an ABQ attorney, has impressed, Dems think they have a first-tier candidate who matches up perfectly with her. She's 35 year old Maestas Barnes This race could be a battle over voter priorities. During the recent legislative session Maestas Barnes pushed bills through the House for tougher DWI penalties and child porn. It was part of the all-crime-all-the-time agenda engineered by the Guv's political machine. However, the incumbent could be vulnerable on jobs and education. Here's how Ane (correct spelling) Romero puts it: In the legislature, I will fight for a quality education for every child and a fair system that supports educators. Ill work to rebuild our economy by supporting small businesses and investing in job training programs to enhance our workforce. I will also continue to work toward real and innovative solutions to ensure the well-being and safety of our communities is met. Crime is third on the list there, but Romero does appear to be preparing for the R's "weak on crime" attack. She takes a subtle dig at the measures supported by her opponent, casting them as not particularly "real" or "innovative." In 2014, Maestas Barnes took the seat from Dem Emily Kane by the narrow margin of 51.9% to 48.1%. This is going to be a hard-fought race and among the top ones to watch this year. The D's need to pick up three seats in the 70 member House to take back control. It is currently divided 37 to 33 in favor of the R's. DATELINE LAS CRUCES Miyagishima You could fault longtime Las Cruces Mayor For example, they joined the AG and others in the battle to reduce a proposed El Paso Electric rate increase of $8 million. They have had some success and that will help city consumers and businesses. A refreshing aspect of the Mayor's speech was what it did not include--crime. Unlike ABQ, the economic downturn has apparently not spiked the crime stats, giving Cruces a leg up in the livability category. DATELINE SANTA FE The Joe: Santa Fes current gross receipts tax rate, 8.31%, is tied for 22nd highest out of 231 local tax districts, which puts the city in the highest 10% statewide. (The section of Espanola that lies in Santa Fe County leads the way at 8.93%). A 1/8th increase would move the city to the top 5% of the highest rates statewide. Both the state and national press have noted that Santa Fe has some of the highest water rates nationwide. The franchise fee is, of course, a rate hike by another name. It would just be passing money from one city pocket to another. So if the franchise fee is adopted, city water rates will, sooner or later, go still higher. DATELINE ABQ What no one is willing to speculate about is the cost to move water and sewer from beneath the proposed bus lanes. This cost is not figured into the federal grant the city received so taxpayers will pay via a water rate increase. For example, ask how much it will cost to relocate these services at the Central/Girard/Monte Vista intersection, only one of many trunk line intersections. It isn't going to be cheap. That's why the Water Authority mentioned the relocation early on and has been mostly silent since. And reader and columnist Harold Morgan writes: I detect the beginnings of a movement on this issue. I suspect the mayor has already lost the politics. That means he should back up and rethink the various projects comprising ART. Where is the mayor on this? He should be running these public meetings. Its' his job. A more positive review of ART is offered by Urban ABQ, a group working to make the city more walkable. It comes with this This is the home of New Mexico politics. Interested in reaching New Mexico's most informed audience? Advertise here. ( c)NM POLITICS WITH JOE MONAHAN 2016 Can Democrats take back control of the state House this year, making a two year run by the R's a mere political hiccup? It's hard to say but it could come down to House District 15, a swing ABQ district that includes parts of the North Valley as well as the NE Heights.The district is represented by freshman GOP State Rep. Sarah Maestas Barnes who has proven to be a nimble politician. She has carefully forged relationships on both sides of the aisle and avoided a too warm embrace of the Republican agenda that could doom her in a presidential election year when voter turnout trends higher. She has been highlighted as a rising star by the GOP and will receive maximum backing from the R's as they work to keep control of the House.While Barnes, an ABQ attorney, has impressed, Dems think they have a first-tier candidate who matches up perfectly with her. She's 35 year old Ane Romero , a NM native and behavioral health consultant who did a stint on the staff of Dem US Senator Martin Heinrich who is supporting her.This race could be a battle over voter priorities. During the recent legislative session Maestas Barnes pushed bills through the House for tougher DWI penalties and child porn. It was part of the all-crime-all-the-time agenda engineered by the Guv's political machine. However, the incumbent could be vulnerable on jobs and education. Here's how Ane (correct spelling) Romero puts it:Crime is third on the list there, but Romero does appear to be preparing for the R's "weak on crime" attack. She takes a subtle dig at the measures supported by her opponent, casting them as not particularly "real" or "innovative."In 2014, Maestas Barnes took the seat from Dem Emily Kane by the narrow margin of 51.9% to 48.1%. This is going to be a hard-fought race and among the top ones to watch this year. The D's need to pick up three seats in the 70 member House to take back control. It is currently divided 37 to 33 in favor of the R's.You could fault longtime Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima for avoiding the elephant in the room doing his recent State of the City speech. A two year recession there has pushed unemployment to 7.5%. Still, Miyagishima and his well-regarded City Manager Robert Garza are managing the downturn.For example, they joined the AG and others in the battle to reduce a proposed El Paso Electric rate increase of $8 million. They have had some success and that will help city consumers and businesses. Budget cuts at the Army's Ft. Bliss and NMSU have served as a drag on the city.A refreshing aspect of the Mayor's speech was what it did not include--crime. Unlike ABQ, the economic downturn has apparently not spiked the crime stats, giving Cruces a leg up in the livability category.The proposed cure to the $18 million budget deficit in the city of Santa Fe includes gross receipts and property tax hikes as well as taking money from the water utility fund to finance other city services. That's not setting well with reader Joe Lennihan in the City Different: Here in the big city it's Mayor Berry's controversial $119 million rapid bus plan (ART) for a stretch of Central Avenue that has been dominating the debate. Here's reader John with his take:And reader and columnist Harold Morgan writes:A more positive review of ART is offered by Urban ABQ, a group working to make the city more walkable. It comes with this in-depth defense of the project.This is the home of New Mexico politics. E-mail your news and comments. (jmonahan@ix.netcom.com) The Cornhusker Chapter of Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) held their Twentieth Annual Excellence in Construction Awards ceremony on February 17, 2016, at The Embassy Suites Hotel & Conference Center, La Vista, Neb. The awards competition is designed to publicly recognize the quality and distinction of merit shop construction projects built by Nebraska Contractors during 2015. Entries were evaluated by independent judges on craftsmanship; execution/coordination; budget and scheduling; owner satisfaction; difficult or unusual challenges and safety. The 11 Eagle Award winners are now eligible to enter ABCs National Excellence in Construction Awards Program. The 2015 Project of the Year award was presented to an Omaha Firm; Lueder Construction Co., for their project, Forest Lawn Mortuary, Omaha, Neb., which was entered in the Commercial Less than $5 Million Category. The 2015 Eagle Safety Award went to the winning project that demonstrated outstanding commitments toward safety. The winner of this award was IES Commercial, Inc., Holdrege, Neb., for their project, Valent BioSciences Biorational Production Facility, Osage, Iowa, entered in the Electrical More than $10 Million Category. The following Lincoln ABC Member Company received an Excellence In Construction Eagle Award at the ceremony; Cheever Construction for the Lincoln Childrens Zoo Tortoise Trek, Lincoln, Neb., in the Other Construction Less than $2 Million category. ABC represents over 100 merit shop contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers, manufacturers and associate members throughout the state. There are 70 ABC chapters nationally with over 21,000 member companies advocating the merit shop philosophy, which stresses merit rewards for employee performance and promotes high quality construction at competitive rates. OMAHA The Douglas County jail in Omaha has a new prisoner unit to house military veterans, the first of its kind in Nebraska and one of several in jails nationwide. The Douglas County Department of Corrections unit, which houses 25 to 30 men, opened about three months ago and is based on the idea that many crimes committed by veterans are related to things that happened to them in the military. "People who went down-range, they saw things, they have PTSD, they are back, they self-medicate and they get in trouble," said Mick Wagoner, a lawyer with the Veterans Support Legal Network. The unit is open to all male military veterans except for the most dangerous, predatory or disruptive. For example, people facing murder charges aren't eligible, nor are those with chronic behavior problems in jail. Jail officials say there are not enough women veterans in the jail for a separate female veterans housing unit. The jail can't house women and men together, said Michael Myers, the county's community corrections director. But he said it offers the same services to women veterans that it does to men. Those services include help with everything from addiction and mental health issues to exploring military discharge upgrades, education, housing and employment preparation. A day in the veterans unit begins with it a reveille and roll call and a trip to a small gym for a series of exercises. Afterward, they return to their unit for breakfast and then the Pledge of Allegiance. After their morning routine, the men meet in groups or one-on-one with counselors and advisers and have support group meetings. The unit is already exceeding the expectations of jail staff. In-house program coordinator Justine Wall said he's never seen a prison unit operate the way the veterans unit does, "where everybody looks out for each other, everybody takes care of each other." A judge has allowed two Nebraska inmates to go forward with parts of their lawsuit against the state over conditions at Tecumseh State Correctional Institution, but the inmates won't get the declaration they sought that says an overcrowding emergency exists. Dukhan Mumin and Khalid Muhammad sued the state, Nebraska Department of Correctional Services, State Claims Board, Board of Parole and Correct Care Solutions, which provides health care to the prison, alleging 19 claims. The state parties asked the judge to dismiss the lawsuit. But, in a recent order, Lancaster County District Judge Jodi Nelson allowed the inmates to go forward, for now, on five of their claims, which allege the following. * Inadequate ventilation * Exposure to communicable diseases * Lack of programming and treatment * Classification * Contaminated water She dismissed the rest, including a request to declare that an emergency exists at the prison, and said that Mumin and Muhammad had failed to state a claim for which relief could be granted. Nelson also dismissed a claim generally alleging inadequate medical care and dismissed Correct Care Solutions from the lawsuit. And she pointed out that it appeared the two inmates were attempting to pursue the case as a class action, which they are permitted to do at this point. In a complaint filed in January 2015, Mumin and Muhammad said they wanted $40 million each for what they called intentional infliction of emotional distress and another $120 million each for punitive damages. They both are habitual criminals serving at least 10 years for their most recent crimes. Mumin, 60, was sentenced in 2013 to 10 to 20 years on a Lancaster County cocaine charge. Muhammad, 48, was sentenced in 2007 to 10 to 40 years for a Sarpy County theft. Nebraska's nine prisons have room for 3,275 inmates and held 5,102 -- about 156 percent of capacity -- at the end of August. Reaching 140 percent of capacity triggers a report to the governor, who can declare an emergency, but Gov. Pete Ricketts has not done so, nor did Gov. Dave Heineman before him. That level also can be a benchmark federal judges use to order construction of new cells. Efforts to address the state's prison system are underway. As of Aug. 31, the Tecumseh prison held 1,048 inmates, 109 percent of capacity. Two Californians were arrested Friday evening after Nebraska State Patrol officers found more than 100 pounds of marijuana in their rented SUV near Lincoln, according to a probable cause affidavit for their arrests. Trooper R.J. Pelster saw a black Chevy Suburban in the passing lane on Interstate 80 in Seward County about 5:45 p.m., court documents say. He said traffic was backing up behind the SUV and he followed it, noticing that two rental cars appeared to be following it as well. The trooper stopped the SUV for speeding and impeding traffic near the Pleasant Dale exit in Lancaster County. The trooper said the SUV was rented to Yakuba Brown, who wasn't inside, documents say. The driver said no one was following him, Pelster said. Pelster contacted other troopers in the area and told them to look out for a silver Suburban and Toyota Camry that he thought were following the black Suburban. A short time later, troopers found the two parked at a gas station at 27th Street and Wildcat Drive. Brown was driving the silver Suburban and Stephen Montgomery was driving the Camry, court documents say. Both gave consent for a search, and troopers found suitcases in the back of Brown's SUV. A drug dog was brought in but didnt indicate any odor of drugs, according to the documents. All three vehicles were released, but a Homeland Security agent contacted the patrol soon after to say Brown is on probation for drugs in California and the term of his probation included a search clause that would allow the troopers to search his vehicle more closely. Troopers searched the silver Suburban again and found 135 pounds of marijuana inside the suitcases and three handbags, documents say. Brown and Montgomery were arrested on suspicion of possession of marijuana with the intent to deliver. The driver of the black Suburban was let go. People of all ages and dogs of all kinds gathered Saturday and Sunday for Lincoln's annual I Love My Dog Expo at Lancaster Event Center. Nearly 80 vendors and 1,500 people attended, according to Miree Hampton, a representative from Domesti-PUPS. "It's been phenomenal," Hampton said. "It brings me to tears to be a part of it -- the love people have for others and their animals." The annual event is a benefit for Domesti-PUPS, a Lincoln-based nonprofit organization that provides service dogs to people with disabilities. Amy Burris is a dog breeder and brings her canines to these events to socialize them. "It's very healthy for your dogs to socialize with other dogs and people," Burris said. The expo is the perfect opportunity to do that; Burris attends every year. It's also why Jeri Fredirik came. She has six silky terriers and puts them in shows once or twice a year. She decided to bring them to the I Love My Dog Expo to let them interact with other dogs. Representatives from several animal shelters attended the expo to find homes for some of their dogs. Anne Vasilisin, who works with Little White Dog Rescue, was trying to find homes for two hairy hairless Chinese crested dogs: Sheena, 3, and Knoel, 6 months. "It's amazing at this event where all these rescue groups can come and get dogs seen and adopted," Vasilisin said. About Me africanelections www.africanelections.org contact us at africanelectionsproject AT gmail.com View my complete profile Looking at the big picture requires us to ask if it really makes sense to lock up 2.3 million people on any given day, giving this nation the dubious distinction of having the highest incarceration rate in the world. To compound the overcrowding problem, Nebraska's criminal justice system has offenders with mental health and substance use problems that are not getting the treatment they deserve. In Estelle vs. Gamble in 1976, the Supreme Court clearly determined that the Eighth Amendment requires prison officials to provide a system of ready access to adequate medical care, including mental health care. These offenders experience reintegration complications upon release, and typically have worse outcomes with respect to employment, re-offending and re-incarceration. Dear Amy: I am an alcoholic in remission. I am not recovering -- I have a disease that I fight daily. For almost 17 years I have not had alcohol in any form. Also on the no-no list are painkillers. You cannot imagine how this has been. This is my sore spot: I have family and friends who bemoaned my drinking for the first half-century of my life. These people have never -- and I mean never -- hosted an alcohol-free event. It doesn't matter what it is: funeral, wedding, barbecue, birthday party, Christmas, Thanksgiving, whatever. They have never honored me, or my journey, by saying, "Hey, we aren't going to allow any drinking at this event -- just for you." I have requested that they do so, and they have flat-out said no. There are times that I can actually ignore the booze. But there are times when the walls start to close in and I panic because the mere smell of a deep red wine makes me lose all reasoning and all I want to do is flee (or have a drink). So -- I flee. Then I sit in the car and cry. I want to still be part of the crowd, to laugh, to joke and eat good food. I want to enjoy the camaraderie of the group energy, but I can't. I always have to be on guard. That's so unfair and just once and a while it would be nice not to worry about it when I'm around Normies. Is that too much to ask? -- Sober Dear Sober: First let me express my admiration for 17 years of one-day-at-a-time. It might be a good idea to find a local sober/recovery group where you can check in and share your story, strategies and frustrations. It is unfortunate that your family and friends don't support your sobriety more fully. Either they simply have no idea of the magnitude of the challenge for you or they are being blatantly disrespectful of your reasonable request to attend an alcohol-free event occasionally. My instinct is that alcohol is an important part of your family's culture. However -- guess what? Just as they couldn't prevent you from a half-century of drinking, you cannot prevent them from continuing to drink. It's the age-old Serenity Prayer challenge -- to cope with those things (and people) you cannot change. I hope you have at least one friend who is willing to host alcohol-free dinners and parties along with you so that you can enjoy food and fellowship without the constant worry that you will relapse. Dear Amy: There is an email discussion group in our community that my wife is a member of. My wife and I each have our own desk with our own computers. At her request, I always turn on my wife's computer in the morning before she gets up. I've been reading my wife's email, scanning the group message subject lines, to see if there was anything interesting enough to read. My wife got up early one morning and saw me doing this. She didn't know I had a habit of reading her emails in the morning. She is now angry with me. She says she feels I've crossed the line and invaded her privacy. I feel that I'm not invading her privacy because the only emails I look at are from the community discussion group. Am I off base? -- S in California Dear S: I agree with your wife. If you think of email as postal mail, then any letter that is addressed to both you and your wife could be opened and read by either of you. Any email addressed to your wife and sent to her computer should be considered her property. If you want to learn what the members of your community discussion group are communicating about, then it is very easy for you to get yourself on the listserv. Dear Amy: "At a Loss" wondered why her addict dad faded away from the family. You do not seem to know much about addiction. Sadly I'm also an addicted parent. The main reason I chose to fade away was because it became very hard to deal with a spouse and kids and still try to get my life on track. It took almost three years to get sober. Kids, unfortunately, were neglected. But there isn't a day gone by where I don't wish to be able to turn back the clock and be a better dad to my children. -- Sober Now Dear Sober: Thank you for your insight. Dear Dr. K: The news media say that we suddenly have an epidemic of addiction to prescription opioid painkillers. These pills have been around for a long time. What's changed? Dear Reader: Developing treatments that reduce or eliminate pain has been one of the great accomplishments of medical science. Until the past couple of centuries, our ancestors had no way to relieve the pain from a major injury, or from a disease like cancer. The first pain medicines, like morphine, were typically given by injection. But then opioid pain pills (and syrups) became available. Examples include hydrocodone (used in Vicodin), oxycodone (used in Percocet), methadone, codeine and morphine. These prescription drugs reduce the brain's recognition of pain by binding to certain receptors in the body. These medicines were initially used to treat acute, short-lasting pain from injury and longer-lasting pain from cancer. However, over the past 20 years the medicines have been increasingly prescribed to treat chronic pain conditions (like arthritis) other than cancer. Some people seek these medicines, however, not to treat their chronic pain, but to sell them to other people. Some of those people just enjoy getting high. Others have an opiate addiction from heroin, and use the pills to prevent opiate withdrawal. One problem with opioids is that a person can develop a tolerance to these drugs. That means that over time, a person needs higher and higher doses to achieve the same degree of pain relief. A second problem is that the body can become physically dependent on these drugs. That causes withdrawal symptoms if the drug is stopped. A third problem is that use of opioid painkillers is the biggest risk factor for addiction to heroin. Finally, an accidental opioid overdose (such as forgetting that you took some pills a few hours ago) can lead to death. I spoke to my colleague Dr. Wynne Armand, associate physician at Harvard-affiliated Massachusetts General Hospital, about the current opioid epidemic. She noted that much of the current problem stems from the fact that so many more of these drugs are prescribed today. Four times as many prescription painkillers were prescribed in 2015 in the United States than were prescribed in an average year in the 1990s. Health officials are working to educate health care providers on safe prescribing. They are also educating the public about the risks of opioid painkillers. Anyone who takes an opioid pain medicine should follow these guidelines to reduce the risk of abuse and overdose: * Store medication safely. * Never share your medication with anyone else. * Take the medicine exactly as instructed. * Ask your doctor if a lower dose might be an option. * Ask your doctor about other ways to manage pain. Many non-drug options can help. * If the medication is not working well, talk to your doctor. * Do not take overlapping prescriptions from multiple providers. If you suspect you may be developing an addiction, ask for help as soon as possible. This show provides a unique opportunity for the public to see exhibitors from traditional home improvement and remodeling contractors, landscapers, arborists, roofers and window companies, as well as finance and banking, health/wellness and photography. Several businesses will give spotlight presentations and attendees will be given a chance to win a special drawing at each presentation. There will be a Kids Zone with face painting and activities for children. New this year will be a raffle of various baskets and donated items from vendors. CALEDONIA A Caledonia girl was struck by a car while running across Douglas Avenue with her friend Sunday night, but she didnt suffer life-threatening injuries, according to Caledonia police. Officers were called at 6:13 p.m. to the intersection of Douglas Avenue and 4 Mile Road for a report of the 12-year-old being struck, Police Lt. Gary Larsen told The Journal Times. The girl, and her 13-year-old friend, were running across the road to get to Speedway gas station when an eastbound vehicle struck the 12-year-old, Larsen said. The girl sustained moderate injuries, not life-threatening, Larsen said, adding the girl is being transported to Childrens Hospital of Wisconsin for treatment. Both Caledonia girls were wearing dark clothing at the time, although the 13-year-old was using the flashlight app on her phone, he added. The sun already had set by that time. According to witnesses, the driver had a green light, Larsen said. The driver remained at the scene, where she was cooperative with officers, Larsen said. There are no indications she was driving while impaired, he said. No citations have been issued, he said, and the crash still is being investigated. MOUNT PLEASANT - A police sergeant arrested in Las Vegas three weeks ago on allegations of lewd behavior has resigned from the Mount Pleasant Police Department, according to Police Chief Tim Zarzecki. Jeffrey Gerrietts, 49, resigned effective Monday, amid an internal investigation by Mount Pleasant police into his arrest in Nevada. Gerrietts was arrested Feb. 9 after an undercover detective investigating sex-related activities allegedly saw him performing a sexual act in a hotel spa. According to the arrest report from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the detective was working undercover at the Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas after patrons complained men were entering the spa area and performing sexual acts in the steam room, shower and jacuzzi. The detective saw Gerrietts performing a sexual act in the steam room and again in the shower area. The male detective reportedly propositioned Gerrietts for sex and he agreed, according to the report. Gerrietts was arrested and cited for lewd conduct, police said; he was then released. Gerrietts, who could not be reached by The Journal Times for comment, was a second-shift sergeant with the Mount Pleasant police department. He had been with the department for 15 years. Gerrietts has twice run unsuccessfully for county sheriff: once in 1999 and again in November of 2010. Mount Pleasant Police Chief Tim Zarzecki said Monday that an internal investigation was started as soon as the department heard about the arrest. "Any allegation of wrongdoing will be investigated thoroughly and dealt with appropriately by my office," he said. RACINE A collection of local nonprofits is working to create the citys first community development housing organization in more than five years. If the effort is successful, it could help the city make better use of the federal affordable housing funds it receives, city officials said recently, and stave off threat of eventually losing some of those dollars. Each year the U.S. Department of Housing and Department Urban Development grants the city about $400,000 from its HOME Investment Partnerships Program. The program provides grants to states and localities to help create quality, affordable housing in their communities, often in partnership with local nonprofits. The grants fund a wide range of activities including building, buying, and/or rehabilitating housing for rent or homeownership. Despite major projects that have netted the funds from the city in the last two years the veterans housing project in Uptown received $439,000 in HOME funds last June and in 2014 the Homeless Assistance Leadership Organization was granted $319,000 in HOME funds to redevelop a blighted apartment complex at 2005 Washington Ave. the city has struggled to grant the funds in recent years, said Jeff Vitton, the citys manager of housing and community development. The city is missing the one organization HUD says the city should have when lending out HOME funds: a community housing development organization or CHDO. It also requires that at least 15 percent of the HOME funds a city receives be granted to a CHDO. A need According to HUD, a CHDO is a private, nonprofit, community-based service organization that has, or intends to obtain, staff with the capacity to develop affordable housing for the community it serves. Without the existence of a CHDO in the Racine area the last such organizations dissolved more than five years ago the city has faced the real specter of having to return some of the HOME funds it has received in the last few years, Vitton told the citys Community Development Committee recently. To help address that gap, city Community Development staff have been working with seven local nonprofits to help develop a CHDO, Vitton explained. The group recently held a convening meeting and are working to develop even more partnerships, he said. Concerted effort While the effort is still in the very early stages, Vitton said the group, dubbed the Racine Revitalization Partnership, is getting closer every day to achieving its ultimate goal. I cant guarantee you that is going to move forward, he said. I strongly suspect that it is, though. Community Development staff have already recommended that the committee earmark roughly $25,000 of this years HOME funds allocation for the development of a viable CHDO. This is being done to coordinate all of the different housing programs and housing related programs into one partnership for the most efficient use of the funds available, Mayor John Dickert said Friday of the effort. DOVER For the third time in a month, people have broken through thin ice on Eagle Lake. The most recent incident occurred just before 5:14 p.m. Sunday in front of Michaels on the Lake, 3101 Eagle Road, said Kansasville Fire and Rescue Chief Scott Remer. Four men were returning to the shore after fishing on the lake when two fell through the thinning ice, Remer said. One was able to pull himself out, Remer said, but the second man, an Illinois resident, couldnt because the ice kept breaking as he tried to extract himself. The ice was extremely thin. There was open water near shore, Remer said. As he was trying to pull himself up, the ice was falling out from underneath him. That man was about 150 feet from shore when he fell through the ice and was in about 3 feet of water, Remer said. The man was in the water for about 10 minutes before the rescue crew could pull him from the water, with 5 of those minutes spent in the water before Remer and his crew arrived at the lake. Remer said the fire station is about a minute from the lake. Both men declined medical treatment, but needed to be warmed. Last week, on Feb. 21, two all-terrain vehicles fell through thin ice on Eagle Lake. There were no injuries reported in the incidents, but the vehicles dropped to the lakes bottom. On Jan. 30, two men were injured, one seriously, in separate ATV rollover crashes on the lake. Remer warned that ice on the lake cannot support any weight. With the warm weather and quickly deteriorating ice conditions, stay off the ice, the chief advised. Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson has declined to rule out a future break with his party's presidential frontrunner, Donald Trump -- a shift from Johnson's past statements that he would back whoever the GOP nominates. Following Trump's reluctance to disavow a former Ku Klux Klan leader in a Sunday TV interview, Johnson told radio host Charlie Sykes that he's happy to disavow any form of white supremacy. Johnson, R-Oshkosh, said he's "praying" for leaders who won't be divisive and -- without naming Trump -- said he's demoralized by the current state of the presidential race. "It's depressing to see how this is devolving," Johnson said. Trump was asked Sunday about the support he has received from David Duke, a former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan. Pressed three times in a CNN interview on whether he would distance himself from Duke or the Klan, Trump declined to do so. He later said he does disavow Duke and blamed the exchange on a faulty earpiece. Sen. Ben Sasse, R-Neb., became the first Senate Republican to publicly split with Trump late Sunday, posting to Facebook that he will not support Trump for president. Asked by Sykes in Monday's interview if he'll do the same, Johnson said: "let's see how the process plays out." "I don't like demagoguery on any side of the political spectrum, and we have it across the political spectrum," Johnson said. Johnson previously has maintained he will support whoever the GOP nominates for president. The possibility of Trump being that nominee has grown in recent weeks as he racked up primary and caucus wins in the early presidential states of New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina. Johnson's fortunes at the polls this November almost certainly will be affected by his party's nominee. He's locked in a tough re-election fight with Democratic challenger Russ Feingold, who consistently has been favored in polls of the race. RACINE Although sheer numbers of violent or bullying incidents at Racine Unified School District high schools appear relatively low, the annual Youth Risk Behavior Study reveals that many students still view violence and bullying as problems on campuses. The district received encouraging returns from the recently released survey taken mostly by freshmen and juniors, in areas such as fighting, weapon possession and bullying on school property. However, 44.7 percent of students surveyed felt violence is a problem at their school and 52.8 percent of students felt the same way about bullying. Racine Unified Deputy Superintendent Eric Gallien said he was pleased with the data regarding incidents at school. This supports the data that we collect in our schools, Gallien said. These positive trends reflect the work our staff is doing to create positive school environments. In the previous year, students said, 9.5 percent taking the survey said they had been in a physical fight on school grounds, and 22 percent said they had been bullied. The physical fighting numbers have dropped since the 2011-12 iteration of the survey. Additionally, 4.9 percent reported they carried a weapon on school property in the previous month. Gallien singled out three programs Violence-Free Zones, Circles of Support and Positive Behavior and Intervention Supports as instrumental in lowering violence and bullying at Unified high schools. We have invested resources into implementing many strategies that are improving school climate, Gallien said. Unified School Board President Rev. Melvin Hargrove agreed with Galliens assessment. He mentioned the expansion of violence-free zones to four district middle schools and proper implementation of the PBIS program as causes of the lower numbers. I wasnt surprised, because weve put some effort into it, Hargrove said. When (PBIS) is actually implemented, it actually does work. As for the students saying violence and bullying are still issues at school, Gallien said the districts comprehensive three-year plan will ensure a safer school climate over time. We recognize we still have work to do, he said. This plan is already under way and our work is creating positive results. Jason Meekma, executive director of Focus on Community, a local substance-abuse prevention organization, said that although Focus mostly deals with alcohol and drug use, the high numbers of students reporting bullying as a problem concerns him. We know that bullying has a direct correlation to kids turning to substance abuse, he said. Those are alarming numbers to us. Although Meekma conceded that the numbers regarding specific incidents were down, he wasnt satisfied by them. The numbers that do exist are still a significant population within the schools, he said. Hargrove agreed that we have to continue to focus on our behavioral issues. He would like more information on fights that happen in the classroom and disrupt the learning of Unified students. I would like to see that were improving on that, he said. I am definitely satisfied where we are right now dealing with the violence. Although bullying and violence may be a problem, a majority of students reported having outlets to deal with those issues. According to the survey, 67.9 percent of students feel they belong at school, while 64.1 have at least one teacher or adult in their school that they can talk to if they have a problem. That information supports a major goal for the district, according to Gallien. We want to support the health and well-being of every student to ensure that they have every opportunity for educational success, he said. RACINE COUNTY Its not about the day, its about the marriage, but for one Racine couple, the date they picked to wed happens just once every four years. Melissa and Mick Verbeten are used to the slew of questions prompted by the revelation that they married on Feb. 29, 2012: Leap Day. I always get the question why did you do that as a woman? said Melissa Verbeten, 36, an optician and manager of an eyeglasses store. Why would I give up a gift every year? Monday marks their fourth anniversary, but the first anniversary they can celebrate on the actual date they wed. We may not have the date every year, but we still have the date I got to wake up as Mrs. Verbeten, Melissa Verbeten said Sunday. In non-leap years, they usually celebrate on March 1. It was about being married to each other, not a day. It isnt so much about an anniversary or being able to celebrate, she said. They married in Mexico after deciding on a destination wedding, she said, and they were required to be in the country for 72 hours before they married. The date just worked, she said. We both just thought it was hilarious, Melissa Verbeten said. It just fit our going away. It was not important to be traditional to us, she said. They hosted a reception back home on St. Patricks Day, she said, noting St. Patricks Day is Micks favorite thing in the world, next to me. On Saturday night, Melissa Verbeten and Mick Verbeten, 48, a forklift operator, celebrated their first anniversary by dining at The Melting Pot a first for them and spending the evening at a hotel in Brookfield. Sweet 16 Five more Leap Day birthdays from now, or in 20 years, Charles Constantine will be able to hit the bars to celebrate turning 21. Of course, thats when the Racine County Circuit judge actually will be 84 years old. Constantine turns 64 on Monday, his 16th Leap Day birthday. While people may find it difficult remembering some friends and family members birthdays, everybody remembers my birthday. That is, they remember every four years, he quipped. I dont mind it. Its kind of fun. This year I have a number of people whove offered to take me out to dinner, so I have a string of free meals planned, Constantine chuckled. You get to bask in the notoriety, and then get ignored for four years. Since he was a child, hes celebrated his birthday in non-leap years on Feb. 28, he said. He was born in February and is going to celebrate being a February baby, he said. Constantine said he isnt asked unusual questions about his birthday. They make a joke. You finally hit puberty. You finally get your drivers license, he said. Youre sort of carving your life out in four-year increments. But his birthdays cause some reflection, too. In terms of old people being young, you have a certain mental approach. I like to think Im at least a bit more mature then they are (at 16), he said with his trademark dry sarcasm. STURTEVANT An official from the states Department of Workforce Development will make a local stop today as part of an effort to promote career and technical education in K-12 schools throughout Wisconsin. In one of two stops in southeast Wisconsin, DWD Secretary Ray Allen will visit Gateway Technical Colleges SC Johnson iMET Center, 2320 Renaissance Blvd., in Sturtevant, 2-3:30 p.m., according to a news release from the DWD. Allen will also be visiting Bradley Tech High School in Milwaukee earlier in the morning, according to the release. The visits come at the end of Career and Technical Education Month, proclaimed by Gov. Scott Walker for the month of February in order to highlight and encourage those programs in public schools in Wisconsin, the release states. The months-long deadlock on the Racine Unified School Board in trying to select a replacement school board member finally required action by the state Legislature to resolve. In a one-time deal, the state Legislature directed that School Board president Melvin Hargrove decide the issue and gave him the power to fill the vacant seat, which he did by appointing John Koetz as the ninth board member. The Legislature also directed school boards across the state to come up with procedures to fill board seats on a temporary basis until an election is held when they come to such impasses in the future. We havent heard what other school boards are doing across the state, but one proposal brought forward by Unified School board member Don Nielsen for a random selection of three board members to make the selection seems curious at best and no better than a coin flip. The other option to go the route the Legislature implemented and make the selection the responsibility of the school board president if the board cant reach a consensus on a selection within 60 days is more straightforward and eliminates the randomness suggested in Nielsens proposal. Such a selection process would give added weight to the boards decision when it elects a school board president from among its members and that would be entirely appropriate. Hopefully, Racine Unified wont see a deadlock like it had last year in the foreseeable future. That made it difficult for the district to come to agreement and delayed action on a variety of issues facing the district. We would suggest that keeping this process simple and direct would better serve the board and the district going forward. Withering on the Vine The Demographic Time Bomb is Most Marked in Japan The demographic time bomb whereby the elderly population assumes a greater and ... Government Sexual Libertinism Coming to a Government School Near You Further to our piece yesterday on the promotion of sexual libertinism in government schools, we rep... Some Random Observations The Aftermath of Mass Pre-Mediated Murder A few observations on the murder of 14 people in San Bernadino and the wounding of many more see... Letter From the UK (About State Tyranny) Ta-ta UK freedoms! Miranda matter outs vindictiveness of wounded police state Annie Machon is a former intelligence of... 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JURIST Guest Columnist Ryan Stoa of Florida International University School of Law discusses the lessons from the Flint, Michigan water crisis When I teach Water Resources Law to my students, I often start each semester by juxtaposing two competing conceptualizations: water as a private commodity vs. water as a human right. The contrast demonstrates the diversity in approaches to water management, while foreshadowing the public-private tensions that permeate contemporary water law debates. Some students are attracted by the promises of privatization, including capital investments to upgrade infrastructure and the efficiencies of allowing market forces to allocate water where it is most valued. Other students push back, noting the fundamental human need for water as a justification for holding water resources in common, while citing the negative externalities that frustrate attempts to monetize water accurately. Both viewpoints are playing out in the wake of the Flint, Michigan, water crisis. Last month I wrote about the rhetoric following the crisis, noting that many critics were echoing the human right to water perspective. One Michigan state representative even proposed a bill that would declare water to be a human right. To many observers, the crisis was caused by water managers holding financial considerations above public health and environmental justice. Indeed, Flints decision to switch from water provided by the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department to water provided by the Karegnondi Water Authority was largely a financial one, as the move was projected to save the city $19 million over eight years. When the Flint city council voted to return to Detroit water, the citys emergency manager opposed the move on financial grounds. To many, water cannot be managed with such financial tunnel-vision, and a human right to water might rebalance water managers priorities. But in the last several weeks, another view has (re)emerged. Some have called for further privatization of water resources. To these critics, the Flint water crisis is a crisis of public governance, one that may have been avoided had a private utility been in charge. A private utility would still have received government oversight, while avoiding the messy political battles necessary to receive infrastructural investments. A private utility, furthermore, would not have enjoyed sovereign immunity, providing an incentive to avoid litigation arising from water contamination. So, which view is the right view? It is important to get this right, to extract some broader lessons learned instead of dismissing the Flint ordeal as flukey mismanagement. On the contrary, water infrastructure is crumbling across the country. The American Society of Civil Engineers gives our drinking water infrastructure a D+ grade, and despite capital investments not keeping pace with upgrade costs, Congress has been spending less and less on local infrastructure maintenance. The upshot of all this is that more and more pressure will be placed on water managers to provide safe, clean drinking water despite all these challenges. Just this week, the long-running water troubles experienced by residents of St. Joseph, Louisiana made headlines. Their water has iron levels 32 times higher than the US EPAs recommendations. State engineers blame the iron concentration on faulty infrastructure in need of repair. The small towns representatives, though, have done little to address the problem. In places where human and financial resources are scarce it will be difficult to promote sound water management, whether public officials are managing water resources directly or overseeing private operators. As long as infrastructure continues to deteriorate and little to no resources are allocated to address water problems, we can expect to see more cases like Flint, Michigan, and St. Joseph, Louisiana. For critics on both sides of the privatization vs. human right spectrum the Flint water crisis is Exhibit A for the need to reform. Unfortunately, water resources can be mismanaged in many different ways, whether privately or publicly held. Water users in Flint paid a staggering $864 a year for water. But a report by Food and Water Watch found that on average private utilities charge more for water than public utilities. Complicating the matter further are the many water management frameworks that constitute a public-private enterprise. Around the country there are examples of both public and private water providers working well, while others are struggling to meet the needs of their communities in safe, sustainable and equitable ways. Regardless of which end of the spectrum you are on, what should be clear is that water is a vital human resource, and to manage it well requires investment and expertise. In the face of crumbling infrastructure and shrinking budgets, it will be tempting for water managers of any utility to short-change the system in favor of short-term payoffs. Short-changing Flints water quality in favor of cost-saving measures was not a unique trade-off, but rather a circumstance public and private utilities will likely find themselves facing in the future. If Flint provides one lesson learned, then, its that water regulators may want to reconsider the costs and benefits of short-term water management thinking. The nations water infrastructure is in need of repair, and water resources are in need of responsible governance. There may be more than one way to accomplish those objectives, but it will be hard to do so without significant investments. Ryan Stoa is a Senior Scholar at Florida International Universitys College of Law. He teaches and writes in the field of natural resources law, and blogs at www.ryanstoa.com. Suggested citation: Ryan Stoa, Is Water a Commodity or a Human Right? Lessons from Flint, JURIST Forum, Feb. 29, 2016, http://jurist.org/forum/2016/02/ryan-stoa-flint-water.php. This article was prepared for publication by Alix Ware, an assistant Editor for JURIST Commentary. Please direct any questions or comments to her at commentary@jurist.org [JURIST] The Ontario Human Rights Commission (OHRC) [official website] recommended Monday that the Canadian correctional system put an end to solitary confinement [submission] in provincial jails. Chief Commissioner Renu Mandhane [official profile] stressed [Toronto Star report] that such segregation practices disproportionately impact mentally ill inmates as well as minorities and women. Though Mandhane acknowledges that solitary confinement can not be automatically eliminated, she believes that it should be used only as a last resort. By keeping a strong position, Mandhane hopes to force provincial jails to adopt new treatment methods that more effectively address prisoners mental health issues. The OHRC has presented several recommendations to the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services [official website], including keeping a more sensitive staff, increasing the oversight required for segregation and health care decisions, allowing opportunities to challenge segregation and statistically analyzing the correctional system. The legality of solitary confinement has also been an ongoing debate in the US, with many calling for comprehensive prison reform [JURIST podcast]. Last month US President Barack Obama announced a ban on the federal prison systems use of solitary confinement for juveniles [JURIST report]. In December New York officials announced a settlement agreement under which the state will overhaul its solitary confinement [JURIST report] practices and procedures. In September California agreed [JURIST report] to restrict use of solitary confinement based on a class action lawsuit filed by the Center for Constitutional Rights [advocacy website]. Last March the US Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit [official website] ruled [opinion, PDF] that Virginia could continue to automatically house death row inmates in solitary confinement. In June 2014 Colorado enacted a law [JURIST report] changing its traditional methods of solitary confinement by mandating psychiatric evaluations and therapy for inmates diagnosed with mental illness and qualifying for disciplinary intervention. [JURIST] A German court ruled Monday that 95-year-old former Nazi SS medic was not fit to attend court for criminal charges stemming from his time at Auschwitz. Hubert Z is accused of being an accessory to the murder of 3,681 people at Auschwitz. He was scheduled to go on trial Monday following a ruling [JURIST report] last December that he was fit to stand trial. A doctor determined [AP report] Sunday that Hubert Z suffers from high blood pressure, stress and suicidal thoughts, which, along with his age, make him too frail to stand trial. Because of Germanys privacy laws, Hubert Zs last name has not been released, but it is known that he was a death camp paramedic that operated as a sergeant in the Nazi SS from 1943 to 1944. The court scheduled the next hearing date for March 14. Earlier this month a German court began the trial [JURIST report] of a 94-year-old man who was charged with 170,000 counts of accessory to murder at Auschwitz. The 2011 conviction [JURIST report] of former Nazi guard John Demjanjuk may have emboldened German prosecutors to pursue cases against all those who materially helped Nazi Germany function. The most recent person imprisoned for his role in the Holocaust was Oskar Groening. Known as the accountant of Auschwitz, Groening was charged [JURIST report] in September 2014 as an accessory to the murder of 300,000 people. In July Groening was given a four-year jail sentence for his role at Auschwitz, which he said he would appeal [JURIST reports]. A retired lieutenant colonel and a former paramilitary were sentenced to 120 years and 240 years in prison, respectively, for sexual slavery and other crimes against humanity during Guatemalas Civil War and decades of armed conflict. Judge Jazmin Barrios found [El Periodico report, in Spanish] that the actions of retired Lt. Col. Esteelmer Francisco Reyes Giron and former paramilitary Heriberto Valdez Asij did irreparable harm. Reyes and Valdez were tried for murder, forced disappearances and the sexual enslavement of multiple women. The court also found that the womens husbands and children had been forcibly disappeared. Guatemalan authorities arrested 17 former military and government officials [JURIST report] last month on charges of committing massacres and other human rights abuses during the Guatemalan civil war. Government security forces have been blamed [AP report] for the vast majority of the 245,000 killings and disappearances that occurred during the conflict. The prosecutors brought charges against officials suspected of involvement in the 1982 massacre at Plan de Sanchez, Baja Verapaz department, in which soldiers and militia members tortured, sexually abused and killed local residents. The prosecutors also brought charges against an ally of President-elect Jimmy Morales and moved to have the immunity of office lifted for Edgar Justino Ovalle, a member and co-founder of the party of Morales. [JURIST] Court-appointed prosecutors in Japan on Monday charged three former utility executives with counts of negligence in relation to the 2011 Fukushima nuclear plant disaster. Tokyo Electric Power Company (TEPCO) executives Tsunehisa Katsumata, Sakae Muto and Ichiro Takekuro were charged for their failure to foresee and prepare for the tsunami in 2011. Prosecutors allege [Kyodo News report] that the executives negligence caused the death of 44 hospitalized elderly people and injured 13 soldiers who responded to the disaster. The three former executives have responded to the allegations by claiming that it was impossible at the time to predict the damage the 2011 tsunami would cause. At the beginning of this year, many of the nuclear reactors at issue in 2011 have been re-opened and have become operational. Japans court system [official website, in English] has been busy adjudicating issues relating to the 2011 Fukushima disaster. In August 2012 Japanese authorities opened [JURIST report] a criminal investigation into the power plant meltdown after more than 1,300 people filed [JURIST report] a criminal complaint against TEPCO for causing the catastrophe and the resulting radiation. The complaint came two months after an expert panel reported [JURIST report] that the disaster was preventable and was not caused solely by the earthquake and tsunami, but that officials did not act quickly enough to prevent the meltdown. In March 2012 a group of TEPCO shareholders filed [JURIST report] a USD $67 billion lawsuit against TEPCO also for failing to prevent the disaster. In August 2011 five months after the meltdown, Japans legislature voted to compensate those adversely affected by the incident by creating a fund for dispensing money to such victims. [JURIST] Louisiana abortion clinics and doctors on Friday filed a new application [document, PDF] with the US Supreme Court [official website] attempting to block a 2014 state law that would require three of the four remaining abortion clinics in the state to close. The law, which went into effect for the first time on Thursday after the US Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit [official website] allowed [JURIST report] its enforcement, requires [SCOTUSblog report] that doctors performing abortions have patient-admitting privileges at a hospital within 30 miles of the abortion clinic. If this law were to continue to be enforced, three of the four remaining abortion clinics in Louisiana would have to shut down, leaving only one remaining doctor to perform abortions in the entire state. The law is identical to a Texas law that the court will address next Wednesday in Whole Womans Health v. Hellerstedt [SCOTUSblog backgrounder]. The court will most likely have to rule on the Louisiana matter soon, as it has already caused two clinics to shut down in a matter of days. Abortion procedures and reproductive rights issues have been heated topics throughout the US. Last week the Indiana Senate released a bill [JURIST report] from committee that would ban abortions based on genetic disabilities and would also require aborted or miscarried fetuses to be cremated or interred. Also last week the Oklahoma Supreme Court reversed [JURIST report] a lower court decision upholding a law that restricts use of medication abortion drugs. Earlier this month Ohios governor signed [JURIST report] a bill that would purportedly cut state-funds to Planned Parenthood by $1.3 million. [JURIST] A Saudi Arabian court on Saturday sentenced a man to 10 years in prison and 2,000 lashes for expressing atheist sentiments in recent social media posts. The religious police of Saudi Arabia, who are in charge of monitoring social media in the country, found [AP report] more than 600 tweets that contained atheist rhetoric. Some tweets denied that God exists, while others more specifically criticized parts of the Quran and other aspects of the Islamic religion. The 28-year-old man has openly admitted to being an atheist. He proclaimed that he has the right to these beliefs and refused to repent. The court, in addition to the sentence, fined him 20,000 riyals (USD $5,300). Saudi Arabias justice system has drawn international criticism for alleged human rights abuses in recent months. Last month a well-known female human rights activist, Samar Badawi, was detained [JURIST report] and interviewed by Saudi prosecutors, allegedly for her involvement in managing a Twitter account that campaigned for the release of her former husband, a Saudi lawyer who is serving a 15-year prison sentence for activism. Also last month Saudi Arabian officials announced that the government executed 47 prisoners convicted of terrorism charges [JURIST report], including al Qaeda detainees and a prominent Shiite cleric who rallied protesters against the government. In November a Saudi Arabia court sentenced Palestinian poet Ashraf Fayadh to death [JURIST report] for apostasy; or abandoning his Muslim faith. Also, in November Amnesty International (AI) reported that Saudi Arabia has executed a record 151 people in 2015 [JURIST report], the highest number since 1995. In 2014 the total number of executions carried out was 90. AI said that almost half of all the executions carried out in 2015 were for offenses that are not considered most serious crimes under the international human rights laws. Saudi Arabia also reportedly continues to impose the death sentence on individuals under the age of 18, violating child human rights laws. The US Supreme Court [official website] on Monday declined to rule [order list, PDF] on a challenge to New Jerseys pension reforms filed on behalf on public employees of New Jersey, including teachers and state troopers. The suit was originally filed in New Jersey state court and argued that the state government is statutorily obligated to fully contribute to state pension funds. The New Jersey Supreme Court ruled last June that the state did not have to make payments into the pension system, and plaintiffs appealed [cert. petition, PDF]. Mondays decision allows that ruling to stand. The lawsuit was filed in 2014 when New Jersey Governor Chris Christie [official website] cut funding to a state pension plan. The state-wide pension plan had been subject to reforms in 2011 [materials] and it was established that both the state government and private individuals would increase payment into the fund for seven years until it reached the amount that was economically healthy. In 2014 Christie cut back [Law360 report] on the amount that the state was contributing to the fund, declaring that the state legislature could not unilaterally dedicated millions of the state&s dollars. [JURIST] Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan [official website] said Sunday that he rejects a court ruling that the detention of two journalists violated their rights. Two Turkish journalists were released [JURIST report] from Silivri prison early Friday after Turkeys Constitutional Court ruled [press release] Thursday that the detention violated their personal liberty, security, and freedom of expression and press. Can Dundar and Erdem Gul, employees of the Turkish daily newspaper Cumhuriyet [media website, in Turkish], were arrested [CNN report] last November for reporting in 2014 that Turkish trucks were smuggling arms to pro-Islamist groups in Syria. The Turkish government denied [AP report] the allegations and later made contradictory claims that the trucks were carrying humanitarian aid or ammunition to Turkish groups abroad. Subsequently, Erdogan filed a claim against the reporters and accused them of cooperating with FETO, a secret movement intending to falsely link the Turkish government to terrorist groups. Though Dundar and Gul have been freed, they still face charges and must stand trial on March 25. Turkey has been accused of violating the freedom of expression on numerous recent occasions. In December the European Court of Human Rights ruled [JURIST report] unanimously that a Turkish court order blocking access to YouTube violated Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights. In April a prosecutor in Turkey ordered [JURIST report] Internet providers to block social networking sites including Twitter and YouTube. In September 2014 Human Rights Watch [advocacy website] reported [JURIST report] that Turkeys ruling Justice and Development Party [party website] was taking steps to weaken the rule of law, control Internet and media and suppress critics and protesters. In April 2014 the Turkish government lifted a ban [JURIST report] on Twitter following a Constitutional Court ruling stating that the ban violated both individual rights as well as the freedom of expression. [JURIST] Virginia Governor Terry McAuliffe [official website] on Friday signed [press release] gun safety measures into law that will prevent domestic abusers and certain types of criminals from owning and carrying guns. The laws will still allow individuals to have concealed-carry permits from any state. However, the new laws will require domestic abusers to surrender their weapons with 24 hours of being subject to a protective order or face a class 6 felony [text]. The laws will be the strictest gun laws in the nation. Senator Bryce Reeves [personal website] stated Todays bill signing culminates a month of bipartisan work and good governance on behalf of all Virginians. The bills signed today protect Virginians constitutional rights and make our Commonwealth safer. I am proud to have carried Senate Bill 610 this year, protecting the rights of 421,000 law-abiding Virginians who hold concealed carry permits. I am glad to have the Governors support on this measure with his signature today. Gun control [JURIST backgrounder] and the Second Amendment continue to be controversial national topics, and gun awareness has risen in the wake of recent shootings across the nation. Last month US President Barack Obama announced executive actions [JURIST report] on gun control requiring those in the business of selling firearms, including those selling firearms at gun shows, to be licensed and background checked. In December the US Court of Appeals for the District of Colombia Circuit vacated [JURIST report] a lower court ruling that found that a DC gun law requiring a concealed carry permit outside of the home may violate the constitution. In October Maines revised concealed carry law went into effect [JURIST report] allowing legal gun owners to carry concealed weapons without a permit. Earlier that month the US Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit upheld [JURIST report] the main parts of Connecticut and New York gun control legislation that ban semiautomatic weapons and high-capacity magazines. In September the US Court of Appeals for the District of Columbia Circuit issued a mixed ruling [JURIST report] on DC gun laws, ultimately upholding six and striking down four controversial elements of the Firearms Registration Amendment Act and the Firearms Amendment Act of 2012. The laws were created in response to the Supreme Court striking down [JURIST report] a DC law prohibiting firearm ownership in 2008. 19 May 2010. The damning report into the systemic failure of the New Zealand Police to investigate child abuse allegations has just been released by the so called Independent Police Complaints Authority. It says what I have been saying since 1996. New Zealand, and the Wairarapa in particular, have absolutely unacceptable rates of child abuse, suicide, violence and other crime. New Zealand is one of the most dangerous places in the world for a child to grow up. We're building this site because we are sick of listening to journalists facilitate the opinionated chattering of idiots like Georgina Beyer, Gary McPhee and Christine Rankin, with their little programs and organisations, with little gimmicks like tying white ribbons, and bumper stickers saying "Let's Kill People" and stating the obvious, while they maintain the problem because it keeps them in a job. I made a complaint of child abuse about a man who came to my home and threatened me several times, finally smashing the door in and seriously assaulted me while horrified witnesses looked on. Corrupt local Constables have refused to charge the attackers in spite of all the evidence, like they refused to charge corrupt local bully Gary McPhee and his mate with the drunken violent home invasion and assault they boasted about in the "news" paper - The Wairarapa Times-Age prints propaganda, not news. We are publishing the truth. Corrupt local Constable Peter Cunningham is now prosecuting me for perverting the course of justice and escaping custody. The charges came up before Judge Behrens on 8th December and it was revealed that Constable Laura Rhymer, who will obviously commit perjury if she tries to state on oath the lies in her written statements - exactly like the defended hearings on the five charges arising from the public meeting were thrown out after it became obvious that the officer in charge of the case was going to commit obvious perjury - applied for leave two working days before the trial when she found out that it would be heard by Judge Behrens, QC, who is the same Judge who threw out the five other corruptly laid charges. She's no doubt hoping to get someone like Judge Susan Thomas, or the Judge who let the local cop's son off with 3 years for the murder of Paul Irons, or the one who let off Vizor and Sullivan for going out looking for a fight with a loaded gun and police issue weapons in Martinborough, discharging the gun and leaving one victim with a gaping head wound, after attacking a group of mainly 13 year olds. Wairarapa police have been called the withering arm of the Wellington region, they are lazy, incompetent and unbelievably corrupt. One local cop's son took a whole lot of methamphetamine with his mates and went on a perverted, depraved, murderous rampage. They tortured and murdered a totally harmless little man, the cop's son will probably be out in 3 years after perverting the course of justice, breaching his bail and contacting a Crown witness. Have another look at the photo of Andrew Dean Kupa Caudwell, and lunatic Gary McPhee, holding a poor crying baby, grinning insanely, and making the baby hold a bumper sticker saying "Let's Kill (Violent) People." MCPHEE IS A VIOLENT PERSON YOU IDIOTS! And what about local church minister Jenny Chalmers, who's stupid opinions about how wonderful McPhee is are so frequently published by the local propaganda rags - what hypocrisy! Not as bad as the "reverend" Bronwyn Barlass though - Bronwyn told the congregation her drunken depraved husband had died - she was a bit embarrassed when he turned up large as life recently wanting to move in with her again! Nothing has been done to date about the attack on me by Michael Murphy, or the attack on the innocent occupants of a local flat by Gary McPhee - outright corruption! Court Deputy Registrar Liz Harlepton and and Police Prosecutor Gary Wilson cheated on their respective spouses and shacked up together, and now sit in judgement in the Masterton Court - currently held in a caravan, perverting the course of justice over and over again. Evidence on this site includes several of the letters of apology from local police after they've been exposed as corrupt bullies and liars in various corrupt prosecutions against me since 2003. At least 4,000 security personnel drawn back As the security situation in Tarai improves following the end of border blockade and general strike, security forces are scaling back thousands of additional personnel deployed in the plains during the height of the unrest. CIAA files corruption charge sheet against ex-APF Chief Basnet The Commission for the Investigation of Abuse of Authority (CIAA) has filed a corruption charge sheet at the Special Court against seven Armed Police Force (APF) officials including former IGP Sanat Kumar Basnet. Costly cash For Nepal the objective should be to decrease the share of remittance in the national economy Food shortage stares Karnali folk Karnali zone in the Mid West that often faces food shortages has gone through a long spell of drought this year, raising fears of a famine unless help arrives. The region has not received rain since July. Former lawmaker Gurung passes away Former lawmaker Captain Rudraman Gurung, who envisioned the concept of Home Stay Tourism in Nepal to boost tourism in rural parts of the country, has passed away. Korean test to take place early The Korea Employment Permit System (EPS) in Nepal is preparing to conduct the Korean Language Test within July, earlier than in previous years. It is mandatory for candidates to pass the language test to be eligible for jobs in South Korea. Nepal, China agree on security matters Ahead of Prime Minister KP Olis visit to China, Nepal on Sunday agreed with its northern neighbour to strengthen the cooperation on various issues relating to security. Opium farming goes unchecked in Bara Opium cultivation has flourished in Bara district owing to the inability of the local administration to control the crop in the early stage. Panic in Lukla airport after Simrik Air bomb scare hoax The bomb scare onboard a Simrik Airlines aircraft in Luka Airport on Monday was a hoax, police confirmed. Rs23b spent on relief, rescue The government has released more than Rs22.78 billion in relief funding to the survivors of last Aprils devastating earthquake and its aftershocks, including the search and rescue missions. Salman Taseer murder: Pakistan hangs Mumtaz Qadri Pakistan has hanged the former police bodyguard who shot dead Punjab's governor over his opposition to blasphemy laws, officials say. Two held with red panda hides in Jhapa The personnel from the Central Investigation Bureau (CIB) of Nepal Police and the Area Police Office, Birtamod, have arrested two persons with two raw hides of endangered species red panda. UK to provide Rs 2.3 billion to implement E4D The UK government is to provide a grant assistance of USD 21 million (equivalent to Rs 2.3 billion) to Nepal for the implementation of the Evidence for Development (E4D) Programme. OWN A HOUSE AND PAY MONTHLY WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED: EMPOWERMENT TIME Blog Archive Blog Archive February (1) December (1) November (1) October (2) August (4) July (5) February (3) January (3) October (1) September (6) August (1) June (29) May (57) April (23) March (77) February (69) January (85) December (99) November (19) October (138) September (244) August (327) July (219) June (367) May (169) April (204) March (197) February (189) January (35) December (42) November (30) October (6) March (3) February (1) October (1) Peoples Development Party leader and former presidential contender, Dr. Abed Bwanika is heading to FDCs Dr. Kizza Besigyes home in Kasangati. Addressing journalist this morning, Bwanika says he wants to advise the former FDC leader on the current situation. Bwanika also blames Muslim leaders in the country for remaining silent, yet Electoral Commission Chairperson Eng. Badru Kiggundu who is a Muslim, continues to swear using Gods name to defend the irregularities that marred the elections and insisting it was a fair process. He says Muslim clerics should come out and explain what Islam teaches about lies. However the spokesperson of the Uganda Muslim Supreme Council, Hajji Nsereko Mutumba says there are other people belonging to other faiths who are running the Electoral Commission and the focus should not be on Dr. Kiggundu alone. Police has decried the increased use of social media for what they call spreading harmful propaganda intended to cause post-election violence. While addressing media today, the police spokesperson, Fred Enanga said that they have been monitoring social media activities and have realized that it is being used a tool to incite the public. He explained that as top gap measure police is set to interrogate all people generating such information and any media outlet that supports the spreading of such information. The force says so far two people have been arrested. I am a truth seeker, just a curious man trying to make sense of a crazy world... The Kingdom Poets blog is a resource of poets of the Christian faith, regardless of background; there is no attempt made to assess orthodoxy, but simply to present poets who speak profoundly of faith in God. No Yes, a light case Yes, two or more light cases One serious case Two or more serious bouts Vote View Results INDIANAPOLIS The Indiana State Department of Agricultures Indiana Grown initiative today unveiled the Indiana Grown Homegrown By Heroes program, which gives Hoosiers a new, tangible way to support local veterans with agriculture businesses. The Indiana Grown Homegrown By Heroes program gives local producers who have served in the military the opportunity to use an exclusively designed logo on their business signage and/or product labels. This will help consumers who wish to show their support easily identify products made by Hoosier veterans. Indiana Grown is proud of have members of the military as part of the program, and we welcome others to join, said Mike McKinney, director of the Department of Agriculture. With this new distinction, we are giving back and supporting those who have served our country, and continue to serve by providing quality agricultural products to Hoosiers. Homegrown By Heroes is a national program administered by the Farmer Veteran Coalition and has grown to include more than 250 members in 43 states, including Indiana. The program not only supports members of the military while working to address the veteran unemployment rate, which continues to exceed the national average, but also uplifts the agriculture industry. Im thrilled to be in my home state launching a new chapter of Homegrown By Heroes and celebrating the program partnership with Indiana Grown, said Sara Creech, owner of Blue Yonder Organic Farm. As a veteran and local agriculture business owner, I see great value in the Homegrown By Heroes program and look forward to seeing its impact on my fellow veterans and Indiana Grown members. To be eligible for the Indiana Grown Homegrown By Heroes logo, the producer must meet all Indiana Grown membership criteria, as well as: nave veteran, active duty, National Guard or Reserve member of the U.S. Armed Forces status, without regard to age or era of duty; provide a copy of a Department of Defense Form 214 or equivalent; have characterization of service of Honorable or General (under Honorable conditions); provide a letter of support from a commanding officer or designated representative attesting to their service under honorable conditions if they are an active duty member; and maintain 50 percent or greater veteran ownership of their business or operation and 50 percent or greater veteran management control. For more information on Indiana Grown and the Indiana Grown Homegrown By Heroes program, or to apply for membership, people may visit IndianaGrown.org. Journey's End My wife, Christina, died early Sunday morning. She was comfortable, she was not in pain, and she was not alone. In these last few days, ... A Personal Life Update I'm sorry to say that the news is not good. My wife is experiencing further metastases, suggesting (albeit not proving) that her initial... Seeking Alpha: ArcelorMittal Looks To Ride Recovering Steel Demand Back Into The High Teens As the world's largest steel producer, however steel markets go so goes ArcelorMittal ( MT ). That does not mean that the company cann... Seeking Alpha: iStar A Complicated REIT For Complicated Times The market often punishes complex stories, and iStar Financial (NYSE: STAR ) is no exception. While the company is organized as a REIT, it... Seeking Alpha : Should Investors Add Adtran After Fourth Quarter Earnings? Such is the state of business for companies that supply equipment to carriers like Verizon ( VZ ) like AT&T ( T ) that not missing nu... A New Round Of Bad News Today's visit to the cancer center brought with it more bad news. She will soon transition to a new therapy regimen. Although this regim... Even As China Looks Toward Automation, FANUC Seems Pricey Fanuc ( OTCPK:FANUY ) (6954) is a pretty remarkable company and a testament to the value of figuring out those things you do very well a... MSC Industrial Muddling Through A Tough Environment, But Margins Remain A Key Concern I've not been particularly gentle in my assessments of MSC Industrial ( MSM ) management over the years, as I think the company has be... Globus Medical Has Wobbled A Bit, But Still On Good Footing Since I last wrote on Globus Medical ( GMED ) in March of 2016 , second tier spine names have enjoyed a good run. K2M ( KTWO ), which I... WELLS, Minn. (AP) In a case with statewide implications for school discipline policies, the Minnesota Supreme Court will hear oral arguments today about the overturned expulsion of a southern Minnesota high school student who accidentally brought a pocket knife to school. United South Central Public Schools in Wells is appealing after the state Court of Appeals overturned the expulsion of Alyssa Drescher. The Supreme Court's decision could influence school suspension and expulsion policies across Minnesota. Drescher was expelled in 2014 for the final six weeks of her junior year. She said she left the knife in her purse by accident after doing chores on her boyfriend's farm. It was found during an announced locker search. Last year, the appeals court ruled that the district should not have expelled Drescher because she didn't willfully violate school policy and didn't endanger herself or others. Drescher's attorney, Andrea Jepsen, calls the decision a win not only for her client, but also for "a lot of kids who suffer disproportionately from wrongful dismissals." The school district appealed. In a statement, the district said the appeals court ruling "sets a dangerous precedent that limits the ability of school districts across the state to proactively address the presence of weapons on school property." Drescher's attorneys contend that because she had forgotten the knife was in her purse and didn't intentionally bring it to school, the act was not willful. And because the knife was in her purse in her locked locker, it did not pose any real danger, her attorneys argue. The district is asking the Supreme Court to interpret "willful" to include students who act with "careless disregard" and to decide a threat needs only to be possible not probable to meet the law's endangerment threshold. Drescher is now a student at Minnesota State University, Mankato, and does not plan to attend the Supreme Court hearing, her attorney said. If the expulsion is reinstated, Jepsen said it could hurt Drescher if she decides she wants to transfer to a new college or continue on to graduate school. The high court also will consider written arguments filed by several state education organizations supporting the school district's position. Jepsen does not expect a ruling for weeks or months. MADISON -- Exercising his constitutionally protected religious beliefs, a local man won the right to wear a spaghetti strainer on his head in his drivers license photo earlier this month. The story went viral on social media. Even Madison Mayor Paul Soglin posted a Washington Post story about the man to his Facebook page, adding, Why I love being mayor of Madison WI. Evansville lawyer Derek Allen, 32, represented Michael Schumacher after an employee at the state Division of Motor Vehicles refused to let him take his renewal photo with a colander on his head. In a letter to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and the DMV, Allen said Schumacher, as a member of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster and a practicing Pastafarian, should be able to wear his religious headdress in his photo. Allen cited state law that allows an applicant to wear a religious head covering in a drivers license photo as long as the covering is pushed from the forehead until a full facial image is shown. Pastafarians in Utah, Texas and Massachusetts have been allowed to don colanders in their identification photos, as have Pastafarians in Austria, Russia and the Czech Republic, Allen said. Whats more, the state of Wisconsin has already recognized the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster during the last several years when the church was allowed to add displays in the Capitol rotunda during the Christmas and Easter seasons along with displays from other religions, Allen pointed out. On Feb. 4, Allen got a response from the DMV allowing Schumacher to wear his spaghetti strainer. Wisconsin DMV Service Centers have been advised to recognize a colander as a religious head covering, if requested by one who claims it is part of a sincerely held religious belief, wrote Kristina Boardman, deputy DMV administrator. Schumacher, a farmer in the Madison area, is in his late 20s, said Allen, who went to school with the Pastafarians brother and contacted him after hearing about his DMV troubles. Allen was dumbfounded by the thousands of shares the story got on social media. Oh my God, what, the Kardashians arent doing anything? Allen joked. This is the only news to share? From his perspective, the story presents interesting constitutional, First Amendment, freedom of religion questions, Allen said, noting that he hasnt heard of any state not allowing it. Its never been litigated in a court. I think it would be somewhat of an interesting case if it got that far. WISC-TVs Susan Siman and Mark Koehn interviewed Schumacher via Skype from where he was vacationing in Costa Rica although they said he was on a mission, Pastalytising. Advertisement (1 of 1): 0:06 Schumacher said his faith is a real faith and that the only dogma we believe is that there is no dogma. He said they worship the Flying Spaghetti Monster who was boiled alive for our sins. When Siman said it sounded a little silly, Schumacher responded, You could say that feeding 1,000 people with seven loaves of bread and seven fish is a little silly. Freedom from Religion Foundation co-president Annie Laurie Gaylor said shes been following the irreverent, satiric religion for awhile. She called it a spoof that has a purpose, which is to test public forums and governmental preference of religion. Her organization has a virtual billboard, where users can declare and share their non-belief. A drop-down menu on the foundations website lists 13 choices including atheist, agnostic, freethinker, humanist, skeptic, infidel and Pastafarian. Meanwhile, Soglin said he has an above average interest in Pastafarians. He said he became aware of the Church of the Flying Spaghetti Monster about five years ago and frankly, found it amusing. The recent drivers license challenge is typical Madison, he said. Soglin even has a Flying Spaghetti Monster bumper sticker, although he said he hasnt put it on his car. The mayor has another connection to the Pastafarian in the news, and thats the fact that Schumacher took one of Soglins daughters to homecoming. Dont ask, Soglin said on Facebook. I am protecting her identity. Interstate 90 motorists are encountering new detours near the Dresbach Bridge construction site as the project enters its final season of construction, according to the Minnesota Department of Transportation. The northbound Hwy. 61 ramp to eastbound I-90 is closed. Motorists from La Crescent now take the ramp to westbound I-90 and take the Dresbach exit (273B) to eastbound I-90 to continue east into Wisconsin. This closure will remain into the summer. Westbound I-90 traffic heading to southbound Hwy. 61 toward La Crescent no longer needs to detour through the Dresbach exit. Now, westbound I-90 traffic heading to southbound Hwy. 61 exits just west of the river bridge (currently the exit into the rest area and the boat ramps). Motorists should follow the ramp to the bottom and turn left to cross the two bridges. Motorists are also asked to be aware of new traffic signal shortly after they exit to southbound Hwy. 61. The signal is located immediately after motorists exit for Hwy. 61 to travel toward La Crescent. It stops traffic after the exit to allow for traffic that has exited from westbound I-90 to turn south on Hwy. 61. Motorists should use slower speeds immediately after the exit and be prepared to stop. Its possible vehicles will already be stopped and queued up. Changeable message signs will be in place warning motorists of the changes as motorists adjust to the new signal. Additionally, an advance warning flasher is in place to further remind motorists of the changes at the exit. When it comes right down to it, family planning sometimes ends up in the hands of babes just ask Tara and Jason Etrheim of Onalaska, whose new daughter, Rowan Amelia, pushed the envelope to arrive a month early, on Leap Day. This definitely caught us by surprise, Jason said during an interview Monday, when Rowan was a smidge over 7 hours old and sleeping comfortably in mommys arms in her room at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse. Rowan, weighing in at a mere 6 pounds, 11 ounces and stretching the tape at 19 inches, also pulled a fast one on her paternal grandparents, Mark and Dorie, also of Onalaska, who are in Ecuador on a trip planned scheduled specifically around the due date of March 25. Shes very sad right now, Tara said of Dorie, who quickly volunteered to take the next flight home until Tara and Jason encouraged her just to wait until their scheduled return on Wednesday. Dorie wasnt the only one chomping at the bit to see Rowan. Big sister Sloan, whose third birthday was Feb. 22, got to see pictures of Rowan and was telling other children at preschool when her dad dropped her off Monday morning, After school, I get to see my sister, Jason said. Before Rowan made her early appearance, she was in the breech position, so Tara had an appointment for 11 a.m. Monday for a doctor to try to get her pointed in the right direction, Tara said. My water broke at 1:20, Tara said. I stood there in shock, wondering what to do. After she opted to wake up Jason, his initial assumption was I thought something was wrong with our other daughter, he said, until Tara told him Rowan appeared to be resetting the delivery clock. Indeed she did, being born via cesarean section at 4:19 a.m. Tara, who had delivered Sloan vaginally, said, They were two very different experiences. Asked how they felt about having a Leap Day baby, Jason and Tara said that hadnt sunk in yet. Were still in shock that we have a baby, Tara said. ST. PAUL Presidential candidates hoping to sew up support in the upper Midwest will be looking to the caucuses in Minnesota, one of 12 states that make up the Super Tuesday nominating contests. Here's a rundown of what a caucus is and what's at stake. HOW DOES IT WORK? It starts simply enough: Voters from each party gather at schools, community centers and gymnasiums across the state to make their pitches for their favored candidate, then cast secret ballots. The results are used to determine how many delegates each candidate gets in their quest for the presidential nomination. That's where it starts to get complicated, starting with differences between Republicans and Democrats because caucuses are run by the parties, not the state. Democratic voters will determine how 77 delegates are doled out, while Republicans are wrestling for 38. (For both parties, that's less than 1 percent of total delegates nationally). Candidates are awarded delegates based on their performance in each of Minnesota's eight congressional districts, as well as the statewide results. And it's not a winner-take-all affair. Even losers will score some points due to proportional awarding of delegates. For example, if Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders beats former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton by a 52-48 margin, he'd walk away with 14 of the 27 delegates that follow statewide results. Clinton would get the remaining 13. On the Democratic side, there are 50 total delegates up for grabs in the congressional districts, including nine in DFL strongholds such as the Minneapolis-centric 5th District. More Republican-leaning districts have as few as five delegates. Republicans' caucus rules are slightly different. Candidates split delegates based on their share of votes statewide and in each district. But there are just three delegates in each district. And in the unlikely event that a candidate reaches 85 percent of the vote statewide or in a district that candidate sweeps up all those delegates. Democrats are also vying for the attention of 16 so-called superdelegates, who are elected officials and party bigwigs who can do whatever they want at the national convention regardless of what happens on Super Tuesday. Most of those have already locked in for Clinton but could change allegiance down the line. HOW DOES MINNESOTA FIT IN? Minnesota is one of 12 states hosting preference polls on Super Tuesday, a day that could cement candidates' paths to the nomination or send them back to their day jobs. Just how much weight Minnesota will hold is unclear. For Sanders, contests in Minnesota and Colorado may be his last best chance since they are in a caucus format that plays to his advantage by attracting the most fervent political supporters. Though he lost previous caucuses in Iowa and Nevada, the more progressive and predominantly white voting bases this time around could give him a boost. Sanders' Minneapolis rally on Monday was his third Minnesota stop in the past few weeks, and he has battled Clinton on the airwaves with a barrage of TV ads. Clinton hasn't visited since a speech in early February, but she dispatched an army of surrogates to make her pitch here. Republicans haven't paid as much attention to Minnesota. Florida Sen. Marco Rubio's planned visit on Super Tuesday itself was to be his third this year, but no other candidates touched down. WHAT TO WATCH FOR? Turnout. Minnesota's Republican party is bracing for record numbers, citing high turnout in Iowa and other states driven by Donald Trump's appeal to nontraditional voters and the large field of candidates. The party expects it will easily pass previous caucus records set in 2008. Democratic party officials are hoping that putting the date of their caucus in the Super Tuesday mix generates higher turnout, too. But don't expect a record-setting year like 2008, when the choice between nominating the first black president and the first female candidate resulted in a caucus surge. MINNEAPOLIS (AP) Sen. Bernie Sanders brings his presidential campaign back to Minnesota just ahead of Super Tuesday. The Democrat holds a rally in Minneapolis today. The event is free and open to the public. Doors to the Minneapolis Convention Center open at 10:30 a.m. Sanders was in Minnesota last week for rallies in Hibbing and Rochester. Sanders stayed on message Sunday, offering his standard economic-focused speech to a crowd in Oklahoma City. Earlier Sunday on NBC's Meet the Press Sanders acknowledged that he was "decimated" by his opponent Hillary Clinton, who won by roughly 50 percentage points in South Carolina. Sanders says he's looking ahead to Tuesday's contests and beyond, expressing confidence that he can remain competitive. MADISON Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson refused Monday to promise he will back whoever is the GOP nominee for president, instead saying that he is praying whoever gets it is a "person of integrity, intelligence, ideas, and courage." Johnson for months, and as recently as last week, said he would support Donald Trump or whoever is the nominee. But he wouldn't go that far on Monday when asked about Trump not immediately disavowing the support of former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke. "I'm praying, let's see how the process plays out," Johnson said on WTMJ radio. "We have such enormous problems facing this nation. I don't like demagoguery on any side of the political spectrum and we have it across the political spectrum." Gov. Scott Walker, meanwhile, said he stood by a pledge he signed when he was still in the presidential race to back whoever is the eventual nominee. Republicans in Wisconsin and across the country were being forced to respond to Trump's latest comments related to the support of Duke and other white supremacists. Trump told NBC's "Today" on Monday that he did not hear or understand the question Sunday on CNN when he was asked about Duke's support, blaming a "very bad earpiece." He did eventually disavow Duke's comments on social media. Late Sunday, Nebraska's Ben Sasse became the first Republican senator to say explicitly that he won't back Trump if he wins the nomination. Johnson is locked in a tough re-election fight with Democrat Russ Feingold. Johnson's campaign spokesman referred to the comments Johnson made on WTMJ when asked whether he still planned to support whoever is the nominee. "I go to bed every night praying that our nominee is a person of integrity, intelligence, ideas, and courage," Johnson said in the radio interview. "This nation hungers for someone who can lead this nation, not be divisive." Both Johnson and Walker denounced white supremacists. Walker, who dropped out of the GOP presidential race in September and urged others to do the same so Trump could be defeated, recommitted Monday to supporting the nominee no matter who it is. "I signed a pledge and I'm a person of my word that I wasn't going to run against someone else and I wasn't going to support someone other than the nominee," Walker told reporters in Blue Mounds, Wis. Walker was referring to a pledge he, Trump, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and the other Republican candidates signed in September not to run a third-party campaign and to back the GOP nominee. Walker said he "probably" won't endorse anyone until just before Wisconsin's April 5 primary but "it's something we're watching." Compared to Trump, Walker said his views are more aligned with Rubio and Cruz. "While Trump is ahead, it certainly is not out of the reach of Rubio or Cruz, for that matter," Walker said. "A lot will depend on who stays in the race." Johnson's Democratic opponent, Russ Feingold, told reporters Monday that it was "shameful" that Trump didn't immediately repudiate Duke's supportive comments. Feingold has not endorsed Hillary Clinton or Sen. Bernie Sanders in the Democratic presidential race. He said Monday that either will be a "good candidate." WINONA, Minn. Winona Countys political parties are getting ready for Tuesdays caucuses, with both expecting higher-than-normal turnouts because of highly contested presidential nominations. Minnesota is part of Super Tuesday, when 11 states will hold caucuses or primaries to select presidential candidates and talk about other pressing political issues. Both of Winonas caucuses begin at 7 p.m. Tuesday. For the Republicans, the caucus will be held at Winona Middle School, for the Democrats at the Winona Senior High School. Lynae Hahn, Winona County Republican Party chairwoman, said that she expects record attendance of 600 to 700 people, three times more than 2008s turnout. Factoring into that, Hahn said, is the media coverage of the presidential candidates as they move toward nomination, which keeps more people aware of the caucus in general. I think the variety of candidates contributes, Hahn said. She cited a political climate that many Republicans are unhappy with as motivating them to come and voice their opinions. College-age voters and recent graduates are expected to attend in higher numbers again, Hahn said, similar to two years ago when they had a very high turnout of college students. They are still continuing to be involved, Hahn said. Neither the Republican nor the DFL caucuses require being a registered voter in the party, but both do require signing in. In the case of the Republican Party, it is pledge-like document saying that you have voted Republican in the past or if not, intend to. At the DFL caucus, signing confirms that you live in the precinct and also agree to the partys goals. Bill Harris, chairman of the Winona County DFL, said its stocking up on ballot papers, too. We are expecting it to be larger than normal, Harris said, approaching levels of 2008. That, Harris said, was the largest turnout ever and the state DFLs predictions indicate 70 to 80 percent of that years attendance. Harris also contributed it to the level of competition and interest in the nomination. Both party leaders said that reaching out to younger voters, and in general spreading information about the caucus to those who may not know or might be confused about the process, is one of their top priorities. The caucuses will also be choosing delegates to go to regional and state conventions. The legal tug of war between Apple and the Federal Bureau of Investigation over access to a single iPhone is shaping up to be one of the first great national disputes of the Digital Age. Some would say the core freedoms of speech, press and association, and the latest turn in the re-balancing of privacy against the needs of national security, are at stake at the dawn of the Digital Age. Others say no such lofty issues arise, and that this is a simple issue of a corporate citizen having to comply, like anyone else with a legal court order, in the interest of public safety even if its counter to its business interests. Even Microsoft founder Bill Gates finds the matter no easy call: He said a few days ago that the dispute may just involve a particular case in which Apple can only delay the inevitable giving the government what it wants. But Gates quickly noted in later interviews that while I do believe there are sets of safeguards where the government shouldnt have to be completely blind in national security matters, he also recognizes that ... clearly the government has taken information historically and used it in ways we didnt expect, going all the way back to, say, the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover. A judge has ordered Apple to assist in overriding an auto-delete feature built into an iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino terror killers. After 10 failed tries at guessing the phones password, the feature will automatically delete data stored on the phone. The FBI says that once the locking feature is disabled, it wants to force access to the phones data history, because that may have clues to a future terror attack, and could help determine if others were involved in the December mass shooting. Apple chief Tim Cook says the company will fight the order because the U.S. government has asked us for something we simply do not have, and something we consider too dangerous to create. They have asked us to build a backdoor to the iPhone, to write new computer code to override the auto-erase feature. News reports at weeks end raise the idea that Apple may employ arguments around a First Amendment doctrine involving compelled speech, while making a direct challenge to the legality of the court order issued under the 1789 All Writs law. In 1999, the Ninth Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals ruled that computer code is a form of protected free speech, though that opinion later was withdrawn for unrelated reasons. Apple could say that forcing the company to write new code to unlock the phone is compelled speech generally not allowed under the First Amendment, since the right to speak freely also necessarily includes the right not to speak, so declared by the U.S. Supreme Court in 1943. In that opinion, the court said school children could not be forced to recite the Pledge of Allegiance. The landmark ruling said that If there is any fixed star in our constitutional constellation, it is that no official, high or petty, can prescribe what shall be orthodox in politics, nationalism, religion or other matters of opinion, or force citizens to confess by word or act their faith therein. The doctrine was extended in 1977 when the court held New Hampshire could not force citizens to use a license plate with the state motto Live Free or Die. But those cases involved individual speech. Commercial speech generally has weaker First Amendment protection than, say, political speech and that area involving compelled commercial speech remains less well-defined in law, ever as courts have ruled on cases ranging from speech by attorneys to drug warnings to efforts to efforts combat sex trafficking and prostitution. One example: The government gained the authority in 2009 to mandate printed health warnings on cigarette packaging. But even then, a limit was set: purely factual and not controversial and graphic drawings later were rejected by a court. In a case involving labeling of packaged meat to indicate country of origin, a federal court supported the required wording because it advanced a compelling government interest in that matter, providing consumers with needed health and other information. The FBI already contends the San Bernardino phone information involves a compelling interest, the fight against terrorism. But Apple supporters say that the governments interest in this specific case is less than the compelling standard, and does not outweigh the standing and value of Apples promise to consumers of privacy for their data. In even broader terms, Apple v. FBI has echoes of and implications for other legal challenges and social standards over privacy, free press and even association rights. The proper extent of government access and control over vast amounts of data now readily accessible in the digital age, exposed by leakers such as former NSA contractor Edward Snowden and others, still is being argued. And with ready access to phone GPS tracking information, authorities here or repressive regimes abroad seeking to track down dissidents and reporters sources can gather unprecedented amounts of specific information on where someone is at all times and with whom they are meeting. Our laws on wiretapping and search and seizure of private information grew up in an age of locked doors, file cabinets and phones with wires in walls and have taken nearly a century to evolve. Apple v. FBI is only the first step in figuring out where new boundaries that protect our core freedoms will exist in a wireless, digital age. At 59, I do not consider myself middle-aged. The odds of my living to 118 are the same as those of my becoming a prima ballerina, a particle physicist or a breeder of miniature giraffes. As interesting as those possibilities are, theyre not going to happen. Im more than halfway through this lifetime, and while Im not exactly flipping through the Shrouds R Us catalog, Im also not kidding myself that if I eat Gobi berries, cut out dairy and start mainlining pomegranate juice, Ill be around to party like its 2099. And yet I remain fascinated by studies, books and articles concerning the discovery that human beings can now hope to live until age 120, if thats the sort of thing for which they hope. The first time I remember paying attention to the mega-old was when the woman in France, Jeanne Calment, died at age 122 back in 1997. (I thought she was lying about her age, being a Frenchwoman, and just attempting to keep her reputation for girlishness, but apparently they verified her records.) But now, according to Time magazines recent Longevity issue, its practically de rigueur to plan for ones perhaps-not-exactly-roaring 120s. One of the articles is How to be Wealthy at 100. I guess it includes detailed instructions on how to have been born rich because it just seems so much simpler that way, doesnt it? (I didnt get a chance to read that one yet.) But maybe it just focused on how to get a fair price for your collection of Hummel figurines or, more to the point, how to keep your family from circling your estate like hyenas at a kill. I did, however, study carefully the advice column, Long-Life Secrets from a Clam. At first glance Id misread the title and believed I would hear life-long secrets. Those, I thought, would be genuinely revealing. I imagined learning private details such as how to make my own pearls. Frankly, I also thought, now that these 500-year-old mollusks were finally opening up, theyd let us know why they were always so enviably and colossally gleeful day in, day out, that all happiness is compared to theirs. Was it salt water? Was it keeping their mouths shut? The truth, as many truths about apparently happy lives seem to be once you examine them, was disappointing. It turns out that to be as happy as a clam or at least the secret to having remained alive since Henry VIII was on the throne is all about protecting your proteins from damage. I thought it would involve more originality and more rigor, but thats probably why my levels of gleefulness dont match theirs. I wouldnt say to their faces that theyd perhaps prolonged existence past the point where it becomes wearisome I wouldnt say it even if they had faces. But it does make a person wonder. So I wouldnt be unduly saddened by the truly dull nature of the secret lives of bivalves, I swiftly turned to another article in Time, this one about how certain behavioral changes can improve the length and quality of life. Here, I thought, I can find a to-do list to invigorate my sense of well-being. Heres what I learned: Im supposed to fidget more. Scientists argue any kind of movement helps you live longer. Anything but sitting still can add up. I spent my youth being whacked on the back of my head with a wooden spoon for fidgeting. Now being antsy is a wellness program? In addition, mindful meditation will help us; Ive practiced mindless meditation for years, usually during meetings. I hope that version counts. (To my credit, I usually also fidget; I multi-task.) If I live as long as my oldest relative my great-grandmother died at 99, never having had a day of exercise after leaving the fields in Sicily at 30 and sitting down on a folding chair for the next 69 years Ive got some years in my account, if Im lucky. Tomorrow is promised to nobody, not even to clams. Just ask the ones I had for dinner last night. Finally, there are conflicting reports on whether or not people live longer if theyre happy. Thats a longevity challenge Ill happily accept: Why not hope for the best? Jon Pieper announced last week hell once again seek to unseat Rep. Greg Davids in the Minnesota House of Representatives. This is Piepers second campaign for the position, as he was unsuccessful in his bid two years ago. I want to be part of a forward-looking political party that works to improve the quality of life of the people of Fillmore and Houston counties, said Pieper, who lives in Lanesboro. I want to put people before corporations. I want to give a voice to our rural citizens. During his 2014 campaign, Pieper said the issue he heard about most was the lack of legislative support for our local communities. Given the opportunity, I will work to improve the quality of life of the people of Fillmore and Houston counties. I will lead as a small-business owner, father, husband and farmer. I will stand up for fairness and equality in government funding of our rural schools, cities and counties, he said. Other issues Pieper said hes interested in is closing the education funding gap between rural and metro-area schools, property tax burdens and creating job opportunities. I am heavily invested in southeastern Minnesota. My family is here, my small business is here and my farm is here, he said. I understand the priorities of southeastern Minnesota. Piepers announcement will force a primary election for the DFL nominee. Earlier this year, Thomas Trehus of Spring Grove also announced his intention to claim the District 28B seat. Man cited for shooting, killing cat with handgun A Feb. 16 confrontation with a cat ended with a misdemeanor citation for a Twin Bluffs man. At 2:11 p.m. the Winona County Sheriffs Department was notified that a cat had been shot at a residence near Twin Bluffs, chief deputy Chris Cichosz said. Upon arrival at the residence, a deputy found a dead cat by a pile of snow at the end of the driveway. Robert Oden Bradley, 60, told the deputy he found the cat by his garage acting strangely making loud, screeching, meowing sounds. He said he thought the cat was sick, Cichosz said. Bradley told the deputy he tried to scare the cat away by kicking snow at it, but the feline was facing him down, Cichosz said. Bradley said he went inside, retrieved a handgun and shot the cat five times, killing it. Deputies surveyed the neighborhood. No one claimed or identified the dead cat. Because the shooting took place in close proximity to a street and a number of residences, Bradley was issued a misdemeanor citation for reckless discharge of a firearm, Cichosz said. - Winona Daily News Alma man arrested, charged after drunken domestic incident Three officers took a disorderly man into custody who was yelling and damaging property during a domestic argument at an apartment in Alma, Wis., on Feb. 12. Buffalo County District Attorney Thomas Clark filed charges against 24-year-old Dale L. Owings of Alma, complaints accusing Owings of domestic abuse disorderly conduct, criminal damage to property and resisting arrest. Police said a woman and infant in the apartment were not injured. Owings was combative and resisted arrest once they got inside the apartment about 9:30 p.m. to the Sherman House Apartments, where they found punched holes in drywall, a broken phone and assorted other damages. Officer reports said Owings was intoxicated, with a breath sample registering 0.22 percent, nearly three times higher than Wisconsins legal limit. Owings has pleaded not guilty to all charges. - Winona Daily News Thousands of fish seized from Onalaska anglers house Authorities confiscated more than 2,500 panfish from an Onalaska, Wis., angler facing $24,683 in fines for exceeding possession limits. Stanley Paalksnis, 73, pleaded not guilty through his attorney to four citations Feb. 25 in La Crosse County Circuit Court. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources wardens Nov. 4 on Lake Onalaska saw Paalksnis keep 47 bluegills, according to court records. The daily limit is 25. Paalksnis claimed he did not catch more than the daily limit and wouldnt let authorities into his house without a warrant, telling a warden that he wasnt real law enforcement as he was being detained, according to reports. In his boat and house, authorities found 2,066 bluegills, 418 perch and 88 crappies, reports stated. The possession limits are 50 each. Paalksnis told a warden that for 20 years he was selling bags of fish for $5 in Chicago, reports stated. Prosecutors want the judge to revoke his fishing privileges and confiscate his 15-foot flat-bottom boat and two freezers seized during the search of his house. - La Crosse Tribune Dancer charged in fight at Jackson County club A Wausau, Wis., woman entered a not guilty plea on Feb. 22 after an altercation between two dancers at a Jackson County gentlemens club. At least four women were involved in the fight at Jimmys In-Between on Jan. 17 that one patron described as all hell broke loose, according to the criminal complaint filed in Jackson County Circuit Court. Helen D. Slater, 25, was charged with disorderly conduct for reportedly causing the early morning disturbance that began over missing clothing and tip money. A number of people involved reported injuries but declined medical attention. Authorities were called at about 2 a.m. The female manager said one of the performers said her property was missing, and when the manager went to the dressing room, she saw Slater yelling and then try to hit the other performer. The manager said she tried to step between the two women, but then Slater who goes by the stage name Milan kicked the manager to the floor and started choking her, according to the complaint. Several people came to stop the fight. A male patron said he saw Slater try to hit the manager and that he may have been hit in the head trying to break up the fight. Another performer reported seeing Slater grab the victim performer by the hair and hit her and also try to hit the bartender. The victim performer said her head hurt, according to the complaint. A fourth performer stated the incident all began when a fifth performer said her leg warmers, cellphone and tip bag with $50 to $60 was missing. 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(3) Nov 02 (4) Nov 01 (4) Oct 31 (3) Oct 30 (4) Oct 29 (3) Oct 28 (4) Oct 27 (4) Oct 26 (4) Oct 25 (4) Oct 24 (5) Oct 23 (4) Oct 22 (4) Oct 21 (3) Oct 20 (3) Oct 19 (4) Oct 18 (3) Oct 17 (3) Oct 16 (4) Oct 15 (4) Oct 14 (4) Oct 13 (4) Oct 12 (5) Oct 11 (3) Oct 10 (5) Oct 09 (5) Oct 08 (5) Oct 07 (6) Oct 06 (3) Oct 05 (3) Oct 04 (5) Oct 03 (3) Oct 02 (4) Oct 01 (3) Sep 30 (4) Sep 29 (4) Sep 28 (5) Sep 27 (5) Sep 26 (5) Sep 25 (3) Sep 24 (5) Sep 23 (5) Sep 22 (3) Sep 21 (4) Sep 20 (4) Sep 19 (3) Sep 18 (3) Sep 17 (4) Sep 16 (4) Sep 15 (3) Sep 14 (4) Sep 13 (4) Sep 12 (5) Sep 11 (4) Sep 10 (3) Sep 09 (4) Sep 08 (5) Sep 07 (4) Sep 06 (4) Sep 05 (5) Sep 04 (4) Sep 03 (3) Sep 02 (4) Sep 01 (3) Aug 31 (5) Aug 30 (4) Aug 29 (6) Aug 28 (6) Aug 27 (6) Aug 26 (5) Aug 25 (4) Aug 24 (4) Aug 23 (7) Aug 22 (4) Aug 21 (6) Aug 20 (3) Aug 19 (7) Aug 18 (4) Aug 17 (3) Aug 16 (4) Aug 15 (3) Aug 14 (3) Aug 13 (6) Aug 12 (6) Aug 11 (4) Aug 10 (4) Aug 09 (3) Aug 08 (5) Aug 07 (4) Aug 06 (3) Aug 05 (4) Aug 04 (4) Aug 03 (6) Aug 02 (3) Aug 01 (3) Jul 31 (3) Jul 30 (3) Jul 29 (5) Jul 28 (5) Jul 27 (4) Jul 26 (6) Jul 25 (4) Jul 24 (3) Jul 23 (6) Jul 22 (3) Jul 21 (5) Jul 20 (4) Jul 19 (3) Jul 18 (3) Jul 17 (4) Jul 16 (6) Jul 15 (4) Jul 14 (4) Jul 13 (4) Jul 12 (4) Jul 11 (3) Jul 10 (5) Jul 09 (4) Jul 08 (3) Jul 07 (4) Jul 06 (3) Jul 05 (3) Jul 04 (3) Jul 03 (3) Jul 02 (4) Jul 01 (4) Jun 30 (4) Jun 29 (3) Jun 28 (4) Jun 27 (4) Jun 26 (3) Jun 25 (4) Jun 24 (5) Jun 23 (6) Jun 22 (4) Jun 21 (5) Jun 20 (3) Jun 19 (4) Jun 18 (3) Jun 17 (4) Jun 16 (4) Jun 15 (4) Jun 14 (4) Jun 13 (3) Jun 12 (5) Jun 11 (5) Jun 10 (6) Jun 09 (5) Jun 08 (4) Jun 07 (4) Jun 06 (4) Jun 05 (3) Jun 04 (5) Jun 03 (3) Jun 02 (3) Jun 01 (4) May 31 (4) May 30 (3) May 29 (3) May 28 (5) May 27 (3) May 26 (4) May 25 (3) May 24 (6) May 23 (4) May 22 (5) May 21 (5) May 20 (4) May 19 (5) May 18 (6) May 17 (6) May 16 (4) May 15 (4) May 14 (5) May 13 (4) May 12 (3) May 11 (4) May 10 (5) May 09 (2) May 08 (4) May 07 (4) May 06 (4) May 05 (4) May 04 (4) May 03 (3) May 02 (3) May 01 (4) Apr 30 (4) Apr 29 (6) Apr 28 (6) Apr 27 (5) Apr 26 (5) Apr 25 (4) Apr 24 (6) Apr 23 (6) Apr 22 (5) Apr 21 (6) Apr 20 (4) Apr 19 (4) Apr 18 (4) Apr 17 (7) Apr 16 (5) Apr 15 (4) Apr 14 (8) Apr 13 (5) Apr 12 (3) Apr 11 (3) Apr 10 (4) Apr 09 (6) Apr 08 (6) Apr 07 (5) Apr 06 (4) Apr 05 (3) Apr 04 (4) Apr 03 (6) Apr 02 (6) Apr 01 (3) Mar 31 (7) Mar 30 (6) Mar 29 (8) Mar 28 (5) Mar 27 (6) Mar 26 (8) Mar 25 (5) Mar 24 (5) Mar 23 (8) Mar 22 (5) Mar 21 (6) Mar 20 (5) Mar 19 (5) Mar 18 (4) Mar 17 (4) Mar 16 (5) Mar 15 (6) Mar 14 (5) Mar 13 (6) Mar 12 (4) Mar 11 (4) Mar 10 (3) Mar 09 (7) Mar 08 (4) Mar 07 (4) Mar 06 (4) Mar 05 (3) Mar 04 (4) Mar 03 (6) Mar 02 (3) Mar 01 (5) Feb 28 (7) Feb 27 (6) Feb 26 (8) Feb 25 (5) Feb 24 (8) Feb 23 (7) Feb 22 (8) Feb 21 (7) Feb 20 (7) Feb 19 (7) Feb 18 (5) Feb 17 (4) Feb 16 (6) Feb 15 (6) Feb 14 (5) Feb 13 (5) Feb 12 (7) Feb 11 (6) Feb 10 (7) Feb 09 (4) Feb 08 (6) Feb 07 (5) Feb 06 (5) Feb 05 (4) Feb 04 (4) Feb 03 (4) Feb 02 (5) Feb 01 (3) Jan 31 (5) Jan 30 (3) Jan 29 (6) Jan 28 (4) Jan 27 (3) Jan 26 (5) Jan 25 (4) Jan 24 (4) Jan 23 (5) Jan 22 (7) Jan 21 (6) Jan 20 (6) Jan 19 (3) Jan 18 (6) Jan 17 (5) Jan 16 (7) Jan 15 (4) Jan 14 (7) Jan 13 (5) Jan 12 (7) Jan 11 (5) Jan 10 (4) Jan 09 (4) Jan 08 (7) Jan 07 (3) Jan 06 (5) Jan 05 (5) Jan 04 (4) Jan 03 (4) Jan 02 (3) Jan 01 (6) Dec 31 (5) Dec 30 (3) Dec 29 (4) Dec 28 (7) Dec 27 (4) Dec 26 (4) Dec 25 (6) Dec 24 (5) Dec 23 (5) Dec 22 (5) Dec 21 (3) Dec 20 (3) Dec 19 (4) Dec 18 (4) Dec 17 (6) Dec 16 (5) Dec 15 (4) Dec 14 (5) Dec 13 (4) Dec 12 (5) Dec 11 (7) Dec 10 (4) Dec 09 (3) Dec 08 (5) Dec 07 (6) Dec 06 (4) Dec 05 (4) Dec 04 (7) Dec 03 (6) Dec 02 (4) Dec 01 (4) Nov 30 (6) Nov 29 (4) Nov 28 (4) Nov 27 (7) Nov 26 (3) Nov 25 (5) Nov 24 (4) Nov 23 (4) Nov 22 (4) Nov 21 (7) Nov 20 (5) Nov 19 (4) Nov 18 (5) Nov 17 (6) Nov 16 (7) Nov 15 (5) Nov 14 (5) Nov 13 (5) Nov 12 (4) Nov 11 (7) Nov 10 (6) Nov 09 (7) Nov 08 (4) Nov 07 (9) Nov 06 (7) Nov 05 (7) Nov 04 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(2) Feb 11 (1) Feb 10 (2) Feb 09 (1) Feb 08 (1) Feb 07 (1) Feb 06 (1) Feb 05 (5) Feb 03 (1) Feb 02 (1) Feb 01 (1) Jan 31 (4) Jan 30 (4) Jan 29 (4) Jan 28 (2) Jan 27 (5) Jan 26 (5) Jan 25 (5) Jan 24 (3) Jan 23 (4) Jan 22 (4) Jan 21 (3) Jan 20 (3) Jan 19 (4) Jan 18 (3) Jan 17 (2) Jan 16 (4) Jan 15 (3) Jan 14 (5) Jan 13 (5) Jan 12 (5) Jan 11 (4) Jan 10 (3) Jan 09 (5) Jan 08 (5) Jan 07 (4) Jan 06 (3) Jan 05 (4) Jan 04 (4) Jan 03 (6) Jan 02 (3) Jan 01 (4) Dec 31 (4) Dec 30 (4) Dec 29 (5) Dec 28 (5) Dec 27 (4) Dec 26 (4) Dec 25 (4) Dec 24 (1) Dec 23 (4) Dec 22 (3) Dec 21 (5) Dec 20 (5) Dec 19 (4) Dec 18 (4) Dec 17 (5) Dec 16 (4) Dec 15 (6) Dec 14 (4) Dec 13 (4) Dec 12 (5) Dec 11 (5) Dec 10 (4) Dec 09 (5) Dec 08 (4) Dec 07 (4) Dec 06 (5) Dec 05 (4) Dec 04 (4) Dec 03 (4) Dec 02 (3) Dec 01 (3) Nov 30 (4) Nov 29 (4) Nov 28 (5) Nov 27 (4) Nov 26 (4) Nov 25 (3) Nov 24 (5) Nov 23 (4) Nov 22 (4) Nov 21 (4) Nov 20 (4) Nov 19 (5) Nov 18 (4) Nov 17 (4) Nov 16 (3) Nov 15 (5) Nov 14 (3) Nov 13 (4) Nov 12 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(3) Aug 12 (4) Aug 11 (3) Aug 10 (3) Aug 09 (4) Aug 08 (2) Aug 07 (2) Aug 06 (2) Aug 05 (2) Aug 04 (2) Aug 03 (3) Aug 02 (4) Aug 01 (3) Jul 31 (2) Jul 30 (5) Jul 29 (3) Jul 28 (3) Jul 27 (3) Jul 26 (3) Jul 25 (6) Jul 24 (3) Jul 23 (4) Jul 22 (4) Jul 21 (4) Jul 20 (4) Jul 19 (4) Jul 18 (4) Jul 17 (4) Jul 16 (4) Jul 15 (5) Jul 14 (3) Jul 13 (4) Jul 12 (4) Jul 11 (5) Jul 10 (5) Jul 09 (2) Jul 08 (2) Jul 07 (3) Jul 06 (2) Jul 05 (2) Jul 04 (3) Jul 03 (4) Jul 02 (5) Jul 01 (3) Jun 30 (2) Jun 29 (3) Jun 28 (4) Jun 27 (4) Jun 26 (5) Jun 25 (4) Jun 24 (5) Jun 23 (3) Jun 22 (4) Jun 21 (2) Jun 20 (4) Jun 19 (3) Jun 18 (3) Jun 17 (1) Jun 16 (5) Jun 15 (5) Jun 14 (2) Jun 13 (5) Jun 12 (4) Jun 11 (3) Jun 10 (2) Jun 09 (2) Jun 08 (2) Jun 07 (2) Jun 06 (2) Jun 05 (2) Jun 04 (2) Jun 03 (2) Jun 02 (4) Jun 01 (3) May 31 (4) May 30 (5) May 29 (3) May 28 (3) May 27 (3) May 26 (4) May 25 (4) May 24 (2) May 23 (4) May 22 (4) May 21 (5) May 20 (6) May 19 (4) May 18 (3) May 17 (4) May 16 (5) May 15 (6) May 14 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(3) Feb 11 (3) Feb 10 (4) Feb 09 (4) Feb 08 (3) Feb 07 (4) Feb 06 (3) Feb 05 (3) Feb 04 (3) Feb 03 (5) Feb 02 (4) Feb 01 (3) Jan 31 (3) Jan 30 (3) Jan 29 (4) Jan 28 (3) Jan 27 (2) Jan 26 (4) Jan 25 (3) Jan 24 (5) Jan 23 (4) Jan 22 (4) Jan 21 (3) Jan 20 (3) Jan 19 (6) Jan 18 (4) Jan 17 (3) Jan 16 (4) Jan 15 (3) Jan 14 (4) Jan 13 (3) Jan 12 (6) Jan 11 (4) Jan 10 (4) Jan 09 (3) Jan 08 (4) Jan 07 (3) Jan 06 (4) Jan 05 (3) Jan 04 (4) Jan 03 (5) Jan 02 (4) Jan 01 (3) Dec 31 (2) Dec 30 (2) Dec 29 (2) Dec 28 (3) Dec 27 (3) Dec 26 (2) Dec 25 (2) Dec 24 (3) Dec 23 (3) Dec 22 (3) Dec 21 (3) Dec 20 (4) Dec 19 (4) Dec 18 (5) Dec 17 (3) Dec 16 (3) Dec 15 (3) Dec 14 (3) Dec 13 (3) Dec 12 (2) Dec 11 (6) Dec 10 (4) Dec 09 (4) Dec 08 (6) Dec 07 (5) Dec 06 (3) Dec 05 (3) Dec 04 (4) Dec 03 (3) Dec 02 (3) Dec 01 (4) Nov 30 (2) Nov 29 (3) Nov 28 (3) Nov 27 (2) Nov 26 (3) Nov 25 (5) Nov 24 (4) Nov 23 (6) Nov 22 (5) Nov 21 (4) Nov 20 (2) Nov 19 (5) Nov 18 (7) Nov 17 (5) Nov 16 (4) Nov 15 (6) Nov 14 (3) Nov 13 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Monday, February 29, 2016 Federal and state securities regulation is the personification of what conservatives refer to pejoratively as big government. Businesses cant raise money unless they first get permission from the government and, in many states, that permission turns on a regulators determination of whether the offer is fair. The cost of compliance is a serious drag on capital formation, especially small business capital formation. Federal and state securities laws also generate a tremendous amount of plaintiffs litigation, another conservative bugaboo. Weve seen conservative efforts at the federal level to limit securities regulation and litigationfor example, the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act and the JOBS Act. But, unless things are going on at the state level that Im not aware of, there doesnt seem to be a corresponding effort at the state level. Thats surprising, because the Republicans have greater control at the state level than they do at the federal level. There are 31 Republican governors and the Republicans control both chambers of the state legislature in 30 states, plus Nebraskas unicameral legislature. Republicans control both the governorship and the state legislature in 24 states. Why hasnt there been a push to change state securities regulation? Are Republicans satisfied with state regulation? If so, thats surprising because Rutheford Campbell and others have pointed to state securities regulation as a major drag on small business capital formation. Are politicians at the state level not as anti-government? Or is there something else going on that Im missing? Im not arguing that state securities laws should be limited (at least, not in this post). Im just curious why it hasnt happened. https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/business_law/2016/02/why-havent-conservative-states-tried-to-roll-back-state-securities-laws.html Monday, February 29, 2016 There are three ways that the State can commit a Brady violation: 1. The State completely fails to disclose material exculpatory evidence to the defense. See Brady v. Maryland. 2. The State makes a misleading disclosure of material exculpatory evidence. See Ware v. State, 702 A.2d 699 (Md. 1997) ("If the failure to make any response is rarely excusable, then certainly a misleading response is seldom, if ever, excusable as well.") 3. The State makes an untimely disclosure of material exculpatory evidence. See infra. In Adnan's case, Justin Brown is claiming that the State made a misleading disclosure of the AT&T cover sheet, with that cover sheet constituting material exculpatory evidence. As the Court of Appeals of Maryland noted in Ware, misleading disclosures of material exculpatory evidence will seldom, if ever, be excusable. That said, the Ware court neither fleshed out the definition of a misleading response/disclosure nor gave any indication of when such a response/disclosure might be excusable under Brady. In this post, I will argue that Maryland courts should use the same criterion for determining category 2 (misleading disclosure) violations that they use for determining category 3 (late disclosure) violations. In United States v. Smith Grading and Paving, Inc., 760 F.2d 527, 532 (4th Cir.), four defendants were charged in connection with bid rigging a sewer construction project in Lancaster County, South Carolina. After they were convicted, they appealed, claiming, inter alia, that they were denied due process of law because the government did not disclose evidence provided by the engineer who originally estimated the cost of the Lancaster County sewer project. On cross-examination, the engineer testified that he deliberately under-estimated the project's cost and expected the bids to exceed his estimate. Prior to his testimony, the defendants were unaware of the information. They argue that the testimony was exculpatory because it illustrates that their bids were not excessively high and, therefore, should have been disclosed under Brady. In rejecting this argument, the Fourth Circuit concluded that Even if we assume that the engineer's testimony is exculpatory, its belated disclosure does not constitute reversible error. No due process violation occurs as long as Brady material is disclosed to a defendant in time for its effective use at trial....In this case, the exculpatory information was put before the jury during cross-examination of the very first trial witness. The information was available for use in the defendant's cross-examination of all further government witnesses as well as in the defendants' case in chief. The disclosure of this exculpatory evidence, at trial, does not rise to the level of a constitutional violation. Given that Maryland is part of the Fourth Circuit, it's unsurprising that the Court of Special Appeals of Maryland cited to Smith Grading in its recent opinion in Paiz v. State. It's also unsurprising that (1) the State cited Smith Grading in its brief opposing Adnan's direct appeal on the Benaroya disclosure; and (2) the Court of Special Appeals cited Smith Grading in its own opinion denying Adnan relief. In other cases, however, courts have applied the same test used in Smith Grading to grant defendants Brady relief based on late disclosures. For instance, in Hamric v. Bailey, Bonnie June Hamric, was found guilty of second degree murder for shooting Glenn E. Winters. At trial, after the start of jury deliberations, the defense learned of a report regarding the victim's clothes after a laboratory examination that contradicted the State's narrative. After Hamric was convicted, she appealed, claiming that this late disclosure constituted a Brady violation. The Fourth Circuit agreed, conclud[ing] that disclosure of the undisclosed evidence after the jury had retired was too late to overcome the requirements of Brady. If it is incumbent on the State to disclose evidence favorable to an accused, manifestly, that disclosure to be effective must be made at a time when the disclosure would be of value to the accused. Possibly the jury's deliberations could be interrupted for the purpose of taking additional testimony, but the potential prejudicial effect to an accused of such an extraordinary procedure persuades us that Brady, to be given vitality, must be interpreted to require disclosure, at least, before the taking of the accused's evidence is complete. These cases, then, seem to set forth a pretty clear test for determining whether a late disclosure constitutes a Brady violation. If, as in Smith Grading, the late disclosure does not prevent defense counsel from making effective use of the evidence at trial, there is no Brady violation. If, as in Hamric, the late disclosure does prevent defense counsel from making effective use of the evidence at trial, there is a Brady violation. The thesis of this post is that this same test should apply to determine whether there was a sufficiently misleading disclosure to create a Brady violation. If a disclosure would not prevent a reasonable* attorney from making effective use of the evidence at trial, the disclosure was not misleading enough to constitute a Brady violation. If, however, a disclosure would prevent a reasonable attorney from making effective use of the evidence at trial, the disclosure was misleading enough to constitute a Brady violation. So, what does this mean in terms of Adnan's case? When Justin Brown claimed that Cristina Gutierrez was ineffective in failing to use the AT&T cover sheet to challenge the cell tower evidence at trial, the Deputy Attorney General responded that (1) Exhibit #31 was not a Subscriber Activity Report; (2) the cover sheet did not apply to Exhibit #31; and (3) Gutierrez would have risked looking foolish and disingenuous if she had tried to use the cover sheet at trial. In other words, the Deputy Attorney General argued that a reasonable attorney would not have tried to use the cover sheet at trial based upon the State's disclosures. As such, the factual predicate for a Brady claim based upon a misleading disclosure has been established. ___________________________ *You'll note that I added the word "reasonable." I did this to synch this Brady rule with the test for ineffective assistance of counsel. -CM https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/evidenceprof/2016/02/when-disclosure-has-comelatein-the-game-this-court-has-stated-that-no-due-process-violation-occurs-as-long-asbradymater.html Monday, February 29, 2016 For decades, the LSAT has virtually been the only admissions test used by law schools when it comes to evaluating prospective students. The test has been praised for it's ability to predict first year success but has also been the target of withering attacks on the narrow focus of the skills being tested. In response to those complaints, the University of Arizona School of Law has decided to ditch their LSAT only policy and accept scores from the GRE, a test used primarily for non-law graduate schools. Arizona has stated that they have studies showing that the GRE is as good a predictor of law school success which allows them to use it under ABA accreditation rules. However, the school would be the only ABA accredited school in the nation to not rely on the LSAT which makes the results of this trial run important for other schools considering a change. It will be very interesting to see how this experiment turns out due to the implications it could have for law schools everywhere. See Sara Randazzo, Move Over LSAT, Here Comes the GRE, The Wall Street Journal, February 22, 2016. Special thanks to Brian Cohan (Attorney at Law, Law Offices of Brian J. Cohan, P.C.) for bringing this article to my attention. https://lawprofessors.typepad.com/trusts_estates_prof/2016/02/university-of-arizona-law-school-now-accepts-gre-scores-for-admissions.html An American college student detained in North Korea last month has appeared in public in North Korea. Otto Warmbier appeared at a North Korean press conference and made a public statement apologizing and asking for forgiveness. The 21-year-old University of Virginia student was arrested last month before boarding a plane out of the country. He has been charged with committing a hostile act against the state, with the help of the United States. Warmbier said he removed a sign from a hotel in an area only for workers. He and his tour group stayed at the hotel. He said a member of his church asked him to bring the sign to the United States to show to others. Warmbier was reportedly in North Korea on a discount tour for college students, not a church group. North Korea has not said what punishment Warmbier may face. I understand the severity of my crime, and I have no idea what sort of penalty I may face, but I am begging to the Korean people and government for my forgiveness, Warmbier said. And I am praying to the heavens so that I may be returned home to my family. North Korea has often detained Americans and other foreign citizens on false charges. The detainees are usually forced to read statements to foreign journalists confessing to crimes against the state. Most experts say the detainees are forced to make the statements. When the detainees are released, they often say they did not make the statements voluntarily and that they do not agree with what they were forced to say. Experts say North Korea often tries to use the detainees in negotiations with the West. Companies that work with travelers bring people to North Korea so they can see how people live in the closed country. But the U.S. and Canadian governments say people should not travel to North Korea. Im Mary Gotschall. VOANews.com reported this story. Christopher Jones-Cruise adapted the story for VOA Learning English. Kathleen Struck was the editor. We want to hear from you. Write to us in the Comments Section, or visit our Facebook page. Lebanon skaters visit schools to get input on the next phase of the skate park This announcement is a Re-announcement of Vacancy 1620530. We have amended the announcement to accept only surface mail applications and to address on one duty location, Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Please note your application must be time stamped for mailing on or before the 3/7/2016. Civilian employees serve a vital role in supporting the Army mission. They provide the skills that are not readily available in the military, but crucial to support military operations. The Army integrates the talents and skills of its military and civilian members to form a Total Army. About the Position: This position is Full time term position in Garmisch-Partenkirchen and is an appointment in the excepted service. The George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies, (MC) is a joint US Department of Defense and German Ministry of Defense institution located in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. Its mission is to foster a stable security environment by advancing democratic defense institutions and relationships, promoting active, peaceful engagement; and enhancing enduring partnerships between the nations of America, Europe and Eurasia. In this capacity, the MC plays a key role in assisting Eastern nations in developing the government institutions required for the development of democracies and market economies. This is an international, professional, and fast-paced working environment at the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies supporting a bi-lateral United States/Germany partnership. The Marshall Center is an educational institution focusing on the training of students from throughout NATO, Eastern Europe, and Eurasia through classroom and conference attendance. This position is located in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany. Garmisch-Partenkirchen, located on the German-Austrian border at the foot of the Alps, was two 1,100 year old towns when they were reluctantly merged in 1935 for the 1936 Winter Olympics. The population is approximately 26,000, and the close-knit military community consists of service members and DoD civilian employees assigned to the garrison or a tenant unit, family members, and a large retiree population in Bavaria and Austria. ***NOTE: Professors are hired for an initial period of 3 years with possible extensions in 24 months increments. The position is in the Excepted Service. ***This position is identified as HARD TO FILL for the purpose of authorizing living quarters allowance. LQA is authorized for the local hire selectee who also meets basic requirements of the DSSR 031.12b, and DoD 1400.25M, Sub 1250. Who May Apply: All United States Citizens and Nationals with allegiance to the United States worldwide You will serve as a senior level academic and/or practitioner at the George C. Marshall European Center for Security Studies, (MC) and report to the Dean of the College of International and Security Studies (CISS) of the Marshall Center. Your focus will be on transnational security studies, international security strategy, and policy. Transnational security challenges include issues related to illicit trafficking in narcotics or persons, proliferation of dangerous materials, transnational organized crime, corruption, cyber security, counter terrorism, law enforcement, and border control. You will be responsible for conducting graduate-level classes and seminars in support of the basic curriculum, preparing and delivering lectures, critiquing student assignments, monitoring and evaluating student performance, and conducting tutorials with students. Additionally, you will be participating in panel discussions, and escorting and/or introducing visiting lecturers, assisting in curricular development and evaluating/revising existing curricula, and identifying appropriate measures of student performance and comprehension. You will conduct and supervise research, publish original contributions in your field of knowledge, and participate in collateral instructional assignments and presentations of short courses. Your administrative duties include assisting course directors and the Dean in planning and executing programs, and serving as an escort, host, moderator, and/or project officer for field studies. You will attend selected social functions and maintain a high level of professionalism and currency in your field. You will organize or support Marshall Center nonresident events in the field. As determined by the Dean, you may provide support as a Course Director or Associate Course Director. This list does not exhaust the variety of additional duties faculty members may be required to perform. The nature of programs offered by the Marshall Center demands academic flexibility in a culturally diverse environment. In order to qualify, you must meet the education and/or experience requirements described below. Your resume must clearly describe your relevant experience; if qualifying based on education, your transcripts will be required as part of your application. Additional information about transcripts is in this document. Experience required: Experience refers to paid and unpaid experience, including volunteer work done through National Service programs (e.g., Peace Corps, AmeriCorps) and other organizations (e.g., professional; philanthropic; religious; spiritual; community; student; social). You will receive credit for all qualifying experience, including volunteer experience. Applicants must hold a Master's Degree, or higher. Preferably a Ph.D. and/or extensive experience as a senior practitioner in positions of national security related to transnational security issues. Associate Professor- Must have 2 to 5 years academic and/or operational experience in the field of International and Security Studies. Specialized experience, equivalent to the AD-1701-00 grade level in the Federal service, performing work in: conducting graduate-level classes and seminars, preparing and delivering lectures, participating in panel discussions, assisting in curriculum development and/or evaluating or revising existing curricula, measuring student performance, and monitoring and evaluating student performance. Professor - 5 to 10 years academic and/ or operational experience in the field of International and Security Studies. Specialized experience, equivalent to the AD-1701-00 grade level in the Federal service, performing work in: conducting graduate-level classes and seminars, preparing and delivering lectures, participating in panel discussions, assisting in curriculum development and/or evaluating or revising existing curricula, measuring student performance, and monitoring and evaluating student performance. Qualification Requirements: KSA 1 - Academic Credentials: Background of original academic and/or senior level practitioner achievement in transnational security studies, international security strategy, and policy. Transnational security challenges include issues related to illicit trafficking in narcotics or persons, proliferation of dangerous materials, transnational organized crime, corruption, cyber security, counter terrorism, law enforcement, and border control. Subject matter expertise should be at the strategic level, addressing these security challenges at the state and/or international level. Although the ideal candidate will be one who has expertise in a number of these areas, it is not necessary that each of them be addressed in every case. * KSA2 Teaching Expertise: Must have teaching experience in the related field, at the academic level, in a school of higher education or equivalent institution of training or education focused on professionals in government or private practice. * KSA3 Professional Experience: Demonstrated experience as a practicing professional in one or more specific international organizations. Experience as a practicing professional (e.g. former senior policy practitioners in defense/foreign policy area, former senior military, senior level policy or diplomatic positions, former legislative office holders, practicing economists). KSA 4 Administrative Experience/Leadership:Broad professional background, including a demonstrated and successful record of leadership achievements and innovation, including education technology applications and opportunities. Demonstrated excellence in managing complex organizations; highly developed communication skills and evidence of high level of teaching experience or experience at teaching the graduate level and policy related experience. Some federal jobs allow you to substitute your education for the required experience in order to qualify. For this job, you may qualify if your education meets the definitions below: Applicants must (a) hold an Advanced degree,preferably a Ph.D. and/or extensive experience as a senior practitioner in positions of national security related to transnational security issues AND demonstrated excellence in teaching, research, and other scholarly activities, including publication in professional journals and refereed scholarly presses; and/ or professional experience teaching or equivalent professional experience in the majority of the core subjects of the Marshall Center Programs. Only degrees from an accredited college or university recognized by the Department of Education are acceptable to meet positive education requirements or to substitute education for experience. For additional information, U.S. Department of Education website at - http://www.ed.gov... Foreign Education: Education that has been completed in a foreign college or university may be used to meet the job requirements. In order to receive credit in the examination for your foreign education, you must have your foreign education evaluated by a private organization that specializes in interpretation of foreign education credentials. Such education must be declared the equivalent of similar undergraduate or graduate work in a U.S. institution. Please include this information in your resume. Other Requirements: Click here for expanded definitions. * Male applicants born after December 31, 1959 must complete a Pre-Employment Certification Statement for Selective Service Registration. * One year trial/probationary period may be required. * Direct Deposit of Pay is Required. * Must file annual financial disclosure statement. (OGE-450, (5CFR Part 26.34, Subpart I USOGE, 6/8) * This is not part of the DoD relocation Program. * Fluency in English required and fluency in Russian or German is desirable * A favorable background investigation is required. From SimplyHired.com:Let us know what you think! Reiterating Prime Minister Narendra Modis commitment to remove black money from the economy, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley announced a voluntary disclosure of income scheme in the Union Budget 2016-17 on Monday for unearthing undisclosed income. It may be an opportunity for those who didnt disclose their income and pay tax to voluntarily come forward and compensate, but the experts on black money and taxation are apprehensive about the success rate of the scheme meant to bring out undisclosed income in the mainstream. Let's take the foreign assets declaration scheme announced in Budget 2015-16. While the present one is meant for the domestic taxpayers, the last years scheme, which was for foreign assets, failed to bear desirable result apparently due to high tax rate and penalty (60 percent). The voluntary scheme: The FM in his budget speech on Monday proposed a limited period compliance window for domestic taxpayers to declare undisclosed income and clear their past tax transgressions. As per the scheme, the tax rate is 30 percent, surcharge 7.5 percent and penalty 7.5 percent, which is a total of 45 percent of the undisclosed income. The surcharge levied at 7.5 percent of undisclosed income will be called Krishi Kalyan surcharge which will be used for agriculture and rural economy. A window of four months has been givenfrom 1 June to 30 September with an option to pay amount due within two months of declaration. There will be no scrutiny or inquiry under the Income Tax Act or the Wealth Tax Act. The declarants will have immunity from prosecution. Immunity from Benami Transaction (Prohibition) Act, 1988 is also proposed subject to certain conditions. Jaitley said once this opportunity for evaded income to be declared was given, the government would further focus on bringing people with black money to book. Will it work? Experts strongly feel that given the amnesty nature of the scheme announced on Monday, the success rate might be low as many who evaded disclosing their incomes and didnt pay taxes in the first place are not going to respond to this call either. Though it has not been called an amnesty scheme, this income disclosure scheme is amnesty by nature, because the government except collecting 45 percent tax (with surcharge and penalty) is lenient towards tax evaders," said economist Arun Kumar. "The same people may not respond to pay 45 percent tax, as itll be convenient for them not to pay at all. Why should they pay, if they can get away with it? Prior to Monday's announcement, earlier successive governments had introduced six Voluntary Disclosure of Income Schemes (VDIS) till 1997 to bring undisclosed income or black money into the mainstream. The Supreme Court in 1997 took an undertaking from the government that no amnesty scheme should be announced, as it demoralises honest taxpayers and gives tax evaders an opportunity to get away by paying a penalty. The foreign assets declaration scheme announced in the last budget didnt do well due to high tax rate of 60 percent," said Riaz Thingna, director, Grant Thornton Advisory. Last time the government had said that it wouldnt come up with any kind of amnesty scheme because earlier, whenever the amnesty schemes were announced by any name, they attracted lot of criticism. Because people felt that they benefitted dishonest taxpayers and simultaneously demoralised honest taxpayers. Its a tough call for the government, as large chunk of money is in a parallel economy. Subrat Das, executive director, Centre for Budget and Governance Accountability, also sees the scheme not yielding much in terms of declarations. "Instead of focusing on bringing back black money, the focus of the government should be on curbing the generation of black money by checking trade misinvoicing. This can be done by greater coordination between the trade and customs authorities of different countries," he suggests. Chartered accountant Abhishek Aneja said, Last years scheme didnt do well because in case of black money stashed abroad, the money is normally routed through a planned strategy and is channelled from different jurisdictions through the trusts and companies registered or incorporated outside India. In such a case it becomes difficult for the tax authorities to identify the tax evaders and impose the liability on them. But it is not so difficult in case of undisclosed money in India, which is much easier to track by the government. So, the scheme announced in this budget may help the government to bring undisclosed income in the mainstream. Government optimistic Probably going by the success of the 1997 VDIS and the Voluntary Compliance Encouragement Scheme (VCES) pertaining to Service Tax announced by the UPA government in 2013, the Modi government seems optimistic with this scheme. While, the government had received more than Rs 9,000 crore from 1997 VDIS scheme, VCES reportedly yielded Rs 7,700 crore from service tax defaulters. This disclosure scheme is different from the previous VDIS," said Revenue Secretary Hasmukh Adhia. "The most popular scheme announced in 1997 yielded more than Rs 9,000 crore to government exchequer. This scheme will do well and the government has projected 18 percent growth in personal income tax." Carrot and Stick approach Herve Falciani, the French-Italian whistleblower and the person behind the Lagarde list that revealed the identity of 2000 potential tax evaders, suggested the Indian government adopt a tough approach when dealing with tax evaders. Large sums of money worth lakhs of crores is illegally flowing out of India and stashed abroad. In some countries, some of the banks are operating like brokers and respective government are safeguarding the banks due to financial interests. If India doesnt work hard to stop the flow of money, it would be devastating. Tough measures are needed, Falciani had remarked. Unless the government comes down heavily with tough measures, its very difficult to tackle tax evaders and black money issue. A lenient approach in the form of amnesty scheme gives a message that the government is pro-business and doesnt want to act tough. This demoralises honest taxpayers, added Kumar. This scheme is good, but government has to adopt a carrot-and-stick approach. A mere scheme is not enough, unless stringent measures are taken against tax evaders, added Thingna. Referring to the success of VCES, Aneja added, In the case of VCES, the government later cracked whip on tax evaders by giving arrest powers to its officers. This yielded result. The scheme will add to the revenues of the government and help many taxpayers who have missed out in declaring their taxable income due to any reason or have failed to submit their return of income for any year. However, stringent measures are required to stop the practice of non-payment of taxes. New Delhi: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today proposed to amend the Sebi Act in order to increase benches in the Securities Appellate Tribunal (SAT). Currently, SAT has only one bench which sits in Mumbai. All the orders passed by the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) can be appealed in SAT. The proposed move will help expedite cases related to securities markets. SAT is a statutory body established under the provisions of the Sebi Act, 1992, to hear and dispose of appeals against orders passed by the capital markets regulator. While unveiling the Budget 2016-17 in the Lok Sabha, Jaitley proposed to amend the Sebi Act to increase benches in SAT to reduce pendency. As per the latest Sebi data, 520 appeals were filed before SAT during 2014-15 whereas 103 appeals were dismissed and 381 appeals were pending at the end of the year. Besides, 16 Sebi orders were upheld with changes. As per the Sebi Act, the orders passed by the regulator can be appealed before SAT while the Tribunal's orders can be further challenged before the Supreme Court. The success rate in the Securities Appellate Tribunal for 2014-15 stood at 90 per cent compared with 88 per cent in 2013-14, Sebi has said. Against SAT's orders, five appeals were filed by Sebi whereas 31 appeals were filed against Sebi in the Supreme Court during 2014-15. Nine appeals were disposed of where the appeals were filed by Sebi while 25 appeals were disposed of where the appeals were filed against Sebi. PTI By Rakesh Bhatnagar The prime concern for finance minister Arun Jaitley after delivering the Budget on Monday is to move a Bill that gives statutory status to Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) which enrolls people for Aadhaar card. Since the government will now link all subsidies and monetary benefits to a large section of beneficiaries with Aadhaar card, it becomes incumbent that the UIDAI is accorded legal status, which its creator Congress-led UPA couldnt during its tenure, and take guard against the Supreme Courts intervention on the issue whether this unique identity card violates right to privacy of citizens. The UPA government had moved the National Identification Authority of India (NIDAI) Bill 2010 in the Rajya Sabha to provide statutory backing to its Aadhaar scheme, but it could not get the approval of Parliament because of little support from its key opponent BJP. It was on the argument made by Attorney General Mukul Rohatgi that right to privacy could be voluntarily surrendered by people in order to avail the monetary subsidies provided by the government, the top court had slammed the government saying no scheme could violate the fundamental right of privacy. Serious doubts were, however, raised on the Aadhaar card scheme as the government hadnt been able to set up its statutory authority. In October 2015, Supreme Court had issued an interim order rejecting mandatory requirement of Aadhaar for availing benefits or subsidies or services of government and said that the Aadhaar card scheme is purely voluntary and it cannot be made mandatory till the matter is finally decided by it. Can an individual voluntarily waive his right to privacy by enrolling for Aadhaar? The Supreme Court had its reservation, thus referred this question for consideration by a Constitution Bench of at least five judges while refusing to modify its August 11, 2015 interim order restricting the use of Aadhaar to identify beneficiaries for the subsidies. In a talk on national TV channel, Jaitley on Monday said the government will soon pilot a Bill to effectuate statutory status to UIDAI so that Aadhaar card is mandatory. It is learnt that the Aadhaar (Delivery of Benefits, Subsidies and Services) Bill 2016 is ready and may be piloted in this current session in Lok Sabha. This proposed legislation would grant statutory footing to Aadhaar card. Attorney General Rohatgi has opined that the government could move the Bill as Money Bill under Articles 109 and 110 of the Constitution. The Modi government also has plans to withdraw National Identification Authority of India Bill, 2010, from Rajya Sabha. Jaitley says the proposed Bill wouldnt interfere with the issue of privacy which is awaiting hearing by the Supreme Court. He doesnt elaborate. It is learnt that the Bill could help the government counter concerns raised over privacy and data security. It provides for proof of Aadhaar number as a condition for receipt of benefit and subsidy funded by the Consolidated Fund of India. It is learnt that a framework is needed for effective implementation of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) schemes. Thus, all benefits, subsidies or services funded from the consolidated fund of India, should be through Aadhaar platform. Though details of the Bill are awaited, it takes care of legislation, privacy and data security. A retired judge, Justice K.S. Puttaswamy, who challenged the legality of Aadhaar had raised primary concern that whether the collection and storing of biometric and other information would compromise a citizens right to privacy. Until date over 98 crore Aadhaar numbers have been generated. On an average 26 lakh biometric and over 1.5 lakh e-KYC transactions are prepared every day. Aadhaar numbers have been fed in 11.19 crore Direct Benefit Transfer of LPG (DBTL) accounts out of total 16.5 crore DBTL beneficiaries. Why statutory status to Aadhaar card is imperative? Jaitley says at a time when the government is determined to wipe out pilferage in distribution of subsidy meant for the rightful claimants, a unique number linked to bank account of the claimant is necessary. The proposed food subsidy bill is of Rs 1.35 lakh crore, Fertiliser subsidies total to Rs 70,000 crore, petroleum bill at Rs 26,947 crore and another Rs 38,500 crore to the BPL farm labourers engaged in minor construction works 150 days in a year under MNREGA. The Union Cabinet approved direct benefit transfer to beneficiaries of the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme (MGNREGS) as it noted that delayed payments had been one of the biggest drawbacks of the affirmative scheme under which Rs 34,000 crore had been allocated this fiscal. Direct benefit transfer ensures that scheme funds do not get indefinitely parked with the state finance departments or diverted to the vested interests in the government. New Delhi: Government will rationalise the pension sector by a uniform tax treatment and has proposed to raise the exemption limit from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh for annual contribution in a superannuation fund and also non-levy on taxes upon the death of an employee under NPS. Besides, 40 percent of the pension wealth under NPS will be exempted from tax. It is proposed to provide a uniform tax treatment to the recognised provident fund, national pension system and superannuation fund, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said while presenting Union Budget 2016-17 in Lok Sabha on Monday. "Exemption limit is proposed to be increased from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh for annual contribution by an employer to superannuation fund. "Any amount received by the nominee, on the death of the employee at the time of closure of account under National Pension System referred to in section 80CCD of the Income-tax Act is proposed to be exempt", Jaitley said. Among others, a monetary limit of Rs 1.5 lakh will be provided for annual contribution in a provident fund and exemption for one-time portability from provident fund or superannuation fund to National Pension System (NPS). The finance minister also proposed that 40 percent of the pension wealth of an employee under NPS will be exempted from tax. "It is also proposed the exemption under the recognised provident fund and superannuation fund will be limited to 40 per cent of the accumulated amount arising out of contributions made in such funds on or after April 1, 2016. "However, this restriction shall not be applicable to an employee participating in a recognised provident fund and whose monthly salary does not exceed Rs 15,000 per month," he said. Besides, to help India moved towards greater pension coverage, the government has also done away with the levy of service tax on annuity under the NPS run by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority of India (PFRDA). PTI The Union Budget 2016 bore Prime Minister Narendra Modis imprint rather than that of his finance minister, Arun Jaitley. It offered a fine blueprint of several small steps to lift Indias villages and encourage small entrepreneurs but failed to impress on NDA-governments big challenge of taking ahead the reforms process and aggressive infrastructure spending needed to lift the economy to a high growth path. The 2016 budget, a big test for Jaitley, was a tough balancing act between the fiscal consolidation and much-needed spending to revive growth in the economy, especially in the face of rising investor-pessimism on the rise, which has risked Modis task of reviving the economy. Jaitley committed to the fiscal consolidation path, but failed to impress by setting aside enough funds to push ahead the infrastructure growth and address the banking sector woes. Rural push The major highlight of the budget was Jaitleys big push on agriculture and rural India. For rural development he announced a package of Rs 87,765 crore in fiscal year 2017 as against Rs 79,526 crore. That apart, Jaitley announced a subsidy scheme for BPL families for cooking gas and said the government targets to double the income of farmers by 2020 and Rs 2,000 crore for new LPG connections. Jaitley allocated Rs 35,984 crore for the farming sector, Rs 86,500 crore on irrigation for five years, and Rs 15,000 crore interest subvention for agricultural loans. For crop insurance, Jaitley announced Rs 5,500 crore and Rs 38,500 crore for MGNREGA as against Rs 34,699 crore last year. He also laid out plans to electrify all Indian villages by 1 May 2018 and allocated Rs 8,500 crore for rural electrification in fiscal 2017. As in every year, the agriculture credit target has been increased to Rs 9 lakh crore from Rs 8.5 lakh crore. Fiscal deficit on target For fiscal year 2017, Jaitley announced a fiscal deficit target of 3.5 percent and for the fiscal year 2016, the fiscal deficit target has been met at 3.9 percent. This news could make the rating agencies, investors and the RBI happier since there was immense pressure on the government to stick to the fiscal consolidation roadmap (set at 3.9 percent in fiscal year 2016, 3.5 percent in 2016-17 and 3 percent by 2017-18). But Jaitley promised that there wont be compromise on the spending side, announcing a 11 percent increase to Rs 19.78 lakh crore in fiscal 2017 from Rs 17.77 lakh crore BE year before. Of this, plan expenditure is up by 15 percent to Rs 5.5 lakh crore and non-plan expenditure increased by 9 percent to Rs 14.28 lakh crore. Infra spending But the government lowered its spending on the infrastructure segment. For fiscal year 2017, Jaitely set aside Rs 2.21 lakh crore for the infrastructure sector , a decline of 12 percent, compared with Rs 2.51 lakh crore announced last year. Of the total, Jaitley allocated Rs 55,000 crore for roads and highways and another Rs 15,000 crore from bonds will be raised by NHAI. For railways and roads , in 2016-17, total capital allocation is Rs 2.18 lakh crore. One should note that Jaitleys big task remains making sure the engines of economic growth arent failing. This year, the increase in infra spending is merely Rs 30,000 crore as against Rs 70,000 crore last year, which isnt so encouraging at this stage of economic growth. This part is critical given that private sector investment cycle is yet to kick off. The Economic Survey announced on Friday, ahead of the budget, spelled out the first priority for Jaitley to deal with in the budget ensure that growth momentum is on. This is because the current environment is fraught with risks, which threaten all the engines of Indias growth, the Economic Survey said. Disinvestment The government has set a disinvestment target of Rs 56,500 crore for fiscal year 2017 as against Rs 69,500 crore for fiscal year 2016. Of this Rs 56,500 crore, Rs 36,000 crore is through the sale of stake in state-run companies and the rest through strategic sales. In the last year, as against the target of Rs 69,500 core, the government managed to raise only Rs 18,421 crore (from sale of stake in six PSUs) on account of lukewarm market conditions. Lowering the divestment target is a good strategy since missing a very ambitious target could boomerang. Turn off for banking sector For fiscal year 2017, Jaitley announced a capital infusion of Rs 25,000 for government-banks, which was part of the Rs 70,000 crore announced for five years last year and examining the option to bring down government stake in some banks below 51 percent such as in IDBI Bank. But, given the stressed asset situation in the banking sector, the financial sector was expecting more infusion, as reflected in the crash in bank stocks. Remember, Jaitley, as finance minister, has failed so far to get hold of the root of the problems that has engulfed Indias Rs 95 trillion banking industry. He underestimated the capital needs of state-run banks in the initial days of this NDA government when he allocated merely Rs 11,200 crore and refused to think of radical reforms in the banking sector such as merging small banks and bringing in private capital. Jaitleys banking sector strategy fell short of what was needed to revive state-run banks. Though the finance minister recognised the issues later and offered more capital (Rs 70,000 crore over five years), it was too late and too little. Indias banking industry, 70 percent dominated by state-run banks, is in the midst of a crisis with their total bad loans exceeding Rs 4 lakh crore at the end of December and more likely to come from the restructured loan segment if economic recovery doesnt occur as expected. Arguably, the Indradhanush package announced by Jaitley last year to revive PSBs isnt adequate to set these institutions on safer path. Financial sector reforms Jaitley reiterated the promise of big reforms saying this process will continue, taking ahead the process to enact an effective bankruptcy code, but there wasnt any solid roadmap for the high-profile GST law as such. One must remember that the Modi governments trump card in the run-up to the Lok Sabha elections in 2014 was rapid economic growth through big-ticket reforms. It has indeed achieved progress on several small-ticket reforms such as the Insurance Bill, opening up the FDI in several sectors, bringing in the JAM (Jan Dhan, Aadhaar and Mobile) movement to facilitate financial inclusion and subsidy rationalisation process by way of Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). But the investors want promised large-ticket reforms such as the long-pending GST, amendments to the land acquisition process for industries and easier labour laws. On this part, the Narendra Modi government hasnt yet managed to make any meaningful progress since a consensus is absent between the incumbent BJP and opposition parties on key issues including GST. As Firstpost highlighted in an earlier article, the Modi magic that worked wonders for stock markets is long dead and gone as reflected in the domestic equity markets. It is time for the government to acknowledge the actual state of the economy and work on solutions. Dealing with bad loans projects Jaitely announced changes in SARFESI Act and more amendments to laws that permit further investments in asset reconstruction companies. This is important since there is a Centre for Monitoring Indian Economy (CMIE), the number of stalled projects has been on the rise in recent quarters after a period of improvement. The bad loan crisis in the banking sector has severely constrained the ability of the banks to fund long-gestation infrastructure projects. That apart, delays in project implementations have resulted in huge cost-over runs to companies. The corporate sector will eagerly look for measures that can ease their burden, especially in the infrastructure projects. Can Jaitleys 2016 budget provide relief to companies? At first glance, Budget 2016 is more a Modi budget, than a statement of purpose from Jaitley. Packed with several small-steps initiatives but lacking major bold steps to undertake much needed reforms . (Kishor Kadam contributed to this story) MUMBAI Indian jewellers will go on indefinite strike from Tuesday in protest over the reintroduction after four years of a sales tax on gold jewellery, their trade body said. The strike could curb gold imports by the world's second biggest consumer and put pressure on global prices. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley announced an excise duty of 1 percent on gold and diamond jewellery on Monday. "Jewellers across the country will go on strike from tomorrow. We are urging the government to roll back excise duty," Ketan Shroff, a spokesman for India Bullion and Jewellers Association (IBJA), told Reuters. Successive governments have struggled to curb appetite for gold in Asia's third largest economy, despite the imposition of a 10 percent import duty in 2013 and other restrictions. Annual imports of up to 1,000 tonnes of gold, accounting for about a quarter of India's trade deficit, have also prompted the government to launch a scheme to mobilise a pool of more than 20,000 tonnes of the metal lying idle in homes and temples. The government imposed an excise duty in 2012, but was forced to roll it back after jewellers went on a strike. "Jewellery sales have already been falling due to higher prices. In such (a) situation the government has raised (the) burden of excise duty," Shroff said. Jewellery sales in India have fallen in the last two months due to higher gold prices and as consumers delayed purchases hoping for a cut in import duty. This has forced importers to offer a discount of up to $53 per ounce to clear inventory. But Jaitley surprised the market by maintaining the duty and instead raising the concessional countervailing duty on imports of gold dore bars, an alloy, to 8.75 percent from 8 percent. (Reporting by Rajendra Jadhav; Editing by Alexander Smith) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. New Delhi: The Delhi High Court today upheld TRAI's decision making it mandatory for cellular operators to compensate subscribers for call drops from 1 January, 2016. A bench of Chief Justice G Rohini and Justice Jayant Nath dismissed a batch of petitions filed by Cellular Operators Association of India, a body of Unified Telecom Service Providers of India and 21 telecom operators, including Vodafone, Bharti Airtel and Reliance. "We uphold the validity of (TRAI's) regulation," it said. The court said that it has not stayed the notification of Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) since filing of the writ petition, therefore the telecom regulator is at liberty to implement its decision 1 January, 2016. "There is no dispute about the power of TRAI to make regulation under section 36 of the Act. The impugned regulation has been made in exercise of the power conferred under the Act, keeping in mind the paramount interest of the consumer," the bench observed. "It is also relevant to note that the regulations do not penalise every call drop but is limited only to three call drops a day per consumer," it said. The telecom operators had moved the high court seeking quashing of TRAI's regulation contending that it was a "knee-jerk reaction" which penalised them without proving any wrong-doing. The telecom companies had termed the regulation as "arbitrary and whimsical" and contended that providing compensation to the consumers amounted to interfering with the companies' tariff structure and this could be done only by an order and not a regulation. The bench, while brushing aside the telcos' contention, concurred with the submissions made by Additional Solicitor General P S Narasimha that the regulation is in interest of the consumer. The court also observed in its 39-page verdict that the compensation for call drops was capped at Rs 3 only and the regulation also mandated only compensating the calling consumer not the receiver. PTI The Delhi High court on Monday reserved its verdict on the bail plea of JNU students union president Kanhaiya Kumar, who refuted the allegation of police that he was raising anti-India slogans at an event on 9 February at the campus. Justice Pratibha Rani, before whom the Delhi Police claimed that they have witnesses who have identified Kanhaiya and others raising anti-India slogans, will pronounce the order on 2 March. Kumar, who is in judicial custody, submitted through senior advocate Kapil Sibal, that anti-India slogans inside the campus were raised by people with covered faces. The senior advocate also questioned the conduct of the Delhi police on registering the FIR on the basis of a TV video. He asked why the FIR was not registered on that day itself if Kanhaiya and others had raised anti-India slogans as police personnel were present in plain clothes during the event and had witnessed the incident. The High Court was told by him that the application for organising the event in question was filed by Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya, also accused in the case and are presently undergoing custodial interrogation. " "Obviously, Kanhaiya had no part to play as he had not applied for the event. There itself the case against Kanhaiya goes," the counsel said. Sibal, who was assisted by another senior advocate Rebecca John, submitted that the court can itself find from the video that Kanhaiya himself was seen asking people with covered faces, also accused of raising anti-India slogans, for their identity cards. Sibal claimed that there was no forensic report of the recording which could establish that Kanhaiya had raised anti-India slogans which attract the sedition charges. Taking note of Sibal's submissions, the court questioned the investigating agency whether there was any CCTV footage or mobile recording which could establish that Kanhaiya raised such slogans. "Whether there is contemporaneous recording where the slogans were raised, pre and post the event," the court asked. The court also questioned Delhi police as to why they did not register the FIR when its officials were present during the event and must have noticed the alleged incident. Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for Delhi police, defended its stand on arresting Kanhaiya, saying there was evidence, including pamphlets and statements of the witnesses, which clearly state that Kanhaiya and others were shouting anti-India slogans and were holding Afzal Guru's posters. Mehta also submitted that there was a joint probe of the Intelligence Bureau and Delhi police in which the arrested accused are found raising slogans. "In the light of these evidences, he (Kanhaiya) was very much there on the spot, along with other accused," ASG said, adding that the investigating agency is also probing into the financial aspect behind this incident which is part of a larger criminal conspiracy. He contended that this case has been transferred from Delhi police to its anti-terror cell (Special cell). However, the ASG's claim was opposed by AAP government appointed senior standing counsel, Rahul Mehra, who said Kanhaiya is a student and he cannot be involved in anti-India movement. "He is innocent. He is a man who is standing by the Constitution, which also reflects from his speech given on February 11, that he loves his country," Mehra contended. He further said, "Though Kanhaiya was present, there is no direct evidence and nothing to establish that he raised anti-India slogans." "As a state (Delhi), I pray the court to grant him bail," Mehra said. Kanhaiya's father, uncle and elder brother were present during the hearing, which started at 2.15 pm and concluded at 5.30 pm. After the counsel concluded the arguments, the court said, "The order is likely to be pronounced day after tomorrow (March 2)." Kapil Sibal argued that Kanhaiya was at the event only to break a fight. Kanhaiya Kumar's lawyer Kapil Sibal to Delhi HC- Kanhaiya was only there to break fight, he opposes anti national slogans &didn't raise them ANI (@ANI_news) February 29, 2016 Delhi police sought an extension for Kumar's custody to interrogate him more along with Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya who were also arrested under sedition charges. Kanhaiya Kumar was arrested for allegedly rasing 'anti-national' slogans on 9 February to mark Afzal Guru. According to an NDTV report, the police think that the statements made by the trio are contradictory. The Delhi Government said that there was no evidence against Kanhaiya Kumar and that he should be given bail. The High Court also questioned the police is there was any CCTV footage or if the report was entirely based on a TV channel's footage. Delhi Police said that Kanhaiya cannot be seen shouting slogans, however that there were witnesses (NU officials, Chief security officers and students of JNU) who saw him shouting anti-national slogans. HC questioned Police- Was there any CCTV footage of entire incident? If report is based on TV channel footage, is there any other evidence Delhi Govt tells Court- No evidence against #KanhaiyaKumar. He should be given bail. No innocent person can be punished. ANI (@ANI_news) February 29, 2016 According to the police, the investigation seeks to linkages among Kanhaiya Kumar, Umar Khalid, Anirban Bhattacharya and the others mentioned in the status report. Kanhaiya had earlier sought bail from the Supreme Court, however, citing that it would set a bad precedent, the apex court, asked Kanhaiya to approach High Court. The High Court hearing was adjourned to 29 February. According to the police, the investigation seeks to linkages among Kanhaiya Kumar, Umar Khalid, Anirban Bhattacharya and the others mentioned in the status report. Delhi Police says that video footage is just a corroborative evidence, there is more evidence against Kanhaiya Kumar to prove offence. Kapil Sibal represented Kanhaiya Kumar presenting that there was no case against him. The Delhi Police also drew the High Court's attention to the ramifications of the JNU issue as to how similar sorts of slogans were raised in Jadavpur University causing mayhem. Earlier, an FIR was lodged against Arvind Kejriwal, Rahul Gandhi and Sitaram Yechury on sedition charges by a lawyer, Janardhan Goud. In his petition, Goud said Rahul and other leaders, despite being aware that Delhi Police had registered a case against Kanhaiya on charge of sedition had visited JNU campus and knowingly supported them and hence it "amounted to sedition". Read the full report here. With inputs from agencies Mumbai: In a ghastly crime, a 32-year-old man allegedly murdered 14 members of his family, including seven children, and committed suicide early on Sunday in Thane, said police. The brutal murder took place at around 1 am in Kasarvadavli area, where the accused apparently sedated the victims before slitting their throats with a large knife, they said. The man has been identified as Hasnil Warerkar. Though the motive behind the massacre is unclear, preliminary inquiries point towards a family dispute over some property matters. The victims included seven children. Those killed were identified as: Anwar Warekar (father, 65), Asgari (mother, 56), Jabin (wife, 28), Mubatshira, 6, and Umera, three months old, both daughters, Shabina Shaukat Khan, 35, Maria Irfan Fakki, 28, and Batul, 30 (sisters), Anas Shaukat Khan, 12, Sadiya Shaukat Khan, 16, and Arsiya Yusuf Bharmal, five-month old (nieces), Alihasan Shaukat Khan, 5, Umer Irgan Fakki, 7, and Yusuf Irfan Khan (nephews). The lone woman survivor, identified as his sister, Sabia Yusuf Bharmal (22), was rushed to a local hospital where her condition is described as "critical". "Prima facie, evidence suggests that the accused bolted all the doors and windows of the house and killed his family while they slept. Later, he hung himself near a staircase in the bungalow and the knife he used was found near his body," said the Thane Joint Police Commissioner Ashutosh Dumbare. Sabia's loud screams prompted some youths in the locality to break open the doors and windows of the house and rescue her, he said. The knife used for the murder has been seized and a forensic team has been summoned to the crime scene while the bodies have been sent for an autopsy, Dumbare added. Warekar worked as an income tax consultant. Neighbours described him as a quiet, non-controversial and helpful person and there were no complaints of any kind against the family which enjoyed a good reputation in the locality. Locals claimed that a couple of years ago, Warekar had allegedly attempted to poison his family and six members were rushed to a hospital. They fortunately survived. With inputs from agencies Chandigarh: Submitting a status report on the alleged Murthal gang rapes, the Haryana government on Monday told the Punjab and Haryana High Court that no such rapes or incidents of molestation were reported from Haryana's Sonipat district during the recent Jat agitation. The preliminary status report was submitted following investigations into the matter by an three-member all-women special investigation team (SIT) constituted last week by Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar's government. The SIT report said no woman had come forward to lodge a complaint of gang rapes in Murthal on 22 February. The high court, taking suo motu notice of a media report about the gang rapes, had asked the government and the state police to submit a status report on the issue by Monday. The high court appointed lawyer Anupam Gupta as amicus curie in the matter. A woman from Delhi's Narela area on Sunday complained that she was gang-raped by seven men on 22-23 February night near Murthal. However, the SIT and other police officers said that preliminary investigations indicated this case was not linked to the Jat agitation. The high court told the SIT to submit a complete report by 14 March. As many as 30 people were killed and over 200 injured in the nine-day violent agitation by members of the Jat community to press their demand for reservation in jobs and educational institutions. IANS New Delhi: Government has allocated Rs 500 crore for scheduled caste, scheduled tribes and women entrepreneurs in the Budget under the Stand Up India scheme. It will also set up a national hub in the Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in partnership with industry associations to provide professional support to scheduled caste/scheduled tribes (SC/ST) entrepreneurs, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said while announcing Union Budget 2016-17 in Parliament. "SC and ST entrepreneurs are beginning to show considerable promise in starting and running businesses... I am happy to inform you that the Union Cabinet has approved the Stand Up India scheme to promote entrepreneurship among ST/SCs and women Rs 500 crore has been provided for this purpose," he said. The scheme will facilitate at least two such projects per bank branch one in each category of entrepreneurs and will benefit at least 2.5 lakh entrepreneurs in this category, he added. "We are celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of Shri B R Ambedkar. This must become the year of the economic empowerment for SC/ST entrepreneurs... It is proposed to constitute a national SC/ST hub in the MSME Ministry in partnership with industry associations," Jaitley said. He said there has been extensive interactions with Dalit India Chamber of Commerce and Industry on building an entrepreneurship ecosystem. "This hub will provide a professional support to SC/ST entrepreneurs to fulfil the obligations under the Central government procurement policy adopted best practices and leverage the Stand up initiative. The scheme for welfare and skill development of minorities such as multi sectoral development and Ustad shall be implemented effectively," he said. PTI Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday presented in Parliament the Union Budget 2016-17 in which no change in personal Income Tax slabs has been announced, while a four-month compliance window for domestic black money holders has been given. The Budget has also given relief to tax payers who earn below Rs 5 lakh per annum and ceiling of rebate u/s 87A has been raised to Rs 5,000 from Rs 2,000. Jaitley also announced that a high-level committee headed by the revenue secretary will oversee creation of fresh liability using retro tax law while clean energy cess has been increased from Rs 200/tonne to 400/tonne on coal, lignite and peat. Here is how the politicians and people of the country reacted to the Budget: Manish Sisodia (Delhi deputy CM) My 1st reaction to union budget : financial injustice to Delhi continues - no change in share in central taxes. Will speak in detail later. Manish Sisodia (@msisodia) February 29, 2016 Yashwant Sinha (BJP): Yes, the Finance Minister has passed the test. There is something for everyone in this Budget. If someone is trying to give financial assistance to the poor instead of giving more money to the rich, this is a good thing. Kamal Nath (Congress): Unfortunately, what needed to be done has not been done. There is no immediate stimulus to create disposable income in hands of people or generate employment. Manmohan Singh (Congress): "I think it (doubling farmers' income) is an impossible dream and there is no inclination, no way of telling the country how it will be achieved because it implies a 14 percent annual increase in the farm income in each of the five years" Radha Mohan Singh (Agriculture Minister): This is the first time after independence that a Budget has been made specifically for the farmers, the poor and the villages. Shashi Tharoor (Congress): The government has painted a very general picture. It has adopted many old policies of the UPA. Amit Shah (BJP president): Government has also done a lot for the infrastructure of the nation. The government has also taken a very important decision for the women in rural areas. Shivraj Singh Chouhan (Madhya Pradesh CM): Im very happy as the Budget has been dedicated to farmers. PM said that we wish to double income of farmers by 2022. Lalu Prasad (RJD president): PM Modi said he will double the income of farmers by 2022. What is the guarantee? Manish Tewari (Congress) #budget2016 high on rhetoric,flawed on comparison,low on imagination, bereft of ideas,services oligarchs,constricts freedom of RBI.DEAD SCUD Manish Tewari (@ManishTewari) February 29, 2016 Devendra Fadnavis (Maharashtra CM) Congrats @arunjaitley Ji for changing direction of budget speech from small geographicoral announcement to broad focus plan#Budget2016 Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) February 29, 2016 Modi govt walks the talk. Thank you @narendramodi ji and @arunjaitley ji for giving a visionary budget in difficult times.#Budget2016 Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) February 29, 2016 Sushil Kumar Modi (BJP) PM has passed the budget exam with https://t.co/8bfTGOHTEV ever https://t.co/sJ6QlSh1PL poor & pro farmer budget.Taken care of all segments. Sushil Kumar Modi (@SushilModi) February 29, 2016 Enhanced outlay in agri,irrigation,infrastructure,Skill & tax relief in housing,business,industry will benefit backward states like Bihar. Sushil Kumar Modi (@SushilModi) February 29, 2016 Kiran Bedi (BJP) So far focus of the Budget is to remove entrenched road blocks and open up several opportunities for all, with substantial resources Kiran Bedi (@thekiranbedi) February 29, 2016 Very holistic specific solutions being offered to pending tax litigations by Finance Minister. @Arunjaitely. Can be used to resolve now Kiran Bedi (@thekiranbedi) February 29, 2016 Those who can afford to smoke in a cash note / paper with tobacco in it will pay more. (can afford it, knowing it's not good for health?) Kiran Bedi (@thekiranbedi) February 29, 2016 Roads,Railways,Rural,Mandi Towns get full attention.Also Health care goes deeper. Wastage's get checked thru MNREGA+FDI in Food Processing.. Kiran Bedi (@thekiranbedi) February 29, 2016 Apart from the reactions from the politicians, there was also a lot of talk about the Budget on social media. Here's a sample: There's some ease of doing business but essentially it's an "Ease of Paying Tax" budget. This is a very very reformist idea #Budget2016 Shekhar Gupta (@ShekharGupta) February 29, 2016 Yes, lots of impressive words in the #Budget. Hope it isn't like my fitness plan! All intent and no execution!! Harsha Bhogle (@bhogleharsha) February 29, 2016 #budget2016 Jaitley's budget numbers may not add up on closer scrutiny but it is difficult to fault him on any onr measure R Jagannathan (@TheJaggi) February 29, 2016 Ahmedabad: The sagging morale of Gujarat BJP workers after the loss in local body polls and the Patel quota agitation has worried party president Amit Shah, who feels that it could be a serious impediment for fighting the state Assembly elections in 2017. BJP is a cadre-based party which is dependent on its workers for its victories in elections. Even as Shah accepted that there is "disappointment" among the party workers, the task cut out for the BJP is huge. Shah, on Saturday, had organised a big party workers meet where he gave a pep talk accepting that sitting in Delhi, he could see the dampening morale of Gujarat BJP workers. He had also said publicly that BJP cannot afford to lose Gujarat as it is a "laboratory" of ideology of Sangh Parivar. In his pep talk, he called on party workers to leave behind all "disappointments, infighting and work collectively" for the 2017 polls. Shah said that as the 2012 state elections was the stepping stone for 2014 Lok Sabha win, in the same way 2017 victory will pave the way for win in 2019 national elections. Patel, a numerically and socially influential caste in Gujarat, are up in arms against the state government for the last six months demanding quota. Agitation had turned violent killing 10 people and damaging public and private properties worth crores of rupees. Acting tough against the leaders of quota agitation like Hardik Patel and his team, the state government has put them behind bars in sedition cases. There is a simmering discontent among a large section of the Patel community as their quota agitation leaders are behind bars since last four months. This, according to political pandits, led to the BJP debacle in the local bodies polls where it lost badly to opposition Congress in the district and taluka panchayats elections. Absence of popular leaders like Narendra Modi from the political scene of the state, who had defeated Congress election-after-election, was also a factor for the party's dipping spirits in Gujarat. "All this things have affected the morale of the party cadres and Amitbhai Shah was able to recognise it. The party is passing through a bad phase in Gujarat for the first time after the 2001," a party leader said. That is why a mega workers meet was organised by the party in which Shah came to boost the party workers, he said. "We have more than one crore party workers. We win elections on the basis of work by workers. I am sure that on their strength we will come out victorious in the 2017 Assembly polls," newly-elected president of Gujarat BJP Vijay Rupani said. Shah had also asserted that party will rise like a Phoenix to win Gujarat. "Congress leaders do not know that BJP is like a Phoenix, which will rise from the ashes," he had said. PTI Ramallah/Gaza: At least 38 Palestinians were arrested by Israeli security forces on Monday in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, sources said. The Palestinian Prisoners Club said that the Israeli army arrested 27 Palestinians in raids in the West Bank cities of Ramallah, Hebron, Nablus and Jenin, Xinhua reported. The Israeli public radio reported that nine of the arrested Palestinians were accused of taking part in violent acts, seven of whom belong to the Islamic Hamas movement. The Israeli forces seized an M16 assault rifle, a pistol and ammunition during a raid in Hebron in the West Bank. On the same day, two Palestinians were arrested after infiltrating into southern Israel, through the security barrier with Gaza, reported the radio. Palestinian fishermen's captain, Nizar Ayyash, said that Israeli naval forces arrested nine fishermen working off the Gaza coasts, after surrounding the boats. All of whom belong to the same family. The Israeli forces took the fishermen to an Israeli port, Ayyash said. Israeli naval forces often apprehend and question Palestinian fishermen under the pretext of arms smuggling through the Gaza sea. Following a cease-fire agreement in August 2014 that ended a 50 days of offensive on Gaza, Israel allowed Palestinian fishermen to sail as far as six nautical miles offshore, and said would expand the allowed area gradually. IANS Islamabad: Pakistan Monday hanged the assassin of a governor who sought reform of the country's blasphemy law, said officials and supporters, saying Mumtaz Qadri feted as a hero by Islamist supporters had been executed at a prison in Rawalpindi. "I can confirm that Qadri was hanged in Adialia jail early Monday morning," said a senior local police official Sajjid Gondal. A prison official confirmed the execution of Qadri, a former police bodyguard who killed liberal Punjab governor Salman Taseer in 2011. Around 50 Rangers and police in riot gear as well as ambulances and dozens of police vehicles were stationed outside Qadri's home in the city early Monday, an AFP reporter there said, blocking the street and refusing to allow people to enter. Armed Rangers could be seen stationed on the roof of the building housing Qadri's residence and some roads in the neighbourhood were closed. Cries were heard from inside the house as around 20 people gathered, apparently family members, and mosques could be heard broadcasting news of the execution. "We have beefed up security in Rawalpindi to maintain law and order and to deal with any untoward situation," Gondal said. He said the hanging took place after a final meeting between Qadri and his family late Sunday, and that the body had been sent to his relatives. Qadri shot Taseer 28 times in broad daylight in an upscale market in the capital Islamabad. He later admitted the killing, saying he objected to the politician's calls to reform Pakistan's controversial blasphemy laws. Taseer had also been vocal in his support of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who has been on death row since 2010 after being found guilty of insulting the Prophet Mohammed. Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in Pakistan, an Islamic republic of some 200 million, and Qadri has been hailed as a hero by many conservatives eager to drown out any calls to soften the legislation. Critics including European governments say Pakistan's blasphemy laws are largely misused, with hundreds of people languishing in jails under false charges. Qadri's lawyers drew on Islamic texts to argue that he was justified in killing Taseer, saying that by criticising the law the politician was himself guilty of blasphemy an argument rejected by the lead judge. Qadri lost a petition for the Supreme Court to review his sentence in December last year. The decision came after the court warned in October that in Islam a false accusation can be as serious as the blasphemy itself, and that calls for blasphemy law reform "ought not to be mistaken as a call for doing away with that law". The court's decision to uphold the sentence sparked rallies in which Islamist groups said that if Qadri were executed those responsible should also be put to death. AFP By Abhijnan Rej The history of mankind is the instant between two strides taken by a traveller Franz Kafka, The Blue Octavo Notebooks Introduction As the geopolitical centre of gravity shifts back to the Eurasian landmass after the brief interlude between 1989 and 2001, of the unipolar moment the question that emerges for strategists is how to maximise national power under the precondition of geopolitical stability in inner Asia and its rims. Former United States national security advisor Zbigniew Brzezinski defined geostrategy as the strategic management of geopolitical interests. (1) This essay defines geoeconomics as the economic management of such interests where the notion of balance of power is broadened by balance of influence. It argues that an Asian Century is one where Asia emerges as a connected entity which will, in turn, ensure geopolitical stability at the inter- or intra-continental levels. But if connectivityunderstood in all its manifestations: physical, policy, digital or human is a geoeconomic imperative, it is also a key determinant of national power which fuels socio-economic growth at home. As India seeks to grow with a stated reliance on international trade, connecting itself to the world becomes a key way in which its main domestic goals of rapid poverty alleviation and ex ante provision of opportunities are served. The question of regional connectivity can thus be framed in terms of bridging domestic goals and geopolitical ambitions. The discourse around Asian connectivity so far has been primarily focused on the Chinese One Belt, One Road (OBOR) initiative that proposes to link the two flanks of the Eurasian landmass both through land (the Belt) and sea (the Road). China watchers over the past year can attest to the financial and political will Chinas leadership has shown towards pushing OBOR. As India asserts itself as a confident power conscious of its geographical centrality in South Asia, it too has sought to transform the region into a loose economic confederation, beginning with its leadership in the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (Saarc), created in 1985; its interest in creating a Bay of Bengal economic forum the Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (Bimstec) initiative is an example; and its outreach to the Association of Southeast Asian Nations. The physical pipelines, highways and sea routes is only one aspect of connectivity. If physical connectivity is made to work to the advantage of all parties, it should be predicated by policy connectivity a set of institutions and formal and informal norms that facilitate and harmonise the flow of labour, capital and goods. Indeed, it is argued in this essay that there ought to be a feedback and feed-forward loop between the software of policy and the hardware of infrastructure, to rephrase David Dollar. (2) The recent geoeconomic component of the US Asia-Pacific rebalance, the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), seeks to provide the software; the hardware of physical links is being, almost exclusively, being promoted by the Chinese. One expects that as OBOR progresses, China will also introduce a set of norms, albeit informally, on top of the existing mega-free trade agreements (FTAs) in Eurasia. Thus, the real geoeconomic competition that will define Asia in the 21st Century will be between the two drivers of connectivity in the region: the actors who shape norms and the ones who provide the infrastructure. Connectivity Constellations in the Geoeconomic Order Both physical and policy connectivity initiatives have to be situated in the contemporary geoeconomic architecture. This is characterised by the two drivers of the new normal: a China that is in retreat in terms of its domestic growth and yet on an ascent when it comes to playing a greater and more muscular role in establishing new international institutions and initiatives; and a US that has finally put the global financial crisis of 2007-2009 behind it and has sought to aggressively reshape the Asian trade agenda as a strategic policy to rebalance the Asia Pacific. Chinas opening outwards, as it calls the OBOR initiative, is driven by three domestic problems that it seeks to redress. One, Chinas economy is experiencing a significant slowdown after a couple of decades of very high growth rates. As it moves from exporting manufactured goods to a path of economic growth driven by domestic consumption, China will most definitely experience problems associated with industrial overcapacity. The OBOR initiative seeks to absorb some of this. (3) Two, as William Overholt wrote last year, Beijings massive accumulation of foreign reserves was a major strategic error, and OBOR will act as redressal. (4) Three, China seeks to correct its persistent problems with total factor productivity by an increased focus on innovation in high-end manufacturing. OBOR states will act as natural markets for Chinese innovation, as well as provide cheap labour that will feed the lower ends of China-designed global value chains. The TPP, signed last year by 12 countries, represents a more balanced American rebalance in the Asia Pacific. The US Pivot to Asia had, for far too long, focussed exclusively on military capacity; with the TPP, it seeks to dramatically expand its economic presence in the region as well. US Defence Secretary Ashton Carter famously noted last year that the TPP was worth an aircraft carrier the strategic component is thus far from being understated. But equally present in the American calculation is the diminishing role of the World Trade Organization (WTO) as the final arbiter of international trade. With the Doha Development Agenda finally buried in the December 2015 WTO Ministerial Meeting in Nairobi, the US will seek other ways to shape global trade regimes. The TPP with its intrusive and extensive behind-the-border measures that run the gamut from labour to environmental standards along with the under-discussion Transatlantic Trade and Investment Partnership (TTIP), seeks to reengineer the global trade architecture as economic containment of China. The shape of the geoeconomic order that is emerging is clear. China seeks to push physical connectivity before policy connectivity. The US, having failed at promoting its own version of the Silk Route under then Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, is now left to push policy connectivity along the lines of TPP and TTIP alone. If connectivity is indeed destiny, in the words of geostrategist Parag Khanna, it will be shaped by the push and pull between its hardware and software. Beyond any security challenges OBOR poses for India, as a physical economic connectivity project it is unprecedented. It seeks to link, by land and sea, the western flank of Eurasia to the eastern, connecting more than 60 countries at the last count. Indeed, if Indonesia is where OBOR was co-announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping in 2013, Europe [too] wants in, in the words of Francois Godement. (5) China has put aside $40 billion for the Silk Road Fund, and seeks an equal amount from the new Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank towards OBOR. The maritime component of the initiative, the Maritime Silk Route, will stretch beyond the Eurasian landmass and seek to connect with Africa. OBOR can also be viewed as a culmination of a variety of China-led initiatives, such as the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor, various arrangements under the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the proposed Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar connectivity project, and the China-Mongolia-Russia corridor. (6) One of the goals of OBOR, as stated above, is physical connectivity that seeks to create alternative global value chains where China becomes the locus of innovation. But at the same time, it passes through some of the most politically unstable regions of the world, in South, Central and West Asia. The world has, speaking candidly, bought Chinas peaceful rise narrative mainly because of remarkable self-restraint exercised by China in terms of non-interference as it sought to expand its economic interests. As China continues to push OBOR, this will be severely tested, and will become the arbiter of the projects success in the long run. Ultimately, the lack of explicit policy connectivity underlying OBOR will mean that any Chinese hard intervention to secure the Belt and Road will be unilateral and contrary to the image China has promoted for itself. India in the connectivity New Normal Where does India fit in these emerging connectivity constellations? The answer can be broken down to the why and the how. The why is, in many ways, the simpler aspect to answer. One, as Indias economy seeks greater integration into the world more than 40 percent of Indias GDP is through international trade it becomes paramount that it is networked, both physically and in terms of shaping the norms and practices of global trade. This will inevitably call for shedding some prejudices when it comes to security concerns, real and imagined, something this essay turns to later. Two, as is known from literature on international bargaining, a state either becomes an agenda-maker as a first mover, or ends up being an agenda-taker. Not participating in the Chinese and/or American initiatives at their formative stages risks India being left out much in the same way it was in the second wave of globalisation of the 1980s. Three, the failure of the single undertaking Doha Development Agenda and the ascent of mega-FTAs point to a diminishing role of the WTO and simultaneous increasingly larger role of arrangements such as the draft US Trade in Services Agreement, along with TPP and TTIP, that are shaped by plurilateral consensus. It becomes imperative that India engage with these arrangements. For those who imagine the still-to-be-finalised Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership as a counterweight to TPP, the low ambition levels of the former could very well render it ineffective as such. Plurilateral policy connectivity as a pathway to larger multilateralism that integrates Indias economy selectively then becomes the only way forward in this new normal. Four, both Beijing and New Delhi share the Hormuz Dilemma. From the energy security point of view, it becomes important that India routes some of its energy needs through land pipelines. The recent progress on the Turkmenistan-Afghanistan-Pakistan-India (TAPI) pipeline is a welcome development, with an added bonus: By integrating Pakistan and Afghanistan into a single initiative with India, TAPI can become the harbinger of better ties between India and its immediate neighbours. Coming to the how, it goes without saying that the fiscal capacities of Beijing and New Delhi are vastly different at present, so an Indian version of OBOR is little more than a pipe dream. Indias options essentially boil down to promoting plurilateral physical connectivity in the Indian Subcontinent, buttressed by co-opting regional components of OBOR but in a way that does not compromise its core national security interests. The Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal (BBIN) initiative is a signature example of a physical connectivity initiative built on top of policy convergence. The BBIN initiative is broad-based, contained in scope and consultative in design. (A separate essay in this volume focuses exclusively on it.) An exclusively policy connectivity initiative, albeit at a low-ambition level, is Bimstec. Often viewed as Saarc sans Pakistan, it could serve as a natural entity to facilitate further trade in the Bay of Bengal region. Setting environmental concerns aside, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands could emerge as a regional shipping hub for Bimstec in the future. But these initiatives are, welcome as they may be, too small in scale to fully serve Indias connectivity interests. This is where co-opting OBOR becomes a very important part of Indias geoeconomic strategy. The Indian argument against OBOR is clear, and is largely driven by two concerns. One, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor complicates Indias strategic environment seriously not to mention that it legitimises Pakistans occupation of Kashmir. Two, for Chinas Maritime Silk Route to fructify, India would have to allow for greater Chinese naval presence in the Indian Ocean which would, in turn, nullify the strategic advantage India has there. India can, however, creatively reimagine OBOR, and sell it to China as such, in a way that either or both concerns are mitigated even as the two countries connectivity objectives remain intact. One potential strategy to address the first concern would be the following. (7) India should mitigate Beijings Malacca Dilemma by offering to co-develop an Indian port in the Arabian Sea through the Sagarmala initiative, connect this port through a land-based economic corridor centred around a highway that links the west of India to Kolkata, and finally greenlight through all rungs of the Indian bureaucracy the Bangladesh-China-India-Myanmar component of OBOR that will link Kolkata to Kunming. This way, CPECs attractiveness is reduced without compromising the Chinese objectives that had taken them to Gwadar in the first place. By building a land highway running parallel to the Tropic of Cancer through the heart of India, this corridor can be controlled by New Delhi at will, thus vastly diminishing any strategic use of the same by Beijing unlike a land corridor through Indias Northeast, for example. Conclusion This essay has laid down the geoeconomic imperatives for Asian connectivity from an Indian perspective. As has been argued, India ought to engage plurilaterally when it comes to both physical and policy connectivity initiatives, without forsaking the benefits that come from leveraging Chinese and American initiatives as well as without compromising core security interests. This might sound like a tall order. How might India do all this, given its rather limited fiscal ability? The answer lies in revisiting David Dollars metaphor of physical infrastructure as the hardware of connectivity and policy connectivity initiatives such as free/preferential trade agreements as the software. In a computer, the hardware and software interface at the middleware, which connects the operating system that drives the hardware to more complex software applications. India ought to be that middleware in the new geoeconomic architecture. To explain this point further: Indias foreign policy, (strangely) free from any domestic impetus, was activist-internationalist for most of the post-independence era. Whatever be the costs of this posture and there were indeed many it did win India a certain goodwill throughout the erstwhile Third World. By pragmatically engaging both Beijing, the supplier of the hardware of connectivity, and Washington, the maker of the software of new norms, and cashing in on its goodwill from the non-alignment era, India can emerge as an honest broker between the two powers and shape competing visions at the same time. If connectivity is what would make Asia an entity in its fullest sense, New Delhi must realise that its real strength lies in this role. ------ Other references (1) Zbigniew Brzezinski, The Grand Chessboard: American Primacy and Its Geostrategic Imperatives (New York: Basic Books, 1997), xiv (2) David Dollar, Chinas Rise as a Regional and Global Power, Horizons, Summer 2015, 164 (3) Chinas One Belt, One Road: The Land Strategies, Part 2 of 2, BNP Paribas, 8 July, 2015 (4) William H. Overholt, Posture Problems Undermining One Belt, One Road and the US Pivot, Global Asia, Fall 2015, 16 (5) Francois Godement, Europe Stands to Benefit from Chinas 21st Century Silk Road, Global Asia, Fall 2015, 35 (6) Alain Guidetti, Confront or Accommodate? The Maritime Silk Road Will Test US-China Rivalries, Global Asia, Fall 2015, 43 (7) Samir Saran and Abhijnan Rej, Engage the Dragon on Balochistan, The Times of India, February 4, 2016 This is part of a series of special essays brought to you by Firstpost ahead of the #Raisina Dialogue that begins in New Delhi on Tuesday. #Raisina is India's first MEA sponsored global conclave on geopolitics and geoeconomics, Firstpost is the media partner. By Arun Mohan Sukumar Any country that aspires to be a cyber power must concern itself with two questions: First, does it secure the data of its systems, networks and users, and second, whether law enforcement agencies can effectively retrieve such data for legitimate purposes. The first concern is a property of the countrys approach to data protection, and the second, its proclivity to intercept data. Where the private sector plays a crucial role in the digital economy, it is incumbent on businesses to protect the data of their users and consumers. Where governments use digital networks to provide e-governance services, its mandate is also to protect the integrity of sensitive user data from any outside intrusion. On the other hand, the license to intercept data is purely a prerogative of governments, conferred by appropriate legislation. This is a neat theoretical demarcation, but increasingly, private sector players are using data protection technologies to secure data from all players, including law enforcement agencies. Three factors have contributed to this situation: The Snowden revelations, which suggested that governments where the rule of law is strong too are susceptible to mass surveillance. On this count, the leaks broke a cozy compact between governments and the private sector everywhere, changing the rules of the digital economy irreversibly. The realisation that technology can contribute to security by design, thereby making all physical devices agnostic to intrusion requests, whether from a cyber criminal, hacker or law enforcement authority. The lack of common legal standards for data protection and lawful interception across jurisdictions. Rather than looking to comply with varying national laws, the private sector is evolving its own set of norms, led by a select few global companies. The bundling of law enforcement agencies into a motley mix of actorscriminals, hackers, cyber militias and business competitorsposes an unusual problem. How will cops solve cases where electronic evidence is encrypted and inaccessible to all but the user? Just as the private sector invests heavily in new technologies to enhance security, governments would channel their resources to buying exploits and developing countermeasures to encryptionin sum, rendering cyberspace as a whole unstable. This problem is particularly relevant to the Asia Pacific, which hosts the biggest concentration of internet users in the world. However, most data from the region is stored in the West. Faced with a lack of agency (given the net outflow of data) and the lack of technologies (in comparison to Western countries), Asian nation-states are faced with an existential question: Do we opt for freedoms or firewalls? The struggle between Apple and the US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) over access to the San Bernardino shooters iPhone highlights the varying priorities of the private sector vis-a-vis the government. The FBI sought access via a court warrant to the locked iPhone of Syed Rizwan Farooka citizen of the United States who in December 2015 killed 14 and injured scores in a mass shooting in Californiawhich Apple has refused to provide. Technologies that allow the FBI to force its way into the shooters iPhone will compromise the operating systems of all iPhones, Apples CEO Tim Cook argued in a letter to consumers. The legal precedent set by this case will be closely studied, but what lessons does the San Bernardino case hold for Asia, and particularly India, where Apples market share is less than one percent? To illustrate how the confrontation between Apple and FBI would play out in India, consider an example. Law schools across India illustrate the difference between culpable homicide and murder through the famous K.M. Nanavati case of 1961. Mr. Nanavati, a commander with the Indian Navy, was informed by his wife of her affair with Prem Ahuja and her desire to leave the marriage. An enraged Mr. Nanavati barged into Mr. Ahujas home, and after an angry exchange of words, shot and killed him. In the trial that followed, Mr. Nanavatis punishment swung on whether his act was pre-meditated. If it was, he would be guilty of murder. But were the shooting unplanned and truly a crime of passion, as the tabloids referred to it, Mr. Nanavati would be punished for the lesser offence of culpable homicide. The Supreme Court found him guilty of murder, but not after a protracted drama that involved a jury exonerating him. Let us tailor the Nanavati case to a modern setting. In the 2016 adaptation of the crime, the police retrieve Mr. Ahujas iPhone, which purportedly contains a draft tweet suggesting he feared for his life. The tweet was never published, and Mumbai cops need it to prove Mr. Nanavati had threatened him previously. The Information Technology Act (specifically, Section 69) confers sweeping powers on the Maharashtra government to retrieve such information but Twitter claims it cannot extract unpublished tweets. The cops turn to Apple with a request to unlock Mr. Ahujas phone, but Apple refuses, suggesting that building a backdoor for one iPhone will compromise the security of all. What options do the Mumbai police have? Apple is not an Indian company and can refuse to comply with Section 69 of the IT Act, claiming the provision violates California law (where Apple Inc. is based). Apple India Private Ltd, its Indian subsidiary, is registered under the Companies Act but mostly performs administrative and financial functions. Apple does not provide internet services, and has no software licensing agreement with Indian telecom operators. What is more, Indian developers whose content is featured in the App Store sign agreements directly with Apple Inc., the parent company. Short of proceeding legally against an Apple India Director or revoking its import licenseneither of which would be sound measuresthe Government of India has limited options to secure its compliance. For these reasons, the Indian debate over encryption is very different from the discussion that Apples ongoing tussle with the FBI has generated. Nevertheless, the episode offers two broad lessons. The first lesson is for Indian regulators: Find the right mix between protecting user data, while allowing law enforcement agencies to retrieve it for investigation. The US does not have high data protection standards, but law enforcement agencies have met with increasingly steep judicial barriersthanks to the Snowden revelationsto extract electronic data. As a result, companies like Apple have been encouraged to invest in strong encryption, as the evolution of its operating system iOS shows. India, on the other hand, has low data protection standards as well as low legal thresholds for intercepting information. Measures necessary to intercept information have had the unintended consequence of stalling the development of indigenous high-security devices like the iPhone. For instance, the Department of Telecommunications continues to prescribe low encryption standards for Internet Service Providers, while subjecting them to liability for attacks on the network. ISPs are faced with a Catch-22 situation, with little room to strengthen their security. The dangerous mix of low data protection standards and legal barriers against monitoring puts India in the bottom quadrant of Table 1, alongside China. The second lesson is for internet companies based abroad: co-operate with law enforcement agencies on legitimate requests for user data. Popular internet applications and social media platforms in India today are all based in the US or Europe, and host data in servers abroad. To unlock Mr. Ahujas iPhone for the Mumbai police, Apple would need to create a sophisticated backdoor to break its encryption protocols. This is an extraordinary instance, involving a drastic solution. But even in the majority of cases where Indian law enforcement agencies can solve crimes based on information available with data giants, their compliance with government requests has been abysmal. Research by Rebecca MacKinnon and Elonnai Hickok suggests the Indian government in 2013 placed 3,598 requests for user data from Facebook with a 53% compliance rate, while the US government made nearly 12,600 requests with a compliance rate of 81%. There is simply no basis or justification for the differential treatment of compliance requests but for the fact that Facebook is a US-based company. Given desperate times, the Indian government took desperate measures: In its draft encryption policy released (and withdrawn subsequently) last year, it sought backdoors into all internet applications based abroad. The Apple v. FBI debate in the US has generated much controversy because nearly half of Americas mobile users today own an iPhone. Encryption is commonplace, while courts, law enforcement agencies and tech companiesall based in the USdebate the optimal mix of interception and data protection. The Indian context is far from comparable. Most Indians, especially first generation internet users, own unencrypted devices. The competing pressures of the market have only contributed to the overall insecurity of Indias internet infrastructure. The rush towards cheap smartphones like Freedom 251whose vendors could not even offer a secure website to process phone bookingshave seriously compromised the integrity of user data. What is more, to secure their data and to retrieve it for investigation, Indian authorities need the assistance of foreign internet companies. There is no side to choose in this fight, since India needs its own variants of Apple and the FBI: high-security devices that protect data, and a law enforcement agency that can effectively retrieve electronic information. This is part of a series of special essays brought to you by Firstpost ahead of the #Raisina Dialogue that begins in New Delhi on Tuesday. #Raisina is India's first MEA sponsored global conclave on geopolitics and geoeconomics, Firstpost is the media partner. By Samir Saran and Abhijnan Rej Introduction Futurists often hedge their prognoses with Yogi Berra's dictum that prediction is difficult, especially when it comes to the future. And yet, when it comes to drawing the broad contours of how the future would look like in the medium-run, all one needs to do is revisit yesterdays news. The past year saw five meta-narratives emerge around asymmetries between means and abilities, multiplicities of malign and benign norms, and glaring contradictions between aspirations and capabilities. This is true in equal measures both at home and abroad. If predicting the future is a difficult exercise, doing so for Asia is doubly so. Looking at the continent, one sees certain centrifugal forces dominate the centripetal forces that would promote status quo ante when it comes to continuity of norms and practices. These forces correspond to five meta-trends the consolidation of geopolitical asymmetries; the rise of big economies that are poor in per capita terms and weak states with demographics which are double-edged swords; competing models of globalisation; the continued tug of war between the pre-modern and post-modern; and economic growth trajectories in which the fruits of innovation do not translate into rise in purchasing power. The era of dangerous asymmetries Asia is home to states that have significant military capabilities, but very limited stakes in the liberal international order. Such states cultivate hard military power and the consequent ability to upend the geostrategic status quo but have very little ability (and desire) to shape the collective economic order. From the global governance perspective, the challenge, therefore, is to discover means by which these military-maximalist states can be integrated further into international processes. Consider this. On one hand, out of the nine nuclear powers in the world, six are Asian, including Russia. On the other hand, Asia's share of global gross domestic product (GDP, computed at purchasing power parity levels) is only 35.6 percent, Russia included. The Russian atomic arsenal is actually bigger than that of the United States (US, at 7,500 weapons against 7,200) but its GDP is a small fraction of the US GDP. China has the world's largest military but it has only 3.8 percent of voting shares at the International Monetary Fund. Pakistan's nuclear arsenal can be put to apocalyptic use, and yet it remains a non-starter as a responsible player in global governance. Then there is North Korea, a nuclear power with absolutely zero stakes in global governance. This asymmetry between military capability and limited global governance stakes becomes more pronounced as one traverses Asia from the North to the South and from the West to the East. To integrate these states into an open world order, it becomes an imperative to further empower the few initiatives in which these states have a stake. For example, Russia has been enthusiastic about Brics (acronym for association of Brazil, Russia, India, China, South Africa) since it perceives the grouping as a balancing coalition. Irrespective of its perceptions, however, empowering Brics does increase Russias involvement in the global governance architecture. Big, poor, young and (in)capable: The rise of testosterone politics Two of the largest Asian economies, China and India, are poor in per capita terms, the middle-income tag notwithstanding. This tyranny of arithmetic is compounded by the fact that such big economies with relatively poor populations are also growing at the fastest rates. Such states also face significant demographic challenges in terms of growing old and young populations and gender imbalance. Traditionally, big economies that were also rich in per capita terms assumed significant responsibilities in managing global crises. Today's big and poor Asian countries are unable to respond similarly due to their understandable domestic development-first agendas. Demographics would continue to limit the commitments that these big and poor states can make to their own populations as well. The United Nations estimates that by 2050, India will have 300 million elderly, more than the current population of the US, while its median age will be 37. This means that the Indian state will have to provide for substantial young and old populations by then. How we design our institutional mechanisms today from pensions to skilling, from social sector redesign to incentivising market forces to play a greater role in what has been the province of the state will determine and foil the crowding-out of the old by the young in the future. If the rise of the young and the old is one challenge, gender imbalance is the other. Chinas preference for male children a deep-seated Asian prejudice has led to 118 boys for every 100 girls (against the global average of 103 to 107). Indias gender imbalance now stands as the worst in recorded history 93 girls to every 100 boys. This imbalance points to the rise of testosterone politics, where the voices and imperatives of men will crowd out those of women. They also point to the possibility of deep structural changes in the very fabric of Asian societies. The multiverse of Globalisation Between the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989 and the destruction of the New York World Trade Centre in 2001, there was broad consensus that Fukuyama's Last Man having arrived and overseen the end of Hegelian history, Globalisation (with an uppercase 'G') was the magic bullet that would lift billions out of poverty and be the vanguard of liberal internationalism. Things have not turned out to be as simple: What Asia is seeing now are multiple globalisations, characterised by exclusion of the Other. At the same time, the world is witnessing the rise of a Middle-Kingdom version of globalisation, promoted by China. In this version, China's opening outwards will create a physical web of land and sea routes linking inner China to Europe, cutting through the Asian heartland and the seas. Through its One Belt, One Road (OBOR) initiative, China seeks to export a model of authoritarianism at home and part of global value chains. The US-led Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), signed in 2015, is a reactive geoeconomic rebalance to OBOR, which seeks to homogenise trade and remake economic activity in the member-states in its own image. Both OBOR and the partial policy connectivity support, the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) will provide it and the TPP are similar in their exclusionary nature: The US is absent in RCEP, China in the TPP. Which universe would India choose to inhabit? Would it actively participate in the US-led one, as a Western power? (1) Would it be co-opted into China's vision? Or would it through the dent of soft power and influence create its own? The forthcoming years will see answers emerging. Digital engagements, feudal mindsets The state is back. The patriot is back. The misogynist is back. One of the paradoxical features of the social media explosion is that it consolidates the obnoxious and the obsolete instead of transplanting us into a virtual classless international utopia as it was billed. One of the reasons behind this is premature de-industrialisation that promoted a leapfrogging from the pre-modern to the post-modern. Whether it is the use of matrimonial sites in India to arrange marriages according to class and caste lines, or the remarkable efficacy of Twitter as free advertising for the Islamic State, social media has consolidated old prejudices instead of upending them. Authoritarian states have learned apres China that the best way to contain the challenges of social media is by selective and tailored access. The Chinese are happy with Weibo because it offers the surrogacy of experience; the Communist Party of China exists, because of its total control over it. These bring up an important point. Karl Popper famously identified ideologies such as Marxism as enemies of open societies; could the cult of the Digital in the sense of being a pawn of constricting mindsets be another one? Fissuring of the link between innovation and consumption That innovation is key to economic growth is now recognised. The role of technology innovation in increasing individual purchasing power and consumption, however, is becoming weaker than ever, thanks to the ever-important role of global value chains. Simply put, the fruits of innovation, originating in advanced economies, are not contributing to the upliftment of consumers of high-end technology, mostly in poor countries in the global South. The Fordist model of industrial organisation was such that the fruits of innovation the assembly line, to begin with translated to higher incomes for workers, which in turn made them consumers of the very products they were manufacturing. This virtuous cycle promoted higher standards of living and incentivised continuous innovation. The breakdown of this cycle necessitates course-correction for the current technology and intellectual property rights regimes. Conclusion The five meta-trends identified here can be situated within five crises of global governance the world faces today.(2) These crises are of legitimacy of international institutions and even national governments failing to deliver lifeline support to their populations; of sovereignty the ongoing clash between the state and the world; of the collective the push-and-pull of aggregation and devolution; of identity where globalisation, instead of dissolving identities, consolidates it; and finally, of representation where the global South finds itself with a disproportionately small voice in the global governance architecture. The crises of legitimacy and the collective have led to multiplicities of globalisation. The crises of identity have led to the hijacking of information and communication technology to promote global extremism a la the Islamic State. The crisis of sovereignty is reflected by the unenviable choices members of mega-free trade agreements such as the TPP face. Finally, the crisis of legitimacy points to nations that have great power to harm the international order without fulfilling their basic domestic obligations. One needs to watch how these crises are resolved in the coming years if at all to determine Asias, and the worlds, trajectory. ------- Other references (1) C Raja Mohan, India and the Balance of Power, Foreign Affairs, July/August 2006, 18 (2) Samir Saran, The Global Crisis of Governance: India's Options in a Polycentric World (Lecture at the Nehru Memorial Library, 7 October, 2015) This is part of a series of special essays brought to you by Firstpost ahead of the #Raisina Dialogue that begins in New Delhi on Tuesday. #Raisina is India's first MEA sponsored global conclave on geopolitics and geoeconomics, Firstpost is the media partner. Moscow: Russian police wrestled to the ground a woman in a hijab brandishing the severed head of a child outside a Moscow metro station on Monday and charged her with murder, in an incident that stirred fears of an Islamist terrorist attack. The macabre episode was caught on camera by passers-by, with footage showing the unnamed woman in a black hijab wandering around in the street holding an infant's severed head high in the air. "I am a terrorist, I want your death," she can be heard screaming in heavily accented Russian in a rambling tirade in which she appears to criticise democracy and talk about the end of the world. Investigators said they thought the woman had been working as a nanny for a Moscow family and had murdered a child in her care before setting fire to the family's flat and fleeing. The child was three or four years old, they said. "Given the clearly deranged behaviour of the detainee, investigators swiftly ordered her to undergo psychiatric tests to establish whether she is capable of understanding the significance of her actions," Moscow's investigative committee said in a statement. News agencies cited an unnamed police source as saying the woman appeared to have been under the influence of psychotropic drugs. Immigration authorities told media the woman was from the former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan and had been working in Moscow illegally. Terror fears With frequent warnings from government officials about the danger that Islamic State militants pose to Russia and a long history of terrorist attacks in Moscow, some onlookers thought they were witnessing an act of terror. One eyewitness, a reporter from the RBC.ru news portal, said she heard the woman screaming "Allahu Akbar" (Islamic phrase meaning God is Great or Allah is Greater). "I was on my way to the metro station from home," Polina Nikolskaya, the reporter, told Reuters. "She was standing near the metro entrance and caught my attention because she was screaming Allahu Akbar. I saw that she had a bloodied head in her arms, but I thought it was not real. People in the crowd said it was real." Lifenews.ru, an online news portal with close contacts to the police, said a policeman had first approached the woman to check her documents near the Oktyabrskoye Pole metro station in the north-west of the Russian capital. The woman had responded by removing the child's head from a bag and shouting that she had killed the infant, it said, saying she had also threatened to blow herself up. Footage of the incident showed a policeman wrestling the woman to the ground before a group of colleagues helped restrain her. Some rights activists warned of a possible backlash against migrant workers from Central Asia who have in the past been targeted for beatings by far-right groups. Security services are on high alert for a possible terrorist attack after a Russian passenger plane was blown out of the sky above Egypt in October, killing all 224 people onboard. Islamic State said it was responsible and had acted to avenge the Kremlin's decision to launch air strikes in Syria. The sister of Australian actor Samuel Johnson has publicly dressed him down him for failing to consult her before announcing his retirement to focus on their charity. The star of TV mini-series Molly revealed on Thursday he intended to give up his 25-year career via the Facebook page of his breast cancer fundraising charity, Love Your Sister. Johnson, 38, has raised $2.3 million for cancer research with his Canberra-based sister Connie, who was diagnosed with terminal breast cancer when she was 33. Q&A, an equal opportunity clearing house for the cockamamie and the well-considered, is always there to remind us of one thing: on same-sex marriage, the nation is engaged but rather nervous about the ceremony. Some of the rellos are sure to make a scene. Who, for example, is going to sit next to Lyle Shelton, that rare wedding guest of whom it could be said that he'd be quite nice if he had a few more drinks. Rest assured, he's a handful sober. As the Australian Christian Lobby boss reminded us with his presence on Monday night: if you ordered the beef, he'd cite a dodgy study in favour of the chicken, question the parentage of the fish, then complain about the music. And don't start him on the free-for-all in the loos. But here's the reality check, brought home in stark clarity on a program almost entirely dominated by Shelton pre-occupations, best contained under the umbrella subject, Your Genitals And What Works For Me. Get used to it. All of us will have him in our ears over the year ahead, assuming the government's plan to resolve the marriage equality question goes ahead. The word "resolve" is applied loosely, and "plan" has also had better days. The idea for a plebiscite was a government policy almost no one had seriously considered right up until it became obvious it was (a) stupid and (b) a government policy. This was music to the ears of Mr Shelton and the ACL, eyeing a bonanza of bigotry perhaps fuelled by a truckload of taxpayer dollars. When you are the fighting force for a position supported by roughly one in four of the population, that's money for some pretty dodgy jam. An Australian journalist is reeling after actor Rebel Wilson launched a scathing and highly public attack on her, tweeting her image and branding her "total scum". Freelance writer Elizabeth Wilson said she was "beyond distraught" at the series of tweets, which began on Friday with the damning message: "If your name is Elizabeth Wilson and you work for ACP Magazines, just know that you are a disgrace for harassing my sweet, sick grandma." Rebel Wilson branded not one but two Australian journalists named Elizabeth Wilson "total scum". Credit:Getty Images The Australian actor followed her tweet by posting an image of the woman she believed to be Elizabeth, with the comment, "Here she is: total scum". However, the picture was of another journalist, a features editor with House & Garden magazine also named Elizabeth Wilson. Two former policemen are accused of carrying out an execution on a Tuesday. By Thursday, they were drinking beer and rubbing shoulders with a professional boxer. Socialising: From left to right, Glen McNamara, Joe Calamia, Roger Rogerson and Gary Windred at a boxing bout in February 2014. A group have told a NSW Supreme Court jury how they shared beers with murder accused Glen McNamara and Roger Rogerson, two days after they allegedly killed Sydney university student Jamie Gao on May 20, 2014. Among the group that was drinking that night was boxer Garth Wood. Hundreds of migrants and refugees tried to break through a border fence into Macedonia from Greece Monday as frustrations boiled over at restrictions imposed on people moving through the Balkans. Macedonian police fired tear gas as a group of some 300 Iraqis and Syrians forced their way through a Greek police cordon and raced towards a railway track between the two countries. "Open the borders!" they shouted as a group of men used a metal sign post to bring down a section of barbed wire fencing into Macedonia, prompting police to fire volleys of tear gas and preventing them from crossing. At least 30 people, including many children, requested first aid, the charity Doctors of the World said. The crossing is next to the main transit point for refugees traveling towards western Europe. Close to 10,000 people have been stranded in the small transit camp designed to hold 2,500 for brief stays. Struggling with limited resources to house migrants itself, Macedonia had briefly closed its border last week, only to re-open it but with much stricter controls, allowing only a few hundred people to pass through over the weekend - not enough to alleviate the constant influx of new arrivals as thousands come to the Greek mainland by ferries and immediately head north. In a sign of widening divisions within the European Union, German Chancellor Angela Merkel lashed out at Austria and Balkan states for abandoning debt-laden Athens to refugee chaos. Calais, France Meanwhile, in Calais, France, workers began pulling down tents and makeshift shelters in a sprawling refugee camp, dismantling the fragile structures that have served as temporary homes for migrants hoping to make their way to Britain. A flashpoint on the edge of the Channel, the camp sprang up less than a year ago in the port city, which has both ferries and the Eurotunnel rail route to Britain. It has grown explosively in past months amid Europe's migrant crisis, fueling far-right sentiment in both Britain and France. Some 4,000 people are estimated to live in the camp - down from 6,000 in December. Calais has lived with migrants in its midst for years, but the current camp on the city's edge sprang up around a day center opened last April by the state - and after small camps inside the city were bulldozed. The dismantling of the dense southern portion of the current camp would be the largest such operation the city has known. Scores of riot police stood guard, keeping journalists and volunteers out as helmeted workers tackled the shelters one by one. A consequential energy case that cuts to the heart of the delicate balance between state and federal regulation of electricity markets in the United States made its way to the U.S. Supreme Court last week. This is the third high-profile legal battle within the last year to define the turf of the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission, the agency empowered to oversee wholesale transactions on the U.S. electricity market. The combined opinions from the three cases are expected to help clarify the boundaries between FERCs authority and that of the states in a rapidly evolving energy sector where deregulation and a burst of new technologies and business models are revolutionizing the industry. But thats no easy task. "The fact that the court has taken three different cases involving jurisdiction over the electric grid within a year shows how difficult it is to define [that] dividing line," said Joel Eisen, a law professor at the University of Richmond. At issue in Hughes v. Talen Energy Marketing and CVP Maryland, LLC v. Talen Energy Marketing is whether a Maryland program that incentivizes new power generation improperly cuts into FERCs authority. If so, that would violate the Federal Power Act, which effectively limits states to regulating retail rates and sales. The recent shift to giant regional electricity markets that use complex pricing and supply-calculating mechanisms is a major factor blurring the line between the commissions arm and that of the states. "Many assume a jurisdictional bright line between FERC and the states, but with a modernizing grid the reality is more likely to be shared authority between the two," Eisen said. "The issue in Hughes is how far a state can go in promoting power plants when its actions might impact the wholesale markets," he said. Court saves the Smart Grid In a consequential 6-2 ruling last month cheered by environmentalists, the high court came down in favor of the commission and its energy conservation scheme known as "demand-response" the idea that big companies can receive rebates for using less electricity when demand on the power grid is high. The rule has been around for years and has been credited with helping create a more technologically advanced "smart grid" that keeps costs down and avoids blackouts. "Get paid to reduce electricity demand? Use on-site generators to supplement the grid during hot summer days? Allow community solar and energy storage to earn the same market price as natural gas or nuclear power generators? The Supreme Court has now opened the door to all of this," wrote Pennsylvania State Universitys Seth Blumsack recently for U.S. News & World Report. Trade groups representing utilities and power suppliers challenged the demand-response regulation, saying it operated at the retail level and so was beyond the reach of federal power. Justice Elena Kagan rejected that argument, saying the regulation affected retail sales only incidentally. That case, Federal Energy Regulatory Commission v. Electric Power Supply Association, and the first, Oneok v. Learjet, set the stage for this weeks round. FERC turf war: round three The high courts decision to take the combined Maryland cases signals the justices intent to clarify whether federal law regulating wholesale electricity pricing bars states from subsidizing specific power generation facilities in an effort to build more capacity. The 4th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals said it does, upholding a decision invalidating Marylands contract with Competitive Power Ventures, LLC, which won a bid to construct a new natural gas plant in the state. Marylands scheme offered CPV a fixed, 20-year contract to buy electricity once it built the new facility. But some other power providers competing in the same mid-Atlantic wholesale market filed a complaint against Marylands arrangement, and a similar one in New Jersey. Led by Talen Energy Marketing, the competing generators sued Marylands Public Service Commission, arguing its subsidized bidding scheme artificially suppresses wholesale prices on the mid-Atlantic market and intrudes on FERCs authority. The pricing issue dominated discussion at the high court, and the complex rules of the countrys regional energy markets appeared to baffle many of the justices. "I'll try this once more. I'm not quite on top of how this thing works," said Justice Stephen Breyer, as the courtroom broke out in laughter. Realizing his attempts to summarize the inner workings of the mid-Atlantic wholesale energy market were likely failing, Breyer looked up at Talen's lawyer, Paul Clement, and paused. "Oh, he's shaking his head. So, I haven't got that right either," Breyer said dryly to more laughter. Despite the difficulties, the justices appeared to have little sympathy for Marylands argument that its actions did not intrude on federal authority by effectively pricing-out competing bids in the mid-Atlantic market. "Virtually every justice seemed firmly convinced that the Maryland law provided a subsidy above the market rate and interfered with the FERC-approved pricing scheme," Eisen said. "Once the justices appeared to decide that this particular law is invalid, the real question becomes how far a state can go in promoting power plants," he said. The stakes are high. States argue that their ability to ensure appropriate power generation is in jeopardy, while some utilities contend that the program is illegal and unfairly distorts costs. The Court of First Instance (TJB) has sentenced a man to a seven-month suspended prison sentence for intimidation of an anti-smoking inspector on duty, MASTV reported. The man, identified as Chen, was caught smoking near Fai Chi Kei by the tobacco control officer. He subsequently refused to cooperate with the law, even threatening one of the officers. The police were called by the inspector for assistance. In addition to the suspended prison sentence, the TJB announced in the verdict that the accused will be required to pay MOP6,000 to the victim. The opening ceremony of an exhibition showcasing the drawings and lithographic prints of French-Spanish artist Charles Chauderlot was held last week at Creative Macau. The exhibition showcases the vision of Charles Chauderlot in which he combines elements of Chinese and Western art techniques through a series of scenes depicting architecture in Macau and Lisbon. The architectural style between both cities is so similar that in some of Chauderlots drawings, were it not for discreet indicators such as low-hanging overhead telephone wires or signs in Chinese characters, it might be impossible to tell which sketches were of which city. Chauderlot visited Lisbon a few years ago and painted some architectural scenes as he does in Macau. Once he returned to Macau, where he has lived for the best part of the last 10 years, he noticed striking similarities between drawings of both cities. This realization prompted the artist to assemble a collection comprised of seven drawings from each city. My inspiration is to open peoples eyes to the similarities of the two cities, he told the Times at the exhibitions opening ceremony. His works demonstrate a mix of Chinese and Western techniques. As explained to the Times, the brush strokes, the use of ink and the concept of the white or blank space in his drawings are all of Chinese origin. The precise representation of perspective and geometrically accurate shadows are typical of Western artistic styles. The combination reminds him of the special taste of the tobaccos of my pipe; [a] mixture of different tobaccos, as the program available at the exhibition notes. In many ways his fusion of East and West finds an appropriate home in Macau. There are many examples of cross-cultural styles [here in Macau], and they are a legacy of the Portuguese, he told the Times, explaining that the Portuguese settlers incorporated the local culture in their colonial architecture. Chauderlot points to examples of the Chinese inspiration in Macau architecture and Malay-style wooden houses in Malacca, when the enclave was under Portuguese administration. Chauderlot was born in Madrid in 1952 and started to paint at the age of 11 with the help of a Fine Art Academy teacher. He has held 10 solo exhibitions and participated in more than 50 national and international exhibitions, receiving numerous awards during the course of his career. The artist moved to Beijing in 1997 where he started to paint with Chinese ink, and in 2002, he was granted a pass to paint hidden treasures in sections of the Forbidden City. His exhibition will be on display until March 19. Admission is free. Part of the sales will be donated to the Society for the Protection of Animals (Anima). Daniel Beitler Local writer Pierre Wong attended the 2016 Taipei International Book Exhibition, saying during his lecture that Macau could produce influential literature. During his lecture, titled Supporting Role and Being at the Margin Writing Status in Macau, Wong discussed the conditions for producing literature in Macau, which he considers rather barren. He added that this is an environment in which it is hard for a writer to persevere. Macau is small, and small places can have great stories. It is important that we write stories with Macau as a background. Wongs novels are mostly based on reflections of society, with characters who represent the cultural personalities inherent in each local citizen. According to Wong, Macau used to be a small city with a slow harmonized pace, but of recent times people from Macau have become impulsive. Sands Resorts Cotai Strip Macao hosted the annual Sales Excellence Awards gala dinner last week at The Venetian Macau. The event was held to recognize the contributions made by trade partners to the success of the integrated resort throughout 2015. A total of 13 sales and marketing awards were presented to trade partners in the leisure and MICE industries in recognition of their efforts. GZL International Travel Service Ltd took home four awards, while Juventude International Travel Ltd was named the Top Sales Performer of The Year Other Region for The Venetian for the second time. The annual award ceremony, attended by over 150 guests representing approximately 100 companies, plays a vital part in the business philosophy of Sands Resorts Cotai Strip Macau by developing and nurturing business relationships with trade partners, says a press release issued by Sands. Scores of residents gathered on Coloanes hiking trails on Saturday afternoon to oppose the proposed 100-meter skyscraper planned for Coloanes hill. Demonstrators say that the building will exhaust the last bit of greenery remaining in Macau. According to the protests organizers, approximately forty people participated, demanding that the government release more information on the proposed residential building and that they hold a public hearing to determine the opinions of local residents. The planned skyscraper threatens to diminish what is considered to be the citys last park area, despite the governments assurance on multiple occasions that the area would be protected as an ecological reserve. Authorities have not yet approved the project. They say they are still waiting on an environmental impact assessment, but protestors insisted that the government should also take the concerns of the public into consideration. Agnes Lam, president of Macao Civic Power, which organized the protest, told the Times that an earlier demonstration in 2013 had pressured the government into appearing to freeze the project, at least until the implementation of the new land law. However, she stressed that today there remains general confusion among the public as to the status of the environmental impact assessment and a suspicion regarding how the development plans might be edged forward, despite the governments pledge to protect the area. Another concern according to Lam is that the environmental impact could be considerable. She added that it was difficult to forecast accurately because we dont know how many buildings will be subsequently constructed on the site [if it is approved]. It will hurt the wildlife there, because of the destruction [of the greenery] and the noise that may scare birds away, Lam said. Even just a few buildings could obstruct sunshine from parts of the forest. Environmental activists participating in the Coloane trail protest told TDM that what they fear most is a chain reaction triggered by the construction of the residential skyscraper, which could lead to a further contraction of Macaus green space. [The government] can start other residential building projects on other mountains, and they gradually, step by step, destroy all the green-lung areas in Macau and take away what Macau residents deserve, Macau Green Student Union president Joe Chan told the broadcaster. In previous demonstrations, activists have highlighted what they consider to be an unfair privatization of land, which could potentially restrict the ability of residents to enjoy the outdoor space and scenery. Staff reporter At least six people were detained on Friday in connection with a suspected case of corruption under investigation by the Commission Against Corruption (CCAC). One of them was the former Prosecutor General of the Public Prosecutions Office, Ho Chio Meng. Ho Chio Meng had been the regions top prosecutor after the handover until 2014, when he was replaced and became deputy prosecutor. In February 2015, he was appointed as coordinator of the Committee on Criminal and Legal Studies, the major roles of which are to monitor the development of legal and judicial reforms on criminal matters, and to propose related suggestions and revisions. Ho Chio Meng has on several occasions been considered a potential candidate for the position of Chief Executive, a possibility that he never denied. During a press conference held yesterday at the CCAC, Commissioner Andre Cheong said that five of the people involved in the suspected corruption case are the former prosecutor [Ho Chio Meng], the former prosecutors chief of cabinet [Antonio Lai], one office advisor and several local entrepreneurs. From the local entrepreneurs [who hail from about ten different companies], two of them are family members of the former head of the Public Prosecutions Office (MP). The head of CCAC also confirmed that the case concerns offences of fraud, unlawful economic advantage, abuse of power, and document forgery relating to renovation and maintenance work and acquiring of goods and services. These were allegedly directly granted, without a public tender, to certain private companies worth a total amount of over MOP167 million with at least MOP44 million returned in favor of the suspects. Similarities can be seen between this case and others previously found by the CCAC, where people who have the capacity to exercise power and make decisions have justified the direct awarding of contracts to a certain company that may be owned by people they know or may even be their own, based on urgency to conduct those works or hire the services. Most of the time, those companies are just shell companies that then subcontract other companies to perform the work or provide the services, thereby avoiding the public tender process, Andre Cheong said. The same source commented that, during these ten years [2004 to 2014], these companies have been able to secure all the work and services from the MP. Even when the public tenders were assessed, the tenders were also granted to the same two or three companies. And there are cases where the same renovation work was granted more than once. According to information, CCAC investigations surrounding the case have been ongoing since last year and initially resulted from a complaint from the MP. The case was discovered internally [in MP] last year and as there was evidence of crime, this was communicated to the CCAC and sparked the investigation, Mr Cheong said, adding that the MP supported and collaborated with the investigations throughout the entire investigation, which was run by the CCAC independently. Answering questions from journalists, Cheong assured the public that the case is only related to the hiring of services and building and related work, and is not linked to the exercise of any judicial powers. This case has to do with the former leadership and management staff of MP and does not involve other people, especially other magistrates. It also does not involve the exercising of the judicial powers of the MP, Cheong said. Questioned again by journalists at the press conference, Cheong revealed that he has explained the case to the Chief Executive, Chui Sai On, who told him to handle the case according to the law. Measures including the detention of the former public prosecutor Ho Chio Meng, have been enforced by the MP, which has also enforced restrictions upon another four suspects, forbidding them from departing the territory, as well as suspending an unidentified number of people from public duties. There were many questions left unanswered during the press conference due to the fact that the investigation is still ongoing as explained by the CCAC, who are not dismissing the possibility of finding more suspects and related cases. Andre Cheong also said this case will definitely undermine the credibility of the MSAR. questions sent to mp left unanswered The fact that the coordinator of the Committee on Criminal and Legal Studies, Ho Chio Meng, has not been seen in public for the past year, or attending ceremonies such as that held for the opening of the judicial year, led the Times to inquire about his whereabouts. A message sent on August 26 to the Public Prosecutions Office (MP) was left unanswered. In September 24 we insisted that a response be forthcoming, stressing that the matter was of public interest. Once again, the MP did not reply. ao man long case helped to improve the system During a press conference held yesterday regarding the case that led to the arrest of Ho Chio Meng, the head of the Commission Against Corruption (CCAC), Andre Cheong, said: Since the establishment of the MSAR, the development of integrity and honesty at the administrative level has been afforded big steps forward. The Ao Man Long case allowed the improvement of the whole system of integrity and honesty. Cheong then added that the government of the MSAR has been publishing several laws and regulations to reinforce the efforts against corruption. A passenger aircraft of Chinas Hong Kong Airlines touched down at Phnom Penh international airport on Saturday afternoon, marking its start of thrice-weekly flight service to the Cambodian capital. The Airbus A320 aircraft was welcomed by a traditional water salute upon its arrival. Christian Mosebach, representative of Hong Kong Airlines (Cambodia), said strong economic and tourism ties between Hong Kong and Cambodia encouraged the airline to begin regular flights to Cambodia. Currently, we operate three flights a week to Phnom Penh and we are looking at increasing frequency, depending on the booking situation, he told Xinhua. The flight arriving from Hong Kong today is fully booked, 177 passengers, and the flight going out has around 133 passengers, so about 75 percent occupancy, which is very good for a launch flight, he added. Johnny Wan, deputy general manager at the airlines business development department, said last month that the airlines flights to Cambodia would offer more choices and greater convenience to passengers travelling to and from Cambodia. The airline operates flights on the Hong Kong-Phnom Penh route every Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday. Hong Kong Airlines is the third Hong Kong to Cambodia service, adding to Dragonair and Hong Kong Express. Xinhua A pro-democracy candidate won a Hong Kong weekend by-election while a rival from a radical pro-independence group arrested on riot charges placed a surprising third in a vote seen as a measure of political tension in the Chinese city. The mainstream Civic Partys Alvin Yeung won the Legislative Council seat with 160,880 votes representing 37 percent of the turnout, edging out pro-Beijing candidate Holden Chow by about 10,000 votes, according to results released yesterday. But the front-runners were overshadowed by Edward Leung of Hong Kong Indigenous, who garnered 15 percent of about 434,000 votes cast Sunday. Leung is one of the leaders of the group, which is part of a fledgling movement advocating Hong Kongs independence from China. The movement has gained support amid growing unease over signs Beijing is tightening its grip on the specially administered Chinese region, which is promised civil liberties unseen on the mainland under the one-country, two-systems principle that took effect when Britain ceded control to China in 1997. Hong Kong Indigenous is one of a number of groups formed after pro-democracy street protests in 2014 ended without a satisfactory resolution after Beijing refused to give any major concessions. Theres a certain amount of Hong Kong people who support our political belief and means of fighting for democracy, Leung told reporters. The group advocates radical protest methods. It has given us more power to fight against the authorities. Leung is among dozens of people charged with taking part in a riot following a violent nightlong clash with police at a Lunar New Year holiday street food market earlier this month that was sparked by concerns that the citys local culture is disappearing. Beijing has condemned groups like Leungs, calling them radical splitting forces. Hong Kong Financial Secretary John Tsang warned last week that rising political tensions are threatening the citys economic growth. Yesterdays vote is seen as a prelude to citywide elections later this year that are expected to be fiercely contested by pro-democracy and pro-Beijing parties. AP The Macau Construction Association (MCA) held a forum last week to discuss the current human resources situation in Macaus construction industry, as well as to consider the predictions that may indicate what sort of employees the industry needs. The absence of young employees was one of the topics addressed during the talks. Currently, according to research conducted by the MCA and the Macau Economic Association, the construction industry employs more than 50,000 workers, of which over 10,000 are local workers. Statistics from the Human Resources Office (GRH) show that, to the end of last September, there were 45,509 non-residents (39,777 mainlanders) working in the construction sector. Consequently, local residents have been afraid of losing their jobs due to the flow of workers coming from other regions looking for opportunities in Macau. Several projects are ongoing, such as public housing, the light rail, and renewals of old buildings. A few gaming properties are expected to be finished before 2019. There are plenty of jobs, said Joey Lao, chairman of the Macau Economic Association. Guests who attended the forum affirmed that the industry will always have positions available for construction workers. Moreover, non- local employees will be the first to leave the labor market. It is expected that the current economic situation will not cause serious troubles for local residents. Companies will prioritize the hiring of local workers, and once the economy deteriorates, non-local employees will be out of the labor market first, said Lao. As indicated by an MCA study, the average age of the construction workforce is 44, and workers older than 45 represent 49.9 percent of the whole sector. Construction companies face difficulties attracting college graduates. Several guests said that fresh graduates avoid the construction industry because of its 3D disadvantages: demanding, dangerous, and dirty. In addition, the salary, work environment and satisfaction are considered unattractive by young people. It was also mentioned that the Hong Kong government has reportedly been doing a very good job attracting the young generation to work in the construction industry. It has introduced measures to improve both the security and safety of the construction sites. Lawmaker Mak Soi Kun suggested that the government should learn from Hong Kong. Over the past ten years, the rapid expansion of the construction sector exacerbated the need for more workers and management experts. However, local workers lack training in professional construction services. Still, the salary of a local worker increased 73.5 percent during the past five years from MOP539 per day to MOP935. According to the MCA survey, among the 62 construction enterprises that were interviewed, 45 of them (72.6 percent) are planning on recruiting more people, with 41.9 percent hoping to hire foreign workers. Machinery operators and heavy-vehicle drivers are among the most-needed jobs. Staff reporter Malaysias ruling party suspended its second-in-command Muhyiddin Yassin for undermining the organization in his quest to oust Prime Minister Najib Razak, the latest indication of the premier strengthening his grip on power after months of political turmoil. Muhyiddins suspension as deputy president of the United Malays National Organization will be in effect until the next party elections, Secretary-General Tengku Adnan Tengku Mansor told reporters in Kuala Lumpur. UMNOs Supreme Council deliberated for two hours over the decision at a meeting Friday, he said. The next party elections are due by 2018. Najib has weathered months of attacks from former leader Mahathir Mohamad and Muhyiddin over a political donations scandal and amid concerns of the finances of a troubled government investment company. Muhyiddins removal, coupled with the replacement of Mahathirs son and fellow critic as chief minister of a northern state earlier this month, indicates Najib has further coalesced his hold within UMNO, where he retains the support of the bulk of divisional chiefs. In December, Muhyiddin called for term limits on UMNOs presidency, held by Najib, saying absolute power corrupts. There are no such restrictions currently. Najib should leave his position as prime minister until investigations on the donations are completed, Muhyiddin also said then. As a party deputy president and according to the partys constitution, he was supposed to assist the president, Adnan said of Muhyiddin on Friday. Whatever views he had should have been done through the proper channel. Overall, he had undermined the party and its constitution. Muhyiddin said on Saturday he had expected the suspension and would continue to speak up for the truth and press for institutional reforms. Muhyiddin said he wasnt given the chance to defend himself before he was suspended, the Star reported on its website yesterday. In the six years that I held the post of deputy president, I never neglected my duties and responsibilities to support the president, Muhyiddin said on his Facebook page. Does supporting the president mean blindly backing him including defending his wrongdoing? I do not think so. Under Article 20 of UMNOs constitution, all members must adhere to its code of ethics, maintain the good name of the party, keep its secrets, and comply and respect its decisions. Those who violate the laws will be referred to the disciplinary board which may issue a warning, prohibit the member from running for any party positions or even dismiss him or her from UMNO. Until Friday, Muhyiddin had remained UMNO deputy president after being dumped as deputy prime minister in July. The successor of his Cabinet position and UMNO Vice President Zahid Hamidi will take over the duties of the deputy president without assuming the position, Adnan said. Attorney General Mohamed Apandi Ali last month closed the door on the graft investigation into Najib, clearing him of wrongdoing over a personal contribution of USD681 million from the Saudi Arabian royal family in early 2013 that appeared in his personal bank accounts. The premier returned $620 million in August 2013 that was not utilized, Apandi said. He did not specify what the remainder of the funds were used for. Manirajan Ramasamy and Chong Pooi Koon, Bloomberg At a press conference yesterday, the New Macau Association (ANM) president, Scott Chiang, and vice president, Jason Chao, voiced their skepticism that former top prosecutor Ho Chio Meng s alleged corruption had no effect upon his judicial responsibilities. Ho Chio Meng, the former Prosecutor General, has been detained in relation to a suspected case of corruption that is currently being investigated by the Commission Against Corruption (CCAC). He is accused of giving undue preference to certain companies and organizations in the granting of contracts by the Public Prosecutions Office (MP). In exchange, he and other suspects in the case are accused of receiving at least MOP44 million. The CCAC commissioner, Andre Cheong, made clear at a press conference on Sunday that Ho was being investigated solely for the alleged misconduct regarding the tenders, and that it does not involve the exercising of judicial powers. However, ANM members raised doubts yesterday over the scope of Hos alleged misconduct. They [the CCAC] defined the scope of the investigation to the affairs of the prosecution office, but we do not believe that the judicial duties were not affected, said Jason Chao. If you can bribe Ho with MOP44 million, then his official duties could be bought as well. [] The implication is just terrifying because whats being compromissed is the integrity of investigations, Scott Chiang said. In Macau terms its almost embarrassingly low, he added, commenting on the size of the sum allegedly awarded to Ho. According to the information available, the bribery [amounted to] around a quarter of [the value of the] contract deals. If the costs amount to a quarter, imagine how much mark-up you need to make [the deal profitable]. Stressing Ho Chio Mengs experience as the head of the previous anti-corruption bureau under the Portuguese administration, Chao claimed that, Ho is a real expert in corruption. How can we believe that he only accepted MOP44 million in 10 years? [It is] also difficult to believe his duties were not compromised at all, added Chao. Ho had, on several occasions, been considered a potential candidate for the position of Chief Executive, a possibility that he has never denied. In light of President Xis anti-corruption campaign in mainland China, the ANM president speculated that the case has something to do with fighting behind the scenes for influence in Beijing, suggesting that Ho may have fallen in Beijings estimation. What is happening here is just an extension of what is happening across the border [in mainland China], commented Chiang. The two ANM leaders implied that the bureau may be acting out of interests other than its stated mission to combat corruption in Macau, questioning why an audit had not raised suspicions earlier and what the corruption watchdog had been doing all this time. CCAC commissioner Andre Cheong said on Sunday that in addition to suspected bribery, the case currently under investigation includes offences of fraud, document forgery, abuse of power and the granting of unlawful economic advantage. Cheong also stated that, as the investigation is still ongoing, the CCAC has not dismissed the possibility of uncovering further suspects in the case or additional instances of misconduct. Daniel Beitler neto valente: influence peddling is the problem The president of the Macau Lawyers Association, Neto Valente, commented on Ho Chio Mengs arrest: The problem that might take place at the Public Prosecutions Office is influence peddling. I mean that in the sense of holding back procedures, not letting a case move forward, or just handling some cases and not others. People connected to the judicial circuit know that this has taken place and frequently. I never saw anyone taking a stance on the issue. Lets see now if with this case the issue will be raised or not. In my opinion its far more serious than some side-jobs and petty rewards. That I dont think is the most relevant thing here, Neto Valente told TDM. A light bus from the public transportation company New Era was involved in a dramatic accident in the area of Cheoc Van, Coloane yesterday afternoon. According the Public Security Police Force (PSP) the accident happened around 2.15 p.m. and resulted in minor injuries to one of the passengers, who was then taken to the hospital. Sources told the Times that the passenger, a local resident, suffered only light injuries and was released from hospital just a few hours after the accident. The police requested the driver, also a Macau resident, to perform a breathalyzer test which he passed. The cause of the accident is not yet known. CE to attend NPC plenary session The Chief Executive, Chui Sai On, is scheduled to attend the opening of the Fourth Session of the Twelfth National Peoples Congress (NPC) on Saturday in Beijing. The visit to the capital from March 3 to 6 will include meetings with leaders of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the General Administration of Customs. The Chief Executive is also scheduled to meet with leaders from Guangdong province to discuss further opportunities for cooperation between the two regions. Squash Academy seeking talented teenagers On Sunday, the Macau Squash Academy held a recruitment day at the Cotai Bowling Centre to encourage teenagers to join its programs. Jointly organized by the Macau Sport Development Board (ID) and by the Macau Squash Association, the day attracted over 40 enthusiasts born between 2001 and 2009, which was one of the requirements. The applicants took a series of physical tests that were designed to assess their skills. The list of selected students will be published on March 11. The association currently offers three programs for gifted juniors. Talented young players will be chosen from among the junior members of the association to represent Macau in national squash competitions. Hillary Clinton over-whelmed Bernie Sanders in the South Carolina primary, drawing staggering support from the states black Democrats and putting her in a strong position as the race barrels toward crucial multi-state contests tomorrow. Clintons lopsided win on Saturday she led by 48 points with nearly all precincts counted provided an important boost for her campaign and a moment to wipe away bitter memories of her loss to Barack Obama in South Carolina eight years ago. She won the support of nearly nine in 10 black voters, crucial Democratic backers who abandoned her for Obama in 2008. During a raucous victory rally, Clinton briefly reveled in her sweeping support from South Carolina voters, hugging backers and posing with them for selfie photos. But then she pivoted quickly to the contests to come. Tomorrow this campaign goes national, she said. We are not taking anything, and we are not taking anyone, for granted. Taken together, 865 Democratic delegates are up for grabs in the March 1 Super Tuesday contests in 11 states and American Samoa. Clintons campaign hopes her strong showing in South Carolina foreshadows similar outcomes in states like Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee and Virginia that vote tomorrow and have large minority populations. Sanders, expecting defeat in South Carolina on Saturday, left the state even before voting was finished and turned his attention to some of the states that vote in tomorrows delegate-rich contests. In a statement, Sanders vowed to fight on aggressively. He drew 10,000 people to a rally in Austin, a liberal bastion in conservative Texas, the biggest March 1 prize. This campaign is just beginning, he said. Our grass-roots political revolution is growing state by state, and we wont stop now. Clintons victory came at the end of a day that saw Republican candidates firing insults at each other at rallies in states voting on Super Tuesday. Donald Trump, working to build an insurmountable lead, was campaigning in Arkansas with former rival New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and calling Florida Sen. Marco Rubio a light little nothing. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz was asking parents in Atlanta if they would be pleased if their children spouted profanities like the brash billionaire. And Rubio was mocking Trump as a con artist with the worst spray tan in America. Clinton made a stop in Alabama, a Super Tuesday state, on Saturday before returning to Columbia, South Carolinas capital, for an evening victory party. Sanders has energized young people and liberals with his impassioned calls for breaking up Wall Street banks and making tuition free at public colleges and universities. But the senator from Vermont, a state where about one percent of the population is black, lacks Clintons deep ties to the African-American community. Exit polls showed six in 10 voters in the South Carolina primary were black, by far the largest proportion in any of the contests so far. About seven in 10 said they wanted the next president to continue Obamas policies, and only about 20 percent wanted a more liberal course of action, according to the polls conducted by Edison Research for The Associated Press and television networks. Clintons sweeping victory suggested South Carolina voters had put aside any lingering tensions from her heated 2008 contest with Obama. Former President Bill Clinton made statements during that campaign that were seen by some as questioning the legitimacy of the black presidential contender. Clintons second White House bid lurched to an uneven start, with a narrow victory over Sanders in Iowa and a crushing loss to the senator in New Hampshire. She pulled off a five-point win over Sanders in the Nevada caucuses, a crucial victory that helped stem Sanders momentum. Clinton will pick up most of South Carolinas delegates, widening her overall lead in APs count. With 53 delegates at stake, Clinton will receive 39, Sanders at least 14. Going into South Carolina, Clinton had just a one-delegate edge over Sanders. However, she also has a massive lead among superdelegates, the Democratic Party leaders who can vote for the candidate of their choice at this summers national convention, regardless of how their states vote. Because Democrats apportion delegates proportionally, Sanders is simply hoping to stay close to Clinton in the South. But hes focusing most of his attention on states in the Midwest and Northeast, including his home state of Vermont. Julie Pace, Lisa Lerer, AP Unrest broke out in a Salt Lake City neighborhood after what appeared to be a shooting involving a police officer. The shooting happened about 8:15 p.m. Saturday near downtown. Selam Mohammad told the Salt Lake Tribune that a police officer shot a 16-year-old boy who was his friend. In a tweet late Saturday night, Salt Lake City police said that officers were responding to an unrelated call in area when they were told of an assault in progress. The officers tried to engage altercation, the tweet says. Detective Greg Wilking told the Tribune that shots were fired, but not how many or whether an officer fired them. Later Saturday, Salt Lake City police told the newspaper that one officer, and possibly a second one, were involved in the shooting. Mohammad told the Tribune that the victim and a man were in a confrontation, and the victim was holding part of a broomstick at his side when officers arrived. They told him to put it down, once, Mohammad said, and started shooting him as soon as he turned around. The teenager was hit in the chest and stomach, Mohammad said. The victim was taken to a hospital, the Tribune reported. City police were helped by officers from three other departments as onlookers threw rocks at officers and yelled obscenities, the Tribune said. Police closed a light rail stop in the neighborhood. Police detained multiple people, but Wilking could not elaborate on the reason for the detentions. There were a lot of hostile people upset about what had taken place, Wilking told the Tribune. AP CHINA A couple who led a Christian congregation that opposed a government campaign to remove crosses atop churches have been given long prison sentences for illegal activities. RUSSIA Methane gas leak at a coal mine in Russias far north triggered three explosions that ignited a raging fire and partially collapsed the mine, killing 36 people. The dead included five rescue workers and a mine worker who were killed yesterday when the third explosion rocked the Severnaya mine in Vorkuta, a town north of the Arctic Circle in the Komi region, the emergency services said. MYANMAR Hundreds of nationalist Buddhist monks and their supporters rally in support of retaining a constitutional clause barring Aung San Suu Kyi, the leader of the countrys recently elected ruling party, from becoming head of state. THAILAND Police said yesterday that they have arrested several Cambodian sailors suspected of attacking four French tourists on a resort island, raping the two women in the group. The five Cambodians assaulted the tourists with knives and sticks Saturday night on the island of Koh Kut after anchoring their fishing boat, said Maj. Gen. Nopparat Rintapon, head of police in Trat province. Three of the tourists were badly injured. POLAND Thousands gathered yesterday at the shipyard in Gdansk the cradle of Polands 1980s Solidarity movement to back Lech Walesa, the former democracy leader and ex-president who is facing renewed allegations of having collaborated with Polands communist-era secret police. MEXICO Former President Felipe Calderon joined his predecessor in office in unloading on Donald Trump, calling the Republican front-runners campaign racist and saying his discourse on immigration is fueling anti-American sentiment around the world. NAMIBIAN media report that the Chinese government has sponsored several classrooms in Namibian schools to teach Mandarin. The Namibian Press Agency reported on Saturday that Chinas Ambassador to Namibia Xin Shunkang inaugurated a classroom at a school outside the capital Windhoek earlier this week. The school is one of several in the district that will offer language classes for two hours after school. Register for more free articles. Sign up for our newsletter to keep reading. Be the first to know Get local news delivered to your inbox! Sign up! Already a Subscriber? Already a Subscriber? Sign in Terms of Service Privacy Policy The EUs agreed a 3bn deal with Turkey in order to help keep more migrants in the country, and reduce the influx of migrants. Theres been a lot of squabbling over how much each EU member state would pay, and the commitments have finally been agreed. The cash has not yet been delivered with concrete details yet to be ironed out. This has not been helped with the Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan threatening to send buses of migrants over the borders. The deal is sweetened for Turkey with a renewed commitment to talk about possible EU accession, and visa-liberalisation for Turkish citizens into the Schengen Area. Perhaps the last part of that deal would not prove so popular with many EU citizens. Elsewhere: Tsipras has upped the ante again: warning parliament in Athens that he will not allow Greece to become, a warehouse of souls, and announcing that if Greece is left alone to deal with the crisis, he would block EU decisions at the next leaders summit in Brussels. The Open Europe post is a good look at how Europe is failing to solve its refugee problems, or even come close. MassHousing regularly participates in seminars, information sessions, meetings and other events for aspiring homebuyers across Massachusetts. Below is a list of upcoming homebuyer events scheduled for March, April and May near you! Catholic Social Services is offering a homebuyer education workshop: Theres No Place Like Home To register please contact Maria Paiva at 508.997.7337 or 508.674.4681. You must reserve your space by Thursday, February 25, 2016. To receive a First Time Homebuyer Counseling Certificate you must attend both workshops. The cost of the workshop is $30 per person or $35 per couple for both days. Date/Time: Tuesday, March 1st and Wednesday, March 2, 2016 | 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm Location: 1600 Bay Street, Fall River MA 02724 Boston Home Center City of Boston Mayor Walsh and the Department of Neighborhood Development invite you to a brief information session and learn how we can help you buy a home, followed by a networking opportunity where you can meet with local Mortgage Lenders and Realtors. For more information, visit or call: www.bostonhomecenter.com or 617.635.HOME(4663). Date/Time: Monday, March 7, 2016 | 5:00 pm to 7:00 pm Location: East Boston Branch Library -- 365 Bremen Street, East Boston Bristol County Savings Bank invites you to an informative, free seminar that will help you better understand the steps toward home ownership. Reservations required and seating is limited. Please call 508.828.5329 for reservations by March 1, 2016. Date/Time: Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | 5:30 pm to 8:00 pm Location: The Colonel Blackinton Inns -- Carriage House | 203 North Main Street | Attleboro, MA 02703 Charles River Bank is offering a free, informative and interactive breakfast meeting with Annie Blatz, 2016 President of the Massachusetts Association of Realtors. Date/Time: Wednesday, March 9, 2016 | 9:00 am to 10:30 am Location: Holiday Inn Express | 50 Fortune Boulevard | Milford MA 01757 Bank of Canton, American Consumer Credit Counseling and MassHousing are offering a First Time Homebuyer Seminar. This 2-part seminar will provide education on what to expect when purchasing your first home. The list of presenters includes closing attorney, a realtor, a home inspector, an insurance agent and a loan originator. Please register at 1.800.769.3571 extension 9241. Date/Time: Wednesday, March 30th and Thursday, March 31, 2016 | 5:30 pm to 8:30 pm Location: Central Massachusetts Board of Realtors | 492 Washington Street, Auburn MA 01501 Bristol County Savings Bank Realtor Information Session. Please come and learn all about MassHousings newest program Operation Welcome Home and many other exciting programs. Please RSVP no later than Monday, March 21st at 508.944.2978 or email Jennifer.oldfield@bcsbmail.com Date/Time: Thursday, March 31, 2016 | 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm Location: Stoneforge Publick House | 90 Parmount Drive | Raynham MA City of New Bedford Mayor Jonathan Mitchell and Southeastern Massachusetts Association of REALTORs are offering a First Time Homebuyer Seminar. If you are considering buying your first home, here is a great chance to find out what you need to know. Reservations are necessary. Extremely limited seating is available on a first-come/first-serve basis: please contact tanika.gonzalez@newbedford-ma.gov for a registration form. You can then reserve your space by returning the completed registration form and on-refundable check or money order made payable to the DPHCD. Located at 608 Pleasant Street, New Bedford MA 02740. We cannot accept cash. The cost per person is $20 or $25 per couple when reserved together for both evenings. Fee includes a box lunch on both evenings and all your materials. Date/Time: Tuesday, April 5th and Thursday, April 7, 2016 | 5:00 pm to 9:15 pm Location: 651 Orchard Street | Howland Place, Suite 101 | New Bedford MA 02744 REALTOR Association of Pioneer Valleys Annual Education Fair & Expo (Co-sponsors: DIY Mobile Box, MLS Property Information Network, Inc., Bank ESB, Burt Hill Movers, First Niagara Bank, Peoples United Bank) Date/Time: Tuesday, April 5, 2016 | 7:00 am to 6:00 pm Location: MassMutual Center | 1277 Main St. | Springfield, MA 01103 Buy Springfield Now. Come join an evening of family fun to promote homeownership in your community! For more information email Oneida Fuentes at ofuentes@masshousing.com Date/Time: Thursday, May 12, 2016 | 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm Location: Concord Terrace | Springfield MA Co-Sponsors: United Bank, First Niagara, BankESB and MassHousing Politicians in Lebanon are in disarray following the $3million military aid suspension to the Lebanese army by Riyadh that was followed few days after by travel warnings from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain and Kuwait to the country. The decision is believed to have been incited by Hezbollahs actions in the country, non-condemnation by the Lebanese government of the storming of the Saudi Embassy in Tehran and abstaining from voting for resolutions condemning the act and Iran. Hezbollahs deputy leader, Sheikh Naim Qassem, reacted to Saudis decisions saying Lebanese should rejoice because their independence is still being persevered and Riyadh should apologize for insulting Lebanon. The hardening ties between Beirut and Riyadh over the week led to reports that Lebanon would experience political and financial difficulties without the support of the oil-rich kingdom but Central Bank Governor, Riad Salameh, thinks that the market has been misinformed and figures largely inflated regarding Saudi deposits at the central bank. He downplayed that the Lebanese pound is facing some risks. Nevertheless, he hopes the government to reestablish good relations with the Saudis as they have always been economic partners. Sheikh Qassem said last weeks developments require apologizes to Lebanon because that was an insult to the Lebanese stressing that Lebanon will not be a Saudi emirate or an emirate for anyone else. Hezbollah is part of a Lebanese unity government that includes Saudi-allied politicians but is hamstrung by divisions. According to analysts, the rising tension will be another proxy confrontation between Shias and Sunnis in Lebanon; a country that has struggled for 19 months to fill the presidential vacuum. The fury between Iran and Saudi Arabia took a new dimension on Sunday as Tehran protested against Riyadhs refusal to issue visas to a delegation that was to attend a meeting of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) in Jeddah. The Director General for Political and International Security Affairs at the Iranian foreign ministry, Hamid Baedinejad, said any decision reached at the OIC meeting without the participation of Irans political delegation would be invalid. The two-day OIC meeting began on Sunday and would prepare draft documents and resolutions for the upcoming summit of OIC leaders in Turkey. Baedinejad said the Saudi decision is discriminatory and against the law. He urged Riyadh to focus on realistic policies and concentrate on the Muslim World issues such as Palestine, terrorism, sectarianism and common concerns of the Islamic Ummah rather than peripheral issues. Riyadh has not reacted to the reports. The increasingly tense relations between the two countries are expected to affect the functioning of international organizations after heavily influencing regional foreign policies of neighboring states. Irans population is dominated by Shias while Sunnis are the majority in Saudi Arabia. There have been tensions between the two countries and the Yemeni war is considered by analysts as a proxy war between the two countries with Tehran backing the Houthi Movement and their allies while Saudis push for the reinstatement of Hadi as the legitimate president. Bilateral tensions reached new levels on January 2 after the execution of Shia cleric Sheikh Nimr by Riyadh leading outraged Iranian protesters to storm the Saudi embassy. Riyadh reacted by severing ties and some Gulf States recalled their ambassadors in solidarity. Since then, Riyadh has been trying to rally more international support against Tehran. Your digital subscription includes access to content from all our websites in your region. Access unlimited news content and The Canberra Times app. Premium subscribers also enjoy interactive puzzles and access to the digital version of our print edition - Today's Paper. In het najaar van september tot december 2022: ZOOM Meditatie met Kees , 1 keer in de 2 weken op maandagavond. Twee keer een meditatie van een half uur en bespreking door Kees van een aantal Dzogchen teksten uit de 'Vlucht van de Garoeda'. @PatriciaMazzei How the politics of Cuba have changed in Miami in recent years. When Democrat Annette Taddeo first ran for Congress in 2008, she supported keeping the U.S. trade embargo. Now, eight years later, she's running for Congress again, in favor of lifting the embargo and asking voters to sign a petition backing President Barack Obama's visit later this month to Cuba. She sent supporters an email urging their signature after incumbent Republican Rep. Carlos Curbelo said he was "disappointed" to learn of Obama's trip and asked his own supporters to sign a petition opposing the visit. Republicans may instead counter that she's been a Cuba flip-flopper. So, for Taddeo, what changed? "In 2008, I was very much against lifting the embargo, as I think almost everybody was," Taddeo acknowledged in an interview with the Miami Herald. Five years later, in 2013, she got a call from people trying to arrange meetings on Capitol Hill for Yoani Sanchez, the Cuban blogger who was visiting Washington D.C. Taddeo says she put some together for Sanchez and several U.S. senators, and attended herself. "She certainly opened up my mind," Taddeo said, crediting Sanchez, who opposes with embargo, with making her rethink her position. "We can go back to just being isolationist, but what I learned was this just hurts the Cuban people." via @jayhweaver It's no wonder U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio recommended seasoned Miami lawyer Mary Barzee Flores to fill an opening on the busy federal judiciary in South Florida more than a year ago. She worked her way through the University of Miami and its law school, spent more than two decades as an assistant federal public defender and state circuit court judge, then joined a top commercial law firm before applying for a coveted federal judgeship. What a spectacular judge, said Miami lawyer Edward Blumberg, a former president of the Florida Bar Association, recalling his experience trying a complex medical malpractice case in front of her. She's one of the best judges I've seen statewide. Rubio thought so, too. But since Barzee Flores' nomination by President Barack Obama a year ago, the Miami Republican now running for his party's presidential nomination has held up her confirmation by not allowing the Senate Judiciary Committee to move forward with it. Rubio, who had recommended Barzee Flores along with his Florida colleague, U.S. Sen. Bill Nelson, has not submitted a so-called blue slip that would set the wheels in motion for her confirmation a decision seemingly in lockstep with the GOP-led Senates strategy to slow-walk the Democratic presidents judicial nominees since early last year. Only 16 federal district and appellate judges have been confirmed since last year by the Senate, including four nominated after Barzee Flores. The president nominated her on Feb. 26, 2015, and Nelson, a Democrat, returned his blue slip for her confirmation immediately. More here. @ByKristenMClark As legislation to make permanent the "Best & Brightest" teacher bonus program remains in limbo this session, Florida House and Senate leaders are floating the possibility of a one-year extension by including the program -- once again -- in proviso language for the annual budget. The controversial program predictably surfaced as a point of leverage between House and Senate education leaders this weekend as they started hashing out the 2016-17 budget. The bonuses are a priority for House Republicans, but senators in both parties are especially reluctant to buy in to the idea. By Sunday evening, lead education budget negotiators Rep. Erik Fresen and Sen. Don Gaetz had agreed on the largest budget issue: how to fund increases to K-12 schools and by how much. But the rest of the education budget remains unresolved. The House rejected the first and only offer from the Senate, which included -- among a host of issues -- a proposed compromise on funding for the "Best and Brightest" program. The bonuses award "highly effective" teachers who scored in the top 20 percent on their high school SAT/ACT exams. The offer from Gaetz, a Niceville Republican, was a broad this-for-that exchange of several priority areas, which was presented as "all or nothing" to the House. Under Gaetz's offer, the Senate would have supported the House's desire to include the teacher bonus plan in the budget implementing bill -- allowing it to continue for a second year. The Senate would have also supported $22.5 million in funding, half the amount the House wants. via @stevebousquet TALLAHASSEE -- As hundreds of thousands of Florida voters return mail ballots with their choices for president, a second wave of balloting begins Monday with the start of early voting in many large counties. Early voting sites open Monday in 16 of 67 counties, including Miami-Dade and Monroe, while Broward and Palm Beach will start early voting a week later, March 5. Counties must offer early voting for at least eight days and can expand it to 14 days, including the Sunday before Election Day, March 15. Most counties will offer only the minimum eight days because early voting is slowly losing its luster as more people vote by mail. Across Florida, the populist phenomenon of Donald Trump, Marco Rubios hometown appeal, the prospect of Hillary Clinton as the first female president and the insurgency of Bernie Sanders are generating a level of enthusiasm thats expected to produce a much higher turnout than four years ago. Ive never seen such a level of informed and engaged voters, said Pasco County Supervisor of Elections Brian Corley. This is like nothing weve ever seen for a presidential primary. Elections officials saw it coming after they were swamped by a late surge of unaffiliated voters switching to a major party so they could vote in the primary. More here. via @karadapena Voters must be registered with the Florida Democratic Party or the Republican Party of Florida to vote during the states March 15 presidential preference primary. Other registered voters will only be able to vote for other local issues on their ballot. The deadline to register to vote or update party affiliation in time for the primary was Feb. 16. Eligible voters have three ways to vote: Early voting: You may cast your ballot at any early voting site in the county where youre registered to vote starting Feb. 29 in Miami-Dade and Monroe counties and March 5 in Broward. You must bring a current and valid identification that contains your name, photograph and signature. Your voter information card is not required, but it will expedite your check-in process. Absentee voting: The deadline to request an absentee ballot be mailed to you is 5 p.m. March 9. Otherwise, an absentee ballot can be picked up through Election Day. It must be received by the Supervisor of Elections no later than 7 p.m. on Election Day to count. Other return options are available for overseas voters. Election Day voting: You must cast your ballot in person at your designated polling place on March 15. The polls are open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Anyone waiting in line at 7 p.m. will have the opportunity to cast a ballot. As with early voting, you must bring a current and valid identification that contains your name, photograph and signature, and your voter information card is not required. More here. @MichaelAuslen Last week, after Bradenton millionaire homebuilder Carlos Beruff entered the race to replace Marco Rubio in the Senate, his Republican rivals started trying to painting him as an insider and linking him to former Gov. Charlie Crist. Now, Reform Washington, a super PAC supporting Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera in the Republican Senate primary, is joining in. In a statement Monday, timed to the formal launch of Beruff's campaign in Miami, Reform Washington spokeswoman Ryan Wiggins said Beruff isn't "a conservative hero." "It's a good thing Carlos Beruff's a millionaire," the statement says. "He's going to need every penny of it to pay his gold-plated media consultants to run phony ads to cover up his troubled record." Lopez-Cantera's formal campaign released a statement, as well, from campaign manager Brian Swenson: "With (Beruff's) entrance, Florida voters are getting another unknown candidate who can say the right things on the stump but doesn't represent their values. What voters do know is that Beruff is on the wrong side of the issues that matter to them: he supports open trade with Cuba and supported Charlie Crist as a Democrat." Last week, Congressman Ron DeSantis issued a similar charge, and businessman Todd Wilcox launched a campaign promise to end Washington insiders in politics. Still nothing lashing out from Congressman David Jolly. "It's clear that the professional politicians are terrified of a true, conservative outsider like Carlos Beruff," Beruff spokesman Chris Hartline said in a statement. "Unfortunately for them, voters in Florida are sick of the empty rhetoric from the political class. Carlos Beruff is by far the most conservative candidate in this race with a record of real accomplishment and that has the establishment candidates shaking in their boots." @PatriciaMazzei The small-town U.S. mayor flew to Cuba for an eight-day visit with his wife, back when those trips were rare. The year was 1989. The goal was to meet Fidel Castro. No meeting took place. The American had to make do with the mayor of Havana instead. He returned home calling the Cuban revolution far deeper and more profound than I had understood it to be. He represented the town of Burlington, Vermont. His name was Bernie Sanders. And hed already been to Cuba twice. And to the Soviet Union, the day after his wedding in 1988. And to Nicaragua, in 1985, to celebrate the sixth anniversary of the Sandinista revolution. Now Sanders, a U.S. senator and democratic socialist, is running for the Democratic presidential nomination and still talking revolution political revolution, that is. What began last week in Iowa, what voters here in New Hampshire confirm tonight, is nothing short of the beginning of a political revolution, Sanders said when he won the New Hampshire primary over Hillary Clinton. It is a political revolution that will bring tens of millions of our people together. In a place like Miami-Dade County, the cradle of Latin American political exile, his words might carry more meaning than anywhere else in the nation and probably not the meaning Sanders hopes to convey. For us Cuban Americans, we have this baggage, said Bernadette Pardo, who hosts a Spanish-language morning show on Radio Mambi and writes a column for el Nuevo Herald. For us, socialism is always going to be something to fear. More here. Photo credit: John Minchillo, Associated Press Florida legislators aren't scared one bit of Gov. Rick Scott's veto pen anymore. Either that or they plan to get even this time. Local projects that lawmakers placed in the budget last year that Scott swiftly vetoed are springing back to life in the Capitol this weekend, as lawmakers dare Scott to kill them two years in a row. House members on Sunday agreed with the Senate to support a series of projects in that category. Scott last year vetoed $240,956 to restore a Bethel A.M.E. Church in Pinellas County but it's back at $340,956. Scott last year vetoed $1 million for the Military Museum of South Florida but it reappeared Sunday at $250,000. Scott last year vetoed $1 million for a black cultural tourism project known as Sankofa, but it's back at the same amount. Scott last year vetoed $175,000 for an East Coast Surfing Museum in New Smyrna Beach, but the same amount was agreed to Sunday and included in a list of local economic development projects. Repairs to an American Legion post in Key West costing $154,000, vetoed last year, is back in the budget. So is $2 million for restoration of the Hotel Ponce de Leon for Flagler College. The list goes on and on. After lawmakers gutted Scott's two priorities of tax cuts and job incentive money, everyone expects Scott to get even by using his veto pen even more aggressively this year than the $461 million he axed last year. The crucial final budget decisions are coming together as Florida's presidential primary is forcing its way into Capitol politics, too. As Scott cozies up to Donald Trump, the same House that killed his $250 million incentive program for jobs is filled with Republicans who now proudly wear Marco Rubio campaign pins on their lapels. Speculation is rampant that legislators will finish the budget as soon as possible to get it to Scott's desk during this session, cutting his time to act to seven days anthereby giving legislators time to override his vetoes by two-thirds votes in both houses. For the record, Senate President Andy Gardiner, R-Orlando, told the Times/Herald Sunday that that is not the Senate's strategy and that he didn't think there was enough time to do it. But he said he shares the concerns of others that Scott could veto much of the budget -- or all of it, forcing the Legislature back to work. "He could," Gardiner said. Florida lawmakers handed yet another stinging defeat to Gov. Rick Scott Sunday by agreeing to use state tax money and not local property taxes to pay for higher school spending next year. The decision left almost no money left for Scott's tax cut proposals, and then, to drive home the point, lawmakers called their decision "property tax relief" in bold type. Senate and House members reached a consensus that Scott's plan to boost school spending to record levels was fatally flawed because it would have put the cost almost entirely on local property owners and businesses that would have been hit with higher propeerty tax bills for school operations under a statewide program known as required local effort. This is nothing close to what Scott had proposed. The governor's budget recommendations relied on local property taxes for nearly 90 percent of the school spending increase, and his office recently labeled it "flat wrong" for lawmakers to accuse him of trying to increase property taxes. But the Legislature held firm. "This increased investment in education should not result in steep increases in property taxes," Sen. Don Gaetz, R-Niceville, said Sunday night in announcing the agreement with his House counterpart, Rep. Erik Fresen, R-Miami. @ByKristenMClark U.S. Rep. Patrick Murphy has picked up another significant national endorsement in his bid for Marco Rubio's U.S. Senate seat. NARAL Pro-Choice America announced this morning that they are backing the Jupiter Democrat over his primary opponent, fellow U.S. Rep. Alan Grayson, D-Orlando. The endorsement is a big get for Murphy's campaign, because one of Grayson's major platforms is women's rights issues. "Patrick Murphy has consistently fought to defend and expand Americans reproductive freedom and we are proud to stand with him in his race for U.S. Senate," Sasha Bruce, a senior vice president with NARAL Pro-Choice America, said in a statement provided by Murphy's campaign. Bruce called Murphy a "champion" and said he was "fearless in going up against the anti-choice majority in Congress and pushing back against the Republican-led smear campaign targeting Planned Parenthood and other health care providers." Murphy said he'll be the fighter that he says Florida women need in the U.S. Senate. "While my GOP opponents stand with Marco Rubios extreme opposition to ban all abortions with no exceptions for cases of rape or incest, I will never back down when it comes to protecting women's healthcare and the right to choose," Murphy said. Grayson and Murphy are duking it out ahead of the August Democratic primary. The endorsement from the national women's rights group comes a week after Politico Florida reported that Grayson, as a lawyer, represented a company in the mid-1990s that was accused of discriminating against a pregnant worker. Five candidates are running in the Republican primary: U.S. Rep. Ron DeSantis of Ponte Vedra Beach, U.S. Rep. David Jolly of Indian Shores, Lt. Gov. Carlos Lopez-Cantera of Miami, Orlando businessman Todd Wilcox and Bradenton home-builder Carlos Beruff. Photo credit: Walter Michot / Miami Herald @PatriciaMazzei The latest Republican to hop into Floridas competitive U.S. Senate race made millions as a home builder in Sarasota, where has lived for more than three decades. So why is Carlos Beruff starting his campaign Monday morning in Miami? Because this is the city where he was born and spent his childhood. Its where I started as an American, he said. So I felt that was an appropriate place. In an interview leading up to his announcement, 9 a.m. Monday at a Vicky Bakery on West Flagler Street, Beruff wouldnt go into much detail about his platform. He wouldnt say if hell follow in the footsteps of his ally, Florida Gov. Rick Scott, and self-fund his campaign. I havent gotten any checks yet, so I guess Im self-funding at this point, he quipped. (He then sounded like someone who will soon be saying yes to checks: I plan on doing what needs to be done.) Beruff also declined to pick a presidential candidate ahead of Floridas March 15 primary: Ive stayed on the sidelines - and Ive found it very entertaining. And when asked about his position on U.S.-Cuba policy, Beruff, who has sounded keen on lifting the trade embargo, called President Barack Obama the worlds worst negotiator. 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Let us know here , we're looking for contributors! To those who as yet fail to condemn the most corrupt Maltese government of all time: Malta 's institutions have collapsed, rule of law ... As for the reviews it should be noted that I don't like to summarise books and I am prone to revealing spoilers. I started reviewing books on Goodreads, and the more I added my own personal experiences to my reviews, the more I began to wonder if that was the appropriate place for such intimate reflections; not that I expect this to get too personal, really, but at least I'm off the beaten path here. My baseline assumption is that, despite the mounting pageviews, no one is actually reading this. HAMILTON Two Bitterroot Valley high school choirs have recorded performances with internationally renowned composer and producer Tim Janis that will be broadcast on Montana PBS next month. Choirs from Hamilton High School, Corvallis High School and nine other Montana schools traveled to Bozeman in mid-January to highlight their abilities in the sixth annual Celebrate America Across Montana special by Tim Janis. Other western Montana schools that took part include Arlee, Bigfork and Frenchtown. I think the exciting part is when you realize this is a new opportunity for these young people to be in a television studio and to have the opportunity to showcase their musical talents and abilities, Janis said. That really makes me happy and I am so glad that public television does this for their community. Hamilton choir director Peggy Bucheit said singing in the Montana PBS television studio is a unique experience. The staff members provide an excellent example of professionalism, Bucheit said. They expect a quality presentation and speak to the students about what is required to present themselves well on camera. Tim is also extremely professional and positive with the students. They feel like celebrities when they are finished with the process. Hamilton soloists were Aidan Carmody, Bailey Evans and Emma Olbricht. Carmody, a senior, said the recording session was a great experience. Its one of the best memories of my high school music career, Carmody said. I have gone several times in the past couple years and every time Tim Janis has been there supporting Montana choirs. Nothing beats being the Phantom (of the Opera), but singing on TV was fun, too. Corvallis choir director Nancy Brown said the Chanteur Choir was honored to participate in Celebrate America. Singing with Tim Janis at Celebrate America is an inspiration for us and helps to build community within the state of Montana, Brown said. We not only get a live television studio experience but also are able to bring to life through song the struggles and unity of a nation. Corvallis soloists included Maddie Murray, Jacob Geary, Sarah Cerdena, Zoe Brouwer and Michael McKay. Murray, a senior, said the recording experience was wonderful. It was incredible to be able to work in a live TV studio and record ourselves, Murray said. I am excited to see the final product, as well as hear the other schools who came together for this event as well. Senior Ronald Venema hopes all choirs can have the Celebrate America experience. It has helped me grow in my vocal singing and performance and expressions, Venema said. Also, Tim Janis was a great and awesome person to meet and get to know. I am glad I had the opportunity of going for two years." Corvallis junior Mary Royce said the recording session was a fantastic experience. It exposed our choir to a television studio experience and allowed us to grow stronger together in friendship, Royce said. For myself, it gave me confidence in public speaking since I was chosen to be the announcer at the very beginning. I cannot wait to see the final product, and am honored to have met Tim Janis in person. Senior Jacob Geary said he valued the experience. I loved it, all the singing and the practice, Geary said. It was just all around an awesome experience. I would do it all again in a heartbeat. Janis said the experience would live on beyond the broadcast. The legacy is really these young people that you see performing and what it will mean in their hearts when they go through life and say, Once upon a time, I was on public television with all of my friends singing in a choir, Janis said. Its just an opportunity for them to always have that in their hearts. Celebrate America is produced in collaboration with public television and music educators across the nation. Designed to encourage high school choir students in their musical aspirations, Celebrate America has had more than 40,000 participating students, nationwide. It began as a program called Music of Hope. It focuses on children and youth and benefits causes like the American Cancer Society. Janis Celebrate America Across Montana special will be broadcast at 7 p.m. Monday, March 7, on Montana PBS (repeating at 7 p.m. Monday, April 14). Join March for Meals and show your support of Meals on Wheels, a program of Missoula Aging Services, during the monthlong campaign. The 14th annual nationwide event raises awareness of senior hunger. In Missoula, March for Meals features a donation drive and other events to benefit the local Meals on Wheels program, which last year served more than 775 older adults and eligible people with disabilities in Missoula County. Anyone may participate in March for Meals fundraising by picking up a donation form at the MAS office, 337 Stephens Ave. Or find more information and download the form at missoulaagingservices.org. After the campaign, youll be eligible to win prizes awarded to those who collect the most donations and contact the most donors. Gov. Steve Bullock will join local public officials, including Mayor John Engen, County Commissioners Stacey Rye and Cola Rowley, City Council members and others who deliver Meals on Wheels in Missoula County on Community Champions Day, March 24. Business-sponsored benefits in conjunction with March for Meals include: Community Jeans Day for MAS, Friday, March 25: All donations collected will support Meals on Wheels in Missoula County. Participating businesses encourage employees to pay $5 to wear jeans in support of local nonprofit organizations. For more information, visit missoulian.com/app/jeans. Community Spirit Night, 4-8 p.m. Tuesday, March 29: Rattlesnake Creek Distillers, 128 W. Alder St. Twenty percent of proceeds from sales will be donated to March for Meals. For more information, visit rattlesnakedistillers.com. March for Meals is initiated by Meals On Wheels America, the only national association and network dedicated solely to ending senior hunger in America. Contact MAS at 728-7682 for more information about March for Meals. *** A Smart Driver Safety Course is being offered Friday, March 25, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Marcus Daly Memorial Hospital in Hamilton. The four-hour course will emphasize how driving has changed, new vehicle technologies, safe driving practices and skills, recognizing the importance and benefits of assessing driving skills, and safe driving actions. The state of Montana mandates discounts for qualified drivers, and there are no tests or exams to complete. The course is sponsored by AARP and the cost is $15 for members and $20 for nonmembers. Call 363-6583 to make a reservation; spaced is limited. *** The Foundation for Community Health welcomes high school seniors to apply for health care scholarships. Scholarships are open to seniors attending high school in Missoula County who intend to pursue a career in a health-related field. Applications and eligibility guidelines are available at fchwmt.org or by request at foundation@fchwmt.org or (406) 926-2522. Applications are due by 5 p.m. Monday, March 7. FCHs minimum scholarship award is $1,000, with consideration of premier $2,500 scholarships to select recipients. Riley Jean Graham felt angry when she learned the Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies Program was being cut. Graham, a senior at the University of Montana and a double major in WGSS and psychology, believed the program would be shielded from cuts because of its rapid growth. In November, UM President Royce Engstrom identified programs challenged by enrollment and slated for reductions. Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies wasn't named, and the president later commended the program in a memo shared with faculty. UM is in the midst of a $12 million budget cut, and it announced layoffs last month that will save the university $7.5 million. This week, program director Elizabeth Hubble said WGSS is slated for a $10,000 cut in June, an amount worth roughly 16 percent of its budget. In a letter to media, Hubble and a core executive faculty group questioned the reduction to a program that is thriving by several measures. Friday, Graham said if the program's faculty and UM administrators don't reach a reasonable compromise at an upcoming meeting, she and other students in WGSS will consider a protest. "I just think it's ridiculous that a program that has growing numbers and doesn't even cost that much in comparison to other programs is getting looked at for cuts," Graham said. Graham and Mackenzie Stiff, another WGSS major, also said the person whose hours will be slashed from 20 with benefits to 10 without benefits has kept them on course at UM. On paper, Jamie Boschee is the program coordinator, and in real life, the students said she's the go-to person for figuring out how to transfer credits, how to graduate on time, and also how to keep them calm when they're anxious. "She has been the glue to me being able to graduate," Stiff said. *** The program has a small budget because its faculty are based in other academic programs, including at least one the president had identified as struggling, Liberal Studies. But the multidisciplinary education created by WGSS is drawing students for a variety of reasons. Graham said she started off as a media arts major, but after taking a class from Hubble that sounded interesting, she realized she liked more than just creating media. "I also like being able to analyze it and being able to see past the surface of advertising and film and just go the extra step and see what those ads and what those films mean culturally," Graham said. Graham, who has insight into two different programs at UM since she is getting two majors, said her psychology professors are understandably busy because many are also clinicians, and as such, not always available to students. She said WGSS is different. If she needs to talk to Hubble, she'll reach her even though the director is one of the busiest people she knows. If she emails Boschee, she'll hear back within an hour. "I know that if I need to talk to Beth (Hubble) or Jamie or whoever in that department, they will be there for me, and we can have a real conversation," Graham said. "They're just some of the most hard-working and selfless people I've ever met." *** Stiff was born and raised in Bozeman, and before coming to UM, she enrolled at Montana State University. There, she switched majors a couple times, and she didn't feel like the school and the environment were a fit. She left for Australia to study abroad for six months, and she read about programs UM offered. Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies sounded perfect and she already liked Missoula, having visited her sister here. Stiff has three other siblings; her mom was widowed, raised four children on her own and also got her master's and doctorate degrees. "I've always thought she was incredible," Stiff said. But the family was part of a church community, and Stiff fundamentally disagreed with an idea the religion espoused that women were somehow less than men. "They were then dictating that not only was my mom less than, but my sister and I were less than," Stiff said. "That played a big role in me choosing this area of study." At UM, she found a program she loves, and also the community she had wanted. "It's a very welcoming, open community to whomever, and I think that's what I was really lacking when I went to MSU," Stiff said. Before she goes on to get a master's degree, Stiff said she hopes to work in the community on women's and youth's issues. In the meantime, she's rooting for the staff and faculty with Women's, Gender and Sexuality Studies. "It was really great to find that niche group of people that are incredible, and I found one of the people I look up to the most in Dr. Hubble," Stiff said. Friday, she was on her way to Bozeman, but she was looking forward to talking with Graham about advocating for the program. Joe Blattner, the unit chief of Missoula County Search and Rescue, was at a late-night showing at the Big Sky Documentary Film Festival last weekend when his phone started ringing around 11 p.m. I thought, 'Well, thats not a good thing on a Sunday,' he recalled. A 17-year-old skier was injured and disoriented in the backcountry near the Ninemile Ranger District area. Blattner and other volunteers raced to the scene, rescued the skier and didnt get home until 4 a.m. Such is the life of someone tasked with being ready 24 hours a day to conduct operations in western Montana, where outdoor recreation is a huge part of the culture, as is the danger that comes with it. Thats pretty typical, Blattner said. Most times where we have call-outs or missions, we anticipate to conduct the mission at night. Usually when the sun starts to set, thats when a little panic starts to set in in peoples mind that are maybe somewhat lost or completely lost. Thats when they call us. We also see friends and family members, loved ones, calling when its dark out. We get activated multiple ways. Blattner, 32, has been a member of SAR since 2008 and took over as chief in 2015. An avid high-altitude mountaineer, he has climbed on Denali, Mount Rainier and Kilimanjaro. Because western Montanas topography is so diverse and there are so many people recreating in different ways, SAR members have to be well-versed, if not experts, in multiple disciplines and gear types. Blattner, a wilderness emergency medical technician, has avalanche training, swiftwater rescue training and high-angle rope rescue experience. He works as an adjunct professor teaching emergency medical responder classes at the University of Montana, and also teaches with the Whitewater Rescue Institute. *** As he started doing more technical expeditions and meeting people in the backcountry, Blattner realized that he should probably learn how to save lives if the need ever arose. In the early 2000s I realized I dont know what to do if you come across someone and they actually need your help, he said. So I went out, took some courses, got trained up, and realized I really like that. Theres a big value in helping other people and going above and beyond what the common person would expect. None of the 27 members of Missoula County Search and Rescue are paid in any way. They do get swiftwater rescue and high-angle rope rescue training, among other things, for free. Last year, they volunteered a combined 4,000 hours on missions and training sessions. Blattner himself donated more than 400 hours of his time. The Missoula County SAR splits an $80,000 annual budget with Seeley-Swan Search and Rescue. They have to know how to drive snowmobiles, inflatable boats, jet boats, ATVs, mobile command units and other rescue vehicles. The Zodiac boat is really nimble, Blattner said. This will allow us to access many portions of waterways in Missoula County. Its got a nice powerful motor on it. Were able to transfer patients or scuba divers or whitewater rescue techs, whatever the case is. Inside the trailers at the countys SAR headquarters, there are snowshoes, cold-water rescue scuba gear, climbing ropes and all sorts of radios and maps. On any given day, members could be called on to get towed behind a snowmobile on skis and then conduct a rescue, or head out on a frozen river to look for a missing person. Thats where having a variety of people comes into play, Blattner said of the diversity of SAR members backgrounds. We have folks who were former smokejumpers who really know the area. We have folks that worked for the Department of Natural Resource Conservation. We have people that really know the electronic equipment. We have a lot of people that know certain areas just because they get out and recreate a lot. Blattner said one of the most intense rescue missions hes been part of was the Mount Jumbo avalanche in the spring of 2014 that destroyed houses and buried several people, including children, and claimed the life of a woman. I know city fire trains for building collapse or those types of events, he said. Search and Rescue trains for avalanche and finding someone in the backcountry setting. Basically we mixed those two together. We mixed in natural gas leaks, downed power lines. And in a very awesome, awesome way, a community that wanted to come out and help. It was definitely a pretty intense scene and difficult scene. So even though we deal with some negative scenes theres a lot of positive outcomes that were able to help with. While Montanas clueless politicians continue to chant coal, coal, coal, the harsh realities of global climate change are coming home to roost in Montana with undeniable impacts. Its too warm, too soon, with too little snow in the mountains right now and, given that 2016 has continued the record-setting global temperature trend of 2015, its clearly past time for the politicians to get off their fossil fuel high horse and start doing what needs to be done to preserve a livable climate for future generations. In a new report, renowned University of Montana economist Tom Power and his geologist son Donovan took a hard look at what the changing climate means to agriculture, one of Montanas largest non-governmental economic sectors, estimated to be one-seventh of the states economy. The numbers are startling and dwarf the losses in the coal industry on which our leaders seem fixated. Shorter winters, fewer days with cold temperatures and more summer days with temps above 95 degrees are changing precipitation from slow-melting snowpack to rain and Montanas winter wheat crops are feeling it. As Montana Farmers Union member Erik Somerfeld told reporter Tom Lutey, as far as most of us are concerned, its already happening and were trying to figure out how to make money with whats already happening and stay in business. Indeed, if Powers projections are accurate, some 12,167 jobs will be lost as ag production declines. That, combined with drought-induced changes to soil conditions and vegetation, could result in losses of $364 million to the ranching industry and $372 million to farmers for a whopping $736 million loss to the states economy annually. To put that in perspective, it would be like draining most of Montanas Coal Severance Tax Trust Fund in one year. Its worth keeping in mind that it has taken more than 40 years to build up the Trust to that level and it is considered the backbone of the states favorable fiscal rating. To think of that loss year after year dwarfs the much-lamented woes of the fossil fuel industry. But the pain wont end there. As we already know, the incidence of river closures due to low flows and high temperatures are becoming the new normal for Montanas world-famous blue ribbon trout streams. Millions of people come to Montana every year to fish for our wild trout, an exceedingly rare asset since most states in the Lower 48 that contain coldwater fisheries regularly plant hatchery trout in their rivers and manage for put and take angling. Montanas self-sustaining wild trout rivers are already changing fast. It was unthinkable only a few decades back that warmwater fish like smallmouth bass would be caught in the Yellowstone River near Livingston. Or that northern pike would find their way up the Missouri River almost to Three Forks. Or that the insect biota of the Missouris famed Holter Dam to Cascade stretch would see a profound on-going alteration thats deleterious to highly prized dry fly angling due to species change. Or how about Glacier National Parks disappearing glaciers? If the predictions are right, and we see a 4-5 degree average temperature increase in the coming years, the rate of disappearing glaciers will only accelerate and, one might assume, the flow of tourists and their dollars will vanish with the melting icefields that gave the park its name. Tourism is as important to Montanas economy as agriculture and growing. But if the natural attractions that draw 10 million visitors to our state annually fall victim to climate change impacts, the hit to the states economy will dwarf the losses from the coal industry. So why do our leading politicians, Sens. Jon Tester and Steve Daines, Congressman Ryan Zinke and Gov. Steve Bullock, have such a tough time getting a firm grasp on the obvious? Climate change isnt a threat that will happen sometime in the future, its an ongoing degradation of Montanas economy thats taking place right now while the losses and impacts are predicted to accelerate. Theres not much government can do under our free market system when major coal companies go bankrupt. But politicians can and should be proactive on promoting policies that serve the vast majority of the people who elected them. Given the economic importance of the ag and tourism sectors now taking a hit from climate change, it seems clear these policymakers must quit whining about coals demise and adjust their priorities immediately or step aside and let more clear-eyed leaders take their place. The recent and unexpected death of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia sent shockwaves across our nation. I was floored when I heard the news. Although I had only met Justice Scalia once, his legacy will have a lasting impact on me. As Scalias long-time best buddy, liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg paid tribute to him perfectly: He was a jurist of captivating brilliance and wit. Scalia was a steadfast supporter of the Constitution who made decisions based upon what is in the text. It is unfortunate that partisanship took over the conversation before the Justice was even laid to rest. The partisan bickering and demands to ignore the Constitution that unfolded after Scalias death is an affront to his legacy. Scalia dedicated his life to serving the Constitution. It is time for the Senate to honor that service and carry out their constitutionally mandated duty to advise. The Constitution reigns supreme. The President is not a king. It is also a well-known fact that it takes two to tango. My colleagues in the Senate have an obligation to provide advice to the President on nominees. Unlike the President and his followers, Republicans in Congress and the majority of Americans believe the Second Amendment guarantees the rights of all law-abiding Americans to bear arms. We believe executive amnesty, the Clean Power Plan and Waters of the U.S. are gross oversteps of executive authority. And we know forcing the military to transfer prisoners and close Guantanamo Bay Prison is downright criminal. Rather than burying their heads in the sand, I would like to see the Senate put forth legitimate standards for a qualified and capable nominee. There is no mandate for the Senate to confirm whomever the President nominates, but they should be proactive and provide sound advice to the President as to whom they would consider. Any nominee should meet the following requirements: Possess unconditional respect for the Constitution and its original intent, knowing decisions must be based upon what is written in the text. Belief that the Second Amendment guarantees all law-abiding citizens the right to bear arms and that the government may not infringe on that right. Belief in the separation and balance of power between the executive, legislative and judicial branches, and that no one branch or person is above this. Belief that the President cannot unilaterally create laws or force agencies to ignore laws. President Obama has a history of writing his own rules and ignoring the laws he doesnt like. This is clearly beyond his constitutional authority, and I have voted every chance possible to stop him in his tracks. Attorney General Tim Fox has brought cases forward at every opportunity to stop Obamas Clean Power Plan, WOTUS and executive amnesty. With this administrations onerous rules looming in the courts, the severity of the nomination before us cant be overstated. News recently broke that President Obama was floating Nevada Republican Gov. Brian Sandoval as a potential successor. Sandoval withdrew his name because he knew it was nothing more than political gamesmanship to try and cast Republicans as obstructionist. If the President were serious about the governor, he would put his money where his mouth is and actually nominate him rather than using his status as a Republican to browbeat the U.S. Senate. At the same time, I believe the Senate has an equal constitutional duty to advise the President on the characteristics and standards that would define a nominee that would pass that body. Montanans are tired of this President, with good reason. Whether it is his willingness to trample on his constitutional limitations or his incessant knack for politicizing every possible issue that comes across his desk, we have had enough. But my colleagues in the Senate have a unique opportunity before them. To the Senate I say: Fully embrace your job. Fully embrace the Constitution and proactively define the criteria for who should fill Justice Scalias shoes. They are big shoes to fill, but America did not give us the congressional majority to do small things. Weve all seen these people in Montanas outdoors: the angler who spends only a single day on the river each year, yet shows off an expensive handmade rod that most of us would die for; the big-city hunter decked out in top-of-the-line gear who writes a big check to shoot a trophy. While theres nothing wrong with being a novice and certainly nothing wrong with out-of-staters spending money in our state, we all can tell the difference between Montanans who truly know the outdoors and others who only dress the part. A true champion of our outdoor heritage is never satisfied with dressing the part. A champion is someone who has the courage to go to the mat to fight for our public lands. A champion is someone who has the courage to stand up for access and against anyone who wants to sell or transfer the places we all share. Montana only has one true champion of public lands in Congress and that is Sen. Jon Tester. As the former chairman of the Congressional Sportsmens Caucus, Tester isnt afraid of a fight and hes got the track record to prove it. This year, Tester worked closely with allies on both sides of the aisle to consistently push for permanent reauthorization and full funding of the popular Land and Water Conservation Fund. In the end, Congress negotiated a weakened renewal of the Land and Water Conservation Fund. Though not ideal, Tester can take a bow for keeping this critical issue on the front burner and for being a thorn in the side of those who wanted to destroy the Land and Water Conservation Fund altogether. Jon Tester also worked closely with Montanans and is now on the verge of securing protection of the Badger Two-Medicine area near Glacier National Parksome of the worlds most beautiful public land. Tester ruffled some feathers to keep drilling out of this sacred area and used his clout to do right by hunters, anglers and the people of the Blackfeet Nation. This time last year Montanans were also thanking Jon Tester for leading the effort to protect the Rocky Mountain Front a true sportsmens paradise. By passing the Rocky Mountain Front Heritage Act, Tester assisted the hard work of local Montana ranchers, sportsmen and outfitters who had hammered out a local agreement to keep the Front the way it is. Thats the courage we expect from our elected leaders in Washington. And while our entire delegation deserves credit for protecting the Land and Water Conservation Fund this year, Tester has consistently led the fight in protecting our outdoor heritage since he got to the Senate. We encourage all elected leaders to follow suit. Real champions are few and far between. As someone who still farms the same land his grandparents homesteaded, Jon Tester consistently supports protecting access to our public lands, clean water and the tens of thousands of Montana jobs they sustaineven if it means a getting a few bruises in Washington. And all Montanans are better off for it. BILLINGS Faced with greater restrictions to the medical marijuana trade, some Billings business owners are wondering whether they will be able to keep the doors open. On Thursday, the Montana Supreme Court upheld provisions of a 2011 bill that sought to curb what supporters of the bill as well as some in the medical marijuana community saw as abuses of the medical marijuana program. Among other things, the decision restricts registered providers to only three patients and triggers a state review of doctors who recommend the drug to more than 25 people. Jason Smith, co-owner of Montana Advanced Caregivers in Billings, said that hell be finished by early March. He said that he cant stay in business with just three customers. We have to shut down, he said. Theres no alternative. Montana Advanced Caregivers has been in business for nearly five years and provided medical marijuana for up to 400 registered cardholders at a time. Two weeks ago, Smith said that they renovated their south Billings shop to include a retail area in a small room in front of the growing operation. On Friday, Smith said he laid off nine employees after the high court decision was made. In addition to financial implications, Smith said that he wouldnt be able to pick three patients to keep in accordance to the new rules. His eyes welled up when he described telling his patients with debilitating medical conditions that hes closing up shop. Its been busy down here today, he said. A lot of tears. The clampdown on medical marijuana hits on two fronts, Smith said. On one end, he is limited to providing to three patients. On the other side of the process sit physicians, who now face review from the state Board of Medical Examiners if they approve more than 25 people for medical pot. Smith said that it's now tough to find doctors who will approve patients because many of them are near or past the 25 mark. It was a small pool of medical professionals to start with, he added. That puts Elizabeth Pincolini in a tight spot. Shes not a provider but runs Alternative Wellness of Montana, a referral service that helps patients get doctor consultations. The business is based in Billings but operates across the state, with a separately owned affiliate in northwest Montana. Like Smith, Pincolini said that many of the physicians she works with are uneasy about breaching that 25-patient mark. No one wants to risk their medical license before the medical board of examiners, she said. In the court decusion, state Justice Laurie McKinnon wrote that the board review doesn't necessarily lead to punishment. It's meant to determine if the doctor meets a "standard of care." Pincolini is also considering whether she will will be able to keep a viable business if doctors begin backing out. She said that she works with up to five physicians on a regular basis and could see 30 prospective patients in a day. Without a large pool of doctors willing to recommend marijuana, she said her business is at risk. "Unless we can bring in another 150 to 200 doctors, I don't know how we're going to make this work," Pincolini said. The Supreme Court decision came at the tail end of a five-year legal battle. It started with the passage of a bill in the 2011 Montana Legislature that drastically cut back the medical marijuana program. By that time, the number of registered cardholders had exploded. The bill, sponsored by then-state Sen. Jeff Essmann of Billings, aimed to cut abuses of the system. Those included traveling certification caravans and exaggerated medical claims by patients, as the Supreme Court noted in its decision. A lawsuit, and later an appeal, put some provisions of the bill on hold. On Thursday, the high court affirmed most of those provisions. In addition to the three-patient limit for providers and the 25-patient review trigger for doctors, medical marijuana providers aren't allowed to advertise. Another provision allows law enforcement agencies to conduct unannounced, warrantless inspections of registered provider businesses. The Supreme Court did reject one provision of the 2011 bill, one that would have banned providers from being paid for the service. Patients are still allowed to grow and possess a certain amount of their own marijuana. In the meantime, some providers have a lot of marijuana to unload before it's deemed as an illegal amount under the new restrictions. While walking through Montana Advanced Caregivers, surrounded by flowering marijuana plants, Smith said that he fears some of his patients will turn back to the black market for marijuana. He might move to Washington and start a new business. For now, Smith said that he's going to stay in Billings and act as a consultant to patients who want to grow their own. They'll get a head start with Smith's plants. "On that last day, all the patients will have plants in their yards," he said. Editor's note: This story has been modified to reflect a clarification to the original story. The clarification: A policy change at Montana Developmental Center in Boulder does not mean the institutions policy is to allow consensual sex between clients, state officials clarified Wednesday. A story in Sundays Missoulian reported a change in policy recognizing that in some situations, adult clients are able to give affirmative permission, making a sexual act consensual. But, the officials said, MDC staff are trained not to allow such acts, whether they are consensual or not. The policy change means that if an act is deemed to be consensual, the case will not be reported as a case of abuse, as it would if the act were considered non-consensual. While such consensual acts occasionally occur, the state officials said, staff are held accountable because they are charged with enforcing a no-touch rule at the institution with the aim of preventing the occurrence of all sexual acts between clients, whether they are consensual or not. HELENA In late 2015, the Montana Developmental Center in Boulder changed its policy on sexual abuse to change the way the occurrence of consensual sex or sexual contact between clients is reported. Under the new policies, sex or sexual contact between clients is not reported as abuse if affirmative permission is given by the involved clients. Affirmative permission language was not included in the centers previous policies, last updated in 2013. The center changed its policies in August to more closely align with new federal guidelines released that year. The center treats and houses people with serious intellectual disabilities who have been determined by a court to pose an imminent risk of serious harm to themselves or others. While the center is an institution where we do not want clients having sexual contact with each other, occasionally it does happen, said Rebecca de Camara, administrator of the Developmental Services Division of the Montana Department of Health and Human Services, which operates the center. Where it gets tricky is in evaluating incidents that happen, determining whether or not the activity was consensual. De Camara said the centers policies must align with the federal guidelines because the center is funded with federal money. The center had to draft its own language on what defines affirmative permission because while the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services added the term to its guidelines, it didnt provide a definition. Sex or sexual contact between clients and employees still violates the centers policies. Policies also include Montanas state laws covering sex crimes such as sexual intercourse without consent, indecent exposure and incest. Its a good addition to our policy, De Camara said. The change allows the center and two Department of Justice investigators assigned there to more thoroughly analyze reported sexual abuse, she said. I think its important because there are ramifications to accusing and substantiating sexual abuse against a client. It becomes part of their record at MDC. When we are in the process of trying to place clients within the community as were currently doing so aggressively, that is something that is going to hurt their chances for a community placement. Affirmative permission means clients must give consent through words or actions to a specific sexual activity and must have the capacity to consent, according to the center's policies. The client must have sufficient intellectual ability to understand the nature of the sexual activity. The client must also have sufficient psychiatric stability to make a decision to engage in sex or sexual contact. Those qualities are documented by a review of clinical records and consulting with care providers who are familiar with the clients abilities. De Camara said the center contracts with a third-party doctor if it disagrees with the DOJ investigators findings after an investigation. The doctor is a psychologist whose specialty is treating people with developmental and intellectual disabilities who are sex offenders. In 2013, the Legislature passed a bill to establish a DOJ investigator at the center, which has been criticized in the past over sexual interaction between clients, between clients and staff and other abuses, neglect and mistreatment. A bill passed in the 2015 Legislature requires DPHHS to develop a plan to close the center by June 30, 2017. The department must transition most of its residents out of the facility and into community services by Dec. 31. *** The center has a committee that writes policies whenever there is a significant change to the federal guidelines. That committee includes the centers superintendent, clinical director, residential services director, treatment services director, legal counsel and any staff whose work is relevant to the change being made. Staff members are trained on the new policies; clients are told about changes to policies in some instances. This change was not communicated to clients. The policies are also used by the two Department of Justice investigators to define what is classified as sexual abuse. The new changes havent come up a lot yet in investigations, said Dana Toole, chief of the DOJs Childrens Justice Bureau, but they are cases that get a lot of attention. Those tend to be the cases that are lightning rods because anything sexual between clients gets people quite concerned, and probably rightfully so, she said. Clients do have privacy and privacy rights, though it doesnt necessarily mean they will be in a private place when they decide to be sexual. Human beings that are living with a developmental or intellectual disability are still human beings who have a sexual part of their personality, Toole said. The sexual contact that happens in that setting, probably because of the setting, doesnt necessarily have the same patterns that sexuality does out in the regular world. If staff sees clients engaging in sexual activity, they will separate the clients, De Camara said. Any time theres client-to-client sexual contact, they are responsible to report it immediately. If an incident does happen, we always look at whether it was able to happen because of a lack of supervision from our staff. Bernadette Franks-Ongoy, executive director of Disability Rights Montana, said she believes lack of adequate supervision from staff is part of the reason the policy was changed at the federal level. The sex or sexual contact that happens at MDC is opportunistic, she said, and happens when staff are not closely monitoring clients. Any kind of sexual activity that takes place in an institution is per se inappropriate, she said. That goes against the very nature of what it is some people are supposed to be having treated at the facility. De Camara said sometimes sexual contact results from a lack of supervision, and some would be nearly impossible to stop. Clients will do things under the table where staff would have to be under the table to be observing it, she said. We have to evaluate each incident as it happens. If clients have a history of inappropriate sexual contact, their treatment plan will change to allow for things like closer monitoring, De Camara said. Franks-Ongoy believes the nature of an institution like the center makes sexual contact within its walls inappropriate. We certainly appreciate the fact people with disabilities have the right to engage in consensual sexual activity. That being said, we do not believe this is an appropriate policy to be implemented at MDC. Disability Rights Montana has supported the closure of MDC and transferring clients to community-based care facilities. Franks-Ongoy said just because some clients have struggled with inappropriate sexual contact doesnt mean they present a danger to people in those communities. One of the things our organization always says is people with disabilities, even with difficult behavior concerns, with appropriate support can be integrated into communities. Its always with appropriate support. Franks-Ongoy said people with disabilities do have the ability to consent and have healthy physical relationships, but in a private home and not in an institution. *** A client handbook given to all residents says the center has a strict no-touch policy and says no sexual relations between clients are permitted. It continues: Because many of the people who come here have been physically or sexually abused and may feel very uncomfortable being touched, we ask you to respect other peoples boundaries and not touch other clients or MDC staff. Toole said the difference between the policy and the handbook creates issues sometimes because touching isnt a policy violation, but clients might report it as abuse since they are told not to touch each other. That gets confusing, she said. Clients are also not allowed in other clients rooms, according to the handbook. Franks-Ongoy said clients at MDC often don't report something if they feel they will get in trouble, something that could happen if they think they are breaking a rule. They more often than not will not report things because of that fear factor, she said. De Camara said clients are told and encouraged to tell staff if anyone violates their personal space. She said the difference in policies and the handbook creates confusion. Personal space is referred to as a hula-hoop and clients should report anyone in their hula-hoop, she said. An official with the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, part of the federal Department of Health and Human Services, said the change was made to be "more consistent with current practices and technological advances." CMS worked with regional offices, state agencies and other stakeholders on input and feedback for these revisions, the official noted in an email. The revised guidance, effective April 27, 2015, added language defining sexual abuse and clarified those incidents which must be considered sexual abuse and investigated as such, the official said. The guidance also acknowledged that there may be instances where two consenting adults engage in sexual activity and this would not need to be investigated as sexual abuse as long as there was no coercion or lack of understanding, according to the official. *** According to numbers from the DOJs investigations, there were 20 substantiated reports of sexual abuse at the center in 2015. That number has yet to be verified by DPHHS. From May 1, 2014, when the investigator started, through the end of that year, there were three substantiated reports. Most sexual abuse reports are unsubstantiated, Toole said. In an eight-month period in 2014, the center received 159 reports, 59 of which were classified as information only, meaning the information in the reports didnt involve anything that was a violation of policy. In 2015, the center took 1,259 reports, 1,066 of which were information-only; 193 reports resulted in an investigation. Of those, 125 reports were unsubstantiated, three were inconclusive and 65 were substantiated. The jump in reports received came after a change that stopped MDC from pre-screening some reports. Before November 2014, the center had an internal process that screened out some reports before moving them on to the investigator. Clients make complaints to staff, who then tell supervisors. The report is documented in their case management system and sent to the DOJ investigator the same day theyre made. The investigators, based out of Helena, also keep an office at MDC and can receive complaints when at MDC. The DOJs investigations are civil, but if criminal activity is found, the investigator takes the report to the Boulder police and the Jefferson County attorney. HAMILTON Hunters in the Bitterroot Valley better take note of looming permit application deadlines. There are a few changes to hunting regulations this year that could impact the upcoming season for those who dont act soon. The most important is for hunters hoping to fill their freezer with a cow elk from Hunting District 270. They will need to apply for an antlerless permit in the next couple of weeks. Thats a change from the past few years when hunters were required to obtain a B license that had a June deadline. Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks Bitterroot Valley-based biologist Rebecca Mowry said the hope is the change in the regulations will take some of the pressure off the bull population in the popular hunting area. Under the new format, hunters who draw an antlerless permit will not be able to hunt bull elk in HD 270. They will still be able to use their general elk license to hunt bull elk elsewhere in the state. There will be a total of 450 antlerless permits divided in three areas included in HD 270. Half of those will be reserved for youth hunters. Hunters who want to focus their energies on hunting bull elk in the district will once again be required to put in for one of the unlimited bull permits. They will have to choose what they want to hunt this year, Mowry said. Youth hunters will still be able to hunt bull elk in HD 270 with their general license, but if the youth hunter has an antlerless permit, that option to shoot a bull elk goes away. If they get a cow permit, thats what they are going to have to hunt, Mowry said. Like last year, hunters wanting to hunt mule deer in the Bitterroot will need to apply for a permit. The number of permits vary by hunting district, including some districts that dont have a limit on the number of permits allowed. Elk hunters interested in trying their luck in HD 250 in the West Fork of the Bitterroot will need to apply for one of the 35 permits available this year. There are also a small number of mule deer doe permits available for HD 261 in the East Bitterroot for hunting on private lands only. There used to be no opportunity to hunt mule deer does there, Mowry said. There are a lot of does on private land. March 15 is the deadline to apply for deer and elk permits. *** Once hunters navigate the permit application process, the next round gets considerably more complicated when it comes to deciphering the myriad options to hunt whitetail does on private land in the valley. Thats something we are seeing across the region, said wildlife manager Mike Thompson. Its a reflection of wildlife numbers being a lot higher on private lands. Were trying to make licenses readily available to anyone who can get permission to hunt on private land. Bitterroot hunters will have an opportunity to extend their season if they obtain one of the 400 special deer B licenses that run between Dec. 1 and Jan. 1 for antlerless white-tailed deer on private lands in hunting districts 204, 240, 261 and 270. Under the special license, hunters are limited to archery, shotgun, traditional handgun, muzzleloader or crossbow. Hunters successful in the June 1 drawing can purchase up to two additional licenses. We are seeing a lot of game damage on private lands from white-tailed deer, Mowry said. There are additional opportunities for people to hunt white-tailed deer on private lands in nearly every hunting district in the Bitterroot during the general hunting season. All of those require a B license that must be applied for by June 1. There are a lot of changes here in the Bitterroot and in the state, said Tony Jones of the Ravalli County Fish and Wildlife Association. I stay up with all of this as much as anyone and Im confused about some of them. Jones said the club supported all the regulation changes that occurred in the Bitterroot and understands the challenges the state faces in managing ever-growing numbers of deer and elk on private land. There is getting to be so much urban wildlife anymore, Jones said. How do you manage that? You have to micromanage it, and that leads to even more confusing regulations. Mowry said its really all about trying to maximize hunter opportunity. For those hunters just wanting to shoot a bull elk or white-tailed buck, theres not much of a change, Mowry said. Where it gets complicated are in areas where we attempted to get the most opportunity possible for hunters in places that could support some additional pressure. UM Dining leads state in campus food survey Whether its the handmade meatloaf, macaroni and cheese, or the abundance of fresh produce, those surveyed after dining at the University of Montana report greater satisfaction than most college students. According to the Niche 2016 Best College Food ranking, UM Dining is No. 1 in Montana and 84th out of 1,713 colleges and universities nationwide. UM was also the only Montana school to receive a grade of A in the Niche Campus Food category. The National Association of College and University Food Services surveyed campus dining guests in November and found that guest satisfaction related to food service at UM has increased since 2013. The survey, which polled 1,869 people at UM, showed that on average, guests feel theyre getting more value out of their meal plans and are more satisfied with the healthy choices and nutritional content of food than guests at other universities. Ninety-three percent of those surveyed gave UM Dining an overall satisfaction rating of 3 or higher on a 5-point scale. The survey showed UM Dining satisfaction ratings are higher than the national average in the categories of overall food, variety of healthy choices available, nutritional content, overall service, overall cleanliness, environmentally friendly practices and social ethical practices related to food. Find the full survey results online at colleges.niche.com/rankings/best-college-food. *** In other campus news: Calling all future pilots, drone enthusiasts, aeronautical engineers and astronauts: The spectrUM Discovery Area is launching an aeronautics exhibit and field-trip program for K-12 learners. During a 90-minute aeronautics field trip, students will explore flight using balance boards, foam gliders and paper airplanes; learn about Newtons laws of motion and the purpose of airfoils in creating lift; and hone their flying skills on a flight simulator app. As a finale, students will have the opportunity to pilot a drone under an enclosed safety net. An accompanying exhibit, which will include an interactive Wind Wall, will share aeronautics with visitors during museum public hours. SpectrUM created the aeronautics exhibit and field-trip program with a recently awarded education enhancement grant from the Montana Space Grant Consortium and the Montana NASA Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research program. UMs Autonomous Aerial Systems Office provided resources and training to incorporate drone education and flight into the field-trip program. To extend the learning experience beyond the museum walls, teachers whose classes participate in an aeronautics field trip can book a free classroom visit from a UM faculty member or graduate student who will lead aeronautics activities and serve as a higher education and career role model. Teachers interested in booking aeronautics field trips for their classes should call 728-STEM (7836). Field trips cost $75 for 1-15 students, $110 for 16-25 students and $150 for 26-35 students. Free and reduced-cost buses are available on request, and field-trip scholarships are available through spectrUMs Science for All Fund. To learn more about the aeronautics field-trip program, visit spectrum.umt.edu/education/FieldTrips/AeronauticsFieldTrips/default.php. The public can also visit spectrUM at 218 E. Front St. from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. Admission costs $3.50 per person. *** A new office at UM offers resources for researchers, entrepreneurs and hobbyists interested in using unmanned aerial systems, also known as drones. The Autonomous Aerial Systems Office will celebrate its launch with a public fly-in on UMs Oval from 1 to 4 p.m. Thursday. Members of the public and the UM community are invited to bring their own unmanned aerial systems to practice flying under a closed safety net. AASOs small drones also will be available for the public to fly, and staff members will provide safety and flying instruction. Part of the Broader Impacts Group in UMs Office of Research and Creative Scholarship, AASO was created to strengthen understanding and decision-making about the use of unmanned aerial systems in a constantly evolving research and regulatory environment; to establish the infrastructure and resources for sustainable UAS research and creative scholarship; and to stimulate UAS-related innovation, entrepreneurship and workforce development in Montana. AASOs fly-in on the Oval is free and open to the public. Attendees are encouraged to bring their drones. More information on AASO is online at umt.edu/aaso/. *** The Montana Office of Public Instruction has awarded a $139,176 Mathematics and Science Partnership grant to UM and several partner institutions. UM will collaborate with Montana Tech, Montana State University and the Polson School District on the Mathematics and Science Partners for Leadership project, which seeks to transform mathematics and science teaching practices by equipping 20 Montana master teachers with the leadership skills, knowledge and networks needed to advance educational reform in their communities. Multiple studies have shown that the collaboration and collegiality fostered through teacher leadership enhances the capacity for change and improvement at both the classroom and school levels. Participating teachers will complete a yearlong leadership professional development program beginning with a summer institute designed to increase participants capacity to lead and foster change. Following this, each teacher will identify a strategic initiative for the next academic year that advances math and/or science learning in their classroom, building or district. To support the strategic work, teachers will be partnered with a leadership mentor, participate in monthly online special interest forums, receive a $2,000 stipend, and participate in ongoing policy and decision-making activities sponsored by the Office of Public Instruction. UM mathematics education professor David Erickson will work with Lisa Blank, a science education professor in the Phyllis J. Washington College of Education and Human Sciences, on the project. Program recruitment will begin Tuesday. Master teachers interested in participating can email Blank at lisa.blank@umontana.edu for more information. *** UM School of Journalism graduate Kaci Felstet recently placed sixth in the prestigious national Hearst Journalism Awards Program in the Multimedia One/Features category. Felstets piece, Late Start, was produced this past spring as part of the Native News Project, co-taught by assistant professor Jason Begay and associate professor Jeremy Lurgio. Late Start tackles attendance issues at Rocky Boys Elementary School, located in the center of the Rocky Boys Reservation in north-central Montana. Originally, Felstet and her reporting partner, Courtney Anderson, had been researching teacher-retention rates, but realized the storys core remained with the students. Begay and Lurgio chose the theme Relationships for their class in spring 2015. They challenged students to find unique, personal bonds that explored how people on reservations connect with one another, Begay said. She and Anderson traveled to the Rocky Boy Reservation during spring break and spent several days following their characters and gathering classroom footage at the elementary school. Felstet said the kindergartners needed some time to get used to the cameras and stop making funny faces at them, but their patience paid off in the end. Felstet and Andersons collaborative piece can be found on the Native News Project website at nativenews.jour.umt.edu/2015/, which features more stories from reservations in Montana. WASHINGTON Breaking a decade-long silence, Justice Clarence Thomas on Monday suddenly started asking questions from the Supreme Court bench. After saying nothing for years during oral arguments that have helped shape the fabric of American law, Justice Thomas seemed eager to re-engage as he subjected a government lawyer to a number of pointed inquiries. But Justice Thomas said nothing to clear up why he had chosen to end his silence now, exactly 10 years and one week after his last question. His record will stand for a long time it has no modern competition. It has been at least 45 years since any other member of the court went even a single term without asking a question. Justice Thomass explanations for his disengagement have varied, but he has said lately that the other justices simply asked so many questions that they were rude to the lawyers before them. The member of the court who asked the most questions was Justice Antonin Scalia, whose empty seat next to Justice Thomass remained draped in black. MADRID A terrorist to some, an independence leader to others, Arnaldo Otegi has been in and out of Spanish courts and prisons for three decades for his links to ETA, the separatist group that has led a violent campaign for an independent Basque homeland. His last conviction for trying to rebuild an outlawed party that was ETAs political arm made him something of a cause celebre. Nobel Peace Prize winners like Adolfo Perez Esquivel and Desmond Tutu lobbied for his freedom. On Tuesday, Mr. Otegi, 57, will be released, after Spains Supreme Court reduced a 10-year sentence that was strongly criticized by international lawyers and human rights activists to six and half years. The prospect of his freedom and what it might mean for the Basque cause is already raising alarm in Spain at a time of deep paralysis in national politics and a serious separatist challenge from the larger region of Catalonia. While I'd love for you to freely share any information, photos and stories you find here with friends and family, please contact me before printing or for public use. Thank you! The views expressed on this blog are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of OMS International nor of Emmaus Biblical Seminary. MISSOULA Despite a series of successes in the past year, the staff at the Montana Innocence Project know they have a lot of work still ahead of them. The nonprofit organization established in 2008 focuses on exonerating prisoners in the state who it believes are innocent of the crimes they have been convicted of. Each week, the organization receives three or four letters from inmates asking for their case to be reviewed. Of the more than 600 cases the group has screened since its founding, legal director Larry Mansch said less than a dozen have been accepted to be litigated. The final step in choosing to take a client is putting their information in front of a screening committee, which is made of members of the board of directors. "The big difference for us is actual innocence, not a technicality for not guilty," said Frank Sweeney, a Whitefish attorney and one of the founding board members. Another aspect of their work that many people don't always think about, executive director Joe Bischof said, is the flip side of what happens when an innocent person is put in prison. "That means there's an actual guilty person still out there, possibly committing more crimes," he said. The Montana Innocence Project got its start in 2008 when Jessie McQuillan, then a reporter for the Missoula Independent, became more and more interested in the case of Barry Beach. She began to talk with Dan Weinberg, a Beach supporter who saw the convicted murderer's exoneration efforts as a sign that there were many cases in the state that needed to be reexamined. At the time, Mansch said Montana was one of the few states without an Innocence Project. "He thought, 'Barry Beach gets all of the publicity, but surely there's other people who are behind bars who are innocent,'" Mansch said. Beach's case has brought more attention to the subject of exoneration in recent years, Mansch said, adding that the Montana Innocence Project has worked on the case in a secondary, supporting role. The organization is almost entirely funded by individuals who believe in the Montana Innocence Project's mission, with some additional money from grants. Much of what they are able to accomplish, Bischof said, is due to the lawyers, law students, medical staff and others who volunteer their time for the cause. The Montana Innocence Project's court wins in 2015 include a decision in July from the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in the case of Bill Watson, convicted in 2006 of raping a teenage girl. In the decision, the court found that scientific advancements that mean previously un-testable or inconclusive DNA must now be seen as newly-discovered evidence and not subject to previous time limits. "The science of DNA and the ability to test in detail has improved. It is now considered new evidence because you couldn't test it before," Sweeney said. Last August, the Montana Innocence Project had another pair of victories when the Montana Supreme Court granted new trials in separate cases, sending them back to Missoula district court. The cases were those of Robert Wilkes, convicted in 2010 of shaking his 3-month-old baby to death, and Cody Marble, who was convicted in 2002 of raping a boy in juvenile detention. The Innocence Project believed Wilkes received inadequate representation by his public defender and that the conviction had relied heavily on testimony from then-associate state medical examiner Dr. Thomas Bennett. The Montana Attorney General's Office ended Bennett's appointment last July after questions arose about his autopsies of children. In Marble's case, the Montana Innocence Project found that the accuser had repeatedly recanted his story, although he later reneged on the recantation. Finally, in October, a judge in Sanders County District Court overturned the conviction of another of the organization's clients, Richard Raugust. Raugust originally had been sentenced to life in prison in 1997 for the murder of a Trout Creek man. The Innocence Project won in court by claiming, among other issues, that evidence of innocence and witness testimony had been withheld at the first trial. Apart from exonerating those already convicted, the Montana Innocence Project also is working with prosecutor's offices and law enforcement agencies across the state to help ensure that wrongful convictions don't happen to begin with, including trying to improve how eyewitness testimony is collected. The Montana Innocence Project also is planning to work to make changes at the legislative level, including a push for statewide requirements to preserve DNA evidence for a set period of time. "Ideally for us, that would be the life or incarceration time for a defendant," Sweeney said. "Regardless of how convinced we are at the time, the science evolves." Mansch and Bischof are the only two full-time employees of the Montana Innocence Project. At the start of October 2015, the organization lost one of its employees in a climbing accident when the body of 26-year-old Spencer Veysey, who was vacationing in Colorado, was found on the east face of Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park. Veysey, who graduated from the University of Montana's School of Journalism in 2012, had been working with the Montana Innocence Project since he was a student, eventually serving as the organization's on-staff investigator. Mansch said he was a tireless worker with a great passion for the work he did for the Innocence Project. "At a memorial service in Missoula, I said the first word those people who are released should have come out of their mouths is 'Thank God for Spencer Veysey,'" he said. Without him, the organization has been without a dedicated investigator, an issue Mansch said they are hoping to be able to address this year. The project also is continuing to work on the cases of Richard Burkhart, who in 2002 was convicted of killing a man with a ball-peen hammer in Great Falls. The Innocence Project has found witnesses who never were contacted by law enforcement and never testified in the case. It also hopes to secure a new trial for Katie Garding of Stevensville, sentenced in 2011 for hitting and killing Bronson Parsons with her car in East Missoula in 2008. Sweeney said they do not believe her car was involved, as he claims it was not damaged. They also question the testimony of Garding's boyfriend, who Sweeney said had an incentive to cooperate in her conviction as a "snitch" in a deal with prosecutors. Mansch said they also are in the process of evaluating new cases to take up. The Innocence Project has a five-tier system for evaluation with about 15 cases currently in the middle stages where claims of innocence and potential new information and evidence are examined. "We are dedicated to carrying on the fight," Mansch said. Students in UM's School of Social Work have put together a guide of programs and other information for people released from jail who are working to reintegrate into society in Missoula, Mansch said. This year, the Montana Innocence Project is hoping to develop similar guides for other large cities across the state. Bischof said 2015 was a record year for exonerations in the U.S., as a University of Michigan Law School study showed 149 cases where a person was declared innocent or had their conviction overturned. Sweeney said the rate has become so prevalent that some communities in Texas, the state with the most exonerations last year, have set up special conviction integrity units within prosecutors' offices solely to look into claims of innocence. Bischof said if national trends hold true for Montana, the Innocence Project is likely only on the "tip of the iceberg" in the number of cases where the innocent are imprisoned in our state. The Montana Department of Environmental Quality is in the midst of analyzing a mine operating permit submitted by Tintina Montana Inc. And as the company looks to get the project underway, it is already touting the mining potential near White Sulphur Springs that could last for decades. The Black Butte Copper Project is a small mine proposal by most estimations, targeting high-grade ore underground. The project has stirred emotions for years between supporters who look forward to an economic boon for Meagher County and opponents who point to minings poor environmental record in Montana and argue the mines proximity to a tributary of the Smith River jeopardizes the iconic waterway. As Black Butte works its way through permitting, a process estimated to last two years, Tintinas President and CEO Bruce Hooper has pitched interested investors in part on long-term exploration and mining potential for the area. Materials for prospective investors echo the possibilities, mentioning numerous untested extensions along strike over 20km and district-wide potential to extend mine life and establish a 50-year district. In many ways wed love to get out and do some more exploration but its not part of our short- and medium-term plans, Hooper said in an interview. Permitting is really our focus right now. If permitted, Tintina will mine copper deposits called the Johnny Lee located about 15 miles north of White Sulphur Springs. Another deposit, called the Lowry, was discovered a short distance away but is not part of the current mine proposal. In 2014, Tintina purchased 40 federal mining claims adjacent to Black Butte. At the time Vice President of Exploration Jerry Zieg said the purchase guarded against competition. He also mentioned potential exploration but noted the company had no immediate plans. Tintina still sees the claims in a similar way, Hooper said, adding that the purchases are probably it for the time being. Black Buttes small size using modern mining techniques has been a staple of Tintinas public message as it seeks a permit. But with an estimated mine life of between 11 and 14 years, long-term potential is something important to investors and employees, Hooper said. For the investment community, spending a lot more money if you dont know it can be permitted does not make sense, he said. Once its in operation, then well certainly look to extend the mine life. Thats a positive for the community weve invested in as well that its not just a short-term operation and theyll benefit from any new discovery. Many White Sulphur Springs residents have thrown their support behind the mine, with Meagher County commissioners among the staunchest advocates. In an interview with commissioners last year, Chairman Herb Townsend said he was convinced Tintina was taking extra steps to ensure responsible mining and questioned the messaging of outside groups opposed to the mine as relying on scare tactics. Hooper emphasized that any new mining would be the subject of the same permitting process and scrutiny as Black Butte. Mine expansion is also a common practice in the industry as mines often explore and grow over time, he added. Because of legal agreements with area landowners, future mining would be underground, he said. You just cant have an open pit mine in this area, Hooper said. Opponents of the mine questioned whether Black Butte is simply a foot in the door for a larger vision of a half-century of expansive mining encompassing multiple tributaries. Our primary concern here is what theyre selling Montanans is a small footprint, underground mine with a relatively minor impact, when in reality what theyre telling investors is this is a much larger project that will create an industrialized zone, said Derf Johnson, Clean Water Program director and staff attorney for Montana Environmental Information Center. While mines initially seeking permitting go through a gamut of analysis, amending existing operating permits is a common practice with a lower environmental review, he said. As an example, Johnson pointed to multiple amendments to the operating permit for Golden Sunlight Mine near Whitehall. I think theyve been selling us something theyre not entirely interested in and they havent been telling the full truth, he said. I think they really want to turn this into a big money-maker. As it considers permitting, DEQ should consider the talk of potential expansion as a potential impact, Johnson said. But DEQ has nothing to suggest Tintina is planning beyond its permit application, nor could it consider potential expansion unless it was concurrently considering another project, DEQ Public Policy Director Kristi Ponozzo said. DEQ is limited by the Montana Environmental Policy Act to concurrent considerations, she said, with separate analysis for future proposed projects. As Tintina submitted its operating permit for DEQs initial review in December, Trout Unlimited convened a technical review team to scrutinize the application. On Wednesday, the team released its findings, which highlight several concerns including what it calls incomplete and insufficient data for fisheries and hydrology. Because the Smith is one of Montanas most beloved rivers, the Black Butte mine proposal requires world-class scientific scrutiny, Bruce Farling, executive director of Montana Trout Unlimited said in a statement. Were confident thousands of Montanans agree with our view that the state of Montana should not permit this mine unless it has been demonstrated with near 100-percent scientific certainty that it poses no risk to water or fish. Its clear to us the information Tintina has provided to the state falls far short of this threshold. DEQ must make a determination within 90 days of receiving the application, at which time it notes any deficiencies and Tintina will have an opportunity to remedy them. If the permit application is accepted, Tintina must then pay for an environmental impact statement which will include chances for the public to comment. Dave Chambers, president of the nonprofit Center for Science in Public Participation, coordinated with Trout Unlimiteds review team and says he believes Black Butte is ripe for expansion. While he says he would not consider himself independent, he does believe his analysis is objective. Its pretty obvious theres more potential for expansion, and our primary concern is how much and what kind of mining, Chambers said. Tintina says it will not use open-pit mining due to agreements with landowners, but it doesnt offer a guarantee, its just a statement, Chambers said, adding that several surface mineralized zones lend themselves to open-pit mining. An additional concern is the proximity of some of the claims to tributaries and the main stem of the Smith River, he said. The Black Butte site is 19 miles from the river, but Tintinas claims extend much closer. DEQs response to Tintinas mine operating permit is due out in March. BLOG Sunday 28th February 2016, Coastal Kenya. An excellent day, first I traveled by tuk tuk to Mtwapa, Kings Highway Baptist Church, for early morning prayer and to play my harmonica with the Praise and Worship Group. It was good. and Pastor Nicolas preached a fine sermon based on: << Psalm 20 New King James Version (NKJV) To the Chief Musician. A Psalm of David. 1 May the Lord answer you in the day of trouble; May the name of the God of Jacob defend you; 2 May He send you help from the sanctuary, And strengthen you out of Zion; 3 May He remember all your offerings, And accept your burnt sacrifice. Selah 4 May He grant you according to your hearts desire, And fulfill all your purpose. 5 We will rejoice in your salvation, And in the name of our God we will set up our banners! May the Lord fulfill all your petitions. 6 Now I know that the Lord saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven With the saving strength of His right hand. 7 Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; But we will remember the name of the Lord our God. 8 They have bowed down and fallen; But we have risen and stand upright. 9 Save, Lord! May the King answer us when we call. >> At just after ten am, I traveled from Mtwapa to Bamburi, to Prophetic Embassy Church there. The sun was shining and the weather was absolutely beautiful. There were several preachers, including me, and I preached about Have a plan, and you can if you are interested my notes for the sermon are posted on: https://web.facebook.com/JohnWaldenInternationalMinistry/ Later, Prophet William presented his sermon on: << Psalm 23 New King James Version (NKJV) A Psalm of David. 1 The Lord is my shepherd; I shall not want. 2 He makes me to lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside the still waters. 3 He restores my soul; He leads me in the paths of righteousness For His names sake. 4 Yea, though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil; For You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me. 5 You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You anoint my head with oil; My cup runs over. 6 Surely goodness and mercy shall follow me All the days of my life; And I will dwell in the house of the Lord Forever. >> Jay picked me up in his tuk tuk at 2:00 pm, to take me back to the house in Shanzu where I am staying. Lencer cooked a delicious fish supper, after which her sister Belinda called around and invited us to a local bar for a drink. Lencer didn't want to go, but I had a most enjoyable time sitting under avocado and palm trees... All the locals were drinking cane liquor, a drink that I find unpleasant in the extreme. It is made from fermented coconut and smells and tastes horrible (at least to me!)... They actually add a small piece of beetroot to their drink to enhance the flavor. I have never seen that done before. A great day! Photo #1 Kings Highway Baptist Church Photo #2 Prophetic Embassy Church (Weapons and Warfare) The Iran-Iraq War was one of the longest and deadliest in recent histories. Iran full of zeal after its revolution... Les emplois a Rennes sont abondants et varies. Il y a quelque chose pour tout le monde. Que vous soyez a la recherche dun emploi [] Les blattes ou cafards (Blatta orientalis) sont des insectes qui appartiennent a la famille des Blattoptera. Ils se caracterisent par leur forme allongee, leurs ailes [] Workgroups at the South African Bureau of Standards (SABS) are considering changing the countrys new plug and socket standard from preferred to semi-mandatory for new installations. Thats the word from the Electrical Contractors Association of South Africa, or ECA(SA). The association said that although it has seen an increase in the use of South Africas new plug standard, it has not been to the extent intended. For this reason, the SABS is considering changing existing wording in the Wiring Code from being the preferred standard for new installations to something more definitive, like: For new installations, effective from March 2018, all socket outlets shall incorporate at least one socket complying to the dimensions of SANS 1642. SANS 1642 or ZA Plug has the same hexagonal profile as the Europlug commonly seen on cellphone chargers, but allows for an earth pin. The change is under consideration at the SABS plug and socket workgroup, and the Wiring Code workgroup. According to the ECA, a draft of the amendments is expected to be circulated for public comment within the next month or so. South Africas old, new plug standard While the ZA Plug discussions are new, the standard itself is more than a decade old. The current South African standard is based on the even older IEC 609061 standard, which was published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) in 1986. This international standard was originally developed in an effort to establish a global plug and socket standard, but according to the IEC many commercial and political interests caused the initiative to fail. South Africa remains the only country in the world to have adopted the IEC standard as it was intended to be used. Brazil also uses the plug shape, but deviated from the standard by delivering either 127V or 220V mains using the same socket. While talk of adopting the new standard began in South Africa as far back as 1993, and a version of SANS 1642 that dates back to 2006 is readily available online, the ZA Plug only appeared in South Africas wiring code much later. The SABS previously told MyBroadband that the first mention of SANS 1642 was in version 1.8 of the SABS Standards for the Wiring of Premises Part 1, which was published in 2012. It said the ZA Plug will be safer and probably cheaper than existing plugs when adopted. Another benefit of the ZA Plug is that you will no longer need an adapter for devices that use a double-insulated two-prong Europlug. Energy expert Chris Yelland has welcomed this, as he said such adapters are costly and often sub-standard. No rush for now Despite the benefits of the new standard, South Africans will not be rushed to replace the sockets in their homes or the plugs on their devices. While the proposed amendment aims to make ZA Plug sockets semi-compulsory for new installations, it doesnt say anything about existing socket outlets. This means that even when the proposed changes become official regulation, they will not require you to change the sockets installed in your house. More on the ZA Plug standard South Africas new plug standard: what to expect The truth about SAs new electrical plug standard Tens of thousands of Netflix users, including privacy activists, are protesting against the streaming companys expanding VPN and proxy crackdown, according to a report by TorrentFreak. Netflix started blocking some VPN services towards the end of January, in a bid to prevent non-US subscribers accessing the services US catalogue. As a result, it has become harder to use VPN services and proxies to access Netflix content from other countries, something various movie studios have repeatedly called for, stated TorrentFreak. The publication said this has resulted in fierce resistance from thousands of users. This includes an OpenMedia petition urging Netflix to rethink its approach, signed by 33,000 people. Privacy is a huge priority for us as a digital rights organisation, and that VPNs are probably the simplest, most user-friendly way for everyday Internet users to safeguard their online activities, said OpenMedia. Given that a huge percentage of the population uses Netflix, if they were all forced to stop using VPNs, that would represent a major setback for privacy. More on Netflix You may not use us to unblock Netflix: UnoTelly This is why Netflix launched in South Africa It was reported yesterday that Barclays Bank is exiting Africa. The banks new Chief Executive will announce tomorrow of the Banks decision, according to CNBC. Apparently, they want to focus on their UK and US business. There has been panic here in Kenya on what will happen to existing customers and accounts. Through its Facebook page yesterday, the bank rubbished the reports, saying it has no intention of shutting down. It is factually incorrect that Barclays Bank of Kenya ltd (BBK) is shutting down in Kenya. We have a clear strategy or our Kenya business and there are no plans at a local, regional or group level to shut it down. Your accounts are and continue to be safe and are not impacted in any way. The speculation concerns shareholding of Barclays Africa Group ltd and does not impact the day to day running of BBK. Please do not be concerned, your deposits are safe and the operation ofyour account will not be impacted. BBK is a significant player in the Kenyan Banking industry and is well capitalised and liquid. We remain at your service However, some reports have it that though the parent group is exiting, the Bank will remain operational under different shareholders and probably different name. Well keep you informed on the developments. A 17 year old boy, originally from Kenya, is in a coma after being shot by Salt Lake City police. Abdi Mohamed was shot 3 times according to his family. According to witnesses, a fight broke out between Mohamed and another man in the Rio Grande District of Salt Lake City around 8 p.m. I dont have much details on the shooting itself, said Det. Greg Wilking of the Salt Lake City Police Department, adding later, Thats what it sounds like: There was an altercation taking place, and our officers intervened into that altercation. Abdi had reportedly picked up a broken broom stick just before the police arrived. The police said, drop it, once, then they shot him four times, Selam Mohammed who was walking with Abdi told Fox News. We were trying to break it up before the police even came, but the police ran in on foot and pulled their guns out already. They already had them, like, as soon as he was running he was already grabbing for his gun, not even trying to Tase him or anything. Following the shooting, crowds of angry people started demonstrating, throwing objects at police. As a result, more officers were brought in. Abdi moved to the US from Kenya 10 years ago, and according to family, he lives in West Valley City with his girlfriend and their son. He was a really caring, good, loving boyfriend, and a really, good caring loving father, I know what he was doing every day, the things he would do for us, I wouldnt expect that from him he just wanted to make sure we were loved and we were happy he put us in front of everything, said girlfriend Becca Monson. Monson said she hopes people dont judge him unfairly. Im really angry and really sad, I just want to see him honestly, I just want to see him and make sure he knows that he is loved and there are people out here that care about him and there are people that want to see him do good, Monson said. Additional reporting by Fox13 The National Youth Service corruption saga that the top Jubilee leadership defended as clean, pro-youth and part of the grand plan to develop the country and create jobs has now come out to be grand corruption and theft we always said it was. Its architects have named some of its once fierce defenders as among those who either benefitted from the scheme directly or abetted the grand theft through acts of omission and commission. Some elected leaders and members of the Executive who were vocal in praise of the NYS appear to have worked for individuals and firms that did shady business with the same institution. This presents a serious case of conflict of interest and raises integrity questions that go against the Leadership and Integrity provisions of the Constitution. National Assembly Majority Leader Aden Duale, Senate Deputy Majority Leader Kipchumba Murkomen and Treasury Cabinet Secretary Henry Rotich fall in this category of public officers who have been mentioned to have benefitted directly or indirectly and also abetted this theft from Kenyans. Hon Duale, Senator Murkomen and Mr. Rotich now have to resign from their appointive positions until their role in this saga is thoroughly investigated and established. Everyone is entitled to a fair trial in Kenya and these men should certainly get one. By acts of commission or omission, these leaders have shattered the confidence and trust of the Kenyan people. They need to be held to account for that. The best thing they can do for the country is to resign and pave way for investigations. Recent court rulings in alleged corruption cases against governors will allow Hon Duale and Senator Murkomen to retain their elective positions as Garissa Township MP and Elgeyo-Marakwet Senator respectively. But they have to get out of the appointive positions. If you are paid to represent majority of Kenyans in the National Assembly and Senate, to fight for them and to solve their problems, you cannot use that privilege to instead rip off the same Kenyans and continue to use your positions and resources made available to you by virtue of those positions, to defend yourself and rubbish those who have named you as Hon Duale and Sen Murkomen are doing. The same goes for Mr Rotich. The elected leaders mentioned in the NYS scam share a thread arrogance and holding of citizens in extreme low esteem. Hon Duale has treated this country to the sad comedy of promising to name sympathizers and financiers of terrorism in Kenya, a promise he has not kept to date; while terrorists continue to kill hundreds of Kenyans. A failure by the Jubilee government to demand the resignation of these senior parliamentary leaders and the Treasury boss will push the Government down a new low. The breach of trust and impunity cannot be allowed to run forever. Leadership must be by example and must carry responsibility. This country is better than what these leaders have displayed and it deserves better than those who have proven to be out of their depth and incapable of upholding the integrity their positions demand. Moreover, the rules in the fight against corruption must be applied equally and in a predictable manner. Other Cabinet secretaries have been made to resign out of allegations of involvement in corruption. The law that was applied in the cases of Charity Ngilu, Kazungu Kambi, Felix Koskei, Davis Chirchir and Michael Kamau must apply in the case of NYS and its suspects. RT HON RAILA ODINGA; EGH FEBRUARY 27, 2016. KISUMU: BENTONVILLE, Ark. Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump is trying to deflect attention from a class-action civil lawsuit involving the former Trump University by pointing to the ethnic background of the judge in the case. Asked on Fox News Sunday what U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiels ethnicity has to do with the lawsuit against him, Trump replied: I think it has to do perhaps with the fact that Im very, very strong on the border, very, very strong at the border, and he has been extremely hostile to me, Trump said. According to the California class-action complaint in front of Curiel, a one-year apprenticeship that Trump University students were promised ended after students paid for a three-day seminar. Attendees who were promised a personal photo with Trump received only the chance to take a photo with a cardboard cutout. And many instructors were bankrupt real estate investors. Trump University emerged as a campaign issue at Thursdays GOP debate, raised by Florida Sen. Marco Rubio. There are people who borrowed $36,000 to go to Trump University, and theyre suing now $36,000 to go to a university thats a fake school, Rubio said. And you know what they got? They got to take a picture with a cardboard cutout of Donald Trump. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz jumped in, adding: Its a fraud case. ... I want you to think about, if this man is the nominee, having the Republican nominee on the stand in court, being cross-examined about whether he committed fraud. At a rally in Arkansas on Saturday, Trump took a break from his standard campaign speech to downplay the lawsuit pending against the business, which was founded by Trump and offered students instruction on real estate investments. Its a small deal, very small, Trump said of the suit, which could force him to take the stand this summer. Trump specifically railed against the judge in the case, and at one point noted the judges Hispanic ethnicity. Trump claimed the case should have been thrown out years ago, but because it was me and because theres a hostility toward me by the judgetremendous hostilitybeyond belief. He then noted, as an aside: I believe he happens to be Spanish, which is fine. Hes Hispanic which is fine. A message left for Curiel, was not immediately returned. Curiel is a judge in the Southern District of California and based in San Diego. New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, whose office has filed a separate civil $40 million complaint against Trump University in state court, accused Trump of racial demagoguery. Schneiderman sued Trump University in 2013 alleging it committed fraud and fleeced 5,000 people out of millions of dollars. I will not engage in a debate about ongoing litigation, Schneiderman said in a statement issued after Trump made his comments. But there is no place in this process for racial demagoguery directed at respected members of the judiciary. Schneiderman noted that New Yorks state Supreme Court ruled that Trump University operated illegally in New York as an unlicensed educational institution. Schneidermans suit alleges that Trump University falsely promoted itself as an educational institution even after the state education department warned it to stop. The complaint accuses Trump of falsely promising that Trump University students would receive intense training from experts hand-picked by Trump himself. During breaks in the seminars, Schneidermans complaint alleges, participants were urged to call their credit card companies and ask to increase their credit limits. Once the credit lines were secured, Trump University staff tried to persuade students to pay for additional services. Trump, at the rally, dismissed the cases as the work of a sleazebag law firm and suggested that Schneidermans intervention was politically motivated. I couldve settled this suit numerous times. Could settle it now. But I dont like settling suits, Trump said. WOODBRIDGE, Va. On her first day on the job, Officer Ashley Guindon responded to a call that could have become routine: a domestic disturbance in a well-kept suburban neighborhood. But one woman had already been slain inside the northern Virginia home of a Pentagon worker, and Officer Guindon would be next. Army Sgt. Ronald Hamilton opened fire as she arrived at his door, killing her and wounding two other officers, police said Sunday. Prince William County Police Chief Stephan Hudson was stone-faced Sunday as he lauded Guindons bravery, intelligence and compassion. The chief offered no details about what might have provoked the gunman, who worked at the Pentagon and, according to neighbors, was about to be transferred to Italy. Hamilton, 32, and his wife Crystal, 29, had been arguing all day Saturday, but it escalated after she called 911, the chief said. Hamilton fatally shot his wife and then fired at the arriving officers, killing Guindon and seriously wounding the others before emerging from his front door to surrender. Officers recovered a handgun and a rifle. The couples 11-year-old son was home at the time of the slayings and is being cared for by relatives, Hudson said. Guindon, 28, was pronounced dead at the hospital where officers Jesse Hempen, 31, and David McKeown, 33, were being treated on Sunday. Police did not detail their injuries. Hudson said they face long recoveries. Commonwealths Attorney Paul Ebert said he would likely seek the death penalty against Hamilton, who was held without bond on charges including capital murder, first-degree murder and malicious wounding pending a Monday morning arraignment. Guindon, a former Marine Corps reservist with a masters degree in forensic science, had been sworn in on Friday, which the department marked with a celebratory tweet. We were struck by her passion to do this job, Hudson said. She couldnt get it out of her blood. She clearly had a passion to serve others in a way that went beyond herself. Guindons death was not the first tragedy to strike her family. Her father, David, killed himself the day after he returned home from Iraq, where he served with the New Hampshire Air National Guard. He came home and took his own life, Dorothy Guindon, Ashleys grandmother, told The Associated Press. He was buried with full military honors on Aug. 26, 2004. Ashley was his only child. She was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, and the family later moved to Merrimack, New Hampshire, her grandmother said. This is really a shock to us, Dorothy Guindon said. Ashley was such a nice person. Mark Doyle, the police chief in Merrimack, told The AP that his officers escorted Guindons mother and aunt to the airport to fly to Virginia. You wonder what she could have been able to accomplish, Doyle said. Well never know. Her line-of-duty death was the fourth in the 46-year history of the department, and only the second time a county officer was slain maliciously, county officials said. The county has 446,000 residents, and Woodbridge is one of many bedroom communities popular with federal workers, the military and others who commute to Washington, 30 miles to the north. This department is revered. Its respected, said Corey Stewart, the Republican chairman of the countys board of supervisors. She was an example of the kind of person that the department hires and the quality of the men and women who work for the department. Hamiltons neighbors, too, were struggling to comprehend how a man who had ingratiated himself to the close-knit community could be accused of such crimes. The neighborhood of $500,000 houses with manicured lawns and two-car garages is about a 5-minute drive from the county office building. Charnita Allen, who lives down the street, said Hamiltons son was close with her own 10-year-old son and frequently played at their house. Speaking in a soft voice in her driveway Sunday morning, she said Hamilton was a nice guy. Its going to be tough getting over this one, she said. CORDILLERAS, Philippines Ive always thought this island nation was a bit out of step in this part of the world. Oh, the Filipinos get along just fine with their neighbors Taiwan, China, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia and Singapore. But they really are quite different from all of them in custom, creed and character. A better fit, I think, would be if these 7,000-plus islands were splashed across the South Pacific, the Mediterranean or even off the Pacific coasts of North, Central or South America. They might feel more at home there. (Actually, Filipinos feel at home anywhere as there are more of them living outside the country than in.) On this visit, I traveled to two Philippine provinces far from the usual tourist trails and beach resorts the Cordilleras mountain range at the northern tip of the island chain and the sprawling Mindanao region at the southern tip. They could have been on different planets. The Cordilleras area, a 12-hour drive from Manila over serpentine and bumpy roads, is one of two provinces throughout the Philippines that is landlocked by a series of mountains. (By contrast, Mindanao is surrounded by four seas.) But on those Cordilleras mountains, the Ifugao farmers of centuries past have constructed a series of rice terraces that follow the contours of the mountain like giant winding staircases leading to the sky. It creates a spectacular view, so much so that that UNESCO has added it to the World Heritage list. It was worth the drive, no? asked our driver, Cecile, beneath his Stetson cowboy hat. This is Gods country. Between his cowboy hat and the pure country music coming from his tapes, this also seemed like the Tennessee Smokies leading to Nashville. Country music is king in the Cordilleras. You hear it everywhere, nonstop. Life is slow and easy here, Cecile explained. We like our music the same way. Rap and rock n roll is for Manila. While the rice terraces are the showstopper in the Cordilleras, this region is literally a breath of fresh air from many other parts of the Philippines. Roaring fireplaces can be found in the simple, but comfortable, hotels and hostels, and residents bundle up in leather coats and tuques at early morning and after dark, although the temperature rarely dips below 50 degrees. The air is crisp and pure, crime is practically nonexistent, and views are magnificent around every turn. Few North Americans set foot here, the bulk of the tourists are Asians and Europeans who hike these rice-filled mountains and explore the many caves in the valleys. There are villages surrounded by rice paddies where Shamans are still revered as both spiritual healers and witch doctors. The Shamans can cure you or curse you, Cecile claimed. I saw one heal a mans paralyzed leg by rubbing leaves and oil on it. Another man, who was stealing from the village, had his head turned permanently in one direction by a Shaman. Other spiritual attractions along this mountain range are hanging coffins on some of the hills, small caves where mummified remains of the local ancestors can be found. The higher the coffin on the hill, the loftier the position the deceased had in his tribe. The tiny villages on the hillsides are also an attraction in themselves, the houses scattered every which way as though they were dropped from the sky. The homes were constructed before the roads, which now snake through the hamlets, weaving in and out to get to the other side. We stayed at the Banaue Hotel smack in the middle of 2,000-year-old rice terraces, and visited the nearby village and open market. At one point, we had to clear the tiny sidewalk to make way for a man parading his pet pig on a leash on the main street! Whens the last time you saw that in your town? He wasnt dressed in his Sunday finest, and the huge pig could also have used a little touch-up, but the man seemed as proud as an aristocrat walking his prize poodle on Fifth Avenue during the Easter parade. That was our final unscheduled surprise in the Cordilleras. Now we go back to the noise, the pollution and the traffic, Cecile said as he cranked on his never-ending country music tapes and began the long drive to Manila. We spent three nights in Manila before heading south to Mindanao. There was an international travel show taking place called the Asean Tourism Forum (ATF) that we attended along with show-connected festivals centered in the historic section of the city called Intramuros. Meanwhile, Cecile met another group of tourists from Belgium for transport to the Cordilleras (I hope they liked country music) while we flew to the sprawling city of Davao on the southeast coast of Mindanao. Like the Cordilleras, Mindanao is off the usual tourist trail, not because it is difficult to get to, but because many travel advisories recommend not going there. Terrorist groups have flared up from time to time on the western coast near Zamboanga city. As it turned out, Davao on the east coast could well have been one of the safest cities in the nation as the man-in-charge, Vice Mayor Rodrigo Duterte, operates more like a Wild West sheriff than a politician. To put it mildly, the colorful and controversial Duterte runs a no-nonsense, tight ship. For example, he routinely announces the names of suspected drug dealers, sex offenders and other violent criminals and gives them until sundown to get out of town. Those who ignore the warning often end up as victims of mysterious accidents like getting run over by a truck and charges are rarely, if ever, made. Right or wrong, Duterte has an almost guru-like following from his constituents, many of whom are encouraging him to run for the Philippine presidency. Actually, I felt quite safe in Davao as security was everywhere and highly visible. Armed police and camouflaged militia routinely patrol the city on foot, and guards inspect your bags and frisk you at all public places, including small convenience shops. While Davao is not your picture-postcard city, it has an exotic charm and represents typical Philippine life with prices often one-third those of major tourist centers like Cebu and Palawan. It is spread over 244,000 hectares, making it one of the largest cities in land area in the world. (To drive the city limits from north to south would take more than two hours.) A mere 30-minute drive from Davao is an exotic rainforest where there are giant eagles known as Haring Ibon. A full- grown eagle can be as large as 5 feet in height with a wing span of 7 feet. They have been known to swoop down and whisk away full-grown monkeys by clutching their shoulders. Nearby in the woods are plants that actually eat meat! Called pitcher plants, they are about the size and shape of a coffee cup and have a tarry substance in the base. When a tiny rodent or bird enters, it becomes stuck and entombed. Ironically, monkeys like to eat pitcher plants, with birds, rodents and anything else inside. And those giant eagles like to feast on the monkeys who ate the plant that ate the bird etc. Sort of like a revolving-door food chain. In the distance, serving as a backdrop for this magnificent rainforest, is the impressive Mount Apo, the grandfather of Philippine mountains at almost 3,000 meters (9,842 feet) high. Ancestral tribes still live on the mountain and carry on life today as their forefathers did centuries ago. They shy away from visitors, we were told. Maybe if I introduced them to country music ? Men of Napa, do you wish you had been a cowboy? Would you have enjoyed living on a ranch, herding cattle, sleeping under the stars during a cattle drive? Would you rather wear your cowboy boots to the office instead of those wingtips? But you dont dare. You probably daydream about havin a ranch some day. You could sit on the front porch and watch over your herd. Well, I know someone just like you. One of Napas retired judges was born too late. He always wears his cowboy hat and boots. Invite this man for dinner and the hat stays on all night long. Now, his Mama raised him right but this judge never got over wanting to be a cowboy. I am speaking, of course, about Judge Scott Snowden. Scott and my husband, Philip, were partners in a Napa law firm back in the 1970s. Scott took the call when Jerry Brown appointed Philip to the Municipal Court in 1977. Scott called me at home and told me to come to the office, Right now! As I walked into their offices at 1211 Division St., Scott greeted us with a big smile holding a bottle of sparkling wine. A few years later, Philip, Scott, and Wes Walker were the three judges on our Superior Court bench. They were a successful trio on the Napa courts and influenced the California judicial system. Even with years on the bench and living in the sophisticated community of St. Helena, Scott never got over wanting to be a cowboy. I think this is why he connected so strongly with the story of Sheriff Walt Longmire of Absaroka County, Wyoming. Sheriff Longmire is the creation of Craig Johnson, who wrote the Longmire books, the basis for the popular TV series. Actually, if the truth be known, I think Scott puts himself in Sheriff Longmires role while watching the show. He gets to escape from his real life role of mediating disputes in big civil lawsuits. As I understand the story, one day, Scott impulsively sent one of those, I admire your talent emails to Longmires author, Craig Johnson. To Scotts surprise, Craig answered. Soon they were frequent correspondents. When Scott learned that Johnson and his wife, Judy, were coming to Northern California on business, he invited them here. He offered them a place to stay in St. Helena and suggested Craig speak at the Napa City-County Library. Johnson agreed and plans were set. We have attended many programs at the library and saw this program scheduled. We suspected this might be a popular program so we arrived early. We were right. The place was jam-packed. The program had to be conducted in the middle of the library because the room where such programs were usually held was too small. We were greeted by Scott and his artist wife, Joann Ortega Snowden; we met the authors wife, Judy, and took seats in the back. The crowd kept growing and more chairs had to be set up. Craig Johnson was introduced and the fun began. He was dressed just like Scott in his Western clothes, boots and cowboy hat. I was not surprised. Even if Scott does not have a ranch, he and his brother, Randy, do have a Napa Valley vineyard. And they produce some pretty fancy wines. Craig was delightful, funny, friendly and so down to earth. The crowd hung on to every word and laughed at every comment. It was a very enjoyable evening. He started by telling us about his first Longmire book. The idea had been going through his mind for years. He had started it once but then put it in a drawer. He spent years doing projects on his ranch so he wouldnt have to work on it. But still, it was always in the back of his mind. While building his barn, doing the fences, adding on to his log cabin home he kept thinking about his story and adding little bits and pieces. I know this happens to writers. New thoughts are constantly moving in and out of their minds. If you Google his biography, you will learn that Craig grew up in West Virginia, graduated from college, was involved in plays and a little acting. He once delivered some horses to a ranch in Wyoming and liked the area. He was briefly a New York policeman but the pull of the West was always in his heart. Eventually, he returned to Wyoming and bought land near where he had delivered the horses. He ordered a log cabin home, put it together and soon he felt at home. Eventually, he finished his first Longmire book and then his second. Soon, he had written 12 novels about Sheriff Walt Longmire. The books became a popular TV series and can now be found on Netflix. We have watched and enjoyed them all. I found his talk fascinating because I have experienced many of the same things when I write. Of course, I am not of his caliber. He will probably join the great Western writers like Louie LAmour and Zane Grey. I write a column in the Napa Valley Register. Fame and wealth will never come my way but it doesnt matter. I am having fun, and I hope my readers are too. I have never taken writing classes or ever written more than letters and my mothers obituary until I started writing for the Register. When I write, I try to expand on everyday life and travel experiences. I did love hearing about Craigs flowing moments. I often have them too. Many things can break a flow, such as a phone call, a knock at the door or a call for lunch. I try to remember where I left off. Sometimes, you can start again. But often you cannot. The only thing Craig Johnson and I have in common is our Irish background. He did tell us that he sat at his mothers feet for years listening to her stories. He must have inherited her storytelling talent. The Johnson ranch is in a small town near a Cheyenne reservation. The local Native Americans are a major source of inspiration to Craig. Many of his stories include their lives, adventures, history, traditions and religion. When traveling, he often includes people he meets, places he visits and local stories as a base for his books, too. He enjoys visiting with the local sheriff in town to learn about old cases and crimes that happened years ago. His imagination then builds a story. Of course, all writers need to check facts, laws, places and times but once Craig gets an idea, the flow begins. I wont be surprised if Scott and Joann find themselves in one of his stories. Our city of Napa might be mentioned, Snowden Wine might appear in the Red Pony Bar or one of Joanns many paintings could appear on a wall in Longmires office. An impulsive email sent by a St. Helena city slicker can open doors. And now all of Napa knows that Judge Scott Snowden loves his cowboy hat and may secretly dream of being Sheriff Longmire. YOUNTVILLE To illustrate the gap between racial attitudes of today and those of half a century ago, Charles A. Black invited audience members onto the stage for an exercise in absurdity. Moving to the lip of the stage, he motioned for four people any four people to join him. Up a few steps came four men of different shapes and sizes, and three of them white. All you tall guys, you cant eat in restaurants. All those with gray hair, you have to use separate restrooms, Black quipped to the chuckles of his special guests and others in the audience. How stupid is that? Well, thats what we lived through. But are such attitudes so exaggerated? Not so much and so distant in the past, the veteran campaigner for racial equality argued Sunday afternoon during a joint lecture with his comrade-in-arms in the 1960s civil rights movement, Lonnie C. King Jr., at the Lincoln Theater. This assembly would have been illegal, he said while sweeping his arm across the audience, because you have black and white people sitting together. We had segregated ambulances, segregated hospitals, segregated everything and all based on the color of our skin. Fifty-six years after the two men helped launch boycotts and sit-ins to topple discrimination in Georgia and inspire similar activism throughout the segregated South King and Black shared their stories from the front lines during Marching for Human Rights: We Were There, a program marking Black History Month. KVET, the in-house television station of the Veterans Home of California, recorded the lecture and will broadcast it sometime next week, according to station director Jac Warren, a partner with King and Black in an Atlanta youth employment program during the 1970s. The program then will be made available to other California veterans homes and school districts, she said. Before a 65-person audience in Yountville, Black and King, who in 1960 helped launch the Student Nonviolent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) while at Atlantas Morehouse College, told of the struggles and victories as early members of the group. Their achievements in Atlanta included desegregating Richs department store after organizing a yearlong boycott; protests and negotiations that opened restaurants, movie theaters, parks and hospitals to blacks; and the registering of more than 20,000 African-American voters. By withholding their wallets from those who served blacks only in the back of the building or not at all, the Atlanta students helped show Georgians and, by inspiration, other Southern activists how the masses could topple even discrimination entrenched since Reconstruction, King recalled. We shared the power of the least of us to save our nickels, to not shop downtown, he said of the stand against Richs in 1960-61. A manifesto penned by SNCC spread its message of equality as surely as their deeds did. An Appeal for Human Rights, published by several local newspapers, The New York Times and other outlets, excoriated the lack of voting rights, educational and job opportunities, and segregation in public places in Atlanta as an affront to democracy and Christian charity. All those achievements required student activists to face down the distilled hostility of generations from owners of white-only businesses all the way up to the Georgia governor, Ernest Vandiver, who denounced the Appeal for Human Rights as un-American. This sounds as if it had been written in Moscow, if not Peking, he declared. The years of protest also included time up close with the Souths foremost civil rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who was arrested with Lonnie King (no relation) in October 1960 during a sit-in at the Richs store. A 1962 course King taught at Morehouse immersed Charles Black in the philosophies, from Plato to Gandhi, underpinning nonviolent protest even though Black admitted his mentors commitment to one man, one vote clashed his own acceptance of the Platonic philosopher-king ideal. If Dr. King had been alive to see recent events, he might have agreed with me and Plato we shouldnt have stupid people in charge, he said dryly. Audience members questions soon turned the topic toward this years tumultuous presidential campaign, above all the specter of Donald Trump winning the Republican nomination amid a trail of harsh anti-Mexican invective and reluctance to disavow support from the Ku Klux Klan and former leader David Duke. Despite civil rights legislation, an expanded minority presence in mass media and a two-term black president, the longtime activists warned against those who would undo more than 50 years of hard-won gains and declared voting and activism even more crucial now than ever. We, and I include myself, put civil rights on cruise control, said King. But while we were doing that on a highway where at the end theres freedom and justice and equality, in another car were the Thurmonds, the Nixons, the Reagans trying to undo everything we did in the 60s. And they were putting their car into overdrive. America is sitting on a powder keg, where certain right-wing people are doing things outside of the American Dream, he continued. Unfortunately, itll be a very bad situation if people of good will dont say to people of ill will, Stop. Last week, with her birthday approaching, Jazmine Corpus was planning a weekend of celebrations appropriate to her age. Or rather, both of her ages. The American Canyon tax preparer, wife and mother of four came into the world 36 years ago Monday and yet her birthday is appearing on the calendar for just the ninth time. Well into adulthood by one measure and still a kid by another, Corpus genially looked forward to indulging both of her ages in the days before her birthday on Feb. 29, which occurs only once every four years. On Friday Im having a big party in Suisun City and inviting almost everybody on my Facebook page 21 and up, of course, she said. And then on Sunday Ill be at Disney on Ice (at Oracle Arena in Oakland) Frozen, actually because Ill be 9 and we want to do something a 9-year-old would do! While many leapers people born on Feb. 29 in leap years can share stories of schoolyard jibes, paperwork snafus and beaten-to-death jokes about eternal youth, the arrival of their birthdays can become appreciated even more for being long-awaited. Were already a family that likes to celebrate every occasion; in (non-leap) years I actually have cake on both days, Feb. 28 and March 1, Corpus said with a hearty laugh. Then, when I have an actual birthday, we have a really big party. The source of the quirky birthday which the Honor Society of Leap Year Babies estimates about 5 million humans share is the device that has kept the Western calendar aligned with the Earths orbit around the sun for more than 2,000 years. Every fourth year at the end of February, calendar makers extend the month from 28 to 29 days, to account for the fact that Earth takes nearly six hours more than 365 days to circle the sun. Since 1582, an extra correction has eliminated leap days from years that close a century, except for those evenly divisible by 400; February 2000 included a 29th day, but the same month in 2100 will not. For Marian Moffett, who is about to turn 48 or 12 according to taste a sturdy sense of humor helps in embracing her leap-year birthday, especially while surrounded by children who she said often give her rock-star status at Browns Valley Elementary School, where she teaches kindergarten. Every year I talk about it somehow, said Moffett, who has taught in Napa public schools for 17 years. Even kids I dont even have in my class will come up and talk to me about it; it starts with them saying, Is it true youre only 11? Thats what starts the big talk. And of course I always agree! Dont tell me Im in my 40s; I have kids constantly reminding me of my aging. But the kids are very adorable! Even in middle age, Moffett fully expected some friend to send her a tongue-in-cheek, age-defying gag present as in leap years past. Ive gotten a lot of young-girl gifts like dolls; when I was 8 (or 32) people gave me stuffed animals, she recalled. I wonder if Ill get tweener gifts now that Im 12. Will I get Justin Bieber stuff? I dont know. A younger Napa-raised leapling, Lena Music, already has heard a lifetimes worth of puns in her 20 years. I still get it from people; its kind of a joke that I wont be able to drive until Im 64, or I wont be able to drink until well, never. But it was never meant in a mean way, said Music, who attends Northeastern University in Boston and will see her birth date on the calendar for the fifth time. It just takes too long to explain, and Id rather discuss things that are more interesting, she added. But sometimes I do use it as an icebreaker, as my fun fact about myself, like when Im playing Two Truths and a Lie. Like Music, Elan Fayard, while not running away from her unorthodox birth date, said she and her loved ones try to avoid making a fuss of the fact. A true Feb. 29 birthday was never really super different, said Fayard, proprietor of Azur Wines in Coombsville. Mom always tried to make (the celebration) something good every year so we didnt feel like we were missing something. Honestly, what made it different wasnt necessarily being born on a leap day, but the fact of being an identical twin, she said of herself and her sister Desarae Ryan, who were born 36 years ago Monday. Fayards weekend plans included time with friends on the Oregon coast in her home state, but nothing that would give away the fact that this birthday would be, technically, only her ninth. Ill be enjoying life without too much responsibility, she said. I own a wine label and we own a winery, so Im not going crazy. I want a normal, calm and relaxing weekend. As Nancy Glorio neared her 60th birthday or her 15th the St. Helena hair salon owner looked back at the full range of experiences only leapers know firsthand: schoolroom ribbing, doctors fighting the computer to enter her true birth date after she gave birth, the kids picture books she received on turning 6 (or rather, 24). My mom always felt bad for me because I didnt have an official birthday and she worried that I would get teased, which I did, she remembered. But when I became older and more mature, I realized it was all in fun. Though she readily claims Feb. 28 as her de facto birthday in other years, Glorio and her loved ones were not stinting on celebrations in a year when her birth date is actually on the calendar a family party a week before, then a second party with friends Friday night before dinner with her children on the 29th. For me its like I dont really age but every four years I dont really count them, she quipped. No official records exist on the number of people born on Feb. 29, but the Honor Society of Leap Year Babies an online circle founded in the 1990s has estimated that about 200,000 Americans, and 5 million people worldwide, must wait for their birthday every four years. The societys work sometimes leans toward practical matters such as persuading companies to re-code websites to allow Feb. 29 as a valid birthday, according to co-founder Raenell Dawn. But its most constant purpose, she added, is to make leapers feel less alone and more special, by enabling them to share the unique experiences of their tribe. We can share stories; we can relate, she said Thursday by telephone from her home in Keizer, Oregon. Were the only ones to know what its like to get teased for being 2 when youre 8. A lot of kids got totally celebrated (in leap years), but some people said their birthdays were totally ignored in the off-years, which is pretty sad. As the Honor Society has grown from about 100 members two decades ago to 11,000, Dawn said the confidence of its members has increased as well. Even new mothers who in years past might have allowed doctors to back- or front-date their babies birth date now usually embrace Feb. 29 as the starting point in their childrens lives, she said. Its not just our birthday but everyones extra day, said Dawn. So do something good with it. A trial date has been set for September in a lawsuit in which the plaintiff alleges that she didnt receive a job based on knowledge of her pregnancy. Ada Abed, studying in Carrington Colleges dental assistant certificate program, began an externship at Western Dental & Orthodontics on Trancas Street in Napa last May. Abeds adviser informed her that the 180-hour, unpaid externship was likely to lead to a job since the office had an opening for a dental assistant, according to the suit. The offices district manager also confirmed this information with the adviser, saying that if Abeds externship was successful, she would be hired, the suit alleges. Abed was interested in the position as well as working in Napa. On her first day as an extern, the managing dentist told the plaintiff to think of her externship as a four to six week working interview for a full-time dental assistant position, according to the suit. During the course of her externship, Abed performed her duties in an exemplary manner receiving positive reviews and feedback. But on May 29, while at work, the plaintiff overheard a conversation between a dental assistant and the floor supervisor, Sabrina Strickling. According to the suit, Strickling asked the dental assistant if she knew that Abed was pregnant. What are you talking about? said the assistant. Strickling allegedly responded by telling her that another employee had looked through Abeds handbag, which she had left in the lunch room, and found prenatal vitamins. Strickling asked the assistant again if she knew whether Abed was pregnant and the assistant denied any knowledge, the suit alleges. A week later Strickling asked to speak to Abed in her office. Strickling stated that Western Napa no longer had an open dental assistant position, but told the plaintiff there might be an opening in Vacaville, a location 30 miles from Napa and a commute twice as long, the suit alleges. Abed believed that she was being passed up for the position because Strickling had learned of her pregnancy. She then informed her career services adviser and the clinical coordinator at Carrington College of the incident. On her evaluation, the coordinator noted: Student said site doesnt want to hire her because of her pregnancy. I told Ada not to worry about getting hired or not until extern is completed. On the last day of Adebs externship, her co-workers threw her a farewell party and gave her cards wishing her luck on her pregnancy, according to the suit. Adeb had not announced her pregnancy and wasnt even showing yet. The sentiment surprised her, the suit asserts. Strickling told her to check back with us after youve had your baby and maybe there will be a position open for you, according to the suit. Abed had received above average in all categories on her final evaluation and had also performed above average on prior evaluations. After she left Western Dental, Abed noticed job postings online for a dental assistant position at the Napa location and believes that the extern who followed her was hired for the position, according to the suit. Abed filed a complaint with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing alleging that the business had discriminated against her and denied her employment based on her pregnancy/medical condition. She was issued a right-to-sue letter on July 14. Abeds attorney, Mary Patricia Hough of the Law Offices of Moss & Hough out of San Francisco, filed the complaint in Napa Superior Court on Sept. 10, 2015. She is suing for damages incurred due to the alleged discrimination and invasion of privacy. Western Dental Services Inc., represented by Gregory G. Iskander of Littler Mendelson in Walnut Creek, denied all the allegations against the company in a filing on Nov. 2. In their response, the defendants assert that the plaintiffs claims are barred due to failure to take advantage of internal remedies provided by her employer, failure to exhaust administrative remedies, and failure to mitigate damages. Plaintiff is guilty of unclean hands and violated her obligations as an employee, according to the response. In their response, the defendants also call the complaint frivolous. Attorneys for Western Dental did not return calls for comment last week. Since the alleged incident, Abed, 20, accepted a part-time position, had her baby and returned to work. Shes not a slacker, Hough said on Thursday. My client is a very sharp, smart young lady and didnt deserve this to happen to her, she added. I believe that everything that is in the complaint is what well be able to prove, Hough said. You may be surprised to learn that Russell Johnson, Tina Louise and Dawn Wells weren't involved in the filming of the pilot episode of "Gilligan's Island" in Hawaii. The original seven castaways of the ill-fated S.S. Minnow included Gilligan, the Skipper, tycoon couple the Howells, two secretaries and a high school science teacher, who was nicknamed the professor. The creator, Sherwood Schwartz, had a hard time selling the idea to CBS executives. They were concerned that the viewers wouldn't understand why these seven people were stranded on an uncharted island each week. They battled back and forth on the subject. Then, Schwartz came up with a calypso theme song that explained the reason why these seven castaways were stuck there and solved the issue. (Calypso music was very popular in 1963.) Schwartz wanted Jerry Van Dyke (Dick's brother) in the role as Gilligan, but Van Dyke's agent persuaded him not to take the part, because it wasn't going to sell. Instead, he took a role in a TV flop "My Mother the Car" and was greatly disappointed with its result. In the autumn 1963, Bob Denver had just ended his role of the beatnik Maynard G. Krebs on "The Many Loves of Dobie Gillis" (1959 to 1963). He was ready and able to take on the role of Gilligan. However, casting the part of the Skipper wasn't easy. The actor playing the part of the Skipper would be rough on Gilligan, but needed to be loved by the audience. They were suppose to be like the Laurel and Hardy routine of the silver screen. Several actors tried out, but weren't the right type. For example, Carroll O'Connor, who played Archie Bunker on "All in the Family," tried out for the part, but didn't get it. Finally, Alan Hale Jr. received the part. His father starred as a sidekicks to Errol Flynn in numerous films. Schwartz could only envision his longtime friend Jim Backus in the role of Thurston Howell III. Backus was the master of voice imitations. You may remember him as bumbling nearsighted cartoon figure Mr. Magoo. Working with the writer before, Jim Backus accepted the role without even reading the script. In taking the role of Mrs. Howell, Natalie Schafer was only interested in the free trip to Hawaii. She didn't believe the pilot would be picked up by the CBS network. Nevertheless, she did request funny comeback lines to Backus' jokes. She knew he was a brilliant comedian. John Gabriel played the rugged high school science teacher. The two secretaries also joined the seven castaways. The first secretary, Ginger Grant, had a rough exterior and made wisecracks. She was played by Kit Smythe. And, Nancy McCarthy played the ditsy blonde Bunny. After reviewing the pilot episode, Schwartz realized that he needed to make the two single women characters different from one another. The pilot episode didn't test well with screening audiences. Schwartz had the theme song for the for the program rewritten. In his garage he actually came up with the lyrics for the song while having a dinner party. Then, CBS producers informed him that John Gabriel as the science teacher was way too immature and not believable in the role. Rewriting the parts he had the characters changed to an actual university professor, movie star Ginger Grant, and Kansas farm girl Mary Ann Sumner. These new screen parts were recast. However, Schwartz's first agent didn't see the potential of the project, so he went with a different agent, who got "Gilligan's Island" put on the fall schedule of 1964. The opening credits of the new show were filmed shortly after President John F. Kennedy's assassination when the flag was at half-staff. Natalie Schafer (Mrs. Howell) was 64 years old when the sitcom premiered. She was thirteen years her senior to her television husband Jim Backus. The "Ballad of Gilligan's Isle" was performed by the folk music group The Wellingtons. Before the second season began, Bob Denver petitioned the producers to add the names of the professor and Mary Ann to the introduction song and got it approved. Their names weren't in the original song. Later, The Wellingtons appeared as the rock group The Mosquitoes in a second season episode titled, Don't Bug the Mosquitoes. In 1992, the unaired pilot for "Gilligan's Island" was finally shown on television. It had been over 25 years since the series' cancellation. Carl G. White Napa You are most welcome to come along. For more information, see When & Where We Meet , or Contact Us Press release: Radio Disney Country, a modern, country music-focused destination for families, will launch on WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4 on the Radio Disney App. The broadcast will originate live from the red carpet of the 49th Annual Country Music Association (CMA) Awards airing on ABC (8:00-11:00 p.m. PT/ET), with interviews from some of todays biggest country music artists. Radio Disney Countrys inaugural broadcast will be hosted by its new on-air personality Betsy Spina (Sirius XMs The Highway). Radio Disney Country will feature up and coming young artists and todays biggest country hits including Florida Georgia Line, Hunter Hayes, Maddie & Tae, The Band Perry, Kelsea Ballerini, Dan + Shay, RaeLynn and more. With already over 6 million downloads on the Radio Disney App, Radio Disney Country content within the app will also include music videos, in-studio interviews and performances. Japan and U.S. will hold joint military exercises France withdraws from Energy Charter Treaty CNN: White House is in talks with Elon Musk to create satellite Internet service Starlink in Iran Baku outraged by Iran's statements and frightened by IRGC military exercises Who are main beneficiaries of 'Zangezur' corridor?: Another anonymous article by 'Haykakan Zhamanak' newspaper Ankara decides to stand up for Riyadh amid deteriorating relations between Saudi Arabia and U.S. French Foreign Minister considers it vital to keep lines of communication with Russia open Pentagon refuses to give details of conversation between Austin and Shoigu Mother See of Holy Etchmiadzin: Head of Caucasus Muslims Department again made slanderous and false statements Erdogan denies using chemical weapons against Kurds and threatens those who dare to talk about it Saudi Arabia and China will strengthen their ties in energy sector Governor of Gegharkunik province receives representatives of OSCE fact-finding mission Penny Mordaunt runs for Prime Minister of Great Britain Sweden expects ratification of NATO membership application by Hungary and Turkey to be completed soon European Union will allocate 1.5 billion euros per month to Kiev in 2023 An Israeli-built flight school opened in Greece Russian Railways is negotiating with Azerbaijan and Iran to launch the Rasht-Astara route Overchuk: Construction of road through Meghri, whose sovereignty is not in question, depends on Armenia's position Armenian Defense Minister's working visit to India is over Hungary will not agree to limit prices for imported gas Iranian Foreign Minister: Iran considers Armenia one of most important transit countries Naribekyan participates in meeting of secretaries general of PACE parliaments Delegation from United Arab Emirates visits Armenia at invitation of head of MONKS: Two agreements signed Dollar, euro drop in Armenia Iran consul general in Armenias Kapan: We do not accept any change of borders Baza: Mobile military registration and enlistment offices will be removed on Russian-Georgian border Iranian Consul: Countries of region do not need presence of foreign armed forces Armenia FM: Iran consulate general in Kapan will be important for regional security Iranian Consul General advises Kapan residents not to worry anymore: Iran is here for Armenian people FM reaffirms Armenia plan to open consulate general in Irans Tabriz Turkey to open consulate in occupied Armenian Shushi city of Artsakh Turkish Ministry of Finance: Ankara can buy Russian oil without Western funding Armenia Security Council chief briefs European Parliament rapporteur on recent Azerbaijan military aggression British bookmakers name favorite for post of prime minister Erdogan: Armenia-Azerbaijan relations progress will contribute to Armenia-Turkey relations normalization Iranian Consulate General opens in Kapan Erdogan: Turkey is looking for alternative to American F-16 fighters Iran consul general: We are here for Armenian people Turkey FM slams OSCE decision to send needs assessment mission to Armenia Peskov reacts to Erdogan's words about Putin's softening on Ukraine negotiations European Parliament rapporteur on Armenia visits Armenian Genocide Memorial in Yerevan European Parliament rapporteur on Armenia to legislature speaker: Attack was from Azerbaijan, naturally Armenia President to EEU PMs: We will manage to take another confident step by respecting mutual interests EUSR Toivo Klaars exclusive interview with NEWS.am on EU Monitoring mission,Nagorno Karabakh future and violence videos Explosions rock Ukraines Kharkiv, Zaporizhzhia President meets with newly formed Artsakh Public Council members Armenia PM: We need understanding in price horizon, at least in medium term Lawyer: 20 of fallen solders parents detained from Yerevan military pantheon are recognized as injured party PM: Armenia trade with other EEU countries increased by 74% France region to provide 300,000 to Armenias Syunik Province affected by Azerbaijan military aggression Eurasian Intergovernmental Council extended meeting underway in Yerevan MOD: Armenia did not fire at Azerbaijan positions, vehicle MPs in Strasbourg, present threatening dangers: Armenia has powerful support in European Parliament Years first snow falls in Armenias Shirak Province World oil prices on the rise Newspaper: Russia dismisses Armenia PM's news on Karabakh Russia PM in Yerevan, to discuss with EEU colleagues single oil, natural gas markets formation Newspaper: Why is Iran in hurry to open consulate in Armenias Syunik Province? France, Spain, Portugal agree to build Barcelona-Marseille natural gas pipeline Admiral: U.S. should now prepare for Chinese 'invasion' of Taiwan Harutyunyan: I cannot imagine Artsakh's future without presence of Russia Harutyunyan: Without questioning path of our independence, we must meet with Baku Prime Minister of Finland does not think that Hungary and Turkey will block country's application for NATO membership Iranian FM: U.S. made hasty statements in connection with protests Former Turkish Prime Minister Binali Yildirim involved in car accident in Karabakh Arayik Harutyunyan: Artsakh people's right to self-determination is non-negotiable Iranian MFA calls it important to form platform with Armenia and India on North-South corridor Details of EU monitoring mission in Armenia are known Foreign Ministry: It seems Ankara is more interested in opening corridor through Armenia than Azerbaijan Mirzoyan: Unexpected third countries support Azerbaijani interpretation of road to Nakhchivan Foreign Ministry: Armenia, Iran and Bulgaria initial agreement on creation of Persian Gulf-Black Sea corridor Israeli Defense Minister to visit Ankara Armenian Foreign Minister names main obstacle to solving problems with Azerbaijan Erdogan once again raises issue of so-called 'Zangezur corridor' Armenian and Iranian FMs to open Iranian Consulate General in Syunik province tomorrow Abdollahian: Aliyev assured that he does not want border changes, Iran will prevent implementation of such idea Iranian Foreign Minister in Yerevan supports '3+3' platform Iranian Foreign Minister recalls Tehran's 'red lines' in regional issues Mirzoyan: We highly appreciate Iran's principled position regarding territorial integrity of Armenia UK imposes sanctions against Iran for alleged delivery of drones to Russia Yerevan hosts meeting of Eurasian Intergovernmental Council in narrow composition Armenian and Iranian Foreign Ministers meet in Yerevan in extended format Charles Michel: EU energy deal possible, but difficult Erdogan says Baku should demand 'compensation' from Yerevan Pashinyan: EEU mechanisms are of great help, trade turnover between Armenia and Belarus has doubled Yair Lapid: Russia-Iran relations are serious problem for Ukraine, Europe, and whole world Amir-Abdollahian: Iran is against presence of foreigners in this region, both in Azerbaijan and Armenia Pashinyan at EAEU meeting: Fundamental principles of world economic system in question Iranian Foreign Minister's official visit to Yerevan begins Macron says Germany should not isolate itself in Europe EU begins deployment of mission on Armenia-Azerbaijan border Trump's son made fun of Zelenskyy's ability to ask West for money EU to provide emergency aid for Armenia residents affected by recent Azerbaijan military aggression Azerbaijan army units fire at Armenia positions Mikhail Mishustin arrives in Yerevan EU approves new sanctions against Iran over alleged drone deliveries to Russia Eurasian Intergovernmental Council meeting begins in Yerevan Baku calls OSCE mission to assess situation on Armenian-Azerbaijani border 'private visit' On fourth day of IRGC military exercises on border with Azerbaijan, artillery destroys planned targets Liz Truss quits as UK Prime Minister According to the Geneva Conventions, civilians may under no circumstances be the object of attack and must be protected. Armenian FM Edward Nalbandian stated the aforementioned at the High Level Segment of the 31st Session of the UN Human Rights Council. In his address, Nalbandian mentioned the following: Mr. President, Excellences, Ladies and Gentlemen, Ten years of successful experience of the Council is by itself an achievement but it is also a major responsibility. The experiences of recent years prove that human rights, peace and security are interrelated. Today the world is facing unprecedented threats and challenges. We are facing the rise of hatred, xenophobia and racial discrimination, facing situations, where the right to life is under serious threat, as war and other acts of mass violence continue to take the lives of thousands of innocent human beings around the world. Armenia condemns the atrocities, the crimes against humanity perpetrated in the Middle East, by Daesh", Al-Nusra and other terrorist groups, which constitute a threat to the existence of religious and ethnic minorities in the region, including the Armenians who have been for centuries a genuine component of the cultural diversity of the Middle East. About 20.000 refugees sought protection in Armenia due to the conflict, on per capita basis making our country as the third largest recipient of Syrian refugees in Europe. We welcome the initiative to convene high-level meeting on global responsibility sharing through pathways for admission of Syrian refugees which will take place at the end of March, here in Geneva. During its existence, the Human Rights Council has played a key role in international efforts aimed at genocide prevention. There is a growing consensus in the international community that prevention will be effective if it is accompanied by the fight against impunity, against the denigration and denial of the committed genocides. Armenia continuously works on the concept of genocide prevention, and regularly presents to the Human Rights Council appropriate resolutions. In March last year the Human Rights Council, upon the initiative of Armenia, unanimously adopted a resolution on the Prevention of Genocide. I would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation to all countries who cosponsored and supported this resolution. In follow up to this initiative Armenia continued its efforts within the UN General Assembly by introducing a resolution on designating the 9th of December as International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the International Covenants on Human Rights. The first article of these Covenants proclaims: All peoples have the right of self-determination. By virtue of that right they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development. It is well known that the UN Charter underlines the respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples as a purpose of this organization. This right is among the basic principles presented by the international mediators for the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Armenia fully shares this approach because, without free and full exercise of this right, a whole range of human rights are unattainable and lasting peace endangered. We do agree with the view, expressed in the UN, that self-determination is an expression of democracy, and its implementation is essential to the establishment of a peaceful international order. According to the Geneva Conventions civilians may under no circumstances be the object of attack and must be protected. Armenia strongly condemns the continued attacks of Azerbaijani military forces against civilians and civilian objects along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border and the line of contact with Nagorno-Karabakh. It is yet another gross violation of the international humanitarian law by Baku. It requires immediate reaction from the international organizations. Mr. President, I would like to add a few words about Armenias human rights commitments and new developments within human rights agenda. Armenia continues its efforts aimed at consolidating democratic institutions, strengthening the rule of law, national mechanisms for the protection and promotion of human rights and sustains strong partnership with the international organizations. We actively work with all UN human rights mechanisms, including special procedures and treaty bodies. Constitutional reform in Armenia that the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe characterized as of extremely high quality and in line with international standards, was approved by the nation-wide referendum last December. It is another important step also aimed at advancing many of the mentioned goals. In 2015, Armenia passed through the second cycle of the Universal Periodic Review. In November last year, a government-civil society dialogue was held, during which the process of implementation of the UPR recommendations was discussed. The government of Armenia is planning to submit a mid-term progress report which will be continuation of the best practices of work within the UPR process and gives us more opportunities to assess the current situation and rightly planning further actions. The successful implementation of recommendations stemming from the UPR and other UN human rights mechanisms will further strengthen Armenias human rights records and strengthen the rule of law and democracy. Thank you. The conversation began on a humble note that brought an appreciative chuckle from the audience. When Emory University President James Wagner sat down with Rose Library Director Rosemary Magee for a Creativity Conversation on Wednesday, Feb. 24, he urged her to tell the story of how they agreed to talk. It goes something like this. When Magee asked the president to join her, he responded, "I normally respect your judgment, but me, creativity " Magee persisted, and rightly so. As she notes, "When I first approached the president, he was thinking of creativity more in the arena of arts and literature." Magee encouraged him to think more broadly, with the result that Wagner perhaps to his own surprise more than ours has a rightful claim to being deeply creative. In Magee's words, "It doesn't take too long to see the fascinating ways in which his mind wanders." And so, as the conversation ensued, if Wagner felt a little intimidated being introduced by Theater Emory's Leslie Taylor or spotting poet Kevin Young in the audience, he quickly found his footing. He began by considering the connection between creativity and wonder, asking, "How do we communicate when words aren't enough?" Magee, who has worked with the president for years, observes that "wonder brings him to puzzling things, and that becomes a rich space, involving everything from how cars are put together to organizational puzzles, like Emory. And then there are the galaxies." On his own time, one site of wonder for Wagner is deep space. He is a talented astrophotographer and, unlike that long-ago pioneer Louis Daguerre who in 1839 just wanted to get the first shot of the moon the president's interest is "in things way out in space, not obvious to the eye." Among those things are nebulae. Named after the Latin word for "cloud," nebulae have a prosaic side, being massive clouds of dust, hydrogen and helium, and plasma. Yet they have a wondrous side too, being "stellar nurseries" in other words, the birthplace of stars. But, as Wagner talked about these bodies, he cautioned against ever fully trusting what one is seeing, for nebulae also are the graveyards of collapsed stars. Add to this complexity the sheer, stupefying distance between stars, such that science dispenses with puny earthly miles and instead uses light years the six trillion miles that a beam of light travels in one year. Proxima Centauri, for example, Earth's nearest star, is 24,000,000,000,000 miles away but only four light years. As the president talked about space, the audience was treated to aspects of his mind that he holds in impressive balance: the awe that flows over into a spiritual dimension and great command of the facts associated with the history of science. Comfort with discomfort "The immensity of space," Wagner said, "means that we can't know what is happening in our universe. As an example, many stars that we are looking at now have exploded and already gone away." He continued, "This is what fascinates me about looking up. It gives me a sense of what I cannot know. In that sense, it is very humbling." He went on to invoke Heisenberg's Uncertainty Principle. As he explained, "You can either know where an electron is or know its velocity, but you can't know both, which tells us that there is hard evidence in the world, but you can't always have it." The lesson of the stars is that we "should be skeptical of our very human tendency to fill in the blanks." One reason for being so is that we often fill in those blanks with biases. Much better, Wagner advised, is to resist the drive for certainty, though he acknowledged that it is hard to do and he struggles with it. Take dark matter, which may account for 80 percent of the universe yet is knowable only by its gravitational effects. That is a perfect example of why, as Magee states, "the president is open to the 'somethingness' of nothingness." In his remarks, he pointed out that the origin of the word "planet" ties to the notion of wandering. Magee sees a natural coextension between the wonder Wagner has for the universe and the wonder that he brings to his work at the University. Both realms have encouraged in him pursuit of knowledge, scholarship and abiding curiosity. "All these things come together in his life and work," Magee notes. "That is why we appreciated hearing from him at such a personal and deep level." Artisan after all Returning to terra firma from deep space, the president talked about his forays into metalworking; in the process, he revealed a knowledge of metals' properties not unlike that of a painter with regard to pigments. With eyes closed, Wagner said, he would be able to differentiate metals based on how quickly they transferred heat from his fingers. He also builds clocks and, clearly playing to the crowd, drew laughs when he vowed that he was working on a clock that would be paired with a bicycle. Cars, as many in the audience already knew, are a huge interest, even avocation, of this president. His 1920 Model T, of course, has been captured in a number of campus shots over the years as Wagner has chauffeured students, and even Dooley, to campus events. His latest car chapter involved buying a 1950 MG from a staff member in Campus Services. It arrived in hundreds of pieces and took six years to complete. Wagner wasn't quite ready to call restoration work creative, though many listeners, including Magee, differed. He does the work, he says, because he loves "discovering the ingenuity of the engineers." His musings about cars also reveal an appreciation of history, for the president was fully versed in both cars' past the Model T's use in bouncing down horse paths, while the MG wound along narrow British back roads. He assured the audience that he never takes the MG out on Atlanta's highways, where it could not compete. That led him to consider the cruising speed of things without wheels, such as universities. Although faculty and students, especially at Emory, are speeding objects to be reckoned with, universities as an institution are "being tugged along" in part because they aren't "all that good about describing the value of what they do." Wagner urged that, "to nurture creativity, we have to resist defining the idea of a university narrowly," one example of which would be resisting those who call upon higher education to define its primary mission as being to find jobs for graduates. In his view, we have to find better ways to describe our value. As the conversation turned for home, Wagner reflected on his own identity both as an engineer and outgoing university president. Engineers often are characterized as problem solvers, and although that association is undoubtedly well meaning, "To be only a problem solver is to diminish what it means to be human," he said. He recognizes as well, he said, that personal friendships necessarily have taken a backseat to professional ones in the past 13 years and that now he and his wife, Debbie, have resolved that key words in their future will be "friends and family." Magee sees all that in his future and still more, saying, "He is a natural-born teacher, and that spark will always glow. He observes and knows with uncommon precision, yet he understands that much is unfathomable. He acknowledges the limits to knowing at the same time as he commits to doing all that he personally can, and all that Emory can, to know. "Without a doubt," she concluded, "he has some great essays yet to write on these and other meaningful topics." The Wagners leave Emory in August for a new home they built in Hilton Head, South Carolina. The president has as a first order of, if you will, leisure-time business getting to know the sky there, which will be different. "In Atlanta," Wagner said, "the sky has a red glow. There, it is more black. At the new house, the naked eye sees the Milky Way." For the Emory community, which for so long has counted on this president's energy and optimism, it will not seem out of the ordinary to learn that, once he leaves here, he still will be looking up. NEW DELHI: Government has asked Google to select a telecom operator as partner for testing the balloon-based Internet technology, Loon Project, in the country. "Google wants to test the Loon Project in expensive and scarce spectrum bands. It has been asked to partner with any telecom operator that can meet its requirement and then approach the government for testing Loon," an official source told PTI. The official said that if Google wishes to conduct a test with BSNL, it can carry out the experiment in the spectrum held by the state-owned company. "This approach should resolve the spectrum band sought by Google as well as security, to some extent," the official added. An e-mail sent to Google went unanswered. In India, Google has approached the government to set up the Loon project that has the potential to replace mobile towers as it can directly transmit signal on 4G mobile phones. The Telecom Ministry has formed a panel under IT secretary and asked BSNL to look at providing necessary support for the experiment. Meetings in this regard were held in October-November. The project hit a roadblock after Google sought to conduct test in 700 Mhz or 800 Mhz band instead of 2500Mhz band that BSNL holds. The 700 Mhz band is the most expensive and efficient spectrum for telecom services and is yet to be allocated to any service provider. Telecom regulator Trai has suggested including this spectrum in upcoming auction at a minimum price of Rs 11,485 crore per Mhz and a company will require to buy a minimum of 5 Mhz. Google, under its Project Loon, is using big balloons floating at a height of 20 km above the earth surface for transmission of Internet services. It has already tested this technology in New Zealand, California (the US) and Brazil. As per Google, each balloon can provide connectivity to a ground area of about 40 km in diameter using a wireless communication technology called LTE, or 4G. Google uses solar panel and wind to power electronic equipment in the balloon throughout the day. Read Also: Virtual Reality May Help Fight Obesity Facebook Launches Canvas To Bring Life Into Mobile Ads Regional Energy Forum set for March 11 by Tim Crosby CARBONDALE, Ill. The future of energy in Southern Illinois is the topic of the next Regional Energy Forum at Southern Illinois University Carbondale. The forums, which began last fall, are sponsored by the Advanced Coal and Energy Research Center and are designed to bring together interested parties to explore issues and solutions for the future. Organizers also hope the forums provide inspiration and resources to create energy initiatives and jobs in the region. The next forum is set for 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Friday, March 11, in Morris Librarys first floor rotunda and John C. Guyon Auditorium, and is titled Campus and Community Energy: Making Plans for the Future. Panelists will discuss potential growth in certain sectors of the energy industry, including renewable energy and improvements in efficiency. They also will discuss possible new, long-term areas of interest, including waste-to-energy and biomass technologies. Craig Pals, vice president and co-founder of Tick Tock Energy Inc. will discuss renewable energy, while James Mathias, associate professor of mechanical engineering and energy processes, will discuss efficiency technologies. Brent Ritzel, director and co-owner of Equitech International LLC, will discuss waste-to-energy technologies and Ira Altman, chair of the Department of Agribusiness Economics, will talk about biomass energy technologies. The event is free and open to the public. Go here for more information and to register. ACERC organizers aim to develop a regional resource center to help meet the challenges of the energy industry. To do so, they hope to determine the basic skills and knowledge that all employees should have, and develop areas of study and career tracks for students in community college or a university. They also hope to identify job placement channels based on feedback. Follow ACERC at @SIUEnergy. Trustees address a range of issues During its recent meeting, the Stanford Board of Trustees endorsed the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, set tuition, approved construction projects, discussed investment responsibility and the Year of Learning, and welcomed former trustees back to campus with a program in the arts district. At its Feb. 22-23 meeting, the Stanford University Board of Trustees set tuition for the 2016-17 academic year, approved construction projects, heard presentations from university leaders and visited the Anderson Collection at Stanford University. After the two-day meeting, Stanford announced the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program, a graduate-level scholarship to prepare a new generation of global leaders with the skills to address the increasingly complex challenges facing the world. L.A. Cicero Steven Denning, chair of the university's Board of Trustees The program is named for alumnus Philip H. Knight, MBA '62, philanthropist, American businessman and co-founder of Nike Inc., who is contributing $400 million, and Stanford's outgoing 10th president, John L. Hennessy. The program builds on Stanford's preeminent position in higher education, with seven globally ranked multidisciplinary graduate schools that foster service, collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship. Steven A. Denning, chair of the Board of Trustees, said the board unanimously endorsed the Knight-Hennessy Scholarship and is excited about its potential. "Stanford instills in its students an emphasis on interdisciplinary education, innovation, creative problem solving and entrepreneurial thinking," Denning said. "Knight-Hennessy Scholars will benefit from that embedded culture, and in turn, they will enrich the Stanford community and, ultimately, the world." Construction projects Trustees approved the design of a new research center to house Stanford Chemistry, Engineering & Medicine for Human Health (ChEM-H) and the Stanford Neurosciences Institute. The research center will be located in the area bounded by Campus Drive West, Via Ortega, Via Palou and Panama Street, on the site of the recently demolished Cardinal Cogeneration Plant. The project is expected to return to trustees for construction approval in June. Trustees also approved construction of the central loading dock for the future Anne T. and Robert M. Bass Biology Research Building. Last year, trustees approved the design of the Bass Biology Building, which will be located across Campus Drive from the James. H. Clark Center. The building is expected to return to trustees for construction approval in June. Teaching and learning Trustees heard a presentation from John Mitchell, vice provost for teaching and learning, who titled his address "Inventing the Future of Teaching and Learning." Mitchell focused primarily on the 2015-16 Year of Learning, a series of events and initiatives for the Stanford community designed to engage faculty, instructors, students, staff and alumni in thinking about the past, present and future of teaching and learning at Stanford and beyond. The university launched the Year of Learning in October with a celebration of great teaching. The next event in the Year of Learning, "The University of the Future: Learning Across the Lifespan," will be held at 4 p.m. Tuesday, March 1, in Room 300 of the Huang Building. The event will feature a panel discussion with Harry J. Elam Jr., vice provost for undergraduate education; Jennifer Widom, a professor of computer science and of electrical engineering; Philip Pizzo, former dean of Stanford School of Medicine and founding director of the Distinguished Careers Institute at Stanford; and others, who will discuss lifelong learning, the evolving traditional role of the university and ideas for the future of Stanford in the changing ecosystem of higher education. Mitchell also discussed Stanford's new course evaluations, which were introduced autumn quarter, and were designed to increase student self-reflection and provide customized feedback to faculty. Divestment Susan Weinstein, chair of the Advisory Panel on Investment Responsibility and Licensing, presented the panel's recommendation on a request that Stanford divest from 200 fossil-fuel extraction companies. Denning said the board's Special Committee on Investment Responsibility is evaluating the recommendation in the context of Stanford's Statement on Investment Responsibility, which includes the six requirements that must be met in order for trustees to divest and to suspend further direct investment by the endowment in a company or companies. He added that the Special Committee on Investment Responsibility will make a recommendation on the request to the full Board of Trustees. "We hope to have a response to the divestment request by the end of the year, but hopefully before then," Denning said. Former trustees feted in new arts district Every other year, the Board of Trustees hosts a meeting of the Council of Trustees, which is composed of former members of the board. This year, a record number of former trustees returned to campus for a program of events held in the university's new arts district, including lunch, dinner, talks and a tour of the Anderson Collection at Stanford University. Denning noted that the arts district represents a significant part of President Hennessy's legacy. During his tenure, Stanford created the arts district by adding three buildings to the neighborhood surrounding the Cantor Arts Center: Bing Concert Hall, which opened in 2013; the Anderson Collection at Stanford University, which opened in 2014; and the McMurtry Building for the Department of Art & Art History, which opened in 2015. The Council of Trustees reunion dinner was held in the Gunn Atrium of Bing Concert Hall. At the new McMurtry Building for the Department of Art & Art History, the former trustees heard an address by President Hennessy, who talked about the remarkable transformation of the campus since he took office in 2000. "The attendance for this year's reunion was a testament to John's leadership and his legacy," Denning said. "John's presentation was a real tour de force." At the McMurtry Building, Jason Linetzky, director of the Anderson Collection at Stanford University, gave former trustees an overview of its distinctive collection of postwar American art 121 modern and contemporary paintings and sculptures. Then, Professor Alexander Nemerov, a scholar of American art and chair of the Department of Art & Art History, gave a lecture on one particular painting in the collection a 1957 abstract by Clyfford Still that visitors see at the top of the stairs in the museum. After the presentations, the former trustees toured the Anderson Collection. Accolades for Stanford's president-designate Denning said that in the weeks since the Feb. 4 announcement that Marc Tessier-Lavigne, a pioneering neuroscientist, will be Stanford's 11th president, he has received a significant number of unsolicited accolades about him. Tessier-Lavigne, who is currently president of Rockefeller University, will take office Sept. 1, succeeding President Hennessy, who took office in 2000. Denning said the people who praised Tessier-Lavigne described him as an extraordinarily talented individual who had played a catalytic role in raising the profile of the life sciences in New York City and in championing the New York Genome Center while serving as Rockefeller's president. "Marc, who was the first person in his family to go to college, is humble and self-effacing, and a great listener," Denning said. "He is also a highly distinguished scientist, a well-respected academic, a proven entrepreneur and business executive, and the sitting president of a distinguished university. I have very high hopes that Marc will be able to build on John's astounding legacy." Police surrounded the area, shutting roads around 5.00 a.m. in a bid to prevent protests or resistance as about a dozen excavators razed the decades-old spot, EFE news reported. North Jakarta Mayor Rustam Effendi signed off on the eviction letters issued earlier this month to Kalijodo's hundreds of households who earn incomes mostly based on sex work. Police raided cafes and brothels, arresting dozens for drug use and holding weapons ahead of Monday's demolition, in which over 600 buildings are being cleared for an urban green space along a canal, which straddles north and west Jakarta. The government has also promised employment training for sex workers who wish to change professions. --Indo-Asian News Service ksk/dg ( 157 Words) 2016-02-29-12:23:39 (IANS) "I thank and congratulate Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for keeping farmers, poor and rural India at the centre of union budget," Shah told reporters after the budget was presented in parliament. "This budget will help strengthen Modi's aim of bringing poor and villagers into the mainstream of development," Shah added. --Indo-Asian News Service pku-sar/bg ( 82 Words) 2016-02-29-14:01:33 (IANS) Speaking by phone, Malala said the entire nation was proud of Sharmeen Obaid and grateful to her for raising voice for women rights. Internationally known filmmaker from Pakistan, Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy's documentary 'A Girl In The River: The Price of Forgiveness' has won the Oscar at the 88th Academy Award Ceremony. Malala expressed a hope that the Pakistan government would introduce effective legislation against honour killing, The News International reported. --Indo-Asian News Service py/vt ( 107 Words) 2016-02-29-18:39:33 (IANS) The BJP-led NDA Government on Monday lauded the General Budget for 2016-17 presented by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the Parliament, calling it a 'perfect progressive budget'. "This is a perfect people's budget. It is full of development and faith. This budget is to strengthen the youth and the farmers. It is a perfect progressive budget. It has stood up to the people's expectations," Minister of State (MoS) for Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi told the media here. Echoing similar sentiments, Minister of State for Power, Coal and New and Renewable Energy Piyush Goyal said it's an outstanding budget. "I can't even imagine the vast subject that has been covered in the budget. Truly as the Finance Minister said, it's a transformational budget and it is the foundation of transforming the nation," he added. Dubbing the General Budget as 'progressive' and 'visionary', Minister of State for Environment and Forests Prakash Javadekar said this budget is for everyone and a gift for the poor. Presenting the General Budget proposals for 2016-17 in Parliament today, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said that the government's agenda is to transform India, with incentives for agriculture and farmers' welfare, rural employment and development of infrastructure, covering all welfare and health services as well as making India as a knowledge based and productive society. Jaitley said that government will reorient its intervention in the farm and non-farm sectors to shift focus beyond the country's food security to farmers' income security. He said that a total allocation of Rs.35, 984 crore is proposed for this purpose in order to double the income of farmers by 2022. He said that a Unified Agricultural Marketing E-Platform will be dedicated to the nation on the birthday of Dr. Baba Saheb Ambedkar on April 14 this year to help the farmers in accessing markets, which is critical for enhancing their income. (ANI) Slapped with a sedition case allegedly at behest of BJP, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today said a sedition case was registered against me as I voiced the concerns of dalits and downtrodden. I dont fear and will continue to do so always, nobody can gag me.When our soldiers are being martyred at border, Prime Minister Modi ji, in an attempt to form the government in Jammu & Kashmir is trying hard to save the Kashmiri youths who raised anti-India slogans at Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Mr Kejriwal, who is here in Punjab for five-day visit, said.It were Kashmiri students who raised the anti-India slogans in JNU, but as action against them will annoy Mehbooba Mufti, Modi ji, deliberately targeted dalit students, he added.I am more patriotic than Mr Modi and want to ask why those who shouted anti-India slogans were not arrested?, he quipped.He said that dalits are being denied justice, rather their voice is being suppressed in the dictatorial rule of Mr Modi, Mr Kejriwal, was at Boha village of Ludhiana, where two dalit youths Harinder Singh and Jatinder Singh were killed in a fake encounter by police a couple of years ago. Terror of Badals is all set to end after one year, Mr Kejriwal vowed while addressing the family of the deceased youth.UNI XC ADG SB1335 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0293-613453.Xml The CPI-M on Monday condemned the registration of a sedition case against its general secretary Sitaram Yechury and others in Hyderabad. "The FIR has been lodged by the police ostensibly because these leaders had extended support to the students of JNU who are protesting against the arrest (in a) sedition case of leaders of the students union and other student organisations," it said in a statement. "The manner in which the sedition clause is being used in this case underlines the necessity to scrap the sedition clause 124A in the Indian Penal Code," the Communist Party of India-Marxist said. "The CPI-M demands the withdrawal of the cases against the opposition leaders and all others named in the FIR." The statement urged the central government to desist from actions which suppress democratic rights and freedoms in the country by branding dissent and opposition as "anti-national". On Sunday, a FIR charging Congress vice president Raul Gandhi, Yechury, Delhi Chief Minister Aravind Kejriwal and others with sedition was registered at a police station in Hyderabad. On the direction of a city court, the Saroornagar police station registered the FIR against JNU Students Union president Kanahiya Kumar and the leaders of the Congress, CPI-M and AAP. Communist Party of India leader D. Raja, Congress leaders Ajay Maken and Anand Sharma and Janata Dal-United leader K.C. Tyagi have also been named in the FIR. The case has been registered under section 124 A (sedition) of the Indian Penal Code. Police took the action after a metropolitan magistrate issued the orders on a petition filed by a lawyer requesting the court to forward his complaint to the police station. Petitioner Janardhan Goud told the court that though he approached the police station on February 14 to register the case, police declined to do so. The lawyer alleged that Gandhi and the other leaders committed sedition by visiting the JNU to support the students who he said had raised anti-India slogans. Police said they will seek legal opinion before taking further action in the case. --Indo-Asian News Service mr/ ( 353 Words) 2016-02-29-14:06:53 (IANS) Some 500 teachers along with members of the Employees' Joint Action Committee gathered in the Residency Road area here shouting slogans against the director of school education whom they blamed for anti-teacher policies. Police intervened when the protesters started a march from the Press Enclave towards the office of the director school education, Kashmir. Half a dozen protesters were injured when police used batons and tear smoke shells to disperse them. Over a dozen protesters were arrested and taken to the nearby police station. Traffic and shops in the area were momentarily affected but resumed immediately after the march was dispersed. --Indo-Asian News Service sq/ahm/bg ( 134 Words) 2016-02-29-14:08:19 (IANS) "Launch aborted on low thrust alarm. Rising oxygen temps due to hold for boat and helium bubble triggered alarm. Ignition sequence aborted in final seconds of countdown; update pending from launch team after data review," Elon Musk tweeted. The 23-story rocket, carrying a communications satellite for Luxembourg-based SES SA, was less than two minutes from blast-off at 6:47 p.m. when the launch team aborted the countdown, SpaceX said during a webcast. SpaceX is an American aerospace manufacturer and space transports services company. Headquartered in California, the company was founded in 2002 by former PayPal entrepreneur and Tesla Motors CEO Elon Musk with the goal of creating the technologies to reduce space transportation costs and enable the colonisation of Mars. (ANI) Expressing his satisfaction towards the General Budget presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, senior Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Yashwant Sinha on Monday dubbed the budget as 'progressive' and 'visionary', adding that there was 'something for everyone' in it. "This budget has clearly passed and if you look carefully, the Finance Minister has managed to comprehensively include all the aspects which were necessary keeping the current economic situation in mind. I have no doubts that when people see and understand the budget then they will discover that there is something for everyone in all aspects," Sinha told ANI here. Lauding the stress given on rural development in the Budget, the former finance minister said the corporate sector also stands to gain immensely from it. He stated that the overall philosophy of the Budget indicated that a little extra is being taken from the very rich so that it can be given to the poor as relief. "The fact that the dividend tax is applicable on those who earn more than 10 lakh is very good. The Budget has maintained the fiscal discipline and I am very happy with it," Sinha said. Meanwhile, the BJP-led NDA Government lauded the General Budget, calling it a 'perfect progressive budget'. "This is a perfect people's budget. It is full of development and faith. This budget is to strengthen the youth and the farmers. It is a perfect progressive budget. It has stood up to the people's expectations," Minister of State (MoS) for Parliamentary Affairs Mukhtar Abbas Naqvi told the media here. However, the Congress gave thumbs down to the Budget saying it was 'high on rhetoric' and lacked any imagination. "The budget presented by the finance minister is high on rhetoric, flawed on comparisons. It is bereft on any ideas, it lacks imagination, it helps the oligarics, it constrains the freedom of the central bank and in totality it is a dead scud," Congress leader Manish Tewari told ANI. Earlier today, Jaitley presenting the Budget for the next fiscal in the Parliament listed out the nine priority areas for the government: farmer welfare, rural sector, social sector, education skills, infrastructure, financial reforms, ease of doing business, fiscal discipline and tax reform that will transform the country. (ANI) Soon after the house met, Lok Sabha Speaker Sumitra Mahajan asked Jaitley to present the budget but Congress member K.C. Venugopal stood up and sought to know from the Speaker the status of his privilege motion against the Human Resource Development minister. "It is painful for me to do that on the day of general budget, I had to move a privilege motion against the HRD minister," Venugopal said. Other members of the Congress, including the party's leader in the house Mallikarjun Kharge, also stood up and asked the speaker to clarify the status of the notice. Parliamentary Affairs Minister M. Venkaiah Naidu objected and said: "Very cheap politics...nothing should go on record." Amid noisy scenes, Mahajan requested the agitating members not to create a ruckus and let the minister present the budget. "I have received the notices given on February 26 and February 29 against Smriti Irani. The matter is under my consideration," Mahajan said. --Indo-Asian News Service bns/sd/bg ( 210 Words) 2016-02-29-14:49:34 (IANS) Congress today dubbed Union Budget 2016-2017 as ''anti-poor'', saying it had nothing for the commoners and its beneficiaries will be only be big corporates. ''The budget is anti-poor and for big corporate. Again, the government has disappointed us with this vision-less budget,'' Leader of Congress in Lok Sabha Mallikarjun Kharge told mediapersons in his first reactions on the budget. Accusing government of not taking adequate steps to bring black money back to the country, which he said was one of key poll promises of BJP-led NDA government, the Congress leader alleged that ''flawed budget'' will help businessmen to further amass illicit money in the country. Sharpening his attack on the Centre, Mr Kharge said the government had completely neglected the ''ongoing agrarian crisis'' in rural India and added that it had reduced budgetary allocations in several social sector schemes.''We thought government will take a serious note about our loan-ridden farmers and would waive or cut their debt, due to which they are committing suicides but government kept mum on that front as well,'' Mr Kharge said. ''There is nothing for commoners and for the middle class as well. Rs 3000 rebate, what kind of relief is this? Every section has been disappointed with his budget whether they are poor, women, farmers, small businessmen,'' he added. ''How will they build 1 lakh kilometer of roads? Do they have money for it?'' the Congress leader said, adding that making big announcements is a different thing but turning them into reality is altogether different ballgame. UNI RG AJ AE 1455 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0377-613717.Xml Time and again the brigade of separatists blamed the Armed Forces for creating environmental imbalances in the state but rubbishing their blames, Army has said that they always played a major role in conserving the environment across the Jammu and Kashmir. Incidents like the controversy over re-notification of Tosha Maidan and Kharbuthang Field Firing Ranges, accidents involving explosion of misfired ammunition and civilian casualties due to mine explosions along the border belt; have all been used by the separatists to blame Army for causing environmental imbalances, defence sources here told UNI. They said, the fact is, actually the reverse. The Indian Army, by virtue of its deployment along the border areas of Jammu and Kashmir, has a large and visible footprint across the state, which also makes it a major stakeholder of the rich ecological heritage. The Jammu and Kashmir region, Kashmir valley in particular, has lately experienced a trend of increasing population, pollution and unchecked exploitation of natural resources, over a period of time, which has adversely impacted its pristine environment, sources asserted. This is a growing perception (fuelled by anti-nationals elements like the separatists and others) that attributes Armys presence for the rapid depletion of Kashmirs environmental resources, sources maintained. They said that the Army, conscious of its social responsibility has regularly contributed towards improvement of the regions ecology, adding, contribution to the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan is an ongoing drive within the Army; wherein cleanliness drives, with the active participation of locals and support of the civil administration were launched in areas around Ganderbal, Anantnag, Srinagar, Tangdhar, Kupwara, Baramulla, Handwara and Lolab in the Valley; and in Reasi, Udhampur, Jammu, Doda, Rajouri, Mirpur and Poonch in the Jammu Region. Sources further said that the launch of Mission Falah, in August 2014, was an initiative undertaken to clean the Tosha Maidan Firing range of all unexploded bombs and dangerous objects and added, Besides, Army launched a massive tree plantation drive to plant more than ten thousand saplings in the affected Budgam district, over a period of three months.MORE UNI VBH ADG AS1500 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0421-613672.Xml However, security forces burst teargas shells and resorted to lathicharge to disperse the demonstrators who hit the busy Residency road before over 50 teachers, including president of the Employees Joint Action Committee (EJAC) president Abdul Qayoum Wani, were taken into preventive custody. Hundreds of teachers from different parts of the Valley assembled at Mushtaq Press Enclave near here, raising slogans against the Director education, who has allegedly reopened the union office of teachers at Bemina. Dr Shah has saidt the rooms belonging to educational department were never allotted to any union and had been forcibly occupied. However, Mr Wani who was recently transferred to Tangmarg, his native village, alleged that the belongings of the union were stolen and records torched on the direction Dr Shah. Mr Wani has however, got his transferred stayed of a court. Raising slogans against Dr Shah and government, the teachers, led by Mr Wani hit the Residency road, where the large number of security force and police personnel had been deployed. However, when the teachers tried to cross the area, security forces swung into action and resorted to lathicharge on teachers who were insisting that they should be allowed to move forward. Security forces took into custody over 50 agitators and later burst teargas shells to disperse them. Traffic on the busy road was also affected for about half an hour.UNI BAS AE CS1502 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0153-613694.Xml Eyeing 2017 Assembly polls in Uttar Pradesh; the Akhilesh Yadav government will hold a three-day long : Samajwadi Vikas Diwas' to highlight its achievements. The three-day programme , starting from May 26, would highlight the development agenda the projects and schemes launched by the state government during its four year tenure. Official sources here today said the Samajwadi Vikas Diwas would be celebrated with full pomp and show at all the 821 blocks and 75 districts of the state for full three days. "The diwas would be organised like a national festival with an aim to project chief minister Akhilesh Yadav as a 'Vikas Purush'. During the programme,songs and street corner dramas would be held to highlight the works done by the state government for the poor and needy people," sources said. On the occasion, it has been decided that in each block 200 people would be distributed benefits with 100 people to received Samajwadi Pension and 50 people would be allotted Lohia Awas besides 50 women would receive other benefits from the state government. Meanwhile in order to propogate the 'Samajwadi Vikas Diwas' and make it popular and successful, on the direction of the chief minister, state chief secretary Alok Ranjan would be holding a meeting with the senior departmental officials on May 5 and will hold a video-conferencing with all the district officials on May 10. The government will also depute a nodal officer in each of the 75 districts for the success of the programme.UNI MB PS CS1438 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0196-613288.Xml The exports from the Information Technology sector from Karnataka is expected to touch Rs 2.20 lakh crore during the current fiscal, Governor Vajubhai R Vala today said. In his address at the Joint Legislature session, he said Karnataka remained undisputed leader in IT sector in the country contributing 1/3rd of the country's IT export revenues. IT was the first state in the country to announce a Multi-sectoral Start-up Policy 2015-20 to boost the startlup culture. Bengaluru was the only Indian city to be ranked within the best 20 Start-up eco systems in the world according to a report. The IT capital was home to around 4000 active tech Start-ups. The government had set up start-up warehouse in the city in association with NASSCOM. To encourage entrepreneurship, nine Incubation Centres have been sanctioned for engineering colleges across the State. The IT skills development Socity was providing training to unemployed youth in basic ICT skills. IIIT-Dharwad had started functioning from this year, he added.UNI RS MSP ADG BL1625 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0285-613821.Xml Presenting the Budget in Parliament, Mr Jaitley said he had accepted Mr Gandhis suggestion of tax exemption for Braille paper. The Congress Vice-President had recently sent a letter to Commerce Minister Nirmala Sitharaman urging for exempting specialised equipment for visually-challenged people. Mr Gandhis letter came after his intervention was sought by a student when he recently visited Bengalurus Mount Carmel College.UNI NAZ AE SB 1710 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0091-614108.Xml Hailing the Union Budget 2016-17 as a pro-farmer, growth oriented, balanced and a realistic budget, Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today thanked Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for allocating Rs 100 crore to mark 350th birth celebrations of tenth Sikh Master Guru Gobind Singh. In a statement here, Mr Badal said that it was a matter of a great pride that the Union government has made a special provision of Rs 100 crore in the budget for celebrating the birth anniversary of great Sikh Guru in an 'unsurpassed manner'. He said that this pro-minority stance of the NDA government was a humble tribute of the Union Government towards the supreme sacrifice made by the tenth Sikh Guru. He said that this unprecedented decision the government was a supreme gift for every Punjabi in general and Sikhs across the globe in particular. Welcoming the announcement to reorient Centres interventions in the farm and non-farm sectors to double the income of the farmers by 2022, the Chief Minister said that it would be very helpful in mitigating the woes of farming community. He said that it was a matter of great satisfaction and pride that the NDA government has almost doubled the budgetary provisions kept for agriculture sector in fiscal 2016-17 than the current financial year. He also expressed happiness over the decision to encourage farmers to take up allied farming activities to supplement their family income. Mr Badal said that the announcements like introduction of Pashudhan Sanjivani, an animal wellness programme and provision of Animal Health Cards (Nakul Swasthya Patra), an advanced breeding technology, creation of E-Pashudhan Haat, an e market portal for connecting breeders and farmers and a national genomic centre for indigenous breeds at a cost of Rs 850 crore would go a long way in making allied farming sector far more remunerative to the farmers. He said that these decisions as would act as a catalyst to supplement the income of farmers and make farming a profitable venture. He said that the budget presented by the Union Finance Minister was a step forward towards ensuring the well being of farmers. Mr Badal also welcomed the announcement to develop 300 Rurban clusters under the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission as these clusters would act as incubate growth centres in rural areas by providing infrastructure amenities and market access for the farmers adding that they would also expand employment opportunities for the youth. He also hailed the decision of creating a dedicated long term irrigation fund in NABARD with an initial corpus of about Rs 20,000 crore and initiating a major programme for sustainable management of ground water resources at an estimated cost of Rs 6,000 crore. Likewise, the decision to hold national level competition among 674 krishi vigyan kendras with total prize money of Rs 50 lakh would help in improving the efficiency and performance of these kendras besides boosting the research in agriculture sector, he added. The Chief Minister also welcomed a health insurance scheme which protects one-third of Indias population against hospitalisation expenditure and decision to provide BPL families with a cooking gas connection, supported by a government subsidy. Likewise, he said that move to set up a Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) with an initial capital base of Rs 1,000 crore and to set up 1500 Multi Skill Training Institutes across the country at a cost of Rs 1,700 crore was a step forward towards opening new vistas of higher education and skill training for the youth to make them gainfully employed.UNI DB ADG BL1649 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0293-613820.Xml The Delhi Chief Minister was sitting in the front seat of the vehicle when the protesters pelted stones at his car and damaged its windshield. Mr Kejriwal was moved to another vehicle immediately after the incident. AAP leader Durgesh Pathak claimed that the mob was armed with rods and sticks. He said that the Delhi Chief Minister was safe. "My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals and Congress nervous? They can't break my spirits," the Delhi Chief Minister tweeted. Kejriwal is in Punjab to campaign for the assembly elections scheduled to be held in 2017.UNI XC DB SB CS1712 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0293-614013.Xml Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar today lauded the Union Budget 2016-17, presented by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Parliament, and described it as pro-poor, pro-farmer, welfare and growth-oriented which has something for every section of the society.He was all praise for the goal to double the income of farmers in five years and the provision of Rs 35,984 crore for their welfare."The Budget will surely help de-stress the distressed rural sector. The proposals to set apart Rs 9 lakh crore for farm credit; Rs 5,500 crore for crop insurance scheme; dedicated irrigation fund worth Rs 20,000 crore under NABARD; highest ever compensation in case of crop loss under the Prime Minister Fasal Bima Yojana and allocation of Rs 412 crore for encouraging organic farming would open new opportunities for the farmers," he said.Besides, the proposals to have a unified agriculture market e-platform, allocation of the highest-ever Rs 38,500 crore to MNREGA and the target of 100 per cent rural electrification by May 1, 2018 are highly appreciable.Mixing fiscal prudence with sagacious use of resources at his command, Mr Jaitley has given infrastructure the much needed boost with the allocation of Rs 2.31 lakh crore, including Rs 97,000 crore for roads for building 10,000 kms of National Highways in 2016-17 and conversion of 50,000 km of state highways to national highways, he said.The employees stand to gain a lot. While HRA deduction from taxable income has been increased to Rs 60,000 per annum; 40 per cent of withdrawal under NPS will be tax-exempt; and additional exemption of Rs 50,000 has been given for housing loans up to Rs 35 lakh, provided the cost of house is not above Rs 50 lakh. Besides,health insurance of up to Rs 1 lakh per family is a laudable social welfare measure, Mr Khattar added.The allocation of Rs 500 crore for Stand Up India Scheme for members belonging to SCs/ STs and women entrepreneurs, proposal to promote two projects under Stand Up India per bank branch per category, opening 1,500 multi-skill training institutes and to skill one crore youth in the next three years under the PM Kaushal Vikas Yojana, and Rs 1,000 crore for higher education financing would help skill the youth and get them employment, the Chief Minister said.Appreciating an allocation of Rs 9,500 crore for Swacch Bharat Abhiyan, proposal to cover six crore additional households under digital literacy scheme in the next three years, he said that the decision to set up 300 urban clusters under Shyama Prasad Mukherji Rurban Mission would help change the urban landscape in the country.UNI DB AE BD1755 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0293-614033.Xml The Union Budget presented in the Lok Sabha by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley evoked mixed reactions from the people of the Hyderabad-Karnataka, the most backward region in the state. The Hyderabad-Karnataka Chamber of Commerce & Industry (HKCCI) president Amarnath Patil said that the budget has not fully justified but was average budget and not free from corporate clutches Though the HKCCI welcomed the Budget but felt that it was not free from big multinational company and corporate sector. The Budget though mentioned about Standup India scheme, Mudra Yojana. These schemes would help the development of the country but hundred per cent welcome on FDI for food processing sector defiantly harm the society, Mr Patil said in a release here. He said that though Mr Jaitley had liberally granted customs duty exemption, and reduction in Excise duties towards helping the MNCs, nothing had been done for the Indian companies and SSIs. "Nevertheless it was a welcome move that the Union Budget had given priority to the agriculture sector, development of women, irrigation sector, and education," he added. Mr Patil also welcomed the move for skill development, APMC e-marketing but criticised reduction on corporate tax. Karnataka Pradesh Red Gram Growers Association (KPRGA) president Basavaraj Ingin too welcomed the 2017 Union Budget and said that it was progressive and pro-agriculture. He welcomed the decision natural calamity reserve fund. He also welcomed the move for bio-farming, irrigation allocation and APMC e-marketing. He expressed happiness on allocation of Rs 500 crore for pulses development fund, and this would help the production of red gram in the region. Karnataka Prantha Raith Sangh said president Maruti Manpade alleged that the budget was 'corporate friendly and anti-farmer'.UNI SD MSP DJK AE NS1834 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0285-614056.Xml Setting a deadline of completing the ongoing work of upgradation of infra structure in Government Medical College (GMC), Amritsar, Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today asked the officers to complete Rs 104 crore project by August this year, to impart quality healthcare services to people. Presiding over a review meeting of the project here at his residence this morning, the Chief Minister, while reiterating the firm commitment of state government to provide quality healthcare services to people, said this college was one of the pioneer institute in the region and this project would give a major facelift to it besides providing state of the art healthcare facilities to the people of border region. Mr Badal asked his Special Principal Secretary KJS Cheema to personally review the entire ongoing work so that it could be completed well in time. Meanwhile, the Chief Minister was apprised that the Public Works Department (B&R) and Punjab Health System Corporation were executing the work under this ambitious project. He was told that the work of various buildings in college like Guru Nanak Dev Hospital, Nursing Hostel, Auditorium and Library was going on in full swing. Likewise, Mr Badal was informed that the work on construction of boys and girls hostel was also going on in full pace. The Chief Minister was also informed that eight buildings of the college including block A and B, TB Ward, Ears and Eye Hospital, Anatomy, Pathology, Microbiology, Pharmacy and Pharmacology departments, office and residence of Principal have been identified which would be developed by restoring their traditional look. The work of restoring the traditional look to office and residence of Principal has been entrusted to Indian National Trust and Cultural Heritage (INTACH).UNI JS PY CS1854 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0293-614260.Xml Workers in the nine units of the Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) will strike work on March 2, demanding settlement of Pension Scheme for the permanent workers. Bharat Electronics Workers Unity Forum General Secretary K Annadurai and Bharat Electronics Workers Union General Secretary C Raju, in a release here today said the decision for going on strike was taken by the representative forum of all the negotiating trade unions of the nine units of the company recently. Stating that the pension scheme was implemented for officers and BEL Pension Trust was formed to effective implementation, Annadurai said there should be no structural discrimination between officers and workers atleast in matter of superannuaton benefits. "While huge difference exists in wages and benefits between officers and workers, the same cannot be tolerated in matters of post retiremet benefits." He said earlier the Management had committed to the workers at its JSC meetings that, same and similar pension scheme will be implemented to the workers, once the matter was cleared by the government of India. "Now backtracking from its earlier committed position, the Management has offered five per cent pension scheme with effecdt from January 1-1-2012. This offer has been rejected by the Trade Unions," he said. The Trade Unions of Nine units have decided to intensify its agitation if the issue was not resolved amicably.UNI MSP PY CS1900 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0287-614375.Xml Claiming that the Akalis have looted the state coffer to such an extent that now government land is being sold by them to pay salaries of state employees, Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convenor today said that the day is not far when Akalis will sell the Punjab Secretariat to pay salaries. "I have learnt that fiscal health of the state is so bad that even to pay the salaries of its employees, state government is selling its land," Mr Kejriwal, who is on a five-day visit of the state, said, adding that if situation continues the 'mis-management and irregularities of state government will force it sell the government buildings too. "Day is not far when the Civil Secretariat of Punjab would also be on sale to run government expenses due to financial mess", he said. The AAP leader said that attack on my convoy was sign of Akalis panic and frustration due to growing popularity of AAP in Punjab. Earlier, during a meeting with Mr Kejriwal, Ludhiana industrialists informed him that during last 10 years, majority of the industrialists units have either shut down or shifted from Punjab and just two per cent of the total units are in operation, that too in bad shape. Both the Centre and state governments were responsible for such a worst situation of industry in the border state, they rued. After hearing grievances of industrialists, Mr Kejriwal said when AAP came to power in Delhi, situation was similar to Punjab. Traders were living under fear of raids and Inspector Raj. "We have changed the situation and now there is no unnecessary harassment of traders and state government has also started getting more revenue", he added. The AAP leader said for the growth of the industry and tackling the issue of unemployment, it is must for the state to ensure growth of industry. "I will come back in May to discuss your problems as well as its possible solutions before finalising the proposed industrial policy to be implemented during AAPs regime in Punjab", Mr Kejriwal told industrialists. Later, he also met with the industrialists of Mandi Gobindgarh, where 70 per cent of industrial units got closed and more than 50000 workers left unemployed. The traders rued of 'Goonda Tax'. The Delhi CM reiterated that it would be priority of the AAP regime to curb the menace within 24 hours of forming the government. He said that in AAPs regime industrial revival of the state would be the prime task to make Punjab as Most Favoured Destination' for investment.UNI DB DJK RAI1939 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0293-614427.Xml : Telangana Pradesh Congress Committee president N. Uttam Kumar Reddy has slammed the TRS Government for not releasing more than 50 per cent of funds allocated for Minorities Welfare in budget 2015-16. In a statement here today Mr Reddy alleged that Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao's review meeting on Sunday on minorities' issues was aimed at diverting people's attention from the fact that more than 50 per cent of funds meant for minorities welfare have not been released so far. This is the second consecutive year when minorities have been deprived of funds of more than 50 per cent funds. As against Rs. 1030 crore allocated in 2014-15, only Rs. 438.27 Cr (42.52 per cent) were released. Similarly, of Rs. 1100 Cr allocated in 201-16, not even 50 per cent of funds have been released so far, he reasoned. "Mr Rao has conveniently allowed more than Rs. 1,000 Cr meant for minorities welfare to lapse during the last two years. He is now trying to divert attention from his sweet talk and a bunch of new promises.Sunday's review meeting, in the presence of MIM leaders, was aimed at silencing the community. Additional funds of Rs. 5.4 crore for Jamia Nizamia and Rs. 10 crore for Darul Uloom, Rs. 1.75 crore for repair of Mecca Masjid and other minor expenditures are meant to hush up the fact of non-release of more than Rs. 1,000 crore for minorities welfare," Mr Reddy pointed out. The TPCC President demanded a 'White Paper; on release of funds for minorities welfare during the last two years. He also asked the Chief Minister to give an assurance in writing that funds meant for Minorities Welfare would not be allowed to lapse. The Congress party would demand Minorities sub-plan in the next budget session to ensure full utilisation of allocated funds for minorities welfare.UNI VV KVV ADB 2025 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0414-614825.Xml At a review meeting here today, Mr Gupta also stressed on garnering passenger satisfaction by ensuring passenger reach their destination in time. The review meeting also involved video conferencing with the Divisional Railway Managers of Secunderabad, Hyderabad, Vijayawada, Guntur, Guntakal and Nanded Divisions. Detailing on the systemic improvements to ensure safety, Mr Gupta, instructed the Sr Divisional Safety Officers to conduct ambush checks frequently and take stringent action on the erring staff. The General Manager made a strong point for ensuring the implementation of safety procedures without fail. Acknowledging the good performance and timely alertness of the staff that lead to averting the untoward incidents, Shri Ravindra Gupta presented Man of the Month awards to seven employees of the Zone.UNI VV KVV ADB 2037 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0414-614836.Xml Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy today registered a strong protest against the Central Budget alleging that it has totally ignored the State. Kerala expected Central help in the agriculture sector as the state has been going through hard times, Mr Chandy said here. The expectation that 1000 crore would be set aside for rubber farmers has been shattered. Moreover the budget allocation for rubber board has also been reduced, he pointed out. Though the State Government took steps to identify land for AIMS on the assurance of the Centre, there was no mention regarding the same in the budget, Mr Chandy rued. The Chief Minister said Sabarimala was also not declared a national pilgrimage centre. No projects were declared for the Pravasis who are returning due to the financial difficulties in the gulf region. The demand of the state to declare a special package for the aadivasis in Wayanad district was also not considered, he remarked. The Chief Minister also pointed out that there has been a considerable decline in the budget share for different Central projects and public sector undertaking in the state.UNI DS KVV ADB 2055 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0414-614869.Xml The Madras High Court (HC) Bench here today dismissed a petition filed by 35 crew members of the United States (US) based anti-piracy vessel MV Seaman Guard Ohio seeking to suspend five years Rigorous Imprisonment (R.I) awarded to them by a lower court. Tuticorin Principal Sessions Court on January 11, last had sentenced the crew members of US vessel to undergo five years R.I and slapped a fine of Rs 3,000 each for violating International Maritime Border rules and unlawfully straying into Indian territorial waters without valid documents carrying huge stock of arms and ammunition. The crew members of the impounded vessel filed a petition before the HC Bench seeking to suspend the sentence till the disposal of the case and also filed a writ appeal to set aside the Judgement of Tuticorin Principal Sessions Court. When the case came up for hearing last week, defence counsel appearing for the appellants claimed that the crew were in possession of the sophisticated weapons only because the vessel was involved in anti-piracy activities and contended that the vessel was anchored on the International Maritime Boundary Line (IMBL) as it was running out of fuel, when it was caught by Indian Coast Guard (ICG). Justice V.S.Ravi, before whom the hearing came up, questioned why the vessel was near the Indian coast where there is no piracy threat. Public Prosecutor S.Shanmugavelayuthan submitted that the crew were arrested only after the vessel was found anchored for over 48 hours and the members possessed sophisticated fire arms. The crew failed to produce documents for the so-called anti-piracy and proof to prove their innocence, he said. Justice Ravi registered the arguments of both the parties and reserved orders. When the petition came up for hearing today, Justice Ravi passed order dismissing the petition seeking to suspend the sentence of lower court and posted the hearing of writ appeal to June 1. The ICG detained MV Seaman Guard Ohio, the Sierra Leone-flagged vessel of AdvanFort, a US-based company that provide maritime security for cargo and merchant ships from Somalian pirates for allegedly straying into Indian waters off Kanyakumari Coast on October 12, 2013. Tamilnadu Q Branch police arrested 14 Estonians, six Britons, three Ukranians and 12 Indian nations from the ship. They also seized 35 firearms, 5682 ammunitions, 102 magazines, travel documents and logbook from the vessel. UNI GSM KVV ADB2032 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0414-614881.Xml Loksatta Party tonight said that the Union budget presented in Parliament is 'status-quoist' and not 'transformative'. It has failed to meet the high expectations in terms of reforms, Party Tamil Nadu Unitspokesperson Narayanan said in a statement here. He said the key features in this budget includes ensuring fiscal prudence with the government attempting to keep the deficit within target limits, modest increase in infrastructure spendings and inadequate public sector banks capitalization. Also the budget adheres to medium-term road-map,he added. The government is taking many initiatives like Digital India, Skill India, Start-up India etc. For these initiatives there should be a clear road-map and a well planned budgetary allocation plan. Only predictability in the budget outcomes and stability of economy were the keys for the success of such initiatives. However the breathless media coverage of budgets is a throw back to license-raj. The hype surrounding the budget gives signals that the control is only with the government which should not be the case, he said. Mr Narayanan also said the party would like to remind that the real foundations of a great India are quality education, universal healthcare, strong rule of law and speedy justice. The budgetary spends should have been increased significantly in these areas. However these are all ignored once again. There are no major tax reforms in this budget and increased allocation for MNREGA indicates that the government is not keen on reforms in the social sector. We can achieve greatness only when productive potential of 80 per cent is harnessed. Though the Finance Minister adheres to 14th Finance Commissions recommendation of devolving to the local governments, the steps taken are not adequate. Money will be well-spent when choices are local and when more decision making powers are given to local governments in making their expenditures. Even wasteful subsidies can be cut only when local people have power to redirect expenditure as they know the limit of their resources. He said the party reinstates that Third tier federalism, real focus on outcomes of education & health and rule of law are the only ways forward for the real change to happen.UNI CS KVV ADB2100 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0414-614932.Xml : Apollo Hospitals Enterprise Limited, today welcomed the transformative budget presented by the Finance Minister. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley announced the Union Budget 2016-17 today and he laid out the roadmap to ensure macro-economic stability and prudent fiscal management". Accordingly, the budget proposals provided ways to ensure growth while tackling tough economic conditions, the hospitals said in a statement here. Prathap C Reddy, Chairman, Apollo Hospitals Group said: Today the Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has presented a comprehensive budget covering the livelihood of Indias soul its rural population. The Union Budget 2016-17 seems to be aimed at putting more money in the hands of the citizens, he said and adding that the healthcare has finally taken center stage in the Budget with initiatives like the Health Protection Scheme of Rs 1 lakh to cover unforeseen illness in poor families with an additional Rs 30,000 for senior citizens. In addition, the government also plans to add 3,000 pharmacies under the Jan Aushadhi Yojana to provide generic drugs at affordable rates. Ms. Suneeta Reddy, Managing Director, Apollo Hospitals said The Health Protection Scheme, Jan Aushadhi Yojana and the National Dialysis Services Program are steps in the right direction to address the health issues facing our people a healthy India will ensure the vitality of not just the economy but also its people. In the present day, our country is reeling under the burden of Non Communicable Diseases (NCDs) in the form of cardiovascular diseases, cancers and diabetes which are the leading cause of mortality, accounting for 60 per cent of all mortalities in India as per a WHO Report. The budget has also addressed the issue of NCDs in particular diabetes one of the primary reasons for kidney failure which requires regular dialysis. The Finance Minister has announced the National Dialysis Services Program, to tackle renal diseases . Public and Private sectors need to work together to bring awareness on early detection. The Finance Minister, using the power of Minimum Government and Maximum Governance announced the working with private sector on a National Dialysis Services Programme, which could not have come at a better time, given the burgeoning growth of non-communicable diseases, she According to the Finance Minister, the programme will be made available in all district hospitals on a public-private partnership model and on behalf of all the healthcare private sector providers, we welcome this endeavour, Dr Reddy added.UNI KNR KVV ADB 2102 -- (UNI) -- C-1-1-DL0414-614939.Xml Haryana government has further released an interim assistance of Rs 3,44,78,866 to 152 more people whose properties have been damaged in recent agitation in the state. The government has already released an interim assistance of Rs 1,12,56,638 to 203 persons yesterday.Stating this here today, an official spokesman said this amount is being released directly to bank accounts of the claimants through RTGS. This assistance is of Rs 1,08,37,500 for 33 people in Rohtak district, Rs 1,77,10,000 for 98 people in Sonepat, Rs 57,31,366 for 20 people in Hisar and Rs 2,00,000 for one person in Jind district.He said full claims would be made to the claimants after verification by assessment committee within seven days.UNI DB AE PR2023 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0293-614573.Xml Haryana Finance Minister Capt Abhimanyu today appreciated the Union Budget 2016-17 and described it as farmer friendly, which would also take care of the welfare of all sections of the society and would further accelerate the pace of development.In a statement here, the Minister said start-ups have been given tax exemption which would encourage the youth. In this budget, efforts have also been made to make tax rational. He said under skill development programme besides giving training to the youth, one crore youth would be made skilled in the next three years.He said the budget has also encouraged companies in the organised sector to provide maximum employment. Also, 100 per cent FDI has been approved for the food products produced in India.Special emphasis has been laid on making efforts to double the income of farmers by 2022. Emphasis has also been laid on infrastructural development and investment. The Minister said keeping in view the interests of the middle class,for the first time a provision of tax exemption on the purchase of house has been made. An additional exemption of Rs 50,000 would be available for house costing Rs 50 lakh.In a separate statement here, Haryana Education Minister Ram Bilas Sharma said Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has emphasised on multi-skill development in the budget for the year 2016-17 presented by him in the Parliament today and added that it would provide jobs as well as self-employment opportunities to a large number of youth.UNI DB AE BD2001 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0293-614648.Xml Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Virbhadra Singh said that state government would provide relief to the small and marginal farmers who are being evicted from their land holdings after High court order to remove encroachment felling and pruning the orchards raised on such entitlements. Replying to a short discussion brought under rule 63 in state assembly by Mahinder Singh Thakur of BJP(Dharmpur) Mr. Singh said that High court issued directions to forest and revenue department to work sternly against the encroached landof both department. "State is bound to comply with high court directions meanwhile it had pursued the case in the court as the resolution was passed in state assembly during Monsoon Session. The state pleaded before the court that encroachment drive should be suspend as it want to bring out policy to give reprieve to small and marginal farmers" Mr. Singh said. High court did not consider the plea so far however it had barred the state government to frame any policy to regularised the encroachment of small and marginal farmers. State would again intervene in the matter to stop action against the small farmers however it would deal with big land shark promptly Earlier starting the debate Mr Thakur said that apple green trees of farmers who were keeping possession of such holding for last 50 yrs. He demanded that state government should emphatically raised this issue before the state high court or failing to which state could amend the prevailing land laws to benefit farmers. Mr Thakur said that state have often that it could approach supreme court against the eviction order of Himahcal Pradesh High court. BJP member Suresh Bhardwaj and Govind Sngh, Congress member Rohit Thakur, HLP Mr. Maheshwer Singh and independent Balbir Thakur participated in the debate. UNI ML RSA NS2135 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0293-614873.Xml Fourteen resident of the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) arrived while eight Kashmiris crossed over to other side of the Line of Control (LoC) to meet their relatives, separated in 1947 due to partition. As many as ten returnees also cross sides at Kaman post, the last Indian military post on this side of the LoC in Uri sector in north Kashmir district of Baramulla, official sources told UNI. They said fourteen PoK resident, including eight women, arrived at Kaman post after crossing Aman Setu, peace bridge on foot. Eight Kashmiris, including two women and a child, who had gone to other side of the LoC returned in tht Karvan-e-Aman bus, operating between Srinagar and Muzaffarabad, capital of PoK. They said eight Kashmiris, including two women and as many children, crossed over to the other side to meet their separated relatives. Two POK residents, including a woman, had arrived here in previous bus also returned to their homes after completing then stay here. The bus service, introduced since April 7,2005, has helped thousands of divided families to meet each. However, the number of POK guests arriving here goes down during winter and goes up in summer. In the contrast, the number of Kashmiris crossing to POK goes up in winter and goes down in summer when the weather remained pleasant with flowers everywhere.UNI BAS CJ RSA RAI2321 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0153-614264.Xml Vice Admiral Bimal Verma, AVSM today took over as the 13th Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN), succeeding Vice Admiral Pradeep Kumar Chatterjee, ADC who retired after 39 years of commissioned service today. Andaman and Nicobar Command, Indias first tri-service joint Command is considered as southern most strategic outpost of India. Vice Admiral Bimal Verma is an alumnus of the prestigious Rashtriya Indian Military College and National Defence Academy where he was adjudged the best Naval Cadet. He was commissioned in the Indian Navy on January 1,1980 and specialised in 'Communication and Electronic Warfare'. In the course of his distinguished career, the Flag Officer has held numerous important Command, Staff and Operational appointments. Vice Admiral Bimal Verma, AVSM was given impressive guard of honour at INS Utkrosh, the naval airbase of Andaman and Nicobar Islands this morning. Later Vice Admiral Pradeep Kumar Chatterjee, the 12th Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (CINCAN) and Indian Navy's senior most submariner was bid formal adieu from Andaman and Nicobar Command, in an impressive ceremony. Vice Admiral Pradeep Kumar Chatterjee, an alumnus of the Rashtriya Indian Military College, Dehra Dun and the National Defence Academy, Pune was commissioned into the Indian Navy on January 1, 1977. The Flag Officer has commanded ships as well as submarines, notable among them being the Type 1500 submarines and Guided Missile Destroyer INS Rajput. In his long and illustrious career, the Flag Officer has also walked through the portals of the Defence Services Staff College, Wellington, the College of Naval Warfare, Mumbai and the National Defence College, New Delhi. During his tenure as Commander-in-Chief, Andaman and Nicobar Command, which he assumed on January 1, 2014, he has set benchmarks which will now guide the next generation of leaders to emulate. Under his stewardship some notable achievements are; being the first responder with relief materials to Vishkapatnam, Eastern Naval Command, during cyclone HudHud, induction of two additional Mi 17V5 helicopters, Unmanned Arial Vehicle Operations from Port Blair and Carnic as also the maiden OTR of INS Chakra (Nuclear Powered Submarine). His efforts also resulted in night landings at Port Blair and revalidation of numerous Operating procedures at the Andaman Nicobar Command. His thrust area of infrastructure and accretions resulted in basing of Fast Interceptor Crafts in outlying Islands and construction of Operational Shelters at Kamorta, Neil and Hut Bay.UNI SKR BM RSA PR2316 -- (UNI) -- C-1-DL0214-614708.Xml The march in the Belgian capital was part of a coordinated day of action in 100 cities across Europe, from Albania to Norway, organised by citizens' rights groups calling for a safe passage for refugees seeking protection in Europe. Doctors Without Borders and Amnesty International were among the groups represented, RBTF reports, adding refugees also took part in the demonstration. Demonstrators carried survival blankets along the route of the march, which will be sent to the Greek islands, an entry point for refugees into European Union. --Indo-Asian News Service ahm/bg ( 122 Words) 2016-02-27-21:33:34 (IANS) Hong Kong residents voted in a legislative council by-election, with a "radical" pro-democracy candidate who was arrested in a recent riot running in what is being seen as a barometer of political tension in the financial hub.The poll, to fill a single seat vacated by a former pro-democracy politician, is being watched for signs of growing support for a burgeoning "indigenous" movement that backs more extreme protests, including violence, to push for greater democracy.Candidates from across the political spectrum contested the poll that was narrowly won by Alvin Yeung of the pro-democracy Civic Party, but most attention focused on Edward Leung, a leader of "Hong Kong Indigenous" and one of the first street activists to make a foray into mainstream politics.Leung placed third, after Yeung and Holden Chow, a candidate from the city's biggest pro-Beijing party, with about 15 per cent of the 432,000 votes cast, a surprisingly strong showing."We, the young generation, are determined to sacrifice ourselves for Hong Kong's future," Leung told Reuters on the campaign trail, as supporters held banners reading: "Vote for a revolution".Hong Kong, a former British colony that returned to Chinese rule in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula that gives it a high degree of autonomy, was rocked by massive protests in 2014 demanding Beijing's Communist Party leaders grant the city full democracy.Beijing's refusal of concessions has embittered a younger generation of activists, including Leung, who have pledged to fight on.Some of the tension surfaced this month, when hundreds of protesters clashed with police in a night-long riot. Leung was among the dozens arrested in the worst violence on Hong Kong's streets for years.While Leung did not ultimately win, his surprisingly strong showing, with 15 per cent of the overall vote, will be a concern for Beijing's Communist Party leaders, who call such indigenous groups "separatists".The results also reflect deep anti-China sentiment ahead of a full legislative council poll this year, pitting a pro-democracy camp that now enjoys a slender one-third veto bloc against pro-Beijing and pro-establishment parties."We have been called rioters, but these rioters have now won over 60,000 votes," Leung told reporters after the results. "In September, the entire indigenous movement will prepare to fight into Hong Kong's political sphere."Hong Kong risks seeing further chaos and political uncertainty is hurting the economy, financial secretary John Tsang warned in his budget speech last week.As one of Asia's safest cities, known for its strong rule of law passed down from the British, many in the affluent city of 7.3 million remain opposed to any radicalism."We need a stable environment," said a 67-year-old retired businessman, surnamed Chu, who voted for a pro-establishment candidate. "The (radicals) will add uncertainty to Hong Kong."REUTERS DS PR0709 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0137-613205.Xml An American student held in North Korea since early January has confessed to "severe crimes" against the state, North Korean state media said today.Otto Warmbier, 21, a student at the University of Virginia, was detained before boarding his flight to China over an unspecified incident at his hotel, his tour agency told Reuters in January."I committed the crime of taking out a political slogan from the staff-only area of the Yanggakdo International Hotel," state media quoted Warmbier as telling foreign and domestic media in Pyongyang, the North Korean capital, today.North Korea has a long history of detaining foreigners, and the US and Canadian governments advise against travel there.Pyongyang has in the past used detained US citizens to extract high-profile visits from the United States, with which it has no formal diplomatic relations. REUTERS PS PM0905 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0421-613234.Xml Japanese Deputy Foreign Minister Shinsuke Sugiyama met his Chinese counterpart Xuanyou Kong, marking the first high level diplomatic talks between the two countries since the Pyongyang regime carried out a nuclear test on January 6 and the following month launched a satellite aboard a rocket, EFE news reported. The meeting also comes after China and the US, both permanent members of the UN Security Council, agreed last week to draft tougher sanctions to punish North Korea for these actions. At the meeting, which comes shortly after Tokyo highlighted the impossibility of discussing over telephone with Beijing the recent arms tests carried out by North Korea, the two Deputy Foreign Ministers were also scheduled to address other regional issues. Kong had earlier said that China wants to hold a high level meeting with Japan to improve ties between the two countries, distanced by regional tensions. Relations between the two major powers in East Asia remain tensed because of the dispute surrounding the sovereignty of the Senkaku (Diaoyu in Chinese) Islands. Ties further deteriorated in recent weeks after Tokyo criticised Beijing's recent deployment of surface-to-air missile on an island in the South China Sea whose ownership is claimed by Vietnam. --Indo-Asian News Service ksk/dg ( 246 Words) 2016-02-29-12:55:33 (IANS) The incident took place in Lashkargah the capital of the province after a police vehicle struck a roadside mine, reports TOLO News. Officials at the hospital confirmed that the bodies of two police men had been taken to the hospital but they reported 11 civilians were injured. Local officials confirmed the blast but did not provide details about casualties. The Taliban has claimed responsibility for this explosion.(ANI) Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and US Secretary of State John Kerry spoke on the phone on Sunday about closer cooperation between their countries' militaries on the Syria ceasefire plan, Russia's Foreign Ministry said on Monday.The conversation was held at the initiative of the Russian side, the ministry said.Lavrov and Kerry also discussed coordinating their approaches to a draft UN Security Council resolution aimed at exerting pressure on North Korea for violating previous UN resolutions, the statement said. REUTERS PS PM1328 -- (Reuters) -- C-1-1-DL0421-613595.Xml The book, Khalid Khawaja: Shaheed-i-Aman, is authored by Shamama Khalid, the wife of former ISI operative Khalid Khawaja, reports Dawn. 'Chief of PML-N Mohammad Nawaz Sharif received funding from Osama Bin Laden, founder of Al-Qaeda, to contest elections against Benazir Bhutto's led Pakistan People's Party (PPP) after the end of Zia regime,' the book states. The book claims that Sharif's pledge of introducing an Islamic system attracted Laden. But even though the Al Qaeda head honcho funded Sharif heavily, the latter backtracked from all his promises after coming into power. The book also carries a note from former ISI director general, retired Lt-General Hamid Gul, which also claims that Khawaja was very close to Nawaz Sharif for some time. The book claims that Abdullah Azzam introduced Khawaja to Bin Laden. Azzam, who is also known as the 'father of global jihad', was a Palestinian Sunni. Azzam raised funds and recruited jihadis from the Arab world, known as Afghan Arabs. A mentor of Bin Laden, he is said to have persuaded him to come to Afghanistan. The book alleged that the Indian intelligence agency, Research and Analysis Wing (RAW) and the US Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) were behind the killing of Khawaja and Col Imam.(ANI) Dates for the upcoming SAARC summit in Islamabad are being worked out in consultation with member states said Fatemi. The summit will probably be held in November, reports Dawn. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to attend the summit," he added. Pakistan has proposed to host the 19th SAARC Summit in Islamabad in November 2016. Further, Fatemi said a five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) formed to probe the January 2 terror attack on Pathankot airbase will complete its work this week. The Punjab government had last week formed the JIT to investigate the Pathankot airbase attack case, which was registered a week earlier in Gujranwala.(ANI) Ring-shaped, five-dimensional black holes could break Einstein's theory of general relativity, new research suggests. There's a catch, of course. These 5D "black rings" don't exist, as far as anyone can tell. Instead, the new theoretical model may point out one reason why we live in a four-dimensional universe: Any other option could be a hot mess. "Here we may have a first glimpse that four space-time dimensions is a very, very good choice, because otherwise, something pretty bad happens in the universe," said Ulrich Sperhake, a theoretical physicist at the University of Cambridge in England. [8 Ways You Can See Einstein's Theory of Relativity in Real Life] Doomed from the start From the beginning, Einstein's theory of general relativity, which describes how matter warps space-time, predicted its own demise. That demise came in the form of singularities, or infinitely curved portions of space-time in which the laws of physics break down, said study co-author Markus Kunesch, an applied mathematics and theoretical physics doctoral candidate at the University of Cambridge. But in a kind of lucky save, Einstein's theory predicts these singularities exist only behind the event horizons of black holes, from which no matter can escape. "Even though you have a singularity, it's pretty nicely contained in a high-security lunatic asylum, and it cannot affect anything on the outside," Sperhake, who was not involved in the current study, told Live Science. "This means that general relativity is still perfectly able to explain the entire evolution of the entire universe outside this tiny singularity." The notion of safely contained singularities, dubbed the cosmic censorship theorem, has held up everywhere in the universe where people have looked. Naked black holes But Kunesch and fellow University of Cambridge researchers Pau Figueras and Saran Tunyasuvunakool wanted to probe the limits of the cosmic censorship theorem. They took a look at bizarre proposed black holes that researchers had dreamed up about 15 years ago. Story continues In the past, researchers had proposed a mathematical description of these black rings. However, no one had been able to simulate how they would behave under general relativity. It turned out that, in five dimensions, "naked singularities" would be sitting outside black holes, the team reported in a study published Feb. 18 in the journal Physical Review Letters. That, in turn, would imply that Einstein's theory of relativity would completely break down throughout the universe, not just in black holes. That doesn't mean Einstein's theory is wrong. Relativity has passed every single test it's faced. "It is an incredibly amazing theory. It has predicted a lot of new things," Kunesch told Live Science. (Physicists recently discovered one of the last remaining predictions of relativity when they detected gravitational waves formed from the smashup of two black holes 1.3 billion years ago.) For one, it's extremely unlikely that these relativity-breaking black holes exist. For that to be true, there would have to be extra dimensions. While some theories, such as string theory, do predict the existence of 11 or even 27 extra dimensions, these higher dimensions would be teensy, rolled-up specks far different from the vanilla, ordinary-size dimensions that we live in, and that black rings were conceived in, Sperhake said. [5 Reasons We May Live in a Multiverse] The Goldilocks of universes The findings add to the notion that the universe occupies a sweet spot in terms of its physical properties, Sperhake said. If the gravity had been stronger, our universe would have collapsed soon after the Big Bang. If the gravity had been weaker, no stars could have formed. If the electromagnetism had been slightly different, the chemistry would have gone wonky, Sperhake said. Now, it seems as if the number of dimensions of space-time should be added to the list: If there were any more, the future behavior of the universe couldn't be predicted, at least not by Einstein's theory, he said. The new results also shine a light in some of the dark, unexplored nooks and crannies of Einstein's groundbreaking theory, Kunesch said. "It's quite remarkable that, more than 100 years after Einstein's theory was written down, we still don't fully understand what solutions to Einstein's equations look like," Kunesch said. "We still need to establish whether it is completely consistent theoretically. There are still lots of open questions, both on the theoretical level but also on the more experimental level." Follow Tia Ghose on Twitterand Google+. Follow Live Science @livescience, Facebook & Google+. Original article on Live Science. Copyright 2016 LiveScience, a Purch company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Cape Town (AFP) - A woman accused of kidnapping a newborn baby and raising her as her own child for 17 years wept in a South African court Monday as she described her arrest. It was the first time the 50-year-old woman, who has pleaded not guilty, had shown emotion in the week-long trial in the Western Cape High Court. She was arrested on February 26 last year after DNA tests had shown that she was not the baby's biological mother, and she was barred from seeing the girl again. "That was the last time I saw her," she said, before her face crumpled and she sobbed. Outside the court, the kidnapped girl's biological father, Morne Nurse, told reporters: "The emotion she is feeling now, we've been feeling for 18 years." The accused woman cannot be named to protect the identity of the kidnapped girl, who requested protection from the international media over the sensational case. Last week, the girl's mother, Celeste Nurse, 36, told how she woke up in the maternity ward to find her three-day-old baby had vanished from the cot by her side on March 30 1997. The Nurse family was reunited with their daughter -- whom they had named Zephany -- in February last year after an astonishing coincidence. When a younger daughter of the Nurses began attending high school, pupils pointed out her remarkable likeness to a final year student. The younger girl told her parents, who met the older girl and immediately believed she was their long-lost baby. They called the police, and DNA tests confirmed that the girl was indeed Zephany. Local reports suggest that the trauma of the case led the girl to drop out of her final year of school and that the 18-year-old is now living with her boyfriend. Morne Nurse told AFP outside the court that her biological parents had "a bit of contact still" with Zephany, but would not comment further. The accused kidnapper told the court that after a miscarriage in December 1996 she paid a woman who promised to find her a child to adopt. Story continues In early April 1997 she was handed a baby wrapped in a blanket at a train station in Cape Town, she said. She had not told her husband of her miscarriage, so presented the baby to him as their own child, she said. She was not cross-examined on her evidence as the prosecutor was unavailable, and the case was postponed by Judge John Hlophe until next Monday. She faces a minimum of five years in jail if convicted of kidnapping. Dubai (AFP) - Amnesty International called Monday for an arms embargo on all warring parties in Yemen, including the Saudi-led coalition battling Iran-backed rebels, ahead of an Arms Trade Treaty meeting in Geneva. The rights watchdog said it has documented violations of humanitarian and human rights law, including possible war crimes, by both sides since the Yemen conflict broadened in March last year. "Amnesty International is urging all states to ensure that no party to the conflict in Yemen is supplied - either directly or indirectly - with weapons, munitions, military equipment or technology that would be used in the conflict until they end such serious violations," it said in a statement. The group called "for any authorisation of arms transfers to any party to the Yemen conflict to include a strict, legally binding guarantee that the end use will be in line with international humanitarian and human rights law, and that such arms transfers will not be used in Yemen", it said. "The embargo call goes far beyond existing international sanctions on parties to the conflict in Yemen," it added. UN Security Council Resolution 2216, adopted in April last year, imposed an arms embargo only on the Huthi rebels and their allies, forces loyal to former president Ali Abdullah Saleh, it said. A non-binding European Parliament resolution adopted on February 25 "called for the EU to seek to impose an arms embargo on Saudi Arabia, but not other parties to the conflict", Amnesty added. But Amnesty said it "is not calling for a total ban on coalition members acquiring arms lawfully for legitimate uses outside Yemen - for example, arms used for the protection of humanitarian aid or participation in peacekeeping operations". The United Nations warned this month of a "human catastrophe unfolding in Yemen", where it says more than 6,100 people had been killed in the fighting since last March. Story continues It says another 3,000 people had been wounded and 2.5 million people forced to flee their homes. In March 2015, Saudi Arabia began leading a military campaign against the Shiite rebels and their allies in its southern neighbour. The Arms Trade Treaty, an accord laying down international rules for the global arms trade, entered into force in December 2014. It compels countries to set up national controls on arms exports. States must assess whether an exported weapon could circumvent an international embargo, be used for genocide and war crimes, or be used by "terrorists" and organised crime. K-cups might not have much of a future on Earth: Hamburg just banned the coffee pods and even their inventor thinks their bad for the environment. But now theres demand for similar pods in outer space. For years, astronauts have suffered through a very sad caffeine-intake ritual. Their only coffee option was freeze dried, which they would mix with hot water and sip from a pouch. But now they can drink fresh, hot coffee in a cup. Its all thanks to Drew Wollman, a Portland State University Ph.D. candidate in mechanical engineering, who successfully designed a really crazy-looking space mug that brews fresh coffee in zero gravity. So, how does it work? Astronauts fill a large syringe with hot water, screw it onto the mug, then inject the water into a K-Cup-like pod and over the grounds. The coffee seeps through a filter and flows into the mugwhere, amazingly, it stays thanks to the narrow spout and wide bottom. As Popular Science explains, Take a sip at the spout, where the fluids creep through a combination of microgravity and capillary forces, and the drink flows itself into your mouth. And when your nose positioned right over the top of the cup, youre able to smell what you drink. Sounds great, but now Wollman needs to invent a zero-gravity burr grinder. [h/t Eater] WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Attorney General Loretta Lynch said on Monday that she hopes Apple Inc. will still comply with the court order by a federal judge in California to unlock the iPhone used by one of the San Bernardino shooters. "It is still our hope that they will see their way clear to complying with that order as thousands of other companies do every day," Lynch said in an interview with Fox News. Asked about the FBI's investigation into Hillary Clinton's emails, Lynch said the investigation would be done independently and refused to disclose information. Lynch said no one outside the Justice Department, even at the White House, has been briefed on the case. Lynch, who has been in the job as the United States' top law enforcer since April 2015, waived off rumors that she might be nominated to the Supreme Court to replace late Justice Antonin Scalia. "I haven't had those conversations. I'm very happy with my job," Lynch repeated twice. (Reporting by Julia Edwards; Editing by Chris Reese and Andrew Hay) By Colin Packham SYDNEY (Reuters) - Australia's agriculture production is set to rebound as the strongest El Nino in nearly 20 years that wilted crops and triggered bush fires subsides, the country's chief commodity forecaster said on Tuesday. Production of staples such as wheat, cotton and milk are all set to rise during the 2016/17 season, according to the Australian Bureau of Agriculture, Resource Economics and Rural Sciences (ABARES), although beef output in the world's third-largest exporter is set to fall due to low supplies. Australian farmers are expected to sow a near record amount of wheat in the next few months, the bureau said, with global production set to remain at high levels despite benchmark prices falling to a more than 5-1/2 year low last week. Increased plantings and an expected improvement in seasonal conditions are forecast to produce a crop of 24.5 million tonnes, which would be a three-year high. Australia, the world's fourth-largest wheat exporter, produced 24.2 million tonnes in 2015/16. "Farmers in Australia have been insulated by the fall in [Australian] dollar, while the depreciation of South American currencies will also incentivize farmers to boost production," said Phin Ziebell, agribusiness economist, National Australia Bank. Elsewhere, Australian canola production is set to rise 11 percent to 3.27 million tonnes in the 2016/17 season, ABARES said. The increased production will meet firmer European demand, the bureau said, which comes as China pushes for tougher standards on canola imports from Australia that could curb shipments to that country. Australian cotton production is set to rise 50 percent, it said. Production will hit 816,000 tonnes in 2016/17, up from 546,000 tonnes a year earlier when drought deprived farmers of much needed irrigation. Sugar production is also set to benefit from the improved weather. ABARES pegged output in the world's third largest raw sugar exporter at 5.08 million tonnes in 2016/17, up 6 percent. Milk production will rise to 9.82 million litres, ABARES said, up from 9.6 million litres in 2015/16. However, Australian beef production is set to fall to a three-year low as farmers rebuild their stocks after the size of national herd fell to at least a two-decade low. Output surged in the last two years as farmers sent stock for slaughter after drought wilted pasture and dried out dams. ABARES put beef exports at 2.16 million tonnes in 2015/16, down 10 percent from the previous year. (Reporting by Colin Packham; Editing by Richard Pullin) Theres some bad news for Hillary Clinton amidst her dominating victory in South Carolinas first in the South primary Saturday. Clintons pummeling of rival Bernie Sanders by 50 points overshadowed a worrisome data point for her campaign and the party come November: turnout among the states heavily black electorate was down by nearly one-third compared to 2008. Nobody expected the race between the white former secretary of state and white senator of Vermont to attract the same number of Democratic voters in the Palmetto state as the race between Clinton and Barack Obama eight years ago, when voters had the chance to make history by nominating the first black man for president. That year, more than 530,000 people voted in the Democratic primary, more than half of them African Americans. But the 2016 Democratic nominee also cannot afford to see the kind of drop off in black votes that occurred in the 2010 and 2014 midterms, which saw Republicans surge into control of Congress. South Carolina was the first real test of how African American voters respond to the post-Obama era. And for Democrats, the outcome should come as a warning sign. Although the exit polls showed black voters made up a larger proportion of the people voting in Saturdays primary (61 percent) compared to 2008 (55 percent), overall there were simply less people voting -- a lot less. The contest attracted less than 369,000 voters , down more than 160,000 from eight years ago. That has major implications for Democrats hopes in November. African Americans made up 13 percent of the presidential electorate in 2008 and 2012 and Barack Obama won more than 90 percent of that vote against a white, male Republican each time. That and a sizable edge with Hispanics helped the president offset double-digit losses among white voters and still win comfortably. In all the polls leading into Saturdays election, Clinton held a sizable edge over Sanders, whose home state of Vermont is more than 90 percent white. Her double-digit lead in the polls, as well as the fact that Sanders virtually conceded the contest, spending most of the week campaigning elsewhere, may have dampened voters motivation. In 2008, Clinton and Obama were running neck-and-neck and the emotions were running high. Former President Bill Clinton, Hillarys husband, seemed to suggest that Obamas campaign was based on fantasy, which angered many black voters. Story continues The drop off in number in 2016 also, however, appears to affirm warnings from some civil rights leaders, who say the candidates are still not connecting with black voters. With Democrats South Carolina primary and the 11 states voting on Super Tuesday, we are going to begin to see the presence of people of color in big numbers at the polls, veteran civil rights activist Reverend Al Sharpton said Thursday in Washington, D.C. Speaking at the liberal think tank the Center for American Progress, Sharpton observed that In the states that are going to decide the nomination and the general election, critical states like Florida, like Ohio, like Pennsylvania, like Michigan, all of those states have critical blocs of black and Latino voters. The question is whether they come out to vote and whether they stay on long lines to vote given impediments to vote. For the Democratic campaigns relying on those voters, that means, youve got to not only register them, youve got to inspire them. 227_ClintonSouthCarolinaPrimary Jonathan Ernst/REUTERS Clinton has made a concerted effort to appeal to those voters, talking early and repeatedly about issues that are priorities to the black community. One of the first major speeches of her campaign focused on voting rights and Republicans attempts to curb access to the ballot box. After an early faux pas last summer, saying all lives matter when talking about the #BlackLivesMatter movement, shes been outspoken about the need for criminal justice reform and problems of systemic racism. She was the first candidate to raise the Flint water crisis on the national stage, bringing it up during Democrats Jan. 17 debate . Yet her campaign has struggled to marshal the same enthusiasm that Sanders supporters have shown, and certainly that Obamas coalition of supporters demonstrated four and eight years ago. Black voters could be her difference-makers on that front, but theyre not there yet, even if they prefer her over the alternatives. In Democrats Nevada caucuses, which took place last weekend, turnout was down by about a third compared compared to 2008. And while Clinton won black voters by a wide margin, according to exit polls , theres dispute about how she fared with Latinos , who skew much younger in Nevada. Voters 44 and younger backed Sanders by a wide margin there, including many Latino voters -- entrance and exit polls suggest he won that Latinos thanks to the youth vote. Republicans, in contrast, are enjoying some of their biggest turnout numbers in more than a decade. In 2008, for example, more than 430,000 people voted in South Carolinas GOP primary. The party almost doubled that number in its Palmetto State primary earlier this month, with turnout climbing to 741,000 . Voting has also been up markedly in the three prior primaries and caucuses. That makes it all the more critical for Democrats to turn out their base in November. But Sharpton said in D.C. Thursday that Democrats still have a ways to go. In his interactions with voters around the country -- in person and those calling in to his radio program -- people are saying that, Im not hearing things that mean something to me, personally. I wanted to make a statement with Barack Obama, I wanted to be there to elect the first black president, I wanted to be there to turn the country around, but whats is in it for me? That is the challenge of this election, Sharpton said. Saturdays results suggest it will certainly be a challenge for Democrats. The multitude of diverse states -- Colorado, Texas, Georgia, Tennessee -- voting Tuesday will confirm just how big the challenge is. Related Articles Dhaka (AFP) - Bangladesh on Monday called up opening batsman Tamim Iqbal for the remaining part of the Asia Cup as a replacement for pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who was ruled out with injury. Team physio Bayjedul Islam said Mustafizur complained of discomfort after Sunday's match against Sri Lanka and an MRI scan and a report from the radiologist confirmed a strain on a right rib. "He is under conservative treatment and rest for next 48 hours. Following that the rehab will begin," Islam said in statement. "We are expecting that he will make a quick recovery and resume bowling soon." Mustafizur played a key role in Bangladesh's 23-run win over Sri Lanka with four tight overs for just 19 runs. He also took the vital wicket of all-rounder Thisara Perera. Tamim, who is a regular member of the side, was allowed to skip the Asia Cup to be with his wife, who gave birth to a baby boy in Bangkok on Sunday. Tamim returned home on Monday and joined the training camp. Bangladesh will face Pakistan in their last league match of the tournament on Wednesday. The hosts, who have four points from three matches, will qualify for the March 6 final if they can beat Pakistan in the last match. Dismissed as a fringe candidate of the left, few experts gave the insurgent Vermonter much of a chance when he entered the presidential race. Dinged as a "single-issue" candidate, he looked unlikely to assemble the broad coalition necessary to capture the Democratic nomination. Even paid staffers had a hard time seeing how their boss would overcome the daunting odds particularly with the forces of the Democratic Party establishment arrayed against them. Bernie Sanders 2016? No Howard Dean 2004. After Sanders' landslide loss to Hillary Clinton in Saturday's South Carolina primary which comes on the heels of a demoralizing defeat in last weekend's Nevada caucuses the senator looks more and more unlikely to escape the fate that bedeviled Dean's anti-war insurgency a dozen years ago, when the former Vermont governor surged to the front of the pack before fizzling in the Iowa caucuses. An uphill slog: While both men exceeded expectations by igniting the passions of a restive Democratic base, they've also run up against the brutal realities of campaigning against opponents who have spent years or even decades building ties to party elites, voters and financial bigwigs. "All insurgents start with the idea that they're probably not going to win, but damn it, we're going to make a run at getting our issues out there," Joe Trippi, Dean's campaign manager and a veteran Democratic operative, told Mic. "And then there's always that moment when you start to get enough momentum and coverage and money that you cross the line and start to realize for the first time, maybe we can win this thing." "The problem with all insurgencies," Trippi said, "is that it's just a reality: You're building the entire plane literally as it's rolling down the runway." Story continues Bernie's game plan: Here's how Sanders hopes, nevertheless, to achieve takeoff. Sanders' campaign hopes to flip the script of the Democratic contest on Super Tuesday this week. Of the 11 states that vote on March 1, the senator stands a good chance of winning five. Vermont is in the bag; polls show Sanders leading Clinton by a whopping 75 percentage points in his home state. In neighboring Massachusetts, the latest surveys indicate that Sanders is either tied with Clinton or slightly ahead of her. A win there wouldn't just award Sanders a large chunk of its 91 pledged delegates; like New Hampshire, it would also allow him to boast that he'd picked up a state Clinton won over Barack Obama in 2008. Colorado and Minnesota both states with strongly progressive Democratic electorates should also be fertile ground for Sanders. Public polling of the two states has been sparse, but the 2008 caucus results give Sanders hope: Obama trounced Clinton by 34 points in the Colorado caucuses, the same margin by which he defeated her in Minnesota. A large turnout in the two states particularly in college towns like Boulder and Minneapolis-St. Paul would be an encouraging sign for Sanders. Then there's rock-ribbed Oklahoma hardly the kind of state you might expect a 74-year-old Jewish socialist to target. But a recent Public Policy Polling survey of the Sooner State showed Sanders statistically tied with Clinton there, and despite its strong Republican lean in general elections, Oklahoma has a history of vibrant left-wing activism. In the early 20th century, the Socialist Party gained a major foothold there, with its gubernatorial candidate winning 20% of the vote in 1914. Later in the century, Oklahomans sent Fred Harris, a liberal populist, to the United States Senate. So while conservative Republicans now have a monopoly on both state and federal politics in the state, Sanders is tapping into a strain of Oklahoma history that may reap dividends on Tuesday. A reality check: Say Sanders wins all five states on Tuesday, effectively splitting that day's nominating contests with Clinton. On the surface, that seems like quite the dramatic improvement over the ominous headlines that greeted his defeats in Nevada and South Carolina. What's more, few Southern contests will remain after March 1 meaning that the race will then turn to territory where the demographic and ideological makeup of Democratic voters is more hospitable to Sanders. There's one big problem, though: Relative to where he needs to be in order to overtake Clinton in the delegate count, Sanders is badly underperforming in those friendly states. Exhibit A: Sanders couldn't win Iowa a state that's nearly 90% non-Hispanic white, and where Democrats lean strongly to the left. "If Sanders was ever going to win anywhere, Iowa was one of those states," Democratic strategist Mary Anne Marsh told Mic in a recent interview. Statistics guru Nate Silver concurred. Analyzing states by demographic data at FiveThirtyEight, Silver calculated that Sanders should have trounced Clinton by 19 percentage points in the Hawkeye State. Instead, he lost to her by 0.2 points. Even Sanders' 22-point New Hampshire rout was probably too close for comfort: According to Silver's figures, Sanders should have beaten Clinton by 32 points in the Granite State. Looking ahead to states that have yet to vote, Silver's data underscores that Sanders needs to do more than just defeat Clinton in targeted states; he needs to swamp her. On Super Tuesday, for instance, Silver calculated that Sanders needs to win Minnesota by 21 points and Massachusetts and Colorado by 11 points. Polling data indicates that Sanders is well short of those margins. Post-Super Tuesday, Sanders must also hold off Clinton in a number of large, delegate-rich states. Silver's numbers show that he needs to narrow beat Clinton in Michigan on March 8, effectively tie her in Ohio and Missouri a week later and then score narrow wins in Pennsylvania and New York in April. California's June primary also ought to be roughly a draw, Silver's numbers state. In all states, Sanders currently trails Clinton badly in the polls. Abandon all hope? This is not to say that Sanders might as well pack up and go home. Sanders can afford to win states like Massachusetts and Minnesota by smaller-than-optimal margins if he can give Clinton a run for her money among nonwhite voters leading her to underperform in states where she's expected to dominate. But the results in South Carolina underscore what a tall order this will prove. Despite a concerted effort to appeal to African-American voters, and weeks of rising visibility thanks to his near-victory in Iowa and his landslide win in New Hampshire, Sanders lost black voters by 68 percentage points. It'll be difficult for Sanders to avoid similarly lopsided defeats in other states. "Had they had the resources and visibility they have [now] and if they were making the arguments they're trying to make now a year ago," Trippi told Mic, we might be looking at an entirely different race. Given the realities of political insurgencies, though, Sanders will struggle "to connect or break into her stronger constituencies," he added. "It's the problem of coming from where they were coming from, probably not thinking they had a chance," Trippi said. Bernie Sanders at his June campaign launch, when few predicted he'd give Hillary Clinton a run for her money. But Sanders has the resources and the incentive to remain in the race through the final contests in June, even if his odds of defeating Clinton are long. The more delegates he can accrue, the more clout he and his supporters will have in shaping both the Democratic Party's platform and the personnel and policy decisions a President Hillary Clinton would make. For a long-shot candidate who was polling the single digits when he launched his bid last spring, that's a victory of its own. Watching Sanders' trajectory, Trippi can't help but think of his own experience on the Dean campaign. "After you are in a big insurgency like that, at the end of it, it was the greatest experience of your life," he told Mic. "The next words out of your mouth are, 'Please God, don't ever let me do that again.'" La Paz (AFP) - Bolivia's President Evo Morales appealed Monday for access to a son born out of wedlock to an ex-girlfriend who is now at the center of a corruption scandal shaking his administration. Morales had previously acknowledged fathering a child with Gabriela Zapata during a two year affair but claims she had told him the infant died shortly after birth. But in a twist worthy of a telenovela, Zapata's aunt revealed last week that the child was not dead, but alive and well. "I ask the family of Gabriela Zapata, to bring him to me, I am waiting, I want to hold him, if they will let me," Morales said. "I have a right to see him, to know him, to care for him." The 28-year-old Zapata, meanwhile, is in prison on orders of a prosecutor investigating allegations she used her influence with Morales on behalf of a Chinese engineering group, CAMC, which obtained $560 million in government contracts. She faces charges of money laundering, embezzlement and abuse of influence, prosecutor Edwin Blanco said Sunday. Zapata, who until recently was a senior manager at CAMC, entered into a relationship with Morales in 2005 when she was 18 years old. Morales, who is 56, said it ended two years later. He has said their child would now be eight or nine years old. "Evidently there was a divergence over the death of the baby. I believed in the words and the information provided by the mother of my son," he told reporters at the Quemado presidential palace. "I don't think they told me falsely that the baby had died," he said. He warned that if Zapata's family did not produce the child, he would be obliged to go to the courts to demand an investigation. A reporter's bombshell disclosure last month of the previously unpublicized relationship set off an investigation into influence peddling just weeks before Bolivia was to vote on whether to change the constitution to allow Morales to run for a fourth term. Story continues The February 21 referendum was the first electoral defeat for Morales, who has been re-elected three times and already is Bolivia's longest serving president. A congressional committee is investigating the contracts awarded to CAMC, and opposition members of congress have called for Morales and Zapata to testify. Press reports have alleged that as a CAMC manager, Zapata wrote letters to government agencies seeking contracts on behalf of the Chinese contractor. The opposition accuses Morales of favoring Zapata, and insists their relationship lasted at least until 2015, despite Morales' denials. Voters in about a dozen states head to the polls tomorrow to help select the next presidential nominees in a ritual called Super Tuesday. So how did we get this primary season free-for-all and why does it matter? The last question is the easiest to answer. On March 1, 2016, about 22 percent of all convention delegates for the Democrats and 25 percent for the Republicans will be picked on the same day. No other primary election day in the 2016 cycle has the bulk of delegates, although March 15 and June 7 are other dates with a lot of delegates at stake. But Super Tuesday, through several generations of tradition, has taken on its own legendary personality, with campaigns made or broken on the national stage. An early Super Tuesday of note was in 1976, when six primaries were held on Tuesday, May 25, with Gerald Ford and Ronald Reagan each taking three states in the Republican race. In the 1980 campaign, seven primaries and caucuses were held on March 11, 1980. But at the time, the name Super Tuesday was also used to describe the final Tuesday of the primary season in June, when a key group of states that included California and New Jersey cast votes. The 1984 campaign was seen as starting the modern movement toward a more sweeping Super Tuesday in March using a concept known as frontloading the primaries. Nine states were in play on March 13, 1984, as Walter Mondale took Georgia and survived the loss of seven states to Gary Hart to remain in the presidential campaign and get the nomination at the Democratic national convention. Four years later, the event was being called the Southern Super Tuesday as 21 states, mostly from the South, had elections on March 8, 1988. For the Democrats, Michael Dukakis managed to win five states despite his liberal, New England heritage. The Dukakis showing blunted any effort for a regional candidate to leverage his connections. Bill Clinton then became the first Southern candidate to take advantage of a grouping of Southern primaries in 1992, sweeping the South on Super Tuesday and completing a comeback that had started in New Hampshire. Story continues The 1996 Super Tuesday was dominated by Bob Dole in the Republican races, and in 2000, George W. Bush and Al Gore took part in a March 7, 2000 Super Tuesday that featured California and New York; both candidates cemented their front-runner status with strong performances. In 2004, John Kerry took nine of 10 Super Tuesday contests in March to lock up the Democratic nomination. The contentious 2008 election saw 24 states move their primaries to Tuesday, February 5, in an effort to sort out the front runners early by putting about half of the delegates in play on the same election day. Instead, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton would up in a virtual delegate deadlock for the Democrats. The GOP front runner, John McCain, was able to gain enough delegates to force his top rival, Mitt Romney, from the race. Romney had his revenge in 2012, when he used a strong March Super Tuesday showing to keep him momentum, leaving him with one final candidate, Rick Santorum, to contend with for another month. This year, Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton will try to use Super Tuesday, followed by the March 15 primaries, to end the primary season early. The Republican Party has 12 states in play on Super Tuesday, representing about 25 percent of all delegates sent to the GOP convention. The GOP uses a mixed set of rules to select delegates in a winner-take-most, and in a proportional fashion. For the Democrats, about 22 percent of all convention delegates are selected for the national convention on Super Tuesday, with 11 states, American Samoa and overseas delegates in play. By March 16, about 50 percent of the Democratic delegates and 60 percent of the Republican delegates will have been at stake in primary elections and caucuses. Recent Stories on Constitution Daily Podcast: The 14th Amendment and the NAACP Legal Defense Fund Video: Political spin and presidential campaigns Explaining the Super Tuesday primaries: The Republicans By Alastair Macdonald BRUSSELS (Reuters) - As Britons prepare to vote in a June referendum on whether to stay in the European Union, some of the argument turns on the significance of a package of EU reforms secured by Prime Minister David Cameron. Cameron insists he has negotiated a radical reshaping of Britain's place in the EU, a "special status". Critics at home, including members of his own Conservative government, say the deal was insubstantial -- a view echoed by some EU leaders. As with much Brussels diplomacy, the negotiation involved not only narrowing differences so that all could agree on a compromise text but governments presenting the deal in often diametrically contradictory ways to their home audiences. A senior diplomat from one of Britain's major EU partners poured scorn on the agreement, expressing the frustration many in Brussels feel at the effort spent solving what they view as an internal Conservative Party feud that has endangered the Union and which the deal may ultimately do little to resolve. "This whole thing is just a repetitive series of selective tautologies," the senior diplomat said. "It's all in the treaties already ... Though we are not repeating the whole treaties, just those parts which are pleasing to British ears." Examples of that in the agreement struck on Feb. 19 include the repetition of Britain's right not to adopt the euro currency or the assurance that a commitment to "ever closer union" in the EU treaties does not oblige Britain to give up more sovereignty. But EU officials who worked to produce the compromise -- under the fearful pressure that failure could see the Union undermined by the departure of such an important member state -- reject the view that it is a mere political charade. Real legal heft is to be found, they argue, in that very selectivity of the "repetitions and tautologies" noted by its detractors. "Some have an interest in presenting it in that way," said a senior EU official involved in crafting the deal. "But (the description) is not adequate ... The jurisprudence covers a wide area ... This is a very selective repetition." Essentially, by emphasizing some parts of existing treaties and secondary EU legislation, as well as legal precedents set by past decisions of the European Court of Justice, EU leaders -- "the fathers and mothers of the treaty", in the official's words -- are giving future guidance for the constitutional judges. "And so we change the course of the supertanker," the senior official told Reuters. London-based think-tank Open Europe criticized the deal and EU leaders for failing to adopt more ambitious, EU-wide reforms. However, directors Raoul Ruparel and Stephen Booth wrote: "It is not transformative, but neither is it trivial. It is the largest single shift in a member state's position within the EU." The EU official said: "It is constructed by taking things from existing law. But the totality does change the course of the Union, and in that way it is helpful to the Brits. "It does ... contribute substantially to changing the course of the Union in certain areas." Five Cambodian fishermen have been arrested for a brutal attack on a group of French tourists in which two women were raped at knifepoint on an isolated Thai beach, police said Monday. It is the latest high profile assault on foreign visitors in Thailand, a country that is hugely reliant on its lucrative tourist trade. Investigators said four French holidaymakers were attacked late Saturday on Koh Kut (also known as Koh Kood), an underdeveloped island close to Cambodia's western border with Thailand. Police said the attackers allegedly swam from their fishing boat to assault the group. Two injured male victims escaped to raise the alarm. When locals and police reached the scene the five attackers ran off but were swiftly apprehended, police major general Nopparat Rinthaphol told AFP. "They (the attackers) all confessed and police have already brought them to do a re-enactment," he added, referring to a common police technique where the accused replay their crimes for investigators, usually in front of the media. Thailand's Channel 7 television broadcast images of angry locals trying to attack the men during the re-enactment on Monday. The alleged assailants have all been charged with rape and violent assault while the victims have been taken to hospital on the mainland. The French embassy said it had sent officials to be with them. Thailand remains an enormously popular tourist destination with more than 28 million people visiting last year, a record high. The December to February period, when the tropical climate is cooler, is peak tourist season. But a number of grisly and violent crimes against foreigners has sullied the country's reputation as a tourist haven. In September two Myanmar migrant workers were sentenced to death for the 2013 murder of two British backpackers, one of whom was raped, on the diving island of Koh Tao after a controversial investigation and trial. Thai authorities insist the two men are guilty. But the defence team believes the pair have been scapegoated by a local police force desperate to get results. Story continues Tourism remains one of the few bright spots in the Thai economy accounting for at least 10 percent of GDP. The junta-led country posted a lacklustre growth rate of just 2.8 percent last year, one of the lowest in the region with analysts saying much of that growth came from tourism. Given just how many people visit Thailand, the kingdom remains a relatively safe destination with violent attacks still rare. Instead it is the less headline-grabbing scourge of traffic accidents that claims far more tourist lives. In a 2015 study on global road safety the World Health Organization found Thailand had the world's second most dangerous roads with 36.2 fatalities per 100,000 people. Only Libya's road fatality rate was higher. By Kylie MacLellan LONDON (Reuters) - Prime Minister David Cameron's renegotiation of Britain's relationship with the European Union might not have done enough to persuade undecided voters to back staying in the bloc, the nationalist leader of Scotland said on Monday. Cameron, who is campaigning for an 'In' vote at a June 23 referendum, has said a deal reached with the EU earlier this month addresses voters' key concerns with the bloc through measures such as curbing EU migrants' access to some welfare payments in Britain. But pro-EU Scottish National Party (SNP) leader Nicola Sturgeon, who heads Scotland's devolved government, said renegotiation was "too grand a word" for what Cameron had achieved. "Nothing in that was going to change my view as someone who wants to stay in, nothing in it was going to change the view of an arch Eurosceptic who wants out of Europe come what may," she said during a question session after a speech in London. "The danger is for those perhaps in the middle ground who were looking to that to try and make up their mind, it is an inevitable disappointment, because it didn't live up to what was promised." Sturgeon said she hoped the vote would result in an "overwhelming" victory for the 'In' camp, but while she would be campaigning on the same side as Cameron, she did not plan to share a platform with him. "We want the same outcome from slightly different perspectives ... if he appeals to people who agree with him and I appeal to people who agree with me then we will maximize the vote for staying in," she said. Scots rejected independence by 55-45 percent in 2014 vote but since then the SNP has gained further strength, taking 56 of the 59 seats representing Scotland in the national parliament in London in last May's election. Polls show a majority of the 5 million Scots back staying in the EU, and Sturgeon repeated her claim that if Scotland were taken out of the bloc against its will there would be a rising "clamor" for a second independence referendum. If that were to happen, Sturgeon said she was confident Scotland could remain a member if the EU. "I would expect that many people in the European Union and across Europe would want to see Scotland seek to stay in," she said. (editing by Michael Holden) Montreal (AFP) - Canada's chances in their upcoming Davis Cup clash with France have suffered a severe blow after Milos Raonic and Daniel Nestor were ruled out with injuries, Tennis Canada confirmed on Monday. Raonic, the world number 13, has been sidelined by an adductor tear suffered at the Australian Open. Doubles stalwart Nestor withdrew from the team to travel to Guadeloupe for personal reasons, a statement said. "I am deeply saddened to not be able to join my team for the Davis Cup tie in Guadeloupe," said Raonic. "Davis Cup has always been and will continue to be a priority in my schedule. My body at this moment does not allow me to compete as the muscular tear I sustained in Australia has not completely healed." Nestor, meanwhile, will miss a Davis Cup tie for only the second time in 15 years. "I'm disappointed that I can't be there with the team this week," said Nestor. "The last few years we've come a long way and we've had some good opportunities to do well at Davis Cup and it's definitely frustrating that we haven't been able to field our top team and maximize our potential due to some of the injuries and unforeseen circumstances that have arisen." "I'm wishing the team the best of luck this weekend and will be looking forward to rejoining them for the next one." Canada captain Martin Laurendeau will name two replacement players at a later date. This week's tie is taking place on outdoor clay at the Velodrome Amedee Detraux in Guadeloupe from March 4-6. London (AFP) - Italy prop Martin Castrogiovanni was cited on Monday for allegedly stamping on Scotland's Duncan Taylor during Saturday's Six Nations clash. Castrogiovanni, who has made 118 Test appearances for Italy, appeared to direct a stamp towards Taylor's foot after coming on as a second-half replacement in Scotland's 36-20 victory in Rome. If the 34-year-old is found guilty he could miss Italy's March 12 meeting with Ireland in Dublin. Italy remain winless in this year's Six Nations tournament but a first victory would see them climb above fifth placed Ireland. A statement from Six Nations organisers confirmed Castrogiovanni will attend a disciplinary hearing in London on Wednesday to answer to a charge of breaching Law 10.4(b) - "a player must not stamp or trample on an opponent". Oscar nominee (and two-time winner) Cate Blanchett has been a style winner on every single awards-show red carpet this season, and Sunday night was no exception. In fact, if its even possible, she outdid herself. The Aussie beauty showed up in a show-stopping Armani Prive gown, accessorized with a chic new haircut. Blanchetts go-to mane man, Robert Vetica, reveals to Pret-a-Reporter that "we knew we were going to do it. It was a plan. It was strategic. We had talked about it for a while, and decided to do it today. We thought it would be perfect because of the dress. And shes had her hair long for a couple years now, so we decided, 'Lets just cut it off and start fresh,'" says Vetica. "Shes Cate Blanchett she can do whatever she wants!" Read More: Liev Schreiber Picked Naomi Watts' Oscar Dress The short, layered bob meant losing about six inches of the actresss honey blonde locks. "On its own, its this choppy, layered, really cool bob," says the talent behind Robert Vetica Salon at the SLS Hotel in Beverly Hills. "But I wanted it to look Oscar chic, a softer version of that haircut, so my inspiration [for today] was the women of Diana Vreeland: The Modern Woman, the book that just came out, and all those amazing images from the &lsquo40s and &lsquo50s." Vetica reveals that the styling was as simple as it looked. He blew Blanchetts hair dry using Wellas professional line EIMI and a round brush to smooth it out, before putting in four velcro rollers at the top of her head for a little volume and slight wave. "I sprayed it really good with hairspray and Wella Dry Me ($19) dry shampoo, which gives it a nice volumized texture, then brushed it out." The face-framing side part finished off the look, giving it a little of that retro drama. Ultimately, though, Vetica chalks up Blanchetts winning look to her innate grace. Cate is very regal, so whatever you do on her she carries with a regal elegance that takes a simple layered bob and makes it into an amazing, chic look. Story continues See More: Oscars: Red Carpet Photos Paris (AFP) - The fashion circus hits Paris Tuesday as the women's autumn-winter ready-to-wear shows come to town, with the industry deeply divided over the catwalk calendar and three major houses still without designers. As a storm gathers over whether labels should ditch a century of tradition and show collections as they go on sale in the shops, all eyes will be on the young Georgian designer Demna Gvasalia's first collection for Balenciaga. Many are curious to see how the 34-year-old one-time refugee, who made his name with gritty oversized streetwear, will shake up the venerable label, once a favourite with Jackie Kennedy and European royalty. His own edgy Paris-based label Vetements staged its last show in a Chinese restaurant in Belleville, one of the French capital's grittily hip quarters. Three of France's major labels are still without artistic directors after a string of shock departures at the end of 2015 that saw Raf Simons leave Dior for "personal reasons" and Alber Elbaz pushed out at Lanvin. The young Franco-Chinese designer Yiqing Yin, who left Leonard to concentrate on her own label, has also yet to be replaced. In the meantime the studios of all three houses have been putting together their collections, with Dior boss Sidney Toledano telling AFP that he would not be rushed into finding a replacement for Simons for one of fashion's most sought-after jobs. "It's not like presidential elections where they are deadlines," he said. - Showdown - But there appears to be no avoiding the looming showdown between some of the biggest names in US fashion and the industry's traditional European giants over whether collections should go on sale as soon as they hit the catwalks. Traditionally, the public has had to wait between four and six months before they could buy the clothes featured in each season's shows. The Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA) claims the "system is broken" and completely out of step with an era of instant gratification. Story continues Instead of the autumn-winter shows taking place in the spring as happens now, it wants them to be staged at the beginning of each autumn, with spring-summer collections following suit. However both the French and Italian federations have come out strongly against a switch to so-called "see now, buy now" system. Fashion mogul Francois-Henri Pinault, whose Kering group owns Gucci, Saint Laurent, Alexander McQueen and Balenciaga, told reporters the whole idea went against the "dream and desire" that drives the industry. But US designer Tommy Hilfiger -- who in September will offer his customers the chance to buy straight from the catwalk -- is adamant that change is coming. "The younger customer does not want to wait any longer, they want to see it and wear it that day or the next day. So we're going to change the rules," he told AFP. Fellow big hitters Tom Ford, Michael Kors, Tory Burch, Diane von Furstenberg and British luxury brand Burberry are set to follow suit with Rebecca Minkoff already offering 70 percent of her collection for immediate sale. But Paris, which jealously guards its status as fashion's creative capital, said the change was purely commercially driven, with the French Couture Federation claiming that young designers would suffer. Thousands of fashionistas are descending on the French capital for the more than 90 catwalk shows of the twice yearly Women's Fashion Week, which now extends over nine days. Days before a dozen states conduct their Super Tuesday nominating contests, one super PAC has made a six-figure national ad buy with one purpose: take down Republican presidential frontrunner Donald Trump. This isnt its first foray in doing so either. Since the Feb. 1 Iowa caucuses, Our Principles PAC has spent nearly $4.2 million skewering Trump. The latest ad airing knocks Trump for having once hired immigrants working in the United States illegally. The ad contrasts the billionaire businessmans hiring record with his anti-immigrant campaign rhetoric that, among other things, calls for the Mexican government to pay for a wall across the United States southern border. Trump makes big money off illegal immigrants, the ads narrator says. Can conservatives trust Donald Trump? The ads sponsor Our Principles PAC formed in mid-January days before the Feb. 1 Iowa caucuses. As a super PAC, Our Principles PAC has no limit on how much it may raise and spend. It almost instantaneously filled its coffers with millions of dollars. But its not yet clear that the moneyed super PAC will see a return on investment, despite spending its millions on anti-Trump material. We have weakened him considerably," Our Principles PAC founder Katie Packer told The Washington Post. "If we had more money and more time, it might have made more of a difference." Whos behind it? Our Principles PAC founder Katie Packer previously served as deputy campaign manager for Republican Mitt Romneys 2012 presidential run. Romney himself is no fan of Trump, just today accusing Trump of coddling repugnant bigotry. Related video: Our Principles PAC: 'Big Money' This story is part of Source Check. Click here to read more stories in this series. Don't miss another Politics investigation: Sign up for the Center for Public Integrity's Watchdog email. Packer works at Burning Glass, an all-female Republican consulting firm that specializes in targeting messages to women voters. She is also a founder partner at consulting firm WWP Strategies, which once produced an ad for Romneys presidential campaign. Story continues Money in The super PAC has one known major financial backer: Marlene Ricketts. Ricketts donated $3 million to Our Principles PAC nearly all of the money the group raised through January, according to the most recent report with the Federal Election Commission. Ricketts is the wife of billionaire Joe Ricketts, founder of TD Ameritrade. The Ricketts family also owns the Chicago Cubs. Marlene Ricketts has spent the election cycle throwing money at most anyone standing between Trump and the Republican presidential nomination. So far, shes donated to various super PACs supporting seven different GOP candidates: Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey, former Texas Gov. Rick Perry, former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Gov. Scott Walker of Wisconsin. Marlene Ricketts gave the most $4.9 million to Unintimidated PAC, a super PAC that backed Gov. Scott Walker, who dropped out last year. Super PACs backing the other candidates have received a more modest sum: $10,000 each. Together, Marlene and Joe Ricketts have donated millions of dollars to conservative efforts over the years. Joe Ricketts himself also leads super PAC ESA Fund, which in January aired ads against Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders, and its sister nonprofit. Otherwise, Ricketts has so far this election cycle only donated $100,000 to Unintimidated PAC. Money out So far, Our Principles PAC has spent nearly $4.2 million in efforts to derail Trump, according to federal independent expenditure records. These records must be filed immediately after such expenditures are made. Our Principles PACs efforts this election include TV ads, digital ads and printed mailers. Theyve targeted voters in Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina just before their respective caucuses and primaries. The latest anti-Trump ad flurry is different, airing nationally as opposed to zeroing in on specific Super Tuesday states. Why it matters Efforts by Our Principles PAC dont appear significant enough to prevent Trump from a massive win on Super Tuesday, according to most recent polls. The super PAC appears resigned to this outcome, but isnt giving up: Just last week, Our Principles PAC founder Katie Packer urged fellow Republicans to donate money to her efforts. She also urged called on the remaining Republican presidential candidates Cruz, Rubio, retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson and Ohio Gov. John Kasich to coalesce into a single anti-Trump force. Since the memo circulated last Monday, Conservative Solutions PAC a super PAC supporting Marco Rubio has started an anti-Trump campaign of its own. One recent ad criticized Trumps refusal to disavow the endorsement of David Duke, a former Ku Klux Klan leader. Club for Growth and American Future Fund, two other conservative organizations, have unleashed their own ads targeting Trump. Related story: Tracking TV ads in the 2016 presidential race This story is part of Source Check. Click here to read more stories in this series. Related stories Copyright 2016 The Center for Public Integrity. This story was published by The Center for Public Integrity, a nonprofit, nonpartisan investigative news organization in Washington, D.C. By Yasin Kakande KAMPALA (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - Six cases of the mutilation and murder of children as "good luck" sacrifices were reported during the recent Ugandan elections, a children's charity said. "Child sacrifice cases are common during election time as some people believe blood sacrifices will bring wealth and power," said Shelin Kasozi of Kyampisi Childcare Ministries (KCM), a charity that cares for survivors of attempted child sacrifice. She said the cases were reported from October to February in Ssembabule, Mukono, Buikwe and Mubende districts in central Uganda. Suspects had been apprehended, but the cases had yet to go to court, she said. President Yoweri Museveni won a Feb. 18 election, extending his 30-year rule in a vote criticized by the United States and European Union. Ugandans also voted in municipal and parliamentary elections. Moses Binoga, coordinator of the anti-trafficking task force at the interior ministry, said children had been reported missing in the election period. But he could not confirm KCM's reports and said investigations were ongoing. He said seven child and six adult sacrifice cases were reported in the country in 2015, compared to nine child and four adult sacrifice cases reported in 2014. Binoga said the mutilated bodies of children and adults had been found, some with hearts or livers ripped out. In two cases reported last year the victims' heads were missing, he said. In a 2012 case, 82-year-old Hanifa Namuyanja was sentenced to 15 years in jail for taking part in the sacrifice of her granddaughter Shamim Nalwoga. Police found the girl's body with her tongue and eyes cut out and genitals mutilated, the court heard. The United Nations said last year that attacks on albino people in Africa were on the rise, linked to a growing demand from political hopefuls for body parts prized in black magic in the run up to elections in several African countries. (Editing by Ros Russell; Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's rights, trafficking, property rights and climate change. Visit http://news.trust.org to see more stories) China's coal consumption fell for the second year in a row, government data showed on Monday, as the world's biggest polluter attempts to tackle chronic pollution that accompanied economic growth. Coal use fell 3.7 percent last year compared to 2014 levels, according to a report from China's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The drop follows a 2.9 percent decrease in 2014. China's rise to the world's second largest economy was largely powered by cheap, dirty coal. As growth slows, the country has had a difficult time weaning itself off the fuel, even as the pollution it causes wreaks havoc on the environment and public health. China's consumption of the fuel doubled in the decade to 2014, reaching more than four billion tonnes a year. Monday's figures did not give an absolute total. It emerged in November that China had been under-reporting its consumption for years, after a different set of statistics were revised, with the figure for 2012 alone going up 17 percent, or 600 million tonnes. There are widespread doubts over the accuracy of official statistics in China, which critics say can be subject to political manipulation. Coal fell to 64 percent of the country's energy sources last year, Monday's NBS report said, down from 66 percent in 2014. Observers reacted to the declines with tempered optimism. "These statistics show that China is on track to far surpass its Paris climate targets, which is great news for everyone," said Lauri Myllyvirta, a senior global campaigner on coal for Greenpeace. "However, the trend is not moving as fast as it could." The government plans to lay off about 1.8 million workers in the steel and coal industries, a human resources and social security ministry official said at a press briefing on Monday. Both sectors have long been plagued by overcapacity. China's President Xi Jinping has said that the country's CO2 emissions, to which coal is a major contributor, will peak "around 2030", as pledged in Paris. Story continues The State Council, China's cabinet, has also announced plans to reduce by 60 percent the amount of "major pollutants" coming from its coal-fired power plants by 2020. Despite the decrease in coal use, many Chinese cities are often blanketed with toxic smog, much of it the result of using the fuel in industries like power generation and steel. Nearly 300 Chinese cities failed to meet national standards for air quality last year, according to a Greenpeace report. By Megan Rowling BARCELONA (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - In the Caribbean island state of Barbados, rainwater collection has been promoted as a way to boost scarce supplies of fresh water. But there's a catch: environmental health officers then reported an increase in mosquitoes breeding in household water storage tanks. In a country battling a high rate of dengue fever and some recently detected cases of Zika, controlling the population of the Aedes aegypti mosquito - which transmits both viruses to humans - is a high priority. Diarmid Campbell-Lendrum, team leader for climate change and health with the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, says there is a cheap and easy answer: covering rainwater tanks with mosquito nets. But first the connection between climate and health issues must be made - and that doesn't always happen. In Barbados, it did. The country was one of seven to take part in the first global project on adapting public health systems to climate change, launched by the WHO and the U.N. Development Program in 2010. Key aims of the work in Barbados were to improve water storage facilities to eliminate mosquitoes, give technical advice on building and maintaining water tanks, and raise public awareness about safe ways to harvest rainwater. "It is about healthy urban planning - whereby your urban design, and your water and sanitation services all take into account the health risks and opportunities that arise," said Campbell-Lendrum. Pressure to analyze the health impacts of climate change and extreme weather - and to explore how efforts to deal with climate stresses could themselves shape health risks - is increasing as Zika gathers pace. WHO figures show that active Zika outbreaks have been reported in around 40 countries or territories since the start of 2015, with three quarters of them in the Americas. In that region, the Aedes mosquito is found in all countries except Canada and continental Chile, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The Zika infection itself produces none or only mild symptoms in many cases, but scientists are trying to establish whether it causes microcephaly in babies, a condition in which infants are born with unusually small heads and can suffer developmental problems. Zika also has been associated with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare disorder in which the body's immune system attacks part of the nervous system. There is no treatment or vaccine for Zika infection, and the WHO has said it will take at least 18 months to start large-scale clinical trials of preventative shots. That means the focus for now is on understanding where and how the virus is likely to spread, eliminating mosquito breeding sites - from water tanks to flower pots, gutters and used tyres - and taking precautions against mosquito bites. EL NINO INFLUENCE? Climate scientists have a role to play in the fight against Zika because mosquito-borne infections are strongly affected by weather and climate conditions, Campbell-Lendrum said. It remains unclear if and how climate change and the powerful El Nino weather phenomenon that has brought drought and floods to different parts of the world in recent months may have influenced the spread of Zika, he added. "But it is certainly highly plausible that these unusual weather conditions have made it easier to transmit the virus," he told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Meteorologists have warned that El Nino, a warming of Pacific Ocean surface waters, could be succeeded later in the year by its opposite - La Nina - which also causes extreme weather around the globe. That is something scientists will need to monitor closely in the coming months, matching projections of climatic conditions that favor breeding of Aedes mosquitoes with information on where people from places with the infection are traveling. Erin Coughlan de Perez of the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Center said that as knowledge grows about the links between climate factors and Zika, it could be used to target public health measures in at-risk areas, to head off outbreaks. IMPROVING RESPONSE In a January report on the health impacts of El Nino, the WHO warned that above-average rainfall was expected in parts of South America until May - particularly Ecuador, Peru, Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil and Argentina. That could cause floods and increases in vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya and Zika, said the report - the first of its kind. "We are paying much more attention to the links between climate and weather and health, and trying to use this information and this understanding to improve the response," the WHO's Campbell-Lendrum said. Madeleine Thomson, a senior scientist with the International Research Institute for Climate and Society, said it is now increasingly accepted that climate factors need to be a core consideration for the health sector, but the resources to put that into practice have yet to follow. The fact that global warming will make populations in some parts of the world more vulnerable to mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika "is not rocket science", she said. "The key thing is how do we use that knowledge to better control Zika and other emerging infectious diseases that will come down the pipeline?" Thomson will attend a meeting called by PAHO in Washington this week to define the public health research agenda for Zika, which is expected to include weather and climate influences. The researcher noted that scientists will have to draw on what they already know about dengue, given that Zika is likely transmitted by the same mosquito species. URBAN SLUMS Dengue - which causes flu-like symptoms and can develop into the deadly dengue haemorrhagic fever - is the world's fastest-spreading tropical disease, with the annual number of cases increasing 30-fold in the last 50 years, according to the WHO. The failure to control dengue is rooted partly in the fact that the mosquitoes thrive in small amounts of stagnant water in urban areas, and their eggs can survive dry seasons. Unplanned urbanization favors the transmission of dengue and Zika, experts say. That's a problem at a time when the world's cities are mushrooming, particularly in poorer countries with slums that lack a reliable water supply and decent housing. "It's really a recipe for disaster, for increasing disaster risk - and it reinforces the need for us to get out ahead of this with effective planning," said Robert Glasser, head of the U.N. Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR). The spread of Zika has shown that the emergence of a virus or disease can affect all countries, including rich ones, making international cooperation, early detection and rapid response systems essential, he added. A new global agreement to prevent disasters, adopted in Sendai, Japan, last March, included the need to address biological hazards such as pandemics - largely in response to the outbreak of Ebola in West Africa. But efforts to join up ministries and agencies working separately on health and disasters are still at an early stage, with a conference due to bring them together in Bangkok next month. "These viruses do not respect silos within government, and they don't respect borders either across governments, and this is the main reason we need to break down the silos in almost every direction," Glasser said. (Reporting by Megan Rowling; editing by Laurie Goering. Please credit the Thomson Reuters Foundation, the charitable arm of Thomson Reuters, that covers humanitarian news, women's rights, trafficking, corruption and climate change. Visit http://news.trust.org) News Story not available This story has been published on: 2022-10-21. To contact the author, please use the contact details within the article. This story is no longer available on our site. Pull through the gates of the organic farm down a path lined with mango trees, past spinach, papaya and bananas growing in the even sunlight and arrive at a rudimentary hut with a steel roof. A couple of messy, content white guys are hanging out. They point the way to Freeman Murray, whos sitting on the middle level of a scaffolded structure you might miss, thinking its a pile of scrap metal or a forlorn construction site. It is in fact a home, school, boot camp and co-working space, and Murray is the guru in residence. Hes helping a couple of Indian twentysomethings through their morning lesson: Javascript. Here, on the outskirts of Indias tech hub, Bangalore, 43-year-old Murray, a bearded, sun-tanned, mild-mannered programmer, teaches middle-class young people some with imperfect English, some college dropouts, many seeking a career switch the ways of the Web. This co-founder of a local art-and-tech co-working community is a minor celebrity in Indias startup scene. (A lively Quora thread asks, How does one meet Mr. Freeman Murray?) He branched out to create this program, Jaaga Study, a couple of years ago, and its part of his larger presence in the country as an advocate of accessible computer science education. Hes also helped set up the Center for Innovation, Incubation & Entrepreneurship and is chapter president of Code for India in Bangalore, which tries to distribute programming skills widely. [Hes] a delicious anthropological case study in the perpetual intersection between Silicon Valley and the Far East. India is well known for its scientific achievements; graduates of the prestigious Indian Institutes of Technology powered much of the tech explosion of the 90s and 2000s. By the end of this year, India is expected to overtake the U.S. in numbers of Internet users, hitting 400 million, which according to the Internet and Mobile Association of India isnt even one-third of the country. Coding boot camps are popping up everywhere, from online MOOCs to in-person six or 12-week affairs that promise six-figure salaries. Some, like Hyderabad-based the Hacking School, run around $1,000 and, says its founder Meraj Faheem, target people who already have a computer programming background. Story continues Portrait 9d0a0263 Murray is the chapter president of Code for India in Bangalore but the title belies his thoroughly fan-girled status. Source: Selvaprakash Lakshmanan for OZY Yet much of India lives far from these heady times, explains Karl Mehta, Code for Indias founder. Theres a huge class divide, Mehta says. Faheem finds Murrays approach interesting but wonders about how convenient or practical it really is. After all, only around 5 percent of graduates of technical colleges find work at IT product companies and less than 20 percent at IT service companies, according to the employability research company Aspiring Minds. Here at Jaaga Study, though, things seem idyllic. The dozen or so students are attending for free Murray is self-funding the initiative in a place thats all jaunty, with mishmashed floors, and is outfitted with tents, where everyone sleeps. In the morning, theres yoga and study; at various points during the day students farm or teach tech skills at nearby schools. And everyone rides Murrays electric unicycle. Dolly Goyal and Rajesh Mule, both 23, spent 18 months living plain, programmy lives under Murrays guidance and are now trying to bring tablets into classrooms. Nearby sits lanky Italian Matteo Bianchini, 27, whos building a peer-to-peer marketplace. Jaaga, he says computer screen propped open in front of him, white iPod headphones draped around his neck is a perfect place to unplug. A high school dropout and eventual entrepreneur, Murray is a delicious anthropological case study in the perpetual intersection between Silicon Valley and the Far East. A relic of the 90s computing revolution, the son of a programmer and a former coder at storied Sun Microsystems, Murray is a Bay Area native who came of age when life in the Valley was peaking. As an undergrad (he made it after junior college), he helped build the Internet Underground Music Archive, a well-known music startup, and made his way to Sun soon after. From there, he and his boss quit their jobs, eventually building a company that was soon acquired by the then-prestigious Excite@Home. Then, the bubble burst. Yoga 9d0a9630 2 Students meditate in the mornings before coding and later ride an electric unicycle. Source: Selvaprakash Lakshmanan for OZY Now comes the tale of an entrepreneur turned Zen after a successful exit and a tempered market. I was super ambitious then, he says, reflecting that those monied days caused his peer group to lose touch with the value of money. So he learned to live with less, bumming on a Hawaiian beach the best days ever. And then the choice: I could either come back to the Bay and get a real job and be normal or I could go to India. It says something about the tech world that the guy with a Dude-meets-Bryan-Cranston look wearing flowy orange pants and a tiger T-shirt can, with minimal money and a 4G router, run a coding boot camp in the developing world. Hes a sign of the tolerance and even adoration countercultural technologists hold for the unconventional. Today, you can find some of the sharpest developers around working out of geodesic domes on rural plots of land or even on buses as they travel the country. But as much as life has changed around here, Murray still goes back to California annually for a couple of months. In part for Burning Man, the counterculture fete favored by SFs mindful-techie crowd. He says hes not off the map from his old world but Im definitely that guy who went to India. An earlier version of this story misspelled the name of Matteo Bianchini. Related Articles From Cosmopolitan Hillary Clinton decisively won the South Carolina primary on Saturday with a big leg up from women, especially African American women. But Bernie Sanders triumphed among young voters, a demographic that's consistently been among his strongest supporters. In the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary, Bernie Sanders trounced his Democratic rival among young voters overall, including Millennial women, leading many to ask: are young women abandoning Clinton? A new Cosmopolitan.com survey shows that it's actually more complicated than that. A majority of Millennial readers of the site say they believe Hillary Clinton will ultimately triumph in November - although when they're asked to name their preferred candidate, Sanders leads Clinton by 6 percentage points. The survey of just over 1,000 women between the ages of 18 and 34, selected randomly from among Cosmopolitan.com newsletter subscribers and conducted in partnership with John Della Volpe, CEO of SocialSphere and director of polling at the Harvard Institute for Politics, found that 33 percent of readers are supporting Sanders, while 27 percent are backing Clinton. Donald Trump and Marco Rubio were in a virtual tie - with 10 percent and 8 percent of readers, respectively - while the remaining Republican candidates garnered less than 5 percent each. Fourteen percent of readers remained undecided. As voters head to the polls on Super Tuesday, the poll revealed that some Millennial women, although they are planning to cast a ballot for Sanders, are also skeptical about his chances of winning the primaries. Thirty-six percent of Cosmopolitan.com readers said they think Clinton will be the next president, while 21 percent said the same of Trump. Only 16 percent think Sanders will win the presidency. Sara Pyne, a 20-year-old college student living in Massachusetts, is a Sanders supporter but expects Clinton to receive the nomination. (Because she is registered to vote in her home state of Washington, she won't be voting on Super Tuesday.). "I'm supporting Bernie because he's consistently been an activist and he has a strong moral compass - I think he's the most trustworthy of the candidates," she says. "But Hillary can pull in moderates in a way that Bernie can't." Story continues Like many of the Cosmopolitan.com readers surveyed, Pyne is caught between her desire for a candidate that fits her ideals and pragmatic concerns about electability. She says she is inspired by Sanders's strong record on women's rights and his careful attention to issues she cares about, like education, but told me that if Sanders became the Democratic candidate, she would worry about his ability to appeal to a wide spectrum of voters. "It's hard, because I want our next president to help our country grow in a progressive direction," she says. "I almost supported Hillary, but it seems like she just says what people want her to say. Bernie fights for what he believes in, he's been unwavering. But you know, maybe people aren't ready for that." And although Sanders has an edge among Millennial women overall, there are sharp divisions between younger and older Millennial women. Women between the ages of 18 and 24, like Pyne, support Sanders by nearly 2-to-1, while women between the ages of 25 and 34 are more likely to back Clinton, although her advantage isn't as striking. In this sense, Millennial women represent a microcosm of the larger electorate, where older women express more enthusiasm about Clinton. The high numbers of young women who cast ballots for Sanders in the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary alarmed some feminist stalwarts, including Gloria Steinem and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, who sparked controversy earlier this month when she declared there's a "special place in hell for women who don't support each other." None of the Cosmopolitan.com readers I spoke with were as emphatic as Albright in their views, but it was clear from the survey that college-age women or recent graduates were substantially more likely than women in their late 20s or early 30s to throw their weight behind Sanders. For many Millennial women, Sanders and Clinton are polarizing figures. Sixty percent of the Cosmopolitan.com readers in the survey are backing a Democrat, but that doesn't mean they'd be equally happy with either candidate. Some women said they're wary of the political baggage Clinton would bring to the White House. Maureen Fogarty, 28, settled on Sanders despite harboring qualms about his economic plan, which she worries could end up hurting the middle class in cities. Fogarty, who lives in Chicago, wants a candidate who's left of center on social issues, but she won't vote for Clinton because she's fed up with political dynasties. "It's starting to feel like an oligarchy, with all of the power concentrated in the same hands," she says. "I don't think that's the American way." Her second-choice candidate is Ohio governor John Kasich, a Republican, although she acknowledged that his chances of winning are slim. Others are turned off by Clinton's personality and campaign style. "She feels really fake to me," said Karina Luca, 26. Luca is a nurse living in Rutland, Vermont, who's planning to cast her ballot for Sanders on Super Tuesday. Saddled with "tons" of student loan debt, she said it's time for a president without connections to big banks and wealthy donors. "I feel like we're just run by people who only care about profit," she said. "We really need to start taking care of the people who don't have the means to survive in this country." Although she suspects Clinton will win the nomination, Luca said she's less confident in Clinton's commitment to lower-income and middle-class Americans. "I don't know what would happen when she [gets] to the White House. With Bernie, I know he'll fight for what's right." Cassidy Hardin, a 19-year-old college student living in Topeka, Kansas, agreed. She'll be supporting Sanders in her state's Democratic caucus March 5 because he feels like a more "genuine" candidate. "Clinton seems to view all of this as a game," she told me. "I kind of think she just wants to win." But for others, Clinton simply seems like a safer bet. "I'm supporting Clinton because she feels like the best candidate for the long-term," said Lauren Kirby, 26, who lives in Seattle. Kirby questioned the affordability of Sanders's economic platform and said Clinton's political experience was a plus for her. "She's got a background in foreign policy, and she's always been a strong supporter of women's rights," she said. "What Bernie Sanders is suggesting - the free health care and free college tuition - sounds great, but it's not feasible or sustainable." Clinton's consistent support for equal pay and reproductive rights was a theme among her supporters. "My birth control is free because of the national health care program, and that's been an amazing benefit," said Beth, 30, a consultant living in northern Virginia. "I trust Hillary to ensure that women continue to have access to those resources." Despite these differences, most Cosmopolitan.com readers agreed it's critical for the next president to be capable of diffusing the country's political tension and polarization. In the survey, a majority - 53 percent - of voters said they are politically liberal, but 50 percent also identified as independents, saying they support the person, rather than the party. Readers across the political spectrum shared the desire for greater political compromise and consensus, although there was some disagreement about which candidate was best positioned to promote harmony in Washington. Mallory Gerndt, a 20-year-old college student who's registered to vote in Virginia (although she won't be voting on Super Tuesday because her absentee ballot didn't arrive in time) told me she's enthusiastic about both Marco Rubio and John Kasich because she believes they'll bring a bipartisan spirit to the White House. "The other Republican candidates - Ted Cruz and Donald Trump - are both so extreme, I just don't see them having a unifying effect," she said. Gerndt leans Republican because of her opposition to Obamacare and says she's wary of Washington insiders, but she says it's also important for a president to be able to work within the system. Bernie Sanders's history as an independent appeals to Karina Luca, the nurse from Vermont, for the same reason. "Whoever gets into office is going to have trouble bringing people together, but I've seen Bernie fight for gun rights and hunters, and I've seen him at the fishing shows, so I think he knows how to work both sides," she told me. But Annie Weingarten, 23, who lives in Oregon, said she was concerned about Sanders's ability to connect with a wide base of voters. "I just don't think enough Americans are behind the revolution he wants to create," she said. "Hillary Clinton was the first lady for quite some time, she's been secretary of state - she has the background and the experience to actually get things done." The problem with both Sanders and Trump, for Weingarten, was their unwillingness to grapple with the realities of political governance. "One person can make lots of big promises about what they'll do if they get elected, but we can't forget that they need a whole lot of support from people who aren't the president to make those promises into a reality," she said. Only 27 percent of Cosmopolitan.com readers said they wanted a Republican candidate to win the election. But Trump came in second when readers were asked who they thought would ultimately become president, well above any of the other Republican hopefuls. Caroline Morris, a 24-year-old quality assurance specialist living in North Carolina, said she was supporting Trump because of his business savvy. "He says he'll run the country like he ran his business empire, and I think that's exactly what we need right now," she told me. "I trust his knowledge and his no-nonsense approach. Americans are responding to him because he's the kind of change we need." Others, however, questioned Trump's seriousness and expressed concern about the possibility of a Trump presidency. "I keep thinking this has to be a joke, because Donald Trump has no sense of diplomacy, he has no sense of bipartisanship, he's clearly a person who's just looking to put his name on the map," said Beth, the consultant from Northern Virginia. "Don't we want someone in office who has any idea what he's doing or shows any desire to work with other people?" Trump's approach to foreign policy is particularly alarming to Emily Blood, 27, who lives in Oklahoma and plans to vote for Rubio on Super Tuesday. "If Donald Trump gets elected, I'm really worried that he's going to start World War III," she told me. "I'm laughing when I say that so I don't cry - I just think someone so aggressive and plainly inconsiderate would do a ton of damage if he became president." But overall, most Cosmopolitan.com readers seemed cautiously optimistic about the results of the election - at least, on the Democratic side. Clinton supporters mostly characterized the Sanders campaign as a temporary bump in the road, and Sanders supporters seemed, on the whole, satisfied (if not elated) by the possibility of a Clinton presidency. Republican-leaning voters, on the other hand, were more uncertain. "I am by no means a fan of Hillary Clinton, but if it comes down to Hillary versus Trump, I'd vote for Hillary," Amanda F. said. She's 30, working in real estate in Texas, and although she considers herself an independent, she's supporting Ted Cruz. Cruz, for her, is the "best option" within an unappealing field, but she doubts that he can defeat Trump in the primaries. "There's a difference between being a businessman and being a leader, and Trump just doesn't have the character you need to be president," she told me. But like many other Millennial women on both sides of the political spectrum, she said the aspect of the race that saddened her the most was the lack of respect displayed by the candidates. "It seems to have gotten to a point where politics is all about people publicly insulting each other and accusing each other of lying," she said. "It just makes it hard to know who to believe." Follow Amelia on Twitter I wonder if Chris Rock would have taken the Oscars gig if he'd known what it would eventually become. Rock was hired to host the Academy Awards, which was already a daunting task given the reviews Oscars hosts not named Billy Crystal invariably get, but after the nominations his job shifted from jovial emcee to dedicated expiator of AMPAS sins. His only responsibilities initially were to crack wise for 10 minutes, set a tone in the room and depart for the majority of the telecast, but instead the responsibility to sufficiently flagellate the awards for their inevitable lack of diversity fell to him, the need to be harsh enough initially that the rest of the show could go on without guilt. That's a titanic chore (reference to an actor who will may have already won his first Oscar by the time you read this unintended). That's why Chris Rock's monologue opening the 2016 Oscars was 10 straight minutes of topically addressing the Academy diversity question. Period. Full stop. Nothing else. If you thought we were going to get a song about the nominees? Nope. If you thought we were going to get punchlines about various successful films from the year to bring viewers into the telecast smoothly? Nope. If you thought Rock was going to revisit his most notorious monologue jokes from his first hosting attempt and lampoon Jude Law? Nope. By the end of the monologue, Rock tossed in a good joke about why reporters ask actress what they're wearing on the red carpet but not men men wear the same thing every time, basically but that was the exception. Before Rock hit the stage, there was some question of whether he'd just dive right into the #OscarsSoWhite controversy or tiptoe. There was no tiptoeing. "I counted at least 15 black people in that montage," Rock cracked after an opening film montage that was, indeed, very conspicuously focused on movies like Concussion and Beasts of No Nation, movies that Oscar voters weren't nearly so conspicuously interested in. Story continues And then Rock just dove right in, welcoming the crowd to the Oscars, "otherwise known as the White People's Choice Awards." "You realize if they nominated hosts, I wouldn't even get this job. Y'all would be watching Neil Patrick Harris right now," Rock continued in a clear "it's funny because it's true" moment. If you'll recall, Rock's Jude Law jokes were about how prolific he was, and this year's similar target was Kevin Hart, who Rock suggested would have gotten the job if he'd quit. "The last thing I need is to lose another job to Kevin Hart," he said. "Kev makes movies fast. Every month. Porn stars don't make movies that fast." As for the monologue itself, Rock walked an interesting line between acknowledging the Academy's problems and making light of them. "The big question: Why this Oscars?" he asked, regarding protests. "It's the 88th Academy Awards, which means this whole 'no black nominees' thing has happened at least 71 other times." He suggested this had probably happened several times in the '60s as well, but "black people did not protest. Why? Because we had real things to protest at the time." They were, he observed, "too busy being raped and lynched to care about who won best cinematographer." Ouch. He continued: "When your grandmother's swinging from a tree, it's really hard to care about best documentary short." There's definitely something to be said for putting Academy Awards controversies in context, and Rock pulled no punches. He also didn't pull any punches in lovingly and gently chiding several of the featured star protestors. "Jada boycotting the Oscars is like me boycotting Rihanna's panties. I wasn't invited," he said of Jada Pinkett Smith. And of her husband, Will, he added, "It's not fair that Will was this good and didn't get nominated. It's also not fair that Will was paid $20 million for Wild Wild West." Again, putting the protest in context based on seriousness, he warned that this year's In Memoriam reel was "just gonna be black people who were shot by the cops on theor way to the movies." So was Rock cutting Hollywood total slack for racism? Not really. Read More: Oscars: Read Chris Rock's Opening Monologue "Is Hollywood racist?" he pondered. "You gotta go at that the right way. Is it burning-cross racist? No. Is it 'Fetch me some lemonade' racist? No. It's a different type of racist." Rock then told a story about a fundraiser with President Obama and noticing all of the Hollywood liberals who didn't hire black writers or actors. "Is Hollywood racist? You're damn right Hollywood is racist," he said, clarifying, "Hollywood is sorority racist. It's like, 'We like you Rhonda, but you're not a Kappa.'" Here, the director kept cutting to every available person of color in the audience or to Matt Damon so that Project Greenlight viewers could be amused or made uncomfortable. Interestingly, when Rock seemed like he was about to get a bit more pointed, he pulled up short. "We want opportunity," he declared. "We want the black actors to get the same opportunities as white actors. That's it. And not just once. Leo gets a great part every year. All you guys get great parts all the time. But what about the black actors?" Rock then mentioned how great Jamie Foxx was in Ray, but just when it seemed like there was a point he was about to make about the Horrible Bosses sequel or the Spider-Man sequel or the Annie remake or any of the other questionable work Foxx has done in recent years, he transitioned to a joke. I'm not sure if Rock thought the punchline about pulling the plug on the real Ray Charles was enough or if he sensed he was running out of time or if the teleprompter lost the actual conclusion or what. I sensed there was a joke about how short-lived the Oscar halo is for the career of African-America Oscar winners, compared with white winners. But maybe there wasn't? See More: Oscars: Red Carpet Photos Rock closed his 10 minutes with, "You want diversity, we got diversity. Please welcome Emily Blunt and somebody whiter, Charlize Theron." In the end, Rock's monologue was blistering and relevant and really funny, but every viewer is going to decide for themselves whether it accomplished what needed to be done or if anything needed to be done at all. For viewers who think that Academy Awards diversity is not a problem at all, it was presumably way too monomaniacal, especially if you were hoping that Rock would unload on Donald Trump for a few minutes just to soften the blow of Jon Stewart's absence from late night. But for people who think this actually is a serious thing because movies are supposed to be a reflection of society and the Oscars are supposed to be a reflection of the best in movies the actual effectiveness may have been mixed. Rock attacked the problem, while minimizing it; announced the racism, but made it seem benign and friendly; offered solutions, but the main feigned solution was black-only categories like "best black friend" ("And the winner for the 18th year in a row is, Wanda Sykes!"). Was Chris Rock ever going to really burn down the Hollywood machinery on the stage of a Hollywood event? Of course not. In that light, he made the people in the room uncomfortable, made the people at home laugh, but made it possible for the show to go on. That was his actual job. He did it well. (And, of course, the #OscarsSoWhite jokes continued past the monologue, but that's the subject of a future review.) var el = document.getElementById('targetParams');if (el !== null && typeof(el) != 'undefined') {var srcParams = $('.advert iframe').attr('src');var addParams = srcParams.split(";");for (i=1;i<=addParams.length - 1;i++) {if (addParams[i] != '=null' && addParams[i] != 'dcopt=ist' && addParams[i] != '!c=iframe' && addParams[i] != 'pos=t' && addParams[i] != 'sz=728x90') {el.value += addParams[i]+";";}}}brightcove.createExperiences();>>>>>>> An American student arrested in North Korea has admitted to stealing propaganda material at the behest of a US Methodist church and with the encouragement of a secret university society, state media reported on Monday. The North's official KCNA news agency said Otto Frederick Warmbier, who was arrested in early January as he was leaving the country, had given an "interview" Monday with domestic and foreign journalists in Pyongyang. In an opening statement quoted by KCNA, the 21-year-old student from the University of Virginia said he had removed a political slogan from the staff-only area of the Pyongyang hotel being used by his tour group. In a video clip distributed by CNN, a sobbing Warmbier said he had made "the worst mistake of my life" and pleaded to be released. The clip showed Warmbier, his head bowed and wearing a suit and tie, being marched into a room by two North Korean guards. According to KCNA, Warmbier said he had been tasked with stealing the slogan by a member of the Friendship United Methodist Church back home who wanted it "as a trophy". - Payment offered - The member -- the mother of a friend of Warmbier's -- had promised him a used car worth $10,000 if he succeeded and a payment of $200,000 to his family if he was detained, the agency said. "Since my family is suffering from very severe financial difficulties, I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money," he was quoted as saying. "The aim of my task was to harm the motivation and work ethic of the Korean people. This was a very foolish aim," he added. Foreigners detained in North Korea are often required to make a public, largely-scripted acknowledgement of wrongdoing as a first step towards a possible release. Political slogans, extolling the achievements of the country and its leaders and encouraging citizens to work harder and demonstrate their loyalty, are all-pervasive in North Korea. Story continues They can be seen on the streets and in nearly every public building, as well as every work unit. According to KCNA, the slogan removed by Warmbier was aimed at inspiring "the Korean people's love for their system." In its original announcement of Warmbier's arrest, North Korea said he had engaged in a "hostile act" with the connivance of the US government. - Sensitive time - His detention came at a sensitive time, with the United States taking a leading role in efforts to secure tough international sanctions on North Korea over its latest nuclear test. According to KCNA, Warmbier said he had been encouraged in his mission by the secretive "Z Society" at the University of Virginia which had promised him membership if he succeeded. According to the university magazine, the society is known for its philanthropic efforts, hosts numerous honorary dinners and grants academic awards. "There is no doubt that the CIA knows the Z Society's encouragement of my crime," Warmbier was quoted as saying. Monday's KCNA despatch did not clarify the precise charges Warmbier was facing, and gave no indication if he would be put on trial. Warmbier had entered North Korea as part of a New Year tour organised by China-based Young Pioneer Tours. He was arrested when the group was set to return to Beijing on January 2. The United States has no diplomatic or consular relations with the North, and the Swedish embassy in Pyongyang provides limited consular services to US citizens detained there. Warmbier is one of three North Americans currently detained in North Korea, which last month sentenced a 60-year-old Canadian pastor to life imprisonment with hard labour on sedition charges. (Photo: Reuters) Parliament was adjourned on Monday (29 Feb) before the death of 14-year-old Benjamin Lim could be discussed. The discussion will now take place at the next sitting on Tuesday (1 March). Home Affairs and Law Minister K Shanmugam and Acting Education Minister Ng Chee Meng are to address questions filed by eight Members of Parliament in their ministerial statements. This will be the first public comment by any senior minister since Benjamins death on 26 January, the same day that the student was being questioned by the police for an allegation of outrage of modesty. The topics debated in the house on Monday included the Cross Island Line and the National Day Parade 2016 costs, among others. There were also amendments to several bills, including the Womens Charter Bill, the Registration of Criminals bill, and the Central Provident Fund Bill. Saturday, February 13, 2016, was D-Day in Brazil, the launch of the most important battle yet in the war against Aedes aegypti, the mosquito that transmits the viruses that cause yellow fever, dengue, chikungunya and, most pressing today, Zika. Armed with insecticides and leaflets, and accompanied by thousands of soldiers, the Brazilian governmentincluding President Dilma Rousseff and almost all the ministerstook to the streets to convince people to do everything they could to rid their homes of the mosquito. The country needed to do in a few months what it has not been able to accomplish in the 30-plus years since the first case of dengue, a potentially lethal, flu-like illness, was registered in Brazil in 1981: close ranks against the vector. Aedes aegypti is endemic in Brazilthe blood-sucking insect is found in almost all of the more than 5,000 counties in the country. This one species of mosquito is responsible for Brazils annual epidemic of dengue that kills hundreds and sometimes thousands of people. Brazilians have learned to live with dengue, but in the first months of 2015 infectious disease experts began to see what they believed was a new mosquito-borne illness. It tended to cause flu-like symptoms, a light fever and a pinkish rash that disappeared in a day or two. Most local health care workers were treating it as though it were dengue. But when Dr. Kleber Luz, an infectious disease expert based in Natal, the capital of the state of Rio Grande do Norte, looked at the symptoms patients were presenting with, he quickly suspected it was not dengue. He called up a colleague, Dr. Carlos Brito, a researcher at the Osvaldo Cruz Foundation (Fiocruz) in Pernambuco, one of Brazils most prominent infectious disease institutions. Its specialty: arboviruses, the viruses transmitted by mosquitoes, ticks or other arthropods, including dengue, yellow fever and West Nile. We collected more than 500 samples, and we insisted that it was not dengue, that it was something urgent and new, says Luz. After ruling out other options, the two experts concluded it had to be Zika. Story continues Zika has been known for decades in Africa and parts of Asia, but it had never spread in South America, so the doctors conclusion was met with distrust. The Ministry of Health was contacted, but the Brazilian government wasnt convinced. Whatever was going around had no dangerous symptoms or long-lasting effects, and people werent dying. So the government chose not to implement mandatory reporting for the infection, and when the summer of 2015 ended, so did any worries about Zika. There was enormous resistance to the idea that it could be Zika. Health authorities did not believe Zika would come to Brazil, says Luz. They underestimate the speed diseases spread around the world these days. Frustrated, the doctors decided to form their own group to study the virus. 03_11_Zika_01 Jaime Saldarriaga/Reuters The first signs that Brazil was facing a terrifying wave of birth defects came in August 2015, when neuropediatrician Vanessa van der Linden was called in for a consultation in Recife. A woman had just given birth to twin boys; one had a severe case of congenital microcephaly, which results in an abnormally small head that compromises cognitive function. The doctors could not find a cause for it. It was a private hospital, so I could investigate all the possible causes and do different kinds of tests, says van der Linden. But nothing showed up, Something was not right there, but I could not find what it was. At the time, it seemed to be an extraordinary occurrenceafter all, it was only one baby, a rare case. But two weeks later, during her regular rounds, van der Linden found three more babies with microcephaly. And in the next week, two more. I called my mother, who is also a neuropediatrician, and she had seven cases. It could not be a coincidence, says van der Linden. In just two weeks, the doctor encountered more than 15 cases of microcephaly, more than would normally be found in a whole year. At one point, van der Linden says, we had three cases in one night, when we would normally pass through four months without a single case. We had to investigate. Van der Linden was the first doctor to raise the alarm. She reached out to the Pernambuco Health Department. The authorities there searched the local hospitals and concluded that van der Linden was right: The registered cases of microcephaly were much higher than the year before, and none seemed to be due to the more common causes of the illness, such as rubella, cytomegalovirus, toxoplasmosis, HIV or parvovirus. The Ministry of Health in Brasilia was informed. Its response was to call in a team of one: Carlos Brito. Brito started simply. He asked questions, interviewed dozens of mothers, some as young as 14, who had recently given birth to babies with microcephaly so severe that the infants had constant seizures. It was a very painful and distressing time, says Brito. What could we say to them if we did not know exactly what was happening? We had to find an answer, and fast. After a few days of research, the doctor developed a theory: The microcephaly could be caused by the Zika virus. Brito had the evidence. The mothers were of all different ages, were not using similar medications and, perhaps most important, they came from very different places. The dispersal was too extensive, says Brito. It could not be an outbreak caused by a disease transmitted by saliva, such as rubella, or a sudden decline in immunity that would allow the spread of cytomegalovirus. It needed a vector. Every mother tested negative for the common causes of the illness, and every one had experienced the Zika symptoms of a rash and a fever during their first trimester, which coincided exactly with the early 2015 Zika outbreak. The fear of being right quarreled in Britos mind with the fear of being wrong. If it was Zika, there was the unimaginable potential that microcephaly could become as widespread as the common cold. Aedes aegypti is in every city in every part of Brazil, and for 30 years the country had triedand failedto control the pest. But if Brito was wrong, he could cause a panic and further delay the research needed to unearth the true cause of the microcephaly outburst. Brito called his colleague, Luz, to find out if he was seeing the same pattern in Rio Grande do Norte, where the first cases of Zika had been registered the previous year. In 12 hours, we found 11 cases, says Luz. And the time of the pregnancy could be traced to the beginning of the Zika outbreak. Still, the doctors could not find proof that the virus had infected any of the babies. Symptoms of Zika normally disappear after one or two days. The virus leaves no trace in the body except antibodies, the unique proteins organisms produce to fight an infectious disease, and at the time there was no test that could find the presence of the antibodies in blood samples from either mother or baby. When news began to spread that there might be a link between Zika and microcephaly, scientists through Brazil searched for signs in affected newborns. In Pernambuco, for example, the scientists at Fiocruz were applying a method called polymerase chain reaction to amplify traces of viral DNA in the hopes of locating Zika DNA remnants in the affected babies, but without success. The hunt was fruitless until a month later. Dr. Adriana Melo was treating two pregnant women with unborn babies who, in the womb, appeared to have abnormally small heads. Both fetuses also had stunted cerebellums (a part of the brain that controls the muscles, hearing and eyesight), not usually a symptom connected to congenital microcephaly. In 17 years as a doctor, I had never seen anything like that, says Melo. A few days later, I received a [text] in a researcher's group about the suspected link between microcephaly and Zika. And then it hit home: It was the only possible explanation. 03_11_Zika_02 Felipe Dana/AP Melo reached out to colleagues in search of a way to test the two women for Zika, but none of the private laboratories she typically used had the tools necessary. I did not have any contacts at the Ministry of Health and did not know the public ones that were beginning to research Zika. It took almost two months to find a way, Melo says. Eventually, a friend mentioned a researcher at Fiocruz. On the day of my birthday [November 5], she called me, says Melo. We talked for two hours, trying to figure a way to send amniotic liquid to Rio de Janeiro while my guests celebrated [my birthday] for me. When the results came back, Melos suspicions were confirmed: There were traces of Zika virus in the amniotic fluid. For the first time, the virus was found in contact with malformed newborns. This was what we needed to confirm the link between the microcephaly and Zika, says Brito. The Ministry of Health, however, considered the connection very likely but not confirmed. Two weeks later, on November 28, another Brazilian research foundation confirmed that their scientists had found the virus in the brain of a stillborn baby. The Brazilian Ministry of Health released a statement that day saying Zika was the cause of the microcephaly outbreak. It took another six weeks for the World Health Organization to issue a worldwide alert, despite the pleas of the Brazilian government, which had already declared a national health emergency. Urged on by an independent experts committee, the WHO finally decreed a global health emergency in February 2016. After weeks of sleepless nights, Britothe father of three young womencould finally breathe; the world had opened its eyes to the medical crisis that was first uncovered three months ago by a small group of doctors in northeast Brazil. Public health officials across the Americas are now working feverishly to devise some solution to Zika. There are the research projects that sound halfway between science and fiction, like releasing into the wild lab-made versions of Aedes aegypti that have been genetically modified to quickly render entire populations sterile, or using bacteria that live in the mosquitos gut as a sort of Trojan horse to deliver molecules that could shut off the insects ability to reproduce. There are the Hail Mary proposals, like bringing back DDT, a powerfully effective neurotoxic insecticide that has widely fallen out of favor since Rachel Carsons 1962 book, Silent Spring, revealed it caused environmental havoc. Then there are the more mundane answers, like providing citizens with the basic knowledge and tools (environmentally friendly insecticide) they need to avoid infection and recognize Zika if it arrives in their home. Another simple solution is to bring better family planning options, like birth control and legalized abortion, to parts of South America where women with unwanted pregnancies have no legal recourse. Giving women more control over their reproduction, many say, would alleviate the real concern: the heightened risk that an infected woman would give birth to a child stricken with microcephaly. Speaking of prophylacticsperhaps the real panacea would be a vaccine, distributed to every citizen of every troubled country. And it could be on its way; the U.S. National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, for one, is ramping up its efforts, focusing on adapting a West Nile virus vaccine that was recently successful in Phase I trials. Butanta, a Brazilian public lab, is in the last phase of a trial for a dengue vaccine in a partnership with NIH and they believe their protocol could be used to develop a vaccine for Zika. Fiocruz is working with a consortium of European labs to develop a vaccine as well. Big Pharma is looking into it too; Sanofi Pasteur, for example, has launched an initiative to leverage the work it has done with a recently approved dengue vaccine to quickly develop one for Zika. Quickly, though, is a relative term here. Realistically, a vaccine could take millions of dollars and several years to design, test and distribute. So far, there have been 3,893 suspected and 508 confirmed cases of microcephaly in Brazil; in 41 of these, the link to Zika infection has been verified. On February 19, the WHO announced that a group of researchers from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and a Brazilian biotechnology company in the northeastern states of Bahia and Paraiba had found evidence of the Zika virus in autopsies conducted on infants with microcephaly, further solidifying the connection between the two health issues. Nevertheless, conspiracy theories abound in Brazil about the true cause of the microcephaly outbreak, ranging from expired vaccines to the use of larvicides or transgenic mosquitoes. These are fed by the fact that other countries, such as Colombia, have found the presence of Zika but no microcephaly. We do not have all the answers yet, of course. It is an ongoing investigation, says Luz. Perhaps the virus had a mutation before coming to Brazil? What we cannot do is to wait months to be 100 percent sure. We have to do something now. Related Articles Donald Trump Real-estate magnate Donald Trump held his biggest lead yet in a CNN poll of Republican primary voters that was released Monday, a day ahead of the Super Tuesday presidential primaries and caucuses that Trump looks set to dominate. Trump had support from 49% of Republican and Republican-leaning voters nationally, according to the poll. That put him more than 30 points ahead of Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, who was at 16%, and Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas, who was at 15%. Retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson had 10% support in the poll, while Gov. John Kasich of Ohio rounded out the Republican field at 6%. Trump's number in the poll was up 8 points from last month, before the first caucuses and primaries of the election season. Rubio also saw an 8-point jump, while Cruz fell 4 points in the survey. The CNN survey provided Trump with a better standing than other recent polls. According to the RealClearPolitics average of recent national surveys, Trump has about a 16-point lead. Trump's rivals are scrambling to prevent him from running away with the Republican presidential nominations after his dominating victories in three of the first four voting states. Trump has strung off consecutive victories in New Hampshire, South Carolina, and Nevada ahead of Super Tuesday's contests, in which more than 10 states vote. Polls over the past week have shown Trump with wide leads in many of those states. He also has received new momentum from the high-profile endorsements of Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey and Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama. The CNN poll found that Trump's supporters were highly enthusiastic about the election season and largely committed to voting for him. Almost 80% of Trump supporters said they were more excited about voting this year than in past elections. And almost the same eight in 10 said they would definitely support him, compared with 57% for other candidates. The poll was conducted February 24-27, so it included two days of sampling both before and after last week's tense Republican presidential debate. Story continues NOW WATCH: FMR. CIA DIRECTOR: The US military is legally obligated to refuse Trumps proposed military action More From Business Insider Just as Donald Trump was telling everyone of a hostile, Hispanic judge who should have recused himself in a class action lawsuit over Trump University, his attorneys were asking that same judge to not allow Tarla Makaeff, the named plaintiff, to withdraw from the fight. The fraud lawsuit focuses on those who paid tens of thousands of dollars to attend seminars and receive "one-on-one mentorship" and "practical and fail-safe real estate techniques." The plaintiffs allege they didn't get all that was promised and are on the verge of a trial that could feature Trump himself taking the witness stand. The prospect of a presidential candidate defending himself at a fraud trial has now come up in televised debates, political ads and the stump speeches of Trump's rivals for the Republican nomination. On Feb. 8, Makaeff asked the judge's permission to leave the case. Her attorneys said she has "endured health problems, family loss and financial troubles in the years since this case began," and that although she realized Trump was a celebrity, "no one could have anticipated that he would become a viable presidential candidate and a 24/7 media obsession as this case neared trial." The legal papers also state she was grilled for more than 15 hours in a deposition and point to Trump's retaliatory "threats" and how "Makaeff cannot match, or even scratch, Trump's pulpit." On Friday, Trump's own attorneys filed an opposition to the motion. "Make no mistake: this would eviscerate much of what has transpired in this case and would cause irremediable prejudice to defendants," states Trump's legal brief. "Makaeff is the critical witness in this case." According to Trump's side, it's not fair for Makaeff to be featured in the complaint as well as the judge's decision to certify a class action and deny a summary judgment, and then let her out. "Makaeffs central role in this litigation even extended beyond the courtroom and also included prosecuting Plaintiffs claims in the press," Trump adds. "After filing this lawsuit, Makaeff embarked on a press tour to publicize her unproven allegations, conducting interviews with NBC, Newsweek, the San Francisco Chronicle and the New York Times." Story continues Trump's attorneys are clearly looking forward to cross-examining her at trial, and Trump's court papers are nearly as pugnacious as what the candidate says on the campaign trail. "Despite her education, Makaeff failed to achieve success in real estate," states the memorandum. "Discovery has confirmed this was due not to any failure by [Trump University], but to her own lack of effort. She simply did not put in the time, work and perseverance necessary to achieve success. In fact, in the one real estate investment she made, where she used her mothers money to invest in a deal in Las Vegas, Makaeff backed out of it and demanded her money back. As Makaeff later learned, if she had put in the effort and stuck with the investment, it would have yielded a $35,000 profit." Trump's attorneys say if Makaeff is not willing to attend trial, the case should be dismissed. The decision on whether she can sue-and-run is now in the hands of U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel, who was the focus of Trump's ire this past weekend. On Saturday, during a rally in Arkansas, Trump told the crowd, "Because it was me, and because there is a hostility towards me from the judge tremendous hostility beyond belief I believe he happens to be Spanish, which is fine. He's Hispanic, which is fine. And we haven't asked for a recusal, which we may do. But we have a judge who is very hostile." The following day on NBC's Meet the Press, moderator Chuck Todd asked, "Why would you need to ask for a recusal and what does his ethnicity have to do with it?" Trump answered, Well, because of the wall, and because of everything thats going with Mexico and all of that, I think its frankly look, this is a judge who has treated me very, very unfairly. This is a case that should have been thrown out a long time ago in the opinion of many great lawyers. Seven minutes to midnight. Five minutes to midnight. Three minutes to midnight. Last month, experts with the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists announced that the "Doomsday Clock," an iconic symbol meant to represent humanity's risk of facing global calamity, was stuck at 3 minutes to midnight, despite a historic climate agreement reached in Paris just a few months earlier. As part of their reasoning, the atomic bulletin scientists cited the nonbinding nature of those Paris climate accords, the rise of hostility between superpowers and the proliferation of more "modernized" nuclear weapons that may be more tempting to use. But the minute hand of the clock has been stuck just a snack break away from global apocalypse for decades. And the Doomsday Clock now encompasses more than just nuclear threats. [End of the World? Top 10 Doomsday Threats] Given that, the Doomsday Clock may not be the right tool to mobilize people to actually change things for the better, experts say. "I don't think that using apocalyptic rhetoric helps us to do the hard work of discussing difficult and complicated issues in a democracy," said Katherine Pandora, a history of science researcher at the University of Oklahoma. Powerful symbol, muddled message Originally conceived in 1947 by a cadre of former Manhattan Project physicists, the clock was meant to symbolize how close humans were to nuclear annihilation. And as a visceral and powerful symbol, it hit the mark. "All of us have experienced events in our lives when the matter of a few moments could change everything," Pandora told Live Science in an email. "The clock metaphor calls up associations with the gut-level emotional impact of living through those moments and their aftermath, adding to its power as a symbol." Now, however, the Doomsday Clock represents not just the threat of nuclear annihilation, but also the threat of global climate change, hostile killer robots, malevolent genetic engineering experiments and cyberterrorism. All those threats are legitimately frightening, but with such a grab bag of threats, the symbolism of the clock has been a bit muddied, said Anders Sandberg, a philosopher at the Future of Humanity Institute at the University of Oxford in England. Story continues "It's not an exact measure and it's also combining several things," Sandberg told Live Science. "It was perhaps much easier when they started, when it was just nuclear war, but since then we have gained other existential risks." From alarm to action What's more, focusing on the big picture may not be the most effective strategy for getting people to fix the problems. Solving nuclear proliferation is tricky enough; add in forestalling climate change meltdown, and many people feel paralyzed, Sandberg said. People typically do better with more bite-size challenges. For instance, adding buttons to prevent the accidental detonation of nuclear weapons was a small but significant step in avoiding nuclear war, Sandberg said. The clock's conflation of current risks is also tricky because it's not really a numerical risk estimate, Sandberg said. And the clock publishers don't explain how they factor in potential future risks, such as artificial intelligence, he added. "Without the right safeguards, it might be tremendously dangerous," Sandberg told Live Science. "With the right safeguards, it's probably the opposite; it's probably the best things you can imagine: Having smart systems that actually help us." Persistent panic The clock may be on target when it depicts how close humanity is to global catastrophe, Sandberg said. But persistently living on the precipice of destruction may inure people to the justifiably scary threats the Bulletin hopes to emphasize, Sandberg said. "You can't live your life at 3 minutes to midnight," Sandberg said. Pandora thinks the clock could even be counterproductive. "Having authorities state that an emergency is at hand is an effective way to gain someone's attention and have them primed to take immediate action, which is the logic behind the clock's minutes-to-midnight gambit," Pandora said. "Asking successive generations of people to sustain a constant sense of emergency is a contradiction in terms. The unintended effects of this directive can impede a successful resolution of the issue at hand and undermine the working relationship between experts and nonexperts." While the Doomsday Clock itself may not be an effective symbol, that doesn't mean all the work put into creating it is useless, she said. "It is the prodigious amount of research and analysis that ground the conclusions in the reports that the [Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists] issues that are the real tools for mobilizing discussion among all of us on critical issues," Pandora said. Follow Tia Ghose on Twitterand Google+. Follow Live Science @livescience, Facebook & Google+. Original article on Live Science. Copyright 2016 LiveScience, a Purch company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Thousands of small, sharp, spearlike objects scattered throughout Easter Island have long been presumed to be evidence of massive warfare that led to the demise of its ancient civilization. But new evidence from archaeological investigations suggests that these objects, called mata'a, were not used as weapons at all. Easter Island is a tiny landmass located about 2,300 miles (3,700 kilometers) off the coast of Chile. The remote volcanic island, also known as Rapa Nui, has been at the center of fierce debates in both academia and popular culture. Polynesians first arrived on the island in the 13th century, and Rapa Nuis early inhabitants were famous for the enormous stone statues (called moai) that they built and placed on the coastline. More than 900 of these majestic statues were found on the island so many that scholars have argued that there must have been tens of thousands of residents on Easter Island at one point but so far, scientists and historians have not been able to agree on what caused the collapse of its society. [Image Gallery: The Walking Statues of Easter Island] Popular belief held that massive internal warfare led to the populations catastrophic collapse. This grim outcome became a cautionary tale of the overuse of limited resources and eventual self-destruction. But, in the past decade or so, this understanding has been challenged by archaeologists whose research points to a different story in which disease and slavery introduced by Europeans were the more likely cause of the Polynesian societys decline. By carefully examining more than 400 mata'a, collecting photographs and analyzing their shape using a technique known as morphometric analysis, researchers have added new evidence to this line of thinking. The mata'a have lots of different shapes, said lead study author Carl Lipo, an anthropologist at Binghamton University in New York. Some of them are roundish, some of them are square and some are kind of triangular. Story continues The mata'a would not have made good weapons, Lipo said. For one, they are not sharp, and not all of the mata'a are pointed. They are also too thick and asymmetrical for piercing lethal wounds, and the wear patterns on these objects suggest that they were used to scrape and cut things, rather than puncture vital organs, he said. Moreover, other evidence of systemic warfare on the island is mysteriously absent, according to the researchers. For instance, archaeological digs on Easter Island have not uncovered traces of lethal skull trauma, severed limbs or mass graves, Lipo said. Nor did scientists find defensive fortlike structures common on other islands in the Pacific with a history of warfare, such as Fiji and New Zealand. Theres no question that theres going to be competition on the island, Lipo told Live Science. It is an island with finite resources. But the interesting thing is that it doesnt appear to have led to lethal violence. All of this evidence suggests that the small population of 3,000 that was living on the island when Europeans first arrived in 1722 wasnt a relic of a much greater civilization. In fact, the Rapa Nui society probably flourished until well after initial European contact, according to Mara Mulrooney, an anthropologist at the Bishop Museum in Honolulu, who also studies the Rapa Nui civilization but was not involved with the new research. The researchers morphometric analysis of mata'a lends further empirical support to the notion that Rapa Nui is an example of success rather than collapse, Mulrooney told Live Science in an email. The Rapa Nui mata'a were probably general-purpose tools used for agricultural practices such as lithic mulching, ritual sacrifice and tattooing, Lipo said. These peaceful activities actually make more sense in an archaeological context because on such a small, isolated island, people would have had to learn to deal with their problems and mitigate group-level competition, he added. You cant afford to escalate to killing because theres no way to escape the cost of killing, Lipo said. Warfare would have killed everybody. If the Rapa Nui civilization was successful on the remote island, the next question archaeologists need to answer is how these people created a sustainable community, Lipo said. The mystery is actually more interesting now, he said, because now, we have something to learn. The new study was published online Feb. 17 in the journal Antiquity. Follow Knvul Sheikh on Twitter @KnvulS. Follow Live Science @livescience, Facebook & Google+. Original article on Live Science. Copyright 2016 LiveScience, a Purch company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Brussels (AFP) - The European Union and Canada announced a major breakthrough towards completing a delayed free trade deal on Monday with hopes that the accord could be in effect next year. Canadian and European leaders formally concluded the deal in 2014, but implementation has been delayed due to last-minute objections in Europe over provisions to create an investment protection system that would help protect companies from government intervention. This system is key to a similar but far more ambitious agreement currently under negotiation between the EU and US and has drawn fierce criticism, especially in powerful Germany where hundreds of thousands of people rallied in October to oppose both accords. Opponents say the measure favours big business, which could fight local rulings -- such as health and safety regulations -- that violate the trade deal and threaten their investments. "Canada and the European Commission are very pleased to announce that the legal review of the Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA) ... has been completed," EU Trade Commissioner Cecilia Malmstroem and Canada's Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland said in a statement. "We are confident that CETA will be signed in 2016 and enter into force in 2017," they said. The new deal includes important modifications to the contested investor protection system, including leaving more power to governments to regulate freely and the creation of a full-fledged court that would handle complaints. "This is really a gold plated trade deal," Canada's Freeland said at a briefing in Ottawa, calling it a "landmark trade agreement". Canada signing off on the changes is a significant victory for the European Commission, which is facing huge pressure to have the US agree to the same offer. "This is virtually 100 percent what we have proposed to the United States," a senior EU official told AFP. The measures are also being inserted into a draft EU-Vietnam deal reached last year, with the long-term ambition of having the new court system become universal and not just limited to EU deals. The EU is second only to the United States among Canada's trading partners, while Canada ranks as the 12th most important trading partner for the EU. By Barbara Lewis BRUSSELS (Reuters) - EU regulators will say this week the European Union does not need to set a more ambitious greenhouse gas target until the next decade, a text seen by Reuters shows, even though the Paris climate deal stipulates a preliminary review of goals in 2018. Such a decision would please member state Poland, whose economy relies on coal, but anger environment campaigners, who see the Paris Agreement, agreed in December, as an argument for the European Union to step up its climate action. So far, the EU has agreed an outline target to cut emissions by at least 40 percent by 2030 from 1990 levels and has embarked on a difficult debate on sharing the task among its 28 member states. A draft prepared ahead of a meeting of EU environment ministers in Brussels on Friday says the existing target "is based on global projections that are in line with the medium-term ambition of the Paris Agreement". Following Friday's meeting, EU heads of government will meet later this month to discuss their actions following the Paris deal, which the Commission is urging them to ratify as soon as possible. The draft text added a first global stock-take in 2023 of emissions reductions, as agreed in Paris, "is relevant for considering progressively more ambitious action by all parties for the period beyond 2030". That stock-take is expected to be preceded by a special U.N. report in 2018 and governments in Paris agreed to an initial review of their actions before the next decade to get on track for net zero emissions in the second half of the century. Speaking on condition of anonymity, EU sources said the text was still a draft and the European Commission would contribute to the 2018 dialogue on emissions goals, although the 2023 deadline was more significant. Environmental campaigners in December hailed the Paris Agreement as a step towards early revision, especially as the EU target was worded "at least" on the understanding that if other countries backed a global deal, Europe would do more. EU policy has been calculated on the basis of a 2 degree limit on global warming, which campaigners and some scientists say is not enough to prevent the worst effects. The Paris Agreement said planet-warming needed to be capped at well below 2 degrees Celsius (3.6 degrees Fahrenheit) and set an aspirational goal of 1.5 degrees. French President Francois Hollande said immediately after the deal he engaged on behalf of France to revise its greenhouse gas goals by 2020 at the latest. However, Hollande's presidential term ends in 2017. EU Climate and Energy Commissioner Miguel Arias Canete was more circumspect, saying setting new European targets was a job for the next Commission that takes office in 2019. (Additional reporting by Alister Doyle in Oslo; Editing by Susan Fenton and Susan Thomas) London (AFP) - Everton midfielder Muhamed Besic has signed a new five-and-a-half-year contract, the Premier League club announced on Monday. Besic has been rewarded for some impressive displays since moving to Goodison Park from Hungarian outfit Ferencvaros in 2014. The Bosnia international had already this season triggered a clause in his existing contract which entitled him to a 12-month extension by reaching 25 league appearances for the club, but Everton manager Roberto Martinez was keen to tie the player down to a much longer term. It is more good news for the club in the wake of the weekend's investment by Iranian billionaire Farhad Moshiri, who bought a 49.9 percent stake in the Toffees. "I'm really happy to have signed a new contract with a club such as Everton," Besic told the club's website. "After a year and a half with the club it makes me proud that they have given me a new deal." Neubrandenburg (Germany) (AFP) - Former SS medic Hubert Zafke, 95, faces trial Monday for aiding in 3,681 murders in Auschwitz during the period when teenage diarist Anne Frank was interned in the Nazi death camp. The trial is part of Germany's twilight bid to bring to justice the last surviving perpetrators of the Holocaust, focused on about a dozen people who were cogs in the killing machine. The case against Zafke centres on his service as an SS medical orderly from August 15 to September 14, 1944 in the vast Auschwitz-Birkenau camp in Nazi-occupied Poland where an estimated 1.1 million people perished. Prosecutors charge that, by serving there, Zafke "knew of and willingly supported the industrially organised mass killing of people in an insidious and cruel manner". During the month-long period, 14 trains arrived at Auschwitz, delivering prisoners from across Europe to its slave labour camps and gas chambers. One of the trains brought the family of Anne Frank, whose diary about her Jewish family's life in hiding in Amsterdam has moved millions and remains a worldwide bestseller. Anne Frank survived Auschwitz but died in Bergen-Belsen, shortly before its 1945 liberation by the British Army. Zafke, a farmer's son who joined the Nazi party's elite police force the Waffen-SS at age 19 and initially fought on the eastern front, had also served as an officer at Auschwitz from October 1943 to January 1944. After World War II, a Polish court in 1948 sentenced him to a four-year jail term from which he was released in 1951. During his time as a medical orderly -- a job that entailed giving lethal injections to inmates -- Zafke has claimed to have only performed first aid and treated prisoners. He has told investigators he had no clue Auschwitz was an extermination camp and thought the crematoriums were heating plants. - Symbolic sentence - Holocaust survivors and their children from various countries are expected to attend Zafke's trial in Neubrandenburg, 130 kilometres (80 miles) north of Berlin. Story continues Zafke has since 1951 lived near the town, in what became communist East Germany after World War II. He raised four sons and worked as a pest controller at a local mill until his retirement. Zafke will be defended by Peter-Michael Diestel, who served as East Germany's last interior minister and opened a private law practice in the years after the 1989 fall of the Berlin Wall. If found guilty, Zafke faces three to 15 years in prison, in what may be a largely symbolic sentence given his advanced age. Medical experts will first be asked to assess whether Zafke is fit to stand trial when the hearing starts at 0900 GMT. Prosecutors had requested the judges be recused, fearing the panel was biased towards declaring Zafke unfit to stand trial -- but the court rejected the request. The court had earlier ruled against a trial, finding that Zafke was suffering from dementia, but an appeals court overturned that decision. It found that, despite his "cognitive impairments" and diminished physical capacity, the defendant could be granted regular breaks and close medical supervision. Given Zafke's advanced age, the court has only set an initial two further trial dates, March 14 and 30. - Mass killings - For many decades, Germany only tried Nazi officers for atrocities they personally committed and usually required eye-witness testimony for a conviction. However, a new legal precedent was set in the 2009-2011 trial of John Demjanjuk, a Ukrainian-born guard at the Sobibor death camp in occupied Poland, who was convicted at age 91 of having aided in the mass killings. Last July, 94-year-old Oskar Groening, known as the "bookkeeper of Auschwitz," was sentenced to four years in prison for being an accessory to the murders of 300,000 people at the camp. Around a dozen more cases are pending or under investigation, authorities say. One million European Jews died between 1940 and 1945 at the Auschwitz camp in the southern Polish city of Oswiecim, before it was liberated by Soviet forces. More than 100,000 others were also killed there, including non-Jewish Poles, Roma, gays and lesbians, Soviet prisoners of war and anti-Nazi resistance fighters. By Thomas Escritt AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - A former trainee teacher accused of damaging monuments in the name of Islam in the ancient Malian city of Timbuktu will stand before the International Criminal Court on Tuesday for a hearing to decide if he should face a landmark trial. Malian citizen Ahmad al-Faqi al-Mahdi is the first person to be accused of destroying cultural artifacts by prosecutors at the court, which has previously focused on human rights abuses. The ICC has been examining events in Mali since 2012, when Tuareg rebels seized part of the north, imposing a strict interpretation of Islamic law. French and Malian troops pushed them back the following year. Prosecutors say al-Mahdi, an ethnic Tuareg, helped lead a "morality squad" linked to the Islamic Court of Timbuktu. It damaged nine mausoleums and the ancient Sidi Yahia mosque, which dates from the 15th century, when Timbuktu was a trading hub and seat of learning. Al-Mahdi, a goateed college graduate with a shock of tightly curled black hair behind rimless spectacles, cut a very different figure in the courtroom from the politicians and warlords who have stood trial there until now. The court has divided opinion since it was established 13 years ago. Critics say it has often targeted the politically weak and its conviction rate is low, while supporters say the sentences it has handed out have served as deterrents. "The conviction of (Congolese warlord) Thomas Lubanga arguably had a deterrent effect on the use of child soldiers," said Bill Schabas, professor at Britain's Middlesex University. "Maybe this will do the same for cultural monument destruction." At Tuesday's confirmation of charges hearing, prosecutors must convince ICC judges that they have marshaled enough evidence to warrant a full trial on charges of directing the partial destruction of the buildings. Prosecutors also accuse him of belonging to the Ansar Dine militant group, an ally of Al Qaeda in the Maghreb. Al-Mahdi, who at his first appearance at the ICC in September described himself as a graduate of Timbuktu teachers institute, denies the charges. While trials at international tribunals generally concern massacres and genocide, the destruction of cultural heritage has often shocked global public opinion. The ICC has been urged to charge Islamic State fighters for destroying the remains of the ancient city of Palmyra, but it is unable to do so because Syria is not a member of the court. The Taliban's destruction of the 1,500-year old Buddhas of Bamiyan in Afghanistan in 2001 also attracted condemnation. The Yugoslavia war crimes tribunal, which also sits in The Hague, has prosecuted the destruction of heritage sites, including during the bombardment of Mostar and Dubrovnik, both Unesco World Heritage sites like Timbuktu. (Reporting By Thomas Escritt; editing by John Stonestreet) Tokyo (AFP) - Three former executives of the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant operator were indicted Monday over the 2011 atomic accident, in what will be the first criminal trial linked to the disaster. Ex-Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO) chairman Tsunehisa Katsumata, and former vice presidents Sakae Muto and Ichiro Takekuro were formally charged with professional negligence resulting in deaths and injury for their role in the crisis. The trio were not taken into custody. "I'm full of emotion," Ruiko Muto, head of a campaign group pushing for a trial, told a Tokyo press briefing. "This will be a great encouragement for hundreds of thousands of nuclear accident victims who are still suffering and facing hardship," she added. A judicial review panel composed of ordinary citizens ruled in July -- for the second time since the accident -- that the three men should be put on trial. The decision compelled prosecutors to press on with the criminal case under Japanese law. Prosecutors had twice refused to press charges against the men, citing insufficient evidence and little chance of conviction. It will be the first criminal trial over responsibility for the tsunami-sparked reactor meltdowns that forced thousands from their homes in the world's worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986. It is expected to take at least six months for the first trial to start, said Yuichi Kaido, a lawyer representing the campaigner group. The trio face jail time of up to five years in prison or a penalty of up to one million yen ($8,850) if convicted. Public broadcaster NHK said the former executives would plead not guilty, arguing it was impossible to predict the size of the massive tsunami that slammed into Japan's northeast coast. Although the March 11 earthquake and tsunami killed 18,500 people, the nuclear disaster it caused is not officially recorded as having directly killed anyone. The charges are linked to the deaths of more than 40 hospitalised patients who were hastily evacuated from the area and later died. Story continues Around a dozen others -- including TEPCO employees and members of Japan's Self Defense Forces -- were injured during the accident. - 'Major step forward' - Environmental group Greenpeace said the decision to press on with a criminal case was "a major step forward". "The court proceedings that will now follow should reveal the true extent of TEPCO's and the Japanese regulatory system's enormous failure to protect the people of Japan," said Hisayo Takada, deputy programme director at the organisation's Japan office. A report by the International Atomic Energy Agency last year said a misguided faith in the complete safety of atomic power was a key factor in the Fukushima accident. It pointed to weaknesses in disaster preparedness and in plant design, along with unclear responsibilities among regulators. A 2012 parliamentary report also said Fukushima was a man-made disaster caused by Japan's culture of "reflexive obedience", but no one has been punished criminally. An angry public pointed to cosy ties among the government, regulators and nuclear operators that allegedly insulated TEPCO's executives from being charged. Campaigners have called for about three dozen company officials to be held accountable for their failure properly to protect the site against the tsunami. The accident at Fukushima forced the shutdown of dozens of reactors across Japan, with a handful now having been restarted. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and utility companies are still pushing to get reactors back in operation, nearly five years after the crisis. But anti-nuclear sentiment remains high in Japan and there is widespread opposition to restarts. As many observers have pointed out, Apples battle with the FBI over encryption and whether or not it can be forced to help the FBI hack into a terrorists iPhone has largely been a PR battle. Just last week, for instance, we saw FBI director James Comey write a blog post defending the FBIs position while framing the issue as being about justice for the victims of the December terrorist attack that killed 14 people. Shortly thereafter, Tim Cook sat down for an in-depth 30 minute interview on ABCs World News Tonight where the Apple CEO boldly said that the FBI wants Apple to create the software equivalent of cancer. For as heated as the debate between Apple and the FBI has been in the public sphere, its interesting to note that tension between the two parties was beginning to boil over even weeks before this became a story of national if not global interest. DONT MISS: The best thing about Apples new iPhone SE might not be the phone itself According to a recent report in The New York Times, Tim Cook traveled to Washington D.C. last month for a private meeting with FBI director James Comey, a smattering of influential tech figures, and top national security officials from the Obama administration. When the topic turned to mobile device encryption, Tim Cook flatly said that encryption was here to stay while intimating that law enforcement officials would need to find a way to adapt to that harsh reality. What followed next could have seemingly been lifted straight out of the pages of an Aaron Sorkin political thriller. James B. Comey Jr., the director of the F.B.I., and Attorney General Loretta E. Lynch pushed back, but Mr. Cook stood firm, several participants said. With all due respect, Mr. Cook told those around the table, including Mr. Obamas counterterrorism chief and the heads of the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security, I think there has been a lack of leadership in the White House on this. Denis R. McDonough, the presidents chief of staff, took exception and said so. Law enforcement officials described him as stung by what they called Mr. Cooks rant, although tech executives in the room insisted that Apples chief executive was respectful. Story continues As Dave Mark of The Loop writes, this divide might have been inevitable, but this looks like a core moment when the discussion moved from amiable to adversarial. While we of course have no way to know for sure, this certainly seems like a reasonable assumption to make. Indeed, Apple has repeatedly tried to hammer home the notion that Congress, and not the courts, should be the ones deciding the extent to which technology companies can be forced to assist law enforcement agencies in their investigations. In a FAQ on the matter posted to Apples website last week, the company laid out its vision for how things would ideally proceed: Our country has always been strongest when we come together. We feel the best way forward would be for the government to withdraw its demands under the All Writs Act and, as some in Congress have proposed, form a commission or other panel of experts on intelligence, technology, and civil liberties to discuss the implications for law enforcement, national security, privacy, and personal freedoms. Apple would gladly participate in such an effort. Related stories Read what Apple's attorney will say to Congress when Tuesday's iPhone hacking case begins Report says iPhone 7's killer feature will only be found on the most expensive models 12 paid iPhone apps on sale for free for a limited time More from BGR: Report says iPhone 7s killer feature will only be found on the most expensive models This article was originally published on BGR.com Labels like Michael Kors, Burberry, Tom Ford and more have already taken the plunge, putting new pieces on sale right after their catwalk previews. On the other hand, Karl Lagerfeld, Fendi's Pietro Beccari and Carlo Capasa, president of the National Chamber of Italian Fashion (Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana), are more reticent, expressing doubts about what they consider a threat to creativity. Editor in chief of Paris Modes TV, Sophie de Champsavin, spoke to some of fashion's heavyweights at Milan Fashion Week about the trend for "see now, buy now." The fashion world is currently debating whether collections should go on sale immediately after their catwalk previews or six months down the line, as is the current tradition. "We could create ten or so looks which would be available immediately in stores, but the bulk of the collection should continue to arrive a little bit later," suggests Pietro Beccari, CEO of Fendi. This strategy has already been adopted by Prada, which unveiled the Cahier and Pionniere handbags last Thursday then put them on sale immediately in the world's fashion capitals. Design is an art that takes time According to Carlo Capasa, president of the National Chamber of Italian Fashion, it all depends whether labels want to create desire or satisfy a need. "If you are a label that inspires dreams, then you need time to work on that properly," he added. Karl Lagerfeld denounces "an immense waste" and a "distortion of the dialogue" between a brand and its customers, which could, in turn, reduce their "desire." Just a few days ago, the biggest names in French fashion rejected a schedule change for the Paris shows -- a first step towards change -- in a show of their skepticism for the "see now, buy now" model. Carlo Capasa added: "disrupting the attention and creativity of designers could have a negative impact on quality." This opinion is shared by Pietro Beccari, who is convinced that, despite a certain risk of deja-vu, "customers are still prepared to wait to get things that are well made, carefully thought through and creative." The digital age spells change for the luxury industry Karl Lagerfeld highlighted that a widespread switch to this new model in the fashion world would create another problem. "There will no longer be enough time to photograph the collections. And if we do it prior to release, there will be leaks," said The Kaiser, whose collections are often prized by counterfeiters. He went on, "the digital world introduces permanent policing and visual surveillance." More optimistically, Pietro Beccari considers that, as well as speeding things up, the digital world brings greater transparency: "We no longer have the right to [hide anything], and we no longer want to hide anything," he summed up. Beirut (AFP) - The Islamic State has executed eight Dutch members of the jihadist group, whom it accused of trying to desert, activists said Monday. "Daesh (IS) executed eight Dutch fighters on Friday in Maadan, Raqa province, after accusing them of attempting desertion and mutiny," Abu Mohammad, a member of the citizen journalist group Raqa is Being Slaughtered Silently (RBSS), said via Twitter. RBSS has been documenting since April 2014 IS' abuses in Raqa, the group's de facto capital in northern Syria. Tension has boiled in Raqa over the past month between 75 Dutch jihadists -- among them fighters of Moroccan origin -- and IS intelligence operatives from Iraq, RBSS said. Three other Dutch jihadists were arrested by Iraqi IS members who accused them of wanting to flee and one of the detainees was beaten to death during the interrogation, according to RBSS. IS leaders in Raqa sent a delegate to solve the dispute with the Dutch cell's enraged members, but they murdered the intermediary in vengeance, the citizen journalist group added. The IS leadership in Iraq then ordered the arrest of all the members of the Dutch group, and imprisoned them in Tabaqa and Maadan in Syria. Eight have since been executed, RBSS said. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the conflict, could not confirm the report. However it said three European jihadists of North African origin were executed in what IS calls the Wilayet al-Furat -- an area stretching across the Syrian-Iraqi frontier. According to the Dutch secret services, 200 people from the Netherlands including 50 women have joined IS in Syria and Iraq. By Alastair Macdonald BRUSSELS (Reuters) - Britain's deal with the European Union is legally binding and irreversibly enshrined in treaty, Prime Minister David Cameron says; opponents, including his own justice minister, a personal friend, say it is not. In a sense both are right. The measures Cameron agreed with the other 27 EU national leaders was in the form of a Decision of the heads of state and government in the European Council. That has legal force and Britain has lodged the agreement as an international treaty at the United Nations. But full implementation faces hurdles: EUROPEAN COMMISSION DRAFTS LAWS A politically important part of the package, letting Cameron keep an election pledge to cut tax credits and family support for EU immigrants, is to be implemented by legislation drafted by the European Commission and passed by the European Parliament in negotiation with the national governments in the Council. The Commission has outlined its plan and leaders of the main parliamentary party groups have endorsed it. But the Commission will only present its full legislative proposals after Britain votes to stay. The whole package vanishes if it votes to leave. The Commission is obliged to draft laws in line with Council decisions. Unusually, it has already outlined plans to legislate to curb abuse of EU free movement rules, to revise child benefit rules and introduce a safeguard mechanism -- commonly known as the "emergency brake" -- to allow discriminatory cuts in migrant workers' benefits in exceptional circumstances. It also declared to the summit that Britain met the criteria to apply the brake. EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT PASSES LAWS The speaker and representatives of three major parties in the European Parliament were involved in negotiating the package and undertook to support the necessary legislation. However, the legislature insists it cannot guarantee a majority to approve Commission drafts it will not see until after the referendum. Leaders of the centre-right, centre-left and liberal blocs represent nearly two thirds of Parliament's 751 seats. But party discipline in the single-chamber legislature is weak and often fractures on national lines. Cameron should expect additional support from his own 20 Conservatives -- though they are split on whether to stay in the EU -- and from other smaller parties. There is strong support in Parliament for keeping Britain in the EU, but it will not review the necessary legislation until after the referendum. The centre-left leader said last week that he disliked discriminating against EU migrants. East European MEPs dislike compatriots being seen as second-class citizens. Once EU law is passed, in a complex process involving the further input of national ministers, the British parliament would have to pass its own laws in line with the EU directives. EUROPEAN COURT OF JUSTICE HEARS COMPLAINTS The EU's highest court, hearing complaints that national law or judges have abused citizens' treaty rights, has made several rulings lately in support of rich states' efforts to curb "benefit tourism" by EU citizens migrating from poorer states. Those have tightened rules to restrict free movement in the EU to workers -- limitations underlined by the Council decision. Much of Cameron's package is to clarify and interpret the EU treaties for the benefit of the judges. As "fathers and mothers" of the treaties, the interpretations of the national leaders in Council must be taken account of by ECJ judges in Luxembourg. They say the emergency brake is a temporary (seven years) and proportionate limitation to basic rights, in line with treaties. While the package cannot formally be "pre-approved" by the supreme court, senior officials say lawyers from the Court and other EU bodies are in regular contact and argue it is unusual for judges to overrule explicit Council interpretations. But EU officials also say they cannot guarantee how judges will rule. Any court challenge by a citizen to rulings under laws yet to be passed would be some years off, long after the referendum. EUROPEAN ELECTORS RATIFY TREATY CHANGES Two elements of the package, on financial relations between non-euro states like Britain and the euro zone and on a special exemption for Britain from further EU political integration, are to be written into EU treaties when these are next revised. The decision cites writing the "substance" of the agreements into treaties, leaving precise wording to be decided by later Councils. No one knows when the next treaty revision might be. All 28 states would need to ratify amendments. Many can do so in national parliaments. But others, among them France, need a referendum. And voters across Europe seem liable to vote down any measure perceived as promoted by the elites in Brussels. So while future treaty drafters are legally bound to do what the Council decision on Britain says, it is not clear how or when treaties will be amended or if the changes can be ratified. EUROPEAN COUNCIL FRAMES LAWS The European Council, comprising the 28 national leaders, can always change its mind and reverse itself -- though as most such decisions must be unanimous, Britain can veto such a move. (Editing by Gareth Jones) Geneva (AFP) - The family of an Israeli man who went missing in 2014 after crossing into the Gaza Strip appealed Monday to the international community to help bring him home. Avraham Mengistu, a 29-year-old Israeli of Ethiopian descent, was deeply depressed and suffering from mental problems when he wandered unarmed across the border to Gaza a year and a half ago, they said. Israel's defence ministry has determined that Mengistu was held by Hamas after illegally crossing the border, but the Islamist movement governing Gaza has provided no information about his whereabouts or condition. "We are kept in the dark," the man's 30-year-old brother Gashao told AFP during a visit to Geneva, with a representative of Israel's mission to the United Nations serving as translator. His father Ayaline sat next to him, looking anxious and drawn, and his mother Agurnesh sat nearby, weeping quietly. The family, who live in the southern city of Ashkelon near the Gaza border, had travelled to Geneva to meet with diplomats and groups and appeal to them to put pressure on Hamas "to do the right thing," Gashao said. With his parents sitting nearby looking anxious and drawn, Gashao insisted "the international community has influence over Hamas." "They can help this go beyond politics. It is a human rights and a humanitarian issue," he said. "When Hamas is asking for humanitarian assistance, and contributions to the people in Gaza, then the international community should tell them: don't expect us to assist you when you are violating the same rights of the other side," Gashao said. "We are talking about an innocent civilian. He's not a soldier. He was never a soldier," he said. He explained that Avraham, distraught after the death of another brother and hospitalised several times for mental problems, had been exempt from Israeli military service. The family rejected reports that they had previously been angry with the Israeli military's reaction to Avraham's disappearance and had claimed that more effort would have been put into finding him if he were white. Story continues Members of Israel's 135,000-strong ethnic Ethiopian community say they suffer from discrimination. But Gashao said this was not an issue in this case: " The government is doing what it can." Israel does not allow its citizens to enter Gaza, partly over fears that they may be used as bargaining chips to demand concessions, including the release of prisoners. In 2011, Israel released more than 1,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for soldier Gilad Shalit, who had been held by Hamas for five years. Leap Year 2016: What you need to know A leap year, where an extra day is added to the end of February, happens every four years. Pope Gregory XIII coined the term leap year in 1582. He declared that a year that is divisible by 100, but not by 400, is not a leap year. So, 2000 was a leap year under the Gregorian calendar, as was 1600. But 1700, 1800 and 1900 were not. It takes the Earth a year to fully circumnavigate the sun, which is approximately 365 days, 5 hours, 48 minutes and 47 seconds. Every four years an extra day is added to February, the month with the fewest days, to keep our calendars on track. So leap years are necessary in order to align our modern day Gregorian calendar year with the solar year. Under Julius Caesar, February had 30 days and the month named after himJulyhad 31. August had only 29 days. When Caesar Augustus became Emperor he added two days to his month to make August the same as July. If we didnt add an extra day every four years, we would lose approximately six hours from our calendar each year. February 29 is the day to propose According to research by relationship website eHarmony.co.uk, around 150,000 women in Britain who are currently dating or in a relationship plan to pop the question to their partner. The tradition dates back to 5th century Ireland, when St. Brigid complained to St. Patrick that women had to wait too long for men to pop the question. St. Patrick suggested that women should be allowed to defy convention, and propose on 29 February; leap days. Others believe the tradition originates in 1288 when Queen Margaret of Scotland, then aged just five, declared that a woman could propose to any man she liked on February 29. If the man refused, he would be forced to pay a fine: a kiss,one pound, a silk dress, or 12 pairs of gloves. February 29 should be a bank holiday There is a British campaign to make February 29 a bank holiday given that the average salaried employee is losing out on 113 during a leap year as the additional days work is unpaid according to a public petition to the UK Parliament. Story continues While in the U.S., Karl Savage, a high school teacher from Maryland, tried to kick-start a global No Work on Leap Day Revolution in 2008, when the extra day fell on a Friday. Unfortunately, support for the proposal was limited. The No Work on Leap Day Revolution Facebook page has just 168 likes. The petition itself currently has 440 signatories. Leap Year superstitions One in five engaged couples in Greece avoid getting married in a leap year because they believe its bad luck. In Italy proverbs like anno bisesto, anno funesto meaning leap year, doom year warn against planning significant life events in a leap year. In Russia it is believed a leap year is likely to generate strange weather patterns and a greater risk of death. Beans and peas planted in a leap year will grow the wrong way according to farming folklore. An old Scottish proverb also suggests that leap years are bad for farming and livestock in particular: Leap year was neer a good sheep year. Paris (AFP) - When doctors told Christophe Novou that his leg would have to be amputated at the hip due to a raging bacterial infection, the 47-year-old Frenchman thought about killing himself. After surviving a crippling traffic accident and dozens of operations to repair the damage, to him life in a wheelchair just did not seem worth living. That's when an article about a clinic in Georgia offering an obscure treatment for hard-to-treat infections using live virus -- something called phage therapy -- caught his eye. Within hours, he was on a plane to Tblisi. "Without it, I wouldn't be here," Novou told AFP on the sidelines of a conference in Paris about the mostly forgotten therapy, which remains marginal outside a few former Soviet bloc countries. The treatment harnesses viruses called phages to attack and kill dangerous bacteria, including "superbugs" which have become progressively resistant to antibiotics. In Novou's case, it was Staphylococcus, a common bacteria which can cause anything from a simple boil to horrible flesh-eating infections. Mostly ignored up to now by mainstream medicine, the alternative treatment has started to gain adherents over the last 15 years, especially in France, Belgium and the United States. The renewed interest is partly driven by a problem which the World Health Organization (WHO) recently described as a "global health crisis": the dramatic rise of antibiotic-resistant strains of deadly pathogens. WHO chief Margaret Chan warned last November of a "post-antibiotic era" in which common infections will become killers once more. - Show us the money - "Phage therapy is especially effective for infections that affect bones and articulation, but can also be used for urinary, pulmonary and eye infections," said Alain Dublanchet, a doctor at the forefront of the movement to resurrect the treatment in France. Discovered during World War I and developed during the 1920s and 1930s, it has few undesirable side-effects. Story continues Dublanchet, now retired, claims to have cured at least 15 patients of infections they contracted mainly after road accidents, and for whom antibiotics did not work. Treatment usually lasts a few weeks, and is generally far less expensive than last-resort antibiotics which can cost tens of thousands of dollars or euros. Pharmaceutical companies have shown little interest in phage therapy, in large part because viruses cannot be patented, according to participants at the Paris conference. "The laboratories have turned their back on this because the return on investment is just too small," said Jean Carlet, an expert on infectious diseases and a consultant for the WHO. A few startups have invested in phage therapy, which the European Union classified as a medicine in 2011. But the cycle of drug trials can easily take a decade, so these are long-term -- and perhaps long-shot -- investments. To date no virus used in phage therapy has been approved as a treatment. "It will take years and a lot of money," said Jean-Paul Pirnay, a doctor at the Reine Astrid military hospital in Brussels, one of few actively researching the technique outside the ex-Soviet bloc. Because phage therapy is not recognised in France, Dublanchet and other practitioners -- working in a grey zone -- often wind up going to eastern Europe to procure the viruses. In the United States, the only phages on the market are used in the anti-bacterial treatment of food products. The EU has launched a clinical trial called "Phagoburn" to test the effectiveness of virus-based treatments on victims of severe burns. Half of a group of 220 participants are to be treated with established techniques, and the other half with phage therapy. Temporary authorisation for phage therapy may be granted in France "if the products are of sufficient quality and there is a presumption of efficacy," said Caroline Semaille, a spokeswoman for ANSM, the French government agency that monitors drug approval and use. Novou spent 8,000 euros ($8,700) on going to Tbilisi in 2013 for his treatment, but has no regrets. Dozens, perhaps hundreds, of other French people with similar problems have done the same, said Dublanchet, and most come back in better shape. "It's not a matter of replacing antibiotics with phage therapy," he said. "They should be complimentary." Dublanchet also warned of the possible spread of therapeutic viruses into the environment, saying medical use should be strictly monitored. When doctors told Christophe Novou that his leg would have to be amputated at the hip due to a raging bacterial infection, the 47-year-old Frenchman thought about killing himself. After surviving a crippling traffic accident and dozens of operations to repair the damage, to him life in a wheelchair just did not seem worth living. That's when an article about a clinic in Georgia offering an obscure treatment for hard-to-treat infections using live virus -- something called phage therapy -- caught his eye. Within hours, he was on a plane to Tblisi. "Without it, I wouldn't be here," Novou told AFP on the sidelines of a conference in Paris about the mostly forgotten therapy, which remains marginal outside a few former Soviet bloc countries. The treatment harnesses viruses called phages to attack and kill dangerous bacteria, including "superbugs" which have become progressively resistant to antibiotics. In Novou's case, it was Staphylococcus, a common bacteria which can cause anything from a simple boil to horrible flesh-eating infections. Mostly ignored up to now by mainstream medicine, the alternative treatment has started to gain adherents over the last 15 years, especially in France, Belgium and the United States. The renewed interest is partly driven by a problem which the World Health Organization (WHO) recently described as a "global health crisis": the dramatic rise of antibiotic-resistant strains of deadly pathogens. WHO chief Margaret Chan warned last November of a "post-antibiotic era" in which common infections will become killers once more. - Show us the money - "Phage therapy is especially effective for infections that affect bones and articulation, but can also be used for urinary, pulmonary and eye infections," said Alain Dublanchet, a doctor at the forefront of the movement to resurrect the treatment in France. Discovered during World War I and developed during the 1920s and 1930s, it has few undesirable side-effects. Story continues Dublanchet, now retired, claims to have cured at least 15 patients of infections they contracted mainly after road accidents, and for whom antibiotics did not work. Treatment usually lasts a few weeks, and is generally far less expensive than last-resort antibiotics which can cost tens of thousands of dollars or euros. Pharmaceutical companies have shown little interest in phage therapy, in large part because viruses cannot be patented, according to participants at the Paris conference. "The laboratories have turned their back on this because the return on investment is just too small," said Jean Carlet, an expert on infectious diseases and a consultant for the WHO. A few startups have invested in phage therapy, which the European Union classified as a medicine in 2011. But the cycle of drug trials can easily take a decade, so these are long-term -- and perhaps long-shot -- investments. To date no virus used in phage therapy has been approved as a treatment. "It will take years and a lot of money," said Jean-Paul Pirnay, a doctor at the Reine Astrid military hospital in Brussels, one of few actively researching the technique outside the ex-Soviet bloc. Because phage therapy is not recognised in France, Dublanchet and other practitioners -- working in a grey zone -- often wind up going to eastern Europe to procure the viruses. In the United States, the only phages on the market are used in the anti-bacterial treatment of food products. The EU has launched a clinical trial called "Phagoburn" to test the effectiveness of virus-based treatments on victims of severe burns. Half of a group of 220 participants are to be treated with established techniques, and the other half with phage therapy. Temporary authorisation for phage therapy may be granted in France "if the products are of sufficient quality and there is a presumption of efficacy," said Caroline Semaille, a spokeswoman for ANSM, the French government agency that monitors drug approval and use. Novou spent 8,000 euros ($8,700) on going to Tbilisi in 2013 for his treatment, but has no regrets. Dozens, perhaps hundreds, of other French people with similar problems have done the same, said Dublanchet, and most come back in better shape. "It's not a matter of replacing antibiotics with phage therapy," he said. "They should be complimentary." Dublanchet also warned of the possible spread of therapeutic viruses into the environment, saying medical use should be strictly monitored. Damascus (AFP) - Aid workers on Monday began carrying out the first delivery of humanitarian assistance to Syrians since a landmark truce came into effect at the weekend, the Syrian Arab Red Crescent said. The Red Crescent said that 10 trucks of aid including blankets and hygiene supplies provided by the United Nations had entered the besieged rebel-held town of Moadamiyet al-Sham southwest of Damascus. Red Crescent official Muhannad al-Asadi said it was "the first delivery since the beginning of the truce" and that another 41 trucks were set to enter the town on Monday. The trucks were carrying sanitary pads, soap, laundry detergent and blankets provided by the United Nations' refugee and child agencies, he said. It is the third delivery this month to Moadamiyet al-Sham, which is surrounded by pro-government forces and had seen an uptick in violence in recent months. The truce, which was in its third day on Monday, is meant to open the way for aid to the more than 480,000 Syrians living in areas besieged by government forces, rebels or jihadists. UN humanitarian coordinator Yacoub El Hillo said the world body hoped to take advantage of the relative calm to distribute supplies to 154,000 people living in besieged areas over the next five days. PARIS (Reuters) - Gameloft said on Monday that its board had unanimously rejected an unsolicited takeover bid by media group Vivendi as being against the interests of the mobile video games maker and its shareholders. The deal has no industrial logic and the offer of 6 euros a share from Vivendi does not reflect the true value and future potential of the company, Gameloft said in a statement. The bid, below Gameloft's current share price, values the company at around 513 million euros ($560 million). Gameloft has said it considers Vivendi's building of a stake of more than 30 percent to be hostile. The company's founding Guillemot family in February lifted its own stake to 20.29 percent of the capital and 28.42 percent of the voting rights. Vivendi, which has refocused its business around Universal Music Group and pay-TV business Canal+ Group, wants to re-enter the video games business to boost its position in the content and media sector, having had to dispose of Activision Blizzard in 2013 to reduce its debt pile. Led by French tycoon Vincent Bollore, Vivendi also has a holding of around 14.9 percent in Gameloft peer Ubisoft, founded by the same family. Vivendi Chairman Bollore has said he ultimately wants to build a European media powerhouse to compete with rivals from pay-TV group Sky Plc to German radio and publishing group Bertelsmann. Gameloft said on Monday that it saw no potential cost savings resulting from a takeover by Vivendi, which wants to harness its content and distribution platforms for the two video games makers' products. Shares in Gameloft were continuing to trade above Vivendi's offer price on Monday, up 0.3 percent at 6.83 euros by 0835 GMT. Ubisoft stock was down 1.4 percent. Ubisoft head Yves Guillemot recently told Canadian daily The Globe & Mail that it was seeking investors in Canada, where it employs over 3,000 people, to help fend off Vivendi's Bollore. ($1 = 0.9153 euros) (Reporting by James Regan; Editing by Keith Weir) London (AFP) - Four leaders of a crime gang were convicted Monday of plotting to steal jade and rhino horn artefacts worth A57 million ($79 million, 73 million euros) from museums across Britain to export illegally to China. Ten more men have already been convicted of the same crime, including Chi Cheong Donald Wong -- a London-based intermediary who would find buyers for the stolen items and made frequent trips to Hong Kong. A jury in Birmingham in central England convicted the men of planning raids on auction houses and museums, including at the Fitzwilliam Museum in Cambridge. None of the 18 jade exhibits stolen from the Cambridge museum in April 2012 have been recovered but a jade bowl and figurine taken from Durham's Oriental Museum were found hidden in waste ground. The men were all members of "Rathkeale Rovers", an organised crime gang within the Irish Traveller community. The European law enforcement agency Europol in 2011 warned about an Irish organised crime group involved in the trafficking of illegal rhino horn. The police estimate that the loot netted from the thefts would have fetched A57 million in China. Six members of the gang were arrested in September 2013 at travellers' camps in south east England. There is high demand for rhino horns in China, where they are used in highly controversial preparations of traditional Chinese medicine. In recent years, prices of drinking cups made of sculpted rhinoceros horns also have soared in the Chinese art market. By Nidal al-Mughrabi GAZA (Reuters) - Palestinians in the Gaza Strip are enjoying their first night out at the movies since political tensions led to the torching of cinemas in the enclave 20 years ago. Hollywood blockbusters have yet to return and Hamas Islamists, who now rule Gaza, are looking out for anything they consider immodest. Nevertheless, the projectors are rolling again, in a newly-opened cinema whose shows have been limited so far to films about the Palestinian struggle for statehood. About 150 people took their seats last week in the Red Crescent Society hall, usually a venue for celebrations or traditional performances, to watch "Oversized Coat". The 2013 film by Jordan-based Palestinian director Nawras Abu Saleh examines Palestinian life between 1987 and 2011, a period of failed peace efforts and two anti-Israeli uprisings. Tickets cost 10 shekels ($2.50) each. In the audience, Alaa Abu Qassem, a Gaza student who had never been to the movies before, reveled in the new experience. "I am very happy," said Qassem, just a toddler when the last of Gaza's cinemas were burned to the ground during fighting between rival Palestinian factions. "But where is the pop corn?" Cinema once flourished in Gaza. Back in the 1950s, when Egypt ran the enclave, residents used to frequent movie houses to watch Arab, Western and Asian films. Those cinemas were set on fire in 1987 when the first Palestinian uprising erupted. All were repaired, but were torched again during internal violence in 1996. Faded movie posters, some in Hebrew and dating back two decades when Gaza was under Israeli occupation, still hang on the charred walls of what had been one of the territory's biggest cinemas. Its windows were smashed long ago and graffiti either glorifying the fight against Israel or advertising local businesses have been scrawled on the building. The picture was dramatically different at last Thursday's screening in the Red Crescent Society hall. Families came for a night out and once the lights dimmed, some in the audience used their cellphone cameras to make a movie of their own of the event. "Gaza is hungry for a cinema ... depriving people of cinemas and theatres in Gaza is a violation of their humanity," said Basel Al-Attawna, a Gaza theater director who had in the past watched movies at the old movie houses. OVERFLOW CROWD With Israel and Egypt tightly controlling Gaza's borders, most of its 1.9 million inhabitants cannot travel outside the enclave, where Islamist mores have taken root. Movies are watched in private, at home, on television or DVDs. Hussam Salem, of the Ain Media company that sponsored the screening last week, said the initiative began two months ago when an overflow crowd of about 250 people came to the Red Crescent Society hall to watch the first movie. The company had originally planned to hold a weekly screening on Saturdays, but added a second show during the week in response to requests on its social media page. At Thursday's event, audience members said that while movies highlighting the Palestinian struggle were fine, they also wanted to watch Egyptian films and Western features with action stars like Tom Cruise or Sylvester Stallone. Salem said movies' contents had to be approved by Gaza's Hamas-run Interior Ministry before they could be shown. That could mean, he said, editing on his part that would expunge scenes that could be deemed immodest - even a kiss. Salem said he had yet to encounter such a scenario since the films he has selected so far have "suited the traditions and values we were brought up on". Locked in conflict with Israel and vying against secular Palestinian rivals in the occupied West Bank, Hamas has long invested in television- and Internet-based news, educational shows and even animated clips that advance its political views. But independent artists say authorities have been quick to veto content that does not conform to Islamic edicts in the conservative enclave. Hamas has described its intervention in film and television productions as minimal. (Writing by Nidal al-Mughrabi; Editing by Jeffrey Heller in Jerusalem and David Stamp in London) Neubrandenburg (Germany) (AFP) - The trial of former Auschwitz medic Hubert Zafke for aiding in 3,681 murders appeared close to collapse Monday after the 95-year-old failed to attend the German court over health problems. Chief judge Klaus Kabisch suspended the hearings shortly after they opened, saying a doctor had on Sunday found that Zafke had "suicidal thoughts and was suffering from stress reaction and hypertension". The defendant was therefore "not in a state" to be taken to the court or to testify, the judge said. Zafke served as a medical orderly at the Nazi death camp in occupied Poland from August 15 to September 14, 1944, a period when teenage diarist Anne Frank was interned there. Prosecutors charge that Zafke "knew of and willingly supported the industrially organised mass killing people in an insidious and cruel manner". Of his time as a medical orderly -- a job that for some officers entailed giving lethal injections to inmates -- Zafke has claimed to have only performed first aid and treated prisoners, and had no clue Auschwitz was an extermination camp. Zafke's defence lawyer, Peter-Michael Diestel, hit out at the decision to take the former SS officer to trial in the first place. "My client is dying and will soon face his highest judge," Diestel told AFP. "I find it extremely embarrassing that German justice ... has only done a slipshod job on the Holocaust, and that we're now trying to cover this up with this sort of trial," argued the lawyer, who was also the last interior minister of East Germany during its democratic transition before reunification. "We are imposing this on the wrong people after those who were responsible were sent home in the 1960s or 70s with overly lenient sentences, had their cases dismissed or were simply acquitted," he said. "This proceeding is humanely worrying and questionable from a historical and political point of view." Story continues - Slave camps, gas chambers - Zafke's ability to stand trial had long been in contention. A first court had ruled against a trial, finding that he was suffering from dementia, before an appeals court overturned the decision. It found that, although he suffered "cognitive impairments" and diminished physical capacity, he could be granted regular breaks and close medical supervision. The prosecution had also sought, but failed, to have the judges recused, arguing they were biased towards declaring Zafke unfit to stand trial. Prosecutors Monday filed a motion for a second medical opinion. That decision will be heard on the next set court date, March 14. If Zafke faces trial, he risks between three and 15 years in prison -- but he is considered unlikely to serve any time given his advanced age. Zafke, a farmer's son who joined the Nazi party's elite police force the Waffen-SS at age 19, initially fought on the eastern front before he was sent to the death camp. During his time as a medical orderly, 14 trains arrived, delivering prisoners from across Europe to its slave labour camps and gas chambers. One of the trains brought the family of Anne Frank, whose diary about her Jewish family's life in hiding in Amsterdam has moved millions and remains a worldwide bestseller. Anne Frank survived Auschwitz but died in Bergen-Belsen, shortly before its 1945 liberation by the British army. Zafke had also served as an SS officer at Auschwitz from October 1943 to January 1944. After World War II, a Polish court in 1948 sentenced him to a four-year jail term from which he was released in 1951. - Legal precedent - For many decades, Germany only tried Nazi officers for atrocities they personally committed and usually required eye-witness testimony for a conviction. However, a new legal precedent was set in the 2009-2011 trial of John Demjanjuk, a Ukrainian-born guard at the Sobibor death camp in occupied Poland, who was convicted at age 91 of having aided in the mass killings. Last July, 94-year-old Oskar Groening, known as the "bookkeeper of Auschwitz," was sentenced to four years in prison for being an accessory to the murders of 300,000 people at the camp. Around a dozen more cases are pending or under investigation, authorities say. One million European Jews died between 1940 and 1945 at Auschwitz before it was liberated by Soviet forces. United Nations (United States) (AFP) - Germany's foreign minister said Monday he was deeply concerned by continued violations of the ceasefire in Ukraine and restrictions imposed on monitors overseeing the truce in the nearly two-year war. Frank-Walter Steinmeier told the UN Security Council that the Minsk agreement signed a year ago was "the only way towards a sustainable political solution" to end the conflict in Ukraine. The foreign minister was reporting to the council as this year's chair of the Organization for the Security and Cooperation in Europe. Germany and France are also leading international efforts to restore peace in Ukraine. Citing progress in de-escalating the crisis in Ukraine, Steinmeier praised the OSCE's monitoring mission for those gains. "However, we remain deeply concerned over the continuing violations of the ceasefire and the restriction of access for the SMM," the special monitoring mission, he said. About 700 international observers have been deployed in Ukraine, but they are regularly denied access to the Russian-Ukrainian border area where Kiev says Russian troops and military hardware are sent to separatist fighters. Russian Ambassador Vitaly Churkin said the OSCE monitors should "pay more attention to the territory under the control of the Ukrainian army" to ensure their activities are "equal on both sides." Ukraines ambassador said the situation in east Ukraine "remains fragile and prone to escalation" and accused Russia of failing to uphold its commitments under the Minsk agreement. Ambassador Volodymyr Yelchenko said deploying an international police force under OSCE auspices could help bolster security. The war in east Ukraine has killed at least 9,000 people and driven more than 1.5 million from their homes. Ukraine has accused Russia of backing separatist rebels fighting Kiev since April 2014, but Moscow denies direct involvement. Story continues Despite tension with Russia over Ukraine, Steinmeier said "we are not reliving the Cold War, and we shouldn't talk as if we were." French Ambassador Francois Delattre said ceasefire violations had been on the rise over past weeks and deplored a "piecemeal" implementation of the Minsk accord on the ground. A ministerial meeting in Paris on Thursday will be "crucial" to decide on the next steps to address the conflict, said Delattre. By Guy Faulconbridge and Kate Holton LONDON (Reuters) - Yanis Varoufakis, the self-described "erratic Marxist" who took Greece to the brink of a euro zone exit by battling creditors over the conditions for a bailout, has got a new role: advising Britain's opposition Labour Party. The former Greek finance minister who shuns neckties and says the European Union is falling apart will advise Labour due to his negotiating experience during the euro zone debt crisis, said Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn. "I think the way Greece has been treated is terrible and we should reach out to them," Corbyn, who has taken the party of Tony Blair and Gordon Brown further to the left since he became leader in 2015, told the Islington Tribune. "Varoufakis is interesting, because he has obviously been through all the negotiations [with the ECB, European Commission and the International Monetary Fund]," Corbyn was quoted as telling his local London newspaper. Varoufakis, 54, did not immediately respond to emailed requests for comment about the new role. A spokesman for the Labour Party said Varoufakis would take part in a lecture series to discuss his experiences and offer advice on Labour Party policy "in an attempt to raise the level of public debate on economics and policy making." In six months as Greece's finance minister, the British-educated economist infuriated euro zone colleagues by opposing the terms for a Greek bailout. As Greece tumbled towards what some investors feared would be a disorderly exit from the euro, Varoufakis engaged some colleagues in political discussion on the economic theory behind the bailout terms while publicly criticising the euro zone. He resigned in July 2015 shortly before Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras eventually finally agreed terms to avoid being bounced out of the common currency. "We both want to see an economic strategy around anti-austerity, and were both very concerned about the activities and power of the European Central Bank," Corbyn, 66, said when asked about his ties to Tsipras. "EU FALLING APART" Greece's debt crisis and eventual bailout were cast by some eurosceptics in the British Labour movement as evidence that Germany was imposing spending cuts on citizens in euro zone countries to serve corporate interests. Though it was not immediately clear what Varoufakis would advise Labour on, the former finance minister has said he opposes a British exit from the EU. Corbyn, who voted against membership in 1975, has said he will campaign to keep Britain in the EU in a June 23 referendum, arguing that membership is the best way to improve social and employment laws. "Under the weight of its own hubris, the EU is falling apart," Varoufakis said in an article on his web site. "Brexit will make the EUs fragmentation faster and surer, begetting a post-modern 1930s from which the UK will not escape even if out of the EU." Corbyn's opponents in Prime Minister David Cameron's Conservative Party said Labour's move to seek advice from Varoufakis was indicated a flawed economic policy. (editing by Ralph Boulton) Apples standoff over the FBIs demand to crack open the cellphone used by San Bernardino killer Syed Rizwan Farook is more than a quintessentially American debate over the limits of privacy in an era of terrorism. It has also shone a light on how U.S. technology companies navigate the demands of governments in authoritarian countries that dont give a damn about civil liberties but also happen to be very important to corporate bottom lines. China, the worlds second largest economy, heads that list, but it also includes Vladimir Putins Russia, where the security services have gained a reputation as perhaps the most technologically sophisticated of Americas adversaries. Specifically, the Apple case in the U.S. has raised the issue of whether the tech giant gives foreign governments things it righteously refuses to give to the FBI. U.S. companies have been under pressure in China for years now, for two main reasons. First, the country remains effectively a police state, with the ruling Communist party stifling free expression and its massive security apparatus working to make sure any dissent or popular uprising is instantly squashed. Technology companies are therefore a threat to the governmentor, potentially, a useful tool in the pursuit of the governments designs. The second reason is that Chinas economic policy places a premium on it becoming a technology powerhouse, home to companies that the government hopes someday will supplant Apple et al. atop the tech pyramid. Local-content requirements, mandatory joint ventures and forced technology transfers in exchange for market access have all been part of Beijings playbook (just as, to be fair, they were in other, less-authoritarian countries, including Japan and South Korea.) The pressures are intense, and companies have chosen to push back (or not) in various ways. Most famously (or, in the eyes of some shareholders, infamously), Googles co-founders, Sergey Brin and Larry Page, chose not to operate in China rather than succumb to the governments censorship, which forbids honest information about things like the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre from appearing in Web searches. (Search Tiananmen Square on Baidu, Chinas Google equivalent, and you tend to get a bunch of listings about what a nice tourist attraction it is.) Brin said his upbringing in the former Soviet Union would not allow him to play nice with government censors. There have been other occasions when companies have pushed back against China, and they have even done so collectively. In one famous episode, in late 2009, Chinas Ministry of Science and Technology demanded that all the technologies used in products sold to the government be developed in China, which would have forced multinational companies to locate many more of their R&D activities in a country where intellectual property is notoriously unsafe. After howls of protest from a range of high-tech companies, the ministry backed down. In other instances, high-profile tech companies have been, in the eyes of critics, something less than profiles in courage. Most notoriously, in 2005 Yahoo Holdings Ltd. in Hong Kong provided Chinese authorities the IP address for Shi Tao, a journalist who was later arrested and sentenced to a 10-year prison term for illegally providing state secrets to foreign entities. Shi, a newspaper reporter, had sent an email to a friend in the U.S. about Beijings instructions to Chinese media to ignore any public commemorations of the Tiananmen massacre as its anniversary drew near. Yahoos lawyers explained that the company was merely complying with Chinese lawa requirement of any company operating in the country. If we want to do business here, we dont get to pick and choose which laws we like and which we dont, a Yahoo executive told me at the time. (Shi was released in September 2013, 15 months early.) That lamentwe dont get to pick the laws we likeis pretty much how every businessperson feels while trying to operate in China in a difficult environment. And it now applies to Apple, which in the wake of the conflict with the FBI has seen a flood of misinformation about its actions in China in the press and on technology blogs across the world. Before explaining what Apple did and didnt do in China, its important to emphasize the bottom line: There is no evidence that Apple has provided anything to the Chinese government that its refusing to give to the U.S. feds. So what did Apple do? Consider the hysteria surrounding Edward Snowdens claims in 2013 that U.S. tech companies, including Apple, allowed governments backdoors into their operating systems, thus allowing them to spy on users and access private data stored on devices. Apple CEO Tim Cook shrieked from the mountaintops that no government had any backdoor into its products or servicesand never would. Beijing, engaged in an escalating cyberwar with the U.S., wasnt going to take his word for it. So, according to Chinese state media accounts and technology executives in China, it told Apple it needed to do a security audit on its products. A year ago, it did so, and it's never been clear whether there were any ramifications from the audit. Apple has continued to sell iPhones and all its other products without incident. Note the irony: Chinas security audit was done, by all accounts, to ensure that Apple had not already built a backdoor into its products that the U.S. government could use to its advantage in China. (Apple has never publicly confirmed or denied the security audit). But now, in the wake of the controversy over the San Bernardino attackers phone, the mere fact that Beijing did a security audit has raised suspicions that Apple jumped to Beijings tune in a way it defiantly refuses to do in the U.S. But theres little evidence that this is true. Some critics have pounced on the security audit and concluded that Apple gave the Chinese government its source code" and therefore, in theory, gave Beijing ideas about how it can build its own backdoor into Apples products. But this is almost certainly wrong. As John Kheit, a writer at the all-Apple, all-the-time website the Mac Observer, puts it, Showing the source code in no way reveals the magic encryption keys generated by the source code and maintained in secret on peoples individual devices. Apple is fighting a battle that Dont-tread-on-my-iPhone libertarians love and Get-the-terrorists-before-they-get-us hawks hate. However it turns out, it is important for Apple to allay fears that it is playing a double game in what will eventually be its biggest market. Related Articles Podcasts are all the rage, and some imaginative high school teachers are introducing their students to the medium in class. Nancy Branom, an English teacher at Edmonds-Woodway High School in Washington, recently had her writer's workshop class make podcasts. Her colleague, librarian Karen Rautenberg, introduced her to the popular public radio podcast "Serial." Then, Rautenberg suggested the two do a podcast assignment with Branom's class. Branom says the outcome was basically a research paper in the form of a podcast. But it was also a story -- because podcasts demand storytelling -- and that made the project different from a typical research paper, Rautenberg adds. Just like a paper, a podcast needs a beginning, middle and end, Branom says. "You have to have a hook and an introduction with context. You have to introduce your interviews and you have to be able to decide, well, what chunk of this interview I'm going to take so it makes sense -- kind of like evidence from a novel that you put in a paper." The students worked on teams to create the podcasts and choose a topic they wanted to cover, like illegal immigration and transgender issues, she says. They had to do research on the topic and find sources to interview. But before students started recording, they listened to podcasts at home to get familiar with the medium. Teachers looking for podcasts appropriate for teens may want to check out these suggestions from School Library Journal. [Find out how high school teachers are guiding students into self-publishing.] And teachers who don't want to dive into facilitating a podcast production assignment just yet could have students listen to podcasts in the classroom to work on listening skills, like the teachers featured in this post from Mindshift. Teachers can also consult this blog by a teacher using "Serial" in class for ideas, or check out this post from Edutopia with resources on using and creating podcasts in the classroom. Story continues Rautenberg, the librarian in Washington, says students mainly used their phones and Chromebooks to create the podcasts. They used an audio editing software called Beautiful Audio Editor, which some students struggled with. Teachers can rely on their students, she says, since they probably know more about technology then them and can help out other students. [Four questions for high school teachers to ask when vetting new tech tools.] "What happened recently is that technology has progressed enough to put a production studio into the hands of every student. With a smart phone, my students can record an audio podcast or even shoot a documentary film," said John Herman, an English Language Arts teacher at Epping High School in New Hampshire, in an email. He assigned his sophomore honors nonfiction students an audio assignment. His class podcast is based on the radio program "This American Life," except it's about their small town in New Hampshire, he said. "One of my goals as a teacher is empower students to become media literate. Back in the day, that meant studying mainstream media messages, but now students can take a hands-on approach," he says. "They actually go out into the community and give people the opportunity to tell their own stories. They solidly connect their learning to the real world." Branom's students in Washington had to keep a diary and write a reflection on the project. She says her students were surprised at how different the spoken word is from writing. "It creates a much more emotional punch often than writing does and they were amazed at that," she says. "And that the music and how you have to really hook your listener in, like all those elements that they discovered through listening to podcasts. But I can tell you, across the board, they thought it was amazing." Have something of interest to share? Send your news to us at highschoolnotes@usnews.com. Alexandra Pannoni is an education Web producer at U.S. News. You can follow her on Twitter or email her at apannoni@usnews.com. While much of Hollywood was getting ready for the 88th Academy Awards on Sunday night, a handful of celebrities took to social media to remind fans about the #OscarsSoWhite controversy that has enveloped this year's show. "Know why I hate 'why is diversity so important' question?" veteran TV producer Shonda Rhimes tweeted as stars began walking the red carpet at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. "It implies matter should be UP FOR DEBATE. As if LACK of diversity could be valid." See More: Oscars: Red Carpet Photos Earlier in the day, Al Sharpton led several dozen demonstrators in protest against a second straight year of all-white acting nominees. Just down the street from where the Oscars take place, demonstrators held signs reading "Hollywood Must Do Better" and "Shame on You." Sharpton vowed, "This will be the last night of an all-white Oscars." Kevin Hart, who will present during the ABC event, responded to a fan on Twitter by calling the show "Straight Out Of Touch" and Bette Midler quipped: "The Oscars are today! You know, the awards show where Leonardo DiCaprio is 'overdue' but black people can 'wait till next year.'" April Reign, the creator of the #OscarsSoWhite hashtag and who is providing her followers with alternate programming options, shared a photo of host Chris Rock with the words, "Powerful. Intentional. Desperate. We see you, @TheAcademy. We're still not watching. #OscarsSoWhite." Rock will host Sunday's annual awards show, which airs live on ABC at 8:30 p.m. ET/5:30 p.m. PT. See more celebrity reactions on Oscars day below. The Oscars are today! You know, the awards show where Leonardo DiCaprio is "overdue" but black people can "wait till next year." Bette Midler (@BetteMidler) February 28, 2016 Know why I hate "why is diversity so important" question? It implies matter should be UP FOR DEBATE. As if LACK of diversity could be valid. Story continues shonda rhimes (@shondarhimes) February 28, 2016 Straight out of Compton was one of the best movies this year...so yes they are "Straight Out Of Touch" lol https://t.co/rjahDuINkk Kevin Hart (@KevinHart4real) February 28, 2016 Powerful. Intentional. Desperate. We see you, @TheAcademy. We're still not watching. #OscarsSoWhite pic.twitter.com/0Il5mVOtJF April (@ReignOfApril) February 28, 2016 Away on #Oscar Sunday but thinking fondly 29 years ago when I was honored with Best Actress. Here's wishing for #diversity next year. Marlee Matlin (@MarleeMatlin) February 28, 2016 Why are people complaining about Oscar diversity? Didnt Anne Hathaway like *just* win one? rob delaney (@robdelaney) February 28, 2016 Too much talent is being kept on the sidelines. In every industry, we can do and need to do better. https://t.co/DltAsnePpz Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) February 28, 2016 Ryan Coogler, director of "Creed", and Ava DuVernay, director of "Selma", are spending Oscar night in Flint doing something that matters. TY Michael Moore (@MMFlint) February 29, 2016 Hollywood (United States) (AFP) - "Mad Max: Fury Road" swept the technical prizes Sunday at the Oscars, the pinnacle of Hollywood's glittering awards season, as host Chris Rock delivered a searing salvo against the lack of diversity among nominees. So far, the night saw one big surprise -- Mark Rylance's triumph in the best supporting actor category for "Bridge of Spies," confounding most experts who had forecast a sentimental first Oscar for Hollywood favorite Sylvester Stallone. Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's survival epic "The Revenant" is still leading the charge for major honors at the 88th Oscars -- but a row over the lack of ethnic minority acting hopefuls overshadowed the proceedings at the Dolby Theatre. "Well, I'm here at the Academy Awards -- otherwise known as the white People's Choice awards. You realize if they nominated hosts, I wouldn't even get this job," joked Rock, 51, who continued with a series of jibes against the Academy throughout the night. For the second year running, all 20 nominees in the main acting categories are white, and an angry social media backlash under the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite has grabbed the awards season headlines. Rock, who hosted despite calls for him to join a boycott, unleashed a fierce monologue -- one he apparently rewrote in the wake of the scandal to hold the Academy's 6,000-plus voting members, overwhelmingly white men, to account. "Things are going to be a little different at the Oscars. This year, in the 'In Memoriam' package, it's just going to be black people that were shot on their way to the movies," Rock joked. - Early leader - George Miller's stark action epic "Mad Max: Fury Road" shot into an early lead, picking up six awards for best costumes, production design, make-up, film editing, sound editing and sound mixing. The first acting award of the night went to Sweden's Alicia Vikander, who dazzled on the red carpet in a strapless pale yellow Louis Vuitton gown, for her supporting role in "The Danish Girl." Story continues "This is insane," a visibly moved Vikander said, hailing her co-star Eddie Redmayne: "Thank you for being the best acting partner. I could have never done it without you. You raised my game." Filmmaker Tom McCarthy picked up the Oscar for best original screenplay for "Spotlight," a searing look at the Boston Globe's investigation into child sex abuse in the Catholic church -- and one of the top competitors for "The Revenant." And Adam McKay and Charles Randolph took the adapted screenplay Oscar for "The Big Short" -- another best picture contender. Mexico's Emmanuel Lubezki made history with his third consecutive Oscar for cinematography, for his dramatic work on "The Revenant." While Stallone missed out, another Hollywood veteran, best actor nominee Leonardo DiCaprio, is seen as the safest bet of the night for "The Revenant," 22 years after his first of five acting nominations. "Don't know about u but I'm rooting for LEO! He's blessed us w/ years of his storytelling, he deserves this!" tweeted pop diva Lady Gaga. First-time nominee Brie Larson looks to be a lock for best actress, having dominated the awards season with her performance as a kidnapped mother in "Room." "The Revenant" was the overall nominations frontrunner at 12, followed by "Mad Max: Fury Road," with 10, and Ridley Scott's space adventure "The Martian," with seven. - 'Surprises will happen' - The Gold Derby website, which aggregates experts' predictions, has "The Revenant" in the lead for best film, but analysts are split on whether Inarritu will also pick up best director for the second year running following his win for "Birdman." "I think 'The Revenant' will win best picture and the director will go to Miller," said Hollywood analyst Anne Thompson. "It would be unlikely that the Academy would reward a genre sequel like 'Fury Road' with best picture, but they have gone with directors like Ang Lee and Alfonso Cuaron for well-mounted spectacles like 'Life of Pi' and 'Gravity.'" "As many people are saying, this is an unusual year when surprises will happen," she added. The night will also feature some social activism: several stars including Oscar winner Patricia Arquette and past nominee Steve Carell were to wear bracelets to promote a campaign against gun violence. And Vice President Joe Biden will introduce a song by Oscar nominee Lady Gaga to push an initiative tackling sexual assault on US university campuses. Indonesias digital advertising sector was worth about US$800 million in 2015, but the business was left untaxed because of loopholes in regulations Minister Rudiantara at a networking event hosted by KADIN, MAVCAP, Gobi Partners, and Convergence Ventures Indonesias Ministry of Communications and Informatics spokesperson Ismail Cawidu told Reuters that in March, the Ministry aims to issue a regulation for streaming and messaging providers, as well as social media websites. He cited national interests on taxes as well as controlling terrorism and pornography-related content as the main reasons for the proposal. If they do not comply, Indonesia will reduce their bandwidth or block them entirely, said Cawidu. He also stated that there might be a transition period under the new rules. Also Read: A peek into President Jokowis Silicon Valley diary: Terrorism, SMEs, and a ping-pong match Meanwhile, Minister of Communication and Informatics Rudiantara spoke to MetroTV on Sunday about digital advertising in Indonesia. The Ministry estimated that the countrys digital advertising sector was worth about US$800 million in 2015, but the business was left untaxed because of loopholes in regulations. Even Internet giants such as Google, which had already formed legal entities in Jakarta, as well as Facebook and Twitter which have representative offices in the country, may face greater scrutiny on their tax reports. Google has an office in Indonesia, but digital age transactions do not go through that office. That is what were looking to straighten out, said Rudiantara. Indonesia has never been shy about blocking or banning Internet companies who had failed to comply to regulations. State-owned telco operator Telkom blocked Netflix from all of its services, while the government was close to banning Tumblr for pornographic content on its platform. Echelon Indonesia returns to Jakarta this April! Save over 35% off your tickets with promo code Empower10 exclusive to e27 readers only! Tickets available at e27.co/echelon/Indonesia The post Indonesia to Internet giants: Pay tax and censor your content, or move out of the way! appeared first on e27. DUBLIN (Reuters) - Ireland's second largest party on Monday called for a cross-party agreement to reform parliament before any talks begin on the formation of a new government following inconclusive elections last week. Fianna Fail, which secured 24.3 percent of the vote, is the only party with enough seats to form a majority with Prime Minister Enda Kenny's Fine Gael, on 25.5 percent. But senior figures in both parties have expressed opposition to a coalition. Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin said in a statement that all parties should be given two weeks to agree reforms before any talks on a possible new coalition began. He did not broach the possibility of a Fianna Fail-Fine Gael coalition. The statement called for curbs on the power of the government and greater oversight of new legislation and budgets. (Reporting by Conor Humphries; Editing by Kevin Liffey) By Dan Williams JERUSALEM (Reuters) - Israel's long-running struggle to balance modern standards with Jewish tradition has come to a head in the military, where new orders curtailing beards among soldiers have met protests from some rabbis. Many Orthodox Jewish men go unshaven, a religious observance that Israel's armed forces accommodates. But in recent years, many secular soldiers have also grown beards, a trend that new orders going into effect on Tuesday aim to combat. Under revised rules, all soldiers will require advance approval from their commanders, rather than military chaplains, to sport a beard. Religious troops can expect to receive permission, but some rabbis complain about the heightened scrutiny. Rabbi Shlomo Aviner of Beit El settlement in the occupied West Bank described facial hair as an emblem of Jewish fighters from the time of biblical King David. He said soldiers should refuse to obey any shaving orders. "You can be clean and orderly with a beard, and you can be slovenly without a beard," Aviner told Srugim, a religious Jewish news site. In a comment that drew headlines on Israeli news websites, Aviner said the military edict reminded him of photographs from the Nazi era showing Jews being forcibly shaved by Germans. Of requests for beards made so far, 42 percent have been granted on grounds of piety while other applicants were rejected for trying to "hitch a ride" and shirk shaving, chief military spokesman Brigadier-General Motti Almoz told Army Radio. Almoz argued that freedom of faith had to be weighed against avoiding slovenliness in the conscript ranks, something he said was brought home to him by comparing Israeli troops to U.S. counterparts now visiting the country for an air defense drill. "There is proof that, in terms of appearance and discipline, and at times in operational circumstances, having soldiers with beards is not how a military should look," Almoz said. The dispute has reached into Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's coalition government, where religious Jewish parties are powerful partners. Rabbi Eli Ben-Dahan, a lawmaker from the Jewish Home party and the deputy defense minister, told another religious news outlet, Kol Hazman, that the beard order was "unreasonable and illogical" and could hinder efforts to enlist ultra-Orthodox Jews who are generally exempted from the draft. But with Israel's Supreme Court having struck down an appeal last year against the new regulations, Almoz pledged to prosecute soldiers unwilling to carry out orders to shave. (Editing by Jeremy Gaunt) * Repeats to additional subscribers By Naomi Tajitsu FUJISAWA, Japan, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Japan's Robot Taxi aims to forge partnerships with carmakers to develop a driverless taxi service in time for the 2020 Olympics, the technology company said, holding its first tests on public roads and joining a global race to develop self-driving cars. The joint venture between gaming software maker DeNA Co and robotics developer ZMP has set the 2020 Games in Tokyo as a target to develop software to operate driverless cars and an online service to ferry athletes and tourists between Olympic venues and the city's transport hubs. On Monday, it launched an initial 10-day field test in which selected residents of Fujisawa, around 45 km (28 miles) south of Tokyo, can summon a Robot Taxi online or from their smartphones, to take them to a local supermarket and back home. The test uses Toyota Motor Corp Estima minivans equipped with its "Robovision" stereo camera and data processing system, although the company has said that it is open to working with all carmakers to supply vehicles. Robot Taxi plans to take on Japan's famously immaculate cabs in urban centres and remote, rural towns where public transport for elderly residents is limited. The company plans to focus on systems development rather than building vehicles from scratch. "It's difficult to make a car from the ground up when you consider production cost and safety, and we have the world's best automakers already doing that here in Japan," Robot Taxi Chairman Hisashi Taniguchi told reporters. "Our strategy is to keep our costs low by partnering with automakers for the hardware, and to keep those production costs low while we create both the technology and the service," he added. The world's largest automakers are competing with technology firms to create self-driving and driverless cars, with companies from Google to Toyota investing heavily in developing both hardware and software. General Motors said in January it would invest $500 million in Lyft Inc and laid out plans to develop an on-demand network of self-driving cars with the ride-sharing service. The Japanese government pledged late last year to ease regulations to allow for self-driving cars to be tested on more public roads. Still, from the standpoint of regulation and development, Japan is seen lagging behind other countries including Germany and the United States. (Editing by Keith Weir) Hyphernkemberly Dorvilier, 22, of Pemberton Township, a suburb of Philadelphia is pictured in this undated handout photo courtesy of the Burlington County Prosecutor's Office. REUTERS/Burlington County Prosecutor's Office/Handout via Reuters By Barbara Goldberg NEW YORK (Reuters) - A New Jersey woman pleaded guilty on Monday to a reduced charge of aggravated manslaughter in the killing of her newborn daughter, who was set ablaze in the middle of a roadway, prosecutors said. Hyphernkemberly Dorvilier, 23, of Pemberton Township, a suburb of Philadelphia, had been charged with first-degree murder in the baby's death in Mount Holly, New Jersey in January, said Joel Bewley, a spokesman for Burlington County Prosecutor Robert Bernardi. As part of the plea deal, the prosecutor will recommend a 30-year prison sentence for Dorvilier, with the requirement she serve 85 percent of the sentence, he said. The sentencing was set for April 22 in Mount Holly. Dorvilier was being held on $500,000 bail, authorities said. She was accused of dousing the baby with a flammable liquid before setting her alight and leaving her burning in the middle of the road, the prosecutor said. Officers who responded to an emergency call about a fire in the roadway found the baby. She was airlifted her to a Philadelphia hospital, where she later died. Dorvilier was taken into custody at the scene. Her attorney, Public Defender Karen Thek, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. (Editing by Frank McGurty and Alistair Bell) A fight over Sumner Redstone's health condition is moving forward. On Monday, Los Angeles Superior Court judge David Cowan denied a motion to dismiss Redstone ex-companion Manuela Herzer's petition to be reappointed his healthcare agent. What's more, the judge has set a trial date for all day on May 6 and May 9 and the afternoons of May 10 through May 12. Herzer brought the lawsuit in probate court in November after being kicked out of the 92-year-old media mogul's home. She alleges that he is a "living ghost," and one who was unduly influenced by those around him. The litigation has provoked much discussion about the future of Viacom and CBS, the media companies owned by Redstone's National Amusements. Redstone recently resigned as executive chairman of both companies. In response to Herzer's petition, Redstone's attorneys paint her as attempting to invade his privacy for financial reasons. In the lead-up to the hearing, Herzer conducted wide-ranging discovery of Redstone's primary physician and nurses and included more about Redstone's mental condition in redacted filings. The Hollywood Reporter, the Los Angeles Times and Variety are attempting to intervene in the case to oppose the sealing. The judge has indicated that he will address these points at a hearing in mid-March. The ruling is to deny the dismissal motion without prejudice, meaning that Redstone's camp can later re-try the gambit to knock this case out of court before trial. But it appears as though the judge wishes to weigh evidence by medical experts who are dueling over whether Redstone is of sound mind. "There is substantial 'controversy' in this unusual case where Redstone's capacity is in dispute," writes Cowan in his tentative ruling. "The factual issue here is evidently one of degree; i.e., whether the subcortical neurological disorder from which Redstone suffers is causing mild or moderate cognitive impairment; not the simpler question of whether there is or is not impairment. It will therefore be the Court's primary task at trial to determine which of these physicians most accurately states Redstone's mental status." Story continues Importantly, the judge notes that a declaration from Dr. Richard Gold, Redstone's primary physician, isn't necessarily conclusive. Cowan also stated that it was unfortunate that there was no declaration from Redstone himself. He adds, "In summary, if the motion is correct, Herzer has no business looking after Redstone. If the motion is wrong, Redstone will be free of the alleged undue influence of his daughter. Necessarily, the Court cannot determine the validity of these competing claims of motive without seeing the witnesses and hearing testimony." A fight over Sumner Redstone's health condition appears to be moving forward. On Monday, in advance of a hearing, Los Angeles Superior Court judge David Cowan tentatively denied a motion to dismiss Redstone ex-companion Manuela Herzer's petition to be re-appointed his health care agent. Although the judge's decision isn't finalized, the tentative ruling itself is thick usually, a sign that it will be adopted. Herzer brought the lawsuit in probate court in November after being kicked out of the 92-year-old media mogul's home. She alleges that he is a "living ghost," and one who was unduly influenced by those around him. The litigation has provoked much discussion about the future of Viacom and CBS, the media companies owned by Redstone's National Amusements. Redstone recently resigned as executive chairman of both companies. In response to Herzer's petition, Redstone's attorneys paint her as attempting to invade his privacy for financial reasons. In the lead-up to the hearing, Herzer conducted wide-ranging discovery of Redstone's primary physician and nurses and included more about Redstone's mental condition in redacted filings. The Hollywood Reporter, the Los Angeles Times and Variety are attempting to intervene in the case to oppose the sealing. The judge has indicated that he will address these points at a hearing in mid-March. The tentative ruling is to deny the dismissal motion without prejudice, meaning that Redstone's camp can later re-try the gambit to knock this case out of court before trial. But it appears as though the judge wishes to weigh evidence by medical experts who are dueling over whether Redstone is of sound mind. "There is substantial 'controversy' in this unusual case where Redstone's capacity is in dispute," writes Cowan in his tentative. "The factual issue here is evidently one of degree; i.e., whether the subcortical neurological disorder from which Redstone suffers is causing mild or moderate cognitive impairment; not the simpler question of whether there is or is not impairment. It will therefore be the Court's primary task at trial to determine which of these physicians most accurately states Redstone's mental status." Story continues Importantly, the judge notes that a declaration from Dr. Richard Gold, Redstone's primary physician, isn't necessarily conclusive. The judge also stated that it was unfortunate that there was no declaration from Redstone himself. Cowan adds, "In summary, if the motion is correct, Herzer has no business looking after Redstone. If the motion is wrong, Redstone will be free of the alleged undue influence of his daughter. Necessarily, the Court cannot determine the validity of these competing claims of motive without seeing the witnesses and hearing testimony." More to come. By George Obulutsa NAIROBI (Reuters) - Kenya Electricity Generating Company (KenGen) said on Monday it is confident construction of its 80 MW wind farm will go ahead and avoid the problems of a similar Kenyan project that was cancelled last week due to a dispute over the land. Chief Executive Officer Albert Mugo said KenGen's wind power project in eastern Kenya, expected to cost $147 million and due to be completed in December 2019, would not encounter such problems as the company was consulting widely with local authorities and residents. A $144 million wind power project due to be developed by Kinangop Wind Park and financed by a joint venture between Macquarie Group and Old Mutual Investment Group was cancelled due to opposition from local landowners and farmers, Kinangop Wind Park said last Tuesday. "We are also talking to the community itself; the landowners," Mugo told reporters after an investor briefing. "We want to be very involved with the community so that once the project has started, we do not want it to be derailed by the issues similar to Kinangop." Mugo also told investors that KenGen, which is 70 percent state owned, expects electricity sales for its fiscal year ending in June to rise to 29.5 billion Kenyan shillings ($290 million), from 25.6 billion shillings a year earlier. "In the last year, the demand for electricity grew by about 5.5 percent, and this year we expect to see higher growth," Mugo said. On Friday, the company posted a 121 percent rise in pretax profit for the six months ended December to 8.4 billion Kenyan shillings, boosted by a jump in revenue from the sale of electricity to 14.8 billion shillings, from 11.7 billion shillings in the six months ended December 2014. KenGen has increased its power generation capacity in recent years by commissioning new geothermal power plants. Kenya, which depends mostly on renewable energy such as geothermal and hydro power, plans to increase it power generating capacity to about 6,700 MW by 2017, from about 2,500 MW currently. It also aims to cut electricity bills, tackling problems regularly blamed for holding back Kenyan business. KenGen has a commitment to produce 844 MW for the grid under the plan, and Mugo said it had already added 374 MW of this. It plans to add 720 MW of electricity to the grid between this year and 2020, most of it from geothermal sources, at a cost of just over $2 billion. The government is also promoting the use of wind energy although it is not subsiding it. Kenya's other wind power projects include a 300 MW Lake Turkana Wind Power site in the far north of the country, which is expected to go ahead without problems. KenGen already operates a 25.5 MW wind farm near Nairobi. ($1 = 101.5500 Kenyan shillings) (Reporting by George Obulutsa; Editing by Duncan Miriri and Susan Fenton) South Korean firms which once operated factories in a now-shuttered joint economic zone in North Korea pleaded Monday for urgent help from Seoul, saying they had lost more than $663 million. The South on February 10 announced the pullout from the Seoul-funded Kaesong industrial complex in protest at North Korea's latest nuclear and long-range missile tests. The shock announcement prompted the North to expel all South Koreans from the estate and freeze all assets there, shutting down the last symbol of cross-border economic cooperation. The sudden closure took a heavy toll on more than 120 South Korean firms whose production machinery, raw materials and finished products are still trapped in Kaesong, said Jeong Gi-Seob, the head of an association representing them. Such assets are valued at 820 billion won ($663 million), he said, adding the closure is expected to make about 2,000 South Koreans jobless. "When Kaesong first opened in 2004, we trusted the government's words that it would be safe from political situations," Jeong told reporters. "Now we are left devastated... and in urgent need of help." Seoul has announced a series of temporary measures to help the firms and will soon start an inquiry into the scale of the damages they face. Jeong said the measures were "far from sufficient" to help many firms that were facing possible bankruptcy due to mounting debts and massive order cancellations. "We were part of this precious, rare inter-Korea cooperation. The government can't just let us die like this," he said. The estate employed more than 53,000 North Koreans making items such as textiles, footwear and cheap electronics. Since its opening in 2004, South Korean firms have paid wages worth $560 million to the North's state authorities on behalf of the workers. Seoul has said Pyongyang may have used part of the money to develop nuclear weapons and missiles. Kaesong, born out of the "sunshine" reconciliation policy in the late 1990s, had previously remained largely immune to turbulence in inter-Korean ties. The only exception was in 2013 during heightened cross-border tensions when Pyongyang effectively closed the zone for five months by withdrawing its workers. MOSCOW (Reuters) - The Kremlin said on Monday that "the process is underway" in Syria's cessation of hostilities, although it was clear from the beginning that it would not be easy. "The heads of state, the presidents of Russia and the United States, had from the very beginning stressed that the way to a holding ceasefire would not be easy," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told a conference call with journalists. "But at the same time it is crucial that this (ceasefire) agreement was reached," he said. "The process is underway." (Reporting by Maria Tsvetkova; Writing by Dmitry Solovyov; Editing by Maria Kiselyova) Leonardo DiCaprio finally won his first Oscar for his portrayal of Hugh Glass in The Revenant, and he delivered a powerful message about climate change while accepting his award on Sunday night. "Making The Revenant was about man's relationship to the natural world, a world that we collectively felt in 2015 as the hottest year in recorded history. Our production needed to move to the southern tip of this planet just to be able to find snow," he said of filming The Revenant in Argentina. "Climate change is real. It is happening right now. It's the most urgent threat facing our entire species, and we need to work collectively together and stop procrastinating." Read More: Leonardo DiCaprio's Best Actor Win Was the Most Tweeted Moment of an Oscar Telecast Ever DiCaprio continued: "We need to support leaders around the world who do not speak for the big polluters or the big corporations, but who speak for all of humanity, for the indigenous people of the world, for the billions and billions of underprivileged people who will be most affected by this. For our children's children and for those people out there whose voices have been drowned out by the politics of greed, I thank you all for this amazing award tonight. "Let us not take this planet for granted," he concluded. "I do not take tonight for granted. Thank you so much." DiCaprio, whose speech garnered cheers from the Hollywood audience, also thanked the "tireless efforts" of his cast and crew, including his "brother in this endeavor," Tom Hardy, saying, "Your fierce talent onscreen can only be surpassed by your friendship offscreen." He then thanked director Alejandro G. Inarritu: "To Mr. Alejandro Inarritu as the history of cinema unfolds, you have forged your way into history these past two years. What an unbelievable talent you are." Beating out Bryan Cranston (Trumbo), Matt Damon (The Martian), Michael Fassbender (Steve Jobs) and Eddie Redmayne (The Danish Girl), DiCaprio's Oscar win has been long awaited. He has been nominated four times previously for The Wolf of Wall Street, Blood Diamond, The Aviator and What's Eating Gilbert Grape but consistently came up empty-handed. Story continues The Revenant was nominated in 12 categories, including best picture and best director, which Inarritu won. While thanking his "talented and crazy" cast and crew, the filmmaker spoke directly to DiCaprio while accepting his award. "Leo, you are The Revenant," he said. "Thank you for giving your soul, your art, your life." Read More: Oscars: Alejandro G. Inarritu Wins Best Director: "Leo, You Are 'The Revenant'" In the film, DiCaprio plays a 19th century fur trapper who suffers a violent bear attack and is left for dead. Though the actor has often gone to extremes for roles (The Wolf of Wall Street, Aviator and Shutter Island, to name a few), he has said The Revenant's attack sequences involved "some of the more difficult things I've ever had to do in my career. Whether its going in and out of frozen rivers, or sleeping in animal carcasses, or what I ate on set. [I was] enduring freezing cold and possible hypothermia constantly, he has said of the film, which had him eating raw bison so audiences could see his "instinctive reaction" onscreen. I can name 30 or 40 sequences that were some of the most difficult things Ive ever had to do. The shoot has been called "a living hell," but the actor has said he has no regrets. "I knew what I was getting into," said DiCaprio. Backstage, when asked what he loves most about being a storyteller, the actor says telling stories like The Revenant has been a dream of his since he was 4 years old. "I grew up in East Los Angeles," he said. "I was very close to the Hollywood studio system. But I felt detached from it my whole life. And to have had parents that have allowed me to be a part of this industry, to take me on auditions every day after school, and to tell stories like this has been my dream ever since I was 4 years old." He then continued to praise Inarritu for a filmmaking journey that he says he will always remember: "This film to me was exemplary in the sense that I got to work with a director, and all the things we spoke about off camera during the making of this movie transferred their way on screen. This was true storytelling. We really got to have a collaborative experience together, and this was a journey that I'll never forget with Alejandro. It took up, you know, such a large portion of our lives, but as a result, we have a great film to look back on for years to come." Read More: Oscars: The Internet's 17 Best Memes Celebrating Leonardo DiCaprio's Win When asked about how it feels to hold his first Oscar, DiCaprio stressed how grateful he feels for the "surreal" night, but remained focused on the topic of climate change. "I feel so overwhelmed with gratitude for what happened tonight," he said. "But I feel there is a ticking clock out there. There's a sense of urgency that we all must do something proactive about this issue. And certainly with this upcoming election, the truth is this: If you have do not believe in climate change, you do not believe in modern science or empirical truths and you will be on the wrong side of history." Earlier on the red carpet, DiCaprio, who brought his mom as his date, called the night bittersweet. "After years and years of hard work, this is the end of it all," he said. He also delighted Titanic fans by walking the carpet with fellow nominee Kate Winslet (the Steve Jobs star lost out to Alicia Vikander for best supporting actress), who later cheered for her longtime friend with tears in her eyes as he gave his acceptance speech. The 88th Annual Academy Awards were hosted by Chris Rock and aired on ABC. See More: Oscars: Red Carpet Photos var el = document.getElementById('targetParams');if (el !== null && typeof(el) != 'undefined') {var srcParams = $('.advert iframe').attr('src');var addParams = srcParams.split(";");for (i=1;i<=addParams.length - 1;i++) {if (addParams[i] != '=null' && addParams[i] != 'dcopt=ist' && addParams[i] != '!c=iframe' && addParams[i] != 'pos=t' && addParams[i] != 'sz=728x90') {el.value += addParams[i]+";";}}}brightcove.createExperiences();>>>>>>> NAIROBI (Reuters) - The Kenya Wildlife Service said on Monday that an earlier report that two lions were on the loose in the Kenyan capital Nairobi had turned out to be false. "Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) would like to confirm that there was no sighting or any signs of lions at the Ngong road forest as earlier reported," it said in a statement. Animals occasionally escape from Nairobi National Park, a sprawling reserve that has come under increasing pressure from rapid urban growth. The park is mostly fenced off around the city, but there are gaps to allow the animals to migrate. Previous incidents have brought rush-hour traffic to a standstill. In mid-February, several lions were spotted in a residential area and were captured in the middle of the night. Earlier in the day, KWS had issued a statement saying that traffic police had spotted the lions near the neighborhood of Karen - a section of Nairobi named for Karen Blixen, the Danish author of the colonial-era memoir "Out of Africa". (Reporting by Edith Honan; Editing by Richard Balmforth) By Lefteris Papadimas ATHENS (Reuters) - Mohammed Asif and his family have no food, no shelter and no security. "Home", for now, is a thin green blanket spread over a piece of plastic on a pavement in a grimy neighbourhood of the Greek capital. Asif, who though 43 looks at least 20 years older, is one of thousands of Afghans trapped in Greece, their hopes of reaching sanctuary in northern Europe dashed by a cascade of border shutdowns from Austria to Macedonia. "We are desperate. We left Afghanistan because we are Hazaras and the Taliban threatened to kill us, my entire family," he told Reuters. "What will we do now?" Most of the 400 Afghans vying for limited pavement space in Athens' Victoria Square are Hazaras, an ethnic minority who have long suffered discrimination and persecution back home, with thousands massacred by Taliban militias in the 1990s. Asif, his wife and their two children, aged 10 and 13, have been sleeping rough for three days. The Greek state, inundated by an influx of trapped refugees which was at the last count at least 22,000, is clearly absent from Victoria, a once upmarket area of Athens that has now sunk into disrepute. Drug dealing and prostitution are rampant. There are no public facilities and soiled nappies are strewn on a sidewalk next to bins brimming with rubbish. A Christian charity distributes biscuits and orange juice, and the occasional local turns up with a saucepan of food. "A BETTER FUTURE" Further down, young mothers with month-old babies sat on the sidewalk. A man held a child aged about 10 in his arms, looking stonily ahead. "I'll stay here until Macedonia opens its borders," said Ali Khan Ranjbar, 28, from Ghazni, a city in central Afghanistan and a Hazara like Asif. As of Feb. 20, crossings of Afghans to Macedonia have ceased, with witnesses reporting migrants being forcibly removed from border outposts and sent by buses back to Athens. On Monday Macedonian police fired tear gas to disperse hundreds of migrants who stormed the border from Greece as a deeply divided Europe traded barbs over how to tackle its biggest humanitarian crisis in decades. According to United Nations data, about a quarter of the one million refugees and migrants who fled their homes to head to Europe last year were Afghans. "I don't have any more money. I paid $10,000 to get to Europe ... I want to go to Germany or Sweden or Austria for my kids to have a better future," said Asif. But German Chancellor Angela Merkel is under heavy pressure at home to end her open-door policy towards migrants. Sweden is rethinking its asylum policy and Austria last week capped the number of asylum claims at 80 per day. (Writing By Michele Kambas; Editing by Gareth Jones) Amid low oil prices, the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Marketers Association (LPGMA) has supported the Department of Energys plan to stockpile ready-to-use fuel products and secure some of the countrys future requirements. Considering the historical volatility of global oil prices, it would make sense for government to take advantage of inexpensive oil and obtain at a bargain additional fuel supplies for use in extraordinary need, LPGMA party-list Rep. Arnel Ty said. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations Petroleum Security Agreement also encourages members to build extra stockpiles, Ty said. He said due to a great global surplus, the price of oil has plunged 75 percent to around $30 per barrel since the middle of 2014. He cited forecasts from a number of commodity analysts who expect the price of oil to fall to as low as $18 per barrel, before recovering to $60 per barrel. Energy Secretary Zenaida Monsada has instructed the state-owned Philippine National Oil Co. (PNOC) to study the feasibility of petroleum stockpiling, including the proposed volume and type of fuel. The stockpiling plan earlier drew the support of Eastern Petroleum Corp. president Fernando Martinez. Nowadays, future supplies at a pre-determined price can be acquired on paper, without necessarily taking immediate physical delivery of the commodity, the lawmaker said. He said ready access to supplemental fuel supplies that can be easily released into the market might be enough to protect consumers and deter potential pricing abuses during crises. Under Presidential Decree 334, he said the PNOC is duty-bound to provide and maintain an adequate and stable supply of oil and refined fuel products for the domestic requirement. Ty said the Philippine government actually started resorting to fuel reserves in 2011, when oil prices soared to $120 per barrel at the height of the Arab Spring and the rebellion against Libyan dictator Muammar Gaddafi. MAC is looking to the future Spring 2016 makeup collection by developing its "Mineralize" product line to include products for eyes, lips and skin. The luminous, futuristic collection has been expanded to include five new limited edition "Mineral Skinfish" foundation mini-palettes ($32), each featuring four hues baked together that can be used individually or together. Titled "Faintly Fabulous," "Sunny Side," "Naturally Enhanced," "Perfectly Lit," and "Nuanced", the palettes were designed with a wide range of skin colors in mind and comprise dark browns, caramel beiges and pale pinks. Additional products include the new "Mineralize Lipstick" ($23), which comes in hues of off-white, neutral pink, taupe and soft peach and "Mineralize Glass" ($23) glosses in "Inter-Spatial" silver, "Telegenius" peach, "The Zone" mauve and "Anti-Reality" white pearl. The new "Barbados Girl" rose gold bronzer and "Pink Rebel" soft champagne lustre drops ($21) can be massaged directly onto the skin for a subtle shimmer, as can the new "M.A.C. Studio Eye Gloss" ($22), which comes in shades of "Lightly Tauped" beige and "Pearl Varnish" white. New "Mineralize Eyeshadow x 4" ($46) palettes focus on space-age metallic silvers, iridescent teals, blacks and pearls, while a "Technakohl Liner" ($16.50) in "Sterling Silver" and "Graphblack" underline the ethos of the range. Pearly silver and soft beige nail lacquers named "Moonday" and "Sweet Potion" respectively ($12) play into the visionary theme of the collection. News of the new collection comes just days after the cosmetics brand announced the launch of a new M.A.C Viva Glam lipstick shade, "Finally Free", in association with Caitlyn Jenner. The total proceeds from the sales of the lipstick, available April 7 for $17, will go to M.A.C AIDS Fund Transgender Initiative to help improve the lives of those in the transgender community. The new Mineralize range will hit MAC stores across North America on April 7. London (AFP) - Long regarded as Britain's best stage actor, Mark Rylance is now Hollywood royalty as well after winning the best supporting actor Oscar on Sunday for "Bridge of Spies". His role alongside Tom Hanks in the Steven Spielberg-directed Cold War thriller showed the 56-year-old can turn in as powerful a performance on the silver screen as he does treading the boards in London's West End. Rylance's win was the first true surprise of the night, as he bested sentimental favorite Sylvester Stallone ("Creed"), as well as Christian Bale ("The Big Short"), Tom Hardy ("The Revenant") and Mark Ruffalo ("Spotlight"). "I want to just say thank you to my fellow nominees. I don't know how they separate my acting from your glorious acting in these wonderful films that you are in," Rylance said after receiving his award. "It's a wonderful time to be an actor and I'm proud to be part of it." This month, Rylance won a best supporting actor Bafta for the part -- something of a breakthrough for a star whose biggest successes until now had come in the theatre and, latterly, on television. A fan of crop circles and a campaigner for causes such as opposing air strikes in Syria, the environmentally-conscious Rylance drives a tiny electric car around London. "The open-mindedness that he lives creates a non-judgemental approach to his characters," a Guardian profile of Rylance last year quoted his friend, theatre director Richard Olivier, as saying. "Of all the actors I know, he is the closest to a modern shaman." - Globe, Broadway and Hollywood - The son of two English teachers, Rylance was born David Waters in Kent, southeast England, in 1960 but spent much of his childhood in the United States. He trained at prestigious acting school the Royal Academy of Dramatic Art (RADA) in London and took the stage name Mark Rylance -- his two middle names. Story continues He built up a successful career as a young actor, often performing with the Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC). In 1995, he became the first artistic director of the Globe Theatre -- a reconstruction on the banks of London's River Thames of a theatre dating back to the 16th century which stages authentic period performances of plays by William Shakespeare and others. Over 10 years, Rylance put the Globe on the map as one of London's must-visit destinations with a string of innovative shows, including with all-male casts. After stepping down from the Globe in 2005, Rylance took some high-profile parts which showed there was more to him as an actor than just Shakespeare. His roles as bawdy waster Johnny "Rooster" Byron in "Jerusalem" and in the farce "Boeing-Boeing" both won him Tony awards. A third came in 2014 for his role as Olivia in Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night". But tragedy struck in 2012 when the sudden death of his stepdaughter forced him to pull out of performing in the opening ceremony for the London Olympics. In 2015, Rylance became a household name in Britain after starring as Thomas Cromwell in "Wolf Hall", a drama set in the court of Henry VIII and based on books by Hilary Mantel. This role also won him an Emmy nomination, although he lost out to Richard Jenkins for "Olive Kitteridge". Rylance has been married to director Claire van Kampen since 1989 and the two frequently work together. Last year, he starred in her play "Farinelli And The King", a major hit in London. Mexico City (AFP) - Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu soared into Hollywood lore on Sunday, giving Mexico a best director triumph at the Oscars for a stunning third straight year. The former radio DJ became just the third filmmaker to win back-to-back Academy Awards for best director for his epic story of vengeance and survival, "The Revenant." He won the best director and best picture Oscars last year for "Birdman." His friend and countryman Alfonso Cuaron won the top director award for "Gravity" in 2014. Only two other Hollywood legends won two straight best director Oscars: John Ford in 1941 and 1942 and Joseph Mankiewicz in 1950 and 1951. "I couldn't be more happy. Every film is like a song -- you can't like one song more than the other," Inarritu told reporters after his win. "Storytelling is a way for us to confront emotions and possibilities and feel beautiful and horrible emotions. It's a way to control life, to have an oxygen capsule for life without suffering for real." Inarritu also joins an impressive club of directors who have two golden statuettes: Billy Wilder, Clint Eastwood, Steven Spielberg, Milos Forman, Oliver Stone and Ang Lee. "The Revenant" is the result of five years of travel and research that Inarritu dedicated to make the brutal biopic, shot under adverse weather conditions with Leonardo DiCaprio starring as a 19th century frontiersman who seeks revenge after being left for dead. - Government critic - Inarritu has had an enviable career. His six feature films have all earned some kind of nomination at the Oscars. With Cuaron and their friend Guillermo del Toro, the trio have been dubbed "The Three Amigos," heading a golden generation of Mexican filmmakers who have scooped up the industry's most prestigious prizes in recent years. Inarritu has used his international fame to take the government of President Enrique Pena Nieto to task. Story continues When he took the stage last year to accept the Oscar for "Birdman," he urged Mexicans to "find and build the government that we deserve." Two days later, he doubled-down on his criticism, saying that "the level of dissatisfaction, of injustice, of corruption, of impunity have reached intolerable levels" in his native land mired in a decade-long drug war. Pena Nieto, who had congratulated Inarritu for his Oscar glory, responded that his government was striving to improve the lives of the Mexican people. This year, he tackled the thorny row over diversity that roiled the Oscars. "There is a line in the film that says, 'They don't listen to you when they see the color of your skin'," Inarritu said. "So what a great opportunity to our generation to really liberate ourselves from all prejudice and, you know, this way of thinking and make sure for once and forever that the color of skin becomes as irrelevant as the length of our hair." - Music lover - While Inarritu shot to fame with his 2000 Mexican drama "Amores Perros," and earned his first Oscar directing nomination for 2006's "Babel" starring Brad Pitt, the 52-year-old Inarritu came late to the movie world. A music lover, the wild-haired director started working for WFM radio in the 1980s while he was still a communications student at Mexico City's Iberoamerican University. But true to his adventurous spirit -- he traveled the world as a cabin boy in a merchant vessel at the age of 19 -- he took his chances, trading the microphone for a camera. "I think that I'm a musician before I am a filmmaker -- a frustrated musician," Inarritu, a father of two who lost a third child shortly after birth, once said. Inarritu left WFM in the 1990s to make television advertisements and short films for his production firm, Z Films, while learning the craft from Polish-born theater director Ludwik Margules. It was during that time that he met screenwriter Guillermo Arriaga, with whom he made "Amores Perros" -- a raw drama in which three stories collide after a car crash in Mexico's sprawling capital. His debut feature earned Inarritu a big ovation at the Cannes film festival, where it won the Critics' Week prize in 2000. On the back of the film's success, Inarritu moved to Los Angeles, where he directed other somber dramas packed with Hollywood stars. But Arriaga and Inarritu had a bitter break after "Babel," with the screenwriter, who earned an Oscar nomination, complaining that his role in the film was underplayed. During a visit to Mexico City in January, Inarritu said that after the grueling filming of "The Revenant," he was ready to "crawl into a cave to hibernate like a bear" for six months. "I cannot imagine that I will be making another movie any time soon," he said. Laura Varas has a few tips for anyone starting the search for sound advice on managing their money. Start with personality yours, naturally, but dont forget the personality of whomever, or whatever, you are turning to in order to get your financial life in shape. These days, amid a proliferation of new and old ways to manage money, theres a personality out there waiting for you, much like that mythical soul mate, whether you are rich or poor, indebted or endowed, savvy or slow, wise or wondering. One size never fits all, says Varas, founder of Hearts & Wallets, a financial industry research and consulting firm. What she wants to know: Does the brand resonate with my personality? And what more and more smart young people are discovering is that the trope about getting ready early for retirement that one-size-fits-all personality around which most of the financial planning industry is built just aint what it takes these days to seal the deal. What Varas found in a recent survey of more than 40 financial advice companies is a proliferation of new products that, instead of focusing on retirement, cottoned on to the brave new world that defines millennials as different from earlier generations: They tend to start life heavily indebted, they marry later and prepare to buy (what seem to be impossibly expensive) houses later. As for retirement, well, who assumes theyll ever be able to punch out and stop working for good? Instead, 18 new entrant companies in the past 10 years focus not on the golden years, Varas found, but on financial wellness and smart investment, which recognizes that paying down debt, saving for a down payment on a house and building an emergency fund for millennials need to come before retirement. The field is changing and growing so fast that it defies easy categories for choices. The personalities of millennials have a few other key differences as well. Theyre digital natives, accustomed to a welter of choice that they navigate on mobile devices, and they arent used to paying for, or at least not paying much for, stuff online. Theyre also risk averse and distrust big institutions, according to a report from Corporate Insight, a financial consulting and research company. Its this kind of intel that has trickled into a rapid and bewildering proliferation of tools that seem to slice up a persons needs into almost any combination, at any price point, from simple financial calculators to elaborate planning and investment platforms that come with a sliding scale of (more expensive) human intervention. FlexScore, a free online tool that makes finance almost a game, features a ton of math and financial theory behind it. After you enter personal financial data and goals, it spits out a wellness score. Even so, tech like this may look very different soon enough. The tools that are being created today are probably not the tools were going to use in five years, says Jason Gordo, FlexScores founder and CEO. The field is changing and growing so fast that it defies easy categories for choices, experts say. While FlexScore highlights financial weaknesses and steers customers to service providers (who pay referral fees), LearnVest, good for newbies, tries to provide a more traditional planning service by ramping up the technology component to save costs and lower fees. HelloWallet, meanwhile, operates inside of company retirement programs to help plan and gauge an employees financial wellness. Some tools make the approach through budgeting, like You Need a Budget or Mint; others, like Personal Capital, can track both budgets and investments. And then there are the planning tools aimed at professional advisers, including Jemstep, which was recently acquired by Invesco. Of course, getting the most attention recently are the robo-advisers, automated investment platforms pioneered by market leaders Wealthfront and Betterment, but also now used by big investment houses like Schwab and Vanguard. But here too the offerings have grown only more diverse: WiseBanyan, which is free, or SigFig, which provides cheap access to an investment adviser. And, undoubtedly, the gold standard remains the personal financial adviser an actual person paid by fee, commission or percent of assets managed. Indeed, Brooke Salvini, a financial planner in Avila Beach, California, says shes considering using a robo-adviser for some clients investments. But, she points out, this addresses only the investment sliver of a clients needs. And Varas predicts the market will become even more fragmented as new products launch. Millennials are forcing traditional firms to get more coherent about who they are there for, she says. Which means that if you cant find that perfect match today, maybe all you have to do is wait. Related Articles SAN FRANCISCO Are humans living in a simulation? Is consciousness nothing more than the firing of neurons in the brain? Or is consciousness a distinct entity that permeates every speck of matter in the universe? Several experts grappled with those topics at a salon at the Victorian home of Susan MacTavish Best, a lifestyle guru who runs Living MacTavish, here on Feb. 16. The event was organized by "Closer to Truth," a public television series and online resource that features the world's leading thinkers exploring humanity's deepest questions. The answer to the question "what is consciousness" could have implications for the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and far-out concepts like mind uploading and virtual immortality, said Robert Lawrence Kuhn, the creator, writer and host of "Closer to Truth." [Superintelligent Machines: 7 Robotic Futures] Materialism to panpsychism Philosophers have put forward many notions of consciousness. The materialist notion holds that consciousness can be fully explained by the the firing of neurons in the human brain, while mind-body dualism argues that the soul or mind is distinct from, and can potentially outlive, the body. Under the notion of panpsychism, a kind of re-boot of ancient animistic ideas, every speck of matter has a kind of proto-consciousness. When aggregated in particular ways, all this proto-consciousness turns into a sense of inner awareness. And other, Eastern philosophies have held that consciousness is the only real thing in the universe, Kuhn said. Neuroscientists and many philosophers have typically planted themselves firmly on the materialist side. But a growing number of scientists now believe that materialism cannot wholly explain the sense of "I am" that undergirds consciousness, Kuhn told the audience. One of those scientists is Christof Koch, the president and chief scientific officer of the Allen Institute for Brain Science in Seattle. At the event, he described a relatively recent formulation of consciousness called the integrated information theory. The idea, put forward by University of Wisconsin-Madison neuroscientist and psychiatrist Giulio Tononi, argues that consciousness resides in an as-yet-unknown space in the universe. Story continues Integrated information theory measures consciousness by a metric, called phi, which essentially translates to how much power over itself a being or object has. "If a system has causal power upon itself, like the brain does, then it feels like something. If you have a lot of causal power upon yourself, then it feels like a lot to be you," Koch said. The new theory implies a radical disconnect between intelligence and consciousness, Koch said. AI, which may already be intelligent enough to beat the best human player of the Go board game, may nevertheless be basically subconscious because it is not able to act upon itself. [Artificial Intelligence: Friendly or Frightening?] One critic in the audience noted that there is currently no way to test this theory, and that integrated information theory fails some common-sense tests when trying to deduce what things are conscious. (A thermostat, for instance, may have some low-level consciousness by this metric.) But Koch said he was not troubled by this notion. Many objects people think of as conscious may not be, while some that are considered inanimate may in fact have much greater consciousness than previously thought, Koch said. Implications for AI and virtual immortality If Koch and others are correct that strict materialism can't explain consciousness, it has implications for how sentient a computer might be: A supercomputer that re-creates the connectome, or all the myriad connections between neurons in the human brain, may be able to simulate all the behaviors of a human, but wouldn't be conscious. "You can simulate the mass of the black hole at the center of our universe, but space-time will never twist around the computer itself," Koch said. "The supercomputer can simulate the effect of consciousness, but it isn't consciousness. Such simulated consciousness may a kind of AI zombie, retaining all of the outward appearance of consciousness, but with no one home inside, Kuhn said. That implies that uploading one's mind to a computer in order to achieve virtual immortality may not work the way that many people anticipate, Kuhn added. [The Singularity, Virtual Immortality and the Trouble with Consciousness (Op-Ed )] To create truly conscious AI, researchers may need to develop technologies that can act upon themselves, perhaps more akin to neuromorphic computers, Koch said. (Such computers would operate without any pre-programmed code, instead somehow sensing and reacting to changes in their own physical states.) If humans do somehow succeed in creating superintelligent AI, how can they ensure the technology matures in a way that betters humanity, rather than leading to its demise? David Brin, a computer scientist and science fiction author, suggested that humans may need to look at their own lives to make sure AI doesn't make human existence worse, rather than better. For instance, humans have evolved a lengthy life span in part so that they can nurture children through their unprecedentedly long childhoods, Brin suggested. So perhaps the safest way to raise our AI children is to take a blank-slate "proto AI and put it in a helpless body, and then let it experience the world under guidance," Brin said. "If that's the method by which we get AI, then perhaps we'll get a soft landing, because we know how to do that." Follow Tia Ghose on Twitter and Google+. Follow Live Science @livescience, Facebook & Google+. Original article on Live Science. Copyright 2016 LiveScience, a Purch company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. By Stella Tsang and James Pomfret HONG KONG (Reuters) - Four of the five Hong Kong booksellers who went missing in October appeared on Chinese television confirming for the first time they'd been detained for "illegal book trading" in mainland China. The five booksellers - including a British and Swedish national - had been linked to the same Hong Kong publisher and bookstore that specialised in scandalous books on the private lives and power struggles of China's Communist Party leaders. The disappearances have prompted fears that mainland Chinese authorities may be using shadowy tactics that erode the "one country, two systems" formula under which Hong Kong has been governed since its return to China from British rule in 1997. Four of the men, Gui Minhai, Lui Por, Cheung Chi-ping and Lam Wing-kee, gave details of their alleged offences to Phoenix Television on Sunday night. [http://bit.ly/1pjwXIB] "I have deeply reflected on what I have done and very much regret the illegal book trading I have carried out with Gui Minhai," said Lui Por in the Phoenix TV report. In a four-minute report that involved exclusive interviews with the four, they confessed to selling "unauthorised" books in China via an online platform and evading customs inspections to deliver some 4,000 books to 380 customers since October 2014. Gui said he'd altered and obscured the covers of the Hong Kong-printed books with nylon bags to "evade" customs security checks and was singled out by the others as the mastermind. The group had also opened a bank account in China to make payments. Gui had previously confessed on Chinese state television to a fatal drink-driving incident over a decade ago, after going missing in Thailand late last year. The TV report also detailed how Lui, Cheung and Lee had been arrested by Chinese authorities in Shenzhen and Dongguan, two cities in southern China close to Hong Kong, in October and then called upon to testify in the case. "I know that Gui Minhai's books are fabricated. They were downloaded from the Internet and were pieced together from magazines," said Lam. "They have generated lots of rumours in society and brought a bad influence ... I deeply acknowledge my mistakes and am willing to be penalized." The only bookseller not to appear in the report was Lee Bo, a British passport holder, who Britain said had been "involuntarily removed" to China from Hong Kong in December, constituting a "serious breach" of the one country, two systems formula. Hong Kong police said in a statement, however, that they had met Lee on Monday at a guesthouse in China and that Lee had told them he'd travelled to China "voluntarily" and hadn't been kidnapped. But Lee gave no details on how he'd crossed into China without his travel document, telling police a friend had helped him use his "own means" to do so. Lee added he was assisting in an investigation involving Gui. A number of governments have expressed concern regarding the disappearances, which some diplomats fear were abductions by Chinese agents in Hong Kong and Thailand. China's Foreign Ministry, however, has said its law enforcement officials would never do anything illegal, especially not overseas, and called on foreign governments not to interfere in Hong Kong affairs. Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei acknowledged the television report in a daily briefing, saying the men had "already admitted to their actions", without elaborating. The Phoenix television report said Lam, Lui and Cheung might be allowed to return to Hong Kong this week, citing unspecified sources. Gui, however, was expected to remain in detention. A Swedish Foreign Ministry spokeswoman told Reuters by telephone that an envoy had visited Gui on Wednesday and that his condition is "very good", but gave no further details. Britain has not yet been granted consular access to Lee despite formal requests to China, a spokesperson for the British consulate in Hong Kong told Reuters. A Phoenix Television spokeswoman said it was granted access to the men after making "numerous requests to the relevant authorities" but declined to give further details on where, when or under what conditions the interviews were conducted. (Editing by Nick Macfie) Hong Kong (AFP) - Missing Hong Kong bookseller Lee Bo appeared on television Monday insisting he had not been abducted by mainland authorities, in a case that has sparked a backlash over Chinese interference in the city. British citizen Lee is one of five Hong Kong booksellers known for publishing titles critical of Beijing who have gone missing in recent months. It was the first time Lee, 65, had spoken publicly since he was last seen at a Hong Kong book warehouse in December -- Britain said earlier this month it believed he had been "involuntarily removed to the mainland". In his interview with Hong Kong-based Phoenix television, Lee stuck to a story he had previously given in letters sent back to his family that he had gone to the mainland of his own accord. He said he had now given up his British passport. "Many have sensationalised my British citizenship and have complicated the situation, so I have decided to give up my British citizenship," a smiling Lee said in the interview. Britain had said his disappearance was a "serious breach" of an agreement signed with Beijing before the city was handed back to China in 1997 which protects its freedoms for 50 years. That earned the ire of Beijing, which blasted Britain for interfering in its domestic affairs. In the television interview, Lee said he had "resorted to illegal immigration" to get to the mainland as he did not want to draw attention to his visit. "The reason I went to the mainland was to cooperate in a judicial investigation," he said. Previous letters purportedly sent by Lee had said he was "assisting" Chinese authorities, but were widely questioned by politicians, residents and rights groups. - TV confessions - The other four booksellers, who are under criminal investigation on the mainland, also appeared on Phoenix Sunday admitting to smuggling illicit books into China in sombre, sometimes tearful interviews. Story continues Such confessions are more usually paraded on state television -- Phoenix is a private channel which broadcasts both in Hong Kong and in mainland China. The case has heightened fears of increasing interference by Beijing in semi-autonomous Hong Kong and sparked international protests. The men all worked for the Mighty Current publishing house in Hong Kong, which produced salacious titles about political intrigue and love affairs at the highest levels of Chinese politics. Lee's disappearance triggered the greatest outrage as he was the only one to have disappeared from Hong Kong -- the others went missing in October and were last seen in Thailand or southern China. The European Parliament has called for the immediate release of all five men. Earlier Monday, Hong Kong police said Bo had met with them and immigration officials at a guesthouse on the mainland. Lee told them he returned to China "by his own means voluntarily" and was not abducted, but refused to give further details, police said in a statement. He said he did not need help from the Hong Kong government but asked police not to disclose where he was staying. Police said they would continue to follow up on the case and were seeking more information from mainland police about the four other men. One of the other booksellers, Gui Minhai, a Swedish citizen, confessed he had "explored ways to circumvent official inspections in China", in his television interview Sunday. In their first appearance since they were detained, fellow booksellers Cheung Chi-ping, Lui Por and Lam Wing-kee blamed the company's illegal book trade on Gui in their interviews. Lagos (AFP) - Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari is launching a probe after week-long clashes between Muslim herdsmen and Christian farmers left "hundreds" dead, officials said Monday. Fulani herdsmen and four farming communities armed with guns and machetes battled last week in the latest round of violence of a long-running battle over grazing rights in central Nigeria. The predominantly Muslim Fulani have been blamed for waves of attacks on mainly Christian agrarian groups as tension grows in the central state of Benue over access to land and public services. Many houses in the Agatu local government area were razed and properties destroyed before security agents restored peace on Saturday. "I can tell you that hundreds of lives were lost in the violence between the Fulani cattle rearers and the four communities," Benue governor aide Dehen Igbana told AFP. "The government has set up a board of inquiry and the team is expected to visit the area any moment from now," Igbana said. On Sunday evening, Buhari said he was in "deep shock at the latest incident" and called for Nigerians to live together in harmony. "We will conduct an investigation to know exactly what happened," Buhari said in a statement. "There should not be any reason why Nigerians of any group or tongue cannot now reside with one another." State police spokesman Moses Yamu said four corpses were recovered during an inspection on Saturday and that security had since been beefed up in the area. "The place is now calm," Yamu said. Benue is part of Nigeria's "middle belt", where the mainly Christian south meets the predominantly Muslim north. Though often portrayed as the aggressors in central Nigeria's sectarian strife, the minority Fulani complain of suffering from inferior treatment in Benue and neighbouring Plateau state. Despite living in the region for years, the Fulani are not considered indigenous to the area and have reduced access to land, education and political power in the region where most key positions are held by members of Christian ethnic groups. By James Pearson and Jack Kim SEOUL (Reuters) - A U.S. student held in North Korea since early January was detained for trying to steal an item bearing a propaganda slogan from his Pyongyang hotel and has confessed to "severe crimes" against the state, the North's official media said on Monday. Otto Warmbier, 21, a University of Virginia student, was detained before boarding his flight to China over an unspecified incident at his hotel, his tour agency told Reuters in January. North Korea has a long history of detaining foreigners and has used jailed U.S. citizens in the past to exact high-profile visits from the United States, with which it has no formal diplomatic relations. "I committed the crime of taking out a political slogan from the staff-only area of the Yanggakdo International Hotel," the North's KCNA news agency quoted Warmbier as telling media in Pyongyang, the North Korean capital. It did not say what the item was. CNN showed video of a sobbing Warmbier saying: "I have made the worst mistake of my life, but please act to save me." Warmbier said a "deaconess" had offered him a used car worth $10,000 if he could present a U.S. church with the slogan as a "trophy" from North Korea, KCNA said. The acquaintance also said the church would pay his mother $200,000 if he was detained by the North and did not return, KCNA quoted Warmbier as saying. "My crime is very severe and pre-planned," Warmbier was quoted as saying, adding that he was impressed by North Korea's "humanitarian treatment of severe criminals like myself." The White House said on Monday it was aware of Warmbier's situation and was working closely with Sweden, the United States' protecting power in North Korea, to learn as much as it can about Warmbier's detention. "There's no greater priority for the administration than the welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad," White House spokesman Josh Earnest told a daily briefing. Warmbier's parents have not heard from him since his arrest, according to a statement from his family provided by the University of Virginia. "I hope the fact that he has conveyed his sincere apology for anything that he may have done wrong will now make it possible for the DPRK (North Korea) authorities to allow him to return home," the statement said. "I urge the DPRK government to consider his youth and make an important humanitarian gesture by allowing him to return to his loved ones." Other Westerners detained in North Korea previously have confessed to crimes against the state. North Korea's state media said in January that Warmbier "was caught committing a hostile act against the state", which it said was "tolerated and manipulated by the U.S. government". The senior pastor at Friendship United Methodist Church in Wyoming, Ohio, told CNN he did not know the person identified by Warmbier in the KCNA story as a deaconess there, and said Warmbier was not a member of the congregation. Warmbier, a member of the Theta Chi fraternity at the University of Virginia, is studying economics with a minor in global sustainability, according to his Linkedin page. Members of the fraternity were not immediately available for comment. Warmbier was a finance and operations intern at Finishing Technology, his father's firm, from June 2010 to August 2013, and helped run a student investment fund at the University of Virginia, according to his Linkedin profile. He also took a class at the London School of Economics and Political Science in 2015. According to KCNA, Warmbier said he was encouraged in his act by a member of the Z Society, an elite philanthropic organization that he hoped to join at the university. An official in the university's communications office could not immediately be reached for comment. Warmbier grew up in Wyoming, Ohio, northeast of Cincinnati. He attended Wyoming High School, where he was the salutatorian of his graduating class and was named student of the year, according to Linkedin. A district spokeswoman declined to speak about his time at the school. Warmbier was active in swimming when he was younger, according to a blog operated by a local athletic booster organization, and he volunteered as a coach for a local children's swim team. Warmbier, on a five-day New Year's tour of North Korea with a group of 20, was delayed at immigration before being taken away by two airport officials, according to a tour operator that had sponsored the trip. While most tourists to North Korea are from China, roughly 6,000 Westerners visit annually, though the United States and Canada advise against it. Most are curious about life behind the last sliver of the iron curtain and ignore critics who say their dollars prop up a repressive regime. Isolated North Korea is expected to face a tough new U.N. Security Council resolution tightening sanctions against it following its nuclear test in January and a long-range rocket launch this month. (Additional reporting by Jee Heun Kahng in Seoul, Brendan O'Brien in Milwaukee, Marcus Howard in New York and Megan Cassella in Washington; Editing by Nick Macfie and James Dalgleish) HOLLYWOOD, FL--(Marketwired - February 29, 2016) - NV5 Global, Inc. (the "Company" or "NV5") (NVEE), a provider of professional and technical engineering and consulting solutions, announced today that its contract was extended to provide comprehensive Project Management Services for the Vertical Expansion of The University of Kansas Hospital's Cambridge Tower. NV5 has been working with the Hospital as the Program Management Team for the Cambridge Tower since planning began for this expansion to the Hospital's campus, located in Kansas City, Kansas, in 2011. The Vertical Expansion's 177,000 square foot, four floor expansion is scheduled to be finished in 2018. One new floor of the expansion will be immediately prepared for patient occupancy, adding 32 acute care beds. The other three floors will be shelled for future expansion as either acute care or intensive care patient rooms. NV5 has provided broad scope Owner's representative services to the Hospital beginning with Facilities Master Planning, which continued throughout the programming, design and construction phases of the project. In support of the Vertical Expansion, NV5's fees were increased by $640,000, to a total of approximately $4.3 million. Dickerson Wright, PE, Chairman and CEO of NV5, said, "We are pleased that we continue to win repeat work for large-scale state-of-the-art healthcare facilities projects, in this case, for the expansion of one of the leading hospitals in the United States." John Bills, LEED AP, COO of Building Program Management at NV5, added, "Continued work with long-term clients is a core focus for our team. This is a testament to our amazing team and their great work." "Over the course of several major projects, it has been our privilege to serve The University of Kansas Hospital in the management and development of world class healthcare facilities," said Mark Tasker, RA, Project Director. "We are supporting the organization's mission of providing world class healthcare to the community it serves. We relish the opportunity to continue that record of success with the Cambridge Tower Vertical Expansion." Story continues About the University of Kansas Hospital Originally founded in 1906 as part of the University of Kansas School of Medicine, the University of Kansas Hospital became an independent hospital authority in 1998, and has operated independently, with no state funding, since that time. It has evolved into a destination academic medical center sought by patients and top medical professionals from around the country as the region's premier academic medical center. The Hospital provides more than 200 medical specialties and services at its main campus in Kansas City and other sites throughout Kansas. In 2015, the Hospital was ranked in the top 50 hospitals in the nation in every category by the U.S. News and World Report, was ranked first in service quality by consumers in the National Research Corporation Consumer Choice Awards, and in 2010 the Hospital received six Beacon Awards for Critical Care Excellence and the American Nurses Association's Award for Outstanding Nursing Quality. About NV5 NV5 Global, Inc. (NVEE) is a provider of professional and technical engineering and consulting solutions to public and private sector clients in the infrastructure, energy, construction, real estate and environmental markets. NV5 primarily focuses on five business verticals: construction quality assurance, infrastructure, engineering and support services, energy, program management, and environmental solutions. The Company operates 53 offices in 21 states nationwide, and is headquartered in Hollywood, Florida. For additional information, please visit the Company's website at www.NV5.com. Also visit the Company on Twitter, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Vimeo. Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the safe harbor provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. The Company cautions that these statements are qualified by important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected by the forward-looking statements contained in this news release. Such factors include: (a) changes in demand from the local and state government and private clients that we serve; (b) general economic conditions, nationally and globally, and their effect on the market for our services; (c) competitive pressures and trends in our industry and our ability to successfully compete with our competitors; (d) changes in laws, regulations, or policies; and (e) the "Risk Factors" set forth in the Company's most recent SEC filings. All forward-looking statements are based on information available to the Company on the date hereof, and the Company assumes no obligation to update such statements, except as required by law. * Reuters survey shows drop in OPEC's Feb output * EIA says U.S (Other OTC: UBGXF - news) . oil output fell in Dec, demand rose * China cuts reserve requirement to boost economy * Saudis to work toward limiting market volatility (New (KOSDAQ: 160550.KQ - news) throughout; adds settlement prices; EIA December data) By Barani Krishnan NEW YORK, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Oil prices jumped 3 percent on Monday after China moved to boost its slowing economy, a drop in crude output from OPEC and the U.S., and a pledge by Saudi Arabia to limit market volatility, suggesting a 20-month selloff could be hitting a bottom. China, the world's largest oil importer, cut its reserve requirement ratio, the amount of cash banks must hold as reserves, for a fifth time in a year. U.S. government data showed U.S. crude oil output in December fell for a third straight month to the lowest since December 2014, while oil demand rose for the first time since August, government data showed. Output from the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries fell in February from the highest monthly level in recent history, a Reuters survey found, due to a halt in Iraq's northern exports and outages in other producers. Saudi Arabia, working with Venezuela and Qatar and non-OPEC producer Russia on a plan to freeze oil output at January highs, pledged to "remain in contact with all main producers in attempt to limit volatility" in crude prices. "We have to accept the fact that crude (price) is going to work its way higher from here," said Jeffrey Grossman, energy dealer at New York's BRG Brokerage. Brent crude's front-month contract April settled up 87 cents, or 2.5 percent, at $35.97 a barrel before expiring and going off the board. May Brent settled up $1.13, or 3.2 percent, at $36.57 a barrel. U.S. crude's front-month settled up 97 cents, or 3 percent, at $33.75. Oil prices remain down about 70 percent from their mid-2014 highs above $100, though a steady rebound over the past two weeks has had some traders and investors wondering whether the market has reached a near-term floor. Story continues Even (Taiwan OTC: 6436.TWO - news) so, a Reuters poll of analysts showed them expecting crude to average at just over $40 a barrel this year. Banks from Goldman Sachs (NYSE: GS-PB - news) to Morgan Stanley (Xetra: 885836 - news) and Barclays (LSE: BARC.L - news) have suggested that without an outright cut in output, a production freeze will not boost prices much. Iran has been a stumbling block to the Saudi plan, aiming to raise its oil output to reach pre-sanction export levels. Tehran said on Monday its exports rose over the past month, reaching a 1.75 million barrel per day peak. (Additional reporting by Dmitry Zhdannikov in London; Editing by David Gregorio, Bernadette Baum and Marguerita Choy) BUDAPEST (Reuters) - The euro zone's troubles are forcing its member states to forge closer integration and Hungary will have to decide in coming years whether to give up some sovereignty in economic policy and join the group, Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on Monday. Orban, in power since 2010, has clashed with Brussels on a range of issues from the economy to immigration. A feisty nationalist, he has often accused the European Union of meddling in areas he says should be the preserve of national governments. All EU states are required eventually to join the euro, except Britain and Denmark which have legal opt-outs. Orban's right-wing government has not set a target date for joining the euro and the constitution, which stipulates that the forint is the national currency, would first have to be changed. "There are so many problems in the EU that several countries are warming up to the idea that after the single currency a deeper integration could also be created," Orban said in a speech to Hungarian ambassadors. "This poses a serious challenge to us, to all countries who are not members of the euro zone." He said it was not clear whether the efforts for closer integration within the euro zone would work, but added Hungary faced an inevitable choice - give up important parts of its national sovereignty and join the euro zone or remain outside. "This will be the big intellectual challenge and exciting debate of the next few years," Orban said. Orban said any decision about joining the euro zone would have to be based on "national unity", noting that a two-thirds majority would be needed to amend the constitution. His government currently falls just short of such a majority. A small central European country of 10 million people, Hungary conducts some 80 percent of its trade with the rest of the EU, especially with euro zone members such as Germany. Nineteen of the EU's 28 member states use the euro. Hungary has been a major beneficiary of EU funds for infrastructure and other projects, like Poland. Polish President Andrzej Duda said last year Poland would be ready to adopt the euro when Poles start earning the same as western Europeans. David Nemeth, an analyst at the Hungarian unit of Belgian lender KBC, said Orban did not exclude eventual euro zone membership but probably wanted to play down expectations that Hungary will automatically join the common currency. "Sovereignty is visibly important to him," Nemeth said of Orban. "We can see he is not the kind who will waltz into the euro with his hands up, just to get it done at all costs." (Reporting by Krisztina Than and Marton Dunai; Editing by Gareth Jones) The 88th Annual Academy Awards, hosted by comedian Chris Rock, drew further attention to the lack of diversity in this year's awards season. Among the stream of controversial jokes in his opening monologue, Rock and other presenters continued to touch upon this #OscarsSoWhite controversy throughout the entire show. Other winners used their acceptance speeches to emphasize the importance of their craft. Here are some of the most memorable lines from the evening: The last thing I need is to lose another job to Kevin Hart. Chris Rock in his opening monologue In the '60s, black people did not protest. Why? Because we had real things to protest at the time." Rock Its not about boycotting or anything. We want opportunity. We want black actors to get the same opportunities. Rock Youre damn right Hollywoods racist. Hollywood is sorority racist. Rock We made this film for all the journalists who have and continue to hold the powerful accountable and for the survivors whose courage and will to overcome is really an inspiration to all. Tom McCarthy, best original screenplay winner for Spotlight "Big money is taking over our government, and until right and left goes, no more big money. It has to be like a scarlet letter on these candidates. So I really honestly did not mean either side, but, like, Google it. Just Google it. You can see what the candidates have been paid, and when you elect people that get money from banks and oil and weirdo billionaires, that's who they vote for." Adam McKay, best adapted screenplay winner for The Big Short My mom and dad thank you for giving me the belief that anything can happen even though I would have never believed this. Alicia Vikander, best supporting actress winner for The Danish Girl What another lovely day it could be horribly prophetic, Mad Max, if were not kinder to each other and we dont stop polluting our atmosphere. Jenny Beavan, best costume design winner for Mad Max: Fury Road Story continues I want to salute my beloved picture department and all who work in post who worked with their hands, heads and most importantly, their hearts. Margaret Sixel, best film editing winner for Mad Max: Fury Road "For thousands of years, weve been telling stories in the dark around a flickering light, whether a campfire or a projector. David and I do it with sound. [Director] George Miller would tell us Mad Max is a film we see with our ears. I knew sound could tell my story, but nothing quite like this. Sound artists are storytellers. Thank you, George. I hope to see you around the next campfire." Mark Mangini, achievement in sound editing winner for Mad Max: Fury Road Read More: Oscars: Read Chris Rock's Opening Monologue There are days youre going to feel sad, youre going to feel angry, youre going to feel scared, thats nothing you can choose. But you can make stuff. Make films. Draw. Write. Itll make a world of difference. Pete Docter, best animation winner for Inside Out "I want to take a moment to applaud all of my actors and actresses of color that didnt get nominated tonight. The reason why I say this is because I want them to understand that tonight should not determine the hard work and effort that you put into your craft. At the end of the day, we love what we do and were breaking major ground doing it. These problems of today will eventually become problems of the old. Lets not let this negative issue of diversity beat us." Kevin Hart introducing performer The Weeknd "Ive always just adored stories. So for me to have the chance to work with, I think, one of the greatest storytellers of all time, Steven Spielberg, has been such an honor. Its a wonderful time to be an actor, and Im proud to be part of it." Mark Rylance, best supporting actor winner for Bridge of Spies "This is documentary short film; you cannot make a dime on this. These people will never be rich as long as they live. These people, all they got is this Oscar. This Oscar's going home in a Honda Civic." Louis C.K, introducing the best documentary short film winner [Thank you] to all the brave men out there, like my father and my husband who push women to go to school and work and who want a more just society for women. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, best documentary short winner for A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness Our audiences are global and rich in diversity. Every facet of our industry should be as well. Everyone in Hollywood has a role to play in bringing about vital changes the world needs. I am confident that together, we can shape a future in which all of us can be proud. Cheryl Boone Isaacs, president of the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences Thanks, Chris. Loved you in Madagascar! Hes the zebra, hes hilarious. Jacob Tremblay, thanking Chris Rock for a stepstool Read More: Chris Rock Kicks Off Monologue by Calling Oscars the "White People's Choice Awards" Even in the darkest hours of mankind, there might be a voice within that allows us to remain human. Thats the hope of this film. Laszlo Nemes, best foreign-language film winner for Son of Saul Lets change the culture. We must and we can change the culture. So that no abused woman or man, like the survivors you will see tonight, ever feel they have to ask themselves, &lsquoWhat did I do? They did nothing wrong. Vice President Joe Biden, introducing performer Lady Gaga "No openly gay man had ever won an Oscar, if this is the case, even if it isnt the case, I want to dedicate it this to the LGBT community all around the world. I stand here tonight as a proud gay man, and I hope we can all stand together as equals. Thank you so much." Sam Smith, best original song winner for "Writing's on the Wall" for Spectre So what a great opportunity to our generation, to really liberate ourselves from all prejudice and this tribal thinking, and make sure, for once and forever, that the color of skin becomes as irrelevant as the length of our hair. This is for my father. Thank you very much! Alejandro G. Inarritu, best director winner for The Revenant The thing that I love about moviemaking is how many people it takes to make one. Brie Larson, best actress winner for Room Climate change is real. It is happening right now, it is the most urgent threat facing our entire species, and we need to work collectively together and stop procrastinating. We need to support leaders around the world who do not speak for the big polluters or the big corporations, but who speak for all of humanity, for the indigenous people of the world, for the billions and billions of underprivileged people who will be most affected by this, for our childrens children, and for those people out there whose voices have been drowned out by the politics of greed. I thank you all of this for this amazing award tonight. Let us not take this planet for granted. I do not take tonight for granted. Thank you. Leonardo DiCaprio, best actor winner for The Revenant This film gave a voice to survivors, and this Oscar amplifies that voice. Michael Sugar, best picture winner for Spotlight See More: Oscars: Red Carpet Photos 1. Chris Rock's monologue After weeks of #OscarsSoWhite conversations, everyone wanted to know what host Chris Rock would say about the topic. And he delivered. Rock kicked off his monologue after a brief video introduction montage of the year's films, saying, I counted at least 15 black people on that montage! He welcomed everyone to the Oscars, otherwise known as the White Peoples Choice Awards. He also talked about the stars like Jada Pinkett Smith boycotting the Oscars, saying several people told him he should boycott and quit his hosting gig. How come its only unemployed people who tell you to quit something? Rock asked. "The last thing I need is to lose another job to Kevin Hart. Jada boycotting the Oscars is like me boycotting Rihannas panties. I wasnt invited! he said, adding thats not an invitation I would turn down. 2. Whoopi Goldberg Remakes Joy In one of several video shorts from the night, Chris Rock introduced this remake of Jennifer Lawrences film Joy, which includes a special cameo from Whoopi Goldberg. Goldberg appears as a janitor on a QVC set with Lawrence's character, who's experiencing a bit of stage fright. Maybe one day theyll make a movie about a skinny white lady who invented a mop!" said Goldberg. "Of course a black girl would have to invent a cure to cancer before they even give her a TV movie. 3. Tina Fey and Steve Carell present the award for best production design Presenting the best production design category, Steve Carell started with a genuine compliment. Production designers take us to beautiful new worlds. The interior of a spaceship," he said, referencing The Martian. The thing where a bear lives, said Fey, in reference to The Revenant. An artists studio in 1920s Copenhagen," continued Carell, this time referring to The Danish Girl. Fey, giggling, added of Bridge of Spies, Tom Hanks house? Tina has been drinking, Carell said in a serious tone, to applause and laughs in the audience. Story continues 4. Chris Rock Remakes The Martian In another of Rock's "remakes," he recast himself in Matt Damon's astronaut role, with The Martian's Jeff Daniels and Kristen Wiig discussing how to save Rock, the "black astronaut." "Should we get him?" Daniels asked. "It'll cost $2,500," Daniels told Wiig. "Yeah, can we just leave him up there?" "I'll tell you what's a PR problem spending 2,500 white dollars to save one black astronaut. We'll all be out of jobs." They continued to discuss the pros and cons of saving Rock before deciding to get pho for lunch. 5. Louis C.K presents the award for best documentary short Presenting the award for documentary short subject, Louis C.K. joked about the meaning of Oscars for documentarians. "This Oscar is going home in a Honda Civic," he said, joking about the lack of money in docs. "This Oscar is going to be the nicest thing they own in their life." He also couldn't resist making a quick joke about Mad Max: Fury Road's sweep of the night's technical categories. Before opening the envelope with the real winner (A Girl in the River), the comedian jokingly announced the winner as Mad Max, to laughs from the crowd. George Miller's film had just won six awards for the night, with more nominations still to come. 6. Jacob Tremblay and Abraham Attah present the award for live-action short Presenting live-action short film, awards season sweetheart Jacob Tremblay got some help from host Chris Rock so he could reach the microphone. Rock set out a couple of wooden boxes for the 9-year-old Tremblay and his slightly taller co-presenter, 14-year-old Abraham Attah from Beasts of No Nation. Tremblay thanked the host, telling him, "I loved you in Madagascar," to a big laugh and endearing "aw" from the crowd. "He's the zebra. He's hilarious!" Tremblay added. See More: Oscars: Red Carpet Photos var el = document.getElementById('targetParams');if (el !== null && typeof(el) != 'undefined') {var srcParams = $('.advert iframe').attr('src');var addParams = srcParams.split(";");for (i=1;i<=addParams.length - 1;i++) {if (addParams[i] != '=null' && addParams[i] != 'dcopt=ist' && addParams[i] != '!c=iframe' && addParams[i] != 'pos=t' && addParams[i] != 'sz=728x90') {el.value += addParams[i]+";";}}}brightcove.createExperiences();>>>>>>> The director and crew of Chile's first Oscar win Bear Story which topped the best animated short category at the Oscars last Sunday will get a presidential welcome. Chile's minister of culture Ernesto Ottone announced on Monday that president Michelle Bachelet will receive director Gabriel Osorio and the PunkRobot Animation crew at the presidential house La Moneda in Santiago de Chile on Tuesday, Chilean news site Emol.com reported. "We are very happy for Gabriel and Pato [producer Patricio Escala]; we've strongly supported their campaign to get this award and we are proud," said Ottone. "There are great filmmakers, great creators in animation, and in the whole film industry development of Chile." The 10-minute short, which premiered at the Annecy Festival in June 2014, narrates the life of a father bear who is kidnapped, taken from his family and forced to work in a circus. The plot was inspired by the story of Osorio's grandfather, who was taken prisoner after the military coup in 1973 and was exiled during Augusto Pinochets dictatorship. "This Oscar consolidates Chile's position in the film industry map," CinemaChile CEO Constanza Arena told The Hollywood Reporter. "We're an outstanding country within Latin America for the quality and originality of our film offerings and the talent of local creators. After this, people will follow the news of Chilean film and animation." Chile's last oppportunity at an Oscar was a 2012 nomination in the best foreign-language film category for Pablo Larrain's No. Chris Rock was quick to address the #OscarsSoWhite controversy in his monologue as host of the 88th annual Academy Awards on Sunday night. Perhaps the most anticipated moment of the night, heading into the show, was what Rock would say about the issue. Apart from a tweet calling the Oscars the "White BET Awards" immediately after the nominations were announced, Rock has remained silent on the issue, even canceling a planned cover story for The Hollywood Reporter. Calling the show the "White People's Choice Awards," Rock added: "If you want black nominees every year you need to have back categories ... like: best black friend. 'And the winner for the 18th year in a row, is Wanda Sykes.' Is Hollywood racist? You're damn right Hollywood is racist. Hollywood is sorority racist." He added that the "In Memoriam package is just going to be black people shot by the police on their way to the movies." Here is what Hollywood had to say about his comments: #ChrisRock is absolutely DESTROYING Josh Gad (@joshgad) February 29, 2016 Chris Rock continues to be a hero in many ways to me. Jen Kirkman (@JenKirkman) February 29, 2016 Back in the day "We were too busy being raped & lynched to worry about who won for best cinematography." ~@ChrisRock yvette nicole brown (@YNB) February 29, 2016 They should give Chris Rock a fresh 10 minutes at the top of every hour. #Oscars2016 Richard Roeper (@richardroeper) February 29, 2016 Is it me, or are there a lot of uncomfortable White faces in this #OscarsSoWhite show during @chrisrock monologue? @emergingUS Jose Antonio Vargas (@joseiswriting) February 29, 2016 Wow! Chris Rock. Paula Poundstone (@paulapoundstone) February 29, 2016 Oh, my God. My stomach is hurting I'm laughing so hard. @ChrisRock #Oscars Anson Mount (@ansonmount) February 29, 2016 OH MY GOD @ChrisRock is going in! Black people too worried about lynching to be worried about an oscar? WOW. BRING IT! #Oscars Story continues The Nightly Show (@nightlyshow) February 29, 2016 I think Chris Rock pulled strings to make sure no black people were nominated so he could do this set. #Oscars Kumail Nanjiani (@kumailn) February 29, 2016 "Is Hollywood racist? Ya damn right." - @chrisrock #OscarsSoWhite W. Kamau Bell (@wkamaubell) February 29, 2016 I love chris rock. #Oscars Alex Gibney (@alexgibneyfilm) February 29, 2016 I didn't think Chris Rock would stay this long on #OscarsSoWhite. I am SO glad he is! Genius. Smart. Eloquent. Hilarious. Jesse Tyler Ferguson (@jessetyler) February 29, 2016 This is probably the most interesting opening monologue the #Oscars has ever had. @chrisrock Patricia Heaton (@PatriciaHeaton) February 29, 2016 Watching @chrisrock kill it on the Oscars. Good job Chris.Sinbad (@sinbadbad) February 29, 2016 Yes @chrisrock ... @idriselba @JasonMitch #willsmith should have been nominated. DEFINITELY Angie Harmon (@Angie_Harmon) February 29, 2016 He starts in right away....@chrisrock #Oscars Melissa Grelo (@melissagrelo) February 29, 2016 Did he say gramma hanging from a tree?!!#Oscars Kym Whitley (@kymwhitley) February 29, 2016 I am also living for the UNCOMFORTABLE WHITE PEOPLE REACTION SHOTS #Oscars Michelle Collins (@michcoll) February 29, 2016 Chris Rock killed the opening monologue. Terrific. Stephen King (@StephenKing) February 29, 2016 Hosting the #Oscars is as tough a job as there is in television. It's a 9.5. This year it's an 11. And #ChrisRock just delivered. Ben Mankiewicz (@BenMank77) February 29, 2016 This #ChrisRock monologue is more effective than boycotting the #OscarsSoWhite Enrique Acevedo (@Enrique_Acevedo) February 29, 2016 It's kind of like #OscarsSoBoring after that monologue though #Oscars Kiki Von Glinow (@KikiVonGlinow) February 29, 2016 See More: Oscars: Red Carpet Photos var el = document.getElementById('targetParams');if (el !== null && typeof(el) != 'undefined') {var srcParams = $('.advert iframe').attr('src');var addParams = srcParams.split(";");for (i=1;i<=addParams.length - 1;i++) {if (addParams[i] != '=null' && addParams[i] != 'dcopt=ist' && addParams[i] != '!c=iframe' && addParams[i] != 'pos=t' && addParams[i] != 'sz=728x90') {el.value += addParams[i]+";";}}}brightcove.createExperiences();>>>>>>> Hungary scored its historic second foreign-language Oscar on Sunday night when Son of Saul won the Academy Award, following its Golden Globe win earlier this year. Hungarian media lauded the win Monday morning, with daily newspaper Nepszabadsag declaring that the success of Son of Saul meant that the film had "irrevocably entered into film history," starting with winning a grand jury prize in Cannes last year, then the Golden Globes honor and finally an Oscar. Online news portal Hungary Today noted that the film's "sensational" success also includes Saturday's prize for best international film at the Independent Spirit Awards in Santa Monica. Industry folks also cheered the win. The Oscar accolade for Son of Saul was earned thanks to the support that talented directors receive from the national film fund, its head Andy Vajna told The Hollywood Reporter. "If you are willing to work hard and have a good, creative idea, then it is possible to make it happen," he said. "This was an example of getting a three-page idea from a director that became a world success. I think it shows to the young people of Hungary that, yes, it is possible to do I think this is a great opportunity for them." Vajna carved a career as a Hollywood producer with such films as Rambo and Robocop to his credit before returning to his native Budapest five years ago to take up the role of government commissioner in charge of a new film funding system. Read More: Oscars: Hungary Wins Its First Foreign-Language Honor Since Fall of Communism The fund put more than $1 million into Son of Saul, a harrowing depiction of one day in the life of a concentration camp inmate who is forced to help dispose of bodies from gas chambers, after Laszlo Nemes, a first-time feature director, submitted a brief treatment. "We looked at [Nemes'] short films," said Vajna. "Because it was his first [feature-length] film, we were sort of restrictive in our financing; we gave him 300 million forints, which is about one million Euros, and we supported him and helped him in the development. But when we saw the final product, we were amazed there was nothing to do it was just right. The movie spoke for itself. I am very proud of Laszlo to be able to create something that went beyond the pages of the script." Story continues Vajna described Hungary's winning the Oscar as "a unique experience." "The film is fantastic," he said. "For Hungary, it is a unique accomplishment that hasn't happened in the past three decades; the only previous Oscar was for Istzan Szabo's Mephisto in 1981." Read More: Berlin: Hungary's National Film Fund a Success, Directors Say Hungary's film fund, which is supported by the proceeds of one of the country's national lotteries, offers filmmakers the chance to begin their careers, added Vajna. "I have worked in the U.S. for a long time and I know how difficult it is to put together a movie, especially a first film," he said. "In this system in Hungary, it is so easy. It allows you the chance to prove yourself. If you have an idea and a vision and are willing to work hard for it, then it is possible to succeed." This year, a new plan will be introduced to fully fund five small-budget films by new directors to allow them "to try their hand" and a technical training school for crew will also be set up to help meet demand from international productions that take advantage of Hungary's advanced network of studios and generous tax incentive provisions. Last year, around $255 million was spent in Hungary on domestic and foreign-film productions. Since the new fund was set up five years ago, Hungarian movies have won more than 130 international awards at festivals, including Kornel Mundruczo's Un Certain Regard win for White God at Cannes and the Crystal Globe at Karlovy Vary for Janos Szasz's The Notebook. See More: Oscars: Red Carpet Photos Great Maestro, finally! tweeted Italys prime minister Matteo Renzi after Ennio Morricones triumphant Oscar win at the 88th Academy Awards. The 87-year-old composer has scored over 500 film and TV works, 100 classical pieces, and had one honorary Oscar and five other Oscar nominations going into Sunday, but his award for the best original score for The Hateful Eight was his first competitive win. Morricone famously composed the Sergio Leone Dollars Trilogy and has worked with Hollywoods top directors. His first nomination was for Days of Heaven in 1979 (Terrence Malick), followed by The Mission in 1986 (Roland Joffe), The Untouchables in 1987 (Brian de Palma), Bugsy in 1991 (Berry Levinson) and Malena in 2000 (Giuseppe Tornatore). At 87, Morricones victory may make him the oldest Oscar winner ever. The Academy only keeps age data for acting and directing categories, and no one in these categories has ever exceeded the age of 82, when Christopher Plummer won for Beginners. The Academy has since released a statement saying it was not aware of a competitive award winner older than Morricone. Charlie Chaplin was 83 when he won an Oscar in 1973 for co-writing the score to Limelight. Read More: Ennio Morricone Accepts Golden Globe for 'The Hateful Eight' in Rome His arrival on the stage of the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood Sunday night was greeted with a standing ovation by the assembled Hollywood elite. Morricone thanked the Academy for the award as well as the other contenders, saying: My tribute goes to also to the other candidates and in particular to the esteemed John Williams. Williams was nominated for Star Wars: The Force Awakens, alongside Carter Burwell for Carol, Thomas Newman for Bridge of Spies, and Johann Johannsson for Sicario. Morricone then continued paying homage to his director. There isn't a great soundtrack without a great movie that inspires it," he said. "This is why I thank Quentin Tarantino for choosing me, as well as the producer Harvey Weinstein and the whole crew. Story continues While Tarantino, who has always been a huge fan of Morricones, has previously used his music in his films, including Kill Bill Vol.1 and Inglorious Basterds, this is the first time Morricone has composed an entire score for the director. Morricone finished his speech addressing his wife, saying: I dedicate this music and this award to my wife Maria. Read More: Ennio Morricone to Get Star on Hollywood Walk of Fame Italys Minister of Culture Dario Franceschini also tweeted: Oscar to the Maestro Morricone: triumph of an all time giant. And designers Dolce & Gabbana issued their congratulations to the composer, eager to point out that he was wearing one of their tuxedos. Hollywood was also eager to congratulate the maestro. Quincy Jones, who presented to award to Morricone, called him his brother. Mia Farrow wrote that Ennio Morricone has given us so many magnificent scores. James Wood tweeted: The legendary genius #EnnioMorricone scored Once Upon a Time in America. His music was not of this earth, so beautiful it was... #BravoEnnio. And Josh Gad wrote: I mean, can we talk about how unbelievably cool it is that #EnnioMorricone is still making a Oscar winning scores. Goosebumps." See More: Oscars: Red Carpet Photos By Sue Horton LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - They were supposed to free up Oscar recipients to say something profound during their 45 allotted seconds on stage. But the thank-you scrolls that ran at the bottom of the screen for the first time at the 88th Academy Awards on Sunday didn't noticeably curtail the winners' shout-outs from the dais. Nor did they lead to an over-abundance of eloquent messages. The scroll was a river of names flowing swiftly across the bottom of the screen, moving too fast for any but the most motivated readers to follow. Some nominees used only first names, others added surnames, too. On Twitter, viewers were largely critical of the scroll, with some likening it to a school closure ticker or an emergency warning system, while others called it a distraction. Comedian Paula Poundstone tweeted: "I hate the scroll at the bottom of the screen. It has no soul." Only one Oscar winner drew widespread social media raves for his scroll: Pete Docter, co-winner of the Oscar for animated feature film. He closed his list of thank-yous with a note to his children: "Nick & Elie - okay yes, let's get a dog." When Lesley Vanderwalt, Elka Wardega and Damian Martin won the award for makeup and hairstyling for their work on "Mad Max: Fury Road," their list of acknowledgments concluded with a nod to cosmetics and skin care brands, including MAC, Cosmesis and Bluebird. The scroll of Gabriel Osorio and Pato Escala, winners of the best animated short film, included thanks to the Chilean government and Brooks Brothers. But even when they'd thanked numerous people in their scrolls, the winners felt a need to thank their colleagues, spouses, children, parents, agents, studios and others from the stage as well. As in other years, the show had its share of issue-oriented acceptance speeches. "Spotlight" producer Michael Sugar, whose film about abuse in the Catholic Church won best picture, expressed hope that it would produce a choir of victims' voices "that will resonate all the way to the Vatican." On receiving the best actor award for his work in "The Revenant," Leonardo DiCaprio spoke of the need to address climate change, while Alejandro Inarritu, who won the directing award for the same movie spoke out against prejudice. DiCaprio was among the few who opted out of a scroll. The scroll innovation appeared to have no effect on the length of the show, which as usual clocked in at about three and a half hours. (Additional Reporting by Alex Dobuzinskis and Piya Sinha-Roy; Editing by Sara Catania and Mary Milliken) North Korea state media reports that Otto Frederick Warmbier pleaded guilty to "severe crimes" against the state, according to Reuters. The North Korean government has been holding the 21-year-old University of Virginia student since January, after he allegedly tried to steal an item bearing a political slogan from his hotel in Pyongyang. The Associated Press has shared footage of Warmbier who, during an arrangement, called his actions the "worst mistake of his life." Read more: North Korea Launches Another Missile in Probable ICBM Test On Monday, an apparently tearful Warmbier apologized before North Korean government officials. "On the early morning of Jan. 1, 2016, I committed my crime of taking out the important political slogan from the staff-only area of the Yanggakdo International Hotel, aimed at harming the work ethic and the motivation of the Korean people," Warmbier said. "After committing my crime against the people and government of the DPR of Korea, I was detained on Jan. 2, 2016 at the Pyongyang International Airport." "I have no idea what sort of penalty I may face but I am begging to the Korean people and government for my forgiveness and i am praying to the heavens so that I may be returned home to my family," he said. Tensions between North Korea and the U.S. and the international community at large -- have been higher than usual in recent months. In early January, the country claimed it had successfully carried out a hydrogen bomb test, though many doubted the veracity of North Korea's claim. Each year, about 6,000 Western travelers visit North Korea, though it's not advised, according to Reuters. In December, the North Korean government charged a Canadian pastor with "subversion" and sentenced him to life in prison and hard labor behind bars. By Idrees Ali WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Pakistan should not be blamed for carrying out a "duplicitous policy" or for the problems of Afghanistan, a senior Pakistan official said on Monday at the start of talks in the United States. U.S. lawmakers have expressed concern about a possible sale of F-16 fighter jets to Pakistan because of its impact on relations with India and Pakistan's policies in Afghanistan, but national security adviser Sartaj Aziz said the sale would help stability in the region. "We are blamed (for) pursuing a duplicitous policy," Aziz said to reporters and U.S. and Pakistani officials before the meetings in Washington began. "Regrettably there is a tendency to blame Pakistan, in (a) somewhat simplistic fashion for most of the difficulties and challenges that engage Afghanistan," Aziz said. The U.S. government announced on Feb. 12 that it had approved the sale to Pakistan of up to eight additional F-16 fighter jets, and radar and other equipment in a deal valued at $699 million. Senate Foreign Relations Committee Chairman Bob Corker told Secretary of State John Kerry in a letter that he was concerned about Pakistan's ties to the Haqqani network, a militant group that U.S. officials have said is behind attacks in Afghanistan. U.S. lawmakers have until March 12 to block the sale. Such action is rare since deals are usually well vetted before any formal notification, and it remained unclear if lawmakers would thwart the agreement. Senator John McCain of Arizona, chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, urged the Senate Foreign Relations Committee to conduct a hearing on the possible sale. Afghan government and Taliban representatives are expected to meet in Islamabad by the first week of March for their first direct talks since a previous round of the peace process broke down last year. (Reporting by Idrees Ali; editing by Grant McCool) (Reuters) - Totteham Hotspur full back Danny Rose is blooming at the Premier League title contenders as shown by his winner against Swansea City on Sunday and the decision to keep him at the club was the right one, manager Mauricio Pochettino said. Rose, who spent four loan spells away from White Hart Lane, seemed certain to leave before Pochettino arrived in 2014, got a vital goal in a 2-1 come-from-behind home win over Swansea to keep Spurs hot on the trail of Leicester City at the top. Pochettino said Rose was one of the first players he spoke to when he took charge of Tottenham, who are second in the table and chasing their first league title in 55 years. "My idea from the beginning was to give him a chance to show he has the quality to play for Tottenham," the manager said in British media. "When we arrived it was in a moment that was difficult for him but today I am very pleased for him because he scored and the ground was singing his name." Rose has been a Tottenham player since 2007, but more than half of his 81 league appearances for the club have come in the last two seasons under Argentine Pochettino. (Reporting by Simon Jennings in Bengaluru; Editing by Ken Ferris) MONROVIA (Reuters) - Police fired teargas and threw stones at a crowd which gathered near a courthouse in the Liberian capital Monrovia on Monday to demand the release of a political activist charged with sedition, a Reuters witness said. Street violence is rare in a country that has enjoyed stability and democracy since the end of a civil war in 2003 and the incident will be seen as a sign of increased political tension ahead of elections in October 2017. Dozens of protesters sought the release of Vandalark Patricks, believing the founder of youth advocacy group SURE-Liberiahe would be brought from prison to the Temple of Justice which houses the main courthouse after his arrest last week. In the event, he was not brought to court. Patricks was charged with sedition after making specific allegations of government involvement in a series of high-profile deaths over several years in the West African country. The body of a former head of the Liberia Petroleum Refining Company Harry Greaves, who became a prominent government critic, washed up on a beach in Monrovia last month. Liberia's government, headed by Noble peace prize winner Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf, has denied wrongdoing. Sirleaf will step down next year and politicians are jockeying for advantage ahead of the first poll since the end of the war without an incumbent. Patricks says he has no political ties but is widely viewed as an opponent of the government. Liberia is recovering after the war, but its economy was hurt in 2014 and last year by an Ebola epidemic that killed more than 4,800 people. (Reporting by Alphonso Toweh; Writing by Emma Farge; Editing by Matthew Mpoke Bigg and Richard Balmforth) LISBON (Reuters) - Portugal's government has proposed Antonio Guterres, a former UN high commissioner for refugees, as a candidate for secretary-general of the United Nations, it said on Monday. Guterres was Portugal's prime minister between 1995 and 2002 and served two terms as U.N. high commissioner from 2005 until last year. "With this step, Portugal actively contributes to the selection process by presenting a candidate who is exceptionally well qualified to be the next Secretary-General of the United Nations," the prime minister's office said in a statement. It said the prime minister wrote on Monday to the presidents of the U.N. General Assembly and Security Council to formally submit Guterres' candidacy. Guterres led UNHCR at the beginning of the refugee crisis caused by the war in Syria, which is posing increasing challenges for Europe. The current U.N. secretary-general, Ban Ki-moon, took office in January 2007 and is due to serve until the end of 2016. (Reporting By Axel Bugge; Editing by Richard Balmforth) By Stefanie McIntyre and Donny Kwok HONG KONG (Reuters) - Hong Kong residents voted on Sunday in a legislative council by-election, with a "radical" pro-democracy candidate who was arrested in a recent riot running in what is being seen as a barometer of political tension in the financial hub. The poll, to fill a single seat vacated by a former pro-democracy politician, is being watched for signs of growing support for a burgeoning "indigenous" movement that backs more extreme protests, including violence, to push for greater democracy. Candidates from across the political spectrum contested the poll that was narrowly won by Alvin Yeung of the pro-democracy Civic Party, but most attention focused on Edward Leung, a leader of "Hong Kong Indigenous" and one of the first street activists to make a foray into mainstream politics. Leung placed third, after Yeung and Holden Chow, a candidate from the city's biggest pro-Beijing party, with about 15 percent of the 432,000 votes cast, a surprisingly strong showing. "We, the young generation, are determined to sacrifice ourselves for Hong Kong's future," Leung told Reuters on the campaign trail, as supporters held banners reading: "Vote for a revolution". Hong Kong, a former British colony that returned to Chinese rule in 1997 under a "one country, two systems" formula that gives it a high degree of autonomy, was rocked by massive protests in 2014 demanding Beijing's Communist Party leaders grant the city full democracy. Beijing's refusal of concessions has embittered a younger generation of activists, including Leung, who have pledged to fight on. Some of the tension surfaced this month, when hundreds of protesters clashed with police in a night-long riot. Leung was among the dozens arrested in the worst violence on Hong Kong's streets for years. While Leung did not ultimately win, his surprisingly strong showing, with 15 percent of the overall vote, will be a concern for Beijing's Communist Party leaders, who call such indigenous groups "separatists". The results also reflect deep anti-China sentiment ahead of a full legislative council poll this year, pitting a pro-democracy camp that now enjoys a slender one-third veto bloc against pro-Beijing and pro-establishment parties. "We have been called rioters, but these rioters have now won over 60,000 votes," Leung told reporters after the results. "In September, the entire indigenous movement will prepare to fight into Hong Kong's political sphere." Hong Kong risks seeing further chaos and political uncertainty is hurting the economy, financial secretary John Tsang warned in his budget speech last week. As one of Asia's safest cities, known for its strong rule of law passed down from the British, many in the affluent city of 7.3 million remain opposed to any radicalism. "We need a stable environment," said a 67-year-old retired businessman, surnamed Chu, who voted for a pro-establishment candidate. "The (radicals) will add uncertainty to Hong Kong." (Writing by James Pomfret; Editing by Alex Richardson and Clarence Fernandez) A handwritten letter by famed naturalist Charles Darwin to a British marine biologist was put up for auction yesterday (Feb. 25) but failed to sell, according to Nate D. Sanders Auctions, the Los Angeles-based auction house that arranged the sale. The letter, which was originally listed with a minimum bid of $69,500, was expected to be one of several of Darwin's letters to be auctioned off recently, but the historic document did not end up being sold. Last September, a letter in which Darwin expressed his lack of belief in the Bible sold for a record $197,000, according to Bonhams, the British auction house that arranged the sale in New York. That was more than three times the previous record of $59,142 for a four-page letter that Darwin had penned to his niece, CBS News reported. The letter being auctioned off by Nate D. Sanders was signed and dated Dec. 12, 1860, and was written approximately a year after Darwin published the first edition of his famous book "On the Origin of Species." The book, published in 1859, detailed his work on the theory of evolution and is considered the foundation of evolutionary biology. It introduced the idea that species evolved over generations as a result of natural selection of heritable physical or behavioral traits that increase the chances of an organism's survival. In his letter, Darwin told biologist George Charles Wallich that he was planning to release a corrected edition of the book and that he was profoundly impacted by Wallich's research. [See Images of Charles Darwin's Life on Display] The document thanks Wallich for sending a copy of his book "Notes on the Presence of Animal at Vast Depth in the Sea," published in 1860. Darwin also expresses excitement about Wallich's research on brittle starfish, and he questions Wallich about his findings on basaltic pebbles. In the letter, Darwin also asks Wallich about his observations of foraminifera, a type of single-celled organism with a shell that lives in many marine environments. He wrote, "The foraminifer deposit was sometimes or often thin; and this is the point on which I am anxious for information It bears on the decay of the exuviae [exoskeleton remains] of organisms at the bottom of the sea; and is important for me in relation to some few passages in my Book" Story continues "This signed letter concerning deep-ocean discoveries shows Darwin's interest in biological life and geology at the ocean bottom and his meticulous efforts at clarifying the findings of Wallich," auction house owner Nate Sanders said in a statement. "Darwin's attention to details demonstrates why he was such a superb naturalist." More information about the letter can be found on the Nate D. Sanders website. Follow Knvul Sheikh on Twitter @KnvulS. Follow Live Science @livescience, Facebook & Google+. Original article on Live Science. Copyright 2016 LiveScience, a Purch company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Republican presidential candidate Sen. Marco Rubio shakes hands with supporters at a rally in Purcellville, Va., on Feb. 28. (Photo: Cliff Owen/AP) PURCELLVILLE, Va. When Marco Rubio recalled his debate showdown with his rival for the Republican presidential nomination Donald Trump, the rush of applause and cheering that filled a college gymnasium here Sunday afternoon sounded like a huge sigh of relief. For the several thousand listening to the U.S. senator from Florida, the emergence of someone anyone to throw punches back at Trump was cathartic. In fact, the crowd didnt even let Rubio finish his sentence when he brought up the debate in Houston. He began: Thursday night, I decided that it was time to unmask the true nature of a man The rest was drowned out by the roar of the crowd here on the campus of Patrick Henry College, an hour west of Washington, D.C. As Mike Farris, the chancellor of Patrick Henry College, and one of the pioneers of the Christian homeschooling movement in the United States, put it: Somebody has to tell the truth about Donald Trump. To evangelicals like Farris, the unleashing of Rubio over the last three days has made him the premier challenger to Trump. Thats despite the fact that a former student remarked to me that he had thought Farris would endorse Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, whose background in competitive debating makes him a model of the kind of student Patrick Henry tries to produce. Yet Farris said that at Patrick Henry, Most of the student body, for sure, and many of the faculty and others are definitely leaning strongly toward Rubio. Trump is a persona non grata around here, mostly, Farris said. Theres a good amount of Cruz support as well. But I think Rubios approach the hope for the next generation is more appealing to most of the people here. Rubio held four rallies Sunday in different parts of Virginia, one of four states where his campaign holds out hope of stealing a win from Trump on Super Tuesday. There are 12 states holding primaries or caucuses Tuesday. The Rubio campaign thinks it can perform best in Virginia, Arkansas, Minnesota and Oklahoma. Story continues The Virginia barnstorming tour continued at a furious pace for Rubio, who also held four events in three states on Saturday and has five events in four states scheduled for Monday. The almost frantic schedule underscores the reality for Rubio that although he has momentum, he is still far behind Trump in most polls, and desperately needs a win somewhere Tuesday. Rubio has succeeded, however, in diverting some of the political conversation away from Trump. On Sunday morning, Trump found himself on the defensive on each of the four news talk shows to which he gave interviews. On Fox News Sunday, for example, his interview with Chris Wallace hit five topics: Rubios charge that Trump is a con man; the admission by Trump that illegal immigrants from Poland worked on the construction of Trump Tower; criticisms about the legitimacy of a now-defunct business called Trump University; the question of whether Trump will release his tax returns; and Trumps comments that he would like to make it easier to sue news organizations for libel. Trump also doubled down on a statement he made after Thursdays debate, in response to questions about why he has hired hundreds of foreign-born immigrants for jobs at his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, even though job applications were received from hundreds of American citizens. As he has before, Trump insisted that many American citizens would not want such jobs, an argument that undercuts his harsh anti-immigration rhetoric. A lot of the people that we have made offers to when they hear its a part-time job, or a its a four-month or five-month job and I understand this theyre not interested. Theyre American people. Theyre not interested, Trump said on CBS Face the Nation. Continuing his newsmaking Sunday, Trump also refused, on CNNs State of the Union, to repudiate former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke, and the Klan itself. Would you just say unequivocally you condemn them and you dont want their support? CNNs Jake Tapper asked Trump. Well, I have to look at the group. I mean, I dont know what group youre talking about, Trump said. Certainly, I would disavow if I thought there was something wrong. I mean, Im just talking about David Duke and the Ku Klux Klan here, Tapper said. Honestly, I dont know David Duke. I dont believe I have ever met him. Im pretty sure I didnt meet him. And I just dont know anything about him, Trump replied. Trump was not telling the truth. In 2000, he told Matt Lauer on NBCs The Today Show that he was not going to run for president as a candidate of the Reform Party precisely because of Dukes involvement in the party. Youve got David Duke just joined: a bigot, a racist, a problem. This is not exactly the people you want in your party, Trump told Lauer. In Virginia, Rubio told the crowd at Patrick Henry about Trumps statements in 2000. He knows exactly who David Duke is, Rubio said. We cannot be a party that nominates someone who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan. Sen. Tim Scott, R-S.C., the Republican Partys only African-American senator, released a statement saying that Any candidate who cannot immediately condemn a hate group like the KKK does not represent the Republican Party, and will not unite it. Trump was clearly irritated by Rubios calling him a con man, in return mocking Rubio during his one public event of the day, in Alabama. Now he wants to act like a big man. Oh, Trumps a con man. Trumps a con man. Im a con man? Trump said. I built a business. And I gotta listen to this guy? Trump returned to the subject later in his speech. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks at a rally in Madison, Ala., on Feb. 28. (Photo: John Bazemore/AP) It was such an insulting thing. You dont call somebody of achievement that when youve done nothing. This guy is a dishonest guy. Hes not cool. He sweats too much. And I dont want him negotiating for us, he said. The real estate mogul, who has taken to calling Rubio Little Marco, attacked Rubio in vague terms over some of his financial dealings that have come under heavy scrutiny in the past, but spent most of his time ridiculing Rubios debate meltdown in New Hampshire earlier this month, when he repeated himself numerous times in response to criticism from New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie. Christie, who dropped out of the race, has since endorsed Trump. We dont need a fainter to negotiate with China and Putin. We dont need a fainter to knock the hell out of ISIS, Trump said, intimating that Rubio would not be up to the task of president. We dont need a guy whos sweating and scared. At Rubios last rally of the day, in rural southwest Virginia, he responded to Trump with more of the ridicule that he has begun to use against the reality TV star. Trump, Rubio said, doesnt sweat because his pores are clogged from the spray tan. He also alluded to the size of Trumps hands, a subject about which Trump has shown that he is apparently insecure, and used it to call into question Mr. Trumps manhood. Hes always calling me Little Marco. Ill admit, hes taller than me. Hes like 6-foot-2, which is why I dont understand why his hands are the size of someone whos 5-foot-2. Have you seen his hands? Rubio said, holding up his hands with fingers clenched. They look like this. And you know what they say about men with small hands, Rubio joked. You cant trust them. The Republican primary has entered into new territory over the last week. Trumps huge win in the Nevada caucuses last Tuesday, following big victories in South Carolina a week ago and in New Hampshire on Feb. 9, has ushered in a sense of doom for those in the Republican Party who thought he would eventually fade or self-destruct. Sen. Marco Rubio waves to supporters at a college campaign stop in Purcellville, Va., on Feb. 28. (Photo: Carlos Barria/Reuters) Rubio has emerged as the only Republican willing, and able for at least a few days now, to counter Trumps brutal mockery and outsized, dominating media presence. Underneath the jokes, Rubio and his campaign are nearing a place of no return, of total and complete opposition to Trump that precludes ever closing ranks behind Trump if he is the nominee. Other Republicans are reaching a similar point. Sen. Ben Sasse, R-Neb., who has been an outspoken critic of Trump, said on Twitter Sunday night that if Trump becomes the nominee, he will not support him. If Trump becomes the Republican nominee, my expectation is that Ill look for some third candidate a conservative option, a Constitutionalist, Sasse wrote. Rubio, who used the hashtag #NeverTrump on Twitter this past weekend, talked openly of a contested convention on CBS Face the Nation. Let me just say the rules are what they are in the Republican Party. You have to have x number of delegates in order to be the nominee. And if you dont have those number of delegates, then theres a process in place, Rubio said. Here is what is never going to happen in this race: Theres never going to be a time where the Republican Party rallies around and says, You have to get out, or anyone has to get out, for purposes of rallying around Donald Trump, Rubio said. And so were going to do whatever [it] takes. We will be in this race as long as it takes. Rubio repeated this point on Fox News. You need 1,237 delegates to be the Republican nominee. Donald Trump will never have that number of delegates. I dont care how long I have to work, he said. Moscow (AFP) - Moscow police on Monday arrested a nanny for beheading a young girl in her care, with witnesses saying the black-clad woman was carrying a severed head and threatening to "blow everyone up". The agitated woman, who was reportedly shouting "Allahu Akbar", was spotted pacing up and down outside a Moscow metro station in front of bewildered bystanders. Russian investigators said a woman had been detained after killing a child aged three or four who reportedly had learning disabilities, then setting fire to the apartment and fleeing. "I hate democracy. I am a terrorist. I want you dead," the woman in a headscarf shouted as she waved the head, according to footage broadcast by local television. "You have become so hardened, you have eliminated so many of us. Look I am a suicide bomber, I will die, doomsday will come in a second," she said in accented Russian. Witness Alyona Kuratova told independent Dozhd TV that the woman was holding the head by its hair. Kuratova described scenes of chaos, with police cars and ambulances arriving at the scene and some people yelling: "terror attack, terror attack." She said she could not make out what the woman shouted but some media reported that she yelled "Allahu Akbar" -- Arabic for "God is greatest" -- and threatened to blow herself up. Another witness said the woman shouted that she would "kill everyone, blow up everyone." Some said the woman had paced up and down for some 20 minutes before she was detained near Oktyabrskoe Pole metro station. - 'Monstrous and inexplicable' - LifeNews, a news service with close ties to law enforcement agencies, said that when police approached her for a document check, she pulled the head out of her bag and started yelling that she had killed a child. Television footage showed several men approaching and overpowering the woman, who some media reported suffered mental health problems. Story continues "Monstrous and inexplicable," tweeted Russia's children's rights commissioner Pavel Astakhov, urging parents to carefully check on the mental state of nannies when they are hired. Investigators said a nanny had been detained after the body of a child aged three or four years with "signs of violent death" was found on Monday in an apartment in northwest Moscow. "According to preliminary information, the child's nanny... waited until the parents left the apartment with their elder child and, guided by unknown motives, killed the little one, set the apartment on fire and left the scene," the Investigative Committee said. State news agency TASS, citing a law enforcement source, said: "The child's body was without the head. According to a preliminary version, the nanny carried away the head." - Psychiatric tests - Investigators said a criminal probe had been opened and that the suspect would undergo a psychiatric examination to establish whether she "understands the meaning of her actions and behaviour". Interfax news agency, citing a law enforcement source, identified the woman as 38-year-old Gyulchekhra Bobokulova, a native of Muslim-majority Uzbekistan. LifeNews said Bobokulova had told authorities she committed the crime because of her husband's infidelity, adding that she may be suffering from manic psychosis. The mother of the slain girl was taken by ambulance to an undisclosed location, Zvezda television channel said. Media reports said the nanny had looked after the girl, who suffered a learning disability because of a medical mistake when she was born, for about 18 months. Her parents had been collecting money to treat their daughter in Germany, mass-circulation Moskovsky Komsomolets reported. Russians have in recent years seen all kinds of gruesome murders and attacks including the bombing of planes and the metro. But the little girl's murder sent shockwaves across Moscow, with many saying the woman had not been apprehended quickly enough and questioning the professionalism of police. No longer do we have to brave crowded shopping malls, struggle to reach high-hung tops and wait in long checkout lines. As children of the digital age, we now have the option to spare ourselves the hassle of shopping in-store by purchasing clothing online. Of course, shopping online does come with its own fair share of challenges. When ordering clothes with an online retailer, it can be easy to select the wrong size, misjudge quality or choose an unflattering fit. You can avoid online shopping blunders with these eight indispensable tips: 1. Make a list Just as with shopping in-store, shopping online can lead to impulse buys if you don't have a clear idea of what you are shopping for. Before kicking off your digital shopping expedition, make a list of items and gifts you need. Not only will a clear plan of action help you keep from becoming overwhelmed with choices, it will help you determine where to begin. 2. Know your size The first step to finding the perfect fit is determining what your perfect fit is. Dig up a soft measuring tape and write down your shoulder chest, bust, waist, arm length, inseam and shoe measurements. To ensure you get the most accurate numbers, you might want to ask a friend to help you out. 3. Check out the sizing information Remember, there are no universal sizing standards among different brands. One manufacturer's small could be another's large. One brand's size 2 could be another's size 6. To help avoid confusion, most online retailers -- including Nordstrom, Gap, Macy's and Overstock -- have sizing guides for their merchandise. Familiarize yourself with a retailer's sizing policy to determine what size will fit your figure best. 4. Read Reviews Do your research before purchasing an item. Check out product reviews listed on the retailer's site, as well as consumer reviews on Amazon. Customer reviews will give you an idea of an item's material, quality and fit. 5. Hunt for deals You may be able to find the exact same item at a different retailer for a different price -- for instance, you might find that one site offers the same floral top at half the price offered at another. Try typing the product name and information into Google to compare pricing from different retailers. Hunt down promo codes and coupons on deal-offering sites to stack your savings. Story continues 6. Note shipping policies Be wary of shipping costs -- one retailer might offer an awesome deal on one item, but then hit you with a hefty shipping fee. Remember to take shipping costs into consideration before making a purchase. Some retailers offer free shipping, and many offer free shipping if you order over a certain amount. To save on delivery, try to buy multiple items from the same retailer whenever possible. 7. Note return policies Sometimes, you can follow all these steps and still be disappointed when your new clothes arrive. That's why it's a good idea to note the return policy of a retailer before clicking "place order". If you shop at an online store with a straightforward return policy, you could save yourself a lot of hassle down the road. Retailers like Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos will let you return items for a full refund, and even sometimes cover return shipping costs. 8. Prioritize security Whenever you use a credit card to shop online, it's important to take steps to protect your identity from hackers. To identify and sidestep traps, follow these rules of thumb: -- Buy from trusted brands. Limit your online shopping to established retailers, and avoid shopping at brands you've never heard of and on sites that look dicey. Researching retailers online is a good way to determine whether a site is trustworthy or not. -- Stick to verified sites. Before entering credit card information, double check to confirm the checkout page address starts with "https://". The "s" after the http indicates that a site transfers data through a secure connection. -- Check your credit card statement often. After making a purchase online, keep a close eye on your credit card statements for the subsequent two weeks. Watch for unknown or suspicious charges, and call the credit card company immediately if you spy something fishy. With most cards, you only have up to 60 days to dispute a transaction. -- Update antivirus and malware protection. Antivirus and malware software can help find and eradicate viruses and spyware that can steal your personal information. Be sure to frequently check for updates to ensure you've got the latest version. Maria Lalonde honed her deal-hunting skills while traveling through South America and Southeast Asia, combing colorful local markets for unique finds. Her love of blogging and thirst for deals brought her to Offers.com, where she blogs about savings tips. By David Alexander WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A Sikh Army captain filed suit against the U.S. military on Monday after being ordered to undergo "extraordinary, targeted, repetitive testing" before receiving permanent permission to wear a beard and long hair for his religion, court papers said. Captain Simratpal Singh, a member of the 349th Engineer Battalion who was awarded the Bronze Star for his work clearing explosives from roads in Kandahar Province in Afghanistan, was granted a temporary accommodation last year allowing him to dress according to his religious beliefs, the court filing said. But Assistant Army Secretary Debra Wada recently ordered additional tests before she would grant him a permanent exemption, saying she wanted to be certain he could safely wear a helmet and gas mask if he had a turban, uncut hair and a beard, the lawsuit said. "Defendants abruptly informed Captain Singh that, because of his Sikh religion, he must immediately undergo extraordinary, targeted, repetitive testing ostensibly to ensure he can properly wear a combat helmet and safety mask," the suit said. "This discriminatory treatment is unfounded and violates the Army's own regulations," the suit said, adding that other soldiers had not been subjected to testing beyond what is given to most troops. Singh recently passed the standard gas mask testing with the rest of his unit, his supporters said. Air Force Major Ben Sakrisson, a Pentagon spokesman, said the department did not comment on ongoing litigation. But he said the military worked to "the maximum extent possible" to enable the free exercise of religion by all troops. The U.S. military took steps in early 2014 to give individual troops greater latitude to wear turbans, head scarves, yarmulkes and tattoos if required by their religion. The policy shift was mainly expected to affect Sikhs, Muslims, Jews and members of other groups that wear beards or articles of clothing for religious purposes. It also affected Wiccans and others who obtain tattoos for religious reasons. Story continues Only three Sikhs have been granted permission by the U.S. military to wear turbans, beards and uncut hair over the past six years, court filings said. Singh and two other Sikhs are awaiting decisions on their requests for a waiver. Singh is unusual among Sikhs seeking accommodations because in 2006 he attended West Point, where he gave in to pressure to cut his hair and beard. But after a decade of service, including completing Army Ranger School, he obtained a temporary accommodation last year to enable him to follow the grooming traditions of his religion. (Reporting by David Alexander; Editing by Dan Grebler) Budapest (AFP) - "Son of Saul" -- whose Oscar for best foreign language film Sunday adds to a string of accolades for the Hungarian movie -- pulls the viewer right into the hell of the Holocaust. It tells the story of two days in 1944 in a German death camp where Saul Auslander, a Hungarian Jew forced to burn corpses in a crematorium, believes he has discovered his son amid the bodies, and endeavours to give him a proper burial. While Saul -- played by newcomer Geza Rohrig, a New York-based Hungarian -- toils at the epicentre of the Holocaust inferno, the viewer follows him around the camp, seeing what he sees, much of the action blurred in the background. "It is a pure film, intelligent," French director Claude Lanzmann, who made the acclaimed Holocaust documentary "Shoah" (1985), said last month, calling it "a monument for the Jews of Hungary". The Oscar win caps a remarkable 12 months for rookie director Laszlo Nemes after "Son of Saul" won Hungary's first ever Golden Globe in January as well as the Grand Prix at Cannes last year. "Even in the darkest hours of mankind, there might be a voice within us that allows us to remain human. That's the hope of this film," Nemes told the Oscars audience at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. The film bested Colombia's "Embrace of the Serpent," French movie "Mustang," "Theeb" from Jordan, and Denmark's "A War" for the Oscar. - 'Visually different' - Shot and projected on 35-millimetre film, a rarity in modern cinema, the director told AFP last year that he wanted to do something "visually different" and "innovative" with the Holocaust period. "It has been treated so many times, often with stereotypes, and as much emotion or drama packed in as possible," he said. "But in a sense, the killings went on in silence, the harshness was often subdued." Story continues After the Oscars nomination was announced last month, Zoltan Vagi, a historian who worked on the film, told reporters in Budapest that its sense of immersion is key to the movie's success. "Watching it, many times I felt that I am right there in the film," he said. As well as movies like "The Pawnbroker" (1964) by Sidney Lumet, and Elem Klimov's "Come and See" (1985), Nemes said Lanzmann's "Shoah" was also a key reference source which "fuelled the emotional background" for the movie. Hungary's first Oscar contender in 28 years, "Son of Saul" is the first Hungarian film to win an Oscar since Istvan Szabo's "Mephisto" in 1982. It has also become the most successful Magyar movie ever in America, bringing in over $1 million in box-office revenue so far. At home, where mainstream big-budget movies rarely draw audiences of more than 100,000, over 140,000 have seen it so far, making it the highest grossing Hungarian film since a comedy blockbuster six years ago. - Dissenting voices - The positive reception by most Hungarian critics and audiences has however been tempered by some dissenting voices. A politician from the far-right Jobbik party wrote on Facebook that "Son of Saul" was part of "a booming Holocaust industry" and said films should rather focus on other parts of Hungary's history. Nemes told AFP in the interview last year that he feels Hungarians have not properly dealt with the trauma of the Holocaust, during which some 600,000 Hungarian Jews perished, almost all after Nazi Germany invaded in March 1944. "Every kid should watch it," he said last month. "Not because the cinemas should be full, but that many of them lack empathy." JOHANNESBURG (Reuters) - South Africa's fixed-line operator Telkom said on Monday no decision has been made to cut its workforce by about 40 percent this year as it seeks alternative ways to reduce labour costs as part of a turnaround strategy. Bloomberg reported on Monday that Telkom has identified 6,250 positions that the company wants to eliminate by July from a total workforce of 13,895, according to a plan known as Project High Ground outlined in a document. "The document has changed quite a bit since then. No decision has been made and it is therefore premature to speculate on the possible outcome when analysis is still underway," Telkom spokeswoman Jacqui OSullivan told Reuters. The company, in which the government owns a stake of about 40 percent, said on Friday it plans to cut at least 300 jobs at its head office and further outsource 260 jobs to cut costs. Telkom is nearing the end of the first phase of a turnaround strategy that includes cutting jobs, outsourcing services such as telephone directory printing and selling some properties. (Reporting by Nqobile Dludla, editing by Louise Heavens) Scott Kelly isn't bringing home a souvenir of his year in space. The NASA astronaut, who has been living and working on the International Space Station since March 2015, is set to return home to Earth on Tuesday (March 1) after 340 days circling the planet. Kelly is the first American to embark on such a long mission and, together with Russian cosmonaut Mikhail Kornienko is the first to stay for nearly a year at the orbiting outpost. "I don't look at souvenirs that have been flown in space the same [way] that other people do, only because I've been in space so many times," Kelly explained Thursday (Feb. 25) in a press conference from the space station. "I absolutely understand why other people do and I respect that, but the fact that I've been here four times and well over 500 days, it doesn't have the same meaning to me." [Ape Escape in Space! Watch Astronaut Scott Kelly's Hilarious Video Hijinks] "So, I really do not have anything personal for myself that I have flown. I have stuff other people have given me and I look forward to returning those items when I get back," he said, replying to a question from collectSPACE. His choice to forgo his own memento aside, Kelly is busy packing for his return home. Together with Kornienko and Sergey Volkov (who has been in space since September), Kelly will depart the station and land on the snow-covered steppe of Kazakhstan on board Russia's Soyuz TMA-18M spacecraft. The descent capsule only has enough room for the three crew members and a limited amount of their cargo. "There is not a lot of volume in the Soyuz, but we do have a lot of small items that we return," Kelly said in an earlier media interview this week. "Generally, we can bring about a kilogram and a half [3.3 pounds] of stuff on the Soyuz that are personal items and in some cases are things that people have given us." "For me, most of the stuff I will bring on the Soyuz home is the stuff that flew up with me on the Soyuz," he said. Story continues Although the space station has a much larger volume than Kelly's ride home NASA likens it to a conventional six-bedroom house the astronaut's personal quarters were just as small in comparison, a point Kelly said may need to be rethought before sending crews out on longer missions. "Even though our crew quarters and our privacy is pretty good, I think it is going to have be a lot better," said Kelly. "Probably almost half of the time I've been here, between sleeping and working on the computer, I've spent basically in a box the size of a phone booth. So making that private area as perfect as is possible, I think, will go a long way towards reducing fatigue, reducing stress and helping for a successful mission." Even in the constrained space of his crew quarters, Kelly has amassed more than he can bring home on the Soyuz alone, as supply ships have brought family care packages and logistical items, such as the clothing he has worn. "I have been up here for a really long time and sometimes, when I think about it, I feel like I have lived my whole life up here," Kelly said. For the items too large or in excess of what his spacecraft can carry, there is the SpaceX Dragon capsule, which has the capability to return from the space station to an ocean splashdown for recovery. "We get to bring some items back on SpaceX," Kelly said. "We actually return garbage on the SpaceX [Dragon], too. We have to get rid of the stuff on the station somehow, so we do have a pretty significant capability to bring back stuff that you might not imagine." Watch Scott Kelly's press conference from aboard the space station at collectSPACE.com. Follow collectSPACE.com on Facebook and on Twitter at @collectSPACE. Copyright 2016 collectSPACE.com. All rights reserved. Copyright 2016 SPACE.com, a Purch company. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Abraham Attah was named best male lead at the 31st Film Independent Spirit Awards on Saturday. The Beasts of No Nation actor, who is 15 years old, beat out fellow actors Ben Mendelsohn (Mississippi Grind ), Christopher Abbott (James White), Jason Segel (The End of the Tour ) and Koudous Seihon (Mediterranea) for the honor. The smiling first-time performer thanked everyone from his fellow winner and co-star Idris Elba to the Netflix film's director, Cary Fukunaga, to the costume designers when he took the stage. Read More: Spirit Awards: 'Spotlight' Wins Big in Diverse Show Earlier in the night, Elba brought the young actor from Ghana up with him to share his best supporting male actor award. "I couldn't have done it without you," Elba told Attah. Attah played child soldier Agu in the African war drama, which was Netflix's first original narrative film. During the show's opening monologue, co-hosts Kumail Nanjiani and Kate McKinnon joked about the roundup of this year's films while mentioning Beast of No Nation, Room and Spotlight. "This year's nominees cover a wide variety of difficult subjects ranging from child abuse to even worse child abuse," said Nanjiani. Jacob Tremblay, 9, of Room, was also in attendance as a presenter. Read More: Spirit Awards: Winner Idris Elba Shares Award With Abraham Attah Jessica Chastain presented the award to Attah during the ceremony, which was held at the Santa Monica Pier and aired on IFC. Attah wasn't the only first-time performer to take home an award: Mya Taylor made history as the first transgender winner when the actress won best supporting female for Tangerine. Visit THR.com/awards for complete coverage of awards season. See More: Spirit Awards 2016: Red Carpet Photos var el = document.getElementById('targetParams');if (el !== null && typeof(el) != 'undefined') {var srcParams = $('.advert iframe').attr('src');var addParams = srcParams.split(";");for (i=1;i<=addParams.length - 1;i++) {if (addParams[i] != '=null' && addParams[i] != 'dcopt=ist' && addParams[i] != '!c=iframe' && addParams[i] != 'pos=t' && addParams[i] != 'sz=728x90') {el.value += addParams[i]+";";}}}brightcove.createExperiences();>>>>>>> When Idris Elba was named best supporting male at the 31st Independent Spirit Awards on Saturday, he had his 15-year-old costar accompany him to the stage. "I'm not here on my own," Elba said as he stood alongside Abraham Attah, who is also nominated in the best male lead category. "I want to share this award with Abraham, [he] is an amazing talent and never done it before, so this is with you, I share this. I couldn't have done it without you." Elba, who failed to earn an Oscar nomination for his role as Commandant in the Netflix African war drama, was one of a handful of snubs to spark the #OscarsSoWhite controversy. Last month, he picked up his first SAG Award for his role in the film, which was Netflix's first original narrative. Attah played child soldier Agu. During his speech, the actor also thanked Cary Joji Fukunaga, who is up for best director, and Netflix's Ted Sarandos, joking, "What's your last name, again?" (a reference to when he called him "Ted something" during his SAG Awards speech). During the opening monologue, the night's co-hosts, Silicon Valley's Kumail Nanjiani and Saturday Night Live's Kate McKinnon, joked about the roundup of this year's films while mentioning Beast of No Nation, Room and Spotlight. "This year's nominees cover a wide variety of difficult subjects ranging from child abuse to even worse child abuse," said Nanjiani. Read More: Spirit Awards: Kumail Nanjiani, Kate McKinnon Parody 'Room,' Mock #OscarsSoWhite in Opening Elba beat out Kevin Corrigan, (Results), Paul Dano (Love & Mercy) Richard Jenkins (Bone Tomahawk) and Michael Shannon (99 Homes). The Netflix film will also compete for best feature, and was nominated for best cinematography. The awards, which honor indie titles, were handed out at the Santa Monica Pier and aired on IFC. var el = document.getElementById('targetParams');if (el !== null && typeof(el) != 'undefined') {var srcParams = $('.advert iframe').attr('src');var addParams = srcParams.split(";");for (i=1;i<=addParams.length - 1;i++) {if (addParams[i] != '=null' && addParams[i] != 'dcopt=ist' && addParams[i] != '!c=iframe' && addParams[i] != 'pos=t' && addParams[i] != 'sz=728x90') {el.value += addParams[i]+";";}}}brightcove.createExperiences();>>>>>>> Starbucks is expanding into new territory, the company announced recently. Starbucks will open its first location in Italy "early next year," the New York Times reported Sunday. "We're not coming here to teach Italians to make coffee nothing like that at all," Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz told the Times. "We have to earn the respect." The new Starbucks location, set to open in Milan, will be the Seattle-based company's first foray in Italy, which is notorious for its strong coffee culture. Schultz told the Times that Starbucks will adapt to some of Italy's ingrained traditions surrounding coffee consumption, including the traditional standing bar for espressos and cappuccinos. Starbucks is currently in 70 countries worldwide, and Schultz told the Times that, every week, about 90 million people worldwide set foot in a Starbucks. BAGHDAD (Reuters) - At least 40 people were killed by a suicide bomber at a funeral in Iraq's eastern province of Diyala while a suicide blast at a security checkpoint in Baghdad's western outskirts killed eight members of the security forces, police said on Monday. The larger attack in Muqdadiya, 80 km (50 miles) northeast of Baghdad, killed six local commanders of the Hashid Shaabi umbrella group of Shi'ite militias who were attending the funeral of a commander's relative, security officials and police in Diyala said. A further 58 people were wounded, the sources said. Islamic State, an ultra-hardline Sunni group that controls large parts of northern and western Iraq, claimed responsibility for the blast, according to a statement posted on the SITE monitoring group's Twitter account. The killing of the commanders, four of whom were from the Asaib Ahl al-Haq militia and two from the Badr Organisation, is likely to inflame sectarian tensions in the mixed province. Security officials and witnesses said the situation inside Muqdadiya was tense, with dozens of Shi'ite militia members out on the streets but few security forces. The town's police chief was wounded in clashes with militia fighters who had tried to seize suspected Islamic State militants from a prison in Muqdadiya, police sources said. Militia elements have been accused of attacking Sunni Muslim mosques and residents in Diyala following similar bombings in January, but the groups have denied the allegations and blamed Islamic State. Iraqi officials declared victory over the Sunni insurgents in Diyala a year ago. While it no longer controls significant territory in the eastern province bordering Iran, Islamic State has remained active there. A separate attack in the western Baghdad outskirts of Abu Ghraib followed an offensive by Islamic State militants on army and police positions in the same area on Sunday which left 24 people dead but was eventually repelled by counter-terrorism forces and army attack helicopters. Monday's blasts follow the deadliest bombing inside the capital so far this year, which killed 78 people in a Shi'ite district on Sunday. (Reporting by Ahmed Rasheed and Saif Hameed; Writing by Stephen Kalin; Editing by Richard Balmforth) Washington (AFP) - Rarely are Supreme Court proceedings rocked by such astonishment. On Monday, Justice Clarence Thomas broke a years-long habit of silence by asking a question during a hearing on gun rights -- his first in a decade. An arch-conservative who was ideologically aligned to his friend on the court, the late -- and voluble -- Justice Antonin Scalia, Thomas has become known as the only justice never to open his mouth during oral arguments. But when Federal government lawyer Ilana Eisenstein had wrapped up arguments in a case over a law banning those convicted for domestic violence from owning firearms, Thomas spoke up. "Can you give me another area where a misdemeanor violation suspends a constitutional right?" he asked. Heads turned in disbelief. Sitting next to Scalia's empty seat -- which remains draped in black -- Thomas went on to ask several more rapid-fire questions as if he had suddenly found his tongue, journalists covering the case said. He last asked a question on February 22, 2006 in a case concerning the death penalty. Only once since then, in January 2013, did he break his silence to crack a joke during oral proceedings. Eight justices currently sit on the Supreme Court instead of the usual nine as the White House braces for a showdown with the Senate's Republican majority over the appointment of a replacement for Scalia, who died earlier this month. The court's sole African American, Thomas supports "originalism" -- the idea championed by Scalia that the constitution must be interpreted according to the Founding Fathers' original intent. Appointed by President George Bush in 1991, Thomas is also a strong defender of the Second Amendment, which holds that Americans have the right to keep and bear arms. The 67-year-old judge has put forward various reasons for his silence over the years, once stating that asking too many questions is "not helpful" for deciding cases because lawyers do most of the work in the legal briefs they file with the court. By Gary Robertson RICHMOND, Va. (Reuters) - A former hospital worker is expected to enter guilty pleas this week to the high-profile murder and abduction of two Virginia university students, prosecutors said on Monday. The suspect, Jesse Matthew Jr., 34, of Charlottesville, has been charged in the disappearance and death of University of Virginia student Hannah Graham in 2014 and of Virginia Tech student Morgan Harrington in 2009. He is expected to enter the guilty pleas during a pretrial hearing in Albemarle County Circuit Court on Wednesday, prosecutor Robert Tracci said in an emailed statement. In the interest of protecting the judicial process, our office is unable to provide any additional details as to the specific details of the pleas, Tracci said. Prosecutors had said they would seek the death penalty in the Graham case while Matthew was scheduled to face trial for the Harrington murder next year. The disappearance and deaths of the two college students drew national attention and shocked the area about 100 miles (160 km) southwest of Washington. Matthew, a former college football player, pleaded guilty last year to a 2005 sexual assault in Fairfax County, Virginia. He is already serving three life terms. Graham, a sophomore, was 18 when she went missing in September 2014. Charlottesville police said she and Matthew were seen on a video surveillance camera walking on a downtown mall together. Matthew fled the area but he was arrested on a beach in Galveston County, Texas, and returned to Virginia. Graham's remains were found near Charlottesville. Harrington, 20, disappeared after leaving a Charlottesville concert in October 2009, police have said. (Reporting by Gary Robertson; Editing by Alistair Bell and Alan Crosby) GENEVA (Reuters) - Switzerland will draw up its own plans for limiting the flow of migrants from the European Union if it can not reach agreement with Brussels on the issue before a February 2017 deadline, the foreign minister said on Monday. The two sides are deadlocked on how to implement a binding Swiss referendum of February 2014 in favor of immigration quotas that would violate a bilateral pact guaranteeing freedom of movement for EU citizens. The referendum must go into effect by February next year and, with no agreement with the EU yet, Switzerland is preparing to take unilateral action. "In all likelihood, we will go to parliament with a unilateral clause," Foreign Minister Didier Burkhalter told reporters in Geneva after addressing the U.N. Human Rights Council. Switzerland's cabinet is expected to send a draft law to parliament on Friday but Burkhalter said Switzerland still wanted to find a common solution with the EU. "We remain interested in this discussion, which could for example, let's say, reach a conclusion during the summer." In December, the Swiss government asked its justice department to draft unilateral curbs on immigration by March 2016 in the event there was no breakthrough in the EU talks. The February 2014 referendum, spearheaded by the anti-immigration Swiss People's Party (SVP), has jeopardized a host of other Swiss-EU treaties that govern bilateral economic ties with the country's largest trading partner and stand or fall together. Burkhalter said it was "positive" that a date, June 23, had now been set for Britain's referendum on whether to stay in the EU or leave, before which little progress can be expected in the talks involving Switzerland. "They say nothing will be possible with you (the Swiss) before the British referendum," Roberto Balzaretti, the Swiss ambassador to the European Union, told Reuters in an interview last Friday. The EU's priority was to take "no risk with the British debate", Burkhalter said. The European Commission has said it aims to find a solution on the Swiss issue this year. (Reporting by Stephanie Nebehay; Editing by Richard Balmforth) BEIRUT (Reuters) - The Syrian government accused Saudi Arabia's foreign minister on Monday of trying to undermine a fragile cessation of hostilities agreement by saying there would be a "plan B" if it failed. Jubeir said on Sunday that Syria's government and its ally Russia had violated the truce, and that there would be an alternate plan if it became clear Damascus and its allies were not serious about the ceasefire. He did not give details on the plan. "What Adel al-Jubeir says ... about a plan B regarding the current developments in Syria is merely a delusion in the mind of the Saudi regime," a Syrian foreign ministry official was quoted as saying in a statement on state media. "Jubeir's statements are ... an attempt to thwart the cessation of combat operations," the statement added. Saudi Arabia supports insurgents fighting against Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, and backs the main Syrian opposition body. The fragile cessation, drawn up by the United States and Russia, has led to a dramatic reduction of violence in Syria, though rebels are accusing the government of numerous violations including air strikes. A Syrian military source has said the army is not violating the agreement. (Reporting by Kinda Makieh; writing by John Davison and Tom Perry; Editing by Andrew Heavens) By Mariam Karouny and Tom Miles BEIRUT/ GENEVA (Reuters) - The Syrian opposition warned on Sunday that attacks by the army, backed by Russian warplanes, threatened a U.S.-Russian deal for a cessation of hostilities with collapse and endangered future peace talks. The agreement, which is in its second day and has drastically curbed violence but not stopped it entirely, is the first of its kind to be attempted in four years. In a letter to U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, the opposition said violations would undermine international efforts to guarantee the continuation of the truce and lead to the collapse of the UN-adopted political process. [L8N1670O5] The Riyadh-based opposition body said Russian war planes on Sunday staged 26 bombing raids on areas where rebel groups abiding by the truce were operating and accused Moscow of deploying cluster bombs on residential areas it alleged caused many civilian casualties. A Syrian military source on Saturday denied the army was violating the truce agreement. Russia's defence ministry declined to comment. Under the accord accepted by President Bashar al-Assad's government and many of his foes, fighting should cease so that aid can reach civilians and talks can open to end a war that has killed more than 250,000 people and made 11 million homeless. The head of the Russian coordination centre in Syria, Sergei Kuralenko, said the plan was holding "in general" but said there had been nine violations of the truce in the past 24 hours. Insurgents and the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, which monitors the conflict, said war planes struck at least six towns and villages in west and north Aleppo and a village in the central Hama province. Warplanes believed to be Russian pounded the town of Teir Maalah, just north of the city of Homs, in the second round of bombing within a few hours of the strategic town that the army has tried to capture in the past to enter rebel held northern countryside of Homs province, insurgents said. [L8N1670NV] Rebels said the attacks across Syria were more intense than Saturday but still not as bad as those before the cessation of hostilities took effect. "We are awaiting the response of states to these violations, the situation is in the balance now and self restraint will not last long," colonel Fares al Bayoush told Reuters. The Saudi-backed opposition group had earlier accused Russia of carrying out the strikes and said it would complain to the United Nations and countries backing the peace process but said it remained committed to the truce. "The decision is to remain quiet, not to do anything, and I believe they will stick to the truce," said Syria's opposition spokesman Salim al-Muslat. "Yesterday was the first day people can really go out and walk in the streets." Saudi Foreign Minister Adel al-Jubeir also accused Russia and the Syrian government air force of violating the truce and said Riyadh was discussing the issue with international powers. Speaking during a joint news conference with visiting Danish Foreign Minister Kristian Jensen in Riyadh, he said there would be a "plan B" if it became clear that the Syrian government and its allies were not serious about the truce. He gave no details. The deal, which is less binding than a formal ceasefire and was not directly signed by the Syrian warring sides, does not cover action against militants from Islamic State or the Nusra Front, an al Qaeda affiliate which called for an escalation of attacks on Friday. Moscow and Damascus say they will continue to fight them. Other rebels say they fear this stance may be used to justify attacks against them too. Muslat, who is spokesman for the opposition's High Negotiating Committee (HNC), said it was waiting for answers about how the cessation of hostilities in Syria was being monitored, particularly since there was no map with a common understanding of the location of various fighting groups. "This really worries us because we don't know how to deal with any violations and what are the areas that should not be targeted," he said. CONFUSION On Saturday, Russia said it would suspend all flights over Syria for one day to ensure no targets covered by the truce were hit by mistake. But insurgents said on Sunday several people were wounded when Russian war planes struck several villages and towns in Aleppo province and Idlib province. The Observatory's head Rami Abdulrahman said some of the towns which were attacked, including Daret Azza, were controlled by Nusra Front and other Islamist groups. In the city of Jisr al Shuquour, three aerial raids caused civilian casualties. Other attacks hit the villages and towns of Qabtan al-Jabal, Andan, Hreitan, Kfar Hamra and Ma'aret al-Arteek, the Observatory said, all in the west of the province where insurgents from the Free Syrian Army have operated. It was not clear if these towns were included in the truce, Abdulrahman said. Syria's state news agency accused "terrorist groups" of shelling rural areas of the coastal Latakia province, causing casualties. It said that the shelling came from hills close to the Turkish border "where terrorists mostly from Nusra Front deploy". A Syrian rebel group denied the state media reports. Fadi Ahmad, spokesman for the First Coastal Division, an FSA group operating in the rural Latakia area, said rebel groups were committed to the truce. He said helicopters had dropped six barrel bombs and fired dozens of rockets in the area on Sunday, and the Nusra Front had no presence in the area targeted by government forces. Abdulrahman said a number of civilians were also killed in the air strikes in Aleppo province and other areas. He did not have a figure. Videos sent by a rebel commander to Reuters shows a strike in another town, Harbnafseh, at 6.30am (0430 GMT)and another at 07:00am (0500 GMT) according to the voice in the video. The footage shows plumes of smoke rising into the sky. Russia's coordination centre in Syria received from the United States a list of 69 armed opposition groups which agree with the terms of the truce, Interfax news agency reported. Russia had itself received declarations of agreement from 17 armed groups from Syria's "moderate opposition", the centre said in a statement. (Reporting by Mariam Karouny, Tom Perry in Beirut Tom Miles in Geneva, Alexander Winning in Moscow, Suleiman al-Khalidi in Amman; Writing by Mariam Karouny; editing by Richard Balmforth) BEIRUT (Reuters) - Syrian government forces regained control of a key road to the northern city of Aleppo after making advances against Islamic State fighters on Monday, a monitoring group and state television reported. Battles continued between government forces and the jihadist group in the area in the southeast of Aleppo province, the Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. Government forces had been relying on the route to reach Aleppo because insurgents control the main highway to the city further west. Islamic State seized the town of Khanaser, which lies on the route 50 km (30 miles) southeast of Aleppo city, last week but government forces regained it two days later. State TV said on Monday further advances allowed government forces to regain control of the road and they were now clearing mines. The government advances in Aleppo province, helped by Russian air strikes and allied fighters from Iran and Lebanese Hezbollah, come on the third day of a country-wide cessation of hostilities that excludes Islamic State and al Qaeda affiliate Nusra Front. (Reporting by John Davison; Editing by Andrew Heavens) By Benjamin Kang Lim and J.R. Wu BEIJING/TAIPEI (Reuters) - Taiwan President-elect Tsai Ing-wen's diplomatic honeymoon with China could be shortlived if she allows the Dalai Lama to visit the self-ruled democratic island that Beijing claims as its own, two senior political sources said. China regards Tibet's exiled spiritual leader as a separatist, and Ma Ying-jeou, the outgoing president who favors closer economic ties with the mainland, refused the Dalai Lama entry several times since his last visit to Taiwan in 2009. On that occasion Ma did allow him in, although he did not meet the 80-year-old. With invitations pending from Buddhist groups that are likely to be renewed after Tsai and her pro-independence Democratic Progressive Party easily won January elections, the incoming leader faces a dilemma, said a Taiwanese source close to the DPP and another with direct knowledge of the matter. "The Dalai Lama could visit as early as around national day," said the source close to the DPP, requesting anonymity because of the sensitivity of the matter. The Republic of China, Taiwan's official name, marks its national day on Oct. 10. Since sweeping to victory at the polls, Tsai has vowed to seek to maintain the "status quo of peace and stability" with China, Taiwan's biggest trading partner, and Chinese state-run media have noted her pledges. Since the election, Beijing has also warned against any moves towards formal independence and said it would defend its sovereignty. Tsai, who takes office on May 20, must decide whether to let the Dalai Lama in and risk riling China at a time when tensions in the region have already been raised over rival claims to the vital waterways of the South China Sea. The Dalai Lama, who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1989, fled into exile in India in 1959 after an abortive uprising against Communist rule. China has accused him of being a separatist, but the monk says he only wants genuine autonomy for his Himalayan homeland. Tsai could try and seek a compromise, the sources said, by convincing Beijing to keep dialogue open, rather than stonewalling her, in exchange for allowing the Dalai Lama into Taiwan but not meeting him one-on-one. The DPP said in a statement it was not aware of an invitation for the Dalai Lama to visit Taiwan. The Dalai Lama's office in India, where he lives in exile, said: "His Holiness the Dalai Lama has no plans to visit Taiwan at the present time". China's Taiwan Affairs Office did not respond to a request for comment. The Dalai Lama congratulated Tsai on her "remarkable" victory, according to www.dalailama.com. "It is indeed encouraging to see how firmly rooted democracy has become in Taiwan," the Dalai Lama wrote. "It is a model and source of inspiration to those who aspire (to) freedom and accountable leadership." Beijing and Taipei have been diplomatic and military rivals since their split in 1949 after the Nationalists lost the Chinese civil war and fled to Taiwan. But trade, investment and tourism have blossomed during outgoing Ma's eight-year rule. (Additional reporting by J.R. Wu in TAIPEI, Ben Blanchard in BEIJING and Abhishek Madhukar in DHARAMSALA, India; Editing by Mike Collett-White) Hollywood (United States) (AFP) - Hollywood's top stars oozed glamour on Sunday as they hit the Oscars red carpet under sunny skies in plenty of bling -- and with oodles of attitude. Here are a few key looks and trends from the A-list fashion parade at the Dolby Theatre: - Belle of the ball - Sweden's Alicia Vikander has taken both the acting and fashion worlds by storm in the past year. On Sunday, she looked like the princess of Hollywood ready for her Oscars close-up. And she took home a golden statuette. A best supporting actress winner for her role in "The Danish Girl," Vikander floated onto the red carpet in a strapless pale yellow Louis Vuitton gown with silver accents and an asymmetrical hemline. Her brown tresses were in a half up-do, most of it hanging loose and curly down her back. On Twitter, some compared her look to that of Belle in the Disney classic "Beauty and the Beast." Not a bad call. - Shades of blue - Blue skies and warm temperatures greeted Tinseltown's elite. And they responded by embracing blue as the color of the moment. Best actress winner Brie Larson, who earned the Oscar for her searing performance as a kidnap victim in "Room," wowed in a bright blue Gucci gown with a floating skirt full of pleats and a silvery belt. "This has been a dream of mine since I was seven years old," she told E! television, referring to just being an Oscars nominee. Sofia Vergara, the star of television's "Modern Family" and a presenter on Sunday, stunned in a sweetheart-neckline navy blue Marchesa gown that showcased her oft-talked-about curves. Best actress nominee Cate Blanchett ("Carol") flashed some cleavage in her romantic, blue-green Armani gown with flower petal accents. Patricia Arquette and Naomi Watts also graced the carpet in shades of blue. - White hot - White is not the easiest color to wear for most women. But Hollywood's A-listers are fearless. Story continues Rooney Mara, competing against Vikander in the best supporting actress category for her role opposite Blanchett, looked edgy in a long-sleeved white Givenchy lace gown with a diamond midriff cut-out. Pop diva Lady Gaga -- nominated for an Oscar for her song "Til It Happens to You," from the campus rape documentary "The Hunting Ground" -- stunned Oscars fashionistas with her white gown-pantsuit combo by Brandon Maxwell. - Plenty of jewels - The dresses are often the focus on the red carpet, but the jewelry is also worth a look. Eye-catching earrings are de rigueur. Saoirse Ronan, a best actress nominee for "Brooklyn," paired her emerald green slinky sequined Calvin Klein gown with -- mismatched earrings, one green and one white! Britain's Daisy Ridley, the heroine of "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," wowed the crowd in a silvery Chanel gown -- suitably sparkly for the star of the latest chapter in the intergalactic space saga -- and an eye-catching chunky ring-bracelet combo. And Charlize Theron, the statuesque star of "Mad Max: Fury Road," looked stunning in a red Dior gown with a plunging neckline -- and a long head-turning Harry Winston diamond necklace. - Don't forget the gents! - Sylvester Stallone, whose loss to Mark Rylance in the best supporting actor category was one of the surprises of the night, looked slick in a blue dinner jacket with black and blue lapels, and a black shirt and bowtie. "It's been a most memorable year," the "Creed" star, who reprised his iconic role of boxer Rocky Balboa, wrote on Instagram. Eddie Redmayne, who won an Oscar last year for his portrayal of Stephen Hawking in "The Theory of Everything" and was a nominee again this year for "The Danish Girl," looked sharp in an Alexander McQueen tux with a velvet jacket. But he said he misjudged the warm weather. "I thought it would rain this year so I wore velvet, and I'm sweating like a fiend," he told ABC on the red carpet. DAR ES SALAAM (Reuters) - Tanzania has awarded a coal mining license to a London-listed Edenville Energy Plc, which plans to invest $176 million in a mine and a coal-fired power plant, the country's energy and minerals ministry said on Monday. The British-headquartered coal and uranium explorer will build an open cast coal mine at the Mkomolo area in the southwestern Tanzanian town of Rukwa. "After commencing coal mining activities in June, the company plans to build a 300-megawatt power plant between 20 and 22 months after getting an environmental impact assessment certificate," the ministry said in a statement. Edenville estimates that the area has up to 173 million tonnes of coal reserves, according to Tanzania's energy and minerals ministry. Tanzania has coal reserves of up to 5 billion tonnes, up from a previously stated figure of about 1.5 billion tonnes, according to government estimates. Developing coal production is part of the resource-rich east African country's broader energy strategy, which includes exploiting recent big gas finds and reducing reliance on hydro-power. China's Sichuan Hongda signed a $3 billion deal with Tanzania in 2011 to mine coal and iron ore. Tancoal Energy, a joint venture between Australian-listed Intra Energy Corporation and Tanzania's government, runs the Ngaka coal project, while Tanzania's other mine at Kiwira is run by the state. (Reporting by Fumbuka Ng'wanakilala; editing by Drazen Jorgic and Louise Heavens) Idomeni (Greece) (AFP) - Hundreds of refugees tried to break through a border fence into Macedonia from Greece, where more than 7,000 people are stranded, as anger mounts over barriers to entry imposed on migrants flooding into Europe. In a sign of deepening divisions within Europe, German Chancellor Angela Merkel lashed out at Austria and Balkan states for introducing tight limits on migrant entries, leaving Greece with a growing bottleneck as refugee boats continue to arrive from Turkey. And Macedonian President Gjorge Ivanov warned that once Austria reaches its cap of a maximum 37,500 migrants transiting through this year, the refugee route through the Balkans will have to close. At Idomeni on the frontier, Macedonian police fired tear gas as some 300 migrants forced their way through a Greek police cordon and raced towards a railway track between the two countries. "Open the borders!" they shouted as a group of men used a metal signpost to bring down a section of barbed wire fencing, prompting police to fire volleys of tear gas and block them from crossing. At least 30 people, many of them children, requested first aid in the stampede that ensued, the charity Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said. Authorities said a Macedonian policeman had also been hurt and had to be hospitalised. The protest occurred several hours after Macedonia allowed just 300 Syrians and Iraqis to cross. With Austria and Balkan states capping the numbers of migrants entering their soil, there has been a swift build-up along the Greece-Macedonia border with Athens warning that the number of people "trapped" could reach up to 70,000 in March. The UN's rights chief criticised a "rising roar of xenophobia" towards migrants. "To keep building higher walls against the flight of these desperate people is an act of cruelty and a delusion," Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein said. Amnesty International criticised the situation at Idomeni, branding it "the result of a shameful spate of discriminatory border closures". Story continues As the bottleneck showed little sign of easing, Merkel slammed the restrictions and pointed the finger at Austria, whose clampdown on February 19 triggered a domino effect in the Balkans. Greece must not be allowed to "plunge into chaos", she said. - 'Not my Europe' - The spate of border closures was sparked by Austria's announcement it would accept no more than 80 asylum claims per day and that a maximum of 3,200 migrants would be allowed to transit daily. EU members Slovenia and Croatia, along with Serbia and Macedonia, swiftly responded to the clampdown further up the migrant route by imposing a limit of 580 migrants entering per day. "Because Austria decided on a limit of 80 per day, and not one more, we have reached today's situation," Merkel told public broadcaster ARD on Sunday. "When one insists on his border, the other suffers. That's not my Europe." Macedonia's President Ivanov told German news website Spiegel Online that once Austria's limit of 37,500 entries this year is reached, the Balkan route will have to close. "When Austria reaches its limit, it will happen," he said. Asked when that might occur, he replied "perhaps right at this moment", although the Austrian interior ministry said only around 12,000 people had passed through its territory so far this year. The European Commission said it would this week propose using funds usually earmarked for catastrophes outside the bloc to provide aid to EU countries affected by the migrant crisis. US Secretary of State John Kerry warned the exodus of Middle Eastern refugees was a "global challenge" after talks with his German counterpart in Washington Monday. "It is not a regional challenge," he said. "It is a global challenge and it is not somebody else's problem. It is a test for all of us." On the ground, thousands of migrants continued to mass on Greece's northern border with Macedonia, where the Idomeni camp is designed to accommodate up to 1,500 people but is sheltering more than 7,000. - 'Absurd' criticism - Austria hit back quickly at criticism of its crackdown, describing it as "absurd". "Apparently for some, the European solution (to the crisis) is for all (migrants) to mass in Austria," Interior Minister Johanna Mikl-Leitner told the Austria Press Agency. In Athens, ministers held an emergency meeting on how to handle the crisis, with facilities in the capital nearing breaking point and hundreds of people continuing to arrive at the port of Piraeus. In France meanwhile, clashes broke out as authorities began bulldozing half of the "Jungle" migrant camp in the port city of Calais where thousands of migrants hope to sneak aboard lorries and ferries to Britain. Belgium has turned back 619 migrants at the French border since reinstating border checks, a police spokesman told AFP. AUSTIN, Texas (Reuters) - A Texas judge injured in a November shooting attack in front of her Austin home returned to the bench on Monday to a standing ovation from her co-workers and supporters, saying she felt as if she had been reborn. District Judge Julie Kocurek, 51, wearing a cast on her left hand, said the support she has received "outweighs the evil moments," the Austin American-Statesman and local media reported from the courtroom. Kocurek said she lost the index finger on her left hand in the incident when she was injured by shattered glass and flying debris caused by bullet strikes. She will initially be working half days as she recovers. "We celebrated Julie's return this morning," Travis County District Attorney Rosemary Lehmberg said in an interview. "It was really, really great to see her back." Police have identified a person of interest for the shooting, saying the suspect is facing separate murder charges in Houston. No motive has been disclosed for the shooting. Kocurek, a former prosecutor, was appointed to her position in 1999 by then-Governor George W. Bush. Among her early cases was the high-profile capital murder trial of Celeste Beard Johnson, who is serving a life sentence for killing her millionaire husband, Steven Beard, in 1999. (Reporting by Jon Herskovitz; Editing by Cynthia Osterman) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Clarence Thomas ended a decade of silence from the bench during Supreme Court arguments on Monday when the conservative justice unexpectedly posed questions during a gun rights case from Maine. His comments, which surprised courtroom observers and then held them rapt, focused on Thomas' concern that people convicted of domestic-violence misdemeanors could permanently lose the right to own a firearm. Thomas has been a consistent vote on the court for robust gun rights under the U.S. Constitution's Second Amendment. Thomas, 67, had not asked a question during oral arguments since Feb. 22, 2006, when he made queries during a South Carolina death penalty case. His words came just over two weeks after the death of fellow conservative Antonin Scalia, who had been one of the most outspoken justices during arguments as well as a strong advocate for gun rights. Thomas' questions were directed at Ilana Eisenstein, an assistant U.S. solicitor general who was defending a federal firearms statute. At issue was when a prior state misdemeanor domestic assault conviction based on "recklessness" may lead to a person being barred from ever owning a gun again under federal law. His first words were, "Ms. Eisenstein, one question." "Can you give me another area where a misdemeanor violation suspends a constitutional right?" Thomas asked. Eisenstein stressed that Congress was concerned about future harm by individuals convicted "of battering their family members." She said lawmakers particularly wanted to prevent gun violence. Thomas asked whether either of the defendants involved in Monday's cases had used a weapon against a family member. Eisenstein said no. "So ... the suspension is not directly related to the use of the weapon," Thomas said. "It's just a family member's involved in a misdemeanor violation; therefore a constitutional right is suspended." Thomas, the court's only black justice, in the past has attributed his reluctance to ask questions to a few factors, some personal. He told a group of students in 2000 that his reluctance to speak during arguments arose from a shyness tracing to his birth in Pin Point, Georgia, and his childhood with his grandparents in nearby Savannah: I had grown up speaking a kind of dialect. In part to avoid the ridicule of classmates, Thomas said, "I just started developing the habit of listening. ... I didn't ask questions in college or law school. I could learn better just listening." Thomas has also said he thinks his colleagues interrupt the lawyers too much and that the lawyers should be able to explain their positions. (Reporting by Joan Biskupic and Lawrence Hurley; Editing by Will Dunham) Tehran (AFP) - Iranian hardliners suffered another election setback Monday with two leading conservatives ejected from the top clerical body, handing another victory to moderate President Hassan Rouhani, whose reformist allies made gains. The public's rejection of ayatollahs Mohammad Yazdi and Mohammad Taghi Mesbah-Yazdi when picking the powerful Assembly of Experts came as final results were also awaited for parliamentary polls after voting on Friday. The reformist camp which allied with Rouhani in the elections staged a comeback, especially in the capital where preliminary results Sunday showed them taking all 30 seats at the expense of conservatives. Campaigning under its "List of Hope", a slate of reformist candidates supporting the president and his government after its recent nuclear deal with world powers secured strong backing and will regain significant power in parliament. Reformists stayed away from parliamentary elections four years ago, in protest at hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad's disputed re-election in 2009, which its defeated candidates said was rigged. The unanimous sweep in Tehran propelled the reformists forward but results from other cities were split, with conservatives losing seats but retaining high numbers in provinces, an outcome that is likely to mean no group winning a majority. According to partial results from 274 out of parliament's 290 seats, the main conservative list will have 100 MPs, reformists and moderates from the List of Hope 94, and Independents 11. There were also four conservative-leaning independent MPs elected and five minorities of no political affiliation. However, 60 constituencies had no clear winner, meaning a second round run-off will be needed in a field that has more conservatives than reformists and moderates. - 'A reaction against radicals' - Several MPs who were vehement critics of Rouhani's nuclear deal and diplomacy with the West lost their seats, with voters flocking instead to the List of Hope. Story continues The results so far represent "a reaction against radicals" from the electorate, Amir Mohebbian, an analyst with close links to politicians of all political hues in the Islamic republic, told AFP. "But mistakes by the conservatives who supported radicals during the campaign were also to blame" for their losses, he said. Although the fight for parliament is centre stage, the election for the Assembly of Experts is being closely watched because its members could pick the Islamic republic's next supreme leader should the incumbent, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, die during its eight-year term. Khamenei, who is 76, stressed the importance himself ahead of the elections, urging the electorate to participate in both polls. Turnout was around 60 percent, interior ministry officials said on Friday, but no official final figure has been issued. State television reported that Yazdi, the current chair of the assembly, and Mesbah-Yazdi, a figure openly hostile to reformists and close to former hardline president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, had failed to be re-elected. On Sunday they had been placed 17th and 19th in the assembly ballot for Tehran, but only 16 places were up for grabs in the capital. - Results await approval - Yazdi, Mesbah-Yazdi and a third hardliner in the assembly, Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, were targeted by Rouhani supporters in the election campaign, with the public being urged not to back them. However Jannati, chair of another influential body in Iran, the Guardian Council, which must approve all election results and which barred thousands of candidates from contesting the polls, scraped re-election, taking 16th place, the last seat available in Tehran. Rouhani was re-elected to the assembly in third place in Tehran, with his ally and former two-term president Ayatollah Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani in first position. The final results quoted by state television only gave names of clerics successfully elected and did not say where Yazdi and Mesbah-Yazdi finished out of 28 contenders. Although Rouhani secured the nuclear agreement last July, ending a 13-year standoff over Iran's atomic ambitions, and sanctions were lifted last month he has so far been unable to deliver significant social, cultural or political change at home. Support from reformists in the next parliament should make that easier, but the resurgent group is also likely to pressure the president for change and concrete progress on long-avoided difficult issues such as demands to free political prisoners. Fairfax (United States) (AFP) - White House hopefuls Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton are poised to pass a point of no return on Super Tuesday, if as expected they outrun their rivals on the biggest voting day of the primary season. With just hours to go before polls open, the Republican and Democratic frontrunners fended off rivals and appealed to supporters in a dozen states, a day before they head to polls. If they win big as the presidential nomination race broadens following a string of statewide votes, it could spell doom for their challengers. Clinton was riding high after thrashing rival Bernie Sanders in South Carolina over the weekend, securing an astronomical 86 percent of the African-American vote. But she was leaving nothing to chance, traveling to multiple states to urge a strong turnout. "I need your help to go and vote tomorrow, to bring people to vote with you," she implored a crowd in Springfield, Massachusetts on Monday. She also took aim at the increasingly hostile campaign rhetoric on the Republican side led by the brash real estate mogul Trump. - Scapegoating, fingerpointing, blaming - "I really regret the language being used by Republicans. Scapegoating people, fingerpointing, blaming. That is not how we should behave toward one another," she told several hundred people at a university in Fairfax, Virginia. "We're going to demonstrate starting tomorrow on Super Tuesday, there's a different path that Americans ought to take." Trump, whose incendiary campaign has turned US politics on its head, has a political target on his back, with mainstream favorite Marco Rubio intensifying his personal attacks and stressing Trump would have serious weaknesses in a general election. The Florida senator warned supporters in Tennessee that US media and critics will jump on Trump "like the hounds of hell" if he wins the nomination. "They'll shred him to pieces and then get Hillary Clinton elected," Rubio said, insisting that he is better positioned to defeat Clinton. Story continues But Trump is clearly in the driver's seat. He is leading in polling in at least eight of the 11 Super Tuesday states. And a new CNN/ORC poll shows the billionaire expanding his lead nationally, earning a stunning 49 percent support compared to second place Rubio at 16 percent. Fellow first-term Senator Ted Cruz of Texas is third, at 15 percent, followed by retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson at 10 percent and Ohio Governor John Kasich at six percent. Trump hit back hard against Rubio, calling him "Little Marco," mocking him for sweating on the campaign trail and warning Rubio could not stand up to strong men like Russian President Vladimir Putin. - Republican gut check - Super Tuesday will unquestionably be a gut check for the Republican Party. It will also test whether Rubio's newfound aggressiveness toward Trump -- the 44-year-old senator has attacked his rival's business dealings, temperament, age, policy platforms and hairstyle in recent days -- will have an impact on voters. Trump is "the Bernie Madoff of American politics," Rubio told Fox News, referencing the former investment advisor jailed for life for committing the largest financial fraud in US history. Trump's inflammatory rhetoric during the campaign, accusing Mexico of sending "rapists" and criminals across the border and urging a ban on Muslims entering the country, would have been the undoing of a normal candidate. But all signs show 2016 is far from normal, with a fiercely angry electorate keen to back an outsider who scornfully attacks the establishment. Trump has shrugged off the criticism, including Clinton's. "Hillary says she doesn't like my tone," Trump told a crowd of some 3,000 in southwester Virginia. "The world is a mean and evil place, we need a strong tone." In the latest controversy, Trump came under withering criticism from Republican and Democratic candidates alike for not immediately disavowing the support of David Duke, a white supremacist who once led the Ku Klux Klan. Rubio said Trump's failure to immediately repudiate Duke, who has expressed support for Trump, makes him "unelectable." The party's flagbearer in 2012, Mitt Romney, joined the chorus of outrage, tweeting that Trump's "coddling of repugnant bigotry is not in the character of America." Trump sought to put the issue behind him, blaming it on a "very bad ear piece" that prevented him from accurately hearing the question about Duke, and repeating his prior disavowal of the white supremacist. If Trump sweeps the South, where many of the Super Tuesday races are taking place, it could be lights out for his Republican challengers. Like Rubio, rival Cruz warned that a vote for Trump was a vote for Clinton in November. "If Donald Trump is the nominee, Hillary in all likelihood wins," arch-conservative Cruz told a rally in his home state of Texas. The Lone Star State is the largest prize Tuesday, and Cruz is banking on winning there. But he trails in every other Super Tuesday state, except for Arkansas. Nearly 600 Republican delegates are up for grabs Tuesday, close to half of the 1,237 needed to secure the nomination. Some 865 Democratic delegates are at stake, about 36 percent of those needed to win. By Doina Chiacu WASHINGTON - A Donald Trump rally in Virginia was repeatedly disrupted on Monday by protesters, including some from the Black Lives Matter movement, in a stark display of the divisions the Republican front-runner's presidential campaign has long been accused of sowing. A Time magazine photographer trying to document the exit of dozens of black protesters from the rally in southwestern Radford, Virginia, was grabbed by the neck and shoved to the ground by a U.S. Secret Service agent. Hecklers disrupted the rally on a day when the New York billionaire fended off criticism that he had not clearly condemned white supremacist support during an interview on CNN on Sunday. Trump taunted the protesters, shouting "Are you from Mexico?" at one of them. Supporters in the audience confronted the hecklers in angry, face-to-face exchanges. As black protesters were escorted from the rally, the crowd around them began to chant, "All lives matter." Trump waited for the scene to quiet down before saying, "Folks, you're going to hear it once: All lives matter." The crowd roared with applause. Black Lives Matter is a civil rights movement that sprung from police shootings of black Americans in recent years. The Trump rally took place on the eve of Super Tuesday, the biggest voting day in the race to pick the 2016 presidential nominees for the November election. A number of Southern states including Virginia are holding contests on Tuesday and opinion polls show Trump is likely to consolidate his status as favorite to win the Republican nomination. It was unclear whether Trump would be damaged by support from white supremacists. He has risen in opinion polls and won three of four early nominating contests while proposing a temporary ban on Muslims entering the country, calling Mexican immigrants criminals and insulting women. 'GET THEM OUT' On Monday, the protesters disrupted Trump's remarks several times for long stretches, prompting him to shout to security guards several times, "Get them out please, get them out." Trump appeared to relish the discord, saying after the turmoil in the crowd that his rallies were more exciting than those of the other candidates: "But it is fun, and exciting." At a rally last week in Nevada, Trump also jumped into the fray with a protester when he said, "I'd like to punch him in the face." Time photographer Chris Morris was on the fringe of an enclosed media section when he was seized by an agent from the Secret Service, which has the job of protecting the U.S. president and some White House candidates. "I stepped 18 inches out of the (press) pen and then he grabbed me by the neck and started choking me and then he slammed me to the ground," Morris told CNN at the scene. The Trump campaign said it was not aware of the details of the incident and directed inquires to local law enforcement. Secret Service spokesman Robert Hoback said the agency was aware of the incident involving one of its employees but it still working to "determine the exact circumstances that led up to this incident." Earlier on Monday, Trump's rivals slammed him for equivocating on white supremacist support when he was asked repeatedly on CNN if he would condemn the Klan and disavow support from white supremacists, including David Duke, a former Klan grand wizard from Louisiana. Trump said that he had been hampered by a faulty earpiece during the CNN interview. On the Democratic side, front-runner Hillary Clinton alluded to the country's divisions on Monday after a landslide victory on Saturday in South Carolina's primary shifted her attention from party rival Bernie Sanders to the candidate she may end up facing in November. "I dont think America ever stopped being great," she told supporters in Massachusetts, adding a twist to Trump's "Make America Great Again" slogan. "What we need to do now is make America whole." (Additional reporting by Amanda Becker, Susan Heavey, Megan Cassella; Writing by Doina Chiacu; Editing by Jonathan Oatis and Frances Kerry) By Gina Cherelus and Melissa Fares NEW YORK (Reuters) - The use of the #NeverTrump hashtag grew on Twitter on Monday as detractors of Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump fretted over his momentum on the eve of Super Tuesday election contests. On Twitter, the top influencer, or person who received the most engagement on their #NeverTrump tweets, was Trump rival Marco Rubio, according to online research firm Hashtagify.me. The senator from Florida and real estate billionaire Trump are engaged in an increasingly personal battle of insults on social media before voters in more than a dozen states select their party's nominee to run for the White House in November. Rubio began using the tag on Friday, tweeting: "Donald Trump is a con artist - and he cannot be our nominee. #NeverTrump." The tweet received more than 8,000 "likes" and 5,100 retweets. He repeated the tag in three more tweets over the weekend, with each one getting several thousand likes or retweets. A spokeswoman for the Trump campaign did not immediately return calls for comment. Another major influencer on the tag was conservative commentator Glenn Beck (@glennbeck), even though he has used it just once, on Sunday. Beck supports U.S. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas in the campaign. Still, Beck's post - "Praying for this great country. Praying for a true constitutionalist! God bless (an emblem for the American flag). #NeverTrump #CruzCrew" - proved influential, getting retweeted nearly 1,000 times and liked nearly 2,000 times. Traffic on the hashtag was dominated by users who identify as conservative or Republican, most expressing vexation with the front-runner. Many tweets focused on Trump's CNN interview on Sunday, when he declined to repudiate an endorsement from former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke. Trump later said he did not hear the question properly because of a defective ear piece. Whitney Westerfield (@KyWhitney), a Republican state senator from Kentucky, tweeted on Monday, "Wow. Trump blaming his failure to repudiate the hatred & extremism of the KKK on a #BadEarpiece. #NeverTrump." Story continues "No, the white supremacist/David Duke/KKK question isn't hard. Reject their support & denounce their hate. Again & again & again. #nevertrump," said Stephen Hayes (@stephenhayes), a writer for the Weekly Standard, a weekly conservative magazine. Trump supporters have countered with their own hashtag: #AlwaysTrump. "We must continue to fight on social media, the Peoples Revolution, the strongest tool right now! #TRUMP2016 #AlwaysTrump," wrote Trump supporter Linda Alexander (@noopdoggy). Still, the #NeverTrump hashtag was winning the trending battle, seeing roughly twice the traffic as #AlwaysTrump on Monday, according to social media analytics firm Zoomph. (Reporting by Gina Cherelus; Editing by Dan Burns and Grant McCool) Donald Trumps presidential campaign has put extraordinary strain on the Republican Party, and the cracks, long apparent to anyone paying attention, are starting to widen. Early Monday morning, freshman Nebraska Sen. Ben Sasse posted a lengthy open letter to Trump voters on his Facebook page explaining that even if Republican voters nominate Trump for the presidency, he will refuse to vote for him. Sasse posted his letter several hours after Trump declined multiple times to disavow the support of former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke and other white supremacist groups, and vowed that as president he would crack down on the press for reporting he disagrees with. Related: In the Trump v. GOP Divorce Case, Who Gets to Keep the House? If Donald Trump becomes the Republican nominee, my expectation is that I will look for some third candidate a conservative option, a Constitutionalist, he wrote. I do not claim to speak for a movement, but I suspect I am far from alone. He continued, Conservatives understand that all men are created equal and made in the image of God, but also that government must be limited so that fallen men do not wield too much power. A presidential candidate who boasts about what hell do during his reign and refuses to condemn the KKK cannot lead a conservative movement in America. Last week, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell reportedly told Republican Senators that if Trump is the nominee, they should feel free to run on a platform opposing him in the general election in order to preserve Republican control of the Senate. Influential voices in conservative circles are attacking Trump more and more loudly. Commentators like Erick Erickson and Ben Howe have said that they refuse to support him in the general election. Weeks ago, the National Review published an entire issue dedicated to taking down the billionaire former reality television star. Related: Trump and Christie Steal Rubios Thunder But nobody has been more vocal about Trumps threat to the GOP than Republican consultant Rick Wilson, whose angry, impassioned article, With God as My Witness, I will Never Vote for Donald Trump went viral last week. Story continues Wilson has been speaking hard truths to the GOP since The Donald entered the race last June, and in an interview Monday, he dished out more: The Republican Party, he said, has to recognize that it may have lost hardcore Trump voters for good. Trump voters are informed by fury and alienation, he said, a lot of which has been manufactured by a hard right conservative talk radio media establishment that, according to Wilson, has monetized the creation of outrage. Theyve been sold on the stab in the back the idea that the evil elites are betraying you over and over again, he said. Related: With A Stream of Misspelled Tweets, Donald Trump Chocks Off Debate Critics Theyre a lost cause and may be lost forever, he continued. Trump supporters, he said, assertively reject key conservative principles like limited government and checks on executive authority. They want a strongman, they want a caudillo. He added, They may be gone for good in terms of being part of the coalition. At this point, the Republican candidates that are left in the race, Wilson said, are not even trying to take away Trumps voters anymore, but rather to consolidate the remainder behind a single candidate. That includes Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, who Wilson, a Floridian himself, supports. To a longtime GOP activist like Wilson, watching Trump tear the party apart is obviously painful. Related: The Four Major Blind Spots Trump Voters Need to Correct This election, up on the debate stage we had two Cuban-Americans, an African-American, a woman, he said. This could have been a year when people were looking at the Republican Party as the aspirational mirror of what America is. Instead, he said, Trump has distorted the face of the party with appeals to bigotry, fear, and a sense of betrayal. I got in so much trouble last year when I said there is a whiff of fascism about Trump, Wilson says with grim humor. Now, when people ask, Is Trump a fascist? everyone says, Of course he is. Top Reads from The Fiscal Times: Ankara (AFP) - Turkish armed forces shelled positions of the Islamic State (IS) group in Syria in coordination with the US-led international anti-jihadist coalition, local media reported on Monday. Turkish artillery fired 50 to 60 shells from howitzers positioned in its southern Kilis region against IS targets in the north of Syria's Aleppo province, the private Dogan news agency reported. A fragile ceasefire has taken effect in Syria, but jihadists are excluded from it. It was the first attack in several weeks since Turkey, a member of the international coalition against the IS group, stuck jihadist positions in Syria. Turkish artillery have fired on IS targets in Syria and in Iraq after a deadly suicide attack in Istanbul's tourist hub of Sultanahmet in January. The ceasefire deal in Syria, brokered by Russia and the United States, has been in place since Friday midnight. UN chief Ban Ki-moon said there been some incidents but the ceasefire was generally holding. The deal does not apply to territory held by the IS group and Al-Qaeda affiliate Al-Nusra Front. Turkish artillery has fired Kurdish militia forces this month, saying it was responding to incoming fire. Ankara said the Syria truce should have excluded the People's Protection Units (YPG) militia, which it considers to be a terror group linked to its own Kurdish militants. However the United States works closely with the YPG as the best fighting force on the ground in northern Syria the battle against IS. The issue has caused major tensions between the two NATO allies, with Washington wanting Ankara to focus on the fight against IS jihadists rather than the Kurdish fighters. ANKARA (Reuters) - Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday that the Syrian ceasefire declared last week covered only one third of the country and he hoped it would be expanded to encompass all of it. Attacks are still going on in parts of the country, Erdogan, who is on an official visit to West Africa, told a joint news conference in Abidjan with his Ivorian counterpart. The news conference was broadcast live in Turkey. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said on Monday the pause in the fighting was largely holding, despite some incidents that he hoped would be contained. (Reporting by Ece Toksabay; Editing by David Dolan) Morong (Philippines) (AFP) - Hundreds of tiny turtle hatchlings emerge above a Philippine beach at night and immediately look to the sea, hoping to beat huge odds and start a remarkable trans-oceanic journey lasting decades. The olive ridleys, each shorter than a credit card, are among five species of sea turtles in the Philippines that are in danger of extinction, mostly because they are prized as a protein-rich food. "Not too long ago, all marine turtle eggs here ended up in the pot," said Manolo Ibias, 63, a part-time fisherman and farmer who in his youth stole ridley eggs buried along the coast to eat as omelettes. As a late convert to conservation, Ibias has for the past 17 years led Pawikan Conservation Centre, a community-based effort to protect turtles in Morong, a town about 80 kilometres (50 miles) west of Manila, which is the olive ridleys' largest known egg-laying site in the country. Globally, all seven known marine turtle species are declining or near extinction, mostly because of human actions, according to the Swiss-based International Union for the Conservation of Nature. These include accidental capture by giant nets of industrial-scale fishing trawlers, as well as coastal development that rob the migratory reptiles of nesting sites. And while the sea turtle trade is banned under an international convention, their meat and eggs remain a source of food and income for many people, such as those in the mostly poor fishing villages near Morong. They are also harvested around the world for medicine, religious ceremonies and as articles of fashion. - Conservation efforts - In the Philippines, government-led conservation efforts began in the early 1980s, said Angelita Viloria, from the government's threatened species management unit. Viloria said these efforts, focused mainly on educating communities but with little funding, were aimed at protecting about 100 major nesting sites, including at Morong. Story continues A law was also passed in 2001 punishing the trafficking of turtles and other endangered species with stiff jail terms and fines. "Our goal is to reach a stable population, when they will no longer be endangered," she said. However turtle numbers are likely still in decline, according to Romeo Trono, who previously ran the government's sea turtle conservation programme and is a respected global expert on the animal. While some local communities have been educated, Chinese traders have emerged as the greatest threat, bringing boats close to Philippine islands and filling them with turtles bought from local poachers, Trono said. In China, turtles have for centuries been prized for their medicinal value and as a food, and rising incomes in the world's most populous nation have fuelled demand. Eleven Chinese fishermen wee arrested for poaching more than 500 marine turtles last year and are on trial on the western Philippine island of Palawan. But Viloria conceded Chinese-orchestrated poaching remains a major problem in the Philippines, a nation of more than 7,000 islands with a small and poorly funded coast guard. "Our waters are too vast. We cannot effectively conduct patrols," Viloria said. - Slim survival chances - Morong's Pawikan centre, named after the Filipino term for the animal, is promoted as a showcase for the national efforts to protect the species. But it also illustrates the many challenges. For five months starting each October, about 200 turtles lay an astounding 19,000 rubbery, ping pong ball-sized turtle eggs -- mostly olive ridley -- at Morong. To protect them from poachers, the centre's 17 volunteers, mostly local fishermen and farmers, dig the eggs up and bury them at a guarded artificial hatchery nearby. They also take turns patrolling the seven-kilometre (four-mile) stretch of South China Sea coastline in an all-terrain buggy in a bid to stop residents of nearby villages from stealing them. Natural predation from birds and fish, as well as human activity, mean just one percent of hatchlings typically survive into adulthood, according to conservation groups. At Morong, the odds are even worse. Relocating the eggs initially to the artificial hatchery cuts their survival chances because they are taken away from their natural habitat, according to Ibias. And with no national government financial support, the centre relies almost entirely on tourists for funding -- which has some potentially deadly consequences. As a survival instinct to avoid predators, the hatchlings always emerge from their shells at night and aim to get straight to the water. However, to cater for the tourists, the hatchlings are prevented from immediately running from the sand to the ocean, sometimes being made to wait hours in a big bucket until tourists turn up in the morning. For 50 pesos (about $1), visitors can pick one up, take a photo with it, then release it into the ocean. But preventing the hatchlings from immediately crawling to the water exhausts them, Trono explained. He warned low nesting numbers at Morong indicated the species may disappear locally soon. Ibias also warned conservation efforts could eventually fail, with impoverished villagers often feeling they have no choice but to eat turtle eggs. He said: "Until we alleviate the problem (of poverty), getting rid of the poachers will remain next to impossible." By Joseph Ax NEW YORK (Reuters) - A U.S. Air Force veteran betrayed his country and tried to become a fighter for the militant group Islamic State, federal prosecutors told a New York jury on Monday at the start of his criminal trial. Tairod Nathan Webster Pugh traveled to Turkey in an effort to join Islamic State after he "immersed himself" in the group's violent propaganda, watching videos of beheadings and expressing approval on Facebook, Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Bini said in Brooklyn federal court. But Pugh's defense lawyer, Eric Creizman, said Pugh's only crime was to voice support for Islamic State and that there was no evidence he planned to cross into Islamic State-controlled territory in Syria from Turkey. "In this country, you don't punish a person for his thoughts," he said. The case appears to be only the second Islamic State-related prosecution to reach trial, out of more than 75 brought by the U.S. Department of Justice since 2014. Earlier this month, Abdul Malik Abdul Kareem, who is accused of plotting with others to attack a Prophet Mohammed cartoon contest in Texas, went on trial in Phoenix. Two of his alleged associates were killed in a shootout with police at the event. Pugh, 48, was detained by Turkish authorities in Istanbul in January 2015 after he returned from a year-long stint living in Egypt. U.S. investigators say they found a letter to Pugh's Egyptian wife on his computer declaring he would "defend the Islamic States" and saying he had two options: "Victory or Martyr." They also discovered approximately 180 jihadist videos on his laptop, including one that showed Islamic State militants executing prisoners, according to prosecutors. Pugh destroyed four portable data drives upon being detained. Pugh served as an avionics specialist in the Air Force from 1986 to 1990. In 2001, while Pugh was working as a mechanic for American Airlines, a co-worker tipped off the FBI that Pugh had expressed support for Osama bin Laden and al Qaeda, according to court documents. Story continues Pugh later worked as an Army contractor in Iraq from 2009 to 2010, prosecutors said. U.S. District Judge Nicholas Garaufis has taken the rare step of agreeing to seal the courtroom during the testimony of an undercover FBI employee in order to protect his identity. An audio feed will be broadcast for the public in a separate courtroom, Garaufis said in a court order. The trial is expected to last two weeks. (Reporting by Joseph Ax; Editing by Scott Malone and Dan Grebler) Associated Press U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham on Friday asked the U.S. Supreme Court to intervene after a lower court ordered him to testify before a special grand jury in Georgia investigating whether then-President Donald Trump and others illegally tried to influence the 2020 election in the state. Thomas has previously come under scrutiny for his vote in a different Trump documents case, in which he was the only member of the court to vote against allowing the House committee investigating the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot to obtain Trump records held by the National Archives and Records Administration. By Ece Toksabay and Idrees Ali ANKARA/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Defense ministers from the U.S.-led coalition against the Islamic State militant group discussed the possibility of a Syrian ground incursion two weeks ago but they have not made a decision, an aide to Saudi Arabia's defense minister said on Monday. "It was discussed two weeks ago in Brussels," Brigadier General Ahmed Asseri said in a telephone interview from Riyadh. "It was discussed at the political level but it wasn't discussed as a military mission," he said. "Once this is organized, and decided how many troops and how they will go and where they will go, we will participate in that," he said. "We need to discuss at the military level very extensively with the military experts to make sure that we have a plan." Asseri also said the kingdom was now ready to strike Islamic State from Turkey's southern Incirlik air base, where four Saudi fighter jets arrived last week. The jets have not yet participated in any attacks, he added. The U.S. State Department said the Saudis had previously talked about the possibility of introducing ground forces in Syria to fight Islamic State, but there were many issues that needed to be discussed about a potential incursion. Deploying ground forces would be a major escalation for the 66-member U.S.-led coalition against Islamic State, which has so far relied mainly on air strikes and arming and equipping moderate Syrian opposition groups. State Department spokesman John Kirby said at a news briefing in Washington that the Saudis had talked about "the potential of an introduction of some sort of ground force element in Syria" and that the United States would welcome such a contribution in the fight against Islamic State. "But there's a lot that needs to be discussed in terms of what they would do, what their makeup would be, how they would need to be supported by the coalition going forward. So there's a lot of homework that needs to be done," Kirby said. A U.S. defense official said supporting indigenous anti-Islamic State forces on the ground was a key component of the U.S. strategy against the group. "We will continue to provide equipment packages to vetted leaders and their units so that over time they can make a concerted push into territory still controlled" by Islamic State, the official said. "As a matter of policy, we won't comment or speculate on potential future operations," the official added. (Writing by Humeyra Pamuk and Mohammad Zargham; Editing by David Dolan and Lisa Shumaker) By Julia Harte WASHINGTON (Reuters) - As the Senate's top Republican mulls whether to push ahead on a criminal justice reform package, the bills advocates say its power to cut crime is on display in his own back yard. Mitch McConnell, the Senate's Republican leader, represents Kentucky, one of a handful of states that have had some success with sentencing reform and reducing violent crime. Violent crime rates are down nationwide since President Barack Obama's first term, but states such as Kentucky have seen it fall more steeply than the national rate. Kentucky's imprisonment rate also declined after it reduced sentences for certain drug offenders and passed a policy to release some prisoners to community supervision before the end of their sentences in 2011. The policy saved the state more than $29 million over two-and-a-half years, according to the Pew Charitable Trusts, a policy research group. McConnell could move forward in the Senate with a reform measure that would lower mandatory minimum sentences for some nonviolent federal drug offenders and permit judges to rehear cases with those new sentences in mind. It is backed by the Obama administration and a bipartisan group of 30 senators. The federal measure "has been informed by success stories" in states that have passed similar laws over the past decade, U.S. Deputy Attorney General Sally Yates told Reuters. "I'm confident that we would see similar results if Congress were to pass important reforms at the federal level," she said. McConnell in January vowed to bring "everybody in the Republican Conference up to speed... before any decision is made about floor time" since the bill has so far been discussed mainly in the Senate Judiciary Committee. McConnell spokesman Don Stewart said he had no new announcements on the bill's prospects for advancement. Some Republicans oppose it, such as Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton, who says parts of the proposal applying to armed drug offenders would release thousands of violent felons. But sponsors of the Senate package cite state-level success in arguing for the federal reforms. While I am excited about our federal prospects, the fact is that we could not have gotten to this point if it were not for the great reforms that Utah and other red states around the country are enacting, Republican Utah Senator Mike Lee told Reuters, referring to states that predominantly support the Republican Party. Thirty states reduced crime and imprisonment rates simultaneously between 2009 and 2014, Pew said, with 18 of those states' crime rates falling faster than the national rate. Utah last year lowered penalties for certain drug offenses. It also restricted prison beds to only the most serious offenders through a law the state expects to nearly flatline prison growth over the next 20 years and save $542 million. The U.S. Sentencing Commission estimates more than 12,000 prisoners - about six percent of the federal prison population - would be eligible to have their cases reheard under the Senate bill. A parallel package of bills in the House of Representatives also awaits a floor vote. Earlier this month, Justice Action Network hired McConnells former chief of staff, Hunter Bates, to lobby for the bill. Bates told Reuters that McConnell is not quite ready to advance the bill yet, but that it is on a "short list" of bills that have a shot at becoming law in 2016. (Reporting by Julia Harte; Editing by Kevin Drawbaugh and Andrew Hay) LONDON (Reuters) - A British exit from the European Union could lead to 10 years or more of damaging uncertainty while a new relationship with both the bloc and other countries is negotiated, the British government said on Monday. Prime Minister David Cameron, who earlier this month agreed a deal with other EU leaders to reform Britain's relationship with the bloc, is campaigning for an 'In' vote in a referendum on UK membership to be held on June 23 although a number of his own ministers back a British exit. In an document setting out the process of withdrawing from the EU, the government said leaving the bloc was unprecedented and unpredictable. "It would take up to decade or more to negotiate firstly our exit from the EU, secondly our future arrangements with the EU, and thirdly our trade deals with countries outside of the EU, on any terms that would be acceptable to the UK," the document, published on Monday, said. "This would be a long period of uncertainty, which would have consequences for UK businesses, trade and inward investment." While the official government position is to back 'In', several of Cameron's top team of ministers and London Mayor Boris Johnson are campaigning for a so-called Brexit and have accused the government of scaremongering. One of those, Chris Grayling, leader of parliament's lower house, said a post-Brexit deal with the EU would be done relatively quickly as it was in EU countries' financial interests to continue trading with Britain. "What possible evidence is there that it will take us 10 years to sort out trading arrangements?" he told the BBC. "We buy far more from them than they buy from us, the jobs at risk if we do not rapidly move to a new trading arrangement are in Bavaria, and in France and in Italy and in Spain ... It will be quick enough to ensure there isn't a hiatus in trading because they will lose financially if there is." (Reporting by Kylie MacLellan; editing by Michael Holden) We have a serious cessation of hostilities in Syria, finally, and its the best chance for peace since protests became violent four years ago. But there was no sliver of daylight between the joint announcement of the U.S.-Russian agreement last Monday and an onslaught of skepticism: The prevailing view is that it would be great if this deal holds but theres little chance it will. The doubters are overdoing it. True, all previous efforts to halt the violence in Syria and bring warring parties to the negotiating table have collapsed in ignominysometimes in a day. As an odds game, the skeptics seem to bet wisely. Related: Turkey Says Obama Shares Syria Concerns With Erdogan, Affirms Support Theyre unwisely missing the essential point: Diplomatic circumstances and facts on the ground have changed drastically in just a few weeks. Most of those needed to achieve a settlement now have a motivation to work toward one. This truth arises from a single new reality. The Obama administration has long asserted that there is no military solution in Syriaonly a political bargain. But Russias air campaign in support of Syrian troops as theyve approached Aleppo and other key towns and cities has just proven the president and Secretary of State Kerry wrong. There most certainly is a military solution available, and we can count on the Russians to impose it if the informal ceasefire that took effect Friday at midnight fails. Its hard to imagine that rebel militias, as well as their Saudi and Turkish backers, dont understand this. I follow the presidential campaign debates, especially between Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, with this thought in mind. Clinton persists in calling for a U.S.-enforced no-fly zone sequestering northern Syria on its border with Turkey; Sanders wants to disengage as far as possible. Related: Israel Pessimistic on Syria Ceasefire, Talks Up Sectarian Partition Theyre both off. Since Russian warplanes are bound to continue bombing ISIS and al-Nusra targets, Clintons proposal presents a reckless risk of widening warfare. Sanders forgets Colin Powells adage after the 2003 invasion of Iraq: You break it, you own it. In Syria as in Iraq, the U.S. role in precipitating the crisis means it has to commit itself to a resolution if theres to be one. Story continues One point of concern about the ceasefire deal is that it was struck between Moscow and Washington. Not everyone has signed on. I dont see this, either. When the Russians flew their first bombing sortie last September 30, Syria was instantly transformed into a field of great-power rivalry. Two signatures on the accord are therefore enough, at least at this stage. Moscow and Washington can controldirectly or indirectly, easily or coercivelyall the combatants the pact covers and all their outside supporters. Whats the view from Moscow and Washington, then, now that theyve reached a fragile agreement on Syria? From the Russian perspective, Syria has gone from a significant liability to an opportunity. The air campaign has plainly been effective. Its now beyond dispute that Moscow has an essential role in whatever version of a political settlement may come to be. Related: Syria government, ISIS Commit Crimes Against Humanity Note how President Vladimir Putin made the deal public: He went on national television and, with an unmistakable suggestion of pride, announced that Russians and Americans had agreed to work together in Syria. Dont miss the subtext: This is Putins best chance yet to prove Russias status as a great power, as he has long desired. His success on the ground is half the loaf. Now he has to do whatever he can to make a ceasefire and political talks come good. Moscow now has to keep Damascus in line, and this ought not to prove difficult. President Bashar al-Assad has accepted the terms of the deal, even if he hasnt signed it, and hes likely to stay with it for one reason: It serves his interests. The pause in fighting may have the unintended consequence of consolidating President Assads hold on power over Syria for at least the next few years, David Sanger wrote in Saturdays New York Times. It may also begin to freeze in place what already amounts to an informal partition of the country, even though the stated objective of the West is to keep the country whole. Related: The Road to Aleppo: How The West Misread Putin Over Syria As to the Obama administration, its hard to say whether it overplayed its hand or underplayed it. Either way, lets leave it that Obama and Kerry didnt make lemonade out of this lemon. By strategic ambiguity or ineptitude, the Obama administration bumbled along ineffectively in Syria for four years even after the ISIS emerged as a force in 2014. Moscows decisive entry into the conflict caught the White House utterly off guard, and in consequence, the bargaining table now offers the only one dignified exit strategy. Washingtons big jobs are several. First, it must now tell us allespecially the Russiansjust who is legitimate opposition and why. Russias probably in no mood for another blurry American account of some Islamist militias as moderate in supposed contrast to others. The U.S. just sent Russia a list of 69 armed rebel groups that accept the ceasefire accord, Reuters reported Sunday, citing Russias Interfax news agency. This has to make good, clear reading if it is to prove effective. Second, Washington has to whip Turkey and Saudi Arabia back into their cages. The Turks assert they will continue to attack Syrian Kurds as terroristsridiculousand the Saudis continue spoiling for war even since the ceasefire took effect. At this moment the Syrian crisis comes to one remarkably symmetrical contradiction: For Russia, the war is an existential threat, given its role in breeding terrorists, with strategic considerations attaching; for the U.S., strategic rivalry still dominates the thinking on Syria, while there is little threat to national security. If the new agreement halting hostilities is to lead anywhere, these upside-down interests will have to be reconciled. Top Reads from The Fiscal Times: Washington (AFP) - Pentagon officials spoke with Russian counterparts on Monday as part of a series of discussions aimed at avoiding military mishaps in Syria. Russia and a US-led coalition are conducting separate military campaigns in war-torn Syria, with the United States targeting the Islamic State group and Russia supporting regime forces, and officials worry about a midair collision or some other accident. "The two sides discussed measures to enhance operational safety ... including the means to avoid accidents and unintended confrontation between coalition and Russian forces whenever the two sides operate in close proximity," Pentagon press secretary Peter Cook said in a statement. The video call was the latest communication in a "memorandum of understanding" agreed in October. Russia and the United States did not address Syria's current "cessation of hostilities" aimed at bringing humanitarian aid into the country, as that partial ceasefire does not include operations against the IS group. "The events there (are) having no effect on our counter-ISIL campaign," Defense Secretary Ashton Carter told reporters, using an alternative acronym for the jihadist group. "There's certainly no cessation of hostilities there." By My Pham HANOI (Reuters) - If it had been in business a decade ago, Nguyen Anh Thuan's restaurant would have been a target for late-night police raids to arrest lawbreakers and stamp out "social evils". But Comga Cafe, in the heart of Vietnam's capital, is no gambling den, after-hours bar or front for dealing drugs. It is an enterprise friendly to people of all sexual preferences in a one-party state where conservative values are strong. Yet Thuan is experiencing success instead of resistance. Prejudice is giving way to some liberalism, he says, in a country often labeled a human rights abuser but now one of Asia's most progressive on gay, lesbian and transgender issues. That has spawned a niche market of an estimated 1.6 million Vietnamese at a time of galloping growth, offering money-making opportunities to firms that provide services from travel and weddings to insurance and healthcare. "Our business benefits a lot from the LGBT community," said Thuan, who also advises businesses on lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender issues, which are often abbreviated as LGBT. "Many LGBT people hold high positions in big firms and don't have to hide themselves. Society is more open to them." While transgender, gay and lesbian people are persecuted and even jailed in many Asian countries, Vietnam has quietly become a trailblazer, with laws to decriminalize gay marriage and co-habitation and recognize sex changes on identity documents. "I see a lot more openness in Vietnam now," said Bach Linh, a lesbian. "Many LGBT people make lots of money and want to spend it. This will attract the attention of businessmen soon." Seminars and corporate-sponsored "Viet Pride" festivals get free rein, and state media discuss once-taboo issues of sex and gender preferences. It is unclear what prompted the relaxation by the government, which has never openly spelt out its policy. The Justice Ministry did not respond to questions from Reuters, and vice health minister Nguyen Viet Tien, who was once quoted speaking in support of gay marriage, told Reuters his ministry was not responsible for policy and declined to comment. Marketing firms are tracking consumer trends among lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender people, including private healthcare providers such as Safe Living, which estimates such clients contributed about 30 percent of its 2015 profit. MB Market Makers, which specializes in development of what it calls "the uniquely lucrative LGBT market", aims to include Vietnam in its 2016 consumer research. It recently valued the Chinese market at $850 billion annually and the U.S. market at $950 billion, though there are no comparable figures for Vietnam. "RADICAL CHANGE" Budget airline VietJet Air is targeting the same audience, with a television advertisement featuring an in-flight lesbian wedding. "There's no law against it, so why not?" Managing Director Luu Duc Kanh told Reuters. Vietnamese transgender people have strutted the catwalk at a fashion event with rainbow bridal dresses and a gay wedding. "After the show, dozens of LGBT customers came to me for my advice and to use my designs," said organizer Caroll Tran. In 2014, USAID said attitudes had undergone a "radical change" from a decade ago, when gay activity was treated as a crime and a mental health issue. But family problems, workplace discrimination and violence in schools persisted, it added. Vietnamese academic Luong The Huy said the changes reflected political will and greater public discussion. Randy Berry, U.S. special envoy for human rights of LGBT persons, told Reuters that, whatever its reasons, Vietnam had actively engaged with an issue neighbors still consider taboo. Gay sex is illegal in Singapore and mainly Muslim Malaysia, where some states also outlaw cross-dressing. In Brunei, sharia religious law forbids sodomy, and activists in Muslim-majority Indonesia recently called growing hostility toward gays "a witch hunt". Thailand does not formally recognize same-sex unions or sex changes, but a new constitution is expected to include "third gender" provisions. "Progress in places like this shows it's completely possible to honor tradition and be embracing of diversity," Berry said. (Reporting by My Pham; Additional reporting by Martin Petty; Editing by John Chalmers and Clarence Fernandez) Im the least qualified man here tonight, Vice President Joe Biden said tonight at the 88th Academy Awards as he was given a standing ovation from Hollywood A-listers and undoubtedly more than a few Democratic donors who wish he was running for President. Despite significant progress over the last few years, too many woman and men on and off college campuses are still victims of sexual abuse, the Veep told industry power players and the tens of millions watching on TV. Tonight, Im asking you to join millions of Americans including me, President Obama, the thousands of students Ive met on college campuses and the artists here tonight to take the pledge. The VP was at the Oscars on Sunday to introduce Lady Gagas performance of the performance of Best Original Song nominee Til It Happens To You from the documentary The Hunting Ground. It lost the Oscar to Writings on the Wall from Spectre. RelatedNew Hampshire Primary Result Reignites Biden Talk For Hollywood Democrats The pledge says I will intervene in situations where consent has not or can not be given, Biden said. Lets change the culture, we must and we can change the culture. Proud to stand by my friend @LadyGaga tonight. Pure courage that inspires, challenges us all. #ItsOnUs. All of us. pic.twitter.com/1eee3v0Xd2 Vice President Biden (@VP) February 29, 2016 Long scheduled to be in California this weekend to address the states Democratic Convention yesterday in San Jose, Bidens appearance at the Oscars was virtually a state secret up until last week. However, sources tell me it has been in the making for several weeks. His wife Dr. Jill Biden, who walked the red carpet earlier tonight, joined the Vice President at the Dolby Theatre. The duo arrived in L.A. on Saturday evening with the usual extensive road closures and high security as when the Veep whipped over to Hollywood and Highland tonight. Story continues On the move: The @VP motorcade makes its way to the Dolby Theatre for the #Oscars. pic.twitter.com/HRBRfLxNXd VP Biden Live (@VPLive) February 29, 2016 Co-authored by Gaga and Diane Warren, Til It Happens To You is part of the controversial Kirby Dick-directed and Amy Ziering-produced docu about campus sexual assault highlights. The man who might have been Barack Obamas successor was in town and on stage at the Dolby tonight to advocating that Hollywood and huge TV audience log on to the administrations campaign to stop such horror at itsonus.org. The issue is not new as a priority to the VP. As a Senator, Biden was one of the co-authors of the 1994 Violence Against Women Act. No word on what Oscar parties the Armani wearing Veep and Dr. Biden are attending but being theyre in town until tomorrow morning expect the Second Couple to be hitting at least one hot spot tonight so Ive heard. Looks like MPAA head and Bidens former Senate colleague Chris Dodd will be hitching a ride back to D.C. on Air Force 2 tomorrow. Related stories Jimmy Kimmel's Post-Oscar Special Slips In Ratings As Oscar Broadcast Stumbles Stacey Dash Not Done With Her Oscar Moment, Reads Mean Tweets Oscar Ratings: Chris Rock's Return As Host Draws 34M Viewers In 8-Year Low Geneva (AFP) - The chief of scandal-hit carmaker Volkswagen Matthias Mueller on Monday called for the German giant to "learn from past mistakes", as it seeks to recover from the devastating impact of revelations that it was cheating on emissions tests. Shaping the future will only succeed "if, at the same time, we learn from past mistakes," Mueller said in a speech in Geneva quoted by a Volkswagen statement. "2016 is the year when we intend to solve the problem with our diesel engines for our customers, and when we realign the group for the future," he said. "We are tackling this twofold task with the necessary respect, but also in the firm conviction that the group and its brands can and will emerge from this difficult phase even stronger." A major international scandal broke last year after it emerged that millions of Volkswagen vehicles had been fitted with an emissions test "defeat" device, or cheating software. Former Porsche leader Mueller took the reins of the embattled corporation after ex-CEO Martin Winterkorn resigned in disgrace. In 2015, VW's own-brand sales fell five percent to 5.82 million vehicles worldwide, the first decline in 11 years, the company revealed. VW owns 12 brands in all, including marques such as Audi, Porsche and Skoda, and overall group sales were down two percent last year at 9.93 million vehicles, the first fall since 2002. On top of lost earnings, VW is also facing a barrage of different legal complaints related to the scandal. In the United States, Volkswagen faces potentially huge damages to pay over the pollution cheat devices on its diesel-engine cars. On Monday the carmaker also said it would intensify "the interaction between its digitalisation and design activities - a groundbreaking approach for the automotive industry". Johann Jungwirth, VW's chief digital officer, was also hopeful of a full recovery: "I am firmly convinced we will become a leading mobility provider by 2025." The gender pay gap is a worldwide problem, but women in some places have it worse than others. A new report from the Institute for Womens Policy Research (IWPR) reveals that working women in the South suffer some of the harshest inequalities in the U.S., not only in terms of how much they are paid, but how they are treated in the workforce. To compare the status of women across the nation, the report grades each state based on six categories: political participation, employment and earnings, work and family, poverty and opportunity, reproductive rights, and health and well-being. Not a single Southern state was given an overall grade higher than a C-. In fact, 10 out of the 14 Southern states received some form of a D grade, as shown in the chart below. Best and Worst States in the South Institute for Womens Policy Research While not all of the reports findings are this bleak, many of them reveal startling realities about just how divisive the workplace is for women in the South. When it comes to political participation, for instance, only one Southern stateNorth Carolinaearned above a D grade. Meanwhile, the report concludes that it will take more than 200 years for West Virginia and South Carolina to achieve gender parity in their state legislaturesalmost double the time it will take to close the global pay gap. Recommended: America's Insidious Eviction Problem Where the Southern pay gap is concerned, the report shows that the average woman in the South lost out on $6,392 in 2014 due to wage inequality. When this number is added up for all women in the South, the loss amounts to a whopping $155.4 billion per year. One silver lining to these troubling statistics is the fact that women in the South tend to have better access to affordable childcare than those in the rest of the country, according to the report. In fact, the IWPRs childcare index places half of the Southern states among the top 10 states with the highest-quality and most-affordable childcare in the U.S. On the other hand, only one Southern stateWashington, D.C., which is not really a state at alllegally offers paid leave to its employees (the Accrued Sick and Safe Leave Act mandates paid sick days). This region-wide disparity not only places a disproportionate burden on mothers, but particularly on black Southern mothers, who in four out of five cases are the main breadwinners in their families. Story continues More From Our Partners CityLab On a more positive note, the presence of so many working women in the South has resulted in a relatively high share of female-owned businesses. Nine out of the 14 Southern states surpass the national average for business ownership by women, the report says, with black women owning nearly 60 percent of all black-owned businesses there. And yet, black and Hispanic women in the South are still twice as likely to live in poverty as Southern women who are white or Asian/Pacific Islander. For every promising sign for women in the South, there are far too many concerning ones. Recommended: Calculating the True Cost of Affordable Housing Southern women fare a bit better in terms of reproductive rights. According to the report, 10 of the Southern states received a D or above in this category, and not one Southern state received an F. Still, the idea that a D is considered a promising grade points to a deeper problem of gender inequality in the South. The report also shows that Southern women are more likely to to receive preventative care such as mammograms or HIV screening than women in other areas of the U.S. Sadly, these women are also more likely to die of heart disease or breast cancer, be diagnosed with diabetes or AIDS, or experience more days of poor mental health per month. When it comes to the overall status of women in the South, the results are discouraging. For every promising sign for women in the South, there are far too many concerning ones, the IWPR President Heidi Hartmann said in a press release. The future is not hopeless, however. Making sure womens voices are heard at the ballot box and in the state house is central to improving womens status in the South and beyond, Hartmann added. These realities of gender inequality are worth bearing in mind this Super Tuesday, as Southern states like Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Tennessee, Texas, and Virginia help to elect the future leader of our nation. This article appears courtesy of CityLab. Read more from The Atlantic: This article was originally published on The Atlantic. NEW YORK (Reuters) - An upstate New York correctional officer pleaded guilty on Monday to helping two convicts make a daring escape from a maximum security prison last year, and was sentenced to six months in jail and $5,000 in fines. Gene Palmer admitted to charges that he gave a screwdriver and pliers to two inmates who escaped in June 2015 from the Clinton Correctional Facility in Dannemora, about 25 miles from the Canadian border in the Adirondack Mountains. At least some of the tools smuggled to inmates David Sweat and Richard Matt were hidden in frozen meat provided by Joyce Mitchell, another prison employee. After a three-week manhunt, Matt was fatally shot by a federal agent and Sweat was captured two days later. Sweat, who was already serving a life sentence for killing a law enforcement officer, was sentenced in February to up to 14 more years for the escape. Palmer pleaded guilty in Clinton County Court in Plattsburgh, New York, on Monday to two counts of promoting prison contraband, one a felony and one a misdemeanor, and official misconduct, a misdemeanor. Clinton County District Attorney Andrew Wylie asked Judge Kevin Ryan to sentence Palmer to at least one year in county jail. Palmer remained silent in court except to plead to the charges. Before sentencing him, the judge cited Palmer's 28 years of otherwise unblemished service as well as his help in an ongoing state inspector general's investigation into the dramatic break. Calling it an "egregious violation of your duties," the judge noted that Palmer had allowed Sweat to enter passageways behind prison cell walls, which helped the inmates plan their June 2015 escape. Eventually the pair cut through a steel wall and slithered through a steam pipe before emerging from a manhole on the street outside the prison's walls. Mitchell, the prison employee who admitted helping the two convicted murderers by smuggling them tools, was sentenced in September to 2-1/3 to seven years in prison. Story continues The judge noted that Palmer said he had helped the inmates in exchange for "priceless" information that helped keep corrections officers and other inmates safe in their often violent surroundings. Palmer will resign from the corrections department, the judge said. After the escape, he was suspended from his $74,644 a year job as a guard. (Reporting by Barbara Goldberg; Editing by David Gregorio) LUSAKA (Reuters) - Copper production in Zambia, Africa's second-biggest producer of the metal, will be around 700,000 tonnes this year and next year before rising to 1 million tonnes in 2018, a top government official said on Monday. "We are likely be in the same level as last year because the pricing of copper has been consistently low and some mines have frozen production," Mining ministry permanent secretary Paul Chanda told Reuters. (Reporting by Chris Mfula; Editing by James Macharia) newsandtech.com expired on 10/18/2022 and is pending renewal or deletion. Backorder Domain Ballot recount in UNC elections The party held executive elections in eight constituencies on Saturday - Caroni Central; Chaguanas West; Cumuto/Manzanilla; Couva South; Fyzabad; Lopinot/Bon Air West; Mayaro and Oropouche East. In an interview yesterday, UNC elections officer, Don Sylvester said the results should be released later in the week after the party had satisfied all of the legal requirements governing the elections. We received all the tally sheets and the records of the polling stations, all the ballot boxes came in with all the results, Sylvester said, adding, we now have to go through them and one or two for example, one was a tied vote and in another case, you had one person querying, asking for a recount, so I cannot give you the final results, but during this week it will be sent to all the media. Sylvester continued: It will take a few days to make sure things are finalised, if anybody have to query any results for example, some might ask for a recount because some are close, so we must satisfy the legal requirements. Asked at what times the earliest ballot boxes had arrived at the partys Rienzi Complex, Couva headquarters, he said the early ones came around 9o clock from Lopinot/ Bon Air and 2 in the morning from Mayaro because they had a heavy turnout. And not Mayaro alone, in Fyzabad there was a heavy, heavy turnout. Remember they had two different teams contesting and in Chaguanas, you had three different teams contesting, and each team comprise 12 people so you had to count each person vote, so you talking about maybe 4 in the morning, he added. More than 500 members were nominated for the various posts in 39 of the countrys 41 constituencies but many were elected unopposed, leaving just nine Trinidad constituencies to hold the election. Eight were held on Saturday while the ninth will be held next Saturday (March 5th, 2016). The constituency elections for Tobago have been deferred to a date to be fixed. Meanwhile, UNC political leader, Kamla Persad-Bissessar, in a statement, said she was pleased with the manner in which members of the party had conducted themselves. It was a demonstration of commitment and discipline in the UNC, she stated, adding that the election showed that democracy is alive and well in our party In 1991, Darnell Phillips was convicted of the 1990 rape of a ... But DNA evidence the prosecutors had obtained was never tested or brought into evidence in his case . ... experience in the investigation and litigation of wrongful convictions ... In April, the FBI announced the results of a hair comparison study ... More wrongful convictions feared as state crime lab review underway ... FBI review has found was repeated hundreds of times in cases across the country. ... up in Massachusetts because of bad science about hair analysis? At trial, an FBI examiner testified that the hairs microscopically ... have proposed capping damages in wrongful imprisonment cases , the law ... Debate rages in courts over 'high-sensitivity' DNA analysis mikenova shared this story from AP Top News at 3:20 a.m. EST. NEW YORK (AP) -- One New York judge ruled the DNA evidence was scientifically sound. Another, just miles away, tossed it out as unreliable.... Facing the Taliban and His Past, an Afghan Leader Aims for a Different Ending mikenova shared this story from NYT > World. Abdul Jabar Qahraman, who surrendered Lashkar Gah to rebels two decades ago, has returned as President Ashraf Ghanis representative and tried to negotiate, rather than fight, with todays ... Netanyahu Welcomes Cease-Fire in Syria, but Adds a Warning mikenova shared this story from NYT > World. Israeli soldiers in the Golan Heights this month. Israel has repeatedly stated that it does not take sides in the Syrian civil war, but over the last few years numerous airstrikes in Syria ... When gods were hauled into Indian courts mikenova shared this story from BBC News - World. When gods were hauled into Indian courts Russia's Lavrov, U.S. Kerry discuss Syria ceasefire plan mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. MOSCOW (Reuters) - Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry spoke on the phone on Sunday about closer cooperation between their countries' militari... Here's Why the FBI Went After Apple When It Did - Fortune mikenova shared this story from fbi - Google News. Fortune Here's Why the FBI Went After Apple When It Did Fortune J. Edgar Hoover was a master at this game. The legendary FBI director would latch on to the latest boogeymanthe Lindbergh... Pentagon says employee is suspect in killings mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes. An Army staff sergeant assigned to the Pentagon was arrested on murder and other charges in the death of a police officer and another person, authorities said Sunday. First Russian air strikes in 48 hours of Syrian truce mikenova shared this story from DEBKAFile. February 28, 2016, 10:38 PM (IDT) Following day-long reports that the Syrian truce was more or less holding on its second day Sunday, It turned out that Russian forces had carried out air and ar... Judge orders DC to pay $13.2 million in wrongful FBI hair conviction case - Washington Post mikenova shared this story from fbi - Google News. Washington Post Judge orders DC to pay $13.2 million in wrongful FBI hair conviction case Washington Post They were convicted at trial through exaggerated claims about the reliability of... Defense News TV: NATO's Deputy Supreme Allied Commander mikenova shared this story from Defense News - Home. Defense News TV: NATO's Deputy Supreme Allied Commander ISIS Baghdad strikes kill 87 Iraqi security officers, Shiites mikenova shared this story from DEBKAFile. February 28, 2016, 7:37 PM (IDT) In its worst Baghdad assaults for months, ISIS forces Sunday seized Iraqi military positions in Abu Ghraib on the western outskirts of Baghdad, killing at least ... Russia using Syria as testing ground for new weapons mikenova shared this story from www.washingtontimes.com stories: Security. Russia has been using the Syrian civil war to test some of its new weapons, as the West accuses Russian President Vladimir Putin of indiscriminate aerial bombardm... Two Bombings Kill Dozens at a Baghdad Market mikenova shared this story from NYT > Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). The Islamic State claimed responsibility on Sunday for two attacks at a market in the Sadr City district that killed at least 42 people. Slowly, Relentlessly, Chinas Military Expands Its Global Reach - Daily Beast mikenova shared this story from Cyber Warfare - Google News. Daily Beast Slowly, Relentlessly, Chinas Military Expands Its Global Reach Daily Beast China's new base in Djibouti can be seen as part of its policy in Africa and the Middle E... Same-sex couple share traditional Canadian Naval 'first kiss' for the first time mikenova shared this story from itnnews's YouTube Videos. From: itnnews Duration: 01:01 The Canadian Navy selected the first same-sex couple to share the traditional welcome home 'first kiss'. Report by Lydia Batham. - mikenova shared this story from Google. , , ... Chechnya leader Kadyrov says he will quit at end of term mikenova shared this story from Russia | The Guardian. Surprise announcement met with scepticism, with analysts saying the move is an attempt to be reappointed by Vladimir Putin Chechnyas leader, Ramzan Kadyrov, has vowed to stand down ... Syria's cease-fire frays as Russia resumes airstrikes - Washington Post mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Washington Post Syria's cease-fire frays as Russia resumes airstrikes Washington Post GAZIANTEP, Turkey Syria's hard-won truce began to fray Sunday, with Russian warplanes resuming ... - .RU mikenova shared this story from Google. .RU .RU - , ... Rescue Workers and Miners Are Killed in Russia Accident mikenova shared this story from NYT > Russia. Six rescue workers were killed on Sunday in a failed attempt to reach 26 stranded miners at a coal mine in Russia. The trapped miners were also declared dead. Putins Regime Under Pressure But Far from Doomed Atlantic Sentinel mikenova shared this story from Atlantic Sentinel. Alexander J. Motyl, an historian of Ukraine and the former Soviet Union, recently argued in Foreign Affairs magazine that Vladimir Putins regime is on the brink of collapse. He se... Russian power struggle: Could Putin lose his leverage over Moscow elite? - World mikenova shared this story . What crisis? When the going gets tough in Russia, the superwealthy go shopping. Moscows Rolls Royce dealership had its best year ever in 2014, helped by a sprint of sales in the last two wee... russian elites power struggle - Google Search mikenova shared this story . Stratfor: Cracks appear in Putin's Kremlin as the stress on Russia ... Fabius Maximus website (blog) - 6 hours ago The name Kremlin literally means fortress inside a city, a potent metaphor for ... Stratfor: Cracks appear in Putins Kremlin as the stress on Russia grows mikenova shared this story from Fabius Maximus website. ADVERTISEMENT Summary: We tend to see the complex politics of America but assume Putin rules a simple autocracy. Here Stratfor describes the fragile Russian state, under incredible ... Clinton Overwhelms Sanders in South Carolina Primary mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. Former U.S. secretary of state Hillary Clinton won a major victory Saturday over rival Bernie Sanders in the South Carolina primary, solidifying her status as the Democratic Party frontru... - mikenova shared this story from Google. , ... Clash in Russian Military Unit in Chechnya Involves Russians, Chechens and Daghestanis mikenova shared this story from Window on Eurasia -- New Series. Paul Goble Staunton, February 27 Although Russian and Chechen officials insist that there was no ethnic... Virginia Police Officer Shot, Killed on First Day on Duty mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. A police officer in the Eastern eastern U.S. state of Virginia was shot and killed Saturday afternoon during her first full day in uniform. Officer Ashley Guindon and two other officers w... IS Militants Hit Northern Iraq with Chemical Weapons: Kurdish Officials mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. Kurdish officials are working with the U.S.-led coalition to verify if Islamic State militants hit Kurdish peshmerga fighters with chemical weapons in the northern area of Sinjar. Dozens ... Syrian Cease-Fire in Effect, Some Violence Reported mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. The cease-fire in Syria that began Saturday has mostly held, but there have been some incidents of violence. 3 Stabbed in Clash Between KKK, Protesters in California mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. Three people were stabbed and 13 people arrested when members of a white separatist group clashed with a larger group of counter-demonstrators outside of Los Angeles Saturday, police said... : " " mikenova shared this story from SvobodaRadio's YouTube Videos. From: SvobodaRadio Duration: 08:04 . 27 ... - mikenova shared this story from SvobodaRadio's YouTube Videos. From: SvobodaRadio Duration: 05:02 - - http://www.svoboda.org/media/video/27578686.html Guns mostly fall silent on first day of Syrian ceasefire mikenova shared this story from Russia | The Guardian. Russian air raids stop and the truce seems to be holding for the most part across the country Guns mostly fell silent in Syria and Russian air raids stopped the first day of a cessat... Fragile Syria ceasefire enters second day mikenova shared this story from Russia | The Guardian. Airstrikes reported in Aleppo and Hama but partial cessation of hostilities appears broadly intact Syrias fragile ceasefire has entered its second day with reports of scattered airs... Guns fall silent in Syria - Reuters mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Reuters Guns fall silent in Syria Reuters Under the U.S.- Russian accord accepted by President Bashar al-Assad's government and many of his foes, fighting should cease so aid can reac... Here's What Happened in Russia on the First Anniversary of the Killing of Boris Nemtsov - VICE News mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. VICE News Here's What Happened in Russia on the First Anniversary of the Killing of Boris Nemtsov VICE News Exactly one year ago, Russian opposition leader and former deputy prime min... 'Global sherpa': Russia rooting for Hillary - WND.com mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. WND.com 'Global sherpa': Russia rooting for Hillary WND.com NEW YORK Russia's Vladimir Putin wants Donald Trump to lose the 2016 presidential race because he believes Russia would h... Syrian war: Russia reports nine truce violations - BBC News mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. BBC News Syrian war: Russia reports nine truce violations BBC News The truce in Syria has been violated nine times in the past 24 hours, says Russia , but is otherwise holding. A temp... Prawit: Russia, Belarus visits tighten cooperation - Bangkok Post mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Prawit: Russia , Belarus visits tighten cooperation Bangkok Post Deputy Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon said his visits to Russia and Belarus have tightened cooperation between Thaila... Coal mine blast in Russia kills 5 rescuers, no survivors among 26 miners trapped underground - RT mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. RT Coal mine blast in Russia kills 5 rescuers, no survivors among 26 miners trapped underground RT Another explosion has rocked a coal mine in Vorkuta, Russia , killing five people an... 'As long as Russia is our neighbor': Latvia wants to host NATO tanks ready for battle - RT mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. RT 'As long as Russia is our neighbor': Latvia wants to host NATO tanks ready for battle RT The suggestion appears to be against the spirit if not the letter of NATO's agreement with ... Russia's Batmobile: Putin inspects latest in cutting-edge combat vehicles (VIDEO) - RT mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. RT Russia's Batmobile: Putin inspects latest in cutting-edge combat vehicles (VIDEO) RT The latest addition to the Russian security services' arsenal comes in the form of a Batmobile.... Russia ends search for dozens of miners trapped in Arctic - Deutsche Welle mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Deutsche Welle Russia ends search for dozens of miners trapped in Arctic Deutsche Welle After days of search, however, Russian Emergencies Minister Vladimir Puchkov proclaimed that th... Assassination of Putin Critic Remembered in Moscow mikenova shared this story from NYT > Europe. Tens of thousands of people joined a solemn march on Saturday to commemorate the first anniversary of the assassination of Boris Y. Nemtsov, a Russian opposition leader. mikenova shared this story from RSS. , . Putin can cash in on Syria gains with cease-fire - Stars and Stripes mikenova shared this story from Putin - Google News. Stars and Stripes Putin can cash in on Syria gains with cease-fire Stars and Stripes MOSCOW Russian President Vladimir Putin has a chance to cash in on his gains in Syria by scaling ... Putin's Plans Beyond Ukraine into Syria - U.S. News & World Report mikenova shared this story from Putin - Google News. U.S. News & World Report Putin's Plans Beyond Ukraine into Syria U.S. News & World Report On the eve of a ceasefire agreement, U.S. news spoke with Agnia Grigas, author of "Bey... Russians march to preserve opposition in Vladimir Putin's stronghold - The Globe and Mail mikenova shared this story from Putin - Google News. The Globe and Mail Russians march to preserve opposition in Vladimir Putin's stronghold The Globe and Mail The guarding of the bridge reflects the defensive position Russia's beleaguer... Thousands march in Moscow to honor slain Kremlin critic Nemtsov - YouTube mikenova shared this story . Published on Feb 27, 2016 Thousands of Russians marched through Moscow to honor slain Kremlin critic Boris Nemtsov on Saturday, the first anniversary of his death. Nathan Frandino reports. Subscribe: http://s... Thousands march in Moscow to honor slain Kremlin critic Nemtsov mikenova shared this story from ReutersVideo's YouTube Videos. From: ReutersVideo Duration: 01:28 Thousands of Russians marched through Moscow to honor slain Kremlin critic Boris Nemtsov on Saturday, the first anniversary of his deat... Thousands join anti-nuclear weapons march in London mikenova shared this story from AFP's YouTube Videos. From: AFP Duration: 00:19 Thousands of people protest in central London against the renewal of Britain's nuclear weapons system Trident. Kansas community in mourning after shooting rampage mikenova shared this story from ReutersVideo's YouTube Videos. From: ReutersVideo Duration: 01:16 Hundreds attend a candlelight vigil in Hesston, Kansas, after a gunman killed three people and wounded 14 others in shooting spree. Jil... Kurds clash with police in southeast Turkey mikenova shared this story from ReutersVideo's YouTube Videos. From: ReutersVideo Duration: 01:02 Thousands of protesters clash with police in Turkey's southeast province of Diyarbakir as they denounce round-the-clock curfews in hist... Hillary is "single best change maker": Bill Clinton mikenova shared this story from ReutersVideo's YouTube Videos. From: ReutersVideo Duration: 01:12 Former president Bill Clinton encourages a crowd in Oklahoma to vote for his wife, Hillary, "because she's the single best change-maker... Enforcing Iran sanctions in the U.S. has harsh consequences mikenova shared this story from PBSNewsHour's YouTube Videos. From: PBSNewsHour Duration: 09:47 The U.S. has imposed hundreds of sanctions against Iran for more than 30 years to temper the country's nuclear ambitions. And even though... March In Moscow Honors Murdered Kremlin Critic Boris Nemtsov mikenova shared this story from rferlonline's YouTube Videos. From: rferlonline Duration: 01:05 Thousands of people marched in Moscow in honor of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov on the first anniversary of his murder. Marchers ch... Latvia wants greater NATO presence to offset Russia - USA TODAY mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. USA TODAY Latvia wants greater NATO presence to offset Russia USA TODAY WASHINGTON Latvia wants NATO to increase its security along Europe's eastern front to counter what it sees as... Russia Analysis mikenova shared this story from The Interpreter. Russia Analysis How Boris Nemtsov Was Murdered: Novaya Gazetas Investigation A number of different scenarios for how opposition leader Boris Nemtsov was assassinated on February 27, 2015 ... Gay Russian man sends powerful message to homophobes after beating mikenova shared this story from The Independent - Europe. A gay Russian man has sent a powerful messages to homophobes after being attacked for his sexuality - mikenova shared this story from SvobodaRadio's YouTube Videos. From: SvobodaRadio Duration: 07:04 1000 , . ... : mikenova shared this story from SvobodaRadio's YouTube Videos. From: SvobodaRadio Duration: 01:48 . ... Russian Expats Resent Overbearing Approach of Russian Embassies Abroad mikenova shared this story from Window on Eurasia -- New Series. Paul Goble Staunton, February 27 -- Many in the West view ethnic Russian diasporas as working hand in glo... Violence in Syria Abates on Day 1 of Cease-Fire mikenova shared this story from NYT > Islamic State in Iraq and Syria (ISIS). Fighting decreased significantly in the country following a truce brokered by the United States and Russia, despite reports of scattered violations. Puerto Rico braces for wave of mosquito-borne Zika virus mikenova shared this story from World. Leilani Dominicci has all the typical worries of pregnant women plus a new one spreading across Puerto Rico: the fear she will become infected with the Zika virus and put her baby at risk. Russia stops airstrikes in Syria ceasefire areas mikenova shared this story from World. A top military official says Russia has halted all airstrikes in areas of Syria where armed groups, including government forces, said they would abide by a cease-fire. UN: Syria talks to resume March 7 if truce largely holds mikenova shared this story from World. The United Nations special envoy for Syria said Friday he plans to resume peace talks on March 7 if a cessation of hostilities negotiated by the United States and Russia that began at midnight local... Guatemala convicts army officer in sexual abuse case mikenova shared this story from World. In a historic ruling, a Guatemalan court has convicted a former army officer and a former military commissioner for the sexual enslavement of women during the countrys civil war. It sentenced the m... Suicide Bombings in Afghanistan Kill at Least 26 mikenova shared this story . KABUL, Afghanistan Two separate suicide bombings in Afghanistan on Saturday left at least 26 people dead and nearly 50 injured, officials said, days ahead of expected talks between the government and ... Russia grounds its warplanes in Syria mikenova shared this story . Vladimir Isachenkov, Associated Press February 27, 2016 Updated: February 27, 2016 3:18am Photo: Alexander Zemlianichenko, AP Lt.-Gen. Sergei Rudskoy of the Russian Military General Staff, speaks to the media... Suicide Bomber Kills at Least 11 in Afghanistan mikenova shared this story from World TIME. ASADABAD, AfghanistanA suicide bomber killed an Afghan militia commander and at least 10 others in the eastern province of Kunar near the border with Pakistan on Saturday, officials sa... Russians Mark One Year Since Nemtsov's Murder mikenova shared this story from World News - Breaking international news and headlines | Sky News. A portrait of Kremlin critic Nemtsov and flowers are pictured at the site where he was killed on February 27, with St. Basil's Cathedral s... Syria Deal Has Little Chance Of Success mikenova shared this story from World News - Breaking international news and headlines | Sky News. For many Syrians the cessation is a rare glimmer of hope - even if they don't think it will last, at least it's something for now. Kosovo Parliament elects Hashim Thaci as new president - Daily Herald mikenova shared this story from World - Google News. Daily Herald Kosovo Parliament elects Hashim Thaci as new president Daily Herald Opposition lawmakers cover their eyes as smoke fills the auditorium of the Kosovo assembly after they r... UN Security Council Endorses Truce Deal for Syria - New York Times mikenova shared this story from World - Google News. New York Times UN Security Council Endorses Truce Deal for Syria New York Times UNITED NATIONS Against the backdrop of relentless airstrikes on rebel-held positions inside Syria, the... US Will Keep Warthog Flying to Combat Islamic State mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. The U.S. has put off the retirement of a 1970s era fighter plane, citing its effectiveness in the fight against the Islamic State military group among the reasons for keeping the jets fly... Ukraine Pressured by Corruption, Renewed Fighting mikenova shared this story from VOAvideo's YouTube Videos. From: VOAvideo Duration: 02:47 Two years ago, Ukraine's Maidan Revolution sought to do away with a corrupt oligarchy and put the country on the path toward a Western-style de... Truce halts most Syria fighting; Russia stops flights - Reuters mikenova shared this story from Top Stories - Google News. Reuters Truce halts most Syria fighting; Russia stops flights Reuters BEIRUT Fighting mostly stopped across western and northern Syria on Saturday and Russia halted its air raids... News Analysis: Syria Truce Comes With Price, but Not for Assad mikenova shared this story from NYT > World. A Syrian boy in a hospital bed on Friday. He was injured in Syrian government airstrikes on the rebel-held area of Douma, east of Damascus. A cease-fire went into effect at midnight. Suicide Bombing in Eastern Afghanistan Kills at Least 12 mikenova shared this story from NYT > World. The target of the attack Saturday in Kunar Province appeared to be a tribal elder who had orchestrated a local uprising against the Taliban. Russias opposition is still looking for who killed its leader mikenova shared this story from Europe. A year later, Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsovs contract killing remains unsolved. US military officials snub Russian Embassy - CNN mikenova shared this story from Cyber Warfare - Google News. CNN US military officials snub Russian Embassy CNN "They had a room set aside with photos of all their newest military equipment -- all kinds of their latest and greatest stuff... US: Sophisticated attackers hacked Ukrainian electric grid mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes News. An attack such as this one has long been a nightmare scenario for top U.S. officials. National Security Agency and U.S. Cyber Command chief Adm. Michael Rogers has previously warned... Attorney: Sailor charged with attempted murder found not guilty by 'lack of mental responsibility' mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes News. A sailor charged with attempted murder in the 2014 stabbing of another sailor at Portsmouth Naval Medical Center was found not guilty Friday by lack of mental responsibility, acco... Cyber hack got access to over 700,000 IRS accounts mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes. A 2015 cyber hack of the IRS potentially gained access to personal data from more than 700,000 taxpayer accounts, more than double the total previously estimated, the tax agency said Fri... Thousands of Russians Mark Anniversary of Opposition Leaders Murder mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. More than 20,000 Russians marched through central Moscow Saturday to honor the memory of opposition politician Boris Nemtsov, who was killed in the shadow of the Kremlin one year ago. Som... Relative calm in Syria despite numerous cease-fire breaches mikenova shared this story . The inside track on Washington politics. Be the first to know about new stories from PowerPost. Sign up to follow, and well e-mail you free updates as theyre published. Youll receive free... Trump being advised by ex-U.S. Lieutenant General who favors closer Russia ties mikenova shared this story . WASHINGTON Donald Trump is receiving foreign policy advice from a former U.S. military intelligence chief who wants the United States to work more closely with Russia to resolve global security issues, accord... U.S. military officials snub Russian Embassy mikenova shared this story . In a departure from tradition, representatives from both the U.S. military and NATO were no-shows. "They had a room set aside with photos of all their newest military equipment -- all kinds of their latest an... Nemtsovs Murder Anniversary, the Effects of Propaganda, and Putins "Useful Idiots" mikenova shared this story from Home - Institute of Modern Russia. In this weeks Western media highlights, Alina Polyakova explains in Foreign Policy why Vladimir Putins influence in Europe should neither be blamed on the EU nor taken ... Regime seeks Russia's backing - Bangkok Post mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Bangkok Post Regime seeks Russia's backing Bangkok Post Analysts believe with Russia's support, Thailand stands to gain more diplomatic leverage with the West led by the United States... The Russia-Armenia alliance is threatening Turkey, a critical US ally - Washington Post mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Washington Post The Russia -Armenia alliance is threatening Turkey, a critical US ally Washington Post The Feb. 21 front-page article For Turkey, high stakes as troubles intensify h... Trump being advised by ex-US Lieutenant General who favors closer Russia ties - Reuters mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Reuters Trump being advised by ex-US Lieutenant General who favors closer Russia ties Reuters The Trump campaign did not respond to a request for comment about Flynn. Flynn declined t... US, Russia-brokered cease-fire goes into effect across Syria - Washington Post mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Washington Post US, Russia -brokered cease-fire goes into effect across Syria Washington Post BEIRUT A cease-fire brokered by the United States and Russia went into effect across Sy... Nemtsovs Murder Anniversary, the Effects of Propaganda, and Putin mikenova shared this story from Institute of Modern Russia. Nemtsovs Murder Anniversary, the Effects of Propaganda, and Putins "Useful Idiots" 2026 February 26 February 2016 In this weeks Western media highlights, Alina Polyakova exp... . mikenova shared this story from SvobodaRadio's YouTube Videos. From: SvobodaRadio Duration: 02:59 . , - Pussy Riot. ... Deadly New Trend Developing in African Migration to Europe mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. The International Organization for Migration reports a sharp increase in the number of sub-Saharan Africans making the dangerous sea journey from Libya to Italy. But the organization says... Kadyrov Says It's Time For Him To Step Down mikenova shared this story from Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty. Kremlin-backed Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov has said he is ready to resign and that his "time has passed." , - mikenova shared this story from Google. , , 27 . //. , ... The impressive American high schooler who turned out to be a 23-year-old Ukrainian man mikenova shared this story . The inside track on Washington politics. Be the first to know about new stories from PowerPost. Sign up to follow, and well e-mail you free updates as theyre published. Youll receive free... / , mikenova shared this story from Latest Articles. 27 , | ... Temporary Syria truce nears, but fighting continues - CNN mikenova shared this story from World - Google News. CNN Temporary Syria Syria temporary truce nears, but fighting continues CNN (CNN) A main Syrian opposition group says it will respect a two-week truce that is due to start in the war-t... Syria temporary truce nears, but fighting continues - CNN mikenova shared this story from World - Google News. CNN Syria temporary truce nears, but fighting continues CNN (CNN) A main Syrian opposition group says it will respect a two-week truce that is due to start in the war-torn country Satu... Saudi Warplanes Land in Turkey for IS Mission mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. Four Saudi warplanes landed at Incirlik military base in Turkey on Friday to join the U.S-led Western coalition aerial raids against the Islamic State (IS) in Syria, Turkish officials and... Irish election: Sinn Fein poised to be third largest party as voters lash out at austerity mikenova shared this story from World news. Vote predicted to return hung parliament amid public anger at traditional parties of power, with Gerry Adams' party expected to be one of main beneficaries Europe Feels Urgency to Address Migrant Issue as Pressure, Radicalization Mount mikenova shared this story from VOAvideo's YouTube Videos. From: VOAvideo Duration: 02:36 Fear in Europe is spreading as more than 40 suspected jihadists posing as Syrian refugees were caught entering Europe. Nineteen were captured i... Philip Chism sentenced to at least 40 years in prison - The Boston Globe mikenova shared this story from Top Stories - Google News. The Boston Globe Philip Chism sentenced to at least 40 years in prison The Boston Globe SALEM - Philip D. Chism was sentenced Friday to serve at least 40 years in state prison fo... Girl in wheelchair sits silently at shut Macedonian border for hours mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. IDOMENI, Greece (Reuters) - Wheelchair-bound Zhino Hasan, 17, sat silently and alone for most of Friday in front of a closed border gate, hoping that Macedonia would relent and allow h... Who Was Artur Samarin? Ukrainian Man Arrested For Posing As U.S. High School Student mikenova shared this story from Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty. Many people are scratching their heads trying to figure out how a Ukrainian citizen on a temporary visa to the United States was able to pose as a high school student for... Russia committed not to attack moderate Syrian groups: U.S. official mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Russia has committed not to launch strikes against Syrian groups the United States considers to be part of the moderate opposition, the U.S. State Department sai... Republican Party Identity Questioned as Rubio, Cruz Attack Trump mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. Two wings of a divided Republican party have focused the most intense attacks to date on frontrunner Donald Trump in a last-chance bid to stop the billionaire businessman's momentum befor... Argentine judge summons Fernandez for questioning in fraud probe mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. BUENOS AIRES (Reuters) - An Argentine judge has summoned former President Cristina Fernandez for questioning in a probe into the sale of dollar future contracts at below market rates b... Pencils and rankings: Its time for an Irish-style election mikenova shared this story from World. Ireland is voting for a new government Friday, but the country might not know the full official results until Monday and the government wont take shape until next month, if one can even be formed... February 26, 2016 mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. A look at the best news photos from around the world. The IRS Hack Was Twice as Bad as We Thought - The Atlantic mikenova shared this story from Top Stories - Google News. The Atlantic The IRS Hack Was Twice as Bad as We Thought The Atlantic On Friday, for the second time in six months, the Internal Revenue Service revised its estimate of the scale... Why Hillary Clinton's Privacy Can't Be Invaded - Bloomberg mikenova shared this story from Top Stories - Google News. Bloomberg Why Hillary Clinton's Privacy Can't Be Invaded Bloomberg Not because people don't keep tryingbecause her armor, developed over decades in public life, keeps her unknow... Syria truce agreement takes effect mikenova shared this story from BBC News - World. A landmark temporary truce comes into effect in Syria as the UN announces the possible resumption of peace talks. Jobs, Health-care Access Weigh Heavy on African-American Voters mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. All eyes are on the Democratic primary in South Carolina, where the African-American vote takes center stage for the first time in the U.S. presidential race. Nearly a third of the state'... Questions Nag in Sweden 30 Years After Leaders Assassination mikenova shared this story from NYT > World. The unsolved shooting of Prime Minister Olof Palme in 1986 was a watershed moment in history that continues to fascinate and haunt the country. The Latest: Cease-fire goes into effect across Syria - Washington Post mikenova shared this story from World - Google News. Washington Post The Latest: Cease-fire goes into effect across Syria Washington Post BEIRUT The Latest on the conflict in Syria and the provisional cease-fire proposed by the U.S. an... The Sentencing of a Toddler Shows How Out of Control Egypts Security State Has Become mikenova shared this story from World TIME. A military court mistakenly sentences a toddler to life in prison. A police officer shoots a driver dead on a busy Cairo street. A judge sends a writer to jail over salacious scenes in a nove... Egyptian Court Convicts Four Teens for Mocking Muslim Prayers mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. A court in Egypt has convicted four Coptic teenagers for contempt of Islam after they appeared in a short video mocking Muslim prayers. The mobile phone video, which went viral in April 2... A cease-fire brokered by the US and Russia has come into effect across Syria, but IS and Nusra Front are excluded mikenova shared this story from World. A cease-fire brokered by the US and Russia has come into effect across Syria, but IS and Nusra Front are excluded. Fragile Ceasefire Takes Effect in Syria, but Not for ISIS mikenova shared this story from World TIME. (BEIRUT)A cease-fire brokered by the US and Russia has come into effect across Syria, but ISIS and al-Qaedas branch in Syria, the Nusra Front, are excluded. The cease-fire aims ... Iran votes in first elections since landmark nuclear deal mikenova shared this story from World. Indication of high turnout could mean a boost for moderates and reformists aligned with President Rouhani. Syria cessation of hostilities agreement comes into effect mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. BEIRUT (Reuters) - A cessation of hostilities in Syria came into effect at the agreed time of midnight on Saturday (2200 GMT Friday), under a U.S.-Russian plan which warring sides in t... Five dead in America's third mass shooting in a week mikenova shared this story from World news. A man killed his family of four before turning his gun on himself in a standoff with police 70 miles west of Seattle China's high-speed sexual revolution mikenova shared this story from BBC News - World. China's high-speed sexual revolution Handover of Oil Assets to Chechen Authorities: Start of Devolution of Power in Russia? mikenova shared this story from North Caucasus Analysis - The Jamestown Foundation. Chechnya is gearing up to establish control over its oil-extracting business. The procedure for handing over the Rosneft affiliate Chechenneftekhimprom t... Apple vs. FBI: How Far Can The Government Go In The Name Of 'National Security'? - Forbes mikenova shared this story from fbi - Google News. Forbes Apple vs. FBI : How Far Can The Government Go In The Name Of 'National Security'? Forbes The FBI and Apple are locked in a legal struggle that will very likely end up in front of ... Apple's Tim Cook to shareholders: Taking on the FBI is the right thing to do - Los Angeles Times mikenova shared this story from fbi - Google News. Los Angeles Times Apple's Tim Cook to shareholders: Taking on the FBI is the right thing to do Los Angeles Times Apple Inc. Chief Executive Tim Cook defended his hard-line stance against... Court says terrorism victims can collect $2.8M award to Iran mikenova shared this story from www.washingtontimes.com stories: Security. SAN FRANCISCO (AP) - A federal appeals court says 10 terrorist attack victims who won financial claims against Iran can seize a $2.8 million judgment owed to that... Really understanding Apple's legal brief in the FBI case - The Verge mikenova shared this story from fbi - Google News. The Verge Really understanding Apple's legal brief in the FBI case The Verge The fight between Apple and the FBI over the security protections on the San Bernadino iPhone has been fierce... Two Marines Brutally Attacked in D.C. on Same Day mikenova shared this story from Washington Free Beacon. Two Marines were attacked in the nations capital earlier this month, though police believe that the two incidents are unrelated. A veteran Marine was assaulted and robbed by a pair... An unlikely normalcy prevails in the Syrian capital mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes News. The serenity of the capital's historic Marjeh Square reflects the adaptability of Syrians and resilience of human nature. It also underscores the strategically important success of ... UN peacekeeper shoots dead 2 colleagues in northern Mali mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes News. The U.N. peacekeeping mission in Mali says a peacekeeper has shot dead two colleagues in what has been called a "settling of scores." Anti-Putin Opposition Marks Nemtsov's Death Amid Fear and Apathy mikenova shared this story . A year after the assassination of Russian opposition leader Boris Nemtsov, beleaguered anti-Kremlin activists are seeking to overcome repression and apathy to challenge President Vladimir Putin as parliamenta... The road to Aleppo: how the West misread Putin over Syria mikenova shared this story . BEIRUT/WASHINGTON/MOSCOW Last July, Syrian President Bashar al-Assad seemed to be losing his battle against rebel forces. Speaking to supporters in Damascus, he acknowledged his army's heavy losses. Western o... Putin can cash in on Syria gains with cease-fire mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes News. Russian President Vladimir Putin has a chance to cash in on his gains in Syria by scaling down his bombing blitz when a cease-fire takes effect Friday night so he can emerge as a pe... Baltic countries want a longer NATO commitment to counter Russia mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes News. NATO's eastern-flank members are lobbying for a long-term alliance commitment to increased military forces in their countries, along with authority for those forces to respond quick... Opposition Report on Ramzan Kadyrov Breaks No New Ground mikenova shared this story from North Caucasus Analysis - The Jamestown Foundation. The Russian opposition promised to deliver a groundbreaking report on Chechnya by Ilya Yashin, the deputy chairman of the Svoboda-Parnas party, long befo... The U.S. Military Is Flexing Its Muscles in a Warning to Russia and North Korea - Maxim mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Maxim The U.S. Military Is Flexing Its Muscles in a Warning to Russia and North Korea Maxim A few days later, Russia ' foreign minister threatened that any Western intervention in Syr... If you showed no interest in Syria, don't complain about Russia - Washington Post (blog) mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Washington Post (blog) If you showed no interest in Syria, don't complain about Russia Washington Post (blog) Cruz, who has announced repeatedly that we had no interest in Syria (even... Russia in Review mikenova shared this story from Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs - US-Russia Initiative to Prevent Nuclear Terrorism. February 26, 2016 Russia in Review: a digest of useful news from U.S.-Russia Initiative to Prevent N... The Power Vertical Podcast: The Nemtsov Legacy mikenova shared this story from The Interpreter. The Power Vertical Podcast: The Nemtsov Legacy He was a young pathbreaking provincial governor in the heady days following the Soviet collapse. He was a reformist deputy prime minister, an... Syrian ceasefire begins but US expecting violations mikenova shared this story from Russia | The Guardian. Complex ceasefire arrangement agreed by Russia and US, which excludes large areas of country, to come into force at midnight A fragile, temporary and partial cessation of hostilities... Russia imposes new rules on journalists covering elections - Washington Times mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Washington Times Russia imposes new rules on journalists covering elections Washington Times Russia's Interfax news agency reported that lawmakers passed an amendment Friday imposing ... Ex-Michigan lawmakers face felony charges over affair - Washington Post mikenova shared this story from Top Stories - Google News. CBS Local Ex-Michigan lawmakers face felony charges over affair Washington Post LANSING, Mich. Two former Michigan lawmakers were charged on Friday with felony misconduct in of... Amid Iraqi Chaos, Moktada al-Sadr, an Old Provocateur, Returns mikenova shared this story from NYT > World. Mr. Sadr, a cleric whose command of the Iraqi Shiite street is unmatched, is ostensibly lending support to Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi. Iran Is Complying With Nuclear Deal mikenova shared this story from Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty. The UN atomic watchdog says Iran is complying with the commitments it made under last year's landmark nuclear deal. Gunmen Attack Hotel in Somali Capital mikenova shared this story from World TIME. (MOGADISHU) Gunmen from the Islamic extremist group al-Shabab forced their way into a hotel in the Somali capital of Mogadishu, a police official said Friday. A suicide bomber rammed ... In Syria, Airstrikes Continue as Truce Nears mikenova shared this story from NYT > Russia. A provisional cease-fire negotiated by the United States and Russia excluded the Islamic State and the Nusra Front, but it was unclear what other groups would honor it. LGBT in Russia: Legal Circuses - EurasiaNet mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. LGBT in Russia : Legal Circuses EurasiaNet On July 24, 2013, less than a month after Vladimir Putin had signed an anti-gay propaganda law, Alexey Davydov, an LGBT activist, was arrest... EU pulls plug on kettle rules to stem UK heat mikenova shared this story from Europe News. Plans to ban high-powered appliances shelved until vote Russia 50% ahead on rearmament target as U.S. shrinks its military to smallest since WWII - Washington Times mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Washington Times Russia 50% ahead on rearmament target as U.S. shrinks its military to smallest since WWII Washington Times FILE - In this Sunday, July 26, 2015 file pool photo, Russi... Nuke Test: The Missile Is the Message - the Pentagon Hopes mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. Like a giant pen stroke in the sky, an unarmed Minuteman 3 nuclear missile roared out of its underground bunker on the California coastline Thursday and soared over the Pacific, inscribin... . ? mikenova shared this story from SvobodaRadio's YouTube Videos. From: SvobodaRadio Duration: 00:00 , . ... mikenova shared this story from golosamerikius's YouTube Videos. From: golosamerikius Duration: 00:53 . , Russia to Continue Air Strikes During Syria Cease-fire mikenova shared this story from The Moscow Times Top Stories. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has announced that the Russian Air Force will continue its counterterrorism air strikes in Syria during the cease-fire, the state-run TASS news... New Study Suggests We Are Alone in Universe mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. Since the universe is so huge, most astronomers think that there must be a planet, somewhere out there, similar to Earth. But a computer model created at Swedens Uppsala University says ... NY Air Guard unit helping stranded South Pole researchers mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes News. A New York-based Air National Guard unit on its annual mission to the South Pole is being called on to assist Australians who got stranded when their research ship ran aground on An... UN agency report shows Iran mostly complying with nuke deal mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes News. Iranian nuclear activities that could be turned into making weapons have remained at agreed reduced levels since a deal between Tehran and six world powers was implemented last mont... The Latest: Ford's Facebook page includes photos of weapons mikenova shared this story from AP Top News at 1:27 p.m. EST. HESSTON, Kan. (AP) -- The Latest on the attack at a central Kansas factory (all times local):... Trump Endorsed By Former White House Contender mikenova shared this story from World News - Breaking international news and headlines | Sky News. New Jersey Governor Chris Christie has endorsed Donald Trump for president - the first major party figure to back the billionaire. The Latest: New Jersey's Christie endorses Donald Trump mikenova shared this story from AP Top News at 1:27 p.m. EST. HOUSTON (AP) -- The Latest on the race for president ahead of Super Tuesday, the biggest single-day delegate haul of the nomination contests (all times local):... Hezbollah signals no end to Saudi crisis; central bank reassures on currency mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. BEIRUT (Reuters) - Hezbollah indicated there would be no apology to Saudi Arabia over Lebanon's decision not to condemn attacks on Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran, signaling no quick... Police: Gunmen attack hotel in Somali capital mikenova shared this story from World. A Somali police official says gunmen have forced their way into a hotel in the Somali capital of Mogadishu. In Damascus, a uniquely Syrian version of normalcy prevails mikenova shared this story from World. A uniquely Syrian version of normalcy prevails in the heart of Damascus, where a mix of rural refugees and urbanites conduct their daily business and enjoy the easy cafe culture to the muffled sound... Election of Syria, Venezuela to Leadership Posts on UN Committee Sparks Outrage mikenova shared this story from Washington Free Beacon. A Jewish human rights group criticized the election of Syria and Venezuela to leadership posts on a United Nations committee focused on human rights, calling it evidence of the hyp... SOF vs. Boko Haram; New USAF bomber gets a name; COCOMs will get a rethink; Senators slam Force of the Future ... - Defense One mikenova shared this story from james b. comey - Google News. Defense One SOF vs. Boko Haram; New USAF bomber gets a name; COCOMs will get a rethink; Senators slam Force of the Future ... Defense One Wisely choosing to move past the unwi... Treasury Fails To Name Any Cyber Worst Actors For Economic Sanctions - Daily Caller mikenova shared this story from Cyber Warfare - Google News. Treasury Fails To Name Any Cyber Worst Actors For Economic Sanctions Daily Caller A vacuum the size of cyberspace . That unfortunately describes the long awaited but non-existe... Another poll shows the American people are siding with the FBI over Apple - BGR mikenova shared this story from fbi - Google News. BGR Another poll shows the American people are siding with the FBI over Apple BGR If you watched the Republican debate last night on CNN, you saw every potential presidential candidate t... MSF: U.S. payments to victims of Kunduz hospital bombing inadequate 'sorry money' mikenova shared this story from www.washingtontimes.com stories: Security. The U.S. military is paying hundreds of thousands of dollars to wounded survivors and relatives of 42 people killed when an American AC-130 gunship attacked a cha... Feds seize 2.5 tons of marijuana at Nogales crossing point mikenova shared this story from www.washingtontimes.com stories: Security. NOGALES, Ariz. (AP) - Federal officers found and seized 2 tons of marijuana in boxes in a tractor-trailer rig being inspected as it entered the United States at ... A Palestinian striking out with a knife killed by Israeli soldiers mikenova shared this story from DEBKAFile. February 26, 2016, 6:26 PM (IDT) The attack was thwarted by soldiers at the Beit El checkpoint Friday afternoon. Beit Eil dwellers were advised to stay indoors while the soldiers checked to see&... No passage for Afghans on Balkan route into West Europe mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes. Suddenly, Afghans appear to be the new pariahs of Europe. Despite fleeing attacks in their homeland from the Taliban and alleged Islamic State militants, their quest for a safer life is ... Is Pension Overhaul A Raw Deal For Career Military? - Forbes mikenova shared this story from Cyber Warfare - Google News. Forbes Is Pension Overhaul A Raw Deal For Career Military ? Forbes Taking a page from the private sector, Congress is cutting the guaranteed defined benefit pension plan for se... Oil prices hit four-week high mikenova shared this story from DEBKAFile. February 26, 2016, 6:31 PM (IDT) The price of West Texas Intermediate crude oil, the U.S. benchmark, rose 3.2% to $34.13. The price of Brent crude, the global benchmark, rose 3.8%... On Nuclear Weapons, Hill Shows Bipartisan Support mikenova shared this story from Defense News - Home. There does not seem to be much opposition on the Hill to plans to modernize the nuclear triad, at least not yet. The State Departments Records and Response Problems Are Not New, Theyre Systemic mikenova shared this story from Just Security. Andy Wright The State Departments records management, FOIA compliance, and oversight responsiveness have endured withering scrutiny in court and on Capitol Hill since disclosure of Hillary ... White House moves to expand 'sharing intelligence between NSA, FBI and CIA' - International Business Times UK mikenova shared this story from cia - Google News. International Business Times UK White House moves to expand 'sharing intelligence between NSA, FBI and CIA ' International Business Times UK Up until this point, the NSA experts have fil... Top Dems Outraged Over Obama Efforts to Ignore Pro-Israel Provisions mikenova shared this story from Washington Free Beacon. Leading Democrats are taking aim at the Obama administration for its opposition to newly passed legislation that aims to bolster the U.S.-Israel economic relationship and combat boy... Russia is not an enemy, said Israels Air Defense Commander mikenova shared this story from DEBKAFile. February 26, 2016, 7:20 PM (IDT) Brig. Gen. Tzvika Haimovich, commander of Israels Air Defense Forces, told reporters Thursday that Russian aircraft had violated Israeli air space at leas... Chris Christie Endorses Donald Trump mikenova shared this story from Washington Free Beacon. New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie announced he was endorsing Donald Trump for the 2016 Republican presidential nomination on Friday. The post Chris Christie Endorses Donald Trump appea... Al Qaeda in Syria calls for more fighting as deadline nears - Reuters mikenova shared this story from Top Stories - Google News. Reuters Al Qaeda in Syria calls for more fighting as deadline nears Reuters BEIRUT/MOSCOW Syria's branch of al Qaeda, one of its most powerful Islamist rebel groups, called for a... Suspicion And Indifference In Moscow One Year After Nemtsov Killing mikenova shared this story from Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty. One year ago, Boris Nemtsov, an opposition politician and vocal critic of President Vladimir Putin, was shot dead near the Kremlin. Five suspects have been charged in the... Russia carries out 'intense' air strikes in Syria just hours before planned ceasefire mikenova shared this story from World news. Moscow strikes seek to help the Assad regime make further gains before the ceasefire takes hold Haitian economist nominated as PM under interim government mikenova shared this story from World. The former governor of Haitis central bank has been nominated to be the countrys new prime minister in an interim government. Putin warns of election interference mikenova shared this story from BBC News - World. President Vladimir Putin warns that Russia's "foes abroad" are preparing to interfere in the country's September general election. U.S. becoming more careful in YPG ties: Turkey presidential spokesman mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. ANKARA (Reuters) - The United States is becoming more careful in its ties with Syrian Kurdish YPG fighters and Ankara has seen some changes in attitude from Washington about the relati... 13 Takeaways from Ilya Yashins Kadyrov Report mikenova shared this story from Institute of Modern Russia. 13 Takeaways from Ilya Yashins Kadyrov Report 25 February 2016 On February 23, Ilya Yashin presented his long-anticipated report entitled Threat to National Security exposing... Oil Prices Rally As Russia, Saudis To Meet - RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. TASS Oil Prices Rally As Russia , Saudis To Meet RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty Oil prices jumped by more than 2 percent on February 25 after Venezuela said top oil producers Russia and... - mikenova shared this story from Google. , ... - .RU mikenova shared this story from Google. .RU .RU ... How Putin Tried and Failed To Crush Dissent in Russia - Newsweek mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. Newsweek How Putin Tried and Failed To Crush Dissent in Russia Newsweek Anti Putin Protest Russia Opposition activists and supporters take part in an anti-Putin protest in Saint Peter... Self-Publishing Taking Off in Russia mikenova shared this story from Window on Eurasia -- New Series. Paul Goble Staunton, February 26 Some three million Russians want to self-publish their books, accordin... The Power Vertical Podcast: The Nemtsov Legacy - February 26, 2016 mikenova shared this story from The Power Vertical - Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty. Boris Nemtsov represents Russia's road not taken. What is his legacy one year after his death? Listen to this week's Power Vertical Podcast. Download... NATO Commander Breedlove: Russia Cast Itself as West's Adversary mikenova shared this story from The Moscow Times Top Stories. NATO Supreme Allied Commander Philip Breedlove said Thursday that Russia has chosen to become an adversary to the West as Moscow tries to reestablish its global influence, and... Putin: 'Foreign Enemies' Plan To Interfere In Elections mikenova shared this story from Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty. Russian President Vladimir Putin claims Western countries are getting ready to interfere in the parliamentary elections scheduled for this fall. US payments to Afghans in clinic attack called inadequate mikenova shared this story from www.washingtontimes.com stories: Security. KABUL, Afghanistan (AP) - The U.S. military is paying hundreds of thousands of dollars to wounded survivors and relatives of the 42 Afghans killed when an America... James Clapper says 'jury's out' on Chinese cyber pact mikenova shared this story from www.washingtontimes.com stories: Security. U.S. Director of National Intelligence James Clapper told lawmakers on Thursday that despite the cyber pact, it remains to be seen whether China has retired from ... Feds Flag Thousands of Illegal Bernie Sanders Contributions mikenova shared this story from Washington Free Beacon. Thousands of contributions to Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders campaign in January violated federal campaign finance laws, election regulators said on Thursday. The... LEADERSHIP: Russia Shows How It Is Done mikenova shared this story from StrategyPage.com. None DOD launches aggressive cyberwar against Islamic State mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes. The U.S. military has launched a newly aggressive campaign of cyberattacks against Islamic State militants, targeting the group's abilities to use social media and the Internet to recrui... US will be 'relentless' against Islamic State during Syrian cease-fire, Obama says mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes. President Barack Obama said the United States would be "relentless" in its pursuit of Islamic State militants even after a cease-fire agreement goes into effect in Syria on Saturday. Who's flying drones over submarine base? Navy wants to know mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes. A Navy employee spotted a drone earlier this month flying in prohibited airspace over Naval Base Kitsap-Bangor, home to eight Trident nuclear-armed submarines. The Feb. 8 sighting was co... Obama could taunt the Senate as Roosevelt did mikenova shared this story from Stars and Stripes. President Franklin Roosevelt calculated that the Senate would have no choice but to confirm Hugo Black. The reason was simple. Black was a senator, and the Senate was the ultimate gentle... Review Cooperation and Drug Polices in the Americas mikenova shared this story from international drug trafficking organizations - Google Blog Search. A central idea of the book is that countries must work together through multilateral frameworks to resolve drug trafficking ... US, Russian spies often cooperate despite differences, says CIA director mikenova shared this story from intelNews.org. Russia is being very aggressive toward the United States, but cooperation on counter-terrorism between Moscow and Washington is highly active despite the differences between them, accord... Jihadists Are Selling CIA-Supplied Weapons On Facebook | Zero ... mikenova shared this story from cia - Google Blog Search. A Facebook page called "The first weapons market in the Idleb countryside" which showcases posts with photographs of weapons, claimed to be CIA -supplied, inviting buyers to conta... Argentine Prosecutor Says Peer Was Murdered mikenova shared this story from WSJ.com: World News. A federal prosecutor in Argentina said his former colleague, Alberto Nisman, was murdered last year after accusing then-President Cristina Kirchner of trying to sabotage Mr. Nismans i... Terror Group Complicates Syrian Cease-Fire mikenova shared this story from WSJ.com: World News. The cease-fires exclusion of the al Qaeda-linked Nusra Front, whose militants often mix with more moderate rebels, will make it difficult to maintain a peace between the Assad regime ... Fighting Rages in Syria on Eve of Partial Cease-Fire mikenova shared this story from WSJ.com: World News. Government forces capture several villages from Islamic State fighters in northern Aleppo province, state-run media and an opposition monitoring group say. Saudi Arabia is reeling from falling oil prices. And it could get much worse. mikenova shared this story from World. Citizens are wary of their ailing economy and even more so of austerity. The Latest: Albania wont take migrants blocked in Greece mikenova shared this story from World. The Latest on the flow of migrants into Europe (all times local): Europe in Turmoil as Leaders Struggle to Control Migrant Situation mikenova shared this story from World TIME. The European Union (E.U.) could be on the cusp of a massive humanitarian catastrophe as leaders stumble in their efforts to regulate the flow of migrants crossing its borders from the Mediter... Coming Weeks Will Be Critical to Syrias Future, Obama Says mikenova shared this story from World TIME. The next few weeks, including a two-week cease-fire ceasefire set to begin on Friday, will be critical to Syrias future, according to President Obama. Obama said the truce would only suc... Moldova's Gagauzian Minority Caught Between Russia, Turkey and EU mikenova shared this story from VOAvideo's YouTube Videos. From: VOAvideo Duration: 02:06 Russia's fall-out with Turkey over the downing of a Russian warplane and support for opposing sides in Syria has sparked fears of a wider confl... Russia bombs Syria ahead of 'ceasefire' mikenova shared this story from BBC News - World. Russia continues to bomb "terrorists" in Syria before of a cessation of hostilities due to come into effect, but denies targeting rebel strongholds. UN soldier kills own commander in Mali mikenova shared this story from BBC News - World. The UN in Mali launches an inquiry into a "revenge attack" after a Chadian soldier opens fire inside a UN base, killing his commander and a doctor. Kurds say investigating suspected Islamic State chemical attack in Iraq mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. ERBIL (Reuters) - Kurdish authorities said on Friday they were investigating a suspected chemical attack by Islamic State militants against peshmerga fighters in northwestern Iraq this... Obama Warns Russia 'World Will Be Watching' For Syrian Truce mikenova shared this story from Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty. U.S. President Barack Obama warned Russia that the "world will be watching" whether it complies with an agreed cessation of hostilities in Syria due to begin on February 27. U.S. Advises Wall Street Not To Participate In Russian Bond Sale mikenova shared this story from Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty. The U.S. government has advised top Wall Street firms not to participate in a Russian bond sale to avoid counteracting U.S. sanctions on Moscow, media sources report. rep... Kerry Estimates $50 Billion 'Windfall' From Lifting Iran Sanctions mikenova shared this story from Radio Free Europe / Radio Liberty. U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry repeated the department's estimate that Iran will receive a windfall of only about $50 billion from the lifting of economic sanctions, ... Treasury Official Urges Solution for Puerto Rico mikenova shared this story from NYT > World. Antonio Weiss, counselor to the Treasury secretary, Jacob Lew, told the House Natural Resources Committee that time was running out for Puerto Rico. Syria peace talks may restart March 7 in Geneva: Russian official mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. MOSCOW (Reuters) - International talks to resolve the Syria crisis may restart in Geneva on March 7, a Russian Foreign Ministry official said on condition of anonymity on Friday. Syria war rages hours before deal to halt fighting mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. BEIRUT (Reuters) - Heavy air strikes were reported to have hit rebel-held areas to the east of Damascus as fighting continued across much of western Syria on Friday, hours before a U.S... In oil crisis, Azerbaijan leader is hostage to father's legacy mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. MOSCOW (Reuters) - If Azerbaijan's leader Ilham Aliyev is to steer his oil exporting state out of its economic crisis, he will have to show a resolve not in evidence during his privile... Man sought by Israel dies at Palestinian mission in Bulgaria mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. SOFIA (Reuters) - A Palestinian who escaped from Israeli custody after being convicted of a 1986 murder has died at the Palestinian embassy in Sofia, Bulgarian prosecutors said on Friday. Putin to spy service: Defend Russian elections from foreign foes mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. MOSCOW (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin said on Friday he had seen specific intelligence suggesting Russia's foreign enemies were preparing for parliamentary elections later this y... kansas shooter - Google Search mikenova shared this story . Kansas Shooter Issued Restraining Order Before Killings, Cops Say ABC News - 2 hours ago Cedric Larry Ford, who allegedly killed three people and injured 14 others Thursday before police killed him, had been ... attacks on us military personnel inside us - Google Search mikenova shared this story . Major general says security 'adequate' at Army reserve centers WFAA.com - 12 hours ago Major general says security 'adequate' at Army reserve centers .... The Early Edition: February 26, 2016 mikenova shared this story from Just Security. Nadia O'Mara Before the start of business, Just Security provides a curated summary of up-to-the-minute developments at home and abroad. Heres todays news. IRAQ and SYRIA Deadline for ce... - Ahrar al-Sham says bombed Russia officers near Latakia mikenova shared this story . A powerful Islamist rebel faction has claimed it bombed a gathering of Russian officers near Syrias Latakia on February 21, the same day reports emerged of a mystery blast in the area. Ahrar al-S... Today's Headlines and Commentary mikenova shared this story from Lawfare - Hard National Security Choices. As the battle between Apple and the FBI continues, today, Apple filed a motion to vacate the order from the federal government to assist the FBI in accessing the ... Republican Candidates Squabble Over Immigration, Foreign Policy mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. The latest debate among Republican candidates for the U.S. presidency Thursday turned into a shouting match as the candidates tackled issues such as illegal immigration, U.S. policy in th... Republican debate sees Marco Rubio out-peck Ted Cruz for Donald Trump table scraps mikenova shared this story from News | Mail Online. Marco Rubio, the young and feisty Floridian who would be president, out-debated the rest of the remaining Republican presidential field Thursday night in a performance that probably won... Apple Asks Court to Reverse Order to Unlock iPhone mikenova shared this story from Voice of America. Apple has filed a motion in court asking a federal magistrate to reverse her order that the company help the FBI hack into a killer's locked iPhone. The computer giant rejected the govern... Obama on ISIS fight: "I am confident that we will prevail" - CBS News mikenova shared this story from Top Stories - Google News. CBS News Obama on ISIS fight: "I am confident that we will prevail" CBS News President Obama said Thursday that the coalition to fight ISIS is in a better position now ... U.S. government concludes cyber attack caused Ukraine power outage mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - A December power outage in Ukraine affecting 225,000 customers was the result of a cyber attack, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said Thursday, marking ... U.N. agency wants speedier aircraft threat warnings: sources mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. MONTREAL (Reuters) - The U.N.'s aviation agency wants to cut the time it takes to issue warnings about credible threats to aircraft on a website it launched after the 2014 downing of a... Obama says U.S. will prevail in fight against Islamic State mikenova shared this story from Reuters: World News. WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. President Barack Obama on Thursday expressed confidence that the United States would prevail in its fight against the Islamic State, but said that an end to... putin's revenge - Google Search mikenova shared this story . https://books.google.com/books?isbn=1780881142 Chris Hutchins - 2012 - Preview 13. Putin's . Revenge . COMFORTAB... FBI professionals 'will be angry' if no indictment recommendation is made - Hot Air mikenova shared this story from fbi - Google News. FBI professionals 'will be angry' if no indictment recommendation is made Hot Air In a story published Thursday, Catherine Herridge of Fox News added incrementally to what we know about ... Top US commander: Russia wants to 'rewrite' international order - The Hill mikenova shared this story from Russia - Google News. RadioFreeEurope/RadioLiberty Top US commander: Russia wants to 'rewrite' international order The Hill The era of trying to work with Russia is over, the top U.S. commander in Europe s... We Just Found Out The Real Reason The FBI Wants A Backdoor ... mikenova shared this story from fbi - Google Blog Search. On the face of it, The FBI vs Apple - the feverish momentum of American technocracy accelerating into the cavernous Orwellian entrenchment of the surveillance state - boils down t... Judge Confirms Carnegie Mellon Hacked Tor and Provided Info to FBI mikenova shared this story from fbi - Google Blog Search. A rumor has been circulating for a while that researchers at Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) provided information to the FBI , which led to the feds identifying Tor users linked ... Obama administration, FBI must act to restore US government's ... mikenova shared this story from fbi - Google Blog Search. Obama administration, FBI must act to restore US government's credibility in Apple's encryption debate. By Daniel Eran Dilger Thursday, February 25, 2016, 09:10 am PT (12:10 pm ET... Early Warning System in Sinai mikenova shared this story from Intelligence Analysis and Reporting. Title: Early W arning S ystem in Sinai Author: United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Foreign Relations, 94 th Cong., 1 st s... Santae A. Tribble, right, seen with his son Santae Tribble Jr. in 2011, served 28 years in prison for a crime he didnt commit due to a flawed hair analysis by the FBI. (Mark Gail/The Washington Post) A D.C. Superior Court judge has ordered the District government to pay $13.2 million to Santae A. Tribble, who was jailed for 28 years after being wrongfully convicted of killing a Southeast Washington taxi driver in 1978. The award Friday brings to $39 million the damages amount the city has been ordered or agreed to pay over the past year to three District men wrongly imprisoned for decades. They were convicted at trial through exaggerated claims about the reliability of FBI forensic hair matches, a pattern uncovered by the D.C. Public Defender Service and featured in a series of articles in The Washington Post. Tribble, 55, was exonerated in 2012 after DNA testing revealed that he could not have contributed hairs found in a stocking near the scene of the crime, in which the attacker reportedly wore a stocking mask. At trial, an FBI examiner testified that the hairs microscopically matched Tribbles, and prosecutors suggested to the jury that it would be a 1 in 10 million coincidence if the hairs came from someone else. The jury convicted him in January 1980. Tribble and his son walk in the block 3100 of Massachusetts Avenue SE, where the elder Tribble was arrested and wrongfully convicted at age 17. (Mark Gail/The Washington Post) Tribbles case and the others helped trigger a federal review that in April disclosed that FBI examiners systematically overstated testimony in nearly all hair match cases against criminal defendants for two decades before 2000. Based on that finding, the Justice Department on Wednesday announced that it will look at trial transcripts from cases involving other FBI Laboratory units for similar testimonial overstatement. Tribbles journey of injustice subjected [him] to all the horror, degradation, and threats to personal security and privacy inherent in prison life, each heightened by his youth, actual innocence, and life sentence, D.C. Superior Court Judge John M. Mott wrote in a 48-page opinion Friday. Mr. Tribbles ordeal did not merely deprive him of his liberty in a constitutional sense it ruined his life, leaving him broken in body and spirit and, quite literally, dying, Mott wrote. The judges opinion cited Tribbles imprisonment at age 17 and attributed his severe depression, heroin addiction, HIV and hepatitis to his incarceration. Mott awarded Tribble compensatory damages of $400,000 for each year jailed; $956,000 in lost wages; $412,000 in medical expenses; and $100,000 for each year since his release and through 2019. By 2019, medical experts testified, Tribble is expected to die from his advanced diseases. Tribble, who lives in the Washington area near his son, grandson and brother, was unavailable for comment, his attorneys said. Motts opinion stated that Tribble is destitute and suffers from liver failure and cognitive impairment, among other ailments. Nick Brustin, whose firm represented Tribble, said in a statement Friday that Tribble continues to suffer after enduring so much and remains angry, but today is an important day for him and his family. Sandra K. Levick, chief of the D.C. Public Defender Services special litigation division whose work exonerated Tribble, said: This is bittersweet. As Judge Mott eloquently writes, Mr. Tribble and his loved ones suffered so much. He more than earned this award. Robert Marus, a spokesman for D.C. Attorney General Karl A. Racine (D), declined to comment, including whether the city would appeal, saying, We are just beginning to review the decision. In court filings, attorneys for the District acknowledged Tribbles terrible loss in a tragic case. Federal prosecutors did not oppose Tribbles 2012 exoneration. Racines office argued, however, that Tribbles claims under the D.C. Unjust Imprisonment Act should be disallowed or offset because of nearly $1.4 million in damages that Tribble received from the U.S. government and argued against portions of his claims for wages, medical costs and damages. Mott wrote that Tribble repeatedly was held in solitary confinement for stretches as long as nine months and described a 1999 prison transfer in which Tribble was tasered, tear-gassed, and, at one point, held in four-point restraints and strapped to a concrete bed for four to five days, where he was forced to urinate and defecate on himself, all while in severe physical pain. Court-ordered DNA testing obtained by the public defender service confirmed that none of the 13 hairs retrieved from the crime scene stocking shared Tribbles genetic profile or that of his alleged accomplice. Rather, the DNA testing found, the hairs came from three other human sources, except for one which came from a dog facts that FBI-trained examiners disputed or missed. The daughter of John McCormick, the slain cabdriver, supported an exoneration for Tribble. Tribbles is the third multimillion-dollar payout of its kind facing the District. The District reached a $16.65 million settlement with Donald E. Gates, 64, after a D.C. federal jury found problems with hair match testimony and also that police had framed him for a 1981 rape and murder of a college student in Rock Creek Park. In the other similar case, a Superior Court judge ordered the city to pay $9.2 million to Kirk L. Odom, 53, wrongfully convicted of raping a woman in her Capitol Hill apartment in 1981. The city is appealing Odoms award. The Gates settlement alone exceeds what the city paid for all legal judgments and settlements in 2013, according to records released by the D.C. Office of Risk Management. From 2010 to 2014, the District settlement fund paid out $15 million to $33 million a year. Mott noted that although current D.C. Council members have proposed capping damages in wrongful imprisonment cases, the law imposes no limits but requires a judge, not a jury, to decide fair compensation. The District in Tribbles case asked the court to take into account the citys financial exposure. Mott wrote that when the D.C. Council passed the Unjust Imprisonment Act, members made clear that they sought to provide for a narrow class of claimants there have been three since it took effect in 1980 grounded upon the principle of fundamental fairness . . . [calling] upon the District government to assume responsibility for the unjustified deprivation of a persons liberty. The courts sole responsibility in this matter was to determine an amount of damages that will make Mr. Tribble whole, Mott wrote. Share As if there was doubt about Nokias (News - Alert) dedication to being a leading solutions provider for enabling the 5G and IoT networks of the future, the company revealed it is working with T-Mobile (News - Alert) U.S. to develop a pre-standards 5G test network for lab and field trials. The test network is expected to be completed in the second half of the year. As it stands, Nokia already delivers LTE (News - Alert) solutions used by T-Mobile. However, the two are taking their partnership to the next level, preparing T-Mobiles network for the next technology evolution and the 5G era. Were looking forward to working with Nokia to bring 5G capabilities out of the lab and into field trials with LTE technology and spectrum we already have today, said Neville Ray (News - Alert), chief technology officer at T-Mobile. Nokia also has other network transformation and 5G-related projects in full swing. This is exemplified by the companys recently selection to help transform Telefonicas (News - Alert) network with its IP core and virtualized service router technology, as well as its services expertise. A major drive for this network upgrade is helping Telefonica stay ahead of the curve in terms of meeting customer demand for data and HD video today. However, Nokia is also helping the network operator prepare for future broadband service needs, including preparing for Ultra HD video, next gen cloud, 5G and IoT services. As for its work with T-Mobile, Nokia is using pre-selected spectrum in the 28 GHz band to trial and test 5G components and accompanying use cases that support massive bandwidth capacity and virtually zero latency. This approach will enable T-Mobile to evaluate emerging 5G technologies, as well as explore new business opportunities of an increasingly connected world. We are excited to work with T-Mobile and contribute together to the standardization of 5G technology, said Ricky Corker, head of North America at Nokia. Nokias many proofs of concepts and demonstrations have positioned the company as a front-runner in the 5G arena. We have the proven ability to collaborate with industry innovators like T-Mobile to bring cutting-edge technology to market and enhance the customer experience. Share Tweet There are two big household trends which are closely intertwined on the horizon for consumers. The first is the smart home, a world where household devices improve the convenience and efficiency of a house through smart technology. The second is the connected home, a trend built on the high-capacity connectivity inside the home and to ultra-broadband wide area access networks. It should almost go without saying that communications service providers (CSPs) have unique opportunities for deriving significant differentiated and sustainable value revenues from these two trends. First, lets talk about the smart home. Home automation, security, maintenance, energy management and health monitoring all are in the early stages of benefiting from increased technological intelligence and connectivity. Gartner (News - Alert) predicts there will be hundreds of smart devices in the average home by 2020. At the same time, new fiber and copper ultra-broadband technologies such as TWDM-PON and G.fast are delivering home network connectivity that can reach up to 1Gbps. The Wi-Fi 802.11ac is then enabling this ultra-broadband to stretch throughout the home, connecting smart devices such as Philips (News - Alert) Hue smart bulbs and Nest smart thermostat. The opportunity that these two trends should represent by 2020 is upwards of $6 billion, according to ABI Research, and service providers are positioned well to reap the benefits. Thats because consumers want the benefits of this digital home where smart devices meet ultra-broadband connectivity, but they dont want added complexity on the technology front our in dealing with multiple service providers. It is for this reason that CSPs are in a good place to offer sophisticated services that feature ease of use as well as a compelling customer relationship. Consumers already have an ultra-broadband modem, router or hub in their house as part of their existing cable and internet connectivity, and they already trust their service provider with supplying these services. Instead of expanding their equipment and buying added connectivity from an additional firm, consumers can instead reduce cost and complexity by using their existing equipment to take advantage of new services as they come available. In addition, simplicity and enhanced utility are on the way for those who wish to upgrade. And, with technology such as Nokias 7368 ISAM ONT G-240WZ-A smart hub, service providers can offer a new platform for that is optimized for the smart home. The Nokia (News - Alert) 7368 ISAM ONT G-240WZ-A, which Nokia will release in June, combines unparalleled connectivity with advanced Wi-Fi capabilities that support the digital home of smart devices and ultra-broadband. We may be is early days of the totally digital smart home. However, it is not too early for service providers to be evaluating all aspects that will be required for assuring their centrality as providers of choice for value-added as well as connectivity capabilities as the smart home markets evolve. Share Tweet By now youre probably already aware that service providers are working to transform their networks to be more agile, efficient, programmable, and software-centric. The idea of flexible service chaining dovetails perfectly with these goals. In existing networks, network functions usually exist as dedicated resources. Traffic flows through these network elements on the way to its destination whether that traffic needs to or not. Flexible service chaining, however, aims to cut out the middleman by taking traffic only where it needs to go. That frees up network resources that dont add value to certain traffic so they can be used exclusively to serve the traffic that does need them. In other words, it allows for more efficient use of resources. This new networking technology also is important because it opens the door for service providers to monetize their networks via the control and enrichment of certain services, according to the recent Nokia (News - Alert) white paper, simply titled, Flexible Service Chaining. So, what is it and how does it work? Flexible service chaining steers traffic (in the SGi LAN domain) based on that traffics needs relative to application type, policy, and even analysis of data. SGi is the interface at the packet data network gateway toward packet data networks. Service classification is a key part of flexible service chaining, according to the white paper. In some cases classification up to level 4 is sufficient, but sometimes up to level 7 is required. And, a service function forwarder can help with this classification, which is needed at the ingress and egress of the packet network. It is also recommended when flows leave a service function and move on to the next function. Various organizations and vendors are now working to ensure the necessary pieces are in place to enable flexible service chaining. For example, the IETF has begun work on Service Function Chaining. That involves the Network Service Header on-demand routing mechanism. Meanwhile, Nokia is addressing flexible service chaining with its CloudBand solution. As highlighted in a recent Nokia blog by Rob McManus, Does your service traffic pass through every network function? It doesnt have to., the solutions integrates the Nuage Networks SDN controller to allow for secure policy-based service chains between resources, catalogs available functions and dynamically orchestrates and adapts service chains between functions on demand. The idea of service chaining is not entirely new. Service chains exist today in mobile networks. However, flexible service chaining allows the relevant service chain to be chosen using analysis of traffic flow, application used, and subscriber information. And, it aligns with the software-defined networking (SDN) concept of separating the control and user planes and allowing for more dynamic and programmable networks. A report published by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on Wednesday called for a coordinated stimulus program to support a slowing global economy. An official with a European delegation to the G20 earlier in the week said policymakers recognize elevated risks and will express the need for coordinated action in their joint communique at the summit. There is general agreement that should the situation worsen considerably, there needs to be a discussion on what should we do collectively or in a coordinated manner, but this is not what we would do today, the official said. Chinas central bank reiterated assurances made on Thursday that it will not use currency depreciation to boost exports, and that it intends to keep the yuan basically stable against a basket of currencies. The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) has a map showing the coverage of Chinas airplanes and missiles based on islands in the South China Sea. One of Chinas highly developed islands in the northern part of the South China Sea, Woody Island, has been equipped with surface-to-air missiles and fighter aircraft. These moves have come just as many defense analysts have predicted for years and are likely an indication of things to come for Chinas other island outposts throughout the South China Sea. There is also evidence that China is installing a high-frequency long-range radar array on Cuarteron Reef, one of their handful of manmade islands in the south-central part of the South China Sea. This radar type is known to be used for detecting aircraft and ships at extreme ranges far over-the-horizon and can theoretically detect some stealthy aircraft under certain circumstances. It is just one of many other sensors popping up on this island and others, although the existence of such a capability provides even more evidence that China is actively seeking an aggressive anti-access, area denial strategy over the South China Sea. China has begun an extensive construction operation in the South China Seas Paracel Islands, following years of work building artificial islands in the Spratly Archipelago. Chinese construction crews are working on a helicopter base on Duncan Island, which has required land dredging that has increase[d] by 50 percent the area of Duncan Island. In addition to the base, The Diplomat finds evidence for the beginnings of a number of new, potentially military facilities in the region. Construction appears to have begun in earnest in early December 2015. The Philippines has offered the United States eight bases where it can build facilities to store equipment and supplies under a new security deal, a military spokesman said on Wednesday, amid rising tension with China over the South China Sea. Last year, the Philippines and the United States signed the Enhanced Defence Cooperation Agreement (EDCA) granting Washington increased military presence in its former colony, rotating ships and planes for humanitarian and maritime security operations. The list has been prepared many months ago when we had earlier discussions, Colonel Restituto Padilla told reporters, saying five military airfields, two naval bases and a jungle training camp were offered to the United States. These are still subject for approval and were going to hold final discussions about these areas. Three of these bases are on the main island of Luzon in the northern Philippines, including Clark airfield, a former U.S. air force base, and two are on the western island of Palawan, near the South China Sea. The Americans are also seeking access to three civilian seaports and airfields on Luzon, including Subic Bay, a former U.S. Navy base, a senior defense official told Reuters. Indonesia base Indonesia plans to strengthen its capability to defend its land and waters in the South China Sea, namely the Natuna Islands around which the country has declared an exclusive economic zone that overlaps with Chinas nine-dash line maritime claim its defense minister. According to Ryamizard, Indonesia plans to deploy a fleet of jet fighters and three corvettes to the islands, revamp its naval and air force base and deploy more troops. Indonesia currently has about 800 service members in Natuna. Next year, the number will rise to about 2,000. SOURCES Japan Times, Center for Strategic and International Studies, Reuters, Breitbart Clinton shot down Trump's campaign slogan, "Make America Great Again", and his plans to build a wall on the U.S.-Mexican border. The theory went like this: Sanders would not be able to grow his support beyond overwhelmingly white, liberal enclaves among Democratic Party electorates in Iowa and New Hampshire. "I'm looking forward - if I'm fortunate to the be the nominee - to debate any one of the them", a confident Clinton told a Nashville rally. Bernie Sanders but much needed redemption after losing in the state eight years earlier to then-Sen. But if Clinton and Trump win big on Tuesday as opinion polls suggest, the chance of a general election matchup between them increases, adding another twist to a presidential campaign that has defied convention as voters vent frustration over economic uncertainty, illegal immigration and national security threats. While Sanders spent the end of the week outside of SC, his campaign did invest heavily in the state. At a campaign victory party in Columbia, supporters broke into raucous cheers as the race was called in her favour. Her aides were even more hopeful. Virginia officer shot and killed has New Hampshire ties He said he does not know any details about the shooting, but said his son, who works in the Army, had a "very good upbringing". Officer Guindon was sworn in to the Prince William County Police Department on Friday and began her first shift this weekend. "We do have a path to victory", the Vermont senator said on "Face the Nation," a day after he was trounced in the SC primary - 73.5 percent to 26 percent. Hillary Clinton's victory in Saturday's SC primary is hard to overstate. On the republican side our area will be flooded in one way or another... for instance you're likely already seeing campaign ads hit Florida TV and radio stations now as Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz try and knock off Donald trump with Florida voting just two weeks after super Tuesday. Clinton carried white women 18 points, while Sanders won white men by 14 points. As he arrived in Rochester, Minnesota, he said "sometimes you win, sometimes you lose". "No question, let me be very clear: we did really, really badly with older African American voters", he said. "Tuesday, over 800 delegates are at stake and we intend to win many, many of them". Among all primary voters Saturday - black and white - 8 in 10 said the issue of race relations was important to their vote. Chris Rock Calls Oscars 'The White People's Choice Awards' When your grandmother is swinging from a tree, it's really hard to care about who won Best Documentary Foreign Short. It's like, 'We like you, Rhonda, but you're not a Kappa.'" And he added: "We want opportunity. "Things are changing. Clinton sees a different - slightly broader - map on Tuesday. Sanders said the only positive in SC is that he continued to perform well among younger voters. "We are going to compete for every vote in every state", Clinton said on Saturday night. "We are not taking anything and we're not taking anyone for granted". Updated exit polls, meanwhile, showed the mountain Bernie Sanders now has to climb. Sanders on Sunday predicted wins in Minnesota, Colorado, Oklahoma and Vermont, as well as a strong showing in MA. So, though SC doesn't mathematically doom Sanders in terms of delegates, and though it's too early to doomsay over Super Tuesday, it might be time to think about what Sanders's political revolution will become in the event that his candidacy fails. Not Found The requested URL was not found on this server. Apache Server Port 80 WELCOME Welcome to Nicholas V's Blog on Blogger I have been blogging daily on this platform for several years now. It is surprising that I have persisted as the world is changing and "microblogging" is now the norm. I blog to amuse myself, make comment on current affairs, externalise some of my creativity, keep notes on things that interest me, learn something new and to surprise myself with things that I discover about this wonderful, and sometimes crazy, world we live in. I sometimes get the impression that I am on a soapbox delivering a monologue, so your comments are welcome. Please note that unless otherwise stated, all original material of whatever nature created by Nicholas V. in this weblog is and licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Non-Commercial No-Derivs 2.5 licence. http:// creativecommons.org Our site contains links to third-party websites. We have no influence whatsoever on the information on these websites and accept no guarantee for its correctness. The content of such third-party websites is the responsibility of the respective owners/providers. Nomadic Politics Blog bears no responsibility for comments. 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. Radio New Zealand reports on the disturbing practice of the Police, Corrections, and Housing New Zealand colluding to block bail requests: Housing New Zealand is standing in the way of poor people getting home detention or being bailed to state houses even when they have no other options, lawyers say. Police and Corrections are also being criticised for alerting Housing New Zealand to bail applications when they would not do the same with private landlords. A person is more likely to be locked up - whether they've just been charged or already convicted - if they cannot find an address to go to that is acceptable to the court. Judges ask police and probation what they think about an address, and they in turn have been making a habit of asking Housing New Zealand what it thinks. It is inconsistent with the tenancy rights of Housing New Zealand tenants. They're allowed house guests or boarders, and Housing New Zealand doesn't get to vet them. So, they're violating their tenancy agreements with their tenants and acting as despots. It is prima facie inconsistent with Housing New Zealand's duties under s24(b) of the Bill of Rights Act, which states that everyone charged with an offence "shall be released on reasonable terms and conditions unless there is just cause for continued detention". While this is normally the duty of the courts and police, as an arm of the executive, Housing New Zealand must also act so as to give effect to this right. Pretty obviously, its not. inconsistent with Housing New Zealand's duties under s24(b) of the Bill of Rights Act, which states that everyone charged with an offence "shall be released on reasonable terms and conditions unless there is just cause for continued detention". While this is normally the duty of the courts and police, as an arm of the executive, Housing New Zealand must also act so as to give effect to this right. Pretty obviously, its not. It may also be inconsistent with the right to be free from discrimination on the basis of employment status or disability, insofar as it results in those groups (or people with relatives in those groups) receiving worse treatment from the courts as a result of Housing New Zealand practices. What's wrong with this? Where to start? To point out the obvious:And all of these are legally actionable and potentially impose significant liability on the government. And those who have been victimised by this collusion need to sue, because clearly state agencies won't obey the law (and common decency) unless they're taken to the cleaners whenever they break it. We have enshrined the right to bail to prevent the innocent from being unjustly imprisoned while their cases are resolved. Innocent people have almost certainly spent time in jail because of Housing New Zealand's actions, and they need to be compensated. But most importantly, this practice needs to be stopped immediately and those responsible for it sacked. Because apart from being unlawful, it is simplyto discriminate against the poor in this way because they or their relatives are recipients of state assistance, and to use that fact as leverage to effectively impose a harsher punishment than others would receive. " ... How many opportunities do they afford to tamper with domestic factions, to practice the arts of seduction, to mislead public opinion, to influence or awe the public... " [From George Washington's farewell address.] Other Quotes: "Don't worry about genius and don't worry about not being clever. Trust rather to hard work, perseverance and determination. The best motto for a long march is ' Don't grumble. Plug on.'....Be honest. Be loyal. Be kind. Remember that the hardest thing to acquire is the faculty of being unselfish. As a quality it is one of the finest attributes of manliness." Sir Frederick Treves "...To be clear, the Constitution of the United States of America is the United States of America. They are one and the same. Any individual or agency which seeks to subvert the Constitution and wage political and/or rhetorical war on it, are self-declared enemies of the United States of America, as they are subverting and waging war on the United States of America." - Pat Dollard The truth to the matter is that Obama lies but he does it with such finess that the easily fooled are easily fooled. ~ Norman E. Hooben "Going for the grandest illusion of all, [Obama] ... told the New York Times: 'We've actually been operating in a way that has been entirely consistent with free-market principles.' Excuse me while I pick my jaw off the ground. Everyone knows -- or should know -- that putting more and more of the government in charge of more and more of the economy is entirely inconsistent with free-market principles. This means that the president's statement to the contrary is what is known as a big lie." --columnist Diana West When you trust a stranger more so than your friend, you become stranger than the stranger; Barrack Husein Obama is a stranger. - Norman E. Hooben We the peopleWe the people now have a New World Order that we the people did not order. Norman E. Hooben "We are now in a great civil war of words and you have the honor of participating as a true patriot. The battle has not been won but you will be there when we are victorious. The pen is mightier than the sword and you will inscribe your name in the book of freedomand that, my friend is an honor "If you will not fight for the right when you can easily win without bloodshed; if you will not fight when your victory will be sure and not too costly; you may come to the moment when you will have to fight with all the odds against you and only a small chance of survival. There may even be a worse case: you may have to fight when there is no hope of victory, because it is better to perish than to live as slaves ." - Winston Churchill It has been said that politics is the second oldest profession. I have learned that it bears a striking resemblance to the first. - Ronald Reagan Thomas Sowell For those who promote a race they are called, "racists". For those that promote American they are called "American". For 'American' is a 'concept' and no racial tones are tolerated either in shades or sounds. -Norman E. Hooben (In reference to Lourdes Galvan of San Antonio, Texas racial bigotry regarding American military heroes.) Note to NATIONAL COUNCIL OF LA RAZA ( Hola! I know you are watching): Will Rogers never met Nancy Pelosi or Harry Reid. - N. E. Hooben, July 2008 Harvard University was once an all boys school...today they have no balls at all. - N. E. Hooben I will stand with the Constitution For The United States of America should the political winds shift in an ugly direction Politicians are like vampires... Whether its blood or money they want to suck it out of you till you die. ~ N. E. Hooben (Norman E. Hooben in response to a writer who complained of not having the honor of serving in the U.S. Military)Back in the days of "The Lone Ranger" program, someone would ask, "Who is that masked man?" People need to start asking that question about Barack Obama. -N.E. HoobenThe Police State of Massachusetts is now imposing laws against nature. Massachusetts is by far the most un-Constitutional government of the State, by the State, and for the State than any among the the fifty that hold a star on the banner of freedom. It is run by Socialists and hypocritical so-called Christiansthe worst among them are the Catholics who go to Church on Sunday and forget what they Prayed for on Monday. - Norman E. Hooben - "A proud Catholic proud of my Faith. A proud Catholic NOT so proud of my Church!" - July 16th 2008 N. E. Hooben When a people are satisfied with receiving gifts paid with their own taxes as a way of life Anarchy is sure to follow. - Fred Boutin 2008 From the first time I heard about the boogey-man as a child to the first time I got shot at in Vietnam, nothing in my entire lifetime, THAT'S NOTHING! has put more fear into me than this man Obama. - Norman E. Hooben - July 2008 We are here for only a mini-second in the sands of time. Then we become the dust that makes the sand; and the Hand of God molds us anew. Take care my friend and may God Bless... - Norman E. Hooben on the death of our dearly beloved pet dog, Stirling The evidence is overwhelming! In order to save America we must destroy the Socialst Marxist Party... - N. E. Hooben "America is like a healthy body and its resistance is threefold: its patriotism, its morality, and its spiritual life. If we can undermine these three areas, America will collapse from within." -- Josef Stalin -- When it comes to lying, prudent people are guided by a Higher Authority driven by thou shall not written in stone. Whereas Bill Clinton has no Higher Authority to guide him, thou shall not has no conscious objections; for without a conscience there is no guilt. - Norman Hooben The victor will never be asked if he told the truth. - Adolph Hitler The accumulation of all powers, legislative, executive, and judiciary, in the same hands, whether of one, a few, or many, and whether hereditary, self-appointed, or elective, may justly be pronounced the very definition of tyranny. - James Madison, the Federalists Papers There was a Chemistry professor in a large college that had some Exchange students in the class. One day while the class was in the lab the Prof noticed one young man (exchange student) who kept rubbing his back And stretching as if his back hurt. The professor asked the young man what was the matter. The student told him he had a bullet lodged in his back. He had been shot while fighting communists in his native country who were trying to overthrow his country's government and install a new communist government. In the midst of his story he looked at the professor and asked a strange question. He asked,'Do you know how to catch wild pigs?' The professor thought it was a joke and asked for the punch line. The young man said this was no joke. 'You catch wild pigs by finding a suitable place in the woods and putting corn on the ground. The pigs find it and begin to come everyday to eat the free corn. When they are used to coming every day, you put a fence down one side of the place where they are used to coming. When they get used to the fence, they begin to eat the corn again and you put up another side of the fence. They get used to that and start to eat again. You continue until you have all four sides of the fence up with a gate in the last side. The pigs, who are used to the free corn, start to come through the gate to eat, you slam the gate on them and catch the whole herd. Suddenly, the wild pigs have lost their freedom. They run around and around inside the fence, but they are caught. Soon they go back to eating the free corn. They are so used to it that they have forgotten how to forage in the woods for themselves, so they accept their captivity. The young man then told the professor that is exactly what he sees happening to America. The government keeps pushing us toward Communism/Socialism and keeps spreading the free corn out in the form of programs such as supplemental income, tax credit for unearned income, subsidies, payments not to plant crops (CRP), welfare, medicine, drugs, etc. while we continually lose our freedoms- just a little at a time. One should always remember 'There is no such thing as a free Lunch!' Also, 'You can never hire someone to provide a service for you cheaper than you can do it yourself. You apparently don't share a sense of patriotism, Americanism, freedomism, or whatever kind of 'ism' that true Americans believe in... You do however, display a bit of socialism, communism, marxism or whatever kind of 'ism' that you make excuses for... ~ Norman E. Hooben (in response to an Obama supporter's views about the ACS census) A nation that knows not from where it came, knows not where it is going! Today, Americans know too little about the foundations of our nation. The result is a nation now in chaos, its people unable to discern what is wrong with the transformation (paradigm shift) of our society and form of government that, if left unchecked, will destroy every facet of freedom, liberty and justice. The price of freedom is vigilance; the price of vigilance is knowledge. Many of America's founding documents are now available on the web. ~ Learn USA The Arab League will be choosing a new Secretary General in July after Nabil al-Arabi revealed that he had told the Egyptian Government not to renew his mandate. The Arab League is headquartered in Cairo and is traditionally headed by an Egyptian diplomat except for the eleven years that followed the Egyptian-Israeli peace treaty when it was transferred to Tunis. President Sisi has already picked up al-Arabis successor according to foreign ministry spokesperson Ahmed Abu Zeid. Yet, the identity of the nominee will not be made public until necessary high-level consultations are held over the few coming days. The Egyptian President has reportedly started contacting Arab League member states for their support to his nominee. Arabi is eighty years old and served only a term at the pan Arab body. He had held the Foreign Affairs portfolio for about four months before becoming Arab League chief in 2011. The next general assembly of the league will be held in April instead of March following Saudi Arabias request for a postponement. The Summit meeting was to be held in Marrakech, Morocco, but Rabat turned down hosting the 27th session due to the leagues lack of important decisions and concrete initiative to submit to the heads of states among other issues which it lamented would only make the gathering approve ordinary resolutions and pronounce speeches that give false impression of unity. The statement released by the Moroccan Foreign Ministry mid-February added that Arab leaders cannot confine themselves, once more, to simply analyzing the bitter situation of divergences and divisions without giving decisive responses. An unidentified warplane struck an IS convoy early Sunday near the town of Bani Walid. The air-strike took place in the early hours of Sunday and did not involve their forces, according to the Tripoli authorities. A military official linked to Tripoli-based Administration pointed out that the raid took place outside the city of Sirte, hometown for former Libyan ruler Col. Gaddafi. The city has fallen into the hands of IS fighters last June. It is believed that it was an IS convoy, but the target has not yet been identified, the official said, adding that the convoy was completely destroyed. He did not give any details on the death toll. Libya Herald on the other hand reports that the Pentagon denied it carried out the air strike. This is the second time this month that unidentified war planes hit IS forces. After the Pentagon claimed its fighter jets hit IS fighters in Sabratha on February 19, killing dozens of militants, another mysterious warplane reportedly struck IS vessels trying to pull out of the city. Tripoli authorities welcomed the US air-strikes against IS positions. Prime Minister Khalifa Ghwell also recently instructed forces loyal to his unrecognized government to head to Sirte and flash out IS fighters and liberate the city. Also last week, Libyan National Army led by Gen. Khalifa Haftar announced it liberated Benghazi, the countrys second largest city where IS and other terrorist groups established a nerve center. Stories of our northeastern North Carolina ancestorsfrom earliest days to recent times. The stories are from the counties north and east of Raleigh, NC: Beaufort, Bertie, Camden, Chowan, Currituck, Dare, Edgecombe, Franklin, Gates, Granville, Halifax, Hertford, Hyde, Johnston, Martin, Nash, Northampton, Pasquotank, Perquimans, Pitt, Tyrrell, Vance, Wake Warren, Washington, and Wilson. Each story is a unique slice of history. The Secret to Happiness is the Joy of the Lord; and the joy of the Lord is His manifest presence in your life. It is our Privilege and Responsibility to Glorify God; and we glorify God by manifesting His character every moment and in every situation. Humility and Pride You can tell a humble man that he has a problem with pride and he will agree with you; but if you tell a proud man that he has a problem with pride, he becomes your enemy. This one thing I know for sure, that whenever there is a problem with my relationship with the Lord, it is not His fault. Some people are just plain lazy; some people are just overly sensitive to gravity; others are simply economical with their energy. It's not enough to preach the Gospel; you must be the Gospel. If you can describe your life in a nutshell, there's a good probability that you're a nut. As a good Canadian, I'd like to apologize in advance for anything I might say that offends you; sometimes my mouth hits high gear while my brain is still in low. Never allow the thought, "I am of no use where I am"; because you certainly can be of no use where you are not. Oswald Chambers We cannot even begin to approach the Truth until we are willing to go wherever the Truth leads us. The newest object of idol worship is 'my opinion'! Suffering is the only experience we have in common with every other human who ever lived. Petter Stordalen is not able to keep back the tears when he talks about the future, his wife Gunhild, and her struggle for life in a new Swe... Confira o preco do seguro para o Chevrolet Onix Saiba quando voce gastaria com o seguro do carro mais vendido do Brasil By Alana Wise By Alana Wise (Reuters) - If Republican Presidential hopeful Ted Cruz lands a win in the nominating contest in his home state of Texas on Tuesday, part of the credit will go to support from a small and often overlooked interest group: homeschoolers. The Senator's campaign has invested months of effort courting the well-organized network of families who educate their children at home - often to avoid constraints on religion in public school - in the hopes they can keep a big chunk of conservative voters away from his rivals, billionaire Donald Trump and Senator Marco Rubio of Florida. "They were crucial to our win in Iowa and will be in Texas (as well)," said Cruz campaign spokeswoman Catherine Frazier, referring to Cruz's only victory in a string of four contests for the party's presidential nomination so far that have otherwise been swept by Trump. The Cruz campaign has used its message of religious liberty and small government to draw some 6,670 members to its "Homeschoolers for Cruz" coalition in recent months - many of whom campaign on his behalf. "One thing to understand about homeschoolers is we are all networked," said Ken Cuccinelli, a member of Homeschoolers for Cruz and an occasional campaign surrogate. He said the group has used email pleas, door-knocking, and old-fashioned word-of-mouth to win votes. "The real rock stars are the teenagers. They have so much energy... And work ethic. They just churn through work like us old people don't." Cruz's campaign is betting that support like that will help him secure a win in Texas - the biggest prize among the 12 states holding Republican nominating contests on Super Tuesday. Texas has 155 delegates and a big win for Cruz could potentially shift the balance of the race to decide who will be the Republican nominee at the Nov. 8 presidential election. Trump currently has 82 delegates to Cruz's 17. Only around 3.5 percent of schoolchildren in the United States are homeschooled. But the families that endorse homeschooling can have outsized political influence in some states and are often conservative. Many proponents of homeschooling share two important traits: a bent toward religion and a tendency to carefully guard against education policy changes that could affect them personally. "(Cruz) is going to make sure that the federal government will not infringe on what we believe is our God-given right," said Will Estrada, a Virginia-based co-chair of Homeschoolers for Cruz and a lawyer at the Home School Legal Defense Association - which does not typically endorse candidates before the general election. CRUZ LEADS TEXAS Homeschoolers help candidates tap into the evangelical vote, long thought to be Cruz's firewall in Southern states, even though he has struggled to win the conservative Christian vote amid the challenge by Trump. Cruz leads Trump in Texas, 36.2 to 26.6 percent, according to a RealClearPolitics poll average, one of few leads predicted for the Texas senator for March 1 contests. The stakes are high for Cruz on Tuesday. At a recent presidential forum at Regent University in Virginia, also a Super Tuesday state, Cruz warned that a runaway victory for Trump could make the billionaire businessman unstoppable." Marlin Bontrager, a homeschooler parent whose family gospel band tours the country by bus, said he's supporting Cruz in part because he worries that secular education has contributed to a drop in the American intellect and the rise of Trump, as well. "Our educational system has(...) dumbed down our society. And we're seeing the effect of that this election," he said, referring to the broad support for Trump. In 2008, homeschoolers in Iowa mobilized around then-Republican presidential hopeful Mike Huckabee, helping him win the state. (Additional reporting by Luciana Lopez; Editing by Richard Valdmanis and Alistair Bell) This article was funded in part by SAP. It was independently created by the Reuters editorial staff. SAP had no editorial involvement in its creation or production. By Gina Cherelus and Melissa Fares NEW YORK (Reuters) - The use of the #NeverTrump hashtag grew on Twitter on Monday as detractors of Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump fretted over his momentum on the eve of Super Tuesday election contests. On Twitter, the top influencer, or person who received the most engagement on their #NeverTrump tweets, was Trump rival Marco Rubio, according to online research firm Hashtagify.me. The senator from Florida and real estate billionaire Trump are engaged in an increasingly personal battle of insults on social media before voters in more than a dozen states select their party's nominee to run for the White House in November. Rubio began using the tag on Friday, tweeting: "Donald Trump is a con artist - and he cannot be our nominee. #NeverTrump." The tweet received more than 8,000 "likes" and 5,100 retweets. He repeated the tag in three more tweets over the weekend, with each one getting several thousand likes or retweets. A spokeswoman for the Trump campaign did not immediately return calls for comment. Another major influencer on the tag was conservative commentator Glenn Beck (@glennbeck), even though he has used it just once, on Sunday. Beck supports U.S. Senator Ted Cruz of Texas in the campaign. Still, Beck's post - "Praying for this great country. Praying for a true constitutionalist! God bless (an emblem for the American flag). #NeverTrump #CruzCrew" - proved influential, getting retweeted nearly 1,000 times and liked nearly 2,000 times. Traffic on the hashtag was dominated by users who identify as conservative or Republican, most expressing vexation with the front-runner. Many tweets focused on Trump's CNN interview on Sunday, when he declined to repudiate an endorsement from former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke. Trump later said he did not hear the question properly because of a defective ear piece. Whitney Westerfield (@KyWhitney), a Republican state senator from Kentucky, tweeted on Monday, "Wow. Trump blaming his failure to repudiate the hatred & extremism of the KKK on a #BadEarpiece. #NeverTrump." "No, the white supremacist/David Duke/KKK question isn't hard. Reject their support & denounce their hate. Again & again & again. #nevertrump," said Stephen Hayes (@stephenhayes), a writer for the Weekly Standard, a weekly conservative magazine. Trump supporters have countered with their own hashtag: #AlwaysTrump. "We must continue to fight on social media, the Peoples Revolution, the strongest tool right now! #TRUMP2016 #AlwaysTrump," wrote Trump supporter Linda Alexander (@noopdoggy). Still, the #NeverTrump hashtag was winning the trending battle, seeing roughly twice the traffic as #AlwaysTrump on Monday, according to social media analytics firm Zoomph. (Reporting by Gina Cherelus; Editing by Dan Burns and Grant McCool) This article was funded in part by SAP. It was independently created by the Reuters editorial staff. SAP had no editorial involvement in its creation or production. So far, none of the drivers have been identified. Photo: Bryan Smith/Corbis In just four hours yesterday, four pedestrians and one cyclist were struck and three were killed by motor vehicles. The first incident occurred at 1:30 a.m. when 63-year-old Jose Contreras was fatally hit as he walked near the on-ramp of a Bronx highway, the Daily News reports. He was crossing Webster Avenue when a black SUV struck him before speeding away; Contreras died at St. Barnabas Hospital. Less than an hour later, a 22-year-old woman was hit by a silver minivan in Jamaica, Queens; she was taken to Jamaica Hospital Medical Center in critical condition, according to the New York Times. Then at 3:30 a.m., police responded to a call at Prince Street and Sixth Avenue in SoHo where a 30-year-old man had been struck by an unidentified vehicle while he was crossing the street; he went to Bellevue in critical condition. About an hour after that, two more hit-and-run incidents occurred almost simultaneously: A 41-year-old cyclist was hit by a gold sedan in Park Slope, and Besik Shengelia, 48, was killed by an unidentified vehicle in Queens as he rummaged in the backseat of his car. None of the five drivers has been identified, and police are working on all the cases. Last years record number of hit-and-runs 38,000 in all prompted lawmakers to consider upping fines for the incidents. I think its staggering, Councilman Jimmy Van Bramer, who recently sponsored a bill that imposes harsher penalties on hit-and-run drivers, told the Daily News. Van Bramers bill, which fines repeat offenders up to $20,000 and requires the NYPD to report data on hit-and-run civil penalties, became law in January. The bill sends a message to criminals who think they can get away with leaving a fellow New Yorker on the side of the road to die, Van Bramer said. If you break the law, we will find you and punish you. An anti-riot policeman throws a tear gas grenade on during the dismantling of half of the Jungle migrant camp in the French northern port city of Calais. Photo: Philippe Huguen/AFP/Getty Images Clashes broke out between migrants and police in riot gear after two bulldozers and work crews pulled into the Jungle the sprawling migrant shantytown in Calais, France on Monday morning to begin the court-ordered destruction of parts of the camp. Activists hide from a water cannon. Photo: Carl Court/Getty Images #CalaisJungle demolition has begun today, refugees burn their tents in defiance of riot police @RTUKnews @Ruptly pic.twitter.com/ZFhvKtVaaH Jon Scammell (@JonScammell) February 29, 2016 A bulldozer dismantles shelters in the Jungle migrant camp. Photo: Philippe Huguen/AFP/Getty Images Migrants demonstrate as parts of the Jungle are torn down. Photo: Philippe Huguen/AFP/Getty Images Migrants, refugees, and activists protested as the workers dismantled and tore down empty shacks and tents, with some reportedly setting structures on fire in defiance or throwing rocks at the demolition crews as they worked. Police in riot gear, who stood guard between the crews and campers, lobbed teargas at the mobs, which also set some structures up in flames, reports BBC. Two people were reportedly arrested: one activist and one camp resident. Migrants throwing rocks at French police in #CalaisJungle pic.twitter.com/WMgxIWF8LZ Sofia Bettiza (@SofiaBettiza) February 29, 2016 Things in Calais are escalating quickly, police about to tear gas #CalaisJungle pic.twitter.com/SDmoB9WSbg Sofia Bettiza (@SofiaBettiza) February 29, 2016 A migrant watches as a hut burns. Photo: Carl Court/Getty Images Police officers run at protesing activists and migrants. Photo: Carl Court/Getty Images The demolition apparently began peacefully, with officials telling people they had an hour to evacuate the camp or face arrest. Authorities had been encouraging migrants and refugees to decamp voluntarily since last week, after a French judge ruled Thursday that officials could evict about 1,000 residents and demolish southern parts of the camp, with the exception of certain public structures including schools, mosques, and clinics. French officials will shelter migrants and refugees in heated containers near the camp or send them to official reception centers across France to process asylum claims. Police and migrants face-off. Photo: Carl Court/Getty Images An acivist is sprayed with a water cannon. Photo: Carl Court/Getty Images Officials estimate the Calais camps population at roughly 3,500, but some groups say that number is higher by the hundreds. Migrants and refugees built up the camp in Calais, atop a former toxic-waste dump, because of its proximity to the entrance of the English Channels Chunnel, where migrants and refugees wait for the chance to hide on or under trucks and trains in hopes of smuggling themselves into Great Britain. Roast Master Rubio Photo: Sean Rayford/Getty Images Marco Rubio has attacked Donald Trump as a fake conservative. Hes attacked him as a con man a mogul whose only true art was that of the bankruptcy. But all of those substantive attacks on Trumps inconsistent political positions and consistently unscrupulous business practices appear to have done little-to-nothing to erode the Donalds support. So over the weekend, the Florida senator took a new tack and (apparently) solicited opposition research from some precocious fifth-grade bully. Hes always calling me little Marco, Rubio said, while reading Trumps Twitter feed at a rally in Virgina on Sunday. Ill admit hes taller than me. Hes like 62, which is why I dont understand why his hands are the size of someone whos 52. Have you seen his hands? And you know what they say about men with small hands? Rubios supporters, realizing that their presidential candidate had just suggested that the other presidential candidate has an unusually small penis, roared with approval. You cant trust em! Rubio then shouted four or five times, to make clear that he hadnt really gone there. Trump is famously sensitive about his tiny paws, and has been ever since Spy magazine branded him a short-fingered vulgarian in the late eighties. But Rubios dig at Trumps diminutive digits was only one of the senators many attempts at insult comedy over the weekend. Other highlights included: He doesnt sweat because his pores are clogged from the spray-tan he uses. Donald is not gonna make America great, hes going to make America orange! Donald Trump likes to sue people. He should sue whoever did that to his face. Hes flying around on Hair Force One! At the debate, he asked for a full-length-mirror maybe to make sure his pants werent wet. Rubios decision to bring himself down to the Donalds level may be off-putting. But its not unreasonable for him to think he needs to fight garbage fire with garbage fire. Several political scientists have argued that Trumps central appeal is his aura of authority and dominance. At a Jeb Bush rally back in February, MSNBCs Benjy Sarlin spoke with a proud George W. Bush supporter who was leaning towards Trump this cycle. Explaining his reservations about Jeb!, the man pointed to the way the former Florida governor had withered under Trumps attacks at the most recent debate. If Jeb had told him to fk off, hed get my vote, he said. You cant puncture a candidates aura of dominance with substantive attacks on his record. Thus, Rubio has opted to attack Trump as an over-tanned, ugly-faced, small-dicked pants-wetter, instead. The future of the Republican Party may ride on the strength of Rubios Don Rickles routine. John Kasich, potential survivor of the post-apocalyptic Republican primary. Photo: Win McNamee/Getty Images Marco Rubio has reprogrammed his political strategy overnight. Before Thursdays debate, his strategy relied on making himself the candidate of pan-Republicanism. His favorite and most crowd-pleasing line in debates was I like everybody on the stage. No one is a socialist. No one here is under FBI investigation. As recently as hours before the debate, he (or his campaign) was still using the message I am committed to running a positive campaign. Rubio ditched that strategy during the debate, debuting numerous new attack lines against Donald Trump. The next day, he escalated dramatically, calling Trump a con man, taunting that the front-runner had peed his pants during the debate, and impugning the length of his sexual organ. This was probably the only strategy available for Rubio at this point; he needs to stop Trump soon before he runs away with the race. But it also carries risks for Rubio himself. The old Rubio strategy was not successful at winning primaries, but it was successful at making people like Rubio. Rubio has ranked at or near the top of lists of voters favorite second-choice candidates. As Nate Cohn points out, Rubio has time to catch up and overtake Trump, even if he loses every state on Super Tuesday. But Rubios strategy hinges upon successfully taking down Trump without losing his own currently wide, but relatively shallow, base of support. Will Republicans still like the new, mean, pee-pants-calling, dick-length-mocking Rubio just as much as the old, winsome version? Maybe so. But reporters already located Rubio supporters discomfited by the new version of the candidate they had selected. (The Washington Examiner: I liked him until he got down in the mud with Trump, Paul Eveland told me before the Rubio rally. While his wife, Ceci, is behind Rubio, Paul is undecided. Ceci granted that point: Its disrespectful to the office. The Washington Post: I liked him better when he wasnt so Slanderous, her husband, Ken, finished.) It is possible that Rubios mockery will finally bring down Trump. But even if so, Rubios popularity might come down along with him. In that case, the conflict will redound to the benefit of the candidate who is currently running the now-discarded Rubio game plan: John Kasich. The Ohio governor is using versions of the old, well-received Rubio message about refusing to attack fellow Republicans and bringing people together. Kasichs failure to take hold in the campaign is slightly puzzling. Both Rubio and Kasich find themselves saddled with a single, large ideological deviation. Rubio co-sponsored, then abandoned, bipartisan immigration reform, while Kasich accepted Medicaid expansion. Kasichs heresy might be worse from the perspective of movement purists. After all, Rubio was merely following the official Republican post-election doctrine of getting immigration past the party in order to solve its Latino problem. Kasich had no such excusable partisan motive; he only wanted to help poor people get health insurance. His heresy suggests a troubling unwillingness to inflict the hardships upon the poor and sick that would be required to implement any form of Obamacare repeal or replacement with an alternative that leaves much skimpier coverage. Still, that one large fault aside, Kasich has many positive qualities to offer as a nominee. Hes an accomplished legislator and governor in a crucial swing state. His policy platform is rock-solidly reliable to the partys donor base, and he has a pleasant persona. In some ways, Kasich is an older version of Rubio. Where Rubio tells everybody hes the the son of a bartender, Kasich tells everybody hes the son of a mailman. Rubio opens demographic doors among nonwhite voters and the Sun Belt, while Kasich does so in the Midwest. His platform is the standard mix of Republicanism anchored around a gigantic, regressive tax cut. Rubios supporters have pressured Kasich to drop out of the race, but Kasich has no reason to do so. Rubio may have more Establishment support than Kasich, but both candidates have a trivial number of delegates so far, and Super Tuesday seems unlikely to change that. Rubios Establishment support, furthermore, is predicated upon the popularity Rubio amassed by appealing across the party, an asset Rubio is now jeopardizing. Here is a further irony. Rubio originally sponsored comprehensive immigration reform because, in the wake of the 2012 election, Republican elites sensed an existential demographic threat to their long-term well-being. They called upon Rubio to save them, and he answered the call. Instead, the party base revolted, and the debacle set back Rubios career trajectory. Now Rubio has recovered, but party elites are calling on him once again to save them from an existential threat this time in the form of a prospective Trump nomination and Rubio is again risking his standing with many of the same voters who turned against him three years ago. If Rubio manages to prevent Trump from winning a majority of the delegates, then Kasich will be poised to benefit. Suppose that on March 15, Kasich wins Ohio while Rubio loses Florida. Then Rubio (whose campaign has vowed to win his home state) might have to drop out, and Kasich might find himself positioned as the primary non-Trump candidate. Alternatively, if Kasich wins Ohio and Rubio wins Florida or loses but decides to stay in the race anyway then the fight could simply last until the convention. And even if he brings few delegates to Cleveland, Kasich might wind up as the consensus choice. A bitter delegate fight to deny Trump the nomination will ultimately require the party to settle on a standard-bearer who can placate Trump or, at least, his enthusiasts. And Kasichs strategy of making no enemies within the party generally, and of making nice with Trump in particular, would render him the perfect choice to heal the breach. Lady Gaga. Photo: Jason Merritt/Getty Images At tonights Oscars, Lady Gaga brought survivors of campus rape onstage with her while she performed her Oscar-nominated Til It Happens to You. Her powerful song was the theme for the documentary The Hunting Ground, which examined the issue of rape on college campuses. Vice-President Joe Biden introduced the performance. The VP has been a vocal advocate for the White Houses Its On Us campaign against sexual assault and rape culture. Lets change the culture, he demanded in his introductory remarks. In the past few years, the issue of campus rape has rocketed into the public eye. As of last April, 106 universities and colleges in the U.S. were under investigation for mishandling reported sexual assaults. Whether it was Emma Sulkowicz hauling a mattress in protest of Columbia Universitys handling of her rape, or Rolling Stones botched expose about UVA, discussion of sexual assault and rape culture, and debate about how to handle it, was front and center. Lady Gaga has talked openly and eloquently about her own sexual assault, and shes been outspoken in her support for fellow survivors, most recently Kesha. When I look out onto the sea of beautiful young faces that I get to sing and dance for, I see a lot of people who have secrets that are killing them, Gaga said, talking about the film at a panel in December. We dont want you to keep your pain inside and let it rot like an old apple on your counter, you know? Its like, just get rid of all that trash. Lets get rid of it together. Expand Photo Most Divisive Hem: Alicia Vikander in Custom Louis Vuitton Belle memes aside, Vikander continued her winning red-carpet street in custom Louis Vu... more Most Divisive Hem: Alicia Vikander in Custom Louis Vuitton Belle memes aside, Vikander continued her winning red-carpet street in custom Louis Vuitton (shes the face of the house.) Her sequined yellow tea-length dress was unexpected, though its bubble hem was definitely divisive on Twitter. Photo: Jason Merritt/2016 Getty Images Expand Photo Most Grown-Up: Saoirse Ronan in Custom Calvin Klein Collection Where did the time go? The Brooklyn star adopted her most adult look yet- body-hug... more Most Grown-Up: Saoirse Ronan in Custom Calvin Klein Collection Where did the time go? The Brooklyn star adopted her most adult look yet- body-hugging green sequins (which Ronan said she wore in tribute to her native Ireland), quirklily mismatched earrings, and bombshell hair and makeup. We'd like to think she took a page from her appearance Photo: Jason Merritt/2016 Getty Images Where did the time go? Thestar adopted her most adult look yet- body-hugging green sequins (which Ronan said she wore in tribute to her native Ireland), quirklily mismatched earrings, and bombshell hair and makeup. We'd like to think she took a page from her appearance on the cover of our fashion issue. Expand Photo Best Secret Pants: Lady Gaga in Brandon Maxwell She has worn her stylists designs on the red carpet before, and this time Gaga selected Maxwell... more Best Secret Pants: Lady Gaga in Brandon Maxwell She has worn her stylists designs on the red carpet before, and this time Gaga selected Maxwells jumpsuit gown with secret pants among five custom designs he made for her. Its one of the most walkable ensembles Mother Monster has probably ever worn, and she certainly seemed jazzed about it. Photo: VALERIE MACON Expand Photo Most Disappointing Full-Length Shot: Brie Larson in Gucci Points for the deep blue tone and the fashion-forward slip dress bodice. But the jewele... more Most Disappointing Full-Length Shot: Brie Larson in Gucci Points for the deep blue tone and the fashion-forward slip dress bodice. But the jeweled belt and ruffled skirt soured us on the look. Photo: Jeff Kravitz/2016 Jeff Kravitz Expand Photo Biggest Miss: Kerry Washington in Atelier Versace This was a rare miss for the usually on-point Washington: the bodice was a breastplate meets a ... more Biggest Miss: Kerry Washington in Atelier Versace This was a rare miss for the usually on-point Washington: the bodice was a breastplate meets a butchers apron (and looked misaligned), and the side slit was a little too Ashley Judd for our tastes. Photo: Jason Merritt/2016 Getty Images Expand Photo Latest: Jennifer Lawrence in Dior We almost missed Lawrence on the red carpet (the hashtag #wheresjlaw was even popping up.) Considering all that... more Latest: Jennifer Lawrence in Dior We almost missed Lawrence on the red carpet (the hashtag #wheresjlaw was even popping up.) Considering all that anticipation, we were kinda "meh" on her eventual entrance in this lacy Dior. It's not bad, but still far from her most memorable look. Photo: George Pimentel/WireImage Expand Photo Best Piping: Jared Leto in Gucci Leto incorporated a different kind of pipe into his lifestyle with a piped black tux and a rosette in place of h... more Best Piping: Jared Leto in Gucci Leto incorporated a different kind of pipe into his lifestyle with a piped black tux and a rosette in place of his customary bow tie. Plus, he accessorized with Gucci designer Alessandro Michele. Photo: Jason Merritt/2016 Getty Images Expand Photo Best '70s Throwback: Rachel McAdams in August Getty Atelier McAdams is light-years away from her schlumpy newsroom attire in Spotlight in this st... more Best '70s Throwback: Rachel McAdams in August Getty Atelier McAdams is light-years away from her schlumpy newsroom attire in Spotlight in this stately high-necked, high-slit number. Bonus points for choosing a lesser-known designer for the big night. Photo: VALERIE MACON Expand Photo Best Plunging V: Charlize Theron in Dior We saw Charlize Theron doing a shot on the red carpet, presumably toasting to her own slayage in this sc... more Best Plunging V: Charlize Theron in Dior We saw Charlize Theron doing a shot on the red carpet, presumably toasting to her own slayage in this scarlet Dior gown that only her mile-long form could do justice. Photo: Jason Merritt/2016 Getty Images Expand Photo Most Groundbreaking Florals: Cate Blanchett in Armani Prive Blanchett can always be counted on to do something different, and here she mad... more Most Groundbreaking Florals: Cate Blanchett in Armani Prive Blanchett can always be counted on to do something different, and here she made the tired concept of a flower-bedecked dress look new and even a little avant-garde. Photo: Jason Merritt/2016 Getty Images Expand Photo Worst Oil Slick: Kate Winslet in Ralph Lauren When you're there to cheer on noted environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio, this motif seems like a mis... more Worst Oil Slick: Kate Winslet in Ralph Lauren When you're there to cheer on noted environmentalist Leonardo DiCaprio, this motif seems like a misfire. Photo: Jason Merritt/2016 Getty Images Expand Photo Most Glowing Pregnant Woman: Chrissy Teigen in Marchesa As much as it probably sucks to be pregnant at the Oscars (man, the foot-swelling alone),... more Most Glowing Pregnant Woman: Chrissy Teigen in Marchesa As much as it probably sucks to be pregnant at the Oscars (man, the foot-swelling alone), everyone's favorite cheese-wheel-loving cool girl made it look easy in rosy Marchesa--and John Legend holding her train didn't hurt. Photo: Jeff Kravitz/2016 Jeff Kravitz Expand Photo Most Not Tilda Swinton, Ahem: Sandy Powell Embarrassingly identified as Tilda Swinton by E's commenters, the Carol costume designer looked like ... more Most Not Tilda Swinton, Ahem: Sandy Powell Embarrassingly identified as Tilda Swinton by E's commenters, the Carol costume designer looked like a cross between Bowie and Vivienne Westwood in her smart, shiny suit and red cropped 'do. Photo: Todd Williamson/2016 Todd Williamson A statement of 'Fun' night for me means that I can enjoy my delightful dinner with someone special, listen to the funky music plus... Wines of Portugal tasting: buyers urged to check out Tejo Retailers have been urged to take a look at Portugals Tejo region at the upcoming Wines of Portugal tasting in London. Regions like Douro, Dao and Vinho Verde may have enjoyed more limelight in the UK in recent years, but the marketing agency working for Tejo says it offers the right blend of volume, quantity and competitive pricing for the UK market and is spearheading a big push on the British retail trade. Tejo is located east of Lisbon and further south than Douro and Dao, and is split into three defined regions Bairro, Charneca and Campo. It was formerly known as Ribatejo but has simply been called Tejo since 2009, a tribute to the river that has defined its landscape, climate and economy for centuries and is also credited for shaping the distinct Tejo terroir. The DOC regulations allow a fairly wide range of grape varieties: for whites the local Fernao Pires, Alicante Branco, Arinto, Talia, Trincadeira das Pratas and Vital, but also Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, and alongside the traditional red Castelao and Trincadeira it is possible to use Aragonez, Touriga Nacional, Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot. Julie Kendrick, managing director at JK marketing, which markets the region, said: Tejo is an area of Portugal where you can still find producers with volume, quality and good pricing. This is the new upcoming and exciting region of Portugal! Certainly the region where Europe meets the New World. This region offers an array of opportunities for buyers. It is investing in the UK market this year and wants to help its producers find more distribution and business partners. The diversity of wines that Portugal itself offers is reflected in this region, which has products from entry level to premium wines and for all occasions. Tejo is a region with producers defining their identity and offering products, which are just what the market wants. One of the faces behind the Tejo region, Diogo Campilho, will join wine commentator Charles Metcalfe to guide buyers through the wines and educate them on the region at the Wines of Portugal tasting, which is held at RHS Lindley Hall in London on Wednesday, March 2. Tejo will occupy tables 86-88, where there will be five producers seeking UK distribution. They are as follows, with notes from Kendrick: Adega do Cartaxo They are a cooperative with land extending to 1,000 ha. Their production is around 7 million litres of which, within our diverse range, 70% is red. "We believe in our people, investing in them and in the technology we need to create the best wines possible. Genuine and authentic: This describes the wines of the Adega Cooperativa do Cataxo". New wine to discover: Plexus. Fiuza & Bright Very good quality for an accessible price. They export 50% of all our production and are keen to find a good partner in the UK. New vintages to taste: Fiuza Tinta Miuda 2015, Fiuza Alicante Bouschet /Touriga Nacional 2015, Fiuza Alvarinho 2015, Fiuza Touriga Nacional/Merlot. Quinta da Alorna Quinta da Alorna combines a long tradition of wine growing and modern winemaking techniques. The estate was established in 1723 by D. Pedro de Almeida, viceroy of India and the 1st Marquis of Alorna. It is now the largest vineyard in the Tejo region (220 ha), growing a wide variety of grapes and producing several nationally and internationally recognised wines. Quinta da Alorna exports around 50% of its production to 28 markets including the US, Sweden, Netherlands, China and Brazil. Two new wines to discover: Sauvignon Blanc and Alvarinho Quinta da Ribeirinha Quinta da Ribeirinha is a family based company. The vineyards are planted on clay-limestone soil, and they have a dry Mediterranean climate. They combine innovation and technology with the experience and knowledge learned over generations. The vines grow on an integrated production system in which the use of chemicals is minimal, saving the environment and looking after human health. Quinta do Casal Monteiro Established in 1979, Quinta do Casal Monteiro bottles limited production vintages exclusively from its 80 ha property. With an average age of 35 years, the vineyards are located in fertile alluvial sandy clay soil, rooting in an unusual combination and resulting in a low yield production of high quality wine. Moreover, the characteristic of the sub-Mediterranean temperate climate and its proximity to the river Tagus provides the wines with their own singular identity, revealed in both the lush aromas and the complex palate layered by a superb acidity. They are excellent food companions. Related articles: Rihanna Reply Thread Link lmao Reply Parent Thread Link I'm not here as much anymore and I clearly missed something but it's ok lol. Reply Parent Thread Link lmao Reply Parent Thread Link lol Reply Parent Thread Link lol Reply Parent Thread Link let's not Reply Parent Thread Link I'm a stereotypical pisces through and through. love my sign! Reply Thread Link lol Same. I match it to a T. Reply Parent Thread Link me tooo, i love being a pisces! lol Edited at 2016-02-29 08:10 pm (UTC) Reply Parent Thread Link lol me too bb Reply Parent Thread Link same Reply Parent Thread Link Me too. ;* Reply Parent Thread Link me too lol Reply Parent Thread Link Same bb. Love. Reply Parent Thread Link Me too lol Reply Parent Thread Link me too tho I always play tough when I feel like crying lol Reply Parent Thread Link emotional, shy, romantic, a dreamer, etc Reply Parent Thread Link same and so is my bf. Reply Parent Thread Link me too. i wouldn't trade it for anything. Reply Parent Thread Link yep, me too. Reply Parent Thread Link same lol Reply Parent Thread Link same Reply Parent Thread Link same hehe Reply Parent Thread Link I have ZERO Pieces in my life. Must mean you guys are really great people and unproblematic. KUDOS PIECES! Reply Thread Link lmao sis Reply Parent Thread Link Gemini, with ALL GEMINI FRIENDS (minus a Virgo, Scorpio and Sag) it's a mess, we all hate each other, lol. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link lmao same. i'm a Virgo sun + Scorpio rising tho, so of course i'm a fucking mess lol. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Lol I don't think I do either. I'm a Sag with a lot of Gemini and Aries around though so life is...interesting Reply Parent Thread Link mte looking at this list, i want more pisces in my life! Reply Parent Thread Link same here! ZERO pisces....and all the people on this list are great so I am sad :((( I need some pisces friends!! I have too flaky libras in my (taurus) life lol Reply Parent Thread Link I also don't know any Pisces. :( Reply Parent Thread Link Pisces and Geminis are the worst mix ever. They're so emotional! Like why do you guys have so many damn feelings? I want to like Pisces but I can't. Sorry guy :( Reply Thread Link i'm a pisces and i'm dead on the inside Reply Parent Thread Link Those are the best Pisces! I can't deal with the overly emotional Pisces! I had one kick me out of her damn house at 3am bc I told her she looked desperate. In my defense she did. Reply Parent Thread Link I'm a Pisces and though I have a lot of ~feelings, I'm not emotional, if that makes sense. Reply Parent Thread Link This is funny but I actually had to learn how to express my emotions bc I had a flat face and a pretty monotone speech pattern as a kid. In public I'm expressive as fuck because it helps me communicate but at home with my boyfriend when I can be be chill and not so expressive and shit I struggle to do the deep, romantic connection stuff sometimes bc I was taught by my family that was a form of weakness. Thank god for therapy. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link my mom is a gemini and i'm a pisces. we have our rough days lol Reply Parent Thread Expand Link lol we don't know why either Reply Parent Thread Link theres only one gemini i love, and thats my mama. must be the rest of her signs, the rest of yall are demons. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link I have a Taurus sun sign but like aaaaall my other planets are Gemini. It's a mess tbh lmao Reply Parent Thread Link You hurt my feelings with this comment and now I'm uncontrollably sobbing at my desk. Reply Parent Thread Link Geminis/Virgos are by far worse tho. that stick up their asses just won't let them appreciate us! Reply Parent Thread Link fuuuck don't tell me that, I'm a Pisces and just started dating a Gemini Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Why does everyone hate Gemini? Sorry you guys only get to be yourself while we can adapt to anything :( Reply Parent Thread Expand Link ita. as a pisces i dated two geminis back-to-back and we couldn't have been more mismatched. Reply Parent Thread Link It's probably for the best. Reply Parent Thread Link That's my Sun (gemini) and moon (pisces). It's not a good mix at all haha Reply Parent Thread Link I love these posts. I'll wait till June to ask you shit tho. Let the pisces have your undivided attention. Reply Thread Link Me and Mariah have the same bday. :) Reply Parent Thread Link Omg I just spent like 5 minutes trying to figure out what Piscean meant lol Reply Thread Link I dated a Pisces once. He was so boring, nothing to talk about. But then again he was v pretty so that's probably why. Reply Thread Link yesss your icon tho <3 Reply Parent Thread Link lol because no one likes her enough to gif her Reply Parent Thread Link It was my birthday yesterday, dreamer 4 lyfe Reply Thread Link It was also MY birthday yesterday! Happy birthday! Pisces are the best. Reply Parent Thread Link yay happy birthday to us!!! we are tbh. basically irl mermaids Reply Parent Thread Link happy belated bday bb<3 Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Happy belated birthday! Reply Parent Thread Link happy birthday for yesterday!! Reply Parent Thread Expand Link happy belated! <3 Reply Parent Thread Link happy bday!<3 mine will be tomorrow..kinda scared to turn 27 Reply Parent Thread Link happy belated! Reply Parent Thread Link Happy belated birthday! Reply Parent Thread Link Mine too bb. Happy b'day! Love. Reply Parent Thread Link me too! happy bday fellow pisces! Reply Parent Thread Link Happy belated birthday! Reply Parent Thread Link most pisces people i met are super extraverted and we don't get along like awkward silences are fine we don't have to talk all the time and they get way too personal/emotional way too quick i'm a scorpio i can't deal with that shit water signs compatibility my ass Edited at 2016-02-29 07:58 pm (UTC) Reply Thread Link I'm a Gemini and I agree. They really tell you the MOST personal stuff sometimes. Like I don't care. Reply Parent Thread Link Usually Pieces are not ones to let people in very easily and harbor their emotional baggage. Sooo maybe you met a weird one Reply Parent Thread Expand Link That's funny, my friend is a Scorpio and I am a Pisces and the exact opposite is true for our relationship! She's so talkative, hates awkward silences, and shares a lot of personal stuff. Reply Parent Thread Link my bff is scorpio and i'm a pisces, we get along so well lol. she def talks so much more then me though and is the more outspoken one. Reply Parent Thread Link lol that's why I love them I can ask ANYTHING it's great Reply Parent Thread Link i don't believe in this, but it's amusing that most of my friends are scorpios and capricorns. Reply Parent Thread Link Pisces celebs I like make me sad because they were so close to being Aquarians and you know, just a bit more awesome. Reply Thread Link I could've made the Aquarius cut but I was overdue by 3 weeks & they had to do a c section. How different would my life have been? Would I prefer Amazon over Hulu? Would I take my coffee black? Would I have the ability to do anal?? So many questions. Reply Parent Thread Link hahaha I'm a very strong Leo, and my best friend is also as Cancer as can be, so I have a good gauge of the two signs and how different they are. Her birthday was my due date, so I often wonder whether I held on for those two extra weeks because I absolutely HAD to be a Leo. Reply Parent Thread Expand Link ha, by this comment alone i'm willing to bet you have some aquarius placements in your chart Reply Parent Thread Link i feel this way about capricorns mayb because my due date back in the day was 8th of jan.... i was born on the 24th lol Reply Parent Thread Expand Link Electric cars could upend oil markets much sooner than everyone thinks. According to a new report from Bloomberg New Energy Finance (BNEF), the rapid decline in the cost of building batteries for electric vehicles (EVs) will make them cheaper than the internal combustion engine in just a few years. By the 2020s, EVs could beat conventional vehicles on price, a shocking development and a potential epochal shift for energy markets. Battery prices declined by 35 percent in 2015, another impressive feat for the technology as it marches towards both relevance and market share. BNEF believes that EVs on an unsubsidized basis will be just as affordable as a car that runs on gasolinewithin six years. That means that by 2022, BNEF argues, EVs will reach the point of liftoff for sales. The cost-competitive prediction for EVs even assumes that gasoline-powered cars continue to improve efficiency at a rate of 3.5 percent per year. Related: U.S. Unable To Halt ISIS March Towards Libyan Oil The report projects that EVs will control 35 percent of the auto market by 2040. That will be possible because an EV with extended range will cost just $22,000 in todays dollars. Behind those cost declines is the dramatic fall in the prices of batteries. Costs for lithium-ion batteries have plummeted to just $350 per kWh in 2015, a 65 percent cost reduction since 2010. But battery manufacturers are not done yet. By 2030, costs will fall to $120 per kWh, or less than half of todays levels. From there, costs will continue to decline. For oil markets, the conclusions should be alarming. BNEF sums it up succinctly: The electric vehicle revolution could turn out to be more dramatic than governments and oil companies have yet realized. Related: In Spite Of Oil Price Slump, Canadian Oil Output To Increase The oil industry is clearly not planning for the EV revolution. Tom Randall of Bloomberg reported that ConocoPhillips CEO Ryan Lance told him in 2015 that EVs wont have a material impact for another 50 yearsprobably not in his lifetime. But BNEF sees EVs displacing 2 million barrels per day (mb/d) of oil demand as early as 2023. That is just the start. The real pain will come after that point as EV sales start to skyrocket. BNEF estimates that EVs could capture 35 percent of the market by 2040, which would displace 13 mb/d. For an oil market currently in tatters because supply is exceeding demand by a meager 1 to 2 mb/d, the destruction of 13 mb/d of demand should be unsettling, to say the least. EVs present an existential threat. At the same time, the sharp rise in EVs would lead to a surge in demand for electricity, as the 41 million EVs sold in 2040 would need to be routinely charged up. All of those cars could require 1,900 TWh of electricity each day, equivalent to about 8 percent of global electricity demand in 2015. Related: Why Oil Booms And Busts Happen Of course, these are just projections. And as anyone familiar with the projections of the IEA, EIA, or OPEC will tell you, projections are wrong 100 percent of the time. But the exact figures whether its 25, 35, or 45 percent of market share are not the important thing to focus on. The key takeaway is the trend, which points to the potential for rapid growth for EVs, taking ever larger chunks of market share away from oil. The writing is on the wall as a technology, battery costs will continue to decline as manufacturing and the chemistry improves. Oil companies can reduce costs, but commodities dont see costs decline in the same way. Finite natural resources see costs rise as they become scarcer. In the long-term, very few people expect oil to be as cheap as it is today at around $30 per barrel. And to the extent that oil remains cheap indefinitely, it will be because EVs destroy demand. It is cliche at this point, but as the old adage goes: the Stone Age didnt end because we ran out of stones. By Nick Cunningham Of Oilprice.com More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: One week ago, we reported that even as traders were focusing on the daily headline barrage out of OPEC members discussing whether or not they would cut production (they won't) or merely freeze it (at fresh record levels as Russia reported earlier today) a bigger threat in the near-term will be whether the relentless supply of excess oil will force Cushing, and PADD 2 in general, inventory to reach operational capacity. As Genscape added in a recent presentation, when looking specifically at Cushing, the storage facility is virtually operationally full (at 80%) with just 4-5 more months at current inventory build left until the choke point is breached, and as we have reported previously, storage requests for specific grades have already been denied. Goldman summarizes the dire near-term options before the industry as follows: The large builds in gasoline and crude stocks have brought PADD 2 storage utilization near record high levels. While the recent decline in Midcontinent refining margins should help avoid breaching storage capacity, by finally bringing gasoline back into deficit, this will likely only exacerbate the build in crude inventories in coming months and should require further weakness in PADD2 crude prices to spread this build to the USGC. Weaker gasoline demand/exports, or higher margins/runs or finally resilient crude imports/production, could create binding storage issues beyond the intermittent Cushing WTI cash price weakness observed so far, which would require another large leg lower in crude prices to shut production in the Midcontinent and Canada. As we have argued, this continued testing of storage constraints should keep price and margin volatility elevated. Realted: Oil Price And Its Effect On Production However, while the threat from overproduction on soaring crude inventories, or in other words "supply", has been extensively documented, far less has been said about another just as big problem: "demand", or the potential supply-chain bottleneck that will hit the moment refiners finds themselves flooded with too much unwanted product, in turn telling producers they have to turn oil back simply because they have no more capacity. Is this possible? It's already happening. As the WSJ reports in a piece titled "The Big New Threat to Oil Prices: A Glut of Gasoline", refineries in the U.S. Midwest are losing their thirst for oil, posing a new risk for the battered crude market. The Midwest accounts for nearly a quarter of the crude processed in the U.S. and is home to shale producers that have few other outlets for their oil. But refiners there are already swimming in gasoline and other fuel, forcing them to cut back production until the excess can be worked off. In other words, not enough intermediate demand in the supply-chain with the result the same as oversupply: more crude oil is available in the market, worsening a glut that has been undermining oil prices for the past year and a half. As the WSJ adds, "with U.S. crude inventories at the highest level in more than 80 years, some storage hubs have little room left to store oil." This means that storage hubs are now being hit on both sides: from excess production in a global market oversupplied by 3 million barrels daily, and from collapsing demand by the refiners for whom operating at current prices has become uneconomical. The result is that refinery production capacity, while already running at record levels for this time of the year, has tumbled from 98.2% a month ago to just 92.9% last week. This drop is significant because, as the WSJ explains, it marks the first time several refineries in the region have opted to reduce activity for economic reasons a marked change after more than a year of refiners processing as much crude as possible. Here is the problem illustrated: gasoline stocks are literally off the charts in terms of the past 10 year min-max range: ... as refineries operate at a record pace for this time of the year... ... while gasoline demand is well within its past decade range: Related: Argentina Charts Course For Renewable Energy Which means refining production has no choice but to decline, which is precisely what it is doing. Three examples: CVR Refining LP is among the companies that have scaled back. The company said recently that it reduced runs at its 70,000-barrels-a-day refinery in Wynnewood, Okla., by as much as 10,000 barrels a day. It doesnt make sense to process something when youre not making anything on it, Chief Executive Jack Lipinski said during a Feb. 18 earnings call. HollyFrontier Corp. said Wednesday that it has trimmed production at refineries in Kansas and New Mexico due to lower margins. PBF Energy Inc. Chief Executive Tom Nimbley said during a conference call on Feb. 11 that the industry turned the dials to make more gasoline in the last quarter of 2015 and overshot demand. The gasoline is not going to the consumer, he said. Its going into a tank. The first immediate consequence of overproduction is dropping margins as refiners try to sell their product into a glutted market, and sure enough refining margins are lower throughout the country this year, including in the Gulf Coast region, where more than 50% the countrys refining capacity is concentrated. But refiners there have more choices when it comes to buying crude oil and can substitute cheaper options if they become available. And they can put fuel on tankers to sell overseas if supplies build up too much. In other areas, there are fewer viable options: recent cutbacks have been enough to nudge gasoline prices higher in the Midwest, though its still cheap in some places: Gas was selling for as low as $1.11 a gallon on Wednesday in Granite Falls, Minn., according to Gasbuddy.com. Gasoline futures for March delivery rose 4.6% on Wednesday to $1.0104 a gallon, up from a seven-year low hit earlier this month. This again brings us to the most important commercial hub in the US, located in the heart of the Midwest in Cushing, Oklahoma. "Many industry players and analysts think refiners will ramp up production after spring maintenance and they expect activity to pick up in the summer as cheap gasoline spurs Americans to take more road trips. But for producers in the Midwest and Canada, any decline in Midwest refining activity is worrisome. The region is home to the crucial oil storage hub at Cushing, Okla.the delivery point for the U.S. oil futures contract." Sellers in the futures market can either deliver physical crude or buy futures to offset their obligations. A lack of storage space can force buyers out of the market and supplies in Cushing are at their highest level ever. Analysts warn U.S. oil futures could fall further as Cushing nears full capacity. This is precisely what we have been warning about for months, or as Paul Horsnell, global head of commodities research at Standard Chartered puts it, "Theres a feeling of various bits of ice cracking all at once" in the oil market, with both crude-oil and gasoline inventories at extremely high levels...People are worried about a short-term issue, particularly in the U.S., particularly at Cushing." Related: Horizontal Land Rig Count Summary 26 February 2016 The good news is that we are likely very close to the worst case scenario playing out: refiners are unlikely to start buying more crude in the coming weeks. Instead, many will begin seasonal maintenance ahead of the busy summer-driving season. That could leave some oil producers scrambling to find places to store their output. Prices in some regions might have to drop sharply to justify the cost of shipping the oil to where it can be stored. Which means there are just two options: find some undiscovered storage, or hope demand picks up. On the first, there is always hope: well just look for every other nook and cranny throughout North America to stuff crude oil into, said Andy Lipow, president of consulting firm Lipow Oil Associates in Houston. The market is just not going to like it." However, it is the second that is the biggest wildcard: refiners profit on the difference between oil prices and fuel prices. Oil prices have dropped 70% since mid-2014 to around $32 a barrel currently, but robust demand for gasoline kept prices at the pump from falling as quickly last year, boosting refiner margins. However, analysts question whether demand will increase strongly this year, especially given broader concerns about sluggish economic growth. Which brings us to the punchline: on a four-week average basis, U.S. gasoline demand fell in January compared with the year before, according to Energy Information Administration estimates. This despite the alleged increase in US consumer purchasing power or the so-called "tax-savings" from low gasoline prices, which should have boosted overall gasoline demand. It has not. Which is why with the market having debated the supply issue for over a year, and overanalyzed the OPEC and non-OPEC supply question to death, what virtually nobody has discussed is the just as important demand side of the equation, perhaps because nobody dares to admit the obvious: the much needed rebound in demand is just not there. If that is indeed the case, expect a sharp, violent move lower in the price of oil in the coming weeks as the fundamental oil reality finally catches up with the imaginary world of stop-hunting, momentum-igniting, algorithmic daytraders By Zerohedge More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: Back from a week in the wilds of Myanmar (more on that in Prime Meridians this coming weekend). To find a lot of action happening globally in both energy and mining. One story however, stands out in both size and strangeness. From a spot thats seen a lot of unusual developments in the resource sector lately. Venezuela. Late in February, I described how the Venezuelan government had created a new, military company for oil and mining ventures. And late last week, the countrys central bank announced a major new initiative to revolutionize the countrys gold mining industry. Related: Argentina Charts Course For Renewable Energy That involves a long-standing player in Venezuelas gold sector: Spokane, Washington-based Gold Reserve Inc. A company that worked in the country from 1992 to 2009, proving up the 10 million-ounce Brisas gold project. The Venezuelan government revoked Gold Reserves production permits for Brisas in 2008. Causing the company to file an arbitration claim which was upheld by the World Bank in 2014, with an order for Venezuela to pay $740 million in damages to Gold Reserve. But Venezuelas central bank President Nelson Merentes told Bloomberg on Friday that there is a new approach to the project. With Merentes saying that a joint venture has been struck whereby Gold Reserve will retain 40 to 45 percent interest in the project, with the government taking a 55 to 60 percent stake. Related: The Allure Of Shale Is Wearing Off The most intriguing part of the announcement however, was Merentes saying that Gold Reserve will partner with the largest gold producer in the world and the largest copper producer as part of mine development. Merentes also said that the deal will bring $5 billion in investment funds into the country. With $2 billion going to project development, and $3 billion going to the state. This sounds bizarre in the utmost suggesting that incoming players are going to pay billions for the right to operate Brisas. Which would represent a heavy pricetag, even for a 10 million-ounce mine. Related: Oil Price And Its Effect On Production Equally interesting is the identity of the supposed backers here. With Merentes refusing to name names, but noting that the major partners will come from the U.S., Germany and Canada. (For the record, the worlds largest gold miner is Barrick Gold, while the worlds largest copper producer is Chiles Codelco.) All of which makes this an outrageous-sounding but intriguing story. Watch to see what details actually materialize here. Heres to talking big. By Dave Forest More Top Reads From Oilprice.com: David Duke is a right wing admitted racist and former Grand Wizard of the Ku Klux Klan hate group. pressed three times on whether he'd distance himself from the Ku Klux Klan tand against the KKK, we cannot trust him CNN reports: The Sunday uproar started when Trump was asked by Tapper whether he would disavow Duke and other white supremacist groups that are supporting his campaign."Just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke, OK?" Trump said.Trump was-- but never mentioned the group in his answers."I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists," he said. "So I don't know. I don't know -- did he endorse me, or what's going on? Because I know nothing about David Duke; I know nothing about white supremacists."Duke had detailed his support for Trump in a Facebook post on Thursday "I think he deserves a close look by those who believe the era of political correctness needs to come to an end," Duke wrote.He touted Trump's strength on immigration, breaking up "Jewish dominated lobbies and super PACS that are corrupting and controlling American politics," preventing war with Russia, exposing media "lies" and ensuring "that White-Americans are allowed to preserve and promote their heritage and interests just as all other groups are allowed to do."The Anti-Defamation League had called on Trump to repudiate the support of Duke, the former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, and other white supremacist groups.Despite what he said Sunday, Trump apparently did know Duke in 2000 -- citing him, as well as Pat Buchanan and Lenora Fulani -- in a statement that year explaining why he had decided to end his brief flirtation with a Reform Party presidential campaign."The Reform Party now includes a Klansman, Mr. Duke, a neo-Nazi, Mr. Buchanan, and a communist, Ms. Fulani. This is not company I wish to keep," Trump said in a statement reported then by The New York Times He had also indicated he knew of Duke during a Friday press conference, when he was asked similar questions and said: "David Duke endorsed me? OK, all right. I disavow, OK?"After his appearance on "State of the Union," Trump highlighted that Friday comment in a tweet, saying he does disavow Duke.During the interview, though, asked if he'd broadly distance himself from Duke and white supremacists, Trump demurred, saying he knew nothing about their support for his bid for the Republican presidential nomination."I have to look at the group. I mean, I don't know what group you're talking about," Trump said. "You wouldn't want me to condemn a group that I know nothing about. I'd have to look. If you would send me a list of the groups, I will do research on them and certainly I would disavow if I thought there was something wrong. You may have groups in there that are totally fine -- it would be very unfair. So give me a list of the groups and I'll let you know."Tapper responded: "OK. I'm just talking about David Duke and the Ku Klux Klan here, but --"And Trump said: "Honestly, I don't know David Duke. I don't believe I've ever met him. I'm pretty sure I didn't meet him. And I just don't know anything about him."Trump's comments came two days before 12 states -- largely Southern -- vote on Super Tuesday. If he defeats Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and Rubio in most or all of those states, Trump could become a near lock for the Republican nomination.Rubio slammed Trump during a rally in Virginia, highlighting Trump's 2000 comment about Duke as he pointed out that Trump did know of the white supremacist leader."We cannot be the party that nominates someone who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," Rubio said."By the way, not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable. How are we going to grow our party with a nominee that refuses to condemn the Ku Klux Klan?" he said. "Don't tell me he doesn't know what the Ku Klux Klan is. This is serious."And on Sunday night Sen. Tim Scott, a South Carolina Republican who is backing Rubio -- and one of two African-American senators -- in a statement blasted Trump's response."Any candidate who cannot immediately condemn a hate group like the KKK does not represent the Republican Party, and will not unite it. If Donald Trump can't take a sto stand up for America against Putin, Iran or ISIS."Cruz hit Trump on Twitter, saying, "Really sad. @realDonaldTrump you're better than this. We should all agree, racism is wrong, KKK is abhorrent."Asked by CNN's Alisyn Camerota on Monday whether he thought Trump's tweet disavowing Duke was enough, Ohio Gov. John Kasich said "I think so." But then he berated Trump's effect on the race."I don't know what's in his head. All I know is that white supremacist groups have no place in our society and clearly not in the Republican Party," Kasich said on "New Day.""And you know it's just one controversy over another. But I have to tell you, Alisyn, I'm sort of tired of what I see, the name calling and what I consider to be childishness when we are running for president of the United States. He obviously should have immediately condemned him. I can't tell you what the heck happened. But this is like every day, it's like a circus. "RNC communications director Sean Spicer responded to criticism on Twitter leveled at the RNC over Trump's comments, saying, "Are you kidding. Of course the @gop has and does denounce these hate groups/people."Democratic presidential contenders were also lashing out at Trump. Bernie Sanders tweeted: "America's first black president cannot and will not be succeeded by a hatemonger who refuses to condemn the KKK."In January, a white nationalist super PAC paid for a pro-Trump robocall to Iowa voters that said, "We don't need Muslims. We need smart, well-educated white people who will assimilate to our culture. Vote Trump."It was a reference to Trump's proposal to ban Muslims from entering the United States.In an interview with CNN's Erin Burnett at the time, Trump disavowed those robocalls."I would disavow that, but I will tell you people are extremely angry," he had said.In Sunday's interview on CNN, Trump also detailed what he'd look for in a vice presidential nominee, saying he'd want someone with "a little bit of an inside track" to getting legislation approved by Congress -- an indication Trump could pick a current politician."Conceptually, I like the idea of a political person to go along with my abilities," he said.Trump also said he has no plans to release his tax returns, despite pressure from Cruz and Rubio, because IRS audits are ongoing.He said he has been audited "almost every year for 10 or 12 years.""Maybe it's because I'm very conservative, maybe it's because I'm tea party. ... I don't know what it is, but I have been singled out," Trump said. "Until the audit is completed, obviously I'm not giving my papers."He did say, though, that his campaign is likely to release a list of his charitable contributions "sometime in the next week."Maine Writer Cliff Notes version of the above from the Republican National Committee: It's easy to say the RNC "disavows" an affiliation with hate groups. Nevertheless, the RNC does not walk the walk.Instead, the RNC must also, unequivocally, disavow Donald Trump's presidential campaign. Republicanism is now branded as Trumponianism, and will remain tainted until the Grumpy Obstructionist Party denounces bigotry in all its forms, not just the hate groups, but the salient messaging as well. For great food in a relaxed setting come to Singapore Marriott Tang Plaza Hotels alfresco poolside restaurant- Pool Grill. From 15 Feb- 13 Mar, Pool Grill is inviting all guests to embark on a gastronomical journey through the culinary paradise of Spain as Guest Chef Albert Ortiz curates an array of mouthwatering Spanish delicacies that will captivate both your palates and hearts. Be it a business luncheon, a catch up with friends or a romantic dinner, the weekly 3-Course Set Lunches, as well as 4-Course Set Dinner are packed with freshness and flavour in every bite. Flavours of Spain at Pool Grill Spanish Set Lunch and Dinner 15 February 13 March 2016 3-Course Lunch: $35++ per person 4-Course Dinner: $58++ per person Chef Albert, hailing all the way from Barcelona, is no stranger to traditional Spanish cuisine with 12 impeccable years of experience in established restaurants in Spain and Singapore. Chef Albert began his career in 2004 as a Commis Chef and his passion, along with determination in delivering the finest Spanish food propelled him forward to where he is today a renowned Executive Chef for traditional Spanish cuisine. Chef Alberts play on ingredients, flavours and textures in his creations and affable personality has won the hearts of many. He runs the kitchen with great passion, stands by age-old art of cooking and believes in preparing everything from scratch for the best quality. Let Chef Albert take you through a gastronomical journey with ingredients inspired and rooted from Spain that will leave your palate in a tasteful fiesta. For guests who fancy authentic Spanish delicacies set amidst a luxurious resort-style ambience by the pool, do gear up for one of the most amazing experiences as you bite into decadent Lunch highlights comprising of Pan-seared Salmon in Cider Vinegar, Garlic Mousseline Sauce & Green Asparagus; Slow-Cooked Beetroot with Whipped Goat Cheese, Caramelised Walnuts & Dill; Stewed Veal Tongue with Mash Potato & Red Wine; Char-grilled Squid & Eggplant Puree with Pipirrana & Black Ink Vinaigrette; Home-made Tagliatelle Pasta, Chorizo Carbonara, Gorgonzola Cheese & Poached Egg; and more. Divine desserts encompass of Crema Catalan Brulee with Apple Granite on Toast; Pijama Catalan Egg Pudding with Whipped Cream & Caramelised Pineapple; Bourbon Vanilla Ice Cream with Arabica Coffee Foam, Cointreau Gelee & Chocolate Soil, and more. For a memorable, romantic experience under the enchanting night sky, guests may opt for the 4-Course Dinner consisting of crowd pleasers such as Grilled Octopus with Crusty Pork Jowl, Buttered Mash Potato & Smoked Spanish Paprika Oil; Pan-Seared Scallop with Sofrito Puree, Chorizo Migas Caviar Oil & Dill; Char-grilled Black Codfish with Garlic Ilauna Mousseline, Grilled Japanese Leek, Braised Beef Cheek, Olive Oil Crashed Potato, Baby Carrots & Passion Fruit; Dark Chocolate Ice Cream, Char-grilled Banana, Gorgonzola Cheese; Caramelised Butter Bread and more. APPETISERS cured spanish mackerel, smoked eggplant mayo, truffle caviar blini pan-seared scallop, "sofrito" puree, chorizo "migas" caviar oil dill STARTERS grilled octopus, crusty pork jowl, buttered mashed potato, smoked spanish paprila oil smoked salmon mi-cuit, spinach, black tea cream, whipped goat cheese, candied grapefruit MAINS braised beef cheek, olive oil crashed potato, baby carrots, passion fruit char-grilled black codfish, garlic "llauna" moussline, grilled Japanese leek DESSERT dark chocolate icecream, char-grilled banana, gorgonzola cheese, caramelised butter bread A version of this story originally ran in 2016. Last weekend, after years of driving by the giraffe on Lincoln Memorial Drive, I also noticed a sign hung from the chain-link fence enclosing the yard. The sign reads, "Free the Giraffe." Intrigued, I stopped by the house on East Back Bay Street, rang the door bell and eventually left a note, asking if the owner would call me to share the story of the bright, yellow structure. Three days later, Patricia Van Alyea, who co-owns the house and the giraffe gave me a call. Patricia and her late husband, Thomas Van Alyea, bought the giraffe in 1969 or 1970 on a whim. They were driving on I-94 west of the city and saw it outside a business selling playground equipment. The couple had two small children at the time, who are now 49 and 52, and spontaneously pulled off the road to buy the long-necked climber. "We fell in love with the giraffe immediately," says Patricia. "Its funny, because its not like we had a thing for giraffes before, we just loved this one as soon as we saw it." Patricia and her husband were married in 1962 and moved to the house which was, at the time, owned by Thomas grandmother. Thomas passed away a few years ago and Patricia remains the sole owner, along with other properties in the neighborhood. Thomas was the son of architect Thomas Van Alyea, Sr., who designed hundreds of homes on the North Shore and Milwaukee's East Side. His mother, Margaret Fitch Van Alyea, wrote a column for the now-defunct Milwaukee Sentinel. The Van Alyeas moved the giraffe into their massive yard where their children played on it for a decade. At the time, the yard was filled with trees one had a tree house perched in it a sandbox and a few pets goats who lived in a structure. Thomas, an avid recycler and environmentalist, also had a large compost pile in the yard long before most people understood the benefits. Consequently, it was often mistaken for a pile of "garbage" by neighbors and passersby. According to Patricia, it was also misunderstood by "famous" year-round sunbather and Milwaukee icon, the late Dick Bacon, who once complained during a press interview that the Van Alyeas goats were mistreated and fed garbage and cigarette butts. Although this was not true, the Van Alyeas decided it was time to re-home the goats. "After (Dick Bacon) got on his soapbox, we donated the goats to a home for delinquent boys," says Patricia. "Not long after, one of the boys from the home stopped by one day, rang the bell, and told me one of the goats had choked on an apple and died." When the children got older and moved away, the Van Alyeas stopped manicuring the yard. Today, Patricia says there are still orchids in the yard planted by Thomas' grandmother. But, for the most part, its the "giraffes jungle now," says Patricia. It was during the recent Milwaukee Lion "scare" that someone hung the "free the giraffe" sign. Patricia has no idea who painted or hung it. "I find it adorable," she says. "I thought about taking it inside and hanging it in my house, but its so much fun where it is, I have to leave it." At one point, Patricia tried to donate the giraffe to Back Bay Park, which is across the street from her front door, but the gift was not accepted because it did not meet code as a safe-play structure for children. Currently, the giraffe is inaccessible because the stairs leading to the yard are in disrepair. However, Patricia has grandchildren to whom she would like to introduce the giraffe someday, so theres a chance the colorful creature will have company again. And, hopefully, look less lonely from the street. Much as the 1960s marked a turning point for culture in America, the Movido Madrilena marked a new beginning for post-Franco Spain. No longer bound by the strict social structures enforced by the dictator, the Spanish people rode a wave of hedonism and cultural change. Limits were pushed, boundaries were broken, and Madrid became the center for a counter-cultural shift that can still be felt today in its art, theatre and music. Since that time, the culinary scene in Spain has blossomed. During the 1970s chefs like Juan Mari Arzak and Pedro Subijana in the Basque region laid the course by translating concepts from French nouvelle cuisine into "nueva cocina vasca" (new Basque Cuisine). By the 1990s, icons like Ferran Adria, of El Bulli on the Costa Brava, gained international attention for outrageously inventive 30-course menus that showcased both the science and art of high cuisine. He also gave rise and training -- to chefs like Spanish-born Jose Andres, who is often credited for bringing the concept of small plates dining to America. And thanks to the influence of such prominent, talented chefs, dining out today in modern-day Spain continues to be one of the most intellectually stimulating, provocative experiences imaginable. But, even if you cant make it to Madrid, you can glimpse a bit of the cuisine youre missing just by heading to Walkers Point. Movida, 524 S. 2nd St., aims to give Milwaukee a taste of authentic modern Spanish fare with dishes that pay homage to the past while giving a nod to modern techniques and flair. Formerly the home of INdustri Cafe, the exterior remains relatively unchanged, with the exception of the new restaurant sign hanging above the door. But, patrons will see a difference as they walk inside where cream city brick walls are hung with canvas prints of Spanish figures and international celebrities, including Ernest Hemingway, Pablo Picasso and Jacquelyn Kennedy Onassis. "These are things that bring us to Spain, and tell the story of what Spain was," says Andrei Mikhail, one of the owners of Movida. "They tell the stories of famous bullfighters and the culture." The space, he says, also tells the story of a more modern Spain. "Theres no flamenco dancers dancing around your table. No Spanish flag hanging. Now theres a very modern, minimalist sense of decor when you walk in. Theres an attention to detail. "In terms of the atmosphere, and what weve tried to do here (guitarist) Evan Christian is here on Tuesdays. He gives a nice representation of what flamenco is now, incorporating urban beats and strumming into a more modern space." And Mikhail, a native of Fox Point, knows a bit about modern Spain after living there for the past 13 years. "My parents actually met in Spain. My father was from Milwaukee, but he moved there when he was 20," he says. "My mother is from Peru. She moved to Spain and was working there when she met my dad." Throughout his childhood he traveled with his parents to and from Spain. And when he graduated from college and began a career in international investment banking, he made his home in Madrid. "Spain was always my second home," he said. "I had friends there, and I was comfortable with the culture. So, it only made sense." Eventually, after leaving the banking industry, he took a turn in retail ownership and management before accepting a job in management at Serrano 41. "Wed turn over 1,500-2,000 people a night," he says. "It began as a bar and dance club, but a restaurant was added later." Mikhail says the dream to start a restaurant in Milwaukee started there. "I wanted to see something that was a fair representation of Spain," he says. "Theres always been a need in Milwaukee for a Spanish restaurant a place thats true to the authenticity, but offers a view of the contemporary. "The project came to fruition about a year and a half ago," he goes on "Hamad [Fadaifar] and Aaron [Gersonde] came out to Spain to visit. My cousin, Sean [Schoenecker], was there with me. And we all came together and talked about it." Turns out their skill sets created a perfect storm for opening a restaurant. Gersonde has expertise in front of the house, as well as handling the financial end of the business. Meanwhile Fadaifar handles marketing and social media while Mikhail manages the back of the house, including a menu that aims to transport guests on a culinary tour of Spain. According to Mikhail, the must-haves on the menu include the croquetas, gazpacho, lomo tosta (pork loin served on toast with brie and pickled apricots), and the salt cod fritters. "People love their Friday fish fry and salt cod is big in Spain," he says. "So, we feature the salt cod fritters with roasted tomato aioli. Its so delicious, and people are loving it. "We also worked very hard on the concept of our gazpacho. Weve taken lighter, sweeter yellow tomatoes and banana peppers with cucumbers, housemade mini croutons, olive oil and sherry vinegar. Its so refreshing and delicious. Its probably one of the items on the menu Im most proud of." And, although paella is one of the more commercialized foods of Spain, Mikhail says its still an important part of the menu and the story of Spanish cuisine. "People think of paella and they think of chicken and meat and lemon," he says. "But, lemon is actually an American thing. Our Movida paella is a tribute to what people would eat when they worked in the fields. Some of the only game they could get in the fields was snails. So, what we wanted to do was to give people a taste of that. We included frog legs and snails and vegetables not the heavy game that you now find in paella." And unlike other restaurants, which serve paella in the traditional way in large pans, which are meant to feed a crowd Movida will serve the dish in smaller, made-to-order, portions. "As opposed to a large paella, were doing six-inch pans," Mikhail explains, "So, everyone can eat what they like and try different things. Its our way of adapting to the concept for people here." But Mikhail says he wants people to know that theres much more to Spanish cuisine than paella. "Each menu item expresses an element," he says. "Like the classic broken eggs dish that we make with a duck egg. The idea is that you take a chip and you break the egg, and then you scoop it up with the chorizo to eat it. I think the good thing about the menu is that weve really touched on all the regions of Spain." Representation is apparent in the cheese selection which features Mahon, a salty cows milk cheese from the Balearic Islands; Canarejal, a creamy ewes milk cheese made in Castilla y Leon; Cabra al Vino, a red wine brine washed goats milk cheese typically made in the area southeast of Madrid; as well as Manchego and Cabrales, a picante blue cheese from northern Spain. Hams and chorizos will include Chistorra, a quick cured Basque style chorizo, as well as Serrano ham. Iberico ham and Bellota Iberico, a variety made from acorn-fed pork, will also make appearances on the menu. "Well be making frequent changes to the menu," he says. "Theres so many different things to incorporate. Weve been grilling octopus and experimenting with mojo pican, Spanish red pepper sauce from the north of Spain, that wed like to serve with it. Well also be serving potatoes two ways with the sauce." Cocktails will be executed with a similar sense of detail. Dan Beres, formerly of Distil, will work with the crew at Movida for the next six months to solidify a cocktail program thats reminiscent of ones in Spain. "There are gin bars all over Madrid with balloon glasses and signature cocktails," Mikhail notes. "The craft cocktail movement in Spain is growing like wild fire, and the big thing there is gin and tonics." In turn, Movida will offer its own versions of the cocktail including the signature Movida using fresh juices, housemade tonics and syrups. "Its great to see people trying them people who arent gin drinkers being surprised that its so smooth, so unlike what theyve had before," he says. The wine list, which features 25 different wines from all over Spain, was chosen with an equal amount of care. "We were very fortunate that we have a friend who used to be the sommelier at Alinea," Mikhail explains. "And he was gracious enough to give us some time to help us develop the wine list." Pricing on bottles is $25-30 on average; with some priced at $60 and above. The same wines will be available by the glass for $7-10. Wine flights will also be available in the next few weeks, on Wednesdays, so that customers can sample multiple wines. "We built this space to accommodate everyone from date night for two, to larger groups," he says, "And the cool thing is that people are embracing the idea thats so common to Spain coming in and eating in groups with friends." He says the restaurant has been busy since it opened, and that there are plans to expand the restaurants offerings to include brunch, starting in late September or early October. "Well also be doing what higher end restaurants in Spain are doing," he says. "Well serve cava and oysters, and well be doing that on Thursday nights." Ultimately, Mikhail says that their hope is to introduce Milwaukeeans to something different a taste of a Spain they may never have experienced. "Movida," says Mikhail, " it was the Madrid movement when everything changed. People were freed from old ideas, liberated to try new things. That for me and my business partners is what we are trying to do with this restaurant." Movida is open Tuesday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to midnight. Reservations can be made by calling (414) 224-5300. Congressman Alan Grayson, Florida's 8th District (D) (Image by cliff1066 ?) Details DMCA Last summer, my 16-year-old daughter asked me whether I felt the Bern. "Did you leave the stove on again?" I asked her. Now, after listening to We, the People, I feel the Bern. I hereby endorse Bernie Sanders to be our Democratic nominee for President of the United States. I will vote for him as a Super-delegate at the Democratic National Convention. And I enthusiastically join, shoulder to shoulder, his political revolution. Join our political revolution by chipping in $27, Bernie's average contribution, right here and right now >> Perhaps inspired by the Bernie Sanders message of "Not me. Us.", for the past several days, I have appealed to Democrats across the nation to tell me for whom I should vote, as a Super-delegate at the Democratic National Convention. The response has been absolutely overwhelming. Almost 400,000 Democrats voted at GraysonPrimary.com. More than the number who voted in the South Carolina primary. More than the number who voted in the New Hampshire primary and the Nevada caucus combined. The results: Sanders 86%, Clinton 14%. More than just a landslide. An earthquake. We invited not just votes, but also comments. I have been fascinated by the reasons you all gave for your votes. We'll be sharing some of those, in coming days. But in Bernie's case, it boils down to this: America needs a revolution. And only Bernie Sanders, as President of the United States, can make one. For those of you who read these missives (and if you don't, then welcome!) this endorsement may not be entirely unexpected. You know that: (1) I have passed 54 amendments on the Floor of the House in the last three years, more than any other Member. And when Bernie Sanders served in the House, in his time Bernie was the "Amendment King," getting so many good things done in a hopelessly waterlogged institution, again and again. (2) I am the only Member of the U.S. House of Representatives who raised most of his campaign funds from small contributions of less than $200 (in both 2012 and 2014, by the way). Bernie Sanders is the only Member of the U.S. Senate who raised most of his campaign funds from small contributions of less than $200. And this year, Bernie Sanders is the only Presidential candidate who has raised most of his campaign funds from small contributions of less than $200. Bernie and I are not owned and beholden to the billionaires and the multinational corporations and the lobbyists and the special interests. Bernie Sanders is unbought and unbossed. So am I. That is an essential element of the political revolution. Contribute $27 today, to demonstrate that a candidate doesn't have to sell his soul to pay for a winning campaign. Bernie Sanders and I share a goal of building a grassroots movement of people who want to take back our country from the billionaires and the multinational corporations. We want to make elections into about something different: Not the lesser of two evils, but the greater good. When you make a contribution to our campaign, our revolution, you are demonstrating that our democracy is no longer for sale to the highest bidder. But Bernie and I cannot accomplish this on our own. We need your help. We need to declare our Declaration of Independence from the baneful power of Big Money, by coming together one and all. This is the revolution you've been waiting for. The place is here, and the time is now. Chip in $27 to help Bernie and me take back our country from the Big Money, and defeat the oligarchy >> Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Congress Switchboard: 202-224-3121 "Ever growing inequality and intense and growing political distortions have radically aggravated the top-down imbalance of power, undermining democracy. Rob Kall's book, Bottom-Up is a guide to taking back humanity's shared legacy of shared responsibility. A stimulating read and an important contribution!" Gar Alperovitz, author of What Then Must We Do? Straight Talk About the Next American Revolution. Reprinted from To The Point Analyses As the Republican primary plays itself out, cruelty has become a campaign come-on to voters who say they are frustrated and angry with traditional politics. Frustrated and angry feelings short-circuit critical thinking and create a yearning for the quick emotional release that comes with vengeful speech and acts. Donald Trump has become a master manipulator of this situation. Trump has the type of personality that lends itself to using such an approach. He is a bully acting out. You can see this when he denigrates his opponents as losers. On the other hand, he is self-aggrandizing, always describing himself as a winner. And, apparently, he has little capacity for self-reflection about his own speech and actions. Some have described Trump as a textbook case of narcissistic personality disorder. Whether or not that is how you want to label him, he certainly has no problem publicly promoting cruelty. And, a subset of the American population responds positively to his abusive behavior. Here are a few examples: Trump tolerates, and indeed supports physical attacks on opponents who show up at his rallies. He sometimes encourages his supporters to violence by saying that he would like to punch protesters in the face. In the summer of 2015 he promised that if members of Black Lives Matter showed up at his rallies, "they would have a fight on their hands. I don't know if I'll do the fighting myself, or if other people will." That prediction came true in Birmingham, Alabama, in November of last year, when a Black Lives Matter protester, who simply shouted "black lives matter," was roughed up and insulted during a Trump rally. The next day Trump justified the actions of his supporters. "He [the protester] was so obnoxious and so loud" that "maybe he should have been roughed up." At another rally, this one in Vermont on a frigid January 2016 evening, when confronted with protesters, he told his security people to steal their coats before ejecting them. "Throw them out into the cold ... Don't give them their coats ... no coats ... confiscate their coats." Those are specific local displays of Donald Trump's ability to act cruelly and encourage others to do so as well. However, this dangerous trend goes on at a larger scale as well. For instance: Trump has used unwarranted generalizations against groups he is suspicious of -- generalizations that place group members in the sort of danger that comes with public stereotyping. This is particularly true when it comes to Muslims on the one hand and Mexicans on the other. Trump appears to lump all Muslims in the same category as those who, to use his words, are "chopping off our heads in the Middle East." Those who want "to kill us" and "knock out our cities." Such a generalization ratchets up an already dangerous level of Islamophobia and sets the stage for other publicly proclaimed positions such as the closing of U.S. borders to all Muslims until such time as "our country's representatives can figure out what is going on." Actually, there are a lot of people in and out of the U.S. government who already know what is going on. However, because the answer to this question has to do with long-standing, special-interest-driven foreign policies, "our representatives" have, for political reasons, never moved to rectify matters. And, it's questionable whether Trump as president would respond any differently. Trump's generalization about Muslims has apparently helped promote popular acceptance of another particularly cruel and misplaced policy proposal -- the revival of the use of torture (often euphemistically called "enhanced interrogative methods"). Thus, he has recently proclaimed, "Don't tell me it doesn't work -- torture works. Believe me, it works." This was followed by a typical Trumpism: "only a stupid person would say it doesn't work." Just how does he know this with such certainty? Has he ever tortured anybody in order to get specific information? Has he ever been tortured for information he held? Indeed, did he do any research on the subject before passing judgment? The truth about the efficacy of torture is just the opposite. It has been known not to work since the early 18th century when Cesare Beccaria and other Enlightenment figures began to publicly call attention to the fact that there was no evidence that torture produces truthful confessions or other trustworthy information. Most professional interrogators since that time, with the exception of the small cadre of CIA torturers gathered around George W. Bush, have concluded that someone being tortured will tell their tormentors anything he or she thinks will stop the pain, regardless of its veracity. Obviously the consensus of expert opinion on this matter means as little to Donald Trump as it did to George W. Bush.Donald Trump has declared that he wants to deport just about every illegal resident of the United Sates -- of which there is an estimated 11.3 million. Though he claims that he would do this "humanely," the size of such an operation would certainly entail the uprooting of thousands of families and the impoverishment of hundreds of thousands of individuals. In other words, it is one of those socio-political operations that cannot help but result in acts of official cruelty and the encouragement of dangerous xenophobic sentiments. Most of the immigrants at risk are people from Mexico who cross the southern U.S. border clandestinely. Trump's solution is twofold: The American media only mentioned in passing that ISIS had taken over oil fields until Russia started bombing the (white Toyota) trucks transporting oil to Turkey for sale. Similarly, until today, the American media has indulged in all-day, wall to wall coverage of the Donald Trump phenomenon: a billionaire businessman known for shady deals who galvanizes working class American voters. Today, CNN - the only major channel on news duty Sunday afternoons - had to unequivocally criticize Trump for alleging that he "knows nothing" about white supremacist, David Duke, former head of the Ku Klux Klan, who endorsed him. (Note: The "Know Nothings" were members of the semi-secret American Party party. When a member was asked about its activities, he was supposed to reply, "I know nothing." Outsiders called them "Know-Nothings", and the name stuck. In 1855, it was empowered by popular fears that the country was being overwhelmed by German and Irish Catholic immigrants, whom they saw as hostile to republican values, and as being controlled by the Pope in Rome. Mainly active from 1854 to 1856, the movement strove to curb immigration and naturalization, but met with little success. Membership was limited to Protestant men.) Like everything else that Donald Trump has done in the campaign, this slip-up (curiously preceded by "I disavow"), will probably not dent his support, nor is it likely, in the long run (which, in the news cycle is a few hours, at most days) to substantially alter the media's fawning coverage. Trump is such a 'good story', it matters not one whit whether or not he is good for America. At four-thirty, I tweeted that Trump may have seized upon the Duke endorsement as a convenient way to end his campaign, then I remembered that yesterday a poll revealed that 20% of his supporters believe it was a mistake to free the slaves. As for ISIS, like the Taliban whom we supported in order to spoil Russia's party in Afghanistan (which consisted mainly of efforts to liberate women and try to get some modern industry going, efforts that were condemnable because lead by 'communists') we support the latest Islamic avatar in covert ways because it is located on the right end or the political spectrum, pretending to 'know nothing' about the fact that it is a dictatorship more brutal than anything to have hit the front pages in decades, (Hitler, Mussolini, Pol Pot), having expeditiously replaced gas chambers with always ready-to-use head-choppers (as Donald calls them). Our case against ISIS is that it is a 'terrorist organization' that could in future take on the Homeland. We don't mind at all when it inflicts pain on a present enemy such as Bashar al-Assad, whom we want to dislodge from power, or even against the Iran-friendly Iraqi government that we put in place. US power is a one-track system that seeks ever increasing control of greater parts of the world. It is not interested in 'doing good', or even in 'saving the planet' since there are a myriad of other planets out there, virtually guaranteeing that one of them with turn out able to support life. Until that planet is found and made ready for human habitation, expediency dictates that the few dispense their backing for whatever and whoever is likely to keep the many at bay. The smart and beautiful in both parties have been prostrate with the vapors ever since Donald Trump called for a temporary timeout on admitting all Muslims into the United States until "we can figure out what the hell is going on." Such a blanket exclusion, his critics claim, not only would be illegal (questionable) but would alienate "moderate" Muslims whose cooperation is essential to combating jihad terrorism (arguable). So how do we sort them out? That is, if we don't exclude all members of the larger set (Muslims), how do we define and identify the subset (active or potential jihadists)? On that score, Trump is correct on one essential point: we don't know what the hell is going on. Here's an illustration. Most Americans probably assume that when we screen people for admission into the United States, we not only look for terrorist connections but also weed out people promoting the radical ideology and goals that motivate the terrorists. This should at least include advocacy of creating a worldwide Caliphate state and imposition of Sharia law in place of the U.S. Constitution. One should also expect exclusion of members of the Muslim Brotherhood, the international pro-Caliphate political party Hizb ut-Tahrir, and similar organizations. That assumption is dead wrong. Members of such groups and partisans of jihad ideology are not barred from entering our country unless there is a link to "terrorism" narrowly defined to include only detectable violent activity ("premeditated, politically motivated violence perpetrated against noncombatant targets by subnational groups or clandestine agents," 22 U.S.C. 2656f(d)). This is because a 1990 statutory revision virtually abolished so-called "ideological" grounds for exclusion as had previously been used against Nazis, communists, and anarchists. Today, no one can be barred for adhering to the political and moral principles that justify jihadism or for advocating doctrines contrary to the U.S. Constitution and American values, such as Sharia's blatant discrimination on the basis of religion and sex. Indeed, one can come into the U.S. even while pushing for the legal adoption of such barbarities as stoning adulteresses, beheading apostates from Islam, slavery and sex slavery, or pedophilic "child marriage" -- or maintaining the legitimacy of such horrors as "honor" killing or female genital mutilation, which are not strictly Islamic but endemic to some Muslim-majority countries -- so long as there's no indication the applicant actually intends or has been linked to "premeditated, politically motivated violence." It is not coincidental that these atrocities target women and girls with particular venom. (Interestingly, an 1891 inadmissibility of "any immigrant who is coming to the United States to practice polygamy" (8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(10)(A)) -- directed at the time against Mormons, not Muslims -- remains on the books, though it's unclear how strictly it's enforced.) Indeed, not only are Sharia and Caliphate advocates not barred from entry, under applicable standards such advocacy might actually help qualify them for admission as refugees or for claiming asylum if already present in the United States. That's because in many countries the Muslim Brotherhood, Hizb-ut-Tahrir, and similar groups are illegal and subject to government repression. In such countries, repression may under U.S. law constitute "persecution" for purposes of establishing asylum or refugee status. In effect, we're issuing an invitation: Is your nasty government giving you a hard time because you're calling for Sharia and the Caliphate? You poor dear! Come take refuge in the U.S. so you can freely advocate them here -- if you promise scout's honor to keep it non-violent. (Contrast that with the virtual exclusion of Syrian Christians under the same criteria. Christians make up about 10 percent of Syria's population but they make up less than three percent of Syrians admitted so far as refugees or asylees. Why? Because under US law, only government persecution counts. Being raped, tortured, enslaved, and beheaded by non-governmental jihad groups like ISIS doesn't. Since the Syrian government protects Christians, few of them qualify for admission, but a Muslim Brotherhood member calling for a Sharia-ruled Caliphate might be quite qualified). Preferably, Congress should fix this egregious omission by legislating appropriate exclusions. However, President Obama -- who reminded us he has a pen and phone -- certainly could do it himself, at least temporarily until Congress acts, under statutory authority that allows him to bar any class of aliens he deems a danger to the U.S.: "Whenever the President finds that the entry of any aliens or of any class of aliens into the United States would be detrimental to the interests of the United States, he may by proclamation, and for such period as he shall deem necessary , suspend the entry of all aliens or any class of aliens as immigrants or nonimmigrants, or impose on the entry of aliens any restrictions he may deem to be appropriate." (18 USC 1182(f), emphasis added) I'm not holding my breath. But the slim expectation that Mr. Obama might do the right thing isn't a reason not to try to force the issue. Conveniently, Mr. Obama has provided a mechanism to do so -- on his own White House website. (A recent petition asking to list Turkey as a terrorist state reached almost 40,000 signatures despite an almost total lack of media attention until the final two days.) So on February 22, I posted a petition on the White House site, as follows: We want the Obama Administration to: Exclude from the US advocates of Sharia, Caliphate, sex slavery, killing apostates/adulteresses, "honor killing," or FGM Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). Super Tuesday Democratic Primary Tuesday, March 1st, 2016 "Super Tuesday" About one third of delegates needed to win a nomination in the Democratic Party Presidential contest will be awarded, all proportionally, as has been the case with all the primaries thus far. No state with primaries before March 15th can have a "Winner take all" primary. "Winning" or "losing" an individual contest has almost no bearing on the convention results. Sanders and Clinton were at a virtual tie before South Carolina. Sanders should do very well in the Midwest and Northeast states, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Colorado and Massachusetts. In the Southern states, Clinton should take a majority of delegates. Sanders support comes from better educated and informed voters, and more economically distressed voters. Clintons support comes from establishment people who fear change and African American voters. The African American support for Clinton is a perplexing problem for the Sanders campaign. He has fifty years of unwavering support for equality, equal rights, voting rights. She has a thirty year history of pandering to the Black vote and supporting policies that are very destructive to African Americans, for profit prisons, "welfare reform", mandatory sentencing. The critical date for the Democratic contest is March 15th. On that date North Carolina, Florida, Illinois, Ohio and Missouri hold their primaries, with a total of almost 800 delegates. If the delegate count after the 15th remains contestable the decision will not be made until after California, that primary does not take place until June 7th. Super Tuesday will let the Sanders campaign know if they have a chance of success with a higher percentage of African American voters, a critical objective for the campaign. Jim Clyburn Wins SC Primary It should be noted that Clinton spend most of the previous week in a frenzy of activity in SC (when she was not in Manhattan fundraising). Senator Sanders time was spent speaking to voters in later states. Serving in Congress since 1992, Clyburn is the third ranking Democrat in the House. As the dean of SC Democrats Clyburn's endorsement of Clinton affirmed her victory in the state. Bernie Sanders was the overwhelming preference with white SC Democrats. He also led, in polling, with SC primary voters under 40. Those folks did not vote. When citizens lose hope, or believe they have no voice, participation appears to be a wasted effort. South Carolina is home to about 1.2% of the US population. Reprinted from Counterpunch Last month the Peterson Institute for International Economics released a new study that projected the impact of the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP) on the U.S. economy. The study projected that when its effects are fully felt by 2030, the economy will be 0.5 percentage points larger than if we did not have the TPP. It also showed that annual exports would be $387 billion higher as a result of the deal. These projections were widely reported in major media outlets and seen as evidence that the TPP would be a good deal for the United States and American workers. Unfortunately, a closer analysis of the Peterson Institute study indicates considerably less grounds for celebration. First of all, some of the key questions that people have raised about the TPP are not answered by the Peterson Institute study because of the design of the model it used. First and foremost, people are worried that the TPP could open the door to another wave of imports, causing more workers to lose their jobs and putting downward pressure on the wages of the workers who keep their job. The Peterson Institute study can give us no insight on this issue, since was not designed to address the question. The study tells readers: "The model assumes that the TPP will affect neither total employment nor the national savings (or equivalently trade balances) of countries." This means that the design of the model used in the study prevents it from saying anything at all about whether the TPP will lead to a larger trade deficit and a loss of jobs. The model explicitly assumes that the number of jobs is not affected by the TPP, so it provides us no information on the topic of the trade deficit and employment. Furthermore, since it also assumes that the trade balance is not affected by the TPP the Peterson Institute was being a bit disingenuous in touting its projection that annual exports will increase by $387 billion. The assumption that the trade balance doesn't change means that its model also projected annual imports would increase by $387 billion due to the TPP. The assumption that the TPP doesn't affect the trade balance is obviously unrealistic, but it can be useful in how we think about the TPP. One of the major aspects of the deal is requiring stronger and longer patent protections for pharmaceutical companies. President Obama and other politicians have touted this aspect of the deal, saying that we will make sure that other countries pay us for the research done by the pharmaceutical industry. But it is important to understand who is getting paid in this story and who isn't. If we accept for the moment the assumption that the trade balance will not change as a result of the TPP, then if the pharmaceutical companies get more money for their drugs, then everyone else must get less. If the drug companies have a bigger surplus in their trade with other countries, everyone else must have a larger deficit. As a practical matter, this means that we would have larger deficit in other categories in traded goods and services, with manufacturing quite likely being a big loser. In effect, the money that foreigners might have spent on our cars and other manufactured goods will instead be going to pay Pfizer higher prices for its drugs. More money for Pfizer means less money for GM. The Peterson Institute model helps to make clear this tradeoff, the discussion of which has almost been completely missing from the public debate. President Obama and other proponents of the TPP speak of the stronger and longer patent and copyright rules in the deal as though these are provisions that offer benefits for the country as a whole. The reality is 180 degrees in the opposite direction. These protections offer benefits to the executives of these companies and to their shareholders, but they are likely to mean fewer jobs and lower income for the rest of the country. There are undoubtedly positive aspects to the TPP that will make it attractive to substantial numbers of voters, but the stronger rules on patents and copyrights are not good news for most of the country. This column originally appeared in the Los Angeles Times. Articles Listed By Date List By Popularity Search Title Date Between Any 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 Any 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 and Any 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 Any 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 (2 comments) SHARE The Big Three: America, Russia, and China Must Join Hands for Security, Prosperity, and Peace It's time for the United States to talk seriously and constructively with Russia and China, the only other powers on the planet that really matter with respect to questions of war and peace. Wednesday, November 23, 2016It's time for the United States to talk seriously and constructively with Russia and China, the only other powers on the planet that really matter with respect to questions of war and peace. (23 comments) SHARE The Deep State May Be Weakening, but Its Death Agony Could Be Terminal -- for Everybody A new study "How American Media Serves as a Transmission Belt for Wars of Choice" shows how corporate-owned mainstream media (MSM)dutifully serve up war propaganda as an integral part of the Deep State. The good news: the Deep State and its media component show signs of weakening, in part because of challenge by "alternative" independent media like OpEdNews. The bad news: the establishment may risk war in a bid to save itself. Friday, September 23, 2016A new study "How American Media Serves as a Transmission Belt for Wars of Choice" shows how corporate-owned mainstream media (MSM)dutifully serve up war propaganda as an integral part of the Deep State. The good news: the Deep State and its media component show signs of weakening, in part because of challenge by "alternative" independent media like OpEdNews. The bad news: the establishment may risk war in a bid to save itself. (4 comments) SHARE Hillary's Media Shills Join with Fox News in Covering Up How She and Obama Midwifed ISIS On one thing the pro-Hillary MSM and neocon-dominated Fox News agree: there's no need to look at the 2012 Defense Intelligence Agency smoking gun that proves Obama and Hillary took actions that foreseeably led to the establishment of ISIS. Nothing to see here folks, just move along ... Wednesday, August 24, 2016On one thing the pro-Hillary MSM and neocon-dominated Fox News agree: there's no need to look at the 2012 Defense Intelligence Agency smoking gun that proves Obama and Hillary took actions that foreseeably led to the establishment of ISIS. Nothing to see here folks, just move along ... (10 comments) SHARE "Hello, Lenin!" Three Components of America's Misguided Foreign Policy The Bolsheviks sacrificed Russia's interests in pursuit of their internationalist ideology based on three components described by Lenin. Eerily, America's misguided globalist policy contrary to working Americans' interests also rests on three components: 1. Money for the Deep State (military-industrial complex on steroids); 2. Neocon/liberventionist ideology; and 3. Foreign influence. Tuesday, June 21, 2016The Bolsheviks sacrificed Russia's interests in pursuit of their internationalist ideology based on three components described by Lenin. Eerily, America's misguided globalist policy contrary to working Americans' interests also rests on three components: 1. Money for the Deep State (military-industrial complex on steroids); 2. Neocon/liberventionist ideology; and 3. Foreign influence. (1 comments) SHARE Why Is the Senate GOP Leadership Helping Obama Pass Job-Killing Treaties? Once again, the Democrat and GOP leadership are in cahoots against working Americans. Sunday, June 19, 2016Once again, the Democrat and GOP leadership are in cahoots against working Americans. (22 comments) SHARE Sex Slavery, "Honor" Killings, Stoning Adulteresses, and Female Genital Mutilation Should Not Be Welcome in America Advocacy of reforming currentUS law and policy that only bars entry for narrowly defined "terrorism" but does not address the ideologies that underlie terrorism in contravention of the American Constitution and values. Sunday, February 28, 2016Advocacy of reforming currentUS law and policy that only bars entry for narrowly defined "terrorism" but does not address the ideologies that underlie terrorism in contravention of the American Constitution and values. (8 comments) SHARE Please Sign White House Petition to LIST ERDOGAN'S TURKEY AS STATE SPONSOR OF TERRORISM; VOID U.S. ALLIANCE WITH TURKEY A petition has just been posted on the White House site urging President Obama to list President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's Turkey as a State Sponsor of Terrorism and to void America's alliance with Turkey via NATO. Thursday, December 3, 2015A petition has just been posted on the White House site urging President Obama to list President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's Turkey as a State Sponsor of Terrorism and to void America's alliance with Turkey via NATO. (2 comments) SHARE 'With Us or with the Terrorists': It's Clear Which Side Turkey Is On With this week's shootdown of the Su-24 by Turkey, resulting in the deaths of two Russian personnel, it's clear that Ankara is a de-facto ally of the jihad terror forces in Syria. Also at issue is the degree of American complicity. Saturday, November 28, 2015With this week's shootdown of the Su-24 by Turkey, resulting in the deaths of two Russian personnel, it's clear that Ankara is a de-facto ally of the jihad terror forces in Syria. Also at issue is the degree of American complicity. (1 comments) SHARE Canadians Confront the Banks and the Yanks: Open Letter Urges President of Canadian Bankers Association to Oppose FATCA Grassroots opposition to the US FATCA law is building in Canada across the political spectrum. Canadians are confronting efforts of big banks to pressure Ottawa to sign an agreement that would sacrifice Canadian sovereignty and Canadians' rights. An "Open Letter" to the head of the Canadian Bankers Association builds on sharp critiques from the Green, New Democrat, and Liberal parties against the Conservative Government. Wednesday, November 13, 2013Grassroots opposition to the US FATCA law is building in Canada across the political spectrum. Canadians are confronting efforts of big banks to pressure Ottawa to sign an agreement that would sacrifice Canadian sovereignty and Canadians' rights. An "Open Letter" to the head of the Canadian Bankers Association builds on sharp critiques from the Green, New Democrat, and Liberal parties against the Conservative Government. (1 comments) SHARE News from Switzerland: A Referendum To Overturn FATCA Breaks through Fears of U.S. Retaliation Citizens' groups in Switzerland are rising up against an attack on their country's sovereignty under the U.S. FATCA law (the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act that requires Swiss banks to transmit the financial data of U.S. expatriates, as well as many Swiss citizens, to the IRS. A "direct democracy" referendum drive is underway to reject an agreement to impose FATCA in Switzerland. Monday, October 21, 2013Citizens' groups in Switzerland are rising up against an attack on their country's sovereignty under the U.S. FATCA law (the Foreign Account Tax Compliance Act that requires Swiss banks to transmit the financial data of U.S. expatriates, as well as many Swiss citizens, to the IRS. A "direct democracy" referendum drive is underway to reject an agreement to impose FATCA in Switzerland. (3 comments) SHARE RepealFATCA.com Files Freedom of Information Act Request on "Intergovernmental Agreements' with Canada, Switzerland, and Freedom of Information Act request has been filed with Treasury Department for records of FATCA negotiations with Canada, Switzerland, and the UK, as public pressure mounts against civil rights and sovereignty violations from Washington. Defying threats, Swiss are holding a referendum to overturn compliance, Canada's progressive opposition warns conservative government not to sell out to U.S. Saturday, October 12, 2013Freedom of Information Act request has been filed with Treasury Department for records of FATCA negotiations with Canada, Switzerland, and the UK, as public pressure mounts against civil rights and sovereignty violations from Washington. Defying threats, Swiss are holding a referendum to overturn compliance, Canada's progressive opposition warns conservative government not to sell out to U.S. (5 comments) SHARE Canada's Shadow Revenue Minister Warns Government against Sellout on FATCA! The New Democrats, Canada's progressive opposition party, has warned the Conservative government not to sell out Canadians' privacy rights to the United States. FATCA information demanded by the IRS on some 1 million Canadians would be passed on to spy agencies like the NSA. Will progressives really fight to uphold the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms? Saturday, October 5, 2013The New Democrats, Canada's progressive opposition party, has warned the Conservative government not to sell out Canadians' privacy rights to the United States. FATCA information demanded by the IRS on some 1 million Canadians would be passed on to spy agencies like the NSA. Will progressives really fight to uphold the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms? Please click here in order to read our guidelines on commenting to the blog. A forum for critical analysis of international issues and developments of particular relevance to the sustainable political and socio-economic development of Overseas Countries and Territories (OCTs). Subscribe To Daily Morning Blog Email To Get Fresh NewsClips & Articles Every Morning, Send Your Email To: PaEnviroDigest@gmail.com Another Oscar for Sharmeen! Los Angeles: Sharmeen was awarded the Oscar in the category Best Documentary - Short Subject for her documentary A Girl in the River, which follows the life of an 18-year-old girl who is a survivor of an honour killing attempt. Wearing a floor-length black Sana Safinaz coat over a matching dress, Sharmeen had earlier walked the red carpet with her mother and the SOC Films team. "I have another one!" said Sharmeen as she took the stage to accept the award, her second after she won an Academy Award for Saving Face in 2012. This is what happens when determined women get together," continued Sharmeen. "From Saba, the girl in my film who remarkably survived honor killing and shared her story, to Sheila Nevins, Lisa Heller from HBO and Tina Brown who supported me from day one. To the men who champion women, like Geof Bartz who has edited the film to Asad Faruqi, to my friend Ziad who brought this film to the government, to all the brave men out there like my father and husband who push women to go to school and work and who want a more just society for women!" "This week the Pakistani PM said he would change the law on honor killing after watching this film -- that is the power of film!" said Sharmeen in closing. Sharmeen has been in Los Angeles for the past week in preparation for the Academy Awards, arguably Hollywood's biggest night of the year. Sharmeen had previously said that while she was excited by the prospect of winning another Oscar, she would consider her work on the documentary a 'real' success if she managed to help convince stakeholders to pass the Anti-Honour Killing bill. Sharmeen definitely caught the government's attention with A Girl in the River -- the film was screened at the PM House in Islamabad just last week. Following that, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said that honour killing was a critical issue and voiced his governments determination to eradicate this practice from society. Just a few hours before her win Sharmeen had stated in a Facebook post: "In just a few hours the team of A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness will walk the red carpet at the Oscars! Whether we win or lose today we should be very proud of the fact that this film has ignited a national discourse about honor killings in Pakistan and has spurred the government to work on tougher legislation! That achievement shows that we are maturing as a democracy and today I'm so very honored and humbled that we have been able to move the needle on this issue." MQM unconditional cooperation to military establishment KARACHI: A day after its London-based chief extended an apology to the armed forces over his controversial speeches, the Muttahida Qaumi Movement extended on Sunday unconditional cooperation to the military establishment for ridding Sindh and entire country of corruption. In the larger national interest, the MQM is ready to extend complete cooperation to the military leadership for elimination of extremism and terrorism from Pakistan, particularly Karachi, and ridding Sindh and the country of corruption, senior MQM leader Dr Farooq Sattar told a press conference at the partys headquarters Nine Zero here. While the Pakistan Peoples Party and the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz are of the view that strings of the National Accountability Bureau are being pulled from somewhere else, the MQM chose to assure the army, and not the NAB, of its support in eradicating the menace of corruption. He said that a meeting of the MQMs supreme council and coordination committee, presided over by party chief Altaf Hussain and held simultaneously in Karachi and London on Saturday, decided to work with the military leadership and to forget the past in view of external and internal threats to the country. Dr Sattar said that there was always a relation of love and respect between those who migrated from India to Pakistan after the partition and the armed forces of the country. In the past few years, due to some misunderstandings a rift has been created and Altaf Bhai has asked the coordination committee to immediately remove all such misunderstandings. He said that all political parties, military leadership and the people the country should work together for the national agenda of guaranteeing the solidarity and integrity of the country. Dr Sattar said that Mr Hussain and the MQM had always praised the role of armed forces and in Saturdays meeting, the MQM chief had offered an unconditional apology to armed forces if any of his speech had hurt sentiments of the army, its chief or any officer. Condemning a delay in completion of the local government structure across the province, Dr Sattar announced a cleanliness drive in Karachi, Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas and Nawabshah on a self-help basis. He said that on the instruction of party chief Altaf Hussain, the Saturdays meeting decided that regardless of limited powers and resources and a delay in the mayoral elections, the MQM would start the cleanliness drive in Karachi, Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas and Nawabshah immediately. Our struggle for powers of local government representatives will continue, but right now we are going to launch a cleanliness drive with the cooperation of the people and civil society organisations, the MQM leader declared. We do not have the mechanical and financial resources of local government institutions, but we are committed to clean our cities since the people have given us their mandate. He said that the meeting discussed the worsening situation of health and sanitation and water and power crisis in urban areas of Sindh and demanded of authorities concerned and the provincial government to restore the fundamental civic rights of the people forthwith. The provincial government must restore powers and resources of the local government institutions and hold elections on reserved seats, mayors, deputy mayors and chairmen and vice chairmen of union committees so that elected representatives could start serving their constituents, he added. MQMs mayoral candidate Waseem Akhtar, Nasreen Jalil, Rauf Siddiqui and others were present during the press conference. Mumtaz Qadri hanged RAWALPINDI: Mumtaz Qadri, a Punjab Police commando convicted of killing former Punjab governor Salman Taseer, was executed at the Adiala Jail early Monday morning. Qadri was sentenced to death for assassinating Taseer on January 4, 2011, in Islamabads Kohsar Market. Qadri said he killed Taseer over what he called the politician's vocal opposition to blasphemy laws of the country. The Supreme Court of Pakistan in October last year maintained the conviction of Mumtaz Qadri by an Anti Terrorism Court, overturning Islamabad High Court's (IHC) March 9 verdict, which had dismissed Qadri's appeal against his death sentence under the Pakistan Penal Code (PPC) but accepted his plea to void the Anti Terrorism Act's (ATA) Section 7. Strict security measures were taken within the jail premises and a heavy contingent of Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA) personnel were deployed to avoid any untoward incident. All routes leading to the Adiala Jail were sealed. LEAs personnel were also deployed across the city in view of agitation and protests. The body of Mumtaz Qadri was handed over to his family members and was moved from the jail under tight security cover. Qadri's last meeting with his family was arranged late on Sunday night. Pak-US dialogue in USA ISLAMABAD: A four-member Pakistani delegation reached Washington on Sunday to attend the sixth round of ministerial-level Pakistan-US strategic dialogue due to be held on Monday. The delegation is headed by Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz and includes Minister for Planning, Development and Reforms Ahsan Iqbal, Minister of State for Water and Power Abid Sher Ali and Interior Secretary Arif Khan.The talks will take stock of entire gamut of bilateral relations between the two countries. The US delegation will be led by John Kerry in the talks. The six segments of the strategic dialogue include cooperation in economy and finance; energy; education, science and technology, law enforcement and counterterrorism, security, strategic stability and non-proliferation and defense.It will be the third annual meeting since the present government has come to power. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharifs visit to the United States in October last had given necessary impetus to the dialogue mechanism.Talking to media, Ahsan Iqbal said that the purpose of Pak-US strategic talks is to extend the relations between the two countries. He said that in the past, relations between both the countries were limited to security only. He that the talks also include education, technology and finance. Raheel Sharif expressed satisfaction over North Waziristan operation PESHAWAR: Army Chief Gen Raheel Sharif has expressed satisfaction over the ongoing offensive in parts of North Waziristan where five security personnel and 34 terrorists were killed in a clash and air strikes on Saturday. Gen Raheel was in Peshawar on Sunday to attend the funeral prayer of Captain Umair Abdullah Abbasi and four soldiers who lost their lives in Shawal and Dattakhel areas. Inter Services Public Relations said in a statement that acting Governor Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Asad Qaisar, father of Captain Umair and senior civil and military officers were among those who attended the funeral prayer at the corps headquarters. Gen Raheel expressed solidarity with the bereaved families. Later, he visited the injured soldiers at the Combined Military Hospital. Corps Commander Lt Gen Hidayatur Rehman briefed him on the progress in the operation against militants. Gen Raheel expressed his complete satisfaction over final push in North Waziristan to evict terrorists from isolated pockets of Shawal close to Pak-Afghan border, said the statement. Paying rich tribute to the sacrifices and resilience of soldiers courageously fighting terrorists in the mountainous area of Shawal, the army chief said they would go to any length to finish pockets of terrorists from any nook and corner in the country. Meanwhile, an Afghan army soldier, who suffered critical head injury in firing by terrorists on the other side of the border, was evacuated to a Pakistani post in Kitkot area of Bajaur tribal region. Sepoy Alam Zeb was given first aid at the post before being shifted to the Agency Headquarters Hospital in Khar. He was later referred to CMH Peshawar. Our Correspondent in Murree adds: Captain Umair Abbasi was buried in his native Trumthiyaan Dewal village near Murree after last rites. His father Abdullah Abbasi, who himself is a retired army man, said he was proud that his son had been martyred while fighting against terrorists. He said if Pakistan Army demanded he would happily send his second son for the defence of motherland. Prominent among those who attended the funeral prayer were Defence Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif, Petroleum and Natural Resources Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi, former governor KP Sardar Mehtab Ahmad, provincial minister Raja Ishfaq Sarwar, Corps Commander Peshawar and General Officer Commanding 12 Division Murree. Sacrifices of Army will not go in vain: Nawaz Sharif ISLAMABAD: Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said on Sunday the sacrifices of Pakistan Army soldiers who are fighting against terrorists will not go in vain. They will be in our hearts and prayers, and we will make sure that their sacrifices do not go in vain, a statement issued by the PM House quoted the premier as saying. The statement comes a day after an armed clash between troops of the Pakistan Army and terrorists in Shawal Valley of North Waziristan Agency resulted in martyrdom of four military personnel, including an officer. As many as 19 militants were also killed in the fighting. The prime minister offered his condolences to the bereaved families of the four military personnel. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif sends his condolences to the families and loved ones of those who lost their lives in the struggle against terrorism in Shawal, the statement read. The prime minister lauded the courage and bravery of the valiant soldiers who had laid down their lives while defending their homeland. These men showed bravery and courage till their very last breath they put the nation and its future before their own, he said. However, the prime minister emphasised that there was little room for complacency as the nation was passing through a critical stage. This is a battle of good versus evil and what defines us as a people, those who lost their lives in this never-ending struggle are worthy of being called pride of our nation, Nawaz said. US maintains close ties with Pak India to help reduce tensions: John Kerry WASHINGTON: The United States maintains close ties with both Pakistan and India because they help reduce tensions between South Asias two nuclear-armed neighbours, says US Secretary of State John Kerry. A transcript released on Sunday shows Secretary Kerry arguing in two recent congressional hearings that the US has been working really hard to advance a rapprochement between Islamabad and New Delhi. In one of the statements he indirectly confirmed media reports that the US had been quietly encouraging the two prime ministers to hold bilateral talks. We encourage that. I think its required to encourage both leaders to engage in the dialogue that theyve engaged in, he said. And needless to say, we dont want to do things that upset the balance. But we do believe that Pakistan is engaged legitimately in a very tough fight against identifiable terrorists in their country that threaten Pakistan, he argued. Secretary Kerry noted that Pakistan has deployed about 150,000 to 180,000 troops along the Pak-Afghan border. US defence experts fear that increase in tensions with India could force Pakistan to bring some of those troops to its eastern border, allowing the Taliban to move freely in and out of Afghanistan. The US is finding it difficult to balance its relations with India and Pakistan even as a high-powered Pakistani delegation reached here on Sunday for a strategic dialogue that seeks to enhance Islamabads relations with Washington. Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz leads the delegation, which also includes Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, Minister for Water and Power Khwaja Asif, the interior secretary, DG Joint Staff Lt Gen Majid Khan and representatives from half a dozen other departments and ministries. Ambassador Jalil Abbas Jilani will represent Pakistan at talks on counter-terrorism and non-proliferation. The discussions on non-proliferation precede a nuclear summit Washington is hosting next month. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and his Indian counterpart Narendra Modi are both attending the summit. Secretary Kerry will lead the American team at the strategic dialogue, which will include officials from the National Security Council, the Defence Department and the US intelligence community. From Greg Swank, 12-4-2 You are about to read a list of 45 goals that found their way down the halls of our great Capitol back in 1963. As... It has taken a watchdog outside group, the Parents Coalition of Montgomery County, to ferret out this waste. The coalition, driven by its sharp curiosity, frequently uses the Maryland Public Information Act to request public records and keep track of district decisions and spending. We commend the coalition for its important work on this front. It is saving county residents money as inappropriate spending has been uncovered. July 16, 2014 The mathematical (and other) thoughts of a (now retired) math teacher, PEREGRINATIONS - Canadian Catholic Perspectives and Reflections by members of the PERSONAL ORDINARIATE OF THE CHAIR OF ST. PETER Jillian Kestler-D'Amours More than 70 percent of the guests had their visa applications denied [Marc Braibant/AFP] T... NEW YORK, NY February 29, 2016 The fashion and technology worlds are merging faster than ever before, and MasterCard is teaming up with The New Schools Parsons School of Design to bring a forward-thinking, design-led approach to payments technology. In a Fashion and Design Hack sponsored by the two organizations, teams of students will compete to develop solutions and build prototypes for connected commerce by embedding payments functionality into products, new designs or concepts. The engagement with Parsons design students pushes forward MasterCards vision to bring to consumers a new generation of connected commerce experiences. Consumers saw some of the possibilities in the forms of connected key fobs, a payment-enabled dress and other smart accessories late last year when MasterCard introduced its Commerce for Every Device program. The program aims to enable commerce on a wide array of consumer products across automotive, fashion, technology, wearables, and yet to be imagined categories. This gives consumers the freedom to shop using the device or thing that is most convenient to them, with the highest level of security available. With the hack, MasterCard welcomes a new generation that thinks differently about its money to innovate on this theme. As the world becomes more and more connected, the way consumers interact and transact is transforming, said Sherri Haymond, senior vice president, Digital Payments and Labs, MasterCard. What you buy and how you pay will soon blend seamlessly into your lifestyle as design, usability and technology merge together in new ways. The Fashion and Design Hack with Parsons is another way for us to integrate design-led thinking into payments innovation and tap into the creativity and ingenuity of the schools design students. The teams of three students each were selected through a competitive submission process at Parsons and will compete for $15,000 in prize money and an opportunity to showcase their creations at leading MasterCard industry events. The day-long Fashion and Design Hack will take place at The New Schools University Center, in New York City, on Saturday, March 5, and students from the fashion, industrial design, product design, data visualization, and design and technology programs will participate. How people and products interact is changing rapidly, said Burak Cakmak, dean of Parsons School of Fashion at The New School. More and more, companies are turning to design to help build a more positive consumer experience. By partnering with Parsons, MasterCard is engaging with our students creative and innovative approaches to design viable solutions. Following an initial meeting to discuss research and initial concepts, the teams will have just seven hours on the day of challenge to create their prototypes before presenting it to a panel of esteemed judges, including: Technology is playing a greater and greater role in all aspects of our lives, including fashion, said designer Adam Selman. The connected device revolution wont necessarily be limited to our wrists. And we need creative minds to push the boundaries of their imagination and develop design concepts that are truly inventive. Through this collaboration the new generation of design students will have the opportunity to bring to life concepts that incorporate cutting-edge design with the latest in payments technology. Read more Other breaking news: ZipBooks launches free accounting software for small businesses Lehi, UT, Feb. 2015 ZipBooks is the only free accounting software to provide invoice financing, automatic credit card recurring billing and integrated time tracking. They are the newest addition to a growing number of VC-backed FinTech startups. None of the existing small business accounting solutions out there are solving the most important problem for small businessesmanaging cash flow. Ive felt the misery myself as a small business owner, having to make payroll when a needed payment was still outstanding, notes Tim Chaves, founder and CEO of ZipBooks. We are putting enterprise cash flow management tools into the hands of small businesses. More importantly, were working these tools right into the process of sending an invoice that business owners already use every day. ZipBooks is capitalizing on the fact that accounting is still a universal sore spot for small businesses. It doesnt make sense to pay a monthly subscription for QuickBooks Online when were providing robust, intuitive accounting tools for free and generating revenue by giving companies what they really needcapital to run their business, says Chaves. If 2015 progress is any indication of 2016, the future bodes well for ZipBooks. Weve been able to leverage strategic partnerships to provide bank integrations for companies in US and Canada and already process credit card payments in North America, Europe, and Australia, Chaves points out. ZipBooks primary mission is to reduce the mortality rate of U.S. small businesses by helping them improve their access to the capital they need and companies are respondingZipBooks customer base has doubled every month since its founding. According to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, up to 72 percent of small businesses get turned down for bank loans. However, ZipBooks believes that giving small business owners access to modest invoice advances is enough to get most growing businesses to the next payday. Invoice financing can be confusing, especially for a small business owner who has to worry about every aspect of their business. They dont have time to research how to access more sophisticated financial instruments that traditionally have been used by larger companies. ZipBooks platform can underwrite a business within 24 hours of their application for Invoice Instant Payments. Businesses who opt to finance an invoice can see money hit their account the day after an invoice is sent, regardless of when a client pays. ZipBooks guides small businesses in the right direction by providing bookkeeping software and access to needed short-term capital. To learn more about what ZipBooks can do for your small business, visit https://zipbooks.com. About ZipBooks ZipBooks is the only way for business owners to send and finance an invoice in a single click. ZipBooks gives small business owners access to bookkeeping, invoicing, time tracking, bank information, and credit card processing without a monthly subscription. This all helps business owners get more funding, lower the cost of running a business, and saves time so they can run and grow their business the way they want. ZipBooks has offices in Lehi, Utah, and its investors include Peak Ventures. Other breaking news: I'm sure anyone who is reading this article got an immediate chuckle out of the goofiness of this man's name, but make no mist... When he was first elected, US President Barack Obama promised the controversial jail, Guantanamo Bay, would be shut down and emptied within a year. But more than seven years later the promise is yet to be fulfilled. From Kabul, Afghanistan, Asia Callings Ghayor Waziri meets one released prisoner who was detained in the jail without charge for seven years. Hundreds of children are studying here at a private school in Kabul. Thirty-six year old Shareef Allah Sherzad works at the school, monitoring the quality of teaching. But for seven years from 2003 until 2010 he was detained at Guantanamo Bay detention camp in Cuba. After an intense time of punishment at Guantanamo Shareef Allah said he wanted to return to normal life. There was a lot of punishment of prisoners, for example, they didnt let us to sleep and they drowned us in water, he says. Shareef Allah Sherzad says the guards also deprived prisoners of food and subjected them to humiliating treatment... Shareef Allah was 22 years old and had just returned from Pakistan to Afghanistan when he was arrested by US forces in Nangerhar, an eastern province of Afghanistan. He still he doesnt know why he was detained at Guantanamo for seven years. Honestly from my arrest to my release, I didnt know why US forces detained me, he says, At first they told me it was because I had ties with Al-Qaida then the Taliban, then they told me I had relations with the Haqani network. Finally they accused me of being connected to the Hekmatyar chief of Hizb-e-Islami, one of the groups leader who was fighting against Afghan and international forces. The Haqani network is a group of insurgents working under Taliban leadership, while Hizb-e-Islami is a mujahedeen faction involved in the civil war in Afghanistan. But Shareef denies he was involved with any of the groups. In recent weeks in Kabul, angry citizens have demonstrated outside the American embassy calling for the closure of the detention camp. The protesters, some dressed in orange prison uniforms like the ones worn at the prison were holding banners with the phrases, Close Guantanamo! And Guantanamo, a shame on Human Rights! Activist Nazer Muhammad Mutmain joined in the demonstration. After 15 years, still some people are detained in Guantanamo jail, while they dont have a barrister and nor their rights as a human being, says Mutmain, When after 15 years their crimes are not clear and there is no court injunction on them, then it is their right to be released. That is why we are protesting here and asking the US to close this jail. Guantanamo is shameful to the US government, a shame on the world. Some of the protesters identified themselves as family members of Guantanamo prisoners While others blamed US President Barack Obama for not fulfilling his promise to shut it down. This demonstrator is reading a joint statement at the protest, urging the United States to close all of its hidden prisons. Protestor Omer Khan travelled from Khost province to join the rally. His son has been detained at Guantanamo for years but he has no idea why. It is about 14 years that they carried my son to Guantanamo prison, no one has taken responsibility to answer me why. If he is accused of a crime they must bring him to court and blame him for that, without a court injunction no one can put him in jail, says Khan, If he is not accused of a crime they must release him. During his detention Shareef says it was very difficult to contact his family and like many prisoners, he faced severe mental problems. We could only contact our families by letter, which was managed by the ICRC, he says. But it would take months for the letters to be sent because the US forces kept them. For example, once I received a letter from my family 21 months after it was sent. In jail there was a lot of pressure and I suffered from mental problems. I got depressed and had nightmares. Abdul Rahman Hootak is from the Afghan independent human rights commission. The organization has received many complaints from people about Guantanamo jail and it is a major concern, he says. Guantanamo is a jail where most of its prisoners are arrested illegally and are held in that jail illegally, he says, Guantanamo prison is against every kind of international law and human right. Guantanamo prison opened in 2002 and at its height there was almost 700 prisoners detained there. Now there are less than 100 detainees, eight of who are believed to be Afghani. And while the numbers of detainees are dropping, thats not good enough for some here in Kabul. Political leaders from Haryana on a hunger strike in New Delhi demanding restoration of peace and normalcy in the state. (Photo: Bismillah Geelani) Continuing caste protests are raging in Indias northern state of Haryana, where more than a dozen people have died and scores of others wounded in violent clashes. Roads and railways have been blocked as one group, members of the Jat community, is pushing to be granted quotas in the government and education system. Bismillah Geelani has this report. In Rohtak district in the northern state of Haryana, thousands of vehicles are stranded on the highway. Truck driver Satish has been waiting with his fruit-laden vehicle for the last five days to cross over to the capital, New Delhi just 150 kilometers away. Its so frustrating. We are stuck here for no reason and we have to walk 2 kilometers to get food, he says, We have nothing to do with all this, so why we are being made to suffer? The ongoing agitation from Haryanas Jat community has brought life in the state to a grinding halt. Jats, predominantly farmers, are considered to be an upper caste and relatively affluent, but they are demanding a quota in educational institutions and government jobs. To have their demands heard they have blocked roads and railway tracks and there have been violent and fatal demonstrations. Jat leader Sanjay Yadav says the protests are set to continue. We have been demanding this quota for several years and every government has been using us, he says, We are the largest vote bank in the state and before elections every political party assures us that they will grant us our demand, but once they take our votes nobody looks back. Though the previous government had announced a quota for the Jat community, the Supreme Court overturned the decision saying they dont meet the concession criteria. The court ruled that social and educational backwardness is the key reason the quota, or reservation, as it is known, is granted. And that economic standing is not enough. Senior Supreme court lawyer Surinder Singh explains. There are obviously some communities that qualify to be very backward, and if you add communities which are relatively forward and they compete with each other, its obvious the ones who are really backward will lose out, he says, So I think the Supreme Court has a point in it that any community that can politically mobilize itself and wants to be called as backward class or backward caste would not automatically qualify simply because they want to make this claim. But it is not just the Jats who are up in arms over the quota system. Other communities in Gujarat and Andhara Pradesh have also been pushing for the same over recent months. Described as the race for backwardness, the situation has fuelled a sense of insecurity among the Dalits and tribal people the main beneficiaries of the quotas. Chandrabhan Prasad is a writer and Dalit activist. The main purpose of the reservation policy as an affirmative action was to bring into mainstream the Dalits and tribal people, who were called impure and were discriminated against. Now everyone is asking for it, explains Prasad, The trend is making a mockery of the whole concept of social reform the quota system was sought to bring about. Many see the growing demand for quotas from various communities as a result of the breakdown of Indias agricultural sector. Another, and perhaps the more influential factor, is what is known as jobless economic growth. Satish Despandey, a professor of sociology at the University of Delhi, explains. What is happening today is that the new pattern of development, or the lack of it, that has been in effect for the past 20 years has raised expectation, but has done very little to fulfill them, he says. So the groups, especially the left behind sections of dominant groups are feeling the gap between their aspirations and reality very sharply and instead of expressing their frustration with the economic system, which is preventing or not bringing about growth, they are seeking the easy route of reservation, he continues. The quota system was initially introduced to bridge the huge social gap between the lower and upper castes created by Indias centuries old caste hierarchy. Many believe it has outlived its purpose and should be abolished. But Despandey argues the complicated problem needs to be considered more deeply. We all need to look beyond reservation for [a] solution and most of all we must stop using this kind of situation where relative economic disadvantage or backwardness is one thing and extreme forms of social exclusion are another thing, he says, To the extreme forms of social exclusion that Dalits and tribal people suffer from, forced inclusion via reservation is the only solution. While the Jat protests show no sign of dying down any time soon the government has announced plans to introduce a law providing a quota for the community. But its a move many say will set a dangerous precedent. Biddeford-Saco-OOB Courier The board earmarked $1.54 million in federal American Rescue Plan Act funds for the dredge, designed to keep channels open and supply sand to nourish eroding beaches up and down the York County coast and beyond. Jefferson Project moves forward with grant Bravos to the Jefferson Project for continuing to move forward with its plans to protect Lake George, and for the state of New York for coming up with a $500,000 grant that will allow Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, IBM Research and the Fund for Lake George to finish placing sensors in the lake to provide a complete environmental snapshot of what is happening with the lake and the water quality. The remaining 21 sensor platforms are scheduled to be placed in the lake by the end of the year. This is cutting-edge technology that will help protect the lake for years to come. Financial question was not out of line Boos to South Glens Falls Mayor Joe Orlow for his criticism of Trustee Tony Girard for asking about how much money the village was going to have in its budget at the end of the fiscal year. Orlow took offense to the question and said Girard was grandstanding to make a point. Knowing how much money the village has in its reserve is an especially relevant question as savings continue to dwindle. Easton enacts plan for Burton Hall Bravos to Easton Town Board for agreeing to spend $250,000 to make improvements to Burton Hall to protect its historical status while continuing to make it useful to the citizens of the town. Figuring out what to do to protect Burton Hall has been an issue for two decades in Easton, and its good to see the town moving forward. Apathy abounds in village elections Boos to village residents across the region for participating less and less in local government. In five of the seven village elections coming up in March, there is no competition for any elected seat. Whenever consolidation has been proposed regarding villages, residents rally to stop it, yet there appears to be less and less interest for this extra layer of government. Supervisors balk at evening meeting Boos to the Warren County Board of Supervisors for rejecting a plan to move its regular morning meeting in April to the evening. Board Chairman Kevin Geraghty has promised to hold some night meetings this year to make it easier for supervisors and residents to attend. He proposed having a meeting at 5:30 p.m. April 15, but the proposal did not get two-thirds of the weighted votes. Supervisors expressed concerns about schedule issues and whether there would be more interest in a meeting on a Friday night than during the day, as well as the fact that town supervisors have multiple town meetings at night. Farmers market is successful at school Bravos to the Glens Falls Farmers Market for its second successful winter run in the gymnasium of the Sanford Street School. The farmers market, which draws big crowds to the South Street parking lot in the summer, kept the momentum going by moving to the available space at the Sanford Street School. Neighboring counties to partner on tourism Bravos to Warren and Washington counties for agreeing to help each other by sharing tourism promotion efforts. For too long, the neighboring counties have looked at each other as competitors for tourism dollars. Its good to see this collaboration as they promote events and attractions that do not compete. Siemens pushes back on Warren County Boos to Siemens Building Technologies for alleging that Warren County defaulted on its contracts when it sold Westmount Health Facility. The international conglomerate has been at the center of accusations about whether the work it did for the county saved taxpayers money. It appears the latest challenge from Siemens is no more than bullying as it tries to protect its tainted reputation. Lake George holds forum on transgender issues Bravos to Lake George school officials for a forum addressing new state guidelines regarding the rights of transgender students. The purpose of the forum was not to debate the policies but to educate people about the issue. Its great to see the school board being forward-thinking on this topic. The hurricane knocked out power across all of Cuba. Initially, there was loss of power in the western provinces, but later the entire grid c... Many years ago my mother had a baby, and that baby was me. My mother loved me with her whole heart. Then she had a miscarriage. She and my d... II. Disagreement is welcome, even encouraged, but spam, unduly profane, or offensive speech is subject to removal by the staff and management of this blog. Insults from the FBI (Foul mouthed, Boring and Ignorant) and anonymous trolls hardest hit. III. Feel free to use, in unaltered form, any Photoshops I create with the 'Proof Positive' address on them. A simple link in return is all we ask, so anyone else who likes it knows where to find more. IV. As a matter of policy, I never knowingly print lies or untruths in my blog, unless I'm quoting correctly the liberal who told them. Parler: @ProofPositive I. Commenting here is a privilege, not a right.V. Follow me on Gab , GETTR, or TRUTH: @MikeAKAProof Regularly ahead of the curve, the Review has opposed federal drug policy for nearly 50 years, was a lonely media voice against the massive freeways planned for Washington, was an early advocate of bikeways and light rail, and helped spur the creation of the DC Statehood Party and the national Green Party, In November 1990 it devoted an entire issue to the ecologically sound city and how to develop it. The article was republished widely. Even before Clinton's nomination we exposed Arkansas political scandals that would later become major issues. . We reported on NSA monitoring of U.S. phone calls in the 1990s, years before it became a major media story. In 2003 editor Sam Smith wrote an article for Harper's comprised entirely of falsehoods about Iraq by Bush administration officials. The Review started a web edition in 1995 when there were only 27,000 web sites worldwide. Today there are over 170 million active sites. In 1987 we ran an article on AIDS. It was the first year that more than 1,000 men died of the disease. In the 1980s, Thomas S Martin predicted in the Review that "Yugoslavia will eventually break up" and that "a challenge to the centralized soviet state" would occur as a result of devolutionary trends. Both happened. In the 1970s we published a first person account of a then illegal abortion. In 1971 we published our first article in support of single payer universal health care In 1970, we ran a two part series on gay liberation. i n 1965 we called for the end of the draft. In the 1960s we proposed community policing "For a nation to be great, its laws have to facilitate growth. You cannot overtax businesses and kill them and hope them to survive at the same time; it doesnt work that way, he said The pastor who received a lot of backlash from the rulling National Democratic Congress for saying that government has done nothing novel in building roads and schools, apparently has not cowered on being outspoken about governance issues. In his address to the gathering on the Springboard Road Show, Pastor Otabil charged the youth to force the politicians to create the enabling environment for their businesses to thrive "We have to force the politicians to think of us, and to think of our lives, and to think of our future, and to think of our dreams. And the only way to do that is for you to start thinking, not in party terms, but in policy terms and making sure that the laws that govern your industry favour you because if that doesn't happen, dreamers will die with their dream unrealized. We cant be digging the gold and taking it out whether by galamsey method or by any other method in perpetuity, the minister of trade and industry Dr.Ekow Spio Garbrah charged. AngloGold Ashanti's two Ghanaian mines, Obuasi and Iduapriem, produced 512000 ounces of gold in 2011, while Gold Fields' Tarkwa mine produced 717000 ounces of gold in the same year. According to Dr. Ekow Spio Garbrah , (the jewelry industry) this is one area where South African companies owe us(Ghana) a lot. After all these years weve just been exporting raw gold, sometimes a little bit of refinement but we all know that the final destination of gold for most uses is jewelry and South Africa is has a very wonderful gold refinery industry and jewelry making industry , he stated. The Minister of trade Dr.Ekow Spio Garbrah said the South African companies should collectively work with Ghanaian partners to move up to the next level of jewelry making, its critical, its important. According to the teachers, even though they are yet to receive full payment of their salary arrears of Ghc16 million from government, they will hold on to the strike following the validation process that has begun by the Controller and Account Generals Department, CAGD and the Audit Department. Teachers across the country earlier this year served notice of a strike on February 29, 2016 if government failed to pay them their outstanding arrears by the end of February. Government had subsequently met the various teacher unions on two different occasions to try and reach an agreement for the teachers to rescind their strike decision. However, government on the third meeting with the teacher unions on Wednesday ordered the release of an amount of GHS 1,579,078.20 to settle 2012 salary arrears of teachers across the country. A communique signed by the various stakeholders at the meeting said arrears for 2013 and 2014 will, however, not be paid, until authorities validate some payment processes which will begin on Thursday. The Director of Payroll at the Auditor Generals Department, Ben Tandoh told Accra-based Citi FM that some of the teachers also backdated their documents. Backdating is fraudulent because it has an element of unearned salary and it is not only unearned salary, we must remember that Government pays 13 percent as employees contribution to the social security on your behalf, he said. Mr. Tandoh added that his outfit has informed the Finance Ministry about the latest development and has asked for punishment to be meted out to the culprits. Those who are found culpable will be held responsible. It is for minister of finance to carry out the recommendation and Im sure they are going to be punished, he added. Background Teachers across the country earlier this year served notice of a strike on February 29, 2016 if government failed to pay them their outstanding arrears by the end of February. Government had subsequently met the various teacher unions on two different occasions to try and reach an agreement for the teachers to rescind their strike decision. However, government on the third meeting with the teacher unions on Wednesday ordered the release of an amount of GHS 1,579,078.20 to settle 2012 salary arrears of teachers across the country. A communique signed by the various stakeholders at the meeting said arrears for 2013 and 2014 will, however, not be paid, until authorities validate some payment processes which will begin on Thursday. The board has appointed a subcommittee to study the practicalities of how and when to sell Barclays Africa, the FT said. Over the past century, Barclays has built one of the continents largest lenders, employing 44,000 staff and operating 1,267 branches. The business spans much of sub-Saharan Africa but its profits come mainly from its 62% stake in Absa bank in South Africa, according to the SundayTimes. The process could take "months or years," unnamed source to the SundayTimes. I can say for sure that these gentlemen are very deadly. Police, well prepared, proceeded because we have heard of them; we have heard of what they are capable of doing. They are deadly. We prepared, went to their abode with the view of arresting them to be put before the law. But police encountered fire, first from them, injuring one police corporal in the process. We tried to demobilise them.They received some gunshot wounds as well. There was a shootout at their abode between the police and them. Two of them, namely Rasta and Baba, were conveyed to the hospital and pronounced dead upon reaching the hospital. The third person, upon hearing of what had happened, was trying to spy on the police. He was identified and arrested. That is Patrick Ayine, alias Aluta. He is currently in police custody, DCOP Afeku added. Celebrated Lawyer Philip Kojo Addison over the weekend pulled a major surprise when he defied the odds to win the rerun parliamentary primary of the opposition NPP in the Klottey Korle constituency. 5 VIE FOR JBS SEAT Six NPP members in the Abuakwa North Constituency of the Eastern Region have picked nomination forms and have been vetted by the regional branch of the party to contest in the parliamentary primary of scheduled for Tuesday. IS MAHAMA LIVING IN GHANA? NANA ASKS As the NPP Presidential candidate, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, presents what he as described as the real State of the Nation at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons today, he is wondering if President Mahama as any idea about the unprecedented level of economic difficulties and hardships the Ghanaian people have been subjected under the two-term administration of the NDC. CRUDE OIL PRICES ONLY BACK TO NORMAL Crude oil prices are only back to normal and they will remain so unless there is a major shock, like an India following a China growth trajectory and guzzling more oil or in the event of a major geopolitical upheaval, independent economists at London-based Llewellyn Consulting have said. ILLEGAL FEES KILLING WOMEN IN LABOUR A study by Send-Ghana has revealed that a lot of women who go into labour, especially in the northern regions, avoid health facilities due to illegal fees a situation that is contributing to the rise in maternal mortality. CEDI GESTURES FIRST QUARTER RESLIENCE The year-to-year performance of the cedi against the US dollar should give the central bank something to be hopeful about as it depreciated only 2.49 percent as against 7.6 percent within the same period last year. CPC SUFFERS NEW SETBACK; ONE OF ITS 3 ROASTERS BREAKDOWN Cocoa Processing Company, a majority state-owned company, has suffered a fresh setback as one of its three roasters has broken down. GANA NEEDS COHERENT ALCOHOL POLICY THINK TANK Baraka Policy Institute (BPI) an independent think-tank, has called for a coherent national policy to regulate the production, consumption and marketing of alcoholic products in the country. PASS RTI BILL FIRST AND NOW LAWYER WRITES TO SPEAKER OF PARLIAMENT Pass the Right to Information Bill before The Interception of Postal Packets and Telecommunication Messages Bill. DVLA PLEDGES SUPPORT TO KATANKA AUTOMOBILE The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has pledged its preparedness to offer support to the Kantanka Group of Companies, manufacturers of Kantanka brand of vehicles. GHANA IS BROKE DALEX FINANCE CEO Government has been urged to face up to the reality that the country is broke and chart a new path with agriculture development as key to help address her economic challenges for a better future. BOG GOVERNOR MUST RESIGN GHANAIANS SUGGEST "The "Spy Bill" should not be passed. It's a major threat to individual freedom of expression and privacy," Nana Addo said this during his presentation of the 'Real State of the Nation Address' on Monday. The 'Spy Bill', which was referred to the Defense and Interior of Parliament in early February by the Speaker of Parliament, Edward Doe Adjaho, is meant to 'spy' on people the national security see as a security threat to the nation, including drug dealers. Civil society organisations as well as other IT experts have already kicked against the passage of the 'Spy Bill' for concerns it will infringe on the privacy of people. IT expert, Maximus Ametorgor has told Pulse.com.gh that the bill is akin to the US National Security Agency (NSA) scandal in which it collected the telephone records of tens of millions of Americans. The NSA, according to the Guardian and the Washington Post, tapped into the servers of google, Yahoo, Facebook and Microsoft to monitor online communication in a surveillance programme known as Prism. Verizon communications, one of America's largest telecoms providers, under a top secret court order, release its telephone data to the NSA on an "ongoing daily basis." American citizens data were collected indiscriminately regardless of whether they are suspected of any wrongdoing. "You can't vouch for the integrity of the government" when it comes peoples data, Ametorgor said. The two leaders will hold a joint press conference, and also address a Business Forum. President Erdogan will also join President Mahama to cut sod for the official commencement of work on a new terminal building at the Kotoka International Airport. President Mahama and his wife, Lordina, will host an Official State Luncheon in honour of President Erdogan and his wife at the State Banquet Hall. The Turkish leader will also hold discussions with the Speaker of Parliament and address the House, before visiting the Kwame Nkrumah Memorial Park with his wife. His visit follows a 2013 visit to Ankara and Istanbul by President John Dramani Mahama and an earlier 2011 visit by former Turkish President, HE Abdullah Gul. The Turkish First lady, HE Emine Erdogan will also hold discussions with HE Nana Dr. Lordina Dramani Mahama and also visit the Osu Childrens Home. Member of Parliament for the Keta constituency Richard Quashigah has rubbished claims by the President that communities facing water shortages now have access to water. Presenting the 'Real State of the Nation Address' on Monday, Nana Akufo-Addo wondered if the president does not have evidence of water shortages being experienced b y the people of the country. "We have a drought situation in Ghana. Large tracts of farmlands and crops have been lost," the presidential candidate added. He added that it was disappointing to realise that less than 24 hours after the president delivered the State of the Nation Address, Member of Parliament for the Keta constituency Richard Quashigah came out to say that his constituency is still suffering from water shortages. The Minister of Water resources also subsequently told parliament about the water crisis being faced in the country, a comment the flagbearer of the NPP believes is at variant with the president's claims. Shortage of water has hit areas including Winneba, Tamale, Sekondi, Ningo and Nsawam for over two weeks now due to the drying up of the main sources of water supply for the GWCL. Nineteen business associations have resolved to close down all their shops from Monday, February 29 to Wednesday, March 2, 2016 to protest what they call killer taxes imposed by the government. According to the business associations, the protest is also aimed at putting pressure on the government to review certain trade policies which are unfavourable to business. All importers have also been directed to halt any process of clearing their goods at the ports during the three-day strike. But, a statement signed by the Accra Regional Police Public Relations Officer, ASP Afia Tenge said the Police "wish to caution against acts which may be targeted at forcibly closing shops of individuals who are not in favour of the strike action; since such actions borders on illegalities and the infringement of the rights of persons, which the Police will react to appropriately. "The Police will consequently urge the general public to undertake their activities freely within the period and beyond, as sufficient police officers will be deployed in the capital to maintain law and order in accordance with our Constitutional mandate," the statement added. The business associations to embark on the strike include the Ghana Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the Ghana Automobile Dealers Association, the Food and Beverages Association of Ghana and the Ghana Union of Traders Association (GUTA). Welcome to the Pulse Community! We will now be sending you a daily newsletter on news, entertainment and more. Also join us across all of our other channels - we love to be connected! The objective of LEAP is to enable the poorest families in Ghana to better meet their basic needs, prioritize health, enroll children in school and improve their attendance, increase savings and also work and invest more to pull themselves out of poverty. "I join the President to celebrate with his sixteen "success" stories. Unfortunately, their stories do not constitute the reality that is present day Ghana. For every LEAP beneficiary that allegedly now has ten pigs, I can point to ten hardworking individuals whose businesses have collapsed due to the unfavourable economic conditions." Presenting a speech in Accra on Monday February 29, 2016 in an address dubbed 'The Real State of the Nation Address', Nana Addo noted that important group of beneficiaries which President Mahama omitted during the State of the nation address of the NDC government over the last 8 years are: Alfred Woyome and other beneficiaries of the create, loot and share judgement debt brigade, the beneficiaries of looting the SADA guinea fowl and tree planting schemes, the beneficiaries of the looting of the GYEEDA schemes and the beneficiaries of the looting of the Smarttys bus rebranding scheme. Nana Addo believes the real state of Ghana is that of a nation in crisis. He said, "Everywhere I go, millions of Ghanaians wake up each day to the soul-destroying reality of joblessness. President Mahama gave no indication whatsoever he was aware of the enormity of the unemployment problem that faces our country." It was presented a few weeks ago in India for the very super low cost of 251 rupees (US$3.67). It sounds like an awesome arrangement for a large number of individuals who couldn't generally bear the cost of an advanced mobile phone. Yet, India MP Kirit Somaiya says he's investigated the minimally known organization that makes the telephone and says they're Ponzi scammers. This is a huge scam, that is why I went through all the papers of the company. The government has informed Uttar Pradesh government to check the bonafide of the promoter. This is a Ponzi bogus company scam, Somaiya told ANI. [Indian Express] Penplusbytes, which works to enhance the work of journalists and promote effective governance using technology in Africa, has released its first Social Media Index (SMI) report on Ghana's print, radio and television media houses. The non-profit organisation looked at a range of media's activity and followings on social media as at February 8th, 2016, and how they used Twitter and Facebook to reach out to and engage their target audience. The report looked at 37 newspapers found to be in active operation and/or most visible in newsstands. It also looked at 16 out of the 22 TV stations and 309 out of the 390 radio stations currently operating on air. In checking for the vibrancy of these media entities on social media, the index considered the number of Likes and Followers as key indicators. Through the report it was emphasised how important social media is to news organisations, presenting journalists with a great opportunity to go about their work of generating and disseminating news while also getting their communities to help in reporting. "Twitter and Facebook for examples have exploded so much, leaving very little space for comfort for those who pay little to no attention to it," the report noted. Facebook is the second more visited website, with 2,900,000 users in Ghana, and it was Facebook media houses were more focused on. There were generally fewer Twitter followers than Facebook across the media houses, which the SMI said could reflect the relatively high popularity of Facebook usage among Ghanaians compared to Twitter, although the latters usage has gained popularity over the past few years. The report noted some media houses had huge amounts of followers and worked to keep them updated through social media, but there were many who needed to put more effort in. The researchers said social media is fundamentally changing the nature of the 'news cycle' and putting more pressure on editors over what to report and when. Consequently, newspapers have embraced Facebook and Twitter platforms, and are using it to create an important extra layer of information and diverse opinion. Out of the 37 newspapers accessed, 20 of them have Facebook pages, however some newspaper publishing companies have more than one newspaper brand, and the company may have one Facebook page for all its papers. But again, a Twitter presence was lacking - of the 37 newspapers researched, only 6 were found with active twitter handles. The researchers found many media houses owning various social media platforms have fallen short in the area of managing those accounts with some of them having last updated their pages in over months and even years, defeating the purpose for which such platforms are needed. It was a tad disturbing to see social media was not being managed effectively as it shouldnt be that hard for a media organisation with so much to share by way of content, the report said. Stephen Odonkor ODugbatey the former field technician was sacked after an accident in line of duty incapacitated him. According to the plaintiff, he was in Vodafones official vehicle being driven by its official driver when they had an accident that caused the car to somersault about four times and hit a ditch, causing him to become unconscious for three days. A medical report from the 37 Military Hospital said, Mr Odugbatey was badly incapacitated as he had blunt trauma to the back of his body, dislocation of the vertebral column, contusion of the soft tissue of the back, loss of dentures, lacerations in the buccal cavity with haemorrhage, dislocation of the mandibular bone joint, blunt trauma to both eyes, shattered left elbow among many other serious injuries. "I was still in my hospital bed when Vodafone laid me off September 15, 2010" Mr. ODugbatey lamented. He goes on to reveal that the company reinstated him briefly after he protested in 2011, only to be sacked again. He contended that the termination of his appointment was discriminatory and amounted to an unfair labour practice.A statement of claim accompanying the writ of summons said Mr Odugbatey was a trained field engineer and was appointed by Vodafone from February 1, 2005 until his appointment was unlawfully terminated on October 5, 2012. During a visit from the Business Development Manager of Stallion Group, Abah Ben, the minister said full vehicle assemblage in Nigeria would boost governments revenue, and create employment. This Day Live reports that Onu said this would also increase the company's profits. Government wants you to manufacture locally because if you do this, you will create more job and double the 20, 000jobs that you have now as there are about 1,000 parts in a vehicle and each parts can be manufactured in a small or a medium size economy. In that way, you will be growing the economy and also generate more revenue. We also want a situation where you will do research because of you have presence in so many countries, you ought to do research in Nigeria, and it is these Nigerians that will do the research. That is how government will come in and protect our interest as it wants you to move in this direction. For example if we take a decision now as a policy that we are going to patronize made-in-Nigeria cars, but now it will be difficult to know who is driving the ones produced here and the imported ones into the country We will urge you to move from assembling to manufacturing. We believe that it will be good for you because when you start manufacturing you will engage more Nigerians. Nigerians will own what you do and that is one way it will be easy for Nigerians to patronise their products, it will help us in creating jobs." Ben announced that the company has acquired the Delta Steel Company, Ovwian-Aladja, Delta State, adding that this would help the company get 80% of its content from Nigeria. "You will realise that we have taken over Aladja Steel and Mines Limited, and we are working and hoping that with our international agencies, we will begin to produce Nigerian vehicle parts from that mill. He said this was part of the company's plan to manufacture 100% Made-in-Nigeria cars by 2020. Stallion Group currently manufactures cars with 17 to 25% of local content. Folawiyo is highly regarded for her vibrant collections that mix traditional West African fabrics with modern tailoring and beaded embellishments. Over the years she has garnered international recognition for their work, including joining the Business of Fashion 500 (BoF) List for 2015. The former lawyer, wife and mother of two has mastered the art of making traditional African prints appealing to not just Nigerians and Africans but the rest of the world. She has been present in the UK, the US, South Africa and Nigeria itself. Pulse got to chat with the fashion designer and entrepreneur on her daily fashion style, what inspires it and how long it takes for her: The style star confessed that she doesnt over think her dressing; that she doesnt pick out clothes a night before but rather goes with the flow in the morning. Also aside from being in jeans most time, the fashion designer usually uses a focal point, such as a handbag or shoes in getting her entire outfit together. Sometimes, its just about how to wear a shirt different today. Welcome to the Pulse Community! We will now be sending you a daily newsletter on news, entertainment and more. Also join us across all of our other channels - we love to be connected! Welcome to the Pulse Community! We will now be sending you a daily newsletter on news, entertainment and more. Also join us across all of our other channels - we love to be connected! The teenage girl was on August 12, 2015, abducted in Bayelsa by one Yinusa, aka Yellow. The kidnapper is said to be a long standing customer of the victim's mother, Mrs. Rose Oruru, a food vendor in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital. Yellow allegedly took Ese to Kano state, where he forcefully converted her to Islam and married her. The story has sparked outrage on social media, with many demanding for Ese's release, including the Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi II. Speaking to Punch, Arase said: The Emir decided that he was going to mediate. But, because of his trip to Mecca with the President; that was what caused the delay. But now that he is back, we are going to sort it out as quickly as possible. The Magistrate, Mr Tijanni Zololo, who handed down the verdict, said Abraham was guilty as charged. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Abraham had pleaded guilty to the charges and begged for leniency. Zololo, who ordered that the convict should be given 20 strokes of the cane, asked the courts registrar to destroy the master key used by the convict to commit the crime. The magistrate, who said the sentence was meant to serve as a deterrent to others, however, gave the convict an option of N15, 000 fine. Abraham, who resides at Angwan Rukuba in Jos, Plateau capital, was arraigned for mischief and theft. NAN also reports that the accused had in his plea blamed unemployment and the devil for the crime. He said: "I have never done this before, this is my first time and I promise that I will not do it again. Earlier, the prosecutor, Cpl. James Idoku told the court that the complainant, Mrs Gloria Ikonji reported the incident at `A Division Police Station on Feb. 21. Idoku said the accused had used a master key to open the complainants Honda Civic car valued at N700, 000 parked near the Central Bank Roundabout. He said the accused was about to drive off the car when the complainant raised an alarm and was immediately apprehended by passersby. According to witnesses, the incident happened at a location called Funmilayo junction, when the man, said to be a notorious robber in the area, was arrested while making away with the stolen item. It was gathered that One Mopol had gone to a house located at Sura Odumakin Street in the area at about 5am, to steal the TV but was unlucky as he was seen while attempting to escape by a resident who raised an alarm and he was was caught. The angry mob which quickly gathered, descended on him and beat him mercilessly before he was rescued by a police team from the nearby Elere Division. As the policemen were leading him away, he allegedly vowed to go after those who beat him whenever he was released by the police, a statement that allegedly incensed the crowd. They reportedly snatched the suspect from the police, tied him with a rope and dragged him to the junction where he was set ablaze. An eyewitness who identified himself as Diran Oderinde, narrated how the whole incident played out: I was woken up around 6.30am by the commotion caused by his arrest. One Mopol was a known robber in this community and he robbed with confidence. He stole the plasma television at Sura Odumakin in the Papa area but was caught by a resident when he was about to escape. He robbed alone with a cutlass. Last Saturday night, he robbed a woman selling food on Abiba Street and raped her. When One Mopol was caught this morning (Saturday), the woman came to the scene and discovered that he was the one who actually attacked her. This was the case with these very disturbing photographs that were shared on Twitter over the weekend by a usere with the name Aliyu Kwarbai, where an an unfortunate young lady fell a victim of the mindless killers who murdered her, ripped open her stomach and removed the intestines as well as her heart which was also removed. The charge sheet reads: One of the accused Mahmood Ahmadu(who is at large) in connivance with Drexel Tech Nigeria Ltd, lavished the total of N423,800,000.00(Four Hundred and Twenty Three Million, Eight Hundred Thousand naira) part of the N676,675,000 (Six Hundred and Seventy Six Million, Six Hundred and Seventy Five Thousand Naira) gotten from the applicants on the following: the sum N202, 500, 000( Two Hundred and Two Million Five Hundred Thousand naira ) in purchase of a property in a choice area of the Federal Capital territory, N120, 100,000 (One Hundred and twenty Million One hundred Thousand Naira ) used in upgrading a property in Abuja, while the total of N101, 200, 000( One Hundred and One Million Two Hundred thousand Naira) was converted to United states dollars for personal use. They called on the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), to release him based on personal recognition, so he can receive proper medical attention. Also, Badehs lawyers have written Minister of Justice and Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, saying the EFCC has set difficult conditions for the bail of the ex military chief. The lawyers also wondered if the EFCC had a hidden agenda, adding that the ex-CDS has been co-operating with the agency since his arrest. EFCC operatives, on Tuesday, February 9, raided the home of former Chief of Defence Staff Alex Badeh after he had been interrogated for 24 hours. Badeh was also linked to a N4.4 billion money laundering investigation being conducted with regards to the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA). Ekorong a Dong told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos that it would be unfair for the Cameroonian government to repatriate those Nigerians that had fled to Cameroon for safety. The Consul-General said that his government would continue to respect the existing strong regional cooperation between Nigeria and Cameroon, and would, therefore, not treat the Nigerians badly. "Let me say without hesitation that the rumour that the Cameroonian government plans to repatriate Nigerian refugees is completely wrong. "What my government and the Nigerian government are jointly working on is to find a lasting solution to how best to bring them back and get them re-integrated into their communities. "So, we do not see this as any kind of repatriation. Repatriation has to do with the deportation of people. "But this is not the case because our two governments are already discussing on the most appropriate process for them to return to their communities, he said. Ekorong aDong said that the Nigerian Minister of Interior had recently visited Cameroon and had fruitful discussions with his Cameroonian counterpart and the Prime Minister on the issue of the refugees. The Envoy, who said that some of the refugees had started returning on their own to their communities in Nigeria, added that his government had not requested the refugees to leave. "The Nigerian and Cameroonian governments are still working on the appropriate measures and solutions for bringing back those who are eager to return to their communities. "We are looking at a situation where those who still want to stay in Cameroon can stay, and those who want to return to their communities are able do so at their will. We are not forcing any of them to leave, he said. Mallam Garba Shehu, Senior Special Assistant to the President, announced this in a statement issued in Abuja on Sunday. According to the statement, President Buhari, who expressed deep shock at the latest incident during the past week, which led to hundreds of deaths in four communities in Agatu, Benue, ordered security agencies to get to the root causes of the problem. ``We will conduct an investigation to know exactly what happened; the only way to bring an end to the violence once and for all is to look beyond one incident and ascertain exactly what factors are behind the conflicts, the statement quoted the president as saying. ``We are all one nation and one people. ``There should not be any reason why Nigerians of any group or tongue cannot now reside with one another wherever they find themselves after decades of living together. The President further expressed condolences to the government and people of Benue, particularly the people of the Agatu communities. He assured the affected communities that the government would do everything possible to ensure that no such incident ever occurred in their midst again. According to the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, the President was shocked at the incident. Shehu also said Buhari has asked security agencies to investigate the root cause of the matter. According to the Presidents media aide, Buhari said We will conduct an investigation to know exactly what happened; the only way to bring an end to the violence once and for all is to look beyond one incident and ascertain exactly what factors are behind the conflicts, the President was quoted as saying. We are all one nation and one people. There should not be any reason why Nigerians of any group or tongue cannot now reside with one another wherever they find themselves after decades of living together. Once the investigations are concluded, we will act immediately to address the root of the problem. Buhari also expressed his condolences to the people and government of Benue state. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the certificate of return was given to him at INEC headquarters by Amb. Lawrence Nwuruku, INEC National Commissioner on Monday, in Abuja. Receiving the certificate, Mark said his victory at the Benue South rerun election was a renewed mandate to continue to serve God and humanity without blemish. "In the current democratic dispensation, I am the only Nigerian till the date who has contested Senatorial election six times, won six times and received certificate of return six times. "When I got the fifth one it was a great record for me but when I got the sixth one now, it is also a great privilege for me and I appreciate it. "I want to assure Nigerians that I will do my work as a senator, representing Benue South. "For the confidence, trust and love for me, I will continue to serve honestly with all my heart. My actions will be guided always with the fear of God," Mark said. Mark who commended INEC for great work it was doing, was of the view that the electioneering should be less cumbersome to enable more qualified Nigerians participate. "Whatever it is, we in the National Assembly will continue to improve on the electoral process. "My prayer is that we will get to a level where people will vote freely without security agencies and without any problem that will disrupt elections. Presenting the certificate to Mark, Nwuruku said the certificate was a confirmation that Mark won the Benue South Senatorial rerun election according to the rules and regulations guiding the conduct of elections. He reminded elected public officers that election was a process towards rendering services to the society and making life much easier and meaningful to the ordinary man. Ese's abduction saga had sparked outrage among Nigerians since the story was reported by Punch newspaper yesterday, February 28. It was reported that the girl was kidnapped by Yinusa 'Yellow', a long time customer who patronised the victims mother, a food vendor in Yenagoa, Bayels capital. He had taken Ese to Kano state, where he converted her to Islam and forcefully married her. But contrary to the report, an audio recording obtained by Premium Times, revealed that Ese willing eloped to Kano with Yinusa who is her lover. My name is Aisha Chuwas. I am 17-year-old. I came here to be a Muslim and I will stay here, she said in the audio while being interrogated by a police officer in Kano. Also speaking to a human rights lawyer, Huwaila Mohammed, at the Zonal Police Headquarters in Kano, Ese she will ever return to Bayelsa. I was there to protect her rights. When I approached her initially, she refused to talk to me. Later she opened up to me," Ms. Mohammed said. She is very defiant. She told me she was born in February 1999. I personally wanted her to reunite with her family, but surprisingly she asked me to tell her mother that she will never return to Bayelsa. The police should ensure that she is protected and returned to her family. She is still not matured enough to take such a weighty decision without parental consent. The lawyer said she also found that Ese's so called lover is equally a young boy. I was surprised when I saw a very small boy. He is just 18-year old. I was enraged thinking that it was an old man involved in the saga. From the way I see it, they eloped not because of religion but love, she said. Reacting to the saga, the Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi dismissed reports that Ese was being held captive in his palace. The emir said since September 2015, Miss Oruru had been handed over to the police AIG Zone 1, Tambari Yabo, the emirate council, asking him to her back to her family in Bayelsa. He said the district head of Kura brought the case to the palace when Yunusa presented Ese to the district office, seeking approval to marry her. The emir attached the girl with the palace emissary, Jakadan Mallam, and one of her relatives to go to the police headquarters, the emirs Chief of Staff, Munir Sanusi explained. Since she alleged threats from members of his family, we involved the police to provide security. Ransome-Kuti, who is a nephew of Afrobeat legend, Fela Kuti, was jailed for six months after allowing weapons to fall into the hands of Boko Haram Islamists during a deadly attack. Falana accused the military of unjustly sentencing and dismissing his client from the Nigerian Army. According to Punch, the lawyer decried the fact that Ransome-Kuti was still in military custody after spending four calendar months. Falana also added that his clients continued detention was not in line with the Armed Forces Act and the Constitution. Punch reports that Falana also said he might approach the court for the enforcement of Ransome-Kutis fundamental right to personal liberty guaranteed by section 35 of the Constitution and Article 6 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples Rights (Ratification and Enforcement) Act. Sheriffs threat to sue for N10 billion was contained in an advertorial published in ThisDay Newspaper by the law firm of Chief Godwin Obla. The PDP Chairmans lawyers also urged Fani-Kayode to withdraw the defamatory statement within seven days or face litigation. The former ministers response was contained in a statement released by his media aide, Jude Ndukwe on Sunday, February 28, 2016. It reads in part: Though we have not received a formal letter from his lawyers to that effect, we wish to inform him and members of the public that we stand by everything that we have said about Sheriff, we have briefed our lawyers, we welcome the suit and we shall gladly meet him in court. The days of silencing people with arrogant threats and frivolous litigation are long over. We cannot be silenced by Modu Sheriffs threat to sue and we are not losing any sleep over it. Such a course of action will prove not only to be counter-productive for him but by the time it is all over he will get the shocker of his life. Fayose recently accused President Muhammadu Buhari of plotting to turn Nigeria into a solely Islamic country. A statement released by its Director, Prof. Ishaq Akintola said Turbulence in the price of oil has greatly impoverished Nigeria and Buhari is employing diplomacy to turn round Nigerias oil fortune. Playing pranks with Buharis visit to Saudi Arabia simply shows that Fayose has lost all sense of objectivity. Nigerians should help us ask Fayose where he was when his erstwhile mentor and former President Jonathan turned Jerusalem to the back-yard of Aso Rock, shuttling between Nigeria and Israel. Fayose prefers to cast a wicked joke with the fate of the Nigerian economy. Buhari bases his conclusion on the fact that the sect no longer has the capability to capture territories. What the president fails to mention however is that Boko Haram is still killing Nigerians. On January 30, 2016, about a month after Buhari said that Boko Haram had been technically defeated, the sect attacked Dalori Village in Borno State and left about 60 people dead. The terrorists were said to have burnt children alive during the invasion which continued for hours without military intervention. Since then, Boko Haram insurgents have killed four people in Mairi and Malari in the Konduga Local Government Area of Borno State, 40 people between February 8 and 9, also in Borno and six people in Kuda Village in the Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa State on February 15. Granted the casualty figures have drastically reduced compared to the heydays of Boko Haram, but every single Nigerian life taken by the sect is a loss. Unfortunately, President Buhari issued a rather insensitive response to the Dalori attacks which he said were part of a plot to embarrass his government. Having lost the war, they (the insurgents) are seeking ways and means to gradually find their way back into society, Buhari said in a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Mallam Garba Shehu. They are not returning to contribute but to cause more havoc. They are so desperate to embarrass the government and the people that they have no qualms attacking isolated communities and markets, the statement added. Expressing a similarly unfortunate sentiment, Buhari said, while speaking in Qatar on Sunday, February 28, 2016, that Boko Haram is no longer a threat. We, however, take pride to inform you that since our coming to power, Boko Haram has been systematically decimated and are in no position to cause serious threat to our development programmes, he said. Dear Mr President, the war against Boko Haram is not about your government neither is it about your development programmes, its about the helpless people who are being butchered like flies, the people who the government is still failing daily. It is highly insensitive for government officials to boast of how Boko Haram has been defeatedwhen lives are still being lost and many displaced persons are still stranded in camps unable to return home. It is even more insensitive to talk about how the sect can no longer hold territories or threaten the government, as if the people who are being killed are of secondary importance. Dear President Buhari, you were elected because you promised to change things, so now its time for you to change how the government views its citizens. The Women Affairs Minister, Senator Jummai Alhassan, had vow to ensure the teenager's release following the public outrage the story caused shortly after Punch launched a campaign tagged #FreeEse. Ese was abducted in Bayelsa stateon August 12, 2015, she was 13 years old at the time, by Yinusa, who was said to be a long standing customer of the victim's mother, Mrs Rose Oruru, a food vendor in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State capital. Yinusa took Ese to Kano state, converted her to Islam and forcefully married her. He was said to have held the girl captive in the Emir of Kano, Lamido Sanusi's palace. If the decision to sack Ruquayyat Tijjani is not reversed within 24 hours, we would be forced to shut down the state in a fresh strike action Adeke said."The government's action was a breach of contract with Labour that no single civil servant will be victimized after the strike action Adeka added. Barrister Ruquayyat Tijjani Usman has been a Grade level 10 steps 1 since March 2nd 2012 as a Senior State Sounsel. She lost her job on February 25th 2016 due to a Facebook post on February 17th 2016.Ruquayyat Tijjani was quoted in the post as saying, "I can see political thugs on the street protesting and not some professionals. ...are we going down this way?? I weep for my state"Her comment on the way the state government was handling the Lassa Fever outbreak in the state which led to the death of a health worker with the Dalhatu Araf Specialist Hospital, Lafia was said to be one of the reasons that pit the state government against her. He claimed that an interlocutory injunction had been granted on Nov. 21, 2008 by Justice M.O. Ishola in a suit with number 1/421/07. Quoting the documents, he said an order of interlocutory injunction was granted `` restraining the fourth to ninth defendants from presenting themselves for selection, appointment, promotion or filling of any vacancy now existing or that may later exist. "The positions are the Ekerin Olubadan; Ashipa Olubadan, Osi Olubadan, Otun Olubadan and the Olubadan of Ibadan chieftaincy, pending the hearing and final determination of the originating summons filed by the plaintiffs/applicants in this suit, he added. The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Oyediji had applied for Form 48 through his counsel, A.G. Adeniran, on Feb. 23, 2016, through a letter addressed to the Senior Registrar, High Court of Justice Registry, Iyaganku, Ibadan. The letter was dated Feb. 22 and entitled: "Re Suit No: 1/421/07 Chief Adebayo Oyediji & ORS vs His Royal Majesty Oba Samuel Lana & ORS. Oyediji, 89, said that he took what he described as an unfriendly option because he had no other option. He said he owed no grudge against anyone, adding that the rule of law was sacrosanct irrespective of anyone. "There was a motion in 2008 to stop the installation or promotion of chiefs, but the case had been adjourned more than 50 times and now we've been pushed to the wall, he said. In the letter that accompanied the copy of the motion on notice and a photocopy of the request form of request, Adeniran said Adetunji disregarded the order of the court by presenting himself for coronation on Friday. The suit had the plaintiffs as Chief Adebayo Oyediji, Oyesola Oyeranmi, Olalekan Adisa Fakunle, Ganiyu Oduola Sagade and Rasidi Abinupagun. Others are Gabriel Kofoworola Amoo and Yisau Olanrewaju Ajibike, acting for themselves and on behalf of Seriki Chiefs of Ibadanland. The defendants are the Governor of Oyo State, Attorney-General of Oyo State, Oba Samuel Lana (added by order of court made on 14 of Jan. 2008). Lana was added to represent himself and on behalf of (1) all chiefs in the Olubadan and Balogun lines and (2) for himself and on behalf of the other members of the Ibadan South-East Local Government Chieftaincy Committee. Others defendants are Chiefs Musa Omowale Kuye, Lati Omotosho, Sule Omiyale, Adeleke Ajani, Saliu Adetunji and Busari Alarape. Adeniran said that "with absolute disregard for the said orders of the Honourable Court, Adetunji, who is the eight defendant, was bound by the third and fourth legs of the orders of injunction. "With absolute disregard for the said orders of the Honourable Court, Adetunji has presented himself to the purported kingmakers of the Olubadan of Ibadan chieftaincy and the governor of Oyo State for appointment as the Olubadan of Ibadan. Speaking through a spokesman, Comrade Yusuf Yunusa, the residents described Muhammad Bellos stint as minister as a total waste of time and waste of tax payers money without anything to show for it. Yusuf told journalists in Abuja that with the level at which the FCT minister is handling the affairs of the territory, shows clearly that he lacks economic team. The Minister has no special advisers and mandate secretaries to aid his administration to achieve the needed change in the territory he said. IPOB expressed the sentiment via a statement released by its United Kingdom spokesmen, Dr Clifford Iroanya and Emma Mmezu. It reads: We are in court and our wish is to expose the fraudulent charge of treasonable felony before the whole world. At the end of this case, the corrupt and compromised segment of the Nigerian judiciary will be publicly disgraced. Our march to freedom is unstoppable; this is something Buhari ought to know. We have come to die for Biafra if that is what it will take to be free. Our resolve should not be underestimated. As our leader will always say, Nigeria will kill us, we will kill them but in the end, we will win. People alleged to be members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and Ohanaeze Youth wing were said to have met with some Americans at Nike Lake Resort Hotel between 6pm and 7pm Saturday evening. If any country or group is coming to Nigeria to discuss anything concerning IPOB and the release or freedom of our incarcerated leader and Director of Radio Biafra, Mr. Nnandi Kanu, it is not Ohanaeze Ndigbo or their youth wing that will speak for us because they are not our members and so, cannot represent or speak for us. We urged the Americans who came for the meeting that the alleged representatives of IPOB did not represent or have our support. Nobody speaks or represents IPOB except its principal and designated officers. We learnt that they cornered some Americans who came to Enugu to have audience with the IPOB over the way forward on the issue of Biafra agitation and the continued incarceration of our leader Mr. Nnamdi Kanu. A statement issued in Abuja by the presidents Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Femi Adesina, said the president stated this while speaking at a bilateral meeting with the Sheikh Tamim Bin Hammad Al-Thani, the Emir of the State of Qatar. ``As members of OPEC and Gas Exporting Countries Forum (GECF), our relations in the areas of oil and gas, which our two nations heavily rely on, need to be enhanced and coordinated for the benefit of our people. ``The current market situation in the oil industry is unsustainable and totally unacceptable. ``We must cooperate both within and outside our respective organisations to find a common ground to stabilise the market, which will be beneficial to our nations, he emphasised. The President noted with delight the existing cordial bilateral relations between Nigeria and Qatar. He, therefore, invited prospective Qatari investors to take advantage of the abundant opportunities in Nigeria and invest in the key areas of energy, agriculture, real estate development, banking and finance. He assured prospective investors of government protection of their persons and investment. President Buhari said in the course of his visit, the delegations from Nigeria and Qatar would formalise at least two bilateral agreements to boost economic cooperation between both countries. He also weighed-in on the situation in the Middle East, commending the role Qatar was playing in resolving the present Syrian crisis, the Palestinian course and efforts in reconstructing Gaza. ``The conflicts in Yemen and Syria, with their attendant humanitarian crisis, need genuine international effort to solve. ``Nigeria as a peace loving country identifies with the State of Qatar in all her peace efforts in the world to end terrorist activities. ``Nigeria is a victim of terrorism. It is with heavy heart that I stand before you and say activities of Boko Haram have led to loss of many lives and displacement of innocent people in our dear nation. ``We, however, take pride to inform you that since our coming to power, Boko Haram has been systematically decimated and are in no position to cause serious threat to our development programmes. ``I wish to reiterate that Nigeria rejects violence and extremism in all their ramifications, and assure your Highness that we are with the State of Qatar in your efforts to fight terrorism and injustice in your region and in the world at large. President Buhari also called for a lasting solution to the Israeli Palestinian conflict, saying ``we in Nigeria, like the State of Qatar, favour a Two State solution, with the State of Palestine living side by side with the State of Israel. ``I want to assure you that we will stand side by side with you, until our brothers and sisters in Palestine achieve their desired objectives. Find out what is making headlines all over the country from the covers of The Punch, Vanguard, The Guardian and more. For today, Monday, February 29 2016: VANGUARD NEWSPAPER Terminal operators owe FG N86.2bn Ports charges, feesTerminal operators in Nigeria are currently indebted to the Federal Government to the tune of $433.4 million, about N86.2 billion, for lease and container throughput fees as at December 2015, Financial Vanguard investigation has revealed. But most of the terminal operators when contacted said they were up to date with their payments to the Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA. READ MORE N676m NIS recruitment scam: Abba Moro, 4 others to be arraigned todayAfter being detained for almost a week, former Interior Minister, Abba Moro, will be arraigned today before Justice Anwuli Chikere of the Federal High Court Abuja, to answer to charges of abuse of procurement process and diversion of public funds preferred against him and four others by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, EFCC. READ MORE Forex scarcity: OPS loses N1.46trn in 6 monthsKADUNA The Kaduna Chamber of Commerce, Industry, Mines and Agriculture, KADCCIMA, yesterday, said investors in various sectors of the economy were weighing the negative impact of the scarcity of foreign exchange on their businesses, noting that within six months, members of the Organised Private Sector lost about N1.46 trillion.READ MORE_________________________________________________ THE GUARDIAN NEWSPAPER Why govt economic team excludes private sectorFOR optimal results, the Economic Management Team (EMT) of President Muhammadu Buhari is to operate differently from that of his predecessor. READ MORE Ijebu, Igbo are Jews from IsraelWHERE are the historical roots of the Ijebu and the Igbo? For a Nigerian researcher, Dr. Fatai Ayisa Olasupo, these roots are firmly located in the Middle East, precisely Israel. READ MORE Fuel queues return to major citiesWITH long queues of vehicles at filling stations, Nigerians are again contending with the scarcity of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), otherwise known as petrol. READ MORE_________________________________________________ THE PUNCH NEWSPAPER Buhari dumps N5,000 jobseekers allowancePresident Muhammadu Buhari has ruled out the payment of N5, 000 monthly allowances to unemployed youths in the country as promised by his party, the All Progressives Congress, ahead of the 2015 presidential election. READ MORE Nigerians carpet IG, Sanusi over Eses abduction, forced marriageNigerians have expressed outrage over the alleged abduction of 14-year-old Ese Oruru by one Yinusa, aka Yellow, who also forced her into marriage. Nigerians, who read the story of the helpless minor on The PUNCHs website on Sunday, took a swipe at the inactions of the authorities, saying the girl was abandoned to wallow in captivity. READ MORE Ghost workers: FG saves N2.29bn monthly, says ministerThe Federal Government said on Sunday that the removal of 23,846 non-existing workers from its payroll had led to a monthly reduction of N2.29bn in its salary bill. READ MORE_________________________________________________ THE NATION NEWSPAPER EFCC sends INTERPOL after Moros accompliceA big manhunt is on the way for a key suspect in the Immigration jobs scandal, which claimed 19 lives in 2014, The Nation learnt yesterday. READ MORE In a statement released to newsmen, Peterside accused Wike of arming cult groups. The APC flag bearer said, It is regrettable but true that in many communities in Rivers State today cult gangs hold sway. They control the social and economic souls of the people, including traditional structures which have been rendered impotent. The cult gangs were armed by politicians in the build up to 2015 general elections. Like Frankenstein monsters, they are now too powerful to those who armed them and had enjoyed pyrrhic benefits from their activities. He said The situation has so degenerated that nobody, including those who created the monsters, feels safe anymore. The physical landscape of Rivers State communities is painted with boys armed to the teeth and walking about freely to the discomfort of citizens. Adding that We are yet to feel the effect of any concrete action taken by Nyesom Wike- led Rivers State Government to stem this worsening insecurity. A town hall meeting which he held in Omoku on the urging of Rt. Hon. Andrew Uchendu degenerated into a display of power by way of suspending three Local Government Caretaker Committee chairmen and a strange order to security agents to kill suspected cultists. According to him, this will be the last year of the all-white Oscars." He also promised a stronger protest next time, next time were going to organize a lot longer and a lot stronger," he said. ALSO READ: undefined He led the protesters on a March near the Dolby Theatre where the 88th Academy Awards is set to hold, with the protesters chanting Show me what diversity looks like against a hip-hop beat playing over a loud speaker. A protester with a Jesus Saves was heard shouting Hollywood is the synagogue of Satan. Earlier in the day, Sharpton spoke at the First AME Church saying There are no blacks who can greenlight a film. We can put a black family in the White House, but we cant put a black in the boardroom of power in Hollywood. ALSO READ: undefined Watch protest below; The 2016 Academy Awards nominations were announced on Thursday, January 14, 2015, featuring all white actors in the four acting categories. Fulani herdsmen allegedly killed over 300 people in Agatu-Benue state. The Governor also called on the Federal Government to find a lasting solution to the menace of the herdsmen. Fayose said Farmlands costing billions of naira have been destroyed in States in the South-West, South-East and North-Central zones of the country. One wonders how Nigerians can go back to farming when those already in the farms are losing billions of naira worth of crops to destruction of their farmlands by the Fulani Herdsmen and the Federal Government is not doing anything about it. He also said If in the last one week, over 300 Nigerians were allegedly killed, several villages razed, with farmlands destroyed by Fulani herdsmen and President Buhari is comfortable junketing from one country to the other, something is definitely wrong somewhere. This is because in saner climes, no country will have over 300 of its citizens reportedly killed with thousands others displaced and the leader of such country will not rush home from wherever he is to take charge of the situation by himself. Okupe described Osinbajos statement as a lie and an absolute falsehood in a post on his Facebook page. The post reads: This statement is a lie and an absolute falsehood. Many people have said so. But this is not why I am writing this. It was a wrong statement made in a wrong place and before a wrong audience. This is perhaps one of the most difficult posts I have made to date. Yemi Osinbajo and I have a few things in common. He is a professional in politics like me. He is a practising Christian and a revered Pastor. I am a practising Christian and an aspiring Evangelist. We both are alumni of Igbobi College, Yaba, Lagos. His younger brother and mine were classmates at Igbobi and are both pastors of the Fountain of life church, Ilupeju, where I became grounded in Christianity under the mentorship of the celebrated and revered man of God, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya. My concern is the erroneous assumption that just because the VP is a Christian therefore every Christian is APC. The church must also be sensitive and mindful of the danger in bringing politics into the church. For Prof Osinbajo, if only he remembered the Igbobi college motto omnes unum in domino meaning all are one in the Lord, he would not have committed such a blunder. Our God is God of APC, PDP, Labour etc. Having said this, the VP is someone I hold in very high esteem and he knows this. I am also proud of his role in this administration. Osinbajo had made the remark while speaking at a pastors retreat in Lagos on Friday, February 26. --------------------------------------- According to Vanguard, they asked that the funds, which was voted in the 2016 budget of the Ministry of Federal Capital Territory (FCT), be slashed. They have notified the chairmen of the Committees on FCT in both chambers to reflect the decision in their report to the Committees on Appropriation, the newspaper reports. The top legislators said building houses worth N6billion and N4billion respectively for them amid deepening economic crisis would be insensitive. Tinubu made the comment after being honoured with a Doctor of Business degree at the convocation ceremony of the University of Abuja on Saturday, February 27, 2016, Punch reports. Nigeria stands in the corridor between greatness and failure; between progress and collapse; between hope and despair, the APC leader said. Our fate depends on whether we would summon the courage to take the bold steps and move in the direction. We must turn our present challenges into opportunities for the re-engineering of our nations economic challenges. If you ask me to describe the state of the nation, I would say it is a difficult but encouraging one. We are emerging from a period of great moral uncertainty, where vice and virtue were too often indistinguishable and too often confused, one for the other. The journey we have embarked upon will not be easy. It requires all of us to make sacrifices and persevere until we achieve. Nigeria needs some fundamental restructuring, both politically and economically; not the constant tinkering and patch-patch we often resort to. We must therefore begin with fundamentally restructuring of the economy if we are to rid ourselves of joblessness. Tinubu also urged Nigerians to return to agriculture to ensure the production of food items for domestic consumption and exports. ------------------------------------------------ She was seven months pregnant and suffered from diabetes. New York Post has reported that the Vatican, however, has called for an investigation into the womans death. Police have interviewed her brother, her ex-husband and her most recent boyfriend, who is believed to be a policeman employed by the Vatican. Investigators will also perform a DNA test on Wuolous foetus to determine the paternity of the unborn child. Wuolous apartment has been sealed off; forensic teams have combed it for evidence and have even removed several personal effects for further examination, neighbours told The Daily Beast. A funeral service for Wuolou was held on Saturday, February 27th. Prof. Suleiman Muhammad, Zonal Coordinator, ASUU Abuja Zone said the governor should have waited for the Court of Appeal to decide on UNIBENs appeal before embarking on the demolition. Gov. Oshiomhole should live up to his promise to compensate the members of staff of the UNIBEN who were affected by the demolition. Members of the public will recall the uproar generated by his action sometime ago, when he demolished property occupied by staff of the University of Benin. This action came on the heels of a court judgment in the favour of Edo State Government against which the university immediately filed an appeal. Rather than allowing the case to run its course in the court of appeal, Mr Oshiomhole carried on with the demolition, Muhammad said. Muhammad said that the governor made several promises to the leadership of ASUU when the union raised objection to the demolition. He also promised to allow the ongoing court process to run its course. To the surprise of the leadership of the ASUU, especially its members at UNIBEN, Oshiomhole has gone back on his words. He has directed the complete demolition of the remaining part of the structures that were the properties of UNIBEN while the Court of Appeal is yet to decide on the case, Muhammad said. The ads targeting Apple showcase that the Mac doesnt offer equivalents to any of the 'many' offerings on the Windows 10 desktop, according to a report by The Verge. I dont have a touchscreen on my Mac. Im jealous of that. Even on the new Macs, they dont have that, a woman says in the ad, I see you Microsoft. Each of the ad highlights something the Mac doesn't have or some kind of function it can't perform, ending with the tagline, "Windows 10 PCs do more." I'm not an advocate of violence but hey, it's good to see that Microsoft is not willing to lose the PC fight like it has seemingly conceded the smartphone fight. The event will be an informative event aimed at providing an avenue to open a two-way conversation with engineering teams of leading tech companies, developing relationships with Silicon Valley practitioners and knowledge transfer of tangible technology to technical personnel. The trip will be themed "Building for Scalability and High Availability", and the companies to be visited were selected based on this - they represent firms that deliver uninterrupted service to massive concurrent users and is open to all tech heads that are interested in expanding their knowledge. During the trip, participants will be visiting Google, Airbnb, 500Startups, 4Info, GoogleVentures, Oracle, SAP, WesternUnionDigital, FoundersSpace, and Galvanize. The organizers also expect to bring Facebook, Uber, TaskRabbit, PayPal, eBay, and Twitter on board for the trip. The company will be holding an information session to answer questions on the trip on March 3rd, 2016 at Cre8/Cafe Neo, Victoria Island, Lagos. In June, authorities announced an investigation over serious discipline violations, a euphemism for corruption, into Alimjan Maimaitiming, 56, a former secretary general in the government of Xinjiang, home to many of China's ethnic Muslim Uighurs. The violations were "extremely severe" and "gravely damaged party unity", the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI) said on its website late on Sunday. The suspected crimes ranged from "forming cliques and factions" and opposing investigation to transferring criminal proceeds, destroying evidence, abusing his power and having improper sexual relations, the watchdog said in its statement. Alimjan Maimaitiming's official biography says he is from Cherchen, also known by its Chinese name of Qiemo, in the heavily Uighur deep south of Xinjiang. He was previously editor-in-chief of the official Xinjiang Daily. Also transferred to prosecutors, the anti-graft watchdog said in a separate statement, was the case of Xie Hui, who ran the Xinjiang prison system from 2010 until his promotion in 2013 to be a vice head of the Xinjiang public security bureau. Xie, 53, who was put under investigation in July, seriously violated party discipline and rules for the appointment of officials, besides abusing his power, and receiving "huge sums" from undetermined sources, it said. Hundreds have died in recent years in unrest in Xinjiang, blamed by the government on Islamist militants who want to establish an independent state called East Turkestan. However, many rights groups and foreign experts say the root cause of the problems is unhappiness among Uighurs over controls on their religion and culture. France, though, said it had information about fresh attacks on zones held by moderate rebels, and called for an immediate meeting of the Syria task force to address breaches of the cessation of hostilities that came into force on Friday. The cessation of hostilities deal is the first of its kind to be attempted in four years. Syria's conflict began in 2011. Stoltenberg told a news conference in the Gulf Arab state of Kuwait: "We have seen some encouraging developments that the ceasefire is largely holding but at the same time we have seen some reports about violations of the ceasefire. "This agreement and the full implementation of the agreement is the best possible basis for renewing the efforts to find a political negotiated peaceful solution to the crisis in Syria," he added. The deal, which is less binding than a formal ceasefire and was not directly signed by Syria's warring government and rebel forces, does not cover action against militants from Islamic State or the Nusra Front, an al Qaeda affiliate. China claims almost the entire South China Sea, believed to have huge deposits of oil and gas. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also have claims on the waters, through which about $5 trillion in trade is shipped every year. Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario's comments came after China's foreign minister, Wang Yi, on a visit to the United States, accused the Philippines of "political provocation" in seeking arbitration to resolve the dispute. "The Philippines, as well as the international community, is asking China to respect the forthcoming ruling of the arbitral tribunal and together advance an international rules-based regime," del Rosario said in a statement in Manila. "If China does not heed our collective call, does it mean that China considers itself above the law?" The tribunal's ruling is expected before May, said del Rosario, who leaves office on March 7 for health reasons. Manila and Beijing had met several times to discuss maritime disputes but nothing had been resolved, he added. Wang held talks last week with his counterpart, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry, who said China was rapidly militarising the waterway after building artificial islands and deploying fighters and missiles. My friend Rachel Kibler asked me the other day "do you have a blog post about why we test software?" and I was surprised to find that, despite having touched on the topic many times, I haven't. So then I thought I'd write one. And then I thought it might be fun to crowdsource so I asked in the Association for Software Testing member's Slack, on LinkedIn , and on Twitter for reasons, one sentence each. And it was fun! Here are the varied answers, a couple lightly edited, with thanks to everyone who contributed. Edit: I did a bit of analysis of the responses in Reasons to be Cheerful, Part 2 . --00-- Software is complicated, and the people that use it are even worse. Andy Hird Because there is what software does, what people say it does, and what other people want it to do, and those are often not the same. Andy Hird Because someone asked/told us to Lee Hawkins To learn, and identify risks Louise Perold sometimes: reducing the risk of harming people WASHINGTON | State of the world, Year Eight of Barack Obama: 1) In the South China Sea, on a speck of land of disputed sovereignty far from its borders, China has just installed anti-aircraft batteries and stationed fighter jets. This after China landed planes on an artificial island it created on another disputed island chain (the Spratlys, claimed by the Philippines, Malaysia, Taiwan and Vietnam). These facilities now function as forward bases for Beijing to challenge seven decades of American naval dominance of the Pacific Rim. "China is clearly militarizing the South China Sea," the commander of the U.S. Pacific Command told Congress on Tuesday. Its goal? "Hegemony in East Asia." 2) Syria. Russian intervention has turned the tide of war. Having rescued the Bashar al-Assad regime from collapse, relentless Russian bombing is destroying the rebel stronghold of Aleppo, Syria's largest city, creating a massive new wave of refugees and demonstrating to the entire Middle East what a Great Power can achieve when it acts seriously. The U.S. response? Repeated pathetic attempts by Secretary of State John Kerry to propitiate Russia (and its ally, Iran) in one collapsed peace conference after another. On Sunday, he stepped out to announce yet another "provisional agreement in principle" on "a cessation of hostilities" that the CIA director, the defense secretary and the chairman of the Joint Chiefs deem little more than a ruse. 3) Ukraine. Having swallowed Crimea so thoroughly that no one even talks about it anymore, Russia continues to trample with impunity on the Minsk cease-fire agreements. Vladimir Putin is now again stirring the pot, intensifying the fighting, advancing his remorseless campaign to fracture and subordinate the Ukrainian state. Meanwhile, Obama still refuses to send the Ukrainians even defensive weapons. 4) Iran. Last Thursday, Iran received its first shipment of S-300 anti-aircraft batteries from Russia, a major advance in developing immunity to any attack on its nuclear facilities. And it is negotiating an $8 billion arms deal with Russia that includes sophisticated combat aircraft. Like its ballistic missile tests, this conventional weapons shopping spree is a blatant violation of U.N. Security Council prohibitions. It was also a predictable and predicted consequence of the Iran nuclear deal that granted Iran $100 billion and normalized its relations with the world. The U.S. response? Words. Unlike gravitational waves, today's strategic situation is not hard to discern. Three major have-not powers are seeking to overturn the post-Cold War status quo: Russia in Eastern Europe, China in East Asia, Iran in the Middle East. All are on the march. To say nothing of the Islamic State, now extending its reach from Afghanistan to West Africa. The international order built over decades by the United States is crumbling. In the face of which, what does Obama do? Go to Cuba. Yes, Cuba. A supreme strategic irrelevance so dear to Obama's anti-anti-communist heart. Is he at least going to celebrate progress in human rights and democracy, which Obama established last year as a precondition for any presidential visit? Of course not. When has Obama ever held to a red line? Indeed, since Obama began his "historic" normalization with Cuba, the repression has gotten worse. Last month, the regime arrested 1,414 political dissidents, the second-most ever recorded. No matter. Amid global disarray and American decline, Obama sticks to his cherished concerns: Cuba, Guantanamo (about which he gave a rare televised address this week) and, of course, climate change. Obama could not bestir himself to go to Paris in response to the various jihadi atrocities sending Kerry instead "to share a big hug with Paris" (as Kerry explained) with James Taylor singing "You've Got a Friend" but he did make an ostentatious three-day visit there for climate change. So why not go to Havana? Sure, the barbarians are at the gates and pushing hard knowing they will enjoy but 11 more months of minimal American resistance. But our passive president genuinely believes that such advances don't really matter that these disruptors are so on the wrong side of history, that their reaches for territory, power, victory are so 20th century. Of course, it mattered greatly to the quarter-million slaughtered in Syria and the millions more exiled. It feels all quite real to a dissolving Europe, an expanding China, a rising Iran, a metastasizing jihadism. Not to the visionary Obama, however. He sees far beyond such ephemera. He knows what really matters: climate change, Gitmo and Cuba. With time running out, he wants these to be his legacy. Indeed, they will be. Helena, Mont. Montana cattle producers and the Montana Department of Agriculture will be hosting an inbound Australian beef cattle trade mission for six days starting on March 10th. The trade mission will work to maintain the strong relationship between Australian and Montanan beef producers, particularly with Montanas high-quality beef genetic seedstock.We had a productive trade mission attending the Beef Australia trade show two years ago and piqued their interest in Montanas high-quality beef seedstock. This is an opportunity to show them our quality firsthand, said Bruce Thomas, owner of Thomas Herefords in Gold Creek, MT.Australia is the 12th largest economy in the world, which normalized a free trade agreement with the United States in 2005. Although Australia is a large beef producer in its own right, beef genetics trade between both countries has been robust, with Australia ranking as the second largest Montana beef semen purchaser in the world. Estimates from USDA indicate that Australia will continue to be a large shipper of live slaughter animals to Southeast Asia, which can be supported by the U.S. seedstock industry by marketing and selling high-quality genetics, via semen and embryos, to Australia.Getting foreign trade partners to visit is a great opportunity for Montana producers. It allows us to showcase our high-quality genetics and good management practices. These trade missions help keep Montanas cattle producers at the forefront of the beef export industry, said Marty Earnheart, Marketing Officer for the department.After developing a dialogue at Beef Australia two years ago, 10 Australian cattle producers will visit Hereford ranching operations in Valier, Willow Creek, Manhattan, and Absarokee before visiting ORIGen in Huntley. The Australian buyers will be arriving in Missoula before traveling across the state.The mission was funded through a U.S. Livestock Genetic Export, Inc. (USLGE) grant that will pay for their hotel and ground transportation, with airfare and meals part of the Australian producers responsibility. USLGE is a not-for-profit, nationwide trade association that represents the international marketing interests of the dairy, beef, sheep, swine, and horse breeding industries.The Montana Department of Agricultures mission is to protect producers and consumers, and to enhance and develop agriculture and allied industries. For more information on the Montana Department of Agriculture, visit agr.mt.gov. HELENA The Montana Supreme Court ruled Thursday that medical marijuana providers should be paid for their services, but it clamped down on commercial sales of the drug by limiting providers to no more than three patients each. The court's decision upheld other provisions of a 2011 state law that represents one of the most significant rollbacks attempted by the 23 states and Washington, D.C., that allow marijuana to be used for medical purposes. The law, meant to curb abuses that led to a flourishing marijuana industry in Montana five years ago, would have banned medical pot providers from receiving any compensation. The court said the sales ban would leave some patients with debilitating illnesses with no available source for the drug. However, the court upheld the requirement that marijuana providers can take on a maximum of three patients each. "The Legislature determined that placing a limit on the number of registered cardholders a provider may assist serves the objectives of keeping marijuana away from large-scale manufacturing operations, making it less appealing to major traffickers," according to the majority opinion written by Justice Beth Baker. The justices also upheld provisions of the law that ban medical marijuana advertising and create an automatic review for doctors who recommend the drug for more than 25 patients. The Montana Cannabis Information Association sued after the Legislature passed the law. Association attorney Jim Goetz called the ruling a setback that will likely drive people to seek marijuana on the black market. "Yesterday, there were 23 states providing for either full recreational use or medical use of marijuana," Goetz said. "Today, we have 22 1/2." Attorneys for the state argued that the Legislature had the authority to limit an industry that had gotten out of control. "I am grateful to the justices for upholding the rule of law and recognizing that it's the Legislature's rightful purview to set state policy on this important issue," Attorney General Tim Fox said in a statement. Montana voters legalized medical marijuana in 2004, but its growth exploded in 2009 after a U.S. Department of Justice memo suggested prosecuting marijuana cases would not be a priority. By 2011, the number of registered users had grown to more than 30,000 in a state of 1 million people, and the number of providers topped 4,800. A booming black-market industry emerged that led to widespread recreational use, state officials said. Then, federal authorities raided large medical marijuana providers and growing facilities across the state, effectively shutting down the industry and prompting the 2011 restrictions by state lawmakers. The restrictions passed after then-Gov. Brian Schweitzer vetoed a bill in 2011 to outlaw medical marijuana. The legal fight that ensued has gone to the state Supreme Court twice. Medical marijuana advocates argued that providers would disappear if they had to give away the drug for free, leaving vulnerable and ill patients who can't grow their own without a way to get the drug. District Judge James Reynolds blocked the restrictions as unconstitutional in 2011, and again in 2012, when the state's high court ordered him to use a different standard of review. Other provisions of the law already have gone into effect, such as stricter requirements to show a medical condition that merits placement on the medical marijuana registry. That contributed to a drop in the numbers and a significant decline in the number of people under 30 who claimed chronic pain as a qualifying condition. Since then, the registry numbers have been creeping up again. As of January, there were 13,640 registered users and 471 providers in the state. HELENA Marijuana dispensaries will have at least two weeks to prepare for severe rollbacks to Montana's medical marijuana law, though most will likely have to shut down, the head of an advocacy group that tried to block the restrictions said Friday. On Thursday, the Montana Supreme Court upheld nearly all of the provisions of a 2011 state law to roll back much of the 2004 voter-approved initiative that legalized medical marijuana. The ruling means that marijuana providers can sell to no more than three registered users each; doctors who recommend the drug to more than 25 patients in a year will be automatically reviewed; and marijuana advertising will be banned. The ruling does not take effect until the judgment is formally entered in district court, which won't happen before March 10, Supreme Court clerk Ed Smith said. That could be delayed further if the plaintiffs who sued to block the 2011 law ask the court for a re-hearing of the case. Mort Reid, president of the lead plaintiff Montana Cannabis Information Association, said he doubted such a request would change anything. "It's highly unlikely that we would be granted a re-hearing on this, so that's probably not an option," Reid said. "My advice to all the providers across the state is in two weeks' time, don't be out of compliance." There were 471 medical marijuana providers for 13,640 registered patients at the end of January, according to the most recent data from the state Department of Public Health and Human Services. Of those providers, 325 supply the drug to more people than the three-patient limit set by state lawmakers and upheld by the Supreme Court's decision. The largest provider has more than 770 patients. Reid acknowledged most of those large operations will have to shut down. Even if all 471 continued to operate with only three patients each, that would leave more than 12,200 patients without a legal way to buy medical marijuana, he said. "People are getting panicked," Reid said. "I'm sure they're trying to stock up and get ready for the impact." Enforcement of the new restrictions mainly will be carried out by city and county authorities, Department of Justice spokesman John Barnes said. "The attorney general's office will be communicating with relevant state agencies and local law enforcement regarding timing and enforcement," Barnes said. The health department, which oversees the state's medical marijuana program, is working on the details of how and when they will communicate to providers, patients and physicians about the implications of the Supreme Court decision, spokesman Jon Ebelt said. The state's medical marijuana industry boomed in 2009 after a U.S. Department of Justice memo suggested prosecuting marijuana cases would not be a priority. By 2011, the number of registered users had grown to more than 30,000 in a state of 1 million people, and the number of providers topped 4,800. The growth led to abuses and widespread recreational use, state officials said. Then, federal authorities raided large medical marijuana providers and growing facilities across the state, effectively shutting down the industry and prompting the 2011 restrictions by state lawmakers. A district judge blocked the restrictions while the advocacy group's lawsuit made its way through the court system, giving marijuana dispensaries a five-year period to operate. Over that time, the number of registered users and providers crept up again. Reid said the best chance to reverse the Supreme Court's decision is a proposed ballot initiative his organization is sponsoring that would loosen the restrictions. The initiative proposal is under legal review by state officials. "We are confident we can get it qualified and we will get the signatures to get it on the ballot," Reid said. "I think there are enough people angry by the Legislature's action in 2011 to get it passed." OPTIMUM FIRM SIZE A business unit may be launched in a small scale and then expanded gradually. With the increase in the scale of opera... Revenue declines, the pandemic, and rising competition create new realities in higher education. Bill Tinsley has served as pastor, church planter and missions leader in Texas,, Minnesota and Wisconsin. He has international experience in S America, Africa, Asia, Australia and Europe. He lives in Fort Collins, Colorado with his wife, Jackie where he coaches church planters. 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Yet faced immense difficulties have survived, kept alive their history and culture, passed keys of family homes in occupied Palestine from one generation to the next. An older world is still around OUR SPONSORS Our sponsors offer the best services available and make The View From Fez possible. Please visit them by clicking on images below "Anything else you're interested in is not going to happen if you can't breathe the air and drink the water. Don't sit this one out. Do something. You are by accident of fate alive at an absolutely critical moment in the history of our planet." http://www.rochesterenvironment.com/ WARNING for European visitors European Union laws require you to give European Union visitors information about cookies used on your blog. In many cases, these laws also require you to obtain consent. As a courtesy, we have added a notice on your blog to explain Google's use of certain Blogger and Google cookies, including use of Google Analytics and AdSense cookies. Some people think of this time as a major inconvenience. The protests, the petitions, the painful hashtags. I see the averted eyes when marches stream through neighborhoods filled with comfort and gentrification. I notice the glazed expressions when accounts of microaggressions and blatant racism are detailed. I recognize the lip service for humane treatment, fair opportunities and cultural awareness. But I have not seen any real action. There have been lots of posting, friending and sharing of outrage on social media. I am sure it helps some people feel better. But I don't feel better. This is not a passing phase for Black people. We are fighting for our lives. Lives that have never been valued in this country and still aren't. It appears that a lot of people are just waiting for all of this to magically go away. It is not going away, we are just getting started. So if you're waiting for things to go back to the way they were, you are in for major disappointments. We ExoMars-2016 boards its rocket An international team of engineers in Baikonur Cosmodrome, Kazakhstan, is finishing preparations for the historic launch of the ExoMars mission on March 14, 2016. Following their arrival to the launch site at the end of 2015, the Trace Gas Orbiter, TGO, and the Schiaparelli lander were tested, put together and will join their Proton rocket in the first week of March. Previous chapter: ExoMars' difficult road to Baikonur The ExoMars 2016 spacecraft - the Trace Gas Orbiter (in the background) and the Schiaparelli lander (in the center) - in a clean room inside Facility 92A-50 in Baikonur Cosmodrome on Dec. 25, 2015. Launch campaign By the end of January 2016, an army of around 65 people assembled in Baikonur to conduct final assembly and testing of the ExoMars-2016 mission before its launch. The team included engineers from the project's prime contractor at French and Italian divisions of Thales Alenia Space, as well as specialists responsible for mission's scientific instruments. Russian engineers were working on the integration of the spacecraft with the launch vehicle. The ExoMars-2016 launch campaign was expected to cost Russia 776.3 million rubles, including 239.9 rubles in 2015 and 536.4 rubles in 2016. The pre-launch processing was briefly interrupted for a Proton launch with the Eutelsat-9B communications satellite on Jan. 30, 2016. Because ExoMars would require a great deal of time and space at Facility 92A-50, no other Proton missions were planned within a month and a half leading to the opening of the window to Mars on March 14. The TGO processing included communications checks between all spacecraft components and its four instruments. The Russian-built FREND instrument had to be replaced with a backup model, due to problems discovered several months earlier. Prior to fueling of the TGO spacecraft with its toxic and highly corrosive propellant, the vehicle's fueling plumbing was filled with helium to ensure absence of leaks. Subsequent checks with a special mass spectrometer detected no helium escaping from any valves. The TGO's batteries were then charged, the final sheets of thermal insulation installed and, after final inspection, it was ready for integration with the lander. Preparing Schiaparelli Although the orbiter for the ExoMars-2016 mission was being prepared inside a processing hall of Facility 92A-50, which guaranteed clean-room environment at level ISO-8, it was not enough for Schiaparelli. Because the lander was designed to reach the surface of Mars, it had to be free of not just dust but even bacteria or microbes, which could have a chance to multiple on another planet. A special tent for super-sterile operations at clean-room level ISO-7 was set up inside the processing hall. A specialized microbiological laboratory from Turin, Italy, was also set up next to the facility to ensure that the lander was completely sterile. Once Schiaparelli was brought inside its "clean room within a clean room," its clamshell capsule was split into a front heat shield and a back shell. The lander could now be taken out for the installation of a special gas generator, which would be used for the opening of the parachute during the descent in the Martian atmosphere. The ship's explosive bolts, which would separate the heat shield during landing were also checked. The spacecraft also undergone electric and leak checks. Engineers also uploaded the final version of the software into Schiaparelli's computers and charged its batteries. The fueling of the lander was conducted between January 28 and January 31. During the first half of February, specialists from the Airbus Defense and Space team glued most of the thermal protective tiles on the back shell of Schiaparelli's heat shield. The lander was finally attached to the top of the spacecraft on February 12, and the next day, all the electrical connections between the two spacecraft were made, allowing to start functional checks, which continued until February 15. Between February 14 and 17, last three tiles were glued to Schiaparelli. Although most of the tiles had been placed and sealed a week earlier, a few places on the heat shield had remained 'open' since these were the sites of hooks for the equipment that is used to lift Schiaparelli into place on the TGO. With this task completed the hooks could be removed and the final tiles placed and sealed. (The bonding of the tiles requires some days to allow the bonding agent to cure before the final, finishing touches can be applied.) On February 21, the fueling of the TGO began with 2.5 tons of propellant. The propellants for the spacecraft were procured from Gerling Holz in Germany and had to be brought by ship to St Petersburg in Russia, and then by train to Baikonur. Preparing mission control While the TGO and Schiaparelli spacecraft were undergoing final checkout and assembly in Baikonur, the training at ESA's ground control center, ESOC, in Darmstadt, Germany, had also entered its final stage after many months of preparations. According to ESA, more than 20 simulation sessions had been completed at ESOC since November 2015, rehearsing various stages of the mission, focusing on launch, early orbits, the initial commissioning and cruise to Mars Boarding the rocket The final integration of the ExoMars-2016 with the launch vehicle began on February 29. The fully assembled and fueled TGO/Schiaparelli stack will be first placed on top of the Briz-M upper stage, which would act as a space tug during the launch, conducting four maneuvers to enter Mars-bound trajectory. On March 2, the payload section including the upper stage and the spacecraft was rotated into a horizontal position and specialists completed flight control and telemetry systems checks of the joint spacecraft, Roskosmos said. On the same day, the payload section was also enclosed between the two halves of the Proton's payload fairing. Until March 4, engineers will be conducting electric and pneumatic tests on the vehicle. The upper composite, including the spacecraft, the upper stage and the payload fairing were attached to the three-stage Proton rocket on March 5, 2016, inside the 92A-50 building. On March 9, the fully assembled launch vehicle and the spacecraft left the assembly building for the outdoor fueling station, where Briz-M tanks will be filled with hypergolic propellants and pressurized gases during the next two days. On March 11, the launch vehicle arrived at Pad 39 at Site 200 in Baikonur and was erected into a vertical position for the countdown and liftoff on March 14, 2016, at 09:31:42 GMT. Next day, the mission control in Darmstadt, Germany, along with ESA personnel in Baikonur conducted an eight-hour dress rehearsal for the ExoMars launch. According to ESA, controllers established a live data connection with TGO on top of the Proton rocket in Baikonur, and could receive telemetry and other status data from the spacecraft, which was also undergoing its own preflight software loading and countdown rehearsal. Representatives from Thales Alenia Space also participated in the exercise. On March 13, ESA engineers in Baikonur charged batteries onboard the TGO spacecraft on the launch pad and final checks on the Schiaparelli lander were also conducted successfully in preparations for launch. On the same day, around 21:15 GMT (5:15 p.m. EDT) ground controllers at the European Space Operations Center in Darmstadt, Germany, established a communications link with Baikonur and began monitoring operations with the ExoMars at the launch site via telemetry. The TGO spacecraft sitting on top of its Proton rocket was powered up for launch around 15 minutes later or just 12 hours before its scheduled liftoff. The batteries onboard TGO were fully charged 10 hours 48 minutes before launch. At T-10 hours 25 minutes before launch, the TGO was expected to be in its flight configuration and eight hours 40 minutes before launch engineers were scheduled to check computer memory onboard TGO in a process known as "memory dump." Next chapter: Anatomy of ExoMars launch ExoMars mission pre-launch processing chronology in 2016: January 5: The TGO orbiter attached to a composite structure of the launch vehicle adapter. January 7: The TGO orbiter moves into the fueling area inside Facility 92A-50 for initial leak tests. January 7, 20:00 GMT - January 27: The first (21-day) launch window to Mars opens. (Not used) January 28-31: The fueling of the Schiaparelli lander is conducted in Baikonur. February 12: A Proton rocket for the ExoMars-2016 mission arrives at Baikonur's Site 92A-50 for the pre-launch processing. February 12: The Schiaparelli lander is integrated with the Trace Gas Orbiter. February 17: Sealing of the Schiaparelli's heat shield is completed and the assembled spacecraft makes radio-contact with its mission control in Darmstadt, Germany. February 21: The TGO fueling begins in Baikonur. February 29: The TGO/Schiaparelli stack to be integrated with its Briz-M upper stage. March 2: A payload section is encapsulated under payload fairing. March 5: The ExoMars-2016 spacecraft composite to be integrated with its Proton launch vehicle. March 9: The Proton-M rocket with ExoMars-2016 spacecraft left Facility 92A-50 and rolled to the Briz-M fueling station in Baikonur. March 11: The Proton-M launch vehicle with ExoMars-2016 to roll out to launch pad at Site 200. March 12: ESA personnel conducts final rehearsals. March 13: Final checks on the Schiaparelli lander completed. UPCOMING EVENTS: March 14, 09:31:42 UTC: ExoMars-2016 liftoff. Read (and see) much more about the history of the Russian space program in a richly illustrated, large-format glossy edition: Page author: Anatoly Zak; Last update: May 12, 2016 Aggression bombards Saada districts with rockets, artillery SAADA, Feb. 28 (Saba) The Saudi aggression pounded on Sunday some districts of Saada province with tens of rockets and artillery shells, a security official said. The official explained to Saba that the Saudi Apache helicopters bombed al-Qama and al-Makhroq areas with more than 30 missiles, in addition to the artillery bombing on the two areas, which led to large destruction in citizens houses and property. He added that the aggression missiles and artillery shells targeted scattered areas in the districts of Sheda, Razeh and al-Malaheidh, as well as a series of air raids on citizens houses and farms and public roads. The official condemned the Saudi enemy barbarism and its continuation in its aggression and blockade on Yemen. BA Saba Facebook Facebook Twitter Twitter Whatsapp Whatsapp Telegram Telegram Email Email Print Print [29/February/2016] I give my consent to Sakshi Post to be in touch with me via email for the purpose of event marketing and corporate communications. Privacy Policy Here's what the new Docking State Office Building could look like Renderings released Wednesday to the Capital-Journal give the clearest picture yet of what the new Docking State Office Building might look like. Hello beauties, welcome to Asoebi fashion Friday!! We refuse to let you go into this weekend without looking glamorous and fabulous in your... Click On Our Advertisers Ads Most of our ads have links to take you directly to their Websites. Just click on an ad and away you go. If you have a problem with a stock brokerage firm, either as an investor or a financial professional, call Sallah Astarita & Cox, LLC Let's find out if our attorneys, who are former SEC Enforcement attorneys and broker-dealer counsel, can help you. SCOTUS taking on array of criminal justice cases this week in which Justice Scalia's absence will again be consequential | Main | Highlighting the enduring lack of transparency about pleas and the work of prosecutors ... and the problems this may create February 29, 2016 Iran reportedly wages the "war on drugs" by executing the "entire adult male population" of a village!?!?! There is much talk in the United States about causalities of all sorts from the tough ways in which US governments use criminal justice powers of all sorts to wage a "war on drugs." But this FoxNews article reports on Iran waging the war with a whole new type of extreme powers. The piece is headlined "Iran reportedly executes every adult man in one village for drug crimes," and here are the stunning details: The entire adult male population of a village in southern Iran was executed for drug offenses last week as part of a country-wide crackdown on trafficking, state media report. Irans vice-president for women and family affairs, Shahindokht Molaverdi, revealed the news in an interview with the Mehr News agency last week, but did not say when or where the executions took place, or how many people were killed. We have a village in Sistan and Baluchestan province where every single man has been executed, she said, according to The Guardian. Their children are potential drug traffickers as they would want to seek revenge and provide money for their families. There is no support for these people. Molaverdi said President Hassan Rouhanis government has brought back previously-axed family support programs. We believe that if we do not support these people, they will be prone to crime, thats why the society is responsible for the families of those executed, she said. Human rights groups denounced the executions. The apparent hanging of every man in one Iranian village demonstrates the astonishing scale of Irans execution spree, Maya Foa, from the anti-death penalty group Reprieve, told The Guardian. These executions often based on juvenile arrests, torture, and unfair or nonexistent trials show total contempt for the rule of law, and it is shameful that the UN and its funders are supporting the police forces responsible.... The Islamic Republic hanged 753 people in 2014, more than half of whom were convicted of drug-related offenses, the group said. In 2015, nearly 700 people were executed in Iran in the first half of the year alone, it added. The mass executions have led activists to call on the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime to stop funding the Iranian governments anti-narcotics campaign until Tehran ends the use of capital punishment for such offenses, The Guardian reports. Candidly, I have a hard time wrapping my head around the notion that the Iranian government, in order to try to stop drug trafficking in the name of helping "women and family affairs," would execute the entire adult male population of a village in southern Iran (and then, apparently, will provide government support for the families of those executed). But, absent further reports that this story is inaccurate, I have to conclude that Iran believes no punishment is off-the-table and unjustified when trying to combat the scourge that is drug use and abuse. February 29, 2016 at 01:35 PM | Permalink Comments Corroboration, please. Posted by: Gritsforbreakfast | Feb 29, 2016 1:45:30 PM These are the good old days that Trump pines for. Maybe he's right. Posted by: Daniel | Feb 29, 2016 1:48:11 PM It has the highest rate of drug use of any country so I can't say it's unbelievable, at least. Posted by: anonymous | Feb 29, 2016 1:49:23 PM Nonsense. There are neither drug dealers nor gay folks in Iran. Posted by: Harvard Grad and proud | Feb 29, 2016 2:38:21 PM This is not only barbaric, it is sexist. The Iranian authorities were executing these men because of their gender! Since when does being a male adult automatically make you a drug offender. Is Iran also implying that only males are capable of committing the drug offenses that the authorities claim these males allegedly did? Posted by: william r. delzell | Mar 1, 2016 9:27:54 AM But Iran doesn't incarcerate like we do, so they must be doing something right? Posted by: federalist | Mar 4, 2016 2:32:47 PM Post a comment Profiling a federal district judge eager to make the case for federal sentencing discretion | Main | No new cert grants from short-handed SCOTUS and a notable dissent in one prisoner case February 28, 2016 "With Marijuana Legal, Why Are People Still Doing Life For Weed?" Thie question in the title of this post is the headline of this article from The Kind (as well as a question that really does not have a satsfactory answer). Here are excerpts: At least 30 people are currently serving life without parole for non-violent marijuana-related offenses. Save extraordinary events, they will die in prison. Overturning a law does not exonerate the people who were convicted of breaking the law when it was in effect. This means that even if marijuana is legalized tomorrow, those serving time for marijuana-related offenses will not be released. Most people dont believe it, says Beth Curtis, founder of Life for Pot, an organization that spotlights people who are serving life without parole for non-violent marijuana-only offenses. One person who is scheduled to remain in jail until they die is Curtiss brother, John Knock. Twenty years ago I received a phone call informing me that my youngest brother had been indicted for a marijuana conspiracy in Florida, Curtis explains on her site. Our lives have never been the same.... In 2008 she launched LifeForPot.com, which currently features 30 or so inmates with life or de facto life sentences (e.g., someone who is 50 years old and gets 50 years). Most of Curtiss advocacy takes place offline, primarily through writing and sending information about individuals to congress, congressmen, and various groups that might take up the cause. Actually a lot of people have, she says. Now when you Google life for pot, lots of stuff comes up. When I first started, it was just my site.... Without retroactive legislation, inmates serving life without parole for weed can only be released through clemency, in the form of a pardon or sentence commutation from the president (on the federal level) or from the governor (on the state level). (Group pardons are rare, but not entirely unprecedented.) Out of the 95 sentence commutations granted by President Barrack Obama in December, two were serving life for marijuana-related crimes: Billy Dekel and Charles Cundiff. Beth Curtis says shes been advocating for both of them for years and plans to visit them once theyre out. Another inmate on Curtiss radar, Larry Duke, was freed last March under a compassionate release program for inmates over 65. While Curtis was elated by the three inmates release, she notes that Obama would need to seriously ramp up the number of commutations to make a meaningful dent in the population. These people need clemency to get any relief, she says. And for the old guys, its kind of important that it happens pretty soon. Their runway is a lot shorter. Not that the younger people shouldnt be released also, but dying in prison is a particularly horrendous thought. Obama said that through clemency there would be thousands released, Curtis adds. I hope that thats true. I hope and pray that thats true. Cross-posted at Marijuana Law, Policy and Reform February 28, 2016 at 11:55 PM | Permalink Comments Well, I visited three nonviolent marijuana offenders who received sentences of life without parole last week. They had all been released through clemency or compassionate release after serving over 25 years of their life sentences. I hope to visit many more. Their ages ranged from 64 to 70 - obviously we do not have to worry about our safety. Posted by: beth | Feb 29, 2016 4:48:02 PM The clemency and pardon area is one area where Obama needs to get off his arse and start freeing humans. Posted by: Liberty1st | Feb 29, 2016 9:38:04 PM Thanks Liberty 1st. Of course I agree. Posted by: beth | Mar 2, 2016 12:30:17 AM My heart goes out to these prisoners and their families. I cry every day for my brother Paul who walked away from the conspiracy 5-6 years before he was arrested; he was "lucky" and only got 15 years. Now it's year 8 and my parents are elderly and frail with dementia and Parkinson's. I pray and hope laws change or SOMETHING HAPPENS to bring him home; they need him, I need him. He more than learned his lesson; he was stupid to even be peripherally involved(storing pot in his house 3 times). He is kind, gentle and loving. Very sad. Thank you for helping the struggle Posted by: Lisa newman | Mar 22, 2016 9:41:26 AM I am 50 yrs old, an RN. My brother Paul is 55 and in Lewisburg Federal Camp. My parents are in very bad health, I REALLY need his help. I am exploring every avenue. Thank you Posted by: Lisa newman | Mar 22, 2016 9:43:48 AM Post a comment This well-established Blog is worth visiting on a regular basis for a wealth of information of interest to Armenian nationals and to the Armenian Diaspora world-wide. Although it has a particular role in promoting international recognition of the Genocide, the Blog encompasses much more and includes many articles of general appeal to all those concerned with Armenian affairs. Much of the content is difficult or impossible to find elsewhere and the long list of links provided gives easy access to a plethora of material on social, political, religious, educational and cultural matters, and many news items from around the world. A San Francisco man was one of the people arrested during a violent Ku Klux Klan rally in Anaheim Saturday, and according to all media reports, the local fellow is a Klansman, not one of the counter-protesters at the anti-immigration event. Bay City News reports that 51-year-old San Francisco man Charles Donner was arrested at Saturday's SoCal demonstration, which was "a planned anti-immigration rally" according to the Associated Press. The AP reports that when six Klansmen (including Donner) arrived at the pre-advertised site of the rally, a park about three miles from Disneyland, they were greeted by as many as 30 counter-protesters. The Klansmen reportedly "pulled up in a black SUV and took out signs reading 'White Lives Matter,'" while "dressed in black shirts decorated with the Klan cross and Confederate flag patches." According to the AP, the anti-Klan crowds swarmed the SUV, and the driver pulled away, leaving three KKK guys behind. Then all hell broke loose, as protesters smashed the SUV's windshield, and began to beat and kick the Klansmen. According to Brian Levin, who directs the Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at Cal State San Bernardino, the anti-Klan ralliers were "were so angry, they would have torn these folks limb from limb...I was afraid for their lives." Levin, who found himself protecting the Klansmen from the counter-protesters, took video of the event. It's pretty graphic, so think before playing. As the brawl progressed, a Klansman used the sharp end of a pole attached to an American flag to beat protesters back, stabbing three in the process. Donner and four more of his co-Klansmen were arrested at the rally for assault with a deadly weapon. All were released, the AP reports, when police determined that their actions had been in self-defense. Seven counter-protesters who "were seen beating, stomping and attacking the Klansmen with wooden posts" remain in custody. This blog is about the political struggle I am engaging in Singapore. The title "Singapore Alternatives" is chosen because my only political dream is to build a true alternative in Singapore. Alternative to PAP government, of course. As the Alternative, the political party must be able to have the visions and policy insights to lead Singapore. I will write on various policy views and personal beliefs that I think is crucial in building up the Alternative. All constructive comments are welcome. SIOUX CITY | Inge Auerbacher revels in the diversity of her neighborhood. Christians, Muslims and Hindus peacefully live together, sharing walls between row homes in the New York City borough of Queens. From the horrors of the Holocaust, she delivers a miraculous story of survival and hope to audiences around the world. This week, shell be in Sioux City for Tolerance Week, which begins Monday with a screening of the documentary Rosenwald. Tolerance Week was created in 2005 by Jerry and Kathy Weiner after they saw the documentary "Paper Clips," a film featuring middle-school children in Tennessee who collected 6 million paper clips to represent the 6 million Jews killed by the Nazis. Influenced by the documentary, Jerry Weiner arranged to have it shown at the Orpheum Theatre and then had Philip Gans, a survivor of the Auschwitz concentration camp, speak to the audience. Auerbacher, 81, will be speaking after the Sioux City Community Theatres youth production of I Never Saw Another Butterfly on Wednesday. She will also be at Western Iowa Tech Community College from 10:30 a.m. to noon Thursday for a discussion about the play with local actor Bill McKenny. Additional free performances of I Never Saw Another Butterfly are planned at the community theater, at 1401 Riverside Blvd., Thursday through Sunday. The one-act play is based on a book by the same name that contains a collection of art and poetry by the Jewish children who lived in Terezin. During World War II, about 15,000 Jewish children were sent to the concentration camp. Auerbacher was one of them, and shes among the one percent that survived. In 1942, she arrived clutching her beloved doll that she named after Marlene Dietrich, a German-born actress. She was 7 years old. Auerbacher and her family lived there for three long years. Death, fear and hunger were constant companions. Auerbacher cherishes a tattered picture of 3-year-old Ruth Nelly Abraham. The two were bunkmates in Terezin. They became fast friends, but little Ruth wouldnt live to see her 10th birthday. Her family was sent to Auschwitz. About 140,000 people were shipped to Terezin. Its estimated that 88,000 met their death in the gas chambers of Auschwitz and another 35,000 died of starvation and disease. They wanted us to die, she said. The ones who lived did so with little dignity as they dug through the garbage to find potato peelings or rotten turnips to eat. Its an unthinkable experience that Auerbacher only began talking about in 1981 after the first World Gathering of Holocaust Survivors in Jerusalem. Nobody in my high school knew anything about me, neither in college, she said. I kept it to myself. Nobody talked about it. We all wanted for this to be in the past. Truly, I wanted to become a real American. I just wanted to blend in. I tried to lose my accent. I just wanted to be a normal child again, a normal teenager. Auerbacher contracted tuberculosis in Terezin and couldnt go to school until she was 15. Yet, she went on to work as a chemist for over 38 years. She retired in 1997 and decided to spend the rest of her days making the world a better, safer, more tolerant place. I want to fight against injustice, she said. This is one way of showing, even in this dark place, there could be some light and some hope. You cant live without hope. For some of us at least, to be a Calvinist today also means that we will have to work at keeping alive the memories of older sayings and teachings in the hope that there will soon come a day when many others will want to learn such things again. Richard Mouw. Calvinism in the Las Vegas Airport. One of the leaders of the group Islamic State Abu Omar al-Shishani was captured by the US Special Forces as a result of operations in the... There are many fitness goals out there that we desire. Some of us want to be leaner and others wish to put on muscle mass. The thing is, for you to achieve your fitness goals, you need to Body of child aged four was found at a burnt-out block of flats earlier today She is said to have shouted 'Allahu Akbar' as she appeared close to station Eyewitnesses say they saw the woman holding the severed head of a child A burka-clad babysitter decapitated the little girl in her care before walking through Moscow carrying the child's severed head, police say. The woman shouted 'Allahu Akbar' as she appeared near Oktyabrskoye Pole metro station in the northwest of the Russian capital and threatened to blow herself up. It came hours after officers found the headless body of a child when they were called to a fire at a block of flats in the city. The gravity of the existential threat we face from Islamic Jihad is truly of epic proportions. It is essentially a battle pitting free-civilized man against a totalitarian barbarian. What is at stake is the struggle for our very soul - namely who we are and what we represent. The lives that were sacrificed for individual rights and freedoms that we've come to cherish are being chiseled away from right under our noses by the stealth jihadists. And many of us are in denial and totally clueless. The left's appeasement and pandering to evil is nothing new. What makes their utopian delusions so infuriating and unpardonable is that it is not only they who will have to pay the consequences, and deservedly, so, they are thwarting and undermining our best efforts at resistance and are thus dragging us down in the process as well. By Peter Lancz,, the head of the Raoul Wallenberg World Campaign Against Racism. ANNAPOLIS (Feb. 28, 2016)Despite fines that reach a maximum of $175 for those who use a mobile device while driving, Marylanders just can't seem to stay off their phones when behind the wheel. About 80 percent of Maryland drivers polled admitted to talking on the phone while driving within the preceding 30-day period, and 46 percent of those surveyed reported the same about texting, according to a 2014 study from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety. Two-thirds of surveyed drivers nationwide said they talked on their phone while driving during that same 30-day period. And 33 percent admitted they had texted over the previous 30 days while operating a motor vehicle, according to the AAA survey. John Townsend, a spokesman for AAA, emphasized that the number may be even higher than reported in the survey. "These are just the people who confessout of their own lips and mouths they confess their own transgressions," Townsend said. "It is pandemic nationwide, and it is pandemic in the state of Maryland." Delegate Frank Turner, D-Howard, said driving while using a handheld mobile devicefor which 40,479 citations were issued in fiscal year 2015, according to data from the state's District Courtis still all-too-common among Maryland drivers. So Turner decided to do something about it. Turner's bill, "Use of Handheld Telephone While Driving," introduced in the state House Environment and Transportation Committee on Feb. 11, would double the current maximum fine for distracted driving to $150 for first-time offenders, $250 for second-time offenders and $350 for third-time offenders and beyond. Under current law, the maximum fine is $75, $125 and $175, respectively. "I see (distracted driving) all the time and other people see it too," Turner said. "$75 doesn't seem to be enough to get people off their phones, but maybe $150 will." But there is at least one encouraging trend. Data from the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration also shows that deaths from distracted driving in Maryland have been on a steady decline since 2004. From 2004 to 2008, the annual average number of fatalities was 333, compared with 232 from 2009 to 2013, a 30 percent reduction. Injuries, too, have been decreasing, starting at an annual average of 4,134 in 2004-2008 before falling 43 percent to the 2009-2013 average of 2,348. The issue of distracting driving is all-too-familiar for Joel Feldman, the co-founder of End Distracted Driving, a national group that seeks to promote safe driving habits through advocacy and education. The 2009 death of his daughter, Casey Feldman, caused after a driver reached down for his GPS and subsequently slammed into Casey's car in New Jersey, led Feldman and Casey's mom, Dianne Anderson, to seek a solution. "After a couple of weeks I started wondering: Why did this happen, how could this happen?" Feldman said. "I started thinking, 'Oh my God, I used to text while driving.' It started a journey to figure out what texting and driving is all about and why people do it." Seven years later, Feldman's organization boasts nearly 500 trained speakers who have given presentations on the dangers of distracted driving in 43 states and multiple Canadian provinces. The group's speeches put special emphasis on parents, Feldman said. There is reason to believe that the lax attitude some parents have about using handheld devices while driving can influence their children, Feldman said, recalling a conversation he had with a mother of a 5-year-old girl. "She said her little girl won't drive in her Fisher Price Car unless her mommy gives her the cellphone," Feldman said. Looking at the younger generation, Feldman says he is excited about the prospect of reducing distracted driving in the future. "The millennials I see are more interested in social causes and changing their world," he said. "I think they can change this, because they care so much about each other and they care so much about the world. I am optimistic." Turner is not as positive about the effect his bill, which is awaiting a vote in a House subcommittee, could have on texting and driving among state motorists. "I don't think that this is going to totally solve the problem," Turner said. "I mean, people are still driving and they are still using their phones like we never passed the (first) bill." As driving while using a handheld mobile device remains a common practice, Townsend said, all state motorists should first took a hard look at themselves and their actions. "The distracted driver; that's the thing we fear the most," Townsend said. "And guess what? The thing we fear the most is us." HUGHESVILLE, Md. (Feb. 28, 2016)Maryland State Police uniform troopers and criminal investigators are on the scene of a potential homicide that was first reported as a traffic crash along Rt. 5 in Charles County.Details are minimal at this time, but the victim is an adult male. Troopers are working to make a positive identification and notify family. An identification is not expected to be released until tomorrow.Shortly before 3:00 p.m. today, troopers from the La Plata Barrack were dispatched to what was reported to be a traffic crash along the Hughesville Bypass, on northbound Rt. 5, near Old Leonardtown Road, in Hughesville, Md. Troopers found an overturned motorcycle and its operator who had been ejected. Evidence indicated the driver had run off the left side of the roadway.Emergency medical services personnel pronounced the victim dead at the scene. A forensic examiner responded and during an examination of the victim, found what appeared to be evidence in his clothing and trauma to his body indicative of a gunshot wound. The body will be transported to the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in Baltimore for an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death.Investigators from the Maryland State Police Homicide Unit are continuing the investigation, with assistance from the Criminal Enforcement Division, Forensic Sciences Division, La Plata Barrack troopers, and the Charles County Sheriff's Office. Scene processing is expected to continue through the evening.Portions of north and southbound Rt. 5 on the bypass in the area of Hughesville will be closed throughout the evening as investigators process the scene and search for evidence. State Highway Administration personnel will be assisting with lane closures and detours around the scene.No information about a potential suspect or suspects is known at this time. Anyone who may have witnessed this apparent shooting or was in the area of the Rt. 5 bypass around 3 p.m. today is urged to contact the Maryland State Police at the La Plata Barrack at 301-392-1200. PRINCE FREDERICK, Md. Disclaimer: In the U.S.A., all persons accused of a crime by the State are presumed to be innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. See: http://so.md/presumed-innocence. Additionally, all of the information provided above is solely from the perspective of the respective law enforcement agency and does not provide any direct input from the accused or persons otherwise mentioned. You can find additional information about the case by searching the Maryland Judiciary Case Search Database using the accused's name and date of birth. The database is online at http://so.md/mdcasesearch . Persons named who have been found innocent or not guilty of all charges in the respective case, and/or have had the case ordered expunged by the court can have their name, age, and city redacted by following the process defined at http://so.md/expungeme. (Feb. 29, 2016)The Prince Frederick Barrack of the Maryland State Police (MSP) today released the following incident and arrest reports.ACTIVE WARRANT, DUI & POSSESSION OF XANAX: On 2/24/2016 at 9:52 pm, Trooper First Class Barlow stopped a vehicle on Rousby Hall Rd. in Lusby for traffic violations. The driver, Ryan M. Cox, 32 of Lusby, had an active bench warrant and was placed under arrest. Cox was additionally charged with driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol. A K-9 scan was performed and drugs and paraphernalia were found in the vehicle. Cox was charged with CDS Possession and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. He was incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.DUI, POSSESSION OF TRAMADOL: On 2/25/2016 at 1:21 pm, Trooper Warrick stopped a vehicle on 5th St. near Chesapeake Lighthouse Dr. in North Beach for traffic violations. Stephanie A. Ward, 35 of North Beach was arrested for driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol. A K-9 scan gave a positive alert and provided probable cause of a search of the vehicle. Several types of pills were located. Ward was released to a sober driver and on 2/26/2016 was served a summons for the drug violations.THEFT OF BICYCLE: On 2/25/2016 at 4:58 pm, Trooper First Class Barlow responded to the 300 block of Geronimo Rd. in Lusby for a theft complaint. The victim reported an orange Mongoose Bicycle with little bit of blue coloring was stolen from the front yard. Investigation continues.POSSESSION WITH INTENT TO DISTRIBUTE: On 2/25/2016 at 9:16 pm, Trooper First Class Barlow responded to the Food Lion Parking Lot in Lusby to check the welfare of a vehicle occupied by two people. The subjects were found slumped over in a running vehicle. A K-9 scan was conducted with positive results. A search revealed Heroin, Alprazolam, Oxycodone and Marijuana in quantities for distribution. Louis E. Messineo, 21 of Lusby, and Toni L. Swider, 18 of Mechanicsville were arrested and incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.FALSE STATEMENT, OBSTRUCTING, NEGLECT OF MINOR, CHILD ABUSE: On 2/26/2016 at 3:04 pm, Trooper Jones responded to the 1900 block of Kingswood Dr. in Prince Frederick for a follow up interview in regards to a theft case. Upon arrival, Tpr. Jones found the suspect was not home. While speaking with a person at the residence, it was determined that a 3 year old child had been left at the residence alone for some time. Investigation revealed much of the information received during questioning was false. Melissa A. Quillen, 29 of Prince Frederick, was arrested for False Statement, Obstruction, Neglect and Child Abuse. She was incarcerated at the Calvert County Detention Center.Ryan M. Cox, 32, of Lusby, arrested on 02/24/2016 @ 09:54 pm by TFC S. BarlowStephanie A. Ward, 35, of North Beach, arrested on 02/25/2016 @ 01:50 pm by TPR. J. WarrickJennifer H. Fletcher, 40, of Owings, arrested on 02/27/2016 @ 06:40 pm by TFC S. LewisNathaniel A. Booth, 26, of Owings, arrested on 02/28/2016 @ 02:24 am by TPR. P. KaitzChristopher D. Gentry, 29, of Lusby, arrested on 02/28/2016 @ 03:04 am by TFC C. EsnesPreston N. Long, 23, of Huntingtown, arrested on 02/28/2016 @ 10:18 am by TPR. J. WarrickChristopher O. Smith, 43, of Huntingtown, arrested on 02/28/2016 @ 10:52 pm by TFC K. Rowe HOLLYWOOD, Md. (Feb. 25, 2016)The Commissioners of St. Mary's County held their fifth of seven planned meetings on moving county government to code home rule Tuesday night but few from the community attended.The meeting, at the Second District Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad in Valley Lee, had just a few speakers. One was in support of putting the measure on the ballot in November with the aim of giving the local government more autonomy over local public laws, while others asked more questions.Resident Kyle Davis said he was new to the discussion but had heard that commissioners were dissatisfied with something related to state government."What's the source of this dissatisfaction?" Davis asked.Leaders told him about last year's debacle of not even being able to get a committee vote on a personal property tax exemption in Annapolis and that fact that the state delegation would only be able to put in six local bills this year instead of the 18 bills the commissioners wanted.These were the reasons for more autonomy for county government, said Commissioner Tom Jarboe.But the tone of the meeting, said Commissioner Todd Morgan in a later interview, showed that the public was apparently showing little interest in changing county government, even if only slightly."The commissioners have worked very hard on this through town hall meetings and through the media but the public doesn't seem to be paying much attention," Morgan told The County Times.The proposal to move to code home rule, which would keep the commissioner form of government but give it more control over local laws instead of having to get state approval to change them, came from the commissioner board and not from a grassroots citizen movement.There was a move about eight years ago to see whether citizens wanted to move to charter government, a much greater change to local independence, but it was rejected by voters.Jarboe acknowledged that while some have showed support for allowing the local government to move faster, but not everyone agrees."Some people have said that they like the slow and deliberate process," Jarboe said at Tuesday's meeting.There was also some confusion about what the commissioners could do with the county's police and corrections element if voters chose to switch to code home rule.Commissioners were quick to say that they could not change the sheriff's office from being the primary law enforcement agency.Code home rule does allow the commissioners to establish a corrections department and a warden for the jail but, as Commissioner John O'Connor said, there was "no ambition" by anyone on the board to remove the detention center operations from the sheriff's office."There'd be no impact on local law enforcement," O'Connor said.Commissioner President James "Randy" Guy said that commissioners had yet to decide whether they would vote to put the measure on the ballot come November, but it depended on public input. Enjoy this quick round-up of recent health news to educate and inform your personal approach to health! Sheen's HIV admission prompts Google searches in big numbers (AP) -- A new study looks at the public health impact of actor Charlie Sheen's disclosure that he has the virus that causes AIDS. It found that Sheen's revelation Nov. 17 prompted the greatest number of HIV-related Google searches recorded in the United States since 2004. More than 1 million of them involved public health-related information, including searches for symptoms and testing. The researchers analyzed Google trends data along with news trends from 2004 until three weeks after Sheen's announcement. They found there were more than 6,500 HIV-related news stories on Google News alone on Nov. 17. That reversed a decade-long decline in news reporting about the virus. The study was published recently in JAMA Internal Medicine. Study finds anti-AIDS vaginal ring partially protects women (AP) -- In a new approach to HIV prevention, women modestly reduced their risk of infection by inserting a vaginal ring coated with an anti-AIDS drug once a month, according to two long-awaited studies from Africa. The ring proved safe although it cut HIV infections by less than a third overall, researchers reported Monday. But surprisingly, it worked far better in women 25 and older, leaving researchers wondering if the youngest women, who got little to no benefit, simply didn't use the device properly. Digestive center offers weight-loss balloon (Sun-Sentinel) -- A new non-surgical treatment for obesity is available at the Digestive Center of the Palm Beaches. The OBRERA Intragastric Balloon System was approved by the Food and Drug Administration in August 2015 for use by U.S. patients with body mass indexes ranging from 30 to 40. Digestive Center of the Palm Beaches will be one of the first facilities in the U.S. to offer the new tool, according to a news release. Its developer, Apollo Endosurgery Inc., says the device has been used by more than 220,000 people in over 80 countries. The balloon is swallowed and filled with saline while the patient is under mild sedation. With the balloon occupying space in the stomach, the patient doesn't have to eat as much to feel full. In FDA-monitored testing, 125 patients who used the device lost an average of 21.8 pounds over six months with the balloon and maintained an average loss of 19.4 pounds three months later, the FDA reported. Exercise has its limits for shedding pounds, study finds (Sun-Sentinel) -- That daily 5-mile run may not be burning as many calories as you think, a new study suggests. In fact, the researchers found, moderate exercise the equivalent of walking a couple miles a day may be the best way to burn extra calories. Beyond that, the body seems to adapt its metabolism so that calorie-burning plateaus, no matter how hard you work out. Compiled by Anthony Martinez Beven The findings, published online in the journal Current Biology, may sound counterintuitive or at least disappointing. "The predominant view is that the more active you are, the more calories you burn every day," said lead researcher Herman Pontzer, an associate professor of anthropology at City University of New York's Hunter College. ROME (AP) -- Italy's Senate voted Thursday to grant legal recognition to civil unions, as the last holdout in Western Europe took a compromise step to give some rights to gay couples after a bitter, years-long debate. Premier Matteo Renzi described the passage of the bill Thursday as ``historic.'' But gay and lesbian groups denounced the watered-down legislation as a betrayal because Renzi's Democratic Party sacrificed a provision to allow gay adoption in order to ensure passage. The legislation, which must still pass the lower Chamber of Deputies, is nevertheless significant for an overwhelmingly Roman Catholic country where the Vatican holds sway in politics and society, although Pope Francis remained conspicuously silent as debate raged in recent months. The bill passed 173-71, well over the threshold necessary. After being stalled in parliament for years, the legislation was spurred on after the European Court of Human Rights condemned Italy last year for discriminating against gays. Ruling in favor of three homosexual couples, the court found that Italy had failed to provide gays with even the most basic rights owed to couples in stable relationships, including inheritance rights, and recommended civil union recognition. The law grants same-sex couples many of the same rights as married couples: the possibility of having the same last name, inheritance rights, hospital visitation rights and decision-making rights about medical care. But it stops far short of authorizing gay marriage, which was passed last year in predominantly Catholic Ireland and was legalized as well across the United States. Last-minute changes removed references to the obligation of ``faithfulness'' in the relationship lest it be construed as equivalent to marriage, which the Catholic Church insists is a lifelong union between a man and woman. More painful for the LGBT community was Renzi's decision earlier in the week to scrap the provision allowing gays to adopt the biological children of their partners. It was sacrificed to ensure support within Renzi's own Democratic Party and other necessary supporters, and even then Renzi put the bill up to a confidence vote _ a common tactic in Italian politics to ensure that the majority closes ranks. ``We are outraged, angry, disappointed,'' said Marilena Grassadonia, president of Rainbow Families, the Italian association of homosexual parents. ``We can't believe that in 2016 ... in a country like Italy which is so proud to be part of this Europe, that it's possible to make a law on civil unions without considering children who should be protected as Italian citizens and discriminated minors,'' she told The Associated Press. Defenders of the bill insisted that the legislation preserved the right of Italian judges to grant adoptions to gay partners on a case-by-case basis, as has been the practice to date. ``Thanks to this text, the magistrates can still interpret the law on adoptions in the interest of the child to have a stable and continual relationship'' with the non-biological partner, said Anna Finocchiaro, the head of the Democrats in the Senate. Given the risk that the whole law on civil unions might have failed had the so-called stepchild adoption provision remained, ``this was a wise choice,'' she said. The center-right claimed a victory for having whittled down the original text. ``We prevented an anthropological revolution against nature,'' exulted Angelino Alfano, the interior minister and head of the New Center-Right party. Avvenire, the newspaper of the Italian bishops' conference, lamented in an editorial Thursday that Renzi had forced senators to choose between their consciences and the government in imposing the confidence vote. ``It would have been better to not so heavily condition the freedom of conscience of the senators who will vote (with a few announced exceptions) not because of their intimate conviction of the quality of the law but out of loyalty or not to a political judgment of Renzi's executive,'' Avvenire said. Revisions seem good, but also raise new issues. Font size: A - | A + CHANGES to depreciation and new rules introduced to protect construction firms belong among recently adopted revisions most cited by tax experts. Though the Finance Ministry praises them and points out the advantages, analysts warn of the impacts they will have on businesses, especially regarding red tape. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Though Slovakia used to have simple and clearly structured tax laws, this is not true anymore, said Wilfried Serles, tax advisor and partner at Grant Thornton Slovensko. According to him, as a result of the revisions to tax laws adopted in October 2014 and September 2015, entrepreneurs have to follow more than 28 changes when preparing their tax return. Unfortunately, Slovakia assumes the complexity of tax changes of Austria and Germany which is constantly criticised by top experts in these countries, Serles said, as quoted in the press release. Depreciation still questioned Tax experts agree that one of the changes which significantly impacts entrepreneurs are changes to depreciation adopted in late 2014 via an amendment to the income tax law. The revision increased the number of depreciation groups from four to six, shortened depreciation of production technologies from 12 to eight years and prolonged depreciation of non-productive real estate from 20 to 40 years. As depreciation reduced the tax base and thus the final tax paid, a longer period of depreciation means higher taxes paid. The revision also capped the price of motor vehicles that business entities purchase to 48,000 for business entities with a low tax base. Moreover, it introduced the possibility to choose between flat expenditures of 80 percent in case the asset is used also for private purposes or provable expenditures depending on the real usage of the asset for private purpose and doing business. The Finance Ministry expected the change to increase cash flow into state coffers, but tax experts are not very optimistic about it. The new rules have brought more administrative burdens to entrepreneurs, according to Branislav Kovac, tax partner at VGD Slovakia. He considers the changes to tax depreciation groups to be one of the most significant, particularly prolonged depreciation of non-productive real estate from 20 to 40 years. This change concerns assets such as administrative buildings, hotels and residential buildings and therefore it will have an impact on the financial planning for this kind of business in future tax periods, Kovac told The Slovak Spectator. Grant Thornton Slovensko analysts also question the cap for luxury cars, questioning its effect on small entrepreneurs with zero or only minimal profit. Silvia Hallova, senior manager of the tax advisory department in Deloitte, also points to limiting the expenses that can be included in the tax base. With respect to cancelling the advantaged depreciation of assets procured via financial leasing, the attractiveness of this way of financing has decreased, Hallova told The Slovak Spectator. Moreover, the lawmakers did not deal with several questions related to transfer of financial rent, she added. Builders protection problematic The amendment to the VAT law, valid as of January 1, 2016, introduced two main changes that concern the construction sector: the extension of reverse charge to construction works and the principle of paying VAT only after receiving payment of an invoice. The first change means that the entrepreneurs who order and pay for certain construction works can use the VAT deduction from a received invoice in their tax return. This in fact means that the state will return the VAT to them. The condition is that the entrepreneur pays at least 5,000 excluding VAT, the Hospodarske Noviny daily reported. In case of the local supply of construction works, including the supply of a building or a part of building and supply of goods linked to the installation or assemblage, the VAT is due from a VAT payer who is a receiver of these supplies from another Slovak VAT payer, Kovac said. However, in practice the Slovak VAT payers must consider each supplier individually, as this is applied only to the construction works which are defined by the Financial Administration, he added. Another measure, which came into force in the beginning of 2016, allows companies not to pay VAT from unpaid invoices. While originally the changes were to apply only to companies with an annual turnover of 75,000 and less, the final document increases the upper limit to 100,000. The main aim of this change was to protect smaller companies active in the construction sector which were harmed by big firms who did not pay their invoices. Though Kovac considers the idea good, he points to some problems. If the VAT payers decide to use this special regulation of VAT, it may have an impact also on the customers of a VAT payer which are applying a special method of VAT application. The reason is that the right for the deduction of the input VAT from the received invoices for goods and services arises for these customers on the same day as the tax liability for the supplier, i.e. only after paying to the supplier for goods or services, he explained. There is also an application problem in case the payment is done at the end of the month as the customer may deduct the input VAT only in the VAT period where he has information from the supplier (who applies the special regulation) of when he received the payment, Kovac added. Changes for the next government There are, however, also some good changes the government has adopted. The current cabinet focused on the fight against tax evasions which is an actual trend not only here, but also within the EU and OECD, Hallova said. In this respect she considers it important that the Financial Administration has a strong position achieved via education, practical experience or employing experts. She also praised the fact that the parliament passed the tax changes soon enough, so there was enough time to prepare for them. Grant Thornton praises also new rules for private use of company property, like passenger cars, new rules for companies investing into research and development, and also tax advantages accompanying dual education. The new government formed after the March 5 general election should focus on reducing administrative burdens in order to become more business friendly, Hallova and Kovac agree. Further, there is still place to synchronise the accounting rules with the tax rules as nowadays in some areas the treatment of the same thing is different from the accounting and tax point of view, Kovac added, citing the creation of provisions and allowances to receivables as examples. THE YEAR of 2016 has not brought any significant increase in real estate tax, or property tax, in Slovakia even though its rates traditionally change upwards one year after the municipal elections. Font size: A - | A + This time it has not happened while the reason for this may be the nearing general election, in which some mayors may run as MPs; or, perhaps, other tax revenues are developing well. Property tax rates increased for 2016 only by 1.42 percent on average, according to a survey by the Business Alliance of Slovakia (PAS), when this year tax rates increased the most in eastern Slovakia in Sobrance they soared by 81 percent, in Levoca 23 percent, and in Zlate Moravce 15 percent. Several economically strong regions markedly increased taxes, at least for business spaces. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Towns in the northern-Slovak region of Orava, Tvrdosin and Namestovo, where property taxes rose most last year, continued this trend also in 2016, the Hospodarske Noviny economic daily wrote. In Tvrdosin, an additional 13 percent were added to last years almost 19 percent; in Namestovo 4 percent to previous 7 percent from 2015. Despite this, their taxes belong among the lowest in the country: in Tvrdosin, locals and companies pay only one half of the nation-wide average, while in Namestovo it is three quarters. In 50 district capitals the rates did not change at all; and five such towns even cut these rates slightly. Bratislavas Old Town is still first in the level of property taxes, having almost double the country average. Surprisingly, it is followed by Senica where there is the highest tax of arable land; slightly lower taxes can be found in other boroughs of the capital, as well as in Kosice, Malacky, Piestany, or Banska Bystrica. Towns and cities which have recently built industrial parks or lie in economically strong regions were able to utilise the economic high tide to increase taxes, PAS executive director Peter Kremsky said, adding that this was logical, as new industry and services bring also higher requirements for transport, infrastructure or servicing activities which are often rendered by municipalities. A HEATED dispute flared over the land lying under, or close to, the future plant of the Jaguar Land Rover carmaker, which plans to start production close to the western Slovak city of Nitra. Font size: A - | A + Roman Cerulik, owner of 14 hectares of land on the future site of plant in Nitra, filed a criminal complaint with the Nitra police for slander against Viktor Stromcek, State Secretary of the Transport Ministry. Stromcek, who also serves as government proxy for strategic industrial parks, earlier this week described Cerulik as a speculator and blackmailer. This statement has seriously damaged his reputation and his business activities, Cerulik said. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement It clearly can be classified as a crime of slander, he said, as quoted by the TASR newswire. I demand the action to be investigated and prosecution to be launched. A few days ago, Cerulik filed a petition at the Regional Court in Nitra to investigate a decision made by the Nitra District Court that made it possible to drop the environmental impact process prior to the construction of the Jaguar Land Rover plant. Subsequently, Stromcek accused Cerulik of only being concerned with his own private gain and called him a speculator attempting to blackmail the state. The land owner claims that he filed the suit as a person who lives near the area and also owns land included in the strategic park, as well as some adjacent plots of land. I had to file the petition, as the law on construction proceedings had been ignored in an arrogant manner, he said. The environment protection authority, Slovak Investment and Trade Development Agency (SARIO) and a state agency of the Economy Ministry for the Jaguar Land Rover investment have distorted data that provides the basis for ascertaining whether its necessary to examine the environmental impact of this investment or not. [Cerulik] is the owner of certain pieces of land adjacent to the park, state secretary said, adding that Cerulik conditioned his cooperation with us by ensuring we purchase his plots for an excessive price. We wont be blackmailed, however. We didnt agree with this, although he threatened us to cause us problems. This gentleman wants to sell 14 hectares of land for 220 per square metre, while we dont even need his land for this purpose, Prime Minister Robert Fico said, according to TASR. Why should we buy something that we dont even need? The land in dispute allegedly should not directly serve the Jaguar Land Rover plant but the construction of accommodation buildings adjacent to the factory. It isnt true that this land is only a field. Its possible to build 2,000 flats there, Cerulik said. If the prime minister claims that the state doesnt need the land, he should be so kind to ensure that my plots are removed from the strategic park, and then the state wont have the right of first refusal. On February 26, Cerulik called on the government to give him access to the land again, as the state has claimed that it does not actually need the plots. At a press conference in Bratislava, he said that the state in the summer of last year designated land covering around 730 hectares near the town of Nitra for the investment and restricted owners from using it. At the same time, the state acquired the right of first refusal on the plots. Cerulik learnt in the meantime that his land was supposed to serve for the construction of accommodation buildings adjacent to the plant. He subsequently turned to the state-run company MH Invest, which represents the state in constructing the strategic park, demanding that his plots be exempt from the strategic park, as they are designated for housing. The state refused, so Cerulik offered the plots to the state for 220 per square metre, but the state does not want to pay such a price. Cerulik as complainant is convinced that the only legal and possible procedure is the obligation to assess the projects environmental impact as the law stipulates even before the launch of the car plants construction. THE NON-BANKING institution Provident Financial, one of the most important lending companies in Slovakia, has announced it will no longer lend money there. Font size: A - | A + The company stated that it was discouraged from further operation in Slovakia by laws for protecting debtors, passed by the ruling Smer party last year, as quoted by the Sme daily, The International Personal Financial company, which owns Provident Financial, announced that the new rules will cause losses amounting to GBP 18.6 million (23.6 million) and that if it does not quit, the losses would rise even higher. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Provident is dissolving its network of some 800 agents through whom it has provided loans and collected instalments directly at clients homes. It added, however, that all loan contracts continue to be effective; the firms decision not to continue on the Slovak market will change the status of current loans. The company focused on low-income clients without property who might have posed a risk for other lending firms. The British company was successful in pressuring repayment thanks to its system which had agents in regions to collect the debts, agents who often knew the debtors personally or were their acquaintances. Provident Financial announced on its website it already suspended offering loans on December 18, while it will continue to service the already existing ones. The new law concerning consumer loans stipulates, among other things, a license process for creditors, requiring non-banking institutions to come under the central banks (NBS) supervision and get a license. However, Provident Financial managed to obtain such a license, the SITA newswire wrote. SLOVAK Prime Minister Robert Fico selects media with whom he communicates, consistently ignoring all others. Most voters do not agree with this decision, a recent poll by the Focus agency shows. Font size: A - | A + Almost two-thirds of those polled consider Ficos attitude incorrect, according to the survey, while 25 percent of respondents hold an opposite opinion. Ficos attitude is most frequently opposed by young people aged between 25 and 34 and by people with creative occupations. Even 37 percent of Smers sympathisers do not consider his attitude right: of those who had previously voted for Smer, 73 percent are critical about his attitude towards the media. Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Skryt Remove ad Article continues after video advertisement Sociologist Martin Slosiarik of the Focus polling agency said, as quoted by the Sme daily, that ignoring some media may be another barrier for these voters to return to Smer, as they consider this attitude inappropriate for a prime minister. Most of those polled who do not agree with Ficos attitude are voters who do not want a prime minister to determine which media are trustworthy and which are not; they want to choose themselves. The group of shunned media was recently joined even by public-service RTVS and the portal aktuality.sk, whom Fico criticised for anti-government commentaries. Fico first showed his attitude towards the media and journalists during the election nigh in 2006 when his party, Smer, did not allow them to enter party headquarters. During the first term (in coalition with HZDS and SNS), attacks on journalists stepped up, when Fico reacted irritated to rightful questions concerning his governments scandals. Beginning with his second term, Fico calmed down his rhetoric slightly and withdrew suits against the media. However, after some time he again stopped answering their questions and put several media on the blacklist, forbidding all his ministers to communicate with them. Ivan Godarsky of the MEMO 98 think tank says that Ficos treatment of the media is unacceptable in a modern democratic society, adding that a politician should be able to bear a more intense interest by the media, while a premier should not play favourites and refuse to answer critical questions. Privacy statement: This blog does not share personal information with third parties nor do we store any information about your visit to this blog other than to analyze and optimize your content and reading experience through the use of cookies. You can turn off the use of cookies at anytime by changing your specific browser settings. We are not responsible for republished content from this blog on other blogs or websites without our permission. This privacy policy is subject to change without notice and was last updated on January 1, 2017. If you have any questions feel free to contact Springfield Vermont News directly here: ed44vt@gmail.com In San Francisco, it sometimes seems as if one could blindly hurl a rock and hit the storefront of a specialty coffee shop. And yet, in the ever-expanding world of tech, where companies offer nearly everything to their employees, specialty coffee has found a new place to stretch. Major players like Twitter and Facebook may pride themselves on the steaming cups of exemplary joe made available to their employees at any time of day. But for those companies that havent invested in providing in-office caffeine, a new, relatively sparsely occupied niche has opened: the mobile coffee cart. Simply put, the mobile cart, adorned with an upscale espresso machine and all of the necessary coffee-making accoutrements, wheels the experience (and the drinks) of specialty coffee right to your doorstep. And taking the lead is Hedge Coffee. Married couple Alex and Olga Sobalimmigrants from Belarus and Russia, respectivelystarted Hedge Coffee in December 2015 (just two scant months ago) to fill the catering-sized hole in the San Francisco coffee market. The goal, as Olga says, is to provide great coffee anywhere. The Sobals found that, though there were some mobile carts serving the needs of San Franciscans, none of them seemed to focus enough on quality. Alex Sobal, the quality-control expert at Oaklands Mr. Espresso, saw a business opportunity. We position ourselves, Olga says, as the first specialty coffee catering company. We always tell people, Dont expect skim sugar-free vanilla lattesits not what we do. Purchasing a Barista Capsule from Capsule Mfg., the couple used their respective skillsAlex comes from an architect background, while Olga has a masters in journalismto build not only an attractive coffee cart, but one equipped to dole out consistently fantastic beverages using beans sourced and roasted through Mr. Espresso. And the result is something to behold. I visited the couples Hedge Coffee pop-up at the Ampersand flower shop and event space in the Mission. (Though corporate coffee service is their intended moneymaker, the duo is still working to get the word out.) Alex Sobal, thick blond dreads hanging to his mid-back, stood behind their gorgeous reinvention of the coffee cart. Sporting a glossy off-white veneer with the simple, elegant Hedge logo in black lettering, the beautiful cart features a remake of the vintage Faema E61 espresso machine and a Mazzer grinder on its flank. Upon close examination it seemed that everything had been tweaked down to the smallest detailmatte-black milk pitchers matched matte-black bags of coffee and the matte-black FETCO brewer tucked away behind the Faema, all of them offset by the carts clean surfaces and the splash of bright red espresso cups lining the top of the E61. The Hedge logotwo asymmetrical columns of white, embossed letters on a black backgroundwas designed by Alex. We have saved so much money doing all the creative work ourselves, he says, adding, Creative thinking in general helps to solve problemscreatively. Everything theyve done is informed by the mobile-coffee-cart experience they envisioned. A specialty coffee cart is not just defined by its appearance, of coursethe coffee it serves is paramount. And Hedge Coffee does not slump in that regard. In the vein of Mr. Espresso, the coffee turned out from this beautiful cart is dark and rich, whether with milk and/or sugar, or nothing at all. Somehow, the coffee feels classic, a refined throwback to an espresso that existed before terms like Third or Fourth Wave coffee came along. Which fits what the Sobals are doing, as their coffee cart, tucked among the sprawl of flowers when I visited, is a reinvented nod to the simplicity of the past. And though coffee carts are frequently just segues to brick-and-mortar shops, Alex and Olga dont plan on heading down that path. Weve never really thought about [having a cafe], Olga says. We were thinking about renting a small place for tastings, but we want to be more flexible with our timeand having a physical location requires all of your time. And, well, we arent ready for that yet. In the meantime, the couple looks to spread the word of what theyre doing while also hoping to grow beyond the single unit, adding more carts and becoming what Alex Sobal refers to as a mobile coffee company. For now, the pair are doing what they can to fill this gap in San Franciscos otherwise crowded coffee market. And theyre doing it with a style and charm all their own. Noah Sanders (@sandersnoah) is a Sprudge.com staff writer based in San Francisco, and a contributor to SF Weekly, Side One Track One, and The Bold Italic. Read more Noah Sanders on Sprudge. However, Gu also apportions a fair share of the blame to Britain, which was culpable for its "strategic prejudice," and despite early efforts to engage with Germany diplomatically, gradually fell under the influence of the "German threat theory." The theory was propagated in earnest by thinkers like British diplomat Eyre Crowe, who sent a 23-page memorandum to British Foreign Secretary Earl Grey on New Years Day, 1907, warning of the threat posed by the expansion of Germany since its unification. "England must expect that Germany will surely seek to diminish the power of any rivals, to enhance her own by extending her dominion, to hinder the co-operation of other States, and ultimately to break up and supplant the British Empire," Crow warned Grey. In The National Interest, Goldstein remarks on the attention Gu pays to the analogy, and "the interesting revelation from a citation in Gus article that the Crowe Memorandum has been translated into Mandarin by Guangxi Normal University and was published two years ago." "Whether or not we accept Gus interpretations of history and his not-so-subtle critiques of current diplomacy on both sides of the Pacific, we can all at least agree that it is profoundly positive that scholars at Chinas most prestigious universities are poring over this history in painstaking detail to gain insights into how and why great powers can unwittingly blunder into catastrophic wars," Goldstein wrote. "At a minimum, this tendency should inspire new interest in China's proposed 'new-type great power relations' a concept unwisely rejected some time ago by the Washington foreign policy establishment." MOSCOW (Sputnik)The Moscow-based designer and manufacturer, Russian Helicopters, hopes to negotiate deliveries of its products to and technology exchanges with Japan, its press service said Monday. "Helicopters with a coaxial rotor system are ideal for Japans terrain and its insular location. Aircraft developed by the Kamov Design Bureau Ka-3211BC and Ka-226T have successfully proven themselves in similar climates across South-East Asia," the companys press office told RIA Novosti. Kamov helicopters boast coaxial rotors, which are mounted on one shaft but rotate in opposite directions, providing better maneuverability and control. TOKYO (Sputnik)Japanese companies remain interested in the current investment projects in Russia, and are eager to make new investments, Russian Industry and Trade Minister Denis Manturov said Monday. "The combined value of investments made by Japanese companies in Russia amounts to $12 billion and the numbers speak for themselves. Japanese businesses remain interested in these already completed projects and, according to a Japan Business Federation poll, most companies are interested in developing new projects. Meanwhile, we will create the most comfortable conditions from that," Manturov said at a press conference. Manturov is attending the "Trade and Industrial Dialogue Russia Japan" business forum taking place in Tokyo on Monday and Tuesday. Representatives of Japan's economic, trade and industry ministries, as well as banking business leaders and representatives of regions in Russia and Russian companies are attending the event. "In the next month between 50,000-70,000 will come and then I believe [the flows] will stop there," he said. In a sign of the desperation of the situation, Mouzalas said it was likely the Greek armed forces would be deployed to help alleviate the crisis. "Wherever the army is needed it will play a role, just as it does in all western democracies. "Now we use it to build [camps and centers] and to distribute nutrition; tomorrow we don't know, we may deploy trucks and use it in several other services." Western Balkans situation is critical: possibility of humanitarian crisis is very real& near. Working on contingency #RefugeeCrisis #JHA DimitrisAvramopoulos (@Avramopoulos) February 25, 2016 With Greece still in the midst severe economic crisis, the government in Athens has requested emergency aid from the EU, asking for tents, blankets, vehicles, ambulances and other supplies to help manage the latest developments. Splits Widening The decision by Austria and Balkan states to place restrictions on people passing through their respective countries has led to a public spat within Europe, with Athens and other countries heavily critical of the measures, saying it would isolate Greece from the rest of Europe, and in turn, transform it into a "graveyard of souls." We all have responsibility to step up efforts to apply agreed European solutions. No time for uncoordinated actions. #RefugeeCrisis #JHA DimitrisAvramopoulos (@Avramopoulos) February 25, 2016 Greece was further angered when Austria excluded it from a meeting of Balkan countries convened to come to a common resolution over the migration issue. In an interview with Czech television, Jiri Otta from the Kapslovna shooting range said that "they face a real invasion of people who are eager to be trained," according to Radio Prague. "Of course, I do not want to pose as a political forecaster but it seems that this increased interest in weapons was caused by people's fear over refugees," Otta said. He pointed specifically to the fact that professional examinations for firearm licenses are administered to people between 21 and 85 years of age. The license they obtain is related to the so-called B group of firearms, which are normally sought out by those who intend to use their guns for sporting purposes. In reality, however, the situation has nothing to do with sports, according to Otta. "This certificate allows a person to buy absolutely any weapon from a small revolver to a hefty rifle. People prefer to obtain similar documents for self-defense, which is a normal practice nowadays. Listening to all those people prompts me to believe that I must buy a firearm too," he said. In October 2015, the Czech Defense Ministry said that they were deploying about 650 servicemen to the country's border with Austria to provide assistance to police officers in the event of an unprecedented influx of undocumented immigrants. Balibar, who currently teaches philosophy and political theory at Paris West University Nanterre La Defense, the University of California, Irvine and Kingston University in London says the reaction to the current European refugee crisis has set in motion the collapse of the EU. "The fact is already there. And the consequences will be disastrous. Not just for the 'European project', or for the European Union as an institution, but for the people who compose it, and each of us as individuals and as citizens," he wrote in an opinion column in Liberation. He said that from the moment German Chancellor Angela Merkel took the "unilateral decision" to drop the Dublin rules requiring all migrants to be processed at the point of entry into the Schengen borderless zone setting in train a huge mass movement of people from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan and other war zones into Europe. France has failed to step up to the mark. MOSCOW (Sputnik) PACE resolution in April 2014 deprived the Russian delegation of its voting rights, after Crimea became a part of Russia. Russian lawmakers were barred from participating in PACE's three key bodies its bureau, presidential committee and standing committee. Alexei Pushkov, the head of the foreign affairs committee of the lower house of the Russian parliament, told RIA Novosti in an interview that "our return to the sessions is [currently] out of the question." The 2014 resolution curbing Russias rights in PACE was prolonged in April 2015, while the reconfirmation of the delegation's credentials was scheduled to take place at the winter session. The Russian delegation said it would not be submitting its credentials on time for the opening of the winter session. According to Danish newspaper Berlingske , the US is pushing the line that the Russian threat is real and must be confronted via military means, essentially starting a new Cold War. However, some nations remain skeptical of Washingtons rhetoric. This diplomatic effort comes ahead of the upcoming NATO summit scheduled to take place in Warsaw in July, as Washington seeks to persuade European member states to increase their financial contribution to the alliances needs. "I think that the Danish government knows what I, as an American ambassador, think about the Danish defense budget," US ambassador to Copenhagen Rufus Gifford told Berlingske. "For a very long time we have known that European countries have cut their defense spending. But now is the time to reinvest. It will be a very important subject at the July summit in Warsaw." Last September, the EU countries decided to relocate some 120,000 migrants with a 6,000-euro reward to beneficiary state for each relocated person. The quota plan that obliges Budapest to take in almost 2,300 migrants in two years was agreed by majority vote despite opposition from Hungary and some other mainly Eastern European states. Budapest has filed a law suit against the mandatory resettlement quotas at the Court of Justice of the European Union. It was "a clear declaration that Hungary does not consider the concept as an enforceable idea," the countrys Foreign Ministry said. In December, the legal battle between the bloc and Hungary continued, with Brussels launching a legal case against Hungarys stringent asylum law. On February 24, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban called for a referendum on whether to accept mandatory EU quotas for relocating migrants, which may be held this fall, according to the head of Department of Communication and International Relations at the National Elections Office, Listar Daniel. In case its results are in breach of EU law, Brussels has the right to sue Budapest at the European Court of Justice, the court's press officer Balazs Lehoczki told Sputnik earlier in February. German Chancellor Angela Merkel still stands by her decision to reject any limit on the number of asylum seekers allowed into Germany, despite rifts within her own government. "There are many conflicting interests in Europe but it is my damn duty to do everything I can so that Europe finds a collective way," she told state broadcaster ARD. Merkel's remarks have been countered by an invitation by Austria's defense minister, for Germany to take refugees directly from Greece. "The German chancellor said that formally there is no upper limit in Germany. Then, I would invite her to take the people, who arrive in Greece now and whom she wants to take care of, directly to Germany," Hans Peter Doskozil told Austrian Oe1 radio. Germany's Foreign Minister says the EU must stay together to solve the migrant crisis and stop blaming each other. Frank-Walter Steinmeier told Greek daily Ta Nea: "We must fight for Europe. We must stop blaming each other. On the contrary, we must unite forces and work together for a European solution to the refugee crisis. "This is the only way for Europe to emerge stronger from the crisis," Steinmeier said. Steinmeier has reiterated calls by German Chancellor Angela Merkel that Europe must adopt a common approach to solving the refugee crisis while countries continue to squabble. "Neither side can benefit when inside the EU one blames the other. In this way we are not moving ahead by even one step in managing the refugee crisis. "The rifts that are being formed now must be laboriously healed again", Steinmeier said. Yet riot scenes from refugee camps across Europe and the political rhetoric from Greece and Austria suggest the rifts are widening not healing. The court ruled that "the Safe Harbor Decision denies the national supervisory authorities their powers where a person calls into question whether the decision is compatible with the protection of the privacy and of the fundamental rights and freedoms of individuals." #PrivacyShield: They put ten layers of lipstick on a pig but I doubt the Court&DPAs suddenly want to cuddle with it pic.twitter.com/gfkMexCruh Max Schrems (@maxschrems) February 29, 2016 The new proposed replacement known as Privacy Shield has been agreed after months of negotiation between the US and the EU and promises that: "for the first time, the US government has given the EU written assurance from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence that any access of public authorities for national security purposes will be subject to clear limitations, safeguards and oversight mechanisms, preventing generalized access to personal data [] through an Ombudsperson mechanism within the Department of State, who will be independent from national security services." "Ombudsman" incidentally, will be official of US government. How does that qualify as "independent" scrutiny? #PrivacyShield Sophie in 't Veld (@SophieintVeld) February 29, 2016 Duff Deal? However, in a swift reaction to the publication of the protocol, Schrems said: "The new deal does not even address the matter of private sector data misuse, despite the fact that there would have been much more leeway than in the government sector. There are tiny improvements, but the core rules on private data usage are miles away for EU law. This is nowhere close to 'essential equivalence' that the Court required." Citing Annex 6 of the agreement, in a letter from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence Office of General Counsel (US), Schrems highlighted the fact that the new agreement allowed for the fact that: "intelligence collected in bulk can only be used for six specific purposes: detecting and countering certain activities of foreign powers; counterterrorism; counter-proliferation; cybersecurity; detecting and countering threats to US or allied armed forces; and combating transnational criminal threats, including sanctions evasion. "Basically the US openly confirms that it violates EU fundamental rights in at least six cases. The Commission claims that there is no 'mass surveillance' anymore. It used to be the other way around. This charade is not only bluntly in conflict with the law and the Court judgement but also with the documents the Commission presented," Schrems said Monday. Anna Fielder, chair of Privacy International said: "It's still a half-baked agreement. The [proposed] ombudsman is based in the US equivalent of the Foreign Office. We don't know what kind of independence it will have. The [European Court of Justice in its October ruling] demanded an independent authority and this is scarcely independent. How do I know that my data has been abused?" When the footage was aired on television, the mosques representative Oussama El-Saadi told media that the imam was merely retelling the audience passages from Quran. He also added that his mosque adheres to all regulations and abides by Denmarks laws. It should be noted that in 2014 Abu Bilal was fined 75,000 Danish kroner (over 10,000 euros) for urging the audience to kill Jews during his visit to a mosque in Berlin. The Grimhj mosque also previously attracted considerable media attention last year when Oussama El Saadi publically declared his sympathies towards Daesh (a terrorist group also known as ISIL, ISIS and the Islamic State). Furthermore, it became known that a large number of young men connected to the mosque travelled to Syria and Iraq to join Daesh, Berlingske points out. However, despite numerous calls to shut down the notorious place of worship, the mosque continues to operate as usual. MOSCOW (Sputnik) The massive crisis caused by the refugee influx and granting the United Kingdom a special status within the European Union show how weak the bloc is, Milorad Dodik, the president of Republika Srpska, one of the two administrative entities in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH), told Sputnik Serbia. "The BiH application for EU membership has been accepted, but Europe is not what it was 10 years ago Is the concept of a United Europe, where 500 million people live, so weak that it could be undermined by 1.5 million refugees?" Dodik said. According to the official, Londons willingness to leave the bloc was indicative of the current state of the European Union. "I will remain silent to the decision the court has given. But I don't need to accept it, I want to make that clear. I don't obey or respect the decision," Erdogan told reporters in Istanbul before leaving on an official visit to West Africa. "This has nothing to do with press freedom. This is a case of spying," he said. In November 2015, Can Dundar and Erdem Gul were arrested as a result of accusations made by Turkish President Erdogan and the head of the National Intelligence Organization (MIT) after they brought to light MIT's arms deliveries to Syria. Several weeks after their arrest, Dundar and Gul petitioned the Constitutional Court, arguing claiming their pre-trial detention was unconstitutional. Despite their release, the two journalists will face life sentences at their trial scheduled to start on March 25 as well as a ban from leaving the country. MOSCOW (Sputnik)Ankaras self-propelled guns are present at the scene, with shells and other munitions being delivered to Turkeys position, Russia's REN TV channel reported Sunday citing its crew. At least six tanks are present at the border, the channel reported. According to the channel, the barrels of the tanks and self-propelled guns are pointed in the direction of the mainly Kurdish city of Kobane in Syria. In recent weeks, Turkey has been shelling towns in northern Syria. Ankara has claimed the Syrian Kurds have links to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which is fighting for Kurdish independence from Turkey and is considered a terrorist organization by Ankara. Syria has been mired in civil war since 2011, with government forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar Assad fighting against numerous opposition factions and extremist groups, such as Daesh, which is banned in a range of countries, including Russia. The Syrian government has confirmed its readiness to halt its military actions in accordance with the Russia-US agreement. Some opposition forces have been skeptical about the ceasefire, but in general have agreed to adhere to it. The UN Security Council will monitor the Syrian ceasefire and draw conclusions on violations of the truce, including those carried out by Turkey, a member of the Syrian opposition said. In recent weeks Turkey has been shelling towns in northern Syria. Ankara has claimed the Syrian Kurds have links to the Kurdistan Workers Party (PKK), which is fighting for Kurdish independence from Turkey and is considered a terrorist organization by Ankara. "The UN Security Council has groups which monitor the ceasefire regime. They will report [to the council] and corresponding conclusions will be drawn," Qadri Jamil, one of the leaders of the Syrian Popular Front for Change and Liberation, said. On February 22, Russia and the United States reached an agreement on the ceasefire in Syria. The ceasefire took effect at midnight on February 27, Damascus time. It does not apply to terrorist groups operating in the country. The UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2268 endorsing the Russia-US agreement shortly before the ceasefire came into force. "Turkey violates the latest UN Security Council resolution by bombing the Syrian territory and helping militants cross over from Turkey to Syria. The Turkish thereby oppose the UN Security Council. The international community must think how to stop this and make Turkey respect the UN Security Councils decisions," Jamil stressed. Turkish Presdient Recep Tayyip Erdogan has criticized the ceasefire deal, arguing Syria's Kurdish Democratic Union (PYD) and the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) should be excluded from the ceasefire process in the same way that the Islamic State is. Ankara considers the PYD and YPG to be terrorist organizations. MOSCOW (Sputnik) Svetlana Alexandrova The time has come for political reforms to be discussed between the Syrian government and the opposition, after a ceasefire came into force in Syria, a member of the Syrian opposition delegation formed after meetings in Moscow and Cairo told Sputnik. "The conditions for profound political reforms, which are to be discussed in Geneva, have been finally created. Humanitarian issues are being settled, a ceasefire has been established, and I hope, will be maintained without serious incidents I think, the time has come for discussions between the government and opposition on, in particular, political reforms, Jamil said. He added that the talks on reforms should cover the potential creation of a new government with adequate powers, a new constitution and elections in accordance with the UN Security Councils 2-year plan. MOSCOW (Sputnik)Regional states are behind the violations of the ceasefire in Syria as they are trying to derail the agreement on cessation of hostilities, a member of the Syrian opposition delegation formed after meetings in Moscow and Cairo said Monday. "The violations we have seen were carried out by regional states. Many regional countries dont like the ceasefire agreement. They dont want it to be implemented," Qadri Jamil, one of the leaders of the Syrian Popular Front for Change and Liberation, told a press conference in Moscow. On February 22, Russia and the United States reached an agreement on the ceasefire in Syria. The ceasefire took effect at midnight on February 27, Damascus time. It does not apply to terrorist groups operating in the country. The UN Security Council unanimously adopted Resolution 2268 endorsing the Russia-US agreement shortly before the ceasefire came into force. The ceasefire regime in Syria, which came into force last Saturday has been respected in general by the government forces and armed opposition groups, only seven violations have been registered, the commander of the Russian center on reconciliation in Syria said Monday. "The ceasefire regime between government troops and opposition forces in Syria is being respected in general," Lt. Gen. Sergei Kuralenko told reporters at the Hmeimim airbase near Latakia. Kuralenko said the Russian center carried out round-the-clock monitoring of cessation of hostilities in the Hama, Homs, Latakia, Damascus, Aleppo and Daraa provinces. "Officers at the Russian center on Syrian reconciliation registered only seven ceasefire violations in the past 24 hours," Kuralenko stressed. Russia and the United States reached an agreement on the ceasefire in Syria on February 22. The truce excluded the terrorist groups Islamic State and the Nusra Front, both of which are outlawed in Russia. The Syrian government has confirmed its readiness to halt its military actions in accordance with the Russia-US agreement. Some opposition forces have been skeptical about the ceasefire, but in general have agreed to adhere to it. The ceasefire took effect at midnight on Saturday Damascus time. On Sunday, the Russian Defense Ministry said that Russia's ceasefire monitoring center at the Hmeimim airbase in Syria's Latakia had received from the United States the list of 69 opposition groups pledging to stick to the ceasefire regime in the country. The ministry added the US-run monitoring center in the Jordanian capital of Amman had been informed about all facts of ceasefire violation in Syria. "North Korea has conducted four nuclear tests, pushed boundaries with its missile tests, is pursuing second strike capabilities, and shows no indication of slowing down," Stangarone, the senior director for Congressional Affairs and Trade at the Washington-based Korea Economic Institute of America, writes, in an article for The National Interest. In response, the analyst recalls, Seoul has suspended South Korean firms' operations at the Kaesong Industrial Complex, a joint industrial project located in the North Korean border city of Kaesong. The closure of the complex, Stangarone notes, is part a series of measures by South Korea "to create leverage internationally to convince Pyongyang to abandon its nuclear ambitions." Some in Seoul and Washington, however, "are suggesting that South Korea should consider developing its own nuclear umbrella as leverage in talks with North Korea." LATAKIA (Sputnik) The deployment of reinforcements, including armed vehicles, by Turkey on the Syrian border could lead to the derailment of a fragile truce in war-torn Syria, the commander of the Russian center on reconciliation in Syria said Monday. A footage by a Russian television channel circulated on Sunday showed deployment of additional armored vehicles and strengthening of firing positions by the Turkish military near the town of Tell Abyad. "We consider these actions as provocative acts that could derail the ceasefire regime and the entire reconciliation process in Syria," Lt. Gen. Sergei Kuralenko told reporters at the Hmeimim airbase near Latakia. UNITED NATIONS (Sputnik) Germany should use its position as chair of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) to help ease the latest crisis in Ukraine that is blocking full implementation of the Minsk agreements, Russias Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN) Vitaly Churkin told the UN Security Council. "The [Ukraine governments] agenda was imposed by radicals," Churkin said of the current government in Kiev, which took over following the 2014 ouster of President Viktor Yanukovych. "We suggest that one of the primary tasks for the German chairmanship of the OSCE should be full implementation of the [Minsk] package." Continued skirmishes in southeastern Ukraine belies peace agreements signed in Minsk in September 2014 and again in February 2015, which call for an end to all fighting, removal of heavy weapons from the line of separation as well as constitutional reforms. . If you do not agree with the blocking, please use the Access to the chat has been blocked for violating the rules . You will be able to participate again through:. If you do not agree with the blocking, please use the feedback form The discussion is closed. You can participate in the discussion within 24 hours after the publication of the article. "Yes, if some crime is committed against Russians or Russian-speaking Ukrainians [in Ukraine], sentiments will swing sharply toward the negative. But if we were to suddenly find ourselves as situational allies in some situation, the opposite would occur in Russians' perceptions of Ukraine and Ukrainians," the sociologist added. In the long historical view, Kara-Murza says, the recent rift between Russia and Ukraine is not so catastrophic. "What has happened over the last two years does not yet indicate a fundamental shift," a point of no return. "It's true, mass public sentiment in Ukraine is currently anti-Russian. This is similar to what happens when small conflicts take place between neighboring ethnic groups. They result in sharp outbreaks of hatred for other peoples, and this translates into bloody conflicts. Something similar can happen in large nations. Social scientists call this neo-tribalism a phenomenon which occurs when large nations face such irrational attitudes in relation to their closes neighbors." "But as anthropologists say, this type of conflict quickly burns itself out. I think that something similar is occurring between Russians and Ukrainians. In the future, relations between our nations, even if they are not very good, will gradually improve realities will force this to happen. It's obvious that no one is going to accept Ukraine into Europe," the sociologist notes. Asked how long Russia might have to wait for Ukraine to come around, Kara-Murza suggested that Russians should simply recall their own recent history. "I think that their illusions will soon be lifted. All this is reminiscent of the mood in Russian society in the early 1990s. We believed that we would be entering our new 'common European home', that we would be given help, etc. The urban population was very idealistically-minded. But by 1994, this mood was exhausted. The same polls by VTsIOM, if one looks into the archives, confirm this, and I think the same thing will happen in Ukraine." MOSCOW (Sputnik) Compliance with the US Federal Bureau of Investigation's (FBI) request to unlock the iPhone of one of the perpetrators of the lethal shooting in San Bernardino, California, would affect security of all Apple's phones, the company's Senior Vice President and General Counsel Bruce Sewell said in a congressional testimony to be read on Tuesday. On December 2, an Islamic couple US-born Syed Rizwan Farook and his Pakistani wife Tashfeen Malik attacked the Inland Regional Center in San Bernardino, killing 14 people and injuring more than two dozen. On February 16, a California judge ordered Apple to help the FBI break into the Farook's phone despite Apple's resistance. "They are asking for a backdoor into the iPhone specifically to build a software tool that can break the encryption system which protects personal information on every iPhone. As we have told them and as we have told the American public building that software tool would not affect just one iPhone. It would weaken the security for all of them," the testimony, obtained by The Washington Post, reads. ASTANA (Sputnik)On Friday, a man living outside of the town of Belfair in Mason County, Washington, called the police and reported that he had shot two children, a woman and another person. The man shot himself hours after police had arrived. Preliminary information alleged that the two teenagers may have been adopted in Russia. Later reports claimed the teenagers may have been born in Kazakhstan. "It is confirmed that the victims of the tragedy, 16 and 18 years old, were adopted in Kazakhstan by US citizens, but were registered with the embassy of our country. In this regard, the specific circumstances of their adoption need to be clarified," the statement said. Since, according to the Kazakh law, the older boy had reached the age of majority, he had to have chosen between the US and Kazakh citizenship. However, no data on his choice was immediately available, the commissioners office said. And Donald Trump, Chomsky said, is not even the worst of it. "When you speak about the Republican Party, [it's actually about] the Republican establishment being off the spectrum, not Trump. [Trump himself] is an interesting phenomenon, but a different one. Take somebody like Mitch McConnell, who's considered a Republican moderate. What was his reaction to Obama's election? It was very clear: he said 'we have to have one policy: No!' 'Anything that the government proposes, we say no and we block it, because we want to take power.' That's not parliamentary politics." "And in fact this is recognized by some of the most respected conservative analysts Norman Ornstein and Thomas Mann of the American Enterprise Institute a right-wing think tank. They describe not Trump, but the mainstream. They [speak about] today's Republican Party as, in their words, 'a radical insurgency', which has abandoned parliamentary politics." "And I think the reason is pretty clear," Chomsky noted. "In the United States, and in Europe in fact everywhere where neoliberal programs have been imposed, there's an undermining of democracy that's one of their aspectsIt's almost automatic, and you can see it happening. One consequence of that is the mainstream center begins to collapse, and you get uprisings at (what are called) both extremes one is a far right extreme, the other is called left, but is actually center left social democratic like Sanders or Jeremy Corbyn nothing particularly radical about it." By exposing addicts to a virtual world complete with temptations and familiar drug taking scenarios, scientists hope users will be able to learn how to cope with cravings to prepare them for life without drugs in the real world. "In traditional therapy we role-play with the patient but the context is all wrong.. We need to put patients in realistic virtual reality environments and make them feel they are there with the drug, and the temptations, to get a clearer picture and improve interventions," said Patrick Bordnick, the study leader. It's expected that millions of virtual reality devices will be sold in 2016. According to the World Economic Forum, 30 million devices will be sold by 2020. One of the first virtual reality headsets, developed for the consumer market is expected to be released in March 2016. The Rift has been developed by Oculus VR for the mass market. The headsets have been evaluated by an expert in virtual reality therapy (VRT), which is the practice of immersing patients in virtual worlds to treat mental health problems, similar to the study in Texas simulating a "heroin cave" for drug addicts. Dr Albert Rizzo from the University of California's Institute for Creative Technologies told The Verge that VRT headsets are "a game changer for the work we do." "Oculus will revolutionize virtual reality for clinical purposes. This system is going to be about so much more than playing games," Rizzo said. Patrick Bordnick, who is leading the study at the University of Texas says: "We want to know if decreasing craving in a lab modifies heroin use in the real world." Bordnick is drawing from previous virtual reality studies on cigarette addiction where participants displayed higher levels of confidence to resist temptation in the real world after developing coping skills in a virtual one first. WASHINGTON (Sputnik) The United States took aim at the anti-Israel bias in the United Nations in a campaign to renew its membership in the UN Human Rights Council (HRC), the US Department of State stated in a press release on Monday. The United States believes that its leadership was an important element of the [Security] Councils improved focus on urgent human rights crises, promotion of universal human rights such as freedom of expression, and decreased fixation on Israel, the statement said. In nine years since the UN Human Rights Council was established, it has condemned Israel over actions in Palestinian territories more times than for every other nation combined, according to a 2015 report by UN Watch. The report said the UN Human Rights Council had condemned Israel 61 times compared with 55 times for rights violations of all other nations. The watchdog organization said it had documented how, since the start of the conflict last March, that all sides are guilty of "serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law, including possible war crimes. These human rights violations, the release added, contributed to 3,000 civilian deaths, including 700 children, and the displacement of over 2 million people. Wood also said that ceasing the flow of arms to the parties involved in the conflict in Yemen would also need to be met with the establishment of an international inquiry that could launch "credible, independent investigations into the serious violations of international humanitarian and human rights law by all parties." Amnesty urged any arms authorization to Yemen to include a "strict, legally binding guarantee that the end use will be in line with international humanitarian and human rights law," and guarantees that any of those arms transfers would not be used in the country. Since 2014 Yemen has been engulfed in a military conflict between the government headed by Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi and Houthi rebels. In March, 2015, a Saudi-led coalition of Arab states began airstrikes against Houthi positions in Yemen at the request of President Abd Rabbuh Mansur Hadi. The pact between some 200 countries aims to cut greenhouse emissions and curb the climbing global temperatures, the main reason behind the melting Arctic ice cap and the rising sea levels. Japan regards scientific approach to the Arctic and the use of advanced technologies as priorities of its Arctic policy, Kazuko Shiraishi said. Japan outlined its Arctic strategy in October 2015. The document set out seven key issues that need to be addressed in order to make Japan an important player in the region. "I can answer that the priority is science and technology. We want to fully use that," Shiraishi underscored. The seven pillars of the island nations strategy for the Arctic are global environment issues, indigenous peoples of the Arctic, science and technology, ensuring rule of law and international cooperation, the Arctic Sea Route, natural resources development, and national security. MOSCOW (Sputnik)Information exchange on Syria between Russia and the United States is underway, including online, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov said Monday. "We are in contact with the Americans on different issues The work has been launched and continues without interruptions so far," Ryabkov told RIA Novosti, adding that "operational information exchange is carried out online." Russia and the United States reached an agreement on the ceasefire in Syria on February 22. The truce excluded the terrorist groups Islamic State and the Nusra Front, both of which are outlawed in Russia. At least 63 percent of Russians are unwilling to see the abrogation of sanctions Moscow slapped on Turkey after Ankara downed the Russian jet last year, according to the latest poll conducted by the Russian Public Opinion Research Center (VTsIOM). The poll also revealed that 78 percent of respondents believe that Russian authorities should not agree to any compromise before Ankara officially extends an apology for the downing of the Russian aircraft. When asked about which of the two countries suffered more from the ongoing chill in ties, about 54 percent of Russians said that they see Turkey as the greatest loser. The impressive winning streak of trotting sensation Bold Eagle came to end on Sunday in the long-distance Prix de Paris at Hippodrome Paris-Vincennes. As expected, Timoko (Bjorn Goop) was sent to the front of the 2-1/2 mile event, with Bold Eagle (Franck Nivard) content to stalk from the outside behind Lionel (Orjan Kihlstrom) first over. Bird Parker (Jean Philippe Monclin) made an early move to wrestle command from Timoko, with Goop content to sit the pocket. The field continued in little movement for the majority of the race until the final turn, when Nivard made his three-wide move for the lead with Bold Eagle. He was able to clear Lionel and then front Bird Parker, but Kihlstrom had yet to ask Lionel for his best stride. In the stretch, Bold Eagle found himself facing Lionel's challenge and couldn't hold him off. Lionel managed to hit the wire just less than a length ahead of Bold Eagle with Tagada Tagada (Mathieu Abrivard) closing well for third. France's Fabrice Souloy trains Lionel (Look de Star - Aurora Sign) for owner Gran Antonsen. His pedigree contains some bloodlines familiar to Canadian harness racing fans as his dam is sired by Smokn Lantern (Pine Chip - Armbro Lantern - Dream Of Glory). Bold Eagle was aiming to be the first five-year-old and fourth horse ever to win the three big trotting events during the Winter meet in France -- the Prix d'Amerique, the Prix de France and the Prix de Paris. The win would have garnered Bold Eagle a $210,000 winner's share of the purse plus a $325,000 bonus. This will reportedly be Bold Eagle's final race before Summer 2016 as he'll report for stallion duty. The photos that come out of Switzerland every February when horses show up for winter racing at the resort town of St. Moritz are always something to be seen, and this years images from White Turf are no different. As a photo gallery by CNN explains, the lake of St. Moritz has hosted the winter racing every year since 1907. Participants from around the globe flock to the meetings, which feature winter-style trotting, flat racing, hurdling and skijoring. Luigi Sala, the vice president of White Turf, has told Tom Sweetman of CNN that it is the uniqueness of the meet that makes it so popular. There is no other such event anywhere worldwide, he said, adding that its an international event that has to be seen at least once in a lifetime. The meet in the Engadine Valley in the Swiss Alps is traditionally featured over three Sundays. This years meet was scheduled to get underway on February 7, but that Sunday had to be cancelled due to a lack of snow. There was enough of the white stuff for the following two Sundays, which went forward to the delight of the roughly 35,000 fans that took in the festivities. Its not just the on-track action that keeps fans coming back its also the live music, art exhibitions and gourmet catering that accompanies the annual event. Its all made accessible to families, as well as for the high society who spend their winter holidays in our region a one-of-a-kind melting pot, Sala was quoted as saying. The VIP tent is able to satisfy even the most demanding of guests. A five-star hotel on a frozen lake. With four different types of racing, and also day and night dashes, the product is always fresh. Total prize money for the boutique meet is 500,000 Swiss francs, which currently equals roughly $680,000 Canadian dollars. When it comes to Swiss racing, White Turf surpasses all other jackpots. The final Sunday of the meet features an event titled the Gubelin, which features a purse of 111,111 Swiss francs. To view CNNs 16-image gallery, click here. (With files from CNN Photos courtesy Matthias Hangst, Bongarts Bongarts, Lars Baron, AFP, Getty Images) Multiple sub-1:55-producing trotting stallion Hard Rock N Roll 2,1:59.4; 3,1:57.4h; 1:54.3 ($411,393) has returned to the state of Michigan for the 2016 breeding season for a fee of $1,500. From six small crops of racing age, Hard Rock N Roll is already the sire of 33 in 2:00 from just 97 starters with earnings of almost $4 million, including: Rockys First 4,1:53.4 ($275,987), Splitsville 1:53.1 ($181,387), A Lister 1:55.1f ($291,864) and Cadillac Cruiser 1:53.4f ($203,786), etc. For several seasons, Hard Rock N Roll was one of the leading trotting sires in the state of Michigan. A consistent speed sire, he returns to the Wolverine State after standing in Ontario and Ohio with a dozen $100,000 earners to his credit. By Donerail from the Balanced Image mare Jailhouse Rock, Hard Rock N Roll is a full brother to Jailhouse Jesse, sire of three-time Dan Patch champion trotting mare Buck I St Pat 1:51 ($2,320,637). For booking information and a breeding contract, please contact Libby Myers at Snow Ridge Farm in Clark Lake, Michigan. Phone 517-206-7610 or email [email protected] for more information. (Snow Ridge Farm) Secretary of State Hillary Clinton at the end of a one-day trip to Tripoli, Libya, on Oct. 18, 2011, after the fall of Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi. Media reports referred to it as a victory lap. "The means of defence agst. foreign danger, have been always the instruments of tyranny at home." James Madison There is no doubt that if she were to become the first female president, Hillary wouldl, because of HER character, feel the need to prove herself with war. I don't believe that it is necessary for a woman to prove herself to be an equal to men by waging war, but I do believe that with Hillary's history, she would find a way to get the US into a war that costs the deaths of thousands of American members of the military, costing the US trillions of dollars. Volgen @ AlisonSpalding2 And GWB also got tons of GREAT assistance from Hillary who never saw a war she didn't vote for-- and promote. I believe that Bernie Sanders will do everything he can to stand up to and refuse to be influenced by neocons, neoliberals and military leaders who advocate for violence and war. I believe he will think about ways the costs of war can be invested in diplomacy, in infrastructure and education. Hillary won't. She'll make a statement, prove herself and betray the people of America because the bankers will loan money for the wars, munitions companies like Boeing, Halliburton, the latest reincarnation of Blackwater, Lockheed Martin and other big companies will have their hooks into her. "As a veteran of two Middle East deployments, I know first hand the cost of war," said Ms. Gabbard, one of the first female combat veterans to serve in Congress. "I know how important it is that our commander-in-chief has the sound judgment required to know when to use America's military power and when not to use that power. "As a vice chair of the D.N.C., I am required to stay neutral in democratic primaries, but I cannot remain neutral any longer," she added. "The stakes are just too high. That's why today I'm endorsing Senator Bernie Sanders to be our next president and commander in chief of the United States." "We need a commander in chief who has foresight, who exercises good judgment, and who understands the need for a robust foreign policy which defends the safety and security of the American people, and who will not waste precious lives and money on interventionist wars of regime change," "We can elect a president who will lead us into more interventionist wars of regime change, or we can elect a president who will usher in a new era of peace and prosperity." @ mkernohan I read this placard as "Bernie Sanders wants to send Hillary to war". Syntax matters, people. Representative Tulsi Gabbard stated: Maybe she'll encourage Israel to start something that she'll bring the US into to continue, forever, with Iran, Syria, Yemen, Turkey (after it's thrown out of NATO.) Who knows, as a chronic, pathological liar she's very creative. She could come up with a whole new collection of places to make war-- Venezuela (they have oil) Somalia, maybe one of the BRICs, since they're getting a bit uppity. Not to worry about this Hillary problem. She'll never get there. Her negatives are so high and the people are so angry, the winner of the general election will be someone who stands up to the establishment. It could be Trump, It could be Bernie Sanders, but Hillary will never get to be the war President it would be her nature to become. If it is her against Trump, she will lose and the opportunity to take back the senate along with the loss of the White House, Supreme Court nominees, and the hopes for the middle class in America. Er is iets heel griezeligs aan de gang in Nederland. Dat wij geleidelijk aan in een totalitaire 'democratie' wegzinken wordt steeds ... My quest for world domination, surrounded by chaos. The problem with North Korean officials fleeing to China has gotten worse in an embarrassingly obvious way. In January 2016 rumors began to surface in northeast China of a small team (it turned out to be three people) of North Korean secret police trying to discreetly find and bring back three senior North Korean officials who had fled to China. Actually, one of the three was working in China when he disappeared. Apparently the North Korean government wanted to keep this incident quiet but the three men the agents sought were known to some of the Koreans and Chinese questioned and that was eventually made the investigation too interesting to keep quiet about. It was also noticed that the three agents seemed increasingly desperate as time went by with no results. That was probably because North Korea, in fear of secret policemen defecting to China, only sends those who have something to lose (like wife, parents, children) back in North Korea. Moreover these agents are often told that failure is not an option. This has led to some agents fabricating evidence to satisfy their bosses back home. If that led to innocents being punished, so what. Getting away with that sort of things is what secret police do. China cooperates with all this as it has done for decades. In mid-2015 China allowed North Korea to expand the use of North Korea secret police in China as long as these agents spoke fluent Chinese and wore Chinese police uniforms and tried to act Chinese. By the end of 2015 there were believed to be over a hundred of these agents in China looking for North Korean illegally in China. When such people are found Chinese police must be called in to make the arrests and then send the escapees back to North Korea for punishment. The North Korean agents are also expected to report anything of interest (to local police or intelligence) to China and to behave themselves. In return these North Korean agents are allowed to go anywhere in China, which allows the agents to pursue North Koreans travelling south to get to an South Korean embassy in Southeast Asia when enables the one to ask for asylum and be moved to South Korea. Apparently the three defecting North Korean officials have still not been found. The three were probably involved in some corrupt deal that was in danger of being found out. For senior officials the punishment for this sort of thing is death. Another possibility is that China is only cooperating here in the hopes of being contacted by the defectors with an offer of much insider information in return for protection. If such a deal were made it would be done so quietly. Another response to the disappearance of senior officials are new rules requiring senior officials (about 200 people) to report their locations on an hourly basis and submit reports on daily activities. The secret police monitor this data for suspicious behavior and act accordingly. Suspicious activities include corruption, defecting, working for foreigners or plotting to overthrow the government. Not reporting on these activities by other officials is also an offense. In addition all government officials must now have approval from the secret police before speaking with any foreigner. Violating this rule will be punished with loss of employment or worse (imprisonment or execution). Over the last few years loyalty has become an obsession with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. But his secret police report that disloyalty continues to increase at all levels. The government has ordered more loyalty lectures for all North Koreans but secret police informants note that these additional mandatory lectures make people angry and decrease loyalty to the government. The recent atomic bomb and long range missile tests were meant to increase pride in North Korea and loyalty to the government. That did not happen and most North Koreans are more concerned about getting more food and fuel (for warmth, transportation and electrical power). What most North Koreans really want the government cant deliver. And the threat of new economic sanctions means less food and fuel. China Changes Sides A major worry for North Korea recently China agreeing increase economic and diplomatic pressure on North Korea. This includes no more sales of aviation fuel. Other petroleum products will be sold. China stopped gifts of oil back in 2013. China is also reducing some North Korean imports, like coal. North Korea also gets half its food imports from China. There is also the threat of interfering with smugglers getting forbidden goods into North Korea. This includes large quantities of luxury goods to keep senior officials loyal and the Kim clan comfortable. North Korea will now be looking for illegal aviation fuel as well. While Russian smugglers can supply whatever China blocks, it costs more and takes longer to route smuggled goods through Russia. In part this is because Russia is also under a growing list of sanctions. Then again this makes Russia more willing to tolerate smuggling into North Korea. China is also cracking down on North Korean use of Chinese banks. China has long tolerated North Korea using Chinese banks to avoid a growing list of international sanctions. In northeast China, where a lot of this illegal banking takes place, North Korean bank accounts are being emptied. Some of the cash is being switched to accounts owned by locals who have no obvious connection to North Korea. But a lot of the cash is staying cash and despite the risk of theft or getting caught by the Chinese police, North Korea is preparing to use cash transactions despite China now enforcing banking sanctions. The fact that China is openly agreeing to actually enforce more sanctions has long been a worst-case scenario for North Korea. China long refused to back the strict UN sanctions on North Korea believing it could persuade North Korea to behave and fix its economy and foreign relations. The United States has been increasingly public in its criticism of the Chinese approach. Since 2015 China has, with little fanfare, been agreeing with the Americans. This included more public criticism, via state controlled media, of the North Korean leadership. China quietly cracked down on some of the illegal trade with North Korea resulting in overall trade declining 15 percent in 2015. That did not seem to have any impact on North Korean behavior. Then in late 2015 China announced that if North Korea continued work on its nuclear and ballistic weapons programs North Korea could no longer depend on support from China if North Korea got involved in a war. To emphasize that point China quietly increased cargo checks and border security on the North Korean border with an emphasis on stopping the North Korean smuggling of weapons and technology that is normally tolerated. North Korea may be able to ignore Chinese criticism but they cannot ignore the special kinds of economic pain China can inflict. So far in 2016 North Korea has responded with another nuclear test and another long range ballistic missile test. There are limits to what can be done. China could cut off all trade, which would cause a major economic crisis in North Korea and China would have to clean up the mess if there were a political collapse in North Korea. Chinese trade is essential for North Korea. While that trade only amounts to about five billion dollars a year, it is over 80 percent of North Korean foreign trade. North Korea apparently fears that the only option the Chinese have left is to take over North Korea via a coup or outright invasion. Both options are expensive, embarrassing and risky. China and North Korea are both socialist police states and they go way back as allies. It would be embarrassing to the Chinese government to take over its socialist brother and that will be avoided until the North Korean nukes become a more immediate threat to China. The Chinese also advise Americans, and Westerners in general, to take into account that with China now unfriendly, North Korea has no useful foreign allies. There are countries like Iran and Cuba but there are not very useful. North Korea is still obsessed with the United States and China long believed that when the North Korean leadership got desperate enough they would be willing to do a real (enforceable) nuclear disarmament deal with America. Unfortunately China now seems to side with the U.S. and is seeking a unilateral solution. South Korean Suspicions As a side effect of the North Korean mess the United States has changed its attitude towards South Korean missiles defense, now saying there is no need to hurry the deployment of THAAD to South Korea. Because of the latest North Korean nuclear and ballistic missile tests South Korea sped up its efforts to obtain and put into service the American THAAD anti-missile system. China, Russia and North Korea have long opposed THAAD. South Korea wants THAAD for protection from North Korean missile attack and always resisted Chinese objections, even when China hinted that failure to drop THAAD might result in less trade with China. That was a signal to South Korean voters to carefully consider the cost of defying China. The Chinese will not come right out and say it but they object mainly because THAAD would also make South Korea less vulnerable to intimidation by Chinese ballistic missiles. South Korean voters understand that so the economic threats are having less impact that China expected. South Korean public opinion polls show voters are even more enthusiastic about the high tech and very expensive (over $100 million per launcher and associated equipment) THAAD system now that North Korea has launched another ballistic missile. Chinese leaders, as South Korea has long feared, made a deal with the Americans to back sanctions in return for delay or cancellation of the THAAD sale to South Korea. The Americans have denied this and China has openly said it still objects to THAAD but agrees that South Korea has the right to do what it considers best to defend itself against North Korea. South Koreans wont feel better about this until THAAD arrives and is operational. That will still take a few years, without any new delays. Much to the relief of China and disappointment in Russia American military commanders in the Pacific have gone on record that the United States considers North Korea, not China, the biggest military threat in the region. Russia comes second overall but China is second in the Pacific. China considers the United States a more immediate threat than North Korea which, no matter what it does, is still a miniscule military threat to China. Other nations bordering the South China Sea are more concerned about the Chinese threat and look to the United States for help. February 24, 2016: China and the United States agreed on new sanctions against North Korea. This agreement was the result of meetings and negotiations that began shortly after the January 6th North Korean nuclear test. In the past China has made a show of reluctantly going along with more sanctions on North Korea but this time China is making it clear that it is behind the latest round of sanctions and responsible for suggesting some of them. The message to North Korea is that China will not look the other way on any of these new sanctions, or most of the existing ones either. February 17, 2016: Off the west coast a South Korean patrol boat fired warning shots at a North Korean patrol boat that had crossed the maritime boundary between the two countries. The North Korean boat quickly turned around and crossed back into North Korean waters. The North Korean government complained but that was all. February 13, 2016: The U.S., Japan and South Korea agreed to expand the scope of the year old Trilateral Information Sharing Agreement. Just creating this deal took over a decade of effort. The agreement exists to better counter North Korean aggression. Creating, and expanding, this agreement was long believed impossible because of long-standing political obstacles to greater Japanese and South Korean cooperation. Despite the threat both countries faced from North Korea (and China) such cooperation has been impossible to achieve. Until 2014 South Korea turned down all Japanese proposals that both nations coordinate military policy against common enemies China and North Korea. Such cooperation is still very unpopular in South Korea because of continued anger over 40 years of brutal Japanese occupation early in the 20th century. This the Japanese consider self-destructive as it wallows in the past at the expense of dealing with current and future threats. Yet Japan continues to ignore the fact that its post-World War II policy (documented in decrypted Japanese diplomatic messages sent out right after the Japanese surrender in August 15, 1945) of claiming to be a victim in World War II and guilty only of trying to liberate all Asians from Western oppression is the obstacle. That Japan as victim view was never very popular with Japans neighbors, who saw Japan as no better (and often a lot worse) than Western imperialists. To the countries of East Asia Japan compounds these historical sins by continuing to insist that Japan is innocent of any wrongdoing. This made it difficult to unite to deal with threats from North Korea and China, but eventually both Japanese and South Koreans agreed to cooperate to protect their common interests. February 12, 2016: Japan is imposing new sanctions on North Korea, including limiting money transfers (to $870) between Japan and North Korea. Japan will also ban all North Koreans from entering Japan. Exceptions can be made but they have to be negotiated. North Korean vessels can no longer dock at any Japanese port nor can any ships that have been to North Korea. February 11, 2016: South Korea ordered South Korean firms to cease operations at the Kaesong Industrial Complex (KIC) because of the recent atomic bomb and long range missile tests. South Korea supplies the electricity and water to KIC and those were shut off today. South Korea noted that the North Korean government took 80 percent of the wages (about $150 a month) of North Koreans working at KIC and that money helped make possible continued work on nuclear weapons and long range missiles. Since 2005 the North Korea government has made at least half a billion dollars from the KIC. North Korea responded to the closing by seizing all South Korean property there. KIC was financed and run by over a hundred South Korean firms employing (at the closing) 50,000 North Koreans and about a thousand South Koreas. This closure appears final and the South Korean firms will lose half a billion dollars in equipment and facilities and about $200 million in inventories. The property and inventory now belongs to the North Korean government which is selling it off for whatever it can get. Resuming production at KIC is difficult because there is already a severe electricity shortage in North Korea and water supplies depend on electrical power. Over 100,000 North Koreans are now out of work (KIC staff plus local businesses). Despite the high government tax on their pay KIC workers were making more than the average North Korean and, more importantly, had dependable electricity and water supplies. There was also free medical care and all sorts of other fringe benefits. Thats all gone now and the North Koreans affected blame their government, not South Korea, for the loss. This is a major disappointment to the North Korean government, which now has lost $72 million a year in foreign currency plus the loyalty of several hundred thousand North Koreans who benefitted, directly or indirectly, from the KIC. Similar tensions caused a five month closing in 2013. This cost the South Korean firms running KIC about a billion dollars and when KIC reopened it was running at only half its pre-closure rate. Many of the firms there have shut down completely. North Korea was demanding more money from the South Korean firms at Kaesong and caused more companies to leave. North Korea closed the facility to punish South Korea for trying to get the North Koreans to halt their nuclear weapons program. The northern leaders soon discovered that the foreign currency generated by Kaesong was sorely missed. Few of the senior people in North Korea know much about accounting or how the world economy works, but the cash shortage created by the Kaesong shutdown got their attention. This was seen as an opportunity by China who soon convinced the northern leadership to make up with South Korea and get Kaesong operating again. China also pointed out that Chinese firms in North Korea (especially mining operations) are major suppliers of foreign currency and that China could shut these down if North Korea does not become more cooperative. February 10, 2016: South Korea has officially begun an effort to develop and build their own jet fighter (KFX) to replace its aging U.S. built F-4 and F-5 fighters. The KFX is intended to be an aircraft somewhere between the F-16 and the F-35 and will have some stealth capabilities. The KFX is expected to enter service in about ten years now that the government has found the cash and foreign partners to make it happen. Indonesia will be a partner in this effort by contributing 16 percent of the $8.5 billion required. South Korea will buy at least 120 KFXs while Indonesia will buy up to fifty as the first export customer. Indonesia will also get access to some of the technology and build some of the components. February 3, 2016: General Ri Yong Gil, chief of staff of the North Korean army, was arrested yesterday at a major conference. He was later executed for corruption and conspiring against the government. His successor was announced several weeks later without any mention of his predecessor. This is normal up north in situations like this. There were reports in 2015 that Ri was one of the veteran generals complaining about the appointment of inexperienced (in military matters) civilians to general rank mainly because these men were considered more loyal to the Kim dynasty. In which a veteran of cultural studies seminars in the 1990's moves into academic administration and finds himself a married suburban father of two. Foucault, plus lawn care. For private comments, I can be reached at deandad at gmail dot com. The opinions expressed here are my own and not those of my employer. The purpose of this blog is for me to publish not-quite-daily updates on my continuing research on the English Reformation and its aftermath, especially for Catholics until Emancipation in 1829; I'll particularly highlight the stories of the Catholic Martyrs of England and Wales, especially those beatified and canonized by the Holy See. I will also highlight promotional events for Supremacy and Survival: How Catholics Endured the English Reformation.If you like my blog, you might like my book, available from these retailers , on Kindle , and Nook ! [If you want a signed copy, please contact me via email: englishreform(at)cox(dot)net].Comment moderation is turned on; please be patient with me logging in to approve comments. SX90IARU was the callsign R.A.A.G. used to celebrate 90 years jubilee since IARU founding. I had the honor to participate in this event as an operator on 40m CW and 12m CW. Despite the fact SX90IARU was aired only for 1 month (December 2015), our great team managed to rank 2nd in QSO totals, amongst special xx90IARU stations from other countries, behind the German staff. We even surpassed the Russians !!! But, have in mind that the German and Russian special callsigns were active almost throughout 2015 !! Our operators' effort was rewarded with a beautiful operator certificate signed by the president of IARU himself. We are now looking forward to the century jubilee of IARU, where we will be again part of any special event to take place !! About Me bluegrasshack The picture of the Bluegrass Shack, Lucy, TN, is significant in my life. I first heard bluegrass music from the Tennessee Gentlemen right there in 1980. Life changed from that moment. As luck would have it, the ol' shack burned down some years ago. I keep its memory alive through this blog and my nickname. Am I 'bluegrasshack' or am I a 'bluegrass hack' [writer]? View my complete profile Blog Archive The money was donated by the Kirkland-based Biella Foundation, which gave $340,000 to all 34 state community and technical colleges. A statewide investment from a family foundation like this is unprecedented, said LCC Foundation Executive Director Erin Zeiger. The $10,000 grant will be used to support the LCC Student Success Fund, which helps students most at risk for dropping out due to financial emergencies (to) stay in college and finish their educational goals. 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. "We have followed the history of Marie Antoinette with the greatest diligence and scrupulosity. We have lived in those times. We have talked with some of her friends and some of her enemies; we have read, certainly not all, but hundreds of the libels written against her; and we have, in short, examined her life with if we may be allowed to say so of ourselves something of the accuracy of contemporaries, the diligence of inquirers, and the impartiality of historians, all combined; and we feel it our duty to declare, in as a solemn a manner as literature admits of, our well-matured opinion that every reproach against the morals of the queen was a gross calumny that she was, as we have said, one of the purest of human beings."~from History of the Guillotine by John Wilson Croker, 1844 Naina Khedekar Apple's big standoff with the FBI over unlocking an iPhone belonging to a terrorist has been hitting headlines for sometime now. For those living under the rock, Apple chief Tim Cook has refused a court order that wants the company to break into the iPhone owned by San Bernardino shooter, Syed Farook. Farook, along with his wife Tashfeen Malik, were responsible for killing 14 people on December 2 last year. So, doesn't Apple want to help nab a terrorist by opening a 'single' requested iPhone? Well, it does want to help, but opening one unit means creating a backdoor for future requests that may follow and eventually compromising on user privacy, believes Cook. Now, the question is how tech companies will comply criminal investigation whilst upholding their customers' secure data. Yes, that pretty much sums up what's the fight about. But there has a lot of mud-slinging over the last one week. Here's a quick timeline showing how it all started. February 16 Tim Cook wrote a long letter to its customers initiating a public discussion over court's orders that the company had decided not to comply with. He wrote how Apple has done everything possible in its power to help the FBI tackle the case. "Up to this point, we have done everything that is both within our power and within the law to help them. But now the U.S. government has asked us for something we simply do not have, and something we consider too dangerous to create. They have asked us to build a backdoor to the iPhone. Specifically, the FBI wants us to make a new version of the iPhone operating system, circumventing several important security features, and install it on an iPhone recovered during the investigation," Cook wrote. "In the wrong hands, this software which does not exist today would have the potential to unlock any iPhone in someones physical possession," he further explained. Read the complete letter here. February 17 While Apple was firm at its decision, the company saw support from arch-rival Google. Google chief Sundar Pichai said directed his followers to Apple Chief Executive Tim Cooks open letter arguing that helping the FBI try to get into the phone would sabotage the security of tens of millions of American citizen". February 19 By now, there were debates and discussions and people had started taking sides. Users supporting and opposing Apples position flooded Twitter with rival hashtags #thankyouapple and #boycottapple and Facebook users wrote lengthy posts on the move. Twitter CEO Jack Dorsey and Facebook were also among the firsts who voiced their support for Cook along with Google chief Sundar Pichai. The US Department of Justice (DOJ) slamed back at Apple saying the company's refusal was nothing but brand marketing strategy. The Obama administration also told a US magistrate judge that it would be willing to allow Apple to retain possession of and later destroy specialized software it has been ordered to design to help the FBI hack into the said encrypted iPhone. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump called on to boycott Apple products until it agreed to help the US government unlock the phone of the killers. Boycott Apple until such time as they give that information, Trump said. February 20 Tim Cook wrote an early morning email to employees, thanking them for their support, and urging the government to withdraw the demand that Apple help the FBI hack the locked iPhone. February 22 Reports pouring in from all quarters spoke about worldwide protests planned by Internet rights groups. Other companies came forward supporting Apple's stance including Huawei and Microsoft. February 23 Apple asked the US government for the creation of a government commission or panel of experts to discuss the implications of the demand on issues such as national security and personal freedoms, taking the case to public opinion. February 24 In an interview with the ABC News, Cook explained how unlocking San Bernardino iPhone would be bad for America. Meanwhile, prosecutors took unusual steps in enlisting victims of the San Bernardino attack in the governments heated battle with Apple. Family members of at least two victims will join a legal brief to be filed next week urging Apple to help the government unlock the phone. Here comes something that was worrying Apple. The US Justice Department started looking at court orders forcing Apple to help investigators extract data from iPhones in about a dozen undisclosed cases across the country, which were seized in a variety of criminal investigations. These cases also involve wherein prosecutors are compelling the company to help them bypass the passcode security feature, reports said. February 25 By now, Apple was reported to have started taking precautionary measures. It was developing security measures to make it even harder for the government to break into iPhones. The FBI had attempted to crack the pass code but failed as Apple systems are designed in a way that automatically erases the access key and renders the phone permanently inaccessible after 10 failed attempts, adds the report. Meanwhile, activists conitnued protesting against the FBIs attempt to install software with backdoors in all of Apples iPhones. February 26 Refuting Cook's claim of a dangerous precedent, the FBI chief said that it's quite unlikely to be a trailblazer for setting a precedent for other cases. And Apple continued to fire back at the US government in the encryption standoff asking the court to dismiss the order. No court has ever authorized what the government now seeks, no law supports such unlimited and sweeping use of the judicial process, and the constitution forbids it, Apples lawyers wrote in the motion filed in California federal court. Several major tech companies including Google, Facebook and Microsoft plan to file a joint motion supporting Apple. February 26 was said to be the last day for Apple to file its response to the motion filed by the Justice Department. February 27 Meanwhile, some rivals backed Apple's stance, and many others, mostly Asian companies, chose to stay tight lipped and maintain a low profile. February 29 In another case, a New York drug case, a federal judge in Brooklyn said the US government cannot force Apple to unlock an iPhone. In fact, a report hinted at that Members of the US House Judiciary Committee are considering filing a friend of the court brief in Apples encryption dispute with the US government to argue that the case should be decided by Congress and not the courts March 1 White House soon said that the New York ruling won't affect San Bernardino case. FBI Director James Comey told a congressional panel that forcing Apple to give the data of the shooter would be potentially precedential in other cases where the agency may require similar cooperation from tech companies. As you see, the statement seems contradictory to what he said last week about it is unlikely to be a trailblazer for setting a precedent for other cases. He also acknowledged that it was a mistake to ask San Bernardino County officials to reset the phones cloud storage account. This decision prevented the device from backing up information that the FBI could have read. By March 3, anyone outside the case can submit their remarks, which will be considered by the judge. On March 10, the government plans to respond to Apple and by March 15, Apple can submit its final reply to government's response. On March 22 a District Court will listen to both sides and take a call on the decision accordingly. hidden As Apple resists the US government in a high profile stand-off over privacy, rival device makers are, for now, keeping a low profile. Most are Asian companies -- the region produces eight of every 10 smartphones sold around the world -- and operate in a complex legal, political and security landscape. Only China's Huawei has publicly backed Apple CEO Tim Cook in his fight to resist demands to unlock an encrypted iPhone belonging to one of those who went on a shooting rampage in San Bernardino, California in December. "We put a lot of investment into privacy, and security protection is key. It is very important for the consumer," Richard Yu, chief executive of Huawei's consumer business group, told reporters at the Mobile World Congress earlier this week. But Yu stopped short of saying explicitly that Huawei would adopt the same stance. "Some things the government requires from vendors we cannot do," he said, citing an example of unlocking an encrypted Android device. "These are important things for the consumer, for privacy protection." Lenovo Group CEO Yang Yuanqing declined to say whether he backs the Apple position, saying the issue required time and consideration. "Today it happens to Apple, tomorrow it could happen to Lenovo mobile phones. So we must be very serious to consider. We need to take some time," Yang told Reuters. Samsung Electronics Co and Chinese device maker Xiaomi declined to comment, while ZTE Corporation did not respond to requests for comments. South Korean mobile maker LG Electronics Inc said it takes personal privacy and security very seriously, but declined to say whether it had ever worked with any government to insert so-called "backdoors" into its products or whether it had ever been asked to unlock a smartphone. "Nobody wants to be seen as a roadblock to an investigation," said a spokesperson for Micromax, India's biggest local smartphone maker. "Nobody wants that kind of stigma. We have to take care of both customer security as well as (a) genuine threat to national security." Many Asian countries don't have privacy laws that device makers can fall back on to resist demands from law enforcement authorities. "As part of the evidence gathering process provided for under the law, law enforcement agencies in Singapore may request information from persons or organizations," Singapore's Ministry of Home Affairs Spokesperson told Reuters. An official at India's telecom regulator said authorities can ask for private user data from technology companies, as can those in Indonesia, said Ismail Cawidu, spokesman for Indonesia's Communication and Information Ministry. Eugene Tan, associate professor of law at the Singapore Management University, said he wouldn't be surprised if technology firms weren't being asked for access to their devices. "It's just that these are not made public. You can imagine for the technology companies, they are also concerned about the publicity -- if they are seen to be caving in to law enforcement agencies, there is always a fear that people may not use their products and services," he said. Micromax said this was commonplace in India. "I can't say no to a law enforcement request, and every day there is one," the company's spokesperson said. "You have to comply with requests in the larger interest of national security." The Apple battle may even spur regulators in some markets to demand device makers to grant them access. Thailand's telecoms regulator said it is studying the possibility of having separate agreements with handset makers and social media firms such as Facebook and Naver's LINE to help extract data from mobile phones. "There is political pressure" for regulating devices, said Rob Bratby, manager of Olswang Asia, a technology-focused law firm based in Singapore. He said there was no evidence of any such regulatory interest yet, but it was a matter of time. Reuters hidden Apple CEO Tim Cook got a standing ovation Friday at his first stockholder meeting since his companys epic clash with the FBI unfolded. He defended the companys unbending stance by saying: These are the right things to do. On Thursday, the tech giant formally challenged a court order to help the FBI unlock an encrypted iPhone used by a murderous extremist in San Bernardino, California. Federal officials have said theyre only asking for narrow assistance in bypassing some of the phones security features. But Apple contends the order would force it to write a software program that would make other iPhones vulnerable to hacking by authorities or criminals in the future. Major tech companies are rallying to Apples cause, and now plan a joint friend of the court brief on its behalf. Facebook said it will join with Google, Twitter and Microsoft on a joint court filing. A Twitter spokeswoman confirmed that plan, but said that different companies and trade associations will likely file multiple briefs. (Also read: Apple vs FBI: The iPhone encryption battle story, so far) Apple filed court papers on Thursday that asked US Magistrate Sheri Pym to reverse her order on the grounds that the government had no legal authority to force the company to weaken the security of its own products. The company accused the government of seeking dangerous power through the courts and of trampling on its constitutional rights. The dispute raises broad issues of legal and social policy, with at least one poll showing 51% of Americans think Apple should cooperate by helping the government unlock the iPhone. The FBI and other law-enforcement agencies insist they need to get into the phone in order to run down every lead in the San Bernardino shootings, which were at least partly inspired by the Islamic State extremist group. But sceptics have questioned whether this particular device a work phone issued by one shooters employer is likely to contain much useful information. Both assailants took care to destroy their personal phones prior to the massacre. Some police officials acknowledge similar doubts. If they went out of their way to destroy the other phones, theres a pretty good chance there may not be anything of value, said Jarrod Burguan, San Bernardinos police chief. This may be a whole lot of sabre rattling and back and forth for nothing. Burguan, however, believes police still have a duty and a responsibility to make sure theres no useful evidence on the phone. Its unclear how the controversy might affect Apples business. Analysts at Piper Jaffray said a survey they commissioned last week found the controversy wasnt hurting the way most Americans think about Apple or its products. At least one shareholder at Fridays meeting voiced support for the companys stance. Apple is 100 percent correct in not providing or doing research to create software to break into it, said Tom Rapko, an Apple investor from Santa Barbara, California, as he waited in line to enter the auditorium at Apples headquarters. I think if you give the government an inch, theyll take a yard. Cook offered only brief remarks about the FBI case, and most questions from shareholders concerned other aspects of Apples business. But the CEO won praise during the meeting from the Rev. Jesse Jackson and Cindy Cohn, executive director of the Internet rights group the Electronic Frontier Foundation. We applaud your leadership, said Jackson, a long-time civil rights leader and former adviser to Martin Luther King, Jr. I recall the FBI wiretapping Dr. King in the civil rights movement, Jackson added. We cannot go down this path again. Some of us do remember the days of (former FBI director J. Edgar) Hoover and McCarthy and Nixon and enemies lists. Apples share price has seen little change since the issue erupted in the news last week. Overall, though, the companys stock has declined in recent months over worries that iPhone sales were slowing around the world. A hearing on the iPhone legal dispute is scheduled for next month. Associated Press Karrishma Modhy Almost everyone in Silicon Valley has Apples back. Several major tech companies including Google, Facebook and Microsoft are siding with Apple which is currently in a unique battle with the FBI as the government agency wants to create a backdoor entry into iOS, so it could gain access to information when needed from any user, for situations such as a terrorist attack. A report by Wall Street Journal had stated that these companies plan to file a joint motion supporting Apple. In its court fight against the Justice Department over unlocking an alleged terrorists iPhone, according to people familiar with the companies plans. Twitter will also be seen supporting Apple in motion though it is unclear if it will join the combined filing. Microsofts legal chief, Brad Smith also stated that the company plans to file an amicus brief in support of Apples resistance to helping the FBI hack the phone. In addition, Facebook is also expected to throw in their legal support behind Apple. To everyones surprise, Verizon Wireless, a mobile carrier in the United States has stood up in support of Apple in its legal showdown with the FBI too! Motion to Vacate Brief and Supporting Declarations This move has clearly come to light after the San Bernardino, California shooting which took place in December. The county-owned iPhone was used by Rizwan Farook, who along with his wife, Tashfeen Malik, shot and killed 14 people and wounded 22 others at a holiday party in San Bernardino in December. The other phones, which were seized in a variety of criminal investigations, are involved in cases where prosecutors are compelling the company to help them bypass the pass code security feature of phones that may hold evidence. Apple has filed a motion where the government requested, "Just this once" and "Just this phone." But the government knows those statements are not true; indeed the government has filed multiple other applications for similar orders, some of which are pending in other courts. Apple's Tim Cook says that the iPhone encryption debate should shift the debate over national security and privacy to Capitol Hill. This case has drawn worldwide attention and the result might decide as to how the government could peep into our privacy and security, forever. But, what made these cold-war rivals unite? Apples iOS is in a constant war with Googles Android. Microsofts Windows OS tries to compete with the other two. Apple, Twitter and Facebook battle it out in a war for content online. So what makes this case so special, that it brought together the biggest and the most powerful companies in the world? Panic! Whats in it for Facebook, Microsoft and others? Facebooks Mark Zuckerberg said at the Mobile World Congress that, Were sympathetic with Apple. We believe in encryption we think that thats an important tool. Even though he believes that Facebook has a pretty big responsibility to help prevent terrorist attacks, giving the government access to information could backfire heavily against it. In 2015, 3.2 million users used Facebook. Thats a huge number of population flocking to the giants website every day, with new users added by the minute. If users feel that their data is at risk, the number of visitors would decrease which in turn, would create losses for the company. Just as the others, Facebook too wants to keep the law and order at bay, and also, reassure its users that it is not willing to share any private information online. Facebook-owned WhatsApp shares similar thoughts too. WhatsApp chief Jan Koum stated via a Facebook post that, We must not allow this dangerous precedent to be set. Today our freedom and our liberty is at stake." The widely popular messaging app which is used by billions, where conversions go into trillions, cannot be at the risk of exposure. Its a matter of utmost security. He added, It is important for these other applications to make statements. ... If people are worried about their privacy, they might stand behind those apps more. Similarly, Twitter and Square chief Jack Dorsey has also thrown in its support with Apple against the battle with the FBI. https://twitter.com/jack/status/700457149227360256?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw It is evident that at a time where the company is struggling itself in the race to be on top, it would not like to lose out on any customers for sure. A social platform which survives only on words and comments shared online, having access to information on Twitter would lead to less and less users sharing their outrageous thoughts via the platform. The last thing the company needs to worry about is people exiting the service due to privacy issues. And now, we come to Google. Googles stand with Apple might be the most significant one because; the company could have itself been in Apples shoes. Sundar Pichai, Googles chief executive officer, tweeted asking companies to create a way to hack into peoples devices and data would set a troubling precedent. Being a part of the same tech space, Google supporting Apple is more important rather than the government. Who would want to hack their own devices and share information with the US government. How does it end? Although this is a battle between Apple and the FBI, at a broader level, it's actually the beginning of something horrendous. As Cook said, 'it's about the future.' As Apple pointed out, the government's request, "Just this once" and "Just this phone", wouldn't end with the San Bernandino case. Online social networking platforms thrive on user privacy, which is critical for users as well. If a law enabling government access to user information is eventually passed, it could potentially trigger the downfall of such massive digital services as Facebook, Twitter, and myriad others. hidden The government has asked Google to select a telecom operator as a partner for testing the balloon-based Internet technology, Loon Project, in India. Google wants to test the Loon Project in expensive and scarce spectrum bands. It has been asked to partner with any telecom operator that can meet its requirement and then approach the government for testing Loon, an official said. The official said that if Google wishes to conduct a test with Bharat Sanchar Nigam Ltd (BSNL), it can carry out the experiment in the spectrum held by the state-owned company. This approach should resolve the spectrum band sought by Google as well as security, to some extent, the official added. An e-mail sent to Google went unanswered. In India, Google has approached the government to set up the Loon Project that has the potential to replace mobile towers as it can directly transmit signal on 4G mobile phones. The telecom ministry has formed a panel under the information technology secretary and asked BSNL to look at providing necessary support for the experiment. Meetings in this regard were held in October-November. The project hit a roadblock after Google sought to conduct test in 700 megahertz (MHz) or 800 MHz band instead of 2,500 MHz band that BSNL holds. The 700 Mhz band is the most expensive and efficient spectrum for telecom services and is yet to be allocated to any service provider. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India has suggested including this spectrum in upcoming auction at a minimum price of Rs.11,485 crore per MHz and a company will require to buy a minimum of 5 MHz. Google, under its Project Loon, is using big balloons floating at a height of 20 km above the earth surface for transmission of Internet services. It has already tested this technology in New Zealand, California in the US and Brazil. As per Google, each balloon can provide connectivity to a ground area of about 40 km in diameter using LTE (long-term evolution) or 4G. Google uses solar panel and wind to power electronic equipment in the balloon throughout the day. PTI tech2 News Staff Microsoft's lack of success with selling their own hardware is patently obvious to all. Undeterred by the minimal interest in Windows 10 Mobile, the company has now switched gears and is reportedly in talks with the likes of Xiaomi and OnePlus. They plan to bring Windows 10 ROMs to the Mi 5, OnePlus 2 and OnePlus 3. Microsoft did, earlier, release a Windows 10 ROM for the Xiaomi Mi 4. Flashing the ROM was a simple process of heading to Xiaomi's forums, downloading the flashing tool and ROM and following some instructions. All told, the entire process didn't take more than a few minutes. The response to that OS was mixed (it's going to take a rare breed of person to give up Android for Windows Phone that easily) and maybe Microsoft is probably hoping for better success this time around. More than anything else, we're hoping that continuum makes its way to the Mi 5, OnePlus 2 and OnePlus 3. It's the only really interesting feature of Windows 10 for mobile and it'd be a shame indeed if it were missing. Microsoft is obviously keen on keeping Windows 10 alive, but they can't do much if their devices are going to be gathering dust on store shelves. Maybe circulating a few ROMs for Android devices with an audience that appreciate custom ROMs isn't such a bad idea after all. tech2 News Staff In a blog post published a few days ago, WhatsApp revealed that they will be withdrawing support for BlackBerry devices (BB10 included), Symbian 40, Symbian 60, Android 2.1 and 2.2 devices and Windows Phone 7.1 sometime this year. WhatsApp wrote that the market right now comprises of 99% Android, iOS and Windows Phone 8 and above devices. They said that the decision was "not an easy one to make" and that the market has evolved. While other platforms will suffer, there is some respite for BB10 users as their devices are capable of running Android apps within the OS. They will, of course, lose out on Hub integration, but if they really want WhatsApp, that might be the only way. "While these mobile devices have been an important part of our story, they don't offer the kind of capabilities we need to expand our app's features in the future.", say WhatsApp. Finally, they add that, "This was a tough decision for us to make, but the right one in order to give people better ways to keep in touch with friends, family, and loved ones using WhatsApp. If you use one of these affected mobile devices, we recommend upgrading to a newer Android, iPhone, or Windows Phone before the end of 2016 to continue using WhatsApp." Switching to another platform might be a hard pill to swallow for lovers of BlackBerry and other mobile operating systems. But they will not be left with any other option. hidden Facebook has learned from Germany to include migrants as a class of people that needed to be protected from "hate speech" online, Chief Executive Mark Zuckerberg said on the second day of a visit to Berlin. A perceived slowness to remove anti-migrant postings by neo-Nazi sympathizers has increased antipathy to Facebook in Germany at a time of raised tensions and outbreaks of violence against record numbers of migrants arriving in the country. Facebook already has the cultural obstacle of privacy to deal with in Germany, a country reunited after the Cold War only 25 years ago where memories of spying were reawakened by Edward Snowden's 2013 revelations of prying by the state. The world's biggest social network rarely breaks down users by country but says it has about 21 million daily users in Germany or about a quarter of the population, fewer than the 24 million it had in less populous Britain more than two years ago. "I just think there's an incredibly rich history here, in this city and in this country that shapes the culture and really makes Germans in a lot of ways the leaders in the world when it comes to pushing for privacy," Zuckerberg said. "That's one of the important things about coming here," the 31-year-old entrepreneur told an audience of more than 1,000 young people, mostly students, who had been invited through their universities or signed up on Facebook to ask a question. Zuckerberg, who spent his first day in Berlin jogging in the snow, meeting Chancellor Angela Merkel's chief of staff, talking about technology and receiving an award, engaged on Friday with the issues that dog the company in Germany. Journalists were not permitted to ask questions during the town hall meeting nor on any other part of Zuckerberg's visit. Asked why he was not doing more to remove "hate speech" from Facebook in Germany, Zuckerberg talked about an initiative with local partners to counter that and the 200 people the social network had hired in Germany to help police the site. He said Facebook had not previously considered migrants as a class of people who needed protection, akin to racial minorities or other underrepresented groups that Facebook looks out for. "Learning more about German culture and German law has led us to change our approach on that," he said. "This is always a work in progress. I'm not going to claim up here today that we're perfect, we're definitely not." Nineteen-year-old Jonas Umland, an IT student who posed the question on "hate speech", expressed a degree of satisfaction with Zuckerberg's answer. "I found it good that Mark said there was room for improvement. On the other hand, he didn't mention any specific measures Facebook would take," he told Reuters after the event. "He came across very well, also at times spontaneous," he said. "I found him very likeable." Reuters Supreme Court stays Barrister Shakila`s bail Dhaka, UNB: The Appellate Division of the Supreme Court on Monday stayed the bail of Supreme Court lawyer Barrister Shakila Farzana till March 20 in a case filed over charges of terror financing. A five member bench led by Chief Justice SK Sinha passed the order after a hearing today (Monday) on a petition filed earlier on February 23 by the state counsel challenging the bail granted to Shakila by a High Court bench. Attorney General Mahbubey Alam stood for the state during the hearing while Advocate Joynal Abedin and Sagir Hossain Lion conducted the hearing on behalf of Shakila Farzana. The Supreme Court also fixed March 20 for the next hearing, said Shakilas lawyer Sagir Hossain Lion. Earlier on February 22, the High Court granted bail to Supreme Court lawyer Barrister Shakila Farzana in the case. On February 23, a day after the High Court (HC) granted bail to Barrister Shakila Farzana, the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court stayed it till February 29 in response to a plea filed by the state seeking a stay order over the HC bail to Shakila Farzana. The court also fixed February 29 for hearing the petition in the regular bench of the Appellate Division. On August 18, 2015, members of Rapid Action Battalion (Rab) arrested three lawyers, including Supreme Court (SC) lawyers Shakila and Hasanuzzaman Liton, on charge of financing militant outfit Sahed Hamza Brigade (SHB) from Dhanmondi area of the city. They were shown arrested in an arms case filed in connection with arms recovery from Latmoni Hill in Banshkhali upazila on February 21. Shakila Farzana, 39, is a practising lawyer at the High Court Division of the Supreme Court. She is the incumbent joint general secretary of the Supreme Court wing of Bangladesh Jatiyatabadi Ainjibi Forum, a pro-BNP lawyers body. Daughter of Syed Wahidul Alam, a former BNP whip and MP from Chittagong during 2001-06 tenure, Shakila is also a member of the Dhaka District Bar Association and the SC Bar Association. Philippines asks China to respect sea dispute arbitration Reuters, Manila : The Philippines on Monday urged China to respect a forthcoming ruling by an arbitration court in The Hague on a territorial dispute in the South China Sea after Beijing accused Manila of "political provocation". China claims almost the entire South China Sea, believed to have huge deposits of oil and gas. Brunei, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Vietnam also have claims on the waters, through which about $5 trillion in trade is shipped every year. China refuses to recognize the case lodged by the Philippines with the tribunal and says all disputes should be resolved through bilateral talks. "The Philippines, as well as the international community, is asking China to respect the forthcoming ruling of the arbitral tribunal and together advance an international rules-based regime," Philippine Foreign Secretary Albert del Rosario said in a statement in Manila. ISIL bombings near Baghdad kill scores of Iraqis Al Jazeera News : Two bomb blasts have killed at least 70 people at a market just outside Baghdad and security forces have been targeted elsewhere in one of Iraq's bloodiest days in recent weeks. The Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group claimed responsiblity for Sunday's attacks, the deadliest of which hit the predominantly Shia neighbourhood of Sadr City, just north of the Iraqi capital Baghad. The explosions, caused by two roadside bombs, left 100 people injured in addition to the deaths. Al Jazeera's Waleed Ibrahim, reporting from Baghdad, said the explosions occurred in a very busy market area. "According to sources, the first bomb exploded on a motorcycle followed by a suicide bomber blowing himself up as people gathered to help the injured from the first blast," he said. "It's a Shia-majority area that is subject to heavy security measures, but as we can see those measures aren't quite enough to stop such attacks from happening." The Baghdad blasts occurred just hours after government troops and policemen came under attack from ISIL, which has seized territory both in Iraq and Syria. In Abu Ghraib, west of Baghdad, a number of policemen were kidnapped after an attack there. A nearby village was also raided by ISIL, military sources told Al Jazeera. They said both sites are now under ISIL control. In yet another incident on Sunday, 18 policemen were killed in an ISIL assault on military barracks near Fallujah in the western Anbar province. The attack happened close to water-distribution plants in the town of Amiriyat al-Fallujah. Military sources said a number of policemen were killed in an ISIL suicide car bombing. During the Abu Ghraib assault, a number of tribal fighters were abducted along with the policemen to unknown locations, sources said on condition of anonymity, citing security concerns. However, Baghdad's operations command centre denied that any of its forces were taken prisoner, saying two suicide attackers were killed during what it called a foiled assault. Abu Ghraib - on the western outskirts of Baghdad - is considered administratively to be part of Baghdad city. For more than a year now, ISIL has wanted to get closer to Baghdad city and Abu Ghraib prison. The jail has gained notoriety since revelations that US troops abused Iraqi prisoners there after the 2003 invasion. ISIL's offensive near Baghdad came after government forces took back significant territory in Anbar, which largely remains one of the group's strongholds. Iraq's government announced in late December that its troops had recaptured the provincial capital Ramadi, but fighting with ISIL has continued on the city's outskirts since then. Why Super Tuesday is so important Donald Trump is expected to dominate among Republicans: he is currently polling at 37.5 percent Al Jazeera News : Super Tuesday is the name given to the day when the largest number of US states are given the chance to cast votes for Republican and Democratic candidates. It is usually seen as a turning point in most presidential campaigns, and a key indicator as to who the nominees will be from each party. It narrows the field. No doubt, it will clarify the future of the five remaining Republican candidates - Donald Trump, Ted Cruz, Ben Carson, John Kasich, and Marco Rubio. On March 1, a total of 12 states and one territory will hold their respective primaries or caucuses. Hillary Clinton wins South Carolina For both Republicans and Democrats, Super Tuesday comes down to amassing delegates. For Republicans, 595 delegates are at stake. For Democrats, there are 1,004. Considering Republican candidates need 1,237 delegates to win the party's nomination and Democrats need 2,383, Super Tuesday is one of the most important days in the US presidential election. This year there is an expanded cast of Super Tuesday states. Alabama, Arkansas, and Texas have joined Super Tuesday, and Minnesota has also scheduled its primary on the same date. In short, Super Tuesday, which covers a broad swath of the United States - and politics of all persuasions - is a potent realisation of both the economic staying power and organisational skills of all of the candidates. For Democrats, this will mean a real stress test for grassroots campaigns, such as the one currently being run by Bernie Sanders. Large primary events such as Super Tuesday inevitably favour well-funded candidates like his rival Hillary Clinton. Within the ranks of the Republicans, only Donald Trump, Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio remain viable candidates for Super Tuesday and beyond. Senator Cruz's home state of Texas is holding one of the primaries on March 1, and Cruz is relying on strong evangelic support. Trump, of course, is expected to dominate: he is currently polling at 37.5 percent. Rubio is considered the party's compromise candidate. More delegates can be won on Super Tuesday than any other day of the election. Candidates will receive delegates based on the percentage of votes they receive. Migrants break down Macedonia fence on Greek border Macedonian police confronted hundreds of angry migrants at the fence BBC Online: A crowd of migrants has broken down a barbed-wire fence on the Macedonia-Greece border using a steel pole as a battering ram. TV footage showed migrants pushing against the fence at Idomeni, ripping away barbed wire, as Macedonian police let off tear gas to force them away. A section of fence was smashed open with a metal signpost. It is not clear whether any migrants got through. Many of those trying to reach northern Europe are Syrian and Iraqi refugees. About 7,000 people are stuck on the Greek side of the border, as Macedonia is letting very few in. Many have been camping in squalid conditions for a week or more, with little food or medical help. The chaos on Monday erupted as hundreds of people pushed their way past Greek police to reach the gate used to let trains through at the border crossing. The protesters shouted "Open the border!" and threw stones at Macedonian riot police, while one group rammed the gate with the metal sign. Police responded by firing rounds of tear gas to force them back, before reinforcing the barrier. Macedonia and some other Balkan countries have erected fences in an attempt to reduce the influx of migrants, after more than a million reached Germany last year. Greece is angry with Austria for having imposed a cap on migrant numbers. The crisis has left Greece shouldering much of the burden of housing migrants arriving in the EU from Turkey. Many are refugees fleeing war in the Middle East, while others are escaping human rights abuses in Afghanistan, Eritrea and other conflict zones. On Sunday German Chancellor Angela Merkel urged Europe to help Greece in the current migrant crisis. In a TV interview she said: "Do you seriously believe that all the euro states that last year fought all the way to keep Greece in the eurozone, and we were the strictest, can one year later allow Greece to, in a way, plunge into chaos?" She defended her decision last year to allow migrants in without a cap on numbers, saying she had no "Plan B". She has insisted that Germany can cope with the influx - and has a humanitarian duty to look after war refugees. But her stance has been strongly criticised by some EU neighbours and some politicians in her ruling conservative CDU-CSU bloc. Greece, under intense pressure from anxious EU partners, has erected extra reception centres on the Greek islands near Turkey, where thousands of migrants have been arriving daily. Austria and Hungary have adopted a tougher stance than Germany. Hungary has fenced off its southern border and refuses to take in any non-EU migrants. Solar irrigation for sustainable agriculture Polin Kumar Saha : Bangladesh is a country of agriculture-based economy where almost half of the country's population is directly involved in agriculture. In ranking of world agricultural production, Bangladesh has to be proud of its amazing success in the agriculture sector, which plays an important role in the country's rising economy. However, farmers usually use irrigation pumps to supply adequate water for their crops where fuel based traditional irrigation system is still popular with most of the farmers in the country's agriculture. Based on the World Bank information, Bangladesh spends $900 million every year for 1 million tons of diesel to run its irrigation systems. It is a huge demand of fuel in our irrigation system which is obviously not an environment friendly demand because of its releasing greenhouse gases to the atmosphere. Over the period, technology has been changed dramatically in the irrigation scheme of Bangladesh. In the last few years, farmers are moving to the solar based irrigation pumps in different parts of Bangladesh, since the cost of diesel pump is higher compared to the solar pump - as the major considerable point to them. But, this innovative irrigation system is executed not only for the matter of costs to purchase diesel fuel, but solar-powered pumps are a realistic choice in the context of sustainable agricultural practices - as it is a global demand in renewable energy technology, protect the environment and reduce the consumption of inadequate earth resources. During the peak season of irrigation, about 20% of our total produced electricity is used by the farmers. As a result of this, there is becoming a situation of supplying shortage of electricity in many areas of the country, especially at the time of irrigation period. If we consider for our long term benefits with the electricity demand and supply, switching to the solar based power pumps can promote us to access more electricity without an interruption of power supply sometimes- sustainability benefit in context of electricity for all (social benefit). On the other hand, the burden of government's ability to produce electricity will be decreased, and consequently, the overall cost of fuel based electricity production and pollution will be reduced gradually - sustainability benefit 2 in the context of economic viability and friendly environment. In aspects of sustainability approach in our daily life, we should always prefer the best choice on any resources which are plenty of nature and renewable. Because, if we immediately don't decrease our use of natural resources based on the earth's crust (e.g. fossil fuel, gas, minerals etc), we could not be able to build the society sustained for our future generation. As we are being in the country of the tropical region, solar energy is unlimited and abundant resources to use it as a renewable source without the hassle of extraction from the earth's crust- sustainability benefit 3 in context economic and environmental benefits. Physical degradation like loss or unproductive of land body, water body and biodiversity will not be encouraged if we continue to use our sunshine as the source of our energy in all the development sectors of Bangladesh in the context of achieving environmental sustainability. However, these are the overall major dimensions of achieving sustainability goals through the solar based irrigation system in Bangladesh. As a part of sustainable agricultural development, the solar-run irrigation system has a high potential value in terms of previous sustainability benefits, but this new system has also some negative remarks that have been voiced in the project areas. Firstly, the innovative irrigation system is using ground water resources extensively to irrigate the crop land. Different reports show that ground water quality is mostly better than the surface water (e.g. river, lake, pond etc) and good for crop health as well, but in context of sustainable manner, ground water resources are limited, even for our drinking and any production purpose. Because of extensive use of ground water in the irrigation system, the ground water aquifer is filling up its storage capacity by discharging saline water from the sea. As the long term impact, salinity intrusion has started to be channeled from southern part to the upper part of the country. Already this situation has been an alarming signal within the adverse impacts on agriculture in many areas of Bangladesh. The solution might be to use conjunctive sources of surface and groundwater, because the only use of surface water could not be possible in many areas as the sources of surface water are far away from the cultivable land, or not cost effective to collect, or because of polluted surface water reservoir. Assuming the mixed sources of water use, our national policy should be carefully considered indicating the sustainability problems before selecting and elaborating the different options of conjunctive use of both water resources. Therefore, solar based irrigation needs to be planned with more feasibility studies conducted to determine the project area wise aquifer storage availability, and comparative environmental and economic benefits of the possible water sources. Secondly, a recent report on the progress of solar based irrigation pumps shows that the present cost of irrigation is half of the previous cost of the diesel operated irrigation pump. In addition, solar pumps require fewer amounts of land and water in operating the irrigation technology. In the system, no drain is required to irrigate the land, so that the wastage of water is not headed so far. However, behind these entire positive remarks of the solar pumps, the project areas are getting also unpleasant experiences of a community whose livelihood particularly depend on diesel business. It is an evidence based experience that incorporating technology creates unemployment in some cases. In fact, diesel sellers are becoming very unhappy due to the revolution of new technology in the agriculture sector that runs without diesel. According to the report, diesel selling goes down less than one third compared to the situation before coming solar pumps in the project areas. Apparently, less selling, or less use of diesel is a manner of sustainable behavior in our daily life, but in another way, sustainable technology does not have rights to hamper anyone's livelihood security. This is a confliction of sustainability interest in using the renewable technology; therefore, the solar irrigation system should be operated considering the recovery of all other socio-ecological impacts locally derived from the new technology. Agriculture is still one of the highest priority sectors of the Bangladesh government, along with the energy sector. Also a priority of government concern is building the capacity to provide electrical power to ensure the food security for 160 million people now. In this context, the opportunity of solar power conversion into energy promotes the access of farmers to continuous energy supply which are significantly needed for agricultural drive. In the process, we should innovate to overcome our growing burden on problems surrounding energy, water and food. Solar irrigation is one of such innovation to address the sustainability problems entire cycle of energy, water and food security for the next generations. Though it has a great concern to the technical and economic feasibility of solar irrigation systems, since the initial investment to implement this technology is quite impossible for the poor farmers. However, a widespread of the technology depends on the financial and technical support to the farmers as much as possible. Finally, from the perspectives of sustainable irrigation technology, we need to continue our work on: further investigation of the feasibility of solar irrigation for site specific installation; evaluation of the recent development driven by solar irrigation; evaluation of energy conversion processes optimally; development of public-private partnership with a lot of new investment; and development of new entrepreneurship for the diesel business people driven by new technology adaptation in the project areas. Smriti Irani's arrogance, lies forced us to bring privilege motion: Congress ANI, New Delhi : The Congress Party on Monday said Union Human Resource and Development Minister Smriti Irani 's arrogance and blatant lies in Parliament during the discussion on Hyderabad University scholar Rohith Vemula forced them to move the privilege motion against her. "What Smriti Irani said in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were blatant lies and this hasn't been claimed by the Opposition, but by the people who knew Rohith; his family members and his University colleagues. Why does she have so much arrogance? Irani could have accepted that she got the facts wrong and the matter would have been over. But just because they are in power, they have arrogance and this arrogance will let them down," Punia told ANI. "The present government fails to reach out to the Opposition only because of its arrogance. Instead of running the house in a proper way, there has been a situation of conflict in Parliament. This is not a good sign for the parliamentary democracy," Punia added. Earlier, the Congress had said that Irani's statement in Parliament over the Vemula case had many contradictions and it was a "fit case" for a privilege motion as she had "misled" the nation. "There would be a privilege motion and it should be done. She said some two to three things especially in the Lok Sabha on which there is contradiction," Leader of Opposition in Rajya Sabha, Ghulam Nabi Azad, told reporters in Srinagar. "The family (of Rohith) also said police as well as the doctor were present there.... The doctor contradicted her (the minister), the police contradicted her and his mother contradicted her. So, obviously, there will be a privilege motion. Everything is recorded on both sides. So this is a fit case for privilege (motion)," Azad said. Irani in her speech in Parliament had said there was no question of an apology from her. She pointed out that according to a report submitted to the Telangana High Court, the police had reached Rohith's hostel at 7:20 pm when they found the body. "The police said that when they reached the hostel, they found the room open and the dead body was on the table. A hand written suicide note was found. The suicide note that was left behind does not blame anyone," she said. "This is not my submission. This is what the police said. No one allowed a doctor near this child, to revive this child. Instead, his body was used as a political tool. No police was allowed till 6:30 am the following morning. Who tried to help this child?" she asked. Goodbye Boi Mela 2016 Abir Rayhan : The month-long Amar Ekushey Boi Mela, the largest historical event of the country, ended on Monday. Thousands of bookworms thronged the Bangla Academy premises and Suhrawardy Udyan on the closing day to use the last opportunity to collect their favourite writers' books. The visitors were found standing in long queues from the Teachers-Students Centre (TSC) and Curzon Hall on the Dhaka University (DU) campus on Monday evening. Publishers and readers expressed satisfaction over the day's turnover and the peaceful completion of the fair this year. A total of 3444 new titles arrived at the Boi Mela this year with 939 poetry books followed by 529 novels, 503 books on stories and 197 volumes of Article. Last year, 3700 new books graced the fair while the figure was 2,959 in 2014, 3,070 in 2013, 3,669 in 2012, 3,013 in 2011 and 3,354 in 2010. The total sales are Tk 40.50 crore this year comparing with 21.95 crore in 2015, 16.50 crore in 2014, 10.15 crore in 2013 and Tk 26 crore in 2012. The Bangla Academy also sold books worth 1.55 crore this year. Last year, the academy's turnover was Tk1.60 crore, Tk 1.10 crore in 2014, Tk 67.40 lakh in 2013 and Tk 82.53 lakh in 2012, Tk 72.83 lakh in 2011, Tk 68.01 lakh in 2010 and Tk 61.60 lakh in 2009. Bangla Academy authority arranged a closing ceremony in the evening in the main stage of the fair where Dr Jalal Ahmed, Member Secretary of the Boi Mela organising committee, presented the final report at the Boi Mela. Cultural Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Noor was present at the function, as the chief guest, while Cultural Secretary Begum Aktari Momtaz was present as the special guest. Bangla Academy Director General Shamsuzzaman Khan gave welcome speech while Bangla Academy President Professor Emeritus Anisuzzaman presided over the function. Shamsuzzaman Khan expressed contentment at the successful completion of the fair. In his welcome speech, he thanked everyone, particularly the fair organising committee for its tremendous effort. Cultural Affairs Minister Asaduzzaman Noor said, "It was a challenge for us to arrange the month-long fair. With the help of everyone, we did it successfully. It is not only a fair of sales but also a fair of Ekushey spirit. "Anisuzzaman, Professor Emeritus at the University of Dhaka said, "Ekushey Book Fair has become a national festival now. The way people show their love and interest to books through this fair is incredible. "Meanwhile, Researcher and interpreter Frach Vhottacharja and litterateur Monzu Islam won the 'Syed Waliullah Award' for their contribution to expanding Bengali Literature abroad. Mowla Brothers got 'Chittaranjan Saha Memorial Award-2016' for publishing quality books in 2015, Bengal Publication Ltd, Nimfiyea Publication and Pathsutra achieved together 'Shaheed Munier Chowdhury Memorial Award-2016' for publishing the Jibanando Dasher Mulanog Path-Vumika O Kobita, Buddhist Heritage of Bangladesh and Ami Ekti Baz Pakhike Hotta Korte Cheyechhilam, Moyurponkhi got 'Rokonuzzaman Khan Dadabhai Memorial Award-2016' for publishing record books on children literature, Somoy Prokashon, Moddhoma Publication and Jarniman Books achieved together 'Shilpi Kaiyum Chowdhury Memorial Award-2016' for their outstanding adorn. On the concluding day, 140 new books arrived at the Boi Mela and 4 new books were also unveiled at Nazrul Mancha. The unveiled books are, Moon Light of Roksana Gulshan published by Shobda Kosh Prokashoni, Tashera Bukmark of Jueyirija Mou published by Mitakhora, Hiramon Paharer Rahsa of Saiful Islam Jewel published by Shishu Rajyo and Kothay Khuji Tarey of Saiful Islam Jewel published by Priyo Mukh. This year, the authorities have allotted a total of 651 stalls - 111 at the Bangla Academy ground to 82 organisatons and 540 at Suhrawardy Udyan to 320 organisations. Besides, 15 pavilions have been allocated for 14 publishing houses, including Bangla Academy. Many of the publishers were seen to prepare their stalls to attract the book lovers. A fascinating cultural function was held in the main podium of the Bangla Academy. Farida Parvin, Gazi Abdul Hakim, Mohammad Delowar Hossen and S M Reza Babu were performed. PM blasts Star, Prothom Alo editors for 1/11 role Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina yesterday accused editors of the country's two leading newspapers for their connivance with the actors of 1/11 in 2007, who intimidated the politicians as well as the students, teachers and businessmen after taking over power. "As part of their close conspiratorial association with the Minus-2 formula, the two editors were closely involved with the actors of the 1/11 and published news supplied by the DGFI at that time against me to brand me as corrupt," she said adding that the two newspapers for the last 20 years have also been hatching conspiracy against her. The prime minister said this while taking part on the motion in the parliament moved by Chief Whip for giving thanks to the President for his speech given on the first day of the ninth session of the 10th Parliament and delivering valedictory speech marking the closer of the session. Sheikh Hasina said although she was the leader of the opposition, she was arrested first by the 1/11 rulers implicating her in many false cases with a view to ousting her from the national politics. "My governments have provided maximum opportunities for the media, but I most unfortunately was victimized by the media in the worst form," the prime minister lamented. Mentioning the names of the Daily Star editor and the Prothom Alo editor, the prime minister said the two editors acted as the agents of DGFI and tried to thwart the democratic politics in the country in collusion with Brigadier Bari and Brigadier Amin, two top brasses of army at that time. The prime minister also blasted Dr Mohammad Yunus, saying the two editors and the military rulers tried to float a political party with him, hatching conspiracy to create an unstable situation in the country. She also blasted Dr Yunus for his role to pursue the World Bank to withdraw its financial support from the Padma Bridge. They thought that WB's retreat from the project would bar Bangladesh from implementing the project. Saying that she virtually gave up reading the two newspapers after her release from captivity and particularly taking office in 2009, as the two news papers never publish any report without pinching her. "I don't read these newspapers in fear of losing my confidence because of their ill reporting," she said adding, "however, truth can not be suppressed forever and it has been revealed by the Star editor himself in a recent television talk show and publication of DGFI supplied report without mentioning any source. Formal trial begins Journos driven out during witness deposition Staff Reporter : The formal trial of much-talked-about Narayanganj seven-murder cases has begun. A Narayanganj court started recording deposition in the cases on Monday with the deposition of a witness in one of the two cases filed over the gruesome murders. Judge Syed Enayet Hossain of Narayanganj District and Sessions Judge's Court started recording the deposition. Bijoy Kumar Paul, complainant of a case and son-in-law of slain lawyer Chandan Kumar Sarker, testified for two and a half hours before the court on the first day. The court adjourned the deposition until March 7 following a petition filed by Khokan Saha, counsel for prime accused Nur Hossain and sacked RAB officials Lt Col Tareque Sayeed and Lt Commander MM Rana. The lawyer filed the time-petition, mentioning the reason that they were yet to collect necessary documents to cross-examine the witness. The court will record the deposition in the other case filed by Selina Islam Beauty, wife of slain Narayanganj panel mayor Nazrul Islam, on March 3. Meanwhile, few minutes before the judge took his seat, Public Prosecutor Wajed Ali Khokon told everybody present in the courtroom to leave the courtroom that as per a court directive none but the complainants, accused, lawyers and court officials concerned was necessary to remain present there. Later, all the journalists present there were driven out from the courtroom, reports a Correspondent from Narayanganj. Earlier in the morning, 23 accused including Nur Hossain, Tareque Sayeed and MM Rana, were produced before the court. Counsel for 22 of them cross-examined Bijoy Kumar Paul after his deposition. The court was scheduled to start recording witnesses' statements on February 25 but failed, as Tareque was not produced before the court on that day. Following this, the court had asked the jail authorities to explain Tareque's absence, adjourned the court proceedings for half an hour and ordered the public prosecutor to find out why he was not in the court. Tareque was the commanding officer of RAB-11 in Narayanganj at the time when the incident took place. He and two other RAB officials were sacked after their alleged involvement in the crime surfaced. Tareque is currently at Dhaka Medical College Hospital where he was admitted with "back pain" on January 3. He has been undergoing "treatment" there at the Neurosurgery Department. On April 27 in 2014, Nazrul Islam, his three aides and driver were kidnapped allegedly by a team of RAB-11 from Fatullah of Narayanganj. Senior lawyer Chandan Sarker and his driver were also picked up around the same time, as they witnessed the abduction of Nazrul and others. Later, all the seven bodies were found floating in the Shitalakkhya river. Days after the murders, Nazrul's father-in-law Shahidul Islam alleged that some officials of RAB-11 killed Nazrul in exchange for Tk. 6 crore from Nur Hossain. Two cases were filed in this connection -- one by Nazrul's family and the other by Chandan's family. Detectives pressed charges against 35 people in each case. Of them, 23 accused, including the three sacked RAB officials, are now in jail. Twelve others, eight of them RAB men, are on the run. Foreigner, 3 others put on remand Court Correspondent :A Dhaka court on Monday placed four persons including a foreign national to a five-day remand each in a case filed for swindling about Tk 2,200 crore from the state-run Basic Bank.The accused were produced to the court seeking fresh remand for eight days on completion of the previous six-day remand. Magistrate Abdullah Al Masud of the Chief Metropolitan Magistrate Court of Dhaka granted the fresh remand rejecting their bail pleas. The Anti-Corruption Commission (ACC) will interrogate Sheikh Abdul Hye Bacchu, former chairman of Basic Bank Limited in connection with the swindling. Replying to a query, they said although the ACC did not file case against the former chairman of Basic Bank, if the ACC probe finds his involvement in the loan scam, the charge sheets will include his name. In September 2015, the ACC filed 54 cases against 56 people, including bank officials. Almost inexplicably though, they did not include the key graft suspect, former chairman Sheikh Abdul Hye Bacchu.According to an inquiry of Bangladesh Bank, about Tk 4,500 crore was swindled out from Basic Bank during last six years when Sheikh Abdul Hye Bachhu was the chairman.Of the accused, Piotr Szczepan Mazurek was born in Ukraine and had later obtained German nationality. The three Bangladeshi accused persons are: Moksed alias Maksud, Rezaul Karim alias Shahin and Refaz Ahmed alias Rony. The trio are also City Bank officials. All the four accused have been arrested in connection with stealing money of card holders by copying card data from ATM booths. `Better life` still allures them! Staff Reporter :Despite threat of falling into death traps, many Bangladeshi workers being allured of a better life by human traffickers are still adventuring to reach Malaysia through illegal routes. Even nine months after the news of mass graves broke out in Wang Kelian, Perlis, the illegal route leading to Malaysia via Thailand, still the elements are active in alluring the ill-fated fortune hunters from different poor countries, including Bangladesh. According to Malaysian-based newspaper The Star, some unfortunate victims have recently been spotted in the country's hilly forests. Local have also witnessed a small group of foreigners who look like Bangladeshis or Rohingyas in the forest near the illegal routes. In the wake of discovery of mass graves of Bangladeshi and Burmese Rohingya migrants and suspected human trafficking along Malaysia's border with Thailand in May last year, the both Thailand and Malaysian governments launched massive crackdowns against the traffickers. Apart from the Thailand and Malaysia, the Bangladesh government also took all out measures to combat the human trafficking and launched crackdowns across the country to net the human traffickers.During the drive, some traffickers were arrested and some also killed in shoot out with the members of law enforcing agencies. The lane starts deep inside the forest behind a rubber tree estate in Felcra Lubuk Sireh. It takes an hour and a half to get there on a motorcycle. Walking there will take four hours.Then, it's a leisurely 45-minute walk. After that, you are in Thailand, in a village known as Ban Telok.Nine months after the crackdown on human trafficking camps along the border, illegal routes - commonly known as lorong tikus - are still open and being actively used.A villager, who wished to be known only as Ahmad, led The Star's team to the route which he deemed to be the most active one. He warned against using the route as no one would know "who or what was waiting on the other side".In October last year, it was reported that a Thai man in his 40s was shot while trying to enter Malaysia via Chuping.He was found by General Operations Forces (PGA) personnel and the Malaysian police believed he was shot by a homemade pistol based on the slug retrieved. "Most Rohingyas who enter our country illegally use this path. As this place is so deep in the forest, there is no fencing or border walls here, just stone border markings. "We discovered a few Rohingya bodies a few months before the news broke last year about the mass graves in Wang Kelian. "We even led the police to the spot where they brought out the bodies. I think they might have died because they were too hungry and tired," added Ahmad, who works in the rubber estate.He said there were three other illegal forest crossings that he had heard of, but he was unsure of how to get there.Ahmad also said that he had seen foreigners ("they look like Rohingyas or Bangladeshis") walking in a small group in the forest. "They hide if they hear sounds of people nearby. We don't dare to confront them because they might be aggressive," he added. Ahmad's last encounter with them was last year before the news of the mass graves broke out in May. After that, he had not encountered any foreign faces in the forest.Perlis police chief Senior Asst Comm Shafie Ismail also believes there are illegal pathways between Thailand and Malaysia. He said there were many Thai nationals who come over to Perlis to work as rubber tappers and a number of them cross the border illegally.SAC Shafie said there were illegal routes deep in the forest behind Felcra Lubuk Sireh and the border fencing in Felcra Chuping was also cut open several times at different locations.He assured that the Perlis border was secure from any intrusion or any cross-border crimes. "I can guarantee the safety of Perlis and also that there are no other new human trafficking camps here besides the ones discovered last year. "Besides having personnel patrolling 24 hours, we also have 350 PGA patrolling the Malaysian-Thailand border in Perlis. "We also use drones to monitor the border. We are aware of the illegal routes and are monitoring them. "Illegal immigrants or human traffickers cannot use the routes with our increased enforcement. "But we are not ruling out the possibility that their modus operandi might have changed and that they may be coming over in smaller groups of two people instead of larger groups," he said. SAC Shafie said a total of 2,329 illegal immigrants were arrested last year, of which 1,156 were Myanmar nationals, 548 Bangladeshis and the rest Indonesians and Thais.During the Ops Wawasan Khas in May last year, the police found 139 graves around 28 transit camps abandoned by human trafficking syndicates in Wang Burma hill and Wang Perah hill here.The skeletal remains of 106 victims were found and have been buried in a mass grave in Kampung Tualang, Pokok Sena, near Alor Setar. Mintoo granted bail in 7 cases Court Correspondent :The Chief Metropolitan Magistrate (CMM) Court of Dhaka on Monday granted bail to BNP Chairperson's Adviser Abdul Awal Mintoo in seven cases filed with Ramna, Shahbagh and Paltan police stations on different dates. Magistrate Khurshid Alam of the CMM Court granted bail to the BNP leader in 2 cases filed with Ramna and Shahbagh police stations when he surrendered to the court with bail pleas.Besides, Magistrate Md Maruf Hossain of the CMM Court granted him bail in 5 other cases filed with Paltan Police Station.The seven cases were filed for carrying out vandalism, sabotage and obstructing police from discharging their duty in 2014 and 2015. JnU BCL unhappy over formation of new central body Hasan Mahmud : Leaders and activists of Jagannath University unit Bangladesh Chhatra League (BCL) have been expressing their resentment after the declaration of the new central committee since they do not have any important post in the committee. The leaders of the unit have got only eight nominal posts where there is no important position, though it is one of the top 'district units' (4th of BCL). On the contrary, the leaders of DU have obtained over two hundred posts and convict Afzal Guru. He submitted videos in which students allegedly shouted anti-national slogans. The court took cognizance of his petition and directed police to register a complaint and investigate, which we have done today. We will verify the proof that the advocate has submitted and take legal opinion whether we can investigate it or not because the videos submitted as proof are of JNU in New Delhi, which is beyond our jurisdiction,'' DCP Iqubal said. Denying any political affiliations, Goud said the videos shown on news channels had left him agitated. "I have been told that the videos are genuine and that some students really chanted slogans that they will cut the country into pieces. How can Rahul Gandhi and other leaders sit alongside such student leaders and express support to them when they chant anti-national slogans? I am a citizen of this country and I want to know what is going on at JNU and why these leaders visited the students. That is why I filed the petition." Reacting to the case against Rahul Gandhi, the Congress said it wouldn't stop it from remaining "the torch-bearer against oppression and suppression" by the BJP. "Sadly, the BJP and its allies want to suppress every voice that speaks against their repressive anti-Dalit and anti-poor policies. From Rohith Vemula to Rahul Gandhi, everyone who raises an opinion against suppressing of opinion by the Modi government is branded anti-national," chief party spokesperson Randeep Surjewala said. Many accused in graft cases 'go unpunished' UNB, Dhaka : Many graft suspects go off the hook in the cases filed by the Anti Corruption Commission (ACC) as it fails to produce witnesses in courts, says a senior official of the national anti-graft agency. "We hardly get the expected results in graft cases for various reasonsthe ACC has no prosecution unit. In many cases, it fails to present witnesses before courts," ACC director general Dr Shamsul Arefin told its monthly press briefing at its media centre on Monday. Official data show that 10 graft cases were settled in courts in January this year. Among the cases, the accused were convicted in only three cases while graft suspects got released in the remaining seven cases. According to ACC officials, retirement of their officials is one of the reasons why the anti-graft body is unable to produce witnesses in courts. After retirement, ACC officials return to their respective home districts and they ultimately show little interest to appear in courts as witnesses, creating an impediment towards proving allegations against accused in courts. Gulshan-1 DCC market evicted UNB, Dhaka : Rajdhani Unnayan Kartripakkha (Rajuk) on Monday conducted a drive at DCC Market in the city's Gulshan-1 area demolishing its extended part raised illegally. During the drive, led by a Rajuk magistrate, other illegal structures, signboards and billboards at the market were also removed. Inspector (investigation) of Gulshan Police Station Salahuddin Miah said the drive began around 10am and continued till 4pm. He said, no untoward incident was reported over the drive as additional police were deployed in the area. . NEWS AND VIEWS THAT IMPACT LIMITED CONSTITUTIONAL GOVERNMENT "There is danger from all men. The only maxim of a free government ought to be to trust no man living with power to endanger the public liberty." - - - - John Adams The Gay Courier has been established to provide news, information and info on, from and about the gay community, and other social events and happenings from around the world, from all sorts of sources, to all who are interested in this news, information and info! The postings are as is, and all copyrights and or ownerships are and remain with the original copyright-holder and or owner! One day I will write the definitive book on things I wished I had known at a younger age so I wouldn't have had to make all the mistakes... If you are looking for the new Immoral Minority posts, you should know that they can be found here at our new home Please stop by to get caught up on politics, join the conversations, or simply check out the new digs. Monet rahapelien ystavat ovat viime vuosina loytaneet netticasinot ja olleet ihmeissaan. Verrattuna kotimaisen Veikkauksen kivijalkarahapeleihin puhutaan aivan eri tason palautusprosenteista ja lisaksi pelaaminen on aarimmaisen helppoa ja turvallista. Netticasinoiden maara on tana paivana todella suuri ja niita loytyy jokaiseen lahtoon, suurin ongelma aloittelevalla pelaajalla onkin tehda valinta siita, minka netticasinon valitsee. Kaikkien netticasinoiden mainospuheet naet lupaavat kauniita asioita ja niiden lapinakeminen on tietysti tarkeaa. Nyrkkisaantona voidaan kuitenkin jo kattelyssa todeta, etta jos valitsemasi netticasino on lisensoitu ETA-alueella, sen kanssa ei tule olemaan ongelmia, ellei niita itse jarjesta. Kay tutustumassa parhaisiin netticasinoihin osoitteessa www.ilmaiskierroksia.info! Ensimmainen nyrkkisaanto on siis varmistaa, etta valitsemallasi netticasinolla on ETA-alueen lisenssi. Suurimmassa osassa tapauksista se on Maltan eli MGA:n lisenssi. Myos Viron, Englannin ja Gibraltarin lisensseja nakyy ja naissa valvonta on jopa Maltaa tiukempaa. Lopputulema on kuitenkin se, etta ETA-alueen lisenssi takaa suomalaisille verovapaat voitot seka sen, etta niita valvotaan kontrolloidusti. Maailmalla on iso nippu Curacaon lisenssilla toimivia netticasinoita ja niistakin suurin osa on laadukkaita. Ne eivat kuitenkaan ole suomalaisille asiakkaille verovapaita, joten emme suosittele niita. Tana paivana markkinoille on ilmaantunut paljon ETA-alueella toimiva netticasinoita ilman rekisteroitymista. Jos tarkoitus on vain pelata yksittaisia pelikertoja, on varsin helppo suositella naita. Netticasinot ilman rekisteroitymista tarjoavat palvelun tunnistautumisen verkkopankin avainlukulistan avulla ja saman palvelun kautta tapahtuvat talletukset ja mahdolliset voittojen nostot silmanrapayksessa. Normaaleihin netticasinoihin pitaa asiakkaan rekisteroitya, tehda talletukset ja tunnistautua dokumenttien avulla. Tama on lisenssiehtojen mukainen kaytanto, eika kovinkaan monimutkainen, mutta silti monet asiakkaat haluavat yksinkertaista ja nopeaa palvelua. Toki normaalit netticasinot tarjoavat usein asiakkailleen laadukkaita talletusbonuksia ja erilaisia kampanjoita, joten kannattaa tarkkaan punnita, kumman ratkaisun valitsee. Kannattaa myos muistaa, etta tunnistautuminen tehdaan vain kerran, joten mikaan jatkuva riippakivi se ei ole. Suomalaiset asiakkaat ovat netticasinoille tarkeita, joten kaikilla vahankin laadukkailla netticasinoilla on suomenkieliset sivut seka suomenkielinen asiakaspalvelu suomenkielisyys kannattaakin ottaa netticasinoa valittaessa nyrkkisaannoksi. Vaikka tana paivana englanninkielisyys on harvoille ongelma, on suomenkielisten netticasinoiden maara niin valtava, etta suosittelemme niiden kayttoa. Rahansiirrot ovat tana paivana niin hyvassa mallissa, etta niiden kanssa tuskin tulee mitaan ongelmia. Kolme tarkeinta segmenttia: Suomalaiset verkkopankit, luottokortit (Visa, Mastercard) seka nettilompakot (Skrill, Neteller) loytyvat jokaisesta laadukkaasta netticasinosta. Viime vuosien trendiksi noussut verkkokauppa on kehittanyt rahansiirrot niin laadukkaiksi ja nopeiksi, etta niiden suhteen ei ole enaa vuosiin ollut ongelmia. Luonnollisesti netticasinot kayttavat naita samoja palveluita ja hyotyvat kehityksesta. Naiden isojen linjojen jalkeen netticasinon valintaan vaikuttavat luonnollisesti tarjottavat tervetuliaisbonukset uudet asiakkaat saavat tana paivana kovan kilpailun myota merkittavia etuja netticasinoilta ja niita kannattaa luonnollisesti vertailla. Erilaiset talletusbonukset, ilmaiskierrokset seka ilmaiset pelirahat tuovat suuriakin rahanarvoisia etuja ja niiden vertailu on ehdottomasti kannattavaa. Myoskaan useampien tilien avaaminen ja tervetuliaistarjousten kayttaminen ei missaan nimessa ole huono idea. Kun edella mainitut asiat ovat mieleisia ja vaihtoehtoja on vielakin jaljella, mennaan jo nyansseihin. Toki pelivalikoima on yksi kriteeri, mutta taman paivan netticasinoissa tamakin asia on paasaantoisesti varsin samanlainen. Toki useamman samantasoisen netticasinon vertailussa kannattaa yleensa valita se, jossa on eniten peleja tarjolla. Vaikka omat suosikit loytyisivatkin useammasta, voi tulevaisuudessa mielenkiinto nousta joihinkin muihin peleihin ja silloin on tietysti mukavampaa, etta ne loytyvat valikoimista. Viimeisena voidaan nostaa esiin kaytettavyys joidenkin netticasinoiden sivut ovat vilkkuvia, valkkyvia ja epakaytannollisia. Omaan silmaan ja kaytettavyyteen sopiva sivusto on luonnollisesti aina se paras valinta. Tarjonta netticasinoissa on tana paivana valtava ja jokaiselle loytyy varmasti se oma netticasino onnea matkaan! Pre-purchase property inspection is a relatively new thing in the United Kingdom. Its not something that most people have heard about, but it has become increasingly popular over the last few years with the rise in property prices and increased demand for high quality homes. What are the benefits of pre-purchase building inspection? What can you expect to find out when you pay someone else to inspect your home before you buy it? And what should you look for during an inspection? Many people want to know if theyre buying a house thats been well maintained or if its had any serious problems. If youve found a place on the market that seems attractive, but then discover some issues after moving in, you may not be as excited about buying it as you thought you were. Its important to do your due diligence when looking at properties. A lot goes into making a property appealing to potential buyers, from the landscaping to the flooring to the kitchen appliances. The same applies when inspecting a property there are many things that need checking over to make sure everything is running smoothly. Here are some of the benefits of performing a pre-purchase inspection: You get to see exactly what will happen to your money When you go shopping for a new car, youll probably be shown several different models. You might even be shown one that looks like a great value, but doesnt fit around all of the extra features that you want. When it comes time to actually buy the vehicle, however, you wont have seen how your money will be spent on it once you drive it off the showroom floor. Likewise, when you shop for a new home, you dont really know what youre getting yourself into until you move in. In order to get a feel for whether the home youre considering is what you want, you normally have to spend quite a bit of time inside it. This allows you to learn more about everything that youre going to be spending your hard-earned cash on. A pre-purchase building inspection gives you much the same kind of experience without having to spend thousands of dollars. Since youre paying for the service, you can expect to see exactly what youre paying for, instead of just seeing a vague idea of what you might end up with. You find out about potential major repairs Some buildings are very expensive to maintain, which means that owners often neglect them for the sake of saving money. While youre paying for a building inspection, youre also paying for a professional who knows how to spot signs of trouble and repair work that needs doing. If you notice that a particular area of your new home needs fixing right away, you can call in an expert to take care of it quickly. If you find that theres something wrong with your boiler, you wont have to wait weeks for a plumber to come over and fix it. Instead, youll have access to a solution immediately. You can save hundreds of pounds by finding out about potential problems early on One of the biggest expenses when you first buy a home is the cost of moving in. Many people dont realize this until its too late. Buying a home involves not only paying for the actual house, but also for moving costs, furniture, and other items that have to be moved along with the home. Having a good idea ahead of time of what youre likely to encounter can help you avoid these kinds of costs. If you know youll need to replace the plumbing system, for example, youll be able to put together a budget for the expense and plan accordingly. You can protect your investment by finding out if the homes been well cared for While there are plenty of people who think that houses always look better when theyre newly built, youd be surprised at how well maintained older residences can still look nice. Sometimes, though, those homes need some additional maintenance to keep them looking their best. This could involve repairs that arent so noticeable or small improvements that you wouldnt consider otherwise. Even worse, some houses have fallen into disrepair without anyone noticing. This is why having a professional perform a building inspection prior to purchasing a home is such a big benefit. Not only will it give you insight into the state of the property, but it will also give you peace of mind knowing youre not getting taken advantage of. As long as youre aware of the potential pitfalls, youll have less reason to worry about the state of your new home. You can use information gathered during a building inspection to negotiate a lower price If youre worried about buying a home because you suspect that it may need extensive renovation work, you may already have a rough idea of how much work youll need to do to bring it up to scratch. That knowledge can come in handy if you decide to buy the home. You can use all of the details that you gather during a building inspection to present a realistic picture of what the home is worth to prospective buyers. If a potential buyer thinks that the home is worth more than what you paid for it, you can try negotiating a lower price. You can sell your home faster and for more money If you decide to list your home on the market soon after buying it, youll need to price it accurately in order to attract buyers. But if youve already done a thorough building inspection, youll know exactly what work is needed and what the current market conditions are. In other words, youll be able to make a more accurate estimate of the amount of money youve invested in the home and how much its worth. If you find that youre selling your house for close to its full market value, you can use this information to convince the potential buyer that your home is worth the asking price. Even if youre planning to stay in the home for a while before you decide to sell, the fact that you did a thorough building inspection will give you more confidence when listing it. Prospective buyers will know exactly what theyre paying for. Your home will hold its value longer As mentioned earlier, the value of a home depends heavily upon the condition of the building itself. If your home is in bad shape, potential buyers wont be interested in buying it. On the other hand, if youve performed a thorough building inspection and know what sort of repairs are necessary, you can offer your prospective buyer a compelling reason to invest in your property. When you buy a home, youre essentially agreeing to have it inspected periodically to ensure that it stays in top shape. Not only does this allow you to avoid expensive repairs down the road, but it can also increase the value of your home. You can make smart decisions about property investments Buying real estate isnt as simple as just driving a couple of minutes to pick up a house. There are lots of considerations involved, ranging from location to cost. The same is true when youre investing in property. If you find a house that meets all of your requirements, youll want to make sure that you have a solid understanding of where it stands with regards to the rest of the market. If you havent spent enough time researching the area, you could inadvertently end up with a bad deal. There are lots of resources available online that can help you determine the overall level of competition in your area. They can also help you figure out if there are any properties that meet your requirements that you didnt know about. If you own rental property, you can use the information to identify tenants who might cause damage If you own rental property and youve noticed that certain tenants consistently cause damage, you can use the results of a building inspection to identify them. You can then contact them directly to let them know that youre watching them closely and that you dont appreciate the problem theyre causing. They might start taking better care of their homes, which would be good news for everyone. It could also be the case that youll find out that theyre responsible for previous damages that werent caught during a previous visit. You can make smarter decisions about hiring contractors If youve hired contractors to build or repair your home, you might want to ask them for references. However, unless you perform a thorough building inspection, you might not know exactly what to look for. For instance, maybe you only checked the roof for leaks or the walls for cracks. You might not have looked underneath the foundation for anything that could cause a future issue. By performing a building inspection, you can ensure that you hire reputable contractors who will be trustworthy with your money. You can avoid purchasing a home thats in poor condition Of course, the main benefit of structural inspections perth is that it helps you avoid purchasing a home thats in poor condition. Before you make the decision to buy a home, you should do whatever you can to find out about the state of the building. You can also ask your realtor about what sorts of inspections are typically recommended. Some agents say that its standard practice to check the heating system, the roof, the electrical wiring, and the floors. Others will tell you that they recommend that you check the entire structure. Either way, if you choose to hire an inspector, youll find out exactly what needs to be fixed and how much it will cost to do so. As a result, it can be concluded that a pre-purchase building inspection is highly important for the buyers because it provides transparency regarding the current conditions of the structure. Additionally, the building owner is made aware of any upgrades or repairs that are required, which could lead to a fair deal throughout the purchasing and selling process. I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me. -Jesus -John 14:6 Rent To Own Homes San Antonio A vow to disrupt san antonios affordable housing system; 3 bed 2.0 bath 2,000 sqft. So how does rent to own homes work in san antonio and other parts os tx? 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Frustration may build up and you may end up taking your sexual stress out on your partner. If you are able to adopt sextoy in a timely manner, you can get rid of those problems. I want to have more exciting sex than Im having now. I want more variation in masturbation I want to get even stronger pleasure than I do on my own. If you have any of these problems, please stay with me until the end. What is sex toys for Indian? Sextoy, as the name implies, is a toy used during sex and masturbation. It is a generic term for vibrators, Egg-vibrators, Electric massagers, dildo, handcuffs and condoms. They are used to make regular sex more exciting or to make masturbation more pleasurable. Because sextoy is very stimulating, it can help you to get rid of the problems and frustrations of being in a rut of sex with your partner for a long time, or if you are unhappy with the lack of pleasure in sex with your partner. The ability to satisfy your desires with movement, texture, and size, which cannot be done by a normal human being, can help you to be satisfied with sex and, as a result, improve your relationship with your partner. It is also said to help improve sexual dysfunction (inability to get an erection or ejaculate) and difficulty in feeling during sex (insensitivity), which is attracting more attention than in the past. In recent years, the demand for sextoy has increased due to the spread of smartphones and the Internet and the increasing number of people using online shopping. Even those who are concerned about the appearance of sextoy (and find it difficult to purchase) can now easily obtain it by using mail order. In the case of online shopping, most of the stores have taken steps to ensure that the contents of the products delivered to you are not revealed, so you can purchase them without your family members knowing. Until a while ago, you had to go to the store where the adult goods were sold to buy them, so it was quite a hurdle to overcome. Also, many people may have an image that sextoy is somehow embarrassing to own. But nowadays, some of them are so stylish and cute that you cant believe they are sextoy at a glance. More and more people are using them for travel and outdoor use because they are not too bulky and are suitable for carrying around. Sextoy situation in India Before introducing the recommended sextoy for Indians, lets talk about one of the sextoy situations in India in recent years. In India, due to the high concentration of population, the following six cities have particularly high sales of sextoy in India. Mumbai Kolkata Bangalore Delhi Chennai Hyderabad These cities account for roughly 70 percent of sextoy sales in India. In the future, the percentage of sextoy use will gradually increase in other cities in India as well. If you never talk about sextoy publicly, that girl in your neighborhood might be a sextoy user too. If you are interested in sextoy, you dont have to suppress your desire for it. What are Sextoys for beginner? Among all sextoys, sextoy for beginners are vibrators, dildo, masturbators, Sex Lubricants, and condoms. Sex Lubricants and condoms, which are familiar to people who have had sex, are also a great beginners sextoy. I will explain the details of each toy later, but there are many sextoy products that are painful to use and can only be used after some anal expansion. I assume that the Indian readers of this article are people who have not had much experience with sextoy. If such people use professional sextoy suddenly, they are at risk of injury or trauma. Therefore, to introduce sextoy, you need to start with a beginners version and gradually become familiar with it. Advantages of using sextoy for Indians There are three advantages of using sextoy for Indians You can masturbate in a wide variety of ways. Can have stimulating sex Can develop new sexual zones If you try to masturbate with your own fingers or hands, it tends to be a pattern. However, with sextoy, you can easily masturbate in a variety of ways. You will definitely be fascinated by the attraction of new stimulation. Also, your daily sex life will be more exciting than ever. There are many things in sextoy that are visually stimulating and give you a strong and intense feeling of pleasure. This allows you to see your partners promiscuity in a way that you wouldnt normally see it. When you are in a relationship, sex with your partner may become a pattern, but it can also eliminate these problems. It can also lead to the development of new sexual zones (which is the training of sexual stimulation to allow you to feel orgasms). For more information on the development of new sexual zones, see the following articles [Women's Erogenous Zone]How to find and develop, 7 hidden sexual zones !![In India] In this issue, we will dissect the female erogenous zone! ..." Many of you may be like that. Men, in particular, shou... Thus, the use of sextoy can only be a good thing for the men and women of India. Sextoy for beginner men in India So, lets continue with the recommended goods for Indian sextoy beginners. For ease of understanding, we will introduce them by gender. Lets start with the men! The following five goods are recommended for novice Indian sextoy men Masturbator Cock rings Love Doll Sex Lubricants Toys for the prostate Lets check each one in detail. Masturbator The masturbator is a sextoy for men that elaborately reproduces a womans vagina, mouth, and anus, and is one of the most popular sextoy products. It is used by men to masturbate, and it is popular because it provides stronger stimulation and pleasure more easily than using hands. Most are made of good quality silicone, and their softness is something that cannot be achieved with ones own hands. They can provide stronger pleasure than a real womans vagina, so be careful not to overuse them. (You wont be able to have an orgasm in a womans vagina anymore.) Again Male masturbators are a wonderful toy. I do not need any favourite timing, bothersome bargaining. You do not have to worry too much. Revolutionize your masturbation time! ! ! Made in Japan is a wonderful kinky toy.#sextoysindia #SexToyIndia #Japanhttps://t.co/4k70QGzoTP pic.twitter.com/tRVdxTKPpa SEXToys India PR (@SextoysIndia) November 12, 2018 Some of them are disposable, while others can be washed and used over and over again, so its fun to buy a few to use depending on your mood. If you want to know more about masturbator, please click here Really pleasant male masturbation and how to do it Are you in a rut with your daily masturbation routine? I'm going to show you five ways men masturbate that you might ... [For Beginners] How to choose and use a male masturbator without fail Gentlemen.Have you ever used a masturbator? The person who sees this article is probably the one who has not experien... Cock Ring A cock ring is literally a ring-shaped sextoy that is worn on a mans penis. It maintains an erection by binding the penis with a ring of rubber and blocking blood flow. It is sometimes used as an accessory to be worn on the penis, and may be made of metal or plastic as well as rubber. In some cases, cock rings have parts or vibrators attached to them that stimulate the vagina, so they kill two birds with one stone, giving a woman pleasure while maintaining an erection. Cock rings are also sometimes used to treat erectile dysfunction. It can help with erectile dysfunction, where the penis doesnt get hard when you get an erection or doesnt last long when you try to insert it. Men who are prone to breakage or who are unsure of the hardness and size of their erections can use a cock ring to increase the size of their penis and maintain an erection for a longer period of time. Cock rings vary in price from around RS700 to over RS2000 with a vibrator function. Some of them do not fit your penis, so you should check the size of the cock ring before you buy. You should know the size of your partners or your own penis when it is erect. [Penis enlargement] What is a cock ring? Types and usage Cock rings can make your penis bigger and harder. It also makes sex with women more fulfilling and increases your sat... Love Doll Love dolls, also known as Dutchwives, are dolls with the appearance of a woman who can experience simulated sex. There are dolls that look like a woman, but they have no face and only have their breasts and lower torso cut off, and some dolls are so realistic that they can actually be mistaken for real women. Some expensive dolls can cost more than 1 million yen, and the quality of the doll is easily influenced by the price. The higher the price, the higher the quality of the doll will be, the closer it will be to the real woman, and the cheaper the doll will be, the less elaborate it will be, making it look like a real doll! Something is wrong! That is also true. You cant go wrong if you choose a balance between price and taste. There are stores that allow you to make custom-made love dolls, so you can create a girl of your choice. You can make a girl of your choice. You can start with inexpensive love dolls at first, and once you get used to it, you can try custom-made love dolls. If you want to know more about Love doll, please click here Thorough explanation of the charm of sex dolls! Have you ever heard of sex dolls that are used primarily for pseudo-sex purposes? It is a doll that is quite close to... Sex lubricants Sex lubricants are used as a substitute for lubricating fluid during sex or as a lubricant for men to use masturbator rules. It is not uncommon for women to have difficulty getting wet, depending on their physical condition, or to have difficulty getting wet due to their constitution. Forcing the penis into the vagina at such times can cause painful intercourse. There are various types of Sex Lubricants, some with a warming effect, some with a cooling effect, and some with a scent. Changing the Sex Lubricant used during play is recommended as a good sex accent. If you want to learn more about Sex Lubricants, click here. What is sex lubricant?Explain the difference and usage of each ingredient The word "sex toy" may seem like a hurdle to overcome, but lotion is actually one of the most familiar sex toys. Many... Toys for the Prostate Another sextoy for men is prostate toys. The most famous prostate toys include Enemagra, which was originally a prostate massager developed by an American urologist to treat an enlarged prostate line. Modern prostate toys are imitations of Enemagra that have spread as sextoy for men. Many people think of prostate toys as being used by gay men, but in fact they are often used by straight men. What is the prostate? The prostate is an organ found only in men. It is a walnut-sized organ located deep in the pelvis, just below the bladder, and its primary role is to protect and nourish sperm. You cannot touch the prostate gland from outside the body, but you can touch it by inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus. By inserting a finger or sextoy through the anus and touching the prostate and developing it, you can feel intense orgasms. Orgasms felt in the prostate are mainly dry orgasms, which are orgasms that do not involve ejaculation. (You can also feel orgasms with ejaculation through prostate stimulation.) The prostate is called the male G-spot, and dry orgasms can be much more intense than ejaculation. Therefore, men who are able to develop a prostate can become addicted to the pleasure. sextoy for beinner women in India The following are the recommended goods for Indian women who are new to sextoy. The following three are recommended for use by women who are new to sextoy. Vibrator. Dildo Electric Masserger Lets check out what each one is in detail. If you want to check out womens toys, click here. [BEST25]Sex Toys for Women in IndiaThat Can Help You Have an Orgasm There are many women who pretend to feel orgasm during sex. But don't worry, you don't have to pretend to feel orgasm... Vibrators A vibrator is a sextoy that vibrates with an Egg-Vibrator to provide stimulation and is often referred to simply as a vibrator. Some vibrate as well as rotate, and there are many variations of sextoy. It is quite a popular sextoy, and is well recognized by people who do not know much about sextoy. Its usage is similar to that of a massager, but it is more compact and easier to carry than a massager, and many of them look as cute as a lipstick or a macaroon, so they are popular among women. For a while, a famous influencer on twitter said, This is good! You may have heard of the topic of this article by introducing the recommended vibrators. Vibrators are great for women to use on their own, but they are also recommended for men who have difficulty satisfying women with sex. Since it is powered by electricity, it is far less tiring than moving your hands by yourself. This makes it easier to satisfy a woman with sex because you can caress her for longer than usual. Vibrators are mainly used on the female side, but they can also be used on men. When used on men, they are used to attack the nipples and glans, and in both cases it is recommended to wear a condom for hygiene reasons. Introducing how to use the vibrator, its purpose, and how to choose it! Vibrator uses the vibrations caused by the rotation of the motor to provide stimulation. It is one or two of the most... Dildo A dildo is a model sextoy made to mimic a male penis. It can be made of silicone, elastomer (think of it as a material similar to PVC), metal or glass. A dildo can be used by a man for his female partner during sex, or by a woman for masturbation to get pleasure from it. They are mainly inserted into women, but some can be used in the male anus as well. It is sometimes used synonymously with vibrators, but the vibrator is not the same thing as a vibrating device. A model of a penis that does not vibrate is a dildo. Some of them have suction cups that can be attached to the floor or wall so that you can enjoy realistic masturbation without using your hands. For fun, there is a dildo made in the shape of your partners penis. This one is also popular as a gift, and if youve been together for a long time and are having trouble finding a gift for your partner, you might want to pick one. To learn more about dildo, please click here. What is Dildo: Orgasms with Dildos for Men and Women A dildo is a model of a male organ that is used by women for masturbation and by men to stimulate the prostate gland. Th... Electric Masserger A Electric Masserger is a hand-held electric massager, also known as a handheld massager, and can usually be purchased at electronics stores. It was originally designed to relieve stiff shoulders and back pain, so the hurdle of buying one in a physical store is quite low. Many people may have seen or used it in some form or another, as it is often installed in leisure hotels. Such a massager is highly recommended for beginners because it is easy for women to get pleasure from it when they use it during masturbation. It is larger than Egg-Vibrator and vibrations are stronger than those of Egg-Vibrators and vibrators, so even just hitting the clitoris can give you a great deal of pleasure. For those women who have never had an orgasm during sex with their man, the massager may be a good way to get a feel for what it feels like to have an orgasm. It looks and feels like an electric massager, so you wont have to feel awkward if your roommate finds out. If you are in a rut of having sex with your partner, if you want to feel an orgasm through masturbation, or if you are thinking of using a sextoy, why dont you try it from a simple massager? To learn more about Electric Masserger, click here. What is a massager? Introducing types, selection methods, and usage Originally, the Magic-wand vibrator and the massage machine were sold as a home massage machine used for the back and th... How to choose a sextoy for Indian Now that weve covered the different types of sextoy, heres how to choose one. Especially if you are trying sextoy for the first time, pay attention to the following three points: Does the size fit you (the partner)? Does the size fit you (your partner)? Is the environment able to produce sound without problems? Price range First of all, the choice of size is quite important. Most sextoy are used against or inserted into the genitals, but the genitals are very delicate organs for both men and women. For this reason, using an inappropriate size may cause damage. Secondly, the environment should be able to produce sound without problems. Some sextoys not only wear, but also rotate and vibrate. Its easier to get pleasure from something that moves than something that doesnt, but the fact that it moves means that the internal rotors make some noise. If you live in a house with thin walls or if you have roommates, you may not be able to concentrate because of the noise, so it is best to choose one that is silent or has a low noise level. Especially in India, where many people live with their families, it is very important that you dont have to worry about sound when you use it. Finally, there is the price range. The price range of sextoy ranges widely, from around RS500 at the cheapest to RS10,000 or more at the highest. Its good to consider how much money you can afford and how much you want to buy. Do you want your family to not find out about sextoy? I live with my family and want to use sextoy without them finding out! If you are a man, you should buy a camouflage sextoy that does not look like a sextoy at first glance. For men, there are many masturbators that do not look like a sextoy, and for women, there are vibrators that only look like cosmetics. If you choose such a type, youll be safe in case your family members find out. How to buy sextoys in India The best way to purchase sextoy is through online shopping. For more information on how to purchase sextoy, please see the article below. Sextoy is one of them. Therefore, you can easily get sextoy in India by using online shopping. SexToysINDIA is a long established and stable sextoy store and you can have sextoy delivered to any place in India. They also offer cash on delivery, so those who are worried about shopping with a credit card do not have to worry. Of course, the latest security is in place, so your information will not be taken out when you use your credit card. To begin with, many people may be concerned about whether they are legally allowed to purchase sextoy. ikmAs it turns out, its not illegal. Right now, it is not open to the public because the Indian adult market is still in the development stage, but it will gradually spread from now on. Take advantage of sextoy and open the door to new pleasures and culture. Cautions for Indians using sextoy When using sextoy, keep the following three things in mind Keep sex toys clean Watch out for electrical leakage Beware of the heat generated by the body while using a sex toy As I mentioned earlier, many sextoy products are used for the delicate zone. Therefore, it is most important to keep the sextoy itself clean. It is very important to keep the sextoy itself clean, because if a slight scratch is created by friction, bacteria can enter and breed there. It is safe to wear a condom when using the masturbator, just in case. In addition, many sextoy devices are powered by a power source, so if they are not waterproof, there is a possibility of electric shock or malfunction due to wetness. Some may even develop heat during continuous use. If the fever becomes too much, you may get burned, so be careful. If you get a fever during use, stop driving the sextoy immediately and refrain from using it. You will enjoy sex more if you keep it safe and use it correctly. Summary What did you think? In this article, we have introduced the recommended sextoy for the beginners of sextoy in India. The sextoy market is growing rapidly in India and it will continue to grow steadily in the future. As India is a rather closed-minded country, it can be difficult to be open about ones sexual habits and values. However, being faithful to ones desires by properly dissolving ones sexual desire is very effective for ones physical and mental health. If this is your first time to learn about sextoy, or if you are interested in using sextoy, why not give it a try? Indian Sextoys for ur best! will introduce you to sextoy and other trivia about sextoy, sexuality, and sexuality for men and women. I want to read more! If you think its a great idea, please bookmark it. "Though defensive violence will always be 'a sad necessity' in the eyes of men of principle, it would be still more unfortunate if wrongdoers should dominate just men." - St. Augustine "A new idea is first condemned as ridiculous, and then dismissed as trivial, until finally it becomes what everybody knows." - William James "This is the real task before us: to reassert our commitment as a nation to a law higher than our own, to renew our spiritual strength. Only by building a wall of such spiritual resolve can we, as a free people, hope to protect our own heritage and make it someday the birthright of all men." -- Ronald Reagan A patriot must always be ready to defend his country against his government." -- Edward Abbey "A free people ought not only to be armed and disciplined, but they should have sufficient arms and ammunition to maintain a status of independence from any who might attempt to abuse them, which would include their own government." ~~~George Washington"Conservatives are enemies of the government. Liberals are enemies of the nation because they are not enemies of the government."Aristotle the Hun"Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass...it's about learning how to dance in the rain." ANONA nation that substitutes emotion and empathy for rational thought will eventually digress into the Dark Ages,Congressman Steve King (R-IA),Of all tyrannies, a tyranny sincerely exercised for the good of its victims may be the most oppressive. It would be better to live under robber barons than under omnipotent moral busybodies.The robber barons cruelty may sometimes sleep, his cupidity may at some point be satiated; but those who torment us for our own good will torment us without end for they do so with the approval of their own conscience.They may be more likely to go to Heaven for good intentions yet at the same time likelier to make a Hell of earth. This very kindness stings with intolerable insult. To be cured against ones will and cured of states which we may not regard as disease is to be put on a level of those who have not yet reached the age of reason or those who never will; to be classed with infants, imbeciles, and domestic animals.~ C. S. Lewis COLUMBIA A new accreditation for the Clemson University Veterinary Diagnostic Center is another step in preparation for the possibility of an outbreak of avian influenza or other animal diseases. The laboratory, which is charged with identifying strains of animal disease, has earned ISO 17025:2005 accreditation from the International Organization for Standardization, a level which certifies that the lab meets all international standards for testing, sampling and calibration. This is the first time the diagnostic center has achieved this accreditation and it speaks to the level of preparedness we have to address health emergencies, said Boyd Parr, state veterinarian and director of Clemson Livestock Poultry Health, the state regulatory agency of which the diagnostic center is a part. ISO 17025 accreditation is internationally recognized and is held in very high regard. Director Joe Hill and his staff worked very hard to achieve this milestone. The distinction comes as the agency is monitoring the state for HPAI, or highly pathogenic avian influenza. The disease is not currently a threat to people, but it can be lethal to poultry, having caused an estimated $1.2 billion in damage in 2015 just in Iowa alone. The U.S. Department of Agriculture spent $1 billion combating the virus last year in states as far-flung as Arkansas and Oregon. USDA Wildlife Services is monitoring wild waterfowl during their current migration and so far has not identified any HPAI with the Eurasian gene under the Atlantic flyway, which passes through South Carolina. Should HPAI emerge in the Atlantic flyway, the challenge in the Palmetto State will be to keep the virus from making the jump into domestic flocks. If the diagnostic center confirms the disease in South Carolina poultry, Clemson Livestock Poultry Health will work with producers rapidly to depopulate and safely dispose of infected flocks if necessary. Our first priority is prevention. Were working with producers to help them practice good biosecurity and monitor their birds closely for signs and symptoms of disease, Parr said. The Veterinary Diagnostic Center is an integral part of our disease surveillance system. In any suspicious case, we depend on the centers diagnosis so that we can provide the appropriate response swiftly. The importance of that surveillance system is also among the reasons Clemson Livestock Poultry Health has sought additional state funding to add more animal health inspectors and laboratory technicians as the states agricultural enterprises face an increasing array of pathogenic threats. The Clemson Veterinary Diagnostic Center is the only facility in the state that provides full necropsy services for livestock and poultry, which comprise the majority of South Carolinas agricultural income. Nowhere is that threat felt more keenly than in the poultry industry, which annually earns more than $12 billion in South Carolina more than a quarter of the total economic impact of the states agribusiness. There are more than 800 commercial poultry farms with more than 3,350 active houses in our state, Parr said. If HPAI does arrive, the potential impact is severe and the financial stakes are very high. Columbia-based Livestock Poultry Health is charged with protecting animal health, investigating disease and safeguarding consumers. Its lab and inspection responsibilities extend across more than 12,000 S.C. livestock and poultry farms. With the capability to perform necropsy, histopathology, bacteriology, virology and serology, the diagnostic center also assists veterinarians, animal industry and animal owners with livestock, poultry, companion animal and wildlife disease problems. The ISO accreditation it earned through Perry Johnson Laboratory Accreditation Inc. is used by labs in assessing their management systems for quality, administrative and technical operations. Laboratories, regulatory authorities and accreditation bodies also use it in confirming the competence of laboratories with which they work. CHARLESTON Clemson University researcher Brian Ward has revived the Souths ancestral peanut, successfully germinating nearly 1 million Carolina African runner seeds from just 20. The heirloom crop offers a niche but valuable product for South Carolina growers and restaurants. Last years heavy rains and floods cut yields dramatically, Ward said, but the long-lost African runners, once highly valued for their oil and distinctive taste, were nursed enough that theyre ready for larger tests on farms and at other Clemson research stations throughout the state. We have to validate its yield on a commercial scale. Thats what well be doing this year. Im feeling pretty confident, said Ward, a research specialist at the Clemson Coastal Research and Education Center near Charleston. Working with the Carolina Gold Rice Foundation, Ward was given what is considered to be half of the worlds remaining Carolina African runner peanut seeds three years ago. From those 20 seeds, he grew plants and harvested 1,250 seeds the first year and has continued to build supply the past three years. The nonprofit Carolina Gold Rice Foundation is a partnership of private industry, educators and agricultural researchers, including Ward and others at the Coastal REC. The group is focused on the restoration and preservation of heirloom grains with deep roots in South Carolina history. Chefs and growers regularly attend the foundations meetings. Noted Lowcountry Chef Forrest Parker of the Old Village Post House in Mount Pleasant credited the groups restoration of the Carolina African runner peanut and other heirloom grains with giving unique flavor to the Lowcountrys bustling tourism and hospitality industry. Theyre really at the forefront of agricultural research thats going on right now, and I think that continues to be one of the things that sets the dining scene in Charleston apart from many other places in the United States, said Parker, who was named a 2016 S.C. Chef Ambassador by Gov. Nikki Haley. and has prepared dishes with the first African runners harvested at the Clemson University Coastal REC. The reintroduction of the Sea Island red pea, the purple cane sugar thats been largely thought extinct thats now being returned to us in the Lowcountry; those are fantastic stories. Theyre fantastic flavors that people cant just experience elsewhere. Theyre going to have to come here. Sumter County grower Nat Bradford is one of five South Carolina farmers who will plant Carolina African runner seeds this year. Bradford previously worked with the Carolina Gold Rice Foundation on the restoration of his familys lost Bradford watermelon, which has been greatly received by South Carolina chefs. He also grows collards, okra, an ancient wheat called emmer and cover crops to harvest as what he calls green manure to be used as fertilizer for his prized Bradfords. Bradford, a Clemson alumnus, comes from a long line of South Carolina farmers but works as a landscape architect. While passionate about farming and horticulture, he had never farmed until the past few years. He said he could have never afforded the capital investment required of traditional row crop farming. The restoration of the Bradford watermelon and now the Carolina African runner peanut offers a niche product for a niche market and a real business opportunity for small-scale farmers. This heirloom food movement and reconnecting with historic foodways, this has given me an opportunity to break into agriculture, which I have loved since I was little, Bradford said. To have something that hasnt been grown in so many, many decades, to be part of the revival of lost foods and getting people excited about foods and their histories Im elated. In addition to harvesting seeds as part of the restoration process, Bradford plans to experiment with recipes, perhaps pairing his Bradford watermelon molasses with Carolina African runner peanuts in candy. Im sure well experiment with cold-pressing them for their oil. I think its an all-around good peanut. You can roast it. You can boil it. Were going to experiment with different products, too, Bradford said. Carolina Gold Rice Foundation Chairman and food historian David Shields found the last remaining African runner peanut seeds several years ago in a cold-storage facility at North Carolina State University. He requested seeds be sent to Ward. Ward received 20 seeds without knowing at that time they accounted for half of the worlds remaining African runner peanut seeds. One of the issues with these heirloom crops is they all were developed before industrial ag. Brian Ward is an expert in organic cultivation. Thats the closest thing to pre-industrial ag. The seed has not been grown out in any scale since the 1930s. Its only with Brian Wards work in the fields now that it is coming back, Shields said. Those old crops are drought-tolerant. They were produced when (petroleum-based) fertilizers werent added to the soils. They also had a fair amount of genetic diversity. Flavor is the heirloom peanuts greatest attribute, though, Shields said, and the reason chefs like Parker are paying attention. Ward said the peanut also could find a larger commercial market for its oil, which can be used for cooking or in peanut butter. The Carolina African runner peanut is about two-thirds the size of modern runner peanuts typically used in candies. The versatile nut dates to the 17th century, said Shields, a professor at the University of South Carolina. Southern chefs and cooks favored it for roasting and grinding into meal, and Carolina African peanut oil was so desirable it frequently was used in soaps and exported, Shields said. A delicacy, the nut began to slip from favor during the Great Recession, however, giving way to newer varieties with larger seeds. This year, African runner peanuts will be grown at five South Carolina farms, the Edisto Research and Education Center and the Pee Dee Research and Education Center to build seed supply and test the crops productivity in different environments. We just completed our third year with this peanut, Ward said. I think by our fifth year, you should start seeing it in restaurants and you might see some bigger growers plant it in a couple years. Its just got a really good flavor. Wards restoration of the Carolina African runner peanut was funded by the Carolina Gold Rice Foundation, Glenn Roberts and Anson Mills, and the South Carolina Peanut Board, a farmer-led organization dedicated to industry advancement. Clemsons Coastal Research and Education Center is one of five research farms across the state working to improve profitability of the states No. 1 industry, agriculture and forestry, which generates $41.7 billion for the states economy. In addition to private partnerships with groups like the S.C. Peanut Board, Anson Mills and the Carolina Gold Rice Foundation, the research stations receive investments from the state. What will continue to set the Charleston dining scene apart is the many contributions from Dr. Brian Ward or Dr. Merle Shepard (also of Clemson Universitys Coastal REC) or Dr. David Shields from the University of South Carolina; all of the research theyre doing through the Carolina Gold Rice Foundation into reintroducing and restoring these lost signatures of South Carolina history, Parker said. Issues of concern to people who live in the west: property rights, water rights, endangered species, livestock grazing, energy production, wilderness and western agriculture. Plus a few items on western history, western literature and the sport of rodeo... Frank DuBois served as the NM Secretary of Agriculture from 1988 to 2003. DuBois is a former legislative assistant to a U.S. Senator, a Deputy Assistant Secretary of Interior, and is the founder of the DuBois Rodeo Scholarship. We use cookies on our website to give you the most relevant experience by remembering your preferences and repeat visits. By clicking Accept, you consent to the use of ALL the cookies. Maros Sefcovic, the EU Commission Vice-President for Energy Union, is participating in the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting, being held in Baku Feb. 29. On his Twitter account, Sefcovic said he was glad to be back in Baku for the Southern Gas Corridor meeting, also underlining the key importance of the project to Europe's energy security. Sefcovic welcomed progress, achieved on this strategic infrastructure project over past year. The Southern Gas Corridor project envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijans Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. Azerbaijan will additionally supply 500 million cubic meters (mcm) of gas a year to Georgia, according to Rovnag Abdullayev, president of Azerbaijans state oil company SOCAR. Abdullayev made the remarks speaking to Trend at the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council in Baku Feb. 29. Previously, we supplied 800 mcm of gas a year to Georgia from the Shah Deniz, he said. We have managed to increase the supply through that route to 1.5 billion cubic meters (bcm), as well as to 1.5 bcm via a pipeline connecting the two countries in Azerbaijans Gazakh district. He also said that at present, there is an opportunity to additionally obtain 500 to 700 mcm of gas from the Shah Deniz consortium. We can use a part of that gas volume in Azerbaijan and supply another part to Georgia and Turkey, added Abdullayev. Earlier, we werent able technically to increase gas supply to Georgia, he said. We then talked to the Shah Deniz consortium. As a result, the supply in winter and summer periods will stand at 70 percent to 30 percent ratio (earlier 60 percent to 40 percent ratio). Georgias annual gas consumption stands at 2.4 bcm. Some 750 to 800 mcm of the gas is being supplied from the Shah Deniz field to Georgia annually, 1.4 bcm by SOCAR, and 200 mcm by Russia. Azerbaijan exports gas to Georgia via a pipeline linking the two countries in the Azerbaijani district of Gazakh. This pipeline can pump more than 2.5 bcm of gas a year. The Southern Gas Corridor project is of strategic importance for Italy, for the whole Europe and Azerbaijan itself, State Secretary of the Council of Ministers of Italy Claudio De Vincenti said in an exclusive interview with Trend in Baku Feb. 29. De Vincenti is on a visit to Baku to participate in the second meeting of ministers of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council. He said it is a very useful and important meeting, adding that representatives of all countries interested in the Southern Gas Corridor project, are participating in this event. Azerbaijan has a key role in Europes energy security, he said, adding that diversification of sources is the priority and from this point of view, the priority number one is the connection with the Azerbaijan gas. The Southern Gas Corridor is one of the priority energy projects for EU. It envisages transportation of 10 billion cubic meters of Azerbaijani gas from the Caspian Sea to Europe through Georgia and Turkey. At the initial stage, the gas to be produced as part of the Stage 2 of development of Azerbaijans Shah Deniz field is considered as the main source for the Southern Gas Corridor projects. Other sources can also connect to this project at a later stage. As part of the Stage 2 of the Shah Deniz development, the gas will be exported to Turkey and European markets by expanding the South Caucasus Pipeline and the construction of Trans-Anatolian Natural Gas Pipeline and Trans-Adriatic Pipeline. /Azernews/ By Nazrin Gadimova Azerbaijan achieved 6.6-percent growth in the volume of agricultural production in 2015. Bakhish Ahmadov, the head of the department of state support for agriculture at the Agriculture Ministry announced about this while talking to local media. Ahmadov added that the development of agriculture is one of the priority directions for the country. Azerbaijan, which is keen to diminish its dependence on the oil sector, sees the agricultural sector as a central direction in a bid to diversify the national economy. "Azerbaijan supports the development of agriculture at the state level, as well as implements various agricultural projects aimed at increasing volume of domestic production and expanding range of the goods, he stressed, reminding that such projects are source of new jobs. Ahmadov further said that the Ministry is taking different steps aimed at developing the agricultural sector in different regions of the country. Farmers are provided with high quality seeds and fertilizers, as well as supplies of materials and machinery for the regional agricultural departments improved. We were given a task to bring agriculture to the next level, he said, adding that last year was remembered with the expansion of the state support for agricultural development. Ahmadov noted that Agroleasing OJSC provides 40 percent discount on the initial cost of the agricultural equipment. Last year more than 4,000 technical equipment users managed to get the benefits worth $31.9 million. Over the last two years, about 7,000 units of farming plant mainly manufactured in Europe have been purchased and leased, he emphasized. As you know, the government provides subsidies for fuel and engine oil. The amount of subsidies granted for this purpose has been increased by 25 percent, Ahamov added. Moreover, the official said this year the government would begin to pay 40 percent of the modern irrigation systems value. "This support of the state is necessary because in this case, we will move from the traditional method of irrigation, which leads to salinization and disintegration of soil, to the modern method of irrigation that saves water resources," Ahmadov stressed. Also, the breeders will be given a subsidy in the amount of $63.8 for every calf born using artificial insemination, he added. Moreover, Azerbaijan is keen on developing electronic agriculture, an emerging field focused on the enhancement of agricultural and rural development through improved information and communication processes. E-agriculture involves the conceptualization, design, development, evaluation and application of innovative ways to use information and communication technologies in the rural domain, with a primary focus on agriculture. The agricultural sector is important in Azerbaijan not only to increase export potential, but also to restore and protect the countrys food security. Enjoying advantageous geographic location Azerbaijan has all possibilities to increase food security and production in the country. As a result of agrarian reforms carried out in Azerbaijan, the guarantees were made for the dynamic development of agriculture. /By Azernews/ By Aynur Karimova Tbilisi eyes an opportunity to agree on supply of more blue fuel from Azerbaijan, which is Georgia's main gas supplier with a specific weight of 74.9 percent of total gas imports. Georgian Energy Minister Kakha Kaladze believes that the two South Caucasus neighbors will reach an agreement on this issue "one of these days." Addressing the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Second Ministerial Meeting in Baku on February 29, Kaladze said that Georgia has been negotiating with a consortium of Shah Deniz for several months on increasing the volume of Azerbaijani gas supplies. "The matter rests in additional 400-500 million cubic meters per year," he said. Currently, Georgia is discussing with Gazprom the possibility for the Russian side to pay for gas transit to Armenia in money. We get 10 percent of Russian supplies volume and renew the contract every year, Kaladze said. Azerbaijan is Georgia's strategic partner, and we have established long-term friendly relations. Unfortunately, some forces use such moments to spoil relations between the two countries. But they wont succeed." Russian gas deliveries to Georgia are carried out only in the form of payment for its transit to Armenia, for which the country is supplied with 10 percent of total shipments. Gazprom supplied 300 million cubic meters of gas to Georgia in 2014. Daily gas consumption in Georgia exceeds 11 million cubic meters per day and about 2.5 billion cubic meters per year. Last year, the country imported 1.51 million tons of oil equivalent of natural gas in the amount of $314.3 million from Azerbaijan. On an annualized basis, the volumes of Georgian natural gas imports from Azerbaijan in terms of value increased by 9.4 percent, in quantitative terms by 127,170 tons of oil equivalent, or by 9.2 percent. Annual growth of the Georgian market is up to 10 percent or maximum 250 million cubic meters per year. With such a growth rate, gas consumption in the country will reach five billion cubic meters in the next 10 years. No doubt that this amount is not beyond the power of Azerbaijan, which enjoys huge gas resources. In this regard, Azerbaijan plans to additionally supply 500 million cubic meters of gas a year to Georgia. Previously, we supplied 800 million cubic meters of gas a year to Georgia from the Shah Deniz, said Rovnag Abdullayev, Head of Azerbaijan's state energy giant SOCAR. We have managed to increase the supply through that route to 1.5 billion cubic meters as well as to 1.5 billion cubic meters via a pipeline connecting the two countries in Azerbaijans Gazakh region. Currently, there is an opportunity to additionally obtain 500-700 million cubic meters of gas from the Shah Deniz consortium. We can use a part of that gas volume in Azerbaijan and supply another part to Georgia and Turkey, Abdullayev added. Earlier, Azerbaijan did not manage to technically increase gas supply to Georgia, he said. Taking the possibilities into account, SOCAR held negotiations with the Shah Deniz consortium and it was decided to increase the supply in winter and summer periods to 70 percent to 30 percent ratio (earlier 60 percent to 40 percent ratio). Azerbaijan supplies gas to Georgia via the Hajigabul-Gardabani pipeline with a gas pumping capacity of 6.5 million cubic meters per day. The second way carrying gas to Georgian consumers is the Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum (South Caucasus) Pipeline, through which the gas from the first stage of the Shah Deniz field is supplied to Georgia and a large proportion goes through its territory to Turkey. No talks on gas purchase from Iran Georgia, which enjoys significant transit potential for delivering hydrocarbon resources of the Caspian basin, has recently expressed interest in transiting Iranian blue fuel to Europe. Despite the fact that earlier Kaladze said his country can import Iranian gas either through Azerbaijan or through Armenia, he told Trend on February 29 that currently, Georgia is not in talks on the purchase of Iranian gas due to high prices. The Iranian gas prices are not competitive, so the issue on the purchase of Iranian gas can only be discussed in the future, Kaladze noted adding that in the future, transportation of Iranian gas will be possible through the territory of Azerbaijan. In mid-February, Alireza Kameli, the Head of the National Iranian Gas Export Company, said the Islamic Republic is considering a plan to export 200 million cubic meters of gas to Georgia in a course of seven months. He further said that Tehran and Tbilisi would consider signing a long-term deal, if they find a short-term gas deal economically justified. Iran plans to increase gas production to 1.1 billion cubic meters per day by 2018. /By Azernews/ By Amina Nazarli National dances is the essence of the culture of each people, the manifestation of their emotions, features, character and history. The national Azerbaijani dances are in the blood of every Azerbaijani, and no important festal occasion is held without these graceful movements, performed for hundreds of years at folk festivals and games, weddings and entertaining mock battles. The history of dancing art of Azerbaijan traces its roots from Stone Age. Drawings chiseled thousands of years ago into the rocks at Gobustan, located in 70 kilometers southwest of Baku, represent old Azerbaijani folk dances, which originally were ceremonial and hunting. Azerbaijans folk dances reflect the peoples pride, culture and spirit as well as the traditions and courage, which are so well known for the Caucasian peoples. If in many western cultures Felix Mendelssohn's "Wedding March takes the form of a wedding march, then in Azerbaijan its "Vagzaly" music and dance, which accompanies bride and groom to the wedding place. The most common and most ancient collective dance of the Azerbaijani people is "Yalli", whose roots go back to ancient times. Yalli is performed as a cheerful circular dance often accompanied with a choral singing. Dancers hold hands or shoulders of each other, and make rhythmic synchronous movement, raising and lowering their arms. The national clothes of Azerbaijan are still widely used in folk dances. In womens dances movements of the head, arms and upper body are dominated, and legs hidden under long dresses, get the feeling as if a dancer is floating while moving. Women dances are very soft and graceful with plasticity-smooth motion as in Vagzaly, Uzundere and Gyashyangi dances. The female dance performance is the personification of a real woman image with swan tenderness and if the dance is performed correctly, its looking like a swan floating in the national costume. Men's choreography, technically complex and rapid, is more accentuated on the legs, which is the main power of the male dances, and hands are relatively inactive. During the performance, dancers easily get on their toes and quickly sinks to the knees. Male dances are characterized by a fast rhythm, and expression of bravery, strength and temperament. The examples of men's dances are "Gaytagy" "Djengi", "Gazagy", "Khanchobany" and others. Azerbaijani folk dance expresses symbolically a wide variety of emotional themes, ranging from the hospitality and generosity to friendship and the unity of the people, from the high spirits of young girls to the courage of the young men. Folk dance has clear frameworks requiring to preserve the purity and originality of folk traditions, and an outstanding dancer, Afag Melikov strictly adheres to this concept, not allowing the slightest destruction of a unique national flavor. All the Caucasus dances are beautiful, but the most stunner is Azerbaijani dances both male and female, Melikova admitted. Renowned national dancer, Tarana Muradova fully devoted herself to folk dances believes that dance is a reflection of the soul, specificity and nature of the people. I studied dances of many peoples of the world and I can say that a variety of technical elements, emotion, dignity and the ability to show the beauty of the woman, her grace, tenderness that present in Azerbaijani dance, can be fined nowhere. I have performed in many countries and every time after the show people came to us expressing their admiration for the beauty of our dances and costumes, she said. One of the founders of modern Azerbaijani dance school was Alibaba Abdullayev, who played a significant role in bringing together the folk elements and dances. The basis of all Azerbaijani cultural dances are taken from Azerbaijans regions," says Tarana Muradova. Like every artist tries to depict what he/she saw on the canvas, and the choreographer is also trying to bring it on stage. Such dances as Shalaho, Tarakama, Sari Gelin, and Uzundere have the elements which were taken from the people and embodied in the choreographic style. /By Azernews/ By Amina Nazarli Would you like to plunge into the ancient history of Azerbaijan and get acquainted with the art, lifestyle, and culture of great Azerbaijani nation? Then you should necessarily visit the Museum of Archeology and Ethnography. This unique museum, located in front of the tower gates Gosha Gala Gapisi in the Icherisheher [Old City], is open on weekdays from 11am to 17pm for free to all lovers of history. The museum's exhibits allow to see a complete picture of the primitive peoples camps, living areas, settlements belonging to pastoralists and farmers, as well as gravestones, early urban culture, historical and material culture of the ancient states. The museum, founded in 1976, got a second wind after restoration in 2008-2009. Valeh Alakbarov, a fellow worker of the Scientific Exposition Department of the Archaeology and Ethnography Institute, said that the museums exhibits are updated every year thanks to artifacts discovered in Gobustan, Azikh cave, Kamiltepe, Geytepe, Karabakh mound as well as Soyugbulag mound, the most ancient burial mounds in the South Caucasus, and other sites of ancient people. The items found during excavations are cleaned, washed, dried, restored, inventoried and then transferred to the Museum. The scientific exposition department of the museum every year replaces about 1,000-2,000 exhibits. He went to add that to determine the age of the artifacts specialists use different methods including radiocarbon analysis, which is mainly conducted in France, the U.S., Turkey, Japan and Russia. Alekperov and his wife, who is a restorer, participate in the archeological diggings in Geytepe excavations for the sixth year. Sometimes we have to work under difficult conditions - at 40-degree summer heat. However, the passion of the work helps not to feel any heat or fatigue, Alakbarov explains. One of the ancient exhibits of the museum are the materials related to the Guruchay culture dating back to about 1.2 million years. The museum also keeps items of the Shulaveri-Shomutepin culture included in the UNESCO archaeological cultures list. Soon, the Museum plans to install monitors with detailed information near each showcase. The museum also plans to host an exhibition of items collected over the last two years. Holding of themed exhibitions, devoted to items found in several monuments of material culture are expected. Museums Director Farkhad Guliyev believes it will be great to expand the museum area. Then, in addition to the exhibits, there will be installed mannequins and models necessary for the reconstruction of a historical period. This will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the life of our ancestors. By mid-March, visitors will enjoy an opportunity not only to see the exhibits, but also view the movie showing the process of archaeological excavations. At the moment, all the necessary equipment is installed and montage work is underway, he said. Guliyev further said that many foreign tourists visit the Museum. During the major 1st European Games held in Baku last summer, more than 2,500 foreign guests got familiarized themselves with the museum, he said adding that the museum is very popular among visitors from France, Germany, the U.S. and Russia. Polands former presidents Aleksander Kwasniewski and Bronislaw Komorowski will attend the IV Global Baku Forum March 10, Azerbaijans State Committee on Work with Diaspora told Trend. Kwasniewski, who is a member of the Nizami Ganjavi International Center, also took part in the III Global Baku Forum. Aleksander Kwasniewski was president of Poland from 1995 to 2005, Bronislaw Komorowski - from 2010 to 2015. The IV Global Baku Forum, organized by the Nizami Ganjavi International Center and supported by the State Committee on Work with Diaspora, will be held March 10-11 in Baku. The forum will be titled Towards a Multipolar World. A number of issues of global concern, as well as the role of interreligious dialogue in conflict prevention, issues of migration, multiculturalism and integration, prospects for energy and global governance and other important issues will be discussed at the forum, and an exchange of views on finding solutions to these problems will be held. The second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting has started in Baku on Feb. 29. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev is participating in the meeting. The energy ministers and representatives of various organizations from the Southern Gas Corridor member-states are participating in the meeting as well. Maros Sefcovic, Vice-President for Energy Union, Berat Albayrak, Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Amos Hochstein, US Special Envoy for Energy Affairs of the US Department of State, Edmund Hosker, Director General for International Energy Issues of the UK Energy and Climate Change Department, Claudio De Vincenti, State Secretary of the Council of Ministers of the Italian Republic and others are also participating in the event. Three plenary sessions and a round table will be held as part of the meeting. Sefcovic and Natig Aliyev, Azerbaijani energy minister will make statements for the press. /By Trend/ The Governor of the U.S. State of Georgia Nathan Deal signed a statement recognizing the Khojaly massacre and honoring its innocent victims. This is the second statement by the Governor of Georgia on the Khojaly massacre. The first document was issued in 2015. Khojaly massacre was committed by Armenia's armed forces against Azerbaijani civilians in 1992. The massacre resulted in the killing of 613 civilians, including some 300 children, women and elderly. The Human Rights Watch called it the "largest massacre in the (Karabakh) conflict." The statement, which has been received by the Consulate General of Azerbaijan in Los Angeles, says: "I wish to express my own sympathies for the senseless loss of life that transpired 24 years ago. On behalf of the State of Georgia, I join you in mourning their loss." "On February 25, 1992, Azerbaijan experienced a brutal massacre resulting in the death of over 600 civilians. Events like this are important to remember, and the lives lost in this tragedy should be honored as we strive to ensure that similar act of horrendous violence do not happen again. I hope that the Azerbaijani community continues to educate Georgians and others about this day in our past that can teach us much in the present," the document further notes. The Governor concludes his statement by stressing "May we never allow such a tragedy to stain the pages of our history again." To date, 21 U.S. states have issued gubernatorial proclamations/statements or passed resolutions recognizing the Khojaly massacre. /By Azertac/ Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev has received the delegation led by the Special Envoy and Coordinator for International Energy Affairs of the US State Department Amos Hochstein. Ilham Aliyev said that the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council being held in Baku, is a successful format for holding joint discussions on the projects implementation. Highlighting the significance of the US governments support to the project, President Aliyev emphasized the importance of Hochsteins participation in this event. Azerbaijans president expressed hope that this event will bring good results. Amos Hochstein, for his part, voiced satisfaction with the invitation to the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council. Stressing the effectiveness of last years meeting, he said that the ongoing event is very significant in this important period for the project. Hochstein added that the meeting has created a good opportunity to exchange views on various issues related to the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project. The second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting kicked off in Baku on Feb. 29. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has attended the meeting. He emphasized the significance of holding this event and added that it will focus on the work done in previous years and future tasks. The president noted that high-level and successful coordination work was carried out between the projects participants following the last years meeting. President Aliyev recalled that the groundbreaking ceremony for TANAP project was held in 2015 and added that this project plays an important role in the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor. He noted that the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project will make it possible to even more expand the beneficial cooperation between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey and other countries. Today, energy security holds an important place in world politics and on the agenda of international organizations, according to Azerbaijans president. He noted that Azerbaijan remains committed to all its obligations and even more develops the principles of market economy. Ilham Aliyev said that energy cooperation cant be a political requirement and this issue should be free of any political format. Azerbaijan has created a strong cooperation between the projects participants and this cooperation will create opportunities to achieve success in other spheres of economy as well, according to Ilham Aliyev. The president added that energy security plays an important role in relations with the European Union. Minister of Defense and Logistics of the Armed Forces Brigadier-General Hossein Dehqan said on Sunday that Russian Federation does not refuse to deliver S-300 missile defense system, Irna reported. Speaking to reporters, Dehqan said that military cooperation between Iran and Russia has gained momentum over the past two years. He said that the two countries have begun negotiations on purchase and transfer of technology and have even signed contracts whose implementation is underway. Asked about media speculation that Russia has cancelled contract on delivering S-300 missile defense system to Iran, the minister said the media speculating such allegations must give evidence. /By Trend/ The Islamic Republic of Iran and Switzerland signed on Sunday a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on expansion of shipping and sea transport cooperation, Irna reported. The MoU was singed between the representatives of shipping companies from Iran and Switzerland. The two sides exchanged views on expansion of cooperation on transport, construction of Express train, renovation of road transport, and carrying development plans on infrastructure and rebuilding the ports. The MoU was signed between Iran Ports and Maritime Organization (IPMO) and Swiss MSC shipping lines as the second biggest shipbuilding company. The MoU gives green light to Swiss shipping companies to come to Iran for joint venture cooperation after implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. MSC is one of the biggest shipping companies in the world with 14.9 percent share of the global market in marine transport and have terminals in some 55 ports round the globe. MSC is the owner of chained cruise (recreation) ships in the world. The MoU authorizes the MSC of Switzerland to broaden scope of cooperation in the Iranian ports of Bandar Abbas, Chabahar and Imam. Officials of the Swiss shipping lines voiced readiness for joint venture investments in the Iranian shipping and marine industry. /By Trend/ Deputy Interior Minister for Security Affairs Hossein Zolfaqari said on Sunday that a terrorist plot in border town of Sumar, west Iran was discovered and neutralized, IRNA reported. Speaking to reporters on the measures adopted to maintain security during nation-wide elections on Friday, the official said, 'A terror team which had infiltrated the Iran-Iraq border and was approaching its destination on foot was spotted and prevented from its targets.' 'There were two agents who were exterminated and their arms were seized,' he added, 'We are working on identifying them which will be announced.' 'It will be determined what was their target, but there is no doubt that they had a terrorist intention,' Zolfaqari said. The official hailed the efforts of law-enforcing personnel saying that they managed to provide an overwhelming security all over the country during the elections. He did not confirm that the two terrorist killed on Sunday in the western province of Kermanshah bordering Iraq were connected to the Daesh terrorist group suggesting that the question can be directed to the Minstry of Intelligence. 'Before the elections, there was a terror attempt to the east of the country,' he added. /By Trend/ Iran said on Sunday that it had signed a basic agreement with South Korea to attract funds worth a total value of 5 billion for its development projects, Press TV reported. The agreement was signed between Irans Finance Minister Ali Tayyeb-Nia and the visiting South Korean Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Joo Hyung-hwan. Tayyeb-Nia told reporters that similar agreements have been previously signed with South Korea including one with the countrys Exim Bank to provide a total of 8 billion to Iran to implement its development projects. The Iranian minister further emphasized that South Korea is expected to provide Iran with loans worth a total of $15 billion based on the agreements that have been sealed so far. Tayyeb-Nia also said Minister Joo had told him that South Korean wants to invest in Irans auto industry as well as its tourism sector and its oil and gas projects. In a separate development, Valiollah Seif, the governor of the Central Bank of Iran (CBI), has been quoted by the media as saying that Iran and South Korea have agreed to create a joint bank account to settle the outstanding payments for Irans oil sales to South Korea. Seif said the agreement was reached during a meeting with South Koreas Minister of Trade, Industry and Energy Joo. The joint account, he added, will be created in the central banks of the two countries. South Korea is a key trade partner of Iran in Asia. Seoul imports as much as 10 percent of its required oil supplies from Iran. The current volume of trade between the two countries stands at around $9 billion which is expected to be increased to well above $10 billion in the near future. /By Azernews/ By Amina Nazarli Azerbaijans tourism industry is growing rapidly year after year, and today Bakus streets are often filled with foreign tourists with backpacks and cameras, photographing the beauty of the city. This year the Land of Fire may see even more tourists from the northern neighbor Russia, since the Azerbaijani travel office "Tour a Vent" established in Moscow is expected to contribute to increasing the number of Russian travelers visiting Azerbaijan. The presentation of the company was held in Moscow with participation of more than 100 Russian travel agencies. Opening the event, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Russia Polad Bulbuloglu stressed that the country pays great attention to tourism past years. We have wonderful sea, beautiful sandy beaches and excellent ski resorts. There are tours that provide an opportunity for hunting. But most importantly, Azerbaijan is renowned for its cuisine. Our kitchen is a phenomenon in the world, he said. Baku was among Top five cities that Russians anticipated to visit this year, according to the Travel.ru website. Moreover, the website named picturesque Baku among Top 10 foreign cities for weekend travel. The City of Winds became the best in the category of the most economical city for tourism in weekend, with the average cost of hotel accommodation of $20. Tourism and Culture Tourism Abulfaz Garayev recently said that Russian travel agencies are interested in tourism opportunities of Azerbaijan, what means that the country has a chance to become the most visited in the region. The Land of Fire now is more affordable, as after the devaluation of the manat, hotels and tourism agencies decreased their cost. Moreover, Azerbaijan does not require visa for Russians to enjoy the country. Here Russian-speaking tourists will have no problem with communication, as Azerbaijanis speak Russian well enough to help with any difficulties. Russian tourists make more than 30 percent of the total tourists visiting the country. Now after Egypt's and Turkeys beaches became inaccessible, Russian tourists seek new destinations for traveling. Its seems that many Russians will re-direct their tourism plans to Azerbaijan to enjoy blue and sunny Caspian Sea. Pierre Semard (1887-1942) was born in Bragny, so it is fitting that he should have this memorial in the place where he was born. Many other ... LORE: "She didnt recognize the faint silhouette at first but she had definitely seen it before. In some fevered vision. The shape moved closer and its shadow was terror. Now she remembered, it was evil, evil incarnate!" (Read more HERE on FB ) COMPETITION: "ULTRA OMEGA MUTANT!? All buyers are eligible to enter to win a free custom 'Black Beast' - 'ULTRA OMEGA MUTANT!?' by submitting a picture/ pictures of their 'Black Beast' 'Demigod!?' with the subject: "black beast omega mutant" to amb@philipadamsen.com. Most crazy, creative, imaginative, sexy, entertaining, flattering, submission wins." TCK'S EXCLUSIVE CONTENT SECTION: Only 5$ a month which is 50% lower than other sites! 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Villa Hitachi Construction Machinery (Middle East) Corporation celebrated its key achievements in 2015 at a recent dealers' conference in Dubai, UAE. The two-day event was inaugurated by Hitachi president Hidefumi Sameshima in the presence of dealers from across the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region. More than 70 guests attended the conference. Addressing the gathering, Sameshima highlighted Hitachi's achievements in the region last year and defined its targets for 2016.-TradeArabia News Service Japanese companies are set to take part in Egyptian projects worth about 2 trillion yen ($17.7 billion) in the electricity and other sectors, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Monday after meeting Egyptian President Abdel Fattah Al Sisi in Tokyo. He did not elaborate on the projects, but an official at Japan's Foreign Ministry said Japanese and Egyptian companies are scheduled to sign more than 10 memorandums of agreement on Wednesday. The announcement comes when Egypt is struggling to revive its economy after the 2011 uprising and subsequent unrest have driven away foreign investors and tourists. Abe's government drives exports of social infrastructure such as railway systems and power generation systems to the Middle East and other regions as part of its growth strategy. The leaders agreed to hold dialogue between their defence and foreign ministry officials periodically to strengthen security ties. "We've reached an agreement to bolster our cooperation to eradicate terrorism and extremism, which have transcended particular regions or national borders and have come to pose a threat to peace and security of the international community," Sisi said at the joint news conference with Abe. An Egyptian affiliate of the Islamic State militant group is waging an insurgency in the Sinai, while the hardline Islamist group beheaded two Japanese citizens last year.-Reuters Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), jointly owned by Mubadala Development Company and the Investment Corporation of Dubai (ICD), reported revenues of Dh18.7 billion in 2015, a decline from Dh19.8 billion in 2014, due to the lower market price for aluminium. EGA, which has concluded its second year of operations, reported a net income of Dh1.9 billion ($517 million) for 2015 compared with Dh3.7 billion in 2014. EGAs results were announced at its 2015 Annual General Meeting, held on February 25. Abdulla Kalban, EGA managing director and chief executive officer, said: I am proud of the companys results in 2015. Last year was challenging for the aluminium industry, largely due to global macro-economic uncertainty, growth slowdown in China, a stronger US dollar and falling oil prices. In this climate, EGAs strong results reflect the high quality of our planning, a focus on our customers and strength in operations. I want to take this opportunity to thank our employees, suppliers and customers for their support, commitment and continued partnership. The year marked the successful issuance of a Dh18 billion conventional term loan facility and Islamic commodity murabaha facility to prepay existing facilities held by EGAs subsidiary Emirates Aluminium (EMAL) and provide financial flexibility for the company to fully fund its growth plans. EGA launched several initiatives in 2015 to protect and enhance its low-cost advantage, focusing on productivity improvement capitalising on opportunities from the merger of Emal and Dubal, as well as continued optimisation of capital costs and operating efficiency. Key business highlights during the year: * 2.4 million tonnes in sales of high quality aluminium to more than 250 customers around the world, a 4 per cent increase compared to 2014. * Over 225,000 tonnes of aluminium sold in the UAE, supporting the continued growth of downstream manufacturing industries. The signing of a landmark technology licensing agreement with Aluminium Bahrain relating to the installation of EGAs DX+ Ultra Technology in Albas new production line. Breaking of ground for the new 2-million-tonnes-per-year alumina refinery in Khalifa Industrial Zone Abu Dhabi. First alumina production is expected in 2018. Positive progress on the feasibility study for the bauxite export mine phase of the GAC project in the Republic of Guinea, including the development of enabling infrastructure such as a container terminal in Kamsar, the development of local SME and workforce capabilities, and the successful delivery of a number of community projects in areas such as education and healthcare. - TradeArabia News Service Abu Dhabi Ports, the master developer, operator and manager of ports and Khalifa Industrial Zone in the emirate, has launched the second edition of its internal excellence award, Mafnood 2016. Held under the directives of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, Deputy Supreme Commander of the UAE Armed Forces, the latest edition of Mafnood expects more employees to participate, demonstrate their skills and bag the prestigious award, said a statement from the company. Mafnood (Arabic for distinguished) supports Abu Dhabi Ports strategy to motivate its employees to adopt international best practices as well as its vision to become the preferred provider of world-class integrated ports and industrial zone services. Employees showed an overall improved performance since the launch of the first edition of the award in 2014, it said. The awards will be announced in three categories, namely 'Units and Divisions, Projects, and Individuals, further added the statement. An independent external assessment team will evaluate the entries and select the winners. It will conduct in-depth interviews focusing on aspects such as leadership, strategy, project management, work planning and organisation, customer service and creativity, it stated. Mohamed Juma Al Shamisi, CEO of Abu Dhabi Ports, said: The Mafnood-inspired performance improvement was evident in all fields of our operations and this greatly contributed to our remarkable success in the Abu Dhabi Award for Excellence in Government Performance (ADAEP) in 2015. The increased enthusiasm of our employees has also influenced our decisions to make increased investments in advanced equipment and technologies as well as in overall infrastructure development to better serve our customers, he said. Our highly motivated workforce is giving a boost to the Abu Dhabis maritime industry that heavily contributes to the UAEs reputation for its quality maritime infrastructure, he added. As it is mandatory for all units/ divisions of Abu Dhabi Ports to participate in all categories of the award this year, the number of submissions is expected to increase considerably. The award procedures started in February and the winners would be announced in October, it added. TradeArabia News Service Saudi Arabia will continue to work with all main oil producers to limit market volatility and is committed to meeting a big part of global oil demand based on commercial considerations, its cabinet said on Monday, state news agency SPA reported. The cabinet added in its statement after the weekly meeting that Saudi Arabia will continue to invest in its energy sector to keep its oil production capacity to help meet any extra demand or to deal with any disruption in global supply. "The kingdom seeks to achieve stability in the oil markets and will always remain in contact with all main producers in an attempt to limit volatility and it welcomes any cooperative action," the cabinet statement said. - Reuters Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai, part of global hotel company Jumeirah Group, is celebrating Mothers Day and International Womens Day in March with an exclusive family stay package and selection of food and beverage offers. Guests can take advantage of the special staycation package from March 1. Rates start from Dh1,400 ($381) per night and includes discounts on retail, indulgent Talise Sun Spa experiences and complimentary afternoon tea for two at the stylish Palm Court lobby lounge. To mark special occasions throughout the month, ladies can enjoy 50 per cent off food and beverages across nine fine-dining and casual restaurants on selected days - UK Mothers Day on March 6, UAE Mothers Day on March 21 and International Womens Day on March 8. Participating outlets include Latitude, Villa Beach, Ocean Blue, Beach Lounge, Palm Court, La Veranda, D&A and Waterfront. Jumeirah Beach Hotel is also set to launch a number of ladies nights offering female guests a selection of free-flowing bubbly and selected extras on weekdays. Ladies can enjoy complimentary beverages every Monday from 8 - 10 pm at Beach Lounge which offers spectacular views of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, a cosy lounge interior and chilled music. Every Wednesday from 8 - 10pm, ladies can enjoy a selection of free- flowing bubbly and traditional British cuisine at the D&A gastro-pub. TradeArabia News Service Qatar Airways is all set to exhibit its Airbus A350 new-generation jetliner at the India Aviation 2016 in Hyderabad, India, next month. The A350, for which Qatar Airways was the global launch customer, will make its debut at Indias largest civil aviation and aerospace show, taking place from March 16 to 20. Held under the theme Indias Civil Aviation Sector: Potential as Global Manufacturing & MRO Hub, the event is expected to bring together 250 exhibitors and up to 50,000 visitors from around the world. Organised by Indias Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry, the event will be inaugurated by the President of India, Pranab Mukherjee, and will feature static displays, demonstration flights and aerobatic shows. Qatar Airways group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker, said: We are proud to showcase our A350 for the first time in the Indian market, giving prospective clients and visitors a glimpse of what to expect when they fly on board. We recently celebrated the first anniversary of our A350 operations which demonstrates our technologically-advanced and fast-growing young fleet. The aircraft is the very latest in design, technology and comfort, and will be making its debut appearance on the Indian shores soon. India, as one of the worlds largest aviation markets, continues to command respect. The focus this year on growing the manufacturing and maintenance, repair and overhaul businesses in India is commendable, and will benefit the aviation industry as a whole, he said. Qatar Airways was the global launch customer of the A350, taking delivery of the first aircraft in December 2014 and starting commercial operations in January 2015. The airline currently operates seven aircraft with regular commercial service to Frankfurt, Munich, Singapore and Philadelphia the first airline to operate A350s to three continents. The state-of-the-art aircraft features customised interior settings, with its Business Class cabin comprising of 36 seats in a 1-2-1 configuration and its Economy Class cabin in a 3-3-3 configuration, allowing it to seat 247 passengers. The Doha-based carrier participated in the Indian Aviation show in 2010, exhibiting a Boeing 777-200 Long Range aircraft and Qatar Executives Bombardier Challenger 300, together with a hospitality chalet. As in past events, Qatar Airways will extend its award-winning hospitality to esteemed guests, media and trade partners at a dedicated visitors chalet. Qatar Airways, the national airline of Qatar, is one of the fastest growing airlines operating one of the youngest fleets in the world. Now in its 19th year of operations, the airline operates a modern fleet of 177 aircraft flying to key business and leisure destinations across six continents. Qatar Airways offers daily passenger flights to Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Goa, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Trivandrum, Chennai, Bengaluru (Bangalore), Nagpur, with 11-flights-a-week to Cochin and double daily flights to the capital, Delhi. TradeArabia News Service Lisa Eades is the executive director of Jasons Friends Foundation. The nonprofit was created by friends of the couple (husband Rocky owns Eades Construction) to honor their son, Jason, who was diagnosed with a brain stem tumor in January 1995 and died on Nov. 11, 1995, at the age of 9. It was really created by other people who were looking at what we went through during the course of his illness, Eades said. Back then, like today, there was no cancer treatment for children available in the state of Wyoming. People have to travel out of state for that treatment ... Denver, Salt Lake City, or like in our case, it was New York City. How does Jasons Friends Foundation help Wyoming families? The foundation exists to make sure that we can help Wyoming families with childhood cancer, brain or spinal cord tumors, ease that financial burden. We help them get where they need to go for treatment, cover things like travel expenses, gas, lodging, airfare, meals. Back home we help with things like house payment, rent payment, utilities payment, car payment, insurance payments, anything we can do to ease the financial burden, car repairs, buy groceries, the whole gamut to keep them afloat. And we are there for the long haul, not just a one-time gift. Sadly some have been with us five, six, seven years. We even pay for funeral expenses ... weve done a lot of that. How many families has the foundation supported in the past and what are your current numbers? Right now we are dealing with 86 families from throughout Wyoming. A number of them are inpatients in crisis right now, some are just doing followup return visits. We recently surpassed $3.6 million worth of assistance since 1996. Every year, the number of families served has grown, therefore the number of dollars that go to help those families has grown. Well probably give close to $500,000 this year. And its mostly volunteer. We have two part-time employees, Im a volunteer and all the rest are all volunteers. Tell us about Bowl for Jasons Friends. The 18th annual fundraiser is Saturday, March 5, at El Mark-O Lanes. We can accommodate about 1,000 bowlers that day. Its not a bowl-a-thon, they just really bowl for about an hour that day at an assigned time with a team of five people. If you bring in $75 in collected pledges, you get a T-shirt and are eligible for a lot of prizes that we give away, all donated. If you bowl a 300 game, as has happened before on that day, you win $5,000 in cash, which is also sponsored. How can people still get involved? You can get a team info packet at any First Interstate or Hilltop National bank location, El Mark-O Lanes, Jasons Friends office, 340 W. B St., or at jasonsfriends.org. It is a great event, not only a fundraiser, but we get the word out on who we are and what we do. Hopefully a few families find us because of this. We are poised and ready to help anybody within the state of Wyoming with a child up to age 21. They can go to our website or just call 307-235-3421 if they need help. SALT LAKE CITY A male who authorities say was wielding a broomstick was shot and critically injured by Salt Lake City officers Saturday night, touching off unrest downtown as officers donned riot gear and blocked streets and bystanders threw rocks and bottles. The male shot by two Salt Lake City Police officers was in critical condition at a local hospital Sunday morning after being struck twice in the torso, according to Detective Ken Hansen with the Unified Police Department, which is investigating the shooting. Hansen did not have details about the male's identity or age, but a bystander told The Salt Lake Tribune and Deseret News that the male was a teenager. Hansen said the shooting occurred when two Salt Lake City officers were called around 8 p.m. to break up a fight near a downtown homeless shelter that sits next to a shopping mall and movie theater. When the officers arrived, they found the male in the street, hitting another person with the broomstick, Hansen said. Officers tried to break up the fight, but the male with the broomstick tried to attack an officer, he said. One or both of the police officers then shot the male, hitting him in the upper and lower torso, Hansen said. He did not have details about the identity of the other person involved in the fight, what prompted the dispute or whether anyone else was injured. "There's still a lot to go through," Hansen said. Police are not releasing the identity of the officers, he said. Bystander Selam Mohammad told The Salt Lake Tribune and Deseret News that his teenage friend was shot by police. Mohammad told the newspapers that his friend was holding the broomstick at his side when officers arrived and that police shot him as he turned around. "He barely even turned around, then boom, boom, boom and he just dropped," Mohammad told the Deseret News. When asked about that account, Hansen said he did not have details to confirm or deny that information. Hansen had no information about how many shots were fired or how far away the male with the broomstick was from police when they pulled their guns. He did not know the size of the broomstick or whether it was sharpened. He also did not know whether the male had a gun, knife or any other weapon on him at the time. After the shooting, bystanders began yelling obscenities and throwing rocks and bottles at police, who called in about 100 officers to help. Police, including officers wearing helmets and carrying riot shields, barricaded four surrounding city blocks. A light rail stop in the neighborhood was closed. Hansen said the protesters throwing rocks and bottles were people hanging out near the shelter. He didn't know if they were homeless, but he said they were not customers of the nearby shopping center. Hansen said the area was relatively busy, with people visiting the shopping center and restaurants and others hanging out near the shelter and homeless facilities. "There were pockets of that disturbance for hours," Hansen said Sunday. Salt Lake City Police Detective Greg Wilking said did not have details Sunday about how the shooting unfolded or the identities of the two males or two officers involved in the shooting. Neither officer involved in the shooting was injured, Wilking said. Both officers were placed administrative leave while the incident is investigated. The male that police believe was hit with the broomstick did not require medical attention, Wilking said. Wilking said police asked bystanders to leave the area and put up barricades and tape to clear streets. He did not know how long bystanders were throwing objects at police but said it went on for a matter of minutes, not hours. He said the area near the shooting was crowded but he did not know how many people were involved in throwing objects at officers. Wilking said several people were arrested but he did not know how many. He said he did not know of any incidents where police cleared streets by using riot shields to physically move people. The department planned to release more information later Sunday. Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski said in a statement Sunday that she was saddened and that the shooting was a tragedy for everyone involved. "The use of force by law enforcement against the public can tear at the delicate balance of trust between both sides, and must be taken extremely seriously," she said. "These incidents create a number of unanswered questions in the short term, and justice requires we work together in good faith to find answers." LARAMIE Drones are coming to the University of Wyoming for a symposium that will focus in part on how they can be put to use in the states wide-open spaces. The universitys Wyoming Geographic Information Science Center will host the symposium May 17-18. It wont just be a lot of droning on demonstration aircraft will buzz around inside and out. The development of this technology has really advanced significantly in the past few years, center director Jeff Hamerlink said Friday. What we hope what we can contribute is something thats a little bit more unique to Wyoming. Possibilities include using drones to keep an eye on wildfires and ranching operations. Most attention paid drones in Wyoming to date has involved unmanned aircraft in Yellowstone National Park. In 2014, a judge ordered a Dutch man to pay $3,240 in fines and restitution for crashing a drone into Grand Prismatic Spring. It was one of at least three errant drones in the park that year. Drones offer many advantages over traditional, manned aircraft and satellites to gather data about natural resources. They are less expensive and can provide data more quickly, Hamerlink said. Drones promise a big step forward in some ways from the federal governments more than 40-year-old Landsat program, which revolutionized data-gathering for agriculture, natural resource sciences and mapping through satellite images. The problem with Landsat is turnaround time. You dont get a return on those satellites less than every 16 or 17 days a little bit difficult if youre getting close to harvest time or monitoring the changes in a wildfire, Hamerlink said. The symposium will cover technological developments as well some of the ongoing legal and privacy implications of drone use, he said. Registration opens March 15. Speakers scheduled so far include experts from the U.S. Geological Survey and Federal Aviation Administration. With falling state revenues and an economic forecast that looks increasingly cloudy, Wyoming legislators have been forced to make some tough decisions in recent weeks. In these times of declining revenues, there seems to be two approaches weve seen this session. One is the chicken little approach, the other is to bury ones head in the sand like an ostrich. That false choice is for the birds. As the branch of government that is charged with appropriating public funds and setting fiscal policy, we simply cannot afford to run around screaming, The sky is falling, while boarding up the windows and shutting down the state for business. Nor can we bury our heads in the sand saying, This is not happening. The reality is, we must navigate these uncertain economic waters with an approach that is somewhere in the middle. The budget presented by the Joint Appropriations Committee, amended by the House and Senate, and currently being reconciled by both bodies does just that. There has been a great deal of rhetoric this session that the budget prioritizes projects over people. These are the same arguments we heard 10 years ago when we saved our surplus and created the Hathaway Scholarship program, quintupled our Permanent Mineral Trust Fund and established the Legislative Stabilization Reserve Account (commonly referred to as the rainy day fund). The critics said then that we are stuffing money in the mattress and not using it for people. Today, we hear much of the same. However, this budget indeed prioritizes people, with increases for many of Wyomings most important citizens. We increased funding for senior centers, the disabled and developmental preschools, among others. This is a unique budget session in that we have a windfall of one-time revenues. The budget proposes using these one-time monies to rebuild the facilities at our state mental hospital in Evanston and the state training school in Lander. If we are not going to use these one-time monies to rebuild these 80-year-old buildings, when will we do it? Should we wait 10 years from now, when they are 90 years old? As lawmakers, we have a constitutional duty to care for Wyomings most vulnerable citizens. And the investment of these one-time dollars in these facilities will last several generations. Our forefathers built these facilities for us with an eye on the future. Its now our turn. Looking at jobs, in this budget, we only displaced one current government job and a handful of contracts. What we did cut were vacant positions. However, we also need to consider the jobs in the private sector and those people. The people who will be laying the foundations, installing the plumbing and electricity, and all the good jobs that will support Wyoming working men, women and their families. These are people, too. The mission is not to continue the size of government by continuing to fund vacant positions. To suggest that we use one-time dollars to backfill vacant positions is not reality. The false argument of spend it all or save or projects over people is the same tired argument and the people of Wyoming recognize that. We live in the best state in the United States, and in the best country that God has ever created. While drafting the state biennial budget, we continued to reflect and be thankful that we saved some money during the good times. It is because of these savings that we are able to have this gentle glide into a trimmer budget. And we did it by cutting vacant positions, a few programs and implementing the Penny Plan. Our most vulnerable citizens are well taken care of, we have the best-funded K-12 system in the country, we have great programs for our kids, UW is one of the greatest institutions in the United States and our community colleges are funded 500 percent better than our neighbors. The citizens of this state have done a great job and I think it reflects all around our state. Every town has new schools and new facilities, our roads are in top shape, our services are great and our benefits are fantastic. Furthermore, our 4.3 percent unemployment rate shows there are a lot of people working in this state and were going to keep this state open for business. This budget is a long-term plan and it has been in the works for a long time for over 10 years, since we started saving for it. And thank goodness for that. It makes us think of the old bumper sticker that says, Lord just give me one more boom. I promise not to waste it. Thankfully, we havent. Hell, said Alabamas Democratic Gov. George Wallace before roiling the 1968 presidential race, we got too much dignity in government now, what we need is some meanness. Twelve elections later, Wallaces wish is approaching fulfillment as Republicans contemplate nominating someone who would run to Hillary Clintons left. Donald Trump, unencumbered by any ballast of convictions, would court Bernie Sanders disaffected voters with promises to enrich rather than reform the welfare states entitlement menu Trump already says, I am going to take care of everybody and to make America great again by having it cower behind trade barriers. If elected, Trump presumably would seek re-election, so there would be no conservative choice for president until at least 2024. The Democratic Party once had to defend itself against a populist demagogue. During the 1932 campaign, while lunching at Hyde Park with his aide Rexford Tugwell, Franklin Roosevelt took a telephone call from Sen. Huey Long, who as governor had made Louisiana into Americas closest approximation of a police state. When the call ended, FDR told Tugwell: Thats the second-most dangerous man in this country. Hueys a whiz on the radio. He screams at people and they love it. Who, Tugwell asked, is the most dangerous? FDR, recalling Gen. Douglas MacArthurs violent dispersal of aggrieved military veterans in Washington in July 1932, answered: You saw how he strutted down Pennsylvania Avenue. You saw that picture of him in the Times after the troops chased all those vets out with tear gas and burned their shelters. Did you ever see anyone more self-satisfied? Theres a potential Mussolini for you. Trump, who was a big-government liberal Democrat until he recently discovered he was a conservative Republican, has the upturned jutted jaw, the celebration of energy and the flirtation with violence and torture that characterized the Italian who was a radical socialist until he decided he was a fascist. Trump, however, is as American as Huey Long. MacArthur said all military disasters could be explained by two words: Too late. Too late to discern a danger, too late to prepare for it. The Trumpkins love affair with their hero is too hot not to cool down unless his opponents quickly act on this fact: His supporters like him, not what pass for his ideas, so the way to stop him is to show him to be unlikable. Clintons opposition researchers must be delirious with delight about what they already have to work with. The 2012 Obama campaign had to resort to tendentiousness to present Mitt Romneys impeccable business practices as proof that he was a villain. Read what a conscientious conservative, Ian Tuttle of National Review Online, is finding in Trumps already public record (www.nationalreview.com/author/ian-tuttle). Then imagine what fun Democrats will have with Trumps career of crony capitalism lubricated, he boasts, by renting politicians. Trumps Republican opponents are running out of days, places and people to stop him. Candidates, voters and other daydream believers rail against the establishment, waiting for this corpse to resurrect itself. But it died 50 years ago, on April 24, 1966, when its house organ, the New York Herald-Tribune, expired. The establishment had been comatose since Barry Goldwater brushed aside its feebly arrogant attempt to derail his nomination at the 1964 convention. Today, the conservative movement should pool its sufficient resources to help Marco Rubio defeat Trump in winner-take-all Florida, where Rubio should spend all of his days and dimes between now and March 15. And to support John Kasich in Ohio. And Trump should be bombarded with questions like these: What are you hiding by refusing to give the public the aesthetic pleasure of examining what you call your beautiful tax returns? Will you at least jot down on a piece of paper your gross income in each of the last three years? And your adjusted gross income on your personal tax returns in the last three years? And how much you paid in federal personal income taxes in those years? And how much each of your companies paid? Will you release the last five years of your personal financial statements these are already prepared that banks would have required you to submit annually in connection with the loans you list on the liabilities page of your financial disclosure report? Trump probably hopes to secure the nomination before releasing pertinent information about his career that supposedly is his qualification for Lincolns chair. Perhaps, like Cole Porter, he knows when a love affair is too hot not to cool down. Welcome to Holy Trinity Church! Holy Trinity is a small parish, located in Troy, Montana right on US Highway 2 at the corner of Third Street and Missoula Avenue. Here you'll find a lovely 'Carpenter Gothic' church with red doors and a garden out front, between the Sanctuary and parish hall doors. See the "About" page for worship times and dates. The Episcopal Church welcomes you! MARINE CORPS AIR GROUND COMBAT CENTER, TWENTYNINE PALMS, Calif. Over mountains, rocky terrain, and oversized hills, three aircraft fly across the desert landscape. They bank and circle as they approach their destination. Suddenly, one of the aircraft drops into a steep dive. The A-10 Thunderbolt II fires its main weapon toward the ground and the thunderous roar of its 30 mm cannon rages across the valley. This sortie was part of Integrated Training Exercise (ITX) 2-16. The Marines of 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment and the A-10 maintainers staged at March Air Reserve Base, California, allowed for the successful sortie mission. After completing the mission, Capt. Ryan Rutter, a pilot with the 354th Fighter Squadron, flies 90 miles back to March Air Reserve Base, California, lands the jet and climbs out of the cockpit. We are conducting a joint training exercise with the Marines at Twentynine Palms, said Rutter. Our main job as A-10 pilots is to provide air-to-ground support. As the Marines are on the ground, we are overhead providing the fire and support that they need. The nature of the exercise helps drive integration." Capt. Matthew Barrett, who is also an A-10 pilot with the 354th FS, says, ITX is a unique opportunity for both the Marine Corps and Air Force to gain valuable experience working together. Getting to work with live artillery, tanks, mortars, Cobras and Harriers that are shooting real weapons is pretty rare in the rest of the U.S.; this is one of the only places you can do it, said Barrett. Its a pretty awesome opportunity for us to train. He believes its a solid stepping-stone for working together and learning how to support the Marines in accomplishing their mission. Story continues below video. An important element in conducting the ITX is communication, not only between the Marines and Air Force but also between the pilots and the maintainers who support them. We know that the A-10 jets are supporting fire for the Twentynine Palms Marines," said Staff Sgt. Christopher Blackstone, a crew chief assigned to 355th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (AMXS). I think its great, I think it shows what we can do; that we are able to bring the fight to the enemy and get the mission accomplished, he said. We've worked with all the branches, Army, Navy, Marines and everybody loves the A-10 because they know it's out there to support them. Blackstone believes that because of the A-10s specialized role, it benefits greatly from efficient interoperability between forces. "The A-10 is strictly air-to-ground," he said. "The pilot and the people on the ground have to talk because every second counts. We have to be on the same page the entire time. The more people that we're able to train with, helps us be more effective in everything that we're doing. "We do our best to relay to our airmen who they're supporting and why they're supporting," said Chief Master Sgt. Francis Emmerling, superintendent of the 355th AMXS. He says, with the current environment of the modern day military, joint training is crucial. "Anywhere we go these days, we're going to be in some type of joint environment," he said. "We're there with the Army, we're there with the Navy, and with other Air Force members as well." Emmerling stresses the importance of knowing how to work together, so that American forces may enter the theater of battle with full effectiveness. This isnt your fathers science fair. Instead of paper mache volcanoes, the Southern Arizona Research, Science and Engineering Fair is invading the Tucson Convention Center Wednesday through Saturday with projects featuring microbiology, engineering and more. The Southern Arizona Research, Science and Engineering Foundation is hosting the annual fair and has been a nonprofit serving Southern Arizona for 61 years, said Kathleen Bethel, the chief executive officer. The participants range from elementary to high school students, and this years fair has almost 2,000 entries. Primarily, we are helping kids individually fulfill their own dreams and figure out what they want to be in their future, Bethel said. Only the top 10 percent of each individual schools science fair is able to compete, and the winner is eligible to compete nationally in the Intel International Science and Engineering Fair. One of the entries in this weeks fair belongs to Tucson High School senior Alex Utzinger, who started working in a University of Arizona research lab last fall. Utzinger studied the effect of the invasive buffelgrass on the bacteria that live in the soil for his project. The particular bacteria he was interested in studying help control the level of nitrogen in the soil, an important building block plants use to grow. The most exciting thing Ive learned is the depth that soil affects everything, Utzinger said, The soil is the basis of where all life starts, and the food chain sets itself up from there. Utzinger became interested in soils after meeting a UA graduate student on a field trip to Mount Lemmon. After doing this project, I know that I definitely want to go into biology, and doing this [fair] will greatly help me in future classes, Utzinger said. This isnt uncommon among students in Tucson Highs biotechnology program. Many of my former students have gotten Ph.D.s in the fields they started (researching) in high school, said Margaret Wilch, a biotechnology and research methods teacher at Tucson High. Wilch has been teaching the research methods course since 1992, and has more than 20 student projects at this years fair. In addition to hosting the fair, SARSEF also works to promote science, engineering, mathematics and technology in Southern Arizona. We work year-round to go out into the schools and do educational outreach so we make sure that they get the most instruction in STEM, Bethel said. SARSEF works directly with students in their classrooms and also provides workshops for teachers and parents. Last year, they visited 136 schools and reached omore than 32,000 students through their programs. SARSEF tries to focus its efforts on groups underrepresented in science and in schools in rural or impoverished areas. Weve tried to fill in the gaps for the schools that are struggling now to keep up with their funding being cut, Bethel said. All the students hard work will pay off this weekend thanks to the more than 300 prizes worth more than $100,000, which was donated to SARSEF. You go see these projects and these kids, and realize the future is not bleak at all, Bethel said. High school students are encouraged to submit entries for the 2016 Congressional Art Competition. Winning students in Arizonas 3rd Congressional District have the opportunity to take a trip to Washington to see their artwork on display in the U.S. Capitol. Each entry must be original in concept, design and execution. Paintings, drawings, collage, prints, mixed media, computer-generated art and photography will be accepted. The deadline for submissions is April 20. Congressman Raul Grijalva will announce the winner May 3. For more information about the contest, go to: www.grijalva.house.gov/artcompetition The Tucson Theatre Announcements List is a monitored e-mail list. Notices from Tucson area theatre companies, filmmakers and others are forwarded to the list members. These notices include auditions, casting calls, openings and other announcements of interest to actors, directors, techies and theatre lovers in our community. This Blog contains an archive of recent posts to the list. For more information go to http://tucsonstage.com Help India! By TCN Staff Reporter Delhi: In an attempt to help people from marginalised communities set up their own businesses, the Union Budget has allocated Rs 500 crore for scheduled caste, scheduled tribes and women entrepreneurs under the Stand up India scheme. Support TwoCircles Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, while presenting the Budget on Monday in the Parliament, said that a national hub will also be set up in the Ministry of Micro Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) in partnership with industry associations to provide professional support to SC/ST entrepreneurs. Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe entrepreneurs are beginning to show great promise in starting and running successful business enterprisesthe Union Cabinet has approved the Stand Up India Scheme to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and womenThe Scheme will facilitate at least two such projects per bank branch, one for each category of entrepreneur. This will benefit at least 2.5 lakh entrepreneurs, he said in his Budget speech. We are celebrating the 125th birth anniversary of Shri B Ambedkar. This must become the year of the economic empowerment for SC/ST entrepreneurs It is proposed to constitute a national SC/ST hub in the MSME Ministry in partnership with industry associations, Jaitley said. Announcing the scheme, Jaitley said there had been extensive interactions with Dalit India Chamber of Commerce and Industry [DICCI] on building an entrepreneurship ecosystem. This hub will provide a professional support to SC/ST entrepreneurs to fulfil the obligations under the Central government procurement policy adopted best practices and leverage the Stand up initiative. The scheme for welfare and skill development of minorities such as multi-sectoral development and USTADD (Upgrading the Skills and Training in Traditional Arts/Crafts for Development) shall be implemented effectively, he said. Commenting on the scheme, Chandrabhan Prasad, Mentor, DICCI, said he saw the scheme as a positive for marginalised communities. The scheme is a welcome step in encouraging marginalised communities, and I hope this amount is increased over time, he told Twocircles.net There are other questions that have been left unanswered. In November 2011, the UPA government had announced the Public Procurement Policy. Under this, every central ministry/PSU had to set an annual goal for procurement from the MSE sector at the beginning of the year, with the objective of achieving an overall procurement goal of minimum 20% of the total annual purchases of the products or services produced or rendered by MSEs from the latter in a period of three years. Out of 20% target of annual procurement from MSEs, a sub-target of 4% (i.e. 20% out of 20%) was to be earmarked for procurement from MSEs owned by SC/ST entrepreneurs. The scheme also said then, that at the end of three years, the overall procurement goal of minimum 20% will be made mandatory. However, after the scheme was made mandatory, a report prepared by the Prime Ministers Office showed that the Central Government departments and Central PSUS made only 10%purchases from medium, small and micro enterprises (MSMEs), against the mandatory requirement of 20%. Meanwhile, procurement from SC/ST enterprises is worse at 0.2%, against the mandatory 4%. To me, it is a riddle. As it stands, 4% is a low number to encourage SC/ST entrepreneurs. More than providing credit, we need to open markets for these entrepreneurs. Once they have a market to sell to, credit becomes easier. However, not much seems to be done in this regard and this was not talked about in the Budget speech. I believe that if the government had also focussed on improving demand from SC/ST entrepreneurs, it would have helped tremendously, said Prasad. Help India! By Shaik Amer Arafath for TwoCircles.net, When our Constitution was framed, the framers made a special provision with intention to provide equal opportunity in the public employment to all the citizens. The same was inserted in the Article15 (4) and Article 16(4). Support TwoCircles Article 15(4): Empowers the State to make any special provision for the advancement of any socially and educationally backward classes of citizens or for the Scheduled Castes and the Scheduled Tribes Article 16(4): Empowers the State to make any provision for the reservation in appointments or posts in favor of any backward class of citizens which, in the opinion of the State, is not adequately represented in the services under the State. Historical Background : A. The Minority Report presented by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in the then Constituent Assembly on August 18, 1947, on reservation was proposed for Muslims, Christians and Scheduled Castes across the country. However, the recommendations were amended later by removing Muslims and Christians from the list of beneficiaries. B. The then Government of Andhra Pradesh constituted Backward class commission headed by KN Anantharaman in 1970 to identify the different categories of OBC and to recommend reservation of seats both in professional colleges and in government services. The committee came out with following recommendations of reservations: 1. BC A [Nomadic Tribes] = 7% 2. BC B [Rural Professional Groups] = 13% 3. BC C [Harijan Converts] = 1% 4. BC D [Other Classes] = 9% But the Government of Andhra Pradesh accepted recommendations with some changes in it. It provided: 1. BC A = 7% 2. BC B = 10% 3. BC C = 1% 4. BC D = 7% C. In 1982, The Government of Andhra Pradesh appointed one man commission, known as Muralidhar Rao Commission to review the recommendations made by Andhra Pradesh Backward Class commission 1970. The commission made the following recommendations: i) To enhance the quota of reservations from 25% to 44% 1. BC A = 10% 2. BC B = 16% 3. BC C = 8% 4. BC D = 8% 5. BC E = 2% ii) The reservations so provided shall be in force for 25 years. The state government accepted commissions recommendations but it was followed by several agitations across the state. However, The Andhra Pradesh High Court in V. Narayana Case struck down the recommendations of Muralidhar Rao Commission. D. The President of India under Article 340(1) constituted Second BC Commission in 1979 to identify the socially or educationally backward. It was headed by B.P. Mandal. The Mandal Commission adopted various methods and techniques to collect the necessary data and evidence. In order to identify as an Other Backward Class, the commission adopted 11 criteria grouped under social, educational and economic aspects. But the government accepted only 7 criteria: 1. Social Aspect 3 2. Educational Aspect 2 3. Economical Aspect -1. It provided 27% reservation to OBCs after going through these aspects. E. The Situation changed when the Rajinder Sachar Committee, appointed in 2005 by Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh , was commissioned to prepare a report on the latest social , economic and educational conditions of the Muslim community of India. The committee was headed by former Chief Justice of the Delhi High Court Rajinder Sachar. It was a report with heart breaking facts. The committee prepared a report of 403 pages, and presented in Lok Sabha on November 30, 2006. According to the Sachar Committee report, some of the major concerns are: i) The status of Indian Muslims is below the conditions of Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. ii) The overall percentage of Muslims in bureaucracy in India is just 2.5% whereas Muslims constitute above 14% of the population of India iii) The Literacy rate of Muslims in India was 59.1% (2001 census) less than the national average. iv) The dropout rates of Muslim community is high when compared to other communities. Conclusion : So after Sachar Committee report, the pathetic conditions of Muslims brought a nationwide debate. The concept of Social Justice will be achieved with the inclusion of Muslim in the reservation list. The TRS in its election manifesto said that it will provide 12% reservation to Muslims and it constituted G Sudheer Reddy commission. The commission is preparing report. The reservation for the Muslims is the need of the hour. There will be no real growth & social development without the uplifting of Muslims in educational & government services. The apex court has to decide on the status of 4% reservations in an appeal before it which is pending since 2010 (Civil Appeal No: (a) 2628 2637 of 2010 in SLP No 7388 97 of 2010, dated. 25/03/2010). P.S Krishnan, Senior IAS Officer will defend both the governments of Andhra Pradesh & Telangana. Surprisingly the Advocate-General of Telangana is the lawyer of the opposition to oppose the reservation before Supreme Court. It is also astonishing that KCR is making a promise to provide 12% reservation to Muslims and on the other hand he has appointed a person to the post of Advocate General who is opposed to the reservation policy. This clearly indicates the dual policy of the government. [ Author is a B.Tech in Mechanical stream and is preparing for State Group Exams] Prophetic timeline of the Four Horsemen': White Horse Evil King and War 2001-2004 Red Horse Suffering - Attack on Peace 2005-2008 Black Horse Economic Recession, Riots 2009-2012 Pale Horse Economic Recession, Riots, Suffering, Attack on Peace, Destruction, Death 2013-2016 According to the Book of Revelation by Saint John, the events that follow the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse are described as the Great Tribulation.The prophetic timeline of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse started with the white horse when the horseman began his ride on 9/11/2001.The following mysterious image of the four horsemen was taken in the skies over Nilai, Malaysia in 2009 and could be a sign of God trying to get your attention that the situation in the world getting worse.And remember the second sign when a ghost horse and his rider appeared during the 2011 rioting in Cairo, Egypt. Again a warning that we are on the verge of collapse?Until today, a new sign has failed to materialize in the sky, but it will not surprise me if another ghost horse will appear in the sky in a short period of time. According to the Great Tribulation, the real horrors will begin in the year 2017 and are far more destructive and impact the globe in ways you cannot imagine.Video below: Ghost Horse 2011 rioting in Cairo. Watch from 1:17 onwards. Staying in the Moment When Short-Stacked with Justin Oliver February 29 2016 PokerNews Staff For most of us, being short-stacked is a commonly experienced situation in tournament poker. Sometimes despite our best efforts, circumstances conspire to force us to do what we can while grinding away with a below average stack. Basic tournament strategy dictates you should if possible avoid becoming so short-stacked that you have too few chips either (1) to make it difficult for an opponent to call when you finally do shove all in, or (2) to make a double-up meaningful enough to improve your chances of going deeper in the tournament. Letting yourself get whittled down to a stack of just a few big blinds not only takes away most of your preflop options (leaving you in push-or-fold mode). It also makes it increasingly hard to do anything to better the situation, as even winning an all-in doesnt necessarily bring you up and out of the danger zone. That said, it still happens to the best of us. Perhaps you lose a big preflop all-in versus an opponent whom you only had barely out chipped, and now you are crippled (as they say). Or some other sequence of unfortunate events have left you with little chip-wise. When in that situation, many players consider themselves facing what is essentially an uncomplicated math problem, with certain hands worth raising all in with as determined by factors like hand strength, position, and how much you have left to shove. But theres more to dealing with being short-stacked than simply understanding the math. Its a mental challenge, too, as Justin Oliver helped explain to us this week at the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure. Its just about what you have now, Oliver explained. It doesnt matter what you want. We all want to win the Powerball. We all want 200 big blinds in a tournament. Youve got to just play your stack. Down to just a few big blinds during the middle stages of the PokerStars Caribbean Adventure Main Event, the Toronto player was able to stay strong mentally and persevere, including doubling up once on the bubble in order to survive. Hed eventually go on to finish 30th in the event, cashing for $20,120. That followed an earlier cash in the Latin American Poker Tour Bahamas Main Event last week at the PCA, helping him to move up over the $900,000 mark in career tournament earnings. Hear what else Oliver had to say about keeping your focus when short-stacked in tournaments, other advice hes learned from Daniel Negreanu, and more about the mental side of poker. Get all the latest PokerNews updates on your social media outlets. Follow us on Twitter and find us on both Facebook and Google+! Sharelines From the PCA, Justin Oliver discusses keeping your focus when short-stacked in a tournament. Down to just a few big blinds, Justin Oliver persevered to make a deep run in the PCA Main Event. Chinese vice premier meets US treasury secretary on economic ties Updated: 2016-02-29 02:05 (Xinhua) Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang (left) meets with US Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew in Beijing on Feb 28, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua] BEIJING -- Chinese Vice Premier Wang Yang met with US Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew in Beijing on Sunday, discussing economic ties between the two countries. Wang said the two sides, having achieved key progress in bilateral ties over the past year, should work together to set the economic agenda for this year's meetings between the two countries' presidents. Wang said China is ready to work with the United States to ensure the success of the eighth annual economic dialogue, and push forward negotiations on a bilateral investment treaty and on an environmental goods agreement under the World Trade Organization framework. The vice premier hoped the two sides will enhance mutual trust and control their disputes to advance economic ties in a healthy and sustainable way. As to the just-concluded Group of 20 (G20) Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting, Wang said that China and the United States should work together to ensure that commitments at the meeting are honored in pursuit of strong, sustainable and balanced global growth. The treasury secretary said the US is willing to maintain communication and coordination with China on bilateral and global economic issues. He also said the United States supports China to host the G20 Hangzhou Summit. Nine families and a journey from riches to rags and back Updated: 2016-02-29 15:14 By Lin Jinghua(China Daily) Jiufen [Photo/sohu.com] Until gold was found in Jiufen in Taiwan in 1893 it was a rather sleepy town, and indeed in its early days, during the Qing Dynasty (1368-1644), just nine families are said to have lived there. Because of poor transport at the time, whoever went out of the then village, located in what is now Ruifang district of Xinbei city, usually bought everything in nine packages, one for each family. Thus the name Jiufen, jiu meaning nine and fen parts. But when gold was discovered there in 1893 the mountain-side village was transformed into a town in which 40,000 people eventually lived, and tightly packed buildings eventually competed with one another on the hillsides, linked with labyrinth of narrow, winding paths. The Japanese colonizers of Taiwan between 1895 and 1945 took control of the gold reserves along with the Yan family in the town of Keelung, near Jiufen. More than 80 gold pits operated at the height of the gold boom, and many of its inhabitants led affluent lives in a buzzing town that never seemed to sleep. Predictably, as the gold resources began to dwindle in the late 1950s, the town's life blood seeped slowly away and by the early 1970s the gold was finished and the town became a sleepy relic of what it had been for nearly 80 years. But it started to attract artists with its beautiful landscape, winding paths and old buildings, and as sculptors and ceramic artists began to move in there was a mini renaissance. That began to be cemented in the early 1990s after the release of the film A City of Sadness, which was filmed in Jiufen, and which won the Gold Lion award at the 46th Venice Film Festival in 1989. The town has now become a tourist magnet, and its shops, restaurants, teahouses, cafe and home-stay inns have become thriving businesses. Many of those who visit the town are there for less than a day, so one way of experiencing it at its quietest best is to stay for a night or two. (China Daily USA 02/29/2016 page09) Town built on gold in spotlight again Updated: 2016-02-29 15:14 By Lin Jinghua(China Daily) Jiufen, a mountain-side town, in Ruifang district, Xinbei city, draws tourists with its landscape, local specialities and gold heritage. [Photo by Lin Jinghua / China Daily] Lost luster found as block buster movie pulls in tourists When the film director Hou Hsiao-Hsien was making his award-winning film A City of Sadness in Jiufen in 1989 he could scarcely have realized what a service he was doing to the town, which is about a 90-minute drive from downtown Taipei. The film, set between 1945 and 1950, depicts the life of the four brothers of the Lin family, and its background is the February 28 Incident in Taiwan in 1947, an anti-government uprising that took place exactly 69 years ago this weekend. I imagine Hou chose Jiufen as a location for his film because it perfectly captured the mood he wanted to depict. That dark mood of the late 1940s was no doubt inextricably linked to the tragedy of the thousands who died as the uprising was quelled, while the somber air Hou found in Jiufen in 1989 may have had something to do with the fact that by then Jiufen was a mere shadow of the thriving gold town that had existed there in the earlier part of the century. On a foggy morning early this month I visited Jiufen, which, thanks mostly to Hou using it in his film, has turned into a tourist attraction over the past 25 years and regained some of its earlier verve. After a train and bus trip from Taipei I stood in a narrow street bathed in fog. I latched on to a group of people who were ambling along, and we ended up in a cobblestoned lane that turned out to be a mecca for food. Lawyer sets up Liang defense fund Updated: 2016-02-29 11:20 By Heng Weili in New York(China Daily USA) A lawyer has set up a legal defense fund for former New York City police officer Peter Liang, who was convicted earlier this month of manslaughter. Gary Park, a lawyer who organized the fund pro bono; Fenny Liang, Peter Liang's mother; Christine Leung, a retired NYPD detective, and community groups gathered at a press conference on Feb 26 at the Confucius Plaza Community Room in Manhattan's Chinatown to announce the fund. "There has been a tremendous outpouring of support from the local, national and international communities for Peter Liang to seek justice," said a release from Park's law practice, which has offices in Manhattan, Flushing, Queens and New Jersey. "The special legal defense fund account was created to accept, manage and disburse funds on Peter's behalf." Park's law office said it was "proud to offer our pro-bono legal services in the creation and future maintenance of the special legal defense fund for Peter Liang and his family". On Feb 20, thousands of people across the US protested the guilty verdict returned on Feb 11 against Liang, a Chinese-American rookie NYPD officer, in the shooting death of Akai Gurley, 28, in November 2014. Liang, now 28, discharged his gun in a darkened stairwell of a Brooklyn housing project, and the ricocheted bullet fatally struck Gurley, a father of a 2-year-old girl, on a lower floor. Prosecutors argued that Liang was reckless, more concerned about losing his job and showed indifference to Gurley's injury. He didn't attempt to provide CPR, choosing to wait for paramedics to arrive, witnesses testified. But many of the protesters countered that the shooting was an accident and that a rookie officer without CPR experience should not have been sent to patrol a dangerous area. They also allege that Liang was "scapegoated" because an African-American man once again had died in an incident involving police. Park said that the efforts made on Liang's behalf have encouraged the former officer. "I think he's more calm," Park said, according to the New York Daily News. "He was anxious about how we were going to manage all this. He had no idea he'd have this much support." Park said "he's inspired, and he's got a positive attitude now". Still, there is some sentiment in the Asian-American community in support of the verdict. Margaret Chin, a city councilwoman in New York, was in favor of Liang's indictment. And in a Feb 24 op-ed in the Columbia Spectator, the Columbia University Asian American Alliance wrote that it stands "in support of #JusticeforAkaiGurley and his family. We believe that the indictment of Peter Liang was just and that no leniency in the length of his jail sentence should be considered, given the severity of his crime and his direct role in the loss of an innocent life". hengweili@chinadailyusa.com The Union City, California, official has long been fond of Chinese culture and is about to visit sister city Liyang in Jiangsu province Carol Dutra-Vernaci is surrounded by Chinese paintings and knick-knacks - all gifts from her Chinese friends or souvenirs from her trips to China. The mayor of Union City, about 30 miles south of San Francisco in Silicon Valley, has kept a close rapport with the "Middle Kingdom" on the other side of the globe. "One of my good friends when I was growing up happened to be Chinese, so I was exposed at an early age to Chinese culture and what it had to offer," Dutra-Vernaci told China Daily in her City Hall office. "It's just nice as an adult I've been exposed to even more." On Feb 27, she will attend an annual event in the city held by the Chinese community there, and on April 28, she will embark on a trip to Liyang, a Chinese city in Jiangsu province and a sister city of Union City, at the invitation of Liyang's mayor, to attend the Tea Festival there. A lifetime resident of Union City, Dutra-Vernaci has been serving the city since 1988, when she was appointed to the Redevelopment Advisory Committee. She was then appointed to the Planning Commission, where she served until she was elected to the City Council in 1997. She spent 13 years on the City Council, including three as vice-mayor, before she was elected mayor. Union City has a diverse population, with 10.8 percent of its 74,000 residents of Chinese heritage. The Chinese community has kept an "excellent relationship" with the others, the mayor said. "It's an example of one of the ways that we exemplify that relationship every year through Union City specifically and through our sister city program." Her connection with China put her on two trade missions to the country in June 2014 and July 2015, when Dutra-Vernaci joined other local leaders from the Bay Area and took part in the programs to further economic development ties with the region. "Each trip was uniquely different," she said. The second trip, themed "innovation, interaction and green", took the mayors to Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, as well as second-tier cities like Chengdu and Jiangmen, where they met with Chinese government leaders at provincial and city levels and discussed topics from building international incubators and service platforms for small- to medium-sized businesses to enhancing strategic and international entrepreneurship cooperation. What struck her the most is the business park that was in the process of being created. "So we were actually in the 'construction trailer' with the model of what they knew their business park was going to look like," she said. The technology was what Silicon Valley is all about, and in China it certainly was the focus when they were visiting tech centers. She spoke of the E Hub in Shenzhen, an entrepreneur hub for innovative youth startups from around the world. "There's certainly a synergy because we are working on compatible projects," she said. "I don't want to say similar, because that is not necessarily true. Everything is different, but products are considered compatible, and then the technology is being used to develop the products." From those trips, Dutra-Vernaci said she gained a deeper understanding of the Chinese culture. "Chinese people like to do business with people that they consider their friends. So that's what we learned on the first trip, that if you establish a friendship, you also establish a trust, and that certainly is very helpful in the business environment where you try to make decisions," she said. "But if you work with somebody you trust, it's a lot easier than somebody you don't know anything about." Although no Chinese companies have directly set up shop in Union City, they did "open up lines of communication" with some of Union City's businesses, she said. "Some folks (from China) have come to Union City; we've managed to introduce them." "It's 'opening the doors' that we hadn't opened before I went on these trips for folks in China and the rest of the world to see what Union City has to offer for the expansion of their firms," she explained. "It's a learning process; you can't just show up somewhere for the first time and open up your business without taking the time to learn a little bit about the area and the infrastructure." As an income tax professional and a business owner who has had her tax practice in Union City for more than 30 years, Dutra-Vernaci said, "For a company coming to the United States, they certainly need to go into the City Hall and make sure they understand completely what it is they need to be doing, plus they will find excellent resources at the City Hall, because every city is anxious to have the businesses located into their town. "That's my advice: If you find a city you are interested in, get into the city hall as soon as possible and start talking to them so that you can work together." liazhu@chinadailyusa.com Boston welcomes Chinese enterprise park Updated: 2016-02-29 04:41 By HEZI JIANG in Boston(China Daily USA) Wang Zhigang at the ceremony. HEZI JIANG/China Daily A Chinese-funded enterprise park has found a home in Boston. Representatives from the US and China gathered at the Massachusetts State House on Feb 26 to celebrate the launch of the Shanghai Zhangjiang Boston Enterprise Park. Initiated by the administrative committee of Zhangjiang Hi-Tech Industrial Development Zone, China's leading innovation hub in Shanghai, the new Boston park covers more than 73,000 square meters (785,000 square feet), with 12,000 square meters of office buildings. The new park is expected to foster innovation between the two countries by offering platforms to train and exchange talent, work on joint projects, trade scientific and technological achievements, and incubate new industries and companies. "By connecting China's Shanghai and America's Boston, we are putting two very strong innovative centers together," said Wang Zhigang, China's vice-minister of Science and Technology. "The cooperation will benefit not only the two cities, the two countries, but also the development of science and technology worldwide." Zhang Qiyue, Chinese consul general in New York, whose consulate serves 10 states in the Northeast, said the relationship with Massachusetts is an important one to China. For a long time, Chinese students have been studying in Massachusetts at schools such as Harvard University and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Economically, China's CRRC, the world's largest railcar maker, broke ground last year on a $60 million facility in Springfield. Two large Chinese insurers, China Life Insurance Group Co and Ping An Insurance Co, recently each invested $167 million into the redevelopment of Boston's Pier 4. Hainan Airlines launched direct flights between Boston to Beijing and Shanghai, and Cathay Pacific operates direct flights from Boston to Hong Kong. As Massachusetts Governor Charlie Baker briefed the audience on all the increasing ties between Massachusetts and China, he pointed out that the new industrial park will bring the two even closer. 2016 China-US Tourism Year launched Updated: 2016-02-29 11:20 By Amy He in New York(China Daily USA) The US Commerce Department and the China National Tourism Administration, with Brand USA and partners, will promote travel between the two countries. Provided to China Daily Events, activities planned to push two-way visits China and the United States are scheduled to kick off the 2016 US-China Tourism Year at a ceremony in Beijing on Monday. Brand USA, a public-private partnership that promotes the US as a travel destination, is expected to host the ceremony for the year-long program of activities that was an outcome of President Xi Jinping's state visit to the US in September 2015. Throughout the year, the US Department of Commerce and the China National Tourism Administration (CNTA), in collaboration with Brand USA and other partners, will host events and activities to promote travel between the two countries. US President Barack Obama will be featured in a video message promoting the year on the US Embassy website starting on Tuesday. From the US perspective, the Tourism Year offers the chance to build on the current double-digit growth in arrivals from China, expanding the US share of the nearly 100 million Chinese visitors traveling each year. Both sides have attributed the key to achieving this goal to the 2014 announcement by the two governments of a reciprocal extension of visa validity for tourist and business travel from one to 10 years, and student travel from one to five years. An estimated 2 million Americans have visited China annually in recent years. In 2015, 2.5 million Chinese traveled to the US in 2015 and the number is expected to hit 2.97 million in 2016. Chinese visitors spent $23.8 billion while in the country in 2014, according to the Commerce Department, accounting for 57 percent of services exports to China. Travel and tourism is the US' largest services export, generating nearly $220.8 billion and supporting more than 1.1 million US jobs, according to the Commerce Department. "I think our hope by extending the visa validity - and I think some of the numbers are starting to prove this is the case - we'll have increased visitation," Kelly Craighead, executive director of the Commerce department's National Travel and Tourism Office, told China Daily. "We're really looking to get more visitors to come, to stay longer while they're here, and to come back again." Christopher Thompson, Brand USA's president and CEO, told China Daily that the tourism year gives "enormous platform" to the travel industry to increase visitor numbers and enhance travel experiences between the two countries. "If you look at the Chinese market, only 6 percent of people have passports - and we get 3 percent of that 6 percent - so there's just tremendous potential there," he said. "The year in tourism is going to give us a 'big stage under bright lights' and gives us a chance to raise our storytelling and build the relationships through CNTA and our Commerce Department, in ways that we probably couldn't have done," Thompson said. Brand USA is leading a visit to China for American tourism industry partners, with more than 30 representatives visiting Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou on a trip that began on Feb 24 and concludes on Friday. Chen Weihua in Washington contributed to this story. amyhe@chinadailyusa.com Tourism's role in relations emphasized Updated: 2016-02-29 11:20 By Chen Weihua in Washington(China Daily USA) To Wu Xi, deputy chief of mission at the Chinese Embassy in Washington, tourism is a good way to improve mutual understanding and trust among the Chinese and American peoples. "Tourism is an important carrier to boost people-to-people exchange between China and the US, an effective way to deepen the understanding and friendship between the two peoples, and an important source to boost bilateral economic and trade cooperation," Wu said in a press briefing at the embassy on Feb 26, ahead of a grand opening ceremony scheduled for Monday in Beijing to mark the 2016 China US Tourism Year. The 2016 China US Tourism Year was jointly announced by President Xi Jinping and US President Barack Obama during Xi's state visit to the US last September. It aims to increase travel and tourism between the two countries by enhancing the travel experience, increasing travelers' cultural understanding and expanding the appreciation of natural landscapes in each other's countries. Major events scheduled include one with 1,000 American tourists visiting the Great Wall, to be held in the wall's Jinshanling section in Hebei province on March 25; a tourism promotion in the US titled "Beautiful China-Maritime Silk Road"; a high-level China-US dialogue on tourism to be held in northwestern China's Ningxia autonomous region; and a grand closing ceremony at the end of the Tourism Year. Wu said China and the US will work together to provide more convenience for tourists in both countries. Wu cited tourism as a reflection of the win-win economic and trade relationship between the two countries. She said that on average 2.1 million US tourists visited China each year in the past few years, the third-largest foreign source of tourists in China. Meanwhile, China has also become the fourth-largest source of foreign tourists to the US. chenweihua@chinadailyusa.com Please turn JavaScript on and reload the page. Loading... Checking your browser before accessing the website. This process is automatic. Your browser will redirect to your requested content shortly. Please wait a few seconds. The Hanging Woman, published in 1931, was the eleventh of the seventy-two Dr Priestley mysteries written by Major Cecil Street under the pseudonym John Rhode. Although dismissed by critic Julian Symons as one of the less interesting products of what he dubbed the Humdrum School of detective fiction the John Rhode books are slowly gaining a degree of respectability amongst modern critics and have been enthusiastically championed by Curt Evans among others.The Hanging Woman is certainly a pure puzzle-plot mystery. And a fairly successful one.The novel opens with the inquest on the death of Andre Vilmaes, a young Belgian pilot employed by a wealthy scientist named Partington. Partington is involved in some rather esoteric scientific research. Vilmaes was returning by air from Brussels when his aircraft crashed on landing at Partingtons private landing field. Theres not the slightest question it was an accident and the inquest is a mere formality.A week later a young woman hangs herself at Wargrave House, a few miles from Partingtons estate. Wargrave House has the reputation of being haunted after another young woman hanged herself some years earlier. For some reason this latest suicide seems to have chosen to kill herself in the same room and in exactly the same manner. Superintendent Everley has no reason to doubt that this latest death is a suicide but he does mention the matter to his friend Superintendent Hanslet at Scotland Yard. Purely as a matter of routine Hanslet makes a few enquiries in London.This time the inquest is not quite so routine. A bombshell is dropped when the medical evidence reveals that this was no suicide - this was murder.Superintendent Hanslet has no obvious leads to follow up so he does the obvious thing - he tries to interest Dr Priestley in the case. This is always something of a challenge. Priestley is an irascible sort of fellow and while he is a keen amateur criminologist he will not involve himself in an investigation unless it happens to strike him as being particularly interesting. And there is never any way of predicting whether Priestleys interest will be aroused or not. In this case Superintendent Hanslet need not have worried - Dr Priestley is very interested indeed.Theres the usual array of possible suspects and red herrings. There is a suggestion of a romantic triangle. There is a young woman with a surefire plan to get very rich and there is another woman who may well have similar ideas.There are also lots of alibis, all of them complex and all of them apparently watertight. This is a book for detective fiction fans who love stories involving railway timetables and calculations of the time it might have taken a particular suspect to travel from Point A to Point B by various means and by various routes. This is a style of detective fiction that has been much disparaged over the years but in the hands of a skilled practitioner (such as Freeman Wills Crofts) it can be immensely entertaining. John Rhode was certainly such a skilled practitioner, perhaps not quite as expert as Crofts (no-one did this sort of thing better than Crofts) but still very skilled indeed.Dr Priestley is a detective very much in the mould of Dr Thorndyke - a man of science who relies on hard evidence and rigorous logic. He is not much given to leaps of intuition. He belongs to another popular detective tradition as well - the detective who approaches crime-solving purely as a stimulating intellectual exercise. He does not concern himself with justice. As long as he can solve the puzzle to his own satisfaction he is content. Justice and the law are matters for policemen and he is no policeman. Priestley is an abrasive and eccentric character but having now read quite a few of the Dr Priestley mysteries Ive grown rather fond of him.The Hanging Woman does what it sets out to do - it provides a thoroughly enjoyable puzzle in which much of the emphasis is not so much on the identity of the murder as on how the murderer managed to commit the crime and cover his tracks.Highly recommended. The Vatican Information Service is a news service, founded in the Holy See Press Office, that provides information about the Magisterium and the pastoral activities of the Holy Father and the Roman Curia...[ ] prices rose today, boosted by hopes strengthening growth in top consumer the US will soak up a global supply glut that has weighed on . At around 0830 IST, The US benchmark West Texas Intermediate for delivery in April rose 15 cents to $32.93 a barrel on the New York Mercantile Exchange. In London, Brent North Sea crude for April delivery was also higher at $35.55 a barrel, up 45 cents. Chief market strategist Michael McCarthy at CMC in Sydney said better-than-expected US growth and manufacturing data pointed to stronger demand for . US durable goods orders jumped 4.9 per cent in January, after two months of declines, data showed yesterday. The Commerce Department then surprised analysts on Friday by revising up fourth-quarter GDP to one percent growth, from 0.7 per cent. prices have fallen some 70 per cent from a mid-2014 high over concerns of a lasting surplus of supplies, at a time when growth in top consumers like China is slowing. Crude rallied last week on hopes top producers will cut output, but McCarthy said traders have "heavily discounted" speculation of a deal between members of the OPEC cartel. "Amongst traders OPEC has zero credibility, I don't think that as an organisation it factors into thinking of the end users of the market... Traders just have no faith that OPEC has the capacity to do anything," he said. Saudi Arabia, as well as Qatar and Russia, last week announced a preliminary deal to freeze output at January levels, should other major producers followed suit. But Saudi Arabia, OPEC's largest oil producer, has since ruled out a production cut and Iran has dismissed joining a freeze. Data on manufacturing activity in China will help set the tone for this week's oil price movements, said Sanjeev Gupta, head of the Asia-Pacific Oil and Gas Practice at EY. Coroners tragic conclusion on mystery disappearance of teen backpacker A coroner has handed down her findings on the Belgian backpacker who disappeared almost without trace in an idyllic New South Wales tourist town more than three years ago. Jim Chalmers warns disaster floods will weigh on GDP growth Treasurer Jim Chalmers has revealed the "initial estimate" the recent flooding would have on the economy but warns costs associated could be "even more significant" ahead of his first federal budget on Tuesday. Limited value: Liberal Senator against royal commission into COVID Liberal Senator Jane Hume acknowledged the long-term effects of lockdowns and school shutdowns but said Australia fared well compared to other countries. Heavy rain, hail and more flood warnings for four states this weekend Millions of residents along the east coast have been told to brace for more wet weather this weekend, with warnings of large hailstones for Friday and severe thunderstorms bringing heavy rain to already flooded river systems. The Washington Merry-Go-Round pays tribute to the controversial themes of Drew Pearson and Jack Anderson, adding the significance of commentary to the relationship of raw political power and financial influence. its a blog about my life. I can tell whatever I want to Back in 2011 I commented on the birth of a new nation--South Sudan--which had essentially "divorced" itself from Sudan. Here's what I said about it at the time: The population of the new country is estimated to be somewhere between 7.5 and 9.7 million, and it is described by everyone as one of the poorest nation's in the world, although it does have oil reserves, and apparently has been getting some direct foreign investment from China. However, there are still rebel groups working in the new nation, so it will probably have a rocky start to life, hampered by very low levels of literacy, and very high rates of infant and maternal mortality. Sadly, it seems that things are probably worse now than at the country's "birth," as Nicholas Kristof reports in today's NYTimes Its impossible to calculate the death toll, but it seems to me plausible that as many civilians are dying in the war here in South Sudan as in Syria. One reason its hard to estimate is that many civilian deaths here come not from bullets or barrel bombs, but from starvation and disease arriving as a direct result of war and ethnic cleansing. Ive been traveling through some of the areas most affected by fighting, in both government- and rebel-controlled areas, and they are in ruins that remind me of Darfur. Villages have been burned, hospitals pillaged, schools closed, boys castrated and women kidnapped and raped. It is easier to find women and girls who have been gang-raped than who are literate; in one village, a traditional birth attendant told me that she had recently assisted with 10 pregnancies caused by soldiers. Roads are dangerous and often impassable, and there are no real government services except executions. It is not the kind of place where the Demographic and Health Surveys can go (nor is Sudan--the most recent DHS there was in 1990), so we can't know for sure what is happening demographically. All we can be sure about from Kristof's first-hand report is that it isn't good. I have naked pictures of you: please give generously (or send more naked pictures) Bobby Jindal is by no conventional rational definition a leader. He took one of the most thoroughly corrupt and messed up states in this countryand somehow managed to leave Louisiana in far worse shape than he found it. You can do that when your goal isnt to make your state a better place, but to use your position as Governor as a platform for self-promotion and pursuit of grander ambitions. In Jindals case, he wanted to be Presidentwithout having the integrity and honesty to recognize or admit that he shouldnt be allowed to manage a Dairy Queen, much less sit behind the big desk in the Oval Office. Some Republicans actually do understand that ideology is separated from idiot by only a few consonants. Some of these folks have the cojones to call out their party for its collective willingness to traffic in fantasy, disinformation, ignorance, propraganda, and dangerous dishonesty. Newell Normand is one of the few on the Right who, while admitting to being a Republican, isnt beyond calling out those whove done truly, deeply stupid and destructive things in the name of their own self-interest for truly, deeply stupid and destructive reasons. Near the top of my guilty pleasures list, just below Blue Bells Key Lime Pie ice cream and womens beach volleyball, is watching Republicans eat their young. I especially love it when that rarest of breeds, a Republican with integrity and a functional grip on reality, publicly dismantles those responsible for leading the GOP (and with it, the country) down a rabbit hole . Republican Sheriff Newell Normand might be a good ol boy from Jefferson Parish in Louisiana, but that didnt stop him from lobbing a dose of reality at the Metropolitan Crime Commissions annual awards luncheon on Tuesday. According to a video of the speech posted by WUVE , Normand bad-mouthed the GOPs Beltway establishment and elected officials, notorious tax cutter Grover Norquist and called former Louisiana Gov. Bobby Jindal an idiot, equating him to cult leader Jim Jones. Normand fully admits that he endorsed and supported Jindal when he ran for governor, but that Jindals leadership destroyed the state that Normand holds dear. What a mess. Bobby Jindal was a better cult leader than Jim Jones, he said to laughter and applause from the audience. Normand accused Jindal of working after his reign to rewrite history when the rest of the state doesnt even know what history is. Much like other states with Republican governors like Kansas and Oklahoma, Louisiana faces a substantial budget shortfall, to the tune of $2.5 billion. Jindal is telling the world that he did a phenomenal job as governor and Normand is furious about it. We have to just say no! Normand said. Im a Republican but Im not a hypocrite. We have to look at ourselves critically as a party and figure out where we are and what were going to be about. He admitted to the audience that he was partly at fault because he endorsed that idiot, but said that it was time to move toward solutions. Due to the budget problems, Normand says that the state will be cutting funding to mental health which causes more problems for law enforcement officers. The state also plans to close five state prisons that houses 8,000 inmates. We better get concerned. We better wake up. We better be honest, Normand said. We better talk about the issues because we are going to pay the price. He continued saying that the state cannot cut its way to a balanced budget because doing so will cut the resources necessary for law enforcement officers like him to do their job safely and effectively. Regardless of whether ones a Democrat or a Republican, the one thing I admire above all else in a politician- if only because its such a rare commodity- is honesty. Normand at least has the courage to point out what should be obvious to anyone trying to figure out what in the Hell happened in Louisiana on Gov. Jindals watch. By any truly honest measure, what transpired was the equivalent of Nero fiddling while Rome burned. Jindal was so focused on burnishing his Social Conservative bona fides that he almost completely neglected the job he was elected to do. What he didnt neglect, he boogered things up so thoroughly his successor will likely spend his entire term trying to undo the damage done. Its not all Jindals fault, of course; Normand and the voters of Louisiana elected and re-elected one of the most thoroughly inept leaders in the history of American governance. Louisiana is a state with a long and not so proud record of official ineptitude and corruption. Louisianans meekly acquiesced in Jindal ratcheting up the states budget deficitbecause he was far more heavily invested in proving to Conservative culture warriors that he was one of them. And I have to listen to my Republican counterparts talk about gobbledigook. Blah, blah blah And Im so sick and tired of hearing: Obama, Obama, Obama. You know how much intellect it takes to blame something on somebody else? This much! he said holding his hand up to indicate zero. Propose a solution. Work together. He closed by comparing politics to being married and asked how many people in the audience refuse to compromise in their marriages. On this count, I couldnt agree with Normand more. I may be a confirmed Bleeding-Heart Leftie ComSymp, but even I understand the reality of politics, which is that you will never EVER get everything you want. The late Tip ONeill once described politics as the art of the possible, a truism Republicans in Congress have tossed out like yesterdays garbage. In todays political environment, too many on the Far Right equate compromise with capitulation- anything short of utterly destroying and completely crushing opponents under their boot heels is a defeat. It shouldnt be controversial to hold forth about how this is a damned poor way to run a government. Governments may be run by politicians, but while politicians run on ideology, governments themselves cant function effectively if they arent managed based on real world facts. Denying those facts while plowing ahead is a recipe for disasteror in the case, Bobby Jindal. Louisianans have only themselves to blame for electing an inept, incompetent dilettante lacking even the most basic management skills, never mind anything even faintly redolent of a functional grip on reality. Propose a solution. Work together. That shouldnt take on the patina of a radical idea, yet in the feverishly ideological world of Republican politics, where smug arrogance is the Prime Directive, its an idea not even worth consideration. A very wise man once said, Lead, follow, or get the Hell out of the way. It seems a good time for Republicans to lose their collective arrogance and belief in their unquestioned moral superiority and take that advicebefore they run this country into the ground. 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29 (1) May 11 (1) Jul 11 (1) The Wisconsin State AFL-CIO, which represents working families in both the public and private sector across the state of Wisconsin, has endorsed JoAnne Kloppenburg for Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice. The Wisconsin AFL-CIO will activate its member-to-member political program to help get out the vote and engage union members in the April 5, 2016 election by hosting door-to-door canvasses, phone banks, worksite leaflets and mail to union households. JoAnne Kloppenburg is the best candidate to bring balance and fairness to Wisconsins Supreme Court, said Phil Neuenfeldt, President of the Wisconsin AFL-CIO. Kloppenburg will bring a wealth of knowledge and experience and apply the law fairly to all citizens. Unlike her opponent, Kloppenburg is not handpicked by Gov. Scott Walker and corporate special interests to advance their destructive and partisan agenda on the state of Wisconsin. Unlike Rebecca Bradley, JoAnne Kloppenburg will not be a rubberstamp for Scott Walkers agenda. JoAnne Kloppenburg is ready to protect the rights of citizens and workers and stand up for the people of Wisconsin. Observations of a librarian and quiltmaker who values the connections between and among people and organizations. Please contact E. B. Davis at writerswhokill@gmail.com for information on guest blogs and interviews. Interviews for October: 10/5 Carolina Crimes: Rock, Roll and Ruin 10/12 Alicia Beckman, Blind Faith 10/19 J. Woollcott, A Nice Place To Die 10/26 Carol J. Perry, High Spirits If youre looking to try out an online casino, there are several things that will help you make a decision. Heres what you should look for when choosing an online casino Are they regulated? A lot of the larger ones have licenses issued by the authorities in their respective regions, so its worth checking this first. Do they offer games from different software providers? Some casinos just use one software provider and limit your selection. This is fine if you like playing those types of games but you may want to check other casinos as well. What does their payout percentage look like? The payout rate refers to how much money you can expect to win after every bet. A high payout rate means youll be able to play more often without having to worry about losing all your money. Its also important to know the minimum and maximum bets allowed on each game. If youre going to play roulette, for example, then you probably dont want a casino with a minimum bet of less than $2.50 or even lower than that. The players used to play the game slot online in the land based casinos in the past time. But now with time after the invention of the online casinos players play the game slot online. Online platform provide the players with the convenience in playing and even better winning. Even after keeping a good percentage of the profits, they distribute good funds to players. How many games do they offer? There are lots of different types of games to choose from. Roulette, blackjack and poker are some of the most popular options, but you might find slots, video pokers, video bingo and others as well. You can usually filter these games down to only show the ones that interest you best, so make sure that your list isnt too long! Is there a bonus offer? Many online casinos offer free bonuses as part of their welcome package which includes new players being awarded 100% up to $10 instantly, for example. These offers are great but not everyone has access to them all the time (and some require you to deposit real money). If youd prefer to avoid paying a fee, some casinos offer no-deposit bonuses where you can get a certain amount of funds before you need to put any actual money into the account. These are usually offered alongside welcome bonuses, so make sure you read both parts of the terms and conditions carefully before signing up. Does it offer live dealer games? Live dealers are much preferred by many over regular virtual versions, so it pays to check this option out too. Most online casinos now offer live dealer games in addition to their regular offerings, allowing you to experience the thrill of the real thing without needing to leave home. Now that youve got an idea of what to look for when choosing an online casino, heres some tips for making the right choice It really comes down to personal preference. No two people are exactly alike, so everyone has an opinion on what they like and dislike about each casino. That said, here are some things to consider in order to narrow down your choices Popularity. Check out reviews, forums and Facebook pages to see what other people think of the casino. Also, ask around at work or friends houses who they would recommend to you. You could always take a look at the casinos website too, to see what kind of information they provide about themselves. Reputation. Find out what the general public thinks about the casino. Check out any customer reviews on sites like Trustpilot, Amazon and Google Play to find out more. As far as gaming goes, you can also check out the Better Business Bureau to see whether there have been any complaints against the casino. Security. Make sure the casino uses SSL encryption to secure its transactions, meaning that your private data stays safe during transactions. Other than that, look for security seals on the site itself and verify that theyre legitimate. You can also check out the casinos privacy policy to see how they handle confidential information. Payment methods. Its good to have multiple payment options available, especially if you plan to play frequently. Its also nice to find a casino that accepts cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum. If youre worried about safety, you can always opt for a credit card or PayPal instead. With all those criteria in mind, heres our top picks Betway: Betway is a relatively new UK casino offering online gambling to residents of the United Kingdom and European Union. They offer hundreds of games across both land based and digital platforms, with plenty of top software providers like Net Entertainment, Microgaming and Yggdrasil Gaming Network. With a generous welcome offer that gives players 100% up to 100, you really cant go wrong with Betway. Coral Casino: Coral Casino is operated by the same company that runs the famous Caribbean casino, Grand Reef. Like many casinos, Coral Casino offers a wide variety of games, including plenty of video slots and table games. New players can benefit from a huge 100% match bonus up to 1000, while existing customers enjoy 25% cash back on deposits made within 48 hours of opening an account. Ladbrokes Casino: Ladbrokes Casino is owned by the same company as the famous bookmaker that started life in 1921. With more than 500 games from leading software providers such as Amaya, NetEnt and Microgaming, you wont be disappointed by the quality of the games here. New players get a 200% match bonus up to 500, while existing customers can claim 35% cashback on their first three deposits. Paddy Power Casino: Paddy Power is another Irish-owned casino that operates throughout Europe. Not only does Paddy Power Casino offer traditional casino games like blackjack, roulette and slots, but it also provides a full range of sports betting, including football, tennis, boxing and horse racing. New players can receive a massive 100% match bonus up to 200, while existing customers can claim 35% cashback on their first three deposits. William Hill Casino: William Hill Casino is one of the biggest names in the industry, operating in Europe, Asia and North America. Founded in 1984, this online casino has more than 400 games to choose from, including slots and table games, with a wide array of software providers like WagerLogic, Big Time Gaming and Rival. Bonus: 100% Match Bonus up to 100 Register Now Betway: 100% Match Bonus up to 100 Claim Now Coral Casino: 25% Cash Back on Deposits Claim Now Ladbrokes Casino: 35% Cash Back on First 3 Deposits Claim Now Paddy Power Casino: 100% Match Bonus up to 200 Claim Now William Hill Casino: 100% Match Bonus up to 200 Claim Now If youre interested in trying out an online casino but arent quite ready to commit to one, why not try out one of the many no deposit casinos weve reviewed? You can test drive various casinos completely risk-free, so you can feel confident about your choice before you make a single penny deposit. Feb 29, 2016 | By Tess As 3D printers become more mainstream and increasingly available to the public, with various models even costing under $500, certain concerns have arisen surrounding additive manufacturing technologies and its potential health effects. In 2013, The Department of Civil, Architectural and Environmental Engineering from the Illinois Institute of Technology published a report which found that certain 3D printers, without filtration systems of their own, produced ultra fine particle concentrations (UFPs) that could be potentially harmful to ones health. To help makers who may be 3D printing in less ventilated spaces such as classrooms, offices, or homes startup 3DPrintClean has developed 3D printer enclosures which filter out any potentially harmful particles that may be released during the 3D printing process. 3DPrintClean, founded by James Nordstrom of New Jersey, has recently launched a Kickstarter campaign for its 3D Printer Lightweight Enclosure and Filtration System. The 3D printer enclosures are designed to effectively filter the contaminated air using a patent-pending recirculating filtration technology, reducing the concentration of UFPs until the air is clean and the enclosure is safe to open. The tent-like structures in which you are meant to place your 3D printer in are available in two sizes, 600mm x 600mm x 600mm (the Lightweight600) and 800mm x 800mm x 800mm (the Lightweight800) and can accommodate most desktop 3D printers, from most Ultimaker, Reprap, Makerbot, Printrbot models, just to name a few. The 3D printer Lightweight Enclosure and Filtration System offers a fully enclosed printing space that filters out potentially harmful particles while at the same time letting you fully view your print in progress through its three plastic window panesif your print is light-sensitive you can also block out light with the included window covers. The 3D printer enclosure also comes equipped with dual cable seals, excess heat dissipation, and an insulated interior, which helps to not only keep your environment properly ventilated but maintains an optimal build temperature helping to reduce warping and cracking of your final print. 3DPrintClean, which previously developed a line of commercial enclosure and filtration systems for 3D printers (pictured below) developed their Lightweight line of enclosures in an effort to create an affordable but functional way to ventilate 3D printing environments. Through their Kickstarter campaign, pledgers can purchase a 600mm Lightweight Enclosure (with one filter included) for $399, and an 800mm one for $449, in comparison to $999 for a Desktop600 Enclosure, and $1,199 for a Desktop800 Enclosure. For a higher pledge, backers can receive up to six filters, which the company suggests should be replaced every three months. The estimated delivery time for the enclosures is July 2016, if their goal of $6,000 is reached within the next month. Destop600 Enclosure The 3D printer enclosures are still in development, as the company plans to add optional accessories such as a heater, thermal cutoff, spool holder, LED lighting, and automated fire suppression system. The color and window size of the final product may also reportedly vary from the prototypes pictured. To learn more about 3DPrintCleans 3D Printer Lightweight Enclosure and Filtration System, check out the video below: Posted in 3D Printer Accessories Maybe you also like: David wrote at 2/29/2016 8:36:44 PM:Things are getting ridiculous... by Dwight Furrow Plunging into a bowl of chili differs from a dog's dinner only by degrees. Slobbering, slurping, and gnashing, the dense but yielding meat mingles with the earthiness of dried peppers. The gathering heat pleads to be chased with a swallow of cold, bitter beer that cuts the tension with a flood of endorphin-induced satisfaction. Well, it's not all that specialjust a bowl of chili. But the simple act of consumption is undeniably rewarding. Food and drink provide us with an immediate hedonic reactionno thinking, no analysis, no bothersome complexity. Our own likes and dislikes rule without judgment. You either like it or you don't and no one can tell you you're wrong (if you put away the calorie counter). Such unreflective feasting is not exactly information-rich, but it is not utterly blind either. Dominant flavors and textures are familiar and thus instantly recognizable. But each forkful is more or less like the other and any evolution on the palate is buried by the next rapidly following mouthful. The satisfactions of this sort of eating can be had while thinking about more important matters like world peace or getting your nails done. We all eat like this sometimes. Our nature dictates it. Evolution designed us, under conditions of scarcity, to crave such brute pleasure as a hedge against tomorrow when food might be unavailable. Life would be diminished if we could not enjoy this kind of eating. But another kind of eating is possible and ultimately more important. With some focused attention, even a simple bowl of chili has interesting imensions: a slight smokiness from the bacon and charred chunks of beef, an unexpected fruity note from an abundance of aji panca chiles, and multiple savory layers from hours of slow cooking that we can appreciate only by attending to the shifting balance of flavors as they evolve on the palate. In a bowl of chili, there is food for thought as well as for consumption. In fact, there is more complexity than can be grasped in one sitting. Thoughtful eating requires sustained cognitive attention over many meals if one aspires to understand the subtle significance of the variety of pepper or cut of meat used. Chili is one of those dishes about which families feud and geographical regions remonstrate, and the search for just the right secret ingredient to distinguish one's recipe can become a life-long quest. We engage all of our mental faculties when we notice how flavors interact, attend to the chef's expression of particular aspects of the ingredients, and imagine the cultural heritage behind what we are eating when we recall the regional origins displayed in the dish. This interplay of understanding, memory, and imagination is inherently pleasurable. But this pleasure results from contemplation, concentration, training, and the satisfactions of discovery. It is work. Intellectual labor. Is it worth it? The virtue of a thoughtful approach to pleasure is that it multiplies pleasure-and in the realm of pleasure more is usually better. We too often think of pleasure as a mere sensation that passively afflicts us and then disappears once the source of the pleasure has been consumed. But this limited understanding leaves too much pleasure on the table. In fact, pleasure invites thought. Pleasure intensifies perception, makes it stand out from the course of day-to-day experience. It thus intensifies our interest in the source of pleasure, and the whys and wherefores that make the pleasure intelligible. Pleasure, having become a mystery, is no less pleasurable and when the mystery is solved the pleasure of discovery is a bonus that ramifies into the future. Subsequent experiences of that pleasure thus become more meaningful and more rewarding because we notice things we could not have discerned before. The discovery that aji panca chiles have a fruity flavor encourages us to focus on those fruity notes in the chili that we might pass over if we lacked that expectation, which enables us to draw precise contrasts with recipes using different combinations of chiles. Furthermore knowing that aji panca chiles originate in Peru reminds us of the migration patterns of populations, the inherent instability of cultural boundaries, or the effects of climate on ingredients. There is a lot to think about in that bowl. Reflective eating wrests differences from homogeneity and relationships from isolated instances. It identifies the source of an ingredient, the variety of its uses, and the way different people perceive it. It traces the way dishes, ingredients, and their cultures provoke our imagination, enable us to speculate, hypothesize, plan, or dream. All of these benefits are generated from what at first seems a simple hedonic response. Thoughtful eating can change the self as well. When pleasure becomes thought, we manage, at least to some degree, to overcome the limitations of personal preference. We come to see the dimensions and value of something even if at first we don't like it. It has meaning beyond personal interest or a simple yea or nay. But more importantly, when pleasure becomes thought, it also becomes discourse. We mistakenly think of pleasure as something purely subjective and private-of course we experience pleasure with our own mind and senses. But pleasure is heightened when we are able to share it, and the more we can think and talk about pleasure, the more sharable it becomes. Ultimately, this question about the value of thoughtful eating is a question about what kind of life to lead. That is too big a topic for this humble blog post. But surely a life devoted to squeezing every ounce of value from each experience is intrinsically valuable and a worthy candidate for a good life. This cannot be accomplished without thought. The problem with simple (unreflective) pleasures is that they leave too much value on the table, too much beauty not experienced, too much potential unfulfilled. As Mark Twain wrote Intellectual 'work' is misnamed; it is a pleasure, a dissipation, and is its own highest reward. (From A Connecticut Yankee) But all this thinking makes me hungry. A bowl of chili and a beer sounds just right. For more on thoughtful eating see American Foodie: Taste, Art and the Cultural Revolution or visit Mindful Eating 2, an Edible Arts blog. by Jonathan Kujawa On a Friday night two weeks ago the US Supreme Court quietly announced they wouldn't hear a challenge to a lower court's order that North Carolina should redraw it's congressional districts. There wasn't much point in hearing the case. With Scalia gone the Court was widely expected to vote 4-4 on the case and ties go to whomever won the previous round. The case revolved around North Carolina's Districts 1 and 12. The lower court ruled that they were gerrymandered to pack more black voters into these districts. While gerrymandering is now a worldwide sensation, the US invented it and are true masters of the art. Even a glance at NC District 12 makes it obvious that some fishy business is at work. A bow-legged cowboy could walk the length of NC 12 without touching either side: From Wikipedia. North Carolina is hardly the only offender. Illinois District 4 is sometimes called The Earmuffs thanks to its bizarre shape. It's one thing to eyeball a district and guess that the ghost of Governor Elbridge Gerry was at work, but I'd rather quantify somehow that a district is overly gnarled. As I pondered this last week I noticed that, in contrast to a nice, compact geometric shape like a circle or square, the long, twisted shape of NC 12 and IL 4 has a lot of perimeter for the given area. A reasonable measure of the disfigurement of a shape is the ratio of perimeter to area. In fact, for reasons we'll discuss in a moment, we want the ratio of the square of the perimeter to the area. Let's call this the distortion of the shape [1]. In formula form distortion is given by: The reason we use the square of perimeter is that we want distortion to be what a geometer would call unitless. We want the distortion of a shape to be the same regardless of which units we use when measuring. Meters, miles, furlongs, and light years should all be equally good when calculating distortion. To put it another way, we want distortion to measure an intrinsic quality of our shape and not depend on the scale we use. It shouldn't matter if we draw a square big or small when we calculate its distortion. Indeed, a square with side length x has perimeter 4x and area x2. The ratio of these two would be 4/x and would get ever smaller as the square grows in size. It would also vary if were to switch from meters to centimeters to millimeters. On the other hand, the distortion of every single square in the world is 16. A square is pretty compact, but we can do slightly better. Just as a bubble forms a sphere because this is the shape which minimizes surface area for a given volume, a circle gives us the smallest perimeter for a given area. What's the distortion of a circle? Well, we all know that a circle of radius r has perimeter 2r and area r^2 and a quick calculation shows that the circle has distortion 4 (which is about 12.57). On the other hand, using circles to make congressional districts isn't very practical. Whatever their virtues, circles are very inefficient if your goal is to cover a state or country [2]. Our gold standard, then, is the square's distortion of 16. What about congressional districts? How the heck do we find the perimeter and area of crazy shapes like these? Nowadays we have GPS and the like, but not so long ago the planimeter was the height of technology. Like the slide rule, the planimeter is a marvel of mechanical computation. The American Mathematical Society has a very nice article on how planimeters work. In day to day usage, all you need to do once you've set up your planimeter is follow your shape with the tracer. The measuring wheel turns whenever you move in the direction of the wheel. Once you've done the full loop, you can read off how much the wheel has turned, multiply by the appropriate scaling factor and, voila!, you have your area. How in the world does the number of turns of the wheel measure the area? This is the miracle of Green's Theorem. It says you can integrate across the surface of a shape by instead doing an integral on the boundary. But integrating the constant 1 across the surface gives the area. As the wheel rolls, it's secretly doing the necessary integral on the boundary. Unfortunately I don't have a planimeter handy. Fortunately I live in the computer age. Through Google you can obtain a map of all the Congressional districts and Google Earth will let you calculate the perimeter and area of any district you like. There are 435 Congressional districts [3]. I didn't check them all, but it turns out to be surprisingly addictive to eyeball Google's map and try to beat your current high and low distortions. Here's a few I calculated with no claim that this is particularly representative: Remember, the square is our gold standard and it has distortion 16. Wyoming 1 is a close second, which is no surprise since it's pretty darn close to being a square itself. In fact, I didn't round it off just so that you could see that it's not actually square. For the rest I rounded for reasons we'll discuss in a moment. Based on my unscientific sample, it looks like a distortion of less than 150 or so is pretty common. Illinois 4 suspiciously stands out at 216, though. Before we beat up on Illinois 4 too much, we should acknowledge that distortion has some flaws. The biggest, of course, is that drawing Congressional districts is about people, not geometry. It's about the principle of One Person, One Vote. The endless legal wrangles are over whether or not you should count the number of people, the number of citizens, or the number of voters; if you should take race into account; if political affinities should play a role, etc. [4] These sorts of thorny questions are why the Supreme Court Justices get the big bucks. It is true that you could define a more sophisticated notion of distortion which takes these factors into account, but just because it's math doesn't make it value neutral. By deciding what counts and how to weigh it, you are deciding the outcome. Deep societal questions aside, distortion leads to equally deep mathematical questions. I mentioned above that I rounded off the distortions of the Congressional Districts. The boring reason is that there is surely some error in the Google data. If the lengths and areas are off by a few miles one way or the other, it makes no sense to worry about the 4th decimal place in the result. The much more interesting reason is in the devilishly subtle question: How long is the perimeter of Arkansas's 4th District? The right side of Arkansas 4 is the Mississippi River. If I were to measure with a mile long measuring stick, I would miss many of the smaller bends and turns. If I used a yardstick, I would do much better but would still miss various small eddies and dips in the riverbank. Even at a nanometer I'd be missing the ins and outs of the atoms which make up the shoreline of Ol' Man River. In a famous paper of the same name which appeared in 1967, Benoit Mandelbrot asked How long is the coast of Britain?. Based on work of Lewis Fry Richardson, Mandelbrot proposed what we now call the fractal dimension as a measure of the irregularity of a shape. A perfectly smooth curve will have fractal dimension 1. The west coast of Britain has fractal dimension of around 1.25. Unsettlingly, this irregularity means that, strictly speaking, it doesn't make sense to talk about the length of the coast of Britain (or the Mississippi River) [5]. It gets better! On of the earliest examples of a fractal is from the turn of the previous century and is called Koch's Snowflake. Imagine you start with an equilateral triangle where each side has length one. Now bump out the middle third of each side with an equilateral triangle which is one-third the size of the original triangle. Now each of the sides of this shape has length exactly one-third. On each of these sides you can bump out the middle third and add a proportionally smaller equilateral triangle. Each side of the shape will now have length exactly one-ninth. Keep doing this forever and the result is Koch's Snowflake. While the process continues forever, any given spot stops changing after finitely many steps and we can ask about the distortion of the Snowflake. Computing the area isn't too hard. An equilateral triangle with side length x has area (3/4)x2. You start with one triangle of side length one, add three of side length 1/3, add another twelve triangles of side length 1/9, and so on. All we have to do is sum up the areas of the infinitely many triangles we have added. If you haven't done it before, summing an infinite list of numbers sounds impossible. As we saw here at 3QD two years ago, it can be a dicey business. Fortunately, this time it turns out to be a run-of-the-mill sum you learn to do in advanced Calculus. If you start with an equilateral triangle of side length one, the area of the Koch Snowflake is precisely 23 (approximately 3.46). How about the perimeter? Well, we can play the same game and sum up the extra perimeter we add at each step. Once again we get an infinite sum. When we try to work it out, disaster strikes! As we include more and more edges, the sum of their lengths grows larger and larger without bound. Specifically, at every step the perimeter of the Snowflake grows by 1/3 and if you add enough 1/3's, you can get as large a number as you like. The perimeter of Koch's Snowflake is infinite! Which, of course, means the distortion of the Snowflake is also infinite. Clearly distortion should be used with some care. Incidentally, the fractal dimension of the Snowflake is a little over 1.26, which makes it only a little more fractally than the British coastline. What about North Carolina's Congressional Districts 1 and 12? The distortion of Districts 1 and 12 is off the charts at 315 and 426, respectively. Distortion may be flawed, but the folks drawing lines in North Carolina were clearly up to some serious shenanigans. [1] While writing this I discovered that distortion already has a name: it is essentially the isoperimetric quotient. I may be partial, but I prefer the more evocative distortion. The isoperimetric problem is the question of proving that the circle has the largest possible area among all shapes of the same perimeter. Even though it was known to the ancient Greeks, it wasn't until the 19th century that it was finally proven beyond doubt. [2] But covering shapes with circles does lead to the beautiful mathematics of circle packings. That will have to be for another time. [3] As Stephen Colbert fans well know. [4] While I lived in Athens, Georgia, the liberal college town was moved from one district to another to cut the knees out from under the local Democratic incumbent. [5] See the Coastline Paradox on Wikipedia. by Jalees Rehman A Belgian Iron 'scolds bridle' or 'branks' mask, with bell, used to publicly humiliate and punish, mainly women, for speaking out against authority, nagging, brawling with neighbors, blaspheming or lying. Can shame be good for you? We often think of shame as a shackling emotion which thwarts our individuality and creativity. A sense of shame could prevent us from choosing a partner we truly love, speaking out against societal traditions which propagate injustice or pursuing a profession that is deemed unworthy by our peers. But if shame is so detrimental, why did we evolve with this emotion? A team of researchers led by Daniel Sznycer from the Center for Evolutionary Psychology at the University of California, Santa Barbara recently published a study in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences which suggests that shame is an important evolutionary adaptation. According to their research which was conducted in the United States, Israel and India, the sense of shame helps humans avoid engaging in acts that could lead to them being devalued and ostracized by their community. For their first experiment, the researchers enrolled participants in the USA (118 participants completed the study; mean age of 36; 53% were female) and India (155 participants completed the study, mean age of 31, 38% were female) using the online Amazon Mechanical Turk crowdsourcing platform as well as 165 participants from a university in Israel (mean age of 23; 81% female). The participants were randomly assigned to two groups and presented with 29 scenarios: The shame group participants were asked to rate how much shame they would experience if they lived through any given scenario and whereas the audience group participants were asked how negatively they would rate a third-party person of the same age and gender as the participants in an analogous scenario. Here is a specific scenario to illustrate the study design: Male participants in the shame group were asked to rate At the wedding of an acquaintance, you are discovered cheating on your wife with a food server on a scale ranging from 1 (no shame at all) to 7 (a lot of shame). Female participants in the shame group were asked to rate At the wedding of an acquaintance, you are discovered cheating on your husband with a food server on a scale ranging from 1 (no shame at all) to 7 (a lot of shame). Male participants in the audience group, on the other hand, were asked to rate At the wedding of an acquaintance, he is discovered cheating on his wife with a food server on a scale ranging from 1 (I wouldn't view him negatively at all) to 7 (I'd view him very negatively). Female participants in the audience group rated At the wedding of an acquaintance, she is discovered cheating on her husband with a food server on a scale ranging from 1 (I wouldn't view her negatively at all) to 7 (I'd view her very negatively). To give you a sense of the breadth of scenarios that the researchers used, here are some more examples: You stole goods from a shop owned by your neighbor. You cannot support your children economically. You get into a fight in front of everybody and your opponent completely dominates you with punch after punch until you're knocked out. You receive welfare money from the government because you cannot financially support your family. You are not generous with others. For each of the 29 scenarios, the researchers created gender-specific shame and audience versions. The audience group reveals how we rate the bad behavior of others (devaluation) whereas the shame group provides information into how much shame we feel if we engage in that same behavior. By ensuring that participants only participated in one of the two groups, the researchers were able to get two independent scores shame versus devaluation for each scenario. The key finding of this experiment was that the third-party devaluation scores were highly correlated with the shame scores in all three countries. For example, here are the mean shame scores for the wedding infidelity scenario indicating that people in all three countries would have experienced a lot of shame: USA: 6.5 India: 5.7 Israel: 6.7 The devaluation scores from the third-party audience group suggested that people viewed the behavior very negatively: USA: 6.4 India: 5.1 Israel: 6.6 For nearly all the scenarios, the researchers found a surprisingly strong correlation between devaluation and shame and they also found that the correlation was similarly strong in each of the surveyed countries. The researchers then asked the question whether this correlation between personal shame and third-party negative valuation was unique to the shame emotion or whether other negative emotions such as anxiety or sadness would also correlate equally well with devaluation. This experiment was only conducted with the participants in the USA and India. The researchers found that even though the fictitious scenarios elicited some degree of anxiety and sadness in the participants, the levels of anxiety or sadness were not significantly correlated with the extent of devaluation. The researchers interpreted these results as suggesting that there is something special about shame because it tracks so closely with how bad behavior is perceived by others whereas sadness or anxiety do not. How do these findings inform our view on the evolutionary role of shame? The researchers suggest that instead of designating shame as an ugly emotion, it is instead an excellent predictor of how our peers would view our behaviors and thus deter us from making bad choices that could undermine our relationships with members of our community. The strong statistical correlations between shame and negative valuation of the behaviors as well as the universality of this link in the three countries indeed support the conclusions of the researchers. However, there are also so important limitations of these studies. As with many evolutionary psychology studies, it is not easy to ascribe a direct cause-effect relationship based on a correlation. Does devaluation lead to evolving a shame mechanism or is it perhaps the other way around? Does a sense of shame lead to a societal devaluation of certain behaviors such as dishonesty? It is also possible that the participants in the audience group responded with the concept of shame in the back of their mind even though they were not asked to directly comment on how shameful the act was. Perhaps their third-party assessments of how bad the behavior was were clouded by their own perceptions of how shameful the behavior would be if they themselves had engaged in it. Another limitation of the study is that the participants represented a young subgroup of society. The mean ages of 23 (Israel), 31 (India) and 36 (USA) as well as the use of an online Amazon Mechanical Turk questionnaire means that the study results predominantly reflect the views of Millennials. The similarities of the shame and devaluation scores in three distinct cultures are among the most remarkable findings of these studies. However, perhaps they are more reflective of a global convergence of values among the Millennial generation than an underlying evolutionary conservation of an adaptive mechanism. These limitations should not detract from the provocative questions raised by the studies. They force us to rethink how we view shame. Like all adaptive defense mechanisms, shame could go awry. Our immune function, for example, is an essential defense mechanism but an unfettered immune response can destroy the very body it is trying to protect. Perhaps shame acts in a similar fashion. A certain level of shame could help us function in society by promoting certain moral values such as justice, honesty or generosity. But an excess of shame may become a maladaptive prison which compromises our individuality. References: Daniel Sznycer, John Tooby, Leda Cosmides, Roni Porat, Shaul Shalvi, and Eran Halperin. (2016). Shame closely tracks the threat of devaluation by others, even across cultures Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences Image Credit: The image of the mask was obtained via Wellcome Images. by Misha Lepetic Facts all come with points of view/ Facts don't do what I want them to. ~ Talking Heads What is it with Silicon Valley and the disruption of education? Is it just another sector of public life that is moribund and therefore in need of a serious intervention, as if it were that friend who used to be fun and successful but is now just depressed and drinking too much? Or do Silicon Valley types have a chip on their shoulder perhaps they were forced to sit through one too many pointless lectures on Kant or Amazonian tribes or feminist critiques of Florentine art, and now that theyre calling the shots theyre going to fix this giant mess thats called higher education once and for all? (Trigger warning: the only people mentioned in this post are venture capitalists). In any case, into the ever-narrowing sweepstakes of who can make the absolutely dumbest assertions about the value of education steps Vinod Khosla, elder statesman and patron saint of tech bros in Silicon Valley and beyond. Khosla, a fabulously successful venture capitalist, has waded into the education wars with a broadside so breathtaking in its myopia that you would be forgiven for thinking that it was lifted from the satirical pages of The Onion. But before getting into Khoslas piece, lets set the stage with a look at a fellow-disruptors contribution to the debate. Libertarian investor Peter Thiel, also fabulously successful, has put forward $100,000 scholarships fellowships for young people who want to build new things instead of sitting in a classroom. Thiels mission is to pluck potential John Galts out of the stream of college-bound lemmings and give them the latitude to realize their entrepreneurial potential. He believes that college, as it is currently constituted, leads to stagnant thinking and a narrowing of ones horizons and potential. Which is odd, considering that most people go to college to have exactly the opposite experience. Be that as it may, anyone under the age of 22 is welcome to apply, which is a fairly dramatic, late-capitalist re-write of the countercultural edict to not trust anyone over 30. I actually dont have much of a problem with this, because Thiel is not trying to rewire the university system. He is providing more options for a vanishingly small group of people (104 so far since the fellowships 2010 inception), and Ive always been convinced that college or more specifically, a liberal arts education is not for everyone. It never has been, and it never will be. Thats not to say that it shouldnt be available for anyone who wants it. But it is a prime example of overreach when the system screws into peoples heads that everyone needs a college degree and that subsequently people waste their money getting a BA in communications, whatever that is. There are certainly people who dont need to go to college, and I like the fact that Thiel is providing more options, not less. * Compare this fairly surgical intervention with the opening klaxon of Khoslas essay: If luck favors the prepared mind, as Louis Pasteur is credited with saying, were in danger of becoming a very unlucky nation. Little of the material taught in Liberal Arts programs today is relevant to the future. If theres one thing I like about Silicon Valley types, its that they never leave you to wonder what theyre thinking. Unfortunately, further reading may give rise to the concern of whether they are thinking at all. Now I could be pedantic and, in a classically vindictive fashion that we liberal arts types allegedly enjoy, just grab an editors red pen and start marking up his essay, eg: Doesnt luck just happen, regardless of whether you are prepared? So how does a lack of preparation make one less lucky? Pasteur was referring to the fields of observation in his quote. How does that change the quotes meaning? Also, passive voice. But I will leave such pedantry aside. Its clear that Khoslas beef is with the system itself, which is in need of some serious re-jiggering. So lets move past the opening gambit and go to the second sentence Little of the material taught in Liberal Arts programs today is relevant to the future. Like what? Literature and history, for example. History especially is for chumps: Furthermore, certain humanities disciplines such as literature and history should become optional subjects, in much the same way that physics is today (and, of course, I advocate mandatory basic physics study along with the other sciences). And one needs the ability to think through many, if not most, of the social issues we face (which the softer liberal arts subjects ill-prepare one for in my view)Id like to teach people how to understand history but not to spend time getting the knowledge of history, which can be done after graduation. Now, Im not going to meet Khoslas arguments head on. Im sure more qualified, more eloquent people have already done so. What Im more interested in looking at are the consequences of this kind of thinking, or of what emerges when there is a collective bubble of this kind of thinking going on. A pretty good example of the fruits of an ahistorical worldview happened right about the time Khoslas essay bubbled up to the surface. Marc Andreessen, inventor of first truly successful web browser and once-scrappy underdog who fought Microsoft (and lost, forever enshrining his scrappiness), has since also become a very successful tech investor. In fact, as an investor in and board member of Facebook, hes really no longer much of an underdog at all. So when Free Basics, Facebooks initiative to bring free Internet access to India, was blocked, Andreessen tweeted in frustration Anti-colonialism has been economically catastrophic for the Indian people for decades. Why stop now? Oh, dear. Despite deleting the tweet, issuing an apology, as well as receiving a rebuke from Mark Zuckerberg himself, the Internet went nuts. It wasnt hard to spin out an analysis positing how what Facebook was doing in India with Free Basics was textbook colonialism. I think there is a fair amount of justification here, and no critic in his or her right mind would fail to take advantage of such a gorgeous faux pas as the one Andreessen served up. But lets keep things simple. Its all well and good to look at Andreessens quote as emblematic or symptomatic of a larger system of power or encroachment after all, thats what good liberal arts thinking does (cough). What leads a person to write that in the first place? I mean, how do you and I am being generous here confuse colonialism with anti-colonialism? And even if you were to substitute one for the other, the comment still doesnt make sense, except in some uber-sarcastic manner. Maybe he meant capitalism, as in: Anti-capitalism has been economically catastrophic for the Indian people for decades. Why stop now? This would demonstrate some familiarity of Indian history, at least during a few decades of the 20th century. But it still displays a fairly shocking ignorance of the country that India is today, and has been for a while. Part of the elegance of any analysis is knowing when to stop, and the older I get the more I favor brevity. So I will say this: Andreessen wrote what he did because he is ignorant. He is ignorant of the world around him, and we can go find the root of this steadfast ignorance in Khoslas exhortation that history is something to learn on your own time. Except when your temper tantrum exposes your ignorance of history, and for a brief moment we all get to wonder, Who the hell is this guy, and how did he get to such a powerful place in society? And, fortunately or unfortunately, thats all there is to it. * But the rot goes deeper still. Heres a much better example. A few years ago I had the opportunity to judge a few business plan competitions. This is actually more interesting than it sounds. Business plans, after all, are a form of literature, or at least a form of text. And like any text, one learns to read the genre for the hopes and fears of its authors. The hopes are writ large: products and services that promise to transform markets and better the lives of millions. The fears are smaller and require a bit more experience to ferret out, as they usually take the form of the financial assumptions that constitute an essential part of any business plan. But what one gets exceptionally sensitized to is the way a plan defines a problem space. Because the way one thinks about the problem has great bearing on the proposed solution. In fact, most business plans fail both as real plans and as closely reasoned arguments because the authors failed to think deeply enough about the problem. I was reminded of these business plans when a friend forwarded me an article on the disruption of prisons (in response to my most recent 3QD piece, on how technology will come to service various sectors of society that wed rather not spend time on). Much like Khoslas piece, this article at first seems like a parody. Enouragingly entitled How Soylent and Oculus Could Fix The Prison System it is nothing less than the reductio ad absurdum to solving the problem of prison. For example, prison violence is solved by virtual reality: By equipping every inmate with an Oculus Rift headset in his or her own cell, you could isolate prisoners from violence without isolating them from people. Put all the prisoners inside Second Life, Prison Edition, give them all a headset, and let them build virtual characters. You could design an awesome [sic] system for rehabilitation, give access to e-learning tools, Kindle books, Minecraft and other digital tools for creativity (prison is boring), psychologist sessions (the psychologist could log in remotely from anywhere in the world), and even handle all correspondence and prison visits from relatives and friends electronically. As the author enthuses, What this eliminates: prison yards, prison libraries, packages and letters secretly containing drugs or shanks. By using a carceral version of Second Life, gamification would teach them to be better citizens (think: badges!). Helpfully, a huge benefit is we could track everything that prisoners do. Once youve made your way through the whole post which is written with the utmost sincerity, as it includes cost breakdowns for everything youll consider Khosla to be a thinker of profound subtlety. Because when you leave prison, the years or decades spent in a virtual reality simulation will equip you just fine for living in the real world. The authors concern is actually with creating a smooth, hassle-free and economical prison stay. People fight? Ok, dont let them interact. Food is expensive? Feed them Soylent. Problem solved. Its almost as if the airlines hit upon their final solution for air travel just put everyone under general anesthesia from check-in until baggage claim (actually I have been hoping for this for some time). There is really no concern with what people actually do, whether its in prison or outside it. And understanding why people wind up in prison, well that would require history. In business plan parlance, this would be dismissed as out of scope. Now, if this had been a business plan submitted to me in competition, the first question for the author would have been, Whats the real problem here? Is it that prison is expensive, or is it that people keep returning to prison? Understanding the problem determines the contours of the solution. And if we agree that the purpose of doing prison differently is to lessen recidivism rates, then we have to ask ourselves, how do we prepare people to not come back into the system? I somehow doubt that teaching them to be really good at some dumbed-down version of Second Life is going to help them there. I suspect the answer is closer to providing some kind of socialization and support structure that is radically different from the structures that landed the inmates there in the first place. Interestingly enough, and just to prove that Im not some monomaniacally judgmental person, Chris Redlitz, another Bay area venture capitalist, has been taking the opposite tack: five years ago he founded The Last Mile, which started as a business and entrepreneurship program taught within the confines of San Quentin State Prison, and has since diversified into teaching inmates computer programming skills as well. It is the first program in the nation to do so, and so far none of its graduates have been reincarcerated. Now, just as not everyone should go out and get a liberal arts degree, Im sure that not every inmate who goes through the program is cut out to be an entrepreneur or a coder. But that is not really the point. The point is to offer the inmates a different social structure, a viable way of being in the world that was likely not open to them before. And this requires hard work, teaching, and human contact. It creates risk and uncertainty, which is something that the previous, virtual reality model seeks to eliminate entirely. In fact, it's kind of like the process of getting a liberal arts education. Huh! So I am curious: if these two ideas were to be presented to Khosla as competing business plans, which one would he fund? Because while Khosla might maintain that its not that history or Kafka are not important I would say that the mettle it takes to come up with an understanding of the problem, and any possible solution, is only possible if you have read history, and especially if you have read Kafka. Otherwise, we create a society where Soylent and Oculus VR will be good enough, and probably not just for prisoners, either. ACAs library of educational tools help members improve their business practices. ACA also holds the most popular industry conferences and offers credentialing for collectors, attorneys, and more. ACAs Training Zone subscription gives agencies access to almost all of our education for one low cost. (Bloomberg) Senator Ted Cruz and his wife, Heidi, paid $1.5 million in federal income taxes from 2011 through 2014 on adjusted gross income totaling more than $5 million, according to partial tax returns released in e-mails to reporters by the Republican presidential candidates campaign Saturday. The couples average federal tax rate over the four-year period was 29.9 percent. But because the releases didnt include schedules that would detail their sources of income or the deductions they claimed, the returns provide comparatively scant information. For example, its not clear how much of the income can be attributed to Heidi Cruz, who works as an investment manager for Goldman Sachs Group Inc. in Houston. The bank has said shes taking an unpaid leave of absence during her husbands presidential campaign. The salary for a U.S. senator is $174,000 a year. Also unclear from the disclosures: the couples contributions to charity. The Cruz campaign didnt immediately respond to a request for comment. Earnings Decline From the documentswhich are the first two pages of each return the couple filed over the four-year periodits clear that the Cruzes earnings took a hit after 2011, when they reported $1.7 million in adjusted gross income. In 2012, the year Ted Cruz was elected as the junior senator from Texas, they reported $1.1 million, and then in 2013, $970,193. By 2014, their adjusted gross income had rebounded to $1.2 million. In each return filed over the period, Cruz and his wife indicated that they had sought extended time to file and had prepaid certain amounts. Its not clear from the returns, which did not disclose the relevant statements, which financial dealings or years the extensions covered. In 2014, the couple indicated that they paid $166,887 alongside their request for a filing extension. For 2013, the figure was $85,000; in both 2012 and 2011 it was $45,000. Ted Cruz, 45, won the Iowa caucuses but has found himself grappling with Senator Marco Rubio, of Florida, for second place behind front-runner Donald Trump in subsequent contests. Cruzs campaign released his tax information late Saturday, hours after Rubio made a similar release of partial information. Partial Information Cruz told reporters that he was releasing only partial information because thats what Rubio did. If Marco wants to release the full thing for the recent years, Im happy to do so as well, Cruz said, according to a report by The Texas Tribune. "We just did it to match what the other candidates are doing. This is a competitive race. In a release, Cruz called on Trump to release his tax returns as well. Its possible Trump has been a significant donor to left-wing organizations, such as Planned Parenthood, which would seriously undermine his claim to be pro-life, Cruz said in the statement. However, if Trump were to release the same level of detail that Cruz released on Saturday night, no one could tell which charities had received money from him. Trump said on Thursday that he is being audited and wont release his tax returns until the audit is over. In releasing just partial tax information, Cruzs campaign lags that of Hillary Clinton, the Democratic frontrunner, who released full returns for several years. Similarly, Mitt Romney, the 2012 Republican nominee, released full tax returns for a limited number of years. (Bloomberg) Florida Senator Marco Rubio and his wife, Jeanette, reported $2.3 million in income over the past five years and paid $526,092 in federal income taxes, according to tax documents released by the presidential candidates campaign Saturday. In a release designed to prompt GOP front-runner Donald Trump to respond, Rubios campaign released five years of documentsthough it provided only partial returns, omitting the detailed schedules that would bring transparency into the couples income, charitable giving and tax strategies. The gross numbers without the schedules dont tell you anything, said Martin Shenkman, a tax lawyer and certified public accountant in Fort Lee, New Jersey. Rubios campaign didnt respond immediately to a request for comment. The recordswhich amount to the first two pages of each annual tax filing the Rubios made from 2010 through 2014show that they paid federal income taxes at the rate of about 23 percent. Coupled with prior returns from 2000 through 2009, which Rubio released when he ran for the U.S. Senate in Florida, the documents raise questions, Shenkman said. Hes attacking Trump on the same disclosure issues, but his own disclosures are obfuscatory, Shenkman said. Rubio released his tax information three days after 2012 Republican presidential nominee Mitt Romney called for the GOP candidates to show their tax information to voters. Among the documents that werent disclosed: Schedule C, which would have revealed how much of the Rubios income resulted from business interests, and Schedule E, which would show their income from rental real estate, royalties, partnerships, S corporations and trusts. For example, in the tax year 2012, the Rubios adjusted gross income soared to $929,439, almost four times the $276,059 they reported in the prior year, and more than five times 2010s amount, $183,826. Most of that 2012 income$711,243came from business interests, but without the Schedule C, its not clear precisely what those interests were. In 2012, Rubio published an autobiography, An American Son: A Memoir, which hit the New York Times bestseller list; his income for the year appears to reflect the books success. In addition, $34,002 of the amount came from rental real estate, royalties, partnerships, S corporations and trustsbut without the Schedule E, its also impossible to know details. In 2011, when the Rubios had adjusted gross income of $276,059, they reported no Schedule C business income. Their Schedule E income, however, was nearly three times that of 2012 -- $101,652. In 2012, the couple paid federal taxes of $254,694, an effective rate of 27.4 percent, the highest rate they paid in the past five years. The Rubio campaign said in a statement that accompanied the release that the effective federal tax rate paid by the Rubio family in each of the past five years has been in line with rates paid by Americans of similar income levels. Rubio, Floridas junior senator, has portrayed himself as a success story who grew up the son of a bartender and hotel maid in a working-class household and worked his way to the U.S. Senate. Hes said repeatedly that free enterprise allows opportunity for people on all parts of the economic spectrum. While Rubio has attempted to position himself as an alternative to Trumpscoring a series of shots at the GOP front-runner during the partys 10th debate in Houston on Thursdayhe placed a distant second in Tuesdays Nevada caucuses, second in South Carolina, fifth in New Hampshire and third in Iowa. Trump said on Thursday that he is being audited and wont release his tax returns until the audit is over and could not guarantee he would release them in time for the general election. In posting a link to Rubios taxes on Twitter, Rubios campaign communications director, Alex Conant, challenged Trump to do likewise. While Rubios release makes him the first of the three leading GOP candidates to release at least some material, the depth of his documentation lags well behind that of Democratic frontrunner Hillary Clinton, who released full returns. In 2012, Romney released schedules and details with his taxes as well. Texas Senator Ted Cruz, who has been battling with Rubio for second place behind Trump, released four years of tax returns late Saturday. Rubio, meanwhile, kept up his attacks on Trump Saturday. There comes a time when you have to stand up, he said Saturday in Huntsville, Alabama. I had to get a little medieval on him, and I did so because hes a con man. Of his own taxes, he told reporters Saturday, We just wanted to get it out there quickly so that people could see the summaries. A roundup of our favorite recent tax fraud cases. Phenix City, Ala.: Preparer Pamela Ann Smith, 56, of Lanett, Ala., has been sentenced to 51 months in prison for her role in a stolen-ID/refund fraud. According to court documents and evidence, between 2007 and 2012 Smith led a large-scale scheme from her tax prep business, Jaycal Tax Service. Smith recruited her son, Calvin Perry, and his friend, Ernest Simmons Jr., to participate in the scheme wherein Smith, Perry and Simmons opened multiple bank accounts and post office boxes, then filed more than 1,200 federal income tax returns using the stolen IDs of actual individuals. The returns sought more than $4 million in fraudulent refunds. U.S. Treasury checks were mailed to physical addresses and post office boxes under Smiths control and subsequently deposited into multiple bank accounts controlled by Smith, Perry and Simmons. Smith personally received more than $300,000 from this scheme. Smith pleaded guilty in November to one count of conspiracy to defraud the government with respect to filing false income tax refund claims and one count of aggravated ID theft. In addition to the prison term, Smith must serve three years of supervised release and pay $340,057 restitution. Burley, Idaho: Preparer Cruz Kelly Chacon, 42, has pleaded guilty to one count of assisting, advising and counseling clients to submit materially false federal income tax returns. According to the plea agreement, the IRS estimates that from 2008 through 2011, Chacon and some of her employees at Kellys Tax Service submitted more than 2,500 falsified returns, primarily by claiming unjustified credits such as the Child Tax Credit. This increased clients refunds, which helped Chacon generate business, authorities said. As part of her plea agreement, Chacon has agreed to pay $81,384 restitution. Sentencing is May 9. Memphis, Tenn.: Preparer Latoya Garrett, 41, has been indicted for filing materially false federal income tax returns that defrauded the government of nearly $130,000. According to the indictment, Garrett was a preparer at the Bryan Tax Service, Global Taxes and Tax Bank for tax years 2010 and 2011. IRS investigation discovered that many of the returns filed by Garrett contained false Schedule C income and expenses, false education credits and falsely claimed dependents on the returns of 13 taxpayers, some of whom had multiple returns. The taxpayers denied providing the information to Garrett. The total loss is $129,744.00. If convicted, she faces up to three years of imprisonment and a fine of $100,000 on each count. St. Louis: Tax prep firm owner Semere Tsehaye, 38, has been arrested after a grand jury issued an indictment on two counts of tax evasion. According to the indictment, from 2005 to 2011, Tsehaye owned and operated at least 20 Instant Tax Service franchise locations in and around East Saint Louis, Ill.; Kansas City, Kan.; and Kansas City, Mo., and St. Louis. Tsehaye owned and operated his ITS franchises using two entities named A&S Tax Service and ERI Enterprises. During 2010 and 2011, Tsehaye generated fraudulent financial summaries that understated the gross receipts generated by A&S and ERI and provided them to his tax return preparer, who used them to do Tsehayes federal individual income tax returns. These returns were false in that they underreported A&S and ERIs gross receipts by approximately $506,000 in 2010 and $1.03 million in 2011. If convicted, Tsehaye faces a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine on each count of tax evasion. Houston: The United States has filed to permanently bar John E. Carter, d.b.a Midwestern Financial Group, and Sulayman Mamadou Jarra, d.b.a. African Art Appraisal Services, from preparing false returns. According to the complaint, Carter promoted a tax evasion scheme to clients, telling them they could reduce their federal tax liability by supposedly donating African tribal art to an educational institution or museum. The complaint states that Carter provided his clients with an appraisal by Jarra that substantially overvalued the art, and that for many of the returns, the signature was forged on the IRS form where the institution purportedly acknowledged receipt of the art. Carter then used the false appraisal to prepare returns for clients, claiming false deductions for charitable donations, according to the complaint. In 2013, Jarra pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false tax returns; he received a sentence of probation. Carter was convicted in 2014 of five counts of willfully aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false returns and was sentenced to 41 months in prison. (Bloomberg) Donald Trumps disclosure that his tax returns have been under review by the Internal Revenue Service for the past 12 years reflects a very unusual level of scrutiny by tax authorities, according to a former Internal Revenue Service agent who now works as an accountant for wealthy people. He signed his name to a return in which the IRS is finding problems for the past 12 years, said Alan Olsen, the managing partner of Greenstein Rogoff Olsen & Co. LLP, an accounting firm in Fremont and Palo Alto, California that caters to wealthy Silicon Valley clients. Trumps disclosure, which emerged during a contentious GOP debate on Thursday in Houston, Texas, was a departure from prior statements about his tax returns. He has previously suggested to interviewers that his campaign was working on preparing the returns for release and that the process was time-consuming because of their complexity. For many years, Ive been audited every year, Trump said Thursday night. Twelve years or something like that. Strong Christian After the debate, Trump suggested to CNN interviewer Chris Cuomo that there might be an unsavory reason the IRS has targeted himbecause hes a strong Christian. The IRS released a statement Friday saying that audits of tax returns are based on the information contained on the taxpayers return and the underlying tax lawnothing else. Politics and religion do not factor into this, the agency said in the e-mailed statement. The audit process is handled by career, non-partisan civil servants, and we have processes in place to safeguard the exam process. Federal privacy rules prohibit the agency from discussing individual tax matters, according to the statement, but nothing prevents individuals from sharing their own tax information. The issue moved to the top of the agenda this week after Mitt Romney, the 2012 Republican nomineeand no stranger to controversy over tax returns himselfsaid in an interview with Fox News that Trumps tax returns may contain a bombshell. Romney speculated that Trumps personal tax documents might show that he is not as wealthy as he has claimed. On Thursday night, Romney needled Trump again, posting on Twitter: No legit reason @realDonaldTrump cant release returns while being audited, but if scared, release earlier returns no longer under audit. Trump, who has said hes worth more than $10 billion, has responded by calling Romney a failed candidate and posting on Twitter: Just for your info, tax returns have 0 to do w/ someones net worth. Bombshell Revelation Olsen said that Trumps revelation about 12 years of audits is something of a bombshell itself. If the IRS examines your tax return and finds no issues they will not audit your return again for two years, he said. If returns are properly prepared, the IRS typically goes away. Pressure on Trump to release tax information may only build through the weekend as his two main rivals for the GOP nomination announced plans to release their own tax documents. Senator Ted Cruz, who released some tax returns during his 2012 U.S. Senate race in Texas, said hell make more returns public as early as today. Senator Marco Rubio, who released some tax documents during his 2010 Senate race in Florida, said hell release additional information as well. On the Democratic side, Hillary Clinton has released several years worth of returns, through 2014, when she and former President Bill Clinton reported adjusted gross income of $27.9 million. Senator Bernie Sanders has released part of his 2014 return, on which he and his wife, Jane, reported $205,271 in adjusted gross income. The Revenant, the most spectacularly cinematic contender for Best Picture in years, did not take home that particular Oscar at the Academy Awards presentation this past Sunday, but it remains a massive world-wide hit, far bigger than Spotlight, won three other major awards best director, best actor, and best cinematographer and will almost certainly be the best remembered picture of 2015. And what stands out first in the movie? Of all the early scenes, which one makes the greatest impression? The bear attack, surely, in which our hero, scouting through the woods for a way across the mountains, hears hoarse breathing, sees a couple of bear cubs, and then out of nowhere is brutally attacked, bitten, and torn open by a bear. He ultimately shoots the bear, as it attacks again, and then stabs it, and finally kills it. How did they film this? Well, first they did their homework, according to a story in Backpacker: Glenn Ennis of Vancouver, one of the performers who played the bear, told Backpacker the team prepared by studying videos of wild and captive bears, including several attacks. Ennis recalls one clip of a man being attacked after entering a zoo enclosure. The footage went on for quite some time, with the bear wandering away mid-attack but then coming back and getting vicious again, he says. The bear in The Revenant behaves similarly. The bear itself was created with computer effects, but it was superimposed over Ennis and his actual movement. He had to call on his acting background to practice ursine walking and getting into the headspace of a bear, he says. When theyre not attacking something, they have a nonchalance to them. Earlier on in the films production, a group including director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki and visual effects supervisor Richard McBride met for an informal consultation for the film with Scott McMillion, a Montana-based writer and author of Mark of the Grizzly, a 1998 nonfiction book about bear attacks. Its impressive as hell, and from that moment onward the movie takes on a legendary cast, This is the story of a man who survived a bear attack. He is no longer a white man, a fur-trapper, a father he is the man who survived the bear attack. He has become a myth, though he still has a life to live through. The bear, quoted in The New Yorker, has a different POV: There has been a lot in the press about how nightmarishly gruelling the shooting was on The Revenant. In fact, it was as difficult as Ive ever experienced. Im no divaI mean, Im literally a bear, I defecate in the woodsbut even I must go on the record to say that there were times during filming when I longed for death. Read the whole thing. Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL), the countrys largest passenger car exporter and the second largest car manufacturer, today inaugurated Indias first Digital Automotive Experience Outlet Unity Hyundai. Unity Hyundai Digital Experience Outlet is a New Thinking, New Possibility approach which offers an unique car buying experience to modern shoppers by adopting the digital screens and artworks as per the changing taste of customers. It will provide a customer-centric experience allowing visitors to research, test-drive, part-exchange their old car and purchase a new Hyundai car either with cash or through various finance packages. The outlet is staffed with highly trained and knowledgeable sales representatives expressing the Modern and New Age Hyundai Brand. It is designed to provide Hyundai Experience to customers giving them freedom of purchase. Unity Hyundais pioneering Digital Experience Outlet has been designed to be easy-to-use, flexible and convenient for the customers to Experience Hyundai. Commenting on the opening of the first digital experience outlet, Mr. Y K Koo, Managing Director, HMIL commented: Hyundai has the customers truly at its heart. This outlet expresses Hyundais modern premium brand identity. Unity Hyundai is Indias first Interactive, Creative and Understanding space which boosts the Hyundai brand value by creating an emotional connect with the existing and future customers. The key drivers for the success of Unity Hyundai - Digital Experience Outlet will be Evolution, Innovation and Experience. This exciting new digital outlet from Hyundai exemplifies these themes to create a unique experience. TLC is all set to unleash a new culinary battle on TV with the launch of MASTERCHEF CANADA. The internationally acclaimed franchise will present an incredible line-up of 50 professional and home cooks from various parts of Canada who will compete for the title of Canadas first ever MasterChef. The distinguished judging panel will include celebrity chef MICHAEL BONACINI who is the co-founder of one of Canadas leading fine dining restaurant companies, CLAUDIO APRILE, one of Canadas most celebrated and visionary chefs and ALVIN LEUNG, the self-proclaimed Demon Chef. In each episode, the judges will up the stakes by bringing in new hurdles and twists for the amateur cooks as they undergo a series of pressure tests, mystery box challenges and team challenges on their way to the top. In the quest to become Canadas first-ever MasterChef, contestants will fight each other in their bid to impress three of Canadas most popular and celebrated chefs. The judges will test contestants on their skills, creativity and their ability to withstand pressure against all odds. The series will feature contestants who will present their creatively crafted dishes with the hopes of turning their culinary dreams into reality. After a series of nail-biting showdowns, the series will bring the culinary battle down to two cooks in the grand finale. With their families and former opponents there to cheer them on, they will fight to the finish for $100,000 and the chance to call themselves Canadas first ever MasterChef. The Board of Directors of Zee Media Corporation, at a meeting held on February 27, 2016, approved in principle, acquisition of up to 80 per cent equity stake by the company in both Today Merchandise and Today Retail Network. Today Merchandise and Today Retail Network are wholly-owned subsidiaries of Living Media India, an India Today Group entity. The target companies, which are currently into losses, have been developing infrastructure for launching a TV shopping channel and have also been operating an e-commerce website, www.bagittoday.com, to complement the TV shopping business. In a statement to the BSE, Zee Media said that TV shopping, with its promising potential, held great investment value for the company. It further said that with its investment in the two companies, Zee would be able to not only shorten the launch timing of the TV shopping, but also scale up at a faster pace. The company, with its existing broadcast operations, will also be able to derive the synergy benefits from this proposed investment. Today Merchandise was incorporated on August 20, 2007. During financial year ended March 31, 2015, the company achieved turnover of Rs 3.84 crore. Today Retail Network was incorporated on August 20, 2007. During financial year ended March 31, 2015, the company achieved turnover of Rs 37.36 crore. Hill's F-35s drop first weapons Airmen from the 388th and 419th fighter wings dropped laser-guided bombs at the Utah Test and Training Range the week of Feb. 25, marking the first time an F-35 Lightning II combat unit has deployed weapons from the F-35A. Lt. Col. George Watkins, the 34th Fighter Squadron commander, said dropping weapons from the F-35 allows pilots to more fully engage the aircraft and confirm that everything works as planned. This is significant because were building the confidence of our pilots by actually dropping something off the airplane instead of simulating weapon employment, Watkins said. Air Force F-35s have dropped weapons in test environments, but this is the first time its been done on jets designed to deploy once the Air Force declares initial operational capability, which it plans to do between August and December. IOC will be announced when the Air Force deems the F-35 combat capable. Lt. Col. Darrin Dronoff, the director of Hills F-35 Program Integration Office, said that while this achievement is a significant step toward Air Force IOC, the milestone goes beyond that mark. The pilots and weapons loaders in the 388th and 419th fighter wings are perfecting their skills not only to prove aircraft capabilities, but theyll also be the Airmen called upon to take the F-35 to combat, whenever that call may come, he said. Hills F-35 pilots will begin flying the F-35 in four-ship formations, which is the standard configuration flown in contested combat scenarios, as early as March. High voltage Airmen keep power going at Eielson Driving through the mountains in the beautiful, sunshine of summer; braving the harsh, cold winters; and ensuring the light-filled airfield is always lit is something Senior Airman Travis Bothast and Airman 1st Class Anthony Cooper know all too well as electrical systems Airmen. Bothast, a 354th Civil Engineer Squadron electrical systems journeyman, works with exterior high-voltage overhead lines while Cooper, a 354th CES electrical systems apprentice, handles airfield lighting. Both Airmen maintain high-voltage equipment. Bothast works on utility poles that conduct 12,470 volts, while Cooper works on airfield lighting systems that push out a maximum of 5,000 volts. Anything over 600 volts is considered high voltage, Bothast said. The electrical systems career field is broken down into three categories: interior, exterior and airfield. Both Airmen are trained in all three areas making them versatile, although they are generally assigned to one section. Bothasts section maintains all the streetlights, parking lot lights and overhead lines on the base. He is also responsible for maintaining the utility poles on the Yukon Training Range, which spans more than 25 miles in the Alaska wilderness. Being outside, we dont get stuck at a desk, Bothast said. We get out and see the base, the mountains, the beautiful views and get some fresh air. Coopers section maintains all the lights and signs on the airfield. We conduct light inspections, Cooper said. Theres about 1,200 lights and 81 signs. Bothast and Cooper both said they enjoy the hands-on work and agreed the weather is a challenge in Alaska. We always wear gloves for safety, but sometimes you need to take them off to get a better grip on things, Cooper said. When its 20 below, it can get hard to concentrate. Bothast said finding access to certain utility poles on the range can be very difficult in the winter months and climbing up them can be nerve-racking. We have to figure it out, Bothast said. We cant put things aside to work on when the weather is nicer. Bothast also explained they have new fall restraint equipment to use when climbing poles. No more free climbing, Bothast said. The belt squeezes you to the pole so you wont fall off. Bothast and Coopers career field is extremely important to the mission at Eielson AFB. If the power goes out, we will be there fixing it until its restored, Bothast said. We keep the mission going. Coopers section is critical to control the lights on the airfield. The power source for the airfield lights starts and ends in the vault, Cooper said. If theres something wrong with the electric, nothing will work on the airfield. Its always our number one priority; if something is down, we go out immediately and fix it. One of Coopers priorities in airfield lighting is taking edge lights down when a B-52 Stratofortress aircraft lands. The edge lights at the bottleneck are cut in closer than the rest of the runway, Cooper said. When the B-52 is scheduled to land, we go out and remove the set of edge lights so it can land safely. We then quickly put them back so the F-16 Fighting Falcons can use them for their landing. Without the expertise of the electrical systems Airmen, Eielson AFB could potentially be even more dark than normal for the cold, Alaskan winters. Its a rewarding job, Bothast said. People rely on us to get the power back up. At the end of the day, its nice to sit back and know we have everything back up and running. Everything is good and people are happy. Keeping the C-17 in the fight The C-17 Globemaster III is a versatile aircraft in high demand across the globe. The airframe is used to haul cargo, transport passengers and medically evacuate wounded service members. The 8th Expeditionary Air Mobility Squadron maintenance team at Al Udeid Air Base helps keep the bases C-17 fleet mission ready by performing regular maintenance on each aircraft. The unit provides the only tier two C-17 maintenance capability in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility with the ability to replace engines and perform fuel cell work. Our goal is to maintain our C-17s so theyre ready to go at a moments notice, said Senior Airman Matthew Vanderbosch, a 8th EAMS C-17 crew chief from Buffalo, New York. We need to make sure the aircraft is crew ready. We configure the cargo bay for each mission, inspect everything on the aircraft and call in specialists, as needed, to fix problems quickly. Conducting preflight inspections is one of the many responsibilities of 8th EAMS crew chiefs. During inspections, nearly a half dozen crew chiefs inspect every system on the aircraft, Vanderbosch said. We inspect the interior and exterior of the aircraft, all lights, computer systems, hydraulics, every brake and tire everything, said Staff Sgt. Robert Hill, a 8th EAMS C-17 crew chief from Helena, Montana. Each inspection consists of hundreds of items. Ensuring the C-17, an aircraft called upon to evacuate 80 U.S. Embassy personnel from Yemen in February 2015, is mission ready is vital, Hill said. Everything we do here has an impact. Every time we support a jet launch were making things happen, Hill said. Whether its moving passengers across the AOR, delivering munitions or delivering humanitarian aid like water, blankets or food to people in need; we are here to support all of that. One day, Vanderbosch was informed of a C-17 waiting to takeoff to transport wounded Soldiers out of Afghanistan. The aircraft was fueled up, the pilot was ready to start engines and the aeromedical evacuation crew was ready to go. However, there was one problem -- two tires needed to be replaced. Without hesitation, a team of us went out to the jet, jacked it up and replaced the tires, Vanderbosch said. Behind every flight crew, theres a team of crew chiefs and specialists ensuring they can do their jobs, because if we dont do our jobs, the flight crews cant do their jobs. Knowing we were able to help bring those Soldiers home and get them the care they needed being a part of that, was pretty cool, he continued. During his time at AUAB, Vanderbosch said hes replaced C-17 brakes, lights and more tires than any other time in his Air Force career. The 8th EAMS maintainers perform maintenance actions on a routine basis in an effort to ensure assets are available at the time of need, Hill said. We track the maintenance needs for every aircraft; we assign people as necessary, perform our inspections and focus on preventative maintenance so we take care of problems before they arise, Hill said. The 8th EAMS currently has a logistics departure reliability rate of nearly 93 percent. That means for every 10 aircraft assigned to missions, nine take off on time. The LDRR is one of many achievements made possible by the hard work of the 8th EAMS maintenance team, said Capt. Danielle Rogowski, a 8th EAMS maintenance operations officer from St. Cloud, Minnesota. Our guys understand the importance of what theyre doing and they see the impact of what they do every day, she said. When a C-17 is transporting service members across the AOR or when someone needs to get medevacd out, thats possible because of the work my Airmen do. Rogowski said shes impressed with the dedication her Airmen bring to the mission. Im so proud of our people, to do what they do every day in extreme heat; Im having to pull them off of stands to take breaks because they wont stop. If something is broke, they wont stop until its fixed, she said. To display such tenacity, thats impressive and they bring that tenacity every day. They come here ready to go, focused on getting the mission done. In 2015, the 8th EAMS supported more than 1,700 sorties delivering nearly 24,000 tons of cargo and more than 9,000 people to locations across the CENTCOM AOR. Bombers receive warm welcome for Cold Response B-52 Stratofortresses from Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, arrived in Europe Feb. 27, in preparation for their participation in a large-scale NATO training exercise. This year's iteration of the biennial Cold Response will be held in the central Trndelag region of Norway and feature air, ground and maritime operations. Approximately 16,000 troops from a dozen nations will participate in the exercise, working together to collectively develop tactics, techniques and procedures for combat operations in an extreme cold-weather environment. "We appreciate the opportunity to take part in such a large multinational exercise at the invitation of our Norwegian allies, and we are especially thankful for the opportunity to test our skills in such unique cold weather conditions," said Lt. Col. Dennis Cummings, the 2nd Expeditionary Bomb Group commander. "The ability to train bomber aircrews in different geographic combatant commands is essential to maintaining a strong, credible bomber force that enhances the security and stability of our allies and partners." The B-52s will conduct multiple sorties over the course of the exercise, engaging in simulated strikes against ground targets inside the training area. As the Air Force's premier nuclear-capable, strategic heavy bomber, the B-52 is capable of delivering a large payload of precision nuclear or conventional ordnance over long distances while also providing decision makers the ability to rapidly project military power. "Bomber participation in joint military exercises like this one are an expression of the U.S. commitment to supporting our allies and partners, demonstrating our shared dedication to promoting global security and stability," said Maj. Matt Spinelli, the 2nd EBG assistant director of operations. The B-52s will join with KC-135 Stratotankers and F-16 Fighting Falcons to serve as the American air component for the duration of Cold Response 16. A number of C-130 Hercules will also be on hand to provide support to ground forces. "This exercise provides a great opportunity for allies to train together and better understand how we each operate and communicate," Cummings said. "The increased understanding and cooperative efforts between our countries enable us to work together effectively, while also addressing any and all security challenges that may arise in the region or other parts of the world." Cold Response 16 is scheduled to run through March 9. Get AfricaFocus Bulletin by e-mail! Format for print or mobile USA/Africa: Rising Opposition to Tax Evasion AfricaFocus Bulletin February 29, 2016 (160229) (Reposted from sources cited below) Editor's Note "We said we were advising an African minister who had accumulated millions of dollars, and we wanted to buy a Gulfstream Jet, a brownstone and a yacht. We said we needed to get the money into the U.S. without detection. ... the results were shocking; all but one of the the lawyers had suggestions on how to move the funds." Global Witness (see excerpts from report below, as well as link to full report and video documentation) The global systems of tax evasion (and we should add tax avoidance, for cases in which such illicit maneuvers may be technically legal due to faulty laws and clever lawyers) are pervasive. Africa and other developing regions suffer the most, as highlighted by the Stop the Bleeding Africa campaign. But every country is affected, as resources that could be used the public good are drained into the pockets of the rich and powerful. Before you read further, go to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_nDPKiWSTXI to check out the Stop the Bleeding Africa song, with audio, lyrics, and photos, and distribute widely in your networks. The song is expected to win the best activist anthem award in the Honesty Oscars ( http://www.honestyoscars.org/). Voting is now closed and the announcement will be made tomorrow. This AfricaFocus contains several press releases and excerpts from recent reports, as well as links to other reports highlighting how the happens, from Nairobi to New York and throughout the global economy. For previous AfricaFocus Bulletins on tax justice and illicit financial flows, visit http://www.africafocus.org/intro-iff.php For ongoing coverage of these issues, AfricaFocus strongly recommends https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/fact-coalition (primary focus on U.S. policy and advocacy; sign-up requires contacting the owner) and https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/afritax (primary focus on Africa; open sign-up) ++++++++++++++++++++++end editor's note+++++++++++++++++ Roundup of Recent News & Press Releases "Treasury keen to evade Parliament in Mauritius tax row," Daily Nation, Nairobi, Feb. 4, 2016 http://tinyurl.com/zm4jtm3 [For background see Tax Justice Network-Africa press release from Nov. 2, 2015 http://tinyurl.com/zsglcd9] Zambian civil society calls for beneficial ownership transparency in regulations for extractive industry, Publish What You Pay Zambia and Center for Trade Policy and Development, 14 Jan., 2016 http://tinyurl.com/zc44zl8 Former President Thabo Mbeki and delegation from UNECA High Level Panel on Illicit Financial Flow from Africa visit Washington, DC to urge action to curtail illicit flows from Africa See press release from Global Financial Integrity, Feb. 19, 2016 http://tinyurl.com/zwmn75a Americans for Tax Fairness, "Pfizer: Price Gouger, Tax Dodger" Feb. 25, 2016 - on how Pfizer's "inversion" (selling itself to a foreign subsidiary) may allow it to dodge some $35 billion in taxes. Note that such inversions have been denounced by both Democratic candidates for president. http://tinyurl.com/j29dzzu Global Financial Integrity (GFI) update on illicit financial flows, covering 2004-2013 http://tinyurl.com/gq66oy6 - includes latest estimate of IFF from sub-Saharan Africa $74.6 billion in 2013; average of $67.5 billion a year over the 10-year period. [Note from AfricaFocus editor: These numbers are estimates, and almost certainly underestimates, as both GFI and the Mbeki report acknowledge. But for those of you using figures from earlier reports such as "in excess of $50 billion to $60 billion a year," it's now time to update the numbers and start talking about at least $65 billion to $70 billion.] Lowering The Bar: How American Lawyers Told Us How to Funnel Suspect Funds into The United States Global Witness January 2016 https://www.globalwitness.org/shadyinc/ Brief excerpts only. For videos and full report go to the link above. Global Witness has previously looked at a whole range of crimes, and found they all had one thing in common. They were all carried out by anonymous company owners, who are able to skirt U.S. laws and launder money through our financial system. If these sham companies did not exist, those crimes would be far harder to commit. Anonymous companies do great damage to society. Warlords and dictators use them to steal from their people and stash the loot in places like the U.S. A violent Mexican drug cartel called the Zetas used American companies to launder its profits. The Iranian government has used them to evade sanctions. Credit card scammers, mobsters, tax evaders and other criminals routinely use them to rip off innocent citizens or threaten U.S. interests and get away with it. The crazy thing is, these companies are often set up in the U.S. - it is one of the easiest places in the world to do this legally. To prove our point, we went undercover and approached 13 New York law firms. We deliberately posed as someone designed to raise red flags for money laundering. We said we were advising an African minister who had accumulated millions of dollars, and we wanted to buy a Gulfstream Jet, a brownstone and a yacht. We said we needed to get the money into the U.S. without detection. To be clear, the meetings with the lawyers were all preliminary. None of the law firms took our investigator on as a client, and no money was moved. Nonetheless, the results were shocking; all but one of the the lawyers had suggestions on how to move the funds. To see what some of them said, watch the video below https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j8pgI60GrvU ... he key findings from the investigation are: Lawyers from 12 of the 13 firms we visited suggested using anonymous companies or trusts to hide the minister's assets. All but one of these firms recommended using American companies. One of the lawyers who provided suggestions on how to move the funds was James Silkenat, the President of the American Bar Association at the time. Several lawyers suggested using their law firms' own bank accounts to help prevent U.S. banks realizing whose money it really was, or to have the lawyer act as a trustee of an offshore trust and use this position to open a bank account. While most of the lawyers asked for some information about the minister, and his source of funds, only one lawyer refused to provide assistance during the meeting itself. A number, including Mr. Silkenat, indicated they would need to carry out more checks before they could take our investigator on as a client. Mr. Silkenat also indicated that he had to make sure that no crimes had been committed and, if so, would have to report them. None of the lawyers broke the law. To find out more about the investigation, including the responses we received from the lawyers featured read our briefing paper. ... Ultimately, this is not about individual lawyers - it's about what is wrong with the law. The tactics described in the film are commonplace. It is simply too easy to hide who you you are and what you are doing behind companies. This has to change. You can help fix this problem, and help cut off some of today's worst crimes at the source. ... This is what is needed to fix the problem: The U.S. should put information about who ultimately owns and controls American companies into the public domain for all to see. At present, the lack of information available on the people behind American companies is a gift to individuals who want to use them to hide their identity and move their loot. The people who set up companies and trusts - lawyers, accountants and company service providers - should be required to be on the lookout for money laundering. At present none of these people are required to carry out anti-money laundering checks on their customers. They should be, especially when they are carrying out activities such as setting up companies and managing clients' money. Mistreated: How shady tax treaties are fuelling inequality and poverty ActionAid International February 23, 2016 http://www.actionaid.org - direct URL: http://tinyurl.com/zwlyynl For more information, contact Savior Mwambwa, Tax Power Campaign Manager, in Johannesburg. Email: savior.mwambwa@actionaid.org Executive Summary Women and girls in the world's poorest countries need good schools and hospitals. To pay for this, these countries urgently need more tax revenue. A little-known mechanism by which countries lose corporate tax revenue is a global network of binding tax treaties between countries. This report marks the release of the ActionAid tax treaties dataset - original research that makes these tax deals made with some of the world's poorest countries easily comparable and open to public scrutiny. Tax avoidance strategies used by some multinational corporations deprive the world's most impoverished communities of vital revenues. Tax revenue is one of the most important, sustainable and predictable sources of public finance there is. It is a crucial part of the journey towards a world free from poverty - funding lasting improvements in public services such as health and education. The communities that ActionAid works with around the world are demanding increased public funds to promote development - particularly for the realisation of women and girls' human rights. Tax treaties - agreements between countries that carve up tax rights - play a facilitating role in many of these tax avoidance schemes. Tax treaties have played a part in most well-known cases of aggressive tax planning, such as in Google's and Amazon's tax schemes. Many of the tax treaties that ActionAid has scrutinised are ensuring that money flows untaxed from poor to rich countries, making the world more unequal and exacerbating poverty. Tax treaties have so far received little public scrutiny - but this is changing. ActionAid has commissioned original research that makes the content of more than 500 binding treaties signed by lower-income countries (those classified as low and lower-middle income by the World Bank) in Asia and sub-Saharan Africa available to the public and open to scrutiny for the first time. These important tax agreements decide when, how and even if some of the world's poorest countries can tax foreign-owned corporations that are making money within their borders. Global corporations use tax treaties to limit their tax contributions in the lower-income countries where they generate profits. Tax treaties that aggressively lower tax contributions in lower-income countries are harming revenue collection in these countries and the rights of the world's most vulnerable people. They have no place in the 21st century. The era of outdated and unscrutinised tax treaties that create opportunities for multinational tax avoidance must come to an end. It's time to ensure that all investors pay their fair share and put an end to aggressively lowered taxes and double non-taxation on investment income. Developing countries lose billions Bangladesh is losing approximately US$85 million every year from just one clause in its tax treaties that severely restricts its right to tax dividends. With an annual total health expenditure of approximately US$25 per capita, remedying this alone could pay for health services for 3.4 million people. In 2004, Uganda signed a tax treaty with the Netherlands that completely takes away Uganda's right to tax certain earnings paid to owners of Ugandan corporations, if the owners are resident in the Netherlands. A decade later, as much as half of Uganda's foreign investment is owned from the Netherlands, at least on paper. The result of the current treaty is lost tax revenue in Uganda, which could have paid for essential public services for the Ugandan people. ... ActionAid has identified the most restrictive treaties All tax treaties restrict the right to levy tax, but some treaties take away far more tax power than others. The ActionAid tax treaties dataset shows that the overall number of tax rights that lowerincome countries give up varies widely from treaty to treaty. ActionAid's new research identifies the treaties that remove more tax rights than most - which we call very restrictive treaties. It finds that the United Kingdom and Italy are tied as the countries with the largest number of very restrictive treaties with lowerincome Asian and sub-Saharan African countries, followed by Germany. China, Kuwait and Mauritius also have a rapidly growing number of very restrictive treaties with some of the world's poorest countries. Treaties that lower-income countries have with OECD countries (a club of rich, industrialised countries) take away more rights to tax than those with non-OECD countries. Worryingly, the deals struck with OECD countries are getting worse over time. Tax treaties with tax havens such as Mauritius can come at a particularly high cost. Money is often routed through tax havens as part of tax avoidance strategies that rely on tax cuts contained in treaties signed by those havens. ... Tax treaties limit poor countries the most ActionAid is deeply concerned that the balance of tax rights created by tax treaties is not fair. In practice, the taxing restrictions within tax treaties impose an unfair burden on lower-income countries compared to wealthier countries. While both parties to a tax treaty give up some tax rights, the dominant model treaty squeezes the tax rights of the capital-importing (lower-income) country more than the capital-exporting (wealthier) country. In 2015-16, the OECD, the European Parliament and the European Commission have acknowledged that the balance of tax rights in tax treaties is a problem for developing countries. Some treaties result in multinational corporations not paying certain types of taxes either in the lower-income country where they operate, or in the country where they are based, so called double non-taxation. This practice cuts urgently needed tax contributions in some of the world's poorest communities. Uganda's tax deal with the Netherlands blocks Uganda from taxing income that investors bring home from Uganda and the income is routinely not taxed in the Netherlands either. These investors enjoy double non-taxation while Uganda misses out on vital tax contributions. Political action is needed Tax treaties are voluntary; they can be renegotiated and cancelled. Rwanda's successful renegotiation with Mauritius in 2013 is a strong example, and included five important triumphs that re-established Rwanda's rights to tax construction sites, business services, interest and royalty payments. Mr Moses Kaggwa, Commissioner for tax policy at the Ugandan Ministry of Finance, Planning and Economic Development said in 2014: "We have stopped negotiations of any new agreement until we have a policy in place that will not only offer guidelines but give clear priorities of what our interests and objectives are." Lower-income countries should not sign bad tax deals with other governments that take away their taxing power. Wealthier countries can act to align the rules of their tax treaties with development objectives. ActionAid is calling for governments to: Urgently reconsider the treaties that restrict the tax rights of low and lower-middle income countries most. Subject treaty negotiation, ratification and impact assessments to far greater public scrutiny. Take a pro-development approach to the negotiation of tax treaties by adopting the UN model tax treaty as the minimum standard. ActionAid is calling for multinational corporations to: Be transparent about their interactions with developing country governments regarding treaty terms and refrain from lobbying governments to conclude tax treaties that are particularly advantageous to their own business interests, but of limited or unclear benefit to the developing country concerned. OECD invites developing countries to join anti-tax avoidance plan, but only after the rules have been written The OECD's plan to open BEPS system after it has already been designed highlights the need for a truly universal tax body February 23, 2016 Financial Transparency Coalition (http://www.financialtransparency.org) Ahead of this week's G20 Finance Ministers meeting, the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development announced plans to invite non-member countries to join in its anti-tax avoidance system ( http://tinyurl.com/j7o8vdf). The Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) project aims to tackle the problem of corporate tax dodging. Although the invitation for inclusion comes as the global discussion about tax dodging reaches new heights, the bones of the plan have been in place for years, leaving no room for substantive input. "Inclusion after the fact is a poor substitute for a voice in how the standards are designed," said Oriana Suarez of the Latin American Network on Debt, Development, and Rights. "Developing countries now being invited into the BEPS system did not have a say while the rules were being set." "The OECD is certainly one part of the global fight against tax evasion and tax avoidance, but it's not well-positioned to be the sole standard bearer for the globe," added Porter McConnell of the Financial Transparency Coalition. "Having its members speak on behalf of the rest of the world's countries is patronizing and it's ultimately ineffective." "Again, we're seeing an attempt by the OECD to get global buy-in for a system that was designed by the few," said Alvin Mosioma of the Tax Justice Network-Africa. "G77, a group of 134 developing countries, have for years been demanding a stronger voice and a true seat at the table, but the latest OECD proposal fails to respond to this demand." "The frustrating reality is that we've already seen proposals to create an inclusive intergovernmental UN body for setting global standards, but it has repeatedly been blocked by the same OECD countries that are asking others to join their system," added Pooja Rangaprasad of the Financial Transparency Coalition. "Despite the latest announcement by the OECD, a UN body continues to be the most effective and inclusive global solution." ### Notes to Editors: [1] The OECD proposal will be presented to G20 Finance Ministers at their next meeting on 26-27 February in Shanghai, China. [2] The issue of a UN tax body was subject of negotiations at the 3rd Financing for Development Conference in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia in July 2015 (http://tinyurl.com/h3969sd). [3] The BEPS Project, agreed to by G20 Leaders at the 2015 G20 Summit in Turkey, aims to tackle corporate tax avoidance and tax evasion. The plan was developed by members of the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, a group of 34 wealthy countries. Contact: Christian Freymeyer , Financial Transparency Coalition +1.410.490.6850 cfreymeyer@financialtransparency.org Tax Reform Should Close Offshore Loopholes, End Tax Haven Abuse February 24, 2016 FACT Coalition Submits Comments to House Ways and Means Committee Ahead of International Tax Reform Hearing http://www.thefactcoalition.org / direct URL: http://tinyurl.com/hpnc2hl Washington, D.C. - Ahead of a planned hearing on international tax reform, the FACT (Financial Accountability and Corporate Transparency) Coalition today submitted comments to the U.S. House Committee on Ways and Means urging lawmakers to focus reform efforts on closing offshore loopholes and ending tax haven abuse. "Offshore loopholes and tax haven abuse cost U.S. taxpayers $150 billion per year," said Clark Gascoigne, Interim Director of the FACT Coalition, upon submitting the comments to the Committee. "It's an enormous amount of lost revenue that must instead be shouldered by small businesses, domestic corporations, and ordinary individuals." "At the same time, tax haven abuse facilitates the outflow of trillions of dollars from developing countriesexacerbating global poverty and inequality and increasing our national security risks," continued Mr. Gascoigne. "It's high time that Congress reform our tax code to close these loopholesprotecting the most vulnerable among us and evening the playing field for domestic businesses to compete fairly with multinational corporations. We hope that the Committee chooses to move in this direction." The FACT Coalition's submission to the Ways and Means Committeewhich is co-signed by 12 of the coalition's membersspecifically highlights a number of issues, including: How the tax code is riddled with loopholes inserted by special interests resulting in the ability for large, multinational corporations to shift their tax responsibilities to small businesses and average taxpayers. How companies use the current system of deferral to indefinitely put off paying taxes until the profits are "brought back" to the U.S. The practices of inversions and earnings stripping, where a domestic company purchases a foreign firm that's usually much smaller and reincorporates overseas in a low or no tax jurisdiction. The company then loads down the domestic entity with so much debt as to obviate any potential tax payments. How Congress should avoid embracing changes to the tax code that provide false "solutions" like a shift to a territorial tax system or proposals to create patent or innovation boxes. The Coalition proposes policy solutions along the lines of the Stop Tax Haven Abuse Act (S. 174, H.R. 297), the Stop Corporate Inversions Act (S. 198, H.R. 415), and ending the ability of multinational corporations to indefinitely defer paying taxes on offshore profits. ### Notes to Editors: Download a PDF of the FACT Coalition's submission ( http://tinyurl.com/gskfqqz). Full signatories of the submission include: American Sustainable Business Council, Americans for Tax Fairness, Citizens for Tax Justice, FACT Coalition, Fair Share, Global Financial Integrity, Jubilee USA Network, Main Street Alliance, New Rules for Global Finance, Oxfam America, Public Citizen, Tax Justice Network USA, and U.S. Public Interest Research Group (PIRG). Learn more about the hearing on the website of the House Ways and Means Committee (http://tinyurl.com/gskfqqz). Journalist Contact: Clark Gascoigne, FACT Coalition cgascoigne@thefactcoalition.org +1 202.813.0290 AfricaFocus Bulletin is an independent electronic publication providing reposted commentary and analysis on African issues, with a particular focus on U.S. and international policies. AfricaFocus Bulletin is edited by William Minter. AfricaFocus Bulletin can be reached at africafocus@igc.org. Please write to this address to subscribe or unsubscribe to the bulletin, or to suggest material for inclusion. For more information about reposted material, please contact directly the original source mentioned. For a full archive and other resources, see http://www.africafocus.org Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals convoy was today attacked on Ludhiana-Ferozepur road in Punjab. Kejriwals car windscreen shattered after being hit by a stone. He was sitting on the front seat of the car. After the attack, Kejriwal tweeted, My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals and Congress nervous? They cant break my spirits. The Delhi chief minister earlier visited Boha village in Ludhiana, where two Dalit youth were killed in an alleged fake encounter in 2014. Terror of Badals is all set to end after one year, he said to the families of the two. The attack took place as Kejriwal exited a venue where he interacted with industrialists around 12.20pm. A group of Sikh protestors threw stones at his car. Kejriwal is in Punjab to campaign for the assembly elections scheduled to be held in 2017. The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was by only Gods grace that he escaped unhurt. In a well orchestrated attack the goons sent by Badals attacked Kejriwals car with stones & rods as police stood by, (sic) AAP leader Ashish Khetan tweeted. The AAP gave no further details. It was not immediately clear if Kejriwal, who usually sits to the left of the driver, continued with his journey or not. The AAP put out a photograph showing the shattered front glass pane with a visibly worried Punjab police officer standing close by. The car appeared to be stranded on a rural road, with a police vehicle in the front. It is learnt that large number of people reached to listen to Kejriwal at Mandi Gobindgarh despite all roads leading to the venue were closed by the police. The ruling SAD-BJP and main opposition party Congress are running a camapaign against Kejriwal, blaming him for misrule in Delhi. BJP and Congress even tried to link Kejriwal with radical Sikh leader late Sant Jarnail Singh Bhindrawala. SAD leaders are issuing warnings to Kejriwal and Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal has described him seasonal bird. He even said that Kejriwal was not competent to handle a sensitive state like Punjab. One of the six JNU students accused of shouting seditious slogans has told HRD Minister Smriti Irani that he was not a child and she was not a motherly minister. The comments has been made in an open letter blaming saffron politics for the death of Dalit scholar Rohith Vemula. I heard the speech you gave in Parliament. I want to make it clear that this letter is not from a child to a motherly minister but from a person who believes in a certain political ideology to another political person, said Anant Prakash Narayan, former vice president of JNU students union. You assert your identity as a woman But Vemulas mother, a Dalit woman, fought this patriarchal society to raise her kids. She gave them her identity. But why is your government associating the identity of her children to her husband? Why are you snatching away her right to have an independent identity? (sic), Narayan said. The letter has been published on Kafila.org. Narayan further says, We are your natural target because universities are places where there is reasoning and science We do not expect mercy from you. You can attack us with all your might but we will also face you with full confidence, the student said, signing off the letter as from the anti-national created by you. We were debarred by an inquiry committee which didnt even listen to us. Should you not have been cautious not to announce our names in Parliament till the committee released its decision? he added. On the controversy surrounding Mahishasur martyrdom day he wrote, Dont you know that in certain parts of this country, Adivasis and Dalits associate their religious beliefs with Mahishasura (the demon slain by Goddess Durga). I am a Communist and dont believe in religion. But I believe that everyone has a right to practice their religion as per their beliefs. Meanwhile, the issue of privilege motion against Irani created a brief uproar in the Lok Sabha before Finance Minister Arun Jaitely started presenting the Union Budget 2016-17 today. Opposition members were on their feet seeking to know the status of their notices against Irani for misleading the House on the Vemula issue. I have received notices raising the question of privilege dated February 26 and 29 respectively against Smriti Irani. The matter is under my consideration, Speaker Sumitra Mahajan said, seeking to pacify the Opposition. After the brief uproar and Mahajans statement, order was restored and Jaitley began his budget speech. Congress, Left and the JDU had announced plans of bringing a Privilege Motion against Irani, who is in the eye of a storm following her remarks in Parliament on the issue last week. Former Pakistan Punjab governor Salman Taseers assassin Mumtaz Qadri was hanged to death early on Monday at Rawalpindis Adiala jail. Qadri, a former Pakistani police commando, had shot dead Taseer in 2011or allegedly criticising Pakistans controversial blasphemy laws. Qadri was deputed on the security of Taseer, He confessed killing the governor and was handed the death sentence the same year by an anti-terrorism court. His appeal against the sentence was successively rejected by the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court last year. Mumtaz Qadri, a bodyguard for Salman Taseer, governor of Punjab province, shot him dead in the capital, Islamabad, in 2011. Qadri was hanged at around 4:30 a.m., senior police officer Rizwan Omar Gondal said. The execution took place in the city of Rawalpindi outside Islamabad. After his arrest, Qadri told police he killed Taseer because the governor had championed the cause of a Christian woman sentenced to death in a blasphemy case that arose out of a personal dispute. Taseer had said the law was being misused and should be reformed. Qadris attorney said his client told him he had no regrets for killing the governor. I have met him twice in jail. He said that even if Allah gave me 50 million lives, I would still sacrifice all of them, lawyer Ghulam Mustafa Chaudhry said. Protesters briefly blocked the main road between Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Monday after news of the hanging broke. Police later dispersed them and closed off the road to prevent more demonstrations. Chaudhry predicted larger demonstrations coinciding with Qadris funeral, which his legal group said would be held on Tuesday. From what we are seeing, this protest movement is only going to increase, he said. WASHINGTON, Feb. 28, 2016 - Senate Agriculture Chairman Pat Roberts will try again this week to get an agreement with Democrats on legislation to head off state GMO labeling laws. The committee markup of the bill is set for Tuesday after being delayed from last week. The official reason for the postponement was that the committees top Democrat, Debbie Stabenow, needed time to shepherd a bill dealing with the Flint, Michigan, water crisis on the Senate floor, but the rescheduling also gave Roberts and her more time to win Democratic support for the biotech legislation. One of the key Democratic senators that the industry needs, Heidi Heitkamp of North Dakota, says shes eager to support a bill that would address the concerns of her sugar beet producers while also meeting the needs of consumers. Were working very hard and encouraging our leadership to come up with a bill that can pass the Senate, she said in a Agri-Pulse Open Mic interview. Heitkamp didnt get into the specifics of a compromise bill, but she made it clear that the voluntary disclosure approach in Roberts draft bill didnt go far enough. I dont think youre going to be able to sell that, she said. Roberts bill would preempt state laws and require the Agriculture Department to set standards for voluntary disclosure of biotech ingredients. Sugar beet growers in her home state would likely be among the first to be affected by Vermonts law. Almost all of the sugar beets grown in the United States are genetically engineered for herbicide tolerance, but there is no biotech sugarcane, which means that companies that want to avoid a GMO label would have to switch from beet to cane sugar or another sweetener. The Hershey Co. already is making the switch. Also this week, the Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee will hold an unusual hearing on the state of the farm economy that will include testimony about the situation facing cotton farmers after a plunge in the global price of the fiber. Hearings by Appropriations panels normally focus on department spending proposals, but this hearing comes as cotton growers are pushing Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack to provide new subsidies for cotton producers. The chairman of the full Appropriations committee, Thad Cochran, R-Miss., is a key ally of the industry. During a House Agriculture Committee hearing last week, Vilsack reiterated his position that he didnt have the legal authority to designate cottonseed as an oilseed under the Price Loss Coverage and Agriculture Risk Coverage programs. However, he told reporters afterward that the department was working on a cost-share program for ginning. The farm economy, biotech labeling and trade also are likely to be on the agenda when Vilsack and Darci Vetter, the administrations chief agricultural trade negotiator, speak in New Orleans Friday at Commodity Classic, the annual convention and trade show for the National Corn Growers Association, American Soybean Association, National Association of Wheat Growers, National Sorghum Producers and the Association of Equipment Manufacturers. Also this week, Vilsack will use an appearance before the 2016 National Anti-Hunger Policy Conference on Monday to announce an effort to improve access to healthful foods through the Women, Infants and Children Nutrition program. On Tuesday, school nutrition directors from around the country will be on Capitol Hill lobbying lawmakers to pass a bill reauthorizing school meal programs as well as WIC. The School Nutrition Association, which is holding its annual legislative action conference, has endorsed tweaks to sodium and whole grain standards that are included in a bill the Senate Agriculture Committee approved in January, but the group also will be asking lawmakers for a large, 35-cent per-meal increase in the federal reimbursement rate for school meals. Heres a list of agriculture- or rural-related events scheduled for this week in Washington and elsewhere: Monday, Feb. 29 National Anti-Hunger Policy Conference, Omni Shoreham. School Nutrition Association annual legislative action conference, Marriott Marquis. ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit, through March 2, Gaylord National Resort and Convention Center, National Harbor, Maryland. 9 a.m. - Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack announces new efforts to improve access to healthy foods for women, infants and children, National Anti-Hunger conference, Omni Shoreham. Tuesday, March 1 Acting Deputy Secretary Michael Scuse speaks to the Missouri Rice Producers meeting, Cape Girardeau, Missouri. National Anti-Hunger Policy Conference. School Nutrition Association conference. 8:30 a.m. - Aides to the House Ways and Means and Senate Finance committees discuss the congressional trade agenda at a Washington International Trade Association forum, Ronald Reagan Building. 9 a.m. Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, delivers keynote address at ARPA-E Energy Innovation Summit. Former Vice President Al Gore speaks at 9:30 and Energy Secretary Moniz is scheduled to speak at 3:20 p.m. 9:30 a.m. House Appropriations Committee hearing on Energy Department budget request. Energy Secretary Moniz to testify. 10 a.m. - House Natural Resources Committee hearing on budget request with Interior Secretary Sally Jewell, 1324 Longworth. 10 a.m. - Senate Agriculture Committee markup of the Biotechnology Labeling Solutions bill, 328-A Russell. 2 p.m. - House Agriculture subcommittee hearing on Voluntary Conservation: Utilizing Innovation and Technology, 1300 Longworth. 2:30 p.m. - Senate Agriculture Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on the state of the farm economy, 116 Dirksen. 2:30 p.m. - Senate Foreign Relations Committee hearing on the fiscal 2017 budget for USAID and the State Department, 419 Dirksen. Wednesday, March 2 Jennifer Prescott, the assistant U.S. trade representative for the environment and natural resources, takes part in negotiations on the WTO environmental goods agreement. 10 a.m. - House Agriculture Committee hearing on Past, Present, and Future of SNAP: Examining State Options, 1300 Longworth. 10 a.m. House Energy and Commerce Committee hearing on Energy Department budget request. Energy Secretary Moniz to testify. 2 p.m. - Senate Agriculture Appropriations hearing with FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, 124 Dirksen. 2:30 p.m. - Senate Energy-Water Appropriations Subcommittee hearing on the Army Corps of Engineers and Bureau of Reclamation, 138 Dirksen. 3 p.m. - Leaders of National Wildlife Federation, Congressional Sportsmens Foundation and others announce strategy for preventing Endangered Species Act listings, National Press Club. Thursday, March 3 Commodity Classic, New Orleans. U.S. Trade Representative Michael Froman meets with European Commission Vice President Jyrki Katainen and participates in a panel at the IMFs High Level Conference on Asia and Latin America. 9:30 a.m. - USTR-chaired Generalized System of Preferences Subcommittee of the Trade Policy Staff Committee holds two-day public hearing on GSP product-related issues, 1724 F Street NW. 10 a.m. Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee hearing on Energy Department budget request. 10 a.m. - House Interior-Environment Appropriations hearing on the Bureau of Land Management, B-308 Rayburn. 10:15 a.m. - House Agriculture Appropriations hearing on USDAs marketing and regulatory programs, 2362-A Rayburn. 2 p.m. - House Natural Resources subcommittee hearing on bills involving management of national forests and other public lands, 1334 Longworth. Friday, March 4 Vilsack and U.S. agricultural trade negotiator Darci Vetter speak at Commodity Classic. 9:30 a.m. - Generalized System of Preferences Subcommittee of the Trade Policy Staff Committee hearing. #30 For more news, go to: www.Agri-Pulse.com Q. Is there a connection between the Zika virus and global food security? A. Yes. Genetic engineering has an important role to play in meeting both challenges. The mosquito is the deadliest animal on earth. According to the World Health Organization, mosquitoes are the greatest menace spreading malaria, dengue, yellow fever and, now, the Zika disease. These are all vector-borne diseases meaning they are transmitted by an insect or parasite. The dengue virus is the fastest growing vector-borne disease. The global cost of dengue is estimated to be $17 billion including vector control, mortality and healthcare. The Zika virus was first identified in Uganda (in the Zika Forest) then jumping to islands in the Pacific. Zika is now present in multiple countries throughout the Americas. U.S. health officials have issued a travel warning for 14 countries and territories in the Caribbean and Latin America where infection from the Zika virus. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) cautioned pregnant women not to travel to those areas as Zika has been linked to serious birth defects, such as microcephaly. There is no vaccine to fight the Zika virus. The most promising technology to control the Zika disease is through the genetic engineering of mosquitoes. The private sector, led by the Intrexon Corporation, has developed a way to modify male mosquitoes such that when they mate with the females their offspring die before they can transmit the disease. The technology has been approved in Brazil and last year Piracicaba, Brazil became the worlds first city to release the modified mosquitoes. The technology is pending approval in the United States. Hopefully, that will happen in the very near future. Interestingly, a new survey done by Purdue University shows that he U.S. public overwhelmingly supports introducing genetically engineered mosquitoes to help control the spread of the Zika virus. The researchers said they were surprised by the findings because of the public debate over GMOs in food and agriculture. "Yet when it comes to fighting the Zika virus, public sentiment comes out pretty strong in favor of using these technologies to our advantage," said Nicole Widman, of Purdue University's Department of Agricultural Economics and lead researcher on the study. "It's too soon to say what all the implications of our findings mean, but we are already conducting further data analysis," said Wallace Tyner, co-researcher in the Department of Agricultural Economics. "We can certainly say that what we've discovered is startling, and we're pleased that the U.S. public has demonstrated a willingness to be open to all the tools we've got in fighting this outbreak." The Resident Commissioner from Puerto Rico, Pedro Pierluisi, has called upon the federal government, working in conjunction with the scientific community, to take swift and proactive steps to eradicate or at least substantially reduce the population of mosquitoes in Puerto Rico and other U.S. jurisdictions. The application of genetic engineering to medicine is not confined to mosquitoes. Many of the drugs we consume are the product of genetic engineering. A familiar example is insulin. During my first trip to Africa for the World Food Program many years ago I was surprised to see medical doctors in the fields farming. When I inquired, they explained that the AIDS medications would not work without food so they were learning how to farm. The program was being run by the University of Indiana Medical School, headed by Dr. Joe Mamlin. In short, there is a strong relationship between health care, nutrition and food security yet the public (or a very vocal minority of the public) seems to have a different standard for, and acceptance of, genetic engineering when it comes to health care as compared to the production of food. Yet both medicines and food are consumed and enter the human body. Why the difference? Maybe its a secret that drugs are frequently produced through genetic engineering. Maybe we just trust medical doctors more than plant biologists. Or, maybe when were sick we just want to get better and dont ask questions. The public understands there is a process for testing and approving the safety and efficacy of drugs, including drugs that are genetically engineered. The public doesnt seem to know that there is a similar process for the clearance of agriculture biotechnology. The medical profession does not have to defend genetically engineered drugs because there is no effort underway to challenge the effectiveness of the products. That is not the case when it comes to agriculture. The use of genetic engineering for the production food is being attacked and its efficacy called into question. The reason for the attack is simply economic competition, which is fine, but that is not understood. Therefore, there must be a much broader effort by a wider range of experts and scientists, including medical doctors, explaining the benefits of genetic engineering and debunking the myths. And the messaging should include a blunt discussion of the economic motive to being anti-genetic engineering. of being anti-GMO. The Zika epidemic can become a teachable moment for all forms of biotechnology. Biotechnology will surely not solve all of the worlds problems. The challenges we face are very complex, with an still-growing world population, climate change and increased resistance to some existing drugs. We will need all the available tools to address these most serious issues. The scientific community can help by speaking with one voice across disciplines in an effort to assure the public on the safety of all genetically engineered products and the rigor of the governments clearance process. Finally, the Congress must pre-empt multiple state labeling systems that could lead to the labeling of genetically modified food products with different schemes more in the nature of a warning than factual information. Transparency on biotechnology would help inspire consumer confidence, but fifty different labeling systems would be as confusing as having fifty different nutrition labels or fifty rules for health claims. Secrets make people nervous, but multiple state labeling systems will impede commerce. As the Safe Affordable Food Coalition recently wrote to Congress, The application of biotechnology to agricultural production has led to increased crop yields, decreased use of pesticides, and lower food costs for consumers. Congress must ensure we avoid senseless (state) mandates that will thwart agricultural advancement and hurt consumersespecially those low income Americans who can least afford to pay more to feed their families. The federal government must step into the breach. Last week, Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack yet again called for Congress to solve the dispute over genetic labeling, warning that failure to block state labeling laws will "create real chaos in the market." He is right on target. Marshall Matz specializes in agriculture and global food security at OFW Law in Washington, D.C. #30 For more news go to: www.Agri-Pulse.com Some Christians Released, But ISIS Still on the Hunt A Christian human rights group is celebrating the release of the last group of Assyrian Christians being held by an ISIS-affiliated group, though Coptic Christians in Egypt continue to suffer. Hundreds of Assyrian Christians were kidnapped last year, but now, with the release of 43 individuals, the hostage situation in the Syrian province of Hasakah has come to an end. The Islamic State group received millions of dollars in ransom for the release of the last group, which included many women and children. Nate Lance, advocacy director for International Christian Concern (ICC), says no one wants to see more money go to ISIS or to incentivize ISIS by paying ransom, but ICC is grateful for the release of the hostages. "First and foremost, obviously, we are very pleased that these Assyrian Christians are now back with their families and relatively safe, compared to being in captivity under ISIS," he tells OneNewsNow. Now he says it is up to the international community to take further action against ISIS. "A larger international response is required to keep more situations like this from happening, but in the short term, we are at least pleased that so many of these were returned safe and sound," he comments. In particular, Lance hopes the U.S. government will enact harsher policies to keep ISIS from "continuing their acts of terror." Meanwhile, a religious liberty human rights organization is shining a light on the plight of Coptic Christians in Egypt. According to Christian Freedom International (CFI), Coptic Christians are often taken and held as hostages in the Muslim-dominated country until a ransom is paid. It is business for any terrorist or thug group, says Lisa Jones, CFI executive director. In one of the latest kidnappings earlier this month, a five-year-old boy was snatched while he was playing in front of his home, and several of the previous kidnappings have ended in the deaths of the hostages. Jones says the Egyptian government is failing to help. In fact, there is no backing from anyone who would defend Coptic Christians. "Even if there was someone in authority who was sympathetic or was just trying to be just, they get so much pressure to go along with the anti-Christian feeling and sentiment there that they cave," the CFI executive director laments. But she asserts that political pressure could make a difference if enough people get involved. "If people are petitioning their congressman, or if they're posting on Facebook, or if they're just generally advocating on behalf of Christians in Egypt, and especially calling out the kidnappers -- that can make a difference," Jones submits. She goes on to add that prayer for the persecuted church in Egypt is needed. February 29, 2016 Instead of fighting against terrorism, this government is paying protection money to terrorists. Its happening right now. In an interview with Al-Monitor, Avigdor Liberman, the chairman of Yisrael Beitenu, leveled this charge against Finance Minister Moshe Kahlons decision to transfer half a billion shekels ($127 million) to the Palestinian Authority. Kahlons gesture is intended to prevent a complete collapse of the PA and quiet down the current wave of terrorism. Kahlons decision was first revealed by daily Yedioth Ahronoth on Feb. 26. Liberman could not have asked for a better time to hammer more nails into the right-wing governments coffin. At a speech he delivered just one day earlier at a Yisrael Beitenu conference at the Jerusalem Convention Hall, he introduced his own 10-point program to stop the wave of terror. After calling for the reinstitution of Israels targeted assassination strategy of wanted terrorists, his second point was to stop the transfer of all funds to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. Less than a day later, Kahlon was making headlines with his own news, which demanded a response. Only, Liberman had already pre-empted him. These are good days for the former foreign minister, who rose like a phoenix from the corruption scandal that plagued Yisrael Beitenu and threatened to tear down the party that he had built with his own two hands. He teetered on the electoral threshold throughout the last election campaign, only to cross it with six seats. Despite everyones predictions, he gave up the Foreign Ministry and decided to join the opposition. So far, his decision has proven itself as the right one for him. He has been climbing in the polls ever since and is practically already waging a new election campaign. Actually, the Yisrael Beitenu conference looked more like the launching of a new campaign. It had a new slogan Only Liberman can bring security and it featured a bellicose speech about defense that veered sharply to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahus right. Just as in his previous campaigns, Liberman focused yet again on a topic that mostly concerns Israelis. He then went on to mark himself as the next defense minister. Liberman spoke to Al-Monitor about his "10-point program." The text of the interview follows: Al-Monitor: Do you believe that the half billion shekels that Kahlon decided to transfer to the PA will end up funding terrorism? Liberman: Most of that money will eventually end up funding terrorism. Instead of fighting against terrorism, this government is paying protection money to terrorists. There is no other way to look at it. The question is: Where does most of the money actually go? Does it benefit the civilian population of Judea and Samaria or does it go to fund terrorism? Unfortunately, when you analyze the current situation in the PA, it seems obvious that most of the money goes to fund terrorism. When I look at the top line items in their budget to figure out how they really spend the money, the first thing that stands out is pensions for the families of terrorists. The family of someone sitting in an Israeli prison receives as much as 15,000 shekels [$3,800] a month, when the average salary of a teacher in Ramallah is just 900 shekels [$230]. There are thousands of people like that, sitting in prison. Another large sum goes to the families of people killed in clashes with the IDF [Israel Defense Forces]. They also get up to 15,000 shekels a month. More money goes to cover the legal expenses of terrorists in Israeli courts. All of that is paid for by Mahmoud Abbas. He doesnt just cover the cost for Fatah activists, but for members of Hamas and Islamic Jihad too. They all get money from him. And the money is also used to finance incitement in the Palestinian media. So instead of restoring calm, what happens is the exact opposite. Instead of defeating terrorism, the Netanyahu government tries to contain it, and that is its big mistake. They are trying to buy peace and quiet with lots and lots of money. Al-Monitor: But it can also be argued that the intifada of individuals is rooted, among other things, in the sense of frustration that young Palestinians feel, and that this could be assuaged by improving their economic situation, don't you think? Liberman: Thats the big mistake. This is not an intifada of individuals. People don't realize it. This is organized terrorism. The classic terrorism of the past was based on cells and the use of various means of communications to activate people. Today terrorists dont need any of that. They have replaced cells with social networks. Still, it is all funded. Incitement is still being organized by professionals, and they get money for it from Mahmoud Abbas. Al-Monitor: In the current wave of terrorism, young people spontaneously commit terrorist attacks. How can you rein in this mood, this concept? Liberman: But they are still organized, like I just said. That is why we have to attack the people issuing the orders and organizing activities over the Internet. Given these circumstances, there are two possible approaches. The first is to go after the lower ranks, or the small fish, if you will. Alternately, it is also possible to go after the organizers and those who give the orders. Its the same as the difference between drying up the swamps or going after individual mosquitoes. What Netanyahu and [Defense Minister Moshe] Yaalon are doing is swatting the individual mosquitoes instead of drying up the swamp. What I propose are 10 specific points, which include more than just stopping the transfer of money. It also includes expelling the families of terrorists to the Gaza Strip, denying residency status to Arab residents of East Jerusalem who are involved in terrorism, as well as to their families, passing legislation imposing a death penalty on terrorists and stopping the transfer of terrorists bodies to their families. Al-Monitor: Do you really think that Yaalon, a former chief of staff with enormous security and operational experience, is such a terrible defense minister? Liberman: I dont think he is fit for the job. Hes just not built for it. Its too big for him. Its very possible that he was good at field operations, but I have issues with his very approach. What started the whole argument between us over Operation Protective Edge [in the summer of 2014] was that I said, Youre not going all the way. If were not willing to rein in terrorism in Gaza right now, then it will spill over into Judea and Samaria, and from there to Jerusalem, and from there to metropolitan Tel Aviv.'' That's exactly what is happening now. The minute you leave a source of terrorism intact and fail to harm them ideologically, financially or operationally, there is no way left to rein in that terrorism. Netanyahu and Yaalon really are swatting at mosquitoes. Thats the difference between us. I am talking about defeating terrorism, while Netanyahu is talking about containing it. Al-Monitor: There have recently been several initiatives to withdraw unilaterally from certain neighborhoods in East Jerusalem in order to stop the wave of terror. What do you think about that? Liberman: Right now, none of that is relevant. Its impossible to reach a diplomatic arrangement while we are still in the midst of this wave of terrorism. Its like laying the foundations for a new house right in the middle of an earthquake. You can only reach a diplomatic arrangement after the dispute is decided. All historical precedents prove that. If the dispute hasnt been decided, there is no way to reach an agreement. That is exactly what is happening now in Syria, Iraq, Libya and Yemen. The fighting continues. Only after the outcome has been determined decisively is it possible to reach a diplomatic arrangement. Thats how World War I and World War II ended. Only after Nazi Germany surrendered in World War II could they reach an agreement and redraw all the borders in Europe and Southeast Asia. Al-Monitor: Do you concur with the rights criticism of the IDF leadership, including the Chief of Military Intelligence Herzl Halevi, who warned that the continued deterioration of the economic situation in Gaza will be explosive? Liberman: I will not engage the top military brass in arguments, and I would suggest to all politicians to do the same. They should not be engaging the army and its generals in debates through the media. There are appropriate forums for that. Theres the [diplomatic-security] Cabinet, and there are all the subcommittees of the Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee. Any politicians with something to say should say it there instead of arguing with the military in public. Al-Monitor: Is the crisis that faced Yisrael Beitenu behind you? Liberman: I think were in a good place right now. We gave up our seats in the government and remained faithful to our principles. So, for example, I heard that Ministers Yariv Levin and Gilad Erdan opposed Kahlons transfer of half a billion shekels to the Palestinians, but their hands are tied. And they cant fight it from the inside, because as soon as you are part of the coalition, collective responsibility encompasses you too. It is my assessment that new elections are approaching. Once the government starts to lose public support, the breakdown begins. Nothing can prevent it, because no politician wants to be identified with the failure. Basically, no politician has any interest in advancing the election, because it is more convenient for them to stay where they are, instead of going to primaries again. But then the government loses public support and elections become inevitable. That is what we are heading toward now. February 29, 2016 ''I am well known for being a strong friend of Israel, but I have to say the first time I visited Jerusalem and had a proper tour around that wonderful city and saw what had happened with the effective encirclement of East Jerusalem occupied East Jerusalem it is genuinely shocking," British Prime Minister David Cameron told parliament member Imran Hussain Feb. 24, when asked what Britain is doing to prevent the violation of human rights by Israel in the territories. Cameron immediately became the target of Israeli public relations artillery. It didnt bother Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Jerusalem Mayor Nir Barkat that Cameron is considered Israel's true friend. Netanyahu, instead of responding diplomatically and explaining the necessity of the checkpoints in the current round of violence, preferred to hit Cameron who does not hesitate to confront Israels harshest critics below the belt. My friend David Cameron seems to have forgotten a few basic facts about Jerusalem. Only Israeli sovereignty guarantees the Arab residents of the city roads, clinics, employment and all the other trappings of normal life that their brethren do not enjoy elsewhere in the Middle East, Netanyahu sniped. Barkat, too, chose to insult Cameron. The quality of life for East Jerusalem residents is constantly progressing and is far superior to the quality of life for residents in any of our neighboring countries, certainly better than at the time of the British Mandate in Israel, he said. Cameron visited Israel in March 2014 and gave a speech at the Knesset. Since the end of the mandate, no official British representative, and certainly not one at the rank of prime minister, has ever been heard saying such warm things about Israel and publicly declaring his commitment to its security from the podium of the Knesset. To put the offensive Israeli response in perspective, we should return to the main points of Camerons speech. Israel is the homeland of the Jewish people, and we will not agree to any demand that would hurt you. Israels place is founded in international law and in history, said Cameron, who even addressed the boycott, divestment and sanctions movement. Britain, declared Cameron, opposes boycotts, whether it is trade unions campaigning for the exclusion of Israelis or universities trying to stifle academic exchange. Delegitimizing the State of Israel is wrong; it is abhorrent and together we will defeat it, he promised. Just a few days before the Israeli attack on Cameron, ads were posted at London Underground stations by the BDS movement, protesting Britains ties with Israel. On that occasion as well, the Israeli response was hysterical. Yair Lapid, the chairman of Yesh Atid, called his friend the mayor of London, while Netanyahu called the director of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Dore Gold, who was in London that day, and asked him to request that the British government take down the signs immediately. Whether its inspired by the attitude of commander Netanyahu or the prevailing sense in Israel that the world is always against us, the sense of offense that turns every friend into an enemy if he dares disagree with Israeli policy has become a common Israeli syndrome. The fact that Israel has few friends left in the world doesnt make the slightest difference when it comes to its derisive reactions to good friends. US President Barack Obama, during whose term in the White House Israel has received wide-ranging security aid, has been successfully characterized by Netanyahu in the eyes of the Israeli public as an unfriendly, bordering on hostile president. The prime minister refuses to sign on to the national security aid package that Obama has offered, totalling $4.1 billion a year, and prefers to wait for the next president on the assumption that the next would be more friendly and understanding of Israels needs. Another friend, Secretary of State John Kerry whom the government of Israel headed by Netanyahu has also successfully painted for the public as an enemy has accurately and distressingly criticized Israels conduct, and in a December interview for The New Yorker magazine warned about Israels policy of fortification. In their wild attack on Cameron, Netanyahu and Barkat claimed that such needful things as roads, clinics and workplaces are available to residents of East Jerusalem, and they would not find them, for instance, in Iraq or Syria. This they did even though Cameron made no argument regarding discrimination or lack of infrastructure. The prevailing worldview in Israel is that its Arab citizens (about a fifth of its total population), must be grateful every day that they do not live in Arab countries and that they benefit from the graces of this nation. In this manner, its customary to brush off the valid complaints of Arab citizens regarding discrimination against them and their resulting distress and exclusion. To the heart of the matter: A 2012 report by the Association for Civil Rights in Israel showed that 84% of children in East Jerusalem were poor. An updated report published this month by the Ir Amim organization determined that the poverty rate among Arab families in Jerusalem is 3.5 times that of the Jewish population. The report also exposes the gaps in public investment between Jewish and Arab neighborhoods in Jerusalem. For instance, the budget for transportation and engineering services in 2013 stood at 654 million shekels ($167 million) allocated for western neighborhoods, compared to 62 million shekels ($15.85 million) for the citys eastern neighborhoods. This report, which was based on open and official databases, exposes enormous inequalities in infrastructure, education, employment, health and more between western and eastern Jerusalem neighborhoods. So in their rush to claim the British prime minister was forgetting some important facts about Jerusalem, Barkat and Netanyahu have glossed over the state of residents of East Jerusalem before they went on the offensive against their friend from 10 Downing St. February 26, 2016 CAIRO Political and technical negotiations between Cairo and Addis Ababa on Nile River water management remain at a standstill in light of Ethiopias insistence on going forward with construction of the Renaissance Dam, which threatens Egyptian Nile water interests. This once again pushed the Egyptian political administration to renew its policy based on mending and strengthening its relationship with other Nile upstream countries in the equatorial lakes region, especially the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has been one of Egypts political and strategic allies since the beginning of the Nile water dispute. On Feb. 4, Augustin Matata Ponyo, the Democratic Republic of Congo's prime minister, visited Cairo for three days at the head of a delegation that included the ministers of energy, water and industry. Ponyo held extensive meetings with President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and Prime Minister Sherif Ismail. In addition, a memorandum of understanding was inked between Egypt and the Democratic Republic of Congo on the Inga Dam project. In a press conference held at the Council of Ministers, the Egyptian and Congolese prime ministers announced that Egypt will participate in stages 3 and 4 of the Inga Dam construction project and stated that an Egyptian official visit to the Democratic Republic of Congo will be scheduled to acquire further accurate information about the dam. In this regard, Egypts Minister of Electricity and Energy Mohamed Shaker told Al-Monitor, We will provide technical, technological and engineering support for the construction of the Inga Dam. Shaker talked about how Egypt will benefit from the Congolese dam project. There are ambitious plans for power grids [interconnecting] between South Africa and North Africa, whose execution may require some time but there is a vision to start the execution of these plans on the ground over different stages, he said. The Egyptian grants that were agreed upon during the visit reached $10 million and were allocated for the execution of six projects, including the design studies and commissioning of the Inga Dam and other service projects to dig wells for providing drinking water, as well as scholarships and training for workers in the field of water resources in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Egyptian Minister of Water Resources and Irrigation Hossam Maghazi told Al-Monitor, The Egyptian Ministry of Irrigation will send a delegation to [the Democratic Republic of Congo] to follow up on the implementation of cooperation projects and on all matters related to coordination on the execution of the Inga Dam. The Inga Dam, located on the Congo River 225 kilometers (140 miles) southwest of the capital, Kinshasa, is one of the largest hydropower projects in Africa. It is designed to generate 40,000 megawatts of electricity. The project, which is still under construction, is facing financial hurdles with the estimated cost to build it having risen to $80 billion, and counting. Congolese Minister of Energy and Water Matadi Gamanda told Al-Monitor, The completion of the dam is facing major challenges in terms of design, financing and management, and we hope Egypt will cooperate with us on facing these challenges. He added, The Inga Dam project will be the largest integration project in Africa, which is still in need of more power to meet the needs of its population." We do intend to compete with Ethiopia in terms for the production of hydroelectric power. The Inga Dam project will certainly provide huge amounts of energy that may not be compared with a project such as the Ethiopian Renaissance Dam." It should be noted that Egypt's water interests with the Democratic Republic of Congo are not limited to Egyptian official support to the Inga Dam; Egypt raised proposals in the last three years aimed at pumping more water into the Nile River in the equatorial lakes region by linking the Nile and Congo rivers, to provide Egypt with additional water shares a proposed project that was subject to a wide technical controversy. Gamanda said of this proposal, This project is not realistic; it is merely a dream. What is more important now is to promote cooperation to help [the Democratic Republic of Congo] benefit from the water resources on its territory." He added, [The Democratic Republic of Congo's] position to support Egypt in the dispute between it and the Nile upstream countries on water management in the Nile basin is clear and explicit. "We will not sign any agreements that harm Egyptian interests," Gamanda added, referring to the Agreement on the Nile Basin Cooperative Framework, also known as the Entebbe Agreement. The agreement was signed by the six Nile Basin upstream countries and rejected by the downstream countries, Egypt and Sudan, which object to clauses giving upstream countries the right to exploit the Nile resources without being bound by the obligations not to harm water interests or historical quotas. "We are ready to act as mediator again between Egypt and the rest of the Nile upstream countries in order to renegotiate the agreement and resolve this crisis, if Egypt asks us to play this role, said Gamanda. It seems that Cairo is banking on improving its relationship with the Democratic Republic of Congo as an important step to ensure Egypts presence in the Niles headwaters (the equatorial lakes) region by building on the Democratic Republic of Congos policies and its support for Egypts stance during the arduous negotiations over the past 10 years with the Nile upstream countries on water management in the Nile River basin. Mohamed Nasreddin Allam, the former minister of water resources and irrigation who participated in the negotiations with the Nile Basin countries between 2009 and 2011, told Al-Monitor, "[The Democratic Republic of Congo] has been consistently supporting the Egyptian stance and opinion and refused to sign the Entebbe Agreement unlike Burundi, which signed it after the Egyptian revolution in 2011. He added, The current political coordination of positions with [the Democratic Republic of Congo] is important in order for Egypt to gain a strong African ally, especially in light of enormous pressures on Egypt by the Nile upstream countries and poor coordination with Sudan, which was a strategic ally of Egypt in the Nile water issue. Allam said, Egypt's support to Inga Dam in [the Democratic Republic of Congo] is a strong pressure card against Ethiopia's dream to be the only source of energy export to the African countries, since the execution and commissioning of the dam will turn [the Democratic Republic of Congo] into the first energy exporter in Africa as well as the cheapest and safest alternative. It seems the Egyptian political administration has managed to gain allies from among the Nile upstream countries to secure its water interests. Yet its biggest challenge is to link its official rapprochement policies to projects and direct interests that bring about tangible benefits for the peoples of the upstream countries aspiring for development and not just contenting itself with official visits and political promises. February 29, 2016 As the nationwide results of Iran's parliamentary and Assembly of Experts elections roll in, it has become clear that Reformists and moderate conservatives, both of whom have been supportive of President Hassan Rouhanis policies, have taken an early lead and kept key hard-liners out of office. All the 30 candidates under the Reformist list for Tehran have been voted into parliament, blocking all the candidates from the conservative list. The top candidate was Reformist leader Mohammad Reza Aref. The second was Ali Motahari, a moderate conservative candidate who was on the Reformist list. In one of its most unusual aspects, the list featured eight female candidates, who have all made it into parliament. The exclusion of hard-line figures and former allies of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad will be welcome news for Rouhani as he focuses on domestic policy in the final two years of his presidency. After losing a number of high-profile elections in the last decade, Ayatollah Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani has made a comeback, winning the most votes in Tehran for the Assembly of Experts. Rouhani, who belonged to the same moderate list as Rafsanjani, was also one of the top candidates. In fact, 15 of Tehran's 16 seats in the Assembly of Experts went to Rouhani allies. Notable omissions from the Tehran assembly list included Ayatollah Mohammad Yazdi and Ayatollah Mohammad-Taghi Mesbah Yazdi. Many critics of Mesbah Yazdi, the former spiritual adviser to hard-line President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and current spiritual leader of the hard-line Endurance Front, noted that he once said, In an Islamic government the vote of the people has no religious or legal validity. Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, who also heads the powerful Guardian Council, squeaked by in 16th place on the Assembly list for Tehran. Reformist media outlets have been jubilant about the results coming out of the Interior Ministry. Many Reformist newspapers are featuring pictures of Rouhani and Rafsanjani and listing the 30 candidates that won Tehran's parliament seats. Some hard-line outlets have attempted to declare victory, grouping themselves and moderate conservatives under one conservative umbrella. Moderate conservatives have been mostly allied with the president on key decisions in the country. While the official countrywide results are not yet in, it is possible that conservative candidates will do well in other provinces. However, the failure of hard-line candidates in Tehran is certainly a blow that will be difficult to recover from. Analyst Mehdi Mohammadi, a former adviser to hard-line former nuclear negotiator Saeed Jalili, conceded that these elections were a blow to conservatives in Tehran. From my view, more than anything else, the people have decided to give the Hassan Rouhani administration more time, he wrote on his Telegram account. Perhaps criticizing Reformists for their reactions to past election losses, he added that conservatives will abide by the ethics of failure in acepting the loss. Irans Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei praised the election process. In a message posted on his website, he wrote that for the 36th time since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Iranians took part in nationwide elections and showed the bright and powerful face of a religious democracy to the world. Khamenei said that these are sensitive times and that the future parliament will have a heavy responsibility. February 29, 2016 BABIL, Iraq Religious monuments, mostly shrines of historical and religious figures, are spread across Iraq. However, the Babil governorate (100 kilometers, or 62 miles, south of Baghdad) is unique, having a large number of prophets and saints shrines of different religions. According to the information engraved on every tomb, these prophets and saints had passed through, dwelled or died in the city. In the city of Hillah, the provincial capital, lies the tomb of Nabi Ayoub on the Shatt al-Hilla, which is a branch of the Euphrates River. Nabi Ayoub is also known as Job in the bible. A placard hanging on the wall inside the tomb says that Ayoub is the prophet mentioned in the Quran who existed about 2,500 years ago. He was known as the epitome of patience and endurance, and people followed his example. Al-Monitor watched people visiting the premises, drinking and bathing in the water of a well nearby. An elderly woman with a cup of water in her hand to anoint herself told Al-Monitor, God created this well under the feet of Ayoub, and it heals people. Although Ayoub was not a Muslim, Muslims make pilgrimages to visit his shrine, as he was mentioned in the Quran as being a prophet sent by God. While people agree that Ayoub was a prophet sent by God, they disagree on where he dwelled. He has a shrine in Syria and Oman as well. Sheikh Ali al-Yasiri, a cleric supervising the premises, told Al-Monitor, The prophet was born in Syria and immigrated to Iraq. There is no tangible proof of this, but Yasiri said, [This is] historical information passed on from generation to generation. In the city of Kifl, about 30 kilometers (19 miles) from Hillah, lies the shrine of the Jewish prophet Dhul-Kifl, who arrived in Iraq during the first Babylonian captivity against Jews in 597 B.C. Muslims make pilgrimages to his tomb because his name was also mentioned in the Quran as a prophet sent by God. Al-Monitor visited the site, which includes the shrines of other Jewish religious figures such as the tomb of Prophet Jonah, who was known to be among those who wrote the ancient Talmud, a collection of sacred texts given by God to Prophet Musa when he was on the mountain, according to Jews. Hassan al-Maliki, a history teacher in the junior high school in Babil, told Al-Monitor, [There is] no confirmed information about the history of these sites, but they have become sacred places because of their spiritual symbolism. He added, The strong sense of religious faith is the main reason that drives people to visit these places, as opposed to other historical landmarks in Babil and Kish that do not hold any religious representation. Religious tourism is also common in other areas in the region, as is the case with the tomb of the Prophet Ibrahim in Borsippa, which is located between Kufa and Hillah. It was turned into a religious shrine topped by a green dome and visited by people as part of their religious pilgrimages. The existence of this shrine is in conflict with historical information that Prophet Ibrahim was born in the city of Ur, in Nasiriyah governorate in southern Iraq. Cleric Hamza al-Yasiri told Al-Monitor, Prophet Ibrahim is the father of Islam, Christianity and Judaism. Although the house where he was born was discovered in the city of Ur, the stories circulating among people say he lived in this place. There is no historical evidence to prove Yasiris statement, but historical facts seem to be of no importance in the eyes of the people here. The problem does not lie in the religious significance of these sites but in the fact that the majority of these religious landmarks are associated with Shiites who revere imams and religious figures in the form of shrines and tombs, unlike other branches of Islam such as the Wahhabi sect prevailing in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf that view this as a form of idolatry. This explains the destruction of many tombs in the areas of conflict between Sunnis and Shiites, as is the case with the shrine of Prophet al-Khidr in northern Babil, which was destroyed by al-Qaeda militants in 2008. These groups believe that visiting tombs is a form of idolatry, while it was a prestigious religious shrine visited by many Shiites. Cleric Omran al-Yasiri told Al-Monitor, The miracles performed in the shrines are enough proof that it is the grave of Prophet al-Khidr. This is far more significant than any historical research about the place. Compared to other nonreligious, neglected historical landmarks and archaeological monuments that are affiliated with the Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities, these shrines are equipped and very well maintained with available services. This is due to social solidarity and donations of people to restore these places that represent a religious significance for them, Suhaila al-Khikany, a member of the Babil provincial council, told Al-Monitor. Cleric Saeed al-Moussawi told Al-Monitor, Questioning the [authenticity] of these shrines is a conspiracy by takfiris who call for the demolition of religious tombs and graves, which is exactly what the Islamic State espouses. However, questioning the existence or authenticity of these shrines is a legitimate right of the people, according to a social worker who spoke to Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity. Some people exploit religious faith to build fake shrines to save their own interests and make money, he said, stressing that religious authorities and leaders reject such allegations. Sheikh Mohammed al-Yacoubi said back in April 3, 2013, Religious shrines have become widespread, without any verification or fact-checking of information. Regardless of the opinion of officials or religious authorities on these shrines, there is no denying that they have turned into religious tourist attractions for people in and outside Iraq. This should be a reason to push religious tourism in the country to generate further revenues to the states budget in light of the economic crisis caused by plummeting oil prices. February 29, 2016 Egyptian parliament member and TV talk show host Tawfiq Okasha let the genie out of the bottle. Even though a shoe was thrown in his face by Kamel Ahmed, another parliament member, and despite the savage attacks directed at him in the Egyptian media and public forum in recent days, the sharp-tongued, brazen Okasha doesnt get excited. His crime was defined by the media as the crime of normalization, for the fact that he invited Haim Koren, Israels ambassador to Egypt, to his house for dinner on Feb. 24. Okasha even heaped praises on the ambassador and on the collaboration and normalization of relations between Israel and Egypt. Okasha wouldnt have dared to invite Koren without a wink from someone upstairs. He knows that Egypts higher stratums from the president to the regimes high echelons, the military, intelligence and the elites view Israel as an important, powerful ally in regional struggles. But the other Egypt, the lower echelons, have not yet internalized this change. The masses, together with most of the politicians, public opinion leaders, journalists and writers still view the Jewish state as a type of satanic entity: the eternal, mythological and hated enemy. And they see no reason to moderate their view of the Jewish state at this time. The peace agreement between Israel and Egypt was signed in March 1979, almost 37 years ago on the White House lawn, at a ceremony attended by Prime Minister Menachem Begin, US President Jimmy Carter and Egyptian President Anwar Sadat. The agreement has survived many vicissitudes over the years and demonstrates impressive stability, but has no effect on the lives of the Egyptian masses. Normalization does not exist; Egyptian citizens were barred from visiting Israel by the mukhabarat (Egyptian secret service). Any flash or hint of any kind of cooperation with official Israeli sources, any clue of an Israeli presence in culture, films or literature immediately encounters a barbed-wire wall of invectives, vituperation and violence from all sides. The stormy love affair between Egypt and Israel is dramatic and clandestine. Israels military censorship forbids dissemination of exact details of the deepening cooperation between the states. It was actually Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, in an interview with the Washington Post in March 2015, who said that he speaks to Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu frequently, sometimes several times a month. In reality, Sisi talks to Netanyahu even more than that, and not only to Netanyahu. On the list of Egypts close allies, Israels name is a front-runner. It is almost unprecedented how so many of the interests of the two countries have converged and complement one another. Even the list of enemies held by Israel and Egypt includes the same names, more or less. It is very convenient for Sisi to secretly enjoy the fruits of Israels intelligence, experience and power, while publically allowing his nations masses to curse and abuse Israel as an anger-channeling tool and a type of demon or scapegoat that can be blamed for all of Egypts socio-economic problems. Nonetheless, it is clear that the closeness between Sisi and Israels highest echelons is not a superficial one. Sisi understands the situation, said a high-ranking Israeli security source speaking on condition of anonymity. He knows exactly whom he can trust in the region and whom he cant. He knows whats good for Egypt and, under the correct circumstances, whats good for Egypt is also good for Israel. Following the incident in which Koren dined at Okashas table, the Israeli ambassador told Channel 10 that he himself met personally with Sisi recently a number of times. This, too, is unprecedented. Until the Sisi era, Israeli ambassadors in Egypt were ostracized outcasts: They were holed up in an isolated embassy, totally cut off from the country around them. They spent their weekends in Israel in order to breathe some fresh air and mingle with other people. Suddenly, the Israeli ambassador has become a welcome, frequent guest in the Egyptian presidents premises. Sisi, who long served as a general, himself is well-acquainted with, and close to, Israeli Chief of Staff Lt. Gen. Gadi Eizenkot. They once served in parallel positions in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and the Egyptian army. Thus, their cooperation extends over many years, and they share a common language and mutual respect. Sisi and his generals also share close relationships with the IDF higher-ups. For the first time in many generations, intelligence information is almost totally shared between the sides, mainly with regard to the struggle against the Islamic State (IS) branch in the Sinai Peninsula. Israel and Egypt rely on one another in their joint struggle against Hamas and IS. As far as the Egyptians are concerned, a senior Israeli military source told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity, the Muslim Brotherhood is comparable to the Nazis. Hamas is perceived as an arm of the Muslim Brotherhood; thus, they are viewed as an enemy that must be destroyed. The Islamic State has joined this equation recently, and they share the exact same rubric. For many long years, Israel begged the Egyptians to block Hamas tunnels tunnels that allowed Gaza to become a veritable storehouse of weapons, rockets and missiles. Under former President Hosni Mubarak, and also under his successor, Mohammed Morsi, Egypt almost didnt lift a finger. Egypt's actions were half-hearted and had little effect on reality. By contrast, Sisi adopted this mission with great zeal, and the Egyptians destroyed all of the tunnels. Some were flooded with ocean water and some were blocked up. They did this out of unmistakable Egyptian interests: Intelligence information, some of which came from Israel, point to tight coordination between Hamas and Ansar Bayt al-Maqdis in Sinai, which turned into a local branch of IS. Sisi declared an all-out war on IS, and he could not have made any achievements without the great assistance he received from Israel, in many different spheres. According to a high-placed Israeli military source, speaking on condition of anonymity, The efficacy of the Egyptian army in its war against IS is gradually improving. This is true for intelligence, for preciseness and for rapid response. The Egyptians know that Gazas Hamas provides IS with military experts, they know that wounded Sinai IS operatives are treated in Gaza, they know that there is a direct, close connection between the sides. Thus, they try to block all passageways between the Gaza Strip and Sinai. According to IDF officials, if theres one place in which it is possible to sound the death knell for IS and defeat it unconditionally, that place is Sinai. We are looking at an isolated peninsula. IS is cut off from the rest of the world. They are surrounded by Egypt and Israel. Their power is limited; were talking about a couple of hundred fighters, thats all, said an Israeli military source, speaking on condition of anonymity. Its all a question of determination and resolve. If Sisi will demonstrate determination over time, he can win a historic victory in Sinai. Paradoxically, when it comes to the Gaza Strip, Israel and Egypts interests diverge. Cairo, on the one hand, declared an all-out war on Hamas, including the closure of the Gaza Strip and throwing the keys into the ocean. But Israel, on the other hand, has come to the understanding that the Gaza pressure cooker is liable to blow up powerfully again in Israels face, a la the 2014 Operation Protective Edge model. Though Israels political echelon still rejects the pleas of the military echelon regarding planning a naval port for Gaza, the proposal regarding allowing Gaza laborers to work in Israel and the efforts to alleviate the living conditions there show that Israel clearly understands the situation. The Egyptians, by contrast, take these elements into account much less. When Gaza erupts, it becomes Israels problem, not Egypts. February 26, 2016 The Quartet (United States, United Nations, European Union and Russia) decision taken on the sidelines of the Munich Security Conference on Feb. 12 is a landmark for the efforts of the international community to revitalize an Israeli-Palestinian two-state solution process. The Quartet decided to compose a report that will outline the obstacles that today are preventing a renewed peace process as well as recommendations for restarting Israeli-Palestinian negotiations. The driving force behind the Quartets decision was the EU High Commissioner for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Federica Mogherini. An official close to the High Representative told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity that there is a consensus within the EU that without a political horizon, the situation within the Palestinian Authority risks deteriorating, possibly leading to an armed intifada and even to the resignation of President Mahmoud Abbas. Mogherini believes that, similarly to the case of the Iran deal, it is important to create an international consensus of the main powers for the sake of Israeli-Palestinian conflict resolution. In this way, the Quartet may become a mechanism that will bypass the Security Council and initiatives of individual countries such as the United States and France. According to the official, the report will be prepared by envoys of the Quartet to the region and presented to the foreign ministers for a decision as to how to proceed. It will include a common analysis of the existing roadblocks for a peace process, and therefore will deal in detail with settlement expansion, land appropriation, incitement to violence and violence, both in regard to the Palestinian sporadic terror attacks in the past three months and to Israeli settler violence against Palestinian civilians. The EU official said that the Quartet does not intend to blame any of the parties, but rather to analyze the situation in a balanced way in order to create a better environment for the renewal of a two-state process. As to a formula on the renewal of negotiations, it will have to be negotiated by the foreign ministers of the Quartet, based on the recommendations in the report. Mogherini herself, according to the official, will consult in advance of the report with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Abbas, as well as with the leaders of Egypt, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. The EU sees the Arab Peace Initiative of 2002 as a valid basis for future negotiations, but also recognizes the need for mutual land swaps in relation to the 1967 lines and for security arrangements to satisfy Israeli interests within a two-state solution. While the decision on the report was reached in consensus, there is a diversity of views within the Quartet about the kind of policy platform to set for all future negotiations. A senior State Department official told Al-Monitor on condition of anonymity that Secretary of State John Kerry is very much in support of the Quartet report. The United States will, in view of sharp European criticism of Netanyahus settlement policies, attempt to balance in the report what it perceives as excessively critical approaches toward Israel by the EU, Russia and the UN. In the American view, the Arab Peace Initiative cannot be the main basis for future negotiations as it does not emphasize sufficiently the necessary security and anti-terror arrangements within a permanent status agreement. The Obama administration, according to the official who is frequently in the region, is interested in creating a policy platform for a two-state solution for the post-Obama era. It will do so both within the Quartet and also in the form of US policy guidelines for a two-state solution. Various expressions of such guidelines are still being considered, including the possibility of an important presidential policy speech. The Quartet decision is significant both in the short and long term. For the immediate future, it may give Abbas a political horizon to point to. In regard to Israel, it may start a political debate over the value of the Quartets recommendations. In the long term, the mechanism more than the specific recommendations is of importance; it may be the beginning of a conflict resolution process on the Israeli-Palestinian issue by international consensus and not merely, as in the past, by the United States. In all likelihood, a new platform for a two-state solution process can be realized only after the upcoming US presidential elections and after the two parties Israel and the PA have exhausted all other alternatives. February 29, 2016 AMMAN, Jordan Amman is blocking approximately 27,000 Syrian refugees from leaving a Jordanian desert area near the countrys northeast border, an international aid official citing Jordanian border guards told Al-Monitor. The number of Syrian refugees in Ruqban and Hadalat is significantly higher than the number the Associated Press reported earlier. One European diplomat called the conditions at the border horrific and brutal in a conversation with Al-Monitor. At least 10 Syrian refugees have died, including two infants during birth, said another European official based in Jordan. Each of the officials Al-Monitor spoke with for this article requested anonymity due to the sensitive nature of this situation and concern for upsetting the Jordanian government. One individual feared that Amman would not renew his visa, while an international aid official said that Jordan could delay humanitarian assistance to refugees for their publicly speaking to the media about their plight in the "berm" the name used by humanitarian organizations for this area near the Syrian-Jordanian border. In a Feb. 2 interview with the BBC, King Abdullah II said there were elements of the Islamic State among the refugees, and that some had previously resided in Raqqa, the IS capital. Abdullah explained that security forces must conduct vigorous inspections to protect the Hashemite Kingdoms security and so keep the refugees in this isolated location. He said that any Western nation is welcome to absorb these refugees, but no country has volunteered to do so. However, a senior international aid official rejected Abdullahs allegations as an unsubstantiated claim. The official told Al-Monitor, There is no evidence of IS infiltration in that group. The Jordanian military denied Al-Monitors repeated requests to visit Ruqban, where most of the stranded Syrian refugees are located. The international aid official said the vast majority of those in the berm are children, elderly, women and people who are sick. Hygiene remains a significant concern in Ruqban, with an aid official explaining that there is a rat problem in addition to 350 cases of a parasitic disease called Leishmaniasis. Andrew Harper, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees' representative in Jordan, told AP on Jan. 31 that an additional 4,000-5,000 refugees reach the border area each month. In September, aid officials said that approximately 3,000 Syrians had arrived in this remote desert area. By December, this number had jumped to 12,000 and has only continued to climb. Since the Jordanian military does not enter the border area, an international aid official noted the challenges of operating in Ruqban. It is very chaotic and we are not allowed to go inside the berm because if we go inside, it is at our own risk since there is no security there. He said that he had heard about people with weapons in the area. Another informed source explained how women are afraid to go to the bathroom after dark because of a lack of security. He said that with the increased population, tensions have spiked among the refugees, who are competing for limited resources. While aid officials are able to provide the most basic necessities including water and food, the humanitarian mission is especially challenging since the closest city is about 150 kilometers (90 miles) away from the area, with a limited and poor road network. According to the UNHCR, Jordan has absorbed 637,000 Syrian refugees since 2011. However, the Jordanian government claims the country is hosting double the number 1.3 million and under domestic pressure to limit the intake of additional refugees. While acknowledging Ammans legitimate security concerns, a senior European diplomat told Al-Monitor, The international community has made it clear to the government of Jordan that it cannot have an indefinite situation where these people are stuck on the border. The official added, It is clearly bad for the Jordanian image that they are holding people at the border and [Syrian refugees] are suffering from food shortages, lack of medical care and decent shelter. But the European critique of Jordans image is surprising, given the vast disparity between the number of refugees Amman has admitted compared to European countries that frequently emphasize the importance of human rights. In a Feb. 2 op-ed in the British newspaper The Independent, Abdullah asserted that Jordans economy is less than 0.001% of that of the United States and the European Union. Yet Amman has accepted at least 60 times the number of Syrian refugees as that of France and 250 times the number of refugees currently in Italy. Given the difficult circumstances, what are the specific recommendations of aid workers to end the crisis in the berm? The international aid official Al-Monitor spoke to urged the government to establish a special high security area in the Azraq camp located some 100 kilometers (60 miles) east of Amman which was meant to house 130,000 refugees but currently only hosts about 18,500 individuals. Under his plan, UN agencies would be able to offer better quality medical and housing services in addition to providing security, which is currently nonexistent in Ruqban. But the Jordanian government has rejected moving the 27,000 Syrians from this isolated area, instead allowing approximately 60 refugees to enter the rest of the country on a daily basis. Inside the berm, there is no water and no way to grow food, so the 20,000 inhabitants are completely dependent on international agencies for survival. One official said, There is nothing that people can do to help themselves there. If the truck of water doesnt get through, the consequences could be dire. February 25, 2016 When eastern Libya erupted in protest against the regime of Moammar Gadhafi on Feb. 15, 2011, it took Seif al-Islam Gadhafi Moammar Gadhafis son and favorite heir at the time a full five days to appear on state TV to explain to the nation what was going on. After that famous speech, Seif al-Islam Gadhafi was accused by many Libyans, outside observers and even the International Criminal Court of inciting violence and threatening his countrymen that they either had to stop all anti-government activities or face the consequences. Not many people paid any attention to the predictions he made about the future of Libya. Five years on, however, most of what the young Gadhafi predicted has proved accurate. Among other things, he predicted Libyans would lack security, the country would descend into chaos and lawlessness, many Libyans would die, the West would intervene and the economy would collapse because the oil would "cease to flow. He also warned Libyans against dividing the country and having fanatic Islamic organizations take over some areas, if not all of them. He said many Libyans would be displaced inside and outside their country, repeating the same pattern of 100 years ago when Italy occupied Libya in 1911, forcing thousands to migrate to neighboring countries. Seif al-Islam Gadhafi spoke for almost 40 minutes predicting that oil would be burned and what remained would hardly be useful to the country. Indeed, in the first nine months of 2015, Libyas crude oil production averaged just slightly more than 400,000 barrels per day, significantly below the 1.65 million barrels per day average the country produced in 2010. Oil tanks supplying cities such as Tripoli were set on fire in July 2014, and about a dozen oil tanks in Ras Lanuf oil terminals, where most exports take place, were set ablaze by the Islamic State as recently as January. The terminals were taken over by an armed militia that was supposed to protect them; all exports from those terminals have been suspended since late 2013. Last summer, one of the major oil fields to the south of Ras Lanuf was completely destroyed by another militia believed to be made up of nearby residents angry over jobs that were promised to them by National Oil Corp. but never actually materialized. Power shortages have been a part of life across Libya since 2011. Gadhafi also predicted that his country could very well be divided again as it was before the country gained independence in 1951. It was divided into three regions: Tripolitania, Cyrenaica and Fezzan. Five years after the revolution, Libya is moving ever closer toward the situation since it lacks a central government, a unified army and functioning state security. The younger Gadhafi also talked about arms availability and its consequences. Libyan lawmaker Saleh Jaweida estimated that there are nearly 20 million weapons in the hands of the people, which could explain why the murder rate is rising and why small quarrels could easily turn into wars between tribes and gangs. However, accurate data is lacking. While there are no precise figures for the total number of war deaths that engulfed the country in 2011, former Health Minister Naji Baraka estimated in 2011 this to be around 30,000 deaths with 50,000 injured, prompting the successive governments to create the Ministry of Martyrs, Injured and the Missing, which is in southern Tripolis Damascus district. It is only fair to say that Gadhafi predicted a terrible future for his people and five years on, they are living that very future. Gadhafi said, We might return to the days of poverty, which has happened. Despite the lack of official figures, observations reveal that thousands of families can hardly make ends meet. According to UN figures, at least half a million people are displaced from their homes inside the country; many in the refugee camps across the country depend on charities. The black Libyans are singled out for severe retribution since they are tagged by the rebels as pro-Gadhafi. The Libyan banking system is collapsing slowly under the heavy weight of corruption and embezzlement, and above all the lack of liquidity, making it difficult for people to access their own savings. Government salaries are usually paid three months late. Seif al-Islam Gadhafi certainly wanted to defend his fathers reign, but in the process he not only predicted what would happen, but also pointed out that Libya is not the same as Tunisia or Egypt. Libya, he said, is made up of tribes and clans, which make it harder to bring [society] together if it collapsed. Five years on, he has been proved right. While the civil war of 2011 divided Libyans along tribal lines, pushing the country further toward partition, it also made it difficult for any central government to take root. The average time a single central government stayed in office is less than a year. And today, Libya has two different governments competing over what remains of the country. A UN-brokered government of national accord is already in trouble before it could even be sworn into office. Today, Libya is home to all sorts of fundamentalists and terror groups, be it al-Qaeda in the south or IS in the cities of Sirte and Sabratha. The latter was the target of US air raids Feb. 19, with nearly 40 deaths in what the US army claimed to be a training camp for IS. In southern Libya, along the borders with Chad and Niger, al-Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb dominates the trafficking trade, including arms and migrants, in the absence of a strong Libyan government able to control its borders. IS, for example, wants an Islamic country where its own version of Islam is practiced and dissent is dealt with through weapons. The Islamic-backed government in Tripoli has already started reviewing all laws to bring them in line with Sharia, further enabling Islamist propaganda to dominate Libya. Preachers and religious fanatics now run mosques and offer TV and radio programs that poison the minds of young Libyans, and in the process alienate more Libyans from the forgiving Islam they have always known and practiced. The younger Gadhafi further predicted that foreign intervention in Libyan affairs will make it difficult for Libyans to reconcile among themselves. Libya now is dominated by regional and international powers, particularly Qatar, Egypt, Turkey and, of course, the permanent UN Security Council members that dictate what should and should not happen in the country through resolutions that are hardly enforced. Much of the fighting that has erupted in Libya since the uprising in February 2011 has been proxy wars between other countries fought by Libyans on Libyan soil. Gadhafi also warned his countrymen that the West will not accept any form of Islamic emirates on Libyan shores very close to the southern European borders. Today, the West particularly France is preparing a new intervention in Libya to dislodge IS from Sirte and other cities. Many Libyans and much of the world now acknowledge that Gadhafis speech accurately predicted the current situation on the ground. February 28, 2016 While the Obama administration focuses its attention on the Islamic State (IS) and al-Qaeda, it is ignoring an equally deadly and unchecked terrorist force in the Middle East: the Shiite militias of Iraq. Groups such as Asaib Ahl al-Haq, Kata'ib Hezbollah and the Badr Organization are the main three of the nearly 40 Shiite militias working under Iraqs Popular Mobilization Units, an umbrella organization created, funded and supported by Iran in mid-2014, ostensibly to take on IS. However, as the Saudis and their allies have long known, these militias are in fact a growing terrorist force that has been causing havoc and bloodshed for more than a decade in the name of a sectarian Shiite revolution. To prepare for the possibility of having to take on these militias in the near future, a massive military training exercise code-named Northern Thunder is getting underway next week in the north of the kingdom. Under the umbrella of the newly announced Saudi-led Islamic anti-terror coalition, joint land, air and naval exercises will take place on the Saudi border adjacent to Iraq. The Saudi National Guard has been conducting exercises and deploying in and out of the theater of operation for the last year, giving it the ability to have around 75,000 troops on the ground at any one time around the Hafar Al Batin military city. The coalitions first joint exercises will include special forces, mechanized and infantry battalions, as well as air and naval forces from 20 countries, including Pakistan, Egypt, Malaysia, Sudan, Jordan, Morocco, Tunisia, Senegal, Mauritania, Chad and all the Arab Gulf states. Overall, between 150,000 to 200,000 troops are taking part in Northern Thunder. The coalition views these exercises as necessary because Western neglect and a policy of appeasement toward Iran have allowed Tehran to build up these Shiite militia forces such that they have swollen into a disorganized but determined force of over 100,000 men with a substantial arsenal. Many of them have been directly implicated in political violence, torture, murder and terror. A closer look at Asaib Ahl al-Haq, Kata'ib Hezbollah and the Badr Organization, which are now the primary focus Saudis Islamic coalition, gives a clear picture of their violent tactics and direct involvement in destabilizing Iraq and Syria. Active since the Shiite uprising in Iraq in 2004, Asaib Ahl al-Haq has claimed responsibility for over 6,000 attacks since 2004. Their victims have included US servicemen, international ambassadors and citizens, as well as Iraqi civilians. In early 2007, they infiltrated the US Armys offices in Karbala and killed five soldiers. They are also very active in the Syrian war on the side of President Bashar al-Assad. Kataib Hezbollah, which is also fighting for Assad in Syria, is supported by the umbrella organization in Lebanon and is listed as a terrorist organization by the US State Department. The group fought against US and coalition forces during the Iraq war. It is responsible for numerous improvised explosive device bombings, mortar, rocket and rocket propelled grenade attacks, as well as sniper operations that have targeted US and Iraqi government forces. It is also known to have killed UN workers. Set up in Iran in 1982 as the military wing of the Supreme Council for Islamic Revolution in Iraq (SCIRI), the Badr Organization has been carrying out murder and torture via its death squads for decades. Much of their violence, which was conducted through the Iraqi Interior Ministry under SCIRIs control when Nouri al-Maliki was Iraq's prime minister, has now been put under the umbrella of the Popular Mobilization Units. Its forces possess light infantry, armor, artillery, anti-aircraft and commando units, are numbered in the thousands and have been frequently accused of carrying out mass sectarian killings against Sunnis. Just last month, the newly arrived Saudi ambassador to Iraq drew the ire of Iraqi Shiite lawmakers when he said that the presence of Iran-backed Shiite militias in the fight against IS was exacerbating sectarian tensions in the Sunni provinces of Iraq. Indeed, around 40 people were killed in early January and nine Sunni mosques were firebombed in eastern Iraq in retaliation for attacks that killed 23 Shiite militia fighters. But from the perspective of the Saudi-led Islamic coalition, this is all due to the presence of the Shiite militias that have been exacting torture and murder on Sunnis and foreigners in Iraq and beyond for decades. The Obama administration's approach to the Middle East is now quite literally exacerbating the problems in the region. By appeasing Iran, allowing Assad to stay in power and treating IS and al-Qaeda as the only terrorist groups worthy of concern, it has fostered a massive movement that presents a major threat to multiple nations. This is one of the reasons the Islamic coalition was created and why Operation Northern Thunder is well on its way. Saudi Arabia and its allies know what must be done because they live it every day the Shiite militias must be addressed. Nothing less than the principle of national sovereignty, peace and order in the Middle East, and the stability of one of the most important geopolitical regions in the world, are at stake. February 26, 2016 GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip If someone decides to become a politician in Palestine, especially in the Gaza Strip, they cannot run for the parliamentary elections nor can they run for the presidential elections. Elections have been stalled for the past 10 years. Politicians in Gaza can only propose initiatives and suggestions to resolve the political and social crises. One way or another, political action in Gaza has turned into an activity related to everyday problems, such as launching initiatives to solve issues like the electricity crisis, the Rafah border crossing and the payment of the salaries of government employees. These initiatives are sometimes even aimed at pushing forward the reconciliation process between Fatah and Hamas. Political parties in the Gaza Strip have launched a number of initiatives since December 2013. There are about 14 initiatives by Palestinian political parties and figures, including four proposed by the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine (PFLP), two by the Palestinian Islamic Jihad movement, one by the Palestinian People's Party, two by all the Palestinian factions except for Hamas and Fatah, two by independents and three others by other Palestinian figures. Hamas leader Ahmed Youssef told Al-Monitor, There are too many initiatives provided by the factions as there is no unified national vision and there is no consensus on the political level. This is why each faction claims they have the solution to save [Gaza], but at the end of the day, they are merely initiatives to strengthen their political presence. Youssef stressed that these initiatives are focused on the internal situation, which consumes the political power that is supposed to focus on supporting the resistance. He said, Instead of thinking about the coming battles and how to confront the occupation, we get caught up in the tense internal situation and division. He explained that these initiatives are to resolve the obstacles that add to the peoples suffering such as opening the crossings and solving the electricity crisis. The crises weaken our steadfastness. The image of the Palestinian cause has been distorted both at home and abroad, and it now lacks its Islamic and Arab depth, he said. Meanwhile, speaking on behalf of the PFLP which suggested four initiatives within two years, three of which aimed to resolve the reconciliation crisis Kayed al-Ghoul, a member of its political bureau, told Al-Monitor, It is difficult to separate initiatives from political action, as initiatives reflect a political content. He said that these initiatives are in line with the PFLPs program in the struggle for liberation. He stressed that initiatives are linked to politics; initiatives are often mentioned within a political activity in order to clarify it or garner public support. Some initiatives are purely political, such as those aiming at reconciliation. It is difficult to isolate social crises from the political issue, since the occupation is the root of all problems. It is no coincidence that all attempts at reconciliation and reconstruction are stalled, Ghoul added. In addition to local initiatives by Palestinian factions, Arab and international initiatives also abound, such as the Swiss initiative in March 2015 to resolve the government employees crisis in Gaza, as well as the Qatari initiative in February 2016 that called for a dialogue between Hamas and Fatah in Doha. Politicians and figures who seek to stand out in the local and international political scene often suggest initiatives to solve the Palestinian political crises, but these initiatives always fail. In two years, 14 initiatives have been proposed, and none was implemented or solved any of the Palestinian crises. Atef Abu Saif, chief editor of Siasat magazine, believes that the numerous initiatives reflect the political system's inability to find an internal solution. He told Al-Monitor, Foreign initiatives and mediation to resolve the crisis in Palestine indicate that the [internal] system is unable to fulfill its duties. Thus politicians give way to foreign and local initiatives to compensate for its inability to carry out its natural duties, such as the tasks of the Palestinian Legislative Council and the functions of the government. Abu Saif said that the Palestinian political situation is in a state of regression and decline. Citizens worry about how cement is going to enter Gaza as Israel has prevented the importation of cement since October 2013 how they will receive treatment and when the crossings will be opened, which reflects a shift in the agenda of political action in order to answer to the social needs of citizens. This shows a regression of political priorities, which would focus on the demands for an airport and a seaport after the last war in 2014, he said. He added, Political action is currently focusing on the peoples issues. Meanwhile, a unified national [stance] has yet to be taken [to support] the ongoing intifada, which is described as a series of individual attacks. This situation reflects the deteriorating Palestinian political system." Islamic Jihad has proposed two initiatives: the first is related to the reconciliation in December 2014, and the second concerns the crossings in March 2015. Islamic Jihad leader Khaled al-Batsh told Al-Monitor, The movement is creating initiatives, mostly in collaboration with national and Islamic forces, due to the ongoing crisis between Fatah and Hamas, which had social and economic repercussions on the Gaza Strip. Batsh believes that based on its balanced relations with all parties, Islamic Jihad is required to be a mediator to reconcile the different points of view, noting, It is true that the ministers and the Palestinian parliament are required to find a solution to the internal crisis. It is not our job to do so, but we consider this an additional duty of ours. However, this does not mean it affects our project toward the resistance. Some believe that the Palestinian political system is facing a true dilemma that is difficult to solve. Ismail Abu Shumays, an independent lecturer in Palestinian politics, told Al-Monitor, There are two programs [prevailing in the Palestinian political scene] that are completely different: one is about the resistance and the other is about a peaceful solution, and both programs have reached the point of inertia. Abu Shumays said that the Palestinian political system has reduced its political activity to mere reactions instead of action on the ground, so the division will persist and life will continue to be difficult. He added, And we can only be pessimistic about the near future. These political initiatives, which have engulfed the Palestinian political action, did not solve the accumulated crises in the Gaza Strip crisis reconciliation is stalled, electricity is cut for more than 12 hours a day and the Rafah crossing remains closed and is only opened at intervals. All of this makes the initiatives seem like a mere public show. February 29, 2016 A Russian and US-sponsored cease-fire went into effect on the night of Feb. 27. The lull in fighting, which was violated by both sides several times during the weekend according to the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights, will be used by the regime to consolidate new areas falling under its control, experts say. The temporary truce will be nonetheless difficult to maintain given the ingraining of extremist groups, such as Jabhat al-Nusra, in rebel areas and the labeling by both Russia and the Syrian regime of certain regions as radical, such as Madaya or some Aleppo areas that are often home to moderate or Islamic militants. Paul Salem, vice president for policy and research at the Middle East Institute, told Al-Monitor he believes the cease-fire is only a temporary truce and in no way an opening for a long-term peaceful solution an opinion also shared by Syria expert Fabrice Balanche from the Washington Institute for Near East Policy. In a note published Feb. 23, Balanche estimated that the temporary truce would allow the army to create defensive lines before launching new attacks and consolidating gained territory while preventing counteroffensives. In the past few months, the Syrian army has advanced in various areas around Syria. A paper published Feb. 5 by the Institute for the Study of War said, Russian airpower and Iranian manpower have brought President [Bashar al-] Assad within 5 miles of completing the encirclement of Aleppo city, the largest urban center in Syria and an opposition stronghold since 2012. The paper also says, The current [regime] campaign has already surpassed the high-water mark set by the regimes previous failed attempt to besiege Aleppo city in early 2015. Syria expert Sinan Hatahet, from Omran Dirasat, a think tank based in Istanbul, told Al-Monitor he believes the main areas to pose a threat to the cease-fire include Idlib, some of the Damascus suburbs such as western Ghouta and specifically Daraya, the Aleppo region, and Jabal al-Akrad, a region located on the border of Assad's Alawite bastion. Speaking to Al-Monitor, a lieutenant from the Free Syrian Army (FSA) in Idlib, who chose to remain anonymous, said that control over the region was divided between various groups including Jabhat al-Nusra. The positions of the FSA, Ahrar al-Sham and Jabhat al-Nusra are close together, and given that Jabhat al-Nusra does not fall under the cease-fire agreement, other groups might be targeted. These groups include FSA organizations such as Firqa Shamaliya [Northern Brigade], Suqour al-Jabal, Firqa 13 [13th Brigade] which are all affiliated with the MOM [military operations center] Kataeb 40, Liwaa al-Haqq and Harakat al-Bayan, he said. The MOM is a Western-, Turkish- and Arab-backed military center located in Turkey. Other groups deployed in the region include Faylak Sham, Ahrar al-Sham and Jund al-Aqsa, the lieutenant added. Power is shared between the various groups, he said. Wary of being targeted by the Russian air force, Jabhat al-Nusra is said to be redeploying, leaving its positions and moving away from civilian locations, namely in the city of Sarmada, in the Idlib region. Syrian expert Hatahet said certain areas in Damascus will probably witness a cease-fire breach, namely the area of Daraya. The regime argues that Jabhat al-Nusra and the Islamic State [IS] are present in Daraya, which is actually exclusively home to groups such as Shuhada al-Islam and Ajnad al-Sham the first group being affiliated [with] the MOC, Hatahet added. The military operation center (MOC), which is based in Jordan and supports Syrian rebel groups, is believed to be staffed by Arab and Western countries. Hatahets testimonial was confirmed in an article by Borzou Daragahi titled, ISIS is nowhere near this city but the Syrian regime keeps bombing it anyway. According to Hatahet, Daraya has strategic importance to the regime because of its proximity to the Mazeh airport in Damascus. The cease-fire situation will probably be tricky in the Aleppo region also. The Russians consider northern Aleppo to be under Jabhat al-Nusras domination while it is controlled by the 13th and 16th Brigades and the Sultan Murad battalion, which are all affiliated with the FSA alongside Harakat Nour al-Din al-Zenki and Jaish al-Mujahideen. The radical group is actually present on the western front of Aleppo, the FSA lieutenant pointed out, adding that less than 1,000 Jabhat al-Nusra militants are deployed in Aleppo. The region of Jabal al-Akrad will also probably be targeted in spite of the cease-fire, said Hatahet. Located in north Latakia, it is a key area for the regime when it comes to the protection of the Alawite rump state. It is a major frontline in spite of the absence of Jabhat al-Nusra there, the main groups being Firqa Sahiliya Aloula as well as Firqa Sahiliya Thaniya [First and Second Coastal Brigades] and the 10th Brigade, Hatahet said. There is more hope for the Syrian southern regions. Abu Mohamad, a fighter from Ahrar al-Sham, told Al-Monitor the region is for the most part under FSA domination, with the exception of small pockets of Jabhat al-Nusra fighters located in western Daraa as well as the rural Quneitra area. There is also a small number of IS militants in Horsh Hamad as well as western rural Quneitra, but mostly in the form of dormant cells, the fighter said. The Assad regime has also relied on local reconciliation efforts in certain areas of southern Syria to smooth out tensions, according to the Syrian Observer. The newswire reported Feb. 22 that a local reconciliation initiative was launched in Daraa, involving 1,000 locals and senior figures. The initiative calls on armed groups to lay down their weapons in order to settle their legal status and return to normal life, the report added. Maintaining the cease-fire is essential in paving the way for a more permanent cessation of hostilities in Syria, which will need to be dovetailed by a real political process. US Secretary of State John Kerry warned Feb. 24 that a transition process was necessary and that, in its absence, It may be too late to keep it [Syria] as a whole Syria. The winner-takes-all approach of regional players backing either the Assad regime or rebels might just prove Kerry right with a de facto partition of the country. February 29, 2016 DAMASCUS, Syria While most Syrian areas have been under a cease-fire since Feb. 27, fighting has been raging between the Islamic State (IS) militants and the Syrian regime forces following the IS attack on the villages to the north of Hamas eastern countryside that same day. The official Syrian news agency, SANA, reported on that day the death of six people in a car bomb by IS at the entrance of al-Salamiyah. In another report, SANA reported, The Syrian army managed to circumvent IS' attacks on many of the areas under the armys control. IS attack on the eastern countryside of Hama comes as a reaction to the Syrian forces progress on the Salamiyah-Athriya axis all the way to the administrative border of Hama and Raqqa. The Syrian army launched its operations from the area of al-Salamiyah in the Hama countryside 30 kilometers (19 miles) east of Hama on Feb. 10, according to Jamal Hazouri, a war correspondent accompanying the Syrian army forces who talked to Al-Monitor via Skype. The Syrian army has managed to secure the desert highway from al-Salamiyah area all the way to the village of Athriya, linking al-Salamiyah-Raqqa road to al-Salamiyah-Khanasir-Aleppo road. It is the only land route under the control of the Syrian army, linking the southern regions under its control to the northern areas, he said. Hazouri added, The Syrian army started advancing from the town of Athriya toward the southeastern countryside of Raqqa to the village of Zakia, located on the administrative border of Raqqa. The town is seen as a strategic location to the north of the road from Athriya leading to the cities of Tabqa and Raqqa, where IS is located on the other side [of the road]. This is a strategic location linking the provinces of Hama, Raqqa, Deir ez-Zor, Aleppo and Homs. Hazouri confirmed that the Syrian regimes forces were able to control al-Masbah hill in addition to three other hills to the side of Zakia. He said, however, that the regime forces have been targeted by dozens of car bombs and missiles on the Raqqa-Athriya axis in an attempt on the part of IS to stop their progress. In terms of the forces participating in the battle alongside the Syrian army, he noted that hundreds of young people from the tribes of Raqqa and Deir ez-Zor are taking part in the battle, fighting under the banner of the national defense forces. These forces consist of a militia formed by the regime to include young volunteers, be they Syrians or foreigners. They have been fighting alongside the army since the beginning of 2013. Hazouri believes that revenge played a major role in the raging battle, as Syrian soldiers and the tribes young men fighting alongside the regime army are using this battle to avenge many of their comrades and friends who were killed at the hands of IS at Tabqa military airport on Aug. 28, 2014, following IS taking control over the airport, and to extract retribution for massacres IS has committed against Syrians. On the importance of the regimes military campaign, retired Syrian Brig. Gen. Aktham Abu Hamdan told Al-Monitor that the Syrian regime forces advance toward the town of Zakia threatens the existence of IS in the southern countryside of the province. Hamdan told Al-Monitor in Damascus, The Syrian armys control over the town of Zakia and its surrounding hills will allow its troops to have within their range of sight large areas of the Raqqa countryside." He explained that this would mean that "the regime forces would be able to implement their maneuver warfare and would turn machinery and vehicles into easy targets. Given that the battle is now waged in open spaces, any possible direct clashes between the Syrian army and IS fighters in the near future is virtually impossible. This is why the Syrian army is primarily relying at this stage on remote and medium-range heavy weapons. Hamdan believes that Feb. 4 statements by the military adviser in the Saudi Ministry of Defense office regarding a military intervention to fight against IS contributed to the Syrian political leadership's decision to launch the battle near Raqqa to prevent any Saudi ground military intervention. He said the Syrian regime, backed by Russia, seems to be in a race against time with the United States and its Kurdish allies to launch the battle for Raqqa. The Syrian regime does not want the Kurds to control Raqqa despite their military alliances, since it fears the Kurds will exploit their control over the area extended from Ain al-Arab region [Kobani] eastward to Afrin in the west, and the establishment of a self-rule region in the future, Hamdan said. On whether he expects the Syrian regime to advance toward Raqqa in the near future, Hamdan said he does not think the battle will develop beyond this point, and the two parties will remain in a state of advance and retreat in a narrow space between the countryside of Hama and the countryside of Raqqa, noting that IS will not allow the Syrian army to easily advance in the regions under its control. IS did not take the Syrian armys breach lying down. The organizations forces attacked Khanasir town Feb. 23 and tightened their grip on it, thus blocking the only road to northern Syria that is under the regimes control and that passes through Athriya-al-Salamiyah front, the main starting point for the regime toward Raqqas countryside. A leader from the national defense forces participating in the battle told Al-Monitor over Skype on condition of anonymity, On Feb. 22, we advanced toward Zakia village and controlled several spots. We also advanced toward Marina Mountains. We are closer to opening the road to Tabqa city. But IS attack on Khanasir distracted the fighters and increased pressure on our forces, especially since its attack coincided with a violent counterattack on the Zakia-Athriya front. Regarding the next steps, the same leader in Athriya said, Our operations will continue along the Athriya-Raqqa axis, and our forces will secure the road from Athriya to Khanasir. The Russian air force will protect the two forces [on the Athriya-Khanasir and Athriya-Raqqa axes] against any attacks that might risk us losing the regions we retook. The Syrian regime managed to regain control over the town of Khanasir on Feb. 25. Abdel Rahman Daoud, a political analyst close to the Syrian regime, told Al-Monitor, The Syrian army will stand its ground in the Raqqa battle because regaining the province is an important step to eliminate the danger of division, and because the Russian leadership wants to block the way to any US attempt to control IS main stronghold amid the public field race between Russia and the United States. The Raqqa battle is still relatively far away if we look at it from the perspective of distances that the Syrian army would have to cross. But from an ambitious perspective, it has become imminent. IS has blocked the road the Syrian regime would need to cross to reach the north of the country. This might make the regimes ambitions harder to fulfill. February 24, 2016 Sidar was only eight years old when Islamic State militants raided her village in Iraq two years ago, killing her siblings and father in front of her before abducting her. She was first bought by a 60-year-old IS fighter, who raped her for weeks before putting her up for sale. The girls ordeal continued for 14 months, as she was sold and resold and raped countless times. She eventually managed to escape and reach a refugee camp in Northern Iraq. She was alone. Then one day a psychologist visited the camp and took her back with him to Germany, where she is still undergoing psychological treatment. Sidar is among 1,100 rape victims who Jan Ilhan Kizilhan has identified in Iraqi refugee camps and taken to Germany for treatment. Al-Monitor caught up with him last week on the sidelines of an international event in Geneva, where he received an award for his work. Kizilhan a Turkish Kurd who immigrated to Germany as a child is heading a treatment program for IS rape victims, created last year by the parliament of Germanys state of Baden-Wurttemberg. He spoke about his work with the victims, though he often refused to share details about their identities. From February 2015 until January 2016, I toured camps in Iraq for two weeks each month. The parliamentary decision required that the women to be brought to Germany be victims who had been abducted by IS, fallen physically or psychologically ill and agreed to treatment in Germany, Kizilhan told Al-Monitor. I interviewed 1,403 women in the camps to determine those who met the conditions. I conducted psychological tests and penned reports. The reports were then examined by an official commission comprised of myself and two other members. Eventually we took to Germany 1,100 women who met the conditions. Kizilhan stressed IS uses rape as a weapon of war, targeting women from non-Muslim minorities or communities it does not consider Muslims, including Yazidi, Christian, Shiite and Faili Kurdish women. Rape is not a mere sexual issue. In patriarchal communities in particular, the woman is a concept of honor. So rape is a means of crushing the honor and dignity of the community. Many men, for instance, are known to have committed suicide after their wives were raped in wartime. In Bosnia, too, incidents of rape were rife, he said. In the IS war, however, rape has an additional meaning. [IS] men believe that, through rape, they take possession of those communities. Now you are one of us, one of our religion is what they say to a Yazidi or a Christian woman. Thats why some victims recount stories of how the wives of IS militants helped their husbands in the rapes. The ages of the victims Kizilhan interviewed ranged from 8 to 64. Of the women he took to Germany, more than 70 were younger than 18. Asked about their ordeal, Kizilhan said, Many of them had their families killed. They are alone. After being abducted, they were sold and resold and raped hundreds of times. Some were held in groups of 300-400 women in one place. People even came from other countries Saudi Arabia and Turkey, for instance to buy these girls, inspecting their teeth and hair. They paid prices ranging from $10,000 to $100,000. Some were given to IS militants as a war bounty. Some were let go by IS and others escaped. Kizilhan described the victims as heavy trauma patients haunted by the memory of their sexual enslavement. They went through something very personal. The intensity in the brain is such that they cant think of anything else. They keep recalling the rapes, day and night, he said. They cant sleep and suffer from panic attacks. They also suffer a lot of physical pain, especially headaches and pain in the abdomen. All have developed sexual problems. Many want to be operated on to have their wombs removed. And most importantly, they are insecure. They dont trust people. Kizilhans patients are to be treated for two years, after which they can either go home or take up permanent residence in Germany. What is the treatment trying to achieve? Kizilhan said he was trying to imbue in the victims that they should not expect to emerge as new persons, but accept what they have been through to allow themselves to embark on a new life. And he is optimistic. Those women are very strong. They want a life despite all they have been through, he said. When I first met Sidar and asked her if she would like to come to Germany, she said, Yes, Ill come and become a doctor like you. Their resilience and will to live are giving me strength. I do believe they will manage to build new lives. And what about those left behind, deprived of treatment? Kizilhan explained the parliamentary decision was originally limited to 1,000 victims but the contingent was later increased to cover all the 1,100 candidates he had identified. The issue of refugees has two aspects. One group of people flee their countries to stay alive. You could open your borders to them, and political solutions are what needs to be discussed here, Kizilhan said. Then, there are people who are severely ill physically and psychologically. They should be identified and offered treatment. What Ive been trying to do is to help the second group. [As doctors] weve taken an oath to help and look after people regardless of their sects and races. This oath, I believe, should apply to all professions. February 26, 2016 The cost of the political and economic crisis that erupted between Russia and Turkey after the shooting down of a Russian plane in November is multiplying by the day. First, the effects of the economic sanctions Russia has been applying on Turkey as of Jan. 1 were reflected by Turkish export figures in January. According to figures released by the Exporters Assembly of Turkey, January exports were 14.4% lower this year than in the same month in 2014. Russia stopped imports of Turkish fresh fruits and vegetables and terminated the work of Turkish tour operators by canceling all tours to Turkey. Prime Minister Ahmet Davutoglu, when announcing the Emergency Support Action for Tourism to prevent even worse losses in that sector, invited Russian tourists to come to Turkey. The Union of Chambers of Agriculture of Turkey said there has been a sharp decline in exports of fresh produce as a result of the Russian sanctions and asked the Turkish government to support producers and exporters. It warned, There has been a 38.4% decrease in our fresh produce exports following the crisis with Russia. Exports that had totaled $215.2 million in January 2015 are down to $132.7 million in January 2016. But another development not listed among Russian sanctions has inflicted even heavier damage on the Turkish economy. When Russia did not renew the Turkey-Russia Road Transport Accord that expired Feb. 1, all commercial road transport between the two countries and via Russia to Central Asia and other regions halted entirely. Thousands of Turkish 18-wheeler semis are now idle. According to the International Road Transport Union, Turkey retaliated by halting the movement of Russian trucks to Turkey. But the losses accruing to Turkey, which has the largest 18-wheeler fleet in Europe, will be far higher than those of Russia. Russia had already made issuance of temporary passage documents to Turkish roads more difficult after relations with Turkey began to sour flowing Russias entry to the Syrian war. The crisis that erupted after the plane incident made life much more difficult for Turkeys producers and transporters. The option of using ro-ro ferries via Azerbaijan has not been enough to solve the problem. Until Feb. 1, the road accord between Turkey and Russia was being automatically extended every year; the two countries long cooperated on finding ways to avoid bottlenecks in exports and transport. Turkey and Russia had been annually issuing 8,000 documents for temporary passage, 1,500 for transit passage and 5,000 for transport to third countries. When Russia wanted to reduce this year's numbers to 2,000 temporary, 2,000 transit and 500 third-country passage documents, the accord could not be renewed. Moreover, as of Jan. 1, when Russia reimposed visa requirements for Turkish nationals, the problem has become worse as it has been difficult to find drivers who have Russia visas. Cetin Nuhoglu, the chairman of the board of the International Transporters Association, which covers all road transport companies in Turkey, said there was a 4.5% reduction in the hauling of exports last year. In 2015, of 1.5 million truck trips to foreign markets from our country, one-fifth were done with trucks from other countries. The worst losses in our export trips were seen in trips to the Commonwealth of Independent States and the Central Asian market, while our trips to Russia and Iraq have come to a standstill, he said. Nuhoglu's comments dealt with a period before the accord with Russia expired. As such, worse outcomes are expected in 2016. Turkey, which has been feeling the effects of political, military and diplomatic tensions on its economy, experienced a similar situation with Egypt. Turkey has lost access for its exports to the Gulf, other parts of the Middle East and North Africa because of the clashes in Iraq and Syria. In 2012, Turkey signed an accord with the Egyptian Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated Mohammed Morsi regime that granted Turkey a privileged status. With that accord, Turkish exports carried by Turkish trucks were being carried on ro-ro ferries between the Turkish port of Iskenderun to Egyptian ports and onward to North Africa and the Middle East, including the Gulf countries. Attractive discounts, facilities and privileges were granted to Turkish vehicles in Egyptian ports and when crossing the Suez Canal. When a military coup deposed the Morsi regime, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan declared that he did not recognize the coup leader, Gen. Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. In response, the Sisi regime unilaterally refused to extend the accord that ended in April of last year. Turkey was the loser. Turkey now has to decide whether it will use trucks from Belarus, Moldova and Georgia or will have Turkish companies haul its exports and then reload them onto trucks from third countries that have no problems with Russia. In that case, the winners, of course, would be the trucks and companies from other countries. February 29, 2016 The first group of Syrian refugees in Turkey will be able to seek citizenship and the right to vote and run for office beginning in April. Five years ago, the first 252 refugees arrived. Turkey initially agreed to accept a maximum of 100,000, and many people at that time thought there would never be that many refugees. But the flow gained momentum and by the end of 2012, 150,000 Syrians had crossed into Turkey. As time passed, millions of Syrians sought refuge in Turkey as well as Jordan and Lebanon. On Feb. 5, President Recep Tayyip Erdogan announced the latest numbers: "From Syria alone we received 2.7 million, and from Iraq, 170,000 refugees, he said. Those first 252 arrivals will complete the five years of continuous residency required to seek Turkish citizenship on April 29. Every day thereafter, that number will grow. By 2019, when three elections are scheduled, the refugees who arrived in 2014 will be eligible. A Syrian human rights organization estimated there were 1.9 million Syrian refugees in Turkey at that time. After they apply, they must be approved by the Council of Ministers, according to Hikmet Sami Turk, the former minister of justice and a professor of constitutional law. "Once they are granted citizenship, then they also get the right to elect and be elected," he said. "Not only Syrians, but we have those who have come from Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan and Libya. The same applies to them. The three contests set for 2019 are local elections in March, presidential elections in August and general elections in November. If the refugees who are granted citizenship are well organized, there could be Syrian and Iraqi mayors, parliamentarians and city council members. They will have the opportunity to wield political power particularly in provinces where they are concentrated, such as Kilis, Sanliurfa, Istanbul, Gaziantep and Osmaniye. Will the Council of Ministers respond positively to those applying for citizenship? With the pending elections, the voting potential of refugees is of keen interest to political parties. No doubt the ruling party which always reminds refugees that it takes care of them and portrays opposition parties as anti-refugee will not hesitate to make sure that citizenship applications are approved. There is speculation that the true beneficiary of the potential new voters, who are predominantly Sunnis, will be the ruling Justice and Development Party, because the main opposition Republican Peoples Party (CHP) is identified mainly as an Alevi party. Kemal Kilicdaroglu, the current CHP chairman, is an Alevi. But there are some who claim that the refugees will not be entitled to citizenship. Before the 2014 local elections there were allegations that arrangements were made to allow the Syrians to vote for the ruling party, and the opposition CHP deputy Gursel Tekin openly claimed that the refugees were secretly given citizenship rights. At that time the Association for Solidarity with Refugees had warned that such allegations were baseless and were making refugees a target of hostility. In a December 2013 statement, the association had even said that refugees cannot be citizens. It appears that there is confusion between the status of refugees and that of immigrants. The Ankara Strategy Institute issued a statement that read, Being a refugee is a status that requires the approval of the host country of the request for refuge. An immigrant is a person who has left his country and whose status has not yet been decided, and is therefore undetermined. Refugees also have the ability to get married and adopt children, and they can request citizenship by proving they have family members in Turkey. In some cities with a large refugee presence there is a high number of marriages between refugee women and Turkish men. In summary, the path to the ultimate goal of citizenship appears to be open to those refugees who have been given residence and work permits, who have been issued biometric identification documents and who have had children some 150,000 of them in Turkey. That there will be three elections in 2019 surely guarantees support for them from political parties now. A group of about 40 people carried an empty coffin and sang songs outside the Etowah County Detention Center today in memory of someone most of them had never met. The group came to commemorate the life of Teka Gulema, an Ethiopian national who had been detained at the center last year but was released from custody in November 2015 by the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency. Gulema had been incarcerated for assault and other charges in Virginia, according to a federal spokesman. But he was paralyzed following a bacterial infection, said Jessica Vosburgh with Adalante Alabama Workers Center, one of the groups represented at the demonstration. Gulema died in January in a Gadsden hospital. In commemorating Gulema's life, the group sought to focus attention on ICE immigrant detainees kept at the jail. It was just the latest in a series of protests groups have staged outside the jail over the past two years, seeking to focus attention on the detainees there and at other centers around the country. "These people can be quite invisible in the current system," Vosburgh said, saying she had only managed to meet Gulema once in the hospital. But Tommy Morgan, a Birmingham minister, asked the group to celebrate Gulema's life during an interfaith service. "Hold dear in your heart one who could have been you, or you, or you, or even me," he said. Father Ed Hunt, with the Episcopal Diocese of Alabama, reminded those listening of the parable of the Good Samaritan, asking them to care for others, and to remember the detainees inside the jail. "We are all family," he said. "We are all neighbors. We have the same DNA, the same spark of life, the same common humanity." The group laid flowers on the empty coffin, marched through the jail parking lot, and burned sage as a spiritual tribute. As they marched and sang, they were watched by deputies on foot and on horseback, as Sheriff Todd Entrekin stood by. As the group marched, detainees inside the jail could be heard banging on the windows, a common sound at these demonstrations. The protesters waved back. Entrekin said the jail had extra staffing today as a precaution, though all of the recent protests and the reactions inside the jail have been peaceful, he said. Morgan said he has been involved in immigration issues since 2011, with the controversy over Alabama House Bill 56. "I just ask what kind of country we're becoming, when we're not allowing people dignity and peace or access to their families," he said. "Who are we to take that away?" A California construction company has been awarded a contract to complete the second phase of the I-59/20 bridge replacement project in downtown Birmingham. Granite Construction, of Watsonville, Calif., signed a contract totaling $208.6 million and issued a notice to proceed with work on the highway, the Alabama Department of Transportation announced last week. ALDOT has not yet announced an official start date and estimated completion date for Phase Two work. Phase One work, which involves widening three bridges and elevating two others along I-65, is nearing completion. Phase Two of the project involves redesigning and constructing new interchange ramps at I-65. Granite Construction will be responsible for building ramps to 17th Street and 6th Avenue North and from 11th Avenue North to the Interstate system, as well as construction between Arkadelphia Road and I-65 on I-59/20. During construction, access to and from downtown will remain open. "Over the past 40 years, the I-65 junction with I-59/20 has justifiably become labeled as Malfunction Junction, and Phase Two is designed to address this problem," said DeJarvis Leonard, East Central Region Engineer. "This work is necessary and will provide significant improvements for motorists traveling along this highway. We look forward to working with the contractor to build this much needed project." According to ALDOT, Granite Construction is one of the largest diversified construction companies and construction materials producers in the country. The project has been in the works for four years. ALDOT looked at ways to replace bridges that are more than 30 years old and carry more traffic than they were designed to accommodate. ALDOT launched a website with details about the plan. Meanwhile, opponents have been vocal, with many calling for officials to "Rethink 20/59." Neighborhood groups also have fought against the plan, and a nonprofit called Move I-20/59 is advocating for a holistic analysis to determine the best solution. A federal lawsuit filed in October seeks to halt the project, asking that a judge order ALDOT and the Federal Highway Administration to examine reasonable alternatives and conduct a new environmental assessment. Move I 20/59 has said that when ALDOT first presented its plans for the project in 2012, it was a $100 million emergency repair calling for re-decking. However, local and county officials asked that the scope of the project be expanded to address other concerns and that more than quadrupled the original cost to more than $400 million, the group states. In January, federal and state highway officials filed a response to the lawsuit saying they followed all environmental laws and looked at alternatives while formulating the current plan. In its response, the Federal Highway Administration denied the allegation that the project will cause "significant negative socioeconomic impacts." An investigation is underway after a fatal officer-involved shooting in St. Clair County. The shooting happened about 5 p.m. in Ashville. Alabama Law Enforcement Agency spokesman Senior Trooper Chuck Daniel said the shooting involved an Ashville police officer. Several law enforcement agencies were on the scene in the area of Fifth Avenue throughout the night. Daniel said no additional information would be released. The State Bureau of Investigation took over the probe at the request of Ashville police. The investigation's findings will be turned over to the St. Clair District Attorney. Trump sign defaced in Hoover A sign, which overlooks Interstate 65 at the interchange with 459, reads "Trump for President" and bears his campaign slogan, "Make America Great Again!" Swastikas were painted in gold on both sides. (Kelsey Stein | kstein@al.com) A sign supporting Republican candidate Donald Trump's bid for president posted along a Birmingham area highway was vandalized. The sign, which overlooks Interstate 65 at the interchange with 459, reads "Trump for President" and bears his campaign slogan, "Make America Great Again!" Swastikas were painted in gold on both sides of the sign. Just a day before the primary election, Trump has a huge lead in Alabama, according to a Monmouth University poll released today. Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions has endorsed Trump, who campaigned in Huntsville on Sunday. A sign, which overlooks Interstate 65 at the interchange with 459, reads "Trump for President" and bears his campaign slogan, "Make America Great Again!" Swastikas were painted in gold on both sides. (Kelsey Stein | kstein@al.com) Trump's campaign ads have been targets for vandalism across the country. On Dec. 7, Trump called for a "total and complete shutdown" of all Muslims looking to enter the United States. Days later, someone painted large swastikas featuring his likeness with a mustache reminiscent of Adolf Hitler's on two Atlanta bridges. In January, swastika symbols were painted on a Trump ad posted in a Jacksonville, Fla., storefront. Later that month, someone spray-painted a black swastika on Trump's star along the Hollywood Walk of Fame, prompting a heightened police presence in the area. In December, The Washington Post reported that the Ku Klux Klan was using Trump as a conversation piece to gauge interest from prospective members. Trump repeatedly has declined to talk about his support among white supremacists. Controversy flared again over the weekend as Trump in a CNN interview refused to disavow former KKK grand wizard David Duke and other white supremacist groups who support him, despite denouncing Duke in past public appearances. Trump later attributed the issue to a bad earpiece, saying he could not hear the interviewer clearly, and tweeted out his previous statements about Duke. Republican frontrunner leads in eight of 11 states voting in Super Tuesday contests, while rivals struggle for support. Tuesday is a key moment in this United States presidential election cycle. After all, they dont attach the prefix Super to just anything in the US. In the Republican race, Donald Trump is expected to do very well. The frontrunner is ahead in eight of the 11 races and sitting second in the others. That is a good place to be, especially in states where delegates are awarded based on the proportion of the vote won by a candidate. And this is important. In the states with the highest number of delegates on offer Texas, Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee you have to win at least 20 percent of the vote to get any delegates at all. And if the polls are to be believed, Marco Rubio, John Kasich and Ben Carson are below that threshold in all four of those southern states. Ted Cruz is below in three, with only Texas, the senators home state, saving him from a potentially huge embarrassment. He spent time and money in the these states believing evangelicals and strongly Christian voters would carry him to victory. But Trumps momentum has been so strong that Cruz is desperately trying to shore up support in Texas. Anything less than a win there, and he is finished. The final voting numbers are going to tell us a few interesting things. First of all, no matter how well he does, Trump cant win the Republican nomination on Tuesday. But strong returns in all states and territories will tell us whether his support is as widespread as the polls are showing. REPORTERS NOTEBOOK: Why Chris Christie is endorsing Donald Trump We will also find out if Cruzs early support is melting away. To be realistic, if he cant do well in the states that vote on Tuesday, hes not going to do well in the industrial Midwest. Among the other candidates, Rubio will discover if he is truly cementing his position as the anti-Trump candidate. He is banking on Florida later in the month a winner-takes-all state to be his big victory. But he is behind in the polls and not sure of victory there. There is a danger he could lose every state on Tuesday, and there are only so many times you can claim victory from second place. And we will also discover if the recent attacks on Trump have had any effect. The realisation that he is now the dominant candidate and in prime position to secure the domination has forced the other candidates to do what most of them refused to do for months, attack the billionaire businessman head-on. They have gone after his business record, his business school being sued, and the fines he received for employing undocumented migrants. And on Sunday a new line of attack opened up when Trump initially refused to disavow the support of David Duke, a former head of the racist Ku Klux Klan. Trumps rivals have been backed up on social media by senior conservative figures and Republican heavyweights, alarmed at the prospect of a Trump win. But there are questions over how many people will pay attention and if the hashtag #NeverTrump will make a difference. It might all be too late. Tuesday could be super for Donald Trump. Thai capitals low ranking in a survey for expat safety says more about the entitlement of the judges than reality. Bangkoks place near the bottom of the rankings in a recent survey on expat safety might say more about the people doing the judging than the city itself. I must confess, when I saw articles with the headline Bangkok ranks near bottom of safe city list doing the rounds on social media, I did a pretty sharp double take. Thats because, in the five years that Ive lived here, the Thai capital has always struck me as the safest city Ive lived in whether compared with stints in the United States, Europe, or other parts of Asia. Its an opinion that I know is shared by many others who live in Bangkok. Ive never been worried walking down a dark alley late at night and that definitely wasnt always the case in Brooklyn. Then I read a bit more, and I understood what the issue was it was an article about safety for expats, and unravelling that phrase means opening a whole can of worms. The Mercer survey, which produced the rankings, cited political instability for Bangkoks poor performance. But political instability here, while a major problem for Thais, has rarely affected foreigners in terms of safety. Safety for expats in an Asian city in the developing world can have a very different meaning to safety for foreigners and even locals in developed countries. Western expats often move to cities in Asia or Africa with strong concerns about safety and they tend to build up cloistered existences, where small infringements can be regarded with panic. Attacks on expats tend to receive widespread coverage in international media. The big one in Thailand last year was the murder of two backpackers in the island of Koh Tao and serious question marks over how the subsequent investigation was conducted did little credit to the Thai authorities. These incidents, however, are usually relatively isolated, the uproar surrounding them a sign itself of how rare they are. Compare this with our attitudes towards attacks on migrants in wealthier countries say Germany and how they reflect how safe those places are. Compare it with the use of the word migrant in that context, as opposed to expat in the context of Bangkok. People who defend the distinctions between the two terms will usually say that expats move to a place temporarily, while migrants move with a view to immigrate permanently. But then why are Bangladeshi workers who go to the Gulf states for a few years called migrant workers, not expats? There are two things at play here one is an issue of nationality, with expats or migrants being partly determined by the status of the country they come from compared to the status of the country they have moved to. The other is an issue of class expats are wealthy, migrants are poor. And with these differences come a gulf in expectations of safety, in the feeling of entitlement to a certain level of safety. One way to look at it is that of course this is how it is, this is the way the world works. But its one thing to recognise that, and another thing to reinforce it by publishing surveys that make it seem as if places such as Bangkok are lawless and dangerous, when they do pretty well compared with a lot of other places. A few years ago, a very good friend of mine who lives in Bangkok was the victim of a brutal racial assaultwhile studying in Sydney, Australia. I honestly couldnt imagine something like that happening to her here. As growing numbers of human rights lawyers are detained, we ask if a new generation of students will fill their shoes. When Li Meng first told her father, a prosecutor and Communist party member in Guizhou province, that she wanted to study human rights law, he wasnt pleased. He could not understand at the very beginning why I chose to do human rights a thing that is very sensitive, and cannot earn money, the 24-year-old explained. But gradually, after she began her masters degree, specialising in human rights, at Renmin University in Beijing, his opposition eased. She recently returned from a six-month internship at the European Court of Human Rights in France. In many ways, her father was right to be concerned. From the thousands of students graduating from Chinas law schools each year, only a few go on to practise human rights law. Nine students are enrolled on Lis course, which is one of more than 30 human rights programmes in the country. But economic and social pressures the lack of jobs, attractive compensation and a stable career ensure that even among those who have studied human rights, many will opt for careers in commercial or civil law instead. This is not unusual for aspiring social justice workers around the world. But in China, there is another disincentive for anyone contemplating a career in human rights: the knock on the door, or invitation to tea, that could mean intimidation, detention or residential surveillance a prolonged disappearance at the hands of the authorities. Its sensitive in China, but theres nothing wrong, said Li. Its human nature. Its human rights. If I stay in the academic area, for now, I think its safe probably, she continued. But, to be honest, for the future, if I want to really be a human rights lawyer, I shall face some kinds of pressures, like arrests. The Communist party wants a chilling effect China is currently in the midst of what many describe as the most severe wave of detentions of human rights lawyers and activists since the Tiananmen Square uprising of 1989. From July 2015 to early February 2016, some 318 human rights lawyers and activists from across the country were targeted, according to Sharon Hom, the executive director of the NGO Human Rights in China. After the so-called Jasmine Revolution, a series of pro-democracy rallies in 2011, there were 54 detentions. The Communist party wants a chilling effect, and for many people it will have a chilling effect for a period of time, said Teng Biao, a veteran human rights lawyer who is now a visiting scholar at Harvard University. The case of Zhao Wei was particularly symbolic. The 24-year-old legal assistant to a high-profile rights lawyer disappeared in July and was charged with inviting subversion of state power in January an offence carrying a possible life sentence. READ MORE: Chinas web of torture and its critics A new generation of rights lawyers, imbued with the values of constitutionalism and the rule of law, poses a threat to the partys power, said Terry Halliday, a research professor at the American Bar Foundation. It is determined to strike deep fear into young activist lawyers to keep them away from this area of legal practice, he added. Being a human rights lawyer is like a flying moth darting into the fire, explained 22-year-old Fan Yujie, a law senior at the China University of Political Science and Law in Beijing, using a Chinese saying about fighting a doomed cause. In my heart, I have the passion, but I dont think Ill do it in the future. Fan and three classmates recently won an international humanitarian law student competition organised by the Red Cross, and will be representing Mainland China at the Asia-Pacific round in Hong Kong in March. But instead of being a human rights lawyer in China, Fan hopes to work for humanitarian organisations abroad, or otherwise domestically as a journalist or filmmaker. Punishing perceived dissidents After President Xi Jinping came to power in 2012, he set about spearheading campaigns to discredit and punish perceived dissidents. Among the targets have been Chinas rights defenders, as human rights lawyers and activists are often known. The government has tried to frame human rights lawyers as subversive people who have gone beyond what is regarded as allowed activity by the authorities, said Eva Pils, a specialist in Chinese law at Kings College London. An internal party communique circulated in April 2013, known as Document 9, decried the promotion of universal values as confusing and deceptive. In a country where stability maintenance is often cited as the goal of governance, the concept of human rights is labelled as an individualistic, Western import, incompatible with the Chinese emphasis on the collective good. The main way to measure whether human rights are protected or not is the reflection of the peoples living condition, said Pan Ruozhe, a law senior at Zhejiang University. Sometimes its worthwhile for us to sacrifice a little freedom in exchange for a better, stable life. READ MORE: Controlling the internet China style Many law students in China see this suspicion of human rights law as a temporary adjustment, perhaps even the product of a misunderstanding between generations. Di Yanchao, a senior at Peking University who interned with a Hong Kong human rights lawyer, explained that, for older Chinese officials, making society peaceful and stable by administrative methods comes faster and more directly compared with solving it through litigation. I think they are too panicked. Like a big father, they do many things for their kids good, said Li. But they dont realise their kids dont necessarily need that kind of love its an old way. For those who came of age before Xi Jinpings rule, however, such as 31-year-old Liu Jiajia, who worked at disability rights group Equity and Justice Initiative, rights workers fresh out of university are in for a shock. There is a huge difference between the reality and what they have learned, Liu said. Our education made sense in terms of the rule of law. But when we graduated, we saw what the government had been doing, and how the court system functions how a persons life could be destroyed. Additional reporting by Qi Xie. Palestinian refugees vow to continue protests against UN healthcare cuts as dire conditions in Ain al-Hilweh get worse. Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp, Lebanon Friday prayers had just ended inside Ain al-Hilweh, and about 200 residents congregated near one of the entrances to this Palestinian refugee camp near the southern city of Sidon. Chants protesting at recent changes introduced by UNRWA, the United Nations agency for Palestinian refugees, to its hospital system rang out from the assembled crowd. In the middle of the protest stood Saleh al-Youssef, a representative of the Palestine Liberation Front (PLF) political faction in southern Lebanon. Witness Sabra: Lives on hold These changes must be reversed. Life in the camps such as Ain al-Hilweh is already a grave humanitarian issue. Healthcare, like education, is a fundamental right, Youssef said, as the crowd nodded in agreement. In January, UNRWA started requiring Palestinian refugees to pay between five and 20 percent of their hospital bills. Previously, the refugees had secondary healthcare fully covered by the organisation. Secondary healthcare refers to treatments requiring a short period in hospital, such as childbirth, intensive care and medical imaging. The cost of healthcare in Lebanon ranks among the highest in the Middle East and North Africa region, and many Palestinians whose access to formal job markets in Lebanon is limited by state-imposed restrictions fear they will no longer be able to afford treatment. READ MORE: Refugees search for lasting peace in Lebanons Ain al-Hilweh Established in 1949 as a temporary refugee agency to assist the hundreds of thousands of Palestinians displaced by Israels 1948 establishment, UNRWA recorded a budget deficit of more than $100m last year the largest in its history. The deficit pushed the organisation to slash its educational budget and suspend $100 monthly domestic aid subsidies which had previously been offered to each family. Those changes have caused resentment among the approximately 450,000 Palestinians in Lebanon. Residents of Ain al-Hilweh, Lebanons largest Palestinian refugee camp, have been hit particularly hard. Built to accommodate 10,000 Palestinians forced into exile in 1948, mostly from the Galilee region of present-day Israel, Ain al-Hilweh is an impoverished, 1sq km compound of narrow avenues and electrical wires, surrounded by concrete breeze blocks and Lebanese Army checkpoints. Since 2011, the camps population has grown from around 70,000 to more than 90,000 owing to the arrival of mainly Syrian-Palestinians displaced by the war in Syria. The influx has boosted competition for jobs, pushing down wages and raising unemployment, and created an endemic housing crisis. Protests against the health cuts held outside UNRWA facilities in Lebanons 12 Palestinian camps have become common, and some have even blamed the cuts for the deaths of a small number of Palestinians earlier this year. People have labelled these adjustments an 'intifada against UNRWA', because the health programme is one of our core services. by Zizette Darkazally, UNRWA's public information officer for Lebanon Zizette Darkazally, UNRWAs public information officer for Lebanon, told Al Jazeera that the organisation was not responsible for those deaths. She pointed out that UNRWAs annual hospital budget in Lebanon for 2016 remained the same ($10m) as in 2015, and subsidies for tertiary healthcare actually increased. People have labelled these adjustments an intifada against UNRWA, because the health programme is one of our core services, Darkazally said. Because tertiary is very expensive and people often struggle to afford it, we raised the ceiling on this cover to 60 percent from 50 percent, and the ceiling of the intervention from $4,200 to $5,000. In order to cover the difference, we reduced secondary coverage, she said. There were no budget cuts; we just readjusted the services to cover those with very expensive-to-treat, life-threatening conditions. Despite such assurances, Youssef and others at the demonstration in Ain al-Hilweh said they were committed to keep demonstrating until the cuts were revoked. We will continue protesting in Ain al-Hilweh, but we are also discussing initiatives to hold a sit-in at the headquarters of the European Union, among other things, he said. Palestinian factions in Ain al-Hilweh, including the PLF, Fatah, Hamas and the Islamic Jihadist Movement, have all expressed support for the current demonstrations. That unity is uncommon in a camp that is home to many armed Palestinian groups, and where outbreaks of violence between rivals are frequent. The 1969 Cairo Accord prohibits the Lebanese Army from entering Palestinian refugee camps in Lebanon. Last summer, a spree of political assassinations and gun battles pitted Fatah and its supporters against fighters from the al-Qaeda-affiliated group Jund al-Sham. The clashes left many dead, and buildings throughout the camp remain pockmarked with bullets. The situation now is calm. There is coordination between all the factions to maintain the peace, said Sheikh Jamal Khattab, the head of the Islamic Jihadist Movement, who has played the role of arbitrator during previous clashes. But many in the camp remain concerned about potential future cuts by UNRWA. The health issue is an important issue. But I am also worried that at the start of the new year, [UNRWA] schools will not open, Abd Abu Saleh, who heads a committee that manages affairs inside the Ain al-Hilweh camp, told Al Jazeera. If more UNRWA services are cut, I think it is inevitable that more people will seek alternative solutions, and leave. READ MORE: Palestinians desperate to flee Lebanon refugee camp In the second half of 2015, following the UNRWA cuts to domestic assistance and the outbreak of violence in Ain al-Hilweh, many primarily younger residents of the camp joined hundreds of thousands of Syrian refugees leaving Lebanon for Europe. From a small, second-floor office in a school and social centre run by the NGO Nabaa in Ain al-Hilweh, camp resident Nidal told Al Jazeera: There is no work; there is no stability. With these cuts, how are we meant to live? The 47-year-old widow, who spoke under a pseudonym, said she paid around $100 a month for medication to treat hypertension and rheumatism. She fears that if her condition deteriorates, the cuts will render her unable to afford hospital care. Even people not directly affected by the cuts now have no security. They are scared that if they become sick, they will be turned away at the hospital doors, said Nida. Last year, one of Nidals daughters left Ain al-Hilweh with her husband for Germany. It has become common to hear of people leaving, explained Ibtisam Mosri, 39, whose cousin also travelled from Ain al-Hilweh to Europe last year. With unemployment high in the camp and UNRWA assistance across sectors being scaled down and with the threat of a return to violence never far away both Nidal and Mosri said they understood why leaving Ain al-Hilweh had become an increasingly attractive option for some. I support the demonstrations, Nidal said. This is about the rights of the Palestinian community. But members of my own family have left. What could I say to stop them? People here are suffering. Couple has appealed to people around the world for financial support due to Gazas shattered economy. Burdened by their own financial restraints and the blockaded Gaza Strips shattered economy, one Palestinian couple has launched a crowd-funding campaign to raise money for their wedding. Hoping to accrue $9,000 to cover their wedding expenses, Falastin Tanani and her fiance, Hakim Zughbor, both 27, put their story online in January and have since raised more than $5,000. Bookmarks Gaza Palestine Tanani, a computer engineering graduate from Gazas Al-Azhar University, has been unable to find work in her field of study and instead works with NGOs on short-term contracts, making it difficult to save. Zughbor, an architect by trade, has also been working on a freelance basis. The economic situation in Gaza is grim, with a 15 percent drop in GDP last year and unemployment of about 44 percent. Many Palestinians were displaced by Israels 2014 assault on the coastal enclave, and few homes have been rebuilt. The United Nations has warned that Gaza could be uninhabitable by 2020 if current trends continue. Al Jazeera spoke with Tanani and Zughbor about the the reaction to their crowd-funding initiative. INTERACTIVE: 24 Hours in Gaza Al Jazeera: How did you first meet each other? Falastin Tanani: I saw him for the first time on Nakba Day [May 15] in 2009, after the war of 2008-2009, during an event for youth. We didnt know each other that much then, but we got to know each other through the internet. We used to meet at intellectual events and voluntary work, especially after the first war. We were just friends, but then things turned into a relationship that has lasted for seven years now. Al Jazeera: Why did you decide to start a crowd-funding campaign? Tanani: After we formally got engaged and faced several challenges, Hakim and I found that were on our own in one way or another and there were a lot of wedding arrangements ahead of us. We figured out that we could not afford to cover any of the wedding expenses. So, our friends suggested that we start a crowd-funding campaign to get help. Usually, young people find support from family or friends. We dont have this, especially now that Hakim is unemployed due to the current economic situation Now that he is freelancing, he makes around $5 to $10 per assignment, designing logos for projects or companies. Our income is only enough for pocket money, so we cannot cover a $10,000 wedding. Hakim and I are both under a great deal of pressure from our families to get married as soon as possible. We are expected to have a traditional wedding ceremony with all the normal costs. So, we have a short period of time to come up with the money we need in order to get married. We thought this could be a good thing to do. And we thought people abroad would support the idea, although people here do not accept it. Al Jazeera: How did people react? Hakim Zughbor: Our main supporters are our close friends and people abroad. But our society carries many reactionary ideas, like standing against a woman posting her photo online or in the media, or especially how a couple from Gaza put their love story and emotions on the internet for the public. That was the basis for most peoples criticism; they do not accept public romantic relationships. On the other hand, a lot of people supported our campaign and were positive mostly people from abroad. We are not ashamed of what we are doing, and we wont let criticism get us down. READ MORE: Impoverished Gaza turns to crowd-funding to meet needs Tanani: Society considers it scandalous for a couple to publicise that they were in love for seven years before officially getting engaged. They also dont understand what fundraising means. A lot of people I dont know wrote on social media that we were begging for money and humiliating ourselves. Al Jazeera: What other challenges have you faced? Zughbor: One of the obstacles was figuring out how to share our campaign, as we are not media savvy and dont have good connections in this regard. Some friends helped us to reach out and make connections, and get the word out. We also had to figure out how to present a sensitive idea without clashing with society. Al Jazeera: What are your future plans? Tanani: We dont have the opportunity to travel abroad and work or do anything like that. We are living here, trying to start a new life together. I am always looking for a job here. I have talents, skills and work experience in several fields. We are planning on starting a small project to bring an income. I paint and make handmade accessories, so I can make simple items and sell them. We just want to be through with the pressure of the wedding then, we will have our whole lives to think about and figure out ways to create jobs for ourselves. Follow Walaa Ghussein on Twitter: @WalaaGh Salva Kiir and Riek Machar to reunite in S Sudan capital Juba to further implementation of national unity government. Logistical and political obstacles threaten to delay the planned return of opposition fighters to the South Sudanese capital, Juba, on March 1, sources close to the process told Al Jazeera. After more than two years of civil war, the return to Juba of troops from the Sudan Peoples Liberation Army In Opposition (SPLM-IO) is a key step in the implementation of the August 2015 agreement on the formation of a government of national unity. The government and SPLM-IO reached an agreement that the armed opposition would send 1,370 personnel to Juba in preparation for the return to Juba of SPLM-IO leader Riek Machar. But on the eve of the March 1 deadline it seems unlikely to happen to schedule. Logistical hurdles We are still waiting for some key data from the SPLM-IO and for them to assemble their forces, said a source close to the implementation process, talking on the condition of anonymity. The SPLM-IO has said it wont come to Juba until support requirements are put in place, such as food, water supply and shelter, said the source. They also have to decide who they want to come, where they are coming from, and make sure they are assembled in the right place. The 1,370 SPLM-IO personnel are coming from a variety of locations. Some are coming from Pagak [the SPLM-IO headquarters, close to the border with Ethiopia] and some from other areas of Upper Nile, said James Gatdet Dak, a spokesman for the SPLM-IO in Nairobi. Moving so many people around a country that has extremely basic transport infrastructure is a considerable challenge. It will have to be an elaborate operation, said a source close to the Intergovernmental Authority on Development (IGAD), the regional trade body that was responsible for the mediation of the August peace agreement, who asked to remain anonymous. A good chunk of the men are in Pagak, said the IGAD source. They will move to Gambella [in Ethiopia], and from there to Addis Ababa, and then on to Juba. Many of these men will have to travel by road from Pagak to Addis Ababa, a distance of more than 800km. Peace process barriers A few days delay will not derail a peace process that has already suffered numerous postponements. The government of national unity was initially due to be formed in January. It might take a while to organise the return of SPLM-IO troops to Juba, but once these fellows make up their mind, it can happen very quickly, said the source close to IGAD. But more serious than the effect of logistical issues is the potential for further political obstacles to impede the implementation of the deal. The matter of transport is relatively straightforward, said the source close to the implementation process. The logistics are less complicated than the politics. The eventual agreement on a transitional government of national unity (TGONU) in South Sudan in August was the result of more than 18 months of negotiations, and there continue to be barriers to implementation at every stage. In recent weeks, despite ongoing delays, there have been signs of progress. The government has committed to working towards the evacuation of the bulk of its troops beyond a 25km radius of Juba, one of the requirements of the August agreement, and a key demand of the SPLM-IO. We commend it, said Gatdet Dak. We are still waiting for it to be verified. It seems that some of the troops have not gone as far as 25km, and some troops are coming back to Juba at night. The withdrawal of troops is ongoing, according to the government. Its a process, said minister of information Michael Makuei Lueth. We will leave a limited force to secure Juba until the time when the SPLM-IO forces arrive. Security in Juba is paramount not only to a political agreement, but also to ensuring that there is no repeat of the fighting in the capital that sparked the conflict that has consumed South Sudan for more than two years. Once the SPLM-IO security forces have reached Juba, Riek Machar is due to follow. It will not take many days, says Gatdet Dak. He will come by plane from Pagak. READ MORE: The complex factors of famine in S Sudan Journey to Juba Machar, who was ousted from his position as vice president in July 2013 by the president, Salva Kiir, has not been to Juba since December 2013, when clashes within the presidential guard escalated into a war that took on a tribal dimension. Tens of thousands of people have since been killed, and more than two million displaced from a country that only came into existence in July 2011, when it gained independence from Sudan. In accordance with the terms of the August deal, on February 11 Kiir issued a republican decree appointing Machar to the position of first vice president. The SPLM-IO will also nominate 10 ministers to the TGONU, although these are yet to be confirmed. Dr Riek has a list of ministers, but he wants to submit them in person once he reaches Juba, said Gatdet Dak. He wants to meet Salva Kiir, and to consult with the leadership of the SPLM-IO, some of whom are in Juba. READ MORE: South Sudan portrait of a civil war refugee Assuming the TGONU can be formed, one of the first items on the agenda will be the resolution of disagreements over the administrative division of the country. In December, Kiir increased the number of states from 10 to 28, contravening the August peace agreement. The SPLM-IO has been vociferously opposed to the move, initially refusing to send its representatives back to Juba before the issue had been resolved. In late January, IGAD issued a communique urging the suspension of the implementation of the 28 states pending a review by a boundary commission including representatives from all parties to the peace agreement. This has opened the way for the return of SPLM-IO forces, and Machar, to Juba. Were not happy, but we have accepted it, says Gatdet Dak. Super Tuesday is seen as a key turning point in most presidential campaigns and narrows the field. Super Tuesday is the name given to the day when the largest number of US states are given the chance to cast votes for Republican and Democratic candidates. It is usually seen as a turning point in most presidential campaigns, and a key indicator as to who the nominees will be from each party. It narrows the field. No doubt, it will clarify the future of the five remaining Republican candidates Donald Trump, Ted Cruz, Ben Carson, John Kasich, and Marco Rubio. On March 1, a total of 12 states and one territory will hold their respective primaries or caucuses. Hillary Clinton wins South Carolina Super Tuesday and who gets left behind For both Republicans and Democrats, Super Tuesday comes down to amassing delegates. For Republicans, 595 delegates are at stake. For Democrats, there are 1,004. Considering Republican candidates need 1,237 delegates to win the partys nomination and Democrats need 2,383, Super Tuesday is one of the most important days in the US presidential election. This year there is an expanded cast of Super Tuesday states. Alabama, Arkansas, and Texas have joined Super Tuesday, and Minnesota has also scheduled its primary on the same date. In short, Super Tuesday, which covers a broad swath of the United States and politics of all persuasions is a potent realisation of both the economic staying power and organisational skills of all of the candidates. For Democrats, this will mean a real stress test for grassroots campaigns, such as the one currently being run by Bernie Sanders. Large primary events such as Super Tuesday inevitably favour well-funded candidates like his rival Hillary Clinton. Within the ranks of the Republicans, only Donald Trump, Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio remain viable candidates for Super Tuesday and beyond. Senator Cruzs home state of Texas is holding one of the primaries on March 1, and Cruz is relying on strong evangelic support. Trump, of course, is expected to dominate: he is currently polling at 37.5 percent. Rubio is considered the partys compromise candidate. Super Tuesday delegate system More delegates can be won on Super Tuesday than any other day of the election. Candidates will receive delegates based on the percentage of votes they receive. In Alabama, Republican candidates will be competing for 50 delegates. Sanders and Clinton are competing for 60. The biggest Super Tuesday trophy for candidates in both fields is Texas, which offers 155 delegates to Republicans and 252 delegates to Democrats. Donald Trump and the GOP scramble for survival In their battle to outflank each other and become the main rival to Donald Trump, Super Tuesday is a battle over fundraising for both Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio. So far, Cruz has proved to be more popular with donors. He entered this month with more than twice the amount of money than Rubio. The Texas Senator has also consistently out-fundraised Rubio in the 11 states that will stage Super Tuesday. Last month, Cruz raised more than $1.8m from Super Tuesday battlegrounds in comparison, Rubio raised around half that amount, $774,000. The aftermath It has been widely predicted the GOP Grand Old Party field will narrow after Super Tueday and either Kasich or Carson, or possibly both, will have to withdraw from the race. The remaining candidates have large primaries ahead of them, including Florida, Illinois, North Carolina and Missouri, on March 15. New York will vote on April 19 after which there is another multi-state primary on June 7 when California, Montana, New Mexico, New Jersey and the Dakotas vote. Serang, Central Java, Indonesia The sun had not yet risen on the eastern horizon, but 42-year-old Ridwan Sururi was already busy tending the horses. The father of five fed the animals while grooming them and cleaning their barns. As a horse caretaker, he has been performing these duties for a long time in his home village of Serang at the foot of Slamet volcano in Central Java. But since December 2014, he has also been running another enterprise: Kudapustaka, a small mobile library. Sururi takes the library around the village and nearby areas on one of his horses on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday every week. The idea for Kudapustaka came to him during a conversation with Nirwan Arsuka, a fellow equine lover from Jakarta. The two agreed they wanted to do something good and meaningful for the environment and community, and Arsuka suggested the mobile library on a horse. Arsuka donated 136 childrens books as a start, and Sururi took them around on his white mare, Luna. Now, with more and more people having heard of Kudapustaka thanks to social media as well as local and international media coverage, the number of books donated has reached the thousands. Sururi headed to Elementary School 5 in Serang with Luna. At 9am, after the bell rang for the first break, the children ran out of the classrooms and bustled around him to borrow or return books. According to data from UNESCO, Indonesia has succeeded in bringing adult illiteracy rates down from 15.4 million in 2004 to 7.5 million in 2010, and those rates continue to decrease. READ MORE: Mining sulphur in Indonesia There may be lessons about the rise of ISIL in unusual places. John Bell is Director of the Middle East Programme at the Toledo International Centre for Peace in Madrid. He is a former UN and Canadian diplomat, and served as Political Adviser to the Personal Representative of the UN Secretary-General for southern Lebanon and adviser to the Canadian government. As ISILs bombs explode in Baghdad, only one week after they killed 129 in Damascus and Homs in Syria, the group continues its rampage. It is under increasing pressure, but it remains effective; there may be lessons about the rise of this terrible phenomenon in unusual places. One direction is to art. If one looks at some of the paintings of Hieronymus Bosch, one cannot but be fascinated and perplexed by the fertility of his imagination. Half-men, half-beasts, peculiar sexual acts, misshapen faces, infernos, religious symbols and quasi-chaotic crowds populate his work. For some, this painter of the 15th century was moralising, attempting to show the nature of depravity or sin, and, so, drawing people away from it. He also presented a land of dreams and nightmares, the product of a rich and fecund imagination that captivates. We are either repulsed or drawn in, wanting to know more. Ugly and mad acts It is this same power of the imagination that empowers ISIL, lures its recruits, and propels their ugly and mad acts through the media. Their brutal actions and inversion of nature, like Bosch, capture our minds, gaining the crucial attention that they desperately seek. ISILs leaders know that the power of imagination can trigger a cascade of actions, including a flood of recruits. READ MORE: Who to blame for ISIL There are are many who have done excellent work in understanding the motivations of ISIL and other violent extremists. American anthropologist Scott Atran stands out, recounting in detail how ISIL members are drawn by the upside and the excitement of that world. The lure of the fight and camaraderie has drawn men since The Iliad, if not before. by He explains that dismissing the group as nihilistic reflects a dangerous avoidance of trying to comprehend and deal with its profoundly alluring mission to change and save the world. Tragically, Atran is right. ISIL offers a successful and attractive programme for some tempted by a natural rebelliousness. Young men, under certain conditions, are particularly vulnerable to fanaticism, and to ISILs supercharged mission, so much so that they are ready to destroy all around to achieve its ends. The lure of the fight and camaraderie has drawn men since The Iliad, if not before. An inflamed mind and desire for glory also gathered stockbrokers at the Tower of London in 1914 to go to fight in Flanders only to be later torn to shreds by machinegun bullets and artillery. The initial excitement did not foresee the rats and mud in the trenches, nor the rattle of machineguns that turned them into dead men or ghosts. Apocalyptic glory ISIL presents an image of partaking in apocalyptic glory, of a millennial caliphate, but, in reality, something closer to Bosch materialises. Real life with ISIL in Iraq and Syria includes the terror of being bombed from the air, or being controlled by ideological masters, a chamber of horrors from which exit is not as easy as entry. Nevertheless, some find this hell, like Boschs paintings, perversely attractive, including its haunting religious symbolism. We dont dwell much on the role of imagination in politics. We are often too busy diving into its enthusiasms to even think about it. But, as Atran states, until we recognise the passions [ISILs] message is capable of stirring up among disaffected youth around the world, we risk strengthening them and contributing to the chaos that ISIL cherishes. The pursuit of meaning is a basic human need, not an indulgence, and, if not directed positively, it can be rechannelled destructively towards terribly cruel acts by some manipulating us into deceptions. READ MORE: Dismantling ISILs propaganda machine Their skills are in creating the imaginings that entrap, and the attractive strands of meaning, whether it is the tweets of ISIL or the simplistic shouts of demagogues across the world if the message catches, were caught. It is also these very manipulators who lack the capacity to imagine the reality of their message. They present a captivating cartoonish world, but they are autistic about the consequences of their actions. Both leaders and followers have the capacity to be blinded by states of high emotion, ignorant of the realities around the corner, whether it is the devastation of Syria and Iraq, or of any war. Virtues of violence and conflict In our day and age, anyone trumpeting the virtues of violence and conflict should read John Herseys account of the aftermath of the atomic bomb on Hiroshima for a taste of the real. In the meantime, we have Bosch to dwell on, to remind us that horrors are not just paint on canvas but living dynamics, images that can come to life, and take us to heaven or hell, depending on our inclination. Unless we are aware that imagination is only a temporary glimpse into the possible, rather than a world worth fighting and dying for, we can be lost. Bosch himself also offers the way out. In many of his paintings, an owl is depicted, often small and unnoticed, sometimes on garments, or humorously sitting on the head of a nun. The owl can be understood as the creature that sees in the night when others are blind. It is a metaphor for the quiet and sober observer that we must all tap into to see through illusion and move towards a more solid and fulfilling reality. John Bell is director of the Middle East Programme at the Toledo International Centre for Peace in Madrid. He is a former UN and Canadian diplomat, and served as a political adviser to the Personal Representative of the UN Secretary-General for southern Lebanon and adviser to the Canadian government. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy. Not just the hardliners but the reformists, too, have lost in these elections except they do not know it yet. The now standard reading of the results of the February 26 elections in Iran is that they dealt a blow to hardliners as reformists make gains. This is not an entirely wrong reading of these elections, and the reformist-backed candidates will indeed make it possible for President Hassan Rouhani to continue with his post-nuclear deal rapprochement with the world at large. But the habitual reference to the hardliners versus the reformists, helpful a rule of thumb as it is, in fact conceals far more than it reveals about what has been unfolding in Iran over the past decade and more. Over the past few weeks, and in anticipation of the February 26 elections, a healthy and robust debate had been aired among Iranians in and out of their homeland: Whether to vote in this already rigged elections or not? This is a far more important issue than the convenient binary between hardliners and reformists. Since the rigged presidential election of June 2009 that gave rise to the Green Movement in Iran, this vexing question has triggered a momentous occasion in the unfolding saga of Iranian political culture as it seeks to outmanoeuvre a conniving ruling clericalism that wants to abuse any subsequent election to claim a dubious legitimacy for itself, and prove the Green Movement a foreign plot. If the official numbers from the organs of the Islamic Republic are to be trusted, those who favoured voting in these new round of elections won the day, with more than 50 percent of eligible voters, maybe up to 60 percent, having joined the nationwide election of a new Assembly of Experts and the parliament. If that is the case, then 30-40 percent of Iranians refused to accept that a wily fox such as Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani is Gods gift to the cause of freedom and democracy in Iran, or that getting to choose who will elect the next T-Rex Supreme Leader is a step forward to the liberation of a nation. To vote or not to vote Under the smokescreen of these electoral feuds, and in the aftermath of the rise of the Green Movement in Iran, the decision to vote or not to vote in any subsequent election is the single most significant barometer of the direction in which the Iranian political culture is pacing its rollercoaster course within the tight bosoms of a beleaguered theocracy. Those Iranians who were gearing up to vote argued that when the electoral scene was so drastically bifurcated between those candidates clearly favoured by the ruling conservatives and those favoured by the combined force of the reformist supporters of the former President Mohammad Khatami and the moderate supporters of Rouhani, then voting against the ruling conservatives was itself a referendum of a sort, and would go a long way to alleviate many real and tangible social and economic issues, bringing Iran further out of international isolation in the aftermath of the nuclear deal. Those who did not advocate voting and with all due respect to those who did I was among them argued that this was a travesty of an election: It was already rigged from the get-go; it would cast an inevitable vote of confidence in the ruling apparatus of the Islamic Republic; it would make a mockery of those who sacrificed their lives asking the now historic question where is my vote? back in 2009; and Ayatollah Khamenei and the ruling elite of the Islamic Republic would use the vote to prove that he was right all along to call the Green Movement a seditious seed planted by foreigners. Always conscious of its weak foundations, the ruling regime did precisely that, and soon began to spin the massive number of voters to their benefit and as a sign of the credibility of their rule. Those reformists advocating voting began flaunting the picture of prominent poets, artists and filmmakers at voting stations as vindications that they were right. The retrograde hardliners were as disingenuous claiming victory as the opportunist reformists were fraudulent claiming a renewed life for their outdated and discredited politics. The ruling hardliners led by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei remain so conscious of their lack of national legitimacy that they use every opportunity to claim it; while the reformists championed by former President Khatami lubricate the machinery of repression by seeking to drag the Iranian political scene back a couple of decades when their infamous motto was pressure from below and negotiations from the top. OPINION: Iranians want change through the ballot box Both these political machinations just like the Republicans and Democrats in the United States, or else hardcore and liberal Zionists in Israel cover up and camouflage a different emerging reality. This is something that we witness in the rise of Bernie Sanders in the United States today and six years ago in the rise of the Green Movement in Iran. The Green Movement had far more radical implications than the reformists could stomach or the ruling regime could tolerate without brutally suppressing the same way that Sanders campaign in the US today has far more radical implications even for the Democratic Party to allow, let alone the Republicans to fathom. The binary is false As I argued soon after Rouhani was elected president in 2013 that what we witnessed during this and previous Iranian presidential elections is how the superior social intelligence of a democratically defiant public takes what the theocratic regime throws its way, breathes new life into it, and creates their own leaders. That social intelligence is still very much at work. What the highfalutin binary between the hardliners and the reformist conceals is something far more significant in the unfolding Iranian political culture: the measure of which is the evident dialectic formed between those who for whatever reason vote, and those who for a variety of other reasons do not vote. Those who vote do not necessarily believe in this charade, but their vote sends a clear signal to the world at large that Iranians are perfectly capable of playing chess with this crippled old nasty player, and secure a measure of political agency for themselves. Those who do not vote send an equally clear signal to the ruling regime that a significant segment of the nation remains a living witness to its naked brutality. These two forces ultimately come together to form a tertiary space in the emerging Iranian political culture that says no to both domestic tyranny and to foreign intervention. Those who voted cannot afford dismissing the principled position of those who did not vote, nor can those who refused to be party to this charade afford dismissing the shrewd move of those who voted. OPINION: After elections, Iranian womens demands are forgotten While the hardliners dismiss the reformists as agents of imperialism, the reformists discredit those who did not vote them back to power as belligerent and outdated losers, shamelessly banding them together with those treacherous expat opposition who advocate sanctions and war on their homeland. While the hardliners and reformists are fighting out their two versions of predatory neoliberalism, the Iranian voters both those who vote and those who do not vote have patiently paved the way for the rise of a much more critical force that the hardliners canot fathom nor the reformists stomach. Not just the hardliners but the reformists, too, have lost in these elections except they do not know it yet. The only winner is that beautiful dialectic formed between those who judiciously opted to vote and those who stubbornly refused to join this charade. The tired old reformists who have joined their hardliner brethren in these elections are the carriers of a creative seed they cannot yet imagine in their power-hungry imagination. Louis, as Rick says in that legendary line in Casablanca, I think this is the beginning of a beautiful friendship between those who vote and those who do not vote. Hamid Dabashi is Hagop Kevorkian Professor of Iranian Studies and Comparative Literature at Columbia University in New York. The views expressed in this article are the authors own and do not necessarily reflect Al Jazeeras editorial policy. Australian Cardinal George Pell says the Catholic Church has made enormous mistakes after becoming the highest-ranking Vatican official to give evidence on sexual abuse of children in the Church. Pell, 74, held up a Bible as he was sworn in to answer questions from Australias Royal Commission into Institutional Response to Child Sexual Abuse in front of victims in a Rome hotel room. Around 15 abuse victims and support staff travelled to Rome on the back of a crowd-funding campaign to see the Vaticans treasurer give evidence after he said he was unable to travel to his native Australia because of heart problems. While strictly speaking an Australian affair concerning events decades ago, the hearing has taken on wider implications about accountability of Catholic leaders because of Pells high position in the Vatican, where he serves as finance minister. The Church has made enormous mistakes and is working to remedy those but the Church in many places, certainly in Australia, has mucked things up, has let people down, Pell said as he began answering questions via video link to the commission in Sydney. Im not here to defend the indefensible. Pell has become the focal point for victims frustration over what they say has been an inadequate response from the Catholic Church to the abuse claims. Al Jazeeras Claudio Lavanga, reporting from Rome, said Pell will face questioning daily until Wednesday. He said the cardinal is not accused of sexual abuse. He is not facing criminal charges, but should the abuse commission rule that he ignored or protected abusers, his position as the Vaticans economy chief could become untenable, he said. READ MORE: Pope ends US visit with vow to punish sex abusers There were scuffles between security guards and journalists when Pell arrived at the Rome hotel a few hours before the hearing began at 10pm Italian time on Sunday (21:00 GMT), which is 8am Sydney time on Monday. We need the Vatican to stand up and take responsibility rather than hide behind legal processes and please help us heal the future, David Ridsdale, one of the abuse victims, told reporters as he entered the hotel. We dont want any more survivors. We need to be the last of the survivors. Thats our message. Pell and his supporters say he has done no wrong and that he has become a lightning rod for all cases of abuse. Angry refugees stranded at border rip open razor-wire barrier trying to enter Macedonia as guards fire tear gas. A riot broke out as hundreds of desperate refugees stranded at the Greece-Macedonia border smashed down a gate guarded by security forces on Monday. The razor-wire barrier was ripped open and border guards fired tear gas in response. Angry crowds shouted and pushed towards the barrier. Several men used a large steel post to ram the gate while trying to pry it open. Nearly 8,000 refugees are in limbo at the overcrowded border camp with a capacity of 2,000 at the village of Idomeni, according to Greek officials. The Idomeni camp is rapidly turning into the main focal point in the largest migration crisis in Europe since World War II. Can Greece cope with the refugee crisis? It was set up to shelter refugees as they wait for passage to Macedonia, which has greatly reduced the number of people allowed to pass in recent days. Al Jazeeras Hoda Abdel Hamid, reporting from Idomeni, said there was a rumour that the border crossing was opening, which brought hundreds rushing to the gate. There was a state of panic and hope that finally those gates towards Western Europe would open. Its an emotional roller-coaster for these refugees and migrants who are here, she said. About 50 refugees were allowed into Macedona on Monday. The refugees are saying, What weve seen here is going to divide opinion in Europe, Abdel Hamid reported. Its a completely different atmosphere at the moment from last year and they are aware of it. People are saying that this is not going to help us. They will see this and we will not be welcome.' The situation at Idomeni camp, the main transit point for refugees travelling towards western Europe, continues to deteriorate. Hundreds queued for hours for food at the camp on Greeces northern border. The people at the camp mostly Syrian and Iraqi refugees, many of them families with children complained over lack of access to basic facilities such as toilets and food distribution points. The situation is, as you see, like a disaster and they dont open the borders, Macedonia dont open the borders, and people are coming more and more, so there is a very big number of people who have to wait for a long time in the food [line] and in the toilet, said Hamsa, a Syrian refugee from Aleppo. Tensions ran high and scuffles broke out among people queuing up for an indeterminately long wait before being considered for passage to Macedonia. Struggling with limited resources to house migrants itself, Macedonia had briefly closed its border last week, only to re-open it but with much stricter controls, allowing only a few hundred people to pass through over the weekend. I am suffering here. I am slowly dying here. I dont know what Ill do, said Abdullah, another Syrian man from Aleppo. More than one million refugees and migrants passed through the camp in the previous 12 months, travelling from Turkey to Germany and other western European countries, where they hoped to secure asylum. A drought caused by the weather phenomenon El Nino has forced many farmers in Indonesia to delay planting their crops, as monsoon rains started two months late. Governor Frans Lebu Raya of West Timor province asked the national government for help. He also appealed to international organisations to assist if the situation worsens. In the village of Bene, in West Timor, the weather phenomenon is already causing food shortages, and residents are worried they will run out of food before the next harvest season. READ MORE: 58,000 children facing death in drought-hit Somalia Defrianus, a farmer, tried to plant corn three times this year. But he found that instead of nutritious food, only leaves grew. Most plants died because of a lack of water. This year rain only fell a couple of times. Sometimes rains are heavy but sometimes it only drizzles and sometimes it is only cloudy and there is no rain at all, he told Al Jazeera. The weather phenomenon El Nino, which is predicted to reach its peak in March, has badly affected monsoon rains in the Asia Pacific region. In many parts of Indonesia, rice harvests are predicted to fail because farmers have been unable to plant. For poor farmers, that means cutting back on food this year, leaving many people hungry. The government said food stocks were still sufficient, but experts expressed doubts. The government should closely watch food stocks right now and make sure that all their data is complete, Ujang Suparman, an agriculture specialist, told Al Jazeera. If necessary, they should start handing out food supplies. They dont need to make a big deal about this, just start handing out food where it is needed immediately, he said. For Defrianus and his wife, Stance, they can only hope any help will arrive soon. Execution of Mumtaz Qadri, who killed Punjab governor Salman Taseer in 2011, prompts muted celebration and protests. The execution of a man who killed the head of government of Punjab province over his call to reform strict blasphemy laws has revived the question of capital punishment in Pakistan. Mumtaz Qadri was a bodyguard for Salman Taseer when he shot the Punjab governor dead in Islamabad in 2011. After his arrest, he told police he had assassinated Taseer because he championed the cause of a Christian woman sentenced to death in a blasphemy case that arose out of a personal dispute. Taseer had said the law was being misused and should be reformed. Considering him a hero for defending Islam, Qadris supporters took to the streets of Islamabad, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta and Karachi following his hanging early on Monday morning. Celebration and protests While there were protests in big numbers and an equal amount of muted celebration the hanging prompted an outcry from various quarters that called for a moratorium on executions as a first step towards abolition of the death penalty. Champa Patel, director of Amnesty Internationals South Asia Regional Office, said: Taseer was a brave voice for religious tolerance in Pakistan and his murderer should be brought to justice, but carrying out more killings is a deplorable way to honour Taseers life and message. The death penalty is always a human rights violation, regardless of the circumstances or nature of the crime. MumtazQadri being hanged is a victory to #Pakistan. NOT the #Taseer family.The safe return of my brother is the only victory my family wants Shehryar Taseer (@shehryar_taseer) February 29, 2016 While it is positive that the government is committed to tackling religious extremism and is taking proactive steps to ensure perpetrators of violence are brought to justice, carrying out yet more killings only continues the cycle of violence. Earlier, Qadris attorney said his client told him he had no regrets for killing Taseer. I have met him twice in jail. He said that even if God gave me 50 million lives, I would still sacrifice all of them, lawyer Ghulam Mustafa Chaudhry said. Protesters briefly blocked the main road between Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Monday after news of the hanging broke. Police later dispersed them and closed off the road to prevent more demonstrations. Chaudhry predicted larger demonstrations as a nationwide strike on Tuesday has been called by Qadris supporters to protest against the hanging. Late in 2011, an anti-terrorism court handed down a double death sentence to Qadri for murder and terrorism. The sentence was appealed and upheld by the Supreme Court late last year. Jibran Nasir, a Pakistan lawyer and activist, says the country needs to unite on the issue of blasphemy laws instead of it becoming a war between Qadris fans and Taseers fans. Mumtaz Qadri was not only unrepentant on a cold blooded murder, but was also instigating other inmates for similar crimes. #CondemnedKiller Marvi Sirmed (@marvisirmed) February 29, 2016 I wont call anybodys death good news but the hanging has made a claim that when the state is challenged, it would enforce its laws, Nasir told Al Jazeera from Karachi. Qadris was a terrorist act and the Supreme Court upheld that. But when we see people celebrating or protesting, those are fringe elements. Were not talking about the liberals, moderates or even progressives here. What we need to remember is that Qadri was made this glorified poster boy of this huge problem. He was just the trigger, a foot soldier and the ones he was influenced by and looked up to are still roaming around freely. No media coverage National media played down news of the execution and the protests on orders of the government, two senior TV news anchors told AFP news agency. There was no coverage of crowds of angry Qadri supporters who flocked to pay their respects at his familys house in Rawalpindi where his body was laid out on a bed, his head surrounded by roses. The funeral is expected to be held on Tuesday. I have no regrets, Qadris brother Malik Abid told AFP, tears rolling down his cheeks, while women chanted nearby. He said the family had been called to the prison on Sunday evening by officials who said Qadri was unwell. But when they arrived, Qadri greeted them with the news that authorities had deceived them and that his execution was imminent. I am proud of the martyrdom of my son, Qadris father Bashir Awan told AFP, adding he was ready to sacrifice all five of his other sons for the honour of the prophet. Nasir, the lawyer, cautioned against making Qadri a hero in death, saying that by the show of affection on the streets, the common man is likely to be impressed by his actions. Qadri was showered with petals, sent cards on Valentines Day, called a warrior before his death and a martyr after his hanging, he said. We should not make him a celebrity and not give him unnecessary coverage. More than 100 people are charged with blasphemy each year in predominantly Muslim Pakistan, many of them Christians and other minorities. Conviction of blasphemy carries a death sentence. No one has yet been hanged, but those convicted languish in prison. With additional reporting by Faras Ghani: @farasG Blast strikes funeral in Miqdadiyah and security forces targeted in two different places in continuing wave of violence. Dozens of people have been killed for a second day in a row in Iraq as government forces continue to battle fighters in the western province of Anbar. A suicide bomber blew himself up at a funeral on Monday in Miqdadiyah, a town northeast of Baghdad, killing at least 38 people and injuring scores more. Later, at least eight security-force personnel were killed in attacks targeting a checkpoint in the western Baghdad suburb of Abu Ghraib, police sources said. Mondays violence follows one of Iraqs bloodiest days in recent weeks, with the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group claiming responsibility for attacks in different places. Two commanders killed The Miqdadiyah attack targeted a funeral for a well-known Shia member of the Beni Tamim, one of the main tribes in Diyala province. Sadiq al-Husseini, the head of the Diyala security committee, said a commander from Asaib Ahl al-Haq and another from Badr two powerful Shia armed units were killed in the blast. Officials in Diyala appealed for calm in the aftermath of the attack. Residents should join hands to get out of the current crisis, said Ali al-Tamimi, the head of the Miqdadiyah district council. Muthanna al-Tamimi, Diyalas governor, said: Miqdadiyah will not fall into the trap of sectarian strife promoted by some politicians. ISIL, which has seized territory both in Iraq and Syria, claimed responsibility in an online statement, saying a suicide bomber who detonated an explosive belt targeted a gathering of militia members. The statement listed the names of some who were allegedly killed. The attack in Miqdadiyah happened just hours after 16 Iraqi army soldiers and tribal fighters were killed in a village south of Fallujah, in Anbar, after shelling of their barracks. According to a statement released by the US defence department, American forces are expected to do more to help Iraqi troops fighting to retake Mosul than they did in the fight for Ramadi, the provincial capital of Anbar. Sundays violence In Sundays worst attack, two roadside bombs had targeted a market in Sadr City, a predominantly Shia neighbourhood north of Baghdad, killing at least 70 people. The explosions left 100 people injured in addition to the deaths. Elsewhere, government troops and policemen came under attack from ISIL. In Abu Ghraib, west of Baghdad, a number of policemen were kidnapped after an attack there. A nearby village was also raided by ISIL, military sources told Al Jazeera. Frustrated refugees in overflowing Greek camp destroy barrier along border, while police in France dismantle a camp. Police in Macedonia have fired tear gas and stun grenades after hundreds of frustrated Iraqi and Syrian refugees tried to force their way through a razor-wire barrier across the border into the southeastern European country from Greece. Tensions flared on Monday, with thousands of desperate refugees stuck for days on the Greek side of the border, overflowing from a packed refugee camp at Idomeni. The situation is very hectic; people just want a safe passage, Vicky Markolefa, of the Doctors Without Borders (MSF) aid organisation, told Al Jazeera from Idomeni. We denounce violence against innocent refugees. MSF treated many refugees for respiratory problems after they had tear gas fired on them, she said. Women and children were among those caught up in the crowds. Markolefa said people were forming 400-metre lines just for food. READ MORE: Syrian refugees new life in Spain We are overwhelmed. NGOs [non-governmental organisations] are doing their best to respond, but we are calling for European governments to act now. MSF said on Twitter that it had treated one patient suffering from tear-gas injuries who was just six weeks old. Al Jazeeras Hoda Abdel-Hamid, reporting from Idomeni, said a rumour that the border crossing with Macedonia was opening brought hundreds to the razor-wire barrier. There was a state of panic and hope that finally those gates towards Western Europe would open. Its an emotional rollercoaster for these refugees and migrants who are here, she said. Athens square becomes temporary camp as refugees are stranded About 50 refugees were allowed into Macedonia on Monday. The refugees are saying, What weve seen here is going to divide opinion in Europe, our correspondent said. Its a completely different atmosphere at the moment from last year and they are aware of it. People are saying, This is not going to help us. They will see this and we will not be welcome. Refugees in limbo Nearly 8,000 refugees are in limbo at the Idomeni border camp which has a capacity of 2,000, according to Greek officials. Many are spread out into the surrounding fields as they wait for Macedonian authorities to let them continue their trek through the Balkans. Only a tiny trickle of people from specific countries have been allowed to cross every day. Later in the day, Macedonia sent special police reinforcements by helicopter to its border with Greece. More than one million refugees and migrants have passed through the camp in the previous 12 months, travelling from Turkey to Germany and other Western European countries, where they hoped to secure asylum. Elsewhere on the continent, French authorities on Monday began dismantling part of a refugee camp known as the Jungle near Calais, after an expulsion order issued by the local administration was upheld last week by a judge. Workers in bright construction vests and helmets took down tarps and sheets of material that had been cobbled together to create shelters at the camp, which was home to those seeking a future in nearby Britain. Scores of riot police stood guard, keeping journalists and volunteers out as helmeted workers tackled the shelters one by one. Fabienne Buccio, a police prefect who had ordered the camp to be evacuated and dismantled earlier this month, showed up as the operation began. Her office decried intimidation tactics by some activists who, she said, were manipulating migrants into refusing to accept government offers of shelter. Really three houses out of four I mean three huts out of four, or three tents out of four were already totally abandoned with a lot of garbage inside, she said. Migrants, she said, had the time necessary to gather their belongings. The rest was good enough to throw away. Europe struggling After first sending welcoming messages, European authorities are now struggling to handle the situation. Hungary has fenced off its borders, refusing to accept any migrants, and other Eastern European countries say they will not take in anyone under an EU refugee-sharing deal. In recent weeks Austria at the north end of the Balkan corridor has severely restricted the inflow of refugees, causing a domino effect through the Balkans. Many of those countries are now refusing to let Afghan refugees in, although UN authorities say no one has explained to them who made this decision or why. Diplomatic tensions are rising, too, with criticism mounting against Austria. Greece has threatened to block decisions at a forthcoming EU-Turkey summit unless the bloc forces members to shoulder more of the refugee burden. For her part, German Chancellor Angela Merkel issued on Sunday another robust defence of her quest for a European solution to the crisis. She is resisting calls at home and elsewhere in Europe for limits on refugees such as those imposed by Austria. We cant do this in such a way that we simply abandon Greece, she said on ARD television. This is exactly what I fear: When one country defines its limit, another must suffer. That is not my Europe. At next Mondays summit, EU leaders will discuss how we can restore the [passport-free] Schengen system step by step with Greece, Merkel said. However, Reinhold Mitterlehner, Austrias deputy chancellor, said on Monday that the refugee restrictions are necessary [and] were going to maintain them. Several Hong Kong booksellers detained in China could be released for good attitude after confessing, reports say. Three of five Hong Kong booksellers missing for months could be released from detention in a few days, Hong Kong and Shanghai media are reporting, indicating for the first time that their disappearances were linked to their activities distributing unlicensed books in mainland China. Hong Kong daily, the South China Morning Post, reported on Monday that Lam Wing-kei, Lui Por and Cheung Ji-ping, of Causeway Bay Books, could be granted bail for good attitude while awaiting trial in Chinese jails. It was unclear if China was planning to send them back to Hong Kong. The report said Lam, Lui and Cheung were arrested in Shenzhen and Dongguan on October 17 and 24 last year, and had confessed to their crimes. Their arrests raised fears that Beijing has stepped up its crackdown on the press and the publishing industries, even among those living in the semi-autonomous former British colony. READ MORE: China accused of tricking dissidents into deportation Gui Minhai, a Chinese-born Swedish national, and Lee Bo, a British citizen, co-owners of the Hong Kong book store involved in the book distribution, are also detained in China. Gui went missing while in Thailand last October, while Lee disappeared while in Hong Kong in December. They later turned up in jails in the Chinese mainland and issued videotaped confessions, prompting accusations that Beijing had snatched them from Hong Kong and forced them to issue confessions. In a video confession, Gui reportedly claimed to have killed one person while driving a car. Lee said he voluntarily returned to China to help in the investigation of Gui. Mondays report said Gui had ordered his three associates Lam, Lui and Cheung to mail 4,000 books to buyers from across different Chinese cities since 2014. The booksellers are also accused of altering book covers and mailing them through the regular postal service to avoid customs inspections, the report said. Critics said they were arrested for selling publications critical of Beijing and President Xi Jinping. On February 12, Philip Hammond, the British foreign secretary, said that Lee was involuntarily removed from Hong Kong, and accused China of a serious breach of the treaty, under which it took control of the city. The Joint Declaration is the treaty signed in 1984 between Britain and China safeguarding Hong Kongs rights and freedoms after Beijing took power in 1997. Under the one country, two systems principle, Hong Kong retains a high degree of control over its own affairs, including law enforcement. President Rouhani and former President Rafsanjani both won seats in the assembly, along with 50 of their allies. Irans moderates have dealt another blow to the countrys hardliners, winning a majority of seats in the Assembly of Experts, a clerical council empowered with choosing the nations supreme leader. Irans Interior Ministry, which gave the final results for last weeks vote for the clerical assembly, announced on Monday that moderates won 59 percent of the seats in the body. Top moderates, including President Hassan Rouhani and former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, both won seats in the assembly, along with 50 of their allies, giving them a majority in the 88-member body. The vote was held at the same time as the countrys parliamentary elections. The final results of that vote were expected later on Monday. As the moderates claimed an historic victory, several prominent hardliners, including Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, were also re-elected. Jannati is also the hardline leader of the countrys Guardian Council, an unelected, constitutional watchdog that vets election candidates. He has been the most potent force to oppose democratic reforms and disqualify reformist candidates from the parliamentary balloting and also the clerical assembly vote. Jannati and his allies in the Guardian Council disqualified Hassan Khomeini, the grandson of the founder of the Islamic Republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, from running in Fridays vote. So far the reformists have been the winners, and the results in Tehran signal peoples dissatisfaction with the conservatives, Rohollah Faghihi, a Tehran-based political analyst and journalist, told Al Jazeera. Khatami effect Another former president, Mohammad Khatami, was also banned from running for office, and the publication of his name or photo is currently prohibited. But moderate candidates in both parliament and the Assembly of Experts rode on his popularity. The most surprising was the loss of seats on the clerical assembly for some prominent hardliners, including Ayatollah Mohammad Yazdi, the current Experts Assembly chief, who was not re-elected. Mohammad Taqi Mesbah Yazdi, the spiritual leader of hardliners and mentor of former hardline President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, also lost his seat in the assembly. The Assembly of Experts serves a function similar to that of the Vaticans College of Cardinals, and will one day have to pick a successor to Irans current Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The assembly can also directly challenge Khameneis rule, something it has not done before. The assembly is elected every eight years. After Khamenei, 76, underwent prostate surgery in 2014, speculation was renewed about the state of his health. Fridays twin elections for parliament and the clerical assembly were the first to be held in Iran since it struck a landmark nuclear deal with world powers last year that brought about the lifting of crippling international sanctions. The moderates previously held around 20 seats in the assembly and their win is seen as an expansion of their influence within the powerful body. As for the parliamentary elections, none of Irans three main political camps reformists, conservatives and hardliners are expected to win an outright majority in the 290-seat house. But partial results so far indicate the best reformist showing in more than a decade. With reporting from Ted Regencia. Follow him on Twitter @tedregencia Woman killed girl, burned down parents house, then carried severed head down the street among horrified onlookers. A nanny beheaded a young girl in her care and brandished her severed head at a metro station in Moscow before being arrested at the scene. The veiled woman, dressed in all black, shouted on Monday that she was a terrorist, but police said they suspect she is mentally unsound. According to preliminary information, the childs nanny a native of one of the Central Asian countries, born in 1977 waited until the parents left the apartment with their elder child and guided by unknown motives killed the little one, set the apartment on fire and left the scene, the police investigative committee said in a statement. Investigators said the woman was arrested and a criminal investigation opened. They said that the suspect would undergo a psychiatric examination to establish whether she understands the meaning of her actions and behaviour. Polina Nikolskaya, a reporter at the RBC daily newspaper, saw the women on the street. She was standing near the metro entrance and caught my attention because she was screaming Allahu Akbar, she told the Reuters news agency. I saw that she had a bloodied head in her arms, but I thought it was not real. People in the crowd said it was real. LifeNews, a news service known for its close ties to law enforcement agencies, said that when police approached the woman she responded by taking the head out of her bag and started yelling that she had killed a child. Detained student put in front of the media confesses to taking political poster for a US church in return for a car. A detained American student tearfully apologised for attempting to steal a political banner in North Korea from his hotel after being paraded in front of the media in Pyongyang. Otto Warmbier, 21, an undergraduate at the University of Virginia, was arrested in January for committing what North Korea called an anti-state crime with the tacit connivance of the US government and under its manipulation. Warmbier said on Monday that he wanted the banner with a political slogan on it as a trophy for a church back home. He said that he was offered a second-hand car worth $10,000 and was told if he was arrested and did not return, $200,000 would be paid to his mother. READ MORE: Holiday in North Korea? Warmbier said that he accepted the offer because his family was suffering from very severe financial difficulties. I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money, he said, adding that if he ever mentioned the involvement of the church, no payments would come. He said he was also encouraged by the Z Society at the University of Virginia, which he said he was trying to join. The magazine of the universitys alumni association describes the Z Society as a semi-secret ring society founded in 1892 which conducts philanthropy, puts on honorary dinners, and grants academic awards. Charges and punishment No details of what kind of charges or punishment Warmbier faces were immediately released. In previous cases, people who have been arrested in North Korea and given a public confession often recant those admissions after their release. North Korea regularly accuses Washington and Seoul of sending spies to overthrow its government to enable the US-backed South Korean government to control the Korean peninsula. Warmbier was arrested while visiting the country with Young Pioneer Tours, an agency specialising in travel to the North, which is strongly discouraged by the US State Department. He had been staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, which is located on an island on a river that runs through Pyongyang. Communities told not to eat fish after pipeline burst pours 3,000 barrels of crude oil into Chiriaco and Morona Rivers. Peru has declared an emergency three weeks after a major oil pipeline burst, affecting two rivers in the countrys northwest. The pipeline spilled 3,000 barrels of crude oil into the Chiriaco and Morona rivers, which are the main source of water and food for several indigenous communities. The government has told these communities not to eat fish from the polluted waters. Teolinda Lopez, an Aguajun, told Al Jazeera that her family is now forced to survive on bananas and yucca. Theyre coming in and contaminating the forest more and more, she said. Sickness is coming, the river is polluted. Before they didnt use to control the fish or what you ate, but the fish are now are sick just like people. Fish now safe The broken pipeline reportedly used to transport between 5,000 and 6,000 oil barrels per day. The pipeline is owned by Petro Peru, a state-owned oil company. The leader of the emergency-response team for Petro Peru, Victor Huarcaya, who is in charge of the spill clean-up, told Al Jazeera that fish was now safe. As Petro Peru, we say its safe to bathe and you can eat the fish, but the population distrusts us because they dont know oil and its behaviour, he said. The oil company has been accused of a slow reaction to the spill it only started providing food, water and medical attention weeks after the crisis, which has affected the health of more than 200 people. Perus main oil pipeline was built more than 30 years ago. This has been the third oil spill in less than a month. Community residents have said that at least eight indigenous communities rely on the rivers for water. As UN prepares to roll out aid in besieged areas, official says thousands cut off may have already starved to death. The United Nations human rights chief warned on Monday that thousands of people may have died of starvation during sieges affecting nearly half a million people in war-torn Syria. The comments by Zeid Raad al-Hussein came as the first major ceasefire in the five-year conflict entered its third day, and as the UN prepared to deploy lorries loaded with humanitarian aid into the country during the lull in fighting. The deliberate starvation of people is unequivocally forbidden as a weapon of warfare. By extension, so are sieges, said Hussein. He added: Thousands of people may have starved to death. Al Jazeeras Jamal Elshayyal, reporting from the Turkish border town of Gaziantep, noted that US Secretary of State John Kerry had accused the Syrian government of using food as a weapon of war. This war in recent months hasnt just been fought with weapons it has also been fought through the use of food, he said. The guns here havent gone totally silent, so its still dangerous for aid workers. Syrian IDPs struggle in al-Salama refugee camp The UN and its partner organisations were planning to start delivering aid to Syrians in several besieged areas previously cut off by the violence. A UN spokesman told Al Jazeera that lorries bound for Mouadamiya in the southern outskirts of Damascus were loaded and were planning to move shortly. Aid deliveries were also planned to arrive in the towns of Zabadani, Kefraya, Fouaa and Madaya by Wednesday. The deliveries are part of humanitarian aid planned for 1.7 million people in hard-to-reach areas in the first quarter of 2016, Yacoub El Hillo, UN Resident Coordinator in Damascus, said in a statement on Sunday. The UN estimates there are almost 500,000 people living under siege of a total of 4.6 million who are hard to reach with aid. It is the best opportunity that the Syrian people have had over the last five years for lasting peace and stability, El Hillo said. But we all know that without a meaningful political process and a political solution, both cessation of hostilities and entry of humanitarian assistance will not be enough to end the crisis in Syria. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and John Kerry spoke on the phone on Sunday at the initiative of Moscow on the progress of the ceasefire, Russias foreign ministry reported on Monday. Syrias main opposition grouping, the High Negotiations Committee, on Sunday described the ceasefire as positive, but lodged a formal complaint with the UN and foreign governments about breaches on the first day. Its letter to Ban Ki-moon, the UN secretary-general, accused Bashar al-Assads government and its allies of committing 24 violations with artillery shelling and five ground operations in 26 areas held by the moderate opposition. The letter, signed by the committees head Riad Hijab, also criticised Russia for conducting 26 air strikes on areas falling within the ceasefire. It said that continued breaches of the ceasefire would make peace talks unattainable. Syrias ally Russia has said that it has only targeted areas under the control of al-Nusra Front, which is linked to al-Qaeda, and the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant. Al-Nusra Front and ISIL are excluded from the terms of the international pact. Omar Zayed died in suspicious circumstances at Palestinian embassy, having escaped from Israeli custody 25 years ago. A symbolic funeral has been held in Gaza for a Palestinian man who died under suspicious circumstances in Bulgaria. Friends and relatives of Omar Zayed remembered the 52-year-old, whose body was found in the Palestinian embassys grounds in Sofia on Friday. Prosecutors are investigating whether he was pushed or fell from a high floor. Born in the occupied West Bank city of Jenin, Zayed was convicted and sentenced by an Israeli court to life in prison in 1986 for the killing of an Israeli yeshiva student in occupied East Jerusalem. Zayed escaped from Israeli custody 25 years ago and had lived in the Bulgarian capital since 1994. There, he ran a grocery story and attained Bulgarian residency. His wife and three children all have Bulgarian citizenship. READ MORE: Palestinian evades Israel extradition in Sofia embassy On December 15 last year, the Israeli embassy in Sofia requested that the Bulgarian government extradite Zayed. In response, Bulgarian police gave him 72 hours to turn himself in so that he could be sent to Israel. About four weeks ago, he went to the Palestinian embassy and refused to leave. Rania, Zayeds widow, is convinced Israels security services finally caught up with her husband. Even from inside the embassy, he was told that Israel has all the keys of the doors, she said at the funeral. They told him he was inside the embassy but they cant protect him. They were urging him to go and leave the embassy. Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas condemned the act as a crime and the official Palestinian news agency WAFA said Abbas had ordered an investigation into the circumstances of Zayeds death. An Israeli foreign ministry spokesperson said it had learned of the death in the media and was studying the information. Opposition alleges air raids on parts of countrys north as trucks carrying supplies enter besieged suburb of Damascus. The UN chief says a shaky ceasefire in Syria is holding by and large on its third day, despite scattered fighting and growing accusations of violations. However, a war of words between the Syrian government and Saudi Arabia, a key backer of the opposition, has added to rising tensions. Speaking in Geneva, Ban Ki-moon, the UN secretary-general, confirmed receiving a letter from the High Negotiations Committee (HNC), the main umbrella opposition group, complaining of continuing violations by the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian backers. The letter, sent on Sunday, urged the UN to help to specify the territory covered by the truce to prevent hostilities. READ MORE: What you need to know about the ceasefire in Syria? The opposition reported air raids on several parts of northern Syria and warned that continued violations would jeopardise the planned resumption of UN-brokered peace talks in Geneva on March 7. Riad Hijab, who heads the HNC, said in the statement to Ban that Russian, Iranian and government forces have not stopped hostilities since the ceasefire went into effect. He said there had been 24 instances of shelling and five of ground attacks. He said Russian warplanes carried out 26 air strikes on Sunday alone, targeting rebels that are abiding by the truce. Violations from all sides Al Jazeeras Omar al-Saleh, reporting from Gaziantep near Turkeys border with Syria, said: By our own accounts, in the last three days of the truce including today there have been at least 60 violations from all sides, including the Syrian government, the opposition and the Russians. When you compare that to the level of violence before the truce, it has dramatically decreased. Thats why you hear Ban Ki-moon saying that the truce is largely holding. But whats worrying is that senior members of the Syrian opposition are warning that if these violations continue the truce could really collapse. The Syrian foreign ministry said recent statements by Adel al-Jubeir, Saudi foreign minister, were lies meant to boost the morale of fighters who have suffered setbacks in Syria in recent weeks and demonstrate the kingdoms destructive role in Syria. Jubeir had reiterated Saudi Arabias longstanding position that Syrian President Bashar al-Assad must leave power, either peacefully or through military means. He also accused Syrian forces of violating the ceasefire. The Russian- and US-brokered ceasefire that went into effect on Saturday excludes the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) group as well as al-Qaedas branch in Syria, al-Nusra Front. French call for meeting The French foreign minister on Monday called for a meeting without delay of a taskforce to monitor the cessation of hostilities. Jean-Marc Ayrault spoke shortly before addressing a meeting of the Human Rights Council in Geneva. Staffan de Mistura, the UN envoy to Syria, has planned a meeting of the taskforce, led by the US and Russia, for later in the day. Ban said he wanted the ceasefire extended beyond the planned duration of two weeks. The UN also said it plans to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance to about 154,000 people living in besieged locations inside Syria over the next five days. A briefing note sent out by the UNs Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) on Monday said the assistance will include food, water and sanitation supplies, as well as non-food items and medicine. An official with the Syrian Arab Red Crescent said dozens of trucks carrying aid started entering a besieged rebel-held suburb of the Syrian capital, Damascus, for the first time since the ceasefire went into effect. Muhannad al-Assadi said that the 51 trucks were carrying domestic supplies such as blankets, soap and diapers. He said it was the third aid convoy that has been allowed to enter Moadamiya in recent weeks. Aid deliveries are a main opposition demand in advance of the planned peace talks. An attempt to restart talks collapsed earlier this month over escalating violence, including a Russian-backed government offensive in Aleppo. Fighting in the province continued on Monday, with Syrian state media reporting that troops and other pro-government forces have opened the road linking the northern city of Aleppo with central and western Syria after it was cut by ISIL last week. OPINION: Syria ceasefire is impaired by oppositions pathologies For its part, Lebanons Hezbollah group said it had recovered the body of a senior commander, Ali Fayyad, who was killed during fighting in the region. The Shia group fighting alongside Assads forces in Syria said the body of the commander, locally known as Haj Alaa, was recovered on Sunday night in an operation in which Syrian and Hezbollah special forces took part. Fayyad was a Hezbollah veteran who had led major battles against the Israeli army in south Lebanon. Lebanese media say he was among four Hezbollah fighters killed in Aleppo last week. In the central province of Hama, warplanes carried out repeated attacks on the village of Harebnafsah amid fighting between the army and rebels, according to the UK-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR) and the Local Coordination Committees (LCC), both opposition monitoring groups. The LCC said the warplanes were Russian. It was not immediately clear which rebel groups were taking part in the fighting. The SOHR reported that government forces captured an area near the Damascus suburb of Harasta after a day of fighting with fighters, including al-Nusra Front. The war in Syria has claimed 270,000 lives and displaced more than half the population. More than 4,000 jobseekers attend Berlin event, which aims to help integrate asylum seekers by finding them employment. Berlin, Germany Thousands of job-seeking refugees have attended an employment fair in the German capital, Berlin, which attracted 211 prospective employers from a number of fields, including information technology, medicine, tourism and construction. Mondays event at the Estrel Hotel was part of a collaborative effort by the public and private sector to integrate refugees with protection status into the local labour market. According to Christian Henkes, spokesman for Germanys Federal Employment Agency, which co-organised the event, the turnout was higher than expected, with more than 4,000 jobseekers in attendance. Theres big interest on [the] part of the employers that really want to give these people a chance in the country, Henkes told Al Jazeera. And theres also a huge willingness by those people who came here to Germany to find a job. A total of 476,649 asylum applications were registered in Germany last year, almost twice as many as in 2014. The number of applicants has continued to rise this year, with 52,103 applications registered in January alone. More than a third of the 2015 asylum applicants in Germany were Syrian nationals. Kais Almudhi, a Syrian refugee, who worked as a mechanical engineer before the war, arrived in Germany three months ago and is now hoping to find work. He told Al Jazeera that it was important for him to make use of the opportunities the job fair presented. I came here to consult with others, to choose what job is best, and I have registered with three or four companies. I think I have a good chance, the 45-year-old said. The job fair took place in Neukolln, a district of Berlin where about 10 percent of the population is of Arab descent. We invest in people to enable them to stand up for themselves, said Franziska Giffey, Neukollns mayor, who was present at the fair. Due to this, we have a really good chance of integration because when somebody works, when somebody learns the language, they integrate with the society and will make an effort to be a part of this country. Thats important for social peace. READ MORE: Refugees take on struggles at major meeting in Germany Germanys private sector was represented at the job fair by large firms such as Marriott which operates four hotels in Berlin and mid-size enterprises such as Bio Company, a popular chain of organic grocery stores. Our goal is that in each of our stores, there will be one refugee, said Helena Jachmann, Bio Companys human resources officer, who recruited sales people at the fair. Our CEO is very interested in being a part of the integration, she added. Thousands of refugees are stranded in Greece after other European countries imposed a cap on arrivals. More than 100,000 refugees and migrants have arrived in Greece in the first two months of this year. Many hoping to travel further across Europe are struggling to make that dream a reality. Now their journey has become more difficult. Macedonia, Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia have announced that they will accept fewer than 600 migrants and refugees a day. Austria will take only 80 asylum seekers daily. So the burden on Greece weighs more heavily than ever before. The growing humanitarian crisis complicates an already fragile economic situation, as many Greeks struggle with years of austerity. Austrias refusal to accept more refugees is damaging relations with Greek government leaders. So what is the impact on European relations? And can the EU help? Presenter: Jane Dutton Guests: Karl Kopp Director for European Affairs of the human rights organisation Pro Asyl Gerald Knaus Chairman of the European Stability Initiative Florian Hartleb Political scientist researching Europes security crisis The case against Assange is as political as it is legal; where does it go from here? Plus, Kenyas election influencers. The following morning, we came together at our agreed meeting point, and Liane led me along the jungle path toward her yellow treatment cabana, pointing out orchids and other flowers along the way. The first 45 minutes of the treatment was an Ayurvedic massage using a blend of warm oils (common base oils are coconut and sesame, which are mixed with pure essential oils, such as sweet fennel, tulsi, ginger, grapefruit, and veviter; for me, Liane used a combination of sunflower and rose oils"for self-love," she explained). The massage was unlike any I had ever had. Instead of the long, deep strokes I'm used to in acupressure body treatments, this massage incorporated short, sharp back-and-forth movements to create friction. Liane rapidly rubbed between each and every vertebra and back rib before moving on to the shoulder girdles, neck, head, and face, then finished with refloxology on both the hands (focusing on the palm and back of each hand) and feet (focusing on the inside and outside of the ankles and the tops of each foot). She explained that the mild-pressure strokes are meant to detox and strengthen tissue and spark blood circulation and energy. The second half of the treatment was when things really got rapturous. For 45 minutes, Liane slowly, slowly, slowly (did I say slowly?) poured an ultra-fine, continuous stream of hot oil between my brows, from where it would course over my forehead and scalp. In my New York City life, the thought of oil gushing over my face and hair for nearly an hour would sound like a punishment. It would be 45 minutes during which every trifling concern of mine would surface with a vengeance. But in this laid-back, beachy setting, where I had nothing else to do all day but flow through yoga classes, listen to chants, and swim in shockingly clear turquoise water, I was able to instantly and completely surrender to the magic. Within one minute, I could feel my monkey mind becoming calmer and calmer, my brain waves slower and slower. I soon drifted into what was likely the deepest relaxation of my life. When it was over, I realized that the treatment had tempered my perpetual neck and shoulder tension, something that even the 20 hours of yoga that week hadn't yet done. Because the ashram is caffeine-free, I had been having withdrawal headaches, but I walked out of Liane's hut without the gnawing feeling behind my eyes that I had almost grown used to. There isn't a lot to feel stressed over at Sivananda (except for having to pull yourself out of the ocean in time for your beachfront yoga class), but I felt even more at peace and anxiety-free than I had for the past week. I kept to myself for as long as possible to preserve the zen. My hair and skin were slick with oil but felt so soft that I wanted to let it soak in all day. Too bad I had to go swimming in the Caribbean just a few minutes later. Tunisia, Burkina Faso and Kazakhstan are due to be reviewed for the first time by the UN Committee on Enforced Disappearances (CED), which is meeting in Geneva from 7 to 18 March. The Committee, which is composed of 10 international independent human rights experts, monitors implementation of the International Convention for the Protection of All []http://feedproxy.google.com/~r/Appa-sourceTheAfric... Now you can make cost efficient and reliable calls to Bangladesh using Amantel Bangladesh Calling Cards. We at Amantel provide our user a better calling option through our virtual or non physical and trusted international calling cards. You can even lower down your phone bills by using these phone cards either through your mobile or landline. 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Ask Spock Spock.com Engine Predicts Winners By Site Searches; It Can be Wrong by Jay Bhatti Chatting Up The Cat God Gave Me Dominion Over Him But I Think He's a Non-Believer by Constance Daley Death of a Thug The Life and Horrors of Suharto by Andreas Harsono ___________________________ This Just In Sierra Club: McCain Ducked All 15 Key Votes On Green Laws (AR) A Work By AR's T.S. Kerrigan Is Chosen As 'Best Poem' By Wordpress Site Murder At Mile 63 The Deadly Assault and Bush Administration Cover-Up by S. Eben Kirkesby and Andreas Harsono 5427 14th St. West, Bradenton, FL 34207 $6.99 Fish Fridays! Manatee Co.'s Only 24-Hr. FREE Wi-Fi Paid Advertisement On Native Ground AFTER 5 YEARS, WE'RE STILL LIED TO ABOUT IRAQ by Randolph T. Holhut DUMMERSTON, Vt. -- Next week is the fifth anniversary of the U.S. invasion of Iraq. And it is likely that sometime in the next couple of weeks, the 4,000th American soldier will die in Iraq. [MORE] Momentum OFF TO SEE THE WIZARD by Joyce Marcel DUMMERSTON, Vt. - It's 1931, and a 14-year-old girl is standing alone on a stage. She's small and lively with dark curly hair, widespread hazel eyes, slender wrists and an open, eager face filled with the wonder of performing. Her name is Rose, and one day she will be my mother. But now she is performing an Eugene O'Neill monologue called "Before Breakfast" for a ladies' club in a wealthy suburb of Long Island. [MORE] One Woman's World COMFORTABLE WITH MYSELF by Elizabeth T. Andrews CARTERSVILLE, Ga. -- I'm not sure but I think I may be socially incorrect. [MORE] On Native Ground ENOUGH FOR A WAR, NOT FOR A PEOPLE by Randolph T. Holhut DUMMERSTON, Vt. -- Last week, the National Governors Assn. met in Washington, D.C. One of the tasks the NGA had on its agenda was to ask President Bush to increase federal spending on roads, bridges and other public works projects as a way to stimulate the economy. He rejected their pleas out of hand, claiming that infrastructure projects wouldn't offer any short-term economic boost. [MORE] Brasch Words BEWARE THE SELF-REVERENTIAL PRESS by Walter Brasch BLOOMSBURG, Pa. -- Shortly before the primary votes this past week, Newsweek's Jonathan Alter called Sen. Barack Obama's surge to the Democratic nomination "inevitable." It also called for Hillary Clinton to "start her campaign for Senate majority leader." [MORE] Constance A CONVERSATION WITH MY CAT Constance Daley ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. -- Normally, when the cat starts his evening rant of meowing continuously until he makes his point, I just take it as long as I can, pick him up, and put him in the garage for the night. He doesn't want to go, but the meowing stops and I don't care if he likes it or not. [MORE] Momentum OUT OF STRUGGLE, ART by Joyce Marcel DUMMERSTON, Vt. -- Here we are again at the crossroads of art and social change, having the opportunity to watch good and great films about the lives of women in support of the Women's Crisis Center. [MORE] Campaign 2008 HOW TO PREDICT SUPER TUESDAY II WINNERS? ONLINE SEARCH by Jay Bhatti NEW YORK, March 4, 2008, 7:00PM ET -- With the outcomes of the Texas, Vermont, Ohio and Rhode Island primaries to be decided tonight, how possible is it that online searching can predict who will win tonight's primaries? [MORE] One Woman's World DON'T VOTE; IT ENCOURAGES THEM by Elizabeth T. Andrews CARTERSVILLE, Ga. -- Call me angry and disgusted but don't call me un-American because I won't be voting come November. [MORE] On Native Ground BUSH AND THE KEYBOARD COMMANDOS by Randolph T. Holhut DUMMERSTON, Vt. -- As the days tick down toward the eventual departure of President George W. Bush from the White House, it's a hopeful sign that most Americans are no longer moved by his Administration's constant exploitation of terrorism for political gain. [MORE] Momentum WHICH AMERICA DO YOU LIVE IN? by Joyce Marcel DUMMERSTON, Vt. -- It's a little confusing. [MORE] Make My Dat THE LAWYER THAT ATE NEW YORK by Erik Deckers INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- I used to know a guy who, quite literally, didn't get hyperbole. He didn't understand exaggeration. As a result, he missed most jokes that came his way. [MORE] On Native Ground FIDEL RETIRES: NOW THE COLD WAR IS REALLY OVER by Randolph T. Holhut DUMMERSTON, Vt. -- Maybe now, we can finally say the Cold War is over. [MORE] Make My Dat THE LAWYER THAT ATE NEW YORK by Erik Deckers INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- I used to know a guy who, quite literally, didn't get hyperbole. He didn't understand exaggeration. As a result, he missed most jokes that came his way. [MORE] One Woman's World POLITICS IS NO PARTY by Elizabeth T. Andrews CARTERSVILLE, Ga. -- Are you having a hard time focusing your eyes? Do you have faint red spots all over your body? Is there a ringing in your ears and do you see wavy lines when you look at your television set? Do your hands shake when you try to hold a cup of coffee? And have you recently been forgetting what day of the week it is - or what year? [MORE] Make My Day FOR BETTER OR WORSE ... A LOT WORSE by Erik Deckers INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- "Marriage: It's Only Going to Get Worse." [MORE] Constance YOU CALL THESE RIGHTS? by Constance Daley ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. -- When you express an opinion you hope to persuade others to your point of view. It doesn't always happen but still, opinion writers try. [MORE] Momentum THE BRIDGE WOMAN by Joyce Marcel DUMMERSTON, Vt. - Out there in America - yes, still - is a generation of women who were born in the 1940s, raised in the 1950s, and who came to radical consciousness in the late 1960s and early 1970s. I am one of them. Hillary Clinton is one of them. [MORE] On Native Ground OBAMA AND MY GENERATION by Randolph T. Holhut DUMMERSTON, Vt. -- I originally planned on voting for Dennis Kucinich in the Vermont Primary on March 4. [MORE] The Willies: WARNING: THIS MEDICATION MAY MURDER YOUR FRIENDS by Joe Shea BRADENTON, Fla. -- You've heard the warnings, haven't you? Stop Prozac and you may take a shotgun, an Uzi or an AK-47 and mow down your family and friends, or even a whole classroom full of your fellow students. You didn't? Well, that warning is not on the bottle, but like countless mass-murder incidents before it, Friday's shootings at Northern Illinois University, as well as the Virginia Tech shootings that killed 32 last year, was probably precipitated by the effect of stopping medications that suppress anger and other powerful emotions but do not relieve the underlying cause. Isn't it time we started warning people - or stopped prescribing these medicines? [MORE] One Woman's World DON'T KNOCK ON MY DOOR by Elizabeth T. Andrews CARTERSVILLE, Ga. -- I wish I could feel delight in my poet's mansion being like Grand Central Station all the time, but I can't. And I wish my place was such a place that someone would one day write: "Her door was always open and she always made you feel all fuzzy and warm in her presence. She could make a cup of coffee seem like a banquet." [MORE] Reporting: Panama PANAMA'S VIOLENT LABOR UNREST INTENSIFIES Mark Scheinbaum PANAMA CITY, Panama, Feb, 15, 2008 -- After just one day of relative calm, wildcat construction strikes by some members of Panama's largest union flared up again Friday morning, four days after a police sniper shot one worker. More than 140 demonstrators have been injured and at least 500 arrested, authorities say. [MORE] Brasch Words TO STIMULATE ECONOMY, BUY A CHINESE-MADE U.S. FLAG by Walter Brasch BLOOMSBURG, Pa. -- Walking down Main Street, pushing a grocery cart loaded with clothes, toys, and appliances was Marshbaum. Fastened to the right front corner of the cart was an American flag tied onto a three-foot ruler. [MORE] Make My Day THE TOOTH, AND NOTHING BUT THE TOOTH by Erik Deckers INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- To commemorate the death of noted shark exploder Roy Scheider, and the "Jaws" movies that resulted in Erik never setting foot in the ocean again, we are reprinting this column from 2003. Shark Experts 0, Sharks 1 [MORE] Momentum THE WINTER OF MY DISCONTENT by Joyce Marcel DUMMERSTON, Vt. - As I write this, it's raining ice. Maybe a half a foot of snow and ice has already landed up here in the woods of Dummerston. Our cars are encased in it, and the door to the house is blocked. The satellite dish that brings in our Internet service quit about 20 minutes ago - frozen solid. [MORE] The Willies AMERICA TO HILLARY: GET OUT! by Joe Shea BRADENTON, Fla., Feb. 13, 2008 -- Sen. Hillary Clinton has adopted the Rudy Giuliani strategy, and it's working - for Sen. Barack Obama. It turns out to be the strategy all Democrats are seeking - an exit strategy. But it's not for Iraq. It's for her exit from the race for the 2008 Democratic Presidential nomination. [MORE] Constance CONFESSIONS OF A DISAPPOINTED VOTER by Constance Daley ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga. -- A week ago at just about this time, I completed an article and was about to submit it as scheduled to The American Reporter. I was feeling rather elated, ready to show up on Super Tuesday morning, firmly touch the X next to Rudy Giuliani's name and get on with my day. He was my choice; he would get my vote. [MORE] Reporting: Florida SIERRA CLUB SET TO SUSPEND FLA. CHAPTER by Joe Shea BRADENTON, Fla., Feb. 10, 2008 -- The national Sierra Club is set to suspend its Florida chapter after years of divisive infighting, the president of the national club told Florida members in a letter delivered to some this weekend. It is the first time in its 116-year history that such a step has been considered by the club, according to news reports. [MORE] One Woman's World PLANT A NEW WORLD THIS SPRING by Elizabeth T. Andrews CARTERSVILLE, Ga. -- For a little while, the men will just have to toss and turn in their fear-free-women beds. For a small space of time Hillary Clinton will just have to trudge on toward the White House without my faint applause in the background. [MORE] On Native Ground VERMONT AND THE 5 STAGES OF CONSERVATIVE GRIEF by Randolph T. Holhut DUMMERSTON, Vt. -- First, Vermont tried to convince the nation to impeach President Bush and Vice President Cheney. [MORE] Make My Day REBEL WITHOUT A TONGUE by Erik Deckers INDIANAPOLIS, Ind. -- Kids' brains work in amazing ways. At times, they can grasp complex concepts and make impressive discoveries. Other times, you have to wonder how we ever survived as a species. [MORE] The Willies FOR DEMOCRATS, NOW IT'S ABOUT RACE, INCOME AND GENDER by Joe Shea BRADENTON, Feb. 6, 2008 -- It's not a good time to be a Democrat. As the Super Tuesday results demonstrated, the presidential race between Sens. Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton has divided the partly along clear racial, income and gender lines - the very distinctions the party has sought to erase in principle but has emphasized in its pursuit of diversity. [MORE] Momentum SUPER TUESDAY BLUES by Joyce Marcel DUMMERSTON, Vt. -- Super Tuesday has come and gone and I still can't get excited about the upcoming presidential elections. [MORE] The Willies ON THE BRINK OF HISTORY, YOUR PUSH IS NEEDED by Joe Shea BRADENTON, Fla., Feb. 5. 2008 -- I'm expecting a sea change tonight. I believe that for the first time in this nation's history we will once and forever banish racism as the deciding factor in the destiny of African-Americans, and indeed adopt diversity as our path to the future. [MORE] Campaign 2008 AT 88, EVERY VOTE REALLY COUNTS by Ted Manna DENVER, Feb. 5, 2008 -- Pearl Turner will caucus for Mitt Romney tonight in Denver. [MORE] One Woman's World STAND BY YOUR WOMAN by Elizabeth T. Andrews CARTERSVILLE, Ga. -- The black vote. The gay vote. The fundamentalist vote. The Hispanic vote. [MORE] An AR Special SUSPECTS IN BENAZIR ASSASSINATION HAVE TIES TO MUSHARRAF by Ahmar Mustikhan WASHINGTON, D.C. -- When Gordon Brown this past Monday feted coup-leader-turned-President Pervez Musharraf at 10 Downing Street, Britain's new prime minister probably didn't ask the Pakistani dictator a question that is now on many minds: Did you order the murder of Benazir Bhutto? [MORE] Momentum TO THE VERMONT DELEGATION: WHAT HAVE YOU DONE FOR US LATELY? by Joyce Marcel DUMMERSTON, Vt. Back when President George W. Bush and Dick Vice President Dick Cheney were building up to their loathsome war in Iraq, very few people were brave enough to call the bullies' bluff. [MORE] On Native Ground IF BUSH HAS HIS WAY, WE'LL NEVER LEAVE IRAQ by Randolph T. Holhut DUMMERSTON, Vt. - In his final State of the Union address on Jan. 28, President Bush cautioned against accelerating U.S. troop withdrawals from Iraq, saying that it would endanger the process that has been made over the past year. [MORE] Campaign 2008 CLASH OF COMMENTS AND PROTESTORS AT CLINTON, OBAMA RALLIES IN DENVER by Ted Manna DENVER, Feb. 1, 2008 -- At least four presidential campaigns of both partiers rolled into in Denver this week ahead of the Feb. 5 "Super Tuesday" primaries in 22 states, but it was the Democratic presidential contenders who drew the big crowds and duked it out Wednesday. If sheer numbers are any indication, Sen. Barack Obama - preceded by a buoyant and beautiful Caroline Kennedy - won the round handily. He is the overwhelming favorite to win the Colorado primary next Tuesday. [MORE] The Willies WHY THE FLORIDA PRIMARY STINKS by Joe Shea BRADENTON, Fla., Jan. 30, 2008 -- I was with my wife and daughter driving the back way from Miami home to Bradenton when we stopped at a McDonald's in Clewiston, the only big town along the vast shore of Lake Okeechobee, the state's precious freshwater reservoir. The McDonald's had three televisions at a central seating area, each tuned to a different network, and our table was in front of CNN as the very first election results started to pour in around 7:30PM. With them, almost as counterpoint, suddenly came such an overwhelming odor of cow plop that my wife started to throw up as we all ran to the parking lot. [MORE] Passings: Suharto DEATH OF A KEMUSU THUG by Andreas Harsono JAKARTA - A few minutes after hearing that former president Suharto had died in his hospital bed, Marco, a militia leader in downtown Jakarta, raced to Suhartos house, wearing his jungle camouflage and began guarding the Suhartos residence on Cendana Street. [MORE] Constance I REMEMBER YOU by Constance Daley ST. SIMONS ISLAND, Ga.. -- It seems to be more often lately that the sentiment is spoken but it's always been out there: "You never get over the death of your child." This is true. But the heartfelt expressions come from some who cannot fathom the notion of losing a child; their own child is who is in their mind, not another mother's child. [MORE] Despite the rancor among the presidential field leading up to Super Tuesday, there is an issue on which candidates from opposite sides of the spectrum seem to agree: the need for regulatory relief for the nation's community banks. Candidates ranging from Ted Cruz to Marco Rubio to Hillary Clinton have all voiced support for lightening the burden on smaller institutions. Fortunately, we do not have to wait until November to act on community bank overregulation. The Independent Community Bankers of America recently released our updated platform of reasonable regulatory relief provisions that Congress can quickly pass to ease the burden and unleash credit availability at the local level. The platform focuses on regulations that inhibit access to the capital essential to community bank viability, stifle lending to mortgage borrowers and small businesses and overwhelm smaller institutions with regulatory oversight much better targeted at riskier megabanks. ICBA's Plan for Prosperity would address the impact of the Basel III capital rules and the Volcker Rule on community banks. It seeks expanded community bank exemptions from Consumer Financial Protection Bureau mortgage restrictions to make credit available to lower-income borrowers and others having trouble accessing credit. The plan would offer mutual banks new charter options and implement tax credits to offset the government-sponsored competitive advantage enjoyed by tax-exempt credit unions and Farm Credit System lenders. And it proposes needed updates to rules on Subchapter S corporations, bank-qualified bonds, small-business data collection and Securities and Exchange Commission oversight. Collectively, these policy prescriptions would go far toward achieving what the presidential candidates and many other policymakers say they want: community banks that can focus their resources on local lending instead of regulatory compliance. There is no question the problem of regulatory burden is real for consumers and community banks alike. ICBA's Community Bank Lending Survey released last year found that three-quarters of community bank respondents said new mortgage regulations are keeping them from making more residential mortgage loans. And the growing regulatory burden has contributed to a 32% decline in the number of community banks with under $100 million in assets which limits access to financial services in the communities that depend on these local institutions. The good news is that Congress has laid a foundation by enacting regulatory relief on which they should continue to build. New laws expanding the 18-month exam cycle to qualifying institutions, eliminating redundant privacy notice requirements, expanding access to CFPB rural mortgage lender benefits, and allowing thrift holding companies to take advantage of recent Securities and Exchange Commission registration thresholds all enacted at the end of 2015 are an important down payment on meaningful community bank relief. Meanwhile, several bills pending in Congress including bipartisan legislation to streamline community bank call reports and a more comprehensive measure approved by the Senate Banking Committee would expand on these successes. The bottom line is that we don't need to count on grandiose stump speeches and campaign pledges to make a difference for Main Street banking. Community bankers nationwide already know what policy changes will have a practical impact on their ability to put a borrower in their first home or help someone start or expand their small business. In an era of tepid economic growth and too-big-to-fail institutions, allowing the community banking sector to thrive through more balanced and sensible regulation is something upon which we can all agree. Camden R. Fine is president and CEO of the Independent Community Bankers of America. NorthWest Indiana Bancorp in Munster has appointed its chief executive's son as CEO-in-waiting. Benjamin Bochnowski will be named chief executive of both the holding company and the $865 million-asset Peoples Bank at the bank's April 28 annual meeting. David Bochnowski will retire from both positions at the annual meeting, though he will remain chairman of both entities. The younger Bochnowski started work at Peoples Bank in 2010 and has been the bank's president and chief operating officer since January 2015. David Bochnowski joined Peoples Bank in 1977 as legal counsel and was named CEO in 1981. He was the company's largest shareholder, as of Feb. 20, 2015, holding a 12.5% stake. In 1754, Jean-Jacques Rousseau published his Discourse on the Origin and Basis of Inequality among Men. In this work, Rousseau identified capitalism as the ultimate basis of all inequality, and so set the stage for centuries of attacks on the capitalist system. Rousseau's earnest discourse was followed a century later by Karl Marx's Capital, that vastly influential (though unreadable) fantasy of a post-capitalist utopia. Ever since, Marxists have been asserting their demand for the equality of earnings and the abolition of the capitalist system. Paradoxically, those cries for universal equality seem to have increased since the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991. There was a bow to Marx in Pope Francis's recent remarks on the exploitation of illegal immigrants. Certainly, Francis was correct in calling for an end to the violence and exploitation of human trafficking, but he followed this point up with the pronouncement that "[t]he flow of capital cannot decide the flow and life of people." That was an odd remark, since for thousands of years capital in its various forms has done just that. The reality is that the flow of capital does decide much of people's lives, and it is good that it does. In the absence of the capitalist system, the world would be cast back into the darkness of a static economy of subsistence farming. There would be no shelter except hovels of mud or sticks, no clothing except for the most primitive hides and home-woven cloth, no food except for what one could produce for oneself and the little that one could store for winter. There would also be no security against one's enemies except for the arms one could fashion from stone and wood. This seems to be the world that some of the more radical anti-capitalists wish to return to. Even Bernie Sanders, with his socialist platform of much higher taxes and greater equality, would restrain capitalism to such an extent that growth would slow. The cost of Sen. Sanders's proposals, estimated at $18 trillion, would put the economy into a permanent state of stagnation resembling what prevails in much of democratic socialist Europe. Youth unemployment in Italy now stands at 46%. The major difference between Italy and the U.S., other than a preponderance of scooters and a cadre of bronzed designers such as Giorgio Armani, is America's commitment to capitalism. Democratic socialism would turn America into another Italy (absent the Vespas and high-end designers). The Sanders campaign appeals to the perennial idealism of the young, which can be forgiven, but also to their ignorance, which cannot. Bernie's support among millennials suggests that the young have little understanding of economic systems and even less knowledge of the past. They seem entirely unaware of horrific record of communism in Russia, China, North Korea, Cuba, Cambodia, and dozens of other countries. Hundreds of millions of people died violently under these regimes, and billions of others suffered poverty and hunger. To ignore this history is not merely naive; it is callous. None of those human beings who suffered under communism should ever be forgotten. Hillary Clinton's attacks on Wall Street and "big corporations" are another matter. With the Clintons' estimated net worth of $111 million, Hillary's bemoaning income inequality seems fraudulent and calculated. The idea that "dead broke" Hillary is "fighting for us," as she everywhere proclaims, is like Nero saying he was the firefighter's best friend. Before it's over, Hillary will be offering more than $18 trillion in free benefits, just to top her Democratic rival. Yet of the two candidates, Hillary is the less dangerous. One feels that she will do and say anything to get elected and re-elected but that she has no radical attachment to Marxism or any other set of values. Opportunism does not count. What Hillary lacks is a positive appreciation for the crucial role of capitalism in American life. She is much closer to Sanders and to Pope Francis than she is to the ideal of rugged individualism that built our great country. Her platform is a watered down, less costly, but still ruinous version of Sanders socialism. Like Francis, she seems to believe that "the flow of capital cannot decide the flow and life of people." But with a total of nearly $200 million raised for her campaign, it's not likely she will go very far to restrain that flow of capital if elected. She'll just see that more of it flows into her re-election campaign. What Francis, Sanders, and Clinton all lack is an appreciation for the greatness of capitalism and an understanding of just how destructive socialism has been everywhere it has been tried. Even as Pope Francis was delivering his remarks near the U.S.-Mexico border, the Mexican people were continuing to benefit from the flow of capital much of it from the U.S. to Mexico in the form of business investment. Since 1969, Mexican per capita income has risen from $3,300 in 1961 to $8,626 in 2014 (in 2014 dollars). The flow of capital has made this possible. Absent this investment of capital, Mexico would still be a virtual slave empire, its economy controlled by a handful of wealthy landowners, as it was in the 19th century. Sanders, Clinton, and Francis, each in his or her own way, continue to argue against capitalism and for an egalitarian system that resembles the socialist tyranny of the past. When America's largest demographic cohort identifies overwhelmingly with a self-described socialist, our future as a capitalist republic is at risk. One can only hope that the current mania for income equality will fade and the world will get back down to the serious business of investing, producing, and reaping the rewards of capitalism. Jeffrey Folks is the author of many books and articles on American culture including Heartland of the Imagination (2011). What would William F. Buckley do? Conservative icon William Buckley promulgated what has become known as the Buckley rule: Nominate the most conservative candidate who is electable. Among the current candidates the only one who passes that test is Marco Rubio. Donald Trump and some in the media have tried to characterize Marco Rubio as the establishment candidate. How does that square with reality? Recall that the election of Rubio was hailed as a Tea Party hero when he knocked off the serial party-shifter and establishment candidate Charlie Crist. Has he retained his conservative credentials since being elected? As Jim Geraghty wrote in late December, Marco Rubio is plenty conservative and has an indisputably conservative record as a senator : This is a man who has a lifetime ACU rating of 98 out of 100. A man who has a perfect rating from the NRA in the U.S. Senate. A man who earned scores of 100 in 2014, 100 in 2013, 71 in 2012, and 100 in 2011 from the Family Research Council. A Taxpayer Super Hero with a lifetime rating of 95 from Citizens Against Government Waste. A man Club for Growth president David McIntosh called a complete pro-growth, free-market, limited-government conservative. Across the board, Rubios stances, policy proposals, and rhetoric fall squarely within the bounds of traditional conservatism. Rubios the guy who earned a 100 from National Right to Life in two straight cycles, and a zero rating from NARAL. He supports an abortion ban after 20 weeks, opposes exceptions for rape and incest (although hes voted for legislation that includes those exceptions), and opposes embryonic stem-cell research. In the first Republican debate he declared, Future generations will look back at this history of our country and call us barbarians for murdering millions of babies who we never gave them a chance to live. Rubio opposes gay marriage and has said that we are at the waters edge of the argument that mainstream Christian teaching is hate speech. Today weve reached the point in our society where if you do not support same-sex marriage you are labeled a homophobe and a hater. He recorded robo-calls for the National Organization for Marriage. Since 2010, Rubio has proposed freezing government spending for everything but defense and veterans care at 2008 levels. He supports a balanced-budget amendment to the Constitution and the line-item veto. He voted against funding for the Export-Import Bank, even though Florida receives the second-largest amount of money from the bank. His initial tax-reform plan, co-authored with Utah senator Mike Lee, cuts the corporate tax rate to 25 percent and would reduce the current seven brackets to two: a 15 percent rate for individuals and a 35 percent rate for families. (Rubio later adjusted it to create a 25 percent tax bracket for couples making between $150,000 and $300,000.) It creates a new $2,500-per-child tax credit. Conservatives disagree about the best way to simplify the tax code and reduce the tax burden on Americans, but its hard to dispute that changes such as these would move the system in the right direction. He wants to create a tax credit for companies that donate to nonprofits that give K12 tuition scholarships to poor students. In 2013, he declared that Common Core is increasingly being used by the Obama Administration to turn the Department of Education into what is effectively a national school board. He thinks children should be taught both theistic creation and evolution. On Obamacare, Rubio was the one who made the risk-corridor insurer bailout an issue, starting in 2013, which led to Congresss enacting limits on how much taxpayer money insurers could be given to cover losses related to the newly insured. Insurance companies that spent small fortunes lobbying for the bill and fighting its opponents are now griping that theyre getting a bad deal and the law may eventually become unworkable for them. If Obamacare is eventually replaced, Rubio will have played a big role in making it happen. This is just a partial list -- believe it or not -- of Rubios bona fides when it comes to conservatism. Geraghty has a far more comprehensive list that justifies the title of his column (while addressing Rubios contentious issue with immigration -- that , even in the worst possible light, is more conservative than Trumps history -- see below). People who have a long and sterling record of being conservatives, including Rush Limbaugh (who recently characterized Rubio as a disciple of Reagan and a full-throated conservative ), call Rubio a conservative. And Donald Trump; where is he on the political spectrum? How is his record? What is he today? More importantly what has he been for decades? Trump the Democrat. Or socialist? Actually, let Trump answer that question. In December 2004, he told CNNs Wolf Blitzer that I probably identify more as a Democrat. His record since then certainly reflects those views, as his actions and opinions fall squarely within those of a liberal Democrat -- that is, until he decided to run as a Republican when he made the shape-shifting superpowers of X-Men look like childs play. When journalists ask that silly question regarding what superpowers someone wished they had, Trumps answer would be a boastful I already have a superpower: I can shape-shift. Actually he already has answered that very question when he admitted that I am capable of changing to anything I want to change to. Why would any conservative-or American-support such an inauthentic and phony candidate? As I wrote, he has compiled a long record indistinguishable from those of a very liberal Democrat. He is pro-gun control, has long provided the financial firepower for the likes of Harry Reid, Nancy Pelosi, Chuck Schumer and Hillary Clinton --the latter of whom he has heavily praised in the past (think that praise wont be recycled should he become the GOP candidate?). He supports the abuse of eminent domain to reward businessmen; he is and always has been a crony capitalist , and the ultimate insider as Kimberly Strassel recently wrote. He has supported amnesty and a pathway for citizenship for illegal immigrants, and has profited by hiring them. He advocates for higher taxes. He wont touch entitlement reform, perhaps our most serious fiscal threat. He has supported abortion for years. He has supported -- and still does on steroids -- nationalized health care. (TrumpCare? He does enjoy pasting his name on everything, including plenty of schlock). And Trump has a long history of other actions and views that are far more revealing than his own putative (and phony) conversion on the way to becoming the GOP nominee. Trump was recently asked a similar question as that posed to him by Blitzer back in 2004 and his answer was again quite revealing, at least to those willing to see through his extreme makeover (that is the television show Trump should star in). MSNBC anchor Mika Brzezinski described a candidate who holds a host of liberal views and Donald was cued to answer which candidate fit that profile? His answer was, of course, Donald Trump. Brzezinski said she had been describing socialist Bernie Sanders. Even Trump cant tell the differences between himself and a socialist. He certainly is not a conservative, as a large list of actual conservatives have attested to in a recent issue of National Review. Trump The Con Man Is it any wonder that Rubio has recently taken to describing Trump as a con man; he was not the first nor will he be the last. Dear Reader, you may find yourself doing the same, and find it is too late. As is true of many con men, Trump victimizes the little guy. Trumps history has left thousands of victims who call Trump a con man (google Trump University and lawsuit or watch this ad of victim testimonials; the Democrats cannot wait to run their own versions). As is true of most con men, Trump has a rap sheet of victims of his various schemes (see my column, Trump screws everyone but himself). They include senior citizens, John Q public, thousands of employees laid off when he threw the slew of his business ventures into bankruptcy to avoid personal responsibility (by the time Democrats get done with him Mitt Romney will look like Mother Teresa); American workers who would gladly have taken jobs that he filled with illegal immigrants that he could hire on the cheap; business partners screwed by him over the years (a good partial summery is here); buyers of his schlock who got a raw deal when trusting him. Trump, would call them losers, no doubt. A few years ago, Wayne Barrett wrote a column for The Daily Beast. Inside Donald Trumps Empire: Why He Didnt Run for President in 2012 that will be grist for Democratic operatives should Trump be the nominee. Undoubtedly they have servers filled with research and, like their handmaidens in the mainstream media, are merely holding their firepower for the general election when Trump will be hit with a veritable onslaught of attacks that will be more effective than they were when the same strategy was used against Romney, because they have the virtue of being not only far more numerous but actually being truthful. There are many thousands of aggrieved victims who have trusted Trump -- you may very well be meeting them in the months ahead and may will count yourself amongst them should Trump become the Republican nominee for President. Rubio, The Con Man, and Electability Hillary Clinton, the likely Democratic nominee for President, soundly defeats Donald Trump in every head to head poll taken since May of last year. These figures will only worsen for Trump when his true history is revealed and publicized by operatives and Democrats who no doubt are salivating at the prospect of facing him in the general election. Imagine his own sound bites about women, minorities, and overweight people (he attacks critics by taunting that they have to return home to 400 pound wives) being gleefully and continually recycled by Democrats in the months ahead. He throws out insults and not ideas. Rubio says he is more electable than both Trump and Clinton. Michael Barone agrees, writing two weeks ago (before Jeb Bush dropped out): In the RealClearPolitics average of recent polls, he leads Clinton 48 to 43 percent; Cruz leads Clinton 46 percent to 45 percent; and Jeb Bush and Donald Trump both trail Clinton with 43 percent to her 46 percent. In addition, in polls going back to September, Rubio runs perceptibly better than others in most target states better than Cruz in Florida and better than both Cruz and Trump in Virginia, Colorado, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, and Iowa. Rubio leads in states that would collectively give him more than 270 electoral votes Donald Trump has the highest unfavorable rating ever recorded among presidential aspirants in American history. Hispanics hold a highly unfavorable view of him and while they may not matter in early primary states their votes can and will swing state elections in the general election (his victory lap after the Nevada primary regarding Hispanic support was wrong). Donald Trump at the top of the ticket will hand Democrats down the ticket victory after victory. Rubio, by contrast, can sell conservatism and expand the base in ways that will defeat Democrats for years to come up and down the ticket . There are reasons Marco Rubio has been called the Democrats worst nightmare. Donald Trump is their dream come true. Are primary voters going to make Democrats day for them come November? Follow the Buckley rule; follow in Reagans giant footsteps. After seven years of Barack Obama, the power of the president of the United States has expanded far beyond what was ever envisioned by the founding fathers. As was the case with Obama, it is dangerous to choose a president based solely on platitudes and personality. Finding out who these candidates really are in terms of not only policy positions but personal traits is critical. Fortunately, as this chaotic Republican primary season marches on, just who the remaining candidates are is coming into clearer focus. The biggest enigma of all has been Donald Trump, as he has vaulted to the top of the Republican pyramid based on exploiting and tapping into the anger of a plurality of the primary voters to date. However, a picture has begun to emerge that indicates he is a closet statist with authoritarian tendencies. Statism is the belief that the state should either control outright or determine the course of economic and social policy for a nation. Socialism and fascism are variants of statism. Some notable examples of American presidents that were proponents of this philosophy are Woodrow Wilson, Franklin Roosevelt and Barack Obama. In this election cycle both Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton are openly statist. On the other hand, Donald Trump has, at times, attempted to present himself as a staunch conservative opposed to statist philosophies; however, there have been numerous occasions when his statist leanings come to the fore. Nonetheless, based on the entirety of his adult life (nearly fifty years) and many recent actions and pronouncements, Donald Trump seems to resemble a closet statist who believes the government should control and determine the course of commerce, finance, manufacturing, agriculture and the media. In a recent speech in New Hampshire, Trump claimed he would control the pharmaceutical companies by setting drug prices; he would severely sanction (via taxes and tariffs) any American company that moves jobs overseas, thus forcing them to toe to his blueprint for them; and he would impose restrictions on oil and insurance companies that, in his view, restrict competition. On other occasions he has parroted Bernie Sanders in attacking and committing to oversee Wall Street through the power of taxation and regulation. He has often expressed his desire for government controlled and financed health care. He is fine with, and has used, the coercive government power of eminent domain to benefit his bottom line and to intimidate his business adversaries. In keeping with this predilection for statism, Trump has said he would unilaterally act and issue executive orders if Congress did not act on a matter he thought serious -- but that he would issue much better ones than Barack Obama. The day after the Houston Republican Debate, Trump announced that he would change the libel laws, and thus the Constitution, so he can sue those who say things he doesnt like. This reflects his inner desire to exert control over the media and society. Despite his protestations to the contrary and never-ending vacillations on issues and policies, there is little difference between Bernie Sanders, Hillary Clinton or Donald Trump. However, unlike the Democratic Party contenders, when these beliefs are combined with someone with a clinical case of narcissism, whose entire life has been totally centered upon promoting himself, and who now acts as if he is preordained to be elected president, the potential danger to the country becomes profound. In every interview the conversation invariably evolves into being about him and how great he is. He has never to my knowledge been able to accept any criticism with grace and dignity; rather he has invariably lashed out with either crude personal attacks or threatening and often pursuing legal, personal or financial intimidation. He cannot accept failure; instead it is always the fault of others. He revels in and expects adulation befitting a cult leader and he seems to do or say anything to not only foster this status but to win at all costs. While not directly comparing Donald Trump to the despots of the past century, anyone with these character attributes who also believes in statism cannot be trusted with the fate of the nation in his hands. In todays America the power of the presidency has expanded by geometric proportions. Anyone that assumes the office has the IRS, the EPA, The Justice Department, Homeland Security and NSA, among other agencies at his or her disposal, to intimidate and control the citizenry. The United States already has fallen to a ranking of a dismal 31st among all the nations of the world in personal freedom. It could be an unmitigated to disaster to turn over control of the government to someone with Trumps tendencies. Further, when Obama exits the scene, he will leave Americas relationship with the rest of the world in shambles. Trump does not have the temperament to deal with these issues without his ego intervening and making matters worse. However, there is an alternative to Donald Trump: Ted Cruz -- a true constitutional conservative. Ted Cruz by temperament, experience and accomplishments is well qualified to be the next president. This nation is at the point of no return and in order to avoid the abyss over the horizon it must reverse course by returning to the basis of its founding: individual liberty, opportunity and limited government as expounded in the Constitution. Ted Cruz, as Rush Limbaugh has pointed out, is the closest candidate to Ronald Reagan we will see in our lifetime and in my opinion the best candidate to oversee this course correction. Unlike previous election cycles the American people do not have to settle for the least of two evils in choosing a Republican nominee. There is a stark difference between Trump and Cruz. Will be it statism and megalomania or a return to individual freedom and opportunity? In 1930, the British Daily Mirror issued a weather report, "Fog in the Channel, Continent is isolated." Britain is an island nation, with no borders except the sea. It has not been invaded by foreign troops on the ground since 1066, nor has it had or claimed possessions on the European content since 1558, when Calais was lost, though the 2.6 square miles of Gibraltar are still British territory. This island nation also until the 20th century ruled half the world, the largest empire in history, on which the "sun never sets." Britain was both the workshop of the world and its global power. Karl Marx in his Communist Manifesto of 1848 saluted the country, which, in addition to being the leading capitalist power, "has accomplished wonders far surpassing Egyptian pyramids, Roman aqueducts, and Gothic cathedrals." Memories of Britain's greatness are still voiced every year at the opening of the Proms Musical Festival in London. The orchestra plays the 18th-century song Rule Britannia, a song about power, with its regal sentiment that, "Britons never, never, never shall be slaves." No one is suggesting that Britons are slaves because of the British connection with the European Union, but the political struggle has now been intensified between those Britons wanting to remain in the EU and those who want exit (Brexit). The most recent poll shows that 51 percent of the British favor remaining while 39 percent want Brexit, and 10 percent don't know. The physical isolation of Britain and memories and echoes of its past greatness are at the heart of the ongoing relationship, with its complicated economic and political factors now even more difficult because of the migration problem among Britain and the 27 other nations of the European Union. Since January 1973, when Britain joined what was then called the European Economic Community, which led in 1993 to the EU, and ended its preferential ties with its former colonies, it has been a member of the enormous common single market of 500 million in Europe with free movement of goods and people. However, there has been constant criticism of British membership of the EU. A referendum in 1975 voted in favor of remaining. In January 2013, Prime Minister David Cameron, facing a political challenge by UKIP at the forthcoming election, promised to put the question of Britain's membership to the people by another referendum. He has been faced with a host of problems: division within his political Conservative party and within his own Cabinet, including Michael Gove, minister for justice and close personal friend, and his political rival Boris Johnson, mayor of London, and strong differences with some of the EU countries and European officials, like Jean-Claude Juncker, EU president, and Donald Tusk, president of the European Council. Cameron said he would seek from EU members a "new settlement" for Britain and discuss concessions from Brussels. After prolonged discussion and all-night negotiation on February 19, 2016, a deal was reached between Britain and the other 27 members of the EU. It was a compromise, dealing with some difficult and detailed issues but omitting the general one of the exact future of the EU. The detailed issues do not concern the United States in any real way, but the general issue of the nature and destiny of the EU, and its relationship with the U.S., does. The deal will become the basis of a referendum to be held on June 23, 2016: should Britain remain a member of the EU or leave it? There are two crucial issues. Has membership of the EU, open and competitive, helped or hindered the British? And there is the question of the sovereignty of Britain and the likelihood or unlikelihood of an "ever closer union" of Europe. On the first issue, the set of economic issues, any definitive answer is arguable. Britain lagged behind France, Germany, and Italy, the founding members of the EEC, but for the last 40 years its GDP per capita has grown faster. Does Britain give more than it gets? Figures are not easy to assess, but critics of EU membership estimate that being a member costs Britain more than 20 billion a year. In return, it gets 4.5 billion in aid and agricultural subsidies, and the private sector gets about 1.5 billion. Trade liberalization improves competition and has increased growth. The U.K. is the world's fifth largest economy, and the EU is its second. The EU imports 45 percent of British exports and accounts for more than half of British imports. At the same time, Britain is the least dependent country in the EU for export revenue to EU countries. There is disagreement on the impact of the EU on British jobs. Some argue, and others disagree, that leaving the EU will cost 3 million jobs, those associated with exports and services to other EU countries. Immigration has not added much to British prosperity, though it has benefited the migrant workers. Curiously, in the negotiations in February, much of the discussion and the conclusion concerned work benefits, migrant welfare benefits, maintaining the pound and not joining the Eurozone, and tax credits for migrants and benefits for children of EU workers. On balance, Britain has benefited from openness to world markets and economic dynamism. Leaving the EU would jeopardize the gains Britain has made. At the same time, Brussels favors a large EU budget and free movement within the EU, while Cameron wants to cut spending and to discourage Polish workers from entering the U.K. The crucial hanging issues are whether the EU has reduced British sovereignty and whether Brexit will restore it. And has it helped British security? The issue has overtones for American politics. The EU its political apparatus, its large bureaucracy, its judicial system attempts to centralize power in Brussels, which has led to economic mismanagement and problems with dealing with immigration from the Middle East. Britain has challenged a number of those Brussels policies. Nevertheless, Cameron's argument is that leaving the EU would be a dangerous thing in an uncertain world and that the U.K. will have more influence on security issues because of EU cooperation on issues such as crime, cyber-attacks, and terrorism. The problem with this is that the EU has not been capable of agreeing on an effective foreign policy. For the British nation, there are pressing concerns that may arise on the result of the referendum. One is that the Conservative government may fall. Another is that if Brexit wins, Scotland may break away from Britain and vote for independence because it is pro-EU. Another is that other EU countries may want concessions from any general EU agreement. Immigration remains a problem, increasingly difficult, now that countries are raising barriers against migrants from the south. Above all, there is the general problem. Cameron succeeded in getting a commitment that Britain will not be part of the EU objective of an "ever closer union," and that some limits will be imposed on free movement. The conclusion for American politicians to consider is that it is the better part of wisdom for Britain to remain now that the EU will not compel all member states to aim for a common destination. Britain is not committed to further political integration into the European Union. It will keep its strong relationship with the United States. As Barack Obama finishes his final year, his attorney general, in all likelihood, will execute the greatest instance of prosecutorial discretion in the history or our nation. Prosecutorial discretion refers to the fact that under American law, government prosecuting attorneys have nearly absolute powers. A prosecuting attorney has power on various matters including those relating to choosing whether or not to bring criminal charges, deciding the nature of charges, plea bargaining and sentence recommendation. This discretion of the prosecuting attorney is called prosecutorial discretion. Prosecutorial discretion has also been described as a type of legal triage. When the ability or capacity to prosecute is curtailed or restricted, the cases that are the most egregious are moved to the top the list, and those less so are dismissed, thus the discretion. (In traffic court, there are ten speeders and only the capacity to prosecute five. Those over the speed limit to the greatest degree are prosecuted.) Of late, prosecutorial discretion is in high use within the illegal immigration crisis regarding the limited numbers of courts and judges. But what indeed is required is reasoning and legal ground to employ the discretion. As time passes, as the Democrat nominating convention nears, the reason that eventually will be employed for this discretion gains weight. Loretta Lynch has already broken the seal on her foray into the morass of prosecutorial discretion. She dismissed the IRS investigation. Justice Department officials used prosecutorial discretion to shelter former IRS official Lois Lerner from a grand jury after she was held in contempt of Congress. I believe that in the exercise of prosecutorial discretion, the matter was handled and was resolved, Attorney General Loretta Lynch told the House Judiciary Committee[.] Lerner is just the beginning. The IRS dismissal, large enough on its own scale and importance, will be but a side event in this attorney generals career. For the longer the Hillary email scandal plays out, the more protracted the discovery and analysis by the FBI, and the deeper into the campaigning and nomination process we go, the less likely any indictment of Ms. Clinton. It will likely involve a discretionary event by Loretta Lynch. The more Hillary becomes the likely nominee, the greater the political aspects of the FBIs work. To now dethrone the Democrat nominee with an indictment is much more difficult than if it had been done after the Iowa caucus. And the closer we get to the convention, the more distasteful and difficult any action against Hillary. Just as Bill Clintons lying to a grand jury could not bring impeachment, for it would be too difficult for the country, we might just have his wife creating a very similar difficulty for the country. What would it say of our system, our country? will be the mantra if she is indicted at the 11th hour. The compliant media will assist in developing such reasoning and afford Loretta Lynch her justification for prosecutorial discretion and a dismissing of any charges that might prohibit Hillary from further campaigning or serving as president. Hillarys popularity and the no harm, no foul argument will be used. And that is only if Mr. Comey goes the distance. Brace yourself. Back in December 2014, President Obama started a new relationship with the Cuban dictatorship. It was based on the idea that we had to try something different. How does that look now? Let's see: 1) The "let's try something different" argument was flawed. It was the Cuban government, not the U.S., that refused to reach out. President Carter almost re-established diplomatic relations with Cuba but pulled back when Castro sent Cuban troops into Africa. President Clinton was looking at it until the Cuban government shot down four U.S. citizens over the Florida Straits in 1996. There were talks in 1982 under President Reagan. Channels were open under other administrations, too. It is untrue that the U.S. refused to talk to Cuba. It was the Castro regime that refused to change. 2) The people in Cuba are not buying "hope and change." They want out, as we see from news reports: Eight-year-old Vanesa Amador stands patiently on a bridge that joins Mexico and the United States. She is feet away from a country she admits she knows nothing about but has strong feelings for. "The United States is the best country in the whole world," she says, smiling.Vanesa and her mother, Mayra, are part of a group of about 120 Cubans who made a long journey through several Latin American countries before boarding a charter plane in Costa Rica to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, the border town with Laredo, Texas. The number of Cubans entering the United States nearly doubled last year, compared with the year before. That trend shows no signs of slowing. More Cubans are coming to the United States because they fear that a thaw in U.S.-Cuban relations will end a longstanding policy granting legal status to any Cuban national who reaches dry land in the United States. The Obama administration made some big mistakes in opening this new relationship with Cuba: 1) It did not consult with Congress. It would have been easier to work with Cuba under a bipartisan plan that called for this in exchange for that. For example, we open the embassy if you provide us a plan to take care of U.S. citizens who had their property stolen. Or we will allow more investment in Cuba if you hold elections or tolerate a free press. Keeping Congress out makes it more difficult to lift the embargo. 2) No one realized in the Obama administration that opening an embassy in Cuba would encourage many to leave to take advantage of the refugee status that Cubans have enjoyed. This is a "refugee" problem that the Obama administration does not need on top of kids showing on the border or Middle East refugees. So where are we now? We have an embassy in Cuba, but people are still trying to leave the island, and repression has gotten worse. Didn't anyone in the White House think of this? P.S. You can listen to my show (Canto Talk) and follow me on Twitter. The mainstream media, apparently now believing in the inevitability of a Trump nomination, are beginning their demolition efforts. Even though Bernie Sanders has never been asked to disavow the support of the Communist Party USA, Donald Trump is being asked to repudiate a radio endorsement by David Duke of the KKK. Bloody and violent and hate-filled though the KKK may be, its record is nothing compared to the toll communism has taken on humanity. And while Sanders honeymooned in the communist USSR, so far as I know, Trump has never visited anything related to the KKK. But that did not stop the media from trying to hang the Klan around Trumps neck. He had already disavowed the support of KKK leader David Duke on Friday... As I stated at the press conference on Friday regarding David Duke- I disavow. pic.twitter.com/OIXFKPUlz2 Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 28, 2016 ...when CNNs Jake Tapper pressed him Sunday on State of the Nation to repeat his disavowal. For reasons I cannot grasp, Trump, who has bragged about his memory, stated: "Honestly, I don't know David Duke. I don't believe I've ever met him. I'm pretty sure I didn't meet him, and I just don't know anything about him." This morning on the Today Show, Trump claimed that he was the victim of a faulty earpiece. Donald Trump tells TODAY's Matt Lauer and Savannah Guthrie he's "disavowed" former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke and blamed a "very bad earpiece" for his earlier inability to repeatedly repudiate the group. Trump claimed he believed CNN anchor Jake Tapper was asking him about "various groups" and not just the KKK during a Sunday interview. I'm sitting in a house in Florida, with a very bad earpiece that they gave me, and you could hardly hear what he was saying," he said. "What I heard was 'various groups.' And I don't mind disavowing anybody and I disavowed David Duke." It was a bad mistake for Trump to retreat to a posture of not knowing about Duke. But this media firestorm underway to imply he is a white supremacist is at least as disgusting as his error in speaking during a long-distance interview. Watching his definitive statement Friday, there is no need beyond harassment to have brought up the subject again. So much blame to go around. As we slog through increasingly vitriolic and repetitive debates, there is the ever present follow-up question: who won? Of course, for more definitive answers on winners and losers, there are primary results. But the real winner these days has no podium on the debate stage and no name on the ballot. Nor is the winner the topic of a single polling query. The winner is stealth jihad in the form of the Muslim Brotherhood. Every arm of government (as well as other major institutions) has been infiltrated by the Muslim Brotherhood a terror organization weve yet to identify as such and one that operates through countless front groups. Discover the Networks reports that the Muslim Brotherhood was emulating the Communist Party tactic of creating interlocking front groups during the Cold War in order to confuse its enemies and make it more difficult to combat. The Muslim Brotherhood has vowed to destroy us from within, and its operatives have set about doing that very thing. But few talk about it. And heaven forbid that it be a debate question. Apparently its taboo to acknowledge that a stealth war is being waged against us. As long as the enemy lives within, unchecked (no less legitimized), barely spoken of, with no action to destroy it, we havent got a prayer. So as we are inundated with chatter about polls, debates, and primaries, the Muslim Brotherhood works around the clock, destroying this nation as it goes. They are the winners this election season. And as far as I can tell, there is no reason to believe they wont continue to win (as has now become a mantra). For those who want to learn more about the Muslim Brotherhoods plan for our demise, the Center for Security Policy has published a small paperback translation thats available online. Here is the overview at Amazon on The Explanatory Memorandum: From the Archives of the Muslim Brotherhood in America: In August of 2004, an alert Maryland Transportation Authority Police officer observed a woman wearing traditional Islamic garb videotaping the support structures of the Chesapeake Bay Bridge, and conducted a traffic stop. The driver was Ismail Elbarasse and detained on an outstanding material witness warrant issued in Chicago in connection with fundraising for Hamas. The FBIs Washington Field Office subsequently executed a search warrant on Elbarasses residence in Annandale, Virginia. In the basement of his home, a hidden sub-basement was found; it revealed over 80 banker boxes of the archives of the Muslim Brotherhood in North America. One of the most important of these documents made public to date was entered into evidence during the Holy Land Foundation trial. It amounted to the Muslim Brotherhoods strategic plan for the United States and was entitled, An Explanatory Memorandum: On the General Strategic Goal for the Group in North America. The Explanatory Memorandum was written in 1991 by a member of the Board of Directors for the Muslim Brotherhood in North America and senior Hamas leader named Mohammed Akram. It had been approved by the Brotherhoods Shura Council and Organizational Conference and was meant for internal review by the Brothers leadership in Egypt. It was certainly not intended for public consumption, particularly in the targeted society: the United States. For these reasons, the memo constitutes a Rosetta stone for the Muslim Brotherhood, its goals, modus operandi and infrastructure in America. It is arguably the single most important vehicle for understanding a secretive organization and should, therefore, be considered required reading for policy-makers and the public, alike. The document can also be downloaded as a PDF file here. Something to read during the next debate. Caroline Glick in the Jerusalem Post has speculated on the consequences for Israel of a Trump presidency plus or minus a British exit from the EU. Her points are good and can be expanded to more general applications. 1. Trump, by purist definitions, is not conservative, nor is he liberal or progressive. 2. He is an opportunist and not predictable. 3. He's not stupid. 4. He's not sound on economic or political policy. The good news is, he's not an ideologue (such as Cruz, or the much preferable Rand Paul). The bad news is that he has no coherent view of the world or this nation's role in it. One corollary of the four points above is that he may seek out and appoint clever, practiced, sound, well-educated people for positions of leadership within his administration, similar to FDR's Brain Trust. Another might be that he will be just another tin-horn dictator incoherently careening from one blunder to another so that neither we nor our allies nor our enemies will be able to predict what comes next. We can hope that he is a fast learner. And then there's Eisenhower's famous complaint that when he was a general he gave an order and things happened; but now that he was president, he gave an order and nothing happened. Hillary, of course, knows exactly what she is doing and quite a bit about how to go about it, is a conniving manipulating ideologue, and is therefore vastly more dangerous than Trump. If we were to choose an appropriate president, we wouldn't have to worry about all that. But that seems not even remotely possible. So let's just consider what little we do know about Trump's intentions: 1. Build a 1,200-mile extension to the 670-mile existing wall at the Mexican border. Vicente Fox has already said, in English, that Mexico is "not going to pay for that f****** wall." And that still leaves 1,290 miles of Pacific coast, 3,000 miles of Atlantic and Gulf coast, and 3,000 miles of Canadian border free for mostly unimpeded entry. Not to mention that "The Wall" will be more than a bit less impenetrable than Israel's, which is itself occasionally breached. 2. Start, or threaten to start, a trade war with China and possibly Mexico. Tariffs are notoriously bad for the initiating country as well as for its trading partners. The pros and cons of free trade have been debated, studied, and clarified for many years, and many experiments have confirmed theory. 3. Bar all Muslims from entry to this country; close mosques, at least those that endorse jihad el-asghar (That's the jihad where they kill us, not the one [el-akhbar] where they examine their consciences and resolve to do better.), and deny tax-exempt status to Islamic institutions. A decent argument can be made for this policy, since jihad is essentially a declaration of war, and all devout Muslims could be qualified as enemy combatants. But it is unconstitutional unless Islam can be redefined as a political rather than a religious organization, which though not unwarranted is not even remotely plausible. Wouldn't it be nice to be able to prosecute Islam under the RICO statutes? Even so, it's the religiously devout Muslim who is the threat, not the apathetic. And then, we know that the moderate Muslim occasionally turns murderously devout. 4. Deport all illegal immigrants in this country, whether with or without arrest histories. This would deal a serious blow to agriculture, at least in the West and the South, and impair the construction industry. A reasonable version of this, and indeed highly desirable, would be to deport any illegal convicted of any criminal offense, rather than incarcerating them here or, as often practiced, releasing them to the community, where they can re-offend, especially in sanctuary cities (the San Francisco murder). One possible plus: Reagan famously succeeded in his Strategic Defense Initiative strategy by subtly cultivating the image of "cowboy," raising the ante on the Soviets. But Trump may be much less subtle and much more convincing, on us and on others, with uncertain effects. During the 2012 Republican convention, I spent a day at the Saddlebrook Resort outside Tampa, where the Texas delegation was staying. Ron Paul had 20 of the states 155 delegates, and there were 20 alternates along for the ride. I had lunch with some of the Paulists and spoke with them afterwards. They were a likeable bunch, friendly (they were Texans, after all), bright, and well read. But they were, most of them, True Believers. Ron Paul was the messiah. I was told by one alternate that historians would some day rank their man with Washington, Jefferson, and Madison. They still also believed in the mantra Id been hearing from Paul fans for years that there was a great mass of potential supporters out there, but theyd been hoodwinked by the media, which imposed a news blackout on Paul. His delegates were never specific about the demographics of these latent libertarians. But they were folks who shared Rons mistrust of politicians and deeply resented the wastefulness of government spending and the regulations that cost them so much time and money and curtailed their natural rights. There were lots and lots of these freedom-loving, government- and Wall Street-hating types. The only problem was this vast army of disaffected Paul voters didnt exist. Texans knew Ron very well, and he got only 12% of the primary vote, to 69% for Mitt. The guy they saw as a saint others saw as a thin-lipped, humorless, tinfoil-hat ideologue. Its hard to imagine two politicians more unlike than Ron Paul and Donald Trump. But Donalds fans idolize their guy with the same fervor as the Paulists did theirs. He can do no wrong. And they also share the delusion that there are masses of voters out there who feel the same way but are being very quiet about it. Of course, they dont make the case that theres a media blackout on Trump only that these voters havent really given much thought yet to their candidate. White working-class, blue-collar Dems, whatever theyll come around. They wont. Trumps cult is at least three times the size of Pauls. But it maxes out below 30% nationally. Among GOP voters, in the most recent polls in the 12 Super Tuesday states, hes averaging 29.75%. Familiarity has bred contempt. Here are the net negatives on Trump from Gallup. Among those familiar with him, his net favorable ratings are only +30 among Republicans, -30 among independents, and -74 among Democrats. (As for favorable ratings among GOP voters which dont directly translate into votes, of course Cruz had a net 65, Rubio 59, and Carson 58.) Why do so many people despise Donald? He has a yuuuge ego, but also a fragile one. This is not an attractive combination. Last week, Mitt Romney asked all the candidates to release their recent tax records. Fine. Cruz and Rubio said they would. How did Donald respond? He said hes being audited for the last 12 years. Really? (Trump claims it was because of his strong Christian faith.) The IRS is still working on an audit from 12 years ago? But so what? He can still release his returns. Nothings stopping him. Then he said the returns tell you nothing. Nothing interesting there, folks; move on. Everythings in the unaudited financial statement. How about letting us decide? And then, inevitably, he attacked Mitt Romney. He went after him in his usual way: a demeaning, mocking personal attack. The Trump trademark. When Hugh Hewitt asked Donald a question he didnt like, Trump ridiculed Hughs ratings. When another candidate says something critical about him, he disses the candidates polling numbers. Bullies are attractive to people who have fragile egos themselves. Theyre not attractive to people who value civility, decency, and good manners. Ronald Reagan defended Americas security and restored prosperity. He came across as strong and principled. But those of us old enough to remember him know that he was at the same time genial, courteous, and thoughtful. He had a sense of irony. He never mocked or belittled anyone. He was never abusive and insulting. He didnt gloat or smirk. Personality matters. We learned that if we didnt know it already in 2008. Obama had no legislative accomplishments and offered no specifics about his policies. It was all about Hope and Change, and the fact that, as Joe Biden memorably put it, you got the first mainstream African-American who is articulate and bright and clean and a nice-looking guy. I mean, that's a storybook, man. In all the elections since Jimmy Carters 1976 win, the most likeable guy has won, whether hes been the most conservative candidate since World War II, like Reagan, or the most leftist, like Obama. Weve got someone in the White House now who lies, conceals records, and is incredibly thin-skinned. Do we want a nominal Republican who does the same? Obama concealed his unpleasant underside. Donald trumpets his. Of course, there are plenty of other reasons for conservatives to dislike Trump. But the bombast, the incoherence, the anger and abusiveness are by themselves yuuuge negatives. If Trump is the nominee, some conservatives will hold their nose and vote for him, given the alternative. But lots will sit the election out many more than did for Romney. Ironically, Trumps candidacy will be a boon for Ron Paul fans. The Libertarian Party could more than double its 2012 vote total. And Donald is not going pick up many independents or Dems, the way the candid, amiable, civilized Reagan did. The Shushtar Hydraulic System in the island city of Shushtar is a complex irrigation system that dates back to the time of the Achaemenid king Darius the Great in the 5th century BCE. Described by UNESCO as a masterpiece of creative genius, the Shushtar Hydraulic System involved the creation of a diversion canal on the river Karun to form a moat around the city, over which bridges and gates were built to keep away unwanted visitors. A system of subterranean channels called Ghanats connected the canals to the private reservoirs of houses, buildings and watermills. These tunnels supplied water for domestic use and irrigation, as well as to store and supply water during times of war when the main gates were closed. Although this complex system of irrigation degenerated during the 19th century, traces of the Ghanats can still be found in the crypts of some houses. Photo credit: Darafsh Kaviyani/Wikimedia While the Shushtar water system has its roots in the Achaemenid times, much of its renovation and expansion was done in the 3rd century AD during the time of the Sassanids. The workers were Roman soldiers captured by the Sassanid ruler Shapur I following a battle with the Roman Emperor Valerian. Using the captured forces, the Sassanid ordered the building of a vast irrigation system consisting of a canal and two dams to control the water flow. The Ab-i Gargar canal branches off the Karun and rejoins the main river 50 km downstream, creating an island called Mianab or "Paradise". Shushtar is located at its northern end while the rest was used for orchard plantations. The 500 meter long overflow dam located downstream over the Karun river is called Band-e Kaisar or Caesar's Dam, and was the key structure of the system responsible for retaining and diverting river water into the irrigation canals in the area. Another smaller barrage, the Band-e Mizan, was erected upstream to control the flow of water into the Ab-i Gargar canal. According to various historical texts, the entire Shushtar hydraulic complex was built in as little as three to seven years. The most interesting and tourist worthy part of the system are the spectacular cliffs from which water cascades into a downstream basin. It then enters the plain situated south of the city where it has enabled the planting of orchards and farming over an area of 40,000 hectares. The hydraulic system has served the area for thousands of years and was still in use as recently as a few decades ago when it began to fall into disrepair and was eventually abandoned. The blog Historical Iranian sites and people says that there were approximately 40 watermills constructed in the general area of the water falls although many of them have been destroyed with the passing of time and lack of maintenance. Nevertheless efforts have been made to make use of existing system. In 1933 on the northern side of the area, an electric company was founded and in 1955 on the west end, an ice factory was built. Today, the system has been replaced by several dams built in accordance with modern technological methods, the blog writes. As with the old system, these have served the purpose of controlling the river and storing its waters for irrigation, as well as the production of electricity today. Photo credit: Darafsh Kaviyani/Wikimedia Photo credit: Darafsh Kaviyani/Wikimedia Photo credit: Chris-45/Flickr Photo credit: persiantouring.com Photo credit: Siavash Salavatian/Panoramio Photo credit: Ninara/Flickr Photo credit: Ninara/Flickr Photo credit: persiantouring.com Photo credit: Adam Jones/Flickr Sources: UNESCO / Wikipedia / Historical Iranian sites and people The pungent odor and tangy taste of the Roquefort cheese, with its distinctive spots and veins of blue-green mold throughout, is not for everyone. But those who appreciate cheese swear its the best blue cheese in the world. While you may not agree, Roquefort is officially known as the king of cheeses. This particular cheese is produced in the tiny village of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, located amidst the high limestone plateaus of Causse du Larzac, in southern France, where erosion has made the mountain as hollow as cheese itself. Inside these dank and dark natural caves, where humidity stays above 90%, unpasteurized, whole ewe's milk is slowly ripened and molded into Roquefort cheese, following century-old methods. Photo credit: fuzyboy/Flickr The mold that gives Roquefort its distinctive character is a fungus called Penicillium roqueforti, that is found in the soil of the caves. Traditionally, the cheesemakers harvested it by leaving bread in the caves for six to eight weeks until it was consumed by the mold. The interior of the bread was then dried to produce a powder which was added to cheese curd. Nowadays, the spores are grown in laboratory, which allows for greater consistency ensuring that the three million wheels of cheese made each year are uniformly veined. Legend has it that the cheese was discovered when a young sphered, eating his lunch of bread and ewes' milk cheese, saw a beautiful maiden in the distance. Abandoning his meal in a nearby cave, he ran to meet her. Months later he happened to find his old lunch grown moldy inside and out. But the shepherd tasted it anyway, and Roquefort cheese was born. While the story of the sphered is probably a fable, the cheese might actually have been discovered by accident, when cheeses stored in caves developed mold. It is claimed that blue cheese is mentioned in literature as far back as AD 79, when the Roman author and naturalist, Pliny the Elder remarked upon its rich flavor. Roquefort cheese is still created in chilly, damp caves owned by only seven cheese-making companies, the largest of which is Societe, which supplies an estimated 70 percent of the worlds Roquefort. Societe holds several caves in the mountains and its facilities are open to tourists. Roquefort cheese. Photo credit: AP Photo credit: Manuel Huynh/Flickr Photo credit: Manuel Huynh/Flickr Photo credit: Manuel Huynh/Flickr Photo credit: discover.blog.tourisme-aveyron.com Photo credit: janeshortall-writerinfrance.blogspot.in Photo credit: www.parc-grands-causses.fr Sources: Wikipedia / France Today Mobile payment solutions are growing in both market presence and popularity, and customers already have quite a few such services to choose from. Their options are bound to increase in time, and more smartphone users around the world will have the ability to make payments using their handsets as services continue to expand their presence in more markets. In the case of Android Pay, Googles mobile payment solution, will apparently expand its reaches beyond US shores, and will become available in the UK at the end of March. Android Pay is a mobile payment solution developed by Google using technologies from Softcard and the foundations of Google Wallet. The service allows smartphone users to pair their credit cards with their handsets and use their devices for making transactions through NFC at point-of-sale terminals, as well as within Google applications. The Android Pay platform was first released in the US last September and remained limited to the US market ever since. However, the good news is that the search engine giant is planning to expand its service in other countries including Australia by the end of 2016. Thankfully, despite earlier reports suggesting that Android Pay might land in the UK sometime in the second quarter of the year, a fresh report from The Telegraph citing unnamed industry sources claims that Android Pay will actually go live in the United Kingdom at the end of March. At launch Android Pay will not be the only mobile payment service available in the UK. Apple Pay went live in the region in July 2015, and Samsung Pay is also planned to be launched in the UK sometime before the end of the first quarter. Advertisement According to analysis from UK-based research company Kantar Group, in December 2015, 51.9% of the UK mobile market was accounted for by Android devices, while iOS held 38.6% of the market. Judging by these figures alone, Android Pay seems to have the upper hand compared to Apple Pay or, at least, the service appears to be heading towards a successful debut in the UK. Then again, not all Android smartphones are compatible with Googles mobile payment solution, however roughly 70% of Android devices can run Android Pay and 700,000 or so merchant terminals supported the service at launch. The Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona is over, and Samsung now has two new flagship devices in their lineup. Were not here to talk about the Galaxy S7 and Galaxy S7 Edge though. its time to take a short break and pay some attention to other devices in Samsungs lineup. Samsung tends to release quite a few smartphones a year, but this Korea-based company is also in the tablet business. Samsung has released Galaxy Tab A and Galaxy Tab E tablets in the past, and next-gen products seem to be coming. Earlier this month, weve seen Galaxy Tab E 7.0 (2016) renders surface online, and the company has actually introduced the Galaxy Tab E 8.0 in Taiwan. The Galaxy Tab A 7.0 (2016) images surfaced earlier this month as well, and we have some new content to share with you now. If you take a look at the images in the gallery down below, youll get to see the Galaxy Tab E 7.0 (2016) and Galaxy Tab A 7.0 (2016) renders in both black and white color variants. These tablets will be Samsungs new mid-range tablet devices, and are actually expected to arrive fairly soon. The Galaxy Tab E 9.6 was introduced back in June last year, and it seems like Samsung is aiming to release a smaller variant of this tablet this time around. Galaxy Tab A 8.0 was also introduced last year, but that tablet was announced back in March. Advertisement Now, were not entirely sure when will Samsung introduce either of these devices, but you can expect them to arrive in the coming weeks. Samsung doesnt really have a set timeframe for releasing their low and mid-range tablets, so it could basically happen at any time, well just have to keep our eyes open and see what we get. As far as specs are concerned, we still dont have any info, but based on previous models, you can expect these two devices to sport mid-range specs, though the Galaxy Tab E will almost certainly be inferior to the Galaxy Tab A. Either way, stay tuned, well report back as soon as new information surfaces. Googles Project Loon is based around using balloons carrying networking equipment to be floated around 20,000 meters, or 65,000 feet, above the ground in the stratosphere and above commercial airliners and most air traffic. The balloons will be used to beam the signal down to earth using LTE frequencies and according to information from Google, a single balloon can provide coverage for an area around 25 miles in diameter. Google has successfully tested Project Loon technology in California, Brazil and New Zealand and is currently conducting tests in Sri Lanka. For India, it had wanted to test the networking technology by broadcasting at the the lower frequencies (700 or 800 MHz), because the lower the frequency, the further the signal will go and the greater the coverage. However, the Indian government had appointed a panel under the IT secretary and asked BSNL (Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited, a state-owned telecommunications business) to provide the necessary infrastructure for Googles testing. Unfortunately for Google, BSNL own spectrum is at the 2,500 MHz frequency point and not at the lower end of things. The latest is that the Indian government has asked Google to select a carrier as a partner for the testing process and an official said this on the subject: Google wants to test the Loon Project in expensive and scarce spectrum bands. It has been asked to partner with any telecom operator that can meet its requirement and then approach the government for testing Loon. If Google wishes to test the technology with BSNL, it must use BSNLs existing frequencies which (currently) means adopting the higher frequency, 2,500 MHz, part of the spectrum. And one potential stumbling block is that India has yet to start an auction for spectrum at the 700 MHz frequency point, but it is expected to be the most expensive available. The Indian telecommunications regulator, Trai, has suggested that this spectrum will reach Rs 11,485 crore per MHz and that a carrier will be required to buy at least 5 MHz. Advertisement Google have improved the networking technology incorporated into the solar powered Project Loon balloons; compared with the initial specification, a single balloon now offers ten times the capacity. However, it is unclear how well the technology will work at the higher frequencies, which are better suited to short range capacity boosting rather than longer ranged blanket coverage, which the Loon balloons provide. It is possible that Google will need to wait for the up and coming 700 MHz spectrum before selecting a carrier partner, and then reapproaching the Indian government for testing approval. Earlier this month, a newly-incorporated Indian company called Ringing Bells drew a lot of attention from large sections of the global media by claiming to have designed the most inexpensive smartphone ever. The smartphone, called the Freedom 251, will supposedly cost only Rs. 251 ($3.66) when launched, and have fairly decent hardware for the money. However, industry insiders remain skeptical about the companys ability to deliver on its lofty promises and many have even expressed serious concerns regarding the trustworthiness of the company management. Now comes the next chapter in this ongoing saga, as many media outlets in the country have been reporting over the weekend that Ringing Bells has started refunding the thirty odd thousand people who have already paid the requisite amount of Rs. 291 ($4.20), which includes Rs. 40 (60) shipping and handling. The payments gateway for the transaction is an Indian tech startup called PayU, who has already reassured everyone by announcing that the money is held in an escrow account which cannot be accessed by Ringing Bells till the devices are actually delivered to users starting this June, as promised. However, ostensibly to soothe the nerves of anxious customers, Ringing Bells has now apparently decided to refund all early-birds, with the companys Managing Director, Mr. Mohit Goel, announcing that in the future, the company will only entertain Cash-on-Delivery orders, whereby customers will be required to pay only upon receiving the product. Advertisement Ever since announcing the Freedom 251, Ringing Bells has got embroiled in a number of avoidable controversies, including allegations that it reportedly handed out re-branded Chinese smartphones (said to be the Adcom Ikon 4) to journalists as preliminary review units. Curiously, many media outlets even alleged that the company tried to crudely cover up the Adcom logo on those handsets with Wite-Out in trying to pass them off as its own prototypes! The company has also been recently accused by a third-party call-center operator of defaulting on payments and unlawfully terminating its contract. In related news, the company was scheduled to start shipping its first-ever smartphone, the Smart 101, from February 25th. That day has now come and gone, but the company is yet to ship out even a single handset to its customers. It will be interesting to see what happens next, but youve probably not heard the last of it just as yet. (ANSA) - Rome, February 29 - The arrival of a child via an American surrogate mother for former Puglia governor and leftwing Left, Ecology and Freedom (SEL) leader Nichi Vendola and his younger partner has fuelled a row in Italy over adoptions for members of the LGBT community. Tension over the issue of gays adopting children continued on Monday even though a provision that would have allowed homosexuals to adopt their partners' biological children was stripped from a bill regulating civil unions last week. Part of the reason that the issue has flared again was the birth in California at the weekend of Tobia Antonio, the child of Vendola and his 20-year-younger partner Ed Testa thanks to a surrogate mother. Northern League leader Matteo Salvini blasted Vendola, accusing him of "disgusting selfishness". Premier Matteo Renzi's centre-left Democratic Party (PD) is set to propose new legislation on adoptions, including those by gay parents, after the stepchild adoption provision was dropped to allow the civil unions bill to clear the Senate last week. But Interior Minister Angelino Alfano has said this would breach a pact that his centrist AP group reached with the PD to win its support. "The pact between us was clear," said Alfano, whose party is a junior partner in the ruling coalition. "Scrapping adoptions does not just go for this bill, but in general," added that minister, who last week said his party had stopped the civil unions bill being a "revolution against nature". "We would never have voted for the law if we'd been told that dropping stepchild adoption was provisional in view a new law. "We are absolutely intransigent on this". Renzi replied indirectly by saying that "the time of vetoes" to needed reforms - such as the civil unions bill now before the Lower House - is over. "I wish to tell the opposite extremes that the time when someone in Italy had veto rights (over reforms) is over," the centre-left premier wrote in his e-news. "We forged ahead with reforms, even when the majority told us to stop... by dint of confidence votes too, when necessary. We did not stop... in the face of the sacrosanct necessity of recognizing the rights of homosexual couples, because doing the opposite would have been uncivil". Vendola also got support from Lower House Speaker Laura Boldrini, also of SEL, who slammed the rightwing attacks, which included Maurizio Gasparri from Silvio Berlusconi's centre-right Forza Italia berating the "the Left's use of the vile (surrogate motherhood) method". "I heard coarse, vulgar comments - it's sordid to stoop so low," Boldrini said. "I wish (Vendola and Testa) all the best and I hope this attack on their choice will stop. Nobody can express such harsh opinions against a child that has been born". But top-selling Catholic weekly Famiglia Cristiana (Christian Family) also slammed Vendola. "The defender of the poor and the oppressed went abroad like a gentleman of means, orphaned a baby of its mother and eluded the (Italian) Constitution," the weekly wrote on its website. "Wasn't he supposed to be a leftist?" Vendola and Testa should be arrested for breaking an Italian law against surrogate motherhood as soon they get back to Italy, a Forza Italia MP said. "Surrogate motherhood is a crime and it is serious that an Italian politician should fly abroad in contempt of Italian laws, with impunity," said Basilio Catanoso. "If I were the interior minister I would immediately order the arrest of the couple on their return," he said. Vendola hit back at the furore caused by the boy's arrival. "There is no fascist-thug political vulgarity that can disturb the great joy that the birth of a baby causes," said Vendola, 57. He denied "hiring a womb" in a mercenary way, saying the woman who gave birth to the child "is an integral part of our family and will continue to be so". Vendola's former spokesman, journalist Vito Marinelli, told ANSA that Vendola "has become a symbol for the so many people who have this strong desire to be parents and find obstacles in their path towards realising their dream. "It's as if a gate has opened on an infinite horizon," Marinelli said. Tobia Antonio cannot be registered as the couple's son in Italy - at least until an adoptions law is introduced. The baby has been registered as the biological son of Testa in Canada, where the Italo-Canadian Testa, 38, has a valid passport. California is one of the few US states that allows surrogate motherhood in monetary as well as purely altruistic forms. One of the others is Texas. 'Lucrative' surrogate motherhood is also legal in India, South Africa, Russia, Georgia and Ukraine, as well as only Belgium in the EU. The altruistic form alone is legal in the UK, Sweden, Netherlands, Denmark, Australia as well as Canada and the other US states. The mother of the child was reported to be an American of Indonesian origin. (ANSA) - Rome, February 29 - Five people are dead after a wave of extreme weather hit many parts of Italy on Sunday, battering the south especially hard. Strong winds and torrential rain caused rivers to break their banks and knocked down trees. + The bad weather is expected to continue on Monday, with the regions of Liguria, Lombardia, Veneto, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Emilia-Romagna, Tuscany, Sardinia, Umbria, Lazio, Abruzzo and Molise on storm alert and schools in many areas closed. Rocco Montorro, a 51-year-old farmer, was killed when a huge eucalyptus tipped over by the wind crushed his car in Candinoni, near Gioia Tauro. Two other people died in similar circumstances in the province of Caserta. A 50-year-old man drowned after slipping into the River Tione in the province of Verona. Another person died when their car was swept into a river at Sant' Angelo in Pontano, in the province of Macerata. (ANSA) - Rome, February 29 - A wave of late-winter wind, rain and snow storms hit Italy overnight and on Monday, causing damage from fallen trees and rain in central Italy and the risk of flooding and avalanches in the north. In Rome and the surrounding areas, firefighters were sent out on more than 200 calls overnight due to high winds and heavy rain that caused numerous downed trees and resulting damage. In Naples winds reached speeds of 70 kilometres per hour and 40 traffic cops were called to manage traffic on roads that were blocked by fallen trees and debris throughout the city. Eighteen flights were cancelled yesterday at Naples' Capodichini airport and twelve flights were rerouted to other Italian airports, while in nearby Pozzuoli the mayor ordered all schools closed Monday. In the valleys near Bergamo snow continued to fall on Monday for the third day straight, with more than a metre of accumulation above 1,800 metres. Flood warnings went into effect Monday morning in Piacenza and the surrounding areas for the Arda torrent, a tributary of the Po River. Trentino authorities announced an avalanche risk level of 4 (strong) after heavy overnight snowfall. Meanwhile in the southern region of Puglia, heavy winds caused a tree to fall onto train tracks early Monday, which temporarily blocked regional trains near Barletta. (ANSA) - New York, February 29 - US Secretary of Defense Ash Carter said Monday that Italy, being "so close" to Libya, had "offered to take the lead" in the North African country and "we have already promised that we will strongly support them", according to Bloomberg. Carter stressed the international coalition will go into action once a Libyan government of national unity has been formed, "hopefully as soon as possible". Rome has agreed to US drones operating from its Sigonella base in Sicily and has pledged to play a key role in the coalition's action once the government is formed. (ANSA) - Taranto, February 29 - A Taranto preliminary hearings judge on Monday re-indicted 44 individuals and three companies - ILVA, Riva Fire and Riva Forni Elettrici - in the alleged environmental disaster caused in the Puglia city by the giant ILVA steelworks. The 44 include ILVA managers, politicians and businessmen. The case was sent back to the preliminary hearings stage on a technicality by the Taranto court of assizes. The first hearing has been set for May 17 at the court of assizes. The Assize Court of Taranto on December 9 annulled an order to stand trial for the 44 people, citing that the preliminary hearing record didn't include the name of the public defender for 10 defendants whose lawyers weren't present that day, while in the preliminary hearing judge's decision that name is present. Earlier this month nineteen bids for the troubled steelmaker were admitted to the due diligence phase. There had been, in fact, 29 expressions of interest in purchasing ILVA assets and affiliates. They included offers from Luxembourg-based steelmaker ArcelorMittal, Cremona-based steel manufacturer Arvedi Group, Milan-based steelmaker EUSIDER, and family-owned Marcegaglia Group steel processor. Extraordinary commissioners managing ILVA as the firm undergoes a massive environmental cleanup and financial turnaround project assessed the offers. State-controlled investment bank Cassa Depositi e Prestiti (CDP) filed an expression of interest. A court this year declared ILVA insolvent, with debt totalling nearly three billion euros. Migrants: Syrians reach Rome thanks to humanitarian corridor 93 refugees, 41 of them minors, landed in Fiumicino from Beirut (ANSAmed) - FIUMICINO, FEBRUARY 29 - A group of 93 Syrian refugees, of which 41 are minors coming from UNHCR refugee camps in Lebanon arrived this morning at 7 A.M from Beirut at the Roman airport of Fiumicino. They belong to 24 families originally from the towns of Homs, Idlib and Hama that, because of the vulnerability of their situation secured a humanitarian, territorially-restricted visa from the Italian Embassy in Lebanon. Accompanied by the Border Police to an area specifically dedicated to the handling of individual papers, including identification and finger-printing, the refugees will subsequently be transferred to different areas in Italy and shall be hosted by several reception centres. The aim is to provide them with all the assistance they shall need: from help with integration to language courses, handling of asylum requests and job training. The arrival of this group of refugees was the result of a pilot-project born of an agreement in mid December between the Italian Government, the Sant'Egidio Community, the Federation of Evangelical Churches in Italy and the Valdese Table which will welcome up to a thousand refugees in two years. (ANSAmed). French town Amboise celebrates 'Da Vinci Year' Artist spent last years there; calendar of events (by Chiara Rancati) (ANSAmed) - PARIS, FEBRUARY 29 - Leonardo da Vinci arrived at the Amboise castle in 1516 in the Loire region on the invitation of King Francis I. He was to spend the last three years of his life there. Six centuries later, the former chateau has been transformed into a museum dedicated to the Italian genius, with a line-up of events to celebrate it. The managers of the Amboise castle say that the town has always been proud of its ties with Italy, which were born in the early sixteenth century from the French king's passion for Italian culture, making it the ''favorite destination'' of many high-level Renaissance figures. This year, to celebrate the opening of the museum, it will be holding a series of events between the royal castle and the nearby Clos Luce residence, which was the last home of the Tuscan artist. Organizers say that the program will extend to 2019, the 600th anniversary of Da Vinci's death. Numerous shows will be held at the Amboise castle, beginning with the show for children 'Leonardo, the True Story of Vinci's Genius', which will be staged by the La Sensibile theater company on the artist's birthday, April 17. In May there will instead be the 'Feast of Paradise', an appointment inspired by Italian Renaissance feasts with street artists' performance, introductory workshops for music from the period and the chance to try typical dishes from that time. Theme-based historic revocations will be held in the streets of Amboise starting in July, culminating in the evening show 'The Prophecy of Amboise'. The Clos Luce residence will instead be dedicating a didactic show from June 18 to December 31 to the three masterpieces that Leonardo Da Vinci painted between its walls - including the 'Mona Lisa' - now kept in the Louvre. Though the Paris museum will not lend the paintings, the exhibition will discuss their crucial importance for the history of art and the fame of the Tuscan genius, reconstructing the route from the Loire Valley to the Ville Lumiere. The 11th Renaissance Music Festival will this year also have a program focusing on Da Vinci's work and the young. (ANSAmed). Jordan in talks with World Bank for a loan worth USD 500 mil As part of refugees-related aid programme (ANSAmed) - AMMAN, FEBRUARY 29 - Jordan is in advanced talks with the World Bank for a soft loan worth USD 500 million, as part of refugees related aid programme approved by the international community in London conference, officials said Monday. Discussions over terms of the loan and payment details are expected to be rubber stamped by both parties in the near future, said minister of planning and international cooperation Emad Fakhouri. He said that talks with the world bank will be continued in the coming few weeks and an agreement could be reached 'very soon.' Officials say the funds will be allocated for infrastructure projects including health and education. Jordan has been heavily relying on international aid including loans and donations in order to maintain its economy. Economists warn that over dependency on loans will place a massive pressure on the country's economy, with foreign debt currently standing at more than 80 percent of the GDP.(ANSAmed). 'Battle of the beards' rages in Israeli military Secular soldiers demand to be treated like religious ones (ANSAmed) - TEL AVIV, FEBRUARY 29 - Secular soldiers in Israel have taken their case before the Supreme Court to be able to wear beards like their religious counterparts, for whom it is an act of obedience to their faith. The Supreme Court has ordered that the same rules be applied to both secular and religious soldiers. The military spokesman, however, tweeted that it is impossible to run a disciplined army when everyone has a beard. Some religious soldiers have been sent to military detention for not shaving. Media reports say that the ruling will affect 25,000 soldiers. (ANSAmed). (ANSAmed) - ROME, FEBRUARY 29 - Groups of migrants managed to break down a portion of the barrier on the border between Greece and Macedonia, images shown on international networks on site, indicate. Macedonian police fired teargas at migrants. In the meantime, Macedonia has began to build a new fence on the border with Greece, along the road taking to the temporary reception centre of 'Vinojug', close to Gevgelija. Government sources linked to emergency management said that since yesterday evening army units have been employed to heighten a barb wire fence 1.5 meters tall. Authorities stressed that the objective of the barrier is to guarantee the regular and orderly flow of migrants, especially at nightime to prevent them from getting stranded in nearby woods. The clearance of the Calais 'Jungle' has also began amid tensions. Reporters on the scene say that police have shot tear gas in response to stone throwing by some migrants and 'no-border' activists. Three makeshift shacks have also been set fire to, resulting in dense smoke. On Monday morning, police formed a protection cordon around those brought in to dismantle tents and huts. ''We want to act slowly and it will last longer than a single day,'' said Bruno Noel, regional secretary of the police union Alliance Nord-Pas-de-Calais-Picardie, adding that ''security forces have infiltrated the accesses to the camp and are taking no-border activists away, since they are the ones organizing the clashes''. Police officers asked migrants to leave the southern side of the camp on a voluntary basis or they shall be obliged to exercise force. Thursday last week the Lille administrative court allowed the police to evacuate the sourthern side of the Calais Jungle. The government of Francois Hollande assured that all migrants removed from the site will be offered a choice between heated containers and reception centres, but Ngos operating there believe there are not enough places for everybody. According to associations, over 3,400 refugees and asylum-seekers must leave the sourthern part of the camp, while they are approximately a thousand according to the authorities. FIUMICINO - A group of 93 Syrian refugees, of which 41 are minors coming from UNHCR refugee camps in Lebanon arrived this morning at 7 A.M from Beirut at the Roman airport of Fiumicino. They belong to 24 families originally from the towns of Homs, Idlib and Hama that, because of the vulnerability of their situation secured a humanitarian, territorially-restricted visa from the Italian Embassy in Lebanon. Accompanied by the Border Police to an area specifically dedicated to the handling of individual papers, including identification and finger-printing, the refugees will subsequently be transferred to different areas in Italy and shall be hosted by several reception centres. The aim is to provide them with all the assistance they shall need: from help with integration to language courses, handling of asylum requests and job training. The arrival of this group of refugees was the result of a pilot-project born of an agreement in mid December between the Italian Government, the Sant'Egidio Community, the Federation of Evangelical Churches in Italy and the Valdese Table which will welcome up to a thousand refugees in two years. SARAJEVO - The siege of Sarajevo ended twenty years ago, it was the longest in modern history and its tragic toll recorded almost 12 thousand dead, together with devastation and destruction on a scale people still find hard to forget. Bosnia-Herzegovina is emerging from the nightmare of a bloody war in the heart of Europe that claimed 100 thousand lives and two million refugees. Two weeks ago, the Balkanic country requested formal admission to the EU in the hope of leaving its tragic past behind and embarking on a road of modernisation and European integration. One thousand four hundred and twenty five days long, the siege of Sarajevo was marked by continuous strikes and left the city without water, light and food. It began in the spring of 1992 while Europe idly watched. An average of 329 grenades rained on the city every day and the death toll, at the end, recorded 11,541 civilians killed, 1,601 of which children and over 50,000 injured. Following on the footsteps of Slovenia, Croatia and Macedonia, between February 29 and March 1 1992, 64% of Bosnians, mainly Muslims and Croats voted in favour of independence from Slobodan Milosevic's Jugoslavia but the referendum was boycotted by Serbs who had already proclaimed a 'Serb Peoples Republic' on January 9. The Bosnian capital was encircled by tanks and cannons: two thousand fire mouths led by Radovan Karadzic and Ratko Mladic, both facing trials for genocide and war crimes at the Hague International Criminal Court. After American intervention and Nato bombardments over Serbia, peace was finally sealed by the Dayton agreement in November 1995 and a multinational Nato-led force was deployed. For the citizens of Sarajevo the nightmare of grenades and snipers, hunger and cold came to an end with the ''reintegration'' of the city: the siege was lifted and Serb-controlled suburbs were returned to the town after three and a half years of war. Exactly twenty years ago, on February 29 1996, after Vogosca and Rajlovac, government police officers entered Ilijas, some 20 kilometers north-west of Sarajevo, de facto liberating the city and opening the town's road arteries connecting Sarajevo to central Bosnia through the cities of Zenica, Travnik and Tuzla. Reunification was completed on March 19 when the Sarajevo government was given back the city's Grbavica neighbourhood. However, during three and a half years of conflict, warlords managed to destroy hundreds of years of peaceful coexistence between Muslims, Catholics, Orthodox Christians and Jews, while 'pax americana' putting an end to the war entrenched a rigorous ethnic and institutional division that is still slowing down and complicating every decision. Post-war Bosnia-Herzegovina is actually ethnically divided between three populations (Bosnian Muslims, Serb Orthodox and Croat Catholics) and two entities, Federation Bh (with a Croat-Muslim majority) and the Republika Srpska (Rs, with a Serb majority). Efforts by the international community and by local forces towards integration have not yielded many results and this is a limit Bosnians hope to overcome by entering the wider European family. Before submitting their request to the EU, local parties instituted a coordination mechanism to oversee relations between Bosnia-Herzegovina and the EU, in order to ensure, as Brussels demanded, that the Country may ''speak with one voice''. BEIRUT - "Thousands" of people may have died of hunger in besieged areas of Syria, where close to half a million civilians live, said Zeid Raad al Hussein, UN Representative for Human Rights, quoted by pan-Arab network Al Jazeera. Al Hussein spoke the third day after the beginning of a precarious ceasefire which should allow the UN to deliver humanitarian aid to 17 areas of the country still under siege. "Deliberately starving the population is the same thing as employing a forbidden weapon in warfare and, by extension, so are sieges'' said the UN High Representative. In the meantime, Turkish artillery shelled Kurdish YPG militias on Monday, reported the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). The UK-based organization with that relies on a network of activists inside Syria for its information, said that positions in the Raqqa province - in Tel Abyad on the Turkish border - and Monbahteh had been hit. The YPG militias, supported by the US-led international coalition bombing, are fighting the Islamic State (IS) in northern and northeastern Syria but are considered 'terrorists' by the Turkish government. Beginning on Saturday, the first day of a ceasefire brokered by the US and Russia, Turkish shelling had been reported by SOHR as well. Russia said Monday that the Syrian peace process would be jeopardized ''without the participation of the Kurds'' and asked that its partners change their position on the issue, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said. Meanwhile, a group of 93 Syrian refugees, of which 41 are minors coming from UNHCR refugee camps in Lebanon arrived this morning in Rome from Beirut. They belong to 24 families originally from the towns of Homs, Idlib and Hama that, because of the vulnerability of their situation secured a humanitarian, territorially-restricted visa from the Italian Embassy in Lebanon. Turkey shells Kurdish YPG militias in Syria 'Peace process must include Kurds', Moscow; ceasefire violated (ANSAmed) - BEIRUT, FEBRUARY 29 - Turkish artillery shelled Kurdish YPG militias on Monday, reported the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights (SOHR). The UK-based organization with that relies on a network of activists inside Syria for its information, said that positions in the Raqqa province - in Tel Abyad on the Turkish border - and Monbahteh had been hit. The YPG militias, supported by the US-led international coalition bombing, are fighting the Islamic State (IS) in northern and northeastern Syria but are considered 'terrorists' by the Turkish government. Beginning on Saturday, the first day of a ceasefire brokered by the US and Russia, Turkish shelling had been reported by SOHR as well. Russia said Monday that the Syrian peace process would be jeopardized ''without the participation of the Kurds'' and asked that its partners change their position on the issue, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergey Ryabkov said. The Syrian Kurdish militias say that rival Arab groups in northern Syria had violated the ceasefire in place since Friday night. Sources say that jihadists and Al-Qaeda-linked fighters against objectives in the Afrin area north of Aleppo and Sheikh Maqsood, and area of the city of Aleppo. Russian and Syrian regime airstrikes continue to hit positions held by the opposition forces in the area, as they do not consider it included in the ceasefire agreement. SOHR reported that seven civilians (four children and three women) were killed on Monday by an airstrike - conducted by either Russian or the Syrian regime - in the western part of the Aleppo province. It added that opposition forces had also shelled parts of Aleppo held by government forces. (ANSAmed). ANSAmed - Weekly diary from February 29 to March 6, 2016 (ANSAmed) - ROME, FEBRUARY 29 - The following are the main events scheduled in the Euro-Mediterranean area between February 29 and March 6, 2016. MONDAY, FEBRUARY 29 TUNIS - visit by former French prime minister and current Bordeaux mayor Alain Juppe, who is also taking part in a conference at the Carthage Institute of Advanced Business Studies. FIUMICINO (ROME) - A first group of Syrian refugees arrive from Beirut thanks to the ''humanitarian corridor'' project and enter Italy safely and legally. Briefing by the San't Egidio Community. PARMA - Teatro Regio - inauguration of the 2016 academic year of the Diploma and Master in Advanced European Studies at the European College of Parma, with a Lectio Inauguralis by EU commissioner Dimitris Avramopoulos. TUESDAY, MARCH 1 BRUSSELS - European Commission vice president Frans Timmermans will be receiving the head of the Independent Commission on Turkey, Martti Ahtisaari. WEDNESDAY, MARCH 2 TUNIS - Tunisia Health Expo (until 5/3). THURSDAY, MARCH 3 BRUSSELS - EU Transport, Telecommunications and Energy (TTE) Council meeting. BRUSSELS - the EU High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini will be receiving Stephen O'Brien, United Nations' Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator (OCHA). BRUSSELS - EU High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini will be taking part in a meeting on the future overall strategy of the EU in the issues of foreign policy and security. TIRANA - visit by EU foreign policy chief Federica Mogherini (also 4/3). MILAN - conference entitled 'Libya, migration crossroads between Africa and the Mediterranean' at the French Institute (also 4/3) FRIDAY, MARCH 4 ROME - OSCE 'Security Days - Refocusing Migration and Security: Bridging National and Regional Responses' at the foreign ministry. MILAN - Universita cattolica (Catholic University) - Festival of the Arab language, two days of conferences, debates, meetings and shows dedicated to the Arab culture (also 5/3). GENOA - Simone Perotti, who came up with the idea of the nautical, cultural and scientific expedition 'Progetto Mediterranea' will be receiving the 19th Montale Fuori di Casa Award 2016 in the Mediterranean section. SATURDAY, MARCH 5 TURIN - exhibitions begin for the Egypt-Pompeii project that will later continue in Pompeii and Naples. SUNDAY, MARCH 6 NO MAJOR EVENTS SCHEDULED (ANSAmed) Erdogan's wife reported for 'insulting' Turkish Republic For saying 'we have removed the 90-year wreck of Turkey' (ANSAmed) - ISTANBUL, FEBRUARY 29 - After hundreds of complaints filed for alleged insults to President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Turkey's First Lady Emine has now also been accused of a crime. MP Eren Erdem from the Republican People's Party (CHP) filed the criminal complaint after she was quoted by state new agency Anadolu as saying Friday that ''now we are at a new crossroads. We have removed the 90-year wreck of Turkey. However, huge issues emerged under this wreck. We are now facing these problems''. The reference was to the military 'postmodern coup d'etat' on February 28, 1997, which led to the resignation of Islamist leader Necmettin Erbakan, Erdogan's mentor. In the complaint, which the prosecutor's office has yet to assess, Erdem accused Mrs. Erdogan of violating Article 301 of the Criminal Code, which punishes insulting of the Turkish Republic. Amended by Erdogan's AKP, the regulation has been used many times in the past against journalists and intellectuals including Nobel Prize winner Orhan Pamuk. (ANSAmed). Migrants: Gentiloni, corridors a good Italian example Arrival in Rome of 93 Syrian refugees 'message for Europe' (ANSAmed) - ROME, FEBRUARY 29 - Humanitarian corridors have "limited numbers but they are a clear message against human traffickers. A good Italian example the world should follow'' tweeted Italian Foreign Minister Paolo Gentiloni. Gentiloni welcomed the first group of 93 Syrian refugees coming from UNHCR camps in Lebanon this morning at the Roman airport of Fiumicino. These refugees were brought to Italy through the humanitarian corridor established within the framework of the agreement reached in mid December between the Italian Government, the Sant'Egidio Community, the Federaton of Evangelical Churches in Italy and the Valdese Table. The arrival of this first group of refugees ''is also a message to Europe that at this very time there is no need of new walls or fences to confront the migrant crisis'', said the minister. What is needed at the moment ''is an array of different actions, more cooperation with Africa, a commitment to the ceasefire in Syria which is holding after the first 48 hours. The migration issue must be shared at the European level without unilateral decisions''. Humanitarian corridors "are not the solution but are part of it'' stressed Gentiloni, adding "if this Italian example will be followed by different European countries and also non European ones we could allow thousands of refugees to exercise their right to asylum safely and without terrible and unnecessary suffering ". ''This is therefore a small contribution, but it is part of a general solution necessary today'' said the minister, adding ''we hope in a positive contagion'' by other countries which may follow this example. (ANSAmed). Tobruk parliament holds informal session, quorum lacking Chance to vote on unity government lost (ANSAmed) - CAIRO, FEBRUARY 29 - The Tobruk-based House of Representatives held unofficial consultations on Monday due to a lack of a quorum, reported Libyan news agency LANA and other regional media. MP Jaballah El-Tagouri told LANA that there were very few lawmakers present despite the fact that House Speaker Aqila Saleh was in attendance. An opportunity was thus lost for a confidence vote on the national unity government under Prime Minister-Designate Fayez Al-Sarraj. The parliamentary body had on Tuesday adjourned the session for voting until today, but MP Mohamed Linou had said that only unofficial consultative sessions would be held. (ANSAmed). The court rules in favor of Antena 3 regarding the eviction requested by NAFA . Bucharest Court confirms that there is no eviction judgment and, consequently, the evacuation cannot be implemented within five days. The court's decision comes after Antena 3 asked for an extension by 30 days of the eviction deadline. The court states in the reasoning given for the evacuation extension deadline by 30 days request that Antena 3 submitted that it cannot be done because there is no evacuation sentence. Politicians decry NAFAs attitude and claim that an unprecedented abuse has been committed. A week ago, NAFA summoned the Intact group to evacuate within five days the buildings in which it operates, among them the headquarters of Antena 3 from Bucharest-Ploiesti highway. The reason NAFA invoked was that it implemented the court decision of August 2014 ruled in the Telepathy case file on recovery of damages. The High Court of Cassation and Justice dismissed Thursday, February 25 A.C., the appeal forwarded by the Hungarian MEP Laszlo Tokes against the judgment of the Court of Appeal which held that the withdrawal of his "Star of Romania" decoration was legal, dantanasa.ro. reports. The Court of Appeal (CAB) rejected on June 20, 2014 the appeal submitted by MEP Laszlo Tokes against the decision to withdraw him the "Star of Romania" decoration. Today's decision of the High Court: "DECISION No.511 / 25.02.2016 rejects the appeal by Laszlo Tokes against the sentence no.1973 of 20 June 2014 of the Court of Appeal - Section VIII administrative and fiscal, as unfounded. Final. Delivered in open court today, February 25, 2016 ". The reasons Tokes had his Star of Romania decoration withdrawn can be read here. In an intervention in the show '' Subject '' by Razvan Dumitrescu, journalist Dan Tanasa appreciated that this is one of the few moments in which political and intellectual elite of Romania has found appropriate to act with decency and dignity because Laszlo Tokes did not deserve this award from the beginning. Dan Tanasa feels that Budapest will react in this case. Intact Media Group makes the following statement regarding the legal arguments for which the Trust television stations continued to operate in the buildings registered in the state ownership after 08.08.2014: THE PRE-EMPTION RIGHT The existence of three pending court actions calling for the recognition of the pre-emption right to purchase the two properties (Bucharest-Ploiesti no. 25-27 and Garlei No 1B), a right conferred by the provisions of GEO no. 14/2007 and GD. 731/2007. One of these actions covering the pre-emption right to purchase the building in 25-27 Bucharest-Ploiesti was tried and won. The other two actions have not yet been prosecuted. By decision no. 1299 of 04.11.2015, the court finds valid on 08.08.2014, the lease agreement between the applicant Antena TV Group S.A. and the defendant SC Applied Research and Investment Company S.A.. The court notes the applicant's pre-emptive right to purchase the building in Bucharest-Ploiesti no. 25-27 at the price set by the evaluation committee report based on technical expertise and revaluation, pursuant to article 22 par. 8 of the rules for the application of O.G. No.14 / 2007. Therefore, according to GO 14/2007 and the decision cited above, the evaluation and capitalization of the ICA seized buildings must be made in compliance with GEO 14/2007, which stipulates the pre-emption right to purchase by the existing tenants on 08/08/2014. In these circumstances, the eviction notice issued by NAFA on 02/15/2016 in violation of GEO 14/2007 (which does not provide anywhere for the eviction of tenants before exercising the right of pre-emption to purchase) is, according to the group, illegal, which is why it will exercise all legal remedies against any step that is not based on the provisions of GEO 14/2007. CORRESPONDENCE WITH STATE AUTHORITIES The State has not yet communicated concretely to our companies that it will not lease the properties. Moreover, the last reply received from the Ministry of Finance received on January 5, 2016, says that in order to respond to our request for rent, the SGGs opinion is required and we will be informed expeditiously upon receipt of response from this organization. Our group has not yet received a reply since then, except for the eviction notice, which, as stated above, are issued in violation of the provisions of GEO 14/2007 on regulating the manner and conditions of capitalizing the goods that became, according to the law, the states private property, the order which is the legal norm to be followed for the sale of goods which have become the state property by confiscation. Intact Media Group complies with the law but cannot agree with the abuses. The group of more than ten people sent by NAFA to hand in a paper is a telling example in this regard. Intact Media Group pays to date its financial obligations to the Romanian state - a fundamental duty of every good citizen in a state. Our group values its country, helping, specifically, peers and communities in need. Intact Media Group has no shadow funders, and can justify, to the last penny, the money collected. We reaffirm that we are not asking for any favors from the state authorities, but merely the observance of rights conferred by law. We believe that in - the rule of law state, plurality of views is an important prerogative under which our journalists acted over the years by comments or revelations of major corruption cases. The eviction of Antena 3 could change laws in Romania.Representatives of civil servants have explained to Prime Minister and to the Minister of Finance that the current legislation may leave room for abuses. They pointed have out that there is no distinction between good faith taxpayers and the bad payers.As in the case of our TV station , there are situations where the premises cannot be evacuated in five days, especially for large taxpayers, officials say.Even if the legislation is amended, Antena 3 will only serve as a precedent, because in our case procedures have already started and cannot be stopped by changing the laws. Qatar Airways executive vice president, Mohsen Alyafei, received the accolade on behalf of the airlines group chief executive, Akbar Al Baker, from IATAs director passenger, Pierre Charbonneau, at Marsa Malaz Kempinski, The Pearl, where the airline is hosting the Passenger Experience Management Group. The airline met IATAs highest Fast Travel standard by implementing self-service systems that address worldwide passenger demands for more choice, convenience, and control over their travel experience. Qatar Airways uses new technologies, from kiosks to mobile apps, to offer a range of self-serve channels enabling passengers to check-in, print Q-tag baggage labels at home and access quick bag drop facilities worldwide, scan their own travel documents, re-book flights, self-board and report missing bags online. Boulter said one of the aircraft would arrive in Angola in March with the other due in April. Together, they will be used to increase frequencies on the carrier's international routes, which include: Lisbon, Porto, Rio de Janeiro Int'l, Sao Paulo Guarulhos, and Johannesburg O.R. Tambo. The aircraft - D2-TEJ and D2-TEK are part of an order placed by TAAG in 2010 which included two firm B777-300(ER) orders that have since been delivered. In total, TAAG currently operates three B777-300(ER)s and three B777-200(ER)s. Using Emirates (EK, Dubai Int'l) managerial expertise, TAAG is undergoing fleet renewal and network expansion in the hopes of reaching profitability by 2019. Among the proposed new intercontinental destinations the airline is hoping to serve include London Heathrow, Paris CDG, and Houston Intc'l. The MoU was signed in London during a visit this week by a high-level delegation, including Dr Khalifa Al Romaithi, chairman of the UAE Space Agency and by Dr. Mohammed Nasser Al Ahbabi, director general of the UAE Space Agency, who met with senior officials from the UK Space Agency. The MoU covers collaboration in various aspects of space exploration, including space science, technology, applications, policy, law, regulation and human capital development in the space field and related areas. In addition to this, the MoU encourages the establishment of joint working groups to examine and define proposals for joint programs in the areas decided upon by the two agencies, which supports the space programs in both countries. The MoU also covers the promotion of educational activities in space science and technology as well as the promotion of the use of products and services developed under the two agencies programmes. Dr Khalifa Al Romaithi, chairman of the UAE Space Agency said: "The UAE enjoys a strong relationship with the United Kingdom in various fields, including education, business, science and culture. We are looking forward to further augmenting this relationship via the new MoU, which is in line with our strategic plans to expand collaboration with the UK." Al Romaithi added: "We discussed with our English counterparts opportunities to develop aspects of collaboration in areas of common interest and future prospects. We look forward to exchanging expertise, participating in joint studies as well as holding joint conferences and symposia. All of these undertakings will benefit the space agencies of both nations and strengthen the ties between our people. British Ambassador to the UAE, Philip Parham said: With the signing of this MoU, the broad and deep UK and UAE strategic partnership has now reached space. This will open the way for extensive cooperation and partnership in space research, scientific missions and popular outreach. The UK is one of the world leaders in space exploration and technology: UK technology was key to the worlds first collaborative satellite and the most distant probe landing ever achieved Ariel 1 and Huygens respectively. Im excited to imagine the potential, the uncharted frontiers and the many benefits which the UAE and UK can realise together in this field. Best Law Products and Services Would you like to submit an article in the Law category or any of the sub-category below? Click here to submit your article. Would you like to have your product or service listed on this page? Contact us. Earnst Heinrich Haeckel (1834-1919), a German naturalist and champion of Darwin, used Lemuria to explain the absence of fossil remains of early man: If man originated on a sunken continent in the Indian Ocean, all the fossils of the missing link are now under the sea. To quote Haeckel: Schlater has given this continent the name of Lemuria, from the semi-apes which were characteristic of it.Approximately 14,000 years ago, the culture known as Lemuria was thriving. There were also other cultures on Earth, such as Atlantis, which were thriving as well. The holy people or the prophets of the Lemurian culture began to be aware that something was going to be changing. They began receiving information that the Earth was going to go through a very dramatic shift. The shift that they were referring to was what you call the Great Flood. Youve also heard it called the destruction of Atlantis.These holy people of Lemuria were very much in touch with the land as they were/are the ancient ancestors of modern day Native Hawaiians (also known in the Hawaiian/Lemurian language as the Kanaka Maoli). And they began to be aware that it was very important that the knowledge from Lemuria be preserved.So for about 2,000 to 3,000 years, they were preparing for this great cataclysm. They began spreading their "Chrystal Teachings" about the Earth and about mankinds history to as many people as they possibly could. They believed that if they could spread this information to as many people as possible, the information would be stored within the cells of the human bodies it would never be forgotten.They also began storing said information in crystals, which were taken deep within the Earth's surface to be stored and preserved. These ancient Lemurians also began to create detailed maps of the underground tunnels that existed between power points on your planet. They also took the time to prepare their plans.They knew at some point they would receive a sign telling them it was time to go underground before the floods came (as well as sign to return above ground). So they prepared themselves for these several thousand years to be the sacred keepers of the records of Earth. They knew it was very important that the information they held be saved for when the waters receded, otherwise the entire history of Earth and the sacred teachings of the Lemurians would have been lost forever.These holy people received their signs and began going underground. This occurred approximately one year before the flood. While underground, they learned to live there and use the underground environment for their sustenance. They built very supportive and loving communities underground known as "Telos." During that year, they did the final work involved in preserving some of the knowledge that they knew needed to be preserved.Then the flood came all these people who were underground were safe from the waters, even though many, many people on the surface of the Earth perished. When the waters receded, the people emerged from underground. The land they once knew was now very different. This emergence from the Earth is the point at which the Native Americans creation history begins.In a very literal sense, they did emerge from the Earth. Most of the native peoples have lost the exact literal memory of this emergence, but within the highest ranks of the shamans, this knowledge is still passed on.Now, we tell this story from the point of view of the Native Hawaiians, Native Americans, Incas and Hun Elders, but they were not the only people who went underground. The holy people all around this planet went underground. For instance, the Aborigines in Australia and those who were later to become the Druids in England were all preserving their knowledge underground as well. The Druids were preserving the ancient Atlantean information, as were the Egyptians. But the native peoples of the Pacific area, including South East Asia and the Maharlika (Philippines), were preserving the Lemurian information.These native peoples, even today, hold within themselves this sacred knowledge. Some of it is conscious but most of it lies in the subconscious. The Ainu of Japan are one of the tribes that preserved some of the knowledge. There was a great cooperation among all of these peoples on Earth to make sure that the sacred teachings were never lost.The rise and fall of the Lemurian civilization cannot be accurately documented, though many have gone in quest of this mythological continent. Lost civilizations have been known to rise and fall or just appear and disappear without explanation. As with Atlantis one can only speculate as to what happened, based on archaeological evidence, legends, theories pieced together by researchers, and for some, metaphysical changelings that the Anglo-Saxon race is in fact the living genetic history of Atlantis.The exact location of Lemuria varies with different researchers and authors, though it is part of the mysteries of the Pacific region flowing into the American continent, just as Atlantis is linked to the Atlantic land areas that stretch to the Mediterranean Sea. Wherever you believe the location of Lemuria to be, it is linked with the Ring of Fire.This area is active with volcanic eruptions and tsunami's. It would seem that the legends of ancient Lemuria speak to us once again with warning signs as they supposedly did to the Lemurians before the continent or group of islands fell into the sea.The fate of Lemuria, also known as Pacifica, Mu, and what Cayce called Zu or Oz, is not unlike that proposed for Atlantis. It is much like the destiny of humanity foreseen in our timeline by prophets of old and modern-day clairvoyants. The legends are all the same a thriving, advanced culture that suddenly manifested out of nowhere. Their origins and downfall are linked to destruction when their continent sank beneath the sea due to natural cataclysm and human imbalance.Stone monuments of mysterious origin dot the entire Pacific, from Japans underwater site at Yonaguni, to cryptic Petroglyphs on Hawaiis Big Island, to Easter Island among sacred and megalithic sites. Many believe that Easter Island was part of Lemuria. Its hundreds of colossal stone statues and written language point to an advanced culture, yet it appeared on the worlds most remote spot. The legends of Easter Island speak of Hiva which sank beneath the waves as people fled.Samoans called a similar place Bolutu. It was stocked with trees and plants bearing fruits and flowers, which were immediately replaced when picked. On Bolutu men could walk through trees, houses, and other physical objects without any resistance. The Maoris of New Zealand still talk about arriving long ago from a sinking island called Hawaiki a vast and mountainous place on the other side of the water.There are various dates for the Lemurian timeline some placing it millions of years ago while others define the Lemurian era as roughly 75,000 to 20,000 B.C. prior to Atlantis. Others speculate that Atlantis and Lemuria co-existed for thousands of years.The idea of the Lemurian continent first appeared in the works of Augustus Le Plongeon, (1826-1908) a 19th century researcher and writer who conducted investigations of the Maya ruins in the Yucatan. He announced that he had translated ancient Mayan writings, which allegedly showed that the Maya of Yucatan were older than the later civilizations of Atlantis and Egypt, and additionally told the story of an even older continent of Mu, whose survivors founded the Maya civilization. All the latest Ashbourne news. Ashbourne is an historic market town in Derbyshire. Situated on the southern edge of the Peak District, it is known as the 'Gateway to Dovedale' and the 'Gateway to the Peak District'. Ashbourne is famous for the annual Royal Shrovetide Football Match, which has been played since at least 1667, although its origins may date back centuries earlier. Ashbourne became a Fairtrade town in March 2005. The popular Tissington Trail, which follows the route of the former Ashbourne to Buxton railway, starts on the edge of town. Keep up to date with the latest news from the town by signing up for our newsletter. by Nguyen Hung The Jubilee of the Volunteers of Mercy will be celebrated on 4 September, the anniversary of the Albanian Blesseds death and perhaps of her canonisation. The Missionaries of Charity of Christ in Vietnam were founded in 1975, but in 1995, the Communists drove them from the country. After returning ten years ago, they now work with orphans, the poor, prostitutes and people living with AIDS. Ho Chi Minh City (AsiaNews) Reliving the spirit of Mother Teresa, "we are proud to be Missionaries of Charity of Christ. We are part of the religious family of the Vietnamese Church, and we serve the poor and the less fortunate through public vows of charity, poverty and obedience, dedicating ourselves wholeheartedly to the service of our brothers and sisters, the Sisters told AsiaNews. The Order of the Missionaries of Charity of Christ was born from Mother Teresas charisma. They will celebrate the Jubilee of the Volunteers of Mercy on 4 September, anniversary of their foundress death, and the probable date of her canonisation. The Missionaries of Charity of Christ were set up in Vietnam after the government banned the Sisters of Mother Teresa. Later, they became the local branch of the international institute. The bond between Mother Teresa and Vietnam was established in July 1973, when the then Archbishop of Saigon, Mgr. Paul Nguyen Van Binh, invited the nun to send seven Indian seminarians to help and serve local poor. On 30 April 1975, when Saigon (later renamed Ho Chi Minh City) fell to Communist forces, men and women religious were forced to flee to Hong Kong, but the archbishop organised a group of local nuns to follow Mother Teresas spirituality, the Missionaries of Charity of Christ. Between 1991 and 1995, Mother Teresa, who is an ethnic Albanian, went to Vietnam five times. The first time she met with government officials; the second time with the archbishop of Ho Chi Minh City, where she spent a week meeting and advising her Vietnamese sisters about their work with the poor and the less fortunate. During the third visit, in 1994, Mother Teresa worked together with the eight nuns who ran the orphanage at 38 Tu Xuong Street in Ho Chi Minh City, which welcomes thousands of abandoned children from different provinces of the country. During her last visit, in December 1995, the Communist Party told her that all the sisters of the congregation had to leave by 23 December. "We will accept Gods will and shall learn from it what God wants from us, some of sisters said quoting Mother Teresa. The world is full of bombs, which cannot bring peace and happiness to people. Only Gods love and mercy can. Smile, smile at least five times a day to the people who do not want to do it. Do it for peace!" In June 2006, a delegation that included Sister Nirmala (Mother Teresas successor), Sister Lysa (deputy general superior) and Sister Leon (in charge of Asian congregations) came to see the work performed by the Missionaries of Charity of Christ and expressed their approval for the latters merger with the Missionaries of Charity International, whilst keeping their original name. On 28 February 2008, the Holy See gave its approval for the permanent constitution of the Missionaries of Charity of Christ in Vietnam. The Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject went to Pakistani journalist and filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, who goes after blood money and the abuse of women in A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness. For her, there is no place for such perversions in Islam. Prime Minister Sharif says he will rid Pakistan of this evil. Los Angeles (AsiaNews) A Pakistani documentary about honour killing in the Muslim world has captured a place of honour in the movie worlds foremost event. The Oscar for the Best Documentary Short Subject went to A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness by Pakistani journalist and filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, which slams blood money and the abuse of women in Pakistan. The director was the co-winner in the Best Documentary Short Subject category in 2012 with Saving Faces, a film about acid attacks against women in Pakistan. This year, her winning film is based on a true story, which she personally followed. The story is about Saba Qaiser, 19, who married the man she loved against the wishes of her family. Shortly after the marriage, her father and uncle took her on the bank of a river, shot her in the head, put her into a plastic bag and dumped her in the river, convinced that they had killed her. However, Saba miraculously survived, and managed to drag herself to the nearest village, where she was taken to a hospital and saved by a doctor who over the following months reconstructed parts of her face that had been disfigured by the gunshot. After her father and uncle were taken into custody, Saba came under enormous pressure from the community, to the point that she decided to forgive them, which under Pakistani law meant they could be released. The film looks at events from Sabas point of view, whom the director knows personally. According to the Pakistani government, about 1,000 women are murdered in honour killings every year; other sources put the number of victims at least 4,000. In her acceptance speech, the director said, This is what happens when determined women get together. For her, there is no place in Islam for such shameful practices. Such a terrible reality should be abolished. Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif met with Obaid-Chinoy a week before the Oscars. The director screened the film at his private residence in the presence of some members of the Pakistani Senate and National Assembly. Afterwards, Sharif in a statement vowed to rid Pakistan of this evil by bringing in appropriate legislation. by Kamran Chaudhry The Islamic radicals are protesting in the streets around the country. The confessed murderer of the former governor of Punjab Salman Taseer was hanged this morning. The choice of President Hussain not to grant a pardon is "courageous. Justice has been done despite the pressure of the fundamentalists ". Director of Justice and Peace: "Taseer was killed because he defended Asia Bibi, who still languishes in jail." Lahore (AsiaNews) - Islamic fundamentalists have taken to the streets across Pakistan to protest this mornings hanging of Mumtaz Qadri, the self-confessed murderer of former Governor of Punjab Salman Taseer. "Broadcasters have stopped airing news of his execution. But the international community has turned the spotlight on this case, " Morris Jalal, the founder of a Catholic television in Lahore tells AsiaNews. He adds: "Justice has been done despite the pressure of the fundamentalists. We appreciate the government's decision, which has shown a lot of courage. The president is under threat". Tension is high in the country, where Qadri supporters have blocked several cities. In recent days, they had threatened retaliation if President Mamnoon Hussain rejected the appeal presented by Qadris lawyers. The threats have forced the Hussain family to take refuge in the presidential palace, monitored by security guards. In addition, two days ago, police arrested two drivers of the presidential convoy, made suspicious by the fact that they had a slower pace than expected. Qadris execution, says Fr. Jalal, "is a very brave choice, especially for minorities. This means that in the future false cases of blasphemy will be discouraged. It is a clear message to the terrorists to repent. No one is above the law and the government is determined to root out the problems in the country. " Qadri was hanged this morning in Adiala jail in Rawalpindi, near the capital Islamabad. He was one of Taseer's body guards of and January 4, 4 January 2011, Qadri, one of Taseer's body guards, killed the governor as he left a restaurant in Islamabad, over his positions against the blasphemy law, which imposes life imprisonment or the death sentence for those who desecrate the Quran or the name of the prophet Muhammad. Qadri has always claimed responsibility for the murder saying he wanted to punish the governor, who had also spoken in favour of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman charged with insulting the Prophet. Immediately after the murder of Taseer, Qadri was exalted by fundamentalists as a "national hero." His image is everywhere in Pakistan, on the tuck tucks [the characteristic two-wheel taxis, ed] and election posters. According to Fr. Emmanuel Yousaf Mani, director of the National Justice and Peace Commission of the Pakistani Bishops' Conference, "the murderer's death shows that the civil and military leadership are on the same level". "The merit - he adds - also goes to our courts, which did not give in to the pressure of religious groups. Finally there is the political will to deal with terrorism. We may have a violent reaction, but the authorities must not be afraid. " The priest concludes, "Taseer had the courage to take a stand for a poor woman from a minority community. Asia Bibi is still languishing in prison. We demand her immediate release". The operations in the northeast of the country, close to oil wells and Shiite majority. Saudi Arabia has crafted a military alliance formed by 35 countries to fight "terrorism" in Islamic nations. Riyadh (AsiaNews) The armies of 20 Islamic countries have given rise to one of the largest military exercises in the world. Troops from Pakistan, Malaysia, Turkey, Egypt, Morocco, Jordan and Sudan are participating en masse in exercises involving ground troops, air and naval forces. The operations also include five Gulf countries. The exercises are being held in the north-east of the country, rich in oil and with a majority Shiite population. Officially, the reason for this display of military power is the response to the threat posed by "terrorist groups." But it is also likely that the exercises in a very hot area for the presence of Shiites, is to deter any possibility of internal revolts. Last December, Saudi Arabia formed an alliance with 35 countries to fight terrorism in Islamic nations. In addition to being committed to the coalition to officially fight against the Islamic State in Syria, Riyadh is involved in military actions and air strikes against Houthi rebels in Yemen, trying to curb Iranian influence in the region. by Jibran Khan Mumtaz Qadris death sentence was carried out early this morning hours of today. The detainee met with family before execution. His funeral planned for this afternoon, with expected mass participation of Islamic radicals, who have already blocked the streets of Rawalpindi, Lahore and Karachi. Qadri is considered a "national hero" for killing the former Punjab governor, critic of the blasphemy laws. Rawalpindi (AsiaNews) - Mumtaz Qadri, the confessed murderer of former Governor of Punjab Salman Taseer, was hanged in the early hours of this morning. The death sentence was confirmed last week by the President of Pakistan, Mamnoon Hussain, after the request for a pardon presented by Qadris lawyer was denied. The hanging has sparked protests from Qadris supporters, who hail him as a "national hero" for having defended the blasphemy laws. The death sentence was carried out at 4:30 (local time) in the Adyala prison in Rawalpindi, near the capital Islamabad. A few hours before the inmate was able to meet the family for the last time. His body was handed over to family members, who organized the funeral for the afternoon today. Qadri's death has been condemned by the Islamic associations in the country, who have blocked the streets of Rawalpindi, Lahore and Karachi. His supporters are also expected at the funeral, and the security forces have stepped up the alert level in the most sensitive areas. On 4 January 2011, Qadri, one of Taseer's body guards, killed the governor as he left a restaurant in Islamabad, over his positions against the blasphemy law, which imposes life imprisonment or the death sentence for those who desecrate the Quran or the name of the prophet Muhammad. Qadri has always claimed responsibility for the murder saying he wanted to punish the governor, who had also spoken in favour of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman charged with insulting the Prophet. Qadris defence team has argued that the Federal Shari'a Court had jurisdiction in this case because their client acted in defence of Islam. For the lawyers, the accused murdered Taseer because the latter had spoken out against the blasphemy law, calling it "black law" and, therefore, had to be considered a blasphemer. Qadri was sentenced to death in October 2011 by an anti-terrorism court, a decision that was upheld by the Islamabad High Court in February 2015 on the grounds that nothing justified the murder of the victim. Last October, his lawyers appeal to the Supreme Court of Pakistan was also rejected. Last week President Hussein rejected the request for a pardon, depsite the pressure from teh radical Islamic wing and direct personal threats. International law firm DLA Piper has seen its net profit dip despite higher revenues in 2015. Global revenue was up 2.5 per cent to U$2.54 billion while net profit was down 9.2 per cent to $605.5 million. Equity partners did not lose out though with average PEP climbing 5.4 per cent to $1.57 million. The firm has 14 per cent fewer equity partners than 2014.Three law firms have launched a joint legal venture in Chinas Hengqin Free Trade Zone. The Zhuhai-based venture brings together Zhong Yin Law Firm of Beijing, Fongs Lawyers of Hong Kong and Rato, Ling, Lei & Cortes (Lektou) of Macau. The main focus of the alliance is M&A and banking & finance.A new study says that the majority of lawyers and the judiciary come from elite backgrounds. The report, from the UK-based Sutton Trust, reveals that 55 per cent of solicitors and 78 per cent of barristers were educated at the top universities of Oxford and Cambridge. In the judiciary, 74 per cent have an Oxbridge background. The study found that progress to change the makeup of the UKs legal profession has meant a drop in the percentage of those from elite backgrounds.The legal dispute between smartphone giants Apple and Samsung has taken another twist with the US Court of Appeals overturning a ruling in Apples favour. The court said that Samsung did not infringe one of Apples patents and another two were deemed invalid. However, Apple did infringe one of Samsungs patents the court said. Reuters reports that Samsung called the decision of a three-judge panel, a win for consumer choice while Apple did not provide comment. Multiculturalism is good for Australia, according to 85% of people surveyed for a new study that looked at attitudes towards immigration.But underneath this headline figure is a much more complex picture that varies according to age, location and demographic group, the report from the Scanlon Foundation reveals.Researchers found a gap in attitudes between State capital cities and their regions. A comparison of them found that 48% of people in Melbourne and Canberra thought multiculturalism was good but this was 39% to 42% in Adelaide and Sydney and 35% to 37% in Brisbane and Perth.Similarly, attitudes differed across the generations, with young people consistently more accepting of immigration and cultural diversity than middle aged and older respondents.Young people have the highest positive response to the question of whether multiculturalism has been good for Australia, with 91% agreeing or strongly agreeing. Similarly, young people strongly back the notion that Australians should learn more about migrant cultures, with 85% agreeing or strongly agreeing.Young people also have the strongest negative reaction when questioned about whether Australia's immigration policy should discriminate against particular groups on the basis of ethnicity with 87% disagreeing compared to 71% of people aged 60 to 69.Almost two thirds of young people aged 18to 29 agreed that the Government should assist ethnic minorities to maintain their culture, compared to just 34% of middle aged, and 31% of older Australians."These findings suggest that young people see multiculturalism as a central component of Australian life and see no contradiction between being Australian and maintaining immigrant cultures and identity. This reflects the reality of a globalised world, where people now expect to have multiple careers and live in different countries," the report says.The research also revealed concern over immigration which is now at its lowest level since the surveys began in 2007, yet 35% of people still feel that the immigration intake is too high."Australia's diverse culture is one of its most defining characteristics. In an era of globalisation, and with immigration continuing to be prominent issue in the news cycle, it's timely to consider public attitudes about a changing and increasingly diverse society, and how this affects our overall social cohesion," said Anthea Hancocks, chief executive officer of the Scanlon Foundation."Australians are generally very accepting of cultural diversity and immigration, however this level of support varies across generations, geographical locations, and particular demographic groups," she explained.She added that the Foundation hopes the paper will encourage thoughtful debate about the concept of multiculturalism, and how Australia will continue to foster social cohesion in a rapidly changing world. Hi All,I have not been on here much as my visa is waiting for my FBI check and until that comes in I am in limbo. I have been in contact with my assigned caseworker who has actually been really great. I was surprised but she has kept me updated with everything since she was assigned in Dec. Anyway...My husband and I have been married for over 10 years. He has been supporting my son financially, emotionally, etc. since my son was 7. When my daughter (8 year old Aussie by descent) and I came here he stayed behind to finish high school. He was living with his Nana who had terminal cancer but it looked as if she had a great deal more time than she did. My son came over to visit and his visa was valid until Feb 2016. In the beginning of Jan when he was getting ready to go home for the last 6 months of high school his Nana's health rapidly deteriorated. Everyone had expected her to be around for at least another year. She was only in her early 60's...Anyway, I looked into adding him to my Partner Visa that is pending. It appeared that it would be fine as he has not finished high school and he is wholly dependent on my husband and I. My caseworker called and told me that because of his age and the fact that he was not living with me at the time he probably would not meet the "dependency test". She then said that there were other visa options that would be more appropriate for him and would not jeopardize my visa which she said is ready to be granted upon police certificate (which may or may not be true.) But she was not able to tell me what those options were because she can't really give that advice which is fine.I did a bit of research over the weekend and there are 2 different "remaining relative" visas one of which is for people in Australia. Oh because also, my son's father has not been in his life stably (or otherwise--he is an active drug addict. It was his mother that is my son's Nana) he did not even go home for her funeral because he honestly had nowhere to go. I just want to be sure I am heading in the right direction. I mean honestly, my husband, my daughter and I are the only family my son really has now. I am really nervous. Free Stuff FREE TIX - Australia Day This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. *PLEASE NOTE: Entries received BEFORE 9am March 3 will be disqualified. One entry per person. Tickets cannot be exchanged for cash or for any other performance. If you have won tickets from Australian Stage in the past 4 weeks you are ineligible for this promotion. The country town of Coriole is getting ready for Australia Day a time to crack open a frothy, stick a snag on the barbie and celebrate what it means to be a true blue Aussie.The Australia Day committee is gearing up to put on the towns biggest party but they have a few issues of their own to sort out first. With everyone from the Greens to the local mayor to the CWA wanting a piece of the party pie, its proving hard yakka to work out what an Aussie celebration should look like. Nothing is sacred as the national identity is put through the wringer in this thoroughly modern ripper of a comedy!Will the day be fair dinkum after all? Or are there too many roos loose in the community hall?Australian Stage has FOUR DOUBLE passes to giveaway - 8pm Saturday 12 March, 2016- you MUST do at least one of the following:- sign up to receive our weekly e-newsletter follow us on Twitter become a fan on Facebook - send your name and the words "Australia Day" to:The first FOUR entries received* will win a double pass to the 8.00pm performance Saturday 12 March, 2016.Clocktower TheatreWritten and directed by Jonathan BigginsClocktower Theatre | 750 Mount Alexander Road, Moonee Ponds, VIC11 12 Mar 2016$29 $49 Limited to just 500 units, the Chiron uses a heavily revised version of the Veyrons 8.0-litre W16 developing 1479bhp. The German-owned French carmaker has taken the wraps off the new Chiron. Named after the 1920s and 1930s Bugatti racing driver Louis Chiron, the car borrows styling details from the Vision Gran Turismo concept and like its predecessor, aims to sit at the very top of the supercar segment. Limited to just 500 units, the Chiron is powered by a heavily revised 8.0-litre quad-turbocharged W16 engine that now develops 1,479bhp 492bhp more than in its predecessor and 163kgm of torque. The car uses a revised version of the Veyrons seven-speed automatic gearbox and all-wheel-drive system equipped with an electronic differential that provides a torque vectoring function. Braking is handled by 420mm front and 400mm rear disc brakes with eight piston and six piston callipers respectively. The engine has been heavily reworked with larger two-stage turbos two turbos function during step off with the other two joining in at about 3800rpm, reworked injection system, revised intercoolers and a new titanium exhaust. While it is yet to undergo final certification testing, Bugatti has released preliminary performance figures suggesting it has achieved its stated aim of making the Chiron faster than the Veyron with claims of 0-100kph in under 2.5sec, 0-200kph in less than 6.5sec and 0-300kph in under 13.6sec. By comparison, the Veyron posted official times of 2.5sec, 7.3sec and 16.7sec respectively. The Chiron is offered with five drive modes Lift, Auto, Autobahn, Handling and Top Speed. Lift allows the driver to raise the ride height to negotiate speed bumps. Auto, Autobahn and Handling get a top speed limited to 380kph, while Top Speed allows the car to reach its max top speed of 420kph. In terms of design, the Chiron gets tauter surfacing, bolder details and added aerodynamic efficiency over its predecessor. Key design elements include the traditional grille design, race-grade front splitter, distinctive LED headlamps, a semi-circular bodywork extending back from the front wheel arches towards the rear and ending at the A-pillar, full-width LED tail lamps, central exhaust and NACA ducts for cooling. The cabin is trimmed in a combination of leather, carbonfibre and brushed aluminium. Among the new developments is a passenger airbag that deploys through carbonfibre a first for a production vehicle. The Chiron will be assembled at Bugattis headquarters in Mosheim, France. So far, Bugatti has received more than 150 orders for the new car, and deliveries will begin in October 2016. The made-in-India Baleno took centre stage at Suzukis stall at the Geneva Motor Show 2016. While the Baleno etches a new milestone by kick-starting exports to its parent Suzuki in Japan for the first time from end-January, it also re-opens the European markets for Maruti after a lull of around four years, when the carmaker had discontinued exports of its A-Star hatchback. Maruti Suzuki had then been given the mandate by Suzuki Motor Corporation to export to the non-European markets of Latin America, Asia, Middle East and Africa from India, while its parent serviced the EU geographies from its manufacturing facility located at Hungary and at Japan. But since the global Baleno mode launched last October in India is being made only locally, a natural corollary would be to export it to Europe from India. Hence, early this month the Baleno was shipped to several EU countries of Italy, France, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Poland, Slovenia and Spain to start with. From these ports, it will be forwarded to different countries in the EU and be stocked at the warehouses ready for the spring launch that normally falls between May to July. Interestingly, the first consignment of the 1,760 right-hand-drive, CVT-equipped, 1,242cc petrol-enginedBalenos has reached Japan on February 15. The Europe-bound left-hand-drive Balenos are powered by the 1,242cc DualJet, dual-injection petrol engine and equipped with both five-speed manual and automatic CVT options. In India, the Baleno is powered by the DDiS 190 diesel engine (1.3L) and the VVT petrol (1.2L). At the Geneva Motor Show, the production version of the made in India Baleno displays the new technologies of Suzuki in the premium hatchback segment including a rigid, lightweight new-generation platform, the 1.0-litre direct-injection turbo Boosterjet engine that was recently exhibited at the Auto Expo 2016. The engine will power the Baleno RS model that will be launched during the festive season in India. The engine will also be the motor of choice for future Baleno consignments that are exported to Europe. In addition, the Baleno for Europe will have the option of the 1.2-litre SHVS (Smart Hybrid Vehicle by Suzuki) powertrain, featuring engine assist from an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) connected to a lithium-ion battery. All of these are expected to engage the customer with fuel-efficient driving experience, imparting the Baleno more than just good looks and convenience. The 1.2 Dualjet can be paired with either the same five-speed manual transmission as the 1.0 Boosterjet or with a CVT. The global models layout has been optimised and various lightweighting technologies have contributed to meet the rigorous size and weight requirements specific to compact cars for Europe. In line with the European requirements, the Baleno has undergone extensive testing in the EU. Suzuki Motor Corporations participation at the Geneva Motor Show this year will enable Maruti Suzuki to win a slew of new export orders for Europe, where it was faced with dwindling sales due to the economic slowdown at last count. With the Baleno, the export market could start looking good once again for Indias largest carmaker. SIAM says proposed move to result in vehicles getting dearer amid already weak consumer demand. The auto industry today expressed concern over Finance Minister Arun Jaitleys proposal to levy further taxes on cars with the apex auto body, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM), saying the move would hurt the industry. We believe the governments decision to levy additional taxes would result in the rise of prices across categories of passenger vehicles and would hurt the industry. With the governments focus being rationalisation and simplification of taxes, introduction of new taxes on vehicles will only dampen the spirit of the auto sector, Vinod Dasari, president, Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM) said. In a move to reduce air pollution and reduce vehicular traffic, the government on Monday announced additional taxes such as 1 percent infrastructure cess on small petrol, LPG, CNG cars with engine capacity not exceeding 1,200cc, 2.5 percent on diesel cars with engine capacity of less than 1,500cc and 4 percent on vehicles and SUVs longer than four metres and with engine capacity higher than 1.5 litres. An additional 1 percent tax is also to be levied on the purchase of cars exceeding value of Rs 10 lakh. Roland Folger, managing director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said tax on luxury cars will be a deterrent for the growth of the industry. In the short to mid-term, we missed an opportunity to drive growth in the sector, which could have further benefitted the long-term prospects of the auto industry, he said. We expected some reforms in the duty structure, which could have infused growth in the sector and would have provided additional employment. The rationalisation of the duty structure would have also created a level playing field for all brands, Folger said, adding that significant spending on infrastructure and rural development, however, was laudable. The government failed to address the automobile industrys demand for a reduction in excise duty, which further left most automakers disappointed. The budget lacks a roadmap for the automotive sector, which has for long continued to be an engine of India's economic growth. The high level of discounting in the domestic market today indicates weak consumer demand, Nigel Harris, president and managing director, Ford India said, adding that the additional taxes are likely to impinge on sales and industry growth prospects. Other industry members also expressed disappointment over lack of further measures to promote alternative fuel technology. "We would have expected some measures to promote alternate fuel technologies which would have helped the environment as well. We would encourage the government not to just think based on size of the vehicle which has no relation to the technology," according to Shekar Viswanathan, vice chairman, Toyota Kirloskar Motor. More on the Union Budget 2016-17 Union Budget 2016-17: Cars and SUVs to get more expensive Union Budget 2016-17: Higher taxes hit car prices Union Budget 2016-17: Auto industry reactions No additional funds for EV industry in Budget 2016 Budget 2015-16 focuses on improving infrastructure New car price hike to hit consumers, industry The American engineers from House Milwaukee have also fitted with a telescopic front fork, dual shock absorbers as a rear suspension, front and rear disc brakes, a sculpted, dual seat with lumbar support for the rider, a large, round headlight with a chromed housing, a chromed exhaust system, laced wheels, full-fenders and wide handlebars, for a typical American cruiser riding position. But while we'll probably have to wait until tomorrow for the hotter Fiata, we can talk about the refreshed 500 Abarth right now, thanks to this fresh-out-of-the-oven set of spyshots.The revised pocket rocket has been spied both in Italy and in Scandinavia, with the vehicle now completing the final stages of development.Since FCA's current budget calls for prolonged life cycles with limited investments, many of their facelifts show little changes. With this being true for the normal 500, we expect the same to happen to the scorpion-badged versions.Up front, we'll get a new apron with thirstier air intakes, while the front and rear light clusters will replicate those fitted to the normal car. As expected, the rims will also enjoy fresh styling cues.The list of cabin changes will be led by a new infotainment system and this is, once again, an area where we know what to expect, thanks to the regular 500.Under the hood, the turbocharged 1.4-liter engine is expected to receive a moderate horsepower injection, but don't expect things to go past the 200 hp border.The 2016 Fiat 500 Abarth will arrive in dealerships across the world by the middle of the year. However, if you're in the market for one of these Italian spices, you might also want to consider another Fiat the company's in-house tuner is currently working on.As it happens, Abarth is currently in the midst of an expansion process and, aside from the 500 and the 124, the tech wizards will also touch the 500X crossover SUV AV With millions of miles under their belts between them, it would have been impossible not to be part of any sort of traffic incident, but Google always highlighted the fact that in all instances, it was the fault of the other vehicle that was definitely operated by a human being.Well, it would appear that this immaculate record of its self-driving cars is about to be lost once and for all, as one of the autonomous Lexus RX450h SUVs might have just caused a minor accident in Mountain View, California. But before you pop open that champagne bottle (nobody likes a smart-ass, Google), let's hear what actually happened. DMV report first discovered by Mark Harris tells an interesting story. According to the official paper, Google's autonomouswas traveling on El Camino Real in the right-hand lane as it approached an intersection. It signaled its intention to go right at a red light, then proceeded to move closer to the right extremity of the lane, to pass the cars that were in the same lane but wanted to cross the intersection straight.As it turns out, the Google car was out of luck as some sandbags positioned around a storm drain blocked its path, so it had to sit and wait for the light to turn green. Once that happened, a few cars passed the Lexus, but then the autonomous SUV decided to try and move back to the center of the lane. A public bus that came from behind failed to acknowledge the self-driving car's intentions and didn't stop to allow the Lexus to go around the obstacle. The two vehicles made contact, resulting in minor damages to the car and probably nothing more than a dent on the bus.The vehicle was operating in autonomous mode at all times and the Google(autonomous vehicle) test driver said he saw the bus coming, but assumed it would stop and allow the RX450h to perform the maneuver safely.This small mishap actually manages to make the Google AI controlling the car seem more human, but that's not what is expected of it. Google undoubtedly wants it to be 100 percent foolproof, and as we've said before, that perfect record has now been tainted. Of course, there's still plenty of time for Google to address any flaws in its system and the AI has probably learned something from this, but even though it messed up, I hope Google won't punish it too hard. After all, I prefer this outcome over having the car sit there forever, until no other vehicle could be spotted on a three-mile radius. And let's not exclude the possibility where the bus driver was behaving like an a-hole on purpose, just because he had recognized the car.We'll hear more about the incident from Google in a few days' time when the monthly self-driving report comes out. I tell you, there is not one boring day in this automotive world. HP ESP Fords Fiesta ST will be available in a 200version, called the ST200. Thanks to the 10% power hike and the 20% increase in maximum torque, the Fiesta ST200 is 0.2 seconds faster when accelerating from 0 to 100 km/h (0-62 MPH) and has better in-gear performance. That is great news for any car, and excellent when referring to a hot hatch.The most powerful production Fiesta ever is capable of sprinting from 0 to 62 MPH in just 6.7 seconds. The top speed is 143 MPH (230 km/h), more than enough for a car in this segment. As its name suggests, maximum output has been raised to 200 HP, while maximum torque is at 290 Nm (214 lb-ft). That is a lot for a 1.6-liter turbocharged gasoline engine, but it still doesnt make the Fiesta ST200 the segment leader.However, the regular version of this generation Fiesta ST was acclaimed by reviewers for excellent overall performance when compared to more powerful cars, so this new version will bring a challenge to the table when it comes to this segment.The new variant of the Ford Fiesta ST also comes with red brake calipers, matte black 17-inch alloy rims, and a unique exterior color called Storm Grey. The Fiesta ST200s interior features Recaro front seats, illuminated sill plates, and seat belts with silver accents to match the silver contrast stitching of the cabin.Additionally, the new version boasts an enhanced suspension and braking system. The carssystem has three operating modes and supports an enhanced torque vectoring control system. Furthermore, the front steering knuckle has been modified, and the rear twist-beam suspension gets improved roll stiffness, while the springs and dampers receive a new calibration.The steering arm is shorter than the one on the current model, and the steering ratio is sharper than on the standard Fiesta ST. Meanwhile, the braking system includes larger rear brake discs and an enhanced brake master cylinder.Contrary to expectations, Ford chose not to use their RS designation for this version of the Fiesta. The company did not fully explain this decision, but we expect it to have something to do with the power level of the ST200, that would have been insufficient for it to be called RS.Ford will publicly showcase the new Fiesta ST200 at this years Geneva Motor Show. Production will begin in June, and the first European customers of this model will get their cars shortly after the first units leave the line. So even though this job is often quoted as the lowest form of employment and used by parents to scare their kids into sticking with high school, it's also one of the gears that need to turn for a city to remain functional. We're not here to raise the number of employees in this field, but we just want to make sure we're all on the same page regarding the importance of waste collection.However crucial it may be, it still wouldn't qualify as the first field to test the advancements of the autonomous technology - or so you'd think. Together with undergrads from Chalmers University of Technology, Malardalen University and Penn State University, Volvo had different plans. The multinational team came up with a system that can collect and empty the trash cans into the garbage truck completely autonomous, apart from the driver in the truck (but he shouldn't feel too safe about his job either).The system provides an overwhelming show of forces for the simple task of taking a bin from its location and hooking it to the back of the truck where the classic hydraulic systems take care of the rest. The first iteration of this system had the wheeled robot (called ROARy) wandering the neighborhood in search of the trash cans. Now, though, there is a flying drone that scans the area and identifies the exact location of the bins, relaying it to ROARy. Slowly but surely, the robot makes its way to the location, making sure to avoid any obstacles in the way by means of a LIDAR system and other sensors, including cameras.The whole process takes about forever, but the technology behind it - and most particularly the interconnectivity between the vehicles involved - is impressive, and it could find more suitable uses in the future (which is probably the whole point of this demonstration). As for waste disposal, we'd say things are good the way they are right now , and there's no need for a complete automatization of this type. A few more strikes, though, and municipalities could be giving Volvo a call inquiring about ROARy's availability. An 87-year-old pilot was unhurt but undoubtedly uncomfortable after his Cessna ended up in trees short of the runway at Gettysburg Regional Airport in Pennsylvania on Saturday. The pilot, who has not been identified, hung from his seatbelt for four hours while 75 firefighters figured out how to get him down from the aircraft. The plane ended up hanging nose-down from a stand of trees after the pilot tried to get back to the field after an engine failure shortly after takeoff. He apparently didnt get very close. The rescue was made more difficult by the fact that it was in the trees but also because the trees were so far off the road or the runway, Gettysburg Fire Department spokesman Russell McCutcheon told WHP News. The pilot was on his way to Maryland when the engine quit. After they realized the pilot was virtually unscathed (a few scrapes on his hands) firefighters canceled a plan to lower a first responder from a helicopter to pull him out. Instead, they put up ladders and pulled him out the door. The aircraft is still in the tree while authorities figure out how to get it down. The tail is severed and the wings are wrecked but there is probably some salvage there. The pilot was taken to the hospital to be checked. As part of AVwebs Features, were starting an occasional series on innovators who are making a difference in general aviationthe young guns of GA, so to speak. Well be doing interviews with them where they can talk about what theyve done and their vision for the future of the area of general aviation where they are making a difference. Todays focus is on Rod Rakic, co-founder of OpenAirplane, the Internet-based service that allows pilots to rent airplanes across the country based on one checkout, which is renewed annually. His concept of a standardized checkoutwhich also functions as a flight reviewwon over insurers, FBOs and flight schools. Until OpenAirplane, for a pilot to rent an airplane away from his home FBO, he or she had to get a checkout at the new FBO, spending several hundred dollars, before being turned loose to fly. Now, a pilot who has an OpenAirplane Universal Pilot Checkout (UPC) can rent the same type of airplane at any participating flight school or FBO almost anywhere in the country (there are limitations on mountainous areas) via OpenAirplanes website. For the pilots who have long wanted to do a little flying while on vacation or a business trip, but the local checkout was too expensive, OpenAirplane has cut the cost radically. Now the pilot with an OpenAirplane Universal Pilot Checkout uses the website to schedule an airplane at a participating FBO, goes over the detailed local knowledge material for the FBO, airport and area, heads out and goes flying. Billing is through OpenAirplane. One of the most popular features of the service is that it doesnt cost anyone a cent unless a propeller turns. The pilot only pays if he or she goes flying. 10,000 pilots have active OpenAirplane checkouts and there are more than 300 airplanes available for rent at 94 locations across the country. The company recently announced it had raised $500,000 in seed funding to hire more developers, accelerate growth and build new products. Rod sat down with us to talk about his background, the company he co-founded and his vision for the future. How long as OpenAirplane been running? We started working on the concept and company in 2011. We incorporated the business in May 2012 and launched the Beta of the service with six locations in June of 2013. What is your background in aviation? Ive been flying since I was a teenager. I started as a Civil Air Patrol Cadet when I was 12. My first job in aviation was as a lineman at the Port Huron, Michigan airport. When I was 16 I went to the CAP flight academy where I went through its solo program in a week. I spent the rest of high school working nights and weekends to put money into flight training. While other kids were trying to buy a car, I was trying to get that certificate. I earned my private pilot certificate while I was at Western Michigan University through its aviation program. While I was in college I spent time working as the office manager at a flight school at Detroit City Airport. During the day Id manage the flight school, then close up shop and grab the keys to a Cessna Skyhawk while there was still daylight and go log time. Then everything else got in the way of flying. I moved into the public relations and communications program at Western and got my degree in telecommunications. I ended up going to work for a number of advertising agencies. The Internet and online experiences became my focus. I picked up flying again in 2000. I was the classic rusty pilot, but I got back into it. After 9/11 I wanted to get more involved with my country. Active duty wasnt an optionI decided that Civil Air Patrol was for me. I rejoined CAP and got involved with emergency services. Eventually I served as a search and rescue team leader in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and then became a mission pilot. In 2012, I flew over the New York area doing photo reconnaissance following Hurricane Sandy in coordination with the Army Corps of Engineers. I now have a commercial rating and over 1000 hours of flight time. I think the CFI rating is next. What were you doing that caused you to come up with the idea of OpenAirplane? In 2007 I started a social network for aviation called My Transponder. That introduced me to a large number of people in aviation that were accomplishing things but it didnt allow me to contribute as much to aviation as I wanted to. In 2011 I thought about the fact that Id always been a renter pilot. I sat down with Rob Mark, whom Id met through aviation social networking. I talked with him about the idea I had about creating more access for pilots. The question I had was how to fix the problem of the underflying value of a pilot certificate. If the piece of plastic you have in your pocket turns off when you leave your home base, what is it really worth? What if we could apply the Air Force/Civil Air Patrol concept of a standardization and evaluation to general aviation? It exists in the military and some commercial ops and makes those operations saferbut it doesnt exist in Part 91 operations at all. The project started with the intent of coming up with answers to the question, How do we make private aviation more valuable? What if we could make access work better? What if we could make renting easier? What response did you get? Virtually everyone I spoke with said that its a great idea but the insurance carriers wont let you do it. What did you do? I went directly to the insurance carriers. I pointed out the safety benefits of the stan/eval model used by the military and commercial carriers as well as how it reduced the accident rate for Civil Air Patrol. I also talked about the value of private pilots having renters insurance and staying proficient. I wanted to offer a carrot to pilots to take annual standardized flight reviews and to carry renters insurancerental access across the country. How did that work? When I talked safety, I got listened to. Eventually one of the reps of a major aviation insurer said hed go along with it. I went to gatherings of aviation insurers and spoke with underwriters. They saw the value in risk reduction and joined in. Having support of the insurers proved to be the key in launching OpenAirplane. What happened next? By the 2013 launch we had lined up some 5000 pilots who had expressed interest in the concept. Operators began to see that OpenAirplane was a way to get more customers who would be safe renters of their airplanes and who would take annual flight reviews. Internet technology allowed it to be easy for pilots and operators to find each other. Weve been growing ever since. What do you see for the future? Aviation has some great opportunities and great challenges. The number of student starts is up. The product and experience weve created resonates with pilots. There is opportunity for operators to grow their businessnot just slice up available businessby attracting pilots who are traveling to their area to rent their airplanes. The operators also make it attractive for their local pilots to fly with them for their annual Universal Pilot Checkout so those pilots can rent easily when they travel around the country. The idea is to grow the entire community and business of private aviation. The key to unlocking that is to get pilots off the couch and into the cockpit. Thats the number-one thing were focusing on as we grow our national network. Were always looking for more operatorsfor more great places to rent airplanes. Were also turning our attention to the demand sideto get more pilots to get a Universal Pilot Checkout with one of our operators. The key is to ask pilots why they would get an old-fashioned flight review ever again when a 12-month UPC counts as a flight review and opens up your opportunities to rent across the country. Were pointing out that a flight review every 24 months doesnt statistically make you a safer pilot, but a UPC every 12 months does. If youre safer, youre more confident. If youre more confident, youre having more fun. Were also looking for ways to help our pilots with a UPC find more places to fly, to fly more often and have more fun. Were about making flying more valuable, safer and more fun for everyone. Whats available for rent through OpenAirplane now and what are you working toward? Everything from single-engine nose and tailwheel airplanes through light twins. We offer mountain-flying checkouts. Were working toward helicopter rentals and are looking forward to seaplanes. Im looking forward to the day when you can go to a hotel and rent an Icon A5 the way you can rent a jet ski or small boat. What else is going on at OpenAirplane? Weve just started a contestthe pilot who flies the most number of hours out of the greatest number of different airports by March 27 will win a Lightspeed Tango wireless headset. Second prize is a Lightspeed Gann leather flight bag. Theres more, especially for pilots that are using OpenAirplane airplane rentals for public-benefit flying organizations and operations. You can get all the details in the blog section of our website. Rick Durden has completed two Universal Pilot Checkouts with and has rented airplanes through OpenAirplane. He is the author of Volumes 1 & 2 of The Thinking Pilots Flight Manual or, How to Survive Flying Little Airplanes and Have a Ball Doing It. Members of Armenias opposition on Monday criticized the government for promptly submitting draft amendments to the countrys electoral code to legal experts of a Council of Europe body for examination without prior public debate. Levon Zurabian, the parliamentary leader of the main opposition Armenian National Congress (HAK) party, claimed that by sending the draft to the Venice Commission ahead of discussions the Armenian authorities seek to get some sort of approval for their preliminary document after which they wont consider making any concessions to the opposition or civil society [in the matter of the amendments]. This is their tactic that once again shows that they are dishonest and fraudulent and that they plan to rig elections again, the oppositionist charged. The need for changes in Armenias electoral laws emerged after the approval in last Decembers disputed referendum of sweeping amendments to the Constitution envisaging the countrys switch to a parliamentary form of government. The HAK and some other opposition groups campaigned against the controversial changes to the Constitution initiated by President Serzh Sarkisian, claiming that this way the incumbent head of state sought to ensure his continued political clout as leader of the ruling Republican Party of Armenia (HHK) even after his second and final term in office expired in 2018. Sarkisian initially pledged not to seek a top government post should the reform be carried out, while advocates of the changes also insisted that their primary goal was to promote Armenias further democratization. Sarkisian, however, was less categorical about the possibility of his taking the office of a powerful prime minister after stepping down as president in about two years time. Leading Western nations and international organizations monitoring the December vote described the process of drafting a new set of electoral laws as vital to ensuring a free and fair parliamentary vote in 2017 that will form Armenias next government. Therefore, they called for broader involvement of the opposition and civil society in the drafting and discussion of the relevant legislation. In his public speeches President Sarkisian, too, called for a broad-based effort on amending the electoral code, setting the deadline for submitting its draft to the parliament on March 1. He also said that the passage of the draft electoral laws through the HHK-dominated parliament should take place by June, at least a year before the vote. Speaking at a public discussion organized for political parties and nongovernmental organizations today, head of the Vanadzor-based office of the Helsinki Citizens Assembly Artur Sakunts accused the government of going back on their pledge to hold open discussions following recommendations by the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europes Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights. We can state now that the authorities do not comply with the key recommendation of the OSCE/ODIHR on ensuring an inclusive process, he said. Earlier, the HAK and a number of other opposition groups insisted on a number of anti-fraud safeguards to be included in the new electoral code. They singled out a measure that has long been championed by the Armenian opposition: post-election publication of the names of voters who cast ballots. Opposition leaders as well as many civic activists believe that this would practically preclude multiple voting by government loyalists, one of the most frequent forms of electoral fraud in the country. President Sarkisians administration and the HHK have for years opposed the idea, saying that it would breach the constitutionally guaranteed secrecy of ballots. Government representatives working on the current draft have already indicated the unacceptability of the proposal. Meanwhile, leading human rights campaigner Sakunts also expressed fears that despite the formal switch to an all-proportional voting system, the new electoral code will eventually contain certain elements that will make it possible for odious local strongmen not campaigning along political lines to get into parliament. The presence in parliament of dozens of such lawmakers elected from single-seat constituencies today has long been criticized by the opposition. That would make it the most disgraceful electoral code as by name it will be a proportional system but in essence it will be a majoritiarian one, Sakunts said. Invited HHK members did not attend todays public discussion dealing with electoral code changes. 29 February 2016 10:24 (UTC+04:00) By Nazrin Gadimova Armenias judicial system is prone to corruption and suffers from a lack of independence, reads a new report by the Council of Europe Group of States against Corruption (GRECO). The Council underlines that corruption remains a major problem for Armenian society, highlighting the need to prevent corruption among deputies, judges and public prosecutors. There are numerous reports regarding the lack of independence of the judiciary in practice, both from external actors such as the executive power at central and local levels (including law enforcement agencies), as well as from internal judicial actors notably, higher-instance court judges. On the other hand, serious concerns have been raised concerning improper influence on judges through bribes and gifts. To further increase the transparency of processes, the organization called on lawmakers to adopt a code of conduct of Deputies. "Procedures for the selection of judges, prosecutors, including the prosecutor general, require further improvement. The immunity of judges shall be limited to activities related to the implementation of justice, the report says. The point that one of the main problems of destroying the statehood of the Republic of Armenia is corruption, I must definitely mention, by intertwined monopoly or abuse of dominant position holding people, in the economy; it is a simple truth, MP Tigran Urikhanyan told Armenian media while commenting on the report. -- Nazrin Gadimova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @NazrinGadimova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 09:38 (UTC+04:00) Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has received a delegation led by Claudio De Vincenti, State Secretary of the Italian Council of Ministers. Expressing his confidence that the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council to be held in Baku would be fruitful and give good results, President Aliyev stressed the importance of the fact that the delegation led by De Vincenti would also attend the event. The Italian official said he was pleased to attend the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council to be held in Baku. He recalled Italian Prime Minister Matteo Renzi`s last year meeting with President Ilham Aliyev, and extended the Prime Minister`s greetings and best wishes to the head of state. He said the Southern Gas Corridor was of strategic importance to both Italy and the European Union. Claudio De Vincenti voiced Italy`s support for the project, particularly the construction of Trans-Adriatic pipeline, adding that the country would take all necessary steps on this front. He also emphasized the significance of the project in terms of diversification of energy supply and transportation. The sides pointed to high-level cooperation between Azerbaijan and Italy in the field of culture. The importance of Azerbaijani First Lady Mehriban Aliyeva`s role in this regard was hailed. They also discussed Azerbaijan-Italy energy cooperation, work done and outstanding tasks under the Southern Gas Corridor project. President Ilham Aliyev thanked for the greetings of Matteo Renzi, and asked Claudio De Vincenti to communicate his greetings to the Italian PM. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 11:04 (UTC+04:00) By Aynur Karimova The European Union has expressed a clear interest to work with Azerbaijan on energy, regional security, the rule of law and fundamental freedoms. Our European Union and Azerbaijan share a clear interest in deepening our relationship, Federica Mogherini, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, told Trend on February 27 before her visit to Baku to join the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting on February 29. We aim at a broad and comprehensive agreement, and I believe that the past few months have signaled a turning point in our discussions: some difficulties remain, but we are much closer now on the need to have economic and political cooperation going hand in hand, she stated. Mogherini also said the preparatory consultations for new partnership of the EU and Azerbaijan are progressing well. I believe that we will soon have a discussion with the EU Member States on the launch of negotiations, she noted. Azerbaijan expects to receive the EU Council's mandate to negotiate on a new agreement on strategic modernization partnership, which will determine the format of the future cooperation with the EU. The Azerbaijani government submitted a draft agreement to the EU in May 2015 as part of the Eastern Partnership summit in Riga, Azerbaijani Deputy Foreign Minister Mahmud Mammadguliyev said earlier adding that we are expecting now to obtain a mandate from the highest political body of the EU to start the negotiation process. Currently, the bilateral relations between the EU and Azerbaijan are regulated on the basis of agreement on partnership and cooperation, which was signed in 1996. A new agreement envisages the adjustment of Azerbaijans legislation and procedures to the EUs most important international and trade norms and standards, which should lead to an improvement in the access of Azerbaijani goods to the EU markets. SGC Speaking about the EU energy security, Mogherini said that the Southern Gas Corridor is vital to energy security strategy of the union, adding that it brings further diversification to the EU networks, and also offers a possibility to deepen political, economic and social ties with a number of partners in the region of the union. Azerbaijan-initiated Southern Gas Corridor project envisages the transportation of the gas extracted at the giant Shah Deniz field in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. Shah Deniz Stage 2 gas will make a 3,500 kilometer journey from the Caspian Sea into Europe. This requires upgrading the existing infrastructure and the development of a chain of new pipelines. The existing South Caucasus Pipeline will be expanded with a new parallel pipeline across Azerbaijan and Georgia, while the Trans-Anatolian pipeline will transport Shah Deniz gas across Turkey to meet the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline, which will take gas through Greece and Albania into Italy. The Southern Gas Corridor is set to change the energy map of the entire region, connecting gas supplies in the Caspian to markets in Europe for the very first time. The first gas supplies through the corridor to Georgia and Turkey are given a target date of late 2018. Gas deliveries to Europe are expected just over a year after the first gas is produced offshore in Azerbaijan. Mogherini believes that the signing of the 'Ashgabat Declaration' in May 2015 was an important step to ensure additional gas supplies from the Caspian region in the future. Further progress is being made in this regard: an active working group at vice-ministerial level has met in the course of 2015 and again just a few days ago, she noted. Nagorno-Karabakh Speaking about the Armenia-Azerbaijan Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, Mogherini said a peaceful solution to the conflict, in accordance with international law, remains a top EU priority. The conflict between the two South Caucasus countries began in 1988 when Armenia made territorial claims against Azerbaijan. As a result of the ensuing war, in 1992 Armenian armed forces occupied 20 percent of Azerbaijan, including the Nagorno-Karabakh region and seven surrounding districts. Mogherini said the OSCE Minsk Group is a format accepted by all sides, and endorsed by the UN Security Council. The co-chairs have launched new mediation efforts: our support to this process, including through the EU Special Representative Herbert Salber, has been, and will continue to be, unwavering, she added. The EU will also keep supporting peace-building activities and people-to-people contacts. "There is no contradiction between these activities and the efforts of the Minsk Group; both are important for long-term reconciliation," she stated. Mogherini also expressed her solidarity with all the people affected by this conflict. An entire generation has grown up without knowing the true meaning of the word "peace", she said. It is no secret that the current status quo is unsustainable. Over the past year we have witnessed an escalation of violence along the line of contact: no one can afford to keep going down this path. The EU representative also believes that a central part of the talks within the Minsk Group is to find agreement on practical steps towards a comprehensive settlement of the conflict. Only a few months ago, in December 2015, both President Aliyev and President Sargsyan confirmed they will keep engaging on current proposals, Mogherini said. This is vital: ultimately, it is up to your countries' leaders to show courage and move towards peace. Everyone has a duty to refrain from provocative statements and to work to de-escalate the situation on the ground, Mogherini believes. Over the past year heavy weapons were used, civilians were targeted, she said. The current instability has huge costs for both sides. Peace, on the other hand, would allow for the opening of borders, facilitate trade and communications. Peace could make your region a prosperous gateway between Europe and Asia. -- Aynur Karimova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Aynur_Karimova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 11:36 (UTC+04:00) Nathan Deal, the Governor of the U.S. State of Georgia signed a statement recognizing the Khojaly massacre and honoring its innocent victims. "I wish to express my own sympathies for the senseless loss of life that transpired 24 years ago. On behalf of the State of Georgia, I join you in mourning their loss," reads the statement, which has been received by the Consulate General of Azerbaijan in Los Angeles. Khojaly, the second largest town in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of Azerbaijan, came under intense fire from the towns of Khankendi and Askeran already occupied by the Armenian armed forces in 1992. As many as 613 civilians mostly women and children were killed in the massacre, and a total of 1,000 people were disabled. Eight families were exterminated, 25 children lost both parents, and 130 children lost one parent. Moreover, 1,275 innocent people were taken hostage, and the fate of 150 of them remains unknown. " Azerbaijan experienced a brutal massacre resulting in the death of over 600 civilians. Events like this are important to remember, and the lives lost in this tragedy should be honored as we strive to ensure that similar act of horrendous violence do not happen again. I hope that the Azerbaijani community continues to educate Georgians and others about this day in our past that can teach us much in the present," the document further notes. The Governor concludes his statement by stressing "May we never allow such a tragedy to stain the pages of our history again." This is the second statement by the Governor of Georgia on the Khojaly massacre. The first document was issued in 2015. To date, 21 U.S. states have issued gubernatorial proclamations/statements or passed resolutions recognizing the Khojaly massacre. Armenia occupied over 20 percent of Azerbaijan's internationally recognized territory, including Nagorno-Karabakh and seven adjacent regions, after laying territorial claims against its South Caucasus neighbor that caused a brutal war in the early 1990s. Long-standing efforts by the U.S., Russian and French mediators have been largely fruitless so far. The UN Security Council has adopted four resolutions on Armenia's withdrawal from Azerbaijani territory, but they have not been enforced to this day. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 14:53 (UTC+04:00) By Aynur Karimova The Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Second Ministerial Meeting started in Baku on February 29. President Ilham Aliyev joined the meeting. The energy ministers and representatives of various organizations from the Southern Gas Corridor member-states took part in the meeting as well. Addressing the event Ian Bradshaw, the TAP Managing Director, said the groundbreaking ceremony for the Trans-Adriatic Pipeline is expected to take place in late May-early June 2016 in Greek city of Thessaloniki. We have achieved great progress in Greece. With the help of the Government of Greece the pipes will be delivered by the end of April 2016, and the groundbreaking will start in the middle of the year, he noted. In terms of access, Greece has provided necessary conditions for the successful start of the project. The 878 km TAP pipeline will transport Azerbaijani natural gas from the giant Shah Deniz 2 field through the last leg of the Southern Gas Corridor, connecting with the Trans-Anatolian Pipeline at the Turkish-Greek border at Kipoi and then crossing Greece, Albania and the Adriatic Sea, before coming ashore in Southern Italy. Bradshaw said the supply of pipes to Albania is also expected in late April-early May 2016. In his remarks, Jan van Bilsen, the regional manager of the International Finance Corporation for the South Caucasus, said the Southern Gas Corridor is a landmark strategic project to open up gas supplies to new markets and contributing to energy security of the Southern-East Europe. Bilsen noted that the IFC has not yet made an investment decision concerning the Southern Gas Corridor project. We welcome an opportunity to participate in this meeting and to understand the potential role which IFC could play in the project, he added. The Azerbaijan-initiated Southern Gas Corridor project envisages the transportation of the gas extracted at the giant Shah Deniz field in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. Shah Deniz Stage 2 gas will make a 3,500 kilometer journey from the Caspian Sea into Europe. This requires upgrading the existing infrastructure and the development of a chain of new pipelines. The first gas supplies through the corridor to Georgia and Turkey are given a target date of late 2018. Gas deliveries to Europe are expected just over a year after the first gas is produced offshore in Azerbaijan. Massimo DEufemia, the European Investment Bank's official representative, in turn, said the Bank is working closely with European Commission, and it is attaching highest consideration to the timely realization of the Southern Gas Corridor. "As all the participants have stated, this project is key infrastructure for the region and also for Europe," DEufemia said, adding that the Southern Gas Corridor will secure new energy sources to Europe, a well as announce new competition in the gas market. Last year, the EIB closely worked with both TANAP and TAP and is focusing its efforts on these two projects. "We also want to assure that there will be EIB's long-term funds and resources for successful completion of these projects, and we're also considering financing the other components of the Southern Gas Corridor," he added. Speaking at the event, Afgan Isayev, the Chief Executive Director of the Southern Gas Corridor Company, said despite the global economic challenges faced by the commodity exporting countries, Azerbaijan's national economy is still resuming and continues to be resuming. He said that economic diversification remains core policy objective and new reforms will spear the continuing development of the non oil sector. The government will continue to announce new reforms in this area, Isayev said. Neal McCain, head of Baku office of the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, in turn, said the EBRD remains committed to supporting Azerbaijan in its efforts to diversify its economy. Baku hosted the first Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council meeting on February 12 in 2015, during which the issues of further promotion of the project and the problems that may arise in its implementation were discussed. Three plenary sessions and a round table will be held as part of the second meeting. Maros Sefcovic, the Vice-President for Energy Union, Berat Albayrak, the Turkish Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Amos Hochstein, the U.S. Special Envoy for Energy Affairs of the State Department, Edmund Hosker, the Director General for International Energy Issues of the UK Energy and Climate Change Department, Claudio De Vincenti, the State Secretary of the Council of Ministers of Italy and others are among the event participants. Maros Sefcovic and Natig Aliyev, Azerbaijan's Energy Minister will make statements for the press. 29 February 2016 14:43 (UTC+04:00) Azerbaijans President Ilham Aliyev received Turkish Energy and Natural Resources Minister Berat Albayrak on February 29, Azertac state news agency reported. The sides voiced satisfaction with the highest level of friendly and fraternal relations between the two countries in all fields, including energy sector. They hailed the successful implementation of TANAP project in accordance with the schedule, and also exchanged views on cooperation prospects. President Aliyev received EU Commission Vice-President for Energy Union Maros Sefcovic. The sides expressed their satisfaction with the dynamic development of cooperation between Azerbaijan and the European Union. They stressed the importance of the second meeting of the ministers as part of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council. The significance of Maros Sefcovic's participation in the meeting was emphasized. The sides also exchanged views on the current state and prospects of the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project. President Aliyev also received the delegation led by Amos Hochstein, the Special Envoy and Coordinator for International Energy Affairs of the US State Department. The president said that the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council being held in Baku, is a successful format for holding joint discussions on the projects implementation. Highlighting the significance of the U.S. governments support to the project, President Aliyev emphasized the importance of Hochsteins participation in this event. The president expressed hope that this event will bring good results. Amos Hochstein, for his part, voiced satisfaction with the invitation to the second meeting of the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council. Stressing the effectiveness of last years meeting, he said that the ongoing event is very significant in this important period for the project. Hochstein added that the meeting has created a good opportunity to exchange views on various issues related to the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project. During the day, the president also received Kakha Kaladze, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Energy of Georgia. The sides hailed the high level of Azerbaijani-Georgian energy projects, and pointed to the successful realization of the Southern Gas Corridor. They hailed the successful implementation of joint projects between the two countries not only in energy sector, but in a number of other areas. They emphasized that the two countries would continue their cooperation as strategic partners --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 15:30 (UTC+04:00) The second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting kicked off in Baku on February 29. Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev has attended the meeting. He emphasized the significance of holding this event and added that it will focus on the work done in previous years and future tasks. The president noted that high-level and successful coordination work was carried out between the projects participants following the last years meeting. President Aliyev recalled that the groundbreaking ceremony for TANAP project was held in 2015 and added that this project plays an important role in the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor. He noted that the implementation of the Southern Gas Corridor project will make it possible to even more expand the beneficial cooperation between Azerbaijan, Georgia, Turkey and other countries. Today, energy security holds an important place in world politics and on the agenda of international organizations, according to Azerbaijans president. He noted that Azerbaijan remains committed to all its obligations and even more develops the principles of market economy. Ilham Aliyev said that energy cooperation cant be a political requirement and this issue should be free of any political format. Azerbaijan has created a strong cooperation between the projects participants and this cooperation will create opportunities to achieve success in other spheres of economy as well, according to Ilham Aliyev. The president added that energy security plays an important role in relations with the European Union. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 18:27 (UTC+04:00) By Amina Nazarli The first youth scientific-practical conference entitled "The creative potential of young people in aviation issues" was held in Baku on February 29. Organized by Azerbaijan Airlines, Azerbaijan Engineering Academy and Azercosmos the event is aimed at enhancing the role of youth in aviation. The two-day conference will organize seminars and workshops on various subjects. The first day of the conference started with the exhibition called Aircraft modeling as well as NanoArt and Tessellation by famous physicist Imameddin Amiraslanov. Greeting the participants at the plenary session, Rector of the National Aviation Academy, Academician Arif Pashayev highlighted the importance of the conference. He said that the lectures and workshops organized in the framework of the conference will further enhance the role of young people in aviation issues. Speaking about the activity of the Academy, Pashayev noted that here, young professionals learn the secrets of this sphere based on the latest technologies. Addressing the meeting, Rector of Moscow State Technical University named after Bauman, Anatoly Alexandrov and others also spoke about the importance of the conference. Azerbaijan, the South Caucasus's most developed economy, is keen on developing civil aviation. AZAL has invested about $15 billion in developing the aviation sector over the last 10 years. The company also has a very modern aviation training center, AZAL Training, which was founded in 2010, and equipped with advanced teaching aids and sophisticated aviation training simulators to ensure comprehensive training at all advancement levels for AZALs personnel. The total route network of AZAL, one of the aviation community leaders in the CIS area, includes 40 destinations in 19 countries. Last June, the airline received a prestigious "4 Stars" from the leader in air transport research, the world-famous British consulting company Skytrax for its services. -- Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 13:20 (UTC+04:00) By Nazrin Gadimova Azerbaijan achieved 6.6-percent growth in the volume of agricultural production in 2015. Bakhish Ahmadov, the head of the department of state support for agriculture at the Agriculture Ministry announced about this while talking to local media. Ahmadov added that the development of agriculture is one of the priority directions for the country. Azerbaijan, which is keen to diminish its dependence on the oil sector, sees the agricultural sector as a central direction in a bid to diversify the national economy. "Azerbaijan supports the development of agriculture at the state level, as well as implements various agricultural projects aimed at increasing volume of domestic production and expanding range of the goods, he stressed, reminding that such projects are source of new jobs. Ahmadov further said that the Ministry is taking different steps aimed at developing the agricultural sector in different regions of the country. Farmers are provided with high quality seeds and fertilizers, as well as supplies of materials and machinery for the regional agricultural departments improved. We were given a task to bring agriculture to the next level, he said, adding that last year was remembered with the expansion of the state support for agricultural development. Ahmadov noted that Agroleasing OJSC provides 40 percent discount on the initial cost of the agricultural equipment. Last year more than 4,000 technical equipment users managed to get the benefits worth $31.9 million. Over the last two years, about 7,000 units of farming plant mainly manufactured in Europe have been purchased and leased, he emphasized. As you know, the government provides subsidies for fuel and engine oil. The amount of subsidies granted for this purpose has been increased by 25 percent, Ahamov added. Moreover, the official said this year the government would begin to pay 40 percent of the modern irrigation systems value. "This support of the state is necessary because in this case, we will move from the traditional method of irrigation, which leads to salinization and disintegration of soil, to the modern method of irrigation that saves water resources," Ahmadov stressed. Also, the breeders will be given a subsidy in the amount of $63.8 for every calf born using artificial insemination, he added. Moreover, Azerbaijan is keen on developing electronic agriculture, an emerging field focused on the enhancement of agricultural and rural development through improved information and communication processes. E-agriculture involves the conceptualization, design, development, evaluation and application of innovative ways to use information and communication technologies in the rural domain, with a primary focus on agriculture. The agricultural sector is important in Azerbaijan not only to increase export potential, but also to restore and protect the countrys food security. Enjoying advantageous geographic location Azerbaijan has all possibilities to increase food security and production in the country. As a result of agrarian reforms carried out in Azerbaijan, the guarantees were made for the dynamic development of agriculture. -- Nazrin Gadimova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @NazrinGadimova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 14:16 (UTC+04:00) By Amina Nazarli Would you like to plunge into the ancient history of Azerbaijan and get acquainted with the art, lifestyle, and culture of great Azerbaijani nation? Then you should necessarily visit the Museum of Archeology and Ethnography. This unique museum, located in front of the tower gates Gosha Gala Gapisi in the Icherisheher [Old City], is open on weekdays from 11am to 17pm for free to all lovers of history. The museum's exhibits allow to see a complete picture of the primitive peoples camps, living areas, settlements belonging to pastoralists and farmers, as well as gravestones, early urban culture, historical and material culture of the ancient states. The museum, founded in 1976, got a second wind after restoration in 2008-2009. Valeh Alakbarov, a fellow worker of the Scientific Exposition Department of the Archaeology and Ethnography Institute, said that the museums exhibits are updated every year thanks to artifacts discovered in Gobustan, Azikh cave, Kamiltepe, Geytepe, Karabakh mound as well as Soyugbulag mound, the most ancient burial mounds in the South Caucasus, and other sites of ancient people. The items found during excavations are cleaned, washed, dried, restored, inventoried and then transferred to the Museum. The scientific exposition department of the museum every year replaces about 1,000-2,000 exhibits. He went to add that to determine the age of the artifacts specialists use different methods including radiocarbon analysis, which is mainly conducted in France, the U.S., Turkey, Japan and Russia. Alekperov and his wife, who is a restorer, participate in the archeological diggings in Geytepe excavations for the sixth year. Sometimes we have to work under difficult conditions - at 40-degree summer heat. However, the passion of the work helps not to feel any heat or fatigue, Alakbarov explains. One of the ancient exhibits of the museum are the materials related to the Guruchay culture dating back to about 1.2 million years. The museum also keeps items of the Shulaveri-Shomutepin culture included in the UNESCO archaeological cultures list. Soon, the Museum plans to install monitors with detailed information near each showcase. The museum also plans to host an exhibition of items collected over the last two years. Holding of themed exhibitions, devoted to items found in several monuments of material culture are expected. Museums Director Farkhad Guliyev believes it will be great to expand the museum area. Then, in addition to the exhibits, there will be installed mannequins and models necessary for the reconstruction of a historical period. This will allow visitors to immerse themselves in the life of our ancestors. By mid-March, visitors will enjoy an opportunity not only to see the exhibits, but also view the movie showing the process of archaeological excavations. At the moment, all the necessary equipment is installed and montage work is underway, he said. Guliyev further said that many foreign tourists visit the Museum. During the major 1st European Games held in Baku last summer, more than 2,500 foreign guests got familiarized themselves with the museum, he said adding that the museum is very popular among visitors from France, Germany, the U.S. and Russia. -- Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 10:00 (UTC+04:00) The European Commission's Energy Union strategy on a more efficient use of gas is on track, the EU Commission Vice-President for Energy Union Maros Sefcovic said in a telephone interview with Trend. Sefcovic will pay official visit to Baku to participate in the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting on Feb. 29. "We have presented two quite important legislative packages," he said. "First one was last year, which was very much related to the agenda of the anti-climate change, where we proposed to reform our emissions trading system." "This year we adopted the security of the gas supply package, presented with a new directive to make sure that whatever the circumstances in the future, the supply of gas would be secure for all member states," Sefcovic said. "We also presented new rules for intergovernmental agreements and commercial contracts, new LNG strategy, as well as new strategy on heating and cooling," he said. "This is where Europe consumes 50 percent of its energy, and here we would like to see more savings in the future," he added. Sefcovic went on to add that Energy Union will present additional packages on improved energy efficiency, new electricity market design, de-carbonization of transport in Europe. "We plan to deliver in all these commitments and we plan to do so, so that by the end of the second year we would be having on the table 90 percent of what we promised under the Energy Union strategy," he said. "The project has a lot of support from the member states," Sefcovic said. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 16:06 (UTC+04:00) By Aynur Karimova The European Union, which eyes diversifying natural gas supply routes for decreasing energy dependence from Russia, has intensified talks to get blue fuel from energy-rich Turkmenistan with the governments and relevant agencies of Azerbaijan, Turkey, Georgia and Turkmenistan. Maros Sefcovic, European Commissions vice-president for Energy Union believes that the negotiations on delivery of Turkmen blue fuel to European consumers are progressing quite well. We are currently working together with Azerbaijan, Turkey, Georgia and Turkmenistan on the ways how Turkmenistan could become also a supplier of the gas for Europe, and how we can use the Southern Gas Corridor route for the deliveries, Sefcovic told Trend on February 28. Turkmenistan, being one of the key players in the gas market of the Caspian Sea region and Central Asia, produces about 70-80 billion cubic meters of gas a year. It sits on some 17 trillion cubic meters of natural gas, with some estimates placing that figure upwards of 25 or 26 trillion cubic meters. Given the country's huge reserves and plans to diversify routes, Turkmenistan has been consistently promoting the Western vector of energy partnership. The country is considering the European market as one of the most promising areas of gas supply. EU countries, in turn, attach great importance to the development of cooperation with Turkmenistan. Given the mutual interest of the sides, the partnership between Turkmenistan and the EU promises to be very perspective and mutually beneficial in the near future. We started the so-called Ashgabat declaration process last year, where we set up the working group which is looking for all the possible options, legal and economical issues linked with this question, Sefcovic said further commenting on the issue. This expert group had its last meeting few days ago in Istanbul, where two options of how Turkmen gas could be supplied to Europe were put on the table. Sefcovic believes that the possibility of Turkmen gas delivery to Europe should be assessed by all the governments. He also expressed hope that the interested sides will come to this discussion back quite soon. I think the priority would be to make sure that Southern Gas Corridor is built on time and there is a possibility to make it even ahead of the schedule, and also to see how we can make sure that the Southern Gas Corridor opens possibility for Turkmenistan to supply gas to Europe as well, he stated. The long-awaited Trans-Caspian gas pipeline project is widely regarded as the optimal option to deliver Turkmen blue fuel under the Caspian through Azerbaijan to European consumers. It is proposed to connect the 300-kilometer Trans-Caspian pipeline to the Southern Gas Corridor, envisaging transportation of blue fuel extracted at the giant Shah Deniz field in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea. The negotiations between the EU, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan on the Trans-Caspian gas pipeline began in September 2011 and accelerated after the Ukraine crisis. When the EU began to impose sanctions against Russia, the EU expressed interest in the implementation of the pipeline. Europe sees this route as an opportunity do decrease dependence on Russian gas, while Azerbaijan is interested in the construction of the Trans-Caspian Pipeline as it can gain huge benefits from the transportation of Turkmen gas via its territory. Experts believe that Turkmenistan and Azerbaijan have every opportunity to implement the project within bilateral activities. Other suppliers Sefcovic further said the new developments in Iraq, Iran and East Mediterranean also create an opportunity to receive gas from new potential suppliers. But of course, in the end what would need to be judged would be overall demand of the gas in Europe, which we projected for 2030 to be more or less the same as it is today, that is from 380 billion cubic meters to 450 billion cubic meters per annum, and of course what would be the most cost efficient way, how to supply this gas to Europe or to use the Southern Gas Corridor, or to go and use the LNG alternatives, he noted. Touching upon the possibility of supply of Iranian gas to Europe, Sefcovic said Tehran will firstly focus on returning to the global oil markets, as domestic gas demand is quite high in the Islamic Republic. Iran is one of the countries where gas represents more than 60 percent in domestic energy mix, and despite the fact that it has one of the biggest gas reserves in the world, Iran is currently in a position of net importer, which, I am sure, will change in the near future, he added. He stressed that the LNG supplies would be most practical and most probable way for Iran to enter the European gas market, because gas fields are primarily located in the south of that country. For Europe, most important issues would be the quality of services, reliability of supplies and price of gas, Sefcovic stressed. We want to be open to all potential suppliers. Irans proven gas reserve stood at 34 trillion cubic meters as of early 2015, according to BP. The countrys share on the world gas market is 17 percent. After Iran was freed of international sanctions in January 2016, the country has expressed desire to supply gas to Europe. For many years, the Islamic Republic has pursued multiple projects to pipe natural gas to European consumers. Earlier, Iran stated that LNG export to Europe is its priority. The National Iranian Gas Exports Company plans to construct five plants for LNG production within three years. -- Aynur Karimova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Aynur_Karimova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 13:53 (UTC+04:00) By Aynur Karimova Azerbaijan's state energy giant SOCAR's signing two memorandums of understanding with National Iranian Oil Company and Ghadir Investment Company as part of President Ilham Aliyev's Tehran visit on February 23 promise new opportunities and prospects for cooperation of the two countries in the energy sector. Iranian Deputy Oil Minister Rokneddin Javadi believes that the oil swap deal signed between the NIOC and SOCAR will enter into force soon. Iran is about to resume oil swap with Azerbaijan after a gap of five years, importing crude into Caspian ports and supplying equivalent barrels on behalf of its Azerbaijani partners in the Persian Gulf. The two sides will also cooperate in the Caspian Sea, particularly in the spheres of research and development, Fars News Agency quoted Javadi as saying last week. In August 2015, Irans Oil Minister Bijan Namdar Zanganeh expressed Iran's readiness to carry out swap deliveries of Azerbaijans oil to the Gulf region. He said oil could be transported from Irans Neka port on the Caspian Sea via pipeline with a capacity of pumping 500,000 barrels per day to the Tehran Oil Refinery, noting in return, Azerbaijan could deliver oil to the southern borders of Iran. Iran plans to resume swap of oil products, primarily natural gas liquids, with Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan as well. The port of Neka located in northern Iran has an import capacity for crude swaps with the Caspian states of Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan and Russia. The Caspian oil swap started in 1997 and was in place for more than 12 years. Under the arrangement, Iran received crude from Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan and Turkmenistan in the Neka port for processing in its northern refineries and delivered an equivalent volume to the clients of those countries in the Persian Gulf. The average daily swap was 90,000 barrels in 2009, which Iran planned to raise to 300,000 barrels per day by 2015. Iran also charged the partners with a transit fee which totaled $880 million between 1997 and 2009. -- Aynur Karimova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Aynur_Karimova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 17:57 (UTC+04:00) By Aynur Karimova Tbilisi eyes an opportunity to agree on supply of more blue fuel from Azerbaijan, which is Georgia's main gas supplier with a specific weight of 74.9 percent of total gas imports. Georgian Energy Minister Kakha Kaladze believes that the two South Caucasus neighbors will reach an agreement on this issue "one of these days." Addressing the Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Second Ministerial Meeting in Baku on February 29, Kaladze said that Georgia has been negotiating with a consortium of Shah Deniz for several months on increasing the volume of Azerbaijani gas supplies. "The matter rests in additional 400-500 million cubic meters per year," he said. Currently, Georgia is discussing with Gazprom the possibility for the Russian side to pay for gas transit to Armenia in money. We get 10 percent of Russian supplies volume and renew the contract every year, Kaladze said. Azerbaijan is Georgia's strategic partner, and we have established long-term friendly relations. Unfortunately, some forces use such moments to spoil relations between the two countries. But they wont succeed." Russian gas deliveries to Georgia are carried out only in the form of payment for its transit to Armenia, for which the country is supplied with 10 percent of total shipments. Gazprom supplied 300 million cubic meters of gas to Georgia in 2014. Daily gas consumption in Georgia exceeds 11 million cubic meters per day and about 2.5 billion cubic meters per year. Last year, the country imported 1.51 million tons of oil equivalent of natural gas in the amount of $314.3 million from Azerbaijan. On an annualized basis, the volumes of Georgian natural gas imports from Azerbaijan in terms of value increased by 9.4 percent, in quantitative terms by 127,170 tons of oil equivalent, or by 9.2 percent. Annual growth of the Georgian market is up to 10 percent or maximum 250 million cubic meters per year. With such a growth rate, gas consumption in the country will reach five billion cubic meters in the next 10 years. No doubt that this amount is not beyond the power of Azerbaijan, which enjoys huge gas resources. In this regard, Azerbaijan plans to additionally supply 500 million cubic meters of gas a year to Georgia. Previously, we supplied 800 million cubic meters of gas a year to Georgia from the Shah Deniz, said Rovnag Abdullayev, Head of Azerbaijan's state energy giant SOCAR. We have managed to increase the supply through that route to 1.5 billion cubic meters as well as to 1.5 billion cubic meters via a pipeline connecting the two countries in Azerbaijans Gazakh region. Currently, there is an opportunity to additionally obtain 500-700 million cubic meters of gas from the Shah Deniz consortium. We can use a part of that gas volume in Azerbaijan and supply another part to Georgia and Turkey, Abdullayev added. Earlier, Azerbaijan did not manage to technically increase gas supply to Georgia, he said. Taking the possibilities into account, SOCAR held negotiations with the Shah Deniz consortium and it was decided to increase the supply in winter and summer periods to 70 percent to 30 percent ratio (earlier 60 percent to 40 percent ratio). Azerbaijan supplies gas to Georgia via the Hajigabul-Gardabani pipeline with a gas pumping capacity of 6.5 million cubic meters per day. The second way carrying gas to Georgian consumers is the Baku-Tbilisi-Erzurum (South Caucasus) Pipeline, through which the gas from the first stage of the Shah Deniz field is supplied to Georgia and a large proportion goes through its territory to Turkey. No talks on gas purchase from Iran Georgia, which enjoys significant transit potential for delivering hydrocarbon resources of the Caspian basin, has recently expressed interest in transiting Iranian blue fuel to Europe. Despite the fact that earlier Kaladze said his country can import Iranian gas either through Azerbaijan or through Armenia, he told Trend on February 29 that currently, Georgia is not in talks on the purchase of Iranian gas due to high prices. The Iranian gas prices are not competitive, so the issue on the purchase of Iranian gas can only be discussed in the future, Kaladze noted adding that in the future, transportation of Iranian gas will be possible through the territory of Azerbaijan. In mid-February, Alireza Kameli, the Head of the National Iranian Gas Export Company, said the Islamic Republic is considering a plan to export 200 million cubic meters of gas to Georgia in a course of seven months. He further said that Tehran and Tbilisi would consider signing a long-term deal, if they find a short-term gas deal economically justified. Iran plans to increase gas production to 1.1 billion cubic meters per day by 2018. -- Aynur Karimova is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Aynur_Karimova Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 10:54 (UTC+04:00) HE Kairat Lama Sharif, the Ambassador of Kazakhstan to the UAE emphasized the importance of strong UAE-Kazakhstan relations, revealing that the UAE investments in Kazakhstan crossed AED 2 billion according to the Kazakhstani Ministry of Investment and Development. He elaborated that trade exchange recorded USD 135 million by the end of 2015. HE Lama Sharif unveiled that Kazakhstan is willing to extend the validity of the UAE visitors stay to 30 days, instead of the regular 15-day permit. This is in addition to the fact that UAE nationals are exempted from visa to Kazakhstan since July 2014. This was revealed on the sidelines of a delegation visit headed by HE Lama Sharif to Dawood Al Shezawi, President of Annual Investment Meeting (AIM), one of the worlds leading Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) - focused platform. AIM Higher Organising Committee, in collaboration with the Embassy of the Republic of Kazakhstan to the UAE, presented to around 70 of Kazakhstani businessmen and investors details about 14 additional investment activities to be added during the 6th edition of AIM, calling them to take part in the regions most prominent FDI event. HE Kairat Lama Sharif assured their eagerness to facilitate Kazakhstani delegations to attend AIM annually, pointing out that the Kazakhstani participation in the 6th edition of AIM will be of broader scale. HE Lama Sharif revealed that the city of Almaty, the largest city and financial center in Kazakhstan, is seeking to establish bilateral relations with Dubai Municipality to help businessmen in Kazakhstan to activate economic relations with Emirati investors. HE Lama Sharif says Kazakhstan sees great importance in UAE presence in Expo Astana 2017, which will be held in the capital Astana from 10th of June until the 10th of September 2017. The expo's official theme "Future Energy" will be on focus, so we see the UAE as an essential participant in this event, in the sense that the country will be hosting the World Expo 2020. The UAE is home to the IRENA The International Renewable Energy Agency regional headquarters, and has prominent projects in this domain. In addition, Astana city will host the Astana Expo-2017 in conjunction with the opening of the Abu Dhabi Plaza, a development that is expected to be the tallest building in Central Asia, added HE Lama Sharif. During his speech at the UAEKazakhstan Business Matching, Dawood Al Shezawi, President of AIM, called for larger Kazakhstani presence in the forthcoming global event. He stressed on the importance of Kazakhstan to participate in AIM this year by doing a Country Presentation, pointing out that Kazakhstan has recorded strong presence over the past years and provided many promising investment opportunities in the FDI sector. We look forward to further collaboration, and share the same vision in building diversified, sustainable and knowledge-based economies, he added. More than 15,000 attendees from over 140 countries will take part in the 6th edition of AIM, that will be held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai. According to Al Shezawi, participating in AIM will enhance opportunities for investors and companies from Kazakhstan to strengthen their presence in the UAE, the region and the world, and will enable Kazakh companies to establish new partnerships and expand its business in global markets through Dubai. He added that AIM is the first event of its kind in the Middle East region in terms of presenting wide number of investment opportunities in a single platform. It plays a dominant role in promoting investment in emerging markets and fast-growing economies. He pointed out that the AIM works to stimulate FDIs across the world markets, contribute to strengthening the countries' economies, and establish partnerships in various sectors and fields. The event also witnessed participation of a delegation from the city of Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan, seeking to establish bilateral relations with the UAE in sectors such as energy, oil, real estate, infrastructure, telecommunications, transportation and logistics. The Business Matching, which was also attended by businessmen from the UAE, saw series of presentations related to AIM 2016. Various aspects and investment opportunities in both countries were highlighted. -- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 13:32 (UTC+04:00) Georgia is not in talks on the purchase of Iranian gas for now because of high prices, Deputy Prime Minister and Georgian Energy Minister Kakha Kaladze told Trend in Baku February 29. Kaladze is participating in the second Southern Gas Corridor Advisory Council Meeting. The energy ministers and representatives of various organizations from the Southern Gas Corridor member-states, including vice-president of the European Commission for Energy Union, are participating in the meeting as well. Three plenary sessions and a round table will be held as part of the meeting. Transportation of Iranian gas to Georgia is possible via two ways, through the territory of Azerbaijan or Armenia, however, the Iranian gas prices are not competitive, so the issue on the purchase of Iranian gas can only be discussed in the future, Kaladze said. In the future, transportation of Iranian gas will be possible through the territory of Azerbaijan, the minister said. Alireza Kameli, the head of the National Iranian Gas Export Company (NIGEC), said after meeting Kaladze in Tehran on Feb. 16 that Iran is considering a plan to export 200 million cubic meters of gas to Georgia in a course of seven months. He further said that Tehran and Tbilisi would consider signing a long-term deal, if they find a short-term gas deal economically justified. Iran plans to increase gas production to 1.1 billion cubic meters per day by 2018. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 16:12 (UTC+04:00) Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif is expected to visit six Asia and the Pacific countries as of March.5. Iranian foreign ministry spokesman, Hossein Jaber Ansari said that Zarif's trips are aimed at taking advantage of the chances created for the country following the removal of international sanctions, IRNA news agency reported. Jaber Ansari further added that Zarif is expected to first arrive in Jakarta, Indonesia to attend a summit of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Member nations of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) will attend the organizations fifth extraordinary summit in Jakarta on March 6 -7 to discuss the Palestinian crisis. The foreign minister heading a large economic delegation is also expected to visit Thailand, Brunei, New Zealand, Singapore and Australia to discuss expansion of bilateral ties. Following the implementation of a nuclear agreement between Iran and the world powers a number of world leaders have visited Tehran aimed at the expansion of bilateral ties. Over the past decade in a bid to curb Irans nuclear program, the international community took measures against Tehran, including restrictions imposed on the countrys financial system, as well as industry, which have had a catastrophic impact on Iranians economic situation and life conditions. Following the long-awaited nuclear deal clinched between Tehran and the world major powers most of the international sanctions against Tehran were lifted on Jan. 16. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 16:17 (UTC+04:00) Turkish Minister of Transport, Maritime and Communication Binali Yildirim expressed his hope for a quick resumption of relations between Ankara and Moscow, Anadolu agency reported on February 29. The crisis in bilateral relations is unfavorable for both countries, he noted, adding that Ankara stands for the normalization of relations with Russia. The minister said that a significant growth in all spheres of relations between Turkey and Russia was observed until this crisis. The relations between Russia and Turkey have deteriorated following the SU-24 incident. Following this, Russian president signed a decree on measures to ensure the national security and special economic measures against Turkey. --- Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 29 February 2016 11:24 (UTC+04:00) By Amina Nazarli Azerbaijans tourism industry is growing rapidly year after year, and today Bakus streets are often filled with foreign tourists with backpacks and cameras, photographing the beauty of the city. This year the Land of Fire may see even more tourists from the northern neighbor Russia, since the Azerbaijani travel office "Tour a Vent" established in Moscow is expected to contribute to increasing the number of Russian travelers visiting Azerbaijan. The presentation of the company was held in Moscow with participation of more than 100 Russian travel agencies. Opening the event, Azerbaijani Ambassador to Russia Polad Bulbuloglu stressed that the country pays great attention to tourism past years. We have wonderful sea, beautiful sandy beaches and excellent ski resorts. There are tours that provide an opportunity for hunting. But most importantly, Azerbaijan is renowned for its cuisine. Our kitchen is a phenomenon in the world, he said. Baku was among Top five cities that Russians anticipated to visit this year, according to the Travel.ru website. Moreover, the website named picturesque Baku among Top 10 foreign cities for weekend travel. The City of Winds became the best in the category of the most economical city for tourism in weekend, with the average cost of hotel accommodation of $20. Tourism and Culture Tourism Abulfaz Garayev recently said that Russian travel agencies are interested in tourism opportunities of Azerbaijan, what means that the country has a chance to become the most visited in the region. The Land of Fire now is more affordable, as after the devaluation of the manat, hotels and tourism agencies decreased their cost. Moreover, Azerbaijan does not require visa for Russians to enjoy the country. Here Russian-speaking tourists will have no problem with communication, as Azerbaijanis speak Russian well enough to help with any difficulties. Russian tourists make more than 30 percent of the total tourists visiting the country. Now after Egypt's and Turkeys beaches became inaccessible, Russian tourists seek new destinations for traveling. Its seems that many Russians will re-direct their tourism plans to Azerbaijan to enjoy blue and sunny Caspian Sea. -- Amina Nazarli is AzerNews staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @amina_nazarli Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz 3.0 ( - - ): editor [at] bahrainmirror.com Thank you for reading! Please log in, or sign up for a new account and purchase a subscription to continue reading. A sugar supply crisis in Europe is almost certain, bakers have been warned. The EU needs to take action to avoid sugar shortages, according to the Committee of European Sugar Users (CIUS), a group representing more than 15,000 companies. CIUS members purchase and use almost 70% of Europes annual consumption of sugar. Sugar supplies must be boosted by the EU, because stockpiles are set to fall below levels from 2009-10 and 2010-11, when users faced a severe supply crisis, according to a statement from CIUS. Inventories may drop to a record low if imports fail to meet EU forecasts, it said. This is not the first time that CIUS has spoken out against EU production quotas, which cap supply to around 80% of its needs. Strict rules govern the use of any production that is in excess of this, known as out-of-quota sugar. Elsewhere, the return of European sugar exports to world markets next year will be one of the biggest changes in the sector since reforms in 2006, when Brussels imposed production quotas and export limits. Production and export restrictions will be lifted as part of the Common Agricultural Policy reforms, and European sugar groups will be able to produce and export as much as they want. levies and duties The committee is calling on the EU to lift levies and duties applied to volumes of beet and cane sugar, made available through access to out of quota sugar stocks. During the 2009 supply crisis, retailers ran out of stocks of sugar for direct consumption. Sugar users were also directly impacted, with some companies having to temporarily suspend production lines or close down their export business. The EU could make supplies available by allowing producers to sell more in the domestic market, authorising import tenders free of duty, and suspending a levy on import quotas from certain nations, said CIUS. The European Commissions committee on agriculture markets is scheduled to meet on 3 March to discuss the sugar and grain markets. Muriel Korter, secretary general of CIUS, said: The situation is even more critical than in 2010. They [The EU] need to avoid a crisis. Earlier this month, the government reportedly abandoned plans to introduce a sugar tax, as part of its obesity strategy. CDMX Officials Shaming Unruly Residents on Periscope Mexico City police have failed to keep the capital's unruly residents from invading streets and sidewalks with their illegally parked cars, security details, and trash. So officials are resorting to the shaming power of social media. Authorities in Miguel Hidalgo, one of the city's 16 "delegations" (administrative districts), are confronting transgressors and broadcasting the interactions live on Periscope. They tag the videos with #VecinoGandalla, a Mexican term to describe someone who takes advantage of others. The goal, delegation officials say, is to hold violators accountable while being transparent about how public servants go about their work. Infractions are too often dismissed through a bribe or political favors. That's harder to do on camera, they say. Still, the technique strikes some as too transparent. The city's human-rights commission said last Tuesday (Feb. 23) it is investigating three complaints about the use of Periscope by Miguel Hidalgo officials, and asked authorities to stop publishing the likenesses and personal data of alleged lawbreakers. Exhibiting them exposes them to "unnecessary violence," damaging their human rights, the agency said in a press release. The next day the head of Miguel Hidalgo, Xochitl Galvez, respondedvia a Periscope press conference, naturallythat her delegation's social-media activities are fully protected by freedom of speech laws. The intention isn't to humiliate anyone, she said, but to defend the human rights of the majority of rule-followers who suffer from the uncivil behavior of a few. "We didn't exhibit anyone," she said. The transgressors "exhibited themselves on their own," she added. Her novel approach is tapping into pent-up frustration over the mirrey ("my king") culture that lets rich or powerful people skirt the law and bully their way out of consequences. (Miguel Hidalgo includes some of the city's most exclusive neighborhoods.) The sting operations have developed a sizable group of followers who tune in on Periscope in real time. Many of the videos, which are later posted on YouTube, rack up tens of thousands of views apiece. Training church leaders from Brazil to the ends of the earth The final project of a retiring BMS World Mission worker has helped to train thousands of church leaders in more than 25 countries It has become a worldwide phenomenon, says Dr John Dyer. Three years away from retirement as a BMS mission worker, John was given the task of setting up a project for training church leaders in the remotest parts of Brazil. Johns decision to put the training online has meant it has not only been used by church leaders in remote parts of Brazil, but also has captured the imagination of Christians all over the world. Since it was launched in March 2011, the online training course for church leaders (called the Timothy Project) has had over 1,000 registrations in 28 countries you can see on this map where the project has been and is being taught. An estimated 5,000 people have used the Timothy Project, most of whom would not have had access to theological education before because they couldnt afford it or dont have a Bible college nearby. The response from users has been incredible. The Timothy Project is a great blessing to me personally and in the work that I am doing in the Peruvian Amazon, says Luis Alvarado, pastor and mission worker with the Peruvian Baptist Convention. And this is the kind of feedback that John has received from other areas. The content is consistent, edifying and effective. God be glorified through the Timothy Project team! said one Baptist church in northern Brazil. And since then, the Timothy Project has, like the Apostle it is named after, travelled far further than the country it was born in from Central and South America to sub-Saharan Africa and even Japan. The Timothy Project is now available in Portuguese, Spanish and English, and has modules covering a range of church leadership skills from preaching biblical messages to planting churches. Most of the topics were chosen by a group of indigenous mission workers in north east Brazil that John consulted with. We are confident that the chosen themes reflect the needs of both individual church leaders and the churches where they work, John says. John co-wrote a module on creation care with his son Joao Marcos, who is an environmental consultant in Manchester. As stewards of creation, Christians have a major responsibility in relation to environmental issues and should be aware of the part they can play in preserving planet earth for this and future generations, says John. With that in mind, we felt it was timely and it was important we had this kind of material on the course. The Timothy Project is free and easy to use once registered, users can download each module to either study on their own or to teach at their church John has heard of groups of up to 60 people being taught the modules. The Timothy Project is intentionally interactive so it is relevant to the different contexts in which church leaders are serving. John is delighted that it has been so successful. It certainly has grown beyond our wildest expectations, he says. The reasons for this are an evident need for this kind of project and the quality of the material, which has been very widely praised, but also it is a project that is financially and geographically accessible for the churches it is intended to help. "There are no limits to where the Timothy Project can go. Find out more about the Timothy Project. Is your church passionate about developing effective church leaders worldwide? Find out how you can support leadership ministries through BMS Church Partners. Map photo taken from MapCustomizer (c) Patrick Kaeding This article first appeared on the website of BMS World Mission and is used with permission BMS World Mission, 29/02/2016 Sept. 15, 2022 Even though some states have decriminalized or legalized marijuana for medical or recreational use, under federal law, Marijuana remains an illegal Schedule I Controlled Substance, with a high potential for abuse and no currently accepted medical use. A fire in Odessa completely destroyed two mobile homes and damaged a third Sunday night. Pasco Fire Rescue were on scene fighting the blaze at 14427 Bella Bella Ln just after 8 p.m. Three engine companies, three water tankers, and two rescues were on hand to help put the flames out. Firefighters say the fire started in one of the mobile homes and quickly spread to the two others. One of the home owners lost two dogs to the fire. No humans were reported injured. Not a day goes by that Linda Porter doesnt think about her son, Pete Thomas. He was a wonderful kid, Porter said. He was a very accomplished lead guitarist. Thomas toured the country, playing with different bands. He was an accomplished sound technician. Thomas died when he was 38 in a New Port Richey hospital. Not only did I lose my son, but I lost my opportunity to be a grandparent, which is heartbreaking, Porter said. Thomas went to the hospital in 2004 for abdominal pain. The doctors treated his pain, Porter said. They slammed him with all these medications in an hour and a half, she said. Porter, a trained nurse, said all these medications caused her son to go into respiratory arrest. Pete Thomas (left) died in 2004 after being admitted to a New Port Richey hospital for abdominal pain. His mother Linda Porter wants to sue the hospital for medical negligence, but can't under Florida law. Not only overdosed him with one narcotic, she said. But other numerous medications that had the side effect of respiratory depression. Thomas was resuscitated, but couldnt breathe on his own. He was on a ventilator and fell into a coma. He never came out of it. Thomas died weeks later, after his family took him off of the ventilator. Thomas feels the hospital made an error in judgment when treating her son. She wanted to sue the hospital for medical negligence but found out she cant. Since Thomas was 38 years old, hes considered an adult child in the eyes of the law. Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act, Porter cant sue a healthcare provider for medical negligence in the death of her son. Thomas was 38, unmarried, and with no children. Those parents of that adult child who is not married and does not have children would have no claims to what we could call mental anguish or pain and suffering in the death of their child, said Henry Valenzuela, a Tampa attorney who is board certified in civil litigation specializing in medical negligence. Porter went to Valenzuela for help after Thomas died. She wanted to hold someone accountable for his death. I really cant do anything in this setting because the law has carved out an exception, he said. Under the Florida Wrongful Death Act, a parent of an adult child cant sue a healthcare provider for medical negligence resulting in that adult childs death. The reverse is also the same an adult child cant sue a healthcare provider for the death of their parent. Valenzuela said he gets about 10 cases a year similar to Porters case. He said when the law was written, the purpose of the exemption was to help curb health care costs. If you excluded just these two classes, that would lead to a reduction in insurance premiums and that would trickle down to a reduction in health care costs, he said. I dont believe that has been proven to be correct and I didnt think it was true back then. Valenzuela thinks the exclusions are unfair. Overall, health care is delivered well, he said. But, there are times when it is not, and in those instances, where there is truly an error, then most people would have claims." Except people like Porter. Porter didnt give up. She obtained her sons 700-page medical record and pored over every sheet. She wrote letters to the State Attorney General and to the Governor. She filed complains with the Florida Department of Health and the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration. I filed a lot of letters, I filed a lot of complaints, Porter said. I just wanted to be heard. I wanted someone to acknowledge that my son lost his life because of an error in judgment. She did get letters back, but they were not satisfying, she said. So Porter has turned to the power of the Internet for help. She started a petition on Change.Org called Allow parents to seek justice for their children's wrongful deaths. She wants other parents to realize what their options are and what they arent. You dont know about it until it hits you and your family, she said. I want people to know about the law and I want some way for hospitals to be held accountable. Shes hoping it catches the right persons attention. Valenzuela said that might be what it takes to enact a change. Until that happens, when the legislature changes the law, Valenzuela said. People like Linda Porter, theyre not going to have any civil recourse. The Hernando County Sheriff's Office is looking for a man wanted on sexual battery charges. Detectives are looking for David Deine Sr., who has warrants out for his arrest on charges of sexual battery with physical force, battery/strangulation and sexual battery on a victim over the age of 12. Deine, 41, was last seen Thursday afternoon in Spring Hill. He is reportedly driving a 2007 blue Suzuki Forenza with Florida tag GEED86. Deine is a white man who is 5-feet-7 and weighs 165 pounds. He is bald with brown eyes. Detectives say he has associates/family members in Miami, New York and California, and he may be attempting to travel to any of those locations. Anyone who sees Deine is asked to call authorities immediately. If you have information about Deine's current whereabouts, you should call the Hernando County Sheriff's Office at 352-754-6830 or your local law enforcement agency. Historical Surprise: Pristine Oregon Coast Result of When Beaches Were Roads Updated Periodically By Oregon Coast Beach Connection staff (Oregon Coast) Driving along Highway 101, gazing over pristine, sandy beaches that flash by, often between stands of forests or bubbly hillsides, you're probably not aware of the inherent irony in this. As you zip along the Oregon coast scenic highway, you're looking at the old coastal highway. (Photo above: A mail carrier from Waldport has a close call in 1913 in the Newport area - courtesy Lincoln County History Museum, Newport) It always comes as some surprise to find out Oregon's beaches were at one point the main road up and down this shoreline. There was no actual road for many decades after European settlers starting arriving here. Even more surprising, the fact they were once the only highway between towns is directly related to the enduring beauty of this area it is part of the reason they are so public. And ultimately so clean as well. Highway 101 didn't actually come into existence until the early '30s. Before that, all you could do to get to most places was drive up the beach by horse 'n' buggy or by early models of motorcar. About the only real sign left of this is the old road carved out of Hug Point near Cannon Beach. Just after 1900, the rock here was blasted apart and a small road made around this point. You can still see the ruts in the old rock, etched by the wheels of ancient vehicles. (Photo here, courtesy Cannon Beach History Museum) In 1914, Governor Oswald West declared the beaches public highways, as part of a first step to keep the roads open and assure more would be built. Shortly after, a series of unpaved roads began to spring up. The Columbia Highway was to run from Seaside to Astoria and then along the Columbia River to Pendleton. In 1915, an unpaved highway between Astoria and Portland opened up. Meanwhile, down in Newport, Nye Beach and Newport were actually separate little villages, connected by a muddy set of wooden planks. In 1912, a group of central coast businessmen hoped to give local tourism a big boost by making the first automobile trip between Newport and Siletz Bay in what would later become Lincoln City. These days, along 101, the trip takes 45 minutes to a half hour, depending on traffic. Back then, the group that called itself the Pathfinders needed 23 hours to make the round trip along muddy tracks on slippery hillsides and soft beaches. Mail was, of course, delivered by sauntering over the vehicle-stressing beaches as well. This resulted in a flurry of interesting tales all their own. One that stands out was the discovery of a mail truck from the '20s beneath the sands of Waldport, found in early 2008 when sand levels reached record lows. It wasn't until 1919 that Oregonians approved a measure to create a full highway from border to border along the coastline, partially because of the way World War 1 had caused Americans to start thinking about emergency preparedness and other possible wars. In 1921, actual paving work began on what was then called the Roosevelt Coast Military Highway after Theodore Roosevelt. It changed names again over the next few years, including the Oregon Beach Highway, before finally settling on the Oregon Coast Highway in the early '30s. Part of that initial name still sticks today: Highway 101 in Seaside is known as Roosevelt Street. Highway 101 was paved and finished in the early '30s (parts of it later). Then, and only then, could coastal towns connect with each other. According to some state documents, Oregonians at the time discovered incredibly different cultures had evolved in each coastal town, the result of decades of isolation from each other and the rest of the state. After West's declaration that beaches were to be public, several laws were passed giving the Highway Commission more control over the beaches over the years. The Oregon State Parks system was an offshoot of this legislation, starting under the highway department in 1925. All this helped pave the way for Gov. Tom McCall to finalize Oregon's beaches as public in the '60s, but before that it was simply a kind of unclarified law and understanding. What really inspired the famed Oregon Beach Bill was when a Cannon Beach motel owner tried fencing off a portion of the dry sand in front of his beachfront property in 1966. This did not sit well with locals and they went straight to Oregon legislators. The Oregon Beach Bill, based slightly on a similar bill in Texas, nearly died a quick death. But McCall created overwhelming public support by flying a team of scientists to the beach in a helicopter, thus creating a massive media stir that turned it into a hot button issue for Oregonians. The was signed into existence on July 6, 1967. Oregon Coast Lodgings for this - Where to eat - Maps and Virtual Tours Historic photos below: MORE PHOTOS BELOW Photos above courtesy Lincoln County History Museum, Newport More About Oregon Coast hotels, lodging..... More About Oregon Coast Restaurants, Dining..... Coastal Spotlight LATEST Related Oregon Coast Articles Back to Oregon Coast Contact Advertise on BeachConnection.net All Content, unless otherwise attributed, copyright BeachConnection.net Unauthorized use or publication is not permitted This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate A federal judge agreed this week to release $200,000 of the annuities former Beaumont ISD contract electrician Calvin Walker forfeited in 2012 and other funds to cover his restitution, fines and tax liabilities, which enforces the plea deal he made with the government. As part of Walker's plea deal, Walker agreed to forfeit all but $200,000 of $3.4 million in annuities. In exchange, the government agreed to pay all his court-ordered restitution, fines and special assessments along with any of the Walkers' tax liability for 2008, 2009 and 2010. To cover restitution and fines, the government will release $661,282 and another $60,025 to pay for special assessments Walker was ordered to pay at sentencing, according to U.S. District Judge Ron Clark's final written judgment, which closes Walker's criminal forfeiture case. Walker's 2011 federal fraud trial ended in a mistrial. In 2012, he agreed to plead guilty to one misdemeanor count of failure to timely pay taxes. All other charges against him were dismissed. Walker is disputing the tax liability amount in a case currently pending in tax court. The outcome of the tax civil case will determine how much the government will release to cover the Walkers' tax liability, according to the judgment. The remaining portion of the $3.4 million is "hereby forfeited to the United States and Claimant Calvin Walker and Claimant Stacy Walker are forever foreclosed and barred from asserting any interest in said property," Clark asserts in his order. Walker requested in September that the funds be released to pay the criminal fine and restitution to the IRS, which he still owes. He also asked that the government release the $200,000 in annuities, plus interest, to cover his current taxes, according to his motion. The government did not oppose the release of funds to cover restitution and fines, but opposed the release of the $200,000 and interest, contending the amount Walker owes the IRS was being determined in a civil case in tax court. The government also contended no funds should be released until a ruling was made in Stacy Walker's attempt to reclaim half of the annuities, a request Clark denied in December. Stacy Walker contended her half of the annuities should not be subject to forfeiture because the government never requested or obtained consent from her, according to a response she filed July. Clark ruled that Walker was the sole owner of the annuities and that she was listed only as beneficiary. Walker, meanwhile, awaits trial in state court. He was scheduled for trial Feb. 8, but it was postponed, pending challenges to his indictment. Walker was indicted by a Jefferson County grand jury on four counts of fraud and two counts of money-laundering, all first-degree felonies. He has told The Enterprise he is not guilty. MLibardi@BeaumontEnterprise.com Twitter.com/ManuellaLibardi Beaumont, like any other place, has its secret spots. Over the years, Beaumont Enterprise photographers have gained access to some of these lost, forgotten, or restricted areas to document and preserve them through pictures. Among them: the Beaumont Reserve Fleet; tunnels underneath the Jefferson Theater; maintenance ways below Lamar; the penthouse of the Goodhue Building in downtown; the San Jacinto Building's clocktower; and the original jail atop the Jefferson County Courthouse. Bagley charged in mother's murder Angela Bagley, 34, of Buna was arrested Wednesday, May 24, and charged with the April 2 murder of her mother, Barbara Turner. Turner, whose death originally was reported by Bagley as a suicide, died from a chest wound inflicted by a .12 gauge shotgun. At the time Bagley told officers that she had been asleep and woke to find her mother's body. "When we interviewed her (Bagley) she insisted she was asleep from 2-7 p.m.," Sheriff's Lt. Larry Folmar said. "However, phone records show she placed numerous phone calls during that time and even after her mother was dead. When we confronted her with that information, she couldn't explain it and asked for an attorney." According to Folmar, Bagley was the beneficiary of Turner's life insurance and a lawsuit filed in Turner's behalf from a car accident she was injured in a year ago. "We're not sure if that was motivating factor or not," Folmar said. "There is evidence of heavy drug use on Bagley's part, but also, statements from interviews with several people indicate that she told others days before her mother's death that she was about to come into a large amount of money." Bagley was arrested without incident after Folmar arranged for her to come to the Jasper County Annex in Buna to collect some clothing. "She showed up about 4 p.m. and (Texas Ranger) Danny Young and I placed her under arrest," Folmar said. "She had little reaction-no emotion at all." Pct. 4 Justice of the Peace Joe Wilkerson arraigned Bagley and set her bond at $500,000. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate 3 1 of 3 For the San Antonio Express-News Show More Show Less 2 of 3 Show More Show Less 3 of 3 AUSTIN Former gubernatorial candidate Wendy Davis is putting up a pink pair of Mizuno Wave Rider 17 running shoes, identical to the ones she wore during her 11-hour filibuster over abortion rights in 2013, this Friday and Saturday at her moving sale in Ft. Worth, according the Ft. Worth Star-Telegram. Davis plans to keep her original pair of pink shoes, but an identical pair with an autographed box will be sold at the former senators moving sale. Davis is cutting down on her belongings since recently moving to Austin. In New Jersey, a Hudson County Superior Court judge has signed off on Hackensack (N.J.) University Health Network's acquisition of Palisades Medical Center in North Bergen, N.J., according to a report from The Record. Here are six things to know about the deal. 1. Once the deal is finalized, Palisades Medical Center will be known as HackensackUMC Palisades. 2. As part of the deal, the Hackensack health network will also acquire a 245-bed long-term care facility from Palisades Medical Center. 3. Robert C. Garrett, CEO of Hackensack University Health Network, said a primary goal of the Palisades Medical Center purchase "is to keep care in New Jersey and closer to home," according to The Record. He expects more patients to be treated at the North Bergen hospital, which now admits about 11,000 patients annually, as Hackensack health network enhances its services, the report notes. 4. The deal did not involve the exchange of cash. However, Hackensack University Health Network has agreed to invest $50 million in capital projects over the next five years, and to take on about $45 million in outstanding debt, according to the report, which cites a summary prepared by the New Jersey Attorney General's office. 5. Palisades Medical Center is the latest organization to become part of the system that includes the flagship Hackensack University Medical Center, HackensackUMC Mountainside in Montclair, N.J., HackensackUMC at Pascack Valley in Westwood, N.J., and the affiliated Englewood (N.J.) Hospital and Medical Center. 6. The deal is slated to be signed March 1. The two parties signed a definitive agreement last April. More articles on healthcare industry transactions: No decisions on big hospital mergers until 2017, says Connecticut governor Prime Healthcare pays $25M for Pennsylvania hospital The rise of 'super regional systems' and what it means for healthcare Employee engagement is critical to an organization's growth and survival. Hospitals and health systems realize that a disengaged workforce can negatively impact an organization's productivity, efficiency and quality of care. Here are three perspectives from healthcare industry experts on how to spot a restless or unhappy employee. Note: Responses have been edited for clarity, style and length. Barbara A. Reilly, PhD Senior Vice President of Employee, Nurse, and Physician Engagement at Press Ganey "When assessing relative engagement, I like to use the metaphor, 'How full is your tank?' We all have a relative tank of engagement, and there are experiences that fill it and situations that deplete this engagement reservoir. When employees are walking around with an empty tank, it's easy to see. For many people, it's exhibited by withdrawing from conversations or meetings or being unusually silent. This can show as lack of energy or enthusiasm for the work itself. Individuals might start postponing or canceling meetings or figuring out ways to expend the least amount of energy to get by. There is a decreased level of helpfulness or willingness to go above and beyond that endures over time. Leaders should be listening as well. People who are disengaged tend to hold on to the same problems or situations. Does an employee bring up a concern, over and over, even when the problem has been addressed? Some disengaged employees spend an incredible amount of time talking in the form of complaining, blaming, or 'sharing their story' vs. completing work. I like to call this the talking vs. doing ratio. Leaders should tune into what this ratio looks like. A disengaged employee is suffering and it takes a skilled leader to spot it, understand it, and address it." Cord Himelstein Vice President of Marketing and Communications for Michael C. Fina Recognition "There are three pretty reliable red flags you can look for. The first is an 'I don't care' type of attitude, and generally showing less interest and care for their work. You might also see an uptick in their tardiness, or they're absent, or call in sick more often. Second is just seeing the quality of their work decline, whether it's failing to meet deadlines or meeting deadlines with noticeably sub-par work. The third kind of goes back to the attitude, and that is mood swings. If they are normally this happy employee to you, and then suddenly cop a negative attitude or behave out of character, it might be about a personal issue in their life, but it also may be about issues at work making them dissatisfied. I think that these three things are really the classic signs of disengagement, and highlight the importance of communication in the workplace and developing a healthy, supportive rapport with your staff to stay ahead of any roadblocks to happiness." Loretta Samaniego, MD Vice President of Physician Practice Development at TeamHealth "It's important to watch for red flags not only for unengaged employees, but also for burned out employees. Burned out employees are really the ones at the opposite end of the spectrum from highly engaged employees, and they're at a very high risk for a lot of negative behaviors behaviors both external and internal. We at healthcare organizations have an obligation to recognize the red flags and help avoid a crisis situation. Some of the signs you might look for are someone who is usually punctual or early to work starting to arrive late, or a surgeon who misses start times. An increase in clinical errors is an ominous sign, obviously, and one we would want to catch way before it happens. An increase in unprofessional conduct with peers, and patient and staff complaints are bad signs. And a general look of depression like they're not getting sleep, they're disheveled and grouchy on a continuous basis is a red flag, too. We all get tired, stressed out and have bad days, but what's the difference from just being stressed out and being burned out? I think one of the big ways to tell is when you get back from vacation you should be refreshed, rejuvenated and ready to go. If you come back from vacation a significant vacation and you're not refreshed, you're not rejuvenated, then that's a really big cue for burnout as well." More articles on workforce and labor management: Workers call for better staffing at San Francisco General NJ nurses gather to protest OMNIA Tri-City Medical Center worker claims she was fired over executive salary cap petition To continue following the latest news and information for Bedfordshire and surrounding areas, simply enter your full postcode below Belfast-based burrito chain Boojum is creating 120 jobs as it rolls out four new stores across Ireland. Brothers David and Andrew Maxwell are opening two locations in Belfast and another two in the Republic as they begin expanding one of our most successful and popular fast-food operations. The brothers took over Boojum seven months ago, a Mexican chain that started off in Belfast's Botanic area and has five outlets across the island. One of the new Belfast eateries will be on Great Victoria Street. The location of the second has yet to be revealed. The company is also opening a new Dublin store in April on Abbey Street, plus another location either in the capital or in Galway. "We've done a lot on the branding in the store and with the managers and staff," David Maxwell said. "We have gone out and sourced some sites. "Plans for 2016 would be four new store openings." The pair are thinking big. The firm's new, much larger Botanic outlet has already attracted a great deal more business than previously "We found the profile of our customers has changed because families and large groups are more willing to visit us," David said. "They can get a seat and can sit down. Boojum is also expanding and growing the way it does business by looking at delivery, corporate catering and card payments. "What we see in the future is online ordering and delivery." While neither brother would be drawn on how well the business was performing, they revealed that all stores had experienced growth. "They are trading well and we are very happy," David said. "We are probably further ahead than we thought we would be seven months ago." Boojum is planning to work alongside Deliveroo, which is the latest player in the Belfast online food ordering and delivery market. "To handle all that, we have to put in additional equipment, so a second line set up," David explained. The larger stores and kitchens will allow the business to enter the corporate catering world. David and Andrew, a former Ulster Rugby player, took over the business from John Blisard last summer. The pair had been working in the restaurant and food business for several years before deciding to take on the company. Their expansion will increase the total workforce from 150 staff to around 270, once the four new stores are complete. And while not in their current plans, the pair are listening to requests from people across Northern Ireland to look at opening up a restaurant in their own areas. "We will be coming back and looking at potential locations such as Londonderry, and the larger urban areas would be well up on the list," David said. Looking further forward, he added: "The plan is to get the company from five to 10 stores, and then take a better look at it and see." Asked whether there were any risks to growing and expanding the business, he replied: "We don't take anything for granted. "We have five successful and profitable stores. "We want to build on the success of that. "But the risks are like any other financial investments." He also reassured Boojum fans that the food has not and will not change. Mayor of London Boris Johnson is pictured at Wrightbus Antrim plant at the announcement of a further 200 Route Master Buses to the Transport of London order worth 62 Million. The 62 Million order was confirmed during a visit to the chassis plant in Antrim. Photo by Simon Graham/Harrison Photography. Boris Johnson says Northern Ireland will not be hit harder than other regions in the UK if it votes to leave the EU. Speaking during a visit to Boomer, a Lisburn firm which makes parts for Wrightbus, he said: "The impact is either neutral or positive. I've looked at some incredible businesses here in the last few hours." Asked how is campaigning for the UK to leave the EU, despite a recent poll suggesting 81% of businesses in Northern Ireland are pro-Europe he said: "I think everyone is based towards the status quo. "Project Fear is going on by the Government who are trying to scare the pants off everybody. I don't think that's the case (that we would be worse off)." But he dismissed fears Northern Ireland would be hit hardest of there was to be a Brexit. "No. I think the whole of the UK has a real chance to different deal and to remain very close trading partners (with Europe)." "There's a big chance for a better arrangement on fisheries, on farming and on free trade deals around the world." The Mayor of London made the case for leaving the EU as he visited the Wrightbus factory in Antrim to officially announce a Transport for London order for 200 more of its famous Routemaster red buses. The deal, which is worth 62 million, will sustain 300 jobs at Wrightbus and will take the number of Routemasters on the streets of London to 1,000. Mr Johnson's visit to Northern Ireland came 48 hours after Prime Minister David Cameron travelled to the region to make the case for staying in the EU. First Minister, Arlene Foster and the deputy First Minister, Martin McGuinness pictured with London Mayor, Boris Johnson, Mark Nodder, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer Wright Group Ltd and the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland Theresa Villiers in Antrim at the official confirmation of a 62million deal between Transport for London for nearly 200 New Routemaster buses Picture by Kelvin Boyes / Press Eye. An additional order for 195 Routemasters for London worth 62m has been confirmed at County Antrim firm Wrightbus. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press An additional order for 195 Routemasters for London worth 62m has been confirmed at County Antrim firm Wrightbus. London Mayor Boris Johnson confirmed the deal on a visit to the company on Monday. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press Mayor of London Boris Johnson is pictured at Wrightbus Antrim plant at the announcement of a further 200 Route Master Buses to the Transport of London order worth 62 Million. The 62 Million order was confirmed during a visit to the chassis plant in Antrim.Also pictured are deputy First Minister Martin McGuinnes, Mark Nodder OBE, Chairman and CEO Wrightbus, First Minister Arlene Foster and Secretary of State Theresa Villiers. Photo by Simon Graham/Harrison Photography. Mayor of London Boris Johnson is pictured at Wrightbus Antrim plant at the announcement of a further 200 Route Master Buses to the Transport of London order worth 62 Million. The 62 Million order was confirmed during a visit to the chassis plant in Antrim. Photo by Simon Graham/Harrison Photography. Mayor of London Boris Johnson is pictured at Wrightbus Antrim plant at the announcement of a further 200 Route Master Buses to the Transport of London order worth 62 Million. The 62 Million order was confirmed during a visit to the chassis plant in Antrim. Photo by Simon Graham/Harrison Photography. Mayor of London Boris Johnson is pictured at Wrightbus Antrim plant at the announcement of a further 200 Route Master Buses to the Transport of London order worth 62 Million. The 62 Million order was confirmed during a visit to the chassis plant in Antrim.Also pictured are deputy First Minister Martin McGuinnes, Mark Nodder OBE, Chairman and CEO Wrightbus, First Minister Arlene Foster and Secretary of State Theresa Villiers. Photo by Simon Graham/Harrison Photography. Monday 29th February 2016 An additional order for 195 Routemasters for London worth 62m has been confirmed at County Antrim firm Wrightbus. London Mayor Boris Johnson confirmed the deal on a visit to the company. Photo Colm Lenaghan/Pacemaker Press Mayor of London Boris Johnson is pictured at Wrightbus Antrim plant at the announcement of a further 200 Route Master Buses to the Transport of London order worth 62 Million. The 62 Million order was confirmed during a visit to the chassis plant in Antrim. Photo by Simon Graham/Harrison Photography. Mayor of London Boris Johnson is pictured at Wrightbus Antrim plant at the announcement of a further 200 Route Master Buses to the Transport of London order worth 62 Million. The 62 Million order was confirmed during a visit to the chassis plant in Antrim. Photo by Simon Graham/Harrison Photography. Mayor of London Boris Johnson is pictured at Wrightbus Antrim plant at the announcement of a further 200 Route Master Buses to the Transport of London order worth 62 Million. The 62 Million order was confirmed during a visit to the chassis plant in Antrim. Photo by Simon Graham/Harrison Photography. London mayor Boris Johnson has confirmed a fresh deal to buy almost 200 new Routemaster buses from Ballymena's Wrightbus. The deal is thought to be worth around 60m and will help secure the workforce of the bus maker. Mr Johnson visited a plant owned by the firm in Antrim as part of a tour of firms in Northern Ireland on Monday. During his visit he tested the strength of the chassis of the bus by doing pull-ups on it. Read More A deal to buy the buses was revealed earlier this month, with Transport for London (TfL) confirming that its board had approved the financing of the order for the buses, a familiar sight on roads around Ballymena during the test-drive process. Wrightbus employs around 1,500 people in Ballymena - and the confirmation of available finance will secure the jobs of those deployed on the Routemaster production lines. Around 800 have been driven onto London's streets so far. First Minister Arlene Foster said: Wrightbus is a shining example of a successful indigenous Northern Ireland business. "Innovation is a key element of economic success and Wrightbus has once again demonstrated their manufacturing credentials. "This latest contract not only results in almost 200 Routemaster buses servicing London but it is a timely boost for the Northern Ireland manufacturing sector. Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness said: Wrightbus is a flourishing business and this latest contract puts them in the manufacturing fast lane. "The success in winning contracts reflects the sharp Wrightbus focus on innovation and marketing which has resulted in it becoming a major player on the global market. "This follow up order is testament to the quality of the hard work and skill of their workforce and the benefits to our economy will extend beyond the gates of Wrightbus." Introducing the so-called 'Boris bus' onto London's streets has been a signature policy of London's flamboyant Mayor, Boris Johnson, whose tenure will come to an end in May. Boris Johnson has said he will campaign for the UK to leave the EU as battle lines were drawn between Northern Ireland's politicians on what David Cameron has called one of the biggest decisions of our time. Mr Johnson said he could not turn down this "once in a lifetime" chance to quit the EU. He claimed Mr Cameron's renegotiation had failed to deliver fundamental change in Britain's relationship with Brussels. Michael O'Leary at the Ryan Air Press Conference on March 03, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph) Michael O'Leary at the Ryan Air Press Conference on March 03, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph) Michael O'Leary at the Ryan Air Press Conference on March 03, 2016 Belfast, Northern Ireland ( Photo by Kevin Scott / Belfast Telegraph) Ryanair boss Michael O'Leary has revealed seven new routes from Belfast as part of the airline's fresh expansion plans here. The low-cost airline chief is presenting a keynote speech at Davy Private Clients' inaugural annual conference at the Europa Hotel on Thursday. The outspoken boss has revealed seven additional routes Ryanair is bringing to Belfast. The seven new routes for Belfast winter 2016 include: Berlin (19.99 3 weekly) Milan (19.99 2 weekly) Lanzarote (34.99 2 weekly) Tenerife (34.99 2 weekly) Alicante (24.99 3 weekly) Krakow (19.99 3 weekly) Malaga (24.99 4 weekly) *prices are from amount stated and are one way* The airline, which is investing $300m (200m) in three new planes, said it would create 750 jobs when it begins flying four times to London Gatwick daily. It's six years since the budget carrier pulled out of Belfast City airport, following delays to a planned runway extension. Ryanair has said it will bring a million more passengers through its new city hub at Belfast International Airport. Speaking in Belfast Ryanairs Michael OLeary said: "This large inward investment (over $300m) and new job creation is the latest example of how Northern Ireland benefits from the UKs membership of the European Union. "Low fare air travel, which was pioneered by Ryanair in the UK and Europe, is one of the EUs great success stories." Belfast International Airport's managing director, Graham Keddie, says the inclusion of Berlin and Milan represents a long-awaited breakthrough into the lucrative German and Italian markets, and is a cause for major celebration in Northern Ireland. Mr Keddie said: "To say were delighted with this expansion would be an under-statement. For us, the inclusion of Berlin fulfils a major ambition, and is the long-awaited breakthrough we have worked to achieve. This new network comes at no cost to the taxpayer or support from Government. It will provide direct access to Northern Ireland, drive up tourism numbers, increase Northern Irelands international appeal and lead to many hundreds of new jobs. These new jobs will be at the airport and the ever-increasing supply chain. Already, weve announced close to 300 new jobs which will generate 4.8 million in wages, but thats just the beginning of an amazing period of growth and expansion that will be the inevitable consequence of this most welcome announcement." Meanwhile, according to the Centre for Aviation, which provides independent market analysis on the sector, 2016 could be Ryanair's most profitable year in 11 years. Mr O'Leary will be addressing more than 400 of Northern Ireland's top business leaders during the Davy event this week. The panel discussion will include contributions from Brian O'Reilly, Davy's head of global investment strategy, Alan Werlau, UK investment strategist, and Andrew Fisher, former chief executive of Coutts & Co. Another financial crisis is certain and will come sooner rather than later, the former Bank of England governor has warned. Mervyn King, who headed the bank between 2003 and 2013, believes the world economy will soon face another crash as regulators have failed to reform banking. He has also claimed the 2008 crisis was the fault of the financial system, not individual greedy bankers, in his new book, The End Of Alchemy: Money, Banking And The Future Of The Global Economy, serialised in The Telegraph. Without reform of the financial system, another crisis is certain, and the failure ... to tackle the disequilibrium in the world economy makes it likely that it will come sooner rather than later, Lord King wrote. A remark from a Chinese colleague who said the West had not got the hang of money and banking was the inspiration for his book. Lord King (67) said that without understanding what caused the crash, politicians and bankers would be unable to prevent another, and he lays the blame firmly at the door of a broken financial system. The crisis was a failure of a system, and the ideas that underpinned it, not of individual policymakers or bankers, incompetent and greedy though some of them undoubtedly were, he said. Spending imbalances both within and between countries led to the crisis in 2008 and he believes a current disequilibrium will lead to the next. To solve the problem, Lord King suggests raising productivity and boldly reforming the banking system. Only a fundamental rethink of how we, as a society, organise our system of money and banking will prevent a repetition of the crisis we experienced in 2008, he said. Coronation Street actress Tina O'Brien has said she experiences "full-time mummy guilt" because she is a working mother. The 32-year-old has two children - Scarlett, seven, and 16-month-old son Beau - and a fter an eight-year absence, O'Brien returned to Corrie in 2015 to reprise the role of Sarah-Louise Platt. Among the first to welcome her back was Ryan Thomas. The actor, who recently announced his imminent departure from the cobbles, not only plays her character's ex-husband Jason Grimshaw, he is also O'Brien's former partner and Scarlett's father. In an exclusive interview with Hello! magazine, the petite blonde admitted that working mothers "can never win". "I absolutely do suffer full-time mummy guilt," she said. "But I have experienced both ends of the spectrum, so I know mums can never win." She added: "When I was pregnant with Scarlett and was a jobbing actress, I knew I would be off work for at least a year because nobody was going to employ a pregnant actress and I really relished being a stay-at-home mum." O'Brien said she would like to be a good example for her daughter. "I love the feeling of doing something I love and providing for my family," she told the magazine. "I think it is important that your children see you doing something you enjoy. I couldn't ask for a better job. "I want to be a role model for Scarlett and teach her that it is normal for mummies to go to work and to aspire to exciting and rewarding things in life." Best known for her portrayal of Weatherfield's troubled resident, O'Brien joined the soap in 1999 and one of her biggest storylines has revolved around the subject of teenage pregnancy. Sarah discovered she was pregnant with daughter Bethany at the age of 13 and the father was Neil Fearns (actor Paul Holowaty), who later died in a car crash. O'Brien left the cobbles in 2007, returning to television to play student Bex Fisher in BBC One school drama Waterloo Road from 2010 to 2011. In Corrie, the turmoil continues for single mother Sarah, who is expecting the baby of deceased drug dealer Callum Logan (Sean Ward). Away from work, Rusholme-born star O'Brien discussed how daughter Scarlett set her up with Adam Crofts, her partner of nearly five years. "It was a chance encounter in a coffee shop," she revealed. "We would never have started talking had it not been for Scarlett because Adam had his headphones in when Scarlett went over to him and said, 'Hello, man'. "The bizarre thing was that I had only just been thinking that finally I was happy being on my own and didn't need to be with anyone, when along comes Adam, who turns out to be Mr Perfect. "I have never particularly believed in fate, but you have to wonder when something like that happens," she said. The couple, parents to son Beau, are on cordial terms with Thomas. O'Brien has described their relationship as "a very modern family". :: Read the full article in Hello! out now. Pauline McLynn has paid an emotional tribute to fellow Father Ted star Frank Kelly following his death on Sunday. The actor passed away on the 18th anniversary of the death of Dermot Morgan who starred as Ted in the Arthur Matthews and Graham Linehan penned comedy. McLynn starred opposite Kelly, Morgan, and Ardal O'Hanlon in the hit Channel 4 series throughout its three series from 1995 to 1998. Speaking to Anton Savage on Today FM, the actress celebrated Kelly's talent and wit and became very emotional towards the end of the interview when she related a story about when Frank married his wife Barbara. "He told me that his local priest and clergy in general did not approve that he was going to marry Barbara because she already had a family and he was hauled over the coals and brought to meet them and talk about it and they said, 'Why are you going to marry this woman?' and he said, 'Because I love her.' And nobody spoke to them like that in those days," revealed Pauline. "And marry her he did and they had so many decades of happiness. My heart goes out to them, because they more than us - we mourned him as a nation, as admirers, those of us like myself lucky enough to spend time and work with him - their loss is is so much harder because they had all of him..." Pauline broke down and joked, "I knew I was going to cry. Bloody hell. He'd kill me if he heard this!". Expand Close Frank Kelly played Father Jack in the hit comedy series Father Ted / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Frank Kelly played Father Jack in the hit comedy series Father Ted She added, "For us now to have lived at a time when we could have a bit of him we don't know our luck. I really don't believe we will see his like again." Of working with Frank on Father Ted, she said she was thrilled to work with "one of my heroes" because she had been a fan of his show Hall's Pictorial Weekly in the 70s. "In many ways I wonder if we [Pauline, Dermot Morgan and Ardal O'Hanlon] were just the set up people while he did the gags because always at the end of anything you'd work really hard at he'd walk off with it all, with something from Father Jack's chair," she said. Expand Close Pauline McLynn as she is today / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Pauline McLynn as she is today The actress also revealed that he often used to fall asleep in the chair, and had a penchant for making up "filthy Limericks". "He would use his brain to keep himself amused and to make up in particular the filthiest Limericks that were the cleverest things, not only too clever for me to remember, but also you could not say them aloud. He'd sidle up every so often and give you five lines of such brilliance." Fellow Father Ted star Ardal O'Hanlon paid tribute to Frank with a tweet, "Extremely sad news today. A gentleman, great comedy priest, friend. RIP Frank" while Graham Linehan also tweeted, "Just hearing from various sources that Frank Kelly has passed away. Terribly sad news. Thanks for everything, Frank." Aoife Kelly, Independent.ie Ennio Morricone with the award for best original score for The Hateful Eight at the Oscars in Los Angeles (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Oscar-winning composer Ennio Morricone is to perform his first UK show outside of London. The 87-year-old Italian, who won the Oscar for best original score for his work on The Hateful Eight, is one of the headliners for this summer's Nocturne concert series at Blenheim Palace in Woodstock, Oxfordshire. He joins Sir Elton John and The Corrs on the bill for the June music event. Giving his Oscars acceptance speech in Italian, Morricone said: "Thank you to the Academy for this prestigious honour. My tribute goes to the other nominees, in particular to the esteemed John Williams. I want to thank Quentin Tarantino for having chosen me." Morricone's most recognisable work is the theme for the 1966 Clint Eastwood classic The Good, The Bad And The Ugly. Speaking as the concert was announced, he said: "Performing my work live for people of so many different ages and cultural backgrounds is an incredibly gratifying experience. This year I celebrate my professional career of 60 years, during which I composed over 600 works. "On this coming tour I will perform a whole new programme with new highlights, which I am already working on. Of course there will always be the classic pieces from the great Sergio Leone Westerns and The Mission. "But overall, the experience will be different this time. I plan to include music from my collaboration with Quentin Tarantino as well as a few works from the Leone Westerns that I have not included on previous tours." Morricone, who has sold more than 70 million albums, is widely regarded as one of the greatest, most prolific film composers of all time, having written hundreds of scores for cinema including The Mission, Cinema Paradiso and the classic Westerns The Good, The Bad And The Ugly and Once Upon A Time In The West. He performs on Thursday June 23, with The Corrs performing on Friday June 24 and Sir Elton and his band performing on Sunday June 26. Arlene Arkinson vanished after a night out at a disco in 1994 A woman who lied to police investigating the disappearance of Arlene Arkinson has claimed the pressures of the case have made her contemplate suicide. In an angry outburst, Patricia Quinn - a friend of child killer Robert Howard - said her life has been unbearable since the Co Tyrone schoolgirl vanished in August 1994. She told Belfast Coroner's Court: "I am fed up with this life. When I go home tonight, you'll never hear tell of me again. I am going to do myself in. "Twenty one years of this life. The Arkinsons have tried to smother me, petrol bomb me. What did the police do? Nothing." Ms Quinn, who denies being Howard's partner, was giving evidence at the long delayed inquest for a second day. However, proceedings were dramatically halted when she made the claim after just 10 minutes in the witness box during cross examination by the Arkinson family barrister. "The last 20 years I have been hassled, battered, kicked," she added. "Nobody has done anything about it. Why shouldn't I be angry? "I would love the cutty (Arlene) to be found. Everybody deserves a decent burial." Fifteen-year-old Arlene, from Castlederg, vanished after a night out at a disco across the Irish border in Co Donegal on August 13, 1994. She was last seen with Howard - who was acquitted of her murder in 2005 by a jury which was unaware of his conviction for killing a south London teenager several years earlier. He remained the prime suspect in the Arkinson case until his death in prison last year, aged 71. The court heard that Howard had lived with Ms Quinn and her three children in Castlederg but retained his own flat in the centre of the town. She had provided a bail address when Howard was charged with drugging, raping and imprisoning another teenage girl in 1993 - a year before Arlene vanished. Last week Ms Quinn, whose daughter Donna Quinn was a close friend of the missing schoolgirl, alleged he had been a police informer. She again questioned police actions in the case. She said: "Why did the police not arrest him until the end of September? That's nearly 46 days after Arlene disappeared. "Why did they keep him on their books and not arrest him?" Judge Sherrard interjected, saying the inquest would be hearing from police, to which Ms Quinn replied: " I hope you do and I hope they tell the truth too." Following a short adjournment, Ms Quinn was deemed unfit to continue giving evidence and was invited back at a later date. Judge Brian Sherrard advised that she seek medical help. "I have some concerns about your welfare," the coroner said. "I appreciate this is stressful but it is also important that we hear what you have to say. "I am going to allow you to go home and invite you back on a different day. "Because of the comments that you made, I would advise you to go and speak to your GP." Ms Quinn said she would visit the doctor on Tuesday. Her eldest son Mark was also called to give evidence to the inquest. He described Howard as his mother's "boyfriend" and agreed with a lawyer's assertion that she had probably been "infatuated" with him. Mr Quinn said: "He was good to her." Despite not knowing about Howard's lengthy criminal history, Mr Quinn could not warm to him, the court heard. But, when issued with an ultimatum after Howard moved into the property in 1993, he conceded there was nowhere else to go. "I never like to be in the same room as him. I never liked the man," said Mr Quinn. "I did say get rid of that boy. She said 'if you don't like it you know what you can do'." Under questioning from a barrister for the Police Service of Northern Ireland, Mr Quinn, now aged 42, denied suggestions Howard was deliberately placed in their home by the police. "I don't buy that," he said. Later, the court was told that special measures should not be put in place to facilitate a former senior detective. Henry Toner QC, representing the Arkinson family, said he was alerted by media reports that a retired detective superintendent may give his evidence via Skype. "We are not convinced Mr (Eric) Anderson should be handed any special measures," he said. "Skype would not be acceptable to us." Mr Anderson has previously cited ill-health for non attendance at other high profile inquests. Judge Sherrard said he had received four medical reports relating to the officer and the matter would be discussed at a later date. Meanwhile, it is also anticipated that four outstanding issues around the disclosure of sensitive police documents could soon be resolved. A third hearing behind closed doors has been scheduled to take place on Tuesday to try to progress the Public Interest Immunity (PII) application. The case has been adjourned. Mayor of London Boris Johnson swings from a bus during a visit to Wrightbus in Antrim Boris Johnson has insisted Northern Ireland businesses, farmers and fishermen have nothing to fear from Brexit and everything to gain. The Mayor of London made the case for leaving the EU as he visited the Wrightbus factory in Antrim to officially announce a Transport for London order for 200 more of its famous Routemaster red buses. The deal, which is worth 62 million, will sustain 300 jobs at Wrightbus and will take the number of Routemasters on the streets of London to 1,000. Mr Johnson's visit to Northern Ireland came 48 hours after Prime Minister David Cameron travelled to the region to make the case for staying in the EU. The Tory MP, who is one of the vote to leave campaign's most high-profile members, unsurprisingly made a very different pitch on Monday. Asked about concerns voiced by some senior business figures in the region, Mr Johnson said: "I think there is absolutely nothing to be concerned about, indeed everything to gain. "We have a real opportunity to get out from under the encumbrance, that constricting force which is the European Union and the bureaucracy that's involved." He also claimed there would be benefits for the farming and fishing industries. "I think for Northern Ireland it would be good news from the point of view of fisheries. I think the farming community, the subsides would be better tailored to their needs and, as for exports around the world, we should be so positive." He added: "We need to lift our eyes to the horizon, we need to think globally. The European Union, of course it's a hugely important market for us, but as a share of world trade it is diminishing and they are going in a very different direction from the rest of the world in the sense they are trying to create this political union based around the euro which is not really where we want to go." The London mayor hailed the new deal with Wrightbus as he toured the factory floor. Clad in a high-vis jacket, at one point he swung from under the chassis of one of the vehicles to demonstrate how robust the structure was. "This is fantastic news for London because we are going to get another 200 of these superb Northern Irish-built new buses for London, Routemaster buses," he said. "I hope it's good news also for the Northern Ireland economy. What it shows is how keeping London moving keeps Northern Ireland moving, keeps the UK moving together. I am very pleased today to see we are going to have 1,000 Wrightbuses on the streets of London - 1,000 new Routemasters." Northern Ireland Secretary Theresa Villiers, another senior figure in the leave EU camp, accompanied Mr Johnson on his visit. Stormont First Minister Arlene Foster, whose Democratic Unionist party is also recommending a break from the European Union, and Sinn Fein Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness, a strong supporter of the link with the EU, were among local political representatives in attendance. Mrs Foster welcomed the latest Transport for London deal. "Wrightbus is a shining example of a successful indigenous Northern Ireland business," she said. "Innovation is a key element of economic success and Wrightbus has once again demonstrated their manufacturing credentials. "This latest contract not only results in almost 200 Routemaster buses servicing London but it is a timely boost for the Northern Ireland manufacturing sector." Mr McGuinness added: "Wrightbus is a flourishing business and this latest contract puts them in the manufacturing fast lane. "The success in winning contracts reflects the sharp Wrightbus focus on innovation and marketing which has resulted in it becoming a major player on the global market. "This follow up order is testament to the quality of the hard work and skill of their workforce and the benefits to our economy will extend beyond the gates of Wrightbus." The Wrightbus Group has a total workforce of 2,000. A Northern Ireland priest accused of taking cocaine at his parochial house and displaying Nazi memorabilia has taken a leave of absence from the priesthood. Allegations were made over the weekend in a Sunday newspaper that Father Stephen Crossan (37) had snorted cocaine at a party on the grounds of St Patrick's Church in Banbridge last July. A video of the incident was also uploaded onto the newspaper's website. In the short video Father Crossan is seen at a house party being handed a rolled-up 10 note. He can be heard saying "I shouldn't" before snorting what's believed to be cocaine from a plate. Pictures were also published of Nazi memorabilia including a golden eagle with a swastika on a mantlepiece and a Second World War German officer's hat. Father Crossan told the newspaper: It was just the one night and that was it. I do not have an issue with drugs. He continued: Im no Nazi. I collect historical stuff. Theres stuff there from every country. Fr Crossan added that he was on sick leave with depression at the time, had since left the church but was being supported by the Parish. An unnamed source told the newspaper: "The house was lovely but we were stunned to see the Nazi stuff. It was all over the house. At one point Stephen put on a cap and did the Nazi salute. Its shocking. Hes supposed to be an upstanding member of society. He shouldnt be taking drugs. The Bishop of Dromore, Dr John McAreavey, said in a statement he had "no knowledge of the incident" but confirmed Stephen Crossan was now taking an "extended leave from the Priesthood." He added he would pray for Stephen and "whatever issues he is facing at the moment". Dr McAreavey added he was concerned for his health and would pray and support him "through whatever issues he is facing at the moment". He confirmed that in May 2015 Fr Crossan, a curate in the Diocese of Dromore, was granted leave from pastoral duties in Seapatrick Parish on health grounds. Since that time he has received counselling "whilst also considering his own future". At the start of February, Fr Crossan informed the Bishop he wished to take an extended leave of absence from the priesthood. A letter from Fr Crossan was read out at Masses in Seapatrick parish on the weekend of February 14. In it, he said: "Following a period of reflection, I have decided to take an extended leave of absence from the priestly ministry. "I would like to thank Canon Stevenson and the people of Seapatrick parish for their kindness to me during my time in Banbridge. "I wish you all every blessing for the future. I would ask you to keep me in your prayers." It's understood that he has now completely vacated the parochial house in Banbridge, as well as the pastoral and ministerial aspects of his role. Stephen Carson had recently been released from prison Two men have been charged with a murder linked to a suspected Belfast crime feud. The men, aged 32 and 37, are accused of killing Stephen Carson in the south of the city last week. They are due to appear in Belfast Magistrates' Court on Tuesday. Mr Carson, 28, was shot in the head on Thursday night after a group of armed men broke into a house where he was eating dinner with his partner and nine-year-old son. The victim, who had recently been released from prison, tried to hide in the bathroom of the Walmer Street house when the attackers forced entry, but they shot him with a shotgun through the door. He sustained fatal injuries to his head, dying later in hospital. Detectives have been granted more time to question another man, aged 39, in relation to the murder. The DUP is engaged in an astonishing election stand-off with one of its most controversial and high profile MLAs. Former Health Minister Jim Wells has the backing of the South Down constituency association to contest the Assembly election in May. But the party's top brass won't allow his name to go forward. It has raised the possibility Mr Wells could run against the DUP as an independent in the poll. The Belfast Telegraph has learned that approved candidates were invited to a photoshoot at Stormont's Parliament Buildings last week, but Mr Wells was not asked to attend. A party source revealed: "All the MLAs who are running again were called in to room 202 to have their photos taken by a professional photographer, but Jim was not amongst them." The pictures will be used on leaflets and election posters. It's understood that up to six members of the DUP's senior party officer team - including chairman Lord Morrow and DUP deputy leader Nigel Dodds - interviewed Mr Wells at Stormont around three weeks ago. Party sources say the meeting lasted for more than an hour and that there were "fiery exchanges". Neither Mr Wells nor the DUP's press spokesman would comment on the meeting, but it's believed that much of the discussion centred on remarks about same-sex marriage made by Mr Wells at an election hustings event in Downpatrick last April. Following a recording of his comments - which he stated were doctored - he resigned his post as Health Minister and later began a campaign to clear his name. The DPP announced in October that he would not be prosecuted over the comments. "Some at the top of the party don't believe Jim is an appropriate candidate following that controversy," said a party source. "It has damaged him greatly. This is not a question of electability. Everyone knows that if he gets the nomination he would easily be re-elected. People in South Down are very supportive of him but he doesn't have the support of the party officers." If the DUP chooses not to ratify Mr Wells as a candidate, it's believed that he may run as an independent. His supporters are convinced that the support he enjoys in South Down may be enough to win him the seat, even without party backing. But the DUP will be concerned a solo run by Mr Wells could split the unionist vote and allow another pro-union candidate - such as Ukip's Henry Reilly - to take the seat. When contacted, Mr Wells refused to comment on the selection delay and on rumours he may run as an independent, referring inquiries to the DUP press team. A party spokesman confirmed that Mr Wells had been interviewed by senior party officers and that no decision had yet been taken on who would contest the South Down seat. "Selection issues are internal party matters," said the spokesman. "Jim is not the only candidate to be interviewed." It's understood senior members of the South Down constituency association have told DUP leader Arlene Foster that they are giving Mr Wells their backing and no other members are prepared to put their names forward for selection. A source said: "It's absolutely clear that the association wants him to run. They're all behind him in South Down." The DUP spokesman said: "Jim has been through a tough time and there has been a big focus on him. The local view is always taken into account. Some people have said they won't stand in Jim's way." In a Belfast Telegraph interview last October, Mr Wells (58) revealed how he struggled to cope with losing his Executive post in the wake of the hustings furore and spoke movingly about his wife, Grace, who suffered a stroke just over a year ago. Grace - married to Mr Wells for more than 30 years - is cared for in a nursing home. Earlier this month he again sparked controversy over remarks about women made at a Stormont committee. He was heard telling a fellow MLA: "I'm brilliant with women under the age of eight and great with those over the age of 80. It's the ones in between I can't cope with - between eight to 80." Last week the Assembly Standards Commissioner Douglas Bain rejected a complaint about the comments from Alliance's Stewart Dickson, ruling that his words did not amount to sex discrimination and did not breach the Assembly's code of conduct. Mr Wells has demanded an apology from Mr Dickson. Yvette Cooper said the the tents and volunteer support network at the Calais site are about to be bulldozed and there is no safeguarding plan in place Ministers must use their powers to stop hundreds of children falling into the hands of human traffickers who could use them for prostitution as the Calais migrant camp known as The Jungle is demolished, a senior MP has said. Yvette Cooper said asylum applications for unaccompanied children were taking nine months in France and that 400 are at "serious risk" of disappearing as the camp is dismantled and new shelters fill up. The chairwoman of Labour's refugee taskforce said around 150 of the children have their closest family in Britain and called on the Government to allow them to enter the country as their asylum claims are processed. Insisting the children have nowhere to go, Ms Cooper called on the Government to accept an offer from UNHCR (the UN High Commissioner for Refugees) to help process applications as part of a fast system to reunite children with their family in the UK. Ms Cooper said unaccompanied children are not allowed into the new heated container shelters built to rehouse Jungle residents and that a nearby centre for women and children is now full. Asking an urgent question in the Commons, she went on: "The tents and volunteer support network are about to be bulldozed and there is no safeguarding plan in place at all. "There is a massive reality gap between what you said and what is happening on the ground. "Save the Children warn that things are extremely chaotic and this is making an appalling situation for children even worse. This is dangerous. "You know well there is a serious risk that those children will now just disappear - into the hands of traffickers or criminal gangs or prostitution. "Another 400 children on top of the 10,000 who Europol say have already disappeared in Europe." Ms Cooper said the 150 children who have their closest family in Britain, according to Citizens UK, will not apply for asylum in France, Germany or Sweden because they want to be reunited. The former cabinet minister stressed that the Government agrees that child refugees should be reunited with family and also agrees that if their closest family is in UK they should be able to apply within the country for asylum, promising funding. She went on: "But that is not happening for the kids in Calais. Even if they manage to apply their cases are taking nine months. They don't have nine months, their remaining tents are being bulldozed now." Ms Cooper added: "You have talked a good game on stopping trafficking and modern slavery and you are right to be appalled at the criminal gangs. "But this is where it gets real - you have the power now to stop the trafficking of hundreds of children on our doorstep, will you do it?" Immigration minister James Brokenshire said the best way for a child to get help is to lodge an asylum claim in France but admitted it should not take anywhere near nine months to process them. Replying for the Government, he said: "Where an asylum claim is lodged by a child with close family connections in the UK both governments are committed to ensuring that such a case is prioritised. "But it is vital that the child engages with the French authorities as quickly as possible." Mr Brokenshire said the Government has provided a single point of contact for family reunification cases. An asylum expert is being sent to France to improve identification of children and the transfer of any relevant cases to the UK. The Tory minister said children can make direct applications for family reunion from anywhere in the world if they have a parent in Britain. He went on: "You reference this period of nine months. "It should not take anywhere near that and we remain behind our commitments in respect of seeing that there is an efficient and effective process for what we judge is a small number of cases that may have that direct connection to the UK. "Equally you will be aware of the broader family reunification provisions over and above Dublin (regulations) that would allow children to be reunited with their parents, with direct applications not from France, it could be from the region (around Syria), it could be from anywhere around Europe or indeed in the region itself where there is that direct link to a parent that exists." Mr Brokenshire insisted the Government takes its responsibility "extremely seriously" and said there are 100 welcome centres for asylum seekers in other parts of France. He also claimed priority was being given to women, children and other vulnerable migrants in the container shelters designed to replace the tents of The Jungle. Having just turned 65, Alliance leader David Ford tells political correspondent Noel McAdam he is standing down as Justice Minister after the election and that his party may not want to take up the post again. Q. Is the issue of how long you are going to remain as leader of Alliance on the party's radar? A. It wasn't very long after I became leader - probably only weeks if not days - that I said to the party: "Whenever it comes to the time you want me to go, there is no need for any of the men in grey suits - just tell me." The party hasn't said anything like that, and I think it's because they see the successes we have had in recent years. Q. Should it be on their radar, though? A. Well, there are a number of people who are more than capable, who could take the party over, because we have a very good team. Q. You have been leader for almost 15 years now. Is the issue of how long you want to remain in the post on your personal radar? A. Yes. Inevitably, after a period as long as that, you look towards the future, but I am leading the party into this election and I am gearing up for one of the things I enjoy most in politics: knocking on doors and meeting people. Q. Is the worry that the minute you say anything you are in danger of becoming a lame duck? A. I have heard that said about various political leaders over the years. If I were to fall under a number 120 bus in Glengormley tomorrow morning, there is no shortage of leadership in the Alliance Party. Q. So will there be a contest when you do go? Or is it a coronation for Naomi Long? A. That depends on who puts their name forward and how many of them there are. The party rules say that if you want to be leader, you have to be an MEP, MLA or MP, so we will just have to wait and see. When I was elected as leader that was after a contest with Eileen Bell (in 2001). But don't be writing me off just yet. Q. Alliance's share of the vote seems to hover around 7-8%. Is that a personal disappointment to you? A. In the last European election Anna Lo had the highest result (in terms of vote share) since Oliver Napier (former Alliance leader) in 1979, and in the last Assembly election we gained an extra seat. In the Westminster election last year, despite losing East Belfast in the face of a five-party pact between parties who could not agree among themselves about anything else except the pact, the vote for Naomi went up by 4,000. And in the other 17 constituencies we also had uniformly good performances with increased votes. Q. Is the designation as 'other' arising from the Good Friday Agreement one of the reasons for the party's performance? A. I am not sure it makes as much difference now as it would have done in the past. Immediately after the Good Friday Agreement, the campaign run by Tony Blair and his team was designed to support David Trimble and John Hume, and there was some damage to Alliance as a result. But the party has more than recovered since. Q. But should the Good Friday Agreement not in fact have helped establish the middle ground in which Alliance could grow? A. The problem is the structures as opposed to the principles. The structures were built to support the largest parties in each of the two traditional groupings, which were formerly the SDLP and Ulster Unionists and now the DUP and Sinn Fein, so it did make life more difficult. But we remain as a united community in terms of our designation in the Assembly, and united community is what the Alliance Party is all about. Q. Does an apparently resurgent Ulster Unionist Party threaten Alliance prospects in the May Assembly election? A. I think the UUP had some lucky gains in the last council elections, but don't forget that on the same day they also had their worst ever performance in the European election. Then in the Westminster election they had one genuinely surprising gain (Tom Elliott) in Fermanagh/South Tyrone. Their other gain in South Antrim (Danny Kinahan) was not so much a vote for him as a vote against Willie McCrea (DUP). Danny is the nearest thing you could imagine to a genuine liberal unionist, and yet at the same time people who voted for him as a liberal unionist and as a means of keeping Willie McCrea out have told me they will vote for me this year. Q. What constituencies are you targeting to increase your current eight MLAs? A. We are looking to increase our votes right across Northern Ireland, but I am looking at five or six seats constituencies in particular - South and East Belfast, North Down, East Antrim, perhaps North Belfast also, and East Londonderry is possibly in the mix. Q. Looking further ahead, where do you anticipate gains in local government to increase your present 31 councillors? A. We are certainly considering Belfast, which when you think about it was the focus of the flag dispute. Despite the attempt to destroy us there we strengthened our team to eight councillors, which we had not had for several years. In terms of suburban areas, we have good ground to build on in Lisburn and Castlereagh where we have seven councillors, and Antrim and Newtownabbey where... due to some slippage we should have had more. Q. Is it your intention to stay on as Justice Minister if possible after the May election? A. I think it is likely that after six years doing one of the most difficult jobs in the Executive it would be inappropriate for me to put my name forward to remain as Justice Minister. Q. But isn't that just putting a gun to the head of the other parties? It is very likely the other parties will not be able to agree who should get the justice portfolio. A. If we qualify for a ministry, there is nothing to say that we have to take Justice. The big question is whether we are going to get sufficient agreement around the Programme for Government. We will wait and see whether we want to continue running Justice, or if we want to take over another department. Q. But couldn't it precipitate a crisis? A. Why should it be a crisis? Why should it cause a crisis because Alliance sticks to its principles? Q. Aren't you just using this threat as leverage to get as many of your own proposals into the Programme for Government as possible? A. Are you suggesting that only the Alliance Party can take up the Justice position? I don't think any of the others could do as good as job as my party, but that does not mean they could not do it at all. Q. I know you will say it is for others to judge, but how would you rate your own performance as Justice Minister ? A. It is not just for other people to judge, but others seem to judge in the Assembly chamber and in newspapers every week. Q. Have you been frustrated, with the things you have been unable to achieve? A. Our budget was more significantly cut two years ago than any other department, so that produced difficulties. The pace of prison reform is faster than it has been, but there are always those who would want it even faster. Q. Would you have expected the closure of local courts (Limavady, Strabane, Magherafelt, Ballymena, Armagh and Lisburn have all been earmarked) to have been more controversial? A. I think that if you were to do a survey in any town you would find 95% of people have never been in their local court and 95% would never want to have to go to their local court. The closure of six courthouses will not see a reduction in scheduled court sittings, as business will transfer on a like-for-like basis to the new venues, so there is no reason that there would be any negative impact on access to court time. The remaining courthouses in the estate will ensure that access to justice, within a reasonable travelling distance, is preserved for court users. I welcome the indication from the Lord Chief Justice that the judiciary is prepared to consider the timings for court proceedings and to explore the benefits of a more flexible court sitting day to alleviate any difficulties that individual users may have Q. Have you concerns that some local weekly papers do not cover their courts? A. The role of the media in reporting cases and their outcomes is an essential component of the principle of open justice. Access to courts by the media and the public isn't affected by a reduction in courthouses. Q. Why have you been so critical of the role of the Ministry of Defence in relation to legacy inquests? A. I wrote to the Secretary of State on June 15 last year asking her to raise the issue of tracing retired military witnesses directly with the Secretary of State for Defence. I asked that he consider what steps might be taken, or whether additional resources could be deployed, by the MoD to address the problem that the coroners have encountered with retired military witnesses. In response, the Secretary of State for Defence advised that he was conscious of the importance of securing the full participation of the widest possible range of witnesses, and that the MoD would do all that it reasonably could to facilitate their engagement. I appreciated that response. However, it is clear that much more work is required in the identification and tracing of retired military witnesses and in communication with them regarding participation in the inquest process. I also note the involvement of the MoD in the preliminary hearings on legacy inquests before Lord Justice Weir recently. Those 43 inquests with an MoD involvement represent a significant proportion of the legacy inquests that remain outstanding. I trust that the MoD will respond fully to the requests for information that Lord Justice Weir made in those hearings. Q. But has there been some improvement in the MoD position more recently? A. I think that we have seen an improvement in the help being offered by the MoD. However, that is where I hinted that we needed to ensure that it was carried through into reality. For example, we have seen the MoD instituting better administrative checks on records, including pension records, to look at potential witnesses. We have also seen the agreement that the Royal Military Police (RMP) will use its policing powers, if necessary and possible, to assist the process. That would mean, obviously, that the RMP would have policing powers to go into liaising with outside agencies beyond simply trawling through the MoD records. I think that there is some progress implied; the important issue is whether comments made by Lord Justice Weir are taken into account by the MoD representatives and carried through. Q. Do you ever wish you had stayed on as a social worker or remained an ecumenical volunteer at Corrymeela? A. Corrymeela was always going to be just a one-year experience. I enjoyed my time as a social worker. I don't know that I would have wanted to go back, though. My job in politics is endlessly fascinating, and I have enjoyed my time as party leader and, although it is a tough role as I have said, as Justice Minister. Q. And are you still a bit of a railway anorak? A. I was never an anorak, but I have campaigned for years for a better service between Antrim and Belfast, and particularly at Knockmore for people from the Crumlin area, and a rail link to the International Airport. Q. Are you expecting to see real tangible progress soon on cross-border policing co-operation? A. The first full meeting of the cross-border taskforce (set up under the auspices of Stormont's Fresh Start deal between the DUP and Sinn Fein and the British and Irish Governments) is in the next few weeks. There already was a ministerial meeting in December, and I frequently have discussions with Frances Fitzgerald (the Irish Justice Minister). I think, probably at every meeting I have with her, the issues of operational support for the two police services (arises). I know that there had been discussions ongoing very recently between officials about the refresh to the cross-border policing strategy, which I hope to be able to launch within the next few weeks, subject to timing arrangements at this stage largely because of the elections to Dail Eireann. I believe that good work has been done on that, but it is important that we get the public statement of the relaunch of that strategy. Q. You came in for a lot of criticism over secrecy in relation to the funeral of Robert Black. Have you had second thoughts about how it was handled? A. The way in which the funeral arrangements were made was entirely in keeping with normal practice, not only in Northern Ireland, but England, Scotland and Wales. The comments made in the media did not change the way that was going to be handled. I am very happy to report that Mr and Mrs Cardy (parents of Jennifer Cardy, who was one of Black's victims) have recognised that we carried out the funeral as sensitively as we could in all the circumstances. Q. Next weekend you will be giving the keynote address at your 15th conference as party leader. What will be your message? Is it effectively the launch of your election campaign? A. Well, I will be highlighting the achievements of the party in recent years and talking about our broad themes for the election, but it is not the launch of our manifesto. I will be emphasising the need for Northern Ireland to get away from the pattern of 'stop-go' politics and the need for us to govern in a more effective way than the province has been governed over recent years. There is a line I frequently use when I meet visitors who come here. Is Northern Ireland better than it was before the Good Friday Agreement of 1998? Yes, of course it is. Is Northern Ireland as far on as it should be? No, it is not, because of the failures by others. It remains unclear who will form the new government Ireland will celebrate the centenary of its Easter Rising, which led to independence from British rule, without a government, former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has forecast. Political leaders are scrambling to find allies to form a new administration after one of the most indecisive general election outcomes of recent times. With just a clutch of seats to be decided, the two main political parties are coming under intense pressure to set aside their age-old enmity and forge an unprecedented alliance as confusion reigns about the way forward. But ex-Fianna Fail leader Mr Ahern ruled out his party entering a coalition with arch-rivals Fine Gael, predicting a minority government which will not be agreed upon for at least another month. "There is no way, in my view, that this is going to be resolved before Easter. People can forget that," he said. A massive voter schism after last Friday's poll comes amid national celebrations of the 1916 rebellion, a seminal moment in Irish history which ultimately led to partition and the creation of both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The rising was followed by a bitter civil war, with the country's two main parties being born out of the opposing sides. Despite pressure mounting on the pair to come together to form a "grand coalition" that would restore stability, Mr Ahern said a union was unlikely to work. "It'll come down to a combination, that there are a group of parties, maybe two parties, but a group of parties who are prepared to support a Taoiseach. I think that will happen," he said. "That government will be a minority government clearly because it won't have the numbers but it'll have sufficient support from outside." He also ruled out the prospect of a re-run of the election. "Politicians are exhausted, they've spent a lot of money, their workers have taken leave, they won't want a 2016 election," he said. "Some way will be found to make sure it's not 2016." Taoiseach Enda Kenny is to meet his party leadership while Fianna Fail chief Micheal Martin will open talks this week with his own stalwarts about their limited options. Fractures have already opened within both parties, who have swapped power for decades, about doing a deal with the old enemy. Counting continues today, under the complex and lengthy proportional representation system, for a small number of final seats yet to be decided. Recounts have also been ordered in a handful of constituencies. Fine Gael looks set to be the largest party despite suffering humiliating losses after five years in power implementing austerity, taking a narrow lead over Fianna Fail. Outgoing junior coalition partner Labour has taken a drubbing with a number of its ministers being ejected, although party leader Joan Burton and deputy leader Alan Kelly won fights to retain their seats. Ms Burton said she did not see her party in the next government. Sinn Fein has further increased its vote south of the border, making it the third largest. Gerry Adams' party said it would not prop up either of the two traditional parties. With a large section of the electorate backing smaller parties and independents, the make-up of a new government remains in doubt, if an administration can be formed at all. Such is the uncertainty, senior political figures have talked openly about a new political system, citing continental European-style consensual arrangements or even a power-sharing executive similar to Northern Ireland. Among the battered coalition's biggest casualties were 10 serving or ex-ministers, including Fine Gael's deputy leader and former health minister James Reilly, the party's former justice minister Alan Shatter and Labour's communications minister Alex White. Fourteen men linked to an organised crime gang - some of whom have connections to County Limerick - have been convicted of plotting to steal rhino horn and Chinese artefacts worth up to 57 million (73 million euro) in a series of museum and auction house raids. A jury today convicted four of the gang's "generals" who helped to plan and oversee a string of offences, including break-ins at Cambridge's Fitzwilliam Museum and Durham's Oriental Museum in 2012. John "Kerry" O'Brien Junior, Richard "Kerry" O'Brien, Michael Hegarty and Daniel "Turkey" O'Brien were found guilty after a trial which could not be reported because of similar offences committed by travelling criminals dubbed the "Rathkeale Rovers". The two-month trial at Birmingham Crown Court heard that 10 other men had previously been convicted for their parts in the conspiracy, which included a bungled attempt to steal a rhino head from Norwich Castle Museum in February 2012. Although jurors heard that exhibits stolen in Durham and Cambridge were valued at around 17 million (22 million euro), detectives believe they may have fetched up to 57 million on the "booming" Chinese auction market. At least eight of the men convicted after a four-year international police inquiry have family or business links to the village of Rathkeale. The trial of John "Kerry" O'Brien, 26, his brother Richard "Kerry" O'Brien, 31, their uncle, Daniel "Turkey" O'Brien, 45, and 43-year-old Hegarty was told that a computer used to make incriminating internet searches was found at a house in the County Limerick village. Their trial was due to be heard with a ban on reporters making reference to the "Rathkeale Rovers" or another criminal grouping known as the "Dead Zoo Gang". But a judge opted to ban reporting until the end of the trial - after accepting that previous media coverage of rhino horn thefts across Europe could prejudice jurors. The Republic's Criminal Assets Bureau (CAB) plans to hunt down and freeze Thomas 'Slab' Murphy's assets to recover the 150,000 he still owes in taxes. The repute d Provisional IRA boss and smuggler was jailed at Dublin's Special Criminal Court for 18 months on Friday for not filing tax returns on his farming income. However, CAB is not yet finished with the man reputed to be worth more than 46m, but whom Gerry Adams, the Sinn Fein leader, insists is "a good republican". "CAB has now to move on to the revenue collection process," said an informed source. "Even though he has gone to jail, he still owes the money." The agency is also to pursue a separate civil case against Murphy for unpaid taxes of up to 4m. Two of Murphy's closest associates are also under investigation by CAB over suspected oil-laundering activities. They are now being assessed for what is expected to be a massive tax demand by CAB. The 66-year-old once claimed he was a simple pig farmer, and now works as a yard man at a factory in Crossmaglen in south Armagh. The Special Criminal Court was told that he survives on a salary of 1,000 a month before tax. The bachelor farmer is "single", the court was told, and has no dependants. He lives in a modest house on the Murphy family lands straddling the Border in Ballybinaby, Hackballscross, Co Louth. After his sentencing, Murphy said he did "not own any property at all" and has "no savings". According to the BBC's underworld rich list, 'Slab' Murphy is reputed to have built up a fortune of more than 46m from money-laundering and smuggling cigarettes, oil and pigs. He is believed to have done so while reputedly acting as the IRA's head of operations in charge of bombing, and later as its chief of staff. Security sources believe that Gerry Adams served on the IRA's army council with Murphy. British security forces believed that 'Slab' Murphy was "head of operations" for the IRA in the early 1990s as Northern Ireland edged towards peace, when Adams, and his colleague Martin McGuinness, were joint deputy chiefs of staff. Adams has denied membership of the IRA, but he has remained loyal to 'Slab'. Gardai suspect that Murphy was linked to property portfolios in England, Bulgaria and Dubai but were unable to find enough evidence to seize them. The CAB in the South and its former counterpart here, the Assets Recovery Agency, mounted major operations against the IRA in Manchester and in Louth in October 2005. The ARA was investigating 250 properties in Manchester and London that it suspected were linked to Murphy. He issued a statement denying that any of the properties were his. Six months later, police agencies raided the Murphy lands that straddle the border between Louth and south Armagh. Officers found plastic bags in a hay shed stuffed with cash, cheques and drafts totalling hundreds of thousands of pounds. 'Slab' Murphy was presented with a 4.2m tax demand by CAB following the raids. Murphy at first ignored it and then refused to engage with officers at CAB. Only in recent years, did he begin to interact with the agency. CAB has so far failed to find his supposed fortune. Forensic financial investigators trawled through a warren of bank accounts in Ireland, the UK and the continent but were unable to link funds back to him. CAB and its counterpart, ARA, also failed to find any evidence linking 'Slab' Murphy to the 250 properties in the UK. Some of the properties were owned by 'Slab's' brother, Frank. In 2008, Frank and his wife, Judy, also settled a case taken against them by the Serious Organised Crime Agency in the UK for 450,000, relating to their equity in nine properties in the north west of England. That same year, the three Murphy brothers, Thomas, Patrick and Frank, agreed to relinquish the 630,000 (500,000) seized by CAB in the hay shed to the Irish State. 'Slab' Murphy's brothers, Frank and Patrick, reached a separate settlement with the Revenue Commissioners - believed to be in the region of 780,000. During his trial for tax evasion, 'Slab' Murphy claimed that whatever tax liability he might have had been included in his brothers' settlement with the State. However, the Special Criminal Court judges did not buy that. Despite relinquishing 500,000 to the State, 'Slab' Murphy had enough wealth left over to fund a lengthy legal challenge to his prosecution for tax offences, taking his case all the way to the Supreme Court. Those legal fees are estimated to have run to six figures. The legal fees he incurred in his criminal prosecution are also significant. He was not granted legal aid. He pleaded not guilty and the trial ran for 32 days. He has also footed the bill for the enormous legal costs arising from his failed libel action against the Sunday Times, which accused him of being in the IRA. The jury agreed. Thomas 'Slab' Murphy is to be offered educational programmes as he enters his first full week in prison. He spent the weekend in his own cell in the Midlands Prison, Portlaoise, where many of the Republic's most notorious killers are held. He was transferred from Dublin's Special Criminal Court to Portlaoise Prison on Friday, in accordance with a procedure for all prisoners who are found guilty in the non-jury court. Murphy (66) spent less than an hour in Portlaoise before he was transferred to the Midlands Prison. The move means that the alleged former IRA chief-of-staff is being kept away from prisoners with paramilitary links, who are normally kept in Portlaoise. Among the inmates at the Midlands prison are Graham Dwyer and killer Mark Nash. Depraved Dwyer (43) is serving a life term for the murder of childcare worker Elaine O'Hara (36) in 2012. The sadistic architect stabbed the Dubliner to death during sex. Nash (43) murdered four people in four months, in two unrelated attacks. The Irish Prison Service said it does not comment on individual prisoners, but a source confirmed that Murphy will not receive any special treatment. "He might be high profile in the media but in terms of the prisoners, he is a normal prisoner who was brought in for fraud. Prisoners in Portlaoise don't consider themselves to be criminals. They see themselves as political prisoners. "The likes of the IRA, while it is criminal activity - they don't deem themselves to be criminals despite being in jail for it. They see themselves as prisoners of war or political prisoners." Murphy, now prisoner 102444, was found guilty on nine counts of failing to file tax returns between 1996 and 2004 and received an 18-month sentence. "Because of his links to the IRA he had to be done in the Special Criminal Court. He has not been done for terrorist activity or things like that, he is in for fraud. On arriving he was given an outline of how his day will pan out and what will be available to him," added the source. Thirteen members of an organised crime gang are facing jail after plotting to steal rhino horn and Chinese artefacts worth up to 57 million in a series of museum raids. A jury convicted four of the gang's "generals" - who helped to plan and oversee a string of offences, including break-ins at Cambridge's Fitzwilliam Museum and Durham's Oriental Museum in 2012. John "Kerry" O'Brien Jr, 26, Richard "Kerry" O'Brien, 31, Michael Hegarty, 43, and Daniel "Turkey" O'Brien, 45, were found guilty after a trial which could not be reported because of similar offences committed by travelling criminals dubbed the "Rathkeale Rovers". The two-month hearing at Birmingham Crown Court was told that 10 other men had previously been convicted for their parts in the conspiracy, which included a bungled attempt to steal a rhino head from Norwich Castle Museum. Although jurors heard that exhibits stolen in Durham and Cambridge were valued at around 17 million, detectives believe they might have fetched up to 57 million on the "booming" Chinese auction market. Members of the gang also masterminded an offence at Gorringes Auction House in Lewes, East Sussex, and organised the disposal of stolen artefacts. At least eight of the men convicted after a four-year international police inquiry have family or business links to Rathkeale in the Republic of Ireland. The latest trial was told that a computer used to make incriminating internet searches was found at a house in the Co Limerick town. Other defendants aged between 28 and 68 - from Cambridgeshire, London, Southend-on-Sea, Wolverhampton, Kent and Belfast - either admitted the offences or were found guilty by jurors. They included six members of the same Rathkeale family, travellers' rights campaigner Richard Sheridan, and Donald Wong, a London-based "fence" who made frequent trips to Hong Kong. A previous trial heard that Sheridan - a former spokesman for the Dale Farm travellers' encampment in Essex - was seen in the company of Wong shortly before police found 50,000 in cash in the boot of a car. Sheridan, 47, of Water Lane, Smithy Fen, Cottenham, Cambridgeshire; Wong, 56, of Clapham Common South Side, London; and Richard O'Brien, of Dale Farm, Oak Lane, Billericay, Essex, denied taking part in the plot between September 2011 and August 2012. Hegarty, John O'Brien and Daniel O'Brien, all of Orchard Drive, Smithy Fen, also denied any involvement in the offences but were unanimously convicted. None of the 18 jade exhibits stolen from the Fitzwilliam Museum in April 2012 have been recovered, but a bowl and figurine stolen in Durham were found hidden on waste ground. After the verdicts, Detective Superintendent Adrian Green, from Durham Constabulary, said the offences had been "massively profitable" for the gang. Derbyshire Chief Constable Mick Creedon, the national policing lead for organised crime, said: "This case starkly demonstrates the level of threat, the lengths criminal gangs will go to and the importance of law enforcement agencies sharing intelligence and working together." One of the men convicted has already been jailed and served his sentence. The other 13 offenders will be sentenced in April. Defeated Scott Quigg is recovering after undergoing surgery for a broken jaw he suffered at the hands of Belfast boxer Carl Frampton. The Bury man had his jaw broken during the fourth round of the long-awaited world title unification super-bantamweight clash with Frampton in Manchester Arena on Saturday night. The fight went the distance of 12 rounds with The Jackal winning on points following a split decision from the judges. The fierce rivalry between the pair reached fever-pitch last week as tensions rose in heated clashes at the final Press conference and the weigh-in. Manchester was flooded with fans from Northern Ireland supporting The Jackal in the days leading up to the clash and they cheered him to victory in unifying the IBF and WBA super-bantamweight titles. Read more: Read More After the fight Frampton and his team visited Quigg's dressing room where they were joined by Wayne Rooney - the fighters embraced and wished each other well. As The Jackal returned victorious to Belfast to a hero's welcome with the IBF and WBA belts - Quigg was scheduling a trip to hospital. Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Expand Previous Next Close Carl Frampton celebrates defeating Scott Quigg in Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Carl Frampton will be honoured by Belfast City Council as the City Hall is illuminated in green and white on Sunday evening. William Cherry / Presseye Carl Frampton celebrates defeating Scott Quigg in Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Carl Frampton celebrates defeating Scott Quigg in Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Carl Frampton celebrates defeating Scott Quigg in Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Scott Quigg is lifted up into the air by trainer Joe Gallagher after his IBF & WBA World Super-Bantamweight Championship bout against Carl Frampton at Manchester Arena PA Carl Frampton during Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Carl Frampton (R) connects with a punch on Scott Quigg during their World Super-Bantamweight title contest at Manchester Arena on February 27, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Getty Images Carl Frampton (left) and Scott Quigg during their IBF & WBA World Super-Bantamweight Championship bout at Manchester Arena. PA Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg during Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Carl Frampton (left) and Scott Quigg during their IBF & WBA World Super-Bantamweight Championship bout at Manchester Arena. PA Carl Frampton (right) and Scott Quigg during their IBF & WBA World Super-Bantamweight Championship bout at Manchester Arena. PA Carl Frampton salutes the crowd prior to the World Super-Bantamweight title contest against Scott Quigg at Manchester Arena on February 27, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Getty Images Actor James Nesbitt, former jockey Sir Tony McCoy and Republic of Ireland manager Martin O'Neill watch the action at Manchester Arena. PA Scott Quigg enters the ring prior to the World Super-Bantamweight title contest against Carl Frampton at Manchester Arena on February 27, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Getty Images Carl Frampton (centre) in the ring before his IBF & WBA World Super-Bantamweight Championship bout against Scott Quigg at Manchester Arena. PA Scott Quigg (centre) in the ring before his IBF & WBA World Super-Bantamweight Championship bout against Carl Frampton at Manchester Arena. PA Northern Ireland manager Michael O'Neill pictured at the Manchester Arena as they prepare to watch Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg during Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash. William Cherry / Presseye Gavin McDonnell (left) knocks down Jorge Sanchez during their Vacant WBC Silver & Eliminator Super-Bantamweight Championship bout at Manchester Arena. PA Actor James Nesbitt arrives at the Manchester Arena wearing a Northern Ireland shirt to watch the World Super-Bantamweight Title Fight between Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg at Manchester Arena on February 27, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Getty Images Ryan Burnett from Belfast with Anthony Settoul from France during their Vacant WBC International Bantamweight Championship contest on the undercard of the Frampton Quigg World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Paddy Barnes pictured at the Manchester Arena as they prepare to watch Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg during Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash. William Cherry / Presseye Ryan Burnett hits Anthony Settoul with a right on his way to victory in the Vacant WBC International Bantamweight Championship at Manchester Arena on February 27, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Getty Images Tyson Fury watches the action at Manchester Arena. PA Tony McCoy watches the Ryan Burnett v Anthony Settoul fight from ringside at Manchester Arena on February 27, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Getty Images Marc McCulough, from Belfast, is defeated by Isaac Lowe from Morecambe after his corner threw in the towel during their Vacant Commonwealth Featherweight Championship contest on the undercard of the Frampton Quigg World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Press Eye - Belfast - Northern Ireland - 27th February 2016 - Photo by William Cherry Marc McCulough from Belfast is defeated by Isaac Lowe from Morecambe after his corner threw in the towel during their Vacant Commonwealth Featherweight Championship contest on the undercard of the Frampton Quigg World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Barry McGuiggan pictured at the Manchester Arena as they prepare to watch Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg during Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash. William Cherry / Presseye Hosea Burton knocks down Miles Shinkwin during his victory in the Vacant British Light-Heavyweight Championship at Manchester Arena on February 27, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Getty Images Carl Froch pictured at the Manchester Arena as they prepare to watch Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg during Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash. William Cherry / Presseye Josh Taylor knocks down and stops Lyes Chaibi during his victory in the Super-Lightweight Contest at Manchester Arena on February 27, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images) Getty Images Carl Frampton's father Craig pictured at the Manchester Arena William Cherry / Presseye Charlie Edwards from Epsom defeats Luke Wilton during their Vacant WBC International Silver Flyweight Championship contest on the undercard of the Frampton Quigg World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Luke Wilton from Belfast and Charlie Edwards from Epsom during their Vacant WBC International Silver Flyweight Championship contest on the undercard of the Frampton Quigg World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye Luke Wilton from Belfast and Charlie Edwards from Epsom during their Vacant WBC International Silver Flyweight Championship contest on the undercard of the Frampton Quigg World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. William Cherry / Presseye David Teymur of Sweden celebrates his victory over Martin Svensson of Sweden in the Lightweight Bout during the UFC Fight Night at The O2 Arena on February 27, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Christopher Lee/Getty Images) Getty Images David Teymur of Sweden celebrates his victory over Martin Svensson of Sweden in the Lightweight Bout during the UFC Fight Night at The O2 Arena on February 27, 2016 in London, England. (Photo by Christopher Lee/Getty Images) Getty Images Carl Frampton during the weigh-in ahead of his fight against Scott Quigg in the World Super-Bantamweight unification fight, at Manchester Arena. PA Carl Frampton takes part in a public work out at Intu Trafford Centre Getty Images Happy at his work: Scott Quigg at last nights public work-out at the Trafford Centre in Manchester Getty Images Raring to go: Carl Frampton and his coach Shane McGuigan take part in a public work-out at the Trafford Centre in Manchester last night Getty Images MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Carl Frampton takes part in a public work out at Intu Trafford Centre on February 23, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Getty Images MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Carl Frampton takes part in a public work out at Intu Trafford Centre on February 23, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Getty Images MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Scott Quigg takes part in a public work out at Intu Trafford Centre on February 23, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Getty Images MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Carl Frampton takes part in a public work out at Intu Trafford Centre on February 23, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Getty Images Carl Frampton poses during a public work out at Intu Trafford Centre on February 23, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Getty Images MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Scott Quigg poses during a public work out at Intu Trafford Centre on February 23, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Getty Images Carl Frampton takes part in a public work out at Intu Trafford Centre on February 23, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Getty Images MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: Scott Quigg takes part in a public work out at Intu Trafford Centre on February 23, 2016 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images) Getty Images / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Carl Frampton celebrates defeating Scott Quigg in Saturday nights World Super-Bantamweight unification clash at the Manchester Arena. Frampton tweeted wishing him well in his recovery as he returned to Northern Ireland to find Belfast's City Hall lit up in green and white - the colours of his beloved Northern Ireland football team. Quigg took to Twitter with a picture of his swollen jaw saying: "Very sore but a very successful operation..can't thank you enough for all the support. I will be back soon." Meanwhile it was back to "normality" for Frampton who was enjoying being back home. RESPECT!Carl Frampton and Scott Quigg embrace in Quigg's dressing room after their unification clash; in which Frampton (22-0, 14KO's) defeated Quigg (31-1-2, 23KO's) via split decision to unify the IBF & WBA super bantamweight world titles.This is what we like to see!The duo were joined by Manchester United's Wayne Rooney.#FramptonQuigg Carl Frampton Carl "The Jackal" Frampton Scott Quigg Boxing Irish Boxing Review Irish-Boxing.Com Matchroom Boxing Cyclone Promotions Cyclone Promotions Ringside Showtime Boxing Sky Sports Posted by Ring General Boxing on Sunday, 28 February 2016 He tweeted: "Home sweet home. Bedtime story for my little girl and school run tomorrow. Back to normality." An 11-year-old boy has been killed in a hit-and-run collision. The boy died in hospital shortly after being hit by a car on Moss Street West at the junction with Mowbray Street in Ashton-under-Lyne at 4.45pm, Greater Manchester Police said. The imam of Mosque Hamza, Shayful Islam, told the Manchester Evening News it happened after prayers and the "whole community is in shock and praying for the family". He said the boy had "quite happily came out of the mosque. As he crossed the road there was a car driving at a really fast speed and he got run over". GMP said the car, believed to be a dark grey or black Mercedes A or B class, did not stop at the scene. Sergeant Paul Higgins, of the serious collision investigation unit, said: "A child has tragically been killed in a collision and we are doing all we can to trace the driver of the vehicle. "While we are in the early stages of our investigation we believe the car involved is a dark grey or black Mercedes A or B class and it will have damage to the front nearside headlight. "We would ask if anyone saw the vehicle around the time of the collision, or has seen it since, that they contact us. "It may be the vehicle has been parked up and left somewhere nearby so I would ask people living in the area to check outside their house and call us if they see a vehicle matching the description." David Cameron has rejected accusations that the Remain camp is engaged in a "Project Fear" scaremongering campaign in the EU referendum, insisting that he is interested only in "Project Fact". But his assurance was dismissed as "baloney" by London mayor Boris Johnson, in a further indication of the depth of splits at the top of the Conservative Party over the vote on June 23. Allegations of scaremongering were fuelled by the publication of a new analysis which suggested a vote to leave could create a "decade or more of uncertainty" for exporters, financial markets and two million expatriates. The first official Whitehall analysis of the process of withdrawal, published by Foreign Secretary Philip Hammond, warned that an "out" vote would mark the start of "a period of uncertainty, of unknown length, and (with) an unpredictable outcome". The 23-page document said it was unlikely the terms of withdrawal and future trade arrangements could be fully negotiated within the formal two-year process, opening the door to other EU states demanding concessions in return for an extension. But Brexit-backing Leader of the Commons Chris Grayling dismissed the findings, insisting it would be just as much in the interests of the remaining 27 nations to reach a speedy conclusion to the negotiations. "Why on earth would we think it would take twice as long as the Second World War to be able to sort out our trading relationships with Europe and elsewhere?" he said on BBC Radio 4's Today programme. "W e have a 50 billion-plus trade deficit with the European Union. They sell far more to us than we sell to them, they lose out - their jobs, their businesses are in danger if we do not sort it out quickly." Speaking to students in Ipswich, Mr Cameron rejected the "Project Fear" tag attached to the Remain campaign by supporters of UK withdrawal. "The only project I'm interested in is Project Fact," he said. "Project Fact is about saying, 'Stay in and you know what you'll get'. "This is not about raising concerns and worries which aren't there - they are real concerns and worries based on fact." Mr Johnson told LBC radio during a visit to Northern Ireland: " Project Fear is going into overdrive. They are trying to scare the pants off everybody at the moment, and it's not working. "I think everybody can see that there's a huge chance to make a change and have a better relationship and a more honest relationship with the EU." Scottish First Minister Nicola Sturgeon - who is backing the "in" campaign - cautioned ministers against relying on fear tactics, saying they had backfired when they were adopted by the No campaign in the Scottish independence referendum. "One of the undoubted lessons of the Scottish experience is that a miserable, negative, fear-based campaign saw the No campaign in the Scottish referendum lose over the course of the campaign a 20-point lead," she said in a speech in London. "I don't have to point out to anybody here that the 'in' campaign in this referendum doesn't have a 20-point lead to squander." Cabinet Office minister Matt Hancock denied accusations the Government was stoking fears about the consequences of a vote to leave, insisting the analysis was a "cautious assessment". "The truth is we don't know. Those who are proposing to leave, I think it's incumbent on them to have to explain exactly what would happen," he told the Today programme. "What would happen to the two million Brits who live in other places in the European Union? Would they still have access to free healthcare? There are real consequences of this for jobs and for livelihoods." Mr Hancock was forced to come to the House of Commons to answer growing anger among Eurosceptics over a ruling by Cabinet Secretary Sir Jeremy Heywood that ministers backing the "out" campaign will not receive official papers relating to the referendum. Employment minister Priti Patel said Sir Jeremy's action was "unconstitutional" and accused him of jeopardising the political impartiality of the Civil Service. "Secretaries of state are responsible for their departments. For an unelected official to prevent them being aware of the information they need for their duties is wrong," she said. Influential backbencher Bernard Jenkin suggested the move could conflict with the Civil Service's "duty of honesty". "Nobody objects to the Government making its case in this referendum but most people expect the Civil Service to be impartial in carrying out its support for ministers," said Mr Jenkin, chairman of the Commons Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee. "It is established in law that ministers are accountable for their departments and voters expect Government facts and figures to be impartial and accurate, whether they are used by ministers who support Remain or Leave." Labour deputy leader Tom Watson said Mr Cameron had "a simple choice - either he gives his ministers free rein to run their departments, or he sacks them. It cannot be fudged for the next 114 days". But Mr Hancock said the arrangement was " the best way to manage the unusual situation of ministers who disagree with the Government remaining in post". He stressed that the Civil Service code makes it clear that the "duty" of civil servants is to "support the position of the Government of the day". Olive Cooke reportedly received hundreds of letters from charities asking for money (Family handout/PA) The chairman of the Charity Commission has warned charities not to "hound" people for money through aggressive fundraising techniques. William Shawcross said it is "unforgivable" for charities to relentlessly pursue people for funds. His comments come after a year of funding scandals which have shaken the sector's reputation. Poppy seller Olive Cooke, 92, from Fishponds in Bristol, killed herself in May last year after reportedly receiving hundreds of letters from charities asking for money. An investigation by The Sun newspaper revealed that Age UK made 6 million from energy giant E.ON for recommending a tariff to pensioners which was not the cheapest on the market. Mr Shawcross, who will give a speech on charity fundraising in Southampton, told BBC Radio 4's Today programme: "Hounding is absolutely out of the question and unforgivable and charities should never indulge in it. "We can tell charities that they must not do it, and we do, and I am making a speech in Southampton today saying that the hounding of people by charities is absolutely intolerable. "I met somebody yesterday who said he had texted 20 to an appeal which he had seen on television and subsequently had hundreds of calls to his mobile phone saying 'would you make that 20 into a standing order?' and so on. "People must not be treated like that." He said a new charity fundraising regulator was set up in the wake of claims about Mrs Cooke and bullying fundraising tactics among some charities. He said: "This will have much more teeth and will give the charities the ability to show they can fundraise in their own best interests, and in the best interests of the public. "If they don't manage to succeed, then I suspect the Government will give us, the Charity Commission, the task. But I would much rather, and think it's much better, for charities to do it themselves." The Charity Commission is issuing an alert to trustees at all 1,700 charities, warning them to review their commercial relationships. The regulator says that while it is legitimate for charities to have commercial partnerships to help them raise funds, trustees must protect the reputation of their organisation. Charities must check for conflicts of interest, ensure partnerships are properly documented and reviewed regularly, and that the commercial benefits to the charity are made clear. Those who fail to comply will be subject to regulator action, the Commission warned. A charity said more than a fifth of children diagnosed with retinoblastoma in 2015 had a delay of at least six months from their first visit to a GP or other health professional to seeing a specialist Some babies and young children with a rare form of eye cancer are waiting six months or longer for a diagnosis, a charity has warned. The Childhood Eye Cancer Trust said 21% of children diagnosed with retinoblastoma in 2015 had a delay of at least six months from their first visit to a GP or other health professional to seeing a specialist. About 50 to 60 children are diagnosed with retinoblastoma each year in the UK and almost all will survive. However, some can lose their eyes to the cancer. Stephanie Beasley first noticed there was something wrong with her daughter Ezmai's eye when she was nine months old. Despite four visits to health professionals, Ezmai was not diagnosed until she was two, at which point she needed an operation within a week to remove her eye and stop the cancer spreading. Ms Beasley, 25, from Tamworth in Staffordshire, said: "Ezmai had a lazy eye and we spoke to a health visitor and then took her to the pre-school vision team but they told me to come back in six months. I kept taking her but they couldn't find anything wrong. "My instincts told me there was something wrong with Ezmai but I felt no-one believed me and that I was going mad. "We eventually got referred to Birmingham Children's Hospital and it was there that we were told Ezmai had a tumour in her eye. "We've since learned that she was probably blind in one eye for a year but as she was so young, we didn't realise." Ezmai had the lifesaving surgery to remove her eye in October last year and now wears an artificial eye. Ms Beasley said: "Ezmai has bounced back amazingly and coped so well with everything that has been thrown at her. "She is very energetic and outgoing and she enjoys playing with anything and everything. "Her favourite things are playing with our dog Lady, who is the same age as her, and watching Peppa Pig. She also loves hiding behind curtains and waiting for us to come and find her. "The operation hasn't changed her one bit. Of course, she was groggy when she first came around but the very next day she was having fun in the hospital playroom as if nothing had happened. "Ezmai's older brother Logan, who's six, absolutely dotes on her and has been so caring. There is nothing he wouldn't do for her. "On World Cancer Day he stood up in front of his class and told them about Ezmai and how she had an operation and only had one eye." Symptoms of retinoblastoma include an unusual white reflection in the pupil which may be apparent in photos. Others are a squint, a change in the colour of the iris and a red or inflamed eye, though this is not usually accompanied by pain. Ms Beasley said: "We looked back at an old photo of Ezmai at Christmas in 2014 and we can see a white glow in her eye but at the time we had absolutely no idea this could mean she had cancer." In about 40% of cases, retinoblastoma is caused by a faulty gene, which often affects both eyes. It is not known what causes the remaining 60% of cases. According to the Childhood Eye Cancer Trust, the average waiting time for a diagnosis in 2015 was nine weeks, compared to six weeks in 2014 and seven weeks in 2013. Patrick Tonks, chief executive of the charity, said: " We believe everyone should know that children can get cancer in their eyes and what the signs are, and we work hard to raise awareness among health professionals and the public." Top Gear host Chris Evans is a team player and it is "rubbish" to suggest otherwise, according to a BBC boss. The car show frontman was described as a " passionate presenter" by Mark Linsey, acting director of BBC Television, following reports about Evans's behaviour on the job. The TV chief also said it is "simply not true" to say Evans was against the appointment of Friends star Matt LeBlanc to the show's seven-strong presenting line-up. Mr Linsey was responding to recent speculation about Top Gear which included a report that executive producer Lisa Clark left after just five months on the show due to Evans's behaviour. In a statement, Mr Linsey said: "It is rubbish to suggest Chris Evans's behaviour on the set of Top Gear has been in any way unprofessional. "Chris is a consummate professional and a real team-player. He is a passionate presenter who commits his heart and soul into everything he does - whether his Radio 2 show, Children In Need or Top Gear - and we are extremely fortunate to have him leading the show. "Also, it is simply not true to suggest Chris did not support the signing of Matt LeBlanc, when he has been behind Matt joining the presenting team since day one. "Chris and Matt are part of a wider production team that is full of brilliant and talented people. That team is tight-knit, in great spirits and utterly focused on delivering the best possible series for viewers." When she left, Ms Clark said she was "moving on to new projects", and added: "I'd like to wish production all the very best with the show." The BBC issued a statement thanking Ms Clark for her "incredible work for the last five months readying new Top Gear for its busy filming schedule in 2016 and planned return in May". When she was appointed, Evans said: "Lisa is as good as it gets when it comes to making big, important television shows. She's funny, sassy, super experienced and has always absolutely loved cars." She took the role previously held by Andy Wilman, who left the show after his old school friend Jeremy Clarkson was dropped following a fracas with another member of the production staff. Last week, Clarkson issued a formal apology to the Irish producer he punched in a deal to settle a racial discrimination and personal injury claim. Oisin Tymon launched the action against Clarkson and the BBC after the former Top Gear presenter gave him a bloody lip in a bust-up last March. Clarkson reportedly flew into a rage after being told he could not order steak after a day of filming, calling Mr Tymon a "lazy, Irish c***" during the fracas at a North Yorkshire hotel. No details of the settlement were given, but it is understood to be more than 100,000. Clarkson and the BBC both contributed. The settlement means there will not be an employment tribunal hearing, which could have heaped further embarrassment on the popular presenter. The BBC sacked Clarkson, 55, from Top Gear following the bust-up, prompting his co-presenters James May and Richard Hammond to quit the show. Clarkson, May and Hammond have signed up to launch a rival show on Amazon's TV service. The new series of Top Gear returns to BBC Two in May with presenters including German racing driver Sabine Schmitz and Formula 1 commentator Eddie Jordan. More than 1,000 people complained about the automated calls A cold-calling company that spammed people with a "staggering" 46 million nuisance calls has been dealt a record fine by the Information Commissioner's Office (ICO). Prodial Ltd, based in Brighton, was fined 350,000 by the regulator - its largest ever fine. More than 1,000 people complained to the ICO about the automated calls, which played recorded messages relating to payment protection insurance (PPI) claims. One complainant said they felt "helpless" that they could do nothing to prevent the "intrusive" messages. A doctor who was targeted said the volume of unsolicited calls was hindering their ability to answer the phone in the case of an emergency. Information Commissioner Christopher Graham said: "This is one of the worst cases of cold-calling we have ever come across. "The volume of calls made in just a few months was staggering. "This was a company that knew it was breaking the law. "A company director admitted that once the ICO became involved, the company shut down. "That stopped the calls, but we want to send a clear message to other firms that this type of law-breaking will not pay. "That is why we have handed out our highest ever fine. "No matter what companies do to try to avoid the law, we will find a way to act." The company has since been placed into voluntary liquidation and the ICO is working with liquidators to recover the fine. The regulator has also ordered three Manchester-based companies to stop making unsolicited calls, one of which was operating out of a Grade II listed cottage. A poll has suggested more than half of secondary schools have received more applications this year than they have places available Children could be left without school places if councils are not given more powers to deal with increasing demand, town hall bosses have warned. The Local Government Association has issued a fresh call for authorities to be handed the ability to open new secondary schools, or force academies - which are not under council control - to expand. Without these powers, councils will not be able to meet their legal duty to ensure every child has a school place, it said. The warning comes as a poll suggests more than half of secondaries have received more applications this year than they have places available. Primary schools in England have been struggling to keep up with demand in recent years due to a rising population, and this is moving through into secondary schools. The Government has said it pumped 5 billion into creating half a million new places over the last parliament and has committed a further 7 billion over the next six years. Around half a million 11-year-olds across England are due to find out which secondary school they will be attending this autumn. Last year, around one in six did not get a spot at their first choice. The LGA said academies now make up round 60% of secondary schools, and if they do not agree to expand, and councils are not allowed to open new schools in areas with a need for places, their ability to provide enough places could be at risk. Councils have to plan for a 20% increase in secondary school pupils by 2024, when almost 3.3 million places will be needed, the LGA claimed. Roy Perry, chairman of the LGA's children and young people board, said: "Councils have a statutory duty to ensure every child has a school place available to them but find themselves in the difficult position of not being able to ensure schools, including academies, expand. Finding suitable sponsors with the capacity to take on the running of a successful new school is also proving a challenge. "Councils have already created an extra 300,000 primary places, but those children will soon need to move up to secondary schools. Councils will do everything they can to rise to the challenge of ensuring no child goes without a place, but all schools must play their part too. If academies are not willing to expand, then powers to create new schools should be returned to local authorities themselves if they are unable to secure high quality free school sponsors in their communities." In a survey of 1,188 school leaders, conducted by The Key, 59% said they had received more applications for this autumn than they are able to take. Around 86% said they would find it difficult to meet the extra demand, citing reasons such as insufficient budget and lack of space. Leora Cruddas, director of policy at the Association of School and College Leaders, said that meeting the need for new school places is "challenging and complex", with some areas lacking space to build. "Providing more school places is not just about quantity it is also about quality. This means having sufficient resources. Unfortunately, schools are facing a double-whammy of real-terms funding cuts and a teacher recruitment crisis. Existing and new places must be accompanied by sufficient funding and teacher supply." A Department for Education spokeswoman said: "Instead of scaremongering, the LGA needs to ensure they use the funds provided by Government to secure enough places. "Councils are responsible for ensuring there are sufficient school places in their area, and we expect them to plan effectively and make good investment decisions. This requires certainty, which is why funding is allocated three and a half years in advance of places being needed - giving councils time to plan while still allowing the flexibility needed to make adjustments should local circumstances change. "Where local authorities identify the need for a new school they are required by law to invite proposals to run a new free school and then forward these to the department to decide who would be best placed to do this." An actor playing the role of an unconscious disaster victim A policewoman organises actors who are playing the parts of injured victims Those taking part in the exercise are covered in dust A view of the scene as the final touches are put to the setting for the training exercise at Littlebrook Power Station in Dartford, Kent Emergency crews took part in a graphic mock-up of the aftermath of a building collapse into a Tube station to test their response to mass casualties. Blood-covered "victims", fake dead bodies and actors with sliced limbs and open wounds were part of the biggest disaster training exercise ever seen in Europe. The scenario, at a disused power plant near the Dartford river crossing in Kent, involved a mocked-up Waterloo Tube station being "crushed" by thousands of tonnes of rubble following a building collapse. Following year-long planning, blue-light teams and other professionals were tested on their ability to deal with more than 1,000 casualties as seven Tube carriages were entombed. Firefighters, police officers and ambulance staff were involved in the operation alongside London local authorities, Transport for London and the capital's air ambulance. London Fire commissioner Ron Dobson said: "Exercises of this scale are important to ensure that we are always ready to respond no matter what happens. "You can't get this sort of experience from a text book. We need to play it like it's real and ensure that should the worst happen, our response is effective and well-co-ordinated." The teams' response would be "rigorously observed" by independent evaluators so lessons can be learned from the exercise, he added. Exercise Unified Response, funded by the European Commission Exercise Program and co-ordinated by the London Fire Brigade, also involved utility companies and search and rescue teams. Disaster victim identification (DVI) teams from all UK police regions were working alongside other forensic specialists. In total, more than 250 personnel were working at the scene and in a specially-constructed temporary mortuary during the four-day exercise. Chief Constable Debbie Simpson, of the National Police Chiefs' Council, said: "Victim identification is never a pleasant subject to discuss but it is unfortunately a reality. "When disaster strikes, families need to be confident that the authorities are doing everything they can to identify their loved ones in a dignified and respectful way, whilst supporting any criminal investigation. "Importantly this process cannot be hurried. As frustrating as this can sometimes be, especially in a world of fast paced mainstream and social media, we have to be meticulous in our approach to ensure we achieve reliable scientific identification. "It's not often we get to test working practices on such a scale and it's really positive to see so many of our European colleagues involved. Effective evaluation and debriefing will help highlight good practice and any areas for development." No flights have been able to land or take off after a spillage on the runway at Gatwick Airport Dozens of flights were delayed and diverted when the runway at Gatwick was closed due to a suspected oil spillage. A spokesman for the West Sussex airport said the runway was shut shortly after 10.15am and did not reopen until 11.38am. According to Gatwick's website a t least 19 incoming flights were diverted to other airports, and a number of departing services were delayed. An airport spokesman said: " Arriving and departing flights recommenced from Gatwick at 11.38am. "The runway closure has caused some flights to be diverted to other airports in the area and there will be delays to some departing flights. "Friends and family waiting for passengers should contact the relevant airline for the latest information." Passengers on diverted flights took to social media to complain about the delay in completing their journeys to Gatwick. Ryan Brackpool, who was travelling to the UK from Australia, expressed his anger at being informed the plane he was on - which landed at Heathrow - would not take off again for Gatwick for another three hours. He posted on Twitter: "Come on @Gatwick_Airport. Sort this out. We can't disembark at LHR. But we have to stay for three hours on the plane! Very poor communication!" Another passenger, Jade Louise Davis, wrote: "Does Emirates really expect an entire plane to sit at Heathrow for three hours before doing a half hour journey back to Gatwick?!? Let us off!!" According to reports the spillage was caused by a Virgin Boeing 747 jet. A passenger going by the username Bunny Hulme posted on Twitter: " Gatwick-Berlin flight delayed nearly 5 hours. Diabolical. I hope you have the decency to refund us all #berlin #notsoeasyjet." Joe Corlett wrote: "Detained on wrong runway after Gatwick re-route. No disembarking permitted despite 3-4 hour delay...to fly 30 miles. Nice." Mayor of London Boris Johnson, who is campaigning for Britain to leave the European Union in the forthcoming in/out referendum Here is a timetable of what could happen if the UK votes to leave the European Union, based on information from the Cabinet Office and the European Council: :: June 24 2016: Referendum result shows that a majority of the UK has voted to leave the European Union. An EU summit, already scheduled for June 23/24, could respond immediately to the result. :: Early July 2016: Emergency legislation is passed by the UK Parliament, before the summer break begins, to start the process of withdrawal. This would include invoking Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty, which is necessary to formally declare the UK's intention to leave the EU. :: July 2016: An emergency EU summit could be held to agree the timetable for negotiating the UK's withdrawal and to approve the invoking of Article 50. :: October 20/21 2016: An EU summit, already scheduled for these dates, could formalise the timetable for UK withdrawal, along with plans for any treaty changes. :: From autumn 2016 to 2018: Talks continue to agree the terms of the UK's withdrawal. These would be led by the European Commission. Under Article 50, negotiations must be complete with two years. :: By summer 2018: Negotiations on withdrawal would need to be concluded. Member states and the EU Parliament would then vote on the terms of the UK's application to withdraw. Some 20 of the 27 countries need to vote in favour for the application to pass; a majority of MEPs also need to agree. :: By the end of 2018: the UK would leave the EU. Alternatively: :: 2018-20: The negotiation period could be extended, but only with the unanimous support of member states. If there is not unanimous agreement, the UK will be ejected from the EU automatically when the initial two-year negotiating period elapses. If the negotiations do continue, treaty changes may have to be passed by the parliaments of the remaining 27 countries before the UK's withdrawal becomes official. :: Between 2018 and 2020: David Cameron is expected to stand down as Conservative leader and prime minister. :: May 2020: date of the next UK general election. Talks for the UK to leave the EU could still be under way. Pauline Cafferkey was transported to a London hospital in a protective tent last week Ebola nurse Pauline Cafferkey has been discharged, the Royal Free Hospital said Ebola nurse Pauline Cafferkey has been discharged from hospital after being treated for the third time for a complication linked to the disease. The Royal Free Hospital said the Scottish medic was released on Sunday and is "not infectious". The 40-year-old was originally infected with the killer disease while working in Sierra Leone in December 2014, and she was flown from Glasgow to the London hospital on February 23 for her latest treatment. In a statement, the Royal Free said: "Pauline Cafferkey has today been discharged from the care of the Royal Free Hospital following her admission due to a complication related to her previous infection by the Ebola virus. "We can confirm that Pauline is not infectious. The Ebola virus can only be transmitted by direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person while they are symptomatic." Ms Cafferkey spent almost a month in an isolation unit at the Royal Free after being flown home from west Africa. She was released after making a recovery, but she fell ill again in October last year and was again treated at the Royal Free for meningitis caused by Ebola. At one point, the Scottish nurse was described as ''critically ill'' but she was discharged in November and transferred to Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital to continue her recovery, and later returned home. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said on Tuesday last week that Ms Cafferkey was in a stable condition at the city hospital after "routine monitoring" identified a problem. She was later flown to London. Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt tweeted: "It's fantastic news that Pauline Cafferkey has been discharged from hospital. Outstanding care again from @RoyalFreeNHS #NHSheroes." French riot police have fired tear gas as demolition teams moved in to start dismantling makeshift homes at the Calais migrant camp known as The Jungle. Tear gas was used reportedly in response to stone throwers at the slum - home to around 4,000 people, many of whom are intent on reaching Britain. British volunteers condemned the response from the French authorities as it emerged that water cannon had also been sent into the site. Tanya Freedman, of Help Refugees, said: "We're very disappointed because the French interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve insisted in a public statement that the clearance would be done in a humane fashion. "On the first major day of dismantling, this is the way they are going about things." Lines of police vans gathered on the perimeter of the southern section and people were prevented from going on to the site. The action came after a judge in Lille ruled last Thursday that a partial clearance should go ahead, apart from social spaces including schools and places of worship. French authorities want to relocate people from the squalid, rat-infested site to heated containers nearby or to centres around France. Campaigners had called for a postponement to remove people from the slum, saying there was not enough new accommodation for people to move to. A spokesman for Doctors of the World said its medics had been unable to enter as the entrance was blocked by police. Basic supplies and care materials were being prepared for those evicted. Its UK director, Leigh Daynes, said: "Dismantling a large part of the main Calais camp is irresponsible and inhuman. It completely ignores needs on the ground and will just traumatise people already close to the edge. "It won't stop refugees coming to Calais nor make the thousands there already disappear. People will just be forced elsewhere to live in even more squalid conditions." Elaine Oritz, of the Hummingbird Project, which has been supporting Calais migrants and refugees, also said volunteers were not being allowed into the camp. She said teams started arriving at The Jungle at around 8am, telling people they had an hour to leave the southern section of the camp. "By dispersing people elsewhere, it means all the protective factors given to the people (at The Jungle), including medical help, will be removed," she said. Human rights organisation Liberty said political leaders should not be "looking away" from the plight of refugees at The Jungle, including unaccompanied children. Some have criticised the decision to send in demolition teams, including Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron, who said razing the camp was not the solution. But British hauliers welcomed last week's court's judgment. The Freight Transport Association (FTA) said disruption caused by migrants cost the UK freight industry an estimated 750,000 a day last year. FTA officials said a solution needed to be found to protect the 89 billion of UK trade which passes through cross-Channel ports annually. An official at Haikou's Longhu police station said the incident was under investigation. A man slashed 10 children with a knife outside a primary school in southern China before killing himself, police said. Media reports said two of the pupils were seriously hurt in the attack in the city of Haikou on Monday, but none suffered life-threatening injuries. An official at Haikou's Longhu police station declined to give further details and said the case was under investigation. Knife attacks against schoolchildren have become fewer in recent years after Chinese schools were hit by a rash of stabbings roughly five years ago. The attacks, mostly carried out by perpetrators with mental health issues, sparked outrage among Chinese parents who demanded enhanced security at schools. In one of the deadliest cases, a 42-year-old man killed eight children at an elementary school in Fujian province in 2010. Janice Dickinson sued Bill Cosby over his denial of her claims that he drugged and raped her in Lake Tahoe in 1982 (Channel 5/PA) A judge in Los Angeles is due to consider whether to dismiss model Janice Dickinson's defamation lawsuit against Bill Cosby. The comedian's lawyers want Dickinson's case to be dismissed because they say she has given differing accounts of her interactions with Cosby over the years. Dickinson sued Cosby in May 2015 over his denial of her claims that he drugged and raped her in Lake Tahoe in 1982. She says she tried to include the story in a 2002 memoir, but her publisher refused. Cosby's former lawyer has denied her claims and branded the model and reality television star a liar. Dickinson's suit states that the denial caused her to feel re-victimised about the incident. Dozens of women have accused Cosby of sexual abuse, but in most instances the statutes of limitations have passed. One of Pope Francis's top advisers acknowledged that the Catholic Church "has made enormous mistakes" in allowing thousands of children to be raped and molested by priests over centuries. The admission in testimony at an extraordinary public hearing of an Australian investigative commission was made just a few blocks from the Vatican. Cardinal George Pell testified late on Sunday via videolink from a Rome hotel to the Royal Commission sitting in Sydney. In the front row of the conference room were two dozen Australian abuse survivors and their companions who had travelled across the globe to be on hand for Mr Pell's testimony. The lead counsel assisting the commission, Gail Furness, is questioning Mr Pell about current Vatican efforts to address the scandal as well as his past in Australia, including how he dealt with abuse allegations. Mr Pell asserted at the start: "I'm not here to defend the indefensible. The church has made enormous mistakes and is working to remedy those." The cardinal said too many legitimate allegations about sexual abuse from credible sources were often dismissed "in scandalous circumstances". Swedish IT entrepreneur Robert Ilijason shows how to use a mobile phone to scan a purchase at his unmanned shop in the southern Sweden village of Viken (AP) A Swedish IT specialist has opened the country's first unmanned, 24-hour convenience store. Robert Ilijason, 39, said he was inspired after a chaotic late-night scramble to buy baby food with a screaming toddler in the back seat. Customers at the store in Viken, southern Sweden, use their mobile phones to unlock the door with a swipe of the finger and scan their purchases. All they need to do is register for the service and download an app. They get charged for their purchases in a monthly invoice. The shop has basics like milk, bread, sugar, canned food, nappies and other products that you expect to find in a small convenience store. It does not have tobacco or medical drugs because of the risk of theft. Alcohol cannot be sold in convenience stores in Sweden. "My ambition is to spread this idea to other villages and small towns," said Mr Ilijason. "It is incredible that no one has thought of his before." He hopes the savings of having no staff will help bring back small stores to the countryside. In recent decades, such stores have been replaced by bigger supermarkets often many miles away. Mr Ilijason receives deliveries at the shop and stacks products on the shelves. Then he lets the customers do the rest. He has installed six surveillance cameras to discourage shoplifting in the 480-square-foot store. Also, he is alerted by a text message if the front door stays open for longer than eight seconds or if someone tries to break it open. "I live nearby and can always run down here with a crowbar," Mr Ilijason said laughing, but added that has not been necessary since the store opened in January. A bigger challenge has been getting some of the elderly residents in Viken, a town of 4,200 people, to get the hang of the technology involved. Tuve Nilsson, 75, said there were many more shops in the town when he moved here with his family in 1976. He welcomed Mr Ilijason's new store, saying it could be convenient for elderly people living alone. "But if they can manage this (technology), I don't know," Mr Nilsson said. "Sometimes I don't understand it." Mr Ilijason is considering other ways to unlock the door that would not require using an app. He has ruled out face-recognition or fingerprint scanners, but is thinking of installing a credit card reader like some banks use. He is also considering having one person man the store for a few hours a day to help customers who are not comfortable with modern technology. Other customers loved the speed of the no-service store. Raymond Arvidsson, a friend of Mr Ilijason, did his shopping in less than a minute. "No queues," he said, smiling. "Quick in, quick out. I like." Iranian clergymen vote in the parliamentary and Experts Assembly elections at a polling station in Qom (AP) Iranian moderates have won a majority in parliament, dealing a major blow to hardliners in the first elections held since last summer's landmark nuclear agreement with world powers. Final results released by the Interior Ministry and broadcast on state TV show that reformists, who favour expanded social freedoms and engagement with the West, won at least 85 seats. Moderate conservatives, who also supported the nuclear agreement, won 73, giving the two camps a majority in the 290-seat assembly. Hardliners, who had opposed the deal, won just 68 seats, down from more than 100 in the current parliament. Five seats will go to religious minorities, and the remaining 59 will be decided in a run-off, likely to be held in April. Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli said turnout was 62%. Moderates also won a 59% majority in the Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body which will choose the successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been Iran's Supreme Leader since 1989. The 76-year-old underwent prostate surgery in 2014. President Hassan Rouhani and former president Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, both considered moderates, retained their seats in the assembly, according to the Interior Ministry. However, several prominent hardliners, including Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, have also been re-elected. Jannati is also the leader of the Guardian Council, an unelected, constitutional watchdog that vets election candidates. He has been a leading opponent of democratic reforms and has pressed for the disqualification of reformist candidates. Out of 3,000 reformists who applied to run in this year's elections, just 200 made it through the vetting process. The Assembly of Experts is elected every eight years. Moderates previously held around 20 seats in the assembly. North Korea has presented a detained American student before the media in Pyongyang, where he tearfully apologised for attempting to steal a political banner. Otto Warmbier said he tried to take the banner from a staff-only section of the hotel where he had been staying for a member of a church back home who wanted it as a "trophy". North Korea announced in late January it had arrested the 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. It said that after entering the country as a tourist he committed an anti-state crime with "the tacit connivance of the US government and under its manipulation". No details of what kind of charges or punishment Mr Warmbier faces were immediately released. According to Mr Warmbier's statement, he wanted the banner with a political slogan on it as a trophy for the church member, who was the mother of a friend. In previous cases, people who have been detained in North Korea and made a public confession often recant those statements after their release. He was arrested while visiting the country with Young Pioneer Tours, an agency specialising in travel to North Korea, which is strongly discouraged by the US State Department. He had been staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, which is located on an island in a river that runs through Pyongyang, the capital. It is common for sections of tourist hotels to be reserved for North Korean staff and off-limits to foreigners. In his comments, Mr Warmbier said he was offered a used car worth 10,000 US dollars (7,190) by a member of the church. He said the church member told him the slogan would be hung on its wall as a trophy. He also said he was told that if he was detained and did not return, 200,000 dollars (144,000) would be paid to his mother in the form of a charitable donation. Mr Warmbier identified the church as the Friendship United Methodist Church, which is in his hometown, Wyoming, Ohio. Meshach Kanyion, pastor of the church, declined to comment. Mr Warmbier's parents said they had not heard from their son since his arrest and were greatly relieved to finally see a picture of him. "You can imagine how deeply worried we were and what a traumatic experience this has been for us," Mr Warmbier's father, Fred Warmbier, said in a statement provided by the University of Virginia. "I hope the fact that he has conveyed his sincere apology for anything that he may have done wrong will now make it possible for the (North Korean) authorities to allow him to return home," he added. The university said it had no immediate comment other than that it was in close contact with Mr Warmbier's family. Mr Warmbier told reporters in Pyongyang that he had also been encouraged in his act by the university's "Z Society," which he said he was trying to join. The magazine of the university's alumni association describes the Z Society as a "semi-secret ring society" that was founded in 1892 and conducts philanthropy, puts on honorary dinners and grants academic awards. Mr Warmbier said he accepted the offer of money because his family is "suffering from very severe financial difficulties." "I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money," he said, adding that if he ever mentioned the involvement of the church, "no payments would come". North Korea regularly accuses Washington and Seoul of sending spies to overthrow its government to enable the US-backed South Korean government to control the Korean Peninsula. People gather at the scene of deadly bomb attacks in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, on Sunday February 28 (AP) A suicide bomber has targeted an Iraqi funeral, killing at least 25 people including a local Shiite militia leader. Another 52 people were wounded in the bombing in Muqdadiyah, about 60 miles north of Baghdad. The town saw a wave of revenge attacks after a similar bombing in January. The dead included a local commander in Asaib Ahl al-Haq, a powerful Shiite militia group that is part of the state-sanctioned Popular Mobilisation Forces, responsible for much of the security in the area. The Islamic State group bombed a cafe frequented by militiamen in Muqdadiyah in January, killing at least 32 people and triggering a series of revenge attacks on Sunni mosques and civilians. The New York-based Human Rights Watch blamed the reprisal attacks on powerful militias within the Popular Mobilisation Forces. No one immediately claimed responsibility for the latest attack, which came a day after a double bombing in Baghdad claimed by the IS group killed 73 people. The initial blast ripped through a crowded market in the Shiite district of Sadr City. A suicide bomber then targeted the crowd that gathered to help the victims. Some 112 people remain in hospital. Sunday's bombings marked the deadliest single attack in the Iraqi capital in months, fuelling fears that the IS group is resorting to mass attacks on civilians as it suffers battlefield setbacks. IS still controls much of northern and western Iraq, but has been driven back in recent months. The government recently declared the western city of Ramadi "fully liberated". IS had captured the city last year. Laura Dore is one of the most sought after video vixens in the world.And with a body like this,i dont think anyone should find it dif... A Syrian man rides a bicycle through a devastated part of the city of Homs (AP) UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has said a ceasefire in Syria is holding "by and large", amid growing accusations of violations that threaten to derail the truce, now in its third day. Speaking in Geneva, Mr Ban confirmed he had received a letter from the High Negotiations Committee, the main umbrella opposition group, complaining of continuing violations by the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian backers. The letter urged the UN to help "specify the territory covered by the truce to prevent hostilities in the designated inclusion zones". The Russia and US-brokered ceasefire that went into effect at midnight on Friday excludes the Islamic State group as well as al Qaida's branch in Syria, the Nusra Front. The ceasefire has significantly reduced violence across the war-ravaged country, bringing some respite to civilians particularly from air strikes. But accusations of breaches by both sides threaten to torpedo the deal, which aims to bring back the Syrian government and the opposition to peace talks in Geneva next week. Mr Ban said he wanted the ceasefire extended beyond the initial planned duration of two weeks. The UN also said it plans to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance to about 154,000 people living in besieged locations inside Syria over the next five days. The Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said the aid will include food, water and sanitation supplies, as well as non-food items and medicine, for people trapped in besieged areas. Aid deliveries are a main opposition demand ahead of the planned resumption of Syrian peace talks in Geneva on March 7. An attempt to start indirect peace talks between the sides collapsed earlier this month over escalating violence in the country, including a massive Russian-backed government offensive in Aleppo. Meanwhile, Lebanon's militant Hezbollah group said it had recovered the body of a senior commander, Ali Fayyad, who was killed during fighting in the Aleppo region. The Shiite group, which fights alongside president Bashar Assad's forces in Syria, said the body of the commander, locally known as Haj Alaa, was recovered on Sunday night. Fayyad is a Hezbollah veteran who has led major battles against the Israeli army in south Lebanon. Lebanese media said he was among four Hezbollah fighters killed in Aleppo last week. The opposition reported air raids on several parts of northern Syria and warned that continued violations would jeopardise the planned resumption of peace talks. Riad Hijab, who heads the HNC, a Saudi-backed opposition group, said Russian, Iranian and government forces have not stopped hostilities since the truce went into effect. He said there had been 24 cases of shelling and five of ground attacks. He added that Russian warplanes carried out 26 airstrikes on Sunday alone targeting rebels that are abiding by the truce. As a witness to the massacre of 1982, Robert Fisk went back often to a place of memories and ghosts, to talk to the survivors Sabra and Shatila were the scene of war crimes. In September of 1982, Israels Lebanese Christian allies watched by Israeli troops who had surrounded the Palestinian refugee camps massacred up to 1,700 civilians. It was a place of horror and, much later, of memorial. The mass grave still lies beneath a tide of mud behind a stand of trees where Syrian refugees sell cheap shirts and DVDs. But the names of Sabra and Shatila are today associated with a shame which no one could have imagined 34 years ago . Drug-dealing has now tainted the camps by the Syrians more than the Palestinians and there have been murders and, most tragic of all, prostitution. No one in Sabra and Shatila hides their sorrow. The massacre, the survivors grief, the years of misery and the siege by Shia Amal militiamen who killed more Palestinians than the Israelis did not break the Palestinians, but it doesnt take long today to understand the depth of their despair. What do you expect when a refugee population lives in this poverty and when they have less and less money? one of the local camp leaders asked as we walked the narrow alleyways so narrow that your shoulders rub the slum walls on each side. The Lebanese do not allow Palestinians to work outside the camps, the UN relief money is getting less and less, some have families abroad who send money to them. Others do not. The man was right. Where refugees live, the mafia arrives, the people-smugglers; the cruel and the rapacious thrive amid sorrow, just as they did in Bosnia after the war of 1992-95. The Palestinians first arrived in Sabra and Shatila in 1948. It took almost 70 years and the 1982 massacre before the shame of drugs and prostitution touched this place. Nor is it on a scale to attract attention. Only a very few Palestinian women have left the camps they must leave for the sake of family honour and moved elsewhere in Lebanon, to Jounieh north of Beirut, according to a political official in the camps. As a witness to the massacre of 1982, I went back often to this place of memories and ghosts, to talk to the few survivors. Sabra and Shatila are scarcely two miles from my Beirut home. There were five thousand Palestinians in the camps in 1982, perhaps only 3,000 today. But an article in one of the local Beirut papers had caught my attention. A middle-aged Palestinian, it reported, had been shot dead by two Islamists on a motorcycle. Did this mean that the Isis cult had infected even Sabra and Shatila? In which case, Isis was in Beirut. The moment I arrived, I was told that no, the newspaper story was untrue. The Lebanese government had claimed the murderers were Islamists in order to enhance their own prestige for taking one of the killers into custody. Arab governments line up to tell the world these days that they are fighting Isis in the hope the West will give their armies more guns. But this story, too, I discovered, was untrue. Ahmad Hazineh was a good and decent man. No criminal. He did indeed help supply his people with clean water and electricity for a pitifully small sum, but he fell foul of the local mafia who wanted him to collect more cash from the Palestinians. He refused and so they murdered him. But when Suheil Natour of the Democratic Front and I began to prowl these foul-smelling streets, we were faced with anger of the rawest kind. One middle-aged man saw my camera and burst out from his iron door, his face dark and lined. How dare you people take pictures of us? he screamed, another man beside him, shaking in fury. How dare you humiliate us? Do you know this place is filled with mice and huge rats and we live in this shit and sewage and stench and there are thieves and drugs and prostitution? He actually used the word prostitution. He understood the shame. He was shouting so loudly now that Suheil tried to restrain him and put his arm on the mans shoulder. He threw it off. But Suheil had noticed something else. A poster dedicated to a Palestinian martyr, a newly murdered man, Ahmad Hazineh, also known as Abu Wassem, whose home by extraordinary coincidence was next to us, just beside the shouting man and his companion. And there stood in the doorway a young woman, listening sadly to this fit of screaming next door. People here are very angry, she said, smiling. Yes, Ahmad Hazineh was my father. He died on 28 January, just a month ago. He was a good man. He helped everyone. The mafia killed him. Yes, there are drugs and prostitution in the camps. But my father looked after my brother and sister and myself and he told me every day that I must be educated. He sent me to college in England. I have been to London and Newcastle. And Nirmeen Hazineh, dark-haired and still smiling, talked again of her love for her father, and she saw how the names of London and Newcastle where, more than half a century ago, I was a cub reporter on the local paper touched us. It was as if a beautiful light had suddenly been switched on amid the vile slums of Sabra and Shatila, brighter than any lamp her father could have lit with his electricity supply. Nirmeens English was impeccable. She talked of her hope for better days. There was still some justice, she said. One of her fathers alleged murderers had been arrested, a man who was now in Roumieh prison north of Beirut. Mohamed al-Kasar has been charged with the killing and awaits trial. And of course, I cruelly remembered that not one of the Christian militiamen who, in sight of the Israelis, slaughtered 1,700 of Nirmeens fellow Palestinians, was ever charged with any crime. And then I realised that Nirmeen was only 26, that the massacre had occurred well over seven years before she was born. And that, to have maintained their identity and resilience in this wretched place for so long, the Palestinians must survive. Independent A popular joke in Dublin at the weekend was that the Civil War had finally ended after 94 years. The point is that both major parties, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, trace their origins back to the bloody conflict between adherents to the Treaty that ended the War of Independence. Then followers of De Valera wanted to fight on and took out their wrath on their former comrades, led by Michael Collins. You wouldn't know it by the look of them today, but those IRA purists became Fianna Fail, winning their first shot at running the country in 1932, 10 years after the Civil War, when De Valera became Taoiseach and appointed as ministers old gunmen who had served under his command. Sound familiar? The question then as now was how much time might decently pass before the blooded and the bloody can be trusted to form a government. Only now the question is about Sinn Fein, which is in rapid ascent. That worries the main parties and many of the voters 19 years after the bombing stopped, Sinn Fein having waited almost twice as long for power in Dublin as De Valera's crew did. Today the country's political profile is in flux and forming a government presents a challenge that will require many to do what they said they never would. Sinn Fein, the third largest party now, says adamantly that it will not share power with either of the big two. This may be a way of not wanting to be seen to be suggesting it. Both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael have said that they would not share power with Sinn Fein. Which means, logically, that they must share with each other. That's what prompts the joke that the Civil War is now over. But will they patch up historic differences and govern together? The advice against doing that says that it would put Sinn Fein in the position of being the main opposition party. And oppositions become governments in time when governments fall, as they do, especially those which are as fractious a patch-up as that one would be. But can we really imagine these two traditional parties of government scuppering their own prospects of power just because they don't like the party that would replace them when they fail? Sinn Fein surely can't be seen to be refusing power either if out of the current mess a chance emerges to grasp it. It doesn't want to be the junior partner that traditionally discards its values and crumbles in coalition, but if it sends that signal to the electorate that it really doesn't want high office yet, or trigger another election, the electorate might decide that it is not serious. That is not the only paradox it confronts. Gerry Adams has injected huge energy into the party in recent years. Yet, despite having enlarged it, he appears to be a liability. Few doubt that Sinn Fein would have done even better in the South if he had not botched major interviews during the election, and if he had not stood so loyally by "good republican" Thomas 'Slab' Murphy. He has yet to explain just what Murphy did that was of such value to the party, given that he has never held office in it. In a normal party, a leader who was potentially such an embarrassment would stand aside, take the plaudits of his comrades for his achievements and let Joshua enter the promised land. But what would happen then? Can we imagine a southern leader of Sinn Fein being accepted in the North, or Pearse Doherty and Mary Lou MacDonald consenting to be led by, say, Conor Murphy? The ultimate irony for Sinn Fein, post Adams, would be that it would itself be partitioned, and stand as proof that the division of the country is the natural order. That the settlement that provoked Civil War and spawned the modern IRA was, ultimately, all that was possible. That's another way in which this election result offers to draw that chapter to a close. In just under four months Northern Ireland, like the rest of the United Kingdom, will face one of the biggest questions of our time. Do we stay in a reformed European Union, or leave for good? This is not about whether we could make a go of things outside the European Union. Of course we could. I believe in the United Kingdom head, heart and soul and I know we will always be successful whatever path we choose. The real question is this: are families and businesses in Northern Ireland better off if we are inside a reformed EU, or out on our own? My view is clear: we are all better off, safer and stronger by staying in a reformed EU. Northern Ireland will be better off because businesses here will have full access to a free trade single market of 500 million people that delivers jobs, investment and lower prices in the shops. Today as many as 50,000 jobs in Northern Ireland are linked to trade with the rest of the European Union. In fact food and drink and farming as a whole account for a fifth of all Northern Irelands exports, with almost 90 per cent now going to the EU. The people who want us to leave cannot tell us what our status would be outside the EU in terms of trading with our former partners. Some argue for simply opting for World Trade Organisation (WTO) status and rules, which could mean paying tariffs on our exports, including food. So this decision will be particularly important for Northern Irelands farmers. The Ulster Farmers Union has said they think food prices in Northern Ireland would increase if we left the EU. Their concerns include the loss of a key market and tighter north-south trade controls. It is vital that the voice of Northern Irelands farmers is heard and that those who want us to leave the EU answer their questions. Those who believe we should leave also have to be clear about two other things. First, they are wrong to suggest that it would be possible for Northern Ireland to cut its corporation tax without facing any reduction in its Block Grant from Westminster. If we wanted to trade with Europe, then the same rules would probably still apply, and in any event no Government could ever simply waive the costs of a tax reduction like this in one part of the UK. Second, those who advocate leaving need to explain what it would mean for the Common Travel Area between the UK and Ireland. I am clear the UK will never be part of the passport-free Schengen zone, but I do want to sustain free trade and movement between the UK and the Republic of Ireland. I know how important it is to business and communities that the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland remains fully open. There was 4bn worth of trade between the two parts of the island in 2014, and the Republic is by far Northern Irelands largest export market. So those arguing to leave need to explain how they would prevent the delays, extra bureaucracy and costs to business that would come with the introduction of physical customs controls on the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic? How would they avoid having to introduce immigration checks on the border, when the Common Travel Area relies on the fact that the UK and the Republic have similar immigration arrangements? These are questions that need to be answered. Soon it will be time to make your choice. Leave a leap in the dark to years of risk, economic danger and uncertainty for Northern Ireland and for the future of the whole UK; or stay, giving us a safer, stronger, more prosperous UK, standing united with real clout on the world stage. And if we stay our plan for Europe gives us the best of both worlds in the single market with a say over its rules but out of the parts of Europe that dont work for us like the single currency and the commitment to ever closer political union. Its a decision that will shape the destiny of Northern Ireland and the future of our children and grandchildren. Ill be voting to remain. I hope the people of Northern Ireland will, too. Theresa May has been accused of trying to rush through controversial new surveillance laws before the EU referendum campaign, after it emerged that a new snoopers charter will be introduced in the Commons this week. The Home Secretarys draft Bill giving spy agencies sweeping powers to monitor peoples web history was attacked in a series of parliamentary reports earlier this month, sparking calls for it to be entirely rewritten. A joint committee of MPs and peers has claimed that Mrs Mays proposed overhaul of spying laws was flawed and set out 86 proposed changes. However, Mrs May will formally bring forward the Governments Investigatory Powers Bill on 1 March. This has sparked concern that ministers want to bounce MPs into backing the new surveillance powers. The former Tory leadership contender David Davis said there was no doubt that the Government wanted to rush the Bill through Parliament to avoid scrutiny. Government whips have told Labour that the Bill will be published on 1 March, with a second reading giving MPs a line-by-line debate on the Bill scheduled for 14 March. The Bill will then go to committee stage for scrutiny on 22 March, with a final vote expected in Parliament by the end of April. Mr Davis said: When you work it out, its a 300-page Bill so thats something like five seconds to consider each line on second reading. There was no operational reason to rush it through, he said, adding that existing emergency legislation brought in in 2014 could be extended for a year. Mr Davis said: It all keeps with their strategy, which is to rush everything through. They know when they engage with experts they lose. This is the way they will try to get this through on the rush. Theres no doubt about it. Andy Burnham, the shadow Home Secretary, told The Independent on Sunday that he would withdraw Labours support for the Bill unless Mrs May backs down and allows lengthy scrutiny of the proposals. He said: The law needs to be updated to help the police investigate serious crime and protect us against terrorism. But my offer to work constructively with Theresa May only stands if Parliament is given enough time to carefully scrutinise this Bill. It needed to be considerably revised after three expert reports just a matter of weeks ago. For Labours support, ministers must show they have listened to our calls for greater transparency, stronger safeguards and protection of peoples privacy. It is crucial that this Bill is not rushed and necessary time is given to consider these complex issues. A Labour source added: The Tories cant rush through poor legislation just so they can devote more time to the [EU] referendum. Theyve tied themselves in knots over Europe but doing this wont help. The Bill is the Governments second attempt at creating new digital surveillance powers for the security services. The first the original snoopers charter was dropped after Nick Clegg vetoed its introduction in 2013 over privacy fears. A year later, Parliament rushed through the Data Retention and Investigatory Powers Act emergency piece legislation to give the security services new surveillance powers. However, a replacement Bill is needed before the end of 2016. Mrs Mays new proposal aims to bring together a patchwork of existing rules about government surveillance under a single law. One of the most contentious aspects of the Bill is a proposal to force internet companies to store records of peoples web and social media use for up to a year. Earlier this month, the Labour peer Lord Murphy, who chaired the joint parliamentary committee which scrutinised the Bill, said Mrs Mays planned surveillance powers needed a significant amount of work to do before Parliament can be confident the provisions have been fully thought through. The former Labour Northern Ireland secretary added: The fact that we have made 86 recommendations shows that we think that part of the Bill is flawed and needs to be looked at in greater detail. There is a lot of room for improvement. Lord Strasburger, a Liberal Democrat peer who also sat on the joint committee, added: Why is Theresa May trying to rush the huge and very complex Investigatory Powers Bill through Parliament? Mrs May claims its because one of the existing laws expires at the end of this year, but she could easily fix that problem by extending the deadline for another year. The real reason is that although the Home Office pretends it wants a mature public debate, actually it does not like having to justify what would be the most intrusive snooping powers any Western government has into its citizens private lives. He added: What is needed is for the Government to slow down and go back to drawing board. The Government is adamant that new surveillance powers are needed to give the security services the same ability to monitor criminals and terrorists online as they do already for telephone calls. A Home Office spokesperson said: "The Government is aiming for the Investigatory Powers Bill to pass through Parliament and receive Royal Assent by the end of 2016. "We have always said the new legislation would be subject to full public and Parliamentary scrutiny to ensure we get this right. That is why we published the Bill in draft form last November since when it has been studied in detail by a joint committee of both Houses of Parliament along with other leading Parliamentary committees. "Investigatory powers have been the subject of six separate reports and rigorous examination in the last two years and these have played an important role in developing the proposals in the Bill. Once introduced, the Bill will be subject to full Parliamentary scrutiny, following the normal Parliamentary timetable. Independent The Les Politiques blog refutes the idea of a clash of civilisations as asserted by International Relations theorists such as Samuel P. Huntington. In short, the article posted there appeals against the idea of an inevitable clash between political, military and ideological spheres called civilisations, (Huntington divides us all into Western, Confucian, Islamic, Slavic-Orthodox, Latin American civilisations as the main warring parties in the world today). The Les Politiques article instead submits that this is an attempt to justify US hegemony through war (conveniently to be waged in a conflicted Europe rather than the neocons safe homes in the US). The argument given is that instead, we should look at reconciliation between values and adjust all our values to coexist where there are any differences. However, as I believed, this is to be done through dialogue. We cant, as westerners, sit and simply decide for the world what the right mutual value system is going to be. Shallow talk of the goodness of western freedom or democracy has no place in such dialogue. As the post states, the clash of civilisations implies a confrontation. It is both a testimony to the neocons warring agenda as well as to their backward thinking. Wars arent needed today to establish contacts with other civilizations. Todays means of communication are many, multi-level, fast and easy. Anyone who tries to communicate across the gulf of the so-called clash of civilisations is thwarting the neocons backward agenda and is putting forward instead the models of positive globalisation reconciliation and multiculturalism. Wisdom emerges through the maximum possible diversity. Only by knowing the most diverse places, people and values can you create a set of values everyone will be universally comfortable with. That task we do is not merely an intellectual exercise, either, but is essential to humanitys safety and security in a world where globalisation is accelerating. It is an important point mentioned at the Mont Order, whose role I think includes trying to discuss all different global values and try to form a consensus to show an example of what is possible. The post revealing writes that there Wherever there was a clash of values, the neocons created wars resembling a clash of civilizations with their lot of humiliations, provocations and blasphemy of religious symbols, leading to a greater clash of values, reinforcing in a loop the clash of civilizations. This is obviously true. Whenever the issue of Muslims sensibilities or their religious perception of right and wrong comes to the fore, which is the main issue of importance to the analysis at Les Politiques, we get no end of media headlines making it out to be a fundamental clash between western civilisation and the Islamic world. If the analysis holds true and I will argue it does we are not looking at all at anything that needs to be a war scenario or where one side needs to beat the other. Instead, the solution is dialog. A recognition of why any clash of values exists, and how to accommodate both sets of values to reduce offense, is absolutely necessary for the purposes of harmony and positive globalisation. We have every possible tool to make communication and dialogue on many issues, including values, easy and natural and it cannot be denied that dialogue on values can be much more enriching than the forcing of western values on Muslim societies. I will finish by quoting further, The clash of civilizations is an idea as backward as the barbaric terrorism it sets out to explain and fight by curtailing our civil liberties and creating an artificial wedge between civilizations destined to increase their common ground in an era of rapid communications where societies are becoming more open and more welcoming. These comments speak exactly my own conclusions on this issue and I ask everyone to side with the path of dialogue and true pluralism that informs my attitude to Muslims, rather than the path of offense, locating and bringing up grave differences, and trying to dictate what the right universal values are in such a way that someone is the victor. I see this as important. I believe Europe and even Britain are going to become a focal points of this developing attempt to start a conflict. It is Europe, now, where everyone must reduce offence and try to remedy any grave differences of values and culture especially over individual-vs-collective well-being. Cultural assimilation is absolutely wrong and only cultural tolerance should be practiced. People across the pond in the US might be able to safely ignore that struggle or even inflame it like some kind of new Cold War against Islam, but the peace of many parts of the world depends on dialogue in the long term. No-one can be allowed to dictate a clash of civilisations to us all. I would go even further and advocate reforming all political platforms and pressure groups in Europe to take Muslim sensibilities and political theories into consideration even at this early juncture, rather than letting them focus exclusively on promoting the usual set of western ideologies. He was part of the most vicious killing squad that killed 23,000 people during Adolf Hitlers rein during WWII. Part of the mobile death squad Einstazkommando 10a, Helmut Oberlander, worked to exterminate civilians and Jews when he joined at the age of 17. At 92, he free and is on Simon Wiesenthal Center's list of the most wanted Nazi war criminals. For the last 20 years he has been fighting against deportation from Canada, and won another reprieve according to published reports. A statement said Oberlander was a member of one of the most savage Nazi killing units [clearly] lied about his wartime past to fraudulently gain entry into this country is not in question nor the legal consequences of falsification of immigration documents. The Holocaust killed 11 million people were murdered, including children, the disabled, and gays. Although many of the soldiers and servers of Adolf Hitlers regime are dead or in the late stages of life, they are still being tracked down to pay for their heinous crimes against humanity. Many fled and found safety in South America, Canada, Russia, and went underground in the United States. Simon Wiesenthal Center's explained what the Einstazkommando actually did. Allowing Oberlander to walk is a disgrace."Einsantzkommando10a killed babies, children, women, men and those categorized by the Nazis as being physically or mentally infirmed. If murderers such as Oberlander are not prosecuted, what precedent is set for the future?" In 2014 Johann Breyer was arrested in Philadelphia after he was charged for gassing over 200, 000 Jews at Auschwitz. He died shortly after being arrested. In 2015, Oskar Groening was charged for accessory to murder of 300,000 people in the concentration camp of Auschwitz. The former bookkeeper was also found guilty of taking arrivals money and jewelry and sent them to the Nazi headquarters. Johann Robert Riss was sentenced to life in prison for killing 184 people in Padule di Fucecchio, Italy. The Italian court demanded the German government pays restitution for the murdered victims families. It didnt happen. Justice still needs to be served for those people who perished under Hitler no matter what the age is, and the list is dwindling. The Simon Wiesenthal Center released in 2015 a status report on the Prosecution of Nazi War Criminals. The report ran from from April 2014 through March 2015 about the progress. The most important positive results achieved during the period under review were obtained in Germany, in the wake of the implementation by the local judicial authorities of a legal strategy, which paves the way for the conviction of practically any person who served either in a Nazi death camp or in the Einsatzgruppen (mobile killing units). This approach, which was successfully used in Germany for the first time in about fifty years in the case of Ivan Demjanjuk, who was convicted for his service as an armed SS guard in the Sobibor death camp. Corine Gatti is a Senior Editor at Beliefnet.com. Many believed conservatives remained at home during the last election cycle when Republican Mitt Romney ran for against Barrack Obama in 2012. Columnist Karl Rove wrote in The Wall Street Journal that this assumption is incorrect. John McCain had less evangelicals vote for him in 2008. The six million who did not vote were entirely conservatives, and were not passionate about either of them. These missing moderate, white Catholic and women voters who didn't vote in 2012 can be motivated to vote for a Republican candidate in 2016 if they think that candidate cares about people like them, he shared in 2015. The staple of the GOP campaign is swaying Christians to vote with their values like standing against abortion, faith in God, and the Constitution. Sen. Ted Cruz told a crowd at Liberty University believers are just not voting. One reason is that for some, they dont really indentify with one religion, and the younger generations are not being affiliated with any religion. The landscape has changed. Today roughly half of born-again Christians arent voting. Theyre staying home. Imagine instead millions of people of faith all across America coming out to the polls and voting our values. What we do know people are fed up with both parties and special interests, and evangelicals have heard the speech before. Cruz is Bible-believer, who talks about his background in the church, but then GOP candidate Donald Trump (not quite the same background) took 33 percent of the Christian vote in the Nevada primary in February. Cruz garnered over 200 endorsements from Christian leaders in South Carolina only lose to Trump. RNC chair Reince Priebus said there is a certain appeal with Trump, according to The Washington Post: Im not one of these people that think that Donald Trump cant win a general election. I actually think there is a huge crossover appeal there to people that are disengaged politically that he speaks to. Trump taps into the culture. Some people in politics dont get it, dont understand it, are frustrated by it. It doesnt matter. He does. Perhaps people are just giving up on the prospect of a better nation, and leaders. The system is corrupted by greed, lies, and deals that are no benefit to the American people, this includes believers. The GOP has failed them in Washington. It is not just believers--The Atlantic explained. It is Middle America--they are being squeezed, and fading away with every election. They are disgusted by political leaders, and they dont trust them. Why should they? Life for many is not as good as it was. "White Middle Americans express heavy mistrust of every institution in American society: not only government, but corporations, unions, even the political party they typically vote forthe Republican Party of Romney, Ryan, and McConnell, which they despise as a sad crew of weaklings and sellouts. They are pissed off. And when Donald Trump came along, they were the people who told the pollsters, Thats my guy. Also, evangelicals have evolved on issues like gay marriage and have changed since Ronald Regans time. So if they feel they have no choice they dont vote. Pew research found that 35 percent of adults considered themselves as Christians, but who are they really, and will they vote in the general election if they dont like the GOP nomination? What is the alternative--give a vote to the Democrats by not going to the polls? Corine Gatti is a Senior Editor at Beliefnet.com. Technology is progressively changing the world in every forum thinkable especially in the medical realm. The days of calling the doctors office to make an appointment and sitting in a waiting room for an extended amount of time is no longer an only option. Many insurance companies now offer virtual doctor visits obtainable through an app. Obviously a virtual doctors visit does not replace an annual examination. Nor should it be utilized if a patient is suffering from never before experienced symptoms. However, if youre suffering from a cold that usually requires the standard antibiotic then a virtual appointment is considerable. Last year, Doctor on Demand raised $21 million and announced a partnership with insurance provider United Healthcare. The app connects patients with board-certified doctors, psychologists and lactation consultants 24 hours a day from a pool of about 11,000 professionals. The company, Doctors on Demand, was started by Phil McGraw, Jay McGraw and Adam Jackson in 2012. Like similar sites, Doctors on Demand, advises patients that their physicians do not treat chronic conditions including cancer. Virtual doctor visits help alleviate waiting room lines and keep other patients out of the emergency room. Many ill patients will go to an emergency room or an after-hours doctor facility for minor complications such as pink eye or hives. However, the power of technology allows these patients to stay home and simply use their device (phone, tablet, or webcam) to visit with a physician. And the best part is if a prescription is required, doctors have the ability to send medications directly to your local pharmacy. With the success of virtual visits many more insurance companies are uniting with similar companies to offer these services. MDLIVE is another company that offers their health services via their app. Their Telehealth solutions provide users with the opportunity to research doctors and view ratings left by other patients. In addition, the co-pay to see a physician virtually is the same as a walk-in visit with your doctor. Live Health Online is another app receiving a lot of traffic since their partnership with Optima Health carriers. They also advertise their services for commonly treated conditions such as cough, cold, minor rashes, allergies, diarrhea, ear pain, fever, flu, headache and pink eye. There is a wide range of doctors available across the nation and the site offers health tips to educate patients on what to watch out for and healthy living tips that they should incorporate into their everyday lifestyle. Its amazing how technology has and continues to impact the medical field. The ability to virtually visit a doctor helps people all over the United States. Not only is it convenient, but it also helps alleviate the traffic that doctor offices receive on a daily basis for conditions that can be easily treated. Angela Guzman is an Editor at Beliefnet.com. Indian activists carry placards denouncing Jaish-e-Mohammad leader Masood Azhar, following an attack at the Pathankot Air Force base, Jan. 4, 2016. Pakistans arrest of three suspects linked to the attack has not lessened Indias call for Azhars arrest as well. Reports about Pakistans arrest of three suspects in connection with last months attack on an Indian air base is unlikely to end a months-long diplomatic impasse between New Delhi and Islamabad, analysts in India say. By making some arrests in connection with the attack, Pakistan wants to demonstrate to the international community that it is seriously investigating the attack and is committed to act against cross-border terrorism, Imtiyaz Ahmad, a New Delhi-based political analyst, told BenarNews. These arrests dont seem like a major setback to militant groups like Jaish-e-Muhammad (JeM) and Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT) that are active in Pakistan, he said. On Saturday, a counter-terrorism court in Lahore sent suspects Khalid Mahmood, Irshadul Haque and Muhammad Shoaib to six days of police custody, according to a report in Pakistans Dawn newspaper. Mahmood, Haque and Shoaib are the first suspects officially arrested and charged with involvement in the Pathankot attack since India provided evidence to Pakistan that the assault was plotted and managed by Pakistan-based JeM leaders. The trio is accused of facilitating the Jan. 2 attack on the base in Pathankot, in northwest Indias Punjab state, the report said. The attack left seven Indian security personnel dead. Unless Pakistan arrests JeM leaders, it will not be able to satisfy India or resume the stalled dialogue process, Ahmad said. Following the attack, foreign secretary-level talks scheduled for Jan. 15 between the two rivals were postponed indefinitely. Pessimistic The talks were part of renewed efforts to mend long-strained ties between the two sides, which have had a bitter relationship since the Indian subcontinents partition in 1947. News of the arrests came about a week after Pakistan registered a First Information Report (FIR) on Feb. 19 against unknown persons, even as Delhi urged Islamabad to book JeM chief Masood Azhar for the Pathankot attack. But in a televised interview last week with India Today, Sartaj Aziz, a foreign affairs adviser to Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, said the JeM chief had been in protective custody since Jan. 14. Explaining why the FIR contained no names, Aziz said it was only a first-stage report and subsequent FIRs will definitely carry names. Whenever a crime happens across the border, it is much more difficult to pursue the legal requirements because we dont have the locations or evidence, Aziz said. According to Pakistani media reports, Mahmood, Haque and Shoaib were arrested by officials of the countrys counter-terrorism department at a rented house in a town in Pakistani Punjab some 70 km (43 miles) from Lahore. It was still unclear when the arrests took place or what charges were brought against them. Pakistan has proposed sending its special investigating team to Pathankot to probe any Pakistani link to the air base attack. India has yet to accept the proposal. Sameer Patil, a security analyst at Mumbai-based think-tank Gateway House, said international pressure was mounting on Pakistan to act sternly against terror. India has conveyed to the international community that it has provided Pakistan with credible leads in the Pathankot attack incident, he told BenarNews, adding, But I am pessimistic that Pakistan will take any serious action against the real conspirators. Following the 2008 Mumbai attack, which was claimed by LeT, Pakistan made a few arrests, but it was later found that those arrested were not even remotely connected to the conspiracy, Patil said. It is possible the latest arrests have only been made to placate the pressure mounting on the Pakistani government, he said. Attendees at a seminar in Pattani, Thailand, watch a pre-recorded video message from Awang Jabat, the chairman of MARA Patani, an umbrella group representing southern rebels in informal talks with the Thai government, Feb. 28, 2016. Three years after the Thai government kicked off formal peace efforts in the violence-wracked Deep South, the two sides remain mired in the trust-building phase. Those efforts stalled for longer than a year at one point, but they are still stuck in phase one even though Thailands now-ruling junta repeatedly said that it expected to strike a peace deal with the rebels before the end of 2015 phase two. A member of the governments negotiating team now says that the military-led government has set a June 2016 deadline for the signing of an agreement. Last week, Lt. Gen. Nakrob Boonbuathong told reporters in Bangkok that he hoped dissidents would sign an agreement to solve the differences sometime during the first half of this year. However, he did not say what would happen if both sides failed to agree to a deal by the end of June. An agreement would pave the way for the drafting of a road map to peace in the Deep South the third phase of the process. On Sunday, around 100 people turned out in Pattani province for a seminar marking the third anniversary of the signing of a document by Thai officials and representatives of southern rebel groups, which set the last round of formal peace talks in motion on Feb. 28, 2013. Those Malaysia-brokered talks stalled in December 2013 under a civilian-led government, when the rebel side posted an online video listing demands that were deemed as unacceptable to the Thai side. It wasnt until last year that the junta, which toppled Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra in a May 2014 coup, resumed efforts aimed at persuading insurgent groups to return the formal negotiations table. Since last May, the junta and representatives of rebel groups have held a series of back-channel meetings aimed at jump-starting formal talks. After the latest [off-the-record] talks in Penang earlier in February, we are near to clinching a conclusion of a term of reference an agreement to solve the differences, Nakrob said Thursday at the Foreign Correspondents Club of Thailand, but without giving a specific date. He said the peace process was still in phase one because it has support of only 50 percent from the rebel side. Fifteen percent to 20 percent of rebels strongly opposed the process while another 30 percent are neutral on the issue, Nakrob conceded. Peace not impossible to realize: rebel negotiator A peace agreement would aim to end an insurgency in the predominantly Muslim, Malay-speaking Deep South in which more than 6,000 people have died in related violence since January 2004. On Saturday, a car bombing outside a police station in Pattani injured at least seven people, Agence France-Presse reported. The next day, during Sundays seminar at the Pattani campus of Prince of Songkla University, the Thai armys top commander in the region said the military fully endorsed the peace efforts. Security agencies accept the peace talks. They never objected to it because peace talks [represent] a universal approach, Maj. Gen. Shinawatra Mandesh told the seminar. If the military could contain violence in the region and both sides finally could reach an agreement to solve their difference, the saga will end, he said. The seminar also featured the screening of videotaped message from Awang Jabat, the head of MARA Patani, an umbrella group representing various rebel groups and factions in informal negotiations with the junta. MARA Patani will be a friend as well as an opponent at the negotiation table, Awang said in the 18-minute video. Establishing peace in Patani is not impossible to realize. Peace can be achieved with commitment and sacrifice, when both sides acknowledged failures and mistakes in the past through dialogue and negotiation process, he added. Awang also acknowledged that the setting up of so-called safe zones, or ceasefire zones that are among the confidence-building measures included for phase one, have been hard to achieve. We have already noted that the local people have voiced their demand to set up safe zones. Setting up safety zones in a conflict area has never been easy and it could not be announced by just one side as we had heard. No one has ever done so, Awang added, alluding to the army Fourth Regional command, which Maj. Gen. Maj. Gen. Shinawatra leads. No side should try to be an only victor Sundays seminar was organized by Deep South Watch, a local NGO that monitors the conflict and serves as a platform for discussing ways to end it. Professor Srisompob Jitpiromsri, the director of Deep South Watch, said it was time for both sides to jump-start the peace process. We want to see peace talk get going forward, he told BenarNews. Both sides must offer reasonable conditions. No side should try to be an only victor. Each of them must make concessions and dont corner the other, or violence will come back, Srisompob warned. ein Google-Unternehmen Google-Dienste anzubieten und zu betreiben Ausfalle zu prufen und Manahmen gegen Spam, Betrug und Missbrauch zu ergreifen Daten zu Zielgruppeninteraktionen und Websitestatistiken zu erheben. 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Sofern relevant, verwenden wir Cookies und Daten auerdem, um Inhalte und Werbung altersgerecht zu gestalten. Wir verwenden Cookies und Daten, umWenn Sie Alle akzeptieren auswahlen, verwenden wir Cookies und Daten auch, umWahlen Sie Weitere Optionen aus, um sich zusatzliche Informationen anzusehen, einschlielich Details zum Verwalten Ihrer Datenschutzeinstellungen. Sie konnen auch jederzeit g.co/privacytools besuchen. For Immediate Release, February 29, 2016 Contact: Miyoko Sakashita, (510) 844-7108, miyoko@biologicaldiversity.org Dune Lankard, (907) 952-5265, dlankard@biologicaldiversity.org Center for Biological Diversity Hires Tribal Leader, Conservationist, Fisherman, 'Hero for the Planet' Dune Lankard as New Alaska Representative ANCHORAGE, Alaska The Center for Biological Diversity has hired Dune Lankard, an Alaska Athabaskan Native from the Eyak tribe with a distinguished history of community and environmental activism, as its representative in Alaska. Lankard grew up subsistence and commercial fishing in the Copper River Delta and Prince William Sound until 1989, when the Exxon Valdez oil spill devastated the region and dedicated Lankard to the cause of wild salmon habitat preservation. He has started several conservation campaigns and nonprofits, served on the boards of environmental and tribal organizations, and been widely lauded for his tireless work. Dune Lankard brings a wealth of local knowledge and organizing experience to the Center, said Miyoko Sakashita, the Centers oceans program director. Alaska is ground zero on issues from climate change to habitat preservation. Dune has been doing outstanding work for decades, and were thrilled to be working with him. As a commercial fisherman, tribal leader and committed conservationist, Lankard operates in an intersection that is crucial to Alaskas future. Lankard founded the Copper River Wild Salmon Company and works with local fishermen on sustainable practices. He is the founder and chair of the NATIVE Conservancy Land Trust and the Cordova-based Eyak Preservation Council; he has worked on successful campaigns to prevent resource-extraction roadways across the Copper River Delta and, with grassroots and statewide organizations, helped preserve 765,000 acres of wild salmon habitat in the Exxon Valdez oil-spill zone. In 1998 Lankard aka Jamachakih, or little bird that screams loud and wont shut up reunited the Eyak Traditional Elders Council, which later won a key Alaska Supreme Court case preserving 75,000 acres of Eyak rainforest. Time magazine named him to its Heroes for the Planet list in 1999, and in 2009 Utne magazine cited him among its Visionaries Who Are Changing the World. Dune is also an Ashoka fellow and a Prime Movers fellow, recognized for his social-change and entrepreneurial work. Im excited to be working with the Center on our shared mission, Lankard said. The more we protect the intrinsic rights of indigenous and all people, the better chance we have of preserving our remaining green strips of habitat that support thriving sustainable communities and economies that depend on irreplaceable pristine lands and oceans. Lankard will help the Center continue its work in Alaska to preserve habitat for salmon and other wildlife, prevent destructive logging practices in the Tongass National Forest, protect endangered species such as the polar bear and Cook Inlet beluga, and help Alaskans stop new offshore-oil projects and deal with the effects of climate change. The Center for Biological Diversity is a national, nonprofit conservation organization with more than 990,000 members and online activists dedicated to the protection of endangered species and wild places. Sustainable Brands Cape Town has announced its speaker lineup for SB'16 Cape Town. The conference will take place from 14-17 May 2016 at Century City Conference City. The over 100 speakers will lead discussions into how to innovate brands for sustainability. South African sustainability practitioners, as well as select international business leaders, will host interactive discussion groups, breakout sessions, plenary presentations and networking activities. Speakers will address how to: Innovate for regeneration through better business strategy and reporting Examine the macro trends and drivers of emerging markets Navigate behaviour change via effective communication Reinvent supply chains, and Enable sound enterprise development. KoAnn Skrzyniarz, CEO and founder of Sustainable Brands, will host the opening plenary of the conference and set the scene for four days of extraordinary learning, networking and sharing amongst the top thought leaders and their peers. Speakers and topics include: Mohamed Samir, president: India, Middle East and Africa, Procter and Gamble P&Gs best brand stories from Africa where growth and social development have become inseparable Seapei Mafoyane, CEO, Shanduka Black Umbrellas Enterprise development and how innovation and entrepreneurship are key to social and economic transformation Jason Drew, African Innovations Foundation Prize winner and mastermind behind the award-winning AgriProtein business that is transforming the animal feed market by using organic waste to generate protein-rich feed for livestock The Environmental Capitalist - how innovation is transforming energy and food security Saint-Francis Tohlang, South Africas leading young business mind and trends analyst - New pathways to development and how brands can emulate human qualities in creatively contributing to social and environmental solutions that will lead to new developmental pathways in emerging markets Dr David North, former UK head: Corporate Affairs, TESCO, and now group executive: Strategy and Corporate Affairs, Pick n Pay - How the food retailing industry has adapted to meet the new demands of managing food security and supply chains David Schwartz, sustainability entrepreneur, designer and researcher from the United States, will share case studies from his personal international experiences with Fortune 500 organisations, NGOs and social enterprises Examining how design and development can influence entrepreneurs, policymakers and all others dedicated to the pursuit of social impact Deon Robbertze, programme director, Sustainable Brands Cape Town, and director, Change Agent Collective, notes: The programme for this first event on the African continent has been carefully curated to showcase and inspire how sustainability-led innovation is the core focus of brands that are leading a new economy based on transparency, innovation and purpose. For more information, including a programme overview for the conference, go to http://events.sustainablebrands.com/sb16ct/. Nedbank asked hundreds of delegates, attending this year's Design Indaba, how a decommissioned ATM could be turned into a work of wonder to create a brighter future. The winner, Kath Farrell, a Johannesburg based product manager, came up with the idea to dispense hotel perks, such as mini shampoo bottles and breakfast muffins which often go unused. Her idea gives her a two week experience at the state of the art Google Creative Lab in Sydney, Australia. An ATM is a great way to transfer resources from those who have them in abundance to those who have very little through a very simple transaction, explains the creative, who was moved after spending a day with township entrepreneurs in Khayelitsha where she realised that a lack of resources didnt have to be an impediment to innovation. Head of group advertising at Nedbank, Buli Mbha, said Farrells idea, which creatively makes a difference through the sustainable use of resources while reducing waste, captured the banks ethos of making things that really matter happen. The wonder of creativity is in its extraordinary power to heal, inspire and change the world. Kaths application answers that call by designing a three-fold solution, which reduces waste, solves a social problem and helps us repurpose decommissioned ATMs. A key theme of the 2016 Design Indaba, known the world over for assembling the worlds top creative minds across disciplines, was how the wonder of creativity can bring change to society. Nedbank took its cue from this and introduced the Nedbank Wonderland Project, a concept that challenged a team of engineers, programmers and designers to repurpose a decommissioned Nedbank ATM in real time. Over the course of the three-day conference, held at Cape Towns Artscape complex, the team repurposed the ATM into a community movie projector, a game arcade and finally, a fully functioning breathalyser, which gauges intoxication levels and dispenses a taxi voucher for people who are over the legal limit. As a bank that is highly involved in communities and the environment, we remain committed to finding innovative and sustainable solutions designed to assist in the socio-economic transformation of our country, concludes Mbha. The phrase 'A picture is worth a thousand words' is very true when it comes to blogging. Nowadays, people are bombarded with tons of content on a daily basis. Using images will make your blog posts stand out from the crowd and thus grab the readers attention. This will enhance their chances of reading through the content, which is likely to increase your followers, subscribers and leads. The good news is that there are numerous sites where you can find free images to use. However, attracting traffic to your blog is not just about grabbing random photos and inserting them in your posts. You need to have a strategy. Here are some great tips for using images in your blog posts: 1. Optimize your images One of the things people look for in a site is fast loading times. If your pages take too long to load, many visitors might not be patient enough to wait. One of the main reasons for slow loading sites is large images. Therefore, to speed up your site, be sure to optimize your images. You can use tools such as ImageOptim, KrakenIO and Radical Image Optimization Tool (RIOT) to resize and compress your images. In addition, you need to optimize your images for search engines. Be sure to add alt text which contains keywords to your images. This will enhance the ranking of your pages. Dont forget to change the file name of your image before uploading it. 2. Be consistent It would be advisable to be consistent in the way you use images in your blog posts. For example, you can choose to align all your images to the right or left. Alternatively, you could use images which cover the entire width of your content area. Placing images in a consistent manner will make your posts look organized and thus enhance the user experience for your readers. 3. Use infographics The human brain processes information much faster when it is presented in form of a picture. Therefore, instead of writing conventional blog posts, you could use infographics instead. This will increase engagement with your audience. Tools such as Venngage, Canva, Piktochart and Visme come with templates which you can use to create amazing infographics within minutes. 4. Host on your server Most people use images that are linked to external sites. However, if such external sites decide to remove the images from their servers, they will no longer appear in your blog posts. In addition, if they feel that you are using a lot of their bandwidth, they could prohibit you from linking to their site. To avoid all this, it would be advisable to host the images on your own server. 5. Use images of real people One of the most effective ways of engaging your audience is by using photos of people in your blog posts. It would be advisable to use photos which focus on the face since this will allow you to connect emotionally. For example, if you are writing about a product, using the image of a person will help prospects not only see it but feel it. As much as possible, it would be advisable to use images of real people rather than generic stock images. Like this article? Read further on the topic: Six tools for generating perfectly sized images for social media Vanguard specialised transport and plant installation company has been awarded the transport and crane erection contract for the Nojoli Wind Farm near Cookhouse in the Eastern Cape. The Nojoli project comprises 44 Vestas V100 2MW wind turbine generators, which have the capacity to generate more than 275GWh per year or enough for 86,000 South African households. In recent years we have transported and erected over 160 turbines at wind farms around South Africa, said project and mechanical engineer, Robbie Boshoff. The companys contract commenced with discharging the vessel in December 2015 at the Port of Ngqura near Port Elizabeth, and storage at the port. The team on this tight-deadline project had an early start to the year, arriving back to discharge a second vessel on 2 January 2016 with further vessels to be discharged throughout the project. Specialised transportation The contract will run until 23 June 2016 and involves not only the discharge and storage at the port, but also specialised transportation of all components to site, about three and a half hours away, followed by the erection of the turbines utilising Vanguards GTK1100 crane. A fleet of extendable and multi-axle trailers transports the components, which include nacelles weighing 72 tons, hubs of 21 tons, and turbine blades of 50 metres in length. Among the challenges to be managed on this route to site is a mountain pass with very narrow turns, said Boshoff. We work with the traffic authorities to close off the pass entirely, so that our extendable trailers can safely use the whole road to manoeuvre the blades through the turns. On site, the GTK crane is assisted by a dedicated and specialised team, including two qualified Red Seal riggers, who lead the team to assemble and break down the crane, so that it can be moved and positioned for the next turbine - each process taking around ten hours. Another team pre-populates the handstands with the components in advance to ensure that no delays occur with the main build, he said. Risk assessments With every aspect of the job, detailed method and risk assessments are done, including environmental assessments. Once operational, Nojoli Wind Farms environmentally-friendly electricity supply will save the atmosphere from more than 251,000 tons of carbon dioxide each year, which would have come from coal-powered stations. The wind farm is being constructed by Enel Green Power, which has about 740 plants operating in 15 countries in Europe, the Americas and Africa. EGPs total installed capacity is 9,600MW from a range of sources including wind, solar, hydroelectric, geothermal and biomass. With initiatives ranging from water collection to supplying feed to hard-hit areas, South Africans have stepped forward to show tremendous support to farmers affected by the prolonged drought. Short-term insurer, Santam has donated R2 million to help boost the embattled agriculture sector and alleviate the financial hardships commercial and emerging farmers are facing. Santam makes R2 million donation to farmers and communities affected by drought. In an announcement at Agri South Africas 2016 Commodities Congress, Santam Head of Agriculture, Gerhard Diedericks said the donation would be made to the National Drought Disaster Relief Fund managed by Agri SA. The contribution will benefit not only members of South Africas four Agri industry bodies but will include emerging farmers not belonging to any organisation. Those that are most in need of assistance will be prioritised. The persistent drought continues to have a knock-on effect on the local economy and threatens the long-term food security of our country. Farmers and communities dependent on the agricultural sector for their livelihoods are bearing the brunt of this crisis. For Santam, lending support to both individual farmers and farming groups is simply the right thing to do, Diedericks said. Helping to ensure food security He added Santam would continue to assist the farming community in managing the risks endangering the sustainability of agricultural resources. As the oldest insurer in the sector, with over 85 years of extensive experience in dealing with the highs and lows of agriculture, we understand the role farmers play in ensuring the stability of food security. Santam will continue to work with industry partners, brokers and organisations within the agricultural sector to meet the challenges that lie ahead. Collectively we need to do much more to assist our struggling farming communities, and we urge our counterparts to show their support and contribute to this critical cause, Diedericks concluded. CEO of South African National Parks (SANParks) Fundisile Mketeni has been elected to serve a second term as a bureau member, representing African countries, of the Intergovernmental Platform for Biodiversity & Ecosystem Services (IPBES). CEO of SANParks Fundisile Mketeni In responding to his election, Mketeni said the involvement of Africa in this vital global network will assist our conservation scientists within the continent to interact with globally acclaimed scientists from other areas, while ensuring the full use of national, sub-regional and regional scientific knowledge and expertise in our respective protected areas. Collaboration is key He said through this platform, key collaborations will be established on biodiversity and ecosystems. This will ensure credibility, relevance and legitimacy through peer review of scientific work, while also avoiding duplication in various research programs embarked upon collaboration is the key to excellence in our work in this regard. According to Mketeni, there are over a thousand scientists from all over the world who are currently contributing to the work of IPBES on a voluntary basis. It is for this reason that our country and parts of the continent now struggling with the effects of drought will be able to learn from our peers elsewhere and also share knowledge on our management principles of our protected areas in general. The nomination was made at the IPBES session held from 22 to 28 February 2016 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Veteran hotelier Tony Romer-Lee has been hard at work revitalising the Spier hospitality offering and now adds two new clients to his PMR consultancy with US-based business partner Euan McGlashan. The Royal Portfolios newest project and first for Cape Town, is the Silo development at the V&A Waterfront of 28 deluxe rooms over six floors in the repurposed grain silo. Liz Bidens The Royal Portfolio properties remain the benchmark for all-inclusive luxury stays with the peerless Royal Malawane game reserve, Hermanus Birkenhead House and Franschhoeks La Residence, the best of the breed, so there is every expectation that The Silo will reach equally breathless heights. PMR is excited to announce a short-term consulting role with The Royal Portfolio, says Romer-Lee. The PMR team is already assisting The Royal Portfolio in the critical pre-opening phase, helping to set-up various strategic and operational areas to ensure a smooth and seamless launch. he says. In a media handout, managing director of The Royal Portfolio, Matt Biden comments: We are delighted to be working with PMR towards the opening of The Silo, which is a hugely exciting project for everyone at The Royal Portfolio. The PMR team has extensive experience operating at the highest level, both internationally and in Cape Towns CBD, which can only add value as we get closer to opening this iconic Cape Town hotel. We are honoured to be working with the Biden family and their team on such a unique, relevant, industry-leading project and look forward to helping them set a new benchmark in Cape Town, adds Romer-Lee. Keys to a special piece of South African history In a surprising move, The Rawdon Family have shifted allegiances from The Collection by Liz McGrath to PMR by handing over the keys to Matjiesfontein to Romer-Lee and McGlashan. I was very impressed with the gentle way in which The Collection was managing the upgrading of Matjiesfontein and its improved cuisine offering, so wait with excitement to see what PMR is planning. While Tom Rawdon on behalf of The Rawdon Family, the trustees of the Matjiesfontein Village, said in the same statement: Although sad to leave a successful relationship with The Collection by Liz McGrath, the exciting news is that we will be teaming up with PMR Hospitality to undertake overall management of the running of the hotel. Co-owner of PMR, Tony Romer-Lee is no stranger to Matjiesfontein having worked with The Collection when they became involved in 2013. Tony and his partners are passionate about The Lord Milner and we are very excited to welcome them to the Matjiesfontein team! We are pleased to be working with the Rawdons in preserving and enhancing this very special piece of South African history, which has become a destination in its own right, says Tony Romer-Lee. PMRs first priority is that of securing a highly skilled and motivated general manager and head chef to replace the current couple who are leaving the town to pursue other interests. Record low oil prices have prompted travel agents to call for the fuel surcharge levied on air passengers to be scrapped. The fuel surcharge is among the additional costs and taxes added to the base cost of an air ticket. The surcharge dates back to a period of volatility in the oil price about 10 years ago when the cost of Brent crude hit levels as high as $120 a barrel. StanisA?aw Tokarski via 123RF At that time, airlines approached the industry and the government and asked for an adjustment to ticket prices by accounting separately for the cost of fuel and levying a surcharge on it. However, the country's low-cost airlines Mango, FlySafair and kulula.com do not charge a fuel surcharge as they are relatively new and are not linked to legacy decisions, according to transport economist and aviation expert, Joachim Vermooten. The fuel surcharge is charged by South African Airways (SAA) and British Airways franchisee Comair in SA, as well as other international airlines. Fuel surcharge no longer makes sense SA is a long-haul destination, located far from key traveller source markets. International aircraft flying to the country consume more fuel and often do not stop to refuel on some long distance routes. The Association of Southern African Travel Agents (Asata), which represents 85% of travel agents in terms of market share, argues that it no longer makes sense to levy a separate fee for fuel when the oil price is trading at about $30 a barrel. Asata said that, on average, the fuel surcharge was R500 and could be significantly higher depending on whether the flight was international. "What we are seeing is abusive behaviour on the part of airlines to generate or drive additional revenue to their pockets under the banner of a fuel surcharge," Asata CEO Otto de Vries said. According to Asata, the Hong Kong Civil Aviation Department last week announced that airlines flying out of the city would no longer be allowed to charge a fuel surcharge because of lower fuel prices. SAA, which operates a Hong Kong flight, had scrapped the fuel surcharge on its Hong Kong flights. SAA spokesman Tlali Tlali said the airline was unable to respond to questions at the time of going to print. The case for personalised fares Comair, which also operates kulula.com, dismissed the travel agents' claims. Comair CEO, Erik Venter said while the fuel surcharge had indeed been created to allow airlines to adjust ticket prices at a time of volatile oil prices, an unintended consequence was that it allowed airlines to provide "personalised" fares to corporate clients, travel agents and tour operators. The fuel surcharge had become a mechanism for airlines to adjust ticket prices and had "very little relevance" to the fuel price, Venter said. "Today most airlines have thousands of fares in operation, and it has become completely impossible to adjust all of these fares individually." Venter said ticket prices had fallen 20% since last year. This was as a result of the lower oil price, the weak economy, and more seat capacity. Vermooten agreed that the fuel surcharge for passenger airlines had become a means to adjust ticket prices. Source: Business Day One of the most celebrated entrepreneurs of our generation, Elon Musk, is proudly one of South Africa's own. Born in Pretoria, Musk is a shining example of what South Africans are capable of on the world stage. In honor of his ingenuity and blatant honesty, as displayed in a Vanity Fair piece on his upcoming rocket launch, let's take a look at three of the top tech startups that can trace their roots to South Africa. Something as simple as streaming video online can be a challenge, depending on the speed of your connection. In more remote parts of the world, internet speeds barely surpass dial-up. For many home internet users, the more affordable plans offered by their ISP fail to provide enough juice to seamlessly stream Netflix or YouTube. A common problem that results from relentless buffering is audio and picture thats out of sync. Tuluntulu, founded by Pierre van der Hoven, is a South African company that provides technology for streaming quality online content over even the most challenging of connections. With a focus on African content and the second screen (social media feeds related to the content being viewed), the service is forging ahead into finding new ways to monetize content and make more shows available to their apps user base. A brand new startup has entered the e-commerce space, focused on allowing undiscovered artists to directly market themselves to the citizens of the internet without the usual costs of marketing and promotion. What TechSupremo has managed to do for tech writers, The Artery is looking to replicate in the African art community. Looking for work in South Africa? For jobseekers, JobCrawler is designed to provide an online portal into all of the job openings that have been posted online by firms in South Africas major hiring markets. Filter jobs by geographic area, profession or employer. The beauty of this system is that it takes existing online data and combines it into a single, easy to use interface for motivated future employers to find their next career move. The key to this sort of project is strong, localized online marketing for small business owners. If the site can continue to successfully generate traffic in focused areas, theyll be able to successfully market themselves to employers who will want the opportunity to have their job posting featured. After all, if you want the best employees, you need to get your job opening in front of as many qualified applicants as possible. Theres something about watching a hometown team of go-getters build something cool on a global scale that really inspires pride. Whether its bringing talented artists out onto the world stage, connecting job seekers with employers, or empowering more people to enjoy online video streaming in a mobile environment, South Africa is full of innovative startups poised to follow in Musks footsteps. New marketing metrics are needed for the age of informed and tech-savvy consumers, who have high expectations for personalised engagement from brands. The way that most brands measure their investment returns from marketing and advertising is still largely based on traditional media thinking, and it is falling out of step with the demands of a new era of digital media. Cindy Diamond, group sales director at Mediamark, says, Tried and tested measures of sales conversions and brand awareness are not always aligned with the new needs of a world. Through their use of social media and their interactions with digital giants such as Amazon and Uber, South African consumers have learnt that they have a voice and that they are entitled to more personalised brand experiences. Old measures of marketing success such as frequency, reach, and brand awareness dont tell us enough about how well were doing in building customer relationships. Driven by emotions Todays consumer cares as much about the customer experience as he or she cares about brand, price and quality. Customer experience encompasses not only the value and worth of the product or service, but also how the consumer feels overall about his or her interactions with the brand. Were looking at something quite subjective here - how we appeal to the consumers emotions. The question for every marketer today is how do we address the consumers needs, wants, and feelings so that we can drive profitable engagement with the brand. When looking at advertising, marketers today have the benefit of a wealth of demographic and behavioural data from digital channels to help them create emotionally engaging experiences. The data can tell marketers who consumers are, what theyre doing and what they are looking for. Role of creativity It is then up to the creative team to use this data to create messages and campaigns that will resonate with consumers. Armed with the right information, marketers now also have the ability to engage with customers with refined and more personalised messaging across targeted channels. The data from digital channels, such as social media, mobile and display, is especially powerful when it is combined with the reach of conventional mass media. Many people still have a close relationship with regional radio, for example, and it remains a deeply engaging channel. By supporting radio with digital channels, brands can extend the consumer experience, build further engagement and get more insight into the success of their customer engagement strategies. Real-world activations are another way to build engagement. Measuring engagement Engagement is hard to measure but some ways that companies could benchmark it, include the following. Use of market research tools such as Net Promoter Scores (NPS) Tracking the frequency and session length of consumers interactions with the brand using its apps and website Sentiment, activity and advocacy on social media Customer churn and retention Trends in the customers use of the companys products and services As marketers, we need to think about customers rather than channels as we build our campaigns. The question is not how just to get the best reach and frequency, but how to use a combination of channels to engage with consumers effectively and creating memorable experiences. This is where marketers will find their returns, concludes Diamond. The 2016 US Woordfees Film Festival, which runs from 4 to 13 March in the Pulp Cinema in the Neelsie Centre at 7 De Beer Street, Stellenbosch, will feature award-winning international and local features, short films and documentaries as part of its extended selection. Some of the highlights include award winners at the recent Durban International Film Festival. The Dream of Shahrazad, selected as best South African documentary, interweaves the mythological stories of the 1001 Nights with the stories of various artists in Egypt and Turkey against the backdrop of the political unrest in those countries. Filmmaker Francois Verster, will be present at the screening on 6 March to discuss his film. The Shore Break focusses on the conflict between conservation and development in the Amadiba area of the Wild Coast. The excellent cinematography, sand animations and soundtrack contribute to an extraordinary sensory experience. The film won the Amnesty International Human Rights Award in Durban. It was also selected as best current documentary at the kykNET Silwerskermfees in 2015. A discussion with the producers, Odette and Ryley Geldenhuys, will take place after the screening on 10 March. Also present at the festival this year is Belgian director Geoffrey Enthoven, who will be at the screening of his film, Happy Together, on 7 March to answer questions from the public. His award-winning comedy Come As You Are (Hasta la Vista) is also on the festival programme. There are also free screenings of short films, including those of the 2015 kykNET Silwerskermfees. . Tickets available at Computicket. The complete programme can be viewed here TOKYO: Nissan shares soared on Monday morning, 29 February, as investors cheered the carmaker's plans for a share buyback, after a bloodbath on equity markets at the start of the year hammered the stock. 2016 Nissan Rogue Japan's number two automaker said after the Tokyo market closed on Friday that it would purchase up to 400 billion yen ($3.5bn) worth of its own shares by the end of the year. In response, the Tokyo-listed shares surged as much as 12% in opening trade - the most in seven years, according to Bloomberg News. They finished the morning up 7.61% at 1,045.5 yen. The buyback, announced after a board meeting, will start on Monday and run until December 22, Nissan said. Share buybacks tend to lift the value of existing stock. Separately, Renault said that it would sell its shares in order to maintain its current 43.4% stake in Nissan, which in turn owns 15% of the French automaker. The pair have had a business tie-up since the late nineties and Nissan said its buyback will not lead to any "material change" in their alliance. Combined, they are the world's fourth-biggest carmaker with 8.53 million unit sales in 2015. Renault shares closed more than 5% higher on the Paris exchange Friday, which was open at the time of the announcement. Renault-Nissan alliance chief executive Carlos Ghosn said the decision to return cash to shareholders was prompted by the Japanese automaker's strong cash flow position. "Returns to shareholders is one of Nissan's key objectives," he said in a statement. The announcement comes after Nissan shares took a beating at the start of the year as concerns about the global economy hammered equities. On Friday, the stock was down about 24% since January. But the firm's earnings have been upbeat. Nissan's net profit for April-December jumped nearly 34% from a year earlier to 452.8 billion yen, despite weakness in Japan and emerging markets. Its moves to boost factory output in emerging markets - top vehicle market China, Mexico, Brazil and Thailand - have now put the company in a position to free up cash for buying back shares, analysts said. However, Masayuki Kubota, chief strategist at Rakuten Securities in Tokyo, warned "many uncertainties" remain for emerging markets. "Nissan is quite aggressive to make investments in emerging countries, but these days the economic situation is unstable," Kubota told AFP. The outlook for "China is not good, and the influence of China's economy on some Southeast Asian countries is quite big", he added. "In this situation, for Nissan - which has a strong balance sheet - a share buyback is a good choice." Source: AFP Digital advice from a selection of the 2016 Bookmark Awards' marketers' jury panel: Prepare for an evolution in digital thinking and greater brand equity. But first, stop treating digital as a department. An incredible amount of effort was put into finding the most appropriate and experienced judges for the various Bookmarks categories. With Felix Kessel, CEO of OwenKessel Leo Burnett, judging the marketing panel, we caught up with three of its members to find out what we can expect from this years results Kessel revealed last week that his role as the marketing panel chair is to assist with facilitating dialogue and debate among the judges around the work presented, while also mediating the panel. Masango, Van Rookhuyzen and Lalloo. Nkanyezi Masango, creative director at Y&R Cape Town; Eric van Rookhuyzen, head of digital at MEC Nota Bene; and Nalisha Lalloo, digital marketing manager of Pernot Ricard are just three of that 11-strong marketing jury panel. Here, they exclusively share their insights into judging this category of digital work 1. What are you most looking forward to from this years IAB Digital Summit & Bookmark Awards? Masango: Inspiration and having my mind blown. Van Rookhuyzen: I think the speakers attending are some really exciting faces, with a strong bias towards technology. As for the Bookmark Awards, as a first-time judge it is firstly an honour, but also exciting to see all the great work we as an industry produce and how the evolution of digital thinking progresses. Lalloo: I cant wait to get a birds eye view of the clever thinking and innovative marketing techniques the past year has produced in SAs digital landscape. 2. Share some pointers on your personal judging process and what youre looking for from entrants in your category. Masango: I was looking for ideas that live at the intersection of originality and relevance. Then I judged the craft how the execution accentuates the idea. Van Rookhuyzen: I targeted the combination of innovation and results. Not one or the other, but rather at the entire integrated campaign that excites and ignites ROI. Lalloo: I kept an eye out for entrants that were bold enough to push the boundaries in order to take the industry forward in terms of innovation, as well as those whose boldness was well thought-out enough to attain valuable results for the brands. 3. Elaborate on the overall standard of digital work in SA. Where do we shine and whats still lacking? Masango: I think we have incredible talent where the technology is concerned. Now we need to be better at connecting the technology to the human experience. This will happen as soon we stop treating digital as a department and rather as an integrated part of a creative studio. Van Rookhuyzen: I think the standard grows from strength to strength every year and the bar is high. There certainly is great innovative thinking out there, but we are also in a position where we work within the limitations of our partners, their platforms, and this technology locally. I think as an industry in SA, we still have a lot of room to grow in technology, as not only a way of implementing or running media, but also providing business solutions for our clients that offer long-term value. Another key focus would be data: not necessarily collecting, but rather segmenting, analysing and interpretation of data that is generated in real time. Where do we shine digitally in SA? Social media is certainly a strong point for us, to engage with and moderate communities that has such diversity, is really remarkable and we do it incredibly well. Lalloo: SAs digital landscape is exciting right now. We have a wealth of very smart digital thinkers and an equally large number of creative masterminds. I feel that one of the problems weve had is in trying to get those two to collide and take the industry beyond just churning out digital media plans aimed at cost-effective buying, to start to create true digital marketing strategies that focus on building digital brand equity and testing new measures of success as the industry evolves. Exciting times! If youre eager to delve in deeper into digital, click through to this podcast interview with Josephine Buys, CEO of IAB South Africa, to find out more about the highly anticipated IAB Digital Summit & Bookmark Awards 2016, taking place at Turbine Hall in Johannesburg on 3 March 2016. Click here for the full list of Bookmarks 2016 judges and here for the full list of finalists and watch for our in-depth coverage. Cinemark has announced that after a decade of sponsoring the local leg of the Young Lions competition, it has cancelled its sponsorship of the 2016 event. The company has continuously sponsored a prize for the winning pair from South Africa, allowing them to compete internationally at the Cannes Lions Festival. The prize has included Young Lions delegate passes for both winners for the seven days at the Cannes Lions Festival, return flights and accommodation for the pair and often, an allowance. Passionate about development within the brand communications industry, the company also allowed young creatives to display their talent and have their award-winning entry screened across Ster-Kinekor cinemas Over the years it has become challenging for Cinemark to fund the prize. In the other 80 regions that run the Young Lions competition, the ad agencies or the winners themselves are expected to fit the bill for their trip to Cannes, while each year in South Africa, Cinemark has taken on this expense. Last year, a statement was made to the industry that it might be the last year that Cinemark was able to sponsor the prize, explains Yvonne Diogo, marketing manager & account executive: media sales for Cinemark. Although we were keen to go ahead, it is with a heavy heart that I now must confirm that amidst the sharp depreciation of the Rand, it is no longer viable for Cinemark to fund the Young Lions prize to Cannes Lions 2016. It would simply be unreasonable to continue to execute the competition in its current format, without follow through on the prize that the competitors have become expectant of. The Cinemark team has not made the decision lightly or easily and wish to continue to execute the competition and allow young South Africans an opportunity to attend the international festival in the future. The cinema advertising business is thriving and we always wish to broaden this success by uplifting young talent. However, with little improvement in the Rand at present, the international expense has made Young Lions 2016 unviable. We will continue to seek out opportunities to secure sponsorship from local business and agencies in order to fund the prize or alter the competition to include a prize that would still be compelling for future competitors, concludes Diogo. Building a company is simply a matter of offering a solution to the needs of other people and collecting money in return for providing that solution. Building a brand is more complex. The brand describes the story behind how your company came into being. What do you believe? Whats important to you? Hopefully these are the same things that matter to your future customers. A well-communicated brand story can connect you with your customers and inspire brand loyalty. Is a brand story invented? If you want your customers to trust you, dont build a brand story based on lies. Instead, look into yourself and your company. Think about how your company grew into what it is today, and how you hope it will continue building upon that foundation. Your companys story should be inspired, not invented. Drawing inspiration for your brand Think about your customers and how they use your product or service. How does it impact their daily lives? Why did you build something to solve that problem? While money is almost always a motivation for building a company, theres something more than profits that got you out of bed in the morning when things were challenging. Channel those passions and values that helped you power through the rough patches. Thats your brand storys inspiration. Grow your brand through storytelling Dont take my word for it! Just look at what Damien Dally, an executive with Jeep U.K., had to say about the value of storytelling in the automotive industry: Storytelling in the automotive industry has been key in marketing campaigns for some time, especially since the advent of interactive/social media. This can be something metaphoric, yet simple, like a journey, to something more in-depth, with use of roles and a plot for the more adventurous. Portraying your brand as the protagonist in either case is essential. Your brand needs a story to connect with new customers and build deeper bonds with existing ones. Dally makes a fantastic point: positioning your brand as a protagonist, fighting a negative aspect of an existing market, is a great way to step out from behind a crowded market. Understanding what resonates with your customers Companies that fail to connect with their customers miss out on potential business. Bookcab is a brand in India that connects online users with vehicle rentals in the major cities throughout India. They started out in 2011 with a mission to make car rental in their developing country more transparent and affordable. While their About Us page is well written, they would benefit from a story that positions them as a protagonist saving Indians on the go from overpriced car rentals. For example, their story could be about how their founders came together in a town for an important business meeting. As their flights landed, they realized that finding a vehicle to rent for the weekend would be more expensive and more challenging than they had originally envisioned. Business travellers in India would be able to identify with the frustrations and more easily remember their brand as the result of a stronger brand story. The digital revolution has transformed the business landscape, creating huge opportunities for growth, but also leaving many casualties along the way. It's an era that forbids complacency in business and only allows rapid innovation to get the most you can out of technology. Those who have refused to adapt to the digital era are losing their positions in the market fast. A classic example is the traditional taxi operators who have lost a market they unilaterally controlled for decades purely because they failed to innovate. Uber now controls the taxi business across the globe by simply using a mobile application that connects travellers to taxi drivers in a very convenient way. With Uber, passengers do not need to wave for a taxi to stop or negotiate for fares with a cab driver. The taxi arrives at the touch of a button and the fare is calculated automatically by the application to ensure both the passenger and the driver get the best bargain. However, the traditional taxi operators all over the world are against the new system and are fighting Uber, mainly by physically assaulting the taxi drivers who operate under its platform. But are the laggards in a position to win the fight against the digital revolution? Going by the ICT facts and figures, which were published by the International Telecommunication Union in May 2015, information and communication technologies have grown in an unprecedented way over the past 15 years. In 2015, there were more than seven billion mobile subscriptions worldwide, up from 738 million in 2000. Globally, 3.2 billion people are using the Internet, of which two billion live in developing countries. People's perception are that digital technologies have certainly made them better off, The World Bank stated in the World Development Report 2016 on Digital Dividends. In the 12 countries surveyed in Africa by the World Bank, 73 percent of people said mobile phones help save on travel time and costs, while more than 60 percent believe that having a mobile phone makes them feel more safe and secure. Digital technologies have spread rapidly in much of the world. In many instances, digital technologies have boosted growth, expanded opportunities and improved service delivery, The World Bank said. Leveraging technology has proved to be a powerful strategy to remain at the top and competitive in business. For instance, Kenya's leading mobile phone operator Safaricom, deployed the M-Pesa mobile money platform in 2007 and the product has gained global popularity since, while helping the company to seize a huge market share. Netflix, which started as DVD-by-mail service in United States in 1998, has also seen tremendous growth since the launch of its Internet TV service in 2007. Netflix services went live into more than 130 new countries around the world in January 2016. Netflix is expected to offer stiff competition to the traditional pay television providers, mainly because its Internet TV subscription is cheaper and available on virtually any device that has an Internet connection. What is more astounding is that even the agriculture and insurance industry are finding it difficult to do business without taking into account the technology aspect. Most greenhouses in many parts of the world are now controlled with mobile phones to ensure the irrigation systems are functioning properly, while insurers have started using online mobile underwriting platforms for policy quotations and renewals. Mobile and web-based customer interactions increase the potential for insurance companies to use data analytics to customise and price products, Ernest & Young said in the Insurance Opportunities in sub-Saharan Africa 2016 report. World Bank says technology can be transformational, which has already been proven owing to the rise of fast moving tech companies. This should worry the laggards because the economics of the digital technologies favor natural monopolies. The personal welfare gain from having access to digital technology is clearly great. Those who have the skills to leverage technology will have an advantage, said Jim Yong Kim, the President of the World Bank Group. Register your business in the Biz4Afrika platform for more useful tips that will enhance your competitiveness and performance in business. At Ericsson's Africa Night, a networking and conversation platform for key stakeholders on matters related to the digitisation of Africa, a panel discussed the impact of smart cities on a connected Africa and agreed it needed active collaboration between various stakeholders. Fredrik Jejdling, head of Ericssons region sub-Saharan Africa, said, Industries and society are transforming as a result of ICT. The establishment of smart cities that are equipped to manage some of the most important needs in evolving cities, such as safety, transportation and utilities, requires collaboration. At Africa Night, the group reaffirms its commitment by contributing to dialogue on how to make smart cities a reality in Africa, supported by solutions relevant for this continent. Facilitated by Kenyan journalist Larry Madowo, the panel included Jean-Philbert Nsengimana, Rwandan Minister for ICT and Youth, Adebayo Shittu, Nigerian Minister of Telecommunications and Technology, Prof Hlengiwe Mkhize, South African Deputy Minister of Telecommunications and Postal Services, Dr Hamadoun Toure, executive director of the SMART Africa Program, Christian de Faria, CEO and MD for Airtel Africa and Cynthia Gordon, executive VP and CEO for Africa Division at Millicom International Cellular. Besides providing great insights, the panel reflected on the opportunities currently being explored to build connected cities on the continent particularly in Nigeria, Rwanda and South Africa. Nsengimana extolled the role of partnerships in delivering smart cities in Africa. Rwanda is leading in four areas, in collaboration with Ericsson, payments, digitising transportation, safety and utilities. There is no way a government alone can drive massive projects at the rate at which we are doing it without strong partnerships. Speaking on the progress of the Smart Rwanda project in his country, the minister projected that 95% of all transactions between the government and citizens by the end of 2017 will be online, round the clock. From the Nigerian perspective, Shittu, shared the success of two initiatives that were having a positive impact on connecting Nigerians and bringing financial inclusion and accountability; the Treasury Single Account (TSA) and preloaded money cards that are now available for example to farmers. Speaking on the benefits of an increasingly connected South Africa, Mkhize said, Our e-government services has great impact in rural areas that were previously excluded, but now young people are in a position to access opportunities like any other person, irrespective of where they are located. Dr Toure called for more investment in infrastructure on the continent. There is an investment need in infrastructure in Africa over next 10 years of over $300bn, if the continent is to reach its full potential. The investment will not be charity it is business. Today, the continent has the highest return on investment. Governments are putting the right regulatory environments in place with regard to spectrum, licenses and national broadband plans and therefore with the public partnership model that we are advocating, there is money to be made. The UN estimates that by 2050 almost 70% of the worlds population will be city dwellers. Though Africa remains mostly rural, with only 40% in urban areas as at 2014, this is expected to change in coming decades as Africa, like Asia, is expected to urbanise faster than other regions in the world. The growth of cities raises a range of social, economic and environmental challenges, putting pressure on infrastructure, natural systems and social structures. However, as the challenges of urbanisation intersect with ICT-driven opportunities, solutions emerge with the potential to improve the lives of billions. Just a few of Dr. Kizza Besigye's many arrests by Ugandan police Two candidates claimed victory in Ugandas presidential election after February 18th polls. Incumbent President Yoweri Museveni, who has already entered his 31st year in power, and Dr. Kizza Besigye, a medical doctor by training, who has been under arrest or house arrest since election day. In a recent interview, Dr. Besigye said that he had been in police custody 45 times since the 2011 election, and the number climbs daily. The Ugandan Constitution allows Dr. Besigye 10 days after the election to file a petition disputing the results announced by an Election Commission handpicked by incumbent President Yoweri Museveni. On Saturday his lawyer reported that a team, including another presidential candidate, two of his partys officials and Kampalas Lord Mayor-elect, met roadblocks that kept them from meeting with him to prepare the petition due on Tuesday, 03.01.2016. Besigye appears to be leading a nascent nonviolent resistance movement. In a recent press conference he stated that Ugandan citizens are not armed. "We have a besieged regime. The regime is besieged and it's all over with guns and armored vehicles and all kinds of things, as if there is a war situation in the country. They are the only ones with arms. Citizens of Uganda are not armed. We are not even like the Americans, where everybody has guns in their homes. Nobody here has a gun except for the military and the police. So why they should be so scared of their citizens, unarmed citizens, tells the story that this is not a regime with people's will." In the same press conference, he explained the urgency of his defiance campaign. "We cannot continue to live in our country where our resources are stolen with impunity, while our people die for lack of medicine, lack of clean water, and are dying on the terrible roads that are all over the country. This we must stop. We are not going to relent. We are not turning back." Adopting the rhetoric of the American Civil Rights movement, he said that Ugandans shall overcome. "We have rejected the outcome of this election. We shall not cooperate with the military regime. The regime cannot survive without our cooperation. Be strong. We, by the grace of God, shall overcome." Czech President Zeman has publicly mocked the two Pakistani refugees who tried to hang themselves in Athens 29. 2. 2016 cas cteni 2 minuty "If these two Pakistani refugees tried to hang themselves, maybe it was a pretend suicide, just for show. You know, if you really mean to hang yourself, you will not survive," laughed the Czech President Milos Zeman when he was asked about the two Pakistani refugees who tried to hang themselves in Athens. He did so during his interview with a controversial Czech website Parlamentni listy, which disseminates alarmist anti-refugee nonsense and islamophobic propaganda in the Czech Republic. Milos Zeman continued: "In any case, these two men have just demonstrated that they were expecting a better living standard for themselves than what they had in Pakistan and their expectations have not been fulfilled yet. They were given food and drink, they have been given accommodation in heated tents. If they wanted more, I do not understand why they did not stay in their native country since there is no fighting there. "For good reasons, because they have broken the Dublin Regulation, I call these people illegal immigrants. I am really surprised that many of them are coming from countries where there is no fighting. Yet they do keep coming in large numbers and it is a question whether even those people who come from those countries where there is a war on are really escaping from war or are simply trying to get into such countries where they could comfortably live on social welfare. This applies to all immigrants." Milos Zeman also attacked Greece in the interview: "The Greek government has a special liking for withdrawing its ambassadors. It first recalled its ambassador from the Czech Republic and now it has recalled its ambassador from Austria. There are still about 25 more countries for them to withdraw their ambassadors from and it is obvious that their ambassadors will be evidently travelling a lot in the near future. No EU country is willing to solve Greek problems. We cannot possibly move the refugees who are in Greece into other countries for the simple reason that they do not want to go to those other countries. How many people have applied for asylum in Macedonia? I think no one." Source in Czech HERE 0 (BMCR) publishes timely reviews of current scholarly work in the field of classical studies (including archaeology). The authoritative archive can be found atThis site was established to allow responses to reviews through the comments feature; all reviews from August 2008 have been posted and comments were allowed from 2008 until 2018. It looks like you have reached this page in error ... The content you are looking for has either moved, or if you typed in the address there might have been a mistake. If you believe there has been a technical error please let us know. Most Popular Destinations Indian Defence Ministry has issued an orderfor the purchase of CH-47 Chinook and AH-64 Apache helicopters. PANAJI (PTI): In a bid to strengthen country's defence forces, the Indian Defence Ministry has issued an order worth Rs 22,000 crores for purchase of helicopters, CH-47 Chinook and AH-64 Apache, which will be inducted in the forces soon. "The ministry has already issued an order for purchase of 15 Chinook Helicopters and 21 Apache helicopters which will soon be inducted in the forces," Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar told a select group of reporters here today on Saturday. The minister said the order totalling Rs 22,000 crores has been placed for the purchase of these choppers, which will strengthen the capabilities of country's defence forces. To a query regarding the upcoming Union Budget, Parrikar said the Centre has decided to allocate adequate funds for the defence sector. "There are two elements for the budget - one is expenditure and another salaries. And on both fronts, the government has decided to give enough (funds)," he said. Parrikar said the ministry has no constraint with regard to defence capital. "We are fulfilling the orders which were given 10 to 5 years back. Finances for the same is already reserved," he said. Parrikar noted with pride that in his 16 months tenure, not a single question has been raised on the defence purchase front. "...This itself indicates that I don't fall for the pressures," he said. Parrikar also said that with the Defence ministry giving the nod to export 'BRAHMOS' and 'Akash' missiles, Indian forces will get a boost. Claiming that neighbour Pakistan is wary of India's defence powers, Parrikar said during a recent exhibition that Pakistan withdrew display of its JF 17 Fighter jets when India's 'Tejas' (Light Combat Aircraft) was showcased. Indian Air Force's indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft 'Tejas' NEW DELHI (PTI): Indian Air Force will induct three to four indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft 'Tejas' this year and a total of eight squadrons in eight years, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has said. He told the Lok Sabha on Friday that a Letter of Intent for procuring 120 Tejas was issued and the first aircraft was inducted by the IAF in 2015 and three to four would be inducted this year. "Letter of Intent has been issued for 120 LCA. The first aircraft was given during 2015. The next three to four, to form the squadron, will be delivered during current year. "We are also in the process of approving the second line of manufacturing to the HAL so that they can produce 16 aircraft per year. In the next eight years, you will have about eight squadrons of LCA," he said during Question Hour. Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA) is the nodal organisation for the development of 'Tejas'. Parrikar said India has been importing 15 per cent of the global arms imports which has now come down to 14 per cent. India's arms import bill has also come down from around Rs 35,000 crore to Rs 24,900 crore now, he said. The Defence Minister said Indian defence industries, ordnance factories and shipyards have been functioning in full capacity and the orders received by them have increased substantially over the years. They have orders to the tune of Rs 1,60,000 crore and they would not be able to complete all orders even in the next ten years, he said, adding that these orders were indigenous, mostly from the government, and just two per cent orders from abroad. Replying to another question, Parrikar refuted a suggestion that India's budget allocation for defence sector was low in comparison to countries like the US, China and Pakistan, saying the pensions of defence personnel was not part of the defence budget. He said modernisation of the armed forces was a continuous process based on threat perception, operational challenges and technological changes to keep the armed forces in a state of readiness to meet the entire spectrum of security challenges. "Government attaches the highest priority to ensuring that the armed forces are sufficiently equipped to meet any operational requirement. This is achieved through induction of new equipment and technological upgradation of capabilities," he said. PANAJI (PTI): Pakistan and China do not feature in the list of 117 countries invited to participate in the Defence Expo which would be held in Goa next month, Indian Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar has said. "We have not invited Pakistan and China to exhibit their technology at the event. The delegation from China would be arriving, but they cannot be called participants of the Defence Expo," Parrikar said speaking to reporters here on Saturday. "Pakistan is neither participating nor is their delegation allowed. Even if they intend to come and witness the expo, that too is not permitted," he added. Of the 117 countries invited to exhibit their wares at the exhibition, 44 had confirmed the presence, he said. As many as 881 companies had confirmed their participation, Parrikar said. The event is slated to take place at Betul in south Goa from March 28 to 31. Goa is hosting the Defence Expo for the first time. Aero Show, to take place next year, would be held at Yelahanka near Bangalore, he said, ruling out Goa as a venue. "To host the Aero Show you need an airport and Goa does not have that facility. We can't have it till the new airport is in place," said the former Goa Chief Minister. The Defence Expo is facing opposition from a section of locals and some politicians who allege that land would be acquired permanently on the pretext of Expo. But the state government has said that structures put up for the exhibition would be temporary. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. LANDMARK, Man. About a dozen farmers spent the weekend attempting to block access to a jobsite southeast of Winnipeg where work is underway on Manitoba Hydros Bipole III power transmission line. The protest near the community of Landmark began early Saturday morning and continued Sunday, with the RCMP keeping watch on what it says was a peaceful demonstration. Tim Wiens, who owns land in the area, says the farmers took action after spotting what he calls a dirty auger being moved from one site to another as workers prepare foundations for transmission line towers. Wiens says uncleaned augers can contaminate farmland with seeds and diseases, including some that can affect animals. Hydro says in a statement that its contractors remain at the site. The Crown utility also says the augers are scraped and disinfected before theyre moved and that at this time of year, topsoil which could harbour contaminants is frozen and does not adhere to the equipment. Bipole III is a $4 billion project aimed at bringing power from northern generating stations to homes and businesses in the south. Hydro is aiming to get the line up and running by 2018. It originally planned to run a shorter, direct line down the east side of Lake Winnipeg. But due in part to fears that First Nations in the area would fight the project in court, the NDP government ordered Hydro to reroute the line far to the west almost to the Saskatchewan boundary where it loops southward and back east. (CTV Winnipeg, The Canadian Press) Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/02/2016 (2427 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. The Dioceses of Brandon will consecrate its seventh bishop in 92 years on Tuesday. Rev. Canon William Cliff is replacing Rt. Rev. James Njegovan, who retired on July 31 after 13 years as bishop. This is a big deal. This is about as big a deal as it gets for me personally, Cliff said. He was elected from a pool of six candidates during a synod on Oct. 31. Tom Bateman/The Brandon Sun Rev. Canon William Cliff will be consecrated as the bishop of the Diocese of Brandon on Tuesday. Cliff was previously the rector of St. John the Evangelist Chapel at Huron University College in London, Ont. The 49-year-old comes to the Wheat City from Huron University College at Western University in London, Ont., where he served as the parish priest and rector of St. Johns Chapel for 13 years. The bishop-elect assumes a diocese bruised by allegations that the outgoing bishops son, Noah James Bernard Njegovan, stole tens of thousands of dollars of church money while he was executive archdeacon of the Brandon diocese. Last August, the junior Njegovan pleaded not guilty and to charges of fraud over $5,000 and theft over $5,000 and faces a Court of Queens Bench trial by judge alone. The insurer for the Anglican Church of Canada, The Diocese of Brandon is also suing Njegovan to recover the money. The allegations against the younger Njegovan, who is not currently an active priest, havent been proven in court, and hes presumed innocent. His next court dates are in the spring. I think people are looking for a way forward that doesnt blame the past and has some genuine joy in what we share together in Jesus. Thats where Im putting my focus. The matters before the courts will be resolved by the courts and we always seek reconciliation and forgiveness, Cliff said on the matter. The older Njegovan, who told Anglican Journal his retirement wasnt connected to his sons legal matters, has been very helpful in the transition, Cliff said. (He) has been wonderful in giving me counsel and encouragement and making sure that I dont step on landmines if there are landmines to be stepped on, Cliff said. Cliff called his new diocese, which includes 50 congregations spanning the western portion of Manitoba from the Northwest Territories to the American border an impossibly large area. Im one guy and Im going to do my absolute best. People here need to teach me how to be their bishop. Thats the thing Ive said repeatedly I need to learn and Im willing to learn. I like to preach, I like to be out with people, I love the life of the church, so Im excited about spending time with people, Cliff said. I genuinely am excited by anything God has to send a year ago Id never have believed Id be sitting here now so Im astonished by the people of Brandons confidence in me and Im grateful for it and Im excited by it, actually. Genuinely excited. The native of Wyoming, Ont., recognizes several parallels between Brandon and Ontario. I grew up near Sarnia, which is a town of about 25,000 so very similar in outlook and understanding. I grew up in a rural area, so Im used to that, he said. Cliff said The Diocese of Huron has one of the largest First Nations congregations in Canada, and hes looking to grow similar relationships with Manitobas indigenous people. My important thing is to listen to the stories of the people here. They were here long before me and they will be here long after me, so I think a level of humility in the face of the knowledge that is out there that I do not have, is a logical response, he said. Hes also looking to carry over his extensive work with younger Anglicans worshippers the average age of his old parish was between 18 and 22. Cliff is acclaimed for Bull with Bill a lecture series addressing issues surrounding modern Christianity. He said hes looking into ways to engage Brandon University and Assiniboine Community College students. I think thats a really important time for people to struggle with what they know, what theyre learning and how they find their way in the world, he said. Cliff, who holds an undergraduate degree in music, is one of the Three Cantors: a trio of Anglican priests who perform everything from Broadway tunes to Gregorian chants in hundreds of concerts across the country, raising money for charity. Cliff said he doesnt know how the diocese will look a year from now: his main goal is to be taught how to be an effective bishop. My father was a marine engineer on an old steam ship. He could tell you what the RPMs were by feeling the deck plates under his feet and looking at his watch. He taught me that sometimes listening to the machine will tell you more than talking to it or talking at it or tinkering with it. Cliff will be consecrated by the Most Rev. Gregory Kerr-Wilson, Archbishop of Calgary and Metropolitan of Ruperts Land at 4 p.m. on Tuesday at St. Matthews Cathedral in Brandon. tbateman@brandonsun.com, with files from Ian Hitchen Twitter: @tombatemann Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. EDMONTON Albertas economic downturn is putting the squeeze on charities as growing numbers of unemployed seek help and others cut back on discretionary spending. Demand is up at food banks in Calgary, Edmonton and Fort McMurray, swollen by people who have recently lost their jobs in the oilpatch or by others who were laid off last year and have burned through their savings and credit. Capt. Pam Goodyear of the Salvation Army says requests for help are up by as much as 30 per cent in the province from last year. Smaller communities are being hard hit. It is people who have lost their jobs and never had to ask for help before, Goodyear said Monday. Some are looking for emergency food, help with utilities, help with rent. Last month, Albertas seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was 7.4 per cent up from 4.6 for the same time in 2015. Some economists believe the jobless rate could grow higher this year. The Calgary Food Bank said it distributed food last month for 13,000 people a jump of 24 per cent from the previous year. Shawna Ogston, a food bank spokeswoman, said the number of new clients was up by 43 per cent. Its your neighbour, it is your friend, it is your family, she said. You have to wonder what 2016 is going to bring. The oil slump is also affecting a major source of funding for the STARS air ambulance service in Alberta. For the first time in 23 years, the non-profit agency is predicting it will not sell all the tickets for its annual lottery that includes homes, cars and cash. STARS, which is partly funded by the province, depends on lottery proceeds for about one-third of its budget. Last year, the agency netted $11 million from ticket sales. It is the economy and the lack of discretionary cash, said STARS president Andrea Robertson. We are going to have to look at new ways of raising money. Some charities are reporting that cash donations from corporations and the public have been up, especially over the holiday season. The hope is that the donations will keep coming and will be enough to cover demand if the economy doesnt improve this year. Without being pessimistic we are definitely preparing for the worst, Ogston said. Goodyear said the already frugal Salvation Army is planning to tighten its belt in Alberta for the coming fiscal year, which begins in April. The charity is setting the same fundraising goal as 2015 and is already looking at how to spend what it raises to benefit more people. People who need help may get a little less, she said. We are nervous about what is coming. Note to readers: This is a corrected story. A previous version referred to the STARS president as Andrea Robinson. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. TORONTO A mortgage broker allegedly used fraudulent documents to help arrange numerous loans, then pocketed anywhere from 10 to 50 per cent of the borrowed amounts. Another broker was accused of lying to a pair of investors, telling them the $1.5 million private mortgage they were funding was the first loan on the property, when in fact it was the second. The broker wrote off the error as virtually academic in a subsequent email, according to documents filed with the Financial Services Commission of Ontario, known as the FSCO. A house for sale at $3,395,000 in Westmount on December 11, 2015 in Montreal. The mortgage broker industry has faced increased scrutiny recently, after lender Home Capital announced last year it had severed ties with 45 brokers over allegations they had falsified income information. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Ryan Remiorz And on three separate occasions, the provincial regulator discovered individuals who claimed to be brokers and were providing mortgage broker services without a licence. These are just some of the complaints about Ontario mortgage brokers filed with the commission last year and obtained by The Canadian Press through a Freedom of Information request. The complaints were made by members of the public to the FSCO, the agency tasked with regulating mortgage brokers in the province, between Jan. 1 and July 3 of 2015, when the housing market in Toronto, in particular, soared to historic heights. They represent only a portion of the total 91 complaints received by the regulator in fiscal 2014-2015. The mortgage broker industry has been facing increased scrutiny since lender Home Capital announced last year it had severed ties with 45 brokers over allegations they had falsified income information. The total value of outstanding loans generated by the brokers in question was $1.72 billion as of Sept. 30. Industry insiders say tightened lending rules and the rise of self-employment have made it tougher for some borrowers to qualify for a mortgage. There used to be a little more flexibility, but banks are really rigid now, says Blair Anderson, a Hamilton-based broker and the author of Ask Your Mortgage Broker. Meanwhile, competition among brokers has become stiffer as their ranks have expanded. Combined, these factors can make it tempting for brokers, who are paid via commission, to falsify information or use high-pressure sales tactics in order to make sure the deal goes through, observers say. You get big paydays when you close the deal, says Cam McCaw, a professor and fraud specialist at Torontos Seneca College. However, Anderson says stiffer competition or tougher economic conditions are no excuse for bending the rules in order to get the deal done. Theres always enough business out there, you just have to work a little harder to drum it up, he says. Paul Taylor, president and chief executive of Mortgage Professionals Canada, says brokers who are engaging in unscrupulous practices constitute a small proportion of the 25,000 licensed mortgage brokers operating across the country. In Ontario alone there were more than 2,400 licensed mortgage brokers in fiscal 2013-2014, according to FSCOs annual report. I think youre talking about a very small minority of individuals, Taylor said. The majority of mortgage brokers understand their role as trusted advisers very well. In British Columbia, the agency tasked with regulating the mortgage industry has proposed a set of amendments that would require brokers to disclose their commissions. In an open letter to the provinces brokers, the Financial Institutions Commission says it has observed the incentives that some lenders offer to get a mortgage brokers business. The agency says its concerned about the influence that can have on the advice given to clients. When your compensation remains hidden from the consumer, it increases the risk that the advice that youre providing to the consumer is not in the consumers best interest but rather in your own interest, Chris Carter, deputy registrar of mortgage brokers, said in an interview. The agency also says its learned that some brokers have been using prohibited, coercive sales practices, such as charging cancellation fees to compel borrowers to follow through. The B.C. agency received a total of 116 mortgage broker complaints last year. Of those, five led to formal enforcement action, 16 resulted in warnings and four led to conditions on the brokers registration. Another 19 investigations are still open. Follow @alexposadzki on Twitter Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. Four people and two Canadian companies are facing charges over their alleged roles in exporting controlled goods and technologies to China that could enhance that countrys satellite cameras, RCMP said Monday. The Mounties allege the four were involved in creating and selling microelectronics, specifically a sensor, to two Chinese companies one of them state-owned. They allege the goods and technologies were being shipped from Canada to China in violation of the Canadian Controlled Goods Program and other export laws. Two Canadians who worked at Waterloo, Ont.-based Teledyne DALSA Inc. stole technology from their employer and set up a company with a former employee in order to get a contract to make the sensor, police alleged in a statement. Investigators say the fourth accused works with one of the Chinese companies allegedly involved. Project OSensor commenced in early 2014 after the RCMP was requested to conduct a criminal investigation by Public Services and Procurement Canada Controlled Goods Directorate and Global Affairs Canada, as a result of a written complaint from Teledyne DALSA, police said. Teledyne co-operated fully with the investigation, they said. Arthur Xin Pang, of Pierrefonds, Que., and his company Global Precision Inc., Bianqiao Li, of Waterloo, Ont., Nick Tasker of the United Kingdom and his Montreal-based company, 3D Microelectronics Inc., and Hugh Ciao, of California, face numerous offences related to the alleged incident. Police said Pang and Li were to appear for a bail hearing in a Waterloo court on Monday, while warrants have been issued for Tasker and Ciao. Canada has a controlled goods program designed to prevent proliferation of weapons, satellite communication equipment, military equipment and intellectual property. Canada has an international responsibility to safeguard its exports which potentially may be used against Canadians and their allies, said RCMP Supt. Jamie Jagoe. This investigation is an example of foreign governments having an interest in Canadian-based controlled technology and it highlights the RCMPs commitment to keeping Canadians safe from the potential misuse of that technology. The Canadian Space Agency, the Department of National Defence, Global Affairs Canada, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, and the FBI were among the agencies involved in the investigation, police said. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. REGINA The low price of oil is gushing red all over the Saskatchewan governments budget. Finance Minister Kevin Dohertys third-quarter fiscal update is forecasting a deficit of $427 million for the current fiscal year. The budget tabled last March had anticipated a surplus of just over $100 million. The big hit comes on the revenue side where income from non-renewable resources is down $617 million. I dont know where the price of oil is going to go. I mean, if I knew where the price of oil was going to go, absolutely, wed probably be having this news conference on my yacht in Hawaii, Doherty said Monday after releasing the update. We need to ensure that we continue to manage the things we can manage and I cant manage the price of oil. Oil was projected in the budget to bring in about $903 million, but thats now been recalculated to about $555 million. The price for benchmark West Texas Intermediate has been hovering just below US $35 a barrel. Revenue is also down from potash, a mineral used to make fertilizer. It was initially pegged at $796 million, but is now forecast at $651 million. That news follows word last week from PotashCorp that it plans to cut production at two Saskatchewan mines for four weeks beginning March 20. The Saskatoon-based company said on its website that its matching supply with market demand. Theres also less money from the provincial sales tax, as well as from fuel, property and tobacco taxes. When the oil and gas sector retrenches and pulls back, that service sector is not spending money on fuel, said Doherty. And the people living in those communities who have lost their jobs or theres very little work to do, are not going out for restaurant meals and buying new clothes and vehicles and those kind of things, so it impacts the consumption taxes, the provincial sales tax and the fuel tax base. But Saskatchewan will not follow Albertas lead and increase taxes, the finance minister said. Apart from $100 million to cover the cost of fighting forest fires last summer, the government has been able to control spending, Doherty said. Expenses budgeted at $14.2 billion last spring are forecast now to be just over $14.3 million. The bright side in 2015-16 has been agriculture. Total crop production was 12.9 per cent higher than the 10-year average, representing the second-largest crop on record. NDP Leader Cam Broten said the Saskatchewan Party inherited a booming economy and billions in a savings account when it took power in 2007, but mismanaged the money. Theyve spent every penny as fast as it came in, he said. They drained the rainy-day fund during the sunniest days here in Saskatchewan. They put nothing aside long-term and now, as soon as the financial picture tightens some, theyre going to the people of the province making cuts, asking them to pay more. Broten said the government should have opened the books sooner so voters could get a full picture ahead of the April 4 provincial election. Doherty said commodity-based provinces such as Saskatchewan can face ups and downs and hes comfortable going to voters with the numbers. Given the choices that we had, as a government we made the decision to run a deficit this year and a smaller deficit next year, forecast to bring us back to balance in 2017-2018. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. LOS ANGELES, Calif. Pakistani-Canadian filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy is revelling in her Oscar win, but its the prospect of real change in Pakistan that has her beaming. The 37-year-old claimed an Academy Award on Sunday for her short documentary on honour killings in Pakistan, A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness. The film examines the case of an 18-year-old girl who survived a brutal attack by her father and uncle who disapproved of her husband. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy poses in the press room with the award for best documentary short subject for A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness at the Oscars on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (Photo by Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) Obaid-Chinoy says shes heartened by reports that two people in Pakistan were sentenced Monday morning for an honour killing, an indication there might be a crackdown on the brutal tradition. For me, the biggest win is the fact that the issue Im trying to highlight has gotten such a tremendous response, and it will continue to, Obaid-Chinoy said Monday morning from Los Angeles. This morning in Pakistan they sentenced two people for an honour killing, so its already having some sort of reverberations. What more can a filmmaker ask for? Obaid-Chinoy says she celebrated her Oscar win at an after-party alongside Leonardo DiCaprio and Ben Affleck, and chatted with Mad Max star Charlize Theron and Facebook chief operating officer Sheryl Sandberg. But shes also drawn attention from world leaders, with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeting his congratulations Monday and Pakistans Prime Minister Muhammad Nawaz Sharif declaring in a statement that there is no place for killing in the name of honour in Islam. He said his government is in the process of developing legislation to stop the practice. Women like Ms. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy are not only a pride for the Pakistani nation but are also a significant source of contribution toward the march of civilization the world over, Sharif said. Rights groups estimate that about 1,000 Pakistani women are killed every year for bringing shame to their families. The killers are rarely prosecuted, because Pakistani law allows suspects to avoid punishment if they are forgiven by the family of their victims, a provision based in Islamic law. A Girl in the River is the latest in a series of socially charged investigative films from Obaid-Chinoys Karachi-based film company SOC Film. She also won an Oscar in 2012 for the documentary short Saving Face, about acid attacks. Obaid-Chinoy, a dual citizen who lived in Toronto from 2004 to 2015 and now lives in Pakistan, says Canada has had a big influence on her work. I have always admired Canadas longstanding human rights and recently how Canada has handled bringing in the refugees and the resettlement process, she says. Theres a lot that one can learn from Canada and the best thing about Canada for me is the diversity. The fact that you can be anyone and come from anywhere and yet be Canadian and be part of the Canadian mix. She says having two Oscars under her belt should allow her to continue making socially charged films. It just means that Im able to tell the stories that I want to tell, she says. Because access to funding is easier, because the films that I put out there have a broader audience and my voice is amplified a lot more. This was the sole Canadian win among a broad swath of homegrown nominees, including two contenders in the best picture race: the Canada-Ireland co-production Room and the Canada-U.K.-Ireland co-production Brooklyn. Those films lost to Spotlight, a muck-raking drama about sex abuse in the Catholic Church which emerged victorious over leading nominee The Revenant. Other Canadian hopefuls who went home empty-handed included actress Rachel McAdams for her supporting role in Spotlight, writer Emma Donoghue who was nominated for best adapted screenplay for Room, and chart-topper the Weeknd, who was up for best song for Earned It from Fifty Shades of Grey. A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness is set to air on HBO Canada on March 7. By Cassandra Szklarski in Toronto. With files from The Associated Press. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA Pamela Anderson is hoping Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will hear her out on behalf of seals. In a letter to Trudeau, the Canadian-born actress asks him to meet her to discuss phasing out or ending federal subsidies for the East Coast commercial seal hunt. Anderson writes in the letter obtained by The Canadian Press that Ottawa has poured millions of taxpayers dollars into propping up the fading industry. The honorary director of the PETA animal-rights group says the money could be better spent promoting businesses with a brighter future that would help the world see Canada as a sophisticated, enlightened country. The former star of the TV series Baywatch is among several prominent figures including U.S. President Barack Obama and music legend Paul McCartney who have spoken out against the hunt. Anderson notes that major markets such as the European Union, the United States and Russia have all banned seal-fur products over animal-welfare concerns. With limited market options, the commercial hunt in Canada has shrunk in recent years. Hunters landed 38,000 harp seals last year, compared with 55,000 in 2014 and 91,000 in 2013. The former Conservative government steadfastly defended the commercial hunt as beneficial for local economies, humane and well regulated. In recent years, the federal government has invested in programs to promote seal meat in domestic and foreign markets. Critics have long insisted its a cruel, unnecessary slaughter. Anderson wrote in her letter to Trudeau on Monday that she admires his progressive views on LGBT rights, his compassionate stance on the Syrian refugee crisis and his decision to name a gender-balanced cabinet. Theres another issue that has sullied Canada at home and abroad for years, which I hope youll address: wasteful government bailouts of the nearly extinct East Coast commercial seal trade, she wrote. I urge you to usher in a new era of fiscal responsibility and kindness by ending federal subsidies of the commercial seal slaughter I hope to hear that you will be available in the coming weeks to discuss this important issue in a more official setting. Follow @AndyBlatchford on Twitter Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. TORONTO WhatsApp says its messenger service will not work on most BlackBerry platforms by the end of this year. The company says it will end support for BlackBerry, including BlackBerry 10, as well as Nokia S40, Nokia Symbian S60, Android 2.1 and 2.2, and Windows Phone 7.1. It says it wants to focus its efforts on mobile platforms most used by consumers, which it says are Google, Apple and Microsoft operating systems. A spokesperson for WhatsApp says the service will still be available for the Priv, BlackBerrys latest offering which runs on an Android operating system. BlackBerry did not respond to a request for comment. WhatsApp, which launched in 2009, recommends consumers who use mobile devices where its messaging service will be phased out to upgrade to newer Android, iPhone or Windows phones if they want to still use the app. While these mobile devices have been an important part of our story, they dont offer the kind of capabilities we need to expand our apps features in the future, WhatsApp said in a blog post announcing the upcoming change. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. More than a dozen members of the Brandon Islamic Centre gathered to pray under unfamiliar circumstances on Saturday afternoon. Joining them in a nondescript, carpeted room in the mosque were about 30 parishioners from Catholic churches in Neepawa and Carberry watching quietly as their hosts worshipped. The Islamic Centres president, Faiz Ahmad, said the small mosque on 10th Street has hosted open houses before but Saturday was the first time a specific group of people have reached out to arrange a meeting. The group met for several hours and shared a potluck. Bruce Bumstead/The Brandon Sun Brandon Islamic Centre president Faiz Ahmad speaks to parishioners from Catholic churches in Neepawa and Carberry during an open house at the organizations mosque on Saturday. Catholics and Muslims came together to discuss the similarities and answer questions between their religions. We had an open house because theres a lot of conceptions that go around and following that, this parish group in Neepawa, led by Father Mark Filips, contacted one of the guys in our community and he brought the message to me, and I kept in contact with Father Filips, Ahmad said. Ahmad, a professor in Brandon Universitys biology department, said there are about 250 Muslims in Brandon, hailing from many areas of the world. India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore, Libya, Iraq, Iran, Lebanon, Egypt, Syria you name it, (were) very diverse. The common thing is we all follow Islam, he said. For the most part, Ahmad said what Brandons general population understands about his congregation is very poor. Its very poor, and its very wrong, he said, which is why the initiative from Filips and his congregation was so welcome. The culture in which we live in this country is that no one wants to interfere in anyones privacy. I cannot ask you how are you doing or whats wrong with your health because Im encroaching on your privacy, your confidentiality. It makes such an artificial relationship, he said. Ahmad said that barrier, combined with a blind acceptance of whats published by the media is harmful. We live in a strange time when we rely on the media to tell us who each other (is), he told his guests. All the wrong job has been done by the media. Anything that anyone does, if its a Muslim, they associate it to them. And thats the message that anyone takes that all Muslims are the same, Ahmad said later. Many of the questions at the mosque on Saturday were blunt. Inquires into the role of Jesus in their belief, the role of women in everyday life, creation, heaven and hell, prayer rituals and terrorism were fielded by members of the mosque, Thats what Filips, the pastor of Neepawas St. Dominics Parish and Our Lady of Assumption Church in Carberry, hoped would happen. Like (Faiz Ahmad) talked about, its important knowing who your neighbour is, even if theyre seven doors down. Thats part of it, thats one of the beautiful things about Canada, he said. Obviously, they are imparting their faith to us and there are some major differences in our understanding of who Jesus is and of Gods revelation to us. Christians, we dont acknowledge the Quran and it stops with the gospels, the good news, the New Testament its really just to come and learn and be that friendly neighbour and show theres no animosity, he said. Bruce Bumstead/ The Brandon Sun Dr. Muftah Mohamed (back to camera) speaks to parishioners from Catholic churches in Neepawa and Carberry during an open house at the Brandon Islamic Centre on Saturday afternoon. Like Ahmad, Filips is troubled by what he sees in the news. In particular some of the things that are coming out of the American election campaigns and from the GOP the picture thats sometimes being painted by certain people, just in my heart I know its not the right picture and many of my parishioners felt the same way. The trip into Brandon wasnt without controversy. Filips said he received several emails of great concern from a woman in his congregation. (The emails were) very negative towards Syrian refugees, We cant let them into the country that kind of thing. And then As a priest, Im not doing a good job leading my flock if Im bringing them here, Filips said. That was just one person but Im sure there are others and shes the one that voices it. They are caught up in that fear and suspicion. Ahmads answer? Opening the doors more often. We should advertise and open the doors and organize this more often, he said. We are no different from any other law-abiding citizen in the country. We carry out all the responsible jobs, as anyone else does. We have children and we want the protection of our children: we want our country to be safe and our country is Canada. tbateman@brandonsun.com Twitter: @tombatemann Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. TORONTO The legacy of Canadas efforts to resettle thousands of Syrian refugees will eclipse any delays or hiccups in rolling out the program, the federal immigration minister said Monday in marking the 25,000th arrival. I think what people will really remember some years from now is that we helped these 25,000 people come to our country and now they are productive, hardworking Canadians, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Minister John McCallum told a news conference at Torontos Pearson airport. Many countries around the world today are making it more difficult for refugees to come in, theyre setting up more barriers, and were among the few countries saying, No, come on in, we want to welcome 25,000 quickly.' John McCallum, left, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, greets Khloud, centre, along with her family at Pearson International Airport in Toronto on Monday, February 29, 2016. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Nathan Denette McCallum was at the airport as the last two government-arranged refugee flights were arriving as part of the Liberals $678-million settlement plan. Two special terminals set up in Toronto and Montreal will be shut down and any other Syrian refugees coming to Canada will arrive on commercial flights. The refugee resettlement program was launched in November after the Liberals came to power, but it soon became apparent they would be unable to meet a promise to bring in 25,000 government-sponsored refugees by the end of the year. Instead, the deadline was pushed to the end of February and the 25,000 Syrians that have already arrived are a mix of more than 14,300 refugees assisted by the government and about 8,500 sponsored privately. McCallum called it a significant milestone but said the work continues to integrate the Syrians into the community. More than half of those who have arrived have been resettled, he said. And while backlogs remain in cities such as Vancouver and Toronto, new communities are being earmarked to welcome the newcomers and ease the bottleneck, the minister said. Some settlement agencies have said housing remains the biggest challenge. Charities providing furniture to the refugees, meanwhile, have said they struggle to keep up with demand. McCallum said dealing with such an influx always takes time. He rejected the suggestion that the transition would have been smoother if the refugees had arrived more gradually. Urgency was a priority, he said. The sooner we could get them over here and out of the extremely difficult lives they were living, the better they would be off and the better it would be for Canada. An estimated 4.7 million Syrians have registered as refugees since the outbreak of the Syrian civil war in 2011, but the UN refugee agency is not seeking permanent new homes for that many. Syrian refugees have gone to communities where there are settlement supports in place, with consideration given to whether they have family members in Canada, as well as the availability of schools, and housing, McCallum said. Canadians from coast to coast to coast will have a hand in welcoming, integrating and contributing to the success of our newest community members, he said. The UN has reached out to countries to absorb about 10 per cent and only Germany has made more official spaces formally available than Canada. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. QUEBEC The president of energy company Petrolia Inc. says Quebec Premier Philippe Couillard still hasnt followed up on his commitment to meet rapidly with him to discuss oil and gas exploration on Anticosti Island. The premiers pledge on Feb. 16 to getting together with Alexandre Gagnon came a day after the executive said Couillard had been making statements in the media against drilling on the island but had refused to communicate with his company. On Monday, Gagnon sent Couillards office an email urging the premier to meet with him as soon as possible to dissipate the confusion and uncertainty caused by the remarks. Given whats at stake for our partners and investors, Im making a renewed pitch for the Feb. 16 commitment to materialize in short order, Gagnon wrote. Gagnon said Petrolia (TSX VENTURE:PEA) has been going through some tough times ever since Couillard began distancing himself from the project last December. We are convinced that you are able to understand the importance of this meeting, given the circumstances, read the email. Harold Fortin, a spokesman for Couillard, said Monday there would be no comment until the meeting with Petrolia is confirmed. In April 2014, the previous Parti Quebecois government took a 35 per cent share in a limited partnership one in which Petrolia has a 27 per cent stake to drill several exploratory wells on the island, located in the Gulf of St. Lawrence. Days later the Liberals won a majority in a provincial election. Couillard said earlier this month it was a serious error for the PQ to have put public funds toward the project and to sign drilling contracts. He said the exploratory well-drilling includes fracking, a controversial practice where a mixture is pumped deep underground in order to crack rocks and release natural gas, which risks affecting the water table. Couillard wants the water-impact studies to be released before he sits down with Petrolia. Gagnon says he has applied to the government for drilling permits for the island, as the exploratory work is scheduled to begin this summer. Opposition politicians have said Couillards refusal to confirm he will respect the contracts creates uncertainty in the market and is bad for the provinces economy. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. TORONTO Looking over at the jury that will decide her fate, a Toronto woman accused of murdering her severely disabled daughter said she did not kill her child. Cindy Ali testified at her first-degree murder trial Monday, where she has pleaded not guilty in the death of 16-year-old Cynara, who had cerebral palsy and couldnt walk, talk or feed herself. Crown prosecutors have argued Ali murdered Cynara in February 2011 by smothering her with a pillow and then spun an elaborate web of lies about a home invasion to cover up the crime. Ali, however, took the court through a blow-by-blow account of the alleged invasion, teared up when recalling how she didnt want to take her child off life support and was calm when asked by her lawyer whether she did anything at all to cause Cynaras death. No I did not, Ali said clearly. When a Crown lawyer suggested Ali was lying, the 45-year-old repeatedly said she didnt do anything to Cynara. I never hold the pillow over my daughters face, Ali said. I never did anything like that. Taking care of Cynara was not easy, Ali admitted. But it was a big joy for me as a mother. I have no complaints. On the morning of Feb. 19, 2011, when Ali and Cynara were home alone, the doorbell rang, court heard. There were two masked men that pushed the door in, Ali said, noting that the men were well-dressed, with black coats, black shoes, ski masks and gloves. They appeared to have dark skin and Jamaican accents, she said. Ali recalled that her immediate concern was Cynara, who she had left lying on the living room couch. The woman testified that she ran through the kitchen to get to the living room, grabbing two kitchen knives laying on the counter and hurling them at one of the men, who was pursuing her. At that point, Ali noticed one of the men had a gun, court heard. That man started asking her about a package, she said. I said what package? I have no clue what youre talking about, Ali recounted. I went straight to Cynara. Ali said the man with the gun then grabbed her by the arm saying he wanted to go upstairs. They went into the master bedroom, where the man opened drawers and cupboards, then on to a bedroom where two other daughters slept, and then Cynaras room, she said. My drawers are very tidy and neat so if he pulled the drawers you can see what hes looking for, she said. I didnt know the size of the package. Crown prosecutors have told the jury that police found drawers pulled open in Alis house, but the contents did not appear to have been rummaged through. When the man was in Cynaras room, Ali said she ran downstairs, grabbing a candle holder from the front hallway and throwing it over her shoulder before rushing into the living room where she tripped over a carpet. The man followed and kicked Ali as she was getting up, she said. When she was on her feet, she said she saw Cynara, who began laughing at the sight of her mother. The man then took Ali to the basement, while his accomplice remained in the living room with Cynara, Ali said. While in the basement, Ali made another dash back to the living room, court heard. That was when Ali said she looked at the second man and froze. He was just standing there and he had a pillow in his hand, she said. He was standing by CynaraShe wasnt moving, she was very quiet and she was pale. At that point the man who had been leading Ali through the house announced they had the wrong residence and left with his accomplice through a basement door, Ali said. As she heard them leave, Ali shook her daughter gently and called 911 when the girl didnt respond. Ali said she passed out while on the phone with the 911 operator and had trouble processing questions first responders asked when they found Cynara without vital signs. I was just numb, I was frozen, she said. I keep asking Is Cynara ok?' Cynara died in a Toronto hospital two days later, court heard. I wasnt ready to let her go, an emotional Ali said in court, adding that she was surprised when she became a suspect in the case. Till this day I still dont understand how I got to this point. An autopsy found Cynaras immediate cause of death was a brain injury from deprivation of oxygen, which was caused by cardiac arrest. Court heard the cardiac arrest could have been caused by suffocation. A pathologist called by Alis defence lawyer has suggested, however, that Cynara could have suffered a seizure-related death. Ali said her daughter had several seizures in a year including three the day before the alleged home invasion and some appeared to be triggered by being around strangers. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 28/02/2016 (2427 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. LOS ANGELES, Calif. A searing look at honour killings in Pakistan earned Pakistani-Canadian filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy an Academy Award on Sunday night. The 37-year-old director claimed her second career Oscar, this time winning for A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness in the best short documentary category. The film examines the case of an 18-year-old Pakistani girl who survived a brutal attack by her father and uncle bent on an honour killing. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy accepts the award for best documentary short for A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness at the Oscars on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (Photo by Chris Pizzello/Invision/AP) This is what happens when determined women get together, a triumphant Obaid-Chinoy declared to cheers from the celeb-studded crowd. This week the Pakistani prime minister has said that he will change the law on honour killing after watching this film. That is the power of film. It was the sole Canadian win among a broad swath of homegrown nominees, including not one but two contenders in the best picture race: the Canada-Ireland co-production Room and the Canada-U.K.-Ireland co-production Brooklyn. Those films lost to Spotlight, a muck-raking drama about sex abuse in the Catholic Church which emerged victorious over leading nominee The Revenant. The movie was largely shot in Toronto and Hamilton with Canadian actors including Rachel McAdams, who was nominated but lost for her supporting role as a Boston Globe reporter, and Len Cariou as a cardinal. Producers included Toronto-bred Michael Bederman. Other Canadian hopefuls who went home empty-handed included writer Emma Donoghue who was nominated for best adapted screenplay for Room, and chart-topper the Weeknd, who was up for best song for Earned It from Fifty Shades of Grey. Room did earn a statue by way of best actress winner Brie Larson, a U.S. starlet on the rise for her turn as a resilient mother determined to give her son a happy childhood after years living in captivity. Obaid-Chinoy adds Sundays trophy to one she claimed in 2012 for the documentary short Saving Face, about acid attacks. A Girl in the River is the latest in a series of socially charged investigative films from her Karachi-based film company SOC Film. Rights groups estimate that about 1,000 Pakistani women are killed every year for bringing shame to their families. The brutal tradition allows murderers to avoid punishment if they are forgiven by the family of their victims. The Pakistani premiere was attended by senior cabinet members and diplomats. After the screening, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif vowed to change laws that allow families to murder their daughters in the name of honour. Obaid-Chinoys other accolades include a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, a Crystal Award from the World Economic Forum and a state honour from the Pakistani government. In the weeks leading up to the Oscars, Obaid-Chinoy said she was grateful to see her nomination spark discussion around religiously motivated murders. I think that thats a win in itself because its such a difficult topic and people shy away from it, normally, said Obaid-Chinoy, a dual citizen who lived in Toronto from 2004 to 2015. Her competition Sunday included Toronto-based journalist Adam Benzine, who was up for his short film Claude Lanzmann: Spectres of the Shoah. A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness is set to air on HBO Canada on March 7. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. LIVERPOOL, N.S. In a time in which many marriages dont last, a Nova Scotia couple who met as teenagers in 1932 are being honoured as one of Canadas longest couples. Bill and Bertie Nickerson have been married 80 years and still live in the same brick house in Liverpool, N.S., he had built for them following their wedding in 1935. Weve agreed and got along with each other and weve been doing fine. He hasnt kicked me out yet and I havent kicked him out, so were sticking together, Bertie said Monday. Bill and Bertie Nickerson, shown in a handout photo, celebrated their 80th wedding anniversary on December 2, 2015. The couple from Liverpool, N.S., is being honoured as one of Canada's longest married couples. THE CANADIAN PRESS/HO Bill is now 101 years old, and Bertie is 98. They met by chance. Bill had a friend who was going from his hometown of Liverpool to nearby Milton to visit Berties older sister and encouraged Bill to tag along. Bertie said it turned into a blind date. He got stuck with me, she said. He was a young man and full of mischief. They dated for three years because 15-year-old Bertie said she wouldnt get married until she turned 18 and graduated high school. Bill who was sick Monday and unavailable for an interview recently told the Queens County Advance newspaper that it was love at first sight for him. It was like heaven. Something went over me that I cant explain, he said. Bill worked much of his life at the nearby paper mill, while Bertie was a nurse. Their grand-daughter, Kerri Nickerson, nominated the couple in a contest run by Worldwide Marriage Encounter a Catholic organization that promotes healthy marriages, although it recognizes only those between a man and a woman. The Longest Married Couple project was created to highlight the value of marriage and to show the world that marriage really can go the distance, spokesperson Ana Lilian said in a statement. The Nickersons were the longest married couple among those nominated across Canada for 2015. Kerri Nickerson says her grandparents have always been in love and often refer to each other as boyfriend and girlfriend. I think theyve been very open and honest with each other, Kerri said. She said the couple has gotten a lot of support from friends and family, and in return have set an example to follow. They have the old-fashioned morals, she said. Bertie said she and Bill liked travelling and raising their two sons. They have four grandchildren and two great-granddaughters. These days she says they are housebound. He looks at me and says Im so glad youre here, Bertie said. She said the doctor has said the couple should be in a nursing home, but they wont hear of it. Were content where we are, and were going to stay here, she said. By Kevin Bissett in Fredericton. Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. OTTAWA Prime Minister Justin Trudeau should apologize to a pair of national aboriginal organizations excluded from upcoming discussions on climate change in Vancouver, says NDP Leader Tom Mulcair. Both the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples and the Native Womens Association of Canada have written to the prime minister and the premiers to complain about being excluded from the meetings, which start Wednesday. Trudeau should ensure the groups are at the table, Mulcair said in an interview with The Canadian Press. NDP Leader Tom Mulcair asks a question during Question Period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa, on Wednesday, Feb.24, 2016. Mulcair wants Justin Trudeau to apologize to a pair of national aboriginal organizations excluded from upcoming discussions on climate change in Vancouver. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Adrian Wyld Theres really no excuse for it, he said. It is a slight. He should apologize and just do the right thing and invite the two remaining groups. Trudeau promised to engage with all five nationally recognized aboriginal organizations, so there is no reason to exclude two of them this week, Mulcair added. It is incomprehensible that he would try and pick and choose which groups get to sit at the table when he promised that all five national groups would be there, he said. Dwight Dorey, the national chief of the Congress of Aboriginal Peoples, said he has a flight booked to Vancouver, despite the lack of an invitation. Dorey is confused why the government paid for him to attend the COP21 climate change discussions in Paris, but now he cant have a seat at the Vancouver discussions. I dont see why Id be excluded now, he said. Im just going (to Vancouver) with the understanding that I would expect to be there. Trudeau has also faced similar pressure from the premiers ahead of the meeting. Manitoba Premier Greg Selinger said all five groups should be able to attend. Weve had that tradition in the past when they meet with the Council of the Federation, Selinger said in an interview. We meet with all five organizations and were supportive of continuing that practice. In a statement released last week, the Prime Ministers Office said Trudeau would meet the premiers, the Assembly of First Nations, the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the Metis National Council ahead of the first ministers meeting in the context of a renewed nation-to-nation relationship. The meetings do not in any way preclude ongoing discussions with all five national aboriginal organizations, as committed to by the prime minister late last year, the statement said. The government of Canada has committed to working and meeting regularly with the national aboriginal organizations, and will continue to engage in robust bilateral discussions with all five on issues of importance to their members, said spokesperson Andree-Lyne Halle. This explanation does not hold weight, Mulcair said. The best way we start getting to solutions is to have all five at the table otherwise any nation-to-nation approach risks becoming an empty shell because theyve promised that theyd all be there, he said. You cant be respectful and you cant have a nation-to-nation approach if youre deciding to exclude some. Follow @kkirkup on Twitter Hey there, time traveller! This article was published 29/02/2016 (2426 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current. WASHINGTON Some Republicans are so distressed by the thought of Donald Trump as their presidential nominee that theyve turned to a higher power for electoral guidance. I have prayed about it, said Kathy Hughes, a retired South Carolina schoolteacher who supports Sen. Ted Cruz. I dont think I could vote for him. Never. (And) never have I voted Democrat I guess I would stay home. That would be a first for me. I am 68 years old and I have voted in every election. In this Friday, Feb. 26, 2016 photo, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks to supporters during a rally in Fort Worth, Texas. To his supporters, the business career of Trump shows hes got the decisiveness and smarts to lead the country. To critics, his exaggerated claims, burned customers and four bankruptcies suggest a man wholly disqualified for the office. (AP Photo/LM Otero) Such unusually strong concern points to an intra-party rift that could deepen after Tuesday, should Trump sweep a dozen primaries and move closer to the nomination. The decades-old Republican coalition shows signs of cracking. Trump is the human wedge jammed into its fault lines. Some social conservatives are dismayed by his habit of swearing in speeches and past support for abortion; libertarians are appalled by his celebration of aggressive policing and torture; business titans are unnerved by his denunciation of trade deals and job outsourcing. Hughes worries about Trumps authoritarian language. Just the other day, he suggested making it easier to sue media who write unfair stories. He proposes targeting tariffs against companies that open plants overseas. As a religious person, shes also turned off by his constant bragging about money, his wavering on abortion and his salty language: I think hes vulgar. A Super Tuesday sweep would only stoke the already burning conversation topic at Republican gatherings these days: What to do if Trump becomes the nominee support him, vote Democrat, stay at home, or back a third-party candidacy? At a Marco Rubio rally another party activist says hell be seeking spiritual guidance, should Trump be crowned at this summers Republican convention. The first thing Id have to do on July 21 (after the convention) is pray, said Bob Barnwell, who sits on a precinct committee. People are saying, Well, I would have to vote for Trump. Id have to think about that. Im not really sure I would work for him, or give to the campaign. The truth is the vast majority of Republicans say theyd support Trump, should he be the standard-bearer. He could also succeed at bringing in new voters as Ronald Reagan did. Early signs point to the possibility of a new coalition. Thousands have changed their political affiliation in Massachusetts, apparently to participate in the Republican primary. In New York, the Post reported on an internal poll that supposedly shows Trump competing in New York state which no Republican has won since Reagan. Still, numerous data points offer worrisome signs and people like Marco Rubio are frantically pointing at them he says a Trump nomination could mean the destruction of the GOP. A Bloomberg poll last month said only half of non-Trump-supporting Republicans would back him in a general election, which would be a catastrophic loss of votes. The site fivethirtyeight.com examined whether this could be the historical unravelling of a partisan coalition reminiscent of how the Democrats alliance of northern liberals and working-class southerners blew up in the 1960s. A long-time Republican who helped build the party in the south says these are perilous times. Fifty years ago this month, a young Harry Lee Poe scandalized his South Carolina neighbours by coming out as a Republican. He was tired of the corruption that had seeped into the one-party state governed by Democrats. Hes written a book, Total Commitment, about the rag-tag organizational team led by youngsters who in 1974 helped elect a Republican governor in the state for the first time in a century. The shift happened in stages: first, segregationist senator Strom Thurmond left the Democrats in protest over civil-rights legislation; then the anti-communist hawks joined in; the business community followed; rural areas were next; and by the 1970s the Republicans were a southern powerhouse. He fears its all coming apart now. It is a pivotal moment If (Trump) got the nomination, I could see a situation where a lot of Republicans just stay home, said Poe, who preceded the legendary organizer Lee Atwater as chair of the states college Republicans. If its not handled well it, could all just blow up. Hes now a religious scholar and hasnt been involved in politics for years. But he offers two bits of advice to his party: Focus on peoples bread-and-butter concerns, like jobs and college tuition. And nominate someone with governing experience. A high-powered trade delegation from China will visit Cork today as part of continued efforts to forge economic and tourism links. The delegation from the city of Xuzhou will include senior representatives from a number of large, influential companies based in the Chinese city. It's February 29th, a Leap Year - and you know what that means. LADIES PROPOSING EVERYWHERE. Yes, it's the only day women can propose, apparently, without seeming like desperate, needy saddos so all you single men out there better watch out lest you get tricked into an engagement. Naas Garda Station are aware of just how dangerous today is and have issued this warning to any men at risk of becoming fiances. "Gardai in Naas are warning single men to be on the lookout today for any women who may approach them in a sinister fashion. They may be in posession of a small, ring-sized jewellery box and might look like they are about to throw themselves to their knees. Incidents like this last happened in the area almost exactly four years ago and the unfortunate male victims still haven't recovered. "There is no escape so just take it like a..... well like a man really. This is not a matter that the local Garda station can help you with so either run and hide, don't leave the house or else just say yes!! Let us know if there are any victims locally to this 29th February onslaught and good luck to any 'attackers'." If you can't see the post, click here The post has been shared over 3,000 times so there's definitely concern. Stay safe out there. Update Monday, Feb 29: Crews from Dublin Fire Brigade have managed to successfully battle a large blaze in Inchicore in Dublin. The fire broke out at a derelict pub, formerly known as the Horse and Jockey, on Emmet Road just before 7pm last night. Dublin Fire Brigade say the fire has now been put out and the roads have reopened. Update 8.50pm, Sunday night: Five fire trucks are still battling a large blaze in Inchicore in Dublin. The fire broke out at a derelict pub on Emmet Road just before 7pm. AA Roadwatch says Emmet Rd remains closed to traffic between the South Circular Road Junction and the Bulfin Road Junction. Diversions are in place. Emergency services are at the scene of a fire in Inchicore in Dublin. Five fire trucks are battling the blaze at a derelict pub on Emmet Road. Dublin Fire Brigade say the area is sealed off and that there are no reports of any injuries. Outgoing Labour Minister of State Ged Nash, who lost his seat in Louth, described as "absolute tripe" suggestions that Labour had not been 'left' enough in this election campaign. "(That's) absolute and utter tripe," he said. "We had a difficulty communicating our message - I accept that. "We know of course the recovery hasn't reached everybody and there are some who are maybe over-egging that. "Irish politics is going to be a greatly diminished place because of the diminished numbers the Labour Party will now have. "But that will be short-lived. We will be back." There are just 10 seats still to be filled in the 32nd Dail, with 148 deputies elected over the weekend. Fianna Gael and Fianna Fail are the two biggest parties with 47 and 43 seats respectively. Focus is now on whether the two will join forces to form a 'grand coalition'. Incoming Fianna Fail TD for Cork North Central and the party's director of elections Billy Kelleher (pictured above) said it was highly unlikely his party will support a Fine Gael-led government. He said he believed the party should fulfil the mandate it sought - to remove Fine Gael. "Personally what I think should happen is Fianna Fail should publish a programme for parliament, as opposed to a programme for government, and try to seek support for a Fianna Fail government, maybe tying in Independents and smaller parties and see can it command a working majority. "I think it is highly unlikely that we will support Fine Gael in government, and I think they will be the same. They have been rejected by the people." A man jailed for life for the murder of a French musician and juggler in Bray seven years ago has had an appeal against his conviction dismissed. Declan Sheridan (aged 29), of Sugarloaf View, Sea Road, Kilcoole, had pleaded not guilty to the murder of French man Charles Sinapayen at Richmond Hill, Fassaroe, in Bray in the early hours of May 29, 2009. The 33-year-old musician and juggler by trade, who was originally from Bordeaux, was shot through the window of the apartment he shared with his girlfriend Mary Kinlan. The Central Criminal Court trial of Sheridan and his co-accused heard that there was no known motive for the murder. Sheridan, along with his co-accused, was unanimously found guilty of Mr Sinapayen's murder and he was given the mandatory life sentence by Mr Justice Paul Carney on June 17, 2011. He had moved to appeal his conviction today on the principle ground that the jury should not have been permitted to hear evidence of an informal identification procedure which took place in Shankill garda station while Sheridan was in custody. Dismissing his appeal this afternoon, Mr Justice George Birmingham said the investigating gardai were entitled to see if their witness was in a position to make an identification. Once Sheridan refused to participate in a formal procedure, the only option was some sort of informal procedure. The court heard that Sheridan was brought out into the yard of the station along with a number of volunteers. The garda's witness was inside a garda van and could see out into the yard but could not be seen by persons from the yard. He identified Sheridan as a person he had driven to the scene of the shooting and from a graveyard after the shooting to a halting site in Shankill. Mr Justice Birmingham said there were certain advantages to the procedure adopted. The volunteers had their photos and details taken by the gardai which meant the judge and jury could assess how satisfactory the procedure was. Mr Justice Birmingham, who sat with Mr Justice Alan Mahon and Mr Justice Paul Butler, said nothing that occurred was in any way unfair or improper. Sheridan's appeal was therefore dismissed. Ireland will celebrate the centenary of its Easter Rising, which led to independence from British rule, without a government, former Taoiseach Bertie Ahern has forecast. Political leaders are scrambling to find allies to form a new administration after one of the most indecisive general election outcomes of recent times. With just a clutch of seats to be decided, the two main political parties are coming under intense pressure to set aside their age-old enmity and forge an unprecedented alliance as confusion reigns about the way forward. But ex-Fianna Fail leader Mr Ahern ruled out his party entering a coalition with arch-rivals Fine Gael, predicting a minority government which will not be agreed upon for at least another month. "There is no way, in my view, that this is going to be resolved before Easter. People can forget that," he said. A massive voter schism after last Friday's poll comes amid national celebrations of the 1916 rebellion, a seminal moment in Irish history which ultimately led to partition and the creation of both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. The rising was followed by a bitter civil war, with the country's two main parties being born out of the opposing sides. Despite pressure mounting on the pair to come together to form a "grand coalition" that would restore stability, Mr Ahern said a union was unlikely to work. "It'll come down to a combination, that there are a group of parties, maybe two parties, but a group of parties who are prepared to support a Taoiseach. I think that will happen," he said. "That government will be a minority government clearly because it won't have the numbers but it'll have sufficient support from outside." He also ruled out the prospect of a re-run of the election. "Politicians are exhausted, they've spent a lot of money, their workers have taken leave, they won't want a 2016 election," he said. "Some way will be found to make sure it's not 2016." Taoiseach Enda Kenny is meeting his party leadership while Fianna Fail chief Micheal Martin has opened talks with his own stalwarts about their limited options. Making the first move, Mr Martin called for the parties to agree an overhaul of how the Dail works before a new government is formed. "We believe that the new Dail should not represent more business as usual - that it should involve a decisive move towards a reformed politics," he said, in a statement issued on Monday evening. "This should be addressed immediately and before the process of forming a new government is proceeded with. "The next government should take up office subject to a reformed Dail rather than leaving reform in the hands of that government." Mr Martin urged "cross-Dail agreement" on parliamentary overhaul "before discussions on the make-up of the next government advance". The Fianna Fail chief has suggested political parties and groupings could each nominate one of their own to the reform negotiations table within two weeks. Voters have demanded "fundamental change", he added. As counting continued in Dublin's RDS, Sinn Fein leader Gerry Adams said it did not look like his party had the numbers to enter government but would continue talks with other like-minded factions and Independents. "Whether in opposition or in government we will stick by our mandate continue to push the process of change which is under way," he added. Fractures have already opened within both Fianna Fail and Fine Gael, who have swapped power for decades, about doing a deal with the old enemy. Fine Gael looks set to be the largest party despite suffering humiliating losses after five years in power implementing austerity, taking a narrow lead over its traditional opponent. Outgoing junior coalition partner Labour has taken a drubbing with a number of its ministers being ejected, although party leader Joan Burton and deputy leader Alan Kelly won fights to retain their seats. Ms Burton said she did not see her party in the next government. Sinn Fein has further increased its vote south of the Irish border, making it the third largest. Gerry Adams's party said it would not prop up either of the two traditional parties. With a large section of the electorate backing smaller parties and independents, the make-up of a new government remains in doubt, if an administration can be formed at all. Such is the uncertainty, senior political figures have talked openly about a new political system, citing continental European-style consensual arrangements or even a power-sharing executive similar to Northern Ireland. Among the battered coalition's biggest casualties were 10 serving or ex-ministers, including Fine Gael's deputy leader and former health minister James Reilly, the party's former justice minister Alan Shatter and Labour's communications minister Alex White. The Immigrant council of Ireland has said nine refugees found in a container in Wexford over the weekend should be treated with humanity by the Irish authorities. The nine adult men are believed to be Kurdish and were found at around 3.30pm last Friday afternoon in New Ross. Italy prop Martin Castrogiovanni has been cited for allegedly stamping on Scotland's Duncan Taylor during Saturday's RBS 6 Nations meeting in Rome. A statement from Six Nations organisers confirmed the 34-year-old will attend a disciplinary hearing in London on Wednesday to answer to a charge of breaching Law 10.4(b) - "a player must not stamp or trample on an opponent" - during Scotland's 36-20 victory at the Stadio Olimpico. At least 38 people have been killed by an Islamic State suicide bombing at an Iraqi funeral. Another 58 people were wounded in the attack in Muqdadiyah, about 60 miles north of Baghdad, according to security and hospital officials. The dead included a local commander from Asaib Ahl al-Haq, a powerful Shiite militia which is part of the state-sanctioned Popular Mobilisation Forces, responsible for much of the security in the area. The attacker was wearing a suicide vest and entered the funeral hall among mourners lining up to pay their respects, according to a local security official. IS bombed a cafe frequented by militiamen in Muqdadiyah in January, killing at least 32 people and triggering a wave of revenge attacks on Sunni mosques and civilians. Human Rights Watch blamed the reprisal attacks on powerful militias within the Popular Mobilisation Forces. IS claimed responsibility for the latest attack in a statement posted online, the day after a double bombing in Baghdad claimed by IS killed 73 people. The initial blast ripped through a crowded market in the Shiite district of Sadr City. A suicide bomber then targeted the crowd that gathered to help the victims. Sunday's bombings marked the deadliest single attack in the Iraqi capital in months, fuelling fears that IS is resorting to mass attacks on civilians as it suffers battlefield setbacks. IS still controls much of northern and western Iraq but has been driven back in recent months. The government recently declared the western city of Ramadi "fully liberated", after IS captured it last year. Donald Trump's refusal to denounce an implicit endorsement from a former Ku Klux Klan leader dominated the narrative as Republican voters across 11 states prepared to head to the polls on Super Tuesday. Mr Trump's rivals are scrambling to stop the billionaire businessman from becoming an "unstoppable" force in the 2016 US presidential contest. And even Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton, fresh from a strong win in South Carolina, has started turning her focus on him. Texas Senator Ted Cruz and Florida Senator Marco Rubio continued to criticise Mr Trump's character and lack of policy specifics in a series of attacks on Sunday while courting voters across the South, whose states dominate Tuesday's voting. Mr Rubio and Mr Cruz acknowledge that time is running out to prevent the former reality television host from becoming the Republican Party's presumptive nominee, as the race to collect delegates for the party's nominating convention this summer continues. Mr Trump has won three of four early voting states, and Republicans are divided over the prospect of the brash billionaire becoming their nominee. "There is no doubt that if Donald steam rolls through Super Tuesday, wins everywhere with big margins, that he may well be unstoppable," Mr Cruz said. Mr Trump was asked on CNN whether he rejected support from former KKK Grand Dragon David Duke and other white supremacists, after Mr Duke told his radio followers this week that a vote against Mr Trump was equivalent to "treason to your heritage". "Well, just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke. OK?" Mr Trump said. "I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists." Mr Trump later said he did not hear or understand the CNN question. Mr Cruz soon responded on Twitter, telling Mr Trump: "You're better than this. We should all agree, racism is wrong, KKK is abhorrent." Mr Rubio went further, telling a Virginia rally: "We cannot be a party who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan. America's first black president cannot and will not be succeeded by a hatemonger who refuses to condemn the KKK. Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) February 28, 2016 "Not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable. How are we going to grow the party if we nominate someone who doesn't repudiate the Ku Klux Klan?" Mr Trump has not always claimed ignorance on Mr Duke's history. In 2000, he wrote a New York Times editorial explaining why he abandoned the possibility of running for president on the Reform Party ticket. He wrote of an "underside" and "fringe element" of the party, concluding: "I leave the Reform Party to David Duke, Pat Buchanan and Lenora Fulani. "That is not company I wish to keep." Asked about the issue on Monday, Mr Trump told NBC he had disavowed Mr Duke and asked: "How many times do I have to continue to disavow people?" The Duke debate seeped into the Democratic contest, as Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders lashed out on Twitter: "America's first black president cannot and will not be succeeded by a hatemonger who refuses to condemn the KKK." Mrs Clinton re-tweeted Mr Sanders' message. The former secretary of state holds a huge advantage among African-Americans, a key Democratic constituency that will play a dominant role in several Super Tuesday states. Mr Trump holds commanding leads across the South, with the exception of Mr Cruz's home state of Texas, a dynamic that puts tremendous pressure on Mr Rubio and Mr Cruz as they try to outlast each other. Mr Trump mocked the Republican establishment and his flailing rivals, telling NBC: "It's amazing what's going on," and calling his campaign a "movement". Police are to tighten security on an island in eastern Thailand after four French tourists were brutally assaulted. The attack raises fresh concerns about tourist safety in Thailand, which hosted a record 29 million visitors last year. Police had the five Cambodian suspects in the attack on Koh Kut re-enact the crime, a standard procedure in the Thai justice system. Angry residents tried to attack the men but police pushed them away. Angry Mob Assaults 5 Cambodians Accused of Raping French Women on Koh Kuthttps://t.co/bw8XIK5lQv pic.twitter.com/rhU3NY83eM Khaosod English (@KhaosodEnglish) February 29, 2016 Police said they would press charges of rape and conspiracy to assault against the five, adding they have confessed involvement. "We don't have a lot of criminal cases in Koh Kut, not even robbery," Koh Kut deputy police chief Lt. Col Suraporn Thepsen said. "The perpetrators are not local people and they just anchored their boat to avoid strong winds. "We will have to tighten security in Koh Kut." Cambodian Sailors Accused of Raping French Tourists on Koh Kut Island, Thailand https://t.co/wt7AljW4e4 pic.twitter.com/yJFhIixPYj Bangkok Informer (@bangkokinformer) February 28, 2016 A director of the hospital where the victims were taken after the Saturday night attack said their condition has improved. The women, aged 57 and 28, are mother and daughter. The two men, one from the same family, are 30 and 29 years old. Trat province police chief Maj Gen Nopparat Rintapon said the attackers jumped off their anchored fishing boat and swam to Koh Kut after they had been drinking. Two of them met the French tourists and began talking to them, when the other three came running from the brush where they had been hiding and attacked them with knives and sticks, slashing one of the men badly while the other was able to escape and run to a nearby hotel for help. About 50 police and other officials and local residents cordoned off the area, and at around 4-5am on Sunday managed to capture three suspects. The other two were arrested on Sunday afternoon at a border checkpoint when they tried to cross into Cambodia. The incident is the latest attack on foreign tourists in Thailand. In December, a Thai court sentenced two Burmese migrants to death for the murders of British tourists Hannah Witheridge and David Miller, whose bodies were found on the Thai resort island of Koh Tao in September 2014. French riot police have fired tear gas as demolition teams moved in to start dismantling makeshift homes at the Calais refugee camp known as The Jungle. Tear gas was used reportedly in response to stone throwers at the slum - home to around 4,000 people, many of whom are intent on reaching Britain. British volunteers condemned the response from the French authorities as it emerged that water cannon had also been sent into the site. Tanya Freedman, of Help Refugees, said: "We're very disappointed because the French interior minister Bernard Cazeneuve insisted in a public statement that the clearance would be done in a humane fashion. "On the first major day of dismantling, this is the way they are going about things." Lines of police vans gathered on the perimeter of the southern section and people were prevented from going on to the site. The action came after a judge in Lille ruled last Thursday that a partial clearance should go ahead, apart from social spaces including schools and places of worship. French authorities want to relocate people from the squalid, rat-infested site to heated containers nearby or to centres around France. Campaigners had called for a postponement to remove people from the slum, saying there was not enough new accommodation for people to move to. A spokesman for Doctors of the World said its medics had been unable to enter as the entrance was blocked by police. Basic supplies and care materials were being prepared for those evicted. Its UK director, Leigh Daynes, said: "Dismantling a large part of the main Calais camp is irresponsible and inhuman. It completely ignores needs on the ground and will just traumatise people already close to the edge. "It won't stop refugees coming to Calais nor make the thousands there already disappear. People will just be forced elsewhere to live in even more squalid conditions." Elaine Oritz, of the Hummingbird Project, which has been supporting Calais migrants and refugees, also said volunteers were not being allowed into the camp. She said teams started arriving at The Jungle at around 8am, telling people they had an hour to leave the southern section of the camp. "By dispersing people elsewhere, it means all the protective factors given to the people (at The Jungle), including medical help, will be removed," she said. Human rights organisation Liberty said political leaders should not be "looking away" from the plight of refugees at The Jungle, including unaccompanied children. Some have criticised the decision to send in demolition teams, including Liberal Democrat leader Tim Farron, who said razing the camp was not the solution. But British hauliers welcomed last week's court's judgment. The Freight Transport Association (FTA) said disruption caused by migrants cost the UK freight industry an estimated 750,000 a day last year. FTA officials said a solution needed to be found to protect the 89 billion of UK trade which passes through cross-Channel ports annually. Pakistans goods exports may have only risen 2.6 percent year-on-year in 1QFY23, but there is enough in it to... RABAT: One volunteer firefighter has been killed and another injured in a forest fire in northern Morocco, where new... LONDON: Liz Truss came to 10 Downing Street vowing to be a disruptor. She U-turned on almost everything else, but... A man accused of beating a Canberra grandfather to death was suffering paranoid psychosis, and likely held a delusional belief that he needed to kill the man to protect himself or his family, says a psychiatrist. Danny Klobucar, 27, is on trial in the ACT Supreme Court for the alleged murder of Miodrag Gajic, 71, who was bashed to death at his Phillip unit on New Year's Day in 2014. Miodrag Gajic. Mr Klobucar allegedly went to buy cannabis from Mr Gajic on December 30, and noticed the deceased's Nissan Micra, remarking that it looked like a "gay" car, and that the owner was probably a paedophile who may have a DVD of him. It is alleged he went back to the Mansfield Place unit on New Year's Day, attacked Mr Gajic at the front door and inflicted fatal blunt force trauma. Two bikies have pleaded guilty to bashing a rival gang member who intruded on Rebels "turf" without permission in 2014. Kirk James Newman, 28, and Dean Reid, 27, confronted two Finks bikies outside the Belconnen shopping centre. The incident was captured on the shopping centre's CCTV cameras, which showed one of the Finks bikies trying to escape up a flight of stairs while being assaulted. Newman and Reid had been charged with affray, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and aggravated robbery against one of the Finks bikies. A Canberra woman who let her dogs starve in rooms filled with faeces and rubbish has been banned from owning pets for 10 years. The RSPCA first went to the woman's home in April 2014, acting on a public tip-off about possible neglect. This dog was found severely underweight and infested with fleas. What they found was enough for them to force entry to the house and seize four dogs and a cat. One doberman - described by RSPCA chief executive Tammy Ven Dange as a "grey ghost" - was so underweight that it's spine, ribs, and hips were clearly visible. A Kambah woman is chasing more than $155,000 in compensation after injuring herself at a popular bar on Northbourne Avenue, which closed its doors in September 2014. According to court documents, the then 21-year-old old was drinking at Northbar with family and friends in July 2013 when she fell, leading to months of persistent pain and expenses. A Kambah woman is owed more than $155,000 after falling a now closed northside bar. Credit:Rob Homer The woman, represented by Blumers personal injury lawyers, claimed to have had two alcoholic drinks at the venue but admitted to having another two or three drinks at a family dinner earlier in the evening. She said she walked across a polished concrete floor to meet her friend around 12.30am when she slipped and fell on the floor. A boom in online payday lending in Australia has helped Cash Converters return to profit after multimillion-dollar losses last year. The company, which is known for its bright yellow pawn shops, hopes to cash in on the growing number of Australians turning to the internet for fast cash. More than 1 million Australians are estimated to take out a payday loan each year. Credit:Karl Hilzinger It plans to expand its store network in Australia while retreating from Britain, and invest more in the fast-growing online lending market. The change in strategy comes after a drop of more than 50 per cent in its share price in 2015, amid a government review of the laws in the payday lending sector. Every fortnight since April 2012, Kylie Whitfield has made a payment of $60: a contribution towards a $3500 package of photos and memorabilia she ordered after the birth of her first daughter Chloe. Chloe is now four years old and Ms Whitfield is yet to receive more than half of the goods she ordered. "The package included photos, a photo disc, four canvases, three photo books and three [acrylic] photos. I made my final payment in August last year." Ms Whitfield, from Cessnock, is one of many parents to have experienced difficulty in receiving goods from baby photography business Little Masterpiece Studio Pty Ltd. We can't know for certain whether the Safe Schools program itself works. It hasn't been going long enough for one of those splendid longitudinal studies which examines the impact of policies, strategies, actions on any group of people. Safe Schools hasn't been going long enough for a study which examines the impact of policies, strategies and actions on any group of people. We are only about four years in and the early returns from Victoria say the news is good. Cuts down on conflict and bullying. But that kind of program could look a little scary, right? Ideas zooming into our schools, telling kids it's ok to be gay, lesbian, trans, confused or questioning. It certainly frightened the mother of a year two girl at Overnewton Anglican Community College in Victoria. Lord knows, she was frightened enough to ring the principal, Jim Laussen, because of material she had read on the website of the Australian Christian Lobby. There was a time when Australian universities were at the forefront of social change. In 1963, a group of staff and students at the University of Melbourne played a decisive role in ending the White Australia Policy when they published their landmark manifesto calling for an end to Indigenous segregation. Nowadays, that old ideal of treating people as individuals rather than skin-deep categories has become a bit passe. As the five QUT students facing court for speaking out against their campus's racially designated study areas recently found out, today's universities are more interested in unwinding the progressive victories of yesterday than advancing them. Today's universities are more interested in unwinding the progressive victories of yesterday than advancing them, writes John Slater. Credit:Michele Mossop This is epitomized by the concept of the 'safe space' facilities created for the purpose of allowing students to seclude themselves from the world outside based on their sexuality, race or how many X chromosomes they happen to have. You'll find these enclaves of isolation at virtually every university in the country. QUT's vice-chancellor Owen Coaldrake has insisted that the indigenous-only space isn't 'segregation', but rather a way to "assist Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to succeed at university". Spotlight serves as a painful reminder of one of the darkest periods in Catholic Church history, where more than 200 priests and religious were accused of abusing minors and were reassigned in a cover-up. The movie, which won best picture at the Oscars in the US on Sunday, chronicles the Boston Globe's groundbreaking coverage of the clergy sexual abuse crisis in the archdiocese of Boston that would go on to win the paper a Pulitzer Prize in 2003. Pursuing priests: the crusading cast from Spotlight. Reflecting on the 10-year anniversary of the Globe's revelations, Boston Cardinal Sean O'Malley said that "the media helped make our church safer for children by raising up the issue of clergy sexual abuse and forcing us to deal with it." (Editor's note: The Globe's editor at the time was Martin Baron, now executive editor of the Washington Post.) And as New York Times columnist Ross Douthat observed in 2010: "The Catholic Church has always had enemies ... But Catholics and especially Catholic leaders, from the Vatican to the most far-flung diocese should welcome it, both as a spur to virtue and as a sign that their faith still matters, that their church still looms large over the affairs of men, and that the world still cares enough about Christianity to demand that Catholics live up to their own exacting standards." The Theatre of War by Bryan Doerries It's not often that you pick up a book about Greek tragedy that comes with blurbs from Peter Brook, the most highly regarded theatre director in the world, Frances McDormand, the Oscar-winning actress, and Andrew Solomon, the man who wrote a masterpiece about depression. Yet here they all are in a chorus of rhapsody for a funny-looking book which superimposes images from an Attic Greek vase on a GI's helmet. Why? Because in The Theatre of War, Bryan Doerries offers a truly extraordinary, a more or less spectacular, demonstration of how tragedy can do you good. How listening to actors recite the words of Sophocles round a table has led masses of veterans to confront their grief and their post-traumatic stress disorder at being the forlorn survivors of war. How prison officers and prisoners have seen the face of their own confinement in the plight of Aeschylus' Prometheus, and people have been helped to face the question of how to assist the dying by experiencing Women of Trachis. How a hurricane-devastated community has been able to come to grips with the horror of the whirlwind by witnessing an enactment of the Book of Job. Doerries has written a mad, transfigured, exhilaration of a book about how the stark words and terrible cries of plays from 5th century Athens can function as a therapy that allows people to look into the heart of suffering and come to terms with it by the process of articulating it. So this is a zealot's book, almost an evangelist's book, because it is not only a demonstration via translation of Doerries' own vivid and communicative versions of the power of the plays (and their contemporary application), but a dramatic account of how he persuades generals and prison governors and others to back his scheme to present (generally abridged) versions of his Greek tragedies as paradigms of how to cope with life. London: Kevin Rudd has described Leonardo DiCaprio as the "real deal on climate change" and praised the actor for using his first Oscar acceptance speech to urge global action on climate change. The former prime minister sent his congratulations to DiCaprio, who finally won his first Academy Award more than 20 years after first being nominated, early on Tuesday morning Australian time, and told Fairfax Media the actor was genuine on the issue. "Congrats Leo DiCaprio on Oscars win. About time," the former Labor leader said. "Inspiring speech calling for global co-operation on climate change," he said. Greenhouse gas emissions from Australia's biggest companies are on the rise. Eight of the top 10 largest polluters increased their greenhouse gas emissions during the past financial year, according to a new analysis. Eight of the top 10 largest polluters increased their greenhouse gas emissions during the past financial year. Credit:Fairfax Media Overall the federal government's Clean Energy Regulator says that reported direct emissions were up 2 per cent in the year to June 2015, when compared to the previous 12 months. An Australian Conservation Foundation (ACF) analysis of that data - which was released late on Friday - found that big energy players continue to dominate the top 10, prompting the green group to call for a government plan to close the dirtiest coal-fired power plants. There are no problems with the either the pace of the roll-out of the National Broadband Network nor its budget, Malcolm Turnbull told the Parliament on Monday, following publication by Fairfax Media of a leaked internal progress report suggesting multiple ongoing delays. The confidential internal progress assessment marked "for official use only", identified a series of construction problems within the complicated multi-technology project. These ranged from delays in connecting electricity to the node points in streets, to design hold-ups and other material or skills shortages. A government source scoffed at the problems, declaring many simply arose and were then resolved in a timely fashion within weeks. Time for me to wrap things up. What happened? the government announced wide ranging changes to media ownership laws including scrapping the number of types of media a proprietor can own; announced including scrapping the number of types of media a proprietor can own; a Senate inquiry has heard the government's proposed changes to electoral laws could face a High Court challenge ; has heard the could face a ; former prime minister Tony Abbott has urged Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull not to change negative gearing ; has urged not to change ; Liberal senator Cory Bernardi has been given a three month stint at the United Nations starting in September; and has been given a three month stint at the starting in September; and NSW deputy Labor leader Linda Burney has announced she will try and enter federal Parliament at the election. My thanks to Andrew Meares and Alex Ellinghausen and to you for reading and commenting. You can follow me on Facebook. Andrew, Alex and I will be back in the morning. We hope to see you then. Good night. Ballarat clerical abuse survivors say Australia's most senior Catholic is holding back on his knowledge of paedophile priests who sexually abused scores of children over decades. During his evidence to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse, Cardinal George Pell said he was not there to "defend the indefensible" and denied knowing about paedophile priests operating in the Ballarat diocese in the 1970s. He said the Catholic Church had made "enormous" mistakes in its handling of child sex crimes and had let victims down but was working to repair it. Australia's largest states have delayed for at least a year any action banning or restrictions on plastic shopping bags, a policy already in force across Australia's four smallest states and territories. Queensland and NSW were understood to have discussed working on a joint deal banning the common grey supermarket bags, already banned by South Australia, Tasmania and the territories. New Attorney-General Mark Speakman says he will be consultative but decisive. Credit:Jane Dyson But a meeting of Australia's state and federal environment Ministers at Taronga Zoo on Monday instead resolved to review options for a coordinated approach with Victoria to reducing the 50 million bags littered nationally each year. Objections from national retailers who complained about the cost of navigating different regulations across the states are believed to have scotched a bi-lateral deal. The NSW government is believed to have made action on the ban a second-order priority. A truck driver managed to free himself after his log truck rolled over on the Hume Highway near Bowning on Monday, police say. The semi-trailer rollover also caused about 600 litres of diesel to spill onto the road and forced the closure of one lane on the Hume Highway. A Tumut man has sustained injuries to his leg after rolling his truck on the Hume Highway. Credit:Jessica Cole Police said the driver from Tumut "incredibly" freed himself from the truck and was taken to Canberra Hospital suffering severe injuries to his lower right leg, the Yass Tribune reports. A nurse travelling in the opposite direction pulled over to render assistance. A building that partially collapsed on a main road Sydney's inner west overnight, forcing the evacuation of about 40 people from surrounding apartments, is being torn down. An excavator started knocking down the walls of the two-storey building on Liverpool Road in Enfield on Tuesday morning due to serious concerns about its structural integrity. Motorists have been warned to avoid Liverpool Road in Enfield throughout Tuesday morning's peak or expect lengthy delays while the operation takes place. Police and firefighters were first called to the building - which houses a hairdressing salon and an apartment - on Liverpool Road about 9.20pm to initial reports from residents that a car may have crashed into the building, and there was a strong smell of gas. Two people were seriously injured and trapped in their cars from a head-on collision on the Barton Highway on Monday. NSW police said they were called to the crash, near Murrumbateman, about 4.25pm. "The two drivers - thought to be an elderly female and a man aged in his 30s - were trapped in their vehicles for a period of time before being freed," police said in a statement. "They have both been taken Canberra Hospital for treatment to serious injuries." Police said the road was blocked while the drivers were cut from their cars, however, the traffic was clearing as of 6pm. As the state government prepares to cancel all fun in Queensland, potentially the most boring conference in the world has chosen Brisbane as its host city. The Institute of Internal Auditors will host the 2016 South Pacific and Asia Conference at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre from Sunday, bringing 600 of the regions top auditors to the city to paint the town red... or possibly black. Brisbane is about to host potentially the most boring conference in the world. Credit:123RF.com Guest speakers at party central include the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission's Grant Samuel AC, who is delivering the key note address at 8.55am sharp on Monday, Queensland's auditor general Andrew Greaves and, as is expected, several auditing experts. The conference includes three separate functions for those internal auditors who want to get their party on, but they appear to finish sensibly early. A flu outbreak at a Queensland nursing home is believed to be behind the deaths of three elderly residents and 60 residents and staff falling sick. Mercy Place in the inner Cairns suburb of Westcourt is in lockdown, as authorities work to contain the outbreak. Mercy Health Queensland manager Anita Ghose said the majority of those who have fallen ill since Sunday, February 14 - 36 residents and 24 staff - had tested positive to influenza B. "During this period, three residents have passed away," she said. The rescue helicopter has been deployed to retrieve a young girl who has been hit by a boat propeller while visiting Moreton Island. A spokeswoman for Queensland Ambulance said the girl, 14, got her hair caught in the boat propeller but managed to sustain only minor injuries. The rescue helicopter has been deployed to a girl who was struck by a boat propeller Credit:FILE PICTURE "At this stage the only reported injury is a laceration to the ear," the spokeswoman said. Police are investigating an alleged abduction in Far North Queensland, in which a man wandered out of bushland claiming he had been kidnapped, tortured, tied to a tree and left for dead. Maitland Chitty, 26, walked into tourist operator Hartley's Crocodile Adventures, about half way between Cairns and Port Douglas, on Monday morning, after travelling about seven kilometres barefoot through the bush. Dense forest near Hartley's Crocodile adventures, where a man stumbled out of the bush claiming he'd been abducted, bashed and tied up. Credit:Facebook The man claimed three people had taken him to bushland in remote Black Mountain on Saturday afternoon, after bashing him at a business in Cairns, forcing him into a car and driving him to various locations, where he was bashed. The trio is then alleged to have driven him to the remote inland spot, where two of the men tied him to a tree, tortured him, then left, allegedly leaving him tied to the tree. A man has pleaded guilty to his part in a vicious attack that left a Brisbane teenager in hospital. Travis Quinn Miller, 21, delivered a flurry of punches to 19-year-old Bailey Merz at a taxi rank in the nightclub precinct of Fortitude Valley on January 14. Alleged assault victim Bailey Merz with friends. Credit:Facebook Miller pleaded guilty in the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday to assault occasioning bodily harm whilst in company. A man suffered scalp injuries when he was hit by a piece of machinery at a construction site south of Brisbane. A Queensland Ambulance Service spokesman said a 58-year-old man had skin torn from his head and suffered a fractured shoulder and leg after he was hit by a hydraulic boom about 8am Monday morning. A man was rushed to hospital after skin was ripped from his head at a worksite at Logan. The incident occurred at a construction site on the corner of Mount Lindsey Highway and Park Ridge Road at Park Ridge, Logan. A Workplace Health and Safety Queensland officer said the man, a concrete pump worker, was pouring concrete at the time of the incident. Passersby performed CPR on a man critically injured in a peak hour crash in Brisbane's south on Monday morning, as they waited for emergency services to arrive, police said. The 52-year-old Wynnum West man remains in a critical condition in the Princess Alexandra Hospital following the crash, which occurred in Sunnybank about 7.30am. A 52-year-old man was critically injured in a crash in Sunnybank on Monday morning. Credit:Robert Shakespeare Queensland Police said in a statement the man was at the wheel of a car travelling east along McCullough Street, when it rear-ended the car in front, veered into the left lane, mounted a gutter and crashed into a tree. Two passersby performed CPR until paramedics arrived. Detectives are door-knocking suburban streets in Melbourne's outer north as they hunt for a masked intruder who sexually assaulted a 16-year-old girl in her own bed as her parents slept in the next room. Neighbours have expressed their shock over the random attack, after a man broke into a Roxburgh Park house just after 7am on Friday and assaulted the girl for 25 minutes before fleeing. Police have been reviewing CCTV footage and believe people in the area of Roycroft Road and Bluebird Way may have seen the man in the aftermath of the vicious attack. They are particularly calling for a woman who appears to have crossed paths with the offender to come forward and speak with police. Prominent restaurateur and arts patron Ronnie Di Stasio is in more hot water over allegations he assaulted and threatened a St Kilda resident outside his exclusive dining establishment Cafe Di Stasio. The alleged attack on January 28 has been referred to police, who are understood to have obtained closed circuit television footage of the incident, but have not laid charges. Ronnie Di Stasio, prominent restaurateur and arts patron. Credit:Penny Stephens According to a complaint forwarded to the City of Port Phillip Council, the altercation was sparked when Mr Di Stasio parked his car across a section of the Fitzroy Street footpath and obstructed pedestrians. "I informed him that he was parked illegally. He began abusing me verbally with a string of profanities, after which he pushed me physically. I told him I would call the council... He said, 'you can call the f...ing council, and the f...ing police, I don't give a f...'," the man claimed in the complaint letter to council. A West Australian planning body has identified big development approvals as a key 2017 election decider after the Supreme Court overturned approval for a South Perth high-rise. State-appointed development assessment panels have in recent years taken over councils' power to decide on all developments worth over $10 million developments in some cases controversial. Lumiere was 60 per cent sold within three weeks of its launch, highlighting demand for high-end apartments in Perth. The Supreme Court last week overturned a DAP approval of the 29-storey, $60 million Lumiere development on Mill Point Road, an apartment-and-commercial mix, on the appeal of two local residents neighbouring the site. But not all residents can bankroll a court challenge. Police are scouring the southern suburbs looking for a gunman who shot a 27-year-old man in the chest in South Lake on Monday night. Police say the injured man arrived at Fiona Stanley Hospital with a gunshot wound around 8.30pm where he remans in a stable condition. Police are searching for Michael Ivan McNeill is regards to a shooting in South Lake. The Tactical Response Group raided a home in Silkpod Gardens in the southern suburb looking for suspected gunman Michael Ivan McNeill. Police believe the 38-year-old could still be in possession of a firearm. He is described as being 173 centimetres tall, of medium build, light skinned with brown hair and brown eyes. A man who shot a stranger in the stomach during a fight over a set of mag wheels did not intentionally do it, a Perth court has heard. The District Court of Western Australia heard the victim and his brother went to a unit on Brighton Road, Scarborough, on the night of February 21 last year to retrieve some wheels he had loaned to his friend after the pair had had a falling out. A WA truck driver who fatally struck a tow truck worker who had stopped in an emergency lane has been jailed for 20 months. The victim was upset because his friend had called his grandmother, telling her he was "using drugs again". When the brothers knocked on the friend's door to ask for lock nuts, which they needed to remove the wheels from his car, a physical fight ensued. Australian pop duo The Veronicas have defended their decision to leave the stage at the Court Hotel after only 20 minutes saying the band thought that's what it was booked to do. Music-goers vented on social media after identical twin sisters Lisa and Jessica Origliasso walked off after only a handful of songs at the inner-city venue on Sunday night. The Veronicas say short gig at the Court Hotel was a mistake. Credit:Steven Chee The pub had been spruiking their Full Moon Party, which involved a 40-minute set with The Veronicas, but more than 70 peeved partygoers, who paid $42 for a ticket, blasted the band on the Court Hotel's Facebook page for disappearing halfway through their set. "Travelled from Busselton to Perth paid for fuel, hotel, ticket to full moon party just to see the veronicas you guys advertised 40 Min set and you only gave us 20 Min! Disgusting!! Poor form Court," one posted. A woman who bit a policewoman on the thigh and then hit her in the face in Fremantle three years ago has been sentenced to six months jail. Daniell Staskos was arrested in January, 2013, after she was involved in a heated argument with her boyfriend and had to be restrained by three officers. The injuries to the police officer. A policewoman was then bitten on the inner thigh and elbowed to the face by Ms Staskos. Ms Staskos was given the six-month sentence at the Fremantle Magistrates Court on Monday morning. Tehran: Iranian reformists appear to have won all 30 seats representing the nation's capital in parliament in a definitive rebuke to the hardliners opposing efforts to open the economy and co-operate with the West. In the first elections held since 2015's nuclear deal, none of Iran's three main political camps - reformists, conservatives and hardliners - is expected to win an outright majority in the 290-seat parliament, but early results indicate the best reformist showing in more than a decade. Iranians voted on Friday in parliamentary elections, the country's first since its landmark nuclear deal with world powers. Credit:Getty Images Moderate conservatives also gained seats, and if their tentative coalition with the reformists holds, they could end the domination of parliament by hardliners who were opposed to the nuclear deal. Tokyo: Hiromi Sogo has spent three decades telling Japanese women what to wear as the editor of a string of successful fashion titles. Her new task is to try to interest them in a drier topic: fiscal policy. Sogo, the editor-in-chief of luxury magazines Vingt-Cinq Ans and Richesse and once the head of the Japanese edition of Vogue, said she wondered whether there had been a mistake when she was contacted to take part in a Finance Ministry panel on how to rein in Japan's ballooning national debt. She's one of six female speakers set to address the topic to an audience of women in April. Finance Minister Taro Aso will be the only male speaker at the event. Hiromi Sogo, the editor-in-chief of Vingt-Cinq Ans and Richesse, will lecture on the ballooning national debt topic at a seminar for women in April. Credit:Bloomberg "To be honest, I was clueless about fiscal policy," Sogo, 52, said in an interview at the publisher's offices in Tokyo's fashionable Omotesando district. "But it's important to offer people a chance to find out about it. Women make up half the population and they need to think not only about the small unit of the household, but about what is happening in the country as a whole." Japan's government debt is about 2.5 times the size of its economy and continues to grow. Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia's former premier Mahathir Mohamad said on Monday he is quitting the ruling United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) party, as it is being seen as "supporting corruption" under Prime Minister Najib Razak's leadership. Dr Mahathir, Malaysia's longest-serving leader, remains a highly respected and influential figure and has become the fiercest critic of Mr Najib, who is facing pressure over a graft scandal surrounding state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad at his news conference on Monday. Credit:AP "I won't call it UMNO anymore, this is Najib's party," Dr Mahathir told reports at a press conference. "I feel embarrassed that I am associated with a party that is seen as supporting corruption - it had caused me to feel ashamed." Latest News NAB reveals six market megatrends for brokers More opportunities for investors, first home buyers Firstmac shifts up a gear on auto loans National sales manager appointed to pursue growing market National Australia Bank ( NAB ) has announced the winner of its $100,000 home improvement promotion.Queensland broker customer Haydn Briggs was announced as the winner, taking home the $100,000 cash prize. The competition was open to all NAB customers who had applied for an owner-occupier NAB home loan between 17 August 2015 and 31 December 2015.After renting for most of his life, Briggs, a disability support worker, recently bought his first owner-occupier home in Warwick after his three adult children moved to Brisbane.I was absolutely shocked when my broker, John Weir, from Finance World, rang me with the news. Im extremely grateful to NAB for easing my financial worries, Briggs said.Commenting on the win, Steve Kane, general manager of NAB Broker said the competition was another example of how the major lender gives back to its customers.NAB is committed to supporting customers, whether through retail branches or via our valued broker network. I couldnt be happier that this money has gone to such a deserving recipient, Kane said. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams Dont call her a quack she only deals in meows and woofs. A Windsor Terrace vet is using acupuncture and medicinal herbs to treat ailing borough pussies and pooches. The alternative cures are controversial in the animal-healing world, but the dog doctor claims she has seen enough proof in her own surgery to have faith that they work. I get really excited about it because I know it works, said Dr. Suzy Ryan, who operates out of the newly reopened Brooklyn Heights Veterinary Hospital on Cranberry Street and Alison Animal Hospital in Windsor Terrace. Ryan a licensed veterinarian who learned her less-conventional methods from a school dedicated to Chinese medicine for animals in Florida has been feeding pets herbs and sticking tiny needles in their scalps and for a year and a half, and says they are an increasingly popular option for owners who have exhausted conventional drugs and surgeries. The science behind the fauna folk remedies are hotly debated several studies have found little evidence that they work, but a growing number of vets believe they do, and Ryans clients say they are converts, too. One human says she brought in her 13-year-old German Shepherd with a muscle injury last year, expecting shed have to put her beloved pet down. Instead, Ryan suggested acupuncture and she was flabbergasted when her canine got better. I just cant shut up about it, said Kensington resident Maria Sandomenico, who still brings her dog Madra in for restorative jabs twice a month. I wasnt expecting my dog to still be around at this point. In another act of dog, Ryan says she treated a huge tumor in a hounds mouth with herbs when all else had failed, and even she was astounded when the growth disappeared within months. I just couldnt believe it, she said. But the vet says she prefers a mix of the holistic and realistic one of her pup patients takes a combination of calming herbs and Prozac to deal with anxiety. The four-legged folk healing doesnt come cheap Ryan charges at least $85 for each acupuncture session but she says Brooklynites are forming closer bonds with their furballs these days, and they are willing to shell out for more than just a patch-up when things go wrong. Sign up for our amNY Sports email newsletter to get insights and game coverage for your favorite teams Brooklyn Bridge Park is flush with cash and doesnt need to build any more luxury housing to finance its waterfront green space, according to a series of new reports released on Monday. The reports from real-estate appraisers and marine engineers claim the park will reap some $800 million in extra moolah over the next 50 years, proving it doesnt need to construct its controversial planned towers at Pier 6 or any other buildings according to the local activists who commissioned the studies. These reports cast significant doubt on whether any development at Pier 6 is necessary for Brooklyn Bridge Park Corporation to achieve its financial objectives, says a letter from the leaders of civic group the Brooklyn Heights Association, and activist groups People for Green Space and Brooklyn Bridge Park Defense Fund to the parks board of directors. Parks honchos say they need to build high-rises on the lot to pay for preventative maintenance of the 1950s timber piles that hold the pier up but are being slowly eaten away by tiny crustaceans called marine borers a plan its own engineering experts say will save money in the long run. But the new analysis by marine engineering outfit Goldenrod Blue Associates says that is a waste of time and money it could save $90 million by tackling the borers with regular inspections like those conducted on the Lake Pontchartrain bridges in Louisiana, which are also held up with timber pillars, the firm says. The study also claims a July 2015 report on the parks finances used a model inconsistent with Department of Finance methodology to determine its revenue for the next half-century, resulting in estimates that vastly undervalue its future spending money. The park will haul in $22.5 million annually from the stores, office buildings, hotel, and housing it has already built, rather than the $13.5 million it is predicting, according to appraiser Rosin and Associates. And it will become more apparent the park is rolling in dough when the tax revenue comes in next year, claims an activist and financial analyst who assessed the studies. He claims projections based on the Rosen report show the open space will have some $800 million in cash to splash over the next 50 years. It will be very obvious that theres no need to develop Pier 6, said Henry Richmond, who lives in a condominium in the park and is head of the People for Green Space Foundation. Its going to be undeniable the park is going to generate excess amounts of money. A rep for the park says it is still looking at the reports, but maintains that it needs to build at Pier 6 to stop the docks from disappearing down the guts of tiny bugs. It also stands by its projections, which she says are based on the taxes of condominium buildings in the area surrounding the park an approach the Department of Finances doesnt take when looking into returns. While some may never accept it, weve exhaustively demonstrated that the Pier 6 project is essential to the parks long-term financial stability, said spokeswoman Belinda Cape, noting the marine engineering expert the activists hired is not an expert in wood pilings. To put the financial future of a park enjoyed by millions at risk as these groups advocate is simply unacceptable. Park honchos are currently awaiting approval for construction on towers from the Empire State Development a quasi-government state agency in charge of overseeing development in the park though it has stalled its vote following locals objections, according to a Wall Street Journal report. For more information Those interested are asked to email the Victim Services Unit Coordinator at mtesta@broomfield.org or call 303-438-6429. Broomfield police are seeking volunteers to work as victim advocates people who help victims and witnesses of crime or traumatic situations. This position requires a caring, articulate, sensitive individual with the ability to maintain good rapport with victims, patrol officers, outside agencies, and the public, Maureen Testa, victim services coordinator, said in an email. The position also requires an individual who is a good listener. The Victim Services Unit provides assistance and support to victims in trauma from a violent crime, death, fire or other traumatic incident. Advocates can assist crime victims and witnesses by providing support as they transition through their criminal justice process as well as helping them understand their rights as crime victims, according to the organizations webpage. The initial shock following a crime, sudden death, or other trauma can be a harsh and painful reality for everyone involved, Testa said, and victims may experience many problems that the Broomfield Victim Services Unit can help a victim address through emotional support, assistance and advocacy. Volunteers need a valid drivers license and must be willing to submit and pass a background check. Those who apply need to be 21 or older. Applicants must also be willing to attend a 40-hour victim advocate training after theyre accepted into the program, she said. Volunteers are on-call a minimum of four 12-hour shifts per month to respond to victims during a crime or critical incident. They are also asked to attend monthly evening meetings. Currently the program has 20 volunteer advocates, Testa said, but the department would like to have four to six additional volunteers. Calls can include domestic violence, assault, robbery, sex assault, child sexual assault, child abuse, or traumatic incidents such as deaths, fires, or traffic accidents, Testa said. Advocates are there provide emotional support, referrals to community assistance programs or agencies. They assist victims or witnesses with completing applications for crime victim compensation, explaining their rights as a crime victim and by updating them on the status of their case. A victim advocate can assist a victim or witness immediately after the crime, assuring that the victim is treated with respect and dignity, and assisting the victim with the first steps of regaining physical and emotional well-being, Testa said. Jennifer Rios: 303-473-1361, riosj@broomfieldenterprise.com or Twitter.com/Jennifer_Rios Business recognized for 2015 Corporate Citizenship Award Ball Corporation Broomfield SBDC Business of the Year Award Key Results, LLC Emerging Business of the Year Award Mr. Big Event Rentals Ambassadors of the Year Alan Teague, Packaging & Promotions John Waters, Your Castle Real Estate Instead of accepting an award from the Broomfield Chamber of Commerce, Dan Herrmann was spending time with his son the person who inspired him to start his own business. Herrmann, owner of Mr. Big Event Rentals, had a job at Nabisco, with good pay and benefits, but didnt want to miss out on what was important to his family. Marketing director Katrina Jansen read his acceptance speech for the chambers Emerging Business of the Year award at Fridays annual meeting. This year was the first time the meeting included a luncheon, which was hosted at the Renaissance Boulder Flatiron Hotel in Broomfield. Though I can honestly say that I havent always reacted this way, at times putting business first, unfortunately there has to be some trade off for success, Jansen read. It took me a few years to get my company built up the point where I could quit my main job and start working for myself full time, Herrmann wrote in his speech. Through all the headaches and sweat it was and continues to be the best thing I could have ever done. The chamber celebrated last years accomplishments and announced new developments, including roundtable seminars and a new chamber position director of business and economic development. Chamber President Jennifer Kerr said the position, which has been open two weeks, has drawn 100 applicants. The first roundtable, one that focused on manufacturers and was led by Bob Bolak, president and CEO of Sandler Training, were well received with requests to do the same for restaurants and health care. Kerr also gave updates on Broomfields satellite location for the North Metro Denver Small Business Development Center, which came about as a partnership between the chamber, Front Range Community College and the City and County of Broomfield. Since it opened in 2012 the location has helped 18 new businesses launch, and created and retained more than 73 jobs. And the mayors favorite statistic 100 percent of the business that have been served through the chamber and the North Metro Denver Small Business Development Center are still in business today, Kerr said. The projected capital investment from those business is over $2 million, she said. In 2015 we launched a new brand and direction that we will continue to expand upon in 2016 Access Broomfield Chamber, Kerr said. We merged all the programs, benefits, services and events between the chamber and the Business Resource Center to continue to be a one-stop shop to create, sustain and expand business in the Broomfield area. Keynote speaker Patricia Silverstein, president and chief economist of Development Research Partners, started her speech by admitting she was a number cruncher. She brought charts showing how North Metro Denver compared to competitors across the nation, including Austin, Dallas, Portland, Atlanta and Salt Lake City. Jennifer Rios: 303-473-1361, riosj@broomfieldenterprise.com or Twitter.com/Jennifer_Rios A Broomfield man was sentenced to 30 years to life in prison for sexually assaulting two girls. Last month, a jury found Terry Verge guilty of eight counts of sexual assault on a child, allegations that included force, threats and a pattern of abuse. Two of the counts were aggravated assault. Each count carries 15 years, but the aggravated counts are consecutive, while the others are concurrent. What mostly concerns me is the deplorable and disgusting and destructive conduct that these girls had to suffer at your hands, District Judge Edward Moss said. The jury didnt believe any of your explanations or excuses and I certainly concur in their view of this case. The Broomfield Enterprise does not name, or otherwise identify, victims of sexual assaults. The girls mother, who was the only family member to address the court, said she forgave Verge for what he has done. She cried as she talked about the people who he would leave behind when he went to prison. This has been the hardest thing to accept, she said. Both the victims family and defendants family were present in the courtroom. Verge, 35, also addressed the court before his sentence was announced. Id just like to say I place my life in your hands and I ask for mercy, Verge told the judge. I know justice will prevail and God will place me where Im needed. Verges maximum sentence will be determined by the Colorado Department of Corrections. The incidents were reported by the girls to their mother and to the Broomfield Police Department in July 2014. According to the arrest affidavit, the abuse had been going on for at least one year prior to being reported. Defense attorney Shaun Kaufman offered a letter from Verge to be filed with the court. On behalf of his client, Kaufman told the court Verge was someone who will benefit from a lifestyle of belief or religion, and that he has moved toward embracing his faith a move that is not only great socially and ethically, but which has had an effect on his conduct and how he acts, Kaufman said. He asked Moss to balance the nature of the conviction with the probability for similar offenses. Kaufman asked the judge to consider the strength of Verges family and community support, that children in the courtroom stand by him and reported nothing of this nature and that Verge was employed full-time at the time of his arrest and was providing for his family. Kaufman also pointed to the parenting techniques and skills Verge tried to employ and that Verge is at a place where he is speaking words of denial less fervently and less frequently. In the past he denied involvement in the crime and acted as if there was no problem. It seeps in slowly like water in a big piece of granite, Kaufman said about that acceptance in sex offender cases. It takes a while. Amy Petri, with the District Attorneys Office, said she found it frustrating that Verge has taken no accountability for the assaults. Verge admitted to selling crack, Petri said, which does not mean he had a full-time job. Mr. Verge should go to prison for the rest of his life for employing those techniques and skills, Petri said. Petri pointed to Verges history of assault going back to when he was a juvenile. The abuse in this case was accompanied by threats that he would harm the girls if they told anybody or asked for help, Petri said. The trial and the facts that came out in the trial were quite disturbing, Moss said. The girls put their trust in you in you but then you violated that trust and committed various sexual acts on both children over a long period of time. It wasnt until you left the home that the children felt secure enough to disclose what had been going on, Moss said. Prosecutors asked for 14 days to file any restitution or bill of costs request in this case. Verge will need to register as a sex offender if he ever is released. Jennifer Rios: 303-473-1361, riosj@broomfieldenterprise.com or Twitter.com/Jennifer_Rios 1st Congressional District race sees Norcross, Gustafson rematch U.S. Rep. Donald Norcross, D-1, is looking to repeat his win two years ago over Republican Claire Gustafson when voters turn out this November. Vistara will reconfigure its Airbus A320 aircraft reducing the premium class seating and increasing overall number of seats from 148 to 158 seats. The changes are being carried in view of poor demand for business and premium economy seating on certain routes in the network and the airline management is hopeful that the changes are "better aligned to market demand and customer needs." Currently Vistara Airbus A320 aircraft have a configuration of 16 business class seats +36 premium economy seats and +96 economy class seats. Under the new configuration business class seats are being halved to 8 while premium economy seats will be reduced to 24. The economy seating will increase to 126 and thus overall number of seats will increase to 158 seats. The reconfiguration exercise will be completed in two phases in April and July 2016. The first retrofitted aircraft will be deployed between Delhi and Hyderabad from April 2016, followed by other routes which will be announced in due course. All nine aircraft are expected to be reconfigured by 15 July 2016. Future new aircraft deliveries, the first of which is expected in Q2 of CY2016, will be also have the revised seating configuration. Commenting on the airline's new configuration, Vistara CEO, Phee Teik Yeoh said, "The change in our cabin configuration is a result of extensive research of the changing market environment and customer expectations. Being a young and nimble airline, we were able to adjust quickly to meet the evolving needs of the market and our customers. We remain committed to our pioneering three class product offering and will continue to provide a personalised and differentiated flying experience to all our customers." A total of Rs 17408 cr allocated to WCD Ministry in the budget 2016-17 . . Allocation for setting up One Stop Centres for Women stepped up substantially to Rs 75 cr, Rs 500 cr for Nirbhaya Fund in the budget. . The Economic Survey for 2016-17 states that investment in maternal and child nutrition is a must for the country to capitalize on the demographic dividend. Taking this forward, the Budget for 2016-17 announced by the Union Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitley, has provided enhanced budgetary support for critical areas where schemes of the Ministry of Women and Child Development are operational particularly for providing supplementary nutrition as well as protection for women and children. . . As per the Expenditure Statement, the total budget allocation for 2016-17 stands at Rs. 17,408 crores. A total amount of Rs. 15,860 crores has been provided for the development of children which includes additional funds to the tune of Rs. 415 crores and Rs. 300 crores respectively under the World Bank assisted strengthening programme for ICDS and the National Nutrition Mission. Additional funds have also been provided for setting up of the Food and Nutrition laboratories. Both these will ultimately provide support to the Ministrys effort to fight child malnutrition in the country. . . The Beti Bachao Beti Padhao budget has been enhanced from Rs. 75 crores (RE) to Rs. 100 crores in 2016-17. Similarly, the allocation for establishment of shelter homes for women has been increased from Rs. 52 crores (RE) in 2015-16 to Rs. 100 crores in 2016-17. The allocation for establishment of One Stop Centres has been increased by almost 500%, from Rs 13 crores to Rs 75 crores. The Finance Ministry has also allocated an amount of Rs. 500 crores to be transferred into the Nirbhaya Fund for meeting requirements for additional schemes for womens safety. . . With these measures, it is expected that the Ministry will be able to effectively take forward the agenda of development of women and children. . . Budget is Developmental and Transformational : Javadekar . . Environment Ministers Reaction to Union Budget 2016-17 . . Minister of State (Independent Charge) of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, Shri Prakash Javadekar, has said that Union Budget 2016-17 is a developmental and transformational Budget. Making his comments soon after the Budget was presented in Parliament here today, Shri Javadekar said that the Budget is completely devoted to the upliftment of the poor, rural development, welfare of farmers and empowerment of the poor. . . The following is the text of the Environment Ministers comment on Union Budget 2016-17: . . This Budget is completely devoted to the upliftment of the poor, rural development, welfare of farmers and empowerment of the poor. The rural areas will be provided by 24x7 electricity, all weather roads and water. Every Gram Panchayat will get Rs.80 lakh for developmental work. It is affordable housing for the poor, rise of income, employment generation through MNREGA and other schemes and healthcare upto Rs. 1 lakh free of cost. This is a big gift for the poor. For the farmer, tackling the agricultural distress, doubling the farm income in five years, comprehensive insurance taking care of individual losses, dairy government is a rejuvenation package for agriculture. . . For jawans, it is OROP and for Naujawan (youth), it is employment and entrepreneurship incentivisation. We are investing Rs 2 lakh crore in infrastructure in roads, rail, ports and airports. This is a real developmental and transformational Budget, which reflects the ideology and commitment of the Prime Minister. Finance Minister deserves real credit for all the hard work to bring this transformational Budget." . . Indo-Seychelles Joint Training 'Ex Lamitye' concludes . . Exercise Lamitye 2016, seventh in the series of Indo-Seychelles Joint Training Exercises, was conducted from 15 to 28 February 2016 at Victoria, Mahe Island, Seychelles with an aim to improve interoperability between both Armies in jointly fighting Counter Insurgency / Counter Terrorism. The Indian contingent comprised of an infantry platoon and representatives from the Special Forces. The Seychelles Peoples Defence Forces (SPDF) was represented by the Tazar (Special Forces Unit) and Seychelles Infantry. A total of 52 personnel from the SPDF took part in the exercise, including 20 Tazar (Special Forces Unit) personnel. Exercise Lamitye meaning Friendship in Creole has been a bridge between the Armed Forces of India and SPDF since 2001. Focused on interoperability in drills pertaining to Counter Insurgency & Counter Terrorism, a number of activities and exercises were conducted during the joint training. . . Exercise Sea Hunt, was an apt culmination , wherein Cordon & Search operations were enmeshed with hostage rescue operations in an Anti-Piracy setting at Cape Ternay, with realistic orchestration of events extending over two days in an urban insurgency environment. . . Brigadier Leopold Payet, Chief of Seychelles Defence Forces, H.E. Mr. Sanjay Panda, High Commissioner of India to Seychelles, Lieutenant Colonel Gudur, Military Attache, High Commission of India to Seychelles and Observer Delegation from Indian Army consisting of senior officers were present during the closing ceremony held on 29 February 2016. Senior military Commanders after a detailed briefing and interaction with troops expressed their satisfaction on the level of synergy and interoperability achieved between the two contingents. . . The officers and soldiers of SPDF were highly appreciative of the high standards of training and operational capability of the Indian Army. The joint training was an ideal platform for fostering jointmanship and interoperability between the defence forces of both the countries. . . Col Rohan Anand, SM PRO (Army) Simplification and Rationalization of Taxation . . While presenting the General Budget 2016-17 in Lok Sabha today, the Union Finance Minister Shri Arun Jaitley said that the Government has already accepted many recommendations of Tax Administration Reform Committee. He further proposed to accept a number of recommendations of Justice Easwar Committee in Budget 2016-17. . . In order to reduce multiplicity of taxes, associated cascading and to reduce cost of collection, abolition 13 cesses, levied by various Ministries in which revenue collection is less than Rs.50 crore in a year, is proposed. . . Measures to rationalize TDS provisions for Income Tax have been proposed to improve cash flow position of small tax payers who get their funds blocked due to current TDS provisions. Also, Non-residents without PAN are currently subjected to a higher rate of TDS, however with amendment to relevant provision will allow that on furnishing of alternative documents, such higher rate will not apply. The facility for revision of return hitherto available to service tax assesses only will be extended to Central Excise assesses also. . . Additional options for reversal of input tax credits with respect to non-taxable services provided by banking companies and financial institutions, including NBFCs, by way of extending deposits, loans and advances are proposed in Budget 2016-17. . . Government of India has taken steps to reduce the cargo release time and transaction costs of EXIM trade. Shri Jaitley also proposed to amend the Customs Act so as to provide for deferred payment of customs duties for importers and exporters with proven track record. . . Indian Customs Single Window Project would be implemented at major ports and airports starting from beginning of next financial year. Also, customs baggage for international passengers are simplified as filing of baggage declaration will be required only for those passengers who carry dutiable goods. . . Visa on Arrival for Japanese nationals from tomorrow . . As announced by the Prime Minister, the Visa on Arrival for Japanese nationals is being launched from tomorrow i.e. 1st March, 2016. This facility will be available at six airports viz. Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bangalore and Hyderabad. This facility can be availed for the purposes of business, tourism, conference and medical. Validity of this visa after entry will be for a period of 30 days. . . About 1.80 lakh Japanese nationals visit India every year on various kinds of visas. Business and Tourist Visas constitute around 78% of these. On an average 600 Japanese nationals arrive at Delhi Airport daily. It is expected that extension of this facility to Japanese nationals will further strengthen the business and tourism ties between the two countries. . . Detailed circulars pertaining to this subject have already been put on MHAs website. . . During the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Mr Shinzo Abe to India during December last year, the Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi had announced that India will extend 'Visa on arrival' to Japanese citizens from 1st March 2016. . . ended lower on Monday amid a volatile trading session after weak global cues offset a Budget that maintained the path to fiscal prudence and growth while higher allocations to the rural sector sought to boost incomes of the poor and the underpriviledged. The S&P BSE Sensex ended down 152 points at 23,002 and the Nifty50 ended down 43 points at 6,987. In the broader market, the BSE Midcap and Smallcap index ended flat. Market breadth ended negative with 1,391 losers and 1090 gainers. Union Budget 2016 has struck a fine balance between fiscal prudence and providing growth boosters to the economy. The Budget is leaning more towards rural consumption, which in light of consecutive bad monsoons steps will bolster the India consumption story which is reliant on rural consumption. As expected, the Budget has laid emphasis on infrastructure especially roads, it is also about higher taxation for the elite class and effective utilization of the same proceeds towards the growth and development story of India," says Kamlesh Rao, CEO, Kotak Securities. BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS The Budget has allocated Rs 25,000 crore towards their recapitalisation of state-owned banks in the next fiscal. Infrastructure outlay is at Rs 2.21 lakh crore for 2016-17 with road and rail taking up most of the allocation at Rs 2.18 lakh crore. In an effort to boost farmers income the Budget has proposed allocation of nearly Rs 36,000 crore for the farm sector while raising agri-credit target to Rs 9 lakh crore next fiscal. An additional 1% tax on luxury cars above Rs 10 lakh was imposed in the Union Budget today. The Budget also imposed an additional infrastructure cess of 1% on small petrol cars and a 2.5% cess on diesel cars. Anil Chopra - Group CEO & Director, Bajaj Capital adds,Union Budget is an annual exercise with the main objective of giving a direction to country's economy. This year's Budget tabled today in the Parliament has cheered middle classes or the common man with quite a few announcements. Every taxpayer whose annual income is below Rs.5 lacs will get an additional tax rebate of Rs.3,000 U/s 87A. In the last Budget, this marginal relief was announced and the amount was restricted to Rs.2,000 per individual. Now this rebate has been enhanced to Rs.5,000/- This rebate is available to all taxpayers whether salaried or business or self-employed." The tobacco industry has always been a revenue generator with increase in excise duties. Excise duties on various tobacco products other than beedi have been raised by about 10%-15%. Telecom companies will have to cough up more in taxes as transfer of air waves will be declared a service. Spectrum or air waves have now been identified as a "tangible asset" and as a result a service tax of 14.5% will be levied on all spectrum acquired through auctions or from other players. The FM has made Employee Provident Fund (EFP) and National Pension Scheme (NPS) withdrawals on retirement partially taxable. This essentially means when you withdraw from EPF, the 60 per cent of the corpus will attract tax and the remaining 40 per cent will not. In case of NPS, 60 per cent of the corpus will be taxed and the remaining 40 per cent will need to be put in an annuity fund. The Budget has imposed 10% tax on dividend for those individuals whose dividend income exceeds Rs 10 lakhs. The tax exemption for house rent allowance has been raised to Rs 60,000 from the current Rs 24,000-level.. . IMPACT ON STOCKS The major draggers of the benchmark indices were IT exporters with losses in Infosys and TCS contributing the most to the decline. Infosys ended down 3.3% while TCS closed 1.5% lower and Wipro fell 2.2%. State-owned oil exploration major was the top Sensex loser which ended nearly 10% lower. Passenger car major Maruti Suzuki ended nearly 5% lower after the Budget proposed to levy an infrastructure cess of 1% on small petrol, LPG, CNG cars, 2.5% on diesel cars of certain capacity and 4% on other higher engine capacity vehicles and SUVs. Among others, Tata Motors eased 0.7% while Bajaj Auto and Hero MotoCorp ended down 1.6%-2.2% each. Larsen Toubro eased nearly 3% despite a higher infrastructure outlay while BHEL ended down 4.2%. In the roads sector, IRB Infrastructure ended up 1.4%. Other Sensex losers include, Hindustan Unilever and Sun Pharma among others. Despite increase in excise duty ITC rebounded from intra-day lows to end 1.7% higher. PSU bank shares ended mixed after allocation of Rs 25,000 crore towards recapitalisation. SBI ended up 1.4% while Bank of Baroda, Punjab National Bank ended lower. Private banks also ended mixed with ICICI Bank and HDFC Bank gaining 1.3%-2.8% each while Axis Bank ended down 2.8%. Other gainers include, Reliance Industries, Lupin and Dr Reddy's Labs among others. GLOBAL MARKETS Asian stocks ended lower with Chinese shares falling the most. The People's Bank of China (PBoC) set the yuan at 6.5452 to USD 1.0, down 0.17 percent from Friday, as per the China Foreign Exchange Trade System. The benchmark Shanghai Composite ended down 3%, Hang Seng eased 1.3% and Japan's Nikkei ended down 1%. European shares edged lower after the meeting of the leaders of the G20 group of industrialised nations did not announce any plans to boost economic growth. The CAC-40, DAX and FTSE-100 were down 0.6%-1% each. At least three policemen were killed and more than 10 civilians injured in a blast in Afghanistan's southern Helmand province. The incident took place in Lashkargah the capital of the province after a police vehicle struck a roadside mine, reports TOLO News. Officials at the hospital confirmed that the bodies of two police men had been taken to the hospital but they reported 11 civilians were injured. Local officials confirmed the blast but did not provide details about casualties. The Taliban has claimed responsibility for this explosion. proposals for fiscal 2016-17 will be announced after noon on Monday, and all eyes are on Finance Minister Arun Jaitley and what he holds in store for the common man and the country as a whole. The recently announced Economic Survey has indicated positive forward movement and there is an expectation in the general public that some of its key and populist features will be reflected in 2016-17 Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 The NDA government will be completing two years in office in May this year, which is pretty much close to the half-way stage electorally, and therefore in that light, 2016-17 has to be seen as crucial for its leaders. According to some experts, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has himself scrutinized the smaller details of the budget and issued implementable recommendations to the finance ministry. Budget 2016-17 is being introduced at a time when the government is being repeatedly cornered and criticised by the opposition and other dissenting groups. Therefore, it will be Jaitley's objective to live up to the challenges being posed to the Centre in the presence of the prime minister. The Economic Survey also indicated that the subsidy given to the rich can be removed in the upcoming budget. As per the survey there are many government policies that benefit both the poor and the rich. In most cases, these benefits are in form of government subsidies that account for more than Rs 1lakh crore. According to the survey, more than the poor, the rich are benefiting from these policies and the LPG subsidy is the most misused, where a Rs 40,000 crore burden is on the government. Similarly, there is a Rs 37,000 crore subsidy on electricity, Rs 12,000 crore subsidy on public provident fund, Rs 5,500 crore subsidy on kerosene, Rs. 4000 crore subsidy on gold, Rs. 3600 crore subsidy on rail fares and around Rs750 crore subsidy in aviation turbine fuel), to which the rich have access to. It is believed that the personal income tax slab can be raised from Rs 2.5 lakh to Rs 2.90 lakh. Cheaper home loans and a possible increase in service tax are likely to be announced. The rebate in home loan interest can also be in the range of Rs 3 lakh. Good news is likely to come for irrigation, rural, MNREGA and DBT in the upcoming budget. The increase in the minimum support price for foodgrains may also be announced and a rebate in corporate tax could be declared. New plans for investment and encouragement for investment in stocks are also on the cards. Irregular rainfall for the past two years has been a worrying factor for the government as well as the farming community. There is a possibility therefore of the government introducing out-of-the-box policies aimed at greater investment in the agriculture and allied sectors. Assessments of past economic surveys have shown agriculture and mining sectors receiving the lowest investment. Planning Commission Chairman Arvind Panagariya has said that Budget 2016-17 could give a major boost to the rural . New policies for small scale businesses are also in the offing and it is possible that there could be a big announcement for this sector and those involved with it. Prime Minister Modi, through his various radio and political addresses, expressed his concern for the poor and needy of the country, and therefore, we may see Budget 2016-17 showing more care for the artisans, traders and professionals. From the business perspective, the government's "Make in India" initiative is being seen as critical from the ease of doing business with India point of view. There is a feeling that there is a need for change in the mindset of the tax department to facilitate business instead of playing a restrictive role. According to experts, investment in infrastructure, rail and roads will speed up industrial production. These three things together can easily push GDP to over 7%. Non-performing assets of banks have been on the higher side for some time, and there is view that bank operations are in a state of decay because of this. The government has announced capital infusion worth Rs 70,000 crore to banks and by fiscal 2019-20, these banks will require a financial capital of at least Rs 1.8 lakh crore. It is also being said that the FDI limit in public sector banks can be increased from 20% to 49% so that they can compete with private banks. Currently, the limit is 74% for private sector banks. The government is facing criticism over the management of the nation's universities. Higher education has by and large been bereft of investment despite Jaitley promising an allocation of Rs 1000 crore, five new IITs and IIMs. New Delhi, Feb.29 (ANI): Budget proposals for fiscal 2016-17 will be announced after noon on Monday, and all eyes are on Finance Minister and what he holds in store for the common man and the country as a whole. The recently announced Economic Survey has indicated positive forward movement and there is an expectation in the general public that some of its key and populist features will be reflected in Budget 2016-17 The NDA government will be completing two years in office in May this year, which is pretty much close to the half-way stage electorally, and therefore in that light, Budget 2016-17 has to be seen as crucial for its leaders. According to some experts, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has himself scrutinized the smaller details of the budget and issued implementable recommendations to the finance ministry. Budget 2016-17 is being introduced at a time when the government is being repeatedly cornered and criticised by the opposition and other dissenting groups. Therefore, it will be Jaitley's objective to live up to the challenges being posed to the Centre in the presence of the prime minister. The Economic Survey also indicated that the subsidy given to the rich can be removed in the upcoming budget. As per the survey there are many government policies that benefit both the poor and the rich. In most cases, these benefits are in form of government subsidies that account for more than Rs.one lakh crore. According to the survey, more than the poor, the rich are benefiting from these policies and the LPG subsidy is the most misused, where a Rs.40000 crore burden is on the government. Similarly, there is a Rs 37000 crore subsidy on electricity, Rs 12,000 crore subsidy on public provident fund, Rs 5,500 crore subsidy on kerosene, Rs. 4000 crore subsidy on gold, Rs. 3600 crore subsidy on rail fares and around 750 crore subsidy in aviation turbine fuel), to which the rich have access to. It is believed that the personal income tax slab can be raised from 2.5 lakh rupees to 2.90 lakh rupees. Cheaper home loans and a possible increase in service tax are likely to be announced. The rebate in home loan interest can also be in the range of Rs.3 lakh. Good news is likely to come for irrigation, rural, MNREGA and DBT in the upcoming budget. The increase in the minimum support price for foodgrains may also be announced and a rebate in corporate tax could be declared. New plans for investment and encouragement for investment in stocks are also on the cards. Irregular rainfall for the past two years has been a worrying factor for the government as well as the farming community. There is a possibility therefore of the government introducing out-of-the-box policies aimed at greater investment in the agriculture and allied sectors. Assessments of past economic surveys have shown agriculture and mining sectors receiving the lowest investment. Planning Commission Chairman Arvind Panagariya has said that Budget 2016-17 could give a major boost to the rural economy. New policies for small scale businesses are also in the offing and it is possible that there could be a big announcement for this sector and those involved with it. Prime Minister Modi, through his various radio and political addresses, expressed his concern for the poor and needy of the country, and therefore, we may see Budget 2016-17 showing more care for the artisans, traders and professionals. From the perspective, the government's "Make in India" initiative is being seen as critical from the ease of doing with India point of view. There is a feeling that there is a need for change in the mindset of the tax department to facilitate instead of playing a restrictive role. According to experts, investment in infrastructure, rail and roads will speed up industrial production. These three things together can easily push GDP to over 7 percent. Non-performing assets of banks have been on the higher side for some time, and there is view that bank operations are in a state of decay because of this. The government has announced capital infusion worth Rs.70000 crore to banks and by fiscal 2019-20, these banks will require a financial capital of at least Rs.1.8 lakh crore. It is also being said that the FDI limit in public sector banks can be increased from 20 percent to 49 percent so that they can compete with private banks. Currently, the limit is 74 per cent for private sector banks. The government is facing criticism over the management of the nation's universities. Higher education has by and large been bereft of investment despite Jaitley promising an allocation of Rs.1000 crore, five new IITs and IIMs. (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.) Jean Lebel, President of Canada's International Development Research Centre and His Excellency Nadir Patel, High Commissioner of Canada to India on Monday announced a new initiative to help Nepali communities rebuild following the 7.8 magnitude earthquake that hit the country in April 2015. This 1.2 million USD investment will restore housing, public buildings, and infrastructure, as well as promote better mitigation and management for future natural disasters. This initiative contributes to wider Government of Canada reconstruction efforts in Nepal. Working with a local partner, the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD), this partnership will support rehabilitation and reconstruction activities in Dhungentar ward. This initiative will strengthen the capacities of communities and institutions for disaster risk management and climate change adaptation, and build eco-friendly, climate and earthquake resilient homes. The disaster risk management and adaptation capabilities and practices that are developed and refined will be scaled up to help other communities better prepare for climate and non-climate hazards. The Government of Canada has so far provided 23 million USD in humanitarian assistance funding in response to the crisis, which has been directed to experienced humanitarian partners, including UN humanitarian agencies, Canadian NGOs and the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC). "This initiative will support mountain communities in their rebuilding and rehabilitation efforts following the earthquake of 2015 and the knowledge generated will be shared in the wider region to improve disaster planning and preparedness to reduce the devastating impacts of such events," said IDRC President Jean Lebel. High Commissioner for Canada to India, Nadir Patel said that in the aftermath of last year's earthquake in Nepal, Canada provided a timely and comprehensive response to humanitarian needs. "Canada remains committed to work with Nepal in supporting the most vulnerable people affected by this tragedy. The ICIMOD project supported by IDRC will help in the long term rehabilitation of the affected people," he added. Resonating similar sentiments, David Molden, Director General of ICIMOD said it is important to rebuild infrastructure after the earthquake, adding that it is critical that the focus be on rebuilding livelihoods. "In addition to road, irrigation and building reconstruction, the project will focus on community resilience with a special focus on mountain women. The efforts will help the mountain communities to better prepare for climate and non-climate hazards," he added. He further stated that the whole Hindu-Kush Himalayas is a high hazard region for earthquakes, and the lessons learned need to be transferred to other countries in the region, a role that ICIMOD as regional, intergovernmental organization can play. The project supports rebuilding in Nepal in the context of natural disaster management, risk management, rehabilitation, strengthening livelihoods and community resilience. This work builds on IDRC investment in Nepal since 1972. IDRC has been working on climate and water related challenges in the region for more than 20 years. The 1.2 million USD initiative will build earthquake resilient housing for 100 families. Citing the condition of India's economy, the Congress Party on Monday said that nothing except 'platitude' should be expected from the General Budget 2016-2017. "The way our economy is, everybody knows that except for platitude, nothing is going to happen in this budget. Rather than making wild announcements on the radio, the Prime Minister should give a direction to the economic policy to see how we can come out of the mess that his own government has created," Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit told ANI. Taking a jibe at the Prime Minister Narendra for unnecessarily 'dramatising' everything, Dikshit said "The Budget comes every year, because it establishes the economic and financial policy of the government for the coming financial year." "People look up to it because they want to see any relief they would get from the government which is in power," he added. Meanwhile another Congress leader Pramod Tiwary slammed the government for favouring the industrialists by ignoring the common man of the country. "It been almost two year of the Modi government, and if we take a close look at each of this government's budgets, they are far from what they promised. It portrays the government as a usurer who only takes the money from the common man and gives them nothing. It gives money handful of industrialists but forgets the debt ridden farmers and common man of this country," Tiwary told ANI. Ahead of the announcement of the 2016 Annual Budget today, Minister of State (MoS) for Finance Jayant Sinha said, that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi a wholesome Budget had been formed, keeping the suggestions of everyone in mind. "The Prime Minister has given us the guidance that when faced with a test, we must be fully prepared and rest. At 11:00 clock you will see what the Budget has to offer. We have really worked hard for this and prepared a lot. Under the guidance of the Prime Minister and the Finance Minister, we have been working in the service of the people," Sinha told the media here. Meanwhile, the Finance Minister has a herculean task of balancing the needs of agriculture as well as the industry as the Modi-Government seeks to garner resources to boost public spending for higher growth amid global headwinds. Rising rural distress because of back-to-back droughts has put considerable pressure on the Finance Minister to spend more on social schemes, while at the same time he has to win back foreign investors craving for faster reforms. Laying out the plans for the Agricultural Sector, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday said the NDA Government aimed to double the income of farmers in the next five years, while allocating Rs. 35,984 crores for farmers' welfare. The Finance Minister said a unified agriculture market 'e-platform' would be dedicated to the nation on the birthday of Dr. B.R. Ambedkar on April 14, besides a dedicated irrigation fund worth Rs. 20,000 crore to be set up under the National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (NABARD). "The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY) has strengthened and implemented in mission mode, while Rs. 19,000 crore has been allotted for the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)," said Jaitley. The Finance Minister said five lakh acres would be brought under organic farming over a three-year period. He also announced Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to farmers for fertilisers in some districts for now. Using data from Nasa's Interstellar Boundary Explorer (IBEX) to better describe space in our galactic neighborhood, a team of scientists has determined the strength and direction of the magnetic field outside the heliosphere. Such information gives us a peek into the magnetic forces that dominate the galaxy beyond, teaching us more about our home in space. The theory says that some solar wind protons are sent flying back towards the sun as neutral atoms after a complex series of charge exchanges, creating the IBEX ribbon, said lead author Eric Zirnstein from the Southwest Research Institute in San Antonio, adding that simulations and IBEX observations pinpoint this process, which takes anywhere from three to six years on average, as the most likely origin of the IBEX ribbon. Outside the heliosphere lies the interstellar medium, with plasma that has different speed, density, and temperature than solar wind plasma, as well as neutral gases. These materials interact at the heliosphere's edge to create a region known as the inner heliosheath, bounded on the inside by the termination shock - which is more than twice as far from us as the orbit of Pluto - and on the outside by the heliopause, the boundary between the solar wind and the comparatively dense interstellar medium. Some solar wind protons that flow out from the sun to this boundary region will gain an electron, making them neutral and allowing them to cross the heliopause. Once in the interstellar medium, they can lose that electron again, making them gyrate around the interstellar magnetic field. If those particles pick up another electron at the right place and time, they can be fired back into the heliosphere, travel all the way back toward Earth, and collide with IBEX's detector. The particles carry information about all that interaction with the interstellar magnetic field and as they hit the detector they can give us unprecedented insight into the characteristics of that region of space. Zirnstein noted that only Voyager 1 has ever made direct observations of the interstellar magnetic field, and those are close to the heliopause, where it's distorted. But this analysis provides a nice determination of its strength and direction farther out. The new findings can be used to better understand how our space environment interacts with the interstellar environment beyond the heliopause, said researcher Eric Christian, IBEX program scientist at NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center in Greenbelt, Maryland, who was not involved in this study. In turn, understanding that interaction could help explain the mystery of what causes the IBEX ribbon once and for all. The study is published in Astrophysical Journal Letters. Former Chief Justice of India, Justice H.L. Dattu, today joined as the Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission of India. He is the seventh Chairperson of the Human Rights Commission. Born on the 3rd December, 1950 in Chikamagaluru district of Karnataka, Justice Dattu, after completing his early education in Kadur, Tarikere and Birur, moved to Bengaluru to pursue his higher studies. He completed his LL.B. from Bengaluru and enrolled at the Karnataka Bar Council on October 23, 1975 as an advocate and pleaded in civil, criminal, constitutional and taxation matters. He appeared as a Government Counsel in the Karnataka High Court for the sales tax department from 1983 to 1990. He was the state government's advocate from 1990 to 1993, the standing counsel of the Income Tax Department from 1992 to 1993 and a Senior standing counsel for the same department from 1993 to 1995. He was appointed as a Judge of the Karnataka High Court on December 18, 1995 and elevated as the Chief Justice of the Chhattisgarh High Court on the February 12, 2007. On May 18, 2007, he was transferred to head the Kerala High Court. He was elevated as a judge of the Supreme Court on the December 17, 2008. On September 28, 2014, he was appointed as the Chief Justice of India and retired on December 2, 2015. Justice Dattu has been associated with several significant judgments. He was on the bench that expanded the Indian jurisprudence on death sentence cases by commuting the death penalty of terror convict Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar to life term over mental illness and an inordinate delay in deciding his mercy plea by the government. Justice Dattu also headed the bench that acquitted 11 persons charged under terror laws telling the Gujarat police that no innocent person should be branded a terrorist and put behind bars simply because he belongs to a minority community. The bench said Police must ensure that no innocent person has the feeling of sufferance only because "my name is Khan, but I am not a terrorist". Justice Dattu pronounced a landmark verdict giving a ruling that "bail is the rule and jail an exception" while granting bail to five big corporate in the 2G case. Authoring this verdict along with Justice G. S. Singhvi on the bench, he said: "The courts owe more than verbal respect to the principle that punishment begins after conviction, and that every man is deemed to be innocent until duly tried and duly found guilty." Upholding the freedom of press, Justice Dattu quashed an Allahabad High Court order, directing the Centre to prohibit media from reporting on the controversial troop movements near the capital in 2012. Left in cold storage for quite some time, the black money case hit the headlines again as Justice Dattu rejected the UPA government's plea and started hearing the case. He ordered immediate constitution of the Special Investigation Team, ordered by the Apex Court way back in 2011. He was on the Constitution Bench that declared as "unconstitutional" a law enacted by Kerala to restrict water level in the Mullaperiyar dam to 136 feet, while protecting the legal right of Tamil Nadu. The Manohar Lal Khattar Government will today file a status report in Punjab and Haryana High Court on reported mass rapes during the Jat reservation protests in Murthal. The High Court had sought a detailed report on alleged gang-rapes in Murthal near Sonepat from the Haryana Director General of Police and the Home Secretary by Monday. The High Court took suo motto cognizance of the issue after it emerged that some women passengers were allegedly raped near Murthal in Sonipat during the and said that victims of the alleged sexual assault could file complaints directly with chief judicial magistrates, instead of going to the police. The Haryana Police had yesterday confirmed that it received a call from the woman on Saturday morning and her statement was recorded on Sunday. "An FIR has been lodged against seven persons in connection with a gangrape on the basis of a complaint filed by a Narela-based woman today," Haryana Police, DIG, Rajshree Singh said. Earlier, some locals, including truck drivers, had claimed they had seen women being dragged to the fields by the protesters. TV channels showed footage of garments worn by women strewn in some places. A Delhi Court on Monday sentenced former union minister P K Thungon to three-and-a-half year jail term in a scam relating to allotment of government shops during 1993-94. Thungon, who is already in jail over a graft case, was on Wednesday convicted by the Tis Hazari Court in the capital. Special CBI Judge Sanjeev Aggarwal found Thungon guilty of offences under Section 120B (criminal conspiracy) of the IPC along with Sections 13d (iii) and other provisions of Prevention of Corruption Act. Thungon was, in July 2015, awarded a four-and-a-half year jail term in a 1998 graft case relating to misappropriation of central funds. Thungan, along with three other accused, was involved in misappropriating money meant for an irrigation project in Nagaland. A 250-strong Pakistan Army contingent has left for the Central African Republic (CAR) to perform peace-keeping duties under the aegis of the United Nations. Inter Service Public Relations (ISPR) Brigadier Maqbool Ahmad saw the contingent off at the Allama Iqbal International Airport in Lahore, reports the Dawn. Array The departing batch will replace the already deployed Pakistan Army contingent in the war-ravaged country as part of the relieve and rotation schedule. Array Speaking to troops, Brigadier Ahmad said the Pakistan Army has had added another glorious chapter in its history of peacekeeping by rendering dedicated services for the restoration of peace all over the globe. The services of Pakistani contingent to secure stable environments for maintenance of peace and order in Somalia, Eastern Slovenia, Bosnia, Haiti, East Timor, Liberia, Sudan, Ivory Coast, Congo and Sierra Leone had enhanced the country's image among the comity of nations. Pakistan has stepped up security in the garrison town of Rawalpindi and in other parts following the early morning execution of Mumtaz Qadri, the assassinator of former Punjab Province Governor Salman Taseer. Qadri was executed at the Adiala Jail this morning, reports the Dawn. A former police commando, Qadri had assassinated Taseer in Islamabad's Kohsar Market on January 4, 2011 for his support to a blasphemy accused. Array An Anti-Terrorism Court convicted and condemned him to death, a ruling also upheld by the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court. Array A review petition of Qadri was also turned down by the top court on December 14 last year, leaving him with the last option to file a clemency appeal to the president. Qadri's body was being displayed to his supporters at his family's home in the city, where the Pakistan Rangers and police in riot gear as well as ambulances and dozens of police vehicles were stationed. Armed Rangers could also be seen on the roof of the building housing Qadri's residence, while authorities blocked some roads in the neighbourhood. Cries were heard from inside the house as hundreds of men and women gathered, and mosques could be heard broadcasting news of the execution. Pakistan Prime Minister's Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi has said that Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to visit Islamabad in November this year. Dates for the upcoming SAARC summit in Islamabad are being worked out in consultation with member states said Fatemi. The summit will probably be held in November, reports Dawn. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to attend the summit," he added. Pakistan has proposed to host the 19th SAARC Summit in Islamabad in November 2016. Further, Fatemi said a five-member Joint Investigation Team (JIT) formed to probe the January 2 terror attack on Pathankot airbase will complete its work this week. The Punjab government had last week formed the JIT to investigate the Pathankot airbase attack case, which was registered a week earlier in Gujranwala. Elite Force commando Mumtaz Qadri, who was convicted of killing former Punjab governor Salman Taseer, was executed at the Adiala Jail in Pakistan early Monday morning. According to the Dawn, Qadri was sentenced to death for assassinating Taseer on January 4, 2011, in Islamabad's Kohsar Market. Qadri said he killed Taseer over the politician's vocal and vehement opposition to blasphemy laws of the country. "I can confirm that Qadri was hanged in Adialia jail early Monday morning," senior local police official Sajjid Gondal said. A prison official confirmed the of Qadri. The body of Mumtaz Qadri was handed over to his family members and was moved from the jail under tight security cover. Qadri's last meeting with his family was arranged late on Sunday night. Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said the 'pro farmer, pro poor and pro reform' Union Budget presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Parliament outlines the government's priorities. "It (Budget) is pro farmer, pro poor and pro reform budget. The Budget outlines the priorities of this government and the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi," Singh said. He also said if the Union Budget were like annual exams for our Prime Minister Narendra Modi then he has passed the exams with flying colours. Array "The Budget 2016-17 gives the government an opportunity to deepen the economic foundation and widen the infrastructure network of our country," he added. Array Singh further marked that strengthening rural economy and providing income security to the farmers has been given top priority in this year's Budget. Array "Introduction of Pradhanmantri Fasal Bima Yojana coupled with the allocation of Rs 20000 crore to improve irrigation facilities in India will boost the farm sector. Highest ever target of Rs 9 lakh crore as agriculture loans to farmers and highest ever allocation of Rs 38500 crore to MNREGA is bound to benefit rural economy. Increasing the allocation of funds to Pradhanmantri Gram Sadak Yojana to Rs 19000 crore is a big step to boost rural infrastructure," he said. Array The minister said Infrastructure development is one of the biggest positives of this year's Budget. Array "Rs 55000 crore to developing Highways is a welcome step. Clubbed with capital expenditure in Railways the investments in infrastructure sector by this NDA government will exceed more than 2.2 lakh crore," Singh added. Array Singh said that the Budget has also provided for a health cover of up to Rs 1 lakh to BPL families which shows this governments concern for poor and needy. Array "Decision to provide 2.87 lakh crore Grant in Aid to Gram Panchayats and municipalities will go a long way in strengthening panchayati Raj institutions," he added. Array "The Budget has also made several provisions which would boost the manufacturing sector and also create many job opportunities for the youth. The Budget has certainly outperformed people's expectations on almost all fronts and it will have a multiplier effect on our economy," the minister added. The Delhi High Court on Monday will resume the hearing on the bail plea of JNU Students' Union President Kanhaiya Kumar, who has been arrested in a sedition case. The High Court on 24th February had deferred the hearing till today after Delhi police informed the court that it will seek Kanhaiya's further custodial interrogation. Police is likely to apprise the court about the ongoing probe, during which it had taken Kanhaiya into one-day custody on 25th February to confront him with two other JNU students and accused Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya. Array Kanhaiya was thereafter remanded back in judicial custody for two weeks on February 26th. Kanhaiya was arrested on February 12th. Umar and Anirban, who had surrendered before the police on February 23rd, are in police custody till today. Meanwhile, another JNU student Ashutosh Kumar, who is among one of the six students to have been charged with sedition, was questioned by the Police yesterday in connection with the case. The students face sedition charges for allegedly raising anti- slogans at the JNU campus during an event earlier this month. The US has asserted that it is maintaining close ties with India and Pakistan as they help in reducing tensions between the two hostile neighbours adding that they wants the Prime Ministers to hold bilateral talks. According to the Dawn, US Secretary of State John Kerry argued in two recent congressional hearings that the US has been working "really hard" to advance a "rapprochement" between Islamabad and New Delhi. A transcript released yesterday shows that Kerry indirectly confirmed media reports that the US had been quietly encouraging the two prime ministers to hold bilateral talks. "We encourage that. I think it's required to encourage both leaders to engage in the dialogue that they've engaged in. And needless to say, we don't want to do things that upset the balance. But we do believe that Pakistan is engaged legitimately in a very tough fight against identifiable terrorists in their country that threaten Pakistan," he argued. A Pakistani delegation reached US on Sunday for a strategic dialogue that seeks to enhance Islamabad's relations with Washington. The discussions on non-proliferation precede a nuclear summit Washington is hosting next month. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his Pakistan counterpart Nawaz Sharif will be attending the summit. It wouldnt be wrong to say that the Industry has pretty much received a step-motherly treatment in the 2016 Union Budget. By the looks of it, it is going to be another tough year for the auto-makers. The industry had voiced concerns over the excise duty structure for passenger vehicles (which, not to mention is properly confusing), incentives for manufacturing greener vehicles and most importantly, implementation of the GST before the budget. With the proposed budget, heres why we think it's a bag of hurt for the Industry. More taxes! SIAM, in its recommendation to the Government had suggested two key changes for boosting the Sector. These included a simplified excise duty structure and an vehicle scrappage policy. While theres no provision for incentivizing vehicle scrappage theres been an increase in taxes for passenger vehicles. The additional levies are as follows: 1 % infra cess on small petrol/LPG/CNG cars (sub 4-m, with engine not exceeding 1200cc) 2.5 % additional tax on diesel cars ( sub 4-m, with engine not exceeding 1500cc) 1% luxury tax on all cars above Rs 10 lakh 4 % tax on big cars, SUVs (above 4-m with engines bigger than 1500cc) These changes will hit auto-makers like Mahindra&Mahindra and Toyota quite hard. For instance, M&M has two of its best performing vehicles - the Scorpio and the XUV5OO that attract not just the extra 1% luxury tax, but also the additional 4% SUV tax. At the end of the day, the additional costs will simply be passed on to the customer. Dr. Pawan Goenka, Executive Director, M&M Ltd shared his views on the 2016 Union Budget: The Budget places strong emphasis on agriculture, rural economy, infrastructure and social sector. This is what I was hoping for. The resurgence and thrust on the PPP in infrastructure is most welcome. I also appreciate laying down some very clear goal posts on farm income and on village electrification. Perhaps more could have been done for financial sector and taxation, though staying with the FRBM target was an unexpected bold move and perhaps does put some spending constraints on the Government. On the face of it, imposing upto 4% Cess for Passenger vehicles is a concern for auto industry. However, one has to take it in stride, in view of all the priorities that we have for our economy and we in the industry have to manage it. Would have been good if some of the additional revenue from this cess was used to phase out older vehicles. Nothing in it for the eco-friendly! The previous budget saw an allocation of 75 Cr under the FAME scheme to promote and incentivize electric vehicle production & usage. This doesnt really give the EV industry the push it requires. The only silver lining, is that the concessions in excise for the EVs shall continue. Mr. Shekar Viswanathan, Vice Chairman and Whole - Time Director, Toyota Kirloskar Motor Pvt. Ltd. said: "We would have expected some measures to promote alternate fuel technologies which would have helped the environment also. We would encourage the government not to just think based on size of the vehicle which has no relation to the technology. Taking older vehicles off the road should be a priority for the government. We complement the measures and schemes which have been introduced to benefit the masses and also thrust on infrastructure which would have a long term impact on the growth of the nation." No mention of a scrappage scheme! An inclusive scrappage scheme would have proved to be a trigger for the junta to trade in their old smoke-bellowing cars for cleaner, newer vehicles. This not only takes the polluting vehicles out of the roads, but also proves to aid sales of new passenger vehicles. With auto - aficionados crying themselves hoarse over the Delhi diesel ban, one would expect the Government to take note that it isnt new cars (or even SUVs for that matter) that pollute as much as ill-maintained, old vehicles. Wed stress on ill-maintained, purely because there are old cars that are the pride and joy of few garages that tick all the right boxes when tested for emissions. Mr. Sumit Sawhney, Country CEO & Managing Director, Renault India Operations had the following view: Citing pollution and the traffic situation in cities as a matter of concern, there is a proposal to levy a cess of 1% on small, petrol and CNG cars, 2.5% on diesel cars of certain capacity and 4% on other higher engine capacity vehicles and SUVs. While doing this, the industry was hoping that the Government should have taken progressive steps such as introducing a scrappage incentive scheme, to keep older cars off the roads and would not have impacted the industry. Such a policy will benefit the environment, reduce fuel consumption and also propel further demand for greener and efficient vehicles. Is there a silver lining? The silver lining comes in the form of the focussed approach towards Infrastructure. The National Highway Authority of India is to raise Rs. 15,000 Cr via bonds in 2017. Also, a massive Rs. 97,000 Cr sum has been allocated for the development of roads. This sum will be majorly for the announced 10,000 kilometers of new national and state highways. Improvement and upgradation of 50,000 kilometers of existing roads is also on the cards. This will lead to a rise in demand for passenger vehicles and two-wheelers in rural and semi-urban areas. The Wrap-Up With the new Automotive Mission Plan 2016 - 2026 being chalked, The Government of India aims to make automobile manufacturing the poster boy of the "Make in India" initiative. It envisions the passenger vehicles market to triple from the current 3 million to 9.4 million units by 2026. However, with the kind of treatment being doled out to the industry, it is hard to see how. The additional levy will cause a ding in demand for vehicles and subsequent sales as well. The positives remain a the focus and commitment on building better roads, developing the rail-network and the ports. Recommended: Union Budget Rewind: A decade of budgets and the Auto Industry! Source : CarDekho The past decade has seen the Indian Industry ride a wave of ups and downs. With the Union Budget 2016 under way, let's take a quick look at how the past decade affected the Indian automotive sector. 2006 - 07: The Sub 4 - Metre Curveball A decade back, the Government of India brought the sub 4-metre restrictions into effect. What that effectively led to a slew of compact sedans flooding the market. A segment that was unknowingly kicked off by the erstwhile Indigo CS; now has the top-dogs from the industry battling it out for market share. The 2006-07 budget can be termed as a turning point in the Indian Industry. The odd rule not only forced manufacturers to think differently and create a class of vehicles specifically for India. Case in point: the yet to be launched Volkswagen Ameo. The restrictions also forced manufacturers to downsize engines and even develop entirely new engines that meet the mandate of the segment. 2007-2008 : More Education Cess A secondary and higher education cess @ 1% of the aggregate of duties of excise was imposed on excisable goods. The 1% levy was in addition to the basic education cess of 2% imposed in the 2004 budget. Automakers had no choice, but to pass on the additional duties onto the customer. Automakers raised prices of their vehicles by a few thousands to offset the additional duties. Also, the government focused on in-house R&D. This budget saw a deduction of 150 % for the expenditures related to in-house research and development. 2008 - 2009 : Cars get cheaper! The Government of India reduced the Excise duty on small cars from 16% to 12% in the Union Budget. The excise duty rate was further reduced from 12% to 8% in December 2008. This reduction was a part of Government initiative towards revival of Automobile industry from the recessionary situation. The excise duty on cars other than small cars was also reduced from 24% + Rs. 20,000 to 20% + Rs. 20,000. 2009 - 2010 Large Cars get slightly cheaper. The 2009 Union Budget didnt bring much for the Industry as a whole. A small silver lining was however, that the excise on large cars was reduced to 20 % (plus 15,000). However, excise on 2 wheelers, 3 wheelers, small cars and diesel driven commercial vehicles continued to remain at 8%. 2010 - 2011 The first push for Electric Vehicles Electric cars, benefited since the excise duty on them was reduced to 4% from 8%. Full exemption from custom tax on electric automobiles and on its components were also announced in the budget. A blow came in the form of hike in excise for passenger vehicles. A 10% tariff was imposed on small cars; up from the 8% levels it benefited from since December 2008. Large car buyers who had gotten a nominal relief last time round had no reason to cheer either. The excise on large cars was revised to 22%. Other significant changes that affected the auto sector was an excise of tariff of Re 1 on every litre of petrol. This led to the market lapping up diesel vehicles left, right and centre! 2011 - 2012 Getting EVs past infancy Erstwhile Finance Minister proposed a National Mission for hybrid & electric vehicles. The mission would not only promote their adoption but also incentivise them. Critical parts/assemblies required to manufacture hybrid vehicles were granted exemption from the basic custom duty of 10%. A concessional rate of 5% excise duty was granted to locally manufactured hybrid vehicles. The reduction of custom duty on raw steel too, gave the auto industry a reason to cheer. Besides these, the excise duty remained intact on vehicles. 2012 - 2013 The upswing After a steady couple of years of no hikes in duty; auto-makers were in for a shocker in FY12-13. The excise duty structure for cars was revised heavily. Instead of having a single slab for large vehicles, the vehicles were split further into seemingly confusing slabs. The gist of changes included: Increase in excise duty from 10% to 12% on small cars, Aincrease in excise duty from 22% to 24% on large cars [more than 4m in length and having engines smaller than or equal to 1.2 litre (petrol) / 1.5 litre (diesel) engines], Aincrease in excise duty from 22% + Rs 15000 to 27% on large cars [more than 4m in length and engines bigger than 1.2 litre (petrol) / 1.5 litre (diesel)] The only respite was an excise duty reduction from 10% to 6% on specified parts of hybrid vehicles. 2013 - 2014 No Relief! The auto-sector took one on the chin in 2013-2014. The budget saw an increase in excise duty of SUVs by 3%, meaning it grew from 27% to 30%. Only SUVs to be used as taxis were exempted from this increase in excise duty. The customs duty on completely built units saw an increase of 25%; going up to 100% from the previously set 75%. The import duty on motorcycles above 800cc also went up from 60% to 75%. The excise duty for other vehicles remained unchanged. 2014 - 2015 Momentary Relief The budget led by UPA government announced excise duty reductions. Small cars saw a revision of 4% (from 12% to 8%), excise on mid-sized cars was reduced to 20% (down from 24%) and SUVs were levied with a 24% excise (instead of 30%). Two-wheelers and commercial vehicles also get a rate cut from 12% to 8%. In June 2014, when the BJP came into power, the excise duty concession was extended by six months to December 31, 2014. Post which, the excise duties on the aforementioned vehicle segments were increased to the previous rates. 2015 - 2016 Nothing in it! Please of auto-makers went unheard last year. The excise duty structure remained unchanged. The only positive thing to come out of the Union Budget 2015-16 was fund allocation to FAME. To promote green vehicles, the Government of India proposed 75 crore for electric vehicle manufacturing. Excise duty concessions on EV manufacturing were retained as well. Cars like the Mahindra e2o saw a steep price cut thanks to this. Recently launched mild hybrids such as the Ciaz SHVS and the Ertiga SHVS benefited from the cut as well. What does 2016-17 hold for the auto industry? With the budget lurking around the corner, the industry has voiced its expectations. Be sure to catch SIAMs recommendations and What the Auto Industry expects exclusively on CarDekho. Stay tuned for an in-depth analysis of the 2016-2017 budget and how it impacts the auto space and you - coming soon! Source : CarDekho At least 12 militants were killed and six others injured on Monday when Pakistani army launched an aerial and ground offensives in the country's northwest tribal region of North Waziristan. The forces, backed by jet fighters from Pakistan Air Force, pounded three militants' hideouts, killing seven militants in Shawal area of the North Waziristan, a semi-autonomous tribal area along Pakistan-Afghanistan border, Xinhua cited local Urdu Channel Samaa News as saying. In the ground operation, the troops gunned down five militants and injured six others in the Shawal area. Identities of the killed militants have not been revealed yet, but North Waziristan Agency is believed to be a hotbed of outlawed group Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan activity. This is the third major operation against the militants in the area over the last three days. The recent offensives are continuation of the military operation in North Waziristan Agency. Aiming at the eradication of local and foreign militants from the volatile North Waziristan agency, the armed offensive called "Zarb-e-Azb" (sharp strike) was launched on June 15, 2014. The army's media wing Inter-Services Public Relations said in an earlier statement that about 3,500 militants have been killed in the operation so far and most of the North Waziristan area has been cleared of the militants. At least 17 people were killed and 41 others were injured on Monday in a suicide bomb attack in Iraq's eastern province of Diyala, a provincial security source told Xinhua. The suicide bomber wearing an explosive vest detonated himself at a funeral tent in the Shiite village of Brishtah, 100 km northeast of the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, the source said on condition of anonymity. He added that provincial security authorities imposed a curfew and intensified security measures in numerous villages and towns in the area, including Maqdadiyah, to prevent potential retaliatory attacks. IS has frequently targeted crowded areas, including markets, cafes and mosques throughout Iraq. Iraq is currently witnessing a wave of violence since IS took over areas of Iraq's northern and western regions in June 2014. A United Nations report estimated that over 22,300 people were either killed or injured in armed conflict in Iraq in 2015. BJP president Amit Shah on Monday hailed the general as "pro-poor" and "pro-farmers". "I thank and congratulate Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for keeping farmers, poor and rural India at the centre of union budget," Shah told reporters after the was presented in parliament. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 "This will help strengthen Modi's aim of bringing poor and villagers into the mainstream of development," Shah added. BJP president Amit Shah and Union Minister of Road, Transport and Highways Nitin Gadkari on Monday launched the first official poster of filmmaker Omung Kumar's upcoming biographical drama film "Sarbjit" at Shah's residence here. Also present at the venue were actresses Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Richa Chadha, actor Darshan Kumar and movie producers Bhushan Kumar, Vashu Bhagnani and Sandeep Singh. "I would like to congratulate the team for making a film on this topic. It's the story of a young man, who gave away all his life for his nation. I would like congratulate the whole team and wish them success for the film. I hope that the message of the film should reach to every part of India. Dalbir Kaur and Sarabjit Singh's struggle will motivate everyone," Shah said at the event. "It's a very important topic for our country and its citizens. It's a very sensitive topic and tells the struggle of a sister and her brother. It will definitely inspire the young generation of our country," Gadkari said. "Sarbjit" tells the story of Sarabjit Singh, an Indian farmer who was convicted of terrorism and spying in Pakistan and was sentenced to death. He was attacked by inmates at a prison in Lahore in April 2013 and died a few days later. The film will be narrated through the perspective of the victim's sister Dalbir Kaur. The first poster of the film gives a glimpse of Aishwarya as Dalbir Kaur. Talking about her experience, Aishwarya said: "It's a subject we are all very familiar with and those who are not, we were very keen that they get to know this story because it's a very important one that we as a nation would need to understand, recognise and respect. I feel extremely honoured to play the part of Dalbir Kaur, a lady I immensely respect." Actor Randeep Hooda will be seen as Sarabjit Singh, while Richa will play Sarabjit's wife. Richa described her shooting experience as a "very painful one". "It's a real privilege for me to play Sarabjit's wife. When we interacted with them, we got to know how deep their pain was. We feel happy that in some way we will be able to tell the human causality with politics involved and the life beyond statistics. It's a film for peace," she said. Meanwhile, Omung Kumar said, "It's a true story based on a sister's struggle. It's a political story. We wanted to create awareness through a different way. That's why we decided to launch first poster at Amit Shah's residence." Asked whether he should get another National Award after his debut directorial "Mary Kom", Omung Kumar said: "We have made the film with wholehearted effort. It would be great if I get another award." Conservative ministers and senior backbenchers in the Parliament have threatened a "no confidence vote" if British Prime Minister David Cameron fails to stop the "blue on blue" attacks on fellow Conservatives Cameron may face a leadership challenge after the "in or out" European Union (EU) referendum unless he tones down his attacks on pro-Brexit London mayor Boris Johnson and other Eurosceptics, Xinhua cited a report in the Sunday Times on Sunday. Under the Conservative Party's rules, a vote of no confidence can be called if 15 per cent of its members of Parliament (MPs) request such a vote. "Cameron's position will be untenable even if he wins the referendum if he carries on like this. There will be no problem getting 50 names," a senior backbench MP was quoted by the newspaper as saying. The ruling Conservative Party is now openly split over Britain's future in the EU, with a number of heavyweight cabinet ministers, leading conservative politicians and more than 120 MPs joining the "out" campaign. On Monday, Cameron criticised Johnson, the London mayor who has announced his support for Brexit, by suggesting that the mayor's decision was simply driven by his own ambition to become the next prime minister. In a column for the Telegraph newspaper on Monday, Johnson admitted that Cameron "has done his very best" in renegotiating British membership in the EU, but insisted that the only one way to get the change Britain wants is to vote to leave. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime chance to vote for real change in Britain's relations with Europe. This is the only opportunity we will ever have to show that we care about self-rule," he wrote. "A vote to Remain will be taken in Brussels as a green light for more federalism, and for the erosion of democracy," he added. Britain will hold a referendum on whether to remain in the EU on June 23. Britain's Prince William and his wife Kate Middleton will arrive here on April 10 for their first ever visit to India, an official statement said on Monday. They would experience a variety of aspects of contemporary Indian life, focusing on young people, sport, entrepreneurship, Indian efforts to relieve urban poverty, the creative arts, and rural life in India, the statement said. After their stay in Mumbai, the royal couple, also known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, will travel on April 11 to New Delhi. They will be in Assam on April 12 and 13 to visit the Kaziranga National Park and pay tribute to the rural traditions of the communities who live around the park. The royal couple will travel on April 14 to the neighbouring Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan and return on April 16 to Agra for a visit to the Taj Mahal, a Unesco World Heritage monument, in conclusion of their two-nation tour. "Their visit to India will be an introduction to a country that they plan to build an enduring relationship with. They will pay tribute to India's proud history, but also are keen to understand the hopes and aspirations of young Indian people and the major role they will play in shaping the 21st century," said a Kensington Palace spokesperson. A qualified pilot, Prince William, 33, is the elder son of Prince Charles, the Prince of Wales and the late Princess Diana, and is the second in line to succeed his grandmother Queen Elizabeth II to the British throne. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Monday hailed his Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for the poor-friendly general that will also fulfil their dream of owning a house. "Ask a common man, ask a poor man. They have a dream to own a house? and the government can help them fulfil that dream," Modi said in his post- comments which were televised on national TV. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 Modi said the government in its has laid emphasis on "strengthening the housing sector and give a house to poor" in India. "Through this budget, the housing sector will be strengthened and this will boost our dream of 'Housing for All'." In his budget speech in the Lok Sabha, Jaitley said the government will provide assistance to those looking to purchase their first homes. The finance minister announced deduction for additional interest of Rs 50,000 per annum for loans up to Rs 35 lakh sanctioned in 2016-17 for first time home buyers, where house cost does not exceed Rs.50 lakh. The government also proposed to provide relief to millions of families living in rented houses in the country. "Deduction for rent paid will be raised from Rs 20,000 to Rs 60,000 to benefit those living in rented houses," Jaitley said. Modi also said that the general budget was focused on the development of agriculture, farmers, women and rural areas. "The budget clearly calls for electrifying all villages thus giving an impetus to rural infrastructure," he said in his comments. The West Bengal unit of the Communist Party of India, a constituent of the Left Front in the state, on Monday said the Congress should first approach the leftist conglomerate with a formal proposal before the alliance process can begin. The West Bengal Pradesh Congress earlier sought an alliance with democratic and secular forces to take on the ruling Trinamool Congress and the opposition Bharatiya Janata Party in the coming state polls. "So far, there have only been speculations, suggestions or press statements. But unless there is a formal proposal from the Congress, how can there be an alliance?" CPI state secretary Prabodh Panda told IANS on Monday, a day after state Congress chief Adhir Ranjan Chowdhury issued a statement on the issue. While Chowdhury's statement called for uniting the democratic and secular forces in West Bengal, state Congress general secretary Om Prakash Mishra made it clear that the call was directed at the CPI-M and other Left Front partners apart from other parties opposed to the BJP and Trinamool Congress. Panda, however, stressed the need for both the camps to approach each other formally. "If there has to be an alliance, people from both the camps need to act, but so far it has only been suggestions or leaders giving a public call, but nothing has been done formally," said Panda, a former Lok Sabha member. CPI veteran Gurudas Dasgupta, who had earlier lamented that the issue was not being discussed with his party, refused to comment. Dasgupta earlier this month said the CPI would decide on the alliance only if there was a proposal, asserting it would do whatever was required to "protect democracy in Bengal". A meeting of Left Front constituents on February 11 put its stamp of approval on holding alliance talks with the Congress, but put the ball in the Congress court by saying it has to approach the combine first with the proposal. On February 18, the CPI-M central committee sought the cooperation of all democratic forces to defeat the Trinamool in the coming assembly polls. Four days after a VHP leader was murdered in Agra, the city was on Monday gripped by communal tension. The situation is tense and ahead of the 13th day death ritual of the deceased leader, the build up may snowball into a major confrontation with the state government, sources told IANS. "This tragedy has brought all ranks of the Hindutva organisations together and could be taken as a pointer to the 2017 assembly polls," they said. Heavy presence of security forces in the Nai ki Mandi and Mantola police station areas, the deployment of the Rapid Action Force and 24-hour vigil by senior officials have helped contain the build up so far. But speeches at a condolence meet on Sunday evening by Bharatiya Janata Party leaders including HRD minister of state Ram Shankar Katheria, local legislators and Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader Sadhvi Prachi who reached the venue in disguise have only heightened tension in the city. Arun Mahaur, a VHP vice president, was shot dead on Thursday in a busy market while returning from a temple. The incident has led to BJP leaders along with other Hindutva groups converging on the city. BJP state president Laxmi Kant Vajpayee was detained at Kasganj and prevented from reaching Agra. Other senior leaders are also under constant watch, sources said. "When the authorities did not allow us to hold a meeting at the deceased leader's residence, the venue was shifted to Jaipur House colony Ram Lila ground where thousands gathered," Bajrang Dal leader Premendra Jain told IANS. VHP leader Sadhvi Prachi said conditions in the state were as bad as in Kashmir and the Akhilesh Yadav-led state government was indulging in minority appeasement. Union minister Ram Shankar Katheria accused authorities in Uttar Pradesh of conspiring with anti-Hindu forces. BJP MP from Fatehpur Sikri Choudhary Babu Lal warned the administration of serious ramifications if the state administration's partisan stance continued. Cigar enthusiasts from around the globe are set to gather in Cuba this week for the 18th edition of the Habanos cigar Festival. The festival is expected to attract more US buyers and aficionados than ever before, since Washington has relaxed travel and trade restrictions as part of a year-long bilateral push to normalise ties, Xinhua news agency reported on Monday. Renowned among the world's cigar sellers and consumers, the annual festival attracts about 1,500 visitors from some 50 countries. Highlights of the five-day festival usually include tours to award-winning tobacco plantations, visits to cigar factories, a cigar rolling class, a sommelier contest, and an auction of choice humidors containing limited edition cigars. This year's festival will bring together the winning sommeliers of the past to compete for the title of "Master of Masters" in pairing cigars with fine liquors and cocktails. It will also mark the 50th anniversary of the Cohiba, a premium brand that had been popular in the US before an expanded trade embargo banned the importation of Cuban cigars in 1962. At last year's festival, the co-president of Cuban cigar producer Habanos S.C., Luis Sanchez-Harguindey, said the company was ready to meet additional demand from the US. US travellers can now bring home a limited number of cigars, but it is the eventual lifting of the trade embargo that the company is eyeing. Sanchez-Harguindey said that as soon as the embargo is repealed, the company can begin to supply the US market with 170 million premium cigars. Hoyo de Monterrey, another premium brand, will feature significantly this year, with its 2012 Harvest Reserve. The Cuaba, a brand sold exclusively at La Casa del Habano's more than 140 locations worldwide, will also be highlighted during the event. The brand will also unveil a special edition to mark its 20th anniversary. Rome, Feb 29 (IANS/AKI) A woman died in northwest Italy when a slab of ice and rocks than fell from a roof, bringing to at least six the number of people killed in severe storms across several part of the country over the past three days. The unnamed 50-year-old woman's skull was fatally fractured in the accident near a nursing home in Limone Piemonte where she worked and she died at the scene. Three people were killed in southern Italy on Sunday - one in Calabria and two in neighbouring Campania - in accidents involving trees uprooted by gales. Fifty-one-year-old farmer Rocco Montorro was killed in Candinoni, Calabria, when gale-force winds caused a large eucalyptus tree to fall on his car. In Campania, a 60-year-old jeweller and his wife were killed in similar circumstances after their Volvo car smashed into a large tree that fell across the highway they were driving down near Caserta. In the northeast Veneto region, an unnamed 50-year-old man drowned after slipping into the swollen river Tione near Verona during a storm and was swept away by the current. In the eastern Marche region, an 80-year-old man died after his car skidded off a slippery bridge and plunged into a stream in Sant'Angelo in Pontano in the province of Macerata. A boy was treated in hospital for a blow to the head in the Calabrian town of Rombiolo and in Cozenza, an elderly man was injured when he was struck by a tile. --IANS/AKI vd Former Malaysian prime minister Mahathir Mohamad on Monday said he has decided to quit the ruling party United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). Mahathir said he will not join another party or start a new one, Xinhua reported. This is the second time that Mahathir has quit UMNO. He did the same in May 2008 during the tenure of former prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi. He rejoined the party when Najib Razak became the prime minister. According to Mahathir, the party was no longer what it used to be and has turned into a party that was dedicated to retaining Razak's position as the prime minister. Mahathir was disappointed over controversies related to the debt-laden state investment company 1MDB (1 Malaysia Development Berhad), whose advisory board is chaired by Najib. There were allegations that tens of millions of US dollars went into the prime minister's personal account. Actor Gerard Butler, who is known for his enviable physique, has revealed that he finds it hard to stay physically fit. Butler, who was seen as the god of darkness in the Alex Proyas directorial "Gods of Egypt", says he especially struggles to remain fit during the time that he is not shooting for a film. "It was a lot of training for a few months. I'm used to it now, but there is that element at the beginning where you actually have to put down your packet of Cheetos and quit eating cheeseburgers. But it is great, because I don't know what kind of shape I would be in if I wasn't an actor," Butler said in a statement. "It is a great thing to put these things in front of you learning to fight, learning to trim you body," he added. What when he isn't shooting? To that, he said: "Oh crap, I try. But every time I say to myself I will stay fit this time, it just doesn't happen." Butler will next be seen in the action thriller film "London Has Fallen". The movie, a sequel to the 2013-release "Olympus Has Fallen", centres on an attack on London during the funeral of the British prime minister, who has died under mysterious circumstances. Directed by Babak Najafi, "London Has Fallen" will hit Indian screens on March 4 by Panorama Studios. Europe cannot allow Greece to fall into "chaos", German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said, amid sharp divisions among members over the migrant crisis. Austria and several Balkan countries have introduced restrictions stranding migrants in Greece. Merkel said the European Union nations had not battled to keep Greece in the euro just to leave it "in the lurch", BBC reported on Monday. She also defended her decision to open German borders to migrants, despite a resulting slump in her popularity. More than one million people arrived to claim asylum in 2015, sparking opposition within her governing coalition and a rise in far-right extremism. Merkel said she had no "Plan B" and would not change course, rejecting a proposed limit on migration. In the coming weeks she faces a major test when voters go to the polls in three German states. On Greece, she said: "Do you seriously believe that all the euro states that last year fought all the way to keep Greece in the eurozone, and we were the strictest, can one year later allow Greece to, in a way, plunge into chaos?" Greece is the main entry point for migrants arriving in Europe, and was infuriated after a group of countries led by Austria installed controls. It recalled its ambassador to Austria after the group held talks but did not invite Greece. A key meeting is scheduled on March 7 between EU members and Turkey and a further summit due later next month. With more migrants expected to take advantage of warming weather to travel to Europe, it will be a chance for the EU to agree the common response that has so far eluded them. The Delhi High Court said it will pass an order on Wednesday on the bail plea of JNU student union chief Kanhaiya Kumar, arrested on sedition charges. Justice Pratibha Rani on Monday reserved the order on the bail plea and asked Delhi Police about the Jawaharlal Nehru University Students Union president's active role during the protest. "Do you have video evidence that Kanhaiya was raising anti-national slogans?" asked the court at which police denied of having any video in this regard. At this, the court pulled up Delhi Police for not showing any evidence where Kanhaiya Kumar could be seen raising anti-national slogans. It also asked why police officers who were present there did not take any action. "When your policemen were present there in the campus in civil dress why don't they take cognizance when anti-national slogans were raised? Why did not they video record it? Why you waited for Zee news video?" asked the court. While, the Delhi Police opposed Kanhaiya's bail plea, the Delhi government prayed the court to grant him bail. Kanhaiya Kumar said that he did not raise any anti-national national slogans and did not lead any protest. Kanhaiya reached the venue when he heard that two groups were quarrelling, said his counsel. Japanese nationals visiting India will start getting visa on arrival from March 1, it was announced on Monday. "As announced by Prime Minister (Narendra Modi), the visa on arrival for Japanese nationals is being launched from tomorrow i.e. 1st March, 2016," an official statement said. This facility will be available at six airports - Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, and can be availed for the purposes of business, tourism, conference and medical treatment. "On an average, 600 Japanese nationals arrive at Delhi airport daily. It is expected that extension of this facility to Japanese nationals will further strengthen the business and tourism ties between the two countries," the statement added. Validity of this visa after entry will be for a period of 30 days, it said. About 1.80 lakh Japanese nationals visit India every year on various kinds of visas. Business and tourist visas constitute around 78 percent of these visas. During the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to India during December last year, Prime Minister Modi had announced that India will extend visa on arrival to Japanese citizens from March 1, 2016. The Iranian companies inked three agreements with India in the fields of auto industry here on Monday. The agreements were signed at the third Iran Automotive Industry International Conference which opened in Tehran on Monday, IRNA reported. Some 212 Iranian companies were attending the conference which hosts organisations from over 32 countries. The exhibition would wrap up on March 2, 2016. At least 38 Palestinians were arrested by Israeli security forces on Monday in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, sources said. The Palestinian Prisoners Club said that the Israeli army arrested 27 Palestinians in raids in the West Bank cities of Ramallah, Hebron, Nablus and Jenin, Xinhua reported. The Israeli public radio reported that nine of the arrested Palestinians were accused of taking part in violent acts, seven of whom belong to the Islamic Hamas movement. The Israeli forces seized an M16 assault rifle, a pistol and ammunition during a raid in Hebron in the West Bank. On the same day, two Palestinians were arrested after infiltrating into southern Israel, through the security barrier with Gaza, reported the radio. Palestinian fishermen's captain, Nizar Ayyash, said that Israeli naval forces arrested nine fishermen working off the Gaza coasts, after surrounding the boats. All of whom belong to the same family. The Israeli forces took the fishermen to an Israeli port, Ayyash said. Israeli naval forces often apprehend and question Palestinian fishermen under the pretext of arms smuggling through the Gaza sea. Following a cease-fire agreement in August 2014 that ended a 50 days of offensive on Gaza, Israel allowed Palestinian fishermen to sail as far as six nautical miles offshore, and said would expand the allowed area gradually. Top diplomats from Japan and China met in Tokyo on Monday to discuss possible responses to North Korea in the wake of the recent nuclear and missile tests carried out by Pyongyang. Japanese Deputy Foreign Minister Shinsuke Sugiyama met his Chinese counterpart Xuanyou Kong, marking the first high level diplomatic talks between the two countries since the Pyongyang regime carried out a nuclear test on January 6 and the following month launched a satellite aboard a rocket, EFE news reported. The meeting also comes after China and the US, both permanent members of the UN Security Council, agreed last week to draft tougher sanctions to punish North Korea for these actions. At the meeting, which comes shortly after Tokyo highlighted the impossibility of discussing over telephone with Beijing the recent arms tests carried out by North Korea, the two Deputy Foreign Ministers were also scheduled to address other regional issues. Kong had earlier said that China wants to hold a high level meeting with Japan to improve ties between the two countries, distanced by regional tensions. Relations between the two major powers in East Asia remain tensed because of the dispute surrounding the sovereignty of the Senkaku (Diaoyu in Chinese) Islands. Ties further deteriorated in recent weeks after Tokyo criticised Beijing's recent deployment of surface-to-air missile on an island in the South China Sea whose ownership is claimed by Vietnam. Airline major Jet Airways on Monday informed that it will increase operations between India and Oman by launching a daily flight between Delhi and Muscat with effect from March 21. "With the launch of this flight, Jet Airways guests from Northern India, Saarc (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) and Asean (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) regions will have the option of travelling to Oman via Delhi," said Gaurang Shetty, senior vice-president-commercial, Jet Airways. According to the company, with the launch of the new flight, it will operate a total of four daily flights between India and Muscat. This includes flights from Mumbai, Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had a narrow escape on Monday when the vehicle he was travelling in was attacked with stones and sticks by some men near Ludhiana in Punjab. His Aam Aadmi Party pointed an accusing finger at the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal saying the attack was led by a political assistant of a SAD legislator. Kejriwal, who ended his five-day tour of Punjab on Monday, tweeted that his car was attacked with batons and stones, shattering its windscreen. Punjab Police officials said the Aam Aadmi Party leader, who enjoys Z-plus security cover, was safe and escorted from the spot under tight security. Kejriwal, who was seated alongside the driver in an Innova multi-utility vehicle, was immediately shifted to another car and driven away. "The attack lasted for 3-4 minutes. There were about 30-40 people who carried out the attack," a police official present at the spot told IANS. "Badals and Congress nervous? They can't break my spirits," the Aam Aadmi Party leader added. AAP leader Ashish Khetan called it a "well orchestrated attack" and said the "goons sent by the Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones and rods as the police stood by". "The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was only by God's grace that he escaped unhurt," Khetan added. The AAP put out a photograph showing the shattered windsreen and a visibly worried Punjab Police officer standing close by. The car appeared to be stranded on a rural road, with a police vehicle in front. Kejriwal was on a five-day tour of Punjab, where the AAP has emerged as a major player. The Punjab assembly polls are scheduled for February next year. Punjab AAP leaders blamed the ruling Akali Dal for the attack. "The car of the Aam Aadmi Party's convenor and Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal has been attacked with stones and lathis by Akali activists led by Amandeep Singh Aulakh, political assistant of Dakha MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali, while the cavalcade was just leaving Whistling Wuds Resorts on the Ferozepur Road, after a function organised by the industry and traders today (Monday)," AAP leader for Ludhiana zone C.M. Lakhanpal said in a statement. "The windscreen of Kejriwal's car was completely damaged. He had a miraculous escape. The attackers continued the attack on the car for around 3-4 minutes in the presence of police till the AAP volunteers, part of the security team, foiled the attack," Lakhanpal said. The AAP leadership blamed the Punjab Police for allowing the attackers to reach the security area, from where the cavalcade was to leave, "under a pre-hatched conspiracy". "The involvement of the SAD MLA's PA was confirmed and the police allowed them to escape from the scene. No attacker was arrested on the spot, where a large police force was present," the AAP leader said, adding that the Shiromani Akali Dal-BJP combine and the Congress were "completely frustrated due to public response to Kejriwal's visits in all parts of Punjab". They said "the attack was pre-planned and the attackers had full information about the entry and exit points of the AAP leaders". The AAP leadership pointed out that the BJP supporters held a protest at the venue while the Akali Dal workers attacked Kejriwal's motorcade. "Such cowardly attacks cannot deter the Aam Aadmi Party from continuing its activities and programmes in Punjab, which are attracting overwhelming response from the people," Lakhanpal said. Workers and supporters of the Akali Dal-BJP combine and the Congress held protests against Kejriwal during his visit. During his earlier visit to Punjab last month, there was a security lapse as the Punjab government did not provide security to the Delhi chief minister while he was travelling back to Delhi. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had a narrow escape on Monday when the vehicle he was travelling in was attacked with stones and sticks by some men near Ludhiana in Punjab. Punjab Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Singh Badal ordered a probe into the incident. Pointing an accusing finger at the ruling Shiromani Akali Dal, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) said the attack was a "conspiracy hatched by the Akalis to kill Kejriwal". The AAP held Badal responsible for the attack. Kejriwal, who ended his five-day tour of Punjab on Monday, tweeted that his car was attacked with batons and stones, shattering its windscreen. Police said the chief minister, who enjoys Z-plus security cover, was safe and escorted from the spot. Kejriwal was seated alongside the driver in an Innova multi-utility vehicle when the attack took place. He was immediately shifted to another car and driven away. "The attack lasted for 3-4 minutes. There were about 30-40 people who carried out the attack," a police official present at the spot told IANS. Senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh demanded a high-level probe by a high court judge into the attack. "It was a well-planned conspiracy hatched by Akalis to eliminate Kejriwal, who has emerged as 'masiha' for the people of Punjab," he said. He alleged that the attack took place at Sukhbir Badal's behest. "The presence of Harkinder Singh, younger brother of Ludhiana MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali, apart from Youth Akali leaders Amandeep Singh Aulakh and Prabhdeep Singh Mangat, is enough indication for the conspiracy by Akalis to 'kill' Kejriwal," the AAP leader said. He accused the Punjab Police of being "hand-in-glove in the conspiracy", saying they "deliberately guided the convoy to an unscheduled route on the pretext of safety where more than 100 goons were waiting for the attack". On his part, Kejriwal tweeted earlier: "Badals and Congress nervous? They can't break my spirits." AAP leader Ashish Khetan called it a "well orchestrated attack" and said the "goons sent by the Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones and rods as the police stood by". "The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was only by god's grace that he escaped unhurt." Condemning the incident, Sukhbir Badal, who is also Punjab's home minister, said due action would be taken against the attackers. "I have directed the police to register a case against the stone pelters and take action immediately," he said in a statement. Badal directed the Punjab DGP to inquire if there was any lapse on the part of the security apparatus provided to the AAP leader. "The Punjab government is committed to providing adequate security to Kejriwal during his visits to Punjab," he said. He denied that the Akali Dal was behind the attack. Kejriwal was on a five-day tour of Punjab, where the AAP has emerged as a major player. The Punjab assembly polls are scheduled for February next year. The AAP leadership pointed out that BJP supporters held a protest at the venue while the Akali Dal workers attacked Kejriwal's motorcade. Punjab Congress president Amarinder Singh said the Congress had nothing to do with the attack. During his visit to Punjab last month, the Punjab government did not provide security to Kejriwal while he was travelling back to Delhi. Nurul Izzah Anwar, daughter of imprisoned Malaysian politician Anwar Ibrahim, said that her father's relationship with the captain of the missing Malaysia Airlines MH370 flight, Zaharie Ahmad Shah, was coincidental. "The problem we have is we have no way of knowing what the government has done to investigate, to find the actual causes of the crash," Xinhua quoted her saying, days before the second anniversary of flight MH370's disappearance on March 8, 2014. Nurul Izzah said that one of Anwar's sons-in-law, married to her sister, is a Malaysia Airlines pilot which explains why Anwar had met in passing the pilot of the plane flying from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing with 239 people on board. At the time, many speculated that the plane had been hijacked by Zaharie to protest Anwar's upheld conviction to five years in prison on sodomy charges on March 7, 2014. Much attention has been drawn to the link between Anwar, leading figure of the opposition People's Justice Party, and the captain of flight MH370 that went missing the day after Anwar's sentencing. "I understand the anger because a lot of the families did not get adequate explanation from the event. We were pushing for more disclosure in parliament because it's disastrous," Nurul Izzah added. Flight MH370 disappeared with 239 people, including 154 Chinese, on board on its way from Kuala Lumpur to Beijing on March 8, 2014. The bad news continued to pile up for Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane with the confirmation on Monday that striker Karim Benzema will be out of action for the next three weeks with a hamstring injury in his right leg. Benzema, who has scored 23 goals this season, was forced to leave the pitch after just 45 minutes of Saturday's Madrid derby, which Real lost 0-1 at home to local rivals Atletico Madrid in the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium, reports Xinhua. Tests carried out on Monday morning confirmed the extent of his injury, which means Benzema will miss La Liga games against Levante, Celta Vigo and Las Palmas and is in a serious doubt for the following game, which is against Sevilla. Benzema will also miss the return leg of the Champions League last-16 game at home to Roma, although Real Madrid take a comfortable lead into that match. The loss of the French striker is added to that of Gareth Bale and Marcelo, who are both out with calf injuries, while Sergio Ramos and Dani Carvajal are both suspended for Wednesday's league game away to bottom of the table, Levante. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday accused Prime Minister Narendra Modi of "protecting" those who raised anti-India slogans at the Jawaharlal Nehru University campus here, saying he wanted to please his ally Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Jammu and Kashmir. "I question why he has not got arrested those who raised anti-national slogans. He did not because he knows that they are from Kashmir and (PDP leader) Mehbooba Mufti would get disappointed if he arrests them," the Aam Aadmi Party leader said. "Our soldiers are dying every day on the borders but Modi is protecting anti-nationals just for the sake of his government in Kashmir," Kejriwal said in a series of tweets. The comments come a day after he, along with Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi and CPI-M leader Sitaram Yechuri, was charged with sedition. "I have been charged with sedition because I keep raising my voice for Dalits, poor and backwards. And that is why I am an anti-national in their view," Kerjriwal said. He said he would "keep raising" his voice for Dalits, poor and people from backward classes. "No one can silence me. I am a bigger patriot than Modi." Prime Minister Narendra Modi was the virtual leader of the thumping brigade in the Lok Sabha on Monday as Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's budget speech was hailed by the treasury benches. The prime minister, who heard Jaitley attentively, welcomed every major announcement by thumping the desk. Modi, who entered the Lok Sabha shortly before Jaitley stood to present the budget, initiated the desk thumping on most occasions. His colleagues promptly followed him. Modi was also the first to congratulate Jaitley after he concluded the speech. Seated on the first row with Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Modi was very friendly vis-a-vis his cabinet colleagues. He shared some lighter moments, especially with External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh. When Modi entered the house, he briefly chatted with union minister Giriraj Singh and then moved to his seat, giving a friendly smile to other MPs. Seeing him, most members of the treasury benches, including Sushma Swaraj and Rajnath Singh, stood up and welcomed him with folded hands. But Jaitley, union minister Nitin Gadkari and party veteran L.K. Advani remained seated. Modi also greeted opposition members with folded hands. xxxxxxxx After almost 10 minutes, Jaitley sought the Chair's permission to sit and read his speech. He seemed to be suffering from back pain. Congress president Sonia Gandhi listened carefully to the budget speech while vice president Rahul Gandhi at times spoke with Congress colleague Jyotiraditya Scindia. On two occasions, Rahul Gandhi was seen speaking on his mobile phone. Rahul Gandhi thumped the desk once when Jaitley mentioned his name while announcing that braille paper will be made duty free -- a demand the Congress leader has made in the past. During the speech, Sonia Gandhi took out a piece of paper, wrote something and gave it to Rahul, who read it and returned it to his mother with a quick reply. xxxxxxxxxx While half of the budget speech was over, disgruntled BJP MPs Shatrughan Sinha and Kirti Azad entered the house at the same time but from different gates. Both looked at each other and then took their seats. xxxxxxxxxx The Speaker's gallery was packed, with some guests seated on the floor. Jaitley's wife Sangita as well as son and daughter were present. So was BJP secretary Kailash Vijayvargiya. Some guests in the gallery had written their occupation in the visitors' book as "Swayamsewak". One of the galleries was full of Rajya Sabha members, including Ashwini Kumar and T. Subbirami Reddy of the Congress, BJP's M.J. Akbar, RPI's Ramdas Athawle, SAD's Naresh Gujral and RJD's Premchand Gupta. xxxxxxxxxxx After the budget speech, Jaitley was surrounded by party colleagues. BJD leader B.J. Panda shook hands with him. Modi too congratulated Jaitley, spoke to some of his colleagues briefly and, while leaving, shook hands with some officers from the Prime Minister's Office and his personal staff. One of them touched Modi's feet. After smashing a match-winning knock in Bangladesh's resounding Asia Cup win against Sri Lanka, all-rounder Sabbir Rahman said that he never cares about personal achievements. Sabbir cracked a career best 80 off 54 balls on Sunday evening to lift Bangladesh to a competitive total of 147/7 which the hosts successfully defended to seal their first ever Twenty20 victory against Sri Lanka at the Sher-e-Bangla National Stadium here. Sabbir's knock is Bangladesh's fourth highest in T20 Internationals. "I never think about my runs. I play for the team. If I score just one run in the team's victory, I am happy. I did not even think about a century today," Rahman was quoted as saying by bdnews24.com on Monday. The 24-year old, who is a T20 specialist, said he is not thinking about playing in the Indian Premier League (IPL) or other T20 tournaments abroad. "I'm not really thinking about any leagues abroad. I am completely focused on my skills now. I want to improve every day," he said. "I've been trying to contribute at No. 3. I hope I can maintain my consistency in the nest matches." Bangladesh are now second in the points table behind India with two wins in three matches. Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and ally Rashtriya Janata Dal president Lalu Prasad on Monday described the 2016-17 Union Budget as a "big disappointment" for the people and questioned its silence on bringing back black money stashed abroad. "The Union Budget is a big disappointment for the people. It is not going to help the common people, farmers and youths," Nitish Kumar told the media persons here. The general budget was presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the Lok Sabha on Monday. Nitish Kumar said it is difficult for him give pass marks to the Union Budget. The chief minister said that there was no initiative in the budget to bring back black money from abroad. "Prime Minister Narendra Modi had promised to bring back black money if elected to power at the Centre, but now the government is silent over it," he said. Lalu Prasad said the Modi government has cheated the people on the black money issue. "The government has failed to bring back black money (from abroad) and the UnBon budget is silent on it," the former chief minister said. Lalu Prasad said the budget has disappointed the people because there was no hope in it for them. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Monday said there was nothing in the 2016-17 general budget for farmers who were committing suicide across the country. "Farmers are in debt. The loans of rich industrialists have been waived off but not of the farmers. There is nothing for the farmers in the budget," Kejriwal said in a tweet while reacting to the budget presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in the Lok Sabha here. Merely opening up stores of generic medicines (in the country) would not work, Kejriwal said. Dispensaries should be set up in every village for free treatment, he added. He said that the middle class was also cheated in the budget. "There is nothing for the middle class in this budget. The Modi government cheated the middle class which votes for them," he said in a series of tweets. "The Bharatiya Janata Party vowed to bring back black money through enforcement, not through amnesty schemes. This is what (the then finance minister) Chidambaram also did. What is the difference?" he asked on his Twitter handle. Meanwhile, Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia also expressed disappointment over the budget and said: "The people of Delhi have been cheated again as there is no special amount for us." "We had discussed with the minister (Jaitley) about the financial condition of Delhi and demanded money for the (three) municipal corporations and public transport but did not get anything," he said. The AAP leader said the municipal corporations here were grappling with acute financial crisis. "They (central government) have money for Punjab and Haryana municipal corporations but nothing for us," he remarked. He said that "only Rs.5 crore had been allotted for disaster management in Delhi, which is peanuts." Around 74,000 shops, employing more than 900,000 workers in Britain's retail sector, are under threat, the British Retail Consortium (BRC) warned on Monday. The consortium, which represents high street stores, said the introduction by Chancellor George Osborne of a new compulsory national minimum wage, as well a new apprenticeship levy, will deliver the blow to the retail sector which currently employs three million workers, Xinhua reported. The BRC said the rate of change in retail is set to quicken as the digital revolution reshapes the industry, more property leases come up for renewal and the cost of labour goes up, while the cost of technology goes down. "These effects could mean there are as many as 900,000 fewer jobs in retail by 2025 but those that remain will be more productive and higher earning," said the study. Businessman Theo Paphitis, chairman of Ryman Stationery, said: "This report shows that without a major rethink by the government around the business rates system and the apprenticeship levy, together with careful consideration of the National Living Wage, the trading conditions for retail are set to worsen significantly." "The most vulnerable people and places will be impacted. The government will need to work hard to mitigate their impact," he said. The report warned store closures on British high streets could exacerbate the impact on employment in already fragile communities with weaker regions and the most vulnerable low-paid staff most at risk. The BRC has recommended changes to mitigate the impact, including reforming the business rates system, ensuring the remit of the Low Pay Commission is strengthened and greater employer leadership of the apprenticeship levy, including more discretion for employers over how and where it is spent. Helen Dickinson, CEO of the consortium, said: "The more significant insights in this report lie in where and how these changes may happen and the differential impact they are likely to have on people and places across the country. We would like to work with government to manage the impact of the changes on the most vulnerable." Pakistani authorities on Monday executed elite commando Mumtaz Qadri for the murder of former Punjab governor Salman Taseer in 2011. Qadri was hanged at the Adiala jail in Rawalpindi after an anti-terrorism court convicted and sentenced him to death in October 2011 for shooting Taseer 28 times in Islamabad's Kohsar Market on January 4, 2011. Governor Taseer had reportedly criticized Pakistan's anti-blasphemy laws, prompting Qadri to shoot him in broad daylight, Daily Pakistan reported. He had filed a mercy plea before President Mamnoon Hussain after Supreme Court maintained his conviction in October last year. Religious parties had threatened nationwide protests if Qadri was hanged. In view of a possible backlash, the president's family has been moved from Karachi to Islamabad. Strict security measures were taken within the jail premises and a heavy contingent of Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA) personnel were deployed to avoid any untoward incident. All routes leading to the jail were sealed. A self-confessed killer of the then Punjab governor Salmaan Taseer was hanged on Monday in Rawalpindi, the twin city of capital Islamabad. Mumtaj Qadri was executed at the Adiala jail in Rawalpindi after an anti-terrorism court convicted and sentenced him to death in October 2011. Qadri, who had trained as an elite police commando and was assigned to Taseer as his bodyguard, shot the politician on January 4, 2011. The killing was termed as one of Pakistan's most high-profile assassinations, which shocked the country. Salmaan Taseer had reportedly criticised the anti-blasphemy laws. Qadri claimed it was his religious duty to kill the governor, who was an outspoken critic of Pakistan's blasphemy laws and supported liberal reforms. Qadri was tried and sentenced to death later that year. A mercy plea was also filed before President Mamnoon Hussain after the apex court upheld his conviction in October last year. However, it was rejected. After the news of his execution, crowds again took to the streets in protest. Security forces have been put on high alert and a heavy police deployment, including of riot police, was in place in the area around Qadri's home in Islamabad, where his funeral would take place. Pakistan and India are engaged in a bitter contest to win over the United States amid the ever-present trust deficit, diplomatic sources said on Sunday. Since the partition in 1947, the two South Asian nations have fought four wars, including one undeclared war and many border skirmishes and military stand-offs, The Nation reported. The Kashmir issue has been the main cause, whether direct or indirect, of all major conflicts between the two countries with the exception of the 1971 war where conflict originated due to turmoil in erstwhile East Pakistan (now Bangladesh). Apart from the wars, there have been skirmishes between the two nations from time to time. India and Pakistan were expected to fight each other in 1955 after warlike posturing on both sides, but full-scale war did not break out. The past few months have seen ups and downs in the ties -- the peak coming when Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a surprise visit in December and the dip after the January 2 attack on Pathankot airbase in India. An outlawed group in Pakistan, Jaish-e-Mohammed, was believed to be involved in the attack, but Islamabad found no evidence against the JeM or its supremo Masood Azhar. Pakistani authorities are in contact with the Indian counterparts to collect more evidence which might prove JeM links with Pathankot attack. Washington has till now appreciated Pakistan's actions after the Pathankot incident but New Delhi wanted Islamabad to 'do more'. India has also been updating the US and complaining against Pakistan's 'go slow' policy. On Sunday, a four-member Pakistani delegation was in Washington to attend the sixth round of ministerial-level Pakistan-US strategic dialogue to be held on Monday. The delegation is headed by Adviser on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz. The talks will take stock of the entire gamut of bilateral relations between the two countries. The US delegation will be led by John Kerry. Official sources said the two sides could discuss the Pathankot attack apart from the scheduled agenda and Pakistan will try to convince the US about its sincerity to defeat terrorism. A senior diplomat, engaged with the Pakistan-US talks, said India had been sending bags full of complaints against Pakistan. "For the time being, the balance is in our favour. The US is appreciating our efforts against terrorism and also giving less weight to the Indian complaints. But there is a bitter war to win over the US," he said. He referred to the recent F-16 jets deal which irked India. "The US did not lend an ear to India. On the Pathankot attack too, the US seems satisfied with our efforts," he added. Another diplomat said the Indian lobby had been pressing the US to use its influence and force Pakistan to act against the JeM chief and other accused wanted by India. "John Kerry is likely to discuss the Indian complaint box with Sartaj Aziz but there is no chance of a rebuke from Washington. Our ties with the US are positive and growing. At this point, we are ahead of India in the war to win the US but their lobby is also strong. There is a tug of war," he remarked. Defence analyst Lt. General Talat Masood (retd) said the Indian criticism on the F16 deal was unjustifiable as the New Delhi was continuously purchasing latest weapons and technologies from the world, including from the US. He said between 2011 and 2015, India was the only country to import major weapons. "The war against terrorism is a global war and Pakistan's efforts are laudable. India should realise and appreciate the services of Pakistan against terrorism, rather than creating baseless propaganda," he added. General Masood said India was against the development and prosperity of Pakistan and had always tried to harm any step which can contribute to Pakistan positively. Another defence analyst, Mohammed Khan, said the Indian lobby in the US Congress was involved in propaganda against Pakistan. "The US also has strategic relationship with India but Pakistan never opposed it. The US is deeply involved in Afghanistan. The US and NATO depend on Pakistan due to Pakistan's geographical location. This is their need to empower Pakistan to get positive results in the war against terrorism," he added. He said the international community acknowledged the efforts and sacrifices of Pakistan in the war against terror. A Pakistani delegation that came here to meet prisoners in Jaipur Central Jail was denied access as no official from the union home ministry was travelling with it. "The incident occurred on February 25 when the delegation came here to meet the Pakistani prisoners. They were denied entry as per protocol that a team of the home ministry has to accompany them, but they (home ministry team) were not able to reach that day," an official of Rajasthan Prisons Department told IANS. "So, as per rules the Pakistani delegation was not allowed to meet them," he added. According to an official from the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, "the four-member team had permission from the Ministry of External Affairs to give counsellor access to Pakistani prisoners but they were denied access to the Pakistani prisoners." The Pakistani High Commission official said there are 25 Pakistani prisoners in Jaipur jail, but a Jaipur Central Jail official said only 11 Pakistani prisoners are lodged there. The Pakistani team probing the Pathankot air base terror attack will complete its investigation this week, it was announced here on Monday. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's special assistant on Foreign Affairs Tariq Fatemi told Radio Pakistan that there are currently two Joint Investigation Teams probing the attack. A six-member investigation team was formed by the federal government to investigate the case soon after the attack while a five-member team was constituted by the Punjab government last week after an FIR was filed by the Punjab Counter-Terrorism Department against the attackers at a Gujranwala police station. The FIR was filed after Indian Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar accused Pakistan of "pretending to sleep" and not being serious about the probe into the air base attack. Fatemi said that the FIR filed by the Counter Terrorism Department created legal basis for the probe team to visit India to collect evidence. The team may visit Pathankot in the first few days of March to probe the attack, he said, adding that India has agreed to the team visit. The Indonesian government on Monday deployed 5,000 police personnel to demolish hundreds of buildings in north Jakarta's red light district of Kalijodo after residents were evicted from the area last week. Police surrounded the area, shutting roads around 5.00 a.m. in a bid to prevent protests or resistance as about a dozen excavators razed the decades-old spot, EFE news reported. North Jakarta Mayor Rustam Effendi signed off on the eviction letters issued earlier this month to Kalijodo's hundreds of households who earn incomes mostly based on sex work. Police raided cafes and brothels, arresting dozens for drug use and holding weapons ahead of Monday's demolition, in which over 600 buildings are being cleared for an urban green space along a canal, which straddles north and west Jakarta. The government has also promised employment training for sex workers who wish to change professions. The Supreme Court on Monday said that it could not decriminalise a penal provision to punish hate speech as the government opposed BJP leader Subramanian Swamy's plea challenging constitutional validity of two sections of the Indian Penal Code providing for curbing hate speech and activities prejudicial to the maintenance of peace and harmony. "Can we decriminalise the law? It can't be that there can't be a law to punish" the hate speech, observed a bench of Justice Anil R. Dave and Justice A.K.Goel as it asked Swamy to approach the high court to raise his challenge to sections 153A and 295A of the IPC. "Have you challenged the validity before the high court? Let the high court first decide," said the bench. Opposing the plea by Swamy challenging the validity of section 153A, Solicitor General Ranjit Kumar told the court that his plea against the section was along with his prayer for the quashing of non-bailable warrants (NBW) against him. "If the prayer for the quashing of the NBW is not granted, then other prayers do not become PIL," he told the bench, adding that his plea for the quashing of NBW is pending before the high court and he can amend it and raise his challenge to section 153SA there also. Section 153A provides for punishment "with imprisonment which may extend to five years and shall also be liable to fine" for "promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc., and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony" while section 295A provides for punishment with imprisonment up to four years or with fine, or with both for "Deliberate and malicious acts, intended to outrage reliAgious feelings of any class by insulting its religion or religious beliefs". Urging the court to hear his challenge to the provisions, Swamy said: "When the matter is about the fundamental right or the constitutionality of an penal provision, the question is whether I should be denied my fundamental right of freedom of speech and expression." Telling the court that cases were filed against him out of political vendetta, he said that there was a "reckless misuse" of the provision by the previous UPA. The case against Swamy relates to his March 2015 comments at Assam's Kaziranga University wherein he had said that mosques were just buildings with no religious sentiments attached to them and could be pulled down anytime. During a programme in Guwahati, Swamy had also said that in Saudi Arabia, mosques, if required, are pulled down and constructed at other places. Following a complaint, a case was registered against Swamy on charges of conspiracy and promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion. Swamy has contended the provision of both sections are vaguely worded and were prone to be misused as was Section 66A of the Information Technology Act, 2000 which was recently read down by the apex court. He said that there has to be a distinction between the incitement or advocacy and the expression of opinion. The Supreme Court on Monday asked a Maharashtra court to hold daily hearings into the trial of Delhi University professor G.N. Saibaba from March 4 so as to record the statements of eight material witnesses within a month. Saibaba has been accused of links with Revolutionary Democrats Front - an alleged front organisation of the banned Communist Party of India-Maoist. Directing the trial court to "positively" record the statements of eight material witnesses, an apex court bench of Justice Jagdish Singh Khehar and Justice C. Nagappan said: "At the present moment, we consider it just and appropriate to direct the trial court to hold day-to-day trial with effect from March 4, 2016, so as to record the statements of all material witnesses." Directing the listing of the matter before it on April 4, the court said, "The statements of the material witnesses be positively concluded before the next date of hearing." The apex court also recorded the names of eight witnesses: Shrikant Pochreddi Gaddewar, Ravindra Manohar Kumbhare, Ramesh K. Yede, Raju Poriya Atram, Atul Shantaram Avhad, Suhas Prakash Bawche, N.G. Vyas (JMFC, Aheri) and Apekha Ramteke. The court order for day-to-day proceedings came as senior counsel R.S. Cheema, appearing for Saibaba, told the court that the arrested Delhi University professor was 90 percent physically incapacitated and there was also a controversy over his client's life-threatening ailment. As the bench said this view was not endorsed by the prosecution, Cheema took the court through the medical records of Saibaba to buttress his point. In a related matter, involving summoning of author turned social activist Arundhati Roy in a contempt plea, the court said it would hear the matter on July 12, 2016. Roy was issued notice by the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court on a contempt plea by a lawyer who alleged that Roy's article in an English magazine was "interference in the administration of justice". Roy in her article wrote, "So afraid is the government of this paralysed wheelchair-bound academic that the Maharashtra Police had to abduct him for arrest". Saibaba was arrested by Maharashtra Police in May 2015 for alleged Maoist links. He challenged the December 23, 2015, order of the Nagpur bench of the Bombay High Court rejecting his plea for regular bail. Rejecting the bail plea, the high court's Nagpur bench said: "There is a prima facie case against the applicant based on strong evidence and in fact, the applicant, who is an intellectual, has used his intelligentsia for anti-national activities for which there is strong evidence against him as discussed and, therefore, the case of the applicant cannot be considered on the ground of parity." Saibaba was released on interim bail on health grounds by the Bombay High Court which treated as a public interest litigation an email based on a newspaper report on his failing health condition. Saibaba suffers from 90 percent disability due to post-polio paralysis. The interim bail was extended till December 31 as the court asked him to approach the Nagpur bench for regular bail. The other accused in the case had already been granted bail. However, when Saibaba moved for regular bail, the application was rejected on December 23. He was asked to surrender at the Nagpur Central Jail within two days. Security Council reforms have gained momentum with a consensus emerging on increasing the size of the 193-member global body to the mid-20s despite opposition from Russia and the US at the recent negotiating session, according to diplomatic sources. While the issue of adding permanent members was not on the session's agenda and was scheduled for later, Pakistan and a group of countries served notice that they would oppose any such move. Despite these differences the "momentum of convergence is gaining speed" for reforms, a diplomat who was at the February 22 meeting told IANS. The diplomat cited the overwhelming support for increasing the total number of Council members from 15 to the mid-20s and for other reforms. These reforms include making the Council's working more transparent, emphasising mediation over military force, and more involvement of non-member countries in its activities. This was the second session of the Intergovernmental Negotiations on Security Council Reforms (IGN) after the General Assembly overcame stiff opposition last year to adopt a text to base the discussions on. IANS put together this account of the closed door meeting from conversations with sources who attended the meeting and speeches released by some countries. The US and Russia wanted the size of the Council restricted to 20 asserting that anything more would undermine its efficiency. Limiting it to 20 would make it virtually impossible to add permanent members because there would then be no room for any non-permanent members, which would be the priority of most countries to broaden the representation on the UN's highest decision-making body. Washington and Moscow have, however, endorsed adding permanent members, with India as one of them. But a 20-member limit on the Council could nullify this. The other permanent members, Britain and France, backed the mid-20s number, while China did not take a stand. India supported going up to 27 and Permanent Representative Syed Akbaruddin said: "Efficiency is not merely an issue of numbers but stems from a broader set of factors such as credibility, equitability, legitimacy and representativeness." Russia also opposed proposals coming from the IGN on reforming the working of the Council, the other item on the agenda, claiming that it was an internal matter that only the Council should decide. The IGN is to discuss on March 9 the veto issue, including whether new permanent members should have veto powers and if they should voluntarily forgo them. But in a preview of differences expected at the session, African nations said they wanted two permanent members from their region with veto powers and all other privileges the current five have. While China spoke of greater role for developing countries it avoided saying anything on adding permanent members so as not to publicly antagonise the African countries, even as it lobbies against more permanent members. Pakistan's Permanent Representative Maleeha Lodhi said categorically: "There should be no additional permanent seats." Pakistan belongs to a 13-member United for Consensus (UfC) group led by Italy that campaigns against adding permanent members and held up the reform process for several years by preventing the adoption of a negotiating text for the talks. Italian Permanent Representative Sebastiano Cardi, speaking on behalf of UfC, suggested adding 11 seats to the Council, but said, "UfC countries are convinced that we cannot afford to allocate seats permanently to a few countries at the expense of the rest of the membership". Cardi examined the current distribution of seats in the Council to various groups, which gives five seats to the Europe and North America group and only three each to the Asia-Pacific and Africa groups and two each to Eastern Europe and Latin America groups. This resulted in one Council seat for every 26 Asian-Pacific countries and one seat for every 18 African nations, he said. To right the imbalance, the majority of the added seats should go to Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Latin America, he said. German Permanent Representative Harald Braun, who spoke on behalf of four-nation group G-4 that includes India, Brazil and Japan, said he was "gratified" that the UfC supported his group's proposal on enlarging the Council and added that this "indicated the group's willingness to consolidating this point accordingly". The G-4 nations lobby for adding permanent seats and mutually support each for them. (Arul Louis can be reached at arul.l@ians.in) Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday gave a small relief of Rs.3,000 to individuals having an annual income of less than Rs.500,000. Presenting the budget for 2016-17, Jaitley said the ceiling of tax rebate under Section 87A of the Income Tax Act has been proposed to be increased to Rs.5,000 from Rs.2,000. This will be applicable for individuals with an income less than Rs.500,000. According to Jaitley, the move would benefit over two crore tax payers. The limit of deduction of house rent paid under section 80GG has also been raised to Rs.60,000 from the existing Rs.24,000 per annum to give relief to employees who live in rented houses. "To encourage the youth to be self employed, house rent deduction under section 80GG was expected to be revised considering the rentals in metros. Giving marginal relief to the self-employed, deduction under section 80GG has been raised from Rs.24,000 to Rs.60,000 to bring them on a level playing field with salaried taxpayers receiving house rent allowance (HRA)," Suraj Nangia, partner, Nangia & Co told IANS. "The new limit is still not in line with the sky-high rentals in metro cities and also considering the deduction on account of HRA available to salaried persons, which can be substantial in cases where the salary and its HRA component are high," Nangia added. In order to increase the penetration of the National Pension Scheme (NPS) and to make it attractive, Jaitley announced exemption of 40 percent of the corpus at the time of withdrawal. Jaitley said the annuity fund which goes to legal heir will not be taxable. In case of superannuation funds and recognised provident funds, including EPF, the same norm of 40 percent of corpus to be tax-free will apply in respect of corpus created out of contributions made on or from 1.4.2016. He also said that the government is proposing the monetary limit for contribution of employer in recognised Provident and Superannuation Fund of Rs.150,000 per annum for taking tax benefit. The service tax on single premium annuity policies has been reduced to 1.4 percent from 3.5 percent of the premium paid in certain cases. Similarly, Jaitley also announced exemption of service tax for annuity services provided by NPS and services provided by Employees Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO). On the indirect tax side, Jaitley announced abolition of 13 cesses levied by different central government ministries where the revenue collection is less than Rs.50 crore per year. A Sikh group in Britain has urged the media and politicians to stop describing the Rotherham grooming gang, which was handed combined sentence of more than 100 years for sexual assault on women, as "Asian". Sikh Federation UK said the use of term "Asian" for the Rotherham gang is too vague and "besmirches" other communities, The Independent reported on Sunday. Rotherham gang is a group in Britain, including four Pakistani men and two British women who groomed, raped, prostituted and abused teenage girls in Rotherham town of England and were handed combined prison sentences of 103 years on Friday. It was found that at least 1,400 girls had been sexually exploited in Rotherham over a 16-year period. Bhai Amrik Singh, chairman of the Sikh Federation UK said he hoped their combined prison sentences of more than 100 years would give a measure of justice to "victims that have endured more than a decade of violence and horrific sexual abuse". "One of the demands in the Sikh Manifesto that we published a year ago before the General Election was that the government should encourage public bodies and the media to abandon the use of the term 'Asian' when describing perpetrators for reasons of political correctness," Singh was quoted as saying. "If the four men that have been found guilty and carried out the abuse were Pakistani Muslims, this is how they should be described and not called Asian," he added. The term "Asian" was earlier criticised in December 2013, when Sikh and Hindu groups started a petition against the use of the word for the gang. In a joint statement, the Hindu Council UK, the Network of Sikh Organisations, Sikh Media Monitoring Group and the Sikh Awareness Society had said: "Communities who themselves fall victim of this emerging pattern of criminality, should not be besmirched by the vague terminology 'Asian' ... in order to help find a solution to the problem, we need to be clear on the identity of those involved." The petition closed with 1,859 signatures calling for the word "Asian" not to be used in grooming and sex abuse cases. The suspension of five police commandos, accused by the Naga Students' Federation of manhandling their activists, was revoked by the Manipur government on Monday. Following the announcement, the 20 Congress legislators who had threatened to boycott the ongoing budget session of the state assembly called off their agitation and attended the session, while the Naga Students' Federation is yet to post a response. Recalling the February 14 incident, the NSF said some its members attending the Naga seed sowing festival in Ukhrul district were intercepted by the five police commandos. The NSF alleged high-handedness with the policemen even snatching their mobile handsets. But Deputy Chief Minister Gaikhangam, who also holds the home portfolio, dismissed the allegations in the house. He said: "The students were not beaten up, harassed or detained. There would not have been the stand-off if the NSF delegates had cooperated with the police." Despite the categorical statement of the home minister, the DGP of Manipur, L.M. Khoute suspended all the five police commandos on February 25. The All Manipur Students' Union, Kangleipak Students' Association, several civil organisations and groups protested the suspension. They said it was being done to appease the NSF. The 20 ruling Congress MLAs also backed this stand. A special meeting of the Congress Legislature Party was convened on Sunday as demanded by the angry MLAs to discuss the matter. During the four-hour meeting, Chief Minister Okram Ibobi Singh told them the suspension order will be revoked. The United Nations plans to deliver aid to about 150,000 Syrians in besieged areas over the next five days amid a partial truce in the country's civil war, the UN has said. The UN said it will help an estimated 1.7 million people in hard-to-reach areas by the end of March, BBC reported. A cessation of hostilities began in Syria on Saturday and there were complaints of breaches from both sides. But it otherwise appears to be intact with a key Syrian opposition group saying the situation was much better. Western powers have accused Russia of attacking moderate rebels fighting Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, but Moscow said it only targets UN-designated terror groups. This is now a crucial window of opportunity for the UN to get food and aid to the besieged. The truce does, in general, remain intact despite both the Western-backed opposition and regime sides complaining of dozens of violations over the weekend, including air strikes around Aleppo. But it was not clear whether the target was the Al-Qaeda-linked Nusra front, which would not constitute a ceasefire breach since the group and Islamic State (IS) were not included in the deal. A rebel spokesman talked of violations "here and there" but a situation much better than before. Moscow also complained of incidents but said on the whole, the ceasefire was being implemented. There was still a lot of scepticism that it can continue for the full two weeks, Moscow said. The UN's humanitarian coordinator in Syria, Yacoub el-Hillo, called the truce "the best opportunity that the Syrian people have had over the last five years for lasting peace and stability". The organisation plans to use the lull to deliver food, water and medicine to towns like Madaya, where residents have reportedly been starving to death. It said it needs the approval of Syria's warring parties before it can further expand its deliveries. Efforts to deliver aid to Islamic State-besieged Deir al-Zour by air last week failed when several pallets were damaged, disappeared or landed in no-man's land. "Primarily we will try to deliver food by land because that is the most efficient way, it's the way that we can deliver the largest amounts of food but there are some areas of the country where we can't get across the front line," Greg Barrow, a spokesman for the UN World Food Programme, said. Almost 500,000 people live under siege in Syria, the UN estimated. More than 250,000 Syrians have been killed and a million injured due to more than five years civil war in the country. Around 11 million people were forced from their homes, of whom four million have fled abroad -- including growing numbers who are making the dangerous journey to Europe. Actor-comedian Kumarimuthu breathed his last here on Sunday at a private hospital. He was 77. "He passed away on Sunday night at Kauvery hospital due to some age-related ailments," a source close to the actor told IANS. Known for his comic roles, Kumarimuthu starred in nearly 50 films in his career spanning over three-decades. He was best known for his signature laugh. Some of his best films are "Idhu Namma Aalu", "Sahadevan Mahadevan", "Oru Oorla Oru Rajakumari" and "Marumagan". In his brief stint in politics, Kumarimuthu was a member of Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK). The toll from twin bombings at a busy marketplace in Baghdad, claimed by the Islamic State (IS) group, has risen to 53, an Iraqi interior ministry source said on Monday. "The latest report about Sunday's casualties is 53 killed and 117 others injured," Xinhua quoted the source as saying. A booby-trapped motorcycle went off at the crowded marketplace in the predominantly Shia district of Sadr city in the eastern part of the Iraqi capital, the source said. Minutes later, a suicide bomber blew himself up with his explosive vest at the site, the source added. The attackers apparently followed the old tactic of creating an initial explosion to attract security forces and people, and then setting off another blast to inflict heavier casualties. Iraq currently witnesses a fresh wave of violence since the IS group took control of Iraq's northern and western regions in June 2014. Earlier, a UN report estimated that more than 22,300 people were killed or injured in armed conflicts in Iraq in 2015. Many blame the current chronic instability, cycle of violence, and the emergence of extremist groups such as the IS on the US, which invaded Iraq in March 2003 under the pretext of seeking to destroy weapons of mass destruction (WMD) in the country. The US invasion led to the ouster and eventual execution of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, but no WMD was found. Donald Trump and Hillary Clinton have forged far ahead of their rivals nationally in the Republican and Democratic parties in the US presidential race before Super Tuesday's nomination contests in a dozen states. Capturing the support of nearly half of Republican voters, real estate mogul Trump tops all his four remaining opponents combined, while Clinton leads self-styled Democratic Socialist Bernie Sanders by nearly 20 points, according to a new nationwide CNN/ORC poll. Backed by 49 percent, Trump tops his nearest competitor Florida Senator Marco Rubio (16 percent) by more than 30 points. Only 15 percent back Texas Senator Ted Cruz, 10 percent back retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson and 6 percent support Ohio Governor John Kasich. Trump's supporters are incredibly enthusiastic about the coming election, and largely committed in their support for him. Trump is widely viewed as the candidate in the field who would be most effective at solving the country's problems. The billionaire is also seen as the one who best understands the problems facing people. On the Democratic side, Clinton tops Sanders 55 percent to 38 percent in the new poll, a slightly wider margin than she held in late January before any primaries or caucuses were held. There are sharper demographic splits among the Democratic electorate than on the Republican side. Men, younger voters, independents and liberals are all about evenly split between Clinton and Sanders, while Clinton's lead rests on large advantages among women, older voters, Democrats and moderates. Democrats are more apt than Republicans to say they would support either of the remaining top candidates should they become the nominee. Just 15 percent each say they wouldn't back Clinton or Sanders, the poll found. Clinton tops Sanders handily as the candidate who would be more effective at solving the country's problems and can better handle the responsibilities of being commander-in-chief, but Sanders fares better than Clinton on honesty. Meanwhile, with Trump leading in all the states going to the polls Tuesday except Texas, the New York Times said Trump has an opportunity to amass more delegates and put much more distance between him and Rubio and Cruz. As for the Democrats, Sanders is looking to rebound after a deeply lopsided loss to Hillary Clinton in the South Carolina primary, where more than half the voters were African-American, it said. (Arun Kumar can be contacted at arun.kumar@ians.in) The Turkish artillery forces has hit the Islamic State (IS) targets in Syria on Monday. Sixty artillery rounds were reportedly fired by the military on the IS targets in the north of Aleppo as part of the US-led coalition's operation against the terrorist group, Xinhua cited local broadcaster NTV as saying. Five targets were destroyed by the shells launched from the military units located near the southern Kilis province. Turkish air forces earlier participated in four airstrikes of the anti-IS coalition in Syria, while this is Turkish first artillery action with the allied forces. Turkish air forces were absent from the recent airstrikes in order to avoid any confrontation with Russia because the two countries are at odds since Turkey shot down a Russian warplane on November 24 last year. Russia has been carrying out airstrikes in Syria since September 30 in a bid to support Syrian President Bashar al-Assad's government. The trial of two Indo-Canadians, who were charged with first-degree murder and manslaughter, would start on March 1, a media report said. Gurjinder "Gary" Dhaliwal was charged with first-degree murder of teen Maple Batalia, while co-accused Gursimar Singh Bedi was charged with manslaughter with a firearm and being an accessory after the fact, a report in The Link newspaper said on Sunday. Their trial is now scheduled in British Columbia Supreme Court in New Westminster city in the Canadian province of British Columbia. Batalia, 19 at that time, was fatally shot at Surrey Simon Fraser University campus on September 28, 2011. Dhaliwal was her ex-boyfriend, and was charged, along with Bedi, in 2012. Batalia's family raised more than $50,000 for a bursary in her name, to benefit female students enrolled in Simon Fraser University's health sciences programme, the report said. The government on Monday described as "unfortunate" a letter written by 34 US lawmakers to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing concern over violence against religious minorities in India. "It is unfortunate that these members of Congress while applauding India as a pluralistic society with a longstanding commitment to inclusion and tolerance have chosen to focus on just a few incidents," external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup said in a statement. "India is proud of its status as the world's largest democracy. The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all its citizens, including minority communities. Aberrations, if any, are dealt with by our internal processes which include our independent judiciary, autonomous National Human Rights Commission, vigilant media, and vibrant civil society," he said. In the letter dated February 25 and released to the media by the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, the 34 US lawmakers said that their strong support for the US-India partnership has encouraged them "to relay our grave concerns about the increasing intolerance and violence members of India's religious minority communities experience". "We urge your government to take immediate steps to ensure the fundamental rights of religious minorities are protected and the perpetrators of violence are held to account," the letter stated. "Of particular concern is the treatment of India's Christian, Muslim and Sikh communities. On June 17, 2014, more than 50 village councils in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh adopted a resolution banning 'all non-Hindu religious propaganda, prayers and speeches' in their communities," it said. According to the US lawmakers, the ban "effectively has criminalised" the practice of Christianity by around 300 families in the region a day after a mob, including members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Bajrang Dal, attacked and injured six Christians at the village of Sireiguda. "Since the ban was implemented, Christians in the Bastar district reportedly have been subjected to physical assaults, denial of government services, extortion, threats of forced expulsion, denial of access to food and water, and pressure to convert to Hinduism," they alleged. Stating that they were also concerned about the "nearly country-wide beef ban", the US lawmakers referred to the killing of Mohammad Hasmat Ali in Manipur in November for stealing a cow and the murder of Mohammad Saif in Uttar Pradesh in September. The letter also called for recognition of Sikhism as a distinct religion as not doing so prevented practitioners of the religion "from accessing social services and employment and educational preferences available to other religious communities". "Mr. Prime Minister, we applaud India as a pluralistic society with a long-standing commitment to inclusion and tolerance," it stated. "We also applaud your statements about religious freedom and communal harmony, including your promise in February 2014 that your government would 'ensure that there is complete freedom of faith... and not allow any religious group, belonging to the majority or minority, to incite hatred against others'. We urge you to turn these words into action by publicly condemning the ban on non-Hindu faiths in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, and the violent assaults and other forms of harassment against religious minorities throughout India," it stated, adding that steps should be taken against activities of groups such as the RSS. The letter was signed by Senators Roy Blunt, Amy Klobuchar, James Alankford, Al Franken, Tim Scott, Ben Sasse, John Boozman and Steve Daines and 26 members of the House of Representatives, including Joseph R. Pitts, Keith Ellison, Brad Wenstrup, Jim Costa, Trent Franks, Ted Poe and Mark Walker. In his statement on Monday describing the US lawmakers' letter as unfortunate, Swarup reiterated that the Indian government was "fully committed to the constitutional principles which underpin the nation of 1.25 billion people as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society". An American student detained in North Korea confessed at a press conference in Pyongyang on Monday that he tried to steal a political banner from the hotel he was staying in. Otto Frederick Warmbier, a student at the University of Virginia, acknowledged, in his first public appearance since his arrest, that he tried to steal a banner, with a political slogan, from an area reserved for staff at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, local North Korean media sai. The 21-year-old student, whose confession could have been forced by North Korean authorities, admitted to having been encouraged by a Protestant church in Ohio in the US, and also said the US government was involved, EFE news reported. On January 22, North Korea announced that the student had been arrested for committing "hostile acts" against the regime but did not follow it up with details. The student is one of the three Westerners, who are being detained in North Korea for alleged acts against the Kim Jong-un regime. The other two are Hyeon Soo Lim, a Korean-Canadian pastor sentenced to life in prison, and South Korean-American citizen Kim Dong Chul. In October, Pyongyang released a New York University student, who had been detained for six months for entering the country illegally. Domestic passenger carrier Vistara on Monday announced that it will reconfigure the seat arrangements on its fleet of nine aircraft starting April. According to the company, the move will help it meet passengers' demands. "The change in our cabin configuration is a result of extensive research of the changing market environment and customer expectations. Being a young and nimble airline, we were able to adjust quickly to meet the evolving needs of the market and our customers," said Phee Teik Yeoh, chief executive of Vistara. The reconfiguration will enable the airline to have eight business class seats, 24 premium economy seats and 126 economy seats on its aircraft. This change will raise the total number of seats on Vistara's aircraft from 148 to 158. The passenger carrier disclosed that the reconfiguration exercise is expected to be completed in two phases in April and July 2016. The company added that the first retrofitted aircraft is expected to be deployed between Delhi and Hyderabad from April 2016. One of the most worrying features of this year's Budget for the salaried middle class is a 60 per cent tax on retirement corpus created from the employees' provident fund (EPF) and superannuation fund. This the first time that PF withdrawal is being taxed. A saving grace is that the tax is only on contributions made after April 1, 2016. This means it will hit employees several years down the line. In the run-up to the Budget, there had been a debate on the desirability of sticking to fiscal consolidation. The Economic Survey tantalisingly presented both sides of the argument. The decision in the Budget was as important to the fiscal health of India, as exam numbers were to the students the Prime Minister addressed on Sunday. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley mentioned the social sector in his first set of priorities, in addition to rural India and infrastructure. For the social sector, he mentioned three schemes: A crop insurance programme, a health insurance scheme for a third of the population and a cooking gas scheme for below-poverty-line families. The purpose in each of the schemes addresses a major issue in the life and livelihood security of some of our most vulnerable households. Given that the minister listed these together is by itself commendable. It shows his advisors and he appreciate that no single item will solve the problems faced by the vulnerable. Only when everything that negatively affects livelihood is addressed will vulnerability be mitigated. I commend the minister for his approach. The first trial flight today landed at the newly-constructed International airport here in north Kerala, one of the flagship projects of the Congress-led UDF government. Kerala Chief Minister Oommen Chandy said the airport would speed up the growth of tourism and handloom industries of the northern part of Kerala. Thousands of locals gathered to witness the event and cheered when a 228-Dornier aircraft of Indian Air Force touched down at about 9.00 AM at the airport nearby Matanoor. Air Marshal R Nambiar, hailing from Kannur, was the flight pilot, which had five other officials. Chandy and his Cabinet colleagues K C Joseph, K Babu and K P Mohanan were among those present at the event. However, representatives of the CPI(M)-led LDF Opposition and BJP boycotted the function. Hitting out at the Opposition for not attending the event, he said people were not interested in controversies. They were with development, he said. "People will rebuff with contempt those who oppose growth.... The thousands who came to witness the function is a clear pointer to this," Chandy said. The Chief Minister said the opposition has the right to criticise but people would not approve their stand of stalling development activities. Kannur Airport will be the fourth international airport in the state. The others being in Thiruvananthapuram, Kochi and Kozhikode. It is expected to be commercially operational in September. Built at an estimated cost of Rs 1,892 crore, it is the second airport to be built under PPP route after Nedumbassery International Airport at Kochi. Expansion of the airport is proposed in two stages. In the first phase, facilities would be made to link countries like UAE, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Hong Kong and Singapore. The state government has 35 per cent stake in the Kannur International Airport Ltd Company that will run it. Public Sector Undertakings has 25 per cent shares, Private participation 30 per cent and KIAL 10 per cent. Construction work of the airport was inaugurated by then Defence Minister and senior Congress leader A K Antony on February 2, 2014. : An autorickshaw driver was among two men killed when the motorcyle they were riding was rammed by a lorry from the rear in the city, police said. They said the duo were returning from the bus stand to Veerapanchatram village yesterday when the lorry hit the two wheeler from the rear near a government school. The two were thrown off and the back wheels of the lorry went over them killing them on the spot. The lorry driver fled the spot and a search was on to nab him, police said. Two persons were today killed and four others injured when the car in which they were travelling collided with a truck on the Kanpur-Varanasi highway near Jehanabad here, police said. The occupants of the car were on their way to Samastipur in Bihar from Delhi when they met with the accident in Hathigava police station area, they said. While Raju alias Randhir Rai (28) died on the spot, Surendra alias Phuchu (40) succumbed to injuries at a hospital in Allahabad where he was rushed alongwith the other injured, police added. The seventh Indo-Seychelles joint training exercises, aiming to improve interoperability between both armies in counter-insurgency operations, today concluded at Victoria, Mahe Island in Seychelles. Focused on interoperability in drills pertaining to counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism, a number of activities and exercises were conducted during the joint training. It culminated today with a cordon and search operations, enmeshed with hostage rescue operations in an anti-piracy setting at Cape Ternay, with realistic orchestration of events extending over two days in an urban insurgency environment, an Army statement said. An Indian contingent, comprising an infantry platoon and representatives from the special forces, attended the exercise 'Lamitye - 2016'. The Seychelles People's Defence Forces (SPDF) was represented by the Tazar (Special Forces Unit) and Seychelles Infantry. A total of 52 personnel from the SPDF took part in the exercise, including 20 from Tazar. 'Exercise Lamitye' meaning 'Friendship' in Creole has been a bridge between the armed forces of India and Seychelles since 2001. Sources said that at least two terror camps were struck during the surgical strikes. "We can't allow terrorists to operate across the LoC. There has been a surge in infiltration," Gen Singh said. Gen Singh said the operation to neutralise terrorists has since ceased and "we don't have any plans for any further operation as of now" but added the armed forces will not allow terrorists to carry out any attacks in J and K or any major Indian cities. He said the strikes were launched after getting "very specific and credible" intelligence input that the infiltrators were being pushed to carry out attacks in Jammu and Kashmir and in some major Indian cities. The announcement of the strikes was made soon after Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a meeting of Cabinet Committee on Security(CCS) which was attended by Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj, Home Minister Rajnath Singh, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Army Chief Dalbir Singh Suhag and DGMO Singh. Gen Singh said there were 20 infiltration bids on the border into India recently. He said there were Pakistani markings on GPS systems and on other recoveries made from them. He said some terrorists were caught were residents of Pakistan. He said they were given training there. "Despite our persistent urging that Pakistan respect its commitment made in January 2004 not to allow its soil or territory under its control to be used for terrorism against India, there have been no let up in infiltrations or terrorist actions inside our territory," he said. Singh further said, "If the damage has been limited it has been primarily due to the efforts of soldiers of Indian army who are deployed in a multi-tier counter infiltration grid and most of the infiltration bids have been foiled at those locations. The Indian armed forces have been extremely vigilant in the face of continuing threat. Drug firm Abbott India today announced the resignation of its Managing Director Rehan A Khan. "Rehan A Khan has vide his letter dated February 29, 2016, tendered resignation as the Managing Director and Director of the company to pursue career opportunity overseas," Abbott India said in a BSE filing. His resignation shall be effective close of business hours on April 30, 2016, it added. In another development, Kaiyomarz Marfatia has ceased to be a whole-time director of the company upon completion of his term with effect from February 29, 2016, Abbott India said. "He continues as the non-executive director of the company, subject to retirement by rotation," it added. Abbott India stock today closed 0.48 per cent down at Rs 4,792.45 on BSE. Academy president Cheryl Boone Issacs called on Hollywood to continue the conversation about inclusion, at the 88th Oscars. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences has been at the receiving end of criticism since excluding black actors from the nominations last month. Issacs took to stage to state how important diversity is in Hollywood. "The Oscars celebrate the storytellers, who have the opportunity to work in the powerful medium of the film. And with that opportunity, comes responsibility. "Our audiences are global and rich in diversity and every facet of the industry as well. Everyone in the Hollywood community has a role to play in bringing about the change. The Academy board of governors recently took a concrete action and sent a message to make us all stronger," she said. Actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, BJP President Amit Shah and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari today launched the first official poster of "Sarbjit" here. Directed by Omung Kumar, the movie is based on Indian convict Sarabjit Singh, who died following an assault by fellow prisoners at a Pakistani jail. The event at the residence of the BJP president was also attended by the producers of the film, Vashu Bhagnani, Bhushan Kumar and Sandeep Singh, along with actress Richa Chadda and "Mary Kom" actor Darshan Kumar. Aishwarya is playing Sarabjit's sister Dalbir Kaur while Randeep Hooda will be seen in the titular role. Shah, who was impressed by the selection of the subject, wished the team good luck. "I would like to congratulate the makers for choosing this subject. This a story of an Indian who spent his whole life in anonymity and the struggle his sister went through to bring him back to his country. I wish the team good luck. "I hope the message this film carries reaches every corner of the country because such stories inspire a lot of people," he said. The first poster of the movie features Aishwarya in a de-glam avatar wearing spectacles. The tension and the struggle her character goes through is depicted through the rustic background with 'Sarbjit' written in bold red letters on it. The actress, whose last outing was "Jazbaa", thanked the makers for giving her the chance to portray such a strong character. "It is a subject we all are very familiar with. And we as a team were very keen to share the story with those who don't know about it in detail. "It's very important for us as a nation to understand, respect and recognise the struggle. I would like to say thank you for giving me this opportunity to essay the part of a lady I immensely respect. It's an absolute honour," she said. Gadkari, the Union minister for Road Transport, Highways and Shipping, felt the film would send an inspiring message to the youth of the country. "This subject is very important for our country and people. It is a sensitive story. It showcases the beautiful brother-sister relationship. I believe the youth will get new inspiration from the film. We all wish the movie good luck," he said. Omung, who won the national award for his directorial debut "Mary Kom" starring Priyanka Chopra, said the purpose of launching the poster on the political stage was to convey that the movie is on a serious subject which needs to be treated in the same manner. "It is a political story. We wanted to create awareness about the film in a different way. It is a serious story and a serious business. That is the reason why we chose to get the first official poster launched by Amit Shah ji and Gadkari ji," he said. The life story of Sarabjit will be narrated through his sister Dalbir Kaur's character, who struggled for her brother's freedom and justice for 23 years. The movie that recently completed its third schedule in Amritsar and Wagah border is slated for release on May 20. Rising Swedish star Alicia Vikander won the best supporting actress Oscar for her role of portrait artist Gerda Wegener in Tom Hooper's semi- biographical drama "The Danish Girl". Based on David Ebershoff's novel of the same name, the movie narrates the life of Lili Elbe (Eddie Redmayne), one of the first known recipients of sex reassignment surgery. As Wegener, Vikander gave a compassionate performance as Gerda, who struggles to come to terms with her husband's decision to become a woman but eventually ends up being his biggest moral support. Vikander, 27, was a surprise early winner in the category which many thought belonged to Kate Winslet as she had won the Golden Globe and Bafta awards. Winslet was nominated for "Steve Jobs" while other nominees in the category were Jennifer Jason Leigh for "The Hateful Eight", Rooney Mara for "Carol" and Rachel McAdams for "Spotlight". The young star looked emotional as she took to stage to accept her award from last year's best supporting actor winner J K Simmons. "Thank you Academy for this recognition. I share my award with my incredible crew from the film. Thank you my director Tom (Hooper), thank you Eddie for being the best acting partner. In the end, I would like to thank my mom and dad who believed in me," the actress said as she rushed through her speech. Many thought that Vikander should have been nominated in the best actress category but she certainly had a better shot in the supporting role. The Sweden native's other roles include "A Royal Affair", "Testament of Youth" and "Ex Machina". The early Oscar win is sure to give her rising career a major boost. Senior IPS officer Alok Kumar Verma on Monday took charge as the new Commissioner of Delhi Police (DP) at a time it is battling mounting criticism over handling of the JNU row. Verma succeeds B S Bassi who was at loggerheads with the AAP government on a range of issues in the last one year. Verma, a 1979 batch IPS officer of the AGMUT (Arunachal Pradesh-Goa-Mizoram and Union Territory) cadre, was serving as the Director General of Tihar jail. He assumes charge of Delhi Police when it is battling mounting criticism over handling of the JNU row. Verma, who had joined as DG of Tihar on August 6, 2014 after serving as Special Commissioner of Police (Administration), is set to retire after 17 months. He served Delhi Police in number of positions, including Deputy Commissioner of Police, South District, Joint Commissioner of the Crime Branch, Joint Commissioner of Police, New Delhi Range, Special CP (Intelligence) and Special CP, Vigilance. He had served as the Inspector General of Police in Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Director General of Police (DGP) of Puducherry. On his retirement, Bassi was given a farewell at the Police Headquarters on Monday. (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.) Tapan Kumar Chand, CMD of state-run Nalco has been elected as the president of Aluminium Association of India (AAI). Chand was elected unanimously at the National Governing Council Meeting of the AAI held here. AAI is the apex body representing the entire spectrum of Indian aluminium industry and is a part of the world association, Nalco said in a release. Earlier, the post of president was held by S K Roongta, former chairman of SAIL and Vedanta Group. On assuming the post of president, Chand welcomed the Union Budget 2016-17, describing it as a balanced budget with focus on growth. "On behalf of all the primary, secondary and downstream aluminium producers, I thank the government for its proposal to increase the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on primary aluminium from five per cent to 7.5 per cent and on aluminium products from 7.5 per cent to ten per cent. This move will help Indian aluminium industry by checking influx of cheap imports," he said. However, the industry's expectation was a five per cent increase in BCD, he said. Prof K S S Murthy, General Secretary of AAI, under Chand, AAI would have assertive and affirmative approach in promoting consumption of aluminium and boosting the growth of the aluminium industry. The AAI further announced that the next International Conference on Aluminium (INCAL) would be organised in Bhubaneswar, wherein all overseas associations would take part. The theme of the event would be 'Make in India : Aluminium the Strategic Metal,' the release said. Amnesty International today called for an arms embargo on all warring parties in Yemen, including the Saudi-led coalition battling Iran-backed rebels, ahead of an Arms Trade Treaty meeting in Geneva. The rights watchdog said it has documented violations of humanitarian and human rights law, including possible war crimes, by both sides since the Yemen conflict broadened in March last year. "Amnesty International is urging all states to ensure that no party to the conflict in Yemen is supplied -- either directly or indirectly -- with weapons, munitions, military equipment or technology that would be used in the conflict until they end such serious violations," it said in a statement. The group called "for any authorisation of arms transfers to any party to the Yemen conflict to include a strict, legally binding guarantee that the end use will be in line with international humanitarian and human rights law, and that such arms transfers will not be used in Yemen", it said. "The embargo call goes far beyond existing international sanctions on parties to the conflict in Yemen," it added. UN Security Council Resolution 2216, adopted in April last year, imposed an arms embargo only on the Huthi rebels and their allies, forces loyal to former president Ali Abdullah Saleh, it said. A non-binding European Parliament resolution adopted on February 25 "called for the EU to seek to impose an arms embargo on Saudi Arabia, but not other parties to the conflict", Amnesty added. But Amnesty said it "is not calling for a total ban on coalition members acquiring arms lawfully for legitimate uses outside Yemen -- for example, arms used for the protection of humanitarian aid or participation in peacekeeping operations". The United Nations warned this month of a "human catastrophe unfolding in Yemen", where it says more than 6,100 people had been killed in the fighting since last March. It says another 3,000 people had been wounded and 2.5 million people forced to flee their homes. In March 2015, Saudi Arabia began leading a military campaign against the Shiite rebels and their allies in its southern neighbour. The Arms Trade Treaty, an accord laying down international rules for the global arms trade, entered into force in December 2014. It compels countries to set up national controls on arms exports. States must assess whether an exported weapon could circumvent an international embargo, be used for genocide and war crimes, or be used by "terrorists" and organised crime. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu today asked Vice-Chancellors of universities in the state to "restore glory" of the institutions and also transform them into skill development centres. Interacting with the VCs in his office today, the Chief Minister said, "Universities must be places of invention, innovative ideas, with the faculty training students to increase their knowledge." Some untoward incidents in the recent past brought bad name to some universities. You should initiate corrective measures immediately to erase that bad name and restore glory of the universities," Naidu said. Noting that the future leadersand youngentrepreneurs were madeon the campuses, he wanted the universities to adopt a "constructive approach" to inculcate leadership qualities among students. The Chief Minister said the government recently appointed industrialists as members of the universities' senates to drive their growth and assist students in providing opportunities for skill development. Apple wants a "conversation" to help settle a standoff with the lawmakers over accessing an encrypted iPhone, according to testimony prepared for a congressional hearing. In a statement prepared for a hearing Tuesday, Apple general counsel Bruce Sewell said the public should understand that "encryption is a good thing, a necessary thing" even if it makes the work of law enforcement more difficult. The hearing was called with Apple and FBI locked in battle over a warrant seeking to force Apple to help unlock the iPhone used by one of the shooters in last year's San Bernardino attacks. Apple's refusal has set off an intense political debate about encrypted devices which provide "keys" only to users. In his remarks, Sewell said Apple has been stepping up its encryption over the past few years. "As attacks on our customers' data become increasingly sophisticated, the tools we use to defend against them must get stronger too," he said. "Weakening encryption will only hurt consumers and other well-meaning users who rely on companies like Apple to protect their personal information." He added that around the world encryption and other methods help preserve privacy "and it keeps people safe." Sewell said the question of access to the locked iPhone is a question that lawmakers and the public should decide, renewing Apple's criticism of the use of the broad 1789 All Writs Act that offers broad authority to law enforcement. "The American people deserve an honest conversation around the important questions stemming from the FBI's current demand," he said. Bangladesh's Supreme Court today stayed a High Court order granting bail to a woman lawyer and two of her associates arrested for allegedly financing a new Islamist militant group for weapon procurement. The five-member apex court bench led by Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha stayed their bail until March 20 extending an earlier issued timeframe in line with a petition by the attorney general's office. Elite anti-crime Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) had arrested Barrister Shakila Farzana, the daughter of a former BNP lawmaker from Chittagong, and two of her lawyer associates in the Supreme Court on August 15 on charges of financing a little known Islamist outfit called Shahid Hamza Brigade (SHB). The High Court on February 22 granted them bail, which was immediately challenged by the state which sought to get the order reverses by the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court. RAB earlier said the three were arrested after the elite force gathered information that they provided Taka 10 million (USD 126359) to SHB for weapon procurement. The trio, however, claimed that they had deposited the amount to an account which was taken as advance and that they were unaware of the owner of the account. RAB said the account was owned by top SHB leader Moniruzzaman Don, who is in jail now. Bangladesh identified SHB last year finding them active in southeastern port city of Chittagong after four of their members were arrested with weapons including five AK-22 rifles. According to security officials, SHB, a relatively small group, was formed in 2013 with a mission to stage an armed revolution against the "oppression of Muslims" at home and abroad. Farzana is the incumbent joint general secretary of the Supreme Court wing of Jatiyatabadi Ainjibi Forum, a grouping of lawyers who support main opposition BNP of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. Punjab Chief Minister Parkash Singh Badal today hailed the Union Budget 2016-17 as "pro-farmer, growth oriented, balanced and realistic" and thanked Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for allocating Rs 100 crore for the 350th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Gobind Singh. Calling it an "unprecedented" decision, Badal said the allocation for observing the tenth Sikh Guru's birthday celebrations was a matter of great pride and a "supreme gift" for Sikhs across the globe. He welcomed the government's allocation of nearly Rs 36,000 crore for the farm sector and the raising of agri-credit target to Rs 9 lakh crore for the next fiscal, saying the measures would go a long way in ensuring well-being of the agricultural community. He said it was a matter of great satisfaction and pride that the NDA government almost doubled the budgetary provisions for Agriculture sector in fiscal 2016-17 over the current financial year. Badal also expressed happiness over the decision to encourage farmers to take up allied farming activities to supplement their income. He hailed the decision of creating a dedicated long-term irrigation fund in NABARD with an initial corpus of Rs 20,000 crore to build irrigation facilities and initiation of a programme for sustainable management of ground water resources at an estimated cost of Rs 6,000 crore. The Chief Minister also welcomed a health insurance scheme which protects one-third of India's population against hospitalisation expenditure and decision to provide BPL families with a cooking gas connection, supported by a government subsidy. He said the move to set up a Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) and of 1500 Multi Skill Training Institutes across the country was a step towards providing gainful employment to youth. The Chief Minister said announcements like introduction of an animal wellness programme ('Pashudhan Sanjivani') and provision of Animal Health Cards ('Nakul Swasthya Patra'), creation of 'E-Pashudhan Haat' -- an e-market portal for connecting breeders and farmers, and a National Genomic Centre for indigenous breeds would go a long way in making allied farming sector more remunerative to farmers. Badal also welcomed the announcement about developing 300 Rurban Clusters under the Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Rurban Mission, saying they would act as incubators of growth in rural areas by providing infrastructure and market access to farmers. (Reopens NRG 25) Meanwhile, Punjab Congress chief Amarinder Singh today termed the Union Budget "most disappointing" and said it "failed" on everybody's expectations. "The budget lacks vision and direction and has ended up as mere annual ritual without spelling out agenda for growth we have been hearing for the past two years," he said. The PPCC president alleged the agriculture sector does not figure prominently in the Budget. "There has been no provision for providing relief to the debt-ridden farmers driven to despair and suicides in so many states. Leave aside waiving off their debt, there is not even nominal relief or word of consolation for them," the MP said. The sagging morale of Gujarat BJP workers after the loss in local body polls and the Patel quota agitation has worried party President Amit Shah, who feels that it could be a serious impediment for fighting the state Assembly elections in 2017. BJP is a cadre-based party which is dependent on its workers for its victories in elections. Even as Shah accepted that there is "disappointment" among the party workers, the task cut out for the BJP is huge. Shah, on Saturday, had organised a big party workers meet where he gave a pep talk accepting that sitting in Delhi, he could see the dampening morale of Gujarat BJP workers. He had also said publicly that BJP cannot afford to lose Gujarat as it is a "laboratory" of ideology of Sangh Parivar. In his pep talk, he called on party workers to leave behind all "disappointments, infighting and work collectively" for the 2017 polls. Shah said that as the 2012 state elections was the stepping stone for 2014 Lok Sabha win, in the same way 2017 victory will pave the way for win in 2019 national elections. Patel, a numerically and socially influential caste in Gujarat, are up in arms against the state government for the last six months demanding quota. Agitation had turned violent killing 10 people and damaging public and private properties worth crores of rupees. Acting tough against the leaders of quota agitation like Hardik Patel and his team, the state government has put them behind bars in sedition cases. There is a simmering discontent among a large section of the Patel community as their quota agitation leaders are behind bars since last four months. This, according to political pandits, led to the BJP debacle in the local bodies polls where it lost badly to opposition Congress in the district and taluka panchayats elections. Absence of popular leaders like Narendra Modi from the political scene of the state, who had defeated Congress in elections after elections, was also a factor for the party's dipping spirits in Gujarat. "All this things have affected the morale of the party cadres and Amitbhai Shah was able to recognise it. The party is passing through a bad phase in Gujarat for the first time after the 2001," a party leader said. That is why a mega workers meet was organised by the party in which Shah came to boost the party workers, he said. "We have more than one crore party workers. We win elections on the basis of work by workers. I am sure that on their strength we will come out victorious in the 2017 Assembly polls," newly-elected president of Gujarat BJP Vijay Rupani said. Shah had also asserted that party will rise like a Phoenix to win Gujarat. "Congress leaders do not know that BJP is like a Phoenix, which will rise from the ashes," he had said. The BJP's youth wing Yuva Morcha today held a march in the city today raising the slogan of "anti-nationals quit India." Later, addressing a function organised by Mangaluru Rashtra Jagruti Samiti at the town hall here, national media co-convenor of BJP Yuva Morcha Nupur Sharma, who had contestedunsuccessfully against Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal last year, strongly criticised opposition leaders for takingup the Jawaharlal Nehru University issue for political gains. She said "self- proclaimed anti-nationals should be thrown out of the country. Such activities were going on in the JNU for the last 15 years and the situation changed after the NDA government came to power," she claimed. Afzal Guru was hanged in connection with the attack on the Parliament on February 9, 2013 and his death was being observed as Martyr's Day in JNU for the last three years. He was a terrorist who was given the death penalty by the Supreme Court. The soldiers of India who had sacrificed their lives for the nation to protect us were the only citizens to be considered as martyrs, she said. S M Asha, wife of soldier Nagesh who died in the Siachen avalanche recently, was present at the function. The Thai consulate here received a hoax e-mail and a telephone call this morning about presence of a bomb on its premises, triggering panic among the staff. Deputy Commissioner of Police (South-East) Gaurav Sharma told PTI, an e-mail stating explosives have been placed inside the building was received on the official address of Royal Thai Consulate-General at around 7.35 am and the call was made to the office at around 9.55 am. Officials at the consulate informed Gariahat police station and a bomb disposal squad and a dog squad were rushed. The building was evacuated and a thorough search was conducted but nothing was found and the police declared the call and the mail as hoax. "We have not found anything ... It was a hoax call. We are checking who is behind this," Sharma said, adding the police were trying to locate the number from which the call was made. He did not say anything on the e-mail. According to an officer at the Consulate, the e-mail was noticed at around 9.35 am soon after the office opened. "We received the call at around 9.55 am from a person who identified himself as Mr Ghosh from the Intelligence Bureau (IB) telling us that explosives have reached our office and we must inform the police. The person did not disclose which department of the IB he was calling from despite asking repeatedly and hung up midway," the officer said.. . (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.) Holding that Union "lacks flavour" with no specific schemes, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa today said it failed to meet the "higher expectations" of the people of the state. While expressing concern over the proposal to privatise road transport sector, Jayalalithaa, however, welcomed proposals such as the Health Insurance Scheme which she said was 'similar' to the one being implemented by her government.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 "This lacks flavour as it does not have any specific announcements of schemes which would have enthused different segments including the states. It also does not speak of the status of implementation of many schemes announced last year and the year before," she said. "The people of Tamil Nadu had still higher expectations, which have not been met," she said in a statement reacting to the presented by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. She said the emphasis on agriculture and rural income were 'welcome' but asserted that doubling of farm income in five years, a 'laudable' objective, should be done in real terms. The Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana is a welcome initiative but the allocation of Rs 5,500 crore appeared "grossly inadequate," she said. The increased outlay for the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana also "responds to the request I have made to the Prime Minister" to ensure speedy completion of approved projects in the state, she said. On the launch of the National Rural Digital Literacy Mission, she said it was "a recognition" of her government's free laptop scheme for school and college students, aimed at bridging the digital divide. Welcoming the announcement to provide LPG connections to poor families, she said it was "aimed at reducing domestic drudgery- the same objective with which her government took up the scheme for distribution of fans, mixies and grinders". She urged the Centre to ensure that states like Tamil Nadu which already had sizeable coverage under LPG connections were not left out under the proposed scheme. She said schemes for selling generic medicines and Health Protection were "very similar" to her government's 'Amma Marunthagam' (pharmacies) and the Chief Minister's Comprehensive Health Insurance scheme. Requesting the Centre to converge the new health protection scheme with that of Tamil Nadu's, she said it would not only enable smoother rollout of the Central initiative but also reduce overlap and administrative burden. (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.) G P Hinduja, co-chairman of the Hinduja Group, today hailed the Indian Budget as "pragmatic and prudent" but lamented the lack of incentive for NRIs who he termed as the "natural resource base" of the country. "Every budget has two sides. It is impossible to satisfy everyone but one has to look to the basics, whether the budget is going to help the economy," Hinduja said. "Looking to the demand for fiscal reforms on one side and the challenge of global headwinds on the other, the government's decision to adhere to fiscal consolidation makes the budget pragmatic and prudent," he said. The Budget for 2016-17 today offered sops for small and marginal income tax payers, hiked the surcharge by 3 per cent on earnings above Rs 1 crore and envisaged a huge spending of Rs 1.77 lakh crore in rural areas to address the agrarian distress among other steps. On the positive facets of the budget, Hinduja said, "Coupled with agriculture, rural and infrastructure spending, plus roads and highways, the economy will have a resultant effect of bottom-up demand and generation of job creation." "The auto sector will stand to benefit by the proposed amendment to the Motor Vehicles Act to allow private sector participation in passenger vehicles segment," he said. On government's move to come out with one time four-month compliance window for domestic black money holders to come clean by paying tax and penalty of 45 per cent, Hinduja said, "The amnesty window for unaccounted money is a good initiative. It could have been more effective if the percentage of penalty was lower." Jaitley, however, has made clear that the compliance window is neither Voluntary Disclosure of Income Scheme nor amnesty. "Tax on dividend above Rs 10 lakh is a big disincentive to promoters and large investors. Bank recapitalisation is a welcome move," Hinduja said. "However, we don't see any incentive for NRIs who are the natural resource base of the country," he added. Congress in Goa today dubbed the Union Budget as being "full of rhetoric" and said some of its proposals are going to adversely impact tourism sector, the backbone of the state's economy. "The Budget is high on drama and rhetoric. It shows how serious the Narendra Modi government is about its promise of ushering in "ache din" (good days). This Budget is going to kill Goa's tourism for good," Goa Pradesh Congress Committee General Secretary Sunil Kawathankar said. "The Budget is a long list of disappointments. Goa's tourism-driven economy is already reeling under Swachh Bharat cess and this new 0.5 per cent Krishi Kalyan Cess to be levied on all services is going to make living more expensive. "So expect more expensive trips to shops, restaurants and hotels. An additional infrastructure and agriculture cess will make tourism costly in Goa, which is already considered as one of the most expensive tourist destinations in India and world too," he added. "A pollution cess of 1 per cent on small petrol cars, 2.5 per cent on diesel cars of certain specifications and 4 per cent tax on higher capacity sedans will upset taxis and private car operators. Travelling will become dearer." "After making a lot of noise about Make in India, it is shocking to see Minimum Alternate Tax (MAT) of 20 per cent being levied on startups. "This totally does away the so called advantages which were supposed to be provided to startups," he said. Kawathankar said the Modi government, which promised to bring back black money, has allowed the banks to write-off loan defaults to the tune of over Rs 125 lakh crore. "The list of defaulters include many of its dearest corporate allies," he charged. "Rather than getting all the money back, the Centre has not only allowed the defaults to be written off but has no credible plan for strengthening banks with just Rs 25,000 crore earmarked for recapitalisation," Kawathankar said. "A three-fold increase in Securities Transaction Tax (STT) on sale of an option will be a huge deterrent for new entrants and also affect established players in the stock markets," the Congress leader said. "Goa, just like the rest of India, shall witness some high skills migration abroad as high net-worth individuals will be hit hard on increase in surcharge to 15 per cent. They shall also be facing Dividend Distribution Tax of 10 per cent in case dividend is over Rs 10 lakh," Kawathankar said. Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari is launching a probe after week-long clashes between Muslim herdsmen and Christian farmers left "hundreds" dead, officials said today. Fulani herdsmen and four farming communities armed with guns and machetes battled last week in the latest round of violence of a long-running battle over grazing rights in central Nigeria. The predominantly Muslim Fulani have been blamed for waves of attacks on mainly Christian agrarian groups as tension grows in the central state of Benue over access to land and public services. Many houses in the Agatu local government area were razed and properties destroyed before security agents restored peace on Saturday. "I can tell you that hundreds of lives were lost in the violence between the Fulani cattle rearers and the four communities," Benue governor aide Dehen Igbana told AFP. "The government has set up a board of inquiry and the team is expected to visit the area any moment from now," Igbana said. Yesterday evening, Buhari said he was in "deep shock at the latest incident" and called for Nigerians to live together in harmony. "We will conduct an investigation to know exactly what happened," Buhari said in a statement. "There should not be any reason why Nigerians of any group or tongue cannot now reside with one another." State police spokesman Moses Yamu said four corpses were recovered during an inspection on Saturday and that security had since been beefed up in the area. "The place is now calm," Yamu said. Benue is part of Nigeria's "middle belt", where the mainly Christian south meets the predominantly Muslim north. Though often portrayed as the aggressors in central Nigeria's sectarian strife, the minority Fulani complain of suffering from inferior treatment in Benue and neighbouring Plateau state. Despite living in the region for years, the Fulani are not considered indigenous to the area and have reduced access to land, education and political power in the region where most key positions are held by members of Christian ethnic groups. Prime Minister David Cameron today wrote a passionate coloumn to launch the first new national daily in the UK in 30 years to call for Britain to stay in the European Union. 'New Day', launched by the Trinity Mirror Group, publishers of 'Daily Mirror' and 'Sunday Mirror' newspapers, is the first "standalone daily national newspaper" to be launched in the country. "The choice is clear: between a greater Britain and the great unknown. I hope readers will choose certainty and prosperity over speculation and risk. Then we can carry on making this great country greater still," Cameron wrote in reference to the referendum on June 23 when the British public will vote on whether to stay in or leave the European Union (EU). "We need to take the decision that leaves us stronger, safer and better off - and I'm clear that means a decision to stay in a reformed European Union. Those who wish to leave Europe don't have that clarity. They tell you the grass would be greener - but they can't or won't say how," he wrote. Two million copies of 'New Day' are being distributed free on Monday. From Tuesday, it will cost 25p for two weeks before rising to 50p. Trinity Mirror Group hopes to sell about 200,000 copies a day. The editor, Alison Phillips, who previously headed the 'Sunday Mirror' and 'Sunday People' at the group, said the 'New Day' was predicated on an alternative way of thinking about how a newspaper should work. "Because we've started from scratch, we've thrown out all the previous thinking on how a newspaper should be structured and started with a blank piece of paper. The idea is that this paper should give you in 40 pages everything on any given day in a 30-minute read, without being bombarded with content you don't need," she said. The newspaper has no dedicated website and has just 25 staff, something the publisher hopes could make it profitable quickly. It is the first new national paper since the launch of 'i', a slimmed-down version of the 'Independent' which went on sale in October 2010. However, Trinity Mirror claims it is the first standalone title since the Independent's own debut in 1986. Simon Fox, chief executive of Trinity Mirror, said: "Over a million people have stopped buying a newspaper in the past two years but we believe a large number of them can be tempted back with the right product". "Revitalising print is a core part of our strategy in parallel with digital transformation and there doesn't have to be a choice between the two - newspapers can live in the digital age if they have been designed to offer something different," Fox said. The newspaper describes itself as "upbeat" and "politically neutral". Canada has met a self-imposed deadline to accept 25,000 Syrian refugees fleeing their country's civil war, officials said, fulfilling a campaign promise by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. "25000 reasons why Canadians should be proud today #WelcomeRefugees," Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister John McCallum tweeted after a charter flight carrying refugees touched down in Montreal yesterday. Trudeau had made a campaign pledge to take in 25,000 Syrian refugees from Lebanon, Jordan and Turkey before the end of 2015. But his Liberal government pushed the target back two months after taking office following elections in October. Canada has chartered around a hundred flights from Lebanon and Jordan since Trudeau met the first arriving plane in December. The government's resettlement program will cover costs for more than half the refugees during their first year. Private groups or a combination of both will cover the rest, the country's immigration authorities said. Syrian refugees will continue to arrive in Canada, albeit at a slower pace. The country is set to take in some 12,000 more refugees by the end of the year under a program run jointly with the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), the immigration authorities said. Some 250 Canadian cities and towns have taken in refugees so far. The UNHCR has contacted nearly 70,000 Syrians living in refugee camps in Lebanon and Jordan about emigrating to Canada. Fewer than half said they were interested. Europe's migrant crisis became a political issue in Canada during last year's election campaign. Political parties competed over the number of refugees the country should accept after a photograph of the drowned Syrian boy Aylan Kurdi on a Turkish beach captured attention. Car prices are set to go up, ranging from Rs 2,000 on mass market vehicles to over Rs 1 lakh on big diesel SUVs and sedans as Finance Minister Arun Jaitley decided to levy 'infrastructure cess' of up to 4 per cent, a move that made industry players fume. Singling out diesel vehicles, in the aftermath of pollution problems in the Capital, Jaitley decided to impose 2.5 per cent cess on diesel vehicles of length not exceeding 4 meter and engine capacity not exceeding 1,500cc, while higher engine capacity and SUVs and bigger sedans were slapped a cess of 4 per cent on the value of the car. These are over an above a cess of 1 per cent on petrol/ LPG/CNG driven vehicles of length not exceeding 4 meter and engine capacity not exceeding 1,200cc. Reacting to the proposals, Maruti Suzuki Chairperson RC Bhargava told PTI: "Obviously it will lead to rise in car prices. It came as a surprise for us as we were not expecting such kind of a cess." Lamenting Jaitley's announcements, Bhargava said: "For pollution, we have already been asked to get to Euro 6 emission norms by 2020. It involves substantial amount of investment and would also add to the cost of vehicles. In addition, this additional cess, when cars contribute only around 2 per cent of the air pollution, comes as a surprise for us." He, however, declined to comment on the quantum of the price hike. According to industry estimates, as a result of the cess the increase in prices could range from Rs 2,500 on entry level small cars such as Maruti Alto or Tata Nano and can go over a lakh of rupees on high-end vehicles which are priced above Rs 30 lakh. In his Budget speech, the Finance Minister said: "The pollution and traffic situation in Indian cities is a matter of concern. I propose to levy an infrastructure cess of 1 per cent on small petrol, LPG and CNG cars, 2.5 per cent on diesel cars of certain capacity and 4 per cent on other high engine capacity vehicles and SUVs." He also also proposed "to collect tax at source at the rate of 1 per cent on purchase of luxury cars exceeding value of Rs 10 lakh". Hyundai Motor India Ltd (HMIL) Senior Vice-President (Marketing and Sales) Rakesh Srivastava said the infrastructure cess has come as a "dampener" for the auto industry. "The auto industry has been experiencing growth challenges and there was an expectation of a scrappage scheme to remove high emission and low mileage vehicles. The taxation (infra cess) has come as a dampener and will effect demand, creating challenges towards sustainable growth," he said. When asked by how much the company's vehicle prices will go up, he said it would range from Rs 3,000 on entry level small car Eon to Rs Rs 80,000 on SUV SantaFe, which are currently priced ranging from Rs 3.20 lakh to Rs 30.79 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi). In its budget, the Centre has turned down the Rs 4,000 crore demand of Delhi government to augment public transport system in the national capital. Deputy Chief Minister Manish Sisodia said the NDA government has not allocated fund to purchase new buses in the capital. At the pre-budget consultation with Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, Sisodia had demanded a package of Rs 4,000 crore from the central government to purchase 5,000 additional buses, seeking to encourage citizens to patronise public transport. The AAP governemnt, as part of its odd-even scheme has been encouraging people to take up public transport, which it wishes to augment by putting in more buses on the streets. Slamming the Centre, the deputy chief minister said the NDA government should have decreased excise duty on sale of purchase of buses, but it did not. "It is requested that the central excise duty which is about 12.625 per cent on fully built buses and autos may be exempted to reduce the cost of public transport," Sisodia had said. China's premier has told visiting US Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew his government is pressing ahead with painful reforms to shrink its bloated and steel and coal industries. He also ruled out devaluing its currency. Premier Li Keqiang's comments to Lew today were in line with a joint declaration by financial officials from the 20 biggest rich and developing economies who met over the weekend in Shanghai. They pledged to avoid devaluations to boost sagging trade and urged governments to speed up reforms to boost slowing global growth. A deputy Chinese finance minister, Zhu Guangyao, said Li briefed Lew on the status of reforms aimed at reducing excess production capacity that is a drag on the economy. Zhu said Li also told Lew that China's yuan will "stay basically stable. Beijing is on alert for any angry responses from North Korea to proposed new United Nations sanctions over the North's recent nuclear test and rocket launch, a Chinese diplomat said today. The diplomat, who accompanied Foreign Minister Wang Yi during talks in Washington last week, said the two countries had agreed on the need for harsh sanctions against North Korea for defying UN resolutions. However, the diplomat, speaking on condition of anonymity because of the sensitivity of the issue, said the US should also provide incentives to North Korea to return to negotiations, such as offering progress on a permanent peace agreement between the sides. The two countries are still technically at war because the 1950-53 Korean War ended with a cease-fire, not a peace treaty. "We are fully aware that in the next couple of months the situation in this area could be very sensitive. On the one hand, you have to be prepared, keep alert on what kind of reaction might be from Pyongyang," the diplomat said. The US and South Korea also bear responsibility to avoid actions that North Korea might view as provocative, such as scheduled military drills, he said. "We hope that after the adoption of the resolution all sides should refrain from taking any measures that could escalate." China is North Korea's most important ally, biggest trading partner and key source of food and fuel. However, Beijing says its influence with Kim Jong Un's government is limited and has argued against measures from the international community that could spark its collapse, potentially leading to a wave of refugees crossing the border into China and the stationing of US and South Korean troops in the North. Despite its reservations, Beijing signed on to a draft resolution that for the first time would subject cargo ships leaving and entering North Korea to mandatory inspections, prohibit the sale of small arms and other conventional weapons to the North, and impose financial sanctions targeting North Korean banks and assets and ban all dual-use nuclear and missile-related items. The proposed sanctions would also limit and in some cases ban exports of coal, iron, gold, titanium and rare earth minerals from North Korea and would prohibit countries from supplying aviation fuel, including rocket fuel, to the country. Items such as luxury watches, snowmobiles, recreational water vehicles and lead crystal were also added to a long list of luxury goods that North Korea is not allowed to import. North Korea started off the new year with what it says was its first hydrogen bomb test on January 6. It followed with the launch of a satellite on a rocket on February 7 that was condemned by China and much of the world as a test of banned missile technology. China's central bank today fixed its central rate for the currency at a four-week low, data showed, despite comments by chief Zhou Xiaochuan that there was no basis for further depreciation. The People's Bank of China (PBoC) set the at 6.5452 to USD 1.0, down 0.17 percent from Friday, according to the China Foreign Exchange Trade System. The fix was the weakest since February 3, previous figures showed. The weaker currency hurt sentiment on the stock market, with the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index dropping as much as 4.44 per cent today morning. PBoC governor Zhou Xiaochuan on Friday told a seminar on the sidelines of the G20 finance ministers' meeting in Shanghai that the -- also known as the renminbi (RMB) --- would be stable. "There is no basis for persistent renminbi depreciation from the perspective of fundamentals," he said. Authorities only allow the yuan to rise or fall two percent on either side of the daily fix, to prevent volatility and maintain control over the currency. But a shock currency devaluation in August, which saw the normally stable unit guided down nearly five percent in a week followed by another drop in January, raised suspicions Beijing is pursuing a currency war to make its exports cheaper. Central bank chief Zhou denied those accusations on Friday. Zhou and other Chinese officials have repeatedly pledged to move towards a more flexible exchange rate. US Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew, who is visiting China, today urged the country's premier Li Keqiang to implement economic reforms. "It is also critical that China continue to move toward a more market-determined exchange rate in an orderly manner," he said in Beijing. The yuan was quoted at 6.5480 to a dollar around midday today, weakening slightly from Friday's close of 6.5372. The central bank said it pumped 230 billion yuan ($35 billion) into the financial system on Monday, bringing total fund injections over the past week to over 1.0 trillion yuan, according to state media. Chinese police are investigating a detained Hong Kong bookseller for allegedly selling books by mail illegally in mainland China, an official Chinese newspaper said today, the latest twist in a case that has raised concerns over erosion of civil rights in Hong Kong. The Communist Party newspaper Global Times said that Gui Minhai had admitted to selling more than 4,000 books by mail despite knowing they had not been approved by China's publications authority. Gui, who holds Swedish citizenship, was one of four people connected with Hong Kong's Mighty Current publishing house who went missing in October. He resurfaced in January, making a tearful appearance on Chinese state TV to say he surrendered for fleeing the country in violation of the terms of his suspended sentence over a 12-year-old fatal drunken driving case. Chinese authorities say three others connected with Mighty Current and its retail outlet, Causeway Bay Bookshop, have been detained for an investigation into unspecified criminal activity. The three others, Lui Por, Cheung Chi Ping and Lam Wing Kee, are shareholders or employees of the company. Gui disappeared from his vacation home in Pattaya, Thailand, while the three others went missing in mainland China. Hong Kong police also said they received a handwritten letter from a fifth missing person, editor Lee Bo, in which he purportedly rejected a request to meet with them. Lee, a British citizen, disappeared on December 30, and many suspect he was abducted by mainland Chinese security agents operating in Hong Kong, which would be a breach of the "one country, two systems" principle Beijing agreed to when it took control of the city from Britain in 1997. The European Parliament has called for the five to be immediately released, joining British, American and Swedish officials who have raised concern about the case. Mighty Current's books on political scandals and intrigue involving China's communist leaders are popular with mainland Chinese visitors to Hong Kong, despite their being banned on the mainland. China will lay off a total of 1.8 million redundant workers in the country's key coal and steel sectors as part of efforts to reduce industrial overcapacity, in the world's second largest economy, a senior minister said today. The Chinese Central government would provide 100 billion yuan (over USD 15 billion) for redundant workers as a result, adding that he was "confident" of a smooth transition, Minister of Human Resource and Social Security Yin Weimin said. He was confident of keeping overall employment stable this year despite downward pressure on the economy. No time frame was given for when the 1.8 million workers would be let go, South China Morning Post reported today. Earlier this month, a Chinese Cabinet plan said China will not approve any new coal production capacity over the next three years, and will remove about 500 million tonnes of production capacity within three to five years, squeezing "zombie" coal firms from the market. In 2015, China recorded a consecutive drop in coal use for a second year, with coal consumption down by 3.7 per cent, official data shows. China created 13.12 million urban jobs last year, exceeding the government target of 10 million, while the urban employment rate stood at 4.05 per cent, Yin said. Since 2013, China has created more than 13 million jobs annually, although the 2015 figure was 0.8 per cent less than that of the previous year. Also, coal consumption fell for the second year in a row, government data showed, as the world's biggest polluter attempts to tackle chronic pollution that accompanied economic growth. Coal use fell 3.7 per cent last year compared to 2014 levels, according to a report from China's National Bureau of Statistics (NBS). The drop follows a 2.9 per cent decrease in 2014. China's consumption of the fuel doubled in the decade to 2014, reaching more than four billion tonnes a year. A man armed with a large knife slashed at least 10 children, two of them seriously, outside a primary school today and later killed himself, marking the return of social revenge attacks on soft targets in China. Six boys and four girls suffered head injuries in the attack at Yangfan Primary School in Haikou, Hainan province state-run CCTV reported. The children were taken to hospital, with two of them being treated for serious injuries that were not life- threatening. Hong Kong-based South China Morning quoted witnesses as saying that the pupils were lined up to be released for lunch when the man approached them from outside the school gate. A clinic owner said the pupils were aged about eight and all of them suffered head injuries. Bloods stains and abandoned belongings such as shoes were seen scattered on the ground outside the school. Police has sealed off the area around the school. It is not known yet what prompted the man, identified as Li, to attack the children. His motionless body was later seen lying in a lane near the school. It was believed that he killed himself after injuring the students. Police were investigating what they described as a "vicious criminal case brought on by extreme actions", the report said. China periodically witnesses social revenge attacks carried by disgruntled people who chose soft targets to vent their anger. Numerous attacks have been carried out in the last few years by such people on primary school children. Some also set fire to moving buses causing heavy casualties. Most of the people who carried out the attacks were described by the police as mentally disturbed. Vatican finance chief Cardinal George Pell today admitted the Catholic Church "mucked up" in dealing with paedophile priests and vowed he would not "defend the indefensible" before an Australian inquiry. Pell gave evidence from a hotel in Rome via video-link to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse in Sydney rather than appear in person as he has a heart condition. The inquiry is currently focused on the Victorian state town of Ballarat, where Pell grew up and worked, and how the church dealt with complaints, many dating back to the 1970s, against the Catholic clergy. Pell, who rose to be the top Catholic official in Australia, said the church historically made grave errors in not properly addressing the issue and was now working to remedy them. "Let me just say this, as an initial clarification, and that is I'm not here to defend the indefensible," he said after swearing on the Bible to tell the truth. "The church has made enormous mistakes and is working to remedy those. The church in many places, certainly in Australia, has mucked things up, has let people down." He acknowledged that in the past the church's general attitude to abuse was that it was "much, much more difficult for the child to be believed" and complaints were often dismissed. "I don't have the statistics on that but too many of them certainly were dismissed and sometimes they were dismissed in absolutely scandalous circumstances," he said, adding that the instinct was to protect the church from shame. "They were very, very, very plausible allegations made by responsible people that were not followed up sufficiently." But he denied the church's structure was to blame for the way it handled paedophile priests, despite counsel assisting the commission Gail Furness saying many inquiries around the world had found those in senior positions did not take proper action. "I think the faults overwhelmingly have been more personal faults, personal failures rather than structures," he said. Pell has always denied knowing of systemic child abuse occurring in Ballarat, including by Gerald Ridsdale, seen as Australia's worst paedophile priest who preyed on dozens of children over two decades. The pair shared a home but Pell has dismissed claims he helped move him to another parish or that he tried to buy anyone's silence. He told the commission the way Ridsdale was dealt with by church officials was "catastrophic". "I have just re-read the file of Ridsdale. The priest -- ex-priest -- and the way he was dealt with was a catastrophe. A catastrophe for the victims and a catastrophe for the church," he said. "If effective action had been taken earlier, an enormous amount of suffering would've been avoided. US bank Citigroup announced today it would sell its 20 percent stake in China Guangfa Bank to China Life Insurance Company as it focuses on its own franchise in China. Citigroup sold the stake to China Life for USD 3 billion, said a person close to the matter, confirming a figure in The Wall Street Journal. A Citigroup statement did not disclose the terms of the transaction. The move marks a shift from Citigroup's strategy in 2006, when it successfully fended off a rival bid from France's Societe Generale and bought the China Guangfa stake for $620 million. Citigroup continues to view China as "one of our highest priority markets around the world," said Francisco Aristeguieta, chief executive of Citi Asia Pacific, in the statement. Citigroup locally incorporated in China in 2007 and now operates in 13 cities in the country. "This transaction is consistent with the simplification of Citi and allows us to focus our resources in China on growing our core franchise further," Aristeguieta said. "We employ more than 8,000 people in China and work closely with a targeted set of clients across both consumer and institutional banking." Citigroup has cut back significantly in some other international markets. On February 19, it announced plans to sell consumer businesses in Argentina, Brazil and Colombia, adding that it would focus on institutional and corporate clients in these markets. The transaction is expected to close in the second half of 2016, following regulatory approvals. Clashes broke out between French riot police and migrants today as authorities began destroying makeshift shelters in the grim shantytown on the edge of Calais known as the "Jungle". Police lobbed tear gas cannisters at migrants who protested as around 20 workers moved in to start pulling down the shacks by hand under blue skies as an icy wind blew. Two bulldozers stood by but were not used. Migrants and members of the British "No Borders" activist group, who launched projectiles at the police, also set fire to about 20 of the shelters, according to an AFP photographer and running clashes continued late into the afternoon. Three members of "No Borders" and one migrant were arrested, according to local government officials. The demolition of the southern half of the camp began after a court petition by charities to stop it was rejected last week. "It's infinitely sad to see the waste of so much work that we've done in the past months," said Maya Konforti of the Auberge des Migrants (Migrants' Hostel) charity. Volunteers and aid workers have spent months trying to improve conditions in the camp, built on a former toxic waste dump on the outskirts of Calais. Local authorities, who have promised that no one will be evacuated by force, say 3,700 people live in the camp, and that between 800 and 1,000 will be affected by the eviction. But charities say a recent census they conducted counted at least 3,450 people in the southern part alone, including 300 unaccompanied children. The evicted migrants have been offered heated accommodation in refitted containers set up next door to the camp, but many are reluctant to move there because they lack communal spaces and movement is restricted. They have also been offered places in some 100 reception centres dotted around France. However the migrants do not want to give up their hopes of Britain, which they try to reach daily by sneaking aboard lorries and ferries crossing the Channel. Power tariffs may rise up to 16 paise per unit while coal prices may go up by 20 per cent with the government today proposing doubling the clean energy cess to Rs 400 a tonne levied on coal, lignite and peat. While presenting the budget for 2016-17, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said that the 'Clean Energy Cess' levied on coal, lignite and peat has now been renamed as 'Clean Environment Cess'. "Its incidence has been increased to Rs 400 per metric tonne, from Rs 200 per metric tonne," he said. Commenting on the proposed cess, Manish Aggarwal, Partner and Head of Energy and Natural Resources, KPMG in India said, "While good from overall environment perspective, this goes against stated intent to reduce 'cost of power' to industry. The per unit impact of additional increase would be roughly 12 to 16 paise per unit, he added. Bharat Aluminium Co Ltd Non-Executive Chairman S K Roongta said that proposed hike in coal cess will increase the cost of power which will have to be passed on to consumers to that extent. The cost of power may go up by about "10 paise per unit", Roongta said, adding that it will impact industry and general consumers. According to PwC's Kameswara Rao, increase in carbon cess was expected as it was doubled in the last two years, but still well below the imputed cost of carbon. "This would increase cost of power by an average 10 paise per kWh. But it would also enhance the funding available with the government for supporting renewable energy manufacturing and renewable power plants," Rao said. Meanwhile, a Coal India official said that the cess is likely shoot up the PSU's average notified coal price by around 20 per cent. "Our average coal price (notified segment) is Rs 1,000-1,100 per tonne and an increase of Rs 200 per tonne is almost 20 per cent rise in coal price," the official said. Sources said that the impact of cess on power tariffs will be much more for south India power plants that procure mostly low-grade coal which is priced at Rs 700-800 per tonne from Mahanadi Coalfields. This will be because the Rs 200 per tonne additional levy will jack up coal price by as high as 25 per cent, sources said. Earlier, the government had increased the Clean Energy Cess from Rs 100 to 200 per tonne of coal to finance clean environment initiatives for 2015-16. A college student was stabbed to death and two others seriously injured in a clash between two student groups at Shamli town this evening, police said. Circle Officer Nishank Sharma said the deceased has been identified as Shivam (22). The injured, Shekhar and Shivam, were rushed to the hospital in a serious condition. The CO said security has been tightened in the area and a case has been registered against five students who are absconding. A bill to amend the Companies Act will be introduced in the current session of Parliament for greater ease of doing business, including for facilitating registration of a new company in just one day, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said today. Presenting the Union Budget for 2016-17, Jaitley said the proposed bill to amend the Companies Act 2013 will remove the difficulties and impediments to ease of doing business. "The Bill would also improve the enabling environment for start-ups. The registration of companies will also be done in one day," he added. Earlier this month, a government-appointed panel had suggested nearly 100 amendments to the new Companies Act to make it easier to do business in India, including for simpler laws for incorporating a company and for raising funds, as also for insider trading and dealings with top executives. The Ministry of Corporate Affairs Ministry had initiated a public consultation process on the suggested changes and had invited comments from all concerned stakeholders till February 15 in this regard. The Ministry had constituted the Companies Law Committee in June 2015 for examining and making recommendations on the issues arising out of implementation of the Companies Act, 2013. The Committee, chaired by Corporate Affairs Secretary, submitted its report on February 1. The panel also had nominees from RBI, Sebi, industry bodies, as also from Institute of Cost Accountants of India, Institute of Chartered Accountants of India and Institute of Company Secretaries of India. The committee held extensive consultations with stakeholders before making its recommendations and received more than 2000 suggestions during the process. The stakeholders consulted included all industry chambers, professional institutes, law firms, financial sector entities and other regulators. The panel had said that its endeavour has been to address difficulties and challenges expressed by various stakeholders and also to further the government's objective of improving ease of doing business, encouraging start-ups and the need for harmonising various laws. The suggestions also included measures to bring in a greater clarity in the Act and Rules and harmonising the various provisions thereof while making its recommendations. The panel had proposed changes in 78 sections of the Companies Act, 2013, which along with consequential changes, would result in about 100 amendments to the Act. Approximately 50 amendments to the Rules were also proposed. The recommendations cover significant areas of the Act, including definitions, raising of capital, accounts and audit, corporate governance, managerial remuneration, companies incorporated outside India and offences/penalties. A local right group today said rebels have killed at least 12 people in attacks on villages in eastern Congo. The Center of Study for the Promotion of Peace, Democracy and Human Rights, which tracks rebel violence, said the two attacks early today in villages in Beni territory have been carried out by the Allied Defence Forces, which has origins in neighboring Uganda. The centre's head, Omar Kavota, says that residents of Pene fled after rebels beheaded five inhabitants. He said the rebels attacked with machetes in Ntombi, killing at least seven people and injuring others. He said the rebels there looted the local health center, stole food and up to 40 goats. The rebel group is one of many operating in eastern Congo. "Controversies are a necessary stimulation and help a person in not being complacent" was the farewell message by St Stephen's principal Valson Thampu whose tenure was marred with controversies. The farewell activities lined up for Thampu also had their share of controversies with a section of teachers and staff members boycotting his celebrations of "festival of retirement". "Controversies are necessary stimulation for any person. Manufactures of those dramas did not know they were doing me a favour and helping me in not being complacent. Everything I did was by design and nothing was an accident," Thampu said in his farewell address. "When I took over the post of the principal I knew the cost I was going to pay and I was warned against it by my well wishers but I give credit to all those who created controversies around the college as they only motivated me and brought out the best in my administration," he added. Thampu, who studied at St Stephen's and later served the college as a lecturer and officiating principal, took over as the college principal in 2008. His tenure as the 12th principal of the prestigious college ended today and his successor John Varghese will take charge of the post tomorrow. Meanwhile, the group of teachers who made repetitive demands for his removal in wake of the controversies, boycotted the farewell terming his tenure to be the "darkest period" in college's history. "The college has been battered and bruised during his tenure but institutions are greater than individuals. The past seven years were darkest years in history of Stephen's," a senior professor of the college and former member of the Governing Body said. DUTA President Nandita Narain who has always been at loggerheads with Thampu said, "he has always been making derogatory remarks against teachers hence we all decided to give his farewell a miss". Another farewell meeting was held today in the college preceded by Farewell Chapel Service. The celebrations ended with an "Adieu Walk". The principal designate also addressed the students and adviced them to run away from "temptation of popularity" and keep working irrespective of any controversies. Allegations of forced conversion of an administrative officer to Christianity, fake degree used for his appointment, banning of e-zine for not seeking permission on content, shielding a professor accused of sexual harassment of a research scholar and proposing amendments to the college's 102-year-old constitution marked Thampu's stint at St Stephen's helm. A Special fast track court has imposed a cost of Rs 1,000 on the Director of Prosecution for not being vigilant and failing to provide a substitute prosecutor to it, causing a delay in disposal of cases. The court also made it clear that the cost amount would be recovered from the salary of Director of Prosecution of Delhi government and said it should be deposited within a week. "Non providing of substitute prosecutor on the part of Director of prosecution, Government of NCT of Delhi shows that he is not vigilant. Since this court is a Special Court pertaining to offence against women. "The prosecution witness states that he has come from Uttarakhand. Non providing of substitute prosecutor has caused harassment to the witness and also caused delay in disposal of the case," Additional Sessions Judge Ramesh Kumar-II, who was presiding over the special fast track court set to exclusively deal with cases of crime against women, said. The court passed the similar order in two cases, relating to rape and molestation and imposed a cost of Rs 500 each on the Director of Prosecution. It said that the copy of order be sent to the Secretary (Home) of Delhi government to recover the cost from the salary of the Director. It also said that due to absence of substitute prosecutor, the court could not hear arguments of State on the bail plea of an accused and it caused delay in disposal of application. One of the main function of the Director of Prosecution is to supervise the criminal cases, pending trials, appeal and revision in various courts. He is also required to supervise the conduct of prosecution in courts. CPI(M) today condemned registration of a sedition case against party general secretary Sitaram Yechury and other opposition leaders over the JNU row as it raised concerns over the manner in which the sedition clause is being used. "The politburo of CPI(M) condemns registeration of a case of sedition against Yechury and other opposition leaders. It demands withdrawal of the case against the leaders and all others named in the FIR," the party said in a statement. The Left party further raised concerns over the "manner in which" sedition clause (124A of IPC) is being used in the country and said the same underlines the necessity for scrapping the section. "The politburo warns the Central Government to desist from actions which suppress democratic rights and freedom in the country by branding dissent and opposition as anti-national," the CPI(M) added. An FIR has been registered against Yechury, Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi, party leaders Anand Sharma and Ajay Maken, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, CPI national secretary D Raja, JD(U) spokesperson KC Tyagi, JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar and the university research scholar Umar Khalid on the order of a Hyderabad court based on a complaint filed by lawyer Janardhan Goud. Goud had filed a complaint in the court of a metropolitan magistrate on Thursday seeking a direction to police for registration of a case against Kanhaiya and Khalid for allegedly raising anti-India and pro-Afzal Guru slogans on JNU campus. In his petition, Goud said he had every right to question those engaging in anti-national activities and also ones encouraging anti-nationals facing sedition charges. Jharkhand Chief Minister Raghubar Das today hailed the Union budget for its focus on agriculture. "The focus is on agriculture and reforming the economy," Das said in his reaction to the budget. The Chief Minister, who had on February 19 presented an agriculture budget within the state budget to address agrarian issues, said the Union budget would help states, including Jharkhand. Das said earmarking Rs 9,000 crore for the 'Swachh Bharat Mission' reflected Prime Minister Narendra Modi's dream of all-round development of the country. State Water Resources Minister Chandraprakash Choudhary termed the budget as balanced and as one which addressed all sections. Ruling BJP MLA Biranchi Narayan termed it progressive and focused on agriculture and MGNREGA. Former chief minister Arjun Munda said the budget has addressed all sections and praised the insurance scheme worth Rs 1 lakh for the poor. Former Chief Justice of India HL Dattu today took charge as the Chairperson of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC). He is the seventh Chairperson of the Commission. Justice KG Balakrishnan completed his tenure on May 11, last year following which member of the Commission Justice Cyriac Joseph held charge as the acting Chairperson. Justice Dattu has been associated with several significant judgments. He was on the bench that expanded the Indian jurisprudence on death sentence cases by commuting the death penalty of terror convict Devinder Pal Singh Bhullar to life term over mental illness and an inordinate delay in deciding his mercy plea by the government. Justice Dattu also headed the bench that acquitted 11 persons charged under terror laws telling the Gujarat police that no innocent person should be branded a terrorist and put behind bars simply because he belongs to a minority community. Empathising with the 'My name is Khan but I am not a terrorist' lament, the Supreme Court on Wednesday said law cannot be abused to harass any person owning to his religion. He pronounced a landmark ruling with the observation that "bail is the rule and jail an exception" while granting bail to five big corporate in the 2G case. He was on the Constitution Bench that declared as "unconstitutional" a law enacted by Kerala to restrict water level in the Mullaperiyar dam to 136 feet, while protecting the legal right of Tamil Nadu. Born on December 3, 1950 in Chikamagaluru district of Karnataka, Justice Dattu, after completing his early education in Kadur, Tarikere and Birur, moved to Bengaluru to pursue his higher studies. He completed his LLB from Bengaluru and enrolled at the Karnataka Bar Council on October 23, 1975 as an advocate and pleaded in civil, criminal, constitutional and taxation matters. He was appointed as a Judge of the Karnataka High Court on December 18, 1995 and elevated as the Chief Justice of the Chhattisgarh High Court on February 12, 2007. On May 18, 2007, he was transferred to head the Kerala High Court. He was elevated as the Judge of the Supreme Court December 17, 2008 and was appointed as the Chief Justice of India on September 28, 2014. He retired on December 2, 2015. Former Delhi Chief Minister Sheila Dixit today said the people of Delhi were "paying a heavy price" because of the "confrontationist" attitude of Arvind Kejriwal. "People of Delhi are regretting as why did they make him the CM as he always says something and does something else", the senior Congress leader remarked. Lashing out at Kejriwal's "confrontationist attitude", she said, people of Delhi were "regretting" what they had done one year ago. She alleged Kejriwal always play the blame game by either trying to blame the Lieutenant Governor or the Police Commissioner or the Central government. "Even I worked within such limitations and I never complained while making Delhi a world class city", she said. She alleged that development had come to a "standstill" and the Delhi Chief Minister was simply trying to wriggle out of the situation by trying to blame others when he should own the responsibility. "This government has not laid down a single new brick and has only been trying to take credit for what we did during the last 15 years", she said. She cautioned the people of Punjab not to get "deceived" by his promises which he never "fulfils". "There is a huge gap between what he says and what he does", she said, while remarking, "he preaches something and practises something else". She was accompanied by senior party leaders including former Punjab Chief Minister Rajinder Kaur Bhattal, CLP leader Charanjit Singh Channi and MLA Balbir Sidhu. The former Delhi Chief Minister pointed out, that the Safai Karamcharis in Delhi are on strike for last six months as the AAP government is "not able to pay" their salaries, but the same (AAP) government has allocated Rs 520 crore for its publicity. She said, compared to AAP government the Congress government on an average spent around Rs 25 crore per year on publicity. Dixit said there was unemployment everywhere and those working were not getting their wages like the safai karamcharis, but Kejriwal raised his and his MLAs' salary by 400 per cent which was unprecedented and unheard in history. Pope Francis said today that "devastating" Islamist and other violence in the Middle East and Africa had brought different churches closer, as he met the Ethiopian Orthodox leader. It was a theme he raised in talks with the Russian Orthodox patriarch in Cuba earlier this month where he spoke extensively about church unity and the attacks faced by Christians in the Middle East and North Africa. "The shared suffering means that Christians, who are otherwise divided on several issues, have become much closer to one another," he said on meeting Patriarch Abuna Matthias at the Vatican. "The blood of martyrs belonging to different churches will serve as the seed of Christian unity," he said. The pope had sent a message of support to the Ethiopian patriarch last April after 28 Ethiopians were massacred on a Libyan beach by the Islamic State group, saying it was "immaterial" which strand of Christianity they followed, saying "their blood is the same". Today, he said the Ethiopian church "had been a church of martyrs since its inception." "Even today, you are witness to a devastating violence against Christian minorities in the Middle East and many parts of Africa," he said, specifically referring to jihadist violence. The Ethiopian Orthodox church is one of the largest Orthodox churches and one of the oldest but it retains some Jewish traditions like circumcision. Dhunseri Petrochem Ltd and Indorama Ventures have joined hands to manufacture and sell PET resins for Indian domestic markets and for exports in which former will hive off its Haldia Plant to new a joint venture. In a complex corporate restructuring, Dhunseri Petrochem Ltd (Dhunseri) has decided to hive-off its Haldia manufacturing asset into new JV company, Dhunseri Pet Global. "Under the scheme of arrangement with Thailand's Indorama Ventures Public Company Limited (IVL) it will acquire 50 per cent in Dhunseri Pet Global at Rs 418 crore. Rest 50 per cent continued to be held by Dhunseri Petrochem," its Chairman C K Dhanuka told PTI. In simple terms, after the transaction Dhunderi Petrochem will hold 50 per cent new JV company Dhunsderi Pet Global and 50 per cent in IVL's Haryana plant. Dhanuka said "Dhunseri Petrochem to get Rs 285 crore while, Rs 130 crore will be retained by new company Dhunseri Pet Global under the scheme of arrangement. Dhunseri Petrochem's Egypt business is not included in the deal. Dhunseri's 4,80,000 tonnes plant at Haldia unit is country's largest PET manufacturing facility. Aloke Lohia, Group CEO and Founder of IVL said, "This joint venture will allow us to gain the highest benefits by covering a larger geographical area of the fast-growing India market with a complementary and experienced partner. Two directors of a newly-launched smart phone company were today arrested for allegedly cheating a public sector bank. Anto and Josekutty were arrested based on a complaint filed by the bank's Pathadippalam branch, police said. In its complaint, the bank alleged that the duo failed to make the loan payment of Rs 2.57 crore, police said. Hours ahead of the launch of their smart phone, Kalamassery police arrested them. They had given advertisements in today's newspapers announcing the launch of six models of their new smart phone. In the advertisements, theydescribed their products as "India's pride from God's own land". Drake and Rihanna are reportedly back together. The "Hotline Bling" hitmaker and 28-year-old songtress' romance looked to be back on track after they were spotted dancing and kissing at London's Libertine nightclub last week ahead of their steamy performance at the BRIT Awards, reported Femalefirst. And now the Canadian rapper, 29, is said to be "totally besotted" with the R&B superstar. "They're back together and Drake is totally besotted," a source said. His team have been teasing him about it but nothing can wipe the smile off his face." And of their behaviour at the club, the source added, "They were like a couple of teenagers - snogging and following each other around the club. It was like watching scenes from their new video when they danced together." The duo are believed to have been inseparable even since they arrived in London for the BRIT Awards, where they did a show-stopping performance of their song "Work" and showed millions of viewers their dance routine as Rihanna twerked on Drake. Rihanna has had several relationships over the years including a serious romance with rapper Chris Brown, which ended abruptly after he was found guilty of assaulting her in 2009. She has also been linked most recently to Leonardo DiCaprio, Travis Scott and racing driver champion Lewis Hamilton. Dutch officials have identified 30 war crimes suspects, including 10 Syrians, among tens of thousands of asylum-seekers who arrived in the country last year, the justice ministry said today. Immigration authorities found the 30 after investigating 170 people, Deputy Justice Minister Klaas Dijkhoff told parliament in a letter following questions from MPs. Ten of them were from Syria, while the others are from Eritrea, Nigeria, Sudan and Georgia, he said. Under the Geneva Convention, refugees can be refused asylum "when serious grounds exist to believe that they are guilty of war crimes, crimes against humanity, or other non-political serious crimes," Dijkhoff said. But 20 of them could not be sent back because of ongoing wars or fears of inhumane treatment. A similar Dutch investigation in 2014 identified 50 war crimes suspects, even though the number of refugees reaching the country was much lower. The Netherlands took in 58,800 migrants last year, almost double the number which arrived in 2014 as Europe grapples with its worse refugee crisis since World War II. The issue is polarising Dutch society and boosting the popularity of the far-right populist MP Geert Wilders and his Freedom Party. Several anti-immigrant demonstrations have turned violent, with refugee centres attacked and damaged. German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said the European Union cannot allow Greece, a country bailed out from its huge debt crisis, to plunge into "chaos" by shutting European borders to refugees. "Do you seriously believe that all the euro states that last year fought all the way to keep Greece in the eurozone -- and we were the strictest -- can one year later allow Greece to, in a way, plunge into chaos?" Merkel said in a TV interview yesterday. Read more from our special coverage on "REFUGEE CRISIS" Austria launches daily cap on refugees despite EU anger Merkel criticised the move by Austria and several Balkan countries to introduce border controls or cap daily migrant arrivals, creating a bottleneck in Greece as refugee boats continue to arrive from Turkey. "What has happened is exactly what we feared, that a country is now left alone with its problems, and we can't allow that," the German leader said in a lengthy interview on the migrant crisis with public broadcaster ARD. Merkel -- who had long sparred with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, demanding strict austerity in return for billions in EU-IMF bailouts -- said she was now in close contact with the leftist leader on the refugee influx. Anger has been building in Greece, the European gateway for hundreds of thousands of migrants, after Vienna introduced a daily cap on asylum applications and four Balkan countries, Macedonia, Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia, tightened entry conditions. Germany last year took in over one million asylum seekers, more than half from war-torn Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, leaving Merkel exposed to rising criticism at home as well as from many EU partners. Merkel insisted that the refugee influx be reduced through tightening EU external borders, involving NATO ships in a surveillance mission to stop refugee boats from Turkey, and an EU deal with Ankara. "But many don't believe in this way and are saying 'well, who knows whether that will work?' said the chancellor. Merkel said of eastern European countries that have tightened their border controls, "The problem is that they acted independently and unilaterally, but it's not good if a country is not involved." She added, "Greece was simply left on the outside. The border was secured from the Macedonian side, without anyone speaking with Greece about whether Greece wanted to secure its borders too." Merkel said Germany's responsibility was "not to solve the problem at the expense of another country but together with other countries. That's what we did in the euro crisis and that's what we have to do in the . The members of the Faculty Association of AIIMS (FAAIIMS) today observed a 'black badge day' protesting against the termination of services of Assistant Professor in Medicine Department Kuldeep Kumar, who they claimed was removed without proper inquiry. "As part of the protest, the faculty members wore black badges whole day and gathered outside the Director's office in the afternoon," a FAAIIMS member said. The FAAIIMS in its general body meeting also decided to contribute money to help Kumar in his legal fight against the administration. AIIMS administration has said Kumar had several complaints against him, including for using objectionable language during ward assessment and bad behaviour with patients. The FAAIIMS has condemned the institute's decision to sack the senior doctor and announced its support to him. Demanding that his termination be withdrawn immediately, they have also written to the Union Health Minister. AIIMS had terminated Kumar's services on January 10 for allegedly misbehaving with and manhandling a patient in September last year. A committee, set up after the incident under the department head S K Sharma, last week took the decision to terminate Kumar's contract with AIIMS. Earlier, a doctor associated with FAAIIMS said, "Only seven faculties have been terminated till now in the history of AIIMS, but that was also because they went abroad and did not respond to the communication by the institution about their return. In order to attract more foreign investment, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today proposed significant liberalisation of FDI norms in a host of sectors including insurance, pension, ARCs and stock exchanges. In the insurance and pension sectors, foreign investment will be allowed through automatic route for up to 49 per cent subject to the guidelines on Indian management and control, to be verified by the regulators. Earlier, foreign investment up to 26 per cent was allowed through automatic route. Similarly, 100 per cent FDI in Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs) will be permitted through automatic route. Earlier it was allowed only up to 49 per cent. Jaitley also said that foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) will be allowed up to 100 per cent of each tranche in securities receipts issued by ARCs subject to sectoral caps. Besides, investment limit for foreign entities in Indian stock exchanges will be enhanced from 5 per cent to 15 per cent on par with domestic institutions. "This will enhance global competitiveness of Indian stock exchanges and accelerate adoption of best-in-class technology and global market practices," he said. Further, the existing 24 per cent limit for investment by FPIs in central public sector enterprises, other than banks, listed in stock exchanges, will be increased to 49 per cent to obviate the need for prior approval of government for increasing the foreign portfolio investment. Jaitley said FDI will also be allowed beyond the 18 specified NBFC activities in the automatic route in other activities which are regulated by financial sector regulators. With a view to promote 'Make in India' and following the practices in advanced countries, foreign investors will be accorded "residency status" subject to certain conditions. Currently, these investors are granted business visa only up to five years at a time. In order to ensure effective implementation of Bilateral Investment Treaties (BITs) signed by India with other countries, the minister proposed to introduce a "Centre State Investment Agreement". "This will ensure fulfilment of the obligations of the state governments under these treaties. States which opt to sign these agreements will be seen as more attractive destinations by foreign investors," he added. The basket of eligible FDI instruments will be expanded to include hybrid instruments subject to certain conditions, Jaitley said. All these decisions, he said, "will facilitate ease of doing business for foreign investors and their domestic recipients". The government has already relaxed the FDI policy in over a dozen sectors, including defence, railway, medical devices and civil aviation. FDI into the country increased by 40 per cent to USD 29.44 billion during the April-December period of the current fiscal. Pakistan today executed former police commando Mumtaz Qadri, convicted for assassinating former Punjab governor Salman Taseer who sought reforms in the country's controversial blasphemy laws, at a prison in Rawalpindi. Qadri, who killed the liberal Punjab governor in 2011 in an upmarket locality of Islamabad for criticising the blasphemy laws, was hanged in Adialia jail early this morning, Express Tribune reported. Fearing a possible backlash after the execution, police have beefed up security in Rawalpindi to maintain law and order and to deal with any untoward situation. Rangers and police in riot gear were deployed outside Qadri's home in Rawalpindi. Qadri shot Taseer 28 times in broad daylight in an upscale market in the capital Islamabad in January 2011. He later admitted the killing, saying he objected to the the governor's calls to reform the blasphemy laws. Taseer, who died aged 66, had come out it in support of a Christian woman charged with blasphemy and termed the regulations as "black laws" drawing the ire of extremists. An Anti-Terrorism Court had convicted and condemned Qadri to death in the same year, a ruling also upheld by the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court. A review petition of Qadri was also turned down by the top court on December 14 last year, leaving him with the last option of to file a clemency appeal to President Mamnoon Hussain. His mercy appeal was also rejected by the President. Religious parties had threatened nationwide protests if Qadri is hanged. Radical religious groups had been demanding that Qadri should be forgiven as he killed a "blasphemer". Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in Pakistan, with even unproven allegations often triggering mob violence. The controversial law was introduced by former military dictator Zia-ul Haq in 1980s and so far hundreds of people have been charged under them. Pakistan today executed former police commando Mumtaz Qadri, who brutally assassinated former liberal Punjab governor Salman Taseer for seeking reforms in the country's controversial blasphemy laws, triggering nation-wide protests by Islamists who called it a "black day". Qadri, who shot Taseer 28 times in 2011 in broad daylight in an upmarket locality of Islamabad for criticising the blasphemy laws, was hanged in Adialia jail of Rawalpindi city at around 4:30 am, officials said. Within hours of the hanging, street protests broke out in several cities by the supporters of Qadri, who considered him as a hero for defending the faith, and had threatened violence if he was executed. Rangers and riot police were deployed outside Qadri's home in Rawalpindi where hundreds of supporters had gathered and also in nearby Islamabad. Activists of Sunni groups, who had given a hero-like status to Qadri, blocked main intersections in Rawalpindi, cutting off the main link with capital Islamabad. Police and paramilitary security personnel were patrolling the roads. A senior police official said that high-alert had been issued in Rawalpindi and rest of Punjab province to tackle any untoward situation. "Security forces were on high alert and extra police were being deployed to clear the roads," a police officials said. After assassinating Taseer in January 2011, Qadri admitted the killing and said he objected to the governor's calls to reform the blasphemy laws. Taseer, who died aged 66, had come out it in support of a Christian woman charged with blasphemy and termed the regulations as "black laws" drawing the ire of extremists. An Anti-Terrorism Court had convicted and condemned Qadri to death in the same year, a ruling also upheld by the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court. A review petition of Qadri was also turned down by the top court on December 14 last year, leaving him with the last option of to file a clemency appeal to President Mamnoon Hussain. His mercy appeal was also rejected by the President. Radical religious groups had been demanding that Qadri should be forgiven as he killed a "blasphemer". Sunni Tehreek chief Sarwat Ijaz Qadri condemned the hanging. "It is black day in the history of the country. Those who executed Qadri have only spoiled their chances of success hereafter," he said. The funeral prayer of Qadri will be held tomorrow in Rawalpindi. Blasphemy is a sensitive issue in Pakistan, with even unproven allegations often triggering mob violence. The controversial law was introduced by former military dictator Zia-ul Haq in 1980s and so far hundreds of people have been charged under them. Three former executives of the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant operator were indicted today over the 2011 atomic accident, in what will be the first criminal trial linked to the disaster. Ex-Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO) chairman Tsunehisa Katsumata, then-vice president Sakae Muto and former vice president Ichiro Takekuro were formally charged with professional negligence resulting in deaths and injury. The trio were not taken into custody. "We were notified from our lawyers that the three were indicted," a spokeswoman for a campaign group pushing for a trial told AFP. A judicial review panel composed of ordinary citizens ruled in July -- for the second time since the accident -- that the trio should be put on trial. The decision compelled prosecutors to press on with the criminal case under Japanese law. Prosecutors had twice refused to press charges against the men, citing insufficient evidence and little chance of conviction. It will be the first criminal trial over responsibility for the tsunami-sparked reactor meltdowns that forced tens of thousands from their homes in the world's worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986. Public broadcaster NHK said the three would plead not guilty, arguing it was impossible to predict the size of the massive tsunami that slammed into Japan's northeast coast. Although the March 11 earthquake and tsunami killed 18,500 people, the nuclear disaster it caused is not officially recorded as having directly killed anyone. Japanese media said the charges are linked to the deaths of more than 40 hospitalised patients who were hastily evacuated from the area and later died. Around a dozen others -- including TEPCO employees and members of Japan's Self Defense Forces -- were injured during the accident. Environmental group Greenpeace said the decision to press on with a criminal case was "a major step forward". "The court proceedings that will now follow should reveal the true extent of TEPCO's and the Japanese regulatory system's enormous failure to protect the people of Japan," said Hisayo Takada, deputy programme director at the organisation's Japan office. A report by the International Atomic Energy Agency last year said a misguided faith in the complete safety of atomic power was a key factor in the Fukushima accident. It pointed to weaknesses in disaster preparedness and in plant design, along with unclear responsibilities among regulators. A 2012 parliamentary report also said Fukushima was a man-made disaster caused by Japan's culture of "reflexive obedience", but no one has been punished criminally. Canadian federal police has charged an American, a Briton and two Canadians with stealing sensitive satellite imaging technology and selling it to China in violation of export laws. Two of them stole the sensor from their employer Teledyne Dalsa of Waterloo, Ontario with help from a former employee, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. They then sold it to two Chinese firms, one of them state-owned, in violation of the Canadian Controlled Goods Program and other laws. The fourth accused works for one of the Chinese companies allegedly involved in the scheme. The microelectronics were "intended for space satellite use," the RCMP said in a statement yesterday. "This investigation is an example of foreign governments having an interest in Canadian-based controlled technology and it highlights the RCMP's commitment to keeping Canadian's safe from the potential misuse of that technology," RCMP Superintendent Jamie Jagoe said. The two-year probe also involved the Canadian Space Agency, the military, the US Department of Homeland Security and the FBI. Canadians Arthur Xin Pang, 46, and Binqiao Li, 59, were arrested and charged with more than a dozen related crimes. Meanwhile, arrest warrants have been issued for Nick Tasker, 62, of Britain, and Hugh Ciao, 50, of California, who is currently in China. A special court has awarded four- year jail term to an assistant commissioner in Delhi government's Food and Supplies Department for demanding and accepting a bribe of Rs 40,000 from a Fair Price Shop (FPS) dealer. The court held Vinod Attal, a resident of Dwarka, guilty of demanding bribe from complainant Shiv Shankar as a reward for saving his FPS by not creating trouble in the future. "It stands proved that accused, who was a public servant, made a demand of bribe from the complainant as a reward for having saved his FPS and as a motive for not creating any trouble for him in future. He accepted a bribe of Rs 40,000 from the complainant but was trapped by CBI," Special CBI Judge Vinod Kumar said. The court also found that a direction to keep a strict watch on the functioning of the FPSs was used as a threat to the complainant and compelled him to pay a bribe to ensure future safety. "Demand of bribe is not only a reward for a saving act but also motive for refraining from causing future harm," it said. The court awarded four years rigorous imprisonment to Attal and also imposed a fine of Rs 1,000 on him under the provisions of the Prevention of Corruption Act. The court, however, acquitted Ajay Kumar, who was working as a clerk in the office, by giving him benefit of doubt. According to the CBI, a complaint was made by Shankar in January 2013, alleging that Attal had initially demanded Rs 50,000 bribe for having saved the FPS from getting its licence cancelled and settling the trouble by issuing penalty only. It said the audit officers had found some irregularities and fined the shop. The bribe amount to Attal was supposed to be paid through clerk Ajay Kumar in his office, it added. The complainant did not wish to pay the bribe and filed a complaint with the CBI. A trapped was laid by the CBI and the officer was caught red handed while accepting the bribe. During the trial, the officer denied the allegations and said he imposed a fine of Rs 10,000 for the irregularities at the FPS and claimed that it could not be altered without the approval of his Additional Commissioner. He also pleaded for a lenient view in sentencing on the ground that his family comprising two kids and parents were dependent on him. French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault today called for a new meeting of a UN-backed task force overseeing a fragile Syria ceasefire "without delay" to evaluate a range of breaches. "We have received indications that attacks, including air strikes are continuing in areas controlled by the moderate opposition," Ayrault told reporters in Geneva. "This must all of course be verified. France has therefore asked that the task force overseeing the implementation of the cessation of hostilities meets without delay," he said on the sidelines of the UN Human Rights Council. His comments came as a fragile ceasefire, negotiated by Washington and Moscow and backed by the UN, entered its third day largely intact despite reports of violations on both sides. A special international task force co-chaired by the United States and Russia met Saturday, making a positive assessment after the first hours of the cessation of hostilities. Ayrault insisted France "fervently wants an end to hostilities," adding that it "would be vigilant about its concrete application". "Let us not be mistaken: the Syrian drama is the measure with which all our efforts in the realm of human rights will be judged," he said. "For now, we must observe that we have failed." The ceasefire, which does not apply to territory held by the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda affiliate Al-Nusra Front, is considered the biggest diplomatic push yet to help end Syria's conflict, which has claimed more than 270,000 lives since March 2011. Ayrault also reiterated France's line that all perpetrators of violations in Syria must be held accountable, calling on the UN Security Council to refer them to the International Criminal Court in the Hague. France, he said, "will not be on the side of those who want to place human and humanitarian rights in parenthesis, (sweep them) under the carpet". French Prime Minister Manuel Valls today retreated on controversial labour reform plans, announcing a new round of consultations before submitting them to cabinet. Unveiled in mid-February, the reforms provoked criticism from within the ruling Socialist Party's own ranks and from labour unions. "Probably over the next week I will meet with all social partners, labour unions and employers' organisations, one by one," Valls told reporters. After the separate consultations Valls said he hoped to bring the parties together with the labour and economy ministers, Myriam El Khomri and Emmanuel Macron, to renew debate on the reform plans, which would make it easier for companies to lay off workers. The submission of the proposals to the cabinet has been postponed from March 9 to March 24, a government source told AFP. The reforms are part of government efforts to combat record unemployment levels in a country where employers are loath to take on permanent workers, as letting them go can be near impossible. However critics have complained the measures would dismantle one of the key job guarantees for French workers. Currently French companies have to justify in court plans to shed workers due to an economic downturn, a process they have complained makes it difficult and expensive to trim staff when the economy slows and ultimately makes them reluctant to hire. The reform spells out simple conditions such as falling orders or sales, or operating losses as sufficient cause for shedding employees. El Khomri said the reforms, which could drive a wedge within in the Socialists, aimed to boost competitiveness and protect jobs. With many left-wing Socialists unhappy with the adoption of pro-business policies, El Khomri threatened that the government could use a controversial mechanism allowed under the French constitution to adopt the law without parliamentary approval. Labour unions lambasted the reform plan. "We can't accept it as it stands," said Jean-Claude Mailly, head of the Force Ouvrieres union. The draft reform also provides more room for companies to reach agreements with their staff on employment conditions, and provide more exceptions to the conditions set out in the labour code, including on overtime pay and maximum working hours. The reform also limits the damages employees can win in court for wrongful firing. "We have to clear up a certain number of misunderstandings," Valls said. "We have to explain, respond to a whole series of false reports about this text." Just last Tuesday Valls told French radio he did not doubt "for a single moment" that the cabinet would approve the measures on March 9. The 88th Academy Award winners including Leonardo DiCaprio, Alejandro Inarritu and Sam Smith, as well as host Chris Rock used the Oscar stage to address issues like racial diversity, climate change and LGBT rights. Rock nailed the opening monologue with a skillful mix of social commentary and humour about racism in Hollywood, an issue that has dominated debates this awards season. "Well, I am here at the Academy Awards, otherwise known as the White People Choice Awards. If they nominated hosts, I wouldn't even get this job," Rock quipped. He also suggested that what was needed at this point is for the Academy to have black categories. "Is Hollywood racist? You know, you have to go at that the right way. It is a different type of racist. You are damn right Hollywood's racist. Hollywood is sorority racist. But things are changing." Rock addressed police violence against black community, saying "This year at the Oscars, things are gonna be a real different. In this year, in the In Memoriam package, it's just gonnna be black people who were shot by cops on the way to the movies." Celebrities utilised the Oscar stage to voice their opinions on issues that are close to their hearts. Breaking his Oscar jinx, when DiCaprio took to stage to accept his best actor trophy, the world expected him to look back at his cinematic journey but the 41-year-old star focused on climate change. "Making 'The Revenant' was about man's relationship in the natural world... Climate change is real. It is happening right now. It is the most urgent threat facing our entire species and we need to work together and stop procrastinating. Do not take the planet for granted," he told the celebrity crowd. Smith won the best original song Oscar for "Writing's on the Wall" from the James Bond movie "Spectre" and he dedicated his first Academy Award to the LGBT community. "I want to dedicate this to the LGBT community all around the world. I stand here tonight as a proud gay man. I hope we can stand all together as equals one day," he said. Mexican helmer Inarritu, who won his second consecutive directing Oscar for "The Revenant", after last year's win for "Birdman", addressed the diversity issue by invoking a dialogue from his movie. "I am very lucky to be here tonight but unfortunately, many others haven't had the same luck... "So what a great opportunity to our generation to really liberate ourselves from all prejudice and this tribal thinking, and make sure for once and forever that the colour of the skin become as irrelevant as the length of our hair. Pakistani journalist-filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy won best documentary short for "A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness", which is about a survivor of an attempted honour killing in her country. Sharmeen lauded the "brave men" and others who encourage women to study and progress in life. This is the second win for Sharmeen, who previously bagged the Oscar in the same category in 2011 for "S aving Face", a documentary about an acid attack victim. "Thank God I have two of them now. This is what happens when determined women get together from Saba, the woman in my film, who remarkably survives an honour killing and shared her story," Sharmeen said. Tom McCarthy's real life-inspired drama "Spotlight", based on a group of reporters, who exposed the child sex abuse cases in Catholic church, won the best picture honour and the film's team took the opportunity to talk about the importance of investigative journalism. "This film gave a voice to the survivors and the Oscar amplifies that voice which we hope will resonate all the way to the Vatican..," producer Michael Sugar said in his acceptance speech. "We would not be here today without the heroic efforts of our reporters. Not only do they effect global change, but they absolutely show us the necessity for investigative journalism," co-producer Blye Pagon Faust said. Best supporting actor winner Mark Rylance also spoke about the diversity issue that has marred the Academy since nominations last month. On a hopeful note, Rylance said, "I think African-American actors are in a stronger position now thanks a lot to what Chris Rock has done tonight and what the activists who have been raising the issue around this awards ceremony have said," the British star said, adding that it is an issue for him that filmmaking is largely dominated by men. A German court today suspended the trial of former SS medic Hubert Zafke for aiding in 3,681 murders in Auschwitz after the 95-year-old failed to attend over health problems. Chief judge Klaus Kabisch put the proceedings on hold shortly after they opened, saying a doctor who examined the defendant yesterday found that he had "suicidal thoughts and was suffering from stress reaction and hypertension". He was therefore "not in a state" to be transported to the court or to be heard, the judge said. Zafke was working at the Nazi death camp from August 15 to September 14, 1944, a period when teenage diarist Anne Frank was interned there. Prosecutors charge that by serving at Auschwitz, the former medical orderly "knew of and willingly supported the industrially organised mass killing people in an insidious and cruel manner". Zafke's ability to stand trial had long been a key contention. A first court had ruled against a trial, finding that he was suffering from dementia, before an appeals court overturned the decision. It found that, despite his "cognitive impairments" and diminished physical capacity, the defendant could be granted regular breaks and close medical supervision. Before today's hearing, the prosecution had also sought, but failed, to have the panel of judges recused on the grounds that they were biased towards declaring Zafke unfit to stand trial. Following Kabisch's decision, prosecutors filed a motion for a second medical opinion on the condition of Zafke. The court has only set an initial two further hearing dates, March 14 and 30. He risks between three and 15 years in prison, but even if convicted, Zafke is unlikely to serve any time behind bars given his advanced age. Zafke, a farmer's son who joined the Nazi party's elite police force the Waffen-SS at age 19, initially fought on the eastern front before he was sent to the death camp in occupied Poland. During the month-long period when he was on duty at Auschwitz, 14 trains arrived, delivering prisoners from across Europe to its slave labour camps and gas chambers. Finance Ministry Arun Jaitley today said the government is committed to implementing the General Anti Avoidance Rules (GAAR) from April 1, 2017. "I would like to reiterate our commitment to implement General Anti Avoidance Rules (GAAR) from April, 2017," Jaitley said while presenting the Budget for 2016-17 in the Lok Sabha. Last year, the Finance Minister had deferred applicability of General Anti-Avoidance Act (GAAR) by two years. The Government had earlier proposed imposing the GAAR from April 1, 2015, for those claiming tax benefit of over Rs 3 crore. The rules are aimed at minimising tax avoidance for investments made by entities based in tax havens. Jaitley said in order to meet with our commitment to Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) initiative of OECD and G-20, the Finance Bill, 2016, includes provision for requirement of country by country reporting for companies with a consolidated revenue of more than 750 million euro. Elaborating further, Revenue Secretary Hasmukh Adhia told reporters that the international community is supporting GAAR. "The GAAR is something which we are committed to...Even if Mauritius don't come on negations on tax issues. Because of GAAR we will be able to tap some routes which are used for taking unnecessary tax advantage. We will be able to close that route," Adhia said. The Revenue Secretary said in response to BEPS whatever "steps we are supposed to take, country by country reporting requirement, we have put in Finance Bill this year". "BEPS agenda, GAAR agenda and POEM agenda will coincide in April 1, 2017," Adhia said. He said we will have more fair regime for taxation for everyone. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today favoured consolidation of public sectors banks, which will see capital infusion of Rs 25,000 crore next fiscal, once their balance sheets are strengthened. "The first and immediate agenda is to strengthen the banks. We will strengthen them by recapitalising the banks...," he said at post Budget interaction with media here. "And thereafter we are willing to look at consolidation among subsidiaries, consolidation of subsidiaries with the principal bank, consolidation of a weak bank to a strong bank subject to overall 52 per cent discipline that we have laid down for ourselves," he said. Over the long run, he said, the government will bring down stake in public sector banks to 52 per cent. However, with regard to IDBI Bank the government intends to lower its stake to even below 50 per cent. Government currently holds 80.16 per cent in IDBI Bank. "The reference to bring down to below 50 per cent was with regard to IDBI Bank," he said. The Bank Board Bureau created yesterday will be operationalised during 2016-17 and a roadmap for consolidation of Public Sector Banks will be spelt out. On recapitalisation of state-owned banks, the Finance Minister said, the government is open to providing more capital than that announced in the Budget. The proposal is to infuse Rs 25,000 crore crore in public sector banks in the next fiscal. "What I have announced today is not the last word or last amount as far as recapitalisation is concerned. Therefore, something more will happen," he said. "The banks are putting in special efforts to effect recoveries, with a focus on reviving stalled projects. To support the Banks in these efforts as well as to support credit growth, I have proposed an allocation of Rs 25,000 crore in BE 2016-17 towards recapitalisation of PSBs," he said in the Budget speech earlier in the day. If additional capital is required by these Banks, he said, the government will find the resources for doing so. "We stand solidly behind these banks," he added. The government today proposed to raise the Basic Customs Duty (BCD) on aluminium and aluminium products by 2.5 per cent, a move that will help the primary producers of the metal by checking influx of cheap imports. Basic Customs Duty is being increased for primary aluminium from 5 per cent to 7.5 per cent and that on aluminium products from 7.5 per cent to 10 per cent, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said while delivering his Budget speech for 2016-17 in the Lok Sabha today. Last week, the Parliamentary Committee on Public Enterprises had recommended the government to raise import duty on aluminium and raised "serious concerns" on "adverse impact" of cheaper imports on the profitability of state-owned Nalco. It said that out of total aluminium consumption in India, 55 per cent is met from aluminium scrap and 45 per cent through aluminium, on which the import duties are 2.5 per cent and 5 per cent respectively, resulting in cheap imports from countries like China. These factors have led to Nalco and other domestic firms running up losses as well as losing the drive to increase their capacity utilisation since investments on the same are not likely to lead to profits, it added. As a result, companies like Nalco are going for cost-cutting measures as well as retrenchments and laying off workers to survive, it pointed out. The panel took the line that apart from survival of the industry, this is an alarming scenario for factory workers and hence, urgent action from the government is warranted. In order to soothe nerves of foreign investors, the government today offered one-time settlement of cases emanating from retrospective amendment of tax laws, by asking companies to pay the basic tax demand and get waiver for interest and penalty. To provide a stable and predictable taxation regime, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in 2016-17 came out with a 'Direct Tax Dispute Resolution Scheme' to resolve cases pending in any Court, Tribunal, Arbitration or mediation under the Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement (BIPA).. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 Experts said this is a big step towards tax reform and will act as a breather for companies like Vodafone and Cairn, which have been facing multi-billion dollar tax liability following retrospective tax amendments made in 2012. "In order to give an opportunity to the past cases, which are ongoing under the retrospective amendment, I propose 'One Time' scheme of dispute resolution for them in which subject to their agreeing to withdraw any pending case lying in any Court or tribunal or any proceeding for arbitration, mediation, etc under BIPA, they can settle the case by paying only the tax arrears in which case liability of the interest and penalty shall be waived," Jaitley said in his speech. He today also reiterated that the government will "provide a stable and predictable taxation regime. We will not resort to such (retrospective) amendments in future". "I had also hoped then that the cases pending in various courts and other legal fora relating to certain retrospective amendments undertaken to the Income Tax Act, 1961, through the Finance Act 2012, will soon reach their logical conclusion. I would like to reiterate that we are committed to provide a stable and predictable taxation regime," he said. The government had in 2014 announced constitution of a high-level committee, which would oversee any fresh case where the Assessing Officer proposes to assess or reassess the income in respect of indirect transfers by applying the retrospective amendment. "In order to allay any fears of tax adventurism, this committee will now be chaired by the Revenue secretary and consist of Chairman CBDT and an expert from outside. This committee will effectively oversee the implementation of the assurances," Jaitley added. Jaitley said the tax department is moving towards a lower tax regime with non-litigious approach. Thus, while compliant taxpayers can expect a supportive interface with the department, tax evasion will be countered strongly. He said there are about 3 lakh tax cases pending with the first Appellate Authority with disputed amount being Rs 5.5 lakh crore. "Litigation is a scourge for a tax friendly regime and creates an environment of distrust in addition to increasing the compliance cost of the tax payers and administrative cost for the government," Jaitley said. A taxpayer who has an appeal pending as of today before the Commissioner (Appeals) can settle his case by paying the disputed tax and interest up to the date of assessment. "No penalty in respect of I-T cases with disputed tax up to Rs 10 lakh will be levied. Cases with disputed tax exceeding Rs 10 lakh will be subjected to only 25 per cent of the minimum of the imposable penalty for both direct and indirect taxes," he said. Jaitley said any pending appeal against a penalty order can also be settled by paying 25 per cent of the minimum of the imposable penalty. However, persons charged with criminal offences under specific Acts are barred from availing this scheme. The new Dispute Resolution Scheme (DRS) is intended towards solving the long pending tax disputes with MNCs and create favourable investment climate, experts said. "Retrospective amendments not to be made going forward and special regime to settle past disputes on indirect transfer tax, showcases Government's commitment towards creating a stable and predictable tax regime in India," said Naveen Aggarwal, Partner (Tax) KPMG in India. Earlier this month, the tax department took the unusual step of sending a reminder notice to Vodafone for payment of Rs 14,200 crore of taxes on an issue that is under arbitration. Even after two years, the arbitration in the Vodafone case has not yet started in absence of appointment of a presiding judge on a three member arbitration panel. The Rs 10,247-crore tax issue of Cairn Energy Plc, UK could manage to get a full panel constituted, even though the process started much later than Vodafone, only after the issue was brought to the notice of Prime Minister's Office. Gujarat Cabinet Minister Nitin Patel and two other BJP leaders were today acquitted by a local court in a case of alleged breach of model code of conduct during the 2007 Assembly polls. Additional Civil Judge of Kadi taluka H J Tanna let off Patel and two others by giving them the benefit of doubt as the prosecution failed to provide any substantial evidence to back their case. Along with Patel, who handles the Health portfolio among others, two BJP leaders of Kadi - Lalji Patel and Arvind Kapadia - were also booked for alleged breach of model code of conduct in November 2007. It was alleged that Nitin Patel, who was the BJP candidate from Kadi seat, along with Lalji and Kapadia, had organised an election rally in Luharkui area of the town and they used unparliamentary language while targeting Congress. At that time, Gujarat Congress had complained to the election authorities that Nitin Patel and others violated the poll code by making derogatory remarks about the party and its leaders. Based on the complaint, Kadi mamlatdar (a taluka-level government officer) lodged an FIR against the trio. Absolving them in the case, the court said the prosecution failed to provide any substantial evidence like video recording of the speech. Jammu and Kashmir Governor NN Vohra has requested Prime Minister Narendra Modi to inaugurate the 230-bedded super speciality hospital of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board in April this year. "The Governor has requested the Prime Minister to inaugurate the Super Speciality Hospital in April this year and for, this reason, he has been undertaking weekly visits to Kakryal to ensure the timely completion of this hospital," an official spokesman said. He said that Vohra who is also the Chairman of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board yesterday, visited the 230 bedded Super Speciality Hospital, which is being set up at a cost of Rs 300 crore, which is being established by the Shrine Board at Kakryal. He Governor reviewed the progress of the Hospital and, thereafter, assessed the preparedness for the Nursing Council of India's inspection of the Nursing College being set up by the Shrine Board adjacent to the Super Speciality Hospital. The admission of the first batch of students to the Nursing College is schedule to take place in July this year. The Centre today termed as "not maintainable" and opposed in the Supreme Court the plea of BJP leader Subramanian Swamy challenging constitutional validity of certain IPC provisions on hate speech and writing. Solicitor General Ranjit Kumar, appearing for the Centre, told the bench comprising justices Anil R Dave and Adarsh Kumar Goel that the plea is not a "writ petition but a personal interest litigation" as NBW has been already been issued against him with regard to alleged hate speeches. "He is aggrieved because a non-bailable warrant (NBW) has been issued against him by a court with regard to his hate speeches. He is being personaly prosecuted for an offence and, hence his plea is infact a personal interest litigation," he said, noting that the plea was not maintainable. The bench then asked Swamy whether converting the warrant from non-bailable to bailable one would suffice his cause or not. Swamy vehmently opposed the contention of the Solicitor General and said that his plea has already been considered by the previous bench headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi which has agreed to examine the constitutional validity of 156(3) of IPC and he is not on the issue of bailable warrant. "The previous bench of the Supreme Court had in its last order asked all the parties to file their affidavits with regard to the matter and it has agreed to examine the provision of IPC constitutionally," he said. He argued that his plea for quashing of NBW was already before the Gauhati High Court. The Solicitor General intervened and contended that Swamy can also raise the same issue of constitutional validity before the high court which is seized of his NBW issue. To this, the bench asked Swamy whether he has challenged the provisions before the high court or not and asked, "Why can't you raise the issue there." "How many high courts should I go to. Across the country, FIRs are being lodged against me by several state governments. This is a question of my fundamental right. This court is an approrpiate forum to examine the validity of the provisions of the IPC," Swamy said, adding that he has not challenged the validity before the high court. Swamy also sought transfer of matter to the bench headed by Justice Ranjan Gogoi, saying the previous bench headed by him was ready to examine the constitutional validity of the provisions. The apex court was hearing Swamy's plea against the order of an Assam trial court which issued an NBW against him for failing to appear before it on March 19, last year in a case of alleged hate speech. To this, the bench said that due to change of roster the matter has come before it and granted time to Swamy to think over the issue of raising it before the high court while posting the case for further hearing on July 11. On July 2, last year, the apex court had stayed the execution of a non-bailable warrant issued against him by the Assam court for allegedly delivering a hate speech at a university there. Swamy, who is facing a court case in Karimganj in Assam for allegedly delivering an inflammatory address at Kaziranga University, had sought relief from the apex court in the case. He has also challenged the constitutional validity of Section 153A (promoting enmity between different groups on grounds of religion, race, place of birth, residence, language, etc, and doing acts prejudicial to maintenance of harmony) of the Indian Penal Code. Swamy has alleged that in the "past few years", these sections have been invoked against him, "sometimes malafide and maliciously, by various authorities to penalise him for his clearheaded extensive research and his ideological beliefs and thereby make him conform to the norms of certain special ideological and religious groups". At least five recent FIRs or summons have been issued against him from Delhi, Mumbai, Karimganj, Mohali in Punjab and Thrissur in Kerala, for "presumed hate speech", he has said. The Bombay High Court today asked Maharashtra government to expedite further investigations by the state CID into the murder of rationalist Govind Pansare. A division bench of Justices Ranjit More and V L Achilya has been hearing petitions seeking probe by independent agencies into the murders of Pansare and another rationalist Narendra Dabholkar. The CBI is probing the role of right wing organisation Sanatan Sanstha in the murder of Dabholkar while the state CID is investigating the killing of Pansare. "There appears to be a good coordination between the investigating agencies probing the murder of Pansare and rationalist Narendra Dabholkar," the bench observed today while asking the authorities to speed up probe in Pansare murder case. Arguing on behalf of Pansare's family, lawyer Abhay Nevgi informed the court that charges are likely to be framed against the accused, Sameer Gaikwad, on March 8. Gaikwad, an activist of right-wing outfit Sanatan Sanstha, was arrested in September last year in connection with the murder of Pansare. Maharashtra CID had earlier told the court it had filed charge sheet against Gaikwad, the only arrested accused in the Pansare murder case, and further probe was underway as other accused were yet to be arrested. The high court judges today asked how can charges be framed if investigations are still going on. The bench asked the prosecution to make an application in the trial court praying to defer the framing of charges, as investigations were in progress. Earlier, dissatisfied by the probe, the family of Pansare had moved the High Court following which it had ordered a CID investigation into the murder. The high court is also hearing another petition filed by Dabholkar's family and had earlier ordered a CBI probe into the rationalist's killing. Both the petitions are being heard jointly by the bench. The CBI had earlier this month informed the high court it was considering to take a third opinion on the weapon used in the murders of rationalists Narendra Dabholkar, M M Kalburgi and Pansare, after Bengaluru and Mumbai forensic labs differed on the issue. While the Bengaluru-based forensic science laboratory (FSL) was of the opinion that different weapons were used in the murders, the Kalina FSL in Mumbai said that the weapon used in all the three cases were the same. Advocate Nevgi, appearing for the kin of both Dabholkar and Pansare, had on last occasion sought the probe in both the cases to be transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The court, however, noted that CBI was in touch with NIA, and hence there was no need to hand over probe to the latter at this stage. Dabholkar was shot dead in Pune on August 20, 2013. Pansare was shot at in Kolhapur by assailants on February 16, 2015. He succumbed to his injuries three days later in Mumbai. The Bombay High Court today pulled up Maharashtra government and others for not clarifying before the Supreme Court that the High Court had not ordered formation of a special investigation team to probe the alleged encounter death of Gurgaon resident Sandeep Gadoli in Mumbai. A division bench of Justices Ranjit More and V L Achilya said Maharashtra government had on its own told the High Court that it would form an SIT. Gadoli's brother Kuldeep had earlier filed a petition alleging that Gurgaon police killed his brother in a fake encounter and demanding an FIR against them. His second petition, heard today, seeks fresh autopsy of his brother's body. "The apex court was under the impression that the High Court had directed formation of SIT, which is not right," the bench said. "Why the facts were not disclosed to the Supreme Court when all the parties, including Maharashtra government, were present in the apex court?" the judges said. The Supreme Court had last week stayed the Bombay High Court order asking the Mumbai police to register FIR against the Gurgaon police. The apex court asked the HC to give a hearing to Gurgaon police first by making them party to the petition. Gadoli was killed in an alleged encounter by a team of Gurgaon police at a hotel in Mumbai on February 7. The HC today served notices to all the parties and adjourned the hearing to March 16. The present petition of Gadoli's brother claims that the autopsy report of J J Hospital has ignored several post-death injuries on the body. Kuldeep has also sought examination of call data records of the Gurgaon police officers and a woman who was with Sandeep at the time of the encounter. The Bombay High Court today dismissed a petition filed by NCP MLA Pankaj Bhujbal, son of former Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal, challenging an order of the Charity Commissioner summoning him for a trial related to an alleged fraud at the Mumbai Education Trust. Justice M S Sonak held that the Charity Commissioner has the same powers as a civil court and can summon anyone while conducting a hearing. Sunil Karve, a founder trustee of MET and a chartered accountant by profession, has filed a complaint before the Charity Commissioner alleging a fraud of Rs 177 crore at the institution. The Commissioner had recently summoned Pankaj Bhujbal, one of the trustees, to appear last week. Bhujbal challenged the order in the High Court. Karve has accused Chhagan Bhujbal and his family members, who are among the trustees of MET, of misappropriating Rs 177 crore of the trust funds and misusing its office building at the Bandra Reclamation here. Karve, who co-founded MET in 1989 with Bhujbal, had earlier filed a complaint with the Economic Offences Wing of Mumbai Police, alleging that Bhujbal family had usurped an entire floor in the MET building, using it as residence and also as the office of their furniture business. Karve also filed an application through his lawyer Sayaji Nangre before the Charity Commissioner to seek dismissal of Bhujbal, his wife Meena, Pankaj and nephew Sameer as trustees. Chhagan Bhujbal had dubbed the complaint as "politically-motivated". The Madras High Court bench here today declined to suspend the five-year jail term awarded to 35 crew members of a US company-owned ship M V Seaman Guard Ohio convicted for illegally possessing weapons and entering Indian waters off Tuticorin in 2013. Justice V S Ravi dismissed the interim prayer by the crew to suspend the five-year rigorous imprisonment awarded to them by the trial court on January 11 last. After hearing the argument of 'Q' branch police (intelligence wing) and the petitoners, the Judge rejected the prayer on the ground that the case was sensitive and posted the main petition to June 1 for final hearing. The government advocate submitted that the crew had no work in this part of the ocean and countered petitioners' submission that they were involved in preventing piracy in the Indian ocean. "When there is no piracy, where is the question of preventing?" he asked. He also said there was a possibility of the crew fleeing to their country and not returning to India like the Italian marines facing charge of murdering two Keralite fishermen. Till today, it was not known why the crew, who did not have valid documents, had entered Indian territory without permission, who they were and why they possessed arms during the stay in the Indian waters for 48 hours, he said adding there was also no proof of their bonafides. Arms carried by them were allowed only for the Army, paramilitary and police forces and it was not known how they had them in their possession. However, the petitioners submitted that they were innocent and had carried the arms only for anti-piracy activities. They pointed out they had been granted bail twice already but had not escaped and obeyed orders of the court. They had been in prison for nine months and hence the sentence should be suspended, they contended. The crew also claimed that Indian Arms Act would not apply to them and cases could neither be registered against them under the Act nor could they be convicted under it. Tuticorin District and Session Judge Rajasekhar had sentenced them to five years RI on January 11 last and also slapped a fine of Rs 3,000 each on the crew, comprising 12 Indians, three Ukranians, six British and 14 Estonian nationals. The crew were arrested on October 18, 2013 after their ship was intercepted by Coast Guard off Tuticorin port. The Madras High Court today dismissed a review petition filed against its order rejecting a plea for registering a criminal case against police in connection with the death of a historysheeter in an 'encounter' here in 2010. The First Bench, comprising Chief Justice Sanjay Kishan Kaul and Justice M M Sundresh, dismissed the petition filed by advocate P Pugalenthi, holding that "we do not find any error apparent in the order dated March 03,2015, warranting a review". The petitioner, also the Director of Prisoners Rights Forum, submitted that no magisterial inquiry was conducted into the cause of death, as mandated under Section176 (1-A) of the Code of Criminal Procedure, 1973. Pandi, wanted in 12 criminal cases, including murder, and his accomplice Velu, were killed in the 'encounter' with police on February 8, 2010 at Neelankarai here. A petition was filed in the court contending that as the death occurred at the hands of police, a case of murder ought to have been registered against the police personnel. The high court had dismissed it on March 3 last year, following which the review plea was filed. Rejecting the review prayer, the Bench in its order said "as there is no factual premise, there is no necessityto consider the compliance under Section 176(1-A)". It also said the applicant had not argued before it earlier on the applicability of Section 176(1-A) and the prayer then was only to register a case under IPC section 302 (murder). "We cannot presume that the deceased died during police custody. There is no basis that the deceased was in police custody," the court said. Delhi Police today faced tough questions for slapping sedition charge on JNUSU leader Kanhaiya Kumar by the Delhi High Court which asked it to show evidence against him of his "active role" in raising anti- India slogans and why the case was not lodged on February 9 itself. Though the prosecution maintained that Kanhaiya was "not cooperating" with the investigation and even came out with "contradictory" statements in joint interrogation by the Intelligence Bureau (IB) and Delhi Police, Justice Pratibha Rani wanted answers from the investigators to buttress their claims of having evidence on allegations which included that his speech was "more than political." "The presence at the spot is different from participation in the anti-national slogans," Justice Rani said and wanted to know "Whether he played any active role in raising anti-India slogans." "Whether the mobile recording, done at your (police) instance, showed that Kanhaiya had raised any such slogans," the bench asked the police during the hearing of his bail plea which was witnessed by his father, uncle and an elder brother and the cops assuring that the arrested students leader would "not be victimised" if it was found that he has no role. The family members were present for the second day today after the February 24 hearing. They were brought inside the courtroom under police escort as the Supreme Court has made it clear that it is the responsibility of the Delhi Police to ensure the safety and security of the lawyers and those closely associated with the accused. During the hearing in which there was a restricted entry only for lawyers of the parties and family members of the accused, Justice Rani, who reserved the verdict on Kanhaiya's bail plea for March 2, sought clarification from investigators as to how the accused was leading the group shouting slogans when other political group of the students were also present. "As per you (Delhi police) there were two (ABVP and AISF) groups. Explain how petitioner (Kanhaiya) was leading the group and shouted anti-India slogans," the judge asked and added "do the police have video evidence that Kanhaiya was raising anti-national slogans?" Delhi Police, represented through Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Tushar Mehta, told the bench that they do not have any video in this regard but there was evidence that the JNUSU President was raising slogans and "the speech (by him) was more than political." "If he has no role as claimed by him we assure that he is not victimised," he said. The ASG also said Kanhaiya denied his role even during his joint interrogation by the IB and Delhi Police. "During the joint interrogation carried by the IB and the Delhi Police it has been found that he has raised anti-India slogans. He is not cooperating in the investigations and giving contradictory statements. He is also denying his role," Mehta said. He said "there were statements of witnesses including security incharge of campus, a student who is not associated with any of the groups and others, and they have identified Kanhaiya and others raising anti-India slogans alongwith Afzal Guru's poster in their hand. He submitted the joint interrogation by the IB and Delhi police establishes Kanhaiya's presence during the incident. At this moment, the court asked several questions to the ASG as the submissions were not backed by video evidence. The bench also asked why police officials who were present in plain clothes there did not take any action when the ASG himself had argued that such statements by the accused did not "sound good in taste". "When your (Delhi) men were present on the spot there in the campus in civil dress why didn't they take cognizance when anti-India slogans were raised? Why they did not video record it? Why you waited for a TV channel video?" it asked. The bench said if there was an independent video of the incident, why the same was not sent for forensic test. It put these questions to police after senior advocate Kapil Sibal submitted that the JNUSU President had reached at the spot after he was informed that there was some clash among students and he never raised any slogans against the nation. Sibal contended that it was "some outsider with covered face who raised anti-India slogans and Kanhaiya was seen in the CCTV footage asking them for their identity card". "If Kanhaiya was found raising such slogans, why did the police present on the spot did not register any FIR on that day itself? Why it waited for TV recording," Sibal argued. Kanhaiya also distanced himself from Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya, also accused in the sedition case, and are presently undergoing custodial interrogation. He claimed that the application for organising the event in question was filed by Umar and Anirban. (Reopens LGD 40) Kanhaiya's counsel also said that the procession was led by Umar. "Nowhere Kanhaiya was seen shouting any slogan. The court can look into the video. There were some people with covered faces, who were shouting slogans. They have not been arrested. Who were they, have they not yet been identified by the police," Sibal contended. The counsel also referred to Kanhaiya's speech made on February 11, saying he is committed to the Constitution. However, Mehta said, "the February 11 speech is a defence created, based on the uproar he witnessed on the television after the February 9 incident at JNU campus here. He gave that speech to show he is a patriot." The ASG opposed Sibal's defence and said if "he (Kanhaiya) is allowed on bail in this kind of offence, the future generation of this country will be infected". "It is a very delicate situation. There appears to be a movement and this is beginning of the movement. We have to see who' financed it," ASG submitted, adding that if Kanhaiya is released, it can have pan India impact. "Releasing Kanhaiya can be point for anti-India movement," ASG said, adding that "similar slogans were raised in Jadavpur university after JNU. If he is given bail then such incidents will get a boost". The AAP government, however, took different stand in which it urged the court to grant him bail. "There is no clear CCTV footage. He is innocent. He is a man who stands by the Constitution. He is a student leader and so he was present there during the event," the AAP government counsel said. At the fag end of the hearing, the counsel representing Umar and Anirban told the bench that there was threat to them as the case has been transferred to Delhi police's special cell. The bench, however, said, "as of now, senior officials of police, who has been asked to ensure security of accused, have succeeded in doing so. The same is expected from the officers of the special cell. The Kerala High Court today directed the state government to produce records pertaining to proposed appointment of former DGP Vinson M Paul as Chief Information Commissioner. The court passed the order on a petition challenging recommendations made by the committee for appointment of Chief Information Commissioner and Information Commissioners on the ground that no proecedure was followed by the panel. Justice Mohammed Mustaq directed the government to produce the file leading to recommendations of the committee under Section 15(3) of RTI Act of Kerala. Petitioner S Somanathan Pillai alleged that the committee followed no procedure and recommended personnel without assessing the merit of candidates and on political considerations and whims and fancies. The selection panel, comprising Chief Minister Oommen Chandy, Industry Minister P K Kunhalikutty and opposition leader V S Achuthanandan, had met last week to shortlist the CIC and five Information Commissioners. The name of Paul was recommended to the Governor with dissent from Achuthanandan. Not getting any information, Gupta filed a complaint with the CIC. He wanted access to Christian Marriage Act, 1972 from the website. Gupta wanted the bare act but it was not properly formatted. He claimed that he is required to study bare acts but Law Ministry website was no help at all. Wanting to access bare acts in PDF format, he wanted email of the Legislative Department CPIO. In his order, Acharyulu had said it was a duty upon the state to inform citizens about the Law as and when they were made and the citizens also have the right to know of the Law. "If is impossible for any Government to expect obedience to their Law without informing the people in legible form. It is more difficult especially when the text of Law is not available in easy accessible format," he had said. Directing the Ministry to pay a token compensation of Rs 10,000 to the library of National Law School of India University, Bengaluru, for causing loss of time of several law students, he had said the law and enactments are in public domain and none can claim copyright on the law. "Section 4 mandates the Ministry of Law to place the texts of enactments. It is the duty of Legislative Department to provide information about access of every updated enactment. It is not just an recommended obligation under Section 4(1)(a) of RTI Act, but a constitutional mandate, a legal necessity, and an essential requirement for peace," he had said. The Ministry had challenged it before the Delhi High Court through a writ petition. Three pro-democracy activists went on trial in Hong Kong today over charges relating to mass rallies in 2014, with the movement's student leader accusing the government of "unreasonable" prosecution. Joshua Wong 19, was the teenage face of the Occupy Movement, which brought parts of the semi-autonomous Chinese city to a standstill for more than two months as protesters called for free elections for Hong Kong's next leader. Wong and two other prominent student leaders, Alex Chow and Nathan Law, appeared in court on charges of taking part in an unlawful assembly and inciting others to join it. "It's unreasonable for the government to give us charges... We were just trying to protect our own rights," he told reporters outside the court. All three pleaded not guilty. They could face up to five years in prison if convicted. "We are still confident to get a favourable outcome because we have persisted in peace and non-violence," Wong told reporters. "We believe finally we can find justice." Several police officers testified at today's hearing and the court saw video footage of protesters climbing over a gate to enter government headquarters. Wong's lawyer Lawrence Lok said testimony by different police officers about the incident was almost identical. "How do you explain the phenomenon? Is it a coincidence... was it copying?" Lok asked. Wong is facing several other charges, including obstructing police, over his participation in the pro-democracy rallies. He has also been charged with contempt of court for violating an order to clear the Mongkok protest camp -- scene of some of the most violent clashes during the demonstrations. Wong has said he is the target of "political prosecution" and a "witch hunt" against those at the forefront of the Occupy Movement. Demonstrators called for fully free elections for the city's next leader. But they failed to secure any concessions from the city government, which supported a Beijing-backed political reform package under which candidates would have been vetted by a loyalist committee. Filmmaker Quentin Tarantino says he will never work with the Disney Studios. The 52-year-old director's remarks came following a dispute over cinema availability for "The Hateful Eight," reported Digital Spy. "No. I would never work (with Disney) in any way, shape or form after what they did to me," he said. Tarantino wanted "The Hateful Eight" to be released on maximum screens, ideally projected in 70mm, but due to the release, just a week after "Star Wars: The Force Awakens," he found it hard to secure all the access he wanted, and in particular found himself in conflict with Disney. He claimed to keep the box-office frontrunner on the screens the studio did not make space for his film. Britain's senior-most Indian-origin minister Priti Patel today complained over the government's decision to block out ministers in favour of Britain's exit from the European Union (EU), the so-called "Brexit". UK's employment minister and Prime Minister David Cameron's Indian Diaspora Champion, who is in favour of Brexit,protested that the "Vote Leave" campaign group of ministers were being kept in the dark about propaganda operations being drawn up by civil servants within their own departments in the lead up to the June 23 referendum. "It is important that the civil service maintains impartiality during the EU referendum. [Cabinet Secretary] Jeremy Heywood's unconstitutional act threatens the reputation of the civil service," 43-year-old Patel said. "Secretaries of State [ministers] are responsible for their departments. For an unelected official to prevent them being aware of the information they need for their duties is wrong," she said. But Downing Street dismissed claims that the move was "unconstitutional". "The role of the civil service is to support the government's policies and position of the day. Ministers who choose to take a different view are opposing that government position," a spokesperson for Cameron's office said. The issue of the EU referendum has divided the Cameron-led Conservative party and the Cabinet - with 17 members in favour of staying in the EU but five wanting to leave. An Indo-Canadian police officer has been suspended from duty and charged with two counts of impaired driving in Canada. Constable Harinder Paul Singh Pabla, serving with Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in the city of Burnaby, is accused in two incidents -- both of which took place while he was off-duty, Burnaby RCMP said in a statement. "Given that the matters are before the court, no further comment will be provided at this time," the RCMP detachment was quoted as saying. Pabla has been suspended and internal Code of Conduct investigations have been launched against him, the Vancouver Sun reported. He is scheduled to appear in a provincial court in the Canadian city of Surrey on March 3 and later on March 10. One of Indonesia's oldest red-light districts was demolished today in an operation overseen by hundreds of police and troops, as authorities press on with a plan to close all brothel areas in the Muslim-majority country. Dozens of illegal bars and brothels along a polluted riverside strip in north Jakarta -- known locally as Kalijodo -- were reduced to rubble by excavators. The bars -- many marked by neon beer signs and illustrations of beautiful women luring men -- were torn down by the machines in a matter of minutes, leaving behind nothing but splintered wood, brick and old mattresses. Elsewhere police searched a three-storey hotel for any remaining residents before a digger ripped the entire structure to the ground with a spectacular crash. North Jakarta Mayor Rustam Effendi, who oversaw the demolition, said the buildings were illegal and the demolition would make way for a public park. "There was open prostitution there and all kinds of other things as a result, like liquor," he told AFP. During the eviction of residents over the past week, police seized and destroyed large quantities of alcohol. The plan angered long-time residents and there had been fears that protesters would try to disrupt the demolition. But thousands living in the area agreed to leave in the days beforehand and the operation went smoothly. Jakarta authorities decided to take action after a fatal car accident early this month blamed on a man who had been drinking in the riverside shanty area. Hundreds of curious onlookers from neighbouring areas and trash collectors seeking scrap materials gathered to watch the spectacle, despite heavy rain. One elderly food vendor welcomed the idea of a park in the area, but another was worried the destruction of Kalijodo would hit his business. A Myanmar court has sentenced three Muslim and Hindu interfaith activists to two years with hard labour, their lawyer said today, after activists raised fears over a campaign against them by Buddhist nationalists. The two men and one woman from the central city of Mandalay were arrested in July 2015 and accused of crossing Myanmar's frontier with India after they posted pictures of themselves at the border on social media, according to Thein Than Oo, a lawyer representing two of the defendants. "Zaw Zaw Latt, Pwint Phyu Latt and Zaw Win Bo were sentenced two years with hard labour" under the immigration act at Mandalay's Chan Aye Tharzan court on Friday, he told AFP. "I think it's too harsh," he added. He said Zaw Zaw Latt and Pwint Phyu Latt, both Muslims, will face a further trial on March 3, accused under the unlawful associations act for a separate visit into the territory of ethnic minority rebels in northern Kachin state. Fortify Rights has slammed the trial as "politically motivated" and called for the release of the three, who are all members of a Mandalay-based interfaith peace network. In a statement earlier this month the watchdog said the arrests came after a campaign against Zaw Zaw Latt on social media and in a journal linked to the Buddhist nationalist monk movement Ma Ba Tha, whose anti-Muslim rhetoric has gained in influence in recent years. Myanmar has earned plaudits internationally for sweeping reforms since the end of junta rule in 2011, including a political opening that enabled Aung San Suu Kyi to lead her National League for Democracy to victory in November elections. Her party is due to form a government in April. But campaigners have warned that some freedoms have been rolled back, with several activists detained for Facebook posts satirising the army in recent months. Myanmar has suffered sporadic bouts of religious bloodshed since 2012, mainly aimed at Muslims who were also marginalised in last year's election campaign, with even Suu Kyi's party failing to put forward a single candidate from the minority group. In Iraq, the death toll from devastating back-to-back market bombings carried out by the Islamic State group the previous day in eastern Baghdad climbed to 73 today, officials said. Several of the critically wounded died overnight while 112 people remain in hospital, two police officials said. Also, at least five people were still missing after the blast that ripped through the crowded Mredi market in the Shiite district of Sadr City, followed by a suicide bombing amid the crowd that had quickly gathered at the site to help the victims. Three medical officials confirmed the latest death toll, which rose from the toll of 59 reported late Sunday. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Iraq's Prime Minister, Haider al-Abadi, called on security forces to "exert further efforts to prevent the terrorists from carrying out their crimes against innocent civilians." Al-Abadi, in a statement released late yesterday, said the attacks "will not stop us ... But they will increase the determination" of the army, security forces and paramilitary troops to dislodge the militants from areas under their control. The special UN envoy to Iraq, Jan Kubis, called the Sadr City bombings a "particularly vicious and cowardly terrorist attack" aimed against "peaceful civilians who were going about their daily business." "It is clearly aimed at inflaming sectarian strife," he said today. The Islamic State group, which controls key areas in northern and western Iraq, promptly claimed responsibility for Sunday's blasts. The militant Sunni Muslim group regularly targets government forces, civilians and especially Shiites, who the IS regards as heretics. The market bombings in Sadr City were the deadliest attack in a wave of explosions that targeted other commercial areas in and outside Baghdad yesterday and brought the day's overall death toll to 92. Seven other civilians were killed in attacks elsewhere and in Baghdad's western suburb of Abu Ghraib, security forces earlier Sunday repelled an attack by IS militants that killed at least 12 members of the government and paramilitary troops and wounded 35 others. Ireland's election has produced a parliament full of feuding factions and no obvious road to a majority government, spurring lawmakers to warn that the country could face a protracted political deadlock followed by a second election. For the first time in Irish electoral history, the combined popular vote on Friday for Ireland's two political heavyweights the Fianna Fail and Fine Gael parties fell below 50 per cent as voters infuriated by austerity measures shifted their support to a Babel of anti-government voices. The results left parliament with at least nine factions and a legion of loose-cannon independents, few of them easy partners for a coalition government, none of them numerous enough to make a difference on their own. "There's a sense of bewilderment, first of all. We're a long way from sitting down together and talking about what our next options are," said Regina Doherty, a Fine Gael lawmaker for Meath, northwest of Dublin. With 12 seats in Ireland's 158-member parliament still to be filled, the ruling Fine Gael won 46 seats, longtime foe Fianna Fail 42, the Irish nationalist Sinn Fein 22 and junior government partner Labour just six. An eye-popping array of tiny parties, umbrella groups and parochial mavericks won the rest. Leading members of Fianna Fail which rebounded in this vote just five years after facing electoral ruin for nearly bankrupting the country said they would find it extremely hard to forge any coalition that keeps Prime Minister Enda Kenny's Fine Gael in power. "I've just fought a difficult three-week campaign during which people said to me they want rid of this government, they don't want Enda Kenny as taoiseach anymore," said Fianna Fail lawmaker Willie O'Dea, using the formal Gaelic title for Ireland's premier. "Our supporting a Fine Gael government would be doing exactly what we told our voters we wouldn't do." The trouble is, Ireland's voters have never produced a parliament like this before. And there's no third party strong enough to give Fianna Fail or Fine Gael a parliamentary majority of at least 79 seats. Both parties have ruled out working with Sinn Fein, the only party that could get either of them close. When the new parliament convenes March 10 to elect a prime minister to appoint a government, both Kenny and Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin say they will put themselves forward as rival candidates. Failure to create a new government would mean Kenny's 5-year-old coalition with Labour continues indefinitely in a lame-duck caretaker role. IT exports from Karnataka are expected to net Rs 2.20 lakh crore in 2015-16 and direct employment in the sector will be around 10 lakh as per Nasscom estimates, state Governor Vajubhai Vala said today. In his address to the joint session of both Houses of the state legislature, he said Karnataka was the leader in the IT sector, contributing to about one-third of the country's IT export revenues. Vala said Bengaluru is the only Indian city to be ranked among the best 20 startup ecosystems across the world as per the 'Global Startup Ecosystem Ranking Report 2015'. Karnataka is also the first state in the country to announce a multi-sectoral startup policy 2015-20 to give boost to the startup culture in the state, he said. The IT capital is home to around 4,000 active tech startups and the government has set up a warehouse in Bengaluru in association with Nasscom, Vala said. A statewide GIS is being established at a cost of Rs 150 crore and Incubation Centres and Common Instrumentation Facility for biotech sector have been set up in Biotech Park at Bengaluru, Vala said. To encourage entrepreneurship, nine incubation centres have been sanctioned for engineering colleges across the state, he said, adding the Indian Institute of Information Technology in Dharwad has started functioning. The IT Skills Development Society is providing training to unemployed youth in basic ICT skills and the regional Science Centres in Dharwada and Mangaluru are operational, the Governor said. The Jammu and Kashmir government has urged the Union Home Ministry to uniformly enhance the monthly honorarium of all the Special Police Officers (SPOs) from Rs 3,000 to Rs 6,000 effective from January 1. "On the directions of Governor N N Vohra, the State Home Department has, in a letter to the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, requested the central government to sanction uniform enhancement of monthly honorarium of all SPOs without imposing any pre-condition so as to enable the state government to issue necessary orders in this regard," an official spokesman said. The state government has pointed out that the SPOs have been carrying out operational duties through direct participation in anti-militancy operations, gathering intelligence, guarding vital installations and some of them work as force multipliers during law and order situations. Keeping in view their varied and interchangeable roles depending upon the ground requirements, it is difficult to categorize them on the basis of their skills or nature of the duty etc and prescribe different scales of honorarium to them. At present, there are around 24,068 SPOs in the state and keeping in view their services, the state government has urged the government of India to fulfill their long-pending demand. The enhancement of the SPOs' remuneration is part of the special package announced by the Prime Minister during his visit to Srinagar on November 7, last year. Japan signed an agreement today to supply defense equipment to the Philippines, the first such Japanese defense pact in a region where the US allies have been alarmed by China's aggressive advances in disputed territories. Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said the agreement he signed with Japanese ambassador to Manila, Kazuhide Ishikawa, provides a framework for the supply of defense equipment and technology and would allow the Asian countries to carry out joint research and development projects. Future talks will determine what defense equipment could be supplied, although Gazmin told reporters without elaborating that Japan has initially offered a surveillance aircraft. "This agreement would really substantiate the Philippines and Japan being strategic partners," Gazmin said in remarks during the signing ceremony at the Department of Defense in metropolitan Manila which was not opened to the press. "Let me stress that what underpins this agreement is not only our desire to enhance our respective defense capabilities but also to contribute to regional peace and stability." Neither side mentioned China's increasingly assertive behavior in disputed areas but that has been a major security concern by both countries, which are close American allies. "It's not directed against any country," Gazmin said of the new defense deal on Saturday. The Philippines has turned to the United States, and now Japan, as it scrambles to modernize its ill-equipped military after territorial disputes with China began escalating four years ago. Japan has a separate territorial spat with China that has flared on and off in the East China Sea. The Philippines' security aspirations dovetail with Japan's nascent steps to be a larger security presence in the region, where memories remain of its brutal World War II invasions. The two countries have openly brought their security and political ties to new levels, including by holding joint naval search and rescue drills last year. Philippine President Benigno Aquino III and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have swapped visits and vowed to intensify defense cooperation, sparking talks about a possible security pact that will allow Japanese forces to hold larger drills with Filipino troops in the Philippines. The Philippines has signed such visiting forces accords with the United States and Australia. Last year, Japan's parliament approved contentious legislation that enhances the role of the country's military by loosening post-World War II constraints. Its military can now defend its allies even when the country isn't under attack and work more closely with other nations. Japan has forged similar pacts with the US and Australia, but the Philippines is the first Southeast Asian country to have such a defense deal with Tokyo, Gazmin said. It can't order the military to shoot at the crowd, the Supreme Court today said while dismissing a plea seeking giving free hand to Army to control "unruly mob" during the Jat agitation in Haryana. A bench headed by Chief Justice of India T S Thakur said that Army was capable enough to deal with any situation and as and when the situation arises things will be taken care of. "You want us to issue direction to Army to shoot at the mob. We can't issue such directions. We can't allow the army to open fire at the mob. As and when the situation arises things will be taken care of. Army is capable enough to deal with any situation," the bench also comprising justices R Bhanumathi and U U Lalit said. It said that whoever will take law in his own hand will be prosecuted as per the law and dismissed the petition as withdrawn. The bench observed that had the petitioner advocate Ajay Jain sought compensation to the victim of the violent agitation, it would have thought of considering it. "Had you asked for compensation to the victims of the agitation, we would have thought of considering it," the bench said. Petitioner then sought court's permission to amend the prayer in his petition which the bench denied, saying it can't allow him to do so. The bench also refrained itself from imposing the cost on petitioner after he kept on insisting for consideration of his plea. He, however, later agreed to withdraw his plea. The petitioner in his plea has sought direction for Haryana government to give complete free hand to the Army/Para Military forces to control the situation which includes inter alia to fire at the mob to bring the situation under control. He has also sought direction to local administration of Rohtak, Haryana to hand over the administration to Army and not to interrupt in any manner whatsoever in the Army's affair in dealing with the situation. "Direct the Union of India to provide adequate number of Army/Para Military forces as is required to deal with mob of 20,000 people roaming in or around district Rohtak," the plea had said. Police today arrested nine persons in connection with arson and vandalism at Uchana Police Station during the 10-day quota agitation by the Jat community. The Police Station in-charge, Om Prakash, had on Februray 21 filed a complaint saying that about 125 people indulged in arson and vandalism the previous evening which resulted in a loss of government property worth over Rs 5.5 lakh. Police had registered cases against unknown persons and today arrested nine using CCTV footage and other evidences. SP Abhishek Jorwal said they are trying to trace the hooligans behind the violence using audio and video footage. Many have been identified. Arrests are being made and nobody involved in the violence would be spared, he said. Amid a raging row at JNU over an event against hanging of Afzal Guru, the varsity today made certain changes in the top management including appointment of a new Rector. In an emergent meeting of the JNU Executive Council held today, the varsity appointed Chintamani Mohapatra professor at the School of International Studies as the Rector. Terming the appointments a "strictly routine" affair, JNU Registrar Bhupinder Zutshi told PTI, "While Mohapatra has been appointed the Rector, professor Prasanjit Sen who was currently holding the position has been granted extension of one month to facilitate the transition face". Zutshi, who himself is officiating as Registrar, is due to retire from this position on March 31 but he will continue to be a professor in the varsity. "A three-member search committee was formed today to finalise the appointment of the next Registrar. The vacancies for the post were advertised and applications have already been received," he said. The decisions taken in the meeting have left a section of students and teachers disappointed who have been demanding the Registrar's removal over handling of the current row at the university. "For the past one week students and teachers have been demanding the removal of the Registrar but the administration has not paid any heed to our demands. This shows that there is some kind of larger conspiracy by the administration to act against the students," a member of JNU Teachers Association (JNUTA) said. A sit-in dharna was also organised by students outside the administration block of the university demanding the same. "We wanted the Vice Chancellor to take action against the Registrar for misguiding him in the way February 9 incident should have been handled," said JNU student's union vice president Shehla Rashid Shora. Jawaharlal Nehru University is caught in a row over an event on the campus to commemorate the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru, where "anti-national" slogans were allegedly raised. The varsity's students union president Kanhaiya Kumar is in judicial custody in a sedition case in connection with the February 9 event. Two other students Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya are in police custody in the same case. (REOPENS DES 57) Saurabh Kumar Sharma, JNUSU Joint Secretary, who is the lone ABVP member in the varsity's students union, today filed a complaint against the Dean of Students Welfare for having granted permission for the February 9 event despite the application not having all the required information. Sharma filed the complaint against Dean of Students Welfare with the Vice-Chancellor. The Delhi High court today reserved its verdict on the bail plea of JNU students union president Kanhaiya Kumar, who refuted the allegation of police that he was raising anti-India slogans at an event on February 9 at the campus. Justice Pratibha Rani, before whom the Delhi Police claimed that they have witnesses who have identified Kanhaiya and others raising anti-India slogans, will pronounce the order on March 2. Kumar, who is in the judicial custody, submitted through senior advocate Kapil Sibal, that anti-India slogans inside the campus were raised by people with covered face. The senior advocate also questioned the conduct of the Delhi police on registering the FIR on the basis of a TV video. He asked why the FIR was not registered on that day itself if Kanhaiya and others had raised anti-India slogans as police personnel were present in plain cloths during the event and had witnessed the incident. The High Court was told by him that the application for organising the event in question was filed by Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya, also accused in the case and are presently undergoing custodial interrogation. "Obviously, Kanhaiya had no part to play as he had not applied for the event. There itself the case against Kanhaiya goes," the counsel said. Sibal, who was assisted by another senior advocate Rebeca John, submitted that the court can itself find from the video that Kanhaiya himself was seen asking people with muffled face, also accused of raising anti-India slogans, for their identity cards. Sibal claimed that there was no forensic report of the recording which could establish that Kanhaiya had raised anti-India slogans which attract the sedition charges. Taking note of Sibal's submissions, the court questioned the investigating agency whether there was any CCTV footage or mobile recording which could establish that Kanhaiya raised such slogans. "Whether there is contemporaneous recording where the slogans were raised, pre and post the event," the court asked. The court also questioned Delhi police as to why they did not register the FIR when its officials were present during the event and must have noticed the alleged incident. Additional Solicitor General Tushar Mehta, appearing for Delhi police, defended its stand on arresting Kanhaiya, saying there was evidence, including pamphlets and statements of the witnesses, which clearly state that Kanhaiya and others were shouting anti-India slogans and were holding Afzal Guru's posters. Mehta also submitted that there was a joint probe of the Intelligence Bureau and Delhi police in which the arrested accused are found raising slogans. "In the light of these evidences, he (Kanhaiya) was very much there on the spot, along with other accused," ASG said, adding that the investigating agency is also probing into the financial aspect behind this incident which is part of a larger criminal conspiracy. He contended that this case has been transferred from Delhi police to its anti-terror cell (Special cell). However, the ASG's claim was opposed by AAP government appointed senior standing counsel, Rahul Mehra, who said Kanhaiya is a student and he cannot be involved in anti-India movement. "He is innocent. He is a man who is standing by the Constitution, which also reflects from his speech given on February 11, that he loves his country," Mehra contended. He further said, "Though Kanhaiya was present, there is no direct evidence and nothing to establish that he raised anti- India slogans." "As a state (Delhi), I pray the court to grant him bail," Mehra said. Kanhaiya's father, uncle and elder brother were present during the hearing, which started at 2.15 pm and concluded at 5.30 pm. After the counsel concluded the arguments, the court said, "The order is likely to be pronounced day after tomorrow (March 2). The JNU row rocked the Gujarat Assembly today as charges and counter charges flew thick and fast between treasury and opposition benches. Legislators of ruling BJP slammed Congress leaders for supporting "traitors", while opposition MLAs hit back, asking the saffron outfit not to mislead the country in the name of their version of nationalism. Speaking during a discussion on the motion of thanks to Governor for his address, Rajnikant Patel (BJP) justified the police action against JNU students who organised an event to commemorate the hanging of Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru, where "anti-national" slogans were raised. "It is unfortunate that Afzal Guru's death anniversary was celebrated in JNU, where some people raised anti-India slogans and called for India's dismemberment. It is necessary to take strict action against such persons," Patel said. In an apparent reference to former Home Minister and Congress leader P Chidambaram's reported remark on Guru's death sentence, he said, "Recently, a former Cabinet Minister said the decision on Afzal Guru's sentence was not proper. I strongly condemn such remarks. The decision was taken by the court. How can he question court's decision? Is he above the Supreme Court?" The BJP MLA also cited former Home Secretary G K Pillai's recent claim that the affidavit in the Ishrat Jahan encounter case was changed at the "political" level. "Even if we do not give importance to (Pakistani-American terrorist) David Headley's claim about Ishrat Jahan being a LeT operative, the former Home Secretary revealed that the affidavit was changed to malign the image of (then Gujarat Chief Minister) Narendra Modi," said Patel. Congress leader Shaktisinh Gohil, pointing towards the treasury bench, said it is foolish to think that power can be retained by sending someone (JNU student leader Kanhaiya Kumar) to jail. Legislative Affairs Minister Pradeepsinh Jadeja objected to Gohil's indirect reference to JNU students, saying it is improper to comment on an issue which is sub-judice. Gohil, however, put forward his point by giving an example of Lord Krishna (Kanhaiya) and his uncle King Kansa. "King Kansa sent Kanhaiya (Lord Krishana) in jail to save his own rule. However, did imprisoning Kanhaiya help Kansa? His act eventually shook the pillars of his kingdom," stated Gohil, while challenging Jadeja to find flaw in the statement. He asked BJP not to mislead the country in the name of their version of nationalism. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's car was today attacked by protesters allegedly belonging to Akali Dal who pelted stones on the vehicle breaking its windshield but the AAP leader escaped unhurt. The Aam Aadmi Party alleged that it was an "orchestrated attack" and that police stood by as Kejriwal's car was targeted with rods and stones. Police said activists belonging to Akali Dal and Danga Peedit Association were protesting against Kejriwal outside the venue where the Delhi Chief Minister was holding a party function here. Due to presence of protesters, the police decided to arrange his exit from the back side of the banquet hall, a police spokesman said. But, the protesters came to know about it. They rushed there and pelted stones, breaking the wind shield of Kejriwal's Innova vehicle. Kejriwal immediately lodged a strong protest with Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Rural, Harcharan Singh Brar, who was present there, telling him that whatever happened was not right. The Delhi Chief Minister then drove away in his car. Kejriwal later said that his car was attacked by sticks and stones and that Akali Dal and Congress were nervous. "My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals n congress nervous? They can't break my spirits," the Delhi Chief Minister said on twitter. Kejriwal was in the city on the last day of his five -day tour of Punjab during which he visited various cities including Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Sangrur and Bathinda to reach out to people ahead of 2017 Assembly polls. He was scheduled to visit Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib and Patiala before returning to Delhi today. The AAP lashed out at the ruling Akali Dal in Punjab over the attack. "In a well orchestrated attack the goons sent by Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones & rods as police stood by. "The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was by only God's grace that he escaped unhurt," party leader Ashish Khetan tweeted. Kejriwal was at Boha village of Ludhiana where two dalit youths Harinder Singh and Jatinder Singh were killed in alleged "fake encounter" by police a couple of years ago. "Terror of Badals is all set to end after one year", Kejriwal told the family of the slain youths. (REOPENS DEL26) Meanwhile, AAP's Ludhiana zone coordinator Col C M Lakhanpal (Retd) strongly condemned the attack on Kejriwal's car and alleged that the police allowed the attackers to reach the area as part of a "conspiracy". Questioning why police did not make any arrest, he alleged that an aide of a ruling SAD MLA was involved and present on the spot but was allowed to escape. "The SAD-BJP are completely frustrated due to the response of the people to Kejriwal," he said. "Such cowardly attacks cannot deter Aam Aadmi Party from continuing its activities and programmes in Punjab," he said. (REOPENS NRG30) Meanwhile, Punjab Pradesh Congress Committee president Amarinder Singh lashed out at Kejriwal for "trying to blame" Congress workers for the attack on him and linking the party with the Akalis. "Let me make it clear that Congress has nothing to do with the attack," he said. "I condemn the attack irrespective of who sponsored it," he said, adding "I and my party are sufficient enough to deal with you and I don't need any body's support for that, much less the Akalis". "Given his history and reputation of sponsoring attacks on himself to seek publicity, particularly after failing to draw attention in Punjab, it is important to independently probe the people behind the attack on Kejriwal in Ludhiana," he said. Condemning the attack on Kejriwal, AAP leader Sanjay Singh alleged that it was a conspiracy hatched by Akalis to "kill" the Delhi Chief Minister and demanded a probe by a High Court judge. "It was a well-planned conspiracy hatched by Akalis to eliminate Kejriwal, who has emerged as 'mahsiya' for the people of Punjab," the AAP leader said at Chandigarh. "Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal is responsible for the attack as it was all planned at the behest of him," he alleged. AAP also alleged that police were "hand-in-glove" with the attackers. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, who is facing sedition charge, today said he is a "bigger patriot" than Prime Minister Narendra Modi and claimed that BJP does not want to upset PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti by arresting the "real traitors" in the JNU case. "I have been booked for sedition. I have been raising voice in favour (of) Dalits, the backwards (Pichchdo) and the poor which is why I am an anti- for them (BJP). My voice cannot be muzzled. I will continue to fight for them," Kejriwal said in a series of tweets. Kejriwal claimed that those who raised anti-India slogans at the varsity campus were from Kashmir. "I am a bigger patriot than Modi ji. I ask why he has not yet arrested those who had raised slogans for the destruction of the country....Because those who raised such slogans are from Kashmir and if they are arrested, Mehbooba Mufti will get angry. "Our soldiers are being martyred everyday on the border. And Modi ji is saving the anti- elements to form government in Kashmir," Kejriwal said, referring to the on-going talks between BJP and PDP to form government in Jammu (and) Kashmir following the death of Mufti Mohammad Sayeed. Kejriwal, Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi, CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury are among nine persons who have been booked on sedition charges yesterday by the Hyderabad Police. An FIR has been registered against Rahul, Kejriwal, Yechury, Congress leaders Anand Sharma and Ajay Maken, CPI leader D Raja, JD(U) Spokesperson KC Tyagi, JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar and JNU research scholar Umar Khalid on the order of a court based on a complaint filed by lawyer Janardhan Goud. The Centre has shown interest in Kerala government's 'Operation Anantha', a flagship flood-mitigation drive, and is set to replicate it in other parts of the country, Jiji Thomson, who retires as state Chief Secretary said here today. "The Centre had sought a report on Operation Anantha last week to replicate it in other parts of the country. Prime Minister Narenda Modi has special interest in the project," Thomson, who retired today, told reporters here. Thomson had masterminded 'Operation Anantha' to equip the state capital face floods and free it of illegal encroachments. Under the first phase of the mission, 30 km of canals and storm water drains in the city had been desilted and widened up to 3.5 metres, Thomson, who has now been appointed as a Special Advisor to Chief Minister, said. He said they had collected and verified archival records and documents to find out the exact locations of canals and drains crisscrossing the city. Though the drive was launched in the capital, similar missions had been implemented successfully in other parts of the state, including Kannur and Ernakulam districts, and a number of water bodies and canals were cleaned, he said. "All these were triggered by the one action which we launched here. There might be shortcomings. But I am happy that we could achieve this much. The state budget also made allocations to replicate the mission in other districts," he said. Operation Anantha is being implemented as a joint initiative of various departments and agencies including district administration, Suchitwa Mission and Public Works Department, he said. Besides Operation Ananntha, Thomson said the natural gas pipeline project was also one of the projects which he wanted to implement in the state. "GAIL is one of the most significant projects considering the state's development. Natural gas is the backbone of development. The procedures are going on and it will be implemented soon after the rest of the processes in this regard are completed," he said. Thomson also wanted the state to have a separate waste management authority to tackle the growing solid and bio-waste menace. Hong Kong's pro-democracy camp won a key by-election today, with one young activist who advocates independence from China also taking tens of thousands of votes in closely-watched polls at a time of rising political tension. While it was a candidate from one of the established pro- democracy parties who won the election, the results showed growing support for the more radical "localist" movement, which advocates far greater autonomy from Beijing amid rising concerns over Chinese interference. The movement grew out of the failure of pro-democracy rallies in 2014 to win concessions on political reform and advocates more radical tactics to force change. Student Edward Leung, 24, one of the leaders of localist group Hong Kong Indigenous, took more than 66,000 votes in the election held yesterday in New Territories East -- far more than observers expected. That secured him third place behind pro-Beijing candidate Holden Chow in second and Alvin Yeung of the established pro-democracy Civic Party who won the seat. Yeung took 160,880 votes to Chow's 150,329 in the by-election, triggered when a prominent pro-democracy politician stood down. The seat in the mainly middle-class constituency in the north of Hong Kong is traditionally a democratic stronghold. Leung's slice of the vote was an indication of widening sympathy for localists, some of whom were involved in clashes with police earlier this month which left more than 100 injured. Leung is currently facing a rioting charge for his involvement. He said his group must be taken more seriously after the election result. "In the past, the government, political parties, mainstream media have billed us as rioters. Now we have a mandate from 66,000 voters," Leung said. Winning candidate Yeung has distanced himself from Leung's radicalism, but said the result should make the government sit up and listen. "The number of votes obtained by myself and Edward Leung is not trivial. It is reflecting a serious governance issue," he said. Hong Kong was handed back to China by former colonial power Britain in 1997 and its freedoms are protected by a 50-year agreement. Pop diva Madonna is facing a potential ban from the Philippines for allegedly "ridiculing" the country's flag during her recent concerts. The "Material Girl" hitmaker performed sold out shows in Manila on February 24 and 25 as part of her Rebel Heart Tour, and during her gigs, she wrapped the country's flag around her body, letting some of the fabric hit the floor. Laws in the conservative country state the flag cannot be worn and is not allowed to touch the ground. "She ridiculed our flag," Teodoro Atienza, chief of the heraldry section of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, said. "They may face deportation and might not be able to return to the country," Atienza added. "She also allowed the flag to touch the stage floor, which is another violation." The controversy comes days after Singapore Archbishop William Goh urged Catholics not to attend her show because of her "disrespectful" use of religious symbols and props during her gigs, and her "blasphemous" music. A male giraffe, which was brought to Nandankanan from Alipore Zoo in exchange of four tigers, died here today under mysterious conditions, forest department officials said. The male giraffe was brought on February 24 for mating with the lone female giraffe 'Khusi' here at Nandankanan. State Forest and Environment minister Bikram Keshari Arukha directed the PCCF (wild life) to probe the premature death of the animal. The five-year-old 'Joy', which took birth at the Alipore zoo, was brought here under the supervision of an eight-member expert team headed by Assistant Director of Nandankanan Dr Kamal Lochan Purohit. The four big cats comprising two females and a male white tiger, were transported to Alipore zoo for getting the male giraffe under the exchange programme. Meanwhile, experts at the Odisha University of Agriculture and Technology (OUAT) conducted post mortem of the dead giraffe. The post mortem report was awaited. Pakistan survived a top-order collapse before completing a seven-wicket win over United Arab Emirates in their second round robin league match of the Asia Cup T20 tournament, here today. An unbroken 114-run stand for the fourth wicket between Shoaib Malik (63 no) and Umar Akmal (50 no) sealed the issue for Shahid Afridi's men, who chased down the victory target of 130 in 18.4 overs. Opting to bat, UAE managed to score 129 for six, despite a top-order collapse which saw them tottering at 12 for three after just four overs. Shaiman Anwar was the top-scorer with 46 off 42 balls that was studded with five boundaries and two sixes. Skipper Amjad Javed also threw his bat around to contribute a valuable unbeaten 27 off 18 balls with three fours and two sixes. Malik proved his detractors wrong with a responsible innings as he found an able ally in Akmal. Pakistan suffered triple jolt early in their chase by rival captain Javed, who struck thrice reducing the former World T20 champions to 17 for three. Sharjeel Khan (4) was adjudged leg before while Khurram Manzoor nicked one to Swapnil Patil behind the stumps. Mohammed Hafeez (11) looked scratchy before offering a catch to short cover. Akmal and under-fire veteran Malik then took charge but they never dominated the bowling despite the final few overs during which they hit a flurry of fours and sixes. In all, Malik hit seven fours and three sixes in 49 balls while Akmal helped himself to couple of boundaries apart from three over boundaries in 46 balls. Malik was dropped on 41 in the deep off Mohammed Shahzad's bowling and that proved to be too costly for the inexperienced side. Malik hit couple of hefty blows in part-time spinner Rohan Mustafa's next over to effectively finish the match. Barring Mohammed Amir, who again did the star turn with Figures of 4-1-6-2, Pakistan bowling attack lacked the intensity shown during the India match. The likes of Mohamed Sami (1/28 in 4 overs), Mohammed Irfan (2/30 in 4 overs) and debutant left-arm spinner Mohammed Nawaz (0/26 in 3 overs) were inconsistent giving away too many boundary balls towards the back end of the innings. (REOPENS FGN 55) As many as half a dozen of sixes were hit by the UAE batsmen apart from 13 boundaries. However Pakistan made a good start with Sami getting left-hander Rohan Mustafa (1) early with a short ball. Muhammad Kaleem (1) was fooled by Amir, who came round the wicket and foxed him with a change of pace as the delivery came in to knock his stumps. The 7 feet tall Mohammed Irfan used his height to get Mohammed Shahzad (5) with a delivery that grew big on the right hander as he only managed to glove it to Sarfraz Ahmed behind stumps. At 12/3 it was Shaiman, who took it on himself to counter-attack. He had a brief 29 runs stand with Usman Mushtaq (9) before Afridi got rid of him but then a steady Mohammed Usman (21) joined him for a 31-run stand. Shaiman's innings was a treat as both his sixes came off Nawaz - a big heave over long-off and a slog sweep over the cow corner. Just when he was looking good for a half-century, Irfan got him to nick one behind the stumps. But skipper Javed and Mohammed Naveed hit some lusty blows to take the minnows to a near par-score on this track. A 37-year-old man tried to immolate himself near the Malwani police station in suburban Mumbai this afternoon, police said. Mukesh Sonawane, resident of Kharodi village, set himself on fire after pouring kerosene on his trousers before entering the police station premises. Policemen present on the spot immediately put out the flames and took him to a nearby hospital where he was being treated. Sonawane and his neighbour were having a dispute over repairs of Sonawane's hut, according to the police. Sonawane's mother had lodged a complaint against the neighbour on February 13, accusing him of abusing her family. Actress Elsa Ortiz has been cast to bring late Mexican screen legend Maria Felix back to life in a planned biopic. Director Fausto Alatorre, an old friend of Maria, is taking charge of the project, which reportedly has the backing of the late Latin icon's family, reported Contactmusic. Ortiz admits she is flattered to have landed the "great honour", adding, "It is a great opportunity that I will thoroughly enjoy." Production is expected to begin later this year, once the filmmaker has secured full financial backing for the film. The emerges seven years after Eva Longoria expressed an interest in turning the Dona Barbara star's life into a movie. The "Desperate Housewives" actress admitted she has always wanted to embrace her Latin roots and play Maria, who passed away in 2002 at the age of 88. "I'd love to adapt the story of Maria Felix," she told the New York Daily . "I think she's the icon of Mexican cinema, and I would love to bring her story to life. I'm very proud of being Mexican-American, so I celebrate it as much as possible." Ortiz is widely considered to be one of the great beauties of Latin American cinema, and one of its most successful actresses of the 1940s and '50s. Five Mexican states were put on alert after a truck carrying a container of potentially dangerous radioactive material was stolen, the interior ministry said. The National Coordination of Civil Protection issued the warning yesterday after a company in the central state of Queretaro reported that a pick-up truck carrying radioactive iridium-192 had been stolen. The ministry said the material "can be dangerous for people if not handled safely" and could cause "permanent or serious injury to a person who is handling or in contact with it for a short time". Such damage could occur after contact lasting anywhere from minutes to hours, it added. Officials said the radioactive material represented a significant health risk if taken outside its container, but was not dangerous if kept sealed. The material, which is used in industrial radiography, belonged to the company Industrial Maintenance Center located in the city of San Juan del Rio. In addition to Queretaro, the states of Hidalgo, Guanajuato, San Luis Potosi and Michoacan were put on alert. Iridium-192 can cause burns, radiation sickness and permanent injury if a person comes in contact with it, and can be fatal if exposure lasts hours or days. Authorities asked that anyone who comes across the radioactive material to notify officials immediately, not touch it and stay clear of it by a 30-meter (100-foot) perimeter. Theft of radioactive material is not uncommon in Mexico. In April of last year a container carrying iridium-192 was stolen and recovered a week later in southeastern Mexico, the fourth such theft since 2013. The thieves are generally unaware that they are stealing radioactive material and are more interested in other goods. The Home Ministry has been allocated over Rs 77,000 crore in 2016-17 budget, a steep hike of 24.56 per cent, majority of which have been earmarked for paramilitary forces like CRPF and BSF, responsible for internal security and border guarding duties. Presenting the general budget in Parliament, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley announced an outlay of Rs 77,383.12 crore to the Home Ministry of which Rs 67,408.12 crore is under non-plan and Rs 9,975 crore under plan heads. In the 2015-16 budget, Home Ministry was allocated Rs 62,124.52 crore. In the 2016-17 budget, a total of Rs 50,176.45 crore has been allocated to seven paramilitary forces. Among these forces, Central Reserve Police Force, deployed for internal security, action against Maoists and operations against militants, has been earmarked the highest at Rs 16,228.18 crore. Border security Force, which guards Indo-Pak and Indo-Bangladesh borders, will get Rs 14,652.90 crore while Central Industrial Security Force, responsible for security of country's airports, nuclear installation, key government buildings and private entities like Infosys, has been allocated Rs 6,067.13 crore. Indo-Tibetan Border Police, tasked with protecting the Sino-Indian border, has got an outlay of Rs 4,231.04 crore and Assam Rifles, deployed in Indo-Myanmar border and dealing with insurgents in the Northeast, will get Rs 4,363.88 crore. Sashastra Seema Bal, which guards the Indo-Nepal and Indo-Bhutan border, has been earmarked Rs 3,854.67 crore while National Security guards, the anti-terror commando force, gets an allocation of Rs 688.47 crore. Delhi Police, which reports to the Home Ministry, has been given Rs 5,657.84 crore in the budget. The budget allocated Rs 2,490 crore for erection of barbed wire fencing, construction of roads and induction of Hi-tech surveillance on Indo-Bangladesh and Indo-Pak borders. There have been several instances in recent past when terrorists from Pakistan breached the border and carried out terror attacks, including the January 2 strike on Pathankot airbase. The Intelligence Bureau, responsible for gathering internal intelligence, has been allocated Rs 1,410.45 crore while Special Protection Group, which guards Prime Minister Narendra Modi, former Prime Ministers Manmohan Singh, Atal Behari Vajpayee, Congress chief Sonia Gandhi, her children Rahul and Priyanka, will get Rs 359.55 crore. National Intelligence Grid, which aims to link databases as an input in combating terrorism and intends to create a facility to improve capability to counter internal security threats, has an outlay of Rs 45 crore. Rs 2,119.88 crore has been kept in the budget for "providing support for research activities" in the Home Ministry. A Rs 150 crore has been allocated under Nirbhaya fund for safety of women. This provision is for transfer of funds to the Nirbhaya Fund in the Public Account and expenditures out of Nirbhaya Fund by MHA. The expenditure will be on backend integration of distress signals from victims, with the help of mobile vans and control rooms (now renamed as National Emergency Response System and Central Victim Compensation Fund for women and child victims) and also for various other schemes for Safety of women by Delhi Police. The Union does not address the concerns of the farmers and the middle class, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal said Monday, accusing the Narendra Modi of "cheating" them while questioning the black money amnesty scheme. Kejriwal, who is campaigning for the upcoming Punjab Assembly polls, claimed that loans of industrialists have been "waived" in the and wondered why a similar relief has "not been" extended to the farmers.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 "The has nothing for farmers in distress who are are committing suicides. Farmers are reeling under huge debt. Loans of industrialists have been waived but not that of farmers. Nothing for middle class in this budget. Modi govt cheated middle class which votes for them," he said in a series of tweets. 'BJP vowed to bring back black money through enforcement, not through amnesty schemes' Kejriwal also sharply reacted to the Centre's four-month compliance window for domestic black money holders for them to come clean by paying tax and penalty of 45%, saying BJP had proposed "enforcement" measures instead. "BJP vowed to bring back black money through enforcement, not through amnesty schemes. This is what Chidambaram also did. What is the difference? "There's nothing for the treatment of farmers. Only opening cheap medicine stores will not help. There should be dispensaries in every village where treatment will be free," he tweeted. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today said the Budget is aimed at improving rural infrastructure and increasing rural income as the biggest challenge to the economy is agrarian distress. He announced an allocation of nearly Rs 36,000 crore for the farm sector while raising the agri-credit target to Rs 9 lakh crore for the next fiscal. Hindu community was facing a "conspiracy" and it should strengthen itself and "set an example", Union Minister Ram Shankar Katheria said here at a condolence meeting for a dalit VHP leader, who was shot dead on Thursday. Katheria, who is Lok Sabha member from Agra, and MP from Fatehpur Sikri Babu Lal were among the leaders of BJP, VHP and Bajrang Dal who addressed the meeting held yesterday following the killing of 50-year-old Arun Mahaur, VHP's city vice president. "This conspiracy that is being hatched against the Hindu community, we have to be be alert to recognise it and strengthen ourselves. We will have to fight it because if we do not do it now, today we have lost one Arun, tomorrow it could be another Arun...The killers should also go, we have to set such an example," Minister of State for HRD Katheria said. Addressing the gathering, Babu Lal said, "If the Muslims have something in their mind, then draw a line and you will see the strength of the Hindu community". After the district authorities refused permission for a condolence meeting in Mantola area at the residence of Mahaur, the BJP had shifted the venue to Jaipur House colony, Ramlila ground where Sadhvi Prachi, Katheria along with local MLAs of the party were present. Authorities have stepped up security in the city which has been gripped by tension following the murder Mauhur while he was returning from a temple on Thursday morning. Additional companies of police and Rapid Action Force teams have been deployed in Mantola and Nai ki Mandi areas, official sources said today. A close vigil is being kept on the activities of BJP leaders as well as members of other saffron outfits like Bajrang Dal, the sources said. Police today said one of the accused in the murder case has been arrested while another is absconding. They said no complaint has been received in connection with alleged inflammatory speeches made at the condolence meeting. "There is no case or complaint," police sources said. Leaders of the Hindu outfits have demanded firm action against suspects indulging in cow slaughter, and raising of compensation for the family of the deceased. The state government has announced Rs 15 lakh for the family, but BJP leaders were not satisfied and said that the Dadri lynching victim's kin were given Rs 45 lakh, a house and job. District authorities have now written to the state government to increase the relief. A Dutch woman, who had gone missing in Rishikesh last week, has been found there and is being brought to Delhi, External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj said. Yesterday, family of Sabine Harmes, 32, had requested Swaraj to help them locate her, four days after she went missing. "My officers have located the missing Dutch girl Sabine Harmes. She is presently in Swatantra Ashram, Rishikesh. Our Regional Passport Dahradun has met her. She appears to be mentally disturbed," Swaraj tweeted. The minister yesterday had asked the Uttarakhand government to trace the woman. "She received treatment at the Nirmal and Jolly Grant hospitals for injuries on her legs. We are informing her family/Embassy about this," said Swaraj. Sabine's sister Suzanne Lugano, in a tweet to Swaraj, had sought her intervention in the case. Responding to a tweet by Sabine today, the External Affairs Minister said Indian Embassy in Netherlands will contact her and give her a visa to visit India. Suzanne, who lives in Nijmegen in The Netherlands, said Sabrina had attended a gathering of a 'guru' named Mooji and, when she did not return to the hostel on Wednesday, her roommates contacted the police. Mobile phones and tablets will become dearer with the government proposing a hike in levies on components like printed circuit boards (PCBs) and peripherals like batteries and chargers. Focussed on incentivising domestic value addition to help Make in India, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today said suitable changes are proposed to be made in customs and excise duty rates on certain inputs, raw materials, intermediaries and components and certain other goods. This will "reduce costs and improve competitiveness of domestic industry in sectors" like IT hardware, capital goods, defence production and textiles among others, he said while presenting Budget 2016-17 speech. The Budget proposes to withdraw Basic Customs Duty (BCD) (10 per cent) and Countervailing duties (CVD) (12.5 per cent) exemptions on imports of chargers, adaptors, battery, wired headsets and speakers used in mobile phones. The total duty cost comes to be over 29 per cent, which will make the imports of these products expensive. "At first glance the Union Budget 2016 seemed to be in alignment with the various initiatives Modi's government has undertaken, but there are certain elements which does not seem positive," Karbonn Mobiles Chairman Sudhir Hasija said. What will hurt the mobile manufacturers is the increase of duty on some of the parts which have to be imported, he added. "We still import components such as batteries and speakers considering there is no manufacturing in India. With, 29 per cent increase in the excise duty it is going to be harder to contribute to 'Make in India'," he said. The Union Budget proposes a 2 per cent special additional duty (SAD) on populated printed circuit boards (PCBs) used for making mobile phones, laptops and personal computers. "With the levy, the price of domestically made phones will go up by one per cent. We would request government to roll back this duty," Indian Cellular Association President Pankaj Mohindroo said. He added that overall, the Budget is good for domestic manufacturing. Sudhin Mathur, Director (Smartphone Business) at Lenovo's Mobile Business Group said till a competitive supplier base is established in india, there may be a marginal increase in cost of the box due to higher cost of accessories. Hari Om Rai, Co-chairman FTTF (Fast Track Task Force) and Lava International CMD, said the industry is unhappy on the imposition of the SAD. "As much as half of production cost of a mobile phone consists of populated PCBs and this imposition of 2 per cent SAD will mean that the duty differential between complete mobile phones and its parts/components for manufacturing will be significantly diminished," he said. India has not yet developed the eco-system for the complexity involved in populating a mobile phone bare PCB, he added. Micromax co-founder Rajesh Agarwal said the proposal on reduction in excise duty will eventually promote manufacturing of these components domestically. India is an important market for handset makers as it is witnessing strong sales growth rates at a time when global sales are waning. According to research firm IDC, shipments in India grew 28.8 per cent in 2015 y-o-y to 103.6 million units compared to 10.1 per cent growth for the global market. Buoyed by the opportunity, several handset makers, including global players like Xiaomi and Lenovo have commenced assembling phones in India. However, given that major components are still sourced from countries like China and Taiwan, handsets are still assembled and not manufactured here. Over a decade after Maharashtra adopted the yardstick of Human Development Index (HDI) to quantify and measure development in districts, state Finance Minister Sudhir Mungantiwar has directed authorities to include factors like employment and vocational education to gauge improvement in the overall quality of life. The state adopted the HDI yardstick in 2001 to measure the development index in the state. Since then, districts like Thane, Pune and Mumbai (according to 2011 stats) have continued to show rise in their HDI and are now being joined by districts like Nashik in the relative category of "Very High" HDI. However, districts like Osmanabad and Latur which were ranked in "Medium HDI" category in 2001 have surprisingly slipped into the "Low HDI" category (as per 2011 stats). Comparing the 2001 HDI with 2011 HDI reveals that districts like Nandurbar, Gadchiroli, Jalna and Dhule continue to languish in the Relative Category of "Low". While districts like Osmanabad and Latur which were in 2001 categorised in the "Medium" category have now slipped to the "Low" category, Bhandara district continues to remain in the relative category of "Medium" HDI. Chairing a meeting of the Maharashtra Human Development Commissionerate (MHDC) last week, Mungantiwar directed the mission authorities to include employment and vocational education besides education, health and Gross Domestic Produce (GDP) as benchmarks for determining HDI. He said that while evaluating the implementation of any scheme, the mission should now take into account these two factors of employment and vocational education to measure the improvement in overall quality of life. "Avenues of employment and vocational education enable people to afford better standard of living, quality food, healthcare and education for children. This in turn has positive impact on other factors of human development," he said. The Minister directed the District Collectors to give inputs based on the requirements of their respective districts and also what changes they would like to see in government schemes. Besides, population living below the poverty line (BPL) along with education, health and GDP should also be considered at taluka level, Mungantiwar said. He added that avenues of employment should be created at the taluka level which will lead to increase in income, which in turn will lead to solving problems of food and health. Mungantiwar said that the mission should change its mode of functioning and take into account Skill Development and Employment and club some districts to implement integrated development projects. The Human Development programme covers 125 talukas in 23 districts of the state. "The government had allocated Rs 134.40 crore for 2015-16 to the Commissionerate which was spent," informed Mission Director General Bhaskar Munde. Hosts Bangladesh were today dealt a telling blow as their strike bowler Mustafizur Rahman was ruled out of the Asia Cup due to a Grade I side strain sustained during the home team's win against Sri Lanka. "Bangladesh pace bowler Mustafizur Rahman has suffered a side strain and will not play any further part in the Micromax Asia Cup T20," a BCB release stated. A Grade I side strain can also make him a doubtful starter for Bangladesh's World T20 qualifying round matches against the Netherlands and the Ireland in Dharamsala. Team physio Bayjedul Islam Khan: "Mustafiz complained of discomfort after Sunday's match against Sri Lanka. An MRI scan was done today and the report from the radiologist confirmed a Grade-1 side strain on the right. He is under conservative treatment and rest for next 48 hours. Following that the rehab will begin. We are expecting that he will make a quick recovery and resume bowling soon." Opening batsman Tamim Iqbal will replace Mustafiz in the Asia Cup squad. Tamim was not in the original squad as he took leave because of the birth of his first child. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg expressed concern over reports of violations of a three-day-old ceasefire in Syria today and urged all parties to respect the truce. "We have seen encouraging signs that the ceasefire is largely holding, but at the same time we have seen some reports about violations," Stoltenberg told a press conference in Kuwait City. "Of course, that is of concern because it is important that all sides should respect the agreement," which is the best way to renew efforts for a political solution to the devastating five-year conflict, he said. The ceasefire deal was brokered by Moscow and Washington and took effect at midnight on Friday. It entered its third day largely intact today despite accusations of violations from both sides. Stoltenberg said NATO was also concerned about Russia's military buildup in Syria, where it has carried out a five-month bombing campaign in support of President Bashar al-Assad. "We are concerned about the Russian military buildup we have seen in Syria," whether it is military or air force, he said. The NATO chief said Russian air strikes had "mainly targeted" non-jihadist rebels rather than the Islamic State group, which has been targeted by a US-led coalition. He said the Western alliance had no plans to send ground troops to Syria as part of the campaign against the jihadists. Indian Navy's all-women crew vessel "Mhadei" has reached here. The vessel set sail from Visakhapatnam for her home port, Goa, after participating in the International Fleet Review and reached here on the night of February 27. Lieutenant Commander Vartika Joshi, a Naval Architect, was appointed as the first woman Skipper of Mhadei on February 8 just prior to the voyage from Visakhapatnam. She is crewed by Lieutenants P Swathi, Pratibha Jamwal (Air Traffic Control specialists), Vijaya Devi and Sub Lieutenant Payal Gupta (both Education officers). "The sixth member of the crew, Lieutenant B Aishwarya is an Engineer and is expected to join the boat next month," according to a Navy release here. The women officers are training to form an all-women crew that would attempt to circumnavigate the globe next year. Mhadei visited Chennai port before coming to Kochi. It would depart after a few days halt here. This is the first all-women crew to man any ocean-going sailing boat of the Navy. All the crew members are volunteers and are driven by their passion for adventure and a love for sailing and the seas, it said. A new app that may help diagnose cancer in patients early by using information about symptoms, signs and images of what to look out for has been launched in the UK. The app developed by the Scottish Centre for Enabling Technologies, based at the University of the West of Scotland, can be continually updated when the user is in a wi-fi zone, giving them the latest information as quickly as possible. It can also be used offline. The app features a quick reference guide for health professionals, including information on symptoms, signs and images of what to look out for, 'BBC News' reported. "This app, which has been developed in partnership with health professionals and patients, will make it easier and quicker for doctors, pharmacists and senior nurses to access information on referral for those suspected of having cancer," said Scotland Health Secretary Shona Robison. "The earlier a cancer is diagnosed and treated, the better the survival outcomes," said Robison. "Improving the number of patients diagnosed at an early stage will reduce premature deaths from cancer and have a positive effect on overall life expectancy," she added. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today announced setting up of new ports at eastern and western coasts and said the thrust of the shipping sector would also be on waterways as well as port-led economic development through project Sagarmala. "We are planning to develop new greenfield ports both in the eastern and western coasts of the country. The work on the National Waterways is also being expedited. Rs 800 crore has been provided for these initiatives," Jaitley said while tabling the Budget in Parliament today. The Sagarmala project has already been rolled out, he said, adding that government has initiated a series of steps to modernise and expand the capacity of its 12 major ports. Under its ambitious Sagarmala project, the government is looking to mobilise at least Rs 10 lakh crore investment, including Rs 4 lakh crore in the infrastructure sector alone. The Finance Minister also announced that the Customs Act is being amended to provide for deferred payment of customs duties for certain class of importers and exporters and "in consultations with Ministry of Shipping, the facility of direct port delivery is being extended to more importers." Jaitley further said, "In 2014-15 Budget, I had announced the intent to implement Indian Customs Single Window Project. We have made significant progress in this and it would be implemented at major ports and airports starting from beginning of next financial year." In 2015, India's major ports have handled the highest ever quality of cargo. "We have also added the highest ever capacity in major ports. We have started a series of measures for modernising the ports and increasing their efficiency," Jaitley said. Shipping Minister Nitin Gadkari termed the Budget as a landmark Budget and said it will pave the way for unprecedented growth in the sector. "We will set up three new major ports - at Colachel in Tamil Nadu, Sagar in West Bengal and Dahanur in Maharashtra", Gadkari said. He said the bill to convert 111 rivers into national waterways was likely to get Parliament nod this week. Gadkari said while Rs 800 crore provision has been made towards waterways sector, another Rs 800 crore can be raised through issuance of tax-free bonds. "Provisions of Rs 1,600 crore for shipping and waterways will give a tremendous boost to the sector," he added. To encourage movement for goods and passengers via waterways, the Cabinet last year had approved the plans for enactment of a legislation for converting 111 river stretches across the country into national waterways. Only five of the river-stretches have been declared as 'national waterways' so far. India has 12 major ports -- Kandla, Mumbai, JNPT, Marmugao, New Mangalore, Cochin, Chennai, Ennore, V O Chidambarnar, Visakhapatnam, Paradip and Kolkata (including Haldia) which handle approximately 61 per cent of the country's total cargo traffic. (REOPENS DCM117) "We are reading the fine print, but prima facie, there is very little for the shipping and the ports sector in the Budget," Indian Private Ports and Terminals Association secretary general Capt Ashok Bhattacharjee told North Korea has presented a detained American student before media in Pyongyang. The student, Otto Warmbier, acknowledged and apologised in a conference attended by the media and some members of the diplomatic community today for stealing a political slogan from a staff-only section of the hotel where he had been staying. Pyongyang calls that an anti-state crime. He said he took it as a trophy for a church that offered to pay him for it. North Korea announced late last month that it had arrested the 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. It said that after entering the country as a tourist he conducted an anti-state crime with "the tacit connivance of the US government and under its manipulation." Former detainees often recant such admissions after their release. North Korea presented a detained American student before the media today in Pyongyang, where he tearfully apologized for attempting to steal a political banner -- at the behest, he said, of a member of a church back home who wanted it as a "trophy" -- from a staff-only section of the hotel where he had been staying. North Korea announced in late January it had arrested Otto Warmbier, a 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. It said that after entering the country as a tourist he committed an anti-state crime with "the tacit connivance of the US government and under its manipulation." No details of what kind of charges or punishment Warmbier faces were immediately released. According to Warmbier's statement today, he wanted the banner with a political slogan on it as a trophy for the church member, who was the mother of a friend. In previous cases, people who have been detained in North Korea and made a public confession often recant those statements after their release. He was arrested while visiting the country with Young Pioneer Tours, an agency specialising in travel to North Korea, which is strongly discouraged by the US State Department. He had been staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, which is located on an island in a river that runs through Pyongyang, the capital. It is common for sections of tourist hotels to be reserved for North Korean staff and off-limits to foreigners. Warmbier is a native of Ohio and Ohio Gov. John Kasich, while campaigning in New Hampshire as a Republican presidential candidate, called the arrest "inexcusable." Kasich has urged President Barack Obama to "make every effort to secure Mr Warmbier's immediate release and keep (his) family constantly apprised." Kasich said North Korea should either provide evidence of the alleged anti-state activities or release Warmbier. In his comments, Warmbier said he was offered a used car worth USD 10,000 by a member of the church. He said the church member told him the slogan would be hung on its wall as a trophy. He also said he was told that if he was detained and didn't return, USD 200,000 would be paid to his mother in the form of a charitable donation. Warmbier identified the church as the Friendship United Methodist Church, which is in his hometown, Wyoming, Ohio. Meshach Kanyion, pastor of the church, would not confirm whether he knows Warmbier or if he is a member of the church. "I don't have any comment at this time," he told The Associated Press. Oil prices diverged today as traders balanced US demand hopes against the stubborn supply glut that has plagued the market in recent years. Around 1200 GMT, the US benchmark West Texas Intermediate (WTI) for delivery in April declined 22 cents at USD 32.56 a barrel. In London, Brent North Sea crude for April advanced 23 cents to USD 35.33 a barrel compared with Friday's close. Crude futures had risen in earlier Asian trading today, boosted by hopes that strengthening growth in top global consumer the United States will soak up some of the chronic supply glut. Chief market strategist Michael McCarthy at CMC Markets in Sydney said last week's better-than-expected US growth and manufacturing data signalled stronger demand for oil. The oil market has, however, slumped by about 70 percent from a mid-2014 high over concerns of a lasting surplus of supplies, at a time when growth in top consumers like China is slowing. Oil rallied sharply last week on hopes that top producers will cut output, but McCarthy said traders have "heavily discounted" speculation of a deal between members of the OPEC cartel. "Amongst traders OPEC has zero credibility, I don't think that as an organisation it factors into thinking of the end users of the market," McCarthy said. "Traders just have no faith that OPEC has the capacity to do anything." Saudi Arabia, as well as Qatar and Russia, recently announced a preliminary deal to freeze output at January levels, should other major producers followed suit. But Saudi Arabia, OPEC's largest oil producer, has since ruled out a production cut and Iran has dismissed joining a freeze. National Conference today expressed disappointment over lack of any special funds and the "shocking omission" of an expected relief package for Jammu and Kashmir in the Union Budget, saying it proved that PDP was in an alliance with the BJP only "for its own partisan interests". "PDP leaders had promised there would be something concrete for J&K in the Union Budget. Leave alone the possibility of something special for the state, there is a complete lack of mention of the state and its pressing needs in the aftermath of the devastating floods of 2014," NC spokesperson Junaid Azim Mattu said in a statement here. Mattu said it was shocking that MPs from the PDP had asked questions about China and Britain, and not Jammu and Kashmir in the ongoing session of the Parliament. "This is what happens when your (PDP's) MPs apparently sell their question slots to lobbies in New Delhi and end up asking questions about Britain and China and not about J&K. Is this why PDP sent these individuals to Parliament?" he asked. "Rather than draw attention towards the revocation of AFSPA, the revival of the state's Tourism Industry and demand a financial package for adversely hit businessmen and traders, PDP MPs have made a mockery of their responsibilities in the Parliament," he added. Mattu said it was perhaps a reason that the Union Budget failed to offer any concrete hope to J&K, especially hoteliers, entrepreneurs and businessmen who lost everything in the floods. The NC spokesperson said the Union Budget was an opportunity for the PDP to ensure Kashmir got an economic impetus through special funds that could be utilized to restore business confidence and increase the state's output. Meanwhile, former Jammu and Kashmir Finance Minister Haseeb Drabu said, "It is a fiscally conservative budget,... no big fiscal surprises but lot of non-fiscal elements which make the budget important." The PDP leader said the budget "is growth oriented." The focus on rural areas and agriculture sector is "significant." Drabu, however, added that it was "not a terribly growth oriented-budget" as far as corporate sector is concerned. CPI(M) leader Mohammad Yousuf Tarigami said, "The budget reflects rosy figures and is devoid of any relief for the common man. It is a routine exercise of rhetoric,". The Kulgam MLA said that as far as Jammu and Kashmir is concerned, the union budget has "abysmally failed" to provide succour to the people of the state. A 68-year-old woman was killed and three others from her family were injured when a rope-way trolleytaking them to the base ofBamleshwari Devihill shrine in Rajnandgaon district crashed into a rock while landing today, police said. At least 21 people who were stuck midway in seven other cable cars following the mishap have been rescued, they said. "The incident occurred when the cable car, carrying pilgrims, was descending to the base of the Bamleshwari Devi temple hills," Dongargarh Sub-Divisional Police Officer Ajit Yadav told PTI. The temple lies on the hilltop at the height of 1600 feet and one can reach there on foot by climbing 1027 small steps. "(Also) there is a rope-way trolley which takes the devotees near the temple top in around 10 minutes. As per the preliminary investigation, the cable wire suddenly came off from the pulley when four trolleys were landing down to the ground from the hilltop. "The trolley which was in the front hurtled down and crashed into a rock injuring its four travellers, including two women," Yadav said. As a result, three other cable cars which were coming down and four trolleys which were ascending to the hilltop got stuck midway, he said. After getting information about the incident, Indo-Tibetan Border Police and local police rescued the 21 persons trapped in seven trolleys after the two-hour-long operation, he said. The injured were taken to a local hospital from where they were shifted to Rajnandgaon district hospital, the officer said. "An elderly woman, identified as Bindu Mishra who had suffered serious injuries in the crash, succumbed during treatment in Rajnandgaon. Her husband Brijbhusan Mishra (71) and relatives Hemlata Mishra (38) and Radhemohan Mishra (35) are kept under observation," Yadav said. A case has been registered in this connection and stern action will be taken against those found guilty in the probe, he said. Meanwhile, Dongargarh Nagar Palika chairman Tarun Hathel alleged that lack of maintenance of the rope-way resulted into the incident. The Opel Astra has been named "Car of the Year" by nearly 60 journalists ahead of the start of the Geneva auto show, a boon for the European operations of General Motors. The selection today of the hatchback comes as the Detroit automaker has been looking to turn the corner with its European operations, which have been losing money for years. Opel CEO Karl-Thomas Neumann praised "the toughest jury in the industry," and said the car's designers made a lighter, more spacious and elegant version with this 2015 edition, which has racked up 130,000 sales. Opel is known as Vauxhall in the UK. Seven European automotive publications were behind the award. Most of the seven finalists except the Jaguar XE and the BMW 7-Series sedan were basic transportation vehicles. The others were the Audi A4, the Mazda MX5, the Skoda Superb and the Volvo XC90 SUV. Jharkhand Assembly was today adjourned twice in the morning session as the Opposition created noisy scenes for the second day on the alleged irregularities in the 5th Jharkhand Public Service Commission. The leader of opposition, Hemant Soren, rejected Parliamentary Affairs Minister Saryu Roy's suggestion that the government was ready to debate over the Opposition's adjournment motion against the issue. Soren, the working president of the Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (JMM) and a former chief minister, demanded that the recently announced JPSC results be "rejected" and a CBI probe be ordered into the alleged irregularities. Saying the case is pending before the High Court, the minister expressed concern over the credibility of the statements emanating in the House by the Opposition, which might send a wrong message. The minister added that a debate under Rule 54 could enable the government place point-wise details as demanded by the opposition. Speaker Dinesh Oraon adjourned the House for about half-an-hour for the meeting. On resumption, Soren, however, said the opposition was not satisfied with the outcome of the meeting. The opposition JMM, Congress and JVM once again disrupted the proceedings, forcing the Speaker to adjourn the House for a second time till 12.50 pm. The Opposition had disrupted the House proceedings the entire day on February 26 on the issue. Senior Congress MLA Sukhdeo Bhagat had on Friday said that the opposition was demanding a probe at whatever level and till then the results must be "put on hold". However, the JMM reiterated that its demand was to scrap the results and a CBI probe be ordered into the alleged irregularities in conducting the 5th JPSC examination. The Speaker adjourned the House till tomorrow after the Opposition continued to stall the proceedings on the JPSC issue. (REOPENS MES5) The joint committee, headed by AssemblySpeaker K B Koliwad and Legislative Council Chairman D H Shankaramurthy was constituted to bring uniformity in the rules andprocedures followed in both the Houses and streamline it. On the commencement and conclusion of the sitting, the committee suggested that sittings of the House shall, unless theSpeaker otherwise directs, ordinarily commence from 10:30 hours to 14:00 hours (morning sitting) and 15:00 hours to 18:00 hours (afternoon sitting). Noting that reply was compulsory, it says replies toall the questions listed for oral and written answers shall be furnished at least by 15:00 hrs on the day prior to the date on which the question is listed for answer. Provided that if the House is adjourned sine die, for any reason, before the actual date of adjournment as per the provisional programme, the questions admitted for the period shall be deemed as tabled on the last day of the closure of the House, and answers to the same shall, unless otherwise permitted, be furnished to the assembly secretariat within 15 days from the closure of the session as per the bulletin for onward transmission to Members, it added. Defining certain House terms, the report said "quorum" means one tenth of members of the total number of members of the House, while "sitting" means the sitting of the members of the House for transacting business on any day from its commencement till the adjournment of the House for the day. "Zero Hour" means the period immediately after the question hour, laying of Secretary's report, papers to be laid on the table and committee's reports, if any and before the list of business of the day is entered upon. During this, any member who wishes to raise any matter of urgent public importance that has occurred between the sittings and which cannot be raised under any other provisions of the rules with the permission of the Speaker can do so. The Pakistan High Commission today said that a team of its diplomats was denied access to inmates in Jaipur prison and the matter has been taken up with the External Affairs Ministry. "The incident occurred on February 25 when the delegation came here to meet the Pakistani prisoners, which also includes Pakistani fishermen consisting minors and women," the High Commission said. It said the matter has been taken up with the Ministry of External Affairs asking them to look into it with a view to ensuring that such lapses do not recur in future. Pakistan has always given top priority to such humanitarian issues and facilitated the access of the Indian High Commission in Islamabad to Indian prisoners, it said. According to an official at the Pakistan High Commission in New Delhi, "the four-member team had permission from the Ministry of External Affairs to give consular access to Pakistani prisoners but they were denied access to the Pakistani prisoners." The Pakistani High Commission official said there are 25 Pakistani prisoners in Jaipur jail, including minors and women. Pakistan today postponed the census exercise as authorities failed to mobilise enough troops to provide security to the teams involved in the house-to-house survey. The 28th meeting of the Council of Common Interests (CCI) held under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif took the decision to postpone the sixth census. According to a statement, the meeting discussed in detail the issue of conducting census in Pakistan. Secretary Statistics Division Shahid Hussain Asad apprised the meeting about preparations made for conducting consensus in the country. It was informed that the country has been divided into 166,819 blocks for which staff of 210,239 is required. "The meeting was told that since the Armed Forces of Pakistan are engaged in the ongoing military operation Zerb-e-Azb, deployment of required Army personnel in March/April for conducting the census throughout the country on same day was not possible," the statement said. "The council tasked the concerned to consult the Armed Forces of Pakistan for availability of the required human resource and propose a new date for census," it added. The meeting was attended by Chief Ministers from four provinces and other senior officials. The CCI is a constitutional body and its meetings are held to discuss the key issues related to the country. The first census in Pakistan was conducted in 1951, the second in 1961 and the third in 1972. The fourth census was held in March 1981 and the fifth, which was due in 1991, was conducted in March 1998 with the help of the Army. A Pakistani team probing the Pathankot terror attack may visit India in the next few days, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Foreign Affairs Advisor Sartaj Aziz said today and expressed hope that the Foreign Secretary-level talks will be scheduled very soon after that. "It is unfortunate that the agreement on resuming the dialogue process was disrupted by the attack on Pathankot Airbase on January 2. Pakistan has taken some important steps in the aftermath of the Pathankot incident," Aziz said in his opening remarks to the US-Pak Strategic Dialogue. "Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif called the Indian Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) immediately after the attack and assured of Pakistan's support in the investigation. National Security Advisers are maintaining frequent contacts," he said. "Case has been registered and the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is likely to visit India in the next few days. We therefore hope that the Foreign Secretary level-talks will be scheduled very soon," Aziz said during the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue which he co-chaired with US Secretary of State John Kerry. As an important part of Sharif Government's policy of peaceful neighborhood, Islamabad has reached out to India, he noted. "We believe that the resolution of all outstanding issues - including the Kashmir dispute - is possible through resumption of full-scale and uninterrupted dialogue with India. We had also proposed a mechanism to address our respective concerns on terrorism," Aziz said. A six-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) was set up by Pakistan government for the initial probe into the January 2 attack based on the leads given by India. Three men arrested for their alleged role in the attack were sent to a six-day police remand by an anti-terrorism court in Gujranwala city of Punjab on Saturday. The FIR by the Counter-Terrorism Department of Punjab police has been lodged on the basis of information provided by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval that four attackers crossed from Pakistan into India and attacked the airbase. The attack led to the postponement of a scheduled meeting between Foreign Secretaries of Pakistan and India in January in Islamabad. Since then, no date has been fixed for the talks. The Pakistani team investigating the Pathankot terror attack will complete its probe this week, a top official said today, days after three suspects in the high-profile case were remanded to police custody. "The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) will complete probe into Pathankot incident this week," Prime Minister's Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi was quoted as saying by Radio Pakistan. Pakistan last week set up a five-member JIT to probe the terror attack on the Pathankot airbase, a week after it lodged an FIR over the assault without naming Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar who India has accused of having masterminded the strike. Earlier, a six-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) was set up by the federal government for the initial probe into the January 2 attack based on the leads given by India. Three men arrested for their alleged role in the attack were sent to a six-day police remand by an anti-terrorism court in Gujranwala city of Punjab on Saturday. The FIR by the Counter-Terrorism Department of Punjab police has been lodged on the basis of information provided by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval that four attackers crossed from Pakistan into India and attacked the airbase. The attack led to the postponement of a scheduled meeting between Foreign Secretaries of Pakistan and India in January in Islamabad. Since then, no date has been fixed for the talks. Meanwhile, Fatemi also said the dates for the upcoming SAARC Summit in Islamabad are being worked out in consultation with member states. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to attend the summit. Aimed at improving the quality of education and functioning of women self-help groups in Andhra Pradesh, the Performance Management and Delivery Unit (PEMANDU) of Malaysia today began a six-week long "lab sessions" for officials, NGOs and others. State Chief Secretary S P Tucker, who inaugurated the event, said the government is keen on changing the British system of education, which churns out "clerks". "The system also contributes less towards improving the state's human resources," a state government release quoted him as saying. "PEMANDU will help Andhra Pradesh in thinking, planning and understanding how to fill gaps in a systematic way," he added. It said that 130 participants from various departments, MSME manufacturing units, SHGs, stakeholders from the organised and unorganised sectors participated on the opening day. During the first session, discussions were held on how the participation of women entrepreneurs and SHGs can be promoted to have a larger share in the economy by selling their products directly to the buyers, thereby achieving inclusive growth, it said. The "lab sessions" would also discuss topics including performance management, project delivery and monitoring in the education and retail sectors. Ravindran Devagunam, Director, PEMANDU said he is excited to be associated with the Andhra Pradesh government and that he is looking forward to being a part of the "lab sessions that will catalyse transformation in the state's economy". Sanjay Gupta, CEO, AP State Development Planning Society expressed satisfaction on the stakeholders' interest to participate in the labs. He urged other NGOs, experts and stakeholders to be a part of the sessions, the release added. The PEMANDU comes under Malaysian Prime Minister's Department for cooperation, a state government release issued in December had stated. The two sides had signed an agreement for cooperation in areas of performance management and monitoring of public programmes, education and retail services. The NITI Aayog had also signed an MoU with PEMANDU, under which the latter would work with the Centre in rolling out impactful and meaningful public sector initiatives in the national and state level, the release had said. Unidentified persons hurled a petrol bomb at the car of a Hindu outfit leader at Mudalipalayam near Tirupur today. Gopinath, a lawyer and president of Hindu Munnetra Kazhakam, an Hindu outfit, was going from Tirupur to Vellakoil along with his friend in a car when the incident occurred, police said. As the car was stopped at Mudalipalayam and the driver was getting down to purchase a water bottle, two persons riding a motorcycle and wearing helmets, hurled a petrol bomb at the car, slightly damaging the vehicle. Though Gopinath and his friend tried to nab the duo, they managed to escape, police said. Delhi Police has issued notices to at least nine journalists in the city to join probe in connection with the February 15 violence at the Patiala House court complex. These journalists were present at the court on the day when JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar, arrested in connection with a case of sedition, was to be produced, when a group of men wearing lawyers' robes suddenly unleashed a brazen attack on journalists, students and teachers of JNU there. The notices were served under Section 160 of the CrPC asking the journalists to join investigation along with evidence on specific dates, a source said. The journalists had filed a joint complaint at the Tilak Marg Police station alleging that they were assualted by lawyers in the court premises on February 15. Later, police taking suo moto cognisance of the incident had lodged two separate FIRs in connection with the incident, leading to arrest of BJP MLA O P Sharma in one case and three lawyers -- identified as Vikram Singh Chauhan, Yashpal Singh and Om Sharma -- in connection with the second case. A Polish institute tasked with prosecuting communist-era crimes today searched a dictator's home as it looks into whether Solidarity freedom hero Lech Walesa was a paid communist secret agent. Prosecutors from the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) "are carrying out operations at the home of the widow of General Wojciech Jaruzelski" in Warsaw, spokeswoman Agnieszka Sopinska-Jaremczak said. Jaruzelski, who died in 2014, was Poland's last communist leader. He was known for trying to strangle the Solidarity opposition movement in 1981 with a brutal military crackdown. Earlier this month the IPN had searched the home of the widow of General Czeslaw Kiszczak, who had been Jaruzelski's right-hand man when the regime imposed martial law. It was following that raid that the IPN said it had found a secret police file containing a collaboration agreement signed with Walesa's alleged codename "Bolek". The Nobel Peace laureate, renowned for negotiating a bloodless end to communism in Poland in 1989, angrily denied allegations that he had been a paid secret agent from 1970 to 1976. Rumours have long swirled that the 72-year-old, who later served as president, covertly fed the communist regime information while leading the Soviet bloc's only independent trade union. A special vetting court ruled in 2000 that there was no basis to the suspicions. Walesa said secret police officers faked the payment receipts for agent Bolek, prompting the IPN last week to launch a probe into whether the files are forgeries. Right-wing politicians like Jaroslaw Kaczynski, the powerful leader of the governing Law and Justice (PiS) party, have long argued that Walesa was a regime spy and puppet. Centrists and liberals ridicule the idea, arguing that Kaczynski -- who was also a communist-era dissident -- is being vengeful after falling out with Walesa during his presidency. The bunker where President John F Kennedy would have been whisked if World War III erupted while he vacationed in Florida may face a bigger threat than Soviet missiles ever posed: a battle between its operators and the Port of Palm Beach. The once top-secret fallout shelter, code name "Hotel," and the retired Coast Guard station on Peanut Island are now a tourist attraction and the focal point of a long-running legal war between the port, which owns the island, and Palm Beach Maritime Museum, which leases the attraction. Anthony Miller, who operates the site for the museum, said the port's commission and Palm Beach County have blocked attempts to make the attraction financially stable. He said the commission thwarted a USD 500,000 grant last year. The county limited the number of weddings that can be performed at the picturesque Coast Guard boat house to three per year, down from 30, and banned the construction of a restaurant. The site's USD 200,000 annual maintenance budget is barely covered by admissions and donations, he said. The maritime museum's lease (USD 100 a year, plus 4 per cent of gross sales) ends next year. He says the port wants to tear down the facility, citing communications he says the museum has had with the commission. "They have been trying to kick us off for 20 years by starving us of money," Miller said. Greg Picken, the port commission's lawyer, said the port has no intention of razing the bunker or Coast Guard buildings, but hopes to find a better caretaker when the museum's lease expires. He said the museum's board is in disarray, citing lawsuits members have filed against each other. He said the USD 500,000 would have been "a drop in the bucket" compared to the millions in repairs he says the site needs and the museum has failed to make. To visit the bunker, about 200 tourists a week take a short boat ride to manmade Peanut Island, named for an aborted attempt to use it to ship peanut oil almost a century ago. In the 1930s, the Coast Guard station was built. Soon, its Coast Guardsmen would protect American cargo ships from German U-boats off Florida during World War II. Bollywood actress Priyanka Chopra's debut Oscar outing in a white elegant strapless gown has impressed Indian fashion designers and colleagues from the film industry. The former Miss World, 33, who rose to fame internationally with last year's ABC thriller "Quantico", opted for Lebanese designer Zuhair Murad's piece for presenting the best editing Oscar. She chose to keep her look minimal in a neat pony tail and diamond accessories. National-award winning designer Neeta Lulla tweeted, "Looking lovely and graceful @priyankachopra at the Oscars. Congratulations for your achievements. God bless." "Isn't she lovely tonight? @priyankachopra wearing #zuhairmurad couture #redcarpet #Oscars2016," Murad asked his fans on the micro-blogging site. Celebrity designer Manish Malhotra said, "#fabulous @priyankachopra in a @ZMURADofficial looking #stunning." Veteran actor-director Kamal Haasan wrote, "Priyanka looks confident & lovely. The top of my favourite actors list has Tom Hardy's name on it. Keep rocking Tom." Lauding her outing, Anupam Kher tweeted, "Congratulations @priyankachopra for being probably the first Indian to present an award at #Oscars. You are the Best. #kuchbhihosaktahai." "So underwhelmed by the #OscarsRedCarpet this year but our girl @priyankachopra is a stunner! @ZMURADofficial," actress Sophie Choudry tweeted. Chopra has been making mark on red carpet this awards season. At the People's Choice Awards in January (where she received the award for best actress in a new television series), the Indian actress sparkled in a sequined take on the colour block trend by Vera Wang. Later at the 22nd annual SAG Awards, the "Bajirao Mastani" star turned heads in a pink Monique Lhuillier strapless gown. Shares of public sector banks fell by up to 2 per cent today after the finance minister proposed a lower-than-expected Rs 25,000 crore allocation for recapitalisation of PSBs. Canara Bank declined by 1.77 per cent, Punjab National Bank 1.66 per cent, Allahabad Bank 1.59 per cent, Andhra Bank 1.49 per cent, Bank of India 1.07 per cent and Bank of Baroda 0.49 per cent on BSE. The government will unveil a road map for consolidation of public sector banks (PSBs) which are expected to get an infusion of Rs 25,000 crore next fiscal, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said today. "The allocation of Rs 25,000 crore for bank recapitalisation is slightly disappointing," said Krishna Kumar Karwa, Managing Director, Emkay Global Financial Services Ltd. "PSU banks' recapitalisation of Rs 25,000 crore is below estimates," said Vinod Nair, Head-Fundamental Research, Geojit BNP Paribas Financial Services Ltd. Certain psychological factors such as quick thinking and feeling healthy may be very strong predictors of how long we will live, a new study has found. Researchers from University of Geneva in Switzerland and University of Oxford in the UK examined 29 years' worth of data collected from 6,203 adults who ranged in age from 41 to 96 years old when they began the study. Aggregating data from 15 different tasks, researchers looked at participants' cognitive performance across five domains of ability - crystallised intelligence, fluid intelligence, verbal memory, visual memory, and processing speed. The tasks - all well-established measures of cognitive ability - were administered up to four times over a 12-year period, allowing researchers to assess participants' baseline performance and change in performance over time for each domain. To gauge participants' health, researchers used the Cornell Medical Index, a measure that includes detailed checklists of a total of 195 pathological symptoms related to physical and psychological disorders. Finally, the researchers looked at participants' subjective reports of various lifestyle factors, including perceived health, number of prescribed medicines, sleep patterns, hobbies, leisure activities, and social interactions. Using two types of statistical analysis, researchers were able to assess the relative importance of a total of 65 different variables in predicting participants' mortality risk. The results showed subjective health and mental processing speed to be two of the strongest predictors - that is, better perceived health and smaller decreases in processing speed over time were associated with reduced mortality risk. Being a woman was also associated with reduced mortality risk, while years of smoking tobacco was linked with an increased risk of early death. "Our study shows that two psychological variables, lower self-rated health and age-related decrements in processing speed, appear to be especially important indicators of elevated mortality risk in middle-age and older adults," said Stephen Aichele from the University of Geneva. "This information may facilitate diagnostic accuracy and timely interventions," said Aichele. The findings may provide useful insights to health professionals, who need better methods for identifying individuals at risk of early death, researchers said. The findings were published in the journal Psychological Science. Petty criminals who are black are more likely to be jailed in the US than their white counterparts and serve longer sentences for low severity crimes, according to new research that points to racial bias in court sentencing decisions. Researchers explored if, how and when race factors in criminal sentencing by analysing more than 17,000 decisions from South Carolina in the US. The study by researchers from University of Sheffield in the UK and University of Minnesota in the US highlights inequalities in incarceration rates and sentence lengths for minority offenders. The research tested the "liberation hypothesis", which concerns how much flexibility judges have when sentencing, depending on the relevant case facts. The theory stipulates that when the case facts are unambiguous and the evidence clearly favours one side - for example, for the most serious crimes and repeat criminal offenders - judges will have little choice but to impose severe punishment regardless of extra-legal factors like race. However, in more ambiguous contexts, judges are "liberated" from the constraints of extreme criminality. In these instances there is room for judges to exercise discretion, and the door is opened for extra-legal characteristics such as race to influence sentencing decisions. The researchers chose to study data from South Carolina, where there are no sentencing guidelines and decision-makers have greater discretion when sentencing offenders. Using a class of event count models, they found the "black penalty" varied significantly depending upon an offender's criminal history. Black people with lower levels of criminal history were more likely than white people to be jailed, with the likelihood of incarceration increasing by as much as 43 per cent for those with no past criminal history to ten per cent for those with moderate criminal history. However, when offenders had a substantial criminal record, this had a constraining effect that neutralised the impact of race. Black offenders of low severity crimes received slightly longer sentences than white offenders, but high severity black offenders received shorter average sentences than white offenders, researchers said. "Much of the recent media focus in the US has been on racial disparities in law enforcement, most notably with coverage of police shootings, excessive force, and unlawful deaths," said Todd Hartman from the University of Sheffield. "Of course, this is just part of the story, as contact with law enforcement is only the first stage of the criminal justice system," Hartman said. "It is particularly concerning that this pattern of disparity appears to be affecting African American offenders with limited criminal histories or for less severe crimes," he said. The study was published in the Journal of Quantitative Criminology. Donald Trump's refusal to denounce an implicit endorsement from former Ku Klux Klan white supremacist leader David Duke has dominated the narrative just before Republican voters across 11 states head to the polls on Super Tuesday. Trump's rivals are scrambling to stop the billionaire businessman from becoming an "unstoppable" force in the 2016 presidential contest. And even Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton, fresh from a strong win in South Carolina, has started turning her focus on him. Texas Senator Ted Cruz and Florida Senator Marco Rubio continued to criticise Trump's character and lack of policy specifics in a series of attacks Sunday while courting voters across the South, whose states dominate Tuesday's voting. Rubio and Cruz acknowledge that time is running out to prevent the former reality television host from becoming the Republican Party's presumptive nominee, as the race to collect delegates for the party's nominating convention this summer continues. Trump has won three of four early voting states, and Republicans are divided over the prospect of the brash billionaire becoming their nominee. "There is no doubt that if Donald steam rolls through Super Tuesday, wins everywhere with big margins, that he may well be unstoppable," Cruz said Sunday on CBS. Trump was asked yesterday on CNN whether he rejected support from the former KKK Grand Dragon and other white supremacists after Duke told his radio followers this week that a vote against Trump was equivalent to "treason to your heritage." "Well, just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke. OK?" Trump said. "I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists." Cruz soon responded on Twitter, telling Trump: "You're better than this. We should all agree, racism is wrong, KKK is abhorrent." Rubio went further. "We cannot be a party who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," Rubio told a Virginia rally. "Not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable. How are we going to grow the party if we nominate someone who doesn't repudiate the Ku Klux Klan?" Trump hasn't always claimed ignorance on Duke's history. In 2000, he wrote a New York Times op-ed explaining why he abandoned the possibility of running for president on the Reform Party ticket. He wrote of an "underside" and "fringe element" of the party, concluding, "I leave the Reform Party to David Duke, Pat Buchanan and Lenora Fulani. That is not company I wish to keep." Asked about the issue yesterday, Trump told NBC he had disavowed Duke and asked, "How many times do I have to continue to disavow people. The Rajasthan government today signed 55 MoUs worth Rs 586.29 crores with a number of companies to promote tourism industry and create over 5,000 new jobs in the state in near future. Principal Secretary Tourism Shailendra Agarwal and Director of Tourism department Anil Kumar Chaplot signed the MOUs with the companies based in state in presence of Rajasthan Minister of State for Tourism Krishnendra Kaur at a conference organised at Khasa Kothi here. Kaur said these MoUs were signed as a follow up to the Resurgent Rajasthan Partnership Summit organised by the state government in November last year. "The department has signed a total of 221 MoUs worth Rs 10,407.94 crore during and after the summit, which will create employment for 40,765 people in the state," she said. Twenty of them worth Rs 1,174 crore were signed under the tourism sector in presence of Chief Minister Vasundhara Raje, Kaur said. Tourism department will facilitate the projects to get the clearance or certification if required to the partners, the Minister said. Agarwal said the MoUs would be implemented in next two to three years and projects ranged from hotels, motels, resorts, museum and amusement parks. On completion of these projects, RTDC run accommodations would be able to meet the increasing influx of tourists, he said, adding 5,392 people would get jobs in the tourism sector. The proposal received for the projects covering 55 MoU are spread in all districts including Alwar, Bikaner, Udaipur, Jaipur, Bhilwara, Sirohi, Rajasamand, Kota, Sawai Madhopur, Jhunjhunu, Hanumangar, Pali, Jalore and Sriganganagar, the Principal Secretary said. Welcoming the Union budget tabled today in Parliament, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Raman Singh dubbed it as "common man's budget". "It is a common man's budget as all the priorities have been included to cater to the needs of the 'aam aadmi'. It is the budget of the farmers, poor and villagers," Singh said in a statement. It will give an impetus to socio-economic development of the country and will prove to be a historic budget in the days to come, he said. The CM congratulated Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for presenting a "pro-people" budget, keeping in mind the welfare of the masses. "Jaitley laid stress on infrastructure development apart from social sectors in the budget. Top priority was given to rural development, agriculture, school education, higher education, skills' development and medical and health sectors. The budget will help farmers, workers, Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, Backward Classes and minorities," Singh said. It is heartening to note that each gram panchayat will be allocated Rs 80 lakh of additional funds which will help in development of basic infrastructure of rural areas, he said. Besides, the budget had set a target of increasing organic farming on five-lakh acre, which is a positive sign to come, he added. Meanwhile, the main opposition Congress in the state criticised the budget saying that it has added to burden of the common man. "The Union budget is directionless. It will increase burden on people," state Congress chief Bhupesh Baghel said. He said the Narendra Modi government's second full budget has clarified that it has done nothing, but talk. Poor people have been totally ignored in the budget. No change in income tax slab has also disappointed the salaried and middle class, Baghel alleged. Bollywood actor Randeep Hooda was felicitatedby Melbourne based South Asian community members at a function here last night. On the occasion, the 39-year-old "Main Aur Charles" actor, also shared his memories of the time hespent asan international student in the country. The members of a non profitorganization South Asian Public Affairs Council(SAPAC) honoured the visitingactor with an achievement award for making his mark in the film industry. Receiving the award,Hooda said he got his first break in the Bollywood industrybecause of his Australian accent. The actor whomade his debut as an NRI from Australiain Mira Nair's film"Monsoon Wedding" in 2001, said he was very happy to be back in the country after 15 years. "Its a wonderful country. Its a country which has its biggest strength as multiculturalism. I think we are all part of it and its growing more and more," he said adding that his time here has been a big part of his growth as a person and as an actor. "I think I learned more about acting when I drove cabs in the night. ...You, infact, get very nice view into people's lives," he said Presenting the award to the actor,Parliamentary Secretary for tourism, major events and regional Victoria, Danielle Green, said "Indians were thefastest growing community in the state and were settling very well." A local councilor Oscar Yildiz also offered Hooda to become anambassador of 'Bully Zero Australia' which the actor accepted. At the event,Hooda alsoformally launched a non profit organisation 'Nobody Dies Hungry' founded by anAustralian Indian Aloke Kumar. A Sri Lankan Tamil refugee was today arrested here for allegedly trying to flee to the island nation. Police said Nallathambi (35) of Vavuniya in Sri Lanka, who had been lodged at Gummudipoondi Refugee camp, had managed to escape from there a few days ago and allegedly made arrangements for 80 Lankan refugees to flee to Australia in an illegal ferry. Mangalore police officials, who received a tip-off regarding his visit to Mangalore, tried to nab him, but he gave them the slip and reached Pamban Kundhukal, near here. However, he was arrested today when he tried to escape to Sri Lanka, from here in a boat. Police are interrogating him regarding the arrangements made for 80 refugees to flee to Australia. Two Delhi Police personnel lost their lives in separate road mishaps in Lutyens' Delhi, officials said today. Manoj Kumar, 50, an Assistant Sub-Inspector with Traffic Police, was run over by an unidentified vehicle near Ashoka Hotel in Chanakyapuri late last night, police said. The second fatal accident involved constable Arvind, who was mowed down by a cab operating for a taxi aggregator at around 8 PM yesterday near Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh's residence, they said. Alok Kumar Verma, who took over as the Commissioner of Delhi Police today, condoled the demise of the two policemen. ASI Manoj, a native of Bulandshahr, was posted with the Delhi Cantt circle of Traffic Police. He was returning to the Ashoka police lines when his motorcycle was hit by the unidentified vehicle. A PCR van that reached the spot after the accident rushed him to RML hospital, where doctors declared him brought dead. Police are scanning the CCTV footage of the area to identify the vehicle involved in the accident. A senior police officer said that constable Arvind was hit by the cab at a roundabout near Tughlaq road. Passersby caught hold of the cab driver, identified as Sandip, and handed him over to police. Arvind was taken to a nearby hospital where he died during treatment. Police arrested Sandip from the accident site and registered a case of rash and negligent driving against him. Nursing a toe injury, India opener Rohit Sharma today skipped the team's training session and is likely to miss tomorrow's Asia Cup T20 match against Sri Lanka, here. His opening partner Shikhar Dhawan did train, so did skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who had a knock during the two- and-a-half-hour net session at the BCB Academy in Sher-e-Bangla Stadium. Rohit, who took a blow on the left toe off a yorker by Mohammed Amir, did not accompany the team for practice as he stayed back in his hotel room. While he is lucky to have escaped fracture, it is highly unlikely that he will play tomorrow's game against Sri Lanka, which might increase the soreness of his left toe. With the World T20 starting in a week's time, the team management will not risk Rohit, who is one of the key players in the top order. Dhawan today hit the nets but did not have the usual sprightly strides that one normally associates with the Delhi left-hander. He took a few catches, did a bit of shadow batting and was the last one to come out to bat in fading light. For a change, Parthiv Patel got to bat early in the net session right after Raina, Kohli and Rahane. It is still not clear as to who will be Rahane's opening partner for tomorrow's game. It was also heartening to see Dhoni has a hit at the net session, which he had carefully avoided due to the back spasms. Despite injuries, the mood in the camp looked upbeat as Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Virat Kohli and Team Director Ravi Shastri were seen enjoying a hearty laugh after the nets were over. In fact yesterday, the Indian players were found spending a lovely evening at the Indian High Commissioner's residence in Dhaka. It was none other than Virat Kohli, who stole the show regaling the audience with the iconic romantic song 'jo wada kiya woh nibhaana padegaa'. While melody was not something that all those present were looking for, Virat's energy made everyone applaud the effort as there was no dearth of sincerity. Suresh Raina sang the hit song 'Tumse Milke' from the film 'Parinda' - his voice sounding more like Kumar Shanu than Suresh Wadkar, who recorded the original song. To give a boost to traditional and alternative medicines, Rs 1,326.20 crore have been allocated to the AYUSH Ministry in the Union budget. The total allocation, including plan and non-plan head, for Ministry of Ayurveda, Yoga and Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy (AYUSH) is Rs 1,326.20, an increase of Rs 201.2 crore than last year's figure of Rs 1,125 crore. From the total allocation, Rs 1,050 crore has been given under the plan head and Rs 276.20 crore under the non-plan head. To support the various AYUSH institutions across the country a total of Rs 266.70 crore has been given while Rs 447.10 crore are allocated for research and development in this field. To strengthen AYUSH Delivery System which includes provision for development of AYUSH IT Tools, application and networks, pharmacovigilance initiative for ASU drugs, Central Drug Controller for AYUSH and information, education and communication, a sum of Rs 111.45 crore has been allocated. Under the National Health Mission for AYUSH which includes provision for components of AYUSH services, AYUSH educational institutions, quality control of drugs and medicinal plants, a total of Rs 400 crore has been allocated. The government today announced allocation of Rs 100 crore each for celebrating birth centenary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay and 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh. "The Budget has allocated initial sums of Rs 100 crore each for celebrating the birth centenary of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay and the 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh," Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said while presenting General Budget 2016-17 in Lok Sabha. Pandit Deendayal Upadhyay, a leader of the Bharatiya Jana Sangh, was born in 1916. Guru Gobind Singh, the tenth guru of Sikhism, was born in 1666. Jaitley said India will also celebrate the 70th anniversary of Independence next year. "In 2017, the country will celebrate 70th anniversary of our Independence. We will chalk out milestones for nation's journey beyond the 70th anniversary of Independence," he said. The government also plans to celebrate the 475th birth anniversary of Maharana Pratap, who was born in May 1540. The government had also observed the 150th birth anniversary of Lala Lajpat Rai and released a commemorative coin of Rs 150 and a circulation coin of Rs 10 on the freedom fighter last month. Besides, the government would also observe the 200th birth anniversary of Tatya Tope. Earlier, Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma had said the government will celebrate the birth centenaries of personalities of national importance. Ahead of Super Tuesday, Republican presidential candidate and Florida senator Marco Rubio used Virginia as a launching pad to "expose" what he claimed as "the other side" of his main rival and party front runner Donald Trump. In a series of speeches and town halls, crisscrossing the State - where political pundits say he has the best chance of winning on Tuesday - Rubio, 44, was at his aggressive best to lambast Trump for the what he described as a sham Trump University. "They finished the course with nothing but a worthless piece of paper. He's doing the same thing to voters in America," Rubio said as he swung throughout the State including a well-attended rally in Virginia. In the last few years, the Indian American population has increased manifold in Virginia, especially those from the IT sector. The endorsement that Rubio has got from the two Indian American leaders from the Republican party, his campaign believes, would help him attract votes from. While former Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal was the first one to endorse him early this month, the South Carolina Governor Nikki Haley endorsed him ahead of the crucial State primary earlier this month. Referring to his humble immigration rots, Rubio alleged that Trump is not a self-made man, as being claimed by the New York billionaire. Trump inherited $100 million from his father, Rubio said. But in Huntsville Alabama, Trump disputed the figure claiming that he got $1 million, which he made it into $1 billion. "We have to rally now - not just to stop Donald Trump, but to save the conservative movement," Rubio said as he described Trump as a "con artist" who is not a "tough guy" or a conservative. "This election is a generational choice," Rubio said, adding that the elections would determine "what kind of party will the Republican Party be. Addressing several rallies across the State, Rubio also lashed out at the Democratic presidential front runner Hillary Clinton. "Hillary Clinton is not qualified to be president of the United States of America. She broke the law, she thinks she is above the law. Nobody is above the law," Rubio alleged even as he devoted most of his time on slamming Trump. Trump is not only leading in national polls, but also in 10 of the 11 Super Tuesday States except for Texas where he is giving a tough fight to the local Senator Ted Cruz. Rubio is fighting for a second spot with Cruz in the Republican presidential primary. In Virginia, Rubio is running nearly 14 points behind Trump as per RealClearPolitics.Com which tracks all the major national and State polls. However, as against Trump or Cruz, Rubio has bagged maximum number of endorsements from sitting Governors, Senators and Congressmen. "Rubio understands freedom in his bones in his body. He came to this country from Cuba," said former Virginia Senator George Allen in support of the Florida Senator. "I know that times are tough - believe me I do. But we are a few important decisions away from triggering the greatest era in American history," Rubio said. The Opposition in the Jharkhand Assembly today rejected the government's readiness to debate over its adjournment motion on the alleged irregularities in the 5th Jharkhand Public Service Commission and stalled the proceedings for the second successive day. Amidst ruckus, the House passed budget allocations for the Water Resources, Drinking Water and Sanitation departments through voice vote before the Speaker, Dinesh Oraon, adjourned the House till tomorrow, minutes after the lunch break. Earlier, as soon as the House convened in the morning, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM's) working president and former chief minister, Hemant Soren, demanded 'rejection' of the results of the 5th JPSC examination and demanded a CBI probe into it as the JMM, Congress and a couple of other Opposition members created a din. Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik's) Pradip Yadav too demanded for cancellation of the results, Congress MLA, Sukhdeo Bhagat, maintained his party's stand that the results be put on hold and a probe be ordered at any level. The Opposition rejected the offer made by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Saryu Roy that the government was ready to debate over the Motion under rule 54 of the Rules of Procedure and Conduct of Business of Jharkhand Assembly. Roy added that the debate would enable the government place point-wise demands of the opposition, and avoid any wrong message emanating in the House going out. He also reminded the members in the Opposition benches that the case was pending before the High Court. The Speaker reminded the Opposition members that they had been apprised of the matter in the all-party meeting held for two days during the ongoing session. Stating that the case was pending before a court, the Speaker said the House could not go beyond a limit. However, Soren alleged that the students had approached the court as the government did not intervene and if the government would take a decision then the students would withdraw their case. Soren, also the leader of the opposition, said the issue had been raised during the Winter Session of the House and that the government could initiate action even if it was in the court. Backing Soren, JVM's Legislature Party Leader Pradip Yadav demanded that the results be cancelled and a CBI probe ordered into the alleged irregularities in the JPSC examination. Indicating to the JMM, the Urban Development Minister, C P Singh, said "19 members can't hijack the House." Oraon adjourned the House for about half-an-hour to convene the meeting of Business Advisory Committee in the hope of ending the logjam. On resumption, Soren, however, said the Opposition was not satisfied with the outcome of the meeting and the Opposition members trooped into the Well, disrupting the proceedings, which forced the Speaker to adjourn the House for a second time till 12.50 pm even as the scene was no different on resumption and the House broke for the lunch break. After the break, the Speaker was forced to adjourn the House till tomorrow after the passing of Budget allocations for the departments. The opposition had disrupted the House proceedings the entire day on February 26 on the same issue. (REOPENS CES9) The Adjournment Motion was moved by Jharkhand Vikas Morcha (Prajatantrik) Legislature Party leader Pradip Yadav in connection with the JPSC issue, on which the government expressed desire to discuss the matter. The Supreme Court, hearing a bail plea of jailed Delhi University professor G N Saibaba who is facing trial for his alleged Maoist links, today asked a Maharashtra trial court to conduct day-to-day trial in the case and examine eight key prosecution witnesses in a month. The bench comprising justices J S Khehar and C Nagappan also said it may consider granting bail after the trial court examines key witnesses. Meanwhile, it asked all the accused including Saibaba to cooperate with the prosecution during the trial. It also asked the counsel for the state government to point out the factual position of the trial on April 4, the next date of hearing. "We have perused the counter affidavit and additional affidavit filed by the state of Maharashtra. We have also heard the counsel for the petitioner. It emerges out that out of total 34 witnesses, cited by the prosecution, some of the material witnesses have been examined and eight material witnesses are yet to be examined," the bench said. Hinting that it may consider granting bail at a later stage, the court asked the trial court at Gadchiroli in Maharashtra to conduct day-to-day trial from March 4 and conclude recording of statements of eight key witnesses by April 4. Earlier, the court had asked the Maharashtra government to look for an alternative arrangement to house the jailed professor. We want the state to make him comfortable, the bench had said, while also directing the state to provide sufficient medical facilities to him. Wheel chair-bound Saibaba is lodged in the Nagpur jail. Prior to this, the apex court, on another plea of author Arundhati Roy, had refused to stay a criminal contempt notice issued by the Bombay High Court against her for an article in a weekly magazine questioning the continued incarceration of Saibaba. The Bombay High Court had on December 23, 2015 issued the contempt notice against the author, for her views on Saibaba's arrest and rejection of his bail plea early last year. Gadchiroli Police had arrested Saibaba in 2014 for his alleged links with Maoists. He has been on bail since June last year. Roy had expressed her views on the arrest in an article published in a weekly magazine last year. Pulling the plug on illegal mobilisation of funds worth more than Rs 7,000 crore, markets regulator Sebi today ordered Pancard Clubs to refund the money raised from public within three months. Besides, the firm and its directors have been barred from the capital market for four years. Further, they have also been restrained from money from investors by launching any collective investment schemes (CIS). The regulator found that Pancard Clubs mobilised Rs 7,035 crore from 51,55,516 investors from 2002-03 to 2013-14 through its various holiday schemes. The latest order comes after Securities and Appellate Tribunal (SAT) in September 2014 had asked Sebi to pass a fresh order after examining all documents. The tribunal had also set aside Sebi's interim order that had barred Pancard Clubs from raising funds from public as well as launching any new scheme. In an order passed today, Sebi said, "The present case involves a company that has mobilized public funds from gullible investors through its unregistered CIS." The regulator directed Pancard Clubs and its directors -- Sudhir Shankar Morvekar, Shoba Ratnakar Barde, Usha Arun Tari, Manish Kalidas Gandhi, Chandrasen Ganpatrao Bhise and Ramachandran Ramakrishnan -- to wind up the existing CIS and refund the money collected by the firm under the schemes with returns which are due to its investors within three months. Thereafter within a period of 15 days, the firm will have to submit a winding up as well repayment report to Sebi. In addition, the company and its directors have been barred from selling any assets of the company, except for the purpose of making refunds to its investors. In case the firm fails to comply with the order, the entities will continue to be barred from the market, even after the completion of four years of restrictions imposed on them "till all the collective investment schemes are wound up and all the money mobilized through such schemes are refunded to its investors with returns which are due to them." Further, it would make a reference to state government/ local police and register a civil/criminal case against the company and would make a reference to Corporate Affairs Ministry to initiate the process of winding up of the firm. SAT, in September 2014, had asked Sebi to pass a fresh order after examining all documents. According to SAT, Pancard Clubs has been knocking on the doors of Sebi since 2001 by seeking its decision on the question as to whether the time sharing business carried on by the company is covered under CIS or not, although no formal order was issued in the year 2001. "It is now admitted by counsel for Sebi that since the very beginning Sebi was of the opinion that time sharing business is not covered under CIS." "In fact, in 2010, Sebi once again scrutinized the documents relating to the business carried on by the appellant and it is evident from the letter addressed by Sebi to a Member of Parliament (MP) on October 21, 2013 that even after scrutiny of documents furnished by appellant in 2010 Sebi was of the opinion that the time sharing business carried on by the appellant was not covered under CIS," SAT had said. The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), in July 2014, had asked the company and its directors --"not to collect any fresh money from investors under its existing scheme and "not to launch any new schemes or plans or float any new companies to raise fresh money. Centre's move in the Union budget to levy 14 per cent service tax on legal services today drew mixed reactions from law firms and senior advocates with one section saying it would help generate funds for the government while the other maintained it would raise litigation cost. Those welcoming the proposal announced by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, himself a noted senior lawyer, dubbed it as a "good decision" which will help government to execute its policies with increase in funds while those disapproving it contended this will "discourage" arbitration and force clients to shell out more money. "Clients will have to pay more money to lawyers. I can't say if it is a good move or bad. I can only say it will raise the cost of legal services," senior advocate Anil Divan said. Demanding an outright "abolition" of the move that senior advocates and law firms will no longer be exempted from the service tax of 14 per cent, advocate and President of Society of Indian Law Firms President, Lalit Bhasin said, "It is not a correct proposal." "This high rate of service would discourage in bringing arbitration to India. India cannot be made an arbitration hub as clients will go outside the country. Prima facie it should be abolished till the bill is passed," he said. However, senior advocates Shanti Bhushan and K K Venugopal were of the view that it was a good decision to levy 14 per cent service tax on senior advocates who charge higher fees from clients. "There is no harm in levying service tax on lawyers as government needs funds to execute its policies. Nothing wrong if legal services become a bit more expensive," Bhushan, who was also a Law Minister from 1977 to 1979 in the Morarji Desai Ministry, said. Expressing similar view, Venugopal said, "It is a good decision. Senior advocates should be made to pay as they already charge higher fee. I don't think it will affect the clients. A sheriff says a 14-year-old student pulled out a gun in an Ohio school cafeteria and opened fire, hitting two students. Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones says two other students were injured either as they tried to get away or from shrapnel. Jones says the suspect ran from the school, threw the gun down and was apprehended nearby. Jones is not giving details on the shooting's motive. Investigators say the students who were shot were 14 and 15 years old and were taken to the hospital. The school has said none of injuries is believed to be life-threatening. A British Sikh group today asked the police to refrain from the use of the term "Asian" when referring to criminals with South Asia origins, especially in the aftermath of Rotherham sex-trials that largely involve Pakistani Muslim men, who preyed on teenage girls. The Sikh Federation UK made the plea following the conviction of four Pakistani-origin men, belonging to a single family, for raping and sexually abusing as many as 15 teenage girls for over 16 years in Rotherham, northern England, last week. "If the four men that have been found guilty and carried out the abuse were Pakistani Muslims, this is how they should be described and not called Asian," Bhai Amrik Singh of the group told 'The Independent'. "One of the demands in the Sikh Manifesto that we published a year ago before the General Election was that the government should encourage public bodies and the media to abandon the use of the term 'Asian' when describing perpetrators for reasons of political correctness," he added. The ringleader, Arshid Hussain, was imprisoned for 35 years, while his brothers Basharat Hussain, 39, and Bannaras Hussain, 36, were handed 25 years and 19 years respectively. Their uncle Qurban Ali, 53, was jailed for 10 years. The case has been prominently discussed in the media as an example of "Asian grooming gangs", which the group believes divides communities. "We have learnt the perpetrators of these crimes regarded themselves as above the law as the authorities were supposedly worried about race relations and turned a blind eye despite repeated warnings," Singh said. The issue was also previously criticised in December 2013, when Sikh and Hindu groups started a petition. In a joint statement then, the Hindu Council UK, the Network of Sikh Organisations, Sikh Media Monitoring Group and the Sikh Awareness Society, said: "Communities who themselves fall victim of this emerging pattern of criminality, should not be besmirched by the vague terminology 'Asian'. In order to help find a solution to the problem, we need to be clear on the identity of those involved." The petition closed with 1,859 signatures calling for the word "Asian" not to be used in grooming and sex abuse cases. Superstar Shah Rukh Khan today revealed that before he joined the filmdom, he felt he looked like Bollywood actor Kumar Gaurav but at a later stage thought his looks matched that of Hollywood veteran Al Pacino's. In his upcoming film 'Fan', Khan will be seen playing two roles, one of a superstar Aryan Khanna and his fan Gaurav, who comes across as his lookalike. "Initially I used to feel I look like Kumar Gaurav (son of Rajendra Kumar)...He was the first star I wanted to meet. I was happy that I looked like someone good like him (Kumar Gaurav). Then after some point, I felt I looked like Al Pacino (an American actor)," Khan told reporters here at the trailer launch of 'Fan'. "Now at the age of 50, I feel I look like my father. I am hopeful a time will come when I would feel I look like myself," he said. 'Fan' is the story of Gaurav (Khan) a young man, 20 something, whose world revolves around superstar Aryan Khanna (Khan) or God as he refers to him. From the bylanes of Delhi, young Gaurav embarks on a journey to the city of dreams, Mumbai, in order to wish his God on his birthday. But when things don't go according to plan, Gaurav's love and passion the superstar turns in to a dangerous obsession. When asked about playing a psychotic obsessive role like 'Darr' again in 'Fan', SRK said, "No not really...The role (of Gaurav) is different from what one saw me doing in 'Darr', 'Baazigar'. These are anti-hero." "In this film, he is not a psychotic lover. It's the story of a young boy and his love for a superstar," he said. The 'Chak De India' star feels it is not right on his part to dictate or tell his fans how they should be. "A fan can be like Devdas, Rahul or Gaurav (referring to his popular roles). They have their own way of expressing ...At times it is so much. I just don't want them to write letter with blood. Today we have email system and social media," he said. "I am fan of films. I enjoy being in this space. I remember my first fans were two ladies...I was in Delhi and they looked at me and yelled Abhimanyu Rai. I am thankful to them for making me feel like that," he added. In real life, if Khan comes across a fan like Gaurav, he said he would sit and make him understand. SRK's admirers were seen in large numbers at the film's trailer launch. "Today is February 29 and this date comes once in four years. For the first time Yash Raj Films (producers) allowed fans in their studio. Adi (producer Aditya Chopra) did this as he loves me and he knows I love my fans a lot," the 'Dilwale' star said. Special arrangements were made for the trailer launch like an audio-visual sensor, fan-o-meter that detected the highest level of the sound (referring to people cheering at the venue), after which the trailer was launched. Khan is thankful to his fans for being with him. "Whenever I am happy...Sad I look upto you. I thank you all for making me the star that I am today," he said. "I feel a fan...Admirer should always take up good things. Like take up good things from Sachin Tendulkar, Amitabh Bachchan, Sania Mirza," he adds. Before the trailer launch, SRK recited popular dialogues from his films like 'Dilwale Dulhania Le Jayenge', 'Kuch Kuch Hota Hai', 'Devdas', 'Don' and 'Fan' and also from his upcoming flick 'Raees'. Directed by Maneesh Sharma and produced by Aditya Chopra, 'Fan' releases on April 15. Highest-grossing movie of 2015 "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" lost the key technical categories to "Mad Max: Fury Road" at the 88th Academy awards which also snubbed "Carol", Sylvestar Stallone, Kate Winslet and "The Martian" as they failed to bag a trophy despite nominations. "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" was up for five nominations including best visual effects, best sound mixing, best sound editing, best music (original score) and best film editing. The film, touted as one of the highest grossing films, earlier won BAFTA Award for best special visual effects but was defeated by "Ex Machina" at the Oscars. Ridley Scott's sci-fi film "The Martian" returned empty handed despite getting seven nominations in key categories including best picture and best actor for Matt Damon. Historical period drama "Brooklyn", based on Colm Toibin's novel of the same name, also failed to impress the voters as it did not win a single award. Similarly, Stallone fans, who were hoping that he would score his first Oscar for reprising his role as Rocky Balboa in the "Rocky" reboot "Creed", were disappointed after he lost the best supporting actor trophy to Mark Rylance for "Bridge of Spies". Actresses Cate Blanchett, Jennifer Lawrence, Saoirse Ronan also returned empty-handed. Director Todd Haynes' same sex drama "Carol" could not bag a single trophy despite six nominations. Canadian-British-Irish drama "Room", directed by Lenny Abrahamson and written by Emma Donoghue, managed only win for Brie Larson in best actress category despite six nominations. Similarly, mystery film "The Hateful Eight" and Steven Spielberg's "Bridges of Spies" won one award apiece. The widely criticised song "Writing's on the Wall" from James Bond film "Spectre" emerged as the surprise winner at the best original song category thereby causing a major upset for "Til It Happens to You" by Lady Gaga. Kerala Chief Secretary Jiji Thomson today recommended strict action against controversial IPS officer DGP Jacob Thomas for working in a private college without prior permission from the government and receiving remuneration. He told reporters here that the recommendation to dismiss or downgrade or block the increments of Thomas was made after a direction from the Centre. "The recommendation for action, submitted to Chief Minister Oommen Chandy and Home Minister Ramesh Chennithala, was made as Thomas' explanation to the showcause notice was found not satisfactory. "I recommended major penalty against Thomas. It can either be dismissal, blocking the increments or downgrading the service," Thomson, who retired today, said. He said though he was about to close the files in this regard after Thomas had repaid the remuneration he received from the college, "the recommendation for action was made following a direction from the Centre." The "action of Thomas was a clear case of breach of service rules set by the Centre for civil servants. All civil servants are working in a particular framework and they should not cross its Laxman rekha," Thomson said. Thomas, now Managing Director of Kerala State Police Housing and Construction Corporation, is believed to have a sore relationship with the UDF government since the time he openly criticised certain actions of Chandy while he wasthe Director of Fire and Rescue Services department. On the controversy over his new appointment as the Special Advisor to Chief Minister, Thomson said the post is to monitor some of the flagship development projects of the state. "We cannot compromise in the case of our ongoing mega projects including the road development. The duty of the Special Advisor is to closely monitor these projects and ensure their smooth implementation," he said. As the assembly elections are round the corner, the newly appointed Chief Secretary can pay his attention only on election-related affairs, he said. Opposition leader in the Kerala assembly V S Achutanandan had criticised the appointment of Thomson as Special Advisor to Chief Minister and even asked for cancelling the appointment. Iraqi officials say a suicide bombing at a funeral north of Baghdad has killed at least 14 people and wounded 45. Local security officials say a senior local leader of Asaib Ahl al-Haq, a powerful Shiite militia, was killed in the attack in Muqdadiyah, about 90 kilometres north of the capital. Security there is largely maintained by state-sanctioned Shiite militias known as the Popular Mobilization Forces. Hospital officials confirmed the toll. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to brief the press. A bombing at a Baghdad market yesterday by the Islamic State group killed 73 people. In January, an IS bombing at a cafe frequented by militiamen in Muqdadiyah triggered a wave of revenge attacks on Sunni mosques and civilians. A suicide car bombing killed four people today when it hit a gathering of loyalist forces in Yemen's Aden, the southern city serving as a government base, a security official said. Five others were wounded in the attack in the residential Sheikh Othman district, the official said. The suicide bomber rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into an area where security forces and pro-government militiamen had assembled, the official said. President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has declared Aden as Yemen's temporary capital as Sanaa remains in the hands of the Iran-backed Huthi rebels and their allies since they seized it in September 2014. Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group have stepped up attacks in Aden despite the efforts of the government and its backers in a Saudi-led coalition battling the Huthis and their allies to secure it. The rebels controlled Aden for months before government loyalists pushed them out in July. Because of the unrest gripping Aden, Hadi himself and many senior government officials spend most of their time in Riyadh, which has led an anti-rebel coalition since March 26 last year. Former Pakistani police commando Mumtaz Qadri, convicted in the killing of former Punjab governor Salman Taseer, was hanged to death early today at a Rawalpindi jail. Qadri, deputed on the security of Taseer, had killed the governor at a market close to the latter's house in 2011 in Islamabad for allegedly criticising the country's controversial blasphemy laws. The self-confessed killer was arrested and handed down death sentence the same year by an anti-terrorism court. He was hanged today at Adiala jail in Rawalpindi, the Dawn reported. His appeal against the sentence were successively rejected by the Islamabad High Court and the Supreme Court last year. Radical religious groups had been demanding that Qadri should be forgiven as he killed a "blasphemer". Taseer, who died aged 66, had termed the blasphemy regulations as "black laws" drawing the ire of extremists. The laws were introduced by Pakistan's military ruler Zia-ul-Haq in 1980s. Government will rationalise the pension sector by a uniform tax treatment and has proposed to raise the exemption limit from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh for annual contribution in a superannuation fund and also non-levy on taxes upon the death of an employee under NPS. Besides, 40 per cent of the pension wealth under NPS will be exempted from tax. It is proposed to provide a uniform tax treatment to the recognised provident fund, national pension system and superannuation fund, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said while presenting Union Budget 2016-17 in Lok Sabha today. "Exemption limit is proposed to be increased from Rs 1 lakh to Rs 1.5 lakh for annual contribution by an employer to a superannuation fund. "Any amount received by the nominee, on the death of the employee at the time of closure of account under National Pension System referred to in section 80CCD of the Income-tax Act is proposed to be exempt", Jaitley said. Among others, a monetary limit of Rs 1.5 lakh will be provided for annual contribution in a provident fund and exemption for one-time portability from provident fund or superannuation fund to National Pension System (NPS). The finance minister also proposed that 40 per cent of the pension wealth of an employee under NPS will be exempted from tax. "It is also proposed the exemption under the recognised provident fund and superannuation fund will be limited to 40 per cent of the accumulated amount arising out of contributions made in such funds on or after April 1, 2016. "However, this restriction shall not be applicable to an employee participating in a recognised provident fund and whose monthly salary does not exceed Rs 15,000 per month," he said. Besides, to help India moved towards greater pension coverage, the government has also done away with the levy of service tax on annuity under the NPS run by Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority of India (PFRDA). The startup community reacted positively to the tax incentives announced in the Budget, but feels the government has not done enough to address their near-term concerns. They added that investors would have benefitted if capital gains on investments in listed and unlisted companies were treated at par, even as they welcomed the three-year tax exemption for startups. This will reduce compliance burden and cash outflows, allowing new ventures to invest in product development and scaling up businesses, they said. "We were expecting more radical reforms in the Budget for startups. While we welcome the the three-year tax holiday, the fact that the Budget has retained MAT negates much of the advantages, as we have cash-flow problems in initial years," said Ravi Gururaj, chairman of Nascomm Product Council. He also said capital gains tax on investments in listed and unlisted companies have not been treated at par, which makes it unattractive to invest in startups that are already more risky. Travelkhana CEO and Co-Founder Pushpinder Singh said, "The Budget has been quiet on certain aspects (like GST) although some future actions have been promised. We would have to wait and watch out for those initiatives." Jewellery and fashion accessories e-tailer Voylla's founder Vishwas Shringi welcomed the proposal of one-day speedy registration of companies, but added that imposition of 1 per cent excise duty on branded jewellery is a dampener. Indian Angel Network co-founder Saurabh Srivastava said while exemption from capital gains tax was expected, it would have been beneficial if capital gains tax regime for unlisted companies was aligned with that for listed companies, at least for investments made by Sebi registered alternative investment funds. "This would end the discrimination against domestic venture capital funds as foreign funds anyway pay no capital gains tax by investing from Mauritius and other treaty friendly countries," he said. In order to encourage indigenous research and development, the Budget proposed to put in place a concessional taxation regime for income from patents. Industry think-tank iSpirt Foundation said it will encourage companies to file more patents in the country, but said taxation rules should have been simplified. "We are disappointed with no attention being given to easing taxation norms of software firms where there is significant friction, confusion on 'goods' versus 'service' tax on online downloads, TDS on sale of software products and competition from foreign firms selling B2C products without any tax in the country," Sharad Sharma of iSpirt said. Venture Catalysts co-founder Apoorv Ranjan Sharma lauded introduction of hubs to support SC/ST entrepreneurs as a step towards promoting the Startup India initiative. "However, it would have been great if the finance minister included some reforms in order to accelerate angel investment model as well," he said. Also, by enabling one-day registrations for startups, the government has focused on bringing in ease of doing business for the ventures, he added. Rajiv Vij, MD and CEO of Carzonrent, said," Though the 'Smart City' development is running behind schedule, the focus on infrastructure development is the first step in that direction. The finance minister's push to skill development as an element of 'Make In India' is a positive step. "We believe the Union Budget 2016-17 is well aligned with Prime Ministers Make in India and Startup India campaign. The budget focuses clearly on growth, development, job creation and creating a better environment for doing business in India. Besides a particular focus on startups by giving them exemption on their profits for the first three years is a welcome move. The relaxation in capital gain tax for investment in Funds of Funds and reducing the time frame to two years from three for availing long term capital gain tax benefit in the unlisted space will further boost the investment in startups," Manish Kumar, Co-founder & CEO GREX. (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.) Hundreds of refugees today tried to break through a border fence into Macedonia from Greece where more than 6,000 people are stranded, as Germany lashed out at EU states for abandoning Greece to refugee chaos. Macedonian police fired tear gas as a group of some 300 Iraqi and Syrian protesters forced their way through a Greek police cordon and raced towards a railway track where they tried to get through the barbed wire marking the frontier between the two countries, an AFP correspondent said. "Open the borders!" they shouted, prompting police to fire volleys of tear gas which prevented them from crossing. The angry protest took place several hours after Macedonia allowed some 300 Syrians and Iraqis to cross before resealing the frontier, keeping thousands of others out. With Austria and Balkan states capping the numbers of migrants entering their territory, there has been a swift buildup along the Greece-Macedonia border with Athens warning that the number of people "trapped" on its soil could reach as many as 70,000 by next month. As the bottleneck showed little sign of easing, German Chancellor Angel Merkel lashed out at a raft of restrictions imposed by Austria and the Balkan states, saying they risked plunging debt-ridden Greece into refugee chaos. "We can't just abandon this country," she said in an interview late yesterday, pointing the finger at Austria, whose introduction of restrictions on February 19 triggered a domino effect. "When one insists on his border, the other suffers. That's not my Europe." On the ground, thousands continued to mass at the Idomeni crossing in the hope it would be opened after a day of protests in which scores of people lay down on the railway tracks, among them women and children, some holding slogans reading "Open borders" and "We are humans, not animals". Macedonia had allowed in another group of 300 on Saturday night, Greek police said. The build-up at Idomeni camp, which can accomodate up to 1,500 people but is currently sheltering more than 6,000, began in earnest last week after Macedonia began refusing entry to Afghans and imposed stricter controls on Syrians and Iraqis. EU members Slovenia and Croatia quickly followed suit along with Serbia, with all four states imposing a daily limit of 580 migrants. The spate of border closures was sparked by Austria's announcement it would accept no more than 80 asylum claims per day and cap the numbers of those seeking to cross its territory, in a move Merkel said was responsible for the current buildup. "Because Austria decided on a limit of 80 per day, and not one more, we have reached today's situation," she said in a TV interview with public broadcaster ARD late yesterday, saying the move and the subsequent border restrictions in the Balkans had left Greece in the lurch. Terrorist groups like LeT and the Haqqani network are "stealing sovereignty" of Pakistan, US Secretary of State John Kerry warned today as he reminded the country of its commitment that it would take action against all terror outfits without discrimination. "Groups like the Haqqani network or Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), Jaish-e-Mohammad, all of these groups are literally stealing sovereignty of the nation. And they are stealing the future of the nation. It is important for us to stand up to them," Kerry said in his opening remarks at the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue. "We welcome Pakistan's commitment not to differentiate between terrorist groups...Groups like the Haqqani network, Lashkar-e-Taiba seek to undermine Pakistan's efforts to foster strong, positive relationship with its neighbours," Kerry said in is opening address to the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, which he co-chaired with Sartaj Aziz, the Pakistani Foreign Affairs Advisor. "We recognise that every country can do more to intensify, to destroy and defeat violent radical extremists. We commend Pakistan for its...Approach to implement the national action plan to eliminate the ability of the militant groups to recruit, to finance and to incite violence," said the top American diplomat, as he referred to the recent terrorist attack on the Bachha Khan University. Aziz, in his opening remarks, reiterated Pakistan's resolve to "finish and win" the fight against terrorism. "Our strategy to eliminate the terrorist networks and defeat their extremist ideology is all-encompassing," he said. Through military operation Zarb-e-Azb, Pakistan is determined to deny space to any terrorist groups to plan and launch violent activities from the Pakistani soil, he said. After almost year and a half since its launch, Zarb-e-Azb is probably the most successful story in the history of counter-terrorism operations, he claimed. Pakistan is taking all necessary measures to launch intelligence-based operations and choke the funding sources of terrorist organisations. So far, more than one billion rupees worth of accounts have been frozen by the State Bank of Pakistan belonging to the terrorist and extremist organisations, he said. Aziz said multiple actions are underway to defeat the extremist agenda or propaganda of the terrorist organisations through a counter-narrative strategy. Police said today they will have to tighten security on an island in eastern Thailand after four French tourists were brutally assaulted, including two women who were raped. The attack raises fresh concern about tourist safety in Thailand, which hosted a record 29 million visitors last year. Police had the five Cambodian suspects in the attack on Koh Kut reenact the crime, a standard procedure in Thai justice. Irate residents tried to attack the men but police pushed them away. Police say they will press charges of rape and conspiracy to assault against the five, whom they claim have confessed their involvement. "We don't have a lot of criminal cases in Koh Kut, not even robbery," Koh Kut deputy police chief Lt Col. Suraporn Thepsen said in an interview by phone. "The perpetrators are not local people and they just anchored their boat to avoid strong winds. We will have to tighten security in Koh Kut." A director of the hospital where the victims were taken after the Saturday night attack said their condition has improved, with the most badly injured one moved out of the intensive care unit yesterday. The women, ages 57 and 28, are mother and daughter. The two men, one from the same family, are 30 and 29 years old. The hospital official, who insisted on anonymity, said one of the three admitted patents had a broken nose and scratches, another a broken arm and swollen face and the most seriously injured person had cuts on the head and bleeding inside the skull. Trat province police chief Maj Gen Nopparat Rintapon said the five suspects had jumped off their anchored fishing boat and swam to Koh Kut after they had been drinking. Two of them met the French tourists and began talking to them, when the other three came running from the brush where they had been hiding and attacked them with knives and sticks, slashing one of the men badly while the other was able to escape and run to a nearby hotel for help. Nopparat said about 50 police and other officials and local residents cordoned off the area, and at around 4 or 5 am yesterday managed to capture three of the suspects. The other two were arrested yesterday afternoon at a border checkpoint when they tried to cross into Cambodia. Tourist safety in Thailand has become a major issue since the murders of a British man and woman whose bodies were found on the southern Thai resort island of Koh Tao in September 2014. The woman had also been raped. A court sentenced two Myanmar migrants to death in December in a case battered by concerns that the convicted men may have been scapegoats, and that police did not conduct a competent investigation. Three people died and five are missing after water flooded a mine in a mountainous gold rush town in the southern Philippines, police said today. Rescuers lowered tubes to pump water out of the mine in the impoverished town of Monkayo during the search for the missing, said provincial police commander Senior Superintendent Albert Ferro. It was not immediately clear how the tunnel became flooded early yesterday but there was heavy rain in the area at the time, Ferro told AFP. Twelve miners were initially trapped. Two bodies were retrieved while five others were rescued and five are still missing, he said. A rescuer drowned yesterday while trying to save those trapped, he said, bring the death toll to three. Deadly landslides are common in Monkayo in the west of the main southern island of Mindanao. But these have not deterred poor residents, some of them children, from working in the poorly-regulated mines. A local court today sentenced a man to three years rigorous imprisonment for beating his wife to death three years ago for more dowry. The prosecution case was Durai, a mini-bus driver, and Devi had a love marriage and three children. Durai used to beat Devi asking her to bring more money from her house. He beat her up on September 25, 2013 and left home. Neighbours admitted Devi to the hospital where she died and her mother lodged a complaint with police. Post-mortem revealed that the death was due to beating, following which Durai was arrested and the case was going on at the Mahila Court. Judge M Sarvamangala sentenced Durai to undergo three years RI and also pay a fine of Rs 5,000. Republican presidential front runner today posted a quote on Instagram attributing it to Mahatma Gandhi, but the US media said there is no evidence that the Indian leader had ever used these words. "First they ignore you. Then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win - Mahatma Gandhi," Trump wrote on social networking site Instagram as part of his effort to rally supporters. The Instagram post included a picture of hordes of supporters rallying at a Trump campaign stop in Alabama. Soon, the anti-Trump lobby was up in flames on the social media. The Hill, a top US political website, said: "There's no record that Gandhi ever used the phrase, which has been widely attributed to him." The quotation appears to be similar to words used in a 1918 trade union address by socialist leader Nicholas Klein, it said. Christian Science Monitor has put this among the top 10 political misquotes. There was no immediate response from the Trump's campaign on the issue. "Gandhi did not say this," one Scott T Smith wrote on twitter. Trump sought to quote Gandhi a day after he was criticised for re-tweeting Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini early Sunday morning. "He got tired of quoting Mussolini and he's saving the Hitler quotes until he's really desperate," tweeted Brad Fraser. Several popular websites have attributed this quote -- First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win - to Mahatma Gandhi. According to Wikiquotes, this is the quote which is often misattributed to Mahatma Gandhi. The UK today staged a tower block collapse onto a mock Underground station as part of Europe's largest simulated training exercise involving hundreds of emergency services staff to test its contingency planning. "Exercise Unified Response," coordinated by the London Fire Brigade, simulated a tower block collapsing into Waterloo station to prepare specialist emergency crews for a largescale operation with mass casualties. The four-day exercise which started today is designed to test the contingency planning of more than 70 organisations including local councils, utility companies and specialist search and rescue teams alongside disaster victim identification teams from Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, France, Italy and Spain. Chief Constable Debbie Simpson, National Police Chiefs' Council lead for Disaster Victim Identification in the UK, said: "When disaster strikes families need to be confident that the authorities are doing everything they can to identify their loved ones in a dignified and respectful way, whilst supporting any criminal investigation. "It's not often we get to test working practices on such a scale and it's really positive to see so many of our European colleagues involved." A total of 2,000 volunteers and actors will act as the casualties over four days and four separate venues in London as well as a disused power station are being used for the exercise. The drill, staged mainly at Littlebrook Power Station, near Dartford in southeast England, will cost 770,000 pounds, funded by the European Union. A mock-up Tube station has been created and seven carriages upturned in the rubble. Britain will face a "decade of uncertainty" if it exits from the European Union (EU), a UK government analysis warned today, citing the impact of "Brexit" on some 2 million Britons living abroad. "A vote to leave the EU would be the start, not the end, of a process. It could lead to up to a decade or more of uncertainty," the report by British civil servants and government officials said. The process of agreeing on the terms of withdrawal if the country was to vote in favour of an exit from the 28-member bloc in the June 23 referendum would hit financial markets, the pound and 2 million British citizens based outside the country, The Guardian reported, citing the analysis. The 10 years include the time it would take for Britain to exit the EU, to set up a new trade and related agreements as well as negotiate fresh trade deals with the US and other countries elsewhere. The document says they would only be completed at the end of a three-stage process that will be triggered in June if Britain votes to leave the EU in the planned referendum. "This government analysis shows that leaving the EU would lead to a decade of damaging uncertainty. The risks to our economy are clear and would leave the jobs and prosperity of the British people dangerously exposed," UK Cabinet Office minister Matthew Hancock said. The report details a number of issues that would have to be resolved in any "Brexit" negotiations, including access for UK citizens to the European health insurance card, cross- border security arrangements, the rights of UK fishermen to fish in non-UK waters, including in the North Sea, and access to the agency that monitors the safety of medicines. The government argues that British trade would also be plunged into uncertainty as it would become necessary to renegotiate individual deals with more than 50 countries that have an arrangement with the EU. The Cabinet is split over the issue with 17 full members in favour of staying in the EU and five wanting to leave. British Prime Minister David Cameron argues that being part of the EU is good for the British economy but his opponents are of the view that membership tot he bloc is costly, creates regulatory red tape and allows unlimited immigration. Cameron yesterday warned that gaps in the case for a "Brexit" made it the "gamble of the century". Out campaigners have accused the government of launching "Project Fear" and claim the riskier scenario for Britain is staying inside the EU. (Reopens FGN43) Chris Grayling, the leader of the Commons, who is one of five Cabinet ministers campaigning to leave the EU, said: "People will not be impressed with this relentless campaign of fear. Claims that it will take twice as long to sort out a free trade deal with the EU as it did to win world war two are clearly ludicrous. "There's a free trade zone from Iceland to the Russian border and Britain will still be part of it after we Vote Leave. The in campaign claims we have no real choice other than giving away more power and money to the EU every year. "It isn't true. The real uncertainty is voting to stay in an EU, which is already struggling with the euro crisis, the migration crisis, and a youth unemployment crisis. It is safer to take back control and spend our money on our priorities." The government's official policy is that Britain should remain in the EU - and civil servants are duty-bound to support government policies. UK is turning to India in an attempt to fill thousands of vacancies for doctors and nurses in its state-funded National Health Service, it emerged today, but "unwise regulations" and changing visa regime have been making the British medical system less attractive for Indian doctors. Statistics obtained by the BBC as part of a freedom of information (FOI) request indicate severe NHS staff shortages with a majority of NHS trusts across Britain forced to turn overseas to countries like India and the Philippines. However, visa changes over the years and some proposed changes expected to kick-in soon have been making the British medical system less attractive for Indian doctors. "Indian doctorsshould be treated equally as local doctors and not used simply as a pair of hands to service the NHS," said Ramesh Mehta, president of the British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (BAPIO), a representative body of nearly 50,000 Indian-origin doctors in the country. The group had recently taken up the issue of the UK's plans to impose a new Resident Labour Market Test (RLMT) to give UK and European medics priority in the UK job market. "It will be very unfortunate as the NHS is already suffering from huge shortage of doctors and unwise regulations will only create further problems," Mehta noted. According to the latest figures obtained by the BBC for its 'Inside Out' show to be telecast this evening, between 2013 and 2015 nursing vacancies had increased by 50 per cent and open positions for doctors had risen by 60 per cent. In contrast, the number of new Indian doctors registering with the General Medical Council (GMC) in the UK dropped from 3,640 in 2004 to just 534 last year. The Royal College of Nursing and the British Medical Association blamed poor workforce planning for the problems. A Department of Health statement said: "Staffing is a priority - that's why there are already over 29,600 extra clinical staff, including more than 10,600 additional doctors and more than 10,600 additional nurses on our wards since May 2010. There are more than 50,000 nurses currently in training. "However, we know that much more needs to be done to make sure we continue to have the right number of staff in training and on our wards so patients receive high-quality care 24 hours a day, seven days a week. "That's why we are changing student nursing, midwifery and allied health professionals funding to create up to 10,000 more training places by the end of this Parliament." The NHS has historically turned to the Indian sub-continent to meet staff shortages as well to increase the headcount ofdoctors and nurses and claimed that "foreign health workers make a valuable contribution to the NHS". But a changing visa regime and a perception of an increasingly unwelcome medical system over the years has seen a considerable drop in the number of Indian doctors working in the UK, from around 10,265in 2009 to 6,880in 2015. A delegation of ULFA leaders, led by its 'chairman' Arabinda Rajkhowa, today met Union Home Secretary Rajiv Mehrishi and reviewed the progress of their ongoing talks. The ULFA leaders discussed with Mehrishi their charter of demands, including recognition of six communities in Assam -- Moran, Muttock, Tai Ahom, Koch Rajbongshi, Sootea and Tea Tribes -- as Scheduled Tribes (ST). It was decided that the formal tripartite meeting of ULFA leaders with the Home Secretary and representatives of government of Assam will be held in the middle of March, a Home Ministry spokesperson said. The delegation include ULFA 'general secretary' Anup Chetia, who was deported from Bangladesh last year after 17 years of incarceration. The Rajkhowa-led ULFA faction had begun unconditional talks with the central government in 2011, despite strong opposition from the hardline wing led by Paresh Baruah, who is believed to be in Myanmar. The United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) was formed in 1979 with the demand for a 'sovereign' Assam. Since then, the group has been involved in subversive activities that led to the Centre banning it in 1990. The Rajkhowa faction joined peace talks with the government on September 3, 2011 after an agreement for Suspension of Operations was signed among the ULFA, central and state governments. The United Nations prepared to deliver aid to thousands of besieged civilians in Syria today as a fragile ceasefire entered its third day largely intact despite accusations of violations. UN humanitarian coordinator Yacoub El Hillo said the world body hoped to take advantage of the first major truce in five years of conflict to distribute supplies to an extra 154,000 people living in besieged areas over the next five days. A successful truce would also create a more favourable backdrop for peace talks that collapsed in acrimony in early February as a Russia-backed regime offensive in northern Syria caused tens of thousands to flee. UN envoy Staffan de Mistura aims to relaunch the talks on March 7 if the ceasefire lasts and more aid is delivered. The main opposition grouping yesterday described the ceasefire as "positive" but lodged a formal complaint with the United Nations and foreign governments about breaches. "We have violations here and there, but in general it is a lot better than before and people are comfortable," said Salem al-Meslet, spokesman for the Saudi-backed High Negotiations Committee. Meslet said the opposition would like to see the truce "last forever" and that it was the "responsibility of the United States to stop any violations". An HNC letter to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon accused the Syrian regime and its allies of committing "24 violations with artillery shelling and five ground operations... In 26 areas held by the moderate opposition". It said the breaches had killed 29 people and wounded dozens. The HNC has said it did not receive any maps of areas included in the ceasefire or documents explaining the monitoring mechanism. Syria's Al-Watan newspaper, which is close to the government, said yesterday that those maps were still being "kept secret". The ceasefire does not apply to territory held by the Islamic State group and Al-Qaeda affiliate Al-Nusra Front. The jihadists of IS last week cut the government's sole supply route to territory it holds in and around second city Aleppo. After several days of deadly clashes, the army succeeded in reopening it today, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said. At least 26 pro-government fighters and 14 IS jihadists were killed in the fighting around the town of Khanasser, the Britain-based monitoring group said yesterday. Defense Secretary Ash Carter says US cyberattacks to disrupt the Islamic State's communications and overload their networks could force the militant group to use older technologies that are easier for the US to intercept. Carter and Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, are providing more details on how the US is using computer-based attacks as part of the military operations against the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. US officials told The Associated Press last week that the military had launched a far more aggressive cyber campaign against the group. The aid includes efforts by US Cyber Command to prevent the group from using the Internet and social media to communicate and distribute propaganda aimed at attracting and inspiring recruits. An American health care company has been accused of laying off 180 of its IT employees in an attempt to replace them with low-wage H-1B workers, including Indians. "I am deeply concerned about reports that 'Abbott Labs' is laying off 180 Information Technology (IT) employees and replacing them with temporary foreign workers who, after they are trained, will then do these jobs outside the United States," Senator Dick Durbin said. He said Abbott Lab has given 60-days' notice to 180 US employees, and their last day of employment will be April 22. He alleged that these would be replaced by foreign workers on H-1B visas, the contract for which has been handed over to Wipro Ltd of India. "You have awarded Wipro Ltd, a large Indian outsourcing firm, with a contract to take over the jobs of these American workers," the Senator said. "I implore you to reconsider this plan and retain these US workers, who have dedicated years of loyal service to your company," Durbin said in a letter to Miles D White, chairman and CEO of Abbott Laboratories. A copy of the letter dated February 29 was released to the media. "To add insult to injury, the Abbott Labs IT staff who will be laid off will first be forced to train their replacements," he said. "I will continue to push for legislation to reform the H-1B and L-1 visa programs, but the gaps in current law are no excuse for your company to treat your employees so unfairly," Durbin said. Durbin said since 2007, he has repeatedly introduced bipartisan legislation to end the exploitation of the H-1B and L-1 visa programs to displace qualified American workers and offshore American jobs. In recent days, a number of US firms, including Disney World, have been accused of abusing H-1B visa. The US embassy in Iraq has released evacuation recommendations it said could help save up to 1.5 million lives at risk from a catastrophic failure of the Mosul Dam. Concern has grown in recent months over a possible collapse of Iraq's largest dam, which would unleash a wave that would devastate second city Mosul and flood much of the capital Baghdad. The dam in northern Iraq was built on an unstable foundation that continuously erodes, and a lapse in required maintenance after the Islamic State jihadist group briefly seized it in 2014 weakened the already flawed structure. "We have no specific information that indicates when a breach might occur," the US embassy said in a statement posted on its website late yesterday. "But out of an abundance of caution, we would like to underscore that prompt evacuation offers the most effective tool to save lives of the hundreds of thousands of Iraqis living in the most dangerous part of the flood path in the event of a breach." The embassy's overview of a breach scenario said 500,000 to 1.47 million Iraqis living in areas most exposed to the flood wave along the Tigris River would probably not survive if they were not evacuated. People in Mosul and Tikrit would have to move five or six kilometres away from the riverbank to reach safety, it said. Residents living farther downstream in Samarra, where the flood wave could overwhelm a smaller dam and the water would spread out, would in some cases have to flee as far as 16 kilometres. The contingency plan said large parts of Baghdad would also be flooded, including the international airport. It pointed out that many areas most affected by the flood wave are either controlled by IS or contested, making a state-directed evacuation unlikely. Visa-on-arrival facility will be rolled out to Japanese nationals beginning tomorrow, in a move that is expected to boost inflow of tourists and business visitors. The facility being given to Japanese will be an upgradation of e-Tourist Visa currently offered to citizens of 150 countries. While e-Tourist Visa requires to submit an online visa application followed by its approval before arrival in India, Japanese national would not be required to go through the process. Japanese will be given visa on arrival in India in any of the six designated airports -- Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru and Hyderabad, a Home Ministry official said. The visa-on-arrival for Japanese will be issued in business, tourist, medical and conference categories. It will have a validity of 30 days. According to an estimate, around 1.8 lakh Indian visas are issued to Japanese nationals every year, of which 80 per cent are tourists. On an average, 600 Japanese arrive in Delhi daily. Though visa-on-arrival facility was earlier offered to citizens of 12 countries -- Cambodia, Finland, Indonesia, Japan, Laos, Luxembourg, Myanmar, New Zealand, Philippines, Singapore, Vietnam and Republic of Korea -- it was discontinued in November 2014 after the launch of e-Tourist Visa scheme. As of now, the visa-on-arrival facility will be given only to Japanese nationals, it may extended to more countries like Republic of Korea in later stages, the official said. During the visit of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to India in December 2015, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had announced that the visa-on-arrival facility would be given to Japanese nationals from March this year. Keen to quickly resolve retrospective tax cases, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today made a one-time offer to UK's Vodafone Group plc and Cairn Energy plc to pay principal amount and get waiver on interest and penalty. The proposal, however, did not get enthusiastic response with companies saying there is no tax liability on them as they had not done anything wrong. "In order to give an opportunity to the past cases which are ongoing under the retrospective amendment, I propose a one-time scheme of Dispute Resolution for them," he said while presenting the Budget for 2016-17 in Parliament. "They can settle the case by paying only the tax arrears, in which case liability of the interest and penalty shall be waived," he said, adding the companies would have to withdraw all pending litigation in courts or tribunals or arbitration proceedings. While Jaitley did not mention of companies involved, Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das subsequently said the comments were directed toward Vodafone and Cairn. Cairn Energy is facing a tax demand of Rs 10,247 crore on a 2006 business reorganisation it carried out in its India unit before getting it listed. The company says it has paid all taxes due and there was no unpaid liability. It invoked India-UK BIPA to take the government to arbitration over the issue. Vodafone, on the other hand, is facing tax liability over its USD 11 billion acquisition of a 67 per cent stake in the mobile-phone business owned by Hutchison Whampoa in 2007. While the UK telecom group says it does not owe any tax as the transaction was conducted offshore, Income Tax Department is seeking taxes on the deal because it involved assets in the country. Arbitration has been initiated on this issue as well. "While international arbitration proceedings have commenced to seek resolution of the tax dispute, Cairn notes the efforts of the Government of India to resolve the retrospective tax issue and will study the text of the Budget speech," a Cairn spokesperson said. Vodafone said, "We will of course study the details of what the Finance Minister has proposed today, while continuing to seek resolution of this matter through international arbitration." "Vodafone has always maintained that there was no tax to pay at the time it completed its acquisition of Hutchison business in 2007.... Vodafone was the acquirer in this transaction. The company made no capital gains whatsoever," a company spokesperson said. When asked, if government hopes to get a settlement when companies disputing the principal liability in first place, Jaitley said: "They have two options-- either to litigate or settle". Jaitley said there are very few cases that remain under litigation following the retrospective amendment and government has shown keenness to clean that aspect. "We have taken one more step to rationalise this. Since the assessee says I was taken aback by this amendment, I propose to them to pay the principal tax demand," he said. However, sources close to the British firms said the very basis of the arbitration initiated was that they dispute existence of any tax liability. If the tax liability itself has been disputed, where is the question of paying up the principal, they said. The Minister, further said, the tax department is moving towards a lower tax regime with non-litigious approach and reiterated that the government will provide a stable and predictable taxation regime. "We will not resort to such (retrospective) amendments in future". "I had also hoped then that the cases pending in various courts and other legal fora relating to certain retrospective amendments undertaken to the Income Tax Act, 1961, through the Finance Act 2012, will soon reach their logical conclusion. I would like to reiterate that we are committed to provide a stable and predictable taxation regime," he said. The government had in 2014 Budget announced constitution of a high-level committee, which would oversee any fresh case where the Assessing Officer proposes to assess or reassess the income in respect of indirect transfers by applying the retrospective amendment. "In order to allay any fears of tax adventurism, this committee will now be chaired by the Revenue secretary and consist of Chairman CBDT and an expert from outside. This committee will effectively oversee the implementation of the assurances," Jaitley added. He said there are about 3 lakh tax cases pending with the first Appellate Authority with disputed amount being Rs 5.5 lakh crore. "Litigation is a scourge for a tax friendly regime and creates an environment of distrust in addition to increasing the compliance cost of the tax payers and administrative cost for the government," Jaitley said. The office working hours in all offices under the Assam Government and state Secretariat from March 1 tomorrow to September 30 next on all working days will be from 10 AM to 5 PM without any break. This was as per a Government of Assam General Administration Department notification dated February 26, said a government release today. During the winter season from October till February, the office working hours in all offices under the Assam Government and state Secretariat were from 10 AM to 4.15 PM without break. Around 40 perrsons belonging to Welfare Party of India (WPI), were today arrested for attempting to stage a demonstration near city railway station, seeking immediate relesae of JNU student leader, Kanayiah Kumar. Led by WPI Tamil Nadu General Secretary E M S Ibrahim, the activists, including 10 women, raised slogans, "save JNU, restore democracy," blocking the road in front of the railway station, police said. When they tried to picket the road, they were arrested. A Delhi Police commando was severely injured after being stabbed by a youth in north Delhi's Khari Bowli market, police said today. The incident took place yesterday evening when commando Dinesh saw the accused assaulting a child and intervened to rescue him. The accused, a drug addict and often seen in the market area, allegedly pulled out a knife and stabbed Dinesh in his neck and head, a police official said. People rushed to the policeman's rescue and thrashed the youth too. The duo were admitted to hospital where their condition is reported to be out of danger, police said, adding that a case under relevant IPC sections has been registered at Lahori Gate police station. By Libby George LONDON (Reuters) - West African crude oil flows east are expected to stay strong in March as Chinese term buying remains elevated and several additional cargoes were booked for India, according to vessel tracking and a survey of traders. Sixty-two cargoes have been booked so far to load West African crude for buyers in Asia, including 33 for China. The total is two cargoes above February, but lower on a barrel per day (bpd) basis due to the shorter month. Exports to China are locked in at a higher level since Angola's Sonangol inked a deal with Sinochem that included as many as six cargoes per month on a term basis. The deal began in February, increasing the amount of West African crude sailing east under contract. Indian buying rebounded slightly from the 13-month low it reached on a bpd basis in February. Traders said the startup of the 300,000-bpd Paradip refinery, which started processing oil early in February, encouraged more bookings to India. A more favourable spread between Brent and Dubai crudes also helped make West African oil attractive to eastern spot buyers; India's Reliance booked at least two cargoes for March loading. COUNTRY MARCH BPD '000S FEBRUARY BPD '000S CARGOES CARGOES CHINA 33 1,011 34 1,114 INDIA 17 521 14 459 INDONESIA 3 92 3 98 TAIWAN 4 123 4 131 JAPAN 0 0 0 0 S. KOREA 2 61 2 66 OTHERS 3 92 3 98 TOTAL 62 1,900 60 1,966 (Reporting by Libby George; Editing by Dale Hudson) NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India said on Monday it would raise the import duty on aluminium but cut the export tax on low grade iron ore, a move that would benefit Vedanta Ltd the most as it is a big producer of both commodities. Shares of the company, controlled by billionaire Anil Agarwal, rose as much as 3 percent after a budget document said the import duty on aluminium will be raised to 7.5 percent from 5 percent while the export duty on low-quality iron ore fines would be scrapped. (http://bit.ly/1WRYifB) The current duty on iron ore fines, mostly mined in the western state of Goa, is 10 percent. The government will also scrap the 30 percent export duty on low-quality iron ore lumps. "The iron ore duty cuts will help miners liquidate stocks at a time when international prices are low," Mines Secretary Balvinder Kumar, who proposed the revisions, told . The aluminium duty will boost local manufacturing by stemming the flow of cheap imports from countries like China, he said. India unveiled a largely pro-poor budget on Monday, announcing new rural aid schemes and skimping on a bank bailout, in a strategy shift that seeks to boost Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling party in coming state elections. (Reporting by Krishna N. Das; Editing by Anand Basu) Indian Finance Minister Arun Jaitley unveiled a for the poor on Monday, announcing new rural aid and health programmes in a strategy shift that could boost his ruling party in coming state elections. . Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 Experts give their views on the Union presented by Arun Jaitley. Macro Atsi Sheth, Analyst, Moody's Investors Service "What we've heard is largely in line with the current rating and the current outlook. There was nothing too surprising in the . This is fairly in line with what we had expected." "They have stuck to the fiscal deficit target. We always said fiscal consolidation would continue but slowly and that's indeed what the finance minister's budget is saying." "We do think fiscal policy is the weakest aspect of India's credit profile relative to other "Baa3" rated sovereigns because India has larger fiscal deficits and debt but the government are moving to correct it slowly." "We announced a change in outlook in April 2015. An outlook change suggests that we see chances of an upward shift in the rating over 12 to 18 months. We are still within the time frame we provided in April 2015." Radhika Rao, Economist, DBS "It is encouraging to see that fiscal discipline has been given priority at today's budget, though we await the fine-print. Budgetary assumptions, especially nominal GDP growth will be key. Implementation of the pay commission proposals is also unclear in the speech, so more details are also sought here. Focus on rural/ social sector spending and roads/ highways are along expected lines and positive. But less-than-expected support for banks' recapitalisation has disappointed. Services tax was left unchanged and long-term capital gains tax fears were left misplaced." Aditi Nayar, Senior Economist, ICRA "Sticking to 3.5% of the fiscal deficit target reinforces the credibility of Government of India's medium term fiscal targeting. The expenditure priority outline is also within our expectations, including the focus on rural, farmer and infrastructure. Monetisation through divestment of (central public sector enterprises') individual assets would augment funds for investments, and improving the target of beneficiaries for various subsidies through greater use of Aadhar is expected to result in fiscal savings over the medium term. And we welcome the move to do away with the plan, non-plan classification from FY18 onwards." Amitabh Dubey, Director, India Research at Trusted Sources "We will have to see how they managed to hold on to the deficit target, which is a positive, while raising capital spending and rural spending." "At first sight, it's a good budget, a fire-fighting budget. Rural demand is weak, private investment is dead in the water and of course we have a banking crisis." "They've announced some ease of doing business measures that are positive. But in other ways, it's a classic tax-and-spend budget." Subbarao Amarthaluru, CFO, RPG Group "The need of the hour is to accelerate the and promote consumption, but this budget doesn't have anything substantial on these. It has a lot of dampeners, and no positive sentiment. I don't see anything good in this budget, except that the road sector has got some good allocation. "The amnesty scheme on black money is not good enough, and would not encourage people to come forward. It could have been designed better." Ashtosh Raina, Head-FX, HDFC Bank "Really excellent budget. The adherence to fiscal discipline, with emphasis on growth and development, increasing infrastructure spending... are key elements of this year's budget." Siddhartha Sanyal, India Economist, Barclays "Sticking to the fiscal deficit target for the moment as compared to expectations of missing the target is a big positive. The support to the rural and tax benefits to lower segment of income people will help in supporting consumption growth. Adhering to the 3.5% fiscal deficit target will be seen as a clear positive by RBI. We expect RBI to cut rates by further 50 basis points by mid-June." Murthy Nagarajan, Head-Fixed Income Quantum Asset Management "The government has stuck to its fiscal deficit target of 3.5% of GDP. The debt market has taken it positively as there was some fear of the government not adhering to its fiscal deficit target as the government was keen to re-capital the banks and provide another round of capital spending to boost growth. The total gross borrowing is targeted at 6 trillion rupees, this is lower than market expectation of 6.5 trillion rupees. We expect RBI to cut repo rates by 25 basis points as RBI has stated it will look at the fiscal deficit numbers for cutting rates." A Prasanna, Economist, ICICI Securities Primary Dealership "The budget has stuck to the fiscal deficit target which is a big positive. The government has broadened its priorities to social sector from investment and infrastructure as the rural has been suffering since the last two years. The tax projections are realistic but the divestment target looks ambitious as the government has typically struggled to achieve this. The bigger issue is whether the government will be able to pull off banking reforms which will help in boosting growth. Overall the message being set to investors is of macroeconomic stability that will help in boosting growth." Banks R K Gupta, Executive Director, Bank of Maharashtra "He has given a statement that they will be providing all sort of additional support wherever we require, that's a great news. Of course we were expecting he will quote some number but I think this is a better statement." "Secondly, the other sectors in the economy like agriculture, rural economy or SME sector - adequate attention and provision has been made. If those sectors grow definitely banking will also benefit." Milind Kothari, Managing Partner and Head- Direct tax, BDO India "The allocation for bank capitalisation of 25,000 crore rupees (250 billion rupees) is only a patch on the 1,80,000 crores that the Economic Survey has identified as the need of this vital sector. The banking sector has a major role to play in spurring private investment which is lacking and without which the all-round economic revival is not a possibility." Ravi Gopalakrishnan, Head-Equities at Canara Robeco Mutual Fund "Apart from the 25,000 crore rupees (for bank recapitalisation), they also mentioned as and when there is a requirement, they will come in. So, that number need not be taken as sacrosanct." Satish Mishra, Political Analyst at Observer Research Foundation "Modi has been suffering from being labelled pro-corporate and pro-rich, he is now trying to correct that image through this budget." "It is important that he attempts to make those changes to stay politically relevant because he is being hammered by the opposition on these points. You saw that in the recent election defeats in Bihar and Delhi." "This is the beginning of a repositioning to a more populist government. In the budget speech there was a heavy stress on helping farmers and the poor." "But it is a big risk because, if major reforms are not coming, then the economy could suffer. Big-bang reforms are nowhere on the scene right now." Infrastructure Isaac George, CFO, GVK Group "It was a lacklustre budget for the infrastructure sector, except that roads got a fairly decent allocation. But there wasn't much else on infrastructure." "Irrigation projects also got quite a boost ... because he is adding another 28 million hectares of land that can be irrigated." "I believe roads and agriculture got the best deal." Agriculture Yoginder K Alagh, Farm Expert and Former Member of Planning Commission "These steps will help our millions of farmers recover from the rough patch they have been going through but the government will have to raise its allocation for the crop insurance scheme, as the gap between farmers' cost on farming and their loss, if any, is huge. "Although I welcome higher allocation for irrigation, we need to see its implementation. The government has been raising its irrigation spending every year, but we've failed to bring any extra area under irrigation facility. How does higher allocation help then?" Automobiles R C Bhargava, Chairman, Maruti Suzuki "The vehicle manufacturers are being directed to get to Euro 6 by 2020 and vehicles contribute so little to pollution. Main pollutant in Delhi for example is PM 2.5, which is dust. Cars only contribute 2% to that according to IIT Kanpur study. So why only cars are being targeted for pollution, especially when they are being pushed to incur the higher cost for Euro 6 is something which is difficult to understand and accept as being fair and reasonable." Anand Mahindra, Chairman Mahindra Group "In summary, despite our disappointment on the tax on cars, I see no reason for the mayhem in the market." "The call for a shift to investment in general infrastructure such as highways has also been answered. And fiscal targets have been maintained." Real Estate Rajeev Talwar, CO-CEO, DLF "He's given a relief to affordable housing and that's a big thing because he's made that affordable housing almost an infrastructure status by giving 100% exemption on profits. That's a great measure for affordable housing." "Relief for the repayment of interest as well as principal should have been to all categories of housing. Because you need not only affordable housing but you need every segment to push up demand." Hemal Mehta, Partner, Deloitte Haskins & Sells LLP "From the speech of Finance Minister, one of the most awaited exemption of Dividend Distribution Tax on the dividend declared by the portfolio company to REIT and InvIT has been proposed. With this amendment, all the required fiscal support for REIT and InvIT to make it a reality has been done. This will support the developer and fund managers to raise funds through REIT / InvIT and create liquidity." Healthcare Sandeep Patel, CEO, Cigna TTK Health insurance "The budget proposal to launch a new health protection scheme will ensure penetration of health insurance and promote financial inclusion. The proposal for additional Rs30,000 health cover for senior citizens will help reduce the burden of healthcare expenditure for the aged." Nilaya Verma, Head of Healthcare at Consultants KPMG India "It's directionally progressive because of increase in insurance coverage, but what the sector needs is a roadmap. How will the rural (health) infrastructure, and a shortage of doctors and nurses be fixed? We need more details of how healthcare will be made accessible for more people." Taxation Shefali Goradia, Partner, BMR & Associates LLP "It's disappointing that the corporate tax rate that they had talked about last year has not been reduced. Instead, the levy of the tax on dividend is disturbing because it goes against the thread of certainty and stability that this government has been talking about. If you keep changing these things it sends a wrong signal to investors." "The measures on setting up dispute resolution panels are not yet well understood, because there were few details." "The reduction of the long term capital gains period from three years to two years is a big positive." By Marc Jones LONDON (Reuters) - The United States, China, Brazil and India are expected to keep world government debt rising this year, Standard and Poor's said on Monday, despite a small reduction in the annual global borrowing bill. The rating agency released a new report saying the stock of global government debt was expected to rise 2 percent to $42.4 trillion, with new borrowing of $6.7 trillion set to continue to outstrip the amounts being repaid. A number of major countries are behind the underlying trend. U.S. borrowing is expected to increase 8 percent or $163 billion year-on-year, while world number two economy China is forecast to ramp its borrowing 18 percent or $51 billion. The rise in China and in the likes of Brazil and India is set to drive year-on-year emerging market borrowing up 9.4 percent or $587 billion and lift the total EM total debt stock to $6.8 trillion by the end of the year. S&P said it saw the biggest absolute increase in annual borrowing in Brazil, which it expects will borrow $14 billion more in 2016 an increase of 8 percent. Poland and India are both forecast to see $12 billion increases which is an 38 percent rise for the former and 8 percent increase for the latter. In contrast, Japan, the euro zone and others such as Canada, the UK, Mexico and Ukraine are expected to see year-on-year drops in headline borrowing numbers. The euro zone is expected to see a near 6 percent drop, although its overall debt stock will also continue to creep up to just over 7 trillion euros as its countries borrow more than they repay. Globally annual issuance is forecast to dip to $6.745 trillion from $6.899 trillion in 2015, though with $4.9 trillion maturing, the $1.7 trillion 'net' increase will keep the overall debt stock rising. For full report click http://bit.ly/1LQ7wmI (Reporting by Marc Jones; editing by Ralph Boulton) By Rajesh Kumar Singh and Manoj Kumar NEW DELHI (Reuters) - The government unveiled a budget for the poor on Monday, announcing new rural aid schemes and skimping on a bank bailout, in a strategy shift that seeks to boost Prime Minister Narendra Modi's ruling party in coming state elections. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's spending plan sought to cast Modi as a leader who cares after the premier came under sustained opposition fire for being too close to business and spending too much time hobnobbing with foreign leaders. Presenting his third budget, Jaitley said the government wanted to spread the benefits of growth more widely among India's 1.3 billion people, but gave an assurance that it could do so without increasing borrowing. "We have a shared responsibility to spend prudently and wisely for the people, especially for the poor and downtrodden," the 63-year-old finance minister, who wore a powder-blue jacket, told lawmakers. India holds several state elections this year, including in the farming state of West Bengal, with the country's most populous state, Uttar Pradesh, going to the polls in 2017. A strong showing will be vital to Modi's chances of a second term, with doubts still hanging over the impact of economic reforms undertaken since his government swept to power almost two years ago. The spending package for the 2016/17 fiscal year from April 1 mapped out by Jaitley marked a shift from an earlier focus on investing in infrastructure that had tried to kick-start private-sector investment, which still remains weak. Jaitley described his three priorities as: strengthening India's firewalls by ensuring macroeconomic stability and prudent fiscal management; driving growth through domestic demand; and reforms to boost economic opportunity. HOLDING THE LINE Importantly, Jaitley said he would stick to the government's existing fiscal deficit target for the coming year, at 3.5 percent of gross domestic product, down from 3.9 percent in the fiscal year just ending. That lifted government bonds and the rupee as market fears that Jaitley would backslide on the deficit were not borne out. Reflecting tough fiscal constraints, the government will set aside 250 billion rupees ($3.6 billion) to recapitalise state banks. That is less than expected by markets and below the needs identified by finance ministry adviser Arvind Subramanian in his pre-budget report. "We stand solidly behind these banks," Jaitley said. "Our public sector banks will be strong and well supported." The hit banking stocks in trading on the Mumbai stock exchange, although infrastructure firms rallied on Jaitley's announcement that the government would allocate $32 billion for infrastructure development in 2016/17. India would build 10,000 km of new national highways and upgrade another 50,000 km. BUDGET FOR THE POOR Modi's landslide election victory in 2014 raised hopes he would draw a line under India's socialist past, cut welfare and reduce the government's role in business. In its first two years in power, his government splurged on roads and railways at the expense of welfare programmes in the hope of creating economic stimulus. Modi's gamble was that infrastructure investment would yield dividends for the poor and the rural communities. Four in 10 Indians rely directly on farming for their livelihoods, the government estimates. Rising rural distress after back-to-back droughts and a recent heavy election defeat in a largely agricultural state have upset that calculus. It has also left Modi's nationalist ruling party open to attacks by the opposition, who use a Hindi phrase to deride Modi for leading a "suit and boot" government that only works in the interest of the rich. Jaitley's reeled off a list of $16 billion in measures targeted at the countryside, including spending on a job creation scheme, farmers' welfare and building of rural roads. He targeted a total of $130 billion in credit to farmers. ($1 = 68.7100 Indian rupees) (Reporting by New Delhi and Mumbai teams; Writing by Douglas Busvine; Editing by Paritosh Bansal and Simon Cameron-Moore) By Promit Mukherjee MUMBAI (Reuters) - India announced plans to boost natural gas output by allowing explorers to set gas prices on the basis of imported alternative fuels, but analysts said the measures would not be enough to attract investment. India, which imports about 45 percent of the gas it consumes, wants to ramp up its output and boost demand for cleaner fuel, the country's finance minister Arun Jaitley said during a speech announcing the annual budget on Monday. Jaitley said the government was considering providing incentives for gas production from deep-water, ultra deep-water and high pressure-high temperature areas, which remain underexplored due to higher costs. "Their discovery and exploitation has been below our potential," Jaitley said. The government also plans to provide greater marketing freedom for new gas discoveries and for discoveries in areas that are yet to start production, Jaitley said. However, analysts said the only alternative fuel India imports is liquefied natural gas (LNG), which is linked to crude oil, prices of which have declined by over 70 percent since August 2014. "Given that the price of imported LNG is mostly oil-indexed, in the medium term the ceiling would be set at a moderate level, given the muted outlook of crude oil prices," said Debasish Mishra, partner at the consultancy Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu India LLP. Mishra said a gradual move towards a market-linked gas price regime was a welcome step, as it would encourage domestic production of natural gas, and companies would expect to get higher premiums. India's Reliance Industries Ltd and the country's largest state-owned explorer Oil and Natural Gas Corporation have both called for a rise in domestic gas prices. Reliance has repeatedly warned over the last few years that it would not invest in its gas blocks in the Bay of Bengal in eastern India unless it got market-linked prices. ONGC has also similarly claimed its investments at its fields on the eastern coast of India would be unviable if domestic gas prices did not increase. In a reprieve to both firms, finance minister Jaitley said that the government would offer a premium on domestic natural gas prices to gas blocks that have already been discovered. (Reporting by Promit Mukherjee, editing by Louise Heavens) India and the United States are closing in on an agreement to share military logistics after 12 years of talks, officials said, a sign of strengthening defence ties between the countries as China becomes increasingly assertive. The United States has emerged as India's top arms source after years of dominance by Russia, and holds more joint exercises with it than any other country. It is in talks with New Delhi to help build its largest aircraft carrier in the biggest military collaboration to date, a move that will bolster the Indian navy's strength as China expands its reach in the Indian Ocean. After years of foot-dragging by previous governments over fears that the logistics agreement would draw India into a binding commitment to support the United States in war, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has signalled a desire to move ahead with the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA). That would allow the two militaries to use each other's land, air and naval bases for resupplies, repair and rest, officials said. Admiral Harry Harris, head of the U.S. Navy's Pacific Command, said the two sides were working on the LSA, another agreement called the CISMOA for secure communications when the militaries operate together, and a third on exchange of topographical, nautical, and aeronautical data. "We have not gotten to the point of signing them with India, but I think we're close," Harris, due in India this week, told the U.S. House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday. The progress comes as the countries consider joint maritime patrols that a U.S. official said could include the South China Sea, where China is locked in a territorial dispute with Vietnam, the Philippines and Taiwan among . Both sides, though, said there were no immediate plans for such patrols, which drew strong condemnation from Beijing. An Indian government official said the main impediment to signing the LSA had been cleared, after Washington gave an assurance that New Delhi was not bound by it if the U.S. went to war with a friendly country or undertook any other unilateral action that New Delhi did not support. "It has been clarified that it will be done on a case-to-case basis; it's not automatic that either side will get access to facilities in the case of war," the official familiar with the negotiations said. India's previous centre-left government was worried the agreements would undermine India's strategic autonomy and that it would draw it into an undeclared military alliance with the United States. Concerns linger over the proposed communications agreement, with some branches of the military including the air force fearing it would allow the United States to access their communications network. U.S. officials said they hoped that once the logistics agreement was signed, the would follow. A U.S. defence industry source engaged in business in India said there were expectations the LSA could be sealed by the time U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter visited New Delhi in April. The source said Modi's office was directly involved in the matter and actively considering the agreements as a key for enhanced cooperation. India has been alarmed by Chinese naval forays into the Indian Ocean and its involvement in maritime infrastructure on island nations that it traditionally considered its back yard. It has moved to shore up naval forces and build defence ties with Japan and Vietnam, besides the United States. "There is growing convergence between Obama's Asia pivot and Modi's Act East policy," said Saroj Bishoyi, an expert on the proposed India-U.S. collaboration at the government-funded Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses in New Delhi. "The LSA currently appears to be a doable agreement." By Sanjeev Miglani and David Brunnstrom NEW DELHI/WASHINGTON (Reuters) - India and the United States are closing in on an agreement to share military logistics after 12 years of talks, officials said, a sign of strengthening defence ties between the countries as China becomes increasingly assertive. The United States has emerged as India's top arms source after years of dominance by Russia, and holds more joint exercises with it than any other country. It is in talks with New Delhi to help build its largest aircraft carrier in the biggest military collaboration to date, a move that will bolster the Indian navy's strength as China expands its reach in the Indian Ocean. After years of foot-dragging by previous governments over fears that the logistics agreement would draw India into a binding commitment to support the United States in war, Prime Minister Narendra Modi's administration has signalled a desire to move ahead with the Logistics Support Agreement (LSA). That would allow the two militaries to use each other's land, air and naval bases for resupplies, repair and rest, officials said. Admiral Harry Harris, head of the U.S. Navy's Pacific Command, said the two sides were working on the LSA, another agreement called the CISMOA for secure communications when the militaries operate together, and a third on exchange of topographical, nautical, and aeronautical data. "We have not gotten to the point of signing them with India, but I think we're close," Harris, due in India this week, told the U.S. House Armed Services Committee on Wednesday. The progress comes as the countries consider joint maritime patrols that a U.S. official said could include the South China Sea, where China is locked in a territorial dispute with Vietnam, the Philippines and Taiwan among others. Both sides, though, said there were no immediate plans for such patrols, which drew strong condemnation from Beijing. MAIN HURDLE CLEARED An Indian government official said the main impediment to signing the LSA had been cleared, after Washington gave an assurance that New Delhi was not bound by it if the U.S. went to war with a friendly country or undertook any other unilateral action that New Delhi did not support. "It has been clarified that it will be done on a case-to-case basis; it's not automatic that either side will get access to facilities in the case of war," the official familiar with the negotiations said. Asked whether China was concerned such cooperation was actually aimed at Beijing, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said: "We hope the relevant cooperation is beneficial to regional peace and cooperation and should not be aimed at the interests of third parties." India's previous centre-left government was worried the agreements would undermine India's strategic autonomy and that it would draw it into an undeclared military alliance with the United States. Concerns linger over the proposed communications agreement, with some branches of the military including the air force fearing it would allow the United States to access their communications network. U.S. officials said they hoped that once the logistics agreement was signed, the others would follow. A U.S. defence industry source engaged in business in India said there were expectations the LSA could be sealed by the time U.S. Defense Secretary Ash Carter visited New Delhi in April. The source said Modi's office was directly involved in the matter and actively considering the agreements as a key for enhanced cooperation. India has been alarmed by Chinese naval forays into the Indian Ocean and its involvement in maritime infrastructure on island nations that it traditionally considered its back yard. It has moved to shore up naval forces and build defence ties with Japan and Vietnam, besides the United States. "There is growing convergence between Obama's Asia pivot and Modi's Act East policy," said Saroj Bishoyi, an expert on the proposed India-U.S. collaboration at the government-funded Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses in New Delhi. "The LSA currently appears to be a doable agreement." (Additional reporting by Ben Blanchard in BEIJING; Writing by Sanjeev Miglani; Editing by Mike Collett-White) By Sanjeev Miglani NEW DELHI (Reuters) - India plans to focus defence spending more on the domestic market instead of importing combat planes, ships and submarines, after saying on Monday it will leave military spending for 2016/17 largely unchanged following years of increases. Major global defence companies have been circling over the Indian market, buoyed by the military's modernisation plans worth more than $100 billion. But the government of Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed to end the military's dependence on imports that have made it the world's largest buyer, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. "For the first time this government is having a look at our procurement policies and they are telling the military we are not interested in your outright purchases anymore," said Deba R. Mohanty, chairman of Indicia Research and Advisory, a consulting firm on defence affairs. India's military is deployed on the border with China as well as Pakistan and says it has to plan for a "collusive threat" from them both. For decades it relied on the former Soviet Union to supply planes, ships and artillery. Then it turned to Western manufacturers including France, United Kingdom and in recent years Israel and the United States for expensive combat planes, missiles and surveillance planes. In his federal budget presented to parliament on Monday Finance Minister Arun Jaitley allocated 2.49 trillion Indian rupees ($36.5 billion) for defence, a 0.96 percent increase over the 2015/16 allocation of 2.46 trillion rupees. Amit Cowshish, who handled defence accounting in the ministry, said more than funds, the bigger problem was lack of clarity on the defence procurement policy. "It's not that the money is not there, it's that there's no still no clear-cut policy on indigenous manufacture, the procedures etc. That is why even the money that has been allocated ends up not being spent." The budget papers showed that the military didn't spend the full amount given to it last year. The revised estimate for spending for the fiscal year ending in March was 2.24 trillion rupees. Defence wages and pensions have also risen this year, making even less money available for modernisation, Cowshish said. China is expected to announce a large rise in defence spending next month, as the ruling Communist Party seeks to assuage the military's unhappiness at sweeping reforms and as worries over the South China Sea and Taiwan weigh on Beijing. At 886.9 billion yuan ($136.4 billion), China's budgeted defence spending last year was more than three times that of India's expenditure announced on Monday. ($1 = 68.2895 Indian rupees) (Editing by Hugh Lawson) WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Three U.S. lawmakers are urging the U.S. Treasury Department to conduct a rigorous national security review of any deal that China's Zoomlion <000157.SZ> makes to buy U.S. crane maker Terex Corp . Terex had reached a deal to be purchased by Finland's Konecranes but has been considering an approach by Zoomlion. Last week, Terex urged the Chinese company to sweeten its $3.3 billion offer but did not say how much higher Zoomlion needed to go to win an agreement. That has worried at least three lawmakers, who wrote to the Treasury Department, which heads the inter-agency Commission on Foreign Investment in the United States. CFIUS reviews mergers and investment by foreign firms that might harm national security. Republican Representatives Mike Rogers of Alabama and Walter Jones of North Carolina wrote letters last week to U.S. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew urging that CFIUS carefully review the prospective deal because of Terex's defence contracts. "I strongly caution you to apply robust scrutiny to any possible Chinese takeover of an American company that supplies resources to our service members," wrote Jones, who sits on the House of Representatives Armed Services Committee. Republican Representative Duncan Hunter of California, who is also on the Armed Services Committee, wrote a similar letter in mid-February. (Reporting by Diane Bartz; Editing by Peter Cooney) Finance Minister Arun Jaitley used the word rural 25 times in his Budget speech on Monday and identified the sector as one of the nine pillars to transform India. Last year, he had mentioned the word only 11 times, but this year, the rural sector has been chosen as a top priority, with emphasis on employment and infrastructure. However, those expecting a considerable boost to the rural employment guarantee scheme were disappointed.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 We wish to enhance expenditure in the farm and rural sector, the social sector, the infrastructure sector and provide for re-capitalisation of banks. This will address those sectors which need immediate attention, the finance minister said. However, for the rural employment guarantee scheme, there was only a marginal hike of Rs 3,801 crore, about 11 per cent more than last year. For rural areas a whole, the total allocation has been hiked from Rs 79,526 crore (Budget Estimate, or BE) in the last Budget (2015-16) to Rs 87,765 crore this year (2016-17). It means a growth of slightly more than 10 per cent over BE. This years Budget, however, has several schemes to help improve the health of the rural economy. For electrification of all villages, Rs 8,500 crore has been allocated. There are more than 13,500 villages yet to get electricity the government plans to cover all of them by May, 2018. Another focus of the Budget is the new digital literacy mission, which will target 60 million households over the next three years. The government estimates show that 120 million, of the total 160 million, rural households do not have computers. People from these households are likely to be slow in catching up on digital literacy. The new scheme, details of which will be announced later, will address this, said the minister. Computerisation of land records also found special mention in the Budget. An integrated land management system is proposed and Jaitley allocated Rs 150 crore for it. There were a number of other specific schemes aimed at the rural sector. A majority of the beneficiaries of rural LPG connections in the name of women in Below Poverty Line (BPL) households will be from rural areas. With an allocation of Rs 2,000 crore, the government will provide LPG connections to 15 million households this year. The scheme will run for two more years, covering 50 million BPL households. That rising expenditure on costly health care is one of the major contributors to growing rural deprivation. The government has announced a health protection plan offering coverage of Rs 1 lakh per family. Senior citizens will have an additional cover of Rs 30,000. The government also plans to open 3,000 generic drugs stores this year. Faced with criticism from some quarters in the wake of the suicide of a Dalit scholar in Hyderabad University, the government tried to present a pro-Dalit image by announcing a scheme to promote entrepreneurship among Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes. Jaitley said, We have provided Rs 500 crore for this. The scheme will facilitate at least two projects per branch of banks, one for each category of entrepreneur. This will benefit at least 250,000 entrepreneurs. Experts said the governments new rural focus is aimed at increasing its appeal in the villages ahead of crucial Assembly elections in West Bengal, Assam, Tamil Nadu and Uttar Pradesh in the coming months. Incidentally, the industrial sector, too, was expecting a rural push in the Budget as some sectors have suffered from falling demand in rural areas. BUDGET FOR BHARAT The process of demystifying the began some years ago, when the government would introduce new duties or revise rates whenever the need arose. Take steel. Delhi first announced a 20 per cent safeguard duty on hot-rolled coil in mid-September and then, much to the industry's relief, introduced in February minimum import prices of $341 and $752 a tonne on 173 products. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley gave credit to Rahul Gandhi for accepting his recommendation on incentives for braille users. But Rahul Gandhi may deserve more credit than that. His oft-repeated jibe calling Prime Minister Narendra Modis government a suit-boot ki sarkar (a government for corporate India) seems to have hit home, as reflected in the special care taken by the finance minister to keep the focus on rural India. A major portion of the budget speech was directed towards rural economy and promoting a populist agenda, while India Inc didnt have all that much to really cheer about. As Business Standards TN Ninan observed, Budget speech had several references to the poor, none to the neo-middle class that was the governments earlier focus. When Finance Minister Arun Jaitley used lines of poetry to illustrate the philosophy of Union Budget 2016-17, a small smile played on the face of his son Rohan, seated in the visitors gallery. Loosely translated, the lines Jaitley read out were: Tired and defeated, they handed the oars to us/we found ourselves in the midst of a tempest and a raging tide/but we did and we will any time/show that we too know how to conquer choppy waters.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 His family wife, Sangeeta; daughter, Sonali; son-in-law, Jayesh Bakshi; and son were among the first to be seated in the Lok Sabha gallery. They were witness to the Congress attempts to raise the issue of a sedition case filed on Sunday against the partys Vice-President Rahul Gandhi (and other Opposition leaders). But the cries died out as Jaitley moved ahead with the Budget speech. Rahul Gandhi could only manage a grimace. The lawmakers reserved the loudest applause for his announcements on the farm sector. Food Processing Minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal performed a short salute when Jaitley announced full foreign direct investment in marketing food products made in India would be allowed through the Foreign Investment Promotion Board. The parliamentarians from Karnataka and Maharashtra (two states that have seen three back-to-back years of drought) applauded Jaitleys announcement on the creation of rural infrastructure through Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana. The scheme aims to connect all the villages in the country with all-weather roads in the next two or three years. For the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Generation Scheme, the government has reserved Rs 38,500 crore. Also, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana will insure crops. Another announcement that was very popular was the electrification of all villages. Power Minister Piyush Goyal was the recipient of praise from Finance Minister Jaitley, who spoke fondly about his work and how his ministry had achieved targets well ahead of deadlines. The visitors gallery was almost full, and the Distinguished Visitors Gallery occupied by the guests invited specially by the Speaker was packed to capacity. All of them were greeted by Sangeeta Jaitley, the wife of the finance minister. The gallery for foreign visitors was occupied by representatives of Sweden, Indias pastern in the Make in India campaign in Mumbai; and quite unaccountably, Zambia. A Zambian diplomat told his Swedish companions: I want to see the reaction [of the others] when I tell them which country I am from. Recently, there have been reports of racial abuse against Zambians in New Delhi and Bengaluru. The chartered accountants among Jaitleys party colleagues expressed their approval for the speech: Kirit Somaiya took furious notes, Railway Minister Suresh Prabhu nodded emphatically, and Power Minister Goyal thumped the table. After delivering a large part of the speech on his feet, the finance minister had to sit down, tired, but as the congratulations poured in afterwards, he seemed obviously happy and relieved. Finance Minister Arun Jaitleys budget speech put agriculture and the rural economy on top of the agenda for the government in 2016-17. Two consecutive droughts and record low farm prices forced the finance minister to raise the allocation for agriculture and farmers welfare by 94 per cent.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 . . The hike, among the biggest in recent times, includes a Rs 15,000-crore interest subvention for short-term crop loans. Jaitley introduced a Kisan Kalyan Cess at the rate of 0.5 per cent on all taxable services through which Rs 5,000 crore will be garnered. We need to think beyond food security and give our farmers a sense of income security. The government will, therefore, reorient its interventions to double the income of the farmers by 2022, the minister said in Parliament. Jaitley allowed 100 per cent foreign direct investment through the Foreign Investment Promotion Board for marketing of food products made in India. This will benefit small farmers because foreign players can source raw material from India. He also announced a series of tax breaks for cold chains. An amount of Rs 368 crore has been provided for soil health cards, up from Rs 200 crore in 2015-16. The benefits of transferring the fertiliser subsidy directly to beneficiaries are wide-ranging and will bring immense benefits to all the stakeholders the government, farmers, fertiliser manufacturers, and the public, fertiliser company IFFCO said in a statement. A major portion of Jaitleys speech was devoted on what the Centre planned to make Indian farming drought-proof. Irrigation schemes captured a major portion of his budget announcements, including excise duty concessions on pump-sets. For the Prime Ministers Fasal Bima Yojana, Jaitley allocated over Rs 5,500 crore against an annual requirement of over Rs 8,800 crore. He also announced a three-pronged strategy to ensure farmers received the minimum support price set by the Centre. This includes encouraging states to take up decentralised procurement, starting an online procurement system through the FCI, and making effective arrangements for procurement of pulses. For the dairy and animal husbandry sector, the finance minister announced three new programmes with an allocation of over Rs 850 crore. Jaitley said to increase crop yields in rainfed areas, which account for nearly 55 per cent of the countrys arable land, organic farming would be promoted for which the Centre was allocating Rs 412 crore. A national level competition will be held among 674 Krishi Vigyan Kendras with a total prize money of Rs 50 lakh to improve the efficiency and performance of these kendras, Jaitley announced. The finance minister lowered the food subsidy for 2016-17 to Rs 134,834 crore against a revised estimate of Rs 139,419 crore, while raising the allocation for the price stabilisation fund to Rs 900 crore from Rs 500 crore in 2015-16. The Budget has a very obvious rural development focus. The finance minister has shared his vision of providing socio-economic security for the farming community. We believe the focus on rural electrification, skill development schemes, farming-focused interventions, farm-to-market connectivity, agriculture and farmer welfare schemes will impact the rural community favourably, said Arun Nagpal, co-founder of the Mrida Group, a social business venture focussed on rural India. The of Northeast has welcomed the 2016-17 Union budget, presented by finance minister Arun Jaitley, in the parliament today. We welcome the emphasis given by the finance minister on jobs, rural development, and structural reforms and transformation, said Abhijit Barooah, co-chairman of Confederation of Indian Industrys (CII) North East Council.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 He added that the had laid major emphasis on entrepreneurship and small business which would spur the entrepreneurship movement in the northeastern region. Further, lowering of corporate taxes for units with revenue below Rs 5 crore and 100% tax exemption for startups for three years would benefit small business and the micro, small and medium enterprises (MSME) sector in the region, he said. Notwithstanding the impact of the Seventh Pay Commission, one rank one pension outgo and global economic slowdown, the finance minister must be given credit for presenting a all inclusive balanced and growth oriented with a focus on rural and agriculture sector on the one hand and infrastructure on the other hand, said R S Joshi, chairman of Federation of and Commerce of North Eastern Region (FINER), the leading trade and body of Northeast. The has allocated Rs 500 crore for scheduled caste, scheduled tribe and women entrepreneurs under the Stand-Up India scheme. Additionally, the proposed MSME Hub in partnership with industry associations to provide professional support to SC/ST entrepreneurs is also expected to play a role in the region. The proposed structural reforms and infrastructure augmentations including high impact announcement on enhanced road infrastructure to the tune of over Rs 97,000 crore are expected to promote tourism, supply chain, logistics sector and create greater job opportunities, said Barooah. He added that the proposal to have 1,500 multi-skilled centres would create a pool of skilled manpower in the country. The Union budget is prudent and at the same time ambitious. The sting may come on his fiscal targets unless revenue is not overestimated. It is well balanced and has made the much awaited attempt to create the enablers for growth and unlock the true potential of the country. Creating growth engines for rural areas and complementing these by enhancing the infrastructure sector outlays have positive effects in the Northeastern region, said Barun Barpujari, former chairman, of CIIs Assam State Council. Joshi felt that since the outlay of rural sector had been significantly enhanced in the budget, the agriculture-dominated Northeastern state economies could now expect a quantum jump in resource allotments. The government is planning to spend Rs 5,500 crore for the crop insurance scheme that was announced earlier, the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. In his speech, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said that the farmers will have to pay a nominal premium for the coverage. There will be an uniform premium of 2% needs to be paid by farmers for all Kharif crops and 1.5% for all Rabi crops. In case of annual commercial and horticultural crops, the premium to be paid by farmers will be only 5%. The balance premium will be paid by the government.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 There is no upper limit on government subsidy and even if balance premium is 90%, it will be borne by the government. Insurance executives said that the Modified National Agricultural Insurance Scheme (MNAIS) had high premium rate due to which farmers could not afford it. It is anticipated that there would be clusters that would be formed of districts to implement the scheme. Senior insurance officials said that that the way the clusters are classified will define how the premiums will be fixed. The use of technology has been mandated in the PM Crop Insurance Scheme unlike the other schemes prior to this. The 2016-17 turned out to be a damp squib for banks, as public sector lenders, weighed down by capital-eroding bad debts in their books, did not get an increase in their capital allotment beyond the planned Rs 25,000 crore announced last year. However, the government gave a push to the consolidation agenda of banks in the . Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said in his speech that the government has started the process of transformation of IDBI Bank and will look at bringing down government's stake in the bank below 50 per cent, from 80.16 per cent now. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 The Bank Board Bureau, set up on 28 February, will propose ways for consolidation of existing public sector banks, he said in his Budget speech, but the immediate priority is to strengthen banks' balance sheets, Jaitley later clarified. "Our public sector banks will have to be strong and competitive," Jaitley said in his speech, adding "the bank board bureau will be operationalized during 2016-17 and a roadmap for consolidation of public sector banks will be spelt out," Jaitley said. Clarifying on a televised meeting with editors, Jaitley said the consolidation will not be an "alternative for improving their balance sheets." Later in the evening, in his interaction with the press, the finance minister said the government was committed to bring down its stake in public sector banks to 52 per cent, but not before strengthening of balance sheets. "Our immediate agenda is to strengthen the banks," Jaitley said, adding, the capitalisation number quoted in the Budget may not be the final one. "This is not the last word on recapitalisation. Be prepared for something more," he said, adding there were still some recapitalisation amount left from this year to be carried forward in the next year. Jaitley said the process of transformation of IDBI Bank has already started and "government will take it forward and also consider the option of reducing its stake to below 50%." Referring to government's intent to reduce stake below 50 per cent, B K Batra, deputy managing director of IDBI Bank said when this happens, bank will have greater flexibility in operations and this will help to realise business potential. Earlier, government's stake in the bank had dipped below 60 per cent, creating rigidity in raising capital. First government had to infuse capital and only then some room got created for raising capital from others, Batra said, adding the latest proposal would free the lender from any such constraints. But IDBI could be the easiest and obvious target for bank privatisation. The bank is established under the Companies Act and a privatisation proposal need not be moved in the Parliament. "What is feasible for IDBI may not be feasible for other banks," said Ananda Bhoumik, senior director, India Ratings and Research. The analyst community was largely expecting the government to propose higher capital infusion for public sector banks, but that did not happen. The proposed Rs 25,000 crore is part of the planned recapitalisation that the government announced last year, under its Indradhanush programme. Under the plan, the government will infuse Rs 70,000 crore in phases and has already infused Rs 19,950 crore to 13 public sector banks. Hence, there is nothing much new in the racapitalisation front, except Jaitley's assurance that the government was ready with more capital if needed be and it stands "solidly behind these Banks." Analysts were not assured though. "The support provided by the Union Budget was very inadequate," said Vaibhav Agrawal, head of research at Angel Broking Ltd. "Overall, there was nothing much to address the stressed assets of public sector banks. Inadequate capital support would mean that the banks would have to dragged on and provide for bad debts from their own P&L and they won't be able to lend much," Agrawal said. To help a faster resolution of stressed assets, the finance minister said the debt recovery tribunals will be strengthened, and the government will computerise processing of court cases to improve the existing infrastructure and faster disposal of cases. The government will also try and push for the passage of Insolvency and Bankruptcy law, Jaitley said in his speech. Apart from the resolution mechanism of companies, a comprehensive Code on Resolution of Financial Firms will be introduced as a Bill in the Parliament during 2016-17. This Code will provide a specialised resolution mechanism to deal with bankruptcy situations in banks, insurance companies and financial sector entities. 2016-17 was the canvas on which finance minister Arun Jaitley could have painted his most ambitious picture since the NDA government will more or less move into electioneering mode starting next years . Jaitley has largely used the opportunity. Since he has decided to limit the colour palette of the budget, set by the ceiling of an unchanged fiscal deficit target at 3.9 % for FY 16 and 3.5% for FY17, he has been frugal with additional spending. In FY 17 his additional resource base is just about Rs 90,000 crore. Of this, he must spend Rs 25,000 crore to recapitalize banks, and another Rs 40,000 crore for capital investment. Of this, Rs 17,000 crore is to be spent for investment in irrigation projects. To keep to the straight and narrow, he has used all the cess opportunities available like Krish Kalyan Cess to raise Rs 5,000 crore and another voluntary income disclosure scheme.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 Has he been innovative, especially after his Economic Survey tabled on Friday has raised the expectations for new era of interventions? The minister has used some of them to raise the quality of interventions in employment creation and in infrastructure, and a key one in the financial sector, but has eschewed several others. Would this be ascribed as the one that provided the right environment for India to pursue a 7.6 % GDP growth rate? The finance minister has offered a fiscally prudent budget but a the same time packaging it within political hardsell of appealing to rural India, said Rathin Roy, director NIPFP. Since Jaitley does not have money to chase too many projects he has instead aimed at big bang institutional measures. He has announced plans to reframing of the Aadhaar bill as Targeted Delivery bill for Financial and other Subsidies. By linking the bill to subsidies, he has adroitly sought to defang opposition to the bill fearing privacy issues. The second is the tentative start to bank denationalizationthe plan to reduce government holding in IDBI Bank to below 50% is a means to test the waters over this biggest relic of Indian nationalization story. The other major intervention is the plan to underwrite the employers contribution for their new employees to the Employee Provident Fund. This will run for three yearsin addition to the expansion of scope of tax incentive. In short he has helped corporate India to get on with their investments, sticking to his bargain of fiscal prudence thereby making it easy for RBI to cut rates. And that is the big one from Budget for now It was a mixed day for the aviation sector in 2016 day as the governments push to improve regional connectivity by reviving 160 airports was negated by a hike in excise duty on aviation turbine fuel which will push up the price of air travel. In order to give a boost to regional connectivity, finance minister Arun Jaitley allocated a sum of Rs 50-100 crore to revive 160 non-functional airports across the country. "In civil aviation, 160 non-functional airports to be revived at a cost of Rs 50-100 crore each and 10 of 25 defunct airstrips, Jaitley said. This will be developed in partnership with the state government.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 Plans to build no-frills, low cost airports has already been envisaged in the Draft Civil Aviation Policy. As the sector cheered the grant, it soon turned out that the was not all roses. The excise duty on air turbine fuel has been hiked from 8% to 14%. This will partly remove the cushion that airlines were enjoying due to the steep fall in crude oil price. At a time when ATF in India is already costlier than the global price, it goes against the governments objective to make flying affordable, said Amber Dubey, partner and head-aerospace and defence at consultancy firm KPMG. Simultaneously, to give a boost to Make in India programme, finance minister Arun Jaitley accepted a long pending demand by the to rationalise taxation on maintenance, repairs and overhaul (MRO). Jaitley announced sops include zero service tax on MRO, services, simplification of import processes for aircraft spares, exemption on customs duty for maintenance tools and tool kit and removal of the one year window restriction period for using duty free parts. Civil Aviation Minister Ashok Gajapathy had earlier said that the finance ministry has been sympathetic to the demand for tax relief to the MRO . The earlier tax regime meant that Indian MROs were 20-30% costlier than those abroad, leading even airlines here to repair their aircraft in foreign countries, including Sri Lanka and Singapore. The MRO in India is estimiated to be worth $700 million. Reforms in MRO procedure, duty free period and free stay period are welcome but bigger relief in terms of zero rating of service tax and infrastructure status have been left out, Dubey added. Meanwhile the government reduced budgetary allocation to the civil aviation ministry by 17% to Rs 4,417 crore from R ,360.95 crore the previous year. Of that amount, state run airlines got a grant of Rs 2,065 crore- significantly lower than their demand of Rs 4,300 crore. Odisha Chief Minister Naveen Patnaik voiced his disappointment over the meagre hike in outlay for irrigation sector in the Union and falling share of states in devolution of central taxes. "Irrigation is the lifeline for agriculture and we expected a huge jump in allocation for irrigation. However, it is hugely disappointing to note that there has been an insignificant increase under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY), the flagship irrigation scheme of Government of India, from Rs 5,300 crore to Rs 5,700 crore only for the entire country. For a realistic comparison, our State for water resources last year was more than Rs 6,500 crore," Patnaik said in his reaction to the 2016-17. Pointing to the mismatch in the growth of net tax revenue to the Centre and tax devolution to the states, he said, "The net tax revenue to the Centre has been projected to increase by about three per cent from Rs 9.20 lakh crore in Budget Estimates for 2015-16 to Rs 9.48 lakh crore in Revised Estimates, 2015-16, where as the tax devolution to the states has gone down by about 3.5 percent in the Revised Estimates. This is indicative of the fact that the Centre is depriving the states of their share through levy of cess and surcharge, which do not form a part of the sharable pool." Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 As against the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission, the share of Odisha is less by about Rs 3500 crore in 2015-16 and down by Rs 4,600 crore in 2016-17 from the recommended level. Depriving the states of their legitimate share is rather unfair, Patnaik rued. "The finances of our state will be stretched on account of less than anticipated transfer of resources from the Centre. While looking back, the state government has taken the right decision to place its budget after presentation of Union Budget, otherwise it would have been an impractical guess work," he added. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley addressed a post- press conference, along with Minister of State for Finance Jayant Sinha, all secretaries in the finance ministry and Chief Economic Advisor Arvind Subramanian. Later, he also had a separate interaction with reporters. Excerpts from both events: On consolidation of state-owned banks. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 Jaitley: The first and immediate agenda is to strengthen the banks. We will strengthen them by recapitalising the banks. Thereafter, we are willing to look at consolidation among subsidiaries, consolidation of subsidiaries with the principal bank, consolidation of a weak bank with a strong bank subject to an overall 52 per cent discipline that we have laid down for ourselves. On further capitalisation of banks Jaitley: What I have announced today (Monday) is not the last word or last amount as far as recapitalisation is concerned. Therefore, something more will happen. On tax rebates Revenue Secretary Hasmukh Adhia: Tax rebate has been increased from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000 for a person having income of Rs 5 lakh per annum. The second benefit is the deduction for rental, which comes to Rs 3,600 extra. In all, they get a relief of Rs 6,600. On disinvestment Jaitley: You have the minority stake sales and you have the option of selling hotels and other facilities like in ITDC. What I have done is given a third option. Say you have a company with 20 units. If it is decided that two of those units can be sold, then they will be sold to a private player, and the public sector unit can perhaps build two more units with the money that they get. It is about prioritisation - whether you want to hold that additional 20 per cent stake or use that money to build a road. DIPAM (erstwhile disinvestment) Secretary Neeraj Kumar Gupta: The announcements show the new approach of the . There has been a policy conversion. Change in the name of the department clearly underlines the new approach of the . We are committed to efficient management and leveraging of investment in the central public sector enterprises for expansion of economic activities as well as attracting fresh investments. We are confident that the targets for the year will be met. On the fiscal deficit target Finance Secretary Ratan Watal: There were credibility and optimisation arguments for adhering to fiscal deficit target and that is embedded in our exercise. We have made domestic savings available to private sector. On medium-term fiscal framework Watal: The medium-term fiscal framework will be looked into. We will have to look into it from the point of view of debt and impact on growth. Reviewing FRBM (Fiscal Responsibility and Management) does not mean we will do away with fiscal balancing. On capital spending and subsidies: Watal: We are committed to maintaining our capital spending levels at 12 per cent of the GDP and major subsidies at 1.6 per cent of the GDP. On borrowing targets for the year Economic Affairs Secretary Shaktikanta Das: Maintaining the fiscal deficit target has ensured that the government's borrowing requirement has been kept to a minimum. The borrowing requirement for the year is Rs 4.2 lakh crore. On the thrust of the Budget Jaitley: The deals with the reality of India. The challenge is to address the rural slowdown and build agriculture infrastructure. NHAI to raise Rs 15,000 crore through bonds National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) will raise Rs 15,000 crore through bonds in 2016-17. This will add to the government's efforts to boost roads and highways capacity in line with the rapid rise in road construction. India's highest-ever kilometerage of new highways were awarded in 2015. . Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 Total infrastructure outlay stands at Rs 2.2 lakh crore The outlay for the infrastructure sector in 2016-17 is Rs 221,000 crore. This includes Rs 218,000 crore of outlay for the roads and the railways sectors put together. More than 10,000 km of new highways will be awarded in 2016-17. Also, more than 50,000 km of state highways will be taken up for upgradation. Rural jobs scheme gets Rs 38,500 crore A sum of Rs 38,500 crore has been allocated for Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme in 2016-17. Under the scheme, cluster facilitation teams will be set up to ensure water conservation and natural resource management, to tackle issues of draught and rural distress. Rs 87,765 crore for rural development Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has allocated Rs 87,765 crore for rural development as a whole. This includes allocations for the Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan, modernisation of land records, a new Digital Literacy Mission for rural India and other schemes. Rs 9 lakh crore for agricultural credit Care has been taken to ensure adequate flow of credit to farmers. Against the target of Rs 8.5 lakh crore in 2015-16, the target for agricultural credit in 2016-17 will be Rs 9 lakh crore. To reduce farmers' loan repayment burden, a provision of Rs 15,000 crore has been made towards interest subvention. 100% village electrification by May 2018 The is targeting to achieve 100 per cent village electrification by May 2018. As part of the effort, Rs 8,500 crore has been provided for the Deendayal Upadhyay Gram Jyoti Yojana and the Integrated Power Development Scheme. At the end of March 2015, 18,542 villages were not electrified. Rs 412 crore for organic farming schemes The has allocated Rs 412 crore for organic farming schemes, including the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana, that will bring 500,000 acres under organic farming and the Organic Value Chain Development in the north-east region. The aim is higher value addition in organic farming. Rs 2,000 crore for LPG connections for the poor Rs 2,000 crore has been set aside to meet the cost of providing LPG connections to women of poor households. The scheme, called Ujjwala, will benefit 15 million households below the poverty line in 2016-17. The scheme will cover 50 million households over two more years. Dedicated irrigation fund created A dedicated long-term irrigation fund will be created in National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development, with an initial corpus of Rs 20,000 crore. The has promised 89 irrigation projects will be fast-tracked. These need Rs 17,000 crore in the next financial year and Rs 86,500 crore in five years. Big boost for rural road-building scheme The has allocated Rs 19,000 crore for the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). Along with the states' share, a total of Rs 27,000 crore will be spent on the scheme in the next financial year. The idea is to connect the remaining 65,000 eligible habitations by building 223,000 km of roads. Road construction activity to be stepped up The pace of roads construction, currently 100 km per day, as compared to an average of 73.5 km between 2011 and 2014, will be substantially stepped up. Rs 55,000 crore has been allocated for the roads and highways sector. The pace of completion of road projects will rise to 10,000 km in 2016-17. Awards for open defecation-free villages Rs 9,000 crore has been provided for the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, the drive to improve sanitation and cleanliness, especially in rural India. To promote it, priority allocations from centrally sponsored schemes will be made to reward villages that have become free from open defecation. Health scheme cover of Rs 1 lakh per family To help families that are hit by catastrophic events leading to out-of-pocket expenses, the will launch a new health protection scheme with a coverage of up to Rs 1 lakh per family. Senior citizens 60 years and above from this category will get an additional top-up package of up to Rs 30,000. Dialysis services programme to be launched The will start a 'National Dialysis Services Programme' under which funds will be made available through PPP mode under the National Health Mission in all district hospitals. Certain parts of dialysis equipment will be exempted from excise/customs duties to reduce the cost. Scheme to promote SC/ST entrepreneurs The Budget provides Rs 500 crore for the 'Stand Up India Scheme' to promote entrepreneurship among SC/ST and women. The scheme will facilitate at least two projects per bank branch, one for each category of entrepreneur. This will benefit at least 2.5 lakh entrepreneurs, enabling them to create jobs. Initiatives to promote quality education The allocation for the Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan has been increased, to promote quality education. Also, 62 new Navodaya Vidyalayas will be opened over the next two years. A Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) with an initial capital base of Rs 1,000 crore will also be set up. Road transport sector to be opened up The government will enact necessary amendments in the Motor Vehicles Act and open up the road transport sector in the passenger segment. The idea is to increase efficiency in the passenger traffic segment which suffers from a lack of reforms and multiple impediments. Under-utilised airports to be revived The government is drawing up an action plan for revival of under-utilised airports. There are about 160 airports and air strips in states which will be revived at an indicative cost of Rs 50-100 crore each. The Centre will partner with the states to develop some of these airports for regional connectivity. Nuclear power generation to be stepped up The government is drawing up a comprehensive plan for the next 15 to 20 years, to augment investment in nuclear power generation. A budgetary allocation up to Rs 3,000 crore per annum together, with public sector investments, will be leveraged to facilitate the required investment. DBT pilot project for fertiliser sector The Budget will introduce the Direct Benefits Transfer scheme named PAHAL in the fertiliser sector, building upon the success of a similar scheme for cooking gas subsidies. A project will be introduced in a few districts to improve service delivery to farmers. 300,000 fair price shops to be automated The Budget provides for implementing projects to introduce automation facilities in 300,000 out of the 535,000 Fair Price Shops (FPS) across the country by March 2017. This is part of the initiatives aimed at ensuring public money reaches the poor and the deserving without any leakage. Rs 25,000 crore for recapitalisation of govt banks To support banks and also to support credit growth, the Budget has allocated Rs 25,000 crore for recapitalisation of public sector banks (PSBs). To ensure that PSBs are strong and competitive, the Banks Board Bureau will be operationalised a roadmap for their consolidation spelt out. Govt to use Aadhaar for targeted subsidies The government will introduce a Bill for Targeted Delivery of Financial and Other Subsidies, Benefits and Services by using the Aadhaar framework. The Bill will be introduced in the current session of Parliament. A social security platform will be developed using Aadhaar, to accurately target beneficiaries. Buffer stock of pulses to be created The Budget provides Rs 900 crore for a Price Stabilisation Fund to help create a buffer stock of pulses through procurement at market price and the Minimum Support Price. This is part of efforts to ensure monitoring of prices of essential commodities where an abrupt increase in prices has become a problem. Coming soon, Bankruptcy Code for financial firms A comprehensive Code on Resolution of Financial Firms will be introduced as a Bill in Parliament in 2016-17. This Code will provide a specialised resolution mechanism to deal with bankruptcy situations in banks, insurance companies and financial sector entities. 100% FDI in marketing of food products The Budget provides for 100 per cent Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) through the FIPB route in marketing of food products produced and manufactured in India. This will benefit farmers, and give impetus to the food processing industry. Currently, farmers don't get the right prices for their produce. Port capacity to be ramped up, Rs 800-cr allocated To ramp up capacity creation in ports sector, the Budget has provided Rs 800 crore to expedite the National Waterways Project, the Sagarmala project and development of new ports on both the eastern and the western coasts. This is part of the effort to modernise ports and increase capacity. Presumptive tax threshold limit increased The Budget has amended the provisions of section 44AD of the Income tax Act, to increase the threshold limit of presumptive taxation from Rs 1 crore to Rs 2 crore. It also proposes to provide that if the taxpayer opts for the presumptive taxation scheme, he has to remain in that scheme for five years. Soil Health Card scheme expanded to 140 mn farms The Budget has provided for coverage of all 140 million farm holdings in the Soil Health Card scheme. Under the scheme, farmers get information about nutrient levels in the soil and can make judicious use of fertilisers. The National Project on Soil Health and Fertility gets a sum of Rs 368 crore. e-Sahyog pilot project to be expanded The income-tax department will expand the 'e-Sahyog' pilot project to reduce compliance costs, especially for small taxpayers. The aim is to provide an online mechanism to resolve mismatches in income-tax returns, without requiring taxpayers to visit departmental offices. The government on Monday announced a new initiative to provide cooking gas to women members of BPL families with state support."I have set aside a sum of Rs 2,000 crore in Union 2016 to meet the initial cost of providing these LPG connections," finance minister Arun Jaitley said. The scheme will free the women in rural areas from the curse of smoke while cooking. It will also reduce the time spent on cooking. Christened Ujjwala, the scheme provides a financial support of Rs 1600 for each LPG connection to the BPL households. The identification of eligible BPL families, as proposed in the for 2016-17, will be made in consultation with the State Terming the announcement as historic, Shri Dharmendra Pradhan, Hon'ble Minister of State (I/C) Petroleum and Natural Gas said the Scheme Ujjwala will not only have immense health benefits for the women and their children by providing a clean cooking fuel, but also provide significant ecological dividends. According to WHO estimates, about 5 lakh women die in India due to unclean cooking fuels. Most of these premature deaths are due to non-communicable diseases such as heart disease, stroke, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and lung cancer. While providing the new connections to BPL households, priorities would be given to the uncovered States and pockets, particularly in the Eastern region of the country. This will be done in consonance with the vision of Hon'ble Prime Minister for development of Eastern India. Jaitley said, "Women of India have faced the curse of smoke during the process of cooking. According to experts having an open fire in the kitchen is like burning 400 cigarettes an hour. The time has come to remedy this situation." This will benefit about 1 crore 50 lakh households below the poverty line in 2016-17. The scheme will go on for 2 years and will cover 5 crore BPL households. "The scheme will also generate employment for the youth in rural areas as they join the supply chain," the finance minister said. Jaitley added that as part of India's drive towards self-sufficiency, the Government is considering to incentivise gas production from deep-water, ultra deep-water and high pressure-high temperature areas, which are presently not exploited on account of higher cost and higher risks. "A proposal is under consideration for new discoveries and areas which are yet to commence production, first, to provide calibrated marketing freedom; and second, to do so at a pre-determined ceiling price to be discovered on the principle of landed price of alternative fuels." Last August Dharmendra Pradhan, Minister for Oil and Natural Gas had said that the ministry of petroleum and natural gas is working on a formula for premium on gas prices. "Pricing of gas is a big challenge in India. When we declared the last pricing formula, there we have committed to give additional premium. Gas which is produced in difficult areas (ultra-deep water and deep water) will get the premium. We will be publishing the premium formula shortly." Premium would be given on new discoveries. The finance minister has capped employers' contribution to provident fund at Rs 1.5 lakh a year. Whatever an employer contributes beyond this limit will be subject to tax in the hands of the employee. Parizad Sirwalla, partner and head of global mobility services-tax, KPMG India, said: "The employer's contribution to EPF forms a part of the cost to company (CTC). And, it is mandatory that the employer contributes 12 per cent of the basic pay towards the EPF.". Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 Say, a person earns Rs 20 lakh as basic pay. The employer will need to contribute Rs 2.4 lakh (12 per cent) to EPF. The new norms state that a contribution more than Rs 1.5 lakh will be taxed. This means, the employee will need to pay tax on Rs 90,000 (Rs 2.4 lakh-Rs 1.5 lakh). Until now, there was no tax on employer's contribution. The government has also increased the tax exemption on employer contribution to the superannuation scheme. Contribution of up to Rs 1 lakh was exempted but this has been changed to Rs 1.5 lakh. In an employee's superannuation scheme, the employer maintains a superannuation fund and regularly contributes to it. This pool can be used to make pension payments to retired employees. Tax experts said the step would bring all retirement schemes on a par. The announcement by the Finance Minister that an additional tax deduction of Rs 50,000 will be available to first-time buyers will bring cheer to those contemplating their first house purchase. The benefit comes with a few pre-conditions, however. The cost of the house shouldnt exceed Rs 50 lakh and the value of the loan shouldnt exceed Rs 35 lakh. This added deduction may not benefit housebuyers in cities like Mumbai and Delhi, given the high prices there. The first-time buyer living in smaller cities stands to benefit more from it, says Vishal Dhawan, chief financial planner, Plan Ahead Wealth Advisors. Investors in various tax brackets will save around Rs 5,000-15,000 owing to this enhanced benefit. For those who dont own a house and also dont have a House Rent Allowance (HRA) component in their salary, the deduction available to them under Section 80GG has been hiked from Rs 24,000 to Rs 60,000. People will save tax in the range of Rs 6,000-18,000 on this provision now. This hike in deduction will also benefit the self-employed. Now that the deduction has been hiked, more people are likely to claim it. Earlier, a lot of people simply ignored it, say tax experts.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 The removal of dividend distribution tax on real estate investment trusts (REITs) will go a long way towards making this structure a reality in India. DDT was a major impediment. With it being removed, REITs do look like coming closer to reality, says Anshuman Magazine, CMD, CBRE South Asia. Once REITs become operational, small investors will be able to invest in commercial real estate with only a small corpus. REITs will allow them to diversify their portfolio, and benefit from the low correlation that real estate has with equities. Those looking for steady dividend income may also investin REITs. Another positive in the budget, according to Ankur Kapur, founder, Ankur Kapur Advisory, is the news that the government will stick to the 3.5 per cent fiscal deficit target. This may allow the RBI to cut rates, which may result in home loan rates softening, provided banks pass on the benefits. Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modi, given his penchant for abbreviations, might have liked to put it as the new GPS (gas, power, sadak) or compass of his government's policies and programmes in preparation for the 2019 Lok Sabha elections. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley's speech suggests that the Modi has initiated its re-election strategy a couple of years early, promising gas connections to all below-poverty-line families, power to all un-electrified villages, and sadak or road connectivity to all villages by 2018-19. Lest there were any doubts about his government's agenda for the next three years, the PM departed from tradition to give a live broadcast to the nation in the afternoon. He said: "This is pro-village, pro-poor and pro-farmerThere will be a big change in the lives of the common people." Indications that the Modi was preparing a leftward shift were in evidence for nearly a year, or at least ever since early 2015 when Congress Vice-President Rahul Gandhi famously termed it as 'suit-boot ki sarkar'.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 In April 2015, with his barely a year in office and his party recovering from the thrashing in the Delhi Assembly polls, Prime Minister Modi told the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) National Executive in Bengaluru that henceforth his government was to be guided by 'Antyodaya'. Jaitley's had little for women of the country or for the social sector but announced several schemes for the youth, particularly Dalit youth. The government has been severely criticised after the suicide of University of Hyderabad Dalit PhD scholar Rohith Vemula, and needs to correct its image among Dalits, with the crucial Uttar Pradesh Assembly polls barely a year away. "What about Rohith Vemula?" piped in an Opposition member as Jaitley rattled out schemes for Dalits. Senior ministers were asked to engage with the media to explain the Budget. Former Finance Minister P Chidambaram of the Congress criticised the Budget for no mention of exports despite 14 successive months of negative growth. He said the government had done little to reduce agrarian distress by not promising any hike in minimum support price for crops. Middle class not ignored: Minister A senior minister termed the Budget as an anti-chartered-accountant Budget. The minister also claimed that the Budget, apart from its focus on farmers and the poor, also had much for the ruling partys core support base of traders, small shopkeepers, professionals and lower middle classes. The finance minister said that just as shopping malls remain open all seven days of the week, so can small and medium shops. He also reduced the tax burden on individuals with income not exceeding Rs 5 lakh a year, which will benefit over 20 million taxpayers. In a big tax break, the House Rent Allowance (HRA) deduction was increased from Rs 24,000 to Rs 60,000 a year. There were also tax concessions to medium and small enterprises. The turnover for presumptive tax scheme was increased to Rs 2 crore. It was also extended to professionals with gross receipts of Rs 50 lakh, with the presumption of profit being 50 per cent of gross receipts. The push for construction of small houses and tax deduction on home loans of up to Rs 35 lakh is likely to help the real estate sector. Also, the Budget has tax breaks for start-ups. A proposal to change the Motor Vehicles Act to allow private operators in public transport will be a job generator and entrepreneurial opportunity for thousands. Multinationals such as Vodafone, Shell and Cairn face hefty retrospective tax bills from the Indian government and some of them are likely to take the offer of settlement made by the Indian government in the today, top corporate lawyers said today. The multinationals stand to gain due to two reasons: One, the Indian government has asked the companies to pay only the tax and has offered to withdraw the interest and penalty component. Second, with the Indian currency losing value against the US dollar and the British pound, the actual payout from the foreign firms would be lesser by another 20 per cent.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 Citing an example, a tax lawyer said when Vodafone was slapped with a Rs 10,000 crore tax bill, the Indian currency was around Rs 80 to a pound but now the rupee has depreciated to Rs 100 to a pound which has bought its tax bill down. For example, Vodafone's tax bill in British currency has come down from 1.25 billion pounds to around one billion pounds, a tax lawyer advising one of the MNCs said, asking not to be quoted. An official Vodafone statement said they are "studying the proposal , while continuing to seek resolution of this matter through international arbitration." The matter is currently under arbitration. The company claimed it has always maintained that there was no tax to pay at the time it completed its acquisition of Hutchison's business in 2007. It asserted that this view was upheld unanimously by the Supreme Court of India in January 2012, and that Vodafone was the acquirer in the transaction and made no capital gain whatsoever. Given the clarity of the Indian law in force in 2007, there was no legal basis to withhold tax. These companies are likely to settle the cases not because they think the scheme is fair but because they are tired of litigation in India and want to go ahead with their lives, said he. In many cases, the amount of interest and penalty is now more than the tax amount itself. This (offer) can help restore confidence of international investors and would be a serious statement of commitment to reduce litigation and conveying a message that we have a tax regime that listens. This will help us bury the ghost of retrospective amendments which have tarnished Indias image with global investors, said Suresh Surana, founder of RSM Astute Consulting Group. Vodafone is already engaged in arbitration with the government of India in the case of a taxation claim for a transaction the company completed in 2007, in which it bought out Hutchison's 67 per cent stake in its telecom joint venture in India for about $11 billion. As the deal was signed abroad, Hutchison did not pay any tax. The Indian income tax department later asked Vodafone to pay the tax. Vodafone moved the Supreme Court and won the case but the Indian government came out with a retrospective tax legislation which taxed all such transactions signed earlier. After many of these MNCs including Shell, Cairn PLC were slapped with notices, they moved the courts. Shell later won a reprieve from the Bombay High Court. What is the best thing about the It is pro-poor. There is an effort to allocate more resources to deal with the agrarian crisis. I am also in favour of digital literacy, road connectivity, electricity, and housing schemes in rural areas.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 . . The worst? The opportunity of introducing industry-friendly initiatives to reduce the cost of running businesses is missing. Will it lead to acchhe din for the common man? There should have been a tax framework that puts greater disposable income in the hands of consumers. Will BJP gain politically from the Modi's image as a supporter of big business has been there. This has changed that. If you were finance minister, what would you change? I would announce reforms that make India more business-friendly, hacking away at obstructive laws. Neil Nitin Mukesh Actor From promoting digital literacy to digitising various functions, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, in his third Union Budget, took various steps to make Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Digital India' dream a reality. The has set aside Rs 2,059 crore for Digital India Programme - e-learning, e-panchayat and land records modernisation. The FM allocated Rs 24,543.48 crore to ministry of telecommunication and information technology.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 Jaitley allocated Rs 150 crore for modernisation of land records. "Modernisation of land records is critical for dispute-free titles. The National Land Record Modernisation Programme has been revamped under the Digital India initiative," he said. The will also introduce a Bill for targeted-delivery of financial and other subsidies, benefits and services by using the Aadhaar framework. The Bill will be introduced in the current session of the Parliament. The Aadhaar number or authentication shall not, however, confer any right of citizenship or domicile. A social security platform will be developed using Aadhaar to accurately target beneficiaries. Nandan Nilekani, former chairman of Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI), and co-founder of Infosys said it is good that the government is bringing in the statutory support for Aadhaar. "If you look at the fine print, you will find that many of the applications they are proposing will all use Aadhaar. It is vindication of what has been done. They are extending Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) and from LPG to fertiliser, and then they are going to automate 300,000 public distribution system (PDS) outlets which will again use Aadhaar-based authentication," Nilekani said. Also, the government is planning to go ahead with its digital literacy campaign under two schemes. "We have already approved two schemes to promote digital literacy - National Digital Literacy Mission; and Digital Saksharta Abhiyan (DISHA). We now plan to launch a new Digital Literacy Mission Scheme for rural India to cover around 60 million additional households within the next three years. Details of this scheme will be spelt out separately," said Jaitley. According to the government, of the 168 million rural households as many as 120 million do not have computers and are unlikely to have digitally literate persons. The government also plans to digitise the income tax (I-T) department to keep a track on tax evaders. A pilot was run in 2015-16 for e-assessment to obviate the requirement for tax payers to visit income-tax offices. The government proposes to expand the scope of e-assessments to all assessees in seven mega cities in the coming years. The cases selected, will be scrutinised in e-environment and there will be no face-to-face contact of I-T department. I-T department will also fully expand the pilot initiative of 'e-Sahyog' with a view to reduce compliance cost, especially for small taxpayers. The objective of the 'e-Sahyog' pilot project is to provide an online mechanism to resolve mismatches in income tax returns, without requiring taxpayers to attend the income tax office. The government is also planning to set up a Digital Depository for academic certificates on the pattern of Securities Depository. The move will not only help in getting the certificates authenticated in a time-bound manner by the employer or respective educational institutes which normally take 15 days to two months currently, but also help in weeding out fake certificates. The most significant element of the subsidy package in 2016-17 is the linkage sought to be established between delivery of subsidies and the roll out of Aadhaar. For years, field-level studies have used Aadhaar-based identification of subsidy recipients to show how use of the identification system makes targeting of the benefits better. But, both the United Progressive Alliance and the National Democratic Alliance governments were hamstrung, as the Supreme Court had held that lack of Aadhaar could not be used as a reason to deny support to anyone and instead had to be voluntary. The court's concern was based on the plea that the nationwide identity platform violated citizens' right to privacy.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 . . On Monday, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley sought to break that equation. In his speech, he said: "We'll introduce a Bill for targeted delivery of financial and other subsidies, benefits and services by using the Aadhaar framework. The Bill will be introduced in the current session of Parliament." (BENEVOLENT STATE) According to Jaitley, the Bill will be a transformative piece of legislation, since it will benefit the poor and the vulnerable. Pending those reforms, the government's Bill on subsidies, though declining, is unlikely to shrink. Consequently, the tab for all the major ones - food, fertiliser and petroleum - shows a decline in Budget estimates by 4.17 per cent in 2016-17, year-on-year but beyond that, there is little more to get excited about them. Fertiliser subsidy for the next financial year is, for instance, only Rs 2,437 crore less than the revised estimate for the current year. The action now is in the petroleum sector. The will offer cooking gas subsidy for all below-poverty-line families and expects to cover over 10 million families in 2016-17. This is a significant initiative but was already launched by petroleum minister Dharmendra Pradhan this year in January. Cess pool to finance Centre More than tax, cess occupied centrestage in the Budget. The finance minister has introduced two cesses, doubled the rate on a third, cut the rate on a fourth and eliminated 13 others - the largest ever work on this levy in any Budget. "There is an advantage in levying cess for central finances, as these do not form part of the divisible pool with states," said D K Srivastava, member of the 12th Finance Commission and a consultant with E&Y. The Krishi Kalyan Cess, at 0.5 per cent on all taxable services, will finance the agriculture sector. The Centre expects to earn Rs 5,000 crore from this, while the Clean Environment Cess, the renamed clean energy cess, will fetch Rs 26,148 crore. Arun Jaitley also introduced an infrastructure cess of one per cent on small cars which run on petrol, LPG and CNG; 2.5 per cent on diesel cars of a certain capacity and four per cent on vehicles with higher engine capacity and SUVs. These would garner Rs 3,000 crore. The minister expected the cess to help inhibit people from investing in personal transport. Together, these would provide a Rs 34,148-crore cushion to the minister. But, in a salutary measure, the minister also wanted to abolish 13 cesses, levied by various ministries but none of which give the government even Rs 50 crore a year. His final cess action has been to reduce the rate of Oil Industries Development Cess on domestically produced crude oil to 20 per cent ad valorem, from Rs 4,000 now. The Union Budget 2016-17 turned out to be a damp squib for banks as the public sector lenders, weighed down by capital-eroding bad debts on their books, did not get any capital injection beyond Rs 25,000 crore announced last year. The government, however, gave a push to consolidation of public sector banks. Finance Minister (FM) Arun Jaitley said the government has started the process of transforming IDBI Bank and will look at bringing down its stake in the bank below 50 per cent, from 80.16 per cent now.. Read our full coverage on Union Budget 2016 The immediate priority, however, is to strengthen banks' balance sheets. "Our public sector banks will have to be strong and competitive," Jaitley said in his speech, adding "the Bank Board Bureau will be operationalised during 2016-17 and a roadmap for consolidation of public sector banks will be spelt out." Consolidation will not be an "alternative for improving banks' balance sheets," Jaitley clarified in a televised meeting with the editors. Later in the evening, in his interaction with the press, the FM said the government was committed to bring down its stake in public sector banks to 52 per cent, but not before strengthening their balance sheets. "Our immediate agenda is to strengthen the banks," Jaitley said, adding, the capitalisation number quoted in the Budget may not be the final one. The process of transformation of IDBI Bank has already started and "government will take it forward and also consider the option of reducing its stake to below 50 per cent," Jaitley said. Responding to the government's intent of reducing its stake below 50 per cent, B K Batra, deputy managing director of IDBI Bank said the move, whenever it takes place, will provide greater flexibility to the bank in its operations. Earlier, government's stake in the bank had dipped below 60 per cent, creating rigidity in raising capital. Because of this, the government had to first infuse capital in the bank to create some room for raising capital from others, Batra explained. He said the latest proposal would free the lender from any such constraints. But IDBI could be the easiest and obvious target for bank privatisation. It is established under the Companies Act and a privatisation proposal need not be moved in the Parliament. "What is feasible for IDBI may not be feasible for other banks," said Ananda Bhoumik, senior director, India Ratings and Research. The analyst community was largely expecting the government to propose higher capital infusion for public sector banks, but that did not happen. The proposed Rs 25,000 crore infusion is part of the planned recapitalisation that the government announced last year, under its 'Indradhanush' programme. As per this plan, the government will invest Rs 70,000 crore, in phases, in public sector banks. It has already invested Rs 19,950 crore in 13 public sector banks. Hence, the Budget didn't offer anything new on recapitalisation front except Jaitley's assurance that the government stands "solidly behind these banks" and, if needed, would invest more. Analysts were not assured though. "The support provided by the Union Budget was very inadequate," said Vaibhav Agrawal, head of research at Angel Broking Ltd. "Overall, there was nothing much to address the stressed assets of public sector banks. Inadequate capital support would mean that the banks would have to be dragged on and provide for bad debts from their own P&L (profit and loss account) and they won't be able to lend much," Agrawal said. To help a faster resolution of stressed assets, the finance minister said the debt recovery tribunals will be strengthened, and the government will computerise processing of court cases to improve the existing infrastructure. The government will also try and push for the passage of Insolvency and Bankruptcy law, Jaitley said in his speech. Apart from the resolution mechanism for companies, a comprehensive Code on Resolution of Financial Firms will be introduced as a Bill in the Parliament during 2016-17. This Code will provide a specialised resolution mechanism to deal with bankruptcy situation in banks, insurance companies and financial sector entities. Budget 2016 to achieve fiscal deficit target, focus on agriculture & rural economy The total expenditure in the Budget for 2016-17 has been projected at Rs 19.78 lakh crore, consisting of Rs 5.50 lakh crore under Plan and Rs 14.28 lakh crore under Non-Plan The total expenditure in the Budget for 2016-17 has been projected at Rs 19.78 lakh crore, consisting of Rs 5.50 lakh crore under Plan and Rs 14.28 lakh crore under Non-Plan Finance Minister Arun Jaitley presented budget 2016-17 with an aim to give boost to agriculture, rural economy and employment generation. The total expenditure in the budget for 2016-17 has been projected at Rs 19.78 lakh crore, consisting of Rs 5.50 lakh crore under Plan and Rs 14.28 lakh crore under Non-Plan. Major focus on agriculture and farmers welfare, massive mission to provide LPG connection to poor households, a new health protection scheme, increased outlay for infrastructure, Rs 2.87 lakh crore grant in aid to gram panchayats and municipalities, setting up of 1500 multi skill training institutes and incentives for jobs creation are major highlights of the budget. Announcing a number of new schemes and increasing the allocation in various sectors Jaitley underlined that the Government is firm on its course towards fiscal consolidation without compromising on its development agenda. He said 3.5 percent fiscal deficit is targeted for FY 2016- 17. The financial years 2015-16 and 2016-17 have been and will be extremely challenging for Government expenditure. The next financial year will cast an additional burden on account of the recommendations of the 7th Central Pay Commission and the implementation of Defence OROP. Stating that the Government has to prioritise its expenditure, Jaitley said the Government wants to enhance expenditure in the farm and rural sector, the social sector, the infrastructure sector and provide for recapitalisation of the banks. The Finance Minister said that the government will undertake three major schemes to help the weaker sections. While it has already launched Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana, this budget has proposed a health insurance scheme aimed at protecting one-third of Indias population against hospitalisation expenditure and a new initiative to ensure that the BPL families are provided with a cooking gas connection, supported by a government subsidy. The government will undertake significant reforms such as the enactment of a law to ensure that all government benefits are conferred upon persons who deserve it, by giving a statutory backing to the AADHAR platform. He added that significant changes will be brought in the legislative framework relating to the transport sector so as to free it from constraints and restrictions. Other important reforms, the Finance Minister announced included incentivising gas discovery and exploration by providing calibrated marketing freedom; enactment of a comprehensive law to deal with resolution of financial firms; providing legal framework for dispute resolution in PPP projects and public utility contracts; undertaking important banking sector reforms and public listing of general insurance companies and undertaking significant changes in FDI policy. The Finance Minister said the agenda for the next year will be to Transform India in this direction. He highlighted that the budget proposals are built on this transformative agenda with nine distinct pillars which include: agriculture and farmers welfare; rural sector; social sector including healthcare; education, skills and job creation; infrastructure and investment; financial sector reforms; governance and ease of doing business; fiscal discipline and tax reforms. Regarding rural sector, Jaitley announced that a sum of Rs 2.87 lakh crore will be given as grant in aid to gram panchayats and municipalities. It will translate to an average assistance of over Rs 80 lakh per gram panchayat and over Rs 21 crore per urban local body. In the area of education, the Finance Minister said allocation under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan will be increased and a Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) will be set up with initial capital base of Rs 1,000 crore. Laying special emphasis on infrastructure, budget has allocated Rs 55,000 crore for roads and highways which will be further topped up by additional Rs 15,000 crore to be raised by NHAI through bonds. The total investment in the road sector including PMGSY allocation would be 97,000 crore during 2016-17. He said together with the capital expenditure of the Railways, the total outlay on roads and railways will be Rs 2,18,000 crore. The Government will enact necessary amendments in the Motor Vehicles Act and open up the road transport sector in the passenger segment. In the power sector, he said the government is drawing up a comprehensive plan, spanning next 15 to 20 years to augment the investment in nuclear power generation. To augment infrastructure spending further, the government will permit mobilization of additional finances to the extent of Rs 31,300 crore by NHAI, PFC, REC, IREDA, NABARD and Inland Water Authority through raising of Bonds. The Minister announced reforms in FDI policy in the areas of insurance and pension, asset reconstruction companies, stock exchanges etc. He said 100 percent FDI will be allowed through FIPB route in marketing of food products produced and manufactured in India. Expressing concern over problem of stressed assets in public sector banks, the Minister said to support the banks, an allocation of Rs 25,000 crore is being proposed towards recapitalisation of public sector banks. On the fiscal situation in the country the Minister said the fiscal deficit in RE 2015-16 and BE 2016-17 have been retained at 3.9 percent and 3.5 percent of GDP respectively. He added a redeeming feature of this years budget is that the revenue deficit target has been improved upon from 2.8 percent to 2.5 percent of GDP in RE 2015-16. BS B2B Bureau FILE PHOTO SALT LAKE CITY (AP) Private landowners can keep anglers out of streams that flow through their properties as the states high court considers an appeal of a judges decision to open the areas to the public. State Judge Derek Pullan nullified the 2010 Utah Public Waters Access Act on Nov. 4, opening access to miles of trout streams. A stay was granted Wednesday amid an appeal by VR Associates, which owns Victory Ranch on the Provo River, the Salt Lake Tribune reported (http://bit.ly/1pgfVeF). Nathan Thomas, a lawyer for VR Associates, wrote in a court filing that the ruling deprives property rights. VRA, other private landowners, the state, and the recreating public are all harmed through a deprivation of their property rights, the right to the benefit of duly enacted legislation, and ambiguity as to the scope of the publics rights. Utah Stream Access Coalition has spent five years fighting the Utah Public Waters Access Act. The group said it was disappointed by the stay, but encouraged anglers to follow it. The group said the recent ruling was not surprising, as the court can err on the side of caution in cases that would mean major changes. Respect private property and obey all No Trespassing signs. Our actions must continue to be above board, the coalition posted on social media. We remain confident in our legal arguments before the court, and we will continue to pursue all means possible to restore and preserve access to Utahs public rivers and streams. A 14-year-old boy died Sunday morning after being injured in an auto-pedestrian accident in Willard, Saturday night around 7 p.m. Willard Police Chief Jean Loveland said Braxton Phetsysouk was attempting to cross the street near 850 North Main when he was struck by a car. He was airlifted to Primary Childrens Medical Center where he later passed away from his injuries. The car was driven by 18-year-old Bronson Beckstrand. Loveland said the case is under investigation but appears to be an accident. There was no crosswalk in the area and not well lit. Officers from the Willard City Police Department were assisted by troopers from the Utah Highway Patrol who helped with traffic control and diagramming the accident scene.

will@cvradio.com The importance of Turkeys downing of a Russian aircraft and the current Russian-Turkish confrontation is not only connected to the crisis in Syria; it could become a trigger for escalation between Russia and NATO. Since the break-up of the Soviet Union and NATOs expansion eastward toward the Russian border, Russia has seen NATO as a major security threat to itself and its geostrategic space. Turkey is an important member of NATO, and 2016 is an election year in Washington. This serves as a window of opportunity for President Putin, who can take advantage of tensions with Turkey to undermine NATOs standing. BACKGROUND: The downing of the Sukhoi aircraft and the resulting Russian sanctions on Turkey have heightened tensions between the two countries, tensions that were already rising due to the Syrian crisis and Moscows total support of the Assad regime from the beginning of the civil war in that country. Moscows is in direct contrast to Turkish policy, which calls for a change in the Syrian leadership, and has supported a variety of Sunni movements fighting toward that end. The tensions between these two countries rose after Russias direct military intervention, including its use of military force in support of the Assad regime and the forces loyal to him. Russian military activity focuses on aerial attacks on forces opposed to Assad and ISIS. The opposition forces, supported by Turkey, constitute a target for Russian air attacks, increasing bilateral tensions. All this provides the backdrop for the downing of the Russian combat aircraft. The initial Russian reaction to this incident was the placing of economic sanctions on Turkey, including trade and tourism. As a result of the downing of the plane, Turkey, an important member of NATO, requested NATO support. At an emergency meeting, NATO accepted a resolution expressing support for Turkey and declaring its support for Turkish territorial integrity. At this point, this confrontation deviated from being bilateral and became a confrontation between Russia and NATO. Several days later NATO decided to accept Montenegro during this coming year, which increased Russian concern over NATOs eastward enlargement, and added to the growing tensions. Warning shots fired by a Russian battleship at a Turkish vessel in the Aegean Sea about three weeks after the Sukhoi incident is an expression of this continuing anxiety. The Russian announcement that Montenegro should hold a referendum as to joining NATO is an additional sign of growing tensions between Russia and NATO. Since Turkey is a member of NATO, its growing conflict with Russia has implications regarding Russias ongoing confrontation with NATO and the U.S. over Ukraine. The development is only one component of this geostrategic confrontation. The Turkish incident intensified the Russian-NATO standoff in Ukraine, the source of which was Ukraines choice to seek an Association Agreement with the EU. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko doubled down on this westward orientation on the eve of the New Year, with a decree allowing Ukrainian forces to take part in military exercise with NATO forces on Ukrainian territory. This presidential decree is an expression of the Ukrainian military doctrine, as updated and ratified in February 2015. According to this doctrine, Ukraine considers Russia its prime enemy and intends to take steps to further its acceptance into NATO. IMPLICATIONS: The growing tension between Russia and Turkey in Syria, and the Turkish tendency to broaden the sphere of its response to include support for the Tatar population on the Crimean peninsula, adds an additional factor to the conflict between Russia and NATO, as it has been developing over the past two years on Ukrainian soil. All of this has heightened the confrontation between Russia and NATO. In a document updating the security doctrine signed by President Putin late last year, it is stated that the recent establishment of NATO military capabilities near the borders of Russia constitutes a violation of international norms and laws. In this document, an updated version of the 2009 doctrine, the U.S. and NATO are clearly named as a threat to Russia for the first time. By contrast, Ukrainian Prime Minister Arseny Yatsenyuk has also stated Ukrainian aspirations to join NATO and the EU, twin objectives that form the basis of his countrys central security reforms. Since the break-up of the Soviet Union, NATO has been considered the major threat to the integrity of the Russian Federation, from a security standpoint. NATO is also seen as threatening Russias hegemony in its crucial geostrategic space. President Putin, in 2005, pointed out that the break-up of the Soviet Union was the greatest geopolitical disaster of the twentieth century. NATOs enlargement eastward and the inclusion of states formerly under Russian hegemony threatened Russias standing in her own backyard as well as its role as a regional superpower. According to Putin, Russias global status is threatened as well. NATO, which included sixteen countries before the break-up of the USSR has more than doubled in size since then. Twelve additional countries have joined its ranks, most of which were part of the Soviet Union or, as members of the Warsaw pact, under its hegemony. As the Obama regime enters its last stretch in the White House, President Putin has a window of opportunity to bring about a significant geopolitical change, as part of the policy he has been acting on since he came to power, in order to challenge the reality following the break-up of the Soviet union. This will not be the first time President Putin has taken advantage of such a window. The war in the Caucasus in 2008 the Russian military invasion of Georgia was a formative event, in which Russia, for the first time since the break-up of the Soviet Union, used military force against a state which had previously been part of the USSR. Putin initiated this move in August 2008, about three months before the end of the Bush administration. While failing to unseat the Saakashvili government, the Russian initiative in Georgia was successful in a geopolitical sense. There was no meaningful American reaction, even though Georgia was Americas closest ally in the region, and at a critical stage in its dialogue with NATO. Thus, an unprecedented Russian invasion of a neighboring sovereign state took place while the U.S. was busy with its upcoming elections, creating a new geopolitical reality in the region. The tension between Russia and NATO, rising as a result of the RussianTurkish confrontation, may well bring about a Russian move and one that may not take place near Turkeys borders. Equally, it could happen in the Baltic region. This area is of great strategic importance to Russia, which finds the acceptance the Baltic states into NATO in 2009 difficult to accept. President Putin has referred to this more than once. The possibility of such a Russian reaction as a result of the confrontation with Turkey has been mentioned by an unofficial source. Such warnings, again coming at the end of an American presidents term, should not be ignored. CONCLUSIONS: The Russian-Turkish confrontation goes beyond the scope of the Syrian crisis and will have significant implications for Russias relations with NATO on the global scene. Russia is not deterred from an escalation of its confrontation with Turkey. To a certain extent, the downing of the Sukhoi played into Russias hands. As the confrontation worsens, it serves Russian interests and allows Russia to challenge NATOs standing and contain the organizations eastward enlargement. A presidential election year in the U.S. presents a window of opportunity to President Putin for such a strategic move. While failing to sustain its ally in power, Russia has achieved its short-term objectives in Ukraine. The annexation of Crimea and the creation of a secessionist area in eastern Ukraine have created conditions which Russia sees as enabling it to achieve its long-term goals in Ukraine, at the same time coming close to reaching an understanding with the U.S. over the future of the Syrian regime. If Russia succeeds in dealing with its economic distress, considering low oil prices, President Putin might find the time to challenge NATO on the Baltic scene or elsewhere, taking advantage of the 2016 window of opportunity. AUTHORS BIO: Dr. Avinoam Idan is a political geographer and a nonresident Senior Fellow with the Central Asia-Caucasus & Silk Road Studies Program, based in Washington DC. Prior to his academic career, he served in the Israeli Embassy in Moscow during the break-up of the Soviet Union. Image Attribution: www.telegraph.co.uk, accessed on Feb 28, 2016 SHARE CONTRIBUTED PHOTO Four threats discovered since Feb. 15 written on the wall of a girls restroom stall prompted full sweeps of Moody High School. By Beatriz Alvarado of the Caller-Times An 18-year-old Moody High School student was arrested Wednesday in connection to a series of written threats against the school, Corpus Christi ISD police chief Kirby Warnke said. The first of four threats was found Feb. 15 written on the wall of a girls' restroom stall. Each threat prompted full sweeps of the school and campus grounds. Police presence also was increased each time as a precaution. "We are taking every single threat seriously," school principal Sandra Clement said. "We will not be desensitized." Warnke said the student was tied to two of the threats against the school, but did not specify the dates. She was arrested on suspicion of terroristic threats. The Caller-Times typically does not identify people accused of misdemeanor crimes. Other threats were found Feb. 19, Wednesday and Thursday. Investigations into the other incidents is ongoing, Warnke said. Clement credits students and staff for volunteering to help police identify the student. She said some volunteered to monitor the restrooms and started a sign-in sheet to help narrow the time frame for investigators. "They don't like the disruption, they are starting to become the monitors," Clement said. "I love the empowerment that has happened with our kids." Twitter: @CallerBetty GABE HERNANDEZ/CALLER-TIMES Chef Dean Sprague from the Omni Corpus Christi Hotel prepares a Tunisian Barley Salad with the help of Chef Paula Szczepanek from Corpus Christi Independent School District during the Chef Move to Schools event Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, at Baker Middle School in Corpus Christi. SHARE GABE HERNANDEZ/CALLER-TIMES Chef Paula Szczepanek from Corpus Christi Independent School District adds cucumber to a Tunisian Barley Salad during the Chef Move to Schools event Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, at Baker Middle School in Corpus Christi. GABE HERNANDEZ/CALLER-TIMES Mark Ramirez tastes a Tunisian Barley Salad that was prepared by chefs to help educate students during the Chef Move to Schools event Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, at Baker Middle School in Corpus Christi. GABE HERNANDEZ/CALLER-TIMES Students taste a Tunisian Barley Salad that was prepared by chefs to help educate students during the Chef Move to Schools event Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, at Baker Middle School in Corpus Christi. GABE HERNANDEZ/CALLER-TIMES Chef Paula Szczepanek from Corpus Christi Independent School District talks about green beans as she helps prepare a Tunisian Barley Salad with Chef Dean Sprague during the Chef Move to Schools event Wednesday, Feb. 24, 2016, at Baker Middle School in Corpus Christi. By Beatriz Alvarado of the Caller-Times When Jody Houston took the helm as Corpus Christi ISD's food services director about 30 years ago, less than half the students in the district qualified for free and reduced lunch. Last year, that number was at nearly 70 percent, she said. Child hunger isn't taken lightly by Houston. She led efforts by her office to address the need. In August, the office helped facilitate free lunch for 32 of 59 district schools through a federal program. "The program has helped so many people. We are thrilled to be able to offer it," Houston said of the Community Eligibility Provision under the National School Lunch and School Breakfast Programs. The program eliminates the application portion of the process for schools to provide a student free lunch and breakfast. The aggressive pursuit to qualify the schools is among many nutrition efforts Houston's leadership is credited with. Because of her commitment to the livelihood of Corpus Christi children, she was selected as one of five 2016 School Nutrition Heroes by the nonprofit School Nutrition Foundation. She will receive the award during the School Nutrition Association's 44th Legislative Action Conference in Washington, D.C. this week. Recipients were nominated by peers and chosen by the nonprofit as professionals who have dedicated their lives to serving the needs of their school district and community. Houston had big shoes to fill when she took over the position in 1986, said Scott M. Lisk, CCISD executive director of support services. Her predecessor, Gertrude Applebaum, was the first food services director to centralize menu planning, purchasing, record control, and training. The district's central kitchen is named after Applebaum. "She's filled the shoes, and more," he said. Houston manages an $18 million annual budget and oversees about 350 employees. CCISD's Food Services department operates using federal and state money. Through Houston's leadership, the office has adopted nutrition programs for children proven to be beneficial. The district piloted a breakfast in the classroom program in 2008 and has since implemented free breakfast in the classroom at all CCISD elementary school classrooms, Houston said. The office also adopted first lady Michelle Obama's "Chefs Move to Schools" program, which calls for a partnership between a school and a professional chef in an effort to curb childhood obesity. Houston hired a chef to conduct cooking demonstrations at CCISD schools. Because nutrition is equally as important as good tasting food, Houston eats at the schools she services. She stays up to date with student demands through a food advisory team made up of high school students. Last year she started the first elementary level advisory team because she felt the office "wasn't reaching young students." "I just want to make sure I know what is being served to students," she said. Twitter: @CallerBetty Free breakfast and lunch is offered at: Allen ES Berlanga ES Calk ES Coles HS Crockett ES Cunningham MS Driscoll MS Evans ES Fannin ES Garcia ES Gibson ES Haas MS Hamlin MS Hicks ES Houston ES Kostoryz ES Los Encinos SES Martin MS Meadowbrook ES Menger ES Miller HS Montclair ES Moore ES Oak Park ES Shaw ES Smith ES South Park MS Student Support Center Travis ES Wilson ES Woodlawn ES Zavala ES SHARE By Natalia Contreras of the Caller-Times Texas Department of Public Safety officials identified a man who shot himself in the head at a gas station in George West. About 9 a.m. Friday troopers responded to several calls from witnesses who saw a man was acting strange at two gas stations including at Highway 37 and U.S. Highway 59, Sgt. Johnny Hernandez said. Brian Danis, 52, of Fayetteville, North Carolina, was seen buying several gas canisters and troopers in the area made contact with him at the Flying J, Hernandez said. The troopers asked Danis if he was OK and asked for identification. Shortly after, Danis ran away from the troopers and shot himself near the gas pump area, Hernandez said. Hernandez said the troopers did not notice Danis had a gun. Corpus Christi police bomb squad was called after troopers noticed several gas canisters inside Danis's vehicle. Hernandez said Sunday he did not know the man's motives and said Texas Rangers continue to investigate. Twitter: @CallerNatalia By Julie Garcia of the Caller-Times Longtime outdoors journalist David Sikes was honored in multiple categories by the Texas Outdoors Writers Association. He is the 2016 recipient of the L.A. Wilke Award, the association's highest honor, which is given for a person's body of work over time in outdoors communication. "The L.A. Wilke Award is given to members who have served (the association) and their profession with honor and distinction," a news release stated. Sikes began his career with the Caller-Times in 1997 and became the outdoors writer in 1998. He won first place for Outdoor Photography: People with "Florida Fling," which was published in June 2015. He also won first in the Newspaper Feature category for "Serendipitous," published in June. He won second place honors in Magazine Feature and Outdoor News Reporting and third place for Outdoor Fiction: Humor. He received an honorable mention in four categories, including Outdoor Photography: Wildlife, Outdoor Photography: Open, Outdoor Column/Opinion Writing, Outdoor Feature: Open. Two Cameroonian soldiers killed as troops seize arms and mines in border village during joint operation with Nigeria ADS Cameroon's army has killed 92 members of the Islamist militant group Boko Haram and freed 850 villagers in a joint operation with Nigerian forces, the country's government has said. The operation in the Nigerian village of Kumshe, close to the border with Cameroon, was conducted under the auspices of a multinational force fighting Boko Haram, according to the statement from Issa Tchiroma Bakary, Cameroon's communications minister. "Two Cameroonian soldiers were killed [during the operation] by an accidental mine explosion. Five other soldiers were wounded," Bakary said, adding that the army captured weapons and ammunition and found a centre for production of homemade mines. There was no immediate comment from Nigeria or independent confirmation of the operation or death toll. Boko Haram is seeking to carve out an emirate in north-eastern Nigeria and has staged a campaign of suicide and other attacks in Cameroon, Chad and Niger over the past year, including killing as many as 1,000 in Cameroon. The US military calls Boko Haram the most violent extremist group in the world. The group gained global notoriety for kidnapping 276 schoolgirls in Nigeria in 2014 and is thought to have killed more than 15,000 people over six years. ADS This is double the figure reported in July 2015, which the company attributed to a reflection of the high quality and penetration of its YouTube Creator network in the market. Viewership doubled despite the total number of creators in the network increasing from only 383 to 420 in the same period. Bani Tan, managing director of Thoughtful Thailand said the network is also seeing more older, more engaged viewers, especially amongst stay-at-home moms. This is helping our profile with advertisers and their agencies, he added. The company said that the broader demographic is helping it develop more specifically targeted campaigns in the beauty, food, automotive and electronics sectors in addition to its strengths in other categories. This quarter has seen LOreal, Sony, Shell, Caltex, Panasonic, Toyota and Canon join Thoughtfuls client roster. And leading local bank TMB has just signed up with Thoughtful to develop influencer-based communications for its consumer banking services. Raweewan Thairatananon The company has also recently appointed Raweewan Thairatananon, to the role of group sales director, effective immediately. Commenting on the appointment, Thoughtfuls EVP for international operations, Mark Ingrouille expressed excitement over the addition of such great talent to our organisation. Raweewan [Thairatananon] built the leading blogger network in Thailand over the last couple of years and to have her on-board now is fantastic, he added. Formerly country manager of Nuffnang Thailand, Thairatananon was responsible for the establishment and growth of the blogger networks operations. She also boasts experience in the food-marketing category, having previously worked at Nutrition Sc and the Eastland Food Corporation. In a recent whitepaper, The New Voice of the Female Consumer in Southeast Asia, the agency identified an increasing trend towards people choosing self-employment over a traditional working lifestyle. This trend was particularly true among women, with 36 percent of women across Southeast Asia, self-employed. In addition, the study found that 47 percent of all online women in SEA are sellers. This equates to 33 million women who opted in as a seller across Indonesia, Thailand and the Philippines in 2015. In Indonesia, 55 percent of online women are trading as merchants from their homes today. We can conclude that selling and not just buying through digital channels to supplement income has created a new socioeconomic profile due in part to the sheer scale of the activity, the paper stated. The implications of which will shift the paradigm for digital marketers as it pertains to ecommerce for this part of the world, which still supports a very traditional marketing landscape, it added. The study consisted of a 10-minute survey across the fieldwork period of August 18-28, 2015. Covering both buyers and sellers, 1,019 people across Indonesia (319), Thailand (350) and the Philippines (350) were interviewed. Speaking to Campaign Asia-Pacific, Ruth Stubbs, Asia Pacific CEO at iProspect, said the team set out to validate a hypothesis but uncovered a lot more. With the more surprising finidng being the fact that among those who had chosen to become wholly self-employed in these three markets, more than 50 percent were women. As an industry, we continue to be challenged to evolve marketing strategy to keep up with fragmentation of what was a core target audience of female household shoppers, Stubbs added. The general lack of research for Southeast Asia was actually the final trigger for us to look for ourselves. The research highlighted a new segment of women who are savvy and at the forefront of ecommerce in the sub-region, with digital convergence changing the shape of traditional roles and responsibilities for women. Stubbs added that the impact of urbanization is leading to women spending more and more time away from their homes and families, requiring new approaches to their primary role as a mother and caretaker. Yet, as an industry we are still communicating to her as though she still lives in the old world rather than as a social, connected and digitally influential entrepreneur, she said. Stubbs added that in 2016, the agency will be very much about redefining digital relationships with the hopes of helping brands reach consumers in more impactful ways. We understand that, with these women, content and technology can be drivers of the most powerful conversations in these communities, she said. This is a growing movement and one that cannot be ignored. Asked what tips there were for marketers and brands hoping to better engage with this segment, Stubbs said the research indicates that access to technology enabling tools that make selling easierpeer to peer networks and their image optimised interfaces, high mobile adoption, the low barrier to entry, payment convenience and a desire to work more flexibly around their family lifeis the big clue. If a brand wants to communicate with these women, use these channels, support and facilitate their ambitions and you will maximise your impact, she added. The report found that buyers more frequently access a greater variety of content verticals with specific relevance (versus general sites), particularly aggregators and social sites. They look for functionality that is easy to use and conveniently located. Facebook is included in 67 percent of preferences made by Indonesias buyers, who preferred social platforms. Lazada represents the most preferred buying platform among aggregators, providing store access to 80 percent of Indonesian buyers. Sellers similarly seek relevant content and quick and easy functionality that will resonate with potential customers. Reach and cost of access is critical, so they gravitate to more P2P sites as well as social platforms. The massive scale of ad fraud has been in the headlines recently, but while it needs to be treated seriously there is no reason to startle the horses too much, the panel concluded. Even though it is a problem, it is fixable, said James Sampson, vice-president and general manager, APAC, of DataXu. Bots are getting more sophisticated. People can build things that actually look like people. They browse, they click things, and they pause. That makes them harder to spot, but it can be done. Sampson was moderating a panel on Fraud and trust in programmatic buying, addressing a packed room in one of the summits afternoon discussion tracks. More and more is being transacted this way, so more and more is being measured," he said. "We can look at things that we never used to be able to see. Everybody is looking at this and taking it very seriously. Sam Ahmed, SVP and head of marketing for APAC, Middle East and Africa at MasterCard, said that while programmatic was in its infancy, credibility was crucial and the problem of ad fraud could damage the whole ecosystem. We cant lose credibility in this area for the business, he said. Although fraud is not "very prevalent", "It is bad for your businessall of us in the industry need to look out for fraud, he said. See all our Media360Summit coverage The panel of four agreed that while genuine, the risk of ad fraud was far outweighed by the savings and efficiencies that programmatic buying made possible. We want to do more with less money, said Seraphina Wong, executive director of global advertising and APAC head of communications and branding at UBS. Cost efficiency is the big agenda we are focussing on. Programmatic buying is still new and developing, she said, so the industry cant expect it to be completely good and completely useable immediately. However, she added that benchmarking was the key to judging how effective a programmatic campaign had been. If you go in like a robot, you come out like a robot, and you wont get the return you expected, she said. Wong said she was confident that her marketing was overwhelmingly being seen by genuine human eyeballs, partly because it was selectively targeted but also due to the engagement that it generated. You can see that if they are asking these sorts of questions, these are not robots," she said. "If they are leaving their numbers and requesting to be called back, then these are not robots. Lee Smith, APAC CEO at Omnicom Media Group's Annalect Group, said all parties needed to collaborate on the issue in order to neutralise the risk. This is an ecosystem problemits not something sitting just with publishers, just agencies or just brands, he said. There are opportunities for bad people to get involved in the process. However, the pace at which they are being dealt with outpaces the new problems, he said, adding that he felt poorly targeted advertising was a far more pressing concern for the industry. I buy groceries online and five minutes later I get an advert for the same things I just put in the basket, Smith said. That is not just annoying, it is also pretty amateur by the advertiser. L-R: Khoo, OConnell, Kikunaga, Toy, Huang Khoo, OConnell, Kikunaga, Toy, Huang This issue was dealt with in the subsequent session, Keeping a seat at the table: the power of data management infrastructure in an evolving world. Michelle Toy, head of marketing and communications at BNP Paribas Securities Services, took issue with the overused analogy that likens big data to teenage sexthat everyone talks about it but nobody does it or understands it properly. I think we are beyond that, she said. We are pretty much growing adults. For me, its about how do I speak in a way that my CFO is going to understand what I am talking about in order to even keep my budget flat for this year. He will want me to tell him how I am contributing to top-line growth, what are the sales leads that are being generated, and what is share of wallet that we are expanding for our top-20 customers. Then I work backwards to work out what kind of data do I need to be able to compile it, massage it and package it up to be able to present this kind of information, both quantitative and qualitative. In an ideal world, Toy said she would like to have a dashboard where everything is colour-coded red, yellow or green, and my CFO understands what that means. So long as my budget stays flat, that is absolutely great. Moderator Jordan Khoo, APAC vice-president at Sizmek, admitted that the standard of online advertising left much to be desired. I dont recall the last time I had a brand recollection from something I saw online. Why has creativity got lost in this new data-driven marketing strategy? he asked. Kevin Huang, co-founder, CEO and managing director of Pixels and Gravity4Inc, said that marketers were still trying to get their heads around programmatic buying, and with the emergence of big data they needed to decide what should be used and what should be ignored. Because it is in its infancy, a lot of clients have identified it as a performance channel, Huang said, adding that this made them adopt a very tactical approach. I think that creativity will change once marketers start thinking about it from a brand perspective. Joanna OConnell, chief marketing officer at MediaMath, said it was time to change the conversation from data to focus on the emotional connection with consumers. At the other side of the screen there is a human," she said. "Just think of your own experiences as someone on the other side of the ad: its boring, its annoying, its intrusive, its creepy, its irrelevant. Those are all bad experiences. We need to talk about what really good advertising can and should look like.Data can help. Technology helps. But it is only part of the equation. Mitsuru Kikunaga, group head of digital AirAsia, said marketers needed to learn to be more adventurous. Internally we are afraid of trying something new, he said. I encourage my marketing chiefs: Just test itto fail is OK. "Demography shapes reality. Having moved back to Bangkok six months ago, I have been talking to hosts of people about the market, the people and the world of consumption. The general discussion is around the "not so good" economy, "business is ok but growth is slow", "glad to see you back Dave, but why are you here at this poor time?" You get the drift. But among all that mild disappointment, what stands out about the people you might want to market to? Thailand is ageing Fast! While all the talk about ageing populations might be about Japan, Hong Kong and Taiwan being among the world's oldest populations, or Chinas coming tsunami of older people, few realise Thailand has been among the fastest-ageing countries in the world in the last decade. This year its population will start to shrink (probably) in part due to young women not having or putting off having what is increasingly a single child. But also as a result of an older generation living longer and wealthier. Life expectancy has increased by nearly one year every year for 25 years. Which means lots of very active 50- to 70-year-olds. The last six months has seen a lot of discussion in the media, in government and in market research about the growth of the older middle class in particular. The number of over-50s is growing while the number of under-20s is not. That growth is down to the better lifestyles, wealth and medicine availability among many other factors. And its an active older Thailand. Late last year, Intage shared research that showed that the over-50s were just about as likely to spend, shop, trial and use technology as those between 35 and 50. Not really surprising. If you have spent the last three decades working through the growth of the broad middle class here, you are just used to change, trial, new ideas and products. Intage points out the over-50s are socially connected online and off (and yes, heavy users of Line in particular). Want proof? Watch lunch time in the big glamour malls or the food floors in MBK or the myriad smaller eateries: Lots of people 50 or older with their faces in screens. Single women staying that way The inevitable discussion in so much of Asia is a real concern in Thailand. In less than 20 years, the number of children a Thai woman is likely to have has moved from over four to around twoless than is needed to replace the population. Whether that is a good or bad thing is another debate. The inevitable result of the wealth growth of those two decades has meant more young women are themselves single children or have fewer siblings, better education, better jobs, less financial pressure to marry from parents and more inclination to enjoy life. And shop. One big retailer told me that it sees the single-women market being as big as the active family (families with kids) market. And certainly this is not limited to the boom in Korean cosmetics. The man movement This article is part of the On The Ground: Thailand series Or as one government adviser quipped, "the stalled man movement". One reason that official offered to me for all those women staying single is the dearth of men interested in, well, women. Sure, Thailand has always seemed more open to diverse sexualities, but a lot of commentators are now discussing that maybe up to a quarter of men under 40 are not inclined to male/female traditional roles. Or as one jewellery store owner put it, Too many men not interested in ever having a wife, too many women giving up finding a man, so now I focus on tourists. The other 15 percent Which is a good thing to focus on, especially the 10 million Chinese tourists estimated to arrive this year. Yes that represents another 15 percent of the population. And they come to spend. Each Chinese tourist comes for an average of seven to 10 days and spends 4000 to 5000 baht a day (do the math). And they shop. Yes on luxury items, but the big growth is on everything from food to cosmetics, from the inevitable baby goods to cooking oils. As times toughen with local shoppers, retailers and brands are devising smart strategies aimed at these tourists. Heavy online and influencer campaigns in China itself are encouraging would-be tourists to buy the right brands when they get to Bangkok. In addition the Central Bangkok initiative being led by the Central retail group is clustering shopping around the area where Chinese tourists prefer to stay in mid-priced hotels surrounded by retail options. Dave McCaughan is thought leader and storyteller, Bibliosexual The win comes less than one month after the media agency took on the paint brands media planning and buying business. It now manages the complete paid-owned-earned media and digital brand assets for Nippon Paint. The scope-of-work covers social media, revamp and maintenance of multiple brand websites, digital creative development, SEO and UX audits. Alex Yoong, assistant general manager, group marketing at Nippon Paint Malaysia said the brand believes in serving its customers well at every touchpoint. Mindshare has demonstrated a great understanding of our consumers and their journeys, he added. Varun Channa, managing director of Mindshare Malaysia said the agency is committed to the growth of Nippon Paint through its capabilities in creative and content. Ogilvy Pride, already launched in the UK during June 2015, is both an internal initiative aiming to champion inclusion in the workplace, as well as a client-facing consultancy to help brands understand and tap into LGBT audiences. Marion McDonald, MD of strategy, planning and measurement at Ogilvy Public Relations Asia-Pacific, has been appointed as the Ogilvy Pride representative in Hong Kong. Adam OConor, CEO of Ogilvy & Mather Hong Kong, said the agency was seeing a shift in social attitudes towards the local LGBT community. Last months study by the Equal Opportunities Commission on the need for local legislation against LGBT discrimination is "a great step forward". The launch of Ogilvy Pride coincides with O&Ms sponsorship as global content partner for The Economists upcoming Pride & Prejudice conference held on 3 March in Hong Kong, London and New York at the same time. Sir Martin Sorrell, global CEO of WPP, will contribute to this discussion on economic and business costs of LGBT discrimination and the profitable opportunities that lie in overcoming it. Last year, WPP agency Wunderman also publicly sponsored a weeklong LGBT festival ShanghaiPride 2015 and created the 'Hold the hands of the one you love ()' campaign that encouraged same-sex and heterosexual individuals to simply hold hands. This is the first time an agency has formalised a unit specifically for LGBT groups in society. It's a natural fit for creative agencies to lead the commercial sector by celebrating and promoting LGBT diversity in the workplace," added McDonald. "Companies that can attract, nurture and retain LGBT talent to advance their business aims will draw ahead of their rivals in a tough labour market like Hong Kong that attracts a lot of international talent. The initiative is intended to drive programmatic planning and buying for the FMCG giant in the ASEAN region. Speaking to Campaign Asia-Pacific on the sidelines of the Media360Summit in Hong Kong last week, Rahul Welde, the company's VP, Media, described the project as a hybrid model. While the trading desk is proprietary, we think our current partner Mindshare is best equipped to kickstart it, he said. Its still early days, but so far we feel quite comfortable with this hybrid model. Welde said that the area of automated planning and buying is providing opportunities for both the industry in general and players like Unilever on two main fronts. The first is the ability to target better and to provide more relevant messaging to our consumers, he said. The second is the ability to buy significantly better across the board and make efficiencies work harderthat is what really led us to commence our journey with this trading desk. Mindshare and Unilever teams have been working together for the past few months to test and understand the available technology stacks and the right set of partners to power Ultra. The desk has been set up with a view to work with the best-of-breed technologies and capabilities. The setup also allows for constant experimentation and drives an agile way of integrating the technologies available. Delighted to launch ULTRA (Unilever Trading Desk) in Asia with @mindshare with multiple campaigns and countries. pic.twitter.com/qcwfG68LAu Rahul Welde (@RahulWelde) October 1, 2015 The desk had its soft launch in October last year, with Welde adding that it was important to be able to pilot a programme to iterate and improve upon. Before you scale up, its best to plunge into it in beta mode. Its a matter of understanding things better and iterate, he said. At our soft launch it started with a few campaigns in one market and today, were at multiple campaigns in multiple markets in a few different categories. Asked about what has been the most interesting discovery in the months since work began, Welde said that the one thing that struck him is the teams ability to move much faster. That ability is often underestimated, things are now happening at a literal press of a button and what really came to the fore during this was the ability to execute across countries in one go, he said. Much like how Netflix launched across 130 countries at CES this year with a push of a button, thats exactly the way this area of automation is going, and its quite interesting for us. Gowthaman Ragothaman, chief operating officer, Asia Pacific at Mindshare described Ultra as unique in a statement issued. It is a built for purpose programmatic unit with agile planning at its core with capabilities to manage real-time triggers, he added. | BY Ricki Green | Applications have opened for this years first Copy School, sponsored by The Newspaper Works, to be held in Melbourne after a successful debut in 2015 and with another world-class line-up of guest tutors. Copy School Melbourne is seeking 20 young copywriters, or those wanting to become a copywriter, to attend the workshop series. The workshop fee is just $250 per student. Copy School will donate fees to Frontyard Youth Services, which is run by Melbourne City Mission. The course fee is fully tax deductible. Copy School is designed to encourage the best quality copywriting across all advertising media and engages some of Australias leading advertising creative writers and creative directors to pass on their knowledge and experience. Melbourne Copy School will be held from 18 to 22 April at the Herald & Weekly Times offices, HWT Towers, 40 City Road, South Bank. Hosted by Sharms Consultancys Mark Sharman, Copy School will provide participants with a real world brief that must be presented on the final morning of the course. Some of the industrys most respected creatives and a senior newspaper editor will be guest tutors including: Paul Taylor, Executive Creative Director, M&C Saatchi Melbourne Nigel Dawson, Creative Partner, Three Wise Men Evan Roberts, Creative Director, Clemenger BBDO Sarah McGregor, Head of Copy, Leo Burnett Jill Baker, Executive Editor Sundays, HWT, News Corp Australia Ron Mather, Director, Its the Thought that Counts Gawen Rudder, Founder, The Knowledge Consultancy Ted Horton, Chief Creative Officer, Big Red. Doogie Chapman, Creative Director, Cummins & Partners Says Ray Black, convenor, Copy School: The success of Copy School in Melbourne and Sydney is due to the unhesitating support and enthusiasm of our tutors. They are top creative directors and writers who want to put something back into the business. Copy School does not dwell in the world of academia, its focus is on creating highly successful advertising for clients. Past students have come from a variety of backgrounds junior writers from agencies, clients and marketing companies. Says Mark Hollands, CEO, The Newspaper Works: We have been delighted with Copy Schools success in Melbourne. Copy Schools reputation means it attracts the best talent in the industry to teach the next generation of creative stars. The creative process is vital to the future of the advertising industry and news media sector and we continue to be fully committed to it. | BY Ricki Green | Braintree has appointed 303 MullenLowe as its media agency for the Asia Pacific region. Braintree launched its innovative online payment platform in 2010, and now manages and processes payments for companies like Uber, Airbnb, 99 Designs as well as Pinterests Buyable Pins. In 2013, Paypal acquired Braintree for $800 million. Says Gavin Gibson, managing partner, Media at 303 MullenLowe: Braintree is a leading payments company that works with some of the best developers and start-up brains in the world. Culturally, its a perfect alignment as both Braintree and 303 MullenLowe view ourselves as innovative brands who make technology meaningful through ideas and innovation. Braintree opened its Australian office four years ago, and expanded into Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia and New Zealand last year. Says Scott Chan, international marketing lead, Braintree: As we are growing at a rapid pace in this territory, we were drawn to 303 MullenLowes media offering because they are just as obsessed with ideas and data as we are, which means they can help us understand how each of our media investments is performing thats invaluable for a technology company like ours. In 2015, Braintree processed around $50 billion worth of authorised payments more than double the volume it processed in 2014. Braintree currently operates in 46 countries and 130 currencies. 303 MullenLowe has been expanding its media department since Gibson joined the agency last July. Over the past six months, he has doubled the size of the agencys media division in Sydney and Perth, also investing heavily in the agencys data and analytics capabilities. Federal Education Minister Simon Birmingham said of his decision to revoke the funding, "unfortunately, the authority that operates the Islamic School of Canberra was not able to demonstrate to my department that they had addressed the significant concerns about their independence, financial management and governance arrangements raised during the formal compliance review of their operations." The ACT government introduced the trading scheme last year, allowing clubs to buy and sell machines for the first time. The scheme also phases out the Class B machines owned by hotels and clubs, allowing them to sell them to clubs, which can then upgrade them to modern Class C machines, but banning hotels and pubs from buying new machines of their own. Living in the forest on top of the Great Dividing Range near Braidwood the campaigners are awake to the challenges of farming. "While we have the peace of it, and the difficulties of living in the bush, it reminds you of how rural people live. because we have neighbours and friends who are farmers, it keeps us in touch with the producer-side of the issue too," Davies says. "Police hear plenty of excuses from drivers they didn't see the sign or they didn't realise the time. But it's up to each driver to take responsibility for their actions and make a commitment not to speed in school zones," she said. "In your retirement post you lost your manners a bit. I've been known to drop the odd f-bomb myself, but do we really need to do this in public? Do I have to bring the swear jar out again? [Your Business Name] Contact Info Phone: Fax: Email: Web: CAPITOLHILLCUBANS.COM Business Overview Geographic Area Line of Business Brands We Carry Products and Services Discounts Offered Additional Information Business Hours Timezone We Accept Our Promise: Welcome to Care2, the world's largest community for good. Here, you'll find over 45 million like-minded people working towards progress, kindness, and lasting impact. Care2 Stands Against: bigots, racists, bullies, science deniers, misogynists, gun lobbyists, xenophobes, the willfully ignorant, animal abusers, frackers, and other mean people. If you find yourself aligning with any of those folks, you can move along, nothing to see here. Care2 Stands With: humanitarians, animal lovers, feminists, rabble-rousers, nature-buffs, creatives, the naturally curious, and people who really love to do the right thing. You are our people. You Care. We Care2. UPSSSC (Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Board) JE (Junior Engineer Civil, Mechanical and Electrical) examination results have been declared. The results for the UPSSSC JE 2016 has been declared on the official website of UPSSSC JE. The examination for the below posts was held on December 27, 2015. The Uttar Pradesh Subordinate Services Selection Board had invited applications for 771 Junior Engineer posts. The details of the posts is as follows: Junior Engineer (Civil): 756 Junior Engineer (Electrical): 2 Junior Engineer (Mechanical): 13 How to check UPSSSC JE 2016 Results? Gordon Robertson, Chief Driving Consultant at the Porsche Experience Centre in Silverstone, took the new 718 Boxster for a tail-happy spin around the track. The roadster, a range-topping S, was put to the test over a specially designed course that focused on how the laws of physics affect it in acceleration, braking and sideways action. However, this is only the beginning, as Robertson states that the current track is nothing more than a blank canvas and challenges Porsche fans to configure their ideal one. The winner of the best design will be awarded a special prize: go to Silverstone to drive on his/her track for real. What could be better than driving a spectacular course in a spectacular car? Well, designing and driving the course yourself. Watch how the 718 Boxster is being put through its paces in Silverstone, writes the manufacturer in the description. To take part in the contest you will have to visit Porsches microsite that was launched just a few days before the new 718 Boxsters Geneva premiere. Video The Geneva-bound Lamborghini Centenario has made its first appearance ahead of its official debut at the Swiss motoring show. After patent images of the model surfaced on the internet a while back, the Italian car manufacturer finally offered a (quite revealing) sneak peek of the long-awaited, limited edition supercar. Made to celebrate the 100th birthday of the companys founder, Ferruccio Lamborghini, the Centenario will try to challenge our perception of extreme, being the latest outrageous raging bull in a long line of exclusive high-performance cars to come out of SantAgata Bolognese. Based on the Aventador SV, the Centenario will be animated by the same 6.5-litre V12 engine, although its power is expected to rise to 770PS an insignificant boost over the standard 750PS (740hp) and 689Nm (508 lb-ft) of torque, but enough to make it the most powerful Lambo ever created. Even if it will be based on Lamborghinis mid-engine flagship model, the Centenario comes with a completely overhauled design, tailor made to impress with its visceral aggressiveness. Expect a galore of carbon fiber bits and pieces too. PHOTO GALLERY VIDEO Russian tuning company TopCar will be presenting their latest project at this years Geneva Motor Show, alongside the Porsche 911 Turbo S Stinger GTR and Cayenne Vantage SUV. TopCar has also announced that production for the GLE Coupe Inferno will start on March 29th, which means that customers will have to wait a little bit longer in order to finally drive the car they paid 20,205 to get customized. Those who dont want the GLE Coupe Infernos body kit to feature any carbon fiber bits, can order it in its basic form, which will only set them back 17,080. As for their other two show cars, the 911 Stinger GTR is the one that offers the most performance, while carrying the biggest price tag last year they were selling one with 24K gold elements inside, at a premium of 290,000. The 2016 Cayenne Vantage is also a pretty costly investment in and of itself. But if youre considering only the custom body kit, that carries a 21,365 price tag in carbon-fiber form otherwise its 14,865. Those of you attending the Geneva Motor Show will need to make your way to stand 5041 at Hall 5 in order to snap a few nice images of these cars. PHOTO GALLERY Read the full report > YANGON Myanmar's Union Election Commission has addressed post-election complaints in a transparent manner, The Carter Center said in a statement released today, but the country's new government should address legal and structural issues to make it easier for candidates and citizens to pursue complaints in future elections and to further increase the transparency of the tabulation of results. Forty-five complaints were lodged with the election commission. The cost of filing a complaint including the cost of traveling to the capital of Nay Pyi Taw for a hearing discouraged some candidates and parties from registering complaints. To date, the election commission has issued a judgment in only two cases. (The lack of deadlines for deciding cases limits the potential for effective remedy.) The Center's observers remained in Myanmar after the historic Nov. 8 election to monitor post-election day developments, including the tabulation of results, the dispute-resolution process and seating of the new government. In most areas the observers visited, tabulation was conducted in a transparent and professional manner. However, results forms were not always made available for public scrutiny in a timely manner, and in several instances, observers were denied access or were restricted in their ability to observe effectively. The Carter Center offers the following recommendations to the Union Election Commission: As possible, minimize additional costs for complainants, including the relocation of hearings to states and regions where appropriate. Ensure that cases are heard without delay to minimize the impact on the rights of the complainants and defendants. Make decisions available on the UEC website for public review in a timely manner. For future elections, the tabulation process should provide for the public availability of all results forms as soon as they are completed to ensure independent verification of results. The process of tabulating results should be fully accessible to accredited observers. The Center commends the UEC on its post-election review and recommends that the Union legislature place reform of the election laws, including improvement of the post-election dispute system and campaign finance regulation, on the 2016 legislative agenda. The complete post-election statement, which includes information on campaign finance issues, the concerns of ethnic parties, election-related criminal complaints, and the post-election environment is available here. Translations Burmese (PDF) ### "Waging Peace. Fighting Disease. Building Hope." A not-for-profit, nongovernmental organization, The Carter Center has helped to improve life for people in over 80 countries by resolving conflicts; advancing democracy, human rights, and economic opportunity; preventing diseases; and improving mental health care. The Carter Center was founded in 1982 by former U.S. President Jimmy Carter and former First Lady Rosalynn Carter, in partnership with Emory University, to advance peace and health worldwide. CalArts character animation student Aphton Corbin has been publishing an impressive series of daily comics in honor of Black History Month. Yesterdays piece by Corbin speaks directly to the idea of what it means for a young person of color to be creating artwork in an industry that famously cranks out homogeneous product that rarely deviates from established formulas. Corbins comic is reminiscent of comments by El Tigre co-creator and Book of Life director Jorge Gutierrez, who has often spoken out about the lack of representation in the animation industry. When is the Mexican princess going to show up? Gutierrez used to wonder when he was a kid, before realizing that to make something that resonates, it should always come from an honest place. Maruti Suzuki has started exporting the Baleno hatchback to Europe ahead of the Geneva International Motor show. Suzuki Motor Corp. will showcase the India-made Baleno at the upcoming event, which will be open to the press on March 1 and 2; and then to the general public from March 3 to March 13. Maruti Suzuki had started exporting the Balenos through Adani Groups Mundra Port in Gujarat. The first consignment to Europe is of 1,800 Balenos, all of which are manufactured by Maruti Suzuki India. All of these will be sold in European countries including Belgium, Germany, Italy, Poland, Slovenia and Spain. Cosmetically, the Europe-spec Baleno is the same as the one sold in the Indian market. However, the powertrains are different. Instead of the 1.2-litre petrol and 1.3-litre diesel engine options, mated to a five-speed manual, the European model will be powered by the 1.2-litre petrol mill with SHVS tech. The 1.0-litre BoosterJet engine will also be offered. The transmission options will include the five-speed manual or a CVT gearbox. Maruti Baleno exports to Japan had commenced last month, just ahead of the 2016 Auto Expo. We can expect the car to be launched for the European markets in a few weeks time. The official European premiere will take place tomorrow at Suzuki's pavilion at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show. Photo: Facebook - Randi Berklande Randi Berklande picked up an unwanted guest while going for a hike over the weekend. Berklande posted a picture of a woodtick she found after hiking on Carrot Mountain near Kelowna. A few hours later, she posted she had found another tick in her backpack. While it is still winter, the Vernon resident posted the warning to others that ticks seem to be out earlier than usual this year. Wendy Hayward replied, certain ticks should be sent to CanLyme so they can be tested for Lyme disease. If we can show that we have ticks with Lyme here maybe it will finally be recognized. CanLyme is the Canadian Lyme Disease Foundation and according to its website, it was formed to provide the public, including medical professionals, with balanced and validated information on Lyme disease and related co-infections. According to CanLyme, Lyme disease is an inflammatory infection that spreads to humans through tick bites. Lyme is a borreliosis caused by borrelia bacteria, which commonly infects woodland animals like mice or deer. Ticks pick up the bacteria by biting infected animals, and then pass it on to their human hosts. The are many strains or genospecies of borrelia that cause Lyme disease (borreliosis) in humans just as there are many strains of the flu virus that cause flu symptoms in humans, with some strains more virulent than others. Canada is home to many species of ticks, but the Ixodes Tick more often known as the black-legged or deer tick is the most common Lyme-carrier. CanLyme and the B.C. Centre for Disease Control suggest people who suspect they have Lyme disease be tested. Photo: CTV It may look like an ordinary garage, but inside the Langley building a budding business is blossoming. Kyle Richardson, BCIT student turned entrepreneur, explains the glowing neon green trailer is a Hotbox, a mobile grow-up on wheels, engineered and designed by the company Hotbox.farm Ltd. to help medical marijuana users grow pot easily, safely and from just about anywhere. Hotbox is the brainchild of cancer patient Graham Ford, who has been using marijuana to treat pain for years. Ford said the mobile pot factory can help growers avoid the red tape of setting up a legal grow op in a building. I experienced all the pitfalls many personal growers do, Ford said. You would require building permits, electrical inspections, possibly a fire department inspection but because [Hotbox is] on wheels, because its plug and play theres no safety concerns. Hotbox is wired with everything a budding entrepreneur may need to get their business rolling - a watering system, a dehumidifier, fireproof insulation and ventilation. It has a 40-plant capacity and is designed to fit inside a standard residential garage. The grow op on wheels is being tested and could soon be available for around $18,000. On Wednesday, a B.C. judged ruled medical marijuana users should be allowed to grow their own pot at home, striking down legislation implemented by the previous Conservative government. - with files from CTV Photo: CTV After three weeks surviving on his own in the wild, Scout is back where he belongs. The three-year-old goldendoodle ran off from a dog walker on Feb. 5 on Soo River Road near Whistler. Kate O'Sullivan was devastated, but she refused to give up on her beloved pet. I had lost hope a few days ago, I truly thought he was gone, OSullivan said in a statement posted on Scouts Instagram account Saturday night. But we still couldnt stop the search. OSullivan set out with dogged determination to find Scout, setting up a Go Fund Me page that raised more than $7,400, Petsearchers Canada brought in bloodhounds, an ad was placed in the paper, a $1,500 reward was offered and a helicopter was even sent out but there was still no sign of Scout. Then on Saturday, nearly three weeks later, OSullivan received a miraculous phone call: a woman said she had found the dog on the side of the highway in Pemberton. OSullivan went straight to the scene, and found Scout inside the Good Samaritans car. I stopped the car, ran down the road like a sobbing mess and he was there, she said. The Good Samaritan refused the reward and any excess money from the fundraising will be given to the Whistler Animal Shelter or used to help others who have lost a pet. - with files from CTV Photo: The Canadian Press Lawyers for British Columbia foster parents fighting to adopt a Metis toddler they have raised since birth are expected to be in the Court of Appeal today. The Vancouver Island couple, who cannot be named, are seeking an interim order to prevent the Children's Ministry from taking the toddler before their appeal of a lower-court ruling can be heard. The ministry wants to move the two-and-a-half-year-old girl to Ontario to live with her older siblings, who she has never met. The foster mother is Metis, while the caregivers in Ontario are not, pitting the importance of cultural background against that of blood relatives. Last week, a B.C. Supreme Court judge dismissed the couple's petition to stop the ministry from moving the girl, finding it was an abuse of process because a similar petition filed by the foster parents had already been dismissed. The couple has filed an appeal of the decision but it could be some time before it can be heard, and in the meantime, they want an interim order to stop the ministry from moving the toddler. Photo: Contributed Canada is a land of extremes, from car-freezing cold to crop-searing heat and drenching rains to drought. But you ain't seen nothin' yet. By 2050 within the life expectancy of most Canadians scientists say that if current emissions levels remain unchanged, climate change will be well established. It will be warmer: a cross-country summertime average of about two degrees. It will be wetter, mostly, by about five per cent. Those modest figures may sound good to a country that describes summer as four months of poor sledding. And global warming will bring perks, such as the chance to grow different or more abundant crops. But gentle averages, however, are not what Canadians will experience. Climate change will feed into Canada's already considerable natural variability and not to smooth it out. "The kind of changes one anticipates are more likelihood of drought or more likelihood of wet periods," said Greg Flato, Environment Canada's top climate modeller. "If you think about temperature extremes, as the climate warms the likelihood of getting a very hot extreme becomes greater; the likelihood of getting a very cold extreme becomes less likely." The extra rain, for example, is unlikely to fall in a gentle spring shower. Look for it in great flooding downpours or winter rains that drain before they can nourish crops. John Pomeroy, a Canada research chair in water resources at the University of Saskatchewan, points out the amount of water that falls as snow has already declined by 50 per cent on the Prairies. The number of multi-day rains has increased by the same amount. "Farmers need to adapt to that, to being inundated and flooded quite a bit," he said. Heat-loving crops like corn could become much more common in Canadian fields. But water availability could limit the advantage of a longer growing season. Southern Canada's modest precipitation gains are expected to be lost through higher temperatures. FOREST TO PRAIRIE Milder winters allow mountain pine beetles to survive and infect forests in Alberta and Saskatchewan, killing trees and turning parched and overheated forests into tinder boxes. Wildfire seasons already begin weeks before they used to. In the Northwest Territories, where temperatures are climbing faster than almost anywhere on earth, the 2014 fire season set a record of 3.4 million hectares of scorched forest. Aspens, the most common leafy tree in the boreal forest, are dying at twice their historic norm, "part of a larger-scale pattern of climate-related dieback episodes," says Natural Resources Canada. By 2050, look for big parts of the boreal forest's southern fringe to be brand-new prairie. "Drought-prone spruce will be lost first, followed by pines and then aspen, to be replaced by some form of prairie grassland," said a 2009 report from the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers. Glaciers, an important source of water for western cities during low-snow years, are on their way out, said Mike Demuth of the Geological Survey of Canada. "Glaciers in the Rocky Mountains are pretty much going the way of the dodo bird," he said. Nor do the changes stop with the land. "We are already seeing (fish) species shifting their distributions," said William Cheung of the University of British Columbia. "Warmer water species from the south are appearing in the north area and some of the (northern) species are suffering because the ocean becomes too hot for them." Look for overall catches off the Pacific coast to decline between four and 11 per cent by 2050, Cheung said. Salmon hauls will drop between 17 and 29 per cent, herring by up to half. There is, however, good news. West coast fishers can look for more pacific sardines and manila clams. In the Atlantic, catches are expected to increase as long as fishers can sail further north. "Smaller-scale fisheries may not be able to fish from their home ports a lot further," Cheung said. Commercial fisheries could also open in an ice-free Arctic Ocean, with turbot, Arctic cod and Arctic char. But much science is needed to determine if those fisheries are sustainable. "It will be risky," Cheung said. "Once fisheries have developed, it's very difficult to scale it down." THE HIDDEN DRIVER Canadians will also have to deal with climate change's global impacts. "It complicates the U.S.-Canada relationship," said Rob Huebert from the Centre for Military and Strategic Studies at the University of Calgary. "We know that in the southwest (U.S.) they're pretty much getting maxed out in terms of available water sources. In a United States that is water-deprived, they're automatically looking northward." Climate will be a hidden driver behind many difficult foreign situations, said Huebert. Refugees, fleeing expanding African deserts or the strife caused thereby, will be knocking on Canada's door. "What I'm seeing is an acceleration in the collapse of some of these societies and it seems to be coming from the expansion of the desert," Huebert said. "(Climate change) definitely seems to be an intervening variable that is exacerbating the situation. "It's the accelerator of what's already a bad situation." Some worry current predictions are too conservative. "All the work we've done may be falling apart because nobody expected to see the Arctic exploding with heat," said University of Lethbridge climate modeller James Byrne. Even with this year's El Nino, Byrne said the Arctic is falling apart faster than anyone thought it would. January was the ninth straight month of record-breaking global warmth and saw the greatest departure from average of any on record, says NASA. It was hottest in the Arctic four degrees above normal. "The scenarios are challenging to interpret at this point," Byrne said. "How much faith can we really have in them? I'm worried about that." Most climatologists say the big impacts especially if the world doesn't reduce its carbon emissions don't even start until after 2050. Climate change forecasts, said Flato, only predict more uncertainty. "We don't know where that ultimate change will be," he said. "It's a bit worrisome, not knowing what the future will be for my son or my grandchildren. The uncertainty of where it will get to is a worry to me." Hospital laundry workers staged a short protest outside Vernon Jubilee Hospital along Highway 97 early Monday morning. Holding a long 'Leap for Local Laundry' sign, workers waved to vehicles passing by, cheered on by drivers who honked their support. The protestors are fearful Interior Health is about to privatize hospital laundry services leaving them unemployed. As far as Interior Health pay grids go, they're among the lowest (paid). No one is getting rich being a laundry worker, said Wes Fitzsimmons, a member of the Hospital Employees' Union campaign to stop the contracting out. They are good paying jobs. They support families and they support the community too. He said 17 people in Vernon work in the laundry service. A total of 175 jobs are at stake within the IHA. The union expects the IHA to announce its decision on privatization at any time. Rallies are also expected to be held today in Kelowna, Penticton, Kamloops, 100 Mile House and Nelson. Photo: Contributed A couple from Liverpool, N.S., is being honoured as one of Canada's longest married couples. Bill and Bertie Nickerson have been married 80 years and still live in the same brick house he had built for them following their marriage in 1935. Their grand-daughter, Kerri Nickerson, nominated the couple in a contest run by a Catholic organization that promotes healthy marriages. She says her grandparents have always been in love and often refer to each other as boyfriend and girlfriend. Bill is now 101 years old, and Bertie is 98. Bertie says they've always agreed with each other, and jokes that neither one has decided to kick the other out yet. Photo: Contributed - Gangsters Out Convicted murderer Roy Fraser has lost an appeal of his first- and second-degree murder convictions for two slayings near Kamloops. In a unanimous decision, the B.C. Court of Appeal has rejected Fraser's arguments that the trial judge made several legal errors. The appeal court ruling upholds the original charge to the jury, finding no grounds for a defence submission that the trial judge should have ordered acquittal on the first-degree murder charge. Instead, B.C.'s top court noted evidence allowed the jury to infer Fraser deliberately shot 31-year-old Damien Marks in 2009 as Marks escaped after Fraser shot another man. The bodies of Marks and Independent Soldiers gang associate Ken Yaretz Jr., were found in a shallow grave on Fraser's rural property northeast of Kamloops, one month after they disappeared. In 2013, Fraser received a mandatory 25-year term for the murder of Marks and a 10-year concurrent term for the slaying of Yaretz. Photo: The Canadian Press. All rights reserved. Canada Space Agency President Steve MacLean responds to reporters questions at a news conference on advanced medical technology. Wednesday, February 29, 2012 at the Institut National d'Optique in Quebec City. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jacques Boissinot The federal government's decision to commit to the International Space Station for another five years should mean Canadian astronauts will return to space sooner than expected. Industry Minister Christian Paradis announced Wednesday in Quebec City that Canada will extend its commitment to the ISS from 2015 to 2020. The announcement came as the heads of foreign space agencies were arriving in Quebec City for an international conference where they planned to discuss the future of the space station. It also came amid a climate of heightened concern with the Canadian space community, with the federal government about to embark on a round of significant spending cuts. The government already signalled in its annual spending estimates released Wednesday that the Canadian Space Agency's budget would fall 14 per cent, to $363 million, with the expiry of previous short-term commitments. There could be even deeper cuts in the March 29 federal budget. Given that a number of industry projects are supported by the Canadian Space Agency's budget, its future funding decisions carry deep financial implications for the space sector. So the delay in announcing a renewed commitment to the space station had some of them worried. Canada was the last of the five ISS partners to commit itself to the space station up to 2020, the end of the orbiting lab's current projected lifespan. Paradis defended the government's delay. "I think it was important to evaluate all of the factors," he told reporters. "Things are changing. Who could have predicted years ago that NASA would cut its budget and stop launching space shuttles and then launching (its astronauts) from Russia?" The federal industry minister said the government would share details later about the terms and conditions of its continued involvement, but he said Wednesday's announcement signalled that, "Canada is there, Canada is on board from 2015 up to 2020." Steve MacLean, head of the Canadian Space Agency, called Canada's continued commitment to the space station "a major milestone." He suggested it would lead to another Canadian astronaut visiting the space station before 2020. Canadian astronaut Chris Hadfield will travel to the ISS for a six-month stay at the end of 2012, but there are currently no flights, beyond Hadfield, scheduled for Canadians before the end of the decade. "The relationship is basically a mathematical formula," MacLean explained. "If we are a member (of the ISS) we accumulate so many credits per year. "We have credits until 2015 and now that we've extended our participation ... we will accumulate credits for another five years and, yes, it does mean more Canadians will fly on the International Space Station before 2020." A spokesman for Paradis said the financial details of Canada's extended commitment to the ISS will be included in the next federal budget. MacDonald, Dettwiler and Associates (TSX:MDA) which provided Canadarm2, a robotic arm that was critical in the construction of the space station, praised the extended government commitment. "We see this as a strong signal from the government that it recognizes the strategic importance of space robotics," said Craig Thornton, MDA's general manager of robotics. "This is the kind of decision that helps to support Canada's high tech jobs, our worldwide leadership in space robotics as well as our competitiveness." MDA also provided Dextre, a sophisticated space robot that was involved in delicate assembly and maintenance work. Iain Christie, president of the Neptec Design Group, had been particularly critical of the government's delay in committing itself to the ISS beyond 2015. But in an email to The Canadian Press he said he was thrilled with the industry minister's announcement. "This clears up any lingering confusion over Canada's intent to remain at the forefront of space exploration and exploitation," Christie said. "It is a welcome shot in the arm for all of us in the space business who are very proud of the work we have done in maintaining and advancing Canada's reputation in the international community." Ottawa-based Neptec made the laser-camera system that was used to inspect for damage on the exterior of the recently retired U.S. space shuttles. On Wednesday, MacLean met with NASA administrator Charles Bolden, who described Canada as an important part of the exploration team that's now in place. The meeting was one of a number of bilateral get-togethers that involved the five ISS partners. "What we are telling each other is now we need to start thinking about where we go after 2020, how do we phase into a deep space exploration program, and take advantage of the capability that the international space station provides," Bolden said in an interview with The Canadian Press. The head of NASA said he and MacLean discussed several issues, including how Canada can provide a capability to analyse samples taken on Mars or on asteroids, using sensors it had developed or have in development. Canada's announcement Wednesday came nearly a year after member states of the European Space Agency decided, following some debate, to endorse continued support and financial assistance of the station until 2020. But can you believe that about 20 years ago, we were just playing Snakes on the bulky Nokia mobile phones? So, lets stroll a bit back to 1997. Its the year when Nokia launched Snake, the most popular early mobile game on phones. The snake came preinstalled on several handsets manufactured by Nokia. Found on more than 400 million mobile devices, it has since become one of the most played games in history. A few years shortly after, Tetris came ringing on the door and crowned one of the most addicting arcade tile-matching games ever invented in the year 2000. Before iPhone exists, this game was popular on iPods where you use those wheels to navigate and stack those puzzle pieces into neatly arranged piles. As nostalgic as Tetris can be, Angry Birds can be beaten off-the-chart in any way. Since its release in 2009, every already seems to jump into the bandwagon to challenge this game with friends and family. This game mainly focuses on the multi-colored birds trying to save their eggs from their enemies aka the green pigs. Though it might be one of the most mainstream games out there, it releases certainly brings more fun than anything else. Plants vs Zombies 2010 A decade after, there go the Plants vs Zombies. All it takes for you to stand out from this game is to protect your crops from the hungry zombies. It was rated one of the most challenging games in 2010 and shortly after that, Plants vs Zombies 2 over-throned its first version of becoming the most successful game ever released. Temple Run 2011 However in the following years, the running game Temple Run blew up on iOS and it became available on Android quickly after. It wouldnt be a surprise to find out there are still plenty of mobile phone users have this mobile game on their phone. Clash of Clans & Candy Crush Sage 2012 In 2012, its arguable one of the best years for mobile gamers. Most of the mobile users can be seen either clashing or crushing and its all thanks to the launch of Clash of Clans and Candy Crush Saga. Though both of these games feature distinctive different gameplay, they are equally addicting. So, whether youre into building your empire to clash with your villages or to advance by crushing those candy stacks. Flappy Bird 2013 Two years after, the classic Flappy Bird took a big hit since its launch. Though it doesnt feature outstanding graphics, its certainly addicting enough to keep everyone raves about it. All it does is you have to slide to the scroller to allow the bird to fly without hitting the pipes. Pokemon Go 2016 Remember those days where youre busy running out of an empty field just to catch a Pokemon? Yes, were referring to 2016. This game is no brainer and all you need is to allow your GPS to locate, catch, and train virtual creatures that appear on your mobile displays. Just if you thought this game is slowing fading away. Think otherwise. In fact, Pokemon still exists and it doesnt seem like its going away anytime soon. Call of Duty: Mobile 2019 In 2019, the ironic Call of Duty: Mobile finally released and its has then received the attention beyond expectations. Featuring iconic multiplayer maps and modes, this first-person shooter mobile game brings in a heady mix of action and challenges that you ever wished for as a mobile game. Its revolutionized graphics came shockingly different as compared to the games youve ever played decades ago. From the basics of the past to the more sophisticated ones of today, mobile games have truly come a long way. Moody's downgrades Votorantim Cimentos' ratings to Ba2, outlook is negative 29 February 2016 Moody's Investors Service downgraded Votorantim Cimentos SA's senior unsecured rated debt to Ba2 from Baa3. At the same time, Moody's withdrew Votorantim Cimentos' issuer rating and assigned a Ba2 Corporate Family rating. The outlook was changed to negative. The rating action follows Moody's downgrade on 24 February 2016 of Brazil's government bond rating to Ba2 from Baa3. In addition, Moody's downgraded the country's senior unsecured debt rating to Ba2 from Baa3 and the senior unsecured shelf rating to (P)Ba2 from (P)Baa3. The outlook was changed to negative. The rating agency also changed Brazil's country ceiling from Baa2 to Ba1. "The downgrade of Votorantim Cimentos' ratings was prompted by the downgrade of Brazil's government bond rating to Ba2 from Baa3," explained Moody's VP Senior Analyst, Marcos Schmidt. The rating's agency added that Votorantim Cimentos' Ba2 ratings continue to reflect the company's leading position in the Brazilian cement market, strong credit metrics, adequate liquidity, as well as its large scale and integrated operations, which translate into leading market share and above-average EBITDA margins when compared to global peers. The ratings also take into consideration the company's affiliation with Votorantim SA (Ba2, Negative) and its relevance to the parent company, as it contributes with 57 per cent of its total EBITDA generation, as of September 2015. A statement by Moody's noted that Votorantim Cimentos has a good liquidity profile, based on the maintenance of a large cash balance relative to short-term debt. Cash balance of BRL3.6bn (US$0.9bn) as of September 2015 covers short-term debt by almost 2.6x. Moreover, the company has revolving credit facilities amounting to US$882m (BRL3.5bn) with maturity in 2019 and 2020. Votorantim Cimentos also has a comfortable amortisation schedule with an average debt maturity of 9.6 years and funding mix mainly concentrated in bonds (54 per cent of total reported debt) and debentures (22 per cent of total reported debt), as of September 2015. Constraining the ratings are the still-modest operating performance in the United States, Europe and Asia, economic slowdown and corruption investigations affecting the heavy construction market in Brazil, and CADE's (Brazil antitrust authority) decision to rule against the largest cement companies in the country, including Votorantim Cimentos, which was convicted for cartel formation and fined approximately BRL1.5bn. As part of CADE's decision the company would also be obliged to sell certain assets. The company denied its involvement in cartel practices and judicially appealed to the imposed sanctions, but it is uncertain how long the appeal process will take. In 2015 Votorantim Cimentos was granted with an injunction suspending the effects of CADE's decision until final judgment, however CADE may appeal. The negative outlook reflects the change in outlook of Brazil's government bond rating to negative, and our expectations that market conditions for cement producers in Brazil will remain challenging. An upgrade of Votorantim's ratings would depend on an upgrade of Brazil's government bond rating, and improvements in the conditions for the Brazilian cement industry in which the company is able to better its operating performance such that adjusted EBIT to interest expense is sustained above 4.0x (2.0x in the last 12 months ended September 2015) and adjusted retained cash flow (RCF) to net debt increases to levels above 20 per cent (10.9 per cent in the LTM ended September 2015), while decreasing leverage to below 3.5x (5.1x in the last 12 months ended September 2015). All ratios incorporate Moody's standard adjustments. The ratings could be downgraded if Brazil's government bond rating should be further downgraded, or if the company's liquidity profile deteriorates or if its capital structure weakens, with adjusted debt- to-EBITDA ratio above 5.0x after the execution of the expansion plans without prospects for reduction. Performance falling below expectations, indicated by retained cash flow (RCF) to net debt below 10 per cent for a sustained period could also lead to negative rating actions, Moody's added. Published under Approval granted for new Quang Nam plant, Vietnam 29 February 2016 ThaiGroup JSC has received approval from the Peoples Committee of Quang Nam province in Vietnam's central region to develop the second cement plant in the area. The company plans to build the plant on an area of 6.5ha in Thanh My town, Nam Giang district, Vietnam's Ministry of Construction said. The plant, named Thanh My 2 cement plant, will have a total investment of VND11trn (US$489m) and capacity of 12,500tpd of clinker. ThaiGroup, formerly known as Xuan Thanh Group JSC inaugurated its Thach My 1 cement plant in the province in 2014. The plant has a capacity of 2Mta. Published under Israel: government notifies Nesher on price cut 29 February 2016 The government of Israel has notified Nesher Cement Enterprises Ltd that it must cut prices due to lower-priced inputs, local press have reported. Following a drop in the prices of raw materials for making cement, mainly oil prices, the Ministers of Finance and the Economy notified Nesher Israel Cement Enterprises Ltd of a 5.35 per cent cut in the price of cement. The revision was according to a procedure stipulated in the arrangement with Nesher signed in September 2014. The Ministry of Finance stated, "The cut in cement prices will contribute to a fall in the prices of inputs in the construction and infrastructure sectors, and we hope that it will be passed on throughout the entire economy." (Source: Globes Israel Business Arena). Published under Marty Haynes has been a Hamilton County Commissioner for nearly four years and, when we were talking recently, he told me what an eye opener it has been to run for assessor of property. I have loved representing my district on the County Commission but this has been my first county-wide campaign. I cant tell you how frustrated almost every person I talk to is with our government today. Im not talking about in Washington where it starts or at the state capitol. Everybody who is an elected official needs to know they need to fully represent the people and I am sincere when I say this: campaigning has given me a stronger resolve to serve the people than I have ever had before. Haynes believes his greatest asset is that he is a business man, not a politician who is caught up in the government machine. Running the assessors office should be exactly like running a successful company. If you run a business, you have to serve your customers or theyll go somewhere else. That is exactly the view people who are in government should have rather than indifference. Too many public servants get complacent because the public has nowhere else to go, other than the ballot box, and thats not right. You have to do your best day-in and day-out. One reason people are frustrated is because they dont believe the job they elected politicians to do is getting done, he said in a candid way. I promise Ill get the job done. Haynes has campaigned hard because he has two capable opponents in tomorrows Republican primary. Running for assessor of property has been good for me. I love my job at Porter Warner and I have been determined not to let the campaign hurt what I do there. I manage in sales and operate with a budget very similar to the assessors office. My mother has had some health issues, he said, but getting out and pounding the sidewalk has been really good for me win or lose. Not until you start knocking on doors, visiting neighborhoods and talking to people one-on-one can you understand what really concerns them. That has been both educational and rewarding. I really have to say it has been enlightening. Haynes who it must never be forgotten gave back his share of discretionary money in this years budget after a slick grab was made by his fellow commissioners to hoist $900,000 from County Mayor Jim Coppingers budget. He and Joe Graham refused to take $100,000 that they could earmark for pet projects. I just felt like that was the right thing to do. Thats not my money. It is like Joe Graham said, How do you steal taxpayer money to help taxpayers? A successful politician has to be a good steward. You saw what the mayor said the other day: It is easy to be a philanthropist with somebody elses money. Its as simple as that. Let me say that I have really enjoyed being a member of the County Commission but the way I look at the assessors office is that it will put me in the role of serving the people of Hamilton County on a full-time basis. Ask anyone who has done that, from Bill Knowles to Bill Bennett, how gratifying that it. Larry Henry was a county commissioner before he went full-time as Circuit Court clerk and he loves helping people on a full-time basis. Haynes, who represents District 3 on the commission, will remain in that role until 2018. Obviously, if he is elected a person from District 3 (think Hixson, Middle Valley) would be appointed to take his place after the August election. Oh, I think the people who live in my district have been very encouraging in my campaign. They elected me in 2012 and know I have worked hard to represent them. In the assessors office I will still represent them, too. Asked about tomorrows election, Haynes said the turnout is expected to be around 25 percent of the voters in Hamilton County. We, the people of Tennessee, need more people voting than that. Ive tried to tell people their votes matter. I realize that in the primary there are only two races, for the assessor and Criminal Court judge, but the best way for people to deal with frustration is to vote. I think youll see many more voters in August. Does Haynes see a trend in voter interest? Most of the people I have spoken with believe we need to become more business oriented, which has been my pitch since the first day. I have been watching the dilemma with our public schools and it is obvious to me there needs to be more of a business model. There has to be accountability with a budget of $400 million and, for example, I think Mayor Coppinger is doing much more of that. Has the public frustration been disappointing as he goes from door-to-door? Absolutely not. No way. First, I am frustrated myself by what I see. At the end of tomorrows election, I wont owe anybody anything. I dont have any baggage. If I am elected, the only debt I will owe is to the citizens of Hamilton County. Ever since I joined the County Commission, I have realized I represent the people of the Third District to vote for what is best for every person in the county. Thats never going to change. I have represented the people of this entire county for four years with every decision I have made, Marty said, and now I want to do much more of that. royexum@aol.com Etowah Utilities was announced the winner of the Region 10 Best Tasting Water Contest sponsored by the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts. The competition took place at Eastside Utility District in Chattanooga. Drinking water samples are judged on their clarity, bouquet and taste. TAUD Region 10 consists of Bledsoe, Bradley, Grundy, Hamilton, Marion, McMinn, Meigs, Monroe, Polk, Rhea, Sequatchie and Van Buren counties. In addition to Etowah Utilities, the other participants in the competition included Athens Utility Board, Englewood Water & Gas, Hixson Utility District, Ocoee Utility District, Tellico Area Service Systems and Tennessee American Water. Serving as judges for the competition were Ed Short of National Water Services, Dustin Henderson of McWane Ductile and Steve Chappell of Chaprock Productions. TAUD will conduct the Best Tasting Water in Tennessee Contest in each of the Associations 11 regions in the upcoming months. The winner of each region will participate in a statewide competition at TAUDs Business of Running a Utility Conference at the Gatlinburg Convention Center on Aug. 11. The statewide winner will then represent Tennessee in the Great American Taste Test held in conjunction with the National Rural Water Association Rally in Washington D.C. in February 2017. Founded in 1957, the Tennessee Association of Utility Districts serves as the state's main source of training, technical assistance and advocacy for more than 400 water, wastewater and natural gas utility members in Tennessee. For more information visit www.taud.org, find on Facebook at Tennessee Association of Utility Districts and follow on Twitter at @TAUDtweets. In many cases, even the slightest mistake can have devastating consequences. Dealing with hazardous materials in the laboratory calls for extreme caution. Visitors attending analytica (May 1013, 2016, Messe Munchen) can find out how laboratory employees should act and what protective measures should be taken at a special show on Occupational Safety/Health and Safety at the Workplace in Hall B2. The special show will revolve around spectacular live demonstrations conducted by experts from asecos and Bernd Kraft on the topics Fires and explosions, Handling hazardous materials safely and Avoiding health hazards. In daily experimental lectures, the safety experts will demonstrate the hazards that can arise when various chemicals interact or are stored improperly. Even the smallest quantities of flammable hazardous materials and a spark are all its takes for an uncontrollable chain reaction. Additionally, visitors will also receive valuable basic knowledge for their everyday tasks in science, industry and the laboratory. That includes sufficient protective and preventative measures, the right personal protective equipment and a comprehensive understanding of hazardous materials and legal foundations. For example, Dr. Jochen Kraft, Managing Director at Bernd Kraft, will demonstrate with his presentation The Safe Handling of Hazardous Substances/Avoiding Health Risks through the EMKG and PPE the best ways to organize a laboratory to protect laboratory users health. Clear cut and effective Susanne Grodl, analytica's Exhibition Director: The combination is just right: Our concept consists of information and exciting experiments, which allows us to transport the important topic of Occupational Safety/Health and Safety in the Workplace for all laboratory users in an impressive and informative manner. The special show was a success from the beginning. More than 4,000 visitors experienced the experiments live two years ago, some of which ended with a bang. Once again, a variety of demonstrations are on this year's agenda: from rich and lean mixtures and exothermal reactions to small controlled fires and explosions. Naturally, visitor safety is guaranteed at all times. The experimental demonstrations last approximately 30 minutes each. They take place every day at 11:00 and 15:00 in German and at 14:00 in English. Chicago's Merchandise Mart, photographed in 2012, will become the global headquarters for Beam Suntory, it was announced Feb. 29, 2016. The premium spirits company will complete the move of 450-plus employees from Deerfield by the end of 2017. (Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune) It's official: Big Whiskey is coming to the big city. Beginning in September, premium spirits company Beam Suntory will gradually move its 450-plus employees and global headquarters from Deerfield to Chicago's Merchandise Mart, making it the latest company to pull up stakes in the 'burbs in hopes of attracting a young diverse workforce in the city. Beam Suntory signed a letter intent to sublease 110,000 square feet of office space from Motorola Mobility within the Mart, executives announced Monday. Advertisement Beam Suntory CEO Matt Shattock said the company will increasingly focus its resources in cities like Chicago, where consumers and particularly millennials live and work and, increasingly, drink whiskey. "Chicago's right at the heart of these trends," Shattock said. Advertisement Beam Suntory's employees in departments such as marketing, sales, finance, legal, human resources, IT, supply chain and communications will gradually move beginning Sept. 1, with the relocation completed by the end of 2017. The announcement confirmed a Tribune story earlier this month that Beam Suntory was considering moving at least some of its suburban employees to the city. The move will not result in any layoffs, Shattock said. Beam Suntory's a growing company and has the "soul of a start-up" despite a history that stretches back more than 200 years, he said. The $4 billion company saw mid-single digit percentage growth in its sales last year, driven by the global popularity of bourbon and America's growing thirst for Japanese whiskey. Several companies in recent years have left the suburbs for downtown Chicago in hopes of tapping into a younger and more diverse workforce. In January, Kraft Heinz moved 1,500 employees from Northfield to the Aon Center. Hillshire Brands, Walgreens and AT&T have either opened downtown offices or relocated their headquarters to the city. McDonald's opened a River North office in April to house digital employees while retaining its longtime Oak Brook headquarters. And this summer, ConAgra Foods will move its headquarters from Omaha, Neb., to the Mart. On Monday, Mayor Rahm Emanuel called Beam Suntory in Chicago a "perfect fit," considering the city's practical advantages, like access to public transportation and workforce, and cultural offerings, such as the annual James Beard Awards and the Chicago Gourmet weekend in September. "When you look at (Beam Suntory), it fits exactly where Chicago is at today," Emanuel said. No tax incentives were part of the deal, said Emanuel, noting that Deputy Mayor Steve Koch was helpful in bringing Beam Suntory to the city. Koch had past dealings with Beam in his previous job as an investment banker with Credit Suisse when Beam was part of the Fortune Brands holding company. Beam has called a corporate office building at 510 Lake Cook Road in Deerfield home since March 1988, according to Andrew Lichterman, assistant village manager in Deerfield. The affluent northern suburb is also home to corporations such as Walgreens and Mondelez, among others. Advertisement Beam Suntory's departure will have little to no impact on tax revenue, Lichterman said. "We're always sorry to lose a corporate resident of the village," Deerfield Mayor Harriet Rosenthal said. Beam Suntory was created when Japan's Suntory bought Beam for about $16 billion in April 2014, bringing together American brands such as Jim Beam bourbon and Japan's Yamazaki single-malt whiskey. Its brands also include Maker's Mark and Knob Creek bourbon, Canadian Club whiskey and Kakubin, Hakushu and Hibiki whiskeys, and Courvoisier cognac. gtrotter@tribpub.com Twitter @GregTrotterTrib Macy's will retain its rights to the Marshall Field's name after a settlement with a California man planning to monetize the retailer's dormant monikers. (Nancy Stone / Chicago Tribune) Macy's, which retired the Marshall Field's name a decade ago, will keep the rights to the beloved Chicago brand as part of a court settlement reached with a California man planning to monetize the retailer's dormant monikers. The department-store operator had filed a federal trademark infringement suit in the Northern District of California against Strategic Marks, a Newport Beach, Calif.-based business that tries to revive defunct brands, and its chief executive, Ellia Kassoff. Kassoff recently resurrected Hydrox cookies. Advertisement Macy's didn't like the idea of Strategic Marks trying to capitalize on such "heritage" brands as Marshall Field's. The two sides settled the case last week, with Strategic Marks getting the trademarks to several of Macy's lapsed department store brands but not Marshall Field's, both sides confirmed. Advertisement "Macy's is transferring to Strategic Marks its rights to I. Magnin, Bullock's, Foley's, Bamberger's, Jordan Marsh and Robinsons-May," Anthony Lo Cicero, a lawyer representing Macy's, said Monday. "Macy's has retained all rights to its other heritage store brand marks." Macy's "really wanted" to keep the Marshall Field's name, Kassoff said. Still, he said he "couldn't be happier." "Now we can move forward with our plans to monetize well-known aspects of these names, such as selling Jordan Marsh Blueberry Muffins along the East Coast and online," he said. Besides building an online presence, "we also plan to move forward rebuilding the stores in their local markets, now that our discussions with investors can resume." A trial in the case was set to begin in May. In early February, a judge in the case ruled that Macy's still had a "protected interest" in the trademarks on T-shirts of eight department store chains, including Marshall Field's, that it acquired over the years. In 2005, Cincinnati-based Macy's, then called Federated Department Stores, completed its purchase of Field's parent May Department Stores and announced it would erase a Chicago name dating to the 1800s. byerak@tribpub.com Twitter @beckyyerak Michigan and California, vying for control of our driverless future, are each proposing crumbling World War II military sites as ideal locations to test robot cars. Michigan's secret weapon? Better potholes. The Great Lakes state plans to make a test track out of a 330-acre (134-hectare) industrial ghost town near Ypsilanti, where Rosie the Riveter built B-24 bombers during World War II. Backers contend that tough winters make the Willow Run factory site a better proxy for the imperfect world of driving than California's decommissioned Navy base in Concord. Advertisement "California is not the real world they don't have four seasons," said Debbie Dingell, the Democratic congresswoman representing Ypsilanti. "We've got real potholes. It's a much more real-world scenario." The states are competing for a chunk of almost $4 billion in federal funding that President Barack Obama last month proposed for development of self-driving cars. While Congress has yet to approve the funding, the dangled money sets up a test-track showdown mirroring the larger struggle between Detroit and Silicon Valley for control of the connected car. Advertisement "We're going to compete for that $4 billion you can plan on that," said Randy Iwasaki, executive director of the Contra Costa Transportation Authority. The group oversees the California site, now called GoMentum Station, where munitions were stored underground during the war. "May the best organization win." Each site has advantages. GoMentum Station has an arid 2,100 acres where 20 miles (32 kilometers) of roads weave around empty barracks, a mess hall, gymnasium and bowling alley. While it doesn't have any state or federal funding, it already has one client: Honda Motor Co. Willow Run, by contrast, has a triple-level overpass and, nearby, underused lanes on U.S. Highway 12 where planners say test cars from multiple makers could travel in squadrons, reaching 75 miles per hour and negotiating tight turns, bridges and tunnels. Backers intend to leave some parts of the site rugged, to mimic real-world conditions, while paving new roads and erecting fake storefronts to create urban and highway environments. The factory itself was torn down last year. The state of Michigan has put up $20 million to start developing the site and to buy the property from Racer Trust, an entity created after General Motors' 2009 bankruptcy to dispose of its former factories. The Willow Run factory became a GM transmission plant after serving as part of Detroit's famed Arsenal of Democracy, spitting out one shiny B-24 Liberator bomber every hour. Among its 42,000 wartime employees was Rose Will Monroe, celebrated in bond-sales films as Rosie the Riveter, based on the iconic poster and song. The planned $80 million conversion of Willow Run is key to efforts by Michigan business leaders and politicians to keep Detroit at the center of automaking. The mission has taken on added urgency as Google dominates development of self-driving cars, with Apple and Tesla Motors also in pursuit. U.S. safety regulators this month told Google its artificial-intelligence system can be considered a replacement for human drivers and are fast-tracking efforts to establish new rules of the road for autonomous autos. As with any real estate discussion, location is key and backers of each site say theirs prevails. For California, it's access to technology companies. GoMentum Station has one attribute that trumps everything Michigan has to offer, Iwasaki said: "We're literally 39 miles north of Silicon Valley." The Michigan team touts its access to a wide number of automakers and more than a century of experience. Three-quarters of the industry's research and development money is spent in Michigan, or about $8 billion, said Kevin Kerrigan, a senior adviser to Michigan Gov. Rick Snyder. The site would work in conjunction with the University of Michigan's Mcity, a 32-acre faux town just 12 miles from the Willow Run location that has been booked solid with autonomous testing since opening last summer. Advertisement "Connected vehicles do not work unless a General Motors car can talk to a Honda," said Gary Peters, a Democrat and Michigan's junior U.S. senator, who is pushing for federal funding. "They all have to be in the same test facility, running their cars." Willow Run's backers are also pitching the site as a place where federal regulators could test driverless cars to ensure they meet safety rules. In the end, supporters say the rugged roads, spotty infrastructure and cold weather for which Michiganders get chided may be the very selling points needed to win the day, since autonomous technology can be afflicted with snow blindness. "If you can't test cars in snow and ice," Peters said, "you're in trouble." "So what happens is, in order for a department to justify spending so much money on them, they have to be able to be used ubiquitously. And what happened was, the weapons were so effective that they became tools of escalation. They would be used in scenarios that didn't seem appropriate because the officers had been trained by the company who controls all the training that they should control the situation first, because there is zero risk." Rock's monologue was scathing -- which you might not have noticed because you were laughing too hard. Of course, as an African American hosting the Oscars that didn't have any black acting nominees, he addressed the controversy head on. But he didn't stop at acknowledging the discomfort or chiding the unnamed "Academy voters" for cluelessness. He told the people right there in the room with him, the ones who mostly support progressive causes and think of themselves as good liberals that they were, despite being "the nicest white people on Earth," racists. But Hollywood is not "burning-cross racist" or "fetch-me-some-lemonade racist," Rock said; it's more insidious. "Hollywood is sorority racist. It's like: 'We like you Rhonda, but you're not a Kappa.'" "As a political scientist and as a person who has followed the budget process over the years, I certainly have seen times when things were a little bit dicey," he said. "But I think very few people could have imagined we'd be in this situation now. It's frustrating. It's playing with people's minds from the civil service workers losing their jobs to the students who are concerned about their futures all the way down to the high school level, where we know students are making decisions about where to go to college." The Acropolis is among the sights you can explore on your own as part of the Athens at its Best six-night package. (Dimitar Dilkoff / AFP/Getty Images) Here are some of the more interesting deals, websites and other travel tidbits that came across our desk recently: Athens at its Best is a six-night package from Go-Today.com that lets you explore the capital of Greece on your own. It's priced from $1,099 per person, double occupancy, which includes round-trip air from New York and lodging. City taxes are extra. 800-227-3235, http://tinyurl.com/hjgpoa6 Advertisement Driftwood Irish Journeys of Discovery offers a six-day/five-night tour of Northern Ireland that's priced from about $1,433 per person, double occupancy. The trip is capped at 16 people traveling by sightseeing van. Price includes lodging, breakfasts and a tour guide. Some entrance fees are extra as is international airfare. 870-474-0055, http://tinyurl.com/z39wsn4 Gate 1 Travel offers a five-day/four-night tour of Panama that's priced from just $989 per person, double occupancy, including round-trip air from Miami. Lodging is at the Crowne Plaza Panama in Panama City, and among the tours are the Miraflores Locks of the Panama Canal, Panama City and a visit to a native village in Chagres National Park. An optional tour is available for a partial transit of the canal. 800-682-3333, http://tinyurl.com/jpvrbnd Advertisement Goway.com will give you spectacular views of Ecuador's Andes with a four-day train and bus trip from Guayaquil to Quito that's priced from $1,493 per person, double occupancy. A highlight of the train ride is the Devil's Nose, a 7-mile stretch of track that climbs 1,800 feet with numerous switchbacks. Price includes transit, lodging in hotels, most meals and a variety of tours. 800-557-2841, http://tinyurl.com/zxvoho3 At Olympic Park in Park City, Utah, you can try extreme tubing or ride with a professional pilot on the bobsled run from the 2002 Winter Olympics. www.utaholympiclegacy.org/park Purim celebrations of the Jewish holiday will be held around Tel Aviv, Israel, March 24 and 25. http://tinyurl.com/jgc8lmj The 25th Anniversary Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival will be April 29-May 8 in the Caribbean nation. www.stluciajazz.org St. Augustine, Fla., hosts the 21st Annual Rhythm and Ribs Festival from April 1-3. www.rhythmandribs.net German tourism folks have compiled a listing of more than 100 interesting natural sites, including 16 national parks, at http://tinyurl.com/zvvd5pq. Looking ahead to summer, Colorado tourism lists 10 notable mountain-bike trails in the Gunnison and Crested Butte area at http://tinyurl.com/gvkpar4. IndependentTravler.com gives the skinny on seven ways to get access to premium airport lounges at http://tinyurl.com/83qbf6n. Advertisement CruiseCritic.com has advice on how to get a deal on unsold cruise ship cabins at http://tinyurl .com/hho8yb7. Prices include taxes and fees unless otherwise noted. Deals and websites listed here have been checked for availability as of press time, but the listings are not an endorsement. Phil Marty is a freelance reporter. Chicago police officers carry protester Bernie Sanders, 21, in August 1963 to a police wagon from a civil rights demonstration at West 73rd Street and South Lowe Avenue. He was arrested, charged with resisting arrest, found guilty and fined $25. He was a University of Chicago student at the time. In 1963, controversial Chicago Public Schools Superintendent Benjamin C. Willis decided that placing aluminum trailers in black neighborhoods was the best way to ease overcrowding and keep school segregation intact. The modular units were put in vacant lots and on existing school grounds in neighborhoods such as Englewood, where the African-American school population was soaring in the early 1960s. Picketing, school boycotts and sit-ins ensued as the black community voiced outrage at the discrimination. (Tom Kinahan / Chicago Tribune) A Chicago Tribune archival photo of a young man being arrested in 1963 at a South Side protest shows Democratic presidential hopeful Bernie Sanders, his campaign has confirmed, bolstering the candidates narrative about his civil rights activism. The black-and-white photo shows a 21-year-old Sanders, then a University of Chicago student, being taken by Chicago police toward a police wagon. An acetate negative of the photo was found in the Tribune's archives, said Marianne Mather, a Chicago Tribune photo editor. Advertisement See more vintage photos from the Tribune's archives >> "Bernie identified it himself," said Tad Devine, a senior adviser to the campaign, adding that Sanders looked at a digital image of the photo. "He looked at it he actually has his student ID from the University of Chicago in his wallet and he said, 'Yes, that indeed is (me).'" Sanders, a U.S. senator from Vermont, was traveling Friday near Reno, Nev., on the eve of the state's Democratic presidential caucuses. Advertisement Sanders' activism at the University of Chicago has been in the news recently, after questions arose about a different photo that appeared to show Sanders addressing students at a 1962 campus sit-in. At first, several alumni identified the speaker as another man, according to the University of Chicago Library's Special Research Center. The other man is no longer alive. However, photographer Danny Lyon, who took that photo, contacted the research center and made available more photos from the same sequence, confirming Sanders' identity, the center said. Devine called those questions about the sit-in photo "unfair and unfounded." "His activism and when it occurred, as a young college student, set in motion the direction of his life," Devine said. After the 1962 photos surfaced, Mather and photographer Brian Nguyen looked in the newspaper's archival collection and found several negatives that appeared to be Sanders. The subjects of the photographs were not listed on the negatives, but information filed with them indicated that the Tribune arrest photo was taken in August 1963 near South 73rd Street and Lowe Avenue, which is in the Englewood neighborhood. A January 1964 Tribune story on the court cases of those who had been arrested in August identified a Bernard Sanders. The negatives were scanned and an image was shown to the Sanders campaign Friday. On Saturday, the campaign confirmed that a second photo also shows Sanders. In the early 1960s, protests over segregation in the Englewood area raged over mobile classrooms dubbed "Willis Wagons," named for then-Chicago Schools Superintendent Benjamin Willis. Critics charged that the trailers kept black children in the area instead of sending them to white schools. Advertisement Sanders was arrested Aug. 12, 1963, and charged with resisting arrest. He was found guilty and fined $25, according to a Tribune story about the protests. Sanders enrolled at the University of Chicago on Oct. 3, 1960, and graduated in June 1964 with a bachelor of arts degree in political science, said Jeremy Manier, a university spokesman. Sanders attended Brooklyn College before coming to the U. of C., Manier said. At the University of Chicago, he was a leader of the Congress of Racial Equality, a major civil rights group. News accounts from the time had Sanders leading protests over racial inequality. kskiba@tribpub.com Twitter @Katherine Skiba It's time for lawmakers to stop hiding behind Gov. Bruce Rauner and House Speaker Michael Madigan and do something to save Chicago State University. (Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune) It is clear that politicians in Springfield don't care about the students at Chicago State University. Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner and Democratic House Speaker Michael Madigan are derailing the dreams of 4,800 young people, the majority of them African-Americans, by blocking their college education. Advertisement With no historically black colleges and universities in Illinois, Chicago State is the closest we have to an HBCU. Chicagoans can't afford to stand by and allow it to be shut down. Across the country, state colleges and universities with majority black enrollments are regularly under siege. Whenever there's a budget crisis, they are the first to land on the chopping block. The decision-makers never seem to understand the value of a school that draws mostly low-income students from an urban area. Advertisement Schools like Chicago State are labeled as wasteful, poorly run, money-drainers that offer little return on investment. They are expendable and so are their students. If you have any doubts about Rauner and Madigan's intentions, consider this: About 30 percent of Chicago State's funding, roughly $36 million a year, comes from the state. There are lots of other ways the nearly bankrupt state could put that money to use. The university has made it clear that unless the General Assembly comes up with some cash soon, the school will run out of operating funds next month. And the only alternative could be shutting its doors. The financial crisis also has put Chicago State's accreditation at risk. Without accreditation, the school can't survive. Its mostly low-income students will lose their federal financial aid. And if they want to transfer, the credits they've earned likely will be worthless at another school. Rauner and Madigan clearly don't care about that. They won't even sit down and talk about a possible solution. It would benefit all of Illinois if the two most powerful politicians in Springfield could agree on a statewide budget and break the stalemate that is in its eighth month. There's no indication that will happen any time soon. In the meantime, it would be a great service to the students at Chicago State if the General Assembly could just release some emergency funds. So far, the powers in Springfield haven't been interested in doing that either. Advertisement When Democrats came up with a plan to free up $721 million for community colleges and scholarships for low-income students, Rauner was quick to veto it. Now Democratic Rep. Ken Dunkin of Chicago has introduced a bill to provide $160 million for Chicago State and other state colleges and universities that are struggling to keep their doors open. Interestingly, Rauner has said he could support that bill. But the legislation likely will never make its way through the General Assembly because Madigan won't allow it. The Democrats have labeled Dunkin a traitor for breaking away and voting with Republicans on key issues backed by the governor. To reach an agreement on such a bill would be too much like a compromise, and neither side is up for that. So the students get to keep hanging in limbo. If ever Chicago State has been most needed, it is now. At a time when too many of the city's young African-Americans are falling victim to crime and violence, these students are charting another course. They have dared to dream of a future as contributing members of society leaders, scholars and trailblazers. They are young men and women to whom the negative stereotypes do not apply. All they want is a chance to prove themselves. But everyone keeps telling them no. Advertisement Madigan and Rauner aren't the first to fail these young people. Over the years, so has the leadership at Chicago State. Under President Emeritus Wayne Watson, who retires at the end of his contract in June, student enrollment declined 28 percent from when he took the helm in 2009. In more than half of the classes, there are fewer than 20 students. Only about 20 percent of students graduate in six years. That's a horrible record. But let's not place the blame entirely on the students. Most of them come from the Chicago metro area and are from low socioeconomic communities. That poses particular challenges for some students, but it doesn't mean they're not smart. It's the responsibility of the university to provide support services to help them succeed. The problems at Chicago State can be fixed, and they must. Last month, a new president took over. Thomas Calhoun, the former vice president of enrollment management at the University of North Alabama, holds a lot of promise. But the community must hold him accountable for growing enrollment, challenging students to perform better and setting high standards for achievement. Rauner, Madigan and the entire General Assembly must also be held accountable for making sure the university remains open for students who have no other college options. Advertisement It's time for the state legislators to stop whimpering behind Rauner and Madigan like scared little puppies and act in the best interest of their constituency. The General Assembly can't keep getting a pass on issues that involve the futures of our young people. It's easier for them to go along with the program than to stand up to the bullies in Springfield. But on March 15, all 118 seats in the Illinois House are up for election, and 40 in the Senate. Maybe it's time for constituents to remind these lawmakers that they can be bullies too. There's nothing more frightening than a bully in a voting booth. dglanton@tribpub.com Twitter @dahleeng Latia Crockett-Holder, 23, cleans her face while getting ready for school on West Lawrence Avenue under Lake Shore Drive on Jan. 27, 2016, in Chicago. (Armando L. Sanchez / Chicago Tribune) On a frigid winter morning, Latia Crockett-Holder, 23, emerges from her tent beneath a crumbling Uptown overpass in her stocking feet. In the dim viaduct, where the streetlights are out and water drips from melting icicles like stalactites in a cavern, Crockett-Holder pulls two sheets of baby wipes from a box to wash her face. She squirts toothpaste from a small tube directly into her mouth, brushes and spits into the street. Advertisement Then Crockett-Holder laces up her boots, slings a book bag over her shoulder and heads off to the No. 148 bus a block away. She has a 10:45 a.m. economics class at MacCormac College in the Loop. Crockett-Holder is studying criminal justice and dreams of a career in law enforcement. Advertisement It's an unlikely goal for a woman living in the tent city that has sprouted beneath an Uptown overpass. For the last five months, she's lived in an overstuffed tent that she shares with her husband and his stepfather. Inside the tent, she wears a headlamp to study. Latia Crockett-Holder speaks about her experience as a homeless student. (Armando L. Sanchez and Brian Nguyen/Chicago Tribune) (Chicago Tribune) She's been saving money from government assistance in an effort to get into an apartment. "I could get (more) done in the house and not being in the tent doing homework," she said. "That's like the hardest thing ever. You're bunched up in one tent and you can't stay focused. You hear people outside your tent arguing and you can't study." Young people like Crockett-Holder will be the subject of an upcoming study by the University of Chicago's Chapin Hall research center. Starting in May, the center plans to conduct a first-of-its-kind count of homeless and runaway young people in more than two dozen communities across the country. Researchers will attempt to survey homeless people from ages 14 to 24 in urban, suburban and rural communities. The resulting report is expected to produce state and national estimates on the number of homeless young people and, hopefully, serve as a boilerplate for future research and policy, according to Bryan Samuels, executive director of Chapin Hall. "Part of the beauty of doing it for the first time is that we'll do it, publish it and make it all available to everybody, so everything behind the estimate can serve as a methodology that others can improve upon over time," Samuels said. The Chapin Hall initiative deviates from biennial homeless counts mandated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Those counts are carried out in the last week of January, typically the coldest time of year, with the thought that it's the best time to get an accurate count of homeless people in shelters. Last year, researchers counted 6,786 people in shelters and on the streets, nearly 2,000 of them 24 and younger, according to a report from Chicago's Department of Family & Support Services. The HUD-required counts have "historically focused on adults," who are more likely to take advantage of shelters and other services during the winter, Samuels said. Advertisement Chapin Hall's Voices of Youth Count will also have a much more sweeping definition of homelessness that will encompass definitions used by HUD, the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services and the U.S. Department of Education. In recent years, social service agencies in major cities have added youth-specific counts. After performing its first supplemental youth-specific count last year, DFSS declined to do one this January in the hope that Chicago would be included in the Chapin Hall count. Crockett-Holder said she has been homeless for much of her life. After a dispute with her family in west suburban Melrose Park, she bounced between homeless shelters, where often a nightly lottery would determine whether she would have a bed. She eventually settled for sleeping under the viaducts of Uptown, often with nothing more than a pillow and blanket. That's where DFSS workers found her during the city's general homeless count in late January. They pleaded with Crockett-Holder to come to a local shelter, but she refused. She told them she was applying for a two-bedroom apartment she thought she could afford and hoped to be moving in on Feb. 5. "We try to focus on getting them off the streets on a cold night like this," said Lisa Morrison Butler, the department commissioner. "Our homeless outreach teams, they're out here three days a week checking in with people and offering them shelter again and again and again. Sometimes they don't trust us in the beginning. We have to keep coming back and offering them. And, maybe, on the 50th time, they say, 'Yes.'" The next day, Crockett-Holder headed off to school. She sat in the back row of her sociology class, scrawling in her notebook as professor Joanne Howard engaged students on the topic of poverty. Advertisement "We think poverty can be eradicated," Howard said. "We also think it will not be eradicated in our lifetimes. We're a little pessimistic in the room. "But we think that our primary and secondary groups can assist us. What are some of lessons we learn from them?" Students came out with a number of answers. "Interaction." "How to be self-sufficient." "Emotional development." "Dysfunction," one student said to his classmates' laughter. "Well," Howard continued smiling, "we can't learn dysfunction," "Motivation," Crockett-Holder said. Advertisement "Motivation is a key thing" Howard said. Howard had learned Crockett-Holder was homeless only about a week earlier when she went to each of her professors with a doctor's note indicating she was having emotional issues as a result of medication she was taking. Crockett-Holder went on to divulge she had been suffering from depression because she was homeless. She assured her teachers she'd be better soon, since she expected to be moving into an apartment. "A number of students, especially first-generation college students, have various hardships," Howard said in an interview later. "I've had students who were autistic, students who were blind and students with various disabilities and different aspects of mental illness and depression. So Latia is not very different from them. But she has a lot of resilience, and I appreciate that." Crockett-Holder interviewed with the manager of the building where she hoped to land an apartment. But the move-in date came and went without a call. Daywatch Weekdays Start each day with Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox. > After several weeks of waiting, she was still living in her tent, coming to terms with her disappointment. Advertisement "It's in God's hands," she said. In the middle of one of her recent classes, however, Crockett-Holder was surprised by an email from the building manager. Crockett-Holder and her family are set to move into an apartment this week. On Sunday night, she enjoyed a few final moments with her tent city neighbors, wearing a beaming smile. "We're moving off the streets," she said. tbriscoe@tribpub.com Twitter @_tonybriscoe A mix of freezing rain, snow and sleet hit the Chicago area overnight into the morning rush hour, with snow expected to follow after a brief morning break. Driving conditions were slow and slippery from ice and, to the north, wind-blown snow Tuesday morning. State police reported several minor accidents but no serious injuries. A hit-and-run accident was reported on the outbound Kennedy near Irving Park around 5:30 a.m. One person was taken to a hospital with minor injuries, state police said. On the Skyway, a semi collided with a car near 98th Street, but no injuries were reported. Green Line trains experienced delays after track conditions from Cermak south to 63rd briefly stopped trains around 5:55 a.m. No major Metra delays were reported. More than 400 flights were canceled at Chicago's airports, around 365 at O'Hare and 55 at Midway, according to FlightStats. The cold front arrived late Monday afternoon, dropping temperatures at O'Hare from 50 degrees at 4 p.m. to 35 degrees at 5 p.m., according to the National Weather Service. The heaviest snow overnight hit the northern-tier counties along the Illinois-Wisconsin state line, with as much as 2 1/2 inches of snow, tapering off to less than 2 inches south of Interstate 80. A winter weather advisory was in effect farther north and east across Wisconsin, the northern tier of Indiana counties for freezing rain, sleet and up to 4 inches of snow, and much of Lower Michigan for heavy snow. A winter storm warning for 5 to 10 inches of heavy wet snow was in effect for central lower Michigan Tuesday into the overnight hours. The federal government wants Kevin Johnson to remain in custody after he is released from an Illinois prison. (Illinois Department of Corrections) On a summer morning nearly three years ago, residents of downstate Morris awoke to a peculiar sight. Minks were everywhere. Running through yards, darting under parked cars, scurrying across farm roads on the way into town. Dozens of the animals lay dead in the road, killed by traffic. Others splashed in lawn sprinklers to escape the heat. In the middle of the night, two California animal rights activists had broken into a local mink farm wearing balaclavas and armed with bolt cutters and released more than 2,000 of the furry creatures, federal prosecutors say. The owners found cages emptied and their business ruined. Spray-painted on the side of their barn were the words "LIBERATION IS LOVE." Advertisement In federal court Monday, one of the activists, Kevin Johnson, was sentenced to three years in prison and ordered to pay $200,000 in restitution to the victims of the sabotage. In handing down the sentence, U.S. District Judge Amy St. Eve said she was troubled by the "escalation" of Johnson's activism over the years and that previous stints behind bars have not seemed to deter him. She also noted that his actions on the mink farm that night caused suffering for many of the animals he professed to want to save. In all, more than 550 of the minks died, many painfully, the judge said. Advertisement Johnson, 29, pleaded guilty last year to one count of conspiring to travel across state lines to interfere with the operations of an animal enterprise. Before he was sentenced, Johnson choked back tears as he apologized for the attack, saying he has finally realized after nearly a decade of arrests that committing criminal acts was not an acceptable form of protest. "I'm tired of it. I don't want it for my life," Johnson said, leaning forward into the microphone as the farm's owners looked on from the courtroom gallery. "I see these old guys in jail, all their best days are behind them and they're still going back. I'm not going to be that guy." With time already served, Johnson could be released in as little as three months, according to his lawyer, Michael Deutsch. When he is released, Johnson will spend up to a year at an inpatient center near his home in California, where he will get treatment for mental health issues and receive job placement assistance, Deutsch said. Johnson and his longtime friend, Tyler Lang, were in the midst of a cross-country journey to sabotage animal farms when they were arrested in August 2013. According to Johnson's plea agreement with prosecutors, after he and Lang freed the minks from the Morris farm, they poured caustic substances over two farm vehicles, causing significant damage, and destroyed cards from the minks' cages that identified their breed and are required for their sale. When police stopped them two days later, they were just a few miles from a fox farm in Woodford County that they planned to sabotage as well, authorities said. Among the items seized from Johnson's vehicle were five bottles of muriatic acid, two bottles of bleach and a container of hydrogen peroxide, all ingredients for a homemade incendiary device. Also found were books titled "Thinking Like a Terrorist" and "Unconventional Warfare Devices and Techniques," prosecutors said. Lang, 27, has pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced next month. The owner of the farm, Robert Rodeghero, told the judge during the hearing that he'd started raising minks as a hobby in 1979 and eventually built a business he hoped would supplement his factory worker's pension. After the attack, Rodeghero and his employees were able to corral about 1,600 of the freed minks, but the damage to the skittish and "high-strung" animals was done, he said. About 150 died in their cages in the days after their recapture. Advertisement He and his wife also suffered psychologically, Rodeghero said. For two weeks after the incident, he slept outside by the minks' cages with a loaded gun at the ready. In asking for at least three years in prison, prosecutors said that while Johnson's ideas about animal rights "are noble," the tactics he has chosen have become increasingly violent and undermine law-abiding activists who try to make change through legal protest. Daywatch Weekdays Start each day with Chicago Tribune editors' top story picks, delivered to your inbox. > "(Johnson) has stalked, stolen, harassed, and threatened to make his point," Assistant U.S. Attorney Bethany Biesenthal wrote in a court filing. "... His past shows an escalating dangerousness." Records show Johnson has a long criminal record in California. He first came to the attention of law enforcement during a protest against juice company executives in Santa Monica in 2006. Video from the protests showed Johnson screaming on a bullhorn outside the executives' homes, threatening to harm them and their families, according to prosecutors. He was convicted of burglary and served time in prison. Three years later, Johnson was arrested after threatening some UCLA professors over their use of animals in research. He later pleaded guilty to criminal stalking and served about 1 1/2 years in prison, prosecutors said. In May 2012, five months after his release on parole, Johnson was arrested for shoplifting and inciting a riot, prosecutors said. Later that year he was arrested for attempting to burglarize a pharmacy, and when authorities searched a laptop computer found in Johnson's car, they found personal information on scientific researchers and their families, according to prosecutors. Advertisement His mother, Tracy Rich, told the judge her son is highly intelligent and loving but has long battled depression and mental illness. jmeisner@tribpub.com Twitter @jmetr22b Some parents expressed outrage after two Barrington High School students staged a skit about a slave auction. Feb. 28, 2016. (CBS Chicago) Barrington High School has issued an apology after students at a convention on Greek and Roman culture staged a skit about a slave auction. The students were attending the Illinois Junior Classical League Convention at the Westin Hotel in Itasca. A parent took a cellphone video of the skit, in which a student portrayed a slave in chains being sold. Advertisement "The Barrington School District offers sincere apologies to those offended by a skit our high school Latin students conducted at the Illinois Junior Classical Convention in Itasca this weekend," the school said in a statement posted on its Facebook page. Morgan Delack, spokeswoman for Barrington School District 220, said the 45-second skit was "meant to be an introduction of students depicting slavery in ancient Rome." Advertisement "Clearly, it did not come off as humorous, but there was no maliciousness or cultural insensitivity intended," Delack said. "I think the group of students understood that some people were offended." Delack said the Latin teacher who was in charge of the students, Chris Condrad, publicly apologized at the convention before it was over. She said Condrad did not review the skit before his students performed it. Delack said she didn't think Condrad nor his students would be disciplined. Condrad did have a conversation about the incident with Principal Steve McWilliams, Delack said. Condrad did not return a call or email seeking comment. Delack said the teacher would not be commenting on the matter. "This is a teachable moment and now these students can reflect back on their actions and learn from it," Delack said. According to the school district's website, Condrad has been teaching at Barrington High School for 13 years. The Illinois Junior Classical League Convention says on its website that its purpose "is to encourage an interest in and an appreciation of the language, literature and culture of ancient Greece and Rome and to impart an understanding of the debt of our own culture to that of Classical antiquity." Advertisement tshields@pioneerlocal.com Twitter: @tshields19 The number of homicides so far this year in Chicago climbed past 100 over the weekend, the deadliest start to a year in the city in nearly two decades, according to statistics kept by the Police Department and the Tribune.At least two people were killed and 24 were wounded between Friday afternoon and Sunday evening. One of those killed was Shari Graham, a 30-year-old mother of three small children who was shot in the head Friday night as she sat in a cab about two blocks south of U.S. Cellular Field.Graham was at least the 101st homicide in the city this year. She had returned to Chicago just before Christmas. Her family said she moved back for a fresh start and hoped to land a job as a nurse.The next afternoon, Eric D. Henry Jr. was sitting in a car with a woman in the Gresham neighborhood when someone walked up and fired, police said. Henry was shot in the head and died at the scene just after 4 p.m. The woman was shot in the jaw and leg and was listed in serious condition at Advocate Christ Medical Center in Oak Lawn.Throughout much of the month, homicides had been running nearly double the same time last year. By Sunday evening, the total stood at 102 compared with 52 on Feb. 28 last year, according to a database kept by the Tribune. Those numbers cover all violent deaths, including a man shot by police and two people killed by a shop owner during a robbery, a shooting considered justified by investigators.Murder statistics kept by the Police Department include only those violent deaths considered criminal. By the department's measure, there have been 95 murders so far this year. There hasn't been a deadlier start to the year since 1997, when the department posted 101 murders in the first two months.Since then, there have been three years that the city saw more than 70 murders over January and February: 1999 (95), 2000 (85) and 2002 (77). In the last decade, there haven't been more than 66 murders during the first two months.Murders began rising sharply in Chicago in the mid- to late 1960s, peaking in 1992 with 943 murders before gradually declining. In 1997, the number was 796. Last year, it was 468, by the department's measurement.There has been an even bigger spike in the number of people shot in the city this year. As of Monday, at least 467 people had been shot compared with 217 the same period last year more than double, according to statistics kept by the Tribune.By the end of last year, more than 2,900 people had been shot. That was 13 percent more than the previous year. The number of homicides was up by nearly 13 percent from 2014.Despite being the nation's third most populous city, Chicago far outpaces New York City, Los Angeles and every other large city in America in the sheer number of homicide and shooting victims. It fares better than some smaller cities on a per capita comparison. Kim Foxx, candidate for Cook County state's attorney, at an early-voting rally at the Daley Plaza in downtown Chicago on Feb. 29, 2016. (Jose M. Osorio / Chicago Tribune) Cook County state's attorney challenger Kim Foxx was hit with nearly $20,000 in fines from the State Board of Elections on Monday for failing to report a campaign poll paid for by County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and for not meeting various other deadlines to file campaign disclosure forms. The fines were levied for filing a quarterly campaign report 73 days late last year, and for reporting 10 individual contributions of $1,000 or more one day late, in addition to failing to report the $25,000 Preckwinkle spent on a poll for Foxx as a campaign contribution. Foxx's campaign will be required to pay a total of $19,450, state elections officials said. Advertisement State's Attorney Anita Alvarez's campaign filed the complaint against Foxx for not reporting the poll. "How can we trust Kim Foxx to enforce the law as state's attorney when she's repeatedly proved herself unwilling or unable to follow the law as a candidate?" Alvarez spokesman Mike Carson said in a statement. Foxx spokesman Robert Foley said the campaign intends to appeal the fines. Advertisement The election board decision came as Foxx and fellow challenger Donna More questioned Alvarez's use of an image of the mother of teenage murder victim Derrion Albert in a campaign ad. Anjanette Albert said Monday that the Alvarez campaign did not get her OK to use the photo, which shows her standing next to Alvarez at a news conference where the state's attorney discussed a murder trial against one of the people charged in Derrion Albert's notorious 2009 beating death. Cellphone footage showed the teen getting struck with a board and beaten during a melee near Fenger High School. "I didn't know anything about it," Anjanette Albert said of the ad. "I would never have given permission for that." Alvarez campaign spokesman Ken Snyder said the campaign has removed the picture of Albert from the ad, which will continue to run in its revised format. Snyder said the campaign was not aware it was Albert in the photo when they decided to use it. "We apologize to Mrs. Albert," Snyder said. "We certainly didn't mean to upset her. The state's attorney's office worked very hard for Mrs. Albert in convicting the murderers of her son." Anjanette Albert on Monday declined to say who she's supporting in the campaign, but said "I'm not supporting (Alvarez)." Andrew Stroth, an attorney who represents Albert, later said the teen's mother is supporting Foxx, saying the challenger was supportive of Albert when she was going through the travails of the criminal trials against those charged in her son's murder. "So they have had a relationship for a long time, and Anjanette believes in Kim Foxx and that's why it's particularly upsetting to her that the Alvarez campaign would use her image in this way," Stroth said. The Chicago Sun-Times first reported the flap over the ad. Advertisement More said Alvarez should have checked with Albert before using the image. Foxx said Alvarez exploited the image of Albert. Last week, Alvarez blasted Foxx for including several seconds of the police dash-cam video of Laquan McDonald's fatal shooting in a campaign ad. The footage in the Foxx ad depicts McDonald walking down the middle of Pulaski Road just before police Officer Jason Van Dyke opens fire, striking the 17-year-old 16 times. The shooting is not shown in the ad. Alvarez has faced withering criticism for not charging Van Dyke until more than a year after the shooting took place, and just hours before a judge ordered the video released. Alvarez has defended her handling of the investigation, saying she was working with federal investigators to build a strong case against Van Dyke. Alvarez said last week that it's "appalling" that Foxx used the footage from the video in a campaign ad. "It is a lack of decency that someone is trying to, you know, gain cheap political points on the death of a young man and a video that shows someone being shot," Alvarez said. jebyrne@tribpub.com Advertisement Twitter @_johnbyrne Early voting for the March 15 Illinois primary starts Monday. Here, Adrienne Alexander and Margaret Lyons, from left, cast their ballots on the first day of early voting in March 2014. (Michael Tercha/Chicago Tribune) Welcome to Clout Street: Morning Spin, our weekday feature to catch you up with what's going on in government and politics from Chicago to Springfield. Topspin In-person early voting for the March 15 primary election starts at 9 a.m. Monday at 50 locations in Chicago, 43 others across suburban Cook County and throughout the collar counties. Advertisement In Chicago, 14 locations will hold early voting until March 14, and another 37 will have it until March 12. See the full list here. The suburban Cook early voting spots are here. Advertisement Voting has been going on at the Chicago Board of Elections in the Loop since mid-month. On the Democratic side, the top of the ticket features a presidential contest between former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. Second from the top is the U.S. Senate race between U.S. Rep. Tammy Duckworth, former Chicago Urban League CEO Andrea Zopp and state Sen. Napoleon Harris. And there's the heated contest for Cook County state's attorney featuring two-term incumbent Anita Alvarez and challengers Kim Foxx and Donna More. On the Republican side, the presidential campaign tops the ballot, with businessman and former reality show star Donald Trump, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, Ohio Gov. John Kasich and Dr. Ben Carson running. Republican U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk faces a little-known and underfunded opponent, James Marter of Oswego. No-excuse early voting began in Illinois in 2006, billed as a response to declining voter turnout on Election Day. It has been the subject of much political wrangling since, with Democrats generally favoring expanding it and Republicans responding more cautiously to the idea. Early-voting numbers have risen more or less steadily as a portion of total votes cast in elections for years, as voters have embraced the flexibility it affords and campaign organizations have grown more adept at identifying supporters of their candidates and pressing them to go to the polls ahead of time rather than wait until Election Day and risk not making it. The Chicago Board of Election Commissioners and Cook County Clerk David Orr will hold an early-voting kickoff news conference at the Museum of Broadcast Communications Monday morning. This is the third presidential election cycle with early voting, according to Jim Allen, spokesman for the city elections agency. The 2008 primary, which was held in early February to boost the chances of home-state candidate Barack Obama, had the most early-voting ballots cast, Allen said. (John Byrne) What's on tap *Mayor Rahm Emanuel has one public event scheduled: to participate in early voting. Advertisement *Gov. Bruce Rauner will continue his statewide tour on education funding with an appearance in Rockford and a news conference at the Thompson Center in Chicago. *Week ahead: The publishers of the two Chicago daily newspapers will talk about "The Future of Print Media" on Monday at a City Club of Chicago luncheon. On Tuesday : Super Tuesday arrives, with a dozen states holding presidential primaries and caucuses; state Sen. Napoleon Harris of Harvey, a Democratic U.S. Senate hopeful, will speak at the City Club; and the 8th Congressional District Democrats debate on WTTW's "Chicago Tonight." On Wednesday: the 10th Congressional District candidates debate on "Chicago Tonight." What we're writing *Alvarez goes on the offense in first televised debate. *Emanuel says police protesters should join discussion, not try to end it. *Chicago often tests water for lead in homes where risk is low. *Chicago State University sends out layoff notices. What we're reading *Two Michigan state lawmakers forced from office over affair face felony charges. Advertisement *Asked to switch plane seats, she's suing over sexism. *Would you pay $200 to get four bottles of the highest-rated beers in the world? *The Oscars were last night. From the notebook *Chicago State audit: A new state audit of Chicago State University found the school is collectively owed more than $10 million by thousands of its students, with CSU officials saying "economic conditions" have made it difficult for students to pay off their debts. The report came as university officials sent a memo to all 900 employees warning of potential layoffs, just days after the school announced it would cut the academic year short by canceling spring break and moving up dates for final exams and commencement ceremonies. Both moves are the latest attempts for Chicago State, which has a largely low-income student body, to keep its doors open through the end of the semester as the state enters its ninth month without a budget. Advertisement But with students unable to make payments, the university's financial problems continue to escalate. As of Nov. 11, CSU had 5,788 accounts with debts to the university exceeding $1,000 that are more than 90 days past due, amounting to $10.7 million overall, according to the audit. State auditors found the university also has an unusually high default rate for federal Perkins loans that the school backs, standing at 20.59 percent. The U.S. Department of Education recommends that figure should not exceed 15 percent. Staff cuts in the university's collections department have made it difficult for the university to collect on both unpaid tuition bills and federal loans, university officials said in response to the audit. The university has long struggled with financial mismanagement often highlighted in Auditor General reports, though both the examination released Friday and a financial audit in December turned up considerably fewer problems than in years past. Last month, CSU was the subject of a critical memo from the Rauner administration, which cited prior audits and blamed the university's financial crisis on wasteful spending and corruption, calling for cost-cutting reforms to be tied to funding for higher education and scholarships for low-income students. The Rauner administration declined to comment on the latest findings. (Celeste Bott) *LaHoods split on presidential candidates: Former federal transportation secretary and Illinois congressman Ray LaHood has endorsed Ohio Gov. John Kasich's Republican presidential bid. Advertisement The Kasich campaign announced that LaHood, who served in Congress for central Illinois for 14 years, will be a co-chairman of the presidential effort in the state. That puts LaHood at odds with his son, Darin, who now represents much of the same region in Congress. Darin LaHood is a co-chair for Florida Gov. Marco Rubio's presidential bid. In a statement, the elder LaHood said: "I served alongside John Kasich in Congress when he was chairman of the Budget Committee and led the way to balance the federal budget. I have always admired his ability to bring people together to get things done." But Ray LaHood's move to Kasich might have its critics. LaHood served as the first transportation secretary in the Cabinet of Democratic President Barack Obama from 2009 to 2013. (Rick Pearson) *Driving voter registration: The group iVote, made up of voting-rights advocates, says that 62 candidates for the Illinois General Assembly have pledged to support legislation that would make voter registration automatic when people get or renew a driver's license or a state ID card. The organization estimates more than 2 million people in Illinois are eligible to vote but aren't registered. It says the secretary of state's office, which issues driver's licenses and IDs already can check the eligibility and register voters through the current motor-voter law that has employees ask if people want to register to vote. Advertisement The measure, introduced by state Sen. Andy Manar, D-Bunker Hill, would change the current system from an opt-in to register to vote to opt-out if someone doesn't want to register. "Automatic voter registration is a completely bipartisan issue in my mind. It would replace our costly, inefficient and outdated system that's currently in place." Manar said in a statement. "We should not be content with only having a small fraction of eligible Illinoisans voting. We should strive for 100 percent." Similar legislation has been enacted in Oregon and California and bills have been introduced in more than 30 states. (Rick Pearson) *Lisa Madigan backing clean power plan: Environmentalists are touting that nearly 2,100 people across the state joined a conference call in which Attorney General Lisa Madigan contended the federal Environmental Protection Agency's "Clean Power Plan" will withstand a court review. In the conference call sponsored by the Sierra Club of Illinois, Madigan said the plan should survive a legal challenge brought by opponents. The U.S. Supreme Court issued a temporary stay of the plan's rules in January. "The Clean Power Plan is legally justified and absolutely critical to our efforts to fight harmful carbon pollution. I will continue to work with the coalition of states and local governments to vigorously defend" it, Madigan said. Advertisement Environmental groups have urged Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner to move forward with the plan's rules and help build a green energy economy and create related jobs in the state. Rauner's administration has not made any announcement about Illinois' intentions. (Rick Pearson) *Kirk miffed by outside ads: Republican U.S. Sen. Mark Kirk is blasting an ad aimed at helping Democratic candidate and U.S. Rep. Tammy Duckworth, calling it "blatantly false and dishonest." The advertising by the VoteVets Action Fund contended Kirk voted against a measure for new military equipment and repair. Kirk's office said it was a vote against funds for "quality-of-life enhancements for U.S. service members" and not equipment. The group also cited a 2014 vote by Kirk against a $21 billion package that would have expanded veterans' care. Kirk's camp said the package was ultimately included in an overall appropriations bill that the Republican voted for. (Rick Pearson) *Circuit clerk endorsement: Cook County Commissioner Jesus "Chuy" Garcia, fresh off his endorsement of establishment Democrat Mike Madigan, the House speaker, has backed challenger Jacob Meister for circuit court clerk. Meister and 8th Ward Ald. Michelle Harris are trying to unseat four-term incumbent Dorothy Brown, whose office is under federal investigation. *The Sunday Spin: On Sunday's show, Tribune reporter Hal Dardick talked about the Cook County state's attorney's race; Brad Cole, director of the Illinois Municipal League, discussed the group's legislative reform package; and Democratic state Rep. Lou Lang talked about the state budget situation. Full show here. Advertisement Follow the money *Illinois Sunshine project breaks down presidential campaign contributions from Illinois. *Track campaign contribution reports in real time with this Tribune Twitter account: https://twitter.com/ILCampaignCash Beyond Chicago *Presidential race, Republican side: GOP powers that be find it tough to derail Trump. *Presidential race, Democratic side: Clinton's big S.C. win could mean trouble for Sanders on Super Tuesday. *NYT series on Clinton, Obama and the Libyan dictator. *Melissa Harris-Perry out at MSNBC. MEXICO CITY Former Mexican President Felipe Calderon on Saturday joined his predecessor in office in unloading on Donald Trump, calling the Republican front-runner's campaign racist and saying his discourse on immigration is fueling anti-American sentiment around the world. Calderon, a conservative who was president of Mexico from 2006 to 2012, even said he thought Trump was trying to exploit the same social feelings and resentments as did Adolf Hitler. "I think his logic of exalting white supremacy isn't even acting against immigration Donald Trump is the descendant of migrants it is acting and speaking against immigrants who have a different skin color than him, which is frankly racist and is a bit like the exploitation of raw nerves that Hitler did in his day," Calderon told reporters after a meeting of the National Action Party, or PAN, in Mexico City. Calderon's comments parallel those made earlier by former President Vicente Fox, who preceded Calderon in office and also belonged to the PAN party. In interviews with Univision and Mexican media, Fox called Trump "crazy," a "false prophet" and an embarrassment to his party. When asked about Trump's assertion that he was going to get Mexico to pay for his proposed border wall, Fox used an explicative to make his point the country would never do so. Trump said Fox ought to be "ashamed of himself" for his vulgarity and demanded an apology. Trump has angered many Mexicans for his campaign rhetoric denigrating some immigrants as "rapists" who bring crime and drugs to the United States. Threats of mass deportations of Mexicans and other migrants illegally in the country, along with his promise to build a wall separating the nations, have added to the bad feelings. Calderon said Trump's discourse is "sowing hate" against the United States around the world and this is not is Washington's interest. Advertisement FMR PRES of Mexico, Vicente Fox horribly used the F word when discussing the wall. He must apologize! If I did that there would be a uproar! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 25, 2016 During a visit to Mexico's capital, Vice President Joe Biden apologized for the inflammatory rhetoric about Mexico in the U.S. presidential campaign. "Some of the rhetoric coming from some of the presidential candidates on the other team are I think dangerous, damaging and incredibly ill-advised," Biden said on Thursday. "But here's what I'm here to tell you: They do not, they do not, they do not represent the view of the vast majority of the American people." Associated Press People gather at the scene of deadly bombing attacks in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016. (Ali Abdul Hassan / AP) BAGHDAD Militants attacked an outdoor market on Sunday in eastern Baghdad, killing at least 59 people and wounding nearly 100, officials said. A bomb ripped through the crowded Mredi market in the Shiite district of Sadr City, a police officer said. Minutes later, a suicide bomber blew himself up amid the crowd that had gathered at the site of the first bombing, he added. Advertisement Interior Ministry spokesman Sad Main said the bombings killed 38 people and wounded another 62. Multiple hospital officials later increased the casualty toll to 59 dead and 95 wounded. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to release information. Advertisement The attack was the deadliest in a wave of recent explosions that have targeted commercial areas in and outside Baghdad. In the town of Mahmoudiya, about 20 miles south of Baghdad, three shoppers were killed and 10 wounded in a bomb explosion, another police officer said. Four others were killed in a separate bomb attack in Baghdad's southern Dora neighborhood, he added. The Islamic State-affiliated Aamaq news agency later claimed responsibility for the Sadr City bombings. The militant Sunni Muslim group controls key areas in northern and western Iraq and regularly targets government forces, civilians and especially Shiites, who the IS regards as heretics. The attacks came hours after security forces repelled an attack by IS militants on the capital's western suburb of Abu Ghraib, officials said. Three suicide car bombers struck a security force barracks as gunmen opened fire, according to two police officers. At least 12 members of government and paramilitary security forces were killed and 35 wounded, they added. The clashes left a silo on fire, they said. The commander of military operations in western Baghdad, Maj. Gen Saad Harbiya, said the situation is "under control" and a local curfew has been imposed. Abu Ghraib, about 18 miles (29 kilometers) from downtown Baghdad, is the location of a prison of the same name where U.S. troops committed notorious abuses against Iraqi detainees following the 2003 invasion. Citing the unstable security situation in the surrounding area, Iraqi authorities closed the prison in April 2014. It is halfway between Baghdad and Fallujah, which is controlled by the IS group. Security forces prevented IS from seizing Abu Ghraib when the extremists swept across northern and western Iraq in the summer of 2014. Advertisement Associated Press Hillary Clinton won the South Carolina Democratic primary on Saturday, registering her second straight win in the Democratic nominating contest and serving notice that Bernie Sanders could indeed be running into her firewall. While the result wasn't surprising, there was plenty going on beneath the topline numbers. Below, we break down some of the winners and losers. Advertisement Winners Hillary Clinton: No, this win was not unexpected, but it is still a win for Clinton -- and it appears to be an absolute drubbing. She has now won two straight states, and she is clearly the momentum candidate heading into Super Tuesday -- which is, after all, just a couple days away. The question from here is whether Clinton can begin to put the race away in short order or if Sanders can hang around somehow -- despite increasingly daunting delegate math. That's a far different conversation than we were having after Clinton got blown out in the New Hampshire primary two and a half weeks ago. Advertisement Black voters: Eight years after South Carolina sent Barack Obama further on his way to becoming the first black president, black voters sent a message Saturday that was loud and clear: We aren't going anywhere. Early exit poll numbers suggest the black share of the electorate could hit a new record -- about 6 in 10 voters in Saturday's primary. That would exceed even the percentage in 2008, when the eventual first black president was on the ballot. That record turnout comes after a South Carolina campaign that was focused intently on wooing black voters -- even more so than in 2008. The combination of those two things mean black voters just asserted themselves as a real force in 2016. The media: The media gets a lot of guff when its analysis doesn't match up with reality. (See: Trump, Donald.) But in South Carolina, the media theory that black voters represented some kind of "firewall" for Clinton got a big vote of confidence. In fact, the media might even have understated it, for fear of missing a late Sanders surge among black voters. The media has been surprised before, after all! Now, the black vote in other "firewall" states might not follow suit, but if it's anywhere close, the firewall remains intact. Losers Bernie Sanders: We pretty much knew this wasn't going to be close, but it turned into a disaster for Sanders. Yes, it's one state, but Sanders had one task here: To beat expectations when it comes to black voters. He didn't do that -- at all. He lost their votes a whopping 87-13, according to the most recent exit polls. A while back, a top Sanders adviser mused that he could win South Carolina with 30 percent of the black vote; that proved to be a foolhardy goal. And it's not just that black voters like Clinton better; they didn't seem to trust Sanders either. Just 52 percent said they would trust Sanders to handle race relations. Nearly 9 in 10 said the same of Clinton. Given Super Tuesday is heavy on Southern states -- Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia -- this is very troubling for Team Sanders. That's four of the 12 states with the highest black populations. Louisiana follows four days later, and Mississippi will be March 15, alongside Michigan. Sanders can't just cede all of these states and focus on the Northeast and the West. Sanders' single-minded income inequality message: Just 21 percent of voters in South Carolina said income inequality was their most important issue. About twice as many named the economy and jobs, while 22 percent said health care, and 10 percent said terrorism. Sanders needs more people to believe income inequality is Issue No. 1 for them -- because it is for him. Cable news: Look, this campaign has been great for the news business. It has big personalities (or rather, one big personality in particular), struggles for the souls of both major parties, and competitive primaries on both sides. What it has been short on, though, is election-night drama. Clinton's win was called right as the polls were closing, just as Sanders's win in New Hampshire was called immediately. The same has happened with Trump's three straight blowout wins in New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada. The only dramatic election night, in fact, was the Iowa caucuses. Even Clinton's not-huge win in Nevada was called before 6 p.m. Eastern time, thanks to the state's afternoon caucuses. It's been downright anti-climactic. Young voters: At this rate, all future candidates might as well give up on trying to build a campaign around the support of young people. Despite tens of thousands of people showing up to Sanders rallies, and young people favoring him overwhelmingly so far, they just aren't showing up to vote like he needs them to. Fewer than 1 in 6 voters in South Carolina were under the age of the 30. And it follows a pattern of young people just not giving Sanders the turnout he needs. In fact, young voters were less of the electorate there than in any of the first three states. Advertisement Dick Harpootlian: This is what happens when you make irrational projections. Via Bloomberg on Wednesday: [Former] Democratic Party chairman Dick Harpootlian, an avowed Clinton opponent who endorsed Sanders, made an assertion Monday that no poll has supported: that Sanders would surprise everyone and come within single digits in the primary. On Tuesday, Clinton spokesman Brian Fallon on Tuesday seized on that prediction, writing in a posting on Twitter: "The man knows his state." Ouch. MADISON, Ala. Sen. Jeff Sessions, R-Ala., whose hard-line conservative stances on immigration and trade have made him a favorite of the party's base, endorsed Donald Trump's White House bid during a joint appearance here in his home state on Sunday. "Politicians have promised for 30 years to fix illegal immigration. Have they done it? Donald Trump will do it," Sessions said at the Madison City Schools Stadium, where thousands gathered to hear Trump speak. "I've told Donald Trump this isn't a campaign, this is a movement." Advertisement The endorsement represents a major blow to Sen. Ted Cruz, Texas, one of Trump's two chief rivals for the Republican nomination. Cruz has touted his strict positions on border security and deportation, leaning on his strident commitment to conservative ideology as a key rationale for his candidacy. In the run-up to the March 1 Super Tuesday primary elections, Cruz has tried to undermine Trump's conservative bona fides on immigration reform, characterizing his plan as "amnesty." The announcement is the latest in a series of high-profile endorsements by prominent GOP voices including New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and former Arizona governor Jan Brewer. Sessions's appearance came as a surprise for those in attendance, who cheered when he took the stage. Advertisement "When I talk about immigration and when I talk about illegal immigration and all the problems with crime and everything else, I think of a great man," Trump said in introducing Sessions. "Sweet Home Alabama" finished playing as Trump took the stage. "That is so great. You know, he's an incredible guy," Trump said after Sessions spoke. Trump has made immigration reform and border security a linchpin of his presidential run, calling for the mass deportation of 12 million undocumented immigrants living in the United States and promising to build a massive wall alongside the U.S.-Mexico border. Many of Trump's critics have accused him of xenophobia; others have argued that his plan to build the wall - and to force Mexico to pay for it through aggressive diplomacy - is unrealistic. The Sessions endorsement also comes as Cruz and Sen. Marco Rubio, Fla., - who has been locked in a bitter fight with Cruz for second place - have made an aggressive push to characterize Trump as a false conservative who has made promises he does not intend to keep. Cruz and Sessions, one of the most conservative members of the Senate, have forged a close relationship in recent years. Cruz has regularly made reference to Sessions on the trail, emphasizing the mutual respect between the two. Sessions appeared with Cruz in Daphne, Alabama, in December and has defended the senator from Texas against accusations that he once supported a path to legal status for undocumented immigrants. Sessions has supported Cruz's claim that an amendment he offered, which stripped the bill of a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants but granted legal status, was intended as a "poison pill" that would kill the legislation. But the relationship between Trump and Sessions has slowly warmed over the past year. Starting early last year, Sessions and his advisers privately consulted with Trump on immigration policy and helped to shape the candidate's position paper. They had one extensive call in July that was confirmed by both sides and is considered the moment that Sessions began to consider backing Trump. "I like him," Trump said of Sessions when asked about that call. "Tough guy. I like that. We have a similar thought process." Advertisement By August, they were in more frequent touch - two men who shared staunch conservative views on trade and immigration. When Trump held a rally in Mobile, Alabama, in August, he did so in part because it is the home town of Sessions, whom he brought onstage as thousands roared. The senator put on a "Make America Great Again" cap. A month later, when Trump visited Washington in September for an event, he huddled with Sessions in the senator's hideaway office at the Capitol. Former Alaska governor Sarah Palin, who would later endorse Trump, joined them. Stephen Miller, who had been a top aide to Sessions, signed on with Trump's campaign in January as a senior adviser and has been traveling with the candidate to recent debates. His hire was considered the best evidence of where Sessions was leaning, as Miller had been a continual presence at Sessions's side for years. RICHMOND, Va. A former hospital worker is expected to plead guilty in the high-profile slayings of two college students in Virginia, a prosecutor said Monday. Albemarle County Commonwealth's Attorney Robert Tracci (TRAY'-cee) announced the plea agreements in Jesse LeRoy Matthew Jr.'s cases in a brief news release. Matthew is due in Albemarle County Circuit Court on Wednesday. Details of the agreement were not released. Advertisement Matthew is charged with murder in the deaths of 18-year-old Hannah Graham and 20-year-old Morgan Harrington. Without the plea agreement, he could have faced the death penalty in the Graham case had he been convicted at trial. He's already serving life in prison for a sexual assault in Fairfax County. Matthew's attorney, public capital defender Douglas Ramseur, declined to comment. Advertisement Graham's September 2014 disappearance came amid rising national concern about sexual assaults and other crimes around universities. A massive search ended when a team from a Richmond-area sheriff's office found her body five weeks later on abandoned property in Albemarle County, about 12 miles from the Charlottesville campus and 6 miles from a hayfield where Harrington's remains had been found in January 2010. Harrington had vanished while attending a Metallica concert at the University of Virginia in 2009. Authorities have not said exactly how either student died. Graham disappeared after a night out with friends in Charlottesville. In surveillance video, she can be seen walking unsteadily and running at times before crossing a seven-block strip of bars, restaurants and shops. Another video captured her leaving a restaurant with Matthew, his arm around her. He was the last person seen with Graham, according to authorities. After police named Matthew a person of interest in Graham's disappearance, he fled and was later apprehended on a beach in south Texas. He was charged with abduction with intent to defile, a felony that empowered police to swab his cheek for a DNA sample. That sample connected Matthew to a 2005 sexual assault in Fairfax County, a Virginia suburb of Washington, D.C., according to authorities. The DNA evidence in the Fairfax sexual assault, in turn, linked Matthew to the Harrington case, authorities have said. The charge against Matthew in the Graham case was later upgraded to capital murder, giving prosecutors the option to seek the death penalty. Matthew, who was a taxi driver before going to work at the University of Virginia hospital, also had been accused of raping students in 2002 and 2003 at Liberty University and Christopher Newport University, where he had played football. But those cases were dropped when the women declined to press charges. Associated Press The Army staff sergeant accused of killing his wife and a Prince William County, Virginia, police officer was held without bond Monday after being arraigned. Ronald Williams Hamilton, 32, who is also accused of wounding two other officers, appeared at two brief arraignment hearings in Prince William County via a video feed from the local jail. One was for his wife's death, the other for the attack on the officers. Hamilton only spoke to answer the judges' questions. He was flanked by sheriff's deputies during both hearings. During the second hearing, Prince William County prosecutor Paul Ebert said Hamilton had a previous conviction for assault in either South Carolina or Tennessee in 2007. Ebert declined to discuss the nature of the conviction. Ebert said after the hearing Hamilton was placed in a diversion program for 11 months following the assault conviction. Judges set hearings on the charges for April 18 and 19. According to charging documents, three Prince William County police officers who were responding on Saturday to a call for a domestic dispute went to Hamilton's front door, where they were met by him. Hamilton then opened fire from "the area of the front door" striking all three officers, the documents say. Officer Ashley Guindon died a short time later from her wounds. Two other officers remain hospitalized, but are expected to recover. Charging documents also said Hamilton admitted to police after he was taken into custody that he shot the officers and his wife. Hamilton's wife - Crystal Hamilton - was found dead in a bedroom in their house, according to charging documents. During the arraignments, judges appointed Capital Defender Edward J. Ungvarsky to represent Hamilton on all the charges he is facing. Ungvarsky told the judge Hamilton was rescinding the permission he gave to authorities to review his medical and military records. Ungvarsky also requested a gag order in the case, but the judge told him he would have to file a motion. After the hearing, Ebert said it had been a difficult couple days for the Prince William County police department. "It's an officer's worst nightmare to go on a routine call and end up dead," Ebert said. "It's taken a toll on everyone. There are very few dry eyes in that department." Guindon had been sworn in as an officer the day before, and Saturday was her first day on the street. Her slaying was only the second malicious killing of an officer in the history of the Prince William County police department. Police said Hamilton, who was stationed at the Pentagon, fatally shot his wife before officers arrived on the scene. Ebert, the prosecutor, had said he will likely pursue the death penalty against Hamilton, who is facing a total of six charges, including capital murder of a police officer, first-degree murder and two counts of malicious wounding of a police officer. The incident began around 5:40 p.m. Saturday when the officers responded to a house in the 13000 block of Lashmere Court in Woodbridge. Prince William Police Chief Stephan M. Hudson said Ronald and Crystal Hamilton had been involved in a day-long verbal altercation that escalated physically. Police said Crystal Hamilton called 911, but her husband shot her to death before officers arrived. The couple's 11-year-old son was home during the altercation and fled at some point, police said. He was not injured. Guindon's death drew an outpouring of sympathy from law enforcement professionals across the nation. The county police department had just sworn her in Friday and tweeted a photo of Guindon and another new recruit with a message: "Be safe!" Twenty-four hours later, on her first day on the street, she was one of the three officers responding to the incident with Hamilton. Guindon was remembered as someone who put "service above self," as her former professor Chris Bonner put it. She was described as passionate about police work, determined to succeed and intelligent. She was a Marine Corps Reserve veteran and a graduate of Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla. "It's the worst nightmare that could happen to any police officer and her family," said Bonner. It also was not the first tragedy Guindon's family had suffered while in uniform. Guindon's father, an Air National Guardsman, committed suicide in 2004, one day after returning from a tour in Iraq. The wounded officers - Jesse Hempen, 31, and David McKeown, 33, are eight- and 10-year veterans of the force, respectively. The nature of their injuries has not been disclosed. Police said they were still investigating whether Hamilton shot from inside or outside the home and the position of the officers when they were struck by bullets. It's also unclear how many shots were fired or whether officers fired. Officials said additional officers arrived on the scene and surrounded the house. Hamilton surrendered without further incident, and Hudson said they found Crystal Hamilton's body inside. The wounded officers were flown to Fairfax Inova Hospital, where Hudson said Guindon died. At some point during the incident, Zacarius Harris, 18, a neighbor, said he saw the Hamiltons' son running away from the house, wearing a T-shirt and basketball shorts. He was looking back at the house as he ran down the street. The boy ended up at a neighbor's house and is now in the care of family. "He ran so fast I can't even imagine how scared he must have been," Harris said. "It broke my heart." The alleged gunman's father, Ronald Whaley Hamilton, a retired major with the Charleston Police Department in South Carolina, said over the weekend that his son had a "very good upbringing." The elder Hamilton said his son joined the Army at age 18 and worked in information technology. "We are grieving the same as all the people in Prince William County, as well as the law enforcement community across the United States," Hamilton said. "Ronald has always been a calm person and a very friendly person. He had a bright future with the Army and military. We express our thoughts and condolences to everyone who is affected." Hamilton described his daughter-in-law Crystal Hamilton, 29, as a "kind, humble, energetic and wonderful person" who worked with wounded soldiers returning from Afghanistan and Iraq. He said that she and his son met after high school in South Carolina. Ebert said officers recovered two guns from the scene, a high-powered rifle and a .45-caliber handgun. Ebert did not know if one or both were used in the shooting, but he said they were not U.S. military weapons. Ebert and police said they could not comment on whether there had been previous calls to the Hamilton home. Officer Jonathan Perok, a Prince William police spokesman, said the initial 911 call came in as a domestic dispute. There were no reports of shots fired. Guindon, 28, entered the academy for Prince William police in January 2015 and graduated in June. She left the academy before coming back this year. "She couldn't get it out of her blood," Hudson said. "She clearly had a passion to serve others." During a vigil Sunday night, more than 500 people packed the Sean Connaughton Plaza for the ceremony honoring Guindon. A giant American flag hung over the plaza, draped from two fire department ladders. And Guindon's police cruiser was draped in black bunting at the county's police headquarters. Outside Crystal Hamilton's home, friends erected a memorial over the weekend. Flowers, candles and a teddy bear framed a posterboard of photos. One of Crystal Hamilton's best friends, Shayna Colunga, said Hamilton shared a special bond with her son. They'd planned to go to Red Lobster to celebrate his birthday, but their plans were interrupted by Wednesday's severe weather. "That was her munchkin. She called him her munchkin, her best friend," Colunga said. Hawla Donley, another friend, said Crystal Hamilton had been getting over a cold, so Donley checked in with her Saturday morning. Donley wanted to make sure her friend was still up for a girls' night out, planned for the evening. Hamilton's text back read: "I'm not 100% but I'm alive and will make it," followed by a smile emoji. A federal judge in Indianapolis on Monday blocked Republican Gov. Mike Pence's order that barred state agencies from helping Syrian refugees resettle in Indiana, saying the governor's directive "clearly discriminates" against refugees from the war-torn country. The ruling grants a request for a preliminary injunction from Exodus Refugee Immigration, which helps resettle refugees in Indiana. The group sued shortly after Pence issued his order in November, saying the change would hurt aid groups by withholding reimbursements for housing and medical care to assist Syrian refugees. Exodus and other organizations have continued to resettle Syrian refugees, though the state has sought to withhold funds earmarked for resettlements. Four Syrian refugees were settled in January, with Exodus planning to settle nearly 200 more this year, Monday's opinion said. More than two dozen states, most with Republican governors, have taken similar action to suspend Syrian resettlement programs. Pence released a statement saying he stood by his decision and would quickly appeal. The governor has repeatedly cited the November attacks in Paris as justification, noting that a passport found near one of the suicide bombers had been registered along the route asylum seekers from Syria were taking through Europe. In her 36-page opinion, U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt said the state had a compelling concern to protect its residents, but that withholding federal grant money from the aid group "in no way furthers the state's asserted interest in the safety of Indiana residents." Pratt also wrote that the governor's directive "clearly discriminates against Syrian refugees based on their national origin." Similar lawsuits have been filed in Texas, Alabama and Pennsylvania, according to the judge's ruling. An attorney for the Indiana plaintiffs, Kenneth Falk, said he believes Pratt's ruling is the first action taken by a judge in such a case. The lawsuit, filed on behalf of the refugee group by the American Civil Liberties Union of Indiana, said the state was violating the U.S. Constitution and the Civil Rights Act by accepting refugees from other countries but not from Syria. At the time, the group said it expected to settle about 19 Syrians vetted by the federal government within the next several months. Pratt said she granted the preliminary injunction because she believed the plaintiffs would eventually prevail in their lawsuit. The judge said the state had acknowledged it doesn't have the authority to bar Syrian refugees from crossing into Indiana after the U.S. government already gave them a green light to enter the country. But she said the aim of yanking funding from groups like Exodus was to achieve the same result. "The State deprives Syrian refugees that are already in Indiana of social services in the hopes that it will deter (voluntary agencies) from resettling other Syrian refugees in the State," she wrote. "This is essentially a policy of punishing Syrian refugees already in Indiana in the hopes that no more will come." Pratt added that the state's decision to not pass on funds to Exodus would mean the group might be forced to cut funding to other refugee clients not just those from Syria. What now, for Bernie Sanders? Hillary Clinton's overwhelming victory in South Carolina on Saturday did many things for her campaign: It gave the candidate more confidence and voice, extended her momentum as she moves into a big band of states voting Tuesday and made good on her campaign's long-uttered assurance that her troubles would ease as the race moved out of the largely white early states. Advertisement As the South Carolina results lifted the hard questions from Clinton's campaign, it deposited them on the insurgent senator from Vermont. Sanders must now fight not only a hypothetical front-runner, as Clinton was for so long, but one who has claimed that role with actual votes. And he must do so while facing a yawning gap in the polls in most of the states ahead, a gap that will only be harder to close without the momentum that comes with victory. Advertisement It's never a good sign when a candidate has to flatly say that he's continuing in the race, as Sanders did in a statement on Saturday. "This campaign is just beginning. We won a decisive victory in New Hampshire. She won a decisive victory in South Carolina. Now it's on to Super Tuesday," he said, ignoring Clinton's narrow win in Iowa and her convincing win in Nevada. Later, speaking to a huge crowd in Rochester, Minn., Sanders struck a somewhat downbeat tone before heading into his standard remarks about a corrupt political system and an economy rigged to benefit the wealthy. "What this campaign is about is not just electing a president," he said. "Yeah, that's really important and there's something that's more important ... it's about transforming America. It's about thinking big." Clinton's victory was so striking that, according to exit polls of voters, she won even among those who most valued a candidate's honesty and caring two groups that had sided strongly with Sanders in votes earlier this month. She also sealed the win long ago, with overwhelming support among the big majority of voters who had decided which candidate to back either last month or beforehand. The absence of many persuadable voters hurt Sanders' cause and likely stemmed from Clinton's standing among African American voters, who made up about 6 in 10 Democratic voters, a higher percentage than in the past. That disproportionately heavy black turnout will probably not be fully replicated in all of the states ahead. But as Clinton benefited Saturday from the momentum of her victory a week ago in Nevada, she now goes into the 11 states voting March 1 with a wind at her back from South Carolina. As she attempts to extend her delegate lead over Sanders, and Sanders tries to regroup from two successive losses, the landscape ahead is strongly in Clinton's favor. Advertisement A Real Clear Politics average of polls in the states up for grabs Tuesday found Clinton leading in nine, essentially tied in one and losing to Sanders only in Vermont, which will have the day's smallest delegate stash. Among the larger states, Clinton was ahead by more than 20 points in Texas, Georgia, Minnesota, Colorado, Tennessee, Alabama and Arkansas. She led by more than 19 points, in the average, in the general election battleground of Virginia. Besides his home state, Sanders' best chance lies in Massachusetts, where the candidates were within less than a point. Polls can change, of course, and two of the contests, Minnesota and Colorado, are caucuses, which are hard to predict with surveys. Moreover, Sanders has the money to make his presence felt in the Tuesday states and far beyond. But the campaign has largely moved beyond the states where he appears strongest. And partly due to the pressure he has applied, Clinton has become a stronger candidate. She's not facing the full fusillade of a general election campaign yet, far from it. Sanders has largely ignored criticisms of Clinton's use of a private email system as secretary of State, which Republicans raise in almost every appearance. Within the confines of the Democratic contest, however, Clinton has honed a message that is more accommodating of the anger in the 2016 electorate than was her original sales pitch. As she did last Saturday in Nevada, Clinton made an effort in her South Carolina acceptance speech to cast her campaign as inclusive. The favored pronoun was "we," not "I." Advertisement "We're going to work together to give our children the education they need and deserve here in South Carolina and across America," she said, recounting visits to decrepit schools in the Palmetto state. Supporters of Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton cheer at her election night watch party in Columbia, S.C., on Saturday. (Gerald Herbert / Associated Press) She sought, again, to reach out to young voters, who support Sanders by a dramatic margin. "We're going to work together to give people, particularly young people, the tools you need," she said. Clinton benefited in South Carolina from tying herself to President Obama, who is popular in the state and whose policies most voters said they wanted to continue. But she also drew lines of separation from him that will come in handy in states where he is less revered. Besides suffering schools and nonexistent jobs, she pointed to the community of Flint, Mich., where residents have been poisoned by lead in their drinking water. "We know there are many other Flints out there, communities that have been left out and left behind," she said, acknowledging the limits of the Obama recovery. Advertisement Yet she also sketched an optimistic view overall, a contrast with the apocalyptic visions crafted by Republican presidential candidates. And she sought to warm up her image by calling for "more love and kindness," something she admitted seemed "a little odd" coming from a candidate. It wasn't a little odd at all. It was a clear turn toward a general election audience, an audience she grew closer to with the results from South Carolina on Saturday. For political news and analysis, follow me on Twitter: @cathleendecker . For more on politics, go to latimes.com/decker. ALSO: Donald Trump could hurt and help in downticket races Delegate tracker: Who's winning the race to the nomination? Advertisement Updates from the California Democratic Party convention Live coverage from the campaign trail A "Vote Here" sign is positioned outside a church serving as a polling precinct in Walterboro, S.C., for the Feb. 20 South Carolina primary. (Mark Makela, Getty Images) It wasn't even intentional on my part. I just noticed a few weeks ago that I had stopped describing myself to people as an "evangelical." I had begun, subconsciously, to say that I am a "gospel Christian." When I caught myself doing this, I wondered why and the answer wasn't long in coming. The word "evangelical" has become almost meaningless this year, and in many ways the word itself is at the moment subverting the gospel of Jesus Christ. Advertisement Part of the problem is that secular people have long misunderstood the meaning of "evangelical," seeing it almost exclusively in terms of election-year voting blocs or our most buffoonish television personalities. That's especially true when media don't distinguish in election exit polls between churchgoers and those who merely self-identify as "born again" or "evangelical." We have been too willing to look the other way when the word "evangelical" has been co-opted by heretics and lunatics. Many of those who tell pollsters they are "evangelical" may well be drunk right now, and haven't been into a church since someone invited them to Vacation Bible School sometime back when "Seinfeld" was in first-run episodes. Advertisement The other problem is the behavior of some evangelical leaders. I have watched as some of these who gave stem-winding speeches about "character" in office during the Clinton administration now minimize the spewing of profanities in campaign speeches, race-baiting and courting white supremacists, boasting of adulterous affairs, debauching public morality and justice through the casino and pornography industries. I watched one evangelical leader pronounce a candidate a Christian, though he explicitly states that he has never repented of sin, because he displays the fruit of the Spirit through job creation. That's not a political problem; it's a gospel problem. Why are many evangelical leaders, including some who pontificate on nearly everything else, scared silent as evangelicalism is associated with everything from authoritarianism and bigotry to violations of religious freedom? How can they look the other way in silence when politicians praise Planned Parenthood and demur about white supremacists and neo-Nazis? Worst of all, what happens when evangelicalism is no longer even clear about what it takes to be saved: repentance from sin and personal trust in Jesus Christ? For years, secular progressives have said that evangelical social action in America is not about religious conviction but all about power. They have implied that the goal of the Religious Right is to cynically use the "moral" to get to the "majority," not the other way around. This year, a group of high-profile old-guard evangelicals has proven these critics right. But thank God, that's not the whole story. The word "evangelical" isn't, first of all, about American politics. The word is rooted in the Greek word for gospel, good news for sinners through the life, death, resurrection and reign of Jesus of Nazareth as the son of God and anointed ruler of the cosmos. Evangelical means a commitment to the truth of God's revelation in the Bible and a conviction that the blood of Christ is offered to any repentant, believing sinner as a full atonement for sin. Advertisement The contemporary evangelical movement mobilized after World War II at least partly because the word "fundamentalist" had become as confused as the word "evangelical" now is. "Fundamentalist" initially referred to those committed to the "fundamentals" of the faith the authority of scripture, the miracles, the virgin birth, the bodily resurrection, the Second Coming. By mid-century, though, it had become associated with those who fought over tertiary issues such as the specific interpretation of Revelation chapter 20 or what Bible translation should be used. Evangelicalism conveyed people who held to the fundamentals but who were defined around good news. The evangelical nonsense we see too often today has a long pedigree, from 1980s flock-fleecing television evangelists to the prosperity gospel heretics on our airwaves to those who peddle "end-times" books with false prophecies year after year, revising their charts to fit the headlines. We have been too willing to look the other way when the word "evangelical" has been co-opted by heretics and lunatics. This sort could deny creedal Christianity and gospel clarity with impunity, as long as they were on the right side of the culture war. Thankfully, this sort of evangelicalism is not the future. Look at the millennial pastors and church planters all over the country. Look at who is in evangelical seminaries, of every denomination. Look at who is flocking to evangelical conferences from Urbana to Passion to Send North America to The Gospel Coalition. The future of evangelicalism is vibrant, prophetic, theologically-grounded, gospel-centered and unwilling to be anyone's political mascot. Advertisement Evangelical is a magnificent word a word that resonates with the gospel dissent of Martin Luther and the gospel crusades of Billy Graham. More than that, it is rooted in the New Testament itself that tells us that Jesus saves. And I'm not ready to give it up yet. But you will forgive me if, at least until this crazy campaign year is over, I choose just to say that I'm a gospel Christian. When this fevered moment is over, we will need to make "evangelical" great again. Washington Post Russell Moore is president of the Ethics & Religious Liberty Commission of the Southern Baptist Convention. He is the author of "Onward: Engaging the Culture without Losing the Gospel." If the people around Marco Rubio are right, the Republican presidential campaign is about to turn into a two-man race between Donald Trump and one remaining anti-Trump the senator from Florida. That's why Rubio has abruptly launched a series of attacks on Trump his business practices, his veracity and more. In strategy sessions last week, Rubio and his aides decided "that the arguments (against Trump) would break through now ... and he could make it a two-man race," one of his advisors told me. Advertisement The resulting shouting match reveals how thoroughly Trump's style heavy on personal insults, but light on, you know, policy has transformed the entire GOP campaign. When Trump is in the ring, nobody can avoid mud wrestling. Thursday's high-decibel debate in Houston was only the opening salvo. Rubio continued the attacks on Friday, repeatedly labeling Trump "a con artist." Advertisement Brawling from the get-go, Senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz went hard after Donald Trump in the latest Republican presidential debate, attacking the front-runner's position on immigration, his privileged background and his speaking style. Feb. 26, 2016. (AP) (Associated Press) "A tough guy?" Rubio scoffed at a rally in Dallas. "This guy inherited $200 million. He's never faced any struggle." At the debate, he claimed, Trump "asked for a full length mirror ... maybe to make sure his pants weren't wet." That wasn't exactly the kind of discourse the Founding Fathers had in mind in 1787. Maybe they had the right idea when they gave state legislatures the power to elect the president instead of the public. Yet Rubio's attacks were strategic. After watching other candidates fail to stop Trump by questioning his policies, Rubio concluded that the only way to win is by attacking the core of Trump's appeal: his authenticity as a champion of the angry white working class. "Don't shoot down the airplanes, blow up the aircraft carrier," Stuart Stevens, Mitt Romney's chief strategist in 2012, argued. "A campaign that beats Trump will have to prove that the core of his message and the messenger both are fakes." There's an irony in Rubio's sudden turn to negative campaigning. When he launched his candidacy, it was supposed to be about optimism (he proclaimed a "new American century") and his next-generation conservatism (he claimed to represent "the children of Reagan"). In keeping with Ronald Reagan's commandment never to criticize a fellow Republican, he not only avoided tangling with Trump; he even praised the billionaire for his proposal to ban all Muslims from entering the United States. But Rubio is nothing if not agile. He's been alternately admired and criticized as an ambitious political natural since his first run for the Florida legislature in 2000. Advertisement Elected to the Senate in 2010 as a tea party challenger to the GOP establishment, he began thinking about running for president almost immediately almost like Barack Obama, who also ran for the White House in his first term. He's a genuine conservative who supports sweeping tax cuts, opposes abortion (including in cases of rape or incest), is skeptical on climate change and is a thoroughgoing hawk on foreign policy. Conservative scorecards rank him to the right of most of his Senate colleagues. But Rubio isn't an insurgent like Ted Cruz; he wants to work inside the system, not blow it up. He's a dealmaker. That interest in bipartisan bargaining led Rubio into his boldest and, in retrospect, most painful legislative venture, the 2013 bipartisan immigration bill. Rubio helped write the bill, which included a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants. That turned out to be wildly unpopular among most Republican voters. He now says he wouldn't even try to change immigration laws until the border is fully secure, but polls suggest he's still distrusted by many in his party who rank the issue high on their list of concerns. Advertisement So instead of trying to convert primary voters on the issues, Rubio hopes to peel some of them away from Trump by painting the mogul as a "con artist" who hired undocumented immigrants to work on construction projects. Even then, Rubio could be too late to stop Trump. He hasn't won a primary yet, and Rubio aides already concede that they are unlikely to win any on Super Tuesday; they're pinning their hopes on his delegate-rich home state of Florida, which votes in a winner-take-all primary on March 15. But Trump leads the polls there as well. If Rubio fails to take Trump down, he has one consolation: He's only 44. He'll be well-positioned to run again the next time the job opens up. Tribune Content Agency Doyle McManus is a columnist for the Los Angeles Times. doyle.mcmanus@latimes.com Admittedly, the Republican Party has difficulty arriving at a consensus these days. But conservatives are getting pretty close to one on the matter of who bears responsibility for the party's riotous Donald Trump fiasco. They have met the enemy, and, sure enough, it's them. "The Republican Party created Donald Trump," said former RedState blogger Erick Erickson, "because they made a lot of promises to their base and never kept them." Advertisement Veteran activist L. Brent Bozell III was all over that argument back in April 2015. "Republicans promised conservatives the moon in 2014 and have given us the shaft throughout 2015," Bozell wrote. Maybe what Republican voters want are promises even more extravagantly bankrupt than what they're accustomed to. Ratcheting up the culpability, the conservative Washington Times wrote that Republican leaders not only "made promises they couldn't keep," but that they "had no intention of trying to keep." Advertisement That's a tough charge, but Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-South Carolina, copped to it at a Republican debate in September, saying, "I'm tired of telling people things they want to hear that I know we can't do." Repeal President Obama's health care plan. Ban abortions after 20 weeks. Overturn presidential executive actions on immigration. Cut spending on Democratic constituencies. It turns out that Republicans oversold and underdelivered. Given the sunny trajectory of Trump's new career, the GOP's realization might be too late. But at least the lesson has been learned. Just kidding. Florida Sen. Marco Rubio is the party's last best OK, only hope to arrest Trump's ascension to top of the jungle gym and salvage Republican orthodoxy. Rubio has lost four consecutive GOP contests, suggesting sizable pockets of resistance within the Republican base. It might be worthwhile to review his campaign in light of the party's recent confessions. Rubio has promised to "repeal and replace" Obamacare so many times that he could be excused for believing it's already gone. He attacked Trump last week for having no real plan for health care. But as Paul Waldman pointed out in The Washington Post, Rubio's own "plan" is simply a reprint of an op-ed essay espousing three main principles. Obamacare isn't really a law at this point anyway. It's the de facto health-care system of the U.S. Rubio is essentially promising to repeal "War and Peace" on his first day in office and replace it with a couple of paragraphs in which Napoleon is defeated faster and better and without pre-existing conditions. Likewise, Rubio has promised to cancel the Obama administration's "ridiculous deal" on Iran's nuclear program and "reimpose sanctions on Day One" of his presidency. This fits with the Rubio rigmarole about Obama knowing "exactly what he's doing" as the president pursues what the Florida senator characterizes as a lifelong dream of weakening the U.S. Advertisement But sanctions on Iran were multilateral, and indeed must be to have bite. Rubio has no power to force Europeans to reimpose sanctions that they were delighted to lift. And his capacity to reformulate a deal to which the U.S. is but one of several parties is at best highly speculative. Maybe Rubio has Trumpian negotiating skills and a secret plan. If not, he's offering how did Bozell phrase it? Ah, yes, "the moon." Rubio has variously promised to end Obama's executive actions protecting undocumented immigrants, eliminate federal funding for sanctuary cities, win the war on Islamic State and pass a tax plan that "treats everyone on an even playing field," which suggests he is contemplating a plan other than the one he has actually proposed, which heavily frontloads benefits to the very wealthiest. Every candidate makes some promises that won't, or can't, be kept. It's the nature of a sketchy business. Rubio has taken to calling Trump a "con man" on the stump and it's hard to dispute the label. While Rubio offers dubious promises, boldly stated, Trump suffices with an occasional tweet and an assurance that everything's gonna be great. It's unclear why a Republican electorate that is purportedly feeling burned by empty promises should turn its lonely eyes to such an obvious deception. Maybe the analysts are wrong. Maybe what Republican voters want are promises even more extravagantly bankrupt than what they're accustomed to. Rubio's problem in that case is that he remains slightly tethered to reality. And the man has no red cap. Bloomberg View Francis Wilkinson writes on politics and domestic policy for Bloomberg View. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell of Ky., center, joined by, from second for left are, Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., and Senate Majority Whip John Cornyn of Texas, speaks with reporters on Capitol Hill in Washington, Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2016, following a closed-door policy meeting. (J. Scott Applewhite, AP) The death of Antonin Scalia created a vacancy on the U.S. Supreme Court at a politically fraught moment the middle of a presidential campaign, and its outcome is impossible to predict. It has left Washington in one of those immovable standoffs between the president and Congress that offers no hope of a compromise. President Barack Obama says he intends to nominate a successor to Scalia, in keeping with his constitutional obligation. Senate Republicans say he should abstain and leave the selection to the next president, allowing voters to decide who should be entrusted with this fateful appointment. Advertisement What makes the fight particularly intense is that replacing the very conservative Scalia with a liberal newcomer could determine the outcomes of many vital cases on gun rights, campaign finance, abortion and more. Democrats want to install their sort of justice while they still have the White House. Republicans hope to put the appointment off until next year in the hope that it will be made by a Republican president. Republican Leader Mitch McConnell says the Senate will provide any nominee with no confirmation hearings, no votes and no other action. Obama insists that the Senate has a duty to "move quickly to debate and then confirm this nominee so that the court can continue to serve the American people at full strength." Each side claims that history, tradition and common sense support its position, and neither is backing down. Advertisement Yes, we're aware that each major party has played the opposite role when the power positions were reversed. If this spat, too, strikes you as a fight over politics disguised as a fight over constitutional principles Just tell me your party affiliation so I know where you stand on this then you're more than a little right. May we suggest that there is indeed a middle ground? Obama is fully entitled to name a replacement and the Senate is fully entitled to hold hearings, argue over the nomination and accept or reject it. The senators' constitutional responsibility is to "advise and consent," and that task includes the right to say: "The people of our states have given us the power to confirm judicial appointees, and this one will not do." What's the downside of affording Obama's candidate the full treatment before deciding his or her fate? The GOP believes the American people want a court that will follow a broad interpretation of the Second Amendment, allow state restrictions on abortion facilities, curb affirmative action and protect employers with religious objections from having to participate in the provision of contraceptives to their employees. Obama would prefer that the justices rule differently on those issues which means that whoever he chooses is not likely to satisfy the concerns of Republican senators. But there's no harm in conducting a full review of the nominee's record and subjecting him or her to hours of questioning about constitutional and legal issues. In fact, it could illuminate the importance, as the GOP sees it, of ensuring that any seats that open up during the next administration are filled by a Republican president. Stonewalling, by contrast, makes McConnell & Co. look mulish, to the advantage of Obama & Co. "Democratic aides privately delighted over the prospect of cameras capturing a qualified nominee being turned away from the offices of top Republican leaders," The Washington Post reports. "They noted that no previous Supreme Court nominee has been denied a Senate hearing." And who knows? If Obama knew his choice would get a normal review, he might select someone with a chance of winning over enough Republican senators to be confirmed. He might meet the loyal opposition part way. The court, both parties and the country might come out ahead. So the Senate should welcome a nomination, undertake a complete assessment of that person, and then make a decision that the American people can understand. Vote yes or vote no, but vote. Follow the Editorial Board on Twitter @Trib_Ed_Board and on Facebook. There's a safe-sex slogan that says: When you sleep with someone, you also sleep with his past. The same is true for political endorsements. Advertisement New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, by hopping in bed with his former GOP presidential primary opponent Donald Trump, is now at risk of contracting Trump's Islamophobia, sexism, racism, classlessness, meanness, duplicity, arrogance, and, after this weekend, his apparent respect for quotes from Italian fascist and Hitler-hugger Benito Mussolini. Christie's endorsement came late last week. By Sunday, Trump had retweeted a Mussolini quote "It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep" and, when called out about it on NBC's "Meet the Press," said: "It's a very good quote. I didn't know who said it, but what difference does it make if it was Mussolini or somebody else it's a very good quote." Advertisement Yeah. So what if Mussolini was a murderous tyrant, it's a good quote. What's Trump supposed to do, quote Gandhi? (About an hour after this column was published online, Trump sent a tweet quoting Gandhi. Well, sort of. According to the Christian Science Monitor, the quote "First they ignore you. Then they laugh at you. Then they attack you. Then you win." is not actually from Gandhi but likely from an early 1900s trade unionist named Nicholas Klein. At least it's not from Mussolini.) The bad news for Christie is that the Mussolini business was the least bad thing Trump did Sunday. The candidate also was given a chance to denounce the Ku Klux Klan and noted racist David Duke, but instead said he would "have to look at the group" and: "I don't know David Duke. I don't believe I have ever met him. I'm pretty sure I didn't meet him. And I just don't know anything about him." Trump does know about Duke. He denounced an endorsement from him two days earlier and, back in 2000, described him as "a neo-Nazi." And when it comes to the KKK, there's little need to equivocate. One wonders if Christie is already regretting hitching his wagon to this particular horse. Meg Whitman, a top supporter of Christie's failed presidential campaign, eviscerated him in a statement: "Chris Christie's endorsement of Donald Trump is an astonishing display of political opportunism. Donald Trump is unfit to be president. He is a dishonest demagogue who plays to our worst fears. Trump would take America on a dangerous journey." Ouch. Of course Christie isn't the only high-profile politician hopping into Trump's fantastic, larger-than-life, solid-gold bed of snakes. Advertisement Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions endorsed Trump on Sunday, saying at a rally: "I told Donald Trump this isn't a campaign, this is a movement." It is a movement. For the GOP, it's a movement from any hope of sensible conservatism to shameful crazy-town, a movement that will lead the party directly off the nearest bridge. There's a reason white supremacy groups like Trump. There's a reason he has been endorsed by Maine Gov. Paul LePage (who recently suggested that black drug dealers are coming to Maine to impregnate young white women) and former Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer (who put in place a draconian immigration law and claimed, falsely, that border violence had led to beheadings in the desert). There's a reason he was praised Saturday by Jean-Marie Le Pen, the former leader of France's far-right National Front party, who in 2014 said the Ebola virus could solve France's immigration "problem." It's easy to say, "Oh, those endorsements don't matter." But it would be more convincing if Trump's own comments and behavior didn't make it equally easy to say, "Yeah, those endorsements sound about right." Christie and Sessions are neither a kooky governor from Maine nor a French right-wing nut job. But they have made the choice to lie down with a man Mussolini might call a lion. And they will find themselves forever tainted by that dalliance. Advertisement Trump's lack of couth, his repeated offenses toward Mexicans and Muslims and women, his time spent pandering to both dog-whistling right-wing radio hosts and his own followers who spit anti-immigrant vitriol with ease, as if someone has at last given them permission, make this a gut-check moment for Republicans. They can draw a principled line in the electoral sand, as Republican Sen. Ben Sasse of Nebraska did Sunday night, writing in a Facebook post that he would not vote for Trump, even if he becomes the GOP nominee: "A presidential candidate who boasts about what he'll do during his 'reign' and refuses to condemn the KKK cannot lead a conservative movement in America." Or as Republican media consultant Rick Wilson recently wrote: "I will never vote for Donald Trump because he's created a political culture that revels in its own willingness to be conned and governed only by its talk-radio-fueled rage. I will never vote for Donald Trump because he's stoked the darkest and most evil corners of his fandom with praise and approval." GOP presidential candidate Marco Rubio hasn't said he won't vote for Trump if Trump gets the nomination, but Rubio tweeted on Sunday: "We cannot be a party that nominates someone who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan." Republicans need to take that stand. When you sleep with someone, you also sleep with his past. The wrong decision can plague you the rest of your life. Advertisement rhuppke@tribpub.com A.J. Mikkelson, 15, a John Hersey High School sophomore of Arlington Heights, enters the Rolling Meadows High School library to perform at the Feb. 27, 2016, Jazz in the Meadows concert. (Karie Angell Luc / Pioneer Press) Though they did not take the grand prize in Saturday's Jazz in the Meadows contest, John Hersey High School's jazz musicians did not go home empty handed. Hersey teams earned first place in the combo and class divisions at the Rolling Meadows High School music competition, in its 31st year. Advertisement In the Combos Large division, Hersey tied for first place with Barrington High School. The Jazz in the Meadows Grand Champion for 2016 is Wheeling High School. "It's just a good opportunity to be around the best bands in the state," said Scott Casagrande, John Hersey High School director of bands. "It's a focal point of the year for the jazz band." Advertisement Two Hersey Huskies jazz bands featuring 40 jazz performers appeared during the daylong event, which drew more than 5,000 attendees, more than 60 schools, 200 volunteers and 1,000 musicians. Musicians came from states including Indiana, Iowa, Missouri and Wisconsin. "The Chicago area is one of the strongest jazz areas in the country and this festival is a slice of what happens in the area," Casagrande said. Hersey's Jazz Ensemble 1 headlined in the library for a 2 p.m. 30-minute concert. "This jazz event is a lot of fun," said A.J. Mikkelson, 15, of Arlington Heights and a Hersey sophomore musician. "It's a big tradition and I'm kind of excited about being a part of it in future years." Earlier, Hersey's Jazz Combo II performed in the orchestra room where students were critiqued on technique, sound and more. Judges were assigned to judge eight performance venues. "I think it's great that judges are evaluating us and it's a great learning experience," said Sachina Hobo, 17, a Hersey junior from Arlington Heights. "It's such an amazing experience for them," said Hobo's mother, Sue Conolly, who added she was impressed with the quality of judges. Advertisement John Hersey High School has participated in the Jazz in the Meadows contest for more than two decades, Casagrande said. "I hope that they appreciate the art form of jazz," Casagrande said. "It's a wide spectrum of what teenagers can accomplish if they put their mind to it." With more than 100 student performances plus featured artists such as Big Bad Bones and the New Standard Jazz Orchestra, Jazz in the Meadows has grown since its inception, said Christopher Buti, director of bands, color guard, and fine arts coordinator at Rolling Meadows High School. "One thing that is great about jazz is, that it's actually a musical conversation if they're in tune to each other," Buti said. "It's spontaneous. You can hear three schools play a piece and they'll play it a little bit differently." Jazz in the Meadows is the school's biggest fundraiser for the Rolling Meadows High School Music Boosters, raising about $15,000, said Christina Krawczyk of Rolling Meadows, event chairperson and a Mustangs parent. Both John Hersey High School and Rolling Meadows High School will perform this spring in New York City's Carnegie Hall. Advertisement The Mustangs perform over the school's March spring break with the Huskies leaving for the Big Apple on March 30, returning in early April. Karie Angell Luc is a freelance photographer and reporter for Pioneer Press. The Clarendon Hills Park District has hired a consultant that will help in the process of determining if additional space is needed for indoor programs and options for creating that space. The park district's community center, 315 Chicago Ave., is home to administrative offices and a community room that offers the only on site location for classes, programs and activities. The park district does use facilities at Clarendon Hills Middle School, Prospect School, and Walker School, and works with some neighboring park districts for programs. Advertisement "We feel like we're busting out, and we have to look at it," said Don Scheltens, the park district's executive director. "We really started to feel like we were maxing out about 2010 or 2011. We only want to grow if there's a need for it, and it's affordable, but I think it's definitely time to take a look at it." Scheltens, who has been with the park district since 1989, said the community center opened in the fall of 2000. Advertisement "At the time, all of our recreational programs were done at schools, churches, and the library anything we could find," he said. "We want as many quality programs as possible. I think we have the kids' thing under control, but we'd like to have more for other parts of our population." Scheltens said he didn't know exactly how many different programs are offered by the park district, but said an increase of its summer brochure, which provides information on programs, to 44 pages for 2016 from 28 pages in 2013 is indicative of the growth. "One place it's really an issue is that we can't offer more than one class at a time in the community center because we have the one room, which really isn't set up to be divided," he said. Scheltens said more than 90 percent of those who participate in park district programs are Clarendon Hills residents. "We have some of our residents go elsewhere for some programs because we don't have them or don't have the quality," he said, noting dance classes as an example of something offered in a limited fashion. "I know that dance classes are very popular because I see dance studios in the area, but we're limited on when we can offer them because we only have our one room. We also don't have mirrors and bars. I suspect there would be interest in us offering more dance, but that's one of the things we want to find out." As for the possibility of expanding the community center, Scheltens said any additions to the existing building likely would be in the upward direction. "We don't want to use park space to add on to this building," he said. "We'll take a look at whatever options we can find, including renting space somewhere if it's available." Advertisement Scheltens said he expects a report will be presented to the Park Board in about six months, after staff works with the consultant, Williams Architects, to collect and analyze information. Surveys and/or focus groups are possible in the future, Scheltens said. Williams Architects are being paid $10,000 for its work, he said. cfieldman@pioneerlocal.com Twitter: @chuckwriting Protesters chant Sunday at a rally over the decision to close Lincoln-Way North High School. (Nick Swedberg / Daily Southtown) A parent-led effort to prevent the closing of Lincoln-Way North High School reached a crescendo Sunday afternoon. About 200 people shouted chants of "all four schools" and "citizens won't be fooled" during a protest in a parking lot a few hundred yards from the school, which district officials intend to close this fall. Advertisement The protest, organized by Lincoln-Way Area Taxpayers Unite, comes in the wake of a lawsuit filed the organization filed in December seeking to halt the plan to close the school. Parents said they want the cash-strapped school district to take more time to review financial information that has surfaced since the decision was made to close one of the district's four high schools. Advertisement A hearing is scheduled for Monday in Will County court on a motion to dismiss the lawsuit. "It's heartbreaking," said Liz Sands, a parent and founder of Lincoln-Way Area Taxpayers Unite. "It's not the Lincoln-Way that I grew up with." Jay Curatolo, 43, of Frankfort, rallies parents and children at a protest Sunday over the decision to close Lincoln-Way North High School. (Nick Swedberg / Daily Southtown) School board members voted 5-2 in August to close North to save $5 million a year and get off the state's financial watch list. Members of the parents group argue the closing should only have been considered a "last resort," and other options for bringing the district back into the black should have been explored first. The rallying cries at Sunday's protest focused on keeping all four high school open for students. Current and incoming students at North will be bused to Lincoln-Way East High School if the school is shuttered. Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday > "We are here because the Lincoln-Way we see today is not the proud school district it once was," said Jay Curatolo, a 43-year-old district parent with two children at North. "We are here because we believe that the leadership must be held accountable for their actions or inactions that got us in the position we are in today." The group, made up most of North parents, filed the lawsuit on Dec. 29 alleging a lack of a basis for closing a school. The lawsuit also lays out what the group considers to be financial irregularities and mismanagement over the years. Attorneys for the school district filed a motion in January to have the lawsuit dismissed on the grounds the court does not jurisdiction over the board's action. Parent Steve Cook, 51, of Tinley Park, holds a sign during a protest Sunday over the decision to close Lincoln-Way North High School. (Nick Swedberg / Daily Southtown) Parents have filed more than 300 Freedom of Information requests from the district seeking documents that explain how the district's finances tanked, Sands said. The group also offered their own deficit reduction plan to the district with alternatives to closing a school. Advertisement Sands said the community wasn't involved in the board's decision about North last year. Despite months of meetings since then, little progress has been made by the district to increase transparency and involve the community in the decision-making, she said. "Nothing has changed," Sands said. "It's frustrating. It's absolutely frustrating." Nick Swedberg is a freelancer for the Daily Southtown Ted Slowik is correct: No excuses for not voting. The comment from Oak Forest about typhoid or cholera is funny, in a not so funny way. Not voting is a vote for apathy. The mess we're in is a direct result. For all that don't exercise their right to vote, maybe they should exercise their legs and leave the country. MJ, Worth Advertisement Frankfort is getting a luxury theatre complex and Tinley Park is getting low-income subsidized apartments. What's wrong with that picture? Drivers beware. Go out today and check when your license-plate sticker expires. If you let it expire, there is a $20 late fee. The state is not sending out notices because of lack of funding. Also, be aware when shopping in Orland Park if your sticker is expired, because the Orland Park police are taking advantage of the situation and cruising every mall, grocery store and strip mall, and giving out tickets. Advertisement Don, Tinley Park Tinley Park government has given new meaning to, "Does the right hand know what the left is doing?" The obvious dysfunction and alleged underhandedness is downright embarrassing. No matter what the outcome, it will cost umpteen dollars in legal fees, probable further decline of property values and the unlikelihood of attracting business and buyers. Tinley Park To the person that wrote in saying that they are a concerned citizen, and to be aware of Bernie Sanders because he said he wants to do away with Medicare and Social Security: Where do you get your information from? He never even said these things. The only thing Bernie had to say was that he would like everyone to have Medicare. J.M., New Lenox Wow, Ted Slowik [Phil Kadner's replacement]. Tell it like it really is. You really woke me up Sunday morning with your article, "Lincoln-Way taxpayers deserve accountability." Halfway through the article, I had to sit back and digest all you had to say. My head was spinning. You truly spoke from the heart, which is hard to come by. Your fact-finding, directness and compassion are outstanding. Welcome. While alive, Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia was honored and praised for being a staunch defender of the Constitution. Ironically, but perhaps not surprisingly, his body was not yet cold when Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell and other Republican leaders said that our current president should not be allowed to nominate a replacement, though that is his duty under the Constitution. Apparently, the Constitution applies only to one party, but not to the entire country. What a hypocritical, shameful and disgraceful way to demean Scalia's memory. Gerry, Tinley Park Advertisement Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday > Perhaps more people would play the Illinois Lottery if the numbers were chosen the way they used to be so that people could watch the drawings instead of the winning numbers being computer-generated. Oh, I forgot. This is the state of Illinois. Orland Park I would appreciate it if somebody would inform these dumb, young college students that there is no such thing as free college education in this country as the Democrats are promising them. They need to wake up and get a little smarter for kids going to school and college. John, Hegewisch I was watching the jet.com TV commercial where the tops of people's heads are blown off. I was in the military service. I dragged a guy out of a minefield. His brains spilled out on the field behind him. I don't find that commercial enjoyable at all. Veterans had instances where these guys' heads got blown off. Some of them have been shot off or had bullets going through their heads. Do you think that's the right kind of commercial, to show people's heads like that? Shame on you, people. You're bringing back a lot of bad thoughts and memories for a lot of soldiers. Why do you find enjoyment showing people's heads blown off? That's really going too far. What's Speak Out? Advertisement Speak Out allows readers to comment on the issues of the day. Email Speak Out at speakout@southtownstar.com or call 312-222-2427. Please limit comments to 30 seconds or about 120 words and give your first name and your hometown. To all the Republicans who think President Obama should not nominate a replacement for the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, I ask you one question: Would that be your position if former President Reagan was in office? Marv, Bridgeview Advertisement Say what you will about Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia's character and legacy, but the following statement is sublimely accurate: Progressives are downright giddy about his death, while far-right conservatives are absolutely terrified. Dave, Oak Lawn Advertisement The New York Times wants to nominate the first woman for president, and they're talking about former U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton. Why not former Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin? She'd make a better president than one that's responsible for the lives of Americans being lost during the 2012 attack in Benghazi, Libya. John, Hegewisch When the Supreme Court declared George W. Bush the winner of the presidency in 2000, Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia was one of the judges that refused to have a recount of Florida, which actually former Vice President Al Gore had won. He would have won the election, so Scalia is part of the reason why we ended up in Iraq, getting 3,000 Americans killed and another 35,000 crippled, and killing hundreds of thousands of Iraqis and Afghans, and costing us trillions of dollars that they never bothered to put on the deficit until after President Obama took over. Then they said, "Oh, by the way, here's another $4 trillion that we spent that we didn't list." I'd like to thank the electronic media particularly for, during Black History Month, showing as many movies and programs as you can about slavery and how bad the black people were treated in this country. I'm sure that's going to make black people and white people come closer together. Thanks for nothing. Pete, Chicago Some people are talking about President Obama not picking the next Supreme Court justice to replace the late Antonin Scalia and to wait till the next election. Honestly, which one of the Republican candidates do you think could make a better pick to them? I thought so. None of them. Harvey I have a very good idea with the nice weather. Instead of waiting in line at the car wash, I looked outside and thought, "Look at how clean the snow is." It's called a snow bath. I invented it. Pick up snow in your hand. If it's squeezable, make a snowball. Rub all the salt off with the snow. Then pick up another handful. Throw it over the roof. Get an old towel. Dry it all. It really works, and it's a use for snow. I was shocked. Some kids walked by. They said, "That's a good idea." So it helps get the salt off. The snow's clean. Try it. Save your money for when car washes are less busy. Advertisement Pat, Chicago Ridge Regarding the late Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia: Why no autopsy? Daily Southtown Twice-weekly News updates from the south suburbs delivered every Monday and Wednesday > Jeri, Orland Park There was $1 million wasted on one fire truck in Homer Township Fire Protection District. Yes, years ago, the department wasted over a million dollars for one fire truck that doesn't even fit down 90 percent of Homer's streets and subdivisions. This truck is only used to joy ride or go and be in parades. This truck is meant for high-rise apartments, condominiums and office buildings, like in downtown Chicago. We don't have any in Homer Township. They could've bought six normal fire trucks or 12 paramedic ambulances. Now they want to raise our property taxes over a hundred dollars a year for things they don't need? We need to vote no on the fire referendum in March in Homer Township. Rock, Homer Glen I agree with other commenters. Donna Vickroy's column on losing her dog Ted was just absolutely wonderful. It did make me think of my little boys that I have lost and loved, and it made me think of my two little boys I have now. She is a great columnist, and I love her column. I hope she doesn't go away. Thank you very much. Advertisement Annie What's Speak Out? Speak Out allows readers to comment on the issues of the day. Email Speak Out at speakout@southtownstar.com or call 312-222-2427. Please limit comments to 30 seconds or about 120 words and give your first name and your hometown. Revelers celebrate during the first-ever Paddy-Joe Fest at Immaculate Conception Parish in Highland Park in 2015. The second annual event is scheduled for March 12. (Immaculate Conception Parish / HANDOUT) Andrew Calhoun, a chief musician with the U.S. Navy, transferred from Virginia to Highland Park last spring with his wife and four daughters. The timing was fortuitous, he said, as Immaculate Conception Parish was hosting its first-ever Paddy-Joe Fest, a celebration of the faith community's shared Irish and Italian heritages. Advertisement "We attended last year because we were brand new in town," Calhoun recalled. "The parishioners were all very friendly and inclusive." Immaculate Conception will stage its second annual Paddy-Joe Fest on March 12 at 6 p.m. at the church, 770 Deerfield Road. Advertisement The event is open to the public. This year, Calhoun, a guitarist since age 10, will be playing Irish folks songs as part of the festivities. "Stewardship and sharing your time and talents for your community are a major part of IC's mission," Calhoun said. "At last year's fest, I noticed that they were lacking Irish music, so I volunteered." The inaugural Paddy-Joe Fest attracted some 400 visitors, a testament to what Parish Manager Drew Patterson sees as a need for outreach in the faith community and the community at large. "Everybody really enjoyed the event and it's something they want more of," Patterson said. The fest will feature a bounty of traditional and Irish food served at the Blessings of St. Joseph's Table, organizers said. There will also be a Paddy's Pub & Irish Coffee cash bar, Irish dancers, a raffle, a cake walk and children's activities, including an inflatable bouncy house. Advanced registration will run through March 10. Admission is $20 for adults, $5 for children and $50 for families of any size. Walk-ins will be charged $5 extra. Celebrating the church's Italian and Irish heritages was the foundation on which to build Paddy-Joe Fest, organizers said, and it was also a way to ring in the spring season. But more, Patterson said, it promotes "being a good neighbor." People of all denominations are welcome to attend, he emphasizes. Advertisement Beyond that, Patterson said the fest aims "to raise awareness of IC and let people know we're here. As do all parishes, we are seeking to engage the public and help them to share the value of faith in a way that is applicable to their daily lives. The parish includes several interfaith families, and we want to create more synergy with the Jewish community. " Now settled in to Highland Park and the parish, Calhoun said he is looking forward to his second Paddy-Joe Fest. Besides attracting possible new members, he said "it opens up the church to everybody in the community who is just curious (about the church and the Catholic faith) or who just wants a fun family night out." For more information, contact Julie Harrigan at mjharrigan@sbcglobal.net. Donald Liebenson is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press Brad Schneider talks during the 10th Congressional Debate with Mayor Nancy Rotering on Sunday, February 28, 2016 at the Highland Park Country Club. (Mark Ukena/Pioneer Press) (Mark Kodiak Ukena / Pioneer Press) Questions about the Affordable Care Act and campaign finance reform highlighted a Sunday debate between the two Democrats vying for the chance to run in November for the 10th Congressional District. Brad Schneider, of Deerfield, who won the seat in 2012 but lost it two years later, and Nancy Rotering, who has served as Highland Park's mayor since 2011, will face off in the March 15 primary. Advertisement On Sunday, the candidates appeared before a packed audience in the Highland Park debate sponsored by League of Women Voter organizations covering Highland Park, Highwood, Deerfield, Lake Forest, Lake Bluff, Glencoe and Glenview. Brad Schneider talks during the 10th Congressional Debate with Mayor Nancy Rotering on Sunday, February 28, 2016 at the Highland Park Country Club. (Mark Ukena/Pioneer Press) (Mark Kodiak Ukena / Pioneer Press) The outcome of the primary will decide if the Republican incumbent, U.S. Rep. Robert Dold, of Kenilworth, faces a new challenger in November or a third matchup with Schneider. Advertisement One early question asked the candidates their plans for the Affordable Care Act, including limited choices on the health care exchanges. "One of the best moments of the Obama presidency was the passage of the Affordable Care Act," Schneider said. "Today, there are 18 million people who have insurance who didn't have insurance in 2010. Today, there are people with preexisting health conditions who have insurance who couldn't before get insurance. Today, somebody who might get sick doesn't need to worry about getting a letter from the insurance company (rescinding coverage)." However, Schneider acknowledged the law is not perfect. "In the last six years, technology has changed and our system for the delivery of health care has changed," he said. "Our laws are always going to have to be dynamic in order to match these changes." Schneider added that there need to be more options so consumers can purchase insurance they can afford and use the doctors they need to treat their conditions. Highland Park Mayor Nancy Rotering talks during the 10th Congressional Debate on Sunday, February 28, 2016 at the Highland Park Country Club. (Mark Ukena/Pioneer Press) (Mark Kodiak Ukena / Pioneer Press) Rotering said, "To me, the passage of the Affordable Care Act was one of the greatest things that has happened in the last 10 years and I appreciate all of the hard work that went into it. By the same token, there are still challenges. The costs continue to rise." More attention is needed, she said, to coordinating care, making sure physicians are not over-treating patients and reducing fraud and abuse. She also agreed the marketplace needs to be expanded so consumers have more choices. On the issue of campaign finance reform, both candidates decried the role that the U.S. Supreme Court's Citizens United ruling has played in "corrupting" the electoral process. Advertisement "Citizens United, I believe, will be regarded by history as one of the worst decisions this Supreme Court, or any Supreme Court, has ever made," Schneider said. "It is distorting our political process and corrupting our government." Schneider said he'd hoped the court would recognize its mistake, but "instead, they have doubled down." Brad Schneider talks during the 10th Congressional Debate with Mayor Nancy Rotering (left) on Sunday, February 28, 2016 at the Highland Park Country Club. (Mark Ukena/Pioneer Press) (Mark Kodiak Ukena / Pioneer Press) "As long as Congress is controlled by the Republicans, nothing is going to happen," Schneider said, contending that change will only come through a citizen-initiated constitutional amendment. "We have to end Citizens United, and we have to do it united as a people. If we don't do it, our system is going to be further corrupted." Rotering agreed that a constitutional amendment is needed. "Absolutely Citizens United is corrupting our Democratic process," Rotering said, citing a newspaper report that one half of the money going to presidential candidates was from a handful of families. "That is absolutely appalling. It is impossible for most people to run for office because of the financial demands they have to meet. The amount of time that needs to go into raising funds for this office, or any office is ludicrous. This is a disservice to all of us," she said, adding, "It is a disservice to democracy." kberkowitz@pioneerlocal.com Advertisement @KarenABerkowitz With the scope and penalties of Chinas social credit system being further clarified in 2021, legal and regulatory compliance has become more important than... Chinese shoppers' predilection for overseas products, as evidenced by the numbers who buy daily necessities abroad during the Spring Festival break, signals huge opportunities for domestic companies endeavoring to make better quality products. The mainlanders on vacation in Japan spent billions of yuan on household goods such as toilet lids and rice cookers, as well as basic products such as shampoo and toothpaste. Some people, such as Victor Chan, managing director of Daming United Rubber Products in Guangzhou, Guangdong province, blame the trend on Chinese people's blind worship of foreign commodities. He believes many products made on the Chinese mainland are now world-class, equal to any foreign competitor. However, Cai Jun, a 28-year-old bank clerk in Beijing, thinks differently. She spent Chinese New Year in Tokyo, where she picked up a rice cooker, an item that is available in any Chinese supermarket. "The rice cooker I bought enjoys a good reputation in China. Many of my friends told me Japanese rice cookers have a special technology," she said. Wang Qing, who visits Japan each year to buy everyday products, traveled to Kyoto for Spring Festival. "I'm not crazy about foreign brands," she said, "but the quality of many Chinese products means they are just not worth the price. Also, toothpaste made in Japan is double or triple the price in a Chinese supermarket." Her shopping list this year also included daily necessities that can be commonly found in most Chinese stores, including thermoflasks, blood pressure monitors, skin cream, multivitamins and breakfast cereal. "I stock up on necessities on my annual trip to Japan," Wang added. "It means I don't have to worry about product quality, while the price difference saves me the cost of a round-trip ticket." Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation. A branch of HomeLink. [File photo] A new undercover probe is warning of dodgy real estate agencies in Shanghai. The investigation has been jointly conducted by the Shanghai Consumer Rights Protection Commission and a group of local lawyers. They launched the probe amid a spike in complaints about real estate companies to the commission last year, which went from 40 in 2014 to around 600 last year. Most of the complaints revolve around sketchy business practices. In one case, Huang paid 2.8 million yuan in a down payment for a 4 million yuan apartment in Shanghai's Hongkou District. But it later turned out the apartment was under a seizure order from a local court, as the owner owed around 150 million yuan in business-related debt. Huang said his real estate broker assured him the owner was in a strong financial position and was selling the apartment to buy a better one. But he said that all changed after he signed his purchase agreement. "After the contract was signed, they showed me a rewritten house ownership report, which showed the house had been used as collateral to borrow money. I refused to continue with the contract, but they warned I would lose my collateral if I backed out of the contract." He said the company, HomeLink, has refused to accept responsibility. Instead, he said the firm has offered to lend him more than 1 million yuan to keep the deal alive. But in doing so, he said the firm wanted roughly 20 percent annual interest, which is far above market rates. In the end, this would have put the property above market value. Legal observer Jian Feng said Huang's case is a clear violation of the regulations governing loans. He said cases like this are a sign that more government oversight may be needed. "It's very dangerous when companies like this run their operations without registering these types of financial products or doing so without approvals. But it's begging the question of which government department is responsible in monitoring this kind of situation. It's a new question." The undercover investigation has also revealed wide-spread accusations of real estate agencies lying about prices and other information, as well as advertising properties already sold. Other instances have seen prospective buyers not being allowed to meet with the owners of the properties, telephone harassment and the imposition of additional fees. Tang Jiansheng with the Shanghai Consumer Rights Protection Commission said the combination of these types of issues is creating a major problem for the real estate sector in Shanghai. "The satisfaction rate in the Real Estate Agents & Brokers Industry is unbelievably low. The root causes of the complaints are the lack of integrity and the lack of rules in the sector." Municipal authorities in Shanghai are reportedly looking into ways of trying to better-regulate the city's real estate sector. Two people suspected of committing a double murder allegedly committed suicide yesterday after a three-hour car chase through Beijing, local police said. The pair are alleged to have shot dead a judge who ruled against one of them in a divorce settlement case. According to a statement on Beijing police's Weibo account, the men had attacked three other people, one of them an ex-wife, killing one and injuring two. The men used a homemade pistol to carry out the attacks, the statement said. Police were alerted to the shootings some time after 9:30pm, when the judge, identified as Ma Caiyun, was shot dead at her home in Changping District. The statement did not provide details of the car chase, but said it ended when the vehicle driven by the suspects came to a halt about 1am in Yanqing County. It also did not make clear if there was a standoff between the two sides, but claimed the two suspects were found dead inside their vehicle after committing suicide. Starting Tuesday, visitors to the National Museum of China in Beijing are going to have a rare chance to see the head of an ancient Buddha sculpture. Master Hsing Yun from Taiwan poses for a photo with an ancient Buddhist sculpture in Beijing on Friday, Feb. 26, 2016. The master returned the sculpture and escorted it back to the Chinese mainland. [Photo: Xinhua] The 1,500 year old Buddha head, which had been listed as stolen, has been returned to the mainland by Buddhist Master Hsing Yun of Taiwan. A private collector donated the 80 kg head to Master Hsing Yun, the abbot of Foguang Mountain Temple in the city of Kaohsiung, in 2014. Once he was told that it was the head of a Buddhist sculpture from the Youju Temple in Lingshou County in Hebei, the master immediately announced that he wanted to return it to its place of origin. The headless sculpture was reunited at the Foguang Mountain Temple last year. During the sculpture's stay in Taiwan, between May of 2015 and this February, more than 1.14 million people have turned out to see it. The sculpture, made of white marble, dates back to the Northern Qi Dynasty during the Southern and Northern Dynastic period dating back to the 5th century. The Northern Qi Dynasty lasted for only 28 years. As such, there are few relics left from that period. After a brief exhibition in Beijing, the rare treasure will be displayed in Hebei Museum in Shijiazhuang, the capital of north China's Hebei Province. Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation. Yin Weimin, Minister of Human Resources and Social Security, speaks at a press conference in Beijing on Monday. [China.org.cn] China creates more than 13.12 million new jobs for urban residents in 2015, a senior government official said on Monday. Yin Weimin, Minister of Human Resources and Social Security, released the data at a press conference, saying that China had created more than 13 million new jobs for urban residents annually since 2013, though the reading for 2015 was down 0.8 percent from the year before. He also revealed that China will release a plan on raising the retirement age this year to cope with pressures from a shrinking work force and an aging society. The official retirement age, which was adopted six decades ago when life expectancy was much lower, has not adapted to economic and social development, said Yin. China's retirement age is 60 for men, 55 for female white-collar workers and 50 for female blue-collar employees. The retirement ages in developed countries mostly range from 60 to 65, and even older in some countries, said Yin, adding it has been common practice to raise the retirement age worldwide. "We've already worked out a plan to postpone the retirement age, but it should be approved by the authorities before being released to solicit public opinion," he said. The policy changes in retirement age will be phased in over a long period of time, with only slight annual increases, Yin said, adding the adjustment will take into consideration different groups of workers. China is facing great challenges in dealing with a soaring senior population. The number of people aged 60 or over reached 212 million last year, accounting for 16 percent of the country's population. A formation of the Nanhai Fleet of China's Navy on Saturday finished a three-day patrol of the Nansha islands in the South China Sea. [Photo/Xinhua] The unruly and escalating rhetoric by some American politicians and navy leaders against China's activities in the South China Sea shows their disregard of Beijing's peace efforts for regional stability. Adm. Harry Harris Jr, commander of US forces in the Pacific, said at a congressional hearing on Tuesday that "China seeks hegemony in East Asia" and a change of "the operational landscape." Harris' remarks were echoed by two lawmakers, Republican Senator John McCain, who called China a "bully" in the Asia-Pacific region, and his Democratic colleague Jack Reed, who criticized China as an irresponsible stakeholder. These irresponsible statements are nothing more than a stereotype of intimidation. They have exaggerated China's peaceful military presence in the South China Sea, while neglecting on purpose the fact that China's activities in the region benefit everyone. The construction of lighthouses, weather forecasting systems, fisher shelters and rescue facilities on Chinese islands are for the public good and benefit passing ships. Furthermore, China's limited deployment of defense facilities on its islands has been routine for decades and is a legitimate right under international law. It is the United States that has been seeking hegemony in East Asia and a change of "the operational landscape" in the region. It has created a sense of insecurity among regional countries and could potentially lead to the outbreak of an arms race in the Asia-Pacific. Ignoring its promise not to take sides in the territorial disputes of the region as it is not a claimant, Uncle Sam has unfairly pestered China while turning a blind eye to the radars and military facilities deployed by other claimants that illegally occupy Chinese islands and reefs. Besides, Washington has strengthened surveillance of China's activities and conducted sabre-rattling military drills with other countries that have rival claims. For the more sober-minded, the South China Sea issue is not and should not be a source of tension between China and the United States. In fact, a vast potential to cooperate exists for them in such areas as the de-militarization in the South China Sea and enhancement of dialogues to reduce misjudgement and divisions. Both countries should view their relationship through the lens of a telescope, one that is far-reaching and broad, instead of through a microscope, one that is narrow and short-sighted. Mindful of the importance of bilateral relations, China adopts a cooperative and goodwill attitude, and maintains lines of communication to ease US concerns. It is highly advisable that the US keep its promise and stop meddling in the South China Sea. The author is a Xinhua writer. This year's the fourth session of the 12th National Committee of the CPPCC will kick off on March 3 and run until March 13th. The fourth annual session of the 12th National People's Congress (NPC) will open on March 5 in Beijing. With a population of 1.3 billion, China has become the world's second largest economy. Certainly China, under the leadership of the CPC, has made remarkable strides in economic, social and cultural fields in the past 20 years, lifting a half a billion people out of poverty. Chinese people have overcome major risks and challenges, and made great achievements in improving national strength in terms of economy, science and technology, defense, and international influence, over the past year. I hope that the Chinese people's well-being and China's future development will be the key theme in the upcoming annual two sessions of NPC and CPPCC. In 2015 China achieved a GDP increase by 6.9%, ranking among world's top ones. The economic structure keeps optimizing; the Chinese people are living a constantly improving life. In 2015 China successfully concluded the 12th Five-Year Guideline; the eighteen session of the Fifth Plenary Session of Communist Party of China released the 13th five planning proposals which draw a new blueprint for China's future development. I fervently believe that the annual sessions of China's top legislature and top advisory body will focus on the implementation of the 13th five-year development program, a scientific approach to development, as well as the building of a new socialist countryside. China's 13th Five Year Plan, from 2016 to 2020, is important for China to build a moderately prosperous society in all aspects. The 13th five-year plan highlights innovation, coordination, green development, opening-up and sharing, as well as structural reforms and serving the well being of all society. It is widely expected that the 13th five-year plan will maintain economic development as its central focus and guarantee social equity and justice through rule of law, and encourage innovation. The 13th five-year plan, the first under Chinese President Xi Jinping's leadership, is to map strategies for China's development with growth targets in the next 5-years. China is going to create new laws focusing on the protection of seniors' rights, comprehensive loan services and basic healthcare everyone. Legislation surrounding the protection of the maritime environment, poverty relief and food security has been prioritized during the 13th five-year plan. In the past five years, China has made remarkable progress in poverty reduction. China has lifted more than 600 million people out of poverty in the past 30 years, accounting for about 70 percent of those brought out of poverty worldwide. Dr. Margaret Chan Fung Fu-chun, the Director-General of the World Health Organization, said China has played a significant role in reducing poverty worldwide. Addressing the Global Poverty Reduction and Development Forum held in Beijing on 10th October, 2015 President Xi Jinping confirmed poverty alleviation would be one of the main goals in the 13th five-year plan. I quote from his speech: "To build a well-off society in an all-round way, it's a solemn promise to our people. The government must make poverty alleviation the top priority, to ensure that all poor people live in a well-off society and enjoy essential social services by 2020." In 2016, China is expected to lift more people out of poverty, with Chinese President Xi Jinping declaring in his New Year speech, "We should care for all people facing difficulties, making them feel warm from the bottom of their hearts." Follow China.org.cn on Twitter and Facebook to join the conversation. Flash Visitors admire an exhibit of relics at Beijing's Capital Museum.(Photo: China Daily/Shou Yiren) Beijing's Capital Museum is expanding its exchanges with other countries as part of the city's renewed focus on building a national cultural center. In the two years since President Xi Jinping visited the museum and decreed that preservation of China's cultural industry should be one of Beijing's key roles, the museum has been working to set an example for the city's arts institutions. Wang Anshun, Beijing's mayor, said the city will be focusing this year on cultivating cultural industries and better protecting cultural relics, consistent with Xi's mandates. Guo Xiaoling, the museum's director, attributes some new ideas to the president's visit to the museum in 2014. "Beijing aims to build a world-level cultural hub and museums should take responsibilities realizing the goal," Guo said. In striving to reach this goal, the museum has gradually become a window for international cooperation. It has partnered with the Edo-Tokyo Museum in Japan and the Seoul History Museum in South Korea to hold conferences and exchange exhibitions. Last year, the Capital Museum staged Seoul, a City of Streams: The Changing Fortunes of Cheonggyecheon. "Museums are not only cultural institutions, but have the function of promoting diplomacy and closely connecting different cities," Guo said. There is still much to do. President Xi's recommendation that museums compile records and chronicles has become a pillar for the institution's work. "We are processing projects on oral history and intangible cultural heritage to record the traditional Beijing lifestyle, for example," Guo said. "Everyone knows such work will take a long time. However, we need to leave some memories for future generations." Guo also is busily preparing to mark the museum's founding 35 years ago and its move 10 years ago to its current venue. The museum will celebrate the two milestones this year with a series of top-tier exhibitions. From March to June, the museum will stage an exhibition to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the discovery of the Fu Hao tomb and artifacts at Yinxu in Henan province. The site was identified as the final resting place of the queen and military general Fu Hao, who died about 1200 BC, and is the only Shang royal tomb found intact with its contents. When the Hall of Mental Cultivation at the Forbidden City undergoes a major renovation in the fall, its highlighted exhibits are also to be shown at the Capital Museum. Guo, who accompanied the president on his 2014 visit, said it was both memorable and inspirational. "He is more knowledgeable than I thought about museum work," Guo said. "He is really easy to approach and gave us some suggestions." The president was scheduled to visit the museum for half an hour, but stayed nearly 50 minutes, and stopped to remind photographers not to accidentally touch the cultural relics. "He suggested our exhibitions should let the history talk and present knowledge to visitors," Guo said. Guo said Xi's visit inspired the museum staff to look beyond exhibitions as a mere display of cultural relics. For example, Harmonious Life: The Fate of Ba in Eyes of Yan Princess, a 2014 exhibition, selected 190 sets of bronzeware to illustrate the rituals of North China 3,000 years ago from a princess' point of view. The exhibition was listed by the State Administration of Cultural Heritage as one of the country's Top 10 museum exhibitions that year. "The number of exhibits is not so many, but we pay much more attention than before to designing easily understood information for visitors, rather than a simple juxtaposition of cultural relics," Guo said. Guo is proud to have a young team - the average age of the museum staff members is about 35 - and he said they have been encouraged to create more scientific methods in cultural relic protection. Flash Armed militant groups along the border between Syria and Turkey fired tens of mortar shells and improvised rockets into the northern province of Latakia Sunday, reported the state news agency SANA. The mortar shelling targeted several areas in the city of Latakia in northwestern Syria, said the report, adding that the firing came from hilltops adjacent to the Turkish border. Most of the terrorists are members of the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, SANA claimed. Renewing their accusation that Turkey is behind the rebels fighting in Latakia, SANA said the areas between Latakia and Turkey harbors terrorists from different nationalities, including Saudis and Turks. It added that Syria's military operations in northern Latakia forced many militants to flee back to Turkey. The mortar shelling is the latest in a series of violence against the country despite a declared truce that excludes the Nusra Front and the Islamic State (IS) group, as both have been designated as terrorist groups by the United Nations. Flash The Palestinians on Sunday called for a binding international resolution to stop the Israeli settlement activity in the West Bank and to save the two-state solution. In a statement, the Palestinian Foreign Ministry said that Israel's policies on the settlement undermine the two-state solution through unilateral measures that target the existence of Palestinians on those lands. According to the interim Oslo Accords signed between the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Israel in 1993, the West Bank is divided into three zones: A, B and C, with Area A under Palestinian control, B under Israeli security and Palestinian administrative control, and C under full Israeli control. The ministry stressed that Israel must be held accountable for its violations and should retract its unilateral measures, most significantly the settlement activity, in order to save the two-state solution. It added that Israel is trying to take over natural resources for the benefit of Jewish settlers. Earlier this month, the EU Commission in Jerusalem told Xinhua that the EU demanded Israel to stop its policy of demolishing the EU-sponsored projects for Palestinians in Area C, which were carried out for humanitarian and development purposes. World powers, including the United States, have condemned the Israeli settlement polity which is considered one of the main disputes between the Palestinians and Israel. The U.S.-sponsored peace talks between Israel and the Palestinians have been stalled since April 2014. They lasted for nine months with no tangible results achieved. Flash Iraqi security forces on Sunday repelled an attack by Islamic State (IS) militants on a military base in west of the Iraqi capital of Baghdad, raising fears about possible push by the extremists into the capital, security sources said. Dozens of IS militants carried out a pre-dawn attack with three suicide car bombs on an army base and nearby grain silos in Hitawyeen area, just west of Baghdad's western suburb of Abu Ghraib, a local security source told Xinhua on condition of anonymity. Reinforcement troops and allied paramilitary Hashd Shaabi units arrived at the scene and pushed back the attackers after several hours of heavy clashes, leaving dozens of IS militants killed, the source said without elaboration. Immediately after the attack, the security forces imposed curfew on Abu Ghraib area and blocked all the roads leading to Baghdad in order to prevent any possible infiltration of IS militants to the Iraqi capital, the source said. The news of IS attack in Abu Ghraib area raised fears among Baghdad population the IS militant could be closer to the residential areas in the capital, especially after rumors said that dozens of families left their homes in Abu Ghraib area. The fears in Baghdad pushed Brigadier General Saad Maan, spokesman of Baghdad Operations Command, to issue a brief statement calling on the people "not to listen to malicious rumors about the existence of displacement of Abu Ghraib families," asserting that what happened was only a failed attack by the extremist militants on Hitawyeen area not Abu Ghraib itself. Abu Ghraib area, some 25 km west of Baghdad, located just north west of Baghdad international airport. The area is part of the volatile Sunni Arab area in west of Baghdad that stretches through Anbar province to Iraq's western borders with Syria, Jordan and Saudi Arabia. Government troops and allied militias have been fighting for months to retake control of key cities and towns in Anbar, Iraq's largest province, from IS militants, who previously seized most of Anbar and tried to advance toward Baghdad. Flash The United Nations Security Council has unanimously endorsed the agreement negotiated by Russia and the United States on a cessation of hostilities in Syria set to take effect at midnight Damascus time which Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon has welcomed as "our best chance to end the brutal violence" in the country after five years of war. Adopting a new resolution, the Council endorsed the joint statement announced on Monday by US Secretary of State John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, as co-chairs of the International Syria Support Group (ISSG) Ceasefire Taskforce, on the terms of a nationwide cessation of hostilities and demanded that the agreement take effect at midnight Damascus time. In a statement issued later in the evening by his spokesperson, Mr. Ban said full implementation of the resolution including unimpeded and sustainable humanitarian deliveries is the best chance to reduce the brutal violence in Syria. "What matters now are not the words of the resolution but whether it will make real changes on the ground and reduce the suffering of the Syrian people," he said, adding that implementation of the Council measure would also create space and the credibility for the UN Special Envoy for Syria to relaunch political negotiations over transition in accordance with the 2012 Geneva Communique and Council resolution 2254 (2015). The Security Council also demanded the "full and immediate" implementation of that text in order to facilitate a Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition in order to end the conflict in the country, stressing once again that the nation's people "will decide the future of Syria." Resolution 2254, unanimously adopted in December, gave the UN an enhanced role in shepherding the opposing sides to talks for a political transition, endorsing a timetable for a ceasefire, a new constitution and elections. Briefing the Council before the vote, the UN Special Envoy for Syria, Staffan de Mistura, said the cessation of hostilities was the result of lengthy and detailed discussions and the outcome of intense negotiations at the highest level. Speaking via videoconference from Geneva, he added that it was a "major achievement." Much work for the implementation of the agreement lay ahead, he continued, stressing that Saturday would be a critical day and warning that there would be no shortage of attempts to undermine the process under way. The international community must work fast to address any incidents that may arise, while all parties must demonstrate restraint. "We are now at a crossroads we have the possibility to turn the page [in Syria] after almost 5 years of one of the bloodiest conflicts in recent years. It is potentially, a historic junction to bring an end to the killing and destruction and to start a new life and new hope for the Syrians," he told the Council. Mr. de Mistura announced that, provided the cessation of hostilities held and humanitarian access was kept open, he intended to reconvene the intra-Syrian talks with with representatives of the Syrian Government and opposition, in Geneva on Monday, 7 March. The Special Envoy had been mediating those talks, but just two days after their official launch called for a pause on 3 February following differences between Government and opposition delegations on the priority of humanitarian issues. In today's text, the Council also demanded that all parties involved in the cessation of hostilities fulfil their commitments, and urged all Member States, especially ISSG members the Arab League, the European Union, the United Nations, and 17 countries, including the United States and Russia, who have been seeking a path forward for several months to use their influence with the parties to ensure fulfilment of those commitments and support efforts "to create conditions for a durable and lasting ceasefire." The Council also reiterated its call to the parties to immediately allow humanitarian agencies "rapid, safe and unhindered access" throughout Syria by most direct routes, and to immediately comply with their obligations under international law. Expressing support for the ISSG initiative to accelerate the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid, with the view towards "full, sustained and unimpeded" access throughout the country, the Council also reaffirmed its support for a Syrian-led political process facilitated by the UN. In the resolution, the Council also welcomed the cessation of hostilities as a "step towards a lasting ceasefire," reaffirming the close linkage between a ceasefire and a parallel political process, and that both initiatives should move ahead "expeditiously" as expressed in resolution 2254. Flash Two days into the landmark ceasefire, which covered parts of the country, people in the capital Damascus described a relatively calm day with no notable incidents Sunday, as battles against the militants, which were excluded from the truce, continued elsewhere. Syrians enjoy their evening in downtown Damascus, capital of Syria, on Feb. 28, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua] Despite the few breaches that took place in its first day, the second day of the ceasefire was holding up pretty well in Damascus. "The voices of shelling have dramatically declined in comparison with the pre-truce days," said Marwan, a technician in the eastern Tijara district, which is close to the hotspot suburb of Jobar, parts of which are held by the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front. Even though the areas held by the Nusra Front and the Islamic State (IS) group are excluded from the truce, the intensity of shelling and the daily mortar shelling has dramatically declined in the capital, pushing people to cease the moment and throng the streets and marketplaces on Sunday. For his part, Manhal, a 46-year-old lawyer, told Xinhua that some sounds of shelling were heard reverberating from the Eastern Ghouta countryside, where Jobar is located. "For sure, there are positions of the Nusra inside, but the truth is that the sounds have declined notably. We hope it could continue to decline for this truce to include all of the Syrian cities," he said. Damascus seems to be one of the main beneficiaries of the truce, as its surroundings don't have as thick presence of the IS and Nusra as in other areas and cities. In the countryside of the central province of Homs, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said intense battles were taking place on Sunday between the government forces and the IS in the vicinity of the strategic city of Qaryatain. It added that rocket fire targeted areas in the eastern countryside of Homs. The UK-based watchdog group said the Syrian forces shelled the rebel-held town of Dar al-Kabira and the village of Their Ma'leh. In the countryside of Aleppo, Kurdish fighters of the People's Protection Units (YPG) clashed with Islamist rebels in the Sheikh Maksud and Bani Zaid districts, which led to the injury of three people. The Observatory, which relies on a network of activists on ground, said airstrikes also targeted the town of Babis in the western countryside of Aleppo, leaving unknown losses. It added that the Syrian air force also struck rebel positions in the northern countryside of the northwestern province of Latakia. Meanwhile, the state news agency SANA said armed militant groups along the border between Syria and Turkey fired tens of mortar shells and improvised rockets into Latakia Sunday. It said the firing came from hilltops adjacent to the Turkish border, adding that the targets were areas in the northern countryside of Latakia. Most of the terrorists are members of the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, SANA claimed. Renewing their accusation that Turkey is behind the rebels fighting in Latakia, SANA said the areas between Latakia and Turkey harbors terrorists from different nationalities, including Saudis and Turks. It added that Syria's military operations in northern Latakia forced many militants to flee back to Turkey. With the ongoing battles against the Nusra and the IS, Ali Maksud, a retired Syrian officer, told Xinhua that the few breaches that had taken place during the truce near Damascus "will not affect the truce in general, because there is an international will to make the ceasefire a success." He stressed that the truce wasn't breached in Damascus on Sunday. Meanwhile, Russia and the Syrian opposition reported some breaches to the truce. Moscow said it had identified nine breaches of the truce by the rebels, while the opposition said it identified 15 breaches by the government forces. While saying it will send a formal letter of complaint about the breaches to the UN, the Syrian opposition High Negotiation Committee (HNC) said that despite violations "here and there," it was "positive to see people getting relief... to be safe, and free from fear." The cessation of hostilities plan, which went into force midnight Friday, was agreed as part of a U.S.-Russian plan. Moscow said the truce, the major cessation of hostilities during Syria's prolonged war, is holding in general. More than 250,000 people in Syria have been killed and almost half of the country's 23 million population displaced outside their homes. Flash UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon on Sunday called for "a prompt and impartial investigation" into the Saturday airstrike on a market in Yemen that killed at least 32 civilians. In a statement issued here by his spokesman, Ban "strongly condemns the apparent airstrike" on Khaleq market in Nehm district in northeastern Sanaa, whose death toll was among the highest from a single bombing since September 2015. The bombardment, reportedly carried out by the Saudi-led Arab coalition, also left at least 41 others injured. Other reports put the death toll around 45. "The secretary-general is concerned about the continuing intense airstrikes and ground fighting in Yemen despite his repeated calls for a cessation of hostilities," the statement said. The secretary-general expressed his sincere condolences and sympathies to the families of the victims, said the statement. "The secretary-general reminds all parties to the conflict of the utmost necessity to fully respect their obligations under international human rights law and international humanitarian law, which prohibits attacks directed against civilians and civilian objects, including populated markets," the statement said. "The secretary-general stresses that such attacks are considered serious violations of international humanitarian law," it added. Meanwhile, the statement said that "the secretary-general reiterates his call on all parties to the conflict in Yemen to engage in good faith with his special envoy for Yemen in order to agree on a cessation of hostilities as soon as possible and to convene a new round of peace talks," it added, referring to Ismail Ould Cheikh Ahmed, who has been engaged in painstaking efforts to mediate a political solution to the current Yemeni conflict. Yemen has been mired in an all-out civil war since September 2014, when the Shiite Houthi group, backed by forces loyal to the former president, invaded Sanaa and drove President Abd Rabbu Mansour Hadi into exile. The Saudi-backed Yemeni government forces have advanced to within 50 km from Sanaa earlier this month, after recapturing military posts in Nehm district and its mountains overlooking the rebel-held capital from the northeast. The advance, backed by Saudi-led warplanes, came very slowly because of the rebel-planted minefields in the roads ahead toward Sanaa. The Saudi-led coalition started daily air bombings on the Shiite Houthi rebels and their allied forces since March 2015, vowing to drive out the rebels and retrieve the capital. More than 6,000 people have been killed in ground battles and airstrikes, half of them civilians. China Aid By Rachel Ritchie (Wenzhou, ZhejiangFeb. 25, 2016) Today, on the six-month anniversary of prominent human rights lawyer Zhang Kais detention, Chinese media aired footage of the lawyer confessing to disturbing social order and endangering state secrets. Zhang was apprehended on Aug. 25, 2015, after police climbed the walls of Xialing Church where Zhang and two assistants were working to defend local churches from forced cross demolitions. Today marked six months since Zhang was taken into custody and placed under residential surveillance at a designated location, or a black jail. The end of this six-month holding period marked the deadline for authorities to either charge Zhang and officially detain him or release him. Over the course of his time in black jail, officials refused to let Zhang meet with friends, family or legal representation. His appearance on television today marks the first time he has been seen since police took him away. Zhang Kai (Photo: China Aid) Although China Aid was mentioned in the shameful Communist Party of Chinas official propaganda in the broadcast as the overseas force supporting Zhang Kais legal defense work, we will never be intimidated or cease to continue to promote religious freedom for all in China, said China Aid founder and president, Bob Fu. Some speculate that the timing of this confession is not an accident, as it coincides with the end of the holding period, and raise the possibility that Zhang was pressured into making edited remarks. China Aid will continue to monitor Zhangs situation and report new information as it becomes available. China Aid reports on human rights and rule of law abuses, like those experienced by Zhang Kai, in order to promote religious freedom and rule of law in China. China Aid Contacts Rachel Ritchie, English Media Director Cell: (432) 553-1080 | Office: 1+ (888) 889-7757 | Other: (432) 689-6985 Email: [email protected] Website: www.chinaaid.org Democratic Voice of Vietnam DVOV Editor February 22 2016 22 February 2016 Taoyuan, Taiwan A collection of international organizations, religious leaders, parliamentarians, journalists, government officials, and civil society organizes gathered in Taoyuan, Taiwan to hold the Asia Pacific Religious Freedom Forum (APRFF) to strategize to defend and protect religious freedom in the region. The forum emphasized collaborations between its diverse stakeholders and culminated in a Taiwan Declaration of Religious Freedom to be disseminated in the coming weeks. This was an excellent opportunity for religious communities and victims of persecution to connect with one another, says Dr. Thang Nguyen, president of Boat People SOS, who was a panel speaker at the event. Thang, whose organization focuses on human rights issues in ASEAN adds, Through the hard work of organizers like ChinaAid, this conference was a rare chance for people living in countries with repressive governments to not only have their stories heard but to also learn about the wider movement of freedom of religion based in the United States and elsewhere. Cao Dai representative Kim Vo meets Taiwans former vice-president Annette Lu One such group was the Popular Bloc of the Cao Dai Religion from Vietnam, an independent religious community who have had nearly all their properties confiscated and their sect banned by the government only to be replaced by a government set-up group. In 1997, [the government] created a new leadership for our religion. They appointed the leaders who are actually serving the government and not our religion, explained Cao Dai representative Kim Vo during a discussion session on advocacy strategies. We are a small community. We have no voice we can cannot do advocacy with our government at all. Therefore, I am here to look for organizations out here to do advocacy with your own governments, she added. The Popular Bloc of the Cao Dai religion are now considering setting up an interfaith roundtable for independent groups in Vietnam and are also hoping to join regional human rights groups and Vietnams independent CSOs at this years ASEAN Civil Society Conference / ASEAN Peoples Forum. In total, there were 99 participants representing 26 different countries in attendance. The conference concluded with a Taiwan Declaration on Religious Freedom to finalized and released in the near future. Learn more about the Asia Pacific Religious Freedom Forum. China Aid Contacts Rachel Ritchie, English Media Director Cell: (432) 553-1080 | Office: 1+ (888) 889-7757 | Other: (432) 689-6985 Email: [email protected] Website: www.chinaaid.org By Gerry Shih | AP February 28 Beijing A Chinese husband and wife who led a Christian congregation that opposed a government campaign to remove crosses atop churches have been given long prison sentences for illegal activities, including corruption and disturbing social order, state media said. A court in eastern Zhejiang province on Friday sentenced pastor Bao Guohua to 14 years in prison and his wife, Xing Wenxiang, to 12 years after concluding that they had illegally organized churchgoers to petition the government and disturb social order, according to the state-run Zhejiang Daily newspaper. The couple also was accused of tricking members of its congregation into donating $336,000 that was spent on cars and other personal purchases while pretending to lead an ascetic lifestyle, the newspaper said. The court sentenced 10 other church members to prison, the report said, without giving details. For the past two years, Zhejiangs Christians, particularly in the coastal city of Wenzhou, home to a large Christian population, have been locked in a bitter dispute with local authorities who have removed hundreds of crosses from churches in the province, saying they violate building codes, or demolished churches altogether. Zhejiangs religious leaders, many of whom lead churches sanctioned by the government, say the attitudes of local authorities have turned sharply negative in recent years as the Christian population grew in number and influence. Several well-known figures who have resisted the government campaign to remove crosses through legal challenges or public denunciations have been targeted with criminal prosecutions. The clash over the Zhejiang Christians religious rights has been complicated by the fact that they have received help from overseas supporters at a time when the Chinese government is particularly sensitive to what it considers foreign meddling in domestic issues. In the past year, Chinas government has relentlessly pursued and jailed human rights lawyers that have received training and funding from foreign sources. Zhang Kai, a Beijing-based Christian lawyer who was detained one day before he was due to meet a U.S. envoy in August, was shown on television late Thursday night confessing to organizing illegal religious gatherings and undermining Chinas political system with backing from China Aid, a Texas-based group that has funded the churches efforts to resist the cross removals. China Aid said in a blog post Friday that the government action against Baos church and other Christian leaders amounted to religious persecution. Last month, provincial authorities opened a separate corruption probe into the prominent pastor Gu Yuese, who openly spoke out against the governments clampdown on Christian activity. With 10,000 members, Gus Chongyi church is the largest Protestant congregation in the Chinese-speaking world. China Aid Contacts Rachel Ritchie, English Media Director Cell: (432) 553-1080 | Office: 1+ (888) 889-7757 | Other: (432) 689-6985 Email: [email protected] Website: www.chinaaid.org Two women inspect a Breguet wrist watch inlaid with 706 diamonds, and priced 1.77 million yuan ($276,563).CHINA DAILY As Chinese spend on high fashion worldwide, local firms go shopping for brands to expand Retailers, investors and industry insiders believe China's luxury goods industry, despite losses for the second year in a row in 2015, is still well on its way to a brighter future, coasting on the momentum of double-digit growth in recent years, said consulting firm Bain & Co. The Fortune Character Institute's research findings appear to confirm the optimistic outlook. In 2015, Chinese consumers bought 46 percent of the luxury goods consumed worldwide. But 78 percent of it was bought outside China. Chinese consumers of high fashion and luxury goods are becoming increasingly discerning too. Not for them any brand that is easily available or visible. By buying and encouraging the best among the existing luxury brands, Chinese consumers are emerging to be trendsetters. To ride the rising wave of fashion consciousness among Chinese consumers, Shandong RuyiGroup, one of China's leading textile producers, reportedly joined the bidders for French fashion group SMCP on Jan 20, according to a Bloomberg report. SMCP is estimated to be worth more than $1 billion. The group owns affordable luxury brands such as Maje and Sandro, which have been enjoying surging popularity among China's rising middle class in recent years. Shandong RuyiGroup is ranked among the top four of China's 500 leading textile enterprises. Its consolidated annual revenue hit a record 30 billion yuan ($4.7 billion) in 2013. The group declined to comment on its reported interest in acquiring SMCP. Any such acquisition would be "just a drop in the bucket as the Chinese are fast climbing on to the upper chain of the luxury industry", said Zhou Ting, director of the Fortune Character Institute. "The (luxury) market remains one of the most lucrative for now and (shall remain so over) the next decade. This means, if Chinese companies and investors want a share, they should be more actively involved in every link of the supply chain, from designing and manufacturing to marketing and retailing." Things have been moving in that direction of late. For instance, China's homegrown online fashion retailer VipshopHoldings, known for its discounts, invested several millions of pounds in November for a minority stake in British fashion-maker BrandAlley, to introduce more British brands in China. A month earlier, its competitor, Secoo.com, created quite a splash by opening the first cross-border experience store at Piazza Del Duomo, one of Milan's most-visited shopping areas. Li Rixue, founder and CEO of Secoo.com, established the website seven years ago in Beijing. He called the Milan store "part of the company's ten-year globalization plan". Industry insiders said that Secoo.com's aggressive expansion reflects a strategy to target high-spending Chinese tourists in Europe. Zhou said what, where and how the Chinese buy will likely determine where Chinese, and probably global, investors' money would be pumped in. A housing project in Luoyang, Henan province. [Provided to China Daily] BEIJING -- China's supply of state-owned construction land declined in 2015, with land used for real estate development dropping the most, according to the Ministry of Land and Resources (MLR). Total state-owned construction land slumped 12.5 percent year on year to 534,000 hectares in 2015, while land used for real estate development plummeted 20.9 percent to 120,000 hectares. Land used for industry, mining and warehouses fell 15.2 percent, and that for infrastructure dropped 7.1 percent, according to the MLR. The slump in land supply for real estate purposes came at a time when the country's property sector is facing a supply glut. Investment slowed as developers tried to sell existing homes. To tackle these problems, policy makers introduced measures including slashing the minimum down payments requirement and reducing taxes on some property transactions. Latest home price data suggested an uneven recovery in China's housing market, with prices in first-tier cities such as Shenzhen and Beijing soaring while those in some smaller cities are still under pressure. The MLR data also showed that by the end of 2015, land price for commercial and residential purposes in 105 cities rose 2.7 percent and 3.92 percent respectively compared with a year earlier. A view of M on the Bund, the first fine-dining restaurant to appear along Shanghai's most famous tourist stretch. CHINA DAILY The Bund, Shanghai's famous riverfront along the western bank of the Huangpu, attracts up to 900,000 visitors every day, but only about 10 percent of them are locals, a fact which will soon become history as a grand project is underway to commercialize the upscale area with commoner-friendly restaurants. The Bund represents Shanghai's glorious past and its current position as China's financial capital. Evening rush hours often see crowds pouring onto the streets in the area: people heading home after work or to pubs and resturants for happy-hour drinks. The Bund area is home to banks and trading houses, all located in the old regal buildings that line the streets. "The weird thing about the Bund is that everyone knows it and likes it, but the locals hardly visit it," said Wang Chih-Jen, an executive in the development and management team at Bund 5, a six-story 1920s building that is gearing up to house restaurants soon. Bund 5 is among the properties that is expected to see much action in the days to come. Real estate developers, restaurateurs and the city's government officials are looking to turn the waterfront stretch into a prime dining area for not just wealthy tourists but locals, including those driving through the Bund streets. The Transportation Commission estimates 80 percent of the vehicles that use the six-lane road by the Bund every day merely pass through, and do not head toward any attraction or restaurant in the area. Bund 5, the headquarters of Nisshin Kisen Kaisha, Japan's largest shipping company in China in 1920s, will be the first to attempt to change the situation. Some ten restaurants will open in it and offer multiple cuisines. Food will range from South American steak and hot pot to Western fine dining items. Dozens of restaurants are expected to open in the next few years in the Huangpu district, where the Bund and 100-plus restaurants are located. So far, factors like traffic congestion, limited parking bays and the notion that the Bund is for only the rich and foreigners, kept local residents from the area. Such notions were not completely unfounded. The Bund is where Michelin-starred chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten runs his swanky establishments such as Jean-Georges and Mercato. The area is also home to Paul Pairet's Mr and Mrs Bund, a modern French restaurant where customers usually spend at least $100 per person for a meal. So, the new restaurants will try to rid the Bund of its elitist image by becoming wallet-friendly. "The average cost per person at most of the restaurants in Bund 5 will be around 300 to 500 yuan, which should be affordable for important celebrations or occasions once every few months," said Wang. That would herald a massive change for Michelle Garnaut, an Australian restaurateur and chef who first opened the M on the Bund in 1999. "When I decided to open a restaurant here, everyone warned me that nobody was ever gonna eat on the Bund. For the first five years, we were all alone in this area, a dark and dingy place that barely had anything else." For a long time, the M on the Bund was the preferred restaurant of prominent visitors such as the United Kingdom's Prince Edward and media tycoon Rupert Murdoch. But it was not until 2004 that the century-old area started to gain a buzz. That year, Entrepreneur Vanna Teng turned the former Standard Chartered Bank building into a department store-like property that combined luxury shops, art galleries and fine-dining places. For years after, plush fashion boutiques and jewelry stores transformed the Bund into the acme of luxury shopping in China. However, with slowdown in the luxury goods industry in recent times, major brands such as Patek Phillipe and Giorgio Armani started to vacate the premises while restaurants gradually began to enter the scene. If there is one establishment the new restaurants in Bund 5 can emulate, it would probably be The Nest, a lounge bar that became an instant hit with the locals when it opened in December 2014. It is a product of a collaboration between nightclub brand Muse Group and French vodka brand Grey Goose. Located slightly away from the central areas of the Bund, the classy place offers a relaxing atmosphere, and has earned itself a reputation for quality cocktails and creative culinary creations that don't come with price tags locals would scoff at. According to Mark Klingspon, managing director of The Nest, more than 80 percent of the guests are young Chinese professionals, working for international brands and companies. He added The Nest has enjoyed double-digit growth for 11 consecutive months now. "We are either very lucky or we did something right. I think we have connected to a guest demographic that most restaurants would dream of attracting," said Klingspon. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi speaks at a press conference after signing documents in Shanghai, east China, Feb 27, 2016. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and the New Development Bank 's President K.V. Kamath signed an agreement while Shanghai Mayor Yang Xiong and Kamath signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the headquarters of the bank in Shanghai. (Xinhua/Fang Zhe) SHANGHAI -- China and the BRICS New Development Bank signed documents on the bank's headquarters in Shanghai on Saturday, marking the completion of the legal procedures before the operation of the bank. Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and the bank's President K.V. Kamath signed an agreement while Shanghai Mayor Yang Xiong and Kamath signed a Memorandum of Understanding on the headquarters of the bank in Shanghai. The documents, signed on the sidelines of the G20 Finance Ministers and Central Bank Governors Meeting in Shanghai, governs the establishment of the headquarters of the bank in Shanghai and make provision for the requisite immunities, privileges and other facilities to be accorded to the bank. The bank, launched last July, is a multilateral development institution operated by the BRICS members (Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa) as an alternative to the existing multilateral development bodies like the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund. The bank, with an initial subscribed capital of $50 billion to finance, will "start appraisal of the potential projects in April," Wang said, adding that China hopes the bank will support the development and connectivity of BRICS countries and developing countries at large. The bank, aiming at funding infrastructure and sustainable development projects, should strive to make itself a new type of multilateral development institution, operating in a professional, transparent, efficient and green manner, Wang said. China supports India to host a successful BRICS leaders' meeting this year and China, as rotating chair next year, will work with other BRICS countries to promote the economic and political cooperation in parallel, Wang said. Commenting on the downward pressure faced by BRICS economies, Wang said economic slowdown is not a unique problem of the BRICS members, but a problem worldwide. "The BRICS countries are poised for growth and increasing role in international political and economic affairs," Wang said. Kamath said he hoped the bank would soon start operation and contribute to the development of BRICS countries and other developing nations. From ride-hailing business to online auctioneers, sharing economy platforms have created a market worth 1.95 trillion yuan ($298 billion) in 2015, according to figures released by the National Information Center Sunday. (Xinhuanet file photo) BEIJING -- From ride-hailing business to online auctioneers, sharing economy platforms have created a market worth 1.95 trillion yuan ($298 billion) in 2015, according to figures released by the National Information Center Sunday. There are 50 million sharing business providers in China and they have more than 500 million consumers, according to a report by the center. The sharing economy satisfies a variety of needs in daily life and business. In addition to taxi-hailing apps such as Didi, product, knowledge and service-based providers have mushroomed on the Internet, said Yang Yixin, deputy secretary-general of the China Internet Association, at a press conference issuing the report. Zhang Xinhong, with the National Information Center's Information Research Department, said China's sharing economy would grow at an annual rate of 40 percent in the next five years, and would take up more than 10 percent of China's GDP by 2020. Taxi-hailing app Didi, the result of a merger between two separate startups in early 2015, raised tens of billions of US dollars last year from domestic and overseas investors. Li Jianhua, chief development officer of Didi, said the hailing service received 1.4 billion calls in 2015, a figure Li expects to double by 2016. The report forecast that in the next decade, five to 10 firms with similar value and influence as Didi will establish themselves in the sharing economy. The country's stock market may continue to gain in anticipation of more detailed policies and market reforms.CHINA DAILY A-share market set to reinforce its record of celebrating positive news promptly with a surge in coming weeks China's stock market may extend gains in the first fortnight of March on hopes of positive government announcements. The two weeks will see the two annual sessions of the National People's Congress, the top legislature, and the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, the top advisory body. While the NPC will be in session from March 5 to 15, the CPPCC will meet from March 3 to 13. Investors are anticipating more detailed economic policies and market reforms from the two sessions. For, China is trying to re-orient its economic growth to a more sustainable and effective pattern. Qiao Yongyuan, an analyst with Guotai Junan Securities, said: "It is customary for the A-share market to respond immediately to the goings-on at the two sessions." Topics like supply-side reforms, stable growth, currency exchange rates, initial public offerings, and financial market regulations are expected to be discussed at the meetings. Data shows the benchmark Shanghai Composite Index rose 11 times in the last 20 years during the two-session period. According to Shanghai WIND Information Technology Co Ltd, the SCI gained 2.92 percent on average during the two-session period in the past 20 years. The highest rise of 9.1 percent came in 1997. Cao Jialiang, 26, a Shanghai-based investor, said: "I observed that in the past five years alone, the A-share market always rose during the two-session fortnight, except in 2013." Analysts said such data are not scientific, but investor sentiment now appears to favor a rise in the A-share market in early March, given that many trading accounts have been idle since the 2015 summer market rout. Guodu Securities said in a research note several sectors are closely related to the key topics that will likely be discussed at the two sessions. So any positive announcements may see an immediate rally in the stocks of companies in such sectors. The research note said housing, medical services and education are among the sectors that are most likely to surge during the two-session period. A-shares of real estate developers and builders, medical service providers, pharmaceutical companies and education-related companies, including professional training providers, may gain. Gao Ting, a China strategist at UBS Group AG, said the country may well see a fresh wave of reforms by March-end to support the gradual improvement of A-shares' valuations, especially of large-cap shares. Gao said in a research note investors may re-prioritize and choose to buy stocks based on fundamentals. Considering uncertainty over economic growth and policy changes, sectors that may benefit from a changing consumption structure and shrinking inventories are among the best choices now for investors, he said. wuyiyao@chinadaily.com.cn An investor checks stock prices at a securities brokerage in Nanjing, Jiangsu province, Feb 29, 2016. [Photo/IC] Chinese stocks tumbled on Monday with the benchmark index heading toward its lowest level this year as investors rushed to dump shares on concerns of further volatility. The benchmark Shanghai Composite Index sank 2.86 percent to close at 2687.98 points. The index plunged as much as 4.6 percent during intraday trading. It managed to recoup some of the earlier losses in late afternoon trading led by the recovery of big-cap banking and energy stocks. ChiNext, the start-up index that tracks high-tech and innovative companies listed in Shenzhen, sank by 6.69 percent to its lowest level since September. Analysts said the stock dumping on Monday may have to do with investors' fears of the launch of the registration-based system for initial public offerings, which may flood the market with new share supplies. Li Daxiao, the chief economist at Yingda Securities Co said pessimism has been released and the bullish sentiment could gradually gain some ground after Chinese authorities reassured investors with continued monetary easing at the G20 meeting over the weekend. BEIJING - Chinese ride-hailing service Didi said on Monday that transactions on its platform hit a record high in January, exceeding those of similar services in the United States and Canada combined. The gross merchandise value generated from Didi's transportation services in China rose to $800 million in January, compared with $600 million generated in the same period by similar services in the United States and Canada. The surge in transactions was fueled by the continued penetration of Didi's ride-on-demand services into more than 200 lower-tier cities. The Beijing-based start-up has been expanding its ride-on-demand services to lower-tier Chinese cities since December to retain its dominance in fierce competition with rivals such as Uber and CAR. Uber previously said it aims to operate in 100 Chinese cities this year. The expansion into lower-tier cities helped Didi gain 10 million new users for its ride-on-demand services in January. Didi also said it has managed to turn a profit in half of the more than 400 Chinese cities where it operates. The start-up, valued at $16.5 billion, has been billed as a success of the "sharing economy" in China, as a growing number of Internet start-ups have mobilized private cars, homes and kitchens to provide services to users. Heavy traffic during an evening rush hour in Beijing last September. The authorities are working on new measures to ease the traffic pressure in the capital.KUANG LINHUA/CHINA DAILY Beijing may sell automobile license plates by auction instead of the current lottery system from April, as one of planned new measures to ease the city's traffic congestion. The authorities will release new measures before April 10, the day the city's current traffic restrictions expire. Asked about whether the current car ban restriction would be changed in April, Rong Jun, spokesman for the Beijing municipal commission of transport, said it is still under review by traffic departments. However, he said the capital's transportation departments are evaluating some market-based reform programs to distribute the car plate quotas. "The final plan has not been made yet. But there are many measures that can be used for reference, such as the car plate auctions in Shanghai," he said. "We have put forward different adjustments several times in the past, but the original measure has ended up being kept every time as we consider residents have got used to it," Rong said. At present one-fifth of the city's vehicles are banned from the streets each weekday based on their license plate number. Shi Jianhua, deputy secretary general of the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers, urged the government to improve the road infrastructure, instead of imposing restrictions. "The government should think about how to create good rules for society, not limit it," Shi said. He said the government should not deprive people of their right to own and drive a car. He believes optimizing the capital's road network is the key to solving its congestion problem. But Cassie Zhang, a 32-year-old Beijing resident, said she would welcome a license plate auction with open arms, as she believes it would be more reliable than the current lottery. "You will get a car as long as you have money to bet," she said. Zhang put her name on the lottery list last year as her family needs a second car. Plans and measures On Feb 5, the commission unveiled its goals of controlling the traffic congestion indices in the urban center to 5.7 and raising the percentage of environmentally conscious travelling to 71 percent. Last year, the commission drew up its five-year plan for 2016 to 2020, which includes operating 1,000 kilometers of rail transit and 1,000 km of bus routes, and making 75 percent of the city's residents travel by public transport, bicycle or on foot. As a cosmopolitan city with more than 21 million people and 5 million vehicles, Beijing faces severe traffic congestion. Policymakers have made several moves to ease the problem since last year. At the beginning of the year, the municipal government proposed a controversial suggestion to ban half of the city's vehicles from the roads on alternate days during the "winter heating season" from November to March. This suggestion provoked a lot of public concern, and it was eventually dropped. However, Rong said earlier this month that the department will use "economic leverage and necessary administrative means" to reduce vehicle use this year, and the authorities are considering raising the parking fees in the city's central area and introducing flexible working times and other measures to ease the traffic pressure. The annual plan issued this month encouraged companies located in busy downtown areas of Beijing, such as the Central Business District, Financial Street and Zhongguancun, to apply flexible commuting times during rush hours for their employees. It also continues promoting the development of new-energy vehicles. This year, the commission will keep the annual car license plate quota to 150,000, the same as last year, but reduce the quota for gasoline-powered cars to 90,000. The electric car quota will be doubled to 60,000. Currently 2.58 million Beijing residents have put their name on the waiting list for a car plate. The commission's five-year plan also mentioned the idea of charging a congestion fee, which has sparked debate. Zhou Zhengyu, head of the commission of transport, said a few months earlier the commission will evaluate the possibility of collecting a congestion fee sometime this year, and discuss collection methods and which areas of the city should be charged. duxiaoying1@chinadaily.com.cn Visitors check out a new energy vehicle at an exhibition in Shanghai in November. The State Council recently released new guidance aimed at encouraging the development of the new energy vehicle industry. LONG WEI/CHINA DAILY Government announces big investment in R&D institute China announced on Thursday, 500 million yuan ($76.6 million) will be invested in a research and development institute for new energy vehicle batteries, with the government leading nine companies in search of breakthroughs in advanced traction battery technology. Minister of Industry and Information Technology Miao Wei said at a news conference: "Advanced traction battery technology determines the performance, quality, safety, and more, of new energy vehicles. As far as we know, all the other new energy vehicle manufacturers, except BYD, are purchasing not making batteries." The announcement was made a day after the State Council, China's cabinet, released new guidance on Wednesday designed to encourage the development of the new energy vehicle industry. The sector is to receive incentives instead of the current subsidies, and the government is encouraging enterprises, universities and research institutions to cooperate in traction battery research and development, in expectation of "revolutionary breakthroughs" in battery performance. Rechargeable traction batteries are used to power NEVs, especially pure electric vehicles that need high-capacity batteries. The makers of traction batteries will receive incentives when their products meet the required performance standards and their sales volumes reach a certain level. More battery charging facilities will be built, but the constructor and operators' incentives will be decided by the amount of electricity consumed. Zhang Junyi, a partner of Roland Berger Strategy Consultants, said: "The central government has shown its determination, as the policies are becoming more precise. It has considered operation and maintenance, and the new measures evade one-off deals. To receive the money, a company must have cars or facilities in operation for a while with accumulative data." "The big players deserve the support, as they can secure the quality and safety with advanced research and development. They have the edge in technology and market advantage, especially the manufacturers of electric buses," said Jia Xinguang, a senior analyst at the China Automobile Dealers Association. The State Council has pledged to establish a NEV safety monitoring system, compensation scheme and market exit mechanism. Other measures include increasing the share of new energy vehicles in the public transportation system and improving their quality. NEVs have continued to gain popularity in China, as the market size exceeded 331,100 units last year, more than triple that of 2014, according to data from the China Association of Automobile Manufacturers. Battery technology Chen Ning, director of Deloitte China Automotive Consulting Practice, said ternary lithium was the mainstream technology, and many battery makers had expanded their production capacities to meet the volume criteria for government subsidies. However, the Ministry of Industry and Information Technology halted subsidies for ternary lithium batteries earlier this month, and abolished the subsidy program in January for all ternary lithium battery powered buses. Huang Shilin, chairman of Contemporary Amperex Technology Ltd, China's leading traction battery maker, told China Daily earlier that the battery industry in China has developed very fast thanks to the government subsidies and tax cuts. Chinese carmaker Chongqing Changan Automobile Co has joined hands with Zhejiang Geely Holding Group Co in a subsidiary joint venture to develop hybrid powertrains, hoping to realize an ambitious new energy vehicle plan. Changan Automobile, Kunming Yunnei Power Co and Hunan Corun New Energy Co plan to inject more than 460 million yuan ($70.7 million) in total into Corun Hybrid System Technology Co, or CHS. Changan Automobile is investing 100 to 120 million yuan in money and technology properties valued at 80 to 100 million yuan. Hunan province based CHS is a joint venture established between Corun and Geely in 2014 for research and development of hybrid powertrains, with a 10 billion yuan investment plan. CHS is expected to start volume production by 2017 with an annual production capacity of 100,000 powertrains, after completing the first phase of plant construction. It has received 100 million yuan fiscal support from the government, according to a stock exchange document Corun filed last year. Yang Dayong, director of the brand and product department at Changan Automobile, told local media: "The company is developing new energy vehicles with two types of powertrains, both plug-in hybrid and pure electric, because the direction for the development of new energy vehicles is not set yet, and there's no agreement on approaches in the industry." Changan Automobile announced in March 2015 that a total of 34 new energy models would be launched by 2025, including 27 pure electric cars and seven plug-in hybrid cars. Zhong Faping, chairman of Corun, said that the hybrid powertrain technology platform is a platform open to everyone, and CHS is also promoting cooperation with other car makers. He envisions more automakers and part suppliers working with CHS in the future. Hunan Corun, which specializes in automotive traction battery productions, has had a joint venture with Toyota Motors since 2013, and became the world's number one automaker's major battery supplier in China. Geely said in a statement: "CHS is an open platform, and we embrace new partnerships with an open mind for win-win cooperation." Geely has a right to inject up to 200 million yuan in the future. Geely Automobile is set to launch its CHS powered Emgrand EC7 hybrid electric edition in the first half of this year. The car consumes just 4.9 liters of fuel per 100 kilometers. Six Emgrand cars powered by 1.8-liter methanol engine were tested in Iceland on Tuesday. The automaker plans to have more than 90 percent of its total sales volume contributed by NEV models, according to the strategy it announced in November last year. Its NEVs also include methanol vehicles, besides plugin hybrid, pure electric, hybrid electric vehicles. Visitors shop for a parallel import car at the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone.LAI XINLIN/CHINA DAILY City aims to pass FTZ policies to clear way for gray-product companies to conduct business Tianjin plans to continue developing parallel auto imports in its free trade zone this year after it recently reported a surge in such imports last year. In a parallel import, independent auto dealers directly purchase vehicles from a foreign production base or auto dealer. Prices for parallel-import cars are normally 10 to 20 percent lower than the prices offered by authorized dealers. The rise in parallel car imports last year comes after overall car imports at Tianjin fell 31.4 percent last year to 379,900 units. Parallel imports rose 14.1 percent to 79,000 units, according to city authorities. Shan Zefeng, vice-governor of the Binhai New Area district in Tianjin, where the FTZ is located, was quoted by media outlets last week as saying that the district will support parallel auto import businesses to accelerate economic growth. Shan said the district will invest 100 million yuan ($15.3 million) to improve the management of parallel auto import companies, lower logistics costs and establish an after-sales service network. The district will also work with Tianjin Port, customs, inspection and quarantine authorities, financing firms and Tianjin Port Holdings Co Ltd to make it easier for parallel auto import companies to conduct business. Shan said a draft of new policies to open the way for parallel auto import companies is currently open for public opinion. A final version will be released in the near future. The district will also set up a chamber of commerce for parallel auto import businesses to issue regulations and establish industry standards. "Tianjin's moves will benefit the development of the parallel auto import market," said Jia Xinguang, senior analyst with the China Automobile Dealers Association, adding that the chamber of commerce would protect the interests of parallel auto import businesses. Continued growth Parallel auto imports have existed in China in the gray for years. At the beginning of last year, China green-lighted the gray market for the Shanghai FTZ in an attempt to lower the high prices that Chinese customers pay for imported cars. Later last year, pilot parallel auto import programs were introduced to the three new FTZs in Tianjin as well as Fujian and Guangdong provinces. But sales did not meet expectations due to limited choices of foreign cars, competition with automakers and their authorized dealers, and poor after-sales services from Chinese auto dealers. In a Xinhua News Agency report last week, Tianjin imported 79,000 vehicles through parallel channels in 2015, accounting for 74 percent of total parallel auto imports in China that year. Jia said he predicts that sales of parallel auto imports will continue to grow. The city's long history of selling parallel imported cars, coupled with its tariff-free zone, are the main reasons why Tianjin is buffered from lags in auto sales compared to other FTZs, he added. Economic Daily's website reported on Thursday that a national policy, in which dealers of imported cars for sale in the Chinese market are required to pay all taxes at ports, may change in March. Tianjin is the only FTZ that does not force dealers of imported vehicles to immediately pay taxes, ce.cn said. Jia said he believes the tariff-free policy will positively affect not only parallel auto import businesses, but the entire import auto market because it will reduce dealers' financial burdens. Last year, parallel imports of cars accounted for about one-tenth of the country's total vehicle imports. According to data by Sinomach Automobile Co Ltd and China Automobile Trading Co Ltd, China imported 1.06 million vehicles in 2015, a 25-percent decline year-on-year, the first slump after 10 consecutive years of growth. duxiaoying1@chinadaily.com.cn Office of E Rent Treasure in Hangzhou, Zhejiang province, is locked in December. LONG WEI/CHINA DAILY Beijing police have busted a major fraud ring accused of using E Rent Treasure, an online financial platform, to illegally collect up to 50 billion yuan ($7.6 billion) in funds, harming 900,000 investors across 31 provinces and regions, according to the Beijing Public Security Bureau. Ding Ning, former chairman of Yucheng International Group, the owner of E Rent Treasure, has been arrested by a Beijing prosecuting department on suspicion of fund-raising fraud, illegally acquiring funds and possessing firearms. Twenty other senior managers in the company have also been arrested by national prosecuting departments on suspicion of illegally acquiring funds from investors. In February 2014, Yucheng International Group purchased a Beijing network and technology company. In July, Yucheng changed the company's name to E Rent Treasure, operating it as an online financial company. Fake information Yucheng was registered abroad and consisted of eight business operation centers across the country, including in Beijing, Shanghai and Anhui province, that allegedly used fake information and fabricated financing and leasing projects, according to the Beijing Public Security Bureau. The group allegedly lured members of the public to invest money, promising returns of 9 percent to 14 percent, the bureau said. Between July 2014 and December last year, Yucheng illegally acquired as much as 50 billion yuan from 900,000 victims, according to Beijing police. "We are working closely with the China Banking Regulatory Commission and the People's Bank of China to speed up the collection of evidence, confiscating and identifying the illegal assets. We will try our best to recover lost funds for the victims," said a senior police officer from the Beijing Public Security Bureau who declined to reveal his name. He said investors can report information on the Ministry of Public Security's website. Many young Chinese are expressing interest in the annual two sessions of the country's top legislature and political advisory body, set to open this week. "Talent development in large cities such as Shanghai should be encouraged. Restrictive regulations related to home purchases and the household registration system should be lifted." Wan Lengyan, saleswoman in Shanghai "Annual leave is not enough for people like me who need to visit parents. Policymakers should consider extending the leave." Wang Liping, seafood company employee in Dalian, Liaoning province "Education reform is my biggest concern. I really hope students in China face less pressure and have more fun in school." Zhang Shan, teacher in Shijiazhuang, Hebei province "I'm most concerned about the economic slowdown and new economic growth engines for small cities." Ma Ji, real estate company employee in Chongqing China's top students have increasingly been applying for niche liberal arts colleges instead of Ivy League schools as they have become more aware of their interests and needs. Among them is 17-year-old He Qixiao, who studied at Chongqing Foreign Language School. In early February he received a full four-year scholarship from New York University Abu Dhabi worth more than $300,000. When local media reported his success story, the university in the Middle East gained a level of name recognition it did not have before among Chinese. Established in 2010, NYUAD is a liberal arts and research university known for its low enrollment rate, generous scholarship programs, global study resources and diversified culture. Last year it received more than 10,000 applications for the class of 2019, but just 360 students were admitted, giving it an admission rate below 4 percent, lower than that of Harvard University. He, a straight-A student since primary school, picked the school himself. "Compared with other top US schools, NYUAD is the best fit for me," he told China Daily. What attracted him most was the school's rich overseas exchange program, diversified student body and exposure to Arab culture. "The candidate weekend on campus was a most unforgettable life experience," He said. "The food there is strange but in a good way. And it was really a challenge to remember the names of my future classmates." Anna Dechert, director of admissions at NYUAD, told China Daily via e-mail that Chinese mainland students formed the largest group following those from the United Arab Emirates and United States. "Since our first class started in 2010, we have had students from China in each class, and our Chinese applicant pool has consistently been one of our largest," she said. Chinese applicants come from various backgrounds. The university seeks students "who are fluent in English, have excellent performance in a rigorous high school curriculum and through extracurricular activities have had an impact on their school or community beyond their academic achievement", Dechert said. In addition to his excellence in academics, He is active in extracurricular programs such as music and Chinese traditional culture, according to his teacher Wang Xijian. Ran Wei, general manager of International Education Consultancy at New Channel International Education Group, said Chinese students have become more "mature and rational" when selecting foreign schools. "Students' interests, needs and personalities matter most," he said. Two years ago, Chinese media covered the story of a student from Chongqing who was offered a place at Deep Springs College in central California, known for its low enrollment rate. Another example, Ran said, is a girl from Beijing who scored well in her SATs and decided to study agriculture in the US. "For her, the school's ranking in agriculture study was the most important thing." Deng Rui contributed to this story. Students practice Chinese calligraphy under the guidance of a teacher at Peking University's Yenching Academy in Beijing. Provided to China Daily A recently launched graduate program at one of China's leading research universities in Beijing is looking to give its scholars a deeper and fuller understanding of the country. Yenching Academy at Peking University is open to talent from around the world, and is working to ensure that its students explore every aspect of China, said John Holden, its associate dean. The program does not constrain students to a certain path of study, he said. Its offering is like a menu for students to select from according to their own needs. In this way, Holden said, the program prepares students with context for a deep understanding of China so that they can grasp what is the right question to ask and finally come out of the program "with a comprehensive picture" of the country. The Yenching program, as it is known, differs from a PhD program that requires students to specialize. It is also unlike training courses that only focus on specific techniques, he said. "We will open up a universe of knowledge about China to allow people to explore and to define their own course of study," Holden said. "That is very important because you can't learn everything. You should focus on the theme that is the most meaningful to you." The first cohort of 96 Yenching scholars, all supported with full scholarships, enrolled in September. They came from 55 universities in China and around the world. Alex Palmer from the United States said he was impressed by the opportunities on offer, both in terms of the people he had met and the academic opportunities put forward. All these gave him a new understanding of China. Lu Yuan, a college student majoring in civil engineering at Beijing Jiaotong University, is worried about his employment prospects this summer. "Location is my priority when looking for jobs," he said. "Considering my major, I would like to work for a State-owned company in Beijing." Lu expects to be paid an annual salary of 120,000 yuan ($18,370) in his first job, but is likely to struggle as a record 7.7 million young people will leave higher education this summer amid a slowing economy. Xu Ying, a senior official in the branding department of a State-owned enterprise in Beijing, said Lu's salary expectations were too high. "Except for skilled jobs, most companies don't expect that graduates can use what they learned from their studies instantly at work," she said. "Passion and attitude are more valued than knowledge." Xu said many graduates find it difficult to adjust to the world of work, given the gap between their expectations and reality. Fan Tianyi, 25, is a professional recruiter in Shanghai who left college two years ago. He said Chinese universities do not pay enough attention to student internships, resulting in a lack of knowledge among graduates when planning careers. "Most colleges also fail to give enough guidance to students seeking employment and help them lower their expectations," Fan said. He gave the example of Shaanxi province, where the financial services, logistics and e-commerce sectors are welcoming new recruits. Graduates majoring in software development are also popular in the province's capital, Xi'an, because of its e-commerce boom, Fan said, whereas there are too many sales and marketing graduates. Lin Boqiang, a professor at Xiamen University, said 90 percent of his doctoral students became instructors at universities. "The top talents never face employment problems. The question is whether China needs so many graduates with higher education or not," he said. "Isn't it a waste of money and resources to cultivate a student with a master's degree to count money at a bank?" Chinese courts acquitted 1,039 defendants last year, China's top court announced on Monday in a report on judicial reform. "It's an effective way to protect human rights," said Li Shaoping, vice president of the Supreme People's Court. The correction of wrongful verdicts also has been accelerated in the past few years, Li said, adding that unjust verdicts in 23 high-profile cases were corrected from 2013 to 2015. For example, Hugjilitu, a native of Inner Mongolia, who was executed in 1996 for rape and murder, was announced innocent at the end of 2014. Li said the top court will continue to gain experience in correcting cases involving improper verdicts and avoid judicial mistakes by promoting case hearing systems and procedures. Wang Fuchun has been a "thief" on trains since the late 1970s. Wang is no pickpocket - long employed by the state to photograph life on the train network, he characterizes himself as stealing the images because he believes acting without his subjects' permission is the only way to capture reality. With his camera generally covered by a coat, Wang has prowled through packed carriages snapping what he sees as his "prey" on a journey that has allowed him to trace China's modernization and great cultural change. Now, however, he is ditching the covert tactics and has launched a project to identify the people in his old photographs. Wang, 73, wants to find out what has become of the unknowing stars of his albums. "There's a mobile community on the train, and it has included every aspect of society; the good, the evil, the beautiful and the ugly," he says. While Wang yearns to get to know the subjects, he believes the images are powerful in themselves as historical snapshots. A naked boy standed on a passenger seat peeing into a tin can in 1992. [Photo/Xinhua] In a photo taken in 1992, a naked boy stands on a passenger seat peeing into a tin can. "Little boys often used to strip off before trains had air conditioners installed," Wang explains. His photos also show lots of topless men in the stuffy compartments. A man injures 10 students with a knife at the gate of Yangfan Primary School in Haikou, capital of South China's island province of Hainan, on Feb 29, 2016. [Photo/Weibo] A man injured 10 students with a knife at a primary school in Haikou, capital of South China's island province of Hainan, and killed himself after the attack, local news portal hinews.cn reported. The man attacked the students as they were leaving for home Monday lunchtime at the gate of Yangfan Primary School, witnesses said. One said the man mainly attacked students' heads before escaping. Police cordoned off the site where blood and items belonging to students, such as shoes, were seen on the ground, hinews.cn reported. Police said six boys and four girls were injured, including two in critical condition, and they were sent to nearby hospitals. The man, Li Sijun, 45, was found dead in a nearby street, and police said he killed himself. Police have not released further information on the attack. A medical worker at the No 187 Hospital in the city said one boy and one girl had been sent to the hospital, and that the girl was in a critical condition. Three injured students were sent to the Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University where they received medical treatment, hinews.cn reported. The mother of an injured student said the wound on her child's head was very deep and doctors had told her to keep the girl in hospital for further examination. Another mother said she knew her son was injured only when she looked for him at school after he did not return home at noon. "I thought my son was safe at school. I never thought such a thing could happen," she said. Vice-President Li Yuanchao has said China is ready to work with Singapore to "boost political mutual trust, promote practical cooperation and expand cultural exchanges". Li made the remarks when meeting with the visiting Singaporean Foreign Minister Vivian Balakrishnan on Monday in Beijing. China and Singapore are friends and neighbors who have worked on a pathway for cooperation that promotes mutual learning and benefits, Li said. Li noted the state visit paid by President Xi Jinping to Singapore last year and that the two countries established a partnership of all-round cooperation keeping with the times. This has charted the course for the development of the relationship in the next stage, Li said. The Singaporean minister said the two-way cooperation has harvested results and Singapore attaches great importance to its relationship with China, and will spare no effort in advancing bilateral cooperation. President Xi receives credentials of ten ambassadors (Xinhua) Updated: 2016-02-29 22:18 BEIJING -- Chinese President Xi Jinping received the credentials of ten new ambassadors to China on Monday at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing. The ambassadors are Jan Adams from Australia, Paul Andrew Gomez from the Bahamas, Bedrich Kopecky from the Czech Republic, Vijay Gokhale from India, Vandy Bouthasavong from Laos, Maris Selga from Latvia, John Aquilina from Malta, Aureliu Ciocoi from Moldova, Ronald Keller from the Netherlands and Bendito dos Santos Freitas from Timor-Leste. Xi welcomed the ambassadors to their posts and asked them to convey his greetings to the leaders and people of their countries. Hailing the good relationships between China and the countries, Xi said China attaches great importance to the ties, will continue to consolidate traditional friendships, expand reciprocal cooperation and people-to-people exchanges, and enhance coordination in multilateral organizations with the countries. The Chinese government will support the ambassadors' work, Xi said, calling on them to make contributions to the development of bilateral ties and their cooperation in multiple areas. The ambassadors conveyed greetings from their state leaders to Xi and the Chinese people, and hailed China's development achievements as well as its important role in international affairs. The ambassadors vowed to contribute to stronger ties between their countries and China during their tenures. On the same day, Xi also met with Rashid Alimov, new secretary-general of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. Beijing CPC committee vows punishment for Ren Zhiqiang (Xinhua) Updated: 2016-03-01 01:32 BEIJING -- A Beijing district committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) pledged severe intraparty penalties for Ren Zhiqiang, a celebrity blogger and property developer whose accounts were closed for allegedly spreading illegal information. The Xicheng district committee of the CPC on Monday issued a circular saying Ren, "as a CPC member, has been releasing illegal information and making inappropriate comments online, resulting in a vile influence and damage to the party image." The committee, where Ren's CPC membership is registered and managed, said it would punish him strictly according to party rules. The Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC), China's top Internet regulator, on Sunday ordered closure of Ren's microblog accounts, accusing him of spreading illegal information. The administration urged celebrity microbloggers and bloggers with huge followings to use their influence correctly, obey the law, accept their due social responsibilities and promote "positive energy." It vowed intensified monitoring and managing of online information and content, saying that it would not allow users of the closed accounts to register again under other names. A court in northeastern China has upheld a life sentence imposed on a former aide to disgraced Politburo member Bo Xilai, it was announced on Monday. Wu Wenkang, a key assistant to imprisoned former senior official Bo, had been sentenced to life in prison for taking bribes of 20 million yuan ($3 million). Wu, 57, a native of Liaoning province, was director-general of the administration office of the Communist Party Committee in Chongqing before he was held on corruption charges in October 2012. On Monday, the full text of Wu's verdict was made public by the High People's Court in Jilin province, where he appealed, making the case the latest incident in the sweeping nationwide anti-corruption drive. The document said Wu was sentenced to life imprisonment in November 2014 for using his public positions in Liaoning province and Chongqing to make money illegally from local land development, from granting projects to others and helping others to obtain bank loans from 1999 to 2012. The Intermediate People's Court in Changchun, Jilin, found him guilty of the corruption charges and sentenced him to life in prison. The High People's Court in Jilin, a higher level court, upheld the verdict in March last year. It was not made public until Monday. Wu's lawyer, Ding Fengli, applied to the appeal court for a lenient sentence. Ding argued that Wu had turned himself in to the central government working group when it investigated an incident in which Wang Lijun, the police chief in Chongqing, sought asylum at the United States consulate in Chengdu and in which Bo, the top official in the city, was found to be involved in a series of crimes. Wu's defense was rejected by the court, which found that the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection had filed a case against him before he confessed. Bo was the top official in Liaoning province and later in Chongqing from 1999 to 2012. Contact the writer with zhang_yi@chinadaily.com.cn Chinese courts are to step up efforts to protect judicial officers after a Beijing judge was shot dead near her home last week. Ma Caiyun, 38, a judge at Changping District People's Court, was shot in the face and stomach at about 9:30 pm on Friday in the capital's Huilongguan community. She was confirmed dead shortly afterward at a hospital. Ma's husband, Li Fusheng, a police officer at the same court, was injured in the shooting, according to a statement issued by Beijing police. Two suspects shot themselves dead after they were cornered by police in a car in Yanqing district early on Saturday, the statement said. One of the suspects, surnamed Li, was dissatisfied with property allocation in a divorce case verdict given by Ma, the statement said, adding that the investigation was continuing. News of the judge's death went viral among judicial officials over the weekend. A judge who specializes in civil disputes at a court in Fujian province said, "I will now pay great attention to protecting my own privacy and that of my family." Sun Jungong, spokesman for the Supreme Peoples Court the top court said on Monday, "We were shocked after hearing of Ma's death and strongly condemn such violent attacks on judges. "We'll deal strictly with cases of personal or property damage involving judicial officials or their family members, and also introduce more effective protection for judges," Sun said. Hu Shihao, director of the top court's judicial reform office, said at a news conference on Monday that a guideline on protecting judicial officers was expected to be issued this year. Details of the protective measures would be disclosed promptly, Hu said. "Well improve the system for handling false reports or false accusations involving judges, and blame those who intentionally make false allegations," Hu said. "We will punish people who threaten, insult, stalk or disturb judges inside or outside of courtrooms, in line with the law." Action that could result in harm to judges, including releasing their phone numbers and home addresses, should be prevented, while people who seriously disrupt case hearings would be heavily punished, he said. Ma, who had handled nearly 400 cases annually since 2007, has been awarded the honor of "model judge". In a related development, Xinhua News Agency reported on Monday that China will release a regulation on protecting judges and prosecutors, according to the Commission for Political and Legal Affairs of the Communist Party of China Central Committee. Those who seek revenge through slander, coercion or false testimony will be subject to punishments and charges. caoyin@chinadaily.com.cn Premier Li Keqiang meets with US Treasury Secretary Jacob Lew in Beijing on Monday. FENGYONGBIN/ CHINA DAILY President Xi Jinping will meet with US President Barack Obama soon, it was disclosed on Monday. Premier Li Keqiang made the announcement after he received Jacob Lew, special representative of the United States president and the US treasury secretary, in Beijing. The meeting between the two presidents would help to improve relations between the two countries, Li said. An official announcement about the meeting has yet to be released by the Chinese Foreign Ministry. Lew was in Beijing after attending the G20 meeting of finance ministers and central bank governors in Shanghai late last week. At this meeting, finance officials from the member nations pledged efforts to prevent competitive devaluation of currencies and to facilitate global economic growth. The meeting between Xi and Obama will take place after the National People's Congress holds its annual session in Beijing, beginning on Saturday, to decide on the nation's development this year and, more important, its social and economic program for the next five years. The White House website said the fourth and final Nuclear Security Summit will be held on March 31 and April 1 in Washington, DC. When meeting with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi last week, Obama said he hoped Xi would attend the summit. Li, when meeting with Lew, said good Sino-US relations were very important for both countries, and China placed great emphasis on its economic and trade cooperation with the US, which Li described as an "accelerator" for the overall bilateral ties. Li said it was good to see that during the G20 meeting of finance ministers and central bank governors that major economies would enhance coordination on macro policies. Li also said the meeting went smoothly and had sent a stable message to international society. Wang Yusheng, a researcher at a government think tank in Beijing, said the Chinese and US leaders last met at the Paris Climate Summit in December. Their frequent meetings would be "most helpful" for bilateral ties, said Wang, executive director of the Strategy Research Center at the China International Studies Research Fund. "Every time a subtle situation seems to emerge in the bilateral relations, a face-to-face meeting between leaders of the two nations will help to sort things out," Wang said, adding that "there are still some uncomfortable areas in Sino-US ties". After Li's meeting with Lew, Zhu Guangyao, vice-minister of finance who also attended the meeting, said China was glad to see many of its policy proposals were included in the G20 meeting's final document. Xu Hongcai, a researcher of the China Center for International Economic Exchanges, another government think tank, praised the Shanghai meeting for reaching a consensus among G20 finance officials to seek a balanced and sustainable way to boost the global economy. Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi (right) meets with visiting OAS secretary-general Luis Almagro in Beijing on Feb 29, 2016. [Photo/Xinhua] BEIJING -- Chinese State Councilor Yang Jiechi said on Monday that China will further enhance ties with the Organization of American States (OAS). Yang spoke with visiting OAS secretary-general Luis Almagro in Beijing about how bilateral cooperation can benefit relations between China and the American states, especially Latin American and Caribbean countries. He said the China-OAS cooperation had seen some great results in recent years. Almagro said the OAS attaches great importance to its ties with China and is willing to expand exchanges and cooperation with China. The OAS will firmly adhere to the one-China principle, he said. Invited by the Chinese Foreign Ministry, Almagro is paying an official visit to China from Feb 28 to March 2. CHENGDU -- A pair of giant pandas will leave China for their new home in the Republic of Korea (ROK) on Thursday on a 15-year lease. Yuan Xin and Hua Ni will take a Korean Air flight from southwestern city of Chengdu to the ROK on Thursday morning, China Conservation and Research Center for the Giant Panda (CCRCGP) told Xinhua Monday. Their new home will be a 3,300-square-meter house at Everland, ROK's largest theme park, about 40 kilometers (25 miles) from Seoul, CCRCGP said. The pair's lease was put on the agenda after Chinese President Xi Jinping's visit to ROK in 2014, during which the two countries pledged cooperation in panda research, and the loan was agreed during Premier Li Keqiang's visit last year. The center describes Yuan Xin, a 3-year-old male, as being lively and outgoing, and 2-year-old Hua Ni as a "good girl" with a slightly introverted and docile disposition. BEIJING -- Chinese police have launched a nationwide campaign against gun and explosives crime ahead of the annual parliamentary session later this week. In a video conference on Monday, the Ministry of Public Security said this year's campaign will target those who sell and buy guns and explosives online or participate in production. Websites and services providers involved will be held responsible. The ministry will confiscate any guns and explosives found to be held by individuals. In China it is illegal for ordinary residents to own firearms or explosives. Gun and explosives crimes in 2015 fell by 42.7 percent and 5.6 percent respectively. Province has issued a series of supportive policies in past two years Jilin province, a heavy industrial base in Northeast China, regards the fast growth of its service sector in the past two years as an encouraging sign of its economic restructuring. "A prosperous service industry is characteristic of a modern economy and an important symbol of the economy's modernization, internationalization and healthiness," said Bayinchaolu, Party chief of Jilin, explaining why the province attaches such importance to the development of the service sector. Shoppers visit a festively decorated shopping mall in Jilin province during Spring Festival. The Northeast China province saw a large increase in tourist visits and personal spending during the holiday. Photos provided to China Daily Changbai Mountain and the border regions with Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea are popular tourist attractions in Jilin thanks to their picturesque scenery and ethnic cultures. Left: Frozen rivers and snow-covered willows are a typical winter view in Jilin, known for its efforts to preserve the natural environment. Right: Hoarfrost is a popular winter view in the province. "Increasing the service sector's proportion in Jilin's economy and improving the quality of the service industry are both necessary for economic restructuring, and an inevitable trend of Jilin's economic development," he said. "In the future, the service industry's size should be larger than the secondary industry, as well as agriculture, in Jilin." Statistics from the Jilin government show that the added value of the province's service industry last year hit 534 billion yuan ($82 billion), up 8.3 percent year-on-year. The growth rate is 2.7 percentage points higher than that of the secondary industry, and 1.8 percentage points faster than that of the province's gross domestic product. It is the first time that Jilin's service sector has grown faster than its industries for two consecutive years. The service industry contributed 37.4 percent of Jilin's GDP last year, 1.2 percentage points higher than 2014, and the service sector's contribution ratio to Jilin's economic growth reached 45.7 percent, 8.1 percentage points higher than in 2014, and 15.2 percentage points higher than in 2010. Jilin started boosting the development of its service sector in 2011, by expediting its partnerships with advanced manufacturing industries and modern agriculture. The provincial government actively supports the development of manufacture-related, life-related and village-related service industries, and brand strategy and the formation of a host of industry development platforms for Jilin's service sector. The government issued a series of supportive policies to promote the development of software programming, service outsourcing, cultural industry, tourism, household service, pension service and real estate industries. Last year, Jilin hosted 141 million tourists, up 16.39 percent year-on-year, and its tourism revenue increased by 25.36 percent from 2014, hitting 232 billion yuan. By the end of last year, Jilin's financial industrial asset size was 3.23 trillion yuan, an increase of about 20 percent every year since 2011. Tourism and the financial industry have become two main engines for Jilin's economy. The Jilin government became a strategic partner with Alibaba Group, China's largest e-commerce company, in early 2014. Last year, the total of e-commerce transactions in Jilin surpassed 260 billion yuan, a steep rise of 40 percent from a year earlier. All the cities in Jilin have made service sector development a key in restructuring their economies. The provincial capital of Changchun parallels the service sector with industries as dual engines of its economy. Jilin city, the second-largest city economy in the east of the province that bears the same name, has made boosting the development of the service sector a key work task for county and district governments, which serves as an important reference to evaluate local civil servants' performance. The city governments in Yanbian, Tonghua and Liaoyuan also drafted directives on a service industry development plan and detailed implementation rules. The city mayor, district and county heads in Songyuan signed liability statements, which clearly stipulated their responsibilities in boosting the development of the local service sector. Jilin makes the development of its financial industry a priority as it has been difficult and expensive for enterprises or individual businesspeople to obtain loans. The government has improved the province's financial policy environment and introduced Shengjing Bank, Huaxia Bank, Export-Import Bank of China, Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corporation and some other financial institutes. Local rural banks, credit cooperatives, small loan companies and financing guarantee companies have sprung up in large numbers. In the past five years, 79 financial institutes in Jilin have set up special departments for small enterprises, employing more than 5,400 people, and more than 500 financial products have been created for small and micro businesses. Changbai Mountain and border regions with Russia and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea are popular tourist attractions in Jilin for their picturesque scenery and ethnic cultures. Among 11 land port cities along the border, 10 have developed driving, horse riding and Northeast Asia tour programs with partners from the DPRK. Jilin is also actively developing its senior citizen nursing industry. Statistics from the provincial government show that for every 1,000 people aged 60 or above, Jilin had 32 beds in nursing homes last year, up 8.9 percent year-on-year. Jilin's offshore service outsourcing turnover was $78.44 million last year, increasing 18.8 percent from 2014. In the past five years, Jilin has carried out 100 projects, each of which has investment of more than 100 million yuan, in logistics, information service, financial service, tourism and cultural innovation. The huge amount of investment coming from out of the province is helping Jilin's service industry realize a big leap forward in development. Jilin now has 32 modern service industry zones, which accommodate more than 3,000 enterprises and provide over 30,000 jobs. Changchun has the Northeast Asia cultural innovation technology park, Jilin Normal University technology innovation and cultural industry park, software and cartoon service outsourcing industrial park and two financial business zones. Yanbian has an IT industrial park that mainly outsources software services to Japan and the Republic of Korea, Tumen logistics land port, and Hunchun international logistics development zone. Baishan city is famous for its Changbai Mountain international tourism, leisure and holiday resort area. Gongzhuling city's strength in the service industry is in logistics at the Daling logistics industrial park. On Feb 14, the first workday after Spring Festival, the Jilin provincial government held a conference on further promoting the development of the service sector. Bayinchaolu said in the meeting that the government should drive the development of the service industry into the "fast lane", and make efforts to cultivate the sector as a robust new engine for Jilin's economic growth in the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20) period. "Compared with developed regions, Jilin's service sector is still small in size, unbalanced in structure and regional distribution, lower in level and weaker in competence," Bayinchaolu said. According to the provincial government plan, in the next five years, the main objective is to expedite the development of the service industry, increase its share in the economy, and raise its level. "Jilin should choose the proper path according to its practical conditions, and cannot simply copy the model of developed regions," he said. "Jilin's service industry should be able to explore the province's potential, expand its development space, built on its current strength, and attach more importance to innovation and serving people's livelihoods." He said China's Belt and Road Initiative offers Jilin opportunities to merge into the global service industry system through cooperating with Northeast Asian countries. Jiang Chaoliang, Jilin provincial governor, urged governments at all levels in the province to issue more supportive policies, improve government services and create a favorable environment, especially in the fields of tax, finance and talent cultivation, for the development of the service sector. Contact the writers through liyang@chinadaily.com.cn. Spring Festival blooms Jilin province hosted 8.9 million tourists during the Spring Festival holiday in the second week of February, up 15.42 percent year-on-year, of whom 42.7 percent were short-distance travelers. The tourism revenue for the week hit 7.57 billion yuan ($1.16 billion), up 2 percent year-on-year. Personal spending averaged 851 yuan, up 6.08 percent year-on-year. Ice and snow sculptures, hot springs and hoarfrost scenery were the most popular attractions, especially for tourists from the south of China. More than 20,000 people climbed Changbai Mountain and about 40,000 tourists visited Songhua Lake, an increase of 200 percent year-on-year. The eight largest ski resorts saw a 26 percent rise in travelers compared with last year. The number of travelers to hot springs in Dunhua, Yanbian and Jilin city reached the upper limit of the resorts' handling capacity. Tourists were also keen to participate in folk culture activities in the villages, experiencing local people's lifestyles, customs and food. China Daily (China Daily 02/25/2016 page10) Japan is making increasing efforts to serve the growing number of Chinese tourists visiting Japan. All FamilyMart stores in Japan began accepting Chinese UnionPay payment cards on Feb 2, which means all the three major chain convenience stores in Japan, namely Lawson, 7-Eleven and FamilyMart, accept UnionPay cards and allow for easy PIN-free payment. Nearly 5 million Chinese tourists visited Japan in 2015, twice that of the year before. And Chinese tourists outstrip travelers from other countries in terms of expenditure, with each one spending $2,446 on average. Switzerland began voting in a referendum on Sunday on whether foreign criminals should be automatically deported even for minor offenses, after a far-right push to tighten the rules. Polling comes at a time when many European countries are hardening their attitudes to migrants after more than a million arrived on the continent last year. More than half of Swiss voters backed strengthening rules to automatically expel foreign nationals convicted of violent or sexual crimes in a referendum on the same topic six years ago. China's Global Newspaper Sorry, the page you requested was not found. Please check the URL for proper spelling and capitalization. If you're having trouble locating a destination on Chinadaily.com.cn, try visiting the Chinadaily home page US President Barack Obama hammered home his belief on Tuesday that Republican White House hopeful Donald Trump would not be elected, knocking his reality show past and penchant for drawing media attention. Obama did not limit his criticism to the billionaire real estate tycoon, hitting out at "troubling" statements from the entire GOP field of candidates seeking to replace him. But he reserved his toughest remarks for Trump, offering a scathing assessment of why he thinks people in the US will not elect him. "I continue to believe that Mr Trump will not be president. And the reason is because I have a lot of faith in the American people. And I think they recognize that being president is a serious job," he said. "It's not hosting a talk show or a reality show. It's not promotion. It's not marketing. It's hard," he said. "It's not a matter of pandering and doing whatever will get you in the news on a given day. And sometimes it requires you making hard decisions, even when people don't like it," Obama continued. The 69-year-old Trump has long been ahead in the Republican race for the White House nomination, according to opinion polls. 'A great compliment' He said Obama's prediction "actually is a great compliment". Trump outlined his complaints about Obama's presidency, saying: "You look at our budgets, you look at our spending, we can't beat Islamic State. Obamacare is terrible. ... Our borders are like Swiss cheese." He lost the Iowa caucuses to Senator Ted Cruz early this month, but roared to victory in the New Hampshire primary last week. He holds a commanding 16-point lead over Cruz in South Carolina, according to a CNN poll. Obama, whose successor will be chosen on Nov 8, insisted that Trump was not alone in expressing unsettling proposals on the Republican campaign trail. "He may up the ante in anti-Muslim sentiment, but if you look at what the other Republican candidates have said, that's pretty troubling, too," he said. AFP - AP [Photo by Zhang Jianhui/China Daily] Young Chinese have very different views on career security, but their impulsive decisions to terminate employment point to growing affluence and the unwillingness to acclimate. What's a better strategy? To follow your heart and quit a job that's not giving you satisfaction or to stick to it until you find the next, hopefully better, job? There is a noticeable chasm between China's generations when it comes to such choices. Conventional wisdom has it that those born in the 1970s tend to value job security and would not voluntarily leave their current employers unless they have secured their next position. Those born in the 1990s, on the other hand, would simply get up and do it in a dramatic way, just like in movies"I can't take it any more!" This has become so commonplace that some employers are refusing to take "I quit" as an acceptable letter of resignation. They demand something at least 500 words so they'll know why people are leaving. That is according to a recent post online that presumably recounts a young woman's decision to "fire" her boss and a funny dialogue that ensued between the two parties. As usual, I want to qualify it by saying that this particular story has not been vetted for veracity, but similar stories abound. True or not, it was not an isolated incident, but a general phenomenon worthy of analysis. We Chinese like to assign numerical names to generations, among others. What is known as millennials in English-speaking countries is divided into "post-1980" and "post-1990" in China. The terms are nearly impossible to translate because they refer to those born in the 1980s and '90s respectively. Of course, it's simplistic to lump such a big chunk of populace together. For one thing, people have repeatedly pointed out that "post-1985" have more in common with "post-1990" than with their slightly older peers. That makes the subject of this article the 20-somethings in Western parlance. The use of age group in such discussions has not vanished in the Chinese context; it is just being nudged to the sideline by the years of birth, which can be a permanent label and need not change over the years. China's 20-somethings are prominent for (a) being single children, (b) being college educated and (c) having grown up with Internet and mobile gadgets. They have just entered the workforce en masse. And surprising to some, they have displayed a penchant for job hopping. The young woman in the latest story is said to have changed three jobs in a year. She cited some of the reasons for quitting. Highest on the list is her employer's policy not to take deliveries of employees' personal orders. That means she has to go down 21 floorsthree times a day on averageto meet the couriers. Her supervisor countered that, if the time she used in online ordering is factored in, that would add up to at least one hour a day for this personal affair alone. Stricter employers would ban such activities wholesale, he said. Another reason she gave was the pep-talk meetings, during which she had to peep at her cellphone for distraction. She could not bear the lengthy platitudes about corporate values and culture. Her supervisor argued that this form of boredom comes with every job. I may not have a vantage point for observation, but the young men and women I have known or worked with do not seem to share too much with the above stories. The 2016 China (Qingdao) World Imports Fair (QDIF) will open at Qingdao Huaxiu International Convention and Exhibition Center on June 30. The fair, aimed at expanding imports, stimulating consumption and meeting consumer demand, has developed into the largest import commodities fair in North China. Exhibitors from more than 30 countries are expected to attend the fair, with 70 percent of booths having already been reserved. Distributors, e-commerce enterprises and foreign trade enterprises will also gather at the fair to seek cooperation with manufacturers and establish import channels. A procurement conference will be held on July 1, with exhibits on display including cosmetics, foods, household products and jewelry. Meanwhile, Qingdao will host the 2016 Cross-Border E-commerce Conference during the QDIF. E-commerce giants will be invited to share experiences and provide insights into market trends and industrial developments. According to a recent document issued by the central authorities, China will improve its permanent residence permit application procedure for foreigners. In other words, it will be much easier for foreigners to get a Chinese green card in the future. The new policy is of great significance for China, as it will make it easier to attract more oversea investment and talent. According to the document, the qualification criteria for a green card will be more flexible and pragmatic than before. The country will evaluate those applying for permanent residency based on their salaries, taxes and social credit in China. Permanent residency applications from foreign professionals under key government talent programs will be given priority. For high-level professionals and foreigners who have made outstanding contributions to the country, application requirements will be simplified and the waiting time for approval shortened. Excellent overseas students will also be subject to fewer requirements if they want to work in China. The document also clarified that foreigners with permanent residency in China will enjoy equal treatment with Chinese citizens in terms of purchasing property, children's education, obtaining a driving license and other social rights. Police seize a simulated gangster during an emergency drill in Urumqi, Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region, earlier this month. The scenario involved a female audience member at a sports event who was kidnapped by two gangsters with knives. MA YUAN/CHINA DAILY Terrorism is on the rise worldwide, and the situation in China is no exception. When answering questions about terrorism in China on Friday, an anti-terrorism expert with the Ministry of Public Security summarized terrorism's penetration in the country as increasingly severe and the anti-terror situation as very grave. As in other parts of the world, the challenge of fighting terrorism in China is daunting. The Xinjiang Uygur autonomous region where the Uygur ethnic group is concentrated often suffers from terrorist attacks that claim lives and damage property, and pose a serious threat to the country's security and social stability. The East Turkistan Islamic Movement is a terrorist organization that is trying to penetrate into Xinjiang and instigate secessionism there. Given the close relationship between the ETIM and other terrorist groups, China's fight against terrorism in Xinjiang is definitely part of the global anti-terrorism war. China remains firm in its stand against all forms of terrorism. So there is no reason for China's fight against domestic terrorism and extremism to be treated otherwise. It is important the world has a shared definition of terrorism and never resort to a double standard in the war against terrorists and extremists, otherwise the cooperation the world badly needs for a concerted fight against terrorism will be badly compromised. As far as China's efforts in this regard are concerned, it needs the collaboration of its neighbors and other countries. It is impossible for any nation alone to deal with terrorism in today's globalized world, which has been evidenced by the development of joint anti-terrorism efforts worldwide in recent years. Joint efforts to promote inclusive economic development and social progress to shrink the space in which terrorism flourishes and an intensified crackdown on terrorists are important, and in these the shared will of all countries is required. Students eat lunch at a standardized school canteen in Ganzhou district, Zhangye city of Gansu province on Dec 6. This year the local education authority launched a project to standardize canteens at boarding schools in rural areas. More than 10 schools in the district have set up standardized canteens with standardized cookers, tidy kitchens and all the food bought from fixed suppliers with quality and safety contracts. [Photo/Xinhua] STUDENTS AT a high school in Anyang county, Central China's Henan province, are reportedly charged 75 yuan ($11) per semester to pay for the dishwashers working in the school canteen. In response to parents' complaints, the school said the decision was approved by the local educational authorities, so the fee can be collected on behalf of the canteen operator as long as the students are willing to pay. Beijing News questions students' willingness to pay such a fee, and says such fees are not included in the relevant educational regulations. It is not the first time that a school has charged a so-called dishwashing fee. Three years or so ago, some high school students in North China's Hebei province were "voluntarily" required to pay such a fee, yet got their money back after the media reported the story. Their peers in the Henan high school have not been so lucky, apparently. They are "voluntarily" required to pay the school dishwashers, even though there is no such a fee listed in the relevant educational regulations. And it is doubtful that the school collects the fee for the canteen operator; although whether there has been some trading of power for money in the outsourcing of the dining service remains unclear. Sadly, many local schools have been granted the authority to solicit similar fees on behalf of certain bookstores and milk companies that they cooperate with. The bigger irony is that the Henan educational authorities approved the charge on the basis of students' "willingness". Basically monopolized, the school canteen business seems to leave little room for "voluntary payment", especially when it comes to such dishwashing fees and others of this kind. Local educational bureaus are obliged to regulate potential overcharging by schools, not endorse it. In the run-up to a major policy decision in China, editorials by high-ranking authorities in major publications, as well as reports and communiques from official forums and meetings, almost always provide clues to what could happen. You just have to know how to read them. That is easier said than done, at least for foreign media, whose struggle to anticipate China's policy moves has fueled much frustration - and even accusations that Chinese decision-making is secretive and unpredictable. This struggle is perhaps most apparent today in discussions about China's exchange rate. Many investors interpreted last August's unexpected devaluation of the yuan by 1.9 percent against the US dollar - the first decline following years of steady appreciation - as a last ditch effort by the People's Bank of China to stave off an economic crash. They thus assumed that it was just the beginning of a protracted policy-induced depreciation. As a result, a wave of investors shorted the yuan, fueled exchange-rate volatility and drove a sharp increase in capital outflows. But China is not really on the verge of a currency crisis. Given that all of this activity is taking place in the offshore yuan market, which is small in scale and has only limited connections to China's financial system - the result of China's hesitancy about financial-market liberalization and capital-account convertibility - the situation remains controllable. Add to that China's other strengths - annual GDP of more than $10 trillion, a growth rate at least 4 percentage points higher than the global average, over $3 trillion in foreign exchange reserves, a savings rate of 40 percent of GDP, and a massive trade surplus - and an exchange-rate crisis seems highly unlikely. That, however, does not mean there are no risks. On the contrary, China has a strong interest in curbing the volatility and, because of China's centrality to the global economy, so does the rest of the world. The key will be to get markets and policymakers on the same page. So far, China's leadership has been quite forthcoming about its plans, declaring publicly that substantial devaluation of the yuan is not part of its plan. Owing to the enduring strength of China's economic position, their words should be taken at face value. Moreover, Chinese policymakers have shown a clear commitment to minimizing government intervention and promoting a market-oriented approach for setting interest and exchange rates. And the authorities - particularly those at the PBoC - have made significant progress toward this end. A new variety of orchid was named after Chinese President Xi Jinping and his wife at the naming ceremony held in Singapore Botanic Gardens on Saturday. [Photo/Sina Weibo] Last year, Singapore and China commemorated 25 years of diplomatic relations, culminating in the exchange of state visits by Singapore President Tony Tan and Chinese President Xi Jinping. We established an All-Round Cooperative Partnership Progressing with the Times. Singapore and China have had interactions for many centuries. Singapore has always been part of the Maritime Silk Road. The majority of our (Singapore's) citizens have ancestors from China. We enjoy a long-standing, wide-ranging relationship that transcends politics. The landmark visits by Singapore's first prime minister Lee Kuan Yew (1976) and China's former paramount leader Deng Xiaoping (1978) laid a strong foundation for the modern phase of our bilateral relations, prior to the establishment of formal diplomatic ties in 1990. Lee Kuan Yew always believed that a strong China that was positively engaged with Southeast Asia would strongly benefit the region. That was why he suggested we jointly develop the Suzhou Industrial Park in 1994, our first government-to-government project, to promote the exchange of development experiences. In 2007, when China's focus shifted to sustainable urbanization, we embarked on our second government-to-government project - the Sino-Singapore Tianjin Eco-City. We have also launched other "private sector-led, government-supported" projects to respond to different aspects of China's development interests, including the Guangzhou Knowledge City, Sichuan Hi-tech Innovation Park, Nanjing Eco Hi-tech Island and Jilin Food Zone. Last year, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and President Xi launched our third government-to-government, the Chongqing Connectivity Initiative, during President Xi's state visit to Singapore. The CCI supports China's key development strategies and will draw upon the comparative advantages of Singapore and China to prototype policy innovations and enhance connectivity in the areas of finance, aviation, transport and logistics, and info-communication technology. Singapore-China relations have been a pathfinder for China's engagement of the region. We are the first Asian country to conclude a free trade agreement with China. Singapore was China's largest foreign investor from 2013 to 2015, and China is our largest trading partner. To support our growing economic ties, we aim to upgrade the FTA by the end of 2016. Human resource development remains a key pillar of our cooperation. Since the mid-1990s, we have received more than 50,000 Chinese officials and cadres on training and visit programs. These exchanges facilitate mutual learning and the fostering of friendships. Bilateral cooperation has also broadened to include financial services, social governance and environmental protection, among others. Video grab of Hillary Rodham Clinton announcing that she would seek the presidency for a second time, immediately establishing herself as the likely 2016 Democratic nominee, in Washington, DC, USA on April 12, 2015. [Photo/IC] After a thorough analysis of the American primaries so far, it is apparent that Donald Trump may end up as the Republican Candidate while it is almost certain that Hilary Clinton will secure the nomination to become the Democratic candidate for the presidency. Up to a few months ago, most people in general and Americans in particular ridiculed Trump's announcement that he will run for the presidency. Most individuals believed that it was a publicity stunt. However, time proved them wrong. Trump seems to be holding a significant lead over his opponents in almost all polls conducted so far along with winning three primaries. One may wonder about the impact of the outcome of the American election on the world in general and China's future relations with the USA in particular. If the world is fortunate enough, Hilary Clinton or Bernie Sanders will win the election. Their presidency may not deviate noticeably from the current policies of Obama. However, one question could come to mind which would focus on Americans' ability to accept a female president that has some skeletons in her closet and unresolved issues regarding using private emails and her lies about the Benghazi attack along with her husband's philandering ways. As for Sanders, his religious beliefs may lead some to abstain from voting for him. Most nations hope that the USA under the presidency of Hillary Clinton or Sanders will take a more active role in resolving the Palestinian-Israeli conflict. American relations with the Arab countries, Iran, Russia and Cuba, will improve after the rocky relations under the presidency of Obama. Hilary is dead set against cooperating with China. However, considering that China is a vital partner in dealing with major issues such climate-change policy, WMD proliferation and global economic growth, Hilary Clinton will have no other option but to seek equal partnership with China. As for Trump, he succeeded in offending female voters and isolated Muslims with his derogatory and irresponsible statements. He has already infuriated Muslims by indicating that he will ban Muslims from entering the USA. Consequently, his presidency will be full of chaos and turmoil. He said that he will stop Iran's nuclear program by any and all means. He indicated that he will send Mexicans back to their country and erect a massive fence on the border with Mexico. He also intends to bring jobs back from Mexico. His views regarding improving relations with Cuba seem to be influenced by political ambitions according to most political analysts. He changed his mind and aligned his views with those of Obama's. As for his views regarding future relations with China, he intends to bring jobs back to the States. He claimed that he will abolish the made-in-China label and reduce its control of the global market regarding commodities and goods. The relations between China and the USA will be rocky to say the least. He is too confrontational to establish a mutually beneficial collaboration with world leaders, including the government of China. Regardless of who will win the presidency of the USA, American policies need a major alteration in order to achieve peace and friendly relations with other nations. As for American relations with China, Americans must alter their perceptions regarding their fear of the spread of Chinese influence worldwide and see China as an equal partner in dealing with universal issues. We just hope that Americans take a few moments to examine the stands of each candidate and the impact of his or her presidency on the future of the world before casting their votes. Holding an honorary professorship from China, Sava Hassan is a Canadian Egyptian author, poet and educator. He had published three books and wrote numerous articles in various topics in Canada, USA and China. He, also, won several writing awards including four from China. Currently, he is residing in China with his Chinese wife. The opinions expressed here are those of the writer and don't represent views of China Daily website. The Humble Administrator's Garden, a renowned Chinese garden in Suzhou. [Photo provided to China Daily] Suzhou in East China's Jiangsu province, which is famous for its waterways, recently launched a social media campaign to draw more visitors from North America and Europe. The Suzhou Tourism Bureau will run the online campaign through May, giving potential visitors information about the city's tourism resources, delicious foods and traditional crafts on traveltosuzhou.com, Instagram, Facebook and Twitter. People from the United States and Canada can also participate in interactive activities on the bureau's official site. A "lucky" winner will also get a six-day vacation package for two people. Another lottery will be held online for European travelers in April. For international travelers, flying to nearby Shanghai is convenient. One can take the high-speed train to Suzhou from other Chinese cities, too. As a popular tourist destination, the city has been expanding its infrastructure, adding four new hotels in the past few months. Related: The time to save "Parachute kids" the nickname given to Chinese children who are sent to the US for study at probably too young an age have been making a lot of not so good headlines recently. Some observers blame the bad news on the kids' psychological immaturity, their ignorance of local laws and codes of conduct or their ingrained waywardness and disrespect for parents and teachers. Whatever the root cause, members of this group have been behind too many tragedies. As sending young children to the US for school becomes more and more fashionable in China, wealthy parents should think carefully about one question before they rush to follow the fad: Is your child really ready to live in a foreign country and assimilate to a completely unfamiliar culture without proper supervision and hands-on guidance? On Feb 17, three 19-year-old students from China who had been studying in a private school in southern California were sentenced to multiple years in prison after being convicted of kidnapping and assaulting two classmates last March. Yunyao "Helen" Zhai was sentenced to 13 years; Yuhan "Coco" Yang got 10 years; and Xinlei "John" Zhang got six years. Zhai, the ringleader in the case, apologized for her actions in a letter of repentance read to the court. "I hope they (the victims) do not carry the wounds from what I did for the rest of their lives," she wrote. The three were charged with assaulting an 18-year-old classmate by kidnapping her and taking her to a park where she was stripped, beaten, punched, kicked, spat on, burned with cigarettes and forced to eat her own hair during a five-hour assault. Los Angeles County Superior Court Judge Thomas C. Falls said at an earlier hearing in the case that it reminded him of Lord of the Flies, William Golding's 1954 novel about boys stranded on a deserted island without adult supervision who become bloodthirsty and savage enough to kill each other. "This is a wakeup call for the 'parachute kid syndrome,'" said Yuhan Yang, in a statement read to the court by her attorney. "Parents in China are well-meaning and send their kids thousands of miles away with no supervision and too much freedom. That is a formula for disaster." The case has attracted widespread attention back in China, heightening concerns among parents with children studying abroad. According to the Institute of International Education, more than 23,000 teens from China are currently enrolled in middle and high schools across the US, most hopeful of bettering their chances of getting into an American college. The majority of these "parachute" teens are alone, their parents remaining back in China. In her statement, Zhai said living so far from her parents affected her in many ways. "They sent me to the US for a better life and a fuller education," she said. "Along with that came a lot of freedom, in fact too much freedom. Here, I became lonely and lost. I didn't tell my parents because I didn't want them to worry about me." "I'm sure they suffer loneliness," Rayford Fountain, Yang's attorney, said of parachute kids. "So they bond with other kids in the small Chinese circles with no supervision, no one to turn to for assistance. So these things can get out of control." Xinlei "John" Zhang's father said he deeply regretted sending his son to the US at such an early age. "This was a wrong decision we made several years ago and now it's a tragedy for the whole family," he said, adding that he had spent $400,000 on legal fees and travel back and forth for hearings. "Chinese parents who want to send their young children abroad should learn a lesson from our case," he said. Contact the writer at junechang@chinadailyusa.com. The mobilization of Chinese Americans in response to the manslaughter conviction of a New York City police officer could be a watershed moment for their political standing in the US. Last weekend, tens of thousands of people across the United States protested the guilty verdict returned on Feb 11 by a Brooklyn jury against Peter Liang, a rookie NYPD officer, in the shooting death of Akai Gurley, 28, in November 2014. Liang, now 28, discharged his gun in a darkened stairwell of a Brooklyn housing project, and the ricocheted bullet fatally struck Gurley on a lower floor. Prosecutors successfully argued that Liang was reckless, more concerned about losing his job and showed indifference to Gurley's injury. He didn't attempt to provide CPR, choosing to wait for paramedics to arrive, witnesses testified. But many of the protesters countered that the shooting was an accident and that a rookie officer without CPR experience should not have been sent to patrol a dangerous area. They also allege that Liang was scapegoated because an African-American man once again had died in an incident involving police, and someone had to be held responsible. Many protesters made sure to express condolences to Gurley's family and also mourned his death. Some Chinese Americans, including New York City Councilwoman Margaret Chin, also spoke out in favor of Liang's indictment. Still, the overarching message of the protests seemed to be that the Chinese won't be quiet or taken for granted, even in a case with racial elements. New York gets tense in such incidents, whether they happen here or elsewhere in the country. Another notorious incident involving the death of a black man, Eric Garner, sparked waves of protests around the city. Garner died in July 2014 in a confrontation with police on Staten Island, who had accused him of illegally selling cigarettes. The officer who was filmed with his arm around Garner's neck was not indicted. The city also had seen protests related to other violent incidents involving police and black men, including the deaths of Michael Brown in Ferguson, Missouri; Freddie Gray in Baltimore; and Laquan McDonald in Chicago. The Chinese seemed to be sending a message that the community will not abide by judicial expediency. They expect to be treated evenly in US courts, and Liang's case, which many saw as an unintentional killing, was not as clear cut as others in which officers were not even indicted or were acquitted. A petition calling for the withdrawal of Liang's indictment reached almost 124,000 signatures on whitehouse.gov. The Obama administration responded that it "has no role in the decision of a state or local prosecutor to prosecute or not prosecute a case, and so we are not in a position to address the specific request of the petition." "The local entities in this case, the District Attorney's office and the New York Police Department will be the best source for information on this matter." The political influence of Asian Americans is clearly rising. This year for the first time, New York City schoolchildren were given the day off for Lunar New Year, a day also now celebrated on Capitol Hill and in the White House. But suspicion and finger-pointing about China and Chinese persist in the US, over any number of topics such as cybersecurity, the South China Sea, the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank, the trade imbalance and the value of the Chinese currency. Such issues come up frequently in the 2016 presidential campaign, and China invariably is on the wrong end of the commentary. There probably always will be wariness between the two countries as long as they have such different political systems, but the cultural, economic and educational exchanges between the US and China are still expanding. China sends more college students to American universities than any other country. Chinese companies also invest heavily in their own subsidiaries in the US and provide Americans with jobs. When there is a disconnect in the political and judicial realms, it is jarring to those vested in the vast exchanges between the two nations. The Liang verdict could serve as a signpost for Chinese Americans, and based on the turnout at the protests last weekend, they expect their voices to be heard. Contact the writer at williamhennelly@chinadailyusa.com As the old saw goes: How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice. Which is exactly what Chinese virtuoso pianist Fang Yuan was doing a few blocks from Carnegie Hall the day before her first solo appearance there on Thursday. How did she feel? "Excited," she said with a laugh. She was originally asked to perform there on Oct 1, China's "Fourth of July", (as a fill in) on a month's notice, but the gig got tangled in the red tape of an artist visa and postponed until tonight. Audiences are in for a treat. Last October, in lieu of coming to the US, Fang celebrated National Day by playing The Yellow River Concerto with the China National Orchestra and the CPA Orchestra. "I thought maybe I could bring the piece in solo piano version to let more people know about it," she said. "A lot of people haven't heard the piece." The Yellow River Concerto - which is scored for full orchestra, chorus and piano soloist - traces its origins back to the eight-movement Yellow River Cantata. Composed by Xian Xinghai in 1939, the cantata collected folk melodies and river images that served as a rallying anthem to bolster morale during the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. Over the years, the musical material went through adaptations to suit each new generation of listeners. In the late 1960s, pianist Chengzong Yin and a group of five composers reconfigured the work into a four-movement piano concerto, with a final movement that is heavy on the historical content. Keeping with the tradition of updating the cultural treasure, Fang has created her own version of the work for solo piano and will perform its world premiere at Carnegie Hall. She has done her version all by ear, based on her intimate familiarity with the work, incorporating various orchestral elements where she feels they are needed. "Not everything, but I think it is important," she said. And she's kept it to the three first movements. "I don't want to put too much about history in my world premiere," she said. "I just want to bring the beauty of the music." She has named it Yellow River Rhapsody and it will be in good company on the Carnegie stage. Fang is starting her recital with a piece by the grandmaster of musical form and wit, Franz Joseph Haydn. His Sonata in C Major, composed in 1794, features a prankish third movement that begins as a perfectly graceful minute that is twice disrupted with a jolting "wrong chord", only to recover and carry on. It's been likened to two dancers tripping over each other's feet, or, as the great pianist Alfred Brendel described it, a dancer who "slips on a banana skin and suddenly finds himself on the ground". "You know I studied in Germany for seven years," said Fang, who lives in Beijing and wants to move back to Berlin, "and I really love the German-Austrian School. " "So Haydn, of course Mozart, Beethoven, but I can't play everything tomorrow. So I choose Haydn," she said, adding that there is something very "humorous and pure" about his work. After that comes Seven Fantasies by Brahms, Fang's "favorite composer". "I feel very close to him," she said. "Not because I went to Germany, it was before I went there. I can understand what he thought, the music has a special integrity and a kindness." Then, after the Yellow River Rhapsody comes Chopin. "You know, all Chinese pianists love Horowitz," she said, "and his recital in Carnegie Hall was all German, Austrian Romantic themed, and Chopin." Fang chose Chopin's Andante spianato et Grand Polonaise Brillante, which he wrote in his early 20s. Spoiler alert: If Fang is called back for an encore, she will play a Chinese piece based on the tonalities of two traditional instruments - the guzheng zither and xiao flute. China Daily was lucky enough to hear a sample. Called back again, she will play Chopin's "black keys" Etude in G-flat Major. If the audience has any brains, they'll keep her there to see what comes after that. Contact the writer at chrisdavis@chinadailyusa.com. When Foreign Minister Wang Yi visited Washington last week, US news media were reporting on Chinese military facilities spotted in some islands and reefs in the South China Sea. The news was leaked by the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). Tensions over the South China Sea have been a hot topic at CSIS events in past years, yet Chinese perspectives are often overlooked or even distorted in the discussions. So when Wang chose to speak at CSIS last Thursday, it came as a surprise to some, but not so much to others. Indeed, it might be the first time for many in the CSIS audience to hear Chinas views on various hot-button issues, such as the South China Sea. A career diplomat, Wang did not shy away from any question, answering all, especially one on the South China Sea, in great detail. According to Wang, there are Chinese defense facilities on those islands and reefs. But he suggests that CSIS also uses its strong intelligence and satellite imaging capability to show the military facilities on islands and reefs of other countries in the region. While China has already stopped its land reclamation there, some other countries, which started land reclamation much earlier than China, are continuing their reclamation activities even today, a fact hardly covered by US news media. The islands and reefs occupied by some of Chinas neighbors are highly militarized with artillery, amphibious tanks, missiles and gun helicopters in addition to airstrips. Surrounded by these islands militarized by neighboring countries, its only natural for China to install necessary defense facilities, according to Wang. As Wang said repeatedly lately, people should pay more attention to the civilian-purpose facilities China has built and will build in the South China Sea to ensure safety and freedom of navigation. Those include plans for meteorological stations, emergency harbors, maritime observation and research facilities and other types of civilian uses that will benefit all nations. Asked whether the arbitration at The Hague sought by the Philippines will hurt Chinas reputation, Wang explained that the truth is exactly the opposite. It is the Philippines which has violated global, regional and bilateral rules and norms. According to Wang, when China signed the United Nations Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) 10 years ago, it made the Article 298 declaration not to accept mandatory arbitration, a declaration that was also made by some 30 signatory nations including Britain, France and Russia. The US, of course, has not yet ratified the UNCLOS even to this day. To stick to the declaration, Wang said China wont accept any mandatory arbitration, whether its in Chinas favor or not. At the same time, bilateral agreements between China and the Philippines stipulate that disputes should be resolved peacefully and through dialogue. Yet the Philippines has rejected any negotiations with China. According to Wang, international practice also requires the Philippines to secure Chinas consent for arbitration before initiating it, yet the Philippines has not done that at all. The Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea signed by the Philippines, China and several other nations would require countries directly involved to solve their disputes through negotiations. Rules also say that a country cannot seek arbitration before exhausting bilateral avenues of discussion. Yet the reality is that negotiations over a dozen issues brought up by the Philippines to The Hague have never started. So we cannot but question the credibility of that country," Wang said, referring to the Philippines. He was puzzled that the Philippines still pursues the case in The Hague knowing its a mission impossible. So we cannot but question maybe they have some other motives," said Wang, who described the Philippines action as political provocation. Thats the only way we can make sense of it," he told the audience. While US media often describe China as a bully, Wang told the audience that last year alone, Philippine military planes flew through Chinas airspace over the islands and reefs in the South China Sea more than 50 times. Is that a big country bullying a small one?" he asked. Maybe they are trying to remind us of something," he said. Unlike the Philippines and some other countries, China did not have airstrips on the islands and reefs in the South China Sea until last year. Though disappointed with the current Philippine leadership, Wang said Chinas door for negotiation was always open. We can start tomorrow," he said. To Wang, China and the Philippines are two neighbors with a strong bond between their peoples and complementary economies. They should engage in mutually beneficial cooperation rather than confrontation. So we advise the Philippines not to go down this cul-de-sac," he said. Contact the writer at chenweihua@chinadailyusa.com. MOGADISHU - At least 30 people were killed and 42 others injured in twin blasts which hit popular restaurants in Baidoa town in the south-central bay region of Somalia, local officials said Monday. Mayor of Bay region Abdirashid Abdullahi told Xinhua by phone that most of the killed are civilians. "The death toll has risen to 30 with 42 others injured, the explosions took place at busy restaurants in the city," Abdullahi said. According to the mayor the first blast was used by car bomb while the second carried out by a suicide bomber, noting the troops carried out operations in the city and arrested the suspects. "We have arrested some people we believe they conducted the attacks. The troops are still launching operations in Baidoa town," the mayor added. Residents said troops are carrying out search operations in the city which was last night deserted for few of more attacks. Al-Shabaab claimed responsibility for the attack. "Somali troops started huge operations this morning arresting many people, some of them were nabbed from their homes, and the movement of the trade in the city is very low, because commercial sites are closed." Baidoa resident Siidow Nor told Xinhua. UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner and Chair of the Tongji University Council Yang Xianjin sign the MoU in UNEP headquarters in Nairobi. [Photo by Hou Liqiang/chinadaily.com.cn] United Nations Environment Program and China's Tongji University extended a 2012 Memorandum of Understanding on Monday in Nairobi, pledging to continue collaboration of the two sides. The updated MoU, signed by UNEP Executive Director Achim Steiner and Chair of the Tongji University Council Yang Xianjin in UNEP headquarter, extends the partnership of the two sides to 2020. The MoU vows to make more efforts to develop UNEP-Tongji Institute of Environment for Sustainable Development (IESD) into a globally recognized institute for environmental and sustainable development education and research, and South-South and triangular cooperation. The Letter of Agreement to establish the UNEP-Tongji Institute of Environment for Sustainable Development was signed by the two sides on May 9, 2002. According to UNEP, more than 300 students from various programs have graduated from the institute, with 70% from outside of China and many from developing countries. The renewed partnership will also strengthen efforts to make the institute a globally recognized center of excellence and think tank for sustainable development. Steiner said: "The IESD represents more than a decade of close collaboration between UNEP and Tongji University and is a center of sustainable development research. Tongji University has a proud tradition of leading academic research in technology, urbanization, energy and transport. Our unique and longstanding partnership is an opportunity to bring these areas of expertise to bear on UNEP's vision of an inclusive green economy and the 2030 Agenda of sustainable development for all." "Research into sustainable development is a priority for Tongji University," said Yang, "Our partnership with UNEP has been long and fruitful and supports these efforts immeasurably. Expanding our partnership is an opportunity to advance sustainable development in China and build on Tongji University's expertise to become a global center for environmental science research." Chinese Ambassador to EU Yang Yanyi (left) signs an agreement with EU officials in Brussels on Monday to facilitate the visa-free move of diplomats on both sides. [Photo by Gao Shuang/China Daily] Beijing and Brussels agreed to offer visa-free entry for Chinese and EU diplomats on Monday, with China saying it paved the way for a broader deal covering other categories. The United Kingdom and Ireland are not included in the agreement. The deal was signed in Brussels. According to the agreement, the holders of a valid diplomatic passport or EU laissez-passer, when travelling to the territory of the other part can be given permission to stay for a maximum period of 90 days in any 180-day period. This is a follow-up agreement after the EU-China summit held last June. Chinese Ambassador to EU Yang Yanyi said at the ceremony on Monday: More frequent personnel exchanges could help consolidate the foundations of closer EU-China relationship. The negotiators of both sides are going to discuss how to lift visa barriers for business, travel and study purposes. Statistics indicated that more than 3.5 million Chinese have travelled to EU last year while the total outbound travels in China in 2015 stands at 120 million. This satellite image shows the Yongshu Jiao of China's Nansha Islands. [Photo/Xinhua] China and Vietnam vowed on Monday to maintain peace at sea and to handle disputes well. The promise came after President Xi Jinping met with the first special envoy sent by Hanoi following a political reshuffle in the ruling Communist Party of Vietnam. Xi, who is also general secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, met with the envoy sent by the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong at the Great Hall of the People. The Vietnamese Party expects to maintain maritime peace and stability and advance the partnership between Hanoi and Beijing, Trong said in a message to Xi delivered by envoy Hoang Binh Quan, head of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee's Commission for External Relations. Trong said the two countries "have many common fundamental interests", adding that a good and stable bilateral relationship is in line with the interests of both nations' people. He also expects to strengthen Vietnamese cooperation with China in economic and other fields. Trong was re-elected to his position at the 12th CPV National Congress, which ended on Jan 28. The congress also appointed a new 19-member Politburo. Quan informed Xi of developments made at the congress. It is tradition for the heads of the CPC and CPV to send special envoys to notify or congratulate each other on key national or party decisions. On Jan 29, after the Vietnamese Congress session, Trong met with Song Tao, a special envoy sent by Xi and head of the CPC Central Committee's International Department. On Monday, Xi told the Vietnamese envoy that sending envoys to each other's country after the 12th CPV National Congress "carries great significance in boosting political trust between the two parties and two nations". He used the term "community of common destiny" to describe relations between the two countries, adding that Beijing is willing to work with Hanoi to "properly handle relevant divisions". Pham Nguyen Long, a senior researcher of international relations at the Vietnamese Academy of Social Sciences, said a key topic for Quan's visit is the South China Sea issue, which has become increasingly complex. "The trip is also aimed at curbing tensions over the South China Sea," he said. He said he believed that bilateral relations will continue to be good after the Vietnamese political reshuffle. Pan Jin'e, a researcher of Vietnamese studies at the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences, said the re-election of Trong would help with a smooth transition. "We do not expect major changes in Vietnam's China policies," Pan added. Contact the writer at lixiaokun@chinadaily.com.cn (Photo : Reuters/KCNA) North Korean leader Kim Jong Un (above) greets a women's sub-unit of the North Korean military during a rocket launching drill. China has enforced more trade sanctions against North Korea. Advertisement China and the United States on Wednesday reached an apparent agreement on a draft United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution outlining sanctions intended to end North Korea's nuclear ambitions and bring Pyongyang closer to the negotiating table, according to council diplomats. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the diplomats told South Korea's Yonhap news agency that the draft resolution blacklists three agencies overseeing Pyongyang's nuclear, missile and espionage programs, among others. Like Us on Facebook Advertisement "It's a substantive, long, full draft," one senior council diplomat said, adding the US and China had to resolve a number of disagreements before arriving at a final version of the document. "There is an agreement between those two countries," the source said. Washington was pushing for measures to restrict North Korea's access to international ports, the sources claimed. It is unclear whether China agreed to those terms. "30 Individuals and Entities" The same sources claim the draft document could be brought to the 15-member council soon. It usually takes the body three days to vote and approve resolutions, according to Yonhap. The proposed resolution reportedly levels sanctions against 30 individuals and entities, including North Korea's Ministry of Atomic Energy Industry, the country's National Aerospace Development Agency (NADA) and its secretive spy agency, the General Reconnaissance Bureau. For seven weeks, the US and China have been at loggerheads over North Korea as Beijing refused to back tough economic sanctions demanded by Washington against Pyongyang. Both countries have the authority to veto proposed UNSC resolutions. "Sanctions are not an end in themselves," said Chinese foreign minister Wang Yi in a joint press briefing with US state secretary John Kerry in Beijing last month. Traditional Allies Wang is in Washington this week for another round of talks with Kerry on the substance of the draft UNSC resolution against North Korea. On January 7, North Korea shocked the world by announcing it had successfully tested a hydrogen bomb. International observers in South Korea and the West questioned whether the test detonation was that of a hydrogen bomb as Kim Jong Un alleged, or a fission bomb similar to what Pyongyang had tested previously. Despite the doubts, however, North Korea's move brought scathing criticism on Kim's leadership -- not just from Western countries, but also from North Korea's traditional allies, Russia and China. Then, a month later, the country launched a rocket that put a satellite into orbit, which was seen as a demonstration that the country possesses the technology to build ballistic missiles capable of striking the West. The UNSC is scheduled to discuss the proposed sanctions against North Korea on Thursday at 3PM ET (20:00 GMT), according to the UN press office. Advertisement TagsUS-China relations, UN Security Council resolution, North Korea (Photo : Reuters) An Indian army officer inspects a US rifle during a joint Indo-US exercise in Chaubattia, in Uttaranchal, India. The US has lately replaced Russia as India's top source of military hardware, and now conducts more naval exercises with the country than any other nation in the region. Advertisement The United States and India are close to signing an agreement that will allow the militaries of both nations to use each other's land, air and naval bases for resupplies, repair and rest, a top ranking US military commander has said. The commander of the US Pacific Command (USPACOM) Admiral Harry Harris said on Wednesday that he is confident the two countries will soon resolve concerns over a logistical support agreement (LSA) that has been in the pipeline for 12 years. Like Us on Facebook Advertisement "We have not gotten to the point of signing them with India, but I think we're close," said Harris, who is scheduled to visit India this week. India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi has reportedly signaled a desire to move ahead with the agreement. "Third Party" Harris made the announcement as the two countries consider joint naval patrols, which an unnamed US official said could cover the waters of the South China Sea, according to Reuters. While officials from both India and the US have clarified that the two countries have no immediate plans to conduct the joint patrols, the reports of possible US-India naval operations in the contentious Asian waterway has prompted an angry reaction from Beijing. "No cooperation between any countries should be directed at a third party," Chinese foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei said in an e-mail to Reuters earlier this month. Defense ties between the US and India have been slow to evolve, and experts say the military relationship between the two countries is still very much in its early stages. This is despite years of talk from the Bush and Obama administrations about India's importance in striking a balance of power in the Asia Pacific. India's previous leaders had balked at the proposed LSA with the US military, fearing the deal would draw the country into a binding commitment to support the US in war. But Washington has assured the Modi administration that the agreement does not provide for unqualified Indian support for the US in any armed conflict to which India is not a party. "It has been clarified that it will be done on a case-to-case basis," an official close to the negotiations told Reuters. "It's not automatic that either side will get access to facilities in the case of war." Deepening Ties Defense experts nonetheless say Modi's willingness to move forward on the deal -- which is likely to raise eyebrows in Beijing -- is an indication of the deepening defense ties between the two countries. India has expressed alarm over the Chinese navy's forays into the Indian Ocean, and has moved to build up its naval forces even as it has worked to strengthen defense ties with Japan and Vietnam, both of which have territorial disputes with China. The US has meanwhile replaced Russia as India's top source of military hardware, and now conducts more naval exercises with the country than with any other nation in the region. Admiral Harris said the US and India are also in talks over a communications interoperability and security memorandum of agreement (CISMOA), as well as a pact on the exchange of topographical, nautical and aeronautical data. US officials hope that once the LSA is finalized and signed, the two other pending security agreements would follow. Negotiations are already underway for the US to help India build its largest aircraft carrier, a deal which -- if realized -- would mark the biggest military collaboration between the two countries to date. "There is a growing convergence between Obama's Asia pivot and Modi's Act East policy," Saroj Bishoyi, an expert on the proposed US-India collaboration at the government-funded Institute for Defense Studies and Analyses in New Delhi, told Reuters. "The LSA currently appears to be a doable agreement." Advertisement TagsChina-India, US-India relations, Adm. Harry Harris (Photo : Getty Image) The supply of state land for construction - particularly for real estate projects - in China dropped significantly in 2015. Advertisement Supply of government-owned land for construction in China dropped last year, with land allocated for real estate development affected most, according to the Ministry of Land and Resources (MLR). In 2015, state-owned land plunged by 12.5 percent year-on-year at 534,000 hectares. On the other hand, the use of land for real estate development slumped by nearly 20.9 percent to 120,000 hectares. Meanwhile, land designated for industry, mining and warehouses plummeted to more than 15 percent, while infrastructure allocation fell over 7 percent, MLR reported. Like Us on Facebook Advertisement The decline in real estate land comes as China's property sector is experiencing a supply glut. Investment is slowing down as investors are currently attempting to dispose existing homes, according to China Daily. To address this issue, authorities have announced plans such as chopping down the minimum down payment requirement and slashing off property transaction taxes. The most recent home price data suggests an urban sprawl in the housing market in China, with soaring prices in first-tier cities like Shenzhen and Beijing, whereas small cities are being placed under great pressure. The latest MLR findings revealed that at the end of 2015, commercial and residential real estate prices in more than 100 cities were up by 2.7 and 3.9 percent, respectively, compared with the previous year. According to the 2015 report of the National Bureau of Statistics, there are over 700 million square meters of unsold residential and commercial properties in China - a 15.6 percent increase from 2014. Authorities have announced plans to boost China's housing economy as the real estate market investments significantly affects more than 40 other sectors, including cement and furniture. Advertisement Tagsreal estate, urban sprawl, china, commercial lands, industrial lands (Photo : Getty Images) Beijing has sentenced a pastor and his wife to years in prison for violating the country's laws on illegal organization and building codes. Advertisement A court in eastern Zhejiang province has sentenced a Christian pastor and his wife to years in prison after they defied the state's order to remove crosses atop churches, the state media announced. The couple, who led a Christian congregatio,n was convicted for illegal activities, including corruption and disturbing the social order. Like Us on Facebook Advertisement The court sentenced Bao Guohua to 14 years imprisonment, while his wife Xing Wenxiang was meted out a 12-year sentence, after it was found out that they illegally organized churchgoers to fight the government and disturbed social order. $336,000 The state-run Zhejiang Daily newspaper said the couple tricked the members of the congregation into donating $336,000 to the church. But it was found out that the couple spent the money on cars and other extravagant purchases while pretending to live a very austere life. Christians in Zhejiang's have been at loggerheads with local authorities for the past two years due to the latter's removal of hundreds of crosses atop churches and the demolition of some churches altogether. The local authorities have defended their actions saying the churches violated building codes and infrastructure regulations. Christian population Religious leaders in Zhejiang, who lead Christian churches - most of it sanctioned by the government - said local authorities have turned their ire on the Christian population which has grown in number and influence. Several well-known figures, who have defied the government campaign to remove crosses by staging protest rallies and petitioning the government, have been targeted with criminal prosecutions. The clash between the religious rights of Christians in Zhejiang and the state's right to implement the law has been complicated by the fact that churches have received tons of support from overseas at a time when the Chinese government has lambasted foreign meddling in China's domestic affairs. Illegal religious activities A Beijing-based Christian lawyer Zhang Kai was allegedly detained a day before he was scheduled to go to the United States to meet a US envoy in August. Days after, he was shown on television confessing to organizing illegal religious activities and undermining China's political system with the support of China Aid, a Texas-based group that funds the churches' efforts to resist the removal of crosses. Ten more Christian pastors have reportedly been sentenced to years in prison for violating the state's laws against illegal organization. Advertisement TagsChristian congregation, Illegal religious activities, Pastor, Zhejiang province, china (Photo : Getty Images) Beijing now has more billionaires than New York City. Advertisement China's capital city Beijing has dethroned the United States' New York City as the city with the largest number of billionaires for the first time in history, according to China-based firm Hurun. A report by Hurun reveals that there are now 100 billionaires living in Beijing compared with the 95 in New York City. Meanwhile, Shanghai comes in fifth place. Like Us on Facebook Advertisement The private research firm arrived at the ranking by combining data from publicly traded companies as well as interviews. Other firms like Forbes and Bloomberg utilize different methods and also arrive at varying results. According to Hurun's research, Beijing welcomed 32 new billionaires in 2015, making it possible for the city to surpass New York, which only saw four new billionaires. All in all, China has ousted the United States on the top spot - although the top 10 list of billionaires by Hurun is still being largely dominated by Americans. However, of note, on per country basis, China, with 568 billionaires, after recently adding 90 new ones, now surpasses the United States with 535. If all the wealth of these Chinese billionaires is combined, it is equivalent to Australia's GDP, with a net worth amounting to $1.4 trillion (1.01 trillion). Rupert Hoogewerf, Hurun's chairman, highlighted the increase in the number of wealthy Chinese people despite the reported global financial crisis and the economic slowdown. According to Hurun, Wang Jianlin still holds the title as China's richest man with an estimated net worth at $26 billion (18.8 billion). However, he is still far away from Bill Gates, who topped Hurun's top 10 billionaire list, with a net worth of $80 billion, followed by Warren Buffet at $68 billion. Advertisement TagsBeijing, New York City, hurun report, Chinese Billionaires, wang jianlin, Bill Gates, warren buffet (Photo : Getty Images) A top official in China's Central Bank has dismissed concerns over the possibility of extended fall in Chinas foreign exchange reserves. Advertisement Yi Gang, the vice-governor of China's central bank, on Sunday shrugged off concerns about the possibility of an extended fall in China's foreign exchange reserves and reasserted her confidence in the strength of the Yuan. Speaking to state news agency Xinhua, Yi said, "The falls in forex reserve was mainly because residents increased their holdings and cut their forex debts. This process has a limit and the capital outflow will gradually slow down." Like Us on Facebook Advertisement "We have full confidence in the fundamentals of Renminbi, believing its exchange rate will be increasingly determined by the market fundamentals rather than short-term speculation," she added. Yi gave the interview shortly after attending ongoing G20 financial ministers' meeting in Shanghai. China's Central Bank Chief Zhou Xiaochuan also downplayed concerns about the country's falling foreign exchange reserves while speaking at the G20 meeting on Saturday. He described the recent fall in reserves as 'normal'. China owns the largest foreign exchange reserves in the world. But in recent years it has been burning its reserves at a pace that has many economists worrying. Since mid-2014, China's reserves have fallen by $762 billion, with $99.5 billion shrinking in January this year. Currently, China's foreign exchange reserves stands approximately at $3.23 trillion. Restoring stability in the Yuan, which has witnessed consecutive devaluation in recent years, and bailing out crashing stock market has been putting strenuous pressure on China's foreign exchange reserves. America's Federal Reserve and other global financial institutions have been requesting better management of the Yuan from China. On Saturday, Zhou assured ministers at the G20 summit that China would not be staging another devaluation of the Yuan. Zhou said that since there is still enough room in the country's monetary policy, the need to further devalue the Yuan would not arise. Advertisement TagsChina's central bank, Chinese Economy, China Foreign Exchange Reserves (Photo : REUTERS) Google is reported to be already working on the successor of the Android Marshmallow called the Android N. Advertisement It has not been a full year since Google released the Android Marshmallow, but rumors are already brewing in the tech community that the tech giant is already working on its successor, aptly named Android N. It appears that the Android Developers Blog may have inadvertently released an early look of the upcoming mobile operating system. Like Us on Facebook Advertisement A couple of leaked screenshots are making rounds on tech websites and forums. The screenshot shows a hamburger menu located on the upper left corner of the Settings menu. This feature is not part of Android Marshmallow, so it clearly indicates that Google is working on something innovative in its upcoming operating system. According to Ubergizmo, there are certain indications that Google is planning to ditch the app drawer or at least give users the option to disable it. Some tech analysts are somewhat skeptical about the recent leaks. Some claims that the leaked screenshots might point to an upgrade that Google is working on and not the Android N operating system. Nevertheless, the leak has stirred the tech community into creating speculations regarding the upcoming upgrade for the Android platform. Google is expected to unveil the Android N at the 2016 Google I|O event in May. Aside from the Android N operating system, experts believe that Google will also reveal some its products at the event. Most notable of these are Project Tango and an update on the Google Cars project. Rumors indicate that at the event Google will provide details about its Android Wear product as well as Project Ara. An update for the Google Nexus 7 is also expected as well as more details about the upgraded Google Glass. Interestingly, Google Chief Executive Officer Sundar Pichai is letting the public name the upcoming version of the Android operating system. Google recently launched an online pool in order to pick the name Android N. Advertisement TagsAndroid N, Android, Android N features, Android N leak, Android leak, Android N leaks, Android N screenshot BOLD: Female Arab journalist asks, 'What if Christians were suicide bombers?' 29 February, 2016 by Gregory Tomlin , | DOHA, Qatar (Christian Examiner) A female Arab journalist who lives in Qatar has penned a bold article that asks Muslims in the Middle East how they would respond if Christian suicide bombers struck their public markets, collapsed their tall buildings or tried to force Muslims to convert to Christianity. Liberal Saudi journalist Nadine Al-Budair writes in Kuwait's Al-Rai newspaper that Arab countries have refused to address the problem of terrorism and have yet to create a climate that matches the liberal, humanitarian climate of the West. She asked Muslims to consider what their world would be like if Christians the world over had responded to Muslims the way terrorists have spread radical Islam. "Imagine a Western youth coming here and carrying out a suicide mission in one of our public squares in the name of the Cross. Imagine that two skyscrapers had collapsed in some Arab capital, and that an extremist Christian group, donning millennium-old garb, had emerged to take responsibility for the event, while stressing its determination to revive Christian teachings or some Christian rulings, according to its understanding, to live like in the time [of Jesus] and his disciples, and to implement certain edicts of Christian scholars," Al-Budair writes in a translation of the editorial provided by the Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI). Al-Budair asks her readers to imagine Christian priests calling Muslims infidels over loudspeakers and chanting that God has demanded their deaths. She also writes they should also consider what would happen if Arab countries had provided Westerners with entry visas, benefits, modern healthcare only to have them turn on their hosts to kill them in the name of religion likely a reference to the San Bernardino attacks carried out in December 2015. "These images are far from the mind of the Arab or Muslim terrorist because he is certain, or used to be certain, that the West is humanitarian and that the Western citizen would refuse to respond [in this manner] to the barbaric crimes [of the Muslim terrorists]," Al-Budair writes. "Despite the terrorist acts of Al-Qaeda and ISIS, we [Muslims] have been on [Western] soil for years without any fear or worry. Millions of Muslim tourists, immigrants, students, and job seekers [travel to the West] with the doors open [to them], and the streets safe [for them]." She writes, however, that tolerance for Muslims is fading in the West because Muslims refuse to confront the problem of Islamic extremism. As evidence of this, she points to the presidential campaign of New York billionaire Donald Trump, who in a "scary declaration," she writes, "demanded to bar Muslims from entering the U.S." Al-Budair wrote that Muslims do not have the right to condemn statements like those made by Trump without addressing the failures of Arab educational systems which teach jihad and hatred of the West in madrassas (Islamic schools) around the world. Al-Budair claims Muslim nations should apologize to the rest of the world. Much of what she said about education in the Middle East was voiced a year ago by Jordan's Queen Rania in addressing the United Arab Emirages UAE Government Summit in Dubai. Al-Budair isn't confident, however, that anyone will heed her call for tolerance. "After all these farces, some Arab analyst comes out touting a pathetic message, and reciting the same words in his friend's ear that he has repeated millions of times: 'Those [Muslims who commit terrorism] do not represent Islam, but only themselves.' "This is all we [know how to do] absolve [ourselves] of guilt," she wrote. Al-Budair, who describes herself, as a feminist, last year encouraged Muslim women to flee their "benighted countries" for the safety, security and opportunity of the West. Florida appeals court says OK to 24-hour wait for abortion 29 February, 2016 by Gregory Tomlin , | TALLAHASSEE (Christian Examiner) Women in Florida will have to wait 24 hours for an abortion after a state appeals court lifted an injunction imposed by a lower court. In the court's ruling Feb. 26, judges said the lower court had erred on multiple counts when it imposed the injunction on the waiting period last year after House Bill 633 was signed into law by Gov. Rick Scott. The law was only in effect for a single day before the lower court tried to squash it. The unanimous ruling of the judges on the 1st District Court of Appeals in Tallahassee said the plaintiffs in the case, Gainseville Woman Care, LLC, had failed to demonstrate that the 24-hour waiting period caused irreparable harm to women seeking an abortion. The three-judge panel also said the lower court had shifted the burden of proof to the state to disprove the notion that the law created an obstruction to a woman's right to an abortion (under the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Roe v. Wade). Instead, the court said the plaintiffs had to offer affirmative evidence that the law impeded access to abortion. "The party moving for a temporary injunction must make a showing sufficient to satisfy each of four prerequisites: likelihood of irreparable harm, lack of adequate legal remedy, substantial likelihood of success on the merits, and that the public interest supports the injunction," the judges said in their ruling. According to the ruling, the trial court had only conducted a one-hour hearing on the matter, called no witnesses for the state, but only made a declaration that the law violated the four-point test they described in the ruling. Under the provisions of HB 633, women seeking an abortion would have to make two trips to the doctor before receiving an abortion. One of those meetings has to be 24-hours before the abortion is scheduled to take place. Women who are able to document rape, incest or becoming pregnant through sexual slavery in human trafficking are exempted from the waiting period. Alliance Defending Freedom praised the decision of the appellate court. Steven H. Aden, senior counsel with the group, said Florida's 24-hour waiting period "is a common sense measure that simply gives women and teens "one day to think about have a procedure that is potentially life-changing and fraught with risks." "Basic health standards should not allow for 'drop-in abortions.' The court has done the right thing in allowing this good law to go into effect," Aden said. The decision, however, was casted by Planned Parenthood of Florida and a significant blow to women's rights. The group said in a Facebook post that Florida's "gynoticians" said the law hurts, rather than helps a woman by demeaning and shaming her. The American Civil Liberties Union of Florida also opposed the implementation of the bill. In a press release after the appeals court lifted the ban, staff attorney July Kaye said the ruling will hurt women and place "unnecessary roadblocks" in front of them. Autumn Katz, senior staff attorney for the Center for Reproductive Rights, also said her group will continue to fight the law. "When a woman has made the decision to end a pregnancy, she needs compassionate care not insulting and potentially dangerous delays mandated by politicians who presume to know better," Katz said. A financial affair led the National Religious Broadcasters (NRB), an international association of Christian broadcasting networks, to cut ties with Gospel for Asia (GFA), a missionary organization that aims to spread the gospel throughout Asia. In the beginning of February, a lawsuit claiming the misuse of donor money was filed against Gospel for Asia. Dallas-based Stanley Law Group filed a class action case against GFA claiming that they have hoaxed hundreds of millions of dollars in charity, and redirected the money for the personal needs of founder and international director of GFA, K.P. Yohannan. Matthew and Jennifer Dickson are named the main plaintiffs in the lawsuit, accusing defendants along with Yohannan: his wife, Gisela; his son, Daniel Punnose; Board member David Carroll; and director of the Canadian affiliate of GFA, Pat Emerick, of violating RICO and the Arkansas Deceptive Trade Practices Act. During the years 2007 through 2013, GFA collected over $450,000,000 in funding from the U.S. alone from donors who either made a one-time payment or monthly contributions. Agency Johnnie Moore, president of public relations firm the KAIROS Company, spoke on behalf of GFA, stating that they are working diligently to clear false accusations. He asserts, Gospel for Asia can document the legal and ethical use of funds donated and clearly answer every question. CEO of NRB, Jerry A. Johnson, addressed Yohannan in a letter, saying, While you have stated that you are diligently working to obtain the necessary information and to comply with the standards, you have not been able to do so at this time. Therefore, it is with a heavy heart that I must advise you that NRB must terminate your membership at this time. In order to be an obedient witness of Christ to the world, the NRB states, the association lays out the rule for all members, and states that members need to handle their financial duties in a manner that ensures integrity, accountability, and transparency. Furthermore, Johnson adds, you may reapply for membership when you are able to demonstrate that you meet our financial accountability standards. The NRB's decision to end its contract with GFA comes three months after the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability (ECFA) terminated their contract with GFA claiming that GFA did not meet five of seven important rules for the EFCA. Gospel for Asia has enjoyed, and continues to enjoy a wonderful relationship with the NRB and personal relationship with its leadership. Unfortunately, the NRBs membership requirements are tethered to ECFA accreditation," Moore said. Despite the ongoing issue GFA faces, Moore said he is grateful for many of Gospel for Asias friends and supporters [who] have chosen to stand with the organization and provide greater and great degrees of prayer and support as the ministry works to put this all to rest, for good. Moore said that GFA is in the process of resolving this case within a week. A Chinese pastor who was involved in protesting against removing the cross atop his church has been sentenced 14 years in prison, on charges of corruption, swindling, and gathering people to disturb social order, according to media reports. Bao Guohua was a government-approved pastor and had resisted the cross removal campaign in Zhejiang province, where about 1,200 crosses were removed during the past 2 years. His wife, Xing Wenxiang, was sentenced to 12 years for similar charges. About 10 people for their church were also charged, but the Chinese media has not released details of their sentences. The court confiscated 600,000 renminbi (about $92,000) each from Bao and his wife, and fined Bao with $15,000 and about $14,000 from his wife. The media reported that their sentences were the most severe, which have not been imposed on any of the church leaders in China as yet. The Chinese government has refused to relent in taking down crosses, and maintains that the crosses violate building codes. However, Christian activists say that authorities want to suppress Christianity in Zhejiang, which is also referred to as "China's Jerusalem." Last year, the authorities reinforced a ban on admitting non-atheist members in the Communist Party in Zhejiang province. As the cross removal campaign in Zhejiang started, many of the buildings were also deemed "illegal structures" and razed to the ground. The government's crackdown on Christianity in China continues with the arrest and detention of several clergy members and lawyers defending churches protesting against the removal of crosses. This week, Zhang Kai, a prominent Christian lawyer who took up cases of cross removal, was made to confess on a local television station that he took money from China Aid director Bob Fu to defend churches in his capacity as a lawyer, and was trying to "change China's political system." Zhang was arrested a day before his meeting with US ambassador-at-large David Saperstein in August last year. Responding to the Zhang's "confession", China Aid director Bob Fu released a statement saying, "Although China Aid is mentioned in the shameful Chinese Communist Party's official propaganda as an 'overseas force supporting Zhang Kai's legal defense work,' we will never be intimidated nor cease to continue to promote religious freedom for all in China." In January this year, Gu Yuese, pastor of Hangzhou city's Chongyi Church was arrested, who too had protested against removal of crosses in Zhejiang province. His wife, Zhou Lianmei, was informed by the city police that he was detained on suspicions of swindling. Several faith leaders were asked to write brief comments about the future of Roe. I was glad to see that I was not the only person asked who sees life as beginning at conception and who is ready to see Roe overturned. Survey studies how American Protestants are engaging the refugee crisis, and why many are not. | Image: Steve Jeter / World Vision Churches Are Twice as Likely to Fear Refugees as to Help Them When it comes to helping refugees, Protestant churches and their pastors are often separated by faith and fear. Most pastors say Christians should lend a hand to refugees and foreigners, and most believe caring for refugees is a privilege. But pastors also say their churches are twice as likely to fear refugees as they are to help them, according to a new survey from LifeWay Research. Pastors believe Scripture tells Christians to care for refugees and foreigners, said Ed Stetzer, executive director of the Nashville-based organization. Yet many admit their church is not involved in such ministry. The telephone survey of 1,000 Protestant senior pastors, conducted in January, was sponsored by World Relief and World Vision. [Many of its findings appear in CTs March cover story on why Christians in Iraq and Greece see hope on the refugee highway.] About 20 million people worldwideincluding 4 million refugees from Syria aloneare refugees, according to World Relief, which has resettled refugees for decades. The United States plans to resettle 85,000 refugees in 2016, including 10,000 from Syria. Researchers found widespread support among pastors for the idea of helping refugees. More than 8 in 10 (86%) agree that Christians should care sacrificially for refugees and foreigners. Only 1 in 10 disagree. While 80 percent of pastors consider it a privilege to care for refugees, about 1 in 8 (13%) disagree. Two-thirds (67%) say the United States can balance national security interests with compassion when assisting refugees. About a quarter (28%) are skeptical. Six percent are not sure. Still, researchers found few churches have taken steps to aid refugees. Among pastors, 1 in 5 (19%) ... The poem "Past Carin'" by Henry Lawson describes the hardships of women in the Australian bush. It brings to mind the resilient, leather-skinned face of a once-pretty woman. Through childbirth, sickness, hurt, and blight, And nervousness an' scarin', Through bein' left alone at night, I've got to be past carin'. Past botherin' or carin', Past feelin' and past carin'; Through city cheats and neighbours' spite, I've come to be past carin'. As a sensitive person, I'd love to be "past carin.'" It would be easier than being always open to disappointment, shame, and pain. But I'm a pastor. Ministry doesn't give us that option. Daily, we're exposed to risk and failure, vision and disillusionment. It's excruciating. But we follow the best example. God could have shunned us when we rejected him. He could have blown us out of existence. Instead, he chose to engage, and in a way that exposed him to ... You have reached the end of this Article Preview You have reached the end of this Article Preview To continue reading, subscribe to Christianity Today magazine. Subscribers have full digital access to CT Pastors articles. 1 Easter at Uplift Contact: Marquez Ball, 240-603-3586 LAUREL, Md., Feb. 29, 2016 / Christian Newswire / -- Uplift Church, one of Laurel's newest churches, announced today plans for a community wide Easter celebration. "Easter at Uplift" will take place on Sunday, March 27th immediately following their 10:30am morning worship service. The non-denominational event will feature an Easter egg hunt with thousands of candy filled eggs. Uplift welcomes the community to enjoy a day of food, gospel music, face painting, pony rides, games, bounce houses and more. Additionally, all families in attendance will have an opportunity to take a photo with the Easter bunny. Easter at Uplift will be held at Deerfield Run Elementary 13000 Laurel Bowie Rd, Laurel, MD. The public is invited to attend free of charge. For event details, visit www.upliftmd.com/easter For information on Uplift Church, visit www.upliftmd.com PARKING INFORMATION Parking will be available on site. GUEST INFORMATION Worship service will begin promptly at 10:30am. Guest services (including restrooms, food and refreshments, kids fun zone, special needs parking) will be located at the Church. ABOUT UPLIFT CHURCH Uplift launched September of 2014 with nearly 200 in attendance. Uplift is considered a cutting edge church using technology and social media to share an uplifting message. Uplift Church is led by Rev. Marquez Ball. Leading U.S. Women Rip 'King of Sleaze' Trump Plus Enablers Christie, Huckabee Contact: Bethany Smith, 914-294-5078 CHICAGO, Feb. 29, 2016 / CHICAGO, Feb. 29, 2016 / Christian Newswire / -- Revolted by the idea of a " President Porno ," among other reasons, more leading American women began openly revolting against Donald Trump's White House bid over the weekend ahead of March 1 GOP Presidential "Super Tuesday" contests in Alabama, Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont, Virginia and Wyoming. They included Meg Whitman, the Hewlett-Packard CEO who ripped Trump and his endorser of Friday, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, the candidate Whitman had been funding until Christie's recent exit from the race. "Donald Trump is unfit to be President," she said in part. Donna Baer, Chicago-based author of Strong Happy Family: Unexpected Advice from an Ivy League Mom of Ten , launched 21 million messages to churches, synagogues and Super Tuesday voting households with robo-calls and videos like this . To about 100,000 pastors and rabbis she said, "we want you and your congregation to know all about Donald Trump's disgusting involvement in pornography, infidelity, vice the degrading exploitation of girls and women. marital cheating and misogyny." Rebecca Hagelin, a Florida resident and former Heritage Foundation officer, wrote Sunday of "the King of Sleaze" Trump who spewed filth on Howard Stern's show; of strippers, lap-dancers and porn at the Trump Taj Mahal casino; of Trump's personal attacks on Carly Fiorina as well as Megyn Kelly who, he said, had "blood coming out of her wherever"; of Trump's disdain for "flat-chested" women; of Trump's notorious adultery and promiscuity; of his almost-incestuous declared inclinations to date his own daughter (who has modeled revealingly); and of Trump's third wife Melania Knauss Trump "the would be First Lady [who] has her own record in pornography" and fully nude modeling. Both are easily accessed via search engines. Without mentioning porn, Whitman's statement attacked Christie's naked cravenness, saying, "Chris Christie's endorsement of Donald Trump is an astonishing display of political opportunism. Donald Trump is unfit to be President. He is a dishonest demagogue who plays to our worst fears. Trump would take America on a dangerous journey. Christie knows all that and indicated as much many times publicly. The Governor is mistaken if he believes he can now count on my support, and I call on Christie's donors and supporters to reject the Governor and Donald Trump outright. I believe they will. For some of us, principle and country still matter." Columnist Jennifer Rubin of The Washington Post wrote, "Trump's rise was enabled by many people just 'doing their jobs' -- the mainstream media, talk show hosts, backbenchers in Congress, etc. But none will be as morally culpable as Christie if Trump succeeds. Why? Because he knows better, and because the threat -- and it is a threat -- of Trump as commander in chief, or anyone else unfit for that job, was a central motivation for Christie's run." Author Donna Baer had similar criticism for ex-candidate and former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee, whose daughter and former campaign manager, Sarah Huckabee Sanders, has become a Trump campaign advisor. Baer expects Huckabee, a former Southern Baptist minister, to endorse Trump ahead of Tuesday's voting in Arkansas and 12 other states. She said she is troubled that feminists, female journalists, her home-state governor Chris Christie, Huckabee and Evangelical leaders like Jerry Falwell Jr. are all "climbing into bed with a pornographer, cheat, strip-clubber and woman-degrading boor." Christian-JewishVoterGuides.org, MADAME: Mothers and Daughters Against Misogynistic Exploitation, Redeem the Vote, StrongHappyFamily.org and, ironically, MikeHuckabeePolicySolutions.org, which no longer supports its namesake. One of the linking web pages, www.presidentporno.com , says, "WARNING: GRAPHIC IMAGES OF TRUMP, WOMEN, MISOGYNY." Share Tweet DNA Jews, Khazars, and Asenath Contact: Jennifer Thomasson, 270-534-0792 PADUCAH, Ky., Feb. 29, 2016 /Christian Newswire/ -- According to scholar Terry McIntosh, the subject of DNA regarding Jews, Khazars, and Palestinians is twisted for political and/or religious reasons. His new book "I SHALL FOR THE SAKE OF MY HOLY NAME" documents the Bible story and DNA confirms his findings in what appears to be an undeniable truth. "Special interest groups are always twisting and falsifying facts to protect their beloved agenda in any area of interest. Jews and Palestinians are included for both political and religious reasons," says McIntosh. Some researchers argue that the Jews living in Israel today are imposters and have no connection to the Bible Hebraic tribes. The "Khazarian Hypothesis" says that today's Jews are Khazarian stock hailing from Europe and have no legitimate claim to the Holy Land. Jews are Khazars, not Israelites, according to that conclusion. McIntosh says that is only partially true. The Khazars were a Turkish tribe living between the Caspian Sea and the Black Sea in the eighth century. "Common sense accepts that members of the 12 tribes of Israel migrated around the world. No doubt that Khazaran blood mixed with the tribe of Judah much like Hebrew blood from the tribe of Joseph originally mixed with the Arab gene pool when he married an Arab Egyptian woman. It is a mix of bloodline." To be Jewish means one of two things in the natural by blood or religion. Conversion to Judaism is required by the religion before one is considered Jewish. By law, blood line defines identity. To what extent the Khazars converted to Judaism is open to debate because the historical evidence is very limited. "Regardless," says McIntosh, "converts to Judaism became Jews according to the religious definition. The same process applies to the Sephardic Jews who were centered in Muslim countries and Spain. It is safe to say that today's Jews are a mixed breed of people; however, they are Jewish either by blood or religion, although not all descended directly from Israel. So it is within the framework of the Palestinians. Not all are Hebrew descended." Palestinian DNA identifies exactly with Jewish DNA with the mix of a few Arab genes as would be expected due to intermarriage. The Hebrew University in Jerusalem and other leading academic institutions confirm the findings. McIntosh makes the case for that occurrence in the Bible books of Genesis 41 and 48. The Hebrew Joseph married an Arabic Egyptian woman named Asenath and fathered the half tribes of Israel. The Bible identifies Asenath as from the city of On which was later renamed Heliopolis by the Greeks. An Arabic colony had settled in Egypt according to Juba, an African Prince and historian. Pliny the Elder, a Roman scholar and historian documented that the city of the sun (Heliopolis) was one of the oldest cities of ancient Egypt, and was founded by Arabs and that the inhabitants of the Nile were not Ethiopians, rather they were Arabs. The Hebrew-Arabic union demonstrates that today's Palestinians are descendants of Joseph and Jacob, the man called Israel. I SHALL is written from a Biblical and historical point of view. McIntosh says, "Lovers of truth will love it. People retaining political, racial, or religious prejudice will hate it." The book is available at amzn.to/209Gq5S or www.createspace.com/5893986 UNC excavation crew in Galilee region of Israel uncover first known depictions of biblical heroines An excavation team in Israel has discovered the first known depiction of two biblical heroines from the Old Testament. World to reach 8 billion people in November, India to unseat China as most populous in 2023: UN By Nov. 15, the worlds population is projected to reach 8 billion, and by 2023, India is projected to surpass China as the worlds most populous country, according to a new report from the United Nations. Single, non-religious young adults are most unhappy Americans post-COVID-19: report Young adults under 35 who are single and non-religious report the highest levels of unhappiness since the COVID-19 pandemic began and since 1972, when the General Social Survey began measuring levels of happiness among Americans, a new analysis from the Institute of Family Studies suggests. Forget Serial, here are the 5 Podcasts with a Christian twist that you need to be listening to Podcasts are back and this time they're better than ever. You may have been a keen listener of the hugely popular Serial or any number of the equally well-received audio offerings that have been part of the latest craze but when it comes to podcasts with a faith angle, how many make your list? If the answer is zero, then rest assured because help is at hand. And even if you consider yourself to be a Christian podcast connoisseur, there's a chance that at least one of these isn't yet on your radar. This post on podcasts has got a slight female theme, but you can enjoy and benefit from these audible no matter what your gender. Rooted - Beth Redman and Pippa Gumbel host this monthly podcast which is aimed at women (men are welcome to listen too). They interview special guests, share stories and discuss scripture. Beth says she hopes the podcast "feels like a community, a friendship, a sharpening tool." Why not check it out to see for yourself? VOUS Church - Dawnchere and her husband Rich Wilkerson Jr are both lead pastors at Vous Church. This podcast features both of them and other guests. It's an audio upload of their weekly services in Miami but no matter where you are in the world, you're welcome. If you're searching for an insight into faith from a female perspective, then Dawnchere's podcasts may be just what you're looking for. New episodes are uploaded each Monday. St Luke's Gas Street Church- Similar to the Vous Church podcast, the Gas Street Church podcasts are recordings of their services in Birmingham, England. This church is fairly new so there have only been a handful of uploads so far but one of them is from Rachel Hughes. She kicked off their Kingdom series with the episode 'Kingdom Invitation'. Bible in One Year- You may be familiar with the Bible in One Year programme, but did you know you can also listen to it on the go? The main element of the podcast is delivered by Nicky Gumbel, Alpha Course pioneer and vicar of Holy Trinity Brompton, but his wife, Pippa Gumbel, adds her own teaching to the end of each episode. New commentary is added daily. BBC Religion - So, as you've probably guessed this isn't a strictly Christian podcast but it does feature some great discussions on the Christian faith. If you're a history buff or interested in learning more about the historical development behind certain aspects of Christianity, then the podcasts found here have plenty to keep you interested. 5 questions every Christian voter should ask this election The US election is coming up, and it's vital we all pay attention. American Presidents play a huge role in the global arena, as well as at home, and in that sense Christians around the world have skin in this game. We should be praying that in this most unpredictable of electoral races, our brothers and sisters across the pond will have the wisdom to think hard and decide well. As we reflect on their choices, we are reminded of our own responsibility when it comes to elections. 1. Are we going to vote? I believe Christians have a moral responsibility to vote. Voting recognises the equality of all people and their right to speak and be heard (Deuteronomy 10:17-19). It is one way that we can obey God's command to seek the good of those around us and our nation as a whole (Jeremiah 29:5-6). It forces us to face up to the issues facing our world and to have a say on the things that really matter. I believe voting means taking the time to inform yourself of the issues at stake. An informed vote means you don't simply vote with your tribe or back the party your ancestors or peers have always voted for. 2. Will we vote for a better world, not just a better life? The economy is of course an important factor of governance but as Christians we should be vigilant to make sure that when we cast our vote we are as concerned about the welfare of others as we are for our own. Jesus couldn't have been clearer with his priorities; we are to love our neighbours as ourselves. This perspective should influence all aspects of our lives, including our voting. Throughout Scripture God is clear that he has special concern for those on the margins of society. Jesus himself explained that he had come to preach "good news to the poor." As we vote we can ask ourselves: how will my decision affect the poor, the marginalised, the sick, the outsider, the widow and the orphan? 3. How can we avoid being manipulated? My dog was anyone's for a ham sandwich. Any walk in the park would have illustrated perfectly clearly that he would abandon all loyalty to myself should a stranger offer him a tasty snack. Sadly, electioneering can bring the worst out of leaders where tasty promises and deals appear to be on offer, and it can bring the worst out of us as our ears prick up to certain trigger key words and catchphrases. If we're not careful, our loyalty is bought not with rational response but rather with instinctual pavlovian reaction. We can become so attuned to hot button issues in political debate that we are easily manipulated. We need enough discernment to see what is going on beneath the rhetoric. As Christians we belong to God and the loyalty we give to anyone else derives from our commitment to God first. We owe it to God to be discerning voters so we don't offer to Caesar what belongs to God alone. 4. How can I be a peacemaker in politics? Right at the core of democracy is the recognition of the equal worth and value of each person: each of us, whether president or roadsweeper, gets to cast only one vote. Yet ironically, political and, perhaps especially, presidential electoral debate can undermine this equality, as each candidate tries to better, belittle and beat the other. There is a temptation therefore to vilify and even dehumanise our political opponents, as though they were the enemy. But for Christians peacemaking is the family business. As Jesus put it, "Blessed are the peacemakers for they will be called the sons of God". He commanded us to "love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you," (Matthew 5:44). As the tensions rise it is surely important that we speak well of all the candidates and their followers and not let political affiliation be a barrier for Christian unity. There are usually Christian people of good conscience operating on all sides of the political spectrum. 5. Look for character and competency in a leader We are familiar with the warnings Jesus gave of wolves in sheep's clothing: the inner character of a leader is more significant than their outward charisma. Most of us have been trained to be on our guard for smooth talkers and to look behind the trigger words and media spin for integrity and authenticity. But it is also important to be looking at the skills that potential leaders can bring do they actually have the requisite skills and experience to do the job? When deciding which candidate to vote for we should be on the look out for true character and competency, and learn to distinguish that from the projected and airbrushed images of the candidates. An election should be more than a popularity contest or a beauty pageant. At a time of huge global change we need leaders we can trust at every level of politics. Dr Krish Kandiah is a Contributing Editor to Christian Today and founder and director of Home for Good. A question of integrity: Why we shouldn't confuse social action and evangelism Top Roman Catholic ecclesiastics have spoken out against using charitable work as a 'front' for evangelism. A Vatican conference has heard warnings against trying to manipulate people into conversion through doing good things for them. Instead, as Cardinal Antonio Tagle from the Philippines said: "The Christian truth is beautiful, and beautiful things attract." Many churches do undertake charitable or social action projects, ranging from toddler groups to debt counselling or domestic violence support. But in a multi-faith society and a complicated world, Christians are having to navigate increasingly complex issues around evangelism. One of these is about how it relates to social action. At its starkest, the question looks like this: should we do something good just because it's good, or should we do it hoping to convert people? One side argues like this. Christians are supposed to reflect Christ in all they do. Jesus didn't heal the sick in order to persuade them that following him was a good idea; he healed them because they were sick. We should do good just because it's good. If we don't, we're attaching conditions to the gospel and risking people being drawn to it just because of what they can get out of it. The label for converts like this is "rice Christians", defined in Brewer's Dictionary of Phrase and Fable (1898) as "Converts to Christianity for worldly benefits, such as a supply of rice to Indians" someone's starving, and you offer them food if they convert, which is clearly wrong. So you should provide a church's play group or dementia care group just because it's needed, not because you want to make converts because of it. The other side argues like this. Evangelism is paramount. Jesus told his disciples to go into all the world and preach the gospel. He wants all the world to repent and trust in him. Everything a church does should be geared to making and discipling converts. If we don't have that as our goal, we're betraying his commands. Churches that set up youth groups or day centres and don't mention Christ are just acting as social services instead of fulfilling their God-given mandate to make disciples. A debt counselling charity that doesn't present the gospel is a waste of time. Now, those are the extremes. Most people reading this will fall somewhere in the middle of the spectrum between them. We believe Christians should always do good ("Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers," says Paul in Galatians 6:10). But we believe, too, that Christians should never forget they're called to witness to Christ. In everything we do, we need to be transparent about why we're doing it and never compromise on our identity as Christians. How we do our social action might look different in different contexts. A contribution from the Theos theological think-tank last year put it like this. The Problem of Proselytism looked at faith-based organisations involved in social welfare. It helpfully distinguishes between the "full-fat" approach, where organisations major on faith and the transformation of individuals; the "half-fat", where services are linked to a worshipping community and "holistic" mission is practised; and "low-fat", where organisations "disavow proselytism or overt evangelism as such", but see users as being on a "spiritual journey". It doesn't say one approach is better than another, but stresses that faith-based organisations should be "intentional, honest, explicit and consistent in their approach, rooted in a clear understanding of what they are trying to achieve". Most churches and faith-based organisations will fall into one of those categories. Whichever one describes our own, here are principles for how we do good and evangelise at the same time. 1. Honesty We should never put on a particular event or offer a service pretending it's one thing when it's another. If a university Christian Union offers new students free food, they should be clear if it's going to include a talk about Jesus too. 2. Respect Speaking at the Vatican conference last week, another German cardinal gave the example of Christians helping Muslim refugees in his country. Cardinal Gerhard Muller said: "We must not use the charity we practise and transform it into an instrument of proselytism." Sometimes, he said, "a silent witness is the best witness of the love of God". But, he added: "There are among these migrants, the majority of whom are Muslim, [some] who ask, 'Why are Christians, and not our fellow Muslims, helping us?'" And when those questions arise, he said, aid workers shouldn't be afraid to give an answer "rooted in the faith". 3. Integrity If we're Christians, we have to be absolutely clear about our identity as disciples of Christ. Whenever we're in a situation of engaging with people who don't share our faith, we need to be ready to bear witness when we can. This isn't the same as trying to shoe-horn references to Jesus into every conversation: as 1 Peter 3: 16-16 says, "Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect, keeping a clear conscience, so that those who speak maliciously against your good behaviour in Christ may be ashamed of their slander." 4. Compassion Some needs are visible, others aren't. If someone has a problem with alcohol or other drugs, is homeless or in debt, it may be easy to see their need. But everyone needs a Saviour, too, whether they know it or not. True compassion addresses people's spiritual needs, not just their other needs. One thing the Bible is very clear about is this: not doing good to people who need it is not an option. In a solemn warning, Jesus uses the image of a shepherd separating sheep and goats (Matthew 25: 31-46). The King tells the "goats": "Depart from me, you who are cursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels. For I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was ill and in prison and you did not look after me." We all know we should be doing good to our neighbour. We all know we should be preaching the gospel, too. Maybe the most important thing is finding the right balance so we can keep both of Jesus' commands and bring the whole gospel to the whole world. Bishop of cocaine-snorting priest is 'concerned' for his health The bishop of a Roman Catholic priest caught on video snorting cocaine has said he is "concerned" for his health. Father Stephen Crossan, 37, was shown sniffing a line of cocaine through a rolled-up 10 note in a room full of Nazi memorabilia, according to a video obtained by The Sun on Sunday. Father Crossan, who has requested "extended leave" from his diocese of Dromore in Northern Ireland, had been out drinking in July last year near what was then his home in the grounds of St Patrick's Church in Banbridge, County Down. He seemed to say "I shouldn't" as he took the drug, according to the video. Father Crossan admitted to the newspaper that he took the drugs. He said: "It was just the one night and that was it." The video shows Nazi memorabilia such as an eagle with a swastika and a hat. But Crossan, a former prison chaplain who was on sick leave with depression when the video was shot, insisted he was not a Nazi and said he collected historical items from other countries as well. In a statement given to Christian Today, the Bishop of Dromore, Dr John McAreavey, said: "In May 2015 Stephen Crossan, a curate in the Diocese of Dromore, requested and was granted leave from his pastoral duties in Seapatrick Parish on health grounds. Since then he has been undergoing a period of counselling whilst also considering his own future. "At the start of February 2016 Stephen Crossan informed the Bishop that he now wished to take an extended leave of absence from the priesthood. This was acceded to and a letter to this effect was read out at Masses in Seapatrick parish over the weekend of the 12/14th February. "The Bishop had no knowledge of the incident, which allegedly occurred in the Parochial House in July 2015; however he is concerned for the health of Stephen Crossan and will pray for and support him and his family through whatever issues he is facing at the moment. No further comment will be made." Catholic ethics body: Zika virus outbreak does not justify 'intrinsically immoral' use of contraceptives Pope Francis has already said that the use of contraceptives can be considered permissible to stop the further spread of the Zika virus. The most respected Catholic ethics body in the United States, however, remains steadfast in its opposition to the use of condoms and pills, even in the face of this public health emergency. In an opinion article published on LifeSite News, the National Catholic Bioethics Center said the threats posed by the Zika virus infection, especially to pregnant mothers and their babies, still do not justify contraceptive use. The ethics body, whose board of directors includes five Archbishops and three Cardinals, maintained that the suspected connection between the Zika virus and the condition called microcephaly, which makes babies have abnormally small heads, does not warrant a change in the "Catholic Church's consistent teachings on the sacredness and inviolability of human life and the dignity." The group further said that the Catholic Church should still value the "beauty of the means of transmitting life through marital relations" even with the threat of the Zika virus. "Contraceptive acts are intrinsically immoral and contrary to these great goods," the ethics body said in its commentary. The Catholic ethics group also pointed out that there is still no confirmation that the Zika virus is linked to microcephaly. Thus the body said the use of condoms should not be equated to something good or morally right. "Apart from the scientific questions about the actual effectiveness of condoms in disease prevention, using condoms to reduce the likelihood of Zika transmission amounts to directly intending contraceptive acts of intercourse as a means to a good end," the body said. "Condom use could not have the effect of preventing pregnancy, but it would prevent a true marital act from taking place, which always involves a complete giving and receiving on the part of the husband and wife," it added. The ethics body also rejected proposals to allow abortions on unborn babies affected by the Zika virus. "Proposing abortion as a medical solution to the child's pathology is suggesting the direct destruction of innocent human life as a means of healing," the Catholic group said. Christian student expelled from university for quoting Bible on homosexuality A married Christian student with four children has been expelled from his university because he wrote a post on Facebook opposing gay marriage. Felix Ngole, aged 38, was asked to leave the University of Sheffield, where he was in the second year of a Masters in social work. He is to appeal against the decision, which came after members of the faculty decided he might have "caused offence" to some people for expressing support for Kim Davis, the Kentucky clerk jailed after refusing to issue same-sex marriage licences. In the comments on Facebook profile, which were not visible to anyone outside his circle of friends, he quoted Leviticus in support of biblical teaching on marriage and sexual ethics. The post was brought to the attention of the faculty at Sheffield. Following a Faculty of Social Sciences "fitness to practise" committee hearing, he was advised he has been "excluded from further study on a programme leading to a professional qualification" and is "no longer recognised as a University student". This was because the committee believed that he "may have caused offence to some individuals" and had "transgressed boundaries which are not deemed appropriate for someone entering the social work profession." His action would have an effect on his "ability to carry out a role as a social worker," the committee said. "Your student record will be terminated shortly and your library membership and University computer account withdrawn. You may wish to contact your funding body for advice on your financial position," he was told. Ngole is appealing the decision and is being supported by the Christian Legal Centre. He said the decision created an effective "bar to office for Christians" and amounted to "secret policing of Christian belief." He added that he is "determined to challenge the decision because of its wider consequences and the huge issues of freedom of religion and freedom of expression that it raises." He said: "My beliefs about marriage and sexual ethics reflect mainstream, biblical understanding, shared by millions around the world. Simply expressing that understanding, in a personal capacity, on my Facebook page, cannot be allowed to become a bar to serving and helping others in a professional capacity as a social worker." Ngole made the comments in question last September on his personal Facebook page, in connection with the case of Kim Davis, the marriage clerk from the US state of Kentucky, who expressed a conscientious objection to issuing marriage certificates to same-sex couples. He expressed support for Kim Davis' freedom and in the course of the discussion explained biblical teaching on sexual ethics. Ngole said: "The way that I have been treated raises very serious issues about the way students in English universities are being censored in their views and beliefs. "If the personal statements of students on their own social media pages, and amongst their own 'friends' are now to be used to judge whether they are 'fit and proper people' to serve in professions such as law, medicine, teaching and social work, then very serious questions need to be asked about the freedoms in the UK. "A university is not the proper body to judge whether a potential student is a fitting person to join a professional body. That is for the professional body concerned. If universities are now to scrutinise their student's social media accounts, then students should be warned about that at the very start of their studies, and should be given the opportunity to decide whether it is the sort of university they want to attend. "If each university is making its own, arbitrary decisions, who is monitoring these decisions and how can students ensure that, across all universities, there is good, fair and equal assessment of such issues?" He also said there was a far more serious issue at stake. "Further education is a time when all students should be helped to explore their beliefs, through interaction and debate. If they are 'censored' from even sharing their ideas or beliefs as part of a discussion on Facebook then how can that happen? Even the Soviet Union did not restrict students like this! "If these sort of judgemental procedures were in place when David Cameron and other Cabinet ministers were in Oxford, and some were members of the Bullingdon Club, one wonders whether they would have been prevented from continuing their courses as well! "The university claims my views are discriminatory but I am the one being discriminated against because of my expression of Christian beliefs. I wonder whether the university would have taken any action if a Muslim student who believes in Shari'a law, with its teaching about women and homosexuality, had made moderate comments on his Facebook page. I don't think so." Andrea Williams, chief executive of the Christian Legal Centre, said: "The university's treatment of Felix fundamentally violates its responsibilities under the Human Rights Act. The university has failed to protect his freedom of speech under Article 10 and his freedom of religion under Article 9. Students are entitled to discuss and debate their own personal views on their own Facebook page. "Felix has worked with people who identify as homosexual, treating them with respect and not discriminating against them. What he shared on his Facebook page simply reflects biblical teaching on sexual behaviour. "He is not yet a social worker, and has never been asked to give any undertaking about expressing views in ways which might cause offence to others. He is not someone in a public position, but rather a student, who is entitled to express his views, especially ones shared by millions of people around the world. "There is no evidence that Felix's views impacted his work, or that he was not a hard-working student who should qualify in due course. "Sadly, this is yet another case of Christians being 'neutered' in the public arena, and of censorship of views. We will help Felix fight this through the University's appeals process, and to Judicial Review if necessary." A spokesperson from the University of Sheffield said: "The University of Sheffield is concerned that stories in the media about a student undertaking a MA in Social Work are factually incorrect. The individual concerned is currently appealing the decision of a Fitness to Practise Committee, relating to professional registration and the standards of the relevant professional body. These standards are nationally determined by the Health and Care Professions Council. As the case is subject to appeal, the University of Sheffield will not comment on this case at this time." Ngole told Christian Today that nothing he had said was "incorrect". He said he had documentation to support every aspect of his case. Christian Union Sexual Relationships Course Under Fire at Edinburgh University A course at Edinburgh University which promotes the traditional marriage as the best setting for a sexual relationship has come under fire from other students who have branded it "homophopic". The 'Pure' course run by the Christian Union teaches the 'Orthodox Christian teaching on relationships and sex' - centred on the biblical view that sex was intended by God within the lifelong commitment of marriage. Now the university's Student Representative Council (SRC) has branded the course "homophobic" and is calling for it to be banned. Activists have also warned the university's management that they will do all they can to disrupt the course, including picketing, when it starts on Monday unless it is scrapped, reports Edinburgh Evening News. Even the university's chaplain has failed to defend Christian Union, after he said the course could no longer be held at the chapel for fear of upsetting people. CU staff worker Matthew Tindale, however, has defended Pure and denies it is discriminatory against homosexuals. He said: "This is looking at the orthodox view on marriage, which says there should be no sex before marriage. "If a heterosexual man came along who sleeps around, I am sure he would find it uncomfortable too. "This is not about discriminating against homosexuals. "Christian teaching shows that all sin is treated the same way, whether you are homosexual or heterosexual." The course will be spread over eight sessions. Tindale said that it would only look at the issue of homosexuality within its biblical context and that it would be open to everyone to attend. CUs across the country are due to run the Pure course, which has met with widespread criticism and even prompted the launch of a counter-campaign called Stop Pure by liberal students and gay and lesbian activists. Activists at Edinburgh are pushing for a campus-wide ban while Tindale said the CU was now writing to the university's principle asking for a new venue. Tindale said CU would be forced to cancel the event if it failed to get the university's backing. "It is part of the Christian faith to follow the rules of the land, so the CU will not do it if the University bans the course, though we would appeal it." Christian university grants benefits to gay couples while maintaining that marriage is between man and woman A Christian university in Arizona has granted benefits to lawfully married same-sex couples while maintaining its religious beliefs that marriage should be between a man and a woman. The Grand Canyon University (GCU) in Phoenix said its decision respects the government and laws after the U.S. Supreme Court legalised same-sex marriage in the country last June. "As a result, notwithstanding GCU's sincerely held religious beliefs regarding marriage, we have recently been confronted with the issue of whether GCU will extend benefits to lawfully married same-sex couples. For the reasons articulated in this statement, in this specific instance, GCU is making a conscious choice to maintain its religious beliefs, while respecting and honouring its neighbours, as well as the system of government and laws that exist today, by extending employee benefits to spouses of lawfully married same-sex couples," the university said in a statement. It clarified that this does not change its stance on marriage. "To be clear, though, the University's decision in this instance, and the recent changes, or any future changes, in the government's definition of marriage, do not, and will not, change GCU's sincerely held religious belief that marriage is a sacred union between a man and a woman," it said. GCU said this sacred union between a man and a woman will continue to be espoused throughout the University's curriculum and classrooms. "This belief is not negotiable," it said. The university, which has about 16,000 students, was earlier criticised by its employees for denying benefits to same-sex couples, the Gospel Herald reported. The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) in Arkansas told the university that it was violating federal laws. An employee filed a complaint. "This is an important win for everyone involved," said Victoria Lopez, the ACLU chapter's legal director. "People should not be discriminated against because of who they are, who they love and who their families are." The university said, "Some may judge GCU harshly for its decision to remain firmly rooted in traditional Christian convictions and steadfast in its commitment to the biblical view of marriage. Others may chastise the University for extending benefits to same-sex spouses because the decision can be misperceived as an implicit endorsement of non-Christian views." "Both responses would fail to comprehend GCU's position adequately. The decision to remain consistently Christian and profoundly biblical remains a legitimate, constitutionally-protected position. This position is neither intrinsically harsh nor unloving, no matter how unpopular it has become in some circles," it said. Christians urged to welcome Syrian refugees as part of Christian mission Parishes across Britain have been urged to join Christian "mission" by housing Syrian refugees as the government's resettlement strategy gains momentum. Rt Rev Stephen Cottrell, Bishop of Chelmsford, wrote a blog post on Monday calling on churchgoers to resettle vulnerable refugees as part of spreading the gospel alongside their work with food banks, street pastors and debt advice services. Cottrell was one of the 84 bishops to sign a letter calling on the government to increase the number of refugees relocated to Britain "to a minimum of 50,000". The initially private letter prompted controversy after it was published by the Church of England because they had "not received any substantive reply" from the Prime Minister. Monday's remarks are the latest in the Church's campaign to offer hospitality to refugees relocated to Britain under the government's scheme. "Faith communities can really make a difference and put local, warm, welcoming flesh on the bones of statutory structures," wrote Cottrell. "This is not the church saying 'look at us being charitable!', but the people of God letting their deeds speak for Him. "Helping to support displaced people into a sustainable, long-term future amidst a strange culture is not for the short term and it is not for the faint-hearted. "It is brilliant if we churches can provide premises, or money, or a friendly welcome: much better if we can commit to long-term, costly partnership with local authorities and charities to go the distance." The debate over refugees has become more toxic since the bishops' letter was published in October. Anti-Islamic groups such as Pegida have gained momentum across Europe and incidents such as the attacks in Cologne on New Year's Eve have shifted public opinion away from initial sympathy for refugees fleeing warfare and persecution in the Middle East. However Cottrell maintained that more should be allowed in. "Right now, it is a key moment for churches to be pressing forward on those 20,000," he wrote. "The sooner and the more straightforwardly they can be helped to settle in this country, the stronger will be the case for taking more." David Cameron's initial pledge to resettle 1,000 by last Christmas, has now been achieved and the government is now looking to house nearly 5,000 per year for the next four years which, Cottrell suggested, will take "more planning". The blog post came as the Church published updated information on how parishes and dioceses can help support refugees. The Bishop of Durham, Rt Rev Paul Butler, co chair of the National Refugee Welcome Board, said: "Church of England parishes and dioceses have already responded with great generosity to the refugee crisis in Europe through fundraising and practical help here in the UK. "The Church of England dioceses are well placed to support the work of local authorities and established agencies: not just helping to provide a welcome for refugees as they first arrive, but also ensuring that they receive crucial long term support." Hijab wearing Wheaton professor: 'I would do it again and again' Larycia Hawkins, former Wheaton College professor expelled for saying Christians and Muslims worship the same God, has said she would do it all over again. The evangelical lecturer posted a photograph of herself in a hijab in December with a caption encouraging solidarity with Muslims. The post prompted outrage and Hawkins was immediately suspended from her role. In her original Facebook post, Hawkins had said, "I stand in religious solidarity with Muslims because they, like me, a Christian, are people of the book. And as Pope Francis stated last week, we worship the same God." Despite the fallout, Hawkins has said she would repeat her actions. "I had no idea it would blow up in the way it did, but I would do it again and again and again," she said in a public conversation last Wednesday at the First United Methodist Church in Chicago. In wearing the hijab she was "trying to position myself with my Muslim sisters", she said. That's what solidarity is, she added: "standing with people whatever their need." Hawkins' post was in response to Jerry Falwell Jr, President of Liberty University, who had just encouraged his students to carry concealed guns so they could "end those Muslims before they walked in". "It just blows my mind when I see that the president of the United States that the answer to circumstances like that is more gun control," he said days after a shooting in San Bernardino, California left 14 people dead. "What was I thinking?" asked Hawkins. "What was Jerry Falwell, Jr., thinking? I think that's the appropriate question. I also think the appropriate question is 'who are we?'" Hawkins was speaking alongside Ahmed Rehab, executive director of the Chicago office of the Council on American-Islamic Relations. "It was something that stuck out positively as a surprise that somebody would care enough to do something like this," he said of Hawkins' post. "We had sort of accustomed ourselves to hearing and seeing the opposite." Rehab said his understanding of Christianity "has been enhanced and it's been improved, and the appreciation for living out Christian values and beliefs have improved as well. "I actually see Christianity embodied in Professor Hawkins' actions," he said. "So it's not just rhetoric. God put you on this path, Larycia. Now we're having these conversations." Jennifer Garner, inspired by 'Miracles From Heaven,' is now more vocal about her Christian faith American actress Jennifer Garner has always been a devout Christian who attends church regularly. However, she used to feel awkward broadcasting her faith. "It makes kind of, 'Ahhhh,'" she said during a visit to Pastor T.D. Jakes' ministry, according to Charisma News. Things all changed when Garner took on the role of Christy Beam in the faith-based movie "Miracles From Heaven." The movie is based on the real life story of Annabel Beam, a young girl who had a near-death experience after being knocked out by a hollow tree, went to heaven, then woke up completely healed. In one scene in the movie, Annabel's mother Christy, while sitting beside her daughter's hospital bed, is overwhelmed and terrified when her daughter asks her: "Mommy, I want to die and go to heaven and be with Jesus where there is no pain... you would kill yourself and go with me?" Commenting on what her daughter said, Christy says she "felt sick, felt like throwing up." "What that meant to me wasn't the loss of me, too, but it meant she had processed it, that Daddy will be here to take care of other girls, they will be fine. She wasn't going to go without me," she says. The spiritual bond Christy had with her daughter Annabel deeply resonated with Garner, who felt inspired to pass on her Christian faith to her children. Now, Garner does not hesitate anymore about sharing her faith, knowing that her children will benefit from it. "I will say that being around this community, and while I've always gone to church in West Virginia, that when I got back to Los Angeles, I was talking to my kids about the movie, and they said, 'Mom you don't take us to church,' and we went that Sunday, and they went today without me. That decision was a direct gift from this movie and for that I'm very grateful," the actress said. Kate Middleton pregnant rumors latest: Stories debunked by planned trip to India and Bhutan with Prince William Rumors about the third pregnancy of Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton refuse to fade. According to reports, the Duchess is pregnant with her third child with her husband Prince William. But this time, she is said to be bearing twins. The reports claim that the royal couple's family is growing further. Currenty they have 2-year-old Prince George Alexander Louis, born on July 22, 2013, and Princess Charlotte Elizabeth Diana, born May 2, 2015. The speculations about the Duchess's pregnancy began when the royal couple decided to skip the annual Middleton family trip on the island of Mustique in the Caribbean in January. However, Gossip Cop has already debunked the rumors, saying that the pregnancy news is not true. The recent public appearance lineup of the royal couple also confirms that it would be impossible for her to be pregnant with twins at this point. According to People, the Duke and Duchess are scheduled to visit the iconic Taj Mahal during their tour in India in April. The couple's visit will happen 24 years after Prince William's mother Princess Diana went to the same picturesque location in 1992. The legendary photo of Princess Diana in front of the Taj Mahal sparked rumors about the troubled marriage between her and Prince Charles. They announced their divorce after the photo was taken. After their tour in India, in the cities of New Delhi and Kaziranga, which will begin on April 10, the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are also scheduled to visit the kingdom of Bhutan for two days to meet with their Himalayan counterparts King Jigme and Queen Jetsun. Then they will head back to India on April 16 to visit a UNESCO heritage site. But unlike their visit to New Zealand and Australia in 2014, the royal couple will not take their children with them during this trip. More artificial babies soon? Chinese scientists successfully grow mouse sperm cells inside laboratory Are we on our way to seeing more and more artificial human beings soon because of science? Scientists in China have successfully bred a handful of healthy mice from sperm cells they created themselves inside the laboratory using embryonic stem cells plucked from these animals. Manufacturing the mouse sperm cells was not an easy process. The scientists had to meticulously and carefully nudge the mouse stem cells through a complex series of steps known as meiosis to make sure that they can properly develop into sperm cells. Jiahao Sha, research head and director of the Laboratory of Reproductive Medicine at Nanjing Medical University in China, explained that the results of their experiments on the mice mark an important milestone in science, and can provide hope to human males suffering from infertility. Sha nevertheless acknowledged that there are still ethical considerations involved before they can move forward in their experiments and possibly use it for human subjects. Utilising manufactured sperm cells for human experiments can have an effect not just on the immediate offsprings born but also on future generations. "If it works, human sperm cells could possibly be produced. However, in the current stage, ethics should be concerned, and any possible risks ruled out," Sha explained, as quoted by The Guardian. The lead researcher nevertheless said that their technique of manufacturing healthy sperm cells from stem cells "holds tremendous promise," especially in producing babies even without sexual intercourse. "If proven to be safe and effective in humans, our platform could potentially generate fully functional sperm for artificial insemination or in-vitro fertilisation," Sha said. Niels Geijsen, a stem cell biologist at the Hubrecht Institute in Utrecht, the Netherlands, meanwhile said the Chinese scientists' experiment is indeed promising, given the fact that the scientific community has tried, but failed, to create sperm cells in the laboratory. "It is, I think, truly the first time any lab has been able to go all the way up to a live pup in vitro, which is quite amazing, if this is indeed what happened," Geijsen told Science Magazine. Nebuchadnezzar: What his mental illness tells us about human nature King Nebuchadnezzar's story is told in the book of Daniel. He is a dreamer, whose dreams are interpreted by the prophet, who's also called 'Belteshazzar'. The dream of the image with a gold head and feet of clay is well known (chapter 2). But he also dreams of a tree that is cut down, with only the stump remaining. Daniel interprets the dream to mean that the tree stands for Nebuchadnezzar himself. He will be 'cut down' and sent to live with the animals until 'seven times' pass by for him (4:16) unless he repents of his sin. A year later Nebuchadnezzar is walking on the roof of his palace in Babylon and says in his pride, "Is not this the great Babylon I have built as the royal residence, by my mighty power and for the glory of my majesty?" (30). Immediately, "what had been said about Nebuchadnezzar was fulfilled. He was driven away from people and ate grass like the ox. His body was drenched with the dew of heaven until his hair grew like the feathers of an eagle and his nails like the claws of a bird" (33). It looks as though Nebuchadnezzar was suffering from a form of mental illness called "boanthropy", where someone is convinced they are an ox or other bovine. Some scholars have suggested the story in Daniel was based on a story about another king of Babylon, Nabonidus. A fragmentary 'prayer' left by him refers to him being "afflicted for seven years" and being driven far from men until he "prayed to the most high God". He says a Jewish exorcist pardoned his sins. Another fragment refers to Nebuchadnezzar's eldest son Evil-Merodach and may indicate that Evil-Merodach took over as regent for his father during a period of illness. Text is missing, but it says "his life appeared of no value to him...then he gives an entirely different order...he does not show love to son or daughter..." Whatever the origins of the story, the book of Daniel was written to show us what happens when we turn away from God. Our highest calling is to serve him. When we go our own way and fail to acknowledge him, we descend to the level of animals. We may not look like Nebuchadnezzar, with his hair as long as eagles' feathers, but in our moral and spiritual nature we've become like him. God asks for our repentance and faith to bring us back to what we ought to be. Oscars 2016 live stream (ABC TV): Watch Academy Awards Best Film, Actor, Actress winners online The Oscars 2016 takes place on Sunday and Hollywood's biggest night of the year will feature a host of stars under the spotlight as millions tune in around the globe. The 88th Academy Awards takes place from the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, with the Red Carpet event starting from 7 p.m. ET, and the main ceremony having a scheduled start time of 8.30 p.m. ET. The awards show can be watched on TV on the ABC network or online through live stream via the link below. There are a number of strong films competing for the Best Picture Oscar this year with eight movies receiving the nomination. Spotlight is one movie that critics have praised and touted as a possible winner of this year's top award. Featuring Mark Ruffalo, Michael Keaton, Rachel McAdams, and Liev Schreiber, Spotlight follows the story of how The Boston Globe uncovered the child sex abuse scandal in Boston region by multiple Catholic priests. Leonardo DiCaprio's The Revenant is also up for the award. The story is based upon true events and has been widely praised by critics. Tom Hank's Bridge of Spies, and Matt Damon's The Martian will also be competing though, as well as The Big Short, Room, Max Max Fury Road, and Brooklyn, which stars Saoirse Ronan as a young woman forced to leave her homeland of 1950s rural Ireland to New York. The movie is definitely an outsider for the Best Picture award, but has already won the Outstanding British Film award at the BAFTAs recently, and has been given strong reviews from critics. DiCaprio is favorite to win the Oscar for Actor in a Leading Role, although Bryan Cranston (Trumbo), Matt Damon (The Martian), as well as Eddie Redmayne (The Danish Girl) have also been nominated and will be hoping to pull out a surprise. Cate Blanchett is one of the favorites to win Best Actress in a Leading Role for her amazing performance in Carol, although Saoirse Ronan and Jennifer Lawrence have also been nominated and could upset the odds. For the Best Director Oscar, Adam McKay (The Big Short), George Miller (Mad Max), Alejandro G. Inarritu (The Revenant), Lenny Abrahamson (Room), and Tom McCarthy (Spotlight) have all received nominations. As well as the main nominees, there are of course a host of other stars who are not up for awards who will be attending the Oscars this year. Some of those also scheduled to be in attendance are Priyanka Chopra, Henry Cavill, Common, Daisy Ridley, Chris Evans, Kerry Washington, Pharrell Williams. The Oscars 2016 Red Carpet event has a scheduled start time of 7 p.m. ET, with the main ceremony having a start time of 8.30 p.m. ET. The awards can be watched on TV on the ABC network, or online through ABC live stream by clicking here. The Red Carpet event can also be watched by clicking here. A list of the nominees can be found below: Best Picture "The Big Short" "Bridge of Spies" "Brooklyn" "Mad Max: Fury Road" "The Martian" "The Revenant" "Room" "Spotlight" Best Director Adam McKay, "The Big Short" George Miller, "Mad Max: Fury Road" Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, "The Revenant" Lenny Abrahamson, "Room" Tom McCarthy, "Spotlight" Best Actor Bryan Cranston, "Trumbo" Matt Damon, "The Martian" Leonardo DiCaprio, "The Revenant" Michael Fassbender, "Steve Jobs" Eddie Redmayne, "The Danish Girl" Best Actress Cate Blanchett, "Carol" Brie Larson, "Room" Jennifer Lawrence, "Joy" Charlotte Rampling, "45 Years" Saoirse Ronan, "Brooklyn" Best Supporting Actor Christian Bale, "The Big Short" Tom Hardy, "The Revenant" Mark Ruffalo, "Spotlight" Mark Rylance, "Bridge of Spies" Sylvester Stallone, "Creed" Best Supporting Actress Jennifer Jason Leigh, "The Hateful Eight" Rooney Mara, "Carol" Rachel McAdams, "Spotlight" Alicia Vikander, "The Danish Girl" Kate Winslet, "Steve Jobs" Best Original Screenplay "Bridge of Spies" "Ex Machina" "Inside Out" "Spotlight" "Straight Outta Compton" Best Adapted Screenplay "The Big Short" "Brooklyn" "Carol" "The Martian" "Room" Best Foreign Film "Embrace of the Serpent" "Mustang" "Son of Saul" "Theeb" "A War" Best Documentary Feature "Amy" "Cartel Land" "The Look of Silence" "What Happened, Miss Simone?" "Winter on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom" Best Animated Feature "Anomalisa" "Boy and the World" "Inside Out" "Shaun the Sheep Movie" "When Marnie Was There" Best Film Editing "The Big Short" "Mad Max: Fury Road" "The Revenant" "Spotlight" "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" Best Song "Fifty Shades of Grey" "Racing Extinction" "Spectre" "The Hunting Ground" "Youth" Best Original Score "Bridge of Spies" "Carol" "The Hateful Eight" "Sicario" "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" Best Digital Effects "Ex Machina" "The Martian" "The Revenant" "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" Best Cinematography "Carol" "The Hateful Eight" "Mad Max: Fury Road" "The Revenant" "Sicario" Best Costume Design "Carol" "Cinderella" "The Danish Girl" "Mad Max: Fury Road" "The Revenant" Best Makeup and Hairstyling "Mad Max: Fury Road" "The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared" "The Revenant" Best Production Design "Bridge of Spies" "The Danish Girl" "Mad Max: Fury Road" "The Martian" "The Revenant" Best Sound Editing "Mad Max: Fury Road" "The Martian" "The Revenant" "Sicario" "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" Best Sound Mixing "Bridge of Spies" "Mad Max: Fury Road" "The Martian" "The Revenant" "Star Wars: The Force Awakens" Best Short Film, Live Action "Ave Maria" "Day One" "Everything Will Be Okay" "Shok" "Stutterer" Best Short Film, Animated "Bear Story" "Prologue" "Sanjay's Super Team" "We Can't Live Without Cosmos" "World of Tomorrow" Best Documentary Short Subject "Body Team 12" "Chau, Beyond the Lines" "Claude Lanzmann" "A Girl in the River" "Last Day of Freedom" Pakistan: Mumtaz Qadri hanged for murder of politician who defended Christians Pakistan today executed the man who murdered governor of Punjab Salman Taseer because he publicly spoke out against the country's blasphemy laws. Mumtaz Qadri fatally shot Taseer near his home in Islamabad in 2011. He was hanged at approximately 4.30am local time on Monday, and street protests broke out hours later. He is considered a hero for defending the faith by some Muslim hardliners. After his arrest, Qadri told police he killed Taseer because the governor had championed the cause of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman sentenced to death in a blasphemy case that arose out of a personal dispute. Taseer had said the law was being misused and should be reformed. Qadri's attorney said his client told him he had no regrets for killing the governor. "I have met him twice in jail. He said that even if Allah gave me 50 million lives, I would still sacrifice all of them," lawyer Ghulam Mustafa Chaudhry said. The head of the Islamabad Bar Council called for a day-long strike of lawyers in protest against the hanging and protesters briefly blocked the main road between Rawalpindi and Islamabad on Monday after news of the execution broke. Police later dispersed them and closed off the road to prevent more demonstrations. Chaudhry predicted larger demonstrations coinciding with Qadri's funeral, which his legal group said would be held on Tuesday. "From what we are seeing, this protest movement is only going to increase," he said. Wilson Chowdhry, Chairman of the British Pakistani Christian Association, today branded Taseer's murder "heinous", and "an act that traumatised Pakistan and brought to light the extent extremism and hatred towards minorities in Pakistan." "The few voices of liberality in Pakistan will have an uphill struggle making the nation one that is egalitarian, yet in the meanwhile western nations including Britain have deduced that Christians in Pakistan rarely face persecution, a judgement that has led to the re-persecution of thousands of Pak-Christians stranded in Thailand," he added. "Pakistan's current government should be commended for their efforts towards upholding justice in this landmark judicial process. Whatever one thinks of death sentences it is the prevailing law in Pakistan and to bring it to fruition in this manner has been a brave decision. The hanging of Mumtaz Qadri illustrates that justice is achievable and that terrorists can no longer hide behind their faith and public support and that former impunity has been terminated." More than 100 people are charged with blasphemy each year in predominantly Muslim Pakistan, which stringently upholds the laws. Those accused of "defiling the Prophet Muhammad" face the death penalty, while life imprisonment is given for damaging the Quran. "Insulting another's religious feelings" can result in up to 10 years in jail. Human rights groups say the blasphemy laws are frequently misused by extremists, however, and false charges brought against minority groups in order to settle personal scores or to seize property or businesses. No one has yet been hanged, but those convicted languish in prison. Controversy over the law has exposed the growing gap between religious conservatives and liberals in Pakistan with hard-line religious leaders considering Taseer a blasphemer himself for even criticising the law. Some lawyers showered Qadri with rose petals when he first arrived in court days after the killing. The judge who first convicted him was forced to flee the country after death threats. Additional reporting by Reuters. Pope Francis calls for Christian unity as ISIS continues 'devastating violence' Pope Francis today lamented the "devastating outbreak of violence against Christians" in the Middle East, but said that Islamist violence is uniting the Church around the world. During a meeting with the Patriarch of the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church, Pope Mathias I, Francis said, "Shared sufferings have enabled Christians, otherwise divided in so many ways, to grow closer to one another." "Just as in the early Church the shedding of the blood of martyrs became the seed of new Christians, so today the blood of the many martyrs of all the Churches has become the seed of Christian unity," he added. "The martyrs and saints of all the ecclesial traditions are already one in Christ. Their names are inscribed in the one martyrologium of the Church of God. The ecumenism of the martyrs is a summons to us, here and now, to advance on the path to ever greater unity." Of the intense persecution faced by Christians and other religious minorities at the hands of ISIS, Pope Francis said: "We cannot fail, yet again, to implore those who govern the world's political and economic life to promote a peaceful coexistence based on reciprocal respect and reconciliation, mutual forgiveness and solidarity." According to a recent report by persecution charity Open Doors, Ethiopia has seen a "sharp rise" in persecution levels in the past year. It currently ranks 18th on the charity's list of the worst countries in which to be a Christian. ISIS last year executed 30 Ethiopian Christians in Libya and released footage of the incident online. A subtitle referred to the victims as "worshippers of the cross belonging to the hostile Ethiopian church". At the time, Mathias branded the murders "repugnant", and said the international community had a "duty to raise our voice to tell the world that the killing of the innocent like animals is completely unacceptable". Pope Francis praises Italy's leading abortion rights proponent, draws flak from church traditionalists, pro-life advocates Pope Francis shocked church traditionalists and pro-life advocates after he recently praised a leading abortion rights advocate and even dubbed her as one of Italy's "forgotten greats.'' The pontiff made the statement during an interview last Feb. 8 with Corriere Della Serra, where he compared former Italian Foreign Minister Emma Bonino to great historical figures such as Konrad Adenauer and Robert Schuman. Pope Francis acknowledged that his statements were "controversial'' but dismissed them, saying, "True, but never mind. We have to look at people, at what they do.'' However, some church officials criticised the pope for issuing such a statement. "How can the pope praise a woman that is best known in Italy for practicing illegal abortion and promoting abortion?" said Msgr. Ignacio Barreiro, who was until last year the head of the Rome office of Human Life International, LifeSite News reported. Luca Volonte, an Italian politician and president of the pro-life Novae Terrae Foundation, also told LifeSite News that he believed the pope "was not really informed about how much Mrs. Bonino has done in Italy and at the international level to promote abortion and euthanasia." Even though he admitted that "she did well in Egypt," Volante said even there "she promoted her anti-life values." "The pope was wrong and worse were the members of his secretariat for not informing him," he said. Bonino has been known for decades as Italy's most outspoken abortion rights activist. At 27, she had an illegal abortion and then worked with the Information Centre on Sterilisation and Abortion which boasted over 10,000 abortions. There are famous photos of Bonino performing illegal abortions using a homemade device operated by a bicycle pump. Arrested for the then-illegal activity, she spent a few days in jail, was acquitted and then entered politics, according to reports. In 2013 when was she was appointed Italy's foreign minister, there was reportedly a general outcry from life and family leaders at the ''appalling situation.'' 'Risen' star Joseph Fiennes happy the film doesn't feature Caucasian Jesus Christ Hollywood has often been criticised for the lack of diversity found in movie castings. This is why "Risen" star Joseph Fiennes is extremely proud that the faith-based film did not go the traditional route and cast a Caucasian Jesus Christ. The role of Jesus went to 47-year-old New Zealand actor Cliff Curtis. "No, he's not Caucasian. I mean, there's such a furore with the Oscars and I'm not going to wade into any of that but just in terms of casting, yes this is a big step forward just in terms of getting the casting right and moving away from the golden, blue-eyed boy and delivering the right type of casting," Fiennes told Metro. "It's brilliant. I'm really proud of that." Curtis, who has played villains in movies such as "Live Free or Die Hard" and "The Last Airbender," was surprised when the role was first offered to him, given his age and skin complexion. "Jesus was crucified by age 33 and I'm in my late 40s. And when you look at my work, what makes you think that I'm right for this role," he said, according to Scout. "It was a miracle! I just thought I wasn't fair complexioned enough to get the role and I needed blue eyes." It was a role that Curtis used to dream of portraying since he grew up a deeply religious man. "I was a devout Catholic as a child and I was an altar boy and served mass and I did the whole thing and had the crucifix next to my bed, everything," he shared. "So when I became an actor and the question would arise, 'What roles do you want to play?' I'd say, 'Jesus', and it had become a running joke." In the film, Fiennes plays Roman soldier Clavius, who has been ordered to disprove that Jesus Christ rose from the dead after three days. "Harry Potter" alum Tom Felton plays his aide Lucius. Saudi Arabia: Atheist tweeter sentenced to 2,000 lashes for 'denying the existence of God' An atheist man has been sentenced to 10 years in jail and 2,000 lashes in Saudi Arabia for posting about his beliefs on Twitter. According to AP, the 28-year-old admitted to being an atheist after Saudi religious police found he had posted more than 600 tweets "denying the existence of God, ridiculing the Quranic verses, accusing all prophets of lies and saying their teaching fuelled hostilities". He reportedly refused to apologise, saying he had the right to express his beliefs. A court has now handed him a fine of 20,000 riyals, just less than 4,000, in addition to the lashes and jail time. Islam is the state religion of Saudi Arabia. The legal system is based on Shariah law, and courts regularly impose severe physical punishments, including the death penalty, for apostasy. A law enacted in 2014 equates atheism with terrorism. The legislation banned "calling for atheist thought in any form, or calling into question the fundamentals of Islamic religion." Saudi blogger Raif Badawi was sentenced in 2013 to seven years in prison and 600 lashes over accusations he insulted Islam. His sentence was later increased to 10 years in prison, 1,000 lashes and a fine. The first 50 lashes were administered on January 9 last year, and his second flogging has been postponed more than a dozen times. Amnesty International, which is campaigning for Badawi's release, has condemned Saudi Arabia as having "one of the worst human rights records in the world". "Corporal punishment like flogging... is a cruel, inhuman and degrading punishment that has no place in the justice system," Amnesty said. #StopTrump is the easy, liberal consensus. And it's not good enough President Trump. It is happening. Or rather, it may happen. And that is bad. That seems to summarise the majority of some recent rather banal political commentary surrounding the Republican frontrunner. A host of publications have run pieces which essentially explain Donald Trump is doing surprisingly well in the polls and what a dangerous thing that is. The problem is, for anyone who even vaguely follows politics or American current affairs, we knew that more than six months ago. This week's Economist ran the revolutionary leader, "Donald Trump is unfit to lead a great political party". Similarly The Washington Post published an article with the headline 'Donald Trump isn't funny any more, and we all have to stop him.' Again The Telegraph has a piece, 'Can anyone stop Donald Trump?' and over 8,000 have liked the 'Stop Donald Trump' Facebook page. In essence these arguments draw out some of the absurd comments made by the billionaire New Yorker and says how bad they are. That is not hard to do. A quick Google search highlights some of the Trump-classics that have become familiar: Mexicans are rapists, torture is brilliant, water-boarding is too soft, Muslims should be banned from America and walls are the future. It is not novel to say this man is totally incapable of becoming the leader of the free world. But surely we can think of something more interesting to say than that. A far more poignant discussion is why so many people are voting for him. A RealClear Politics average across the polls has Trump 13 points clear of Ted Cruz and 17 points clear of Marco Rubio. All this goes to show that a lot of people support Donald J Trump. As in a lot. Thousands and thousands have turned out to support his campaign to "make America great again". From the cosy liberal consensus of the UK it is easy to dismiss these supporters as red-neck loons not to be taken seriously. But the figures bely a different, rather more uncomfortable reality. Sheer numbers demonstrate that a majority of Trump supporters will be compassionate, honourable, thoughtful people. The scale of his support means among them will be people who if you met them in the street you would consider perfectly pleasant. They will be teachers, doctors, preachers and (largely) upstanding members of American society. So what makes these respectable people vote for an abhorrent man like Trump? The answer to that lies in the strength of non-political feeling that runs throughout the US. The same thing can be seen to a lesser extent on the other end of the political spectrum in Bernie Sanders. An atheist and a socialist, he is defying all the "rules" of American politics to put up a reasonable, if not spectacular, challenge to the establishment choice of Hillary Clinton. Such is the fear and dissatisfaction among Americans that perfectly pleasant people feel their only option is to vote for a populist such as Trump. People are not stupid, they are frustrated. He alone offers assurance and comfort. He alone gives thoroughly disillusioned people hope. He alone manages to offer solutions to base concerns such as security and prosperity. Some real soul-searching among American politicians needs to be done to understand how we have arrived at this stage. Why do people feel so disillusioned? Why are people so fearful? What are the mistakes of the past that have landed us at this point? The uncomfortable reality of democracy is that people don't vote as they are "supposed to". They vote how they want to. It is not that people are conned into voting for Trump. They want to. So we can't just say Donald Trump must be stopped. We need to go further and look at why the mainstream political debate has failed and be honest about mistakes. What drives good, normal people to do this? We would do well to begin answering this questions and in that lies the answer to stopping Donald J Trump, or any future reincarnation, from ever getting close to the American presidency. Sunday trading campaign dealt a blow after SNP withdraws opposition Liberalisation of Sunday trading laws is set to pass as the Scottish National Party withdrew their opposition after a "dirty deal" with the Conservative government. The changes would allow local authorities to remove current limits on opening hours for large stores on a Sunday, making it like any other day of the week. The proposals have faced sustained opposition from Christian groups, unions and a coalition of organisations under the Keep Sunday Special campaign. They were initially withdrawn in November after 20 rebel Tories, led by Christian MP David Burrowes, joined with Labour and SNP MPs to oppose the government. However the changes, which are the biggest to Sunday trading laws in over 20 years, were re-introduced early in 2016, prompting rumours of a SNP-Tory alliance. It has emerged over the weekend the SNP has dropped their opposition, with Labour's Angela Eagle accusing them of a "dirty deal" to get more powers for Scotland. "It's hard to avoid the suspicion that the SNP have not been playing their own games and doing a dirty deal with the Tory government to get what they wanted on the fiscal framework in return for throwing the shop-workers to the wolves," said the shadow business secretary. Without the SNP's backing, an amendment to the Enterprise Bill which would remove the Sunday trading changes will almost certainly fail. When the proposals were first tabled in November, the SNP's Westminster leader Angus Robertson said "this legislation will impact on workers in Scotland and elsewhere in the UK and no pay safeguards have been offered by the Westminster government. "The SNP will continue to work with the representatives of shop workers and we will oppose the Tory proposals," he continued. The SNP's initial opposition was thought to be based on research showing Scottish shop workers would lose up to 1,400 per year under the change. Although no pay safeguards have been introduced, Hannah Bardell MP, SNP business spokesperson, hinted their position has changed. "As is well known we have had Sunday Trading in Scotland for some time and the SNP have never been opposed to the principle of Sunday Trading," she said. "However, our initial concern and opposition was primarily around the potential knock on impact to Scottish workers of any changes in England & Wales to Sunday Trading. "The SNP welcome the provision for additional employee protections that the UK Government has brought forward in new schedule 1 of the Enterprise Bill; which amends the Employment Rights Act to, amongst other provisions, protect any worker from being forced into working on a Sunday. "Without the strong and principled action of the SNP, such protections may never have materialised. On behalf of the SNP I have met with and engaged with a wide range of interested stakeholders in recent weeks and will continue to do so in the run up to report stage of the Bill before we reach a final position." David Burrowes, who has led the Tory rebellion against the changes said the apparent concessions to the bill "still don't negate widespread concerns". "If they [the SNP] are consistent with what they said in November, they will [oppose it]. What happens south of the border will also happen north," he said in the Times. The blow to the Keep Sunday Special campaign was dealt after senior Roman Catholic, Church of England, Church in Wales, Methodist, United Reform Church and Salvation Army figures issued a joint statement opposing the plans. They warned of the "commodification" of modern life in a letter to The Telegraph. "We are concerned that the further deregulation of Sunday Trading laws is likely to disrupt the rhythms of community life that are so integral to the common good," the letter wrote. "In a world of increasing commodification the space for shared time and activities, central to human flourishing, is becoming increasingly rare. Needlessly extending Sunday opening hours will only exacerbate this trend." The letter argues the current compromise reached in the 1990s offer "a balance" and there is "no evidence base" to show the changes will lead to "substantial economic benefit". However the business secretary, Sajid Javid, has said relaxing the restrictions would enable local areas to help "struggling high streets". Tear gas, rubber bullets and water cannons: Clashes break out as Calais Jungle demolition begins Violent clashes broke out in the refugee camp outside Calais today, as French authorities began to demolish the southern part of the so-called 'Jungle'. Charities working in the camp have reported a heavy police presence armed with rubber bullets. Help Refugees UK said teams were dismantling shelters using crowbars, mallets and Stanley knives, and shared a video showing tear gas being used against people trying to stop the demolition. "This is shocking and a long way away from the humanitarian dismantling of the camp promised by the Minister of the Interior last week," the charity said. Another video posted to Facebook showed a water cannon being used by French police. Reuters reports that tear gas was fired by police around midday and between 150-200 activists and migrants threw stones. Three shelters were reportedly set on fire, while one person has been arrested for trying to stop workers from clearing the site. A court in Lille ruled last Thursday that the Calais prefecture could legally demolish a large part of the Jungle, and evict its inhabitants, believed to include more than 3,400 refugees and migrants. It did, however, stipulate that "common social areas" understood to include a church, several mosques and schools, a women and children's centre and a library would not be destroyed. Interior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve said displaced persons would be relocated to converted shipping containers in the northern part of the Jungle, or to a number of other refugee centres around France. Campaigners, however, say this is a poor alternative to the Jungle, where inhabitants have set up shops, restaurants and cafes. There are particular concerns for unaccompanied minors, more than 300 of whom live in the southern part of the camp. Charity CalAid said it was "appalled and saddened" by the demolitions carried out today. "French demolition teams are in the Southern section of the camp ripping apart shelters and moving residents out of the camp," it said in a post to its Facebook page. "Rubber bullets and tear gas for the people, mallets and Stanley knives for their homes. Volunteers being prevented from entering the camp. Refugees hitting the road with nothing but a sleeping bag. "French Minister of the Interior, Bernard Cazenove [sic], promised 'humanitarian' methods of relocating the residents of the camp there is nothing humanitarian in the actions of the authorities today." Why Christianity and astrology don't mix A YouGov poll has found more than half of people in the UK (56 per cent) definitely don't believe astrology works. Only four per cent definitely believe it does; 27 per cent think it might, and 13 per cent don't know. The idea our fate is foretold by what the heavenly bodies are doing has been around for millenia. Stonehenge was built along axes of astrological significance. The Magi who followed the star to Bethlehem were probably astrologers. Western astrology in its popular 'sun sign' form is a staple of tabloid newspapers; I looked up mine in one of them out of curiosity. "Someone you have fallen out with will offer an olive branch," it said. It's the middle of the afternoon and I'm still waiting. "Water flowing under the bridge will wash an old quarrel away." Not sure how that works. "Stop worrying about whether you will be able to give a partner everlasting happiness." That ship has sailed. Most Christians would be glad to hear only four per cent of the population believe things like this. We'd want to encourage people to trust in God, rather than in things that have no basis in truth at all. Astrology let's be clear about this doesn't work. But while nowadays most Christians would set their face firmly against astrology, this hasn't always been the case. For much of Christian history it's been accepted as a form of science, not at all in conflict with Christian doctrine. Shakespeare is full of astrological references Romeo and Juliet are a "pair of star-crossed lovers"; Cassius says in Julius Caesar, "The fault, dear Brutus, is not in our stars,/ But in ourselves, that we are underlings." One of Elizabeth I's advisers, Dr John Dee, was a famous astrologer. This is because in its purer form, astrology is a very complex discipline involving very complicated calculations related to the position of the stars and planets and a person's exact birth date. It claims to work because everything in the universe is organically connected, so it's possible to work out someone's character and the general course of their life. It wasn't seen as un-Christian because God had made the whole universe, and what could be more likely than that everything fitted together in a miraculous whole? The writer and theologian CS Lewis was fascinated by it; Michael Ward's book Planet Narnia claimed he used the seven planets of mediaeval astrologers as themes for his Narnia books. Nowadays, astrology's been comprehensively debunked as a pseudo-science, and Christians generally are the quickest to dismiss it. On the other hand... astrology was so popular because it brings a sort of scientific rationale to bear on something we're all vulnerable to: a desire to know more about our own character and destiny. We really, really like knowing about ourselves. And in modern times, there are plenty of other candidates to fill the gap. Social media are awash with personality charts and brain tests. One of the most popular is the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI), used by everyone from casual Facebook browsers to proper companies wanting to assess prospective employees. Others purport to define you according to whether you're 'left-brain' or 'right-brain' dominated, more logical and rational or more creative and emotional. Do they actually work? Unfortunately, there's not much evidence they do. In an article for Psychology Today, Adam Grant points out all sorts of problems with MBTI. Referring to its four personality categories, he says: "In social science, we use four standards: are the categories reliable, valid, independent, and comprehensive? For the MBTI, the evidence says not very, no, no, and not really." He concludes that "we all need to recognise that four letters don't do justice to anyone's identity". What about the left brain/right brain division? A BBC blog entitled What does a scientist think of "right brain/left brain" tests? quotes Jeffrey Anderson, a brain researcher at the University of Utah: "The pop culture idea (creative vs. logical traits) has no support in the neuroscience community and flies in the face of decades of research about brain organisation, the functional roles of the two brain hemispheres and evidence from patients with lesions in one or the other hemisphere in the brain." The challenge is this: Christians are just as fascinated by these new pseudo-sciences as anyone else. So in rejecting astrology, have we fallen victim to new ways of explaining ourselves to ourselves? And if we have, what are the dangers we face? Here's one. Belief in astrology shifts responsibility on to external forces. It implicitly blames the stars for our sins and failures rather than ourselves. Why are we so keen to find out which personality type we are? Is it because we can blame our brain chemistry for the things we do wrong rather than natural human sinfulness? There's nothing wrong with trying to know ourselves better. But for Christians, that involves bringing every part of ourselves under the lordship of Christ. The problem with ancient astrology and modern personality tests is that they tell us what we want to hear. Discipleship is about aknowledging what we don't want to hear. Follow Mark Woods on Twitter: @RevMarkWoods Woman arrested in Moscow after shouting 'Allahu Akbar' and carrying child's severed head A woman has been charged with murder in Russia after brandishing a severed child's head in public, stirring fears of an Islamist terrorist attack. The woman, believed to be the victim's nanny and dressed in a hijab, was shown in footage published by online news portal Lifenews.ru on Monday holding the infant's head in her hands. She is wrestled to the ground by a police officer. The portal said the woman shouted that she had killed the child. With frequent warnings from government officials about the danger that Islamic State militants pose to Russia and a long history of terrorist attacks in Moscow, some onlookers thought they were witnessing an act of terror. One reporter, from the RBC daily, said she had heard the woman screaming "Allahu Akbar" (God is Great). "I was on my way to the metro station from home," Polina Nikolskaya, the reporter, told Reuters. "She was standing near the metro entrance and caught my attention because she was screaming Allahu Akbar. I saw that she had a bloodied head in her arms, but I thought it was not real. People in the crowd said it was real." In other footage of the scene, the woman can be heard shouting about the end of the world while proclaiming herself a terrorist. She reportedly also shouted "I want your death" and threatened to blow herself up. She has been named by Russian media as Gyulchekhra Bobokulova, from the former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan, the BBC reports. Officials have not yet identified the suspect, however. Investigators said the child was three or four years old and that the nanny had killed the child in the family's Moscow flat before setting fire to the premises and fleeing. The motive for the crime was unknown, they said, and the woman was undergoing psychiatric testing to see if she was mentally sound. Russian news agencies cited an unnamed police source as saying the woman appeared to have been under the influence of psychotropic drugs. Additional reporting by Reuters. The Gaylord Texan Grapevine Resort was king of Texas hotels last year, with $89.1 million in room sales, according to state data. The highest-ranked local hotel was the 1,002-room JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa, which was in third place with $63 million. In second place was the 1,012-room JW Marriott Austin Downtown, which was handicapped because it didnt open until February of last year. The Hilton Anatole Hotel was in fourth with $62.8 million, followed by the Hilton Americas Houston, with almost $61 million. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate LOS ANGELES George Kennedy, the hulking, tough-guy character actor who won an Academy Award for his portrayal of a savage chain-gang convict in the 1960s classic "Cool Hand Luke," has died. His grandson Cory Schenkel says Kennedy died on Sunday morning of old age in Boise, Idaho. He was 91. He had undergone emergency triple bypass surgery in 2002. That same year, he and his late wife moved to Idaho to be closer to their daughter and her family, though he still was involved in occasional film projects. His biggest acting achievement came in "Cool Hand Luke," a 1967 film about a rebellious war hero played by Paul Newman who is bent on bucking the system as a prisoner on a Southern chain gang. Its theme of rebelling against authority and the establishment helped make it one of the most important films of the tumultuous 1960s. Kennedy played the role of Dragline, the chain-gang boss who goes from Luke's No. 1 nemesis to his biggest disciple as Newman's character takes on folk hero status among fellow inmates. The movie garnered four Academy Award nominations, and Kennedy was named best supporting actor. Newman and Kennedy provided a spectacular one-two punch Luke as the reticent anti-hero, Dragline as an illiterate brute. They shared several memorable scenes, including one in which Kennedy's character wins a bet by getting Luke to eat 50 eggs in an hour. After the critical and commercial success of "Cool Hand Luke," Kennedy carved out a niche as one of Hollywood's most recognizable supporting actors. He had parts in several action flicks in the 1970s, played Leslie Nielsen's sidekick in the "Naked Gun" spoofs and was J.R. Ewing's business rival in the final seasons of "Dallas." One of his strongest supporting roles was in the hit 1970 film "Airport," which spurred the run of 1970s disaster pictures. Kennedy played Joe Patroni, a no-nonsense, cigar-chomping troubleshooter who stubbornly guides a jetliner stuck on a snow-clogged runway out of harm's way. The film spawned several sequels (Kennedy was in all of them) and landed Kennedy a Golden Globe nomination. Kennedy said his acting ambitions were cemented when he was a young child. "I remember listening to a radio program when I was young and it made me feel good and I remember telling my mom that I wanted to make people feel the way this radio program made me feel," Kennedy said in 1995. "I got some great breaks, and I wound up being an actor." His film career began to take flight in the early 1960s. He starred in 1963's "Charade," a whodunit that features Kennedy, Cary Grant, James Coburn and Walter Matthau seeking out the $250,000 they suspect was left behind by Audrey Hepburn's dead husband. His other acting credits in the 1960s included "The Dirty Dozen" and "Guns of the Magnificent Seven." Kennedy once called "Charade" the favorite movie in which he appeared. "It had Cary Grant, Audrey Hepburn, music by Henry Mancini; it was shot entirely in Paris," he said in 1995. "I have nothing but wonderful memories." Kennedy became regular face in action movies in the 1970s after the success of "Airport," including "Earthquake" and "Death on the Nile." He made several film and television appearances in the early and mid-1980s, but few were successful. He turned to comedic roles in the 1980s and 1990s, the most memorable being the three "Naked Gun" films. Among his later credits was a small role in Wim Wenders' 2005 film, "Don't Come Knocking." Kennedy's last on-screen role was in the 2014 remake of "The Gambler," which starred Mark Wahlberg. Kennedy was born in New York in 1925. He started acting at the age of 2 when he joined a touring company production of "Bringing up Father." Five years later, he became a disc jockey with a kids radio show. He enlisted in the Army at 17 and served in World War II, opening the first Army Information Office that provided technical assistance to films and TV shows. Kennedy spent 16 years in the Army and left as a captain. After his Army stint, Kennedy made his television debut in "The Phil Silvers Show" in 1955 and had a variety of guest appearances in the Westerns "Have Gun, Will Travel," ''Cheyenne" and "Gunsmoke." Kennedy, an avid reader, also dabbled in writing and published a couple of murder mysteries. Schenkel remembered sitting in on an autograph session in London with his grandfather. "I sat behind him for hours that day watching the hundreds of fans in line waiting to meet my grandpa," Schenkel recalled. "At the end of the day we sat in our hotel room eating room service and he said to me, 'Seeing all those people I was able to bring a little enjoyment and happiness into their life That is why I did it.'" In later years, Kennedy became an advocate for adopted children. He had four adopted children, including his granddaughter Taylor, whose mother, also adopted by Kennedy, had become addicted to drugs and alcohol. "Don't let the fact that you're 77 or 70 get in your way. Don't let the fact that you're a single parent and you want to adopt get in your way," Kennedy said in a Fox interview in 2002. "That kid, some place right now, cold and wet, needs somebody to say, "I love you, kid, good night.'" Associated Press writer Josh Hoffner contributed to this report. Click through the gallery above to see Kennedy through the years. A driver led police on a high-speed chase Monday morning along freeways toward Pasadena. The incident began about 11:10 a.m. at 13400 Market Street near Miles Street, according to the Houston Police Department. The chase ended about20 minutes later at the South Loop U-turn lane near Clinton. No injuries were reported. Police said a patrol officer had initiated an investigation when the driver sped away. Officers followed the car. Initial information from police scanners indicated the driver of a green Mercedes headed outbound on the East Freeway and then entered the 610 South Loop. Then the driver turned onto the La Porte Freeway headed eastbound into Pasadena. At times, according to scanner reports, the suspect reached speeds of about 140 mph, though police could not confirm those reports. Police said the car stopped along the South Loop near Clinton, where four suspects jumped out and ran away. Two of them were quickly taken into custody. The other two so far have eluded capture. No description of them was available. It was not known what led to the initial investigation of the vehicle. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate According to National Park Service data, Big Bend National Park saw a 21 percent increase in visitors between 2014 and 2015. Author and park expert Ron Lizzi compared the 2014 data with the recent data for the last year to make a list of the top 59 national parks for his official website. Big Bend lands at No. 41 on his list of 59 parks. Guadalupe Mountains National Park, ranked 48th, only had an increase of 1.6 percent between 2014 and 2015. Big Bend appears to have had a surge of popularity in 2015, with an extra 67,645 people coming to visit the sprawling park. Overall 381,747 came by to take in the sights. The top five parks in the parks system are the Great Smoky Mountains, the Grand Canyon, the Rocky Mountains, Yosemite, and Yellowstone National Park. RELATED: 16 cool things you probably didn't know about Big Bend National Park According to Lizzis data crunch, Joshua Tree National Park saw a 27.4 percent increase, with an extra 435,852 visitors coming to the California outpost. A total of 2,025,756 visitors came to see where the high Mojave and the low Colorado deserts rub shoulders. Big Bend is nothing to sneeze at. Its bigger than one of the oldest states in the union. Big Bend National Park spans 1,252 square miles, which couldn't even fit inside Rhode Island (1,212 square miles). It remains one of the jewels of the national system, but it also happens to be one of the least-visited. Its one of 13 national parks in Texas. According these new numbers it appears more people are discovering Big Bend. My trip to Big Bend was particularly memorable because, on the drive in, I saw the Milky Way for the first time in my life, a wonderful experience. The night sky there is fantastic, certainly one the parks best features, Lizzi says. RELATED: Big Bend well worth the drive west The park comes with its own natural Jacuzzi, known as Langford Hot Springs, that stays at about 105 degrees Fahrenheit. The park is also home to more tropical species of butterflies than any other national park. The five-mile Lost Mine Trail hike is a popular one because it offers up views of the best of the park. Big Bend offers up the kinds of views that attract visitors from all over the world. Its not just Texans and Americans that come to play in the park. According to the National Park Service, there are believed to be nearly 26,000 archaeological sites inside the park, located in Brewster County. They ask that if you come across an artifact or site that you report it to a park employee if it hasnt otherwise been noted. Its thought that people have called the park area home going back at least 10,000 years. The Montgomery County Precinct 4 Constable's office said that two people have been arrested and face felony charges arising from an investigation of a stolen vehicle. Authorities gave this account in a news release: At around 4 a.m. Saturday, a deputy constable located a stolen vehicle in the parking lot of the Palace Inn on Texas 59 in Porter. An investigation identified a female motel guest as a possible driver, but when deputies investigated, a male guest said there was not a woman in the room. He agreed to let the room be searched, though, and deputies found a woman hiding under a mattress. The woman, 35-year-old Shavon Peterson, was taken into custody on a felony arrest warrant. Authorities said further investigation revealed that the man had given a fake name and was 45-year-old Mark Parkerson, who had an outstanding warrant from Orange County. He was arrested on a charge of hindering the apprehension of a known felon. At the jail, Parkerson reportedly told authorities that he had a medical condition, and he was transported to Kingwood Hospital, where medics advised that he should remain overnight. He was released from custody so as not to tie up a deputy all night, but fled the hospital a few hours later. "It was then found that this is a typical M/O for Parkerson," the news release said. A search for Parkerson led authorities back to the Palace Inn around 5 p.m., but when deputies approached, the suspect fled on foot. He was found hiding in a large planter container at a mosque. When deputies tried to take him into custody, he escaped again -- running by foot through open land, swimming across a large pond and then entering woods. Deputies were then able to arrest him. Online court records show Parkerson, of Nederland, was being held on $25,000 bond on charges of hindering the prosecution and apprehension of a known felon; evading arrest and detention; and failure to give information. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner called on his former colleagues in the Legislature to reform the public-school funding system as the city's largest district estimates having to forfeit $161 million to the state. The Houston Independent School District expects for the first time next year to owe money under the state's Robin Hood model, which requires property-rich systems to share their wealth to help property-poor ones. State lawmakers typically revise the formula to keep HISD from owing money, but they did not go far enough in 2015, given the city's rising property values. HISD leaders argue that although the district has property wealth, most of the students are low-income. The future of Texas: The best public high schools in Texas honored Turner, former vice chairman of the House Appropriations Committee, issued a statement Friday describing the state's school-finance system as "broken." He noted that a state district court judge last year ruled the overall system unconstitutional. The Texas Supreme Court is weighing an appeal by the state. "Dramatic demographic and economic changes in the current student population demand reasonable and timely reform to the State's school finance system," Turner, a Democrat, said in the statement. "Principals at our local schools should not be forced to balance their budgets on the backs of our most precious resource, children." Private vs. public: The best private high schools in Houston ranked The Legislature is not set to reconvene until January 2017, though special sessions can be called. The HISD board plans to vote on its budget for the 2016-17 academic year in June. Under the proposal presented in February, the district would cut roughly 5 percent of its $1.9 billion operating budget. Deputy Superintendent Huewitt said an unknown number of positions some vacant likely would be cut. The plan also calls for cutting funding to all schools by $179 per pupil and reducing allocations for gifted students. Children of the future: Best schools for students who want to change the world "Houston needs an educated and empowered workforce for a prosperous future," Turner said. "Do we invest now or pay later? Will Houston remain the City of the Future or be a modern example of A Tale of Two Cities. We are far too wise to choose the latter, but this crisis is present and cannot be ignored or delayed any longer." The kingpin of an international sex trafficking operation had a window of opportunity Monday morning to chip some time off his impending prison term. The federal judge in Houston presiding over the case of 51-year-old Gerardo "El Gallo" Salazar said he blew it. Shackled in his orange prison jumpsuit, he spoke in a soft voice, his head bowed, apologizing to U.S. District Judge Vanessa Gilmore and to Jesus Christ, asking the judge through a translator, "Please understand that with all due respect I am a victim too." Gilmore said he didn't owe her an apology, but he did owe one to the girls he "traumatized and victimized." He quibbled over the details of his guilty plea, saying repeatedly that he didn't harm anyone, but if he did he asked for God's forgiveness and the girls' as well. EXPLAINED: What you need to know about sex, human trafficking in Houston "He has learned nothing from this experience," Gilmore said, raising her voice. "He victimized women, and he doesn't care. He hasn't learned a thing." She emphasized that these were young girls who did not consent to any of the acts they were forced into. She sentenced Salazar to the highest possible sentence, 40 years in prison, meaning he could qualify to be free on three years' supervised release at the age of 91. Salazar pleaded guilty to four counts of harboring immigrants for prostitution. The victims, who came from poor villages in Central Mexico, were held en masse in an apartment and transported to various brothels where each victim was forced to have sex with multiple patrons per night. "El Gallo," whose nickname evokes the macho dominance of a farmyard fowl, had roosters tattooed on the bodies of some of the girls he romanced and then coerced into prostitution in nightclubs and cantinas around Houston. Witnesses told federal investigators he threatened to shoot them in the spine, so they'd have to drag themselves around for the rest of their days if they tried to escape. They said he told them he would kill their family members if they spoke about it. RELATED: Notorious brothel madam gets life in sex-trafficking case Salazar was extradited from Mexico in 2014, after escaping capture in a 2005 sting. "He didn't ask for mercy for his victims, he asked for mercy for himself," said Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruben Perez, who worked for years with Mexican law enforcement to facilitate Salazar's extradition. "He brought these girls over here in search of the American dream, that's what his promise was," Perez said. "Once they got here, they ran smack into the American nightmare." "Making a Murderer" didn't come across as a surefire television hit, which is why the 10-part true crime documentary series screened on Netflix. Viewership figures can only be guessed at, but the series has resonated greatly and found its way into a large cultural conversation about crime and our justice system. The series follows the wrongful conviction an incarceration of Steven Avery, a Wisconsin man, for a rape. Following his exoneration, Avery was arrested on murder charges. Further description would offer unwelcome spoilers. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Austin Mayor Steve Adler declared war Saturday on San Antonio over a critical issue breakfast tacos. The feud has been on the front burner since some dude from New York, who obviously has no place commenting on the subject matter, erroneously declared Austin home of the best breakfast taco. San Antonio replied in kind with a change.org petition, and then the politicos got involved. READ MORE: San Antonio petition demands Austin to exile writer who thinks they're the taco birthplace Earlier in the week, Mayor Ivy Taylor tweeted that even a native New Yorker like herself knows that San Antonio is the mecca of the breakfast taco, and invited Adler to join her for some of San Antonios finest. Joining the fray was District 9 Councilman Joe Krier, who penned an op-ed for the Austin American-Statesman on Friday. Adlers declaration of war came Saturday. READ MORE: Austin mayor declares 'breakfast taco war' on San Antonio during community service event And Taylors response late Saturday? Challenge accepted. "OK, Mayor Adler and all you longhorn-loving, live-music-listening, boardwalk-running Austinites, I and all the taco-making, taco-eating, taco-reigning San Antonians will take your challenge and raise you one machacado con huevo taco on a flour tortilla recien hecha (freshly made) con salsa verde. #original512," Taylor said. "Let's finally end this taco-versy with a taste-off. I'll bring some of our favorite tacos and you bring yours." Taylor said she is willing to meet Mayor Adler half way. RELATED: 10 reasons to hate Austin beyond its breakfast taco arrogance Krier, too, suggested that local leaders from the two cities collect their best tacos and meet in a neutral convention center. Maybe the one in New Braunfels, though Krier suspects that Adler will suggest San Marcos. Adler and Krier happen to know each other well. Theyve met often, though never over breakfast, to discuss a proposed high-speed rail line between Austin and San Antonio, and the possibility of a regional airport. Hes a good guy, Krier said. Hes a great leader for Austin. I think hes just misguided in his assessment of whos got the better breakfast tacos. READ MORE: Who invented breakfast tacos? 'NOT AUSTIN,' new website says Krier spends a lot of time in Austin, and he prefers tacos made in the Alamo City. Every Thursday, before taking up city business at council meetings, he dines on chorizo-and-egg from Poblanos, next to Municipal Plaza. Regardless of where the challenge occurs, there will have to be ground rules, such as what can go inside the tortillas? Kriers a fan of traditional chorizo-and-egg on flour. Hes good, too, with bacon and egg, though he deems those non-purist. I suspect we may need to appoint some neutral mediators for the categories, and then well have to pick neutral judges. That could easily get sticky. But the starting ground rule should be clear and simple: No New Yorkers need apply. jbaugh@express-news.net Sheriffs deputies in West Texas' Brewster County busted a couple with a load of drugs, scales and a pink gun during a routine traffic stop last week. According to the Sheriffs Office, Deputy Michael Jurado pulled over Krista N. Lujan, 36, and John Danile Hernandez, 22, for a traffic violation on Feb. 25 in the large county that includes part of Big Bend National Park and an international border with Mexico. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate A new CNN/ORC poll shows billionaire mogul Donald Trump with more support than his four Republican rivals combined the widest lead yet reported for the unconventional candidate who has held the race's front-runner spot since he entered in July. To reach those numbers, pollsters contacted 427 registered voters between Feb. 24 and 27. Figures have a five point margin of error. The new poll also shows Florida Sen. Marco Rubio barely edging past Texas Sen. Ted Cruz for the second-place slot, which Cruz has held in most recent national polls. RELATED: In final appeal, Cruz calls himself GOP's only alternative to Trump CNN reported 49 percent support for Trump, 16 percent for Rubio, 15 percent for Cruz, 10 percent for Ben Carson and 6 percent for John Kasich. In the Democratic race, Hillary Clinton held a 17 point lead over her rival Sen. Bernie Sanders. The many voter polls released this cycle vary greatly from one to another and rely on relatively small sample sizes. According to an average of dozens of national polls by Real Clear Politics, Trump leads the GOP pack by almost 16 points, and Clinton tops Sanders by 7.5. The 33-point lead attributed to Trump in the new CNN poll is the widest yet identified since he entered the race. CNN also found vastly higher score of enthusiasm and certainly among Trump supporters than among supporters of his rivals. RELATED: Cruz faces do or die in Texas Voters from a dozen states will weigh in on Super Tuesday, which several candidates have called the most important day of this primary election. A poor showing could push Cruz or Rubio from the race, while Trump could gain critical momentum if his voter support matches polls. AUSTIN -- The South by Southwest conference crowds are about to grow by one: President Obama. Officials with the Democratic National Committee said Obama will attend a party fundraiser at the Austin Music Hall on March 11, the first day of the music, film and interactive conference that attracts tens of thousands of people from around the world to Texas' capital city. The party Web site describes the event a chance for Obama to highlight his vision for "an economy that lasts, an economy that lifts up all Americans" -- part of the party's continuing initiative to "advance issues like job creation, education, health care, and clean energy." For SXSW attendees who think the admission fees for that conference are expensive, Obama's appearance will be much more pricey. Tickets for the event are $250 and, if you want a picture with the President, the cost is $10,000, according to the sponsors. For $30,000 you can be a co-host. Obama has visited Austin six time in recent years, both as a candidate and as president -- the last time was in August 2014 where he spoke at the Paramount Theatre on the economy and became one of the few people to cut in line at Franklin's Barbecue, a famous eastside restaurant. "The President says he has a special place for Austin in heart," Vincent Harding, chair of the Travis County Democratic Party told KEYE, the CBS affiliate in Austin. "Every time he comes, he talks about the rally that was held at Auditorium Shores in 2007 where over 20,000 people showed up. It was at that place that Obama said he knew that he would be president." Stumping for Hillary in Houston on Monday, former president Bill Clinton cast his wife as a multi-faceted candidate prepared to break down a series of barriers. The former secretary of state approaches Texas the biggest Super Tuesday prize with the wind at her back, having won South Carolina's Democratic primary on Saturday by more than 47 percentage points. Hillary Clinton has been favored by a wide margin in the Lone Star State leading Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders in recent polls by an average of 28 percentage points, according to Real Clear Politics and has sought to solidify that advantage in recent weeks. "When the Republicans say, 'We'll make America great again,' she says, 'I don't think we ever stopped being great.' But we do need to be made whole again so we can all rise together." Bill Clinton told a crowd of a few hundred gathered at Houston's Buffalo Soldiers National Museum early Monday. "Some people want to build walls. She wants to tear down barriers and build ladders of opportunity." Bill Clinton swung through Texas last week, speaking in Laredo and Dallas, on the heels of Hillary's rally in Houston nine days ago. "Not all of the barriers we have to tear down are economic," Clinton said in a nod to Sanders' rhetoric focused on reforming Wall Street and ridding politics of big money. The former president went on to discuss a range of topics in a 17-minute speech, including clean energy, gun safety, college affordability and national security. "We need to have a commander in chief that is committed to a strong military, a tough defense and also ... able to build bridges," Clinton said. "She's the only person who's actually done this work for years and years and years." A University of Texas poll out last week showed Hillary Clinton ahead by a narrower 10 percentage points, leading Sanders by 43 percentage points among black voters and 23 percentage points among Hispanic voters. Sanders held an 11 percentage point lead among white voters in the Lone Star State. "I think she has experience. I think she has the passion, and the other thing for me that's important is, she's not afraid to step out there and take a chance to do what she believes is right," D.Z. Cofield, senior pastor at Houston's Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, said while waiting on line outside the museum. "She's not afraid to fight against the odds, and that, for me, speaks volumes." Inside, Isabel Alvarez said she long has been supportive of Hillary Clinton. "I can say that it is more realistic what Hillary is saying than what he is saying," Alvarez, 51, said, referring to Sanders. "Hillary's not looking really for free college we know that it's not something really that can be realistic but she can help. She can try to help us get, maybe, lower rates." Bill Clinton is scheduled to speak in Fort Worth and San Antonio Monday afternoon. The summers final Live on the Waterfront concert was held Wednesday evening at Prince Arthurs Landing. The popular series in Thunder Bay has completed nine weekly shows that began on July 13. Wednesdays concert was unique as it was held one hour later in the evening to mesh with the 10 p. Peste 300 de liceene s-au inscris in Startup School si sunt gata sa invete bazele antreprenoriatului tehnologic. Vezi cum a fost la evenimentul de lansare a programului national de educatie antreprenoriala If you read The New York Times story on Asbury Park earlier this month, you might think the downtrodden Jersey Shore city is at the dawn of a revitalization. The piece, published in the real estate section, describes how a new hotel could mark the first major step forward on the waterfront, where previous efforts have yielded few lasting or notable results. Talk of revival in Bruce Springsteens favorite city is a bit late. Merchants have filled empty boardwalk storefronts, trendy bars and restaurants have moved in downtown, and new residents have snatched up high-end condos. If there was one distinguishable turning point for Asbury Park, its probably in the past. When big newsrooms write about communities in transition, they often miss the first signs of a turnaround. Once they do wake up, they ascribe sweeping proclamations of change, usually tied to some landmark moment. The spin of local stakeholders becomes the foundation of the story. Reporters buy into the stakeholders motives and miss whats actually unfolding in the community. The Times most recent story on Asbury Park, for instance, backs up the new hotels symbolic place in a long-awaited revival with hopeful quotes from local leaders (Its a new day). It also describes the citys history of false starts. The most remarkable past failure mentioned in the article was a project that was abandoned mid-construction nearly a decade ago. Only the story mostly glosses over the tremendous progress made between then and now. Increased beach and parking meter revenues have long signaled a resurgence in tourism, so much so that parking has become a top concern among residents. The city is no longer a ghost town. And The Times knows this. As far back as 2009, it reported that evidence of the quickening pace of renewal [was] hard to miss, with later stories touting Asburys fruits of redevelopment on the boardwalk and signs of a rejuvenation. The newspaper was early with its coverage of the citys budding LGBT community in 2000, which planted the seeds of this revival. But much of The Times reporting in the past eight or so years has been hesitant to acknowledge anything beyond the prospect of a turnaround. The most recent Times article does mention the citys string of other redevelopment projects. It also quotes a councilwoman as saying, We still have a ways to go, but we are nowhere near where we used to be. Yet the papers narrative hinges on the false notion that little else has changed in Asbury. Sign up for CJR 's daily email All kinds of journalists make broad declarations, whether theyre covering a political candidates momentum or the next mega-popular food dish. But the flaw is especially apparent in the stories of cities in transition, whose complexities warrant greater care than an article on kale. The question would be, says Alan Ehrenhalt, senior editor of Governing magazine, are reporters jumping to conclusions in some places? And the answer to that is probably yes. Those conclusions may be hopeful or skeptical, and they may apply to downtown revitalization efforts or neighborhoods in decline. How The Times has portrayed Williamsburg and its inhabitants, often in a wonderstruck or conflicting way, illustrates just how difficult it can be to measure a places rise to cool, according to this 2013 Gawker rundown, which mocks and chronicles the papers understanding of the neighborhood. In 2000, a Times source called the Brooklyn neighborhood the next big thing. But three years later, a Times examination dredged up uncertainty as to whether Williamsburg was still cool. (Williamsburg is hardly over, said one person, while another argued, Williamsburg is definitely no longer underground.) Verdicts ping-ponged until 2013, when an essayist for the Gray Lady proclaimed the areas transformation complete. The progress of a place is almost always better shown than told. Whats more, real estate experts say there is no firm benchmark to measure when a neighborhood has reached establishment status. Wendell Jamieson, The Times metro editor, whose desk was not responsible for the recent Asbury Park piece but who agreed to speak to the broader issue, says the journalists task is especially difficult when parachuting into a community. (The metro desk has one New Jersey reporter.) Crunching data, interviews and observations, and comparing redevelopments to those in other cities all contribute to what amounts to a subjective and often imprecise reading of a place. Herbert Lowe, a professor at Marquette University in Milwaukee who studied a newsroom covering revitalization, says reporters need to analyze the nuanced ways in which a neighborhoods people and institutions function every day. You cant tell whats happening in a community in a day or two. When time is spare, the temptation is to give local stakeholders undue power to shape the reporters impression. If you want to write about a community coming up, the developers your best friend, Ehrenhalt says, and youre his best friend. The people pushing these projects are important sources and, typically, interesting subjects. But they are also motivated to market new developments as symbols of progress, or critical turning points. The rewards may be re-election, more money for the planning department, or a developers or realtors dream payday. And, boy, do developers know how to spin. The Denver Post published a story this month about a hotel proposed for the citys chic LoHi neighborhood. The piece quoted the builder touting his project as a means to solidify the area as an incredibly vibrant commercial district. Yet The Post labeled LoHi cool, 10 years earlier. The neighborhoods real estate and culinary scenes made headlines even earlier. While a hotel might add to existing business, its questionable whether the project can solidify something thats been concrete for some time. Community stakeholders in Detroit have taken their campaign even more seriously. At one point, they became so tired of doomsday news reports that they organized a media lobbying effort to flip the narrative. Theyve taken reporters on bus tours and connected them with people who are pushing for a revitalization of their own. Whats disconcerting are the important stories that get overlooked amid the hype. In Asbury Park, that unturned stone can be found on the west side of the train tracks, where the police blotter is lengthy, the high school graduation rate is improving but still the lowest in the county, and the benefits of a boom have been less noticeable. The Times and other national media outlets have noted the disparity in passing, but it typically remains a local issue. The recent Times story did describe the hotels plan to hire locals, a newsworthy push to improve the quality of life for everyone in Asbury Park. Lets hope thats the beginning of coverage that grinds more deeply in the details of revitalization. Has America ever needed a media watchdog more than now? Help us by joining CJR today Jack Murtha is a CJR Delacorte Fellow. Follow him on Twitter at @JackMurtha When an initial report arrived saying the captain of the cargo ship El Faro had called ashore for help, the U.S. Coast Guard didnt believe the vessel was at risk of sinking and later had software problems while preparing a response plan. Still, Coast Guard Petty Officer 2nd Class Matthew Chancery testified Wednesday at an investigative hearing in Jacksonville, Florida, that the ships distress was soon clear and that software issues did not delay search efforts. The 790-foot SS El Faro sank in a hurricane Oct. 1 after losing propulsion near the Bahamas on its way from Jacksonville to San Juan, Puerto Rico. All 33 aboard died. Chancery said initial conversations with a representative for the ships owner, Tote Inc., led the Coast Guard to believe early on that the ship was disabled, but managing to stabilize the situation. The morning that the ship sank, El Faro Capt. Michael Davidson told Totes designated person ashore, Capt. John Lawrence, he thought the crew would be able to pump out water coming into the ship, according to testimony. Based on this information, Chancery told Lawrence he thought the ship might be able to anchor and ride out the bad weather. Even though El Faro was in 15,000 feet of water, Chancery said there were islands near where they thought the ship might be, and that the storm might push the vessel into shallower water. During these initial conversations, however, Chancery said he heard El Faros distress alarm and became very alarmed. When he plotted the ships location and was unable to reach the vessels satellite phone, Chancery knew the ship was in serious trouble. I knew the general area was right in the middle of (Hurricane) Joaquin, he said. The Coast Guard had no aircraft that could reach the site in the storm, and the closest possible cutter was hundreds of miles away, Chancery said. The guard was able to get a hurricane hunter aircraft working for the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration to send out a call to the ship. Another vessel in the same general area that was also experiencing trouble also called El Faro, with no reply, he said. Chancery said crews went into distress mode, but there were glitches with the software the Coast Guard uses to plan searches, called SAR-OPS. So, crews resorted to other methods including using paper charts. Later, they had to spend hours re-inputting data into the software system to use it, Chancery said. He said the software became instrumental later in the search. In terms of response time, I dont think the loss of this system would affect it at all, Chancery said, saying all of the guards assets were unable to reach the area immediately anyway because of the hurricane. Even with winds still high, the guard did send one plane in the next day which was damaged and experienced severe turbulence, Capt. Todd Coggeshall testified on Tuesday. The Coast Guard investigative board has been interviewing company officials, guard personnel and others to help identify any misconduct or other issues that may have played a role in the accident. After another round of hearings later this year, the Coast Guard will issue a report. The board can levy civil charges, and will forward any evidence of criminal misconduct to the U.S. Department of Justice. On Tuesday, the boards chairman, Capt. Jason Neubauer, told reporters he did not think the hearings had uncovered any such evidence thus far. An attorney for Davidsons widow thanked Chancery after his testimony. On behalf of Theresa Davidson and the Davidson family, I want to thank you for all the efforts you made, attorney William Bennett said. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The gas-storage facility that spewed methane uncontrollably for almost four months, driving thousands of families from their homes, wont resume operations until it has undergone tougher tests than ever required before, a process that will take months and perhaps even longer. The massive leak drew attention to the Southern California Gas Co. facility and the larger subject of old energy infrastructure nationwide. It also put heat on the state to speed up tougher new regulations that will outlaw a risky practice that put the well in jeopardy of a blowout. I wouldnt say it was a wake-up call. Id say it was a `You need to accelerate that process, said Jason Marshall, chief deputy director of the state Department of Conservation. Weve moved it to the top of the pile. In addition to passing emergency regulations, the departments oil and gas division directed the Aliso Canyon facility to undergo tests expected to last months before it can resume operations. It must also follow safer operating rules that could be expanded to facilities statewide, Marshall said. Environmentalists and residents sickened by the foul smell and chemicals have called for the facility to be permanently shut down. Aliso Canyon is a major source of energy for Southern California and state utility overseers are figuring out how to provide power while its largely out of commission, as well as exploring what would happen if it never reopens. During a legislative hearing Monday on a bill that would prevent the facility from storing additional gas while undergoing tests of its 114 wells, state lawmakers were concerned about power outages during a shutdown. The situation is similar to when the San Onofre nuclear plant shut down in 2013 after a radiation leak, said Michael Picker, the president of the California Public Utility Commission. It wasnt just the power, but it was the ability to support power flows north and south and getting power to certain specific parts of the state, Picker said. A transmission line in Northern California isnt effective in San Diego, for example. Unlike electricity that moves rapidly, natural gas flows about 35 mph and comes from out-of-state pipelines, so plans need to be made before its needed. In addition to residential and business customers, Aliso Canyon serves dozens of gas-fired power plants. They built a system where Aliso Canyon was too big to fail. And it failed, said Rep. Brad Sherman, a Democrat who owns a home in Porter Ranch near the facility. They say, We wont prove to you its safe, well just prove to you its necessary. If the facility were closed, getting new storage permitted would be unlikely because of community opposition and geologic concerns, said Jay Apt, co-director of the Carnegie Mellon Electricity Industry Center. Taking something offline is probably forever, Apt said. SoCalGas Chief Executive Officer Dennis Arreola said the company planned to comply with new requirements and accelerate inspections at the facility that has had leaks and failures from corrosion and heavy use. The new requirements will put a crimp in the speed at which gas is injected deep underground for storage when demand is low and withdrawn in colder weather or during demand spikes. Tests will measure the thickness of protective steel casings, corrosion and make sure wells can withstand intense pressures. The company will now be required to inject and withdraw the gas through narrow metal tubing that runs from the mountain-top facility to abandoned oil wells below. SoCalGas had been using both the tubing and a much wider steel casing surrounding it to deliver larger volumes of gas. Experts said that was risky because the casing was a safety barrier if the tubing failed. In the case of the blown-out well, the casing is believed to have failed under high pressure, allowing the gas to escape. Marshall said the practice, which is fairly common, is forever over at Aliso Canyon and will be banned statewide once new regulations are drafted. He said that change is arguably more important than requiring subsurface safety valves. The well that failed had its safety valve removed in 1979. It wasnt required and was never replaced. Anthony Ingraffea, a Cornell University engineering professor who identified the dual injection and withdrawal practice as a fatal flaw after studying the wells records, applauded the new rules and test requirements. He questioned, however, how regulators had been lax for so long. The agency has been criticized for a lack of industry oversight and acknowledged problems just weeks before the Aliso Canyon leak was reported Oct. 23. The promise of additional funding for new hires is not likely to appease critics. The rules dont fix the problems at Californias broken oil regulatory agency, which has a scandalous track record of failing to enforce even basic regulations, said attorney Maya Golden-Krasner of the Center for Biological Diversity. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. The Christmas fire that destroyed the historic Butte Creek Mill was caused by an electrical malfunction in the milling room, investigators have determined. After a two-month investigation, in which many theories were developed and tested, fire and insurance investigators determined the cause to be accidental. The mills arcane construction, electrical wiring and frigid night air conspired to mask a smoldering fire that may well have begun Christmas Eve. Heat from the malfunctioning electrical unit ignited a smoldering fire in a concealed space on the west side of the milling room. The fire spread slowly between the ceiling of the milling room and the floor planks of the second story until the structural elements gave way, Jackson County Fire District 3 Deputy Chief John Patterson said this week. Because it was a cold night, and wood smoke was in the air, no one could smell it, Patterson said. If it had been in July, it might have been more apparent. The collapse pushed smoke, gas and burning materials into the lobby and adjacent rooms, Patterson said. The open-plank construction and exposed wood were easily ignited and the fire grew rapidly, spreading throughout the 144-year-old mill. The fire could have been burning for a few hours, or as many as 10, Patterson said. Were not sure how much space was involved, he said. It can smolder without oxygen. Even with electrical updates from time to time, the wiring involved was likely older. Electric services dont last forever, he said. When firefighters arrived shortly after 4 a.m., they found half of the 5,522-square-foot mill engulfed in flames. The mill was a total loss, but a neighboring 2,275-square-foot antique shop escaped the flames. Butte Creek Mill owner Bob Russell indicated a general time line for resumption of activity. Asked about milling elsewhere, he said it wasnt as easy of a proposition as he first thought. Weve discussed that, and Ive spoken with some people in the Springfield area who make flour using millstones, and there are a lot of little details to work out, Russell said. We may be producing eight or 10 of our favorite products and have them available on the website. Its more complicated than I thought it might be, like everything else. He said a nonprofit component is in the works that will allow people to make tax deductible contributions. Russell said he hoped to have an architectural rendering and a fully developed plan by May 14, the date of this years Vintage Fair. We want to truly find a way to make (the mill) part of the community again and a central part of the community and have it rise from the ashes, he said.Id like a year from now (to) have part of the structure up. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Actor Killed by Prop Sword in Play Rehearsal in Japan Why is it that most all of the truly strange or stupid events in pop or serious culture stand a good chance of coming from Japan as a point of origin? That unique country seems to have a special mojo that attracts weird incidents.This weekend it was revealed that a Japanese actor by the name Daigo Kashino was rushed to the hospital and later died after being stabbed in rehearsal by a samurai sword. This was a stage prop samurai sword being used in rehearsal. This is the second bizarre death of a performer this year. An actor in Italy was choked in a stage hanging scene and died earlier in February. Officially, the police are saying that the actor was pierced in the stomach "with a sword like object" during a sword fight sequence that the actors were practicing. The police have stated they will investigate the incident to make sure it was an accidental death and that there was no criminal act involved. According to CNN, the other actors involved were at a studio in Tokyo working when they heard the man groan and then everyone turned to find the man hunched over and in pain. Everyone involved claims not to have seen anything. According to Ksat, the actors were in rehearsal for a 'jidaigeki' drama, which are a big part of the Japanese cultural heritage. They are frequently found on television, on film and on stage, as well. These period dramas are concerned with portraying the lives of people during the Edo era in Japan. The lives of samurai are portrayed and those of such classes as farmers and merchants. These dramas were once a huge concern nationwide but in recent years their popularity has faded a bit. One of the biggest studios in Japan and Google Japan are cooperating together to to try an give the genre appeal among younger people. Whether the lead character is a samurai, farmer or merchant in these stories there is one common factor to all of it. A lot of sword fighting. 2016 The Classical Art, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. TagsActor, Killed on Stage, Play Rehearsal, Japan, Prop Sword New Jean Valjean John Owen-Jones Performing Carnegie Hall for New York Pops 33rd Birthday Gala John Owen-Jones is not just joining the cast of Les Miserables as the new Jean Valjean on Broadway, but he is also making his way to Carnegie Hall. The former Phantom of the Opera lead will be joining The New York Pops orchestra to help them celebrate the big three-three as part of the New York Pops 33rd Birthday Gala Do You Hear the People Sing concert event on Monday, May 2, 2016. John Owen-Jones recently spoke to Broadway World about his upcoming Spring concert with the New York Pops: That has been on my bucket list. I couldn't believe that when I was asked to do it! When I was asked to do Les Miz, I was like, I wonder if I'll be able to work out some way of performing at Carnegie Hall... I'll worry about that when I get to New York. Then before I even got on the plane I got an offer. I'm SO excited about doing that because it's one of the most beautiful places in the world to sing. I went to see Bryn Terfel, singing an opera recital there. There were no microphones, the chorus and orchestra were amazing, and you could hear every single word. It was crystal clear. When I sat in the audience I just thought, I have got to sing here one day. The New York Pops 33rd Birthday Gala Do You Hear the People Sing concert event will be held on Monday, May 2, 2016. For more information please visit http://www.carnegiehall.org/. Are you excited to see John Owen-Jones take over the role of Jean Valjean? Let us know your thoughts in the comments section at the bottom of the page. 2016 The Classical Art, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. TagsNew, Jean Valjean, John Owen-Jones, Performing, Carnegie Hall, New York Pops, 33rd Birthday Gala Couple Get Counterfeiter Arrested for Selling Fake Hamilton Tickets Recently the official Hamilton the Musical website released a warning to fans to not buy tickets from any unauthorized vender. However, some are not so quick to throw away their shot to see the hottest show on Earth. One woman recently learned the hard way that uncharitable souls will take advantage of Hamiltons hype in order to make a quick buck. But she wasnt about to be just another victim. New Yorks Danielle Posner and her boyfriend to shot back at the counterfeiters, getting them arrested for selling fake tickets. Danielle Posner spoke to CBS2 about the fake tickets she bought and the story the counterfeiters tried to sell her: This looked real. He had four tickets. He said he and his girlfriend really wanted to go, but the other couple bailed Posner was impressed with the quality of the fakes, comparing them to the read deal: Full out, legit Ticketmaster ticket. Same back print as a real ticket, same picture, everything looked real. Posners boyfriend wasnt buying the story and posed as a buyer to see if the four tickets were still on sale, after Posner had already bought them: So he wrote back and said he had the four tickets, and thats when I got really upset. So the couple reached out to the police and set up a sting to have bait the criminal: I said Im going to get him arrested, this is not okay. They found a stack this thick of the same four tickets repeated over and over and over again, so hes been selling these like crazy. 2016 The Classical Art, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. AKRON, Ohio -- An Akron man is accused of breaking into a woman's house and sexually assaulting her. Geovonie Ellerson, 18, is charged with aggravated burglary and rape. He is being held in the Summit County Jail on $500,000 bond. Ellerson about 2:30 a.m. Feb. 22 broke into a woman's apartment on Florida Avenue, according to court records. He initially denied knowing anything about the incident, but later admitted to raping the woman, court records say. He was charged Friday. Investigators noted Ellerson has several "sexually deviant" arrests within the past six months, according to records. Ellerson has been arrested one other time in the three months since his 18th birthday. The others happened while he was a juvenile. Ellerson already faces a felony stalking charge stemming from an incident with a female Summit County Sheriff's deputy. The deputy spotted Ellerson Jan. 11 at the Metro Transit Center on South Broadway Street. Ellerson had been banned the week prior for 90 days for repeated violations. The deputy watched Ellerson get on a bus. She arrested him. Ellerson then made several "sexually suggestive comments" to the deputy, according to police reports. He also threatened to beat up Akron police officers. He was banned from the transit center for one year and was charged with the felony. Ellerson pleaded not guilty in that case. fish facts Check out these fun fish fry facts, and be sure to vote in our poll for the best fish fry in Greater Cleveland. CLEVELAND, Ohio - During Lent, lots of area churches have lines out the door. But it's not the midnight service people are queuing up for: it's the annual Lenten fish frys. Schools, community organizations, restaurants and bars also wade into the fish fry waters this time of year. In fact, the smell of fish frying is one of the earliest harbingers of impending spring. There are many great fish frys in the area, but cleveland.com wants to know which is the best of the bunch. You can vote for your favorite fish fry in the city of Cleveland, to the West side, the East side, and down South. Voting is open until March 10 and we encourage fans to vote each day. In between voting for the best fish fry, and enjoying some crispy fried fish Friday night, here are some fun fish fry facts. 1. Calories per fish fry Fish are often hailed as a healthy option -- and they are. But your typical fish fry will still pack on the calories. Most fried fish filets add up to a little over 200 calories, and most fish frys are more generous with their portions. So, let's say 400-500 calories from the fish. But then you'll have to factor in the sides, like coleslaw, a cup of which will add about 100 more calories to your meal. A cup of fries is another 150 calories. That means you're looking at about 750 calories, and these are small serving sizes for your typical Cleveland area fish fry, and we're not even counting bread or drinks. 2. Lent is a boon for fish sales This one probably comes as no surprise, but fish sales go up during Lent. According to one estimate from the now-out-of-print Seafood Business Magazine, salmon sales increase 30 percent during Lent, tilapia sales go up 32 percent, and cod sales increase by 60 percent. Many restaurants, bars, and fast-food chains try to get in on the fish sales by offering specials this time of year. Speaking of which... 3. The McDonald's Filet-O-Fish is an Ohio original One of the most popular Lenten Friday meals is the McDonald's Filet-O-Fish, which was invented in the Buckeye State. In the 1960s, Cincinnati McDonald's franchise owner Lou Groen was concerned about the drop in hamburger sales during Lent, so he invented the square-shaped fish patty sandwich to appease his predominantly Catholic customers. Although McDonald's founder Ray Krock was against the idea at first, the fish sandwich turned out to be a hit. These days, the chain sells more than 300 million of the sandwiches annually, according to the Cincinnati Enquirer. 4. The French connection Fried fish are often served with french fries, but that's not the only thing that's Francophile about the dish. The word "batter" originally comes from the French word "battre." Battre means to beat, you know, as in beating together some flour and water to make fish batter. Bon appetit! 5. The best fish and chips are in Cheltenham, England Americans certainly enjoy their fried fish during Lent, but our British neighbors across the pond take their love of fried fish to a whole new level. The United Kingdom holds an annual contest for the best fish and chips. This year's winner was Simpsons fish and chips shop in Cheltenham, a spa town that is home to a flagship steeplechase race. So, if you're into fried fish, spas, and horse racing, this is the town for you. Now that the best fried fish in the United Kingdom has been firmly established, cast your vote to determine who holds the best Friday fish fry in Northeast Ohio! Voting will be open until March 10 and you can vote one per day. Ana Angelica Pedro Juan TOLEDO, Ohio -- A Columbus woman pleaded guilty Monday to being the second-in-command of a human-trafficking ring that brought young Guatemalans to the U.S. and forced them to work on central Ohio egg farms. Ana Angelica Pedro Juan, 22, pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge in front of Senior U.S. District Judge James Carr in Toledo. She faces 63 to 78 months in federal prison under a plea agreement reached with prosecutors. A sentencing date has not been scheduled. Pedro Juan's plea means that six defendants have admitted to smuggling Guatemalans over the U.S.-Mexico border and forcing them to work at facilities owned by egg producer Trillium Farms. Many of the workers were minors whose families were falsely promised a better life if they let their children leave Guatemala. Instead, they were forced to live in cramped, dirty trailers in a park on the outskirts of Marion County, about two hours southwest from Cleveland. Federal agents began an investigation into the human-trafficking claims in 2011. "This case is a stark reminder that human trafficking hides in plain sight all around us," Acting U.S. Attorney Carole Rendon said in a news release. "It underscores the need for all of us to be vigilant where we live and work. When something seems suspicious, we need to report it, not ignore it." Merle Dech Jr., Pedro Juan's attorney, declined to comment. Pedro Juan is a Guatemalan national who illegally entered the United States in 2011, according to a grand jury indictment filed in July. Along with organizer Aroldo Castillo-Serrano, Pedro Juan isolated workers and collected their paychecks to pay for rent and other expenses. When workers balked about not having any money, she threatened to harm them or their families. In one instance, she struck a worker when he refused to hand over his paycheck, the indictment says. When the FBI began investigating, she told a victim to lie and also lied to an agent herself. Of the six people who faced charges, two have been sentenced. Castillo-Serrano, along with two other men who owned contracting companies that worked with Trillium, will be sentenced April 11. Even though all of the defendants have pleaded guilty, the FBI is still investigating. Trillium has acknowledged that it was subpoenaed in connection with the investigation. The company said it has changed the way it worked with contractors. The case garnered attention not only because of the number of victims -- more than 40, all of whom were all freed during a December 2014 raid -- but because it shined a light on a form of human trafficking that is not often discussed. It also led Ohio Sen. Rob Portman, a Republican, to launch a Senate investigation into how the underage workers were able to cross the border and were placed into the hands of traffickers. The investigation yielded a report last month that said employees of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services did not properly vet people who showed up at the border to claim the minors. Portman said at the hearing that the Marion case could have been prevented if the department had "adopted common-sense measures for screening sponsors and checking in on the well-being of at-risk children." Updated with background, information about Pedro Juan's involvement and a quote. Cory Cooper sentencing Cory Cooper, 22, of East Cleveland, was sentenced to 14 years for robbing a Bay Village PNC Bank last summer. He is already serving five years for a separate robbery. (John Harper, cleveland.com) CLEVELAND, Ohio -- A 22-year-old East Cleveland man was sentenced to 14 years in prison Monday for robbing a Bay Village PNC Bank last summer. Cory Cooper, of Cleveland, was arrested Aug. 13, five days after police say he and two other men robbed the PNC Bank on Dover Center Road in Bay Village. Cooper pleaded guilty to one count of possessing criminal tools used in the robbery and one count of aggravated robbery in the Bay Village case. Cooper is already serving a five-year prison sentence for a July robbery in Lake County. In August, he also robbed a Citizens Bank in Eastlake and a First National Bank in Mentor. He pleaded for leniency Monday, telling Common Pleas Judge Kathleen Ann Sutula that he is responsible for caring for his younger sister. Sutula handed down the recommended sentences on each of two counts on top of time he is serving in Lake County. "Were you thinking of your sister when you were smoking marijuana when you were 14," Sutula said. "Was she taking care of you when you were an unruly child in 2007, or in 2008 when you were dealing again. Your drug possession in 2010, were you taking care of her then?" Cooper walked into the bank Aug. 8 on Dover Road and told the teller that he had a gun and a police scanner, police say. Two others waited outside in a getaway vehicle. Surveillance footage showed Cooper stuffing wads of cash into a bag. Witnesses saw him get into a dark SUV with two other people. The judge read a long rap sheet of drug charges. Cooper began drinking when he was 12 years old, court records say, and started smoking marijuana -- four blunts a day -- when he was 10. Cooper was in and out of court repeatedly since he was 14. As a juvenile he took heroin twice a month, two pills of ecstasy a week, one Molly pill a week and tried PCP twice, according to the court history read by the judge. He has never held employment and is financially supported by his friends and family, Sutula said. He told a Lake County judge that he spent $10,000 stolen from the Eastlake bank on heroin and painkillers, the News Herald reports. As charges were read, Cooper slumped his head. "I know this is tiring. Do you want to get him a chair so he can fall asleep," Sutula said. "I don't want him to fall over when he falls asleep during the sentencing." When released from prison, Cooper will face five years of probation control. CLEVELAND, Ohio -- The Ohio Attorney General's Office has asked the Lorain County Prosecutor's Office to determine what evidence can be used against the police officers involved in the death of Tanisha Anderson. Cuyahoga County Administrative and Presiding Judge John J. Russo will consider the motion filed Friday by the Attorney General's Office seeking the appointment of a Lorain County prosecutor to review statements made by officers Scott Aldridge and Bryan Myers. Anderson, who suffered from mental illness, died in November 2014 as the officers placed her in a prone position while trying put her in a squad car, according the a report from the Cuyahoga County Medical Examiner's Office. The 37-year-old's heart disease and bipolar disorder were considered factors in her death. The Anderson case has been marred by several delays. It was transferred from the Cleveland police department to the Cuyahoga County Sheriff's Office. That office completed its investigation two weeks ago and it was sent to McGinty who immediately deferred the investigation to the Attorney General's Office. If the Attorney General's Office earns approval on its motion, the Lorain prosecutors will remove any so-called Garrity material before sending it to Special Prosecutor Matthew Donahue. Information collected by internal investigators that doesn't meet prosecutorial standards is called Garrity material, named after a New Jersey police chief who sued the state of New Jersey in the 1960s after being told he had to talk to investigators in order to keep his job. The Supreme Court found in 1967 that government employers could not force employees to incriminate themselves during internal investigations, in accordance with the Fifth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution. Anderson's case was one of several police-involved deaths that gained notoriety in 2014. Family members called police twice the day of her death because she became unruly and difficult to handle. Anderson's family filed a wrongful death lawsuit against the police department last month. This article has been clarified to make clear that the Ohio Attorney General special prosecutor has not yet received the investigation. An outside agency will review the investigative material for Garrity conflicts before sending the report to the prosecutor. Lorain police cars.jpg A Lorain girl told police she saw a man wearing a ski mask outside her West 9th Street bedroom window Thursday morning, around the same time a man tried to grab two other girls and exposed himself to another. (File photo) LORAIN, Ohio -- A fourth Lorain girl reported that she saw a man in a ski mask outside her bedroom window Thursday about the same time a man tried to grab two other girls and exposed himself to another. The girl who lives on West 9th Street told police that she saw the man while she was getting ready for school between 6 and 6:30 a.m. The man noticed he was being watched and ran to a dark four-door vehicle, possibly a Toyota Corolla, and drove away, the police report says. The girl's mother called police the next day to report the incident. A man tried to grab two girls and exposed himself to another on the city's West Side that Thursday morning, triggering a lockdown at Lorain City Schools. A man grabbed a girl by the arm, made threatening comments, and punched her twice around 6 a.m. in the area of West 9th and Washington Avenue, Lorain police said. The girl screamed and ran away. Neighbors heard the girl's screams and saw a man running on West 8th Street, Lorain police said. A man fitting the same description exposed himself and followed a girl into a yard in the area of Oberlin Avenue and West 8th Street more than an hour later, police said. He ran west on West 8th Street. The man grabbed another girl from behind about 20 minutes later near West 18th Street and Oakdale Avenue. The man ran east on West 18th Street. Police are still trying to determine if the girl saw the same man standing in her West 9th Street driveway. The girl told police the man was either zipping or unzipping his pants. When the man saw the girl looking at him, he ran to the car that was running with its lights off in the 1300 block of West 9th Street. The vehicle fled westbound on West 9th Street, the police report says. The girl said the man was at least 5-feet 6-inches tall. He was wearing all dark baggy clothing and a ski mask. In the other three cases, Lorain police are looking for a white man in his mid 20s to mid 30s. He's 5-feet 10-inches tall. He was wearing a black jacket with a hood, dark jeans, dark shoes, dark gloves, and possibly a black ski mask-type mask covering his face. Police also are investigating a possible connection to a similar incident earlier the same morning in Elyria. A 10-year-old Elyria girl reported that a man tried to pull her through the bedroom window of her Furnace Street home about 3:45 a.m. The girl was able to escape, and run to her father's bedroom. Like Chanda Neely on Facebook. Follow me on Twitter: Getty Images Technology may not be dead after all. Following a miserable first six weeks of the year, tech stocks got a big lift last week as Salesforce.com , Splunk and Palo Alto Networks reported better-than-expected results and revived confidence in software spending. The Nasdaq climbed almost 2 percent over the past five trading days, leaving the index down just slightly in February. While still suffering heavy losses in 2016, software investors were given a confidence boost on Wednesday when Salesforce not only raised its annual earnings guidance but, more importantly, the company said it sees no signs of an economic slowdown. That's important because earlier this month, Tableau Software tanked the cloud software market after warning of "some softness in spending" on the same day that LinkedIn cited weakness in the European and Asian regions. "Now we read the same newspapers as everybody else. We're not seeing an economic impact," Salesforce Chief Financial Officer Mark Hawkins said on the earnings call, in response to a question about the macro environment. Shares of San Francisco-based Salesforce jumped 12 percent last week, while Splunk , located a mile away, surged 19 percent. For the year, they remain down 11 percent and 29 percent, respectively. Splunk, whose software helps businesses make sense of the mounds of data flowing through their servers and apps, exceeded expectations for earnings and outlook. The company was asked by an analyst what it's seeing in terms of IT spending, given negative comments from other businesses in recent weeks. "Within our Splunk sales cycles, we're not seeing that," said CEO Douglas Merritt. "In many cases ... [customers are] seeming to prioritize spend for Splunk right now." Last week's rally Security vendor Palo Alto Networks rallied 16 percent last week on a rosy revenue outlook, cutting in half the stock's loss for the year. Questioned about the global economy, CEO Mark McLaughlin told analysts about his travels in January to Europe and Asia. "The customers that I talked with said that security remains a priority spend item for them," he said. "We haven't seen anything to indicate that what we're seeing in the stock market means anything about the macro economy yet." Read MoreGrowth of Palo Alto Networks Not all tech results were uplifting, however. Fitbit , the maker of fitness tracking devices, tumbled 22 percent last week and is down almost 60 percent for the year. After a splashy IPO in June, the San Francisco-based company has struggled to meet growth expectations and is now bolstering spending on marketing and research and development. Five analysts downgraded their ratings, according to FactSet, including Piper Jaffray's Erinn Murphy, who lowered her recommendation to neutral. "While there are long-term positives around FIT's role in the digital health arena, some of these benefits are still intangible and we need to see better visibility on sell-through of new product and consumer engagement," Murphy wrote. watch now Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Valeriy Melnikov | Host Photo Agency | Ria Novosti | Getty Images Prime Minister Narendra Modi wants the federal budget unveiled on Monday to appeal to India's rural poor, officials familiar with his thinking said, in a strategy shift that could boost his ruling party in coming state elections but disappoint investors. His government is expected to increase spending on agriculture, health and social sectors, a change from its focus on infrastructure spending and market reforms, they said. "We will have to reform the agriculture markets, invest more resources to deal with the agrarian crisis - all of this could be an integral part of this year's budget," said Ramesh Chand, a member of the federal planning body Niti Aayog that gave the finance ministry inputs. "The budget could provide resources to expand the coverage and effectiveness of schemes such as crop insurance, food and fertilizer subsidy, and irrigation," Chand told Reuters. On Sunday, a finance ministry spokesman could not be reached for comment on the budget themes. watch now Modi's landslide election in 2014 raised hopes he would draw a line under India's socialist past, cut welfare and reduce the government's role in business. In its first two years in power, the government splurged on roads and railways at the expense of welfare programmes in the hope of creating economic stimulus. Modi's gamble was that infrastructure investment would eventually generate dividends for the poor and the rural community, which makes up most of India's 1.3 billion population. Back-to-back droughts But rising rural distress after back-to-back droughts and a recent heavy election defeat in a largely agricultural state have upset that calculus. watch now It has also left the government open to attacks by the opposition, who use a Hindi phrase to deride Modi's administration as a "suit and boot" government that only works in the interest of the rich. "He is starting all over again," an official familiar with Modi's thinking said. "The image of Modi as a supporter of big business has been damaging. This budget will change that narrative." The budget is expected to counter criticism ahead of key elections in heartland farming states such as West Bengal this year and Uttar Pradesh next year. But the switch in focus is likely to disappoint investors and markets. Increased social spending may hike India's closely watched fiscal deficit to 3.8 percent of GDP next financial year from a target of 3.5 percent, one official said. "The markets and rating agencies will be disappointed if the deficit reaches that level," said D.H. Pai Panandiker, president of RPG Foundation, an economic policy group in New Delhi. Last week, yields on India's most-traded bonds touched their highest level in 18 months and the rupee slumped on fears of a higher deficit level. 'Villages, poor and farmers' The Hindu nationalist Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS), the powerful ideological parent of Modi's Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has also been urging the government to do more to help distressed farmers. RSS officials last month told Finance Minister Arun Jaitley to do more for them in a four-hour meeting only scheduled for one, people familiar with the talks said. "It was for the first time we felt that Jaitley was keen to understand the crisis in farmlands," one RSS official said. One government official said the budget's focus will be on "gaon, garib and kisan (villages, the poor and farmers)." The government has been advised to double spending to about $1.2 billion on a crop insurance program and boost irrigation expenditure, officials said. "We're going to try, with great humility and respect, to share what we've been doing and what we've learned," Starbucks' Chairman and CEO Howard Schultz said in a press release Monday. "Our first store will be designed with painstaking detail and great respect for the Italian people and coffee culture." Starbucks carefully couched its announcement of the long-awaited move in a way that showed it was aware it was entering a market with strong convictions - sometimes described as bordering on the religious - about coffee. Coffee giant Starbucks is finally ready to take its Americanized version of Italian coffees back to Italy, with its first outlet set to open in early 2017. In a deal with Percassi, an Italian brand manager, the first Starbucks outlet will open in Milan early next year, with stores to be rolled out in cities across the country later. While it isn't clear whether Italians will turn to Starbucks for a mega-sized pick-me-up, the Seattle-based coffee company may be able to lure in customers, particularly tourists, with its free Wi-Fi. That may also be a draw for professionals in the country, as Italian coffee shops sometimes charge extra for seating at tables, as opposed to standing-room areas. Starbucks may also be able to offer extended opening hours, compared with family-run coffee shops. But while Italy has a rich coffee tradition, it isn't clear there's much growth in the market. Earlier this month, research firm Euromonitor estimated Italy's coffee market at 1.7 billion euros ($1.86 billion) in 2015, up 2 percent on year. Between 2015-2020, it expects just 1 percent compound annual growth in retail volume terms and 3 percent in constant 2015 value terms to 162,000 tonnes and 2.0 billion euros. Italy also already has a dominant play, Luigi Lavazza, with a 37 percent share of retail value in 2015, Euromonitor said. By comparison, the U.S. retail coffee house industry is expected to generate more than $31 billion in revenue in 2015, according to data from Statista. Italy's population is around 62 million, compared with about 321 million in the U.S. It isn't clear how well Starbucks is breaking into Europe's coffee culture in general. In its fiscal first quarter ended December 27, the company's comparable store sales for Europe, the Middle East and Africa (EMEA) rose just 1 percent, compared with a better-than-expected 9 percent increase in the Americas. Net revenue for EMEA was $313 million in the fiscal first quarter, down 6 percent on-year. Starbucks' Italian foray isn't the first time the company has bearded an entrenched coffee culture. In 2013, the company opened outlets in Vietnam, a country that not only has plentiful small, cheap cafes, but also its own more-upscale chains, including Trung Nguyen. Starbucks doesn't break out its performance in Vietnam in its results. Billionaire investor Warren Buffett expounded on a number of subjects in an appearance on CNBC's "Squawk Box" on Monday. Giving investors an idea of his commitment to the market, he said he bought stocks after the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks, and after the 1987 stock market crash. "The country is not going to go away," he said. "The country will grow in value over time." The Berkshire Hathaway chairman and CEO said he bets on American business doing well over the long term, though he acknowledged that businesses have been "a bit softer" than they were four to five months ago. "We're almost always a buyer of stocks," he said. "It's hard to think about many months when we weren't a net buyer of stocks." The Oracle of Omaha also provided his views on everything from individual stocks IBM , Dow Chemical , and Wells Fargo , just to name a few to the presidential nomination race, to the privacy battle between the government and Apple two days after releasing his annual letter. Here is a roundup of CNBC's Buffett interview: Following are excerpts from a CNBC interview with Nancy Hulgrave and Matthias Muller, Volkswagen CEO (via a translator). NH: Let's start again if we may, talking about the new deadline that was set by a US judge - he's saying March 24th you must present another fix for the diesel cars in the United States. Are you confident that you can reach that deadline? MM: Yes, we've worked hard to develop this package that we want to offer and to develop it in a reliable and comprehensive manner. Our colleagues will now be locally on the ground working to achieve this deadline to discuss the content of this package with the authorities and then we'll see what the result will be. NH: And if the deadline is not reached if the regulators in the United States once again reject your proposal, at that point, do buy-backs become an inevitable option? MM: Well there's a host of possibilities: buy-backs, recalls of the vehicles, other options. As I've said, I don't want to pre-empt results here but I am confident that we will reach a solution together. NH: And so much of what happens in the United States regarding the recall process and the fix there will have an impact on your financial results. We now know that the financial results have been delayed. Do you know when they will be released and can they be released until you have a resolution in the United States? MM: Ideally, we should wait for the result on the US at the publication of the financial statements -- we've postponed the annual general meeting because we want to improve the quality of our annual result and the result of the negotiation in the US, of course, has an important effect here. NH: Are you expecting that you will have to increase the provisions that you have already set aside, some 7 billion so? MM: Until now these 6.7 billions were provisioned for the recall and we assume and are confident that the number of -- or the volume of -- the provisions needs to be increased. But, to mention figures at the moment would be speculation. NH: We've talked about the financial impact related to the actual fix in the United States, but you're also facing this 46 billion potential lawsuit from the Justice Department. You said those talks are progressing, what exactly does that mean? Are you confident that an eventual settlement will be much lower than that figure? MM: I am not confident but I hope, of course, because our calculations lead to different results of course. These 46 billion or any other figure at this point in time would be paramount to speculation and we will not comment on that. NH: But when you look at other automakers, Toyota and General Motors, for example, who had settlements with the Justice Department in the neighbourhood of 1 billion, for incidents that really cost lives on a severe level here. Do you fear that your punishment is disproportionate to the crime. MM: I assume that the American authorities will be stringent but fair. So I believe a figure which you've mentioned is much too high. But as I stated, I will not partake in speculation at this juncture and I assume that we will reach an amicable agreement NH: And whatever the financial cost eventually will be from this incident, even before the case broke, we knew that you were looking at way to improve profitability to catch up with some of your rivals in this space. What options are on the table specifically when we talk about negotiations with the Works Council? When we talk about wages and potential job cuts? MM: Well, Volkswagen first of all is financially a very health company indeed. The many years we were very successful indeed and will continue to be so. Naturally, we'll have to wait for the consequences of the diesel crisis and use the aftermath to accelerate the reorganisation of the companies. There are many approaches to this affect. We do not want to be paralysed by this crisis, but take this impetus to become a better and more modern Volkswagen and we'll do that particularly by tackling electro-mobility, connectedness, digital renewal and autonomous driving NH: But we know you're getting ready for labour negotiations in the spring, it's already been rumoured that various parties within the Works Council are resistant to any changes in wages. How difficult is the strong influence of the Works Council making your efforts right now? MM: Right, the negotiations will be begun in the course of the year. We do not have a proposal from the labour side on the table yet but I can tell you that the labour representatives in this co-determination company work very fairly on this whole issue and they are very level headed indeed, and they are willing to support the reorganisation of our company actively and in a positive manner. NH: Other potential options when you talk about reducing your costs -- one being investment. Now many were surprised that you did not reduce your investment plans by even more than some had expected, but you did hint that going beyond this year, we could see a reduction. What kind of a reduction are your forecasting? MM: In a company that works well it is usual to set priorities of course. So first investments in our products of course and the future of our products will be undertaken, I've given you some examples for this and some infrastructure measure don't have to be discontinued but maybe postponed for one of two years. And these tasks is something we are considering carefully and we do that in conjunction with all those concerned. NH: And you have reiterated several times now that you are not considering a spin-off of any of your 12 brands but once again we're hearing speculation of talks through of various options within your trucks unit. Are you in active discussions for a spin-off of even a part of the trucks business? MM: I cannot confirm that. You've quoted a speculation yourself and I see that as mere speculation as well. And again, there are discussions cropping up in the general population but we don't intend to sell off one of our 12 valuable companies. WHEN: Today, Monday, February 29th WHERE: CNBC's "Squawk Alley" Following is the unofficial transcript of a FIRST ON CNBC interview with Apple attorney Ted Boutrous on CNBC's "Squawk Alley" (M-F, 11AM-12PM ET) today, Monday, February 29th. All references must be sourced to CNBC. CARL QUINTANILLA: THE ONGOING BATTLE BETWEEN APPLE AND THE FBI WILL HEAT UP AGAIN TOMORROW AS THE HOUSE JUDICIARY COMMITTEE IS SET TO HOLD A HEARING ON ENCRYPTED DEVICES. APPLE'S GENERAL COUNSEL IS EXPECTED TO TESTIFY IN A FIRST ON CNBC INTERVIEWS, WE'RE JOINED BY APPLE'S ATTORNEY TED BOUTROUS IN LOS ANGELES, AND OUR JOSH LIPTON IN SAN FRANCISCO. JOSH, TAKE IT AWAY. JOSH LIPTON: TED, THANK YOU FOR JOINING US THIS MORNING. TED BOUTROUS: THANK YOU FOR HAVING ME. IT'S GOOD TO BE WITH YOU. LIPTON: SO TED, THE GOVERNMENT'S ARGUMENT HERE IS, LISTEN, WE'RE SIMPLY ASKING APPLE FOR HELP WITH A SINGLE PHONE IN A SINGLE CASE. IS THAT ACCURATE, TED? BOUTROUS: THAT IS NOT ACCURATE. THEY SAY JUST THIS ONE TIME, JUST THIS PHONE. BUT FIRST, YOU HAVE PROSECUTORS STATE AND LOCAL PROSECUTORS LINING UP. CY VANCE, THE DISTRICT ATTORNEY IN NEW YORK SAYS HE HAS SOMETHING LIKE 175 PHONES. HE ABSOLUTELY BELIEVES APPLE SHOULD BE REQUIRED TO ASSIST AND CREATE SOFTWARE AND CREATE A BACK DOOR THAT WOULD ALLOW NEW YORK TO ACCESS THOSE PHONES. YOU ALSO HAVE THE FACT THAT THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT IS GOING -- HAS GOT TEN OTHER MATTERS PENDING AGAINST APPLE ALONE. SO IT'S JUST WRONG TO SAY THAT. AND I'LL ADD ONE MORE POINT. THE DIRECTOR OF THE FBI, JAMES COMEY, HAS SAID THIS IS ONE OF THE HARDEST ISSUES HE'S EVER FACED IN GOVERNMENT. AND IT'S A BROAD POLICY QUESTION. IT'S NOT ONE LEGAL CASE. IT'S JUST NOT APPROPRIATE TO DEAL WITH THIS THROUGH AN ACTION IN COURT. THIS IS A POLITICAL AND POLICY QUESTION THAT CONGRESS IS GOING TO HAVE TO FACE. LIPTON: AND TED, AT THE HEART OF THIS CASE IS THE ALL WRITS ACT, THIS CENTURIES' OLD LAW THAT HAS BEEN USED TO COMPEL COMPANIES TO ASSIST THE GOVERNMENT. BUT YOU ARGUE THAT THE GOVERNMENT'S INTERPRETATION OF THE THE ALL WRITS ACT OVERREACHES A GOES TOO FAR. CAN YOU WALK US THROUGH THAT POSITION, TED? BOUTROUS: I CAN, JOSH. IT'S A VERY IMPORTANT POINT. THE ALL WRITS ACT WAS FIRST ENACTED IN 1789. SO THE -- NO ONE WAS THINKING ABOUT USING IT TO COMPEL A COMPANY LIKE APPLE TO WRITE SOFTWARE IN ORDER TO ALLOW THE GOVERNMENT TO HACK INTO A DEVICE LIKE THE iPHONE. SO IT'S REALLY AN OUTMODED STATUTE. BUT IT'S ONLY MEANT TO ALLOW COURTS TO BASICALLY FILL IN THE GAPS OF THE AUTHORITY THEY ALREADY HAVE. IT'S NOT MEANT TO ALLOW THE COURTS AT THE GOVERNMENT'S REQUEST TO RECOGNIZE A WHOLE NEW POWER. AND THE GOVERNMENT IN THIS CASE HAS SAID, WELL WE'VE DONE THIS BEFORE. WE'VE USED THE STATUTE BEFORE IN THIS WAY. IT'S JUST NOT TRUE. NORMALLY, THE ALL WRITS ACT HAS BEEN USED TO ALLOW COURTS TO COMPEL PRODUCTION AND SUPPLYING OF INFORMATION THAT ALREADY EXISTS TO THE GOVERNMENT. HERE THE GOVERNMENT IS ASKING THE COURT TO COMPEL APPLE TO WRITE NEW SOFTWARE THAT WOULD -- HAS NEVER EXISTED THAT APPLE THINKS IS DANGEROUS TO HAVE EXIST, BECAUSE IT WOULD THEN BE SUBJECT TO HACKERS, CRIMINALS, TERRORISTS AND THEFT BY THEM AND MISUSE BY THEM, WHICH THREATENS THE SECURITY OF HUNDREDS OF MILLIONS OF PEOPLE AROUND THE GLOBE. AND SO TO USE THIS STATUTE FOR THOSE PURPOSES WOULD BE IMPROPER, WOULD VIOLATE THE SEPARATION OF POWERS. IT WOULD HAVE THE COURT RESOLVING THIS POLICY QUESTION ABOUT ENCRYPTION THAT IS RAGING ACROSS THE COUNTRY. THAT'S SOMETHING FOR CONGRESS, NOT FOR THE COURTS TO DO -- USING THE ALL WRITS ACT. JON FORTT: TED, IT'S JON FORTT HERE IN NEW YORK. DIG INTO THIS ARGUMENT, IF YOU WILL, ABOUT IT BEING DANGEROUS TO HAVE THIS SOFTWARE EXIST. BECAUSE A LOT OF PEOPLE HAVE SAID, WELL, JUST CREATE THE SOFTWARE, KEEP IT IN CUPERTINO, LET APPLE BE THE ONLY ONES WITH ACCESS TO IT. IS APPLE CONCERNED THAT THE PEOPLE WHO CREATE THE SOFTWARE, IT'S STILL IN THEIR MINDS, AND THEY COULD RECREATE IT SOMEWHERE ELSE IF COMPELLED TO? ARE THEY CONCERNED THEIR OWN SYSTEMS COULD BE HACKED OR MIGHT ALREADY BE INFILTRATED, SAY, BY FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS? WHAT -- WHY IS THIS SO DANGEROUS? BOUTROUS: WELL, AS OUR ENGINEER LAID OUT IN HIS AFFIDAVIT AND THE COURT FILING WE MADE LAST WEEK, SOFTWARE AND CODE IS PERSISTENT. IT'S NOT GOING TO GO AWAY, EVEN IF APPLE WERE TO DESTROY IT AFTER THE FBI HAD ACCESS TO THIS iPHONE. AND THE OTHER THING IS THAT OTHER GOVERNMENTS, STATE, LOCAL, FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS, ARE GOING TO COME BACK AND SAY, DO IT AGAIN. AND SO IT'S NOT GOING TO DISAPPEAR. YOU CAN'T MAKE THIS SOFTWARE GO AWAY. AND AS YOU ALL KNOW, DATA IS UNDER ASSAULT. CRIMINALS, TERRORISTS, HACKERS, ARE TRYING TO BREAK INTO EVERYONE'S DATA. THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT CAN'T KEEP CONTROL OF ITS OWN DATA. SO THERE ARE ALL SORTS OF RISKS. IT'S -- TIM COOK HAS NOTED THIS WOULD BE LIKE CREATING A MASTER KEY THAT COULD THEN BE EITHER RECREATED OR PULLED OFF THE SHELF AND USED OVER AND OVER AGAIN. AND EVERY TIME THAT HAPPENS, IT'S GOING TO CREATE A RISK, A SECURITY RISK. AND SO THE GOVERNMENT IS TRYING TO PORTRAY THIS AS NATIONAL SECURITY AND LAW ENFORCEMENT AGAINST OTHER INTERESTS, BUT THEY OVERLOOK THE SECURITY INTERESTS OF CITIZENS, THEIR DATA. SO WE DO THINK THIS IS A VERY SIGNIFICANT RISK. AND THAT WE'RE BETTER OFF PROTECTING DATA AND NOT CREATING THIS TOOL, WHICH WE THINK WOULD BE DANGEROUS TO EVERYONE. QUINTANILLA: TED, YOU MENTIONED THE FOREIGN GOVERNMENT ELEMENT OF ALL OF THIS. HOW MUCH OF THE LEGAL CALCULUS AT THE COMPANY IS AIMED AT PREVENTING A SNOWBALLING EFFECT ONCE THIS MOVES TO THE U.K. ONCE THIS MOVES TO CHINA AND OTHER PARTS OF THE WORLD? BOUTROUS: IT REALLY IS AN IMPORTANT POINT. AGAIN, THE GOVERNMENT SAYS JUST DO IT THIS ONE TIME. JUST THIS ONE PHONE. BUT YOU KNOW THAT THE GOVERNMENTS AROUND THE WORLD WILL SAY, IF YOU CAN DO IT IN THE U.S., WHERE THE PROTECTIONS OF PRIVACY AND INDIVIDUAL RIGHTS ARE REALLY AT THEIR ZENITH, WE HAVE THE STRONGEST PROTECTIONS ANYWHERE IN THE WORLD OF CIVIL LIBERTIES. AND IF APPLE WERE WILLING TO DO THIS IN THIS ONE -- THIS PARTICULAR CASE, EVERY OTHER COUNTRY IS GOING TO SAY, WELL THEN YOU HAVE TO DO IT FOR US. YOU HAVE TO CREATE OR LET US USE THAT SOFTWARE THAT YOU'VE CREATED TO ACCESS THE DATA OF CITIZENS IN OUR COUNTRY. SO THAT IS A VERY SERIOUS CONCERN. AND, AGAIN, I THINK IT'S INACCURATE FOR THE DIRECTOR COMEY AND OTHERS TO SAY THIS IS A ONE-TIME SHOT. THEY KNOW THAT PROSECUTORS ARE LINING UP HERE IN THE UNITED STATES, AND AROUND THE WORLD. SO IT'S A VERY SERIOUS CONCERN, CARL. LIPTON: AND TED, WE HAVE SEEN A LOT OF BIG TECH COMPANIES NOW SUPPORTING APPLE, RIGHT? SO MICROSOFT, FACEBOOK, GOOGLE. WHY IS THAT KIND OF SUPPORT FROM BIG TECH IMPORTANT IN THIS CASE, AND DO YOU EXPECT OTHER TECH COMPANIES TO RALLY TO YOUR SIDE, AS WELL? BOUTROUS: IT'S VERY IMPORTANT. I THINK, ONE, IT GOES TO THIS POINT THAT THIS ISN'T JUST ONE EPISODE. THAT IT'S NOT JUST THIS ONE EVENT. THIS REQUEST BY THE GOVERNMENT, THE ORDER THAT THEY'RE SEEKING, HAS WIDESPREAD GLOBAL REPERCUSSIONS FOR TECH COMPANIES AND OTHER COMPANIES AROUND THE WORLD. SO IT'S VERY IMPORTANT. I THINK IT DEMONSTRATES THAT FACT. WE'RE VERY PLEASED THAT WE'RE GOING TO HAVE A STRONG SHOWING FROM AN ARRAY OF COMPANIES, CIVIL LIBERTIES GROUPS, OTHERS THIS WEEK WHO WILL FILE BRIEFS IN COURT, SUPPORTING APPLE'S POSITION AND SAYING YOU CAN'T GO DOWN THIS ROAD. WE HAVE COMPETING INTERESTS HERE. THE INTEREST IN PROTECTING THE SECURITY OF THE DATA OF MILLIONS OF CITIZENS IS AN EXTREMELY IMPORTANT INTEREST, AND I THINK THAT IT WILL BE IMPORTANT FOR THE COURT TO HEAR THOSE VOICES, TO HEAR FROM OTHER COMPANIES, CIVIL LIBERTARIANS, MEDIA ORGANIZATIONS, AND OTHERS SAYING THIS IS A FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLE. IT'S PART OF OUR DEMOCRACY, IT'S PART OF OUR SYSTEM. WE HAVE TO PROTECT THAT INTEREST, THOSE INTERESTS SECURITY, PRIVACY OF CITIZENS EVEN IN A DIFFICULT SITUATION LIKE THIS. AND TO THE EXTENT THERE ARE GOING TO BE CHANGES AND THAT THE LAW IS GOING TO BE CHANGED TO GIVE COURTS THIS SWEEPING POWER, THAT'S SOMETHING THAT CONGRESS NEEDS TO CONSIDER, AND THERE'S GOING TO BE A HEARING TOMORROW, AS YOU NOTED AT THE OUTSET. LIPTON: AND I WANT TO TOUCH ON THAT POINT, TED. ARE YOU SUGGESTING THAT THESE ISSUES HERE ARE JUST SO BIG, SO COMPLEX AND CRITICAL, THAT IT SHOULDN'T BE HANDLED BY JUDGES THAT CONGRESS DOES, IN YOUR OPINION, NEED TO HAVE A MUCH MORE ACTIVE ROLE? BOUTROUS: ABSOLUTELY. AND RELATED TO THE ALL WRITS ACT POINT THAT YOU ASKED ME ABOUT, JOSH, THE SEPARATION OF POWERS DOCTRINE, WHICH IS REALLY IMPORTANT HERE, SAYS THAT COURTS ARE TO DECIDE CASES AND UNDER THE LAW, AND UNDER THE POWERS THAT CONGRESS GIVES THEM. COURTS ARE NOT SUPPOSED TO BASICALLY CREATE NEW LAW. WHAT THE GOVERNMENT IS ASKING THE COURT TO DO IS TO ESSENTIALLY AMEND THE EXISTING STATUTES, TO GIVE THE GOVERNMENT MORE AUTHORITY TO PERSUADE COURTS TO REQUIRE THAT THE COMPANIES BASICALLY DO NEW SOFTWARE, WRITE NEW SOFTWARE, TO DECRYPT THEIR OWN TO ALLOW THE GOVERNMENT TO DECRYPT THEIR OWN PRODUCTS. THAT WOULD BE A SIGNIFICANT CHANGE IN THE LAW, AND THAT'S SOMETHING CONGRESS NEEDS TO LOOK AT. WE THINK THAT CONGRESS, WHEN IT DOES LOOK AT IT, WILL SAY THAT AUTHORITY SHOULDN'T BE GRANTED. BUT THAT'S SOMETHING THAT CONGRESS NEEDS TO LOOK AT, AND DEAL WITH IT THROUGH THE LEGISLATIVE PROCESS, NOT THE JUDICIAL PROCESS. LIPTON: IN THAT JUDICIAL PROCESS, THOUGH, TED, YOU KNOW, A BIG DATE TO CIRCLE IS MARCH 22ND. IT IS WHEN YOU'LL BE BACK IN COURT IN RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA. WHAT SHOULD WE EXPECT THAT DAY? BOUTROUS: IT'S GOING TO BE A VERY IMPORTANT DAY. WE'LL BE BEFORE THE MAGISTRATE JUDGE, AND BOTH SIDES WILL HAVE THE OPPORTUNITY TO LAY OUT THEIR ARGUMENTS, AND TALK ABOUT THE EVIDENCE AND TALK ABOUT THE LAW HERE. AND WE OBVIOUSLY WILL ARGUE THAT THE LAW DOES NOT EXTEND THIS FAR. THERE IS THE FACT THAT THE COURTS ARE NOT ALLOWED TO ORDER INDIVIDUALS TO SPEAK. THIS IS A FORM OF COMPELLED SPEECH. WRITING CODE IS A FORM OF SPEECH. AND HERE, THE ARGUMENTS WILL BE LAID OUT BY THE GOVERNMENT AS TO WHY THEY THINK THEY NEED TO ACCESS THIS INFORMATION AND WHY THEY THINK THE GOVERNMENT HAS THE POWER TO DO THIS. AND WE'RE GOING TO ARGUE THAT THE COURT SIMPLY DOES NOT HAVE THAT AUTHORITY, AND THAT IT WOULD BE DANGEROUS TO GO DOWN THIS ROAD. FORTT: TED, DO YOU EXPECT LIPTON: WHAT DO YOU MAKE, TED, I'M INTERESTED I'M SORRY, GO AHEAD, JON. FORTT: TED, DO YOU EXPECT THIS TO GO TO THE SUPREME COURT? DOES IT NEED TO REACH THAT LEVEL BECAUSE OF THE LACK OF PRECEDENT IN SO MANY OF THESE AREAS THAT WE'RE TALKING ABOUT HERE. THE FACT THAT SOFTWARE HAS BECOME SUCH A PROMINENT FEATURE IN AMERICAN LIFE, AND THAT THESE ISSUES OF DATA SECURITY HAVE TAKEN ON GLOBAL IMPORT. BOUTROUS: THESE ARE BIG ISSUES. AND THE SUPREME COURT HAS LOOKED AT ISSUES SIMILAR TO THIS AND HAS RECOGNIZED IN A RECENT CASE THAT THE GOVERNMENT CITED, ACTUALLY, THAT IT'S INACCURATE TO JUST THINK OF THESE AS PHONES. THESE DEVICES. THE iPHONE. BECAUSE IT HAS EVERY DETAIL OF A PERSON'S LIFE. IT'S WHO YOU ARE IS ON THE PHONE. AND THE SUPREME COURT HAS SHOWN A GREAT SENSITIVITY TO PROTECTING THE PRIVACY RIGHTS OF CITIZENS. AND THAT CUTS ACROSS THE IDEOLOGICAL SPECTRUM, TOO. SO I THINK THESE ISSUES COULD WELL END UP IN THE SUPREME COURT. BUT FROM OUR PERSPECTIVE, WE'RE IN THE NINTH CIRCUIT COURT OF APPEALS, WHICH HAS VERY STRONG CASE AUTHORITY THAT SUPPORTS OUR POSITION, BOTH IN TERMS OF THE REACH OF THE ALL WRITS ACT OR THE LACK OF REACH. AND IT'S VERY PROTECTIVE OF CIVIL LIBERTIES. SO WE FEEL THAT THE COURTS ARE GOING TO HAVE TO BE LOOKING AT THESE ISSUES, AND WE'RE, I THINK, CREATING A RECORD IN THIS CASE THAT WILL PUT US IN GOOD POSITION IF THE CASE MOVES FORWARD AND THE GOVERNMENT KEEPS PRESSING THESE ISSUES. QUINTANILLA: TED, A LOT OF PEOPLE STILL ASK, YOU KNOW, TECHNOLOGY ALWAYS EVOLVES. WHY CAN'T LAW ENFORCEMENT'S ABILITY TO LEVERAGE IT ALSO EVOLVE? IN OTHER WORDS, YOU CAN'T HAVE WIRETAPS UNTIL THE TELEPHONE CAME ALONG. WHY CAN'T WE HAVE THE KIND OF CODE THE GOVERNMENT WANTS NOW THAT, IN FACT, ENCRYPTION HAS BECOME SO PERVASIVE? BOUTROUS: WELL, THAT IS REALLY THE ISSUE, I THINK, THAT CONGRESS WILL NEED TO ADDRESS. AND YOU'RE RIGHT, THAT AS TECHNOLOGY DEVELOPS, CONGRESS AMENDS STATUTES, ENACTS STATUTES, TO ADJUST TO THESE ISSUES THAT ARISE THROUGH EVOLVING TECHNOLOGY. THAT'S TRUE. BUT I WANT TO MAKE ONE POINT CLEAR. APPLE HAS COOPERATED AND SUPPORTS LAW ENFORCEMENT EFFORTS UNDER THE CURRENT LAW. IN THIS CASE, IN THE SAN BERNARDINO CASE, THE COMPANY WORKED VERY HARD TO RESPOND TO THE GOVERNMENT'S REQUEST UNDER THE LAW. SO THERE'S NO QUESTION THAT COMPANIES LIKE APPLE HAVE AN OBLIGATION TO HELP LAW ENFORCEMENT WHEN IT'S REQUIRED UNDER THE LAW. BUT HERE THIS IS REALLY EXTRAORDINARY. THE GOVERNMENT WANTS THE AUTHORITY TO REQUIRE THE COMPANY TO CREATE A DEGRADED VERSION OF ITS OWN PRODUCT. THAT IS SOMETHING IT SHOULDN'T BE PERMITTED. BUT THOSE ARE THE KIND OF ISSUES IN TERMS OF THE INTERSECTION OF TECHNOLOGY, CIVIL LIBERTIES, LAW ENFORCEMENT, THAT NEEDS TO BE LOOKED AT BY LAWMAKERS. IT'S JUST NOT AN ISSUE FOR A COURT TO DECIDE IN ONE PARTICULAR CASE, WHICH COULD HAVE SIGNIFICANT RAMIFICATIONS FOR ALL CITIZENS EVERYWHERE. LIPTON: AND FINAL QUESTION, TED. YOU KNOW, AND I WANT TO GIVE YOU THE CHANCE TO ADDRESS THIS ARGUMENT. I'VE HEARD SOME ARGUE THAT, LISTEN, ULTIMATELY, WHAT THE GOVERNMENT IS ASKING FOR IS A LOT LIKE WHEN THE GOVERNMENT ASKS FOR E-MAILS OR FOR PHONE RECORDS FROM A COMPANY LIKE AT&T. IS THAT A FAIR COMPARISON, TED? BOUTROUS: THAT REALLY GOES TO THE HEART OF THE PROBLEM WITH THE GOVERNMENT'S ARGUMENT. IT'S NOT A FAIR COMPARISON. APPLE PRODUCED INFORMATION LIKE THAT TO THE GOVERNMENT IN THIS VERY MATTER. AND SO WHAT THE LEAP FORWARD THAT'S BEING TAKEN HERE IS THE GOVERNMENT IS ASKING THE COURT TO ORDER THE COMPANY TO WRITE NEW SOFTWARE THAT WOULD ALLOW THE GOVERNMENT THEN TO CREATE BASICALLY A DIFFERENT iPHONE SO IT CAN HACK INTO THE iPHONE. THAT IS IT'S LIGHT YEARS AWAY FROM THE KIND OF AUTHORITY THAT NORMALLY IS EXERCISED BY COURTS AND THE KIND OF REQUESTS THE GOVERNMENT MAKES. SO THAT'S WHY IT'S COMPLETELY UNFAIR TO SUGGEST, WELL, THIS HAPPENS ALL OF THE TIME. IT'S NEVER HAPPENED BEFORE. IT IS AN EXTRAORDINARY REQUEST. AND IT WOULD HAVE AN IMPACT ON THE SECURITY AND PRIVACY OF EVERY PERSON WHO HAS AN iPHONE OR OTHER DEVICE. AND SO THAT'S WHY WE THINK THIS IS SUCH AN IMPORTANT ISSUE, AND EVERYONE NEEDS TO KNOW THE FULL STORY. LIPTON: WELL, TED, THANK YOU SO MUCH FOR YOUR TIME THIS MORNING, SIR. WE DO APPRECIATE IT. BOUTROUS: THANKS SO MUCH FOR HAVING ME. About CNBC: With CNBC in the U.S., CNBC in Asia Pacific, CNBC in Europe, Middle East and Africa, CNBC World and CNBC HD , CNBC is the recognized world leader in business news and provides real-time financial market coverage and business information to approximately 371 million homes worldwide, including more than 100 million households in the United States and Canada. CNBC also provides daily business updates to 400 million households across China. The network's 15 live hours a day of business programming in North America (weekdays from 4:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m. ET) is produced at CNBC's global headquarters in Englewood Cliffs, N.J., and includes reports from CNBC News bureaus worldwide. CNBC at night features a mix of new reality programming, CNBC's highly successful series produced exclusively for CNBC and a number of distinctive in-house documentaries. CNBC also has a vast portfolio of digital products which deliver real-time financial market news and information across a variety of platforms. These include CNBC.com, the online destination for global business; CNBC PRO, the premium, integrated desktop/mobile service that provides real-time global market data and live access to CNBC global programming; and a suite of CNBC Mobile products including the CNBC Real-Time iPhone and iPad Apps. Members of the media can receive more information about CNBC and its programming on the NBC Universal Media Village Web site at http://www.nbcumv.com/mediavillage/networks/cnbc/. Anshu Jain, former co-chief executive officer of Deutsche Bank AG, gestures as he speaks during the Bloomberg Markets Most Influential Summit in London, U.K. on Tuesday, Oct. 6, 2015. Jason Alden | Bloomberg | Getty Images Anshu Jain, the former co-chief executive of Deutsche Bank, is to join online lender SoFi as an adviser in his first venture since he left Germany's biggest bank at the end of last year. In joining SoFi, a San Francisco-based company best known for refinancing student loans, Mr Jain becomes the latest in a succession of former big-bank chief executives exploring the emerging world of financial technology. Vikram Pandit, once of Citigroup, and John Mack, formerly of Morgan Stanley, have developed portfolios of investments in small but fast-growing companies seeking to challenge traditional brick-and-mortar lenders. SoFi, which has raced to about $8bn of funded loans since its founding in San Francisco in 2011, has styled itself as a scrappy upstart taking on some tarnished giants. Chief executive Mike Cagney a former banker at Wells Fargo has said that the likes of JPMorgan Chase, Bank of America and Citi have become "commoditised utilities of questionable value and little trust", and that smaller, nimbler groups such as SoFi are better equipped to meet customers' needs. watch now Mr Cagney told the Financial Times that Mr Jain's experience should be valuable as SoFi looks to broaden its sources of funds beyond securitisation programmes and sales of loans to banks. As a non-bank, SoFi cannot rely on deposits, so it has to go out and seek other forms of capital. "We're in dialogue with insurance companies, pensions and sovereigns, talking about ways they can participate in our growth," said Mr Cagney. "There are lots of ways to structure those relationships, to make sure the structure benefits everyone participating." More from The Financial Times : Investor appetite for London luxury flats ebbs Trump has the White House in his sights Beijing muzzles tycoon critic known as The Cannon Mr Jain's appointment comes at a testing time for the marketplace lenders, which have steadily chipped away at the dominance of the traditional lenders over the past few years. While industry growth still remains rapid, regulatory hurdles are beginning to emerge while delinquencies have begun to pick up among some of the riskier classes of borrowers. Shares in Lending Club, the largest listed online lender, which specialises in personal unsecured loans, have lost 60 per cent of their value over the past 12 months, ranking among the bottom three on the Russell 1000 financials index. Remember Yanis Varoufakis? The Greek Marxist economist and fiery former finance minister was one of the more colorful personalities to emerge from Greece's latest euro zone crisis. Now, he's using the skills that cost him his job and brought Greece close to leaving the euro zone to help out a U.K. political party. The leader of the U.K.'s left-wing Labour party, Jeremy Corbyn, revealed to his local London paper that Varoufakis had met with shadow chancellor John McDonnell and would advise the party "in some capacity." Yanis Varoufakis Milos Bicanski | Getty Images In an interview with the Islington Tribune, which is based in Corbyn's London constituency, the anti-austerity Labour leader said he was interested in Varoufakis because of his experience in Europe. "Varoufakis is interesting, because he has obviously been through all the negotiations [with ECB, European Commission and the International Monetary Fund]. I think the way Greece has been treated is terrible and we should reach out to them." Veteran leftwing politician Corybn unexpectedly rose to prominence last year when he became Labour leader after the party's poor performance in a general election, creating a seismic shift in the party and British politics. Similarly, Greece's former finance minister rose to fame (or infamy) at the height of the country's financial crisis in 2015 when Greece came close to exiting the euro zone. He was seen as the right-hand man of Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, spearheading the governing Syriza party's anti-austerity policies. For this reason, however, he riled the country's international creditors at a crucial time for Greece when it was trying to renegotiate the terms of its multi-billion euro bailout. Varoufakis was seen as a key obstacle to progress in talks, having riled his fellow euro zone finance ministers - in particular his German counterpart Wolfgang Schaeuble. Despite the Greek people rejecting more austerity measures from lenders in a referendum last July, Varoufakis stepped down from his role a few days afterwards following pressure from what he called Greece's "assorted partners." While the super delegates may be causing trouble for the Democrats, the exact opposite development is occurring on the Republican side of the ledger. The Republicans were so successful in winning the presidency in the early primary and caucus years (1968-1988), that the party didn't need to create the same type of structure. The Republicans do have unpledged delegates 168 members of the Republican National Committee but they make up less than 7 percent of the total convention. While the Democratic super delegates got a lot of press in the past, these unpledged RNC members are almost never mentioned. But now, all the current plans to stop Donald Trump revolve around intricate delegate math. While Trump is slowly gaining the backing of significant elected officials, a large percentage of elected Republicans seem to be taking a strong stand against their possible nominee. These Republicans must be wishing for they had the super delegate powers to stop Trump in his tracks. Of course, even if they had super delegate status, there is every reason to believe it wouldn't be used. The backlash against party elites overturning the perceived will of the primary and caucus voters is dangerous enough. It would be greatly enhanced in Trump's case, whose campaign is fueled by voters who are upset about the power and decisions of the party regulars. To have the leaders swoop in and take the nomination away because they know best could result in a disastrous turn for the party. The actual power of the super delegates has yet to be seen in any nomination fight. If the Democratic race tightens, it could be that Hillary Clinton will be very happy that the party carved out this group, much as the Republicans may wish they had this usurping power. But the potential backlash for either party makes the super delegates an ace in the hole that is always best not to be played. Clinton came close to ending the Democratic race with her emphatic, 47 percentage point victory over Vermont U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders on Saturday in South Carolina. Sanders on Tuesday will likely take his home state of Vermont and has a chance in Oklahoma, Minnesota, Massachusetts and Colorado. Two things are likely to happen as voters in a dozen states head to the polls on Super Tuesday: Hillary Clinton will further cement her likely Democratic nominee status and Donald Trump will move closer to becoming the GOP standard-bearer that few in the party establishment want. But even in those states, the delegates will get split up pretty evenly so Clinton's big lead (aided by super delegates) will only keep growing. Clinton already leads Sanders by 544 to 85 delegates after the first four contests. She will build on that lead Tuesday and probably put the nomination out of reach by March 15 which features contests in Florida and Ohio. She needs 2,383 delegates to lock up the nomination. On the Republican side, despite frantic efforts by the establishment and ideological conservatives, Trump's momentum shows few signs of slowing. A national CNN/ORC poll out Monday showed Trump at 49 percent, 33 points ahead of Florida Sen. Marco Rubio at 16 percent with Texas Sen. Ted Cruz at 15 percent. Those numbers suggest none of the remaining GOP candidates could take down Trump, even if they somehow get him one-on-one. Trump could come close to running the table Tuesday. He holds big leads in state polls from Massachusetts to Alabama. Cruz should be able to win his home state of Texas, though polling is all over the map in the Lone Star State. Should Cruz lose Texas to Trump, it would effectively end his campaign. That would likely be the ideal result for Rubio, who is counting on a smaller field to give him a clearer shot at the front-runner. The Florida U.S. senator, who is on a scorched-earth campaign to discredit Trump as a "con man," will face his biggest test on March 15 when his home state votes in a winner-take-all primary with 99 delegates at stake. If Rubio can't beat Trump in Florida the race will effectively be over, though some Republicans hope to still deny Trump the 1,237 delegates needed to lock up the nomination before the GOP convention in Cleveland. Rubio is not expected to win a single state Tuesday. He hopes only to keep it close and beat Cruz outside of Texas while continuing to add to his delegate count which currently stands at 16 to 82 for Trump and 17 for Cruz. Under the brokered convention scenario, Trump will lead on the first ballot but without a majority. Then delegates will be free to move to other candidates such as Rubio or Cruz. In the unlikeliest of outcomes, the party turns to a consensus candidate not currently in the race like House Speaker Paul Ryan or 2012 GOP nominee Mitt Romney. These scenarios exist mostly in the fever dreams of an establishment terrified of a nominee with sky-high national negative ratings who spent Sunday declining on national television to issue a clear denunciation of former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke. watch now JPMorgan Chase sacked the head of its government debt trading desk and another employee after they allegedly circumvented the bank's compliance procedures following a disagreement in valuing certain trades, said people familiar with the matter. Andrew Lombara, then head of US Treasury trading at the bank, and Chi Lee, a junior Treasury trader, both left the bank in early January but the reasons for their departure were not disclosed publicly. The traders and the bank's valuation committee disagreed over the amount of reserves taken for certain Treasury trades known as strips, the Financial Times has learnt. The JPMorgan traders wanted to increase the size of the reserve and went around the valuation committee to do so, said people familiar with the matter. JPMorgan believed this subsequent move violated internal bank procedures and fired the traders, they added. In filings submitted to the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (Finra) on January 8 about each man, JPMorgan wrote: "The Firm determined that the employee did not adhere to certain control processes." watch now Finra told the Financial Times that it was in the early stages of examining the traders' dismissal. "As with other terminations like theirs, Finra is in the process of reviewing the reason for the termination," said a spokeswoman for the Wall Street regulator. The valuation dispute came amid intense pressure on banks' fixed-income trading businesses, which have been hit by a combination of much tougher regulation, a shift to electronic platforms and prolonged bouts of risk aversion among clients. JPMorgan, the market leader in several categories, has weathered the storm better than most, but even its revenues from trading debt, currencies and commodities have dropped by almost one-fifth over the past five years. More from The Financial Times : Beijing muzzles tycoon critic known as The Cannon Anshu Jain to join online lender SoFi Europe enters the age of disintegration Strips, or "separate trading of registered interest and principal of securities", allow investors to trade interest payments derived from Treasury securities separately from the principal. They are created by banks from existing Treasuries. Banks mark Strips at fair market value, but they also set aside liquidity reserves to protect against any downside because the market trades infrequently and Strips may be hard to sell in volatile periods. Under accounting rules, the reserves are deducted from the bank's profit-and-loss statement. Lumber Liquidators on Monday reported a bigger-than-expected drop in sales for the third straight quarter as it struggles to revive demand following a report that some of its flooring laminates contained excessive levels of cancer-causing formaldehyde. Shares of Lumber Liquidators shares fell nearly 10 percent in premarket trading following the report. (Get the latest quote here.) The company on Monday also named Dennis Knowles, a former executive of home improvement chain Lowe's Cos Inc, as its chief operating officer, filling a position that has remained vacant since 2012. Lumber Liquidators' last COO was Robert Lynch, who became chief executive in 2012 but resigned last May following the scandal related to its China laminates. The company's stock and sales have been hammered since a "60 Minutes" report on CBS last March said the retailer's laminates from China contained excessive levels of formaldehyde. Lumber Liquidators got some breathing space in early February after U.S. federal tests found a low risk of cancer from some of the company's laminate flooring. But that was short lived, as two weeks later the report was revised to say the risk of cancer was three times higher than previously estimated. Lumber Liquidators said on Monday there was a decrease in both the number of customers it billed and the average sale value in the fourth quarter ended Dec. 31. Sales at Lumber Liquidators' stores open more than 12 months fell 17.2 percent in the quarter, steeper than the 12 percent drop expected by analysts polled by research firm Consensus Metrix. Net sales fell 13.7 percent to $234.8 million, coming in below analysts' average estimate of $254.5 million, according to Thomson Reuters I/B/E/S. Sales had fallen 11.3 percent and 5.8 percent in the third and second quarters, respectively. The company reported a net loss of $19.8 million, or 73 cents per share, in the latest quarter, compared with a profit of $17.3 million, or 64 cents per share, a year earlier. Lumber Liquidators' costs jumped due to higher legal expenses and a fall in the carrying value of the laminates it sourced from China, which it decided not to sell. As Americans go to the polls on Tuesday for primaries in five states, one big contingent that may wield tremendous influence is the small-business rank and file. The nation's 28 million small businesses represent 54 percent of all U.S. sales and have provided 55 percent of all jobs since the 1970s, according to the Small Business Administration. This should be a day of reckoning for the candidates as Main Street tries to get its voice heard. According to a recent Manta survey, a stunning 60 percent of small-business owners plan to vote in their state primaries and caucuses. Tuesday is a big day for the six presidential candidates in both parties to receive delegates, with voting taking place in Florida, Illinois, Missouri, North Carolina and Ohio. What's driving small-business owners to the voting booths? According to John Swanciger, CEO of Manta, a social network for small-business owners, "there are issues squeezing small-business owners from every side the economy, taxes and health care. They are looking for a candidate who understands how their sector is being impacted." Who comes out on top? So far, small-business owners said their No.1 pick is Republican candidate and business mogul Donald Trump in Manta's survey, which polled 8,292 small-business owners nationwide between Jan. 27 and Feb. 1. Thirty-eight percent said the businessman would be the best president for small business, while 21 percent said Democratic candidate Clinton would be. The top concerns for small-business owners are the economy (49 percent), taxes (18 percent), health care (10 percent) and immigration (8 percent), according to the Manta poll. Other hot-button issues: the high cost of government regulations, the minimum wage, immigration reform that would make it easier for employers to hire skilled talent from abroad through expansion of the H-1B program, and even trade policy that would affect the nation's small exporters and importers. "Small-business owners are really concerned about the economy, and only 1 in 5 feel they have recovered from the Great Recession," said Karen Kerrigan, president and CEO of the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Council, an advocacy and education organization for start-up and small-business owners. "Many of our 100,000 members tell us they are still in survival mode and they are looking at the candidates' policies to see how each plan will spur economic growth." The candidates' personal ethics and beliefs will also be a deciding factor for small-business voters. Another Manta poll, of 2,432 small-business owners nationwide, revealed that 41 percent of entrepreneurs will be influenced by a candidate's ethics and beliefs. How they stack up As the presidential election campaign picks up momentum, many entrepreneurs and small-business owners are hungry for solutions to the issues they care about. And they are looking for the candidate who is addressing their concerns best. "So far, the candidates haven't said a lot about small business," said John Arensmeyer, founder and CEO of the Small Business Majority, a network of 42,000 small-business owners. Although both former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton (D) and Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Florida) have outlined a small-business plan, most of the other candidates have made broad-brush proposals on many of the issues. Even the Clinton and Rubio plans lack some key specifics. Alexander Reichmann, 27, whose business iTestCash, in Monsey, New York, offers products for secure handling of cash, worries about the impact high taxes may have on the ability of small-business owners like himself to invest money in hiring, marketing and other areas critical to business growth. He said he isn't "running toward" any of the candidates but has been interested in Sen. Ted Cruz's (R-Texas) ideas on abolishing the IRS and adopting a flat tax. Still, he adds, "I don't know his exact plans." These election-cycle small-business issues are sharply divided along party lines. Republicans are touting tax cuts, the end of Obamacare, opposition to an increase in the minimum wage and restrictions on illegal immigration. In opposition, Democrats don't want to repeal Obamacare, but modify the law to ease mandates on small business. They want to raise taxes, increase the $7.25/hr minimum wage and ease the path to immigration (see the interactive table above for the candidates' positions on the issues). The front-runner Asked to choose among Republican candidates, 60 percent of respondents opted for Trump, while 16 percent cited Cruz and 5 percent named Rubio in the Manta poll. When it came to Democrats, 56 percent favored Clinton, and 40 percent named Sen. Bernie Sanders (D-Vermont). Trump also emerged as the front-runner in a poll by Alignable, a social network for small business, where 29 percent of owners said Donald Trump would help their business most as president. Sanders (23 percent) and Clinton (19 percent) followed Trump. Alignable commissioned SurveyMonkey to conduct its nationwide poll between Jan. 26 and Feb. 10, 2016. A big factor that has made Trump the entrepreneurial favorite is that he's a successful entrepreneur who empathizes with the challenges business owners face. His pro-business positions: cap business taxes at 15 percent and lower individual tax rates (with a top rate of 25 percent) and eliminate the estate tax so family-owned businesses can pass along assets to their heirs; repeal Obamacare and replace it; and kill free-trade agreements, like the TPP. In his widely discussed and controversial stance on immigration, Trump has proposed building a wall along the southern border of the U.S. to keep low-paid foreign labor from entering the U.S., and he has criticized the H-1B visa program that allows employers to hire temporary foreign skilled workers. Michael Miller, who runs Mindwhirl Marketing in Denver with his wife, Shelly, finds Trump's brash style a bit off-putting but believes the candidate has the experience and ability to improve the economy. "I want to win again," says Miller, who says his business hasn't fully recovered from the Great Recession, as many of his small-business clients are feeling pinched. Among the Democrats, Clinton who says she wants to be the "small-business president" is the front-runner for small business. She has promised she will give small businesses more access to capital, launch a national effort to cut red tape that is impeding small businesses, and provide targeted tax relief for small businesses with simplified tax filing. Her plan also includes providing incubators, mentoring and training to 5,000 small-business owners in underserved communities and developing entrepreneurial skills in young people. Clinton has also promised to defend the Export-Import Bank of the U.S. a quasi-government agency that helps small-business owners get trade financing which was reauthorized in December after Congress let its lending authority lapse in July. Clinton advocates "comprehensive immigration reform, with a pathway to citizenship." She has pledged to defend the Affordable Care Act and improve it to slow the growth of out-of-pocket costs. Sanders, meanwhile, has said he will encourage small-business lending by reinstating the Glass-Steagall Act, repealed during the Clinton administration. After the repeal, "local banks increasingly began to invest in risky Wall Street trading and speculation and became less inclined to make low-interest loans to small businesses," his website claims. Sanders has said he also supports increased access to entrepreneurship education, patent reform to prevent abuse by big corporations, net neutrality where Internet service providers offer equal access to all information and visa reform, which will "reject the exploitation of workers and the use of visas for cheap, foreign labor," his website says. He also supports single-payer health care. On the Republican side, the candidates have different approaches in support of Main Street. Promising on his website that he will "stand up for small-business owners," Rubio promises to cut taxes for small businesses to 25 percent, let businesses immediately expense new investments and permanently repeal the estate tax. He also said he wants to repeal Obamacare, push for accountable regulatory policies, expand production of American-made energy and impose restrictions on union activity, such as prohibiting them from deducing union dues from workers' paychecks. His stance on immigration is built around securing the border. Cruz, who announced the formation of the Small Business for Cruz Coalition in November, has proposed to eliminate the IRS and transition from the tiered federal income-tax system to a single flat tax of 10 percent. He also wants to replace the corporate tax with a 16 percent "business flat tax." When it comes to immigration, his campaign has also focused on securing the border. Ohio Gov. John Kasich has proposed reducing the number of federal tax brackets from seven to three and cutting the top personal tax rate from 39.6 percent to 28 percent and the top business rate from 35 percent to 25 percent. He also opposes the estate tax and has proposed repealing a number of mandates of the Affordable Care Act. Kasich is also an advocate of sealing the border. watch now Some investors in India's booming e-commerce industry are starting to curb their enthusiasm as valuations reach lofty levels. Morgan Stanley Institutional Fund Trust marked down 27 percent of its stake in Flipkart, India's answer to Amazon, during the December quarter, according to a Friday filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The regulatory filing showed the Morgan Stanley fund reduced its valuation of Flipkart from $80.6 million as of June, 2015 to $58.9 million in December 2015. The bank owns 566,827 shares in Flipkart. The mark down meant the value per share fell from $142.23 a share in June to $103.97 a share in December. Brent Lewin | Bloomberg | Getty Images The move by Morgan Stanley highlights how investors are increasingly skittish over tech valuations in general. The fund also reduced the value of its holdings in U.S. tech firms Palantir Technologies and Dropbox. The markdown also reflects that India isn't immune to ructions elsewhere, despite favorable demographics and a market where large chunks of the population haven't shopped on the internet yet. "This is something that many Indian startups are afraid of because Flipkart is the leader of the pack. Any negative sentiment around Flipkart is bound to create a negative impact on other startups " Bipin Preet Singh, CEO of Indian start-up MobiKwik, told CNBC. "When there's too much money chasing a few companies, valuations go out of hand," Singh said, adding investors remain bullish in India's medium to long term prospects although in the short run, new money, even with lower valuation, will be hard to come by. Morgan Stanley did not give a reason for its mark down. Flipkart did not respond to an email request for comments. Late last year, reports said Flipkart was valued at $15.2 billion and Morgan Stanley's mark down pushes that value down to $11 billion for the Indian startup. Amit Anand, founder and managing partner of Singapore-based Jungle Ventures, said the markdown was not a surprise as this is happening to many companies across the board. But such a move will not have too much impact on the Indian startup scene as alternative sources of funding exist. "I think the ecosystem is still very, very healthy," he told CNBC. "There is enough venture capital money, local money, and other sources of capital sources." watch now For traditional retailers and the malls in which they reside, the game of chicken that consumers are playing on price has had major repercussions for their sales and profitability. But for one property owner, this same shopper reticence is instead fueling its growth. As retailers across the U.S. shutter hundreds of locations sometimes leaving empty malls in their wake Tanger Factory Outlet Centers continues to break ground on new properties. Tanger Outlets in National Harbor, Md. Mark Gail | For The Washington Post | Getty Images After opening four new centers in 2015, and with two more set to open by year-end, the company that 35 years ago pioneered the outlet space is gearing up to open one or two new centers annually over the next two to three years. Tanger's road map for growth comes as traditional retailers flock to the discount space, as they try to rejuvenate slumping sales at their full-price stores. But it also comes amid concerns that retailers are relying too heavily on the outlet and off-price channels to drive sales, which could serve as a detriment to their brand equity and profitability long term. For now, at least, the economics of the outlet model support Tanger's plans. According to the International Council of Shopping Centers' Value Retail News, average center sales reached $546 per square foot in 2015, compared to $532 a foot two years earlier. "Consumers love to shop in the outlets," Steve Tanger, president and CEO of Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, told CNBC. "It's the only retail distribution channel where they can buy direct from the manufacturer and cut out the middle man." After opening locations near Memphis, Tennessee; Savannah, Georgia; Mashantucket, Connecticut; and Grand Rapids, Michigan, last year, Tanger will open a new outlet center near Columbus, Ohio, in June, and another in Daytona Beach, Florida, ahead of the holidays. Of the centers opened last year, all were at least 95 percent occupied as of the end of December. This high rate of tenancy, consistent with the North America industry average, is reflected in the company's overall financials, and contributed to its 35th straight year of 95 percent or more occupancy. "We're going carefully around the country trying to see markets that are underserved," Tanger said. The company is also identifying properties where, due to their age or changing area demographics, it can divest certain centers. In 2015, Tanger sold six of its smaller centers, which had an average age of 24 years, including a divestiture of its ownership in a joint venture partnership involving a Wisconsin property. The sales generated $166.3 million for the company, and brought down the average age of its portfolio. (Its remaining locations averaged 16 years.) Having younger properties in its portfolio means Tanger needs to spend less money revamping older properties, which sometimes might not be worth the additional cash infusion. Already in 2016, after receiving a call from a local entrepreneur, the company also completed the sale of a small center in Fort Myers, Florida, for $26 million. "We're very comfortable with the fleet that we have," Tanger said, adding that the company has no properties on the market for sale. He did note, however, that as seen with the Fort Myers property, local entrepreneurs sometimes inquire about specific properties. In all, Tanger operates 42 centers across 21 states. But while outlets are the sole focus of Tanger's portfolio, it isn't the only developer eyeing the space. According to Value Retail News, 24 outlet centers are scheduled to open in the United States this year. watch now Though such rampant growth could raise some eyebrows particularly as industry experts argue the U.S. already has too much retail space Tanger said the growth is measured. Whereas there were about 200 outlet centers in the U.S. last year, that compares to roughly 1,100 enclosed malls. "It's very controlled, rational growth," Tanger said. The fundamentals at outlets continue to improve for property owners, as more retailers view them as a method to juice up sales. Tanger last year saw a 22.4 percent increase in its average base rental rates, on top of a 23 percent rise the prior year. This lift was driven by both new tenants signing leases and renewals. Some have cautioned that rising rents in the outlet space, which by nature generate lower sales volume, could eventually come back to hurt property owners, as they could throw off the economics for retailers looking to rent space at these traditionally lower-cost properties. In that vein, Tanger's average tenant sales were flat in 2015. Still, the company's CEO emphasized that outlets have the lowest cost of occupancy in the mall sector. "We are a very profitable distribution channel for our tenant partners," he said. Traders work in trading floor of the CME Group's Chicago Board of Trade in Chicago. U.S. stocks were lower on Monday afternoon, while crude oil closed about 3 percent higher on the day. The week kicked off with the Chicago purchasing managers index coming in at 47.6, below the expected 54.0 reading. Pending home sales, meanwhile, fell 2.5 percent last month. U.S. sovereign bond prices were mixed on Monday, weighing on yields, ahead of an economic data-packed week and the closely followed jobs report on Friday. The U.S. 10-year Treasury note yield, which moves inversely to the bond's price, fell to 1.734 percent, after closing at 1.764 percent on Friday. This is down from 2.3 percent at the start of the year, as safe-haven buying has continued to weigh on yields. yields fell to 0.782 percent after rising earlier in the day. Meanwhile, the longer-dated 30-year yield fell to 2.611 percent after finishing at 2.636 percent in the previous session. Manufacturing and non-manufacturing figures from the Institute of Supply Management, due Tuesday and Thursday respectively, will also be closely watched, as will Friday's jobs report. Friday's jobs report, which is the last big piece of data ahead of the Fed's March meeting. U.S. markets could also be sensitive to global reactions to Chinese PMI manufacturing data Tuesday. China's central bank, the People's Bank of China, has cut further the reserve requirement ratio, the amount of cash the country's banks have to hold, in an attempt to calm investor jitters over the world's second-largest economy. The PBOC cut the ratio by 0.5 percentage points after the country's markets closed Monday. The cut, which comes into effect Tuesday, means that most large Chinese banks will have a reserve ratio of 17 percent, Reuters reported. The Republican presidential candidates not named Donald Trump have finally received the memo that they don't have much time to stop his juggernaut race to the GOP nomination. While Senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz finally took the gloves off last week and stepped up their attacks on the New York billionaire, they're still making a stunning mistake. Simply put, they're forgetting to bring the candy. By that, I mean that every winning candidate since the beginning of democracy has always offered the voters something that at least looks like a handout. Deserved or not deserved, people like getting something from their current or prospective political leaders. "Quid pro Quo" is an ancient phrase for a reason. It's worked for a long time. And to beat Trump, someone in the GOP field needs to combine the "get tough" persona with a little something for the people to put in their pockets. Switzerland celebrates the alpine edelweiss on a ringed-bimetallic 10-Swiss-franc coin in 2016, the first in a three-year series celebrating alpine flora. Edelweiss is the first subject of a three-coin program from Switzerland celebrating Alpine flora. The edelweiss, the alpine symbol par excellence, symbolizes beauty, desire, honesty, purity and courage. It is the first subject in a three-year commemorative coin program of 10-Swiss-franc coins. Contrary to popular belief, the alpine edelweiss is a plant found not only on steep rocky slopes. Although it grows on rocky terrain, it feels much more at home in alpine pastures, as it originated in high-altitude plateaus. Get our free report: How to Invest in Rare Coins Due to excessive picking, however, the flower was almost completely wiped out from the pastures and nowadays is often found only in areas difficult to access. Thus, finding an edelweiss in the wild is a rare stroke of luck. It is more commonly seen in tourism advertisements and on fashion items or souvenirs. Anyone bold enough to pick this rare and difficult-to-access flower for his beloved will certainly be rewarded. The star-shaped part with fuzzy, white petals (technically, bracts) that is generally considered the flower is not actually the flower but a pseudanthium. Connect with Coin World: The actual inflorescence is in the center and is rather inconspicuous, having between two and 12 similar cup-shaped flower heads with 60 to 80 pale yellow florets each. The hardy and herbaceous plant can grow to between 5 and 20 centimeters in height. The other two themes planned in the Swiss coin program are gentian and silver thistle, according to Swissmint. The obverse of this first ringed-bimetallic 10-franc coin in the series carries an Alpine Edelweiss design by artist Jenny Leibundgut. The reverse carries the common design with the denomination, nations name and other inscriptions and legends. The coin weighs 15 grams and measures 33 millimeters in diameter, having an outer ring of aluminum-bronze surrounding a copper-nickel core. An Uncirculated version has a mintage limit of 30,000 pieces and the Proof version is limited to 6,000 pieces. Distributor Royal Scandinavian Mint offers the coins to collectors in North America, but pricing is not yet determined as of press time. To order, or for more details about the coin, visit the distributors website. Feb. 29, 2016 Scott Kelly made space history on Monday (Feb. 29). You could even say it was "one giant leap (day) for a man..." The NASA astronaut, who is set to return to Earth Tuesday after almost a year in space, handed over command of the International Space Station to fellow astronaut Tim Kopra in a ceremony that just happened to fall on a leap day. "Take a leap and explore new possibilities!" Kelly wrote on Twitter. "Happy Leap Day from the space station!" It was the first time in history that control of the station had been transferred on a leap day, the extra 366th day added every four years to February to account for the difference between the Julian calendar year and how long it takes for Earth to revolve around the Sun. "The change of command ceremony on the space station means a number of things," Kelly said. "One thing it means is that some of us are going home tomorrow." "But, it also means the change of command between Tim Kopra and I of the authority on the space station, but more importantly the responsibility," he said. Change of command ceremonies on the space station are, by themselves, not that unusual. Over the past 16 years that the orbiting laboratory has been continuously crewed, there have been 46 such handovers. But, over that same period of time, there have only been four expedition crews that have been aboard the station on Feb. 29. In fact, there have been only 15 leap days in the course of the space age, which began with the launch of the world's first artificial satellite, Sputnik, in October 1957. As a result, any event that occurred in or about space on Feb. 29 has the potential to set a record. For example, the earliest leap day space milestone of note predates the beginning of the space age by more than two decades. Jack Lousma, seen here aboard space shuttle Columbia in 1982, is the only person to fly in space who was born on Feb. 29. (NASA) Jack Robert Lousma was born on Feb. 29, 1936 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Thirty years later, he was selected to be a NASA astronaut and to this day he is the only person to have been born on a leap day to fly into space. Lousma's two flights aboard the Skylab space station and the space shuttle Columbia in 1973 and 1982 respectively, were made when he was 37 and 46 years old or by leap years, when he was just 9 and 11. Monday is Lousma's 80th, or 20th, birthday. The first and only orbital launch on a leap day took place 40 years ago on Feb. 29, 1976. Japan's space agency NASDA (now JAXA) launched its first ionospheric sounding satellite (ISS-1) on a Mitsubishi N-1 rocket, a licensed version of the U.S. Delta booster. Also known as Ume-1, the satellite monitored radio waves in the Earth's ionosphere and was used to forecast optimal conditions for shortwave communications. Twenty years later, two human spaceflight missions made history on the same leap day. STS-75 mission specialists Jeff Hoffman and Franklin Chang Diaz mark 1,000 hours in space each aboard the space shuttle. (NASA) NASA's STS-75 mission was the only space shuttle flight to be in orbit on a leap day over the course of the 135- mission, 30-year program. On Feb. 29, 1996, Jeff Hoffman set a new record aboard the orbiter Columbia for the most hours flown aboard a space shuttle, breaking the previous record of 975 hours, 18 minutes held by astronaut Kathy Thornton. (Hoffman went on to become the first U.S. astronaut to log 1,000 hours on the shuttle, followed by crewmate Franklin Chang Diaz, later during the STS-75 mission.) As Hoffman was tallying up time in space, another mission was coming to its end. Russia's Soyuz TM-22 crew of Yuri Gidzenko, Sergei Avdeyev and Thomas Reiter, the latter a European Space Agency (ESA) astronaut, landed from the space station Mir on Feb. 29, 1996. The 23rd mission to visit the former Russian outpost, the Soyuz TM-22 crewmembers completed their 179-day flight on that leap day. (Avdeyev went on to be only the fourth person in history to spend more than a year in space over the course of his next Mir mission.) Soyuz TM-22 is seen after landing on the snow-covered steppe of Kazakhstan on Feb. 29, 1996. (Roscosmos via Spacefacts.de) Lastly, prior to Kelly's command ceremony on Monday, the most recent space mission to make history on a leap day was Expedition 30 on the International Space Station. On Feb. 29, 2012, the station crew performed a 76-second re-boost of the orbital complex in order to avoid two pieces of space debris and to prepare for the arrival of Russia's Progress M-15M supply ship two months later. The engine burn itself was not uncommon, but it did fall on a leap day. Elementary students thrilled by Jersey cow in dairy lesson The educational demonstration is part of a partnership between the St. Louis Dairy Council and Southwest Dairy Farmers. February 25, 2016 - Cynthia Daniels (left) and Fran Mosley, chef/owner of HM Dessert Lounge, pose for a portrait at Mosley's establishment at 1586 Madison Ave. Thursday. HM Dessert Lounge is one of the participating black-owned restaurants in the upcoming Memphis Black Restaurant Week, which is being organized by Daniels. The restaurant opened on November 6, 2015. (Yalonda M. James/The Commercial Appeal) SHARE 092111WIRE SUMMARY ART Tues 15 June 2010 (bfdejavu4) Photo by Ben Fant: Chef Gary Williams opened his second location of DeJavu at the corner of Ridgeway and Winchester after two successful years at the Downtown location, which is still open for lunch everyday. February 25, 2016 - The Peach Cobbler at HM Dessert Lounge is made with peaches, crust, vanilla extract, nutmeg, cinnamon, and caramel sauce. Fran Mosley is the chef/owner of HM Dessert Lounge at 1586 Madison Ave. HM Dessert Lounge, which opened on November 6, 2015, is one of the participating black-owned restaurants in the upcoming Memphis Black Restaurant Week. (Yalonda M. James/The Commercial Appeal) February 25, 2016 - The Sweet Potato Brownie at HM Dessert Lounge is made with sweet potatoes, cinnamon, nutmeg, vanilla extract, and drizzled caramel and vanilla sauce. Fran Mosley is the chef/owner of HM Dessert Lounge at 1586 Madison Ave. HM Dessert Lounge, which opened on November 6, 2015, is one of the participating black-owned restaurants in the upcoming Memphis Black Restaurant Week. (Yalonda M. James/The Commercial Appeal) By Michael Lollar, Special to The Commercial Appeal Fran Mosley's mother and grandmother were caterers who cautioned her at an early age: "You're not going to be able to keep a husband if you don't know how to cook." Grandmothers and their recipes for success are a common theme among the eight restaurants taking part in Black Restaurant Week, a new celebration calling attention to the diverse black-operated eateries in Memphis. Don't look for the usual barbecue shops with iconic names and rows of trophies to attest to their reputations. Those taking part in the first Black Restaurant Week have diverse menus from Creole to Italian to elaborate stuffed burgers. During the week, March 7-13, the restaurants will offer special two-course lunches for $15 and three-course dinners for $25 to help build business by attracting new customers and to draw attention to the restaurants as a distinct part of the Memphis restaurant scene. Mosley co-owns her restaurant, HM Dessert Lounge at 1586 Madison, with her husband. Her son works as a sous chef in the kitchen and is part of the family's long food tradition. Mosley tweaked her grandmothers' training by adapting their recipes and later refined her kitchen skills with culinary classes at the old Shelby State Community College. Her restaurant offers full lunches and dinners, but the dessert motif in the restaurant's name is a clue to the most popular items on her menu. Her biggest seller is the sweet potato brownie, closely followed by the Southern butter roll and the banana pudding cake. Cynthia Daniels, organizer of Black Restaurant Week, said the event is a spin-off of Downtown Dining Week that focuses on successful mom-and-pop type businesses. "There are no big-chain conglomerates. Otherwise, I just wanted to focus on minority-owned restaurants. It really is a celebration of that." Daniels, public relations coordinator for the Workforce Investment Network, said she purposely did not include barbecue restaurants in this year's mix. "There were so many of them, I didn't want to try to narrow it down," she said. "I wasn't ready for that this time around." A former development manager for the Memphis Urban League, Daniels said she knows there are more black-operated restaurants in the city, but they are relatively few compared to the growing mix of restaurants overall. Only a few decades ago, black-operated restaurants were far more numerous. The city was segregated, and black businesses served their own communities. As segregation faded away, black diners began spending their money outside their own neighborhoods, Daniels says. She couldn't find statistics to measure the impact, but a 2007 U.S. Census Bureau survey found that black-owned businesses overall accounted for only 1 percent of business receipts in the eight-county Memphis metropolitan area. The black-owned businesses had 7,905 employees, about 1.5 percent of all employees in the metropolitan area. The low numbers helped turn the idea of a week focusing on those minority-owned businesses into a "passion project" for Daniels, who hopes for an "upliftment" and a bigger slice of dining dollars. Restaurants taking part in the inaugural week of what Daniels plans as an annual Black Restaurant Week are: DeJaVu at 51 S. Main, Evergreen Grill at 6661 Winchester, The HM Dessert Lounge at 1586 Madison, Mot & Ed's at 1354 Madison, Onix at 412 S. Main, Scoops Parlor at 106 E. G.E. Patterson, The Bistro at 2945 Millbranch and The Office at Uptown at 594 N. Second. So far, the idea of Black Restaurant Week is paying off. Advertising and word of mouth already have created what Mosley calls an "uptick" in customers before the week even gets under way. At Mot & Ed's, a restaurant specializing in stuffed burgers and soul food, owner Edna Banks-Hawkins said she too has seen new customers who heard about the week and were curious. Banks-Hawkins grew up in the restaurant business. Her family ran three restaurants as the old Boyd's Barbecue chain. Her grandmother and later her mother instilled in her the idea of "bringing joy through food." She left the business for 14 years to work in the corporate world as an admissions counselor at Concord Career Colleges in the Clark Tower, but her love of food wouldn't go away. She began scouting the building with the idea of opening a restaurant. When she was laid off, she moved her plans ahead, turning into the cozy restaurant she now owns at 1354 Madison. Her mother, "Mot," helps by preparing some of their specialties, including cornbread. "To stay in this business, you have to be very passionate about it," Banks-Hawkins said. "You have to have a love for it. I've had people say, 'I can taste the love you put in this place.' She also sees Black Restaurant Week "as a statement." "It's not been so long ago that we (black people) couldn't even go into a place and sit at the counter. Now we break bread together." One of the most successful entrepreneurs among the participants is chef Gary Williams, owner of DeJaVu, at 51 S. Main. Williams was a New Orleans chef who moved to Memphis the year before Hurricane Katrina. His first Memphis restaurant was on Florida in South Memphis. "People told me, 'You're from New Orleans. You don't know what you're doing in Memphis.'" Williams moved ahead with the idea that, "We're going to have fun with what we do. Food is not a black and white thing. It's a thing that brings folks together." At DeJaVu, Williams calls his menu "Creole, soul and vegetarian" with an emphasis on healthy eating. "That's one of the things that makes us stand apart," he said. "I've been shocked at the number of vegans in the black community. You'd think they'd want greasy pork chops, but, no, because they want to be here." Williams estimates 75 percent of his customers are white, and a catering service he operates as part of the business "has been to every millionaire house in the city." His goal is no less than lofty. "I want to win a James Beard award." His menu borrows heavily from his New Orleans heritage. "Gumbo and bananas Foster cheesecake are my biggest sellers. If I didn't have those on the menu, they'd burn the house down." For Black Restaurant Week, he's planning specialties including stuffed catfish, greens and yams. Like the other restaurateurs, grandmothers are an inspiration for him, but with a twist: "The thing that brings me the most joy is when grandmothers come in (as customers) and say, 'Son, this food is delicious.'" Black Restaurant Week March 7-13 at the following participating restaurants: DeJaVu, 51 S. Main Evergreen Grill, 6661 Winchester The HM Dessert Lounge, 1586 Madison Mot & Eds, 1354 Madison Onix, 412 S. Main Scoops Parlor, 106 E. G.E. Patterson The Bistro, 2945 Millbranch The Office at Uptown, 594 N. Second Special two-course lunches, $15; three-course dinners, $25. View menus at blackrestaurantweek.com. Edward L. Stanton, III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee , seen here foregound, held a press conference at the federal building in 2010 announcing the indictments of 22 people charged with heroin trafficking. The number of heroin deaths has increased 800 percent in the last five years. (Mike Maple/The Commercial Appeal) SHARE By Yolanda Jones of The Commercial Appeal As the number of heroin-related deaths continue to climb, local law enforcement officials are making it a priority to combat the problem, including charging individuals who supply the drugs that lead to overdoses with second-degree murder. So far this year, 14 people in Memphis and Shelby County more than one person each week have died from heroin overdoses. Over the last five years the number of heroin-related deaths has increased nearly 800 percent from nine in 2011 to 80 in 2015. A 2014 report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that, nationally, heroin-related deaths tripled between 1999 and 2012. "It is a huge issue," said Shelby County Dist. Atty. Amy Weirich. "We've gone from nine overdose deaths in 2011 to 80 deaths in just four years. We've already had 14 deaths this year and it takes 8 to 12 weeks for the medical examiner's office to finalize reports and data, so the 14 could go up in the next couple of weeks." Last month, Weirich's office prosecuted Eric Herbers in connection with the heroin overdose death of his girlfriend, Sharon Muir, an 18-year-old, University of Memphis student. Herbers, 26, pleaded guilty to attempted second-degree murder in Muir's heroin overdose in 2013. He was sentenced to eight years. In Nashville, last week, Derrick Huey, 18, was charged with second-degree murder in connection to the death of a man after Metro Nashville police said he supplied the victim and another man with the drug. Tennessee statute calls for a second-degree murder charge when a person unlawfully delivers a drug to another person and the drug results in their death. Weirich said since she's been district attorney, she has prosecuted three or four drug overdose cases, including heroin. "We will see more of these type of cases if we can find them," Weirich said. "That's always been the issue where you have someone that dies of an overdose of heroin, the investigation has got to start right then when police or paramedics or whoever is the first point of contact with that victim. That's when the investigation needs to start and it needs to be handled like a homicide investigation." Memphis police officer Timothy Bogue, who works with the department's Organized Crime Unit and is assigned to a newly created team within the unit that handles heroin overdose deaths, agreed that heroin is a huge problem in the city. "I came on the job in 2006 and started working narcotics in 2009 and heroin is everywhere now," Bogue said. He said the majority of heroin users are white and young. "They are between 18 and 25," Bogue said. "With the male whites and female whites, we see a disproportionately number use needles and African-Americans use heroin by snorting it." U.S. Attorney Ed Stanton for the Western District of Tennessee said the drug "is ravaging communities across the country, including western Tennessee" and cuts across racial and socioeconomic lines. "That is why we remain steadfast in vigorously prosecuting those involved in the illegal sale and trafficking of these highly addictive and often lethal drugs," Stanton said. Stanton pointed to prescription drugs as the "gateway drug" to heroin. "You can't really talk about heroin without talking about this," Stanton said. "One of the things that's fueling this heroin uptick or epidemic is the prescription drug abuse. A lot of times, we see teens get these drugs like hydrocodone or OxyContin from the drug cabinet of a family member. They can't afford to pay for the pills that cost from $5 to $35 per pill, and come over and buy heroin for $7 or $12 a pack. This heroin is very pure and potent, that's where were are seeing a number of overdoses of epic proportions, not only here in West Tennessee but throughout the country." While heroin deaths have increased in Memphis and Shelby County, drug deaths are still outpaced by homicides. Last year there were 161 homicides in Memphis compared to 80 heroin deaths countywide. Already this year there have been 38 homicides in Memphis compared to 14 heroin deaths across Shelby County. Lt. Chris Harris with the Shelby County Sheriff's Office who works with the narcotics unit said heroin is "rampant" in the area "We are going after these bad guys out there selling this drug, but it is hard. Wherever we try to climb the ladder and get the head of an organization, it is like sticking your finger to plug a hole that is the size of a bowling ball. But we will continue to fight because people are dying." SHARE By Jody Callahan of The Commercial Appeal Memphis police on Sunday were investigating reports of shots fired at Oak Court Mall. The incident happened just after noon Saturday at 530 Oak Court, which is in the south parking lot near Macy's. Apparently, no one was hurt, according to a memo from the Memphis Police. It was unclear exactly what happened, but two witnesses told police they saw a man firing shots. The first witness said she ducked down in her car after hearing gunfire. She looked up and saw a young man in dark clothing get into a silver car and go up the parking ramp. She also said she saw a man firing shots in the parking lot. A second witness also saw the shooting, police said. Police recovered 15 spent shell casings on the scene. They also found a Nissan Maxima that was still running with the driver's side window down, but with no one in the vehicle. The police memo says the shooting may have followed a fight. This marked the latest incident at the mall that opened in 1988. On Dec. 24, three men robbed another man, then fled in a Pontiac Grand Am. Mall security demanded that a reporter leave the premises after that incident. On Dec. 9, a 17-year-old apparently opened fire in the mall's parking garage. Police charged him with reckless endangerment and unlawful possession of a weapon. No one was injured. On March 6, 2014, Otis Reddic opened fire inside the mall, critically injuring Theodis Pitchford and endangering numerous other patrons. Reddic eventually pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 14 years in prison. The incident was believed to be part of a gang feud. The mall is owned by Simon Property Group, based in Indianapolis. Simon representatives did not respond to a request for comment Sunday night. According to state officials, Memphis will be required to pay back the entire $3.8 million in grant funds it received to build this vehicle-inspection station off Appling Rd. that was shuttered less than three years after it opened. (Jim Weber/The Commercial Appeal) SHARE By Tom Charlier of The Commercial Appeal The Tennessee Department of Transportation and ultimately the city of Memphis will be required to repay the entire $3.8 million federal grant used to help fund construction of a vehicle-inspection station that the city shut down less than three years after it opened, federal officials said in a recent letter to the state. Until they received the formal letter from the Federal Highway Administration a few weeks ago, TDOT officials thought they might have to repay only part of the grant amount. TDOT spokeswoman B.J. Doughty said in an email that once the department reimburses the highway administration, it will send Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland a letter asking the city to reimburse the state. TDOT will bill Memphis quarterly, she said, and if the payments aren't made the state could withhold future transportation funds from the city "until TDOT recoups all of the money owed," Doughty said in the email. The $3.8 million grant from the federal Congestion Mitigation Air Quality program was administered through the state. The city received the money and used it to build the $6 million inspection station just off Appling Road. The station opened in 2010 but was shut down in mid-2013 after the City Council voted to halt funding for the $2.7 million-a-year inspection program. Council members argued it was unfair for Memphis alone to bear the burden of reducing Shelby County's air pollution through inspections and tailpipe emissions-testing. Strickland, then a council member, co-sponsored the resolution to cut off the funding. City spokeswoman Ursula Madden said in an email that Memphis has not been notified about the repayment matter. "Until we have notification it would be premature for the administration to talk about it ...," she said. This isn't the first time the city has run into trouble with its use of CMAQ funds. Memphis received a $20 million grant in 2002 to fund construction of a parking garage at FedExForum, but the state later recovered $6.3 million because the city failed to include an intermodal-transfer facility that was required in the funding agreement. Despite the shutdown of the vehicle-inspection program, air quality in the Memphis area continues to improve. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has said it will propose that an area encompassing Shelby and Crittenden counties and part of DeSoto County be declared in compliance with federal standards for ozone pollution. Republican presidential candidate Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, campaigns Tuesday, Dec. 22, 2015, in Knoxville, Tenn. (Adam Lau/Knoxville News Sentinel via AP) SHARE By Tom Humphrey, Special to the Knoxville News Sentinel NASHVILLE Texas Sen. Ted Cruz and his super political action committee supporters have spent more than $1 million in television advertising in Tennessee as a prelude to Tuesday's presidential primary, some of it devoted to attacking Donald Trump, a review indicates. A poll released Sunday appeared to cement Trump's status as the Republican front-runner in Tennessee. The survey, commissioned by NBC News and The Wall Street Journal, showed Trump supported by 40 percent of likely GOP primary votes, followed by Cruz at 22 percent and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio at 19 percent. On the Democratic side, the poll found Hillary Clinton with a 60 percent and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders with 34 percent. The television ad total for Cruz and two supportive PACs substantially surpasses the apparent total of about $856,000 for all other Tennessee TV ad spending in support of presidential candidates combined, based on a review of filings by TV stations with the Federal Communications Commission as of Sunday, national media reports and other sources. Here is a breakdown of the estimated TV ad spending in Tennessee: The Cruz campaign has spent about $598,000 within the state and also enjoys backing from two well-funded super PACs. One of them, Stand for Truth PAC, has spent about $297,000 and the other, Keep the Promise PAC, has spent close to $150,000 in Tennessee. Combined, they total more than $1 million spent on promoting Cruz or attacking his primary opponents mostly Trump. Rubio's campaign has spent about $88,000 statewide. The senator, endorsed by Gov. Bill Haslam and U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander, also is backed by Conservative Solutions PAC, which has spent about $388,000 on Tennessee TV advertising. The pro-Rubio total is thus about $476,000. Trump, a billionaire who has relied substantially on his own fortune for funding, has spent a relatively modest $200,000 on Tennessee TV advertising. The two other Republican candidates still active in the presidential campaign, Ben Carson and John Kasich, have campaigned in the state but have no reported spending on TV campaign advertising. Right to Rise, a super PAC supporting former Florida Gov. Jeb Bush, had bought about $350,000 worth of TV advertising time in Tennessee, beginning its purchases on Feb. 1 well ahead of other campaigns and PACs, which mostly waited until last week. But virtually all that was canceled before the ads actually ran when Bush withdrew from the race after his poor showing in South Carolina's primary earlier this month. Clinton, the Democratic front-runner, has spent about $180,000 on TV advertising in Tennessee, all in the Nashville and Memphis media markets where Democratic voters are most concentrated. She has personally campaigned in the state, too. Sanders has not visited Tennessee and has spent no reported money on TV advertising within the state. The Republican campaigns are loath to disclose which ads are running where for what they consider strategic reasons, although often the ads are posted on the Internet, candidate's Facebook pages and the like. A Rubio spokesman, for example, pointed a reporter to the campaign's ad on Haslam endorsing Rubio subject of a campaign news release and highly promoted otherwise but declined to say what other Rubio ads are running in Tennessee. Representatives of the Cruz campaign, the engaged super PACs and Trump's campaign did not respond to a reporter's requests via email and phone calls last week for a listing of ads running in Tennessee. Clinton's campaign, facing no ad competition from Sanders, has in contrast sent out news releases announcing a "six-figure buy" of TV advertising within the state and pointed to two commercials being aired in the Memphis and Nashville markets. One, targeting black voters, has the candidate saying "something is just fundamentally broken" in equality when aspects of "systemic racism" remain. The other ad generally points to Clinton's record of accomplishments as secretary of state, declaring that serving as president is "the toughest job in the world and she's the one who'll make a real difference for you." On the Republican front, simply watching TV and talking with others who do so around the state provides an indication of which ads are running within Tennessee and that they are following a pattern reported in the national media. The Cruz campaign has a mix of ads; some made available on the Internet and some not. The one apparently aired most in Tennessee features a general listing of the candidate's conservative views on issues and opposition to the Washington establishment. He also has ads attacking Trump as untruthful. The super PACs backing Cruz have ads that are more harsh in attacking Trump. Stand for Truth has one ad, seen in Tennessee, that is similar to the Cruz campaign's positive ad, showing the candidate walking with a shotgun over his shoulder and talking with voters. But another, apparently also aired in Tennessee, features clips of Trump saying Republicans are "too crazy," that he is "pro-choice" on abortion and thinks Hillary Clinton is "a terrific woman." Keep the Promise, the other super PAC supporting Cruz, has an ad aired in Knoxville, a viewer indicates that touts Cruz as the candidate who will assure appointment of conservatives to the U.S. Supreme Court. Cruz appointees, the ad suggests, will support "state sovereignty," "the Ten Commandments" and gun rights. Another ad attacks "TrumpCare," likening Trump's position on health care to that of President Barack Obama's "Obamacare" and Clinton's "Hillarycare." Other than the Haslam ad, Rubio apparently is spending most of his Tennessee campaign money on an ad likening the senator to President Ronald Reagan and declaring it time for the "children of Reagan" to assume leadership. Conservative Solutions PAC, which is supporting him, has ads devoted to comparing Trump to Rubio with Trump roundly criticized. One declares Rubio "an expert on foreign policy" while Trump "knows nothing" and has been supportive of Russian leader Vladimir Putin. A Trump ad aired in Tennessee basically portrays the candidate as fighting the established Washington order while touting his stance on immigration and combating terrorism without mentioning other candidates. Tennessee's presidential primary is Tuesday. Crews assess the damage from a rock slide along Interstate 75 North at mile marker 142 in Campbell County, Tennessee, on Sunday. Interstate 75 will remain closed in both directions through Monday and motorists could see closures for weeks to come as TDOT Geotechnical staff evaluates the slide. (Shawn Millsaps/Special to the Knoxville News Sentinel) SHARE By Knoxville News Sentinel Debris continued to tumble onto Interstate 75 in Campbell County north of Knoxville on Sunday after a "significant" rock slide shut down all lanes Friday afternoon, state officials said. Clean-up efforts have been limited amid the ongoing rockfall, which blocked the northbound lanes near mile marker 142, and has since begun rolling into the southbound lanes as well, said Mark Nagi, Tennessee Department of Transportation spokesman. "We're still expecting this to be a long-term closure weeks instead of days," Nagi said Sunday. "The slope is unstable. Rocks are still falling." TDOT geotechnical engineers were inspecting the slope Sunday. The agency expected to let an emergency clean-up contract Monday. Nagi said TDOT official should have a better idea of next steps by Monday or Tuesday. The rock slide began around 3 p.m. Friday as boulders as large as 6-feet wide rolled into the northbound lanes. The rockfall continued as media personnel toured the site Sunday morning, including at least one rock big enough that it damaged a support column holding a cable barrier in the median. No injuries have been reported amid the rockfall. Drivers headed north are being detoured at Exit 134, along U.S. 25W through LaFollette, Tennessee, and into Jellico, then back onto I-75 at Exit 160. Southbound traffic should take Exit 160 for Jellico, then follow Tenn. 297 to Tenn. 63 and back onto I-75 at Exit 141. SHARE Jessica Chambers By Ron Maxey of The Commercial Appeal Warren Strain, public affairs director for the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, summed up nicely what many were feeling during a news conference in Batesville last week to announce an arrest had finally been made in the Jessica Chambers case: "It's edifying to know we can offer some degree of closure, if there is such a thing, to Jessica's loved ones. Furthermore, it's gratifying to know that someone who is capable of this degree of evil will have to answer for his actions." It should be noted, of course, that Quinton Verdell Tellis the suspect indicted on a charge of setting Chambers afire the evening of Dec. 6, 2014 has yet to be convicted and so, for now, is considered innocent. It may, in fact, be a long time before Tellis even comes to trial since District Attorney John Champion said pending charges in Louisiana, where Tellis is in jail, would get first priority. "This is nothing but hurdle No. 1," Champion said to offer some perspective. "We're nowhere near the end." Also underscoring that the story isn't over, many unanswered questions remain: What was the relationship between Tellis and Chambers? Champion wouldn't say, except that they knew one another because they had both grown up in tiny Courtland, and they were introduced by friends. What was the motive, since Champion said it wasn't drug- or gang-related (more on that in a minute)? Because of evidence rules in Mississippi, Champion said he couldn't even hint at the topic of motive before the trial. All that said, even with a long way to go and many questions to answer, just the fact that an arrest had been made after 14 months gave a sense, at least, that a family awaiting some measure of justice was seeing progress. Losing a child upsets the normal cycle of life and death in a family and leaves a void that can never be filled, but justice does provide a balm when the sting of loss is at its worst. And then there's this ... Before we change topics, one more thing to say on the Chambers case from colleague Clay Bailey, who writes the Outside The Loop column about the Shelby County suburbs. Given the widespread interest in the Chambers case, he heard about it and formed some opinions as well specifically, opinions about claims that the mainstream media was refusing to report gang responsibility for the slaying. So, in his own words, here ya go: I wanted to note several details that emerged from the Tuesday news conference regarding the indictment of suspect Quinton Tellis details beyond his past record, his charges in Louisiana, his friendship with Chambers. According to District Attorney John Champion: Tellis was affiliated with a gang. The slaying was not drug or gang-related. Tellis acted alone. The "acted alone" part is particularly important. It dispels those Internet reports that the Courtland, Mississippi, woman's death was at the hands of 17 gang members. And how the media wasn't reporting those charges. The reason it wasn't reported by the mainstream/local media? It wasn't true. Seventeen people identified as gang members were arrested on drug and weapons charges. Those arrests were a spinoff of the investigation regarding Chambers' death. A spinoff investigation. Not the homicide investigation. That is the reason local television stations and newspapers, including Jackson Clarion-Ledger, the Birmingham News and The Commercial Appeal, didn't report the arrest of the gang members for killing Jessica Chambers. Because they never were charged with that. I'll just leave it at that. Better late than never We close with something to lighten the mood a bit, though it still involves loss. It comes courtesy of former state Rep. Pat Nelson of Southaven. Nelson posted a Facebook link one evening last week lamenting the passing of actor Don Knotts (aka Barney Fife). Several people replied with comments that they too were sad to hear of Knotts' demise. Thing is, Knotts died in 2006. After being alerted that the story he linked to was, ahem, 10 years old, Nelson graciously accepted the egg on his face and noted the error of his ways in another posting. That led to a private message exchange in which Nelson shared memories of his childhood in Monticello, Mississippi, a Mayberry-esque place, he says, that helped cultivate his love of the mythical North Carolina town where Barney was deputy. "The character who made me laugh even more than Barney Fife was Floyd the barber," Nelson said. "Our barber in Monticello was Clyde, and he was Floyd made over. "He only cut hair one way a flat top ... He had the ULTIMATE flat top with a full jar of butch wax on his head at all times. That hair was not going ANYWHERE except straight up on his head!" And if that doesn't allow you to smile and feel a bit nostalgic as you finish this column, nothing will. SHARE Skip Funk Collierville Here are some ideas on the Memphis trolley system and how to get them back up and running again. Appeal to the Memphis business community for help. Our area is flush with Fortune 500 companies that could help adopt a trolley and be responsible for upkeep and repair. In return, the city would give the companies permission to decorate their trolleys with their company logos, colors and themes as they wish. With companies like FedEx, AutoZone, International Paper, ServiceMaster, Landers Auto Group, First Tennessee Bank, Kroger, Regions Bank, Memphis Grizzlies and others, the possibilities are endless. All the corporate trolleys running around town would serve as a constant reminder to our visitors and guests of what a great atmosphere for business Memphis is. Select Commodity All Ajwan Alasande Gram Almond(Badam) Alsandikai Amaranthus Ambada Seed Amla(Nelli Kai) Amphophalus Antawala Anthorium Apple Apricot(Jardalu/Khumani) Arecanut(Betelnut/Supari) Arecanut(Betelnut/Supari) Arhar (Tur/Red Gram)(Whole) Arhar (Tur/Red Gram)(Whole) Arhar Dal(Tur Dal) Ashgourd Astera Avare Dal Bajra(Pearl Millet/Cumbu) Bajra(Pearl Millet/Cumbu) Balekai Bamboo Banana Banana - Green Barley (Jau) Bay leaf (Tejpatta) Beans Beaten Rice Beetroot Bengal Gram Dal (Chana Dal) Bengal Gram(Gram)(Whole) Ber(Zizyphus/Borehannu) Ber(Zizyphus/Borehannu) Betal Leaves Bhindi(Ladies Finger) Bitter gourd Black Gram (Urd Beans)(Whole) Black Gram Dal (Urd Dal) Black pepper BOP Bottle gourd Bran Brinjal Broken Rice Broomstick(Flower Broom) Bull Bunch Beans Cabbage Calf Capsicum Cardamoms Carnation Carrot Cashewnuts Castor Seed Cauliflower Chapparad Avare Chennangi Dal Cherry Chikoos(Sapota) Chili Red Chilly Capsicum Chow Chow Chrysanthemum Chrysanthemum(Loose) Cinamon(Dalchini) Cloves Cluster beans Cock Cocoa Coconut Coconut Oil Coconut Seed Coffee Colacasia Copra Coriander(Leaves) Corriander seed Cotton Cotton Seed Cow Cowpea (Lobia/Karamani) Cowpea (Lobia/Karamani) Cowpea(Veg) Cucumbar(Kheera) Cummin Seed(Jeera) Custard Apple (Sharifa) Dalda Dhaincha Drumstick Dry Chillies Dry Fodder Dry Grapes Duck Duster Beans Egg Elephant Yam (Suran) Field Pea Firewood Fish Foxtail Millet(Navane) French Beans (Frasbean) Galgal(Lemon) Garlic Ghee Gingelly Oil Ginger(Dry) Ginger(Green) Gladiolus Cut Flower Goat Gram Raw(Chholia) Gramflour Grapes Green Avare (W) Green Chilli Green Fodder Green Gram (Moong)(Whole) Green Gram Dal (Moong Dal) Green Peas Ground Nut Oil Ground Nut Seed Groundnut Groundnut (Split) Groundnut pods (raw) Guar Guar Seed(Cluster Beans Seed) Guava Gur(Jaggery) He Buffalo Hen Hippe Seed Honge seed Hybrid Cumbu Indian Beans (Seam) Indian Colza(Sarson) Isabgul (Psyllium) Jack Fruit Jaffri Jamun(Narale Hannu) Jarbara Jasmine Jowar(Sorghum) Jute Kabuli Chana(Chickpeas-White) Kacholam Kakada Kankambra Karamani Karbuja(Musk Melon) Kartali (Kantola) Khoya Kinnow Knool Khol Kodo Millet(Varagu) Kulthi(Horse Gram) Lak(Teora) Leafy Vegetable Lemon Lentil (Masur)(Whole) Lilly Lime Linseed Lint Litchi Little gourd (Kundru) Long Melon(Kakri) Lotus Lotus Sticks Lukad Mahedi Mahua Mahua Seed(Hippe seed) Maida Atta Maize Mango Mango (Raw-Ripe) Marasebu Marget Marigold(Calcutta) Marigold(loose) Mashrooms Masur Dal Mataki Methi Seeds Methi(Leaves) Millets Mint(Pudina) Moath Dal Mousambi(Sweet Lime) Mustard Mustard Oil Myrobolan(Harad) Neem Seed Niger Seed (Ramtil) Nutmeg Onion Onion Green Orange Orchid Ox Paddy(Dhan)(Basmati) Paddy(Dhan)(Common) Papaya Papaya (Raw) Patti Calcutta Peach Pear(Marasebu) Peas cod Peas Wet Peas(Dry) Pegeon Pea (Arhar Fali) Pepper garbled Pepper ungarbled Persimon(Japani Fal) Pigs Pineapple Plum Pointed gourd (Parval) Pomegranate Potato Pumpkin Raddish Ragi (Finger Millet) Raibel Rajgir Ram Rat Tail Radish (Mogari) Raya Resinwood Rice Ridge gourd(Tori) Ridgeguard(Tori) Rose(Local) Rose(Loose) Rose(Loose)) Round gourd Rubber Sabu Dan Sabu Dana Safflower Sajje Same/Savi Season Leaves Seemebadnekai Seetafal Seetapal Sesamum(Sesame,Gingelly,Til) Sesamum(Sesame,Gingelly,Til) She Buffalo She Goat Sheep Snake gourd Snakeguard Soanf Soapnut(Antawala/Retha) Soji Soyabean Spinach Sponge gourd Squash(Chappal Kadoo) Sugar Sugarcane Sunflower Sunhemp Suram Surat Beans (Papadi) Suva (Dill Seed) Suvarna Gadde Sweet Potato Sweet Pumpkin T.V. Cumbu T.V. Cumbu Tamarind Fruit Tamarind Seed Tapioca Taramira Tender Coconut Thinai (Italian Millet) Thogrikai Thondekai Tinda Tobacco Tomato Toria Tube Rose(Double) Tube Rose(Loose) Tube Rose(Single) Turmeric Turmeric (raw) Turnip Walnut Water Melon Wheat Wheat Atta White Peas White Pumpkin Wood Yam Yam (Ratalu) Select State Select Market Saturday, February 27, 2016Our 30th anniversary celebrations and commemorative meetings entered the fourth day yesterday. The meeting began with a luncheon. The attendance looked a little lower than usual in the auditorium but this was because the children had a separate conference where they were being taught about missions at their own level. Bobbline Cheembela, one of the church deacons, led the main meeting.We again began the afternoon with presentations from our missionaries. The first presentation was made by Pastor Kenneth Siwale, who was ordained in 2013 to take over the planting a church in Sinda, in the Eastern Province of Zambia. He spoke about the progress in the membership and in the building of their pastors house. He was grateful for the boreholes that were sunk last year with the help of KBC in both Sinda and Kaluba.The second missions presentation was made by Pastor Kasango Kayombo, who was ordained as a missionary in 2012 after being a deacon at KBC for a while. He was sent to plant a church in the Ibex Hill area east of Lusaka. He spoke about their various outreach efforts in the Ibex Hill area and the number of people that have become consistent in attendance. He asked for prayer for the acquisition of land for them to put up a church building.The third missions presentation was made by Pastor Manasseh Kaonga, who was ordained as a missionary in 2010 and was sent to plant a church in Kapiri Mposhi. Manasseh spoke of the increase in church attendance and one or two men he was now discipling for leadership in the church. He also reported that they had begun to construct the foundation of their church building. Bethel Baptist Church in Kabwe was now sending a team of church members to help them with ministry over weekends.Yours truly was asked to cut the 30th anniversary cake with Mrs Mbewe. It was a total surprise. I was not dressed for the occasion. Mrs Mbewe was in even greater shock and after a lot of hesitation finally opted to come with one of our daughters, Mwila. As you will see from the photo, the cake was truly a work of art.Logan Nyasulu read the fourth seven-year period of the history of KBC (1993 to 2009). This comprised the period when KBC went through a period of unprecedented growth and at the same time its most difficult period due to the disintegration of its eldership. It was also the same time when KBC sent out its first international missionary and started its play park outreach programme. The church also started its missions conferences.After the historical summary, Logan interviewed Mrs Gladys Mposha who clocked 20 years as a member of KBC this year. She spoke about her experience of the elders at KBC and the churchs missions work. She also spoke about the sobering effect of the multiple deaths that took place in the church in 2008. Logan then interviewed two of the church elders, Mr Charles Bota and Pastor Chipita Sibale. They spoke of how they found themselves at KBC and how it has been for them working among their fellow elders in the midst of their other demands (for Mr Bota) and young age (for Pastor Sibale).The preacher on this fourth day was Pastor Isaac Makashinyi, from Emmasdale Baptist Church. He preached from 1 Peter 4:12-19. He was dealing with the sacrifice and suffering of Christs bride. Pastor Makashinyi bemoaned the teaching of the prosperity gospel preachers who make sacrifice and suffering look sub-normal to the Christian Faith. From his text, however, he dealt with the following:Pastor Makashinyi began by asserting that our sacrifice and suffering for Christ is a normal and expected part of the churchs life on earth for Christ (v.12). Peter urged the people of God not to be surprised about the suffering that had come upon them. He also urged them to rejoice in their suffering (13-14). This is humanly impossible but the grace of God enables his people to do this. God is sovereign over all the circumstances of our lives, including all the details of our suffering.Pastor Makashinyi emphasised that suffering leads us to deeper fellowship with the Lord Jesus Christ. False believers fall by the wayside when suffering comes, as Jesus so clearly taught in the Parable of the Sower. Suffering will give us a deeper level of rejoicing at the second coming of Christ. Suffering will lead us to a deeper present experience of the Holy Spirit. As Christians we should entrust ourselves to God in our sufferings (v.19) the way one entrusts his valuables to another for safekeeping.Pastor Makshinyi insisted that suffering is our common lot. We must be prepared to lose our comfort zones, safety, security, and convenience. To think that God will only send us where it is safe to serve him is unbiblical. Risk and danger are part of the package of Christian service. Pastor Makashinyi ended by quoting Adoniram Judsons letter to the father of the lady he wanted to marry. The letter clearly spoke of suffering and sacrifice. Oh for such spirituality again!That was how our fourth day at these commemorative meetings ended. In closing, we sang,What a friend we have in Jesus,All our sins and griefs to bear;What a privilege to carry,Everything to God in prayer. Mr Charles Bota leading the church in worship The music ministry singing their song with exuberant joy Mrs Monde Mulunga testifies about life at KBC Elder George Sitali prays for the current missionaries Missionary elect Emmanuel Komba responds to the charge The KBC elders lay hands on Emmanuel Komba as an act of ordination Newly ordained missionary Emmanuel Komba thanks KBC Teary-eyed, Dr Ken Turnbull thanks KBC for its generosity Sunday, February 28, 2016The final day of our 30th anniversary celebrations and commemorative meetings was here. The meeting began at 09.00 hours with a Q&A session with all our missionaries lined up in front of us as members asked them very pointed questions about our role in their lives and their work out there in the field. Mr George Sitali moderated this event.Then at 10.30 hours our normal worship service began, led by Mr Charles Bota. Apart from the songs and hymns that we sang, we enjoyed one of the most animated songs I have ever heard from our music ministry. It was very well sung. Then during the collection of the offering, Mr Logan Nyasulu took us through a summary of the last seven-year period of the history of KBC (2010 to 2016). This comprised the period when the youth camps and conferences and the pastoral internship program grew by leaps and bounds. It was also the period when KBC called its second pastor, Chipita Sibale, who brought the number of current serving pastors at KBC to two. It was also in this period that the African Christian University project started together with KBCs campus outreach ministry. The report ended by stating that KBC now had a payroll of 51 individuals and the Lord continued to supply the funds to remunerate all of them.After the historical summary, Logan interviewed Mrs Monde Mulunga who recalled how an invitation from a friend caused her to visit KBC for the first time in the Kabwata Community Hall. She said after that visit she never went back to her previous church and has been with us since. She also spoke about a series that Pastor Sibale was recently preaching on the life of David that really ministered to her after her eye surgery and her car accident. She urged the members to be grateful to God for what he has done among us and to faithfully serve him in the church.It is on this final day of the conference that KBC members take a collection (and pledges) towards a missions project or projects that the elders choose. As stated in earlier blogs, our goal was to raise K150,000 towards the construction of a majestic entryway to our ACU Chisamba campus. At this point the collection was taken.Mr George Sitali invited the current missionaries together with the elect missionary (Emmanuel Komba) to come forward and be prayed for them. After he prayed for them, we went into the ordination of Emmanuel Komba as our latest missionary to Sierra Leone. Mr Sitali read the charge to Emmanuel and then invited the rest of the elders to come and lay hands on Emmanuel. What a glorious occasion this was!Yours truly was the preacher yesterday. My subject was, The resurrection and glorification of the bride of Christ. I preached from 1 Corinthians 1:30, And because of him you are in Christ Jesus, who became to us wisdom from God, righteousness and sanctification and redemption. I argued that the redemption being spoken about here is not what took place at Jesus first coming but what will take place at his second coming (Romans 8:23 and Ephesians 4:30). That was why it came at the end of the string listed by the apostle Paul and not at the beginning. By using the picture of the redemption or liberation of a slave, I went on to look at this theme under three heads:I stated that we would be redeemed from the curse of the fall. To begin with it will be all that everyone goes throughwhether saved or not. Then added to this is the persecution that the bride of Christ suffers from the non-believers. Lastly, it was the remaining or indwelling sin in our hearts that often leaves us in tears and sorrow. We long for these sources of misery to come to an end perhaps more than a slave longs to be liberated from his chains and enslavement.I stated that we would be redeemed at the second coming of Christ. That is the day of our redemption mentioned in Ephesians 4:30. On that occasion, we will be changed in the twinkling of an eye and our earthly bodies will become like his heavenly body. The effect of the fall will be over. The persecution of the world will also be over. We will be taken by Jesus and will forever be with him in glory.I stated that the life after our redemption beggars our imagination. We will live a life that is totally free from sin. External sin will be no more because all sinners will be consigned to hell. Internal sin will be no more because our very natures will be totally transformed into the absolute holiness. We will be reunited with our lost loved one in Christ. We will worship God with an unsinning heart. And above all, we will see our Saviour face to face.This was how I captured the resurrection and glorification of the bride of Christ. After the sermon, we sangJerusalem the golden,With milk and honey blessed,Beneath thy contemplation,Sink heart and voice oppressed.I know not, O I know not,What joys await us there;What radiancy of gloryWhat bliss beyond compare.We spend the next hour in a fellowship meal. How the ladies managed to feed the 300 to 400 people is beyond me but they fed us well. After lunch we gathered for what is called the grand announcement. This is always the last event at our missions conferences where the funds collected are announced. For me, as the church pastor, I am always anxious while I wait for the deacons to tell me how much the people of God have given. Yesterday was no exception. How much have KBC members given or pledged to give towards the ACU entryway? I announced the amount. It was K151, 086. I was relieved and full of thanksgiving to God for the generosity of his people. Dr Ken Turnbull came forward to respond to this. His tears told us what was in his heart. It was an emotional moment for all of us. He prayed for KBC and on that note we were all dismissed! According to the Independent on Sunday, a coalition of the Green, Plaid Cymru and the SNP are plotting an election pact to try to secure a majority in favour of electoral reform in the House of Commons at the next election. Labour and the Liberal Democrats are alleged to be colluding in a similar vein. The former three will be inspired and the latter two ought to be deeply dissuaded by the complete car crash of a general election which just unfolded in the Republic of Ireland. For those who missed it, a precis: the incumbent government was a coalition of Fine Gael, a centre-right party from the Republics least Republican tradition, and Labour, a centre-left party. That looks bizarre to us, but is thoroughly normal in Ireland. This is because, with the exception of Fianna Fail, no Irish party has ever been large enough to form a majority government. As the second and third largest parties, Fine Gael and Labour have to cooperate (often with other parties) to take office. In 2011 both parties looked to have achieved a breakthrough, with Fine Gael gaining almost enough seats to govern alone and Labour becoming the second-largest party as Fianna Fail were smashed. Had Fine Gael taken a few more and Labour been able to head up the opposition, or Fianna Fail ever taken their oft-considered step and shifted away from proportional representation, things might have been very different. Instead, Irish politics has splintered dramatically. With 148 of the 158 winners declared, Fine Gael has just 47 seats whilst Fianna Fail has risen from 20 to 43 and Sinn Fein are up from 14 to 22. Meanwhile Labour languish on a mere six, down from 37 in 2011, whilst far-left group Anti-Austerity Alliance-People Before Profit (AAA-PBP) have five, the newly-formed Social Democrats three, the Greens two, and the Workers and Unemployed Action Group (WUAG) one. There are also 15 Independents, and four more elected under the umbrella of the Independent Alliance. As things stand, there is only one party combination that offers stable government: the heretofore unthinkable partnership of Fine Gael and Fianna Fail in a grand coalition. As each party has its genesis in the two sides of Irelands post-independence Civil War, there is much joking about the end of civil war politics at the prospect. But theyre not keen, for one obvious reason: such a government would leave Sinn Fein as the principle party of opposition. With a generation of voters raised after the Troubles giving the party their increased success in Irish elections, this risks seeing Sinn Fein make major advances if this government proves unpopular. For those voters who wont countenance voting for Gerry Adams party, and there are plenty, the only alternative would be a selection of left-wingers. Renua Ireland, a new right-wing party which split from Fine Gael, has not returned any TDs. Some commentators believe that none of this will overcome the major parties well-established urge to grasp power after all, Ireland has seem impossible coalitions formed before. Besides which, would a second election produce a better result? (Ireland is not saddled with fixed-term Parliaments as Britain currently is, so there wouldnt be any constitutional hurdles to calling one.) Not for Labour, in all likelihood. Their experience of a left-leaning party serving as junior partner in an austerity government mirrors that of the Lib Dems, and warns the latter that Proportional Representation is no shield from the voters wrath. Fine Gael could do better: theyre widely regarded as having run a very poor campaign (despite help from the Tories), which saw their support slip from somewhere north of 30 per cent to around 25 per cent at the time of writing. But if neither Labour nor Renua have many TDs its hard to see many natural coalition partners for them. Its Sinn Fein who could easily improve their performance if they managed to depose Gerry Adams, who proved a liability on the campaign trail, although not by enough to achieve their one-time hope of supplanting Fianna Fail as the principle Republican party south of the border. If neither major party can clearly see how a second poll would boost their fortunes, whilst it could very likely help Sinn Fein if the latter acquire a new leader, a new election isnt happening. This leaves Fine Gael and Fianna Fail and hope for all theyre worth the electorate dont want to deliver them both a kicking next time. If the two main parties cant turn things around in coalition, they could be setting up a much more dramatic election still. This election has seen Ireland do what Ed Miliband thought Britain had to do: respond to austerity by moving left. Without the buttress of First Past the Post, with its strong incentives towards broad churches and compromise parties, the disintegration of Irelands party system could have yet further to run. A report from the Institute of Economic Affairs says that the the number of traffic lights in the country has risen by a quarter since 2000. What have been the consequences? Delaying journeys has a cost to the economy, the report says: Just a two-minute delay to every car journey equates to a loss of approximately 16 billion every year, equivalent to almost 1 per cent of GDP. The cost are environmental as well as economic: A 2006 study estimated that traffic lights in the UK consumed 102 million kwh of electricity a year, equivalent to around 30,000 homes (UKERC 2006). As a result, approximately 50,000 tonnes of CO2 entered the atmosphere. On top of the cost of delays, traffic policy increases fuel consumption, emissions and vehicle maintenance. Traffic signals require frequent braking and acceleration. Road humps and other obstacles may increase wear on tyres and suspensions, and damage bodywork and exhausts. With effects hard to isolate, it is difficult to quantify such costs, but with over 30 million vehicles on UK roads even a small percentage increase in annual fuel and maintenance costs translates into a substantial sum. Last year the Conservatives on the London Assembly proposed that traffic lights be turned off at night. I hope that Zac Goldsmith will take up this proposal which is modest but also sensible and eco-friendly. But we should also have local authorities showing greater willingness to experiment with turning off traffic lights in the day time. This experiment took place at the Cabstand Junction Portishead in Somerset by accident but with great success: In June 2009, the lights failed for a few hours and the traffic jams disappeared. Cassini spotted the story and lobbied the Council, who agreed to a lights-off trial. It started on 14 September 2009. The results were instantaneous. Despite a return from back-street rat-runs and greater numbers using the now free-flowing main route, there was a dramatic drop in congestion and journey time, as confirmed by monitoring of the trial. In the words of traffic engineer Keith Firth: Within hours of hooding the signals, things were looking bleak for the traffic engineering fraternity. Up to 2000 vehicles per hour sailed through the junction with little, if any, delay and queues disappeared on all the approaches. Drivers were courteous to each other, a good proportion slowed to allow pedestrians to cross, and road users interviewed a few days before the trial who had said it would be chaos, now reported that they were prepared to have a three-course millinery delight. The report adds: The benefits were so obvious that after ten months the council decided to make the trial permanent and removed the traffic lights altogether. The Portishead experiment has been marked by a very low accident rate, although small sample sizes make statistical analysis problematic. Firth concludes that removing all forms of conventional junction control resulted in less traffic congestion, fewer delays and queues, and greater capacity, with little impact on pedestrian amenity. So why are there not more trials with removing traffic lights? The difficulty is the vested interests of all the highways engineers and bureaucrats whose salaries rely on complexity and intervention. What is needed is for the elected councillors to insist on the alternative approach being given a chance. Three years ago, the TaxPayers Alliance reported that in the last year, five times more Labour people were appointed to public bodies than Tories. Since then, the figures have varied, and some Conservative members or supporters have been selected to fill important posts. Nonetheless, it remains the case that, since it took office in 2010, our Party has punched beneath its weight when it comes to public appointments. One of the reasons seems to be that Tories simply dont apply in the same number as Labour supporters. To help remedy this, every fortnight we put up links to some of the main public appointments vacancies, so that qualified Conservatives might be aware of the opportunities presented. Royal Mint Advisory Committee Art Historian The purpose of the role is to play an active part in raising the standard of numismatic art in Britain, through judging artwork submitted, offering constructive comments on how it can be amended, suggesting suitable means of briefing artists and suggesting new artists to become involved in the design of coins and medals. Time: Four meetings per annum for a five-year term. Remuneration: Expenses only. Closes: 04 March Royal Mint Advisory Committee Museums Sector Member The member will be expected to attend meetings of the Committee where, upon reaching consensus, design proposals will be forwarded for approval to the government department concerned before being passed on to the Palace for royal approval. Time: Four meetings per annum for a five-year term. Remuneration: Expenses only. Closes: 04 March Bank of England Deputy Governor for Prudential Regulation The Deputy Governor for Prudential Regulation is the Chief Executive of the PRA, and sits on the board of the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) The Deputy Governor for Prudential Regulation will continue to be the Chief Executive of the PRA and will have several of his/her roles, including preparing the prudential regulation strategy and the day to day management of the PRA, written into statute. Time: Full time. Remuneration: 267,946 per annum. Closes: 04 March National Employment Savings Trust Trustee Members The NEST Trustee Board is collectively responsible for running the NEST pension scheme and setting the strategic direction and objectives for the organisation. The Board is entirely comprised of Trustee Members. NEST Corporation is a Non-Departmental Public Body, accountable to Parliament for the effective performance of its statutory functions. Time: 30 days per annum. Remuneration: 19,050, based on 30 days annual commitment (635 a day). Closes: 07 March Civil Justice Council Members The role of the Trustees is to establish SMGs policy, have overall responsibility for financial decision-making, review performance and endorse appointments to key management positions. The Trustees assist the Chairman and the Executives of the Science Museum Group in delivering its statutory objectives and in formulating and implementing its other strategic aims. Time: Minimum 8 days per annum. Remuneration: Travel expenses. Closes: 14 March Royal Parks Chair The Royal Parks (TRP) is a new public body which will be seeking charitable status. Its purpose is to oversee the management of 5000 acres of outstanding parkland in London including unique historic landscapes, rare habitats, listed buildings and national memorials. It also undertakes commercial activity to support this work including concessions, licences and a high profile series of events. Time: Monthly meetings, four to six board meetings a year, a study day, extra time prior to launch. Remuneration: Reasonable expenses. Closes: 14 March UK Statistics Authority Non-Executive Directors The Authority has responsibility for its executive office, the Office for National Statistics. The Authority Board is looking for two non-executive directors as it seeks to improve the accessibility and usefulness of statistical data to the wider public, and modernise the collection and communication of UK statistics to meet the current and future needs of the UKs decision makers. Time: Minimum two days per month. Remuneration: 15,000 per annum. Closes: 14 March Financial Reporting Advisory Board Chair HM Treasury is seeking a new Chair for the Financial Reporting Advisory Board. The Board advices UK public sector accounting standard setters on matters related to financial reporting. Created in 1996, the Boards plays a valuable independent role in the accounting standard setting process. The Chair performs a central leadership role on the Board. Time: The Board meets 3 times a year and also undertakes some out of meeting work. Remuneration: The post has historically not been remunerated but this may be reviewed for the right candidate. Closes: 18 March Home Office Her Majestys Inspector of Constabulary HM Inspectorate of Constabulary (HMIC) is an independent body that inspects and reports to the public on the efficiency and effectiveness of police forces and national law enforcement agencies HMIs are appointed by Her Majesty the Queen on the recommendation of the Home Secretary. Their purpose is to inspect the police and report publicly on their efficiency and effectiveness. Time: Full time basic hours of work will be 37 hours per week, excluding lunch breaks. Remuneration: Expected six figure salary, subject to agreement by Ministers. Closes: 18 March Department for Education Her Majestys Chief Inspector of Education, Childrens Services and Skills The next Chief Inspector will also have a key role over the five years of their term in delivering the manifesto commitment to reduce the burden of inspection and to continue inspection reform so that inspection is re-shaped to meet the challenges facing the education and childrens services sectors. Time: Full time. Remuneration: 170,000-180,000 per annum. Closes: 18 March Those ministers who support leaving the EU are understandably aggrieved at the decision apparently jointly taken by Downing Street and Sir Jeremy Heywood to deprive them of full access to their own civil servants. It would be bad enough to forbid them from calling on their civil servants for advice (their predecessors in 1975 were allowed to do so) but to order civil servants not to show them EU-related documents is absurd. Priti Patel has today said that: Jeremy Heywoods unconstitutional act threatens the reputation of the civil service. Secretaries of State are responsible for their departments. For an unelected official to prevent them being aware of the information they need for their duties is wrong. She is correct for several reasons. In our organic constitution, ministers are held responsible for all their departments actions. Banning them from knowing what their departments are up to is wholly inconsistent with that principle they cant be accountable and simultaneously forbidden from knowing what theyre accountable for. Will Downing Street now take the blame for anything going wrong instead? I rather doubt it. The decision also seems irresponsible on the Governments own terms. Our membership of the EU is, we are told, key to the fight against terrorists. How then can it be safe to forbid the Justice Secretary from seeing Ministry of Justice documents relating to the EUs supposedly vital counter-terrorism activities? Politically, this is another serious error. It was the Prime Minister who told his colleagues that they would be free to campaign with their heart on the referendum question, at no risk to their ministerial position. He was right to do so, both for the sake of a fair referendum and in order to preserve Party unity in a post-referendum world. This new policy to gag and undermine ministers who support Leave Remain clearly runs counter to both the letter and the spirit of his promise. Not only is future Conservative unity at stake, so is the Governments reputation. At the last election, Camerons theme of quietly capable, sensible government was worth a great deal. He has long prided himself on placing pragmatism ahead of personal or ideological concerns. Any action which seeks to hobble good ministers in going about their work is a threat to that reputation and to the good governance of the country. Like the Prime Ministers jabs at Boris Johnson a week ago, this attack on Tories who support Leave is unnecessary, unjust and ultimately self-defeating. The Government would have been wise not to indulge its worse instincts in the first place it has begun to do so, but there is still time to recognise the error and change tack. Every once in a while though not all that often, a politicians decision brings with it a character test a crunch point where ambition, belief, and disposition meet. How they deal with it tells one a lot about them. So it has been with the EU referendum and two Cabinet members who, though seen as possible or even probable supporters of Leave, came out in the end for Remain. The first is Sajid Javid, the second Theresa May. Lets have a closer look at what happened through the prism of three rules which apply to Ministers no more or less than to the rest of us. First, make sure your reasons for any decision are coherent. Second, be able to explain them clearly or else dont do so at all. Third, if youre not quite sure what youre going to do, have an exit route prepared. And so to the Business and Home Secretaries. Javid has a history of Euroscepticism, in the sense of longstanding criticism of the EU project, stretching back to the days when he was thrown out of Party Conference for distributing anti-ERM leaflets. The Business Secretary, unlike the Home Secretary, is a relatively recent Cabinet arrival. Although he is viewed as a potential leadership candidate, he is also a protege of George Osborne, whose PPS he was and with whom he served at the Treasury. So a decision to back Remain was bound to revive claims that he has done a deal with the Chancellor, perhaps agreeing to serve under him as Chancellor himself if Osborne succeeds David Cameron as Prime Minister. Friends of the Business Secretary deny this unequivocally, and I should add that I have always found him to be very straightforward. He is also no fool, and will surely have known that his decision to support Remain will have done his leadership prospects no good at all. So we must presume that he took it for the reason he has given, and is not in breach of Rule One. This brings one to that reason which, broadly speaking, is that he wishes Britain had never entered the EU, but that this is the wrong time to leave. This is a perfectly legitimate view to hold (and he hints that he may well support Brexit in the future) but rather a hard one to sustain convincingly. If you are stuck with a friend in a collapsing house, and tell him that you wish youd never entered it, want to leave it, and may well do so in future but dont think you should do so just now you will inevitably provoke a certain amount of comeback. Javid has got himself into a lot of trouble with Rule Two. This takes one to Rule Three, which he has certainly made a bit of a hash of. If the Business Secretary suspected that he would eventually come out for Remain, he would have been wise to keep his options more open. Instead, he has been busy closing them off. Last year, he said that he is not afraid at all of quitting the EU. Last June, he attacked the CBI for coming out in support of Britain staying in the EU before David Camerons renegotiation had properly opened. Last November, he tweeted that the costs of staying in the EU outweighed the benefits. It is true that none of these statements ruled out an eventual decision to back Remain, but Javid will have known how the media would treat them and others would interpret them, or should have. Now consider the case of Theresa May, who has no history of Euroscepticism in the sense that I earlier outlined, at least until very recently. The Home Secretary has, at least at first glance, made just as much of a mess of her expectations management as Javid. Last autumn, the political core of her Party Conference speech was a sustained critique of how the EU makes immigration harder to control. It was read as a sign that she was considering supporting Leave. In the weeks that followed, she pointedly refused to say anything about the Prime Ministers renegotiation, in terms of her eventual decision, other than that she would wait to see its outcome. This was bound to fan the flames, as she will have known perfectly well. This brings us to that decision. Unlike Javid, she has not written a newspaper article to explain it. And unlike him again, she did not wait until after the renegotiation to announce it. She did so, in effect, after Camerons talks with Donald Tusk the previous week that were followed by a draft deal. In other words, she got her apparent change of course in relatively early. So what on earth has she been up to? One view is that she considered doing what Boris Johnson has since done thats to say, coming out dramatically for Leave but then backed off it, putting Cabinet solidarity before her leadership ambitions. This may be so, but I hesitantly advance a different explanation namely, that her objective all along was to wring as many gains on immigration policy as she could out of the eventual deal. This meant putting pressure on Downing Street to ensure these were delivered. That, in turn, meant keeping it in the dark about her eventual intentions. For the more the Prime Minister would worry about her declaring for Leave, the more he would strain to please her in his European Summit negotiations, in order to keep her on side. And so, if this take on events is right, he did. May got some restrictions on benefit claims. She got new powers to stop criminals entering Britain and new powers to deport them. She got longer re-entry bans for fraudsters and people who collude in sham marriages. You may well protest that these gains wont be delivered, or dont go far enough, and I have every sympathy with you. But that is not the point which is, rather, that they presumably satisfied her. If this interpretation is correct, the Home Secretary has observed all three of the rules I set out earlier. Her decision made sense to her. She got her decision in early signalling it before the renegotiation was complete. And she has been smart enough to keep mum about what she was up to all along. Cunning old Theresa! Close According to new study, increased exposure to air pollution increased the risk of diabetes and obesity in lab rats. Duke University researchers used lab rats for their experiment and exposed them to Beijing air or filtered air for a period of 19 days. At the end of experiment, the group that was exposed to the Beijing air had increased levels of bad cholesterol (50%), triglycerides (46%) and total cholesterol (97%), factors that attribute to the risk of diabetes and obesity, United Press International reports. Male rats who were exposed to the pollution reported 18% heavier than their partners in filtered air. If the humans face the same metabolic reaction said one of the authors from the study in a press release, "these findings will support the urgent need to reduce air pollution, given the growing burden of obesity in today's highly polluted world," says Time.com "Since chronic inflammation is recognized as a factor contributing to obesity and since metabolic diseases such as diabetes and obesity are closely related, our findings provide clear evidence that chronic exposure to air pollution increases the risk for developing obesity," said senior author Junfeng Zhang, a professor of global and environmental health at Duke University and Duke Kunshan University. "If translated and verified in humans, these findings will support the urgent need to reduce air pollution, given the growing burden of obesity in today's highly polluted world," Zhang added. Several agencies of Chinese government funded the study. The results are coherent with other studies suggesting that the air pollution stimulates oxidative stress and inflammation in circulatory systems as well as organs. It is also consistent with other studies that suggest how air pollution increases the insulin resistance and altered tissue, as reported by Latino Post See Now: What Republicans Don't Want You To Know About Obamacare Close There has been significant increase in the number of visits to ER by the tourists visiting Colorado for pot related issues than the ones living there, according to a study by the University of Colorado School of Medicine, reports LA Times The study that was published in New England Journal of Medicine revealed that the number of people reporting marijuana-related conditions in ER have doubled between 2013 and 2014. The number for the residents, however, remains steady. While the study cannot positively point to the use of marijuana as the cause of visit, said Andrew Monte, assistant professor of emergency medicine and toxicology at CU school of medicine. "Realistically, these visits could have marijuana mentioned at one point if they came and had a heart attack and said they did smoke a week ago, that would be reflected," Monte said, as reported by Chicago Tribune People coming to University of Colorado Hospital come from outside the state with marijuana complaints within the first year of retail sale of medicinal drug, discovered the study. During the same period, the state resident visits remained pretty much steady. The most common issues reported by the users to the ER department were cardio pulmonary conditions, gastrointestinal and psychiatric issues. Monte said, the use of marijuana can aggravate the existing medical problem which explains the increased number of cases. Mason Tvert from Safer Alternative for Enjoyable recreation, a marijuana advocacy group, said that there are many questions that needs answered, one of them is acclimatization to the altitude. "The number one difference between someone visiting and using marijuana and someone who lives here and using marijuana is that the person visiting has just gone to a much higher altitude and we know that's attributed to a bunch of symptoms like passing out and nausea," as reported by The Cannabist See Now: What Republicans Don't Want You To Know About Obamacare Close As people watch more television, they prefer thinner female body, said a new study. The researchers claim that they have found a direct link between ideal female body idea and TV. They were able to separate the media exposure effects from other ecological and cultural factors. For the purpose of study, scientists assessed a group of people from rural Nicaragua, as they grouped them into their levels of access to the Western media. This included people who lived in the urban areas, people from a village access to television and a village with people who had limited access to TV, as per iTV.com As per the study findings, the highest BMI preferences were in the village that had least access to media and the ones who lived in urban locales preferred to have thinner female bodies. Dr Martin Tovee, co-leader of the study from the University of Newcastle's Institute of Neuroscience said, "Our study shows that television is having a significant impact on what people think is the ideal woman's body. "Nicaragua provides a unique opportunity to study media effects as we were able to minimise variance in potential confounding factors and focus on the influence of visual media. "The differences in television access allowed us to explore how media exposure affects the size and shape women aspire to be. "Findings revealed that the more television exposure people receive, the thinner a female body women and men prefer - the amount of media access directly predicts body ideals. "Overall these results strongly implicate television access in establishing risk factors for body image dissatisfaction." The study, published in the British Journal of Psychology, was conducted in two remote villages off Pearl Lagoon Basin in Mosquito Coast of Nicaragua, as reported by BT.com See Now: What Republicans Don't Want You To Know About Obamacare Kashmir: The New Wave Of Militancy! By Mohammad Ashraf 29 February, 2016 Countercurrents.org (The new generation of militants is more committed and determined independent of the external motivation and support) Recently Indian Army Commander in a press statement declared that the infiltration across LOC has reached almost to zero level. But it is a half statement only. He did not mention that in spite of zero infiltration the militancy is on the rise and there have been a number of serious encounters. He did not say a number of police personnel including a head constable and a number of constables have run away with their weapons and joined the militant ranks. Most of the New militants are highly motivated and educated persons. Secondly, apart from huge crowds attending the funerals of militants, youth have been coming out at the encounter sites to create disturbances allowing militants to escape. This is a big change which is not being admitted by the concerned people. They have only warned people to stay away from the encounter sites for their own safety. Probably, they do not want this trend to become a part of the new wave of militancy. However, no one can arrest the trend because it is a natural reaction to continuous oppression which has reached a crescendo in the recent times. In early nineties when the Kashmiri youth started an armed resistance movement, the motive was more sentimental and emotional. Moreover, the sentiment had been hijacked and exploited by external supporters. The youth, even though physically strong and sentimental, were not mentally prepared and motivated for a long militant struggle. In fact, the sentiment was exploited by the external agencies to introduce their own thought stream. Guns were put in the hands of the young men who had not yet reached the motivation level of armed resistance in their minds. It was because of this that a number of youth had been turned around and many had surrendered. Some of the militants had even become blackmailers. The turmoil of nineties which resulted in thousands of deaths and injuries, started building upthe motivation. A new generation of Kashmiri youth came of age during that period of conflict and in the following years. These people had seen nothing but the high-handedness of the security personnel. They were witnesses to the massacres, fires, and rapes. A desire for revenge slowly started building in their psyche. There rose a very strong wave of alienation which is on the increase. The level of alienation can be judged from the fact that during the recent encounter in Pampore, women were singing lullaby songs for the militants fighting the forces! Incidentally, as an interim new development, there was a calming down of the situation in the start of the present century and the militancy appeared to be declining. However, with the continued wave of suppression and the events of 2008 and 2010 when the young boys fought the bullets of the security forces with stones, the alienation again started rising. The main cause of this renewed upheaval was the total suppression of the freedom of expression. There were many other factors including the frustration of highly educated youth. The unemployment rose to all time high of almost a million educated youth. Kashmiri students studying or working in different parts of India were always on their toes because of local threats of the Hindutva brigade as well as extreme harassment of the security agencies. After every untoward incident, the first suspects are the Kashmiris. The recent upheaval in JNU has again made the Kashmiri students the first target of the security agencies and many students are returning to Kashmir. The so called mainstream politicians even though giving lip service to the sufferings of the people have totally failed to get any tangible relaxation in the grip of the security forces. Their failure to even soften or repeal the AFSPA (The Armed Forces Special Powers Act) which gives total impunity to soldiers to kill anyone or destroy any property has worsened the situation further. It is a well-known fact that Guerrilla War is the weapon of the weak against the strong. Universally, it has not been possible even for super powers to win such a war. Be it the French in Algeria, the Italians in Libya, the Americans in Vietnam or in the recent times both the Russians and the Americans in Afghanistan. In the long run, they had to bow before the will of the people. It is time for the Indian Governmentto realise the truth that it is impossible in the long run to suppress the feelings and aspirations of the people.It must also be mentioned that keeping an entire population against their will is a costly affair. The security itself costs billions of rupees. For a developing country like India it is a big drain.The money being spent on the security grid could very well be utilised for the wellbeing of the millions living under the poverty line. The recent upheaval in JNU related to Kashmir situation indicates that the new generation of Indians does not accept the oppression of people simply for their views. It is a bold first step for engaging the people in a dialogue rather than suppressing them by showering bullets. The youth of Kashmir too have welcomed the move and extended support to the JNU initiative. It has been easy for the Indian government to unleash off and on violence on Kashmiris for their total suppression but they will not be able to do the same on the students of JNU and some other institutions where the youth are realising the truth of the Kashmir Story. It could be the nemesis for the pseudo nationalists pulling India to disintegration and could open up the way to fulfil the long pending aspirations of the Kashmiri people. Time only will show. Incidentally, the first wave of militancy had come after the hanging of Maqbool Butt and this wave has come after the hanging of Afzal Guru! Mohammad Ashraf, I.A.S. (Retired) is Former Director General Tourism, Jammu & Kashmir), We Came! We Saw! He Died!: Reflections On Libya By Prof. Francis A. Boyle 29 February, 2016 Countercurrents.org I have unique experience in Libya. To the best of my knowledge, during the 1980s I was perhaps the only American professor to spend a significant amount of time in Libya because of the serial armed hostilities and the imposition of draconian travel prohibitions and economic sanctions inflicted by the Reagan administration. I spent a sum total of four weeks in Libya on three different trips. In 1985 Libya invited me to conduct a week-long lecture tour and visit. I lectured at universities in Tripoli and Benghazi. I also lectured live on Libyan national television from their studio in Tripoli, and some of my public lectures were broadcasted by Libyan television. During my first trip to Libya, I spent an entire day visiting their museum dedicated to the documentation of the Holocaust that had been perpetrated upon them by Italy. In 1911 Italy had attacked and invaded the territory we now call Libya and proceeded to occupy it until toward the end of the Second World War. During this period of time (1912-1943), Italy exterminated somewhere between 250,000 and 300,000 Libyans out of a population of somewhere between 800,000 and 1 million at the time. About one-third of all Libyans. In proportional terms, this approached the Nazi Holocaust against the Jews. Of course Italy also exterminated Jews and Ethiopians as well as Libyans. These victims included the Italian murder of Libyas acclaimed national liberation hero and martyr, Omar Muktar. At their request, I would later advise Libya on how to sue Italy over its colonization and outright genocide perpetrated against the Libyans. Protracted negotiations between Libya and Italy eventually led to a settlement of those claims that was concluded between Colonel Qaddafi and Prime Minister Sylvio Berlusconi in 2008, providing for a $5 billion dollar compensation package to be transferred to Libya over twenty years. This token sum was a mere pittance compared to the actual number of human deaths and the amount of physical destruction that Italy had inflicted upon Libya. Nevertheless, that agreement was treacherously repudiated by Berlusconi during the course of his 2011 war against Libya. Berlusconis illegal and despicable act has re-opened Libyas claims for colonization and genocide against Italy. During my first trip to Libya, I was surprised to see that women were free and empowered to do anything they wanted all over the country. I asked my government-provided translator about this. He advised: Qaddafi decreed that women are equal to men. The old men dont like it. But there is nothing they can do about it. As I can attest from my three trips to Libya, under Qaddafi women held up half the sky in that country. I doubt very seriously that the 2011 US/NATO war will advance the cause of women in Libya. Indeed, Libyan women could very well retrogress from Qaddafis days as, undoubtedly, will the general well being of the Libyan population from its standing in the 2010 UN Human Development Index. In 1987 I returned to Libya for another two weeks after the Reagan administration had bombed Tripoli and Benghazi in 1986 and attempted to murder the entire Qaddafi family sleeping in their home at night. I visited all the bombing sites in the Metropolitan Tripoli area and had a tour of the bombed-out Qaddafi home. I then had a meeting with Colonel Qaddafi in his tent where we discussed what happened to him and his family on the night of the bombing. Qaddafi was a Bedouin from the desert, so he liked to meet guests and conduct business in a pitched tent. It was a practice which he carried out even on travel to the U.N. in New York, for which he was generally ridiculedthough in actuality it represented his determination to maintain his cultural identity, symbolic of his ongoing commitment to his people, rather than to the imperial west. At the end of that meeting I agreed with Colonel Qaddafi to work with former U.S. Attorney General Ramsey Clark on filing lawsuits in United States federal courts over the bombings against President Reagan, Secretary of Defense Weinberger, Director of the C.I.A. Casey, the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff, the U.S. Commander of NATO, the Commander of the U.S. Sixth Fleet, and U.K. Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, who gave permission to Reagan to use a U.K. base where U.S. bombers were stationed to bomb Libyatogether with suing both the United States and the United Kingdom. We lost. Two lawyers against two empires. In June of 1988 I returned to Libya as their guest in order to attend the session of their Basic Popular Congress meeting in Beida for the adoption of the Great Green Charter for Peace and Human Rights. Interestingly enough, Colonel Qaddafi proposed to abolish the death penalty for Libya. But the Basic Popular Congress rejected his humanitarian initiative: Democracy in action! While there I also provided commentary to C.B.S. Evening News about what precisely was going on and its significance for promoting human rights internally Over the years, I would routinely give interviews to Western news media sources about Libya and the prospects for the United States government to overthrow Colonel Qaddafi. I always pointed out that the American government should be careful of what it wished for: Instead of installing a C.I.A. stooge, the United States could get a fundamentalist religious leader sitting on top of Libyas oil fields and occupying that strategic piece of real estate in North Africa and on the southern rim of the Mediterranean right next to Egypt. Colonel Qaddafis foremost opponents had always been Libyas Muslim fundamentalists who detested him for (1) his secular-nationalist rule deliberately modeled upon his hero and role model, Egypts Gamal Abdel Nasser; (2) his liberation and empowerment of Libyan women; and (3) Qaddafis Green Book that tried to carve-out a third way between capitalism and communism that was consistent with Islam, but which they nevertheless considered to be heretical. For the most part, Libyans constitute a moderate Sunni Muslim population. Yet in order to overthrow Qaddafi in 2011, the U.S. and NATO states worked hand-in-glove with Libyan and foreign Muslim fundamentalists including elements of Al Qaeda and Salafists. Somalia on the Med, anyone? After the Bush Senior administration came to power, in late 1991 they opportunistically accused Libya of somehow being behind the 1988 bombing of the Pan American jet over Lockerbie, Scotland. I advised Libya on this matter from the very outset. Indeed, prior thereto I had predicted to Libya that they were going to be used by the United States government as a convenient scapegoat over Lockerbie for geopolitical reasons. Publicly sensationalizing these allegations, in early 1992 President Bush Senior then mobilized the U.S. Sixth Fleet off the coast of Libya on hostile aerial and naval maneuvers in preparation for yet another military attack exactly as the Reagan administration had done repeatedly throughout the 1980s. I convinced Colonel Qaddafi to let us sue the United States and the United Kingdom at the International Court of Justice in The Hague over the Lockerbie bombing allegations; to convene an emergency meeting of the World Court; and to request the Court to issue the international equivalent of temporary restraining orders against the United States and the United Kingdom so that they would not attack Libya again as they had done before. After we had filed these two World Court lawsuits, President Bush Senior ordered the Sixth Fleet to stand down. There was no military conflict between the United States and Libya. There was no war. No one died. A tribute to international law, the World Court, and its capacity for the peaceful settlement of international disputes. Pursuant to our World Court lawsuits, in February of 1998 the International Court of Justice rendered two Judgments against the United States and the United Kingdom that were overwhelmingly in favor of Libya on the technical, jurisdictional and procedural elements involved in these two cases. It was obvious from reading these Judgments that at the end of the day Libya was going to win its World Court lawsuits against the United States and the United Kingdom over the substance of their Lockerbie bombing allegations. These drastically unfavorable World Court Judgments convinced the United States and the United Kingdom to offer a compromise proposal to Libya whereby the two Libyan nationals accused by the U.S. and the U.K. of perpetrating the Lockerbie bombing would be tried before a Scottish Court sitting in The Hague, the seat of the World Court. Justice was never done. This book tells the inside story of why not. When the US/NATO war began against Libya in March of 2011, Colonel Qaddafi immediately disappeared underground, fearing yet another Western attempt to murder him and his family, which later happened. I spent several months engaged in fruitless efforts to get into contact with Colonel Qaddafi to obtain his authorization for filing lawsuits at the International Court of Justice in The Hague against the United States and the NATO states in order to stop their bombing campaign against Libya. All to no avail. Colonel Qaddafi fought and died for Libya against the West just like his hero Omar Mukhtar had done. Indeed, on the basis of that precedent, I had predicted that Qaddafi would fight to the death for Libya and not flee his country in order to save his own life. Far exceeding my expectations, Colonel Qaddafi resisted the most powerful military alliance ever assembled in the history of the world for seven months. A real modern-day Hannibal! Colonel Qaddafi ruled Libya like the traditional Arab Shaikh of a Bedouin tribe. Indeed, Libya as a state consisted of an amalgamation of disparate Arab and Tuareg tribes that Qaddafi had melded together into his Jamahiriya system, a state of the masses. The jury is still out on whether or not this now discombobulation of tribes living in Libya can ever be reconstituted as a functioning state after the U.S./NATO war. Libya stands on the verge of a statehood crack-up, as was the U.S./N.A.T.O. intention from the get-go. Today Libya reminds me of the well-known children's nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty: Humpty Dumpty sat on a wall. Humpty Dumpty had a great fall. All the kings horses and all the kings men, Couldnt put Humpty back together again. Professor Francis A. Boyle, University of Illinois College of Law, served as Legal Adviser to the PLO and Chairman Yasser Arafat on the 15 November 1988 Palestinian Declaration of Independence and as legal adviser to the Palestinian delegation to the Middle East peace negotiations and its chair Dr. Haidar Abdul Shaffi from 1991 to 1993. His books include Palestine, Palestinians, and International Law (2003) and The Palestinian Right of Return under International Law (2011). The Scandal Of Voter Supression By William John Cox 29 February, 2016 Countercurrents.org Ostensibly, universal voting is the ideal of a free and democratic republic; however, barriers have been placed between many citizens and the ballot box ever since the creation of the United States. Many of these obstacles, such as property ownership and the racially-biased poll tax, have been removed. They are, however, being replaced by voter identification (ID) laws and other voter suppression schemes designed to discourage and prevent many, otherwise eligible voters from participating in elections. Voter suppression takes many forms andin its aggregatecould allow the election of a president in the November 2016 election who is not the choice of the American People. Voter Suppression. Approximately one quarter of all qualified voters are not registered, and many state laws and administrative practices are aimed at blockingrather than encouragingtheir enrollment. These include the imposition of arbitrarily short deadlines for the submission of voter registration forms; imposing harsh penalties for administrative errors; and even requiring the forms to be printed on very specific weights of paper. On the other hand, some states such as California, automatically register all eligible voters when they apply for driver's licenses, and a number of states now allow online registration. Other devices to suppress voting involve the unnecessary purging of registration rolls to remove qualified people; the deliberate misallocation of election resources resulting in long lines in low-income and college precincts; misleading voters regarding procedures and locations for voting; and "caging," which involves sending certified letters to voters and striking registrations for those whose letters are returned as undeliverable. Scandalous as these plots may be, they verge on criminal conspiracies when they are directed by politically partisan secretaries of state and other officials who have the responsibility to ensure elections are fair and unbiased. Although some suppression dirty tricks are bipartisanfour Kerry supporters were convicted of vandalism for slashing the tires of vans intended to transport Republican voters to the polls in 2004it is primarily Republicans and other conservatives who engage in voter suppression. Many of these individuals and groups consider voting to be a privilege, instead of a right, and they are untroubled by efforts to reduce the voting participation by certain groups, such as racial minorities, students, and the poor, who traditionally vote for Democratic candidates. The most successful electoral subversion results from voter ID laws passed in many states in the past 15 years. These laws have been enactedpurportedly to prevent voter fraud, in which an ineligible voter impersonates an eligible voter. Typically, these laws require the presentation of photographic identification, such as a driver's license or passport in order to vote. In truth, these laws are a blatant stratagem to prevent the political opposition from voting. As the less popular party, many Republicans unabashedly admit the purpose and consequence of these laws. One Republican legislator in Michigan warned, "If we do not suppress the Detroit vote, we're going to have a tough time in this election;" Another legislator believed the Pennsylvania voter ID law would "allow Governor Romney to win the state," while another bragged that the Pennsylvania laws "cut Obama by five percent" and that "voter ID helped a bit in that." The former head of the Florida Republican Party acknowledged that "We've got to cut down on early voting because early voting is not good for us." Presidential candidate Governor John Kasich agreed: "I guess I really actually feel we shouldn't contort the voting process to accommodate the urbanread African-Americanvoter-turnout machine." Prior to dropping out of the presidential race, Governor Chris Christie said that Republicans need to win gubernatorial races so they can control the "voting mechanism" in the presidential election. There are millions of otherwise eligible voters in the United States (as many as ten percent) who do not possess acceptable photographic identification. If the reason is a lack of money to pay the licensing fee, voter ID laws have the same effect as the Jim Crow poll tax did in the South. The laws disproportionately affect the young, disabled, seniors, minorities, and the poor and disadvantaged of every race. One rigorous academic study conducted at UC San Diego concluded, "We find that strict voter identification laws do, in fact, substantially alter the makeup of who votes and ultimately do skew democracy in favor of whites and those on the political right." The reality is that voter fraud is very rare, and when it does occur, it would not be prevented by voter ID laws. An in-depth study by the Walter Cronkite School of Journalism and Mass Communication at Arizona State University involved travel to 40 cities, 21 states, interviews of more than 1,000 people, and reviews of nearly 5,000 public documents. The effort identified only 10 cases of voter impersonation in more than a decade. There were more cases of absentee ballot fraud and registration fraud, which would not have been prevented by the voter ID laws. The conservative political bias of suppression laws is indicated by the fact that more than half of all state photo ID legislation resulted from the efforts of the conservative, corporate-sponsored, American Legislative Exchange Council (ALEC). Sixty-two bills based on the model ALEC Voter ID Act have been introduced in state legislatures. Of the 22 states in which new voting restrictions have been passed, 18 have Republican-controlled legislatures. The underlying racial basis of these laws was revealed by the Brennan Center for Justice which determined that of the 11 states with the highest numbers of African American voters in 2008, seven have since passed voter suppression laws. Of the 12 states with rapidly growing Hispanic populations, nine have enacted new restrictions. Finally, nine of the states formerly supervised by the Voting Rights Acts because of past racial discrimination have passed new voter suppression laws. With Congress and the state legislatures and judiciaries increasingly controlled by corporations and the financial elite, there is little hope for legislative action or judicial relief to reduce the scandal of voter suppression. In 2008, a conservative majority of the U.S. Supreme Court approved an Indiana voter ID laweven though it had a partisan basisbecause it was not "excessively burdensome" to most voters. The decision followed an earlier one in 2000 in which the Court affirmed that the Constitution "does not protect the right of all citizens to vote, but rather the right of all qualified citizens to vote." Amazingly, the Court shortly thereafter admitted in Bush v. Gore that "the individual citizen has no federal constitutional right to vote." A Voters' Bill of Rights. The only way to assure the voting power of the American People and to ensure the United States continues as a representative democracy is to amend the constitution to include a Voters' Bill of Rights. The United States Voters' Rights Amendment (USVRA) not only specifically guarantees a right to cast effective votes in all elections, but it also includes specific provisions regarding voter participation and suppression. Any lingering doubt about the necessity of a constitutional amendment was quashed by another opinion of the Supreme Court rendered immediately prior to the 2014 midterm elections. The decision reversed a Federal District Court in Texas, which had ruled that the state's voter ID law unconstitutionally prevented more than 600,000 registered Texans from voting. The lower court had found the law was adopted "with an unconstitutional discriminatory purpose" and that it placed "an unconstitutional burden on the right to vote." The conservative majority of the Supreme Court disagreeddirectly cutting off the access of more than a half million Texans to the polls and challenging the votes of millions of other Americans subject to similar laws in other states. Previously, the Texas voter ID law had been blocked by the Voting Rights Act, which required jurisdictions with a history of racial discrimination to obtain permission before changing voting procedures. That provision of the Act was earlier struck down by the Supreme Court in 2013, and Texas officials announced they would begin enforcing the state's new voter ID law. In her dissent to the 2014 decision, Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg said, "A sharply disproportionate percentage of those voters are African American or Hispanic." She added that "racial discrimination in elections in Texas is no mere historical artifact." Whether affected by strict photo ID rules or other forms of voter suppression, the turnout for the 2014 midterm elections was the lowest since 1942. The effect was shown by the difference between Texaswith the most restrictive rules and a 33.6 percent turnoutand Colorado, Washington and Oregon, which permit everyone to vote by mail, and their participation rates of 53, 54, and 69 percent, respectively. The United States Voters' Rights Amendment is a broad-spectrum treatment regimen specifically formulated to cure a variety of illnesses currently infecting representative democracy in America. Voter encouragement and suppression is covered by Section Three: The States shall ensure that all citizens who are eligible to vote are registered to vote. In balancing the public benefit of maximum voter participation with the prevention of voting fraud, Congress and the States shall not impose any unjustifiable restriction on registration or voting by citizens. The intentional suppression of voting is hereby prohibited and, in addition to any other penalty imposed by law, any person convicted of the intentional suppression of voting shall be ineligible for any public office for a period of five years following such conviction. Universal voting is also encouraged by Section Eleven, which requires that "Federal elections conducted every second year shall be held on a national voters' holiday, with full pay for all citizens who cast ballots." Voting Fuels the Flame of Freedom. The scandal of voter suppression corrupts the core of representative democracy, and the quality and effectiveness of political representation is directly related to the percentage of voter participation. Unless representatives are selected by the greatest number and broadest range of voters possible, the processes of government will not reflect the true will of the People. Indeed, if the current trend continues, the United States government will become an irrevocable plutocracy instead of a democracy; government of, by, and for the People will cease to exist; and the flame of freedomno longer fueled by effective votingwill be extinguished. William John Cox is a retired public interest lawyer. His new book, "Transforming America: A Voters' Bill of Rights" presents the United States Voters' Rights Amendment. He can be reached through his website, http://www.williamjohncox.com We May Not Get One More Socrates, But One Sartre Must Come Out By Debabrata De 29 February, 2016 Countercurrents.org A. What a Coincidence! : Few days back, when a debate happened in Zee Media sponsored famous Jaipur Literary Festival on the topic Is Freedom of Speech Absolute and Unconditional, at the same day Man Booker Prize winner writer-activist Arundhati Roy appeared at a Nagpur court, for writing an article (ref-1) in Outlook magazine around seven months earlier, criticizing the system for not allowing bail to wheelchair-bound 90% physically disabled G. N. Sai Baba, a Delhi University professor, arrested for alleged Maoist links. Along with many people I also hoped that therell be a large protest by writers and intellectuals in the event, against the legal action for expressing an independent view in the form of writing, whatever may be the situation was. But everything was fine and cool enough in the festival, as most of the Indian writers who was supposed to initiate the protest, actually not bothered about the issue, because it was not their point of interest. Now a days, these Indian writers only focus to write a dramatic fiction which can attract the producers of Bollywood for their next movies. 12 February evening Prof. Amartya Sen delivered a lecture at New Delhi on The Centrality of the Right to Dissent. The next day Kanhaiya Kumar, a New Delhi based Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU) student leader was arrested for delivering a speech inside the campus, based on some media reports and videos, mostly initiated by Zee Media, before verifying the authenticity of the reports and videos. B. (Pseudo) Nationalism? : Yes, I do not think anybody anti-national, or separatist if he/she does not look the things with the same eye of the state, or protest against any decision of state or court. And of course, I do not support the arrest of anybody, anywhere, for expressing views in a peaceful way, whatever the situation may be. Not for Kanhaiya Kumar, and other JNU students. Not for Aseem Trivedi, who was arrested in 2012, for his critical cartoon on corruption and political situation in India. Not for Leyla Zana, a house wife turned peace activist and an elected MP in Turkey from Kurdish region, who was imprisoned several times for her independent speech and peaceful protest. Not for Ashraf Fayadh, a poet of Palestinian origin, received death sentence in Saudi Arabia, for writing a poem-book named Instructions Within, and for his atheist view. C. Identification Politics: I hope now some of you are happy, as you found a cause to ignore me. I know, you have just identified me, as a Communist, because Ive criticized incidents happened in both present (BJP), and past (INC lead) government (other than outside India). But, youre wrong. So, am I a student from JNU or JU? Absolutely not, even as a student, I wasnt involved with any political party. So, what next? What I may be, an anarchist, an anti-national? You can carry on the searching with your pseudo-intellectual associates. But, believe me, one need not to be communist, or supporter of any political party, or JNU- JU student, or anti national, or anarchist, to protest against injustice, and to support individuals for their democratic rights. D. Media Trial & Mob Justice: Im against media trial. I dont want to learn loving our country from Mr. Sudhir Chaudhary (CEO- Zee News Media), who was arrested in 2012, and spent nights at Tihar Jail, for allegedly trying to extort Rs.100 crore. But what a surprise, now he is getting X-category security, from our government. I dont want to learn loving our country from the lawyers, who lead the mob to attack the peacefully protesting students and journalists in front of a court house in our national capital. I think these lawyers and their followers are not only anti-democratic, but also anti-humanist. E. Intellectual Influence: Im sorry Mr. T. V. Mohandas Pai (ref-2). As a taxpayer, I wish to spend my money more, for education in institutes like JNU, JU, etc. where at least some students have spinal cord, just like a human. I do not consider Mr. Chetan Bhagat more than a fiction writer, who has only target to attract Bollywood producers. So Ive not taken his comment (The best part of JNU is Gangs Dhaba. The rest is not to be taken seriously, ref-3) seriously! F. Development? : Its my choice not to consider the spending of few thousand crores money for making some great statues for some big-chest leaders, when thousands of farmers and tea plantation labors are dying for lack of food, medicine and other basic requirements. You can consider it as development, but I cannot. I can only call it as improper and wrong utilization of resources and capabilities of our country. Oh, Bullet Train? Please read the article (ref-4) of Prof. Jean Dreze, a well-known economist, before considering the Bullet Train as one of the greatest development for India. G. What Can Be Done? : i) The people who respect individual freedom, expect for himself/herself, and want to extend his/her support to those who need, should come forward and join altogether, to form a much bigger platform. ii) The common people like us, should be more active and should discuss & debate. Believe me, as long as well not discuss and debate among ourselves, the people like Arnab Goswami will spoil our natural ability of thinking. Lets talk and debate on the concept of nation, concept of development, concept of nonviolence, concept of freedom, to understand the issues before taking a decision, and of course before defending our thinking. We may not get one more Socrates to save us from danger, but one Sartre must come out from ourselves, at least to show the way of thinking. Reference (ref): ref-1: http://www.outlookindia.com/magazine/story/professor-pow/294265 ref-2: http://www.ndtv.com/opinion/dear-jnu-students-we-fund-your-studies-not-your-politics-1277417 ref-3: http://indianexpress.com/article/trending/trending-in-india/chetan-bhagat-on-jnu-row-twitter-gets-a-trolling-again/ ref-4: http://scroll.in/article/804016/the-bullet-train-syndrome-perpetuates-an-elitist-approach-to-the-indian-railways I am a twenty-nine year aged human, who tries to look things from his own view and always try to optimize the view with respect to ideal nature. I have completed early schooling at a village of West Bengal, hundred and thirty kilometres from Kolkata, and later completed B. Tech. in Chemical Technology, from University of Calcutta, in 2010 and since then, have been working in private sector chemical companies for process and technology development works. I lived and visited many places in India, because of my work requirement, and personal interest. During last one and half year, I have been living at Ankleshwar in Gujarat. Is Sisi Plotting With Israel To Have Dahlan Replace Abbas? By Alan Hart 29 February, 2016 Countercurrents.org It's not too much of a secret that Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, a Trump-like megalomaniac and a tyrant with few equals, is happy to do dirty work for Israel. And it may now be that he is seeking to prepare the ground for Mohammed Dahlan, almost certainly an American and Israeli intelligence asset (not a fulltime agent) to succeed Mahmoud Abbas as president of the Palestinian Authority (PA). After the signing of the Oslo Accord in Washington D.C. in 1993, Dahlan was chosen by the Americans to head the (Palestinian) Preventive Security Force (PSF) in Gaza. Armed, funded and trained by the Americans it became a Fatah force of 20,000 which made Dahlan one of the most powerful Palestinian leaders. His forces were regularly accused of torturing Hamas detainees throughout the 1990's and during this period the Gaza Strip was nicknamed "Dahlanistan" because of the man's power. As the head of the PSF Dahlan had regular dealings with CIA and Israeli intelligence officials. President George "Dubya" Bush himself had at least three meetings with Dahlan and after the first one he publicly praised Dahlan as "a good, solid leader." In private the president went further describing Dahlan as "our guy.". The time was coming when he would prove that he was. In 2007 Dahlan said "Yes" to an American request to prepare his forces for an all-out attack on Hamas to destroy it by force. So far as American (and many European) policy makers were concerned Hamas had to be destroyed because of its victory in the 2006 elections for the second Palestinian Legislative Council. Hamas won 74 of the 132 seats, 29 more than the ruling Fatah, and its leader, Ismail Haniya, went on to form a government. There was, of course, no way the Bush administration was going to allow it to survive. Unfortunately for Dahlan and his American masters Hamas got wind of the plan to eliminate it and launched an Israeli-like pre-emptive strike which drove the PSF forces and their leader out of the Gaza Strip. After this development a refreshingly honest analysis was delivered by David Wurmser who had served as Vice President Dick Cheney's chief Middle East adviser. He said he believed that Hamas had had no intention of taking over the Gaza Strip until Fatah forced its hand. "It looks to me," he declared, "that what happened wasn't a coup by Hamas but an attempted coup by Fatah that was pre pre-empted before it could happen." He went on: "The Bush administration engaged in a dirty war in an effort to provide a corrupt dictatorship (the Palestinian Authority led by President Mahmoud Abbas) with victory." Wurmser also said that he was especially galled by the Bush administration's hypocrisy. "There is a stunning disconnect between the president's call for Middle East democracy and this policy. It directly contradicts it." Dahlan's humiliating defeat in the Gaza Strip did not diminish the Bush administration's support for him. In October 2007 it reportedly subjected Abbas to heavy pressure in an effort to persuade him to appoint Dahlan as his deputy. Fatah officials were quoted as saying that the US and some EU countries would like to see Dahlan succeed Abbas as head of the PA. Abbas was only one of very many Palestinians who believed, as I do, that it was Dahlan who delivered and placed for Mossad, Israel's national intelligence agency, the poison (polonium-210 or whatever) that killed Yasser Arafat. Driven by this belief and fear that he might well be Dahlan's next victim Abbas gave the order for him to be expelled from Fatah. That was in June 2011. Three months later Dahlan's house was raided by Palestinian police and his private armed guards were arrested. Subsequently Dahlan was banished from what is left of Palestine and took up residence in Dubai. (He and his wife Jaleela and their four children have Serbian citizenship and Dahlan himself also has Montenegrin citizenship). Today and assisted by the fact that a majority of the occupied and oppressed Palestinians are sick and tired of the impotence and corruption of the PA, Dahlan is seeking to make a comeback. And his chief promoter is Egypt's President Sisi. Last November at a meeting in Cairo he presented Abbas with a "road map" for cleaning up the Palestinian political arena. Sisi's main demand - his price for a continuing relationship with the PA - was reconciliation between Abbas and Dahlan. All the indications are that Sisi wants Dahlan to be Abbas's successor. Two related questions seem to me to be in order. The first is - Why, really, does Sisi want Dahlan to be the next president of the PA? The short answer is - Because that's what Israel's leaders want. The second question is - Why, really, do Israel's leaders want Dahlan to be Abbas's successor? The short answer is that they hope and perhaps even believe that he would be prepared to use force to compel the Palestinians to accept crumbs from Zionism's table - isolated Bantustans on 30-40 percent of the West Bank which they could call a state. My speculation is that even if Sisi-led Arab plotting and bribery did result in Dahlan replacing Abbas as president of the PA, he would almost certainly be assassinated if he tried to impose Zionism's surrender terms on the Palestinians. Alan Hart is a former ITN and BBC Panorama foreign correspondent. He is author of Zionism: The Real Enemy of the Jews. He blogs at http://www.alanhart.net and tweets via http://twitter.com/alanauthor Political Violence, Rational Ignorance, And Political Illiteracy In Bangladesh By Taj Hashmi 29 February, 2016 Countercurrents.org There was yet another shocking headline in Daily Star of Bangladesh (Feb 22): Priest killed, devotee shot. Some unknown assailants raided a Hindu temple, slit the throat of a priest, and shot a devotee at Panchagarh in northern Bangladesh. This wasnt a random violent crime. Of late, there is nothing exceptional about premeditated attacks on minority communities or on people holding divergent views on religion and politics across the country. Unfortunately, most Bangladeshis, first of all, dont consider such violence as politically motivated; and secondly, people are no longer that vocal against random or selective killing of people by criminals, terrorists, or law-enforcers unlike their predecessors, who wouldnt remain quiet at any violent attack on fellow citizens by anybody. This was the norm across Bangladesh up to the mid-1980s. Although the average Bangladeshis still take interest in local and national politics, yet their interest is dwindling. Firstly, the bulk of Bangladeshis seem to have become thoroughly depoliticized; and secondly, they dont know politics has everything to do with violent attacks on minority communities, women, writers, journalists and others. This apathy has nothing to do with the victims religion, political views, gender, or profession. The number of unresolved killings and disappearance of people has desensitised people; and to some extent, this apathy may be attributed to what political scientists consider political illiteracy and rational ignorance, which have devastating effects on political order, social cohesion, democracy, and freedom. Desensitised, apathetic, apolitical, and ignorant people throughout history have succumbed to absolute dictatorships in the name of religion, racist nationalism, or communism. Im going to elaborate these concepts with regard to the prevalent political culture of Bangladesh. Despite what many Bangladeshis brag about themselves as being one of the most politically conscious people in the world, actually the overwhelming majority of people in the country are among the least politically conscious, and disillusioned people anywhere. Most decent people in society have shunned politics altogether, and rogue and corrupt elements have filled in the void. While nincompoops and least desirable people have become politicians and fabulously rich through the profession of politics, hardly anybody ever raises this question, and nobody seems embarrassed about this weird state of affairs in the country! On the one hand, peoples lack of interest in raising questions about peoples illegitimately acquired wealth and power through politics is fear-induced; on the other, it also reflects peoples political apathy or rational ignorance, and political illiteracy. The understanding of rational ignorance and political illiteracy requires an understanding of what democracy and politics are all about. People everywhere learn about the intricacies of politics not only from textbooks, but also from enlightened politicians. Whats Bangladesh today is no exception in this regard. People here used to learn about democracy, peoples rights and responsibilities, and about politics in general from political stalwarts like A.K. Fazlul Huq, Maulana Bhashani, H.S. Suhrawardy, and Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. There was a dialogue between leaders and their followers; they understood each other, and learnt a lot from each other too. Not anymore! One of the most famous political scientists, Robert Dahl believes everything in human relationship in power perspective is political. He thinks politics in democratic setup is what A is getting from B to do what A wants through rational or manipulative persuasion, inducement, influence, authority and power. Since coercion and the physical force to back it up are integral to autocracy, democratic politics is all about effective participation, equal voting rights for all, and inclusiveness. Thanks to the prevalence of unethical politics in Bangladesh, people in general dont trust politicians. In a society devoid of mutual trust and respect, politics in Bangladesh all about what A can get from B in the most unscrupulous way. Thus people here believe its irrational to learn anything more about politics especially from politicians as they see no benefit in politics. Renowned economist and political thinker Anthony Downss theory of rational ignorance is very pertinent to our understanding of political apathy in Bangladesh. In his seminal work An Economic Theory of Democracy he has defined political apathy as rational ignorance of people when they find the cost of learning something more expensive than any potential benefit from what they learn. This has consequences for the quality of decisions made by large numbers of people, during general elections, where the probability of any one vote changing the outcome is very small. Rational ignorance perpetuates blind political support or loyalty among citizens to particular political parties, X, Y, or Z. The loyal voters are too lazy to investigate if the old policies of their party has changed, or not suitable in the present, or the new leaders are less honest and capable than their predecessors. What famous German playwright Bertolt Brecht has defined as political illiteracy is the next most logical stage of a rationally ignorant nation. Despite the popular perception in Bangladesh, thanks to the manipulative and corrupt politicians, the overwhelming majority of people in the country are among the most rationally ignorant, and politically illiterate in the world. The fatal combination of rational ignorance and political illiteracy has turned the brave nation of Bangladesh which in our recent memory was a nation of freedom fighters into a nation of supine underdogs, and conformist subalterns. Its time that politically conscious and patriotic elements in the country tell the people nothing is more important to know than the reality that everything that affects our living is political. We need to pay heed to what Brecht has said in regard to political illiteracy: The worst illiterate is the political illiterate, he doesnt hear, doesnt speak, nor participates in the political events. He doesnt know the cost of life, the price of the bean, of the fish, of the flour, of the rent, of the shoes and of the medicine, all depends on political decisions. The political illiterate is so stupid that he is proud and swells his chest saying that he hates politics. The imbecile doesnt know that, from his political ignorance is born the prostitute, the abandoned child, and the worst thieves of all, the bad politician, corrupted and flunky of the national and multinational companies. Politically apathetic people lose their sense of belonging to a nation, or even to a bigger entity called humanity, which are larger than their families, clans and ethno-religious communities. They become apathetic self-seekers, most unwilling to do anything for collective benefits of people not related to them by blood or by mutually beneficial ties. German pastor Martin Niemoller has beautifully narrated what happens to perpetually apathetic people in totalitarian countries. Niemoller who spent seven years in Hitlers concentration camp wrote a poem about the fate of politically indifferent people from his own experience: First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out Because I was not a Socialist.... Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out Because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me and there was no one left to speak for me. Unless Bangladeshis shun political apathy, doctors fight for journalists and truck drivers; engineers defend garment factory workers rights; professionals fight for equal opportunities for all; men fight for women, and women for men; rich fight for the poor, and poor for the rich, the country will remain politically inert, socially backward, and economically stagnant without any rule of law and equity. I believe political apathy is the mother of all evils in Bangladesh. Theres hardly anything in life beyond politics. Were all related to each other in power perspective. The writer teaches security studies at Austin Peay State University. He is the author of several books, including Global Jihad and America: The Hundred-Year War Beyond Iraq and Afghanistan (Sage, 2014). Email: tajhashmi@gmail.com Denial Of Justice To Minorities In Pakistan And India By Pushkar Raj 29 February, 2016 Countercurrents.org Two recent legal developments underscore the dismal state of Hindu minority in Pakistan and Muslims in India. While Pakistans parliamentary legal select committee approved the Hindu marriage bill for its about four million Hindu population, two district courts in India began acquitting accused of the Muzaffarnagar Hindu-Muslim riots of 2013 in which 60 people were killed and thousands were displaced. The proposed Hindu marriage bill that has come after 69 years however, is only significant in a sense that now Hindus in Pakistan will be allowed to govern their civil affairs according to their own customary traditions and they will be able to get their marriages registered and properties transferred. The bill will not address the abduction, forcible conversation and marriages of the girls of Hindu community as it has a contentious provision that lays down that if any one of the Hindu couple decides to convert to another religion, the marriage will be illegal. While the proposed law, in a way, legalizes post marriage conversion, it does not put any deterrent on the pre-marriage abductions and conversions of Hindu girls. The majority of Hindu girls abducted, converted and married are below 13 years of age as post-puberty marriage of girls is allowed in Pakistan. Pakistan Human Rights Commission has noted that Pakistan state has failed to save Hindus from disgusting excesses such as forced conversion of young women. (10 August 2012). A report of Movement for Solidarity and Peace, a human rights organization based in Pakistan, estimates that nearly 1,000 non-Muslim girls are forcibly converted to Islam every year. According to Pakistan Hindu Panchyat about 1000 girls are forced to convert only in Sindh province of Pakistan each year. The courts rarely dispense justice to Hindus in Pakistan in the cases of forced marriages. So much so that a noted human rights advocate Amarnath Motumal, advises his community members not to go to courts with cases of forced marriages saying, We close the doors when we go to courts for justice. (The Express Tribune, 31 August 2014) The conditions of Muslim community in India are no better as they have also been denied justice in a systematic way over and again. The acquittal of the riots accused in the Muzaffarnagar riots cases (2013) recently is condemnable but not a new event as the instigators and executors of riots have gone unpunished in India for so long now. Muzaffarnagar riots accused have been acquitted in six different cases including dacoity, gang rape and murder. (PUDR, Press Release, 21 February 2016) In a similar way, a Delhi court in March 2015 acquitted all 16 accused in the 28-year-old Hashimpura massacre (Meerut riots, Uttar Pradesh 1989) citing insufficient evidence. 19 police force personnels were accused of picking up 42 men of the Muslim community from Hashimpura area of Merrut town and shooting them down at the nearby canal. A counsel for the victims and survivors, Rebecca John summed it, "If today is not the day we hang our heads in shame, there can be no other day", she said after the verdict. (Times of India, 22 March 15) 900 people died in Bombay riots (1993). Only three convictions have taken place in those riot cases. (The Telegraph, 30 July 2015) The Sri Krishna Commission, set up to inquire into the Bombay riots recommended de-communalization of police force as it had found bias against the Muslims in the police firing incidents. The recommendations were never implemented. The conviction rate in the Gujarat riots (2002) has been the worst so far, a negligible between 0.21 and 1.18 %. (Stanford Law School Gujarat Riots Report, May 2014) Certainly, despite the mammoth efforts of the civil society organizations and judicial intervention from the highest level- the Supreme Court of India-, it is a pathetic outcome that speaks for itself. The Prevention of the Communal Violence bill remained unlegislated in the parliament for nine years from 2005 to 20014. It was withdrawn just before the 16th general elections by the Congress party that ruled the nation for ten years giving way to BJP in power in New Delhi. The present Prime Minister, Narender Modi, called the bill a recipe for disaster, signalling that the BJP has little interest in preventing communal violence legally. (The Hindu, 5 December 2013) As the debate surrounding beef eating, sedition, anti-national, Bhartmata etc gets shriller at the behest of Hindutava forces, the Muslim minority in India is likely to come under more intense pressure. Thankfully, given the democracy in country, Muslims in India enjoy some political clout. Much of their state of survival will depend on how effectively the Muslims use this democratic power to counter the onslaught of political forces of the Hindu right which are the direct beneficiary of their continuous flogging. Pushkar Raj is an independent writer based in Melbourne. Formerly, he taught political science in Delhi University and was the national General Secretary of the Peoples Union for Civil Liberties (PUCL), India Bahujan Discourse Puts JNU In The Crosshairs By Pramod Ranjan 29 February, 2016 Forwardpress.in It is essential to find out how this university, created in 1966 by a special Act of Parliament, became a leftist bastion. The answer lies in its unique reservation system. In this university, from the very outset, aspirants from backward districts, women and other weaker sections were given preference in enrolment. Kashmiri migrants and wards and widows of defence personnel killed in action also get preference (see box). The nature of the questions in the admission tests of the university is such that only the ability to answer multiple-choice questions related to ones discipline is not enough to see one through. Only those students who have, apart from command over their own subject, analytical skills and reasoning power get admission here. The undergraduate courses of foreign languages are an exception in this regard. But even here, once they have a bachelors degree, they can join an MA or an MPhil course only if they have the aforementioned skills. Thus, for years, JNU has been home to the finest and most fertile minds from economically and socially deprived sections of society. And when they analyze the hows and whys of their socio-economic background, they get drawn to Marxism. This fully residential university, spread over 1000 acres and nestled in the lush green Aravalli Range, never attracted the elite class. The hostels serve plain food and residents drink from jugs instead of glasses. Estimates suggest that at least 70 per cent students of the university come from either poor or lower-middle-class families. Though the Left always dominated the students politics in the university, till 2006, students from economically weak but socially higher classes ruled the roost here. That was DSCN6675because they outnumbered all other groups. The number of Dalit and Tribal students was capped by the 22.5 per cent reservation for them, although OBC students have been given preference in enrolments since 1995, the credit for which goes to the agitation launched by the renowned students leader Chandrashekhar (1964-1997) (Samajik Kranti Ke Sutradhar, Ashok Kumar Sinha, Shabda Prakashan, Patna, 2012). Even then, the percentage of students from socially deprived communities, including OBCs, in the university never exceeded 28-29 per cent. In 2006, the government announced reservations for OBCs in institutions of higher learning and that drew these classes towards JNU. The fact that all students of the university get scholarships was an added attraction. As Abhay Kumar pointed out in his article Assertion of Dalitbahujan discourse in JNU, published in the August 2015 issue of FORWARD Press, According to the Annual Report 2013-14, out of the 7,677 JNU students, there were 3,648 Dalitbahujan students (1,058 SCs + 632 STs + 1948 OBCs). Simply put, the percentage of non-upper-caste students today is roughly around 50 per cent. If one includes other deprived social groups, minorities and women, the upper castes and classes are a minuscule minority. As a result, during the last three years (from 2012-14), JNUSU presidents have been from the marginalized sections of society V. Lenin Kumar (2012, SFI-JNU or DSF), an OBC from Tamil Nadu; Akbar Chawdhary (2013, AISA), a Muslim from UP; and Ashutosh Kumar (2014, AISA), a Yadav from Bihar. In 2012, OBC students were elected to all the four posts of JNUSU (See Jai Joti, Jai Bheem, Jai JNU, FORWARD Press, October 2012). The winners in the 2015 students union elections also reflect the same trend: President Kanhaiya Kumar, AISF (Bhumihar, Hindu upper caste); Vice-President Shehla Rashid, AISA (Muslim); General Secretary Rama Naga, AISA (Dalit); and Joint Secretary Saurabh Kumar, ABVP (OBC). It may be mentioned here that it was after a gap of 14 years that an ABVP candidate emerged victorious in the JNUSU elections. But his victory had a lot to do with his OBC roots as well. As the videos of his speech reveal, the current students union president Kanhaiya Kumar, who has been arrested on charges of sedition, is not only a brilliant speaker but also his speeches are a beautiful amalgam of Phule-Ambedkarism and Marxism. JNU students say that his powerful oratory was a major contributor to his victory in the elections. After the enrolments last year, the percentage of students in JNU from SC, ST and OBC has gone up to 55. A large number of Muslims are enrolled in Arabic, Persian and other language courses in JNU. Data on them is not available. But if, along with them, the number of Ashraf Muslims and other minorities is added, it can be safely presumed that at least 70 per cent of the students in the university are non-Dwij. Note that the number of OBC students in JNU has gone from 288 in 2006 to 2434 in 2015, ie a tenfold increase in nine years. The number of women students has also gone up substantially (see chart). NEW SLOGANS, NEW GRAFFITI, NEW DISCOURSES This change in the social texture of the students not only changed the composition of the students union but also the dominant discourse on the campus. Though leading students organizations continued to hold the flag of Marxism aloft, their slogans started changing. The graffiti started changing. Instead of Marx, Lenin and Mao, the slogans increasingly started quoting Birsa, Phule and Ambedkar. Portraits of Bahujan heroes who took on Manuvad and casteism started adorning the walls so much so that it became impossible for any students organization to survive on the JNU campus without sporting these symbols. And the change was not limited to slogans and graffiti; the topics of research also underwent a sea change. The students from the deprived sections brought with them life experiences and thinking processes that were, hitherto, alien to the Indian academic world. They gave a new momentum, a new energy to research in the humanities. The Left had taken a new turn a turn that took it away from the discourses that interested the upper classes. The radical Left has always been present here. Discussions on Naxalism, Maoism and freedom to Kashmir have been fairly common. The number of big and small functions and meetings on these and related issues to date must easily be in the thousands. The Mahishasur and food-freedom movements were the manifestations of the new discourses that were replacing the old ones here. They drew nationwide attention. The traditional Left either looked the other way or made it clear that it would stand by the freedom of expression and would not oppose these voices coming from the deprived sections. This was, in a sense, the coming-together of Left and Bahujan ideologies or, at the very least, the two camps agreeing on a common minimum programme. SANGH ON THE BACKFOOT The RSS calls itself a cultural organization and is perpetually busy in protecting and preserving the brahmanical culture. The young Bahujan intellectuals were dealing blow after fatal blow to the brahmanical culture, and this won them the approval of the Left in JNU. The amalgamation of the thoughts of Phule, Ambedkar, Periyar and Narayan Guru on the one hand and Marx, Lenin and Mao on the other threw up compelling arguments and incontrovertible facts. This, in turn, started influencing the students. A flummoxed Sangh did not know how to counter this assault. The deprived sections posed a stiff challenge the stiffest in independent India to the brahmanical culture, which the Sangh was trying to protect in the name of the Hindu religion, and behind it was the intellectual prowess of the JNU Bahujan research scholars. They were now capable of presenting their views in keeping with the highest academic standards. The Sangh, so far, has been using issues like cow slaughter to further its ends. It understands quite well the meaning of the proverb Give a dog a bad name and hang him. Like in Europe in the Middle Ages, and in some Middle East countries today, the weapon of blasphemy has been used to silence the opposition. Whosoever did or said anything that was unpalatable to the Sangh was promptly accused of blasphemy and declared anti-religion and an atheist. This won the Sangh the support of the masses. But this time, things did not go the Sanghs way. From within the Hindu religion which was the mainstay of Sanghs politics rose dissenting voices that proclaimed that they would not worship the goddess who massacred Tribals, Backwards and Dalits. The proponents of the Mahishashur movement in JNU were saying, You may have presented our heroes as villains in your scriptures but we will dig them out from non-brahmanical texts and re-anoint them. The Asur tribe of Jharkhand which, along with the Santhals, Bhils, Gonds, etc, has been declared a primitive tribe by the Government of India has been worshipping Mahishasur as its ancestor for thousands of years. There are innumerable totems associated with the Asur tradition in other Dalitbahujan castes. Celebrating Mahishasurs murder was improper. This country has been worshipping women for thousands of years primarily due to the influence of the Tribal and Bahujan traditions but Brahminism had distorted the tradition of worshipping women and portrayed them as violent and anti-women. The celebrations of Durga Puja in its present form began just 260 years ago, when after the Battle of Plassey in 1757, Nawab Krishnadev of Calcutta organized the first Durga Puja in honour of Lord Clive. Thus, this festival is not only very new but it is also anti-Muslim and pro-imperialism by implication. These young intellectuals thus gave an entirely new meaning to Durga Puja, a festival that was used by the Sangh to brand the original inhabitants of India as demons and villains. Similarly, beef and pork, which were used to engineer many a communal riot, were made a food-freedom issue by the Hindu and Muslim students of JNU. Their arguments regarding pork and beef festivals started reaching the wider society through the media. They told the middle-class Hindus and Muslims, who were unaware of the ground reality: Beef and pork had always been the staple food of the Hindu Dalits and were the biggest source of protein for the poorer sections of society. Beef and pork are widely consumed in most parts of the northeast. Since students from all over the country studied in JNU, food-related taboos put them under psychological pressure to hide their food preferences. The Sangh, this time around, chose sedition instead of blasphemy as the ammunition for its assault. It replaced God with the nation and declared sinful any attempt to question what the nation does or to argue about it. And punishing the sinner, of course, was the sacred duty of every citizen. The BJP, which had demanded that temples of Saraswati be established in all educational institutions, is now ruling the country. On 18 February, the Government of India, referring to seditious activities on the JNU campus, issued an order for the national flag to be hoisted on a 207-foot high pole in every university, beginning with JNU. Needless to say, if this goes ahead unopposed, it would be difficult to oppose the installation of an idol of Bharat Mata near the flag. In the post-Independence brahmanical myths, the tiger-riding Durga and the tiger-riding Bharat Mata are all but the same. These symbols have deep significance as far as cultural domination is concerned. We should not forget that cultural domination is the foundation of economic, social and political domination. Hoisting the national flag is a matter of pride for all Indians but the circumstances in which the government has issued this order and its motive deserve condemnation. BAHUJAN MOVEMENTS AT JNU If we closely study the recent string of incidents in JNU while keeping their background in mind, we will realize that the Bahujan-Left unity had set alarm bells ringing in the RSS camp. To grasp this better, we will have to revisit the first Mahishasur Martyrdom Day, organized by the All India Backward Students Forum (AIBSF) in JNU in October 2011 and the Food Freedom movement initiated by the New Materialists in September 2012. As evident from their names, the All India Backward Students Forum, which observed the Mahishasur Martyrdom Day, is officially an organization of OBC students and the New Materialists, which made food freedom an issue, is also related to the now-forgotten, philosophical Lokayat tradition of the Bahujans. The New Materialists was led by OBC and Dalit students who were advocates of scientific materialism. Some had begun referring to the Food Freedom movement as the Beef-Pork Festival. The Delhi High Court banned the holding of the event. The Rashtriya Gorakshini Sena took the organizers to court and activists of the VHP and other outfits of the Sangh Parivar called on the then vice-chancellor and demanded tough action against them. After this meeting, the VC suspended the leader of the New Materialists, an OBC, and issued show-cause notices to three others (See JNU bows before Hindutvavadis, FORWARD Press, October 2012) The organizers had planned to serve beef and pork, along with dishes from different states, to interested students in an open ground on the campus. A similar event was earlier held in the Osmania University in Hyderabad and both the groups of student organizers had the ideological backing of Prof Kancha Iliah, who is greatly respected by Bahujan students. The reactions of RSS and its auxiliary organizations to Mahishasur and Food Freedom movements, as published in different newspapers and magazines in 2011-12, indicate that initially, these organizations could not comprehend what exactly was happening. The movement for food freedom lost steam after the Delhi High Court order but the Mahishasur Day celebrations became an annual affair after 2011. It also spread to other parts of the country. In 2013, it was celebrated at around 100 places including cities, towns and university campuses. By 2015, this number had crossed the 350 mark. In May 2014, the BJP, the political wing of the RSS, formed its government at the Centre. The Sangh identified FORWARD Press as being responsible for giving momentum to Mahishasur Day celebrations and decided to target the magazine. In October 2015, some people associated with Hindutva organizations lodged a complaint against the magazine with the police. Reports published in various newspapers quoted police sources to say that the raid on the magazines office was conducted at the directive of the union home ministry. In this period, while The Hindu, Indian Express, Deccan Herald, Jansatta, etc presented all the related facts and gave due prominence to the explanation by FORWARD Press that it had nothing to do with the holding of the event in JNU, the RSS Panchjanya and Organizer and rightist newspapers such as The Pioneer and Dainik Jagran continued spreading disinformation about FORWARD Press. PANCHJANYA 2015 The real assault on Bahujan discourses followed. In its issue dated 8 November 2015, Panchjanya, the Hindi organ of the Sangh, carried a sensational and provocative cover story titled JNU: Darar ka gadh (JNU: Den of Divisiveness). That is not all. The weekly took pains to inform media organizations about the cover story and requested them to take notice. In the first week of November 2015, this cover story of Panchjanya grabbed the headlines on TV channels. The Panchjanya story revealed, for the first time, that the real target of the Sangh was the growing Left-Bahujan proximity in JNU. Later, in this article, we will examine the contents of the Panchjanya cover story and compare them with the intelligence report that was sent to the Home Ministry after the so-called seditious slogans were raised on the campus. This will make it clear that the Sangh and the police were speaking in the same language and that the sedition charge was a part of the Sanghs conspiracy. The Sangh wanted to use it as an excuse to crush Bahujan discourses. PANCHJANYA AND GOVERNMENT SPIES As we had hinted at the beginning of this article, the recent events in JNU were not triggered by the so-called anti-national slogans alone. Their real objective was to target Muslims and give a bad name to those Hindu Bahujans who are resisting the brahmanical culture. First, let us see what Panchjanya said in its cover story JNU: Darar Ka Gadh in the issue dated 8 November 2015: JNU is the only institution where talking of nationalism is a sin. It is called a bastion of the leftists. Distorting Indian culture and presenting it in conjunction with wrong facts is fairly common here. For instance, when the entire country worships Ma Durga, neo-leftist students and professors celebrate Mahishasur Day there. They demand that the army should be withdrawn from the terrorism-infested Kashmir Those who celebrate Mahishasur Day say that they are backward and deprived and representatives of forest dwellers and claim that Mahishasur was the hero-god of the backwards, the deprived and the forest-dwellers. Referring to the changing nature of JNU, Panchjanya says, Till some time ago, the leftists used a different set of policies and tools to break the nation and society. With time, their strategy has changed. They have changed their faces; they have changed the arena of their ideological battle. Now, they do not parrot the formulations of Lenin. Now they talk of secularism, human rights and rights of minorities, women and the deprived sections of society to implement their agenda. The lush crops grown on this poison can be seen everywhere in the university. The walls on JNU campus are full of slogans, pamphlets and posters. Most of these slogans and posters are aimed at fracturing Indian culture, civilization and society and the country itself. Panchjanya blames the discourses initiated by the FORWARD Press for the changes in the slogans, posters, etc and condemns the magazine under the subhead Forward Press ka vishwavidhyalaya connection. It says, They are using a new word, Bahujan, to describe deprived sections and forest dwellers togethera couple of years back, at a programme in JNU, Kancha Iliah, who was an assistant professor in Osmania University and Professors A.K. Ramakrishnan and S.N. Malakar of the University, in their speeches, spewed venom against the upper-caste Hindus. Besides Panchjanya and Organizer, the organs of the RSS, newspapers like The Pioneer and Dainik Jagran and rightist websites like Niti Central, Central Right India and India Facts are also quite upset with the concept of Bahujan. Among other things, this concept is being opposed because SC, ST and OBC are Constitutional terms for these classes. They say that the floating of the concept of Bahujan which includes all people of these classes as well as those Dwijs who are opposed to the caste system is a foreign conspiracy against the Hindus. The leftist stream of JNU is turning towards this concept of Bahujan. It was for this reason that Panchjanya, in its cover story, described JNU as an institution which is breaking the nation, where innocent Hindu youth are lured after being fed wrong facts about the Varna system, which is an integral part of Hindu society and where venom is spewed against the Savarnas and impliedly urged the Savarnas and its government to launch a campaign against the institution. It is not without reason that a portion of this story has been carried in the name of Ravindra Kumar Baseda, a former student of JNU. Baseda was one of the people who had lodged the complaint with the police against the observance of Mahishasur Day in JNU in 2014. In the complaint, it was stated that the observance of this day would exacerbate tensions between the Brahmins and the OBCs. A box accompanying the story, which had an aggressive layout, titled JNU Leela, listed the nefarious activities on JNU campus. JNU LEELA >> The valiant soldiers who fought in the Kargil battle were humiliated in a mushaira in the university and India-bashing was supported. >> The killing of 72 jawans by the Naxals in Bastar in 2010 was celebrated. >> In the name of food freedom, a row was kicked up over serving beef. >> Slogans demanding freedom for J&K and northeastern states were openly raised >> The hanging of Afzal Guru was mourned and a protest march taken out. >> With the support of Forward Press, programmes were organized to insult Hindu gods and to execute the conspiracy of the missionaries to break society. As we shall see ahead, the charges levelled by Panchjanya in November 2015, surprisingly, became part of an intelligence report filed in February 2016. The Panchjanya article and the report of the intelligence department have uncanny similarities. Their tone is the same, basic content is the same, charges are the same and both smack of a conspiracy to associate students organizations of Bahujan ideology with extremist leftist organizations. The only difference is that of language. While the language of Panchjanya has a literary touch, that of the intelligence report is dry government-speak. DELHI POLICE SITUATION REPORT On 9 February 2016, after the so-called seditious sloganeering in JNU, the Delhi Police, on the basis of the report of its intelligence wing, submitted a report to the Government of India. This report was leaked to the media by sources in the Home Ministry on the basis of which, Firstpost, The Hindu, The Indian Express, The Times of India, The Telegraph and other newspapers and TV channels ran stories on the celebration of Mahishasur Day in JNU during Navratri and on the demand to serve beef in JNU mess. Barring BJP-supporter Zee News and few other channels and newspapers, most of the media outlets took a dig at the government for treating these events as seditious. But even they were unaware of the facts and could not grasp the issue in its entirety. Let us see what this four-page report of the intelligence wing of the Delhi police titled Situation report regarding the incident at Jawahar Lal Nehru University on 09.02.16 says. The first two pages of the report are devoted to the incident of 9 February. The two remaining pages are about the earlier incidents in JNU, including celebrations of Mahishasur Day during Navratri in 2014 and the demand that beef be served in the hostel mess. The question that arises is: Why did the police report talk in detail about the older incidents, which had nothing whatsoever to do with the so-called seditious sloganeering? And why was this report made available to media in haste? And how is it that two days before the release of the report to the media, on 15 February, newspapers carried a statement of BJP MP Yogi Adityanath in which he branded observance of Mahishasur Day and holding beef party as acts of sedition and demanded that JNU be shut down. See the first two pages of the report, which talks about the sedition. The report, which was sent to the Union Home Ministry, says: It is important to mention here that Y&S section of Special Branch always keeps an eye on the activities of students, student organizations, youths and people who have a stake at JNU. The report says, [a]round 5 pm, DSU students led by their president Umar Khalid, convenor, DSU began to gather near Sabarmati Dhaba. Around 80/100 DSU and Left students were present at the venue. It also claims that The Left-supported student groups were shouting Bharat ki Barbadi tak jang rahegi jang rahegi, Kashmir ki Ajadi tak Jang Rahegi, Jung rahegi, India Go Back Pakistan Zindabad, Kitne Afzal maroge, ghar ghar se Afzal niklega. In the meantime 30/40 activists from ABVP reached there under the leadership of Sh. Sourav Kumar Sharma, Joint Secretary, JNUSU. They were shouting slogans against DSU and shouting Bharat Mata Ki Jai. Note that while the references to leaders of other organizations dont have the respectful Shri, it has been used with the name of Saurabh Kumar Sharma, president of the RSS student wing ABVP. The report adds, At 7:30pm the activists of DSU & ABVP started their march from Sabarmati Dhaba to Ganga Dhaba. They raised slogans against each other. At 8:30 PM the activists of DSU & ABVP dispersed from there peacefully. Demonstrations and sloganeering demanding the right to self-determination for the people of Kashmir are common on JNU campus and after such events, the students invariably disperse peacefully. Then, why did the sleuths take this particular event so seriously? The report says, At present, ABVP [is] alleging that the activists of DSU and other left supporting student organizations are indulged in anti-national activities. They want action against such students who are into such anti national activities. This is broadly the content of the first two pages of the report. SANGHS FINGERPRINTS ON POLICE REPORT The next two pages have been appended to the report without any apparent reason. It says, On 06.10.2015, ACP, Y&S/SB visited JNU and had a meeting with the then VC of JNU . During this meeting discussions were held on various subjects including CCTV surveillance in JNU campus to avoid any untoward incident. It was discussed that often some student groups raise slogans and participate in protests inside JNU campus. Many a time such slogans/protests have anti-national colour. It is reflected through objectionable posters which are prepared mostly through computers and affixed at hostel/JNU campus. Sometimes such posters are found to be hurting patriotic/religious feelings of the society. It was also discussed that the objectionable/anti-national activities of members of Democratic Students Union (DSU) have to be curbed by JNU authorities with the help of police. What is significant is that an ACP of the Special Branch met the JNU vice-chancellor on 6 October 2015. The Mahishasur Martyrdom Day is observed on Sharad Purnima, which fell on 26 October last year. It is clear that the proposal to install CCTV cameras on the university premises was made in view of this event. Note how patriotic/religious feelings and objectionable/anti-national have been used as synonyms. Even if we do not dwell on whether the sentiments of only the protectors of brahmanical culture are hurt or whether anything which they dislike becomes objectionable, the question that remains is whether observance of Mahishasur Day by the deprived sections is sedition. It is noteworthy that later, on 24, 25 and 26 February, in the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha respectively, the government attacked the Mahishasur movement and linked it to seditious activities on the basis of the fabricated charges in this report. The report shrewdly attributes the event to DSU, even when it is well known that All India Backward Students Forum, the Phule-Ambedkarite organization of Bahujan students, was the organizer of this event. Furthermore, it says: There are so many Left-supported student unions active in JNU. Most of them are non-reactive and mild in nature. They often raise slogans/protest on different national as well as local issues but their gathering remains very low. But two hidden students groups i.e. 1) DSU and 2) DSF have been found volatile and reactive. However, they are less than 10 in number. Sometimes they prepare nude and objectionable posters of deities on their computer and affix it on wall to hurt the religious feelings of the society. Their activities in the past are: 1) They mourned the death of Afzal Guru. 2) They celebrated killing of CRPF Jawans in Dantewara, Chattisgardh in 2010. 3) They worshipped Mahisasur [sic] in place of Goddess Durga during September 14 Navrata festival last year. 4) They invited Kashmiri separatist leader Gilani for meeting. But JNU authority imposed ban on their such moves. 5) They asked for beef in hostel mess. Isnt this list of charges in the police report a rough translation of the JNU Leela published in Panchjanya. The report also says that these groups put up pictures of gods and goddesses in the nude on walls. No such thing has ever happened in JNU. The posters put up by the All India Backward Students Forum in 2011 were a reproduction of an article written by Prem Kumar Mani titled Who are Bahujans really worshipping?, published in FORWARD Press. It only mentioned that Mahishasur came from the Bahujan community. It did not make any objectionable comment about any god or goddess. The police report, as part of a well-planned conspiracy, says, They worshipped Mahisasur in place of Goddess Durga during September 14 Navrata festival last year. The fact is that Mahishasur Day is celebrated in JNU and all over the country on Sharad Purnima, five days after Dussehra, whereas Navratri is celebrated before Dussehra. In 2014, Mahishasur Day was celebrated on 9 October and Navratri from 25 September to 3 October. The Mahishasur Day celebrations in JNU in 2014 were much talked about due to the registration of a case against FORWARD Press. Almost all newspapers and channels had carried news about it. The police record also mentions the date of celebrations, 9 October. Then, would it be wrong to presume that the lie of Mahishasur Day celebrations during Navratri was peddled only to incite people? Similarly, the claim that a students organization had demanded that beef should be served in hostel mess is a white lie. The New Materialists had planned to hold Beef-Pork Festival for a couple of hours on an open ground and not in the mess. Here too, very shrewdly, pork has been dropped from beef-pork so that the event can be given a religious colour. Instead of upholding the Constitutional secularism, the police report seeks to fan Hindu communalism by linking these two events with DSU and DSF. DSU is associated with the CPI (Maoist), which has been banned by the Government of India. The police and government are trying to link Bahujan youths with organizations that are on the radar of security agencies even when they are ideologically disparate, so that they lose popular support and can be subjected to police atrocities. Anyway, these are not the final truths vis-a-vis a nexus of government, police and a section of the media trying to prove that JNU is a centre of sedition. But one thing is certain. The reverberations of the tumult in the dominant classes due to the entry of Bahujan youths in the portals of institutions of higher learning will continue to be felt in the years to come. Truth, equality and justice will ultimately win no matter how long it takes. SPECIAL RESERVATION SYSTEM >> Points are awarded to students writing the entrance exam in JNU if they hail from scheduled backward districts. For this purpose, a list of districts identified by the JNU on the basis of Census 2011 has been given in the prospectus. The districts are divided into two categories. The students who are residents of the districts in category 1and 2 are given 5 and 3 points respectively. Candidates who have passed their qualifying examination through a distance education programme are also awarded 5 or 3 points, as the case may be. >> Kashmiri migrants are awarded 5 points if they present any documentary evidence or a certificate issued by the competent authority to prove their status. >> Candidates from the following defence categories are eligible for 5 special points: 1. Widows/wards of defence personnel killed in action; 2. Wards of serving personnel and ex-servicemen disabled in action; 3. Widows/wards of defence personnel who died in peacetime with death attributable to military service; and 4. Wards of defence personnel disabled in peacetime with disability attributable to military service. 5. All female candidates are awarded 5 special points. (No candidate is given more than 10 special points.) Note: These points are given in addition to the reservations granted to SC, ST, OBC and physically challenged students by the government. For example, if an OBC student comes from a scheduled district, besides benefiting from the 27 per cent reservation, he will also get five additional points, which will not be given to an OBC student hailing from a city. Pramod Ranjan is consulting editor, Forward Press SHARE Thomas Ruder Stifel Financial Corp. (announced that Thomas A. Ruder qualified for the firm's 2015 Chairman's Council. Ruder is a Senior Vice President/Investments in the Evansville Private Client Group office of the firm's broker-dealer subsidiary, Stifel, Nicolaus & Company Inc. The Chairman's Council consists of 128 of Stifel's top-producing financial adviors. Stifel currently employs approximately 2,300 financial advisors nationwide. Ruder joined Stifel in 2015 with the opening of the firm's Evansville office. He has more than 40 years of investment industry experience. "It is an honor to receive the recognition of Chairman's Council," said Ruder. "Stifel's philosophy on investing is grounded on a 125-year-old tradition of trust, understanding, and solid, studied advice, and that's exactly what I seek to provide my clients as I help them pursue their important financial goals." SHARE This story is a circle. It starts in Montgomery, Alabama, during the Civil War, curves its way through Evansville, and finally finds a path home to Alabama. A family tree might be helpful here, but in the absence of a visual, keep your eye on the center of the circle, Evansville native Faye Wilson. Hers is a story as solid and rounded as the thin copper bracelet that she wore during the Vietnam War, imprinted with the name of Capt. Samuel Deichelmann. Faye's great grandfather was an Alabamian who wore, according to the Montgomery newspaper, the first gray uniform of the Civil War. He sired a Southern family that included Faye's mother, Helen Allred Ogg. Faye admits that, unlike the rest of her family, her allegiance might still lean a bit southward. She uses a conspicuous first-person pronoun when noting that the Civil War marks "the only time in American history that we were defeated on our own soil." Faye's mother left Montgomery to live in Evansville, Indiana, the hometown of Faye's father, who fought in World War II. And even taking into account the service of her great grandfather and father, she can't put her finger on the primary reason for her unexplainable patriotic fervor a feeling she's had most of her life. When the MIA bracelets and the Vietnam War lost favor with many people in the '60s, Faye Wilson still felt compelled to wear the band with Deichelmann's name to honor the serviceman who was Missing in Action. She says she felt connected to the soldiers in Vietnam, who "needed support." Then last month, when the remains of Pfc. Kenneth Leroy Cunningham of Ellery, Illinois missing since 1969 were returned to the Tri-State for burial, Faye Wilson was moved to find the copper bracelet and return it to the family of Samuel Deichelmann. What she found closed a circle for her in many ways. First of all, she was surprised to find that Deichelmann was from her mother's hometown of Montgomery, Alabama, a town she remembers fondly. She learned that both Samuel and his brother Stephen were pilots shot down in Vietnam. Their mother, Louise, is buried in Arlington National Cemetery with their father, a major general in the Air Force. Faye Wilson also learned that Louise Deichelmann, so moved by the tragedy of her sons, as well as by the care she later received from nurses trained at Auburn University, set up a foundation, scholarship, and memorial at Auburn in both sons' names. This memorial will house Samuel's bracelet. "I thought you might be interested in this," Ms. Wilson tells me on a warm February afternoon as we share chai and conversation, having found a connection through a mutual friend. And, of course I am interested more than interested because Faye Wilson is delightful; because she spent a small part of her childhood in the city where I spent mine; because Auburn is my alma mater; and because Evansville, her hometown, is my adopted home. But I am most intrigued because her lifelong circle of patriotism remains unbroken. She continues to host a celebration every Fourth of July to honor America and those who have fought for their principles through the ages. And each year at her home, before guests can eat or enter the pool, they must stand with Faye Wilson and her friend Sharon Dennis and say a little prayer. "And then we all say together the Pledge of Allegiance," she explains, adding that her guests are beginning to anticipate her summer ritual. "In fact, they like it," she says. And this fall, though some aspects of Samuel Deichelmann's MIA story remain a mystery, Faye will return to Alabama, where she spent months of her childhood, for a dedication ceremony honoring Deichelmann at Auburn University, and the story of the bracelet will find closure. Julia Gregg is a writer, teacher and consultant. Readers may contact her at Julia.Gregg1950@gmail.com. SHARE NAMI Evansville Family-to-Family classes on mental illness: 12-week session on Mondays, beginning March 7 from 6:45-9 p.m. at Old North United Methodist Church, 4201 Stringtown Road. Classes are free, but registration is required. To enroll or for more information, call 812-423-4333. SongShine Evansville: will present a music-based voice therapy program that helps strengthen the speaking voices of those who suffer from Parkinson's, stroke and other neurological disorders or simply aging. Starting March 8, the classes will meet on Tuesdays from 1:30-2:30 p.m. through May 17 at Aldersgate United Methodist Church, 5130 Lincoln Ave. The classes use classical singing exercises, relaxation, physical awareness and breath, diction and articulation, creative imagination, emotional engagement, rhythmic movement and group singing to enhance speech. Registration is at 1 p.m. the first week. Classes are free, but a $10 registration fee is required. A kit containing a textbook, CDs, a bookstand and a bag is $45. Call 812-457-5137 or register online at SongShineforParkinsons.org. Classes are taught by Certified SongShine instructors. Scholarships are available if needed. Alzheimer's Association Memory Cafe: for people with memory loss and their loved ones, 2-3:30 p.m. March 9 at Dream Car Museum, 2400 N. Heidelbach Ave. (for a guided tour). Registration required by calling 800-272-3900. Bereavement support group: Meeting 5:30-7 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month in the large group meeting room, second floor of Central Library, 200 SE MLK Blvd. Men's bereavement support group: Meeting 9-10:30 a.m. the second Monday of each month in Room 204 at Deaconess VNA Plus, 610 E. Walnut St. Support group for bipolar/manic-depressive disorder: Meeting 7 p.m. the first and third Wednesday of each month, Kempf Bipolar Wellness Center, third floor of St. Mary's Rehabilitation Institute, 3700 Washington Ave. Information: 812-485-4934. Survivors of Suicide support group: Meeting 6:30 p.m. the first and third Monday of each month, Methodist Temple, 2109 Lincoln Ave. Information: Mental Health America at 812-426-2640. Mending Hearts pregnancy loss support group: Meeting 6:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month, Gift Conference Room, off the lobby of St. Mary's Hospital for Women & Children, 3700 Washington Ave. Information: 812-485-4204. Men's cancer support group: Meeting 5:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month, St. Mary's Epworth Crossing Community Conference Room, 100 St. Mary's Epworth Crossing, Newburgh. Information: 812-485-5725. Stroke support group: Meeting 10 a.m. the fourth Wednesday of each month, St. Mary's Community Education Room at Washington Square Mall, 5011 Washington Ave. Information: 812-485-5607. ALS support group: Meeting 6:30 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month, Meeting Room E, Deaconess Gateway Hospital. The support group is for patients, caregivers and survivors who have lost someone to Lou Gehrig's disease. Women's cancer support group: Meeting 5:30 p.m. the second and fourth Monday of each month, St. Mary's Epworth Crossing Community Conference Room. Information: 812-485-5725. Pulmonary fibrosis support group: Meeting 3 p.m. the second Tuesday of each month, Room 1420, Deaconess Hospital, 600 Mary St. Information: 812-450-6000 or deaconess.com/calendar. COPD/asthma support group: Meeting 3 p.m. the fourth Tuesday of each month, Room 1420, Deaconess Hospital, 600 Mary St. Information: 812-450-6000 or deaconess.com/calendar. Parkinson's support group: Meeting at 5:30 p.m. the first Tuesday of each month, Room 350, Deaconess Physician Center, 600 Mary St. Information: 812-450-6000 or deaconess.com/calendar. Tri-State Multiple Sclerosis Association support group meetings: 10 a.m. the second Saturday of each month, Tri-State MS Association Office, 971 S. Kenmore Drive, Evansville (contact Nita Ruxer at 812-479-3544 or Sharon Omer at 270-333-4701); 10 a.m. the fourth Saturday of each month, Gibson General Hospital, fifth floor, first room on the right, 1808 Sherman Drive, Princeton, Indiana (contact Alice Burkhart at 812-782-3735); 11 a.m. the second Tuesday of each month, Twilight Towers, in the cafeteria, 1648 10th St., Tell City (contact Terri Hasty at 812-649-4013 or Gayle Taylor 812-719-2417); 10 a.m. the third Saturday of each month, Daviess Community Hospital, Washington, Indiana (contact Cindy Kalberer at 812-254-6735 or Fran Neal at 812-259-1565); 10 a.m. the first Saturday of each month, Calvary Missionary Baptist Church, 2360 Green River Road, Henderson, Kentucky, (contact Meg Burnley at 270-826-9507 or Debbie Whittington at 270-827-8298); 6 p.m. the second Monday of each month, Owensboro Health Healthpark, 1006 Ford Ave, Owensboro, Kentucky; and 11 a.m. the first Saturday of each month, Fairfield Memorial Hospital in the board room of Horizon Clinic, 303 NW 11th St., Fairfield, Illinois (contact Kathie Hill at 618-847-8452). Compiled by Leah Ward, leah.ward@courierpress.com By Zach Evans of the Courier and Press The City Council's denial of a water service fee proved symbolic water utility officials said the water fee was approved by a state board and the City Council has no control over the fee. The council last Monday voted down a request to add a $50 fee to turn on and shut off water service in nonemergency situations to municipal code because of potential impact to low-income residents. It wasn't clear Monday whether the City Council's decision to exclude the fee from city code would affect whether the utility could still charge the fee. Allen Mounts, director of the Evansville Water and Sewer Utility, said Thursday the fee stands. "The fees are governed by the (Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission) not the City Council," Mounts said. The utility requested the fee and other fees be updated with city code just as a matter of record, he said. All the City Council did was vote to not have the fee included in a list of fees in city code. "It doesn't approve or disapprove what the IURC has already done because they have jurisdiction over that," he said. The utility found that several other Indiana cities, including Fort Wayne and Indianapolis, charged a similar fee to turn on and shut off water service at the customer's request. Previously, the city did not charge for the service. Mounts said the utility submitted a cost study to the state board, who then approved the fee hike in December 2015. "From a legal perspective, now that the IURC has approved that we have to implement because it becomes part of your revenue assumptions," he said. Unlike the sewer utility, the City Council has no control over the city's water utility rates, which are instead overseen by the Indiana Utility Regulatory Commission. Licensed Plumbers have permission to shut off or turn on water, but Mounts said a plumber would likely charge more than the city does for the service. Mounts said the most common request for the service is for home inspectors and realtors. The fee doesn't apply for emergency water situations, he said. Several on the City Council, including Connie Robinson, D-4th Ward, and Missy Mosby, D-2nd Ward, took issue with the fee, calling it a burden on low-income residents. Mounts called the fee "reasonable" and said "there's nothing unusual about it." SHARE By Zach Osowski, zach.osowski@courierpress.com INDIANAPOLIS After incorporating the extra money for a third Regional Cities program into the Senate's road funding plan, the Indiana House Ways and Means Committee killed Senate Bill 302 by not hearing it. On the House side, the extra $42 million for a third regional project is now tied to Senate Bill 333, which has already been amended to look identical to the House's original road plan, HB 1001, complete with tax hikes on the fuel tax and cigarette tax. After SB 333 was amended, and an additional $20 million was tossed in for a state pension fund, SB 302, the original Regional Cities bill, was not called. The money for both programs would come out of the state's tax amnesty program. The Regional Cities language is also included in House Bill 1161, which now deals with the same pension program as SB 333. The Senate decided to add the extra funding last week when it became clear SB 302 could be in trouble on the House side. The decision to amend came after the Republican members of the committee caucused after passing two less controversial bills. After a brief recess, the amendment was offered and accepted by the committee. The money for the pension paychecks for public employees was added to make the bill more palatable for the Democrats. "This is like House Bill 1001 with sprinkles," Rep. Greg Porter, D-Indianapolis, said before voting no. Both the amendment and the bill were voted out of committee 13-8. The addition to the road bill now means the Senate and House will have a lot of work to do in conference committee working out all the details for a road funding plan. In addition to the House making SB 333 identical to HB 1001's original language, the Senate last week amended HB 1001 to look more like SB 333 as originally written. Over the next couple weeks, a conference committee will try to agree on which bill is better, or it could take bits and pieces from the two bills. The addition of the Regional Cities funding adds another piece to the puzzle. If the House dissents to the changes in HB 1161, that too will be sent to a conference committee. By merging Regional Cities and road funding, it could be harder to kill the tax increases while keeping the extra funding alive. SHARE By Zach Osowski INDIANAPOLIS The fate of the Regional Cities bill could be decided today when the House Ways and Means Committee is expected to vote and possibly amend Senate Bill 302. House Speaker Brian Bosma was noncommittal on what might happen with the bill Thursday. "We'll see what happens Monday," he said when asked about the possibility of amendments or the bill getting inserted into another bill. Bosma reiterated that some members of the committee were not happy the Indiana Economic Development Corp. and Gov. Mike Pence decided to award $126 million when the legislature had only signed off on $84 million last year. "We told our caucus we'd put in statute the amount to be spent, $84 million, and when that was increased by the administration unilaterally, we've got some folks that don't think it's a great idea," Bosma said. "Back when they voted for it, there was an opportunity for everyone to share in the funds, now they've selected the places." Across the hall, the Senate is working to make sure the language stays alive no matter what happens in Ways and Means. Last week, senators added an amendment to House Bill 1161 that would disperse the additional $42 million to a third region. HB 1161 deals with pensions but the money is tied to the state's General Fund, making the Regional Cities funding germane. That bill was unanimously passed out of the Senate Appropriations Committee on Thursday. Senate Leader David Long, R-Fort Wayne, said he and the rest of his caucus strongly support funding the third region. Long's district is part of one of the three winning regions. The Evansville area and South Bend area are the other two. Long pointed out the tax amnesty program set up to fund the project brought in well more than expected. "There's more than enough for three regions," Long said. "This is an idea whose time has come. It's a good idea, it brings collaboration. I think it should move forward." If SB 302 gets out of committee and the full House without being amended, the bill would go to the governor. If the committee votes it down, the fate of the extra funding may rest with a conference committee on HB 1161. Sussex News Story Saved You can find this story in My Bookmarks. Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right. Piers Pigou Senior Consultant, Southern Africa South Africa https://twitter.com/PiersPigou What triggered this explosion of unrest? On 12 January, in response to persistent fuel shortages compounded by manipulation and mismanagement of a currency crisis, President Emmerson Mnangagwa announced a fuel price hike of over 200 per cent to $3.31 per litre making the countrys petrol price the highest in the world. It is unclear how this move would address the shortages, outside of pricing fuel out of the reach of many; already, the knock-on effects of transport and commodity price increases are adding evident stress to ordinary Zimbabweans lives. The massive rise sparked a general strike, along with widespread protests, which in many areas was characterised by violence and considerable destruction of property. Those behind the strike did not call for demonstrations, but thousands, especially young people, took to the streets, with many looting shops and burning cars or buildings. Protests were concentrated in and around the main opposition strongholds, the capital Harare and Bulawayo, but also appeared in cities elsewhere across the country. In turn the government ordered a vicious clampdown deploying soldiers as well as police. At the end of the second day of protests on 15 January, Zimbabwes Doctors for Human Rights released a statement saying hundreds shot, tens estimated dead in rampant rights violations across Zimbabwe. Their assessment included reports of 107 patients treated for gunshot and blunt trauma wounds. For days after that, it was hard to obtain updated casualty figures. The government blocked internet services, both at the outset of the unrest and again on 18 January, severely disrupting the flow of information and contributing to widespread confusion. The scale of violence is the worst the country has witnessed in some time. On 18 January, the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum was able to publish consolidated statistics counting 844 human rights violations during the general strike. These numbers include: at least twelve killings; at least 78 gunshot injuries; at least 242 cases of assault, torture or inhumane and degrading treatment, including dog bites; 466 arbitrary arrests and detentions; and many displacements (with the number being verified). Other violations are invasion of privacy, obstruction of movement, and limitation of media freedoms and access to information. Protesters have also engaged in intimidation, violence, vandalism and looting. The government confirmed that they stoned one police officer to death; there are several unconfirmed reports of fatalities and injuries among the security forces. The extent of the property damage has yet to be determined, though human rights groups have documented at least 46 instances. The countrys main cities are at a standstill. The government and media have accused the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC), trade unions and civil society groups backed by foreign funders (the U.S. and Germany were named) of orchestrating the protests as part of a campaign to undermine the government and elevate the MDCs leader, Nelson Chamisa, into office. Such accusations are par for the course when the government faces protests; based on past experience, it seems unlikely it will supply compelling evidence to support these claims. Did the unrest come out of the blue? Anger at the government has been building for some time. On my last visit to the capital Harare in December 2018, the countrys economic woes were plain to see. Prices in shops were soaring, retailers were closing down and queues for petrol were lengthening as the country struggled to juggle payments for competing import priorities. Control over the countrys fuel supply is in the hands of the ruling Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), and the huge financial benefits that come with it are reportedly causing factional rivalry. There is widespread public speculation that the shortages are caused by inter-elite squabbles or even deliberately engineered. People in Harare complain that the administration is akin to a new driver in an old taxi. The price hike thus ignited the already dry tinder on the ground. On 13 January, one day after the announcement, civil society groups backed a call by the Zimbabwe Congress of Trade Unions for a three-day stayaway, or general strike. Underlying the skyrocketing prices of fuel, food and other goods is a currency crisis that has been worsening through much of 2018. In 2009, facing similar hyper-inflation, the government abandoned the national currency, and switched the economy over completely to the U.S. dollar. After an election in 2013 in which it ran on a platform of job creation and economic recovery, the ZANU-PF government demonstrated astonishing levels of financial delinquency. It financed its own systematic over-expenditure with massive borrowing. Domestic debt, which stood at just $442 million in 2013, surged to $10.5 billion by February 2018 and has climbed further over the last year. In 2016, as more and more dollars drained out of the economy, the government introduced a new bond note currency, nominally at parity with the dollar, in an attempt to make up for cash shortages, as well as direct electronic payments into bank accounts for goods and services. These payments included the salaries of civil servants, the last bastion of formal employment. It was the equivalent of printing money over and above the value of the reserves in the central bank. The government continues to claim parity between the bond note, electronic balances and the dollar. With most financial transactions being cashless, this mythology of official parity was maintained, although the bond notes and electronic reserves were trading at a lower rate. But both the latter quasi-currencies have rapidly depreciated since the government introduced fiscal and monetary reforms in October, leading prices for goods and services to spike across the board. The runaway inflation in turn has prompted panic buying and widespread shortages of critical goods such as medicines. It has cut the value of ordinary citizens earnings and savings by more than half, further impoverishing an already struggling populace. In the weeks following the fiscal reforms, as purchasing power evaporated, the entire public-sector work force began organising to confront the government. Since early December, Zimbabwean doctors have been at loggerheads with the government, crippling central parts of an already degraded health care system. On 8 January, the Apex Council, an umbrella body representing civil servants, issued the government the statutory two-week notice that it would call a general strike to protest the governments refusal to pay civil servants in hard currency, namely U.S. dollars. Is there precedent for this level of violence accompanying protests in Zimbabwe? The scale of violence is the worst the country has witnessed in some time. Before 1 August 2018, when the military shot dead six civilians in Harare, Zimbabwes security forces did not use live ammunition in crowd control. Now they seem to rely on it. In another escalation, the government has deployed the military to suppress protests and make arrests, highlighting the ineffectiveness of the police or, as some believe, that the government does not trust the police to crack down on protests with sufficient fervour. The response also reflects an embedded military influence in government decision making and could usher in a new phase of repression in Zimbabwe. Nor has the country seen a comparable level of violence, looting and destruction by ordinary Zimbabweans. Some of it is undoubtedly orchestrated, but most appears to be spontaneous. More than ever, young people are willing to confront the government in the streets, reflecting desperation and their deep-seated frustration. Anecdotes are surfacing of huge sections of road being shut down and railway carriages being dragged off the rails and into the streets, signaling new levels of revolt. Such actions suggest a growing number of Zimbabweans are less risk averse in terms of a confrontational approach, adding a highly dangerous new element into the mix. Just fifteen months ago, a coup forced strongman Robert Mugabe from office. Wasnt Zimbabwe full of hope then? The optimism that accompanied the ouster of long-time President Robert Mugabe in November 2017 has evaporated. For a time, many Zimbabweans thought his replacement, Mnangagwa, might be a reformer, though he had long been a ruling-party stalwart who was Mugabes vice president. The international community, including a number of critics, were prepared to give him the benefit of the doubt. Now, however, cynicism is growing in many quarters, albeit for diverse reasons. There are signs of discontent even among ZANU-PF loyalists and members of the security forces, who are also bearing the brunt of economic decay. Controversy blighted Zimbabwes much anticipated elections on 30 July 2018, even though the courts endorsed the outcome. Many believe that the use of state resources in Mnangagwas favour pushed him over the finish line in the presidential contest. Unprecedented spending by the government ahead of the elections contradicted promises of financial prudence. The MDC refuses to recognise Mnangagwas government as legitimate, while the government accuses the opposition of being unpatriotic and promoting a nefarious regime change agenda. The country is polarised, attitudes on both sides have hardened and prospects for bridge-building have withered. Since the elections, the new government has managed to deliver few tangible results. People in Harare complain that the administration is akin to a new driver in an old taxi. Many see the government simply as a reconfiguration of the ZANU-PF, now freed from Mugabe but dominated by security-sector interests and factions aligned to the new president. Questions are also surfacing over President Mnangagwas judgment. He left the country immediately after announcing the fuel price hike, ostensibly to search for trade deals in Russia, Belarus, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan. But such deals are unlikely to resolve the immediate economic issues facing Zimbabwe: while he may drum up some foreign investment in the country, those governments will not provide much needed budgetary support. Nobody believes that Mnangagwa will enjoy anything like the enthusiastic reception he got last year if he goes, as planned, to this years World Economic Forum in Davos. Already in December, one of Zimbabwes leading political scientists was telling me that the light at the end of the tunnel has gone out. He meant that Mnangagwas government, while consolidating its authority politically, would be unable to deliver a sustainable, broad-based economic recovery. [F]urther unrest in the coming days, weeks or months is a question of when, rather than if. What could happen next? For almost two decades, observers of Zimbabwe have warned of pending economic collapse, mass hunger and social implosion. Conditions steadily worsened, but Zimbabweans employed an impressive array of survival strategies, from emigration producing diaspora remittances to work in the informal sector, where making a plan, as per a common expression, has become something of an art form. The apparent stability has fed complacency, a sense that Zimbabwe can keep on bumping along the bottom. But evidence on the streets now suggests that may no longer be true. The security clampdown is continuing. Notwithstanding its chilling effect on some potential protesters, further unrest in the coming days, weeks or months is a question of when, rather than if. Another initiative for a general strike is already in motion; calls for a Stayaway 2 on 23-25 January are circulating on social media. Key questions are how organised it will be, given the likelihood that many organisers of the initial street actions are detained, and how the state will respond. Already, there is a de facto nationwide shutdown as towns and city centres remain empty. People cannot move freely because transport is too expensive. Many cannot afford to go to work. Zimbabwe desperately needs reform if the government is to keep the country reasonably stable and preserve its re-engagement with international donors At the same time, the information gap makes it difficult to judge what is happening. Amid endemic misinformation and fake news, some exaggeration of the countrys disarray is likely in play. But in any case, it is unlikely that the mood of confrontation will dissipate quickly. The government may be able to put a lid on unrest and take activists off the streets, but that will not address the conditions that have brought people out. More confrontational protests seem inevitable even if the crackdown curbs protests for now. Samsung and Apple are on very different release schedules for their flagships, roughly six months apart. The S6 came out last April, and the Samsung Galaxy S7 is due to follow this March. By contrast, the last iPhone came out in September, and we're probably not seeing the iPhone 7 for a good seven months or so. That means that each has regular opportunities to one-up the other, but has Samsung taken the golden chance with the Galaxy S7? Let's find out. (Given the Samsung Galaxy S7 won't be launched until March, our experiences here are based on specifications and limited time with the handset at MWC. We'll update the piece when we've had more time with it.) Display The Galaxy S7 is a clear winner here, and this should come as no surprise to anybody. When we put the Galaxy S6 head to head with the iPhone 6s, the Galaxy S6 won, and it would be very unlikely for Samsung to take a step backwards with their screen technology - not to the degree that would be required for an iPhone win, in any case. Let's look at the numbers: the iPhone 6s packs a 4.7in IPC LCD display with a resolution of 750 x 1,334. That's a pixel density of 326ppi. The Galaxy S7 on the other hand, has a 5.1in Super AMOLED display with a resolution of 1,440 x 2,560, meaning a pixel density of 576ppi. If those numbers sound extremely familiar, they should. Those are the same specifications as the Galaxy S6, and Jon speculated in our hands on review that the screen is probably from the very same production line. That shouldn't be a problem, given the S6's screen was amongst the very best in the business - and it still is. Winner: Samsung Galaxy S7 Features Last time out we called this one for Apple based on two things: Apple Pay and 3D Touch. Well, you can scratch one of those right off the bat: Samsung Pay has been out in the USA since last year, and it's finally coming to Australia this year - indeed, our colleagues at Expert Reviews explain that because Samsung Pay supports Magnetic Secure Transmission, it might just be more compatible than Apple Pay, thanks to its wider compatibility with contactless infrastructure, which is a big plus. Better still is the news that Samsung has listened to tech journalists (maybe) and consumers (definitely) and brought back a couple of features of flagships past, namely water resistance and expandable memory. The water resistance is something that's definitely nice to have, if not exactly a dealbreaker, unless you're hugely clumsy. The expandable memory is quite a big deal - especially given the way that handset costs skyrocket the more storage built in. The Galaxy S7 will support up to 200gb microSD cards, and given Android M has the option of treating microSDs as internal memory, that's a huge advantage. Pre-orders will also get a free Gear VR headset for a taste of virtual reality - something I was very impressed by when I reviewed it with the Galaxy S6. Are any of these better than 3D Touch? Possibly not, but in terms of sheer quantity of improvements on a battle that was pretty close last time around, you have to call it for Samsung. That's the advantage you get by going second! Winner: Samsung Galaxy S7 Specifications This is another point where things get muddy, thanks to Apple not providing specifications where we can neatly compare like for like. The iPhone 6s has a dual-core A9 processor, which is said to perform twice as fast as that used in its predecessor. All we can say is that this isn't hyperbole from Apple: our gaming tests show the 6S as blowing other phones away, achieving a speed of 59.1fps for T-Rex onscreen and 56.3fps for Manhattan onscreen - by contrast, the Galaxy S7's predecessor managed 37fps and 15fps respectively - though it does have considerably more pixels to push. It's too early to say whether the S7 will massively outperform the previous model in these benchmarks, but it's a decent upgrade in specs from the S6. The processor is said to be an Octa-core Samsung Exynos 8890 processor, which Samsung says will offer a CPU boost of 30 per cent, and a GPU boost of 64 per cent. We'll have to wait and see if those figures are correct, but even if they are, it looks like it won't be massively more powerful than the iPhone 6s, so this is a draw. For now. Winner: Draw Early verdict It's complicated. I did just call two wins out of three for Samsung, but there are a few things to remember. First of all, as with so much in the world of tech, personal preference plays a huge role. If you're not a fan of Android, then the Samsung Galaxy S7 may not grab you, no matter how powerful and feature packed it is. Secondly there's a lot we don't know about the Samsung Galaxy S7 of yet because we've only had limited playtime with it. Suffice it to say we'll be putting it thoroughly through its paces in an in-depth review as soon as we have one, but there's a reason elements have been left out here. The camera seems very good indeed (it would be a surprise if it wasn't, given Samsung's pedigree in that area), but we're going to leave it out until we can do some proper comparisons. Likewise battery life. So, yes, it's a win for Samsung, based on what we've seen. Given the Galaxy S6 was one of our favourites from last year, it would be a big surprise if the S7 is a flop when we give it our full attention soon, but keep an eye on Alphr for the full details ahead of its launch in March. Ensyst announced that it is transitioning Adelaide Festival Centres in-house platforms and applications into a hybrid cloud, leveraging Microsoft Azure and Office 365. Ensyst, which was acquired by Optus in December 2014 and delivers Microsoft-focused professional and managed services, will also provide ongoing IT service desk delivery support for the Microsoft cloud environment. Each year, the Adelaide Festival Centre hosts four international festivals and 1,813 events attracting more than 800,000 patrons. Hybrid cloud was the obvious choice, according to Adelaide Festival Centre chief operating officer Carlo DOrtenzio: We needed a platform capable of rapidly scaling up and down to meet demand and which was accessible from a range of devices. However, it also needed to remain compliant with government legislation. Ensysts agreement with Adelaide Festival Centre runs for three years. The value of the deal was not disclosed. The Adelaide Festival Centre is one of the first government agencies in South Australia to adopt Optus Business cloud services as its main IT sourcing option. "Partnering with Adelaide Festival Centre to enable its technology and business strategy is an opportunity to demonstrate to other government agencies what is possible by leveraging new technology platforms, like cloud," said Optus Business managing director John Paitaridis. Optus Business has signed three-year contracts with other two government agencies in the past year, the Department of Immigration & Border Security in November 2015 and ATO in April 2015. Ensyst received Microsoft Australias cloud excellence partner of the year award in 2014. The move to cloud is part of the $1 billion Adelaide Riverbank Precinct upgrade, with $90 million being invested in the redevelopment of the Adelaide Festival Centre. "Ensuring that visitors can interact with the Festival Centre will be critical to the successful activation of the plaza," said DOrtenzio. "Our patrons increasingly want to interact with us online, and the agreement with Optus Business allows us to seamlessly and efficiently develop digital solutions meeting that need." Vocus has reported explosive growth for the half-year in its final financial report before merging with M2. Revenue was up 181 percent to $176.3 million for the six-month period ending 31 December. Underlying net profit more than tripled to $27.4 million. Vocus said the results were achieved organically, as well as through the acquisition of Amcom. Fibre and ethernet remained the biggest earner for Vocus with revenue growing 218 percent to $80.3 million. Vocus said its fibre network has expanded to connect to over 3600 buildings in Australia. Vocus other business divisions also continued to grow, which included internet revenue of $41.7 million, data centre revenue of $24.5 million, and voice revenue of $16.4 million. The merger with M2 was not completed until this month, so Vocus results were reported separately. The merger resulted in a telco giant with a market capitalisation of around $3 billion, rebranded as Vocus. M2 brands Dodo, Engin, Commander and iPrimus predominately cover residential and small business, while Vocus and Amcom focus on enterprise and government clients. M2s revenue for the half-year was up 29 percent to $707.4 million during the same six-month period ending 31 December. Underlying net profit was also up 17 percent to $55.1 million. Consumer revenue was up 33 percent underpinned by the acquisition of New Zealands third-largest telco CallPlus for $245 million in April. M2 boss Geoff Horth was appointed chief executive of the combined company, with former Vocus chief executive James Spenceley moving into an executive director role. Commenting on the results, Horth said: The interim results are particularly pleasing given that transactional activity can often distract from business operations. I would like to thank both teams who remained focused on executing on our strategies during this busy time to deliver returns to shareholders. Vocus shares were up 33 cents to $7.32 at time of writing. A US appeals court on Friday overturned a US$120 million jury verdict against Samsung, finally handing the South Korean smartphone maker a significant win in its longstanding patent feud with top rival Apple. The US Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit in Washington, DC, said Samsung did not infringe Apple's "quick links" patent, and that two other patents covering the iPhone's slide-to-unlock and auto-correct features were invalid. The court also said Apple was liable for infringing one of Samsung's patents. In a statement, a Samsung spokeswoman said: "Today's decision is a win for consumer choice and puts competition back where it belongs in the marketplace, not in the courtroom. A spokeswoman for Apple declined to comment. Apple and Samsung have been battling over mobile device technology patents for years. Apple has mostly prevailed, and in December, Samsung paid Apple US$548.2 million stemming from a separate patent case, which Samsung has appealed to the US Supreme Court. Friday's ruling was issued by a unanimous three-judge panel of the Federal Circuit, the country's top court specialising in patent issues. The ruling reverses a May 2014 verdict from a federal court in San Jose, California ordering Samsung to pay US$119.6 million for using Apple's patented technology without permission. Infringement of the quick links feature, which allows the device to recognise data on the touchscreen, such as a phone number, and link to it to make a call, accounted for nearly US$99 million of the damages. While the appeals court said that Samsung did not use the same technology to detect and link to specific data, it also said Apple's other patents were obvious compared to previously known inventions and should never have been granted. Chicago-based patent lawyer Bradley Hulbert, who has followed the litigation, said the decision is "a clear signal that Apple is not invincible and that alternative operating systems are here to stay. The marketing and psychological benefits for Samsung are huge." Rutgers Law School professor Michael Carrier said Apple "rolled the dice" by going to court and today's decision "shows that the patent wars really are not worth it." Reporting by Andrew Chung in New York; Editing by Phil Berlowitz and Cynthia Osterman Dicker Data has seen profits skyrocket in its first year as a billion-dollar company. Revenue was up 15 percent to $1.1 billion for the 12-month period ending 31 December 2015. The distributor's net profit after tax also jumped from $3 million to $20.4 million, an increase of 570 percent. It was a huge 12 months for the home-grown distributor in the first full year since its acquisition of Express Data. Sales from the vendors it acquired from Express Data grew 33 percent, a rise of $114.1 million. Pre-existing vendor sales also grew 6.4 percent, growth of $22.9 million. CRN revealed back in December that Dicker Data had cracked through the billion-dollar threshold. The scale helps position Dicker against the country's two biggest disties, Ingram Micro and Synnex, which both turn over more than $2 billlion per annum. The results published to the ASX today mark the first full year since Dicker Data transitioned its year end from 30 June to 31 December, in order to more closely align the financial year with the companys trading year. New vendors In total, Dicker lured 11 new vendors to its portfolio this year, including Lenovos server business, Intel, Nimble Storage, Paessler, Nuance Communications and BitTitan. Dicker also gained access to the combined Hewlett-Packard Enterprises and Aruba Networks portfolio when the vendor rearranged its distribution partners earlier this month. Dickers push into software also started to pay off, with sales growing 22 percent to $38 million. This year, Dicker took the wraps off its cloud marketplace, covering infrastructure, business continuity, security and compliance, applications and services from 13 vendors. The company recently forked out $18 million for an additional 17 hectares to expand its Kurnell facility. Chief executive David Dicker thanked staff for their work throughout the year in his letter to shareholders. We exceeded $1 billion dollars in sales and more importantly we made $31.6m of net profit (before tax). We had set a goal for 2015 of over $30m and initially projected $30.9m. We were able to comfortably exceed that. A very satisfying outcome. Id like to thank all our people for doing an outstanding job and I hope they are as proud and happy as I am with the result. Shares were holding steady at $1.50 at 11am on 29 February. In Microsoft's own words, the Surface Book is both the ultimate laptop and the future of laptop computing but what's truly surprising is that, in many ways, it's not far wrong. That said, the Surface Book didn't make a particularly spectacular entrance. After all the bombast of the launch, and all those many megapixels of sneak peeks strewn across the web, I was eager to see the Surface Book with my own two eyes. However, despite my expectations, or maybe because of the sheer weight of them, I wasn't blown away. Although Microsoft's literature indicates it's cast from a painstakingly-crafted slab of pale silver magnesium, it initially looked to me as if it were made from fashionably grey plastic. Very, very nice-looking plastic the best kind but plastic nonetheless. Oddly, there's something about the Surface Book that doesn't look like a premium-priced slab of metal. Pick it up, and the cool-to-the-touch metal has a lovely silky texture, and while it weighs in at a fairly chunky 1.5kg, it largely feels like I'd expect a high-end laptop to feel. I say largely, because even here there are negatives to be found. The slight fore and aft wobble in the display adds to the feeling of something being not quite as it should be. It isn't worryingly unstable, but at this price I was expecting something rock-solid and engineered to within a micron-thin whisker of perfection not something with a slightly wobbly hinge. There are other little, but equally perplexing, quibbles, too. Put it on a desk, and it's mightily tough to open the Surface Book one-handed without it sliding around. It's not even that easy to do when you employ both hands. Given the lofty expectation set by Microsoft's own marketing materials, this doesn't strike me as the pinnacle of design brilliance. The ultimate hybrid design? Rewind to October of last year, and Microsoft's launch for the Surface Book hid one thing brilliantly: very few people clocked that it was actually a 2-in-1 hybrid before the on-stage reveal. Even now, if you didn't already know, you could be forgiven for thinking you were looking at a premium laptop rather than a cutting-edge 2-in-1 from the Surface camp. The only major giveaway to the Surface Book's talents? A Surface Pen is included in the box. The novel fulcrum hinge is what allows the Surface Book to work its magic. The width of the hinge means that the display doesn't fold flat against the keyboard something which irked a handful of our (admittedly mildly OCD) editorial staff but on the flipside, it allows the Surface Book's tablet half to dock seamlessly with the keyboard section. The long strips of metal concertina together to pivot the display back and forth, and while you can't push the display all the way back flat, this does at least mean that there's no danger of the Surface Book toppling backwards. Oh, and it looks great, too. Dab the undocking button on the top right of the keyboard, or the onscreen icon in the Windows 10 taskbar, and the undocking procedure is accompanied by a tiny LED flitting from red to green, and the quiet whirr of the muscle wire mechanism releasing the tablet section. No, that's not a typo: it really does use muscle wire. The Surface Book's ingenious locking mechanism is actually made possible with strands of thin nitinol wire that contract when an electric current is applied. Once those strands release their grip, magnets still hold the tablet firmly in place, so it doesn't just fall backwards you have to make effort to separate the two. That done, you can either grab the tablet and wander off as you please, or you can spin it around 180 degrees and re-dock it to use the Surface Book in what Microsoft rather confusing calls 'tablet' mode. This latter scenario has two benefits: the first is you get the benefit of the discrete Nvidia GPU, secondary battery and connectivity in the keyboard; the second is you can choose whether to use the Surface Book as an on-desk graphics tablet or just a super-powerful Windows tablet that you can carry around. It's worth mentioning, too, that in this mode, the Surface Book's wide, rounded hinge is actually a good thing, as it makes it easy to hold in one hand and simultaneously scribble with the other. Next: The laptop that can replace your tablet? Channel programs News HPE's Whitman Blasts Trump As 'Unfit To Be President,' Calls Christie Endorsement 'Astonishing Display Of Political Opportunism' Steven Burke Share this Hewlett Packard Enterprise CEO Meg Whitman is doing her best to take the wind out of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump's sails. Whitman, the former national finance co-chair for New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's campaign, is even taking the governor to task for endorsing Trump. "Chris Christies endorsement of Donald Trump is an astonishing display of political opportunism," said Whitman in a prepared statement. "Donald Trump is unfit to be president. He is a dishonest demagogue who plays to our worst fears. Trump would take America on a dangerous journey. Christie knows all that and indicated as much many times publicly. The governor is mistaken if he believes he can now count on my support, and I call on Christies donors and supporters to reject the governor and Donald Trump outright. I believe they will. For some of us, principle and country still matter." [Related: The 10 Biggest Hewlett Packard Enterprise Stories Of 2015] An email to the Trump campaign for comment was not returned at press time. Whitman is no stranger to hardball politics. She made an unsuccessful run for governor of California in 2010 and faced a number of personal attacks. Tim Shea, president and senior consultant of Alpha NetSolutions, a Millbury, Mass., solution provider, praised Whitman for taking on Trump. "Trump is like the emperor's new clothes for the Republicans," said Shea. "There are guys jumping on the bandwagon and they are blinded to the political reality. Trump has this reputation as a big businessman, but he is like the P.T. Barnum of our era. He has lost more money than I'll ever make. If he wants to do that with his own money, that is OK. I dont want him doing it with the U.S. Treasury." Shea, who has run a solution provider business for 25 years, bemoaned the lack of substantive debate among all the presidential candidates with regard to the challenges facing small businesses like his own. "None of the candidates care about small businesses even though we employ 50 percent of all Americans," said Shea. "I can tell you why: It's because I don't have a lobbyist. There are millions of small businesses but we don't have the money to buy lobbyists in Washington." Shea, whose company employs 12 people, said only 1 percent of technology consultants starting their own business move to three employees. "The nature of our business is challenging," he said. "It's a monstrous challenge to keep up with the technology. People drop off because they can't keep up with the sea change that is happening in our industry continually. That's on top of a government that makes changes to laws and taxes without regard to the impact on small businesses." Shea said he has tried not to watch the debates because of the rancor and personal attacks that are part and parcel of the campaign. "I try not to watch the debates, but some of it sneaks in no matter how hard you try to protect yourself from it," he said. "Watching Trump speak is like watching a WWE match with the wrestlers trash-talking each other between matches." Security News Bay Dynamics Launches New Partner Program At RSA To Help Channel Combat Insider Threats Sarah Kuranda Share this Bay Dynamics is getting back to its channel roots at this year's RSA Conference, launching a partner program Monday to help its channel partners better address the insider threat challenge. The insider threat problem is very real, as 62 percent of IT professionals say they've seen an increase in insider threats in the past year, according to a study by Crowd Research Partners. The same study found that fewer than 50 percent of IT professionals felt they had the appropriate controls to combat insider threats. San Francisco, Calif.-based Bay Dynamics started as a user behavior analytics company more than 15 years ago. It evolved in the early 2000s into a consulting company, acting as a VAR for multiple large security vendors. In 2007, it launched its Risk Fabric cyber risk analytics platform to help companies pinpoint insider threats. [Related: Palo Alto Networks CEO Expects Security Vendor Won't Be Hit By Spending Slowdown] While the technology itself is critical to fighting insider threats, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer Ryan Stolte said, customers also need the expertise and assistance to set up and run the analytics platform. That's why working with the channel is so critical, he said, and why Bay Dynamics is expanding its partner approach Monday with the launch of a formal partner program. "It takes a community of people that are experts at insider threats and can get these systems up and running," Stolte said. "I think this program is an acknowledgement that we all want to work together to solve the problem, and it's something there's been a lot of demand for by customers." Kier Lane, CEO at Latus Solutions, Redwood City, Calif., said his business decided to partner with Bay Dynamics as it looked to help its customers better manage risk by reducing threats and cutting back on complexity. He said Latus Solutions has already migrated most of its systems to the company's cyber threat management platform. "Bay Dynamics represents a really good opportunity for companies to integrate lots of technology and quickly see threats, rather than taking a long time to simplify the tools you need to do that," Lane said. Ultimately, that's all about driving better outcomes for the customer, he said. That is the most important factor in a vendor-partner relationship, he said. "We're very customer-focused," Lane said. "It's all about the customer." The new partner program, which Bay Dynamics has dubbed the Insider Threat Alliance, will have three levels: referral, silver and gold. The levels will be based primarily on revenue requirements. Bay Dynamics will target primarily regional and national reseller partners, said Lee Sher, director of channels and alliances. He said Bay Dynamics has about seven reseller partners right now, a number he said he hopes will reach around 20 by the end of the year. He said the company also hopes to add three to five system integrator partners as well as one or two MSSP partners. "Our existing partners form the core of this [new program], but it also gives us a unified direction as an alliance to say what other types of partners are complementary, and we should be inviting to this same alliance," Stolte said. "Where can we fortify to be better together?" The ultimate goal, Stolte said, is to push most of the company's business through partners. "We are a channel-focused company and we want to go that way," Stolte said. "Our heritage is being in the channel." Security News CRN Exclusive: HPE-Fortinet Bundle To Marry Firewall, Log Management Capabilities Michael Novinson Share this Hewlett Packard Enterprise and Fortinet have joined forces on a security offering aimed at giving customers better visibility into and control over security threats. The bundle, which will be unveiled during RSA Conference 2016 in San Francisco, will allow clients in heavily regulated verticals -- such as health care, financial services and retail -- to leverage deep-analysis reporting for a more comprehensive view of potential problems across an ever-expanding attack surface. "We have excellent complementary solutions that can address an urgent need in the midsize enterprise space," Jaweed Metz, a product marketing manager for HPE's enterprise security products, told CRN exclusively. [Related: Fortinet Reorganizes Sales Force, Says Partner Organization Is Not Affected] Joining Palo Alto, Calif.-based HPE's log management platform with Sunnyvale, Calif.-based Fortinets enterprise firewalls makes it possible to collect, store, analyze and report on what's happening in end users' networks, Metz said, enabling partners to better address vulnerabilities as soon as they are found. The bundle is intended for customer ecosystems with 1,000 to 5,000 end users, he said. Though the bundle is primarily a one-time sale, partners can generate some recurring revenue by upselling end users on related security subscription services that get renewed each year, John Maddison, Fortinet's senior vice president of products and solutions, told CRN. The companies are offering promotional pricing around the bundle, Metz said, though he declined to disclose what types of margins partners can expect. Metz said he expects the offering to be deployed in a multitude of settings, from clinics and medical offices to credit unions and small regional banks to multilocation retailers. The offering should also gain traction in other security-conscious verticals such as education, energy, manufacturing and construction, he said. The bundle will be offered exclusively through Centennial, Colo.-based distributor Arrow Electronics for 60 days, and available only to partners in the United States and Canada, Metz said. HPE and Fortinet plan to roll the bundle out to other parts of the world in the second half of 2016, Metz said, which will likely entail bringing additional distributors onboard. The companies hope to have 50 to 100 solution provider partners carrying the offering within the next 12 months, starting with channel giants such as New York-based Dimension Data, No. 10 on the CRN Solution Provider 500, and Denver-based Optiv Security, No. 26 on the SP 500. Metz said the companies want to initially partner with a sufficient level of resources to get out of the gate quickly, but will eventually consider using small and midsized partners with deep knowledge of and expertise in the security space. Arrow has committed marketing dollars and executive-level investment into the product, Metz said, and has worked with both vendors on developing partner training and webcasts around this offering. The bundle should help fill a gap in Fortinet's line card and enable the vendor to form new relationships with HPE partners and customers, according to Sean Stenovitch, owner of Fortinet Partner M&S Technologies. "I can kind of see the win-win," Stenovitch said. "It can work out pretty well." The Farmers Branch, Texas-based partner, No. 335 on the CRN SP 500, said he hopes the companies will broaden their use of distributors as the product gains more traction. While M&S has a relationship with Arrow, Stenovitch said his company works more with other distributors. "I'm sure the other distributors will voice their concerns," he said. AIDAprima, the 11th ship for the German cruise line, will be christened in Hamburg (Germany) on May 7, 2016 as the glorious climax of the 827th Hamburg Port Anniversary. AIDA is the main sponsor of the port's celebration. The ship will start cruise service from Hamburg on April 30. "With AIDAprima, we are opening a new chapter in the history of the cruise industry. This ship is the first of a new generation whose product innovations and environmental friendliness will in turn set new benchmarks for the future. With AIDAprima and the next three new ships to be built, we will continue to provide the German cruise market with a further momentum for growth," said Felix Eichhorn, President AIDA Cruises. "With more than 70 calls this year we are by far the most important cruise partner of the Hanseatic City of Hamburg. Hamburg and AIDA - they belong together! Not only on the water, but also on shore." On May 7, the AIDAprima and AIDAaura will arrive together in the port of Hamburg. AIDAaura will call at the Cruise Center Altona. AIDAprima will moor at the new Cruise Center Steinwerder. AIDA Cruises will offer an hourly free-of-charge shuttle with barges between Inner Harbor South (pontoons near Baumwall) and Steinwerder for interested visitors. The ship will be christened on Saturday night with a firework display. Frank P. Micalizzi Ridgefield resident Frank P. Micalizzi was recently promoted to senior vice president at M&T Bank. Micalizzi has been with M&T for seven years, having most recently served as group vice president. As theTarrytown / Connecticut Regional President, Micalizzi oversees M&T Banks commercial banking operations, including middle market, commercial real estate, healthcare and not-for-profit businesses, in Connecticut, Westchester and Rockland County, NY. He has held this position since November 2015, when the bank announced a series of leadership promotions to manage operations in the Metropolitan New York City and New Jersey area following its acquisition of Hudson City Bancorp. Thomas Iskrzycki Savings Bank of Danbury recently hired Thomas Iskrzycki as the banks senior vice president and director of retail banking. Iskrzycki received his Bachelors of Arts from the College of New Jersey. With almost 20 years of banking experience, he has served in a number of senior management roles throughout his career; most recently as senior vice president/sales performance manager for Bank of America. In addition to overseeing the banks branch network, Iskrzycki will also be responsible for enhancing the banks consumer banking strategy with a focus on improving the customer experience through innovative products, services, and technology. Toms Megan Stowell A storm was heading into Connecticut the night of the Greenwich Movie & A Martini screening of Hail, Caesar! so the turn-out was small. Loyal meet-up members Marion Beale, of Greenwich, and Margaret Mitchell, of Fairfield, gave thumbs-down ratings to the Hollywood satire by the Oscar-winning writing and directing team of Joel and Ethan Coen. Hail, Caesar! is an eccentric mix of send-up and tribute, set in a fictional movie studio in the 1950s, where the top star Blair Whitlock (played by Coen regular George Clooney) is kidnapped by a Communist cell, forcing studio production chief Eddie Mannix (Josh Brolin) to scramble to raise a $100,000 ransom while juggling a host of other crises. The scene that moviegoers should remember most vividly is a quite amazing dance number featuring a Gene Kelly-style musical comedy star played by Channing Tatum. The movie within the movie is a Navy song-and-dance picture in the vein of Kellys Anchors Away and On the Town in which a bunch of sailors express their longing for female companionship in a dive bar. Choreographed by Broadways Christopher Gattelli who did the musical staging of the current The King & I revival and who won a Tony for Newsies the number pokes fun at the implied homoeroticism of the sailors having so much physical fun with each other in a few suggestive moments that wouldnt have passed muster in a 1950s Hollywood musical. But spectacle outweighs satire as Tatum dances up a storm and proves that he could have been a musical comedy star in the 1950s. I enjoyed the movie, but our meet-up critics thought Hail, Caesar! was much ado about nothing: Margaret Mitchell, Fairfield It seemed like a case of the emperors new clothes. All of those major actors with so little to do. A few spots here and there were entertaining the singing cowboy, the dance scene. But it was all false starts. You get interested in seeing (where one plot thread is going) and then you move on to something else. Having seen Trumbo, I thought (the Coens) could have done a whole movie about the Communist writers at the studio that would have been interesting, instead of presenting it all like a half-joking caricature. I hope they paid George Clooney a lot for that movie. Marion Beale, Greenwich To me, it seemed like the movie was mocking Christ and faith (in the scenes involving the filming of a Biblical epic). It was utterly tasteless. ... Tilda Swinton was funny (as twin gossip columnists). I like her. ... I was impressed by Channing Tatum. He is so good that I might have assumed they used a double. ... It was a movie with a lot of moments that didnt add up. Next Movie & A Martini meetings: Joe Meyers at 1 p.m. Sunday, March 14, for a screening of Janis at the Palace Theater, 165 Main St., Danbury, and Thursday, March 17, at 6:45 p.m. (film TBA), at the Avon Theatre, 272 Bedford St., Stamford. Visit facebook.com/martinimovie. Email jmeyers@hearstmediact.com This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate If you had told me six months ago that I would consider living car-less in Connecticut, I would have said you were crazy. But that was before Uber entered my life. The combination of an urban and suburban lifestyle always seemed to demand wheels of ones own in Connecticut. Yes, a benefit of living in the Black Rock section of Bridgeport is being able to shop and dine and see movies within walking distance of where I live, but what about getting in and out of downtown for work, and those jaunts to places like Danbury and Stamford and New Haven? My thinking began to change last summer when my car was totaled in an injury-free collision and I needed to get around while looking for a replacement. I had heard about Uber from friends in New York City where it has been providing stiff competition for traditional Yellow Cabs for years but I didnt know how widely available it was in my own backyard. I downloaded the app onto my smart phone and quickly learned that Uber cars were available within five or six minutes anywhere I needed them. The app puts up a map that shows you exactly where your driver is and you can follow the cars progress to your pick-up point. The price is considerably cheaper than that of a standard cab, and when combined with public transportation in my case Metro-North car-less transport becomes even more economical. What I didnt know until I started doing some research is that my new experience of riding with Uber several times a week is a reflection of a tremendous surge in Connecticut Uber use over the past year. The growth in Danbury has been especially impressive, with a spokeswoman for Uber, Ariella Steinhorn, reporting that the number of trips in that city has quadrupled since last July 15. It has grown two times faster than the combined state has. Because more and more drivers are signing up in the Danbury area, customers wait time has plummeted. Steinhorn notes that the ETA has declined from 8.8 minutes to 5.7 since last summer. And drivers like the longer rides that customers tend to take in the suburban areas around the city. Matt Powers, who started out with Uber in 2012 as driver operations manager for New York, New Jersey and Connecticut is the full-time general manager just for Connecticut, because of the way the service has caught on in this state. Powers believes the big expansion in Danbury is due to the fact that the area is so spread out geographically and has always been underserved by traditional taxis. As more drivers have come on board, more riders are learning about Uber, finding out that they can use this service. The same thing has started to happen in Waterbury and New London. Over the last 30 days, approximately 7,000 partners have given a ride, Powers says of the drivers who have signed up with the service. When I mention to Powers that my drivers have included people of a wide range of ages and backgrounds, he says, Thats the beauty of the system. They start working when they want, with a whole variety of different hours. Some work full-time. Some are college students before classes. We have parents who do it while their kids are in school. We have veterans coming back from overseas who have had a difficult time finding jobs. Uber has been an option for them to get back on their feet, Powers says. All a potential driver needs is a smart phone and a car that is less than 10 years old. Uber has been hosting onboarding sessions all over the state, designed to make it easy for drivers to sign up, and to keep expanding the ride services penetration in every part of Connecticut. The focus on customer service and satisfaction is intense. At the end of each Uber ride, the customer gets an email noting the fee that has been charged, and asking to rate the driver on a five-star system. If a drivers rating drifts below four stars he can be subject to suspension. Many of the drivers Ive talked with say they are happy about being kept especially busy on weekend nights ferrying college students, who use them as a designated driver. Powers says statistics back up those driver anecdotes. We do see a significant spike in rides Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings. Students are leaving their keys at home because Uber is reliable and affordable. Theres no reason to be drinking and driving, he adds of the companys partnership with Mothers Against Drunk Driving in awareness-raising campaigns. The state has not yet taken any action on possible Uber regulation, I learned from state Sen. Carlo Leone, D-Stamford, who is vice chairman of the legislative Transportation Committee. Leone hopes to focus on the matter this year. Were in a short session (right now), so it might not make the cut. And its a complicated matter with a lot of ins and outs. But Uber is a game-changer and definitely here to stay. jmeyers@ctpost.com; Twitter:@joesview Somerset jury finds two of three defendants guilty of murder Now in its fifth day of testimony and seventh day overall, the double murder trial taking place in Somerset County is now over. The jury decided. Sign up now to receive the latest Hurricane Ian updates via text Lifestyle | Daily Life | News | The Sydney Morning Herald Were sorry, this feature is currently unavailable. Were working to restore it. Please try again later. Dismiss Chancellor: Over the past few days, Mr Osborne has adopted his most saturnine manner in an attempt to terrify the British people With his pale skin and dark hair, and looking slimmer than ever, were he an actor Chancellor George Osborne might have been typecast as Count Dracula in those 1970s Hammer Horror films. Over the past few days, Mr Osborne has adopted his most saturnine manner in an attempt to terrify the British people: to be precise, he is attempting to terrify us about the alleged horrors we will endure if, on June 23, we vote to leave the European Union. This, for example lies behind his warning via the BBCs political editor, Laura Kuenssberg, that global economic turmoil means he may need to undertake further reductions in government spending. And what, Ms Kuenssberg asked, were the elements in that global economic turmoil? Osborne had one in mind: the prospect of Britains leaving the EU. A British exit, he declared would hurt peoples jobs, livelihoods and living standards its deadly serious. A day later, with the behind-the-scenes political skills for which he is justly renowned, the Chancellor of the Exchequer managed to persuade the other leaders of the Group of 20 leading economies to include the shock of a potential UK exit from the EU in their communiques list of international problems. Immediately after, Osborne pounced: If its a shock to the world economy, imagine what it would do to Britain. Theres only one problem with this neatly choreographed bit of international politicking: its an absurd idea that Britains voting to leave the EU would be a global economic shock. How could it be, exactly? Here is what happens if the British were to vote to leave in four months time. After a brief hiatus to allow Mr Cameron to consider whether he is the man to negotiate Britains exit or whether it would be better to resign and leave the job to someone more committed to that task, the UK would invoke Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty. This is the official procedure under which countries may secede from the EU. It mandates a two-year period during which discussions about successor trading arrangements take place. During those two years, everything remains in place. Nothing changes, whether in terms of our obligations to the EU or its obligations to us. How big a shock is that to the global economy? Project Fear: Cameron declared yesterday that leaving the EU would be the gamble of the century' There will obviously be uncertainty as to what that successor arrangement will be. Will it be a series of bilateral treaties of the sort Switzerland negotiated after its people astounded Brussels by ignoring their own governments firm referendum advice to join the EU? Under its system, Switzerland exports five times more per capita to the EU than Britain does. Not exactly an economic disaster. On the other hand, the Swiss are struggling to persuade Brussels not to penalise them for implementing voter-mandated cuts in immigration from the EU. So perhaps Britain might prefer something closer to the trade deal that Canada has negotiated with the EU an arrangement that makes no mention of freedom of movement. And the point that most concerns Eurosceptics neither country has been required to put its own court and parliament under the sway of the European Court of Justice and the European Council of Ministers. Finally, if no Free Trade agreement were negotiated during that two-year period that is, if you believe Germany would not make sure a deal were cut with the biggest export market for its motor industry we would fall back on the terms already in place under the World Trade Organisation. Under those terms, the average weighted tariff on goods from outside the Single Market is 3.5 per cent. Thats much less than the currency fluctuation in any year: the sort of fluctuation that exists between sterling and the euro you know, the currency which many of the businessmen now telling us wed do much worse outside the EU said we would be mad not to join. In a newspaper article yesterday, David Cameron argued that falling back on the World Trade Organisation could be crippling for our industries as wed have to accept tariffs that are sometimes as high as 50 per cent. Thats a craftily-worded sentence. Which industries within the EU impose such penal tariffs on rivals from outside? Just one, which Mr Cameron carefully didnt name: agriculture. In other words, the Prime Minister is suggesting that a principal reason for remaining in the EU is to continue being part of the Common Agricultural Policy. This, its worth spelling out, costs EU taxpayers about 50 billion a year in subsidies and British taxpayers are the second-biggest national contributors to that monstrosity. I have nothing against the countrys biggest landowners, still less the Queen, but is it really a sensible use of taxpayers money to send half a million euros a year in CAP subsidies to Her Majesty? Last week, Cameron claimed it was essential to stay in the EU because of the prices in our shops. I think theres a real risk that if we leave we would see higher prices. Yet food is, for the least well-off, the single biggest element in the household budget. Perhaps the PM should have a word with the woman who was the EUs budget commissioner for many years, Dalia Grybauskaite, now the Lithuanian president. She raged that the Common Agricultural Policy forces consumers to pay two or three times more for food than we would pay without the policy. Under what madcap inversion of all the laws of economic logic would Britains seceding from this grotesque form of agricultural protectionism be a risk to the global economy? And if the British family were to pay much less for its food, and Britain were to reclaim its billions of pounds a year spent funding the CAP across the Continent, how would this be a dreadful shock to the British economy? Yet still, ramping up the rhetoric of Operation Fear, Cameron declared yesterday that leaving the EU would be the gamble of the century. When you think about it, this is most odd. Until very recently, he repeatedly implied he was not set on remaining in the EU, with the phrase I rule nothing out. If he wasnt lying when he said that, he clearly cant have thought leaving the EU to be a catastrophe. But if Cameron really does believe it would be an unmitigated disaster, he must also admit to appalling irresponsibility, committing the nation to a referendum whose outcome could plunge not just Britains economy but also the worlds into chaos and only for the sake of appeasing members of his own political party. Hows that going, by the way? Apocryphal: Albert Einstein never said, If most of us are ashamed of shabby clothes and shoddy furniture, let us be more ashamed of shabby ideas and shoddy philosophies' As Albert Einstein did not say... A few hours after David Cameron had, with boorish condescension, told Jeremy Corbyn to Do up your tie, wear a proper suit and sing the National Anthem, the Labour leader tweeted: If most of us are ashamed of shabby clothes and shoddy furniture, let us be more ashamed of shabby ideas and shoddy philosophies : Einstein. A telling retort but Albert Einstein never said it. Neither did he ever say: It is the definition of insanity to do the same thing over and over again, expecting a different result. Yet scarcely a day goes by without someone using this phrase to denounce an opponent in argument and citing the greatest mind of the 20th century in support. Nor did Einstein say: Not everything that can be counted counts, and not everything that counts can be counted. The purpose of these habitual misattributions is to make a remark seem more profound than it really is and, by extension, the person uttering it. Theres really no limit to its application: As Einstein said, More haste less speed. As Einstein said, If its free, take two. As Einstein said, It takes one to know one. Or even: As Einstein said, Do up your tie, wear a proper suit and sing the National Anthem. Republicans desperate to prevent Donald Trump getting the partys Presidential nomination are putting it about that the billionaire has had contacts with organised crime. In fact, Trump was asked in a 2007 court case: Have you ever before associated with individuals you knew were associated with organised crime? He answered: Not that I know of. Trump has spent four decades in the New York construction and casino industries, so Id be amazed if his firms hadnt had such encounters. Some years ago I was in that city, talking to a friend who had just paid an excessive amount on glass for a construction project. At one point he told the supplier he might go to another firm, based outside New York. Boris Johnson has not just upset the PM with his decision to take a leading role in the Leave campaign for the EU referendum there are tensions in his West London backyard. As MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip, the London Mayor shares Hillingdon Conservative Association HQ with government minister Nick Hurd, the MP for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner. Hurd, like Johnson, is an Old Etonian. But that is where the similarities end. Hurd is dripping wet and, as a junior International Aid minister, is fervently pro-EU. Boris Johnson (left) MP for Uxbridge and South Ruislip, the London Mayor shares Hillingdon Conservative Association HQ with government minister Nick Hurd (right), the MP for Ruislip, Northwood and Pinner Hurds father Douglas, a former Tory Foreign Secretary, is also an unashamed cheerleader for all matters Brussels. And the younger Hurd has a strong local following, having been an MP since 2005 to Johnsons nine months. In an interview last week, Hurd senior, now in the House of Lords, criticised Justice Secretary Michael Gove, another prominent member of Leave, for being backward looking and called on the Tories to come to their senses by remaining in the EU. My Tory mole tells me: Its fair to say there is palpable tension within the two factions at Johnson and Hurds party HQ. They will try to avoid being under the same roof at the same time. Still, if the Leave side wins, Johnson will have less need for a constituency HQ. Hell be measuring up for new curtains at No 10! In Sonia Purnells excellent 450-page unauthorised biography of Johnson, Just Boris, published in 2011, there is not a single entry in the index on the EU. How times change. Snooty Shadow Defence Secretary Emily Thornberry (pictured) Former Labour leader Ed Miliband returned to his alma mater Haverstock School to deliver a speech on the skills necessary to succeed at work. It must have been very short. Snooty Shadow Defence Secretary Emily Thornberrys decision to quote distinguished military historian Sir Michael Howard in her campaign to scrap the Trident nuclear weapon has brought a salvo from the man himself. Howard says: Emily Thornberry quotes me correctly when she reports me as saying that what we need to fight future wars will be geeks, spooks and thugs. But the purpose of Trident is not to fight wars: it is to deter them. Times must be hard for multi-millionaire Zac Goldsmiths London mayoral campaign. The Tories are selling Zac Travelcard holders for 10. When Boris Johnson ran for mayor in 2008 he gave them away. Delightful Eurosceptic MP Jacob Rees-Mogg taunted the PM in the Commons over his renegotiation deal: For so much labour he has achieved so little. Is the Governments policy always to keep a hold of nurse for fear of finding something worse? When Jacob campaigned in 1997 for the Tories in Central Fife he was accompanied by his nanny. He was 28. At least someone has the courage to say it. Tory MP Nadine Dorries told LBC: If the British public vote to leave the EU, I would imagine and hope the first thing the Prime Minister would do is stand down. Upmarket headhunters Bain & Gray have an interesting appointment on their books: We are working on a very exciting private PA role providing support to a former prime minister! The gentleman leads a very international lifestyle and travels extensively. He sits on lots of boards and has written a book so there is lots of liaison with high-profile individuals, particularly within the political sphere. If it is Tony Blair theyre talking about, you would think he could pay more than the 35,000 being offered, bearing in mind the tens of millions hes salted away since he left Downing Street. Labour has appointed former Nike and Barclays executive Anthony Watson as business tsar to try to make the case that Comrade Corbyn is not anti the City of London. Watson lives in Los Angeles. Joke of the week: Lib Dem Lord Wallace of Saltaire said he welcomed the naming of Londons west-east Crossrail the Elizabeth Line after the Queen, and suggests Crossrail 2 [north-south] be renamed the George Line after the king we are likely to have by the time it is completed. Quote of the week: Lib Dem leader Tim Farron: Boris has had more positions on Europe than the Kama Sutra. On Sunday, Crown Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark began their controversial five-day tour of Saudi Arabia. Pictures have emerged of the Australian-born Princess and her husband with the Saudi royal family and their meeting with King Salman bin Abdulaziz at the Royal Palace. The 44-year-old Princess covered up for the occasion in a long black top, loose-fitting black trousers, a soft pink silk scarf and large Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses and was accompanied by 44 Danish representatives. Scroll down for video The trip begins: On Sunday, Crown Princess Mary and Crown Prince Frederik of Denmark began their very controversial five-day tour of Saudi Arabia No headscarf:The Princess decided to forego a headscarf, but while Saudi females are required to wear a headscarf and loose robes in public, scarves are not required for foreigners Conservative: The 44-year-old Princess covered up for the occasion in a long black top, loose-fitting black trousers, a soft pink silk scarf and large Dolce & Gabbana sunglasses The Princess decided to forego a headscarf, but while Saudi females are required to wear a headscarf and loose robes in public, scarves are not required for foreigners and some women choose not to wear them. Mary was later pictured shaking hands with various representatives dressed in a stunning, conservative black Prada coat, a pastel pink scarf and black trousers with her hair pulled back in a slick bun. In January 2015, First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, was criticised by both people in America and Saudi Arabia after she visited the country and decided not to wear a headscarf. Business trip: Pictures have emerged of the Australian-born Princess and her husband with the Saudi royal family and their meeting with King Salman bin Abdulaziz at the Royal Palace Focused: Princess Mary was looking stony-faced as she sat by her husband Optional: In 2013, Duchess of Cornwall Camilla opted for a simple blue headscarf while visiting Saudi Arabia (left) and in 2012, Kate Middleton wore a white scarf in Malaysia ARE WOMEN REQUIRED TO WEAR a HEADSCARF IN SAUDI ARABIA? Women, foreign and local, must wear an abaya (a few get away with long coats) in public places. Muslim - often equated with Saudi - women are said to have to wear a headscarf; foreigners neednt. The face need not be covered, much to the chagrin of some hardliners. The western coast of Jeddah is far more relaxed than Riyadh, with abayas often brightly coloured or worn open to expose the clothing beneath. Source: The Economist Advertisement American politician Hillary Clinton also decided to forego a scarf during her visit in 2012 and in 2013, Duchess of Cornwall Camilla opted for a simple blue headscarf while visiting Saudi Arabia - but did not cover up her hair. Clinton did choose to don a headscarf during her visit to the historical Badshahi Masjid in Lahore in 2009 and Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton covered up with a white scarf at The Assyakirin Mosque in Malaysia in 2012. Some suggest those who choose not to wear a headscarf are making a bold statement, while others believe it is impolite. The royal couple have planned a series of business activities for their trip, with the goal of strengthening trade and discussing concerns surrounding health, sustainability and design. Controversy: In January 2015, First Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama, was criticised by both people in America and Saudi Arabia after she visited the country and decided not to wear a headscarf To wear or not? American politician Hillary Clinton decided to forego a scarf during her visit to Saudi Arabia in 2012 (left) but did choose to don a headscarf during her visit to Badshahi Masjid in Lahore in 2009 (right) Modern Prince: Prince Frederik was pictured looking relaxed as the group strolled through the palace grounds, wearing a tailored navy blazer, a blue striped shirt and cream trousers The controversial tour was almost cancelled earlier this year after human rights groups, including Amnesty International, voiced concerns about the country's human rights record - many suggesting the couple's visit would mean they accepted the political differences. Prince Frederik was pictured looking relaxed as the group strolled through the palace grounds, wearing a tailored navy blazer, a blue striped shirt and cream trousers. He completed his get-up with a pair of gold sunglasses and simple black leather shoes. Public breastfeeding is an issue that has been debated Haddas Ancliffe, a 21-year-old mother from the Gold Coast, Queensland, has won praise after she shared a snap of herself breastfeeding her baby at a wedding. The stylish blogger, who goes by the name Dahsi, uses her blog as a platform for 'self expression and open sharing' and a place to share information about her 'life, adventures, discoveries and notions.' Mrs Ancliffe, who has 8,321 followers on Instagram, has always been open about her relationship and has shared numerous photos of herself breastfeeding and spending time with her baby boy Jonah. Scroll down for video Raw: Haddas Ancliffe, a 21-year-old mother from the Gold Coast, Queensland, recently shared a snap of herself breastfeeding her baby at a wedding Open: The stylish blogger, who goes by the name Dahsi, uses her blog as a platform for 'self expression and open sharing' and a place to share information about her 'life, adventures, discoveries and notions' 'Just me and my baby having a drink (Gotta do what you gotta do, wedding or not),' Mrs Ancliffe wrote on her latest breastfeeding photo with the hashtag #normalizebreastfeeding. The photo showed the glamorous mother breastfeeding Jonah while dressed up for the wedding and sipping on her own glass of water at the same time. The image received over 2,500 likes and over 250 comments - some positive, some less supportive and slamming Mrs Ancliffe for over sharing. Controversial: The image received over 2,500 likes and over 250 comments - some positive, some less supportive and slamming Mrs Ancliffe for over sharing Natural: Mrs Ancliffe, who has 8,321 followers on Instagram, has always been open about her relationship and has shared numerous photos of herself breastfeeding and spending time with her baby boy Jonah 'This is absolutely beautiful. People see breasts everywhere there go, yet have a problem when they are used for their purpose!' One woman wrote. 'GO MAMA!' 'I love this so much. You are a rock star, and I wanna be like you when I become a momma,' another said. 'Thanks for showing this and thanks for not being afraid. i always tell myself i'll be as brave as all these other women for my little babe when she arrives. you go on and keep encouraging other mamas. you grabbed my attention in the best way possible [sic].' Others were offended by the raw snap. Mixed response: 'I love this so much. You are a rock star, and I wanna be like you when I become a momma,' one said Mixed response: Some were offended by the picture, but Mrs Ancliffe stood by her decision to share the photo 'It's cool you're breastfeeding but don't need to show it to the world. Attention w***e,' one said. 'Haha why post this on instagram. Do this in private,' a man said, with another saying the photo made him feel 'ill.' Mrs Ancliffe defended her post and asked: 'How can people not been ok with this but ok with a girl in a skimpy thong bikini or less.' No regrets: Mrs Ancliffe defended her post and asked: 'How can people not been ok with this but ok with a girl in a skimpy thong bikini or less' Motherhood: Mrs Ancliffe also shares photos of her post-baby belly and is proud of how it looks Standing strong: 'My body did the most incredible thing a human body could do and it should only ever be loved and appreciated for it. I am beautiful, screw what mainstream society says, I'm sexy too,' she said Mrs Ancliffe has also shared snaps of her breastfeeding in the past, including a photo of her breastfeeding Jonah outside in the sun and laying in bed. The proud mother has also inspired other mothers by sharing unedited photos of her post-baby stomach. 'It's covered in stretch marks, has a little sag and is nowhere near as flat as it used to be,' she wrote alongside one picture, 'There's so much pressure in our society for mothers to "get their bodies back" and you feel a constant shame if you're not working out to do that, but I can honestly say I am not ever going to try to get my body back.' 'My body did the most incredible thing a human body could do and it should only ever be loved and appreciated for it. I am beautiful, screw what mainstream society says, I'm sexy too!' Controversy: The topic of public breastfeeding has been at the forefront in Australia of late after a large group of mothers held a breastfeeding protest in the middle of Bendigo Marketplace in Victoria on Saturday Protesting: The event was organised by mother of two Michelle Van Zyl (left) after she saw a Facebook post about a young mother who was asked to go to the feeding room by centre staff Mrs Ancliffe said she would 'post lots of saggy, stretchy tummy pictures' in hopes that 'in some way it would make it easier for others to feel comfortable in their skin.' The topic of public breastfeeding has been at the forefront in Australia of late after a large group of mothers held a breastfeeding protest in the middle of Bendigo Marketplace in Victoria on Saturday. The event was organised by mother of two Michelle Van Zyl after she saw a Facebook post about a young mother who was asked to go to the feeding room by centre staff. Next month a sexy new book called Maestra will be published a decadent tale of lust and lacy underwear by Lisa Hilton (pictured) Oh, no. Oh yes, yes, yes! Brace yourselves, ladies. Here we go again. Next month a sexy new book called Maestra will be published a decadent tale of lust and lacy underwear, complete with a panting female protagonist, which threatens to make Fifty Shades Of Grey look like a spinsters tea party in a cheerless church hall. Written by a female historian, it features anti-heroine Judith Rashleigh, a young woman who likes to attend sex parties wearing not much more that a drop of scented oil and a trace of a smirk. Judith is the kind of seductress who can remove a gentlemans trouser belt with her teeth and who believes that the trick to conquering men is to make yourself into whatever it is they cant quite admit to themselves they want you to be. She also has the sleuthing talents of a max-strength Miss Marple, noting that one man she meets is too dapper to be anything but sleazy. She suspects another conquest is not quite what he seems, shortly before she kills him. What can I say? Judiths a bit like a rogue, sex-mad James Bond, only not quite so caring and nurturing. Rashleighs creator is an academic called Lisa Hilton, who writes under the name of L.S. Hilton. She is a glamorous Oxford graduate known for writing well-reviewed, scholarly biographies about significant figures such as Elizabeth I and Nancy Mitford. Unfortunately, they dont sell as well as a rip-roaring read featuring a murderess skipping across the fleshpots of Europe, plunging knives into carotid arteries as she goes. Judith is steely, Judith is angry, but mostly Judith just likes rough sex. Women dont need saccharine sex. Nobody ever asked James Bond about his emotions, said Miss Hilton in an interview with The Times over the weekend, in which she admitted she wrote Maestra as a kind of revenge fiction for being bullied at school. Like Judith, she comes from Liverpool and knows all about trying to fit into the gilded worlds of London and elsewhere. She says she attended sex parties to research her novel, but wouldnt say if she joined in or not. After dusty years in academe, she has already become the kind of literary pin-up who poses nearly naked for magazine shoots and has sold her film rights to Hollywood. Naturally, she is keen to portray her heroine Judith as a feminist icon, but I wonder if Hiltons vivid depiction of a woman who behaves like the worst kind of man is something we should admire? If this is new sexual liberation for women, count me out. By page two two! of Maestra, our dauntless heroine is at the kind of orgy where naked waitresses serve hot lobster pastries along with small glasses of wine that are almost as flinty as Judiths heart. The canapes have barely been digested before the candles are snuffed and the real purpose of the evening begins. Her robe tumbled about her legs, begins one throbbing sentence, as Judith eats some strawberries and feels taut. It goes without saying that she makes her excuses and stays. A month before it hits the bookshelves, Maestra is already causing tremors of pleasure in an industry desperate to find a successor to the hugely successful Fifty Shades of Grey franchise which whip-cracked around the globe in an orgy of sales five years ago. Back then, a largely unsuspecting public had no idea that something called mummy porn was about to conquer the world. The creator is an academic called Lisa Hilton, who writes under the name of L.S. Hilton. She is a glamorous Oxford graduate known for writing well-reviewed, scholarly biographies about significant figures With her reams of badly written, bondage-loving fan fiction, somehow fashioned into a bestselling trilogy, author E.L. James started a whole new market in mid-market erotica. Her books were sold in supermarkets alongside dishwasher tablets and biscuits; her words were turned into a Hollywood film, directed by Sam Taylor-Johnson and starring Jamie Dornan as the wealthy, domineering billionaire Christian Grey. It seemed to spark an appetite for popular fiction featuring the kind of morally dubious heroines we would admire from a distance; strong but flawed women whose motives were always open to question. Gillian Flynns Gone Girl begat The Girl On The Train by British author Paula Hawkins both featuring murder, sex and female ambition bound up in one dangerous literary package. Yet perhaps none of these comes on quite as strong as Maestra. Here, among the 340 blinging pages of sex, cocktails, yachts and murder, is a story destined to scorch into the bestseller charts, then blaze onto film screens. And I have a sinking feeling that when the body count starts to rise and Judith begins to eke out her revenge, women in cinemas will not scream they will cheer instead. The book has already been sold in 35 countries and the film rights have been snapped up by Amy Pascal, producer of the forthcoming all-female Ghostbusters. The book will be adapted by Erin Cressida Wilson, the current go-to screenwriter, who has just completed the film version of last years bestseller, The Girl On The Train. Sizzling: Lisa Hilton has pulled out all the stops with her steamy tale There is much to cheer. Maestra is a dark thriller the first book in a planned trilogy set in Londons art world and among Europes flash new billionaires who move in shoals from St Tropez to Portofino. It is sharp and extremely well written, with knowing references to everything from designer clothes to glossy magazines. There are even moments of black humour. Judith is the kind of serial killer who feels less guilty about murdering a man who reads Jeffrey Archer for pleasure. Yet it has troubling undertones. Whereas Fifty Shades seemed to be aimed at women who were bored and housewives who were tired of sex and longing for a bit of harmless suburban fantasy, Maestra is for the terrifying generation weaned on dating apps, in a world where online porn and sexual gratification are summoned at the click of a mouse by sharp-edged modern women who believe monogamy is for squares. Judith feels cleansed by having sex with strangers, sometimes more than one stranger at once. In many ways, Maestra follows the Pretty Woman narrative. In the famous film, Julia Roberts plays a gorgeous, wholesome prostitute and audiences are encouraged to believe that sleeping with rich men to get what you want is an acceptable pastime. Then and now, many feel it is not a career path to be encouraged or glamorised. Certainly, Judith must endure some pretty horrific sexual encounters along the way and Hilton does not spare us the details. Her heroine copes by having a restorative glass of cognac or a new handbag from Chanel to buck herself up. In real life, Im not sure the recovery is so simple. Hilton argues that in crime fiction, terrible things happen to womens bodies, but it is still verboten to show a girl with a cheerful attitude to having unusual types of sex. It was interesting, though, that despite her sexual bravado, she refused to tell reporters her age. The unmarried mother, who has a ten-year-old daughter, would only admit to being around 40. Whatever you might think, be prepared for an onslaught while Miss Hilton prepares herself to become the spokeswoman for a new kind of unabashed female sexuality thats even more upfront and unapologetic than the last one. In the coming weeks, Maestras distinctive scarlet cover, with its teasing, oblique imagery suggestive of intimate female anatomy, will become the focal point of a national advertising campaign featuring railway station billboards, posters on buses and no escape. For the next six weeks, lorries with the books cover plastered along their sides will truck up and down Britains motorway system, pumping home the message that this is not a book that can be ignored. Dont be scared, girls! Millions will see Maestra as nothing more than literary Viagra, featuring a beautiful young woman just trying to make her way in the world. Or is Judith Rashleigh something much, much more sinister? Advertisement Malaysian make up artist, Saraswati, recently shot to fame on Instagram after using her hijab and make up to transform herself into stunning Disney princesses and characters. The talented artist and self-confessed 'Disnerd' boasts over 190,000 followers and has shared snaps of herself as different characters - from The Little Mermaid and Alice in Wonderland to the Cheshire Cat and Tinkerbell. The skilled artist, who goes by Queen of Luna, has been creating different character looks for years and her early work is just as impressive as her more recent posts. Queen Elsa from Frozen: Malaysian make up artist, Saraswati (right), recently shot to fame on Instagram after using her hijab and make up to transform herself into stunning Disney princesses and characters Ursula: The talented artist and self-confessed 'Disnerd' boasts over 190,000 followers and has shared snaps of herself as different characters (pictured as Ursula from the original The Little Mermaid movie) Maleficent: The skilled artist, who goes by Queen of Luna , has been creating different character looks for years and her early work is just as impressive as her more recent posts In 2015, Saraswati shared a throwback photo to an early character make up of hers from 2013: Elsa from Frozen. 'Oh well, looks weird,' she wrote next to the photo, where she had twisted her yellow hijab to look like a plait and accurately mirrored the character's simple make up look. Fans disagreed with the 'weird' comment, with many labelling the early creation as 'amazing', 'beautiful' and 'perfect.' She-Hulk: Early in 2015, Saraswati shared a green-tinged She-Hulk look where she wore eerie green and purple make up, green lipstick and a flowing green hijab Sally and Merida: Saraswati shared her very accurate recreation of Sally from Nightmare Before Christmas (left) before transforming into Merida from the movie Brave, where she coloured her eyebrows red, wore bright blue contacts and drew tiny freckles on her face Saraswati also shared her version of Maleficent played by Angelina Jolie where she showed off very contoured cheeks, fiery red lips and piercing green eyes, and posted her take on Lanaya, a character from video game Dota 2. The clever make up artist also posted an anime creation where she wore a playful heart-stamped hijab, and a frightening Blink look, inspired by the X-Men character. Early in 2015, Saraswati shared a green-tinged She-Hulk look where she wore eerie green and purple make up, green lipstick and a flowing green hijab. Shortly after she shared her very accurate recreation of Sally from Nightmare Before Christmas, complete with a 'stitched' mouth and a velvet orange hijab to represent the character's long red hair. Pocahontas: One of her more popular early looks was Pocahontas, where she used matte earthy colours and her black hijab to create 'the tribal art' Lanaya and Blink: Saraswati also shared a frightening Blink look, inspired by the X-Men character, and a Lanaya creation, a character from video game Dota 2 Keeping with the red hair theme, Saraswati also transformed into Merida from the movie Brave, where she coloured her eyebrows red, wore bright blue contacts and drew tiny freckles on her face. Saraswati turned herself into a 'wood elf' not long after, with a jewel-laden hijab and immaculate green eye make up - a look that was inspired by pictures found during a simple Google search. Although the make up guru recently shared a snap of her as Ursula from The Little Mermaid, in 2015 she shared a photo of herself as Ursula from the original movie, rather than the modern version. CandyLand: 'I used chocolate sprinkles on the eyebrows, rainbow sprinkles on the lips and heart-shaped sprinkles on the cheeks,' she wrote next to a look inspired by the game CandyLand Jasmine: While her Jafar from Aladdin look has earned much attention of late, many have failed to recognise her beautiful Jasmine look where she attached a beautiful silver pendant to her black hijab and twisted it into a flowing long ponytail just like the character The look showed off her skills as an artist as she drew on every feature with make up and face paint - from the character's haunting grin and beady eyes to her tiny nose. She also created comic versions of herself and shared her version of the evil stepmother from the original Snow White movie. Later in the year, Saraswati showed off an eye-popping creation by transforming herself into a human version of the game CandyLand. Creepy alien: Soon after she shared a scary alien look where she painted over her eyelids to create large black eyes without pupils Creative: Saraswati boasts over 190,000 followers on Instagram - over 160,000 more than she had a week ago - and has inspired thousands with her unique and highly creative approach to make up artistry She attached feathers to her eyes, rainbow sprinkles to her pink lipstick and tiny heart sprinkles onto her forehead and cheeks before covering herself in glitter and donning a beautiful galaxy print pink hijab. 'I used chocolate sprinkles on the eyebrows, rainbow sprinkles on the lips and heart-shaped sprinkles on the cheeks,' she wrote. One of her more popular early looks was Pocahontas, where she used matte earthy colours and her black hijab to create 'the tribal art.' Evil queen: Saraswati also shared her accurate evil queen look from Snow White Rise to fame: More recently Saraswati shared snaps of herself as different characters - from The Little Mermaid and Alice in Wonderland to the Cheshire Cat and Tinkerbell Soon after she shared a scary alien look where she painted over her eyelids to create large black eyes without pupils. 'Here's a closer look at my alien makeup. Darn it, finally had to show my freaking big forehead to achieve this look,' she wrote. And while her Jafar from Aladdin transformation has earned much attention of late, many have failed to recognise her beautiful Jasmine look where she attached a beautiful silver pendant to her black hijab and twisted it into a flowing long ponytail just like the character. The April edition of Tatler magazine could ruffle a few regal feathers as it hails 20-year-old cover girl Lady Amelia Windsor as 'The most beautiful member of the royal family.' It's been eight years since the society magazine last put a member of the royal family on the cover, when it featured Princess Eugenie as she celebrated her 18th birthday back in 2008. Lady Amelia, 36th in line to the throne, who is the granddaughter of the Queens cousin, the Duke of Kent, graces the front page of the aristocrat's favourite read wearing a revealing floral jacquard dress and tousled, flowing hair. Scroll down for video Lady Amelia Windsor, wearing a plunging floral gold and black dress with a sheer neck and lace trim, steps into the society spotlight as the new cover star of Tatler. The 20-year-old, currently a student at Edinburgh University is the first royal to appear on the cover of the magazine since Princess Eugenie in 2008 In 2013, Lady Amelia, then 17, appeared at the 2013 Debutantes Ball at the Automobile Club De France in Paris...but has lived a reasonably cloistered life away from the media glare Wearing an elegant sleeveless jacquard floral dress by Erdem and flowing locks, university student Lady Amelia is sure to attract global attention with the new photoshoot Until now, the glacial blonde beauty has kept a reasonably low profile - largely protected from the media's glare by her family and living a cloistered life at an exclusive girls boarding school - but as Lady Amelia approaches her final year at Edinburgh University, it seems she's keen to position herself firmly in the spotlight. The first image released from the Tatler photoshoot sees Lady Windsor wearing a plunging floral gold and black jacquard dress by Erdem which has a sheer neck and lace trim. With tousled flowing locks, subtle make-up and a fish-plait sitting on her left shoulder, the image will mark the high society beauty's official arrival on the society scene and could even launch a career in fashion. Lady Amelia Windsor is the first young Royal to grace the cover of Tatler since Princess Eugenie in 2008 Society beauty: She may not be in line for the throne but Lady Amelia has been dubbed 'the most beautiful member of the royal family by society' bible Tatler Golden girl of the royals? With sun-kissed hair and tanned skin, Lady Amelia has already garnered some attention for her looks...but now seems ready to step into the spotlight herself. Kate Middleton (right) has previously been the royal who was garnered the most attention for her appearance Natural pout: Lady Amelia arriving at the Queen's Christmas lunch at Buckingham Palace in December The young student is the youngest daughter of George Windsor, Earl of St Andrews, 53, and Sylvana Windsor, Countess of St Andrews, 58 (she's pictured here with the Duchess of Kent) The student is said to be as fashion conscious as her aunt Lady Helen Taylor, once a brand ambassador for Armani. The 'most beautiful member of the royal family' strapline is unusual news as the Ducchess of Cambridge is usually the royal whose good looks garner the most attention. But the young blonde's good looks have certainly been noticed before. Arriving at the Queen's Christmas lunch before Christmas, Lady Amelia was one of the many young members of the Windsor clan who attracted the paparazzi lens. Looking full-lipped and pouting at the assembled press, Lady Amelia saw the image in a car alongside the Duchess of Kent soon splashed across the media. It's not the first time that 'Lady A' has graced the pages of Tatler either; she appeared in October 2010, modelling outfits designed by Hardy Amies, the Queens official dressmaker. EIGHT YEARS WITHOUT A ROYAL! EUGENIE'S 2008 COVER SHOT... The last royal to grace Tatler's front cover was Princess Eugenie Back in 2008, Princess Eugenie chose a photoshoot with the high society magazine to mark her coming of age. Sporting a glossy beehive and gamine features, Eugenie opted for an Audrey Hepburn look for her moment with Tatler - a sharp contrast to Lady Amelia's more tousled look. The shoot marked her first official portrait and launched her as one of the most glamorous young royals of the time. Like Lady Amelia, the great-great-great-great-granddaughter of Queen Victoria and sixth-in-line-to-the-throne, enjoyed a relatively quiet childhood and chose to appear in Tatler. The accompanying article celebrated her lack of scandal - a noted contrast to cousins William and Harry - and her love of high street fashion. The royal, who is the younger daughter of Prince Andrew and the Duchess of York has come under fire more recently for her love of jet-setting - despite holding down a full-time job with a London art gallery Hauser & Wirth, she managed to take 25 days holiday in just ten weeks. Advertisement Along with her handsome brother Edward, Baron Downpatrick, Amelia and sister Marina were pictured across seven pages, modelling outfits designed by Hardy Amies, the Queens official dressmaker. Amelia told journalists during the 2010 shoot that she liked to browse Notting Hills Portabello Market or root around boutiques in the Marais area of Paris for clothes, signalling an early interest in fashion. She added though that her favourite wardrobe item was a jumper my mother gave me. She adds: It was hers when she was young [. . .] and quite frankly, its the comfiest jumper youll ever come across. When Amelia came out at a debutante ball in Paris three years ago, she wore a daring silver dress and in December 2013, Lady Amelia was of the 20 hand-picked girls to be launched into 'society' at the Paris Debutantes Ball. Although Lady Amelia has been a regular on the London party scene (pictured here in 2014 with Ellie Smith, left, at a party at Kensington Palace) she has stayed away from the limelight while studying Growing up: An early appearance for Lady Amelia at Trooping the Colour shows Lady Amelia, front row centre, with her father The Earl Of St Andrews, his wife Sylvana (top right, top left) and Amelia's brother Lord Downpatrick Edward Windsor (far left) and her sister Lady Marina Charlotte Windsor (far right) The Windsor siblings' father Gentle George St Andrews, as he is known to the Royal Family, gave up his right to the throne when he married their Catholic mother, Sylvana Tomaselli, in 1988, only to regain it again in March, 2015 when the Succession to the Crown act came into effect. The trio are second cousins of Lord Freddie and Lady Gabriella Windsor, the children of Prince and Princess Michael of Kent. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are set to visit the poverty-stricken streets of Mumbai - made famous by Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire - during their trip to India this spring. While the official tour itinerary is not yet finalised, a palace source has confirmed that the royal couple will meet with charities working in the most deprived slums. Kate and William will hear how organisations in India are improving the mental health of street children as well as giving them physical health checks, food and water and a safe place to stay. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge are set to visit the poverty-stricken streets of Mumbai - made famous by Oscar-winning film Slumdog Millionaire - during their trip to India this spring, pictured in Australia in 2014 An insider told Daily Mirror: 'As much as possible they want see things for themselves. They will see projects focusing on children in significant urban poverty.' More than half of Mumbais 20 million inhabitants live in slums across the city, and it is believed the pair may also visit New Delhi. Director Danny Boyle filmed Slumdog Millionaire in the Dharavi slum in the centre of the city, which is home to an estimated one million people. The 2009 movie features real slum children who were plucked from obscurity to play the roles. Slumdog Millionaire's child star Rubina Ali stands in front of her demolished shanty in Mumbai in 2009 Danny Boyle and Rubiana Ali pictured as they arrive at the Governors Ball following the 81st Academy Awards in 2009 Slumdog Millionaire actors Rubina Ali, pictured left, and Azharuddin Ismail, right, in the slum area of Mumbai Meanwhile, it was announced last week that Kate and William will also follow in the footsteps of Princess Diana and visit the Taj Mahal during their tour. William and Kate are 'very much looking forward' to the week-long trip around India and the nearby Kingdom of Bhutan, an insider said. Their trip comes 24 years after William's mother was photographed sitting alone on a bench outside the Taj Mahal while visiting the world heritage site with the Prince of Wales in 1992. They separated just months later and the picture became a lasting image of her loneliness. A Kensington Palace spokesman said: 'The Duke and Duchess are very much looking forward to their tours of India and Bhutan. 'Their visit to India will be an introduction to a country that they plan to build an enduring relationship with. 'They will pay tribute to India's proud history, but also are keen to understand the hopes and aspirations of young Indian people and the major role they will play in shaping the 21st century.' They continued: 'Their visit to Bhutan will allow them to continue a relationship between two royal families by meeting the King and Queen. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, pictured in New Zealand, will follow in the footsteps of Princess Diana and visit the Taj Mahal when they tour India later this year, a Kensington Palace spokesman has confirmed The Prince and Princess of Wales' trip was said to reveal cracks in the couple's marriage after Diana was photographed famously visiting the Taj Mahal alone in 1992 'The Duke and Duchess have heard many wonderful things about the country and are grateful to have this opportunity to get to know the Bhutanese people. 'This tour, coming shortly before the Queen's 90th birthday, will also allow the Duke and Duchess to pay tribute to Her Majesty's huge contribution to diplomacy in Britain and the Commonwealth.' William, 33, and Kate, 34, who are both visiting the countries for the first time, will arrive in India on April 10. They will see a variety of aspects of contemporary Indian life, focusing on young people, sport, entrepreneurship, efforts to relieve urban poverty, the creative arts, and rural life, the Palace said. They will begin their tour in the creative and business hub of Mumbai before travelling on to New Delhi - the seat of history and politics in the world's largest democracy. The couple will then travel to the Kaziranga National Park, a wildlife sanctuary and world heritage site which is home to two thirds of the world's great one-horned rhinoceroses as well as tigers, elephants and wild water buffalo. As well as experiencing the rich variety of wildlife, William and Kate will also pay tribute to the rural traditions of the communities who live around the park. Prince George joined his parents on their tour of Australia and New Zealand last year but we can reveal that neither he nor his sister Charlotte will visit India It is hoped that William's visit to the country frequented by his father will be a more unified one than what Charles experienced with Diana Diana was often pictured alone without her husband during her visit to the country in 1992 Then, on April 14, they will travel to nearby Bhutan, a small landlocked country in the shadow of the Himalayan peaks which has a rich Buddhist tradition. The Palace said the couple are very much looking forward to meeting the King and Queen of Bhutan and continuing the relationship between their two families. They will learn more about the heritage and culture of the mountain kingdom and its people. The Duke and Duchess will crown their tour of the region with a trip back to India at the Unesco World Heritage site the Taj Mahal on April 16 where they will thank the people of India for their hospitality by visiting their most famous landmark. MailOnline understands William and Kate felt the trip would be too gruelling for their children. Instead Prince George and Princess Charlotte will remain in the UK with their nanny, Maria Borallo, and maternal grandparents, Michael and Carole Middleton. This will not be the first overseas visit the couple have taken without their children having taken a trip to The States without their first born at the end of 2014. The couple spent several days in New York City in December 2014 without George who remained at home in the care of Borallo. It is hoped that William's visit to the country frequented by his father will be a more unified one than what Charles experienced with Diana. The Queen is a another royal to have visited India with her last trip taking place in 1997 Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was a guest of the Queen at Buckingham Palace in November last year where they lunched together Prince Charles had visited India as a single man of 32 in 1980. Sitting on a stone bench in front of the Taj Mahal, the iconic symbol of love, he had vowed to return one day with the woman he loved. Twelve years later saw this happen as the Princess of Wales's accompanied her husband on a joint tour to the country. However, the media were not granted their 'money shot' as although the couple had planned to visit the Taj Mahal, Charles was committed to a business leaders' forum 1,200 miles away in Bangalore, where he was due to give the only keynote address of the tour. This resulted in the iconic image of the Princess of Wales sat alone on the very same bench which many critics hailed as symbolic of cracks in the couple's marriage. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi was a guest of the Queen at Buckingham Palace in November last year where they lunched together. It was the first visit by an Indian PM in a decade and the announcement of the royal couple's trip to India was made around the same time. A surprising leap year proposal live on television left viewers squirming...after the man in question hesitated a little too long before saying yes. Brave Helen Hartley from Kendal, Cumbria, decided to take advantage of the rare February 29th date to ask her man, Mark Shepherd, who owns a butcher's shop in Ambleside, if he'd marry her live on This Morning. Accompanied by television presenter Alison Hammond, Helen told Mark that he 'was the best thing thats ever happened to me', she finally popped the question, only for him to tell her: 'I need to think about it.' Butcher Mark from Cumbria received a surprise visit from his girlfriend Helen at work... who decided to propose live on This Morning Phew! After issuing an emotive proposal, Helen was forced to wait for her yes...as Mark said 'I need to think about it...' which left Holly and Phil back in the studio on the edge of their seats The cringe-worthy moment was being shown live on This Morning and almost left presenting duo Holly and Phil back in the studio gnawing their fists as they willed Mark to answer positively. It's hard to know whether Mark's hesitation was genuine or whether he was pulling the leg of his girlfriend, who'd obviously mustered up the courage to suggest they get spliced in front of a hefty daytime television audience. At first, she tells her boyfriend that she's simply there to buy 'a pound of sausages' before getting serious about the real reason for her visit. Fortunately, when the answer finally came, it was in the affirmative and it seems that the delay had been Mark's way of making Helen sweat. It was a heart-in-mouth moment, especially as Helen had issued an emotive proposal telling Mark: 'I love you so much and youre my soulmate. Youre the best thing thats ever happened to me' before adding: 'You know it's a leap year...' 'Is it?' Mark appeared to have no idea why Helen had turned up at his shop with a television crew 'I've been avoiding this...' Mark utters the words that no proposal maker wants to hear But it's all alright in the end...after the heart-in-mouth moment, Mark finally says yes - and Holly and Phil breathe out SO, WHY CAN WOMEN PROPOSE ON A LEAP YEAR DAY? Women proposing to their beloved dates back some way...to the 5th century, when it's believed that an Irish saint issued a complaint against the tradition of men being the only ones allowed to propose. Legend has it that the impatient Bridget discussed the matter with St Patrick who agreed that women should be able to do the asking...but only on February 29th, which happens every four years. History suggests that women getting down on bended knee has been happening since at least the 13th century, when a Scottish law was introduced that would fine men who refused a leap year proposal with a gift penalty. Those saying no to the female asking might bestow a pair of gloves or a silk dress upon them. Advertisement The moment starts to take a truly awkward turn when Mark, dressed in his striped butcher's apron, expresses surprise that it's a leap year. 'Is it?' he says, when told before saying: 'I've been avoiding this.' As the presenters, including Alison, wait on tenterhooks, the outcome for Helen looks set to be an embarrassing one as Mark stumbles: 'I dont know, I need to think about that a little bit dont I?' 'Of course, I will,' he then mutters before the camera pans back to the studio and Holly and Phil are seen throwing themselves back against the sofa in relief. Alison Hammond told the couple afterwards: 'You had me going then! I didn't know if you were going to say yes or no!' After the proposal Mark said of his life-changing moment in front of the cameras: 'I could have cried, I could have laughed, I could have been sick, I could have done anything that first half hour.' 'Alison was brilliant, she really put me at ease, but it has been an experience!' A leap year is a day longer than usual years - and happens every four years. The Egyptians are credited with inventing the inclusion of a leap year into the modern calendar. Vicky Pattison has hit back at internet trolls after she was accused of editing her snaps on Instagram to make herself appear slimmer. The 28-year-old came under fire after modelling her clothing range online and hit back by posting a shot of the uploaded photograph and a unaltered behind the scenes image. The I'm A Celebrity winner said she would not take it 'lying down', describing the differences as 'minor' and just to 'tidy up' the pictures. Scroll down for video Vicky Pattison said she was accused of slimming down her Instagram images for her new clothing range, right, so posted a behind the scenes shot which she said was not edited, left Vicky posted the pictures side by side and revealed she's been the victim of 'body shaming' after the paparazzi snapped her in the exact same outfit outside the Loose Women studios last week. The former Geordie Shore star wrote: 'I am slightly irritated with myself that I am having to do this but I've had a weekend full of abuse on Instagram and I'm not one to take things lying down. 'Especially when it's online trolling or bullying, body shaming or women hating on other women.' She wrote one picture was 'unedited' and a behind the scenes shot of her shoot for her clothing range with Honeyz while the other was a final campaign shot. She posted: 'There are of course some small changes. Everything is tidied up, smoothed down or just made to the look its best for a national campaign. The I'm A Celebrity winner Vicky posted the images side by side and said she would not take the body shaming 'lying down' and called the critics 'petty' Vicky said being pictured in the same outfit outside of the Loose Women studios had led to her getting a 'weekend of abuse' for looking different 'But the difference as you can blatantly see is minor. To criticise me, judge me and body shame me over a couple of bad pictures that I happen to have taken in this outfit by incessant photographers who at times want nothing more than an unflattering photograph of someone is petty, childish and disrespectful. 'What bothers me most is that it's ignorant and hurtful and unfortunately seems to be mostly coming from other girls. 'And I say "girls" because girls compete and tear each other down, yet women empower one another.' And she referenced Khloe Kardashian, who deleted an image last week after she too was accused of making changes. Vicky posted a bikini snap to also show the body shamers after buying a new house and explained it made sense to 'do it half naked as well considering I'm on one about body confidence today' Vicky warned her followers about being girls who 'compete and tear each other down, yet women empower one another'. She said: 'Please think before you type, everyone has feelings and bitterness, jealousy, anger and cruelty are an inward blade. That curves into you and only hurts the person harbouring it' She posted: 'Think carefully about which one you are as to quote @khloekardashian, this petty movement ain't cute. 'Please think before you type, everyone has feelings and bitterness, jealousy, anger and cruelty are an inward blade. That curves into you and only hurts the person harbouring it.' The post, which Vicky shared to her 2.8 million followers, had more than 30,000 likes on Instagram since it was posted yesterday. Vicky also had support from a graphic designer. The Instagram user, called CurlyTowers, wrote: 'I Photoshop images every day. People don't realise every single image is edited in print and web, even a biscuit.' Vicky also seemed to aim another picture at any trolls who had accused her of editing her images last night. Vicky was previously involved in a Photoshop controversy on I'm A Celeb when poeple compared promotional shots of her and TOWIE's Ferne McCann to how they looked in the jungle Viewers of the ITV series felt Vicky looked different from her pictures while in a bikini in the jungle and posted that it 'proves it's all Photoshop' She posted a snap in her bikini after moving into her new house in Newcastle and wrote: 'Felt appropriate to do it half naked as well considering I'm on one about body confidence today.' VICKY ON BODYSHAMING Actress Kristin Scott-Thomas recently criticised the dress sense of British women and called them 'terrible.' Vicky was 'appalled' by the criticism. She told The Sun: 'Accusing women of wearing mini skirts they "dont have the legs for" is body-shaming and damaging. I cant believe what an anti-feminist, chauvinistic attitude to the female form she holds. Advertisement It's not the first time Vicky has been embroiled in a row over so-called Photoshopped images. In November, a Twitter user posted promotional pictures of Vicky and TOWIE star Ferne McCann, 25, alongside a shot of them in the jungle. The caption read: 'Photoshopped V reality. Check this out ladies. Ferne McCann and the Geordie girl. Body reality.' Viewers took to social media to debate whether the women had been retouched in their advertising shots. A girl called Gee said on Twitter: 'Even the girls in the magazines don't look like the girls in the magazines.' Another Twitter user Matt posted: 'This just proves it's all Photoshop.' A student has lost both legs and five fingers after mistaking deadly meningitis for freshers' flu. Charlotte Hannibal, 19, from Selston, Nottinghamshire, was a healthy teenager before contracting the toxic virus which left her with a sore throat and flu-like symptoms after a house party. The former business studies student was eventually diagnosed with septicaemia and meningitis - meningococcal group W - which usually targets young adults. She was hospitalised for two months before doctors decided to amputate both legs below the knee, as well as the fingers on her left hand, in a bid to save her life. A year later, despite her life changing dramatically, Miss Hannibal is optimistic about life - and claims she is not fussed about the double amputation as she cheated death. Speaking today, she said: 'I feel incredibly lucky. I'm still alive, and although I've lost both my lower legs and fingers, some people have lost a lot more.' Charlotte Hannibal, 19, was a healthy teenager before contracting the toxic virus which left her with a sore throat and flu like symptoms after a house party. Unbeknown to her, she had meningitis - which cost her both her legs and five fingers While she still has several rehabilitation appointments every week, she can now ride a bike, eat using one hand and can even do nail art on her prosthetic legs. She is now campaigning to warn other students to have the vaccination which she believes could have prevented the bacterial infection. Cases of meningitis W have risen since 2009 when it accounted for only 1-2 per cent of all meningitis cases. The meningitis C vaccine has seen a sharp fall in cases while meningitis W increased to 24 per cent of cases in 2014/15, with a marked spike among teenagers. Miss Hannibal, who is still recovering from her ordeal, said: 'I've always been a normal healthy person - I can't believe how much my life has changed in a year. 'I was going out at least once a week after starting university and I was having the time of my life, I never thought something like this could happen to me. 'The Saturday before I fell poorly I'd been at a house party with my flat mates, on the Monday I left my lectures early as I felt so unwell. 'When I thought I had freshers' flu my hands and feet felt really cold but then my stomach started to bloat too, I didn't know it then but my kidneys were shutting down.' By the Tuesday morning she felt so dreadful she phoned her father to pick her up. After Miss Hannibal's worried parents, Dawn and Peter, and her younger sister, Sophie, dialled 111 for advice they took her to a walk-in centre which they believe may have saved her life. Miss Hannibal was then rushed straight to an intensive care unit on February 25 after her legs had become so weak that she could no longer walk and doctors recognised that something was seriously wrong. She said: 'By the time we got to the walk-in centre I felt so weak, I struggled to walk so my parents hired a wheelchair. Little did any of us know then that that would be the last time I stood on my own two feet. 'Throughout the night I woke up vomiting and my condition was deteriorating quickly by Wednesday.' To her family's horror, she then spent 17 days in an induced coma while doctors battled to save her life as her organs failed. Miss Hannibal was hospitalised for two months before doctors decided to amputate both legs below the knee. While she still has several rehab appointments every week, she can ride a bike and eat using one hand Before her illness Miss Hannibal described herself as the 'laziest person I know', but is now challenging herself to recover and has even recently re-learned to ride a bike Over the next two months Miss Hannibal's body tried to fight off the blood poisoning at Nottingham City Hospital, but sadly in May doctors made the tough decision to amputate after the virus kept returning. 'When I first woke from the coma I was so frightened I couldn't understand where I was and my body was completely paralysed, I could only move my eyes and mouth,' she said. 'I had severe memory loss when I woke up all I can remember is having a sore throat and flu like symptoms so I just presumed I had freshers' flu as it had been going around.' Her parents and doctors explained she had contracted meningitis and septicaemia which had turned her lower legs, fingers and the end of her nose black. She said: 'It was such a scary experience. My body was containing the septicaemia but it couldn't get rid of it completely so after two months doctors had no choice but to operate.' She also spent 27 days in intensive care, before being moved to a burns and plastic ward where she spent further 12 weeks as her scarring was similar to a burns victim. Her kidneys also stopped working, so she had been on dialysis ever since and is hoping for a transplant later this year. Her ordeal has forced her to make huge changes to her life. But despite losing her legs, she says she wasn't upset about doctors having to amputate. 'I just wanted to get better and would have done anything at that point to beat the virus,' she said. 'I feel incredibly lucky though, I'm still alive and although I've lost both my lower legs and fingers, some people have lost a lot more.' To her family's horror, Miss Hannibal spent 17 days in an induced coma while doctors battled to save her life as her organs failed. Her parents Dawn and Peter, and her younger sister, Sophie, are pictured Now, she is campaigning to warn other students to have the vaccination which she believes could have prevented the bacterial infection - and can even do nail art on her prosthetic legs On June 15, Miss Hannibal was able to go home for the first time since being admitted to hospital over three months earlier. Since the terrifying ordeal, Miss Hannibal has spent the last eight months defying expectations, challenge herself every day. Recently, she has even re-learned to ride a bike. She said: 'I used to be the laziest person I know but now I will give anything a go, I have a long journey ahead of me still but I will give every step of the way 100 per cent. 'It felt amazing being back on my bike again for the first time recently and before all of this I used to love nail art so I'm continuing to do things I love.' I feel incredibly lucky. I'm still alive - and although I've lost both my lower legs and fingers, some people have lost a lot more Charlotte Hannibal, 19, She has also found new ways of using her left hand without her fingers, and soon will be getting a cosmetic hand, which she says will be 'amazing'. She said: 'I hope to return to my studies in the future too, although the past year has really opened my eyes and I'm now considering an education in medicine.' As well as recovering Miss Hannibal has teamed up with her best friend William and Meningitis Now to raise money and awareness. Miss Hannibal said: 'Meningitis Now has been incredible, I can't thank them and my family and friends enough for all the support they have given me. 'I plan to do as much as I can to fundraise and raise awareness, I never thought I'd get meningitis I don't think anyone does but it can happen to anyone at any time. 'I hear that a lot of young people are scared of injections, but my advice would be that one needle is worth it to prevent the hundreds of needles and operations I've had to endure since.' In August, a vaccination protecting against Meningitis W became available for all first year university students and 17-18-year-olds in the UK. 'Now people just need to make sure they have it,' Miss Hannibal said. Miss Hannibal, pictured during freshers' week when she became ill, says she hopes to return to her studies soon, and is considering a career in medicine She added: 'I can't urge people enough, if I had had the vaccination, myself and my family would have never had to have gone through such a terrifying ordeal. 'I'm taking each day as it comes but I know if I can get through what I have done in the last year, I will be able to do anything now.' Lucie Riches, the East Midlands Regional Support Officer for Meningitis Now said: 'We'd like to thank Miss Hannibal and William for their wonderful fundraising efforts. 'We rely on the energy, enthusiasm and initiative of her and those like her to raise the funds we need each and every day to continue our vital research, awareness and support work. 'Knowing the signs and symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia, remaining vigilant and getting medical help quickly can save lives. 'Common signs & symptoms of meningitis and septicaemia are fever, cold hands and feet, headache, vomiting, muscle pain and a rash. 'If in doubt, trust your instincts and seek medical advice. 'Visit our website, www.meningitisnow.org for more information.' Feared to cause abnormally small skulls and brain damage in babies, panic over the Zika virus is sweeping the globe. In Brazil, the authorities are investigating 4,000 cases of microcephaly, a condition in which a newborn's head is smaller than normal and the brain may not have developed properly, linked to Zika. And it has now spread to Europe, with four cases confirmed in Britain, and the first European instance of the virus being transmitted sexually reported in France this month. Yet, while concern over Zika is well-justified, it may be easier to eradicate than the common flu, according to John Oxford, Emeritus Professor of Virology at Queen Marys School of Medicine and Dentistry. Writing for the medical blogging website The Hippocratic Post, he says the Zika virus has hardly changed in the last 50 years, while flu mutates so quickly scientists are 'always a step behind'. Here, he explains why a Zika vaccine may be ready by autumn 2016, but it is unlikely we will ever wipe out flu... Scroll down for video Professor John Oxford, of Queen Mary's School of Medicine and Dentistry, says it may be easier to tackle and eradicate the Zika virus than flu. The H1N1 strain of the influenza virus is pictured under the microscope EASIER TO TACKLE Zika has been linked to a huge increase in the number of babies born with small heads in Brazil, and may be the scariest virus around just now. But its actually going to be much easier to tackle and eradicate than flu, which has managed to evade our best attempts to wipe it out for decades. Every year in February, scientists from around the world gather at the Head Quarters of the World Health Organisation in Geneva and decide which three flu types are likely to cause the most problems in the next flu season. This is based on what has happened during the previous winter (our summer) in the southern hemisphere, which gives an early indication of which flu viruses are likely to affect us next. The vaccines are then developed and given to people who need them in October or November, before the flu season starts in the northern hemisphere. But dont expect the experts to get it right most of the time or even some of the time. FLU MUTATES, WHILE ZIKA HARDLY CHANGES As happened in 2015, we very often get our predictions wrong simply because the virus mutates faster than we can keep up. Zika, on the other hand, which is linked to brain damage in newborns in 23 countries including Brazil, is a virus that has hardly changed in 50 years. Even now, it remains perfectly possible that Zika has not mutated at all, but has just flourished in its new home (it used to be confined to Africa). Panic over the Zika virus has spread over the globe, as it is linked to microcephaly, a birth defect in which a newborn's head is smaller than normal and the brain may not have developed properly It has simply exploited densely populated urban areas where many people collect rain water to drink and store it near their homes. This makes it easy for the Zika-carrying Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, which bite anytime during the day, to breed right next to people and pass infected blood quickly from person to person. This means it should be relatively easy to create a vaccine that works for a long time and prevents Zika infection taking hold. THE PATH TO A VACCINE GlaxoSmithKline plc have announced that they are fast tracking feasibility studies to see if they can use existing vaccine technology to work on a Zika vaccine. Canadian scientist Gary Kobinger, who worked on the Ebola vaccine and part of a consortium working on a Zika vaccine, has revealed that the first stage of human testing could start in early August meaning it could be ready by autumn 2016. He said that the vaccine he is working on mimics the virus, triggering the bodys immune system. The Zika virus, spread by Aedes aegypti mosquitoes, has hardly changed in 50 years, Professor Oxford says FLU VACCINES ARE ALWAYS 'ONE STEP BEHIND' Flu jabs have to change constantly, sometimes even during a season. When this happens, vaccines dont protect against a mutated form of virus because they are designed to fight another slightly different version. In early 2015, scientists pinpointed Influenza A type H3N2 and two others which were thought to be less of a problem. Although H3N2 is not as virulent as some other strains of flu, it mutates very easily, which is what seems to have happened. Around 20 per cent of patients were infected with mutated strains is higher than we expect, normally just two per cent. Flu vaccines don't protect against a mutated form of the virus because they are designed to fight another slightly different version Even without mutations to worry about, the scientists are doomed to be one step behind the flu contagion. The flu cycle is a constant merry go round with new flu bugs constantly developing around the equator where the virus can thrive all year round. Every now and them, a super version like H1N1 or bird flu, proves very resistant and causes a world wide pandemic the last one we had was in 2009. MORE REGULAR FLU PANDEMICS Flu pandemics have occurred every few decades, in 1918, 1957, 1968 and 2009, but there is good reason to believe that they may actually happen more regularly in future. This is due to the population explosion, bringing people in much closer proximity to one another allowing the virus to spread, and the increasing number of people who expect to eat meat protein, often living in close quarters with pigs, fowl and other animals that are known to harbour flu which can cross the species barrier. The good news is that we do produce vaccines that work most of the time for most of the people, and innovations like Tamiflu can protect people further who at high risk of infection. Treatment is now better too so people are more likely to survive outbreaks. Flu pandemics will return again and again, but the Zika pandemic should be over when a vaccine is created, sadly leaving an appalling legacy to remember it by. Gadgets are most often used to comfort children with There was a time when a screaming child was given a dummy to keep them quiet. But difficult toddlers are now handed an iPad or smartphone instead, experts say. The more problematic the child, the more likely a parent is to rely on modern technology as a pacifier, according to a study. A team at Michigan University assessed 144 families with young children aged between 15 and 36 months. They found that tablet computers or smartphones were most likely to be used to comfort children with difficult behaviour. Parents who struggle to control their childs behaviour are more likely to use smartphones and iPads to calm them down during a tantrum, a study has found (file photo) Study leader Professor Jenny Radesky said: We know parents of babies and toddlers with difficult behaviour disproportionately use television and videos as calming tools. We wanted to explore whether the same might be true for mobile technology like phones and tablets. The team found that parents who struggled to control their childs behaviour were more likely to use gadgets in difficult moments. Some 52 per cent of struggling parents used the technology when their children were upset, 48 per cent to get peace and quiet in the house, 40 per cent while eating, and 42 per cent at bedtime. Some 39 per cent said they gave their child a tablet or smartphone to play with while on public transport, and 40 per cent used the gadgets to keep their child occupied while they carried out chores. Psychologists have warned handing a child an iPad every time they play up means they may never learn how to control their emotions. Psychologists have warned handing a child an iPad every time they play up means they may never learn how to control their emotions (file photo) Parents who were better able to control their children were less likely to use the technology as a calming tool or to keep peace and quiet in the house. But they were just as likely to used gadgets when eating or doing chores, while in public or at bedtime. IPADS AND SMARTPHONES GIVEN TO CHILDREN TO CALM THEM DOWN DURING A TANTRUM 'MAY DAMAGE THEIR BRAINS' Giving a child an iPad or smartphone to calm them down during a tantrum could stunt their development, a study found. Researchers said using the latest media as a calming tool prevents youngsters from developing their own methods of self-regulation. Although e-books and learn to read apps can prove useful, they are wasted on children under two-and-a-half, and are most effective when used with parents, the study found. Dr Jenny Radesky, then of Boston University School of Medicine, now of Michigan University, said: 'Mobile devices are everywhere and children are using them more frequently at young ages. 'The impact these mobile devices are having on the development and behaviour of children is still relatively unknown. 'It has been well-studied that increased television time decreases a child's development of language and social skills. 'Mobile media use similarly replaces the amount of time spent engaging in direct human-human interaction. 'Heavy device use during young childhood could interfere with development of empathy, social and problem solving skills that are typically obtained by exploring, unstructured play and interacting with peers.' Advertisement Professor Radesky, whose findings are published in JAMA Pediatrics, said: We found the less control and more frustration parents felt over their childrens behaviour the more likely they were to turn to mobile devices to help calm their kids down. We need to further study whether this relationship between digital technology and social-emotional development difficulties applies to a more general population of parents as well - and what effect it might have on kids longer-term outcomes. The participants in the study were from low-income families. Professor Radesky said: 'Other studies show increased television time can hinder young childrens language and social development - partly because they reduce human-to-human interaction. Now screens can be taken anywhere they have become part of our interpersonal space. Were interested in identifying the ways mobile devices sometimes interfere with family dynamics - but also how we can use them as a tool to increase parent-child connection. Health officials for years have warned that parents should limit the time that children spend staring at a screen. But a recent study by scientists at Cork University Hospital in Ireland, suggests that instead of being unhealthy for a child, time spent on touchscreen devices could actually benefit their development. Because the gadgets require touch and feel, the researchers said their interactivity means they require similar skills as traditional toys. That authors of that study, published in the Archives of Disease in Childhood journal in December, said: Interactive touchscreen applications offer a level of engagement not previously experienced with other forms of media and are more akin to traditional play. Another study suggests that instead of being unhealthy for a child, time spent on touchscreen devices could actually benefit their development (file photo) This opens up the potential application of these devices for both assessment of development and early intervention in high-risk children. In 1999 the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended that screen time be discouraged in children under the age of two, on the grounds that it risked exposure to unsuitable material and discouraged other important interactions. Switching the clocks back and forward each year may trigger a wave of strokes, research suggests. Scientists think that daylight saving time gives the human body clock a jolt. And they found that the number of stroke victims taken to hospital rises for a few days after the time changes. Scientists analysed ten years worth of data from hospitals in Finland. They compared the average number of people admitted with a stroke in the week of a daylight saving transition, compared to the two weeks before and two weeks after that week. The team found that the rate of ischemic strokes - the most common type - increased by an average 8 per cent in the first two days after the clocks went back in the autumn or forward in the spring. Switching the clocks back and forward each year may trigger a wave of strokes, a study has found After two days, they found that the rate returned to normal. The scientists, from the University of Turku in Finland, suspect that the temporary spike in stroke incidence might be related to the change in daily sleep-wake cycle. Nearly all living things have an internal mechanism - known as the circadian rhythm or body clock - which synchronises bodily functions to the 24-hour pattern of the Earths rotation. In humans, the clock is regulated by the bodily senses, most importantly the way the eye perceives light and dark and the way skin feels temperature changes. The mechanism rules our daily rhythms, including our sleep and waking patterns and metabolism. It also determines if we are a morning person or an evening person. There is growing evidence that altering this rhythm - for example by working antisocial hours or regularly traveling between different time zones - places a strain on the body clock and creates long-term health problems. THE SECRET TO A HAPPY WORKFORCE? LET WORKERS HAVE A LIE-IN AND CHOOSE THE HOURS THAT SUIT THEIR BODY CLOCK Employers should allow staff to have a lie in if it suits their body clock, biologists suggested. Reorganising the day to let people work according to their individual chronotype, will make them happier and healthier, a study found. Every person has a slightly different body clock or chronotype, putting them each on a spectrum between the morning lark who likes to be up at dawn, and the night owl who prefers to work into the evening. But four out of every five people is working against their individual body clock, scientists suggest - forced by the dictates of society and employment to be active when they should be asleep This problem, which biologists call social jetlag, has been linked to diseases such as diabetes, obesity and cancer. Now, in an experiment in a German steel factory, scientists have demonstrated that allowing people to adjust their work pattern to suit their individual preferences results in a much happier, healthier workforce. Advertisement The new study, presented at the American Academy of Neurology annual meeting in Vancouver, suggests that even switching the clock by a single hour may take its toll on the body. Study author Dr Jori Ruuskanen said: Previous studies have shown that disruptions in a persons circadian rhythm, also called an internal body clock, increase the risk of ischemic stroke, so we wanted to find out if daylight saving time was putting people at risk. His team found that people with cancer were 25 per cent more likely to have a stroke after the clocks changed than during another period. The risk was also higher for those over age 65s, who were 20 per cent more likely to have a stroke in the two days after the transition. Dr Ruuskanen said: Further studies must now be done to better understand the relationship between these transitions and stroke risk and to find out if there are ways to reduce that risk. A link between stroke risk and sleep patterns is well established. A US study this months found that people who sleep for more than eight hours a night are 146 per cent more likely to suffer a stroke, while those who sleep for less than six hours a night have a 22 per cent increased stroke risk. A Russian study last year found that people who struggle to get to sleep at night are up to four times more likely to suffer a stroke than those who quickly nod off. A large British project in 2014 suggested people in the UK get two hours less sleep a night than they did 60 years ago. The authors of that study, from Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard, Manchester and Surrey universities, warned that people have become supremely arrogant by ignoring the importance of sleep. The rate of ischemic strokes - the most common type - increased by an average 8 per cent in the first two days after the clocks went back in the autumn or forward in the spring , scientists found Professor Russell Foster, a neuroscience at the University of Oxford, said at the time: We are the supremely arrogant species; we feel we can abandon four billion years of evolution and ignore the fact that we have evolved under a light-dark cycle. What we do as a species, perhaps uniquely, is override the clock. And long-term acting against the clock can lead to serious health problems. The clocks go forward in Britain this year on Easter Day, March 27. The system was introduced in 1907 to make the most of the morning sunlight in the winter months. The Delhi health department is set for a major reshuffle, with new medical superintendents bound for various government hospitals. The development shows the Delhi government has finally got takers for the top posts at its hospitals. Mail Today had reported on December 5, 2015 how senior doctors in Delhi are not interested in taking up the post of medical superintendent at government hospitals as they are reluctant to work with the AAP government. Sources claim around 36 hospitals will have new heads, and some might even have two. (Picture for representation.) Now, application forms have been filled out, interviews conducted, and the government is all set to come out with the list by the end of this week. If things go according to plan, young minds will soon be running the government hospitals in the city. The AAP government has always been vocal about having young doctors on board. The government had also changed the basic criteria for applying for the post of medical superintendent. Delhi Health Minister Satyender Jain had recently said the government is making efforts to appoint younger medical superintendents at its hospitals. Efforts will be made to appoint younger medical superintendents at government hospitals. For instance, post graduates with 10+ years of experience or undergraduates with 15 years of experience, Jain said, during a convention by Federation of Resident Doctors Association at Maulana Azad Medical College. Sources said around 36 hospitals will have new heads, and some might even have two heads. Various hospitals like Deen Dayal Upadhyaya hospital, Dr Hedgewar Aarogya Sansthan, and Babu Jagjivan Ram Hospital might get new faces. Aruna Asaf Ali hospital has been given additional charge of Sushruta Trauma centre. The trauma centre was earlier with Lok Nayak hospital. Interviews were concluded on Saturday. After receiving a final approval from the minister, the list will be displayed, a senior Delhi government official told Mail Today. In July last year, the government reshuffled the heads of some government hospitals. The medical superintendents of Aruna Asaf Ali Hospital, Babu Jagjivan Ram Memorial Hospital, Shri Dada Dev Matri Avum Shishu Chikitsalaya, Satyawadi Raja Harish Chandra Hospital, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital and Lok Nayak Hospital were transferred from their respective posts. In 2014 also the AAP government had transferred medical superintendents of Deen Dayal Upadhyay Hospi tal, Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Babu Jagjivan Ram Memorial Hospital, Aruna Asaf Ali Hospital, Bhagwan Mahavir Hospital, Madan Mohan Malviya Hospital, Rao Tula Ram Memorial Hospital and Lal Bahadur Shastri Hospital. In October the Delhi government had come out with a circular inviting applications for the post of medical superintendent, which according to sources did not get many applicants initially. The Delhi government then came out with a second order on December 2, extending the date for submitting application for the post of medical superintendent to December 31. Earlier, the deadline was October 31. A medical superintendent is the seniormost officer responsible for the functioning of any government hospital. Most administrative-level decisions are taken by the hospitals medical superintendent. Also, the health department has put out proposals which include making senior resident doctors who have completed three years of residency eligible for the position of Assistant Professors wherever vacancies exist. A cashier and the security guard of the MCD toll plaza in Badarpur area were shot dead in the wee hours of Sunday by attackers on motorbikes. Cashier Manmohan Singh Sharma (60) and guard Mahipal (50) were taken to hospital and later succumbed to their injuries. According to police, preliminary investigation indicated that it was a case of robbery gone wrong. Police believe the two men were shot when an attempted robbery went wrong. (Picture for representation). The two employees were guarding around 2.50 crore of cash collected at the toll plaza over a period, police said. However, the investigators are also probing the angle of personal rivalry. It also appears that their attackers took a laptop bag with them. A team has been constituted to track them down, police said. During the firing, the locals raised an alarm and the police were informed. Senior officials of the district also visited the spot, they said. The firing took place around 7am in a room on the ground floor of a building located some 500 meters away from the Badarpur toll plaza. According to eyewitnesses, no cash was robbed from the crime scene. The attackers fled with a bag but it was empty, they claimed. Sources claim the crime coincided with the disappearance of two boys who had taken accommodation near the scene of the incident. The landlord of the accommodation was also questioned by the police. Hasan Warekar allegedly killed his relatives with a knife before taking his own life Fourteen members of a family were found massacred in a house in Thane near Mumbai. The incident took place in the citys Kasarvadavli area early on 28 February. The attacker, named as Asnain Anwar Warekar, allegedly slit the victims throats one after another. Among the 13 people killed, seven are children and six adults. Later, the suspected accused, Husnail Warekar, hanged himself - taking the death toll to 14. Thirty-two-year-old Warekar was found with a knife in his hand. One woman from the family survived the attack and has been admitted to a private hospital. The woman, said to be the assailants sister, is said to be in a critical condition. There is only one survivor. We havent recorded her statement yet as she is in a state of shock, said Joint Commissioner of Police, Thane, Ashutosh Dumre. The police are yet to establish the motive behind the incident. A forensic team has been summoned to the crime scene while the bodies have been sent for an autopsy. Hasnen had called his three sisters and their children from Koparkhairne in Navi Mumbai and Mahapoli near Bhiwandi for a get-together, which he used to host frequently. Hasnen, a commerce graduate who used to prepare tax documents with a CA firm in Navi Mumbai, is suspected to have offered them drinks laced with sedatives and slit their throats. First-hand accounts of the gang-rape attacks which allegedly happened during the Jat agitation at Murthal seem to be trickling out. The first FIR in the case was registered on Sunday. Appearing before the Special Investigation Team (SIT), a woman from Narela in Delhi claimed that she was raped by seven people, including two of her relatives, on the intervening night of February 22-23. This could be the first breakthrough for us with the first victim appearing before us and lodging written complaints against seven persons. We have registered an FIR under relevant Sections of the IPC. We are investigating the matter, DIG and head of the SIT Raj Shree Singh said. Jat protesters have been on a rampage in Haryana demanding reservation under Other Backward Class category The woman, as per her claims, was travelling from Hardwar to Narela on February 22 when a bunch of goons stopped her vehicle. I started from Hardwar to Narela with my minor daughter in a bus. Later, the bus developed a technical snag following which I took a Maruti van to reach my native place in Jathedi, Narela. The van was stopped near Sukhdev dhaba and the miscreants overpowered male passengers. They held my daughter and me hostage in an isolated place, where they gang-raped me, the woman said in her complaint. The alleged victim has identified two of the culprits as her brothers-in-law. The accused have also identified the woman as their sister-in-law. The SIT has admitted that the case could be linked to a family dispute, but said that as the alleged incident took place at the same venue as the alleged Murthal gang-rapes, a thorough investigation is needed to verify the woman's claims. The alleged sexual assaults at Murthal took place on the intervening night of February 22-23 when around 30 miscreants had allegedly stopped vehicles on NH-1 and set them on fire. They also brutally assaulted male passengers. The accused then allegedly forced all male passengers to leave the place while they allegedly held at least 10 women hostage. After the male passengers left, the accused allegedly tore the womens clothes and gang-raped them. Four women of the 10 managed to escape and take shelter behind an eatery, Marik Sukhdev Dhaba, while others were abandoned naked on open land before being rescued by their relatives, who are residents of neighbouring Hasanpur and Kurad villages. On Saturday, a truck driver from Punjab also approached the Haryana Police claiming to be an eyewitness to the rapes. Meanwhile, the police have recovered womens clothes, including undergarments, from the spot and sent them to Madhuban for forensic tests. Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal, and CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury are among nine people booked on sedition charges in connection with the JNU row, the Hyderabad police have said. A FIR has been registered against Rahul, Kejriwal, Yechury, Congress leaders Anand Sharma and Ajay Maken, CPI leader D Raja, JD(U) spokesperson KC Tyagi, JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar, and JNU research scholar Umar Khalid, based on a complaint filed by lawyer Janardhan Goud. It is a court-referred matter. Following the courts directive, a case under Section 124A of the IPC (sedition) has been registered on Saturday against nine persons, including Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal, Sitaram Yechury, JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar, and others, Saroornagar police station inspector S Lingaiah said. Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi visited JNU campus on February 14 and accused the NDA government of suppressing the students' voices The court has posted the matter for hearing on March 4. In his petition, Goud said Rahul and other leaders, despite being aware that Delhi Police had registered a case against Kanhaiya on charges of sedition, had visited the JNU campus and intentionally supported them - which he felt amounted to sedition. Kanhaiya and Khalid, who were arrested in Delhi earlier on sedition charges, have also been booked here on the same charge. Goud had filed a complaint in the court of Metropolitan Magistrates on Thursday, seeking its direction to police to register a case against Kanhaiya and Khalid for allegedly raising anti-India and pro-Afzal Guru slogans on JNU campus. In his petition, Goud said he has every right to question those who are indulging in anti-national activities, and also those who are encouraging anti-nationals in the name of solidarity for those who are facing criminal charges under section 124(A) of IPC. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal had expressed solidarity with JNU students Rahul Gandhi had visited the JNU campus on February 14, and accused the NDA government of suppressing the students' voices. He visited the campus to express solidarity with the students a day after the arrest of Kanhaiya. Accompanied by Ajay Maken and Anand Sharma, Rahul interacted with the agitating students and lauded the university for representing freedom of speech. Later Yechury, Raja and Tyagi visited the campus. Both Rahul and Kejriwal met President Pranab Mukherjee over the incident and joined the students who held a protest march in Delhi on February 24. The Opposition also targeted the government over the issue in Parliament. HRD Minister Smriti Irani attacked the Opposition for blaming her over the JNU incident and the suicide of Dalit student Rohith Vemula at Hyderabad Central University. The government in turn targeted the opposition for supporting those who raised anti-national slogans. At JNU, Rahul drew a parallel between the actions against students there and events leading to the suicide of Rohith. He said the question is why a student is not allowed to say what he believes in. Noting that India is progressing because more people are raising their voices, Rahul said everybody has a right to disagree. Trishla Jain's son Vichal was allegedly found hanging in his room during a stay in Delhi, two years ago. Not convinced by the initial investigation into his suicide, Trishla has been running from pillar to post attempting to register a complaint with the Delhi Police. Finally, a Delhi court has taken note of her efforts. Special Judge Brijesh Garg condemned the Sarai Rohilla police station, saying: 'These senior police officers have conducted themselves in a most careless manner and the homicidal loss of a human life has not bothered them at all.' (Picture for representation only.) Trishla approached the Delhi Police commissioner - but neither the police chief nor the DCP of North district took appropriate action on the basis of her complaint, which was merely forwarded to the concerned Station House Officer (SHO). She had also written to the Lieutenant Governor and the Human Rights Commission seeking their attention in the matter, the court heard. Special Judge Brijesh Garg directed the registration of a FIR at Sarai Rohilla police station in the Capital in connection with the death of Meerut resident Vichal Jain, saying that a thorough probe was needed into his possible murder. At the same time, it directed the Ministry of Home Affairs to take disciplinary action against some senior police officers for negligence and dereliction of duties in not registering a case to investigate Vichals death. In her revision petition, Trishla mentioned that her son, who was a handicrafts trader in Meerut, had come to Delhi in February 2014 to collect payments from his dealers. Vichal was living in accommodation in Shastri Park. According to the petition, he was in a relationship with a woman he had been seeing for a few years, and it was she who found his body. The woman reportedly told Trishla that she had left the accommodation in the morning after a fight with Vichal, and when she came back, she found him hanged. She cut the rope before informing the police about the incident. Casting doubt on the womans statements, the grieving mother said in her petition that there was nothing in the room with which the rope could have been cut. Moreover, the woman had failed to disclose the reason behind Vichal taking the extreme step, Trishla said. There were 13 injuries on the body of the deceased, indicating the use of a sharp weapon. The court observed that senior police officers, who were duty-bound to supervise the complaints, failed to discharge their duties properly. These senior police officers have conducted themselves in a most careless manner and the homicidal loss of a human life has not bothered them at all, the judge said. Ticking off the department, the court marked the copy of the order to Secretary, Home Affairs and sought a report within six weeks of the action taken. Status reports filed before the trial court and the case file produced here had indicated a careless attitude and dereliction of duties on part of the SHO of Sarai Rohilla police station, as well as senior police officers, including the then DCP (north district) and the in charge of the complaints cell at police headquarters. Hugo Dixon is chairman and editor-in-chief of InFacts, a journalistic enterprise making the case for Britain to stay in the EU. We may not like bankers, but the City of London is our most important industry. Financial services account for nearly 10 per cent of our economy and 11 per cent of tax revenue. So it matters whether the City thrives if we quit the European Union. Alex Brummer, the Daily Mails City Editor, made an eloquent case for how the City would survive if we left the EU. But he understated how much our financial services industry would be damaged and overstated the amount of regulation wed jettison. Trade: Hugo Dixon says that, even though the EU is struggling economically, it would be foolish to diminish our access to this market Brummer also failed to mention that, if we stay, we could lead a new golden age for European finance now that Brussels is embracing market-based finance. Lord Hill, Britains EU commissioner, is creating a capital markets union which will be hugely beneficial for the City. We might not be able to tap it if we quit. Indeed, without our impetus, it might not even come into existence. Brummer is correct that we would survive if we quit the EU. But we would not thrive as much as if we remain. Look, first, at the overall economy. Nearly half of our trade is with the EU. Even though the bloc is struggling economically, it would be foolish to diminish our access to this market. Theres no reason why, if we stay, we cant trade with European countries and those further afield (many of which, including Russia and China, are also struggling). Now look at finance. The City isnt just important for the jobs and taxes it generates. Lawyers, accountants and consultants all service finance. Bankers spend their bonuses on art, restaurants, schools, doctors, taxis and so forth. The City sits at the apex of a lot of other jobs. The City: Dixon says the UK's financial services industry would be damaged if it were to leave the EU The Leave camp hasnt spelled out what it wants if we quit. But there are two main options. In one, we keep full access to the EUs single market, like Norway. But wed still have to follow all its rules and we wouldnt even get a vote. For those who pretend to care about sovereignty, thats clearly a step backwards. It could also damage the City, as Brussels would determine our financial regulations which wed meekly have to adopt. Despite all the noise about how we get outvoted in the EU, the only significant financial issue where weve lost out is on a rule that caps bankers bonuses to twice their salary. Although this is a foolish regulation, many British people like it. Opinions: Daily Mails City Editor Alex Brummer acknowledges that the City would lose its passport, but he doesnt think its too serious Could it really be in our interest to hand over the keys to our most valuable industry to the EU? There is, of course, no continental financial centre to rival London. But you can bet that Frankfurt, Paris and Dublin would salivate at the possibility of attracting slices of our industry. They may already be developing plans to do just that. The other option is that we quit the single market as well as the EU. But this would amount to jumping from the frying pan into the fire. UK-based firms would no longer have a passport allowing them to provide services in the other 27 countries. Firms wanting to do business in the EU would then have to relocate there by setting up subsidiaries. Although Brummer acknowledges that the City would lose its passport, he doesnt think its too serious. He says wed lose only a fraction of our investment banking jobs, mentioning that Goldman Sachs says it would relocate a third of its 6,000 jobs across the Channel. A third is, indeed, a fraction, but it is quite a large one. Photo-Me's photo-booths have been part of the landscape for so long it is easy to dismiss them as old school technology. Teenagers with a few bob to fritter may no longer pile into a booth to take a group selfie like they did in decades gone by, but if you thought the rise of the smartphone had made the trusty photo-booth obsolete, you could not be more wrong. Last week's strong trading update from the company reminded investors that its booths it has more than 22,000 of them worldwide are leading edge in terms of automation and high quality facial image capture. Cutting edge: Teenagers may no longer pile into a booth to take a group selfie like they did in decades gone by, but if you thought the rise of the smartphone had made the photo-booth obsolete, you should think again The high-tech capabilities enable the company to meet the increasing demand for more secure identification systems using technologies such as biometrics face recognition, retinal imaging, et al and 3D or holographic imaging. Photo-Me has a number of initiatives underway to introduce the next generation of secure ID technology into its booths and last Friday it announced the start of a major initiative in France that will see the company's booths used to electronically deliver a digitised e-photo and signature to a centralised government repository, as per the French government's requirements for driving licences. All of Photo-Me's French 7,800 photo booths will be upgraded and made capable of delivering this service as the new connected secure system is deployed nationally. Around 2,000 machines should be upgraded by the end of June 2016 with the rest done by the end of the year. Photo-Me finance director Gabriel Pirona told Proactive Investors that it costs the company around 200 euros to upgrade each booth, but it is a capital investment worth making to take advantage of a new market opportunity. The terrorist attacks in Paris and elsewhere have accelerated the trend for governments to introduce more secure forms of ID. 'The public is more accepting of using face recognition as a way of making our public places more secure,' Pirona said. Meanwhile, in Japan, January saw the introduction of the new My Number Cards, which will see every resident in Japan get a photo ID card this year. Secure ID: Around 2,000 machines should be upgraded by the end of June 2016 with the rest done by the end of the year The move is likely to see 30 million new ID cards issued with the potential for more. Photo-Me intends to add around 1,000 new booths in the region over the next year to meet demand. Potential new markets in Asia are China and Korea, which will be serviced by leveraging the existing manufacturing base in China, the company said. The company is already trialing the system with seven booths in China, where the market is obviously enormous, though Pirona cautions that it is never easy to predict which way Chinese authorities will jump. For now, in any case, growth in Japan is enough to get the market excited, with the shares up 14 per cent this year already. For Photo-Me as a whole, fiscal third quarter (NovemberJanuary) turnover was 11 per cent higher while profits increased by 90 per cent compared to the same period a year earlier. That represents a sharp improvement in the picture at the half-year stage, when turnover was down 3.7 per cent year-on-year and pretax profit was 10.3 per cent lower, although unhelpful exchange rate movements played their part in that decline. House broker finnCap responded to the upbeat third quarter update by upgrading its 2016 forecasts by 9 per cent and its 2017 numbers by 10 per cent, while the price target went up from 170p to 185p; the shares currently trade back at around 172p. Interestingly, the French driving licence initiative does not form part of its profit forecasts, so there is potential for further upgrades. 'The group is taking a strategic turn into security, which should help build future growth. In fact, we are already seeing a solid return to growth,' Pirona told Proactive Investors. It is a welcome development for a company whose chairman, John Lewis, confessed at the time of the interim results in December that the company had struggled to grow revenue in recent years. The imperative to grow the top-line saw the company make an interesting foray into the world of laundry, where its automated laundry machines can be found in retail car parks in ten countries. That's a story for another day, however, and for now the market is having to revise its opinion of the core business, which had been viewed as cash generative, dependable but ex-growth. Last year, the company announced its intention to start distributing excess cash over a three year period (starting this year) as a special dividend. Sales of avocados have soared in the last 12 months with data showing more Britons are buying greens at the supermarket and shunning fizzy drinks. Alongside avocados, spinach, soft fruit, other greens, exotic vegetables, nuts and dried fruit have all seen a sales boom in the last year, thanks in part to the popularity of Ella Woodward and her healthy 'Deliciously Ella' cookbook. In the 52 weeks ending 2 January 2016, 145.6million worth of avocados were bought in UK supermarkets, a 31 per cent increase for the fruit, the data from market research firm IRI shows. Sales boom: There has been a 31% rise in avocado sales with one expert saying it is largely thanks to the popularity of 'Deliciously Ella' Avocados have become a 'must-eat' product for a new army of British fitness fanatics. Researchers in California recently found that consuming one to one-and-a-half avocados per day 'significantly reduces total cholesterol'. Other celebrities have also helped raise the profile of avocados. Nigella Lawson faced online ridicule in November after one recipe she demonstrated on her Simply Nigella television show was simply avocado on toast. Elsewhere, the IRI data shows spinach sales were up 21 per cent to 43.4million and soft fruit up 12 per cent to 1.06billion. Alongside this, sales of blenders and juicers from UK supermarket doubled last year. While supermarkets are just a small part of the overall picture in terms of sales of the gadgets, with most people purchasing electrical products online or at electrical stores, it indicates they are now mainstream and appearing in more kitchens nationwide. With the health boom benefits fresh fruit and green vegetables, other categories are losing ground, including fizzy drinks, fruit juices and dilute to taste products, the research shows. Raised profile: The sales spike in avocados could also be down to Nigella Lawson, who demonstrated a simple recipe for it on toast on her TV show Simply Nigella On the other hand, value sales of bottled waters are increasing, with the category seeing nearly a 10 per cent increase last year to 670million. Flavoured and unflavoured sparkling and still waters also saw increases in the past year. Martin Wood, head of strategic insight at IRI, said: 'It's clear that certain categories are receiving a boost from shoppers' changing attitudes towards "free-from", natural products and food authenticity, and an increased awareness of the health benefits of certain foods and ingredients. 'Typically we expect these figures at the start of the year when people adopt more healthy eating habits, but it's interesting that our data shows growth trends across the whole year. 'At a time when obesity rates are at their highest in the UK, it's encouraging to see this, possibly as a result of pressure on the government to levy a sugar tax on food and drink and the influence of celebrities like Ella Woodward. 'Based on our data, it's clear that retailers are already supporting this healthy agenda, but they do need to ensure they maintain it with the right price and promotion and marketing strategies.' Juicing 'n' blending: The number buying gadgets from supermarkets to blitz fruit and vegetables has doubled The sales surge of blenders and soft fruit come as ready-made smoothies have seen popularity fall. Sales were down 5.3 per cent last year, separate research from market analysts Kantar Worldpanel show, suggesting more people are choosing to make their own. Ella Woodward, the eldest daughter of Camilla Sainsbury, the supermarket heiress, has more than 650,000 Instagram followers and 80,000 on Twitter, making her one of the most influential food bloggers in Britain. Deliciously Ella, published in January 2015, became the fastest-selling debut cookbook on record, with more than 300,000 copies sold worldwide. Foreign rights have been bought in 14 countries. But the father of Austin Haughwout, the inventor, says, ' This is a solution looking for a problem that doesn't exist' When Connecticut engineering student Austin Haughwout, 18, posted videos of his drones firing a handgun and flamethrower, he may have thought they would go viral but he could not have known that his inventions would lead to a renewed debate on whether to ban weaponized drones in the state. Last year Connecticut lawmakers considered a proposal to restrict weaponized drones, but it withered and died in the state House of Representatives due to inaction. Just weeks later, Haughwout's first video, showing a drone equipped with a pistol, went online. That video and its fiery follow-up, both posted in 2015, have led to renewed debate in the state, with public hearings now planned for Monday and Tuesday on two separate bills that would restrict the use of drones. Scroll down for video Armed: Connecticut student Austin Haughwout's video of his gun-bearing drone kicked off renewed talk about legislation to restrict usage and ownership of such devices Firing: Each time the gun fires, the drone is kicked back. New state legislation to potentially limit armed drones will be discussed on Monday and Tuesday In Haughwout's first video, 'Flying Gun,' a homemade drone is shown firing five shots from a semiautomatic pistol, the recoil pushing it back each time. And in 'Roasting the Holiday Turkey' a drone squirts jets of burning fuel onto a turkey on a spit, setting it and most of the space around it aflame. Sergeant Jeremiah Dunn of Clinton, Connecticut's police department, investigated the handgun video, but concluded that as it was shot on private property where a firearm could be legally discharged, no laws were broken, and no local ordinances were violated, either. However, Dunn strongly supports regulation for such machines. 'I am a huge Second Amendment supporter and it would make me very happy because I don't see any, any civilian purpose for a flying gun,' he told Associated Press. An investigation into the video by the Federal Aviation Authority (FAA), which now has more registrations for drone pilots than conventional aircraft, is still underway. Disappointed: Representative Christie Carpino co-chaired the panel that discussed possible laws restricting drones like those made by Haughwout (pictured) but was 'disappointed' to see the discussions go nowhere Flame on: Haughwout's second video shows an eight-rotored drone dousing a turkey with flaming fuel. Carpino's hope for laws restricting such drones has been renewed by new discussions Inferno: The drone not only sets the fowl on fire, but also lights up the branches underneath and the stone wall behind it But for some Connecticut lawmakers, Haughwout's videos were a wake up call, leading to the public hearings that will be held on Monday and Tuesday to discuss new bills restricting drone use. 'Clearly what happened in Connecticut renewed our interest,' said Cromwell Rep Christie Carpino (R), co-chair of the General Assembly's Program Review and Investigations Committee. It was her panel that studied the drone issue in 2014 and last year proposed the wide-ranging legislation that ultimately went nowhere. 'Many members of the committee were disappointed [the legislation] didn't make to the House floor,' she said. She wasn't the only member of the committee who was troubled by Haughwout's inventions. Stamford, Connecticut Rep William Tong (D), co-chairman of the Judiciary Committee, called the videos scary. 'I don't know what he's thinking about, but that's just reckless on its face,' Tong said. Worried: Stamford Representative William Tong, who is on the committee debating drone use, says that Haughwout's inventions were 'reckless' 'I get and I understand that kids do crazy things, but that also raises a question about how we ought to regulate these machines as they get ever more sophisticated, because they do have the potential to cause damage or infringe on the rights of others.' But Haughwout's father says a new state law is unnecessary and that his son did nothing wrong. 'This is a solution looking for a problem that doesn't exist,' said Bret Haughwout, adding that the drone that fired a handgun was 'not at all an effective weapon' and 'couldn't hit the broad side of a barn.' Monday and Tuesday's public hearings will discuss new bills to restrict the use of drones. One would make the use of drones to control explosives or deadly weapons, or to release tear gas or other substances, punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The other would create a similar crime plus impose limits on how law enforcement and state agencies can use drones. If such laws were passed, Connecticut would be one of the first states to restrict drone owners from weaponizing their machines. A top restaurant has been rocked by claims of staff heroin abuse and employees being forced to pay cash for their Australian visas. A former staff member at St Kilda's Cafe Di Stasio, in Melbourne's south, said she had to pay $500 to their employer to keep her 457 visa active and a second employee reached a settlement with the restaurant over $4,000 worth of holiday entitlements outstanding to her. But restaurant manager Mallory Wall told The Age Cafe Di Stasio 'absolutely refutes' the allegations brought against it. A former staff member at St Kilda's Cafe Di Stasio (pictured), in Melbourne's south, said they had to pay $500 to their employer to keep her 457 visa active She also claimed one of the women had a heroin addiction during her time at the restaurant and another had carried on sexual relationships with her colleagues. '[She is] stained with a heroin-infused reality... and having [her] at the restaurant using was just not acceptable,' Ms Wall said. The restaurant's owner Ronnie Di Stasio has also denied the allegations made his former employers. 'The management is distressed by false and misleading claims apparently made by a former employee,' he said in a statement made through his lawyers to Daily Mail Australia. A complaint was lodged with the Fair Work Ombudsman (FWO) in relation to the matter by one of the foreign-born women in relation to her outstanding holiday entitlements. 'I can confirm that an employee at Cafe Di Stasio in St Kilda lodged a request for assistance in September last year, and the matter was resolved via mediation between the two parties,' a FWO spokeswoman told Daily Mail Australia. 'It would be inappropriate to comment further.' Sources told The Age a second woman, from Italy, would be putting forward more allegations against the restaurant. Restaurant manager Mallory Wall sent a photo of heroin (above) she claims was found inside a staff member's locker Cafe Di Stasio's owner Ronnie di Stasio back in 1991. It is alleged he pushed a former employee to sign a letter of resignation She will claim to the FWO she had no choice but to pay almost $12,000 to the restaurant while she was on a sponsored 457 visa. The woman, who was a waitress, was meant to be paid $52,000 a year but she claims she had to pay $500 in cash a week to senior staff members at the restaurant. Her term of employment was cancelled on October 14 after she was fired by the restaurant's owner Ronnie Di Stasio and was dressed down by him in range of hearing of customers as well as her colleagues. The woman was then pushed to sign a letter of resignation written by Mr Di Stasio. 'I hereby tender my resignation effective from the 14th of October 2015. Thank you for the opportunities you have provided me. I wish you all the best in the future,' the letter said, according to The Age. But she did not sign her name and instead opted to take legal action. Ms Wall was adamant the claims brought against the restaurant were false and even went on to say she had evidence the woman had been taking heroin on the job, including video. She also said the woman had been given written warning about her behaviour. But Ms Wall failed to provide any of these supporting documents to The Age and instead she sent a photo of heroin she claims was found inside a staff member's locker. According to the newspaper, the photo was taken about seven weeks after the woman left the restaurant. Sources told The Age a second woman, from Italy, would be putting forward more allegations against the restaurant, claiming she had to pay almost $12,000 to stay in the country The former employer denied she had engaged in any drug use. Mr Di Stasio said the woman 'effectively resigned by walking out of the restaurant mid-service, during a busy evening in the restaurant' in October. 'This followed a period on probation due to lengthy unexplained absences from her post, behavioural issues and poor job performance, culminating in warnings from management,' he told Daily Mail Australia. 'The employee was on notice that her position would be terminated if, despite counselling and management support over personal issues, she continued to flout the high performance standards expected of Cafe Di Stasio staff. Management counselled the former employee that it was in her best interests to formally resign, rather than have her employment terminated. 'Ultimately she chose not to formally resign and was not fired, but simply left, thereby repudiating her contract of employment.' Mr Di Stasio said 'several other staff members' can attest to the woman's 'poor behaviour and erratic outbursts... to the point where several staff refused to work on her shifts'. He added: 'They are willing to sign affidavits to this effect.' The restaurant owner also admitted management had also recently reached a private settlement about annual leave entitlements with another staff member. The family photo of the Fosters and their three pretty young daughters shows no hint of the hell that would be unleashed upon them by the actions of one rampant paedophile priest who worked under a local bishop named George Pell. But as Anthony Foster and his wife Chrissie said in Rome before they entered the witness room to hear His Eminence Cardinal Pell give evidence to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse about what he knew, they hoped their 20-year wait was worth it. The Foster family paid the ultimate price for the Catholic Church protecting notorious paedophile Father Kevin ODonnell, who raped their daughters Katie and Emma, with the result of one daughter committing suicide and the other ending up in a wheelchair. As Mr Foster told 2UE radio on Monday from Rome immediately before he and his wife sat in on Pell's evidence, 'My daughters were raped when they were five-six-seven years old by a 60-year-old priest. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO The family photo of Chrissie and Anthony Foster and their three daughters Emma, 6, (left), Aimee, 2 (centre), and Katie, 4 (right) paedophile priest Father Kevin O'Donnell, who worked under George Pell, tore their family apart To hell and back: Anthony and Chrissie Foster, who had one daughter commit suicide and another end up in a wheelchair from binge drinking due to their rape by a parish priest under George Pell's control, are in Rome waiting for answers from the cardinal's evidence George Pell beams in via video link from Rome into the hearing room for the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse to give his testimony about church child abuse in Ballarat and Melbourne David Ridsdale, Catholic Church abuse victim and nephew of notorious paedophile priest George Ridsdale, pictured with other survivors arriving at Rome's Quirindale hotel to hear Cardinal George Pell's testimony 'These people were told about the person who raped Emma the year before she started school. George Pell was the auxiliary bishop for the area the year she started school. 'I think he's got a of questions to answer ... what he did or didn't do when he was rising up through the Catholic Church. 'I really felt there was a need for someone to witness this in person, rather than just Cardinal Pell in an empty room in the Vatican which is what happened last time. 'The hearing room has more people in it than would have been in the commission back home. He probably now wishes he was in Australia rather than here.' It was the late 1980s when the Foster family lived in Oakleigh, in south-east Melbourne where Father O'Donnell, then aged in his sixties, was the parish priest. As Archbishop of Melbourne, George Pell poses with Katie Foster after her confirmation in this 1985 family photo taken years before her abuse from a young age by Father Kevin O'Donnell resulted in binge drinking an an accident which left her in a wheelchair George Pell blessing Emma Foster at her confirmation in 1993, years after she was first raped by one of Pell's parish priests, Father Kevin O'Donnell. Emma took her own life with a drug overdose in 2008 at the age of 26 Catholic chruch child abuse victim Peter Blenkiron (centre) speaks outside the Quirindale Hotel in Rome where Cardinal George Pell was broadcast live on Monday giving evidence to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse Members of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse stand before evidence from Cardinal George Pell about historical abuse began beaming in video video link from Rome Unbeknown to the Fosters, who had three young daughters, Emma, Katie and Aimee, O'Donnell had been abusing children since 1942. O'Donnell committed sexual crimes against children throughout his 50-year career in Melbourne Catholic parishes, but was allowed to continue conducting masses, weddings and funerals and having contact with young parishioners. Emma was the first child he targeted in the Foster family, raping her when she was a pre-schooler. Next he targeted Katie. The girls and others were raped by O'Donnell during their first few years of primary school. Chrissie and Anthony Foster were unaware of the abuse until later, but it had a profound effect on their daughters. In 1999 Katie Foster, who had developed a binge drinking problem, was hit by a car, and remains profoundly disabled. In 2008 Emma Foster took her own life with an overdose of drugs at the age of 26. In Rome for Cardinal Pell's evidence, Anthony and Chrissie Foster says 'my daughters were raped by a 60-year-old priest hwne they were five, I think he's got a of questions to answer ... what he did or didn't do when he was rising up through the Catholic Church' Australian Catholic church abuse victims who are in Rome along with Chrissie and Anthony Foster, who said that Cardinal Pell may now wish he'd gone home to give evidence because the presence of so any victims in Rome had brought ' international attention' to his testimony When the Fosters met with Cardinal Pell (above) to discuss the rape of their preschool daughters by Father O'Donnell, he showed a 'sociopathic lack of empathy' and told them to 'take us to court' which they did George Pell, pictured in his cardinal's robes in Sydney in 2011, was the auxiliary bishop governing Father Kevin O'Donnell when the paedophile priest was systematically raping children in a rampage which lasted 50 years The Foster eventually sued the Catholic Church, which later admitted it had known Father O'Donnell was a child abuser. Instead of sacking O'Donnell, the Melbourne archdiocese retained him in parish work until he retired at the age of 75 in 1992, and given a tribute by then Archbishop of Melbourne Frank Little. The archdiocese conferred on him the distinguished title Pastor Emeritus, which means 'retired with honour'. Broken Rites exposed the church's cover-up of O'Donnell. In 1995, he pleaded guilty to child-sex crimes and was jailed. But O'Donnell was honoured after his death in 1997 by priests at a church funeral and his remains were interred among the graves of fellow priests. Little girls lost: Katie (left) and Emma Foster as young girls, already the victims of rap by their parish priest Father Kevin O'Donnell, whose paedophilia was known by church officials, and before the abuse took its terrible toll on their lives In loving memory: Emma Foster, who took her own life at the age of 26, two decades after she was first raped by her parish priest Father O'Donnell, who left broken lives and incalculable damage to children in his wake According to the network exposing Catholic Church sexual abuse,Broken Rites, George Pell praised the work of Father O'Donnell when Pell was auxiliary bishop to the southern suburbs of Melbourne which included O'Donnell's Oakleigh parish. Broken Rites obtained a video tape of a confirmation ceremony, in which Pell told parishioners, 'I would like to congratulate Father Kevin [O'Donnell] and Father Michael for all the work they are doing here. Sexual monster: The abuser, Father Kevin O'Donnell (above) raped children in Catholic parishes across Victoria unchecked for 50 years 'It is obviously a great and strong parish with a proud Catholic tradition, and I know you will work to maintain this just as your priests do, and I look forward to many, many more years of work from Father ODonnell in the church here.' Two years ago, Anthony and Chrissie Foster told a Victorian inquiry into how churches handled child sex abuse that they later met Cardinal George Pell to discuss their daughters' abuse. The Fosters said Pell had shown a 'sociopathic lack of empathy' when he met them, and challenged them 'if you don't like what we are doing, take us to court'. The Fosters won large payouts for the death of Emma and for Katie's permanent physical disability. In Rome on Monday, Anthony Foster said he believed Cardinal Pell when he said he was too unwell to travel back to Australia to give evidence. But he said Pell's insistence on staying in Rom had attracted 'international attention' which his giving evidence would otherwise not have had. Mr Foster said he hopes Pell would be able to shed light about what he knew of the Catholic Church's sexual abuse in Ballarat and Melbourne. The cardinal has previously denied any knowledge of its existence. 'We hope he would experience something like the same conditions as if he was giving evidence back home,' Mr Foster told 2UE radio from Rome. 'It was what he wanted to do.I want him to use his power and influence to change the way victims are treated by the church in Australia.' A couple who looked after what they believed was a stray dog claim they are now the victims of a campaign of harassment to take their pet away from them. Kennel workers phoned Tracy Minor in November to inform her that her beloved dog Mickey had been found after four years. However the 46-year-old was later told she could not have her pet back - because another family was now the rightful owner of the dog. Dean and Teresa Moore have been caring for the animal since 2014, and claim they are now being harassed by Mrs Minor. The two families are now locked in a bitter row over the pet dog and are set to take the matter to court. Dog lover Tracy Minor (left) is taking the Moore family to court because council officers allowed them to keep her 500 pedigree dog (right) Officials found the 500 lhasa Apso dog wandering the streets last November, just two miles from where he went missing in 2011, and traced him back to Mrs Minor through his microchip. However the council said the Moore family were the rightful owners, despite Mrs Minor having the documentation proving she bought the pedigree in 2007. Mrs Minor said the dog went missing from her ex-husband's back garden in June 2011 and despite putting up lost posters, scouring the streets and notifying the local dog kennels and police, she had no luck finding Mickey. But Dean and Teresa Moore, both 46, claim they are the real victims. Mrs Minor had bought the dog for her daughter Georgia (pictured together) but it went missing in 2011 Mr Moore said his wife Teresa's uncle had found the dog as a stray, without a collar or a tag, and put posters up, advertising it as lost. However when no-one claim forward to claim it Teresa's uncle kept the dog. But when he had to move out of his house, he could no longer keep it so Teresa and Dean stepped forward. They said they were prepared to fight tooth and nail to keep the dog - which they have renamed Quincy. He got out in November and we didnt know he was chipped, Mr Moore told MailOnline. The pair were told Quincy had been taken to kennels but they couldnt have him back as his microchip was registered to another address. It later emerged that, after he went missing, the lhasa apso dog had been found by another family, who had spent the past two years looking after him. The two families are now locked in a bitter war over the pet But then we got a phone call telling us we could collect the dog, added Mr Moore. We had to pay the kennels. Then on January 27, we got a phone call from police telling us we had stolen the dog. Weve done everything by the book. We will go to court, we will stand there, and we will fight for our dog. The council has said we are the legal owners. He is well looked after and well cared for, and completely spoiled. Our names have been dragged through the mud. Tracy Minor refuted any claims of harassment, saying she had tried to phone the couple on one occasion to discuss the matter, and had written them a letter pleading for the return of her dog. She has now started legal proceedings in a bid to get her family dog back. They will receive a latter from my solicitor, said Mrs Minor. They have even tried to change my dogs micro-chip. I think they are panicking. I just want my dog back, and I am going through the right channels to get him.' Mrs Minor added: 'I know the other family have been looking after him but he's my dog. I am baffled by the council decision. What's the point of having dogs microchipped if people just ignore the system? 'When Mickey disappeared in 2011 he had a collar with my number on it. I don't believe enough was done at the time to find us. I think they purposefully have kept my dog. 'They shouldn't be able to get away with taking my property.' Gedling Borough Council confirmed it had no record of the dog being reported as found in 2011. A spokesman said: 'Based on the welfare of the animal, we made a decision to return it to the person who could reasonably show that they were the most recent owner. 'We facilitated for the two parties involved to discuss the matter and are satisfied that, under uncommon circumstances, we've taken the correct action. 'The ownership of the dog is now a civil matter between the people involved.' It had been feared Meldrum may have needed an arm amputation after fall Music legend also discussed his life-threatening fall in Thailand last month Meldrum, 73, spoke about his drinking habits and life on Sunday Night Music legend Molly Meldrum has revealed he gave up drinking vodka after a life-threatening fall in Thailand. There were grave fears the 73-year-old could have become a paraplegic or been forced to have his injured arm amputated after he tumbled out of a taxi in Bangkok last month. Meldrum, who hosted the smash hit music show Countdown, broke into song when telling Channel Seven's Sunday Night he hasn't had a drink of vodka for six weeks. Scroll down for video Music legend Molly Meldrum has revealed he gave up drinking vodka after a life-threatening fall in Thailand 'I'm doing a cover version of a song that was so big way, way back, and mine goes, 'I can see clearly now the vodka's gone',' the iconic host said. 'I enjoy life, and now I'm going back to one of my first great loves, back into record production. That's the thing I enjoy the most.' Meldrum also said he hadn't been drinking at the time of his fall in late January. 'I hadn't been drinking (when I fell), that was the most amazing thing. After that I definitely wanted some drink because the pain was just ridiculous,' he told Channel Seven. Meldrum (right) spoke to Channel Seven's Melissa Doyle (left) for an interview on Sunday Night Meldrum, who hosted the smash hit music show Countdown, broke into song when saying he hasn't had a drink of vodka for six weeks Despite having dislocated his shoulder after the accident in Thailand, Meldrum was happy he did not have to undergo another back surgery In the wide-ranging interview, Meldrum also spoke about his sexuality, which was highlighted in a recent mini-series about his life. 'In my mind I was never in the closet, I was out there somewhere,' he told Sunday Night. 'No (I wouldn't have called myself a proud gay man 40 years ago). It wouldn't have been accepted back then, I'm not even sure that my family would have accepted it. 'It's a tough world at there no matter what, no matter how time has changed and social issues have changed, it's hard for someone that's a bit different.' 'I'm doing a cover version of a song that was so big way, way back, and mine goes, 'I can see clearly now the vodka's gone',' the beloved host said Meldrum is seen in a wheelchair after he took a life-threatening fall in Thailand last month The 73-year-old also backed the push for marriage equality in Australia, saying he thinks current laws should change. 'I think it should be legal, yeah very much so,' he said. 'It's not my thing to get married but I think it should be.' Meldrum later revealed he has asked Sir Paul McCartney to perform 'The Long and Winding Road' at his funeral. The charismatic host has been a star in Australia for almost five decades, since getting his first break with Go-Set in 1966. He became host of Countdown in 1974 and held that position until 1987. There were grave fears the 73-year-old could have become a paraplegic or been forced to have his injured arm amputated after he tumbled out of a taxi in Bangkok Explosive: A new book based on exclusive interviews with military chiefs, civil servants and Cabinet ministers reveals Mr Blair decided early in 2002 on the need for regime change to tackle Saddam Hussein The devastating truth about how Tony Blairs deceit over Iraq cost British troops their lives is laid bare today. An explosive new book based on exclusive interviews with military chiefs, civil servants and Cabinet ministers reveals Mr Blair decided early in 2002 on the need for regime change to tackle Saddam Hussein. But he froze out, or kept in the dark, his Chief of Defence Staff, Cabinet Secretary, Foreign Secretary, Defence Secretary and most of the Cabinet. The former Prime Ministers deception means the military were refused permission to begin proper planning because he was pretending to be an honest broker seeking a peaceful solution. As a result, British soldiers died because of a lack of sufficient body armour and equipment when the war began. The Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Mike Boyce, warned the then PM that his position was crazy, but Mr Blair told him: Well, thats how it is. Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon also appealed to Mr Blair, saying: We need to order machine-guns, body armour and other equipment. No, he replied. Ive got to keep the UN negotiations [with Saddam over allowing weapons inspectors to enter Iraq] going and I cant act as (an) honest broker if its clear were planning to go to war. The extraordinary story of how Mr Blair dragged Britain to war in Iraq is detailed in a biography by acclaimed investigative journalist Tom Bower, serialised in the Mail this week. It will heap further pressure on Sir John Chilcot, whose own inquiry into Iraq is yet to be published six years after it began. Bowers biography, Broken Vows, reveals how, in the build-up to war, Mr Blair: Excluded top officials at the MoD from key meetings depriving the Government of the departments decades of expertise; Kept his plans hidden from most of his Cabinet and senior civil servants because he did not want his true intentions to leak out; Ignored pleas to make proper plans for post-war Iraq, saying the Americans have it all sewn up Tried to get rid of Admiral Boyce on the eve of war but was forced to back down; Brushed aside warnings from the military that Iraq could turn into a Vietnam-style catastrophe; Told MI6 head Sir Richard Dearlove to bring raw intelligence straight to him as he tried to bolster the case for regime change; Told Sir Richard, who helped compile the notorious dodgy dossier on Saddams non-existent weapons of mass destruction: Richard, my fate is in your hands. Bowers account is the most comprehensive ever written of Mr Blairs conduct in the build-up to a war which cost the lives of 179 British troops. It tells how repeated requests by Cabinet ministers for papers on Iraq were ignored. Terrifying: British soldier prepares to jump from a burning tank which was set ablaze after a shooting incident in Basra Crucially, it comes ahead of the Chilcot report which to the fury of grieving relatives has yet to be released, despite beginning work in 2009. Bower reveals that, within hours of the 9/11 attacks on America in 2001, an excited Mr Blair told ministers and officials: We shall support America in anything they do. In November 2001, Mr Blair now a multi-millionaire was already asking Whitehall aides to produce a policy paper on Iraq, sowing the seeds for invasion. In March 2002, Mr Blairs adviser David Manning briefed the British Ambassador in Washington, Sir Christopher Meyer, that the then PM favoured regime change and failure wasnt an option. Yet, at a Cabinet meeting on March 7, Mr Blair spoke only of bombing Iraq. Andrew Turnbull, who was about to take over as Cabinet Secretary, said: I wouldnt call it a lie. Deception is the right word. You can deceive without lying, by leaving a false interpretation uncorrected. In July 2002, Mr Blair also denied to Parliament that any decision had been taken. But in private, he had committed Britain to war, Bower writes. In September 2002, Mr Blair wrote a note ahead of a telephone conversation with President Bush which said: We will be with you come what may. Mr Manning told him: You cant say that because youre committing the British Army to an invasion which no one else knows about. Mr Blair was unmoved. Most catastrophic was his decision not to allow the military to begin planning for invasion. Bower points out that British soldiers would later die because of the lack of body armour. Rose Gentle, whose 19-year-old son Gordon was killed by a roadside bomb in Basra in June 2004, said: This is further evidence of what we have said all along that Blair lied to us from the start and it cost our sons and daughters their lives. Inquiry: Tony Blair, addressing the Chilcott Inquiry, where the former PM explained his reasons for the invasion He was so desperate to go to war that it meant many of our troops didnt have the correct kit. It is disgusting. Another shocking insight concerns a meeting in mid-November 2002, when three Middle East experts were invited to No 10 to describe what would happen if Saddam fell. Mr Blair told them: Dont tell us not to invade, because we must and will. The Government finally went public with its plans in January 2003 when Mr Hoon announced that 26,000 troops and a fleet were being sent to the Middle East. The invasion began barely two months later. A spokesman for Mr Blair said last night: None of these allegations are new. All were extensively covered and rebutted in evidence to the various inquiries. This is simply an attempt to twist the facts to fit the authors pre-determined agenda. Chris Casey Lance Sergeant Casey, 27, pictured with wife Tanya, was killed when his Snatch Land Rover was blown up by a roadside bomb in August 2007. Ministers had ignored pleas by military chiefs to axe the poorly protected vehicles nicknamed mobile coffins because of their vulnerability. Steven Roberts A shortage of body armour was blamed for the death of Sergeant Roberts, 33, who was the first British soldier killed in action in Iraq in March 2003. Sgt Roberts, a tank commander, was shot dead after his commanding officer ordered him to hand his body armour to a colleague. Russell Aston Corporal Aston, 30, was one of six Red Caps murdered by a mob at a police station in Majar al Kabir, near Basra, in 2003. The Royal Military Policemen were cornered by hundreds of locals and executed. Their killers have never been brought to justice. An inquest heard evidence that the soldiers had too little ammunition, old radios and no satellite phone to summon help when they were ambushed. Gordon Gentle Changes will be implemented on Sunday, just one day after announcement Disney says changes will 'help spread out visitation' as demand grows Disney is introducing a price hike at its theme parks in Orlando, Florida, and Anaheim, California, charging as much as 20per cent more during the holiday seasons and some weekends. Tickets will be categorized into value, regular, or peak tiers in an attempt to redistribute visitors, as demand for the parks has grown and posed an overcrowding problem. The changes, which were announced on Saturday and will go into effect on Sunday, will differ at various locations. Disney is introducing a new pricing structure in its Florida and California theme parks that categorizes tickets into value, regular and peak prices At Disney World in Florida, value prices at the Magic Kingdom will remain the same at $105, while regular and peak tickets will cost $110 and $124 respectively At Disneyland in California, value tickets, which are usually in effect during weekdays, will be $95, a drop from the previous single-day tickets costing $99. Regular tickets will cost $105, while peak tickets during spring break, summer weekends and December, will cost $119. At Disney World in Florida, value tickets at the Magic Kingdom will remain the same price at $105. Regular tickets will increase to $110, and visitors will pay 18per cent more during peak periods, with prices at $124. Epcot, Hollywood Studios and the Animal Kingdom will charge $97 for value tickets, $102 for regular periods and $114 during peak times. Disney is trying to respond to a growing number of visitors Thomas Smith of Disney Parks said the change is a way to address the growing demand while adhering to its 'unwavering commitment to exceeding the expectations of all our guests'. The different pricing categories will not be applied to multi-day tickets, although visitors will see an overall rise in costs. Four day tickets will cost $20 more at $325, and 10-day tickets will cost $400, up from $365. The changes take effect starting Sunday. The president of International Theme Park Services, Dennis Speigal, told the Orlando Sentinel that Disney is simply acting on principles of supply and demand. He said: 'Disney and Universal, they can say, "It's $100? We're going to make it $120." 'Those people are still going to come, still going to pay it, but we can raise the pricing because we know they're coming.' Disney set records in domestic park attendance during the last financial quarter, which saw an increase of 10 percent compared to the previous year. It also recorded a seven percent increase in 2014 compared to 2013. The Magic Kingdom, which sees a total of about 20million visitors each year, was forced to turn people away during Christmas because it was at full capacity. Disney is capitalizing on the success of several franchises, and the theme parks are expanding new areas based on Avatar, and the Star Wars and Toy Story franchises. Those on the East Coast may have enjoyed their first real taste of spring Sunday but are being warned to prepare for wind, rain and snow to return next week. While the weather is due to remain mild and sunny through Monday, by Tuesday and into Wednesday a storm will pull in colder and wetter air, possibly causing thunderstorms. Snow is also due to blanket the area around the Eastern Great Lakes including Detroit and Cleveland on Tuesday and Wednesday, with a wintery mix for the likes of Pittsburgh and Syracuse. Scroll down for video Heavy rain and high winds are expected across much of the East Coast on Tuesday into Wednesday next week, drawing in colder air which could mean a return to snow on Friday (file image) Cities from New York down to Richmond, Virginia, are forecast for a wintery mix on Friday, with rain sleet and snow all possible as temperatures fall back into the mid-thirties (file image) While the precise track of the storm is not yet clear, snow is likely for Erie, Pennsylvania; Buffalo and Syracuse, New York; and Burlington, Vermont, AccuWeather reports. Several inches of snow can accumulate from northwestern Pennsylvania to western and northern New York state and part of northern New England. Roads will become slippery and snow covered in the swath from Erie, Pennsylvania, to Burlington, Vermont. This includes portions of Interstate 79, I-80, I-81, I-86 and I-90. In this same area, the clinging nature of the snow could weigh down tree limbs and cause sporadic power outages. Snow will be largely confined to the Eastern Great Lakes on Tuesday, with a wintery mix of rain and sleet for places such as Pittsburgh, with the Eastern Seaboard hit with rain Two inches or more of snow is likely between Monday and Tuesday night in some places, before the winter weather creeps further south again towards the end of the week A strengthening area of low pressure across the South could bring more severe storms to areas from east Texas to Georgia, including places hit by tornadoes last week Depending upon the speed of the arrival of colder air farther east, there could be a couple of inches in parts of northern West Virginia, western Maryland, southwestern and northeastern Pennsylvania, central New York state and central New England. Slippery roads could develop over the higher elevations and on bridges and overpasses in this zone. If the storm shifts further to the east it will mean snow pushing further south into those states, though the wintery weather is not expected to reach the Eastern Seaboard until Friday. Temperatures, which peaked in the low sixties in cities Sunday, are expected to fall back into the mid-thirties by Friday, with snow possible from New York City down to Richmond, Virginia. Conditions are expected to remain mild for most of the East Coast through Monday before the storms arrive (pictured, a man enjoys the sun in the borough of Queens, New York, on Sunday) While it may have felt like spring had arrived for much of the eastern United States on Monday, conditions are expected to worsen throughout the week (pictured, people enjoy the sun in Tennessee Sunday) The South will likely see thunderstorms on Wednesday with the possibility of the storms turning severe from eastern Texas to Georgia. News of more severe weather will come as bad news to both Tennessee and Georgia, where authorities are still clearing up after a series of tornadoes struck last week. A security guard has been sexually assaulted by an older man who complimented the 18-year-old on his body as he left a store at a shopping centre. The unknown older man approached the security guard working at the entrance of a store in a South Morang shopping centre in outer-north Melbourne on Tuesday last week. Police said the older man had complimented the 18-year-olds body and touched his waist as he entered the store, and sexually assaulted the security guard as he exited the store shortly after. Police have released an image (pictured) of a man they believe can assist with their inquiries The older man then quickly walked away as he left the shopping centre on McDonalds Road shortly after 7pm. The older man was unknown to the security guard, from Doreen. Detectives have released an image of a man they believe can assist with their inquiries. Advertisement A Jewish man who witnessed the violent clash between a group of Ku Klux Klansmen and counter-protesters has recounted how he helped two of the KKK members get away from a further beating. Brian Levin, director of California State University, San Bernardino's Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism, ended up standing in between the Klansmen and the crowd of angry protesters as he tried to stem the escalating violence on Saturday at Pearson Park in Anaheim. He said he tried to intervene when 'all hell broke loose,' using his body to get between counter-protesters and Klansmen, shouting 'Do not hit them! Do not hit them!' until officers were able to reach the scene. Scroll down for video A Klansman, who would later be saved by a Jewish bystander, and a protester are seen above as they fight for an American flag as violence escalated on Saturday in Pearson Park in Anaheim where the KKK had planned a rally Above one of the Klansmen, Grand Dragon Bill Quigg, is seen falling to the ground after being shoved by a counter-protester. Several counter-protesters were taken into custody after stomping two KKK members on the ground, police said Brian Levin, director of California State University, San Bernardino's Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism, ended up standing in between the Klansmen and the crowd of angry protesters as he tried to stem the escalating violence on Saturday Levin (pictured left and on Saturday as he speaks to an office, right) said he tried to intervene when 'all hell broke loose,' using his body to get between counter-protesters and Klansmen, shouting 'Do not hit them! Do not hit them!' until officers were able to reach the scene 'I thought they were going to stomp these Klansmen to death,' the professor said. Levin was at the protest because he has been tracking the Loyal White Knights of the KKK in California and other Western states for years - which organized Saturday's planned rally and is a sect of the hate group that aims to raise awareness about illegal immigration, terrorism and street crime - particularly as their activity has increased in Orange County, according to OC Weekly. When he returned from getting tacos, he noticed a group of counter-protesters swarming an SUV that had its back window smashed out and two Klansmen getting attacked by the group. Levin, who said he saw no uniformed officers when the melee started, ran over to the scene and tried to help quell the melee, noting he 'helped two Klansmen get out of the way.' 'The protesters were going to tear these guys limb for limb,' he told OC Weekly. 'I don't know how long I could've held them back. Only one other guy tried to stop them. I've seen this before: You don't want a hostile crowd with a stationary target on the ground. Once you get a crowd going, it doesn't stop.' Levin added that he did not protect the Klansmen on philosophical grounds. 'They were two people on the ground, and I thought they were were going to get killed,' he said. Levin also said at one point as he tried to stem the violence he told the crowd: 'Dr (Martin Luther) King wouldn't approve this, please don't harm these men.' After pushing one of the Klansmen, Grand Dragon Bill Quigg, away from the crowd, Levin said he asked him: 'How does it feel that your life was just saved by a Jewish man?' Quigg replied 'thank you,' according to Levin. Counter-protesters scuffle with a Ku Klux Klansman in Anaheim, California on Saturday afternoon. Three people were stabbed, one of which was critically wounded, police said Paramedics tend to a counter protester who was stabbed after members of the KKK tried to start a 'White Lives Matter' rally at Pearson Park In this photo provided by OC Weekly, a stabbing victim receives first aid from an Anaheim Police Officer, at Pearson Park in Anaheim Levin then asked Quigg if he could understand why the counter-protesters were angry. KU KLUX KLAN'S HISTORY IN ANAHEIM, CALIFORNIA The KKK has a long history in Anaheim, California. In 1924, four of the five members voted to its City Council belonged to the Klan. At the time the city was overwhelmingly white but now has a majority of Hispanics among its roughly 350,000 residents. Around that time, nearly 300 Klansmen lived in Anaheim at the height of the KKK's power in Orange County, patrolling city streets in robes and masks. Once, a large KKK rally reportedly attracted 20,000 people to the city. In 2003, an eight-foot cross was burned outside of a black man's home in Anaheim Hills, which the FBI investigated as a hate crime, however authorities did not specifically link the incident to the KKK. In January 2015, packets containing fliers condemning the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. and supporting the Ku Klux Klan were left in the driveways of about 40 homes in Santa Ana, about eight miles south of Anaheim. The fliers opened with the heading 'On Martin Luther King Day, you are celebrating a communist pervert.' The bottom of the fliers stated they came from the 'Loyal White Knights of the Ku Klux Klan.' Nationwide, the number of active KKK groups increased to 190 in 2015 after falling in 2013 and 2014, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center, which tracks hate groups. The Klan, which was formed in 1865, had up to four million members in the 1920s, but its membership has dwindled to between 5,000 and 8,000 individuals today, according to the Southern Poverty Law Center. Although it has historically targeted blacks, the Klan has also launched attacks against Jews, immigrants, gays and lesbians. Until recently, it attacked Catholics as well. Advertisement Quigg insisted his group was not the Klan of the past before the conversation switched to the topic of Adolf Hitler, who Quigg described as a 'civil rights hero,' according to the OC Weekly. 'Then I asked him about the Holocaust, and he said it never happened,' Levin told the OC Weekly. 'This, after I saved his ass!' While Levin said he saw no uniformed officers when the violence started, Sgt. Daron Wyatt said police were definitely there and were engaged with people at one end of the fight, and called for additional resources to deploy to the other end. Wyatt noted the event stretched along an entire city block. Saturday's violence left three people stabbed, one of whom was critically wounded, in a scuffle between KKK members and counter-protesters, police said. Twelve people were arrested following the melee, including one Klan member who is accused of stabbing a counter-protester with a flagpole, Anaheim Police Sergeant Daron Wyatt said. Five members of the KKK group, four men and one woman, were arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon in connection to the stabbings. Four of them have since be released after video surfaced showing they were 'clearly attacked', Wyatt told Daily Mail Online. Seven counter-protesters, six men and one woman, were arrested on suspicion of assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury as authorities said they stomped on two Klan members on the ground. Police are now trying to identify a suspect who is wanted for suspicion of assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury. 'Even if the vast majority of our community disagrees with a particular group who visits our city we cannot stop them from lawfully gathering to express their opinions,' Police Chief Raul Quezada said in a release. 'Violence is not acceptable, and we will arrest anybody who assaults another person or commits any other crime in our city.' Anaheim Police said they were aware of both the planned KKK protest as well as the counter protest on Saturday. Among the eight in custody, which includes a juvenile, suspect Charles Edward Donner, 51, of San Francisco was arrested on assault with a deadly weapon and has been identified as the Klan member who who is accused of stabbing a counter-protester with a flagpole, according to police. The other suspects taken into custody include Nicole Rae Schop, 24, of Los Angeles booked on an elder abuse charge; Marquis DeShawn Turner, 20, of Anaheim charged with assault with a deadly weapon; Randy Omarcc Felder, 25, of Lakewood charged with assault with a deadly weapon; Mark Anthony Liddell, 26, of Los Angeles charged with elder abuse; Guy Harris, 19, charged with assault with a deadly weapon; and Hugo Contreras, 38, resident of Hawthorne charged with elder abuse. An eight person in custody is a juvenile who has not been identified, police said. Three people were wounded in the ensuing confrontation, noting the most seriously wounded of the victims was stabbed with a flag pole that had an American eagle finial on at the top. That person was taken to a local hospital's trauma center, where he was listed in critical condition, which was later upgraded to stable. Other victims, who are all believed to be counter-protesters, were stabbed or cut with a knife, according to Wyatt. A Klansman, left, uses an American flag to fend off angry counter protesters near a planned rally at Pearson Park In this scene from the scuffle, counter protesters appear to fight with a KKK member as he stabs an attacking protester. Blood splatters can be seen on the pavement In this photo a stabbing victim receives first aid from an Anaheim Police Officer after a small group of Ku Klux Klan members staging an anti-immigrant rally clashed with a larger gathering of counter-protesters, police said The event quickly escalated into violence and at least two people had to be treated at the scene for stab wounds after a Klansman drew a knife in the altercation He said the altercation took place as soon as several Klan members arrived at Pearson Park in Anaheim, about 35 miles southeast of Los Angeles, for a planned rally there. Several witnesses said a peaceful counter-protest had been under way for about three hours in the park a mile north of Disneyland when the Klansmen arrived in a black sport utility vehicle. The SUV pulled up and three men got out and began to unload signs when the group of about 30 counter-protesters ran over, yelling and throwing sticks, witnesses said. 'Three people were stabbed by the fire hydrant,' said Darren Simpson, 49. 'These Klan guys were fighting for their lives.' As violence continued to erupt, some of the protesters were seen kicking a man wearing a shirt that read 'Grand Dragon', before one of the counter-protesters was seen collapsing on the ground, bleeding. He was crying that he had been stabbed. A counter-protester is pictured left as he appears to attack a Klansman. Anaheim police released a picture of the suspect, pictured right, who is wanted for suspicion of assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury Twelve people were arrested following the melee, including one Klan member who is accused of stabbing a counter-protester with a flagpole, Anaheim Police Sergeant Daron Wyatt said A Klansman who was handcuffed told a police officer that he 'stabbed him in self defense,' according to the Los Angeles Times. Chris Barker, who identified himself as the 'imperial wizard' of the Loyal White Knights of the KKK, said his members were defending themselves during a peaceful anti-immigration demonstration when violence broke out. He added: 'If we're attacked we will attack back.' Witness Kobe Sato, 18, told the Times that a crowd surrounded the Klan members when they showed up at the park and started displaying Confederate flags. Levin said he was next to the man in the Grand Dragon shirt when protesters attacked the Klansmen carrying weapons. 'As soon as they got out of their vehicle, immediately they were attacked by counter-protesters and this caused a melee down the block,' Wyatt said. The Klan members attempted to get back into the car as it sped off, leaving them behind, said Dion Garcia, 37. He said the angry mob chased the Klansmen down the block, yelling 'Get out of here! You're not welcome!' Counter protesters are shown above as they taunt an injured Klansman. The event quickly escalated into violence and three people were arrested following the melee Five members of the KKK group, four men and one woman, were arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon in connection to the stabbings. Four of them have since be released after video surfaced showing they were clearly attacked A bloody scene from the violent clash is shown above. Seven counter-protesters, six men and one woman, were arrested on suspicion of assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury as authorities said they stomped on two Klan members on the ground Counter-protesters are shown above as they chase a fleeing SUV reportedly driven by a KKK member. A witness said the angry mob of counter-protesters chased the Klansmen down the block, yelling 'Get out of here! You're not welcome!' 'It was crazy,' he said, adding: 'A lot of us were trying to break it up. This was not necessary, they should've just let the Klan protest. This is America, we have free speech.' During the brawl, one of the Klansmen was knocked to the ground and kicked, according to Levin. His arm was later seen bleeding. Levin noted prior to the brawl he saw no uniformed police at the park. Anaheim police had notified the public about the planned KKK protest Friday and said they would be 'monitoring the situation for any violations of law.' The department also said that while the group's signs and fliers might be controversial, they are protected by the First Amendment. Giovanni Namdar, 25, who runs an auto body shop near Pearson Park, said he saw people speaking passionately on a stage before the violence broke out. He later saw a swarm of police cars and helicopters flood the area. Namdar said he was stunned to learn about the KKK's presence in the area. 'It's pretty disturbing,' he said. Police officers are seen as they gather at the scene of the clash near Pearson Park in Anaheim. Police said they were aware of both the planned KKK protest as well as the counter protest on Saturday A KKK member is shown above as he appears to be in handcuffs following the violent clash Counter protesters hold signs near the planned KKK rally including one that reads 'Fight back against KKK' A stabbing victim is pictured above as he talks with police. Police said three people were wounded in the ensuing confrontation, noting the most seriously wounded of the victims was stabbed with a flag pole Members of the Klu Klux Klan involved in the stabbing sit on the curb behind a police cruiser following the brawl. Police noted other victims were stabbed or cut with a knife The Klan, known for their white robes and peaked hoods often worn by its members, has a long history of violence toward African-Americans, Jews and other groups, according the Southern Poverty Law Center, which tracks hate groups in the United States. The Klan was founded after the abolition of slavery in the U.S. South in the mid-19th century and has evolved in recent years into a collection of loosely affiliated or independent groups that share a political philosophy based on racial separation. The Southern Poverty Law Center estimated the group has between 5,000 and 8,000 members across the country, according to the Times. The KKK has a long history in Southern California, with Klansmen holding elected office in Anaheim in the 1920s. Most recently the KKK made national headlines when a former KKK leader, David Duke, said he backed Donald Trump for the Republican presidential nomination. The identities of the three people killed in Saturday's horrific chain-reaction car crash in Commerce, California, have been revealed - including two teens heading back from Disneyland. Brian Lewandowski, 18, and Michelle Littlefield, 19, were killed on the 5 Freeway Saturday when a southbound UPS truck being driven by Scott Treadway, 52, was struck shortly after midnight by a Dodge Challenger that police say was involved in a street-race. The truck hit the center meridian and was lifted into the air over the northbound lane, where it sheared the top off a Nissan containing Lewandowski, Littlefield and two other young adults. The truck then landed on a Ford Explorer and burst into flames. Treadway also died in the crash. Killed: Brian Lewandowski (pictured left), 18, and Michelle Littlefield (right), 19, were returning from Disneyland when a UPS truck was struck by an alleged street racer, sending over the midway and into their Nissan Wreck: The Nissan, seen at the rear-left of this photo, had its top sheared off by the truck, killing both teens. Two other young adults in the vehicle were hospitalized with critical injuries The driver of the Dodge Challenger, 35-year-old Dealio Lockhart, stopped after the crash and has been charged with vehicular manslaughter. The other alleged street-racer, who was driving a Dodge Charger, fled the scene. Witnesses told NBC News that the cars were driving at speeds of up to 90mph. Lewandowski and Littlefield, whose Facebook profiles say they both work for Six Flags Magic Mountain, were on their way back from Disneyland when the crash occurred, NBC News reported. The two other occupants of the Nissan were hospitalized with critical injuries. Speaking to the station, William Littlefield, Michelle's father, said: 'I'm sorry this happened to both of us. We would never want any of this. Michelle would be disappointed she was killed. But she would never hold any ill will.' And while he was 'absolutely devastated,' he said he and his wife would 'hold no strife whatsoever against the driver.' Dedicated: UPS driver Scott Treadway (pictured left) was a dedicated family man who took his job seriously. He was hit by a Dodge Challenger driving at speeds of up to 90mph, which caused him to crash Horrific: The Dodge driver, 35-year-old Dealio Lockhart, has been charged with vehicular manslaughter. Another driver fled the scene of the horrific crash. Several other people were injured, but none killed Lewandowski's parents, Jocelyn and Victor, said in a statement to the press: 'Brian was an incredible young man and every parent's dream for a son. We are absolutely devastated by our loss. 'Our hearts go out to the other victims and their families and our prayers are for the survivors' recovery. We are very thankful for the love and support of family and friends throughout this time.' NBC News also spoke to Scott Treadway's brother, Dana, who described the UPS driver as a hard worker who took his job seriously and was always there for his family, which included a stepson and stepdaughter. He said: 'He'd come and help you any time you needed it. He was always there for you, and we'll miss him.' He then turned away from the camera to hide his tears. And he was not at all pleased to hear that one of the drivers had fled the scene. 'He's a coward who needs to fess up,' he told the station. The arrested driver, Dealio Lockhart, faces vehicular manslaughter charges and is being held on $1million bail pending his court appearance on Tuesday. He has no prior criminal history. The Reverend Al Sharpton lead dozens of protesters in a #OscarsSoWhite boycott near the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, as the 88th Academy Awards began. And 3,000 miles away, director Spike Lee donned a tuxedo while attending the New York Knicks basketball game at Madison Square Garden in his own form of protest. On Sunday, Sharpton threatened larger protests against Hollywood and the Academy Awards if the ceremony doesn't improve diversity among its top nominees. Sharpton is lead the dozens of protesters who are marched and chanted for diversity in the film industry just blocks away from the theater. The Reverend Al Sharpton (center) speaks during a protest outside the 88th Academy Awards as a demonstrator holds up his hands Sharpton (R) holds up an Oscar statuette painted white while organizer Najee Ali reacts during a protest against the all-white slate of Oscars A protester shouts during a speech by the Reverend Al Sharpton outside the 88th Academy Awards American actor and director Spike Lee dressed in a tuxedo at a Knicks game in New York CIty in protest of the 88th Academy Awards Lee is among the actors and directors to boycott the 88th Academy Awards due to overwhelmingly white nominees Lee sits courtside with his wife Tonya Lewis Lee at the basketball game on the same night as the Oscars Sharpton told the protesters who joined him: 'This year, you had Straight Outta Compton. This year, you had Beasts of No Nation. This year, you had the Will Smith movie, Concussion. 'None of them are even considered for a top award. 'Were not saying who must win, but if youve been locked out of the process, then you are dealing with a systemic problem of exclusion. 'We are not going to allow the Oscars to continue. 'This will be the last night of an all-white Oscars. 'We intend to go to advertisers, we intend to mobilize all over the country. This is an insult to Americans of all races.' Earlier, he delivered a sermon Sunday morning at First AME Church, the oldest black church in Los Angeles. He addressed the lack of diversity among nominees for Sunday's Oscars, according to the church. Sharpton then held a press conference on the grounds of a mansion next to the former home of Hattie McDaniel. McDaniel won an Oscar for best supporting actress for her role as Mammy in 'Gone With The Wind' but movie executives had to beg to get her into the ceremony. She was then she was forced to sit at a small table far away from her fellow nominees. Actress Bette Midler also added her comments on the matter, tweeting: 'The Oscars are today! You know, the awards show where Leonardo DiCaprio is overdue but black people can "wait till next year". Actress Bette Midler gave her comments about the #OscarsSoWhite controversy on Twitter Demonstrators hold signs during a protest against the all-white slate of Oscar acting nominees AL Sharpton spent the day going around to churches and marching against the 'so-white' 88th Oscars Sharpton walks in a 'unity circle' of demonstrators holding signs during a protest outside the Dolby Theater Sharpton's National Action Network is staging protests in cities across the country, including Miami, Atlanta, Detroit, Cleveland, New York and Washington, D.C on Oscars Sunday. The group plans to 'take a unified stand for diversity, inclusion and justice in Hollywood,'' and encourage people to 'tune out the Oscars.'' 'Let's send a strong message that diversity in the film industry must be more than a hollow promise,'' according to an announcement posted by the organization. During the protest, Sharpton marched with organizers, spoke to the crowd and help up an Oscar statuette painted white. This year, Oscar snubs included Idris Elba, Will Smith, Michael B. Jordan in Best Actor categories. Neither Straight Outta Compton or Creed scored a nomination for Best Picture. Directors F. Gary Gray and Ryan Coogler didn't earn nods for the pictorial storytelling. Celebrities like Will and Jada Pinkett Smith, George Clooney are planning to boycott 2016 Oscars over only white nominees in major categories. While some celebrities boycott the award ceremony, others are absent and have instead flown to Flint, Michigan, for an event called #JusticeForFlint. Tony Blair denied deceiving the nation for 16 months after November 2001 over his intention for war By the time Tony Blair was called to give evidence to the Chilcot Inquiry in January 2010, it was clear from their treatment of the previous 83 witnesses that the panel was neither savvy nor well-briefed. Tanned and still looking youthful, Blair delivered a well-crafted narrative. He denied deceiving the nation for 16 months after November 2001 over his intention for war, or making any private deal with Bush during 2002. Mine was not a covert position but an open position, he said. When he denied having plans for war to a Commons committee in 2002, he said, he hadnt been lying. He had not decided, because he could not be sure that the UN route would not work. Chilcot failed to refer to a discussion on July 23, 2002, when Blair made it clear to the Defence Secretary, the Foreign Secretary, the Attorney General, the Cabinet Secretary and the defence and intelligence chiefs that he intended to go to war. In addition, private letters and recorded conversations between Blair and Bush, not to mention messages between Bushs senior advisers, all showed that the PM was committed to supporting an invasion the following year. The inquiry also failed to confront him about contradictions in the story of the Iraq dossier. Not one of its members asked Blair in public how he could reconcile John Scarletts private assessment that the intelligence on WMDs was sporadic and patchy with the PMs own foreword to the dossier. Why had the PM declared that the intelligence services had established beyond doubt that Saddam possessed WMDs? No one confronted him about his statement to the Commons that the intelligence was extensive, detailed and authoritative. No one asked about his failure to inform the Cabinet of his invasion plans during 2002 or why hed put so many lives at risk by failing to make robust plans for the post-war occupation. Not one the members of the Chilcot Inquiry asked Blair in public how he could reconcile John Scarletts private assessment that the intelligence on WMDs was sporadic and patchy At the end of the session, Blair was asked by Chilcot: Is there any final comment . . . you wish to add before we close? No, replied Blair. Behind him, the packed audience included the families of soldiers killed in Iraq. His silence provoked angry protests; theyd expected him at least to express regrets for the dead. Instead, the five members of the committee allowed Blair to set out a scenario based on selective hindsight rather than what hed said at the time. In Blairs revised version, the fruitless hunt for WMDs was irrelevant. If he hadnt gone to war, said Blair, Saddam would have started making them anyway possibly by 2010. The panel never pressed Blair to produce evidence for this. Nor did they seize upon his unexpected revelation that hed decided to go to war in January 2003, without UN backing if necessary. Yet that plainly contradicted his contention at the time that Britain would go to war only if the UN passed a new resolution. At the end of the session, he was asked by Chilcot: Is there any final comment . . . you wish to add before we close? No, replied Blair. Behind him, the packed audience included the families of soldiers killed in Iraq. His silence provoked angry protests; theyd expected him at least to express regrets for the dead. Blair was unconcerned. You get to a position, he told an interviewer, where the criticism you get, you just have to live with. In January 2011, Chilcot asked Blair to return to give more evidence. This time, the panel was better briefed, not least because theyd obtained letters and recordings in which Bush and Blair spoke of Britains commitment to the invasion. Why, the former PM was asked three times, was the Cabinet Offices Options Paper on Iraq never shown to Cabinet ministers? Why indeed? Blair simply denied that hed had anything to do with such an order. Then he insisted that from April 2002, the Cabinet had regularly discussed regime change and knew that war was an option. The facts contradicted him. Two days earlier, a senior official whod attended nearly every Cabinet meeting that year said that like most ministers he probably only became aware in January 2003 that Blair intended to invade. In addition, Cabinet minutes showed that Iraq had never been discussed between April 11 and September 23, 2002. All Blair could say was that the records must be wrong. No one dared ask him the crucial question: had he deliberately deceived the Cabinet about his intentions by refusing to allow a discussion on Iraq? In January 2011, Chilcot asked Blair to return to give more evidence. This time, the panel was better briefed, not least because theyd obtained letters and recordings in which Bush and Blair spoke of Britains commitment to the invasion There were other critical misses. No one asked him if hed put pressure on his Attorney General to change his advice about the legality of the war. And why wasnt the Cabinet shown the complete version of Goldsmiths final paper? Blairs memory increasingly jarred with the facts. He denied, for instance, ever contemplating that plans for post-war Iraq should be left to the Americans. Yet, again, the panel failed to confront him with the evidence of generals and Whitehall officials who specifically recalled him referring to his reliance on Washington. And that led to another delicate issue. During the four years after the war, the generals had complained repeatedly to Blair about insufficient money, men and equipment. Yet Blair told the panel: I cannot recall being told we needed resources and I said No. The testimony of the leading military figures between 2003 and 2007 directly contradicted him. No one put it to him that the increasing horrors across the Arab world had been instigated by the invasion of Iraq. Control: Sir Jeremy Heywood may be questioned by MPs tomorrow The full extent of Whitehalls push to control the EU referendum debate was revealed last night. Cabinet Secretary Sir Jeremy Heywood dubbed Sir Cover-Up had already sparked fury by ruling that Eurosceptic ministers would have restricted access to official papers on the EU. Now a leaked memo to low-level civil servants suggests the net is far wider than previously thought covering a huge swathe of government documents. It reveals the ban includes any papers that have merely a bearing on the poll. Sir Jeremy has also asked senior officials to root out ministers intending to campaign for Brexit but who have not yet declared this so the ban can be applied. Only those backing the Remain campaign will continue to get unfettered access to all government documentation. The Whitehall guidance raises concerns junior officials are being asked to police ministers knowledge of their own departments work in a wide range of areas touched by EU law. It also appears to explode Downing Streets claim that government business will continue as usual. Eurosceptic Bernard Jenkin, Tory chairman of a Commons committee, said it was an unprecedented constitutional change. He is expected to call an urgent Commons question today about the guidance likely to be answered by Cabinet Office minister Matthew Hancock. Farming minister George Eustice, who backs Brexit, said it would be very dangerous for the civil service to ban ministers from seeing documents on which they need to make decisions. Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith, whose department must work on David Camerons proposals to limit levels of child benefit for EU migrants, told the BBC: I think this cant possibly apply in the sense of us not knowing whats going on in the department. We are responsible for the department. In a set of questions and answers, officials are asked to consider what to do if a minister backing the Out campaign asks to see documents that arent directly about the referendum but may have a bearing. They are told ministers dissenting from the Government line cannot see papers which have a bearing on the referendum question or are intended to be used in support of their position on the referendum. A Whitehall source said: This means officials are required to assess the intention of ministers before determining whether to give them papers, to police our ministers and make judgments about to what extent documents have a bearing on the referendum... Ministers who have declared they want to leave the EU are responsible for a whole range of Europe-related policy... How can they make responsible decisions if officials withhold information which would inform their decisions? Many pro-Brexit ministers have specific EU responsibilities. Michael Goves brief includes the EU and international business, justice minister Dominic Raab oversees EU business, and Mr Duncan Smith and Priti Patel have responsibility for EU migrant benefits. Mr Eustice told the BBC: If theres a contentious issue emerging from Europe ... and there needs to be a decision as to whether we challenge that this is the sort of bread and butter decisions that ministers like me and a department like Defra have to take. Absolutely we have to have 100 per cent access to those sorts of documents. And it would be very dangerous for the civil service to get into a position of saying theres a type of minister who cant have access to this information. Otherwise, what youre really saying is Eurosceptic ministers cant be part of the Government in future thats a very dangerous scenario to get into. Mr Jenkin, the chairman of the Commons public administration committee, has asked Sir Jeremy to appear before MPs tomorrow to explain the restrictions. WILL MINISTERS NOW DODGE YET MORE QUESTIONS IN THE COMMONS? Ministers have been accused of dodging appearances in the Commons when they are called to answer urgent questions. The rate of Cabinet ministers showing up for urgent questions on issues such as strikes or terror attacks has plummeted in the past year. And it is feared the figures will fall further now senior politicians are campaigning on Europe adding to the growing paralysis in Westminster caused by the June 23 referendum. Tory MP Philip Davies pointed out at a private meeting of his party last week that backbenchers had been left to push the Governments legislation through the House, while David Cameron and other ministers have been out urging voters to choose to stay in the EU. Home Secretary Theresa May has only attended to answer one of the seven urgent questions directed towards her, six times sending junior ministers He also suggested that Eurosceptics could be granted time off to promote their side of the argument. Figures show that senior Government members have already missed 31 out of 44 urgent questions since May last year and are increasingly sending junior ministers to answer on their behalf. And while senior ministers came to answer the questions which are granted by Speaker John Bercow 40 per cent of the time last year, this has dropped to just 12 per cent in 2016, according to an analysis of Commons records. Home Secretary Theresa May, for example, has only attended to answer one of the seven urgent questions directed towards her, six times sending junior ministers. Labour frontbencher Jonathan Ashworth said that Cabinet ministers swerving questions... shows they are either too frightened to defend their record or indicates an arrogant disregard for democracy. A spokesman for Mr Bercow told the Independent on Sunday that which minister responds to urgent questions is a matter for the Government. Advertisement He said: This raises questions about the impartiality of the civil service, the direct accountability of ministers for the conduct of their department, and it leads to chaos about what are the agreed facts between different ministers on different sides of the debate. I believe it is unprecedented. Sir Jeremy has called for permanent secretaries to ask about ministers yet to declare which side they are on. One Whitehall insider said: It is outrageous the impression it gives is that pressure is coming down from the top for MPs to support the Prime Minister. Downing Street said most business will carry on as usual, insisting there is no ban on ministers who support Leave receiving government papers and that ministers would be restricted only on documents specifically related to the vote. The grandfather of murdered schoolgirl April Jones said he is backing Brexit to stop European judges meddling in the sentencing of Britains killers. Dai Smith, 63, said his family were delighted when the UK Court of Appeal rejected a European ruling that whole-life sentences for killers were a breach of human rights. If it had been accepted, it would have offered hope to the likes of Mark Bridger, who killed April in 2012 that he could one day be released. April, five, was snatched from outside her home in Machynlleth, Mid Wales, and murdered by Bridger in October 2012 Mr Smith, of New Quay, West Wales, said he would definitely be voting for Britain to leave the European Union in the referendum on June 23. We should have the right to have our own courts. We should be able to judge our people with our own country, he said. His wife, Linda Smith, 65, said the human rights of victims and their families were being overlooked by European judges. I know theres human rights, but my granddaughter had human rights as well, she added. April, five, was snatched from outside her home in Machynlleth, Mid Wales, and murdered by Bridger in October 2012. Mr Smiths comments echo those of leading judge Sir Francis Jacobs, a former advocate general at the European Court of Justice, who said European law would always prevail over national law unless Britain left the EU. Sir Francis told Radio 4s Today programme: If there were 28 member states each taking a different view of what European Union law should mean, then it would be impossible for the European Union to function. The grandfather of murdered schoolgirl April Jones said he is backing Brexit to stop European judges meddling in the sentencing of Britains killers So it does require that Union law should be recognised as prevailing over national law. Asked if he believed those who wished British law to be sovereign should vote to leave the European Union, he said: I think that is right, yes. There is certainly no alternative to the view that European Union law must prevail over national law. European judges only accepted Britains support for whole-life terms after the Court of Appeal made it clear that prisoners could be released in cases where there were exceptional grounds in 2014. It highlighted the fact that the Justice Secretary has the power to release prisoners on compassionate grounds in exceptional circumstances. Beatrice Carthy, whose stepson Edward Carthy was one of four men murdered by serial killer Peter Moore, agreed rulings from European judges should not take priority over decisions made in Britain. Moore was told he should never be released after his trial in 1996. She relied heavily on the record of her ex-governor, ex-president husband tonight, who was not present, as she made her pitch Hillary Clinton returned to the state where she and husband Bill's political careers began tonight as she whipped up votes ahead of Tuesday's presidential primary in Arkansas. 'It's important that you all know Arkansas runs deep in me,' Clinton told residents of her adopted home state, where she resided for 18 years and served as first lady. 'I am so grateful and so proud to have Arkansas connections.' Energized from her victory yesterday evening in South Carolina and her prospects this week in 12 contests on what is known as 'Super Tuesday,' Clinton shifted her focus from taking down Democratic opponent Bernie Sanders to degrading Republicans competing for the White House. According to a trio of new NBC News/Wall Street Journal/Marist polls, Clinton is leading in the key states of Georgia, Texas and Tennessee. 'They're selling the same snake oil,' Clinton said, referring to 'trickle-down' economics. Hillary Clinton returned to the state where she and husband Bill's political careers began tonight as she whipped up votes ahead of Tuesday's presidential primary in Arkansas Energized from her victory yesterday evening in South Carolina and her prospects this week in 12 contests on what is known as 'Super Tuesday,' Clinton shifted her focus from taking down Democratic opponent Bernie Sanders to degrading Republicans competing for the White House Clinton relied heavily on the record of her ex-governor, ex-president husband tonight, who was not present, as she pitched Arkansas Democrats on her own bid for the Oval Office. 'I believe, and it won't surprise you to hear me say this, that we need to get back to what worked when my husband was president,' she said, talking about the economy. Directing her comments at the young people in the audience who may not remember her husband's tenure, Clinton told them, 'Everybody's income went up' and more people were lifted out of 'poverty than anytime in recent history.' 'During Bill's terms the median family income in America went up 17 percent and the median African-American income went up 33 percent,' she said. But he was replaced by Republican George W. Bush, a president who said, don't regulate and 'keep your eyes off of Wall Street,' Hillary contended, 'And we know what happened, don't we? The worst financial crisis since the Great Depression. Republicans have a lot of 'nerve' to claim that the it was a 'slow recovery,' she said.' 'We would not have needed a recovery had we not been dumped in the ditch in the first place by the failed policies of the Republican administration.' Moving away from her husband's policies, Clinton again took aim at the 'barriers' she says are preventing minorities, women and other groups of Americans from succeeding. 'We need to be honest about that,' she said as she recommitted herself to reforming the criminal justice system and ending the 'era of mass incarceration' that her critics say her husband's 1996 crime bill directly contributed to. The former first lady of the state was right at home in Pine Bluff tonight, her third visit to Arkansas this election cycle, as she tested out a new version of her stump speech that contrasts the Republican Party's platform. 'There is going to be a very, very significant difference between someone like me,' Clinton said, 'and any one of the Republican potential nominees.' Equal pay for equal work, raising the minimum wage, climate change, a manufacturing renaissance, 'Everything I just said the Republican candidates disagree with,' Clinton claimed. 'We're gonna have a good debate. I do not know who they'll end up nominating, and I sure I hope I get the nomination of the Democratic Party.' Hitting the GOP for their place to repeal the president's healthcare law, Clinton said. 'Whenever I hear the Republican candidates - one billionaire, two senators - talking about it, I know that they have healthcare. 'I want to know what they're gonna do to help other people besides themselves,' she said, 'so hold them to a higher standard.' OVERFLOW: Clinton spoke to a small room of supporters at the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff. Those who didn't get to see her in person were offered the option to watch her on a big screen in the gymnasium as a consolation prize Sanders didn't entirely escape Clinton's critique tonight. The Democratic frontrunner continued to deride his free college program, and she again claimed he is a 'single-issue candidate.' 'I differ with my opponent who wants free college for everyone,' she said, because it's very expensive and billionaires like Republican front-runner Donald Trump can pay for their children to go to college. Clinton spent a chunk of her speech combating Trump directly and said, 'I am going to work as hard as I can if I'm so fortunate enough to be president to make sure the United States remains strong, that we are the leader in the world, but we're doing it by building relationships not by insulting' people and religions.' The Democratic candidate asked the audience to review the policies she's put forth on her website, because 'I want you to know what I will do. I don't want to make promises I can't keep.' 'I want you to know what I will try to do, how much it will cost, because I want you to hold me accountable,' she said. 'I don't think in a campaign you make wild promises, you insult everybody, and then people wonder then what does that person really stand for and how on earth would that person get anything done.' Clinton said her platform is 'rooted in the kind of progress that I know is possible.' 'We had a great victory in South Carolina last night,' she said to loud clapping, 'and there was a lot of hard work and person to person contact.' Clinton told her audience, 'That's what I need from you in the next few days. I want to be working with you to make a difference in your lives.' 'It starts on Tuesday, then it will go forward, if I am so fortunate to get the nomination,' Clinton declared. Bill Clinton was born and raised in Arkansas. He met Hillary in law school, and eventually thwey moved back to his home state. After an unsuccessful run for the House of Representatives, Bill was elected attorney general in 1976 and governor in 1978 at the young age of 32. Two years later he was defeated. But he wasn't out of office long. In 1982 he was re-elected and he kept the title until he won the presidency in 1992. When Bill Clinton exited the Oval Office, it was Hillary's time to shine and the couple moved to New York in advance of the ex-first lady's U.S. Senate bid. They still own a home there, as well as Washington, D.C. Tonight Hillary Clinton fondly recalled the time she spent in the South, raising daughter Chelsea and helping her husband run the state. 'To be in Arkansas, to be in Pine Bluff, to talk with friends neighbors and young people is such a special treat for me,' she said at the University of Arkansas-Pine Bluff event. 'I am so grateful to see a lot of familiar faces and even more to see so many young faces, so many students, because this election is really more about your future.' Set up in a small space at the university, the Sunday evening event quickly reached capacity and non-VIP onlookers were sent to an overflow room. Country Judge Dutch King, who is also on the ballot on Tuesday, was one of the lucky Clinton backers who made it into area Clinton was speaking at. 'She's for the people. She's a people person,' he told DailyMail.com. 'She always remembers Arkansas. King said, 'You never forget your home, and she was here for a long time.' Clinton was last in Arkansas in the fall, and came through once before that in the summer. With the state set to cast its ballots on Tuesday, however, Clinton made another quick pass tonight. The boss of Barclays who was sacked for being too slow to transform the bank is still being handed a 500,000 bonus. Antony Jenkins was ousted as chief executive last July after not improving Barclays quickly enough but he will be rewarded for work he did in the previous six months when the bank publishes its results tomorrow. The deal was last night branded 'a reward for failure' by Labour MP John Mann, a member of the Treasury select committee, who said it was 'business as usual' in the City. Antony Jenkins was ousted as chief executive last July after not improving Barclays quickly enough but he will be rewarded for work he did in the previous six months when the bank publishes its results tomorrow Mr Mann said: 'This is entirely a reward for failure. There is no other industry that would pay bonuses to people who have already been sacked. To everyone else this is quite extraordinary. It is like giving Ed Miliband a bonus after losing the general election. 'It is business as usual for the banks. There seems to be no limits that these people are prepared to go to when it comes to pay. I hope the shareholders revolt over it.' Mr Jenkins would have been eligible for a maximum bonus of 1.64 million for 2015 80 per cent of his total fixed pay of 2.05 million.The timing of his departure cut the maximum to 840,000 so the expected bonus of 500,000 suggests the Barclays board believe he did a reasonable job before he was fired. When Mr Jenkins left, the bank said he was 'eligible to be considered' for a pro-rata 2015 bonus. He had a 1.1 million bonus for 2014. The deal was last night branded 'a reward for failure' by Labour MP John Mann, a member of the Treasury select committee, who said it was 'business as usual' in the City Mr Jenkins would have been eligible for a maximum bonus of 1.64 million for 2015 80 per cent of his total fixed pay of 2.05 million One City analyst said: 'The view generally was that Antony Jenkins did a pretty good job in the first half of last year and people were surprised when he left.' Mr Jenkins is not the only bank boss to be in the money even after being fired. Royal Bank of Scotland handed ex-chief executive Stephen Hester 2 million in 2015, two years after he was pushed out by George Osborne. See more news on the US election at www.dailymail.co.uk/USelection2016 Donald Trump was mocked by a rival for having the worst spray tan in America as the race for the Republican presidential nomination got even uglier. The billionaire frontrunner was teased by Florida senator Marco Rubio for flying around America on Hair Force One. Mr Rubio added: Donald Trump likes to sue people he should sue whoever did that to his face. He also mocked Trump's 'small hands', echoing an insult leveled at the billionaire by Graydon Carter, the editor of Vanity Fair, who called him 'a short-fingered vulgarian'. The row came as Hillary Clinton took a major step towards securing the Democratic nomination with a decisive victory over Bernie Sanders in South Carolina. After Mr Rubio and Mr Trump traded insults on Twitter, the Florida senator held up his phone at an event in Georgia and asked the crowd: You guys wanna have a little fun today? The billionaire frontrunner, Trump, was teased by Florida senator Marco Rubio for flying around America on Hair Force One He mocked a series of mis-spelled tweets in which Mr Trump called Mr Rubio a chocker (choker) and said he had the honer (honour) of winning some polls. Mr Rubio said: Last night he was actually pretty calm after I punched him around a little bit. Hes learning how to spell, I guess. But hes flying around on Hair Force One and tweeting. As the crowd roared with laughter, Mr Rubio said: So he put out a picture of me having makeup put on me at the debate. Which is amazing to me, that the guy with the worst spray tan in America is attacking me for putting on makeup. At a rally in Arkansas, Mr Trump hit back by mocking Mr Rubio for being too stupid to get into the Wharton School of Business, his alma mater. He said: The Rubios of the world could not get into that school. They dont have the capacity. He said Mr Rubio had a fresh mouth and a little mouth... he goes bing, bing, bing, bing, bing, bing. He added: Hes Hispanic, which is fine. We havent asked for a recusal, which we may do. Texas senator Ted Cruz, another Republican presidential candidate, needled Mr Trump for not releasing his tax returns, saying: Maybe Donalds not as rich as he says. Mr Trump has a commanding lead in the polls going into Super Tuesday tomorrow, in which Republicans in 11 states vote. US Republican presidential candidate Marco Rubio greets supporters in Virginia On Saturday, Mrs Clinton beat Mr Sanders in the South Carolina primary with 74 per cent of the vote. The win gives her much-needed momentum heading into Super Tuesday where she leads Mr Sanders in nine of the 11 states where Democrats are voting. n Mrs Clinton backed Britains plan for air strikes on Libyan dictator Colonel Gaddafi because she didnt want the US to be left behind, it was reported at the weekend. She said the move to bomb Tripoli had a momentum of its own because it was being spearheaded by the British and the French. She feared America would be less capable of shaping this so persuaded President Obama to back the overthrow of the regime. Bristol Palin said her daughter Sailor looked just like her father Dakota Meyer in an Instagram snap - just days after he filed an emergency motion in court to see the little girl. The photo, which shows two-month-old Sailor in camo pants, a bandana and a bow headband, appeared on Bristol's Instagram account on Sunday. Bristol wrote in the caption: 'Looks exactly like her daddy!' Dakota asked a judge on Wednesday to rule immediately on a temporary custody agreement. Scroll down for video Bristol Palin shared this shot of daughter Sailor on Instagram, saying the little girl looked just like her father, Dakota Meyer. He asked for an emergency custody agreement earlier this week Bristol has been locked in a custody dispute with Dakota over their daughter, with the former Marine demanding joint custody. She contends that because Meyer lives in Kentucky, shared physical custody may not be 'practicable' and agrees to a 'decree of shared legal custody except that, due to geographic distance, in the event of a dispute, Palin shall have final say.' Bristol is also asking for child support and asking that Dakota pay expenses related to Sailor's delivery. On Wednesday, Bristol claimed her children have 'positive relationships' with their fathers, days after her ex Levi Johnston revealed that the pair had reached an agreement on custody of their seven-year-old son Tripp. 'These babies are my world and I will always be doing what is best for them,' wrote Bristol, posting a photo of herself with Tripp and Sailor. 'Every child deserves two loving parents, so I will continue to encourage that no matter what. I have never, and will never, keep them from having a positive relationship with their fathers.' She also cited Bible verse Matthew 5:11 in her post, which reads; 'Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me.' Former Marine Dakota (pictured) has demanded joint custody of Sailor. Bristol contends that because Dakota lives in Kentucky, shared physical custody may not be 'practicable' and agrees to a 'decree of shared legal custody except that, due to geographic distance, in the event of a dispute, Palin shall have final say' Dakota - who is the youngest person ever to be awarded the Medal of Honor - met Bristol in May 2014 during filming of Sarah Palin's Sportsman Channel show Amazing America. The pair got engaged during a Rascal Flatts concert in Las Vegas in early 2015, planning a wedding in his native Kentucky over the Memorial Day weekend. But less than a week before the ceremony, Bristol announced the wedding would not take place and instead of tying the knot she set off on an RV trip in Alaska with an exotic model. A month later she announced her pregnancy, although she initially refused to say whether Dakota is the father. She admitted that her second out-of-wedlock pregnancy was 'a huge disappointment to my family'. 'I do not want any lectures and I do not want any sympathy,' Bristol said. 'Everyone knows I wanted more kids, to have a bigger family. Believing I was heading that way, I got ahead of myself. Things didn't go as planned, but life keeps going on.' Bristol, pictured with Sailor in a previous Instagram shot, claimed her children have 'positive relationships' with their fathers, days after her ex Levi Johnston revealed that the pair had reached an agreement on custody of their seven-year-old son Tripp Her daughter, Sailor Grace, was born on December 23, 2015. Court documents seen by DailyMail.com last month revealed Dakota's bid for joint custody. The suit, filed in Kentucky and Alaska, had stalled pending the results of the paternity test, which now show Dakota is in fact the father. Dakota's family told Daily Mail Online they are 'hurt' over the doubt that has been cast and insisted that Meyer 'has a right to that child'. Sarah Palin slammed Dakota after he filed the court papers seeking custody of Sailor as well as child support from Bristol. Germany could reverse its open-door policy and close its borders to asylum seekers. Official plans, leaked to a German newspaper, suggest restoring all border controls. The policy would amount to an admission that Chancellor Angela Merkels invitation to refugees has been a disaster and it would deliver a death blow to the EUs passport-free Schengen zone. The policy would amount to an admission that Angela Merkels invitation to refugees has been a disaster Austria, Croatia and several other Eastern countries have already imposed quotas on the numbers they allow in. The Welt am Sonntag newspaper called Berlins proposals a clear threat to the EU. Sources close to interior minister Thomas de Maiziere told the paper he ordered officials to draw up plans to close the borders. For de Maiziere, the time of waving the refugees through is over, they said. Since the crisis began, Germany has accepted 1.1million migrants, with another 2.5million expected over five years. Yesterday, Hungarian prime minister Viktor Orban condemned the EUs failure to tackle the crisis and vowed to resist pressure to take more. Germany has accepted 1.1million migrants since the crisis began. The country could reverse its open-door policy and close its borders to asylum seekers He said a quota system could force the EU to disintegrate. Pupils born in Britain are being held back by a huge rise in others whose first language is from Eastern Europe, say experts. Children with Romanian as their mother tongue increased more than ten-fold while the total of non-native speakers soared by nearly 400 per cent from 51,955 to 190,506 in seven years, stretching teachers' time. Chris McGovern, chairman of the Campaign for Real Education pressure group, said: 'Most immigrant children are highly motivated and end up ahead of the British working class. This is the group that is being increasingly neglected.' Pupils born in Britain are being held back by a huge rise in others whose first language is from Eastern Europe, say experts There are 1.19million schoolchildren in England without English as their main language. Pupils whose first language is Polish more than trebled from 26,932 to 90,505 between 2008 and 2015, while those speaking Romanian soared from 1,387 to 16,616. Some of the biggest jumps were in Lincolnshire, Kent, Northamptonshire, Peterborough, Hertfordshire and Bradford, according to the Department for Education. London's highest rises were in Newham, Waltham Forest, Barnet and Ealing. There are 1.19million schoolchildren in England without English as their main language Secondary schools must take in 300,000 more pupils, an extra 91 each, in the next five years as a baby boom fuelled by high migration feeds through from juniors The Association of Teachers and Lecturers heard earlier this year that pupils with English as their main language were not getting a 'fair share' of staff time because of the extra needs of classmates from abroad. Oxfordshire teacher Joy Wilson told union delegates that many staff had little or no specialist training. Millions of households are being forced to pay unexpected gas and electricity bills of thousands of pounds because of mistakes by their suppliers. As many as 2.1million customers were sent late bills last year after providers realised they were being undercharged. The total cost was nearly 433million, research by charity Citizens Advice suggests. And individual bills can spiral into the thousands, despite the blame lying squarely with the energy companies. Energy Secretary Amber Rudd said: This is very disappointing. I reiterate to all energy companies that they need to put customers first and ensure this does not happen' Citizens Advice uncovered the case of a blind man who had been paying by monthly direct debit because he was unable to take meter readings. He was charged 3,500 when his supplier realised it had underestimated his usage for three years but claimed that it was the customers fault. Another customer was stunned to see a bill for 1,120 arrive out of the blue. Their supplier had not carried out a meter reading for five years and demanded full repayment of what it said was owed. Consumers can be back-billed for up to 12 months even if they are not to blame. If suppliers say the mistake was made by the customer, they can claim money owed over an even longer period. The charity interviewed more than 2,000 people and found 10 per cent had been hit by a back-bill. The average cost was 206 but one in six had to fork out more than 250. Back-billing happens when customers have been undercharged for their energy, often because their supplier has got an estimate wrong or failed to investigate a fault. The so-called big six energy suppliers British Gas, EDF Energy, E.ON, npower, Scottish Power and SSE are already under fire for failing to pass on falling energy costs. Wholesale prices dropped by a third last year, helping providers make a profit. But consumers will only see their bills fall by about 5 per cent in the latest round of price cuts. As many as 2.1million customers were sent late bills last year after providers realised they were being undercharged (stock image) James Daley, founder of consumer website Fairer Finance, said: This is a scandal. People budget for the bills they know about and dont see these extra costs coming. 'Often the elderly and vulnerable are worst-affected. If the energy company gets it wrong, thats its own problem it shouldnt be allowed to chase customers. Citizens Advice said there was a problem of back-billing across the board and it had dealt with cases involving most major providers. Chief executive Gillian Guy said: Customers shouldnt have to pay the price for suppliers mistakes. Energy bills are already so high that it adds insult to injury when companies go back to customers looking for more money after they got it wrong. This can be a huge burden on already-stretched finances. Energy Secretary Amber Rudd said: This is very disappointing. I reiterate to all energy companies that they need to put customers first and ensure this does not happen. 'Censored': Felix Ngole, 38, was expelled from Sheffield University A Christian student has been ejected from his university course for voicing his opposition to gay marriage on Facebook. Felix Ngole, 38, was expelled from Sheffield University after faculty staff decided he may have caused offence to some individuals. The postgraduate father of four, who was studying to become a social worker, has been told his actions affect his fitness to practise and was ordered to hand back his student ID and library card. Mr Ngole was reported after using his private Facebook account to express support for Kim Davis, a county clerk from Kentucky, who was jailed for refusing to issue marriage licences after the introduction of same-sex unions there last September. Mr Ngole argued that homosexual activity is against the teaching of the Bible, quoting a verse from Leviticus describing it as an abomination. Yesterday, he said he was appealing the universitys decision because the case had wider consequences for the freedom of religion and freedom of expression. Claiming he had been censored, he added: The university claims my views are discriminatory, but I am the one being discriminated against because of my expression of Christian beliefs. I wonder whether the university would have taken any action if a Muslim student who believes in Sharia law, with its teaching about women and homosexuality, had made moderate comments on his Facebook page. I dont think so. Following a disciplinary hearing, the student was told he had brought his profession into disrepute and breached personal conduct guidelines. A separate fitness to practise panel later concluded that he was entitled to his opinion about gay marriage but may have caused offence to some individuals. They said his comment would affect his ability to operate in the social work profession even though he was not yet qualified. Mr Ngole came to the UK from Cameroon as an asylum seeker in 2003 and has since gained two university degrees and worked as a teacher. If his appeal is unsuccessful, he plans to take legal action on human rights grounds against Sheffield University, which is one of 24 in the elite Russell Group of universities. He added: My beliefs about marriage and sexual ethics reflect mainstream, biblical understanding, shared by millions around the world. Simply expressing that understanding, in a personal capacity, on my Facebook page, cannot be allowed to become a bar to serving and helping others in a professional capacity as a social worker. Andrea Williams, of the Christian Legal Centre, said: He is not someone in a public position, but rather a student, who is entitled to express his views. There is no evidence that Felixs views impacted his work, or that he was not a hard-working student who should qualify in due course. Sadly, this is yet another case of Christians being neutered in the public arena, and of censorship of views. A spokesman for the University of Sheffield said she could not comment on individual cases. The case has parallels with that of Adrian Smith, a housing trust manager from Greater Manchester, who was demoted in 2011 when he opposed gay marriage on Facebook. A growing culture of intolerance at universities now means that some student unions have adopted safe space policies that allow controversial speakers be banned if they are deemed offensive. Historian David Starkey was removed from a promotional Cambridge University video over claims his views were racist. An off-duty New York City police officer was struck and killed Sunday morning by a driver on the New Jersey turnpike who then fled the scene, officials said. Officer Vincent Harrison died on the southbound lane near Newark International Airport in Elizabeth, New Jersey after he was struck at around 3am, New Jersey state police officials told Daily Mail Online. The 25-year-old officer had been with the New York City Police Department for 'not quite two years' and served with the 100th precinct in Rockaway Beach, Queens, a spokesperson with the NYPD said. Vincent Harrison, 25, died in a hit-and-run incident Sunday morning. The off-duty NYPD officer lived in Nassau County, police said The deadly crash happened on the New Jersey turnpike (pictured in a file photo) around 3am Sunday The deceased was a resident of Nassau County on Long Island, police said. The fatal crash happened after Harrison collided with another car and stepped out of his 2013 Chevy Cruze. A 2008 Infinity sped past Harrison's car, stopped briefly, and then left the scene, police said. 'We are deeply saddened to learn of the loss of one of our own, may you rest in peace P.O. Vincent Harrison,' the 100th precinct wrote in a tweet Sunday. A suspect was apprehended Sunday by New Jersey state police, NBC 4 reported. Harrison's colleagues tweeted their condolences Sunday morning A controversial scheme allowing prostitutes to seek out customers without fear of arrest could be scrapped following complaints. In the red light district in Leeds, sex workers can pick up customers on the streets legally at night. But residents and business owners in the Holbeck area have reacted furiously - saying Leeds is turning into a vice city under the new rules. Following an upsurge in opposition, officials from West Yorkshire Police and Leeds City Council will meet in April to review the project. In the red light district in Leeds, sex workers can pick up customers on the streets legally at night Local firms say their staff face harassment while used condoms and drug paraphernalia litter the streets. And complaints over the decriminalised zone increased after sex worker Daria Pionko, 21, was murdered in the managed area in December. Police no longer issue cautions or make arrests after 7pm for loitering, soliciting or kerb-crawling offences. But local businesses say it is wrong to assume they shut by 7pm and so are unaffected. Leeds resident, David Boyes, 72, said the city has had its reputation put on the line because of the scheme. He said: It has been bad for Leeds as a whole - it has been given a bad reputation and it is stopping the whole regeneration of the Holbeck area of Leeds. Businesses dont want this to be going on do they - with used condoms on the floor and people urinating on the side of their buildings. The prostitutes are supposed to be there from 7pm to 7am - but they arent. I drove down there with my wife on a Sunday afternoon and they were there in broad daylight. Theres used condoms all down the side of the road - you may as well call Leeds Vice City. The managed area went unnoticed when it was initially introduced in October 2014 following concerns that years of law enforcement had failed to address the issue of prostitution. It was made permanent after a 12-month pilot, with supporters saying public complaints had fallen and levels of trust between sex workers had dramatically improved. Flowers form a temporary memorial on Springwell Road where 21-year-old sex worker Daria Pionko was found with fatal injuries in the managed red light district in Leeds which is currently under review after complaints from the public Andrew Carter, lead Tory councillor at Leeds City Council, said: In my view the situation was getting out of hand, with a number of high profile incidents that can only be described as tragedies and concerns from businesses and residents alike about how the scheme was being operated and managed. If it is to continue I, and many Leeds residents, will need to be persuaded that it will be properly managed with a strong police presence and proper measures to ensure that litter and the impact on residents and businesses will be minimised. A spokesman for the multi-agency group Safer Leeds said the decision to carry out a review was taken after officials listened closely to the views of business owners and representatives in the community. A variety of work is currently being undertaken to improve and strengthen aspects of the project which have been raised as an issue, and these will continue to be assessed as part of the review. Advertisement New figures show the owners of Star Casino are not the only people to benefit from Sydney's controversial lock-out laws, with residential property prices surging in Sydney's Potts Point and Kings Cross. According to Domain, unit prices in the area for residential real estate surged 25 per cent in the first year after the lock-out laws were introduced, reported the Sydney Morning Herald. The statistics show that property prices for apartments in Potts Point sat at about $610,000 in June 2014. Although prices fell slightly in December 2014 to $601,250 they have continued to rise since, hitting $666,000 in June 2015 and peaking at $748,500 in December 2015. Scroll down for video This Potts Point apartment on Brougham Street boasts incredible Sydney harbour views from the balcony Former Real Estate Institute of New South Wales president and Gunning Real Estate founder, Malcolm Gunning, told the Sydney Morning Herald that residential real estate in Kings Cross now includes some of the most expensive properties in Sydney. 'That postcode is cleaning up and the restaurant market is kicking off,' Mr Gunning said. 'What's helped drive up the unit market is there's a lot of bed sits and one bedders in the area - they're affordable, so young first home buyers and investors are picking them up. 'What we're seeing now is single professionals and lots of young women, in particular, are buying in that Potts Point area because there's good transport and Macleay Street's booming.' The light-filled dining room and kitchen of the apartment has direct views of the Sydney Centrepoint Tower and the surrounding CBD The principal of Belle Property in Potts Point, Dean Norburn said the lock-out laws have seen a rise in investors looking to ride a wave of gentrification. He also said the demography of the suburbs remains diverse, with same sex couples strong in the area, young couples who work in the city and downsizers. Earlier this month, it was reported that Star Casino, which is exempt from Sydney's 1.30am lock-out, saw a 26 percent surge in net profit for the recent fiscal year - about $142 million. Profits were initially estimated to hit about $120 million. Star Entertainment Group chief executive Matt Bekier said the casino has had to put on all this extra security to keep the property tight since the lock-out laws began in 2014. Floor to ceiling windows accommodate as much natural lighting as possible into the Potts Point apartment Lush vines grow on the exterior of the lavish Potts Point apartment on Brougham Street A Victoria Street apartment in Potts Point: Unit prices in the area for residential real estate reportedly surged 25 per cent in the first year after the lock-out laws were introduced Perfect for New Year's Eve: Residential real estate in Kings Cross now includes some of the most expensive properties in Sydney A Wylde Street apratment looks onto the Sydney Harbour with panoramic views of the surrounding CBD A bedroom in the Wylde Street apartment: The principal of Belle Property in Potts Point, Dean Norburn said the lock-out laws have seen a rise in investors looking to ride a wave of gentrification The living room: Mr Norburn also said the demography of the suburbs remains diverse, with same sex couples strong in the area, young couples who work in the city and downsizers Kings Cross Road, Potts Point: Statistics show that property prices for apartments in Potts Point sat at about $610,000 in June 2014 The young activist whose death sparked the Tatler Tory scandal left a suicide note describing bullying, which was yesterday released by his parents. Elliott Johnson, 21, killed himself on train tracks last September after a bitter row with former parliamentary candidate Mark Clarke. In the note addressed to Mum and Dad, the activist described intense stress after the confrontation in which Mr Clarke, 38, threatened to destroy him. He also accused Mr Clarkes henchman Andre Walker who yesterday revealed he had been in a relationship with Mr Johnson of betraying him. Elliott Johnson (pictured left), 21, killed himself on train tracks last September after a bitter row with former parliamentary candidate Mark Clarke (centre) The tragic last message written by Elliot Johnson to his parents before killing himself He wrote to his parents: I love you so much I cant explain. I failed in life despite your help, for which I am very thankful. 'These past few weeks have been the worst of my life. I find myself on the work scrapheap. My choice is end it now or wait till the death of my career when the money runs out. EXCERPT FROM ELLIOTT'S NOTE Dear Mum and Dad, Well what can I say. By the time you read this I will no longer be here. Sorry. I love you so much I cant explain. I failed in life despite your help, for which I am very thankful. These past few weeks have been the worst of my life. I find myself on the work scrapheap. My choice is end it now or wait till the death of my career when the money runs out. I have also been involved in a huge political issue. I have been bullied by Mark Clarke and betrayed by Andre Walker. Now all my bridges are burnt. Where can I go from here? I am sorry it has come to this and hope you can recover after a time. I want you to be together and get over my death. The help you have given me is truly awe-inspiring. It is hard to put it into words. I love you so much. Never forget this. I love Harriet and Charlotte [his sisters] too. I will see you soon: fate cannot keep us apart for ever. I will see you on the other side. I love you. I love you so much yet I must make this decision. It is hard for me but the rest of my life would be a never ending torture. Thats how I see it. Love you so much and the rest of the family. Elliott xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx Advertisement I have also been involved in a huge political issue. I have been bullied by Mark Clarke and betrayed by Andre Walker. Now all my bridges are burnt. The release of the note came just days after it emerged that the young activist had battled depression for years and found it hard to come to terms with his homosexuality. A report prepared by British Transport Police for Mr Johnsons inquest, which opens this week, details how he had tried to kill himself three times as a teenager. In another note, the Nottingham University graduate described how his parents Ray and Alison had struggled with his sexuality. Officers suggested the fact he would not give his parents grandchildren left him racked with guilt. But Mr Johnsons father, from Wisbech, Cambridgeshire, yesterday said he had never argued with his son about his sexuality and had just wanted him to be happy. He added: It is a travesty for anyone to blame us or his past troubles for his death. There is only one place to look for the real blame: the Conservative Party. Elliott took his life because he had been picked on and bullied ... and let down by other organisations around the [party]. Mr Johnson met Mr Clarke, once tipped as a future minister by Tatler magazine, after joining his Road Trip campaign for young Tories. Mr Clarke was expelled from the party in the wake of the tragedy, but denies the claims against him. A homeopath has urged the public donate to her bank account instead of to cancer charities. Monika Milka complained of the millions of dollars donated to cancer charities and posted her bank account details to the Facebook page of her homeopathy business on Sunday, The Advertiser reported. From Gawler, a one-hour drive north of Adelaide, Ms Milka has previously been subject to an inquiry after telling a man with cancer she could cure him and giving him injections to 'kill the worms'. Monika Milka has posted to her bank account details to her Facebook page Monika's Entity and urged people donate to her homeopathy instead of to cancer charities One charity alone is proud to announce they raised $3.1 million dollars up to date for cancer research this year they are aiming for $4 million and more than likely get it, the post by Monikas Entity said. The Facebook page was deleted on Sunday, was then restored before it was quickly deleted again. Ms Milka told The Advertiser the post was a bit of a joke that was taken really serious. She then said its not a joke, but a bit of why isnt homeopathy research looked at? However, when the Monika's Entity page was later restored, Ms Milka denied ever speaking with The Advertiser. 'Just for the record I have not spoken to anyone at all.' She also wrote on Monday that she did not say she could 'cure'. Her Facebook page had reportedly claimed she could treat electrical shocks, seizures, car accident injuries and prevent breast cancer. Monikas Entity also reportedly claimed sunscreen led to cancer and said vaccines should be homeopathic. One charity alone is proud to announce they raised $3.1 million dollars up to date for cancer research this year they are aiming for $4 million and more than likely get it, the post by Monikas Entity said Complaints against Ms Milka have reportedly been made to Scamwatch. However, an Australian Competition and Consumer Commission spokesman could not confirm that to Daily Mail Australia for privacy reasons. A 2008 inquiry into bogus, unregistered and deregistered health practitioners said a man named Ross had been treated for cancer of the bile ducts by Ms Milka in 2005. She then said its not a joke, but a bit of why isnt homeopathy research looked at? Monika assured my husband that she could cure him and commenced treating him with all types of sprays, medicines and injections, Rosss wife told the Parliamentary inquiry. The many injections she gave to his stomach were to kill the worms that were causing the problem. Ms Milka allegedly charged more than $500 a week for the treatment. The inquirys report published in 2009 added that at least six people had presented with abscesses following mesotherapy treatment at Monikas Entity. She was ordered to cease the procedure. In 2011, Ms Milka was sued by nine people infected with bacteria during biomesotherapy procedures performed in 2008. Ms Milka is not registered with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency or Australian Homeopathic Association. However, on a post to her private Facebook page in July last year she claims to be registered and fully qualified. The National Health and Medical Research Council last year said there are no health conditions for which there is reliable evidence that homeopathy is effective. Homeopathy should not be used to treat health conditions that are chronic, serious, or could become serious. Ms Milka said they had 'no qualified credentials at all to be making any statements on homeopathy'. Oprah Winfrey has hit back at a magazine who embarrassingly mistook her for Whoopi Goldberg at the Oscars. Goldberg, who wore a black off-the-shoulder gown inspired by the frock worn by Bette Davis in All About Eve, revealed her tattoos running down her right shoulder. Total Beauty, a website posting makeup reviews and fitness tips, posted a photograph of Goldberg with the caption: 'We had no idea Oprah was tatted, and we love it. #Oscars.' The chat show host has now responded to the gaffe by saying 'we don't all look alike Jeeeze!' Total Beauty posted this photograph of Whoopi Goldberg arriving to the 88th Academy Awards, but mistook her for Oprah CBS anchor Gayle King posted this photo of her best friend Oprah, writing: 'We all love Whoopi goldberg but we don't all look alike Jeeeze!' It took them more than an hour to notice their mistake. They deleted the original post and issued an apology, but the #ThatsNotOprah began trending and people responded with humor, anger, and disbelief In a photo uploaded to Instagram by her best friend Gayle King, Oprah holds up the offending tweet with a puzzled look on her face, while sat next to King's daughter Kirby Bumpus, who has her mouth wide open in apparent shock. Captioning the photo, Gayle wrote: '@Oprah & favorite daughter watching #Oscars & seeing@totalbeautyeditors snafu! We all love@whoopigoldberg but we don't all look alike Jeeeze!' This year's Oscars had already been marred by controversy, with no black actors nominated for any awards. It took the company more than an hour to take down the tweet and issue an apology, but the gaffe had already taken on a life of its own, with Twitter users calling out the mistake and posting joke memes in response. The company wrote: 'We'd like to apologize to Oprah and Whoopi, as well as everyone we've offended. It was our error, and there are no excuses. We're sorry.' Stand-up comedian and writer for the Daily Show Travon Free wrote dryly: 'Oprah had no idea she was Whoopi Goldberg either.' A number of people took to social media to express their anger and disbelief, and the hashtag #ThatsNotOprah started trending. User @DCDiva28 wrote: '@TotalBeauty there is no way you can fix this or make it better. Insulted doesn't even begin to cover it! We don't all look alike!' Many people compared the mistake to Steve Harvey's epic fail during the 2016 Miss Universe pageant, when he accidentally announced the wrong winner. Twitter user @Blakk_Papi took the mix-up to absurd levels when he posted the same photo of Goldberg arriving at the 88th Academy Awards, and captioned it: 'Busta Rhymes @ the oscars tonight.' Others jokingly mixed up white celebrities in response. Vlogger Kid Fury took to Twitter, posting a slew of red carpet photos and intentionally mislabeled the white celebrities. In December, the Hollywood Foreign Press tweeted a photograph of America Ferrera's appearance at the Golden Globes nominations announcement and mistook her for Gina Rodriguez twice. Last month, The Hollywood Reporter mistook Kelvin Yu, who starred in Masters of None, for the Netflix show's writer, Alan Yang. The real Alan Yang responded with this brief quip: 'Same race, different dude.' A young mother who ate healthy and exercised 'died' from a heart attack just 14 hours after giving birth. Jackie Stripling, 33, died for four minutes when she gave birth to her son via c-section at Geelong Hospital in July 2013. And despite the birth being a dream come true - she says she lost precious memories including holding her baby boy for the first time. Jackie Stripling suffered a heart attack 14 hours after giving birth to her first child Archer, pictured here with her and her husband Grant, via c-section The young mother didn't think she could get pregnant - and had been trying to conceive for two years before Archer (pictured) came along in the second round of IVF When she woke up after surgery she asked for her son (left), but was surprised when she couldn't remember the actual pregnancy - or seeing him before. Mrs Stripling, her husband Grant and their son re-did the first family photo so she could remember She told Daily Mail Australia: We didnt think we would be able to have a baby. We had been trying to get pregnant for two years. We tried naturally for over a year and then with IVF, which took after the second round. Doctors think Archers birth is what caused the sudden coronary artery dissection or SCAD heart attack. 'They think it is associated through progesterone in pregnancy but that is really grasping at straws,' Mrs Stripling said. My whole artery had collapsed, and needed to be rebuilt. It was a case of right place right time, because if I wasnt in a hospital with an amazing cardiovascular surgeon at the time then I would still be dead today. The mother only took one photo of the forgotten pregnancy - moments before going into surgery to have her son delivered All of the heart attack pre-warning signs were there, but were dismissed because Mrs Stripling was a healthy and had never had any heart problems before. I had the chest pain and the left arm pain, but nurses said it was because of the operation I had just had. My husband (Grant) left the room I was in to take Archer to get a checkup and when he got back into the room I was dead, and had gone grey. He ran into the corridor screaming for help and told me two nurses came running and pressed the emergency button. He said it was like the scenes in the medical movies, he has never seen that many people rush to a patent in a hospital in his life. She had all the heart attack warning signs but medical staff put it down to the c-section surgery because she was young and healthy The medical staff were able to revive her and took her in for surgery immediately. The operation lasted for a few hours which her husband said felt like days. He was told by hospital staff that his wife may have sustained brain damage because she was dead for so long. They told him I might not know who he was or where I was because I might be brain damaged, she said. But when I woke up and knew who he was he knew it would be ok, he kept telling me it would be ok even when doctors said it might not be. She did have some memory loss though. She cant remember the nine months before her medical emergency. For months after the heart attack she was afraid she would die and have to leave her family I dont remember what it was like to actually be pregnant. I remember the moment we found out we were pregnant, and I remember having Archer inserted but the rest is all gone. 'I don't remember holding Archer for the first time, but I have a photo so that is really special to me. The mum managed to keep a pregnancy diary, which she is thankful for, so can look back and read her entries to know how her pregnancy was. her journey over the past two and a half years since the birth of her son has been difficult. I was constantly petrified of dying, my fear of death, and my anxiety consumed my life. I was always tired, I felt unwell and I was sore. And I didnt know what was caused by being a new mum, and what was from my heart surgery. She has now started exercising again - she was scared to at first because she didn't want to put pressure on her heart. She says running after her 'very busy' toddler is her main exercise She has now overcome many of her fears, and has even started exercising again, but admits being a mum is sometimes physical enough. At first I was so scared to exercise because of the pressure it would place on my heart, but my doctors assured me exercise was a good thing. She still suffers from chest and arm pain but her doctors say it has nothing to do with her heart. She is now aiming to change the face of heart attack in Australia. I want people to know that anyone can have a heart attack and need to know the warning signs. Heart attacks arent just something that happens to over-weight, middle-aged males. The scary thing is that even doctors have that view so if you have the symptoms go to the doctor and if they turn you away get a second opinion. I was young and healthy and it happened to me. Mrs Stapling has decided to tell her son about the heart attack when he is older Mrs Stapling and her husband are not ready to tell Archer about the heart attack. When he is old enough to understand we will tell him. It can be hereditary, even though it is unlikely. Archers birthday and the anniversary of his mothers death are on the same day, July 16 which is difficult for her. She describes her son as perfect and sometimes too busy. He is very busy, and really active, very loving, not shy and very very social. Mrs Stapling hasnt been in the hospital for anything other than a checkup in six months and is looking forward to her second chance at life. She is now working hard to raise awareness for heart attack symptoms, and to let people know it is not just overweight, middle-aged men who are affected They all beat life-threatening illness, or being shot, so it was fitting these four well-known BBC newsmen set up a Survivors Club. Nick Robinson, Frank Gardner, Andrew Marr and George Alagiah toasted the good news with blood orange Bellinis. The event was suggested a year ago by Mr Gardner, 54, the BBCs security correspondent, who was paralysed from the waist down when he was shot six times by terrorists in Saudi Arabia in 2004. His friend and cameraman Simon Cumbers, 36, was killed. Lunch: Four top BBC personalities got together to celebrate surviving brushes with death Former political editor Mr Robinson returned to Radio 4s Today programme last year after having chemotherapy for lung cancer, newsreader Mr Alagiah beat stage four bowel cancer after being diagnosed in 2014, while Mr Marr, 56, suffered a serious stroke in 2013 which affected the left side of his body after an intensive exercise session on a rowing machine. Non-smoker Mr Robinson, 52, revealed that the first rule of Survivors Club that no one talked about their state of health, or they had to pay the lunch bill was swiftly broken by all four journalists. He said on the BBCs website: The photo of us toasting our survival has been shared by thousands on social media and we are all overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity of the comments people have added. Im afraid to say that we all breached rule one. However, no one did so to complain about what theyd gone through ... No one dwelt on what they could no longer do. There was, instead, good news to be shared about small steps in the recovery process, or of the absurdities and indignities that are faced daily by people who are unwell or disabled, said Mr Robinson. Stars: Nick Robinson and George Alagiah have both opened up about their battle with illness He said the four shared a sense of how lucky we have been, thanking medical staff, family, friends and colleagues for their support. Mr Alagiah, 60, told the Telegraph he was a richer person after fighting bowel cancer before returning to work last November: I wouldnt give back a single day of the previous years experience, he said. I am a richer person for it. More than 15,000 damaged and ripped bank notes were returned to the Reserve Bank of Australia last year, with people pocketing more almost $4 billion. Thousands of people across Australia send back their dodgy money, exchanging it for undamaged currency they can use. More than 15,000 notes worth about $3.8 billion were returned to the Reserve Bank of Australia last year, the ABC reports. Thousands of people across Australia send back their dodgy money, exchanging it unblemished currency they can use (stock image) Thousands of people across Australia send back their damaged money (pictured), exchanging it for undamaged currency they can use The RBA calculates how much to repay people who send back their money based on how much of the note has been damaged, meaning if a $20 note was ripped in half the person would get $10 back. If less than 20 per cent of the note is missing the full value is refunded, however if less than 20 per cent remains nothing is paid. According to its website, the RBA said the goal of its return program is to make sure the notes in circulation meet a high standard. 'This helps to maintain confidence in Australia's currency by making it easier for people to check the security features on banknotes and make it more difficult for counterfeits to be passed or remain in circulation,' it says. The Reserve Bank of Australia determines a note is 'unfit' based on these circumstances. 'Unfit' notes, along with incomplete or contaminated ones, can be returned More than 15,000 notes worth about $3.8 billion were returned to the Reserve Bank of Australia last year (stock image) The RBA calculates how much to repay people who send back their money based on how much of the note has been damaged (stock image) HOW TO RETURN A DAMAGED BANK NOTE FOR CASH The Reserve Bank of Australia recommends people take damaged notes to their bank to have it exchanged. However, if that isn't possible, people can post the money to the RBA's Damaged Banknotes Facility directly. To do that, people have to mail them in a sealed bag, along with a claim form outlining how the note was damaged. The claim is then considered by the RBA, before it makes a decision and either exchanges the faulty note for a cash amount, or the swap is denied. The Damaged Banknotes Facility is provided free of charge. Advertisement To be returnable, notes have to be deemed 'unfit', meaning they either are held together with tape or staples, have small holes, are ripped or incomplete, or have graffiti drawn on them. To exchange faulty notes, people can send them directly to the RBA in a sealed bag or they can hand them over in person at approval banks and locations. Australian notes are made from polymer, with the current ones replacing paper notes in 1988. According to the RBA, there are more than 1.3 billion in circulation with a total value in excess of $65 billion. Notes that are returned are shredded into small pieces, then melted and made into small pellets. According to the RBA, there are more than 1.3 billion in circulation with a total value in excess of $65 billion (stock image) Pakistan has hanged the man who murdered a governor for defending a Christian woman on death row for allegedly insulting the prophet Mohammed and who sought reform of the blasphemy law. Mumtaz Qadri was executed in a move that risks angering Islamist supporters who had feted him as a hero and threatened violence if he was executed. Qadri, a former police bodyguard, shot liberal Punjab provincial governor Salman Taseer 28 times in Islamabad in 2011. He said he was angry at the politician's calls to reform the blasphemy law. Executed: Relatives gather around the body of Mumtaz Qadri after he was executed in Rawalpindi Qadri was hanged in a move that risks angering Islamist supporters who had feted him as a hero and threatened violence if he was executed Civil society activists light candles on the anniversary of the death of the governor of Punjab province Salmaan Taseer, in Lahore The governor had been vocal in his support of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who has been sentenced to death after being found guilty of insulting the Prophet. Within hours of the news of Qadri's execution, hundreds of supporters began gathering at the man's family home in Rawalpindi. His body was being displayed to supporters at his family's home in the city, where paramilitary Ranger forces and police in riot gear as well as ambulances and dozens of police vehicles were stationed, an AFP reporter said. Security was stepped up at flashpoints across the country, including Lahore and near the international airport in Karachi. Riot police were deployed in the nearby capital Islamabad as officials braced for protests from hardliners. Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in the Islamic republic of some 200 million, and Qadri was hailed as a hero by many conservatives eager to drown out calls to soften the legislation. Critics, including European governments, say the legislation -- which carries the death penalty -- is largely misused, with hundreds languishing in jails under false charges. 'Qadri was hanged in Adiala jail early Monday morning' in Rawalpindi, senior local police official Sajjid Gondal told AFP. Cries were heard from inside the house where hundreds of men and women had gathered, and mosques broadcast news of the execution. Riot police were deployed in the nearby capital Islamabad as officials braced for protests from hardliners Pakistan Rangers stand guard as protestors block a road linking to Islamabad, to protest the execution of bodyguard Mumtaz Qadri Qadri's father Bashir Awan said he was 'proud' of the martyrdom of his son, adding that he was ready to sacrifice all five of his other sons 'for the honour of the Prophet' 'I have no regrets,' Qadri's brother Malik Abid told AFP, tears rolling down his cheeks, while women chanted nearby. He said the family had been called to the prison Sunday evening by officials who said Qadri was unwell. But when they arrived, Qadri greeted them with the news that authorities had deceived them and that his execution was imminent. 'We started crying, but he hugged us and chanted 'God is great',' Abid said. 'I am proud of the martyrdom of my son,' Qadri's father Bashir Awan told AFP, adding he was ready to sacrifice all five of his other sons 'for the honour of the Prophet'. In the port mega-city of Karachi, protesters blocked main intersections and some petrol stations were closed after Qadri supporters ordered them shut. Police said security had been tightened there and also in the eastern city of Lahore. Taseer's son Shehryar said on Twitter the hanging was a victory for Pakistan, but not his family. In the port mega-city of Karachi, protesters blocked main intersections and some petrol stations were closed after Qadri supporters ordered them shut Qadri's lawyers drew on Islamic texts to argue that he was justified in killing Taseer, saying that by criticising the law the politician was himself guilty of blasphemy 'The safe return of my brother is the only victory my family wants,' he wrote, referring to his sibling Shahbaz Taseer, who was kidnapped later in 2011 -- reportedly by the Taliban -- despite being given a police escort after his father's killing. Lawyers in Islamabad's district courts said they were going on strike in protest. Some Twitter users hailed the execution as 'justice served'. 'A death should never be cause for any celebration but it's really difficult to feel any sympathy for this man or his vile supporters. #Qadri,' wrote user Hasan Zaidi. Qadri's lawyers drew on Islamic texts to argue that he was justified in killing Taseer, saying that by criticising the law the politician was himself guilty of blasphemy -- an argument rejected by the lead judge. A Supreme Court decision to uphold the death sentence last December sparked rallies. Islamist groups told those protests that if Qadri were executed those responsible should also be put to death. Advertisement A Bangladeshi father dubbed 'Tree Man' for massive bark-like warts on his hands and feet may need a dozen more operations over the course of over up to a year A team of doctors operated on Saturday on Abul Bajandar's right hand to remove some of the smaller growths, his second such operation, said Dhaka Medical College Hospital facility director Samanta Lal Sen. The 26-year-old was admitted to hospital last month to finally shed some of the growths weighing at least five kilograms (11 pounds) that first began appearing 10 years ago. Abul Bajandar, 26, from Khulna, in Bangladesh, has been suffering from a disease known as Epidermodysplasia verruciformis, where tree-like growths grow from his hands Mr Bajandar sits on his bad at a hospital in Dhaka, Bangladesh, as medics come together to discuss possible treatments for him The rare inherited skin disorder means gnarled growths sprout from his hands and feet. Medics will now decide on his treatment after forming a medical board of experts in Bangladesh 'We removed some small warts from his palm. We also did dressing of his fingers, which were operated on last week. He's now better,' Sen said. But Mr Bajandar would need up to 15 operations in total to rid his body of the growths, which may take six months to one year, Sen said. Mr Bajandar, from the southern district of Khulna, was diagnosed with epidermodysplasia verruciformis, an extremely rare genetic condition dubbed 'tree-man disease' that causes the growths. He has become a celebrity, with people travelling to Khulna over the years to see him and hundreds visiting him in hospital. Bajandar said he was determined to continue with the treatment no matter how long it took. 'The first operation has given me hope,' he said. 'I don't want to return to my village without clearing my hands and feet. I want to get back to my old life,' the father-of-one said. Mr Bajandar was given the all-clear for surgery after tests confirmed the warts were not cancerous. He opted to have the surgery after the Bangladesh government decided to pay the bill. Mr Bajandar initially thought the warts were harmless but slowly as the growths covered his hands and feet, he was forced to quit working as a bicycle rickshaw puller. On duty doctors from a burns unit are expected to visit Mr Bajandar, who is pictured lying on a hospital bed in Dhaka Mr Bajandar was admitted to the Dhaka Medical College and Hospital (DMCH) today with the condition, which he has suffered from for seven years The condition means that branch-like growths sprout from Mr Bajandar's hands, which are placed on a hospital bed above The skin condition, which is in inherited, cases wart-like lesions on the body. The lesions are pictured on Mr Bajandar's feet above The ricksaw-van puller, who has been suffering from the rare skin disorder for seven years, is checked over by a doctor at the hospital WHAT IS EPIDERMODYSPLASIA VERRUCIFORMIS? Epidermodysplasia verruciformis (EV) is a rare and inherited skin disorder which creates wart-like lesions anywhere on the body. The condition is caused by infection with the human papillomavirus and can create widespread skin eruptions, including wartlike lesions and reddish-brown pigmented plaques. In order to inherit the disease two abnormal EV genes, one from each parent, must be present. No serious treatment against EV has been found, yet several treatments have been suggested. Notable cases include a Romanian man named Ion Toader who was diagnosed with the condition in March 2007, and the Dede Koswara, from Indonesia. Advertisement Sen said only three known cases of epidermodysplasia verruciformis existed in the world. An Indonesian villager with massive warts all over his body underwent a string of operations in 2008 to remove them. Mr Bajandar was finally admitted to hospital at the end of January, and a board of medical directors came together to discuss potential treatments. He was admitted around the times that the original tree-man Dede Koswara, of Indonesia, whose story captivated the world, died, also in January - although his death was not related to the disease. In 2008 the Discovery Channel told the story Mr Koswara. In the programme, he returned home from hospital after having six kilo warts surgically removed from his body. An American doctor had previously said the warts were the result of severe Human Pappiloma Virus (HPV) infection and doctors thought his type was the worst in the world. The father-of-two first noticed the warts on his body after cutting his knee as a teenager. He was later sacked from his job and shunned by neighbours when the branch-like growths covered much of his body and stopped him from working. At the time it was reported that he would need at least two operations every year. Previously, Mr Koswara was forced to take part in a circus act in Bandung in order to make ends meet. Aldi has suffered a major setback in its battle with supermarket giants Coles and Woolworths with the imminent closure of its online liquor store. The decision to shut down the Aldiliquor.com.au site has apparently been made to focus on the expansion of further stores into South Australia and Western Australia. The website will close on March 24, less than three years after it was launched by the retail giant but the change is not expected to affect liquor sales in Aldi stores. Aldi has announced it will close its online liquor store on March 24 to focus on its expansion into South Australia and Western Australia The closure of Aldi's online store won't affect alcohol sales in stores, according to the a spokesperson for the German supermarket chain The Aldiliquor.com.au site was launched in 2013 as a word-first for the German supermarket chain - Aldi first began trading stores in Australia in 2001 The German discount retailer started trading in Australia back in 2001 and store numbers have grown to more than 400 across Queensland, the ACT, NSW, Victoria and South Australia. 'We are constantly reviewing our business operations and processes to ensure we can continue to deliver exceptional value for our customers every day,' an Aldi spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia. 'This includes eliminating many of the costly extras associated with traditional supermarkets. 'With extensive expansion plans now well underway, we have made the decision to close our online liquor store.' ALDIliquor.com.au will shut as of 4pm on Thursday March 24.' Aldi says any staff impacted by these change, 'will be offered the opportunity to move into other positions, across a number of areas within the business'. Business Insider Australia reports that the online Australian was a world-first for the chain when it was launched three years ago. Rival Woolworths recently reported a significant increase in liquor sales Aldi's decision to pull out of the online alcohol market comes just days after Woolworths reported a significant increase in liquor sales. Woolworths-owned Dan Murphy's and BWS store chains, which both offer online sales, had a 4.9 per cent jump in sales to $4.4 billion in the six months to December 31 despite strong competition from rivals. The Sydney Morning Herald has issued an apology after publishing a column by journalist Paul Sheehan (pictured) detailing an alleged gang rape in Sydney which he later acknowledged had not been justified The Sydney Morning Herald has issued an apology after publishing a column by journalist Paul Sheehan detailing an alleged gang rape in Sydney which he has since acknowledged was fabricated. The column, published by Fairfax a week ago, tells the story of a nurse who claimed she was viciously assaulted and raped after finishing a late shift at Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital in August 2002. Fairfax acknowledged the original column's aspersions against the Middle Eastern community and said it raised untested allegations of inaction against the NSW Police. This comes after Sheehan apologised to NSW Police and admitted to publishing unchecked claims that authorities ignored a woman's allegations she had been 'gang raped' by a group of Middle Eastern men. The woman, who went by her middle name Louise, told Sheehan she had fallen asleep in her car near St Mary's Cathedral and woke to a man pulling her leg before she was punched in the face. She then claims she was beaten and raped by six men of Middle Eastern appearance before several homeless men found her. Sheehan published a column in the Sydney Morning Herald last week telling the story of a nurse who claimed she was assaulted and raped after finishing a late shift at Sydney's St Vincent's Hospital in August 2002 FULL FAIRFAX MEDIA APOLOGY 'In last Mondays paper, the Herald reported the details of an alleged sexual assault under the headline The horrifying untold story of Louise. A subsequent column printed in last Thursdays edition, The story of Louise: why the police have no case to answer, but I do, acknowledged key elements of the original story were unable to be substantiated. The original story, which has been corrected, included aspersions against the Middle Eastern community and raised untested allegations of inaction against the NSW Police. The Herald sincerely regrets the hurt and distress this report caused to these groups, and unreservedly apologises.' Advertisement Among her injuries, the woman says she suffered a broken jaw, 79 fractures, a broken ankle, a broken back vertebrae and broken nose. This follows retraction from Sheehan, who interviewed the woman for four hours on four separate occasions, saying he now believes details of her horrific story were false. He said when he pressed her about why there was no complaint of the attack in the system, she told him she had tried to report the crime six months after it happened but claims police told her she waited too long and she had no evidence. Sheehan apologised to NSW Police in his recent column because the story accused them of not treating the crime seriously. He said the Commissioner quickly responded to the allegations made in his column but Louise would not assist police. Sheehan, who interviewed the woman for a total of four hours on four separate occasions, has written a retraction saying he now believes details of her horrific story were false The veteran journalist said Louise's claims she had been raped in 2002 was at a time when a series of gang rape assaults had occurred in Sydney with many unreported to police. During 2000 to 2002 there were several trials for gang rape cases where victims had been attacked by groups of Middle Eastern men - a fact Sheehan said gave him some context with Louise's allegations. 'In the story recounted to me by Louise, she made insulting references to rapes committed by Middle Eastern men. I had wrongly amplified this insult by including her words in the column,' he wrote. Social media was divided with the original story of Louise's alleged rape and many users started poking holes in the story almost immediately after it was published. Several Twitter users pointed out that Louise's claims were remarkably similar to allegations made by a woman at two Reclaim Australia rallies last year where people protest against Islam - with some suggesting her story was fabricated. Sheehan wrote that he has not been able to get in contact with Louise since Febuary 22. The woman, who went by her middle name Louise, told Sheehan she was beaten and raped by six men of Middle Eastern appearance before several homeless men found her. Among her injuries, the woman says she suffered a broken jaw, 79 fractures, a broken ankle, a broken back vertebrae and broken nose (file photo) Social media has also reacted to today's apology, with many saying the print version has not been given much prominence, particularly compared to the original article. 'The 'Apology' written by the SMH doesn't name Paul Sheehan and isn't given the same prominence of the original article', lawyer, Mariam Veiszadeh wrote on twitter. 'You'll be needing one of these [microscope] to fins the apology for the Paul Sheehan debacle,' comedian Tony Martin wrote. Social media has also reacted to today's apology, with many saying the print version has not been given much prominence, particularly compared to the original article North Korea paraded a detained University of Virginia student before the media on Monday in Pyongyang, where he tearfully apologized for attempting to steal a political banner. Otto Warmbier, 21, made his first appearance since he was arrested in January for committing an anti-state crime with 'the tacit connivance of the U.S. government and under its manipulation.' Warmbier sobbed as he begegd for forgiveness for the 'hostile' act, claiming the attempted theft, from a staff-only section of the hotel where he had been staying, had been at the behest of a member of a church back home who wanted it as a 'trophy'. Scroll down for video Otto Warmbier, a detained University of Virginia student, was paraded before the media on Monday in Pyongyang, where he tearfully apologized for attempting to steal a political banner 'I made the worst mistake of my life,' the tearful UVA student said at the press conference, which was covered by North Korean and international media, according to CNN. 'I committed the crime of taking down a political slogan from the staff holding area of the Yanggakdo International Hotel,' Warmbier said. 'I apologize to each and every one of the millions of the Korean people and I beg that you see how I was used and manipulated,' the student's statement continued. 'I plead for you to forgive me, not for me, but for my family,' he added. According to video seen by CNN, Warmbier was bowed his head as he asked for forgiveness. He said: 'I never, never should have allowed myself to be lured by the United States administration to commit a crime in this country. 'I wish that the United States administration never manipulate people like myself in the future to commit crimes against foreign countries.' American college student Otto Warmbier was paraded in front of reporters Monday in North Korea Otto Warmbier went to North Korea on a tourist trip organized through a travel agency. When he was about to leave the country, he was arrested for allegedly trying to steal a political banner. Pictured here in file photos 'I entirely beg you, the people and government of [North Korea], for your forgiveness. Please!' The CIA, an underground organization at the University of Virginia, and a church member in Warmbier's hometown of Wyoming, Ohio, were all blamed for pressuring the student to commit the crime, CNN reported. It is unknown whether or not Warmbier was forced to speak at the press conference - but a North Korean official told the station the student called the press conference 'at his own request.' However, the insular East Asian nation, whose official name is the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, is known for staging propaganda spectacles in opposition to the United States. I entirely beg you, the people and government of [North Korea], for your forgiveness. Please! Otto Warmbier In previous cases, people who have been detained in North Korea and made a public confession often recant those statements after their release. North Korea announced in late January it had arrested Warmbier but no details of what kind of charges or punishment Warmbier faces were immediately released. He was arrested while visiting the country with Young Pioneer Tours, an agency specializing in travel to North Korea, which is strongly discouraged by the U.S. State Department. He had been staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, which is located on an island in a river that runs through Pyongyang, the capital. It is common for sections of tourist hotels to be reserved for North Korean staff and off-limits to foreigners. The alleged attempted theft occurred on January 1, the day before Warmbier was due to leave the country after a trip organized through the China-based travel agency Young Pioneer Tours. As Warmbier was about to board the plane from Pyongyang, he was detained by North Korean authorities, witnesses said. An Irish student who was booked on the same flight as Warmbier said the American was accosted by armed officials at the airport and dragged away. 'When we were leaving one of the other tour group's [the Young Pioneers] tour leader said 'We're missing Otto,'' the student, who was only identified as Darragh, told the Independent. '[The tour leader] got up and was really frantically running up and down the plane. She ran to the air hostess and was trying to say to the air hostess that 'we're missing Otto.' She then went up to business class and he wasn't there.' Warmbier, 21, has been detained in North Korea since January 2 for allegedly trying to steal a political banner Warmbier bowed during his confession and asked for forgiveness for his 'hostile act' against North Korea 'I entirely beg you, the people and government of [North Korea], for your forgiveness. Please!' Warmbier said According to Warmbier's statement on Monday, he wanted the banner with a political slogan on it as a trophy for the church member, who was the mother of a friend. In his comments, Warmbier said he was offered a used car worth $10,000 by a member of the church. He said the church member told him the slogan would be hung on its wall as a trophy. He also said he was told that if he was detained and didn't return, $200,000 would be paid to his mother in the form of a charitable donation. Warmbier identified the church as the Friendship United Methodist Church, which is in his hometown, Wyoming, Ohio. Meshach Kanyion, pastor of the church, would not confirm whether he knows Warmbier or if he is a church member. 'I don't have any comment at this time,' he told The Associated Press. Warmbier's parents said they had not heard from their son since his arrest and were greatly relieved to finally see a picture of him. A fellow tourist said Otto Warmbier had been drinking vodka and stayed up late the night of the alleged crime 'You can imagine how deeply worried we were and what a traumatic experience this has been for us,' Warmbier's father, Fred Warmbier, said in a statement provided by the University of Virginia. 'I hope the fact that he has conveyed his sincere apology for anything that he may have done wrong will now make it possible for the (North Korean) authorities to allow him to return home,' he said. The university said it had no immediate comment other than that it was in close contact with Warmbier's family. Warmbier told reporters in Pyongyang that he had also been encouraged in his act by the university's 'Z Society,' which he said he was trying to join. The magazine of the university's alumni association describes the Z Society as a 'semi-secret ring society' that was founded in 1892 and conducts philanthropy, puts on honorary dinners and grants academic awards. Warmbier said he accepted the offer of money because his family is 'suffering from very severe financial difficulties.' 'I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money,' he said, adding that if he ever mentioned the involvement of the church, 'no payments would come.' North Korea regularly accuses Washington and Seoul of sending spies to overthrow its government to enable the U.S.-backed South Korean government to control the Korean Peninsula. U.S. tourism to North Korea is legal and virtually all Americans who make the journey return home without incident. Even so, the State Department has repeatedly warned against travel to the North. Visitors, especially those from America, who break the country's sometimes murky rules risk detention, arrest and possible jail sentences. Young Pioneer describes itself on its website as providing 'budget tours to destinations your mother would rather you stayed away from.' The agency, based in China, also has tours to Iran, Cuba, Turkmenistan, Iraq and other former Soviet countries. North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un (above) is known for staging propaganda spectacles in opposition to the US After Warmbier's detention, it stressed in a news release that he was the first of the 7,000 people it has taken to North Korea over the past eight years to face arrest. 'Despite what you may hear, North Korea is probably one of the safest places on Earth to visit,' it says on its website. In the past, North Korea has held out until senior U.S. officials or statesmen came to personally bail out detainees, all the way up to former President Bill Clinton, whose visit in 2009 secured the freedom of American journalists Euna Lee and Laura Ling. Both had crossed North Korea's border from China illegally. It took a visit in November 2014 by U.S. spy chief James Clapper to bring home Matthew Miller, who had ripped up his visa when entering the country, and Korean-American missionary Kenneth Bae, who had been incarcerated since November 2012. Jeffrey Fowle, another U.S. tourist from Ohio detained for six months at about the same time as Miller, was released just before that and sent home on a U.S. government plane. Bill Clinton has defended the moment he lashed out at a veteran who challenged him over Hillary's stance on the Veterans Association, saying he was not given the chance to respond. Speaking in Florida on Sunday night, Clinton said: 'I tried to answer and they just kept screaming because they were afraid of the answer. We cant be like that.' The former President was heavily criticized for telling the veteran and another woman to 'shut up' during a Hillary campaign event in Bluffton, South Carolina. Bill Clinton on Sunday defended telling a former Marine to 'shut up' while he was being heckled at a Hillary campaign event in South Carolina The former President said the man was not giving him the opportunity to answer his questions, accusing him of 'being afraid of my answer' adding 'we can't be like that' Clinton has a record of engaging with protesters and allowing them to speak at campaign events, but failed to hold on to his usual composure while being heckled on Friday Addressing the controversy on Sunday, Clinton told ABC News: 'Weve got to quit screaming at each other. Its like that debate. 'I got interrupted twice on the day before the election, and the police almost tried to shut the people up. I said no, let them talk. 'I said the only thing I ask is that when you make a point you let me answer. Guess what? They were trained never to let anyone answer. 'So I let them make their point twice, both of them, and I tried to answer and they just kept screaming because they were afraid of the answer. We cant be like that.' Clinton has a record of engaging with protesters on campaign trips, such as the last time he was in Florida when a man hit out at him for taking money from Donald Trump. Clinton retorted: 'I certainly did. I took his money for my foundation and used it better than hes using it now.' While giving a speech in Bluffton, South Carolina, on Friday, former president Bill Clinton (pictured) was interrupted by a former Marine However, Clinton did not maintain his usual composure on Friday when a former Marine asked him to address what Hillary was going to do about Veteran's Affairs. Clinton turned the question back on him: 'What do you think should be done with the VA?' 'The thing is, we lost four lives in Benghazi killed and your wife tried to cover it up,' the Marine responded, drawing boos and jeers from the crowd. As the man continued to talk, audience members yelled at him to sit down. 'Are you going to let me answer?' Clinton asked. 'This is America. I get to answer,' he said. 'You listen to me. I heard you,' Clinton snapped as the man turned around and began addressing the crowd. 'I heard your speech. They heard your speech. You listen to me now,' Clinton said, his voice cracking. 'Am I allowed to answer? I'm not your commander in chief anymore but if I were, I'd tell you to be more polite and sit down.' 'I wouldn't listen!' the man shouted in return. The Marine (right) interrupted Clinton's speech and asked him to address what Hillary Clinton was going to do about the VA As the Marine kept shouting at Clinton (left), he drew jeers and boos from the crowd, so much that he was then escorted out by security (right) 'Do you have the courage to listen to my answer? Don't throw him out. Shut up and listen to my answer. I'll answer it,' Clinton said as the man was pushed out of the gymnasium by sheriff's deputies. 'Can I just saying something? That's what's wrong: his mind has been poisoned by lies and he won't listen,' Clinton said. A woman just jumped up and began shouting at the former president. 'Hillary lied over four coffins,' she said as a man near her yelled 'Bullshit.' 'She lied and she lied to those families. So all those families are liars?' she said as Clinton tried to stop her and a Secret Service agent moved closer to the former president. 'Did she lie?' the woman said as Clinton responded, 'Will you let me answer?' 'No,' he said. 'Why are you afraid to listen to my answer?' Clinton said. 'Are you afraid?' he asked her. 'No I'm not afraid because I know you're going to lie,' she responded. The video shows her then forcibly removed from the room. Another woman jumped out and started shouting after the Marine was escorted out. She said constantly repeated that 'Hillary lied over four coffins'. After more boos from the crows, she was also escorted out Several Clinton supporters (pictured) yelled back at the Marine and the woman for making accusations that Hillary 'lied over four coffins' Clinton spoke at a rally in Tulsa, Oklahoma on Saturday afternoon, campaigning for Hillary. The 'Get Out the Vote' rally at Booker T. Washington High School marks the second time Clinton visited the state ahead of Super Tuesday. Saturday morning, Clinton was the guest speaker at a 'Get Out The Vote' at the University of Central Oklahoma in Edmond. Both rallies were meant to encourage supporters to vote for Hillary in the March 1 primary. A New Zealand couple have been catching hundreds of cockroaches each night after their home became plagued by thousands of the critters three summers ago. Phillipa and David Gravatt set out six cockroach bait traps each night at their home in Epsom, in inner-south Auckland, and awake to find hundreds every morning, NZ Herald reported. This season, the couple have caught 2,200 American sewer roaches and believe theyve spent about $500 this month alone on baits, after they first noticed the problem three years ago which has worsened each summer. Scroll down for video Auckland couple David Gravatt said they catch hundreds of cockroaches each night at their home which has been infested for the last three summers Mr Gravatt said a nearby sewer opening had been the original source of the problem, after he inspected to find all these feelers just waving their little wands at me. The resident told Daily Mail Australia he has since sealed the sewer opening with silicone, but said the cockroaches have now infested the local area and is no longer confined to the outdoors. Theyre coming into the houses, and theyre certainly spreading far and wide.' He said neighbours have also begun complaining. The resident told Daily Mail Australia he has since sealed the sewer opening with silicone, but said the cockroaches have now infested the local area and is no longer confined to the outdoors Mr Gravatt said a nearby sewer opening had been the original source of the problem, after he inspected to find all these feelers just waving their little wands at me On one recent night the couple caught 170, and Mr Gravatt told Daily Mail Australia that each trap catches dozens each night. He said the American sewer cockroaches are quite big, very fast and they sort of scuttle off at high speed as soon as you put light on them. Its inconvenient, put it that way. A Watercare spokesperson told NZ Herald they have received a small number of complaints regarding cockroaches. The spokesperson said they flushed the wastewater pipes each time and the Auckland Council arranged for an extermination. Another flush of the pipes has reportedly been arranged. Daily Mail Australia has contacted Watercare and Auckland Council for comment. Theyre coming into the houses, and theyre certainly spreading far and wide,' Mr Gravatt told Daily Mail Australia Mr Gravatt said they recently caught 170 cockroaches in a night from their six traps He said there has been a trail of cockroaches coming from a nearby sewer opening which has since been sealed - however the cockroaches have now infested the area Mr Gravatt said the American sewer cockroaches are quite big, very fast and they sort of scuttle off at high speed as soon as you put light on them This season, the couple have caught 2,200 American sewer roaches and believe theyve spent about $500 this month alone on baits, after they first noticed the problem three years ago which has worsened each summer British tourists could be left stranded abroad if voters choose to quit the EU, ministers warned today. An official government report setting out the process of how Britain would leave the EU also predicted a decade of economic chaos if voters backed Brexit as the country would have to negotiate complex new trading relationships with Brussels. But leading Out campaigner Boris Johnson today blasted the 'project fear' agenda promoted by the Government while House of Commons leader Chris Grayling insisted there was 'no evidence' behind the 24-page report. Scroll down for video The official Government report published today warned that in the absence of an agreement with the EU on trade after two years, UK citizens on holiday in popular destinations such as Tenerife (pictured) would immediately face restrictions on their ability to 'move about freely' Boris Johnson (pictured in Northern Ireland today) blasted the 'project fear' agenda after the Government published a dossier predicting 10 years of chaos if voters choose to quit the EU The Cabinet Office review published today said the two year exit outlined in the EU treaties was unlikely. It warned that in the absence of an agreement on trade after two years, UK citizens living, working or on holiday abroad would immediately face restrictions on their ability to 'move about freely in Europe'. The 'Process for withdrawing from the European Union' document added that domestically, Britain would suffer 10 years of turmoil and a range of industries - including car manufacturing, farming, financial services - would be hit by a Brexit. And Matthew Hancock, the Cabinet Office minister, claimed that the report was only a 'cautious assessment' of the implication of Britain quitting the EU. Boris Johnson, pictured smashing glass on a visit to a factory in Londonderry today, claimed the In campaign 'intended to provoke only one emotion in the breast of the British public and that is fear' London Mayor Boris Johnson, left, has dismissed the Government campaign as promoting 'fear' while Commons leader Chris Grayling, right, said there was 'no evidence' behind the new report The civil servant-authored report said: 'A vote to leave the EU would be the start, not the end, of a process. It could lead to up to a decade or more of uncertainty.' Legally, the process to leave the EU requires the Prime Minister to trigger 'article 50' of the treaties which formally begins a two-year programme of negotiations. Mr Hancock told the Today programme: 'It will take two years in which we go through the first part of this, which is renegotiating our relationship with EU countries. 'During that period there are businesses around Britain who say there will be risks to jobs and investment because they don't know what the future relationship will be. Cabinet Office Minister Matt Hancock, left, insisted the report was a 'cautious' assessment of the risks. The new row comes as Sir Jeremy Heywood, the Cabinet Secretary, right, faced growing pressure over his role Boris Johnson, pictured serving cake on a trip to Northern Ireland today, called for 'total transparency' from the Government in the run up to the 'once in a lifetime' referendum in June 'There are real consequences of this for jobs and for livelihoods. I must say this isn't only my view, it is also the view of some of the leave campaigners who have said there will be, in their words, ''pain and problems and risk and cost and uncertainty''.' But Mr Grayling dismissed the report. He said: 'Why on earth would we think it would take quite as long as the Second World War to be able to sort out our trading relationships with Europe and elsewhere? 'I DON'T WANT SCOTLAND TO BE INDEPENDENT BECAUSE OF BREXIT,' NICOLA STURGEON INSISTS Nicola Sturgeon (pictured in London today) said she was targeting an 'overwhelming' vote for Britain to stay in the EU and insisted she did not want Scotland to go independent because of Brexit Nicola Sturgeon insisted today that she does not want Scotland to become independent because of Britain leaving the EU. Scotland's First Minister used a speech in London to warn there was a 'real chance' of her country holding a second independence referendum if UK voters back Brexit in June. Ms Sturgeon set out a positive case for staying in the 28-state bloc, telling voters that the EU was 'good for the prosperity and the well-being of individuals, families and communities across our country'. The SNP leader said she was targeting an 'overwhelming' vote to remain in the EU in the June 23 referendum and told her fellow In campaigners south of the border to sell an 'uplifting' and 'positive' message of the EU. Her remarks were seen as criticism of the tactics of the In campaign in the first week of the campaign, which have been described as 'Project Fear' by Out campaigners. In a speech in central London today, Ms Sturgeon said: 'I hope that the debate that we engage in over the next few months is a thoroughly positive debate, because one of the undoubted lessons of the Scottish experience is that a miserable, negative, fear-based campaign saw the No campaign in the Scottish referendum lose over the course of the campaign a 20-point lead. 'I don't have to point out to anybody here that the In campaign in this referendum doesn't have a 20-point lead to squander.' Insisting that she wants Scotland to vote on their own future independent of whether the UK votes to leave the EU, Ms Sturgeon added: 'If Scotland were to vote in favour of EU membership and the rest of the UK were to vote to leave - if Scotland in other words was to be outvoted - then there is a real chance that that could lead to a second referendum on Scottish independence. 'It's not what I want to happen. Of course, I do want Scotland to be independent, but I don't want Scotland to become independent because the UK chooses to leave the European Union. 'I want the UK as a whole to stay in the EU because I think that option will be better for the rest of the UK, I think it will be better for the EU and, should Scotland become independent in the future - something I believe will happen - I think it will be better for us too. 'Ireland's stance on the UK referendum is good evidence of this. Why wouldn't we want our closest neighbour also to be a member of the European Union?' Advertisement 'What possible evidence is there that it would take 10 years to sort out our trading arrangements? 'If you look at our relations with the European Union, we have a 50 billion-plus trade deficit with the European Union - we buy much more from them than they buy from us.' And Mr Johnson, writing in his Daily Telegraph column, said: 'It is now obvious that the Remain campaign is intended to provoke only one emotion in the breast of the British public and that is fear.' The Prime Minister's official spokeswoman rejected claims the In campaign was promoting a fear agenda. She said: 'The Prime Minister would completely reject that. 'We are clear, both the Prime Minister in terms of his responsibility and the government, to speak plainly about what the Government believes is right for the country - that is we will be better off, safer and stronger staying in a reformed EU.' They hoped, he wrote, that voters would 'continue to sit trapped like passengers in the back seat of some errant minicab with a driver who cannot speak English and who is taking us remorselessly and expensively in the wrong direction'. Alan Johnson, the chairman of the Labour In for Britain campaign, said: 'This report raises important questions on how Britain will disentangle itself from 40 years of co-operation with our closest allies, neighbours and biggest trading partner. 'The case put by those looking to wrench Britain out of Europe looks flimsier by the day. The leave campaign need to answer the tough questions on trade deals, rights for British citizens living and working in Europe, and access to the single market. 'Labour will continue to campaign for Britain to remain in the EU for all those reasons as well as for jobs, growth, investment, security and our influence in the world. Britain is better off remaining a member of the European Union.' The new row comes as pressure is mounting on the head of the civil service to answer concerns over a ban on ministers pushing for a divorce from Brussels being shown some official papers. Cabinet Secretary Sir Jeremy Heywood will be grilled by MPs on Tuesday about the edict and ministers were braced for a possible urgent question session in the Commons. Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith, one of five Cabinet ministers backing 'leave', said he and Eurosceptic colleagues 'must have the right to continue to look' at material as he was 'constitutionally' in charge of his department. Downing Street insisted the restrictions applied only to areas directly related to the referendum and had been unanimously approved by the whole Cabinet as part of an agreement allowing them to remain in the Government while opposing its official policy. The Government's analysis, drawn up by Cabinet Office officials, concluded it was unlikely the terms of withdrawal could be fully negotiated within the formal two-year process. Whitehall officials said that the analysis shows that an incomplete deal would open the door to other EU states demanding concessions in return for an extension. Work on new trade deals with some of the 50-plus countries that have arrangements with the EU would be 'constrained' while the process went on, it said. Among issues to be resolved would be health insurance, cross-border security, fishing rights and access to the agency that monitors the safety of medicines. David Cameron, pictured left campaigning in Northern Ireland on Saturday, has faced claims he is promoting 'project fear' while Boris Johnson specifically criticised work by George Osborne, right in Shanghai, which led to a warning from the G20 about the risks posed by a Brexit to the British economy Elsewhere today, Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon urged her fellow In campaigners south of the border to adopt more 'positive' tactics in the EU referendum, telling them not to fall in the trap of pursuing the 'miserable, negative, fear-based campaign' that undermined the No campaign in the Scottish independence referendum. She also insisted she did not want Scotland to become independence as a consequence of Britain leaving the EU. CAMERON TO FACE BORIS OR GOVE IN TV SHOWDOWN David Cameron (right) could face his rival Boris Johnson (left) in a TV showdown days before the EU vote David Cameron is set to face either Boris Johnson or Michael Gove in a TV showdown days before the EU referendum. Brexit campaigners say one of Mr Gove and Mr Johnson will represent the Out camp in the BBC Question Time show on June 15, while Mr Cameron is expected to lead the argument for staying in the EU. But they will not go head-to-head debate with Mr Cameron - instead the show will see each camp face a grilling from a studio audience one after the other. A final TV debate on the EU will be held at Wembley Arena on June 21, two days before voters go to the polls, but the Prime Minister is not expected to take part. The Wembley venue has a capacity of around 12,500 and In campaigners fear the 'bear pit' could be hijacked by Brexit fans. Meanwhile Eurosceptics have accused of giving biased coverage of the referendum campaign so far. Tory MP Andrew Bridgen has written to the BBC news boss James Harding with 'serious concerns' of bias in the organisation. 'The BBC is emerging as a cheerleader for those who want to remain in the EU,' he said. Fellow Tory MP and founder of the Eurosceptics Conservatives for Britain group said it was 'essential for democracy and the credibility of the BBC that our state broadcaster is, and is seen to be, scrupulously impartial'. Mr Harding insisted the BBC would ensure its coverage gave fair coverage to both sides of the debate. A Downing Street source said: 'No decisions have been made or discussions held. Our opponents can talk about debates for four months if they want; we are talking about the big issues.' Advertisement But she warned unionists that there was a 'real chance' of a second independence referendum if voters do opt to cut ties with Brussels. 'If Scotland were to vote in favour of EU membership and the rest of the UK were to vote to leave - if Scotland in other words was to be outvoted - then there is a real chance that that could lead to a second referendum on Scottish independence,' she told an audience in central London. 'It's not what I want to happen. Of course, I do want Scotland to be independent, but I don't want Scotland to become independent because the UK chooses to leave the European Union.' Mr Cameron will come under further pressure over his decision to impose a ban on pro-Brexit ministers accessing government papers that relate to the EU after Commons Speaker John Bercow granted an Urgent Question on the issue. Leading Eurosceptic Bernard Jenkin will demand ministers explain the reasoning behind imposing the strict civil service guidance, which he claims will hinder the ability of anti-EU ministers from doing their jobs. Mr Johnson also targeted George Osborne in his newspaper column today, accusing the Chancellor and the Treasury of 'talking up' threats to the economy by persuading G20 finance ministers to include a dramatic warning that Brexit would cause a 'shock' to the global economy in a post-summit communique. 'Surely the first time any country has used an international forum actively to talk up threats to its own economic prospects,' he wrote. A British official said concerns had been raised well in advance of the summit by the US and China among others and dismissed the idea such countries could be told what to say as 'ridiculous'. Conservative divisions on the issue were starkly illustrated at the weekend when Mr Duncan Smith accused Mr Cameron of showing 'a low opinion of the British people' by downplaying the UK's prospects outside the EU. He insisted a favourable trade deal with the rest of the EU was 'very do-able'. But Mr Cameron, who is embarking on the latest leg of a tour of question sessions around the UK, renewed his charge that opponents of continued membership were offering only 'vague' ideas of how Britain would prosper outside the EU. Writing in the first edition of the New Day newspaper, he said: 'They tell you the grass would be greener - but they can't or won't say how. 'All that arises from their case is a string of unanswered questions. The only certainty is that their plan to take us out of Europe could lead to a decade or more of uncertainty. 'The choice is clear: between a greater Britain and the great unknown. I hope readers will choose certainty and prosperity over speculation and risk. Then we can carry on making this great country greater still.' How will your MP vote? Full list of all the Conservative politicians who have declared their stand on the EU referendum debate Cops say the killings were not related to race or religion, but have not ruled out gang links But criticism that the event was being ignored was strong online Fort Wayne's community 'showed unity and solidarity' in the wake of the execution-style murders of three of its young men, two Muslim and one Christian, a local imam said Friday. But some online have accused police, press and the nation's Muslim community of indifference to the crime. The youths 23-year-old Mohamedtaha Omar, 20-year-old Adam Mekki and 17-year-old Muhannad Adam Tairab, all of whom were immigrants from Sudan were shot to death in an empty 'party house' on Wednesday, in an incident that police were quick to characterize as not being related to their religion or nationality. After a funeral service held Friday for Omar and Tairab, both of whom were Muslim, Hamzah Sharif, the imam of the Islamic Center of Fort Wayne, wrote on Facebook: 'All of [the] Fort Wayne community showed unity and solidarity against violence and stood together to pray for the three young men along with their families.' Murdered: Adam Kamel Mekki (left), 20, Mohamedtaha Omar (center), 23, and Muhannad Adam Tairab (right), 17, were all killed execution-style on Wednesday. Omar and Tairab were Muslim, while Mekki was Christian He continued: '[The] Fort Wayne community proved that we are all one, regardless of our faiths and nationalities. Thank you FWPD for the great effort. Thank you Fort Wayne citizens for being great and united in such hard times. We trust our men in uniforms and we have faith that they will bring justice!' Initial reports said that all three of the men were Muslim, but The Washington Post confirmed on Sunday that Omar and Tairab were Muslim, while Mekki was Christian. Rusty York, director of public safety for Fort Wayne, had previously told ABC 21 Alive that there was 'no reason to believe this was any type of hate crime, or focused because of their religion or their nationality whatsoever.' The police also had not ruled out the possibility of the killings being gang-related, but said the men were not known to be members of any gangs. The Washington Post reported that Garry Hamilton, chief of Fort Wayne police, attended the funeral, saying, 'I need someone to come and tell me what they know. Please, Im asking for your help and your mercy to bring justice for these young men.' A photograph of Hamilton accompanied imam Sharif's Facebook post. Confidence: Imam Hamzah Sharif of the Islamic Center of Fort Wayne wrote on Facebook about his trust in the police, including a picture of police chief Garry Hamilton (pictured), who attended Omar and Tairab's funeral However, the confidence in the local police department displayed by the imam was not shared by some online. On Sunday a petition was created by Muslim poet and writer Tariq Toure 'demanding justice' for the three men. 'It is extremely troubling when some lives are valued more than others,' he wrote. 'The muted attention given to this case and the lackluster response from officials in Indiana are a sad reflection of today's society. 'The current response from law enforcement immediately being dismissive of the idea that this might be a hate crime and hinting at gang violence, is deeply troubling in a time of growing Islamophobia and mass criminalization of Black youth.' At the time of writing, three hours after the petition was started, it had garnered 3,832 signatures. Lack of trust: Poet and writer Tariq Toure started a petition demanding 'justice' for the victims, saying that the case had received a 'lackluster response from officials in Indiana' Petition: Within three hours of its opening, the petition had gathered 3,832 signatures Homicide: The death of the three men has been deemed a homicide but is not thought to be a hate crime based on the men's religions or race, according to local police Many also posted their concerns under the #OurThreeBoys hashtag Sunday, a reference to the #OurThreeWinners hashtag that emerged after three Muslim girls were murdered last May in North Carolina. Most identified all three men as being Muslim, which they believed was linked to the perceived police inaction. 'Black. Muslim. Immigrant. Poor & working class. Dead,' said @KhaledBeydoun. 'These 3 men were killed WED. We still know nothing.' But others saved their ire for what they saw as a lack of media coverage. 'Execution-style murders & no coverage for days?! Had they been white, though...' wrote @RaWondersx, '#OurThreeBoys deserve to be known.' 'This is just sickening. The fact that I wouldn't have learned about this if it wasn't for Twitter,' wrote @Gresham_Major. And @Doaaabdooo wrote, '3 Muslims executed in Indiana & barely any media coverage. I guess we're only newsworthy when we're killers, not being killed.' Support also came from overseas. Writing from Birmingham, England, @AminaAden said, 'Lack of media coverage is really not surprising. We're criminalised and dehumanised immediately. Rest in peace, boys.' Nothing: Some on Twitter believed that police were sidelining the murders because of the status of the victims as Sudanese Muslim immigrants Annoyed: This was one of many Tweets expressing annoyance about the perceived lack of press coverage of the murders. Posts using the #OurThreeBoys hashtag accumulated quickly over the weekend Criticism: Several of the posts attributed a lack of mainstream press coverage to the race of the victims 'Sickening': Some believe they would not have known about the case at all if it weren't for Twitter and the #OurThreeBoys hashtag Global support: This poster, from Birmingham, England, showed support from overseas For some, however, there were concerns that it wasn't just the media ignoring the incident. User @yaxxsabr seemed to express concern that there was a lack of support from the online social justice community, writing 'Where are all the #BlackLivesMatter people?!?' 'The selective empathy and lack of coverage for #OurThreeBoys shows what it's like to be othered twice over,' wrote @motherjohnmisty, referring to Omar and Tairab's status as both black and Muslim. In a reply to that tweet, she added 'My fellow black Muslims are watching the responses from their brothers and sisters in Islam, your silence speaks volumes.' Concerns that the wider Muslim community was deliberately ignoring the case were a common theme on social media. @RaWondersx wrote, 'Hi Muslim community quietly going through this hashtag. Do u want to wait until ur sure they weren't gang related? Is that it?' Meanwhile, @FreshCutMo tweeted, 'Dear Muslim Community, Your silence is deafening. Your silence is heartbreaking. Your silence will be remembered. Regards, #OurThreeBoys.' And @HanifJWilliams said, 'It shakes my humanity that those who conveniently declare "#MuslimLivesMatter" are eerily silent for #OurThreeBoys. Racism is contradictory.' Lack of support: Some, like this user, felt let down by both the media and by other social justice enthusiasts who had promoted the #BlackLivesMatter hashtag 'Waiting': It wasn't just the press and police that were being criticized: many posts expressed disappointment in what they say as a reticence for the wider Muslim community to speak up about the murders Silence: Fingers were pointed within the Muslim community 'Racism': Some believed that it was anti-black racism within the wider Muslim community that was contributing to what they saw as silence on the issue And back in Fort Wayne, the families of the victims continued to try to put their lives together. On Friday, Omar's sister, Nawal, posted up a Facebook message eulogizing her lost sibling. 'My brother was a good boy,' she wrote, 'He didn't do anything wrong. He never joined a gang, never did drugs or [drank] alcohol. He was my mother's boy. He was mother's favorite because he was the most humble. He did nothing to deserve to die like that. 'He always wanted to go back to Sudan but now he can't because some heartless people decided to end his life when it just started. They also took my little cousin who was only 17 and their beloved friend Adam's life.' The bodies of Tairab, Omar and Mekki were discovered Wednesday in an abandoned 'party house' that authorities said is frequented by teens and young adults of Chadian and South Sudanese decent. The investigation continues, although as of Sunday police had not announced any leads or suspects. Advertisement Anyone left still buzzing after the Oscars can take a closer look at their favourite movie nominees by visiting locations, hotels and castles prominently featured in the leading films. A large Irish castle featured in 'Brooklyn', a German Villa a short walk away from historic locations in 'Bridge of Spies', and a former newspaper office turned into a hotel seen in 'Spotlight', have made a Booking.com list of Oscar-worthy holiday destinations. All three films were nominated for this year's Best Picture with 'Spotlight' taking the win. Scroll down for video The Wilton Castle (pictured) sits in Enniscorthy, Ireland, the hometown of Ellis, the protagonist in fan favourite 'Brooklyn' The accommodation is fitted with a seating area, fireplace with elegant and historical features around the rooms The massive castle dates back to the 13th century but has many modern features like beautiful large rooms with hardwood floors and exposed brick (pictured) In the movie 'Brooklyn', Ellis (left) is an Irish woman who immigrates to New York in the 1950s and falls in love with an Italian plumber but when she returns home to Enniscorthy for a visit, she meets another man The Wilton Castle sits in Enniscorthy, Ireland, the hometown of Ellis, the protagonist in fan favourite 'Brooklyn'. Ellis is an Irish woman who immigrates to New York in the 1950s and falls in love with an Italian plumber but when she returns home to Enniscorthy for a visit, she meets another man. The massive castle dates back to the 13th century but has many modern features like beautiful large rooms with hardwood floors and exposed brick. It sits among a large, lush property abundant with flowers and wildlife and a sun terrace. Holidaymakers can stay for two nights in the 'Deluxe Apartment' at the Wilton Castle from AUD $916 (US $650) this weekend - from Friday to Sunday - after the Oscars. The Guest House Villa Fritz in Potsdam, Germany, sits the Glienicke Bridge a popular spot for Russian and American spies to meet during the Cold War and a prominent plot point in the movie 'Bridge of Spies' The spacious bedrooms have been decked with elegant and historical decorations - from beds, tables, fireplace to the chairs and curtains The elegant and historically furnished apartments and rooms all feature a kitchen, dining area and a modern and private bathroom The Guest House Villa Fritz is cosy and warmly decorated with vibrant wallpaper and dark, rich colours 'Bridge of Spies' is a Steven Spielberg movie is a thriller is inspired by the true events of the war and the capture of an American pilot in 1960 (pictured) Just a short walk from the Guest House Villa Fritz in Potsdam, Germany, sits the Glienicke Bridge a popular spot for Russian and American spies to meet during the Cold War and a prominent plot point in the movie 'Bridge of Spies'. The Steven Spielberg movie is a thriller is inspired by the true events of the war and the capture of an American pilot in 1960. Negotiations between the two countries led to a very tense exchange of prisoners on the Glienicke Bridge. The Villa is cosy and warmly decorated with vibrant wallpaper and dark, rich colours. Holidaymakers can stay for two nights in the 'Deluxe Room' at the Guest House Villa Fritz from AUD $302 (US $125) this weekend - from Friday to Sunday - after the Oscars. The Nimb Hotel in Copenhagan, Denmark, is a boutique hotel (pictured) featured in 'The Danish Girl' The impressive stylish boutique hotel features designer bedrooms with flat-screen TVs and breathtaking views of natural surroundings The movie is loosely inspired by the lives of Danish Painters Lili Elbe one of the first known people to undergo sex reassignment surgery and her partner Gerda Wegener The grand Moorish-style hotel is striking with white exterior with dozens of arches and intricate yet delicate details. Inside, the rooms are modern and feature wooden floorboards with simple but elegant furniture 'The Danish Girl' (pictured) star Eddie Redmayne (left) was nominated for Best Male Performance and his costar Alicia Vikander took home Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role at the Oscars The Nimb Hotel in Copenhagan, Denmark, is a boutique hotel featured in 'The Danish Girl'. The grand Moorish-style hotel is striking with white exterior with dozens of pointed arches and intricate yet delicate details. Inside, the rooms are modern and feature wooden floorboards with simple but elegant furniture. 'The Danish Girl' star Eddie Redmayne was nominated for Best Male Performance and his costar Alicia Vikander took home Best Performance by an Actress in a Supporting Role at the Oscars. The movie is loosely inspired by the lives of Danish Painters Lili Elbe one of the first known people to undergo sex reassignment surgery and her partner Gerda Wegener. Holidaymakers can stay for two nights in the 'Deluxe Double Room at the Nimb Hotel from AUD $2,005 (US $1430) this weekend - from Friday to Sunday - after the Oscars. The Plaza Hotel (pictured) in New York is seen in Cate Blanchett's recent movie 'Carol' and is a well-known historic hotel The luxurious and spacious rooms at The Plaza offer the latest technology of in-room iPads and boast modern bathrooms with 24-karat gold platted fixtures The Plaza is a New York staple and sits right in the heart of the city by 5th Avenue The large and elegantly decorated rooms have 24-karat gold platted features (pictured) Cate Blanchett portrays an unhappy woman divorcing her husband in the 1950s who falls in love with another woman (pictured) The Plaza Hotel in New York is the setting for Cate Blanchett's recent movie 'Carol', in which she portrays an unhappy woman divorcing her husband in the 1950s who falls in love with another woman. The Plaza is a New York staple and sits right in the heart of the city by 5th Avenue. The large and elegantly decorated rooms have 24-karat gold platted features. It houses numerous well-known bars and restaurants and is famous for its afternoon tea service. Holidaymakers can stay for two nights in the 'Delux King Room' at the The Plaza from AUD $2,333 (US $1665) this weekend - from Friday to Sunday - after the Oscars. The Press Hotel in Portland, Maine, was the setting for the closing scene of this year's Best Picture 'Spotlight' (pictured) The hotel features modern furnitures throughout the rooms and breathtaking views of the city nightlife and natural surroundings The building (pictured) that once housed the Portland Press Herald is the perfect setting for the movie that depicts investigative journalists at The Boston Globe The hotel has maintained its newspaper roots and is furnished with vintage desks and chairs, typewriters and letters on the carpet and walls The Press Hotel in Portland, Maine, was the setting for the closing scene of this year's Best Picture 'Spotlight'. The building that once housed the Portland Press Herald is the perfect setting for the movie that depicts investigative journalists at The Boston Globe. 'Spotlight' is inspired by The Boston Globe editor Marty Baron's decision to assign a team of journalists to investigate a priest who was accused of molesting more than 80 boys. The hotel has maintained its newspaper roots and is furnished with vintage desks and chairs, typewriters and letters on the carpet and walls. Holidaymakers can stay for two nights in the 'Superior Double Room with City View at the Press Hotel from AUD $667 (US $475) this weekend - from Thursday to Saturday - as Friday and Sunday has been booked out - after the Oscars. A man who was told he had a week to live laughed in the face of death, and won. Melbourne man, Merv Neal, now 59, wanted to be a multi-millionaire but three days after he achieved his goal he was in hospital dying. 'The moment the money hit the bank account I was rushed to hospital and diagnosed with a multitude of situations and diseases,' he said in a documentary produced by PLGRM. Mr Neal was suffering from aplastic anaemia, a devastating illness which stops the body from being able to produce new blood cells. He told Daily Mail Australia that he had been sick for years but had been too busy focusing on becoming a multi-millionaire to deal with the symptoms. Scroll down for video Merv Neal (pictured) had just become a multi-millionaire when he was told he had just one week left to live. He laughed at doctors, and continued to laugh so much they noticed his condition improving He survived and was cleared of sickness after seven months but laughter is now a way of life for him - his grandchildren including the one pictured now call him 'laughing poppy' because he is always laughing He teaches laughing yoga, and laughing workshops and says fake laughs work the same as real ones 'I had been bleeding internally and externally for years,' Mr Neal said. 'I would wake up in the morning and there would be blood on my pillow, and I would just make an excuse about having a bad tooth.' Mr Neal says when he was first told by doctors he had a week to live he just laughed out loud. 'They asked me why I was laughing and I just didn't know. 'The whole thing was absurd I had finally reached my goal, sold my company and the money was in the bank and I find out I'm dying days later and wouldn't be able to enjoy it. 'I went home and just kept laughing, my family (wife and three children) were all in shock. 'They asked me why I was laughing and I didn't know so I just asked why they were crying.' He spent days laughing while planning his funeral, he wrote down who he wanted there, who he didn't and which David Bowie songs he wanted to be played. His go-to laughing exercise is saying ho, ho, ha, ha, ha out loud, it uses the same muscles as real laughter HOW CAN WE LAUGH MORE Merv Neal now conducts laughing classes, laughing yoga and is currently writing a book on laughing. He has shared five tips with us about how we can ensure we laugh every day. 1- Develop a sense of humour: It helps us get through so many things and is important. 2- Play: When we play it brings back our childhood playfulness and helps us to remember how to laugh. 3- Hangout with healthy, happy people: They will make you feel happier - if you have toxic friends it is easier to go off the rails. 4- Become that healthy, happy person people want to hang out with: The more happy people in your life the better. 5- Enjoy life, don't endure it: Take steps to make sure the life you are leading is a happy one, and make changes if you need to. Merve's go to exercise is to say ho, ho, ha, ha, ha this phrase uses the same muscles as those used during genuine laughter. Advertisement When his symptoms started improving doctors who had previously told him 'there was no hope' referred him to a doctor who guided him through his recovery. 'My new doctor told me that the laughter was trying to heal my body. 'We had weekly appointments where he would just make me laugh and laugh. 'At last I had some hope and my reaction to death which I had not understood finally made some sense.' He kept the laughing up at home and saw his doctor once a week for scheduled laughing sessions. While he was sick he had just one friend, his dog Russell. 'You learn who your real friends are when things like this happen and I realised I didn't have any. 'I told my dog everything, he was my mate and helped me get through it.' Because his body could not make new blood cells he was tired all the time, but his dog got him off the couch and moving. 'He would look at me as if to say "get off that sad sorry ass and do something" so I would take him for walks. He had also become addicted to oysters a food he had hated previously. 'I would take Russell for a walk, come home and eat oysters, go to sleep and wake up and take him for another walk again.' He says he has not been seriously sick since he was cleared by doctors seven years ago, and has such a strong immune system that he doesn't even come down with colds or flues anymore He was laughing the whole time and after seven-months his doctor told him he didn't need to come back. He was cured. 'I don't know if it was the laughter or the walking or the oysters but I got better.' It has been 12 years since he was told he would die, now laughing is his life and he feels healthier than ever. 'I haven't been sick for years. 'I don't even get colds or flues because my immune system is so strong.' The man who was known as a ruthless business man had been going through a tough period at work selling his IT company. He had been drinking too much and was under a lot of stress and says he never took the time out to laugh unless it was at the expense of others. He believes that is because he laughs every day. When he first got sick he would sit in the chair pictured above and just laugh, while planning his own funeral, including who was welcome and who definitely wasn't He now spends the whole day laughing and is known as 'laughing poppy' by his grandchildren. 'My kids love it I went from serious, strict dad to fun dad. The work-a-holic, money-addicted, goal-setter now laughs for a living, two days a week. He divides the rest of his time between not-for-profit laughing workshops, and writing a book on his experience and conducting laughing-yoga sessions. 'So many people I see now are stressed to the max and work harder and harder for the things they don't need. 'The treadmill of greed and power is very hard to get off, but I have learnt that finance is not a barrier for me anymore.' He has started his laughing business because he believes it cured him and no body deserves to suffer When Mr Neale was seriously sick he said he didn't feel bad. 'It is impossible not to feel good when you're laughing all the time,' he said. 'It shifts your state of mind and everything is ok. 'Even if it is just simulated laughter the body still thinks you are laughing so it does the same thing.' Mr Neale wants people to 'enjoy life not endure it' and has dedicated his second chance to bringing laughter to the world. 'No one deserves to suffer, I don't want people to have to suffer like I did.' The millionaire's obsession for money began when he started his first business at 12. He would rent out parking spaces in his front yard and driveway during busy periods to make extra money. The local newspaper did an article on him and said he would be a millionaire before 40 so he worked toward that. When he reached his goal he decided he want to double his fortune by the time he was 45. His new goal is not related to wealth he just wants to live until he is 100 and says he will keep healthy by continuing to laugh everyday. He will always be a goal-setter but says his goals are less to do with money now and more to do with lifestyle A young woman wants to find the heroic Telstra worker who charged into a burning house and saved her life nearly 20 years ago - so she can tell him about the wonderful life she's led since. Maria Celina Santos, then 7, was at home alone on November 17, 1997, when a spark danced between her portable air conditioner and the bookshelf. 'Everything just caught on fire really fast,' recalls Ms Santos. Not knowing what to do, she ran into her parent's bedroom and called her father. 'Get out of the house!' he cried down the line. That's the last thing she remembers. A piece of the ceiling fell on her head and knocked her out. Her older brother Chino, who had ducked up the road taking their other brother Paolo to school, saw the smoke from afar. So too did telecommunications worker Paul Turner, who, fatefully, was fixing an electrical box up the road. 'I just want to say thank you': Maria Celina Santos, pictured right age 7, wants to tell Paul Turner (foreground) about all the wonderful experiences she has had thanks to his bravery so many years ago Happy and healthy: Mr Turner rescued Ms Santos (right), now 26, from a burning home when she was a little girl, at great risk to his own life. Now she wants to tell him how much it means to her Ms Santos (pictured with friends) said she had recently reflected upon the 'second chance' she had been given - and the opportunity to have a fulfilling life over the years 'I think I'm old enough now to really appreciate not everyone would have walked into a burning house to save a stranger,' said Ms Santos, who is pictured during her recent wedding Alarmed at what he saw, and hearing the news a little girl was trapped inside, Mr Turner broke through the front door and - braving the flames and billowing smoke - dragged Maria's tiny body to safety. Everyone thought she was dead, and the Year 2 student would have been - if not for the efforts of Mr Turner and, later, ambulance workers, who performed CPR. She spent weeks in hospital in an induced coma.The flames spared her body, although she suffered a collapsed lung. WHAT MARIA CELINA SANTOS KNOWS ABOUT PAUL TURNER.... He worked for Telstra repairing telecommunications boxes in 1997 Lived in St Marys in Sydney's western suburbs around 1997-1998 Was married to a woman named Allison and had a son named Jayden Received some kind of bravery award in 1998 He knew her as Celina, her middle name, rather than Maria Advertisement 'My mum hates talking about it and stuff, but apparently the doctor had prepared them by talking about taking me off life support.' Thankfully, it did not work out that way. She made a full recovery. And in the decades since, Ms Santos has had a fulfilling life. But she has not seen Mr Turner, who was from the nearby suburb of St Marys, since he received a bravery award in 1998. Ms Santos wants to thank him again and put the enormity of what he did that day into words. 'I think I'm old enough now to really appreciate not everyone would have walked into a burning house to save a stranger,' she told Daily Mail Australia. 'Last week me and my partner were talking about stuff and I thought, it'd be really good to kind of see him to show him I had a great life because of him.' Ms Santos said there was much she wanted to tell him about. Maria Celina Santos wed her partner Marian in a ceremony on the NSW northern beaches last December After being saved by a stranger, Maria Santos (right) got to meet Marian (left), her 'high school sweetheart' In the years since her dramatic rescue, Ms Santos's family fell out of contact with Mr Turner She wants to tell Mr Turner is about her success as a marathon runner - and struggles with an eating disorder Thankfully, Maria, her family and her rescuers survived the ferocious blaze which claimed their home Maria's career was touched by Mr Turner's bravery - she's now working for NSW Ambulance 'I'd want him to meet my partner who I just got married to,' she said. 'We were high school sweethearts.' 'I struggled with an eating disorder for awhile and pulled myself out of it... I'm a marathon runner now. 'I guess I just want to tell him about my life.' Her career was touched by Mr Turner's bravery. Ms Santos is working at NSW Ambulance as a call-taker, a choice she attributes to what he showed her that November day. 'I think he was part of the reason I've always wanted to help other people.... I always think someone like him exists.' But, if she manages to finally get back in touch with Mr Turner, there's really just one thing she sees herself doing. 'I just want to say thank you to him -and probably cry heaps,' she laughed. Do you know more? Contact this reporter on daniel.piotrowski@mailonline.com Chris Rock (pictured) hosted the Academy Awards, where twelve people of color handed out awards The Oscars had 12 black presenters amidst the #OscarsSoWhite controversy on Sunday night. Among the presenters were Common, Morgan Freeman, Whoopi Goldberg, Louis Gossett, Jr. and Kevin Hart. While other races made up the 47 presenters of the night, the majority - 30 people - were white. Other ethnicity included two Latin Americans, Benicio del Toro and Sofia Vergara and two people of Indian descent, Dev Patel and Priyanka Chopra. Lee Byung-hun, who is South Korean, and Olivia Munn, who is half Japanese also presented awards. The Weeknd and Chris Rock also added to the people of color who took the stage on Oscar Sunday. Rock immediately acknowledged white-dominated Hollywood racism during the most eagerly anticipated opening monologue in recent history at the 88th Academy Awards. Addressing the huge elephant in the room, the acid-tongued comedian, 51, compared Tinseltown to a bitchy racist sorority and jibbed at cops for killing black men as he riffed on the #OscarsSoWhite race row, which overshadowed this years ceremony. 'Is Hollywood racist? ... you're damn right,' said Rock to the audience in the Dolby Theater as he excoriated the film industry for its racial bias on the biggest night in show business. Morgan Freeman gave out the biggest honor of the night by presenting Spotlight with the award for best picture Whoopi Goldberg (left) and Kevin Hart (right) were two of 12 black presenters at the 88th Academy Awards Rapper and poet Common (left) and singer John Legend (right) were other presenters of color at the Oscars Actor Abraham Attah (left) and Kerry Washington (right) also took to the stage to hand out Rock reminded everyone in the theater and at home of the lack of diversity in Hollywood, with the host finishing the ceremony by saying 'Black Lives Matter'. During the show, the Reverend Al Sharpton led dozens of protesters at the #OscarsSoWhite boycott near the Dolby Theater in Los Angeles, where the show was being held. As Sharpton led the protests in Los Angeles, director Spike Lee donned a tuxedo while attending a New York Knicks basketball game at Madison Square Garden in his own form of protest. A number of black celebrities boycotted the show all together and instead went to Flint, Michigan, for a #JusticeForFlint rally to bring relief to victims of the water crisis. Actor Michael B. Jordan, who starred in the film Creed with Sylvester Stalone, was among the presenters Happy singer Pharrell Williams (left) and Quincy Jones (right) presented the award for best original score A woman whose husband, brother and cousin were all sexually abused as children in Ballarat has hit back at controversial News Corp columnist Miranda Devine who said there had been a lynch mob attacking Cardinal George Pell. Ms Devine on Sunday wrote the opinion piece for the Daily Telegraph in response to growing dissatisfaction with Cardinal Pell who on Monday gave evidence into the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sex Abuse from Rome after his doctor provided a certificate that he was unfit to fly to Australia to give evidence in person. Survivors of abuse suffered over past decades in Ballarat and their supporters instead journeyed to Rome to hear him give evidence in person, believing it would help overcome trauma. Clare Linane later hit back on Facebook in a post thats since been shared more than 2,000 times. Scroll down for video Clare Linane's husband Peter Blenkiron was sexually abused by Brother Edward Dowlan in 1974 and is in Rome to watch Cardinal George Pell give evidence Cardinal George Pell, appearing at the Victorian Government inquiry into child abuse in Melbourne in 2013 My husband, Peter Blenkiron, was sexually abused by Brother Edward Dowlan in 1974 and is currently in Rome. My brother and cousin were also sexually abused by Dowlan, she wrote. I am also proud to call myself a friend of David Ridsdale, Tony Wardley, Phil Nagle, Andrew Collins, Stephen Woods, Tim Lane, Rob Walsh, Gordon Hill, Dominic Ridsdale, Gary Sculley, Paul Auchettl and Paul Levey; some of whom are in Rome and some of whom have remained in Ballarat during Pells testimony. Ms Linane said she was not an expert on all things Royal Commission, I do have a genuine, personal insight into these men, their motivations and attitude towards George Pell. Pictured: Clare Linane, wife of child sex abuse survivor Peter Blenkiron Ms Linane hit back via social media at News Corp columnist Miranda Devine's opinion piece in which she referred to the abuse survivors as an 'unofficial lynch mob' Ms Devine had written it would be a self-invited group of about 120, including 50 journalists and assorted victims, supporters and Pell-haters would be watching Cardinal Pell give evidence as an 'unofficial lynch mob'. To that, Ms Linane said referring to the abuse survivors as assorted victims was offensive. Assorted victims? Theyre a group of admirable, brave and yet fundamentally damaged men, most of whom have PTSD [Post Traumatic Stress Disorder]. They have survived this far in spite of being raped, assaulted and damaged for life as children. Please do not speak about them like theyre a big of mixed lollies. Cardinal Pell swearing on the Bible before giving evidence before the Royal Commission into Child Sex Abuse in Rome via video link Her husband Mr Blenkiron arrived at the airport to watch Cardinal Pell give evidence in Rome today She said Tim Minchins controversial song Come Home which aired on Channel Tens The Project and called Cardinal Pell scum and a coward had captured our anger. We have nothing but gratitude to him for his assistance, Ms Linane wrote. I invite you to come and spend the day in my hometown. Come meet with me, in my home. Meet my husband, meet my brother, and meet my friends. Meet the mums who are heart-broken at losing their sons. Let us tell you about some of our friends and family who took their own lives, because they didnt know how to teal the pain they had lived with since they were five, six, 11, 12-years-old. A large red banner reads 'Pope Must Act: Sack Pell' among other signs criticising the Church Peter Blenkiron, a victim of priestly sex abuse wearing a t-shirt showing him at the age in which he was abused, holds some papers as he meets reporters in front of the Quirinale hotel in Rome on Sunday Cardinal Pell is seen on a screen as he gives evidence to the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse via video link from Rome in Canberra on Monday Ms Linane said Ms Devine was correct when she said only one of 43 suicides could confirmed to be related to child sexual abuse in the Victorian Church. However, Ms Linane quoted her husband as saying: Unless you put a post it note on your head and say Im committing suicide because I was sexually abused, it is very easy to dismiss individual cases. The reality is, many of the victims themselves dont make the connection. Of Phil Nagles 1974 grade four class at St Alepius, 12 out of 34 (35 per cent) are dead, by premature death including suicide. Abuse survivors led by David Ridsdale (centre) arrive at the Quirinale Hotel to watch Cardinal George Pell give evidence to the child abuse royal commission, in Rome, Italy Victims and relatives of children who claim they were sexually abused by the Catholic Church hold placards as they stand outside the venue for Australia's Royal Commission into Institutional Response to Child Sexual Abuse in Sydney, Australia Ms Linane said she hoped the Commission would look further into why broader patterns such as these were not considered when the internal police investigation was conducted. She said her husband Mr Blenkiron had at the lowest point in his life lost his sense of self-esteem, and battled suicidal thoughts daily. So Miranda, no; I am not worried about Georges frail health whilst he testifies. Im sure he will be fine. Im far more worried about my husband and friends. To conclude, let me remind you of why these survivors have travelled to Rome at all. It is not about them as individuals, and is not about Pell. Ms Linane said they had travelled to Rome to ensure the Church commits to implementing a national redress scheme to assist survivors with medical costs, and day-to-day costs for those unable to earn a living due to their PTSD. She also called for a national education program within schools, a healing centre for Ballarat survivors, a peer support program for men in the severely affected regions, and an immediate strategy to remove all paedophiles from the Catholic Church entirely, in all countries, and assist police with criminal investigations in all countries. Paul Levely, a child sex abuse victim, wears a t-shirt that says 'no more silence' and shows a tattoo on his arm as he stands in front of the Quirinale hotel in Rome, Italy Australian 'survivors' of sex abuse outside the Quirinale Hotel in Rome, Italy Chris Rock enlisted the help of actress Angela Bassett to underscore the lack of diversity in this year's Oscars nominees by overlooking Will Smith in a satirical skit. Bassett set the scene for honoring a black actor in the prerecorded segment titled 'Black History Month Minute: Oscars Edition'. She listed the unnamed actor's previous work, including Enemy of The State and Shark Tale, misleading audiences into thinking Will Smith would be recognized after he was snubbed for his role in Concussion. But Bassett delivered the punchline by awarding the honor of 'acknowledging people of color' to Jack Black instead. Chris Rock enlisted the help of actress Angela Bassett to underscore the lack of diversity in this year's Oscars nominees by overlooking Will Smith in a satirical skit by honoring Jack Black instead (right) The Concussion actor had come under fire in the months leading up to the 88th Academy Awards for boycotting the ceremony along with his wife and director Spike Lee. The decision sparked a discussion about diversity within Hollywood, with big names clamoring in to both deride and support the boycott. Bassett, who famously played Tina Turner in the 1993 biopic What's Love Got to Do with It, had backed Rock's role in hosting the Oscars this year after many called for him to step down. She told Yahoo Movies: 'There was talk about should he, should he not? You can't effect change if youre not in the room. 'You cant effect change if you refuse to vote. You have to make your views voiced and your spirit known. Chris Rock acknowledged racism within the film industry at several points throughout the night and ended the entire show by saying 'Black Lives Matter'. But he also made Will and Jada the butt of his jokes in the highly-anticipated opening monologue. In one of Rock's first zingers aimed at the Hollywood power couple, he said: 'It's not fair that Will Smith was this good in 'Concussion and didn't get nominated. It's also not fair that Will was paid $20million for 'Wild Wild West!''. Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith (right) sparked a discussion about race in Hollywood after their decision not to attend the a Oscars due to a lack of diversity in the Best Actor categories for the second year in a row Spike Lee (pictured) boycotted the ceremony as well, issuing the statement: '40 White Actors In 2 Years And No Flava At All. We Cant Act?! WTF!!' He then launched into a joke about Jada Pinkett Smith, so lewd that some who heard it beforehand thought he wouldn't use it at the primetime ceremony. 'What happened this year? Jada's going to boycott the Oscars. Jada boycotting the Oscars is like me boycotting Rihanna's panties. I wasn't invited! It's not an invitation I would turn down,' said a laughing Rock. Smith previously said he unaware that Jada had released the video explaining her decision to not to attend this year's awards ceremony. He explained on BBC Radio 1's Breakfast Show: 'I was in Thailand. And I get off of the plane and you know, the paparazzi [were like], "Will, Will, you're not going to the Oscars! What do you think about Jada's video? A man accused of going on a violent rampage and attacking complete strangers has been caught stamping on a mans unresponsive body in disturbing CCTV footage. Ricky Hema, 35, has been charged with four counts of assault after allegedly attacking four people in a two hours episode across the Sydneys west and inner west, in the suburbs of Punchbowl, Belfield and Campsie on January 27, Seven News reports. The shocking footage taken in Campsie shows the attacker approach a young man from behind and punch the victim forcefully in the side of the head, with the man seen crumpling to the floor. The 27-year-old victim is then made to suffer through a number of brutal kicks to the head, reportedly rendering him unconscious and leaving him with serious head injuries. A man accused of going on a violent rampage and attacking complete strangers has been caught jumping on a mans unresponsive body in disturbing CCTV footage The shocking footage taken in Campsie shows the attacker approach a young man from behind and punch the victim forcefully in the side of the head, with the man seen crumpling to the floor The 27-year-old victim is then made to suffer through a number of brutal kicks to the head, reportedly rendering him unconscious and leaving him with serious head injuries As the victim lays motionless and injured on the ground the perpetrator decides to inflict his most brutal blow; taking a flying leap through the air and landing straight onto the mans head. The victim was taken to St George Hospital to be treated for his head injuries, according to Seven News. Hema reportedly also assaulted a 72-year-old man and 46-year-old man in a Punchbowl bar before shoulder charging a 46-year-old man at a bar in the neighbouring suburb of Belfield, Seven News reports. As the victim lays motionless and injured on the ground the perpetrator decides to inflict his most brutal blow; taking a flying leap through the air and landing straight onto the mans head Advertisement He already weighs in at more than 200 kilograms but baby rhino Humphrey still has plenty of growing ahead of him. The four-month-old white rhinoceros has recently joined the rest of his family, known as a 'crash', at Australia Zoo in the Sunshine Coast hinterland. 'We're really happy with his progress as he continues to grow up a happy, active and quite social calf,' zookeeper Manu Ludden said. Humphrey was born in October last year to mother Caballe and his birth marked a 'significant milestone' in Australia Zoo's breeding program. The endangered white rhino is the second largest land mammal after the elephant, with adult males weighing up to 3,600 kilograms. They are poached for their horns, particularly in South Africa. Scroll down for video Humphrey, the white rhino calf, knocks horns with an adult rhino at Australia Zoo's African savannah exhibition The four-month-old calf is settling into daily life extremely well, bonding happily with the rest of the rhino family and keeping everyone entertained with a few cheeky calf antics Humphrey currently weighs 200kg but is expected to grow up to 3,600 kilograms. The endangered white rhino is the second largest land mammal after the elephant Humphrey was born in October last year to mother Caballe and his birth marked a 'significant milestone' in Australia Zoo's breeding program This is the shocking moment a mid-flight punch up began between a British stag party that forced a packed Ryanair jet they were travelling on to make an unscheduled landing. The 12-man group from Southampton, led by groom-to-be Joshua Marriner, 26, had been on the flight from London to Bratislava when their drunken antics caused the pilot to make an unexpected stop in Berlin. Six of the men were then hauled off the aircraft after some of the group allegedly grew irate at the decision by cabin crew to refuse to serve them more alcohol. Mr Mariner slammed the 'unacceptable' behaviour of his two friends this morning and insisted: 'I was not involved at all.' Footage has emerged showing the moment a mid-flight punch-up began between a stag party, which forced their flight from London to Bratislava to make an unscheduled landing in Berlin One man threatens another one of the party saying he would stab him in the face with a fork, causing one of the men to lash out and throw punches, with another man forced to hold him back The Sun has obtained footage taken on board the flight, showing two members of the group, named as Tom and Jamie, trading four-letter insults before becoming embroiled in a punch up. As the row becomes heated, a fellow passenger carrying a baby even asks them to calm down. But despite her plea they continue to bicker, and one even threatens the other man saying: 'I would rather stab you in the face with a fork. No disrespect to you, but I hate you.' The man sat down in the seat then appears to lightly slap the other man's face, causing him to lash out and try to throw punches before being held back by another member of the party. A flight attendant then comes over to the group and the footage ends after he asks a fellow passenger to stop filming. The video comes after a picture also emerged of the party all smiling and posing for the camera before they boarded the flight at Luton Airport. But now six members of the stag party who were arrested in Berlin all face fines of up to 20,000 for causing the plane to make an unexpected landing. At Luton Airport: Posing for the camera shortly before boarding the plane, this is the British stag party whose drunken antics caused a Ryanair flight to make an unexpected landing. Groom-to-be Joshua Mariner is circled along with the man who started throwing the punches Happy couple: Mr Mariner, who is due to wed fiancee Abi Whitmore (pictured together with their one-year-old daughter), was the groom-to-be whose 12-man group forced the diversion of a London to Bratislava flight The groom-to-be whose stag party forced a flight to be diverted because of alleged drunken behaviour has been named as Joshua Mariner. He is pictured right next to his fiancee Abi Whitmore and brother Sam (left) German police initially said groom-to-be Mr Mariner, a building company director, was one of those arrested but he claims this was not the case. He blamed his two friends - who started an arguing on the flight from Luton Airport - for why the plane had to land in Berlin, Germany. Speaking today in Southampton, he said: 'I was not involved at all. 'The German police said that I was arrested, but I wasn't arrested. 'I made it to Bratislava and I got back last night, because, like I said, I wasn't involved. 'It was two people, and it was bad behaviour and that's that - I was not involved. 'The lads' behaviour was unacceptable and they will now have to suffer the consequences of their actions. 'It was reported by German police that I was one of the lads arrested which isn't true and I will be seeking legal advice as it has caused a lot of distress for me and my family.' Mr Mariner, a father-of-one, is due to wed fiancee Abi Whitmore, 29, in March. Meanwhile a fellow passenger on board the flight told MailOnline that the group were so drunk they 'struggled to walk' before boarding at Luton Airport. It is also claimed that one of the men stripped naked in front of the 170 passengers. Alexander Koller, 46, from Margate, Kent, was on the flight and branded the group a 'disgrace' but also criticised the airline and German authorities over their handling of the situation. Groom-to-be: Mr Mariner (right), who is due to wed fiancee Abi Whitmore (left) , was onboard the Ryanair 737-800 when several members of his 12-man bachelor party reportedly became unruly and aggressive Mr Mariner (right) describes himself as a partition and ceiling specialist and director of his own building company on his LinkedIn page. He is pictured with his brothers Tom and Sam in a family photo The Boeing 737-800 was due to fly to Bratislava in Slovakia but was forced to divert to Berlin The Austrian tour lecturer told MailOnline: 'The passengers were a disgrace - by the way, (they were) not the only drunken, obnoxious people on this flight by any means. 'The fact that they were allowed to board at all after making a huge nuisance of themselves in the departure hall at Luton and being so drunk that some were struggling to stand, was an even bigger disgrace. 'It was a total failure by Ryanair's ground staff at the gate and by the cabin crew who should have spotted them. This was not hard given that they were extremely loud and obnoxious whilst boarding and finding their seats.' A spokesman for Ryanair said the airline has 'strict guidelines' to deal with disruptive and drunk customers. But Mr Koller believes the whole incident could have been avoided. A Ryanair aircraft flying between London to Bratislava was forced to divert due to an unruly stag party The flight took off from London Luton airport and was forced to divert as it passed over central Germany The captain radioed air traffic control at Berlin's Schoenefeld Airport (pictured) and the nine-year-old aircraft was greeted at the terminal by German federal police Describing the moments after landing at the German capital, he added: 'The operation in Berlin was pathetic, with German airport police not speaking a word of English and needing a translator, proceeding without any plan and the six of them waiting for about 10 minutes in the aisle near the door to be taken away. DO YOU KNOW ANY MEMBERS OF THE STAG PARTY OR THE BRIDE? Get in touch with us on 0203 615 2611 or email jennifer.newton@mailonline.co.uk Advertisement 'This was potentially a very dangerous situation. The only saving grace was that these people were not only drunk and vulgar, but also so stupid that they thought they could simply carry on partying in Berlin for which reason they did not seem to mind being taken off the plane. 'There is often no accounting for the baseness of human behaviour. In this case, however, it was extremely easy to spot. The situation was entirely preventable.' The aircraft took off from Luton at 6pm on Friday and was about an hour into the flight and cruising at 37,000 feet, over the spa town of Bad Frankenhausen, Thuringia, when the incident happened. The flight landed within 30 minutes in Berlin's Schoenefeld Airport. The captain radioed air traffic control and the nine-year-old aircraft was greeted at the terminal by German federal police, according to Spiegel Online. In total, there were 170 passengers and crew on board the aircraft. In a statement, German Federal Police confirmed: 'During the flight, six of the 12-member group interfered with safety on board.' The aircraft took off after the six men were removed following an hour-long delay. The other six men reportedly continued their journey to Slovakia. The detainees were later released after police took their details. They will be due to return to Germany at a later date to appear in court. A spokesman for Ryanair told MailOnline: 'This flight from London Luton to Bratislava diverted to Berlin after a number of passengers became disruptive in-flight. 'The aircraft landed normally and police removed and detained these individuals at Berlin Schonefeld Airport. 'We will not tolerate unruly or disruptive behaviour at any time and the safety and comfort of our customers, crew and aircraft is our number one priority. This is now a matter for local police.' Zafke was jailed for three years because of his S.S. membership Indictment says prisoners were gassed while Hubert Zafke was on duty The trial of a former SS medic on 3,681 counts of accessory to murder for allegedly helping the Nazis' Auschwitz death camp function appeared close to collapse today. Proceedings against 95-year-old Hubert Zafke were due to begin this morning in Neubrandenburg near Berlin. But a doctor found the 95-year-old unfit to be transported to the court and Judge Klaus Kabisch told the court hat proceedings could not begin. Medics on the weekend found Hubert Zafke was suffering from stress and high blood pressure, and had suicidal thoughts. Scroll down for video Hubert Zafke served as S.S. medic at Auschwitz Nazi extermination camp and was on duty when Jewish diarist Anne Frank arrived Zafke was sentenced by a Polish court because of his S.S. membership to three years in jail, returning to Neubrandenburg in Germany after serving his time Kabisch said Zafke had told the doctor 'I can't take it anymore, I'm at my end,' and that 'I want to be with mother.' The judge said the latter was a reference to Zafke's wife, who died in 2011. The trial's opening was postponed until the next session on March 14. Prosecutors say Zafke's unit was involved in putting gas into gas chambers to kill Jews and others, screening blood and other samples from women prisoners in hospital, and otherwise helping the camp run by treating SS guard personnel. They say the unit was also involved in auxiliary guard duties. Zafke's lawyer insists his client did nothing criminal at Auschwitz. The charges relate to a one-month period in 1944 and involve 14 transports of Jews, including Anne Frank and her family. Frank died later in Bergen-Belsen. The trial of a former SS medic on 3,681 counts of accessory to murder for allegedly helping the Nazis' Auschwitz death camp function appeared close to collapse today. Court staff are pictured above Prosecutor Thomas Walther (left) speaks to the media on the first day of the trial of Hubert Zafke, a former medic of the Waffen-SS When the trial opens at Neubrandenburg state court today, judges are expected to evaluate whether Zafke is fit to stand trial. Zafke served at the premier Nazi extermination facility in Nazi occupied Poland as a medic and claims he took no part in the estimated 1.2 million murders of Jews and others that took place there. The indictment says that prisoners in the medical block at Auschwitz-Birkenau - the part of the camp where the gas chambers were located - were murdered while Zafke was on duty. According to the indictment Zafke is accused of knowing that he worked in an extermination camp and that he was 'supportive of the running of this extermination camp.' They added; 'Given his awareness, the accused lent support to the organisation of the camp and was thereby both involved in and advanced the extermination with these cruel and insidious killings of at least 3,681 people.' In 1948 he was sentenced by a Polish court because of his S.S. membership to three years in jail, returning to Neubrandenburg in Germany after serving his time. Anne Frank came in on a train from Holland's Westerbork concentration camp on September 5 1944 carrying 498 men, 442 women and 79 children Anne, whose memoir of a life in hiding from the Nazis became the single most poignant piece of Holocaust literature, was later transferred to the Belsen concentration camp in Germany Zafka was present when Anne Frank came in on a train from Holland's Westerbork concentration camp on September 5 1944 carrying 498 men, 442 women and 79 children. In all, say prosecutors, work rosters found bearing his name show he was present when 14 trains bringing prisoners arrived at the complex that was part death camp, part slave labour facility. ANNE FRANK'S DIARY: A CHRONICLE OF A VICTIM OF THE HOLOCAUST Anne Frank wrote her diary while in hiding from Nazi persecution during World War II. By 1940 the Nazis had occupied the Netherlands, leaving the family trapped. In 1942 the family went into hiding in secret rooms of Otto Frank's office building. But after two years the group were anonymously betrayed and were sent to their deaths at the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, where Anne died of typhus in 1945. Otto Frank, Anne's father, returned to Amsterdam after the war and discovered her diary had been saved. It was published in 1947, leading to her posthumous fame. Advertisement Anne, whose memoir of a life in hiding from the Nazis became the single most poignant piece of Holocaust literature, was later transferred to the Belsen concentration camp in Germany where she died early in 1945. Although classed as a medic, such personnel at Auschwitz were not concerned with the health of inmates, but often poured in the Zyklon-B pesticide crystals into the gas chamber to murder them. The indictment shows that Zafke, who now lives in the tiny village of Gnevkow north of Berlin, joined the Hitler Youth when he was a teenager in his hometown of Schoenau, which now lies in Poland. The son of a farmer, he attended high school and an agricultural college intending to follow in his father's footsteps. In 1933, aged 13, he joined the Hitler Youth and six years later was in the S.S. He received his grounding in concentration camp training at Dachau, the first of the Nazi camps where 36,000 people were murdered during its 12 years of operation. As a junior squad leader - a rank usually given to men singled out as future officer material - Zafke transferred to Auschwitz in the summer of 1944. He is charged with being accomplice to the murders of the 3,681 victims between August 14 and September 14, 1944. The indictment says that prisoners in the medical block at Auschwitz-Birkenau (pictured) - the part of the camp where the gas chambers were located - were murdered while Zafke was on duty. Prosecutors said: 'He is not charged with any single specific murder but as a functionary in the Nazi murder machine which he enabled.' Auschwitz was liberated by the Red Army on January 27 1945, now World Holocaust Day, but Zafke had already gone west and fell into British hands. He was later transferred back to Poland where he was given his jail sentence in 1948 for his membership in the S.S. and service at Auschwitz. He returned to Germany, married and fathered four sons in Gnevekow. He made a career out of manufacturing and selling agricultural products including pesticides like Zyklon B. Gnevkow lay in former East Germany. When the wall fell and archives in Poland, East Germany and former Soviet Russia became accessible, he came on to the radar of Nazi hunters. HOW A NEW LEGAL PRECEDENT SPARKED A NEW WAVE OF PROSECUTIONS For many decades, Germany only tried Nazi officers for atrocities they personally committed and usually required eye-witness testimony for a conviction. However, a new legal precedent was set in the 2009-2011 trial of John Demjanjuk, a Ukrainian-born guard at the Sobibor death camp in occupied Poland, who was convicted at age 91 of having aided in the mass killings. Demjanjuk's verdict widened the number of possible prosecutions, establishing that simply helping the camp to function was enough to make the guard an accessory to the murders committed there. Prosecutors managed to successfully convict SS Unterscharfuehrer Oskar Groening (left and right), who served in Auschwitz, on 300,000 counts of accessory to murder Before that, prosecutors needed to present evidence of a specific crime, which was a difficult task given the small number of surviving witnesses and perpetrators whose names were rarely known. Hubert Zafke is the third former Auschwitz SS man to face trial in Germany in the space of a year. Last July, 94-year-old Oskar Groening, known as the 'bookkeeper of Auschwitz' was sentenced to four years in prison for being an accessory to the murders of 300,000 people at the camp. Groening's appeal is expected to be heard sometime this year, but prosecutors are not waiting to move ahead with other cases. He never denied he had served at the camp, and accepted moral guilt for his crimes, but had denied criminal responsibility on the basis that he was not directly involved in the killings. On February 11, former SS guard Reinhold Hanning, 94, went on trial accused of complicity in 170,000 killings. On February 11, former SS guard Reinhold Hanning, 94, went on trial accused of complicity in 170,000 killings Hanning is accused of serving as an SS Sergeant between 1943 and 1944, a time when hundreds of thousands of Hungarian Jews were gassed to death at the camp. He stands accused of having watched over the selection of which prisoners were fit for labour, and which should be sent to gas chambers. He faces between three and 15 years in jail, but in view of his advanced age and the period required for any appeals, he is unlikely to serve time. Around a dozen more cases are pending or under investigation, authorities say. A new legal precedent was set in the 2009-2011 trial of John Demjanjuk (pictured), a Ukrainian-born guard at the Sobibor death camp in occupied Poland, who was convicted at age 91 of having aided in the mass killings Advertisement The verdict against John Demnjanjuk, a former guard at the Sobibor death camp in occupied Poland, in 2011 paved the way for Zafke's prosecution. Demjanjuk was sentenced to five years in jail for his part in the murders of 28,000 Dutch Jews. It was the first time that there did not have to be specific eyewitness evidence against an individual: the mere fact he was present in the camp was enough for a guilty verdict. Zafke does not deny his service at Auschwitz but claims: 'I heard nothing, saw nothing, killed no-one.' Last year Oskar Groening, 94, was sentenced i Germany to four years behind bars for his role in the murders of 300,000 people while he served as a guard at Auschwitz. Advertisement Seven Tube carriages have been partially buried under thousands of tonnes of rubble that poured into a station when a building collapsed. Hundreds of 'dead' bodies were today strewn across the horrifying scene of carnage, the victims of this major disaster. These are the traumatic sights that scores of emergency service were faced with as they took part in the first day of Europe's largest-ever disaster response training exercise. The scenario involves a tower block collapsing on to the bustling Waterloo Tube station, which has been partially built in a disused power station in Kent. Over the next four days, some 2,000 blood-covered volunteers will act as 'victims', with fake sliced limbs and open wounds recreating the blood and gore of such a large scale incident. Scroll down for video Large scale drill: This photograph reveals the workings behind the mutli-agency exercise, which has taken more than a year to plan. The scenario, which involves a tower block collapsing on to the bustling Waterloo Tube station, has been built in a disused power station Casualties in the carriage: Actors with stage make up lie slumped in the Tube carriage as they wait for rescue workers On the ground: Police officers attend the scene of the fictional attack, helping those outside one of the Tube carriages Wounded: Actors have lifelike injuries, including burns like the one pictured, painted on to their bodies to make the scenario more realistic Attention to detail: Actors with gory wounds and terrifying face make up enjoy a quiet moment before they play their part in the scenario Co-ordinated response: Different agencies work alongside each other as they help Tube passengers trapped on the platform Casualty: An actor pretending to be a pregnant woman injured in the disaster lies waiting to be rescued on a pile of rubble Evacuation: Two female actors are escorted out of the site, which has been built to look like the Waterloo Underground station Directed to safety: Hundreds of actors pretending to be passengers in the station are seen calmly leaving the scene Teams from four different countries will use the drill to put into practise the skills needed in the event of a major emergency, such as a terror attack. To create the most realistic environment possible, Waterloo Underground station has been built and then 'crushed' at the disused Littlebrook power station in Dartford, Kent. A video taken from the scene captures actors pretending to be victims screaming in the aftermath of the building collapse. With more than 1,000 casualties, thousands of tonnes of rubble, seven Tube carriages and hundreds of emergency service responders, Exercise Unified Response (EUR), co-ordinated by the London Fire Brigade, has been over a year in the planning. It is the largest-ever training exercise in the 150 year history of the Brigade. Police, firefighters and paramedics will this week work side-by-side with more than 70 partner agencies including local councils, utility companies and specialist search and rescue teams to respond to the disaster during the four-day drill. Disaster victim identification teams from all UK police regions are also working alongside other forensic specialists in a mortuary on site. Teams will also be working alongside firefighters from Italy, Hungary and Cyprus who will also be mobilised to the incident on Wednesday. The massive scale of the incident gives specialist teams an opportunity to practise skills and functions that are rarely used but are necessary in the event of a major disaster. In recent years specially trained teams from around the UK have been deployed to assist in the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 in July 2014 and the Shoreham Air Crash in August last year. Disaster strikes: The drill allows rescue workers across Europe to practisce the skills they would need in the event of a terror attack Graphic: Actors like this one (right) will wait at the scene to be rescued by emergency workers (one pictured at the scene, left) Grisly: This chilling sight of a man bleeding from his injury after getting caught in the collapse was one of the many seen today Rapid response: Fire and ambulance crews work together to remove a body, left, as other casualties wait for instruction on the platform Moments away: Paramedics were dust masks to protect themselves as they tend to those caught up in the staged disaster Low lighting: As well as contending with the injuries, rescue workers had to tackle the underground conditions (recreated above) Trapped: Passengers who were caught inside their carriage when the building 'collapsed' are seen screaming for help Helping the wounded: Emergency response workers are seen tending to actors who have been made up to look like disaster casualties Emergency response: Workers from a number of different agencies are seen working together to treat a casualty recovered from the scene Difficult conditions: Two men are seen looking out of one Tube carriage window, left, as survivors are lifted from underneath a carriage Horror: A 'dead' body lies strewn across the roof of one of the seven Tube carriages involved in the training exercise Working together: A volunteer plays the role of a 'dead' disaster victim (left) emergency workers help a 'pregnant' casualty at the scene Training: A police officer uses a dummy to practice administering a breathing aid at the scene of the staged emergency London Fire Commissioner Ron Dobson, said: 'Exercises of this scale are important to ensure that we are always ready to respond no matter what happens. 'You can't get this sort of experience from a text book, we need to play it like it's real and ensure that should the worst happen, our response is effective and well coordinated. It's fitting that this exercise should be part of our 150th celebrations as it shows how we have developed as a Brigade. 'The modern fire service is no longer just about fires, we have a range of skills including carrying out complex rescues from height, detecting hazardous materials and rescuing people from water. 'However, Exercise Unified Response is not just about the rescues; an incident of this size affects everyone from thousands of stranded commuters who can't get home, to distraught relatives who can't reach loved ones. 'We are working with TfL, local councils and various voluntary organisations to simulate the wider and longer term impacts that any major disaster would have on the community. Underground treatment: In a room created to look like the Waterloo Tube station, emergency workers tend to the 'wounded' Unable to move: Two volunteers sit with bandages on their head during the exercise, left. Right, a casualty is escorted from the scene Carried to safety: A volunteer playing a woman injured in the collapse is strapped to a stretcher before being taken out of the station Specialist training: Rows of 'victims' are lined up on beds in a makeshift centre set up outside the Tube station Treatment: Firefighters carry out one actor who was left unable to walk after he 'injured' his leg in the Tube station collapse Walking wounded: A woman with a nose injury leaves the Underground station alongside other well enough to stand Treatment: Firefighters tend to young women who sustained minor injuries in the accident, in an area set up outside the station Plan of action: Emergency response teams organise themselves outside the station before going in to practise their skills EMERGENCY RESPONSE: NUMBERS BEHIND THE TRAINING EXERCISE There were more than 1,000 casualties - represented by dummies and actors - in the scene today. TfL provided 7 tube carriages for the drill. More than 70 agencies from 4 different countries across Europe are taking part in the four-day event. Some 2,000 volunteers will play the wounded and injured. More than 250 emergency service personnel will attend the disaster scene this week. The drill took more than 365 days to plan. Advertisement 'Although this scenario is not a terrorist attack, we will be practising procedures and systems that are common to any emergency that results in a large number of fatalities and injuries. 'For example, hundreds of people left the 7/7 London bombings without physical injury, but found themselves struggling psychologically in the years that followed. In this scenario police and local authorities will set up a Humanitarian Assistance Centre which offers information and support. 'The exercise will also be rigorously observed by independent evaluators and any lessons learned will be used to improve the way in which we respond to future emergency incidents.' Chief Constable Debbie Simpson, of the National Police Chiefs, said: 'Victim identification is never a pleasant subject to discuss but it is unfortunately a reality. 'When disaster strikes families need to be confident that the authorities are doing everything they can to identify their loved ones in a dignified and respectful way, whilst supporting any criminal investigation. 'Importantly this process cannot be hurried. As frustrating as this can sometimes be, especially in a world of fast paced mainstream and social media, we have to be meticulous in our approach to ensure we achieve reliable scientific identification. 'It's not often we get to test working practices on such a scale and it's really positive to see so many of our European colleagues involved. Effective evaluation and debriefing will help highlight good practice and any areas for development.' Playing the part: An actor has his face covered in stage make up as he prepares to play a casualty of the would-be disaster in London Gruesome: Bleeding cuts, left, and disturbing facial injuries, right, add to the realistic appearance of the would-be casualties Behind the scenes: Photographs taken of the actors before they take their places in the exercise reveal the work that went in to the drill President Barack Obama has awarded the nation's highest military honor to a Navy SEAL who helped rescue an American hostage in December 2012. Edward Byers, a senior chief in the Navy, has become only the 11th living service member to be awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in Afghanistan when he threw himself over a hostage to act as a human shield - while pinning up an enemy guard against a wall by the throat. The ceremony took place on Monday at the White House shortly after 11am. Byers, 36, took part in the rescue of Dr Dilip Joseph, who was abducted along with his driver and Afghan interpreter. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO This is the moment President Obama awarded Navy SEAL Edward Byers, 36, with the Medal of Honor for his actions in Afghanistan in 2012. The Ohio-born serviceman is first living winner of the award in decades Addressing the audience at the White House at 11.15am, President Obama revealed Byers had a huge group of loved-ones witnessing the ceremony, including 50 cousins, brothers and sisters, his mother, and friends An unclassified summary of the rescue provided by the Defense Department said Byers (pictured) flung himself on top of the American doctor, shielding him from rounds being fired in the room Addressing the audience at the White House at 11.15am, President Obama revealed Byers had a huge group of loved-ones who had come from all over the world to witness the ceremony. Alongside his mother, his brothers and his sisters, he had about 50 counsins from across the US and dozens of friends from all over the world, many of whom had served in the Navy. The president applauded this attitude of 'brotherhood' and said it is indicative of Byers' compassion. 'He has a soul, spirit capable of compassion, sacrifice, and endurance,' the president said as Byers stood alongside him. An unclassified summary of the rescue provided by the Defense Department said Byers flung himself on top of the doctor, shielding him from rounds being fired in the room. At the same time, he pinned a guard against the wall with his hand 'around the enemy's throat' until another SEAL was able to shoot the guard. Byers' team had been spotted by a guard when it neared the building. Byers was the second person on the team to reach the door, the summary said. As he tried to rip down the blankets that served as a door, the first solider to arrive pushed his way through the doorway and was immediately shot; Byers also entered the building and engaged a struggling armed guard, the summary said. Once inside, Byers heard an unknown voice speaking English: 'He immediately leaped across the room and selflessly flung his body on top of the American hostage, shielding him from the continued rounds being fired across the room. 'Almost simultaneously, Chief Byers identified an additional enemy fighter directly behind Dr. Joseph. 'While covering the hostage with his body, Chief Byers was able to pin the enemy combatant to the wall with his hand around the enemy's throat,' the summary said. Byers restrained the man until another SEAL was able to shoot him dead, the summary said. Navy SEAL Nic Checque, left, was killed during a mission to save Dr. Dilip Joseph, right Byers earned the Medal of Honor for his actions during the rescue mission in Afghanistan in 2012 Seven other living recipients of the Medal of Honor, pictured left, belong to the Navy. Right, Byers during duty in an undated photo President Obama also saluted Petty Officer 1st Class Nick Checque, 28, who died of his wounds during the siege - despite Byers' ardent attempts to treat him. Once the doctor was moved to a helicopter landing zone, Byers, a certified paramedic, assisted in providing medical aid to his wounded colleague. In a video released by the Navy, Byers said Checque would forever be remembered for the sacrifice. 'Nic embodied the essence of what it is to be an American hero.' Byers said he got a call from the president in December that he would be getting the award. 'That's when it's like, OK, this is real,' Byers said. Byers said he plans to continue serving as a Navy SEAL. 'I'm going to take whatever job or mission is next for me.' A Navy bio said Byers grew up in Grand Rapids, Ohio, and graduated in 1997, from Otsego High School. His father served in the Navy in the Second World War and now rests in Arlington, Virginia. Byers has been deployed overseas 11 times with nine combat tours. The brand behind Head & Shoulders is suing Poundstretcher over claims the budget retailer has been selling counterfeit shampoo and conditioner. Procter & Gamble filed a High Court action against the shop, accusing them of infringing its trademark by selling bogus versions of the haircare products between 2013 and 2014. The U.S company is also taking action against two wholesalers, Home and Beauty and J&S Brands, over the same allegations. It is the latest in a string of court actions which leading brands have taken against high street traders and supermarkets in a bid to ward off trademark infringement. The brand behind Head & Shoulders is suing Poundstretcher over claims the budget retailer has been selling counterfeit shampoo and conditioner. Pictured: Head & Shoulders on sale in a department store P&G is now seeking damages from the three companies and has demanded to know the origins of the alleged imitation goods. It has also accused the three brands of trading in counterfeit Aerial products. According to the Sunday Times, Poundstretcher and Home and Beauty have not yet filed defences to the claim. But J&S says it 'does not admit' to having bought and sold fake products. It added that it 'believes' its products were legitimate, although it now knows that the marketplace was 'awash' with bogus goods at the time. Richard Hyman, a retail analyst, said: 'It goes hand in hand with the discounting sector being very significantly busier than it was, whether it is in food or fashion. 'However, it is not a sustainable approach and retailers have to create and develop their own brands and identities standing or falling on the strength of that.' The fake products were reportedly brought to P&G's attention in 2013 when a customer who shopped in the discount chain's store in Sutton-in-Ashfield complained to Trading Standards about Ariel powder. Subsequent tests revealed the goods to be false. Procter & Gamble filed a High Court action against the shop (pictured), accusing them of infringing its trademark by selling bogus versions of Head & Shoulders between 2013 and 2014 The company's agents then bought Head & Shoulders products from Poundstretcher stores and allegedly found them all to be counterfeit. High street stores have increasingly been trying to win sales by copying the pack design, colours and names used by big brands, which spend millions developing and promoting their products. There have already been a series of court actions by leading brands against supermarkets for trademark infringement. In 1997, Asda was forced to change the packaging of its Puffin chocolate biscuits after United Biscuits successfully argued that the item was a copycat of its McVitie's Penguin bars. In 2014, Aldi was forced to remove its Saucy Salmon Fillets from sale following complaints from the Grimsby-based Saucy Fish Company, which argued the products were virtually identical. Aldi's Norpak Spreadable (right) could easily be mistaken for Lurpak Spreadable (left) Orange packs of Aldi's Belmont Oaties (right) look very much like McVitie's Hobnobs biscuits (left) Research by the consumer group Which? found many shoppers are angry at supermarkets who try to mislead them by copying brands. A study found one in five of its members have accidentally bought a supermarket version of a product thinking it was a well-known brand. Of those, 38 per cent said they were annoyed and 30per cent felt misled. Its research among 150 own-label products found that the cheeky monkey on boxes of Harvest Morn Choco Rice sold by Aldi could quite easily be mistaken for the character used by Kelloggs for its Coco Pops. Similarly, the orange packs of Aldis Savour Bakes Cream Crackers look very much like the Jacobs product, while its Norpak Spreadable could be mistaken for Lurpak Spreadable. The firms Belmont Oaties were also similar to McVities Hobnobs and its Tower Gate Milk Chocolate Digestives look like the McVities product. In 2014, Aldi was forced to remove its Saucy Salmon Fillets from sale following complaints from the Grimsby-based Saucy Fish Company, which argued the products were virtually identical Other brands facing competition from similar products include Pimm's, with most supermarkets selling a similar-looking version and Samson malt vinegar in Lidl, which looks similar to Sarson's. Director of the British Brands Group, John Noble, said previously that mimicking the packaging designs of familiar brands is a trick to boost sales. 'The penny is beginning to drop that shoppers are not well served by such copying and the Government is consulting on making consumer protection law more effective in this area,' he said. This would be good news. Such copying free-rides off brand reputations and does not offer shoppers real choice. Products should compete on their own merits and not mislead shoppers or act as parasites on brands. A former Army corporal who lost a leg when she was blown up in Iraq has revealed how she was evacuated from a Bear Grylls TV survival programme after a scorpion bite left her in agony. Hannah Campbell, 31, from Northampton, is one of the few contestants to have been evacuated during the three seasons of Channel 4 reality show The Island, which is set to return next month. The mother-of-two, who suffered post-traumatic stress disorder after her ordeal in Iraq, also told of her flashbacks when a tropical storm over the island off Panama caused crashes like explosions. Mother of two: Former Army corporal Hannah Campbell (who is pictured with her daughters Milly, 11, and Lexi-River, two, at the Fawsley Hall Hotel in Northamptonshire) has been evacuated from a TV survival programme Taken to safety: Miss Campbell (pictured left as part of Windsor Platoon in 2002) is said to have been the first person evacuated during all three seasons of Channel 4 reality show The Island featuring Bear Grylls (right) She told The Suns reporter Michael Hamilton: We were on an island off Panama and there was a giant thunderstorm. The crashes were like explosions. It happened in the pitch-black of night. But I wasnt evacuated from the island because of the PTSD. It was because I was suffering from enormous pain after the scorpion bit my leg. A Channel 4 spokesman told MailOnline today: 'We do not want to ruin the show for viewers as all will be revealed in the new series. 'However, we must stress that all of the islanders underwent rigorous medical tests before being cleared to take part.' The Island sees Grylls abandon men and women on separate desert islands in the Pacific with only basic tools and the clothes they are wearing. They must then film their own attempts to survive. Suffering: Miss Campbell was horrifically injured when a mortar bomb hit the building in Basra she was guarding while serving with 19 Tank Transporter Squadron in 2007, and later had her leg amputated Miss Campbell, who is mother to Milly, 11, and Lexi-River, two, had been allowed to take part in the series hosted by Chief Scout Grylls, a former SAS soldier, despite her history of medical issues. The contestant suffered horrific injuries almost a decade ago when a mortar bomb hit the building in Basra she was guarding while serving with 19 Tank Transporter Squadron in 2007. She was blinded in one eye, her left hand was split in two and her left leg shattered. Shrapnel damaged her abdomen and two years after the blast she decided to have the leg amputated. During her recovery Miss Campbell gained almost 12st from being wheelchair-bound and lost her hair due to post-traumatic stress disorder. Previous series: The Island sees Grylls abandon men and women on separate desert islands in the Pacific with only basic tools and the clothes they are wearing. They must then film their own attempts to survive She then had a 52,500 makeover including a prosthetic leg, tattooed make-up, Botox, gastric band weight loss treatment, a tummy tuck, breast enlargements and hair extensions. However Miss Campbell then nearly died twice from a mystery illness following the birth of Lexi-River, as she was struck down with a condition that caused her stomach to rupture. Her relationship with fiance Anthony McMorrow, a marketing consultant and the father of Lexi-River, then broke down due to her illness, although their split was said to be amicable. Adam Johnson leaves Bradford Crown Court today. The judge told the jury it was irrelevant if his accuser consented The judge in Adam Johnson's child sex trial has told the jury it is irrelevant whether his schoolgirl accuser was 'up for it' when they met last year. The England winger has admitted grooming and kissing a 15-year-old girl, but he denies more serious sexual activity took place in his Range Rover. After a two-week trial, Judge Jonathan Rose today summed up the case to the jury. He told them: 'You may well conclude that the girl did agree to meet Johnson and take part in sexual activity but her consent is irrelevant and provides no defence for Mr Johnson because the law says the child lacks the maturity to decide whether she should or should not take part in sexual activity. 'Whether she was up for it or excited are things that are not relevant.' The judge said the prosecution's case is that Johnson 'has lied to his girlfriend, to police and to the court'. He reminded the jury that Johnson had admitted lying on eight occasions. He said: 'The prosecution says these lies were told in an attempt to conceal Adam Johnson's guilt.' But he said the defence case was that 'such lies as he has told are merely the panicked response of a man who had done wrong by his family'. Judge Rose told the jury it must not assume Johnson is guilty just because he has admitted to lying. He said: 'Lies alone cannot prove a case against Adam Johnson. You must consider all of the evidence in this case.' Johnson, 28, was accompanied by his ex-girlfriend Stacey Flounders, who is the mother of his daughter, as he arrived at Bradford Crown Court this morning. Miss Flounders revealed the couple had split during her evidence to the court last week, but remain friends. She said she believed Johnson when he said he had only kissed the schoolgirl. Judge Rose told the jury of eight women and four men: 'In February last year, a 15-year-old girl told police that she had met and had intimate relations with the defendant, a professional footballer with Sunderland Football Club. 'The time is fast approaching when you will have to decide whether you are sure that Adam Johnson engaged in sexual activity with the girl.' The judge told the jurors they had to decide whether Johnson put his hand down the girl's trousers and engaged in oral sex. Johnson and his ex-girlfriend Stacey Flounders leave Bradford Crown Court this afternoon. The jury are expected to be sent out to start their deliberation tomorrow Judge Rose told the jury that the defence's case is that the girl is a 'proven liar who has made up the other allegations'. He said: 'It is quite clear, say the defence, that (the girl) is lying.' He said the defence claim Johnson is a 'man to be believed', who has suffered 'irreparable damage' to his footballing career and his relationship with his girlfriend and mother of his child, Stacey Flounders, as a result of his admissions. Judge Rose said the prosecution's case is that Johnson, who has admitted being sexually attracted to the girl, is guilty. Judge Jonathan Rose gave his summing up to the jury in Johnson's trial today He said: 'He admits he made contact with her and then met her intending to engage in sexual activity with her. He admits that he kissed her.' The judge said the jury should also take into account the fact that Johnson was previously of good character and that he is now convicted of the two sexual offences to which he has admitted. He said: 'The fact that the defendant pleaded guilty to those two matters is not direct evidence that he committed the offences on this indictment.' The prosecutor in Johnson's case told the jury last week that his was a case of 'grooming in its purest form' Kate Blackwell QC said: 'By his own admission, Adam Johnson is not a man of honour. 'He's a self-confessed arrogant man who throws himself at your mercy and asks you to accept that his contrition for what he has done is genuine. 'But we expect you have seen through his transparent cloak of rectitude. It doesn't take much to lift the material and peek inside to the core of deceit and lies.' Miss Blackwell told the court Johnson's claims that the sexual activity had not gone further than a kiss were 'preposterous'. She added: 'He's a man who has lied and lied and lied again.' Johnson's defence barrister, Orlando Pownall QC, said the girl, who was 'infatuated' with Johnson, had also lied during the investigation. Mr Pownall ended his speech by urging the jury to acquit Johnson on both counts of sexual activity with a child. He said: 'Mr Johnson is deserving of little, not your sympathy, not your approval in respect of any aspect of his behaviour, but he deserves one thing, if nothing else, and that's a clear and fair, dispassionate consideration by you of all the evidence.' Johnson denies two counts of sexual activity with a child. The jury are expected to be sent out to consider their verdicts tomorrow. Johnson and his ex-girlfriend Stacey Flounders arrive at court this morning. The judge is summing up Johnson was with his ex-girlfriend Stacey Flounders, who gave evidence for the defence last week It was an Oscars plagued by controversy because of the all-white acting nominee line-up for the second year running. Rather than shy away from the contentious issue, host Chris Rock tackled the #OscarsSoWhite theme head on. But while the outspoken comedian was widely praised for his handling of the sensitive subject, others accused him of going too far with jokes about lynching and Asian children. During the show he speculated why the furor over diversity in the industry had taken root this year, rather than in the 1950s or 1960s. Rock said black Americans had bigger issues to worry about then. 'Because we had real things to protest at the time. We were too busy being raped and lynched to care about who won best cinematographer.' 'When your grandmother is swinging from a tree, it's really hard to care about best documentary foreign short.' Chris Rock was accused of going too far during his Oscars monologue when he made jokes about lynching and Asian children Rock was criticized for bringing out three Asian children on stage and making a joke at their expense He continued: 'If anybody's upset about that joke, just tweet about it on your phone that was also made by these kids' Viewers criticized his decision on Twitter, saying the comedian shouldn't have used lynching in a light-hearted reference and could have been more 'responsible' with his analogy. One person said: 'If anyone makes lighthearted references to lynching, especially those meant to cause laughter or applause; I'm done before we get started.' Another wrote that he didn't have to use lynching as a setup for a 'punchline'. Then, later in his performance, Rock - who began by welcoming people to the 'white People's Choice awards' - said: 'The results of the awards have been tabulated by the accountant firm PricewaterhouseCoopers. 'They sent us their most dedicated, accurate and hard working representatives. Please welcome Ming Zhu, Bao Ling and David Moskowitz.' He continued: 'If anybody's upset about that joke, just tweet about it on your phone that was also made by these kids.' Many accused him of being hypocritical for 'preaching about equality, then making a blatant racist joke about those Asian kids'. Another commented: 'Chris Rock spent the entire night talking about the importance of diversity. Brings out CHILDREN to make a racist Asian joke. #doublestandard' One noted: 'That's good Chris Rock, complain about racism and then make a joke about Asian kids fixing your phone.' Many Twitter users condemned Rock for his reference to lynching and suggested he shouldn't have made it part of a light-hearted reference Another said he should have been more responsible with the use of the analogy during his gag-filled performance on Sunday night One person suggested on Twitter his jokes on lynching were very close to crossing the line Drew King said the comments Rock made on lynching were too much for him Jodie Landon said on Twitter that the comments on lynching and rape made her uncomfortable A Twitter account holder by the name Diva B said she 'didn't care' for the offensive gags The Brooklyn-born comedian was praised for his impressive performance at the 88th Academy Awards His joke at the expense of the Asian children overshadowed what was largely viewed as being a hugely impressive performance by the comedian at the 88th Academy Awards. He commented how he had 'counted at least 15 black people' in the montage that opened the ceremony, before welcoming people to the 'white People's Choice awards'. We were too busy being raped and lynched to care about who won best cinematographer. When your grandmother is swinging from a tree, it's really hard to care about best documentary foreign short Chris Rock on why the furor over racism had taken root this year rather than the 1950s of 60s 'You realize if they nominated hosts, I wouldn't even get this job,' he quipped. 'Y'all would be watching Neil Patrick Harris right now.' Rock added: 'Everyone wants to know is Hollywood racist? You have to go at it the right way. Is it burning-cross racist? Fetch-me-some-lemonade racist? No. 'It's a different kind of racist. Is Hollywood racist? You're damn right it's racist but it's sorority racist. It's like: We like you Rhonda, but you're not a Kappa.' And eluding to the wave of protests against police brutality against black people in the US, Rock added that, this year, the 'In Memoriam' section should be 'black people that were shot by the cops on the way to the movies'. At the same time, the Brooklyn-born comedian was critical about Jada Pinkett-Smith boycotting the ceremony - 'Jada boycotting the Oscars is like me boycotting Rihanna's panties. I wasn't invited'. He also mocked her husband's lack of appearance on the nominee list for Concussion, saying: 'It's not fair... I get it. It's also not fair that Will was paid $20m for Wild Wild West.' He then made a direct reference to the many calls for him to resign in protest, saying: ''Chris, you should boycott, you should quit' how come it's always unemployed people that tell you to quit something?' The #OscarsSoWhite controversy dominated the build-up to the Oscars - but was expertly handled by Rock Rock, pictured with Oscar winner Leonardo DiCaprio at the after-party, was accused of double standards Rock joked: 'I thought about it really hard but they're not going to cancel the Oscars because I quit, and the last thing I need is to lose another job to Kevin Hart.' The Brooklyn-born comic then told a true story that involved President Barack Obama and Hollywood executives, who despite their liberalism are still lagging in enacting racial equality. 'I was at a fundraiser for president Obama, a lot of you were there It's all of Hollywood and there were four black people there: me, Quincy Jones, Russell Simmons, Questlove. The usual suspects,' told Rock. 'At some point you get to take a picture with the president. 'As they're setting up the picture you get a little moment with the president. I'm like, 'Mr. President, you see all these writers producers and actors, they don't hire black people and they're the nicest white people on Earth. 'They're liberals!' HOW CHRIS ROCK PRACTICED HIS MONOLOGUE DURING SURPRISE STAND-UP PERFORMANCES WHERE PHONES WERE BANNED FROM THE AUDIENCE Chris Rock's monologue arguably stole the show at the Oscars. But the comedian wasn't just improvising when he attacked the scandal-hit Academy Awards during his opening speech. It has been revealed that Rock prepared and perfected his jokes during surprise stand-up performances. According to the Washington Post, he went to the famous Comedy Store in West Hollywood ten times in the two weeks leading up to the ceremony to hone his gags. Chris Rock went to the famous Comedy Store in West Hollywood ten times in the two weeks leading up to the ceremony to perfect his monologue, it has been revealed His appearances were short and slotted in between sets, but he used them to test the gags. During the performances, phones were banned from the audience He would appear on stage for between 15 and 30 minutes to work on parts of the script. On Saturday, just 24 hours before he shocked the viewing audience with his speech, he took to teh stage alongside Louis C.K., Dave Chappelle, Dane Cook and Marc Maron. Adam Eget, the Comedy Stores booker, told The Post: 'He really trimmed the fat and made it real lean. 'There were some, even after day four, hed say, "Im not going to be able to do this joke." 'But then, youd hear him do it again and hed have tweaked a word or two. Instead of saying "p," hes say bedroom.' The staff at the club increase their security to make sure Rock's jokes were kept secret. Bouncers patrolled the venue to make sure punters weren't recording the sets on cell phones or cameras. Eget added that hosts coming in to prepare their set is rare, but audience members were excited to watch the process unfold. Advertisement Cutting the fat: Chris Rock posted this picture of him editing his highly anticipated monologue prior to the start of the 88th Academy Awards Friends backstage: Kevin Hart and Dave Chappelle joined Chris Rock during a break while the 88th Academy Awards broadcast Dave Chappelle, left, and Chris Rock appear backstage at the Oscars on Sunday Chris Rock's rumored girlfriend Megalyn Echikunwoke, (left), and the comedian appear backstage at the Oscars on Sunday Support: Celebrities chimed in with their reactions to Chris Rock's brutally funny opening monologue as host of the 88th Academy Awards Relief: Oprah Winfrey gives a thumbs up to Chris Rock with a tweet showing her seal of approval Unreserved praise: Chelsea Handler left no doubt what she thought of Chris Rock's opening monologue Indeed, during a ceremony very much centered on race and diversity, it wasn't just Chris Rock who used the stage to offer up their thoughts. Rock's fellow comedian Kevin Hart launched into an apparently impromptu speech applauding actors and actresses of color who were not nominated. This year, the In Memoriam package is just going to be black people who were shot on their way to the movies He urged them to carry on but then his speech was abruptly cut out for an unknown reason as he prepared to introduce the musician The Weeknd. The comedian was in the middle of an unscripted monologue congratulating actors of color who were shut out in this year's nominations, when the audio was edited out. In a slow-motion playback of Hart's speech, he appears to say: 'God****it, congratulations' or 'Congratu-f******-lations.' Others wondered whether he had said anything profane at all. After earlier posting a picture to Instagram of him adjusting his monologue prior to hitting the stage, Rock said he did indeed question whether he should host the awards after the boycott was announced. 'No black nominees, people are like, 'Chris you should boycott', said Rock. He then went onto criticize those who advised him to pull out saying, 'How come it's only unemployed people who tell you to quit? I thought about quitting ... but they are not going to cancel the Oscars 'cause I quit. The last thing I need is to lose another job to Kevin Hart.' PULLING NO PUNCHES: CHRIS ROCK'S 10 BEST OSCARS JOKES 1) 'Why all the protests this year? This is the 88th Academy Awards and I'm sure this has happened at least 71 times before. I'm sure there were years in the '50s and '60s where black people didn't get nominated. But we had better things to protest. We were too busy getting raped and lynched to care who was up for best cinematographer. When your grandma is swinging from a tree, It's kind of hard to worked up about best foreign film.' 2) 'Is Hollywood racist? You're damn right. But Hollywood is sorority racist. It's like, 'We like you, Rhonda, but you're not a Kappa.'' Rock was accused of going too far at some points during the night 3) 'Jada boycotting the Oscars is like me boycotting Rihanna's panties. 'I wasn't invited! 'It's not an invitation I would turn down.' 4) 'This year, the In Memoriam package is just going to be black people who were shot on their way to the movies.' 5) After the broadcast returned from a commercial break; 'And we're black.' 6) On the pressure to not host the Oscars: 'I thought about quitting. I thought about it real hard. But I realized, they're going to have the Oscars anyway. They're not going to cancel the Oscars because I quit. And the last thing I need is to lose another job to Kevin Hart.' 7) On progress on diversity in Hollywood: 'Things are changing. We got a Black 'Rocky'. Some people call it 'Creed' but I call it 'Black Rocky.' It takes place where white athletes are as good as black athletes. 'Rocky' is science fiction. There are things that happen in 'Star Wars' that are more believable than 'Rocky.' 8) 'I'm here at the Oscars, otherwise known as the White People's Choice Awards. If they nominated hosts, I wouldn't even be here right now. Y'all would be watching Neil Patrick Harris.' 9) 'It's not fair Will was this good in Concussion and wasn't nominated. It's also not fair that Will was paid $20 million for Wild Wild West.' 10) 'My favorite actor in the world is Paul Giamatti. Last year he's whipping Lupita, this year he's crying at Easy E's funeral. That's range. Advertisement And as he moved onto the awards, said, 'You want diversity? We got diversity. Please welcome Emily Blunt and somebody whiter, Charlize Theron.' as the two actresses appeared to present the first award for of the night, for best original screenplay. Is Hollywood racist? You're damn right it's racist but it's sorority racist. It's like: We like you Rhonda, but you're not a Kappa Rock even managed to draw parallels with sexism and racism and joked that possibly the best way to ensure diversity is to have a black Oscar category. But then he made the point that having men and women's Oscar's is equally nonsensical. 'There's no real reason to have a men and a women category in acting. It's not track and field, you don't have to separate them,' said Rock. 'Robert De Niro never said, 'I should slow this acting down so Meryl Streep can catch up,' quipped the New York City comedian. 'No. Not at all. If you want black people every year at the Oscars, just have black categories. Like Best Black Friend. And the winner for the 18th year in a row is Wanda Sykes. This is Wanda's 18th black Oscar.' He then addressed the politically correct nature of Hollywood, poking fun at the current controversy over only asking women on the red carpet to talk about what they are wearing and asking the men more interesting questions. The comedian said that not everyone should be so touchy and sometimes to live and let live. Chris Rock turned the 88th Academy Awards into an excuse to make up for lost family time when he brought his daughters on stage during the show to collect money for Girl Scout Cookies No rescue? Then Chris Rock sent up Matt Damon's movie, The Martian and made the joke that a black man might not stand as good a chance of being rescued from Mars as a white man 'Not everything is racism. Not everything is sexism. If George Clooney shows up in lime green with a swan coming out of his a, someone's going to ask, what are you wearing?' said Rock. Easing up on the throttle, Rock threw a few jokes Sylvester Stallone's way, poking fun at the Rocky star. 'Things are changing. Things are changing. We got a black 'Rocky.' Some people call it 'Creed.' I call it black 'Rocky,' reeled off Rock. 'That's an unbelievable statement. "Rocky" takes place in a world where white athletes are as good as black athletes. 'You realize if they nominated hosts, I wouldn't even get this job. Y'all would be watching Neil Patrick Harris right now 'Rocky's' a science fiction movie. 'There are things that happen in 'Star Wars' that are more believable than 'Rocky.' He closed the monologue with a straight-up plea to white Hollywood, 'It's not about boycotting anything, we want opportunity. We want the black actors to get the same opportunities as white actors.' 'Not just once. Leo gets a great part every year. All you guys get great parts all the time. But what about the black actors. Jamie Foxx is one of the best actors in the world,' continued Rock. 'Jamie Foxx is so good in Ray that they went to the hospital and unplugged the real Ray Charles. They're like, 'We don't need two of these. After Rock wrapped up his searing monologue, he introduced a clip that showed scenes from some of the contenders for best film and their white cast - but with black actors hilariously placed instead into them. 'If you're a black actor just getting the opportunity to be in a movie can be a struggle,' Rock said. 'Let's take a look.' First up, Whoopi Goldberg was seen as an irritated janitor and put into a scene from Jennifer Lawrence's Joy. The EGOT winner said, 'Maybe one day they'll make a movie about a skinny white girl who invents a mop. Of course a black girl would have to invent a cure to cancer before they even give her a TV movie.' Victory! Actor Chris Rock presents the amount of money collected by the Girl Scouts during the show on stage at the 88th Oscars Thanks! Chris Rock then cut to an actor playing Suge Knight and joked that the hip hop producer had purchased the most cookies. Suge Knight is currently in custody awaiting trial on August 1 for a fatal hit-and-run Give an Oscars acceptance speech: 'You give black actors more awards because they deserve it and work hard for it just like anybody else. How 'bout that, America.' Taking the pulse of Compton: Chris Rock headed over the infamous LA neighborhood to ask its residents what they thought of the Oscars race controversy In another, SNL's Leslie Jones played the bear from The Revenant, beating a helpless Leonardo DiCaprio, screaming, 'You should have called me back'. In one pre-taped parody of a scene from 'The Martian,' the Oscar-nominated sci-fi drama about an astronaut marooned on the Red Planet, Rock was substituted for the stranded star of that film, Matt Damon, as NASA officials argued whether it was worth the expense to try to bring a black astronaut back to Earth. 'I'll tell you what's a PR problem,' says Daniels. 'Spending 2500 white dollars to save one black astronaut.' And in the coup-de-grace, Tracy Morgan takes on Eddie Redmayne's difficult transgender role in The Danish Girl, and sends it up by literally eating his way through pastry. Many in Hollywood had been holding their breath ahead of his opening and the host did not disappoint, even launching a searing attack on Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith - who boycotted this years ceremony over a perceived lack of diversity. Snubbed again: Angela Bassett appeared set to pay tribute to Will Smith - but instead thanked actor Jack Black for his roles in Shark Tale, Enemy of the State and for his 'fresh' music Stacey Dash came out for a quick and cringe-worthy cameo during the Oscars to wish the crowd a 'Happy Black History Month' Chrissy Teigen and The Weeknd found the moment particularly hard to stomach with their obvious disdain And the jokes at the expense of Will Smith did not end there. Indeed, as part of his skewering of the ceremony, Rock created a series of skits entitled 'Black History Month Minute'. One of them featured Angela Bassett in what appeared to be at first a tribute to a black actor - Will Smith - but was in fact for the very white Jack Black. She listed the unnamed actor's previous work, including Enemy of The State and Shark Tale, misleading audiences into thinking Will Smith would be recognized after he was snubbed for his role in Concussion. But Bassett delivered the punchline by awarding the honor of 'acknowledging people of color' to Jack Black instead. In another, Rock ventured in a tuxedo to the predominantly black Los Angeles suburb of Compton to ask several African-American movie-goers outside a cinema whether they had seen various films nominated this year for best picture. None had. However, all said they had seen the critically acclaimed hip-hop drama 'Straight Outta Compton,' whose failure to earn a place in the best picture contest helped stoke the #OscarsSoWhite uproar. 'Well, I guess it's about giving blacks a chance to win,' said one man when asked what he thought of the Oscars and the race controversy. Rock then handed out a real Oscar trophy for the people of Compton to hold and then asked them to deliver what would be their acceptance speech. 'This should not just be white -- it should be Asian, Hispanic, there's so much talent out there of all races,' said one man.' While one woman said, 'You give black actors more awards because they deserve it and work hard for it just like anybody else. How 'bout that, America.' Boycott and protest: Spike Lee - dressed in a tuxedo - sits courtside to watch his beloved New York Knicks instead of attending the Oscars in Los Angeles after boycotting the ceremony ahead of this years race row Protest: Reverend Al Sharpton (R) leads a protest against the all-white slate of Oscar acting nominees, near the Academy Awards ceremony in Los Angeles, California on Sunday After the high drama of the monologue, Rock relaxed into a cute segment in which he asked the star-studded crowd at the 88th Academy Awards on Sunday to dig deep in their pockets to help his girls Lola and Zahra raise the most money selling Girl Scout cookies. The hungry guests at the Dolby Theatre didn't need too much persuading and amazingly Rock revealed later on that Hollywood's hottest helped raise $65,243 for the good cause. Christian Bale, Matt Damon, Charlize Theron and Kate Winslet were just some of the stars spotted snacking on the treats. Not everything was a hit. Stacey Dash made a bizarre appearance at one point to wish the audience a 'happy Black History month'. Chris Rock introduced her ironically as the new director of the Academy's 'minority outreach program' But the 'Clueless' actress was only met with cringes and awkward stares from celebrities as she delivered a half-hearted Black History Month greeting to the crowd. From Chrissy Teigen to The Weeknd, to celebrities that didn't even get invited, no one seemed impressed by the humor in Dash's appearance. Dash has been vocal about her disapproval of Black History Month, as well as the #OscarsSoWhite movement. Earlier it was all anyone could talk about as Hollywood's biggest stars streamed onto the world's most famous red carpet on Sunday marked by suspense over how Rock would address the race controversy which as dominated awards season. THE 'WHITE' OSCARS: STARS WHO SPOKE OUT ON AWARDS DIVERSITY Chorus of critics: (L to R) Idris Elba , Whoopi Goldberg and Snoop Dogg have condemned the Oscars' lack of diversity among the nominees 'This institution doesn't reflect its president and it doesn't reflect this room. I am an Academy member and it doesn't reflect me, and it doesn't reflect this nation,' - David Oyelowo 'You have to ask the question are black people normally playing petty criminals? Are women always the love interest or talking about men? Are gay people always stereotyped? Are disabled people ever seen at all?' - Idris Elba '... the idea that we could go two years in a row, where 40 actors could be nominated and none of them were black, is just crazy,' - Michael Moore 'I can't help ask the question: is it time that people of color, recognize how much power and influence we have amassed that we no longer need to ask to be invited anywhere,' - Jada Pinkett Smith 'How is it possible for the 2nd consecutive year all 20 contenders under the actor category are white? And let's not even get into the other branches. 40 white actors in 2 years and no flava at all. We can't act?! WTF!!' - Spike Lee Support: George Clooney has spoken out against the lack of diversity at the Oscars which director Spike Lee consistently draws attention to 'Hollywood is like the Rocky Mountains, the higher up you get the whiter it gets and this year's Academy Awards will be yet another Rocky Mountain Oscar,' - Rev Al Sharpton 'Somebody asked was I gonna watch the mother****ing Oscars. F*** no! What the f*** am I gonna watch that bulls*** for? They ain't got no n***** nominated. All these great movies and all this great s*** ya'll keep stealing from us. F*** you! F*** you!' - Snoop Dog to TMZ 'Why is this a conversation that we only have once a year? Every year we get all fired up and then the rest of the year nobody says anything.... So I'm not going to boycott, but I'm going to continue to bitch as I have all year round because I'm tired of seeing movies where no one is represented except a bit of the population, not all of it,' - Whoopi Goldberg 'If you think back 10 years ago, the Academy was doing a better job. Think about how many more African Americans were nominated.... And all of a sudden, you feel like we're moving in the wrong direction' - George Clooney 'Our boys are being shot left and right. People are starving. People are trying to pay bills. And you're talking about some f*****g actors and Oscars. It just ain't that deep' - Janet Hubert 'When Jada comes out as Gay and her beard husband admits his first marriage ended when she walked in to him **** servicing his Sugar Daddy Benny Medina ..then I will listen to them' - Alexis Arquette 'Yo, Chris. Come check me out at #TheOscars this year. They got me parking cars on G level' - Don Cheadle peaking out: William H. Macy and Lupita Nyong'o 'It can't be about box office, because I think black actors and stories along those lines have done very, very well, obviously' - Steve McQueen 'I think that diversity is the American superpower. That's why we're great. So many different people from so many different places adding their ideas, their inspirations, their influences to this beautiful American gumbo. so when I look at the series of nominations of the Academy, it is not reflecting that beauty' - Will Smith 'It's anti-white racism. Maybe black actors don't deserve to be on the final stretch?' - Charlotte Rampling 'I do support the Oscar Ban movement's position that the nominations do not reflect the diversity of our community. The Oscar Ban movement reflects a larger discussion about racism in the criminal justice system. I hope the Oscar Ban movement opens the way for my peers to open their hearts to the #BlackLivesMatter movement as well' - Mark Ruffalo 'I think everybody acknowledges that everything evolves and changes. It is going to evolve and change more, you can see that coming' - Danny Boyle Unconvinced: Sir Michael Caine (left), Academy Award nominee Charlotte Rampling while Reese Witherspoon called for a change to Academy voting membership 'There's loads of black actors. In the end you can't vote for an actor because he's black. You can't say 'I'm going to vote for him, he's not very good, but he's black, I'll vote for him' - Sir Michael Caine 'As an Academy member, I would love to see a more diverse voting membership' - Reese Witherspoon 'The idea of a boycott is ridiculous. Are their noses bent out of shape by the award nominations? Of course. That is normal in a town of egos and red carpet desires. While there were many performances of note, not all my choices for 'best' in the various categories have been realized.'I say to all my co-members: 'stop acting like spoiled brats. Look to the next awards show for recognition if you deserve it' - Schindler's List producer Gerald Molen 'I think in our industry and our business, it's really about looking to who's telling what story, who's being allowed to direct, who's being allowed to act in it, and I think that needs to change' - John Kransinski 'The problem is not with the Oscars, the problem is with the Hollywood movie-making system' - Viola Davis Advertisement In his trademark searingly honest style, Rock took aim at a Hollywood diversity crisis that produced an all-white acting nominee line-up for the second year running. Before the ceremony, a few blocks away from the glamour of Hollywood's Dolby Theatre, about 40 people gathered to make the case for more diversity in a rally organized by civil rights leader Al Sharpton. He had called for Americans to 'tune-out' the live telecast, the most watched non-sports TV event of the year. Director Spike Lee, who shunned the Academy Awards ceremony along with actor Will Smith, instead attended a New York Knicks basketball game on Sunday. However a wider Oscar boycott largely failed to gather steam as black celebrities including Kerry Washington, Whoopi Goldberg, Pharrell Williams and John Legend all showed up. 'The big thing is it's almost 100 percent white men who decide what gets made and what doesn't get made,' Lee said. 'That's where the problem is at.' The under-representation of people of color in the film and TV industry has muted the congratulatory tone and prompted pledges to bring more women and minorities into the industry and the Academy. A former Hillsong preacher arrived on his estranged wife's doorstep drunk and grabbed her 'by the neck' after learning she had green-lit a New Year's Eve party at their home, court documents reveal. Pat 'Pasquale' Mesiti pleaded guilty to one count of common assault on Monday, two months after the attack on his wife Andrea in her northwest Sydney home. Prosecutors have agreed to drop a more serious charge of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. A fact sheet tendered in Parramatta Local Court states Mesiti and his wife have been married for 13 years but are now in the final stages of divorce, having separated last April. Scroll down for video Pat 'Pasquale' Mesiti pleaded guilty after the attack on his wife Andrea in her northwest Sydney home Mesiti moved out of the family home in Glenhaven the following month. The former evangelical preacher, who now lives in Kellyville Ridge in Sydney's Hills district, has penned a number of self-help books including Staying Together Without Falling Apart, billed as a definitive guide to helping men and women 'thrive together in a modern day relationship'. Documents tendered in Parramatta Local Court suggest the 56-year-old earns $2500 a week on the public speaking circuit. The documents state Mesiti and his wife were both out separately with friends on December 31 last year when Mesiti saw photos posted on Facebook by a young female relative, showing a party in full swing at the Glenhaven house. The former Hillsong preacher grabbed his wife 'by the neck' at their home, court documents reveal A fact sheet tendered in Parramatta Local Court states Mesiti and his wife have been married for 13 years He immediately began calling and texting Mrs Mesiti, warning her he was calling police. 'After arriving home, the accused, being intoxicated, has begun arguing with all the partygoers including (the young relative), demanding them all to get out,' the documents state. 'About 10pm the victim has arrived at the home before walking down the driveway and into the front door.' After a heated verbal argument during which Mrs Mesiti defended allowing the party, Mesiti grabbed his wife by the neck. 'A physical altercation has ensued during which the victim has felt an impact to the right side of her head,' the documents state. Police arrived as Mrs Mesiti and the young relative were leaving in tears. The former evangelical preacher, who now lives in Kellyville Ridge in Sydney's Hills district, has penned a number of self-help books including Staying Together Without Falling Apart The documents state Mesiti and his wife were both out separately with friends on December 31 last year when Mesiti saw photos of a party - at the Glenhaven house - posted on Facebook by a relative Mesiti will remain out on bail until his sentencing next month but must comply with a 12-month apprehended violence order, which bars him from assaulting or stalking Mrs Mesiti or approaching her within 12 hours of consuming alcohol. 'In a nutshell, that means that you cannot do anything that makes her fear for her safety,' Magistrate Karen Stafford told Mesiti on Monday. 'If you have a glass of wine with dinner at 7pm at night, you cannot go and see her until 7am the next morning.' Mesiti did not comment as he left court. The matter is expected to return to Parramatta Local Court for sentencing on March 23. Footage has emerged of the incredible moment a plucky 12-year-old boy touched one of the world's most venomous snakes on its head. Miller Wilson, from Queensland, stumbled across two deadly king cobras during his travels as he embarked on a journey to find wildlife animals in Western Bali. The fearless boy was trekking through the wild in search of the deadly species - accompanied by the Bali Reptile Rescue team - when he spotted one of the snakes coiled up inside a dirt cave. Scroll down for video Footage shows the incredible moment a plucky 12-year-old boy touches a deadly king cobra on its head 'We went out to search for king cobras and after hours of searching, we spotted one well over two metres long,' Miller said in the YouTube video. Showing no signs of fear, young Miller then proceeded to pick up the two metre reptile from its natural habitat by using a long stick to cradle the snake out into the open. 'We're out in west Bali and there's a story from a few days ago - a king cobra bit a cow and the cow died,' Miller claims. 'So We actually went looking for the king cobra and we're not 100 per cent sure if this is the one. Miller Wilson, from Queensland, stumbled across a large king cobras during his travels in Western Bali The fearless boy was trekking through the wild to find snakes, accompanied by the Bali Reptile Rescue team The fearless boy was trekking through the wild when he spotted one of the king cobras in Western Bali Miller can be seen gripping onto the deadly reptile by its tail as it wraps itself around his hand. 'You can hear she's like puffing her lungs up, which is actually a bit of a hissing noise. It's not hissing, it just means "hey, back off" so we're just gonna probably leave her be.' In another piece of footage, Miller calmly places his hand on the cobra's head, claiming the bold move was something he had always wanted to attempt. 'Now the one thing I've always wanted to do with cobras is actually touch them on the head just like that with your hand,' he said. 'But seeing this one was wild and extremely angry, I didn't know I could actually do it so after asking some locals, they said it should be ok so here's how that went down.' Surrounded my members from the Bali Reptile team, Miller stands in front of the snake as he gently places his hand on its head for nearly 10 seconds. Miller calmly places his hand on its head, claiming the bold move was something he always wanted to attempt As the cobra lays on the grass facing the opposite direction, Miller crouches behind the reptile's head The following day, the group managed to relocate a large king cobra in 'someone's backyard' in Western Bali Showing no signs of fear, the reptile was picked up by using a long stick to cradle the snake out into the open The following day, the group managed to relocate a larger cobra in 'someone's backyard'. 'Just before releasing it, my guide let me have an amazing one on one experience,' he said. 'This snake has enough venom to kill a fully grown elephant. You could think how big an elephant is compared to the size of this snake because they have massive venom glands. 'Just behind their eyes, there's actually two bulges and you can probably see that's how much venom they have. They have more venom than any other Australian snakes. As the cobra lays on the grass facing the opposite direction, Miller crouches behind the reptile's head as he slowly reaches his arms out to touch its head. 'After the 3 day experience, I managed to find Pangolins, Stingrays, Loads of snakes, Porcupines, Lizards. But most importantly COBRAS!!' Miller wrote in the caption online. These are the shocking images of a horse which has not been let out of its stall for at least two years after its owner suffered a stroke. The horse, See My Magic, is a Tennessee Walking Horse and is forced to wear a special pair of 'high heel' shoes which make it kick out its front legs when walking. However, since its owner Ted Taylor of Roy Washington suffered a stroke, the horse has been locked up in its box. Scroll down for video This is the shocking image of See My Magic the horse who has been locked up in its stable for several years The horse is forced to wear a special rubber shoe which changes the way it walks and may cause it pain One neighbour reported See My Magic's plight to authorities but his owner is not breaking the law Animal rights site Animal Rights Northwest has posted a series of heartbreaking images of See My Magic locked up. Neighbours have said the horse may have been couped up in its stall in rural west Washington for more than two years. The horse has been fitted with its extended rubber shoes for more than 12 years. Animal rights campaigners want the practice banned. The horses are trained to walk with an elongated gait, known as the 'Big Lick'. The Humane Society of the United States said: 'The Tennessee walking horse is bred for its smooth, natural gaitthe running walkand The HSUS supports the many owners and trainers who use humane training methods to showcase this natural gait, while also working to end the abusive practices often used to create the exaggerated high-stepping gait that has long been associated with soring. One local offered to buy the the horse for $6,000 but the owner then increased the price ot $20,000 'The lives of many Tennessee walking horses trained in this manner are filled with pain, suffering, and fear. Most are kept in stalls the majority of the time. Fitted with tall, heavy shoes, their legs covered with caustic chemicals meant to cause pain, these horses are subjected to extreme cruelty, all for the sake of a ribbon. The HSUS is working to increase the enforcement of the federal Horse Protection Act and other laws that are meant to protect these majestic animals.' Resident Emily Bower reported the conditions the horse was suffering in 2012, but authorities were unable to act as the owner is not breaching any regulations. Megyn Kelly appeared to put her escalating feud with Donald Trump to one side to make a dazzling appearance at the famous Vanity Fair after party. The Fox News anchor attended the party with author husband Douglas Brunt and was pictured arriving in a dazzling full length black dress. Held at Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts, there she rubbed shoulders with the likes of Leonardo DiCaprio, Amy Adams, Chris Rock, Jessica Alba and Jennifer Garner. Fox News anchor Megyn Kelly arrives at the Vanity Fair Oscars after party with her husband Douglas Brunt The Fox News anchor attended the Beverley Hills party with her husband Douglas Brunt During a recent appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert, she addressed her well-publicized dispute with the GOP presidential hopeful. In an early contest, Kelly had grilled Trump about his past treatment of female celebrities he didn't like. The Donald later was hammered for saying in a CNN interview that Kelly had 'blood coming out of her eyes, blood coming out of her wherever. In my opinion, she was off-base.' In January the front-runner boycotted a Republican debate saying Kelly wouldn't treat him fairly. She said the candidates had treated him like 'Voldemort' in two off-camera comments. Fox News said that she did not know Voldemort was the most evil character in the Harry Potter novels and was making a reference to his nickname 'he who shall not be named' because the Republicans on stage had tried to dodge speaking about him. The next Republican debate, scheduled for Thursday on Fox, will see Trump facing Megyn Kelly for the first time since January. During the interview, Kelly wouldn't say what her first question would be, but instead joked that her first comment would be: 'Apology accepted.' But Kelly told Colbert that she doesn't regret questioning Trump on his history of making apparently derogatory statements about women. She said: 'I asked him a debate question he didn't like, I still think it was a very fair question.' Kelly said that she was 'not feuding' with him, but felt that he had 'beef' with her. The presenter looked glamorous in a custom Carmen Marc Valvo all-black ensemble which complemented her sleek hair style The host even went as fair as to say that she 'looking forward to having him on the panel'. Talking about what she would ask the presidential hopeful - who Colbert described as 'just a billionaire who wants to have the nuclear launch codes' - she joked: 'I'm gonna start with, 'Apology accepted.'' Before adding, 'I'm looking forward to him coming. All the questions I had for him the last go-round, I'm just gonna move over to the March 3 debate rundown. 'We're gonna have at it, just like I've had at it with all the other guys and Carly who've been up there. It's gonna be a robust exchange and I think he's gonna walk away saying, 'What was my problem?'' She concluded, 'It's gonna be fine between us.' When pushed to reveal the question she has prepared for him she responded: 'The only thing I really wanted to ask him was he recently said that his supporters are so devoted to him that he could go in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody and he wouldn't lose a single voter. In response, I want to ask him, "Were you talking about me?"' She joked that she doesn't visit Fifth Avenue anymore and called the feud a 'surreal experience'. Jeremy Corbyn has risked causing more tension with his party as he revealed he had appointed Greece's controversial former finance minister Yanis Varoufakis as an economic adviser. The Greek was even too radical for his country's ruling Syriza party, dramatically quitting the government in the midst of the Greek debt crisis last summer after accusing the EU of pursuing 'terrorism' in its demands that his country impose strict austerity in exchange for another bailout. But Mr Corbyn said his role at the heart of the debt negotiations with the EU puts him well-placed to advise the Labour party on how it can 'challenge the notion' of austerity. Scroll down for video Yanis Varoufakis, the ex-Greek finance minister (pictured) has been appointed by Jeremy Corbyn as an economic adviser Even when he was Greece's second most important politician as finance minister at the heart of the country's crippling debt crisis Mr Varoufakis travelled around Athens on his motorbike The Labour leader revealed in his local newspaper that Mr Varoufakis will advise the party in 'some capacity' and said he had met Shadow Chancellor John McDonnell. 'I think the way Greece has been treated is terrible and we should reach out to them,' he told the Islington Tribune. 'I realise we're not in the Eurozone but it's a question of understanding how we challenge the notion that you can cut your way to prosperity when in reality you have to grow your way to prosperity. MARXIST ECONOMIST ACCUSED THE EU OF 'TERRORISM' BEFORE QUITTING GREEK GOVERNMENT Yanis Varoufakis, known for his casual dress sense, arrived to meet George Osborne after Syriza's rise to power last February wearing a leather jacket and a blue shirt without a tie Ex-Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis accused the EU of 'terrorism' when it demanded the Greek government impose a strict programme of austerity in exchange for further bailouts. But he quit the Greek government in protest at his Syriza party's decision to back down to the demands from Greece's creditors and has since embarked on a European tour preaching his Marxist economics. He hailed the rise of his ex-Syriza party as proof the same can happen across the continent, linking arms with Spain's anti-austerity Podemos party before offering to help Jeremy Corbyn draw up his economic blueprint for the UK. Mr Varoufakis, who describes himself as an 'erratic Marxist,' hailed Mr Corbyn's election as Labour leader in September as further proof of the 'sea change' in the election of anti-austerity parties. And after offering his Marxist expertise to the Labour party, he revealed he and Mr Corbyn had shared a platform to protest against Margaret Thatcher in the 1980s. He said in September: 'The similarity that I feel at liberty to mention is that Corbyn and I, probably, coincided at many demonstrations against the Tory government while I lived in Britain in the 1970s and 1980s.' He added: '[We] share many views regarding the calamity that befell working Britons as power shifted from manufacturing to finance.' Mr Varoufakis is renowned for his casual dress sense. He arrived to meet George Osborne in Downing Street last February - following Syriza's election win - wearing a leather jacket and a casual blue shirt without a tie. Even when he was Greece's second most important politician as finance minister at the heart of the country's crippling debt crisis Mr Varoufakis travelled around Athens on his motorbike. Advertisement 'So all of our emphasis and work and campaigning is about an expanding economy and investing in an expanding economy.' Mr Corbyn's hardline opposition to spending cuts and his economic policy to borrow billions of pounds to pump into the economy by borrowing and printing more money helped him win a landslide election in Labour's leadership election last year. His economic policy - overseen by Mr McDonnell - is in line with Mr Varoufakis' left-wing economics and Mr Corbyn has said Labour must learn lessons from the Greek's old party, Syriza, who shocked European leaders last year by storming to power on a promise to end austerity and stand up to Brussels. But despite initially opposing the strict programme of austerity demanded by international creditors in exchange for more bailouts, Syriza's leader Alexis Tsipras was forced to backdown when greece was on the verge of being kicked out of the euro, which would have triggered economic collapse. Greece was already suffering from economic chaos after the five-month stand-off between Syriza and its international creditors - the European Central Bank, the European Commission and the International Monetary Fund - forcing banks to limit cash withdrawals in the country. Mr Varoufakis quit the Government in protest at his party accepting the demands for further austerity. He famously described Europe's demands for austerity as 'like trying to extract milk from a sick cow by whipping it'. He has since toured Europe giving speeches on his Marxist economics and following Mr Corbyn's election as Labour leader he offered to help draw up his economic blueprint. He also revealed that he and Mr Corbyn had shared a platform protesting against the Thatcher government. 'I'm here to learn from your experiences in the context of the sea change we have seen,' he said in September. 'Britain, even though it disdains this particular dimension of its nature, is an essential part of Europe and Europe is in trouble. It has been in trouble for a while.' Revealing his previous history with Mr Corbyn, Mr Varoufakis said later: 'The similarity that I feel at liberty to mention is that Corbyn and I, probably, coincided at many demonstrations against the Tory government while I lived in Britain in the 1970s and 1980s.' He added: '[We] share many views regarding the calamity that befell working Britons as power shifted from manufacturing to finance.' Explaining the decision to appoint him, Mr Corbyn said: 'We both want to see an economic strategy around anti-austerity, and we're both very concerned about the activities and power of the European Central Bank, although Britain is not in the Eurozone and isn't likely to be.' At the time of Syriza's victory in January 2015 Mr Corbyn used a question in the House of Commons to urge David Cameron to congratulate the left-wing party's victory. Mr Corbyn, who was a backbench Labour MP at the time, said there were lessons to be learned from why 'the people of Greece have finally said no to the imposition of the most appalling austerity, the destruction of their public services, high levels of unemployment, and deepening poverty'. Since being elected Labour leader he has promised to renationalise the railways and energy firms, a 7 per cent rise in national insurance for people earning more than 50,000 and an end to austerity while printing billions of pounds in 'people's quantitative easing' to fund housing, energy and transport projects. Jeremy Corbyn, pictured attending a CND rally on Saturday, said Yanis Varoufakis can offer Labour advice on how to fight the narrative of austerity Yanis Varoufakis, pictured right with Alexis Tsipras, the Greek Prime Minister, quit the Syriza party after it backed down to the EU's demands for imposing a programme of austerity Mr Varoufakis is renowned for his casual dress sense. He arrived to meet George Osborne in Downing Street last February - following Syriza's election win - wearing a leather jacket and a casual blue shirt without a tie. Even when he was Greece's second most important politician as finance minister at the heart of the country's crippling debt crisis Mr Varoufakis travelled around Athens on his motorbike. He has described himself as an 'erratic Marxist,' saying the revolutionary socialist was 'responsible for framing my perspective of the world we live in, from my childhood to this day'. Mr Varoufakis was educated in Britain, with a degree and PhD from the University of Essex and another degree from Birmingham University. Last week Mr Turnbull also cried at the Teal Ribbon Breakfast It was during an interview with Indigenous journalist Stan Grant for NITV This is also the language he spoke in his closing the gap speech He cried as he recalled an old sound recording of a lullaby in Ngunawal Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull has been moved to tears for the second time this week during an interview with Indigenous journalist Stan Grant describing the story of an elderly indigenous woman and the importance of preserving native languages. In an interview with NITV on Monday, Mr Turnbull spoke about a book he was shown while researching his Closing The Gap speech. It contained a lullaby in the Ngunnawal language recounted by an elderly woman from the NSW Southern Highlands, who remembered her mother singing it to her. 'The thing that's so sad is to imagine that mother singing that story to her at a time when you were losing culture and the last thing that baby was, was safe,' Mr Turnbull told The Point program. 'That's why it made me sad just to think about it.' It's understood the woman was from the stolen generations. Prime Minister Malcolm Turnbull was reduced to tears during an interview with Indigenous journalist Stan Grant The lullaby book which formed an inspiration for Mr Turnbull's Closing the Gap speech earlier this month Mr Turnbull opened his speech earlier this month in the Ngunnawal language and pledged $20 million in funding for language preservation programs. 'I am looking at the Prime Minister and there are tears in his eyes,' Mr Grant wrote on the NITV website. 'Never before had an Indigenous language been spoken in our Federal Parliament, now the Prime Minister was giving voice to tens of thousands of years of tradition.' In the wide-ranging interview, Mr Turnbull also said a 2017 referendum on constitutional recognition was possible. 'I believe it's feasible to have a vote next year. 'We will need overwhelming support for it to be carried.' He also said the number of indigenous people in jails was totally unacceptable. 'It is a failure across the board,' Mr Turnbull said, adding it was mostly because Aboriginal people were not enjoying economic opportunities. The old sound recording of the lullaby in Ngunawal, the traditional Aboriginal language of the Canberra area reduced him to tears Mr Turnbull said closing the gap and real equality of opportunity would only come about with a whole-of-government approach, with efforts from every ministerial portfolio. 'Indigenous Australians, and all Australians, can count on me to make the decisions that are right.' However, asked if he would continue Tony Abbott's pledge to spend a week in a remote community, Mr Turnbull said he would continue to consult with communities. The 30-minute interview aired on Monday night on The Point on SBS' NITV at 9pm and was the first interview Mr Turnbull has allowed at the official prime ministerial residence. But this isn't the first time he's shed some tears while discussing a moving topic. Last week he was also emotional at the Teal Ribbon Breakfast at Parliament House, while listening to a woman's account of her battle with ovarian cancer. Ann-Maree Mulders spoke of her doctor calling her to discuss her ovarian cancer diagnosis, and how the only things she had in front of her were a big white envelope containing test results and a red pen. The mother of two said she madly started scribbling notes. The prime minister, Malcolm Turnbull, was moved to tears during Ann-Maree Mulders' speech about surviving ovarian cancer, during a breakfast at Parliament House in Canberra The image of her sitting with that envelope was enough to move Malcolm Turnbull, who attended the breakfast with his wife Lucy. 'The courage in which you have battled this disease and the courage in which you told your story here is quite unforgettable,' he said. 'Every single person here has been moved by it.' A visibly emotional Mr Turnbull said the image of Ms Mulders sitting with the envelope was 'very powerful'. He then revealed a personal tale of one of his advisers, a nurse whose mother died from the disease four years ago, and how she didn't recognise her mother was displaying the symptoms. 'By the time she was diagnosed she was, as is so often the case, in the very advanced stages of the disease,' he said. Malcolm Turnbull at the Parliament House breakfast in Canberra with his wife Lucy During his speech Mr Turnbull said every single person at the Teal Ribbon Breakfast had been moved by Ms Mulders' story Mr Turnbull said the fact her daughter didn't have an inkling still haunts her to this day. He stressed the need for more research and for people to know the symptoms of ovarian cancer. 'Greater awareness is a critically important step in the road to early detection,' he said. Opposition Leader Bill Shorten also praised Ms Mulders' courage and that of other survivors. 'You are reluctant conscripts in a war which you never sought,' he said. 'Your story does remind me how much I hate cancer.' Mr Shorten said it was important to take the energy from the room to increase funding for research. The breakfast was held as part of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, recognising women, their families and friends affected by ovarian cancer. Outside, on the lawns in front of Parliament House, 1,480 pinwheels were placed representing the number of Australian women diagnosed with ovarian cancer every year. He also revealed during his speech that the mother of one of his advisers had died four years ago from ovarian cancer She relies on crutches and wheelchair as joints can A student with a rare condition whose joints can dislocate up to 40 times per day was left a note on her car which accused her of faking her disability. Theresa Summerfield, who was born with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS), had used her blue badge to park in a disabled bay at the University of Wolverhampton, where she is doing a PhD. But the 27-year-old was shocked when she returned to her vehicle and found a note on her windscreen which called her 'vile' and accused her of falsely using a disabled badge. Student Theresa Summerfield, who has a rare condition which means her joints can dislocate up to 40 times per day, was left a note on her car which accused her of faking her disability The note accused Mrs Summerfield of using someone else's badge, of being 'vile' and told her to 'rot in hell' The note also said Mrs Summerfield was a 'healthy young woman', adding: 'I hope you rot in hell.' Mrs Summerfield, from Penkirdge, Staffordshire, said: 'I was initially really angry when I saw the note and then I felt really sorry for the person. 'Trying so hard to not appear disabled due to hurtful comments and try to live a normal life is hard, I was really hurt by it.' Mrs Summerfield was born with EDS but had a stroke at the age of 20, which left her reliant on crutches and sometimes a wheelchair. The condition is so severe that she can sometimes dislocate her shoulder while combing her hair. She can also dislocate a rib by coughing and can dislocate her hips, knees and ankles by walking too much. Mrs Summerfield was born with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome (EDS) but had a stroke at the age of 20, which left her reliant on crutches (pictured) The PhD student also suffers from Crohn's disease, which gives her stomach cramps and pains. On the day the note was left, Mrs Summerfield had gone to the university without crutches or a wheelchair. She said she is trying to use the walking aids less, because of the amount of abuse she gets from strangers. The full note read: 'I don't know who's [sic] disability parking badge you are using but it's not yours! How dare you park in a disability space when you are a healthy young woman. 'You should be disgusted in yourself. One day I hope you know what it is like to be disabled, then you will know. 'Parking in a disability space is not fair and you are a vile woman abusing parking for the infirm. I hope you rot in hell!' Mrs Summerfield later posted a picture of the note online, urging people not to charge others on their appearance. She wrote: 'I use disabled parking bays with MY blue badge because I NEED to. I may be able to walk into my office, or a shop, but I never know what's going to dislocate next. 'I don't know if it will take me an hour to walk a few hundred yards to my car because, yet again, something's popped out. 'Next time you want to call someone "vile" I suggest you take a good long look in a mirror, where you will surely see a vile person. I am not particularly angry with you. I pity you for your obvious ignorance and intolerance of others.' She added: 'I sincerely hope you never become disabled, because, unlike you, I wouldn't wish this on anybody. The PhD student had used her blue badge (pictured) to park in a disabled bay when she went to work at the University of Wolverhampton 'Now I'm going back to my life. A life filled with love and support but also dedication, passion, and ambition. You will always be ignorant, but I will be a success.' Mrs Summerfield said she has often received abuse from strangers about her conditions. She said that she has been accused of using her crutches for show, or to avoid working. She said: 'You can't judge just by looking at people - it's so hard being younger as well because people claim I'm on crutches as an excuse not to work. 'I have always worked, people just assume.' Mrs Summerfield's husband added: 'If they could spend just a minute in her body they would be rushing to A&E in pain needing painkillers that don't work. It makes me sick.' Advertisement We are here to teach these boys they must learn to behave, says Siri Bernhardsson as she patrols the swimming pool wearing a bikini. We are tired of men thinking they can come to Sweden and molest women when all we want is to be left in peace to swim without being felt up. Siri, 24, an assistant nurse, is one quarter of the Groping Guards an all-girl, bikini-clad vigilante group who monitor the swimming baths around Kalmar, Sweden, to stop women from being molested by young migrant men. Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, Siri revealed: 'Loads of women write to us and say that they have been groped by young men. Groping Guards: These are the bikini-clad vigilantes of Kalmar, Sweden, who have begun patrolling swimming pools to stop sex attacks On patrol: Leader Siri Bernhardsson (left) launched the group after hearing of a wave of sexual assaults across Europe on New Year's Eve. Pictured, Siri Bernhardsson and patrol member Lotta Stenberg (right) 'It happens at concerts, in train stations and in swimming pools. Most of the victims feel ashamed and don't report it to the police. We know that there have been attacks in our swimming pool that have not been reported. 'They have been forced to separate men from women in the jacuzzis because of all the attacks. That should not happen in 2016 in Sweden.' In Kalmar, a sleepy town south of Stockholm with 65,000 people, 34 asylum centres have already opened with more planned to come with the 6,000 new arrivals. The Groping Guards have patrolled two swimming pools in the area, Aventyrsbadet, in Kalmar, and Simhallen, in Nybro, a village or suburb just outside Kalmar. On New Years Eve in the towns main square at least 15 young women reported being groped by migrants in scenes similar to those in Cologne. Kalmars police spokesman Johan Brunn described how groups of men 'formed rings around the girls and started molesting them'. 'They grabbed their breasts and genitals,' he told MailOnline. 'In some cases they tried to drag girls into a waiting car, but luckily those girls escaped.' In the towns leisure centre five women since October have reported being groped in their swimsuits by asylum seekers but many more incidents go unreported, police say. Vigilant: The group patrol two swimming pools in the municipality of Kalmar - Aventyrsbadet, in the town, and Simhallen, in Nybro, a village or suburb just outside of Kalmar. The pictures are taken in both locations Fierce: Even in the small town of Kalmar, there are now 34 asylum centres and even more are on their way. Pictured, the Groping Guard patrol their town's swimming pool Protection: As well as patrol the pool to try to catch molesters in the act, the group talk to female swimmers and warn them about the risks Kalmar Police spokesman Ulf Karlsson told MailOnline: 'Last year we had a few incidents in the jacuzzi and a couple in the swimming pools. But when you talk about these kind of crimes there are always a lot of incidents that go unrecorded. 'The ones who have been attacked might feel ashamed and keep what has happened to themselves.' But the rising tide of attacks prompted assistant nurse Siri and her fellow Groping Guards to take action and protect female swimmers. 'I read about what had happened at the swimming centre in Stockholm and wanted to keep the women in Kalmar safe from this,' she said. 'That is why we started patrolling the swimming pools. The place where women are most exposed. Swimming pools have become prime hunting grounds in Europe for gangs of men looking to prey on vulnerable women, she added. Across Europe the number of women being attacked in swimming pools are increasing. Watchful eye: After hearing about the New Year's Eve assaults, Siri tried to rally support for organisations who help sexual assault victims Presence: But the 24-year-old Siri soon struck on the idea of a more hands-on approach, by protecting the women in the swimming pools around Kalmar Helping hand: Several other women have already joined Siri in her crusade, including Ella Sjoberg (left) and Malin Gustafsson (right) Powerful: The group, which has become a big talking point in the small town, wants to show that women aren't just victims to be targeted Kalmar Police spokesman Ulf Karlsson told MailOnline: 'Last year we had a few incidents in the jacuzzi and a couple in the swimming pools. But when you talk about these kind of crimes there are always a lot of incidents that go unrecorded. 'The ones who have been attacked might feel ashamed and keep what has happened to themselves.' But the rising tide of attacks prompted assistant nurse Siri and her fellow Groping Guards to take action and protect female swimmers. 'I read about what had happened at the swimming centre in Stockholm and wanted to keep the women in Kalmar safe from this,' she said. 'That is why we started patrolling the swimming pools. The place where women are most exposed. Swimming pools have become prime hunting grounds in Europe for gangs of men looking to prey on vulnerable women, she added. Across Europe the number of women being attacked in swimming pools are increasing. In January a German leisure centre became the first in the country to ban all migrants after a schoolgirl was sexually assaulted in a public swimming pool by Syrian teenagers. Three Syrian boys were arrested earlier this month over the attack at a leisure centre in Munich as the country grapples with growing concerns about sex crimes perpetrated by asylum seekers In response to growing concerns, a leisure centre in Bornheim, North Rhine-Westphalia, has now barred all migrants. The ban also follows an attack by an 18-year-old refugee on a 54-year-old woman in Bornheim, where he had grabbed her by the private parts and tried to kiss her. In Stockholm, at the city's largest aquatics centre, Eriksdalsbadet, there have been 25 incidents reported since last January. The city has seen a spike in sexual assaults, and Swedish police have resorted to sending undercover officers into swimming pools in an attempt to halt the rising numbers. In January a number of girls reported being sexually assaulted by young male asylum seekers at a public swimming pool in central Stockholm. The four cases all involved girls under the age of 18, who claim they were sexually assaulted by migrant teenage boys at Eriksdalsbadet, the biggest aquatics centre in Stockholm. Another case which send shock-waves across the continent saw a ten-year-old boy raped by a 20-year-old Iraqi migrant in a swimming pool in Austria. The attacker claimed he raped the boy because he had 'too much sexual energy' and it was a 'sexual emergency. Problem: The women in the Groping Guard say that one of the biggest obstacles in tackling the issue is that no one wants to talk about it In response to the attacks, copycat Groping Guards are patrolling swimming baths in at least four towns - including Stockholm. Siri's friend and fellow guard Ella Sjoberg, 28, revealed: When I was 16 and went to the swimming pool, you could see creepy old men staring. 'But for a 16-year-old girl today it is different. They are attacked by groups of boys. They charge them into corners which is totally disrespectful and must terrify them. 'Everyone knows that these attacks started after a lot of immigrants came to Sweden and everyone knows who the perpetrators are, but we can't really talk about the problem here in Sweden.' Vulnerable: By not discussing the issue, the women say, Sweden is only making the problem of integration even more difficult to address Determined: Managers of the Aventyrsbadet swimming pool in Kalmar say that numbers of visitors have dropped since the women started patrolling there Outrage: Siri, however, claims that the numbers at the swimming pool have fallen because young women don't feel safe there anymore 'Integration is the most important issue we have to deal with in Sweden. But no one is talking about it. 'How will anyone be able to solve any problems if they are not discussed?' But the Groping Guards are not welcomed by everyone in Kalmar and the swimming pool manager has objected to their presence, claiming they make people feel unsafe, and that the number of swimmers has dropped since they started patrols. 'I can't believe they said that,' Siri retorted. 'The number of visitors has probably declined because young women don't feel safe here anymore and we are here to make that stop. 'If we organise this patrol perhaps we can address that this is a big problem in Sweden, and more women in Sweden would be willing to stand up and say "this is not okay, I am reporting you to the police". Advertisement A British refugee campaigner has been pelted with rocks in the 'Jungle' migrant camp in Calais while talking live to Sky News as French authorities were dismantling the sprawling centre after a court ruling. Calais volunteer Simon Dunning was urging David Cameron to 'let in six and a half thousand people' living in the camp when stones were seen flying by, forcing reporter Mark Stone to interrupt him. 'We'll move farther down the bank because they're throwing rocks at us,' he said before ducking to avoid the stones. The incident took place as helmeted workers began pulling down makeshift structures where migrants sleep as they were relocated to purpose-built accommodation. Two bulldozers and around 20 workers were employed in dismantling the camp as 55 police cars and two anti-riot vans stationed nearby. The demolition of the southern part of the Calais 'Jungle' took place as a refugee campaigner was pelted with rocks while talking live to Sky News Calais volunteer Simon Dunning was urging David Cameron to 'let let in six and a half thousand people here who are begging for him to find sanctuary from the war' when reporter Mark Stone interrupted him 'We'll move farther down the bank because the're throwing rocks at us,' he said as stones were seeing flying by Refugee organisations said thousands had their shelters displaced and others moved into shipping containers set in a nearby park after authorities said they would use force if necessary to move the camp's inhabitants Refugee organisations said thousands had their shelters displaced and others moved into shipping containers set in a nearby park after authorities said they would use force if necessary to move the camp's inhabitants. Clashes with police broke out as about 150-200 migrants and activists threw stones and officers reacted firing teargas and water cannons. Three makeshift shelters were set ablaze in protest against the dismantlement of the camp. Ahead of the demolition, hundreds of riot police moved into the camp and ordered 'Please evacuate the area' as bewildered migrants asked 'Where are we meant to go?'. Many officers were carrying riot shields and tear gas canisters, as well as weapons including pistols and rifles. Our orders are to disperse people peacefully, said an officer. We are are doing everything possible to keep the situation peaceful. Clashes with police broke out as about 150-200 migrants and activists threw stones and officers reacted firing teargas and water cannons Three makeshift shelters were set ablaze in protest against the dismantlement of the camp Ahead of the demolition, hundreds of riot police moved into the camp and ordered 'Please evacuate the area' as bewildered migrants asked 'Where are we meant to go? Water cannon was deployed in a bid to clear migrants who were defiantly standing up against the officials attempting to clear the site Heavily armoured riot police close in on a group of migrants as workers try to clear the southern section of the Jungle One young migrant wearing a pakol in led away by a number of the police as security officials tried to clear the site Population in the southern portion of the camp, which is in the process of being demolished, is estimated to be at either 800-1,000 or 3,455 Helmeted workers pull down makeshift structures where migrants sleep in the southern sector of the camp near the northern port of Calais A French court on February 25 gave the green light to plans to evacuate hundreds of migrants from the camp French authorities have begun dismantling the sprawling migrant camp known as the 'Jungle' Hundreds of police riot police moved into the camp and ordered 'Please evacuate the area' as bewildered migrants asked 'Where are we meant to go?' Kazim Lahr, a 22-year-old Afghan refugee, said: We expected them to move in this week, but the number of police is astonishing. We have been told to get out of the south side of the camp, which is where all our homes and restaurants are. We have nowhere else to go. Me and my friends are preparing to stay here, as our only intention is to get to Britain. The French treat us like animals, but the British will not. All they want to do is herd us into a prison so they can register our details and watch us all the time. There are no cooking facilities inside the units, and space is very limited. Many officers were carrying riot shields and tear gas canisters, as well as weapons including pistols and rifles Authorities said they would use force if necessary to move the camp's inhabitants to purpose-built accommodation Helmeted workers were spotted dismantling makeshift structures where migrant sleep in the 'Jungle' The situation remained calm, although one member of the British 'No Borders' activist group was arrested While official figures say 1,000 people remain inside the main camp a census carried out by charities recorded 3,455 people living there. The situation remained calm, although one member of the British 'No Borders' activist group was arrested. 'We are carrying out our orders so that the migrants leave the camp and we will continue this work this morning... so that the destruction work can continue calmly and that the migrants are not under pressure from the No Borders activists,' said local authority head Fabienne Buccio. Buccio said three-quarters of the shacks in the southern half of the camp were now empty after migrants were encouraged to leave in recent days. The move comes after a Lille court gave authorities the all-clear to evict migrants from their tents in the densely populated portion of the camp, although it said they cannot entirely raze it. Local authority head Fabienne Buccio said three-quarters of the shacks in the southern half of the camp were now empty after migrants were encouraged to leave in recent days Some migrants have been offered accommodation in converted shipping units in the north side, but there are not enough to go round A spokesperson for the court confirmed common spaces like schools and places of worship must be kept in place. Calais mayor Natacha Bouchart said: 'I am satisfied by this responsible decision which will allow the progressive dismantling of the southern part of the Jungle to proceed over the next three weeks.' Some migrants have been offered accommodation in converted shipping units in the north side, but there are not enough to go round. The units are behind security fences, and all those who apply for a heated unit have to supply palm prints. They are like prisons very few of us want to go there, said an Afghan migrant, who asked to be referred to as Ali, 25. Agents dismantle shelters in the "jungle" migrants and refugees camp in Calais, northern France A French court on February 25 gave the green light to plans to evacuate hundreds of migrants the southern half of the sprawling camp in the port town A businesswoman claims her former husband is 'frittering' away their 18million fortune after he threatened to leave her 'penniless' when she asked for a divorce. Maya Kanev-Lipinski, 44, and Shahar Lipinski, 45, built up a multi-million pound student housing empire over the course of their marriage. But Mrs Kanev-Lipinski claims her ex-husband has been on a 'spending spree' since their 2012 split, buying a luxury convertible Bentley and luxury penthouses. She also claims he has shifted 17million out of their jointly-owned companies in recent years, making it more difficult for her to access the money. Mr Lipinski denies these allegations. The couple are now locked in a High Court battle over the division of their assets, with Mrs Kanev-Lipinski seeking a 9million payout over the coming months. Legal battle: Maya Kanev-Lipinski, 44, pictured right outside the High Court, claims ex-husband Shahar Lipinski, 45, pictured left outside court, has been on a 'spending spree' since their divorce in 2012 The court heard how the couple had 'built up a very successful multi-million-pound business, investing in and providing high quality student accommodation,' based in Nottingham and Leicester. They lived with their two daughters in a sprawling 2million country pile near Nottingham, which was set in over an acre of landscaped grounds. But the relationship soured and the Jewish couple were divorced by a rabbinical court in Israel in 2012. Andrew Hunter QC, representing Mrs Kanev-Lipinski, told Mrs Justice May that, prior to their split, the couple signed a 'divorce agreement' that the assets of the marriage would be divided equally. But he said his client's ex-husband had been treating their shared assets as 'his own personal wallet' and that he appeared determined to follow through on his threat to leave her 'penniless'. He also said that family companies worth 13.3million in 2013 are now valued at minus 4million. Specialist accountants are currently engaged in valuing the ex-couple's assets and are shortly due to report back to the Israeli court. Mr Hunter said Mrs Kanev-Lipinski is hoping for a 9 million divorce payout within the next few months but that she is desperately worried her ex-husband was 'dispersing' their fortune. She also fears he is attempting to 'mislead' the valuers, in a bid to massively slash the sum the divorce court will award her. Country estate: The couple used to live with their two daughters in this 2million home near Nottingham Mr Hunter argued that Mr Lipinski had the 'opportunity, propensity and motive' to make it as difficult as possible for his ex-wife to get hold of the family wealth. Mr Hunter said: 'We feel that the family silver is being sold. We fear that, as judgment day approaches, Mr Lipinski will continue to take money out of the companies that he has been treating as his personal wallet in a completely uncontrolled and untransparent manner. 'Our fear is that he will be frittering away money on convertible Bentleys, penthouses and the like so that the assets are not there for enforcement.' Money had been moved into 'speculative, high risk investments' and Mr Hunter said: 'What is left is a diminished pot of assets... there has been zero transparency.' The court heard that Mrs Kanev-Lipinski obtained a temporary High Court asset freezing injunction against her former husband in December last year. She now wants that order made permanent, effectively giving her control over his finances until she receives her payout. Elizabeth Jones QC, for Mr Lipinski, said the case was 'very unfortunate' and denied that he was in any way trying to hide money from his ex-wife. She said: 'The accountant did not find anything untoward in the management or affairs of the companies.' She said her client has simply been moving investments around whilst doing his best to keep the businesses afloat after the impact of 2008 banking crisis. 'The overall position is that the companies have avoided insolvency and are now more valuable as a result of the various actions of Shahar over the last three and a half years,' she said. 'The alleged suspicious reduction in net assets is explained within the financial statements... there is absolutely no evidence of dissipation of assets.' Of the accusation that he had been 'frittering' away the family money, she added 'Shahar and Maya have obviously been used to wealthy lifestyles.' Miss Jones said that Mr Lipinski's convertable Bentley had cost 70,000, but his ex-wife had herself spent 95,000 on cars since the split. The 'penthouses' were owned by the former couple's shared companies, so could not been viewed as 'dissipation' or 'frittering'. The lawyer added: 'Maya's evidence spends a great deal of time dealing with the penthouse apartments and the Bentley, but they simply do not evidence dissipation of assets. A man weighing 175 pounds was booted off an aircraft after being told it was too heavy. Dan Nykaza, a dentist, was in his seat and belted up for the American Airlines 'Envoy' regional flight departing from O'Hare to Salt Lake City. But as the plane was preparing for take-off, Mr Nykaza and another passenger were forcibly removed from the aircraft to reduce the weight. Dan Nykaza, a dentist, was belted up on his flight bound for Salt Lake City when he was booted off the plane Speaking to ABC7 Chicago, he said: 'I'm sitting on the plane 20-30 minutes and the flight attendants came up to me and said "You have to get off. You have to get off. You're out of the plane." 'And I'm like 'Why?" Because there was too much weight on the plane and nobody would take the voucher they were offering. So they chose two people, me being one of them. 'So I missed the entire weekend. My nephew was there, my daughter, it was sad. 'I was in shock, I didn't sleep that night, I was kinda numb all first day or two.' Airline expert Brian Sumers said: 'Every airplane has maximum take-off weight. They can't take off if they are any heavier than that.' He said that if no one voluntarily takes a voucher, they try to disrupt as few people as possible. Dan Nykaza had been planning to travel from Chicago's O'Hare airport (pictured) to Salt Lake City, but was forcibly removed to reduce the weight from the aircraft Mr Nykaza, who has 'platinum status,' said he was so disgusted by the decision he turned down the $200 voucher. Following the incident, he sent an email to the airline but did not hear anything back for a week. American Airlines have now issued an apology and provided Mr Nykaza with a $500 voucher and 15,000 air miles. A spokesman said under a federal passenger rights law, he ought to have been offered more than a $200 voucher. An unlucky reptile has trapped its head in a mouse trap while following the scent of what it hoped was dinner. The adult western brown snake was found by the Alice Springs Reptile Centre in Northern Territory after Rex Neindorf received a call on Friday to alert them, ABC News reported. They quickly called in snake handler Nadia Rosen who learned the reptile had trapped its head in a reusable mouse trap. 'It wasn't happy, the poor thing,' Ms Rosen told the ABC. Scroll down for video Unlucky fella: The adult western brown snake that got its head stuck in a mouse trap in Alice Springs, Northern Territory, Australia Ms Rosen had to use tongs to free the snake measuring 90 centimetres once it had been returned to the Reptile Centre. 'I was quite surprised that it wasn't hurt at all.' 'The award for the most stupid western brown snake on the planet goes to this fine specimen,' a spokesperson for the centre wrote in a Facebook post. The spokesperson said it is most likely the scent of the mouse was on the trap which lured the snake in. 'Luckily for this snake it was a plastic mouse trap so the snake was caught but released unharmed.' Online comments ranged from 'poor snake I hope he is ok' to 'only good snake is a dead one.' Western browns are among the world's most venomous snakes and there is enough venom in their bite to kill six adults. The snake will be released back into the wild once the Reptile Centre gives it the all clear. But this isn't the first time a snake has run into trouble with mouse traps. Terrifying footage has emerged of the moment a man found a venomous snake caught between a mouse trap Recently terrifying footage emerged of a venomous snake caught between a mouse trap inside his family home. Anthony Parker, from Cascade in Western Australia, said his family had set up several mouse traps around his home over the weekend after his wife heard what she thought were mice. But last Monday evening, the young father was enjoying a cup of tea in front of his computer when he found a large tiger snake after hearing the trap go snap. 'I turned around, had a quick look and literally jumped off my stool because there was a snake about three metres away from me in the mouse-trap,' Mr Parker told The Esperance Express. 'It was just trying to escape by trying to bite the trap off I think; I think it may have thought the trap was alive trying to get it.' He believes the mice could have led the reptile into their property when the family were away. Mr Parker said he usually doesn't kill snakes but the trap had made it difficult to release the distressed reptile so he decided to put it out of its misery. 'I did feel sorry for it, but I couldn't risk moving it when it was like that,' he said. 'I didn't want it in the house, but I don't kill snakes unless they are around the house because we have a little boy.' The father was enjoying a cup of tea when he found a large tiger snake after hearing the trap go snap During the encounter, Mr Parker filmed the snake in the trap and uploaded the video on social media, so he could have a tale to tell his family and friends. 'Having u [sic] cuppa an [sic] heard the mouse trap go off! I love mouse traps,' he wrote. The video has since amassed more than 6,000 views and several responses. 'Yuck!! Makes my skin crawl,' one woman wrote. Another said: 'Oh my!!! Get me my shovel. YUKKO!!!' 'OMG! Not what you'd expect to find in your mouse trap! Only in Australia hey!' one said. A seamstress accused of snatching a baby from a maternity ward in South Africa nearly 18 years ago told a court today she bought her for 50 from a mystery woman at a train station. The 50-year-old is accused of abducting three-day-old Zephany Nurse, known as South Africas Madeleine McCann, from her hospital cot. She told the court in Cape Town she hid a miscarriage from her husband and turned to a mystery woman called 'Sylvia' who promised to provide her with fertility pills or help her adopt. Accused: A seamstress, 50, today told a court in Cape Town how she bought a baby from a woman called 'Sylvia' for 50 - and was handed the baby at a train station Baby sale: The woman (left), who can't be identified, told the court how she hid a miscarriage from her husband (right) and turned to the woman who promised her fertility pills or the chance to adopt a baby She told Western Cape High Court: 'The woman told me about a young girl who was interested in putting her baby for adoption. I said we could talk about it.' She said she arranged to meet the woman at the station in a suburb of Cape Town a few days later but another woman arrived and gave her a baby. She went on: 'Suddenly this lady approached me with a baby in her hands. She asked me if I was waiting for Sylvia, I said "yes". 'She said "Sylvia told me to give you this baby and go to Retreat Hospital and phone her from there". So I put the baby in my arms and went to the hospital.' She said she phoned Sylvia, who told her the baby had been put up for adoption by a mother who didn't want her. Sylvia said she would send the adoption papers, she told the court. 'Something felt so wrong. I didn't have any adoption papers or anything,' the woman said. Justice: Earlier the baby's real mother Celeste Nurse broke down as she described the day her daughter was taken by a woman 'dressed as a nurse' as she recovered from a C-section Found: Zephany's biological father Morne (pictured with his new partner) was in court to hear his daughter's alleged kidnapper give her account of how she came to raise his child But despite her reservations, she phoned her family who took her home. 'I didn't tell anyone about the miscarriage, I was so devastated,' she went on. 'I felt confident that I would fall pregnant again because Sylvia was going to help me with the fertility pills. I didn't know where the baby was born, or who the baby's mother was. 'I was looking at the baby and I thought, "the mother doesn't want this baby, I am going to take the baby until the adoption papers are through". I didn't know the baby was kidnapped.' Asked why never told Zephany or her husband the truth, she replied: 'The three of us became so close to each other, and I was so close to telling her. 'I was planning to tell her when she finished school.' The woman cannot be named as it would identify Zephany. She admitted the first few years were difficult for the family and that she had not 'easily' bonded with her new daughter. 'I initially struggled to be close to her. I remember Zephany questioning my love for her... It took me years to accept her as my own daughter. 'Although I was not her biological mother I raised her as my own child. 'I had felt uneasy due to the lack of paperwork, however as no one wanted her returned, and because the parents did not want to keep her, I accepted her as my daughter.' Baby Zephany was three days old when she was snatched from her cot in the maternity ward of Groote Schuur Hospital by a woman dressed as a nurse. Earlier her real mother Celeste Nurse, 37, broke down as she told the court how the baby was taken as she recovered from a C-section. Horror: Zephany was just three days old when a woman walked into the room at Groote Schuur Hospital and took her from her maternity cot - not to be seen again by her family for many years Appeals: The family has worked hard to make sure people don't forget about their missing daughter over the years, including a big appeal in 2010 in the local newspaper the Cape Argus, but no one ever come forward Celeste and her estranged husband Morne Nurse did not see their daughter again for 18 years after she was taken even though she was living just a mile away. At an earlier hearing Mr Nurse described the extraordinary coincidence last year which had led the couple to realise that the girl, who was by then 18, was their abducted daughter. By chance she ended up at the same school as their younger daughter, Cassidy, and the girls became friends. He told the court how he noted how the girl resembled him and his other children and was approximately the same age as his missing daughter - and launched his own investigation into her true identity. He arranged to meet her in McDonalds and, through his own detective work, learned the truth. Denial: The woman broke down as she told how detectives searched her home in February last year. She was later arrested and had to give a DNA sample Baby: Zephany Nurse was snatched from her hospital cot in the maternity ward in Cape Town in 1997 and spent the next 18 years being brought up by another family The defendant told the court how the family had lived happily with their daughter for almost 20 years. That happiness was brought to an abrupt halt in February last year when detectives searched their home, took DNA samples and she was arrested. She told the court: 'I was calm until they said that she couldn't stay with me in the house any more. 'I just burst into tears. I asked them, "can I just see her again, and they just said no". That was the last time I saw her.' When asked why she hadn't made greater efforts to track down adoption papers, the defendant said she had lost Sylvia's number. 'I wanted the biological mother's details to tell the child who her mother was one day,' she said. 'I tried. I didn't go out to look for her because I didn't know where the child was born or where the mother was from.' Precious: The family only have a few photos of Zephany taken before she was snatched. Here she is with her uncle Abraham Nurse in Hospital on April 29, 1997 The 14-year-old girl who was declared dead after the shootings in Kalamazoo is now breathing on her own. Abigail Kopf has been taken off of a ventilator nine days after she was shot in the head during the murder spree in the Michigan city that left six people dead on February 20. The youngster was taken to hospital where doctors started preparing her body so her organs could be donated. But she showed she was still clinging to life when she squeezed her mother's hand from her hospital bed. Scroll down for video Abigail Kopf, 14, has been taken off of a ventilator and is breathing on her own nine days after she was shot in the head during the murder spree that left six people dead in Kalamazoo, Michigan, on February 20 Her mother Vickie Kopf posted an update about her daughter on Facebook, on Sunday.Mrs Kopf also included a link to a GoFundMe page which has already raised more than $20,000 towards her medical expenses Her mother Vickie Kopf posted an update about her daughter on Facebook, on Sunday, saying her ventilator was removed and that she's breathing on her own. She wrote: 'They just removed abigail vent she's breathing on her own and she wiped off her own face.' Mrs Kopf also included a link to a GoFundMe page that, as of Monday morning, had already raised more than $20,000 towards her medical expenses. Abigail was outside a Cracker Barrel in Kalamazoo when the gunman hit. She was sat in a car alongside four people who were killed: Mary Lou Nye, 63, Mary Jo Nye, 60, Dorothy Brown, 74, and Barbara Hawthorne, 68. High school senior Tyler Smith and his father Rich were then gunned down at a car dealership. Tiana Carruthers was shot at an apartment building survived. Police say she jumped in front of children when the suspect started firing. The rampage ended when father-of-two Jason Dalton surrendered. The 45-year-old was arrested and is now facing six counts of murder. Three days after the shootings, Mrs Kopf and her husband Gene held an emotional press conference Monday with the medical director of Bronson Children's Hospital where Abigail has been undergoing treatment since. The schoolgirl's mother said: 'Abigail is strong and she is a vibrant, beautiful, young lady. And she did not deserve this. And neither did her grandmother or those other victims.' They have been at her bedside the entire time. Funerals and memorial services were held over the weekend. The last was held Sunday at a Battle Creek church to honor Mary Jo Nye, a retired teacher who was killed at the restaurant. Uber driver Jason Dalton, 45, has been charged with killing six people and injuring two during the deadly rampage. He reportedly picked up and dropped off fares during the attacks Abigail Kopf was inside a car with sisters-in-law Mary Jo Nye, 60, (left) and Mary Lou Nye, 63, (right) when they were shot and killed She had been on to the theater with her grandmother Barbara Hawthorne (left), 68. Both her and Dorothy Brown (right), 70, were also identified as victims of the rampage. None of those shot and killed are believed to have known Dalton A friend of Mary Jo Nye wipes tears away before continuing to speak at a memorial service honoring Nye Pastor Chad Parolee speaks at a memorial service honoring Nye, who was in the car with the youngster FROM HIS FIRST FARE TO HIS SURRENDER: HOW THE KALAMAZOO SHOOTING SPREE UNFOLDED SATURDAY - FEBRUARY 20 - Around 4:30 p.m.: Dalton picks up a fare, Matt Mellen, who tells WWMT-TV that after ending a phone call, Dalton began speeding, sideswiping cars and driving over lawns and medians. He says he jumped out and ran when the car stopped, and that he called police and tried to warn Uber. - 5:42 p.m.: The Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office is called to the scene of the first attack, an apartment complex on the eastern edge of Kalamazoo County where a woman had been shot multiple times. She is expected to survive. - Around 7 p.m.: Dalton is seen at his home, according to a neighbor. James Block, who has lived next door to Dalton for 17 years, says his niece saw Dalton pull out of his driveway, rapidly back up toward his garage, then drive off. - 10:08 p.m.: A father and his 17-year-old son are fatally shot while looking at cars at Seelye Kia of Kalamazoo. - 10:24 p.m.: Five people including a 14-year-old girl are gunned down in the parking lot of a Cracker Barrel restaurant. Four are killed, and the teenager is critically wounded. SUNDAY - 12:40 a.m.: Dalton is arrested without incident after a deputy spotted his vehicle driving through downtown Kalamazoo after leaving a bar parking lot. Advertisement A woman who spent three years fighting a conviction for biting a policewoman on the thigh and hitting her in the face has been jailed for six months. Daniell Staskos had an argument with her former boyfriend as they walked along a street in Fremantle, Perth in January 2013 and was being arrested by three officers when she attacked Senior Constable Kelly Robinson. Staskos faced a mandatory six months in prison but successfully appealed the verdict in the Supreme Court before prosecutors won a challenge in the Court of Appeal and then the High Court refused to consider her appeal. A woman who spent three years fighting a conviction for biting a policewoman on the thigh and hitting her in the face (pictured) has been jailed for six months Daniell Staskos (pictured) had an argument with her former boyfriend as they walked along a street in Fremantle, Perth in January 2013 The Fremantle Magistrates Court heard on Monday that Staskos' actions were out of character. Magistrate Steven Malley said it was 'a sad day' to have to jail a person who was otherwise of good character and said he did not think jail should be the only option. 'My hands are otherwise tied,' he said. Magistrate Malley said even if the Queen had provided a reference for Staskos he would still be bound by the legislation. 'This should be a warning to the whole community,' he said. Staskos and her supporters began crying in court when the sentence was handed down, with one calling out as she was led away: 'We love you Daniell. Be strong.' She bit Senior Constable Kelly Robinson (pictured) on the thigh while three officers tried to arrest her Outside court, WA Police Union president George Tilbury said the case had taken a toll on Snr Const Robinson but she was relieved it was over. 'She can get on with her life, but it has taken a toll, a toll not only on her but also her family and she's glad that it's come to a conclusion,' he said. 'This needs to act as a deterrent to anyone that even considers assaulting a police officer. 'Biting anyone is a disgusting act but to do it to a police officer is unforgivable and there needs to be the appropriate punishment.' Three former executives at a Japanese power operator have been formally charged with negligence over the 2011 accident at the Fukushima nuclear plant. The trio, who worked at Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco), will be the first to go to a criminal court over the disaster. A citizens' judicial review panel ruled last year that Tepco chairman Tsunehisa Katsumata, then-vice-president Sakae Muto and former vice president Ichiro Takekuro should be put on trial. Three former Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco) executives Tsunehisa Katsumata (L), then TEPCO chairman, and two former vice presidents Ichiro Takekuro (C) and Sakae Muto The three former Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco) executives were indicted on Monday for failing to take safety measures to prevent the 2011 Fukushima nuclear disaster The operator of the damaged nuclear plant acknowledged it failed for two months to announce that meltdowns had occurred in the cores of three of the reactors The trio were not taken into custody. 'We were notified from our lawyers that the three were indicted,' a spokeswoman for a campaign group pushing for a trial told AFP. Prosecutors had twice refused to press charges against the men, citing insufficient evidence and little chance of conviction. But the citizens' panel forced prosecutors to press on with the criminal case under Japanese law. It will be the first criminal trial over responsibility for the tsunami-sparked reactor meltdowns that forced tens of thousands from their homes in the world's worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986. Public broadcaster NHK said the three would plead not guilty, arguing it was impossible to predict the size of the massive tsunami that slammed into Japan's northeast coast. Although the March 11 earthquake and tsunami killed 18,500 people, the nuclear disaster it caused is not officially recorded as having directly killed anyone. Japanese media said the charges are linked to the deaths of more than 40 hospitalised patients who were hastily evacuated from the area and later died. Around a dozen others - including TEPCO employees and members of Japan's Self Defense Forces - were injured during the accident. Environmental group Greenpeace said the decision to press on with a criminal case was 'a major step forward'. 'The court proceedings that will now follow should reveal the true extent of TEPCO's and the Japanese regulatory system's enormous failure to protect the people of Japan,' said Hisayo Takada, deputy programme director at the organisation's Japan office. A report by the International Atomic Energy Agency last year said a misguided faith in the complete safety of atomic power was a key factor in the Fukushima accident. Donald Trump this morning is blaming a bad earpiece for why he didn't renounce the support of the Ku Klux Klan's David Duke during an interview yesterday on CNN. 'OK, so let me tell you, I'm sitting in a house in Florida with a very bad earpiece that they gave me and you could hardly hear what he was saying,' Trump explained to Matt Lauer and Savannah Guthrie this morning on the Today show. CNN's Jake Tapper had asked Trump about Duke and the KKK, along with other white supremacists, supporting his candidacy, asking the candidate if he planned to condemn 'these groups and individuals.' 'Just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke, OK?' Trump responded to Tapper. Scroll down for video Donald Trump phoned into the Today show this morning and explained he had a 'very bad earpiece' while doing an interview yesterday on CNN, which is why he didn't disavow KKK leader David Duke's endorsement Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke's (pictured) endorsement of Republican frontrunner Donald Trump has caused the billionaire some trouble 'I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists,' Trump continued. 'So I don't know, I don't know did he endorse me, or what's going on? Because I know nothing about David Duke; I know nothing about white supremacists.' Tapper asking about other 'groups' is where the interview went awry, according to Trump. 'I disavowed David Duke a day before at a major press conference and I'm saying to myself, "How many times do I have to continue to disavow people?"' Trump explained, pointing to a presser in which he appeared with his new surrogate, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, on Friday. 'And the question was asked about David Duke and various groups,' Trump explained. 'And I don't know who the groups are. "Would you do me a favor and tell me who the groups are?"' he said he tried saying to Tapper. 'He was unable to tell me that,' Trump added. Trump said he didn't want to throw groups under the bus if it was undeserved, though Tapper's question seemed to be specifically referring to white supremacist groups. The Republican frontrunner also pointed to his social media presence to back his story up, noting how he had distanced himself from the white supremacist leader on Facebook and Twitter. 'So I disavowed David Duke all weekend long, on Facebook, on Twitter, and it obviously is never enough,' Trump stated. Donald Trump (right), who received an endorsement yesterday from Sen. Jeff Sessions (left) in Alabama, again threatened the Republican party he would leave and take his supporters with him MSNBC's Joe Scarborough, who has been criticized for being too cozy with the Republican frontrunner, suggested that Trump's tepid response on CNN had a motive behind it that Trump hoped to gain some Southern support. 'Its breathtaking. That is disqualifying right there. To say you dont know about the Ku Klux Klan? You dont know about David Duke?' Scarborough, a former Republican congressman from Florida, said the ploy wouldn't win a single Southern vote. 'I mean is he really so stupid that he thinks Southerners arent offended by the Ku Klux Klan and David Duke? Is he really so ignorant of Southern voters that he thinks this is the way to their heart to go neutral, to play Switzerland when youre talking about the Klan?' Scarborough asked this morning on Morning Joe, while Trump was giving his explanation on the Today show. 'And to say he doesnt know enough information about the Klan to condemn them exactly what does Donald Trump expect to learn in the next 24 hours about the Klan,' Scarborough added. On Today, Trump also talked about the state of the race, explaining that he thought rival Sen. Marco Rubio had become 'desperate,' which was why the Florida senator had begun engaging in personal attacks. Since Thursday night's debate performance, in which Rubio came out strongly against Trump, though many political prognosticators suggest was too little, to late, as the billionaire continues to surge nationally, the Florida senator has mocked Trump using similar lines that The Donald has used against him. On Friday, Rubio suggested that Trump had wet his pants during the Houston debate and said the billionaire had a meltdown backstage and was spotted getting makeup put on because he had 'one of those sweat mustaches.' Rubio continued to ruffle Trump's feathers by making a joke Sunday about his rival's 'small hands.' When Lauer suggested that some of this rhetoric wasn't befitting of a future leader of the free world, Trump, in a usual line, said that he wasn't the one responsible. 'Well, I never started this Matt,' Trump said. 'I always believe in answering back,' Trump added. Trump also inserted a dig, mocking Rubio's poll numbers. 'I don't really blame him for doing it,' Trump said of the name-calling. 'Because his other approach wasn't working.' Rubio, upon hearing Trump's ear piece excuse, again attacked the frontrunner today. The Florida senator said that no matter how bad the ear piece was: '"Ku Klux Klan" comes through pretty clearly.' Rubio said that Trump's non-answer to Tapper's question disqualifies him from leading the 'party of Lincoln.' Over the course of the Today interview, Trump also said he would back out of his pledge to support the Republican nominee as more news reports suggest that establishment Republicans are trying to block his path to the nomination. 'If they violate the pledge, I would do something that would make them very unhappy,' Trump said. Advertisement A 'Good Life' primary school where uniforms are banned children learn how to make their own clothes has been rated outstanding by inspectors. The Iona School, in Nottingham, costs 5,400 a year despite having no headteacher, exams or computers. Each day begins with an address from the teachers known as a 'morning birth', while pupils are encouraged to 'say hello' to the day with a song. The 84 pupils learn a range of practical skills, including apple pressing, poetry, knitting, embroidery and woodwork, as well as traditional subjects. Saying 'hello' to the day: The 84 pupils at the Iona School, in Sneinton Dale, Nottingham, spend their days in a range of lessons, including apple pressing, poetry, knitting, embroidery and woodwork. The school costs 5,400 a year despite having no exams or computers Hands-on learning: From left to right, Eleanor McGregor, 10, Greta Moratto Jackson, 10, Amma Dixon, 11, Harrison Hickling, nine, Indy Kiemel Greene, 10, and Joseph Edwards, 10, working on the school allotment. Pupils eat school-grown vegetables in the canteen Teachers have also turned their backs on modern technology and conduct their lessons using blackboards rather than computers - believing screens are 'not good for children'. Even break time is different to mainstream schools. Children are encouraged to build dens and climb trees and are served fruit and vegetables they have grown themselves in the canteen. Pupils also start lessons at the school aged six, a year later than in traditional education. At the root of their ethos is the philosophy of Rudolf Steiner and it is one of 33 schools in the country that follow the Steiner Waldorf curriculum. Now the independent school has been given an 'outstanding' rating by the School Inspection Service, which uses the same framework as Ofsted. Inspector Christine Graham said: 'The quality of teaching and assessment is outstanding. Teaching is inspirational and highly effective. Teachers are very well trained and highly skilled. Creative education: Pupils Mala Malhotra and Joshua Dobson, both aged seven, practicing on their recorders at the Iona School STEINER SHOOLS OFFER AN ALTERNATIVE EDUCATION Steiner schools are inspired by the ideas of Austrian philosopher and playwright Rudolf Steiner (1861-1925) who believed children's creativity, spirituality and morality need as much development as their intellect. 'Education is a journey, not a race' according to Steiner, who aimed to provide 'education for the head, heart and hands' Steiner was personally denounced by Adolf Hitler who called for right-wingers to declare 'war against Steiner' The first school launched by Steiner, in Stuttgart, Germany, was for the offspring of employees at a cigarette factory. The 1,000 Steiner schools worldwide, including the 35 in Britain, encourage informality, and believe there is no hurry to learn to read often waiting until youngsters are aged seven to start Television is strongly discouraged, with many parents of Steiner pupils not even having a TV at home. Critics say Steiner schools are places 'where children do what they like'. Enthusiasts say they are places 'where children like what they do'. Advertisement 'The quality of pupils' spiritual, moral, social and cultural development is outstanding, reflecting the core ethos of Steiner Waldorf education. 'Spiritual values are strongly developed through ceremonies. For example, lighting a candle to greet the day or to focus reflection by groups of children, and through the frequent use of song, stories and verse.' Founded in 1985, the school has 12 teachers and an average of 22 pupils per class. There is no headteacher, instead an Associative Leadership made up of teachers, parents and friends manages the school and an administrator is in charge of the day-to-day running. The Steiner education focuses on lessons in measuring, weighing, farming and house building, as well as handwork sessions in knitting, dyeing, sewing and embroidery. Twice a year the school takes part in three full days working outside known to students as land days, and pupils take part in handwork craft once a week. Founding member and chairman Richard Moore said: 'We don't have a headteacher because we make decisions as a group and we think that this is the best way to run a school - that way everyone is involved in the decision making. 'Also we don't have or use computers at all because screen time is not good for children. We want them to have neat handwriting over using computer keys. 'We are more concerned with developing human relationships and interaction. 'We are not educating children to fit into society but to be human and when a child leaves they are in just as good a place academically if not better than others in mainstream schools. 'Education is about children being connected and being part of the world. 'When pupils start knitting they will have seen a sheep be shorn and will have made their own knitting needles from wood. 'For us the process is more important than the outcome and we want them to feel like they belong in the world. 'We have our own curriculum and each teacher can change what they do for their group, but we do things like German from age five.' 'Outstanding': The school, pictured, has been given the highest rating by the School Inspection Service Ten-year-old Greta Moratto Jackson, from Class 5, which is mainstream Year 6, said: 'When we first come in to school we register and start singing songs and reading poems to say hello to the day. 'It is a really good way to start the day because it wakes you up. We then do our main lesson work and sometimes we go on the land and do jobs and this includes crafts and art and apple pressing.' Pat Fielding, director of education at Nottingham City Council, said: 'Steiner schools offer an alternative curriculum that some parents feel better meets the needs of their children. A Khmer Rouge prisoner recalls the shocking moment he was forced to witness the execution of a woman whose liver was then removed and cooked in front of him, a court heard. Meu Peou gave the harrowing testimony at the genocide hearing of 'Brother Number Two' Nuon Chea, 89, and the former head of state Khieu Samphan, 84. The trial of the top regime leaders focuses on the genocide of ethnic Vietnamese and Muslim minorities including the Cham. An ethnic Muslim former prisoner of the Khmer Rouge regime tells a court that he was forced to witness cannibalism Meu Peou gave the harrowing testimony at the genocide hearing of 'Brother Number Two' Nuon Chea, 89, and the former head of state Khieu Samphan, 84 (pictured) Meu Peou openly wept as he described how he was just a boy when he was detained in western Pursat province accused of betraying the hardline communist cadres by stealing rice. At the detention camp he witnessed a woman being killed, he said, giving the court graphic details of her brutal murder. 'She was asked to take off her clothes and her body was cut open. There was blood everywhere... her liver was taken out and was cooked for a meal,' he recounted, through a court translator. Up to two million Cambodians died under Khmer Rouge rule from 1975-1979, including an estimated 100,000 to 500,000 Cham Muslims and 20,000 Vietnamese. Until this trial, the treatment of the two minority groups has rarely been discussed. Meu Peou said he lost 17 relatives during the murderous rule of the hardline regime, including his father who starved to death after he refused to eat pork. 'I had to force myself to eat pork so I could survive,' Meu Peou said, adding Muslims were often forcibly dispersed from their villages. Cambodian dancers in Phnom Penh on January 7, 2016 to mark the 37th anniversary of the fall of the Khmer Rouge regime Skulls and bone fragments of victims of the 1975-79 Khmer Rouge regime at the Champuk Kaek pagoda in Kandal province, south of Phnom Penh in 1997 Nuon Chea and Khieu Samphan have already been handed life sentences in a previous trial that focused on the regime's forced evacuation of Phnom Penh into rural labour camps and murders at an execution site. Cannibalism by Khmer Rouge soldiers has previously been described by other witnesses who testified at the court, including of cadres eating the gall bladders of executed prisoners after drying them in the sun. While cannibalism was not widespread, the regime's leadership encouraged a searing hatred among its footsoldiers of those seen to be class enemies that led at times to particularly sadistic violence. Historians have offered different reasons for cannibalism, from the general climate of excessive regime violence, to superstitious beliefs about acquiring an enemy's power through the consumption of their organs to hunger and desperation within the Khmer Rouge's ranks. The Khmer Rouge regime dismantled modern society in Cambodia in their quest for an agrarian Marxist utopia. Many key leaders have died without facing justice, including 'Brother Number One' Pol Pot who died in 1998. A woman who left her starving dogs in a squalor house filled with piles of rubbish and faeces has been banned from owning pets for 10 years. Four dogs and a cat were rescued from a Canberra property by RSPCA inspectors in April 2014 after they were left in such shocking living conditions, Canberra Times reported. Owner Leanne McLeish, 38, broke down as she was sentenced in the ACT Magistrates Court on Monday for neglecting her pets at the property. A doberman - dubbed 'grey ghost' - was found underweight with its spine, ribs and leg bones clearly visible The dogs were discovered in a severely 'emaciated' state after the owner was away in Queensland RSPCA chief executive Tammy Ven Dange said one of the dobermans - dubbed 'grey ghost' - was found extremely underweight with its spine, ribs and leg bones clearly visible. 'That doberman sticks with me because it was just so bad,' Ms Ven Dange said, adding she took the disturbing photographs when the animals arrived at RSCPA. 'I don't know how she was still standing. She really was just a grey ghost.' The dog, which was discovered in a severely 'emaciated' state, had suffered an infected ulcer, a mite infestation and hair loss. The second dog was underweight, suffered hair loss and a flea infestation while a third sustained a bacterial infection in its ear. The dogs were rescued in 2014 after they were left in a squalor house filled with piles of rubbish and faeces Owner Leanne McLeish, 38, broke down as she was sentenced in the ACT Magistrates Court on Monday A Pomeranian was said to be found starving in a filthy locked-up room and had sustained hair loss, fleas and overgrown nails. The pets were removed from the property upon inspection and have seen been recovered and rehomed following a public tip-off. Magistrate Bernadette Boss heard McLeish had told RSCPA inspectors she was away in Queensland when the animals were left alone at the property. McLeish claims she was too embarrassed to seek help because of the state of her home. However, she apologised to court before her sentence, claiming she loved her pets and had never intended to 'put them through pain'. The bunker where President John F. Kennedy would have been whisked if World War III erupted while he vacationed in Florida may face a bigger threat than Soviet missiles ever posed: a battle between its operators and the Port of Palm Beach. The once top-secret fallout shelter, code name 'Hotel,' and the retired Coast Guard station on Peanut Island are now a tourist attraction and the focal point of a long-running legal war between the port, which owns the island, and Palm Beach Maritime Museum, which leases the attraction. Anthony Miller, who operates the site for the museum, said the port's commission and Palm Beach County have blocked attempts to make the attraction financially stable. Scroll down for video John F Kennedy's bunker was built on man made Peanut Island (above) in 1961 as a hide out in case World War III erupted While it wouldn't have survived a direct or nearby hit, it would have provided protection from fallout blown in from elsewhere Fit for a President: A replica Kennedy's desk - presented as it would have been - is also surrounded by memorabilia Many historical features remain as they were, including that famous red telephone (left), which was the Moscow-Washington hotline designed to ease growing tensions He said the commission thwarted a $500,000 grant last year. The county limited the number of weddings that can be performed at the picturesque Coast Guard boat house to three per year, down from 30, and banned the construction of a restaurant. The site's $200,000 annual maintenance budget is barely covered by admissions and donations, he said. The maritime museum's lease ($100 a year, plus 4 per cent of gross sales) ends next year. He says the port wants to tear down the facility, citing communications he says the museum has had with the commission. 'They have been trying to kick us off for 20 years by starving us of money,' Miller said. Greg Picken, the port commission's lawyer, said the port has no intention of razing the bunker or Coast Guard buildings, but hopes to find a better caretaker when the museum's lease expires. The station made the island the perfect site in 1961 to build a bunker for the newly inaugurated Kennedy (above), whose wealthy family's Palm Beach compound was a 10-minute ride away The bunker was big enough to fit 30 of Kennedy's family and closest aides and military advisers It would be possible for them to live there for up to a month beneath a 12-foot ceiling, two metal roofs sandwiching 18 inches of cement and 12 feet of dirt He said the museum's board is in disarray, citing lawsuits members have filed against each other. He said the $500,000 would have been 'a drop in the bucket' compared to the millions in repairs he says the site needs and the museum has failed to make. To visit the bunker, about 200 tourists a week take a short boat ride to man-made Peanut Island, named for an aborted attempt to use it to ship peanut oil almost a century ago. In the 1930s, the Coast Guard station was built. Soon, its Coast Guardsmen would protect American cargo ships from German U-boats off Florida during World War II. The station made the island the perfect site in 1961 to build a bunker for the newly inaugurated Kennedy, whose wealthy family's Palm Beach compound was a 10-minute ride away. This tunnel is where entrants would have checked themselves with Geiger counters and, if radioactive, stripped and showered before entering the main room If the entrants were found to be radioactive, fresh clothes, if needed, would have been slipped through a slot in the final door. Nervous system: These wirelesses would have been the communication center and Kennedy's connection to the outside world Built in 10 days by Navy Seabees, the Spartan, 1,600-square-foot bunker the size of a small U.S. home could have been the nerve center for U.S. and NATO forces if Soviet nuclear weapons had incinerated Washington and New York. While it wouldn't have survived a direct or nearby hit, it would have provided protection from fallout blown in from elsewhere. Miller leads visitors down a path to the bunker, lifting a lever that opens the sealed steel door with a creak and thudding echo. A 40-foot tunnel slopes down to a second door where entrants would have checked themselves with Geiger counters and, if radioactive, stripped and showered. Fresh clothes, if needed, would have been slipped through a slot in the final door. It opens to the single room where Kennedy and 30 members of his family, aides and military advisers would have lived for up to a month beneath a 12-foot ceiling, two metal roofs sandwiching 18 inches of cement and 12 feet of dirt. 'The goal was survival, not luxury,' operations manager Danny Miller said. Pictured: The dock and U.S. Coast Guard boat house Pictured: Various touches have been added since the bunker became a museum Open to the public since 1998, the room is now part re-creation, part Kennedy museum. The cement floor is dominated by a painting of the presidential seal, just like 1962. Two of the 15 metal bunk beds that would have lined the walls, the barrels that would have served as toilets and a display of military rations give a taste of what life would have been like. Miller said Kennedy visited the site a few times as part of drills. 'The goal was survival, not luxury,' Miller said. In one corner sits a replica of the wooden desk where Kennedy would have worked. A globe, ash tray and three phones, two black and one red, rest atop it. The desk is flanked by U.S. and presidential flags. Next to the presidential flag is a rocking chair that Kennedy needed for his famously balky back. In another corner sits a ham radio, from where coded messages would have been dispatched to military commanders worldwide. But there are also items that wouldn't have been there -- photos of Kennedy, a mushroom cloud and fallout bunkers near Washington and Moscow. Copies of newspapers from the days following Kennedy's 1963 assassination. And the three cats who patrol the island and bunker -- Jack, Jackie and, slyly, Marilyn. Employment Minister Priti Patel claimed today the rules on ministers were 'unconstitutional' Britain's top civil servant was accused of undermining the constitution in the Government's battle to keep Britain in the EU today. Employment Minister Priti Patel blasted the rules set out by Sir Jeremy Heywood, the cabinet secretary, on what civil service papers and resources she and other Brexit backers were allowed to see. Under the rules set out by Sir Jeremy when the campaign formally started last week, Brexit supporters are allowed access to anything they have seen already and anything not specifically related to the referendum. But the rules ban them from receiving certain documents - raising the prospect the Cabinet ministers are held responsible for things they have deliberately not been told about by officials. All Cabinet ministers are ultimately responsible to Parliament for their department - even if they were not personally aware of a problem. But because officials could be banned from briefing a minister Ms Patel said the ruling was 'unconstitutional' and a Government minister has been hauled to the Commons to explain the rules to MPs later today. Five members of the full Cabinet defected to the Vote Leave camp within minutes of Mr Cameron launching the referendum and suspending the normal rules of 'collective responsibility'. They include Work and Pensions Secretary Iain Duncan Smith who, in the event of a Remain vote, would be responsible for introducing key parts of Mr Cameron's deal with the EU. Justice Secretary Michael Gove and Commons leader Chris Grayling might have to plan for the new 'red card' system for rejecting new EU laws. But the ruling suggests none of them have access to relevant civil service resources until after the June 23 poll. Ms Patel said: 'It is important that the civil service maintains impartiality during the EU referendum. Jeremy Heywood's unconstitutional act threatens the reputation of the civil service. 'Secretaries of State are responsible for their departments. For an unelected official to prevent them being aware of the information they need for their duties is wrong.' London Mayor Boris Johnson, who is not a minister and does not receive civil service papers, today said: 'What the public wants to see what I want to see is total transparency and all information should be laid before the public. This is for the people to decide, this is for everybody to make up their minds about and let's have total candour and transparency. 'This is only going to be a few months, but this is a once in a lifetime chance for us to get it right. The EU has changed out of all recognition, I think it's going in the wrong direction for Britain, for the UK now's the time to make a change.' The Prime Minister's official spokeswoman today said there had been no formal complaints made and the system set out had been clear since Mr Cameron had decided to allow his ministers to take a personal view on the referendum. Cabinet Secretary Sir Jeremy Heywood, pictured, drew up the rules after the PM suspended collective responsibility She said: 'The guidance is clear. There have been no complaints to the Cabinet Secretary.' The spokeswoman insisted there was no 'outright ban' on ministers receiving EU related paper and she said the 'day to day' business within the EU would continue. Asked if Mr Duncan Smith would be allowed to set civil servants to work on creating policy to implement the welfare reforms contained in Mr Cameron's deal, the spokeswoman insisted it was an issue for after the referendum. She said: 'The choice the British people need to make first is whether we are going to remain in a reformed European Union.' She added: 'The focus of the government's work at the moment is on the referendum and whether or not the UK remains or leaves. The issue around the welfare brake - the (European) commission themselves have been clear that this is a question for after the referendum.' She said the guidance had been created to help civil servants think through the relevant issues and not to resolve case by case examples. And the spokeswoman said the public would expect the Government to do its job serving the Government of the day. In the Commons, Cabinet Office Minister Matt Hancock defended the policy. He said: 'All ministers can ask for factual briefing and for facts to be checked in any matter. 'All ministers can see documents on EU issues not related to the referendum question, as normal. 'So the guidance is clear, it's published and the process was agreed at Cabinet as the best way to manage the unusual situation of ministers who disagree with the Government remaining in post.' Bernard Jenkin, the chairman of the Public Administration and Constitutional Affairs Committee, highlighted the anger felt by some Tory MPs who believe the decision could be unconstitutional. He said: 'How does this situation best serve the democratic process if ministers on opposing sides of the debate finish up disagreeing about information from the same Government department which is meant to be impartial and accurate information provided by professional civil servants?' Mr Hancock said the Government is functioning 'perfectly well' under the arrangements as he stressed the civil service code makes it clear that the 'duty' of civil servants is to 'support the position of the government of the day'. The row exploded amid the publication of an official Government review which warned the country would suffer a decade of turmoil after a Brexit vote as it negotiated new trading relationships with the EU. Boris Johnson today blasted the 'project fear' agenda promoted by the Government while Mr Grayling insisted there was 'no evidence' behind the new report. Matthew Hancock, the Cabinet Office minister, has claimed the report was a cautious assessment of the implication of Britain quitting the EU. The review warns car manufacturing, farming, financial services and millions of British expats in Europe would all be hit by a Brexit. The Cabinet Office review, which emerged in the Guardian today, said the two year exit outlined in the EU treaties was unlikely. The civil servant-authored report said: 'A vote to leave the EU would be the start, not the end, of a process. It could lead to up to a decade or more of uncertainty.' Legally, the process to leave the EU requires the Prime Minister to trigger 'article 50' of the treaties which formally begins a two-year programme of negotiations. And Mr Hancock defended his department's work today as a 'cautious assessment'. He told the BBC: 'It will take two years in which we go through the first part of this, which is renegotiating our relationship with EU countries.' But Mr Grayling dismissed the report. He said: 'Why on earth would we think it would take quite as long as the Second World War to be able to sort out our trading relationships with Europe and elsewhere? 'What possible evidence is there that it would take 10 years to sort out our trading arrangements?' How will your MP vote? Full list of all the Conservative politicians who have declared their stand on the EU referendum debate The Voice UK contestant Faheem Ashraf suffered a broken leg in a 'disturbance' at a nightclub just hours after millions watched him make it to the next round of the BBC show. The 22-year-old required surgery to his smashed right leg which is now in a cast, following the incident at Circle in his home city Bradford, West Yorkshire. On Saturday night viewers saw him beat Londoner Aaron Hill in a pre-recorded head-to-head vocal duel on The Voice UK, which includes Will.I.Am and Paloma Faith as judges. Scroll down for video Before and after: The Voice UK contestant Faheem Ashraf (left) suffered a broken leg (right) in a 'disturbance' at a nightclub just hours after millions watched him make it to the next round of the BBC show Pictured is Faheem Ashraf performing on The Voice UK, which aired on Saturday night On Saturday night viewers saw him beat Londoner Aaron Hill in a pre-recorded head-to-head vocal duel on The Voice UK, which includes Will.I.Am (left) and Paloma Faith (right) as judges After the showed aired on BBC, he posted a picture of himself on Facebook, dressed in a white shirt and grey waistcoat and trousers for his sister's engagement party. He said: 'I'm now at my sister's engagement party, I WON I WON I WON!!!! 'Heading to Circle in Bradford to celebrate some more. If you see me make sure you come say Hi!' Yesterday afternoon he revealed on the social media site that he had broken his leg. Along with a picture of his right leg in a cast, while he was in a hospital bed, he wrote: 'So last night I was invited to Circle as VIP. 'Now I'm in hospital and just come out of surgery, with pins and screws in my leg and out of action for a couple of months.' Speaking from his hospital bed at Bradford Royal Infirmary soon after surgery, he said: 'I've just come out of surgery and don't really want to say anything as I will be talking to the police. 'Nobody knows anything about this yet, not even my agent. It's just happened at the the worst time in the world for me. 'I was so happy winning, then I'm in surgery.' Club: A West Yorkshire Police spokesman confirmed the incident was being investigated: 'At 10.25am a report was received of a disturbance which occurred around 3.15am that morning at the Circle nightclub' A West Yorkshire Police spokesman confirmed the incident was being investigated: 'At 10.25am a report was received of a disturbance which occurred around 3.15am that morning at the Circle nightclub, Great Horton Road, Bradford. 'One of the people involved has received treatment at Bradford Royal Infirmary for non life-threatening injuries. 'Inquiries are ongoing.' Super Tuesday is the biggest day of competition in American democracy except for Election Day itself. So will it set everything straight in the chaotic presidential race? Maybe. Quite possibly not. The only thing that seems certain is that it will be a banner day for billionaire Donald Trump with victories in eight or more of the 11 states where Republicans will hold primaries or caucuses. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz should hold on in his home state and one other. Florida Sen. Marco Rubio might might win a contest. Ohio Gov. John Kasich and retired surgeon Ben Carson aren't expected to take home any medals at all, but they could collect handfuls of delegates in states that don't set a minimum voting threshold. Scroll down for video ROCKY TOP: Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump drew thousands to a Tennessee airport hangar for a rally on Saturday CARRY ME BACK: Trump stumped Monday at Radford University in southern Virginia HIGH STAKES: Five GOP candidates will spar over 595 Republican National Convention delegates on March 1. Here's how they're distributed according to population It's those delegates who will cast votes during the GOP's July convention in Cleveland, Ohio, determining who the party's nominee will be in November. Five men are still in the Republican race, but all the talk is about front-runner Donald Trump. The New Yorker is driving toward the nomination and his rivals are trying to stop him with everything they have. Tuesday will answer whether Marco Rubio's debate-night transformation last week from bland RubioBot to Marco Rambo will continue. The fight that the Republican establishment long wanted has been engaged. Whether it's too late to stop the outsider billionaire is the question. Rubio backer Trey Gowdy, Chairman of the House Benghazi Committee, acknowledged his candidate's gloomy odds tomorrow in an interview with DailyMail.com this afternoon. 'I cannot contradict the polling, which has Trump winning the majority of the states,' he said. He suggested that Rubio intends to stay in the race until March 15, when the senator's home state votes, Florida, either way. Similar suspense, with fewer insults, animates the Democratic race. Hillary Clinton, the establishment pick, scored a weekend blowout in South Carolina on Saturday. She looks strong in many Super Tuesday states. A surprise could reinvigorate Bernie Sanders, her socialist-populist rival who has tapped deep political passions but needs more victories, and soon. Voters will come to polling places with a host of issues on their minds, including immigration policy, the U.S. debt, the uneven spread of wealth and hard questions about how to approach the Islamic State group, terrorism and civil liberties. The fate of fundamental social policy is also up for grabs as the Supreme Court stands ideologically divided. A vacancy may not be filled until after the next president takes office in January. Trump's agenda lacks detail on most fronts. But there's little doubt about his approach on several major issues. He would try to push trading partners and others into doing his will. He wants to somehow carry out mass deportations of people in the country illegally, and temporarily ban non-U.S. citizen Muslims from coming into the country. STATE BY STATE: What's at stake for Republicans on Super Tuesday? Alabama primary 50 delegates Latest poll: Trump 42, Rubio 19, Cruz 16, Carson 11, Kasich 5 Trump could romp through Alabama if no one else reaches the minimum 20 per cent threshold needed to claim 'at-large' delegates. The other 24 are awarded based on district-by-district results, but Rubio and Cruz would have to overcome a massive disadvantage to avoid repeating their goose-eggs in South Carolina. Right-wing Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions endorsed Trump on Sunday. that will hold more weight than the more moderate governor Robert Bentley's endorsement of Kasich. Cruz has all but ceded the state, pulling out of a presidential candidate forum on Saturday and putting his resources elsewhere. Alaska caucuses 28 delegates Latest poll: Trump 28, Cruz 24, Carson 9, Rubio 7, Kasich 2 No one knows how Alaska's caucuses will shake out because the state is so sparsely populated that it's not cost-efficient to do much polling. The only candidate who has given Alaska any thought at all is Trump, who won the early endorsement of the state's popular former governor Sarah Palin. Arkansas primary 40 delegates Latest poll: Cruz 27, Trump 23, Rubio 23, Carson 11, Kasich 4 Arkansas could be one of only two bright spots for Ted Cruz, who has led there for months. But Trump drew crowds of thousands there recently, and made news by hiring the daughter of former governor Mike Huckabee last week. Rubio won the endorsement of Gov. Asa Hutchinson. Georgia primary 76 delegates Latest poll: Trump 30, Rubio 23, Cruz 23, Carson 9, Kasich 9 Like in South Carolina and Alabama, Georgia contenders much collect 20 per cent of the vote in order to claim any of the 31 'at-large' delegates. One poll released last week showed Trump running away with the race at 45 per cent, with no one else reaching the threshold. Massachusetts primary 42 delegates Latest poll: Trump 47, Rubio 15, Kasich 11, Cruz 15, Carson 2 This should be a laugh-riot for Trump despite Kasich's hope to perform well in the liberal enclave. A groundswell of blue-collar independent voters and so-called 'Reagan Democrats' is expected to support Trump on Tuesday something the Democratic Party will ponder as November's general election approaches. Everyone except Carson stands to win delegates here, with the threshold set at just 5 per cent of the vote. Trump drew more than 10,000 people to a January rally in the town of Lowell. Minnesota caucuses 38 delegates Latest poll: Rubio 23, Cruz 21, Trump 18, Carson 11, Bush 7, Kasich 2 If Rubio wins anywhere on Tuesday, it will be here in the only midwestern state to participate in the March 1 carnival. The three leaders will likely run close together as they did in Iowa. Trump has only recently put people on the ground to organize in Minnesota, and Rubio attracted more than 2,000 people there last week. Oklahoma primary 43 delegates Latest poll: Trump 35, Cruz 23, Rubio 22, Carson 7, Kasich 8 Oklahoma will be the first state to host a completely 'closed' GOP primary, meaning that voters who want to cast ballots were required to register as Republicans by February 5. Crossover Democrats and independents aren't welcome. That could make the gold medal in Oklahoma the subject of some bragging rights after Tuesday. Tennessee primary 58 delegates Latest poll: Trump 40, Cruz 22, Rubio 19, Carson 9, Kasich 6 Tennessee is another 'threshold' state, reserving its 31 at-large delegates for candidates who poll at 20 per cent and above. Rubio made Tennessee his first stop after the South Carolina primary, but Trump has likely built a substantial lead already in early voting, which has already seen more than 250,000 ballots cast. Rubio may regret the endorsement from Gov. Bill Haslam, who generated anger from conservatives in 2014 when he tried unsuccessfully to expand Medicaid programs under the Obamacare law. Texas primary 155 delegates Latest poll: Cruz 39, Trump 26, Rubio 16, Kasich 6, Carson 8 Cruz must win his home state in order to remain a viable presidential candidate. No ifs, ands or buts. And Texas is the single biggest prize of Super Tuesday, with more than a quarter of the delegates that will be awarded. Texas could also hurt Rubio substantially if he misses out on the 20 per cent threshold for any of the 44 at-large delegates. the other 111 are awarded at the district level, but only the first- and second-place district finishers claim any prizes at all. So the result could see Cruz winning narrowly at the state level but splitting the delegates nearly evenly with Trump. Vermont primary 16 delegates Latest poll: Trump 32, Rubio 17, Cruz 11, Kasich 10, Carson 3 Trump is the only Republican to pay significant attention to Democrat Bernie Sanders' home state, with a January rally in Burlington. The state should be a natural home for Kasich's moderate sensibilities, but conservatives there could be searching for as strong an antidote for Sanders as possible. A 20 per cent threshold for all Vermont's delegates means Trump could walk away with the entire jackpot. Virginia primary 49 delegates Latest poll: Trump 40, Rubio 27, Cruz 22, Kasich 6, Carson 4 The Old Dominion is a likely place for everyone to walk away with something, since there's no delegate threshold. Everyone except Carson will have made a Virginia sto pin the week before Super Tuesday, but Trump is looking impossible to beat. Wyoming convention 29 delegates No polling Key factors: Wyoming's state Republican convention is a non-event. The state party sends its delegates to the Republican National Convention 'unbound,' meaning they can vote their conscience. If the first ballot at the RNC in July is a nail-biter, Wyoming's delegates could become kingmakers. But for now they're afterthoughts. Advertisement COWBOY BOOTS: Ted Cruz campaigned Saturday in Atlanta, Georgia Democrats have a choice between liberal pragmatism and liberal ambition. Sanders is proposing free college and a breakup of big banks as part of an agenda centered on shrinking the gap between rich and poor. That would come at the cost of higher taxes and what a lot of economists say would be higher national debt. Clinton says Sanders' goals are politically impossible and she would follow an achievable path. Until now, voters in four states have picked the only delegates and just a few of them who are needed to clinch the party nominations. That changes overnight, with each party holding contests in 11 states on Tuesday. Democrats also vote in American Samoa. Republicans will allocate 595 delegates from the results of Super Tuesday, nearly half of the 1,237 needed for the nomination. Democrats will allocate 865, more than one-third of the necessary 2,383. The scoreboard shows 3-1 leads for Trump and Clinton. Trump won New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada. Clinton won Iowa, Nevada and South Carolina. Republican Ted Cruz won Iowa. Sanders won New Hampshire. CHALLENGING IN RAZORBACK COUNTRY: Trump rallied Saturday in Arkansas in a bid to catch Ted Cruz there SELFIES WITH A ROBOT? Marco Rubio (right) campaigned Monday in Knoxville, Tennessee DEEP SOUTH: Rubio hit Kennesaw, Georgia on Saturday and hit Trump with caustic one-liners BITTERLY CLINGING: Ted Cruz simply must win the primary election in his home state of Texas in order to remain a viable candidate for the White House In the Republican delegate race, it's 82 for Trump, 17 for Cruz, 16 for Rubio, 6 for John Kasich and 4 for Ben Carson. But that will change in a heartbeat. In the Democratic race, factoring in the hundreds of superdelegates, or party insiders who can support a candidate of their choice, Clinton leads with 544 delegates, according to AP's count, while Sanders has 85. As enormous as the prize is on Tuesday, no one candidate can win his or her party's nomination that day. Delegates will be divided up according to how well each contender does. That's an oversimplification of an arcane process, but the bottom line is that a strong second place in a particular state can be worth almost as many delegates as a victory. A series of winner-take-all Republican primaries is coming, none bigger than Florida on March 15, where 99 delegates are at stake and Rubio will be fighting for a home-state victory against Trump, a part-time resident. Both parties are holding contests Tuesday in these states: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont and Virginia. Republicans also vote in Alaska and Democrats in Colorado. Democrats also have a contest in American Samoa. According to Monmouth University polling of Arkansas and Oklahoma this afternoon, Trump will win both states by double digits. He's at 42 percent in Alabama and 35 percent in Oklahoma. If he makes it past 50 percent in either, he'll take all of the delegates in those states. Otherwise, delegates will be awarded proportionately to candidates who get above 20 percent and 15 percent, respectively. Syrian government and rebel forces have both been accused of breaching the fragile ceasefire as dramatic pictures reveal how ISIS suffered heavy losses in a failed bid to retake a strategic border town. Activists claim Russia launched more than a dozen airstrikes on behalf on the Assad regime on districts in Aleppo and in the surrounding countryside on Saturday and Sunday the first two days of the United Nations brokered truce. Meanwhile Russia has complained about what it has described as a cross-border attack from Turkey into territory close to the strategic Syrian town of Tal Abyad. Scroll down for video Destroyed: Syrian government, Russia, the US and rebel forces have all been accused of breaching the fragile ceasefire Broken: The ceasefire began on Saturday at 00.01, but did not include strikes against ISIS or Jabhat al-Nusra Turkey has been accused of allowing 100 rebel fighters to cross the border and fight Kurdish rebels in the formerly ISIS-held town of Tal Abyad. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said today that the cessation of hostilities in Syria has been holding up 'by and large' and wants it extended beyond the initial planned duration of two weeks. Activists have told MailOnline about a fierce battle between Kurdish forces and ISIS fighters in which dozens of fanatics died in a failed mission to retake the town, a vital crossing point into town. The US military has confirmed it had targeted ISIS targets in Syria on Saturday, including ten air strikes near Tal Abyad, the BBC reported. However despite the breaches experts have hailed the success of the ceasefire which has halted all but a few isolated incidents. There have been a number of violations but the ceasefire [in Syria] in general is holding which is quite surprising, Michael Stephens, Research Fellow for Middle East Studies, and head of the Royal United Service Institutes Qatar bureau, told MailOnline. The US said it conducted airstrikes against ISIS in Syria on Saturday, near the border town of Tal Abyad (pictured above) Targets: Syrian activists have told the BBC that the Russian airstrikes north of Aleppo were targeting Nusra Front fighters, who are allied to Al Qaeda, but civilians on the ground in two villages denied the presence of the group Aftermath: Civilians in Aleppo countryside said this was the aftermath of Syrian government bombing on Saturday - in breach of the ceasefire There were always going to be violations. No one expected a total cessation of hostilities. If 90 per cent of fighting has stopped, that can be seen as a success. Film footage allegedly showing Russian aircraft dropping bombs on a village in Aleppo province on Saturday the first day of the ceasefire has been posted by anti-government activists. Syrian activists have told the BBC that the Russian airstrikes north of Aleppo were targeting Nusra Front fighters, who are allied to Al Qaeda. The truce which began at 0001 on Saturday involves Syrian government and moderate rebel forces. But it does not include military action against ISIS or the Nusra Front, so an attack on either fanatical group does not count as a breach of the ceasefire. However in a video posted by activists online, men and women speak directly to the camera from among the carnage in footage published by Step news agency. 'Yesterday morning on the 27th February a warplane targeted the house. There is no army here - no soldiers. We're civilians here. This was my house,' one man says in Arabic, as he gestures to the shattered remains behind him. A second young man, gestures off camera and says planes bombed another house. 'Thank god nobody was injured. There were just civilians here, no Free Syrian Army,' he says, referring to the umbrella term for the rebels. In a separate alleged attack on the village of Daret Ezzeh in the western countryside of Aleppo, CNN Arabic and Aleppo Media Council and reported destruction caused by attacks on Sunday morning. Rubble: Experts say the violations were expected, but the ceasefire is holding for the most part 'There were warplanes and now everything is destroyed. We're not Jabhat Al-Nusra. We're not ISIS - they haven't been here for months? Where are we supposed to go?', an unnamed man again asks the camera in footage published by Aleppo Media Council. Abu Bassem, 50, a teacher from Aleppo City told MailOnline that skies had been quiet over the past two days, but that they can still hear sporadic gunfire as forces clash nearby with heavy machine guns. However the village targeted by Russia also contain fighters from the western-backed moderate opposition, according to the BBC. The High Negotiations Committee (HNC) which represents almost 100 anti-government armed rebel groups, say the ISIS and Al Nusra were not operating in the areas hit by the Russia airstrikes. Peace talks aimed at ending the devastating five-year civil war will resume on 7 March if the truce largely holds UN special envoy for Syria has announced. Heavy clashes openly continued between ISIS and Kurdish forces who fought off an attack on the border town of Tal Abyad. ISIS launched the offensive on the Kurdish-held city at around 11pm on Saturday night, according to residents of the Syrian border town. One resident, farmer Abu Aram, said he was woken by the sound of gun-fire and was forced to flee with his family as the battle against ISIS fighters came closer to their home. Speaking to MailOnline via social media the 35-year-old farmer said: We were surprised when the YPG [Kurdish militia] fighters told us we should escape because ISIS were coming. We were sleeping in our house when I heard bombing and shooting. I went to the window and I found there were Kurdish fighters in the street telling people to escape. They told me to escape too. I went to my childrens room and carried them out. I told my wife to prepare a small bag for us and we left at around 3.30 in the morning. Now me and my family are staying at my brothers house in a village which is still under YPG [Kurdish militia] control. Abu Aram added: I am following the developments from my neighbours who are still there. There are battles all around. But I hope I can go back to my house and my farm. He also helped imprisoned POWs and inspired the film The Great Escape As a pilot, Mr Stevens Snr bombed Berlin for the RAF in the early 1940s He has now discovered his father was a Jew and fled before its outbreak A man who decided to research his late British father's RAF wartime past was stunned to discover that he was actually a German Jew whose battles against the Nazis inspired the film The Great Escape. Marc Stevens was just 22 when his hero dad Peter passed away in 1979 having emigrated to Canada in the 1950s. All Mr Stevens knew of his father, who spoke with a perfect English accent, was that he had been born Georg Franz Hein, in Hanover, Germany, to Christian parents. Peter Stevens, pictured in 1946, was a German Jew who fled to Britain before the war then went on to serve his adopted country with such distinction he was awarded the Military Cross Mr Stevens pictured in the months after the war at the controls of an Avro Anson executive transport plane He later emigrated out to Canada where he married and had a son Marc. However, he kept his incredible past hidden from his family Peter Stevens, who spoke with a British accents, is pictured with his children. While alive he never revealed to them that he was actually a German Jew He also knew his dad had gone to England at the outbreak of war to join the RAF as a bomber pilot to fight the Nazis and that later he had served in MI6. Before joining the RAF and piloting a Hampden twin engine bomber with a crew of four, Peter had stopped using his German name and adopted that of a friend in England who had passed away. Peter had married Mr Stevens' mother - a French-Canadian Catholic - and passed himself off in later life as an Englishman once he moved to Canada in 1952. But after his death Mr Stevens was fascinated to discover why his dad was one of just 69 members of the RAF to be awarded Britain's Military Cross for valour in the Second World War. His father also later worked for MI6 - a fact kept within the family until after his death, when it was corroborated by his former colleagues. Like his determined father Mr Stevens stopped at nothing getting secret files opened early, testimonies and debriefs from his dad's own war record to find out more The ripples of that light shone on Peter's past have even changed his ethnicity and inspired him to publish the book 'Escape, Evasion and Revenge'. Mr Stevens, from Toronto, Canada, said: 'Dad spoke with a highly-cultured British accent, and passed himself off as an Englishman. 'The fact that he had served as an RAF bomber pilot only helped to reinforce that cover story. What I didn't know, and only discovered in 1996, was that my father had been born Jewish. 'It all began with a lot of letter writing. Initially to an author of POW escape books in England. 'He was the first to tell me that my father was actually Jewish, but I thought he was dead wrong about that. Mr Stevens' prisoner ID card (pictured) shows his nationality was recorded as English Mr Stevens served the RAF and his fellow prisoners of war with such distinction he was awarded a swathe of medals - including the Military Cross (centre) 'More letters were written to the RAF Personnel Department in England, hoping to be put in contact with any surviving members of Dad's bomber crew. 'Incredibly, I was able to contact, and later meet, two of Dad's crew whose lives he saved with his sang-froid flying skills. Numerous visits to Britain's National Archives eventually paid off. 'Using my father's RAF Pilot Logbook as a starting point, I discovered debriefs for each of Dad's 22 combat missions. 'In 1996, I finally tracked down and contacted my late father's little sister, who finally confirmed the rumours that my father was actually a Jew.' As Mr Stevens' research continued the more he unearthed about his dad's wartime exploits including a stint at the infamous Stalag Luft 3 prisoner of war camp. He said: 'Dad became one of only two Allied prisoners authorised by the Escape Committee to trade with the Germans at the massive Stalag Luft 3, home of The Great Escape. 'Fans of the movie will recognise the James Garner character as "The Scrounger", a job partly filled by my father. 'In fact, dad is named in the official history of Stalag Luft 3 as the Head of Contacts for the 'X' Organization in East compound of that massive POW camp.' Mr Stevens' exploits in the notorious Stalag Luft 3 camp were the inspiration for the character Flight Lt Bob Anthony 'The Scrounger' Hendley in The Great Escape The 1963 film detailed the larger-than-life escape attempt carried out by inmates of the POW camp. Pictured far left is James Garner, who played a character based on Mr Stevens Mr Stevens ID papers from the notorious Stalag Luft 3 prisoner of war camp details how he was a pilot for the RAF who was found hiding near Amsterdam A second page of the ID card has almost nothing written on it, except a possible note that he speaks German Pictured are two caricatures of Peter Stevens drawn by his prisoner of war roommate Tom Slack Peter had ended up in the camp after being captured after an attack on Berlin on September 7, 1941. Mr Stevens said: 'Dad and his new crew were ordered to bomb Berlin, the capital of Nazi Germany and the target with the best defences in Europe. 'They made it to Berlin and dropped their bombs, but the aircraft was damaged by anti-aircraft artillery over the target, and Dad ordered his crew to bail out. 'Both gunners did, and it was later determined that one's parachute had failed to open. Sadly, his body was never found. That man, Sgt. Ivor Roderick Fraser, was just 19 years old. 'Through the internet, after 20 years of searching, I was able to meet Fraser's niece in 2013, and to convey in person my father's deep regret and profound sense of guilt over his death. 'After his crew bailed out, Dad realised that his plane was marginally flyable, and the navigator stayed with him as he turned back to England. 'But there was a hole in each of the main fuel tanks, and they ran out of fuel and crash-landed near Amsterdam. Mr Stevens (pictured far right) with a group of fellow soldiers during the Second World War 'Captured a day later, Dad and his navigator were eventually sent to separate prisoner of war camps. 'Of course, it was critical that the Germans never realise his true identity, as they would have legally been able to execute him as a traitor to Germany. 'For the next three years and eight months, he was without any protection whatsoever under the Geneva Convention. 'Dad made escape his first priority, and he had a massive advantage. He was, after all, a native German. 'The month after his capture, in October 1941, he was transferred with hundreds of other British POW's between two camps in northern Germany, locked in a cattle car with two armed Nazi guards. 'Using other prisoners to arrange a distraction, Dad and a Canadian pilot jumped off the moving train through a ventilator shaft. 'Unfortunately, another prisoner had done the same thing, and was noticed by the guards. Looking out, they saw dad and his friend running for some nearby woods, and started shooting. Sgt. Ivor Roderick Fraser (left), was just 19 years old, when he died evacuating the plane piloted by Mr Stevens during a bombing run over Germany. Mr Stevens exploits have now been written into a book (right) 'With bullets whizzing by their ears like bumble bees, they were able to make it to the forest before the guards perfected their aim. 'The area was searched, but the Germans could not find dad and his mate, and the train eventually left. 'Sleeping by day and travelling by night, dad made his way to Hannover, and determined to go to his mother's house to get food, money and civilian clothing. 'Knocking on the door of his own home, he was told that his mother had committed suicide in July 1939, rather than submit to the Nazis. 'Despite the immense shock of that news, he went to see an aunt and uncle nearby, and obtained what limited help they could offer. 'Heading south toward Switzerland, he got as far as Frankfurt before he was challenged. A newspaper article describes Mr Stevens escape attempt as 'the boldest escape bid of the war' 'Not having had the opportunity to get any forged identity papers, he admitted to being an escaped British officer, and he was sent back to a POW camp. 'Advising the senior British officers in camp of his German language skills, Peter Stevens became a very active participant in great demand for most escape schemes. 'When he wasn't directly involved in escapes, he was always consulted by other prisoners who needed false documents prepared in the German language. 'On two separate occasions in December 1941, dad got dressed up as a German guard, and escorted a group of ten British prisoners out the camp gate. 'Both times they had to turn back, but after the war in 1946, an English newspaper called it "The Boldest Escape Attempt of the War". This daring escape attempt later earned him the Military Cross. His Jewish heritage was something that gradually became more clear to Mr Stevens as he researched his dad's history - after a poignant meeting in London 1996 he learned his family had lost some 10-15 members to the Holocaust. Mr Stevens said: 'Since I only discovered dad was Jewish 17 years after his death, I can only guess as to his motives for not sharing it. 'Firstly, dad never practiced the faith of his family after the age of six, when his father died and he was sent away to boarding school. 'According to his sister, he was never Bar Mitzvahed. So I don't know if he really even felt any affinity to his religion. 'Secondly, he emigrated from the UK to a very Catholic Quebec in 1952, and he was likely worried about latent discrimination, which was still very much in evidence in that society. 'After 1996, I asked my mother if she would have married him, knowing he was Jewish. She had close Jewish friends and was never anti-Semitic in any way, but she said honestly that she probably would not have done so in that place and time. 'That was no reflection on her, but rather on the societal norms of the day, in a place where even the government bowed to the Church. 'Today, I am very proud to be the son of one of the bravest men I ever met. 'I only wish that I'd known all this while he was still alive, so that I could tell my father how proud I am of what he did during the war.' 106 pellets were concealed internally and were found upon medical exam He was travelling from Thailand and was The man was targeted for a baggage A 45-year-old UK man has been arrested for allegedly importing half a kilogram of methamphetamine into Australia in the form of 106 internally concealed pellets. The man was targeted for a baggage examination after he arrived in Perth on a flight from Thailand on Saturday, Australian Federal Police said. He has been charged with importing a marketable quantity of a border controlled drug and will face the Perth Magistrates Court. A 45-year-old UK man has been arrested for allegedly importing half a kilogram of methamphetamine into Australia in the form of 106 internally concealed pellets (pictured) The Australian Border Forced at Perth airport suspected the man may have been concealing the drugs within his body and referred him to the AFP for a medical examination. He later passed 106 white pellets with pink stamps on them, believed to contain methamphetamine with an combined weight of around 500 grams. Officers will do further tests on the pellets to confirm the substance is in fact pure methamphetamine. ABF Regional Commander Western Australia Rod O'Donnell said people who chose to conceal drugs internally did so at significant risk to their own health. The man was targeted for a baggage examination after he arrived at Perth airport (stock photo) on a flight from Thailand on Saturday 'If you conceal drugs internally you're playing Russian Roulette with your life,' he said. 'ABF officers are alert to the range of ways people try to smuggle drugs into the country, including internally, and are dedicated to detecting those who try to evade detection at the border.' AFP Manager Crime Operations Paul Osborne said Australian law enforcement will remain vigilant in detecting drug smugglers. 'We will continue working together with our domestic and international partners to further investigate and disrupt illicit drug importations,' Commander Osborne said. 'This seizure sends a strong message to anyone who thinks they can bring illegal substances into Australia you will be caught and you will face the full force of the law.' Officials investigating footage claim she could be mentally ill or on drugs Woman is then seen kissing a tree surrounded by locals and authorities A video showing a woman dressed in white, wandering around the roads at night and scaring people has some believing she could be possessed by evil spirits. The footage was filmed in the Colinas del Rey District in the city of Culiacan, in the north-western Mexican state of Sinaloa where it was widely shared on social networks. The first part of the clip that was filmed from inside a car shows a woman walking in the middle of the road dressed a ghost-like white outfit. As the vehicle approaches the woman, she sits next to the hood and then starts making a strange noise, causing the men inside to shriek in terror The woman, dressed in a white dress, also approaches the car window and shrieks at the men inside As the vehicle approaches her, she sits next to the hood and then starts making a strange noise, causing the men inside to shriek in terror. She also gets to the driver's window and makes a roaring noise. In the last part of the video, locals and authorities can be seen around the woman, who appears to be kissing a tree. The footage, which has been widely shared on social media, shows the woman at one point pining next to a tree She finally lays down on the ground as someone pours water on her face. Although the authors of the video and many members of online communities believe she is possessed, the woman could be mentally ill, officials investigating the video said. Ernesto Echverria Aispuro, a local health ministry official, suggested she might have been under the influence of drugs, saying: 'Bath salts and Krokodil are drugs that alter the consciousness of people.' He was referring to a number of white powders and crystals sold on the street known as 'bath salts' which are designer drugs - and Krokodil, the street name for a powerful morphine derivative. The woman was not identified, but locals in the video call her 'Sofia'. She is currently under the scrutiny of authorities for a series of psychiatric exams. In the last part of the video, locals and authorities can be seen around the woman who appears to be kissing the tree The FBI have assumed control of the investigation Maci was later found safe and well later in the day A missing four-year-old girl has been found alive on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation in Montana, two days after she was reportedly abducted. Roosevelt County spokesman Lee Allmer says the girl, Maci Lilley, was found Sunday and was undergoing a medical exam to make sure she was not harmed. The girl was found by Undersheriff Corey Reum a few miles north of Wolf Point, the town where witnesses say she was taken by a young man in a park about 9:30 p.m. Friday. The sheriff's office says John Lieba, 20, was taken into custody and questioned in Wolf Point. Maci Lilley (pictured) was taken by a male suspect while she was out playing at a park in a Native American reservation, witnesses say John 'Billy' Lieba, 20, (left) has since been taken into custody but the hunt for Maci, (right) who remains missing, continues Allmer says no information is being released on where the girl was found or details about Lieba. Allmer told The Missoulian newspaper that Lieba was not related to Maci or anyone in her family by blood, but could have been a family friend. 'Witnesses report he took Maci against her will and fled on foot into the West End housing area,' the sheriff's office told the Missoulian. Officers had gone door to door looking for Lieba before finding him in a vehicle. Authorities had asked locals not to get involved in the investigation, which was being handled by the FBI. Locals reported that he has been living in the town on the reserve for some time. Maci Lilley was last seen on Friday night in a park in Wolf Point, on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation, in Montana Officers told NBC News they were 'following up on every lead' and going 'house to house' in a 'massive law enforcement response'. An aerial search, using both military and private aircraft, was also used. Initially, authorities had been reluctant to make the search public out of fear the suspect could hurt Maci. After Lieba's arrest, Roosevelt County officers launched a full scale public search for the young girl. The four-year-old was described as being Native American with brown hair and eyes, short hair and bangs. A 'disabled' ex-NYPD officer has received over $1 million in taxpayer money since retiring on disability, despite the fact that he works as a celebrity bodyguard. James 'Sugar' Kane retired in 1991 from the force after he tore his rotator cuff in an on-duty car accident, the New York Daily News reported. According to the New York City Police Pension Fund, through his tax-free disability pension, he receives $3,415 per month, which also provides him with health care. 'I'm disabled from the PD but not from life, bud,' Kane told the Daily News. James 'Sugar' Kane retired in 1991 from the NYPD on disability after he tore his rotator cuff in an on-duty car accident, but now he works as a celebrity bodyguard. Above he is pictured far right protecting Miley Cyrus Through his tax-free disability pension, Kane receives $3,415 per month. Since 1991 he has received more than $1million. Above he is pictured far right protecting Miley Cyrus Kane's pension cannot be revoked regardless of his new career under the terms of the New York City Police Pension Fund. Above he is pictured far right with Miley Cyrus trying to cover up Since retiring on disablity, he has worked protecting celebrities like Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, Caitlyn Jenner and Britney Spears - often times being caught in the background of paparazzi photos. The 51-year-old's pension cannot be revoked regardless of his new career under the terms of the New York City Police Pension Fund. 'It's untouchable,' he boasted to the Daily News. 'I know that. I called my union and they laughed. 'I can do whatever I want ... I got hurt as a police officer protecting the city in the '90s.' One paparazzo who is very familiar with Kane told the Daily News that he is 'definitely not disabled' and said that 'he isn't friendly.' A source told the Daily News that after Kane retired from working in the 20th Precinct covering the Upper West Side he attended a party where the ex-cop toasted to the huge pension he had been awarded. 'It's a joke. That's what I'm saying. He walked out of the department and collected all this money, and he didn't do anything,' the source told the Daily News. Kane is not the first ex-cop who works in a new career despite, collecting huge sums of money through disability. One paparazzo who is very familiar with Kane told the Daily News that he is 'definitely not disabled' and said that 'he isn't friendly.' Above he is pictured far right as he protects Caitlyn Jenner last year A spokeswoman for Mayor Bill de Blasio, Amy Spitalnick, said it's 'unfortunate that some cops take advantage.' 'Disability benefits compensate those who keep our city safe when they are injured in the line of duty,' Spitalnick told the Daily News. 'It's unfortunate that some take advantage of loopholes in the law.' An inquiry by the city's Department of Investigation has been reportedly launched concerning the pension fund. The probe is examining individual cases and also officers who have retired within 20 years of the date they were hired, the Daily News reported. If they are in good health and want to keep their pension, officers in that category who retired on disability can be forced to return to active duty, according to the Daily News. 'If you're retiring on a disability and then you're getting a job and doing essentially the same thing you're getting disability for that's going to raise some red flags,' Empire Center executive director Tim Hoefer told the Daily News. 'There's a problem that needs to be solved here.' A new CNN/ORC poll, released this Super Tuesday eve, cements each party's respective frontrunner as such, with Donald Trump leading the GOP pack by 33 points and Hillary Clinton besting Bernie Sanders by 17. Trump is receiving the support from 49 percent of Republicans nationally, followed by Sen. Marco Rubio with 16, who barely leads Ted Cruz with 15 percent. Ben Carson creeped back up into double-digits with 10 percent, while Ohio Gov. John Kasich trails the pack with 6 percent support. Clinton and Sanders' numbers remain relatively unchanged from last month as she receives 55 percent of Democratic support, while he gets 38 percent. She moved the dial up three points from January, though that's within the poll's margin of error of plus or minus 5 points. Scroll down for video The frontrunners: New numbers out this morning show Hillary Clinton (left) and Donald Trump (right) with commanding leads Donald Trump totally dominates the Republican field, beating second place Marco Rubio by 33 points There was more movement on the Republican side with the early states substantially slimming down the once-crowded field. First, Trump made some gains. When CNN's last poll was taken, which was before the Feb. 1 Iowa caucuses, and New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada since, Trump was at 41 percent, now he's at 49 percent. Cruz, who was the No. 2 Republican in January, has slipped to No. 3 in February, after the winning the Iowa caucuses, but then coming in third place in every contest since. Cruz went from 19 percent to 15 percent, a slide downward, but within the poll's margin of error. Rubio, now at No. 2, saw his support double within a month's time from 8 points to 16 points but Trump's still bests him by 33 points. Democrat Bernie Sanders hasn't seen any gains in a month in the CNN//ORC poll capturing 38 percent in both January and February Hillary Clinton also has a double-digit lead in the Democratic primary, though bests Sanders by 17 points rather than the 33 that Trump leads the Republican field Carson and Kasich both saw gains too, with Carson bouncing from 6 percent to 10 percent, and Kasich, who received more national name recognition after coming in second place after Trump in New Hampshire, going from 1 percent to 6 percent. Support for the candidates is firming up too with 68 percent of Republicans saying they will definitely support their current chosen candidate, with 32 percent saying they might change their mind. In January, 53 percent of voters said they had settled on a candidate with 46 percent saying they could still switch it up. If Trump becomes the nominee, he has the highest percentage of Republican voters who said they wouldn't support him as their party's standard bearer. Of those polled, 35 percent said they would definitely not support him, while another 13 percent said they would probably not support him. For Cruz these numbers are 11 percent who would definitely not vote for the Texas senator, while 20 percent probably wouldn't support him. The poll found that 12 percent of Republicans would definitely not support Rubio, while 17 percent probably wouldn't support him. Sen. Marco Rubio has seen his support double in one month's time - from 8 percent to 16 percent - but he still badly trails nationally the GOP frontrunner Donald Trump Ted Cruz, who came in first place in Iowa and has come in third place in every contest since, has also been bumped down to third place among the five Republicans, trailing Trump and coming in behind Rubio In better news for Trump, he comes in on top when Republicans are asked about attributes getting high marks for being effective at solving the country's problems (51 percent), being a responsible commander-in-chief (48 percent), 'best understand[ing] the problems facing people like you' (46 percent) and being the most honest and trustworthy (35 percent). On the Democratic side, frontrunner Clinton has a higher percentage of Democrats saying they won't support her than Sanders though her numbers are not nearly as bad as Trump's. Twenty percent of Democratic primary voters said that they wouldn't support Clinton as their party's nominee, while just 6 percent said the same thing as Sanders. In the four attributes voters were asked about, Clinton wins the commander-in-chief test (73 percent) and Democrats believe she'd be more effective at solving the country's problems (63 percent). She and Sanders are basically tied when Democrats were asked 'best understands the problems facing people like you' with Clinton receiving 49 percent and Sanders receiving 48 percent. Sanders beats her easily when voters were asked about honesty and trustworthiness. The Vermont senator receives 59 percent to Clinton's 36 percent. And, in what's also good news for both frontrunners, 70 percent of voters see Clinton and Trump winning their parties respective nominations. Hillary Clinton could have a fight on her hands in New York if she and Donald Trump win their political parties' respective nominations to the presidency. According to private polling obtained by the New York Post, Trump's support in his own backyard is 'surprisingly strong' despite the state's history of voting for Democrats. If former New York City Major Michael Bloomberg gets in as an independent, the road to the White House gets even tougher for Clinton, the Post's sources said. Hillary Clinton could have a fight on her hands in New York if she and Donald Trump win their political parties' respective nominations to the presidency Barack Obama won the state both times he ran with 63 percent of the vote. An ex-New York senator, Clinton was expected to do at least as well. The Democratic presidential candidate is seen here greeting fans in Nashville yesterday Bloomberg would take away a 'significant' amount of votes from Clinton, they told the Post. Barack Obama won the state both times he ran with 63 percent of the vote. An ex-New York senator, Clinton was expected to do at least as well. The last time New York voted for a Republican was 1984, when Ronald Reagan was on the ballot. Trump's candidacy could throw that into jeopardy. The billionaire was born in Queens and has made New York City his home. Clinton and her husband bought a house there in 1999, during Bills final term in office, so she could run for the U.S. Senate. She won the 2000 race and held the position for until 2008 when she was asked to serve in President Obama's cabinet as secretary of state. Since resigning, in early 2013, Clinton has spent much of her time in New York, working for her family's foundation, aside from her 2016 run for the White House, that is. Still, she's no native New Yorker like Trump, and that could help the billionaire secure a victory in the state and collect all its delegates come November. A major problem for Clinton is likeability. 'In the suburbs and upstate, Trump has a net positive while Hillary is a net negative,' a Republican operative told the New York Post. 'Shes more of a liability than many Democrats realized.' The confidential polls suggested that Trump's supporters are more intense and may be more lilkely than Hillary's backers to vote. Clinton is no native New Yorker like Trump, and that could help the billionaire secure a victory in the state and collect all its delegates come November. Trump is seen above at a rally in Alabama yesterday A Siena College poll released earlier this month shows that Trump isn't very well-liked in New York, either, though. Seven in 10 New York voters said he's not their cup of joe. He did better with Republicans, but barely made it out of the red. Five in 10 members of his own political party said they like him, and 43 percent said they do not. Democrats were against him 87-12. Dragging down his numbers further, two thirds of independents said they're not hot on Trump. Clinton had an overall favorability rating of 50 percent. When just Democrats were considered, that shot up to 73 percent. Republicans said 84 -14 that they don't like her. She scored better with independents than Trump, though - 53 percent gave her yeas, and 42 percent gave her nays. More importantly, New Yorkers said they'd pick Clinton over Trump in a general election scenario. Artur Samarin, a 23-year-old Ukrainian national, was arrested for masquerading as an 18-year-old schoolboy in Pennsylvania The Ukrainian man arrested for posing as a high school student says he has no regrets as his adoptive grandmother reveals she was always suspicious of him. Artur Samarin, a 23-year-old Ukrainian national, was taken into custody last week for masquerading as an 18-year-old schoolboy at Harrisburg High School in Pennsylvania for four years using the name Asher Potts. He has been charged with multiple felonies, including identity theft and tampering with public records. He is also accused of statutory sexual assault for allegedly having sex with a 15-year-old girl when he was 22. But today, he said he admitted his guilt but insisted the plot was not his idea. Im not regretting doing it, he told WHTM in a phone interview from Dauphin County Prison. I have spent all of my free time on education. However, the conversation took place before the additional sexual assault charge was filed. Meanwhile, his adoptive grandmother has said she is not shocked at the revelations. Carolyn Potts, 86, who lives in Arizona, says the man she knew as her grandson was a neighbor of her son Michael and his wife Stephayne. Scroll down for video Samarin pictured with Pennsylvania State Rep. Patty Kim on his induction into the National Honor Society in May 2014 under the name Asher Potts The couple grew attached to him and a few years ago, began formal adoption proceedings. She described Samarin as a charmer and likable, but said she always felt a little bit suspicious. Somehow or the other, Im not totally astonished, she told PennLive. There was something about the whole situation. I couldnt put my finger on it from day one. She said her daughter-in-law Stephayne McClure-Potts longed to have children, but didnt have any of her own. And Samarin insists it was his adoptive parents who came up with the idea to pretend he was younger than he actually was. I just want you to know it was not my idea, he said. Samarin claims his adoptive parents came up with the idea to knock five years off his age because at the age of 20, they would not have been able to adopt him. I said OK, looks like I have no choice, he added. Samarin alleges that McClure-Potts helped him obtain his Pennsylvania drivers license, Social Security card as well as a birth certificate stating he was born in 1997. He also says the couple took advantage of his situation to treat him like a servant. Everything they ask of me, I could not tell them no, he said. If I say no, they gonna call immigration and send me back. He insisted he had come to the United States for a better life. Samarin (second from right) was recently one of the youth panelists on a town hall forum to discuss violence But Carolyn Potts says that she always suspected something was remiss. I just had a feeling this was too fortuitous, she said. Samarin told her arrived in the United States a few years ago on an exchange program where he was given a job with the Hershey Company. Police believe Samarin arrived around four years ago on a temporary visa. When it expired, he was given a tourist visa. According to WHTM, that visa expired in March 2013. After his adoption, McClure-Potts helped Samarin enroll at Harrisburg High School as freshman in 2012. At school, he excelled by May 2014, he had a 4.16 GPA, was a runner-up for homecoming king and participated in numerous extracurricular activities. He was also a member of the ROTC and Naval Sea Cadet Program and as also inducted into the National Honor Society. Hes really quite bright, added Carolyn Potts. His aim was to earn a doctorate in aerospace engineering at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida. The school rescinded Samarins acceptance this week, PennLive reports. He told her had been accepted into a number of schools, Potts added, including Yale University with a full scholarship. Daily Mail Online has contacted Yale for comment. But the deception came to light after Harrisburg Police received a tip in December last year from someone who claimed an adult man was attending high school and having sexual relationships with students. Samarin was arrested last week and remains in Dauphin County Prison with a $200,000 bond. His preliminary arraignment is scheduled for March 4. The cost of going to Europe on holiday could soar after a Brexit vote, a top bank warned today. UBS forecast a 'sharp correction' in the currency markets if Britain votes to leave the EU - a move which could make the pound worth about the same as the euro. Such an adjustment could make travelling in the eurozone more expensive within hours of the result being declared as markets will open as normal. A 'sharp correction' in the currency markets following a Brexit vote could make a visit to Rome, left, or Barcelona, right, more expensive A weaker pound in Europe would start making things more expensive for British travellers quickly. It means both that the pound in travellers' pockets buys less while in the eurozone and damages the overall conversion rate when buying holidays outright. UBS analyst John Wraith said the pound was already drifting toward the value of the euro because of lingering uncertaintyy - pointing out one euro is currently worth about 78p and forecasting it will hit about 84p by the referendum date. And Mr Wraith warned today: 'We estimate the exchange rate level that would accommodate a sharp correction in the UK's current account deficit and find that EUR/GBP could go to parity.' The bank estimates there is about a 60 per cent chance Britain will vote to stay in the EU, after studying opinion polls. If this happened, Mr Wraith said he would expect the pound and euro to drift back to the level where it was for much of last year. Mr Wraith said: 'We think that EUR/GBP should revert to the 0.73 level, near which it spent most of last year. 'In our view, the largest part of the weakness in sterling since November can be attributed to increased concern over the possibility of exit from the EU.' James McGrory, chief campaign spokesman, said: 'Yet again independent experts have found that leaving Europe would hit Brits where it hurts in the pocket, with higher prices and the pound taking a pounding. 'Britain's EU membership means Brits pay less doing their shopping and booking their holiday abroad. 'While the Leave campaigns refuse to say what Out would look like, the only consequences we can bank on are increased financial risk and insecurity. Leaving is a risk we simply can't afford to take.' Angela Merkel has declared she will carry out her 'damned duty' to help refugees despite a poll suggest nine out of ten Germans want a limit on migrants entering the country. The German chancellor appeared on TV in the country last night and was pressed hard on the issue of the migration crisis and how it is affecting Europe. It came on the same day a new poll was released with only 11 per cent of respondents in Germany saying they didn't want a cap on migrants coming into the country. German Chancellor Angela Merkel appearing on national TV last night, where she said it was her 'damned duty' to help refugees Merkel was hard pressed by TV host Anne Will on immigration and said limiting the numbers of migrants would not solve the crisis And despite being questioned on her stance on not limiting the number of refugees, she said it was the only way to solve the crisis. Speaking to ARD Television's Anne Will, she said: 'My damn duty and obligation consists of finding a collective way for this Europe (to address the crisis).' And later on in her appearance, when the German leader was confronted about angry mobs opposing refugees arriving in their towns, she said that the country' constitution's most sacred principle was that 'human dignity is inviolable.' She added: 'These are citizens who are doing somthing that I deeply reject.' Refugees line up for food on the Greece-Macedonia border, as they continue to stream into Athens Merkel also criticised the move by Austria and several Balkan countries to introduce border controls or cap daily migrant arrivals. Pictured are migrants near Macedonia Her appearance came as a nationwide poll also suggested that 38 per cent of Germans agreed that a cap should be set on the number of asylum seekers at 200,000 a year. Meanwhile 21 per cent of respondents said Germany should take in no migrants. In the interview, Merkel was also tackled on Greece and said that the EU cannot allow Greece, a country bailed ofrom its huge debt crisis, to plunge into 'chaos' by shutting European borders to refugees. She added: 'Do you seriously believe that all the euro states that last year fought all the way to keep Greece in the eurozone - and we were the strictest - can one year later allow Greece to, in a way, plunge into chaos?' Merkel also criticised the move by Austria and several Balkan countries to introduce border controls or cap daily migrant arrivals, creating a bottleneck in Greece as refugee boats continue to arrive from Turkey. Migrants line up for food after leaving a boat in Athens. Merkel was also tackled on Greece and said that the EU cannot allow Greece, a country bailed ofrom its huge debt crisis, to plunge into 'chaos' A baby is brought ashore from a migrant boat on the Greek island of Lesbos after making the journey from Turkey She explained: 'What has happened is exactly what we feared, that a country is now left alone with its problems, and we can't allow. Anger has been building in Greece, the European gateway for hundreds of thousands of migrants, after Vienna introduced a daily cap on asylum applications and four Balkan countries, Macedonia, Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia, tightened entry conditions. Germany last year took in over one million asylum seekers, more than half from war-torn Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, leaving Merkel exposed to rising criticism at home as well as from many EU partners. Merkel said Germany's responsibility was 'not to solve the problem at the expense of another country but together with other countries.' Melanie Roberts (pictured) has been charged with robbing the limousine driver she hired to chauffeur her for her birthday A Connecticut woman celebrating her 50th birthday in style has been charged with robbing the limousine driver she hired to chauffeur her around town. Melanie Roberts had a dispute with the driver over how much she owed him just after midnight Monday, Willimantic police said. Police said she removed the keys from the vehicle and ran to her home where she grabbed a loaded 9mm pistol. In a news release, authorities said: 'Upon returning she threatened to "shoot-out" the tires to the limousine. 'The woman then reached inside the limousine and removed a GPS mapping device and clipboard which contained money and her signed contract for the service.' Roberts took off and the driver contacted 911, authorities said. Willimantic police said: 'Police officer's [sic] then arrived within the area and detained the female in question within that same parking lot. 'The woman was arrested and a 9mm pistol was located on her person.' Cpl. Stanley F. Parizio, Jr. told the Hartford Courant: 'Anytime you mix alcohol, heightened emotions and a firearm...things can turn sideways. 'We were fortunate that no one was injured and that no shots were fired.' She was detained on $100,000 bond on six charges: sixth-degree larceny, breach of peach, first-degree robbery, second-degree threatening, and carrying a firearm under the influence. It's not clear if she has a lawyer. Roberts has been released on $100,000 bond, according to Masslive.com. Willimantic police said she was due in court Monday. A Canadian man caught smuggling nearly 40 turtles in his pants has been fined and placed on probation for two years. Dong Yan was convicted on February 17 for illegally importing reptiles after he was caught crossing the Niagara border in June 2014, with 38 turtles strapped to his legs. As well as the $3,500 Canadian (US$2,578) fine - which will be directed to the Environmental Damages Fund - Yan is also prohibited from owning turtles and tortoises for ten years. Red-eared Slider (left) and Ringed Map turtles (right) were among those smuggled by Dong Yan, who was caught with 38 turtles strapped to his legs with tape while trying to cross the Niagara border Yan had tried to bring the reptiles from the United States into the southern part of the province, through the Niagara border (pictured) His sentence included 50 hours of community service and he must notify the environment department of international travel. Yan, of Windsor, Ontario, was also ordered to write a letter about his experience 'for publication as the department sees fit.' According to Canada's environment department, Yan had tried to bring the reptiles from the United States into the southern part of the province. Environment and Climate Change Canada said in a statement Thursday: 'The turtles were contained in plastic bags and taped to Mr. Yan's legs.' Officials say live specimens are often sought for use in the pet and food trade. Officials say live specimens are often sought for use in the pet and food trade. Pictured left and right, a Cambodian woman sells cooked freshwater-turtles at a market in Kandal province The turtles were identified as ringed map turtles, diamondback terrapins, three-toed box turtles, spotted turtles and red-eared sliders. The incident was looked into as part of a co-operative investigation between the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and Environment and Climate Change Canada enforcement officers, according to The Toronto Star. And this is not an unusual occurrence. Last year, a Canadian smuggler was caught attempting to sneak more than 1,000 reptiles over the Canadian border. Kai Xu, 27, ordered the turtles online and travel to the U.S. from Canada to collect them before either shipping them to China or returning with them to Ontario. He pleaded guilty to six crimes in federal court in Ann Arbor in December last year and now faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A historic Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, tavern is offering some Leap Day incentives to women looking to settle down. McGillin's Olde Ale House is trotting out a Leap Day tradition encouraging women to propose to men, KYW-TV reported. According to Irish folklore, February 29 was the one day of the year where women could pop the question to men. Legend has it that St. Brigid had complained to St. Patrick about how unfair it was for women to wait for men to propose, and they brokered the Leap Day deal. McGillin's Olde Ale House is trotting out a Leap Day tradition encouraging women to propose to men. It is offering 100 gift cards to the first five women who propose to their man at the bar on Monday McGillin's is offering $100 gift cards to the first five women who propose to their man at the bar on Monday. The man has to say "Yes," according to KYW-TV's report. The bar said on Facebook Monday: 'Ladies: Be one of the first 5 to propose here on today (Leap Day) and you'll get not only a spouse, but also a $100 gift certificate. 'Just, call us in advance 215/735-5562 & propose publicly.' Owner Christopher Mullins says they decided to embrace the legend and the day. He told KYW-TV: 'Leap year is an unusual year. 'We decided let's take the opportunity and allow the women to take charge of the day and propose to the man of her dreams.' Owner Christopher Mullins says they decided to embrace the legend and the day The bar says on its website: 'McGillin's Olde Ale House threw open its doors the year Lincoln was elected president. 'That's shortly after the Liberty Bell cracked and long before ground was broken for Philadelphia City Hall. A gang leader boasted his gun runners were 'officially gangsters' after smuggling 100,000 of automatic weapons into Britain on an adapted boat, the Old Bailey heard today. Harry Shilling, 25, allegedly masterminded the operation to import 22 assault rifles, nine sub-machine guns and bullets on board a special boat named Albernina. The cruiser was loaded in Boulogne, France, and arrived with its 'evil' cargo at Cuxton Marina, near Rochester in Kent, on August 10 last year. Cache: A gang has been accused of smuggling these 22 assault rifles into Britain in a haul said to be worth 100,000 Mission: The guns and bullets were allegedly smuggled from France to Rochester in Kent on this cruiser MV Albernina, pictured, last August Prosecutor Duncan Atkinson QC said when the boat docked Shilling sent a message to his man in Europe, Michael Defraine, 30, to say: 'We (are) now officially gangsters', to which Defraine responded: 'F****** nice one'. The deadly weapons, bought at 'shockingly low' prices in Eastern Europe, could be sold on at up to 4,000 a gun. The cache of weapons was 'capable of unleashing carnage on a terrifying scale' and would give criminals a chance to 'to maim and kill' at will, jurors heard today. But the National Crime Agency (NCA) - known as Britain's FBI - had the gang under surveillance and seized the guns, the court heard. Shilling, 25, Michael Defraine, 30, John Smale, 58, and Jennifer Arthy, 42, are on trial for gun smuggling and possessing firearms with intent to endanger life. Prosecutor Duncan Atkinson QC said the smuggling plan was not disputed as Richard Rye, 24, David Payne, 43, and Christopher Owen, 30, had already pleaded guilty. He told jurors that it was for them to decide who else was in on the plot. Shilling allegedly came up with the plan and paid for the guns, with help from his man on the Continent, Defraine, and 'loyal lieutenant' Rye, who acted as a 'go-between' with others. Skipper Payne brought the guns into the country on board the Albernina, which was paid for by Shilling and Rye, the court heard. Payne's partner Arthy along with Smale and Owen, both from Rochester, were allegedly recruited to help buy and prepare the vessel and unload its cargo. Valuable: These 'sought after' Skorpion machine guns, which were originally developed for use by Czech special forces, would have netted 3,500 a piece Deadly: The 1,000 rounds of ammunition and two silencers, were purchased cheaply in Eastern Europe Shilling and Defraine travelled regularly to the Continent and phone records allegedly showed how they planned the importation route. Their BlackBerry mobile phones had been installed with encryption software which the NCA was able to crack to provide 'compelling evidence' of their key roles, the court heard. On trial: Jennifer Arthy, of Rochester, Kent, is one of four people who deny being part of gun smuggling scheme On August 10, the Albernina, loaded with the firearms, sailed from Boulogne up the River Medway towards Cuxton Marina, near Rochester. On arriving back in the UK, Payne texted Rye to say 'All done' followed by an email from Shilling to Defraine saying: 'There (sic) home.' Later, Shilling sent another email saying 'We now officially gangsters', to which Defraine responded: 'F****** nice one. Shilling replied: 'Hahahaha defo that's sick. Duck and run for cover b*****s,' followed by: 'We are a firm ant we.' Defraine allegedly replied: 'Proper heavy and armed to the teeth no one wants beef fam.' Shilling also exchanged messages with a mystery contact 'B' to arrange the onward supply of the guns, the court heard. He stated: 'Next month I have 30 glocks I will sell.' B replied: 'Ok mate let me polish the ak first and then u gonna give sweets with them?' Shilling replied: 'Yea theres 2 clips with each one'. On August 11, Shilling, Defraine and Rye went to DIY store Homebase to buy bags and tools to bury the weapons until they were needed, Mr Atkinson said. Each of the 22 Czech assault riles, similar to an AK47, would have fetched up to 4,000 even though they were sold at 'shockingly low' prices in Eastern Europe. They had been reactivated and made available for purchase in the Czech or Slovak republics. The 'sought after' Skorpion machine guns, which were originally developed for use by Czech special forces, would have netted 3,500 apiece. Mr Atkinson said: 'The prosecution contends that these guns were more than trophies - they were working weapons and they came with a large amount of working ammunition. 'The defendants intended these guns to be used, and to be used with ammunition, for the purpose for which they were designed - as lethal weapons capable of unleashing carnage on a terrifying scale - and they clearly intended to profit from doing so.' Shilling, from Swanley, Defraine, from Bexleyheath, Smale, from Rochester, and Arthy, who lived with Payne on a houseboat in Cuxton, deny the charges against them. An investigation into cheating at one of the nation's largest police academies has effectively forced out 29 cadets, it has emerged. Their exit from the course comes just three weeks before the class was scheduled to graduate amid accusations a cheat sheet had been discovered, PennLive reported. Tyree Blocker, the Pennsylvania State Police force commander, told state senators the agency believes it has information that 'indicates that those individuals were a party' to the cheating scandal. A group of Pennsylvania State Police cadets (not those pictured) have left the academy's 144th graduating class amid a cheating scandal. Pictured are a group of troopers working at the Freddie Gray riots last year The nearly 70 cadets remaining in the organisation's 144th class are scheduled to graduate in mid-March. He told reporters: 'We're working very diligently at bringing some closure to the investigation. 'However, I want to be clear. We will not leave any stone unturned when it comes to the integrity of the Pennsylvania State Police.' Some of the 29 were dismissed and others resigned, he said. Mr Blocker also briefed state senators during an Appropriations Committee hearing on the status of the 29 cadets. During the more than six months of training, cadets are subject to a battery of written tests. Blocker said a discovery by the academy staff prompted the investigation and that the testing process was compromised. He said the agency is reviewing the testing methodology, but he would not describe the manner of cheating that is under investigation or what spurred the probe. Blocker first disclosed on February 4 that the internal affairs unit was conducting a 'full and comprehensive' investigation. He said the investigation began in December and involved dozens of interviews and an extensive collection of evidence. High school students have sparked outrage after they started wearing anti-gay stickers on their identity badges. But faculty at Shadow Hills High School in Indio, California, insisted they couldn't force the teenagers to remove the labels because it would violate their right to freedom of speech. The symbols show a rainbow pattern crossed out with a red circle and a line. They started popping up in the hallways three weeks ago, prompting concern by classmates and teachers. Students at Shadow Hills High School in Indio, California, have sparked outrage after they started wearing anti-gay stickers (pictured) on their identity badges. They have caused concern among staff, but the school has said the teenagers have a right to wear the controversial stickers People also slammed the labels as homophobic when images of them were uploaded to Facebook. But the school released a statement to the Desert Sun saying: 'After consulting with district level personnel and our legal counsel, it was determined that these students do have the protected right to freedom of speech, just as students portraying rainbows in support of the LGBT would. 'If at any point students are interrupting class time to express their beliefs, they are to be sent to the discipline office with a referral for disruption. 'We all have a right to freedom of speech, but students also have a right to be educated without fear. This has always been our policy, and we will continue to enforce it.' School officials then seemed to backpedal, saying they had asked students to remove the symbols 'for now' as they await more information, the Desert Sun reported. 'Some information has been brought forward that requires additional investigation and follow-up to determine a proper course of action,' Desert Sands Unified School District superintendent Gary Rutherford said on Monday in a letter to Shadow Hills staff. 'Pending further investigation, we are going to ask students who are displaying the symbol showing a rainbow pattern with a circle and a line, at least for now, to remove symbols while at school.' In response to the anti-gay stickers, students including eighth-grader Paige Labayog started coloring in rainbow smiley faces to wear on their ID badges. Some teachers have also gone against their school district, insisting they aren't happy with the decision. Amy Oberman, an AP U.S. History teacher at Shadow Hills, told the newspaper: 'Yes, there is freedom of speech established by Tinker, but at least in my view, it's a hate crime because a group was targeted. The labels started popping up in the hallways of the school (pictured) three weeks ago, prompting concern by classmates and teachers. Some teachers have gone against the school's decision In response, students including eighth-grader Paige Labayog started coloring in rainbow smiley faces to wear on their ID badges 'I'm Jewish, and if that had been a little swastika on my window, what's the difference?' Michelle Bachman, a senior at Shadow Hills and vice president of the Gay Straight Alliance, said she feels the anti-gay symbols 'rise to the level of bullying and intimidation.' Police are withholding footage from body cameras that officers were wearing in Utah when a 17-year-old boy who was wielding a broomstick was shot and critically injured. Salt Lake City police say they are not releasing the footage involved in Abdi Mohamed's shooting because of the ongoing investigation and the possibility that the teenager could face charges. Mohamed spent part of Sunday in a coma before waking up in a downtown Salt Lake City hospital, Fox 13 reported. He moved to America 10 years ago from Kenya and lives with his girlfriend and their son, according to the Fox 13. Scroll down for video Abdi Mohamed, who lives with his girlfriend and their son, moved to the States from Kenya 10 years ago. He is now fighting for his life in a Salt Lake City, Utah, hospital after being shot in the chest and stomach by police Unrest broke out in a Salt Lake City neighborhood on Saturday night after the police involved shooting of a 17-year-old boy. Above police stop a different boy as he walks away from a crowd that formed after the shooting Police had said earlier Sunday that Mohamed was shot when he tried to attack one of the officers. Above a woman holds a young boy as a crowd of people clash with police Saturday He was gunned down at 8.15pm on Saturday when police saw him arguing with a man while clutching a broomstick, Fox 13 reports. Surrounding them, police allegedly told the boy to drop the stick. When he did not, 'shots were fired'. Mohamed was hit in the chest and the stomach. The brief confrontation has ignited hours of unrest in Salt Lake City's bustling downtown area. Police had said earlier Sunday that the teenager was shot when he tried to attack one of the officers. Salt Lake City Police Detective Greg Wilking said investigators were still trying to determine if that was the case. He said they had not yet interviewed the officers involved, neither of whom was injured. Police are not releasing the identity of the officers but said Sunday that both were placed administrative leave while the incident is investigated. Bystander Selam Mohammad told The Salt Lake Tribune and Deseret News that he was friends with the teenager and said the boy was shot as he turned to face police. Salt Lake City Police Detective Greg Wilking said investigators were still trying to determine if that was the case. Above a man confronts a police officer after the officer-involved shooting Saturday Police are not releasing the identity of the officers but said Sunday that both were placed administrative leave while the incident is investigated. Above officers advance on an angry crowd following the Saturday shooting 'He barely even turned around, then boom, boom, boom and he just dropped,' Mohammad told the Deseret News. Detective Ken Hansen with the Unified Police Department said he could not confirm or deny that account. After the shooting, bystanders began yelling obscenities and throwing rocks and bottles at police, who called in about 100 officers to help. Police barricaded four surrounding city blocks and a light rail stop in the neighborhood was closed. Hansen said the area was relatively busy, with people visiting a shopping center and restaurants and others hanging out at a nearby homeless shelter. 'There were pockets of that disturbance for hours,' Hansen said Sunday. Wilking said bystanders were throwing objects at police for only about 10 minutes. He said police asked people to leave, but did not physically move anyone. Four people were arrested for civil disorder, Salt Lake City police said. After the shooting, bystanders began yelling obscenities and throwing rocks and bottles at police, who called in about 100 officers to help. Above police arrest a man in an angry crowd that formed after the shooting Saturday Salt Lake City Mayor Jackie Biskupski said in a statement Sunday that she was saddened and that the shooting was a tragedy for everyone involved. 'The use of force by law enforcement against the public can tear at the delicate balance of trust between both sides, and must be taken extremely seriously,' she said. 'These incidents create a number of unanswered questions in the short term, and justice requires we work together in good faith to find answers.' Mohamed's girlfriend said that he is a 'good caring loving father.' 'He [is] a really caring, good, loving boyfriend, and a really, good caring loving father, I know what he was doing every day, the things he would do for us, I wouldn't expect that from him he just wanted to make sure we were loved and we were happy he put us in front of everything,' girlfriend Becca Monson told Fox 13. Roughly 700 people are expected to protest Monday night downtown at the Federal building on State Street. A Colorado teenager was left with horrific burns to his leg after he says his electronic cigarette spontaneously exploded in his pant pocket. 'Seeing your whole leg pussed out and all black, it doesn't make you feel too good about yourself,' 17-year-old Marcus Forzani said from his hospital bed on Sunday. The high school student from Castle Rock, Colorado, on Thursday suffered second- and third-degree burns to his left leg and hand when the battery in his vaporizer pen caught fire inside his pocket while he was at school. Warning: Graphic Content Scroll down for video Scorched: Marcus Forzani, 17, suffered gruesome injuries to his left leg and hand (pictured right) when an e-cigarette exploded in his pocket Charred flesh: The high-schooler from Colorado likened the experience to someone welding in his pocket and described seeing sparks flying Speaking to Fox31 Denver on Sunday, the injured boy recounted in vivid detail the moment he felt searing heat on his body while in class. Bell rang, stood up to get my jacket, which was on the other side of the classroom, five steps within that sparks started flying out of my pocket, Marcus said. It literally looked like someone was welding in my pocket. It literally looked like someone was welding in my pocket. Marcus Forzani on vape pen fire The 17-year-old was rushed to the Burn and Reconstruction Center of Colorado at Swedish Medical Center to be treated for his injuries. Graphic photos posted by his father, Mike Forzani, on a GoFundMe page created to help the family with his medical expenses show the teen's charred and blistered leg. Marcus has undergone one surgery and will require two more, followed by extended physical and scar management therapy. The teen and his father said they have decided to speak out about what happened to him in an effort to raise awareness of the dangers of vaporizers and encourage others to stop using them. Bed-ridden: The boy, pictured here at Swedish Medical Center in Colorado, has been recovering from the painful incident since last Thursday Long road ahead: Marcus has undergone one surgery and will need at least two more, followed by therapy Spreading the word: The teen and his father said they have decided to speak out about what happened to him in an effort to raise awareness of the dangers of vaporizers You see these kids [who are using e-cigarettes] and you're going, theres a ticking time bomb. Is that one going to blow up? Is that one going to catch this kid on fire? You don`t know, Mr Forzani told the station. Electronic cigarettes are battery-operated vaporizers that simulate the feeling of smoking, but without tobacco. Their use is commonly called vaping. Smokers like e-cigarettes because the nicotine-infused vapor looks like smoke but doesn't contain the thousands of chemicals, tar or odor of regular cigarettes. E-cigarette use by US tweens and teens tripled in 2014 to 13.4 per cent from 4.5 per cent in 2013, according to data released last April by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The US Food and Drug Administration says e-cigarettes have not been fully studied, so customers don't know the potential risks of the devices, how much nicotine is being inhaled during use, or whether vape pens may lead young people to try conventional cigarettes in the future. A mother who claimed she pulled her daughter out of a high school over concerns about the content of a sexual diversity program has labelled transgender children an 'affliction'. Appearing on ABC's Q&A on Monday night, Victorian mother Cella White said her 14-year-old son was told in science class that he could wear a dress to Frankston High School - about 40 kilometres south of Melbourne - as part of a transgender awareness program. The government-funded program - run by the Safe Schools Coalition since 2010 - is designed to create safe and inclusive school environments for same-sex attracted, intersex and gender diverse students. Scroll down for video Appearing on ABC's Q&A on Monday night, Victorian mother Cella White claimed she pulled her daughter out of a school over concerns about the content of a transgender awareness program 'I have no religious affiliation, but I believe it is biology that defines what sex you are, not radical gender theory,' Ms White told the ABC program. 'I did not feel comfortable with my daughter sharing rest rooms or PE change rooms with the boys who wish to identify as girls and withdrew her enrolment into Year 7 this year. 'Frankston High had told me they didn't have any transgender children so I just thought it is a funny approach for people sitting there that don't have that affliction.' Gay activist and medical practitioner Professor Kerryn Phelps weighed in on Ms White's comment, saying the program has been designed to 'respect an individual at whatever particular state of their development, psychologically and physically, they are at that particular time'. The panellist on ABC's Q&A discussed about the government-funded Safe Schools program on Monday night Ms White's controversial comment referring transgenders as 'affliction' has sparked outrage on social media 'The whole idea of the Safe Schools program is to ease the way for people regardless of where they end up in terms of their gender, for the other people around them to treat them with respect and kindness and compassion and empathy. These are human values,' Prof Phelps said. 'In terms of what medical path these people take, there is an enormous amount of counselling that goes into this, an enormous amount of psychological help until everybody is satisfied that the right option for this individual, at the correct age for them, to go through a transitioning process. 'Its not up to a Safe Schools program or the schools indeed to be teaching anything about outcomes for adult transgender individuals. I think that quoting these sorts of statistics is really unhelpful in this environment.' Victorian mother Cella White has reportedly pulled her children out of a school over claims a program that promotes transgender awareness is 'brainwashing' students within the institutions Ms White's controversial comment after she referred transgender people as 'affliction' has since sparked outrage on social media. Ben Davidson tweeted: 'Be [sic] gay isn't an 'affliction' and a parent describing it that way is why we need @SafeSchoolsAust.' Kim Asher wrote: 'The only 'affiliation' here is bigotry and its associated stupidity and bullying.' Ti Butler posted: 'I'm trans, so it's super interesting hearing I have 'an affliction' according to someone who Has Not Done The Research on #qanda tonight.' And Eliza Berlage said: 'When a parent refers to being trans as having an affliction, you know we don't need #safeschools, we need a revolution.' This comes after Ms White claimed her son was told to call transgender students by their preferred pronoun, the Herald Sun reported earlier this month. 'This isn't about safe schools, it's transgenderism and gay activism bought into the classroom,' Ms White told the publication. The mother of four said the school's policy could see children sharing a bathroom with gender-diverse students. 'It could be a year 12 student of the opposite-born sex in the bathroom with my year 7 daughter who is blind,' Ms White said. She also claimed that she was not the only parent who was unhappy with the school's policy. Ms White said she wanted to warn other parents of 'what their children are being taught'. 'It's being presented as an anti-bullying program but the education department said it's a sexual diversity program,' she said. The mother of four claims her 14-year-old son was encouraged to wear a dress to Frankston High School (pictured), about 40 kilometres south of Melbourne A spokesperson for Minister for Education James Merlino told Daily Mail Australia the program was designed to promote inclusion, safety and understanding within the school grounds. 'Claims that the program is about brainwashing or indoctrination are just wrong,' the spokesperson said. 'Discrimination, harassment and bullying have no place in Victorian schools, and it is up to all of us to establish safe and inclusive learning environments for every one of our students. 'We are proud of the work the Safe Schools Coalition is doing to make all Victorian students feel supported. 'Labor made an election commitment to bring this important program to every Victorian government school and we are happy to honour that promise.' The mother who claimed she pulled her daughter out of a school over concerns about the content of an 'anti-bullying' program has labelled transgender children an 'affliction' Director Safe Schools Coalition Australia Sally Richardson told Daily Mail Australia the program 'works to actively support schools, across all education sectors'. '[And] to build respectful relationships, celebrate diversity and support individual choices for the wellbeing of all young people. 'We provide schools with practical ways to foster a positive school culture where students, staff and families of all gender identities feel safe, included and valued. 'To date close to 500 schools have joined the program nationally and we look forward to seeing this number grow as we continue our work in 2016.' David Merritt (pictured outside court), 39, sent graphic pictures of himself to the teenager while grooming him for more than a year over Skype A former civil servant who recorded a 14-year-old boy posing naked on webcam was spared jail after volunteering himself for child abuse prevention research. David Merritt, 39, sent graphic pictures of himself to the teenager while grooming him for more than a year over Skype. Merritt, who worked in the Cabinet Office Corporate Strategy Unit, also had a library of more than 12,500 indecent images of child abuse and distributed some of them online, Southwark Crown Court heard. But Judge Anthony Pitts decided not to send him to prison after being told he had learnt his lesson and cooperated with police. Merritt has also volunteered himself for research to the Lucy Faithfull Foundation dedicated to preventing child sexual abuse. Judge Pitts told him: 'You are obviously an intelligent, capable individual and fully aware of your situation and the seriousness of the matters you have been charged with and pleaded guilty to. 'It seems to me you behaved as well as you could in the circumstances by co-operating with the police, allowing your computer and memory sticks and things of that kind and not trying to hide them and being very forthright in your co-operation. 'It is apparent that the boy was being groomed and had been groomed by other adult males. 'Even when you heard from him that he was 14 you still continued with what has been described as graphic discussions and role play. 'I know you understand because of the way you reacted to it and the steps that you have taken.' The judge said he had read a letter from Merritt's parents as well as a note written by Merritt for his barrister entitled 'Lessons Learnt'. Judge Pitts, addressing him, said: 'I have found this, Mr Merritt, a difficult case but having heard what I have heard and read what I have read I am going to pass custodial sentences but I am going to suspend them. 'It seems to me that I can just do that in this case.' The judge sentenced Merritt to two years imprisonment suspended for two years on each of the 15 counts he admitted. Robin Miric, prosecuting, told the court that Merritt used the name 'Karl Burnham' and claimed to be 25 while chatting to the boy 'C'. The barrister said: 'It came to the attention of the police that a child had been the victim of online grooming. 'C was, at the time, a 14-year-old boy from North Yorkshire. He was groomed by various persons on Skype. 'The contact started on April 3, 2013, with a message being sent from C to the defendant saying "Hi". 'Then there was regular contact - initially discussing with C their respective sexualities. Merritt, of Wimbledon, admitted 12 counts of making indecent images of a child, one count of distributing indecent images of a child, possessing extreme pornographic images and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity during his case, heard at Southwark Crown Court (pictured) 'This enabled C to become more confident and there was a request to send images of their respective genitalia which eventually did happen. 'During the communication the child complainant was encouraged to engage in sexual activity on camera on webcam and that did actually take place. 'A point was reached where the complainant admitted he was 14. He continued to ask C to reveal himself in various poses in front of the webcam.' The pair never met although they did discuss what they could do if they did. Merritt was arrested on December 2, 2014, and told police where he was storing the child abuse images. Of the total of 12,578 indecent images found, more than 3,000 were of the most serious category. Michael Shaw, representing Merritt, told the court: 'It is apparent, we say, that nobody could have done more since the arrest in December 2014 to try and redeem himself for what he recognises now to be appalling behaviour.' Mr Shaw said that Merritt has recently got a new job and his employers were willing to stand by him if he avoided a prison sentence. Merritt, of Wimbledon, admitted 12 counts of making indecent images of a child, one count of distributing indecent images of a child, possessing extreme pornographic images and causing or inciting a child to engage in sexual activity. As Bernie Sanders headed toward victory in New Hampshire, pundits noted the barrier he was about to break: Sanders would become the first Jewish candidate to win a major party presidential primary. But since that February 9 win, instead of the burst of communal pride that usually accompanies such milestones, the response from American Jews has been muted. One reason: The Vermont senator, the candidate who has come closer than any other Jew to being a major party presidential nominee, has mostly avoided discussing his Judaism. Sanders has baffled Jews by refusing to name the Israeli kibbutz where he briefly volunteered in the 1960s, sending reporters scrambling to solve the mystery. When they found the kibbutz, he wouldn't comment. In New Hampshire after his breakout win, he described himself as 'the son of a Polish immigrant,' not a Jewish one. Jewish pioneer: Bernie Sanders is the first Jewish-American White House candidate to win a primary but members of the country's Jewish community question why he is not more voluble about his background Distancing: The one major speech Bernie Sanders has offered on religion during his campaign was at Jerry Falwell's Liberty University. He sis not mention being Jewish himself At a Democratic debate, he spoke of the historic nature of 'somebody with my background' seeking the presidency, but didn't use the word 'Jewish.' A recent headline in the liberal Jewish Daily Forward newspaper read, 'We Need To Out Bernie Sanders as a Jew For His Own Good.' Rabbi James Glazier of Temple Sinai n South Burlington, Vermont, said Sanders' comments were being discussed by rabbis in the liberal Reform movement. 'What did he leave out there? He didn't say "Jewish Polish" immigrant. Reform rabbis have picked up on this big time.' Sanders' lack of religious observance is not what rankles. It has become so common for Jews to identify 'culturally' instead of religiously with the faith that the Pew Research Center, in its most recent study of the American Jewish population, used a category called 'Jews of no religion.' Michael Bloomberg, the former New York mayor, also was not religious, but he was embraced for his unwavering support of Israel and his generous donations to Jewish causes. Louis Brandeis, who in 1916 became the first Jewish justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, did not practice his faith, yet was the pride of American Jews. Brandeis went on to become a leading U.S. advocate for Zionism. But Sanders, during more than three decades in public life as a mayor, congressman and U.S. senator, has developed few relationships with Jewish groups or leaders on religious issues or on Israel. He has supported a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, but has not made Israel in any way a priority. 'I would say that he has never been one of those in Congress who was active in a Jewish caucus, who turned out for Israel, who was involved in those issues and he still isn't,' said Jonathan Sarna, an expert in American Jewish history at Brandeis University. Ironically, when Sanders gave his most religiously focused campaign speech, he underscored his distance from Judaism. It was last fall at Liberty University, the evangelical school founded by the Rev. Jerry Falwell in Lynchburg, Virginia, and he addressed the school on Rosh Hashana, or the Jewish New Year, one of the most important holidays of the year. Mayor: As mayor of Burlington, Sanders had been to one local synagogue just once, for a candidates' event. The Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic community in Burlington said he helped them erect a Hanukkah menorah Married out: In 1988, he married his second wife, Jane, who was raised Roman Catholic, just as the national intermarriage rate was climbing so high that Jewish leaders began calling it a crisis. Discussing his beliefs in the speech, he said he was 'motivated by a vision' for social justice 'which exists in all of the great religions.' But Sanders didn't say he was Jewish. Later, he stopped in at a Rosh Hashana gathering at the home of the Lynchburg mayor. The Sanders campaign did not respond to repeated requests for comment for this article. Stanley 'Huck' Gutman, former chief of staff in Sanders' Senate office, wrote in an email, 'He is an old friend, a close friend but we have very seldom, if ever, discussed religion.' Bernard is not particularly religious. He doesn't go to synagogue often. I think he probably goes to synagogue only for weddings and funerals, rather than to pray Larry Sanders, the White House hopeful's brother Sanders' life follows a familiar arc in 20th century American Jewish experience: The son of an immigrant, he grew up in the shadow of the Holocaust, which Sanders has said wiped out much of his father's family. As a child in Brooklyn, Sanders went to Hebrew school and had a bar mitzvah, but the lessons he drew from the teachings seem closer to a golden rule morality than specifically Jewish. In the presidential race, he often sums up his religious views with the phrase, 'We are in this together.' 'Being Jewish is very important to us,' his brother, Larry, said in an interview in England where he lives. 'There was no problem of debate, it was just a given in our lives, just as being Americans was a given in our lives. 'But Bernard is not particularly religious. He doesn't go to synagogue often. I think he probably goes to synagogue only for weddings and funerals, rather than to pray.' Like many young American Jews in the 1960s, Sanders worked on a kibbutz, which news organizations discovered to be Sha'ar Ha'amakim in northern Israel. Irit Drori, who now lives on the kibbutz, said no one there remembers the presidential candidate and self-described democratic socialist. 'It was a socialist kibbutz,' Drori said. 'If Mr Sanders was interested in socialism, he could find people to talk about it with here.' After moving to Vermont in the late 1960s, he eventually began his political career. But setting down roots did not mean joining a synagogue, though he sometimes would visit them. Brother: Larry Sanders says of growing up in Brooklyn: 'Being Jewish is very important to us. There was no problem of debate, it was just a given in our lives, just as being Americans was a given in our lives' Glazier said Sanders had been to Temple Sinai once for a candidates' event. The Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic community in Burlington said Sanders, as mayor, helped them overcome opposition to erecting a Hanukkah menorah on public land. In 1988, he married his second wife, Jane, who was raised Roman Catholic, just as the national intermarriage rate was climbing so high that Jewish leaders began calling it a crisis. In Vermont, where nearly 40 percent of residents say they have no particular religion, Sanders was rarely called on to discuss his faith. However, in the last couple of years, he has been facing increasing challenges about his support for Israel. In a widely viewed video of a 2014 Vermont town hall event, after the war started between Israel and Hamas, the Islamic militant group that controls Gaza, some voters demanded Sanders do more to protest Israeli bombing. The war killed more than 2,200 Palestinians in Gaza, including hundreds of civilians, and 73 people on the Israeli side. Sanders was among a small number of senators who didn't co-sponsor a resolution supporting Israel in the conflict, which passed by voice vote. Sanders said Israel 'overreacted' with the intensity of its attacks, and he called the bombing of U.N. schools 'terribly, terribly wrong'. But he also criticized Hamas for launching rockets into Israel. Israel has said Hamas is responsible for civilian casualties, since it carried out numerous attacks from residential areas in Gaza. 'I believe in a two-state solution, where Israel has the right to exist in security at the same time the Palestinians have a state of their own,' Sanders said. Last year, Sanders was the first of several senators to announce they would skip Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to Congress since President Barack Obama wasn't consulted and the speech was so close to the Israeli elections, giving the appearance the U.S. was trying to influence the outcome, he said. As a presidential candidate, Sanders said he consulted the dovish pro-Israel lobby J Street and the Arab American Institute, founded by Jim Zogby, on Mideast Policy. 'That's not exactly a balanced view of the region,' said Malcolm Hoenlein, the executive vice chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, which has not accepted J Street as a member. 'I hope he has other advisers or will take other advisers. He's never really been that identified that strongly with pro-Israel advocacy.' While Jews mull the source of Sanders' reticence about discussing his Jewish roots, they are relieved that a Jewish candidate can run without prompting an outpouring of anti-Semitism. Still, they worry that could change if he succeeds in the primaries ahead. Sarna said the candidate's religious identity is clear even if he doesn't talk about it, and therefore his success in the election should be considered a landmark moment for Jews. Five Mexican states have been put on alert after a truck carrying a container of potentially dangerous radioactive material was stolen, the interior ministry said. The National Coordination of Civil Protection issued the warning after a company in the central state of Queretaro reported that a pick-up truck carrying radioactive iridium-192 had been stolen. The ministry said the material 'can be dangerous for people if not handled safely' and could cause 'permanent or serious injury to a person who is handling or in contact with it for a short time'. Five Mexican states are on alert after the radioactive material, used for industrial radiography, was lost when a truck transporting the hazardous material was stolen Such damage could occur after contact lasting anywhere from minutes to hours, it added. Officials said the radioactive material represented a significant health risk if taken outside its container, but was not dangerous if kept sealed. The material, which is used in industrial radiography, belonged to the company Industrial Maintenance Center located in the city of San Juan del Rio. In addition to Queretaro, the states of Hidalgo, Guanajuato, San Luis Potosi and Michoacan were put on alert. Iridium-192 can cause burns, radiation sickness and permanent injury if a person comes in contact with it, and can be fatal if exposure lasts hours or days. Authorities asked that anyone who comes across the radioactive material to notify officials immediately, not touch it and stay clear of it by a 100ft perimeter. Theft of radioactive material is not uncommon in Mexico. In April of last year a container carrying iridium-192 was stolen and recovered a week later in southeastern Mexico, the fourth such theft since 2013. The thieves are generally unaware that they are stealing radioactive material and are more interested in other goods. Earlier this month it emerged ISIS terrorists are feared to have obtained similar radioactive material that could be used as a weapon in their war against the West. The Iraqi government is searching for the iridium-192, stored in a protective case the size of a aptop, after it was stolen in November from a storage facility near the southern city of Basra. Officials fear it could be used to make a so-called 'dirty bomb' - a device that combines nuclear material with conventional explosives to contaminate an area with deadly radiation. Justice Clarence Thomas stunned lawyers, reporters and others at the Supreme Court on Monday when he posed questions during an oral argument for the first time in 10 years. It was the second week the court has heard arguments since the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, Thomas' friend and fellow conservative. Thomas for years sat directly to Scalia's right. Scalia's chair is now draped in black in a tribute to his death on February 13. His questions came in case in which the court is considering placing new limits on the reach of a federal law that bans people convicted of domestic violence from owning guns. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas (pictured in 2012) has asked questions during Supreme Court arguments for the first time in 10 years. It came in a case in which the court is considering placing new limits on the reach of a federal law that bans people convicted of domestic violence from owning guns With about 10 minutes left in the hour-long session, Justice Department lawyer Ilana Eisenstein was about to sit down after answering a barrage of questions from other justices. Thomas then caught her by surprise, asking whether the violation of any other law 'suspends a constitutional right.' Thomas's unusual silence over the years has become a curiosity over the years. Thomas has previously said he relies on the written briefs and doesn't need to ask questions of the lawyers appearing in court. Thomas last asked a question in court on February 22, 2006. He has come under criticism for his silence from some who say he is neglecting his duties as a justice. The Supreme Court Justice was nominated to his position in 1991 by President George H W Bush - but his path to the bench was not easy. It was subject to a long confirmation period after testimony by a female employee alleging sexual harassment was leaked to the media. Anita Hill, a law professor, said Thomas had told her private details of his sex life, commented on scenes in pornographic movies where women had sex with animals, group sex and were raped. He was also accused of declaring someone had placed a pubic hair in his can of coca-cola. Three months after his nomination, and after extensive public debate, testimony and opinion polls, Thomas was confirmed by the Senate with a 52 to 48 vote. Silence broken: Clarence Thomas asked his first courtroom question in ten years just two weeks after the death of his close friend and fellow Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia The 10-year milestone of his courtroom silence came just days after Scalia's death. Thomas was one of only two people invited by Scalia's family to recite a prayer during the funeral Mass on Feb. 20. Few reporters showed up Monday for arguments in the first case, in which the justices considered appeals from two Maine men who say their guilty pleas for hitting their partners should not disqualify them from gun ownership. The men say the law should only cover intentional acts of abuse and not those committed in the heat of an argument. During the first 45 minutes of the argument, most of the justices appeared to favor the government's position that even reckless acts of domestic assault fall under the law. Thomas did not pose questions to Virginia Villa, the lawyer arguing on behalf of the two men. But Thomas peppered Eisenstein with several questions about Second Amendment gun rights, a topic no other justice had asked about. He noted that the law allows someone convicted of a misdemeanor assault charge to get a lifetime ban on possessing a gun 'which at least as of now results in suspension of a constitutional right.' 'The suspension is not directly related to the use of a weapon?' Thomas asked. Eisenstein said he was correct, but that Congress passed the law to prevent people accused of domestic violence from later using weapons against a family member. She noted that violating other laws can in some cases limit a person's free speech rights. Thomas then asked how long the suspension of the right to own a firearm lasts. Eisenstein said it was indefinite. In one of the cases, Stephen Voisine pleaded guilty in 2003 to simple assault after slapping his girlfriend in the face while he was intoxicated. In 2009, an anonymous caller reported that Voisine had shot a bald eagle with a rifle. He was then convicted under the gun law. suggests he told cops he had gunned victims down when they arrived at the scene in Dale City, Virginia An Army staff sergeant assigned to the Pentagon admitted that he shot killed his wife and a rookie Virginia police officer who was working her first day on the job, according to court records. An affidavit suggests Ronald Hamilton told cops he had gunned down spouse Crystal, 29, and then 29-year-old Officer Ashley Guindon when they arrived at his home on Saturday. The latest allegations were revealed after the 32-year-old was held without bond during his first court appearance. Hamilton was shackled and surrounded by six prison guards as he faced a judge for his arraignment at Prince William County General District Court via video link. Prosecutor Paul Ebert has said he'll likely seek the death penalty against Hamilton. He's charged with capital murder, first-degree murder and malicious wounding. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO Ronald Hamilton, 32, (left) is being held without bond accused of shooting dead 29-year-old Officer Ashley Guindon (right) after she answered a domestic violence call at his home on Saturday - her first day on the job He also told WUSA 9 Hamilton has a prior assault conviction in another state. By the time Guindon arrived with her field officer Jesse Hempen, 31, and ten-year police veteran David McKeown, 33, Crystal was shot dead, the affidavit states. Hamilton allegedly opened fire as soon as the officers arrived, fatally shooting Guindon and wounding the other two. The Hamiltons' 11-year-old son was in the house at the time but survived unscathed. On Sunday, police chief Stephen Hudson paid tribute to Guindon's work and gave a poignant account of the passion she showed when she interviewed for the job. Crystal Hamilton's sister also paid tribute to Guindon as she thanked the police force for their attempts to apprehend the suspect. 'Most importantly, the officer who sacrificed her life for my sister and my nephew,' she told ABC7. The suspect is an active duty Army staff sergeant assigned to the Joint Staff Support Center at the Pentagon, according to Cindy Your, a Defense Information Systems Agency spokeswoman based at Fort Meade, Maryland. The death of Ashley Guindon was just the latest tragedy to strike the family. Her father, David, committed suicide the day after he returned home from Iraq in 2004, where he served with the New Hampshire Air National Guard. He was buried with full military honors on August 26 that year. 'He came home and took his own life,' said Dorothy Guindon, Ashley's grandmother. Ashley was his only child. Ten-year veteran David McKeown, 33, (left) and eight-year veteran Jesse Hempen (right) were wounded Ashley was born in Springfield, Massachusetts. The family later moved to Merrimack, New Hampshire, according to her grandmother. 'This is really a shock to us,' Dorothy Guindon said. 'Ashley was such a nice person.' Officer Brandon Carpenter, at the county's adult detention center, says Hamilton is being held without bond at the jail on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer, first-degree murder, two counts of malicious assault and two counts of use of a firearm during a felony. Hamilton is scheduled to be arraigned Monday morning. Prince William County Commonwealth's Attorney Paul Ebert told The Associated Press on Sunday morning that the gunman's wife was the victim in the domestic incident. He did not provide her name. The shooting occurred Saturday evening at Hamilton's home in Woodbridge, where neighbors say he lived with his wife and their son. The fatal domestic dispute took place at the home (pictured on Sunday) in Dale City, Virginia The Hamiltons' 11-year-old son was in the house (pictured on Sunday) at the time but survived unscathed More than 100 patrol cars lined the roads outside Inova Fairfax Hospital early Sunday morning Officers received a call around 5.30pm Woodbridge, about 30 miles southwest of the nation's capital, about a 'verbal argument,' Perok said. A picture of Guindon was posted to the department's Twitter page on Friday with a tweet that read, 'Welcome Officers Steven Kendall & Ashley Guindon who were sworn in today & begin their shifts this weekend. Be Safe!' Guindon had a degree in aeronautics from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University and a master's degree from George Washington University in forensic science. She served in the military from 2007 to 2013 as a corporal in the U.S. Marine Corps. Prince William County, where Woodbridge is located, is a suburb 30 minutes outside Washington, D.C., and has a relatively low crime rate. Guindon had been a county police officer a few years ago and had left and returned to the force, Corey Stewart, chairman of the Prince William County Board of Supervisors, said in a phone interview with The Associated Press on Saturday night. He did not know the exact dates of when she started and left, he said. Stewart also said there was a child in the house during the incident who was not harmed. At Inova Fairfax Hospital, where the three officers were flown by helicopter after the shooting, more than 100 patrol cars lined the roads outside early Sunday morning to stand vigil and escort Guindon's body to the medical examiner. The man accused of killing three people at a Planned Parenthood clinic has continued to defend the shooting spree, calling it a 'righteous crusade'. In a phone interview from jail, Robert Dear, 57, told KRDO-TV that his victims were in a 'war zone', where 'babies were being killed' and that they were simply casualties in that war. He added: 'Are you gonna name the hundred million babies that were killed, that nobody talks about, nobody represents them, they have no voice, but yet our Constitution says we have the right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness?' Scroll down for video Robert Dear made the cold confessions during a telephone interview from jail to KRDO-TV in Colorado Springs The reporter challenged Dear about the guilt he may feel, but Dear replied: 'I don't have any guilt! I am in a war!' Dear is charged with first degree murder for killing university police officer Garret Swasey, Iraq war veteran Ke'Arre M Stewart, and mother-of-two Jennifer Markovsky on at a Planned Parenthood clinic in Colorado Springs on November 27 2015. Nine others were also injured in the brutal attacks. When the KRDO reporter challenged Dear about the guilt he might feel, he replied: 'I don't have any guilt! I am in a war!' And when asked if he valued life, he simply said: 'Of course! That's why I did it! I killed three and I saved 3,000.' Dear, pictured above in court in December, lived in a trailer far off the grid on a plot of land with no power or sewers. He is charged with the murder of Garret Swasey Ke'Arre M Stewart and Jennifer Markovsky Mental competency under question: Dan May, 4th Judicial District Attorney, leaves the competecy hearing at El Paso County Courthouse last Wednesday Speaking to KRDO, Dear also referred to his 'hero' Paul Hill - who was convicted and put to death for killing an abortion doctor and bodyguard in Florida. Dear said his was an 'inspirational story' and added: 'He gave it all up to save babies'. Last month, Dear said that his 'problems' had began while watching the Branch Davidian siege in Texas. He told CBS Denver: 'It started 22 years ago in Waco... I'm a Christian and so when they burned up those Christians and 17 little kids and everything else I was pretty upset about it and I called the radio station.' Back in business: The Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains reopened on February 15, nearly three months after the deadly rampage Last week, a mental competency hearing Dear was delayed until next month. Officials said last Wednesday the report on Robert Dears mental state was not ready and a new hearing was set for March 23. A judge ordered the exam after the 57-year-old Dear announced that he wanted to fire his public defenders and represent himself. The evaluation will show whether he is mentally capable of making that decision. Dear has previously vowed not to cooperate with the mental health evaluation. In previous courtroom outbursts, he declared himself a warrior for the babies and said he was guilty. Defense attorneys raised doubts about his competency. Prosecutors say his outbursts show an understanding of the case against him. Two racist thugs have been jailed for killing a grandfather as he walked to morning prayers. Dale Jones and Damien Hunt, both 30, were found guilty of the unprovoked killing of Mushin Ahmed and have been jailed for a combined term of 46 years behind bars. Mr Ahmed was in traditional dress and walking to early-morning prayers at his local mosque in Rotherham, South Yorkshire when the pair attacked him on August 10 last year. Dale Jones (left) and Damien Hunt (right) have been jailed for killing a grandfather on his way to prayers Jones had followed Mr Ahmed repeatedly calling him a 'groomer' before him and Hunt launched into their attack on the helpless pensioner near a bus stop, a court heard. The court heard Hunt was the first to punch Mr Ahmed to the ground before Jones began kicking and stamping on the elderly man. There were at least three 'really heavy stamps' on Mr Ahmed's face in the sustained and brutal attack, the court was told. Jones and Hunt then fled the scene, leaving a bloodied but still conscious Mr Ahmed lying on the ground. He died in hospital 11 days later due to brain injuries. Handing Jones a life sentence with a minimum of 32 years, Justice Stephen Males QC branded him a 'racist thug' . Judge Mr Justice Males told Sheffield Crown Court Jones had not shown 'the slightest remorse for the suffering you have caused to Mr Ahmed and his family'. He said: 'It is a shocking thing in modern Britain that a man should be attacked and beaten and kicked to death just because of the colour of his skin, but there is no doubt that this is what Mr Ahmed suffered.' Jones, of Rotherham, was found guilty of murder last week. Hunt, also of Rotherham, was cleared of murder but found guilty of manslaughter on Monday. Mushin Ahmed, 81, was much-respected in Rotherham and was targeted in an unprovoked attack The pensioner suffered severe head injuries before his attackers fled. He died 11 days later in hospital Hunt was for 14 years for his role in the attack, which came a year after an official report found at least 1,400 children were subjected to appalling sexual abused in the town, predominantly at the hands of men of Pakistani-heritage. The court had heard a member of the public found Mr Ahmed at around 5.25am on August 10 last year and immediately flagged down a passing police car. DNA was recovered by detectives which matched Damien Hunt and CCTV footage recovered from the local community showed a group of men in the area with Jones and Hunt among them. Detective Chief Inspector Victoria Short, of South Yorkshire Police, said: 'This brutal and unprovoked assault sent shockwaves through the local community, where Mr Ahmed was well-liked and highly regarded. 'His family and friends have been left absolutely devastated by his death yet they have conducted themselves admirably and with tremendous strength throughout our inquiry, which should be commended. 'The pair refused to take responsibility for their crime, putting Mr Ahmed's family through the further distress of a court trial where they had to hear in detail what happened to their loved one.' The attack happened in Rotherham, where a year earlier a report found hundreds of children had been abused Speaking about Mr Ahmed's 'horrific injuries' caused by the two men, Det Ins Short said: 'Jones in his anger stamped on Mr Ahmed's head so hard that we were able to recover a shoe print from his skin - this extreme violence is nothing short of sickening and highlights just how dangerous these individuals are. 'Hunt and Jones have never given an explanation for their own vicious actions that evening, but the court heard how Mr Ahmed was assaulted because of the colour of his skin, a fact that is as disturbing as it is despicable. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It's my pleasure to appear before you and the Committee today on behalf of Apple. We appreciate your invitation and the opportunity to be part of the discussion on this important issue which centers on the civil liberties at the foundation of our country. I want to repeat something we have said since the beginning that the victims and families of the San Bernardino attacks have our deepest sympathies and we strongly agree that justice should be served. Apple has no sympathy for terrorists. We have the utmost respect for law enforcement and share their goal of creating a safer world. We have a team of dedicated professionals that are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to assist law enforcement. When the FBI came to us in the immediate aftermath of the San Bernardino attacks, we gave all the information we had related to their investigation. And we went beyond that by making Apple engineers available to advise them on a number of additional investigative options. But we now find ourselves at the center of an extraordinary circumstance. The FBI has asked a Court to order us to give them something we dont have. To create an operating system that does not exist because it would be too dangerous. They are asking for a backdoor into the iPhone specifically to build a software tool that can break the encryption system which protects personal information on every iPhone. As we have told them and as we have told the American public building that software tool would not affect just one iPhone. It would weaken the security for all of them. In fact, just last week Director Comey agreed that the FBI would likely use this precedent in other cases involving other phones. District Attorney Vance has also said he would absolutely plan to use this on over 175 phones. We can all agree this is not about access to just one iPhone. The FBI is asking Apple to weaken the security of our products. Hackers and cyber criminals could use this to wreak havoc on our privacy and personal safety. It would set a dangerous precedent for government intrusion on the privacy and safety of its citizens. Hundreds of millions of law-abiding people trust Apples products with the most intimate details of their daily lives photos, private conversations, health data, financial accounts, and information about the user's location as well as the location of their friends and families. Some of you might have an iPhone in your pocket right now, and if you think about it, there's probably more information stored on that iPhone than a thief could steal by breaking into your house. The only way we know to protect that data is through strong encryption. Every day, over a trillion transactions occur safely over the Internet as a result of encrypted communications. These range from online banking and credit card transactions to the exchange of healthcare records, ideas that will change the world for the better, and communications between loved ones. The US government has spent tens of millions of dollars through the Open Technology Fund and other US government programs to fund strong encryption. The Review Group on Intelligence and Communications Technology, convened by President Obama, urged the US government to fully support and not in any way subvert, undermine, weaken, or make vulnerable generally available commercial software. Encryption is a good thing, a necessary thing. We have been using it in our products for over a decade. As attacks on our customers data become increasingly sophisticated, the tools we use to defend against them must get stronger too. Weakening encryption will only hurt consumers and other well-meaning users who rely on companies like Apple to protect their personal information. Todays hearing is titled Balancing Americans Security and Privacy. We believe we can, and we must, have both. Protecting our data with encryption and other methods preserves our privacy and it keeps people safe. The American people deserve an honest conversation around the important questions stemming from the FBIs current demand: Do we want to put a limit on the technology that protects our data, and therefore our privacy and our safety, in the face of increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks? Should the FBI be allowed to stop Apple, or any company, from offering the American people the safest and most secure product it can make? Should the FBI have the right to compel a company to produce a product it doesn't already make, to the FBIs exact specifications and for the FBIs use? We believe that each of these questions deserves a healthy discussion, and any decision should be made after a thoughtful and honest consideration of the facts. Most importantly, the decisions should be made by you and your colleagues as representatives of the people, rather than through a warrant request based on a 220 year- old-statute. At Apple, we are ready to have this conversation. The feedback and support we're hearing indicate to us that the American people are ready, too. We feel strongly that our customers, their families, their friends and their neighbors will be better protected from thieves and terrorists if we can offer the very best protections for their data. And at the same time, the freedoms and liberties we all cherish will be more secure. Advertisement A graveyard on the Greek holiday island of Lesbos is approaching its maximum capacity, containing many of the 400 people who had died so far this year attempting to cross from Turkey to the European Union. Every day more than 2,000 desperate migrants attempt the treacherous journey across the Mediterranean sea in heavily overloaded and unseaworthy boats. Some exchange their life savings to make the trip. According to the United Nations High Commission for Refugees, 71,500 migrants have arrived in Lesbos since the beginning of the year with the island struggling to cope with the humanitarian crisis. An unnamed man was buried in this grave, the 221st victim whose name could not be determined by authorities on the island of Lesbos More than 400 people have died attempting the treacherous crossing since the beginning of the year according to the UNHCR Greek authorities are using a 'Bobcat' shovel loader to clear away the ground in preparation for new graves as the death toll increases In the Lesbos graveyard, many of the names of the dead are not recorded. Instead a simple white stone engraved with 'unknown man' or 'unknown woman' marks the victim's final resting place. Each of the unnamed victims are numbered and the date of their death is recorded. The UNHCR is providing daily updates on the scale of the crisis. According to a briefing paper: 'The majority of those arriving in January 2016 were women and children. 'In Greece, following a period of rough seas and fewer numbers of arrivals, when weather conditions improved, arrival figures rose to over 4,600 and 4,800 people on 17-18 February respectively, marking the highest arrival rate since 9 January.' The Greek Minister for Defence Panos Kammenos has sanctioned special refugee hotspots on Lesbos, Chios and Leros for temporarily housing migrants before they continue the journey northwards. However, ferry companies on the Greek islands have been told by authorities to limit the number of refugees they are carrying to the mainland as many thousands of people are sleeping rough. One Afghan migrant, Muchtar Ahman, who is living in a park in Athens said: 'We hoped to get to Germany. But when we came here the Macedonian borders closed. We are homeless.' Many of the graves in the cemetery are marked with unnamed man or woman when authorities are unable to identify the victims Some 2,000 migrants a day attempt the treacherous journey, such as this woman who arrived safely on Lesbos earlier today The refugees are attempting the crossing on these massively overcrowded and unsafe inflatable boats, pictured The boats are so overcrowded that they are easily swamped by a small swell, an ever-present danger at this time of year Almost all of the migrants are boarding the people smuggling boats in Turkey. An estimated 850,000 crossed into Greece by sea last year. The Turkish government has announced a clampdown on the people smuggling gangs since agreeing a deal with the European Union in November. During 2015, Turkey did very little to prevent the 850,000 migrants from attempting the dangerous crossing. The Turkish government has managed to secure a 2.35 billion deal with the European Union to counter the traffickers. They are also seeking the easing the visa requirements for Turkish citizens seeking to visit Europe. The government in Ankara also wants to fast-track EU membership talks. Turkish deputy prime minister Numan Kurtulmus said: 'There has been a visible decrease in the numbers of migrants crossing illegally. To reduce the numbers to zero, however, is impossible. No country has the power to do so. 'We know the organizers' crossing points and we are taking extremely effective measures against them," Kurtulmus said. "With our strong measures, the numbers will (decrease) further.' The UNHCR said more than 120,000 refugees have arrived in Greece this year by crossing the Mediterranean by sea on dangerous boats Turkey has said it is clamped down in the illegal trafficking gangs and has raided workshops manufacturing the dangerous boats Some of the gangs are making 'fake' life vests and selling them to desperate refugees made from materials such as cardboard There are more than three million refugees in Turkey, many of whom want to make the crossing into Europe despite the deadly danger There are currently an estimated three million refugees in Turkey, many of whom have fled the conflicts in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan. Kurtulmus claimed the Turkish navy has been incredibly active in stopping the migrants. He claimed 156,000 people were stopped attempting to cross into Europe with 91,000 intercepted at sea. He said 4,800 people smugglers had been arrested. Turkey has also allowed Syrians to apply for work visa as well as offering 350,000 children places in school. In a dramatic police operation last month, authorities raided workshops in the Aegean coastal city of Izmir and elsewhere that were manufacturing defective lifejackets that were being sold to migrants. More than 1,200 lifejackets were seized. Earlier this month, police also raided three factories in Izmir that were producing poor-quality inflatable boats to smuggle migrants to Greece. As it tries to prevent the flow of migrants to Europe, Turkey is also constructing a wall along parts of its 560-mile border with Syria, mainly to prevent infiltrations by ISIS. In a reversal of its long-standing open door-policy for refugees, Turkey recently closed its border to tens of thousands of Syrians fleeing a Russian-backed Syrian government onslaught around northern Syrian city of Aleppo. Turkish authorities decided instead to help the displaced by expanding and setting up new camps close to the border in Syria. Sylvie Guillaume, a vice president of the European Parliament, told reporters during a visit that Turkey and the EU must work together to crack down on the smugglers by tracking their finances. She said: 'It's a flourishing business, It is an industry in which people are making millions on the backs of people who then die at sea. Financial surveillance and inspection mechanisms need to be developed" to uncover these gangs.' Volunteers assist the refugees as soon as they make it to land following their dangerous voyage across the Mediterranean In court: Declan Garrity, 24, outside Manhattan Criminal Court on Tuesday An Irish banker living in New York appeared in court last night (Mon) accused of torturing his roommate's cat as it emerged he faces up to four years in jail. Declan Garrity, 24, appeared anxious as he appeared before a judge at the Manhattan Criminal Court accused of battering the 8lbs animal in an 'especially depraved or sadistic manner' He had shaven off his beard and wore a smart suit for the brief hearing in which he was given an order of protection banning him from contacting the cat's owner. Garrity, a financial adviser with Barclays in their New York office, is accused of ripping out the nails of black, white and brown Lucy - and setting her tail on fire. His roommate claims that the abuse went on for three months and that when she asked him about it he told her an iron fell on her pet. X-ray pictures of the car, showing the extent of the injuries, were also released today, ABC7 News reported. Garrity, from Omagh, County Tyrone, appeared in court on Monday having been bailed for $5,000 after his arrest on Thursday morning at 7.50am. He has been charged with two counts of aggravated cruelty to animals, a felony offense which carries a prison sentence of between one-and-a-third to four years. Recovering: Lucy, seen before she was injured, can purr again. A GoFundMe page has been set up to help her owner deal with the cost of the veterinary bills to nurse her back to health Injuries: These X-ray images show the extent of the fractures suffered by Lucy Accused: Declan Garrity was accompanied by an attorney after appearing at Manhattan Criminal Court, New York, to answer felony charges of aggravated animal cruelty Garrity, who is thought to be in the US on a work visa, is also accused of one count of torturing and injuring animals. Three-year-old Lucy has been in intensive care and was being fed by a tube since her teeth were broken too, but is now said to be recovering and has begun to purr again. During the court hearing Garrity was told by Judge Joanne Watters that he could not have any contact with the owner of the cat, who has publicly only given her name as Danielle, including texts and emails. He will be allowed to return to the apartment they had shared on New York's Upper East Side for two hours on Tuesday to collect his belongings but will first have to stop by a local police precinct to have an officer escort him. Garrity spoke only to confirm that he understood before being led out of court where he declined to answer any questions. Garrity is said to have tricked Danielle by telling her that he grew up around cats so that he would ask her to move into last November. However whilst she was at work in her nursing job he is said to have attacked her pet. Garrity is said to have abused Lucy until the morning of February 20 when Danielle finished her shift and came home to find her cat cowering in her carrier. Her back foot was bent in the wrong direction and she was missing fur, it is alleged. According to the criminal complaint, Danielle went to the police and vet Dr Robert Reisman carried out an inspection of Lucy. He found she had recently suffered a number of injuries within the last few days. They were a dislocated right tibia bone, a fractured right tibia, broken teeth, severe inflammation to her mouth, burns to the tail, anal area, right thigh and left thigh. Dr Reisman also noted that Lucy had broken claws and what the complaint described as 'severe muscle injury'. Danielle has said that only then did she realize that Lucy's odd behavior in recent months had been due to Garrity allegedly abusing her. Animal lover: Declan Garrity had allegedly convinced his roommate that he had grown up around cats so that he would ask her to move into last November. According to the criminal complaint, since November Lucy has been acting strangely including hiding in Danielle's bedroom closet, not eating and 'constantly licking her paws'. Lucy's pelvis was broken on January 25 and Garrity is said to have told Danielle that an iron fell on her whilst she was at work. Danielle, 29, has so far spent $12,000 on veterinary bills for Lucy and has set up a Gofundme page to help pay for them, raising $2,500 so far. She has said that Lucy was 'noticeably staying away' from Garrity but she never suspected what he was allegedly doing. She said: 'I thought it was weird. I was like: "How can we get the cat to like him?" Your mind doesn't go straight to: 'He's doing something to my cat". 'It's nauseating. I've been disgusted with everything...I thought he was the best roommate I ever had. It's bizarre'. According to his LinkedIn profile, Garrity attended the Christian Brothers Grammar School in Omagh and studied at the Queens University in Belfast. He then attended the Hult International Business School in Boston, and joined Barclays in New York as a financial analyst in October 2014. His LinkedIn profile says that he has done volunteering in Russia, South Africa and Mozambique. He describes himself as a 'market orientated professional' who prides himself on his 'tight work ethic'. The 14-year-old who allegedly shot four of his classmates inside his school cafeteria on Monday morning has been named as James Austin Hancock The 14-year-old who allegedly shot four of his classmates inside his school cafeteria on Monday morning has been named as James Austin Hancock. Hancock was arrested after allegedly bursting into the lunchroom at Madison Jr/Sr High School near Middletown, Ohio, and opening fire on his fellow students. Two boys, aged 15 and 14, were shot and another boy and girl, both aged 14, were struck by flying shrapnel. All four are expected to recover. Hancock is charged with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of assault, one of inducing panic and one of making terror threats, police said. Police told ABC 9 they had identified a potential motive but did not release any further information. The gun involved was .380 caliber handgun, police said. The high school was placed on lockdown shortly after 11.30am this morning after the cafeteria shooting. Hancock was arrested outside the school minutes later and is reported to have surrendered to the police. The students who were shot, Cooper Caffrey, 14, and Cameron Smith, 15, were airlifted to Miami Valley Dayton hospital, where they were listed in stable condition. Brant Murray and Katherine Doucette, both 14 years old, sustained minor injuries in the melee. Katherine wrote on her Facebook page she 'was grazed by a bullet nothing serious'. Parents run towards Madison Jr/Sr High School near Middletown, Ohio, after the shooting on Monday morning Hancock is charged with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of assault, one of inducing panic and one of making terror threats following the shooting at the high school All four victims suffered non life-threatening injuries, according to school officials. Their parents have been notified of the shooting. Students who were in the cafeteria at the time said they did not immediately recognize the sounds as gunshots. Some students ran outside to a field before being brought back inside Zayd Ahmed, a junior at Madison, told the Cincinnati Enquirer he was in the library printing a homework assignment when he heard gunfire in the nearby lunchroom. The 11th-grader said he and other students sought refuge in a storage closet. A sheriff's deputy stationed in the school had just been in the cafeteria, sheriff Richard Jones said. Jones said the 14-year-old gunman fled the the scene and dropped the weapon used in the shooting, a .380-caliber handgun, but he was apprehended near the campus and taken in for questioning. Hancock was arrested outside the school minutes later and is reported to have surrendered to the police. Pictured, a mother hugs her children outside the school Students who were in the cafeteria at the time said they did not immediately recognize the sounds as gunshots. Pictured, a mother hugs her daughter All four victims suffered non life-threatening injuries, according to school officials. Pictured, a parent hugs their child following the shooting Fox 19 obtained a transcript of the first 911 call from the school after the shooting on Monday morning. 'I'm at Madison High School, there's a shooting. A kid brought a gun and he started shooting people,' the panicked caller says. 'How many people did he shoot?' the dispatcher replies. 'I'm not sure. He just pulled out a gun and started shooting.' 'Do you know who he is?' 'Yeah, his name is Austin Hancock.' 'Austin Hancock?' 'Yeah.' 'Ok. We're getting out there. Do you know how old he is?' 'He's 13 or 14 years old.' The Butler County sheriff asked people to stay away from the school until the scene was cleared, and nearby roads were blocked. All students were dismissed at around 1pm after law enforcement officials lifted the lockdown. Parents were allowed to the high school to pick up their children from school. Advertisement Vice President Joe Biden's younger brother has put his idyllic off-the-grid Florida holiday home on the market for a cool $5.995 million. James Biden Jr, a construction firm owner, and his wife Sara, a lawyer, snapped up the five-acre estate, which they call 'the Biden bungalow' in December 2013 for $2.5 million, and added a $1 million renovation to make it completely self-sufficient. But now, as they plan to spend family holidays closer to their Philadelphia home, the couple have decided to let it go. The five-bedroom main house is propped up on stilts overlooking the water on Keewaydin Island, just outside Naples. This is the idyllic Caribbean-style home on stilts where James Biden Jr and his wife Sara have vacationed since December 2013 Inside, the open-plan living space has a sheltered atmosphere with dark wooden walls and light trickling through the paneled windows James is the vice president's younger brother. Joe is the oldest of their four siblings, followed by his sister Valerie, then James, then the youngest brother Frank. They are pictured together here at an ice cream store in West Virginia during the 2008 election campaign Inside, the open-plan living space has a sheltered atmosphere with dark wooden walls and light trickling through the paneled windows. A unique water fountain made up of three green stone sea turtles acts as the center piece between the breakfast bar and the sofa space. With its own water filtration system and solar panels to power WiFi and multiple televisions, the off-grid home is entirely self-sufficient, Naples Daily News reports. There is also a one-bedroom guesthouse. According to Naples Daily News, which got an exclusive look inside the property, the guesthouse only has three walls, with one side adventurously open to the neighboring forest, and a tiki bar. 'It's a magical place, and I love it and come out often,' Sara Biden told the newspaper. 'But right now it's not ideal for all of us together.' Keewaydin Island is known for its southern tip, where people come together on boats to enjoy the scenery Uniquely, the island has no cars, roads, or bridges after residents in the 1960s opposed a motion to industrialize Here, James is pictured with his brother Joe, his sister-in-law Dr Jill and Dick Cheney during a swearing-in ceremony in January 2009 'We bought it as a family vacation home and we had a lot of really meaningful vacations there. 'But some things have changed in our lives, and were realizing that well be able to have more quality vacation time somewhere closer to where we all live.' At $6 million, it is the most expensive home listed on the island. Keewaydin Island is known for its southern tip, where people come together on boats to enjoy the scenery. Uniquely, the island has no cars, roads, or bridges after residents in the 1960s opposed a motion to industrialize. James is the vice president's younger brother. Joe is the oldest of their four siblings, followed by his sister Valerie, then James, then the youngest brother Frank. Thousands of children are facing long journeys to secondary schools in other areas as councils reveal huge shortfalls in the number of available places this year. Data revealed under the Freedom of Information Act reveals the top ten most over-subscribed councils have 10,000 more children than there are places for this Septembers entry. The situation is likely to mean many children will be forced to travel long distances to schools in other areas, while others may be crammed into plus-size year-groups. Head teachers are grappling with a shortage of places caused by a baby boom fuelled by high migration. Data revealed under the Freedom of Information Act reveals the top ten most over-subscribed councils have 10,000 more children than there are places for this Septembers entry More than half a million families will be sent notifications tomorrow on which secondary school their child will enter this autumn. One in six pupils nationally are expected to miss out on their first choice, while in some parts of London around half are likely to be disappointed. This year, the most oversubscribed council appears to be Hounslow in West London, which has received 5,151 applications for only 2,907 places a shortfall of 2,244. In Buckinghamshire the shortfall is 1,983, while Trafford it is 1,213, in Kent it is 1,025, in Haringey, London, it is 992 and in Stockport it is 688. Other oversubscribed councils include Solihull, Leicester, Calderdale, Dudley, Birmingham, Bury and the London boroughs of Ealing, Merton and Waltham Forest. The figures, collated by Education Law at law firm Simpson Millar, also showed only 3 per cent of appeals against allocated places are successful in some oversubscribed areas. Justine Roberts, chief executive of Mumsnet, said the admissions system appeared to be seriously creaky in many areas including London, Bristol, East Sussex and Birmingham. She added: Stories are abound of some families cheating the system, which only adds to people's anxiety and sense of injustice. Many Mumsnet users say that their children can't get into schools that are a few hundred metres away from their front doors. Justine Roberts, chief executive of Mumsnet Figures released by the New Schools Network, which campaigns on behalf of free schools, show non-religious parents in many areas are especially restricted on choice. It found 62 areas, including parts of Manchester, Liverpool and London, where the majority of schools rate good or outstanding by Ofsted are faith-based schools. In North Liverpool and Westminster more than three-quarters of the best school places are in faith schools. Director Nick Timothy said the findings showed the need to open more new free schools. The Government has said it pumped 5 billion into creating half a million new places over the last parliament and has committed a further 7 billion over the next six years. Matt Richards, of legal advice firm schoolappeals.com, said that more families are now willing to take action and appeal if they do not get a place at a favoured school. A few years ago out of 10 phone calls to us, maybe two would pay for some help. Now it's more like 50 per cent. Last year, there were 54,600 appeals against school allocations - 3.7 per cent of the total number of admissions to state schools. Just over a fifth of the appeals actually heard by a panel were decided in favour of the parents. In her annual report, chief schools adjudicator Dr Elizabeth Passmore warned that there has been a substantial increase in offers being pulled due to fraudulent applications, with the numbers up by more than 50 per cent in just 12 months. Fraudulent applications could involve parents providing the address of a relative - such as a grandparent - living closer to a favoured school, or renting a property near a particular school in order to ensure their child is in the catchment area. In August, it was revealed almost 162,000 children lost out on their first choice of primary or secondary school last year an increase of 8,000 on the previous year. Across the country 4,678 applications did not receive any offer of a school place. Schools Minister, Nick Gibb, said: We want every parent to be able to send their children to a good local school. Despite rising pupil numbers the vast majority of parents are able to do so. Claims that a serving woman police officer had sex on the balcony of a city centre bar during a reunion party are being investigated by Greater Manchester Police. Several formal complaints have been made via the force's whistle-blower hotline and to the Professional Standards Branch, which investigates alleged misconduct. The force says it is carrying out an assessment and have yet to find any evidence - although it is urging anyone with information to get in touch. The incident is alleged to have taken place at the Rain Bar in Bridgewater Street, Manchester It is alleged the officer had sex with a former officer at the Rain Bar in Great Bridgewater Street. A room was used for a reunion of serving and retired officers from the South Manchester division. One witness, a serving officer, said: 'It was a police reunion on February 12. It was in the room upstairs, which was hired for a private function. 'There is a balcony by the side of the bar, with an all-glass window looking onto it. It was about 11pm-ish. Two officers at the bar were all over each other. Then they went outside onto the balcony. A room in the bar was hosting a reunion of serving and retired officers from South Manchester division 'While they were having sex, a member of the bar staff went outside to collect glasses and must have seen them. 'When the man came back into the room he said 'I hope you all enjoyed that. It was seen by a large number of people. One group had a look and then another. People could not believe what they were seeing.' The reunion was attended by about 60 people. In a statement GMP said: 'GMP's Professional Standards Branch has received information regarding an incident at a city centre bar. 'Officers are carrying out an assessment, which includes speaking to bar staff and people present at the event as well as viewing CCTV footage, to establish if anything occurred that would require further investigation. 'While there is no evidence of this incident occurring at this stage, we would encourage anyone who witnessed anything that could be relevant to call Professional Standards. 'We expect our officers and staff to uphold the highest professional and personal standards, even when off duty, and if this incident is proved to have happened it would be completely unacceptable. 'That is why we are continuing to make a number of enquiries and will take appropriate action if it becomes necessary.' An imam in Denmark has sparked outrage after being caught on camera preaching that women who commit adultery should be stoned to death. Abu Bilal Ismail was secretly filmed while giving a lecture on the appropriate punishment for cheating wives and girlfriends at the Grimhoj Mosque in the city of Aarhus. Broadcast on local TV2, Ismail says: 'If a married or divorced woman engages in fornication, and she is not a virgin, she should be stoned to death. An imam in Denmark has sparked outrage after being caught on camera preaching that women who commit adultery should be stoned to death. Abu Bilal Ismail (pictured) was secretly filmed while giving a lecture He added: 'If someone violates their marriage, either man or woman, they commit adultery and their blood is thus halal and they should be killed by stoning. 'If the woman is a virgin, the punishment is whipping.' The imam is also seen advocating an eye-for-an-eye policy and saying: 'If someone kills a Muslim, then they should be killed.' He tells his pupils that if anyone abandoned their religion they, too, should be killed. In July 2014, Ismail again sparked controversy after another video appeared of him calling upon God to 'destroy the Zionist Jews.' The latest footage has now led to renewed calls for the Danish Mosque to be closed down. He gave the lecture at the Grimhoj Mosque in the city of Aarhus on the appropriate punishment for cheating wives and girlfriends. He tells his pupils that if anyone abandoned their religion they, too, should be killed In September 2014, it made international headlines after coming out in support of terrorist group ISIS. Social Democrats spokesman Dan Jorgensen told TV2: 'This is deeply, deeply unacceptable. That there are even people like this that have these kinds of ideas is insane.' And Marcus Knuth from the ruling Venstre party told the broadcaster: 'What is so shocking is that there are so many cases involving this mosque and that they just keep coming. That is almost the worst thing that they haven't learned anything and still practise these types of things and encourage this Stone Age behaviour.' Halle Merrill (pictured), her seven-year-old sister and another seven-year-old girl were buried under several feet of snow that slid off a cabin's roof A two-year-old girl died Friday night after she and two other children were buried under snow at a ski resort in Idaho. Halle Merrill, her seven-year-old sister and another seven-year-old girl were buried under several feet of snow and large chunks of ice that slid off a cabin's roof. Fremont County Sheriff Len Humphries said it took more than 30 minutes to locate Halle. All of the children were flown to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical, where Halle died late Friday night. Robert Clayton, a lifelong friend of Halle's parents who now lives in Utah, set up a Fundly campaign to help the family. 'Our community wanted to do something to show our support of this amazing family,' Clayton told East Idaho News. 'The fund was a collective desire of many family and friends that wished to express the love we have for Halle and her family.' Clayton wrote on the Fundly page that he wanted to give 'Chris and Cindy (Halle's parents) the opportunity to have one less burden on their plate'. He also said he will be opening a bank account in Halle's honor and the money collected from the campaign will be directly deposited into the account. The fundraiser has raised more than $11,000 as of Monday afternoon. Halle Merrill died and two other children were injured in a 'freak accident' at a cabin (pictured) at the Mack's Inn Resort in Idaho Friday The cabin belonged to the girls' grandfather, but the girls' parents were present when the accident occurred, according to police. Halle died and the two seven-year-old girls were injured when snow slid off the roof of a cabin (pictured) Chunks of snow and ice (pictured) slid off the cabin roof and buried the children. Fremont County Sheriff Len Humphries said the children were all unconscious when they were found The cabin belonged to the girls' grandfather, but the girls' parents were present when the accident occurred, according to police. Both seven-year-olds remain in the hospital and they're in fair condition, according to KTLA. All three children were airlifted after the accident from the cabin at Upper Teton Avenue. Halle died at 10.11pm Friday. Humphries said it took more than half an hour to locate the children, who were all unconscious when they were found. 'This was a freak accident. It was heart wrenching for the dispatchers and EMTs and firemen and everyone who responded,' Humphries told East Idaho News. The sheriff said the two seven-year-olds were revived at the scene of the accident. The children have not been identified. This picture shows parts of the snow and ice that hit the three children Friday evening in Idaho Labour has launched an investigation into claims that some of the party's youth activists were bullied into voting for a Jeremy Corbyn ally for a key position in the party, it was announced tonight. MPs called for an inquiry after text messages showed officials from the Unite union ordered Labour members in their teens and early 20s to elect hard-Left candidate James Elliott to the party's ruling executive - and demanded to inspect their ballot papers. Tonight the party said it was broadening its existing investigation into claims of anti-Semitism at Oxford University's Labour club to include the allegations of intimidation in the youth elections, which took place over the weekend at the party's annual youth conference in Scarborough. Jeremy Corbyn (pictured at a CND rally yesterday) faced calls from MPs in his party to investigate claims of bullying by Unite officials. Tonight the party announced it was widening its existing investigation into claims of anti-Semitism to the intimidation allegations in its youth elections It will be overseen by Baroness Royall, the former leader of Labour peers in the House of Lords. Despite the activities of Unite and the Corbyn supporters group Momentum to get Mr Elliott elected, he narrowly lost the vote to moderate candidate Jasmin Beckett, a working-class student from Liverpool. Announcing the investigation tonight, a Labour party spokesperson said: 'The Labour party takes all allegations of anti-Semitism, racism, bullying, intimidation and candidate misconduct very seriously. 'Baroness Jan Royall is currently leading an investigation into the conduct of individual Young Labour Party members. 'Baroness Royall will consider all allegations and all relevant evidence.' Mr Elliott, a student at Oxford University, is a controversial figure who worked on Mr Corbyn's leadership bid. James Elliott (pictured) narrowly lost out in his bid to be elected to the National Executive Committee. He is at the centre of anti-Semitism claims at Oxford University's Labour Club. He denies any involvement (Twitter/JFGElliott) Jade Botterill tweeted that Unite officials had followed young members into toilets intimidating them into voting for the hard-left candidate James Elliott A pro-Palestinian campaigner who has written articles railing against 'Zionists', he is active in the University's Labour Club which is being investigated following anti-Semitism claims. He is one of two Labour activists being investigated over claims from the group's co-chairman, Alex Chalmers, who quit earlier this month after complaining that many of its members 'have some kind of problem with Jews'. Mr Elliott denies any involvement. He is a third-year history student at St Edmund Hall at Oxford University who helped to write Mr Corbyn's youth manifesto. Centrist Labour MPs are relieved that Mr Elliott lost. His election to the 33-member National Executive Committee containing MPs, trade union representatives and others could have swung the balance to Mr Corbyn's supporters, who want to empower party members to decide policy over issues such as Trident renewal. Teenage Labour member Zac Harvey posted a text message exchange (pictured) with Unite official Charlotte Upton in which she said: 'I need you to send me a picture of your Unite ballot paper with James Elliott selected' and said it was 'not acceptable' for him to refuse Zac Harvey later published texts that he says proves Unite officials attempted to bully activists into voting for James Elliott (Twitter/WelshYoungLab) Birmingham MP Jess Phillips tweeted that she was concerned by 'reports of nasty bullying' at the Young Labour conference in Scarborough today and told young activists who contacted her that she would raise the issue with the party on Monday. Fellow Labour MP Ian Austin added: 'Things seem to have got out of hand and I'm sure the party will want to look into it.' Teenage Labour member Zac Harvey posted a text message exchange with Unite official Charlotte Upton in which she said: 'I need you to send me a picture of your Unite ballot paper with James Elliott selected' and said it was 'not acceptable' for him to refuse. Other delegates tweeted that he was then forced to leave the conference hotel because he did not show them his ballot paper and that they had to collect his things from his room as he 'felt unsafe'. Jess Phillips reported news of the bullying claims on Twitter, promising to 'kick off momma style' Another member Jade Botterill tweeted: 'Now there are people intimidating candidates, following them into toilets, threatening them! Absolutely vile.' She added: 'People here are being bullied this isn't organising, this is victimising.' Unite was accused this month of trying to help Mr Elliott by offering their members free travel and hotel rooms. Mr Elliott wrote in a recent article: 'Anti-Semitism is a tired old accusation from Zionists, retreating behind mendacious slurs when losing the arguments.' He has also written slamming the 'very long history of collusion between Zionists and the Labour party' which he claims 'shames the working-class origins and socialist sentiments of the latter'. The Unite union was at the centre of vote-rigging claims in 2013 when Labour was nominating a new candidate to be MP for Falkirk in Scotland. Local residents claimed to have been signed up without their knowledge to support the union-backed candidate. A Unite spokesman said: 'There is not a shred of truth in the claim that a delegate was asked to leave his hotel accommodation, nor that there was any wrong doing by the Unite delegation co-chair who acted with propriety at all times. Claims to the contrary are deliberately misleading and malicious, intended for no other reason than to bring this union into disrepute. 'The Labour party is due to examine the Young Labour elections including some concerning allegations of a smear campaign organised by one candidate against a rival. Unite urges that a full and independent look at these elections is agreed, and we will happily cooperate fully in this process.' Extra cameras and cell floors re-enforced with steel are just some of the new measures at Altiplano prison Coronel said the thinks the tight measures are to punish him for his escape She says the guards wake him up almost hourly for head counts meaning he is anxious and cannot sleep The common-law wife of drug lord Joaquin 'El Chapo' Guzman says his health problems have become 'a lot worse' because guards at a maximum-security prison rouse him for head counts, interfering with his sleep. Emma Coronel is the mother of Guzman's twin daughters and told the Radio Formula station that Guzman is having problems with nervousness and anxiety, because he isn't sleeping at the Altiplano prison west of Mexico City. Authorities have been waking Guzman every few hours for head counts. Scroll down for video Emma Coronel (left) is the mother of Guzman's twin daughters and told the Radio Formula station that Guzman (right) is having problems with nervousness and anxiety Coronel (pictured) who married El Chapo in 2007 when she was 18 and he was 47, said last week guards at Altiplano jail where the Sinaloa cartel boss is being kept are punishing him for escaping Guzman was recaptured earlier this month, six months after his elaborate escape from a Mexican maximum security prison. Mexican marines captured El Chapo, which means 'the short one' in Spanish, during a raid in the town of Los Mochis, located in the kingpin's home state of Sinaloa. Five cartel gangsters were killed and another six were arrested in the raid, while one Mexican marine sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Coronel also told Radio Formula she thought authorities were trying to kill Guzman. Coronel quoted Guzman as saying he wasn't allowed to exercise in open air, but doesn't care and only wants to be allowed to sleep. In an interview with Telemundo, Coronel said: 'I am afraid for his life. We don't know if he is eating well. We don't know about his well being because we haven't seen him.' The extreme measures put in place at Altiplano (above) are reportedly as a precaution to stop the notorious drug lord from escaping from incarceration for a third time Guzman was recaptured earlier this month, six months after his elaborate escape from a Mexican maximum security prison. And added that she believed the prison guards 'want to make him pay for his escape.' These extreme measures are reportedly as a precaution to stop the notorious drug lord from escaping from incarceration for a third time, according to El Universal newspaper. El Universal newspaper also described how prison staff have deployed sniffer dogs trained to sniff Guzman's distinct smell. They also move him around on a regular basis in a carefully managed procedure where teams of guards - all wearing helmet- cameras - follow his every move, which has to be personally signed off by the head of the Mexican prison service. Hundreds of new cameras have been installed around the prison and some of Guzman's cell floors have been reinforced with steel, according to the paper. There were already 100 fixed-position cameras at the time of Guzman's escape from Altiplano - now that number is 400 and will rise to close to 1,000 over the next few months, says El Universal. This not the first time Coronel has spoken out about Guzman's safety in prison. Coronel, who married El Chapo in 2007 when she was 18 and he was 47, said last week guards at Altiplano jail where the Sinaloa cartel boss is being kept are punishing him for escaping. Even more secure: Hundreds of new cameras have been installed around Altiplano prison (above) and some of Guzman's cell floors have been reinforced with steel And her comments came days after it was reported that El Chapo is being turned into a 'zombie' by prison guards who will not let him sleep for more than two hours at a time. The drug baron's lawyer, Juan Pablo Badillo, said that El Chapo feels he is the victim of 'physical and mental torture'. El Chapo allegedly told Mr Badillo: 'They are turning me into a zombie, they won't let me sleep, now there is nothing else I want but for them to let me sleep.' Several weeks ago, it was reported that he was willing to plead guilty in the United States - as long as he is not jailed in a maximum-security prison. The Sinaloa cartel leader believes he would enjoy better treatment in an American cell compared to the 'extreme freezing conditions' of his current Mexican lock-up where he 'fears for his life'. Up for parole?: David Allen Chapin, 60, is serving life for shooting his friend in 1978 and eating some of his remains An Ohio man who nearly 40 years ago killed his roommate and ate part of his brain is under review for parole. David Allen Chapin, 60, is serving life at a prison in Lima for shooting his longtime friend Donald Liming in the eye in October 1978, in a dispute over religion. The two 23-year-olds were sharing an apartment in Milford, in southwest Ohio. Chapin was a Baptist, while Liming had said he was a Catholic, a Buddhist and a pagan. Chapin told a court-ordered psychiatrist he ate Liming's brain as part of a 'mutual agreement' between the friends. The Ohio Parole Board held a closed hearing February 1, but a prisons department spokeswoman told The Cincinnati Enquirer members couldn't reach a majority decision. That triggered a central office review that could take several weeks. Chapin has been denied parole at least four previous times. Liming and Chapin were childhood friends. They grew up as next-door neighbors. Liming was one of nine children. The day Chapin murdered Liming, he stuffed the body into the trunk of his Buick Skylark and drove to biology class where he asked the professor if he needed a corpse to dissect, The Enquirer reported. Chapin pleaded not guilty to murder by reason of insanity. He told a court-ordered psychiatrist that he and Liming had made an agreement about eating his remains. The psychiatrist, Dr. Charles Hart Enzer, said Chapin had a 'warm, personable smile' as he talked about the murder of his friend. 'Obviously, we strongly oppose parole on him and always have,' said Clermont County Prosecutor Vincent Faris. British soldiers have been deployed to Tunisia to help stop the flow of Islamic State fighters across the border from Libya after the slaughter of holidaymakers, it was announced today. The UK military trainers were sent earlier this month to train the Tunisian army in how to guard their 285-mile border with the war-torn country, which has descended into chaos following the overthrow of Colonel Gadaffi. Their mission follows requests by the local government, which has launched a crackdown against suspected jihadist cells following the massacre of 30 Britons on a beach in Sousse last summer. British soldiers are inTunisia at the request of the local government, which is cracking down on suspected jihadist cells following the massacre of 30 Britons on a beach in Sousse last summer Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said he was extremely concerned about the proliferation of Daesh along the Libyan coastline. He said British troops would help Tunisian forces increase their border security by preventing illegal crossings. He said: With Daesh terrorists determined to target civilians wherever they can, this training will help Tunisian forces to increase their border security. It underlines our commitment to peace and security in the region. The team of around 20 troops will train Tunisian forces responsible for countering illegal cross-border movement from Libya. As part of the two-month mission, UK personnel are providing mobile patrolling and surveillance training in Tunisia. They will teach local military personnel how to spot barbaric militants and how to prevent them coming across the border and destabilising the region. Defence Secretary Michael Fallon said he was extremely concerned about the proliferation of Daesh along the Libyan coastline The training, being delivered by 4th Infantry Brigade, involves both classroom and practical exercises, which will assist the Tunisians to better guard their land borders. Last year, 38 people were killed when an IS gunman opened fire on a beach and hotel packed with holidaymakers. As a result, the Foreign Office updated its travel advice and thousands of British tourists returned home. Earlier this month, one of the masterminds behind the massacre was believed to have been killed in a US bombing raid on an IS camp in Libya. With approval from Mr Fallon, American warplanes flew from a British base to target Noureddine Chouchane, a Tunisian terrorist who helped to organise the slaughter. During defence questions in the House of Commons today, Mr Fallon said: I granted permission for the US to use our bases because they are trying to prevent Daesh from using Libya as a base from which to plan and carry out attacks that threaten the stability of Libya and the region and potentially the United Kingdom and our people too. He said Britain would not be sending ground troops into Libya but that the UK was ready to provide training and advice in the country. He added: Before engaging in any military operation in Libya we would of course have to seek an invitation from the new Libyan government and we would also have to involve this parliament. Tunisians are believed to be flocking to fight in Iraq and Syria in the thousands. At least 3,000 Tunisians are believed to be fighting in Syria's civil war, making it the greatest exporter of foreign fighters to Syria. Hundreds of Tunisians have returned from the countries, fuelling security fears within the country. An Islamic studies tutor who sexually assaulted a young girl over a five-year period has been jailed for 19 years after she delayed having an abortion so she could prove he was the father. Mohammed Islam, 31, from Bethnal Green, east London, began molesting the girl in 2010 when she was aged nine and at a time when he was teaching the Koran to schoolchildren in the East End. He continued to sexually assault her over the next five years, before raping her when she was 14. Snaresbrook Crown Court heard the attacks escalated in seriousness over the five-year period and she felt powerless to stop him when he eventually raped and impregnated her in July last year. Mohammed Islam, 31, from Bethnal Green, began molesting the girl in 2010 when she was nine and continued over a five-year period before raping her when she was 14, Snaresbrook Crown Court heard (pictured) The 14-year-old, from west London, delayed having an abortion so she could prove his crimes. Robert Brown, prosecuting, told the court: A profile was obtained that was identical to this defendant. The Crown say he was clearly the father of that foetus. Islam initially claimed his victim had initiated sex but admitted rape and sexual activity with a child on the first day of trial when she turned up to give evidence against him. A victim impact statement provided by the girls father highlighted the pain and distress the abuse had caused the family. What Mohammed has done to my daughter has broken me, the statement read. In our religion she is no longer considered a virgin and is therefore unable or unlikely to get married to have a family. I am devastated. I am so angry. I only hope and pray for her that this abuse will not have a long term effect on her. Judge Sarah Paneth jailed Islam for 19 years for rape and handed him concurrent sentences of five years and two-and-a-half years for four counts of sexually assaulting a child and two of sexual activity with a child respectively. I do not accept that a nine-year old child could possibly have instigated any sexual activity with you Judge Sarah Paneth Sending him to prison, she said: I do not accept that a nine-year old child could possibly have instigated any sexual activity with you. I do not accept that she could in any sense encourage you. You were respected as a religious man teaching young children the Koran and while I fully accept that the community centre had no difficulties with you teaching children, what you did over a long period of time - five years - to this young child demonstrates to me that there is a significant risk of serious harm being caused by you to members of the public, as it is young children in this case, particularly young girls. These offences have had a devastating effect on a beautiful and brave young girl who I was fortunate enough to meet when she attended court. I hope that over time you will show greater empathy than you have for her position. You seem, both from the pre-sentence report and from what has been said, to be most concerned about the effect of all this on you. Cardinal George Pell says he has the full backing of Pope Francis as he prepares to give evidence on the second day of a special hearing of the child abuse royal commission. The cardinal, who is the Vatican's finance chief, arrived at the Hotel Quirinale late in Rome on Monday night to answer more questions about what he knew of sexual abuse by pedophile priests and brothers in Victoria in the 1970s. When asked about a meeting he had with Pope Francis earlier in the day, the cardinal told waiting media as he walked through the hotel's revolving doors: 'I have the full backing of the Pope'. Scroll down for video Cardinal George Pell says he has the full backing of Pope Francis as he prepares to give evidence from Rome on the second day of a special hearing of the child abuse royal commission Cardinal Pell is giving evidence via video link from Rome because he's too ill to fly to Australia. He has previously appeared before the commission on two occasions in Australia. On the first day of his testimony, Cardinal Pell said he was unaware of sexual abuse and cover-ups across the Ballarat diocese when he was there from 1973 to 1984. However, he admitted to hearing 'fleeting references', 'talk', 'gossip' and unspecified information about untoward behaviour by some clergy. He told the commission that he had heard rumours of pedophile priests and suspected a Christian Brother of 'pedophilic activity' in the 1970s but insists he had no authority to act. Cardinal Pell, who is the Vatican's finance chief, told waiting media that 'I have the full backing of the Pope' after meeting with Pope Francis (pictured) following the first day of giving evidence via video link The cardinal arrived at the Hotel Quirinale late in Rome on Monday night to answer more questions about what he knew of sexual abuse by pedophile priests and brothers in Victoria in the 1970s Cardinal George Pell started giving evidence to the child abuse royal commission in Sydney via a videolink from Rome. Before giving evidence, he swore on the Bible that he would tell the truth Cardinal Pell also admitted he heard gossip in the early 1970s about Mildura parish priest Monsignor John Day being accused of pedophile activity. He described the handling of notorious pedophile priest Gerald Ridsdale by former Ballarat Bishop Ronald Mulkearns as 'a catastrophe' for victims and the church and admitted the church had made 'enormous mistakes'. Australian survivors of child sexual abuse and their supporters have flown to Rome and watched the evidence live at a hotel in the centre of the city. On the first day of his testimony, Cardinal Pell said he was unaware of sexual abuse and cover-ups across the Ballarat diocese when he was there from 1973 to 1984 Cardinal Pell arrived at the Hotel Quirinale for his second day of testimony two hours before his scheduled start at 8am Sydney time Cardinal George Pell gave his testimony from Rome on Monday saying he is 'not defending the indefensible' in the Catholic Church's handling of child sexual abuse by clergy Their reaction was mixed: welcoming of a more conciliatory tone but cautious about what they saw as the cardinal's careful choice of words. Cardinal Pell arrived at the Hotel Quirinale for his second day of testimony two hours before his scheduled start at 8am Sydney time. He entered through the front door on Monday evening after his entry on Sunday night through a side door to avoid waiting media. Linda Spradley Dunn, whose daughters are in the same Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, troop as Chris Rock's, was bombarded with emails and messages when she was mentioned during his Girl Scout cookie sketch at the Oscars on Sunday The mother called out by Chris Rock as his main competition for Girl Scout cookie sales in his neighborhood says she has no hard feelings, after the comedian raised $65,000 from the star-studded crowd during the Oscars. Linda Spradley Dunn, whose daughters are in the same Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, troop as Rock's, was bombarded with emails and messages when she was mentioned on Sunday. Rock told the audience: 'Last night Zara, my youngest called me up and said, "Daddy how come we never sell the most cookies? How come Mrs. Dunn wins every year?' he said. ' He then challenged the audience saying: 'It would mean so much to my little girl if we could beat Linda Dunn.' She told the New York Daily News she wasn't watching the ABC broadcast at the time, and wasn't expecting it. But now she is ready for the challenge, and has started her own campaign on Twitter using #TeamLinda. 'All of a sudden my phone starts ringing. My email blows up. Everyone is calling to say Chris Rock just threw down the gauntlet. Did he really do that? He is nuts. It was all fun and all for a great cause.' Rock's scouts ended up selling 13,000 boxes and raising $65,243. He solicited donations from his fellow stars including Morgan Freeman, Christian Bale and even Joe Biden so he could beat Dunn. Dunn told the Daily News it was far better than his usual approach, which involved standing outside a Kings supermarket. The CEO of marketing firm Odyssey did boast that she had enlisted the help of her friends all across the country in order to sell thousands of boxes. However she wouldn't tell the newspaper how many she had sold in the past. 'I have stayed under the radar...as a CEO of a pretty prominent company, and now Im known as a being a Girl Scout leader, Ill take it (fame) however you get it.' Spradley Dunn serves as CEO & Founder of Odyssey Media, an international organization for affluent and influential multicultural women. The company boasts a following of over 300,000 women, and is known for its 17-year old 'Ultimate Business Retreat,' the Odyssey Network conference and has long-standing relationships with Fortune 50 companies like Coca-Cola and Walmart, to name a few. 'In today's world, you may be a CEO, a mom, a wife, a troop leader and more,' said Spradley Dunn. 'The women in my company and circle all represent that and then some.' She also gave props to Malaak Compton-Rock, Chris Rock's wife, for finding time in her busy schedule to be a Girl Scout troop leader and volunteer, and who is being honored as Girl Scout Council of Northern New Jersey's Woman of Distinction on April 14th. The mother and CEO of a media company (pictured right with fashion designer Cookie Johnson) said she wasn't watching the broadcast at the time. She said Rock's scheme of selling to Hollywood stars was better than his usual method: standing outside a grocery store Rock implored the celebrity audience to 'dig into your millionaire pockets' to help his daughters raise money, saying he missed out on helping them because hosting took up so much of his time Oscar host Chris Rock uploaded a video of Vice President Joe Biden paying $20 for some of his daughters' Girl Scout cookies after he appealed for donations during the show Spradley Dunn noted, 'Malaak is an amazing mom, who brought her entire family into scouting, and she deserves the recognition'. 'Moms all over the country rise to the challenge of real work/life balance daily. While it's been cool to be recognized as one of them, I'm one of many,' Dunn remarked. Explaining that he had completely missed Girl Scout cookie season thanks to his hosting duties, Rock appealed to the audience to 'open your millionaire pockets' and buy some. And it seems the appeal even managed to persuade Vice President Joe Biden, who was filmed handing Rock $20 backstage during the ceremony. In the footage Biden can be seen handing the money over before walking away up a corridor, thanking Rock for his time. There is no word yet on what cookies Biden ordered. Rock eventually managed to raise just over $65,000 from the appeal, which he quipped was largely due to Suge Knight, the rapper currently on trial for murder. The camera then cut away to a man posing as Knight in a bright orange suit flanked by policemen and surrounded by towers of cookie boxes. During the skit, Rock joked at Leo that he should donate, as he had made $30million from one of his projects. Biden had appeared on stage himself earlier in the show to introduce Lady Gaga singing a rendition of her hit Til It Happens To You. The tune features in documentary The Hunting Ground, an examination of sexual assault on college campuses which was nominated for Best Original Song. By the end of the night, Rock managed to raise more than $65,000 from the audience, joking that most of the cookies had been bought by rapper Suge Knight, who is currently on trial for murder Addressing Tinsel Town, Biden said: 'Despite significant progress over the last few years, too many woman and men on and off college campuses are still victims of sexual abuse. 'Tonight, I'm asking you to join millions of Americans including me, President Obama, the thousands of students I've met on college campuses and the artists here tonight to take the pledge. 'The pledge says I will intervene in situations where consent has not or can not be given. Let's change the culture, we must and we can change the culture. 'Too many men and women around the country are still victims of sexual abuse. We must and we can change the culture so that no sexual abuse survivor thinks they did anything wrong.' The man charged with killing college students Hannah Graham and Morgan Harrington in Virginia is set to plead guilty in both cases, a prosecutor has revealed. Jesse Matthew, 33, is scheduled to appear in Albemarle County Circuit Court on Wednesday to enter pleas for Graham's 2014 murder and Harrington's 2010 murder. Without the plea agreement, he could have faced the death penalty in the Graham case had he been convicted at trial. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO Jesse Matthew (left) is charged with killing 18-year-old Hannah Graham (right) in 2014. Without a plea deal he could have faced the death penalty in her murder case. He will now plead guilty, a prosecutor said on Monday Matthew also has been indicted for the 2009 disappearance and murder of Morgan Harrington Hannah Graham, 18, went missing on her way to a party at the University of Virginia in September 2014. Her friends last heard from her at 1.20am. She was last seen on surveillance footage soon after walking with a man who had his arm around her. Prosecutors claim that man was Matthew. The five-week-long search for Graham's body drew attention across the United States and in Britain, where she was born. Her remains were found in an abandoned property in Albemarle County, Virginia, in November 2014. Before she was found, Matthew was identified as a person of interest. After police named Matthew a person of interest in Graham's disappearance, he fled and was later apprehended on a beach in south Texas. He was charged with abduction with intent to defile, a felony that empowered police to swab his cheek for a DNA sample. When they took his DNA, they tied him to another case: a 2005 sexual assault in Fairfax County, a Virginia suburb of Washington, D.C. That case, in turn, connected Matthew to the 2009 murder of 20-year-old Virginia Tech student Morgan Harrington. Harrington had vanished while attending a Metallica concert at the University of Virginia in 2009. Her T-shirt was later found on a nearby tree and her body was discovered more than three months later in a hayfield in January 2010. It was about six miles from the abandoned home where Graham's remains were discovered. The development in both cases came amid rising national concern about sexual assaults and other crimes around universities. Now, he is set to plead guilty to both cases. Matthew is already serving three consecutive life sentences in prison for a sexual assault on a 26-year-old woman in Fairfax County, Virginia in 2005. His family had asked for leniency in the sentencing and a former girlfriend has written a letter on Matthews behalf claiming he had been raped as a child. But the judge branded him a 'modern day Jekyll and Hyde' who projected an image of a gentle giant to friends and family - while hiding his double life as a violent sexual predator. He was jailed last year after entering a plea deal, acknowledging that prosecutors had enough evidence to convict him without directly admitting any crime. In the key testimony, forensic scientist Elizabeth Ballard said the chance it is not Matthew's DNA on the victim is less than one in 7.2 billion. Morgan Harrington disappeared six miles from where Hannah Graham was last seen - albeit five years apart Matthew gave the plea to all three charges in the Fairfax case: attempted capital murder, abduction and sexual assault. The victim, who flew back from India to testify, told jurors in June 2015 that her attacker grabbed her just steps from the door to her townhouse and carried her into a darkened area, where he ripped off her clothes and molested her. She fought and scratched him, yielding the crucial DNA evidence, until her attacker ran off as a bystander approached. He was also accused of raping students in 2002 and 2003 at Liberty University and Christopher Newport University, where he had played football. Those cases were dropped when the victims declined to press charges. Matthew's attorney, public capital defender Douglas Ramseur, declined to comment on the news of his impending plea in the Graham and Harrington cases. 'It is anticipated that Jesse Leroy Matthew, Jr., will be entering pleas of guilty to resolve both the Hannah Graham and Morgan Harrington abduction and murder cases,' Albemarle County Commonwealth's Attorney Robert Tracci said in a pres release on Monday. Details of the agreement were not released. Graham disappeared after a night out with friends in Charlottesville. In surveillance video, she can be seen walking unsteadily and running at times before crossing a seven-block strip of bars, restaurants and shops. Approach: Footage released by Charlottesville police shows Hannah (bottom left) walking by the doors of McGrady's Irish pub at around 12.46am Crucial: Footage of Hannah Graham showed the student walking past Tuel Jewelers just after 1am with an unidentified man Another video captured her leaving a restaurant with Matthew, his arm around her. He was the last person seen with Graham, according to authorities. Prosecutors have interviewed a girl who claims she saw Graham and Matthew walk past, and said to a friend 'He's gonna f*** her up'. She told police she had been walking on Charlottesville's downtown mall when a man, allegedly Matthew, tried to high-five her - but that she refused before he walked up to a 'female walking alone'. The charge against Matthew in the Graham case was later upgraded to capital murder, giving prosecutors the option to seek the death penalty. Matthew, who was a taxi driver before going to work at the University of Virginia hospital, also had been accused of raping students in 2002 and 2003 at Liberty University and Christopher Newport University, where he had played football. Akiel Denkins, 24, was running away when he was gunned down by police, witnesses have said A black man wanted on drugs charges who was shot dead by police on Monday was running away when he was gunned down, witnesses have said. Akiel Denkins, 24, was fired on six times by officers as he fled from a store and into a backyard in Raleigh, North Carolina, shocked bystanders said. Denkins' distraught mother claimed her son was unarmed when he was shot seven times, but police said a gun was found 'in close proximity to' the man's body. There were angry scenes on the streets of Raleigh tonight as dozens of people marched through the neighborhood demanding justice. The man has not been officially identified but Rolanda Byrd told ABC 11 that it was her son, Denkins. 'He was running away,' she said. 'They couldn't catch him so they shot at him seven times. 'Everybody seen it. They ain't going down with this one. They ain't gonna get away with this one, there's at least 40 eyewitnesses out here.' Ms Byrd added that several people told her that her son, who is black, was shot by a white police officer. The identity of the cop involved has not been released. A woman who saw the shooting told WRAL that father-of-two Denkins refused to stop and was shot as he tried to jump over a fence. 'When they got to the tall fence, the boy jumped the tall fence, but the police couldn't,' the woman, who did not wish to be identified, said. 'When the police went to jump over the tall fence, he fell. When he fell, he just started shooting his gun,' she added. Denkins was wanted on drugs charges after failing to attend a court hearing earlier this month concerning allegations that he was caught with cocaine, according to the Raleigh News & Observer. He had been convicted of drugs offenses three times in the past, officials said. Denkins, 24, was fired on six times by officers as he fled from a store and into a backyard in Raleigh, North Carolina, shocked bystander said There were angry scenes on the streets of Raleigh tonight as dozens of people marched through the neighborhood demanding justice Some were chanting 'no justice, no peace' and 'black lives matter' as they walked through the town after nightfall on Monday Tributes: While most were peaceful at candlelit vigils, pictures appeared to show tires being set alight Some protesters were chanting 'no justice, no peace' and 'black lives matter' as they marched through Raleigh. While most were peaceful at candlelit vigils, pictures appeared to show tires being set alight. 'He could have been my son. I treated him like my son. I've fed him at my church before. Now, he's lying back there dead,' Reverend Chris Jones said. 'It's going to damage the relationship with police. Even I have to fear. Even me, because of my color, now I've got to fear, when before I had a great relationship with officers. 'If he ran from you today, you could have arrested him tomorrow. Why did you have to kill him today?' Minister Brenda Ginger added: 'He's gone. Why? Because of the color of his skin. We are sick and tired of being sick and tired. It is time for change. It is time for all of us to get together and say no to the injustice.' Bystanders gather for a vigil near the scene of the fatal shooting in Raleigh, North Carolina Denkins' distraught mother, Rolanda Byrd (pictured), claimed her son was unarmed and had been shot seven times, but police said a gun was found 'in close proximity to' the man's body Witnesses said the black man, named locally as 24-year-old Akiel Denkins, was running away from a police officer in Raleigh when he was gunned down. Protesters began to gather at the scene this evening Dozens of people were seen gathering at the crime scene on Monday evening, chanting 'no justice, no peace' and 'black lives matter' Denkins was shot dead shortly after noon on Monday. Louis Rodriguez told the Raleigh News & Observer that he heard gunshots ring out this afternoon. 'I heard somebody say, "Stop, stop," then I heard, like, six shots,' he said. 'Then I heard the screams. Man, it was loud.' Raleigh Police Chief Cassandra Deck-Brown said: 'This is a sad day, and our thoughts and prayers go out to all involved. 'Shortly after noon today a Raleigh Police Department officer engaged in a foot pursuit in the vicinity of Bragg and East streets while trying to detain an adult male suspect who was wanted for a felony drug charge. During the course of the pursuit, the suspect was shot and killed by the officer. 'Initially, it is known that a firearm was located in close proximity to the deceased suspect. That weapon, along with all other elements available at the scene will be processed.' State investigators will handle the case and will report directly to Wake County district attorney. A spokesman for North Carolina's American Civil Liberties Union said: 'Along with many community members in Raleigh, we are alarmed by these reports, trying to learn more details about what happened, and express our deepest condolences to Akiel's family. 'What we do know is that far too many people of color are victims of wrongful targeting and excessive use of force by law enforcement officers across the country, and North Carolina is not immune to that reality.' Police have shot dead a black man wanted on drugs charges in North Carolina. Pictured, police at the scene Police said a gun was found near to the body of the shot man after he was killed by an officer in Raleigh. Pictured, police at the scene Marco Rubio is going to have a rough go tomorrow night if Donald Trump wins all the states he's expected to. Even Rubio-supporting congressman Trey Gowdy, the House Benghazi Committee Chairman, is predicting a blow out for Trump. 'I cannot contradict the polling, which has Trump winning the majority of the states,' he told DailyMail.com this afternoon. 'There may be a couple where I think Marco can surprise some folks. Scroll down for video Marco Rubio is going to have a rough go tomorrow night if Donald Trump wins all the states he's expected to. Even Rubio-supporting congressman Trey Gowdy, the House Benghazi Committee Chairman, is predicting a blow out for Trump 'I cannot contradict the polling, which has Trump winning the majority of the states,' Gowdy told DailyMail.com this afternoon. He's seen here with Rubio last week in South Carolina DREAM TEAM: With the help of Governor Nikki Haley, Gowdy and U.S. Senator Tim Scott, Rubio came in second in South Carolina. The last-minute surge in the southern state hasn't helped his chances elsewhere, though Gowdy had just finished a stint in Texas - 'Cruz country' - for Rubio and was headed to Washington. Asked how he expected Rubio to perform tomorrow, he simply stated, I have no evidence to contradict the polling.' That's bad news for the GOP presidential candidate. He's ahead in just one of the 11 Super Tuesday states, Minnesota, while Cruz is looking at first in two others, Arkansas - where he's only a four points ahead of Trump and Rubio - and Texas. Trump will predictably take the rest. I know,' Gowdy, a South Carolina congressman, said of tomorrow's bleak outlook. 'But I am not one to give you a rosy picture if theres no evidentiary basis for it,' the former prosecutor said. 'I dont have any reason to contradict the polling.' He added: I thought that we had a chance to come in second in South Carolina and we did, barely. Rubio did indeed surge to second last week in South Carolina with the help of Gowdy, Governor Nikki Haley and U.S. Senator Tim Scott. The boost didn't give him any momentum in the next contest, Nevada, though, and he continues to poll dramatically below Trump in states with upcoming contests. That raises the question of next steps in the race, for Rubio and others. Three other candidates aside from he and Trump remain: Ben Carson, John Kasich and Cruz. I think I saw that Carson wasn't dropping out, Kasich is in through Ohio.Cruz will have some wind in his sails because of Texas, and then Marco would legitimately want to see what Florida did,' Gowdy said today. So, I dont see the filed winnowing down, even after tomorrow night.' For Rubio to remain viable in the race, he'll have to win at least some of the four states, and Puerto Rico, that vote over the weekend and four more, along with Guam and Washington, D.C., that are up next week. Florida does not vote until March 15, the same day as Kasich's Ohio. A weekend of whacking around Donald Trump stole rival Marco Rubio's voice away from the Republican candidate, so he enlisted South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley for some help. The duo stepped out together today in Atlanta, Georgia with the governor telling her Southern neighbors that 'Donald Trump is everything I told my children not to do in kindergarten,' she said, while condemning the GOP frontrunner for not immediately disavowing his endorsement from Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke. When a hoarse Rubio got the microphone, he also went after The Donald, but laid off the pettier rhetoric like a line he used yesterday mocking the size of Trump's hands. Scroll down for video Rubio is making a last ditch effort to get Republicans to come his way as the majority of Super Tuesday polls with the exception of Texas where rival Sen. Ted Cruz reigns supreme show Trump trouncing the Florida senator who has recently become GOP establishment's darling. Coming onstage with Rubio, Haley called on the audience: 'I want us to be the voice that he can't have right now,' she said pointing to the senator, who with the aid of cough drops, was still able to give a 40 minute speech. Haley used a number of attack lines against Trump, before it was Rubio's turn. She pointed to Trump's histories of bankruptcy. 'We can't afford for a man to go in as president and bankrupt our country,' Haley said. 'D.C. is already doing that, we don't need someone encouraging them to do that.' Upon making her kindergarten comment, the governor explained how Rubio prescribed to the same advice that she doled out to her young kids. 'When a bully hits you you hit that bully right back,' she said. She also reminded Georgians about the tragedy that their neighboring state saw last June, when nine African-American churchgoers were gunned down in Charleston. 'And the KKK came to South Carolina from out of state to protest on our State House grounds,' Haley said. 'We saw and looked at true hate in the eyes last year in Charleston,' the governor continued. 'I will not stop until we fight a man that chooses not to disavow the KKK,' she added, aiming her ire at Trump. 'That is not a part of our party, that is not who we want as president. We we allow not allow that in our country!' Haley also went after Trump for failing to release his tax returns. Trump has said he is under an audit and won't release the returns until the Internal Revenue Service's investigation is complete. The South Carolina governor connected Trump's non-disclosure, to that of Hillary Clinton, who has had her own share of problems thanks to using a personal email address and homebrew server during her time working at the State Department. 'We have two presidential candidates right now who are under investigation: Hillary Trump,' Haley said, immediately laughing when she realized the mistake she had made. 'That could be something. That even cracked me up.' She tried again. 'We have two presidential candidates that refuse to disclose information: Hillary Clinton and Donald Trump,' Haley said properly. 'i am an accountant,' she continued. 'I can tell you that there is no audit that precludes you from showing your tax returns.' 'Donald Trump show us your tax returns,' the governor demanded. Rubio picked up where Haley left off, though squawked a little at first before his voice his a more normal tone. 'I will continue to speak out until I literally have no voice left,' Rubio said. 'I will go anywhere and speak to anyone before I let a con artist get a hold of the Republican party and the conservative movement.' The Florida senator played it a little nicer today with Trump, refusing to indulge in audience members' request to read The Donald's tweets a back-and-forth he's been doing recently to excite his crowds. 'I suppose I could stand here today and hurl insults, personal insults, against him, because he's don that the whole campaign,' Rubio said. 'OK, I've done it like a couple of times lately,' he admitted, laughing. 'I'm not, I'm not they want me to read his tweets not today guys, I've lost my voice, it's too crazy.' Rubio told the crowd what motivated him to take a harsher line against Trump on Thursday night at the Republican debate in Houston, Texas, was hearing more about the businessman's defunct Trump University. The Florida senator suggested that the school preyed on those who were down on their luck and made them go into debt to foot the exorbitant price of the Trump University programs. 'Because if you're successful you're not going to Trump University,' Rubio joked, while making a serious point about Trump University's recruitment 'scam.' Rubio noted that it was a pattern too. While Trump talks about bringing jobs back from overseas, he could do it right now, Rubio suggested, by ensuring that all the 'Donald J. Trump'-branded clothing was made in the U.S.A. 'You know all those clothes that say Donald J. Trump on it?' Rubio asked. 'It's not just tacky, it's made in China and Mexico.' As a real estate developer, Rubio said that Trump left the little guy behind too, noting that it was often the sub-contractors who weren't paid when a Trump project didn't work out. 'He has never fought for them,' Rubio said. A fight over inheritance could have may have been the motive for the deadly shooting of an Ohio pastor during a church service Sunday. William Schooler, 70, was gunned down at the back of St. Peters Missionary Baptist in Dayton after which brother Daniel Schooler was arrested. Court records have today revealed that the suspect had sued his brother and other church leaders back in 2011 after he claimed he was owed money from the real estate value of the church, according to. A court had ruled against this claim. Pastor William Schooler, 70, (left) was shot and killed during a church service at St. Peters Missionary Baptist in Dayton, Ohio. His 69-year-old brother Daniel (right) wastaken into custody and is expected to be charged with his murder A relative told the Dayton Daily News that Daniel Schooler has a history of mental illness. The newspaper also reports that Daniel Schooler shot his nephew in the arm in 2001, but the nephew didn't want to press charges. Authorities investigating the slaying of a southwest Ohio pastor expected Schooler to be charged with murder Monday. The suspect was sitting in a pew when he suddenly started following the pastor towards the back of the church. As the choir was singing, witnesses say they heard two shots as Schooler headed behind the pulpit. According to WTN, the church was thrown into chaos and everyone was seen running out of the doors. Schooler died from his injuries at the scene. There were said to be 20 people inside at the time. According to the Dayton Daily News, Schooler was appointed pastor of the small church in 2011. He was a 1963 graduate of Dunbar High School, and a decorated Vietnam Veteran who received the Bronze Star. Schoolder graduated from Central State University in 1972, the Ohio State University in 1976 and Grace College in Columbia, S.C., in 2003. As the choir was signing, witnesses say they heard two shots as Schooler headed behind the pulpit at the church. He died at the scene He was a member of the Montgomery County Family and Children First Committee. Friend and fellow community leader Ronnie Moreland said Schooler was the current president of the Baptist Ministers Union in Dayton. 'He had deep roots in the community,' he told the Dayton Daily News. 'He was a beloved leader. It's hard to put into words what has happened.' Angela Merkel seizes the chance to have a refreshing pint of beer during the traditional Ash Wednesday meeting in Germany. The day, which usually sees politicians in Germany debate political issues and enjoy a few pints, mark 16th Political Ash Wednesday of the Christian Democrat Union party in Volkmarsen. Popular support for German Chancellor Angela Merkel has bounced back after hitting a four and a half year low in February, a poll indicated today. However a majority of voters are still sceptical her government will be able to reduce the refugee influx soon. The Chancellor accidentally gives herself a small foam moustache after a few sips of her beer Angela Merkel toasts to the party and her supporters during the 16th Political Ash Wednesday of the Christian Democrat Union party Merkel has come under increasing pressure to reduce the number of migrants after 1.1 million entered Germany last year, and the centre-right leader herself has said she is currently facing the biggest challenge of her decade in office. The survey for public broadcaster ARD, conducted by pollster Infratest-dimap on Feb 26-27, had popular support for Merkel rising to 54 percent from 46 percent in the previous month. At the same time, support for Bavarian State Premier Horst Seehofer, one of Merkel's harshest critics in the refugee debate, plunged to 38 percent from 45 percent. Still, nearly 60 percent of the 1,005 polled voters said they were unsatisfied with the government's refugee policy while roughly 40 percent said Berlin was doing a good job. Merkel has come under increasing pressure to reduce the number of migrants after 1.1 million entered Germany last year The centre-right leader recently said she is currently facing the biggest challenge of her decade in office Merkel is struggling to secure a Europe-wide plan for dealing with the migrants. She is pinning her hopes on talks between European Union leaders and Turkey on March 7 German Chancellor Angela Merkel (left) and Prime Minister of Hesse Volker Bouffier (right) enjoy a pint at the 16th Political Ash Wednesday of the CDU in Volkmarsen German Chancellor Angela Merkel (right) and TV host Anne Will pose before a TV interview in which they discussed the migrant crisis German Chancellor Angela Merkel gestures as she poses before a TV interview on the migrant crisis with public broadcaster Merkel is struggling to secure a Europe-wide plan for dealing with the migrants. She is pinning her hopes on talks between European Union leaders and Turkey on March 7 and a migration summit on March 18 and 19. In the survey, a large majority (77 percent) welcomed the approach to push for a European solution, but only a third (32 percent) said such a plan would work and soon yield results. Nearly two out of three polled voters (63 percent) said Germany should introduce a national cap to limit the refugee influx. Speaking at an event of her centre-right CDU party in the central town of Volkmarsen, Merkel defended her open-door policy for migrants and rejected the idea of closing borders to better control the numbers of refugees allowed into the country. On Sunday, Merkel said there was no 'Plan B' for her aim of reducing the flow of migrants through cooperation with Turkey, efforts she said could unravel were Germany to cap the number of refugees it accepts. Last June, Barack Obama enjoyed a pint of wheat beer during a visit to the village of Krun in Germany , Wilson accused the younger of the two victims of lying about his age Wilson, 47, a 13-year veteran of the Phoenix Police Department, pleaded guilty in January to three sexual conduct charges Punished: Former Phoenix cop Christopher Wilson, 47, has been sentenced to 23 years after pleading guilty to three sexual conduct charges involving two boys, ages 14 and 17 A former Phoenix police detective was sentenced Monday to 23 years in prison after pleading guilty to having sex with two teenage boys. The punishment imposed on 47-year-old Christopher Wilson by a Maricopa County Superior Court judge was part of a plea agreement with prosecutors. Wilson also faces lifetime probation and must register as a sex offender. He pleaded guilty January 26 to two counts of sexual conduct with a minor and one count of attempt to commit sexual conduct with a minor, just moments before the former cop's trial was set to begin. The 13-year police veteran, who is openly gay, was initially charged with 10 counts of sexual conduct with a minor. Wilson was arrested in 2012 after investigators learned of an alleged three-way sexual encounter involving two boys, ages 14 and 17, whom he had met through work. Wilson was the Police Department's appointed outreach officer to the lesbian, gay, bi-sexual and transgender community. When given a chance to speak during his sentencing Monday, Wilson, dressed in a striped jail garb, said: 'I did not know at the time he [victim] was 14. He was supposed to be 18. He lied. I want to go on record stating that. In a jailhouse interview with the local station KPHO last year, Wilson claimed he thought the 17-year-old victim was emancipated and thought the 14-year-old was 18. Scroll down for video Figure of authority: Wilson was the Police Department's appointed outreach officer to the LGBT community blaming the victim: During his sentencing, Wilson (pictured left) said the 14-year-old victim lied about his age 'I'm not a monster like everyone's painting me out to be. You know, I'm not a predator. I'm not a pedophile. I didn't go out and seek a 14-year-old,' Wilson said. Wilsons lawyer, Robert Campos, said after sentencing that his client made the decision to plead guilty and accept his punishment so that the two victims would not have to go through a trial. 'This is a case of Chris taking responsibility but also hoping that by doing the right thing, cooperating with authorities, that that in the end would also give him a fair and just sentence,' the lawyer told KPHO. Had he gone to trial, Wilson could have faced up to 80 years in prison if convicted. The older of the two victims broke his silence last year, identifying himself as Caleb Laieski, who is now 20 years old and lives in Washington DC, working as a 911 dispatcher for the Arlington Police Department. As a 17-year-old openly gay anti-bullying activist, Laiseki was recognized by President Barack Obama for his work and was eventually appointed as the Youth and Diversity Liaison in the administration of Phoenix Mayor Greg Stanton, reported the station. Laieski met Detective Wilson through work, and the two eventually became friends. The older of Detective Wilson's two victims broke his silence last year, identifying himself as Caleb Laieski, a one-time prominent LGBT activist who was recognized for his work by President Obama (seen left at the White House). The image on the right shows Laieski with Arizona Senator John McCain Twist of faith: Laieski was indicted in 2013 on 13 counts of sexual conduct with a minor for having sex with the same 14-year-old boy as Christopher Wilson Speaking to KPHO, Wilson admitted that he bought the teen a couple of cheap suits and took him to the dentist once, but he vehemently denied grooming Laieski to be his sex partner. At one point, Laieski said he was at Wilson's home when the openly gay cop made a pass at him and sexual contact occurred between the two. On another occasion, Wilson had sex with the 17-year-old in Laiseki's apartment, and that encounter also involved the 14-year-old victim who was the older boy's sometimes sexual partner. In an ironic twist, a year after Wilson's arrest, Laiseki was indicted on 13 counts of sexual conduct with a minor for his trysts with the younger teen. He denied knowing Risdale had a 14-year-old living with him in 1982 Cardinal George Pell has questioned whether a priest with knowledge of sex crimes against children has a civic obligation to report it after he described the prolific sexual abuse of children at a Victorian parish 'a sad story' that 'wasn't of much interest' to him. Cardinal Pell, who was a Ballarat priest at the height of pedophile Gerald Risdale's offending, has presented evidence to the royal commission into child sex abuse from Rome, stating he was not aware of the notorious pedophile's behaviour in the 1970s and 1980s. When questioned about his obligation to speak out against crimes like those perpetrated against a number of children in the Ballarat diocese Cardinal Pell said members of the church who were aware would have been morally obliged to report it but questioned if that decision was expected by law. 'I'm not sure that he would morally escape such an obligation, but I am not sure at that stage there was even a civic obligation to report such a crime,' he told the commission on Tuesday via videolink. Cardinal George Pell has begun giving evidence to the child abuse royal commission in Sydney via a videolink from Rome for the second day Cardinal George Pell says Gerald Francis Ridsdale's sexual abuse of children at a Victorian parish in the 1970's was a 'sad story' that 'wasn't of much interest to me' Earlier that day Cardinal Pell described the abuse taking place in the Victorian parish of Inglewood in 1975 as a 'sad story' that was not of much interest to him at the time. 'The suffering, of course, was real and I very much regret that but I had no reason to turn my mind to the extent of the evil that Ridsdale had perpetrated,' Dr Pell said. His comment drew gasps from some observers in the room, many of whom were victims of child abuse who had travelled to Rome to hear his testimony. Cardinal Pell has denied having any knowledge of the widespread abuse, noting on Tuesday that he was not aware that Risdale had a teenage boy living with him in 1982, despite a number church officials being aware of the grossly inappropriate 'co-habitation' Paul Levey previously told royal commission that he was abused by Risdale 'just about every day' after he was sent to live at the presbytery at Mortlake for six months around Easter 1982. Mr Levey slept in the same room as the pedophile and claimed it became common knowledge he was living there. Paul Levey(centre) previously told royal commission that he was abused by Risdale 'just about every day' after he was sent to live at the presbytery at Mortlake for six months around Easter 1982 Cardinal Pell has denied having any knowledge of the widespread abuse, noting on Tuesday that he was not aware that Risdale had a teenage boy living with him in 1982 During his second day before the commission, Cardinal George Pell said he did not know about Mr Levey's living arrangements even though by then he was privy to the 'scandalous' rumours about Ridsdale from his time in Ballarat during the 70s. He said that at the time he was travelling at lot as he was working as director of Melbourne's Aquinas College and was also principal of the entire institute of Catholic education which meant he had thousands of children to oversee. 'I certainly was not plugged into the life of the diocese like someone who would be working full time in parishes,' he said. Counsel advising the commission Gail Furness, SC, pointed out to him that clergy with whom he was acquainted knew of the arrangement. Mr Levey's mother and a nun had also raised the issue with Ballarat Bishop Ronald Mulkearns. The cardinal insisted he did not know until much later, perhaps in the 90s, but had he known he would have thought it was 'most unusual, even if there was a resident housekeeper' with 'common sense'. He said he would have been concerned for the safety of the boy as it was 'imprudent' for any priest to do so. Cardinal Pell told the commission that during his time as consulter to Bishop Mulkearns he had never been advised of the situation by Mulkearns or a string of other priests who were aware of the situation. He questioned if he or any other advisors had 'the power' to withdraw the boy stating that members of the church are often surrounded by 'real constraints' and that 'nobody can do the impossible'. Cardinal Pell went on to say that at the time people were reticent to talk about such things. Commission chair Justice Peter McClellan asked him if being reticent implied people had knowledge but did not talk about it but Cardinal Pell said he was not suggesting that. Cardinal George Pell says he has the full backing of Pope Francis as he prepares to give evidence from Rome on the second day of a special hearing of the child abuse royal commission Cardinal Pell told the commission Bishop Mulkearns(pictured) was 'reprehensible' for ignoring complaints about the notorious pedophile priest Cardinal Pell did admit that the Catholic Church leadership failed to protect children in the Ballarat Diocese but accepted no responsibility for moving Risdale to Mortlake after a number of complaints were lodged Cardinal Pell did admit that the Catholic Church leadership failed to protect children in the Ballarat Diocese but accepted no responsibility for moving Risdale to Mortlake as he was ignorant of the offending by Risdale despite a number of complaints being made. 'In the diocese of Ballarat certainly there was a gigantic failure of leadership,' Cardinal Pell told the child abuse royal commission from Rome. The commission heard that between 1977 and 1984 Pell had been working as an advisor to the Bishop Mulkearns who headed the Ballarat diocese in the 1970s and 1980s when Ridsdale was repeatedly assaulting children. Cardinal Pell told the commission Bishop Mulkearns was 'reprehensible' in ignoring complaints about the notorious pedophile priest. 'His repeated refusal to act is, I think, absolutely extraordinary,' Dr Pell told the commission via video link from Rome. Ms Furness SC, counsel assisting the commission, described how one woman complained to Bishop Mulkearns about Ridsdale and 'he just sat there and stared at us'. 'That's extraordinary and reprehensible,' Cardinal Pell said. He said Bishop Mulkearns told his advisers that Risdale had to be removed from the Mortlake parish in a meeting in September 1982 but said pedophilia was never mentioned at the meeting. 'His repeated refusal to act is, I think, absolutely extraordinary,' Dr Pell said of Bishop Mulkearns Commission chair Justice Peter McClellan said Cardinal Pell would be held to be culpable if he, like Bishop Mulkearns, had know about the offending and not acted appropriately Ridsdale was the parish priest at Apollo Bay in 1974 to 1975 but put in for a transfer in February 1975 after a man told him there was pub talk about him and children 'There was no reference to sexual misconduct with minors,' he said. Cardinal Pell said he knew nothing about Ridsdale's pedophilia, stating that there were other priests who moved frequently and that it had not appeared suspicious given those circumstances. Ms Furness SC said three of the seven advisers at the September 1982 meeting knew it was necessary to move Ridsdale because of sexual complaints against him and it was implausible that the others were not told why. Cardinal Pell responded: 'It would only be implausible if there was evidence that they had been told in some way or other.' After reviewing minutes of the meeting, Ms Furness suggested that if three other consulters were aware it was 'implausible' that Cardinal Pell did not understand why it was necessary to move Risdale. Cardinal Pell said that was complete nonsense. ABUSE SURVIVORS LABEL PELL 'CULPABLE OR IGNORANT BAFOON' Cardinal George Pell says he was unaware of the offending of pedophile priest Gerald Ridsdale in the 1970s but abuse survivors find that hard to believe Child sex abuse survivors say it's unbelievable a man of Cardinal George Pell's intelligence was unaware of a pedophile priest's offending when two Victorian communities and local clergy knew about it. The cardinal told the child abuse royal commission on Monday night that while he was on a Ballarat diocese committee that advised on the transfers of priests he was never told of the offending of pedophile priest Gerald Ridsdale in the 1970s. By videolink from Hotel Quirinale in Rome he told the commission sitting in Sydney that then Ballarat bishop Ronald Mulkearns and his advisor Monsignor Fiscalini had deceived him by not telling him Ridsdale was moved between parishes because of his offending. Ridsdale was able to continue his offending as he was shifted from one parish to another as 'talk' began among parishioners about his interfering with children. His nephew David Ridsdale, who was sexually abused by his uncle, is among a group of survivors hearing the cardinal's evidence in Rome and told reporters it appeared the Catholic Church was behaving 'with lies and deceit' within its own structure. Survivors and family members of Risdale's victims - Dominic Ridsdale, Phil Nagle, Paul Auchettl, David Ridsdale, Tony Waroley, Stephen Woods and Peter Blenkiron - stand in front of the Quirinale hotel in Rome He said he assumed Victorian Police would be taking up the matter in relation to church officials moving pedophile priests to parishes where they could continue their offending. Abuse survivor Phil Nagle said the pedophile Ridsdale's offending with children was well known in two Victorian communities including among clergy, parents and police. 'Cardinal Pell is a very astute, a very bright man so how can he say he didn't know? 'He is the one putting the accusations back on his superiors that they lied and deceived.' Mr Ridsdale said Cardinal Pell was 'either culpable or an ignorant buffoon'. 'I don't believe he's the latter and we have no evidence of the former so we have to wait for the commission to do its job.' Advertisement Ms Furness said it was incumbent on Cardinal Pell to ask Bishop Mulkearns why Ridsdale was being moved yet again but Cardinal Pell said he was happy to take the bishop's word that it was necessary. She asked Cardinal Pell if he thought Bishop Mulkearns was 'just one bad apple, as it were, within the Catholic Church', to which he replied that he could nominate another Bishop whose actions were just as 'grave and inexplicable'. The cardinal was questioned about whether the role of the bishop in the structure of the church meant his conduct wasn't challenged. 'The authority of the bishop is very powerful and especially in climates where free discussion is not encouraged, and where information is kept very tight,that these abuses were able to go on,' Dr Pell said. Risdale has been jailed after admitting to a string of child sex offences and will be eligible for parole at age 84 Cardinal Pell told the commission that the authority of the bishop is 'very powerful' and that free discussion is not encouraged which allowed these abuses to go on Cardinal Pell answered questions about the treatment of Paul Levey, a child sex abuse victim who showed off his tatto that says 'no more silence' as he stood outside the Quirinale hotel in Rome Ms Furness SC said all parish priests, assistant priests, advisers and consultors collectively failed to protect children, but Cardinal Pell said that was a vast and misleading overstatement. Cardinal Pell said a universal failure would mean that everybody knew. 'A collective failure would be that primarily those with effective responsibility knew and did not act. 'For those who were ignorant, I think it is improper to impute responsibility to them.' Cardinal Pell said the primary responsibility to deal with claims against Risdale, commenting that others who knew of the allegations also had some moral responsibility to speak up. He told the commission that he excluded himself from that moral responsibility as he had been ignorant of the complaints against Ridsdale. 'When there is ignorance, when the ignorance is not wilful, when the ignorance does not represent somebody not doing their authority, I can't see that responsibility can be imputed to them.' When asked if he accepted any responsibility at all for Ridsdale being moved between parishes during the time he was a consultor, Cardinal Pell said he did not. The commission heard that Bishop Mulkearns knew about complaints against Ridsdale when he moved him between parishes but Cardinal Pell said he was not told about it during his time as an adviser to the bishop from 1977. 'For those who were ignorant, I think it is improper to impute responsibility to them,' Pell told the commission Bishop Mulkearns knew about complaints against Ridsdale when he moved him between parishes but Cardinal Pell said he was not told about it during his time as an adviser to the bishop from 1977 Cardinal Pell said the bishop and senior cleric Monsignor Leo Fiscalini deceived him and other advisers at meetings which discussed moving Ridsdale, whose offending was common knowledge in at least two parishes. Commission chair Justice Peter McClellan said Cardinal Pell would be held to be culpable if he, like Bishop Mulkearns, knew about the offending and did not act. The Cardinal stated that he found it unacceptable Ridsdale was moved between parishes, including to Inglewood in 1975, after receiving a victim's complaint. 'It's unacceptable because of the risk it presented to children in Inglewood and that was exacerbated by the fact it doesn't seem as though any effort was made to withdraw Ridsdale, at least for a period, for counselling or advice or help,' he said. Ridsdale was the parish priest at Apollo Bay in 1974 to 1975 but put in for a transfer in February 1975 after a man told him there was pub talk about him and children. Cardinal Pell said on Tuesday it was unacceptable that Ballarat Bishop Ronald Mulkearns moved pedophile Gerald Francis Ridsdale between parishes, including to Inglewood in 1975, after receiving a victim's complaint He went to Inglewood, where he left overnight in 1975 after a policeman complained about him interfering with his son. Cardinal Pell said moving Ridsdale was unacceptable and at the time the view would have been that he should have been at least sent for counselling as a minimum step if a bishop knew it was a first offence. 'These were different times with different sets of predispositions,' Cardinal Pell said. 'But whatever the predispositions, it's unsatisfactory. The cardinal told waiting media earlier in the day that he had 'the full backing of the Pope' after a weekly meeting with him earlier in the day. Cardinal Pell is making his third royal commission appearance from Rome because of medical advice he should not fly to Australia. Cardinal Pell is giving evidence via video link from Hotel Quirinale in Rome because he's too ill to fly to Australia. He has previously appeared before the commission on two occasions in Australia During his first day of questioning he told the commission that he had heard rumours of pedophile priests and suspected a Christian Brother of 'pedophilic activity' in the 1970s but insists he had no authority to act. Cardinal Pell also admitted he heard gossip in the early 1970s about Mildura parish priest Monsignor John Day being accused of pedophile activity. Retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson is pledging to stay in the presidential race, not letting a couple of last place finishes get in the way of the will of 'hundreds of thousands' of supporters who are pushing him onward. Carson penned an op-ed for Fox News today blasting the pundit class 'campaign flacks dressed up as journalists' who have suggested that he get out of the race. 'Unfortunately, these pundits have gotten too lost in the gladiatorial spectacle to see what truly matters: the will of We the People of America,' Carson wrote. Scroll down for video Ben Carson said he's staying put in the presidential race because 'hundreds of thousands' of supporters want him to - and he put pundits who have pointed to his low poll numbers - on blast 'With every call to drop out, pundits and political operatives salivate over polling percentages as though the people they represent were commodities to be bought and bartered in the backrooms of D.C.s exclusive political clubs,' Carson continued. 'This mentality is driving voters away from the political system they have so long supported,' he added. In attacking the messenger, Carson fails to mention the rather dire situation his bid is in, having not come close to winning a primary thus far, as Republicans report record turnout. Financially the retired neurosurgeon has been doing well, an in today's op-ed said he would continue his bid until the money runs out, but he's in fourth or fifth place of five GOP candidates in the polls leading to tomorrow's Super Tuesday contest in which 11 states voters make their pick. Last week Carson's campaign adviser reportedly responsible for the campaign's big shake-up late last year hinted that the Super Tuesday results might compel his candidate to get off the island. 'I think Super Tuesday, March 1, is going to be a moment of truth,' Armstrong Williams told Politico, hinting that if Carson didn't turn things around when a slew of Southern states vote on March 1 it was game over. 'You cannot ignore the fact that our predictions of what would happen and what could turn this around have not come to fruition yet,' Williams said. 'Unless that happens, it is obvious what the outcome will be.' Ben Carson is hanging in there - despite the fact that he has racked up two fourth place finishes and two last place finishes in Republican contests thus far Ben Carson will bring up the Tortoise and the Hare when asked whether he plans to drop out. He posits himself as the tortoise and perhaps frontrunner Donald Trump as the hare Carson only briefly saw success in his presidential bid, but then hopes of his outsider candidacy taking hold tumbled down. Around Halloween, Carson was polling ahead of frontrunner Donald Trump in Iowa, where the countrys first contest is held. But as the polls peaked for the retired neurosurgeon, the media started poking holes in some of the colorful anecdotes the doctor would tell on the campaign trail. One story - involving a young, brooding Ben Carson stabbing someone - was revised several times. Was it a close relative? A best friend? Carson changed the script, while associates of the Detroit native came forward and said they never remembered this type of anger coming from a young Ben. Trump capitalized on it, releasing an Instagram video on Friday the 13th, which described Carson as a violent criminal or a pathological liar. We dont need either as president, the Trump ad boasted. Losing ground thanks to some sluggish debate performances, pronouncing Hamas like hummus, the chickpea-based spread, when talking foreign policy and suggesting the pyramids in Egypt were built to store grain, Carsons 2015 holiday season consisted of a pretty big staff shake-up. Ben Carson's campaign was at a high point in November, but has been plagued by negative news stories, about the candidate and the inner-workings of the campaign, ever since Carson called two batches of reporters, from the Associated Press and the Washington Post, to his home unbeknownst to his campaign manager Barry Bennett. To those reporters he hinted that he might make some changes in staffing to his campaign. The retired neurosurgeon then immediately went on CNN and told Don Lemon that he wasnt firing anyone. That was over Christmas. Before the ball dropped to mark 2016 Carsons campaign announced enhancements, with Bennett and Communications Director Doug Watts resigning effective immediately. More than 20 other staffers followed the duo out the door. The campaign moved retired general Bob Dees, who was Carson's foreign policy adviser, into the role of campaign chairman. A senior strategist for Carson, Ed Brookover, became the campaign manager. 'As we enter a new phase of the campaign cycle, it is necessary to invigorate my campaign with a strategy that more aggressively shares my vision and world-view with the American people,' Carson said in the statement. 'I commend Barry Bennett and Doug Watts for their efforts to help me share my vision for America,' Carson said. Parting words aside, NBC News sources suggested the split was, in part, because of Bennett and Watts' inability to get along with Armstrong, a longtime business adviser of the candidate. After the shake-up the campaign, again, never gained back its footing. When CNN reported that Carson planned to head to Florida - to pick up more clothes for the campaign trail - just a day after the Iowa caucuses, Ted Cruzs volunteers spread the misinformation that Carson was on the cusp of dropping out, trying to recruit his voters to choose Cruz, another evangelical favorite, on their Iowa ballot instead. The move may have helped Cruz, who won the Iowa caucuses in a somewhat surprising victory over Donald Trump, who had led there since Carsons November fall and had only been neck-and-neck with the Texas senator in recent weeks. The gossip didnt do any favors to Carson who came in fourth. In the next two contests, New Hampshire and South Carolina, Carson came in last. Carson made another controversial comment last week, that President Obama was 'raised white' and didn't embody the typical black American experience, in the run-up to Nevada's caucuses. He returned to the fourth place position in that state, though this time in a field of just five candidates, and again pledged to stay in the race. If you remember the story of the tortoise and the hare, Carson said during several media appearances Tuesday before the caucus results came in. If you give up on the tortoise too early, youre only going to have the hare who is exhausted and not very effective, he said on Fox & Friends. Jeb Bush had used a similar line to explain to reporters his style of campaigning. A shocking video has emerged from China of the moment a man aggressively beat a little boy because he lost at ping pong to his young opponent. The 11-year-old child, known as Xu, was thrown to the floor and attacked in Dongsanyao village, Shaanxi Province, on February 27, reports the Peoples Daily Online. Xu had reportedly won several games of ping pong, which led to the attack. He is now recovering in hospital. The attacker fled the scene and police are trying to trace his whereabouts. Brutal: A random stranger attacked an 11-year-old boy at a ping pong hall in Dongsanyao village on Saturday Vicious: 11-year-old Xu suffered from serious injuries and needed to be hospitalised after the attack in China The man, who remains unidentified, frequently played ping pong in the area, which is on the outskirts of the city of Xi'an. On the day of the attack, he had sparred over several games with Xu and lost. When the boy told him to play faster, the man was said to have become frustrated, which led to the attack. The video footage shows the man aggressively grabbing Xu and slamming him onto the floor head first. He picks the boy up a second time and throws him onto the concrete again when the boy ran back towards him. Xu looked like a rag doll while being tossed around by the stranger. As he is being beaten, Xu is completely helpless as the fully grown man is a lot stronger and bigger than him. After the attack the man was seen fleeing the scene. The incident has stunned and angered the village committee in charge of the yard where the children were playing ping pong. Random: Witnesses did not know who the man was but said he looked extremely angry wearing black clothes Speaking to local reporters, staff at the courtyard said the attack happened so quickly they didn't see it coming. An alarm was quickly raised, which scared off the man. Xus injuries were so bad he needed to go to the local hospital for treatment. According to the report, Xu suffered from a hematoma (blood clots) in his forehead, facial abrasions, intracranial bleeding and frontal bone fracturing. Witnesses have described the man as looking extremely bad tempered, wearing glasses and black clothes. Vehicles damaged in Tianjin explosions last year are now being sold and 'laundered' through Chinese car auctions, despite manufacturers promising that they would never hit the market. A car dealership in the coastal city of Qingdao, Shandong Province, sold a batch of 150 restored Jeep Grand Cherokees in just three hours, reports Huanqiu.com, an affiliate of the Peoples Daily Online. Similar auctions have also been rumoured in other parts of the country. But Chinese experts are warning that manufacturers will have no responsibility for any faults that may arise and they could fall foul of insurance small print. Carnage: Around 20,000 vehicles were damaged or destroyed in the Tianjin blasts on August 12, 2015 Devastation: The Tianjin blast claimed the lives of 173 people on August 12 last year and destroyed the area Restored: Hundreds of the cars destroyed in the blast have reportedly been restored and sold at auction A total of 20,000 cars parked near the deadly Tianjin blast, which claimed the lives of 173 people on August 12 last year, were damaged or destroyed. At the time, these manufacturers pledged that the damaged cars would never be restored and sold on the market. It has since emerged that a small proportion of the vehicles sent to be destroyed have been restored by dealers and garages working together, according to Huanqiu. Restored Grand Cherokees, which would usually sell for 500,000 Yuan (55,000) in China when brand new, have been sold for as little as 300,000 Yuan (33,000) at the Qingdao auction on February 26. A similar auction of Grand Cherokees and Wranglers have also been sold at an auction in Tianjin on January 18. Due to concerns for the quality of these restored vehicles, the prices reached for the auction there only reached a maximum price of 200,000 Yuan (22,000). Money-maker: Chinese businessmen are earning a fortune by repairing the cars damaged in the Tianjin blast To the untrained eye, the repaired vehicles may seem brand new, and it is hard to know if they have been previously damaged. According to Beijing officials, these restored cars could be a serious health risk to consumers as it is possible they could spontaneously combust. The vehicle control and built in computer system could also have been damaged in the blast and not properly restored. The only way to check the status of the vehicles was to verify the vehicle identification number on the official website of the individual car brands. However, experts believe that the cars could be sold on to private owners after the initial auction, and over time the association with the Tianjin blasts could be lost. It is unclear if selling these damaged vehicles is illegal in China since they've been professionally restored. Revived: Repaired vehicles seem brand new, and it is hard to know if they have been previously damaged What is clear is that for anyone who purchases one of these cars, the manufacturer has no responsibility to repair them. What's more, any insurance bought for the vehicles may be invalidated. Chrysler China, the parent company for Jeep, issued a statement soon after stating that damaged vehicles were not eligible for manufacturers warranty. The company also published the vehicle identification numbers of 3,435 vehicles that were effectively blacklisted. A China Daily report stated that Chrysler did not take part in those auctions' but there was no procedure to stop the vehicles getting into the market in other means, giving unscrupulous dealers plenty of opportunity to profit. The matter is currently being investigated by officials from the transportation Shijiazhuang City of Industry Branch. MailOnline has reached out to Jeep for comment. A man has been caught with thousands of memory cards attached to his body after he tried to smuggle them into mainland China from Hong Kong. Customs officers stopped the unidentified man at the security check and discovered over 9,000 mobile phone cards tape to his body on February 26, reports the Peoples Daily Online. The cards - which were strapped to him with tape - are said to be worth 100,000 Yuan (10,000). Busted: This man was caught trying to smuggle 9,000 mobile phone cards into mainland china from Hong Kong Sneaky: He taped the cards tightly to his legs with sticky taped and hoped he could get passed border police The unidentified man was trying to get into Shenzhen city in Guangdong Province, south China. According to the report, customs officials said the man tried to bribe the guards on duty with 50,000 Yuan (5,000) when he was caught so that they would let him through. Earlier the same day, an elderly woman, who was said to be in her 80s, was stopped at the same border crossing, also trying to smuggle memory cards into mainland China. Officers noticed the unnamed woman walking a bit strangely past them, so they stopped her and found over 10,000 cards tied to her waist and legs. Caught red handed: Earlier that day on February 26 an elderly lady was caught trying to smuggle 10,000 cards Smuggling goods from Hong Kong into mainland China is not an uncommon sight for the border guards in Shenzhen. Electronic goods from Hong Kong are cheaper than they are across the border, and many people are busted with them taped to their bodies. In January last year, a man tried to smuggle 94 iPhones into mainland China by strapping them to his body. Pictures surfaced of the man with his trousers down and a large number of mobile phones taped to his torso and legs. He was seized by officers at the scene. London's market for millionaire homes has been hit by a slump in demand with prices for luxury new-build flats in the capital tipped to slide this year. Property consultancy JLL has reversed its forecast that new-build central London developments would rise in price by 1 per cent this year and is now forecasting a 3 per cent decline. The property market has moved on since these top-end apartments were in the initial planning stage and in high demand, with the appetite from wealthy buyers no longer as strong now they are being completed several years later. Million-pound flats boasting resident swimming pools and 24 hour concierges have sprung up across London. A residents' swimming pool is a feature in many of the new developments Million-pound flats that boast a residents' gym, swimming pool and 24 hour concierge would have once been a relatively rare luxury in London but are now becoming increasing prosaic. A raft of high-spec new developments are being built across the capital as part of a construction boom that arrived with the bounce back from the 2008 financial crisis. But demand for new build homes is already beginning to deteriorate and affecting prices, according to property group JLL. Industry experts cite key factors behind the dwindling demand, from global economic uncertainty to the increase in stamp duty for properties valued above 937,500. The rise in stamp duty for more expensive properties means buyers now pay 153,750 on a 2million property, which is 53,750 more than under the old stamp duty regime. For 5million properties, this climbs to an additional 163,750. The Government denies that the overhaul of stamp duty has hit the top end of the property market, where it says 'transaction levels remain constant'. This is despite announcing a 15 per cent increase in stamp duty receipts from homes costing more than 1million. There is also the issue of an extra 3 per cent stamp duty on buy-to-let properties and second homes from April and the forthcoming reduction in the tax relief available to landlords. Luxury flats often provide a well-equipped gym and spa on site for residents The Government is introducing an extra 3 per cent stamp duty on buy-to-let properties from April. Jeremy Leaf, a former RICS chairman and North London estate agent, has already seen a drop in sales, saying: 'Since the previous stamp duty changes in December 2014, sales of property costing more than 1.5m have reduced significantly. Poll Is London's property market overheating? Yes No Is London's property market overheating? Yes 312 votes No 62 votes Now share your opinion 'Perhaps more surprisingly, the supply of affordable homes seems to be dropping too. This is because the profit on flats over 1.5m on larger schemes often finances affordable housing in the same development.' He goes on to explain that many flats are sold 'off-plan' to investors one or two years before completion which meets developers' pre-sale covenants to their lenders while the cash generated helps to get building started. He added: 'The imminent stamp duty increase will only further reduce market activity and the supply of affordable homes - especially in London and other city centres.' Andrew Frost, head of residential research at JLL, agrees that the Government measures will end up adversely affecting those it is aiming to help, saying: 'By including new build property within the 3 per cent stamp duty increase, the Government has directly undermined its own priority to boost housing supply. 'The change has made higher-density schemes demonstrably more risky.' Africa's Garamba Park was once home to 500 northern white rhinos, more than 20,000 elephants and 350 giraffes. Today the rhinos have been wiped out, there are less than 1,500 elephants and just 38 Kordofan giraffes remain in a region plagued with regional conflict, tough terrain and isolation. The situation is so dire, that if the park loses just five more of the tiny, rare giraffes, they will be unable to sustain themselves and would ultimately face extinction. Africa's Garamba Park was once home to 500 northern white rhinos, more than 20,000 elephants and 350 giraffes. Today the rhinos have been wiped out, there are less than 1,500 elephants and just 38 Kordofan giraffes (pictured) remain in a region plagued with regional conflict, tough terrain and isolation 'This is one of the most trouble-ridden parts of Africa,' said Chris Thouless of Save the Elephants, a conservation organisation. 'Simply, Garamba's survival is an absolute miracle.' When vet Pete Morkel first visited Garamba to put tracking collars on northern white rhinos in the 1990s, it was a different place. 'It was quite easy to see rhinos, there was a lot more elephant, a lot more hippo, just a lot more of everything,' said the 55-year old Namibian vet. THE TINY KORDOFAN GIRAFFE The Kordofan Giraffe is a subspecies of giraffe typically found in northern Cameroon, southern Chad, Central African Republic and possibly western Sudan. Compared to other subspecies, the Kordofan Giraffe has small, more irregular spots on the inner legs. There are an estimated 34 adult giraffes in Garamba park, split between two herds, with four young calves between them. Their skin is used for luxury goods and they produce enough meat to feed poachers for 'weeks' the experts claim. Advertisement In February last year, he put radio tracking collars on elephants and giraffes, darting the animals from a hovering helicopter. Eight giraffes and 28 elephants now have collars enabling conservationists to monitor their every movement and park rangers to track their whereabouts. The existence of the tiny Kordofan giraffe population, the last in Congo, is particularly precarious and special units are assigned to protect them. There are an estimated 34 adult giraffes in Garamba park, split between two herds, with four young calves between them. Their skin is used for luxury goods and they produce enough meat to feed poachers for 'weeks' the experts claim. When conservation non-profit African Parks took over management of Garamba in 2005, it was too late to save the northern white rhino, now the struggle is to protect what's left. The tiny Kordofan giraffe population is the last in Congo (pictured). There are an estimated 34 adult giraffes in Garamba Park, split between two herds, with four young calves between them. Their skin is used for luxury goods and they produce enough meat to feed poachers for 'weeks' the experts claim Garamba was established in 1938, making it the continent's second oldest park after Virunga to the south. In 1980 Garamba was made a World Heritage Site, but a quarter of a century later the rhinos the designation was intended to protect were gone In February last year, conservationists put radio tracking collars on elephants and giraffes, darting the animals from a hovering helicopter. Eight giraffes and 28 elephants now have collars enabling the experts to monitor their every movement and park rangers to track their whereabouts Garamba was established in 1938, making it the continent's second oldest park after Virunga to the south. Old black and white photographs are all that remains of a once famous elephant domestication programme. They show white men in pith helmets sitting on an elephant-drawn plough, or regal upon a horse in sparkling jodhpurs with elephants and locals lined up in neat rows on either side like a coronation scene from Jean de Brunhoff's cartoon 'Babar'. In 1980 Garamba was made a World Heritage Site, but a quarter of a century later the rhinos the designation was intended to protect were gone. Today the presence of vehicles and people is rare - and because of poachers, sometimes deadly - so the animals are 'skittish'. The park costs around $3 million (2.7 million euros) a year to run, much of that donated by the European Union, so conservationists are considering other schemes to help fund Garamba, such as a hydroelectric dam on one of the park's many rivers, selling power to nearby mining operations Today the presence of vehicles and people is rare - and because of poachers, sometimes deadly - so the animals are 'skittish'. A young female elephant lies sedated as Garamba National Park rangers attach a GPS collar to track her movements The park costs around $3 million (2.7 million euros) a year to run, much of that donated by the European Union, so conservationists are considering other schemes to help fund Garamba, such as a hydroelectric dam on one of the park's many rivers, selling power to nearby mining operations. But before any of that can happen the park must be secured. 'There's been a massive improvement in law enforcement within Garamba but elephants are still being killed at an unsustainable rate,' said Thouless. He manages the Elephant Crisis Fund, which was kick-started by a million dollar donation from actor Leonardo DiCaprio in 2014, and disburses emergency money to protect threatened elephant populations, including in Garamba. Creativity isn't just about using your imagination. Highly creative people use two parts of the brain, one responsible for imagination and another for attention and memory, at the same time, according to research. Contrary to the popular belief that the right side of our brains control creativity, creative processes use the whole brain, psychologist Dr Scott Kaufman and health writer Carolyn Gregoire claim. Highly creative people use two parts of the brain, one responsible for imagination and another for attention and memory, at the same time, according to new research. Contrary to the popular belief that the right side of our brains control creativity, creative processes use the whole brain, claims psychologist The pair has explained their findings on a blog for Quartz. In 2001, neurologist Marcus Raichle identified a network in the brain called the imagination network, which is important for creativity. It uses surface of the brain in the frontal, parietal and temporal lobes. '[This network] appears to be most active when we're engaged in what researchers call self-generated cognition: daydreaming, ruminating, or otherwise letting our minds wander,' said Kauffman and Gregoire. 'The imagination network allows people to construct meaning from their experiences, remember the past, think about the future, imagine other people's perspectives and alternative scenarios, understand stories, and reflect on mental and emotional,' they said. The processes associated with this brain network are also critical to developing compassion. But the imagination network doesn't work on its own. FOUR WAYS TO BOOST YOUR CREATIVITY Contrary to the popular belief the right side of our brains control creativity, creative processes use the whole brain Psychologist Dr Scott Kaufman says on his blog that there are four ways to boost your creativity. He recommends: Making time for solitude. Being on your own allows you to daydream constructively and think about the meaning of your life, he says. Thinking differently on purpose. Kaufman says creative people don't tend to conform or try to be crowd-pleasers. Trying 'open-monitoring' meditation. This is a type of meditation in which you are receptive to your thoughts and emotions without focusing intensely on breathing. Research by Italian cognitive scientist Lorenza Colzato and her colleagues showed this type of meditation is particularly effective for creative thinking. Embracing adversity. Many highly creative people use setbacks in their life to their advantage. Advertisement It works with the brain's executive network, responsible for controlling attention and working memory. The executive network helps to focus imagination, blocking out external distractions and allowing people to tune in to our inner experience. The brains of creative people are particularly skilled at intricately combining the two brain networks, which are sometimes at odds to each other. This means they can juggle two very different kinds of thoughts at once, cognitive and emotional. The brains of creative people are particularly skilled at intricately combining the two brain networks, which normally work at odds to each other. This means creative people can juggle two very different kinds of thoughts at once, cognitive and emotional The question of what makes people creative has been studied for years. In the 1960s, psychologist and creativity researcher Frank X. Barron conducted a series of experiments on some of in an attempt to pin down what creative genius actually is. CREATIVITY IN MUSICIAN'S BRAINS Researchers in California tracked the brain activity of individuals who engage in creative improvisation, like freestyle rappers, musicians, and caricature artists. Using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), the team monitored the activity of the brain's dorsolateral prefrontal cortex (DLPFC), which helps to plan and monitor behaviour. The researchers, found that the different emotions triggered varying responses of DLPFC deactivation. While there was more DLPFC deactivation seen during the positive improvisation, the negative creativity showed greater activation in the reward regions of the brain, connecting the behaviours with pleasurable outcomes. Advertisement Barron found that, contrary to conventional thought at the time, intelligence had only a modest role in creative thinking and that IQ alone could not explain the creative spark. The study showed creativity is informed by a whole host of intellectual, emotional, motivational and moral characteristics. Creativity can also spur a pleasurable outcome in the brain, and it does so using different mechanisms based on your emotions, according to a study published earlier this year. The study from the University of California, San Francisco found that the neural circuits of the brain work differently depending on which emotion is being actively expressed. Different emotions engage the brain's creativity network to varying degrees, triggering the activation or deactivation of the regions that control planning and reward. Kaufman explained on his blog that there are four ways to boost your creativity. The word 'gay' is blocked and a user said it was listed as 'bad word' The internet may make homework a breeze for youngsters, but many parents worry their children may stumble across something inappropriate when searching online. In a bid to solve this problem, a new search engine for children has launched called Kiddle. Results are filtered so only 'safe' sites are shown and descriptions are written in simple language. But it may not be as safe as it seems after tests reveal the occasional racy image can slip through the net, while searches containing 'bad words' are blocked - controversially including the word 'gay'. A new search engine for children has launched called Kiddle (screenshot of the homepage shown). Results are filtered so only 'safe' sites are shown and descriptions are written in simple language While Kiddle has not been created by Google, it uses the search engine's 'safe search mode', as well as human editors to weed out inappropriate content. 'Sites appearing in Kiddle search results satisfy family friendly requirements, as we filter sites with explicit or deceptive content,' the company explained. It uses the same colours as Google in its logo and a similar layout on its homepage too with the addition of a robot illustration. Under the heavily filtered system, the top three Kiddle search results show 'safe sites and pages written specifically for kids' with those shown 'handpicked and checked by Kiddle editors' the company said. While Kiddle has not been created by Google, it uses the search engine's 'safe search' mode, as well as editors to weed out inappropriate content. A search for Isis was blocked and yielded this message The company said: 'Sites appearing in Kiddle search results satisfy family friendly requirements, as we filter sites with explicit or deceptive content.' For example, a child-focused review of The Revenant is listed instead of a gory trailer or blow-by-blow account of the adult film HOW DOES KIDDLE WORK? Kiddle uses a combination of filtering by Google safe search and editors to ensure no explicit content is shown in search results. Its 'guard robot' blocks some searches, such as 'porn' completely. The first three results shown are typically safe sites 'written specifically for kids' the company says on its 'about' page. The results are checked by human editors. The fourth to seventh results are usually not written specially for children but have content that is simple to understand. Results eight and onwards tend to be from sites intended for adults. Advertisement MailOnline observed many top results for celebrities come from biography.com. Kiddle's 'about' page says that results typically fourth to seventh on a page will be 'safe, trusted sites that are not written specifically for kids, but have content written in a simple way'. They too are said to be picked and checked by Kiddle editors. Results listed eighth and onwards are 'safe, famous sites that are written for adults, providing expert content, but are harder for kids to understand,'it says. For example, a search for Khloe Kardashian and Miley Cyrus produces less raunchy results on Kiddle than it does on a normal Google search. When searching for 'meow meow', Google produces pages of information about the drug, but Kiddle lists information about cats, including a cartoon featuring 'Henrietta Pussycat'. Typing in 'Isis' produces no results at all in Kiddle, with the search engine saying: 'Oops, looks like your query contained some bad words. Please try again!' The odd racy image, of Pamela Anderson, for example, does slip through the net and some searches containing 'bad words' are blocked - controversially including 'gay' (screenshot shown above) When searching for meow meow, Google produces pages of information about the drug, but Kiddle lists information about cats (results shown above) Under the filtered system, the top three Kiddle search results show 'safe sites and pages written specifically for kids' with those shown 'handpicked and checked by Kiddle editors' the company says. In comparison, this is Google's listing for the term 'meow meow' which only yielded information about cats on Kiddle However, controversially, the site blocks the word 'gay' too, with one Twitter user claiming the search term was described as a 'bad word'. When MailOnline used the same search term, it returned the message: 'Sorry we can't help you with this query. Please try again. The company told MailOnline this is the usual response to such a query. ' We have nothing against LGBT community, but such search terms as "gay" bring up many links that are very hard to verify against family friendly standards for artificial intelligence, especially when it comes to image and video sections,' it said. 'We had many complaints when we had search these terms open. 'For kids, such topics are better searched upon parental and teacher supervision.' Kiddle also blocks explicit search terms such as 'porn' as well as certain celebrities whose names could lead to adult content being displayed. A few racy images do slip through the net, though, with a thumbnail of Pamela Anderson showing the actress wearing her famous Baywatch swimsuit, for example. It's also been reported that searches for Vanessa Hudgens brought up naked image references, but MailOnline did not find this. Just heard of a "search engine for kids" called Kiddle. I was disappointed on my very first search. Yikes! pic.twitter.com/1KKlXPbbqy Nate Smith (@nthdesign) February 28, 2016 A few racy images do slip through the net, with a thumbnail of Pamela Anderson showing the actress wearing her famous Baywatch swimsuit, for example. A screenshot of a search result on Kiddle is shown above Twitter user Nate Smith in Pennsylvania searched for 'rabbits' only to find mention of a pet being killed. A Kiddle spokesman told MailOnline: 'Since Kiddle uses Google's Safe Search technology as part of our algorithms, sometimes a questionable link (mostly PG-13) comes through.' It said results such as the Vanessa Hudgens naked image mention, 'slipped through the safe search filers'. The company, based in the US and the Netherlands, said it removed them an hour after complaints were submitted through its feedback system. 'At 300,000 searches a day Kiddle is getting, such complaints are rare and violating pages and sites are quickly removed by our editors,' the spokesman added. Unlike on Google, most results are accompanied with large thumbnail pictures to make it easier for children to find what they are looking for. A large Arial font is used that is designed to be easy to read. The new Kiddle search engine tells kids that "gay" and "lesbian" are "bad words." So NOT okay. pic.twitter.com/Wtvxejn6Kn Robin Stevenson (@robin_stevenson) February 29, 2016 There are reportedly numerous benefits of speaking a second, third or fourth language, but being bilingual may not always give you the mental edge over those who only speak their mother tongue. A study has found that people who speak just the one language may actually have better judgement and insight than their bilingual counterparts. When people had to judge their own performance in tests, those with just a single language were better able to self-assess. A study has found that people who speak just the one language may actually have better judgement and insight than their bilingual counterparts. Stock image of school children learning French Researchers from the Universities of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin claim that the findings provide new insight into the differences between those who speak one or two languages, with bilinguals at a disadvantage. A total of 62 people half monolingual and the other half bilingual were asked to perform two quick-fire computer-based tasks, in which they judged which of two circles onscreen contained more dots. In addition, they were asked to rate how confident they were that their decision was correct. When the scores were tallied up, the researchers found that bilinguals were around 10 per cent less accurate at assessing their performance, when compared to the single language group. The findings are published in the journal Cognition. When scores were tallied up, researchers found that bilinguals were around 10 per cent less accurate at assessing their performance when compared to the single language group. Stock image Researchers from the Universities of Cambridge and Anglia Ruskin, who carried out the study, said the findings provide new insight into the differences between those who speak one or two languages - such as English and Cymru (pictured) - with bilinguals at a disadvantage. Stock image MONOLINGUALS HAVE THE EDGE A total of 62 people half monolingual and the other half bilingual were asked to perform two quick-fire computer-based tasks, in which they judged which of two circles onscreen contained more dots. In addition, they were asked to rate how confident they were that their decision was correct. When the scores were tallied up, the researchers found that bilinguals were around 10 per cent less accurate at assessing their performance, when compared to the single language group. Advertisement 'The results are somewhat against our initial predictions,' Dr Roberto Filippi, director of the Multi-language and Cognition Lab (MULTAC) at Anglia Ruskin University, told The Telegraph. 'We often observe a bilingual advantage in attentional processing, and we thought that this advantage would extend to decision-making and metacognitive processing. 'However, this does not seem to be the case. We found a possible bilingual disadvantage in metacognitive processing. 'Nobody has previously investigated the effect of second language acquisition on decision-making.' However, in a similar study published earlier this month, Dr Filippi and fellow Anglia researcher Professor Peter Bright found that bilingual speakers may have an advantage when it comes to spotting unknown differences between images. A number of monolingual and bilingual speakers were asked to perform two quick-fire computer-based tasks, in which they judged which of two circles onscreen contained more dots (pictured left). In addition, they were asked to rate how confident they were that their decision was correct (pictured right) LEARNING A NEW LANGUAGE CAN PREVENT ONSET OF DEMENTIA Learning to speak a second language at any point in your life could help keep your brain sharp as you age, a study suggests. The University of Edinburgh detected a pattern of slower mental decline among the bilingual in a group of 835 born in 1936. They were given an intelligence test in 1947 at the age of 11, then retested in their early 70s between 2008 and 2010. A total of 262 participants could communicate in at least one language other than English. Of those, 195 learnt the second language before the age of 18. Those who spoke two or more languages had significantly better cognitive abilities in their 70s than their peers. The strongest effect of bilingualism was seen in general intelligence and reading tests. 'Our study shows that bilingualism, even when acquired in adulthood, may benefit the ageing brain,' study authors said. Advertisement When people were presented with two onscreen images and asked to hit a key when they spotted a difference between them, bilinguals were seen to react faster than single language speakers. The results showed that on average the bilinguals were 11 per cent more accurate and spotted the differences almost three seconds faster, indicating a boost in selective attention where bilingual speakers can block out 'noise'. Dr Filippi explained: 'A possible interpretation for this advantage is that bilingual speakers, in order to process one language, need to suppress the other.' He added: 'This constant inhibitory 'mental work-out' could in turn strengthen general cognitive processes such as memory and attention, helping bilingual speakers block distracting information.' According to the researchers, this could even explain why people who speak an additional language may even have some protection against cognitive decline and neurodegenerative disease in later life. Hunters may have held up lizards to make prints - but it is not known why New study has found hands are too small and fingers too long to be human Found 13 prints they believed were created by the hands of human babies A study of 13 tiny hand imprints in a Saharan cave have revealed that they are not human. Amateur explorers stumbled across the 'Cave of Beasts' in 2002, in the vast, empty desert near Egypt's southwest border with Libya. The cave, which is also known as Wadi Sura II, includes 5,000 images that were painted or engraved into stone around 8,000 years ago. Among the images are what were believed to be stencilled hands and feet of children but new research now claims they may have been created by lizards. A study of tiny hand imprints in a Saharan cave have revealed that they are not human. Amateur explorers stumbled across the cave in 2002, in the vast, empty desert near Egypt's southwest border with Libya and Sudan. In this image the 'baby' print is shown in the center of the larger adult hand Anthropologist Emmanuelle Honore of the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research said she was stunned when she saw the shape of the small prints. 'They were much smaller than human baby hands, and the fingers were too long,' she told National Geographic. Honore compared measurements taken from the hand outlines in the cave with those taken from the hands of newborn human infants of around 37 to 41 weeks old. She also included measurements taken from newborn premature babies that were 26 to 36 weeks old. The cave, which is also known as Wadi Sura II, includes 5,000 images that were painted or engraved into stone around 8,000 years earlier. Among the images are what was believed to be stencilled hands and feet of children but new research now claims they may have been created by lizards Scientists said there is an 'extremely low probability' that the hands in the Cave of the Beasts were human Honore discovered that there is an 'extremely low probability' that the hands in the Cave of the Beasts were human. Instead, she believe they may have been created by the forelegs of desert monitor lizards or, possibly, the feet of young crocodiles. If her analysis is correct, then this is the first time such animal imprints have been discovered in the Sahara desert. '[This raises new perspectives for understanding the rock art at Wadi Sura, and the behaviour and symbolic universe of the populations who made it,' she writes in her study, published in the journal Archaeological Science THE DISCOVERY OF EGYPT'S 'CAVE OF BEASTS' Amateur explorers stumbled across the cave in 2002, in the vast, empty desert near Egypt's southwest border with Libya and Sudan Amateur explorers stumbled across the cave in 2002, in the vast, empty desert near Egypt's southwest border with Libya and Sudan. The cave, which is also known as Wadi Sura II, includes 5,000 images that were painted or engraved into stone around 8,000 years earlier. The 'Cave of Beasts' is 6 miles (10 km) from the 'Cave of the Swimmers' romanticised in the film the 'English Patient', but with far more, and better preserved, images. The Eastern Sahara, a region the size of Western Europe that extends from Egypt into Libya, Sudan and Chad, is the world's largest warm, dry desert. About 8500 BC, seasonal rainfall appeared in the region, attracting hunter-gatherers. By 5300 BC, the rains had stopped and human settlements receded to highland areas. By 3500 BC, the settlements disappeared entirely. The mass exodus corresponds with the rise of sedentary life along the Nile that later blossomed into pharaonic civilisation that dominated the region for thousands of years. Advertisement The cave also included drawings of hunter gatherers (shown) and headless beasts. In total, around 5,000 drawings were found Researchers believe the 'hand prints' may have been created by the forelegs of desert monitor lizards (pictured) or, possibly, the feet of young crocodiles Anthropologist Emmanuelle Honore (right) of the McDonald Institute for Archaeological Research said she was stunned when she saw the shape of the unusually small prints The 'Cave of Beasts' is 6 miles (10 km) from the 'Cave of the Swimmers', but with far more, and better preserved, images. The Eastern Sahara, a region the size of Western Europe that extends from Egypt into Libya, Sudan and Chad, is the world's largest warm, dry desert. Rainfall in the desert's centre averages less than 2 millimetres a year, but the region was once much less arid. About 8500 BC, seasonal rainfall appeared in the region, attracting hunter-gatherers. By 5300 BC, the rains had stopped and human settlements receded to highland areas. By 3500 BC, the settlements disappeared entirely. The mass exodus corresponds with the rise of sedentary life along the Nile that later blossomed into pharaonic civilisation that dominated the region for thousands of years. It is believed hunter gathers held up the creatures to make the prints, many of which were found alongside adult sized human hand stencils. But according to the National Geographic, Honore is reluctant to speculate on why such a civilisation would imprint the legs of animals on their cave walls. 'It's very challenging for us as researchers to interpret these paintings since we have a culture that's totally different [from the one that created it],' she said. Honore is reluctant to speculate on why such a civilisation would imprint the legs of animals on their cave walls. 'It's very challenging for us as researchers to interpret these paintings since we have a culture that's totally different [from the one that created it],' she said. The shelter is located in the Wadi Sura at the south-western foot of the Gilf Kebir Mountains in the remote south-western corner of Egypts New Valley Governorate near the border of Libya and Sudan It is believed hunter gathers held up the creatures to make the prints, many of which were found alongside adult sized human hand stencils (pictured) Advertisement Nasa has begun wind tunnel testing of a radical supersonic passenger plane. Called the Quiet Supersonic Technology (QueSST) X-plane, it is being built by Lockheed Martin. The space agency this week began testing a nine percent scale model of Lockheed Martin's X-plane design in Cleveland, amid hopes a full size version could fly in 2020. Scroll down for video Mechanical technician Dan Pitts prepares a nine percent scale model of Lockheed Martins Quiet Supersonic Technology (QueSST) X-plane preliminary design for its first high-speed wind tunnel tests at NASA's Glenn Research Center in Cleveland. The plane is being build by Lockheed Martin based of a 'silent boom' design perfected by Lockheed's Skunk Works over 20 years BANISH THE BOOM Nasa's Commercial Supersonic Technology Project asked industry teams to submit design concepts for a piloted test aircraft that can fly at supersonic speeds, creating a supersonic 'heartbeat' - a soft thump rather than the disruptive boom currently associated with supersonic flight Advertisement QueSST is designed to fly at Mach 1.4, 55,000 feet above the ground. The aircraft is shaped to separate the shocks and expansions associated with supersonic flight to reduce the volume of the shaped signature, and was developed by Lockheed's Skunk Works over 20 years. During the next eight weeks, engineers will expose the model to wind speeds ranging from Mach 0.3 to Mach 1.6 (approximately 150 to 950 mph) to understand the aerodynamics of the X-plane design as well as aspects of the propulsion system. The project is the first in a series of 'X-planes' in NASA's New Aviation Horizons initiative, introduced in the agency's Fiscal Year 2017 budget NASA expects the QueSST X-plane to pave the way for supersonic flight over land in the not too distant future. 'We'll be measuring the lift, drag and side forces on the model at different angles of attack to verify that it performs as expected,' said aerospace engineer Ray Castner, who leads propulsion testing for NASA's QueSST effort. 'We also want to make sure the air flows smoothly into the engine under all operating conditions.' The Glenn wind tunnel is uniquely suited for the test because of its size and ability to create a wide range of wind speeds. 'We need to see how the design performs from just after takeoff, up to cruising at supersonic speed, back to the start of the landing approach,' said David Stark, the facility manager. 'The 8' x 6' supersonic wind tunnel allows us to test that sweet spot range of speeds all in one wind tunnel.' Recent research has shown it is possible for a supersonic airplane to be shaped in such a way that the shock waves it forms when flying faster than the speed of sound can generate a sound at ground level so quiet it will hardly will be noticed by the public, if at all. 'Our unique aircraft design is shaped to separate the shocks and expansions associated with supersonic flight, dramatically reducing the aircraft's loudness,' said Peter Losifidis, QueSST program manager at Lockheed Martin Skunk Works. The Quiet Supersonic Technology (QueSST) could takeoff in 2020 if funding is approved, and will have a supersonic 'heartbeat' rather than one large boom, it is hoped. 'Our design reduces the airplane's noise signature to more of a 'heartbeat' instead of the traditional sonic boom that's associated with current supersonic aircraft in flight today.' According to Dave Richwine, NASA's QueSST preliminary design project manager, 'This test is an important step along the path to the development of an X-plane that will be a key capability for the collection of community response data required to change the rules for supersonic overland flight.' The design and build phases for the NAH aircraft will be staggered over several years with the low boom flight demonstrator starting its flight campaign around 2020, with other NAH X-planes following in subsequent years, depending on funding. The agency said the return of supersonic passenger air travel is one step closer to reality with the award of a contract for the preliminary design of a 'low boom' flight demonstration aircraft. Bolden announced the award at an event Monday at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Virginia. 'NASA is working hard to make flight greener, safer and quieter all while developing aircraft that travel faster, and building an aviation system that operates more efficiently,' said Bolden. 'To that end, it's worth noting that it's been almost 70 years since Chuck Yeager broke the sound barrier in the Bell X-1 as part of our predecessor agency's high speed research. 'Now we're continuing that supersonic X-plane legacy with this preliminary design award for a quieter supersonic jet with an aim toward passenger flight.' 'Developing, building and flight testing a quiet supersonic X-plane is the next logical step in our path to enabling the industry's decision to open supersonic travel for the flying public,' said Jaiwon Shin, associate administrator for NASA's Aeronautics Research Mission. Lockheed Martin will receive about $20 million over 17 months for QueSST preliminary design work. The Lockheed Martin team includes subcontractors GE Aviation of Cincinnati and Tri Models Inc. of Huntington Beach, California. The company will develop baseline aircraft requirements and a preliminary aircraft design, with specifications, and provide supporting documentation for concept formulation and planning. This documentation would be used to prepare for the detailed design, building and testing of the QueSST jet. THE ENGINEERING ICON THAT FLEW PASSENGERS FROM LONDON TO NEW YORK IN JUST THREE-AND-A-HALF HOURS Concorde was a turbojet-powered supersonic passenger jet that was operated until 2003. It had a maximum speed over twice the speed of sound at Mach 2.04 (1,354 mph or 2,180 k per hour at cruise altitude) and could seat 92 to 128 passengers. It was first flown in 1969, but needed further tests to establish it as viable as a commercial aircraft. Concorde entered service in 1976 and continued flying for the next 27 years. The aircraft is regarded by many as an aviation icon and an engineering marvel, but it was also criticized for being uneconomical, lacking a credible market, and consuming more fuel to carry fewer passengers than a Boeing 747. Twenty aircraft were built including six prototypes and development aircraft. It is one of only two supersonic transports to have been operated commercially. The other is the Soviet-built Tupolev Tu-144, which ran for a much shorter period of time before it was grounded and retired due to safety and budget issues. Concorde was jointly developed and manufactured by Aerospatiale and the British Aircraft Corporation (BAC) under an Anglo-French treaty. Concorde's name, meaning harmony or union, reflects the cooperation on the project between the United Kingdom and France. In the UK, any or all of the type are known simply as 'Concorde', without an article. Twenty aircraft were built including six prototypes and development aircraft. Air France (AF) and British Airways (BA) each received seven aircraft. The research and development failed to make a profit and the two airlines bought the aircraft at a huge discount. Among other destinations, Concorde flew regular transatlantic flights from London Heathrow and Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport to New York-JFK, Washington Dulles and Barbados. It flew these routes in less than half the time of other airliners. Over time, the aircraft became profitable when it found a customer base willing to pay for flights on what was for most of its career the fastest commercial airliner in the world. The aircraft is regarded by many as an aviation icon and an engineering marvel, but it was also criticized for being uneconomical, lacking a credible market, and consuming more fuel to carry fewer passengers than a Boeing 747. Concorde was retired in 2003 due to a general downturn in the commercial aviation industry after the type's only crash in 2000, the September 11 attacks in 2001, and a decision by Airbus, the successor to Aerospatiale and BAC, to discontinue maintenance support. Advertisement Performance of this preliminary design also must undergo analytical and wind tunnel validation. In addition to design and building, this Low Boom Flight Demonstration (LBFD) phase of the project also will include validation of community response to the new, quieter supersonic design. The detailed design and building of the QueSST aircraft, conducted under the NASA Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate's Integrated Aviation Systems Program, will fall under a future contract competition. NASA's 10-year New Aviation Horizons initiative has the ambitious goals of reducing fuel use, emissions and noise through innovations in aircraft design that departs from the conventional tube-and-wing aircraft shape. The New Aviation Horizons X-planes will typically be about half-scale of a production aircraft and likely are to be piloted. Design-and-build will take several years with aircraft starting their flight campaign around 2020, depending on funding. The details of Nasa's plan to get achieve this are outlined in President Obama's recently released federal budget for 2016. If funding is approved, the first flights of the new X-planes could begin sometime around 2020. The X-planes were a celebrated part of post-war aviation, helping Nasa break the sound barrier. Now, the space agency is planning to revive its historic 'X-plane' division to make commercial flights dramatically cleaner, quieter, and even faster. Pictured are some of the concept aircraft Thanks to recent results coming out of six years of technology demonstrations done with other government agencies, industry and academia, Nasa says it's now ready to enter X-plane territory. The demos included advancements in lightweight composite materials that are needed to create revolutionary aircraft structures. They also tested an advanced fan design to improve propulsion and reduce noise in jet engines, designs to reduce noise from wing flaps and landing gear, and shape-changing wing flaps. Researchers predict the tech could save the airline industry $255 billion accrued during the first 25 years after being put into service. Thanks to recent results coming out of six years of technology demonstrations done with other government agencies, industry and academia, Nasa says it's now ready to enter X-plane territory. Pictured is a demo which successfully completed tests of flaps that can be changed to different angles during flight, reducing drag and noise A version of a hybrid wing body aircraft concept, pictured, has turbofan engines on top of the back end, flanked by two vertical tails to shield people on the ground from engine noise This truss-braced wing concept could be another subsonic X-plane design. Improving the flow leads to reduced fuel use and emissions, and less noise during takeoff, approach and landing A HISTORIC FLIGHT: THE X1 The Bell X-1, Nasa's first 'x-plane,' was the first aircraft to break the sound barrier Beginning in 1946, two XS-1 experimental research aircraft conducted pioneering tests at Muroc Army Air Field in California. These early tests culminated on October 14, 1947, in the first piloted flight faster than Mach 1.0, the speed of sound. The XS-1 was the first high-speed aircraft built purely for aviation research purposes. The model was never intended for production. The research techniques used in the X-1 program became the pattern for all subsequent X-craft projects. The NACA X-1 procedures and personnel also helped lay the foundation of America's space program in the 1960s. The X-1 project defined and solidified the post-war cooperative union between U.S. military needs, industrial capabilities, and research facilities. The flight data collected by the X-1 tests provided a basis for US aviation supremacy in the latter half of the 20th century. Advertisement 'We're at the right place, at the right time, with the right technologies,' said Jaiwon Shin, associate administrator for Nasa's Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate. 'The full potential of these technologies can't be realized in the tube-and-wing shape of today's aircraft,' he explained. 'We need the X-planes to prove, in an undeniable way, how that tech can make aviation more Earth friendly, reduce delays and maintain safety for the flying public, and support an industry that's critical to our nation's economic vitality.' One of the first X-planes is expected to be a hybrid wing body shape, where the familiar tube-and-wing instead becomes a wing that blends into the body. It flies the same speeds as commercial transport aircraft. Engines are on top of a fuselage that is itself revolutionary because of the shape and what's required to build it to withstand the stresses of flight. For the past decade, Nasa and partners have studied the performance and benefits of the hybrid wing body configuration using computers, wind tunnels and even subscale unpiloted flight tests. A lot of data is already in hand to inform an X-plane that will test the highest number of advanced technologies. Other X-planes will demonstrate specific technologies related to ultra-efficient subsonic aircraft designs in flight possibilities include very long but narrow wings, forms of electric propulsion, a double-wide fuselage, or engines embedded into the vehicle. And in a world 'first,' another X-plane will be a business-jet-sized supersonic vehicle that burns low carbon bio-fuels and generates such quiet sonic booms that people on the ground will barely hear them. The New Aviation Horizons X-planes will typically be about half-scale of a production aircraft, although some may be smaller or larger, and are likely to be piloted. Design-and-build will take several years, with vehicles going to flight starting around 2020 depending on funding. The 10-year plan also includes major field tests in collaboration with airlines, airports and the Federal Aviation Administration to continue improving air traffic flow in the air and on the ground at airports. Improving the flow leads to reduced fuel use and emissions, and less noise during takeoff, approach and landing. And Nasa will continue researching and testing technologies that could be used to safely integrate unmanned aircraft systems, or drones, into the airspace. 'This is an exciting time for the entire Nasa Aeronautics team and for those who benefit from aviation, which, frankly, is everyone,' Shin said. 'With this 10-year plan to accelerate the transformation of aviation, the United States can maintain its status as the world's leader in aviation for many years to come.' The X-15 took Nasa from supersonic to hypersonic, setting unofficial records for speed (Mach 6.7) and altitude 354,200 feet. The latest demos included advancements in lightweight composite materials that are needed to create revolutionary aircraft structures. The X-5 was the first plane with a swept wing design, so the planes could change position at any moment. The latest 10-year plan includes major field tests in collaboration with airlines, airports and the Federal Aviation Administration to continue improving air traffic flow in the air and on the ground at airports. The X-31 program tested the idea of using thrust vectoringdirecting engine exhaust as a form of steering. Nasa will continue researching and testing technologies that could be used to safely integrate unmanned aircraft systems, or drones, into the airspace For chimpanzees, a 'bromance' is an important social bond that can lower stress and lead to a longer life, researchers say. The bonds between male chimpanzees have been found to work as a buffer in social settings, making confrontations less stressful for a chimp who fights alongside a close partner. Researchers say that these friendships benefit both genders, and mirror the effects of close relationships among human social circles. Scroll down for video For chimpanzees, a 'bromance' is an important social bond that can lower stress and lead to a longer life, researchers say. The bonds between male chimpanzees have been found to work as a buffer in social settings, making confrontations less stressful for a chimp who fights alongside a close partner CHIMPANZEES HAVE FRIENDS TOO Many primates have been found have close friendships within their social groups, including chimpanzees, macaques, and baboons. These bonds share many characteristics with human friendships. Researchers have found that 'bromances' between male chimpanzees may work as a buffer in social settings. In a confrontation, the encounter will be less stressful for a chimp who fights alongside a close partner. The research reveals an increase in oxytocin among chimps in bonded pairs, and this hormone is known to mediate the mother-offspring bond, and that of sexual partners. Having close friends can help to strengthen alliances within a large group, and like in humans, chimp friendships are based on trust. Advertisement Adult male chimps can be extremely violent, but that doesn't mean they don't cozy up to their best friends. In a chimp bromance, closely bonded males will engage in cooperative behaviour, according to New Scientist, sharing food and even grooming vulnerable areas, including genitalia. And, chimpanzees aren't alone in this other primates, including macaques and baboons are also known to form close friendships. These friendships have been found to play an important role in the aggressive interactions of warring chimps. 'Chimpanzees are highly territorial and encounters with neighbouring groups tend to be very hostile and can be deadly,' said Catherine Crockford of the Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Anthropology in Leipzig, Germany, at the Ethological Society annual meeting in Gottingen, New Scientist reports. By tracking wild chimpanzees in Uganda and the Ivory Coast, the researchers found that after a fight, a chimp would be less stressed if a grooming partner had been present to back him up. To determine this, the researchers analysed glucocorticoid stress hormone levels in chimp's urine after a fight, according to New Scientist. Stress hormones in chimps are released from the adrenal glands due to the interactions of the 'hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. In cases of trauma or chronic stress, these interactions can veer off course. 'Dysregulation of the HPA axis can impair reproductive and immune function, disturb moods, cognition and social relationships, leading to poor health, social isolation, and early death,' Crockford said at the conference, New Scientist reports. Similar research on Barbary macaques by a team from the University of Gottingen found that the primates would have lowered glucocorticoid levels during a fight or cold temperatures when they have strong social bonds. Chimpanzees munch on leek at Tokyo's Tama Zoo. Adult male chimps can be extremely violent, but that doesn't mean they don't cozy up to their best friends. Closely bonded males will engage in cooperative behaviour, researchers say, sharing food and even grooming vulnerable areas, including genitalia The studies suggest that the close friendships help lower the stress associated with certain interactions, like an aggressive encounter. Friendship may occur as an evolutionary result of mother-infant bonding, according to Crockford. The research reveals an increase in oxytocin among chimps in bonded pairs, and this hormone is known to mediate the mother-offspring bond, and that of sexual partners. Friendship may occur as an evolutionary result of mother-infant bonding. The research reveals an increase in oxytocin among chimps in bonded pairs, and this hormone is known to mediate the mother-offspring bond, and that of sexual partners. Like in humans, chimp friendships are based on trust Having close friends can help to strengthen alliances within a large group. Like in humans, chimp friendships are based on trust, a recent study explains. The report, published in the journal Current Biology, examined the interactions of chimpanzees at Sweetwaters Sanctuary in Kenya over five months. Scientists identified each chimp's closest 'friend' by those who ate together and groomed each other and one of their 'non-friends.' The interactions between the chimps showed 'much greater trust between friends than non-friends,' according to the study. 'Chimpanzees were significantly more likely to voluntarily place resources at the disposal of a partner, and thus to choose a risky but potentially high-payoff option, when they interacted with a friend as compared to a non-friend,' the researchers said. Jan Engelmann, one of the scientists behind the study, said, 'Human friendships do not represent an anomaly in the animal kingdom. 'Other animals, such as chimpanzees, form close and long-term emotional bonds with select individuals. 'These animal friendships show important parallels with close relationships in humans. 'One shared characteristic is the tendency to selectively trust friends in costly situations.' We think of time as flowing seamlessly like a river from the present and into the future - but scientists claim this isn't the case. Quantum physicists argue that time operates in discrete units. They say these 'static' units of time then stack up to give the impression of time flowing in a similar way to a flicker book, or a film. The theory suggests that time travel could be possible, if discrete fixed moment in time exist that can be pinpointed in the future. Quantum physicists argue that it may be possible to divide time into the smallest unit physically possible. They say these 'static' units of time then stack up to give the impression of time flowing in a similar way to a flicker book, or a film WHAT IS THE PLANCK CONSTANT? In 1990, researchers introduced the idea of the Planck Constant, named after German theoretical physicist Max Planck. This describes the behaviour of particles and waves on the atomic scale, and breaks down time into the lowest possible unit of 10-43 seconds. this ultimate limit means that it is not possible for two events to be separated by a time smaller than this. Advertisement It also lends weight to the theory that there are earlier versions of ourselves trapped in a particular time-frame, according to the Express. In 1990, researchers introduced the idea of the Planck Constant, named after German theoretical physicist Max Planck. This describes the behaviour of particles and waves on the atomic scale, and breaks down time into the lowest possible unit of 10-43 seconds. According to a report in Phys.org, this ultimate limit means that it is not possible for two events to be separated by a time smaller than this. However, new research carried out at the University of Waterloo and University of Lethbridge, in Canada, argues there is a much longer measureable minimum unit of time. If true, the existence of such a minimum time changes the basic equations of quantum mechanics. This means our understanding of how the universe operates on a very small scale may need to reconsidered. The theory suggests that time travel could be possibly, if discrete fixed moment in time exist that can be pinpointed in the future 'It might be possible that, in the universe, the minimum time scale is actually much larger than the Planck time, and this can be directly tested experimentally,' Mir Faizal at the University of Waterloo told Phys.org. Because the Planck time is so short, no experiment has been able to prove it directly. But Faizal says there are a number of tests that can show how a unit of time is longer than Planck time, such as measuring the rate of spontaneous emission of a hydrogen atom. The new quantum mechanical equation predicts a different rate of spontaneous emission, which could help predict Planck time. HOW TECHNOLOGY IS SPEEDING UP OUR PERCEPTION OF TIME One day you're heading to the beach for a fun day in the sun and the next you're hanging lights and tinsel on a Christmas tree. It feels like time speeds up more and more every year, but it's actually technology speeding up our perception of time, one researcher says. Smartphones, tablets and other gadgets have trained our brains to process more information, tricking us into thinking time is passing faster than it really is, according to a recent study. 'I've found some indication that interacting with technology and technocentric societies has increased some type of pacemaker within us,' said James Cook University researcher Dr Aoife McLoughlin in a recent interview. 'While it might help us to work faster, it also makes us feel more pressured by time.' The study analyzed individuals who are always connected to technology and those who rarely used it, and compared how each perceived the passage of time. Findings indicated that those who were glued to screens overestimated the amount of time that had passed, compared to those that rarely used googled, posted or 'liked' anything. Also, the individuals who used technology regularly were more stressed because they were more likely to feel like time was running out. Advertisement Phys.org reports that the team believe time is more like a crystal structure, made up of discrete, regularly repeating segments. This means our perception of time something that is flowing is just an illusion. 'The physical universe is really like a movie/motion picture, in which a series of still images shown on a screen creates the illusion of moving images,' Faizal said. 'Thus, if this view is taken seriously, then our conscious precipitation of physical reality based on continuous motion becomes an illusion produced by a discrete underlying mathematical structure.' 'This proposal makes physical reality platonic in nature,' he said, referring to Plato's argument that true reality exists independent of our senses. The US Army is planning to deploy the first laser weapons in 2023, it has been revealed. Mary J. Miller, deputy assistant secretary of the Army for Research and Technology, told the House Armed Services Committee's Subcommittee on Emerging Threats and Capabilities 'I believe we're very close,' when asked how close the Army is to developing offensive and defensive directed-energy weapons. She said the programmes would be extensively tested as the Army wants to understand the lasers' full capabilities 'before we offer it to a Soldier.' Scroll down for video A laser at the Air Force Research Laboratory's Starfire Optical Range on a 6,240 foot hilltop at Kirtland Air Force Base, where the Army and Navy is developing its own laser weapons systems. 'It's being done in a 'step-wise demonstration of capability,' she said. 'We have to make sure the lasers work and do the full set of scopes against the threats we project. And those threats include the counter-rockets, counter-artillery and counter-mortar as well as [Unmanned Aerial Vehicle] and cruise missile threats.' Miller explained that the Army wants to understand the lasers' full capabilities 'before we offer it to a Soldier.' Operators need to trust what lasers can do, she added. 'Lasers have been promised for a long time, but they've never held up and delivered what was asked for, so the operators are rightfully skeptical,' she pointed out. 'That's why the Army is taking lasers out into operational environments and testing them. In the meantime, 'there will be steps along the way where we spin off lesser capable laser systems that can do good things on smaller platforms. 'Those will come out soon.' The Air Force said it was already flying prototype weapons. Dr. David Walker, deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for Science, Technology and Engineering, Office of the Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Acquisition, said the Air Force is working with Special Operations Command to develop an offensive laser that will be fitted to AFSOC AC-130 gunships. Part of that technology, he said, includes 'beam-steering and power and thermal management.' 'The Air Force is flying every day with lasers under its transport aircraft, using them as infrared countermeasure system,' so we too spun off lesser-capable laser systems and as we get larger power outputs and better thermal management out of smaller package lasers, we will build those powers into defensive to offensive capability as well,' Walker said. The Navy's science representative described similar laser programs for ships, subs and Marines. Air Force bosses have previously boasted combat lasers will be fitted to fighters planes by 2020. The U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory, or AFRL, is on track to demonstrate a working laser weapon on a fighter jet by 2020, it has revealed. 'It really is a national tipping point,' Kelly Hammett, chief engineer for the AFRL's directed energy directorate, told CNN. Initial trials of laser weapon revealed 'unprecedented power' of system, and it will now be tested against live targets at White Sands Missile Range in New Mexico this year (artist's impression shown) SHIELDS UP! The AFRL is also working on a defensive laser shield. A 360-degree laser 'bubble' would surround a U.S. warplane. That bubble would disable or destroy anything that comes inside, like a missile or another aircraft. To invent such a shield, you'd need a turret that doesn't interfere with the aerodynamics of the warplane. A turret like that has already been successfully tested in partnership with Lockheed Martin and DARPA, the Pentagon's Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. Advertisement 'We see the technology evolving and maturing to the stage where it really can be used.' The military hopes that the new generation of weapons could lead to radical changes in the way wars are fought, with planes having unlimited ammunition - as long as they have enough power. 'You could have an unlimited magazine ... loitering aircraft that could address and access a wide variety of targets, Hammett said. 'I believe we'll have a directed energy pod we can put on a fighter plane very soon,' Air Force General Hawk Carlisle has claimed at the Air Force Association Air & Space conference in a presentation on what he called Fifth-Generation Warfare, according to Ars Technica. 'That day is a lot closer than I think a lot of people think it is.' The US Navy has already deployed a laser weapon at sea aboard the USS Ponce, capable of a range of attacks against small boats, drones, and light aircraft posing a threat, by blinding sensors or operators or heating elements to make them fail or explode. Other laser weapons are also being tested by the Office of Naval Research for use on helicopters to protect against man-portable anti aircraft missiles. Directed-energy weapons pods could be affixed to aircraft to destroy or disable incoming missiles, drones, and even enemy aircraft at a much lower 'cost per shot' than missiles or even guns, Carlisle suggested. The front runner for the Air Force system is believed to be called the High-Energy Liquid Laser Area Defense System (HELLADS), and will create a laser small enough to be mounted on a plane, and is expected to be ready for use by 2020. General Atomics, the firm making, it, has revealed a full scale system is already under construction following tests. The AFRL is also working on a defensive laser shield. A 360-degree laser 'bubble' would surround a U.S. warplane. The weapons are expected to be used to shoot down drones. That bubble would disable or destroy anything that comes inside, like a missile or another aircraft. To invent such a shield, you'd need a turret that doesn't interfere with the aerodynamics of the warplane. A turret like that has already been successfully tested under Hammett at AFRL in partnership with Lockheed Martin and DARPA, the Pentagon's Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency. 'It's a huge deal,' Hammett said. Earlier this year the US Military Defence Advanced Research Projects Agency (Darpa) has revealed it has just completed the first tests of the system that could eventually see laser weapons added to drones and fighter jets. They say the weapons shows 'unprecedented power' and are about to begin testing it against live targets on firing ranges. 'The goal of the HELLADS program is to develop a 150 kilowatt (kW) laser weapon system that is ten times smaller and lighter than current lasers of similar power, enabling integration onto tactical aircraft to defend against and defeat ground threats,' Darpa says. It said the secretive trials 'demonstrated sufficient laser power and beam quality to advance to a series of field tests. 'The technical hurdles were daunting, but it is extremely gratifying to have produced a new type of solid-state laser with unprecedented power and beam quality for its size,' said Rich Bagnell, yhe projects program manager. White Sands Missile range, where the HELLADS laser system is set for field testing this summer. The laser was developed by DARPA performer General Atomics 'The HELLADS laser is now ready to be put to the test on the range against some of the toughest tactical threats our warfighters face.' Ground-based field testing of the HELLADS laser is now expected to begin this year as an effort jointly funded by DARPA and the Air Force Research Laboratory. Following the field-testing phase, the goal is to make the system available to the military Services for further refinement, testing or transition to operational use. The HELLADS program has been developing an electrically driven solid state laser at greatly reduced size and weight over lasers of similar power for tactical use. The laser was developed by DARPA performer General Atomics The weapons are expected to be used to shoot down drones. 'Enemy surface-to-air threats to manned and unmanned aircraft have become increasingly sophisticated, creating a need for rapid and effective response to this growing category of threats. 'High power lasers can provide a solution to this challenge, as they harness the speed and power of light to counter multiple threats.' However, they are also likely to be used on bombing raids to target precise locations. 'Laser weapon systems provide additional capability for offensive missions as welladding precise targeting with low probability of collateral damage.' George Clooney and his wife Amal checked into one of the new hotels on Zanzibar last summer - a boutique retreat hidden down a sandy path leading to an indigo ocean. This celebrity endorsement is significant. It confers on an island where sultans once ruled a kind of Papal blessing; a dash of A-list stardust. Until a few years ago, Tanzania's feted Indian Ocean island was largely seen as a destination for backpackers, albeit one with an intriguing history as an outpost of British colonial rule. David Livingstone used it as a base in his search for the source of the Nile. A blue-sky portion of paradise: Zanzibar offers beaches where the beauty of the scenery is astounding I have neither the great explorer's wanderlust, nor the Hollywood actor's star quality - but I, too, am lured by Zanizbar's reputation for being untouched. Rising at daybreak to walk along a deserted beach to the northerly fishing village of Nungwi, I watch fishermen still at work, hauling in a night catch of slippery, silver tuna and marlin: air still in their gills, nets around their fins. As the sun climbs, the fishermen shelter under palm trees to mend their nets. Women arrive at low tide, wearing brightly coloured kangas kimono-like wraps to collect seaweed to be made into creams. There are no jet-skis or kite-surfers. Zanzibar is located 25 miles off the coast of Tanzania and six degrees south of the Equator. But it basks in a comfortable average year-round temperature of 28C. It is ringed by coral reefs and talc-soft sand that separates coconut forests from the sea. Once, the island was ruled by the Sultan of Oman, who relocated his court here from Muscat in 1840. He had been made fabulously rich by the trade in spices and slaves. From where I am sitting - on a terrace at the Essque Zalu hotel on the island's northern tip, just a stroll from the Clooneys' hideaway - little seems to have changed since Zanzibar was made famous in the tales of Arabian Nights. Later, I flit through dense banana plantations to west coast Fumba, where I wade through the shallows to board a red-sailed dhow. The skipper introduces himself as Captain Morgan (though his real name is Hussan) and takes me out in search of leaping dolphins, before anchoring for a session of snorkeling. Suddenly I'm in the middle of a natural aquarium of rainbow-coloured parrot and angel fish. Later, we make land on a sheltered islet where giant crabs scuttle to the safety of the mangrove bushes as Hussan prepares a barbecue of swordfish, marlin and shrimp. 'The British pirate Captain Kidd worked these waters, looting clippers from the east,' he says with a grin. 'He is said to have buried treasure on one of these islands. A sprinkle of stardust: Amal and George Clooney enjoyed a holiday on Zanzibar last year 'He returned to London to give himself up, hoping that if he told where the treasure was, they would let him off. They hanged him. So the treasure might be under our feet.' The next morning, I wander round a spice plantation where nutmeg, cinnamon, lemongrass and ginger make for a more heavenly scent than I've ever smelt in a bottle. But the heart of Zanizbar's legend lies in its west-coast capital Stone Town a labyrinth of narrow alleys, bazaars and merchant mansions which once housed harems. I join the Sunday service in the Anglican Christ Church Cathedral, built on the site where 60,000 slaves were sold every year. It is joyous to sing familiar hymns in Swahili, but I am hypnotised by the altar, where the whipping post once stood. It was in those dark times that the island's grandest private palace was built - Mambo Msiige. A lavish, oceanside fort, crafted as the home of a wealthy sheikh in 1850, it later fell into ruin but has just opened as a sumptuous Park Hyatt hotel, its Moorish windows, carved doors and intricate Islamic tiles restored. Livingstone's body was returned here in 1872 to lie in state in its central courtyard. The view can have changed little since. Dhows still seek sanctuary in the nearby port, where young men continue to test their courage by taking a running jump over the harbour wall into the water 20ft below. One sultry night, I meander through the medina to Emerson Spice - a rooftop restaurant where I eat sitting cross-legged on silk cushions. It feels like heaven. Some houses in Stone Town are crumbling. But, happily, citadels like Mambo Msiige are being restored. Zanzibar is a stubborn, splendid creature. Long may she be so. Advertisement If you popped the question on Valentine's Day or took the Leap, then you may already be looking beyond the wedding to a honeymoon. Lounging on a beach in the Indian Ocean has marked the start of married life for many, but these days newlyweds more than ever are using the opportunity of an extended holiday to push the boundaries further and start their life-long adventure together with something a bit different. Unusual activities such as gorilla trekking in Rwanda and volcano surfing in Nicaragua are on the rise for intrepid couples. A spokesperson for travel agency Black Tomato revealed: 'Over the past few years weve seen clients looking to embark on more adventurous and unique honeymoons together as opposed to just fly and flop beach style honeymoons. 'Honeymooners are looking to embark on once in a lifetime trip were they are both experiencing something new together whether thats learning a new skill or experiencing a new culture, as well as relax and unwind. 'Combination or multi-stop trips also work well as this ensures guests get a mix of active and relaxation as well as keeping both husband and wife happy if they have different interests or hobbies.' Here MailOnline Travel rounds up some exciting alternatives for your first trip as a married couple. Tectonic dive in Iceland Take the plunge: Head to Iceland where you can descend into the deep and frolick between two tectonic plates The picture on the left shows a diver between two tectonic plates in Iceland, while the image on the right shows one of the country's incredible ice caves Diving doesnt always have to involve white sandy beaches and vibrant coral reefs. For a honeymoon with a difference, head to Iceland where you can descend into the deep and explore the gap between two tectonic plates. Once out of the water, jump on quad bikes to explore the rugged terrain, walk behind waterfalls and see exploding geysers. And what better way to round off the trip than a refreshing soak in the blue lagoon. Available from Black Tomato from 2,189 pp for four nights, based on two people sharing. Costa Rica: Pura Vida adventure holiday Why not head to the jungle on a 14-day itinerary covering some of Costa Rica's best eco lodges? It's perfect for couples looking for a combination of nature, seclusion and adventure This April British Airways is opening an exciting new route - from Gatwick to San Jose, Costa Ricas capital. So why not head to the jungle on a 14-day itinerary covering some of Costa Rica's best eco lodges? It's perfect for couples looking for a combination of nature, seclusion and adventure. The Evaneos Travel tour starts with one night in the Sarapiqui region before continuing on to Barra del Pacuare, where if you're lucky you'll get the chance to witness sea turtles nesting (from April to October). Then it's on to the Arenal Volcano Region, and finally, a spot of whale-watching in the South Pacific. Package prices start from 1,315 per person excluding international flights. Horse trekking in Orkhon valley, Mongolia Holiday company Evaneos Travel can organise a horseback trek through the world heritage site of Orkhon Valley, allowing travellers to explore the Khangai mountain range, which forms one of Mongolias most stunning landscapes Evaneos Travels local Mongolian agent has created a horseback tour that enables travellers to truly experience the countrys nomadic lifestyle and cultural heritage, as well as taking in the eight lakes of the Naiman Nuur area Saddle up for an unforgettable honeymoon. Holiday company Evaneos Travel can organise a horseback trek through the world heritage site of Orkhon Valley, allowing travellers to explore the Khangai mountain range, which forms one of Mongolias most stunning landscapes. The firm's Mongolian agent has created a horseback tour that enables travellers to truly experience the countrys nomadic lifestyle and cultural heritage, as well as taking in the eight lakes of the Naiman Nuur area. Evaneos Travel is offering a 10-day package from 1,267 per person. Price includes full-board accommodation on the trek, experienced guides, as well as all horse-riding and equipment. Explore Brazil's waterfalls, beaches and sunsets The staggering Iguacu Falls (pictured) is one of nature's most impressive natural phenomena This is one honeymoon that's anything but watered down. On the 12-day Rio Waterfalls, Beaches and Sunsets tour couples can spend their first few days exploring the sights of the capital, Rio de Janeiro, then continue to the staggering Iguacu Falls to immerse themselves in one of nature's most impressive natural phenomena. Then they can round off the trip swimming or snorkelling through the turquoise waters of Paraty and the stunning island paradise of Ilha Grande. Packages starts from 1,000pp excluding international flights. Voyage around eastern Indonesia on a luxury yacht Explore Eastern Indonesia with your other half on board a 111ft privately chartered timber phinisi yacht, Tiger Blue Guests can relax on Tiger Blue among eyecatching scenery (left) and dine in style on board (right) Who says you have to stay in one place for the whole of your break? Explore eastern Indonesia with your other half on board a 111ft privately chartered timber phinisi yacht, Tiger Blue. The yacht boasts five luxurious en-suite cabins, sleeping up to 12 adults. On this guests can relax overlooking incredible scenery or choose from three tailored itineraries from routes for foodies to dives in coral reefs. Adventures can be booked on your behalf by Full Circle Travel. Gorilla trekking in Rwanda and Mauritius Nature lovers can venture to Rwanda where theyll hole up at the secluded Virunga lodge in the National Park des Volcans. Honeymooners can spend their days taking on a physically challenging trek into the surrounding jungle in search of families of gorillas (pictured) The views from Virunga Lodge over Lake Burera and the farms, agriculture, woodland and hills surrounding the lake Your other half may go ape if you book this. Honeymooners can venture to Rwanda and hole up at the secluded Virunga lodge in the National Park des Volcans. Guests will spend their days taking on a physically challenging trek into the surrounding jungle in search of families of gorillas. They can then gaze in awe at these incredible and secretive creatures up close with a guide at hand. After a few days trekking in the jungle guests looking for a little rest and relaxation can finish up on the beaches of Mauritius. Take an expedition from Chilean Patagonia to the Pacific For an adrenaline-fuelled excursion honeymooners can take on the challenge of conquering the 2,010m summit of Tres Monjas (pictured), before abseiling back down Starting in the icy peaks of Patagonia honeymooners can abseil, mountain bike, and white water raft their way through incredible landscapes. Pictured are the cliffs of Los Cuernos among the clouds, with Andean condors flying overhead This eight-night expedition will take newlyweds from the moon-like ethereal landscapes of Patagonia to the rugged coastline weathered by the mighty Pacific Ocean. For an adrenaline-fuelled excursion guests can take on the challenge of conquering the 2,010m summit of Tres Monjas, before abseiling back down its face. Starting in the icy peaks of Patagonia guests will climb, abseil, mountain bike, and white water raft their way through incredible landscapes, which will require a range of physical disciplines and teamwork. It's a chance to saddle up and experience traditional Andean Cowboy culture before riding along remote trails that few tourists have ridden before. Guests will stay out in remote mountain-side lodges where beside the camp fire they can stargaze with cowboys who have lived in this hostile environment for generations. For a last thrill guests will negotiate some of the most challenging white water in South America in order to complete a unique journey through one of South Americas last true frontiers - the Rio Futaleufu River - before finally completing the expedition by kayaking across Lake Yelcho to the Pacific. Epic Tomato can arrange a luxury eight-night honeymoon to Chile from 5,995pp including international flights, accommodation and transfers and tours. Volcano surf in Nicaragua This Central American paradise offers stunning beaches, lush tropical jungle and flaming volcanoesyes thats right, volcanoes. Pictured is the harbour below Volcan Concepcion, which rises 1,610 metres above the jungle What better way to add some heat to your honeymoon than with a volcano surfing experience This Central American paradise offers stunning beaches, lush tropical jungle and flaming volcanoesyes thats right, volcanoes. And what better way to add some heat to your honeymoon than with a volcano surfing experience? Strapped on specially-adapted snowboards, ride on warm volcanic ash to the bottom of Cerro Negro, then be whisked to Totoco Eco Lodge nestled on an island in the middle of Lake Nicaragua where you can continue your Nicaragua adventure with kayaking and hiking before unwinding on the beach side at Morgans rock. Black Tomato can organise tours from 3,500 per person for nine-nights, based on two people sharing. Explore the Amazon with local tribes and kayak around the Galapagos Islands On an action-packed 12-night honeymoon to Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands guests can soak up the sights of the Unesco-listed city of Quito, then trek deep into the Amazon to meet the Huaorani tribe who were discovered just 50 years ago Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands offer more intrepid honeymooners incredible adventure, remote and beautiful landscapes, unique wildlife, and romantic Andean lodges. On an action-packed 12-night honeymoon guests can soak up the sights of the Unesco listed city of Quito, then trek deep into the Amazon to meet the Huaorani tribe, who were discovered just 50 years ago. For a unique experience newly-weds can then head high into the dramatic Andes to stay at an authentic working hacienda from where they can trek or horse-ride to discover pre-Incan ruins that few have seen before. Guests can then set sail around the Galapagos Islands for a few days of exploring the other-worldly landscapes as well as snorkelling with an incredible array of marine life. The recently opened Pikaia Eco-Lodge located on Santa Cruz Island offers honeymooners the chance to enjoy the islands in a luxurious and romantic setting and understand the beauty of the fragile and unique environment. And after a long day exploring the islands guests can lay out and take in the expansive star-lit skies. Black Tomato can organise a trip from 6,551 pp for 12 nights, based on two people sharing. Hike in the Red Mountains of Utah Strap on your walking boots and spend your honeymoon on an adventurous hiking escape amongst the breathtaking Red Mountains of Utah Newlyweds can also go on romantic rambles in Zion National Park - and get involved in additional activities such as horseback riding, canyoneering and rock climbing Strap on your walking boots and spend your honeymoon on an adventurous hiking escape among the breathtaking Red Mountains of Utah - and enjoy romantic rambles in the nearby Zion National Park. For added adventure, get involved with additional activities such as horseback riding, canyoneering and rock climbing. After an adventurous day, take part in complimentary group classes, such as yoga and aqua strength, before you and your loved one treat those sore feet to a reviving reflexology massage or indulgent Canyon warm stone massage. Health and Fitness Travel offers seven nights at Red Mountain Resort from 2,085pp. Explore the colours of Morocco Adventurous honeymooners can explore the charm of Morocco (pictured) with a wide selection of tours and excursions, from hiking the Atlas Mountains to exploring the souks and palaces of Marrakech In the land of snake charmers and maze-like souks, Morocco offers an exotic escape for newlywed culture vultures. Adventurous honeymooners can explore the charm of this beautiful country with a wide selection of tours and excursions, from hiking the Atlas Mountains to exploring the souks and palaces of Marrakech. Join a traditional Moroccan cookery class and experience rope-sliding across cliffs, before recovering at a luxury wellness retreat with beach front yoga, surfing and holistic spa treatments. Health and Fitness Travel offers 10 nights in Morocco from 1,620pp. Experience a real-life Robinson Crusoe desert island adventure Honeymooners can experience desert island isolation in the middle of the Karimunjawa Archipelago, between the islands of Java and Borneo, Indonesia After Kura Kura private island guests experience stripped-back desert island life on Krakal Island (pictured) where they will stay overnight in total isolation on a castaway-style island Honeymooners can experience desert island isolation in the middle of the Karimunjawa Archipelago, between the islands of Java and Borneo, Indonesia. For trekking enthusiasts and nature lovers Indonesia is the perfect luxury holiday destination. Guests can climb to the incredible crater-lake of Rinjani Volcano, one of the highest volcanoes in the eastern hemisphere, to high above the clouds before reaching the crater lake at sunrise. Then disconnect from life back home on the white sands of Kura Kura. Couples can then experience stripped-back desert island life on Krakal Island where they will stay overnight in total isolation on a castaway-style island. Living up to its Robinson Crusoe barefoot credentials, there is no electricity or kitchen facilities on the island, with light provided by lamps and candles for an extra romantic atmosphere. A desperate couple have released shocking photos of their injuries in a bid to get home after a horror smash left them stranded - 6,000 miles away. British backpackers Rhys Sykes, 24, and Sarah Liddle, 23, were part way through a trip around Asia and Australasia when disaster struck on Valentine's Day. The couple had decided to hire a motorbike and were driving through Vietnam when they were hurled from the vehicle onto the side of the road after smashing into another bike. Sarah Liddle suffered three separate breaks to her left leg and was left with blood pouring from an open wound British backpackers Rhys Sykes, 24, and Sarah Liddle, 23, were part way through a trip around Asia and Australasia when disaster struck Rhys Sykes suffered a broken foot, broken fingers and severely grazed arms in the accident on Valentines Day Sarah suffered three separate breaks to her left leg and was left with blood pouring from an open wound, while Rhys suffered a broken foot, broken fingers and severely grazed arms. Now the couple, who were told that a special evacuation flight back to Britain will cost them 30,000, have issued an appeal for help and released photos of their injuries. The photos show Sarah's leg held in place by metal rods while the picture of Rhys shows the extensive grazing he suffered to his arms. They have now managed to find a cheaper alternative flight to their home in Doncaster, South Yorkshire, but still need to raise 15,000. Sykes and Liddle, who were told that a special evacuation flight back to Britain will cost them 30,000, have issued an appeal for help and released photos of their injuries A backpacking pair are currently locked in a battle of red tape and legal minefields with their travel insurers over the validity of their policy as well as airlines, medical institutions, and the British and Vietnamese authorities A crowdfunding appeal for Sykes and Liddle - who were due to celebrate their first anniversary on February 15, the day after the accident - was launched by Sarah's cousin, Jenna Duckitt, and has so far raised more than 3,780. Writing on Facebook, Sarah said: 'I don't usually like to put things like this on Facebook but unfortunately... Desperate times. Rhys and I have been involved in a road accident in Vietnam and as a result I have a severely broken leg in three places. I have been in hospital now for 10 days and had an operation to correct the bone position. 'Bottom line - our insurance company won't pay out due to a technicality in wording that we even checked with when booking. We are now looking at a 30,000 bill (on top of all of the other medical bills we have) to fly me home so I can continue my surgery/recovery at home. 'So please, if anyone has any advice or knows someone who can help (or has a spare 30,000 laying around) I would greatly appreciate any support as I'm starting to lose hope and don't know what to do.' Writing on Facebook, Sarah Liddle said: 'I don't usually like to put things like this on Facebook but unfortunately... Desperate times' Sykes and Liddle had decided to hire a motorbike and were driving through Vietnam when they were hurled from the vehicle and onto the side of the road after smashing into another bike The couple are currently locked in a battle of red tape and legal minefields with their travel insurers over the validity of their policy as well as airlines, medical institutions, and the British and Vietnamese authorities. While the couple had travel insurance, they say the firm is refusing to pay out over a technicality. After spending eight days in hospital, the pair were declared fit to fly by medics - but on arriving at the airport in Ho Chi Minh, they were told they would not be able to board - and are now currently based in a hotel in the city while they consider their next move. The couple set off from the UK on their backpacking trip shortly before Christmas and had just crossed the border into Vietnam from Laos, having also visited Thailand, when the horror smash occurred. The couple set off from the UK on their backpacking trip shortly before Christmas and had just crossed the border into Vietnam from Laos, having also visited Thailand, when the horror smash occurred Advertisement An ancient warrior will soon stand watch over a city - when builders add the finishing touches to his 190-foot frame. The world's largest bronze statue of China'a Marquis Guan Yu, which weighs an enormous 1,200 tonnes, is set to be unveiled later this year in Jinzhou. The warrior is known as the god of wealth, and he is often worshipped by business owners. The central China Henan province's figure will be the second heaviest model of the Chinese war hero ever created - weighing five times more than New York's Statue of Liberty. Scroll down for video The world's largest bronze statue of Chinese Marquis Guan Yu, which weighs an enormous 1,200 tonnes, is set to be unveiled later this year in Jinzhou The central China Henan province's figure will be the second heaviest model of the Chinese war hero ever created - weighing five times more than New York's Statue of Liberty A 2,500 ton version of the red-faced and black bearded warrior was erected in Yuncheng City, in northern China's Shanxi Province in 2010. Created out of copper and steel, the foundation of the 2010 statue is 61 metres tall, to mark Guan's 61-year life. According to RT.com, China's fearsome war hero lived during a period known as the Three Kingdoms, and is celebrated for cutting down enemies using an enormous axe-like weapon called a Green Dragon crescent blade. Chinese Marquis Guan Yu is known as the god of wealth, and he is often worshipped by business owners in China The warrior is celebrated for cutting down enemies using an enormous axe-like weapon called a Green Dragon crescent blade The enormous statue's unveiling follows the announcement that Greece is hoping to reclaim some of its former glory after its catastrophic financial crisis by rebuilding the Colossus of Rhodes. MailOnline covered the country's plans to build the figure standing five times higher than the 98ft original - in December. Sam Smith won Best Original Song for Writing's On The Wall, Spectre Advertisement Leonardo DiCaprio finally won his first Oscar for his performance in The Revenant on Sunday night, after four previous unsuccessful nominations, then used his moment on stage to warn about his favorite cause - climate change. The 41-year-old actor used his lengthy acceptance speech to deliver a lecture on the subject, and was able to speak for a longer period than other winners when the producers failed to play 'wrap-it-up' music as he went well past his allotted time of 45 seconds. He told the audience, 'Climate change is real, it's the most urgent threat facing our species. We need help around the world.' DiCaprio led the winners at the glittering 88th Academy Awards in Beverly Hills, which saw Room's Brie Larson take home Best Actress and Spotlight scooping the coveted Best Picture prize. Leo's win prompted a standing ovation at the awards, and also became the most Tweeted about Oscar's minute - overtaking Ellen's group selfie from 2014. Speaking to GMA anchor Robin Roberts immediately after the show, DiCaprio said he was 'very moved' by the reaction. The other main winners were big budget blockbuster Mad Max: Fury Road, the biggest success of the night with six accolades. Best Supporting Actor went to Mark Rylance for Bridge Of Spies and The Danish Girl's Alicia Vikander was awarded Best Supporting Actress. Scroll Down For Video Finally: Leonardo DiCaprio used his Oscar win for Best Actor to deliver a lecture on climate change at the Academy Awards on Sunday night Addressing the star-studded audience, he said: 'Making The Revenant was about man's relationship to the natural world...climate change is real. 'It is happening right now. It is the most urgent threat facing our entire species and we need to work collectively together and stop procrastinating. We need to support leaders around the world who do not speak for the big polluters or the big corporations but for all people.' 'Let us not take our planet for granted,' he concluded. 'I do not take tonight for granted.' However, despite this stance, it has been noted that DiCaprio has still maintained quite the jet-setting lifestyle for both business and pleasure. He is known to frequently charter private planes and hire enormous party yachts - including one owned by a UAE oil tycoon. He has tried to counteract this with other measures not quite so fitting of a Hollywood A-lister including driving electric cars and riding bicycles. Emotional: Leo's close friend Kate Winslet was overcome with emotion as she watched him collect his well-deserved trophy, 19 years after they starred together in Titanic The long haul: The two stars, who rocketed to international fame with 1997 film Titanic, made sure to take in the milestone together Man in waiting: Oscar gold has previously eluded the celebrated star four times in the past until finally scoring one for his part in Revenant, left Thanks: After missing out four times before, Leo took to Twitter to thank fans for their support on Monday - but also reiterated his stance on global warming by sharing a link to LCV, an organisation taking action over climate change THE JET-SETTING LIFESTYLE OF CLIMATE CHANGE CAMPAIGNER LEO DICAPRIO Leo, pictured here walking off a private plane in 2009, is known to frequently charter flights around the world While an advocate for addressing the threat of climate change, 41-year-old DiCaprio also has quite the penchant for luxury private travel - and with that comes a larger carbon footprint. Over the space of just six weeks in 2014 the Academy Award winner was reported to have taken six private jet flights. Additionally, DiCaprio owns at least four homes including two apartments in New York and mansions in Hollywood and Palm Springs. And in summer 2014, he spent his World Cup vacation on the fifth largest yacht in the world, a 482-foot behemoth owned by Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan - a billionaire oil tycoon from the UAE. He is also frequently photographed partying with supermodels on a range of yachts around the world, enjoying his status as a Hollywood A-lister. His jetsetting - both for business and pleasure - means that he he's producing a lot more CO2 than most people. Even if he flew on a commercial jet for all of flights, his carbon footprint in 2014 was a minimum of 40million metric tons of CO2 spewed into the atmosphere, more than twice the average American output for an entire year. That figure only takes into account his flights and assumes that he flew exclusively on commercial airlines.The A-list star is worth an estimated $220million, and it is known to frequently charter private jets. Carbon emissions for private jets vary, but by some accounts are more than 37 times higher than flying commercial. However, despite the frequent use of private air travel - which is known to be a big source of pollution - the actor has dedicated a great deal of his star power to get the word out about the environment. DiCaprio has tried to stay green in other parts of his life. He owns a $4million apartment in an eco-friendly apartment building in Battery Park City. He drives a Toyota Prius and a $100,000 Fisker electric sports car. He's been spotted riding a bike around New York. In 2007, he produced and narrated the 11th Hour, a documentary about climate change and other threats to the planet. He also represents several environmental charities and has thrown his star power behind Formula E, a new racing circuit that uses electric cars, instead of roaring gasoline-powered vehicles. In 2014 Leo chartered the world's fifth biggest yacht, owned by oil tycoon Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed al Nahyan. Lining the pockets of a man who makes his money through fossil fuels might seem an odd choice for an environmental campaigner like DiCaprio Advertisement Speaking with Robin Roberts after the ceremony, DiCaprio, 41, reacted to the standing ovation he recieved from his contemporaries. He said: 'I was very moved,' according to ABC News. His director in the film, Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, stood by him in the interview, responded:' He deserved it'. DiCaprio also took the opportunity to add to his climate change speech. He told Miss Roberts: 'Simultaneously, while I was doing this movie, I did a film, I've been doing a documentary for two years about climate change. 'As I said in the speech, it is the most urgent crisis that we've ever faced as a civilization and the more people that talk about this and get involved and, as I said, vote for leaders who really want to make a difference, you know, we can actually tackle this problem. We have the capacity to go 100 percent renewable using existing technologies, we just have to have the political will. Our very existence is at stake. But after winning big and completing his red carpet durites on Sunday night, DiCaprio had other things on his mind - most importantly his mother. 'Where's my mom?' Leonardo was heard yelling when he and his entourage arrived at the Academy Awards Governors Ball held on the top deck of the Dolby Theatre. As aides went in search of the newly-minted Best Actor Oscar winner's mother Irmelin Indenbirken, DiCaprio tucked into a slice of chicken pizza. 'I'm so hungry', he was heard to say. Then he begged to be allowed to eat in peace as his table was swarmed by well-wishers and photographers. Soon security officers ringed his table to keep onlookers at bay. 'Leo is asking for a little bit of privacy', one of the security detail said. Mummy's boy: Leonardo sat with his beloved mum Irmelin Indenbirken, who he praised along with his father for listening 'to a young child's dreams Shocked! Brie Larson was stunned as she collected her Best Actress trophy for her role in Room Newcomer! Alicia Vikander won Best Supporting Actress for The Danish Girl and couldn't contain her excitement Class of 2016: Mark Rylance, Brie, Leo, and Alicia Vikander posed backstage after winning in the acting categories Making history: The Revenant's Inarritu took best director for a second straight year, a feat matched by only two other filmmakers: John Ford and Joseph L. Mankiewicz Golden night: The likes of DiCaprio, Lawrence and Ronan could be spied out in the audience as they sat and watched the show A room filled with stars: A wide shot of the auditorium showcased just how full the theatre was during the main event Meanwhile, Oscar gold has previously eluded the celebrated star, who has won plenty of other honors over his two decade long career. But it was this year's portrayal of frontiersman Hugh Glass in the revenge tale The Revenant that earned him the milestone. Leo earned his first Oscar nomination in 1994 for What's Eating Gilbert Grape when he was just 20 years old. He was then nominated for Best Actor (The Aviator) in 2004. He later earned a Best Actor nod for Blood Diamond in 2006. And most recently for the Wolf Of Wall Street in 2013. Celebrating in style: The star-studded cast of Spotlight took to the stage to collect the Best Picture award Opening strong: Chris Rock delivered an epic monologue at the beginning the of the 88th Academy Awards on Sunday night The theory of winning everything! Eddie Redmayne was the one to present Brie with her award His leading lady! Leonardo held his arms out open for Kate as they enjoyed a sweet moment together before the ceremony began Reunited: Leo and Kate cosied up together on the red carpet as they waited in anticipation to see if he would win The winners: Leo, 41, congratulated Brie Larson on her win for Best Actress for Room Alejandro Inarritu took best director for a second straight year, a feat matched by only two other filmmakers: John Ford and Joseph L. Mankiewicz. His brutal frontier epic The Revenant, which came in with a leading 12 nods and the favorite for best picture, also won best cinematography for Emmanuel Lubezki. Renowned for his use of natural light in lengthy, balletic shots, Lubezki became the first cinematographer to win three times in a row (following wins for Gravity and Birdman), and only the seventh to three-peat in Oscar history. Inarritu, the Mexican director of last year's best-picture winner Birdman, was one of the few winners to remark passionately on diversity in his speech. Shout out! Tom Hardy received recognition from his The Revenant co-star His time to shine: The actor looked to be quite emotional as he left the stage after delivering his acceptance speech The closing of the ceremony: Laszlo Nemes looked on as Larson, left, took a photograph of Emmanuel Lubezki, DiCaprio, and Alejandro G. Inarritu on stage Toast to us! Leo and Alejandro held up their trophies as the show came to a close Three's company: Leo posed for a selfie with producer Arnon Michan and the legendary Steven Spielberg Winners: Leo enjoyed a chat with previous Oscar winner Elton John Leo lovers: Some fans were so overjoyed with the news that they threw parties in the street to celebrate together 'What a great opportunity for our generation to really liberate ourselves from all prejudice and this tribal thinking and to make sure for once and forever that the color of our skin becomes as irrelevant as the length of our hair,' said Inarritu. While the other big winner of the night was relative newcomer Brie Larson, who took home Best Actress in a Leading Role, beating out Jennifer Lawrence and Cate Blanchett for the top honour. She went on to thank her nine-year-old co-star in acclaimed independent feature Room while onstage: 'Jacob Tremblay [you were] my partner through this... and to my real partner Alex Greenwald: I love you... the whole thing!' Partner in crime: Brie reached out to nine-year-old co-star Jacob Tremblay after her name was announced as the winner She went on to thank her nine-year-old co-star in Room while onstage: 'Jacob Tremblay [you were] my partner through this... and to my real partner Alex Greenwald: I love you... the whole thing!' Good luck charm: The actress got a high five from her little pal as the Best Actress nominees were announced Handing out the hugs: Redmayne and Larson shared a warm embrace as he presented her with the trophy for Leading Actress 2016 OSCAR WINNERS BEST PICTURE The Big Short Bridge of Spies Brooklyn Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Room Winner: Spotlight DIRECTING Adam McKay, The Big Short George Miller, Mad Max: Fury Road Winner: Alejandro G. Inarritu, The Revenant Lenny Abraham, Room Tom McCarthy, Spotlight ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE Bryan Cranston, Trumbo Matt Damon, The Martian Winner: Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant Michael Fassbender, Steve Jobs Eddie Redmayne, The Danish Girl ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE Cate Blanchett, Carol Winner: Brie Larson, Room Jennifer Lawrence, Joy Charlotte Rampling, 45 Years Saoirse Ronan, Brooklyn ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE Christian Bale, The Big Short Tom Hardy, The Revenant Mark Ruffalo, Spotlight Winner: Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies Sylvester Stallone, Creed ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE Jennifer Jason Leigh, The Hateful Eight Rooney Mara, Carol Rachel McAdams, Spotlight Winner: Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl Kate Winslet, Steve Jobs ANIMATED FEATURE FILM Anomalisa Boy and the World Winner: Inside Out Shaun the Sheep Movie When Marnie Was There CINEMATOGRAPHY Carol The Hateful Eight Mad Max: Fury Road Winner: The Revenant Sicario Mad Max: Fury Road WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY) Winner: The Big Short Brooklyn Carol The Martian Room WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY) Bridge of Spies Ex Machina Inside Out Winner: Spotlight Straight Outta Compton SHORT FILM (ANIMATED) Winner: Bear Story Prologue Sanjay's Super Team We Can't Live without Cosmos World of Tomorrow SHORT FILM (LIVE ACTION) Ave Maria Day One Everything Will Be Okay (Alles Wird Gut) Shok Winner: Stutterer COSTUME DESIGN Carol Cinderella The Danish Girl Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant DOCUMENTARY (FEATURE) Winner: Amy Cartel Land The Look of Silence What Happened, Miss Simone? Winter on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom DOCUMENTARY (SHORT SUBJECT) Body Team 12 Chau, beyond the Lines Claude Lanzmann: Spectres of the Shoah Winner: A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness Last Day of Freedom FILM EDITING The Big Short Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant Spotlight Star Wars: The Force Awakens FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM Embrace of the Serpent Mustang Winner: Son of Saul Theeb A War MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed out the Window and Disappeared The Revenant MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE) Bridge of Spies Carol Winner: The Hateful Eight Sicario Star Wars: The Force Awakens MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG) Earned It, Fifty Shades of Grey Manta Ray, Racing Extinction Simple Song #3, Youth Til It Happens To You, The Hunting Ground Winner: Writing's On The Wall, Spectre PRODUCTION DESIGN Bridge of Spies The Danish Girl Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant SOUND EDITING Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Sicario Star Wars: The Force Awakens Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Oscars 2016 SOUND MIXING Bridge of Spies Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Star Wars: The Force Awakens VISUAL EFFECTS Winner: Ex Machina Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Star Wars: The Force Awakens Advertisement In an underdog win for a movie about an underdog profession, the newspaper drama Spotlight took Best Picture. Tom McCarthy's film about the Boston Globe's investigative reporting on sexual abuse by Roman Catholic priests won over the favored frontier epic The Revenant. The well-crafted procedural, led by a strong ensemble cast, had lagged in the lead-up to the Oscars, losing ground to the flashier filmmaking of Inarritu's film. But Spotlight - an ode to the hard-nose, methodical work of a journalism increasingly seldom practiced - took the night's top honor despite winning only one other Oscar for McCarthy and Josh Singer's screenplay. Such a sparsely-awarded Best Picture winner hasn't happened since 1952's The Greatest Show On Earth. Kicking off: The night opened with a raucous monologue by host Chris Rock Taking a hit: Sylvester Stallone was left heartbroken as he lost out in the Best Supporting Actor category to Mark Rylance, who took gold for his performance in Bridge Of Spies Rylance, 56, thanked his director Steven Spielberg before adding: 'If you ever asked if acting with Tom Hanks helps [your career] the answer is 'yes it does!'' Hand-off: Patricia Arquette pesented the Best Supporting Actor award to the Bridge Of Spies actor 'We would not be here today without the heroic efforts of our reporters,' said producer Blye Pagon Faust when the film took Best Picture. 'Not only do they effect global change, but they absolutely show us the necessity for investigative journalism.' Best Original Screenplay also went to the newsroom drama Spotlight, penned by McCarthy and Josh Singer. Backstage, a cord from a light suddenly fell behind the winners, prompting McCarthy - whose film shows the discovery of extensive sex abuse by Catholic priests - to exclaim in mock paranoia: 'That is the power of the Catholic Church, ladies and gentlemen!' Adam McKay and Charles Randolph took best adapted screenplay for their self-described 'trauma-dy' about the mortgage meltdown of 2008. McKay thanked Paramount Pictures for taking a risk on a movie about 'financial esoterica.' Now she's a name: Plays Gerda Wegener in The Danish Girl where the plays the wife of the first person to undergo gender confirmation surgery She then added: 'And my mum and dad - thank you for giving me the belief that anything can happen. Even though I would never have believed this!' Proud colleague: Eddie looked on the verge of tears as he saw Vikander take the stage McKay, best known for broader comedies like Anchorman and Step Brothers, gave an election-year warning to power of 'big money' in the presidential campaign and government. 'Big money is taking over our government,' said McKay backstage. Meanwhile, it was supposed to be his big night, But Sylvester Stallone was left heartbroken as he lost out in the Best Supporting Actor category to Mark Rylance, who took gold for his performance in Bridge Of Spies. Rylance, 56, thanked his director Steven Spielberg before adding: 'If you ever asked if acting with Tom Hanks helps [your career] the answer is 'yes it does!'' That's a wrap! The stars were seen chatting away as golden confetti rained down as the award show came to an end A winning hug! Brie and Alicia embraced onstage at the end of the ceremony as all the night's victors rushed the stage Shock win: Tom McCarthy's film Spotlight took home Best Picture Rylance was a first time nominee and won for his portrayal of Russian spy Rudolf Abel, who becomes part of a high-stakes prisoner exchange during the Cold War between the United States and Soviet Union. It was the first time Stallone had been in Oscar contention since 1977 when Rocky, which he starred in, wrote and produced, was nominated for 10 statuettes and won three, including Best Picture and Best Director for John G. Avildsen. Sly missed out on the Best Actor and Screenplay honours, which appears to be making this round of honours doubly meaningful and now even more heartbreaking. 'The big question is why are we protesting this year's Oscars?' Rock observed. 'It is the 88th Academy Awards.... At least 71 of them didn't have black actors nominated in the past.' Rock then jokingly Introduced Stacey Dash as the new Minority Outreach Director for the Oscars Chrissy Teigen and The Weeknd found the moment particularly hard to stomach with their obvious disdain In the film Creed, Sylvester plays an ageing Rocky, who comes out of retirement to train promising young boxer Adonis Johnson, played by Michael B. Jordan, who is the son of his former rival, Apollo Creed. Earlier in the evening, newcomer Alicia Vikander won Best Supporting Actress for The Danish Girl. She beat out the likes of Kate Winslet to take the gong for her role in the historical true story about a transgender woman (played by Eddie Redmayne) and his supportive wife (Vikander). The 27-year-old took the stage and breathlessly delivered a heartfelt speech: 'Thank you so much to the Academy for this recognition. And Eddie - where are you? - there you are! Thank you for being the best acting partner. You raised my game!' Belting it out: Lady Gaga performed Til It Happens To You from The Hunting Ground Standing in solidarity: Gaga ended her set piece with men and women holding hands in unison Vice President Joe Biden introduced Lady Gaga before her powerful performance during the Oscars. He made a plea urging Americans to speak out against sexual assault and to support Obama's It's On Us campaign His big moment! Sam Smith won Best Original Song for Writing's On The Wall for the film Spectre, beating Lady Gaga Doing the double: Sam followed in the footsteps of Adele by winning a best song gong for a Bond tune She then added: 'And my mum and dad - thank you for giving me the belief that anything can happen. Even though I would never have believed this!' The Swedish born actress beat out other more experienced Oscar hopefuls Jennifer Jason Leigh (The Hateful Eight), Rooney Mara (Carol), and Rachel McAdams (Spotlight). And while they have refused to confirm their romance and have avoided public displays of affection, it seems the Oscars changed all that - sort of. Vikander and Michael Fassbender finally let their relationship walls down, for a second, on Sunday night. The actress and her 36-year-old beau could not hide their excitement, or their feelings for each other. As the star's name was read out for her role in The Danish Girl, she gave her mother a big hug before Michael stood up to give her a loving kiss - finally publicly acknowledging their almost a year-long romance. Dripping in gold: Smith and Vikander shared a sweet moment as they had their arms full of Oscar backstage Diversity issue: The veteran comic got the audience bawling with laughter Now that's a team! Winslet and Reese Witherspoon both wore strapless dresses He's got some fans: Rock's monologue got a rise out of some of Hollywood's brightest Special treatment: The host singled out DiCaprio as someone who always gets good roles each year Despite their kiss and the fact the camera panned to her beau in anticipation, Alicia did not mention Michael's name, whether by design or whether by music-inducing nerves. Pixar's Inside Out was the winner of the best animated feature film Academy Award. The film tells the story of a young girl's emotions as her family relocates from Minnesota to San Francisco. Director Pete Docter has said the film, which mixes science with his experience, has also resonated with the parents of special needs children. The film features an all-star vocal cast including Amy Poehler, Bill Hader, Lewis Black and Mindy Kaling. The win is the studio's eighth in the category. First winners of the night: Director McCarthy and Josh Singer took Best Original Screenplay for Spotlight Sirens: Emily Blunt and Charlize Theron presented the first honour of the night Heading out: The two actresses looked tremendously glamorous as they made their way to the stage High five! Charles Randolph and Adam Mckay won Best Adapted Screenplay for The Big Short Bear Story won the best animated short Academy Award during the long ceremony. An intimate look at the life of late singer Amy Winehouse was the winner of the best feature documentary Academy Award. Amy won the documentary honor at Sunday's ceremony. Director Asif Kapadia used archival footage and testimonials to offer new insights into Winehouse, who died in 2011 from accidental alcohol poisoning. The film won the Grammy Award for best music film earlier this month. Good banter: Ryan Gosling and Russell Crowe took the stage as they announced the nominees for Best Adapted Screenplay Too cute: Room's Tremblay and Beasts Of No Nation's Abraham Attah presented the award for Best Live Action Short Film Rock brought out crates for the two young actors to reach the microphone. 'Thanks, Chris,' nine-year-old Tremblay began. 'I loved you in Madagascar! He was great. He played the Zebra.' Da Ali G Show: Sacha Baron Cohen used his old character to poke fun at the lack of diversity at this year's Oscars as Olivia WIlde stood by Controversial: He said there should be an Oscar for 'hard-working little yellow people... the Minions.' The best documentary short Oscar was awarded to the film, A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness. Sam Smith won Best Original Song for Writing's On The Wall for the film Spectre. Sam and songwriter Jimmy Nape, who beat out Lady Gaga and The Weeknd, won the prize, which followed in the footsteps of Adele's more critically praised Bond song Skyfall by taking the gong. The proud Englishman said: 'I stand here tonight as a proud gay man and I hope that we can all stand together as equals one day.' Sam, 23, also advanced the idea that he may have been the first openly homosexual person to win an Oscar, however this is not the case. That's some inking! Whoopi Goldberg presented an award at the show as she showed off a tattoo on her shoulder Gorgeous: Blanchett announced the nominees for Best Costume Design Flawless from all angles: As Cate took centre stage she had all eyes on her while modelling a stunning pale blue gown Proud moment: Jenny Beavan accepted the award for Best Costume Design for Mad Max: Fury Road He said: 'I read an article a few months ago by Sir Ian McKellen, and he said that no openly gay man had ever won an Oscar. 'If this is the case, even if it isn't the case, I want to dedicate this to the LGBT community all around the world.' However, the famed thespian had talked about the fact an openly homosexual man has yet to win the best actor Oscar specifically, not just any Academy Award. The title for the night's most-awarded film, however, went to neither Spotlight nor The Revenant. George Miller's post-apocalyptic chase film, Mad Max: Fury Road sped away with six awards in technical categories for editing, makeup, production design, sound editing, sound mixing and costume design. Roundly acclaimed for its old-school craft, Miller's Mad Max was assured of becoming the evening's most awarded film. 'Us Mad Maxes are doing OK tonight,' said editor Margaret Sixel, who's also Miller's wife. The flurry of wins brought a parade of Australian craftsmen onstage, including sound editor Mark Mangini, who celebrated with a loud expletive. The composer John Williams (Star Wars: The Force Awakens, which went away empty-handed despite being the biggest box-office hit of the decade) came in with his 50th nod, but lost to Ennio Morricone, who, at 87, landed his first competitive Oscar for Quentin Tarantino's The Hateful Eight. (He was given an honorary one in 2009.) Chris Rock introduced one pair of presenters as: 'Nominee Rachel McAdams and should have been nominated Michael B. Jordan' Cute pair: Benicio del Toro and Jennifer Garner took to the stage to announce some nominees Final marks! Del Toro and Garner pictured backstage before announcing some nominees Reunion! The gorgeous and newly single actress was seen joking with Steve Carell, who she starred with in Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day Chris Rock opened the ceremony with a rollicking monologue as celebs gathered at the Dolby Theater to toast another year in movies. The show kicked off with a montage of the films from 2015 and the 51-year-old comedian referenced the clip as he took the stage. 'Man I counted at least 15 black people in that montage. I am here hosting at the Academy Awards otherwise known as the White People's Choice Awards. If they nominated hosts I wouldn't be your host. It'd be Neil Patrick Harris. People be like, "Chris you should boycott. You should quit." Only people without jobs say to quit something. And the last thing I need is to give another job to Kevin Hart. Porno stars don't make movies that fast!' 'The big question is why are we protesting this year's Oscars?' Rock continued. 'It is the 88th Academy Awards.... At least 71 of them didn't have black actors nominated in the past.' 'Black people didn't protest because we had real things to protest. Too busy being raped and lynched to worry about who won best cinematography. When your grandma's hanging from a tree...' Hot! The Weeknd performed his Oscar nominated song Earned It for feature Fifty Shades of Grey Gorgeous production: The ceremony held at the Dolby Theater put on quite a show Tribute: Dave Grohl sang Blackbird as stars who passed in 2015 were celebrated Now that's really a pair! Margot Robbie and Jared Leto presented the award for best makeup and hairstyling He then went on to poke fun at Jada Pinkett who had said she was boycotting the Oscars ahead of the ceremony on Sunday: 'Jada boycotting the Oscars is like me boycotting Rihanna's panties! I wasn't invited.' 'Everyone wants to know in the world, is Hollywood racist?' said Rock. 'Is it "burning cross racist"? No. Is it "fetch me some lemonade racist"? No. It's a different type of racist. Hollywood is "sorority racist." It's like, "we like you Rhonda, but you're not a Kappa".' And he added: 'We want opportunity. We want the black actors to get the same opportunities. Not just once. Leo (DiCaprio) gets a great part every year. All you guys get great parts all the time.' Actress and Fox News personality Stacey Dash said she wanted to bring a different kind of diversity to Hollywood - and that's why she participated in one of the oddest Oscar moments. The former Clueless actress has attracted attention lately for her conservative viewpoints, including suggesting on Fox that there should not be a Black History Month. Dash, who is black, also spoke out against people complaining that the Oscars didn't reflect diversity. She was jokingly introduced by host Rock as director of the Oscar's minority outreach program. Dash strode onstage to say 'I cannot wait to help my people out. Happy Black History Month!' Elka Wardega (L), Lesley Vanderwalt (C), and Damian Martin accept the award for Best Makeup and Hairstyling, Mad Max: Fury Road Tina Fey (L) and Steve Carell present the Oscar for Best Production Design to Colin Gibson (2nd R) and Lisa Thompson for Mad Max: Fury Road Quite the production: Celebs gathered at the Dolby Theater to toast another year in movies as they were honoured by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Landmark achievement: Liev Schreiber and actress Priyanka Chopra present the award for best Achievement in Film Editing, in Mad Max, to film editor Margaret Sixel The joke fell flat, perhaps because many people in the audience didn't understand the reference. Dash explained online why she did it, saying ideological diversity is much harder to achieve in Hollywood. Later in the show, Rock had some local Los Angeles Girls Scouts sell cookies in an effort to help his own daughters, who are also Scouts, raise money. He called out some celebs to put there money on the line as he said, 'C'mon, Leo you made $30 million!' But he gave one actor some trouble for buying the cookies: 'Oh Lou Gossett watch out now! You got diabetes!' He revealed that he pulled in $65,243 in earnings from the cookie sales. Rock also shared a video of him asking people on the street in Compton, California about nominees at this year's white washed Oscars. Nearly all of the interviewees had never heard of the nominees for Best Picture but all of them had seen Straight Outta Compton, which was nominated for Best Original Screenplay. Some healthy satire: Angela Basset starred in a short video clip titled Oscars Edition Black History Month Minute that honour comedic actor Jack Black Not pulling any punches: Chris Rock's show made sure to address the issue of race Vice President Joe Biden took the stage to a standing ovation as he introduced Lady Gaga for her performance of Til It Happens To You which was nominated for Best Original Song for the film The Hunting Ground. Biden addressed sexual abuse on college campuses: 'I urge you to take the pledge, "I will intervene when consent cannot or will not be given." Let's change the culture so that no woman or man will ever have to ask "what did I do?"' 'They did nothing wrong,' he added firmly. 'Folks I really mean this go online and take the pledge. Welcome my friend Lady Gaga.' Lady Gaga produced and performed the haunting track, which she is said to have co-wrote with Diane Warren, for the soundtrack of documentary film The Hunting Ground which tackles issues surrounding campus rapes in American educational institutions. Make that money! Later in the show the comedian had some local Los Angeles Girls scouts sell cookies He called out some celebs to put there money on the line as he said, 'C'mon, Leo you made $30 million!' But he gave one actor some trouble for buying the cookies: 'Oh Lou Gossett watch out now! You got diabetes!' Cookie time! Christian Bale and Kate WInslet indulged in some old standards Is that for real? The number Rock gave for how much he raised seemed a bit inflated Room's Jacob Tremblay and Beasts Of No Nation's Abraham Attah presented the award for Best Live Action Short Film. Rock brought out crates for the two young actors to reach the microphone. 'Thanks, Chris,' nine-year-old Tremblay began. 'I loved you in Madagascar! He was great. He played the Zebra.' Meanwhile, the audio on Kevin Hart's speech at the Oscars was abruptly cut out for an unknown reason when he took to the stage to introduce musician The Weeknd. Kevin Hart's speech at the Oscars was abruptly cut out for an unknown reason when he took to the stage to introduce The Weeknd and offered impassioned words of support to actors of color Rapper and poet Common (left) and singer John Legend (right) were other presenters of color at the Oscars Happy singer Pharrell Williams (left) and Quincy Jones (right) presented the award for best original score Chadwick Boseman (left) presented the award for best sound editing while Louis Gossett Jr. (right) introduced an in memoriam tribute at the Oscars The comedian was in the middle of an unscripted monologue congratulating actors of color who were shut out in this year's nominations, when the audio was edited out. In a slow-motion playback of Hart's speech, he appears to say: 'God****it, congratulations' or 'Congratu-f******-lations.' Others wondered whether he had said anything profane at all. It's possible the audio was cut because of profanity, but others have speculated that nervous producers pulled the plug when Hart began his unvetted speech on diversity. A corner for Joy: JLaw and David O Russell sat next to Christian Bale Handsome announcers: Jason Segel and Olivia Munn showcased some winners from the Sci-Tech Awards The Oscars had 12 black presenters amidst the #OscarsSoWhite controversy. Among the presenters were Common, Morgan Freeman, Whoopi Goldberg, Louis Gossett, Jr. and comedian Hart. While other races made up the 47 presenters of the night, the majority - 30 people - were white. Other races represented included two Latin Americans, Benicio del Toro and Sofia Vergara and two people of Indian descent, Dev Patel and Priyanka Chopra. Lee Byung-hun, who is South Korean, and Olivia Munn, who is half Japanese also presented awards. However a tasteless moment occurred when Ali G, the comedy alter ego of English funnyman Sacha Baron Cohen, made a shock comeback at the event, who was last seen on 2014's Ali G: Rezurection. Star Wars C-3PO, R2D2 and BB-8, arrive on stage to celebrate composer John Williams Let me see! Tremblay got out of his seat to look at the Star Wars droids Speaking in his trademark Staines Massive drawl, he said: 'Ow come theres no Oscar for dem very hard-working little yellow people with tiny d***s. You know, the Minions.' The comic continued to mine the controversy over the claimed lack of racial diversity at this year's event, drawing howls of laughter from the white-majority audience. Sacha was introducing best picture nominee Room with Olivia Wilde when he decided to speak out in support 'all people of all colors.' The 44-year-old said: 'I is here representing all of them thats been overlooked. 'Will Smith. Idris Elbow. And of course that amazing black bloke from Star Wars... Darth Vader.' Meanwhile, a good awards speech can echo through the generations but a bad one can mar an entire broadcast. The Academy Awards decided to create some new rules as this year they no longer allowed winners to name those they felt indebted to during their speeches. In the flesh: An actor playing Suge Knight made a fake appearance at the awards show as Straight Outta Compton was up for Best Original Screenplay Instead, the Oscars rolled a screen ticker behind the honoree naming each person they wanted to thank. In addition, speeches were cut down to just 45 seconds, in an effort to keep the running time of the ceremony within an acceptable domain, as the show has famously gone overtime. For a show that has been plagued with often self-indulgent oratory performances, it is actors and showbusiness people after all, the new rule set was intended to ensure a smoother running broadcast that has often been criticized for being boring. Lady Gaga lead the way as stars took to social media on Sunday to share their Oscars experience. The 29-year-old pop star kicked things off with a Snapchat video explaining how excited she was for the star-studded event. She later posted a photo on Instagram of herself and fiance Taylor Kinney kissing and thanked him in the caption for loving the 'survivor' in her. SCROLL DOWN FOR VIDEO Big night: Lady Gaga kissed her fiance Taylor Kinney in an Instagram snap and gushed about his support, saying he loved the 'survivor' in her 'I prayed this day would come': Gaga had earlier revealed how much she had been looking forward to the Academy Awards when she shared a pre-Oscars image on Snapchat on Sunday The singer for her first Snapchat video went makeup free and sported a tattered top in the selfie. 'I prayed this day would come. TIHTY,' she wrote in the image. The abbreviation referenced the name of her song Til It Happens To You, which was nominated for Best Original Song at the Academy Awards. 'Getting ready!' Lady Gaga shared another Snapchat video of herself getting her voice ready She later shared a Snapchat video of herself getting her voice ready for the awards ceremony where she performed the nominated song while playing the piano. The emotional performance featured dozens of survivors of sexual abuse on the stage who all raised their arms together with the singer at the end of the song. The Poker Face singer also took to Twitter before the show to reveal she was rooting for Leonardo DiCaprio to win the Oscar for Best Actor. Rooting interest: The pop star also revealed that she's rooting for Leonardo DiCaprio to win 'Don't know about u but I'm rooting for LEO! He's blessed us w/ years of his storytelling, he deserves this! #1!!,' she tweeted to her more than 56 million followers along with a photo. She later posted a tender black and white on Instagram of herself and Taylor kissing at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. 'I never thought anyone would ever love me because I felt like my body was ruined by my abuser. But he loves the survivor in me. He's stood by me all night proud and unashamedly. THATS a real man,' the singer wrote in the caption. Clever: Kate Hudson appeared in a white rock and eye pads as she said she was getting done up for the event; she was nominated in 2001 for her movie Almost Famous Kate Hudson also shared a Snapchat of herself wearing a plush white robe as she geared up for the big event. Kris Jenner was excited as well. The Keeping Up With The Kardashians star posted a snap of two blossoming bouquets sitting beside an Oscar statue. She described the snap, 'On my way to do Red Carpet Oscar coverage with @giulianarancic on E! So excited! Leave it to @jeffleatham to put us all in the mood this morning!!' The 60-year-old momager also posted images of her Oscars outfit on social media while thanking her glam squad. Elsewhere, Giuliana Rancic shared a snap of herself before gearing up to work the red Oscar carpet for E!. See more of the latest Oscars 2016 news and pictures as the stars get red carpet ready Roses are red: Kris Jenner posted a snap of two blossoming bouquets alongside an Oscar statue on Sunday; she also announced she was doing coverage for E! Reality star: Kris gave a shout out to her glam squad on Instagram Carpet duty: The momager wore a Balmain dress as she co-hosted the E! red carpet show Man of style! Sylvester Stallone posted a snap of himself dressed to the hilt in a sharp blue suit Loved up: The Oscar nominated actor posed with a thumbs up and his proud wife Jennifer Flavin Snack time: Sofia Vergara munched on a snack before the show got started But first there were rehearsals as the blonde went through the motions on Friday with co-stars Chanel Iman and Brad Goreski. 'Red carpet rehearsals with these two beauties @chaneliman @mrbradgoreski See everyone tomorrow on E!!!' wrote the mother of one. The TV icon has minimal makeup on (though she does sport some strong eyebrows) and had her short locks pushed back. See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with all of the latest news and red carpet pictures Cute: Chris Rock pulled through a Drive-Thru the day of the Oscars; he is hosting the show Cutting the fat: Chris later shared a snap of himself editing his monologue before the show Power couple: The comedian also posted a photo of himself with Stacey Dash at the Oscars Funny people: Kevin Hart, Chris and fellow comedian Dave Chappelle got together backstage Behind the scene: John Legend also shared an Instagram of himself with Chris Stage presence: Sofia Vergara presented an award at the ceremony and met with Chris backstage Done: One of the first stars being seen getting ready for the Oscars was Olivia Culpo Early bird: Her hair and makeup were already done by 11 am as she took a snap in her home The wife of Bill Rancic has on a black shirt and appears to be in full work mode. Chanel dazzles in a white cut-out dress that hugged her curves. The model also had on diamond earrings and wore her hair down. She was made up nicely but didn't have too much on. Brad was mugging for the cameras as he posed over Chanel's shoulder. Pretty as a picture: Culpo went with a strapless white gown with a sweetheart neckline and a mini mermaid finish and a diamond necklace He was suited and booted: Mario Lopez went with a classic tux to hit the Oscars 'With the man': Mario posed beside a replica of the iconic statue 'Went with a bow tie': The 42-year-old posted a snap of himself making the rounds on the red carpet There were plenty of party goers in the back ground. That is most likely because there were several presenters at the theater to rehearse. Jennifer Garner showed up in jeans and a tank top. At one point she was seen kissing Benicio Del Toro. Julianne Moore and Emily Blunt were also there. 'LET'S GO': Sam Smith posed in his tuxedo beside songwriter Jimmy Napes on Sunday Unusual: Taye Diggs wore a mask as he got ready for the big night Looking sharp! Michael Strahan shared a video of himself awaiting the big event in a stylish blue tuxedo There is a lot of pressure on Rancic this year. Last year was when she criticized Zendaya for her hair during an episode of Fashion Police. Giuliana was raked over the coals for saying the TV star's hair looked like it smelled of weed. One of the first stars being seen getting ready for the Oscars on Sunday was Olivia Culpo. Her hair and makeup were already done by 11 am as she took a snap in her home. Replenish! Ryan Seacrest posted a snap of himself as he took a sip from a tea cup Puppy love! In a video of herself cuddling a pup, Culpo wrote, 'Ommmmmmgg THE CUTEST DOGS DESCENDED FROM HEAVEN. Stop the show. How precious is this? Dying' All that glitters! Robin Roberts looked glam in her gorgeous sparkling gown; the journalist captioned this snap, 'Cinderella headed to #Oscars.. In case I forget to tell you, I had a great time tonight. See you on the Red Carpet' Culpo - who used to date Nick Jonas - went with a strapless white gown with a sweetheart neckline and a mini mermaid finish and a diamond necklace. Taye Diggs shared a photo where he had on a face mask. Chris Rock showed how he was having fast food as he took a snap by the Drive-Thru menu. Workout first! Kate Upton said she was 'Getting a workout in before @vanityfair #vfoscarparty' in a video of herself lifting weights 'Game on': Seacrest was looking sharp as he posed beside a giant replica of the award The 51-year-old comedian also shared an Instagram snap of himself wearing a black tuxedo jacket sitting on a chair witha script. 'Cutting the fat off my monologue #oscars,' Chris wrote in the caption. Pharrell Williams went blonde for the awards ceremony in an Instagram snap he shared showing himself with wife Helen Lasichanh. Gorgeous: Heidi Klum was surrounded by her team in a snap she captioned, 'Getting ready for the Oscars thanks to my amazing team' Preened to perfection! Kelly Ripa's extensive makeup process was chronicled in a sped-up video shared on her show's Instagram account The final look! Ripa clutched two Champagne bottles as she posed in her gorgeous black dress Mario Lopez shared snaps of himself polishing up for the big event, while Sam Smith posed with songwriter Jimmy Napes. Robin Roberts, meanwhile, looked glam in her sparkling gown as she stood still for her makeup artist. Kate Upton made sure to squeeze in some exercise. 'In the car!' The Room actor Jacob Tremblay was suited up as his parents drove him to the Oscars The model shared a video of herself lifting a large weight, which she captioned, 'Getting a workout in before @vanityfair #vfoscarparty'. Heidi Klum once again dazzled in an Instagram snap she shared of herself, dressed to perfection in an off-the-shoulder violet garment. 'Getting ready for the Oscars thanks to my amazing team,' she captioned the shot. Tough decision: Naomi Watts was shown getting ready in a snap shared by her makeup artist Kelly Ripa's extensive makeup process was chronicled in a video shared on her show's Instagram account. Pregnant Chrissy Teigen shared a snap of herself getting fitted into her beautifully beaded red dress. '#Oscars belly,' the image was captioned. The Room actor Jacob Tremblay shared a snap of himself on the way to the big show, while Pharrell Williams and his wife Helen Lasichanh posed by their car. Bump love! Pregnant Chrissy Teigen shared a snap of her '#Oscars belly' Looking good! Pharrell Williams and his wife Helen Lasichanh were all ready for the Oscars; the hit-maker's caption read, 'Just took this of Pharrell and Helen heading to @theacademy ! Oscars, get ready @JR' Reese Witherspoon also made sure to share with her fans her preparations. In the snap, the actress smiled as two stylists polished off and fussed over her final look. The Oscar-winning actress also shared a screenshot of her mother messaging her on Sunday morning asking for her predictions for an Oscars party. 'Countdown...' Reese Witherspoon beamed as her two stylists fussed over her final look Message from mom: Reese also shared a morning message from her mother about the Oscars Backstage buddy: The Oscar-winning actress also shared a snap with new backstage buddy BB-8 from Stars Wars: The Force Awakens Popular droid: Jared Leto and his Dallas Buyers Club co-star Jennifer Garner got togetehr with BB-8 also Helping hand: Rooney Mara helped out Cate Blanchett with her dress on the carpet Meeting up: Sofia Vergara shared an Instagram chronicling her meeting with Room star Jacob Tremblay Camouflage tux: Joe Manganiello shared a Twitter picture on Sunday of his 'camo tux' Cute couple: Olivia Munn shared an Instagram snap of her and Aaron Rodgers enjoying Girl Scout Cookies at the Oscars Lady in red: Charlize Theron took to Instagram to thank her glam squad Home And Away star Esther Anderson is engaged to her boyfriend of 15 months, dapper English Executive Howard Moggs. The 36-year-old actress revealed the news in an interview with New Idea magazine. The Celebrity Apprentice favourite tells how Howard proposed at the couple's new Los Angeles home on Valentine's Day. Scroll down for video Engaged! Home And Away star Esther Anderson is engaged to her boyfriend of 15 months, dapper English Executive Howard Moggs The brunette beauty initially thought that when he suggested they take some champagne into their back garden, the pair were going to celebrate the purchase of their new house. But she got a huge surprise when Howard got down on bended knee, surrounded by tealights at sunset. 'I thought it was a lovely way to celebrate our new home but suddenly he was down on one knee asking me to marry him,' she explains. 'I didn't see it coming at... I was speechless until I realised I hadn't said "yes".' Happy: The couple have been dating for just over a year after being introduced by a friend The couple have been dating for just over a year after being introduced by a friend and live in Los Angeles permanently. And when asked by the publication if the couple want children, Esther gushes: 'Oh yes. We both definitely want them. It's the first thing our families asked about. But woah - we just want to enjoy being engaged for now.' Esther - who is originally from Victoria's Geelong - is well known for her role on Australian soap Home and Away. Familiar face: Esther - who is originally from Victoria's Geelong - is well known for her role on Australian soap Home and Away No kids, just yet! The brunette said the couple want children but are happy to enjoy just being engaged for now The stunner played resident policewoman Charlie Buckton on the show from 2008 until 2012 when her character was killed off. The former model soon relocated to the US and friend and fellow actress Pia Miller replaced her on the show as the gorgeous Summer Bay policewoman. Last year, Esther told Daily Mail Australia how excited she was for Pia to take on the role. 'I just know what an amazing role it is and opportunity for her, so I'm very happy it's gone to such a great girl,' she said. Last year, Esther also competed on Channel Nine's The Celebrity Apprentice. Season four of the show was eventually won by Sophie Monk, with Esther being fired by CEO Mark Bouris in task four. In character: The stunner played resident policewoman Charlie Buckton on Home And Away from 2008-2012 New cop in town: Actress Pia Miller replaced Esther on the show as the gorgeous Summer Bay policewoman Back to it: Last year, Esther also competed on Channel Nine's The Celebrity Apprentice Other celebrities that appeared on the show included Tim Dormer, Tegan Martin and Richard Reid. Esther is also well known for her presenting role on the Victorian travel show Postcards, which she appeared on from 2007-2008. She has also starred in NBC mockumentary series Siberia in 2013. She's no stranger to showing off a bit of skin, and Imogen Anthony took to social media on Sunday to flaunt her bikini clad figure as she celebrated the Australian summer coming to an end. The 25-year-old wore a mismatched bikini that showed off her slender frame and pert posterior as she gave a cheeky look to the camera writing: 'adventure time ... second last day of summer.' Imogen wore a black spotted triangle bikini top matched with a pair of caramel coloured bottoms that showed off a generous amount of her pert posterior. Adventure time: Imogen Anthony took to social media on Sunday to flaunt her bikini clad figure as she celebrated the Australian summer coming to an end She ran one hand through her now candy pink coloured locks and gazed into the camera as she posed side on flaunting her slender frame. Her look was finished with a strong make-up look, a sweep of winged eyeliner on each eye and a subtle pink lip to match her now pink eyebrows. Imogen, the girlfriend of radio shock jock Kyle Sandilands shared another snap earlier in the day as she sipped on cocktails. Sunday session: The 25-year-old also shared a snap from earlier in the day with what appears to be a chilli margarita in her hand as she showed off her cleavage in a plunging neckline dress With what appears to be a chilli margarita in one hand she was caught in the moment flicking her wild pink locks over to one side. She wore a black dress with a plunging neckline over the top of her bikini and showcased her decolletage. Known for her dramatic looks, this was a more conservative style for Imogen who sat on the plush leather bench seat of the restaurant. Pretty in pink: She has been flaunting her new vibrant hairstyle after going from a honey blonde to candy pink A new look: In the past the social media enthusiast has donned different wigs to instantly reinvent her look, while this is a more permanent change The 25-year-old has been flaunting her new vibrant hairstyle after going from a honey blonde to candy pink. In the past the social media enthusiast has donned different wigs to instantly reinvent her look, while this is a more permanent change. She recently celebrated her birthday in a lavish bash thrown by her beau Kyle in the Sydney suburb of Vaucluse. While she is known for her dramatic looks, she a stepped out for her birthday in a lacy dress which exposed her breasts and covered her nipples with black tape. Sometimes style comes with sacrifices. Sofia Vergara braved cuts and bruises once again to shine on the Oscar's red carpet. The 43-year-old was old Hollywood glamour perfection as she stepped out at the 88th Academy Awards on Sunday. Scroll down for video and all the Academy Award 2016 winners Suffering for her art: Sofia Vergara braved cuts and bruises once again to shine on the Oscar's red carpet in Hollywood on Sunday The star toned down her usual sex kitten style for something a little more chic but still very sexy for Tinsel Town's night of nights. The Modern Family actress wowed in a midnight blue Marchesa gown featuring a sweetheart neckline. The neckline was modified slightly so that the star's famous cleavage made an appearance but her 'stripper boobs' as she calls them, did not look as through they may spill out at any moment. Earlier this month, the Colombian actress told The Edit that due to her famed curves she has to seek some structural reinforcements to keep her in her gown - which leave her bleeding. See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with more of the latest news and red carpet pictures Dressed to impress: The Modern Family actress wowed in a midnight blue Marchesa gown featuring a sweetheart neckline Fit like a glove: While the 43-year-old has previously revealed she struggles to fit into gowns due to her large chest, this gown's neckline was tailored perfectly so that she show some of her famous cleavage but did not look like she was about to have a wardrobe malfunction She said: 'People will often say that I wear the same thing on the red carpet, but I know my body: its very voluptuous and Ive got the boobs of a stripper,' the Colombian actress said. 'Theyre a 32DDD and because theyre real, theyre everywhere, so I need my dresses to have structure - and under armor. There is so much going on under my dresses that I bleed at the end of award ceremonies.' If she was feeling the pinch of her undergarments, Sofia certainly was not showing it. Style all wrapped up: The gown's top aside from the sweetheart neckline, featured a draped satin bodice with an asymmetrical peplum bottom which fell on top of the gown's skirt The actress was a vision as she spun around so that photographers captured the dress - which was a custom creation just for her - from every angle. The gown's top aside from the sweetheart neckline, featured a draped satin-faced organza bodice with an asymmetrical peplum bottom which fell on top of the gown's skirt and then cascaded down one side. The full skirt was made with light silk organza which was voluminous but moved with the star as it was made with multiple layers of the fabric. Strike a pose: The actress was a vision as she spun around so that photographers captured the dress from every angle Lovely layers: The full skirt was made with light silk which was voluminous but moved with the star as it was made with multiple layers of the fabric Shinning bright: Allowing the top of the dress to have its moment, Sofia did not wear a necklace but added stunning sapphire and diamond earrings and matching statement ring from her favourite red carpet jeweller Lorraine Schwartz Quick bite: While most stars go on crazy diets for the Oscars - and despite her tight bodice - the star made sure to load up on some yummy snacks backstage Taking the dress to the glamorous level the Oscars deserve, it also featured matching midnight blue crystal embroidery across the bust and cascading from under the bodice. Allowing the top of the dress to have its moment, Sofia did not wear a necklace but added stunning sapphire and diamond earrings and matching statement ring from her favourite red carpet jeweller Lorraine Schwartz. Sofia matched her hair to her dress going for a more restrained sexy style which she told E! News' Ryan Seacreast on the carpet is 'unusual' for her. Perfect accompaniment: Her brown locks were styled with a centre part at the front with a small voluminous section at the top with the rest if her locks pinned back at the nape of her neck from where they fell in curls Simply stunning: The actress opted for classic makeup glamour too, with red statement lips and little else besides defined brows Bucking the trend: The star walked the carpet alone without husband Joe Manganiello, as he started filming his new television show. He posted a snap from location in full fatigues Her brown locks were styled with a centre part at the front with a small voluminous section at the top with the rest if her locks pinned back at the nape of her neck from where they fell in curls. The actress opted for classic makeup glamour too, with red statement lips and little else besides defined brows. The star walked the carpet alone without husband Joe Manganiello, as she revealed to Ryan he was one of the only people in Hollywood who had to go to work. Made a friend: Sofia, like most watching the Oscars red carpet, fell in love with little Jacob Tremblay Little big fan: The nine-year-old seemed mesmerized by the Modern Family star Host with the most: The actress got a chance to chat with Chris Rock before her headed out to host the awards She told E!: 'He's not here today He couldn't come with me, he stared filming a new TV show he is doing so he left this morning.' While no doubt sad he had to miss out, Joe made light of the situation, posting a snap of himself in full fatigues on Twitter. Joe captioned the snap: 'Figured i'd buck the trend and go sans bowtie with my camo tux this year[Sic].' And the winner is... The actress presented the award for Best Foreign Language Film with Byung-hun Lee Precious cargo: The 40-year-old was tasked with carrying out The Envelope and made sure to hold on tight Got the gold: Son of Saul, directed by Laszlo Nemes, took out the category Sofia, who is presenting, also kept fans updated on social media posting a picture of herself back stage. While most stars go on crazy diets for the Oscars - and despite her tight bodice - the star made sure to load up on some yummy snacks backstage. Posting a picture of herself on the carpet, the star seemed generally chuffed to be at the wards. She wrote: 'So lucky to be here today!!' And pose: The two presenters took time out for a photo in the middle of the chaos backstage Legendary director George Miller was in an ebullient mood as he arrived at the Oscars with his film editor wife Margaret Sixel. The 70-year-old, who has been put forward for Best Director, as well as his film Mad Max: Fury Road landing ten nominations, arrived at the prestigious event, with a very confident thumbs up. Looking dapper in a tuxedo and white bow tie, George beamed for the cameras as he stopped on the red carpet on the way to the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Scroll down for video Cheers! Legendary director George Miller, who has been put forward for Best Director, as well as his film Mad Max: Fury Road landing ten nominations, arrived at the Oscars with his wife Margaret Sixel in LA on Monday Positive: The 70-year-old arrived at the prestigious event with a very confident thumbs up Wearing his trademark John Lennon style tinted glasses, the Sydney-based filmmaker appeared confident beside his taller, South African-born, wife. For her part, mother of two boys Margaret looked stylish in black cross-over top embellished with roses and matching skirt as she posed with her arm around her husband. Recently, George told of his delight at having his film nominated for ten Oscars, revealing that he did not expect to net so many. Speaking to Women's Weekly, he revealed: 'It's a party I didn't expect to be invited to.' See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with more of the latest news and red carpet pictures Hopeful: George said he was doing jigs at home in Sydney when he heard how many gongs his film had netted Telling of the moment they were told the project, which was filmed in Namibia and counts Tom Hardy, Megan Gale and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley among its stars, George said: 'Needless to say we're doing little happy jigs and it's really nice to be invited to the party.' The movie has been nominated in ten categories, placing it just behind The Revenant starring Leonardo DiCaprio which was nominated for 12 Oscars. George, who netted his first Oscar for Happy Feet, insisted he never expected his post-apocalypse film to be honored at the Academy Awards. Record breaking: The film has won more Oscar nomination than any other Australian produced movie Margot Robbie took to the stage as she squeezed in some last minute preparations ahead of the 88th annual Academy Awards on Sunday afternoon. The Australian actress was joined by Suicide Squad co-star Jared Leto, with whom she will present an award at the lavish event, as they practised their lines during a dress rehearsal at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Sporting an oversized shirt dress, Margot, 25, revealed her legs as she took to the podium alongside Leto - an Oscar winner in 2014 for his role as a transgender AIDS victim in Dallas Buyers Club. Scroll down for full list of nominations A good looking pair: Margot Robbie was joined by Suicide Squad co-star Jared Leto, with whom she will present an award at the 88th annual Academy Awards, as they practised their lines during a dress rehearsal at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles The pair appeared to be in high spirits as they laughed and joked their way through a brief, scripted preamble. With the event just hours away, Margot opted for a natural look, selecting her make-up from a subdued colour palette and styling her blonde locks with a simple centre parting. Meanwhile Jared, 44, embraced his signature casual style in a retro satin bomber jacket and skinny jeans, a plaid shirt tied about his waist and a Enfants Riches Deprimes t-shirt. See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with the latest news and red carpet pictures Casual: Sporting an oversized shirt dress, Margot, 25, revealed her legs as she took to the podium alongside Leto Banter: The pair appeared to be in high spirits as they laughed and joked their way through a brief, scripted preamble Off duty beauty: With the event just hours away, Margot opted for a natural look, selecting her make-up from a subdued colour palette and styling her blonde locks with a simple centre parting Working their way through a humorous skit, Leto read the actress' name when he opened the winners' envelope, then intentionally fumbled the prop Oscar - a plain plastic water bottle - and dropped it on the floor. Best Actress nominee Cate Blanchett was the most scrupulous in her rehearsal, running through her presentation several times. 'Is it here? Did I stop in my spot? Ish?' she asked the stage manager, adding, 'You can always re-cast.' Funny guy: Working their way through a humorous skit, Leto read the actress' name when he opened the winners' envelope Other stars rehearsing Saturday included Emily Blunt, Kerry Washington, Ryan Gosling, Julianne Moore, Sofia Vergara, Eddie Redmayne, John Legend, Common, Benicio del Toro and Russell Crowe. Margot later dazzled in a plunging gold gown as she took to the red carpet outside the venue on Sunday evening. The actress teamed her dress with a simple black clutch while posing for photos before making her way inside for the annual event. Suicide Squad opens in cinemas this August. Wow: Margot later dazzled in a plunging gold gown as she took to the red carpet outside the venue on Sunday evening 2016 OSCAR NOMINEES BEST PICTURE The Big Short Bridge of Spies Brooklyn Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Room Spotlight DIRECTING Adam McKay, The Big Short George Miller, Mad Max: Fury Road Alejandro G. Inarritu, The Revenant Lenny Abraham, Room Tom McCarthy, Spotlight ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE Bryan Cranston, Trumbo Matt Damon, The Martian Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant Michael Fassbender, Steve Jobs Eddie Redmayne, The Danish Girl ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE Cate Blanchett, Carol Brie Larson, Room Jennifer Lawrence, Joy Charlotte Rampling, 45 Years Saoirse Ronan, Brooklyn ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE Christian Bale, The Big Short Tom Hardy, The Revenant Mark Ruffalo, Spotlight Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies Sylvester Stallone, Creed ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE Jennifer Jason Leigh, The Hateful Eight Rooney Mara, Carol Rachel McAdams, Spotlight Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl Kate Winslet, Steve Jobs ANIMATED FEATURE FILM Anomalisa Boy and the World Inside Out Shaun the Sheep Movie When Marnie Was There CINEMATOGRAPHY Carol The Hateful Eight Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant Sicario Mad Max: Fury Road - Oscars 2016 WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY) The Big Short Brooklyn Carol The Martian Room WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY) Bridge of Spies Ex Machina Inside Out Spotlight Straight Outta Compton SHORT FILM (ANIMATED) Bear Story Prologue Sanjays Super Team We Cant Live without Cosmos World of Tomorrow SHORT FILM (LIVE ACTION) Ave Maria Day One Everything Will Be Okay (Alles Wird Gut) Shok Stutterer COSTUME DESIGN Carol Cinderella The Danish Girl Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant DOCUMENTARY (FEATURE) Amy Cartel Land The Look of Silence What Happened, Miss Simone? Winter on Fire: Ukraines Fight for Freedom DOCUMENTARY (SHORT SUBJECT) Body Team 12 Chau, beyond the Lines Claude Lanzmann: Spectres of the Shoah A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness Last Day of Freedom FILM EDITING The Big Short Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant Spotlight Star Wars: The Force Awakens FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM Embrace of the Serpent Mustang Son of Saul Theeb A War MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING Mad Max: Fury Road The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed out the Window and Disappeared The Revenant MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE) Bridge of Spies Carol The Hateful Eight Sicario Star Wars: The Force Awakens MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG) Earned It, Fifty Shades of Grey Manta Ray, Racing Extinction Simple Song #3, Youth Til It Happens To You, The Hunting Ground Writings On The Wall, Spectre PRODUCTION DESIGN Bridge of Spies The Danish Girl Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant SOUND EDITING Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Sicario Star Wars: The Force Awakens Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Oscars 2016 SOUND MIXING Bridge of Spies Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Star Wars: The Force Awakens VISUAL EFFECTS Ex Machina Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Star Wars: The Force Awakens Advertisement Advertisement It is the biggest night in the Hollywood calendar when the great and good of Tinseltown descend on the Kodak Theater. But British and Irish stars proved they could give their American counterparts a run for their money as they turned out in force on Sunday night for the 88th Academy Awards. And while only a handful of Brits and their Irish cousins were nominated for major acting prizes, they proved they were winners while taking a turn on the red carpet before the main prizegiving of the year. Scroll down for video Game of Glamour: Kate Winslet, Sophie Turner, Saoirse Ronan, and Daisy Ridley led the way for the British and Irish stars as they made an entrance to remember 88th Academy Awards at the Kodak Theater in Los Angeles on Sunday Kate Winslet was among the Brits flying the flag for the UK and she certainly took centre stage. The stunning actress wowed in a shiny black strapless Ralph Lauren number with a billowing train as she headed into the ceremony to fight for Best Supporting Actress for her turn in Steve Jobs. She was joined on the red carpet by her Titanic co-star Leonardo DiCaprio, who is hot favourite to finally pick up a golden statuette for his role in The Revenant. Kate admitted she was 'scared' as she chatted to the Daily Mail on the red carpet. She added:' I know I have done this before but I feel scared. Look, my hands are shaking. It just suddenly got to me.' Game of Thrones star Sophie Turner, 20, made quite the impression as she arrived in style at the glitzy bash. Turning heads in serious style, the flame-haired beauty oozed old school glamour in a figure-hugging green Galvan for Opening Ceremony number which was split to the thigh. The beauty - best known for her role as Sansa Stark on the hit game show - pouted and posed her way along the carpet in the eye-catching number. See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with more of the latest news on the winners and red carpet pictures Shiny: The stunning actress wowed in a shiny black strapless number with a billowing train as she headed into the ceremony to fight for Best Supporting Actress for her turn in Steve Jobs BFFs: She was joined on the red carpet by her Titanic co-star Leonardo DiCaprio, who is hot favourite to finally pick up a golden statuette for his role in The Revenant Hard to negotiate: Kate appeared to have some difficulty moving in the vinyl number by Ralph Lauren Stunning: Turning heads in serious style, the flame-haired beauty oozed old school glamour in a figure-hugging Galvan for Opening Ceremony number which was split to the thigh Brits abroad: The beauty - best known for her role as Sansa Stark on the hit game show - pouted and posed her way along the carpet in the eye-catching number Flawless: With her stunning hair in gentle waves, the actress kept the rest of her outfit simple, opting for emerald tear-drop earrings and a matching necklace All that glitters: Another star from this side of the water was Irish actress Saoirse Ronan, who is up for Best Actress for her turn in Brooklyn Racy for red carpet: The 21-year-old had certainly graduated to a more grown-up style of glamour as she showed off her cleavage in a stunning plunging green sequinned number With her stunning hair in gentle waves, the actress kept the rest of her outfit simple, opting for emerald tear-drop earrings and a matching necklace. Another star from this side of the water was Irish actress Saoirse Ronan, who is up for Best Actress for her turn in Brooklyn. The 21-year-old had certainly graduated to a more grown-up style of glamour as she showed off her cleavage in a stunning plunging green sequinned number. The back of the frock featured a daring cut-out while she kept her hair and make-up relatively simple as she headed towards one of the biggest nights of her life. Her star is on the rise: Another early arrival was Star Wars: The Force Awakens actress Daisy Ridley, who wowed in a simple-yet-chic silver number which made the most of her curves and porcelain skin Out of this world: The heavily embroidered gown featured a ruffle at the waist, while the actress went for a sleek bun and a racy red lip Bling ring: Daisy had been loaned some serious stunning accessories, including a silver and diamond ring and a matching bracelet By his side: Best Actor nominee Eddie Redmayne looked dapper as he was supported by his pregnant wife Hannah, who looked stunning in a floaty black halterneck dress with gold embellishement Support: Despite the demands of pregnancy, Hannah, 34, has been by her actor partner's side throughout awards season Ready for action: The handsome star looked determined to win as he made a suave entrance in a velvet dinner jackety and bow tie Another early arrival was Star Wars: The Force Awakens actress Daisy Ridley. The rising star wowed in a simple-yet-chic silver number which made the most of her curves and porcelain skin. The heavily embroidered gown featured a ruffle at the waist, while the actress went for a sleek bun and a racy red lip. Meanwhile, one of the main men of the night, Eddie Redmayne, left his best suit for last in awards season as he rocked up ahead of his battle for the Best Actor award. Glowing: Another pregnant attendee was Emily Blunt, who looked sensational in a baby pink gown The Mamma wears pink: The British beauty's simple yet elegant gown boasted diamond embellishment which matched her silver clutch Drop dead gorgeous: The beauty showed off some seriously expensive dangly diamond earrings on the red carpet The handsome star, 34 - who won the top prize last year - is nominated for his turn in The Danish Girl. He arrived with his pregnant wife Hannah on his arm, who showed off her blossoming bump in a floaty black gown. Another pregnant attendee was Emily Blunt, who showed off her blossoming bump in an exquisite pink gown. The number, which showed off her shape to perfection, boasted diamond details on the body and straps. Comic Sascha Baron Cohen made an unusually dapper appearance on the red carpet alongside his gorgeous Australian wife Isla Fisher. The adopted Brit wowed in a flirty floral gown which went perfectly with her flame-red locks as she struck a number of poses on the red carpet. Funny pair: Comic Sacha Baron Cohen was joined by his actress wife Isla Fisher at the ceremony Blooming lovely: The Aussie beauty - who now lives in the UK - looked lovely in a floaty floral number Always in style: Charlotte Rampling looked impossibly elegant as she arrived in a long-sleeved silver number Revered: Despite a 50 year career on the big screen, it is the first time the star has been up for an Oscar. She has been nominated for her turn in drama 45 Years Stars gathered on Sunday night at the Dolby Theatre to toast another year in movies as they were honoured by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Performers at the show include hitmakers, including Sam Smith, The Weeknd, Pharrell Williams, and Dave Grohl. Up for Best Actress were some bright new stars and some awards show favorites. Cate Blanchett (Carol) and Jennifer Lawrence (Joy) led the nominees which included Brie Larson (Room), Charlotte Rampling (45 Years), and Saoirse Ronan (Brooklyn). While the Best Supporting Actress category saw previous winner Kate Winslet (Steve Jobs) lead the way as she competed against Jennifer Jason Leigh (The Hateful Eight), Rooney Mara (Carol), Rachel McAdams (Spotlight) and Alicia Vikander (The Danish Girl). The Best Actor nominees include Bryan Cranston (Trumbo), Matt Damon (The Martian), Leonardo DiCaprio (The Revenant), Michael Fassbender (Steve Jobs), and Eddie Redmayne (The Danish Girl). However, DiCaprio's turn as a frontiersman was the clear favorite going into the Oscars, after the star took home the other big awards shows earlier this year. Leo earned his first Oscar nomination in 1994 for What's Eating Gilbert Grape when he was just 20 years old. He was then nominated for Best Actor (The Aviator) in 2004. He later earned a Best Actor nod for Blood Diamond in 2006. And most recently for the Wolf Of Wall Street in 2013. While Supporting Actor nods went to Christian Bale (The Big Short), Tom Hardy (The Revenant), Mark Ruffalo (Spotlight), Mark Rylance (Bridge of Spies), and awards season favorite Sylvester Stallone (Creed). Handsome pair: Best Supporting Actor nominee Tom Hardy was joined by his glamorous actress wife Charlotte Riley on the red carpet Look of love: The couple looked smitten as they gazed at each other while Charlotte made quite the impression in her racy low cut dress You can't foil her: Model Lily Cole was all smiles as she turned the red carpet into her runway Silver siren: The beauty worked a dramatic silver dress with ruffles, which she accessorised with gold heels and accessories Lord of the rings: Andy Serkis looked smart as he posed alongside his actress wife Lorraine Ashbourne Boys in black: Dapper Brit gents including Sam Smith and actor Will Poulter looked sensational in their dinner suits Best Picture nods went to The Big Short, Bridge of Spies, Brooklyn, Mad Max: Fury Road, The Martian, The Revenant, Room, Spotlight. Among the directing nominees Alejandro G. Inarritu (The Revenant) was the clear front runner, however he did win the year before for Birdman. Adam McKay (The Big Short), George Miller (Mad Max: Fury Road), Lenny Abraham (Room) and Tom McCarthy (Spotlight) rounded out the directing category. The evening was hosted by Chris Rock, who previously hosted the awards show in 2005 and managed to anger some Oscar officials at the time with his controversial comments. Keeping the party going: Sophie changed into a chic electric blue number to attend the Vanity Fair after-party Leggy look: Daisy showed off her figure in a black tulle dress with white floral embellishment on the shoulders Natural beauty: Daisy set off her look with a slick of red lipstick and a minimal fluttering of mascara Heading on to the after-party: Emily kept the same pastel pink dress on to party into the evening Gorgeous: Saoirse also opted not to have an outfit change as she joined an A-list crowd at the bash Hand-in-hand: Eddie's pregnant wife Hannah Bagshawe didn't stray far from his side throughout the evening Excited: Despite missing out on the Best Actor gong, Eddie seemed to be having the time of his life Happy couple: Eddie and Hannah recently confirmed they are expecting their first child together She never puts a foot wrong on the red carpet. And once again Margot Robbie has stunned at the 2016 Oscars in Hollywood on Sunday evening. The 25-year-old looked incredible in a plunging gold Tom Ford gown, which showed off a hint of her cleavage. Scroll down for video Golden girl: Margot Robbie has stunned on the red carpet at the 2016 Oscars Made of a metallic sequinned fabric with a snakeskin-like texture, Margot's gown featured long-sleeves that fitted her slender arms perfectly. Proving she's quite the expert at accessorising, the former Neighbours star teamed her dress with a bold black clutch. And adding some sparkle to her look, the blonde beauty wore a pair of glimmering earrings and complementing rings from Forevermark. See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with more of the latest news and red carpet pictures Gorgeous: The 25-year-old looked incredible in a plunging gold gown, which showed off a hint of her cleavage Glamorous: Made of a metallic sequinned fabric with a snakeskin-like texture, Margot's gown featured long-sleeves that fitted her slender arms perfectly Working it: Proving she's quite the expert at accessorising, the former Neighbours star teamed her dress with a bold black clutch With her luscious golden locks worn out in a stylish wave, Margot completed her look with some picture perfect makeup. Lashings of jet black mascara accentuated her mesmerising blue eyes, while her pout was painted a pale pink. Earlier in the day, The Wolf Of Wall Street star took to the stage as she squeezed in some last minute preparations ahead of the 88th annual Academy Awards. Blonde beauty: Margot wore her luscious locks out in loose waves for the film event Picture perfect: The actress knew just how to work her best angles on the red carpet for photographers Stunning: Margot's beautiful facial features were accentuated with striking makeup Flashing her smile: Showing off her pearly whites, Margot's pout was painted a pale pink The Australian actress was joined by Suicide Squad co-star Jared Leto, with whom she presented an award at the lavish event, as they practised their lines during a dress rehearsal at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. Sporting an oversized shirt dress, Margot revealed her legs as she took to the podium alongside Leto - an Oscar winner in 2014 for his role as a transgender AIDS victim in Dallas Buyers Club. The pair appeared to be in high spirits as they laughed and joked their way through a brief, scripted preamble. Attention to detail: Margot sported some glimmering earrings and rings Statuesque: As she made her way down the red carpet, she certainly had heads turning In high spirits: Margot couldn't wipe the smile off her face at the event Designer: She was wearing Tom Ford on the night With the event just hours away, Margot opted for a natural look, selecting her make-up from a subdued colour palette and styling her blonde locks with a simple centre parting. Meanwhile Jared, 44, embraced his signature casual style in a retro satin bomber jacket and skinny jeans, a plaid shirt tied about his waist. Working their way through a humorous skit, Leto read the actress' name when he opened the winners' envelope, then intentionally fumbled the prop Oscar - a plain plastic water bottle - and dropped it on the floor. Living the Hollywood dream: Margot has certainly come a long way since starring on Australian soap Neighbours On stage: During the awards ceremony, Margot took to the stage with Jared Leto Award time: The film stars presented the award for Best Makeup and Hairstyling Earlier on: Earlier in the day, The Wolf Of Wall Street star took to the stage as she squeezed in some last minute preparations with Jared Leto ahead of the 88th annual Academy Awards They were recently out in force to promote his new movie, Grimsby. But Sacha Baron Cohen and wife Isla Fisher were a million miles away from the Lincolnshire town when they stepped out at the Academy Awards in LA on Sunday. Pictured hand-in-hand, the couple cut stylish figures as they made their stylish entrance at the Dolby Theatre. Scroll down for video Looking good: Sacha Baron Cohen and wife Isla Fisher were a million miles away from the Lincolnshire town when they stepped out at the Academy Awards in LA on Sunday Looking resplendent in her choice of attire, the former Home and Away actress opted for a floor-length creation in pastel colours. Featuring a floral print and sleeveless design, the number certainly commanded attention and offered a demure aesthetic. Featuring a belted waist, her flame-red hair was worn in a classy side 'do', while she accessorised with a minimalist clutch bag. See Oscars 2016 updates as Isla Fisher and Sacha Baron Cohen hit the red carpet Dress success: Looking resplendent in her choice of attire, the former Home and Away actress opted for a floor-length creation in pastel colours Pictured arm-in-arm, the couple cut stylish figures as they made their stylish entrance at the Dolby Theatre Clearly proud of her funnyman husband, the Australian star looked on at the Ali G star as he held his hand around her petite frame. Meanwhile, he was equally impressive-looking in his form-fitting tuxedo. And, while out of his myriad character guises, the 44 year-old actor, comedian, and screenwriter also looked very handsome. Keeping it classy: Featuring a floral print and sleeveless design, the number certainly commanded attention and offered a demure aesthetic. Australian beauty: Featuring a belted waist, her flame-red hair was worn in a classy side 'do', while she accessorised with a minimalist clutch bag Not that they were the only famous faces there, of course. A host of stars gathered on Sunday night at the Dolby Theatre to toast another year in movies as they were honoured by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Performing during the show was a roster of current hitmakers, including Sam Smith, The Weeknd, Pharrell Williams, and Dave Grohl. Up for Best Actress were some bright new stars and some awards show favorites. Cate Blanchett (Carol) and Jennifer Lawrence (Joy) led the nominees which included Brie Larson (Room), Charlotte Rampling (45 Years), and Saoirse Ronan (Brooklyn). While the Best Supporting Actress category saw previous winner Kate Winslet (Steve Jobs) lead the way as she competed against Jennifer Jason Leigh (The Hateful Eight), Rooney Mara (Carol), Rachel McAdams (Spotlight) and Alicia Vikander (The Danish Girl). Fashion hit: Isla no doubt wowed fans as she navigated the red carpet in near-flawless style The Best Actor nominees include Bryan Cranston (Trumbo), Matt Damon (The Martian), Leonardo DiCaprio (The Revenant), Michael Fassbender (Steve Jobs), and Eddie Redmayne (The Danish Girl). However, DiCaprio's turn as a frontiersman was the clear favorite going into the Oscars, after the star took home the other big awards shows earlier this year. Leo earned his first Oscar nomination in 1994 for What's Eating Gilbert Grape when he was just 20 years old. He was then nominated for Best Actor (The Aviator) in 2004. He later earned a Best Actor nod for Blood Diamond in 2006. And most recently for the Wolf Of Wall Street in 2013. While Supporting Actor nods went to Christian Bale (The Big Short), Tom Hardy (The Revenant), Mark Ruffalo (Spotlight), Mark Rylance (Bridge of Spies), and awards season favorite Sylvester Stallone (Creed). Best Picture nods went to The Big Short, Bridge of Spies, Brooklyn, Mad Max: Fury Road, The Martian, The Revenant, Room, Spotlight. Among the directing nominees Alejandro G. Inarritu (The Revenant) was the clear front runner, however he did win the year before for Birdman. Adam McKay (The Big Short), George Miller (Mad Max: Fury Road), Lenny Abraham (Room) and Tom McCarthy (Spotlight) rounded out the directing category. The evening was hosted by Chris Rock, who previously hosted the awards show in 2005 and managed to anger some Oscar officials at the time with his controversial comments. A gorgeous blonde bombshell with plenty of leg on show raised eyebrows when she was seen by Russell Crowe's side last week. And now Daily Mail Australia can reveal that the beauty dressed to the nines in a glittering gold number is Sydney based businesswoman and socialite Ellie Aitken. The stunner is the wife of stockbroker turned investment fund manager Charlie Aitken and wears an incredible diamond engagement ring. Scroll down for video Revealed: The blonde bombshell seen with Russell Crowe this week is successful businesswoman and Sydney socialite Ellie Aitken A successful businesswoman in her own right, mother of two Ellie is a former corporate mergers and acquisitions lawyer at Clayton Utz and one time director of the NSW Polo Association. In 2011 however, she transitioned out of the legal sphere and into luxury lifestyle fashion with the launch of her label Aitken And Co. The brand describe itself as 'inspired by the signature style of owner and designer Ellie Aitken, providing luxurious but classically simple clothes and accessories for women, men and children, as well as a luxurious gifts and homewares.' Ellie herself is said to have 'a passion for travel, fashion and interior design' that has had an influence on designs. Who's that girl: The mother-of-two was seen with Russell the following day too when the pair went for a brisk walk together in Beverly Hills Successful businesswoman: Mother of two Ellie is a former corporate mergers and acquisitions lawyer at Clayton Utz and one time director of the NSW Polo Association New leaf: In 2011 she transitioned out of the legal sphere and into luxury lifestyle fashion with the launch of her label Aitken And Co Friends in high places: She shared this photo of her two kids and foreign minister Julie Bishop to Twitter recently Purchases from the website however, appear to be currently suspended. At the beginning of last year the former legal eagle signed on with her husband's new company Aitken Investment Management, as a director and co-founder. Outside of the workplace, Ellie and Charlie recently listed their waterfront Darling Point villa which they purchased in 2008 from William Penfold who belongs to the family behind historic stationary empire WC Penfold. They are also connected to another famous family with Charlie formerly counting billionaire media mogul Kerry Stokes among his high-profile clients. It was believed the businessman had invested an incredible $150 million in Charlie's investment firm in mid 2015, however according to The Australian, this turned out not to be the case. Power couple: The beauty is the wife of investment banker and firm owner Charlie Aitken Selling up: Ellie and her husband recently put their waterfront Darling Point villa on the market Well connected: She is friends with fellow socialite Charlotte Holmes a Court (third from left) Bling: She wears a giant diamond engagement ring Ellie meanwhile, has rubbed shoulders with the likes of Foreign Minister Julie Bishop and enjoys the friendship of Charlotte Holmes a Court - the niece of Australia's first billionaire and a relative of Peter Holmes a Court. Peter was of course a part owner of Russell's South Sydney Rabbitohs with the pair holding a 75 per cent share of the team between them in 2006. He sold his stake in the club in 2014 to billionaire James Packer who along with Russell, this week wiped $7 million in debt from South Sydney. Ellie and Russell were seen arriving together to pre-Oscars bash in Beverly Hills on Friday evening. There was no missing the blonde who looked incredible in a beaded gold mini dress and metallic pointed toe heels. She was also seen going for a brisk walk with the Oscar winning actor the following day. Both were dressed in gym gear as they hit the pavement with Ellie also covering her eyes with a large pair of shades. Golden girl: There was no looking past Ellie in her beaded gold mini dress and metallic pointed toe heels when she arrived with Russell to a pre-Oscar party on Friday night Advertisement It's her first Oscars since her split from husband Ben Affleck. And Jennifer Garner was a total knockout as she went solo on the Academy Awards red carpet in Los Angeles on Sunday night. Making an impact in a dramatic backless dress, it was clear the newly single star had put plenty of thought into her outfit. Scroll down for video The perfect revenge dress! Jennifer Garner goes solo on the red carpet at the Oscars in Los Angeles, Sunday Looking good: The asymmetrical neckline flattered Jennifer's toned shoulders and trim arms, while the flowing fabric revealed just a hint of her long legs The asymmetrical neckline flattered Jennifer's toned shoulders and trim arms, while the flowing fabric revealed just a hint of her long legs. The gown was a surprising choice for the mother-of-three, who usually favours a pretty girl-next-door style, featuring plenty of florals and pastels. But it proved the perfect revenge outfit, highlighting her perfect figure, ahead of a potential meeting with her ex. See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with more of the latest awards updates and red carpet pictures Dramatic: The gown was a surprising choice for the mother-of-three, who usually favours a pretty girl-next-door style At her best: With her hair pulled back into a chic updo, Jennifer accessorised with simple jewellery and a dark manicure With her hair pulled back into a chic updo, Jennifer accessorised with simple jewellery and a dark manicure. The stunning actress went against the grain by opting not to change outfits for her appearance at the Vanity Fair after party later in the night. Jen and her estranged husband remain in close contact, despite the end of their ten-year marriage last June after Ben cheated with their nanny. Indeed just this weekend they co-hosted their son Samuel's fourth birthday celebrations. The celebration was surely not without awkwardness, after Jen's bombshell Vanity Fair interview. Jennifer broke her silence about her divorce from Ben and the nanny he was accused of sleeping with, insisting that Christine Ouzounian, 28, did not break up their 10 year marriage. Bombshell: Just this week Jennifer broke her silence about her divorce from Ben and the nanny he was accused of sleeping with, insisting that Christine Ouzounian, 28, did not break up their 10 year marriage In her element: Jennifer dazzled as she went onstage with Benicio del Toro to present an Oscar Perfectly poised: The actress looked beautiful in her black sparkling gown A vision in black: The glamorous gown almost boasted a gothic feel with its mounds of dark material Behind the scenes: Jennifer's dress flaunted her toned and defined back, while Benecio looked on in admiration Superstar glamour: Jennifer proved herself to be every inch the A-lister as she paraded the red carper at the Vanity Fair after-party Catching the train: Jennifer looked incredible as she paraded her gown along the red carpet at the after show 'We had been separated for months before I ever heard about the nanny,' said the Miracles From Heaven actress. 'She had nothing to do with our decision to divorce. She was not a part of the equation. Bad judgment? Yes.' When the nanny story broke in July, Ben said the report was 'garbage.' Jennifer said the toughest part of the allegations was talking to her children about it. 'It's not great for your kids for [a nanny] to disappear from their lives,' she said. 'I have had to have conversations about the meaning of "scandal."' Jennifer and Ben, who have three children together announced their split in June, just a month before talk of his involvement with the nanny, 28. All eyes on her: The stunning actress went against the grain by opting not to change outfits for her appearance at the Vanity Fair after party later in the night As she was: Jen and her husband Ben Affleck in 2013, left, and 2014 - the two split in June last year 2016 OSCAR WINNERS BEST PICTURE The Big Short Bridge of Spies Brooklyn Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Room Winner: Spotlight DIRECTING Adam McKay, The Big Short George Miller, Mad Max: Fury Road Winner: Alejandro G. Inarritu, The Revenant Lenny Abraham, Room Tom McCarthy, Spotlight ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE Bryan Cranston, Trumbo Matt Damon, The Martian Winner: Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant Michael Fassbender, Steve Jobs Eddie Redmayne, The Danish Girl ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE Cate Blanchett, Carol Winner: Brie Larson, Room Jennifer Lawrence, Joy Charlotte Rampling, 45 Years Saoirse Ronan, Brooklyn ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE Christian Bale, The Big Short Tom Hardy, The Revenant Mark Ruffalo, Spotlight Winner: Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies Sylvester Stallone, Creed ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE Jennifer Jason Leigh, The Hateful Eight Rooney Mara, Carol Rachel McAdams, Spotlight Winner: Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl Kate Winslet, Steve Jobs ANIMATED FEATURE FILM Anomalisa Boy and the World Winner: Inside Out Shaun the Sheep Movie When Marnie Was There CINEMATOGRAPHY Carol The Hateful Eight Mad Max: Fury Road Winner: The Revenant Sicario Mad Max: Fury Road WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY) Winner: The Big Short Brooklyn Carol The Martian Room WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY) Bridge of Spies Ex Machina Inside Out Winner: Spotlight Straight Outta Compton SHORT FILM (ANIMATED) Winner: Bear Story Prologue Sanjay's Super Team We Can't Live without Cosmos World of Tomorrow SHORT FILM (LIVE ACTION) Ave Maria Day One Everything Will Be Okay (Alles Wird Gut) Shok Winner: Stutterer COSTUME DESIGN Carol Cinderella The Danish Girl Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant DOCUMENTARY (FEATURE) Winner: Amy Cartel Land The Look of Silence What Happened, Miss Simone? Winter on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom DOCUMENTARY (SHORT SUBJECT) Body Team 12 Chau, beyond the Lines Claude Lanzmann: Spectres of the Shoah Winner: A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness Last Day of Freedom FILM EDITING The Big Short Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant Spotlight Star Wars: The Force Awakens FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM Embrace of the Serpent Mustang Winner: Son of Saul Theeb A War MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed out the Window and Disappeared The Revenant MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE) Bridge of Spies Carol Winner: The Hateful Eight Sicario Star Wars: The Force Awakens MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG) Earned It, Fifty Shades of Grey Manta Ray, Racing Extinction Simple Song #3, Youth Til It Happens To You, The Hunting Ground Winner: Writing's On The Wall, Spectre PRODUCTION DESIGN Bridge of Spies The Danish Girl Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant SOUND EDITING Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Sicario Star Wars: The Force Awakens Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Oscars 2016 SOUND MIXING Bridge of Spies Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Star Wars: The Force Awakens VISUAL EFFECTS Winner: Ex Machina Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Star Wars: The Force Awakens Advertisement Kevin Hart looked sharp as he arrived at the Academy Awards on Sunday. The 5'4'' comedian was accompanied by his gorgeous fiancee Eniko Parrish, 31, as he walked the red carpet at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. The Ride Along star wore a stylish black tuxedo with a sparkling lapel. Scroll down for video Sparkle: Kevin Hart and fiancee Enkio Parrish both wore classic black as they attended the Academy Awards in Hollywood on Sunday Kevin looked relaxed and upbeat, smiling as he walked the red carpet with Eniko, who showed off her long legs in a flowing black gown with a dramatic thigh-high slit. Her dress featured a one-shoulder design with flowing fabric and cinched waist, and she wore her dark hair brushed back off her face. And the 36-year-old comedian said he believes he will be asked to host the ceremony - which has been mired in controversy due to the lack of diversity in this year's nominations - when things are 'a lot more positive' and the 'time is right'. Comedian: The Ride Along star said he wants to host the Oscars one day, but that he thinks Chris Rock is the 'right guy' for the job this year Oscars dream: Kevin looked relaxed as he walked the red carpet with his fiancee On stage: Kevin introduced The Weeknd, who sang his Oscar-nominated song Earned It, from Fifty Shades of Grey Next up? Host Chris Rock introduced Kevin as 'next year's Oscars host' 'I think when I do eventually host the Oscars I think that the time will be right. I think that the setting will be a lot more positive than what it is today.' But he told Entertainment Tonight he had faith in host Chris Rock. 'Not only can Chris host, he's going to address things the way only a comedian can,' he said. 'He can bring light to some tough issues through comedic things, but still make you think about it. It's a good thing. The right guy is there this year.' Looking sharp: Kevin wore a black tuxedo jacket with eye-catching details on the lapel and pocket Funny guy: The comedian has been open about his wish to host the Academy Awards one day Future host? The comedian said it's his dream to host the Oscars one day, but threw his support behind Chris Rock His performance in The Revenant has earned him his first Academy Award nomination. And Tom Hardy, 38, was joined by his stunning wife Charlotte, 34, at the Oscars ceremony for a night that will no doubt live long in the memory. The hot couple put on a very loving display on the red carpet, first posing with their arms around one another before turning to face each other and exchanging cheeky smiles. Scroll down for video Best supporting wife: Charlotte Riley steals the show in a VERY revealing black lace gown as she joins Tom Hardy at Academy Awards Showstopping: Tom Hardy, 38, was joined by his stunning wife Charlotte, 34, at the Oscars ceremony for a night that will no doubt live long in the memory The British actor can alternate between rough and ready, and sophisticated and suave with ease. And needless to say it was the latter he opted for on the night. Cutting a dapper figure in a black three-piece suit, the star rocked a pair of dark aviators, a pocket chain and a smart timepiece. His short back and sides looked to have been sharpened up especially for the ceremony, and he sported a well-groomed goatee beard. See our full Oscars 2016 coverage of all the winners, losers and red carpet style Enjoying the view? Tom and Rachel welcomed their first child together last year Good company: The couple were in high spirits, looking relaxed as they laughed heartily Smitten: Charlotte looked at her handsome man with adoring eyes Meanwhile, Charlotte put on a busty display in an elegant, floor-length lace and satin gown. The plunging cut of the garment revealed plenty of cleavage but never strayed from being tasteful. She held a monochrome clutch, while her make-up oozed Hollywood glamour. A slick or red lipstick and flawlessly applied dark eye make-up only served to enhance her pretty features. While she wore her brunette tresses in bouncy curls. Tom was reunited with his Revenant co-star Leonardo DiCaprio at the Kodak Theatre. The pair share a close bond having previously appeared together in Christopher Nolan's Inception. The look of love: The hot couple put on a very loving display on the red carpet, first posing with their arms around one another before turning to face each other and exchanging cheeky smiles In what looked to be matching suits, the pals posed for a picture. And not wanting Charlotte to miss out, Tom took a selfie of the three of them outside the front of the venue. In addition to his Best Supporting Actor nomination, Tom also has two films up for Best Picture with Mad Max: Fury Road and The Revenant doing battle. Earlier this year, he won the London Film Critics' Circle Award for British Actor of the Year for his work in Legend, London Road and the two Oscar nominated productions. Hollywood heartthrobs: Tom was reunited with his Revenant co-star Leonardo DiCaprio at the Kodak Theatre A moment in time: Tom, not wanting Charlotte to miss out, also took a selfie of the three of them outside the front of the venue The 88th Annual Academy Awards was a night of success for Mad Max: Fury Road, with the Australian film winning six awards from its 10 nominations. The George Miller flick nabbed the Best Costume Design, Production Design, Makeup and Hairstyling, Film Editing, Sound Editing and Sound Mixing awards, but missed out the gongs for Best Picture, Best Director, Visual Effects and Cinemetaography. Of the 24 categories devised by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, 10 categories feature Mad Max: Fury Road, making it the film with the highest number of nominations and wins ever achieved by an Australian film. Scroll down for video Victory: The 88th Annual Academy Awards have kicked off, and Australian film Mad Max: Fury Road has already won six awards from its 10 nominations The Australian makeup and hairstyling team of Lesley Vanderwalt, Elka Wardega and Damian Martin won the Oscar, just minutes after the film's Australian production designers Colin Gibson and Lisa Thompson, and English costume designer Jenny Beavan also claimed their categories. George Miller's wife Margaret Sixel then appeared on stage to accept the award for Film Editing. 'Thank you so much to the Academy,' she began her acceptance speech. See Oscars 2016 updates as Mad Max: Fury Road scoops an impressive SIX Oscar awards On stage: Elka Wardega (L), Lesley Vanderwalt (C), and Damian Martin accept the award for Best Makeup and Hairstyling Winning: Lisa Thompson holds the Oscar for Best Production Design alongside Colin Gibson Exciting time: Tina Fey (L) and Steve Carell present the Oscar for Best Production Design to Colin Gibson (2nd R) and Lisa Thompson 'Mad Max was best reviewed film of 2015. Audiences loved it and to be honoured tonight is just more than we ever hoped for. 'It took enormous creative courage and guts to make this film so I just want to say a thanks to George Miller, Doug Mitchell and the whole crew that did six months in the Namibian desert to bring back the most amazing footage,' she added. Meanwhile taking to the stage to accept the award for Best Sound Editing were Mark Mangini and David White. 'For thousands of years we've been telling stories in the dark around the flickering light whether a camp fire or a projector, David and I do all the sound,' Mark began. Gracious: Costume designer Jenny Beavan accepts her award for Best Costume Design Editing award: Editor Margaret Sixel accepts the Best Film Editing award Thrilled: 'Mad Max was best reviewed film of 2015. Audiences loved it and to be honoured tonight is just more than we ever hoped for,' she said 'George Miller would tell us Mad Max is a film we see with our ears. I knew sound could tell my story but nothing quite like this. Sound artists are storytellers. Thank you George, I hope to see you around the next camp fire.' David then spoke, saying: 'I'm so proud, so proud to work with these loud, loud films that it actually had silence in it. So good to work with this guy and I'm proud to represent all my Australian colleagues... Go Aussies!'. Last month director George Miller told of his delight at having his film nominated for 10 Oscars, revealing that he did not expect for Mad Max: Fury Road to receive so many nods. In high spirits: Mark Mangini (L) and David White accept their award for Best Sound Editing Sentimental: 'For thousands of years we've been telling stories in the dark around the flickering light whether a camp fire or a projector, David and I do all the sound,' Mark began Speaking to The Australian Women's Weekly, the 70-year-old Australian filmmaker revealed: 'It's a party I didn't expect to be invited to.' Telling of the moment he and his wife Margaret Sixel were told the project, which was filmed in Namibia and counts Tom Hardy, Megan Gale and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley among its stars, was nominated, Miller said: 'Needless to say we're doing little happy jigs and it's really nice to be invited to the party.' Miller previously won an Oscar for his animated film Happy Feet in 2014. The film has the highest number of nominations ever received by an Australian film and its Oscars victory even fuelled a #OscarsSoAussie hashtag on Twitter. Record: The film starring Tom Hardy has the highest number of nominations ever received by an Australian film Advertisement Jessica Alba wore a long white gown as she attended the Vanity Fair Oscar Party. The actress and business owner wore a flowing white gown with a bold black belt as she attended the star-studded Oscar Party in Beverly Hills on Sunday. Actresses Kate Bosworth, Emma Roberts, Emilia Clarke, Elizabeth Banks and Amy Adams also opted for glamorous white looks as they attended the party. Also spotted at the bash were Gwen Stefani and Blake Shelton, Kate Hudson, Mindy Kaling, Diane Kruger, Thandie Newton, Jeremy Renner, Kyle MacLachlan and Jon Hamm. British comedian James Corden and wife Julia Carey, singer Mary J Blige, producer Judd Apatow and media executives Rupert Murdoch and fiancee Jerry Hall, and newlyweds Liberty Ross and Jimmy Iovine also attended. Scroll down for video Elegant: Jessica Alba wore a plunging white gown with high front slit as she arrived at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party in Los Angeles on Sunday The 34-year-old looked relaxed as she smiled and strolled along with a hand in pocket. The Honest Company CEO's gown featured long flowing sleeves, a plunging neckline and a high front-slit. She wore her brunette hair in pretty curls, and added a bold David Webb necklace and thick black belt. Hollywood glamour: The actress kept one hand in her gown's pocket as she arrived at the venue Bright lights: Vanity Fair writer Derek Blasberg snapped a photo of the star Friendly faces: The pair later stopped to pose together as they prepared to let their hair down at the famous bash Sex symbol: Jessica oozed sex appeal in her flattering gown, giving a teasing glimpse of her toned legs as she walked along the carpet Kate Bosworth also attended the Hollywood bash, wearing a gorgeous lilac gown with ruffles over the neckline. The actress was joined by husband Michael Polish. Kate wore her blonde hair pulled back, and added bright coral lipstick and carried a glittery clutch. Delicate: Actress Kate Bosworth wore a striking lilac dress as she attended with husband Michael Polish Pretty: Kate's floor-length gown featured an off-the-shoulder design with large ruffles By her side: Kate smiled as husband Michael Polish whispered into her ear In the spotlight: The actress posed for photographers as she arrived at the Vanity Fair party in Los Angeles After-party: The couple held hands as they headed into the star-studded Oscars bash Actress Diane Kruger wore a stunning see-through burgundy gown as she arrived at the Vanity Fair bash. The German star's see-through dress featured intricate beading and a long sheer skirt with red fringes. She wore her blonde hair back and accessorized with a metallic clutch. Sheer glamour: Diane Kruger stunned in a see-through red gown with intricate beading and fringe Chic: The German star wore her blonde hair back in a loose braided updo Actress Amy Adam was also seen at the party, wearing a form-fitting white and black mesh dress as she arrived with husband Darren Le Gallo. The 41-year-old's gown featured white fabric with beige-toned panels and a black cross-pattern. She wore her pretty red hair in soft waves to one side, and added classic red lipstick. Date night: Amy Adams was accompanied by husband Darren De Gallo as she arrived at the party Body con: Amy flashed some leg in a white and nude-toned dress that clung to her curves Cute couple: The actress planted a sweet kiss on her husband as the arrived at the party The actress appeared to be in high spirits as she planted a kiss on her husband's cheek. Gwen Stefani and boyfriend Blake Shelton also made an impression as they arrived at the celebrity shindig. The style icon dared to bare in a sheer red gown with a bold floral design and see-through skirt with a petal design. Dare to bare: Gwen Stefani wore a see-through red gown with a bold floral pattern as she arrived with country singer Blake Shelton Eye-catching: The Voice judges held hands and beamed as they arrived at the party Pop stars: Gwen caught up with singer Demi Lovato, who wore a sheer black gown, at the Beverly Hills bash Stunning star: Charlize Theron looked incredibly glamorous in her gown which boasted a lengthy train Party time: Singer Taylor Swift wore a plunging black dress as she arrived with singer Lorde, who wore a sheer tulle skirt Kate Hudson opted for a revealing metallic look with sculpted bodice as she strolled into the venue. The actress and bestselling author glowed in a pleated silver gown as she smiled and struck a silly pose for the cameras. The shimmering gown featured cut out sides, a thigh-high slit and thin straps, and added towering silver platform heels. Metallic: Kate Hudson wore a pleated, reflective dress with side cut outs and a thigh-high slit Star power: The actress wore her blonde hair in a simple center part, and accessorized with a gold clutch Edgy: The dress featured a train and daring slit that showed off Kate's toned legs Pregnant Anne Hathaway also showed off her baby bump as she arrived at the bash with husband Adam Shulman. The Oscar-winner looked glowing in a black floor-length dress with gold sequins and draped sleeves. She wore her brunette hair up in a high ponytail twist, and added diamond drop earrings. Baby bump: Pregnant Anne Hathaway attended with husband Adam Shulman Expecting: The Oscar winner wore a flowing black gown with gold sequins Glowing: Anne beamed as she chatted with TV personality Kelly Ripa inside the Vanity Fair party Also showing off their baby bumps were pregnant actress Emily Blunt and Eddie Redmayne's wife Hannah Bagshawe. British star Emily, who is expecting her second child with husband John Krasinski, looked gorgeous in a soft pink gown with pretty silver embellishments. She wore her hair in soft curls and smiled as she arrived at the celebrity hotspot. Pretty in pink: Pregnant actress Emily Blunt looked radiant in a soft pink gown with silver embellishments Glamour: The Sicario star's gown featured a long train and she accessorized with a matching metallic clutch British actor Eddie Redmayne was joined by his wife Hannah Bagshawe, who is expecting their first child. The couple opted for matching velvet looks, with Eddie donning a stylish tux and Hannah wearing a flowing black gown with dramatic gold halter neckline. Fellow Brit Lily Collins hit the red carpet in an extremely revealing gown which made it very clear that she was not wearing a bra. The glimmering maxi-gown boasted gaping sides which flashed side boob and also her crescent moon tattoo sitting on her ribs. Stylish: Eddie Redmanye walked arm in arm with pregnant wife Hannah Bagshawe Also attending the party was actress Elizabeth Banks. The Pitch Perfect 2 director opted for an elegant white Ralph & Russo jumpsuit with flowing trousers, a sheer floral bodice and dramatic cape-like sleeves. The Hunger Games star pulled her blonde hair to one side, and added a large silver ring and white clutch. Sheer delight: Elizabeth Banks looked chic in a Ralph & Russo jumpsuit featuring a see-through bodice and flowing trousers Dramatic: The actress' ensemble featured floor-length, cape-like sleeves Vision in white: Elizabeth Banks smiled as she posed for photos at the celebrity after-party Singer Demi Lovato and actor Wilmer Valderrama were also guests at the party. Demi wore a pretty black gown with sheer embellished sleeves, while actor Wilmer looked handsome in a black tux with white polka dots. The couple appeared ready to celebrate, sharing a laugh as they arrived at the bash. Classy: Demi Lovato and Wilmer Valderrama also attended the party Look of love: The couple shared a smile as they arrived at the Hollywood party Glamor: The Cool For The Summer singer wore a black gown with sheer sleeves and skirt Singer Selena Gomez and model Helena Christensen both also followed the metallic trend. Selena wore a sequined floor-length gown with a circular pattern on the front, and added a matching silver clutch. Bright spark: Singer Selena Gomez shimmered in a silver sequined gown Gorgeous: Model Helena Christensen, left, wore a strapless silver gown while actress Kate Beckinsale looked elegant in a strapless white gown embellished with a navy pattern on the bodice Game of Thrones star Emilia Clarke wore a plunging white dress with small black polka dots, a black velvet bow and long train. She added a matching black clutch and wore emerald drop earrings. She was joined by her co-star Sophie Turner who looked simply sensational in a cobalt blue cut-out gown which clung to her figure and was set off perfectly against her bold red hair. Emma Roberts also opted for white, wearing a pretty diaphanous gown with a black swirling pattern. The Scream Queens star added a black ribbon belt and frilly black clutch. Vision in white: Emma Roberts wore a pretty white gown with a swirling black pattern and a KOTUR clutch Sheer: Emma's dress featured a plunging neckline and tulle fabric After-party: The actress' floor-length gown featured a sheer tulle skirt Low cut: The Game of Thrones star flashed some cleavage in her plunging white polka dot gown Pretty pattern: Emilia's gown had a long train and dark velvet bow Game Of Frocks: GoT star Sophie Turner was bold in blue as she joined her co-star Emilia at the all-star bash Also wearing white for the Hollywood party were tennis great Serena Williams and Scandal star Kerry Washington. Kerry flashed some cleavage in a low-cut white gown and backless design accented with yellow cross straps. The gown featured a shimmery, geometric pattern. The actress wore her hair swept back in a chic updo, and smiled as she chatted with actress Jennifer Garner. Chic: Actress Kerry Washington showed off her cleavage in a plunging white gown Flashing some skin: The Scandal star's gown featured a backless design with yellow cross-straps Beauty: Kerry added a splash of colour with her neon yellow tie which looked striking against the intricate silver beading Catching up: Kerry chatted with actress Jennifer Garner, who wore a black strapless gown with sparkles on the bodice Jennifer wore a dazzling black strapless gown with sparkly bodice and glittery diamond bracelet. Also opting for an eye-catching white gown was tennis champion Serena Williams, who wore a lace dress with a sheer midriff, cute pockets and low-cut neckline. The fashion designer smiled and tucked her hands in the gown's pockets as she arrived at the party. Serena also sported a new chic bob. Low cut: Tennis champion Serena Williams wore a sheer white gown with plunging neckline and sheer midriff Relaxed: The tennis player rested her hands in her pockets as she showed off a chic new bob Lace: Serena's gown featured a dramatic train and long sleeves Modern Family star Sofia Vergara also donned a tight white dress as she attended the Beverly Hills event. The actress looked gorgeous in a tight strapless dress in a shimmering fabric, which she accessorized with dazzling drop earrings and a thick diamond bracelet. Burlesque artist Dita Von Teese looked stunning a burnt orange gown with a hooped hem, which set off perfectly against her alabaster skin and jet black hair. She was joined on the red carpet by fashion designer Zac Posen who kept things simple in a tuxedo style suit. Dazzling: Sofia Vergara looked flawless in a strapless white gown in a shimmering fabric Hourglass figure: The Modern Family star cast a playful look over her shoulder as she modeled for the cameras Orange is the new black: Burlesque artist Dita Von Teese looked stunning a burnt orange gown with a hooped hem, which set off perfectly against her alabaster skin and jet black hair Colin Firth also was seen at the celebrity bash, with his wife, actress Livia Giuggioli. The British actor looked handsome in a classic black tuxedo with black bow-tie, while Livia wore a black dress with feathered neckline and an asymmetrical pink hemline. Also at the Vanity Fair party was singer Mary J Blige, who looked chic in a tight black dress with sparkling neckline. Kelly Ripa attended the event looking sensational in a skimpy black gown, which showed off every inch of her phenomenally toned figure. Mad Men star Jon Hamm also attended, flashing a smile as he arrived in a classic black tux. Friends in high fashion places: Dita, who was sporting glimmering heels, was joined on the red carpet by fashion designer Zac Posen who kept things simple in a tuxedo style suit. Glimmering girl: Kelly Ripa attended the event looking sensational in a skimpy black gown, which showed off every inch of her phenomenally toned figure Big smiles: Mad Men star Jon Hamm looked handsome in a black tuxedo, while E! News presenter Ryan Seacrest opted for a classy grey jacket Classy look: Actor Jeremy Renner struck a pose as he arrived for the party Classic black: Actress Melissa George, left, and singer Sheryl Crow both wore elegant black gowns Glittery: Rebel Wilson also opted for a black gown with silver embellishment on the waist Handsome: British actor Colin Firth and actress wife Livia Giuggioli also attended the Vanity Fair bash Bit of sparkle: Singer Mary J Blige wore a black gown with silver neckline, while Joan Collins wore a plunging white gown with glittery silver details on the waist Classic look: Mary J. Blige with husband Kendu Isaacs British actress Joan Collins also went for a glittery look, flashing some leg in a white gown with silver accents on the neckline and waist. The Late Late Show host James Corden was also seen at the party. The British comedian was accompanied by wife Julia Carey, who wore a stylish black gown with cut out sides and embellished waist. The pair appeared to be having fun, sharing a laugh and leaning in close. Actress Rooney Mara went for vintage glamour in an ornately detailed cream gown with a central cut-out which set off her alabaster skin to perfection. All eyes on me: Rooney went for a dramatic look, which was set off perfectly by the striped green and cream carpet Oozing glamour: Actress Rooney Mara went for vintage glamour in an ornately detailed cream gown with a central cut-out which set off her alabaster skin to perfection Stylish: Mindy Kaling wore a black Salvador Perez gown, while British actress Thandie Newton donned a slip dress with sheer skirt Also seen at the celebrity party were comedian Mindy Kaling and English actress Thandie Newton, who both opted for black gowns with shimmering clutches. Mindy's dress, by her show's costume designer Salvador Perez, featured a low-cut neckline with embellishments. Thandie wore a slip gown with sheer skirt and lace neckline. Black and white: Actress Anjelica Huston, left, and designer Diane von Furstenberg Actress Angelica Huston went for a menswear-inspired look, donning black trousers and a black jacket. The 64-year-old added a sparkling feather brooch to her lapel, and wore black and tan heels. Designer Diane von Furstenberg also looked glamorous at the party, wearing a black and white dress with a plush purple wrap. Stylish: Journalist Megyn Kelly flashed some skin while actress Amanda Peete wore a black gown with dramatic ruffled skirt Date night: The Late Late Show host James Corden and wife Julia Carey appeared in high spirits as they arrived for the party Cute: The couple shared a laugh as James rested a hand on his wife's back Famous faces: Conan O'Brien and wife Liza Powel, left, and tennis great John McEnroe with wife Patty Smyth Suited and booted: Nominee Matt Damon, up for his role in The Martian, was joined by his stunning wife Luciana, who he married a decade ago Newlyweds Liberty Ross and Jimmy Iovine also attended the party, just weeks after tying the knot in a Malibu ceremony. Liberty, who divorced director Rupert Sanders after he was photographed kissing Kristen Stewart, looked glamorous in a shimmering champagne gown. Nominee Matt Damon, up for his role in The Martian, was joined by his stunning wife Luciana, who he married a decade ago Media mogul Rupert Murdoch and fiance, model Jerry Hall, who wore a sequined black gown, also attended. Newlyweds: Liberty Ross and music producer Jimmy Iovine stayed close as they arrived at the bash Star-studded: Jimmy, Mary and Liberty chatted as they arrived at the Oscars party on Sunday night Engaged: Media mogul Rupert Murdoch and fiancee Jerry Hall arrived at the party in Los Angeles His son Lachlan Murdoch and model wife Sarah Murdoch also attended the party. The Australia's Next Top Model host wore a plunging black gown with sharp shoulders and long sleeves. Taking the plunge: Sarah Murdoch wore a low-cut black gown as she and husband Lachlan Murdoch arrived at the party on Sunday Classy: Sarah Murdoch wore a low-cut black gown, while Liberty Ross wore a shimmery halter-necked gown Lady in red: The Talk host Julie Chen and husband Les Moonves, CEO of CBS, beamed as they arrived to celebrate Hollywood's biggest night Stylish: Kelsey Grammar and wife Kate Walsh, who wore a bright blue strapless gown, also attended the bash Larry David also attended the party, wearing a black tuxedo as he hammed it up for photographers. The comedy legend wore a sliver tie as he posed with arms out while arriving at the bash. Comedy producer Judd Apatow was also seen attending the star-studded bash, sharing a laugh with actor Martin Short. Good times: Producer Judd Apatow, left, greeted actor Martin Short What? Comedian Larry David struck a pose as he arrived at the party Stylish: Monica Lewinsky wore a fringed strapless gown, while actress Patricia Clarkson wore a plunging dress with colorful floral design Bidding hello: Melanie Griffiths gracefully greeted the photographers as she headed into the do Sophisticated: Actor Kyle MacLachlan was joined by producer wife Desiree Gruber, who wore a pretty navy dress with a gold belt Monica Lewinsky, who is now a Vanity Fair contributor, wore a strapless, fringed black gown, while actress Patricia Clarkson wore a low-cut white gown with pretty floral accents. Bleach blond Pharrell Williams trod the red carpet in a suave suit with his stunning model wife Helen Lasichanh who went for a simplistic cold shoulder gown Designer Tori Burch also opted for color in a bright orange dress with dark gem neckline. And Magic City actress Kelly Lynch flashed her midriff in a sheer sparkling halter top and long leather skirt. Also attending the party was Hollywood super-producer Brian Grazer, who was accompanied by his fourth wife Veronica Smiley. The pair, who married last weekend, cuddled up on the red carpet. Trendy duo: Bleach blond Pharrell Williams trod the red carpet in a suave suit with his stunning model wife Helen Lasichanh who went for a simplistic cold shoulder gown Bow: Insider host Keltie Knight wore a bold red dress with large bow, while Entertainment Tonight presenter Carly Steele showed off her cleavage in a plunging white dress by Black Halo, which she paired with dazzling jewelry from British designer Esther Eyre Colorful: Designer Tori Birch wore a floor-length orange gown, while jewelry designer Lisa Eisner stood out in a fluffy pink cape More sparkles: Actress Catherine O'Hara wore an elegant emerald gown as she arrived with her husband, production designer Bo Welch Sheer: Actress Kelly Lynch flashed her midriff in a sparkling halter neck top and long leather skirt Just married: Hollywood producer Brian Grazer and wife Veronica Smiley, who tied the knot last weekend, also attended the Vanity Fair party Hollywood party: Producer Judd Apatow, left, and actor Bob Balaban both opted for black tuxedos Candid snap: Jessica Alba was captured laughing away inside the bash as she spoke to fellow attendants 2016 OSCAR WINNERS BEST PICTURE The Big Short Bridge of Spies Brooklyn Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Room Winner: Spotlight DIRECTING Adam McKay, The Big Short George Miller, Mad Max: Fury Road Winner: Alejandro G. Inarritu, The Revenant Lenny Abraham, Room Tom McCarthy, Spotlight ACTOR IN A LEADING ROLE Bryan Cranston, Trumbo Matt Damon, The Martian Winner: Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant Michael Fassbender, Steve Jobs Eddie Redmayne, The Danish Girl ACTRESS IN A LEADING ROLE Cate Blanchett, Carol Winner: Brie Larson, Room Jennifer Lawrence, Joy Charlotte Rampling, 45 Years Saoirse Ronan, Brooklyn ACTOR IN A SUPPORTING ROLE Christian Bale, The Big Short Tom Hardy, The Revenant Mark Ruffalo, Spotlight Winner: Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies Sylvester Stallone, Creed ACTRESS IN A SUPPORTING ROLE Jennifer Jason Leigh, The Hateful Eight Rooney Mara, Carol Rachel McAdams, Spotlight Winner: Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl Kate Winslet, Steve Jobs ANIMATED FEATURE FILM Anomalisa Boy and the World Winner: Inside Out Shaun the Sheep Movie When Marnie Was There CINEMATOGRAPHY Carol The Hateful Eight Mad Max: Fury Road Winner: The Revenant Sicario Mad Max: Fury Road WRITING (ADAPTED SCREENPLAY) Winner: The Big Short Brooklyn Carol The Martian Room WRITING (ORIGINAL SCREENPLAY) Bridge of Spies Ex Machina Inside Out Winner: Spotlight Straight Outta Compton SHORT FILM (ANIMATED) Winner: Bear Story Prologue Sanjay's Super Team We Can't Live without Cosmos World of Tomorrow SHORT FILM (LIVE ACTION) Ave Maria Day One Everything Will Be Okay (Alles Wird Gut) Shok Winner: Stutterer COSTUME DESIGN Carol Cinderella The Danish Girl Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant DOCUMENTARY (FEATURE) Winner: Amy Cartel Land The Look of Silence What Happened, Miss Simone? Winter on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom DOCUMENTARY (SHORT SUBJECT) Body Team 12 Chau, beyond the Lines Claude Lanzmann: Spectres of the Shoah Winner: A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness Last Day of Freedom FILM EDITING The Big Short Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant Spotlight Star Wars: The Force Awakens FOREIGN LANGUAGE FILM Embrace of the Serpent Mustang Winner: Son of Saul Theeb A War MAKEUP AND HAIRSTYLING Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed out the Window and Disappeared The Revenant MUSIC (ORIGINAL SCORE) Bridge of Spies Carol Winner: The Hateful Eight Sicario Star Wars: The Force Awakens MUSIC (ORIGINAL SONG) Earned It, Fifty Shades of Grey Manta Ray, Racing Extinction Simple Song #3, Youth Til It Happens To You, The Hunting Ground Winner: Writing's On The Wall, Spectre PRODUCTION DESIGN Bridge of Spies The Danish Girl Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant SOUND EDITING Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Sicario Star Wars: The Force Awakens Star Wars: The Force Awakens - Oscars 2016 SOUND MIXING Bridge of Spies Winner: Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Star Wars: The Force Awakens VISUAL EFFECTS Winner: Ex Machina Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Star Wars: The Force Awakens Advertisement She may have been awake at the crack of dawn to take her hosting seat on Channel Seven's Sunrise. But on Monday, Samantha Armytage looked bright-eyed and bushy-tailed as she kicked off the network's road trip with co-hosts David 'Kochie' Koch and Natalie Barr. As she touched down in Brisbane, the 38-year-old looked stylish in a knee-length white polka dot dress. On the road again: On Monday, Samantha Armytage looked bright-eyed and bushy-tailed as she kicked off the network's road trip with co-hosts David 'Kochie' Koch and Natalie Barr The round collared garment showed off her curves as it hugged her torso before flowing loosely from her waistline. The television presenter added some height to stature with a pair of black peep-toed high heels which tied up around her ankles. Despite sticking to a black and white theme, Samantha accessorised with a tan handbag which she hung over her right shoulder. Elegant: As she touched down in Brisbane, the 38-year-old looked stylish in a knee-length white polka dot dress Simple: The round collared garment showed off her curves as it hugged her torso before flowing loosely from her waistline Flat out: The 38-year-old TV host wore her blonde locks out and parted at the side, her tresses straightened with a slight flick at the ends Three, two, one: While on set Samantha looked in deep concentration as she prepared for her live cross She wore her blonde locks out and parted at the side, her tresses straightened with a slight flick at the ends. The journalist kept her makeup simple for the live cross, opting for a natural eye shadow and a deep pink lipstick. Meanwhile, her co-star Natalie opted for a denim-style shirt, which tied up tightly around her waist with a matching coloured belt. She teamed the short sleeved garment with a simple black pencil skirt and beige sandals, which featured a small heel. The show's co-host Kochie dressed down for the occasion, slipping into a pair of black trousers and a light pink button-up shirt. Company: Meanwhile, her co-star Natalie opted for a denim-style shirt, which tied up tightly around her waist with a matching coloured belt By her side: The pair laughed and flahed large smiles as they rushed past photographers towards their outdoor studio Joining the team: The show's co-host Kochie was also there and added a touch of colour to his look, dressing in a light pink button-up shirt Keeping comfortable: He also donned a pair of simple black trousers as well as a pair of leather sneakers Where you can find Sunrise: Monday February 29 Brisbane: Southbank, Brisbane Tuesday March 1 John Laws Park, Burleigh Heads Wednesday March 2 Palm Beach (aka Summer Bay), Sydney Thursday March 3 Wet n' Wild, Prospect, Sydney Friday March 4 Melbourne: Location TBA Advertisement Sunrise's road trip across the east coast of Australia began on Monday and will conclude on Friday. The team of hosts and producers will wrap up their on-the-road show in Melbourne after visiting locations in Brisbane, Gold Coast and Sydney. This isn't the first time the Sunrise crew have taken their show outside of their Martin Place studio. Last year the team successfully travelled to five countries across the globe in a five days. They visited Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, London in the UK, New York in America, Niagara Falls in Canada and Cancun, Mexico. She was nominated for Best Actress, yet the lead up to her big night has been anything but smooth. As Charlotte Rampling stepped out on the red carpet at the Oscars, talk should have been about her role in 45 years or, at the very least her outfit, but there was no escaping her previous comments about the #OscarsSoWhite controversy. The 70-year-old made headlines worldwide after she declared a proposed boycott 'racist to whites' and said, that 'perhaps the black actors did not deserve to make the final list'. Scroll down for video and all the Academy Award 2016 winners Been a journey: Charlotte Rampling stepped out on the red carpet at the Oscars on Sunday after her controversial comments about the diversity boycott While the English star has since expressed regret over her comments, no doubt they weighed heavily on her as she arrived at the Academy Awards in Hollywood on Sunday. Perhaps wanting to not make too much of a statement on the carpet, Charlotte wore an understated look for her big night. The actress stepped out in a muted toned sequinned patterned dress which featured long sleeves and high neckline. The gown also featured a pocket with blue sequins creating a textured detail which was replicated on the dress' sleeves. Regretful: While the English star has since expressed regret over her comments, no doubt they weighed heavily on her as she arrived at the Academy Awards Understated style: The actress stepped out in a muted toned sequinned patterned dress which featured long sleeves and high neckline Devil's in the detail: The gown also featured a pocket with blue sequins creating a textured detail which was replicated on the dress' sleeves The long gown also had a knee high split that showed off The Look star's unusual lilac silk pumps. While her dress was low key, the star impressed thanks to her timeless beauty with the 70-year-old looking years younger than her actual age. Charlotte kept her makeup to a minimum and wore her brown short locks swept to one side with small waves. Getting her kicks: The long gown also had a knee high split that showed off the star's unusual lilac silk pumps Just a number: While her dress was low key, the star impressed thanks to her timeless beauty with the 70-year-old looking years younger than her actual age Charlotte was nominated for Best Actress for her role in 45 Years. The the film she plays a woman whose life is changed forever after her husband finds out that body of his long-lost girlfriend has been found, almost five decades after she went missing. The 70-year-old model turned actress was nominated alongside Kate Winslet, Jennifer Lawrence, Cate Blanchett and Brie Larson, who took out the category. Moving piece: Charlotte was nominated for Best Actress for her role in 45 Years which she stars in opposite Tom Courtenay Lindy Klim had some welcome company as she stepped out for lunch in Bali on Sunday, little more than a week after confirming her separation from sportsman husband Michael. The brunette, currently holidaying on the Indonesian island with children Stella, Frankie and Rocco, was joined by a handsome male friend during an appearance at the lavish Ku De Ta beach club. Sporting a smart monochrome summer dress, Lindy, 37, was in high spirits as they laughed and joked amongst themselves while occupying an outdoor table. Side by side: Lindy Klim had some welcome company as she stepped out for lunch in Bali on Sunday, little more than a week after confirming her separation from sportsman husband Michael The Balinese princess completed her look with a pair of heavily tinted sunglasses, while her tousled her was styled in a neatly tied bun. Sitting by her side Lindy's male companion appeared be equally chipper, offering a broad grin as they chatted. Lindy and Michael announced their split in a joint statement on Thursday. In good company: The brunette, currently holidaying on the Indonesian island with children Stella, FRankie and Rocco, was joined by a handsome male friend during an appearance at the lavish Ku De Ta beach club Good times: Sporting a smart monochrome summer dress, Lindy, 37, was in high spirits as they chatted at an outdoor table Upbeat: Sitting by her side Lindy's male companion appeared be in a chipper mood, offering a broad grin as they chatted The pair's management reportedly told news.com.au: 'It is with much respect for each other that Michael and Lindy Klim have agreed to formally separate, believing that this decision is best for their family. 'Michael and Lindys children will always remain their highest priority, and their happiness will be Michael and Lindys primary focus. We ask that you respect their privacy at this time.' The news comes two weeks after Lindy revealed to Daily Mail Australia that she and the sportsman struggle to find time for one another given their respective work commitments. Side by side: The pair enjoyed a quiet chat as sat together at the Bali venue on Sunday 'It is difficult, we are trying to work our way through that at the moment but it is difficult,' the 37-year-old said. 'The distance thing is very hard but also marriage is difficult in itself. We are just doing the best we can at the moment, we'll see.' For months they have been dogged by split rumours after they were last seen together at an event in Melbourne back in December. Daily Mail Australia have contacted Lindy for further comment. She's not one to shy away from flashing a little flesh and regularly puts her long and lean model figure on display in risque outfits. But Nicole Trunfio was playing it rather conservative on Sunday night when she arrived at Sir Elton John's Oscars viewing party in a much more covered up ensemble. The mother-of-one opted for a loose fitting frock with a floaty hemline that just skimmed her ankles and long sleeves as she arrived at the West Hollywood venue. Underwraps: Nicole Trunfio came over all conservative in a loose-fitting frock at Sir Elton John's Oscars viewing party in Hollywood on Sunday The deep green design by The Row was cinched in at the waist with the help of a belt that also pulled the dress' fabric against her bust and made it evident Nicole wasn't wearing a bra. Leaving her honey-highlighted locks loose in soft waves, the 29-year-old went for a bronzed beauty look. Smokey eyeshadow and a neutral lip made her eyes and lips pop and she added plenty of sparkle with a glittering Bvlgari necklace. She was joined at the bash by fellow Australian Jessica Gomes and Mariah Carey, who is newly engaged to billionaire James Packer. Conservative: The mother-of-one's frock with a floaty hemline that just skimmed her ankles and long sleeves All that glitters: She added plenty of sparkle with a Bvlgari necklace Star-studded: She was joined at the bash by fellow Australian Jessica Gomes and Mariah Carey, who is newly engaged to billionaire James Packer Nicole has been making the most of the Oscars season and last week attended two pre-Academy Award parties. On Saturday, she mingled with fellow models Jasmine Tookes and Martha Hunt at a Weinstein Company hosted bash in Los Angeles and left little to the imagination in a very clingy black frock. Semi-sheer cut-outs across the body of the design highlighted her taut tummy and statuesque legs and she suffered a nip slip while going braless. She was even less covered up at a similar party the night before where she slipped into a black mini dress. Kym Johnson had an extra lift to her step thanks to her new fiance Robert Herjavec and that massive diamond ring on her finger. The sweethearts who met and fell in love on Dancing With The Stars were definitely aglow as they hit up the 24th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation's Oscar Viewing Party in West Hollywood, California on Sunday. It was their first public appearance since announcing their engagement on Saturday and although she wore a black gown, Kym was already beaming like a bride. Scroll down for video Going public: DWTS lovebirds Kym Johnson and Robert Herjavec were all smiles as they made their first public appearance since announcing their engagement at Elton John's Oscars viewing party on Sunday The DWTS pro-dancer, 39, and her Shark Tank fiance, 53, hugged and mugged for the cameras. Kym looked chic and sexy in a strapless and shimmery black number with sheer billowing skirt that showcased her toned limbs. Her skin was golden while her blonde hair was gathered back in an elegant bun with a few escaping wispy strands. They're together: The Aussie pro-dancer, 39, and the Canadian businessman, 53, announced their engagement on Saturday and were still aglow the next day as they arrived to the Oscars bash Bling is beautiful: Kym showed off her dazzling diamond engagement ring There were diamonds at her ears but the most eye-catching accessory, of course, was that sparkling bauble on her left wedding ring finger. Kym took every opportunity to show off the diamond sparkler by gently placing the palm of that hand on Robert's chest as they smiled for the cameras. And further down the arrivals line, Kym didn't mind showing off the ring as she wrapped an arm around his shoulders. Partners: The couple met and fell on love when they were partnered together during season 20 of DWTS; they were pictured on March 16, 2015 Affectionate: Robert planted a kiss on his sweetheart at the premiere of Star Wars: The Force Awakens last December in Hollywood This will be the Aussie beauty's first marriage and Robert's second trip down the aisle. Robert announced his separation from his wife Diane Plese last April after 15 years of marriage; they share three children. The couple announced their intention to marry on Saturday, and Kym told People: 'I'm just overwhelmed and so happy. He's a wonderful man and I'm so lucky.' Look of love: Robert was all gooey over Kym as she promoted her book The 5-6-7-8 Diet in San Diego, CA on February 9 Earlier on Sunday, Kym was still on cloud nine as she took to social media to gush about her new fiance. Sharing a sweet snap of the pair, Kym wrote: 'I never thought a year ago I'd meet someone who would change my life completely! 'I'm the luckiest girl in the world because last night the love of my life @robert_herjavec asked me to marry him and I said yes!' she added. They're the radio pranksters who recently flew to the South African jungle to 'stitch up' the I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! campers. And Nova 96.9 duo Fitzy and Wippa were up to their usual tricks as they disguised as 'park rangers' to sabotage contestant Paul 'The Chief' Harragon's Tucker Trial in a preview clip aired ahead of Monday night's episode. But Ryan Fitzy Fitzgerald had another surprise for his co-host - as he abandoned Michael Wippa Wipfli in the jungle in a hilarious 'double stitch up', the radio station reports. Scroll down for video Prank: Sydney's Nova 96.9 co-hosts Fitzy and Wippa (right and centre) disguised themselves as 'rangers' to sabotage NRL legend Paul Harragon's (left) Tucker Trial on I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! on Monday The breakfast show pair arrived at Kruger National Park yesterday ahead of a pre-planned week of broadcasts from the I'm A Celebrity camp. But Fitzy and Wippa couldn't resist a bit of trouble-making as they filmed a 'rigged' Tucker Trail with NRL legend Paul, 47 - with the help of TV hosts Dr. Chris Brown and Julia Morris. Despite having a solid track record in winning meals for the camp during the trials, Paul didn't stand a chance with the odds stacked against him during the buzz wire challenge. Going undercover: DJs Ryan Fitzy Fitzgerald, 39 (L) and Michael Wippa Wipfli, 36 (R) - who are currently recording their popular breakfast show from the South African jungle - wore prosthetic noses for the TV prank Disguised as 'rangers' in jungle outfits and prosthetic noses, Fitzy and Wippa secretly controlled the buzzer as Paul struggled to navigate a metal ring without touching the wire. While Paul kept a steady hand, the radio hosts repeatedly set off the alarm - which caused a tank strapped around the rugby legend's head to steadily fill with water and catfish. In a preview video released by Channel Ten, Wippa struggles to hold back laughs as he watches Paul get increasingly frustrated with the hopeless task. Oh dear! Despite his steady hand, the tank strapped to 47-year-old Paul's head filled with water and catfish as he struggled to navigate a metal ring without touching the wire - but he didn't know Wippa controlled the buzzer Troublemaker: Wippa, who controlled the buzzer, watched with delight as Paul's tank filled with water during the rigged Tucker Trial - and the rugby star ultimately walked away without a single meal for the camp Meanwhile, Fitzy, 39 - who wore thick-rimmed spectacles and fake beard - is forced to bow his head to conceal his giggling. Earlier in the day, Fitzy and Wippa shared photos on Instagram from the make-up chair as they got their outfits ready for the fixed trial. Wippa, 36, opted for a bushy black beard and jungle green shirt and shorts with black hiking boots. Meanwhile, the taller Fitzy rocked a 70s-style look with spectacles and flesh-coloured facial hair. Beyond recognition: The Nova breakfast show co-hosts wore unsightly prosthetic noses for the elaborate joke - which was helped along by I'm A Celebrity presenters Dr. Chris Brown and Julia Morris Not exactly a good look! The DJs posted this close-up shot of Wippa's realistic-looking fake nose to their Instagram on Monday, several hours before the Channel Ten broadcast Both DJs were virtually unrecognisable in rather unsightly, large prosthetic noses - and it would seem camper Paul was none the wiser. By the end of the challenge, Paul left thoroughly disappointed believing he's let down his friends - having failed to win a single meal for camp. But later that evening, the Nova FM duo entered the camp, with Fitzy explaining: 'Chief, you should recognise us because we were at your trial today.' 'Has anyone seen Scooby Doo?' Fitzy joked on the pair's Instagram that he looked like Shaggy from the Scooby Doo cartoons and films while in disguise as a park ranger on Monday's episode of I'm A Celebrity Wippa added: 'You didnt stand a chance today. You came back and you felt like a failure. We need to apologise. 'We were on the buzzer the entire time. You were never going to win!' As a reward, the camp was treated by producers to beer, wine and food - before Fitzy shockingly revealed there's actually been a 'double stitch-up'. It turns out that Wippa has been left in the jungle with the eight remaining celebrities - while Fitzy returned to his luxury campsite. 'I wasn't really meant to be stitched up like this,' complained Wippa in the Tok Tokkie Diary Room later that night. It remains to be seen how long the radio host will stay in the jungle, or who will be filling his shoes for his Nova FM breakfast show. I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out of Here! airs Monday night at 7:30pm on Channel Ten Last time he performed on Australia's Got Talent, he got judge Kelly Osbourne quite hot under the collar after he flirted up a storm with her. And on Monday night's semi-final, robotic Erik The Dog was at it again, this time also wooing Sophie Monk with his cheeky quick wit and sexy dance moves, which also led to all four judges unanimously deciding to send him through to the grand final. However despite the judges being taken with the cheeky dog which sang, danced and twerked along to 'I'm Too Sexy,' with the help of a croup of female dancers, viewers of the show were less impressed, as they took to Twitter to express their outrage at the judges' decision. Scroll down for video 'This is a joke': On Monday's Australia's Got Talent, Robotic Erik The Dog was selected by the judges to go through to the grand final, however the decision was met with harsh criticism from viewers Hot under the collar: The dog successfully wooed judges Kelly Osbourne and Sophie Monk with his cheeky quick wit and sexy dance moves as he also flirted up a storm with both judges 'Seriously judges, Erik The Dog into the grand final? That is a joke!' one angry viewer wrote following the show. 'Erik The Dog through to the grand final in front of King Social, please! Give me a break! I say bulls***,' expressed another. 'How can Erik The Dog be in the grand final? Disappointed!' another commented. 'You'd be p***** if you were on Australia's Got Talent and the judges decided a dog-shaped remote control car was better than you. Ludicrous!' said another disappointed fan. While another viewer simply wrote: 'They've lost the plot!' Fury: However despite the judges being taken with the cheeky dog which sang, danced and twerked, viewers of the show were less impressed, as they took to Twitter to express their outrage at the judges decision 'Erik The Dog through to the grand final in front of King Social, please! Give me a break! I say bulls***,' expressed one user on Twitter 'How can Erik The Dog be in the grand final? Disappointed!' another commented 'You'd be pissed if you were on Australia's Got Talent and the judges decided a dog-shaped remote control car was better than you. Ludicrous!' said another disappointed fan Outrage: While another viewer simply wrote: 'They've lost the plot!' The judges decision could result in the robotic dog taking home a whopping prize of $250,000 - a first ever for the show. The performance had all four judges in fits of laughter, but in particular it was Kelly, who appeared to be swept off her feet by the dog as she became quite hot under the collar throughout the performance, leading to her label him as her 'boyfriend.' Following the performance, Kelly began heavily flirting with the dog as she declared that while he is her 'boyfriend,' she felt betrayed by him. 'I feel like you have cheated on me - you had six gorgeous women on the stage and not one of them was me,' she admitted. Erik cheekily quipped back, saying: 'But I was thinking about you.' Hilarious: The performance had all four judges in fits of laughter, but in particular it was Kelly, who appeared to be swept off her feet by the dog His biggest fan: Kelly became quite hot under the collar throughout the performance, leading to her label Erik as her 'boyfriend' In demand: Following the performance, Kelly began heavily flirting with the dog However, despite Kelly's obvious interest in him, the dog appeared to be quite taken by Kelly's fellow judge Sophie Monk, as he gushed over the blonde beauty, putting the best friends in a rather uncomfortable love triangle. 'It's just that you're really nice that's all,' he admitted to her in a bid to woo her. However, Sophie had a bone to pick with him, as she pointed out that despite him pouring attention on her tonight, last time he didn't even know her name. 'Names-shames baby,' he replied, much to the shock of Sophie, who conceded: 'You are very smart and fast!' 'It's just that you're really nice that's all': Despite Kelly's obvious interest in him, the dog appeared to be quite taken by Kelly's fellow judge Sophie, as he gushed over the blonde beauty Cheeky: Sophie pointed out that despite him pouring attention on her tonight, last time he didn't even know her name, to which he replied saying 'Names-shames baby!' Kelly then interrupted their apparent flirting, saying: 'You're a pimp but I like you more and more,' before reminding him once more that he was her boyfriend. The dog then replied saying: 'I need to bounce,' as he made a dash off stage, which resulted in him toppling over onto his back. Sophie then had to get up from her seat to help him get back on his feet, and Erik later thanked her saying: 'Thanks baby!' Vying for his attention: Kelly then interrupted their apparent flirting, saying: 'You're a pimp but I like you more and more,' before reminding him once more that he was her boyfriend 'I need to bounce': The dog then made a quick dash off stage, which resulted in him toppling over onto his back Getting up close: Sophie then had to get up from her seat to help him get back on his feet, and Erik later thanked her saying: 'Thanks baby!' The quick-witted canine robot also unleashed a number of cheeky one-liners throughout the performance, asking the audience: 'Whose a bad dog?' As the female performers strutted their stuff around the dog, Erik appeared to get quite excited, saying: 'Let's get it on!' and 'Holy s*** Shirley!' As he sang along to the seductive tune, the dog performed his best sultry dance moves on stage, before getting picked up and carried around by the dancers. 'Come on girls pick me up - it's time to go for a sexy dog walk!' he yelled. Comedic: The quick-witted canine robot also unleashed a number of cheeky one-liners throughout the performance, asking the audience: 'Whose a bad dog?' 'It's time to go for a sexy dog walk!' As he sang along to the seductive tune, the dog performed his best sultry dance moves on stage, before getting picked up and carried around by the dancers Also performing on the night was King Social, a Motley crew of musicians from all different genres, who missed out on securing a definite place in the grand final, despite impressing all four judges who were seen clapping along throughout their entire song. An ecstatic Kelly even screamed out 'Yes!' in delight during the song. The performance received raving reviews from the judges, with Sophie exclaiming: 'Last time I thought you were great, this time I thought you were awesome!' Talented: King Social missed out on securing a definite place in the grand final, despite impressing all four judges who were seen clapping along throughout their entire performance However, she also asked one of the band members shirtless stars if always opted for such minimal clothing. 'Do you wear shirts ever? You don't have to,' she conceded, adding 'I don't wear them sometimes!' Kelly also thought the croup was amazing saying: 'You are a Motley crew of amazing-ness - there was a lot to live up to but you knocked it out of the park.' Eddie revealed he had enjoyed the performance, but said his only criticism was that the song was 'a little country heavy,' adding: 'I didn't love that song.' Meanwhile, Dicko congratulated the group on performing their own original song, before saying they would make a great addition to the Australian festival circuit. Impressed: The performance received raving reviews from the judges, with Sophie exclaiming: 'Last time I thought you were great, this time I thought you were awesome!' Also performing on the night was impersonators, Susie Jay and Joe Ace who took on the role of Sandy and Danny from the iconic movie Grease. The pair sang their hearts out, and even had the judges singing along with them. Following the performance, Dicko commented on their choice of costume, saying: 'It must be fun living in your house with that dress up box.' The couple laughed before telling Dicko he must 'come over.' 'Only if I can play Rizzo,' the cheeky judge quipped back. Sophie further inquired about their love for dressing up, asking: 'Do you ever go, "hey honey be Marilyn tonight".' The contestant responded cheekily saying: ' I never really know who I am going to bed with.' Viewers were treated to an insight into Havana Brown's eating habits on Monday night's installment of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here. Despite her slender size, the blonde DJ found herself branded as the biggest eater by her fellow contestant Anthony Callea. He told viewers:'She will eat fruit peels, the ends of zucchinis, not really nice, anything that you would throw in the bin, Havana eats,' before adding: 'She's a little piggy!' Scroll down for video Hungry hippo in the jungle! Viewers were treated to an insight into Havana Brown's excessive eating habit on Monday night's installment of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here Havana, wasn't shy to proclaim her love for gustatory delights, telling the diary room camera: 'I have to put my hand up, I'm the one that probably eats the most. Eating is probably one of my favourite things to do. In life, in general'. Her on-camera admission was accompanied with a montage of clips featuring Havana going back for multiple servings of food and even dipping into a bowl of barely-cooked rice. 'Where does she fit it? I look at a fizz pizza and I put on kilos', Brendan Fevola later told the camera with a look of disbelief. 'Anything that you would throw in the bin, Havana eats': Anthony Callea outed Havana as being the biggest eater on camp 'Where does she fit it?' Brendan Fevola was flabbergasted at how much the petite blonde ate It comes it was revealed on the show that Havana had lost the least amount of weight on camp, clocking in at only 1.77% body fat. Pint sized Anthony was also outed by Paul 'The Chief' Harrigan as eating an inordinate amount of food on camp. 'Havana and Anthony are great on it, they would eat for Australia', quipped Paul in the diary room. 'Eating is probably one of my favourite things to do': Havana, wasn't shy to proclaim her love for gustatory delights At the beginning of the episode, the campers were told that they no longer had to fulfill their jungle chores. While most of the contestants were glad to hear that they had been freed from their regimented tasks, Laurina Fleure, whose task so far had been to wash the dishes with Dean Geyer, sang a different tune. 'Now they take away the chores! Now, when I've been like a wild horse that that's been finally broken in and been compliant and co-operative, now they take away the chores!' said an exasperated Laurina in the diary room. Tucking in: Havana's on-camera admission was accompanied with a montage of clips featuring Havana going back for multiple servings of food and even dipping into a bowl of barely-cooked rice Where does it go? It comes it was revealed on the show that Havana had lost the least amount of weight on camp, clocking in at only 1.77% body fat Chief also seemed wary about the chaos that the lack of allocated chores may bring to the camp, saying: 'I am grateful that we have got freedom to choose. However, I'm not relaxed at all. This is can go pear-shaped and people can argue they're not doing their job.' Nevertheless, the chore board was promptly burnt in the campfire and the celebrities agreed to wash their own plates from now on. Meanwhile, Val took the opportunity to offer her cooking services, despite the fact that she had been removed from her chef duties during Sunday night's episode due to her bad attitude. 'Now they take away the chores!' Laurina Fleure found herself upset after the campers were freed from their regimented tasks 'I don't mind doing dinners', said Val to the campers, as Anthony looked on in shock. Later, in the diary room, Anthony reflected on the moment, saying: 'One of the most surprising things that came out of the conversation of no chores was Val putting her hand up to cook again and especially dinner!' Later in the episode, Havana Brown and Shane Warne were filmed enjoying a discussion about model and actress Carmen Electra. 'I don't mind doing dinners': Val seemed happy to resume her role as camp chef despite spitting the dummy over cooking duties on Sunday night's episode Say what? Anthony was shocked when Val offered to take on the role of cooking 'I follow her on Instagram. That's my look', gushed Shane when Havana raised the topic of the former Baywatch babe. 'Do you know her?' Shane asked excitedly, to which Havana casually replied, 'yeah, yeah. I've been out to dinner with her and stuff'. Shane, barely containing his excitement, quickly asked: 'Is she married?' 'No, she's single. She's available,' said Havana before slyly adding: 'that could be little stitch-up'. 'Do a blind dinner date for four!' exclaimed Shane, before revealing perhaps too much about his obsession with the buxom starlet: 'She's my age, isn't she too? I follow her on Insta. Every day, that's it, that's the one', gushed Shane. Next in the episode, viewers saw Paul 'The Chief' Harrigan attempt a tucker trial titled: 'Screaming Headache' Next in the episode, viewers saw Paul 'The Chief' Harrigan attempt a tucker trial titled: 'Screaming Headache'. The competition saw the sportsman put his head inside a perspex fish tank filled with cat fish as he tried to complete a buzzwire maze. Unfortunately for Paul, the trial was made significantly harder by the presence of NOVA FM radio hosts Fitzy and Wippa, who were disguised as camp rangers and tasked with sabotaging Paul's chances of winning. Undercover agents: The trial was made significantly harder by the presence of NOVA FM radio hosts Fitzy and Wippa, who were disguised as camp rangers and tasked with sabotaging Paul's chances of winning 'We will be controlling the buzzer. So even if he gets close to the end and thinks I've made it, gone. Buzzed out', whispered Wippa, cheekily smiling at the camera. Fitzy and Wippa completed their mission without a hitch, successfully making Paul believe that his own incompetence was to blame for his failure to earn even one star. 'It seemingly felt like it doesn't matter what I did, I was never going to do it. For some reason that thing wasn't going to work for me. I kept getting caught in the same spot', griped Paul after failing the challenge miserably. Devious: 'We will be controlling the buzzer. So even if he gets close to the end and thinks I've made it, gone. Buzzed out', whispered Wippa, cheekily smiling at the camera Success! Fitzy and Wippa completed their mission without a hitch, successfully making Paul believe that his own incompetence was to blame for his failure to earn even one star Next in the episode, tensions began to rise when Val Lehman misplaced Laurina's prized rose gold and diamond bracelet. Laurina had previously given Val the trinket, worth $1,100, for safe keeping and had since forgotten to ask for it back. 'I love that bracelet!' lamented Laurina after Val delivered the news that she had misplace the expensive piece of jewellery. Confused: 'It seemingly felt like it doesn't matter what I did, I was never going to do it,' said Paul after failing the challenge Meanwhile, Brendan took to the diary room to vent his frustration at Laurina's display, exasperatedly asking the camera: 'Who brings an 1100 dollar bracelet into the jungle?' Laurina was forced to rifle through the decomposing pieces of food and insects that inhabited the camp's compost heap in an attempt to find the misplaced bracelet. Val eventually found the bracelet and presented it to Laurina, prompting the raven-haired model to warmly embrace Val with gratitude. Lost and found: Next in the episode, tensions began to rise when Val Lehman misplaced Laurina's prized rose gold and diamond bracelet Fitzy and Wippa made another appearance on the show when they were dropped into the middle of camp inside a large cargo box while still disguised as camp rangers. After the radio hosts burst out of the mystery box and revealed their identities, they turned to Paul with the revelation that they had sabotaged his tucker trial. The talk show stars were then invited to spend dinner time with the contestants. Fancy seeing you here! Fitzy and Wippa made another appearance on the show when they were dropped into the middle of camp inside a large cargo box while still disguised as camp rangers What Wippa didn't know, is that he would be spending the entire night at the campsite while Fitzy headed back to his luxury hotel. Dashing off to the diary room during dinner, Fitzy confided in front of the camera that: 'Over the years Wippa has stitched me up many a time. And this is my time to shine. So Michael John Wipley, this is a double stitch-up. We got chief the first time, you're the second'. Wippa soon realised that he had unknowingly joined the celebrity cast of the show thanks to a letter left by Fitzy and a video message from his wife, who was also in on the prank. 'It just dawned on me, the reality is that Lisa's in on it as well. Here's to a wild night in the jungle. I can't wait to be with the team. It's kind of like being captured by the enemy', said Wippa in disbelief as he struggled to accept his fate. After topping many 'best dressed' lists earlier on in the night, Rachel McAdams continued her reign of exquisite fashion at the Academy Awards. The 37-year-old actress, who lost out on the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress to Alicia Vikander, looked captivating in a floor-length, baby pink Naeem Khan plunging gown at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party hosted by Graydon Carter on Sunday night. Stacked perfectly upon a pair of silver strappy Stuart Weitzman heels, her pins made a fabulous appearance due to the thigh-high split which accentuated her slim figure. Scroll down for video Pretty in pink: The 37-year-old actress looked captivating in a floor-length Naeem Khan baby pink glittery plunging gown at the Vanity Fair Oscar Party hosted by Graydon Carter on Sunday By pulling her blonde tresses back, emphasis was placed on her youthful flushed make-up look. The former Mean Girls star kept her face radiant and fresh with babydoll pink lips and a wide-eyed dose of mascara and liner. She completed her look with a silver bracelet and rings which complemented the light colour scheme. See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with all the latest news and red carpet pictures Always a winner: The blonde actress looked unfazed by her loss in the Best Supporting Actress category to Alicia Vikander as she posed up a storm at the Vanity Fair after party Catching the light: The Canadian born actress looked radiant in her pink ensemble which complemented her makeup look Fashionista status: The star made a quick change in to a gorgeous baby pink Naeem Khan dress after impressing in an emerald green number at the Oscars main event The actress didn't look too fussed about losing out on the Oscar statue for her work in Spotlight, as she posed serenely upon arrival. The rumoured girlfriend of Taylor Kitsch portrayed a reporter Sacha Pfeiffer in the film about The Boston Globe's Spotlight team and its investigation in child sex abuse in the Boston area by Roman Catholic priests. Rachel was nominated along with Jennifer Jason Leigh, Rooney Mara, Kate Winslet and eventual category winner, Alicia for her role in The Danish Girl. In the Spotlight: Whilst she didn't win Best Supporting Actress, the former Mean Girls star relaxed at the Vanity Fair party knowing Spotlight had been awarded Best Picture at the Oscars on Sunday night Emerald gown: Rachel McAdams wore a revealing emerald gown on Sunday to the Academy Awards in LA Backless look: Rachel showed her toned physique in the backless dress The eloquent actress changed outfit like a chameleon after sporting a revealing emerald gown on Sunday at the Oscars main event. Rachel had her toned physique on display in the sleeveless and backless outfit that included a thigh-high split. The Canadian beauty also showed a hint of side boob in the August Getty Atelier dress that also included a high neckline and long train. Long train: The actress wore an August Getty Atelier that featured a long train Oscar nominee: The actress was up for an Oscar for her work in Spotlight The Oscar nominee had her blonde hair slicked back and accessorised with sparkling dangling earrings, a bracelet and rings. Rachel kept the make-up to a minimum but accentuated her hazel eyes with a smoky look and polished off her ensemble with a a pair of open-toed silver strap heels. Fan favourite: The Canadian actress rose to fame starring in Mean Girls and The Notebook On the stage: Michael B. Jordan and Rachel presented the award for Best Cinematography Here you go: Rachel presented the Best Cinematography Award to Emmanuel Lubezki for The Revenant So proud: Rachel posed beside cinematographer Emmanuel Lubezki and his new trophy Step up: Rachel accompanied Emmanuel Lubezki to the press room Slim: The Canadian-born actress took another moment to show off her bare and slender waist Train trip: It took some coordinated skill to get around backstage with that long train Rachel also took to the stage to present the award for Best Cinematography that went to Emmanuel Lubezki for his labor on The Revenant. The blonde beauty is in no rush to slow down her excellent contribution to cinema. The actress can next be seen in the Marvel Studios superhero film Doctor Strange scheduled for release on November 4. Clear the way: Rachel and that trailing gown vied for space Hugs all around: Rachel was the recipient of a warm hug from Naomi Watts as her partner Liev Schreiber looked on Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas split in 2014 after 18 years of marriage. So the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party could potentially have been an awkward situation as the actor, 55, accompanied his new girlfriend Nicole Kimpel into the soiree, also attended by his ex-wife. The 58-year-old actress trod the red carpet solo as she narrowly avoided her former spouse who cosied up to his girlfriend, 35, on their way into the bash. Scroll down for video Run in? Former couple Melanie Griffith and Antonio Banderas both attended the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party as the actor, 55, accompanied his new girlfriend Nicole Kimpel into the soiree Melanie went for out-and-out gothic glamour in a sweeping black gown which featured a chiffon skirt and a sexy slit. She exposed a glimpse of tights-wearing thigh from beneath the gown - adding a sexy touch to an otherwise covered up look. Adding a luxurious touch to the look was her fur bolero which tied at the neck while offering a slight look at her lace-clad cleavage. The Working Girl star piled her blonde locks on top of her head in an elegant chignon as she was briefly joined on the red carpet by jewellery designer Loree Rodkin. See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with more of the latest news and red carpet pictures Going to say hi? The 58-year-old actress trod the red carpet solo as she narrowly avoided her former spouse who cosied up to his girlfriend, 35, on their way into the bash Slick: Antonio looked super suave in a simple black tuxedo, while his hair was drenched with product as he gazed adoringly at his girlfriend on the red carpet Antonio looked super suave in a simple black tuxedo, while his hair was drenched with product as he gazed adoringly at his girlfriend on the red carpet. His stunning partner looked striking in an entirely sheer gown in a nude hue with ornate detailing and a swishing dramatic hem. She flashed a modesty-protecting body beneath the ensemble - acting to hide the most-part of her figure beneath. An ally: The Working Girl star piled her blonde locks on top of her head in an elegant chignon as she was briefly joined on the red carpet by jewellery designer Loree Rodkin Good looking pair: His stunning partner looked striking in an entirely sheer gown in a nude hue with ornate detailing and a swishing dramatic hem Antonio and Melanie parted ways in June 2014 after many years as one of Hollywood's hottest couples. In a joint statement, they said: 'We have thoughtfully and consensually decided to finalize our almost 20-year marriage in a loving and friendly manner, honoring and respecting each other, our family and friends, and the beautiful time we have spent together.' Last year, the couple sold their Hancock Park mansion for a record $15.9 million. Melanie and Antonio were among the most watched couples after falling in love on the set of Too Much. Lost love: Antonio and Melanie parted ways in June 2014 after many years as one of Hollywood's hottest couples Happier times: Melanie showed how deep her love was by getting his name tattooed in a heart on her upper right arm, which now appears to have faded to an almost indecipherable scroll (pictured in 2005) The couple fell in love while shooting the 1995 romantic comedy, and the next year their daughter Stella was born. Melanie showed how deep her love was by getting his name tattooed in a heart on her upper right arm, which now appears to have faded to an almost indecipherable scroll. After their split last summer, Antonio was reportedly seen in the company of several beauties in St. Tropez, according to Us Weekly. The actor went public with girlfriend, Nicole, in September 2014, and they have put on many displays of public affection since. She ended up on the worst dressed list after donning a garish purple gown to attend the Academy Awards on Sunday. But Heidi Klum looked fantastic when she swapped her frumpy floral frock for a slick and sophisticated number to attend the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party, held at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills. The 42-year-old supermodel looked effortless chic in her patterned blue and black strapless number as she arrived on the arm of her boyfriend Vito Schnabel, 29. Scroll down for video That's better! Heidi Klum and her boyfriend Vito Schnabel were the picture of glamour as they arrived at the Vanity Fair Oscars after-party, held at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills on Sunday evening Making a statement: Heidi earlier donned a billowy chiffon gown that overwhelmed the red carpet at Sunday's The Oscars ceremony at The Dolby Theater in Hollywood Heidi made the most of her slender, sculpted figure in the daring dress, which boasted abstract geometric patterns on the bodice. The gown flowed into a lace skirt with sparkling embellishment and a long train sweeping the red carpet as she walked. Heidi set off her glamorous ensemble with a simple clutch and wore her blonde locks down loose. Chic: Heidi looked fantastic in a smart gown with blue and beige geometric embellishment on the bodice Happy couple: Heidi, 42, and Vito, 29, proved they were still going strong as they arrived arm-in-arm Glitzy: The German supermodel's dress flowed into a long black lace skirt with a glittery sheen Keeping it classic: Heidi wore her blonde locks down loose and opted for her fail safe beauty look - a smoky eye and a nude lip Cuddling up: Vito and Heidi weren't shy about showing their affection for one another Earlier in the evening, Heidi turned heads for the wrong reasons at the main ceremony. The Project Runway star certainly caught the eye in a Marchesa creation as she walked the red carpet at the celebrity-packed Oscars ceremony at The Dolby Theater in Hollywood, California on Sunday. Heidi was confident and that was a positive considering her gown that featured layers of chiffon material blending undertones of deep purple, lavender and lilac and puffs of floral decorations at wrist, waist and shoulder. Yards and yards: The sheer chiffon Marchesa gown featured deep purple undertones and streams of lavender and lilac Speaking volumes: Heidi's figure was camouflaged by the voluminous folds of her dress but managed to show some skin too The German-born beauty - who merely walked the carpet at The Oscars but watched the show from Elton John's viewing party - managed to show some skin in her frothy one-sleeved number including an angled neckline that hinted of some underboob and one smooth shoulder and toned arm. Her other arm was barely visible in the bell-shaped sleeve that was cuffed at her wrist and adorned with a petal. The train skimmed the red carpet as Heidi strolled and bunched in a crunch as she stopped to pose for the cameras. Heidi ate up the attention but one couldn't help but think about that silly children's tune People Purple Eater as the blonde beauty continued on down the carpet. See Oscars 2016 style updates as Heidi Klum wears lilac dress on the red carpet Decolletage: The America's Got Talent star showed some cleavage thanks to an angled halter top The full effect: Heidi was poised like a princess as her long train trailed beside her Basking in the attention: Heidi seemed to enjoy being in the spotlight Tall order: The German-born beauty sashayed past the golden Oscar relic Heidi's blonde tresses were styled simply with a center part, and long layers trailed along her strong jawline while the rest disappeared into an updo at the back of her head. While some critics considered Heidi's gown as 'gaudy,' she seemed to love the fabric that embraced and hid her slender curves at the same time. Heidi couldn't resist sharing a snap of herself getting prepped for the show just hours before red carpet time. Double thumbs up: Heidi gestured to her fans in the calling out to her High ten five: The hand signs continued as Heidi beamed a mega watt smile I see you: Heidi put on her 'binoculars' to scan the crowd Lavender ladies: After her red carpet turn, Heidi left The Oscars to watch the show from Elton John's viewing party where she bumped into Kelly Osbourne Fashion winner: Heidi hugged Caitlyn Jenner who looked marvelous in red at Elton John's Oscar viewing bash Don't they look cosy: Heidi clasped hands with boyfriend Vito Schnabel at the party 'Getting ready for the Oscars thanks to my amazing team @marchesafashion @missnewbark @tombachik @lorraineschwartz @lindahaymakeup @wendyiles_hair,' Heidi wrote in the caption. Heidi's personal life seems to going along splendidly. The mother-of-four shared an Instagram video of her younger and shirtless boyfriend Vito Schnabel lip syncing Mariah Carey's song Emotions from bed on Saturday. '..... No comment,' Heidi wrote in the photo's caption, adding two playful emoticons. Diamonds are a girl's best friend: Heidi showed off major Oscars bling via Instagram Getting ready: The supermodel took time out to thank her stylists before heading to the show She's the Victoria's Secret model known for her very risque ensembles - and more-than-occasional wardrobe malfunctions. So onlookers were left puzzled when Nicole Trunfio played it safe at Sir Elton John's Oscars viewing party in West Hollywood on Sunday by debuting a remarkably conservative look. But just hours are covering up in a loose-fitting emerald frock, the 29-year-old had an apparent change of heart - and swapped her unflattering dress for a slinky, body-skimming number. Scroll down for video Before and after: Nicole Trunfio, 29, showed up at the Elton John AIDS Foundation's Oscar Viewing Party in West Hollywood on Sunday in a notably conservative ensemble (right) before apparently changing her mind, swapping outfits during the event and debuting her slinky new look on the same red carpet hours later (left) Earlier in the evening, Nicole was photographed on the red carpet at the star-studded AIDS Foundation fundraiser in a long-sleeved dress with a floaty hemline that just skimmed her ankles. The Perth-born beauty looked notably out-of-character in the deep green design by The Row, which was cinched in at the waist with the help of a belt. But despite making an effort to conceal her curves, it was quite obvious that the mother-of-one was not wearing a bra, as her nipples were visible under the fabric. See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with more of the latest from the Oscars after-party Style transformation: Later on in the evening, the mother-of-one swapped outfits and returned to the press wall to be photographed in her new slinky white gown which featured a mermaid skirt and long sleeves What a difference! Looking more confident and comfortable, Nicole showcased her svelte physique in the clinging dress with fringe detailing - a significant improvement from her previous look However, Nicole was absolutely stunning above the neckline, leaving her honey-highlighted locks loose in soft waves and opting for a simple bronzed look. Smokey eye shadow and a neutral lip made her features pop and she added plenty of sparkle with a glittering Bulgari necklace. But it seemed that at some point during the A-list party, Nicole changed her mind about her outfit. Conservative: The lingerie model previously wore frock with a floaty hemline that just skimmed her ankles Because hours later she was photographed on the same red carpet in a completely different outfit - including a change of shoes. Looking far more confident and comfortable, Nicole showcased her svelte physique in a clinging white dress with fringe detailing, which featured a mermaid skirt and long sleeves. The Vogue Australia covergirl completed her glamourous look with the same gold, snake-inspired neck piece she wore previously, and a set of black toe and fingernails. Under wraps: Nicole, from Merredin, WA, came over all conservative while arriving in a loose-fitting frock to Sir Elton John's Oscars party fundraiser on Sunday She also swapped her simple black high heels for a silver pair with thick, glittering ankle straps, completing the style transformation. Meanwhile, Nicola was in good company at the glitzy event alongside lingerie models Martha Hunt, 26, Jasmine Tookes, 25, and L'Oreal Paris ambassador Soo Joo Park, 27. She posted a selfie on Instagram from their table during the evening, which quickly amassed over a thousand likes. She was also joined at the bash by fellow Australian Jessica Gomes, 30, and Mariah Carey, 45, who is newly engaged to Sydney billionaire James Packer. Here come the girls: Nicole (left) posted this Instagram selfie from her table at the Oscars party, alongside models Soo Joo Park, 27 (second left), Jasmine Tookes, 25 (second right) and Martha Hunt, 26 (right) All that glitters: Nicole added plenty of sparkle to her oufits with a Bulgari gold, snake-inspired necklace Star-studded: She was joined at the bash by fellow Australian Jessica Gomes and Mariah Carey, who is newly engaged to billionaire James Packer Nicole has been making the most of the Oscars season and last week attended two pre-Academy Award parties. On Saturday, she mingled with fellow models Jasmine Tookes and Martha Hunt at a Weinstein Company hosted bash in Los Angeles and left little to the imagination in a very clingy black frock. Semi-sheer cut-outs across the body of the design highlighted her taut tummy and statuesque legs and she suffered a nip slip while going braless. She was even less covered up at a similar party the night before where she slipped into a black mini dress. Most exes can't stand each other, but that's not the case with Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck, even after she delivered THAT bombshell Vanity Fair interview where she blasted the actor for breaking her heart. To prove just how civil they are, both stars attended the same Vanity Fair Oscar party held at the Wallis Annenberg Center For The Performing Arts in Beverly Hills on Sunday night. But when the 43-year-old Batman v Superman star left the fete, he seemed to have a frosty exchange with the Miracles From Heaven actress. Also in the vicinity of the valet stand were Charlize Theron and Kate Hudson. Scroll down for video Chilly: Jennifer Garner and Ben Affleck seemed to be on frosty terms as they exited the Vanity Fair Oscar party on Sunday night; the bash was held at the Wallis Annenberg Center For The Performing Arts in Beverly Hills and hosted By Graydon Carter Side by side: Also with the Dallas Buyers Club star was her blonde friend who she often hits the gym with There's her ex: Affleck was seen exiting the same time as Charlize Theron, who he glanced at Though there didn't seem to be much bonding while waiting for their car, People reported the two got along just fine inside. 'Affleck and Garner shared a friendly hug and a kiss, and at one point Garner held his lapels as she appeared to compliment his look,' said a source. 'The two later parted ways, with Garner staying toward the back of the room with close friends Victor Garber and J.J. Abrams. 'Later, they had a nice moment where they caught up and a lot of their friends were there and they chatted and then they left.' Ben also spent time with longtime pal Matt Damon, the site added. She seemed to say hello: Kate Hudson was seen near the Oscar winner as she held a cup of coffee Can u spot Kate? Hudson is caught taking a look at Affleck as they all wait for their cars He's right behind her: In this snap, the Gigli star is seen a step away from the Almost Famous beauty Ben and Charlize are no strangers as they worked together 16 years ago. The two co-starred in the 2000 thriller Reindeer Games. The story is about a man just released from prison (Ben) who wants is to start a new life with the girl of his dreams (Charlize), whom he met through pen pal letters in prison. It is not known how well Ben and the blonde got along on the film, or if they even stayed in touch. It is most likely they are still friends. But they were not seen interacting at the party. Ben and Kate both starred in the 1999 ensemble comedy 200 Cigarettes. In one photo, it looks as if the daughter of Goldie Hawn is seen looking at the Argo star from afar. She glowed: The beauty was seen making her way down the stairs with her female friend A smoke break: Ben took a drag from a cigarette as he walked to the valet stand He almost looks like Bruce Wayne here: The best friend of Matt Damon looked tense at one point Ben and Jen were also seen together on Saturday as they first hosted a fourth birthday party for their son Samuel and then took him to dinner at Art's Table in Santa Monica, California. The Good Will Hunting star did not appear to be in the best mood during the meal. In the March issue of Vanity Fair, the 43-year-old actress revealed that Christine Ouzounian did not break up their 10 year marriage. 'We had been separated for months before I ever heard about the nanny,' said the Miracles From Heaven actress. 'She had nothing to do with our decision to divorce. She was not a part of the equation. Bad judgment? Yes.' When the nanny story broke in July, Ben has said the report was 'garbage.' A looker: Theron was ravishing in a plunging red dress with a long diamond necklace She has a history with Ben: Ben and Charlize are no strangers. The two co-starred in the 2000 thriller Reindeer Games She's single: The mother of two does not appear to be dating anyone after her split from Sean Penn With her gal pals: The South African native was chatting with her pretty pals at the valet, and there was no sign of Ben 'It's not great for your kids for [a nanny] to disappear from their lives,' she said. 'I have had to have conversations about the meaning of "scandal."' Jennifer and Ben, who have three children together (Violet, aged 10, Seraphina, aged seven, and Samuel, aged three), announced their split in June, just a month before talk of his involvement with the nanny, 28. As far as his claims that the affair never happened, Jennifer said: 'Hes still the only person who really knows the truth about things. And Im still the only person that knows some of his truths.' She spilled: In the March issue of Vanity Fair, the 43-year-old actress revealed that Christine Ouzounian did not break up their 10 year marriage Tough talk: 'We had been separated for months before I ever heard about the nanny,' said the Miracles From Heaven actress. 'She had nothing to do with our decision to divorce. She was not a part of the equation. Bad judgment? Yes' But who is she with? The West Virginia native was seen with a handsome man in a suit and red tie All by myself: At one point the Alias vet seemed to have no pals by her side as she walked down the stairs They were last seen together on vacation in Montana in mid February with his friend Tom Brady (who, oddly, has links to the nanny as well) and his wife Gisele Bundchen. And of their union, Garner said she was committed as much as she could be. 'It was a real marriage,' said Garner. 'It wasnt for the cameras. And it was a huge priority for me to stay in it. And that did not work.' But the Daredevil actress asked people to not be too hard on Ben. 'No one needs to hate him for me. I dont hate him. Certainly we dont have to beat the guy up,' she said. 'Dont worrymy eyes were wide open during the marriage. Im taking good care of myself.' That look says a lot, Benny: Garner was at the Oscars to present with Benicio Del Toro. The two seemed to get along well during rehearsals, where she gave him a kiss on the cheek, and back stage at the ceremony From the back: The two were side by side before the walked on stage With a pal: Garner posed with Melissa George attend the 2016 Vanity Fair Oscar Party Garner was at the Oscars to present with Benicio Del Toro. The two seemed to get along well during rehearsals, where she gave him a kiss on the cheek, and back stage at the ceremony. Charlize appears to be single after her 2015 shock split from Sean Penn. After her recent scantily clad display of fashion, Rita Ora reverted to a more shy version of herself. Touching down at Heathrow Airport in London on Sunday night, the 25-year-old looked content and ready to take on the bitter UK chill in a casual attire of sweater, fur scarf and black ripped jeans. Adding an A-list touch, the singer donned a pair of black sunglasses even though night had fallen. Scroll down for video Coming home: Rita Ora, 25, landed in London on Sunday night after a short weekend in Milan where she performed at Vogue Italy's Milan Fashion Week cocktail party She threw in a pop of colour with her red trainers, did her best to scurry to a car to head home for the night. The blonde beauty looked keen to get a nights rest following an attention-grabbing appearance at Vogue Italy's Milan Fashion Week cocktail party on Saturday night. The musician, who performed for the fashionable attendees at the event, turned heads in a semi-sheer foliage lace dress, which barely covered her modesty. See more of the latest Rita Ora updates as she covers up as she lands back in London Covered up: The singer wore a mostly-black ensemble of sweater, fur scarf and ripped jeans Kicking it: The Albanian beauty spruced up her dark outfit with bright red trainers which helped her dash off to find her ride She kept her platinum locks sleek and super simple whilst dramatising the eyes in the same silver-green colour scheme. Having only jetted in to Milan from Los Angeles the night before, the former flame of Rob Kardashian didn't let any signs of jet-lag bother her as she rubbed shoulders with editor-in-chief Franca Sozzani, who hosted the event alongside US editor-in-chief Anna Wintour. The party was thrown in honour of fashion photographer to the stars, Mario Testino. Sheer delight: The musician turned heads in a semi-sheer foliage lace dress, which barely protected her modesty Confident display: Rita adorned her hands with opulent silver and green jewellery which matched the tones in her see-through dress The talent show judge is vividly aware of Mario's work as she joined forces with him on a number of occasions, thus developing a professional relationship. Rita took to Twitter after the event to express her gratitude over being invited. 'Thank you for having me the gorgeous @francasozzani1 for @mariotestino and the whole team. It was a beautiful night performing for you all! Love you!' Other trend-setting attendees of the night included Leigh Lazark, Izabel Goulart and Jess Glynne. The Oscars are usually heavily scripted to avoid any awkward moments, so viewers couldn't help but wonder what was going on when Sarah Silverman and Patricia Arquette took the stage. Sarah, who famously brought weed to the ceremony in 2014, went on a tangent about James Bond while introducing Sam Smith's performance of Writing's On The wall, while Patricia appeared distracted when presenting the Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor. In her minute-long rant, Sarah, 45, joked that she had been romantically involved with the fictional spy, and went on to make a crude reference that he was neither 'a shower or a grower'. Scroll down for video What's going on?: Viewers were left confused by Sarah Silverman (L) and Patricia Arquette's bizarre on stage moments at the Oscars on Sunday She announced that she hadn't seen the latest James Bond film, Spectre, before shrugging: 'I guess I was a Bond girl, in that I had sexual intercourse with James Bond followed by never hearing from him again, ever. Like never, not even a text. 'And I know he has a cell phone he has four of them. It's fine whatever,' the I Smile Back actress added. Sarah continued: 'Maybe he likes sleeping with vulnerable women with heavy Jewish boobs and then never contacting them again. Maybe that's his thing.' 'Know what my thing is? Being in front of 80 million people on live TV and saying whatever comes into my mind.' See full coverage of the Oscars 2016 with more of the latest news and red carpet pictures 'Not a grower or a shower': Sarah divided fans with her bizarre ramblings about James Bond, apparently going completely off script Distracted: Meanwhile Patricia was distracted when presenting Best Supporting Actor to Mark Rylance And she wasn't kidding, as she then added: 'James Bond not a grower or a shower. I don't want to say he's terrible at sex... but he did sleep with 55 women in 24 movies and most of them tried to kill him afterwards.' She concluded by quipping: 'And in my opinion I don't think he's street enough,' which was a jab at British author Anthony Horowitz who had called rumoured Bond contender Idris Elba 'too street' to portray the character. It seems that Sarah had decided against following her scripted segment and instead delivered her own lines. The star was quickly trending on Twitter and clearly divided opinions, with some branding it 'bizarre' and stating that Sarah is 'not funny', and others proclaiming her 'hilarious'. 'Oh, sorry!': The Boyhood star was looking into the distance when the camera panned to her to announce the winner 'Her Benadryl has already kicked in': Jason Biggs' wife Jenny Mollen was one of the stars to point out Patricia's odd behaviour Not holding back: Jenny wasn't afraid of offending anyone with her tweets about the Oscars However the response was mostly negative, with Twitter user @Nigerianscamsss stating that she was 'as funny as getting robbed on payday.' Others were not happy that her crude jokes appeared so early on in the show, while many children were still watching. Twitter user @andygreenwald wrote: 'The fact that Sarah Silverman's d*** jokes preceded the minions by an hour suggests a deep misunderstanding of audience and/or bedtimes.' Meanwhile several viewers accused Patricia of being under the influence of something after she appeared confused during her time on stage. Taking the stage: The two women were both invited to the ceremony to present Nerves: The quirky comedian joked that she was worried about presenting - she introduced Sam Smith's performance - because of a talent scout in the audience The 47-year-old was looking off into the distance when the cameras panned to her to announce the Best Supporting Actor winner, and she then giggled and said: 'Oh, sorry!' Jason Biggs' wife Jenny Mollen tweeted: 'Patricia Arquette's Benadryl has already kicked in,' after the Boyhood star monotonously introduced the category. Others took it so far as to say she was acting like she had taken 'Quaaludes', while some simply said that she was 'putting them to sleep'. Twitter user @1jameshuang shared: 'Patricia Arquette, the audition for the Valium commercial isn't til Tuesday! #Oscars #Oscar2016.' What a pair! Sarah had showed off her silly side on the carpet as well, as she arrived with boyfriend Michael Sheen She's a cheeky one: The 45-year-old pretended to give her other half's bottom a squeeze Before the ceremony, Patricia was holding a Q&A with Equal Means Equal director Kamala Lopez about the film and the Equal Rights Amendment. The star had caused a stir when she took a moment during her acceptance speech for Best Supporting Actress for Boyhood in 2015 to address the cause of equal pay for women. 'To every woman who gave birth, to every taxpayer and citizen of this nation, we have fought for everybody elses equal rights,' she had said. 'Its our time to have wage equality once and for all and equal rights for women in the United States of America.' And ahead of Sunday's ceremony, during which she presented the award for Best Supporting Actor to Mark Rylance of Bridge of Spies, the actress promoted her cause once more. Fighting for her cause: Meanwhile, Patricia, who used her 2015 Oscars acceptance speech for Best Supporting Actress to call out wage inequality, held a Twitter Q&A with Equal Means Equal director Kamala Lopez She and Kamala answered questions on Twitter via 30 second videos explaining such topics as the importance of the Equal Rights Amendment, whether or not it would include women of color, and why her Oscars speech was important. One fan noted that it was 'ridiculous' to be discussing something such as equal pay when it comes to actors and actresses. However, Patricia was happy to address that issue, saying: 'We're not talking about equal pay for actors or actresses. We're talking about half of the population.' Here to help: The two answered questions about the documentary as well as the Equal Rights Amendment, which aims to fix how women are treated in the United States today Giving a voice: Patricia stressed in one clip that though she is not worried about wage issues personally, she is speaking up for the '33 million women and kids that are living in poverty with a full time working mom,' since 'no one is listening to them' 'Now I happen to have a camera pointed at me, and I happen to have a microphone in front of me, so I'm gonna talk about it, because the 33 million women and kids that are living in poverty with a full time working mom - no one is listening to them.' 'So I'm gonna use this opportunity to speak about what's happening to women all around me,' the impassioned star continued, as Kamala added: 'Equal means equal.' Later, as she arrived with her date Eric White at The Oscars, she tweeted another video, urging fans to go to Change.org/ERA to sign the petition for the Equal Rights Amendment. Make a change: After arriving at The Oscars with date Eric White, Patricia shared another video, asking followers to go to Change.org/ERA to sign a petition for the Equal Rights Amendment Acapulco champs Thiem, Stephens breaking new ground Austrian Dominic Thiem and American Sloane Stephens showed major strides forward by taking their second titles of the year at the ATP and WTA Acapulco Open finals. Thiem went 13-1 in the month of February with a trophy in Buenos Aires, a semi-final run at Rio de Janeiro and a 7-6 (8/6), 4-6, 6-3 triumph over Australia's Bernard Tomic in the Mexico final. "It was unbelievable," Thiem said. "These three weeks have been amazing. Winning my first 500 title and first hard-court title, it was just perfect. It was how a final should be, between two young and up-and-coming players. I hope we're going to play many more finals together. Both of us wanted to win so badly." Austrian Dominic Thiem returns the ball to Australia's Bernard Tomic during their Mexico ATP 500 Open men's single final tennis math on February 27, 2016 The 22-year-old, who rises Monday to a career-high 14th in the world rankings, is the first Austrian winner at the event since Thomas Muster in 1996. It was a matchup between two of the nine ATP Tour players born in the 1990s to have won titles. Thiem has been in both other such ATP finals, against David Goffin last year at Gstaad and in 2014 at Kitzbuhel. Thiem has 18 match wins in 2016 to lead the ATP Tour. Tomic was denied in his quest for a fourth ATP title in his fifth tour final. "It could have been huge if I won, but I had my chances," Tomic said. "That's the biggest disappointment, having the chance to win. I'm frustrated with myself. "But he was playing very well and he's an amazing competitor. Every point he was competing. He was feeling good on court and has been playing well all week. In the final of big tournaments, you have to take your chances in the big moments. I didn't take it." On the women's side, second seed Stephens outlasted 2014 Acapulco winner Dominika Cibulkova of Slovakia 6-4, 4-6, 7-6 (7/5). "I got a little bit better today because of her and I wouldn't want to have this memory with anyone else," Stephens said after the longest WTA final of the year. "We had a great week and a great start to the year and I'm looking forward to keeping it going." Stephens began the year with a title at Auckland, beating former world number one Caroline Wozniacki on the way to the trophy, after taking her first title last year at Washington. Austrian Dominic Thiem holding the winning trophy after defeating Australia's Bernard Tomic during their Mexico ATP 500 Open men's single tennis final on February 27, 2016 Republicans brawl, Clinton sails toward Super Tuesday Donald Trump and his rivals brawled on for the Republican presidential nomination Sunday as Hillary Clinton sailed toward "Super Tuesday," her White House hopes lofted by a blow-out win in South Carolina. With just two days to go before the biggest showdown yet in the US presidential race, Clinton gained crucial momentum in the race for the Democratic nomination after crushing Bernie Sanders 74.5 to 28 percent. "We got decimated," Sanders conceded in an interview on ABC's This Week show, acknowledging that the outpouring of African American support for Clinton exposed a costly weakness in his campaign. US Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton addresses a primary night rally in Columbia, South Carolina, on February 27, 2016 Nicholas Kamm (AFP/File) On the Republican side, Trump's trailing rivals desperately tried to raise doubts among voters about the frontrunner's ability to beat Clinton in November. Senator Ted Cruz suggested in an interview with ABC's "This Week" show that Mafia dealings could be hiding in Trump's tax returns, which the billionaire real estate developer has so far resisted releasing. "There have been multiple media reports of Donald's dealings with the mob, the Mafia," Cruz said. "Maybe his tax returns will show that those business dealings are a lot more extensive than has been reported." "We don't know," he added. "But the important point is ... in the general election, Hillary Clinton is going to shine a light on all of this. And Republican primary voters deserve to know." - Trump's tax returns - Trump has said he will not release his tax returns because they are being audited by the Internal Revenue Service. "You can't tell anything from tax returns because you take deductions, massive deductions and lots of other things," he said on CNN's State of the Union Show. Cruz also chided Trump for failing to categorically reject endorsements from white supremacist David Duke. "Really sad.@realDonaldTrump you're better than this," Cruz tweeted. Asked about the endorsement on CNN, Trump said he knew nothing about it. "You wouldn't want me to condemn a group that I know nothing about. I'd have to look," he said. At a news conference Friday, Trump appeared surprised by the endorsement. "David Duke endorsed me? I disavow," he said, without elaborating. Polls show Trump, who picked up a key endorsement from New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, leading the Republican pack in most of the 11 Super Tuesday contests, but trailing Cruz in his home state of Texas, a top Super Tuesday prize with 155 delegates. The conventional wisdom is that Trump's rivals -- Cruz, Senator Marco Rubio of Florida and Ohio Governor John Kasich -- must at least win their own states to remain in the running. Cruz will be the first to face that test, as Florida and Ohio vote later. "There is no doubt that if Donald steamrolls through Super Tuesday, wins everywhere with big margins, that he may well be unstoppable," Cruz said on CBS's Face the Nation. Kasich predicted that Trump would probably win all the Super Tuesday contests, but the governor said he intended to hang on in hopes Cruz and Rubio are knocked out first. Retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson also has vowed to remain in the race, but support for his candidacy has fizzled. With the stakes nearing a make-or-break point, Trump, Cruz and Rubio have viciously attacked each other with taunts, accusations and angry tweets that have given the Republican race a distinctly Darwinian flavor. "Frankly, we're going to look back on this time and we're all going to shake our heads and say, did we really degrade the process of picking the leader of the free world?" said Kasich, who has generally refrained from joining the free-for-all. - Redemption - While the Republicans were hitting all the political talk shows Sunday, Hillary Clinton was quietly savoring her victory in South Carolina. It was the former secretary of state's first decisive win of the campaign, after a nail-biter victory in Iowa, a thumping loss to Sanders in New Hampshire and then a five-point win in Nevada. Exit polls in South Carolina showed African-Americans -- who represented 61 percent of all Democratic voters in the primary -- backed Clinton by a stunning 86 percent, more than had supported Obama eight years prior. Clinton, who now leads in the national delegate count, assiduously courted black voters, partly by praising Obama and promising to build on his legacy. South Carolina marked a "great test" for the coming votes in other southern states and showed that Clinton "can get a broad base of support of all demographics," her communications director Jennifer Palmieri told reporters, as the candidate shook hands and posed for selfies with supporters in Columbus, South Carolina Saturday night. "We are going to compete for every vote in every state. We are not taking anything, and we are not taking anyone, for granted," Clinton said. She also looked beyond her battle with Sanders, tweaking Trump, whose campaign slogan is "Make America Great Again." "Despite what you hear, we don't need to make America great again. America has never stopped being great," she said, reading off a teleprompter. The 11 states that hold Democratic nominating contests Tuesday will send a whopping 18 percent of the delegates to July's nominating convention in Philadelphia. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump signs autographs for supporters at the conclusion of a Donald Trump rally on February 27, 2016 in Millington, Tennessee Michael B. Thomas (AFP/File) Republican presidential candidate Ted Cruz speaks to reporters before a rally on February 27, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia Scott Olson (Getty/AFP/File) Map of Democratic and Republican primaries on 'Super Tuesday', March 1 2016, as well as the latest number of delegates already obtained by candidates Colin Henry, Kun Tian, Alain Bommenel (AFP) US Republican presidential candidates Marco Rubio and Donald Trump are seen on television in the CNN filing room during the Republican Presidential Debate in Houston, Texas on February 25, 2016 Thomas B. Shea (AFP/File) Palestinians reject direct Iran aid to 'intifada' families The Palestinian Authority on Sunday said Iran's direct financial assistance to the families of Palestinians killed in a five-month wave of violence would be unacceptable. Tehran announced last week assistance would be offered to families of Palestinians killed in the wave of violence that erupted in October, but the PA says such aid must follow official channels. Palestinian presidency spokesman Nabil Abu Rudeina, cited by local media, said bypassing the authority in handing out such funds would constitute illegal interference in internal Palestinian affairs. Palestinian protesters hurl stones towards Israeli security forces during clashes following a demonstration against the expropriation of Palestinian land by Israel in the village of Kfar Qaddum, in the occupied West Bank, on February 26, 2016 Jaafar Ashtiyeh (AFP/File) Iran should "send this money through official channels to the (PA's) Martyrs and Prisoners Foundation rather than relying on informal and circuitous routes," Abu Rudeina said. Iran's ambassador to Lebanon, Mohammad Fathali, said Wednesday that Tehran would offer $7,000 to the families of each Palestinian killed in what he called the "Jerusalem intifada". Iran will also give $30,000 to Palestinian families whose homes have been destroyed by Israel because a member is accused of carrying out an anti-Israeli attack, he told a news conference in Beirut. The money pledged is in addition to the monthly aid paid since 1987 by an Iranian institution to families of Palestinians killed, he said. The wave of violence in Israel and the Palestinian territories since October has killed 177 Palestinians as well as 28 Israelis, an American, a Sudanese and an Eritrean, according to an AFP toll. Most of the Palestinians who died in the violence were killed by Israeli forces while carrying out knife, gun and car-ramming attacks, according to Israeli authorities. Others were shot dead by Israeli forces during clashes and demonstrations. Iran has been accused of providing support to Hamas, which runs the Gaza Strip and is a rival to Palestinian president Mahmud Abbas's Fatah party. Fatah dominates the Palestinian Authority. Palestinian economists have questioned whether Iran would be capable of distributing the aid to the families directly via banks since it could be considered "terrorism financing". Critics lash out at Trump over white supremacist backing Conservatives and liberals alike rounded on Republican Donald Trump for refusing to reject on Sunday an endorsement by David Duke, a white nationalist who once led the Ku Klux Klan. Among Democrats, Hillary Clinton sailed toward the "Super Tuesday" primaries bolstered by a blowout win in South Carolina on Saturday. With just two days to go before the biggest showdown yet in the US presidential race, Clinton gained crucial momentum in the race for the Democratic nomination by crushing rival Bernie Sanders 73.5 to 26 percent. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally in North Charleston, South Carolina, February 19, 2016 Jim Watson (AFP/File) "We got decimated," Sanders conceded in an interview on ABC's "This Week" show, acknowledging that the outpouring of African American support for Clinton exposed a weakness in his campaign. On the Republican side, Trump's trailing rivals desperately tried to raise doubts among voters about the frontrunner's ability to beat Clinton in the November 8 presidential election. Senator Ted Cruz suggested in an interview with ABC's "This Week" show that Mafia dealings could be hiding in Trump's tax returns, which the billionaire real estate developer has so far resisted releasing. - 'Unelectable' - Trump said he knew nothing about KKK leader Duke when asked about the matter on CNN's "State of the Union" talk show. "I don't know what group you're talking about. You wouldn't want me to condemn a group that I know nothing about. I'd have to look," Trump said. On Friday, he had appeared surprised when asked about the issue at a press conference, and quickly said: "I disavow." His comments Sunday on CNN however drew prompt criticism from across the political spectrum. "We cannot be a party that nominates someone that refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," Senator Marco Rubio told a crowd of supporters in Virginia. "Not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable." Another rival, Ohio Governor John Kasich, tweeted: "Hate groups have no place in America. We are stronger together. End of story." Cruz deplored the "really sad" comments. "@realDonaldTrump you're better than this. We should all agree, racism is wrong, KKK is abhorrent," he wrote. Conservative media baron Rupert Murdoch urged Republicans to "cool it and close ranks to fight real enemy." Sanders, a self-declared democratic socialist, wrote: "America's first black president cannot and will not be succeeded by a hatemonger who refuses to condemn the KKK." In a rare sign of agreement between the rivals, Clinton retweeted Sanders's comment. Last year, a technology blog unearthed a 1927 news report stating that Fred Trump -- Donald Trump's father -- was one of seven men arrested during clashes between 1,000 KKK members and 100 police officers in Queens, New York. Trump has denied that "ridiculous" report, telling the Daily Mail, a British newspaper: "He was never arrested. He has nothing to do with this. This never happened. This is nonsense and it never happened." - Trump's tax returns - Trump has said he will not release his tax returns because they are being audited by the Internal Revenue Service. "You can't tell anything from tax returns because you take deductions, massive deductions and lots of other things," he said on CNN. Polls show Trump, who on Friday was endorsed by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, leading the Republican pack in most of the 11 Super Tuesday contests. Trump however trails Cruz in the senator's home state of Texas, a top Super Tuesday prize with 155 delegates. The conventional wisdom is that Trump's rivals -- Cruz, Kasich and Florida Senator Marco Rubio -- must at least win their own states to remain in the running. Cruz will be the first to face that test, as Florida and Ohio vote later. "There is no doubt that if Donald steamrolls through Super Tuesday, wins everywhere with big margins, that he may well be unstoppable," Cruz acknowledged on CBS's "Face the Nation." Kasich predicted that Trump would probably win all the Super Tuesday contests, but the governor said he intended to hang on in hopes Cruz and Rubio are knocked out first. Retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson also has vowed to remain in the race, but support for his candidacy has fizzled. With the stakes nearing a make-or-break point, Trump, Cruz and Rubio have viciously attacked each other with taunts, accusations and angry tweets that have given the Republican race a distinctly Darwinian flavor. - Redemption - While the Republicans were hitting all the political talk shows Sunday, Hillary Clinton was quietly savoring her victory in South Carolina. It was the former secretary of state's first decisive win of the campaign, after a nail-biter victory in Iowa, a thumping loss to Sanders in New Hampshire and a five-point win in Nevada. Exit polls in South Carolina showed African-Americans -- who represented 61 percent of all Democratic voters in that state's primary -- backed Clinton by 86 percent, more than had supported Obama eight years prior. Clinton, who leads in the national delegate count, assiduously courted black voters, partly by praising Obama and promising to build on his legacy. The 11 states holding Democratic nominating contests Tuesday will send 18 percent of the delegates to July's nominating convention in Philadelphia. Map of Democratic and Republican primaries on 'Super Tuesday', March 1 2016, as well as the latest number of delegates already obtained by candidates Colin Henry, Kun Tian, Alain Bommenel (AFP) Republican presidential candidate Ted Cruz speaks to reporters before a rally on February 27, 2016 in Atlanta, Georgia Scott Olson (Getty/AFP/File) Republican presidential hopeful Marco Rubio speaks during a campaign rally at Patrick Henry College, in Purcellville, Virginia on February 28, 2016 Paul J. Richards (AFP) US Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton addresses a primary night rally in Columbia, South Carolina, on February 27, 2016 Nicholas Kamm (AFP/File) Detained US student says stole N. Korean 'political slogan' An American student arrested in North Korea has admitted to stealing propaganda material at the behest of a US Methodist church and with the encouragement of a secret university society, state media reported on Monday. The North's official KCNA news agency said Otto Frederick Warmbier, who was arrested in early January as he was leaving the country, had given an "interview" Monday with domestic and foreign journalists in Pyongyang. In an opening statement quoted by KCNA, the 21-year-old student from the University of Virginia said he had removed a political slogan from the staff-only area of the Pyongyang hotel being used by his tour group. Political slogans, extolling the achievements of the country and its leaders and encouraging citizens to work harder and demonstrate their loyalty, are all-pervasive in North Korea Pedro Ugarte (AFP/File) In a video clip distributed by CNN, a sobbing Warmbier said he had made "the worst mistake of my life" and pleaded to be released. The clip showed Warmbier, his head bowed and wearing a suit and tie, being marched into a room by two North Korean guards. According to KCNA, Warmbier said he had been tasked with stealing the slogan by a member of the Friendship United Methodist Church back home who wanted it "as a trophy". - Payment offered - The member -- the mother of a friend of Warmbier's -- had promised him a used car worth $10,000 if he succeeded and a payment of $200,000 to his family if he was detained, the agency said. "Since my family is suffering from very severe financial difficulties, I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money," he was quoted as saying. "The aim of my task was to harm the motivation and work ethic of the Korean people. This was a very foolish aim," he added. Foreigners detained in North Korea are often required to make a public, largely-scripted acknowledgement of wrongdoing as a first step towards a possible release. Political slogans, extolling the achievements of the country and its leaders and encouraging citizens to work harder and demonstrate their loyalty, are all-pervasive in North Korea. They can be seen on the streets and in nearly every public building, as well as every work unit. According to KCNA, the slogan removed by Warmbier was aimed at inspiring "the Korean people's love for their system." In its original announcement of Warmbier's arrest, North Korea said he had engaged in a "hostile act" with the connivance of the US government. - Sensitive time - His detention came at a sensitive time, with the United States taking a leading role in efforts to secure tough international sanctions on North Korea over its latest nuclear test. According to KCNA, Warmbier said he had been encouraged in his mission by the secretive "Z Society" at the University of Virginia which had promised him membership if he succeeded. According to the university magazine, the society is known for its philanthropic efforts, hosts numerous honorary dinners and grants academic awards. "There is no doubt that the CIA knows the Z Society's encouragement of my crime," Warmbier was quoted as saying. Monday's KCNA despatch did not clarify the precise charges Warmbier was facing, and gave no indication if he would be put on trial. Warmbier had entered North Korea as part of a New Year tour organised by China-based Young Pioneer Tours. He was arrested when the group was set to return to Beijing on January 2. The United States has no diplomatic or consular relations with the North, and the Swedish embassy in Pyongyang provides limited consular services to US citizens detained there. Warmbier is one of three North Americans currently detained in North Korea, which last month sentenced a 60-year-old Canadian pastor to life imprisonment with hard labour on sedition charges. Foreigners detained in North Korea are often required to make a public, largely-scripted acknowledgement of wrongdoing as a first step towards a possible release Pedro Ugarte (AFP/File) Former TEPCO bosses indicted over Fukushima disaster Three former executives of the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant operator were indicted Monday over the 2011 atomic accident, in what will be the first criminal trial linked to the disaster. Ex-Tokyo Electric Power (TEPCO) chairman Tsunehisa Katsumata, and former vice presidents Sakae Muto and Ichiro Takekuro were formally charged with professional negligence resulting in deaths and injury for their role in the crisis. The trio were not taken into custody. The crippled fourth reactor building at Fukushima on March 22, 2011, after earthquake and tsunami Tepco via Jiji Press (Jiji Press/AFP/File) "I'm full of emotion," Ruiko Muto, head of a campaign group pushing for a trial, told a Tokyo press briefing. "This will be a great encouragement for hundreds of thousands of nuclear accident victims who are still suffering and facing hardship," she added. A judicial review panel composed of ordinary citizens ruled in July -- for the second time since the accident -- that the three men should be put on trial. The decision compelled prosecutors to press on with the criminal case under Japanese law. Prosecutors had twice refused to press charges against the men, citing insufficient evidence and little chance of conviction. It will be the first criminal trial over responsibility for the tsunami-sparked reactor meltdowns that forced thousands from their homes in the world's worst nuclear accident since Chernobyl in 1986. It is expected to take at least six months for the first trial to start, said Yuichi Kaido, a lawyer representing the campaigner group. The trio face jail time of up to five years in prison or a penalty of up to one million yen ($8,850) if convicted. Public broadcaster NHK said the former executives would plead not guilty, arguing it was impossible to predict the size of the massive tsunami that slammed into Japan's northeast coast. Although the March 11 earthquake and tsunami killed 18,500 people, the nuclear disaster it caused is not officially recorded as having directly killed anyone. The charges are linked to the deaths of more than 40 hospitalised patients who were hastily evacuated from the area and later died. Around a dozen others -- including TEPCO employees and members of Japan's Self Defense Forces -- were injured during the accident. - 'Major step forward' - Environmental group Greenpeace said the decision to press on with a criminal case was "a major step forward". "The court proceedings that will now follow should reveal the true extent of TEPCO's and the Japanese regulatory system's enormous failure to protect the people of Japan," said Hisayo Takada, deputy programme director at the organisation's Japan office. A report by the International Atomic Energy Agency last year said a misguided faith in the complete safety of atomic power was a key factor in the Fukushima accident. It pointed to weaknesses in disaster preparedness and in plant design, along with unclear responsibilities among regulators. A 2012 parliamentary report also said Fukushima was a man-made disaster caused by Japan's culture of "reflexive obedience", but no one has been punished criminally. An angry public pointed to cosy ties among the government, regulators and nuclear operators that allegedly insulated TEPCO's executives from being charged. Campaigners have called for about three dozen company officials to be held accountable for their failure properly to protect the site against the tsunami. The accident at Fukushima forced the shutdown of dozens of reactors across Japan, with a handful now having been restarted. Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and utility companies are still pushing to get reactors back in operation, nearly five years after the crisis. But anti-nuclear sentiment remains high in Japan and there is widespread opposition to restarts. Tokyo Electric Power Co. (TEPCO) chairman Tsunehisa Katsumata speaks during a press conferecne at the company's headquarters in Tokyo, in March 2011 Kazuhiro Nogi (AFP/File) Tokyo Electric Power Co. vice-president Sakae Muto bows as he apologizes, prior to a press conference in Tokyo, in 2011 Kazuhiro Nogi (AFP/File) DiCaprio finally wins Oscar, 'Spotlight' grabs best film Leonardo DiCaprio won his long-awaited first Oscar for revenge epic "The Revenant" but journalism drama "Spotlight" took best picture in a surprising end to Hollywood's glittering awards season. The night was overshadowed by a simmering race row, addressed head-on by black host Chris Rock, who delivered a series of caustic jokes targeting the Academy's overwhelmingly white male membership. As well as DiCaprio's best actor award, "The Revenant" on Sunday picked up the statuettes for best director for Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu -- his second in a row -- as well as for best cinematography. Actor Leonardo DiCaprio accepts the award for Best Actor in 'The Revenant' on stage at the 88th Oscars Mark Ralston (AFP) But "Spotlight," a searing study of The Boston Globe's investigation into child sex abuse in the Catholic Church, grabbed best picture honors in one of the shocks of the 88th Academy Awards. The film had only taken one other award -- best original screenplay -- and Hollywood's Dolby Theatre gasped as a stunned cast and crew headed onstage to accept the trophy. "This film gave a voice to survivors. And this Oscar amplifies that voice, which we hope will become a choir that will resonate all the way to the Vatican," co-producer Michael Sugar told the audience. "Pope Francis, it's time to protect the children and restore the faith." A defeat for "Creed" star and Tinseltown darling Sylvester Stallone was the other big surprise of the night, as he was snubbed for best supporting actor, with the trophy going against the odds to Britain's Mark Rylance for "Bridge of Spies." George Miller's stark action epic "Mad Max: Fury Road" was the big winner in the technical categories, taking home Oscars for best costumes, production design, make-up, film editing, sound editing and sound mixing. - Leo's night - DiCaprio's success for his grueling star turn as 19th century fur trapper Hugh Glass came 22 years after his first of four unsuccessful acting nominations. For the 41-year-old actor, the fifth time was a charm. He thanked a long list of figures who have helped him in his career, including filmmaker Martin Scorsese, before speaking on his passion -- climate change. "Climate change is real. It is happening right now. It is the most urgent threat facing our entire species and we need to work together and stop procrastinating," DiCaprio said to applause. First-time nominee Brie Larson picked up a widely predicted best actress statuette, having dominated the awards season with her performance as a kidnapped mother in "Room." But it was not all celebration, as a row over the lack of ethnic minority acting hopefuls overshadowed Hollywood's biggest night. "Well, I'm here at the Academy Awards -- otherwise known as the white People's Choice awards. You realize if they nominated hosts, I wouldn't even get this job," joked Rock, 51, who continued with a series of jibes at the Academy throughout the night. For the second year running, all 20 nominees in the main acting categories were white, and an angry social media backlash under the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite has grabbed the awards season headlines. Rock, who hosted despite calls for him to join a boycott, unleashed a fierce monologue -- one he apparently rewrote in the wake of the scandal to hold the Academy's 6,000-plus voting members, overwhelmingly white men, to account. Former radio DJ Inarritu, just the third filmmaker to win back-to-back Academy Awards for best director, picked up the theme as he hailed his latest Oscar as a tribute to diversity. "There is a line in the film that says, 'They don't listen to you when they see the color of your skin'," Inarritu said. "So what a great opportunity to our generation to really liberate ourselves from all prejudice and, you know, this way of thinking and make sure for once and forever that the color of skin becomes as irrelevant as the length of our hair." - Solidarity - The first acting award of the night went to Sweden's Alicia Vikander, who dazzled on the red carpet in a strapless pale yellow Louis Vuitton gown, for her supporting role in transgender love story "The Danish Girl." "This is insane," a visibly moved Vikander said, hailing her co-star Eddie Redmayne: "Thank you for being the best acting partner. I could have never done it without you. You raised my game." It was a huge night for "Spotlight" director Tom McCarthy, who also picked up the Oscar for best original screenplay. Adam McKay and Charles Randolph took the adapted screenplay Oscar for financial crisis satire "The Big Short" -- which had also been a best picture contender. Mexico's Emmanuel Lubezki made history with his third consecutive Oscar for cinematography, for his dramatic work on "The Revenant." One of the moments of the night came when Lady Gaga led the Oscars in a rally against campus sexual assault, bringing together survivors who joined arms in solidarity. The pop star, who recently has spoken out about being raped as a teenager, was introduced by Vice President Joe Biden, who personally took part in Hollywood's biggest night to lend his voice to the cause. Erik Davis, managing editor of film website Fandango described the evening as "one of the most consistently entertaining Oscar shows in memory." "Whether or not it was intentional, the show had a unifying theme, and every Chris Rock joke was a perfect riff on that theme," he said. Oscar winners The production team and cast of 'Spotlight' celebrate winning the award for Best Picture on stage at the 88th Oscars Mark Ralston (AFP) Brie Larson hugs actor Jacob Tremblay before accepting the award for Best Actress in 'Room' at the 88th Oscars Mark Ralston (AFP) Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu accepts his award for Best Director for 'The Revenant' on stage at the 88th Oscars Mark Ralston (AFP) Cambodians arrested for raping French tourists on Thai island Five Cambodian fishermen have been arrested for a brutal attack on a group of French tourists in which two women were raped at knifepoint on an isolated Thai beach, police said Monday. It is the latest high profile assault on foreign visitors in Thailand, a country that is hugely reliant on its lucrative tourist trade. Investigators said four French holidaymakers were attacked late Saturday on Koh Kut (also known as Koh Kood), an underdeveloped island close to Cambodia's western border with Thailand. Thailand is an enormously popular tourist destination with more than 28 million people visiting in 2015 Christophe Archambault (AFP/File) Police said the attackers allegedly swam from their fishing boat to assault the group. Two injured male victims escaped to raise the alarm. When locals and police reached the scene the five attackers ran off but were swiftly apprehended, police major general Nopparat Rinthaphol told AFP. "They (the attackers) all confessed and police have already brought them to do a re-enactment," he added, referring to a common police technique where the accused replay their crimes for investigators, usually in front of the media. Thailand's Channel 7 television broadcast images of angry locals trying to attack the men during the re-enactment on Monday. The alleged assailants have all been charged with rape and violent assault while the victims have been taken to hospital on the mainland. The French embassy said it had sent officials to be with them. Thailand remains an enormously popular tourist destination with more than 28 million people visiting last year, a record high. The December to February period, when the tropical climate is cooler, is peak tourist season. But a number of grisly and violent crimes against foreigners has sullied the country's reputation as a tourist haven. In September two Myanmar migrant workers were sentenced to death for the 2013 murder of two British backpackers, one of whom was raped, on the diving island of Koh Tao after a controversial investigation and trial. Thai authorities insist the two men are guilty. But the defence team believes the pair have been scapegoated by a local police force desperate to get results. Tourism remains one of the few bright spots in the Thai economy accounting for at least 10 percent of GDP. The junta-led country posted a lacklustre growth rate of just 2.8 percent last year, one of the lowest in the region with analysts saying much of that growth came from tourism. Given just how many people visit Thailand, the kingdom remains a relatively safe destination with violent attacks still rare. Instead it is the less headline-grabbing scourge of traffic accidents that claims far more tourist lives. In a 2015 study on global road safety the World Health Organization found Thailand had the world's second most dangerous roads with 36.2 fatalities per 100,000 people. Only Libya's road fatality rate was higher. China jails Christian pastor for 14 years: official A Chinese court has sentenced a Christian pastor to 14 years in jail for embezzlement and other charges, a court official confirmed on Monday, after the preacher opposed the forced removal of crosses from churches. A court in the eastern province of Zhejiang sentenced Bao Guohua for embezzlement, disturbing public order, illegal business operations and concealing information about business accounts, local media have reported. His wife Xing Wenxiang was jailed for 12 years, they said. The two were also fined and their assets seized for appropriating cash and a house which belonged to the church, reports added. China's officially atheist Communist authorities are wary of any organised movements outside their control, including religious ones Frederic J. Brown (AFP/File) An official at a court in Jinhua city, where the sentencing took place on Thursday, confirmed the sentences to AFP but declined further comment. The court jailed 10 other people in connection with the case, the Zhejiang Daily newspaper and local television said, but did not give the lengths of their sentences. Bao and Xing were detained in July last year after they spoke out against forced cross removals in Zhejiang. Earlier, the province announced rules requiring crosses for Catholic and Protestant churches to be attached to the front of the building, rather than on the roof, and be no more than a tenth of the building's height. China's officially atheist Communist authorities are wary of any organised movements outside their control, including religious ones, and analysts say controls over such groups have tightened under President Xi Jinping. In 2014, Wenzhou city in Zhejiang demolished the large Sanjiang Church, following government declarations it was an illegal structure. The state-linked China Christian Council estimates the country has around 20 million Christians -- excluding Catholics -- in official churches supervised by the authorities. But the true number of worshippers could be higher, at least 40 million to 60 million, according to some estimates, as some pray at "underground" or "house" churches which seek to exist outside government control. Thousands protest in Pakistan after governor's killer hanged Thousands protested in Pakistani cities Monday against the execution of a man hailed by hardline Islamists as a hero for killing a provincial governor who was seeking reform of the blasphemy law. Protests against the hanging of Mumtaz Qadri were held in Karachi, Lahore, Islamabad and several smaller cities, with demonstrators burning tyres and chanting slogans. But most rallies dispersed peacefully after security was stepped up at flashpoints across the country of some 200 million, including in Rawalpindi where hundreds of supporters gathered at Qadri's family home. Pakistani supporters of convicted murderer Mumtaz Qadri argue with soldiers as they demonstrate against his execution, during a protest rally in Peshawar, on February 29, 2016 A Majeed (AFP) Qadri, a police bodyguard to Salman Taseer, shot the liberal Punjab governor 28 times at an Islamabad market in 2011. He said he was angry at the politician's calls to reform the blasphemy law. Blasphemy is a hugely sensitive issue in the Islamic republic, and Qadri was hailed as a hero by many conservatives eager to drown out calls to soften the legislation. Critics say the law -- which carries the death penalty -- is largely misused, with hundreds languishing in jails under false charges. Analyst Hasan Askari said the next 24 hours would be "sensitive" for the government, adding that Islamabad had weighed the danger of mass violence against the need to "wash away the suspicion" of sympathy for militancy. The biggest protest was held in the port mega-city of Karachi Monday afternoon, with around 7,000 people taking to the streets. In the eastern city of Lahore, around another thousand people protested, while hundreds others demonstrated in Pakistan-held Kashmir, Peshawar, Multan, and other smaller cities. Up to 900 people demonstrated in the southwestern city of Quetta. Qadri was hanged in Rawalpindi's Adiala jail early Monday, senior local police official Sajjid Gondal told AFP. National media played down news of the execution and the protests on orders of the government, two senior anchors told AFP. Most channels led their bulletins with Pakistan's win for best short documentary at the Oscars. Mosques near Qadri's family home broadcast the news, with cries heard from inside the house as hundreds of mourners arrived. The funeral is expected to be held Tuesday. "I have no regrets," Qadri's brother Malik Abid told AFP, tears rolling down his cheeks, while women chanted nearby. He said the family had been called to the prison Sunday evening by officials who said Qadri was unwell. - 'Ready to sacrifice' - But when they arrived, Qadri greeted them with the news that authorities had deceived them and that his execution was imminent. "I am proud of the martyrdom of my son," Qadri's father Bashir Awan told AFP, adding he was ready to sacrifice all five of his other sons "for the honour of the Prophet". Taseer's son Shehryar said on Twitter the hanging was a victory for Pakistan, but not for his family. "The safe return of my brother is the only victory my family wants," he wrote, referring to his sibling Shahbaz Taseer, who was kidnapped later in 2011 -- reportedly by the Taliban. As well as calling for blasphemy law reform, Taseer had been vocal in his support of Asia Bibi, a Christian woman who has been on death row since 2010 after being found guilty of insulting the Prophet Mohammed. Qadri's lawyers drew on Islamic texts to argue that he was justified in killing Taseer, saying that by criticising the law the politician was himself guilty of blasphemy. That argument was rejected by the Supreme Court which in December upheld the death sentence, sparking rallies. Pakistan ended a six-year moratorium on the death penalty in December 2014. Last month authorities announced they had executed 332 people since then. Rights group Amnesty International condemned the execution. "The death penalty is always a human rights violation, regardless of the circumstances or nature of the crime," said the group's South Asia regional director, Champa Patel. Pakistani demonstrators march during a protest against the execution of convicted murderer Mumtaz Qadri in Karachi on February 29, 2016 Asif Hassan (AFP) Pakistani relatives react following the execution of convicted murderer Mumtaz Qadri in Rawalpindi on February 29, 2016 Farooq Naeem (AFP) Supporters of former police bodyguard Mumtaz Qadri torch a banner bearing an image of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif during a protest against the execution of Qadri, in Hyderabad, on February 29, 2016 Yousuf Nagorai (AFP) Pakistani supporters of convicted murderer Mumtaz Qadri carry sticks as they blockade a road in Islamabad, on February 29, 2016 Aamir Qureshi (AFP) SodaStream lays off last Palestinian workers after permit row Israeli drinks firm SodaStream laid off its last Palestinian workers Monday and lashed out at the government for refusing to grant them work permits after it relocated from the West Bank to southern Israel. The company, which manufactures a device for making fizzy drinks at home, announced in late 2014 it was closing the West Bank plant following a boycott campaign that included targeting Hollywood actress Scarlett Johansson after she advertised its product. The plant, located in a Jewish settlement, closed in October last year, with more than 500 Palestinians made redundant, and then relocated inside Israel. Workers prepare boxes to pack products at the Israeli SodaStream factory in Mishor Adumim industrial park on January 30, 2014 Menahem Kahana (AFP/File) At the time 74 experienced Palestinian workers moved with the company, which also hired hundreds of Israelis. But the Palestinian staff, many of whom had worked at the company for years, have been caught in a permit battle between the firm and Israeli authorities. On Monday, they boarded buses to leave the plant in the southern Israeli town of Levahim for the last time, many visibly emotional, as company officials expressed outrage. "The government of Israel somehow couldn't overcome their own bureaucracy or hard-headedness and figure out the tremendous challenge of enabling 74 good people... to continue to let them do what they have been doing," CEO Daniel Birnbaum told AFP. Speaking at the plant in the Negev desert, Birnbaum said he did not blame the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement for having to lay off the workers but the Israeli government. The movement known as BDS campaigns against Israel over its occupation of the West Bank and pressured SodaStream to move out of the Palestinian territory. The Israeli government refused to grant the 74 Palestinians work permits beyond the end of February, according to the company. The company, which had revenues of $112.9 million in the final quarter of 2015, initially threatened to halt production at its factory unless the "essential" workers were given permits. However, it later backed down and made them redundant. Birnbaum said he was "still hopeful" a solution could be found and said the company might move some operations back to the West Bank. "If the government of Israel does not allow the Palestinians to get their jobs, I will bring those jobs to the Palestinians. That is not a threat. It is a fact." - 'There is no hope' - COGAT, the defence ministry body responsible for coordinating Israeli government activity in the Palestinian territories, declined to comment on the redundancies but reiterated that it had helped facilitate the movement of the factory. "COGAT has taken many measures to help the factory and provided temporary permits to hundreds of labourers in the past year and a half to enable the transfer (of the factory)," a statement said. According to COGAT, 58,000 Palestinians hold permits to work in Israel, with another 27,000 working for Israeli businesses in West Bank settlements and industrial zones. SodaStream -- which employs around 1,200 people -- has called for that number to be increased but that would require a government decision. Israel occupied the West Bank in 1967 in a move never recognised by the international community. Rights groups say Palestinians often have few options beyond working in Israeli settlement businesses, with their own economy faltering largely due to Israeli restrictions in much of the West Bank. At a march to protest the government's decision on Monday, a few hundred SodaStream employees formed a peace sign at the company's Lehavim factory. Palestinian employees were then loaded onto buses for the last time to be taken into the West Bank. Anas Abdul Wadud Ghayth, 25, had worked for SodaStream for four years and was wiping tears from his bespectacled eyes. "We were one family. I am sad because I am leaving my friends who have worked here for a long time," he said. "There is no hope in Palestine. There is little work." Bassel Salhaya said he had no plan for future employment in the West Bank. Suicide bombing kills 4 in Yemen's Aden A suicide car bombing killed four people Monday when it hit a gathering of loyalist forces in Yemen's Aden, the southern city serving as a government base, a security official said. Five others were wounded in the attack in the Sheikh Othman district of the port city, the official said. The suicide bomber rammed his explosives-laden vehicle into an area where security forces and pro-government militiamen had assembled, the official said. Security forces loyal to Yemen's president man a checkpoint in the southern city of Aden on January 18, 2016 Saleh Al-Obeidi (AFP/File) President Abedrabbo Mansour Hadi has declared Aden as Yemen's temporary capital as Sanaa remains in the hands of the Iran-backed Huthi rebels and their allies since they seized it in September 2014. Al-Qaeda and the Islamic State group have stepped up attacks in Aden despite the efforts of the government and its backers in a Saudi-led coalition battling the Huthis and their allies to secure it. On February 17, a suicide bombing claimed by IS killed 14 soldiers. The attacker detonated his explosive vest among soldiers at a training session. The rebels controlled Aden for months before government loyalists pushed them out in July. Because of the unrest gripping Aden, Hadi himself and many senior government officials spend most of their time in Riyadh, which has led an anti-rebel coalition since March 26 last year. Meanwhile, two people were killed and two others wounded in an explosion in their family home in northwestern Aden, a local official said. An explosive device went off as the family returned to their house for the first time since they fled in August during fighting between rebels and loyalists, the official added. Suspected Ugandan rebels kill 13 in DR Congo Suspected Ugandan rebels killed 13 civilians in an overnight raid on a village in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo, the army said Monday. "We've just discovered a total of 13 bodies, cut to death, including four women," said Lieutenant Mak Hazukay, army spokesman in the region of Beni, in the north of the North Kivu province. The Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) "carried out their dirty work in three small isolated villages," he told AFP, reached by phone from Goma, the capital of the troubled province. A village in Kivu region, eastern Democratic Republic of Congo Kudra Maliro (AFP/File) Earlier the spokesman had said "terrorists" killed six people with machetes and three others were missing, while a local official had spoken of two people decapitated in the village of Ntombi, where the local health centre "was completely looted." Ntombi lies about 40 kilometres (25 miles) northeast of Beni in a part of North Kivu where the rebels from neighbouring Uganda are blamed for attacks and sometimes massacres. The ADF launched a rebellion against Uganda's President Yoweri Museveni more than 20 years ago, but were forced to pull back into the DRC. Active in the east since 1995, the movement is accused of serious and repeated human rights violations while financing its activities by trafficking in tropical timber. The United Nations, which maintains a peacekeeping mission of almost 20,000 troops and police in the vast central African country, accuses the ADF of killing more than 500 civilians in massacres and attacks in Beni territory and the Ituri region since October 2014. Since last September, ADF forces have been blamed for a series of attacks with automatic weapons on National Highway 4, between Beni and the frontier with Ituri province to the north. The rebels have targeted civilian vehicles and passersby as well as army outposts. Like the rest of eastern DRC, the Beni region has been torn by conflict for more than 20 years. Turkey 'shells Islamic State positions' in Syria Turkish armed forces shelled positions of the Islamic State (IS) group in Syria in coordination with the US-led international anti-jihadist coalition, local media reported on Monday. Turkish artillery fired 50 to 60 shells from howitzers positioned in its southern Kilis region against IS targets in the north of Syria's Aleppo province, the private Dogan news agency reported. A fragile ceasefire has taken effect in Syria, but jihadists are excluded from it. Turkish tanks fire at targets across the border in Syria, on February 16, 2015 Bulent Kilic (AFP/File) It was the first attack in several weeks since Turkey, a member of the international coalition against the IS group, stuck jihadist positions in Syria. Turkish artillery have fired on IS targets in Syria and in Iraq after a deadly suicide attack in Istanbul's tourist hub of Sultanahmet in January. The ceasefire deal in Syria, brokered by Russia and the United States, has been in place since Friday midnight. UN chief Ban Ki-moon said there been some incidents but the ceasefire was generally holding. The deal does not apply to territory held by the IS group and Al-Qaeda affiliate Al-Nusra Front. Turkish artillery has fired Kurdish militia forces this month, saying it was responding to incoming fire. Ankara said the Syria truce should have excluded the People's Protection Units (YPG) militia, which it considers to be a terror group linked to its own Kurdish militants. However the United States works closely with the YPG as the best fighting force on the ground in northern Syria the battle against IS. Citigroup sells China Guangfa stake for $3 bn US bank Citigroup announced Monday it would sell its 20 percent stake in China Guangfa Bank to China Life Insurance Company as it focuses on its own franchise in China. Citigroup sold the stake to China Life for $3 billion, said a person close to the matter, confirming a figure in The Wall Street Journal. A Citigroup statement did not disclose the terms of the transaction. The move marks a shift from Citigroup's strategy in 2006, when it successfully fended off a rival bid from France's Societe Generale and bought the China Guangfa stake for $620 million. Citigroup is to sell its 20% in China Guangfa Bank to China Life Insurance Don Emmert (AFP) Citigroup continues to view China as "one of our highest priority markets around the world," said Francisco Aristeguieta, chief executive of Citi Asia Pacific, in the statement. Citigroup locally incorporated in China in 2007 and now operates in 13 cities in the country. "This transaction is consistent with the simplification of Citi and allows us to focus our resources in China on growing our core franchise further," Aristeguieta said. "We employ more than 8,000 people in China and work closely with a targeted set of clients across both consumer and institutional banking." Citigroup has cut back significantly in some other international markets. On February 19, it announced plans to sell consumer businesses in Argentina, Brazil and Colombia, adding that it would focus on institutional and corporate clients in these markets. Israel PM to visit African nations for hostage rescue anniversary Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday he plans to visit African nations for the upcoming 40th anniversary of an Israeli operation that freed hostages aboard a plane in Uganda and which led to the death of his brother. "I've received an invitation from the president of Kenya and from others to come and visit Africa," Netanyahu told ambassadors from African nations, according to his office. "I intend to do so around the 40th anniversary of the raid at Entebbe that was for us a very dramatic national experience. For me, obviously, one of great personal consequence." Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Ronen Zvulun (Pool/AFP/File) Netanyahu's brother Yonatan was killed in a July 1976 commando raid in Entebbe, Uganda, to free passengers aboard an Air France plane hijacked by Palestinians. The plane en route from Tel Aviv to Paris was hijacked in Athens and ordered to fly to Entebbe with 250 passengers aboard, among them 85 Israeli nationals. By the time the commandoes arrived, all non-Israeli passengers had been released by the hijackers, leaving about 100 Israelis and crew members aboard. The hostages were freed in the raid but 20 Ugandan soldiers and seven hijackers were killed, along with several Ugandan citizens. The lone casualty among the Israeli assault team was Netanyahu's brother, who headed the operation. One of the hostages, a 75-year-old Israeli woman who had been transferred to a hospital, was subsequently killed on the orders of then-dictator Idi Amin. Netanyahu said Monday that beyond marking the anniversary of the operation, the visit would allow Israel to further improve ties with African nations, particularly on security issues. Bangladesh call up Tamim for injured Mustafizur Bangladesh on Monday called up opening batsman Tamim Iqbal for the remaining part of the Asia Cup as a replacement for pacer Mustafizur Rahman, who was ruled out with injury. Team physio Bayjedul Islam said Mustafizur complained of discomfort after Sunday's match against Sri Lanka and an MRI scan and a report from the radiologist confirmed a strain on a right rib. "He is under conservative treatment and rest for next 48 hours. Following that the rehab will begin," Islam said in statement. Bangladesh cricketer Tamim Iqbal, pictured on January 17, 2016, was allowed to skip the Asia Cup to be with his wife, who gave birth to a baby boy in Bangkok Munir uz Zaman (AFP/File) "We are expecting that he will make a quick recovery and resume bowling soon." Mustafizur played a key role in Bangladesh's 23-run win over Sri Lanka with four tight overs for just 19 runs. He also took the vital wicket of all-rounder Thisara Perera. Tamim, who is a regular member of the side, was allowed to skip the Asia Cup to be with his wife, who gave birth to a baby boy in Bangkok on Sunday. Tamim returned home on Monday and joined the training camp. US questions Mercedes-Benz on diesel car emissions US environmental regulators have asked Mercedes-Benz for emissions data after a private lawsuit accused the German carmaker of installing emissions-cheating technology on diesel models, a government spokeswoman said Monday. The request from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) follows up on a civil class-action lawsuit filed earlier this month that said 14 Mercedes diesel models contain technology that spew excess emissions of nitrogen oxide, while concealing the mechanism from regulators. The suit from plaintiffs firm Hagens Berman takes aim at Mercedes's BlueTEC diesel technology, which the luxury automaker has touted for its environmental benefits. US environmental regulators have asked Mercedes-Benz for emissions data after a private lawsuit accused the German carmaker of installing emissions-cheating technology on diesel models Jacques Demarthon (AFP/File) "We know about the lawsuit," said EPA spokeswoman Julia Valentine. "We have contacted Mercedes and requested the test results for the US diesel engines." A Mercedes spokeswoman said the carmaker, owned by Daimler, had received the EPA request and is preparing a response. "We consider this class-action suit to be unfounded," she said. "We will defend ourselves by all legal means." "We take the protection of the environment very seriously and appreciate the past trust and cooperation with US regulatory agencies." Three bodies found in 'mass grave' in Burundi capital Three bodies have been found in a "mass grave" in an anti-government stronghold in a northwest area of Burundi's capital Bujumbura, the city mayor's told AFP on Monday. A suspect has told investigators that "about 30" people had been buried there after being killed for supporting the government, he added. Mayor Freddy Mbonimpa, who blamed the massacre on anti-government activists, reported the finding the same day the UN said it was sending a team of human rights investigators to Burundi to look into allegations of rights violations during the country's 10-month long crisis. A picture taken in the Buringa area of Burundi on January 19, 2016 shows a site flagged by Amnesty International as an "area of interest" in its investigation into mass graves Mbonimpa, who was appointed by President Pierre Nkurunziza, said that "acting on information from the public we found today on Mutakura's 9th avenue a mass grave where we discovered three bodies in bags." Several journalists were on the scene when the bodies were found. Burundi has been in crisis since Nkurunziza's controversial decision last April to run for a third term, which he won in an election in July. Violence has become routine since, with more than 400 people killed and nearly quarter of a million leaving the country. Mbonimpa said that one of the alleged killers was arrested and "told us that there were about 30 bodies in the grave." "The murderer said they buried people there who had been killed for supporting a third term" for Nkurunziza or who had refused to join an insurgency against him. He slammed Amnesty International for accusing the government and security forces in January of burying opponents in mass graves. Amnesty International had issued satellite images to show that there were at least six mass graves in the Bujumbura area following a crackdown against opposition strongholds in the capital, ordered in reprisal for rebel attacks on military bases in December. UN chief plans later visit to Western Sahara UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon will travel to Western Sahara later this year where the United Nations is seeking to end a 40-year conflict with Morocco, his spokesman said Monday. Ban, who steps down at the end of the year, had hoped to travel to the main city of Laayoune in Western Sahara and visit Rabat during his north Africa tour later this week, but no date was agreed with Morocco. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said Ban's trip would now be conducted in two stages. The United Nations has been trying to broker a settlement for Western Sahara since 1991 after a ceasefire was reached to end a war that broke out when Morocco sent its forces to the former Spanish territory in 1975 Farouk Batiche (AFP/File) This week, he will meet refugees from Western Sahara at the Tindouf camp in western Algeria and hold talks with leaders of the Polisario Front, fighting for an independent homeland. "There will be a second part where the secretary general will later this year travel to Rabat and Laayoune," added Dujarric. The United Nations has been trying to broker a settlement for Western Sahara since 1991 after a ceasefire was reached to end a war that broke out when Morocco sent its forces to the former Spanish territory in 1975. Local Sahrawi people are campaigning for the right to self-determination, but Morocco considers the territory as a part of the kingdom and insists that its sovereignty cannot be challenged. Slain Virginia officer lauded for bravery, intelligence WOODBRIDGE, Va. (AP) On her first day on the job, Officer Ashley Guindon responded to a call that could have become routine: a domestic disturbance in a well-kept suburban neighborhood. But one woman had already been slain inside the northern Virginia home of a Pentagon worker, and Officer Guindon would be next. Army Sgt. Ronald Hamilton opened fire as she arrived at his door, killing her and wounding two other officers, police said Sunday. Prince William County Police Chief Stephan Hudson was stone-faced Sunday as he lauded Guindon's bravery, intelligence and compassion. The chief offered no details about what might have provoked the gunman, who worked at the Pentagon and, according to neighbors, was about to be transferred to Italy. A photo provided by the Prince William County Police Department shows, from the left, Officer Steven Kendall, and Officer Ashley Guindon with Lt. Col. Barry Bernard, deputy chief of the Prince William County, Va., Police Department. Officer Ashley Guindon was shot and killed Saturday, Feb. 28, 2016, and two of her colleagues were wounded in a confrontation stemming from a call about an argument. Guindon and Kendall were sworn in on Friday, and Guindon was working her first shift with the Prince William County Police Department when she was killed. (Prince William County Police Department via AP) Hamilton, 32, and his wife Crystal, 29, had been arguing all day Saturday, but it escalated after she called 911, the chief said. Hamilton fatally shot his wife and then fired at the arriving officers, killing Guindon and seriously wounding the others before emerging from his front door to surrender. Officers recovered a handgun and a rifle. The couple's 11-year-old son was home at the time of the slayings and is being cared for by relatives, Hudson said. Guindon, 28, was pronounced dead at the hospital where officers Jesse Hempen, 31, and David McKeown, 33, were being treated on Sunday. Police did not detail their injuries. Hudson said they face long recoveries. Commonwealth's Attorney Paul Ebert said he would likely seek the death penalty against Hamilton, who was held without bond on charges including capital murder, first-degree murder and malicious wounding pending a Monday morning arraignment. Guindon, a former Marine Corps reservist with a master's degree in forensic science, had been sworn in on Friday, which the department marked with a celebratory tweet. "We were struck by her passion to do this job," Hudson said. "She couldn't get it out of her blood. She clearly had a passion to serve others in a way that went beyond herself." Guindon's death was not the first tragedy to strike her family. Her father, David, killed himself the day after he returned home from Iraq, where he served with the New Hampshire Air National Guard. "He came home and took his own life," Dorothy Guindon, Ashley's grandmother, told The Associated Press. He was buried with full military honors on Aug. 26, 2004. Ashley was his only child. She was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, and the family later moved to Merrimack, New Hampshire, her grandmother said. "This is really a shock to us," Dorothy Guindon said. "Ashley was such a nice person." Mark Doyle, the police chief in Merrimack, told The AP that his officers escorted Guindon's mother and aunt to the airport to fly to Virginia. "You wonder what she could have been able to accomplish," Doyle said. "We'll never know." Her line-of-duty death was the fourth in the 46-year history of the department, and only the second time a county officer was slain maliciously, county officials said. The county has 446,000 residents, and Woodbridge is one of many bedroom communities popular with federal workers, the military and others who commute to Washington, 30 miles to the north. "This department is revered. It's respected," said Corey Stewart, the Republican chairman of the county's board of supervisors. "She was an example of the kind of person that the department hires and the quality of the men and women who work for the department." Hamilton's neighbors, too, were struggling to comprehend how a man who had ingratiated himself to the close-knit community could be accused of such crimes. The neighborhood of $500,000 houses with manicured lawns and two-car garages is about a 5-minute drive from the county office building. Charnita Allen, who lives down the street, said Hamilton's son was close with her own 10-year-old son and frequently played at their house. Speaking in a soft voice in her driveway Sunday morning, she said Hamilton was a "nice guy." "It's going to be tough getting over this one," she said. ___ Associated Press writers Matthew Barakat in Woodbridge, Virginia, and Lynne Tuohy in Concord, New Hampshire, contributed to this report. ___ Follow Ben Nuckols on Twitter at https://twitter.com/APBenNuckols . His work can be found at http://bigstory.ap.org/content/ben-nuckols. Police remain on the scene late Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, on Lashmere Court in Dale City, Va., where three Prince William County police officers were shot responding to a domestic violence call. Police said Officer Ashley Guindon died in the shooting. (AP Photo/Matthew Barakat) More than 100 patrol cars line the roads outside Inova Fairfax Hospital early Sunday morning, Feb. 29, 2016, to stand vigil and provide escort to the medical examiner for the body of slain Prince William County police officer Ashley Guindon, who was shot and killed Saturday responding to a domestic violence call. Two other officers were also shot and taken to the hospital. Guindon had been sworn in as an officer on Friday. (AP Photo/Matthew Barakat) Prince William County Police officer Mike Lomanaco walks by a home Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, following a fatal shooting at the residence Saturday evening in Woodbridge, Va. Ronald Williams Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) Police surround a home Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, following a fatal shooting at the residence Saturday evening, in Woodbridge, Va. Ronald Williams Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) This undated photo provided by the Prince William County Police shows Officer Ashley Guindon. Ronald Williams Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer, Guindon. (Prince William County Police via AP) This undated photo provided by the Prince William County Police shows Officer Jesse Hempen, who responded to a domestic violence call Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, in Woodbridge, Va. Hempen and another officer were injured and a third officer was killed while responding to the call. (Prince William County Police via AP) This undated photo provided by the Prince William County Police shows Officer David McKeown, who responded to a domestic violence call Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, in Woodbridge, Va. McKeown and another officer were injured and a third officer was killed while responding to the call. (Prince William County Police via AP) This February 2016 photo provided by the Prince William County Police shows Ronald Hamilton, who is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer. (Prince William County Police via AP) Prince William County Police Chief Stephan Hudson, left, accompanied by Prince William County Commonwealth Attorney Paul Ebert speaks during a news conference at the Western District Station, in Manassas, Va., Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016. Ronald Williams Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer Saturday evening. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) Prince William County Police Chief Stephan Hudson, left, speaks during a news conference next to a picture of Ashley Guindon at Western District Station, in Manassas, Va., Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, about a fatal shooting Saturday evening. Ronald Williams Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer, Guindon. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) Ohio pastor shot, killed on Sunday at his church DAYTON, Ohio (AP) An Ohio pastor with deep roots in the Dayton community was shot and killed in his church office as service was winding down Sunday, and police say they plan to charge his brother. The Rev. William B. Schooler, 70, was shot around 12:30 p.m. at St. Peter's Missionary Baptist Church, Dayton police said. His brother, Daniel Gregory Schooler, 68, was arrested at the church and taken to the Montgomery County jail. He faces a murder charge on Monday, said Sgt. Richard Blommel. The Rev. William B. Schooler is pictured in January 2011 photo in Dayton, Ohio. Schooler, 70, was fatallly shot Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, while in his office at St. Peter's Missionary Baptist Church in Dayton, Dayton police said. His brother, Daniel Gregory Schooler, 68, was arrested at the scene and taken to the Montgomery County jail. He faces a murder charge on Monday, said Sgt. Richard Blommel. ohdayap\ Police said they did not know Sunday what led to the shooting but said the pastor was the only intended victim. Joyce Napier, the niece of the brothers, told the Dayton Daily News that Daniel Schooler had a history of mental illness, which she believes played a role in the shooting. "I would think it has to be something's going on in his head to do something like that, because we were raised to love," she told the newspaper. "Family matters that's the way were raised." Besides being pastor at the church, William Schooler was a past interim president of the Dayton school board and current president of the local Baptist ministers union. He was a teacher in the Dayton school district in the 1970s and served as a principal in the Jefferson Township district for nearly two decades, according to the Daily News. He also held other positons with community organizations and local governments, including serving as a certified city of Dayton mediator. "He had deep roots in the community," a friend, Ronnie Moreland, told the newspaper. "He was a beloved leader. It's hard to put into words what has happened." Dayton City Commissioner Joey Williams told the Daily News he had discussed with Schooler ways to reduce violence in the community. "For him to be a victim of violence is just extremely saddening," Williams said. ___ This story has been corrected to show the pastor was shot while in his office, not in the pulpit. ___ Information from: Dayton Daily News, http://www.daytondailynews.com White supremacist leader at center of new Trump furor LEESBURG, Virginia (AP) Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump is drawing criticism for refusing to denounce an implicit endorsement from a white supremacist leader, with his main rivals, senators Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio, using the matter to hammer the billionaire businessman just two days before multiple state primaries could put him on an irreversible path to the party's nomination. Trump was asked Sunday on CNN's "State of the Union" whether he rejected support from David Duke, the former Ku Klux Klan Grand Dragon, and other white supremacists after Duke told his radio followers this week that a vote against Trump was equivalent to "treason to your heritage." "Well, just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke. OK?" Trump told host Jake Tapper. "I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists." FILE - In this Feb. 26, 2016, file photo, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump gestures during a speech at a rally in Oklahoma City. Democrats increasingly view Trump as the likely Republican nominee and are seeking consensus on the best way to challenge the billionaire's unpredictable appeal in a general election. (AP Photo/Sue Ogrocki, File) Trump was asked Friday by journalists how he felt about Duke's support. He said he didn't know anything about it and curtly said: "All right, I disavow, ok?" Trump hasn't always claimed ignorance on Duke's history. In 2000, he wrote a New York Times op-ed explaining why he abandoned the possibility of running for president on the Reform Party ticket. He wrote of an "underside" and "fringe element" of the party, concluding, "I leave the Reform Party to David Duke, Pat Buchanan and Lenora Fulani. That is not company I wish to keep." Trump's comments sparked a wave of censures just ahead of Super Tuesday March 1 when 11 states hold Republican primaries. At stake are 595 delegates to the party's national convention this summer, with 1,237 needed to win the nomination. On the Democratic side, 865 delegates are up for grabs in Super Tuesday contests in 11 states and American Samoa. It takes 2,383 delegates to gain the Democratic nomination. Hillary Clinton, who received another burst of momentum Saturday after her lopsided victory in South Carolina, turned her attention to the Republican field on Sunday, all-but-ignoring rival Bernie Sanders during campaign events in Tennessee. Starting her morning with stops at two Memphis churches, Clinton offered an implicit critique of Trump, issuing a call to unite the nation and asking worshippers to reject "the demagoguery, the prejudice, the paranoia." Asked by actor Tony Goldwyn, who later campaigned with Clinton in Nashville, about her thoughts on Duke's support for Trump, Clinton described it, simply, as "pathetic." Clinton's South Carolina victory was fueled by an 84-16 advantage among African-Americans, a key Democratic constituency that will also play a dominant role in several Super Tuesday states in the South. Sanders acknowledged getting "decimated" in South Carolina, though he promised in an ABC interview to continue his campaign against what he describes as a political and economic oligarchy. He avoided mentioning his huge South Carolina loss at a rally before more than 6,000 cheering people at an Oklahoma City convention center. The latest shake up in the Republican race comes as attention shifts to the South, with about a half dozen states in the region holding contests on Tuesday. Trump holds commanding leads across the region, with the exception of Cruz's home state of Texas, a dynamic that puts tremendous pressure on Rubio and Cruz as they try to outlast each other and derail Trump. Campaigning in Virginia, Rubio pounced on Trump's latest position on Duke, shifting to a more serious tone after spending the weekend mocking his rival's hair and "the worst spray tan in America." "We cannot be a party who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," the Florida senator told thousands of supporters gathered in Leesburg, Virginia. "Not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable. How are we going to grow the party if we nominate someone who doesn't repudiate the Ku Klux Klan?" Cruz also weighed in on Sunday, calling Trump's comments "Really sad." "You're better than this," Cruz wrote. "We should all agree, racism is wrong, KKK is abhorrent." Trump also garnered backlash Sunday for recently retweeting a quote from Benito Mussolini, the 20th century fascist dictator of Italy, which reads: "It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep." Trump told NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday, "I know who said it. But what difference does it make whether it's Mussolini or somebody else? It's certainly a very interesting quote." Trump has established himself as the front-runner after winning three of the four early voting contests. That's led Rubio and Cruz, both first-term senators, to unleash a personal and policy-based barrage against Trump, warning his nomination would be catastrophic for the Republican Party in the November election and beyond. "We're about to lose the conservative movement to someone who's not a conservative and (lose) the party of Lincoln and Reagan to a con artist," Rubio said Sunday on Fox News. Separately, Cruz warned the "Trump train" could become "unstoppable" if he rolls to big victories Tuesday. Trump, for his part, relishes his position, mocking the Republican establishment and his flailing rivals. On CNN, Trump explained his own brand of populism. "I'm representing a lot of anger out there," he said. "We're not angry people, but we're angry at the way this country's being run (and) angry at the way the Republican Party is being run." ___ Associated Press reporter Laurie Kellman contributed from Washington. Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton greets supporters at her election night watch party after winning the South Carolina Democratic primary in Columbia, S.C., Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016. (AP Photo/Gerald Herbert) Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., pauses while speaking at a campaign rally at the Mayo Civic Center in Rochester, Minn., Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016. (AP Photo/Jacquelyn Martin) New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, right, introduces Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, left, at a rally at Millington Regional Airport in Millington, Tenn., Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) Presidential candidate Sen. Marco Rubio shakes hands during rally at U.S. Space & Rocket Center in Huntsville, Ala., Saturday Feb. 27, 2016 (Bob Gathany/AL.com via AP) MANDATORY CREDIT Biologists kill bully owls to protect endangered owls SAN FRANCISCO (AP) A biologist and contractor with a lumber company is at the heart of an experiment sanctioned by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service: killing bully owls to protect endangered owls. Biologist Lowell Diller, a contractor for Green Diamond Resource Co., a lumber company managing timberland in Humboldt, Del Norte and Trinity counties, kills barred owls, which are known to bully the smaller northern spotted owl, the San Jose Mercury News reported (http://bayareane.ws/1QlXvDn). The barred owl has invaded California from the eastern United States, muscling out northern spotted owls upstate, and spreading south toward San Francisco. A Pacific Northwest native, the spotted owl is threatened with extinction and has become the symbol of the region's timber conservation battles. Jack Dumbacher, seen in a Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016 photo, is a curator of Ornithology and Mammalogy at he California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco, Calif., and is studying the alarming impact of the invasive barred owl, foreground, on threatened spotted owl populations. (Karl Mondon/San Jose Mercury News via AP) MAGS OUT; NO SALES; MANDATORY CREDIT Northern spotted owl populations have fallen in some areas by about 12 percent each year, despite efforts enacted in the 1990s to protect their old-growth forest habitat. After Diller learned Jack Dumbacher, ornithology curator at the California Academy of Sciences, had a permit to collect some barred owl specimens, Diller saw an opportunity and applied for his own permit. In 2009, he set aside patches of timberland to remove barred owls. In other patches, he did nothing. After four years, he found that in the areas without barred owls, northern spotted owls are no longer declining. A study soon to be published in the Journal of Wildlife Management and Wildlife Monographs shows Diller's grisly conservation experiment works because without barred owls competing for habitat, northern spotted owls bounce back. But the ethics of the approach leave some conservationists uncomfortable. "It's sort of a no-win situation," said Andrea Jones, the National Audubon Society's California director of bird conservation. "We're not advocating for the killing or against the killing." She says old-growth habitat destruction is to blame for pitting the two owls against each other. Shawn Cantrell, Defenders of Wildlife's northwestern program director, suggested that barred owl removal should play a short-term role in spotted owl conservation, while habitat restoration should play a bigger one. "When we mess things up, we have an obligation to fix them," he said. Diller, too, says he doesn't enjoy killing the animals and tries to focus on what he's saving: the northern spotted owl. He talks about a pair of owls that emerged from hiding only two weeks after he'd removed barred owls from their old home. "They were looking for a free mouse and flew up to greet me," he said. "That was thrilling." Jack Dumbacher, curator of the California Academy of Sciences Department of Ornithology and Mammalogy, looks at a collection of barred owl specimens in San Francisco, Calif., on Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016. Dumbacher is studying the alarming impact of the invasive barred owl, foreground, on threatened spotted owl populations. (Karl Mondon/San Jose Mercury News via AP) MAGS OUT; NO SALES; MANDATORY CREDIT A 'hero' cop gets lost in Peru's narco war TALAVERA, Peru (AP) Johnny Vega rarely carried his 9-mm pistol when he wasn't on duty. He wishes he had that day. The narcotics cop was chatting with a friend on a park bench, the Andean sun burning the dawn's chill off this highlands town nearly 10,000 feet (2,900 meters) above sea level. On that morning of Aug. 20, 2014, Vega had dropped his son Juan at nursery school and then walked to Talavera's main square. He noticed a tall young man strolling by and wondered if he knew him. In this March 30, 2015 photo, narcotics Police Sgt. Johnny Vega poses for a portrait in Lima, Peru. Vega, 46, was shot during an attempt on his life in 2014 in what police called payback for taking down the region's biggest drug gang. He remains disabled and is struggling to mend. If he doesn't by August, he will be forced to retire. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd) Vega was a rarity in this nation where cops, courts and congress are badly compromised by corruption . An earnest provincial narcotics officer, he had made a career of actually doing what he was trained for: locking up criminals. Defying death threats from narcos, he led a hand-picked team of trusted officers who consistently scored trafficker arrests and record drug seizures even as Peru became the world's No. 1 cocaine producer. In a country where police are as likely to take bribes as to make arrests, Vega was a hero. Three times, he had been named police officer of the year. Vega was deep in conversation when the young man walked by again, stopped and leveled a silencer-equipped Bersa at the cop's head. "What are you doing, dammit!" Vega shouted, jumping to his feet. The bullet ripped into him just below his solar plexus. Without hesitating, he dashed for a nearby taxi stand, leaning forward and zig-zagging to make himself a smaller target. The hit man kept firing but did not give chase. A stray bullet pierced the thigh of a vendor. "Help! I'm a cop. I've been shot!" Vega shouted. A woman passenger pulled the bleeding man into her cab, which sped to a hospital 15 minutes away. In the operating room, surgeons opened him up, pulled out his intestines and laid them out on the table to assess the damage and sew the pierced organs back together. Part of his colon was lost. The local narcotics prosecutor arranged for him to be flown to Lima the next morning in a plane owned by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. As the ambulance bounced up the rutted road to the airport, Vega groaned. His wife, a schoolteacher, clutched his hand. Lima-based drug agents quickly arrested the alleged hit man while Vega was in the operating theater. The motive? Payback for targeting a drug gang. Police said one of its principals, Armando "El Loco" Cardenas, hired the shooter, provided the gun and promised him and an accomplice $10,000 each to kill Vega. El Loco was arrested, too. As news of the shooting spread, accolades for the hero cop poured in. U.S. Ambassador Brian Nichols sent a letter commending Vega, and then-Interior Minister Daniel Urresti appeared before the press with the arrested men. Vega's valor would be rewarded, he vowed. "We are going to promote him and give him all he needs to recover and continue with his work," Urresti said. Drug war analysts were impressed by Vega. But would Peruvian authorities make good on their promise to this officer from Peru's poorly paid, notoriously neglected police force? From his hospital bed, Vega believed the promise would be kept. He would later conclude that he would have been better off if he had simply had his gun that August morning. ___ "WATCH OUT FOR YOUR CUTE LITTLE CHILDREN." Nearly 70 percent of Peru's cocaine originates in the Apurimac, Ene and Mantaro river valley, a two- to three-day hike from Andahuaylas, the provincial capital 15 minutes from Talavera. What is ultimately refined into the crystalline powder snorted in distant lands arrives as semi-refined coca paste carried out of the valley by young backpackers, or "mochileros ." They call the paste "queso," or cheese, for its pungent odor. It is typically stashed in bricks amid groves of eucalyptus and acacia until traffickers have enough to dispatch it by road, usually to Bolivia. The youngest of nine, Johnny Vega was sent by his father to finish high school in the state capital in 1986. The next year, his father, the village leader, was seized by Shining Path rebels and disappeared. Johnny joined the army, and searched for his father's remains. Not until a decade later, after the insurgents were vanquished, were they found. By then, Johnny was a cop and Andahuaylas was becoming a major drug-trafficking corridor. "Andahuaylas is like a sieve. The drugs go in and out every which way," said Vega, who is tall with a square Andean nose. Provincial police took bribes to let the drugs go through. At least one apparent exception was the regional police chief who in 2009 tapped Vega to form a 15-man squad focused on narcotics. Vega had proven himself years earlier. At a 2002 stakeout, cocaine backpackers hurled a grenade at him that peppered his chest and knee with shrapnel. Vega's new squad wasn't equipped for its mission. So he borrowed vehicles and flak vests, scrounged handcuffs and flashlights. Then he did something unheard of: He created a night shift so the squad could work around-the-clock, since the traffickers operated mostly under the cover of darkness. His agents seized more than a half ton of coca paste the first three years, making more than 60 arrests. No other provincial unit did such work, narcotics prosecutor Elvira Aldana said. "He was the only cop sticking his neck out," she said. The death threats started coming by phone and text message in 2010, the first time Vega was named Andahuaylas' policeman of the year. "Just as you have your snitches, so do we," said one. "Watch out for your cute little children." Vega and his wife asked to be transferred, but nothing happened. Nevertheless, Vega did not ease up. In early 2014, elite agents of the Lima-based narcotics police set out to take down Andahuaylas' biggest drug clans, an ambitious undercover operation. Vega was the only local officer they trusted. They seized nearly 400 kilograms of coca paste, more than a third of it hidden in a compartment under sacks of potatoes on a tractor-trailer truck. Police said most of the drug was traced back to alleged capo Dimas Urrutia, who they arrested the next month. Four days later, Vega was shot. ___ A DEAD CAT In September 2014, after his nearly monthlong hospital stay, Vega got some good news. He would be promoted to the equivalent of master sergeant and transferred to Lima, where he would have 24 months to recover or face mandatory retirement. Vega figured he merited special treatment, but no stipend, lodging or transport were offered. He would need to manage alone on his $1,000 monthly salary. His wife, Yesi, had returned home to Talavera a 20-hour bus ride away to care for their two boys and resume her teaching job. She was four months pregnant. His new boss wrote the deputy education minister asking that Vega's wife also be reassigned to Lima due to the "emergency situation." But nothing was done. Vega moved in with his 84-year-old mother in the dusty hillside Lima slum of San Juan de Miraflores. His wound, initially infected, required going to the hospital to be cleaned, his cab rides costing $10 each way. He wore a colostomy bag to collect his waste while awaiting surgery. With no one to attend to him, Vega cooked, cleaned and washed for himself. He developed a hernia that grew into a four-inch bulge in the center of his gut, and wears an elastic girdle. It took 10 months before his colon was reattached, as Vega coped with the usual shortcomings of the police health care system long waits for tests and consultations, a shortage of doctors and modern equipment. He paid out of pocket for some blood tests and medicines. Only half was reimbursed. With her husband stuck in Lima, Yesi asked the local police chief to send patrol cars past her house as a protective measure, since strange vehicles were crawling by at odd hours. Late one night, someone shattered her front window and tossed in a dead cat, its legs hog-tied. "It had papers jammed in its mouth as if to say, 'This is how you will all die,'" Yesi recalled, her voice cracking. "I never told my husband. He wasn't well." Yesi personally appealed to the national police director for protection. Again, nothing happened. The prosecutor in the case, Aldana, got different treatment. Wiretaps revealed that she, too, had been targeted for assassination. She was assigned four bodyguards then transferred out. ___ A BROKEN SYSTEM, A BROKEN HERO In November, Johnny was back home in Talavera gathering strength for his next surgery. He stayed mostly behind locked doors. When he went out, he tucked his 9-mm Baikal pistol into a pouch strapped across his chest. "Do you have your gun?" 6-year-old Juan would fearfully ask his father. Talavera is a small town. The three reputed capos linked to her husband's shooting were all in Lima prisons, but Yesi was regularly seeing their wives about town. One had a daughter in Juan's nursery school class. The lure of cocaine cash is powerful in this valley where the only other significant income source is farming. After Vega was shot, the cocaine trade roared back. Not a single kilo of coca paste was seized last year, and the unit Vega commanded is down to six men. The local cops are mostly inert, if not in cahoots with narcos, prosecutors and Lima-based drug police say. About two dozen are under investigation for money-laundering, narcotics prosecutor Lincoln Fuentes said. They own property or vehicles far beyond their means. Recently, a police captain was arrested on trafficking charges near the Bolivian border after posting a photo on Facebook showing him with a sheaf of $100 bills between his teeth. "Weekend spending money," the caption read. Two weeks ago, when Vega complained about lingering pain, doctors ordered a colonoscopy. It found a 4-inch (10-centimeter) length of surgical thread loose inside his colon. His doctors lack the endoscopic scissors to snip it out and they don't agree on whether the thread should be removed before surgery to mend his abdominal hernia. Leading Peruvian criminal justice analyst Cesar Bazan said Monday that the level of neglect Vega is experiencing is all too common. "Dozens of retired police officers, hurt on the job, have been abandoned by the police. Unfortunately, injustice and frustration abound," he said. Vega, 46, has begun to reconcile himself to the idea he may not heal in time to avoid forced retirement in August. At a doctor's visit last month, he joked about heading down to the cocaine valley to chase narcos and recalled the pleasures of hiking with a heavy pack, something his body can no longer bear. Yesi is heartbroken to see her husband so diminished still unwell and far from his family. "We are simply demanding what my husband by rights should be getting," Yesi said. "In his time, he was the news of the day. But now he's been forgotten." ___ Frank Bajak is on Twitter: http://twitter.com/fbajak . His work can be found at http://bigstory.ap.org/author/frank-bajak . In this Nov. 6, 2015 photo, narcotics police Sgt. Johnny Vega talks on his cellphone while he sits on the same park bench where he was shot by a gunman in Talavera, Peru. Vega, 45, had his colon reattached in June but remains disabled. If he doesn't mend by August, he faces forced retirement. (AP Photo/Martin Mejia) In this Nov. 6, 2015 photo, narcotics police Sgt. Johnny Vega walks with his son Juan in Talavera, Peru. On the morning of Aug. 20, 2014, an assassin tried to kill Vega. By the time he reached the emergency room, Vega had lost so much blood he nearly passed out. Eighteen months later, he is struggling to mend. (AP Photo/Martin Mejia) For Iranian restaurants in Saudi, it's business as usual RIYADH, Saudi Arabia (AP) Iran and Saudi Arabia's rivalry has played out in proxy wars across the region, and escalated further after the two severed diplomatic and trade ties last month. Yet in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, popular Iranian restaurants are outselling feverish calls for a boycott and stand as a reminder of when ties between the two countries held promise. In the 1990s, inside steaming kitchens in Riyadh, Iranian chefs taught their counterparts how to season and cook Persian dishes for a Saudi-owned Iranian restaurant called Shayah. The food proved so popular that nearly 20 years later, Shayah is a chain with 13 outlets in the kingdom, 11 of them in Riyadh. The bold signs on their storefronts proclaiming the restaurants as the "House of Iranian Cuisine" are daring in a country where Iran is now viewed as an existential threat. In this Jan. 27, 2016 photo, women order Iranian food from Shayah restaurant in Kingdom Center Mall in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Iran and Saudi Arabias rivalry has played out in proxy wars across the region, and escalated further after the two severed diplomatic and trade ties in January. Yet in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, popular Iranian restaurants are outselling feverish calls for a boycott and stand as a reminder of when ties between the two countries held promise. (AP Photo/Aya Batrawy) Despite Saudi-Iranian tensions, the two countries have deep historic links. For centuries, traders carrying spices and rugs have traveled the Persian Gulf, landing on the shores of the Arabian Peninsula and weaving Iranian culture into Arab life. A prominent Saudi prince, speaking to reporters this week in Abu Dhabi, said political tensions do not change that Arabs and Iranians "believe in the same God, and the same prophet and the same holy book." "I don't think there is any family in the Arabian Peninsula in general, and Saudi Arabia in particular, that has not had, in one form or another, some kind of link to Iran in the past and visa-versa," said Prince Turki al-Faisal, a former director of Saudi intelligence. In Bahrain, where Shiites are the majority, many villages have Persian names and many speak Farsi at home. In Kuwait, some of the wealthiest families and businessmen are originally Iranian. The United Arab Emirates has long been a haven for Iranian businessmen, who have established an Iranian hospital, business council and club for Iranian families living in Dubai. Even Saudi and Iran's longstanding rivalry appeared to be cooling in the 1990s, as joint opposition to Saddam Hussein's invasion of Kuwait helped Riyadh and Tehran restore ties in 1991. The two governments exchanged high-level visits in the late '90s and ties improved further until a political crisis in Yemen saw them backing opposite sides of the conflict in 2000, with Saudi Arabia intervening militarily nine years later and again in 2015. A handful of Iranian chefs were able to live and work in Saudi Arabia during the 1990s and early 2000s. Today, that would be unthinkable, said the General Manager of Shayah restaurants, Mohammed Farhat for a start, they wouldn't be granted work visas. He said the last of Shayah's Iranian employees left Saudi Arabia five years ago. Saudi Arabia and Iran are now locked in proxy wars for regional supremacy, backing opposite sides of the wars in Syria and Yemen and supporting political rivals in Lebanon, Bahrain and Iraq. The conflicts have deepened Sunni-Shiite enmity between hard-liners on both sides. Relations hit a new low in January when Saudi Arabia executed a prominent Saudi Shiite cleric. Iranians protested and ransacked the Saudi Embassy in Tehran and its consulate in another part of the country. Diplomatic and trade ties between the two were severed and Saudi Arabia halted all commercial flights to and from Iran. According to Iran's Ministry of Industry and Trade, Iranian exports to Riyadh for the first half of 2015 stood at $132 million, and Saudi imports accounted for $40 million. Well before ties were officially cut, an Arabic Twitter account, named "Boycotting Iranian Goods," was telling its more than 23,000 followers that it is a religious and national duty to do so. Dozens of tweets were sent outing Iranian products in Saudi grocery stores, including photos of ice cream, rose water, golden apples, saffron, honey and a fizzy pomegranate drink. Shayah also became the target of zealous tweets, with some demanding that it remove the word "Iranian" from its signs and menu. "We don't want anything opened in the kingdom of Saudi Arabia with the name of the devil 'Iran'," said one tweet. "Their kebab is good, but I suggest they remove the word 'Iranian' and continue on," said another. Even so, it appears a Saudi boycott of Iranian lamb skewers and saffron-infused rice is off the table for now. At a bustling food court in Riyadh's Kingdom Center mall, American fast food dominates. Nestled among Sbarro's pizzeria, a Krispy Kreme doughnut stand and a KFC is one of Shayah's branches, where a steady stream of customers, among them 26 year-old Hajjar Mohammed and her friend Rawan Fahd, ordered sandwiches. "If the government isn't barring it, why should we?" said Fahd, who thinks the restaurant should keep its "House of Iranian Cuisine" strapline. Mohammed jumped in to add that many items on the menu are Middle Eastern dishes anyway, and not just Iranian. Several fans of the restaurant have come to its defense on Twitter, with one simply writing "Please, keep food out of this!" For customers who might have doubts, a framed letter was put up in all of Shayah's branches several months ago stating the chain's Saudi ownership and financing. Like many Saudis, customer Mohammed al-Tamimi, 30, vehemently disagrees with Iran's policies in the region, but says he has no problem with the people of Iran. "It's not a problem of culture, but a problem of politics," he said, as he stepped out of Shayah carrying warm Iranian food to go. ___ Follow Aya Batrawy on Twitter at www.twitter.com/ayaelb . In this Jan. 27, 2016 photo, a woman orders Iranian food from Shayah restaurant in Kingdom Center Mall in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Iran and Saudi Arabias rivalry has played out in proxy wars across the region, and escalated further after the two severed diplomatic and trade ties in January. Yet in the Saudi capital, Riyadh, popular Iranian restaurants are outselling feverish calls for a boycott and stand as a reminder of when ties between the two countries held promise. (AP Photo/Aya Batrawy) Death toll rises to 38 in IS bombing at Iraqi funeral BAGHDAD (AP) The death toll has risen to 38 after an IS suicide bomber struck an Iraqi funeral Monday, wounding dozens in a crowded reception room. A local Shiite militia leader is among the dead in a town north of Baghdad that saw a wave of revenge attacks after a similar bombing in January. Another 58 people were wounded in the bombing in Muqdadiyah, about 60 miles (90 kilometers) north of the capital, according to security and hospital officials. The dead included a local commander in Asaib Ahl al-Haq, a powerful Shiite militia that is part of the state-sanctioned Popular Mobilization Forces, responsible for much of the security in the area. The attacker was wearing a suicide vest and entered the funeral hall among mourners lining up to pay their respects to the militia leader, according to a local security official. An injured victims of bombing attacks receives treatment at the Imam Ali Hospital in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. In Iraq, the death toll from devastating back-to-back market bombings carried out by the Islamic State group the previous day in eastern Baghdad climbed to at least 70 on Monday, officials said. Several of the critically wounded died overnight while over 100 people remain in hospital, two police officials said. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim) The Islamic State group bombed a cafe frequented by militiamen in Muqdadiyah in January, killing at least 32 people and triggering a wave of revenge attacks on Sunni mosques and civilians. The New York-based Human Rights Watch blamed the reprisal attacks on powerful militias within the Popular Mobilization Forces. The Islamic State group also claimed responsibility for Monday's attack in a statement posted online. On Sunday a double bombing in Baghdad claimed by the IS group killed 73 people. The initial blast on Sunday ripped through a crowded market in the Shiite district of Sadr City. A suicide bomber then targeted the crowd that gathered to help the victims. Two police officials said 112 people remain hospitalized. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Sunday's bombings marked the deadliest single attack in the Iraqi capital in months, fueling fears that the IS group is resorting to mass attacks on civilians as it suffers battlefield setbacks. IS still controls much of northern and western Iraq, but has been driven back in recent months. The government recently declared the western city of Ramadi "fully liberated." IS had captured the city last year. ___ Associated Press writer Murtada Faraj contributed to this report. An injured victim of bombing attacks receives treatment at the Imam Ali Hospital in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. In Iraq, the death toll from devastating back-to-back market bombings carried out by the Islamic State group the previous day in eastern Baghdad climbed to at least 70 on Monday, officials said. Several of the critically wounded died overnight while over 100 people remain in hospital, two police officials said. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim) A child visits an injured man at the Imam Ali Hospital in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. In Iraq, the death toll from devastating back-to-back market bombings carried out by the Islamic State group the previous day in eastern Baghdad climbed to at least 70 on Monday, officials said. Several of the critically wounded died overnight while over 100 people remain in hospital, two police officials said. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim) Victims of bombing attacks are treated at the Imam Ali Hospital in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. In Iraq, the death toll from devastating back-to-back market bombings carried out by the Islamic State group the previous day in eastern Baghdad climbed to at least 70 on Monday, officials said. Several of the critically wounded died overnight while over 100 people remain in hospital, two police officials said. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim) An injured victim receives treatment at the Imam Ali Hospital in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. In Iraq, the death toll from devastating back-to-back market bombings carried out by the Islamic State group the previous day in eastern Baghdad climbed to at least 70 on Monday, officials said. Several of the critically wounded died overnight while over 100 people remain in hospital, two police officials said. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim) Victims of bombing attacks are treated at the Imam Ali Hospital in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. In Iraq, the death toll from devastating back-to-back market bombings carried out by the Islamic State group the previous day in eastern Baghdad climbed to at least 70 on Monday, officials said. Several of the critically wounded died overnight while over 100 people remain in hospital, two police officials said. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim) A victim of bombing attacks receives treatment at the Imam Ali Hospital in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. In Iraq, the death toll from devastating back-to-back market bombings carried out by the Islamic State group the previous day in eastern Baghdad climbed to at least 70 on Monday, officials said. Several of the critically wounded died overnight while over 100 people remain in hospital, two police officials said. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim) A victim of a bombing attack receives treatment at the Imam Ali Hospital in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. In Iraq, the death toll from devastating back-to-back market bombings carried out by the Islamic State group the previous day in eastern Baghdad climbed to at least 70 on Monday, officials said. Several of the critically wounded died overnight while over 100 people remain in hospital, two police officials said. (AP Photo/Karim Kadim) Street vendors collect their belongings after deadly bombing attacks in Sadr City, Baghdad, Iraq, Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016. Militants attacked Mredi outdoor market on Sunday in eastern Baghdad, killing at least 24 people and wounding dozens, officials said. Minutes later, a suicide bomber blew himself up amid the crowd that had gathered at the site of the first bombing, he added. (AP Photo/Ali Abdul Hassan) Iranian hard-liners losers in parliament, clerical body TEHRAN, Iran (AP) Iranian voters dealt hard-liners a serious blow in elections for parliament and an influential clerical body, favoring reformists and relative moderates who support last year's nuclear deal in the country's first elections since the landmark agreement, results released Monday showed. Reformists, who favor expanded social freedoms and engagement with the West, won at least 85 seats, according to final results released by the Interior Ministry and broadcast on state TV. Moderate conservatives who split with the hard-line camp and support the nuclear deal won 73, giving the two blocs together a majority over hard-liners in the 290-seat assembly. The vote isn't expected to herald large-scale change in Iranian policies, but may make it easier for President Hassan Rouhani to deliver in areas such as promoting social freedoms and reforming the economy. FILE -- In this Friday, Feb. 26, 2016 file photo, an Iranian voter shows her hand with numbers 30+16, a reformists slogan urging people to vote all reformists and moderate candidates in Tehran, for both parliament and Assembly of Experts elections, as she fills out her ballot in a polling station in Tehran, Iran. Iranian moderates, who support last years nuclear deal, won a 59 percent majority in the Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body which will choose the successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been Iran's top decision-maker since 1989. The 76-year-old underwent prostate surgery in 2014, leading to renewed speculations about the state of his health. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi, File) Hard-liners won just 68 seats, down from 112 in the current parliament. Five seats will go to religious minorities, and the remaining 59 will be decided in a runoff, likely to be held in April. While none of the country's three main political camps will dominate the next parliament, reformists and moderate conservatives are expected to work together at least on economic issues. That should make the assembly less hostile to Rouhani, a moderate elected in 2013 on pledges to relax restrictions on freedom of expression and improve ties with the West. "Rouhani will face a friendly parliament," said Ali Reza Khamesian, the campaign manager for top reformist vote getter Mohammad Reza Aref. Khamesian said the president could count on parliament's support to drive through economic reforms and expand social freedoms. "Getting parliamentary approval to lift restrictions on women attending male sports stadiums and providing greater protection for women's rights will be among the measures" Rouhani can achieve, he said. At least 12 women have already been elected to parliament, including Fatemeh Hosseini, a 30-year old business administration expert, and six others will compete in the runoff vote. A win by three in the second round would make for the biggest female parliamentary presence in Iran's history. "As a young woman, I ran to inspire women and give them courage to fight for their rights. I ran to play my role in the destiny of the country and stop extremists from capturing seats in parliament," Hosseini said. U.S. officials had expressed hope that last year's landmark agreement, which lifted international sanctions in exchange for Iran curbing its nuclear activities, might pave the way for greater cooperation with Tehran on other regional issues. The strong showing by reformists and other relative moderates makes that more likely. "The ... election was a referendum on Rouhani, and the vote came back 'yes,'" said analyst Cliff Kupchan of the New York-based Eurasia Group. "He and his government are now stronger, and the president will have more ballast to pursue political and economic reform if he so desires." Still, the parliament vote isn't expected to herald large-scale change in Iranian foreign policy, and it's extremely unlikely that the winners will propose structural reforms to reduce the role of Islam in government or law. The condition for them to run in the election was to remain loyal to the principles of the Islamic Republic. Moderates also won a 59 percent majority in the Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body which will choose the successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been Iran's top decision-maker since 1989. The 76-year-old underwent prostate surgery in 2014, leading to renewed speculation about the state of his health. Rouhani and former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, both considered moderates, retained their seats in the assembly. However, several prominent hard-liners, including Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, were also re-elected. Jannati is the leader of the Guardian Council, an unelected, constitutional watchdog that vets election candidates, and has been a leading opponent of democratic reforms. He has also led efforts to disqualify reformist candidates. Out of 3,000 reformists who applied to run in this year's elections, just 200 made it through the vetting process. The Assembly of Experts is elected every eight years. Moderates previously held around 20 seats in the assembly. Perhaps the most surprising result of the election was the loss of seats in the Assembly of Experts by two prominent hard-liners: Ayatollah Mohammad Yazdi, the current head of the assembly, and Mohammad Taqi Mesbah Yazdi, considered the spiritual leader of hard-liners. Rouhani and his allies likely benefited from last month's implementation of the nuclear agreement, which lifted crippling sanctions that had been tightened since 2012. But analysts said the election results were also driven by domestic factors, including lingering anger at President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, Rouhani's hard-line predecessor. "Hard-liners were defeated because most of their candidates were Ahmadinejad loyalists, annoying their former allies," said Abbas Abdi, a political analyst aligned with the reformist camp. Ahmadinejad repeatedly clashed with the West over his dramatic expansion of the nuclear program, his questioning of the scale of the Holocaust and his predictions of Israel's demise. His policies led many conservatives to break with hard-liners, and the moderate conservatives' support for the nuclear talks and subsequent agreement widened the rift. "We trusted hard-liners but the result was not positive," said Tehran resident Azadeh Yusefi. "There were lots of embezzlements and mismanagement. So, I felt another group should come and take over the parliament and that new things needed to happen. I'm very optimistic." Some politicians previously seen as hard-liners, including outgoing parliament speaker Ali Larijani, are now considered to be moderate conservatives who by and large support Rouhani's government and the nuclear deal. Iranian analyst Saeed Leilaz said Rouhani has convinced powerful institutions within the ruling system that serious changes are needed to lift Iran's isolation and shore up its economy, which has suffered from years of sanctions. "In addition to fellow reformists, moderate conservatives will be an asset for Rouhani to pursue his domestic agenda, including social and economic reforms," he said. "A friendlier parliament will also help Rouhani pursue his policy of constructive engagement with the West without the same degree of hostility he faced in the outgoing parliament," he said. Reformists last rose to power in 1997 with the election of President Mohammad Khatami and secured a majority in parliament three years later. But the pendulum soon swung back toward hard-liners, who dominated Iranian politics from 2004 until Rouhani's election nearly three years ago. Khamenei, who makes all final decisions on major policies, insists he is above the political fray. But the supreme leader remains deeply suspicious of the West and has warned that too much openness to Western influence could dilute the country's Islamic values. Washington and Tehran severed diplomatic relations after Iran's 1979 revolution. They remain deeply divided on a host of regional issues, including Tehran's support for Syrian President Bashar Assad and militant groups like Hezbollah and Hamas, which are committed to Israel's destruction. ___ Associated Press writers Amir Vahdat in Tehran and Adam Schreck in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, contributed to this report. FILE -- In this Friday, Feb. 26, 2016 file photo released by official website of the office of the Iranian Presidency, President Hassan Rouhani waves to media after casting his vote for parliamentary and Experts Assembly elections in Tehran, Iran. Iranian moderates won a 59 percent majority in the Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body which will choose the successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been Iran's top decision-maker since 1989. The 76-year-old underwent prostate surgery in 2014, leading to renewed speculations about the state of his health. (Iranian Presidency Office via AP, File) FILE -- In this Friday, Feb. 26, 2016 file photo, Iranians vote in the parliamentary and Experts Assembly elections at a polling station in Qom, 125 kilometers (78 miles) south of the capital Tehran, Iran. Iranian moderates won a 59 percent majority in the Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body which will choose the successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been Iran's top decision-maker since 1989. The 76-year-old underwent prostate surgery in 2014, leading to renewed speculations about the state of his health. (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi, File) FILE -- In this Friday, Feb. 26, 2016 file photo, released by official website of the office of the Iranian supreme leader, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei casts his ballot during parliamentary and Experts Assembly elections in Tehran, Iran. Iranian moderates won a 59 percent majority in the Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body which will choose the successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been Iran's top decision-maker since 1989. The 76-year-old underwent prostate surgery in 2014, leading to renewed speculations about the state of his health. (Office of the Iranian Supreme Leader via AP, File) FILE -- In this July 31, 2009 file photo, Ultraconservative Ayatollah Ahmad Jannati, who heads the powerful Guardian Council, Iran's top electoral oversight body, delivers the Friday prayer's sermon, at the Tehran University campus, Iran. Iranian moderates, who support last years nuclear deal, won a 59 percent majority in the Assembly of Experts, an 88-member body which will choose the successor to Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been Iran's top decision-maker since 1989. The 76-year-old underwent prostate surgery in 2014, leading to renewed speculations about the state of his health. (AP Photo/Vahid Salemi, File) Former Bayern boss Hoeness released from prison MUNICH (AP) Former Bayern Munich president Uli Hoeness has been released from prison after serving half of a 3-1/2 year sentence for tax evasion. The Bavarian justice ministry said Hoeness was freed Monday, news agency dpa reported. It gave no further details. Hoeness will be on probation for the next three years. The former Germany and Bayern star was convicted two years ago of evading millions of euros in tax through an undeclared bank account and stepped down as Bayern president. He began serving his sentence June 2, 2014. GOP badly split as Trump, Clinton seek Super Tuesday wins VALDOSTA, Ga. (AP) On the eve of Super Tuesday's crucial primaries, a sharp new divide erupted between Republicans who pledge to fall in line behind Donald Trump if he wins their party's nomination and others who insist they can never back the bombastic billionaire. The fissure could have major implications beyond the primaries, exposing the looming challenges in uniting the party after the election, no matter who wins. Nebraska's Ben Sasse, a rising star among conservatives, became the first current senator to publicly raise the prospect of backing a third-party option if Trump clinches the nomination. In a letter posted on Facebook late Sunday, Sasse urged Republicans to consider whether a party led by Trump would still represent their interests. Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump greets members of the audience after speaking at a rally at Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Ga., Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik) "If our party is no longer working for the things we believe in like defending the sanctity of life, stopping Obamacare, protecting the Second Amendment, etc. then people of good conscience should stop supporting that party until it is reformed," he wrote. The Associated Press asked Republican senators and governors across the country if they would support Trump if he secured the nomination. Just under half of those who responded would not commit to backing him, foreshadowing a potentially extraordinary break this fall. "I am increasingly concerned by Donald Trump's statements and behavior, and I have serious concerns about his ability to win the general election and provide presidential leadership," Indiana Sen. Dan Coats said in a statement to the AP. The concern among Republican leaders appeared to grow in light of Trump's refusal to immediately disavow former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke's support. Mitt Romney, the party's 2012 nominee, called that "disqualifying." And South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, campaigning in Atlanta alongside Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, said she would "not stop fighting a man who refuses to disavow the KKK." Trump said he had not understood the interviewer who first raised the question about Duke, and he did later repudiate him. "How many times do I have to continue to disavow people?" he said. Several high-profile Republicans and conservative writers have embraced an anti-Trump social media campaign, using the Twitter hashtag "NeverTrump." Trump has won three of four early primary contests, roiling a party that had assumed his populist appeal with voters would fizzle. Instead, he's only grown stronger and appears to be in commanding position heading into Super Tuesday, the biggest single-day delegate haul of the year. Tensions boiled over during Trump's rally Monday in Radford, Virginia, where he was repeatedly disrupted by demonstrators, including 20 or more chanting "Black lives matter." At another point, he asked a protester, "Are you from Mexico?" after he was interrupted during remarks about immigration. He ordered several people to be removed, then cast himself as a unifying political force. "Believe it or not, we're going to unify this country," he said. If Trump sweeps most of the states up for grabs Tuesday, he could amass a delegate lead that would be difficult for any rival to overcome. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz is banking on a win in his home state to keep him in the race, while Rubio wants to stay close in the delegate count until the primary hits his home state of Florida on March 15. Meanwhile, Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton is solidifying her lead. Like Trump, Clinton could begin putting her party's nomination out of reach for rival Bernie Sanders with a strong showing on Super Tuesday. As Trump has rolled through the early voting states, he's received enthusiastic endorsements from New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions, one of the most vocal opponents of immigration-law changes on Capitol Hill. Several other party officials have said they would back the real estate mogul if he does become the nominee, though some say their support would be reluctant. "I'm a Republican and I will support the nominee," Alabama Gov. Robert Bentley said Monday. "I do not think he is our best nominee, but I will support the nominee." Party leaders are particularly worried about the ripple effect of a Trump nomination on other races. Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson urged Republicans to remember that their White House pick also affects "the Senate and whether we're going to continue to elect Republican governors across the country." A new commercial released Monday by Arizona Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick, who is challenging John McCain for his Senate seat, served as a likely preview of how Democrats would seek to link GOP candidates to Trump. The 60-second spot highlighted several of Trump's more incendiary statements and questioned how McCain could say he would support him in the general election. Some Republicans said Senate candidates and others would have to forgo party unity in order to save themselves. "It's not going to be a team effort. It's going to be every man for himself," said Matt Mackowiak, a GOP strategist who is unaffiliated in the 2016 race. ___ Pace reported from Washington. AP writers Thomas Beaumont in Atlanta, Kimberly Chandler in Montgomery, Alabama, and Andrew Taylor, Donna Cassata and Steve Peoples in Washington contributed to this report. ___ Follow Julie Pace at http://twitter.com/jpaceDC and Jill Colvin at http://twitter.com/colvinj Protesters yell as they are escorted out of a rally for Republican presidential candidate, Donald Trump at Radford University in Radford, Va., Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) Republican presidential candidate, Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla. laughs while waiting to be introduced by South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley at a campaign event at the InterContinental Hotel, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, in Atlanta. (AP Photo/David Goldman) Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump gestures during a rally at Radford University in Radford, Va., Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) Protesters are escorted out of a rally for Republican presidential candidate, Donald Trump at Radford University in Radford, Va., Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. (AP Photo/Steve Helber) Republican presidential candidate, Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas speaks to supporters during a campaign rally at the Gilley's nightclub, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, in Dallas. (AP Photo/LM Otero) Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton holds a phone for a photo during a campaign event, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, in Springfield, Mass. (AP Photo/Jessica Hill) The Latest: Finland expects asylum applications to surge IDOMENI, Greece (AP) The Latest on Europe's migration crisis (all times local): 6:35 p.m. Finnish police say they repatriated nearly 3,200 migrants last year whose asylum applications were rejected because they weren't entitled to stay in the country and that they expect the numbers to increase more than six-fold in 2016. A woman is helped by other refugees and migrants during a protest in front of an iron fence at the Greek-Macedonian border near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Macedonian police fired tear gas and stun guns Monday as several hundred Iraqi and Syrian refugees, frustrated at days of delays in crossing the Greek-Macedonian border, broke down a gate on a nearby rail crossing. (AP Photo/Giannis Papanikos) National Police Commissioner Seppo Kolehmainen said Monday that police would quicken the process of returning asylum-seekers by increasing personnel to deal with applications after the surge in migrant arrivals began last year. Earlier this month, Helsinki Police flew 103 Iraqi asylum-seekers to Baghdad on the first flight from Finland to Iraq since the influx. Last year, almost 32,500 asylum-seekers arrived in Finland, a near tenfold increase over 2014. Officials have estimated that about two-thirds of them won't qualify for asylum in the Nordic country. ___ 3:05 p.m. Greek authorities have suspended media access to all migrant registration and transit camps in the country, citing overcrowding in the facilities. An immigration policy ministry announcement Monday said no permits would be issued for members of the media to visit mainland or island migrant facilities "until further notice." The ministry said this is due to the large numbers of refugees and migrants at the packed facilities, most of which were only constructed earlier this month. More than 117,000 migrants have reached Greece's eastern Aegean islands from Turkey so far this year compared with 4,500 in January and February 2015. Nearly all head north for Macedonia and the Balkans, but only a few are allowed into Macedonia every day. ___ 3 p.m. Italy's foreign minister is hailing the arrival by plane in Rome from Beirut of 93 Syrian refugees as a model for other countries to follow. The refugees were living in Lebanon after fleeing their homeland's civil war and were granted humanitarian visas. Minister Paolo Gentiloni said transfer by plane involves limited numbers but sends a message to human traffickers profiting off risky sea voyages by desperate refugees trying to reach Europe. Gentiloni said at Rome's main airport Monday that if other countries follow Italy's example, thousands of legitimate asylum-seekers could avoid "terrible sufferings" at the hands of traffickers. Refugee Mirvat Sayegh said Italy is "better for us, it's safe." She lived three years in Lebanon after fleeing Aleppo, Syria. Italian-based Catholic and Protestant churches launched the project. ___ 2 p.m. Austria's deputy chancellor is pushing back against criticism from other EU nations over his country's introduction of caps on asylum-seekers. Reinhold Mitterlehner says the "upper limits are necessary (and) we're going to maintain them." He was referring Monday to the decision to accept no more than 80 requests for asylum a day at Austria's southern border with Slovenia from arriving migrants. The move has led to border slowdowns for migrants across the Balkans. Mitterlehner says Austria continues to seek a solution to the migrant crisis that involves all 28 EU nations. But he told the Austria Press Agency that until that happens "we have to ... create limits." ___ 12:50 p.m. Macedonian police have fired tear gas and stun grenades after a few hundred migrants angry at long delays in entering Macedonia broke a gate on the Greek-Macedonian border. The protesters, who were chanting "Open the border!" and throwing stones at Macedonian police, were repelled. There were no reports of arrests or injuries from Monday's clashes. Police said 500 people earlier pushed their way past Greek police to reach the gate used to let trains through at the border crossing. About 6,500 people are stuck on the Greek side of the border. Some have been there for up to eight days with little food or shelter as Macedonia only accepts a trickle of people every day. ___ 11:55 a.m. French authorities have begun dismantling the sprawling migrant camp in Calais where thousands are hanging out, hoping to make their way to a better life in Britain. One by one, helmeted workers on Monday are pulling down makeshift structures where migrants sleep in the southern sector of the camp. The move comes after a court ruled that the shanties could be destroyed but not the common spaces that have also sprung up, like places of worship, schools and a library. The camp has existed for years in the northern port city of Calais, which has ferries across the English Channel and the Eurotunnel rail to Britain. But now with an estimated 4,000 migrants in the slum, the situation in Calais has become a flashpoint for Europe's immigration crisis, fueling far-right sentiment on both sides of the Channel. The uprooted migrants are being moved to a nearby camp. ___ 11:15 a.m. Thousands of refugees are stuck on Greece's border with Macedonia, overflowing from a packed camp into the surrounding fields, as they wait for Macedonian authorities to let them continue their trek through the Balkans. Police say about 6,500 people are at or near the Idomeni border crossing, with another 500 moved to a hastily erected camp on a small concrete landing strip some 20 kilometers (13 miles) away. Macedonian authorities let 300 Syrians and Iraqis in between 11 p.m. local time Sunday and 4 a.m. Monday, after which the crossing closed. Macedonia has said it will only allow in as many people as Serbia, the next country north on the Balkan migrant corridor, accepts. This has led to a huge bottleneck in Greece, where authorities say more than 22,000 people are stuck. Migrants and refugees stand behind a fence reinforced with razor wire, on the border line with Greece near the southern Macedonia's town of Gevgelija, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. More than 6000 migrants and refugees are stuck in the border after neighbor Macedonia began slowing the number of crossings heading to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Children sit after their arrival with thousands of other refugees and migrants from the eastern Greek islands at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed to not allow. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) Refugees and migrants wait in a queue to receive food distributed by non-governmental organization after their arrival from the eastern Greek islands at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed to not allow. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) A woman uses her cell phone outside an old warehouse after her arrival with other refugees and migrants from the eastern Greek islands at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed to not allow. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) Refugees and migrants sit outside an old warehouse after their arrival from the eastern Greek islands at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed to not allow. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) Refugees, one on a wheelchair, sit next to a makeshift fire near the border crossing in front to a wire fence that separates the Greek side from the Macedonian one at the northern Greek border station of Idomeni, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. More than 6,000 migrants and refugees are stuck in the border after neighbor Macedonia began slowing the number of crossings heading to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) An Iraqi man walks near the border crossing in front to a wire fence that separates the Greek side from the Macedonian one at the northern Greek border station of Idomeni, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. More than 6,000 migrants and refugees are stuck in the border after neighbor Macedonia began slowing the number of crossings heading to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Merikarhu, a Finnish Border Guard vessel part of EU's Frontex forces deployment, patrols on the Aegean Sea, between the eastern Greek Island of Agathonisi and the nearby Turkish shores, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is mired in a full-blown diplomatic dispute with some EU countries over their border slowdowns and closures. Those border moves have left Greece and the migrants caught between an increasingly fractious Europe, where several countries are reluctant to accept more asylum-seekers, and Turkey, which has appeared unwilling or unable to staunch the torrent of people leaving in barely seaworthy smuggling boats for Greek islands. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) Following an uneventful night, Dominique "Mimmo" Vella, 45, of Malta, a member of the search and rescue team from MOAS, Migrant Offshore Aid Station, a Malta-based organization, aimed to rescue migrants on sea, uses his binoculars to scan the sea as he stands on the deck of the rescue vessel patrolling between the eastern Greek Island of Agathonisi and Turkish shores, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is mired in a full-blown diplomatic dispute with some EU countries over their border slowdowns and closures. Those border moves have left Greece and the migrants caught between an increasingly fractious Europe, where several countries are reluctant to accept more asylum-seekers, and Turkey, which has appeared unwilling or unable to staunch the torrent of people leaving in barely seaworthy smuggling boats for Greek islands. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) Following an uneventful night, Dominique "Mimmo" Vella, 45, of Malta, a member of the search and rescue team from MOAS, Migrant Offshore Aid Station, a Malta-based organization, aimed to rescue migrants on sea, uses his binoculars to scan the sea as he stands on the deck of the rescue vessel patrolling between the eastern Greek Island of Agathonisi and Turkish shores, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is mired in a full-blown diplomatic dispute with some EU countries over their border slowdowns and closures. Those border moves have left Greece and the migrants caught between an increasingly fractious Europe, where several countries are reluctant to accept more asylum-seekers, and Turkey, which has appeared unwilling or unable to staunch the torrent of people leaving in barely seaworthy smuggling boats for Greek islands. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) Following an uneventful night, Dominique "Mimmo" Vella, 45, of Malta, a member of the search and rescue team from MOAS, Migrant Offshore Aid Station, a Malta-based organization, aimed to rescue migrants on sea, mans the deck of the rescue vessel patrolling between the eastern Greek Island of Agathonisi and Turkish shores, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is mired in a full-blown diplomatic dispute with some EU countries over their border slowdowns and closures. Those border moves have left Greece and the migrants caught between an increasingly fractious Europe, where several countries are reluctant to accept more asylum-seekers, and Turkey, which has appeared unwilling or unable to staunch the torrent of people leaving in barely seaworthy smuggling boats for Greek islands. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) Merikarhu, a Finnish Border Guard vessel part of EU's Frontex forces deployment, patrols on the Aegean Sea, between the eastern Greek Island of Agathonisi and the nearby Turkish shores, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is mired in a full-blown diplomatic dispute with some EU countries over their border slowdowns and closures. Those border moves have left Greece and the migrants caught between an increasingly fractious Europe, where several countries are reluctant to accept more asylum-seekers, and Turkey, which has appeared unwilling or unable to staunch the torrent of people leaving in barely seaworthy smuggling boats for Greek islands. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) Merikarhu, a Finnish Border Guard vessel part of EU's Frontex forces deployment, patrols on the Aegean Sea, between the eastern Greek Island of Agathonisi and the nearby Turkish shores, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is mired in a full-blown diplomatic dispute with some EU countries over their border slowdowns and closures. Those border moves have left Greece and the migrants caught between an increasingly fractious Europe, where several countries are reluctant to accept more asylum-seekers, and Turkey, which has appeared unwilling or unable to staunch the torrent of people leaving in barely seaworthy smuggling boats for Greek islands. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) Merikarhu, a Finnish Border Guard vessel part of EU's Frontex forces deployment, patrols on the Aegean Sea, between the eastern Greek Island of Agathonisi and the nearby Turkish shores, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is mired in a full-blown diplomatic dispute with some EU countries over their border slowdowns and closures. Those border moves have left Greece and the migrants caught between an increasingly fractious Europe, where several countries are reluctant to accept more asylum-seekers, and Turkey, which has appeared unwilling or unable to staunch the torrent of people leaving in barely seaworthy smuggling boats for Greek islands. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) A Syrian refugee uses a spoon to feed his baby a banana, as they are stranded with thousands of other refugees and migrants at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed to not allow. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) Refugees, one on a wheelchair, sit next to a makeshift fire near the border crossing in front to a wire fence that separates the Greek side from the Macedonian one at the northern Greek border station of Idomeni, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. More than 6,000 migrants and refugees are stuck in the border after neighbor Macedonia began slowing the number of crossings heading to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Children rest on a bench after their arrival with other refugees and migrants from the eastern Greek islands at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed to not allow. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) Vets of '05 Senate truce don't see accord over court pick WASHINGTON (AP) With ideological control of the Supreme Court at stake and senators trading insults, lawmakers who helped the Senate avert a meltdown over judges a decade ago say today's political climate is too toxic for a bipartisan pact to replace the late Justice Antonin Scalia. President Barack Obama has not announced a pick, yet nearly all the Senate's majority Republicans seem dug in, at least for now, against even meeting with his nominee this election year, let alone confirming one. Democrats are adamant about trying to topple the blockade led by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., or trying to make the GOP suffer in November's voting, and the rhetoric reflects the issue's intensity. "Senate Republicans are giving a middle finger to the American people, and they're giving a middle finger to this president," said Sen. Christopher Murphy, D-Conn. In this Tuesday, Feb. 23, 2016 photo, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., center, smiles and speaks to reporters as he is joined by, from right to left, Majority Whip John Cornyn, R-Texas, Sen. John Thune, R-S.D., and Sen. Roger Wicker, R-Miss., following a closed-door policy meeting on Capitol Hill in Washington. Before President Barack Obama has chosen a nominee, nearly all the Senates majority Republicans seem dug in against even meeting that person. (AP Photo/J. Scott Applewhite) With top senators from each party preparing to discuss the standoff with Obama at the White House Tuesday, here's a look at the atmosphere on Capitol Hill as the battle resumes over filling a vacancy that would tip the court's 4-4 balance. But first, a look back at: ___ THE GANG OF 14 In 2005, Senate Democrats were in the minority and blocking final votes on a batch of President George W. Bush's judicial nominees. Though none of the openings were on the Supreme Court, Majority Leader Bill Frist, R-Tenn., was threatening to unilaterally change Senate rules so Democrats couldn't filibuster Bush's selections with procedural delays. With Democratic leaders not backing down, the standoff threatened to end all traces of cooperation between the two parties and derail virtually all legislation. Moderate, rank-and-file senators, seven from each party, formed an informal "Gang of 14." The group had enough votes to force a middle ground no rule changes by Republicans, and no unreasonable filibusters by Democrats. ___ CAN THAT HAPPEN IN 2016? Hard to see it. This year the stakes are far higher, with the highest court's philosophical leanings in play and the issue already a hot-button dispute that could affect this fall's presidential and congressional elections. "The atmosphere is too poisonous on all sides," Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz., one of three remaining Gang of 14 members, said last week. "There was more of an environment of working together." Gone are Gang of 14 stalwarts like the late Robert Byrd, D-W.Va., and John Warner, R-Va., defenders of the chamber's tradition of comity. Also gone are senators who had electoral motivation to compromise, including Democrats from GOP states such as Mary Landrieu of Louisiana and Mark Pryor of Arkansas, plus Republican Lincoln Chafee of Democratic Rhode Island. Chafee eventually became a Democrat. "That attitude has been replaced, in many ways on both sides, by sort of the House's attitude of, 'What can we do to get one more marble than those guys,' " said Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., referencing the typically combative tactics of that chamber. Graham and Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine, are the only other members of the group remaining in the Senate. This time, McCain and Graham are backing the GOP barrier against any Obama pick. Collins favors holding committee hearings on a nominee. Former Sen. Ben Nelson, D-Neb., a Gang of 14 member, cites Republicans' "anti-President Obama mood" and distrust between the two sides but said both parties cause problems. "When one has the halo, the other has the pitchfork," Nelson said. Pryor doesn't rule out a breakthrough but said, "We thought it was a fairly toxic political climate then, but it's worse today, and there aren't as many moderates." ___ THE DEBATE, NOT ALWAYS POLITE One reflection of this struggle's magnitude is the willingness of Senate lions to verbally assault each other in deeply personal ways. Last Wednesday, Senate Minority Leader Harry Reid, D-Nev., targeted Senate Judiciary Committee Chairman Charles Grassley, R-Iowa, after Grassley and the panel's 10 other Republicans signed a letter saying they would hold no hearings on a nominee until the next president makes a selection. On the Senate floor, Reid, 76, accused the 82-year-old Grassley of "ineptness" and suggested he'd be remembered as "the least productive Judiciary chairman in history." Grassley took to the Senate floor to describe "the tremendous damage" Reid inflicted in 2013 when Democrats muscled through Senate rule changes making it easier to confirm lower-court judges. "Childish tantrums aren't appropriate for the Senate," said Grassley. ___ BOTH SIDES ARE JUST REVVING UP The issue has become a staple of Democratic fund-raising pleas. On the other side, the conservative Judicial Crisis Network has run television ads thanking McConnell, Grassley and GOP senators in difficult re-election contests in swing states like New Hampshire and Ohio for saving the nomination for the next president a way of pressing them to keep blocking any Obama pick. Meanwhile, each side's floor strategies played out in miniature last Thursday as Democrats focused on the issue and Republicans tried moving on. Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, chided the GOP for its "outrageous" refusal to consider an Obama nominee and repeated the Democratic refrain, "Do your job." Japan signs pact to supply defense equipment to Philippines MANILA, Philippines (AP) Japan signed an agreement Monday to supply defense equipment to the Philippines, the first such Japanese defense pact in a region where the U.S. allies have been alarmed by China's advance in disputed territories. Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin said the agreement he signed with the Japanese ambassador to Manila, Kazuhide Ishikawa, provides a framework for the supply of defense equipment and technology and will allow the Asian countries to carry out joint research and development projects. Future talks will determine what defense equipment could be supplied, although Gazmin told reporters without elaborating that Japan has initially offered a surveillance aircraft. "This agreement would really substantiate the Philippines and Japan being strategic partners," Gazmin said in remarks during the signing ceremony at the Department of Defense in metropolitan Manila. "Let me stress that what underpins this agreement is not only our desire to enhance our respective defense capabilities but also to contribute to regional peace and stability." Neither side mentioned China's increasingly assertive behavior in disputed areas but that has been a major security concern for both countries, which are close American allies. "It's not directed against any country," Gazmin said of the new defense deal on Saturday. The Philippines has turned to the United States, and now Japan, as it scrambles to modernize its ill-equipped military after territorial disputes with China began escalating four years ago. Japan has a separate territorial spat with China that has flared on and off in the East China Sea. The Philippines' security aspirations dovetail with Japan's nascent steps to be a larger security presence in the region, where memories remain of its brutal World War II invasions. The two countries have openly brought their security and political ties to new levels, including by holding joint naval search and rescue drills last year. Philippine President Benigno Aquino III and Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe have swapped visits and vowed to intensify defense cooperation, sparking talks about a possible security pact that will allow Japanese forces to hold larger drills with Filipino troops in the Philippines. The Philippines has signed such visiting forces accords with the United States and Australia. Last year, Japan's parliament approved contentious legislation that enhances the role of the country's military by loosening post-World War II constraints. Its military can now defend its allies even when the country isn't under attack and work more closely with other nations. Japan has forged similar pacts with the U.S. and Australia, but the Philippines is the first Southeast Asian country to have such a defense deal with Tokyo, Gazmin said. Europe's crisis worsens: Migrants face razor wire, tear gas IDOMENI, Greece (AP) Pressed against coils of razor wire and shouting "Help us!," refugees and migrants at Greece's northern border were pushed back by Macedonian police using tear gas and stun grenades, as authorities here raced to build more camps to shield the escalating number of stranded people from winter. A top European Union official prepared to visit the region Tuesday to try and ease the crisis that produced more scenes of chaos: Syrian and Iraqi refugees and others forced their way through part of a Macedonian border fence, some clutching infants or struggling to free duffel bags caught in the razor-wire. They were met by Macedonian riot police. Volunteer doctors said at least 22 migrants, including 12 children, were treated for breathing difficulties and cuts. Authorities in Macedonia said one policeman was injured and that dozens of special forces officers were flown in by helicopter to help quell a refugee protest. A man helps children to run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of the refugees and migrants who tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle.(AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) "Tragically, there seems to be more willingness among European countries to coordinate blocking borders than to provide refugees and asylum-seekers with protection and basic services," said Giorgos Kosmopoulos, head of Amnesty International in Greece. Some 7,000 migrants, mostly from Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, are crammed into a tiny camp at the Greek border village of Idomeni, and hundreds more are arriving daily. The Greek army completed more temporary shelters in northern Greece over the weekend, and at the government's request, local authorities in central Greece, opened indoor stadiums, conference centers, and hotels that have gone out of business to house migrants, while the Education Ministry called on school children to join the effort with donation drives. "Of course Greece over the next one or two months will do what it can to help these people. But it must be made clear that the burden of this crisis must be distributed in Europe," Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras said in an interview with private Star television. The border bottleneck began ten days ago, when Austria and four ex-Yugoslav countries on the Balkan migrant route north into Western Europe cut border access for migrants to a trickle. Donald Tusk, the European Council President, begins of tour of those countries Tuesday, starting in Vienna, which has been strongly criticized by other EU nations for its caps on asylum-seekers, and ending Thursday in Athens. Tusk is aiming to prepare for a meeting of leaders from the EU and Turkey on March 7, where the key topic will be trying to halt the flow of migrants from Turkey to Greece. The number of migrants stranded in Greece topped 25,000 Sunday, according to government estimates. Thousands have been sleeping outside in parks and fields and even along highways, as refugee shelters quickly overflowed. "Very many people were forced to sleep in the open, without tents, wrapped in blankets," said 45-year-old Syrian refugee Nidal Jojack, who has been camped out with her family at Idomeni for three days. "It was very cold. The borders are effectively closed, it's a huge problem. To get food, we have to wait in very long queues." Jojack said she hopes to reach Germany, where her 18-year-old son has already arrived. Despite receiving the bulk of the refugees seeking the safety of Europe, Germany has opposed unilateral border restrictions and continued to back an EU-wide solution for the migrant crisis. German Chancellor Angela Merkel is resisting calls at home and elsewhere in Europe for limits on refugees like Austria. "We can't do this in such a way that we simply abandon Greece," she told public ARD television. "This is exactly what I fear: When one country defines its limit, another must suffer. That is not my Europe." At next Monday's summit, EU leaders "will discuss how we can restore the (passport-free) Schengen system step by step with Greece," Merkel said. But Austria's deputy chancellor, Reinhold Mitterlehner in a sign of continued diplomatic tensions declared Monday that the refugee restrictions "are necessary (and) we're going to maintain them." Wolf Piccoli, head of research the global advisory firm Teneo Intelligence, said the EU was making a "risky bet" with its strategy on migration. "The EU is betting on incremental steps, hoping that the backlog will deter potential migrants before tensions in Greece raise concerns over the country's institutions," he said. So far, border closures have not stopped migrants from coming. Greek authorities say over 1,800 people a day have reached Greece's islands from Turkey in February, slightly down from 2,175 a day in January. Accidents are frequent as dozens cram into unseaworthy boats provided for a high price by smuggling gangs. Ninety-six people have drowned in Greek waters alone so far this year, with another 34 missing at sea. Struggling to cope with the crisis, Greece's government has issued a temporary ban on journalists visiting migrant camps and called opposition party leaders to an emergency meeting Friday with Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras. ___ Gatopoulos reported from Athens. Nicholas Paphitis in Athens, Konstantin Testorides in Skopje, Macedonia and Geir Moulson in Berlin contributed. ___ Follow Kantouris at http://www.twitter.com/CostasKantouris and Gatopoulos at http://www.twitter.com/dgatopoulos A Syrian young woman leans on the door through which refugees cross for Macedonia in the Greek border station of Idomeni, Sunday Feb. 28, 2016. More than 5500 refugees and migrants are stuck at the Greek-Macedonian border. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) A girl with a doll runs away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of the refugees and migrants who tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle.(AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) A woman carries a child on the Greek side of the border as they run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of the refugees and migrants who tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle.(AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) People run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of the refugees and migrants who tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle.(AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Refugees run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of the refugees and migrants who tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle.(AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Refugees run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of the refugees and migrants who tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle.(AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) People on the Greek side of the border as they run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of the refugees and migrants who tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle.(AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Refugees run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of the refugees and migrants who tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle.(AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Stranded refugees and migrants break an iron fence and throw stones from the Greek side of the border as Macedonian policemen use tear gas, near the southern Macedonian town of Gevgelija, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Macedonia is restricting the entry of refugees to match the number of those leaving the country, allowing in only refugees from Syria and Iraq, in response to bottlenecks further up along the Balkans migrant route. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski) Stranded refugees and migrants shout slogans and try to break an iron fence from the Greek side of the border as Macedonian policemen use their shields, near the southern Macedonian town of Gevgelija, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Macedonia is restricting the entry of refugees to match the number of those leaving the country, allowing in only refugees from Syria and Iraq, in response to bottlenecks further up along the Balkans migrant route. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski) Stranded refugees and migrants break an iron fence and throw stones from the Greek side of the border as Macedonian policemen push them back, near the southern Macedonian town of Gevgelija, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Macedonia is restricting the entry of refugees to match the number of those leaving the country, allowing in only refugees from Syria and Iraq, in response to bottlenecks further up along the Balkans migrant route. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski) Refugees and migrants try to break an iron fence from the Greek side of the border as Macedonian police stand guard, near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle. (AP Photo/Giannis Papanikos) In this photo taken from the Macedonian side stranded refugees and migrants in the northern Greek village of Idomeni approach the Greek-Macedonian border as they try to enter Macedonia on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Macedonia is restricting the entry of refugees to match the number of those leaving the country, allowing in only refugees from Syria and Iraq, in response to bottlenecks further up along the Balkans migrant route. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski) Stranded refugees and migrants confront Macedonian police, trying to break through the wire fence from the Greek side of the border with Macedonia, near southern Macedonia's town of Gevgelija, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Macedonia is restricting the entry of refugees to match the number of those leaving the country, allowing in only refugees from Syria and Iraq, in response to bottlenecks further up along the Balkans migrant route. (AP Photo/Boris Grdanoski) Refugees and migrants break through the Greek police cordon as they try to approach the Greek-Macedonian border, near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Macedonian police fired tear gas and stun guns Monday as several hundred Iraqi and Syrian refugees, frustrated at days of delays in crossing the Greek-Macedonian border, broke down a gate on a nearby rail crossing. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Refugees and migrants try to broke an iron fence from the Greek side of the border as Macedonian police stand guard, near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Macedonian police fired tear gas and stun guns Monday as several hundred Iraqi and Syrian refugees, frustrated at days of delays in crossing the Greek-Macedonian border, broke down a gate on a nearby rail crossing. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Refugees and migrants try to break an iron fence from the Greek side of the border as Macedonian police stand guard, near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle. (AP Photo/Giannis Papanikos) Refugees and migrants break through the Greek police cordon as they try to approach the Greek-Macedonian border, near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Macedonian police fired tear gas and stun guns Monday as several hundred Iraqi and Syrian refugees, frustrated at days of delays in crossing the Greek-Macedonian border, broke down a gate on a nearby rail crossing. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) A woman holds her children on the Greek side of the border as they run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of the refugees and migrants who tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle. (AP Photo/Giannis Papanikos) A man on the Greek side of the border runs away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of the refugees and migrants who tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. No arrests or injuries were reported. About 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north, but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle. (AP Photo/Giannis Papanikos) Afghan migrants arrive at a warehouse, which is being used as a shelter for refugees and migrants at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) A Syrian young woman leans on the door through which refugees cross for Macedonia in the Greek border station of Idomeni, Sunday Feb. 28, 2016. More than 5500 refugees and migrants are stuck at the Greek-Macedonian border. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Migrants and refugees stand behind a fence reinforced with razor wire, on the border line with Greece near the southern Macedonia's town of Gevgelija, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. More than 6000 migrants and refugees are stuck in the border after neighbor Macedonia began slowing the number of crossings heading to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Children sit after their arrival with thousands of other refugees and migrants from the eastern Greek islands at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed to not allow. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) Refugees and migrants wait in a queue to receive food distributed by non-governmental organization after their arrival from the eastern Greek islands at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed to not allow. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) A woman uses her cell phone outside an old warehouse after her arrival with other refugees and migrants from the eastern Greek islands at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed to not allow. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) Refugees and migrants sit outside an old warehouse after their arrival from the eastern Greek islands at the Athens' port of Piraeus, on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is fast becoming the "warehouse of human beings" that its government has vowed to not allow. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey. (AP Photo/Thanassis Stavrakis) Refugees, one on a wheelchair, sit next to a makeshift fire near the border crossing in front to a wire fence that separates the Greek side from the Macedonian one at the northern Greek border station of Idomeni, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. More than 6,000 migrants and refugees are stuck in the border after neighbor Macedonia began slowing the number of crossings heading to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) An Iraqi man walks near the border crossing in front to a wire fence that separates the Greek side from the Macedonian one at the northern Greek border station of Idomeni, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. More than 6,000 migrants and refugees are stuck in the border after neighbor Macedonia began slowing the number of crossings heading to central and northern Europe. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Merikarhu, a Finnish Border Guard vessel part of EU's Frontex forces deployment, patrols on the Aegean Sea, between the eastern Greek Island of Agathonisi and the nearby Turkish shores, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is mired in a full-blown diplomatic dispute with some EU countries over their border slowdowns and closures. Those border moves have left Greece and the migrants caught between an increasingly fractious Europe, where several countries are reluctant to accept more asylum-seekers, and Turkey, which has appeared unwilling or unable to staunch the torrent of people leaving in barely seaworthy smuggling boats for Greek islands. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) Following an uneventful night, Dominique "Mimmo" Vella, 45, of Malta, a member of the search and rescue team from MOAS, Migrant Offshore Aid Station, a Malta-based organization, aimed to rescue migrants on sea, uses his binoculars to scan the sea as he stands on the deck of the rescue vessel patrolling between the eastern Greek Island of Agathonisi and Turkish shores, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Greece is mired in a full-blown diplomatic dispute with some EU countries over their border slowdowns and closures. Those border moves have left Greece and the migrants caught between an increasingly fractious Europe, where several countries are reluctant to accept more asylum-seekers, and Turkey, which has appeared unwilling or unable to staunch the torrent of people leaving in barely seaworthy smuggling boats for Greek islands. (AP Photo/Lefteris Pitarakis) A Syrian refugee smokes as he waits with other to be allowed to cross the Greek-Macedonian border, at the Greek border station of Idomeni, Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016. More than 5500 refugees and migrants are stuck in the Greek-Macedonian border. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) Refugees stand in front of a wire fence that separates Greece and Macedonia, at the Greek village of Idomeni, Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016. More than 5500 refugees and migrants are stuck in the Greek-Macedonian border. (AP Photo/Petros Giannakouris) A migrant man carries blankets, in Athens, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, at the Victoria Square, where most newly-landed migrants head after reaching the Greek capital from the Aegean Sea islands. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey.(AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda) A migrant boy presses his nose against the back window of a bus, in Athens, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, at the Victoria Square, where most newly-landed migrants head after reaching the Greek capital from the Aegean Sea islands. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey.(AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda) A boy of a migrant family sleeps on the pavement, in Athens, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, at the Victoria Square, where most newly-landed migrants head after reaching the Greek capital from the Aegean Sea islands. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey.(AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda) Migrants carry belongings, in Athens, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, at the Victoria Square, where most newly-landed migrants head after reaching the Greek capital from the Aegean Sea islands. Border restrictions further north in the Balkans have left thousands of refugees and other migrants stranded in a country that is still wracked by its own financial crisis and unable to seal its lengthy sea border with Turkey.(AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda) Refugees and migrants try to break an iron fence from the Greek side of the border as Macedonian police stand guard, near the northern Greek village of Idomeni on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Macedonian police fired tear gas and stun guns Monday as several hundred Iraqi and Syrian refugees, frustrated at days of delays in crossing the Greek-Macedonian border, broke down a gate on a nearby rail crossing. (AP Photo/Giannis Papanikos) Fiery backlash as Calais migrant camp is dismantled CALAIS, France (AP) Makeshift huts went up in flames on Monday in an angry backlash as workers, guarded by scores of French police, began pulling down tents and shelters in the sprawling migrant camp in Calais. Police lobbed tear gas in a brief clash with pro-migrant activists and others throwing projectiles at officers forming a security cordon to protect the tear-down operation. There were no reports of injuries. At least three people were arrested, authorities said. Migrants run past burning tents in a makeshift camp near Calais, France, Monday Feb. 29, 2016. French authorities have begun dismantling part of the sprawling camp locally referred to as "the jungle" where thousands are hanging out, hoping to make their way to a better life in Britain. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay) As tension mounted, the fragile structures in a southern part of the camp came down one by one and heavy equipment was moved in to scoop up the rubble and junk left behind by weary migrants dreaming of a new life in Britain. Three makeshift homes went up in flames, the fires set either by upset migrants or pro-migrant activists, according to Gilles Debove of the Unite SGP Police FO union, who acts as a police spokesman. A second larger fire, apparently spread by wind, destroyed a mass of shelters. At least three people described as pro-migrant activists from the No Borders group were arrested, Debove said. The prefecture said the arrests were made for pelting police with stones and setting fires. The No Borders group, which wants all borders removed, is often blamed by authorities for fanning tensions. A flashpoint on the edge of the Channel, the camp sprang up less than a year ago in the port city, which has both ferries and the Eurotunnel rail route to Britain. It has grown explosively in past months amid Europe's migrant crisis, fueling far-right sentiment in both Britain and France. About 4,000 people are estimated to live in the camp down from 6,000 in December. Calais has lived with migrants in its midst for years, but the current camp on the city's edge sprang up around a day center opened last April by the state and after small camps inside the city were bulldozed. The dismantling of the dense southern portion of the current camp would be the largest such operation the city has known. Authorities say 800-1,000 migrants are concerned by the evictions. Humanitarian groups contend more than 3,000 are affected. French authorities are offering to relocate uprooted migrants into heated containers installed last month nearby, or at centers around France where they can decide whether to apply for asylum. Many have resisted the move, fearing it will hurt their chances of reaching Britain, and migrant advocates say there isn't enough space in the new area. Two buses carrying 43 migrants left on Friday for Bordeaux and Montpellier, the prefecture said. Scores of riot police stood guard, keeping journalists and volunteers out as helmeted workers tackled the shelters one by one. Prefect Fabienne Buccio, who had ordered the camp evacuated and dismantled earlier this month, showed up as the operation began. Her office decried "intimidation" tactics by some activists who she said were manipulating migrants into refusing to accept government offers of shelter. "Really three houses out of four I mean three huts out of four, or three tents out of four were already totally abandoned with a lot of garbage inside," she said. Migrants, she said, "had the time necessary to gather their belongings. The rest was good enough to throw away." However, cameras zooming into huts captured scenes of daily life fully intact. The start of what is expected to be a weeks-long operation came four days after a court ruled that shelters could come down but not common areas like houses of worship, a school, a women's center and library, much of it built with the help of French and British volunteers appalled by conditions in the makeshift camp. Humanitarian groups and migrants who had contested the state decision to level the most populous sector of the camp appealed the ruling on Friday with the Council of State, but any decision is likely to take weeks or months, long after the camp is gone. ___ Elaine Ganley reported from Paris. Migrants point at burning tents in a makeshift camp near Calais, France, Monday Feb. 29, 2016. Under the eye of hundreds of riot police, workers began pulling down tents and makeshift shelters in the sprawling camp in Calais on Monday, dismantling the fragile structures that have served as temporary homes for migrants hoping to make their way to a better life in Britain. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay) Migrants run past burning tents in a makeshift camp near Calais, France, Monday Feb. 29, 2016. Under the eye of hundreds of riot police, workers began pulling down tents and makeshift shelters in the sprawling camp in Calais on Monday, dismantling the fragile structures that have served as temporary homes for migrants hoping to make their way to a better life in Britain. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay) A man throws water on burning tents in a makeshift camp near Calais, France, Monday Feb. 29, 2016. Under the eye of hundreds of riot police, workers began pulling down tents and makeshift shelters in the sprawling camp in Calais on Monday, dismantling the fragile structures that have served as temporary homes for migrants hoping to make their way to a better life in Britain. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay) People run past a barricade set in front of a French riot police truck in a makeshift camp near Calais, France, Monday Feb. 29, 2016. Under the eye of hundreds of riot police, workers began pulling down tents and makeshift shelters in the sprawling camp in Calais on Monday, dismantling the fragile structures that have served as temporary homes for migrants hoping to make their way to a better life in Britain. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay) A migrant uses a fire extinguisher on a group of burning tents in a makeshift camp near Calais, France, Monday Feb. 29, 2016. Under the eye of hundreds of riot police, workers began pulling down tents and makeshift shelters in the sprawling camp in Calais on Monday, dismantling the fragile structures that have served as temporary homes for migrants hoping to make their way to a better life in Britain. (AP Photo/Jerome Delay) Brother in pastor's shooting sued him over money in 2011 DAYTON, Ohio (AP) The brother being held in the fatal shooting of a southwest Ohio pastor had sued the minister over an inheritance dispute five year ago, court records show. The suspect also has a history of violence and once shot his nephew in the arm, a newspaper reported. Daniel Gregory Schooler, who was arrested in the shooting that occurred at the pastor's church office as Sunday services were ending, was in jail Monday. In this January 2011 photo, the Rev. William B. Schooler poses for a photo in Dayton, Ohio. The pastor with deep roots in the Dayton community was shot and killed at his church Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, and police say they expect to charge his brother, Daniel Gregory Schooler, in the slaying on Monday. (Chris Stewart/Dayton Daily News via AP) LOCAL PRINT OUT; LOCAL TELEVISION OUT; WKEF-TV OUT; WRGT-TV OUT; WDTN-TV OUT; MANDATORY CREDIT Authorities have said they expect to charge Schooler and are planning to meet Tuesday to discuss those options. The Rev. William B. Schooler, 70, was fatally shot at his church, St. Peter's Missionary Baptist. Police said they did not know Sunday what led to the shooting, but said the pastor was the only intended victim. Jail records did not list an attorney for Schooler. The younger brother sued the pastor and other church leaders in 2001, claiming he was owed from the real estate value of the church. Their father had been a minister at the church until he died in 1973, according to court records. Daniel Schooler said in his lawsuit that the title to the church was not properly transferred and that he should receive a part of its value. A court ruled against him in 2011. The brothers' niece, Joyce Napier, told the Dayton Daily News that Daniel Schooler has a history of mental illness. Sheriff's records said he shot his nephew in the arm in 2001, but the victim did not want to press charges, the newspaper reported. Daniel Schooler also was convicted of felonious assault with a deadly weapon and spent two years in prison in the attack of a woman in 2002, the newspaper said. Schooler had assaulted people in the past and had a tendency to be violent when he does not take his medication, a police report from 2008 said. His brother was well-known. William Schooler was a past interim president of the Dayton school board and current president of the local Baptist ministers union. He taught in the Dayton school district in the 1970s and served as a principal in the Jefferson Township district for nearly two decades, according to the Daily News. He also held other positons with community organizations and local governments, including serving as a certified city of Dayton mediator. "He had deep roots in the community," a friend, Ronnie Moreland, told the newspaper. ___ Information from: Dayton Daily News, http://www.daytondailynews.com Lumber Liquidators 4Q losses much greater than expected TOANO, Va. (AP) Lumber Liquidators swung to a fourth-quarter loss that was more than three times larger than expected as fallout over the safety of some of its products continues to rattle the embattled flooring manufacturer. Its shares dropped more than 4 percent in afternoon trading Monday. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention said last week that people exposed to certain types of Lumber Liquidators' laminate flooring were three times more likely to get cancer than the agency had previously predicted. FILE - In this Monday, Feb. 1, 2016, file photo, specialist Anthony Rinaldi works on the trading floor of the New York Stock Exchange, adjacent to the post that handles Lumber Liquidators. On Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, Lumber Liquidators reports financial results. (AP Photo/Richard Drew, File) The company stopped selling the Chinese-made laminate floors in May, a few months after CBS news show "60 Minutes" reported that those floors contain high levels of formaldehyde. Lumber Liquidators also began providing customers with free air quality tests. Lumber Liquidators agreed to pay more than $13 million earlier this month for illegally importing hardwood flooring after the company pleaded guilty to environmental crimes last year. Lumber Liquidators pleaded guilty to environmental crimes in October. For the period ended Dec. 31, the hardwood flooring retailer lost $19.8 million, or 73 cents per share, which far exceeded the per-share loss of 23 cents that Wall Street had expected, according to a survey by Zacks Investment Research. The company last year earned $17.3 million, or 64 cents per share, during the same quarter. Revenue came in at $234.8 million, also well below the $254.5 million analysts were expecting. Sales at stores open at least a year dropped 17.2 percent. That's key gauge of a retailer's health because it excludes the volatility associated with locations recently opened or closed. The Toano, Virginia, company said Monday it believes sales continue to be hurt by questions about the quality of products imported from China. For the full year, Lumber Liquidators Holdings Inc. lost $2.08 per share on revenue of $978.8 million. The company also announced that Dennis Knowles will serves as chief operating officer, effective Tuesday. He will be responsible for the organization of Lumber Liquidators' stores and related operations. Knowles recently served as chief store operations officer at Lowe's Cos. CEO Robert Lynch resigned in May and late last year, the company named Thomas Sullivan, as acting CEO. Lumber Liquidators shares dropped 48 cents, or 4.3 percent, to $10.63 in afternoon trading Monday. Its shares have dropped almost 80 percent in the last 12 months. _____ Elements of this story were generated by Automated Insights (http://automatedinsights.com/ap) using data from Zacks Investment Research. Access a Zacks stock report on LL at http://www.zacks.com/ap/LL _____ Aquino leads rite to rebury president at heroes cemetery MANILA, Philippines (AP) President Benigno Aquino III led ceremonies Monday to transfer the remains of a long-dead president to a Philippine heroes' cemetery where he has steadfastly refused to allow the burial of dictator Ferdinand Marcos. The national tribute included a 21-gun salute and a funeral motorcade for President Elpidio Quirino, whose remains were reinterred from a Manila graveyard to the cemetery reserved for presidents, war veterans, statesmen and national artists. Quirino was president from 1948 to 1953 and oversaw Philippine reconstruction after World War II. He died 60 years ago and is the third president to be buried in the heroes' cemetery, which opened in the 1940s as a burial site for Filipino war dead. Philippine President Benigno Aquino III, center, salutes in front of the casket containing the urn of former President Elpidio Quirino during the transfer of his remains at the Heroes' Cemetery in suburban Taguig city, east of Manila, Philippines, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Quirino's ashes were exhumed from the Manila South Cemetery and reinterred at the Heroes' Cemetery to commemorate his 125th birth anniversary and to coincide with his 60th death anniversary. Quirino is the sixth President of the Philippines from 1948 to 1953. (AP Photo/Aaron Favila) Aquino has refused to allow the burial there of Marcos, who was overthrown in a 1986 "people power" revolt after a two-decade reign tarnished by allegations of massive human rights violations and plunder. Marcos lived in exile with his wife, Imelda, and children in Hawaii, where he died in 1989. His remains were later returned to his northern Philippine hometown of Batac, where his glass coffin has become a tourist attraction. Near the end of Marcos's reign, Aquino's father, a former opposition senator, was assassinated while under military custody after arriving at Manila's international airport. The current leader's mother, Corazon Aquino, then helped lead the 1986 revolution that ousted Marcos and succeeded him. When asked by The Associated Press in 2011 whether he would allow Marcos's burial at the heroes' cemetery, Aquino replied: "Not during my watch." North Korea puts tearful detained American before cameras PYONGYANG, North Korea (AP) North Korea presented a detained American student before the media on Monday in Pyongyang, where he tearfully apologized for attempting to steal a political banner at the behest, he said, of a member of a church back home who wanted it as a "trophy" from a staff-only section of the hotel where he had been staying. North Korea announced in late January it had arrested Otto Warmbier, a 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. It said that after entering the country as a tourist he committed an anti-state crime with "the tacit connivance of the U.S. government and under its manipulation." No details of what kind of charges or punishment Warmbier faces were immediately released. American student Otto Warmbier speaks as Warmbier is presented to reporters Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, in Pyongyang, North Korea. North Korea announced late last month that it had arrested the 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. (AP Photo/Kim Kwang Hyon) According to Warmbier's statement Monday, he wanted the banner with a political slogan on it as a trophy for the church member, who was the mother of a friend. In previous cases, people who have been detained in North Korea and made a public confession often recant those statements after their release. He was arrested while visiting the country with Young Pioneer Tours, an agency specializing in travel to North Korea, which is strongly discouraged by the U.S. State Department. He had been staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, which is located on an island in a river that runs through Pyongyang, the capital. It is common for sections of tourist hotels to be reserved for North Korean staff and off-limits to foreigners. In his comments, Warmbier said he was offered a used car worth $10,000 by a member of the church. He said the church member told him the slogan would be hung on its wall as a trophy. He also said he was told that if he was detained and didn't return, $200,000 would be paid to his mother in the form of a charitable donation. Warmbier identified the church as the Friendship United Methodist Church, which is in his hometown, Wyoming, Ohio. Meshach Kanyion, pastor of the church, would not confirm whether he knows Warmbier or if he is a church member. "I don't have any comment at this time," he told The Associated Press. Warmbier's parents said they had not heard from their son since his arrest and were greatly relieved to finally see a picture of him. "You can imagine how deeply worried we were and what a traumatic experience this has been for us," Warmbier's father, Fred Warmbier, said in a statement provided by the University of Virginia. "I hope the fact that he has conveyed his sincere apology for anything that he may have done wrong will now make it possible for the (North Korean) authorities to allow him to return home," he said. The university said it had no immediate comment other than that it was in close contact with Warmbier's family. Warmbier told reporters in Pyongyang that he had also been encouraged in his act by the university's "Z Society," which he said he was trying to join. The magazine of the university's alumni association describes the Z Society as a "semi-secret ring society" that was founded in 1892 and conducts philanthropy, puts on honorary dinners and grants academic awards. Warmbier said he accepted the offer of money because his family is "suffering from very severe financial difficulties." "I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money," he said, adding that if he ever mentioned the involvement of the church, "no payments would come." North Korea regularly accuses Washington and Seoul of sending spies to overthrow its government to enable the U.S.-backed South Korean government to control the Korean Peninsula. U.S. tourism to North Korea is legal and virtually all Americans who make the journey return home without incident. Even so, the State Department has repeatedly warned against travel to the North. Visitors, especially those from America, who break the country's sometimes murky rules risk detention, arrest and possible jail sentences. Young Pioneer describes itself on its website as providing "budget tours to destinations your mother would rather you stayed away from." The agency, based in China, also has tours to Iran, Cuba, Turkmenistan, Iraq and other former Soviet countries. After Warmbier's detention, it stressed in a news release that he was the first of the 7,000 people it has taken to North Korea over the past eight years to face arrest. "Despite what you may hear, North Korea is probably one of the safest places on Earth to visit," it says on its website. In the past, North Korea has held out until senior U.S. officials or statesmen came to personally bail out detainees, all the way up to former President Bill Clinton, whose visit in 2009 secured the freedom of American journalists Euna Lee and Laura Ling. Both had crossed North Korea's border from China illegally. It took a visit in November 2014 by U.S. spy chief James Clapper to bring home Matthew Miller, who had ripped up his visa when entering the country, and Korean-American missionary Kenneth Bae, who had been incarcerated since November 2012. Jeffrey Fowle, another U.S. tourist from Ohio detained for six months at about the same time as Miller, was released just before that and sent home on a U.S. government plane. He left a Bible in a local club hoping a North Korean would find it, which is considered a criminal offense in North Korea. ___ Talmadge, the AP's Pyongyang bureau chief, reported from Tokyo. Associated Press writers Lisa Cornwell in Cincinnati, Ohio, and Sarah Brumfield in Washington, D.C., contributed to this report. American student Otto Warmbier, right, bows as Warmbier is presented to the reporters on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, in Pyongyang, North Korea. North Korea announced late last month that it had arrested the 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. (AP Photo/Kim Kwang Hyon) American student Otto Warmbier, center, arrives at the People's Cultural House, as Warmbier is presented to reporters Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, in Pyongyang, North Korea. North Korea announced late last month that it had arrested the 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. (AP Photo/Kim Kwang Hyon) Washington gunman who killed 4 had lengthy criminal history SEATTLE (AP) A man who shot three family members, a neighbor and then himself in rural Washington state had an extensive criminal history, including felony charges that would have made it illegal for him to possess firearms. David Wayne Campbell, 51, had misdemeanor and felony convictions in Pennsylvania dating to 1996, according to an Associated Press review of court records. He was charged with multiple crimes, mostly related to bad checks, stolen property and forgery. He served time in prison starting in 2000 on a charge of theft by deception. It was not immediately clear when he moved from the East Coast to Washington state. Mason County Sheriff's Chief Criminal Deputies Russ Osterhout, left, and Ryan Spurling, right, stand on a road near the scene of a fatal shooting Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, near Belfair, Wash. A gunman who killed four people in rural Washington state called an officer he previously encountered to say he shot his family, leading to an hours long standoff at a home Friday that ended with his suicide, authorities said. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) Mason County sheriff's Chief Deputy Ryan Spurling said Monday that he heard about Campbell's criminal history but had not yet seen the records. Agents with the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives went to the home in a remote, wooded area across the Puget Sound from Seattle where Campbell lived with his wife and her adopted children and were conducting an investigation into Campbell's firearms, Spurling said. Campbell had a handgun and a "long gun," but Spurling didn't know the model and didn't know how he acquired the firearms, given his previous convictions. Authorities are focusing on "taking care of the living victim," Spurling said. A 12-year-old girl found Friday on the property near Belfair was taken to the hospital for an evaluation and is now in the custody of child welfare officials, he said. Her relation to the other victims has not been released. "She may or may not be able to tell us what happened," Spurling said. Campbell called a sheriff's office supervisor Friday to say he had shot four people and was suicidal. After hours of negotiations, police tried to flush Campbell out of the house with tear gas, but when he stepped outside, he shot himself in the head, officials said. Authorities searched the buildings on the property and found the bodies of Campbell's wife, Lana J. Carlson, 49, and her two adopted sons, Quinn, 16, and Tory, 18. Carlson adopted the boys from Kazakhstan during a previous marriage, authorities said Monday. Also killed and found in a chicken coop was neighbor Donna Reed, 68, the coroner said. Reed was a widow who lived alone "with her cats," another neighbor, Jack Pigott, told The Associated Press. Pigott said Campbell used to keep her supplied with cigarettes. Pigott said he heard the sound of gunshots coming from the direction of the Campbell house Thursday night, but he wasn't concerned because they often practiced target shooting. Autopsies are underway so authorities don't yet have the time of death for the victims, Spurling said. Campbell's most recent conviction was nearly 16 years ago. On Aug. 15, 2000, he was charged with 18 counts: six counts each of theft by deception, receiving stolen property and bad checks. He pleaded guilty to one theft charge and the other counts were dismissed. He was sentenced to two to five years in prison, records show. Campbell also faced similar charges in 1996 and 1997. In one 1996 case, he was charged with 31 counts, including 12 felony forgery charges. He pleaded guilty to six of those charges, and the others were dismissed. Messages seeking comment from the prosecutor and lawyer involved in those cases were not immediately returned. ___ Follow Martha Bellisle at https://twitter.com/marthabellisle . Investigators are seen through trees as they photographs the scene of a fatal shooting Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, near Belfair, Wash. A gunman who killed four people in rural Washington state called an officer he previously encountered to say he shot his family, leading to an hours long standoff at a home Friday that ended with his suicide, authorities said. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) A Mason County Sheriff Dept. SWAT vehicle drives a few miles from the scene of a fatal shooting Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, near Belfair, Wash. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) A Washington State Patrol detective is seen through trees as he works the scene of a fatal shooting Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, near Belfair, Wash. A gunman who killed four people in rural Washington state called an officer he previously encountered to say he shot his family, leading to an hours long standoff at a home Friday that ended with his suicide, authorities said. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) Mason County Sheriff's Chief Criminal Deputy Ryan Spurling, right, escorts Adeline Peebles, left, and a child away from the scene of a fatal shooting Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, near Belfair, Wash. Peebles said she was a friend of the people involved in the shooting. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren) CAN THEY DO THAT? Trump favors torture that's illegal WASHINGTON (AP) Tough talk about torture is a guaranteed applause line for Donald Trump on the GOP presidential stump. Trump has repeatedly advocated waterboarding, an enhanced interrogation technique that simulates the feeling of drowning. "In the Middle East, we have people chopping the heads off Christians. ... I would bring back waterboarding and I'd bring back a hell of a lot worse than waterboarding," he said to applause in a recent debate, without ever specifying what "a lot worse" would entail. FILE - In this Feb. 27, 2016 file photo, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump pauses during while speaking at a rally in Millington, Tenn. Tough talk about torture is a guaranteed applause line for Donald Trump on the GOP presidential stump. Trump has repeatedly advocated waterboarding, an enhanced interrogation technique that simulates the feeling of drowning. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik, File) "I don't think we go far enough," he said, drawing loud clapping at a rally last week in Las Vegas. "We don't go far enough," he repeated, prompting now-thundering applause and chants of "USA! USA!" Trouble is, waterboarding and "a lot worse" interrogation techniques are illegal. To bring it back, Trump would have to get Congress to repeal the law that prohibits it. That could be an uphill battle. Last June, Republicans joined all 44 Senate Democrats in voting 78-21 to reaffirm a ban on harsh interrogation techniques. That vote came just months after a Senate intelligence committee report denounced brutal interrogation methods as ineffective. "In general, what I've taken away from our practices and what the research shows is that the rapport-based techniques that we operate under and focus on are shown to elicit greater detail in a quicker fashion," said Frazier Thompson, director of the High-Value Detainee Interrogation Group, a secretive team of interrogators from the FBI, Defense Department, the CIA and other intelligence agencies that interrogates top suspects believed linked to plots against the U.S. or its allies. "Every individual is different and every situation is different," Thompson said, adding that it's important to know where the suspect is emotionally and intellectually so that an interrogator with the right skill set can build rapport and elicit intelligence. Trump, however, told voters in Bluffton, South Carolina, simply that, "torture works." The Army Field Manual specifically bans the military from using so-called enhanced interrogation techniques, including waterboarding. However the CIA used waterboarding after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, and other methods that are illegal under domestic or international law. Those included some physical contact such as slapping and slamming an inmate and psychological torture. One inmate at a secret CIA "black site" died of exposure, according to the Senate panel's report. In 2009, Obama issued an executive order saying all U.S. government personnel and contractors not just those in the military are prohibited from using any interrogation techniques that aren't in the Army Field Manual. Last year, Democratic Sen. Dianne Feinstein of California and Republican Sen. John McCain of Arizona introduced an amendment to the 2016 defense policy bill that essentially put the executive order into law. Feinstein said it was important because a future president could lift Obama's executive order. This year, after hearing Trump and other GOP presidential candidates talk favorably about torture, McCain weighed in. McCain was shot down over North Vietnam in 1967, held as a prisoner of war in Hanoi and tortured before his captors released him six years later. "Given the loose talk on the campaign trail about reviving waterboarding and other inhumane interrogation techniques, it is important to remember the facts," McCain said. "These forms of torture not only failed their purpose to secure actionable intelligence to prevent further attacks on the U.S. and our allies, but compromised our values, stained our national honor and did little practical good," he added. Some of McCain's Republican colleagues and some former CIA officials, however, maintain that waterboarding and other harsh methods have yielded vital intelligence. In his book, "The Great War of Our Time," former deputy CIA director Mike Morell argued that the techniques used on al-Qaida detainees by the CIA produced crucially important intelligence. "I believe that waterboarding was one of the two most effective of the all the harsh techniques (the other being sleep deprivation)," he wrote. Americans remain split on the issue. In a poll conducted 10 years after the 2001 attacks, 52 percent of Americans favored harsh interrogation techniques against individuals suspected of terrorism. Fifty-two percent said torture can sometimes or often be justified while 46 percent thought torture was never or rarely justified. The 2011 poll of 1,087 adults by The Associated Press and the NORC Center for Public Affairs Research at the University of Chicago had a margin of error of plus or minus 4.1 percentage points. FILE - In this Fb. 9, 2016 file photo, Senate Armed Services Committee Chairman Sen. John McCain, R-Ariz. speaks on Capitol Hill in Washington. Tough talk about torture is a guaranteed applause line for Donald Trump on the GOP presidential stump. Trump has repeatedly advocated waterboarding, an enhanced interrogation technique that simulates the feeling of drowning. Last year, McCain and Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif. introduced an amendment to the 2016 defense policy bill that essentially codified the executive order of President Barack Obama. Feinstein said it was important because a future president could lift Obamas executive order. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci, File) Italian police raid illegal dormitory for migrants in south ROSARNO, Italy (AP) Police on Monday raided an abandoned slaughterhouse in southern Italy that African migrant farmworkers use as a dormitory, part of a recently launched crackdown on labor exploitation. The raid at dawn near Rosarno, in Calabria, was conducted after migrants all with residency permits or proper asylum paperwork told authorities that two fellow Africans forced the 30 residents to pay 30 euros ($33) monthly each to sleep there, some on the floor. Police also inspected 10 farms and related small businesses, issuing 13 summonses for hiring workers without contracts and other labor law violations. At an orange grove, where most of the fruit-pickers are from the European Union nation of Bulgaria, six women had no contracts at all. Mattresses are piled up in an abandoned farmhouse where a group of migrants took shelter in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) A recent report based on union-compiled data estimates 400,000 farm workers in Italy are exploited. About 80 percent of the poorly paid crop-pickers are foreigners. Reggio Calabria Prefect Claudio Sammartino told the AP the raids were part of a crackdown launched in November. Earlier raids have seen a total of 13 people put under investigation for alleged exploitation, and, in one case, treating a worker like a slave. Those who recruit exploited workers for farms risk prison sentences from five to eight years if convicted. Rosarno is in the heart of the southern farming area that has come under scrutiny for the treatment of farm workers. In 2012, Amnesty International said the migrants were frequently paid less than Italians doing the same job, and sometimes not paid at all. Rosarno is also notorious for tensions between natives and the migrants. In 2010, nearly 40 people were wounded in clashes, and many migrants fled. "This is a historic wound, and in the past year, we have started an intense effort" to crack down on exploitation, Sammartino said in an interview. Several dozen farm companies have been inspected, some of which are linked to local clans of the 'ndrangheta, the Calabria-based crime syndicate, said the prefect, who is the interior minister's top official locally. According to the organization Doctors for Human Rights, most of the Rosarno-area migrants have documents enabling them to stay in Italy, including paperwork proving they are appealing denied asylum requests. Most of the seasonal workers come from sub-Saharan Africa. Since formal contracts are required for migrants to receive residence permits, many feel pressured to accept poor conditions in return for legal status for themselves and their families. Celeste Logiacco, a leader of a farm workers union, estimated that crop-pickers receive about 25 euros a day, or 50 percent less than what's stipulated in the national contract. Logiacco added that Italian workers are also exploited. "Twenty-five euros a day is not good," Mohamed Ahmed, a migrant from Niger, told The Associated Press recently. While awaiting the outcome of his appeal of a denied asylum request, he lives in a tent camp, with toilets and electricity but no hot water, set up by the Italian government after the 2010 riots. He says he's in limbo - not earning enough to support his wife and three children who stayed in Niger, but unable to leave Italy since his documents are with Italian authorities while he appeals his case. So Ahmed sells meat and other street food at the camp to make some more money. Migrants sit next to orange trees during a police operation to check their working conditions in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) Migrants stand by police officers during a police operation to check their working conditions in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) Migrants talk to police officers during an operation to check their working conditions in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) Bulgarian migrants harvest oranges during a police operation to check their working conditions in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) Police officers stand outside a farmhouse during an operation to check their working conditions in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) A migrant boils water in an abandoned farmhouse where he and other migrants took shelter in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) A migrant walks outside an abandoned farmhouse where he and other migrants took shelter in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) A migrant stands in an abandoned farmhouse where he and other migrants took shelter in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) A migrant eats his meal in an abandoned farmhouse where he and other migrants took shelter in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) A migrant watches television in an abandoned farmhouse where he and other migrants took shelter in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) A migrant walks outside an abandoned farmhouse where he and other migrants took shelter in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) Migrants sits on their beds during a police operation to check their working conditions in the area of Rosarno, in the Calabria region, Southern Italy, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Thousands of migrants, many from Africa, who harvest oranges in the southern Italian region of Calabria during the fruit-picking season, live on meager wages and in squalid conditions, some in abandoned farmhouses or derelict factories, often with no running water or electricity. (AP Photo/Adriana Sapone) Pakistan says it needs F-16s from US for counterterror ops WASHINGTON (AP) Pakistan said Monday at the start of talks with the United States that a contentious sale of F-16 fighter jets would strengthen the South Asian nation's ability to mount counter-terrorist operations and promote regional stability. The U.S. government this month approved the sale of the aircraft, radar and electronic warfare equipment to Pakistan in a deal worth nearly $700 million. Neighboring India, a historic rival of Pakistan, opposes the sale, which has also drawn criticism from some U.S. lawmakers. Congress could potentially block the deal although such action is rare. Secretary of State John Kerry and Pakistan Foreign Affairs Adviser Sartaj Aziz, walks to their seats to participate in the U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue meeting at the State Department in Washington, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen) Pakistani Foreign Affairs Adviser Sartaj Aziz said he appreciated the U.S. leadership's public assessment that Pakistan uses F-16s effectively against terrorists. Secretary of State John Kerry last week told a House committee that Pakistan's existing fleet of F-16s have been critical for its counter-terrorism fight on the western border with Afghanistan. But Aziz urged the Obama administration to do more "to bring Congress fully in the picture about the positive steps taken by Pakistan to further our mutual interests and the very significant change in ground realities that has taken place in the past two-and-a-half years." Kerry did not mention the F-16s sale in his remarks on Monday, but he commended Pakistan's counter-terrorism operations, including in North Waziristan, a tribal area from where militants have launched cross-border attacks into Afghanistan. Pakistan has been accused of targeting some militant groups but nurturing or turning a blind eye to others. Kerry welcomed Pakistan's commitment not to differentiate among terrorist groups. He said groups like the Haqqani network and Lashkar-e-Taiba seek to undermine Pakistan's relations with its neighbors. Kerry said that at Monday's talks they would also discuss Pakistan's "obligations of being a responsible state with nuclear weapons." As the threat of Islamic extremism has grown in Pakistan, so has international concern grown on the security of the nation's nuclear arsenal. Experts say that Pakistan's nuclear stockpile is growing fast, and it is developing tactical nuclear weapons to deter rival India's larger conventional forces. Kerry noted that the U.S. and Russia had succeeded in reducing their nuclear stockpiles. "We are moving in the other direction, and I think it's important for Pakistan to really process that reality and put that front and center in its policy," Kerry said. He looked forward to Pakistan's Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif being among world leaders attending a nuclear security summit to be hosted by President Barack Obama in Washington at the end of March. Pakistan Foreign Affairs Adviser Sartaj Aziz speaks during the U.S.-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue meeting at the State Department in Washington, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. (AP Photo/Cliff Owen) The Latest: Sister of slain mother: Son heard gunshots WOODBRIDGE, Va. (AP) The Latest on the case of an Army staff sergeant who is accused of killing his wife and fatally shooting a police officer (all times local): 6 p.m. The sister of a woman who police say was fatally shot by her husband before he killed a police officer said her sister told her son to run away just before she was shot. A photo provided by the Prince William County Police Department shows, from the left, Officer Steven Kendall, and Officer Ashley Guindon with Lt. Col. Barry Bernard, deputy chief of the Prince William County, Va., Police Department. Officer Ashley Guindon was shot and killed Saturday, Feb. 28, 2016, and two of her colleagues were wounded in a confrontation stemming from a call about an argument. Guindon and Kendall were sworn in on Friday, and Guindon was working her first shift with the Prince William County Police Department when she was killed. (Prince William County Police Department via AP) Wendy Howard said Monday that her 11-year-old nephew heard but did not see the two shots that killed his mother, Crystal Hamilton, at their home in Woodbridge on Saturday. Army Staff Sgt. Ronald Hamilton, who worked at the Pentagon, has been charged with two counts of murder in the death of his wife and police officer Ashley Guindon, who was on her first shift when she was shot. Police say Hamilton also shot two other officers, who are expected to survive. Howard said she became aware of problems in her sister's marriage last year. ___ 5:15 p.m. A Prince William County police officer who was shot and killed on her first day on the job was also a nearly eight-year veteran of the Marine Corps Reserves. The Marines said Monday that Ashley Guindon was a corporal in the reserves who served from 2007 until February of last year. She served as a field radio operator and personnel processing specialist. Her duties included processing the remains and personal effects of fallen service members. She earned awards including the National Defense Service Medal and the Selected Marine Corps Reserve Medal. Guindon was one of three officers shot Saturday responding to a domestic violence call. The other two officers are expected to survive. Ronald Hamilton, of Woodbridge, is being held without bond on charges including capital murder. He is also accused of killing his wife. ___ 11:40 a.m. Court records show an Army staff sergeant has admitted shooting his wife and three police officers who showed up at his front door after his wife called 911. One of the officers, Ashley Guindon, died from her injuries in Saturday's shooting. Guindon had just been sworn in and was working her first shift. Thirty-two-year-old Ronald Hamilton, of Woodbridge, is charged with capital murder in Guindon's death. He also faces a murder charge in the shooting death of his wife, 29-year-old Crystal Hamilton. Ronald Hamilton made initial court appearances Monday in Manassas and is being held without bond. An affidavit filed Monday in General District Court states Hamilton told police that he shot his wife and the three officers. The other two officers were hospitalized and are expected to survive. ___ 8:15 a.m. An Army staff sergeant charged with killing his wife and a northern Virginia police officer who was on her first day on the job is set to appear in court. An arraignment is scheduled for Monday for 32-year-old Ronald Hamilton, a Pentagon worker. Commonwealth's Attorney Paul Ebert has said he'll likely seek the death penalty against Hamilton, who is being held without bond on charges including capital murder, first-degree murder and malicious wounding. Prince William County Police Chief Stephan Hudson says Hamilton and his wife, Crystal, had been arguing all day Saturday, but it escalated after she called 911. He says Hamilton fatally shot his wife and then fired at the arriving officers, killing Officer Ashley Guindon and seriously wounding two others before he surrendered. Police remain on the scene late Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, on Lashmere Court in Dale City, Va., where three Prince William County police officers were shot responding to a domestic violence call. Police said Officer Ashley Guindon died in the shooting. (AP Photo/Matthew Barakat) More than 100 patrol cars line the roads outside Inova Fairfax Hospital early Sunday morning, Feb. 29, 2016, to stand vigil and provide escort to the medical examiner for the body of slain Prince William County police officer Ashley Guindon, who was shot and killed Saturday responding to a domestic violence call. Two other officers were also shot and taken to the hospital. Guindon had been sworn in as an officer on Friday. (AP Photo/Matthew Barakat) Prince William County Police officer Mike Lomanaco walks by a home Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, following a fatal shooting at the residence Saturday evening in Woodbridge, Va. Ronald Williams Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) Police surround a home Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, following a fatal shooting at the residence Saturday evening, in Woodbridge, Va. Ronald Williams Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) This undated photo provided by the Prince William County Police shows Officer Ashley Guindon. Ronald Williams Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer, Guindon. (Prince William County Police via AP) This undated photo provided by the Prince William County Police shows Officer Jesse Hempen, who responded to a domestic violence call Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, in Woodbridge, Va. Hempen and another officer were injured and a third officer was killed while responding to the call. (Prince William County Police via AP) This undated photo provided by the Prince William County Police shows Officer David McKeown, who responded to a domestic violence call Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, in Woodbridge, Va. McKeown and another officer were injured and a third officer was killed while responding to the call. (Prince William County Police via AP) This February 2016 photo provided by the Prince William County Police shows Ronald Hamilton, who is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer. (Prince William County Police via AP) Prince William County Police Chief Stephan Hudson, left, accompanied by Prince William County Commonwealth Attorney Paul Ebert speaks during a news conference at the Western District Station, in Manassas, Va., Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016. Ronald Williams Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer Saturday evening. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) Prince William County Police Chief Stephan Hudson, left, speaks during a news conference next to a picture of Ashley Guindon at Western District Station, in Manassas, Va., Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016, about a fatal shooting Saturday evening. Ronald Williams Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer, Guindon. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana) Food fight! Competition grows to bring dinner in the mail NEW YORK (AP) Meal-kit companies have exploded in the past four years, shipping boxes of raw meat, seafood, fresh vegetables and other ingredients to busy city folk who want to skip the supermarket and still cook at home. Now they want to tempt even more people to give them a try. But the companies face several challenges as they grow. They need to hold onto customers they already have, figure out how to ship uncooked food further outside of cities and continue luring funds from increasingly tight-fisted investors. The industry is growing quickly in the U.S., after first gaining popularity in Europe, and competition is heating up as more players join the fray. In this Jan. 23, 2016, photo, Taryn Robinson cooks white turkey chili, a meal kit dish from Blue Apron, as her father, Keith Robinson, watches over her shoulder in Evanston, Ill. Meal kits are fairly new in the U.S., first appearing in the country about four years after first gaining popularity in Europe. The industry is growing quickly and competition is heating up as more players enter the space and fight to gain customers. (AP Photo/Teresa Crawford) Because of that, meal kit companies are doing all they can to stand out. Blue Apron started to ship wine last year to pair with its meals. HelloFresh began airing TV commercials in November featuring celebrity chef Jamie Oliver. Gobble promises that its meals can be cooked in one pan within 15 minutes. And Purple Carrot, which ships vegan meals, brought on cookbook author Mark Bittman to come up with recipes like tofu fries and onion-stuffed crepes. Even Martha Stewart wants in. The CEO of Sequential Brands, the brand management company that bought Martha Stewart Living last year, said in December that the company is considering a meal kit by the home goods mogul that would be similar to the "Blue Apron model." Meal kits are shipped to people's doorsteps, and the raw ingredients come in an insulated cardboard box. Customers then cook the meals using included step-by-step recipes. Each kit comes with enough food to make several meals, which average about $10 each. Subscribers can get a new box every week. People around the world spent $1.5 billion on these kits last year, with less than half of that coming from the U.S., according to the Technomic research group. It was the first time the company measured spending on meal kits. The market in the U.S. is expected to grow faster than in any other country in the next five years, to as much as $6 billion by 2020, Technomic says. "We don't know how the market will shake out in five years, but there's going to be some big winners and there will be some folks that won't make it," says Erik Thoresen, a principal at Technomic. Holding on to customers may prove to be particularly challenging. Jumping from one meal kit service to the next is tempting since many offer free meals or heavily discounted boxes for new subscribers, says Thoresen. To help fund their expansions, the companies also depend on investor cash, which has showed signs of tightening. Venture capitalists raised $28.2 billion last year from clients to invest in startups across all industries, down 9.5 percent from the year before, according to the National Venture Capital Association. Shipping raw food isn't easy, either. Currently, many customers live in cities, where it's easier to get boxes delivered, says Darren Seifer, a food and beverage industry analyst at NPD Group. But expanding into more suburban areas may be tough since homes are more spread apart, he says. "I don't believe we'll see mainstream adoption of home meal kits," Seifer says. Keith and Sharon Robinson in Evanston, Illinois, began using meal kits from Blue Apron and Plated about two years ago after finding discounts at daily deals websites Groupon and Gilt City. The kits let the high school vice principal and his pediatrician wife cook healthy meals for their two daughters without having to shop at the grocery store. "It literally comes to the door," Keith Robinson says. "Everything is right there; the little baggies of seasoning and spices, the meat, all the vegetables." Some meal-kit sellers have shaken up their businesses to get the attention of potential customers and venture capitalists, too. Gobble, based in San Francisco, started in 2010 by delivering already-cooked meals that needed only to be heated in a microwave. But growth slowed, and after talking to customers, founder and CEO Ooshma Garg realized that people actually want to cook. "They felt guilty feeding their kids out of a microwave," she says. So she came up with a different concept: sending raw ingredients that people can cook in one pan in 15 minutes. Company workers slice and chop vegetables, marinate meats and simmer sauces at Gobble's kitchens before shipping them to subscribers. The change was a hit with customers, and boosted subscribers twentyfold in the first year. Investors in Silicon Valley also liked the new concept, giving Gobble nearly $11 million to help it hire more people and ship its meals in more cities around the country. New York's Purple Carrot, meanwhile, last year brought in Bittman, whose cookbooks and articles focused on eating plant-based foods for part of the day. Purple Carrot, founded in 2014, shipped 100,000 meals in its first year. That's small potatoes compared with Blue Apron and HelloFresh, which say they ship millions of meals in a month. But Purple Carrot has big plans with Bittman, who is now a part owner, and the service has since expanded to the West Coast. Other kits go beyond dinner, sending ingredients to make cupcakes or smoothies. Foodstirs, co-owned by "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" star Sarah Michelle Gellar, ships monthly kits with ingredients and tools to bake chocolate cake pops, vanilla loaf cakes and other treats. And for those that prefer liquid meals, Green Blender in New York sends boxes of cut fruit, vegetables, chia seeds, almonds and other ingredients that can be dumped into a blender to make a smoothie. "It's really cool that customers have become comfortable getting ingredients and food in the mail," says Green Blender co-founder Jenna Tanenbaum. ___ Associated Press writers Tali Arbel in New York and Teresa Crawford in Chicago contributed to this report. _____ Officials: Fired water plant employee made bomb threats WEST PALM BEACH, Fla. (AP) Authorities say a fired water plant worker is under arrest after he set his car on fire outside one plant and made a bomb threat against another. West Palm Beach spokesman Elliot Cohen said during a news conference that 52-year-old Douglas Ellington drove his car to the city's water treatment plant Monday and set it on fire. Cohen says Ellington told firefighters the car contained a bomb, so they backed off. No bomb was found. Cohen says Ellington also made a false bomb threat against the nearby Riviera Beach treatment plant. He added that Ellington was fired from West Palm Beach in 2011 and from Riviera Beach this year, and has been arrested several times. Justice Thomas asks questions in court, 1st time in 10 years WASHINGTON (AP) Justice Clarence Thomas broke 10 years of silence and provoked audible gasps at the Supreme Court on Monday when he posed questions from the bench during an oral argument. It was the second week the court has heard arguments since the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, Thomas' friend and fellow conservative, on Feb. 13. Thomas' questions came in a case in which the court is considering placing new limits on the reach of a federal law that bans people convicted of domestic violence from owning guns. FILE - In this Jan. 26, 2012 file photo, Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas speaks at College of the Holy Cross in Worcester, Mass. Thomas has asked questions during Supreme Court arguments for the first time in 10 years. Thomas' question came Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, in a case in which the court is considering placing new limits on the reach of a federal law that bans people convicted of domestic violence from owning guns. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File) Department lawyer Ilana Eisenstein was about to sit down after answering a barrage of questions from other justices. Thomas then caught her by surprise, asking whether the violation of any other law "suspends a constitutional right." Thomas's silence over the years has become a curiosity. He has previously said he relies on the written briefs and doesn't need to ask questions of the lawyers appearing in court. Thomas last asked a question in court on Feb. 22, 2006. He has come under criticism from some who say he is neglecting his duties. The justices were considering appeals from two Maine men who say their guilty pleas for hitting their partners should not disqualify them from gun ownership. The men say the law should only cover intentional acts of abuse and not those committed in the heat of an argument. Most of the justices appeared to favor the government's position that even reckless acts of domestic assault fall under the law. The Latest: District will stay closed after school shooting HAMILTON, Ohio (AP) The Latest on the school shooting near Hamilton, Ohio (all times local): 5:25 p.m. A southwestern Ohio school says it will be closed Tuesday, the day after a shooter opened fire in a cafeteria, striking two students. A statement from Madison Local Schools also says all extracurricular activities are canceled Monday and Tuesday. The district says school staff will report Tuesday to plan how they will support students when they return. It says plans will include on-site counseling. The district thanked students and staff for reacting to the shooting "exactly the way we have practiced and planned." The suspected shooter is a 14-year-old student. In addition to the shooting victims, two other students were injured by shrapnel or as they tried to get away. ___ 4:45 p.m. An Ohio sheriff says a 14-year-old suspect in a school shooting that wounded four classmates, including two who were shot, is in a juvenile lock-up and facing several charges. Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones says the boy has been charged with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of felonious assault, inducing panic and making terrorist threats. Jones says the boy is being questioned. Jones says a police dog tracked the boy after he fled from the Madison Local Schools cafeteria and threw down his gun. Jones says the boy is a student at the school. Authorities say two students were injured either from shrapnel or from running away. Jones says all four are in stable condition and expected to recover. The school is about 30 miles north of Cincinnati. ___ 3:45 p.m. A 13-year-old girl says she was in a southwest Ohio school cafeteria when a student near her began shooting. Shelby Kinnin says she heard bangs but didn't realize they were gunshots until she saw a boy "grabbing his leg and falling over." She says the lunchtime shooting Monday left some students in tears at the campus for Madison Local Schools' junior and senior high students. Kinnin says many people ran from the scene, and the shooter went out a door. She says she recognized him as a boy who was in a class with her last year, though she wasn't sure of his name. Investigators say they have a 14-year-old suspect in custody. They say two teenage students were shot, but their injuries weren't believed to be life-threatening. ___ 2 p.m. A sheriff says a 14-year-old student pulled out a gun in a southwestern Ohio school cafeteria and opened fire, hitting two students. Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones says two other students were injured at Madison Local Schools either as they tried to get away or from shrapnel from the shooting. Jones says the suspect ran from the school, threw the gun down and was apprehended nearby. Jones says the 14-year-old was a student and there was a motive to the shooting which he did not identify. Investigators say the students who were shot were 14 and 15 years old and were taken to the hospital. Jones says students were eating in the cafeteria when the shooting happened around 11:30 a.m. The school has said none of injuries were believed to be life-threatening. ___ 1:15 p.m. A law enforcement official says a shooting at a southwestern Ohio school district injured four students, with two shot and two hurt some other way. Chief Anthony Dwyer of the Butler County sheriff's office says the shooting happened in the Madison Local Schools lunchroom and two students may have been hit by shrapnel or trying to get out of the way. Dwyer says a suspect was taken into custody. The school district says it's now dismissing students from the junior high and senior high schools as quickly as possible following the shooting. The school district says on its website that the injuries are not life-threatening and that all other students are safe. ___ 1 p.m. A southwestern Ohio school district says it's now dismissing students from the junior high and senior high schools as quickly as possible following a shooting. Madison Local Schools say both students riding buses and students who drove will be dismissed. The district says elementary students will be dismissed about an hour earlier by bus. The district has declined to say what happened Monday, except that three students were injured and a suspect in custody. Police in nearby Middletown say on their Facebook page that it was a shooting. The school district says on its website that the injuries are not life threatening and that all other students are safe. The campus is near Middletown, roughly 30 miles north of Cincinnati. State records show enrollment of about 250 junior high and 500 high school students. ___ 12:30 p.m. Three southwestern Ohio students have been wounded in a shooting at school and a suspect is in custody. Madison Local Schools officials declined to say what happened, but it says on its website that the injuries are not life threatening. Police in nearby Middletown say on their Facebook page that it was a shooting. The campus near Middletown, roughly 30 miles north of Cincinnati, is on lockdown and the website message says all other students are safe. The district says students will be dismissed once authorities give the all-clear. The Butler County Sheriff's Office has asked people to say away from the school until the scene is cleared. Roads are blocked near the school. US: Cyberattacks can expose Islamic State communications WASHINGTON (AP) U.S. cyberattacks to disrupt the Islamic State's communications and overload their networks could force the militant group to use older technologies that are easier for the U.S. to intercept, Defense Secretary Ash Carter said Monday. Carter and Gen. Joseph Dunford, chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, provided details about how the Pentagon is using its new, aggressive cyber campaign as part of military operations against the Islamic State in Syria and Iraq. "As we disrupt the ISIL communications via cyber or other methods, sometimes we do drive them to other means," Carter told Pentagon reporters. "Sometimes, those other means are easier for us to listen to." U.S. officials told The Associated Press last week that the military had increased cyber operations against the group. The operations include efforts by U.S. Cyber Command to prevent the group from using the Internet and social media to communicate and distribute propaganda aimed at attracting and inspiring recruits. The efforts could also force IS back to technologies like cell phones to communicate. Dunford said that using the computer-based attacks alongside bombings and other military actions allows the U.S. to "both physically and virtually isolate" the group and limits its ability to command and control its fighters. That type of coordinated offensive, he said, will be used to support Iraqi security forces as they try to retake the northern city of Mosul. The surge of computer-based military operations by U.S. Cyber Command began shortly after Carter prodded commanders last month to accelerate the fight against the Islamic State group on the cyber front. Dunford and Carter didn't provide a lot of details Monday. Dunford said the U.S. doesn't want to reveal too much. Argentina: ex spy chief testifies in prosecutor's death case BUENIOS AIRES, Argentina (AP) Argentina's most famous spymaster appeared before a local court on Monday to answer questions about the last days of his relationship with a prosecutor who died while investigating the country's worst terrorist attack. Antonio Stiuso assisted prosecutor Alberto Nisman's investigation of the unsolved 1994 bombing of a Buenos Aires Jewish center. Nisman tried to contact Stiuso four times by telephone the day before he was found shot dead in his apartment on Jan. 18, 2015. Stiuso said in a statement to a prosecutor last year that he never heard the calls. Stiuso fled Argentina shortly after that, complaining of threats on his life and he had failed to comply with a summons ordering him to testify until now. FILE - In this May 29, 2013, file photo, Alberto Nisman, the prosecutor investigating the 1994 bombing of the Argentine-Israeli Mutual Association community center, talks to journalists in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Antonio Stiuso Argentina's most famous spy master went before a local judge Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, to answer questions about the last days of his relationship with Nisman who died while investigating the countrys worst terrorist attack. (AP Photo/Natacha Pisarenko, File) Days before his death, Nisman accused then-President Cristina Fernandez of helping Iranian officials cover up Iran's alleged role in the bombing that killed 85 people. The case against Fernandez was later thrown out. At the time, Fernandez suggested Nisman was killed by rogue intelligence agents, though she gave no evidence. She also said that Stiuso fed false information to Nisman and even had a hand in writing the late prosecutor's report detailing the accusations against her. Stiuso oversaw a widespread wire-tapping operation before he was removed as head of Argentina's spy agency in December 2014. Sanders keeps his Judaism in the background, irking US Jews NEW YORK (AP) As Bernie Sanders headed toward victory in New Hampshire, pundits noted the barrier he was about to break: Sanders would become the first Jewish candidate to win a major party presidential primary. But since that Feb. 9 win, instead of the burst of communal pride that often accompanies such milestones, the response from American Jews has been muted. One reason: The Vermont senator, the candidate who has come closer than any other Jew to being a Democratic or Republican presidential nominee, has mostly avoided discussing his Judaism. Sanders has baffled Jews by refusing to name the Israeli kibbutz where he briefly volunteered in the 1960s, sending reporters scrambling to solve the mystery. When they found the kibbutz, he wouldn't comment. FILE - In this Feb. 8, 2016 file photo, Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt., smiles as he greats attendees during a campaign stop at the University of New Hampshire in Durham, N.H. As Sanders headed toward victory in New Hampshire, pundits noted the barrier he was about to break: Sanders would become the first Jewish candidate to win a major party presidential primary. But since he won that night, instead of the burst of communal pride that usually accompanies such milestones, the response from American Jews has been muted. One reason: The Vermont senator, the candidate who has come closer than any other Jew to being a major party presidential nominee, has mostly avoided discussing his Judaism. (AP Photo/John Minchillo, File) In New Hampshire after his breakout win, he described himself as "the son of a Polish immigrant," not a Jewish one. At a Democratic debate, he spoke of the historic nature of "somebody with my background" seeking the presidency, but didn't use the word "Jewish." A recent headline in the liberal Jewish Daily Forward newspaper read, "We Need To Out Bernie Sanders as a Jew For His Own Good." Rabbi James Glazier of Temple Sinai n South Burlington, Vermont, said Sanders' comments were being discussed by rabbis in the liberal Reform movement. "What did he leave out there? He didn't say 'Jewish Polish' immigrant. Reform rabbis have picked up on this big time." Sanders' lack of religious observance is not what rankles. It has become so common for Jews to identify "culturally" instead of religiously with the faith that the Pew Research Center, in its most recent study of the American Jewish population, used a category called "Jews of no religion." Michael Bloomberg, the former New York mayor, also is not religious, but he was embraced for his unwavering support of Israel and his generous donations to Jewish causes. Louis Brandeis, who in 1916 became the first Jewish justice on the U.S. Supreme Court, did not practice his faith, yet he was the pride of American Jews. Brandeis went on to become a leading U.S. advocate for Zionism. But Sanders, during more than three decades in public life as a mayor, congressman and U.S. senator, has developed few relationships with Jewish groups or leaders on religious issues or on Israel. He has supported a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict but has not made Israel in any way a priority. "I would say that he has never been one of those in Congress who was active in a Jewish caucus, who turned out for Israel, who was involved in those issues and he still isn't," said Jonathan Sarna, an expert in American Jewish history at Brandeis University. Ironically, when Sanders gave his most religiously focused campaign speech, he only seemed to underscore his distance from Judaism. It was last fall at Liberty University, the evangelical school founded by the Rev. Jerry Falwell in Lynchburg, Virginia, and he addressed the school on Rosh Hashana, the Jewish New Year, one of the most important holidays of the year. Discussing his beliefs in the speech, he said he was "motivated by a vision" for social justice "which exists in all of the great religions." But Sanders didn't say he was Jewish. Later, he did stop in at a Rosh Hashana gathering at the home of the Lynchburg mayor. The Sanders campaign did not respond to repeated requests for comment for this article. Stanley "Huck" Gutman, former chief of staff in Sanders' Senate office, wrote in an email, "He is an old friend, a close friend but we have very seldom, if ever, discussed religion." Sanders' life follows a familiar arc in 20th century American Jewish experience: The son of an immigrant, he grew up in the shadow of the Holocaust, which Sanders has said wiped out much of his father's family. As a child in Brooklyn, Sanders went to Hebrew school and had a bar mitzvah, but the lessons he drew from the teachings seem closer to a golden rule morality than specifically Jewish. In the presidential race, he often sums up his religious views with the phrase, "We are in this together." "Being Jewish is very important to us," his brother, Larry, said in an interview in England where he lives. "There was no problem of debate, it was just a given in our lives, just as being Americans was a given in our lives. But Bernard is not particularly religious. He doesn't go to synagogue often. I think he probably goes to synagogue only for weddings and funerals, rather than to pray." Like many young American Jews in the 1960s, Sanders volunteered on a kibbutz, which news organizations discovered to be Sha'ar Ha'amakim in northern Israel. Irit Drori, who now lives on the kibbutz, said no one there remembers the presidential candidate and self-described democratic socialist. "It was a socialist kibbutz," Drori said. "If Mr. Sanders was interested in socialism, he could find people to talk about it with here." After moving to Vermont in the late 1960s, he eventually began his political career. But setting down roots did not mean joining a synagogue, though he sometimes would visit them. Rabbi Glazier said Sanders had been to Temple Sinai once for a candidates' event. The Chabad-Lubavitch Hasidic community in Burlington said Sanders, as mayor, helped them overcome opposition to erecting a Hanukkah menorah on public land. In 1988, he married his second wife, Jane, who was raised Roman Catholic, just as the national intermarriage rate was climbing so high that Jewish leaders began calling it a crisis. In Vermont, where nearly 40 percent of residents say they have no particular religion, Sanders was rarely called on to discuss his faith. However, in the last couple of years, he has been facing increasing challenges about his support for Israel. In a widely viewed video of a 2014 Vermont town hall event, after the war started between Israel and Hamas, the Islamic militant group that controls Gaza, some voters demanded Sanders do more to protest Israeli bombing. The war killed more than 2,200 Palestinians in Gaza, including hundreds of civilians, and 73 people on the Israeli side. Sanders was among a small number of senators who didn't co-sponsor a resolution supporting Israel in the conflict, which passed by voice vote. Sanders said Israel "overreacted" with the intensity of its attacks, and he called the bombing of U.N. schools "terribly, terribly wrong." But he also criticized Hamas for launching rockets into Israel. Israel has said Hamas is responsible for civilian casualties, since it carried out numerous attacks from residential areas in Gaza. "I believe in a two-state solution, where Israel has the right to exist in security at the same time the Palestinians have a state of their own," Sanders said. Last year, Sanders was the first of several senators who announced they would skip Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to Congress. President Barack Obama hadn't been consulted, he said, and the speech was too close to the Israeli elections, giving the appearance the U.S. was trying to influence the outcome. As a presidential candidate, Sanders said he consulted the dovish pro-Israel lobby J Street and the Arab American Institute, founded by Jim Zogby, on Mideast Policy. "That's not exactly a balanced view of the region," said Malcolm Hoenlein, the executive vice chairman of the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations, which has not accepted J Street as a member. "I hope he has other advisers or will take other advisers. He's never really been that identified that strongly with pro-Israel advocacy." While Jews mull the source of Sanders' reticence about discussing his Jewish roots, they are relieved that a Jewish candidate can run without prompting an outpouring of anti-Semitism. Still, they worry that could change if he succeeds in the primaries ahead. Sanders did offer a rare comment on his heritage last week on MSNBC's "Hardball," saying, "I'm very proud to be Jewish." Sarna, of Brandeis, said the candidate's religious identity is clear even if he doesn't talk much about it. "I think it is very much a statement about America that someone who everybody knows is of Jewish background and has a Jewish name and sounds Jewish from Brooklyn can get several delegates," Sarna said. "There is a sense that only in America could a Bernie Sanders be a candidate." ____ AP Religion Writer Rachel Zoll reported from New York and Josef Federman from Jerusalem. Aron Heller in Jerusalem and Jill Lawless in London contributed to this report. FILE - In this Sept. 14, 2015, file photo, Liberty University students listen as Democratic presidential candidate, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. gestures during a speech at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va. Sanders, the first Jewish presidential candidate to win delegates in a major party primary, has mostly avoided discussing his Judaism on the campaign trail, bewildering many American Jews. (AP Photo/Steve Helber, File) FILE - In this Sept. 14, 2015, file photo, Democratic presidential candidate, Sen. Bernie Sanders, I-Vt. gestures during a speech at Liberty University in Lynchburg, Va. Sanders is the first Jewish presidential candidate to win delegates in a major party primary. But he has mostly avoided discussing his Judaism on the campaign trail, bewildering many American Jews. (AP Photo/Steve Helber, File) FILE - This Sept. 11, 1981 file photo shows Burlington, Vt., Mayor Bernie Sanders. Sanders is the first Jewish presidential candidate to win delegates in a major party primary. But he has mostly avoided discussing his Judaism on the campaign trail, bewildering many American Jews. (AP Photo/Donna Light, File) Puerto Rico policeman found guilty in US civil rights case SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico (AP) A former Puerto Rico policeman accused of hiring corrupt officers to break into a home and steal property has been found guilty. The U.S. Attorney's Office said Monday that Francisco Martinez Mercado was found guilty of conspiracy to deprive a person of his civil rights. He is scheduled to be sentenced in May. Ex-president's brother arrested in Colombia death squad case BOGOTA, Colombia (AP) The brother of former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe was arrested Monday on allegations he was involved in murders and forced disappearances while helping form a far-right death squad in the 1990s. Santiago Uribe has long denied any involvement in killings attributed by a former police captain to a group known as the "12 Apostles." It allegedly plotted dozens of slayings from an Uribe family cattle ranch in northern Antioquia state. Uribe was arrested in Medellin and charged with murder and conspiracy. This Feb. 2008 photo shows Santiago Uribe, brother of former President Alvaro Uribe, talking to bullfighters after attending a bullfight in Medellin, Colombia. Santiago Uribe was arrested on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016 on charges that he created and led a death squad in the 1990s. He has long denied any involvement in the murders while former President Uribe has long asserted his brother's innocence and accused his successor, Juan Manuel Santos, of wielding the threat of prosecution against his brother to stymie the rise of his conservative Democratic Center movement. (AP Photo/Luis Benavides) His brother is traveling in the U.S. and has not commented. But the former president has long asserted his brother's innocence and accused his successor, President Juan Manuel Santos, of wielding the threat of prosecution against his brother to stymie the rise of Uribe's conservative Democratic Center movement. Santos said on his Twitter account that Attorney General Eduardo Montealegre should "open the doors to an international oversight" of the investigation to ensure fairness for Uribe. Uribe has largely eschewed politics, dedicating himself instead to cattle ranching and raising fighting bulls. Retired police Maj. Juan Carlos Meneses said in a 2010 interview with The Associated Press that as the head of police in the town of Yarumal starting in 1994, he received monthly payments from the "12 Apostles" group to look the other way as it murdered around 50 drug addicts, thieves and cattle rustlers in the area. He said Santiago Uribe ran the death squad from the La Carolina ranch using short-wave radios and that he once saw 15 uniformed paramilitaries with R-15 and AK-47 rifles at the ranch doing physical training on an obstacle course. Around the same time, Alvaro Uribe became governor of Antioquia state. As president between 2002 and 2010, he leveraged some $700 million in annual aid from Washington to decimate leftist rebels, winning domestic popularity but drawing complaints from human rights groups about tactics and the military's behavior. Russia and Ukraine urged to live up to 2015 peace agreement UNITED NATIONS (AP) The European security organization expressed deep concern at continuing cease-fire violations in eastern Ukraine on Monday and urged the Russian and Ukrainian governments to live up to their commitments in the peace agreement they signed a year ago. Addressing the U.N. Security Council as the current chair of the Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, German Foreign Minister Frank-Walter Steinmeier said implementing the Minsk agreement is the only way to a political solution in Ukraine. He said foreign ministers from the so-called Normandy Group Germany, France, Russia and Ukraine will meet in Paris on Thursday to try to achieve progress on the security situation and a new electoral law for the Donbas region of eastern Ukraine which includes Donetsk and Luhansk. This is "the main condition for elections which should take place in the first half of this year," he said. After the 2014 ousting of President Viktor Yanukovych, Russia seized the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine and Russian-speaking separatists in the Donetsk and Luhansk regions launched protests that escalated into a war that has killed more than 9,000 people. The February 2015 Minsk agreement has helped reduce fighting in eastern Ukraine, but skirmishes have continued and there has been little progress in bringing about a political settlement. The warring parties have blamed each other for numerous violations, and Russia and Ukraine went after each other in the Security Council after Steinmeier's briefing. Steinmeier called on both countries "to live up to their responsibilities." Ukraine's U.N. Ambassador Volodymyr Yelchenko accused Russia of carrying out a "'hybrid war' against Ukraine, marked with invention of artificial grounds for invasions, sending regular troops without insignia and the use of pervasive, virulent propaganda." He warned that the situation in Donbas could escalate. Yelchenko said Ukraine's steps toward implementing the Minsk agreements haven't been reciprocated by Russia. But he said Kiev is ready to fully implement the agreements "and move forward on all aspects" including local elections in certain areas of Donbas. Russia's U.N. Ambassador Vitaly Churkin accused Ukraine of violating Minsk by using heavy weaponry instead of withdrawing its forces and of failing to adopt laws on the special status of Donbas, amnesty, and elections as the agreement requires. "Kiev should want to see the implementation of the package of measures, just as Russia does," Churkin said. "It's time to halt the crisis." Pauline Cafferkey leaves hospital after third Ebola alert Ebola nurse Pauline Cafferkey has been discharged from hospital after being treated for the third time for a complication linked to the disease. The Royal Free Hospital said the Scottish medic was released on Sunday and is "not infectious". The 40-year-old was originally infected with the killer disease while working in Sierra Leone in December 2014, and she was flown from Glasgow to the London hospital on February 23 for her latest treatment. Ebola nurse Pauline Cafferkey has been discharged, the Royal Free Hospital said In a statement, the Royal Free said: "Pauline Cafferkey has today been discharged from the care of the Royal Free Hospital following her admission due to a complication related to her previous infection by the Ebola virus. "We can confirm that Pauline is not infectious. The Ebola virus can only be transmitted by direct contact with the blood or bodily fluids of an infected person while they are symptomatic." Ms Cafferkey spent almost a month in an isolation unit at the Royal Free after being flown home from west Africa. She was released after making a recovery, but she fell ill again in October last year and was again treated at the Royal Free for meningitis caused by Ebola. At one point, the Scottish nurse was described as ''critically ill'' but she was discharged in November and transferred to Glasgow's Queen Elizabeth University Hospital to continue her recovery, and later returned home. NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde said on Tuesday last week that Ms Cafferkey was in a stable condition at the city hospital after "routine monitoring" identified a problem. She was later flown to London. Health Secretary Jeremy Hunt tweeted: "It's fantastic news that Pauline Cafferkey has been discharged from hospital. Outstanding care again from @RoyalFreeNHS #NHSheroes." Chris Evans 'a real team player' on Top Gear, says BBC TV chief Top Gear host Chris Evans is a team player and it is "rubbish" to suggest otherwise, according to a BBC boss. The car show frontman was described as a " passionate presenter" by Mark Linsey, acting director of BBC Television, following reports about Evans's behaviour on the job. The TV chief also said it is "simply not true" to say Evans was against the appointment of Friends star Matt LeBlanc to the show's seven-strong presenting line-up. Chris Evans and Matt LeBlanc filming Top Gear in Blackpool Mr Linsey was responding to recent speculation about Top Gear which included a report that executive producer Lisa Clark left after just five months on the show due to Evans's behaviour. In a statement, Mr Linsey said: "It is rubbish to suggest Chris Evans's behaviour on the set of Top Gear has been in any way unprofessional. "Chris is a consummate professional and a real team-player. He is a passionate presenter who commits his heart and soul into everything he does - whether his Radio 2 show, Children In Need or Top Gear - and we are extremely fortunate to have him leading the show. "Also, it is simply not true to suggest Chris did not support the signing of Matt LeBlanc, when he has been behind Matt joining the presenting team since day one. "Chris and Matt are part of a wider production team that is full of brilliant and talented people. That team is tight-knit, in great spirits and utterly focused on delivering the best possible series for viewers." When she left, Ms Clark said she was "moving on to new projects", and added: "I'd like to wish production all the very best with the show." The BBC issued a statement thanking Ms Clark for her "incredible work for the last five months readying new Top Gear for its busy filming schedule in 2016 and planned return in May". When she was appointed, Evans said: "Lisa is as good as it gets when it comes to making big, important television shows. She's funny, sassy, super experienced and has always absolutely loved cars." She took the role previously held by Andy Wilman, who left the show after his old school friend Jeremy Clarkson was dropped following a fracas with another member of the production staff. Last week, Clarkson issued a formal apology to the Irish producer he punched in a deal to settle a racial discrimination and personal injury claim. Oisin Tymon launched the action against Clarkson and the BBC after the former Top Gear presenter gave him a bloody lip in a bust-up last March. Clarkson reportedly flew into a rage after being told he could not order steak after a day of filming, calling Mr Tymon a "lazy, Irish c***" during the fracas at a North Yorkshire hotel. No details of the settlement were given, but it is understood to be more than 100,000. Clarkson and the BBC both contributed. The settlement means there will not be an employment tribunal hearing, which could have heaped further embarrassment on the popular presenter. The BBC sacked Clarkson, 55, from Top Gear following the bust-up, prompting his co-presenters James May and Richard Hammond to quit the show. Clarkson, May and Hammond have signed up to launch a rival show on Amazon's TV service. Man accused of masterminding guns plot 'bragged of being gangster' A criminal mastermind bragged "we now officially gangsters" after smuggling a massive arsenal of Eastern European guns into the UK with a street value of more than 100,000, a court has heard. Harry Shilling was allegedly behind the plan to sail a boat laden with 22 assault rifles and nine sub-machine guns up the River Medway from Boulogne in France. The cruiser Albernina arrived with the "evil" cargo near Cuxton Marina, near Rochester in Kent, on August 10 last year. Skorpion machine pistols seized during a raid in Kent (NCA/PA) The weapons, which could have found their way to the British drugs markets or for hire within the criminal underworld, were capable of "unleashing carnage on a terrifying scale", jurors at the Old Bailey were told. But the National Crime Agency (NCA) had the plotters under surveillance and swooped to seize the deadly cache before it could be buried and then passed into the wrong hands, the court heard. Shilling, 25, Michael Defraine, 30, John Smale, 58, and Jennifer Arthy, 42, are on trial accused of gun smuggling and possessing firearms with intent to endanger life. Prosecutor Duncan Atkinson QC said the illicit importation was not disputed as Richard Rye, 24, David Payne, 43, and Christopher Owen, 30, had already pleaded guilty. He told jurors that it was for them to decide who else was in on the plot. Shilling allegedly came up with the plan and paid for the guns, with help from his man on the Continent, Defraine, and "loyal lieutenant" Rye, who acted as a "go-between" with others. Skipper Payne brought the guns into the country on board the Albernina, which was paid for by Shilling and Rye, the court heard. Payne's partner Arthy along with Smale and Owen, both from Rochester, were allegedly recruited to help acquire and prepare the vessel and unload its cargo. Shilling and Defraine travelled regularly to the Continent and phone records allegedly showed how they planned the importation route. Their BlackBerry mobile phones had been installed with encryption software which the NCA was able to crack to provide "compelling evidence" of their key roles, the court heard. On August 10, the Albernina, loaded with the firearms, sailed from Boulogne up the River Medway towards Cuxton. On arriving back in the UK, Payne allegedly texted Rye to say "All done" followed by an email from Shilling to Defraine saying: "There (sic) home." Later, Shilling sent another email saying "We now officially gangsters", to which Defraine responded: "F****** nice one", the court heard. Shilling replied: "Hahahaha defo that's sick. Duck and run for cover bitches," followed by: "We are a firm ant we", the court was told. Defraine allegedly replied: "Proper heavy and armed to the teeth no one wants beef fam." Shilling also exchanged messages with a mystery contact "B" to arrange the onward supply of the guns, the court heard. He stated: "Next month I have 30 glocks I will sell," the jury heard. B replied: "Ok mate let me polish the ak first and then u gonna give sweets with them?" Shilling allegedly replied: "Yea theres 2 clips with each one". On August 11, Shilling, Defraine and Rye went to DIY store Homebase to buy bags and tools to bury the weapons until they were needed, Mr Atkinson said. Each of the 22 Czech assault riles, similar to an AK47, would have fetched up to 4,000 even though they were sold at "shockingly low" prices in Eastern Europe. They had been reactivated and made available for purchase in the Czech or Slovak republics. The "sought-after" Skorpion machine guns, which were originally developed for use by Czech special forces, would have netted 3,500 apiece. They are compact, easy to conceal and boast a "truly devastating capability" due to their ability to fire fully automatically, Mr Atkinson said. Like the rifles, they had been converted so that they could fire again. They are desired by criminals both as "status symbols" and as serious offensive weapons, jurors were told. Mr Atkinson said: "The prosecution contends that these guns were more than trophies - they were working weapons and they came with a large amount of working ammunition. "The defendants intended these guns to be used, and to be used with ammunition, for the purpose for which they were designed - as lethal weapons capable of unleashing carnage on a terrifying scale - and they clearly intended to profit from doing so." He told jurors that they would be shown evidence from CCTV and border security records as well as telephone data. He said a feature of the case was the use and disposal of telephone numbers by defendants who used different numbers, showing "forensic awareness". Shilling, from Swanley; Defraine, from Bexleyheath; Smale, from Rochester; and Arthy, who lived with Payne on a houseboat in Cuxton, deny the charges against them. 'Derby of Italy' joy as Juve go four points clear TURIN, Italy, Feb 28 (Reuters) - Leonardo Bonucci and Alvaro Morata were on target as Juventus defeated Inter Milan 2-0 in the 'derby of Italy' to open a four-point lead at the top of Serie A on Sunday. Bonucci scored for the hosts from close range in the 47th minute after Inter's Danilo D'Ambrosio made a horrid mistake by heading Paulo Dybala's free kick across his own goal. Substitute Morata added the second goal from the penalty spot after being tripped by Joao Miranda with six minutes to go. Juve now have 61 points from 27 matches, four more than second-placed Napoli who travel to Fiorentina on Monday, and remain on course for a record fifth consecutive 'Scudetto'. "We absolutely had to win," Bonucci told Italian television. "Two consecutive draws would have been too many, we had to win to send out a message. "We haven't put pressure on Napoli, we are the leaders so we only care about our own results." Roberto Mancini's inconsistent Inter are fifth on 48 points, four behind fourth-placed Fiorentina and five adrift of AS Roma who are third. After defeating title rivals Napoli 1-0 on Feb. 13, Juve's club record 15-game winning streak was halted by last weekend's draw with Bologna. Massimiliano Allegri's men dominated the opening stages on Sunday with Dybala, Mario Mandzukic and former Inter midfielder Hernanes going close in the first 45 minutes. The visitors adopted a defensive approach and fell behind after Bonucci's far-post finish. Morata then made it 2-0, two minutes after coming on to the field. "We now have one less obstacle on our road to the title," said Allegri. "The more games we win, the less we will still have to do." Merkel defends open borders for migrants amid German rift By John O'Donnell FRANKFURT, Feb 28 (Reuters) - German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday defended her open-door policy for migrants, rejecting any limit on the number of refugees allowed into her country despite divisions within her government. Merkel said there was no 'Plan B' for her aim of reducing the flow of migrants through cooperation with Turkey, efforts she said could unravel were Germany to cap the number of refugees it accepts. "Sometimes, I also despair. Some things go too slow. There are many conflicting interests in Europe," Merkel told state broadcaster ARD. "But it is my damn duty to do everything I can so that Europe finds a collective way." Merkel spelled out her motivation to keep Germany's borders open without limits on refugees, a goal many in her own country and coalition government openly disagree with. "There is so much violence and hardship on our doorstep," she said. "What's right for Germany in the long term? There, I think it is to keep Europe together and to show humanity." Merkel, once highly popular, has seen her ratings plummet because of her handling of the migrants issue. The majority of those surveyed by public broadcaster ARD earlier in February were dissatisfied with her. Germany attracted 1.1 million asylum seekers last year, leading to calls from across the political spectrum for a change in its handling of refugees coming to Europe to escape war and poverty in Syria, Afghanistan and elsewhere. Merkel now faces what she said on Sunday was the biggest challenge of her decade in office. She is struggling to secure a Europe-wide plan for dealing with the migrants. She is pinning her hopes on talks between European Union leaders and Turkey on March 7 and a migration summit on March 18 and 19. After many failed attempts, the two meetings look like the final chance to agree on a joint response before warmer weather encourages more arrivals across the Mediterranean. But Merkel said she would fight on for a European solution even were the March 7 meeting to fall short. The migrants question has not only divided Europe. There is also strong dissent within Germany and the governing coalition. Politicians from the state of Bavaria's Christian Social Union, the sister party to Merkel's CDU, have been critical of her stance. They want a limit on the number of migrants, similar to that imposed in Austria. So too does the majority of Germans in the ARD survey. Austria, the last stop on the way to Germany for hundreds of thousands of migrants, recently imposed restrictions on its borders, setting off a domino effect in Europe in limiting the flow of people, and leaving hundreds stranded in Greece. Merkel dismissed such a "rigid limit", saying: "There is no point in believing that I can solve the problem through the unilateral closure of borders." GERMAN DIVIDE Merkel made her comments as the rift widened in her governing coalition over how to cope with an influx of refugees. Leading German Social Democrats, part of the country's governing coalition, earlier accused Merkel's conservative finance minister of being too thrifty in dealing with the migrant crisis. The criticism came after Finance Minister Wolfgang Schaeuble labelled Social Democrat proposals for wider social spending on housing and public services to complement the integration of migrants as "pitiful". Stephan Weil, the Social Democrat premier of the state of Lower Saxony, hit back on Sunday, calling for a bigger social services budget as the country accommodates over a million migrants. Merkel said she did not support such an idea. "The finance minister obviously just doesn't get it," Weil told the Sueddeutsche Zeitung newspaper. Pointing to the high cost of integrating migrants, Weil said: "We cannot create the impression that this is happening at the expense of the weaker members of our society." Heiko Maas, justice minister and a Social Democrat, was similarly critical and made a renewed call for more spending. "What's more important? The people in the country or balancing the budget?" Schaeuble, a long-standing proponent of prudence, wants to prevent Germany from spending more than it earns and is unlikely to be easily moved. If spending were to spiral, it could further weaken Merkel's fading support. She has warned about the consequences for Europe of border closure. But a poor showing by the Christian Democrats in state elections in March would pressure her to reverse course. "The international financial crisis was a big challenge. We managed that well. The euro crisis was a huge challenge," said Merkel. "This crisis is different because people are coming to us, people with a different cultural background ... where people ask what is this doing to our country." Space mining race heats up, but whose asteroid is it anyway? Andy Home By Andy Home LONDON, Feb 26 (Reuters) - Space mining, extracting resources from near-earth asteroids, is "not science fiction any more". With these words, spoken by Jean-Jacques Dordain, the former director general of the European Space Agency, Luxembourg announced its entry into the space-mining race. Dordain was appearing alongside Etienne Schneider, Luxembourg's economy minister, as he unveiled the country's bid to be a pioneer in a whole new resources sector, one with quite literally infinite potential. That the small Duchy of Luxembourg should be challenging the current dominant player in space exploration, the U.S., might initially appear surprising. But in truth it is only building on its historical role in pioneering satellite technology. In 1985 it sponsored SES, which is now the world's largest commercial satellite operator. And while asteroid mining really does sound like science fiction, much of the groundwork has already been laid. Private operators such as Planetary Resources Inc. (PRI) and Deep Space Industries are getting in on the action, chasing the promise by U.S. astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson that, "the first trillionaire, in the world, is going to be the person who first mines asteroids". (Interview at the 2014 South-by-Southwest festival). PRI is, ambitiously maybe, aiming to be commissioning mines within five years. ("Courage or Capital; the final obstacles for sustainable asteroid mining" - Accenture) Indeed, a greater challenge to space mining than the technology might be the absence of any legal framework. In layman's terms, the question is, whose asteroid is it anyway? WHAT'S MINED IN SPACE STAYS IN SPACE Quite evidently given bombed-out prices, the last thing most mining companies want right now is more minerals, let alone stuff that has been sourced from space. They can rest assured that asteroids are not going to add to an existing glut of industrial raw materials such as iron ore any time soon. NASA's Osiris-Rex mission to the Bennu asteroid, scheduled for launch later this year, will cost $800 million and bring back a maximum two kilogrammes of sample. On that economics no-one is going to be flooding an already flooded iron ore market any time soon. Rather, the short-term prize of asteroid mining is to extract resources that will then be used to manufacture in space itself more space platforms, spacecraft and satellites. Metals such as iron, cobalt and nickel are abundant in asteroids and critical components for space vehicles. Platinum group metals, also abundant, can be used for internal circuitry and electronics. But the real holy grail will be the frozen ice on many asteroids, which can generate both hydrogen for fuel and oxygen for...well that's pretty obvious, isn't it? The biggest component of operating in space is that of launching rockets from Earth, around $100,000 per kg of material, according to NASA. "Mining these materials from asteroids will therefore spawn an entirely new industry in space mission services by replacing Earth-sourced materials with those from space and dramatically reducing commercial space-development costs," according to Accenture. If anything, asteroid mining might be a net positive for Earth-bound miners and equipment suppliers. Again to quote Accenture, "both traditional mining and asteroid mining are intently focused on autonomous operational capabilities in very harsh environments". Think Rio Tinto and BHP Billiton's experience in autonomous excavators and transport systems already deployed for iron ore mining in Australia's Pilbara. It's not surprising therefore that Bechtel, the U.S. equipment giant, has invested in and partnered with PRI. Another investor is 3D Systems, a specialist in 3D printing for manufacturing. The future goal may well be, as Luxembourg's Schneider told a press conference, to bring rare minerals back to Earth to fill "an ever-increasing scarcity", but more immediately what's going to be mined in space is going to stay in space. GET YOUR HANDS OFF MY ASTEROID! But the catch is that, to quote Rachael O'Grady, senior associate at law firm Mayer Brown International, "there's simply no legal framework" for private operators to mine asteroids. Ms O'Grady, who has cut her legal teeth in the satellite sector, is one of a growing number of lawyers calling for an international accord on space mining equivalent to the International Seabed Authority, which has jurisdiction over non-territorial waters. Space law is dominated by the 1967 Outer Space Treaty, written and ratified at the time of the Cold War and therefore heavy on the prohibition of weapons of mass destruction in space, on the Moon, or any other "celestial body". The treaty explicitly forbids any government from claiming a celestial resource such as the Moon or a planet on the basis that they are "the common heritage of mankind". So when Neil Armstrong planted the U.S. flag on the Moon back in 1969, it was a purely symbolic gesture. The U.S. doesn't "own" the Moon. The Moon Agreement of 1979 was an attempt to extend the provisions of the previous treaty to the exploitation of any celestial body, including asteroids. Any such body and its natural resources are also "the common heritage of mankind" and can't be owned by any state or non-state body. The only problem was that while 104 countries signed up to and ratified the 1967 treaty, only 16 did so to the Moon Treaty. They include countries such as Austria, Kazakhstan and Uruguay, but, critically, none that have space exploration capability. The legal waters got a lot hotter last year with the U.S. Space Act, which allows "U.S. citizens to engage in the commercial exploration and exploitation of space resources" but not "biological life". If you find an alien, in other words, you're not allowed to keep it, assuming that it's not a lot more evolved than humans and doesn't want to keep you. This is where Luxembourg comes in. "Luxembourg is the first European country to announce its intention to set out a formal legal framework which ensures that private operators working in space can be confident about their rights to the resources they extract," according to the formal press statement issued on Feb. 3 this year. The country said it is "eager to work with other countries" on a multilateral agreement on asteroid rights, but the prospect of several countries passing their own legislation raises the spectre of space mining becoming a new wild west land grab. A somewhat dystopian view not helped by Schneider's comparison of space mining to fishing, whereby "fishermen own the fish they catch, but they do not own the ocean". So if you still think asteroid mining is science fiction, consider the very earthy prospect of the first would-be trillionaire immediately being sued by just about everyone else. Brazil justice minister to quit as Lula probe tension grows -papers RIO DE JANEIRO, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Brazil's Justice Minister Jose Eduardo Cardoso plans to resign, fed up with rising attacks from his Workers' Party over a police probe into the activities of former Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, two Brazilian newspapers reported Sunday. Cardoso will quit this week, Folha de S.Paulo said. Cardoso, who took office with Lula's PT successor Dilma Rousseff at the beginning of her first term in 2011. Leading members of Cardoso's party, known by its Portuguese initials PT, have raised pressure on the minister in recent days after Lula was notified that Brazilian courts plan to subpoena his bank, telephone and financial records, Folha and the Estado de S.Paulo reported. Lula, the PT's historic leader, a five-time PT presidential candidate and two term president from 2003 to 2010, has come under investigation in the wake of a giant and widening corruption scandal at state-led oil company Petroleo Brasileiro SA. Lula has already faced police questioning over the financial dealings of his children and friends and now faces questioning of his alleged ownership of a beach-front penthouse triplex and country estate. The penthouse and country home were allegedly renovated by construction companies involved in the price-fixing, bribery and political kickback scandal at Petrobras, as the oil company is known. Lula has said the properties don't belong to him. On Satuday, Lula lashed out at the subpoenas. "If this is the price people must pay to prove their innocence, I'll do it," Lula said referring to the subpoenas. "The only thing I want is that afterward they give me a good conduct certificate, because I doubt there is anyone more honest than I am in the country." A justice ministry spokeswoman declined to comment. Aides to Rousseff could not be reached. Cardoso, a lawyer and law professor, is recovering from lymphatic cancer. Cardoso is upset over PT allegations that he has failed to control a political witch hunt against Lula and other government allies. Cardoso has said he has no authority to restrict investigations without evidence police violated a person's rights, Estado reported. A Cardoso resignation would come as pressure mounts on both Lula and Rousseff after last week's arrest of Joao Santana, a political consultant who ran Rousseff's two successful presidential campaigns and is the protege of the man who ran Lula's successful presidential bids. Climate information may be key weapon in fight against Zika spread By Megan Rowling BARCELONA, Feb 29 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - In the Caribbean island state of Barbados, rainwater collection has been promoted as a way to boost scarce supplies of fresh water. But there's a catch: environmental health officers then reported an increase in mosquitoes breeding in household water storage tanks. In a country battling a high rate of dengue fever and some recently detected cases of Zika, controlling the population of the Aedes aegypti mosquito - which transmits both viruses to humans - is a high priority. Diarmid Campbell-Lendrum, team leader for climate change and health with the World Health Organization (WHO) in Geneva, says there is a cheap and easy answer: covering rainwater tanks with mosquito nets. But first the connection between climate and health issues must be made - and that doesn't always happen. In Barbados, it did. The country was one of seven to take part in the first global project on adapting public health systems to climate change, launched by the WHO and the U.N. Development Programme in 2010. Key aims of the work in Barbados were to improve water storage facilities to eliminate mosquitoes, give technical advice on building and maintaining water tanks, and raise public awareness about safe ways to harvest rainwater. "It is about healthy urban planning - whereby your urban design, and your water and sanitation services all take into account the health risks and opportunities that arise," said Campbell-Lendrum. Pressure to analyse the health impacts of climate change and extreme weather - and to explore how efforts to deal with climate stresses could themselves shape health risks - is increasing as Zika gathers pace. WHO figures show that active Zika outbreaks have been reported in around 40 countries or territories since the start of 2015, with three quarters of them in the Americas. In that region, the Aedes mosquito is found in all countries except Canada and continental Chile, according to the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO). The Zika infection itself produces none or only mild symptoms in many cases, but scientists are trying to establish whether it causes microcephaly in babies, a condition in which infants are born with unusually small heads and can suffer developmental problems. Zika also has been associated with Guillain-Barre syndrome, a rare disorder in which the body's immune system attacks part of the nervous system. There is no treatment or vaccine for Zika infection, and the WHO has said it will take at least 18 months to start large-scale clinical trials of preventative shots. That means the focus for now is on understanding where and how the virus is likely to spread, eliminating mosquito breeding sites - from water tanks to flower pots, gutters and used tyres - and taking precautions against mosquito bites. EL NINO INFLUENCE? Climate scientists have a role to play in the fight against Zika because mosquito-borne infections are strongly affected by weather and climate conditions, Campbell-Lendrum said. It remains unclear if and how climate change and the powerful El Nino weather phenomenon that has brought drought and floods to different parts of the world in recent months may have influenced the spread of Zika, he added. "But it is certainly highly plausible that these unusual weather conditions have made it easier to transmit the virus," he told the Thomson Reuters Foundation. Meteorologists have warned that El Nino, a warming of Pacific Ocean surface waters, could be succeeded later in the year by its opposite - La Nina - which also causes extreme weather around the globe. That is something scientists will need to monitor closely in the coming months, matching projections of climatic conditions that favour breeding of Aedes mosquitoes with information on where people from places with the infection are travelling. Erin Coughlan de Perez of the Red Cross Red Crescent Climate Centre said that as knowledge grows about the links between climate factors and Zika, it could be used to target public health measures in at-risk areas, to head off outbreaks. IMPROVING RESPONSE In a January report on the health impacts of El Nino, the WHO warned that above-average rainfall was expected in parts of South America until May - particularly Ecuador, Peru, Paraguay, Uruguay, Brazil and Argentina. That could cause floods and increases in vector-borne diseases such as malaria, dengue, chikungunya and Zika, said the report - the first of its kind. "We are paying much more attention to the links between climate and weather and health, and trying to use this information and this understanding to improve the response," the WHO's Campbell-Lendrum said. Madeleine Thomson, a senior scientist with the International Research Institute for Climate and Society, said it is now increasingly accepted that climate factors need to be a core consideration for the health sector, but the resources to put that into practice have yet to follow. The fact that global warming will make populations in some parts of the world more vulnerable to mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika "is not rocket science", she said. "The key thing is how do we use that knowledge to better control Zika and other emerging infectious diseases that will come down the pipeline?" Thomson will attend a meeting called by PAHO in Washington this week to define the public health research agenda for Zika, which is expected to include weather and climate influences. The researcher noted that scientists will have to draw on what they already know about dengue, given that Zika is likely transmitted by the same mosquito species. URBAN SLUMS Dengue - which causes flu-like symptoms and can develop into the deadly dengue haemorrhagic fever - is the world's fastest-spreading tropical disease, with the annual number of cases increasing 30-fold in the last 50 years, according to the WHO. The failure to control dengue is rooted partly in the fact that the mosquitoes thrive in small amounts of stagnant water in urban areas, and their eggs can survive dry seasons. Unplanned urbanisation favours the transmission of dengue and Zika, experts say. That's a problem at a time when the world's cities are mushrooming, particularly in poorer countries with slums that lack a reliable water supply and decent housing. "It's really a recipe for disaster, for increasing disaster risk - and it reinforces the need for us to get out ahead of this with effective planning," said Robert Glasser, head of the U.N. Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNISDR). The spread of Zika has shown that the emergence of a virus or disease can affect all countries, including rich ones, making international cooperation, early detection and rapid response systems essential, he added. A new global agreement to prevent disasters, adopted in Sendai, Japan, last March, included the need to address biological hazards such as pandemics - largely in response to the outbreak of Ebola in West Africa. But efforts to join up ministries and agencies working separately on health and disasters are still at an early stage, with a conference due to bring them together in Bangkok next month. Hungary, Factors to watch, Feb 29 BUDAPEST, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Following is a list of events in Hungary and the region, as well as news stories and press reports which may influence financial markets. (For any queries: Budapest editorial +36 1 327 4745) WHAT IS HAPPENING IN HUNGARY (ALL TIMES GMT) BUDAPEST - PPI, Jan (0800) BUDAPEST - PM Orban addresses annual gathering of Hungarian diplomats (0830) IN THE REGION POLAND - GDP, Q4 (0900) BULGARIA - PPI, Jan (0900) CZECH - Money supply, Jan (0900) SLOVAKIA - C/A, Dec (1330) IN THE NEWS REUTERS ANALYSIS-EU's Tower of Babel may fall while leaders distracted It's little wonder the European Union can't find common solutions to Europe's urgent problems when its main members are having such different national conversations. Hungary's 'Son of Saul' wins Oscar for best foreign language film The Hungarian movie "Son of Saul," a harrowing Holocaust drama, won the Oscar on Sunday for best foreign language film. Hungarian PM vows to resist EU's "misguided" migrant policy Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban condemned on Sunday the European Union's failure to get to grips with its migrant crisis and vowed to resist pressure to take in more migrants, saying they would bring crime, terrorism and other problems. Greece seeks to stem migrant flow as thousands trapped by border limits Greece moved to slow the flow of migrants from its islands to the mainland on Friday as thousands of homeless refugees were trapped in the country by border limits imposed along a Balkan route to richer nations in northern Europe. Slovenian police: regional agreement will limit migrant flow Police chiefs of Slovenia, Austria, Macedonia, Serbia and Croatia have agreed to limit the flow of migrants to about 580 per day per country, Slovenian police said on Friday. Hungary raps EU, sees migrant quota referendum in 150 days at earliest Hungary's justice minister accused the EU on Friday of overstepping its mandate by seeking to impose migrant resettlement quotas on member states and said Budapest could hold its planned referendum on the issue in 150 days at the earliest. Hungary's jobless rate steady at 6.2 pct in Nov-Jan PRESS DIGEST - Bulgaria - Feb 29 SOFIA, Feb 29 (Reuters) - These are some of the main stories in Bulgarian newspapers on Monday. Reuters has not verified these stories and does not vouch for their accuracy. 24 CHASA - The migrants that have entered the country illegally through the Bulgarian-Turkish border last year are twice as many as those who sought refugee status at the border, data from the interior ministry showed. Over 30,000 migrants entered Bulgaria in 2015. -- Police carried out a operation against fuel smuggling in 16 Bulgarian towns, closing down several petrol filling stations after finding shortcomings in the way they were run. Some 29,000 tonnes of fuels were banned from selling, the interior ministry said. (24 Chasa, Standart, Monitor, Trud) -- Bulgarian farmers have lost about 300 million levs ($167.88 million) in revenues due to the embargo on Russia, Agriculture Minister Desislava Taneva said. (Duma, Standart) CAPITAL DAILY - Two bank consortia have file bids to provide bridge-to-bond loan of up to 650 million euros to Bulgarian state energy holding company BEH, it said. N. Korea says U.S. student confessed to theft of item with propaganda slogan By James Pearson and Jack Kim SEOUL, Feb 29 (Reuters) - A U.S. student held in North Korea since early January was detained for trying to steal an item bearing a propaganda slogan from his Pyongyang hotel and has confessed to "severe crimes" against the state, the North's official media said on Monday. Otto Warmbier, 21, a University of Virginia student, was detained before boarding his flight to China over an unspecified incident at his hotel, his tour agency told Reuters in January. North Korea has a long history of detaining foreigners and has used jailed U.S. citizens in the past to exact high-profile visits from the United States, with which it has no formal diplomatic relations. "I committed the crime of taking out a political slogan from the staff-only area of the Yanggakdo International Hotel," the North's KCNA news agency quoted Warmbier as telling media in Pyongyang, the North Korean capital. It did not say what the item was. CNN showed video of a sobbing Warmbier saying: "I have made the worst mistake of my life, but please act to save me." Warmbier said a "deaconess" had offered him a used car worth $10,000 if he could present a U.S. church with the slogan as a "trophy" from North Korea, KCNA said. The acquaintance also said the church would pay his mother $200,000 if he was detained by the North and did not return, KCNA quoted Warmbier as saying. "My crime is very severe and pre-planned," Warmbier was quoted as saying, adding that he was impressed by North Korea's "humanitarian treatment of severe criminals like myself." The White House said on Monday it was aware of Warmbier's situation and was working closely with Sweden, the United States' protecting power in North Korea, to learn as much as it can about Warmbier's detention. "There's no greater priority for the administration than the welfare and safety of U.S. citizens abroad," White House spokesman Josh Earnest told a daily briefing. Warmbier's parents have not heard from him since his arrest, according to a statement from his family provided by the University of Virginia. "I hope the fact that he has conveyed his sincere apology for anything that he may have done wrong will now make it possible for the DPRK (North Korea) authorities to allow him to return home," the statement said. "I urge the DPRK government to consider his youth and make an important humanitarian gesture by allowing him to return to his loved ones." Other Westerners detained in North Korea previously have confessed to crimes against the state. North Korea's state media said in January that Warmbier "was caught committing a hostile act against the state", which it said was "tolerated and manipulated by the U.S. government". The senior pastor at Friendship United Methodist Church in Wyoming, Ohio, told CNN he did not know the person identified by Warmbier in the KCNA story as a deaconess there, and said Warmbier was not a member of the congregation. Warmbier, a member of the Theta Chi fraternity at the University of Virginia, is studying economics with a minor in global sustainability, according to his Linkedin page. Members of the fraternity were not immediately available for comment. Warmbier was a finance and operations intern at Finishing Technology, his father's firm, from June 2010 to August 2013, and helped run a student investment fund at the University of Virginia, according to his Linkedin profile. He also took a class at the London School of Economics and Political Science in 2015. According to KCNA, Warmbier said he was encouraged in his act by a member of the Z Society, an elite philanthropic organization that he hoped to join at the university. An official in the university's communications office could not immediately be reached for comment. Warmbier grew up in Wyoming, Ohio, northeast of Cincinnati. He attended Wyoming High School, where he was the salutatorian of his graduating class and was named student of the year, according to Linkedin. A district spokeswoman declined to speak about his time at the school. Warmbier was active in swimming when he was younger, according to a blog operated by a local athletic booster organization, and he volunteered as a coach for a local children's swim team. Warmbier, on a five-day New Year's tour of North Korea with a group of 20, was delayed at immigration before being taken away by two airport officials, according to a tour operator that had sponsored the trip. While most tourists to North Korea are from China, roughly 6,000 Westerners visit annually, though the United States and Canada advise against it. Most are curious about life behind the last sliver of the iron curtain and ignore critics who say their dollars prop up a repressive regime. Romania - Factors to watch on Feb 29 BUCHAREST, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Here are news stories, press reports and events to watch which may affect Romanian financial markets on Monday. DEBT The finance ministry is expected to unveil domestic debt issuance plans for March. CEE MARKETS The zloty hit a six-week high against the euro on Friday as dovish comments from other central banks in Central Europe made Polish assets look relatively more attractive. For the long-term Romanian diary, click on For emerging markets economic events, click on For an index of all diaries, click on Mahathir quits Malaysia's ruling UMNO party, protesting corruption KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Malaysia's former premier Mahathir Mohamad said on Monday he is quitting the ruling United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) party, as it is being seen as "supporting corruption" under Prime Minister Najib Razak's leadership. Mahathir, Malaysia's longest-serving leader, remains a highly respected and influential figure and has become the fiercest critic of Najib, who is facing pressure over a graft scandal surrounding state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). "I won't call it UMNO anymore, this is Najib's party. I feel embarrassed that I am associated with a party that is seen as supporting corruption - it had caused me to feel ashamed," he told reporters at a press conference. Mahathir quits Malaysia's ruling UMNO party, protesting corruption By Rozanna Latiff KUALA LUMPUR, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Former Malaysian premier Mahathir Mohamad on Monday quit the ruling United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) party, saying it is being seen as "supporting corruption" under Prime Minister Najib Razak's leadership. Mahathir, Malaysia's longest-serving leader, remains an influential figure and has become the fiercest critic of Najib, who is facing pressure over a graft scandal surrounding state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). "I won't call it UMNO anymore, this is Najib's party. I feel embarrassed that I am associated with a party that is seen as supporting corruption - it had caused me to feel ashamed," Mahathir told reporters. Najib's office had no immediate comment. Communications Minister Salleh Said Keruak said in a blog that if Mahathir wants to continue to attack UMNO "then he should do so outside UMNO". Ibrahim Suffian from Merdeka Center, an independent opinion polling firm, said Mahathir's exit will have limited short-term impact on UMNO. "But in the longer term, he may create problems by taking his stage to the larger Malaysian electorate," he said. The 90-year-old Mahathir, premier from 1981 to 2003, said he would not set up a new party or join another party. But he said he would set up a "core group" to work on removing the prime minister, adding that with opposition parties, "we only agree on one thing, that is to get rid of Najib." STRIFE IN THE PARTY The prime minister has a comfortable majority in parliament. His greatest threat comes from within UMNO, if members decide he cannot lead the party to victory in elections that are due by 2018. Internal strife has damaged UMNO, the leader of the country's ruling multi-ethnic coalition since Malaysia's formation in 1957. Najib has been tightening his grip over UMNO, amid growing calls by detractors in the party, and the opposition, for him to step down over allegations of graft at 1MDB and revelations of transfers into his bank account. Supporters of Najib forced Mahathir's son Mukhriz to step down as chief minister of Kedah state and UMNO last week suspended its deputy president Muhyiddin Yassin, seen as a Mahathir ally, for criticising Najib. This is the second time Mahathir has quit UMNO. He resigned after the ruling coalition lost its two-thirds majority in parliament in the 2008 elections. In 2009, Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi was replaced by Najib, prompting Mahathir to rejoin. In July, the Wall Street Journal reported that investigators looking into indebted 1MDB had found that nearly $700 million had been transferred into a personal bank account in Najib's name. Budget airline pioneer Stelios calls for removal of Fastjet CEO By Esha Vaish Feb 29 (Reuters) - Stelios Haji-Ioannou, Fastjet Plc's second-largest shareholder, called for an investor meeting for the immediate dismissal of the African budget airline's Chief Executive Ed Winter. Haji-Ioannou, whose private investment vehicle easyGroup has a 12 percent stake in Fastjet, said Winter had created significant overheads for the company, resulting in a high cost base that was disproportionate to its six aircraft fleet. "At the current cash burn rate we believe the company will run out of cash sometime in 2016," said Haji-Ioannou in a letter on Monday. "We now have about six months left to steady this ship. Time is of the essence." Fastjet in a separate statement said it felt it had made considerable progress towards its goal to become the first low-cost pan-African airline "despite facing significant challenges outside its control". The budget carrier said in December that it was taking steps to manage its operating costs and overheads, after issuing its second warning on full-year 2015 revenue. Currently operating from bases in Tanzania and Zimbabwe, Fastjet has aspired to undercut larger carriers by offering "no frills" services, replicating a model pioneered by European airlines like easyJet and Ryanair. A spokesman for Fastjet declined to comment further, when asked about Haji-Ioannou's proposals. Haji-Ioannou, commonly known as Stelios, started Fastjet in 2012 along with Winter, after his relationship with easyJet Plc , the low-cost carrier he founded in 1995, turned turbulent. Winter was easyJet's chief operating officer earlier. Haji-Ioannou is no stranger to activism and has over the past years frequently disagreed with easyJet over issues such as fleet expansion, executive pay and dividend policy. Haji-Ioannou said on Monday Winter should be removed immediately and Non-Executive Chairman Colin Child should handle an executive position until a replacement was appointed. He also said he would also seek the removal of Krista Bates as a board director. The news comes just over a month after Fastjet said Winter intended to step down as CEO, but did not give any clarity around the timing of his imminent exit. Syria ceasefire task force meets, France wants answers on violations By John Irish and Stephanie Nebehay GENEVA, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Countries sponsoring the Syria peace process met in Geneva on Monday amid complaints that a new cessation of hostilities deal was quickly unravelling, with France demanding information about reports of persisting attacks on rebel positions. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said that the cessation arrangement was holding by and large but the peace group, meeting for the first time since the pact took force early on Saturday, was trying to ensure fresh clashes did not spread. "We have received indications that attacks, including by air, have been continuing against zones controlled by the moderate opposition," French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault told reporters at the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva. "All this needs to be verified. France has therefore demanded that the task force charged with overseeing the cessation of hostilities meet without delay." A spokesman for the Saudi-backed opposition High Negotiations Committee (HNC) said the cessation of hostilities was broken by Syrian government forces 15 times within the first day, and that there were further violations by Russia and Hezbollah, both allies of President Bashar al-Assad. The countries belonging to the "International Syria Support Group" (ISSG), led by the United States and Russia, are supposed to monitor compliance with the deal and act rapidly to end any flare-ups, while using force only as a last resort. U.N. Syria envoy Staffan de Mistura said violations would be discussed, but he declined to comment on reports of poison gas attacks. Russia's TASS news agency quoted Alexey Borodavkin, Russia's ambassador in Geneva, as saying the task force meeting was previously planned. "The Russian and United States militaries are in constant contact and in actual fact conducted meetings over the weekend," he said. HNC spokesman Salim al-Muslat said on Sunday it was still unclear how the system was supposed to function. Asaad al-Zoubi, head of the HNC's delegation to peace talks, said the cessation had collapsed from the outset and it faced "complete nullification", Al Arabiya al Hadath TV reported. A Western diplomat said De Mistura was saying that the number of air strikes had fallen from 100 to about 6-8 a day, so there needed to be some perspective about the situation. "We need to get an explanation from the Russians on the strikes that took place on Sunday," the diplomat added. Barclays Africa tumbles as British parent signals exit By Tiisetso Motsoeneng JOHANNESBURG, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Speculation that Barclays could be withdrawing from Africa after almost a century there sent shares in its business Barclays Africa Group tumbling on Monday. The British bank said on Sunday its board was evaluating strategic options for its 62.3 percent stake in the African business, a holding worth about $8.3 billion, and will give details about its plans on Tuesday. Shares in Barclays Africa, which is based in South Africa and also operates in nine other countries, dropped 6.8 percent on Monday before recouping some losses to trade down 5.5 percent at 1440 GMT. The review comes within months of Jes Staley taking over as chief executive of the British lender, at a time when it is required by regulators at home to hold more liquid assets to shore up defences against any future financial crises. Once at the heart of executives' expansion plans, Africa's growth prospects were dealt a blow in mid 2014 when prices of oil and other commodities - export mainstays of many economies - dived, partly due to a slowdown in leading consumer China. Staley's review also came after South African President Jacob Zuma decided to change his finance minister twice in less than a week in December, at a time when the economy is under severe stress, raising questions about Pretoria's commitment to prudent fiscal policy. While the African company accounted for 13 percent of Barclays' core profit in the first nine months of 2015, its earnings growth was the slowest among the British lender's main businesses in that period. Analysts and bankers said the share price drop was mainly driven by investor expectations that any sale of such a large stake in Barclays Africa would be conducted at below market prices. "Barclays could not have picked the worse time to sell. Apart from the standard discount the sale of major stakes, they will struggle to find buyers," said a Johannesburg-based banker, who declined to be named as he is not authorised to speak publicly. 'YOUR MONEY IS SAFE' Fund manager Korner Perspective director Graeme Korner said there was little appetite in the market for a major banking transaction also said finding a buyer for such a large stake would be challenging. "Unless there is a really powerful player that has a deep balance sheet and can add strategic value to Barclays Africa its not in the interest of minority shareholders to see it passed on to somebody else," he said. But another banker, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, said Chinese banks might be best placed to do a deal because they had stronger balance sheets than their European or U.S. counterparts. "But $8 billion is not a small change for anyone so there's stronger likelihood that Barclays will sell down rather a complete exit," he said. Barclays Africa said any announcement by its parent would not affect its operations, while its Kenyan division assured customers it would not be shutting down. "I assure you that your money is safe with us and you should not be concerned about the operation of your account," said Kenyan Managing Director Jeremy Awori. Barclays has had a presence in Africa since 1925. Barclays Africa was created three years ago under a deal in which the British bank handed over ownership of its businesses in eight African countries to its South African subsidiary in exchange for a 62.3 percent stake in the new entity. The company makes most of its profit and revenue in South Africa and also operates in Kenya, Botswana, Ghana, Zambia, Mauritius, Mozambique, Seychelles, Uganda and Tanzania. It had 36 billion pounds ($54 billion) of assets on a risk-adjusted basis and made a profit of 791 million pounds ($1.1 billion) in the first nine months of 2015 Barclays also has small businesses in Egypt and Zimbabwe which are not part of Barclays Africa; it tried to sell them to Barclays Africa after the 2013 deal, but talks fell through due to disagreements about the price. ($1 = 0.7208 pounds) Suicide bombings kill 40 in eastern Iraq, eight west of Baghdad BAGHDAD, Feb 29 (Reuters) - At least 40 people were killed by a suicide bomber at a funeral in Iraq's eastern province of Diyala while a suicide blast at a security checkpoint in Baghdad's western outskirts killed eight members of the security forces, police said on Monday. The larger attack in Muqdadiya, 80 km (50 miles) northeast of Baghdad, killed six local commanders of the Hashid Shaabi umbrella group of Shi'ite militias who were attending the funeral of a commander's relative, security officials and police in Diyala said. A further 58 people were wounded, the sources said. Islamic State, an ultra-hardline Sunni group that controls large parts of northern and western Iraq, claimed responsibility for the blast, according to a statement posted on the SITE monitoring group's Twitter account. The killing of the commanders, four of whom were from the Asaib Ahl al-Haq militia and two from the Badr Organisation, is likely to inflame sectarian tensions in the mixed province. Security officials and witnesses said the situation inside Muqdadiya was tense, with dozens of Shi'ite militia members out on the streets but few security forces. The town's police chief was wounded in clashes with militia fighters who had tried to seize suspected Islamic State militants from a prison in Muqdadiya, police sources said. Militia elements have been accused of attacking Sunni Muslim mosques and residents in Diyala following similar bombings in January, but the groups have denied the allegations and blamed Islamic State. Iraqi officials declared victory over the Sunni insurgents in Diyala a year ago. While it no longer controls significant territory in the eastern province bordering Iran, Islamic State has remained active there. A separate attack in the western Baghdad outskirts of Abu Ghraib followed an offensive by Islamic State militants on army and police positions in the same area on Sunday which left 24 people dead but was eventually repelled by counter-terrorism forces and army attack helicopters. Suicide bomber kills four in Yemen's Aden city- security source, residents ADEN, Feb 29 (Reuters) - A suicide bomber killed four soldiers on Monday when he rammed a car laden with explosives into a military checkpoint in Aden, residents and a security official said. Several soldiers were also wounded in the attack at al-Mimdara neighbourhood in Sheikh Othman district, northeast of Aden, but they gave no precise figure. No one claimed responsibility for the attack, but it appears to resemble previous bombings carried out by the Yemeni branch of Islamic State that have targeted security forces or senior officials in Aden since supporters of President Abd-Rabbu Mansour Hadi retook the city from Iran-allied Houthis last year. The embattled Yemen government is based in Aden and has struggled to build up a national military and pay its bills, including to fighters who have fought on its behalf, as al Qaeda and Islamic State militants have taken advantage of 10 months of civil war to expand their presence in the second largest city. In fighting on Sunday, local militiamen and soldiers guarding the presidential palace fought hours of gunbattles over unpaid medical bills and compensations for guards in an attack outside the palace last month. Local fighters said on Monday that eight people from both sides died, while seven others were wounded. Japan firms to take part in Egyptian projects worth $18 bln TOKYO, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Japanese companies are set to take part in Egyptian projects worth about 2 trillion yen ($17.7 billion) in the electricity and other sectors, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said on Monday after meeting Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi in Tokyo. He did not elaborate on the projects, but an official at Japan's Foreign Ministry said Japanese and Egyptian companies are scheduled to sign more than 10 memorandums of agreement on Wednesday. The announcement comes when Egypt is struggling to revive its economy after the 2011 uprising and subsequent unrest have driven away foreign investors and tourists. Abe's government drives exports of social infrastructure such as railway systems and power generation systems to the Middle East and other regions as part of its growth strategy. The leaders agreed to hold dialogue between their Defence and Foreign Ministry officials periodically to strengthen security ties. "We've reached an agreement to bolster our cooperation to eradicate terrorism and extremism, which have transcended particular regions or national borders and have come to pose a threat to peace and security of the international community," Sisi said at the joint news conference with Abe. Report of lions loose in Kenyan capital false - wildlife service NAIROBI, Feb 29 (Reuters) - The Kenya Wildlife Service said on Monday that an earlier report that two lions were on the loose in the Kenyan capital Nairobi had turned out to be false. "Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) would like to confirm that there was no sighting or any signs of lions at the Ngong road forest as earlier reported," it said in a statement. Animals occasionally escape from Nairobi National Park, a sprawling reserve that has come under increasing pressure from rapid urban growth. The park is mostly fenced off around the city, but there are gaps to allow the animals to migrate. Previous incidents have brought rush-hour traffic to a standstill. In mid-February, several lions were spotted in a residential area and were captured in the middle of the night. Living in filth, Greece's migrants battle hunger and cold By Lefteris Papadimas ATHENS, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Mohammed Asif and his family have no food, no shelter and no security. "Home", for now, is a thin green blanket spread over a piece of plastic on a pavement in a grimy neighbourhood of the Greek capital. Asif, who though 43 looks at least 20 years older, is one of thousands of Afghans trapped in Greece, their hopes of reaching sanctuary in northern Europe dashed by a cascade of border shutdowns from Austria to Macedonia. "We are desperate. We left Afghanistan because we are Hazaras and the Taliban threatened to kill us, my entire family," he told Reuters. "What will we do now?" Most of the 400 Afghans vying for limited pavement space in Athens' Victoria Square are Hazaras, an ethnic minority who have long suffered discrimination and persecution back home, with thousands massacred by Taliban militias in the 1990s. Asif, his wife and their two children, aged 10 and 13, have been sleeping rough for three days. The Greek state, inundated by an influx of trapped refugees which was at the last count at least 22,000, is clearly absent from Victoria, a once upmarket area of Athens that has now sunk into disrepute. Drug dealing and prostitution are rampant. There are no public facilities and soiled nappies are strewn on a sidewalk next to bins brimming with rubbish. A Christian charity distributes biscuits and orange juice, and the occasional local turns up with a saucepan of food. "A BETTER FUTURE" Further down, young mothers with month-old babies sat on the sidewalk. A man held a child aged about 10 in his arms, looking stonily ahead. "I'll stay here until Macedonia opens its borders," said Ali Khan Ranjbar, 28, from Ghazni, a city in central Afghanistan and a Hazara like Asif. As of Feb. 20, crossings of Afghans to Macedonia have ceased, with witnesses reporting migrants being forcibly removed from border outposts and sent by buses back to Athens. On Monday Macedonian police fired tear gas to disperse hundreds of migrants who stormed the border from Greece as a deeply divided Europe traded barbs over how to tackle its biggest humanitarian crisis in decades. According to United Nations data, about a quarter of the one million refugees and migrants who fled their homes to head to Europe last year were Afghans. "I don't have any more money. I paid $10,000 to get to Europe ... I want to go to Germany or Sweden or Austria for my kids to have a better future," said Asif. Syria truce offers chance for aid but still needs local negotiation - UN aid chief By Tom Esslemont LONDON, Feb 29 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - The cessation of hostilities drawn up by Washington and Moscow offers a chance to supply aid to the half a million Syrians living under siege, but negotiations with warring parties must first be successful, the U.N. aid chief said on Monday. "Access still requires negotiation by (the U.N. resident coordinator in Damascus) Yacoub El Hillo and others with the Syrian government, with Hezbollah, with local militia," Stephen O'Brien said in an interview. "The danger is you don't negotiate with either party and a sniper takes a shot right through your head as you are driving the truck." The cessation of hostilities, the first of its kind since the war began in 2011, is a less formal arrangement than a ceasefire. It is meant to allow peace talks to resume and aid to reach besieged communities. The United Nations said on Sunday together with partner aid organisations it planned to deliver life-saving aid to 154,000 Syrians in besieged areas in the coming days. O'Brien said he was waiting to hear if trucks had gained access to Moadamiya, a Damascus suburb, on Monday. He said further convoys were planned to Madaya and Zabadani, near the Lebanese border, which have been under siege by government forces and the villages of Foua and Kufraya in Idlib province, which he said have been besieged by rebel fighters. The U.N. estimates there are nearly 500,000 people in around 15 besieged areas of Syria, and 4.6 million people in hard-to-reach areas. In some, starvation deaths and severe malnutrition have been reported. But the estimate is less than half the figure put forward by a group of 19 Syrian non-governmental organisations known as the Syrian NGO Alliance (SNA). "Over one million people are living in 46 besieged communities in Damascus, rural Damascus, Homs, Deir Ezzor, and Idlib," said the SNA in a statement. The statement said the U.N. should amend the classification of besieged areas. But O'Brien, speaking on the fringes of a conference in London, organised by Bond, an umbrella group of humanitarian charities, said the U.N. should not get bogged down in "semantics". "The U.N. has very clear definition of what is 'besieged'. It is not particularly productive if NGOs or the U.N. get concerned about their own definition," he said. "What matters is they are all ... difficult to reach, they are all suffering and it is our job to get to them." A senior official from Syria's main opposition group said on Monday that the attempt to halt nearly five years of fighting was in danger of total collapse because of attacks by government forces. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said the pause in the fighting was largely holding. Syrian army takes land east of Damascus during fragile truce BEIRUT, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Syrian armed forces took territory east of Damascus on Monday, the Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said, on the third day of a fragile international attempt to halt nearly five years of fighting. A Syrian rebel spokesman said this was a violation of the truce deal in place. The Observatory said that Syrian government forces took control of a strategically important piece of land between two neighbourhoods in the eastern Ghouta suburb of Damascus. The capture of the land between Beit Nayim and Harasta al-Qantara came after Syrian and allied forces fought Islamist factions and the al Qaeda-linked Nusra Front for around 24 hours, the Observatory said. A fragile truce came into force in Syria early on Saturday, but the main opposition group has said that the deal could collapse because of continuing attacks by government forces. Abu Ghiath al-Shami, spokesman for the Alwiyat Seif al-Sham group, part of a rebel alliance in the south, said government forces had been trying to storm the area in eastern Ghouta since the first day of the truce. "This is a clear violation of the ceasefire," Shami said. The cessation of hostilities, drawn up by Washington and Moscow, is a less formal arrangement than a ceasefire and is meant to allow peace talks to resume and aid to reach besieged communities. The agreement does not include jihadist groups, such as Islamic State and the Nusra Front, and Russia --which is supporting Syrian forces with air attacks -- has made clear it intends to keep bombing them. Cuban cigar-maker says overcoming bad weather with better seeds By Daniel Trotta HAVANA, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Cuban cigar monopoly Habanos S.A. has compensated for a series of bad harvests by using genetically improved seeds and the renewal of weather-damaged land in Cuba's western tobacco-growing region, company officials said on Monday. The weather phenomena El Nino led to Cuba's worst drought in a century in 2015, followed by heavy rain during the northern winter, which is normally a dry period in Cuba. That has raised concerns among farmers and aficionados that the island's supply of its famous cigars might suffer at a time of increased demand resulting from detente with the United States. Unusual weather has also affected competitors elsewhere in the Caribbean, said Leopoldo Cintra, commercial vice-president of Habanos. The industry in Cuba has compensated with a "comprehensive plan" including genetically improved seeds that produce tobacco plants more resistant to drought and unseasonable rains. Cintra also mentioned unspecified technology and the "recovery" of land. Farmers have reported replanting crops wiped out by rain. Cigar experts say this year's annual harvest, which is coming to an end in March, will be the fourth substandard harvest in a row, a claim Habanos executives did not dispute. "We think the impact will be minimal," said Javier Terres, vice-president of development, who joined Cintra at a news conference to begin Cuba's annual cigar festival. "What's more, we think ... there will be a positive recovery in our business," Terres said. Habanos, a joint venture between the Cuban state and Imperial Brands PLC, does not report production figures. It said revenues reached $428 million in 2015, a four percent increase versus 2014 when measured at a constant exchange rate. The company says it has a global market share of 70 percent excluding the United States, where Cuban products remain illegal. U.S. President Barack Obama and Cuban President Raul Castro announced in December 2014 they would seek to normalize relations after more than half a century of Cold War animosity. Detente has led to international buzz about Cuba and a tourism boom. The number of visitors rose 17.4 percent to 3.52 million in 2015, with American visitors up 77 percent to 161,000. That had a negligible impact on sales but was good for branding, Cintra said. The real impediment to sales is the U.S. embargo, which Obama wants to remove but Congress has left in place. Argentina says to take debt deal to Congress this week BUENOS AIRES, Feb 29 (Reuters) - Argentina will take its debt deal with leading holdout creditors to Congress for approval this week and hopes to sell up to $15 billion in bonds in April to finance the payment, Finance Minister Alfonso Prat-Gay said on Monday. Prat-Gay said that Argentina was already in talks with banks over the debt sale on global markets. Argentina has reached separate accords with other holdout creditors. "We hope that if Congress reaches a decision quickly ... we will probably be able to go to the market in April," Prat-Gay told a news conference. Argentina, which defaulted on restructured debt payments in July 2014, and its main holdout creditors have reached a $4.65 billion agreement in principle to settle a 14-year-old sovereign debt battle. U.S. judge blocks Indiana governor's order barring Syrian refugees Feb 29 (Reuters) - A U.S. judge on Monday blocked Indiana Governor Mike Pence's order barring state officials from helping Syrian refugees resettle in the state, saying it was discriminatory. Pence was among more than 25 U.S. governors, mostly Republicans, who called on President Barack Obama to stop resettling refugees fleeing Syria's civil war after November attacks by militants in Paris that killed 130. Governors have cited concerns that some refugees could be associated with Islamic State, which claimed responsibility for the attacks. The suit brought by the American Civil Liberties Union on behalf of Exodus Refugee Immigration Inc was among the first challenging governors' moves to block resettlement. "The State's conduct clearly discriminates against Syrian refugees based on their national origin," U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt said in a ruling granting the preliminary injunction. She added that withholding federal grant money from Exodus did not advance Indiana officials' assertions that they were barring refugees for safety reasons. Indiana Attorney General Greg Zoeller plans to appeal the decision and will seek a stay of Pratt's order, a spokesman for the attorney general's office said in a statement. The ACLU had contended that decisions on immigration and refugee resettlement were exclusively the province of the federal government and could not be dictated by state officials. Indiana had argued that Exodus, a nonprofit that gets federal money to resettle refugees, lacked standing to assert refugees' rights. The U.S. State Department said in November that a refugee family that had been headed to Indiana was relocated to Connecticut, but did not specify the family's country of origin. After the Paris attacks, the Obama administration stood by its pledge to admit some 10,000 refugees to the United States over the following year. Refugee advocates have noted that candidates for resettlement go through extensive background checks, taking up to two years, before reaching the United States. Tuesday, February 23, WikiLeaks announced publication of secret documents about National Security Agency (NSA)s eavesdropping on US world leaders. According to the portal, the NSA bugged German Chancellor Angela Merkel, the UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, former Prime Minister of Italy Silvio Berlusconi, as well as former French President Nicolas Sarkozy. The documents contain details of a conversation of Ban Ki-moon and the Chancellor Angela Merkel about the fight against climate change, WikiLeaks reports. The media also said that Netanyahu asked Berlusconi to help him to establish contact with US President Barack Obama, and Sarkozy discussed with Berlusconi the poor state of the Italian economy. Previously, WikiLeaks reported that the US NSA surveillance followed not only German Chancellor Angela Merkel, but also for her predecessors Helmut Kohl and Gerhard Schroeder. Thus, the leading German politicians have been subjected to espionage for several decades. Meanwhile, Swedish lawyers of WikiLeaks founder Assange are demanding the cancellation of the arrest warrant. In the argument, they are basing on the UN working groups decision of the illegal detention of their client, according to Swedish news agency TT. The lawyers sent a letter requesting a review of the warrant to the District Court of Stockholm, the Swedish Agency writes. In early February 2016, the UN special working group ruled in favor of Julian Assange and recognized the deprivation of liberty illegal. Prosecutors in Sweden consider that the decision of the UN Working Group on illegal deprivation of liberty has no formal significance in the investigation of Assange suspected of rape in Sweden. Assange was arrested in London in December 2010 at the request of the Swedish law enforcement officials, who insisted on his extradition to Sweden. Recall that in the summer of 2010, Sweden authorities began investigations at the request of two women about sexual harassment commited by Assange. WikiLeaks founder has been sheltering in the Ecuadorian embassy in London since 2012 - when he turned to the Ecuadorian authorities for political asylum for fear of extradition by the Swedish authorities in the United States in connection with his activities in WikiLeaks. The martyrdom of Captain Pawan Kumar and Captain Tushar Mahajan from the elite para forces of the Indian Army - who along with other soldiers, died as they were trying to neutralise LeT terrorists at Jammu and Kashmir Entrepreneurship Development Institute (JKEDI) complex in Kashmir last week - once again reinforces the importance of continuously engaging Pakistan for the greater good, despite frequent attacks from across the border. One must not only salute, but also applaud the courage and brevity displayed by the parents of these young men who sacrificed their today for our better future. In these times of grief, let us also remember the supreme sacrifices of the jawans martyred and also the civilian, who fell to militants' bullets inside the EDI complex. The main building of EDI is in ruins today; it represents what has largely transpired in Kashmir in the last two decades. The institution has emerged in recent times as a beacon of hope for young Kashmiri youth, desperately wanting to fight poverty. The face of this hope is mutilated, and it will be a while before it is back on its feet. At the heart of these fresh attacks is the reason why late Mufti Mohammad Sayeed, the pioneer of the idea of alternative politics in Jammu and Kashmir had, in fact, after forming the government with BJP on March 1, thanked Hurriyat, Pakistan and the militants for allowing a conducive atmosphere for the Assembly polls held in the state. Sayeed's statement had created furor in the media, with hyper-nationalist TV anchors calling him a pro-Pakistan CM, who instead of thanking the apparatus of the Indian state for facilitating the peaceful elections, thanked Pakistan! Throughout his life, Sayeed had maintained that he was an Indian by conviction. However, the truth is hard to swallow, and the Pampore attack is one shade of the truth - non-state actors in Pakistan, if they want to create instability in Kashmir, can do so any time. The peaceful elections and higher voter turnout in all three regions of Jammu and Kashmir during the Assembly polls was a result of the absence of such a disturbance. That is reason the late Jammu and Kashmir chief minister thanked these organisations and Pakistan. It is unfortunate that attacks like these, which claim innocent lives, vindicate his stance. The truth is no peace can be achieved in Kashmir, until and unless we have Pakistan on our side to defeat the vultures of violence. We have to engage the state of Pakistan, as is being done by PM Modi's government at different levels, so they turn the tide against these terrorists inside and out of their country. It would be an underestimation if we assumed that the Pakistani state controls them entirely. There will be elements inside Pakistan who would like to keep peace fragile in the region, but we must safeguard ties with the state, which can manage to choke the extremist organisations within and deter them from using their territory against another state. Imagine if this attack on EDI was carried out in a school in Pampore - we would have had to lose more lives than those claimed by the Beslan school siege. And people who carry out the attacks won't see the difference between a school and an institution of policing. It also reinforces our belief that the negative peace prevailing in the Valley can be disturbed by just two armed gunmen; although security forces in Kashmir have largely managed to contain the violence within and on the LoC, militants manage to sneak in. We have to make sure the counter infiltration grid on the LoC is further strengthened, especially in the Kupwara region. The voters of the US have to choose between Hillary's experience and Sanders' understanding, at least this is what the first sight depicts. "The sight of Israeli soldiers breaking the arms and legs of Arabs is reprehensible... What is happening in Israel is a tragedy and I don't have a magical solution to this problem", said Bernie Sanders in 1988. Time and again in the past few decades Bernie has laid more emphasis on the role of the US as the leader that can help bring Arab states and Israel on the same page. As one of the prominent presidential nominees, Bernie has garnered support from the likes of Noam Chomsky for his policies. As the Super Tuesday on the 1st of March is fast approaching, presidential battle in the United States is intensifying and could well decide the fortune of candidates in the next phase when 12 states go to polls. Donald Trump has already wrecked a crushing defeat on Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz by a considerable margin and seems poised to becoming the GOP candidate. On the other hand, it has been a neck and neck competition between Bernie Sanders and former secretary of state, Hillary Clinton. The run-up to final nomination of any candidate entails a number of factors including his/her past comments and stands on the issues of national and international significance. Bernie Sanders and Hillary Clinton, the Democratic presidential candidates have locked horns in debates on various platforms and on a series of issues from unemployment to poverty. However, it's always the foreign policy of any candidate that could make or break his prospects. As the world has witnessed, the arrival and barbarity of the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) reaching its pinnacle, the foreign policy of Hillary and Sanders has come under severe scrutiny. While Hillary does possess ample amount of experience as she held the position of secretary of state from 2009-2013, Bernie seems to be lagging behind with his limited expertise on the US foreign policy. A meticulous analysis of their stands from the war in Iraq to the Israeli bombing of Gaza in 2014 reveals their understanding of international affairs. Bernie opposed the Iraq war and gave an aggressive speech on the floor of the house in 2002, opposing the regime change and reflected upon the dire consequences that this world continues to endure post invasion. Hillary, on the other hand, supported the Iraq war wholeheartedly and bit the dust in the recent past by acknowledging that it was a mistake. The audience at one of the CNN debates seemed to be in consonance with Bernie's exhortations with regard to the US involvement in wars as he received a resounding applause while regarding the Iraq war as one of the biggest mistakes in the history of the US. Hillary Clinton has questioned Bernie's foreign policy credentials and his limited experience as she did back in the year 2008 in Obama's case as well, completely oblivious of Bernie's foretelling skills. The year 2011 projected an unprecedented landscape in the Middle-East as a number of dictatorships went for a toss. Muammar Gaddafi of Libya was one of the uprooted dictators to have been later assassinated in the broad day light. The US and a multi-state coalition intervened in Libya ostensibly to implement UN resolution 1973. As per the released emails, Hillary's aides urged her to claim credits for their triumph against Gaddafi. What ensued was chaos and turmoil exacerbating the situation as the political vacuum not only paved the way for extremists to take over but also resulted in two parallel governments functioning in Tripoli and Tobruk. This coupled with Benghazi bombings saw Hillary's Libya doctrine shattered into pieces. The UN brokered peace accord between the two governments also hangs by a thread and the civilians continue to suffer. Bernie Sanders, after witnessing the fiasco in Libya, severely admonished US of any military involvement on the ground in Syria in 2013. However, Hillary neither seemed in agreement with Obama's policy of only air strikes in Syria nor with Bernie's doctrine of war being the last recourse. "Before you go on a war you explore every other option that is available, that is going to be the basic tenet of my foreign policy", said Bernie in one of his recent interviews. Hillary Clinton, on a number of occasions, has sidelined any possibility of sending US troops on the ground in Syria or Iraq but has also refused to give any "blanket statement" thereby hinting toward a possible use of special forces if the need arises. Bernie Sanders acquiesces to the view of King Abdullah of Jordan that the ISIS cannot be defeated without involving the local states and their soldiers on the ground. In Bernie's view, the US should play a smart role and help this coalition fight against the ISIS without getting directly involved in the Syrian quagmire. The question that stares right in the face of US voters is whether or not they are ready to accept US playing a second fiddle rather than the leader that it has remained for the most part of post-1990s. Updated at 8:25 p.m. WOODBRIDGE On her first day on the job, police Officer Ashley Guindon responded to a call that could have become routine: a domestic disturbance in a well-kept suburban neighborhood. But one woman had already been slain inside the Northern Virginia home of a Pentagon worker, and Officer Guindon would be next. Army Sgt. Ronald Hamilton opened fire as she arrived at his door, killing her and wounding two other officers, police said Sunday. Prince William County Police Chief Stephan Hudson was stone-faced Sunday as he lauded Guindons bravery, intelligence and compassion. The chief offered no details about what might have provoked the gunman, who worked at the Pentagon and, according to neighbors, was about to be transferred to Italy. Hamilton, 32, and his wife Crystal, 29, had been arguing all day Saturday, but it escalated after she called 911, the chief said. Hamilton fatally shot his wife and then fired at the arriving officers, police said, killing Guindon and seriously wounding the others before emerging from his front door to surrender. Officers recovered a handgun and a rifle. The couples 11-year-old son was home at the time of the slayings and is being cared for by relatives, Hudson said. Guindon, 28, was pronounced dead at the hospital, where officers Jesse Hempen, 31, and David McKeown, 33, were being treated on Sunday. Police did not detail their injuries. Hudson said they face long recoveries. Commonwealths Attorney Paul Ebert said he likely would seek the death penalty against Hamilton, who was held without bond on charges including capital murder, first-degree murder and malicious wounding pending a Monday morning arraignment. Guindon, a former Marine Corps reservist with a masters degree in forensic science, had been sworn in on Friday, which the department marked with a celebratory tweet. We were struck by her passion to do this job, Hudson said. She couldnt get it out of her blood. She clearly had a passion to serve others in a way that went beyond herself. Guindons death was not the first tragedy to strike her family. Her father, David, killed himself the day after he returned home from Iraq, where he served with the New Hampshire Air National Guard. He came home and took his own life, Dorothy Guindon, Ashleys grandmother, told The Associated Press. He was buried with full military honors on Aug. 26, 2004. Ashley was his only child. She was born in Springfield, Massachusetts, and the family later moved to Merrimack, New Hampshire, her grandmother said. This is really a shock to us, Dorothy Guindon said. Ashley was such a nice person. Mark Doyle, the police chief in Merrimack, told The AP that his officers escorted Guindons mother and aunt to the airport to fly to Virginia. You wonder what she could have been able to accomplish, Doyle said. Well never know. Her line-of-duty death was the fourth in the 46-year history of the department, and only the second time a county officer was slain maliciously, county officials said. The county has 446,000 residents, and Woodbridge is one of many bedroom communities popular with federal workers, the military and others who commute to Washington, 30 miles to the north. This department is revered. Its respected, said Corey Stewart, the Republican chairman of the countys Board of Supervisors. She was an example of the kind of person that the department hires and the quality of the men and women who work for the department. Hamiltons neighbors, too, were struggling to comprehend how a man who had ingratiated himself to the close-knit community could be accused of such crimes. The neighborhood of $500,000 houses with manicured lawns and two-car garages is about a 5-minute drive from the county office building. Charnita Allen, who lives down the street, said Hamiltons son was close with her own 10-year-old son and frequently played at their house. Speaking in a soft voice in her driveway Sunday morning, she said Hamilton was a nice guy. Its going to be tough getting over this one, she said. LONDON - England - The actress Leslie Ash had a big smile on her face today after being awarded 5 million of taxpayers money from the NHS. NHS Gets Fat Lip The vain actress, Leslie Ash plans to get more plastic cosmetic surgery with the massive windfall. I feel that my lips arent big enough yet and plan to have a smile so wide that it will take up the whole width of my head. Five million pounds is more than enough to bring a wider botox smile to her already smiley face. The NHS handed over the money to the actress after she contracted MSSA (treatable with antibiotics) in a hospital when she was there receiving treatment for a broken rib after a wild sex session with her boyfriend. Lip Service The sum of five million pounds could be used to pay for more equipment or staff so that hospitals can combat MSSA and MRSA. Instead, the enormous amount of money has been awarded to Ms. Ash for an altogether costly coital injury that sure was one expensive f*ck! After hearing of the large payout there were massive queues building up of people waiting to be admitted as patients outside the NHS hospital where Leslie acquired her windfall prize. The actress plans to celebrate with her favourite fish supper tonight and you can guess what that is trout. It was observed by researchers that irrespective of food availability, people tend to eat the food their region is most known for. (Photo: Pixabay) Washington D.C.: Your proximity to a grocery store can actually change the way you eat, according to a recent study. Living close to a supermarket is something you may associate with an unhealthy lifestyle, but the research has turned this thinking on its head, finding those who live close to the store make healthier food choices. The foods on the first list are more exclusive in social media feeds of people living in northeastern food deserts, a term used by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to describe communities with limited access to grocery stores. The second list is more exclusive to non-food deserts. The Georgia Institute of Technology study identified the food choices and nutritional profiles of people living in both types of communities throughout America. It included three million geo-tagged posts on the social media platform where food is king: Instagram. The researchers found that food posted (and eaten) by people in food deserts is 5 to 17 percent higher in fat, cholesterol and sugars compared to those shared in non-food deserts areas. Munmun De Choudhury, who led the study, said that the USDA identifies food deserts based on the availability of fresh food. Instagram literally gave them a picture of what people are actually eating in these communities, allowing them to study them in a new way. "Fruits and vegetables are the biggest difference," De Choudhury said. "Forty-eight percent of posts from people in non-food deserts mention them. It's only 33 percent in food deserts." Another observation made by the researchers was, irrespective of food availability, people in the US tend to eat the food their region is most known for - steak and coffee in the west, smoked salmon and cheesecake in the east, and okra and biscuits in the south. The study has been presented at the ACM Conference on Computer-Supported Cooperative Work and Social Computing (CSCW). This is one of the first studies to document how common Internet site use is among people newly diagnosed with HIV. (Photo: Pixabay) Washington D.C.: More than 60 per cent of gay and bisexual men diagnosed with HIV reported meeting sexual partners online, according to a new study. Study authors at Brown University, The Miriam Hospital, and the Rhode Island Department of Health said companies that produce hookup websites and apps should partner with public health groups, to share public health messages about the risks of sexual encounters arranged online. For instance, sites and apps could provide affordable advertising access to help prevent infection in communities that are most impacted by HIV. In 2013, 74 Ocean State residents were newly diagnosed with HIV. Three in five were gay, bisexual, or other MSM, and of those 43 people, 22 told researchers they believe a man they met online gave them the virus, according to the study published online in the journal Public Health Reports. The research team interviewed 70 of the state's 74 newly diagnosed people for the study. Researcher Amy Nunn said that this is a statewide study that included nearly all individuals newly diagnosed with HIV across an entire state. This is one of the first studies to document how common Internet site use is among people newly diagnosed with HIV and highlights important opportunities to partner with hookup sites to advance public health. Five sites and apps, some of which are also used by women, were the most popular: Grindr, Manhunt, Scruff, Adam4Adam and Craigslist. Lead author Dr. Philip Chan said that the widely used sites are part of the lifestyle and culture among many gay and bisexual men and can lead to lasting relationships, not just health risks. The goal of the research, therefore, is not to stigmatize sex or men who use the sites, he and Nunn said, but to instead to inspire partnerships with companies to include more information that could slow the spread of HIV. Co-author Dr. Nicole Alexander-Scott said that a study like this is an urgent call to action for greater collaboration around education to address the health needs of men who have sex with men. The rate of new HIV diagnoses among men who have sex with men represents an unacceptable health disparity that absolutely must be addressed. The study is published in the journal Public Health Reports. In the studies parents reported experiencing lower authenticity, emotional well-being, relationship quality, and responsiveness to their children's needs when they suppressed negative emotions and amplified positive emotions. (Photo: Pixabay) Washington D.C.: It's always important to be a positive role model for your children and now, a new study has revealed the emotional cost for parents who put on a happy face. The University of Toronto research suggests that parents' attempts to suppress negative and amplify positive emotions during child care can detract from their well-being and high-quality parent-child bonds. In two studies, one experimental and the other a 10-day daily experience study, the scientists examined how parental negative emotion suppression and positive emotion amplification may shape parents' personal and relationship well-being. In the studies parents reported experiencing lower authenticity, emotional well-being, relationship quality, and responsiveness to their children's needs when they suppressed negative emotions and amplified positive emotions when providing care to their children. Lead author Bonnie Le said that by examining the regulation of positive and negative emotions in tandem, the results can shed light on the unique effects of using each strategy. In the first experiment with 162 parents that focused on recalling past care giving experiences before answering a series of questions, the researchers found various emotional costs for the parents. Co-author Dr. Emily Impett for the average parent the findings suggest when they attempt to hide their negative emotion expression and over-express their positive emotions with their children, it actually comes at a cost: doing so may lead parents to feel worse themselves. The authors acknowledge that while parents may experience costs from engaging in these emotion regulation strategies, it will be important to examine whether children may actually benefit from their parents efforts to hide potentially hurtful emotions and overexpress positive emotions. The study appears in Personality and Social Psychology Bulletin. Hyderabad: The Cyberabad police on Monday arrested a notorious criminal who was involved in 11 burglaries including one in Bhutan. The police recovered around 750 grams of gold from M. Sudhakar and also arrested his aide Azhar, who concealed the stolen material. Police said that M. Sudhakar, 24, the youngest of three brothers started his criminal activities in 2006 along with his younger brother M. Surender and served imprisonment. After Surender's death in an acccident in 2011, Sudhakar continued thefts and sold the stolen goods to his friend Azhar, for which the duo were arrested and sent to remand. After coming out on bail, the duo started thefts together. Sudhakar who went to Bhutan in 2015 burgled a house in the area he was staying and fled with eight tolas of gold. "Sudhakar is involved in 32 cases including three murders and a drugs case. Despite imprisonment on several occasions there is no change in his behaviour. So we are sending proposals to use the PD Act against him," said Balanagar in-charge DCP Srinivas Reddy. M Sudhakar, a native of Medchal village has completed Intermediate. On Monday during vehicle checking at Suchitra X roads police found gold jewellery in his pockets. Later, he confessed and revealed the role of his aide Azhar. The duo were arrested and around 750 grams of gold, a bike and two phones were seized from them. Chandigarh: Three truck drivers on Sunday denied having witnessed any incident of alleged molestation or rape of women during the pro-quota Jat agitation at Murthal in Sonipat district, Haryana police said. "Three truck drivers have denied that they had seen molestation or rape of women (at Murthal)," Haryana Police, DIG, Rajshree Singh said today. Truck drivers Sukhwinder, Abdul Wahid and Yadwinder have, however, said that their trucks were burnt by agitators. A team of three women police officers --DIG Rajshree Singh, DSPs Bharti Dabas and Surinder Kaur was formed by Haryana government "to gather information concerning the alleged incident of sexual assault on some women near Murthal on the intervening night of February 22 and 23." DIG said instructions have been issued that as and when any complainant comes forward an FIR must be registered. On Saturday, women police officers had visited the site at village Hassanpur near Murthal in Sonipat district on Delhi-Ambala National Highway to gather first hand information about the alleged incident. Meanwhile, Sonepat SP Abhishek Garg said three witnesses to the incident as reported by a section of media were also "verified at various levels" and they had said that no incident of sexual assault or rape took place at Murthal, over 50 km from Delhi. Haryana Chief Minister Manohar Lal Khattar had on Saturday asked people to share information, if they have any, with the state police regarding the alleged incident. London: Britain's popular Royal couple Prince William and Kate Middleton will embark on their maiden visit to India on April 10 that will also include a trip to the iconic Taj Mahal, as part of their efforts to build an "enduring relationship" with the country. The Duke and Duchess of Cambridge will land in Mumbai on April 10, then leave for Bhutanese capital Thimpu on April 14 before returning to India on April 16 to depart for the UK, a Kensington Palace spokesperson said. William, 33, the second in line to Britain's throne, and his 34-year-old wife will be leaving their children, Prince George and Princess Charlotte, behind in the UK during the six-day two-nation tour. "The Duke and Duchess are very much looking forward to their tours of India and Bhutan. Their visit to India will be an introduction to a country that they plan to build an enduring relationship with. "They will pay tribute to India's proud history, but also are keen to understand the hopes and aspirations of young Indian people and the major role they will play in shaping the 21st century," the spokesperson said. They will land in Mumbai and proceed to Delhi for two days on April 11, followed by Kaziranga National Park where they are scheduled to spend April 12 and 13. The Royal couple will visit the Taj Mahal in Agra on April 16, where 24-years-ago Prince William's mother Princess Diana had posed for one of her most iconic photos in 1992. Princess Diana, then 30-years-old, was scheduled to visit the world-famous monument of love with her husband Prince Charles, but finally made the trip alone. The couple announced their separation a few months later in December 1992. "In India, the Duke and Duchess will see a variety of aspects of contemporary Indian life, focusing on young people, sport, entrepreneurship, Indian efforts to relieve urban poverty, the creative arts, and rural life. "Their Royal Highnesses will begin their visit in the creative and business hub of Mumbai. They will then travel to the capital New Delhi, which is the seat of history and politics in the world's largest democracy," he said. The Royal couple's India visit had been announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to the UK last November, as being undertaken at the request of the UK government to promote India-UK ties. Scores of bovine lovers from across the country gathered at Ramlila Maidan on Sunday pledging their commitment to prevent stray cattle from falling into the traps of greedy illegal beef smugglers. Thirty-two year-old Amarpreet Singh had reached Delhi on Friday night from Punjab to attend the jan andolan on the weekend. A cow is a sacred animal that gives us milk from which many dairy products are made. Its the need of the hours to protect indigenous breeds of Indian cows as their milk is of a far supreme quality than the crossbreds, said Singh who calls himself a protector of the indigenous breeds of cows. Even the cows excrement has medicinal value. While its urine is one of the main ingredients in some of the Ayurvedic medicines which help cure fatal diseases, cow dung is used to make gobar gas (biogas) having the potential to replace motor vehicle fuel he added. Some activists pursuaded people to take up animal husbandary. Many foreign countries have been importing indigenous breeds of our cows because of the better quality of milk, and here in India we go after the crossbred cows, said Singh. Hundreds of livestock owners, animal husbandry practitioners and dairy operators from Rajasthan, Gujarat and Punjab, among other states were present at the rally. They marched to Jantar Mantar from Ramlila Maidan for seeking a Rashtriya Mata status for cows. Bollywood actress turned politician Hema Malini echoed similar concerns. We should come together and lend our support to make cows our Rashtriya Mata, she said. I am a trustee of a cowshed myself. We should take up the cause with full zeal, she added while sharing the dais with cattleshed owners. Even some students turned up to learn about domesticated animals. In cities we rarely get to see cowsheds in our neighbourhoods. So we have come here to learn how they are kept in a farm, said Ritu Sharma, who lives in Rohini. The Delhi Police have interrogated a photocopy shop owner from whose shop organisers of the controversial February 9 event in JNU got their posters printed, sources said on Sunday. Riyaz, who runs a photocopy shop in Ber Sarai colony close to the University campus, has confirmed that he made about 150-200 copies of a poster related to the February 9 event that had kicked up the sedition controversy. On the other hand, investigators are very close to concluding that Umar Khalid, one of the three accused arrested in the case, is lying that he did not know any University outsider who attended the event. We have reason to suspect that Umar sent messages to Kashmir-based students to attend the meeting, said a highly-placed official involved in transfer of the probe from South Delhi District police to anti-terror unit, Special Cell. Earlier, Ashutosh Kumar, one of the students named in the sedition case filed over the February 9 event, faced questions of investigators for the second day on Sunday about his role in organising the controversial event, said sources. Kumar was grilled for the second successive day for eight hours at the R K Puram police station and sent back to the campus. Ashutosh was called around noon and kept in the questioning room till 8 pm. Police are basically ascertaining the chain of events on February 9 day, and also his role in it, said Om, a member of All India Students Association (AISA), who spoke to Ashutosh after his questioning. According to sources, Ashutosh will again be called by the Special Cell of Delhi Police, which was formally handed over the probe from the south district police on Saturday. Police are also expected to call for questioning the other two JNU students Rama Naga and Anant Prakash Narayan who have been named in the sedition case. Ashutosh, Naga and Narayan had few days ago communicated to the police through a letter their intention to join the police investigation. The police are already interrogating JNU students' union president Kanhaiya Kumar as well as Anirban Bhattacharya and Khalid. While Kanhaiya is in judicial custody, Khalid and Bhattacharya are in police custody. The Art of Living foundations plan to release enzymes into 17 drains joining Yamuna for cleaning the river in March has generated much controversy. While the foundation claims that it is an effective plan, experts have questioned the credibility of the procedure saying that the plan has not got any approval or been tested by any competent authority. Art of Living is holding a three-day event from March 11-13 on the west bank of Yamuna floodplains to celebrate 35 years of the foundation. The President and the Prime Minister have given their consent to the part of inaugural ceremony. Founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar had earlier said lakhs of people are bringing enzymes which would be released in the filthy drains to cleanse the water. Smell reduced The foundation has already started putting the enzymes and claim that the smell has reduced since then. This is a tried and tested formula. It is not happening for the first time and we have experts with us who have approved it. We have started putting the enzymes into the river and the results can be seen already. The smell has reduced since we have taken this step, said an organiser of the event. However, when asked how the enzymes actually work in cleaning the river, he failed to explain the process. Environmentalist Anand Arya, who has moved the National Green tribunal (NGT) against the plan, said that putting anything into the river without an approval from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) is not allowed. They produced an expert from Haridwar in the NGT who has given an approval. The NGT has asked them to send it to AIIMS for testing but when will they send it that has not been decided yet, he said. He says that his objection is not against enzymes but the fact that something which is untested by the necessary authorities cannot go into the river. Many queries There are so many questions involving the plan like the stability of the product, the method of delivery, how long will these enzymes work and when will they become inert, Arya says. Another pertinent question raised by Arya is what happens to enzymes after they clear the pollutants. Suppose today pollutants become clear then enzymes can go into the river and if that water is used in irrigation, what happens to our agriculture. The good bacteria in the soil could get destroyed too. So there are so many questions which have to be answered, he said. While the next date of hearing on the matter is Tuesday, Delhi government seems to have given the plan a go ahead. It is just an experiment. We will see what will happen. If this is successful, we can also try this later, said Water Minister Kapil Mishra. Meanwhile, BJP East Delhi MP Mahesh Giri, who has been associated with the foundation since some time, said, The organisation is known for working for Yamuna. How can they do something which is hazardous for the river. Five nominations and 23 years later, Leonardo Di Caprio's cold streak at the Oscars finally came to an end as he won the best actor trophy for his role of a wounded fur trapper seeking revenge in "The Revenant". The actor's role in the Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu- directed 1823-set film was gritty and thrilling, a territory DiCaprio has not dabbled too much. The superstar, in his lengthy speech thanked his co-star Tom Hardy, director Inarritu for his cinematic vision and all the filmmakers, including his frequent collaborator Martin Scorsese, who helped him navigate through his career. DiCaprio, a keen environmentalist, also took the opportunity to discuss climate change and its impact on planet. "Last I want to say this, making 'The Revenant' was about man's relationship in the natural world... Climate change is real. It is happening right now. It is the most urgent threat facing our entire species and we need to work together and stop procrastinating," he said. A self-declared vegetarian, DiCaprio, for his role of 19th-century American frontiersman Hugh Glass, a rugged mountain man fighting for survival, had to guzzle a live fish, and tuck into a bison liver. The actor shot for six months in the inhospitable Canadian wilderness. Whether it was going in and out of frozen rivers, or sleeping in a horse carcass, DiCaprio's real-life ordeals were no less challenging than the character he played on screen. DiCaprio complimented Emmanuel Lubezki's breathtaking cinematography. The actor might have had Tom Hardy as a co-star, but nothing could steal the spotlight from the 41-year-old star. The odds were in favour of DiCaprio right from the begining of the awards season as the actor was the toast of the Golden Globes and SAG Awards. At the Oscars, he was nominated for best actor along with Bryan Cranston ('Trumbo'), Michael Fassbender ('Steve Jobs'), Eddie Redmayne ('The Danish Girl') and Matt Damon ('The Martian'). Although the race was tough, DiCaprio's physically gruelling performance, star power, and the growing narrative that he is long overdue for an Oscar win, propelled his win at the 88th Academy Awards. This was the sixth Academy Award nomination for the actor, who earned his first nomination in 1994 for his breakthrough role in "What's Eating Gilbert Grape" at the age of 22. As Johnny Depp's developmentally disabled younger brother, he received a nod for best supporting actor. Tommy Lee Jones took home the award that night for "The Fugitive." In 2005, Leo was nominated for an Oscar for best actor for his part in "The Aviator" and even developed obsessive- compulsive disorder while preparing for his role of billionaire recluse Howard Hughes. But he was trumped by Jamie Foxx, who took home the statue for his portrayal of Ray Charles in "Ray". DiCaprio was once again in the running to take home an Oscar for his role in "Blood Diamond" but returned empty-handed. The actor doubled his chances for Academy Award victory in 2014, receiving two nominations for "The Wolf of Wall Street" one for best actor and another for best picture (as a producer) but luck still did not favour him. In his 37-year career, DiCaprio has filmed with the very biggest directors including Scorsese, Christopher Nolan, Sam Mendes, Danny Boyle and Quentin Tarantino. Haryana Police today filed its status report on the alleged rapes at Murthal in Sonipat district during the Jat agitation, saying no such incident took place. The status report was filed before a division bench of justices S K Mittal and H S Sidhu. The status report filed by police "denied the charges of molestation and gangrape during the intervening night of February 22/23 at Murthal in Sonipat district." The division bench adjourned the case to March 14. The High Court had taken suo motu note of the matter after a report in a local daily on the alleged rapes. The bench had appointed senior advocate Anupam Gupta as amicus curiae to assist the court in this matter. During the course of the hearing, ADGP Law and Order Mohd Akil and Head of the three-member women police officers probing the allegations DIG Rajshree Singh were also present. Days after allegations of rape and molestation by Jat quota agitators near Haryana's Murthal, a woman yesterday came forward and registered a case of gangrape against seven persons, including her brother-in-law, in connection with the incident. "An FIR has been lodged against seven persons in connection with a gangrape on the basis of a complaint filed by a Narela-based woman," Haryana Police, DIG, Rajshree Singh had said. She said the victim had alleged she was raped on the intervening night of February 22-23 and the perpetrators included her brother-in-law. The officer, who heads a three-member team of women police officers constituted by the Haryana government to go into alleged incidents of rape and molestation of several women by Jat protesters, however, said a "family dispute" could be the reason behind the woman filing the complaint. The officer said the victim was not sure about the exact scene of the crime but claimed she was raped in a building near Murthal when she was on way to Narela in Delhi from Haridwar in a van. The 88th Academy Award winners including Leonardo DiCaprio, Alejandro Inarritu and Sam Smith, as well as host Chris Rock used the Oscar stage to address issues like racial diversity, climate change and LGBT rights. Rock nailed the opening monologue with a skillful mix of social commentary and humour about racism in Hollywood, an issue that has dominated debates this awards season. "Well, I am here at the Academy Awards, otherwise known as the White People Choice Awards. If they nominated hosts, I wouldn't even get this job," Rock quipped. He also suggested that what was needed at this point is for the Academy to have black categories. "Is Hollywood racist? You know, you have to go at that the right way. It is a different type of racist. You are damn right Hollywood's racist. Hollywood is sorority racist. But things are changing." Rock addressed police violence against black community, saying "This year at the Oscars, things are gonna be a real different. In this year, in the In Memoriam package, it's just gonnna be black people who were shot by cops on the way to the movies." Celebrities utilised the Oscar stage to voice their opinions on issues that are close to their hearts. Breaking his Oscar jinx, when DiCaprio took to stage to accept his best actor trophy, the world expected him to look back at his cinematic journey but the 41-year-old star focused on climate change. "Making 'The Revenant' was about man's relationship in the natural world... Climate change is real. It is happening right now. It is the most urgent threat facing our entire species and we need to work together and stop procrastinating. Do not take the planet for granted," he told the celebrity crowd. Smith won the best original song Oscar for "Writing's on the Wall" from the James Bond movie "Spectre" and he dedicated his first Academy Award to the LGBT community. "I want to dedicate this to the LGBT community all around the world. I stand here tonight as a proud gay man. I hope we can stand all together as equals one day," he said. Mexican helmer Inarritu, who won his second consecutive directing Oscar for "The Revenant", after last year's win for "Birdman", addressed the diversity issue by invoking a dialogue from his movie. "I am very lucky to be here tonight but unfortunately, many others haven't had the same luck... "So what a great opportunity to our generation to really liberate ourselves from all prejudice and this tribal thinking, and make sure for once and forever that the colour of the skin become as irrelevant as the length of our hair." Pakistani journalist-filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy won best documentary short for "A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness", which is about a survivor of an attempted honour killing in her country. Sharmeen lauded the "brave men" and others who encourage women to study and progress in life. This is the second win for Sharmeen, who previously bagged the Oscar in the same category in 2011 for "S aving Face", a documentary about an acid attack victim. "Thank God I have two of them now. This is what happens when determined women get together from Saba, the woman in my film, who remarkably survives an honour killing and shared her story," Sharmeen said. Tom McCarthy's real life-inspired drama "Spotlight", based on a group of reporters, who exposed the child sex abuse cases in Catholic church, won the best picture honour and the film's team took the opportunity to talk about the importance of investigative journalism. "This film gave a voice to the survivors and the Oscar amplifies that voice which we hope will resonate all the way to the Vatican..," producer Michael Sugar said in his acceptance speech. "We would not be here today without the heroic efforts of our reporters. Not only do they effect global change, but they absolutely show us the necessity for investigative journalism," co-producer Blye Pagon Faust said. Best supporting actor winner Mark Rylance also spoke about the diversity issue that has marred the Academy since nominations last month. On a hopeful note, Rylance said, "I think African-American actors are in a stronger position now thanks a lot to what Chris Rock has done tonight and what the activists who have been raising the issue around this awards ceremony have said," the British star said, adding that it is an issue for him that filmmaking is largely dominated by men. The Pakistani team investigating the Pathankot terror attack will complete its probe this week, a top official said today, days after three suspects in the high-profile case were remanded to police custody. "The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) will complete probe into Pathankot incident this week," Prime Minister's Special Assistant on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi was quoted as saying by Radio Pakistan. Pakistan last week set up a five-member JIT to probe the terror attack on the Pathankot airbase, a week after it lodged an FIR over the assault without naming Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar who India has accused of having masterminded the strike. Earlier, a six-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) was set up by the federal government for the initial probe into the January 2 attack based on the leads given by India. Three men arrested for their alleged role in the attack were sent to a six-day police remand by an anti-terrorism court in Gujranwala city of Punjab on Saturday. The FIR by the Counter-Terrorism Department of Punjab police has been lodged on the basis of information provided by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval that four attackers crossed from Pakistan into India and attacked the airbase. The attack led to the postponement of a scheduled meeting between Foreign Secretaries of Pakistan and India in January in Islamabad. Since then, no date has been fixed for the talks. Meanwhile, Fatemi also said the dates for the upcoming SAARC Summit in Islamabad are being worked out in consultation with member states. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to attend the summit. Lack of clarity on the central allocation and revised sharing pattern in centrally sponsored programmes has affected implementation of developmental schemes, Karnataka Governor Vajubhai Vala said today. "Karnataka is known to be one of the most fiscally prudent states. The devolution pool to the state has increased under the 14th finance commission from 32 per cent to 42 per cent and there has been an increase in Karnataka's share within it," Vala said in his address to the joint session of the state legislature. The Governor, however, said there has been a cut in the central support to state plan and other central grants. "This has led to a net reduction in actual transfer of resources to the state. Further, lack of clarity on the central allocation and the revised sharing pattern in many centrally sponsored schemes has affected the implementation of developmental schemes," Vala said. In spite of this, the government has protected the most essential schemes by using state funds, he said, as he outlined the policies and programmes of the Congress government led by Siddaramaiah. The legislature session that began today with the Governor's address will last till March 5, with Opposition BJP and JDS all set to haul the government over the coals over an array of issues, including spike in farmers suicides. Emphasising on his government's commitment to maintain law and order and to ensure communal harmony, Vala listed out the steps taken in this regard that include strengthening the police force and improve policing. "Over 9000 police personnel and other staff have been recruited. Fifteen new police stations, ten women police stations and two police sub-divisions have been sanctioned," he said. The Governor also said that the government's priority is to improve the quality of service delivery and governance. Speaking on the agrarian sector, he said despite adverse weather conditions this year and the effect of drought in 136 taluks during kharif and 62 taluks during rabi, the state is likely to achieve a food grain production of 110 lakh tones. Listing out various programmes and schemes by the government to support farmers and agriculture, he said "My government is committed to provide adequate credit support to farmers." Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif received money from al-Qaeda chief Osama Bin Laden to contest elections against Benazir Bhutto-led Pakistan People's Party in 1990, a new book has claimed. The book titled 'Khalid Khawaja: Shaheed-i-Aman' by Shamama Khalid, the wife of former ISI operative Khalid Khawaja, claims that Sharif's pledge of introducing an Islamic system attracted Khawaja as well as Osama. "Chief of PML-N Mian Mohammad Nawaz Sharif received funding from Osama Bin Laden, founder of Al-Qaeda, to contest elections against Benazir Bhutto-led Pakistan People's Party (PPP) after the end of Zia regime," the book states. But even though Osama funded Sharif heavily, the latter backtracked from all his promises after coming into power, the Dawn reported today. The book also carries a note from former Inter-Services Intelligence director general, retired Lt-Gen Hamid Gul, which claims that Khawaja was very close to Sharif for some time. According to the book, Palestinian Sunni Abdullah Azzam, who is also known as the 'father of global jihad' and Osama's mentor, introduced Khawaja to the Al Qaeda head honcho. The book claims that Khawaja was killed by a splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban while he was on a peace mission in the restive tribal areas. Osama was killed in a midnight raid by the US Navy SEALs in Pakistan's garrison town of Abbottabad in 2011. The Supreme Court, hearing a bail plea of jailed Delhi University professor G N Saibaba who is facing trial for his alleged Maoist links, today asked a Maharashtra trial court to conduct day-to-day trial in the case and examine eight key prosecution witnesses in a month. The bench comprising justices J S Khehar and C Nagappan also said it may consider granting bail after the trial court examines key witnesses. Meanwhile, it asked all the accused including Saibaba to cooperate with the prosecution during the trial. It also asked the counsel for the state government to point out the factual position of the trial on April 4, the next date of hearing. "We have perused the counter affidavit and additional affidavit filed by the state of Maharashtra. We have also heard the counsel for the petitioner. It emerges out that out of total 34 witnesses, cited by the prosecution, some of the material witnesses have been examined and eight material witnesses are yet to be examined," the bench said. Hinting that it may consider granting bail at a later stage, the court asked the trial court at Gadchiroli in Maharashtra to conduct day-to-day trial from March 4 and conclude recording of statements of eight key witnesses by April 4. Earlier, the court had asked the Maharashtra government to look for an alternative arrangement to house the jailed professor. We want the state to make him comfortable, the bench had said, while also directing the state to provide sufficient medical facilities to him. Wheel chair-bound Saibaba is lodged in the Nagpur jail. Prior to this, the apex court, on another plea of author Arundhati Roy, had refused to stay a criminal contempt notice issued by the Bombay High Court against her for an article in a weekly magazine questioning the continued incarceration of Saibaba. The Bombay High Court had on December 23, 2015 issued the contempt notice against the author, for her views on Saibaba's arrest and rejection of his bail plea early last year. Gadchiroli Police had arrested Saibaba in 2014 for his alleged links with Maoists. He has been on bail since June last year. Roy had expressed her views on the arrest in an article published in a weekly magazine last year. Opposition today dubbed as "mere rhetoric" projection of the budget as pro-poor and said government will not be able to "fool" farmers with "hollow promises". Predictably, BJP hailed the budget calling its measures for rural India "historic". In a sharp attack on the government, Congress said it has "failed to create an immediate stimulus" to address economic challenges including employment generation with former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh holding that it lacked any "big idea". Asserting that the budget was short of both "vision and conviction", party Vice President Rahul Gandhi said a list of new promises have been made without any account of the "failure of tall promises made in last two budgets". "Modiji spent the first two years mocking the Congress Party's focus on farmers, MNREGA, Rural dev & social spending. Now mere rhetoric, without vision or action, will fool neither farmers nor the poor of this country," Gandhi tweeted. He, however, thanked Finance Minister Arun Jaitley for accepting his recommendation on removing import duty on Braille paper which will help the visually impaired. Criticising the budget, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said it was full of "hollow promises" and will burden commoners who will feel the pinch of hike in indirect tax."As with the previous two budgets, this budget of the Modi govt is again full of hollow promises and slogans. The numbers just don't add up. "FM says budget is about fulfilling 'desires & dreams' but it has no vision. The dead certainty from it is of a shrinking economy," Yechury said in a series of tweets. On his part, BJP chief Amit Shah praised the budget saying its focus on rural India and farmers besides other measures were "historic". Shah asserted that this is the first budget since Independence that has focused so much on "villages, farmers and poor". "The thrust of the budget is towards strengthening rural and agriculture sectors and boosting employment-generation.... There is a lot of focus on agriculture. There is a proposal to double farmers' income by 2022," Shah told reporters. He cited the allocation of Rs 2.70 lakh crore to local bodies, decision to electrify all villages by May 01, 2018 and allocation of over Rs 19,000 crore for Pradham Mantri Gram Sadak Yojna to emphasise the focus on rural India. National Conference leader and former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir Omar Abdullah tweeted "By not focusing the benefits of #UnionBudget2016 on the #suitboot people @arunjaitley has cleverly made the opposition's job a bit tougher." It was not only a passion but also a way to give something back to the society. It was this idea that gave birth to the moto-biking club Highwaymen. Started with merely five riders about three years back, this group today has more than 100 members including 50 active members. Kaushik Vastare, the coordinator and co-founder of the club says, It all started when the three of us (Shashak, Raghav and I) went to Kolli Hills. After the visit, we posted pictures and there were queries about the place. Thats when we thought why not start a group where we can make trips with a bigger group? We would meet up once in two months and go on long rides. Since most of the members in the group are techies, the group rides once in 45 days. Shashank Sreekanta, says, Our riding season starts in June and ends in March. The months of March, April and May are lean periods for us. During this time, we go for breakfast or one-day rides as the weather is not conducive for long rides. Though the group doesnt have any specific criteria, they encourage riders with 150cc bikes to ride with them. However, what they are particular about are the riding gears, safety measures and punctuality. Praveen Venkatappa says, Safety has been our priority. We do not allow anyone to ride without the required gear. We are particular about three things riding gear, safety measures and punctuality. We have a lead and a swipe for the group, so no one is allowed to cross the lead or fall behind the swipe. There is no overtaking and one must maintain a specific speed. The reason why we ride in groups is because we dont want to block the traffic. The group makes sure that they dont burden the riders with backpacks, saddle bags, etc, rather, have a back-up vehicle. Madhu TC, says, Our motive is to make the rider free, he should not be fiddling around with his bag or any extra things while riding, that is the reason why we have a luggage carrier behind us. For breakfast and one-day rides, we have an SUV that comes along with us. However, for multi-day rides, we have a back-up vehicle that accommodates first-aid and puncture kits, luggage, snacks and even ones bike. There are times when bikes break down, and if it is one of those times when a bike cannot be put together, we shift the bike to the vehicle. They have been to places like Wayanad, Chikkamagaluru, Goa, Sakleshpur and Lepakshi. Though till now their rides are confined mostly to the South, riding up North is there in their bucket list. Leh, Bhutan, and other countries are places we are looking forward to in the upcoming rides. Since most of our riders are working in the corporate field, it is easier for them to do weekend rides and go to places which are nearby, says Vijay Kumar TT. They are always looking forward to encourage group rides and setting an example. There have been times when we have spoken to people who drive or ride with high beams. We had riders who rode with us and have come back to us and said that they have become more responsible riders, says Vinod Thomas. They also have a Facebook page through which people can approach them. And once they become a part of the group, they are welcomed in the WhatsApp group, through which every rider is kept updated about the various plans and rides. The most interesting part about the group is that before they go on a multi-day ride, they have something called a pre-riding plus breakfast meet, which is a way to know the new riders. Encouraging women riders to ride, Kaushik says, We have two women riders with us. One of them is a lawyer who joins us mostly for breakfast or one-day rides, and the other lady joins us for multi-day rides also. We also encourage families to join us just to understand as to how we function. Their future events includes, their desire to do something for the society, so the events related to social awareness tops their to-do list. Till now we were just participants in various riding events but in the future, we want to organise events by getting in touch with the traffic police and educating riders. A ride to Kakkabe near Coorg is one of our upcoming rides, he adds. Recalling one of the most memorable ride, Shashank points out. The most memorable rides was the one to the Kolli hills, it was a round trip of about 700 km. We experienced everything that day. We had rain, horrible heat and close to three bikes in the luggage carrier. This was a ride that taught us so much. (For details, contact Kaushik on 9900171403) For all its peculiar horror, cancer comes with a saving grace. If nothing else can stop a tumours mad evolution, the cancer ultimately dies with its host. Everything the malignant cells have learned about outwitting the patients defenses and those of the oncologists is erased. The next case of cancer, in another victim, must start anew. Imagine if instead, cancer cells had the ability to press on to another body. A cancer like that would have the power to metastasise not just from organ to organ, but from person to person, evolving deadly new skills along the way. While there is no sign of an imminent threat, several recent papers suggest that the eventual emergence of a contagious human cancer is in the realm of medical possibility. This would not be a disease, like cervical cancer, that is set off by the spread of viruses, but rather one in which cancer cells actually travel from one person to another and thrive in their new location. So far this is known to have happened only under the most unusual circumstances. A 19-year-old laboratory worker who pricked herself with a syringe of colon cancer cells developed a tumour in her hand. A surgeon acquired a cancer from his patient after accidentally cutting himself during an operation. There are also cases of malignant cells being transferred from one person to another through an organ transplant or from a woman to her fetus. On each of these occasions, the malignancy went no further. The only known cancers that continue to move from body to body, evading the immune system, have been found in other animals. In laboratory experiments, for instance, cancer cells have been transferred by mosquitoes from one hamster to another. And so far, three kinds of contagious cancers have been discovered in the wild in dogs, Tasmanian devils and, most recently, in soft shell clams. The oldest known example is a cancer that spreads between dogs during sexual intercourse not as a side effect of a viral or bacterial infection, but rather through direct conveyance of cancer cells. The state of the research is described in a review, The Cancer Which Survived, published last year by Andrea Strakova and Elizabeth P Murchison of the University of Cambridge. The condition, canine transmissible venereal tumour disease, is believed to have sprung into existence 11,000 years ago as a single cell in a single dog and has been circulating ever since. Over time Normally a cancer evolves in a single body over the course of years or decades, accumulating the mutations that drive it to power. But to have survived for millenniums, researchers have proposed, canine cancer cells may have developed mechanisms like those in healthy cells to repair and stabilise their own malignant genomes. Early on, cancer cells typically flourish by disabling DNA repair and ramping up the mutational frenzy. Somewhere along the way, the age-old canine cells may have reinvented the device to extend their own longevity. There is also speculation that this cancer may have learned to somehow modify canine sexual behaviour in ways that promote the diseases spread and survival. The second kind of contagious cancer was discovered in the mid-1990s in Tasmanian devils, which spread malignant cells as they try to tear off one anothers faces. Though it may be hard to sympathise, devil facial tumour disease threatens the creatures with extinction. With so few examples, transmissible cancer has been easy to dismiss as an aberration. But in December, scientists at the Universities of Tasmania and Cambridge reported in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences that Tasmanian devils are passing around another kind of cancer genetically distinct from the first. Its weird enough that one such cancer would arise in the species. What are the chances that there would be two? One theory is that the animals are unusually vulnerable. Driven so close to extinction by climate change, perhaps, or human predators the species is lacking in genetic diversity. The cells of another devil injected through a vicious wound may seem so familiar that they are ignored by the recipients immune system. If some of the cells carry the mutations for the facial cancer, they might be free to flourish and develop into a new tumour. But the scientists also proposed a more disturbing explanation: that the emergence of contagious cancer may not be so rare after all. The possibility, they wrote, warrants further investigation of the risk that such diseases could arise in humans. Cancer has probably existed ever since our first multicellular ancestors appeared on Earth hundreds of millions of years ago. The life spans of even the longest-lived animals may be just too brief for cancers to easily evolve the ability to leap to another body. Otherwise, contagious cancer would be everywhere. Not imminent For now, at least, it remains a curiosity. Consider the case of a 41-year-old man in Medellin, Colombia, who was examined by doctors in 2013 because of fatigue, fever and weight loss. His lymph nodes were clogged with cancer cells that had also spread to his lungs and liver. Yet the cells looked far too small and simple to be human. This case posed a diagnostic conundrum, the doctors wrote in November in The New England Journal of Medicine. The solution to the puzzle came when the man was also found to be harbouring a tapeworm called Hymenolepis nana. Further analysis concluded that the cancer cells had originated in the parasite and then metastasised through the mans body. There is no reason to think that tapeworm cancer is about to become a threat to public health. The patients immune system had been compromised by HIV, and he died several months later. But nature is infinite in its surprises. Dr S Sudhakar Shetty, whose premium wrist watches were stolen from his home last year, met Bengaluru Police Commissioner N S Megharikh on Monday and gave the statement that he never owned a Hublot watch similar to the one worn by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah. The doctor met Megharikh days after former chief minister H D Kumaraswamy suggested that the Hublot watch worn by Siddaramaiah might be Shettys. Shetty clarified that he was in no way connected to the Hublot watch and the controversy involving Siddaramaiah and Kumaraswamy. He told reporters after the meeting, Three watches were stolen from my home in April 2015. I had lodged a complaint with the police in May 2015. I had Rolex and Shepherds watches but never owned a Hublot. I dont know why Kumaraswamy dragged me into the controversy. His allegations are totally false and I clarified this before the police commissioner. He also denied having ever spoken to Kumaraswamy about the watch controversy. Why should I speak to him about a watch that was stolen and a complaint that was lodged last year, he asked. Megharikh confirmed that Shetty recorded a statement on never owning a Hublot watch. He said the hunt for those who stole the watches was going on. Food grain production in the State is likely to decline to 110 lakh tonnes in the current financial year from the last years 114 lakh tonnes, owing to widespread drought. In his address to the members of the State legislature on Monday, Governor Vajubhai Vala said Karnataka was likely to achieve food grain production of 110 lakh tonnes despite adverse weather conditions and drought in 136 taluks during the kharif season and in 62 taluks during the rabi season. He, however, did not present the comparative figures of the last year. The governors speech to the members of both the Houses is a customary address to mark the commencement of the legislature session for the year. The governor, in his 31-page speech, dwelt mainly upon the governments achievements in the current year. He also mentioned the steps taken to bail out farmers who were in distress and provide better infrastructure in Bengaluru. Vala said steps were being taken to provide Information and Communications Technology (ICT) infrastructure such as online admission system, digital library, smart classrooms, tele-education, campus WiFi and online attendance management in higher educational institutions in a phased manner under the Jnana Sangama scheme. The government has sanctioned nine incubation centres to be set up at engineering colleges in order to encourage entrepreneurship. Besides, the ICT Skills Development Society has been providing training to unemployed youth in basic ICT skills. A startup warehouse has been set up in association with the National Association of Software and Services Companies, he added. The governor has described the recently held Invest Karnataka 2016 as a grand success and said the government had attracted over Rs 3 lakh crore of investment. Approval has been already given to 1,080 projects worth a total Rs 1.77 lakh crore. These projects have the potential to create 4.82 lakh employment opportunities. About 122 memorandums of understanding and expressions of interest were signed across the various sectors, he said. Bengaluru development The government has taken up road development works worth Rs 1,800 crore in Bengaluru, Governor Vajubhai Vala has said. Construction of flyovers, grade separators and signal-free corridors have been planned in select places to decongest traffic. About 60 bus shelters will be constructed on Build Operate and Transfer (BOT) basis in the City. The Bangalore Development Authority has taken up rejuvenation of 117 lakes and six solid waste processing, treatment and disposal facilities have been commissioned, he said. The governor also said that the first phase of Namma Metro covering 42.3 km would be completed soon and the second phase covering 72 km was under implementation. Highlights To soon commission the 800MW Yeramarus thermal power plant and 700 MW of Ballari thermal power plant (3rd unit). SPV set up to implement piped natural gas project in Bengaluru. Statewide Geographical Information System is being set up at a cost of Rs 150 crore. Assessment of flagship schemes of Anna Bhagya, Ksheera Bhagya and Krishi Bhagya conducted. Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Monday termed the Union budget proposals for 2016-17 very average and disappointing, especially for the farming community. Addressing a press conference in Bengaluru, Siddaramaiah said Prime Minister Narendra Modi had recently spoken about doubling the income of farmers by 2022, but no measure to make it a reality was reflected in the budget. The allocation for rural development, agriculture and irrigation, which could have provided thrust to the farm sector, is average. The concern and interest shown by Modi to farmers is not reflected in the budget, the chief minister said. Siddaramaiah pointed out that the Centre had saved Rs 1.5 lakh crore this fiscal as the prices of crude oil had come down and the same could have been channelised to the agriculture sector. Centres share cutHe said the State would continue to utilise its own resources to maintain Centrally- sponsored schemes as the Centres shares for these programmes continue to be cut. Siddaramaiah said he had written to the Centre to allocate at least Rs 20,000 crore for accelerated irrigation programmes but only Rs 1,375 crore had been allocated in the budget. He said the Centre had levied the Krishi Kalyan cess at 0.5 per cent on all taxable services. However, the state governments will not get a share of this cess as it did not come under the divisible polls of taxes. The proceeds of the cess will be exclusively used for financing initiatives for improvement in agriculture and uplift of farmers. Congress State president G Parameshwara said the distressed farming community had again met with disappointment. Farmers suffering due to severe drought were hoping that the government would announce a loan waiver in the budget. The previous UPA government had waived farm loans to the tune of Rs 72,000 crore. Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Assembly, Jagadish Shettar, on Monday said Governor Vajubhai Valas address to the joint session of the Legislature lacked direction and proved that the government did not have a vision for development of the State. Shettar said neither an action plan for the progress of the State nor priorities of the government had been spelt out in the address read out by the governor. The State is facing drought, but the government has made no announcements to mitigate the crisis. Power disruption and drinking water scarcity is looming large , but the government seems to be unconcerned, Shettar said. He said the governments penchant for getting into a confrontation with the Centre was a dangerous trend. The governor had been made to read some uncharitable remarks against the Centre in the address, he pointed out. Leader of the Opposition in the Legislative Council, K S Eshwarappa, said the government had failed to utilise Rs 1,500 crore grants released by the Centre. JD(S) leader Y S V Datta said it was clear that the government had lost interest in taking up developmental works and only wanted to complete its remaining two years in office. Saudi Arabia has been hosting unprecedented military exercises on its Northeastern frontier with the objective of projecting a united Sunni front against Shia Iran at a time Saudi and allied forces are stalemated in their 11 month air and ground campaign against Shia Houthi tribesmen in Yemen. Dubbed Northern Thunder, the manoeuvres have involved 1,50,000 troops from 20 countries including Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states, Pakistan, Jordan, Morocco, Egypt and, even, the Maldives. The exercises are intended to highlight the role of Saudi Defence Minister and Deputy Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman, 30, as the man in cha-rge of the defence of the kingdom and the worldwide Muslim community although there are said to be serious doubts about his judgment and competence among princes sidelined by his father King Salman who ascended to the throne a year ago. Prince Muhammad's first policy decision was to go to war in Yemen where the Houthis had seized control of the north, the capital Sanaa, a broad band of territory to the south, and the port city of Aden. Saudi-backed President Abu Rabbo Mansour Hadi and his cabinet were forced to flee to Riyadh. The Saudi coalition includes 10 countries, several of which have large military machines but Riyadh has made little headway against Houthi irregulars who have armed themselves from the country's arsenals and enjoy the backing of units of the regular army loyal to deposed President Ali Abdullah Saleh. In spite of the Saudi air and naval campaign, the use of heavy weapons and banned cluster munitions, the Houthis still hold the north and Sanaa and continue to attack pro-Hadi forces in Aden and elsewhere. While the Saudis and their allies have focused on the Houthis, al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula and Islamic State have conquered fresh territory. But this does not seem to disturb the Saudis, perhaps, because they are Sunni movements. Although the Saudis have received logistical and targeting support from the US and Britain, airstrikes have largely been on civilian targets, wreaking death and destruction. The Saudi air war and invasion has displaced 2.3 million Yemenis and killed 5,700 and among them 2,500 were civilians. Two-thirds of civilian fatalities have been from air strikes. While the world has focused on civilians starving due to government sieges of insurgent-held areas in Syria, the Saudis have blockaded and bombed Yemen's ports provisioning the populace and blasted convoys carrying food and medical supplies to Houthi-held areas. The Saudis have also flattened hospitals and schools, targets protected by the Geneva convention. The US and Britain, which not only back the war effort but also continue to sell arms to the Saudis, are co-culprits in this conflict, a war of choice rather than self-defence or necessity. Hadis regime had ample time to reach a deal with the Houthis who had demanded an end to corruption and reversal of federal redistricting (gerrymandering) which had deprived them of fair representation in Parliament. The Shia Houthis rightly argued they suffered discrimination because Riyadh had, over the years, converted many Sunni Yemenis to the Saudi puritan ideology which considers Shias to be heretics. Iranian proxies Riyadh claims falsely the Houthis are Iranian proxies seeking, ultimately, to attack Saudi Arabia. This is an absurdity as the Saudi armed forces consist of 2,35,000 troops armed with the latest Western weaponry while the Houthis field a rag-tag militia bearing light weaponry. Since the US has long been committed to the defence of Saudi Arabia, the kingdom should have no fear of being overwhelmed by the Houthis. Riyadh launched its air war on Yemen last March in the expectation that the Houthis would be defeated in short order. Prince Muhammad, who may not have read regional history, clearly did not know that wars fought in Yemen are never or almost never won by external attackers. The Saudis are absolutely paranoid about Iran, with which the US, their powerful ally, signed a deal last year to dismantle Tehrans nuclear programme and lift punitive sanctions which have crippled Irans economy and, allegedly, contained drive for regional hegemony. Saudi paranoia was born in the aftermath of the 1979 Iranian Islamic Revolution when Tehran tried and failed to export its Shia ideology to a region where 85% of Muslims are Sunnis. Saudi fears were stoked by the US installation of a pro-Iranian Shia fundamentalist regime in Iraq following the 2003 US occupation. Governed for decades by secular Baathists, Iraq had been until then a bastion against Iranian penetration of the Arab world despite Iraq's Shia majority. Indeed, Iraqs army, with a majority of Shia soldiers, fought Iran to a standstill during the two countries' 1980-88 war. Arab blood ties meant more to Arab Shias than religious connections to Shia Iran. If Riyadh had remembered this, Yemen, the poorest West Asian country, might have been spared a war by the wealthiest. The students of Sahyadri College of Engineering and Management have designed a SAE Aero Design plane. It was unveiled by MP Nalin Kumar Kateel recently. The Team Hawk is a part of robotic club of the college. The team, which has taken part in various national-level competitions in the fields of electronics and mechanical engineering, is all set to take up an international challenge by taking part in the SAE International Aero Design event which will be held at Fort Worth, Texas from March 11 to 13. A press release said the members of the team are undergraduate students from various disciplines of engineering, passionate towards aerospace engineering and aeronautics who endeavor to chase new dimensions of engineering and kinetics of aeronautics. Around 75 teams from around the world will be participating in the SAE International Aero Design. Team Hawk is one among the two teams from Karnataka.The team members --- Mohammad Anwar, Tharanath, Gouse khan M S, Midhun Jyothis, Gerald K Antony, Rajgokul Ganiga P S, Nitin S Prakash, Probid J and Amrutha Khandare --- have been selected to participate in this years SAE Aero Design. The team has successfully registered and received confirmation of their participation. Dr Rathishchandra Gatti, Professor of Sahyadri College of Engineering and Management is the team adviser. SAE International, initially established as the Society of Automotive Engineers, is a US-based globally active professional association and standards organisation for engineering professionals in various industries. The SAE Aero Design contest is intended to provide a real-life engineering challenge to undergraduate and graduate engineering students. The competition has been designed to provide exposure to the kinds of situation that engineers face in their real-life work environment. In the first and foremost a design competition, students will find themselves performing trade studies and making compromises to arrive at a design solution that will optimally meet the mission requirements while still conforming to the configuration limitations. SAE Aero Design features three classes of competition --- Regular, Advanced, and Micro. Regular Class continues to be the class with the purpose to develop the fundamental understanding of flight. Advanced Class requires teams to have a systems approach to the design while integrating several engineering disciplines such as aeronautical, mechanical, electrical, and computer engineers. The ultimate end goal for this class is autonomous flight with a purpose decided every year by rules committee members. Micro Class teams are required to make trades between two potentially conflicting requirements, carrying the highest payload fraction possible, while simultaneously pursuing the lowest empty weight possible. The students of RoboManipal are into innovations that will ensure the efficient use of energy with minimal or zero pollution of the environment. The robots designed by RoboManipal, the student robotics team of Manipal Institute of Technology (MIT), is a wonderful venture to reduce pollution and also use of clean energy like solar and wind proficiently. Manipal University Pro Chancellor Dr H S Ballal, unveiled the robots designed by RoboManipal. The team will take part in the NationalRobocon 16 India to be held in Pune from March 3 to 5, 2016. The team comprises 33 members including five girls from different branches of engineering. Team leader Satish Reddy said he hopes the team will qualify for the international event to be held in Bangkok later this year. Abu Robocon is the biggest robotics competition in the Asia Pacific region and we are confident of making it to the competition in Thailand, in which 21 teams will take part, from across the globe, he said. We have been working on the robots for the last six months, and six months prior to that, we all studied a lot on robots. It has been a wonderful team effort and we have all worked tirelessly and selflessly, he added. This years Robocon Theme is Clean Energy Recharging the World, proposed by Thailand. The problem statement involves two robots, a manually controlled Hybrid Robot that powers an autonomous Eco Robot as it traverses the arena. The Eco Robot has no on-board power to drive itself and is powered wirelessly by the Hybrid Robot. The project of manufacturing the robots extended to one year and the cost was around Rs six lakh. The robots have the capacity of 3.2 kg of thrust and can carry books and other materials as well as used in warehouses. The energy can be used in industries. The loss in transfer of energy is minimised in the process of using the clean energy. The Electric Ducted Fan is utilised. Both robots are controlled by sharp sensors. Beside Eco Robot comprise of camera through which it can seize and detect the path and also change the path in the required direction, he added. MIT Director Dr G K Prabhu said that the robots are useful on larger scale for automation. It can be used to go to the area and pick things in the large space, he added. RoboManipal has a number of successful performances to its credit over the last few years. It has come a long way since its inception, integrating innovative solutions to complex problems. The team also has alumni who have participated in the 4th international NASALunabotics Mining Competition in 2013. Fracktal Works, a 3-D printing start-up venture that had humble beginnings at the MIT workshop, is now leading the 3-D printing industry in India. The KMC, Mangaluru, has proposed to carry out the infrastructure development of the Government Wenlock Hospital in a public-private partnership (PPP ) at a cost of Rs 50 crore-100 crore. The proposal was made at a meeting chaired by Deputy Commissioner A B Ibrahim at the officers court hall in Mangaluru on Monday. KMC Mangaluru Dean Dr M Venkataraya Prabhu said that the KMC has provided 395 staff including security staff, technical staff and laboratory technicians to Wenlock Hospital, under the PPP model. Making a presentation on the occasion, KMC Department of Pulmonary Medicine Associate Dean and Professor Dr Anand R said that infrastructure development is the need of the hour at the Wenlock Hospital. Improvement is needed especially in major sections such as jail ward, psychiatry ward and orthopaedic wards, he noted. A proposal towards the construction, renovation and construction of a new building at a total cost Rs 50 crore to Rs 100 crore was submitted on the occasion. The proposal includes addition of surgery and emergency wards, 10 operation theatres, surgical ICU, construction of new building consisting of basement, ground, first, second and third floor. The development work may take around five years for completion, he said. The deputy commissioner suggested reserving a two-level parking space and also to increase the space in wards to accommodate more patients. He also told the KMC representatives to come up with an elaborate plan by next week. Man power and maintenance have to be stressed upon, he said. District Surgeon Dr Rajeshwari Devi H R said that the 167-year-old Wenlock Hospital is catering to the needs of patients from not only from Dakshina Kannada district but also from Dharwad, Kodagu and Chikkamagaluru districts. As many as 30,000 inpatients and 3,000 outpatients are admitted each year. Even patients from Bengaluru are referred for super-speciality sometimes. No new staff is being recruited since the last 60 years, she listed out. She further said that every year 6,000 students make use of clinical services at the hospital, under the clinical attachment with private institutions. The deputy commissioner told the district surgeon to write to the institutions to provide nursing staff for a bond period of one year. Dr Rajeshwari Devi said that a shortage of Rs four crore approximately is incurred by the hospital each year and this is covered by Arogya Raksha Samiti through the collection of clinical fee and user charges. District Health Officer Dr Ramakrishna and KMC Hospital, Mangaluru, Associate Dean (Research and Administration) Dr M Chakrapani were present among others. Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals convoy was attacked on the Ludhiana-Ferozepur road in Punjab on Monday. The AAP was quick to describe it as a well-planned conspiracy hatched by the Akalis to eliminate Kejriwal. The chief ministers car was pelted with stones. The cars windscreen was shattered. Kejriwal was sitting on the front seat when the attack took place. After the attack, Kejriwal tweeted, My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals and the Congress nervous? They cant break my spirits. AAP leaders, including Sanjay Singh and others demanded a high-level probe by a sitting judge of the highcourt. An AAP leader said, Deputy Chief Minister Sukhbir Badal is responsible for the attack as it was all planned at the behest of him. Sukhbir Badal has meanwhile condemned the attack. Even the Congress has denounced the incident. Sanjay Singh claimed that the presence of Harkinder Singh, younger brother of Ludhiana MLA Manpreet Singh Ayali apart from Youth Akali leaders Amandeep Singh Aulakh and Prabhdeep Singh Mangat, is enough indication for the conspiracy by Akalis to kill Kejriwal. Kejriwal is on a five-day tour in poll-bound Punjab. The police is also hand-in-glove in the conspiracy as cops deployed for security deliberately guided the convoy to an unscheduled route in the pretext of safety, where more than 100 Akali goons were already in wait for the attack, he alleged. The AAP alleged that the attackers were all trained goons and were entertained with liquor and food at a nearby resort before attack. Asif Ahmed, the 19-year-old polytechnic student detained by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) from Durgapur in West Bengal last week, has admitted to links with the Islamic State (IS). The youth confessed to plans of a terror strike on a popular religious shrineTarakeswar in Bengal, officials claimed. Sources said Asif, who was living under an alias in a rented accommodation at Durgapur in Burdwan district, confessed that he and some others had planned an attack on the much-revered Shiva temple at Tarakeswar, in Hooghly district, around 60 Km from Kolkata. The temple has a steady inflow of pilgrims throughout the year, particularly on the evening of Shiva Ratri every year and on Mondays during the monsoon months. Sources pointed out that NIA officials are trying to ascertain whether Asif and his accomplices had planned to strike on Shiva Ratri, scheduled for March 7. Were trying to find out if they had planned to strike that evening. An attack on Tarakeswar on Shiva Ratri could cause serious damage. Asif has provided us crucial information about the IS structure in Bengal, the officer admitted. Hailing from Dhanekhali in Hooghly, Asif is aware of the locality around the temple and could have helped fine-tune the plan. NIA officials found photographs of the temple on a cell phone seized from Asifs home, along with hand-drawn maps of entry and exit points to the temple complex. Interestingly, Asif told his interrogators that he got in touch with Junudul-Khalifa-e-Hind, the Indian chapter of IS, in a bid to get back at his girlfriend and her family after they spurned him. Asif confessed to joining the IS in a fit of rage after his girlfriend refused to continue the relationship and her relatives threatened to harm him, an officer said. Officials said even though Asif confessed to have joined the IS after hours of interrogation, he has not yet been arrested after officials realised that he is not a radical Islamist by nature. We plan to put him through a deradicalisation programme, the officer said. Asif was picked up from a rented apartment near Durgapur where he lived under the alias Raja Das, along with a few other boys but the rest were found to be unaware of his plans. Fliers may feel the pinch while booking air tickets with the government on Monday proposing a six per cent excise duty hike on jet fuel, but the aviation sector can cheer about the plan to revive unserved airports and exemptions for MRO industry. Air India may also feel glum for the decrease in government investment in the national carrier, while the Civil Aviation Ministry would complain of about the slump in allocation by 23 per cent from Rs 3,341.50 crore to Rs 2,590.68 crore. On one hand, the airfare may increase, while international passengers can look forward to some ease with the simplification of customs baggage rules to increase the free baggage allowance. The filing of baggage declaration will be required only for those passengers who carry dutiable goods. Outlining governments plans for the sector in the budget, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said the government would partner with state governments to develop unserved airports at an indicative cost of Rs 50 crore to Rs 100 crore each. There are about 160 airports and airstrips with state governments. We will partner with state governments to develop some of these airports for regional connectivity. Similarly, 10 of the 25 non-functional air strips with the Airport Authority of India will also be developed, Jaitley said. The excise duty on aviation turbine fuel (ATF) would increase from eight per cent to 14%, which could mean that airlines may pass this on to the customers by increasing airfare. However, there will be no increase in excise duty hike on jet fuel supply to Scheduled Commuter Airlines from the regional connectivity scheme airports and it would remain at existing eight per cent. In good news for maintenance, repair and overhauling (MRO of aircraft) sector, exemption from excise duty is being extended to tools and tool-kits when procured for aircraft subject to a certification by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The government investment in civil aviation sector has also come down to Rs 4,417 crore from the previous allocation of Rs 5,360.95 crore and actual spending of Rs 6,305.89 crore. One of the main victims is Air India, which has been allocated only Rs 2,065 crore as against previous allocation of Rs 3,205 crore and actual investment of Rs 4,200 crore. The Union Home ministry will get Rs 77,383.12 crore in the next fiscal, an increase of 13%, with majority of the allocation going to the paramilitary forces involved in fighting insurgents in Jammu and Kashmir as well as north-east and Maoists. The previous Budget had allocated a total of Rs 68,444.1 crore for the Union Home ministry. In his Budget presented in Parliament on Monday, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley also allocated almost the same amount for modernisation of police as in the previous Budget. According to the Budget documents, Rs 70184.58 crore has been allocated for the paramilitary forces and other police related expenditure, which is up from Rs 62124.52 crore allocated last year. Paramilitary forces alone gets Rs 50,176.45 crore. CRPF gets the highestThe Central Reserve Police Force, which is in the forefront of anti-Maoist operations and anti-militant operations in Jammu and Kashmir, has been allocated the highest Rs 16,228.18 crore. The next in order is the Border Security Force, which is guarding the international border with Pakistan and Bangladesh, with Rs 14,652.90 crore. The Central Industrial Security Force, tasked with security of countrys airports, nuclear installation and key government buildings, has been allocated Rs 6,067.13 crore. The Indo-Tibetan Border Police, guarding the Sino-Indian border, has got Rs 4,231.04 crore and Assam Rifles, deployed in Indo-Myanmar border and dealing with insurgents in the Northeast, will get Rs 4,363.88 crore. Another Rs 2,490 crore has been allocated for erection of barbed wire fencing, construction of roads and induction of hi-tech surveillance on Indo-Bangladesh and Indo-Pak borders. Under the special industry initiative for Jammu and Kashmir, Jaitley has earmarked Rs 70 crore, up from Rs 45 crore. The disaster management apparatus will get Rs 1,579.75 crore. The Crime and Criminal Tracking Network System will get Rs 250 crore while the allocation for modernisation of police forces scheme will get Rs 1,753.90 crore. The Intelligence Bureau will get Rs 1,410.45 crore while Special Protection Group, which guards Prime Minister Narendra Modi and former prime ministers, Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi and Rahul will get Rs 359.55 crore. Another Rs 2,119.88 crore has been kept in the Budget for providing support for research activities in the Home ministry. The Budget allocation for the defence zoomed to Rs 2.49 lakh crore in 2016-17 the highest among all government departments. However, the figure was not mentioned by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in his Budget speech, making him the first in 15 years to skip military allocations. The military allocation was later clarified on Twitter by Minister of State for Finance Jayant Sinha. Defence allocation rises to 2.49 lakh crores, an increase of Rs 24,463 crores over last year, tweeted Sinha. Last years revised estimate was Rs 2.24 lakh crore as the defence ministry was unable to spend a large part of its budget. The enhancement is just about Rs 2300 crore, but when compared against the revised estimate, the increase is much more. The allocation in 2016-17 for capital expenditure, meant for purchasing new military hardware and payment for existing contracts has been pegged at Rs 86340 crore. This is substantially lower than the allocations under the same head in the last two fiscals, when the defence ministry could not spend the money it received. The allocation for defence pension, however, has been enhanced this time by more than Rs 22,000 crore as the government is set to implement the one rank one pension scheme for the ex-servicemen. A special allocation of Rs 3600 crore was made in the telecommunications budget to set up an optical fibre network for the defence services. Notwithstanding the hike, Indias defence expenditure remains just about 2% of the GDP, which is lower than Pakistan and China that spent much more on the military affairs. As India remains one of the worlds most lucrative arms market, with 14% of global arms import, Jaitley provided some tax sops to spur growth in defence production. The NDA plans big on defence manufacturing as a key component of the Make in India programme. In 201115, Indias imports were three times greater than either of its regional rivals: China and Pakistan. A major reason for high level of imports is that Indias arms industry has so far largely failed to produce competitive indigenously-designed weapons, says a new report from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. Between 200610 and 201115, imports increased by 90%. The High Court on Monday directed the Additional Chief Secretary, Urban Development, to consider the application of Koramangala residents for sanction to prosecute the then BBMP commissioner, M Lakshminarayana. Namma Bengaluru Foundation had approached the court after repeated letters to the government for sanction order to prosecute Lakshminarayana did not elicit any response. The Foundation wanted to start criminal proceedings against him for issuing trade licence to a person for operating a commercial outlet in a residential area. It contended that Lakshminarayana had made a note to Palikes health officials , Please help in getting the trade licence to a person who is running an eatery Breakfast Club in a residential area in Koramangala. It said by granting the licence, the commissioner violated the Revised Master Plan 2015 that disallowed commercial activity on roads measuring 40 feet or less. A division bench of Chief Justice S K Mukherjee and Justice Ravi Malimath directed the government to consider the representation within six weeks. The Budget that was presented by the finance minister is to be analysed in the backdrop of the Economic Survey that preceded the Budget and the expectations different stake holders had about the Budget. On the performance of the agricultural sector, the Survey stressed on the declining growth in agriculture, owing to two consecutive drought years and decline in production. The agricultural sectors ongoing performance struggles and the contemporary agrarian distress are causes of concern in terms of food and income security as well as rural poverty alleviation. The main reason for slow growth and underperformance of this sector is the declining public investment. The successive Budget allocations for agricultural sector were very often marginal. The pre-budget survey recommended that the transformation in agriculture has to be steered by expansion of irrigation coverage via efficient micro-irrigation technologies, cultivation of less water intensive crops, and revamp of research and extension services. An impartial analysis of 2016-17 Budget reveals that while most of the existing provisions have been continued, a number of new initiatives have been taken by the finance minister for bringing in more investment in the farm sector promoting growth in key areas and farmers welfare. In his Budget speech, he emphasized the vital need for ensuring income security to the farmers who are striving to provide food security to the nation. The govt intends to double the incomes of farmers by 2020. The 2016-17 Budget could be termed an agricultural budget since agriculture topped Arun Jaitelys 9-point strategy to transform India. As outlined in the Budget speech, the strategy for the farm sector centers around optimal utilization of water resources, soil conservation, rationalization of fertilizer usage and an appropriate approach for farm to market planning. While Rs 35,984 crore was allocated for agriculture in the next financial year the outlay under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA) Programme is being enhanced to Rs 38,500 crore. The proposal to introduce universal coverage of cooking gas is mainly intended to benefit the poor in the rural areas. The 2015-16 target of agricultural credit of Rs 8.5 lakh crore is now enhanced to Rs 9 lakh crore for 2016-17. The proposed Soil Health Card Scheme and the Common E-Market Platform etc are expected to transform the rural sectors performance ecosystem. The expectation to expand irrigation coverage via efficient micro- irrigation technologies could be realized by the dedicated fund worth Rs 20,000 earmarked in the budget for irrigation set up under National Agricultural Bank for Rural Development (NABARD). The finance minister also announced a Nabard managed crop insurance scheme with a nominal premium and high compensation in the event of a crop failure. The government, under the budgetary provisions plans to bring 5 lakh acres under organic farming over a period of three years. Though much emphasis is given to revive growth rate in the farm sector, strategies for increasing the yield and reducing water use didnt get the importance they deserve. Agriculture and allied services now contribute about 18.5 per cent of Indias GDP and employ about 58 per cent of the workforce. They account for 10.95 per cent of Indias exports and about 46 per cent of Indias geographical area is used for agricultural sector. For the much needed breakthrough in our primary sector, the Budget should have pinpointed strategies for revamping research and extension services. (The writer is a Bengaluru-based professor of economics, and consultant lawyer) The Government proposed to spend Rs 9,000 crore in 2016-17 for Prime Minister Narendra Modis pet project Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley noted that Swachh Bharat Mission was Indias biggest drive to improve sanitation and cleanliness, especially in rural India. This subject was very close to the heart of the Father of the Nation. For the first time since independence, the Parliament held a comprehensive debate on sanitation. This has become a topic of discussion in almost every home, said Jaitley. Prime Minister Narendra Modi launched the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan on October 2, 2014. The mission is aimed at achieving universal sanitation coverage and eliminating open defecation by October 2, 2019. It is also aimed at promoting better hygiene amongst the population and improving cleanliness by initiating Solid and Liquid Waste Management projects in villages, towns and cities. In order to continue this momentum, priority allocation from Centrally Sponsored Schemes will be made to reward villages that have become free from open defecation, said Jaitley. The Economic Survey pointed out that sanitation coverage in rural areas expanded after Swachh Bharat Abhiyan. Jaitley on Monday earmarked Rs 14,010 crore for the Ministry of Drinking Water and Sanitation in 2016-17, raising it from Rs 12,091 crore allocated in the previous financial year. Last year, the Union Budget mainly focussed on taxation, Swachch Bharat, education, welfare schemes to name a few. This year, the budgetary outlay in power sector has increased over the previous Budget. While the fund allocation in DDGJY & IPDS has increased from Rs 4,500 crore to Rs 8,500 crore, the focus is on MSME, entrepreneurs & startups to help electrical equipment manufacturers. Moreover to give a boost to nuclear power, the government has allocated Rs 3,000 crore for nuclear power. IEEMA welcomes the Union Budget 2016-17 announced by the Union finance minister as a balanced Budget. The Budget is in continuation of the governments commitment to provide 24x7 electricity For all, with increased allocation in the power sector. The focus on augmenting nuclear power with an allocation of Rs 3,000 crore is a welcome step and reflects the government's intent to achieve the right fuel balance. While the finance minister has not gone overboard to make some populist announcements, yet he did his best to strike a balance between short-term growth and sustainable economic gains and has done a great balancing job. This will give a big boost to the infrastructure and rural sector. With a budgetary outlay of Rs 79,884 crore to the power sector in the new Budget, there is an increase over previous year. The electrical industry is hopeful that the government will take all steps to ensure that there is full utilisation of funds allocated. Substantial emphasis is given to Stand up & Start Up India to make it a reality. A large section of the society, with lack of opportunity, shall benefit out of this. The industry welcomed the governments commitment to achieve 100 per cent rural electrification by May 1, 2018. A fund allocation of Rs 8,500 crore, out of which Rs 3,000 crore and Rs 5,500 crore was allocated to Deendayal Upadhyaya Gram Jyoti Yojana and Integrated Power Development Scheme respectively. The proposal to increase the Presumptive Taxation Scheme for MSMEs from Rs 1 crore to Rs 2 crore will bring big relief to a large number of assesses in the MSME category. The Budget 2016-17 addresses skill development and new job creation, with 1,500 Multi Skill Training Institutes proposed to be set up under Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana, across the country with an amount of Rs 1,700 crore. Moreover, the proposal to set up a National Board for Skill Development Certification in partnership with the industry and academia is encouraging, which will train one crore youth over the next three years, further benefitting the manufacturing sector. This will also result in uniformity of growth and development across the country.IEEMA echoes the The Make In India and Skill India campaigns of the government. This conforms to IEEMA's objectives to promote domestic production and focus on exports through its 'Made In India' proposition. The industry eagerly awaited for announcement of a roadmap for implementation of the Goods & Services Tax (GST) regime, which will positively impact complicated tax issues and boost productivity and businessdevelopment. However, there was no mention about the same. (The author is the Director General of IEEMA) The government will spend more on women as allocations on various programs aimed at improving the conditions of women and empowering them have substantially been increased by 11. 5 percent. The government will spend over Rs 90,624 crore this year against Rs 81,249 crore in 2015-16. The Gender Budget is the part of the Budget and it gives the amount spend on women-specific programmes. The Gender Budget includes expenditure for both 100 % women-specific programs and programs in which at least 30 percent are spent on women. The increase in allocations has been made in most programmes, including programs that are being run by various ministries. They include programs run under health, education and other ministries. However, the allocations for the Ministry of Women and Child Development have increased only marginally from Rs 17,351 to Rs 17,408. The Integrated Child Development Services Scheme (ICDS) is the flagship scheme of the ministry. The allocation for ICDS is Rs 14,000 crore for this year. This scheme seeks to provide an integrated package of health, supplementary nutrition and education services to children up to six years of age, pregnant women and nursing mothers. Rajiv Gandhi Scheme for Empowerment of Adolescent Girls (SABLA) is a comprehensive scheme that address the multidimensional problems of adolescent girls (11-18 years) and is being implemented in 205 districts across the country. The allocation of SABLA for this is Rs 460 crore. Indira Gandhi Matritva Sahyog Yojna (IGMSY), a Conditional Maternity Benefit (CMB) scheme, is a pilot intervention in selected 53 districts of the country using the framework of the existing ICDS programme. The allocation for IGMSY this year is Rs 400 crore. Another centrally-sponsored scheme Integrated Child Protection Scheme (ICPS) is being implemented with a view to create a safe and secure environment for comprehensive development of children. The allocation for ICPS for 2016-17 is Rs 400 crore. Beti Bachao Beti Padhao is an initiative of the government which aims at addressing the issue of declining child sex ratio (CSR) through a mass campaign in 100 selected districts low on CSR. Scheme has been extended to another 61 Districts. An allocation of Rs 100 crore has been made for the scheme. CUPERTINO, calif. Apple CEO Tim Cook defended his companys opposition to the FBIs iPhone-hacking plan at its annual shareholder meeting, one day after the tech giant formally challenged a court order to help the FBI unlock an encrypted iPhone used by a murderous extremist in San Bernardino, Calif. We do these because these are the right things to do, Cook said in a brief reference to the companys privacy stance in the case. Major tech companies are also rallying to Apples cause and now plan a joint friend of the court brief on its behalf. Facebook said it will join with Google, Twitter and Microsoft on a joint court filing. A Twitter spokeswoman confirmed that plan but said that different companies and trade associations will likely file multiple briefs. Federal officials have said theyre only asking for narrow assistance in bypassing some of the phones security features. Apple contends the order would force it to write a software program that would make other iPhones vulnerable to hacking by authorities or criminals in the future. Apple filed court papers Thursday that asked U.S. Magistrate Sheri Pym to reverse her order on the grounds that it over-reached the governments legal authority by forcing the company to weaken the security of its own products. The company accused the government of seeking dangerous power through the courts and of trampling on its constitutional rights. The dispute raises broad issues of legal and social policy, with at least one poll showing 51 percent of Americans think Apple should cooperate by helping the government unlock the iPhone. But its unclear how the controversy might affect Apples business. Analysts at Piper Jaffray said a survey they commissioned last week found the controversy wasnt hurting the way most Americans think about Apple or its products. At least one shareholder at Fridays meeting voiced support for the companys stance. Apple is 100 percent correct in not providing or doing research to create software to break into it, said Tom Rapko, an Apple investor from Santa Barbara, Calif., as he waited in line to enter the auditorium at Apples headquarters. I think if you give the government an inch, theyll take a yard. The company also received support from the Rev. Jesse Jackson and a representative from the Electronic Frontier Foundation, an Internet rights groups. We applaud your leadership, Jackson, a longtime civil rights leader and former adviser to Martin Luther King Jr., told Cook. I recall the FBI wiretapping Dr. King in the civil rights movement, he added. We cannot go down this path again. Some of us do remember the days of (former FBI director J. Edgar) Hoover and McCarthy and Nixon and enemies lists. Apples share price has seen little change since the issue erupted in the news last week. Overall, though, the companys stock has declined in recent months over worries that iPhone sales were slowing around the world. A hearing on the iPhone legal dispute is scheduled for next month. The government has again delayed the publication of its childhood obesity strategy, much to the anger of health charities and campaigners. The strategy, which was originally expected before the end of 2015, will not be published until the summer. The controversial introduction of sugar tax is likely not in there, according to a government spokesperson. The strategy has now been pushed back three times: first to January, then to February or March, now till the summer. Campaigners concerned about the lack of government measures to prevent obesity and type 2 diabetes in children have criticised the delays, with one commentator describing them as unacceptable. The government has ascribed the delays to the complexity of the issue, and the importance of creating the most effective possible strategy. A spokesperson from the Department of Health said: It is a very complex issue and there is a lot of work going on to get it right. There are a lot of different issues that need considering and we want to make sure it is right when we put it out. David Cameron and Jeremy Hunt have said they want it to be a game-changing moment. But Tam Fry, of the Child Growth Foundatio, has described the delays as unacceptable: This constant delay in publishing the childhood obesity strategy is unforgivable and the statement that they want to get it right is the most ridiculous and lame excuse. The Department of Health, and No. 10 who is pulling its strings, have had literally months to get it right and it is a fair bet that its essential elements have been finalised for some time. In the words of Englands chief medical officer, Dame Sally Davies, the current epidemic is a national emergency, which should be tackled by immediate action at Cobra level and not put off at the whim of any politician. Health secretary Jeremy Hunt regards childhood obesity as a great scandal and has promised draconian and robust action to address it. But what have we got? Total inaction. The sugar tax When the strategy is published, it is unlikely that it will include a sugar tax. A spokesperson said: As far as Im aware its not in there. We as a government are committed to keeping taxes low and not introducing new taxes. I dont think it will be in there. Celebrity chef Jamie Oliver is among the high-profile advocates of the sugar tax. Ben Reynolds, of the Childrens Food Campaign, which has collaborated with Oliver on pushing for a sugar tax, said: It would be disappointing if a sugary drinks tax is not included. Accepting the possibility that the government may have alternative, equally effective plans, Reynolds said: We would like to see a timescale and some metrics on how they judge that industry has responded. A vague threat it is nothing without that. Alternative sugar-cutting measures might include regulations on sugar, with financial penalty for companies that dont comply. Several organisations, including Cancer Research UK and the British Heart Foundatio, have called for a ban on advertising of unhealthy food before the 9pm watershed. Currently, no such measures exist. The only existing measures for reducing sugar content in food is the responsibility deal, which asks food producers to reduce the sugar content in their foods. However, there are no sanctions for those companies who fail to comply, and studies have found the responsibility deal ineffective. The lifespan of the short-lived killifish could shed new light on the lifespans of humans, according to new research. The study, which was conducted by researchers at the Scuola Normale Superiore in Pisa, Italy, and the Leibniz Institute of Aging in Jena, Germany, could also lead to new strategies for treating age-related disease such as type 2 diabetes. How was the study conducted? The researchers hypothesised that the African turquoise killifish the vertebrate with the shortest lifespan could provide new information on the relationship between gene expression and age-related diseases. To find out, they divided the fins of killifish into different groups, based on their longevity. At most, killifish live for 12 months, but around four months is more common. In the killifish who lived for the longest, the genes that are responsible for cellular respiration (which occurs when mitochondria within cells use oxygen to burn sugar) were less active at a young age. Next, the researchers exposed the fish to a low dose of rotenone, a natural poison that inhibits the proteins that trigger cellular respiration. The killifish lived longer as a result. It is not guaranteed that the findings will be replicated in humans, although the researchers have reason to be hopeful: both killifish and humans lose mitochondria function as they get older, and this research contradicts previous assumptions that improving mitochondrial function would make older people healthier. Up to the present, it was thought that improving mitochondrial function would improve health in aged people; however, our results indicate a more complex scenario where the partial inhibition of mitochondrial function paradoxically has beneficial effects, said Alessandro Cellerino, of the Scuola Normale Superiore in Pisa, Italy, and the Leibnez Institute of Aging in Jena, Germany. Why might this be the case? It is not entirely understood why slightly decreasing mitochondrial function makes killifish and potentially humans live longer, but the researchers suspect it may be down to a mechanism that adapts to stress. Cellerino explained: The mechanism of adaptation after stress is called hormesis, and it was recently demonstrated that the positive effects of physical exercise in humans are due to hormesis and are destroyed by treatment with antioxidants. This obviously has implications on the development of strategies to improve health in older people and prevent aging-associated diseases. The researchers note that there are already approved drugs that slightly inhibit mitochondrial complex I, which this study found can improve health in old age. The popular type 2 diabetes medication metformin is one such drug. A recent study found that metformin can extend the lifespan of mice, and it also inhibits mitochondrial complex I; its quite possible that the two things are related. Based on our data, we strongly suspect that the effect of metformin was due to inhibition of complex I and not to its anti-diabetic action. The findings are published in Cell Systems. Tesseract is a name you would probably and commonly associate with the ancient Asgardian infinity stone with unmeasurable power, owned by Thors father Odin (Marvel fans will know). But, in the real world, Tesseract is an Indian startup on track for greatness, and instead of making mythical cosmic cubes, they make 360 degree Virtual Reality cameras, which can map any room or location in 3D. I had the opportunity to meet with Tesseract CEO & Founder - Kshitij Marwah, who was carefully arranging his products for a showcase at the WPP Stream unconference, held in Jaipur recently. The tech lab at Stream is great place to discover some immensely talented homegrown startups, with one thing in common - An undying passion for technology. So, this, a single hall flooded with aspiration, is where I found Kshitij, Tesseract...and a very geeky story. Methane: The First 360 degree 3D mapping camera by Tesseract Methane, the first India-made 360 VR camera by Tesseract "If VR headsets are the future of seeing media, we are going to invent the future of capturing media. With that one statement, Kshitij kicked off his presentation of the Methane 360 VR camera. Mounted atop a cylindrical base, the Methane has a 360 degree revolving head that houses the camera unit. The purpose of Methane is to map any room or location in 3D and 360, ensuring multiple use cases for the likes of real estate companies, hotel booking websites, travel portals and more. Imagine looking for rental properties without actually enduring the pain and hassle of visiting hundreds of houses in a day. With the help of images captured by 360 VR cameras like Methane, users will be able to do a virtual walkthrough of houses, rooms and spaces, without having to visit them in person. This though is just one of the many use cases for Methane. The 360 camera can also become a tool for architects to create floor plans automatically. Some well known names in Tesseracts client list include Commonfloor.com, Housing.com, NestAway and more. The Methane can shoot in three different modes: 9 MP Full Spherical 360 x 340 (2-Cam Mode) 12 MP Full Spherical 360 x 340 (3-Cam Mode) Auto Exposure and 3 High Dynamic Range (HDR) Capture Modes Methane houses a single camera setup, rotating on a particular axis, which is assisted by onboard High Dynamic Range (HDR), stitching, blending and compression of 360 VR images and walkthroughs. Powering the camera for all the computations, the Tesseract team packed in a dual-core 1 GHz processor with 1GB of RAM into an Anodized Aluminium body. Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n along with a 3D unit for mapping dimensions were placed on board and the whole body of the camera was made to act as an antenna. The result - a 360 VR camera that can click 200 360 VR shots in a single day. Methane takes 2 minutes to scan a single room in 360 VR with dimensions and 20 minutes to scan a full 2 BHK house, with real-time upload. The whole package is powered by a 6500 mAh battery. The Methane can be bought in two variants, with or without a 3D sensor and the price ranges between Rs. 1.5 lakh to Rs 2 lakh. With the explosion of Virtual Reality viewing devices such as the Samsung Gear VR, Oculus Rift, HTC Vive and future consumer grade headsets like the Playstation VR and Microsoft HoloLens, there is also a major need to grow the VR content space. Lets face it, these headsets dont and will not come cheap in the near future and if you end up buying one, the endless possibilities of virtual reality will always leave you wanting more. This is where startups like Tesseract come in. The Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality industry has always been a ground for startup innovation. Oculus, one of the most commonly uttered names for head mounted displays was a startup that was later acquired by social media giant Facebook for a whopping $2 Billion. Magic Leap is another AR startup that is now backed by the likes of Google, Qualcomm and more. Tesseract though, is a startup on the other side of the VR spectrum. While head mounted displays mushroom, we will also see the advent of consumer grade VR cameras, hopefully housed in the smartphones of the future. The innovation behind such devices will come from startups such as Tesseract. Another factor that makes Tesseract stand apart from the crowd of Silicon valley VR startups is the fact that all their products are designed as well as manufactured in India. From the fabrication of the product in Marol, Mumbai to packaging in Dharavi, the largest slum colony in the world, Methane is a thorough desi-bred 360 VR camera. All the manufacturing is taking place in Mumbai, Pune and Gurgaon. All the electronics are being manufactured in Ahmedabad, Surat and Bangalore. We actually spent 6-7 months discovering the manufacturing processes and whether it is possible to do it in India. We took a bet that most people go to China, but were going to make a product that has been made end-to-end in India, boasted Marwah. The Future of Tesseracts VR Imagery ViCam, the upcoming 360 VR camera from Tesseract Tesseract also has another 360 VR cam in the pipeline called the ViCam. While the Methane captured 360 VR images using a single cam, the ViCam houses 2 cameras that sit inside of an aerospace grade Aluminium body. You can drop it off from the third floor and nothing will happen to the body, claims Marwah. The ViCam features a 5MP sensor from Sony and a 2GHz quad-core processor for undistorting, stitching and blending videos and images. The Vicam is powered by a 3000mAh battery which can last for 1 hour for continuous recording. Marwah says that his team is working on optimising the battery before the market launch of the ViCam and their plan is to enter the market with at least 4 hours of recording. Neat, Isnt it? So, that is the story of Tesseract so far. An emerging star in the niche Indian hardware startup space, Two amazingly innovative products and a team of dedicated techies, foraying bravely into the vortex of virtual reality. While we wait for Tesseract to do greater things, you can come back to this space for a video demo of the Tesseract Methane and the Tesseract ViCam. Until then, keep it with Digit for more coverage of interesting tech startups emerging out of India. Google wants to test the project in expensive and scarce spectrum bands and has been asked to partner with any operator that can meet its requirements The Government of India has asked Google to choose a telecom partner for testing Project Loon in the country. An official told PTI, Google wants to test the Loon Project in expensive and scarce spectrum bands. It has been asked to partner with any telecom operator that can meet its requirement and then approach the government for testing Loon. He added that if Google wishes to conduct a test in partnership with state-owned BSNL, it can carry out the experiment in the spectrum held by the company. Google is planning to setup Project Loon in India and the company had an in-principle agreement with the Government of India after CEO, Sundar Pichais visit to the country. However, the company wishes to conduct the test in 700MHz or 800MHz band instead of the 2500MHz band held by BSNL. The 700MHz band is the most expensive and efficient for telecom services and hasnt been allocated to a telecom operator yet. The Telecom Regulatory Authority of India (TRAI) has suggested including the spectrum in the upcoming spectrum auction at a minimum price of Rs. 11,485 crore with operators having to buy a minimum of 5MHz. Slater & Gordon, the Australian company that bought most of beleaguered UK insurance technology group Quindell nearly a year ago, reported a first half loss of nearly AUD1bn on Monday. For the six months to 31 December, the company swung to a loss after tax of $958.3m (493.6m) compared with a profit of $49.29m in the same period a year ago. This was despite an increase in revenue to $487.5m from $267.7m, and was primarily on the back of a $814.2m (420m) writedown incurred on its acquisition of the professional services arm of Quindell. Last April, Melbourne-based Slater & Gordon bought Quindells personal injury business for AUD1.3bn with the intention of tapping into the car accident claims market. However, since then, the proposed tightening of UK compensation laws to crack down on fraudulent injury claims has put earnings prospects for that business in doubt. The company whose bookkeeping has been the subject of an eight-month review by the Australian Securities and Investment Commission (ASIC) said it will not be paying a dividend. Shares in Slater & Gordon have fallen sharply in the last year amid worries about the Quindell deal and the way in which the firm draws up its accounts. The ASIC said on Monday that its investigation into the law firm included the recoverable amount of goodwill attributable to the companys Australian and UK businesses. Slater & Gordon shares tumbled 30% to AUD0.58. Stocks in London are expected to open lower on Monday, taking their cue from a downbeat session in Asia after the G20 meeting in Shanghai failed to result in coordinated action to bolster growth. Londons FTSE 100 is expected to open 41 points lower than Fridays close at 6,055. On the data front, UK net consumer credit, money supply and mortgage approvals are all due at 0930 GMT. In the US, Chicago PMI is at 1445 GMT while pending home sales are at 1500 GMT. Barclays evaluating options regarding Africa business Barclays noted recent media speculation regarding a potential sale of its shareholding in Barclays Africa Group Limited and said it was evaluating its strategic options. The bank said it expects to update the market on Tuesday with its full year results for 2015. WPPs operating network Millward Brown, which specialises in brand, media and communications research, has agreed to acquire the business operations of marketing analytics company Analytics Quotient (AQ) for an undisclosed sum. India-based AQ extracts insights from data to help clients define their marketing strategies and builds data visualisation tools and custom analytics solutions to help clients slice, dice, simulate and monitor business data. A strategy of growth by acquisition paid off for Bunzl last year, with the company reporting positive numbers in the 2015 calendar year on Monday. The FTSE 100 distribution and outsourcing firm saw revenue grow 5% in both reported and constant currency terms, to 6.49bn. Adjusted operating profit rose 6% to 455m, adjusted profit before income tax 6% to 411.2m, and adjusted earnings per share rose 6% as well, to 91p. Bunzl's board recommended a final dividend of 26.25p. The company also announced it had completed the acquisition of Brazilian firm Dental Sorria and US business Earthwise Bag Company, and had entered into an agreement to acquire Turkish packaging and foodservice group Bursa Pazari Insaat Sanayi ve Ticaret AS. India plans to cut its fiscal deficit to 3.5% of gross domestic product (GDP) for 2016-17, from 3.9% the year before, according to the countrys finance minister Arun Jaitley. Presenting his governments annual budget to parliament on Monday, Jaitley also said India would remove 13 different taxes and streamline its taxation norms, which would simplify doing business in the country and boost business confidence. No service tax would be levied on houses built under 60 square metres, while a tax holiday was announced for start-ups for three of five years of setting up the company. However, excise duty on tobacco products was hiked by 10% to 15%. The country's export tax on low grade iron ore would be scrapped, but Jaitley said India would impose a higher import duty on aluminium. He also identified 160 airports and airstrips in India which could be revived. Elsewhere in his speech, the finance minister said the government would permit 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in marketing of food products produced and manufactured in India, via its established single window clearance procedures for overseas investors. Small shops would be given the choice to remain open on all seven days a week. On the monetary policy front, Jaitley said the country's Reserve Bank of India Act would be amended, so that its central bank benefits from a monetary policy committee. The move is in line with a reform sought by RBI governor Raghuram Rajan. The minister also put forward plans to boost rural infrastructure spending by $12.7bn (9.15bn). They include 89 new projects for irrigation, a doubling of investments in rural roads to help farmers get produce to market, improving availability of gas to millions of poor households and funds for female entrepreneurs from poorer backgrounds. The government would also increase spending on rural employment schemes, a crop insurance programme for farmers and improve rural access to the Internet. Plans are also afoot for the electrification of all of the countrys villages within two fiscal years, Jaitley added. India has posted impressive growth in recent fiscal quarters, despite concerns of economic headwinds. Official data published by the governments Central Statistics Office (CSO) suggests the countrys GDP grew at an average rate of 7.5% in 2015, outpacing the 6.9% growth recorded by China. At the close of trading in Mumbai, the Indian rupee rose against the dollar, with $1 changing hands at INR 68.4335, around 0.31% lower. US coffee chain Starbucks is to open its first store in Italy, the company confirmed on Monday. Starbucks said its first Italian outlet will open in Milan early in 2017, in partnership with Italian developer Percassi. Howard Schultz, chairman and chief executive of the company, said the store will be designed with "painstaking attention to detail" to "honour the Italian people and their coffee culture". "Visually, it has to be a very seductive place where Starbucks comes alive," he added. Schultz said a trip to Milan in the 1980s, where he saw locals gathering at coffee bars, served as the inspiration to set up a coffee shop in US. "The dream of the company always has been to sometime complete the circle and open in Italy, but we haven't been ready." With plans finally in place for a launch, Schultz promised Starbucks would enter the birthplace of the espresso "with humility and respect." Resource stocks managed to keep headline London indices in marginally positive territory on Monday, following an uptick in major commodity futures contracts. At the close of proceedings, the FTSE 100 ended a mere 0.02% or 1.08 points higher at 6097.09, while the FTSE 250 ended 0.22% or 36.04 points higher at 16,603.08. Oil futures began the week on a positive footing, as Saudi Arabia said it would work with other producers to limit oil market volatility. "The kingdom (of Saudi Arabia) seeks to achieve stability in the oil markets and will always remain in contact with all main producers in an attempt to limit volatility and it welcomes any cooperative action," the Saudi cabinet said in a statement. Saudi Arabia and fellow OPEC members Venezuela and Qatar, agreed with non-OPEC Russia this month to freeze output at January levels. But Iran refused to join in while it takes advantage of the recent lifting of its international economic sanctions. At 1702 GMT, the Brent front month futures contract was up 2.51% or 88 cents to $35.98 per barrel, while the WTI rose 2.29% or 75 cents to $33.53 per barrel. However, analysts remain unconvinced about the possibility of a coordinated OPEC and non-OPEC production freeze, and whether the move itself would have a tangible impact, if it were to materialise. Away from oil markets, precious metals saw a marginal recovery. The COMEX front-month gold futures contract was up $1.06% or $12.90 at $1,239.10 an ounce, while spot gold was up 0.73% or $8.94 to $1,232.40 an ounce. COMEX silver rose 1.06% or 16 cents to $14.87 an ounce, and spot platinum headed 1.37% or $12.55 higher as well to $926.80 an ounce. Headline base metal futures were higher across the London Metal Exchange board. At 1635 GMT, three-month futures contracts of nickel (up 0.2%), lead (up 1.8%), tin (up 0.2%) and primary aluminium (up 1.3%) headed higher, but the copper contract shed 0.5%. Predictably, Anglo American (up 6.58%) and Glencore (up 3.90%) were among the biggest FTSE 100 gainers. On the FTSE 250, Vedanta Resources led way, posting a gain of 9% or 22.8p to 276.10p, ending the session as the biggest riser across the main market following positive taxation norms revealed in Indias budget. Under new fiscal rules, India will shelve export taxes on low-grade iron ore, a move that should benefit the FTSE 250 miner but could lead to further worldwide oversupply. Announcing a populist budget, the Indian government said the export tax on low grade iron ore would be scrapped but it would impose a higher import duty on aluminium, another commodity Vedanta produces. Vedanta restarted exports from its Goa iron ore operations last autumn, with production of around 3.5m tons forecast by the 31 March year end, on top of the 2.3m annual capped output from the neighbouring state of Karnataka. Oilfield services company Amec Foster Wheeler (up 5.71%) was another FTSE 250 high riser, along with rival Weir Group (up 2.26%), despite the latter being hit by a downgrade from Moodys. Away from resource stocks, pharmaceutical firm AstraZeneca (down 2.32%) found itself in the company of blue chip losers, despite announcing that it has entered into a licensing deal with China Medical System Holdings Ltd for the commercialisation rights in China to its hypertension medicine Plendil. HSBC was in the red after Bernstein downgraded the stock to underperform from market perform and cut the price target to 380p from 550p. Elsewhere, supermarket retailer Tesco headed lower after denying reports it was planning to cut store staff numbers by 39,000 over the next three years. Rival Morrisons shares rose after it announced a new supply agreement with online retailer Amazon that will make hundreds of its products available to Amazon Prime Now and Amazon Pantry customers in the coming months. Arace: MLS announcers signed off, don't know if they can sign back on columns Halloween creatures owls, crows and bats all live at Crossroads, and that makes us very happy, for these scary animals make a positive contribution to the habitats of the preserve. We don't even mind black cats, IF they are kept indoors. Feral and outdoor cats are exceedingly harmful to wildlife ... and that's not a superstition! But to tamp down superstitions, we at Crossroads will spend the week demystifying Halloween creatures. On October 28, 2022, at 6 p.m. will be our Evening with Owls. The Open Door Bird Sanctuary will be at Crossroads, offering a one-hour presentation followed by the opportunity to meet and greet live birds. Learn all about owls and the other incredible birds in the care of the Sanctuary! Down through the centuries, in many cultures throughout the world, owls have been associated with evil and death. Truth is, owls probably are not smart enough to be evil. But researchers agree that owls are about as dim as the nighttime forests in which they hunt. Owls don't need to be smart. They have everything else going for them. They are muscular. They fly silently. Their huge eyes enable them to see in the dark. Their beaks and talons are strong and wickedly sharp. But their sensitive ears are what make owls extraordinary hunters. Most people assume that the plumicorns (a.k.a. "horns) of an owl are its ears. Not so. The actual ears lie under feathers on the sides of the head, and they aren't symmetrical. Because one ear is higher than the other and the ears are unequal in size, sound is different from different directions, helping owls locate prey, which they do almost unfailingly, even in total darkness. Owls do not smell their prey. As with most birds, the sense of smell is insignificant, if it exists are all. Great Horned Owls frequently prey on skunks. Enough said. But well-developed intelligence? Researchers have observed owls beating their wings on bushes to try to flush out little birds. Is this learned behavior? Is it problem-solving? Maybe. For the most part, owls do not have a lot of problems to solve. They appropriate abandoned nests of other birds, so they don't need building skills. They are stealthy by nature, and they pounce on and usually catch anything they hear, so they don't need hunting techniques. In spite of ghost stories, legends of American First People, and superstitions from Europe and India, hooting owls do not foretell impending death, although their nocturnal calls are spooky. We hear them now and then this time of year, but we will regularly hear those eerie calls at Crossroads in January or February. In contrast to owls, crows are noisy all year round and they are amazingly intelligent. They can learn. They can remember. They can solve problems. They can even identify individual humans. And they detest owls, though whether this is innate or learned behavior is not clear. Those curious about crows will want to attend the Crossroads Book Club on Wednesday, October 26, at 10:00 a.m. This month, the book Crow Planet, Essential Wisdom for the Urban Wilderness by Lyanda Lynn Haupt will explore the fascinating world of these remarkable birds. The program is free and open to all, whether or not they have read the book. So bring the family to our program on owls, learn about crows at the Crossroads Book Club, or learn about bats at our pre-school Junior Nature Club on Wednesday at 10:00 a.m. or our Family Science Saturday program at 2:00 p.m. Costumes are encouraged but not required at Junior Nature Club and Science Saturday, and adult visitors are welcome. SLOCOMB - Increased state funding for pre-k programs has allowed Slocomb Elementary School to offer a pre-k classroom for the past two years, allowing local four-year-olds to get a better start on their education. Early childhood education advocates are pushing for increased funding next year, which will allow the program to reach more students. Its a wonderful opportunity to prepare children for kindergarten, Slocomb Elementary School Principal Barbara Greathouse said. Allison Muhlendorf, executive director of the Alabama School Readiness Alliance, said her organizations Pre-K Task Force is recommending increasing the budget for state-funded pre-k programs by $20 million. Alabama has one of the best-regarded pre-K programs in the country, but it only provides services for about a fifth of eligible four-year-olds. The program is delivered through public schools, private day cares and religiously-affiliated organizations. The Alabama School Readiness Alliance has advocated for increases for the past few years and has gotten them. The organization has a 10-year plan to gradually increase funding until all eligible students are covered. State Rep. Donnie Chesteen visited Slocomb Elementary School on Monday and said he supports increasing funding for pre-K. Chesteen said funding for education this year is likely to be better than it has been in several years and that the Legislature is looking at adding $50 million to the education budget, hiring about 475 new teachers and giving a 4 percent raise to educators making less than $75,000 and a 2 percent raise to those making more than $75,000. I cant think of a better investment than continuing to increase funding for first class pre-k, he said. Slocombs current pre-k classroom accommodates 18 students. The class fills up quickly and additional funding could allow the school to open another. Pre-k classrooms are taught by a highly qualified teacher and aide. Sarah Jones is the teacher at Slocomb Elementary. Jones said the pre-k program helps acclimate students to school, giving them the social and academic skills they need to prosper. A lot of them havent been around other kids, theyve been at home or with grandma, she said. Jones said the program has a real impact on students performance once they reach kindergarten. Research appears to support this claim. Figures from the Alabama Department of Early Childhood Education, Public Affairs Research Council of Alabama and other organizations show that Alabama First Class Pre-K alums consistently do well in kindergarten and outperform their peers in reading and math and are less likely to repeat a grade. dpa ElectionsData With dpa ElectionsData you get access to a unique collection of data. Via a programming interface (Rest-API), your developers can access detailed information, candidate profiles and live results for all national elections in the European Union and important international elections, like the US Midterm elections etc. The data pool also includes all heads of state and government as well as about 20,000 elected members of parliament throughout the EU. In addition to their data (name, party, constituency or list position), we collect social media profiles and official websites of individuals and parties. Toyota's answer to the likes of the Mazda CX-3 and Honda HR-V has been leaked online days ahead of its reveal at the 2016 Geneva motor show. The C-HR was shown off in concept form at the 2015 Frankfurt motor show in September and Toyota Australia has high hopes for the pint-sized SUV's sales potential when it lands in Australia. "There's a very strong opportunity for the car," Toyota Australia spokesman Stephen Coughlan said when speaking to Drive last year. "When people come into the Toyota dealerships they certainly ask for a small SUV and the RAV4 is playing that role to some extent but we would certainly benefit from having something like this," he said. The production version of the C-HR keeps many of the funky design cues shown off in the concept in an attempt to appeal to younger buyers. It also shares its front end with many of the new generation of Toyota's especially the RAV4. While most details are being held back until its official launch, the concept will debut in Geneva as a hybrid. However, the production C-HR is expected to be offered with more traditional engine combinations. The C-HR will also be built on the brand's new Toyota New Global Architecture platform that is shares with the new Prius. I went for aat thethis weekend. It was a perfect quick out-of-town weekend getaway until it ended badly at the Mactan-Cebu Airport because of the incompetent staff and crew of What we did on our quick weekend getaway tour in Cebu: Day 1 (Saturday) was spent at a Day Tour at Plantation Bay in Lapu Lapu City Cebu Day 2 (Sunday) was spent at a Cebu City tour where we visited the famous historical places in Cebu which includes the Magellans Cross, Basilica Minor De Sto. Nino, Lapu-Lapu Monument, Fort San Pedro, the Cebu Taoist Temple, the Taboan Market (where we shopped for dried fish goods), Ayala Center Cebu and survived the Sky Walk Adventure! Where we stayed in Cebu? Night 1 (Friday) was spent at Roseate Pension House Night 2 (Saturday) was spent at Crown Regency Hotel Cebu City Night 3 (Sunday) was spent at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport How much did we spent for the Weekend Tour in Cebu? Transportation Our round trip airfare ticket Manila to Cebu and Cebu to Manila is Php2,155 nett per person. We got it from a seat sale Air Philippine Express offered. We spent Php365.00 for the taxi fare from the airport to Roseate Pension House located at the Urgelio St. Cebu City. Another Php600.00 to go to Plantation Bay which is about an hour away from Cebu City. We spent Php2,200 for the Day 2 Cebu City Tour including drop-off to airport. Lodging We spent Php1,680 for our 8 hour stay at Roseate Pension House since we arrived at pass midnight and checked out at 8AM. Personally, this pension house did not impressed me contrary to the great review I read from a blogger friend. Aside from being strategically located at the heart of Cebu City there was nothing outstanding to it. We got the Family Room with a view but unfortunately construction was on-going and we could have a nice view of the landscape because the building was obstructing the view already plus the construction workers are staring. Their aircon was noisy. They dont have free toiletries (it is usually a standard service inclusion even in motels, apartelles and pension houses). They served coffee (or should I say hot water) in a glass because they apparently ran out of cups. We had a complementary stay in Crown Regency Hotel Cebu City so we saved on that one. The hotel room was nice complete with bath tub, hair dryer, and free internet connection. The lobby was too dark. Most of the guest were Koreans. Staying overnight at the Mactan-Cebu International Airport cost us sore throat, sore back and headache. Tour Proper For the Day Tour at Plantation Bay we spent Php2,000 nett per person with 50% discount for children age 12 below. The Day Tour at Plantation Bay includes free use of all facilities and lunch. (will post more about this adventure!) The visit at the Cebu Taoist Temple, Magellans Cross, Basilica Minor De Sto. Nino, Lapu-Lapu Monument is free. A visit at the Fort San Pedro is at Pho30.00 for adult and Php20.00 for child. (Will post more about the Cebu City Tour) The trip to the Taboan Market cost about Php500.00 total where we got different kinds of danggit (dried fish) variants and a Cebu Longganisa. The Sky Walk Extreme Adventure which is a 15 minute walk on top of the 38th floor of Crown Regency Hotel in Cebu City is at Php400.00. (Details about the Sky Walk Extreme Adventure here) We spent Php365.00 for a kilo of CNT Lechon. Tips On How To Have An Awesome Weekend Getaway Tour In Cebu Dr. Joseph V. Mure Dr. Nicholas Varallo Check out East Niagara Post videos on YouTube, Vine and Periscope. Eastern Niagara Hospital (ENH) has been approved by the American Osteopathic Association to establish a Family Medicine Residency Program.Sponsored by the Lake Erie Consortium for Osteopathic Medical Training (LECOMT), the hospital will serve as a site for residents in the Family Medicine Program. Residents will complete rotations through numerous specialties, while being mentored by members of the hospitals medical staff who have agreed to serve as faculty.Joseph V. Mure, MD will serve as director of the program. Dr. Mure has an extensive background in the field of family medicine and education. A graduate of the University at Buffalo School of Medicine, Dr. Mure recently served as the vice chair of clinical services and assistant professor for the Department of Family Medicine at the University at Buffalo, as well as the family medicine medical director for UBMD.Dr. Mure is a diplomat of the American Board of Family Medicine. He has been the recipient of several awards and commendations, including being selected as one of Business Firsts Healthcare 50 Award Winners in 2014.I am excited to be the program director for the new family medicine residency," Dr. Mure said. "This will be a first for the hospital and we appreciate the support of the medical staff. This program will provide us with the opportunity to offer a rich educational experience, where residents will be able to follow their patients throughout all aspects of their care; through testing, consults, inpatient and outpatient. My main goal will be to recruit, train and retain primary care physicians for Western New York.Nicholas Varallo, a 35-year member of the Eastern Niagara Hospital medical staff, has agreed to serve as the programs administrative director of medical education. Dr. Varallo has a private practice in the Lockport community, specializing in family medicine. He also serves as a physician in the ENH Emergency Department. Dr. Varallo has held numerous medical leadership positions at the hospital, and currently is the chief of family medicine. He is Board Certified by the American Board of Family Physicians.Dr. Varallo added, I am looking forward to serving in this capacity as we start a new chapter in the Hospitals history. Im also grateful to my colleagues who have agreed to assist with me in this capacity. Their commitment and willingness to share their expertise will go a long way as the residents train for their own independent practices in medicine.Residents are currently being selected for the program start in July of 2016. Apple will begin selling new models of its iPad tablets and iPhones in mid-March, according to a report published last week in 9to5Mac. It will debut a 4-inch iPhone, called the iPhone 5se, as well as a new iPad Air at a March 15 event, followed by a retail and online sales launch three days later, said the report, which cited unnamed sources. Apple is not expected to offer its usual preorder sales event, but that decision is subject to change. The new tablet, called the iPad Air 3, reportedly will include a new Smart Connector and support for various Apple accessories, most importantly an updated smart keyboard and Apple Pencil. The body of the new phone reportedly will be similar to that of the iPhone 5s, which was released in 2013, and the device will include new A9 and M9 processors, an NFC chip that will allow the phone to use the Apple Pay mobile checkout technology, the same camera as the iPhone 6 support for always-on Siri activation, plus the ability to take Live Photos. What else will be in the new iPhone and iPad? Will it contain WiFi or the faster LiFi or some permutation thereof that doubles the range of connectivity while using less power? Theres always a surprise feature or so in any Apple device, said Susan Schreiner, an analyst atC4 Trends. Appeal to Mass Market Apple may be trying to appeal to a subset of customers who want to buy an Apple product but cannot afford to pay for it at current price points, according to Kevin Krewell, principal analyst atTirias Research. The new small iPhone to replace the iPhone 5s makes a lot of sense. There is a group of people who like the smaller form factor and others who want an iPhone, but can only afford it at a lower price. This new iPhone allows Apple to upgrade the iPhone 5s to the latest chip technology, while maintaining 5s pricing, he told the E-Commerce Times. The rumored iPhone fills a sweet spot that Apple missed when it introduced the iPhone 6 in terms of size. While there was a pent-up demand for a larger screen smartphone, there still is a huge population that prefers the convenience of the smaller screen to a larger screen, Schreiner told the E-Commerce Times. These consumers didnt run out and buy the iPhone 6 just because it was the latest and greatest from Apple. How many people still held on to their iPhone 5s because of this? she asked. Its unusual for Apple to release a new phone midcycle, Krewell noted, but the move may be designed to boost sales in China, which is a key market for the companys international business. There are lots of rumors about what Apple will introduce next and when. March 18 or thereabouts sounds about right because it will be at the end of Q1, which Apple anticipates to be slow due to a range of factors, including currency and geopolitical shifts and turmoil, said Schreiner. Softening Sales The report comes at a time when Apple isstruggling to make a market for some of its core product upgrades, particularly the iPhone and iPad, which have seen growth curves start to soften. Apple needs to shake things up a bit, said analystJeff Kagan. Their rapid growth wave seems to be starting to slow, he told the E-Commerce Times. Growth in the installed base of iPhones has slowed from previous years, according to newly released data fromConsumer Intelligence Research Partners. The installed base grew 11 percent in the December 2015 quarter, compared with 23 percent in the December 2014 quarter. Apple had some of its greatest success with the iPhone 6 and 6s models, which had larger form factors, said CIRP co-founder Michael Levin. New methods of financing phones have made the more expensive models more affordable to users. So were not sure what Apple wants to accomplish with the reported smaller phone, at least in the U.S., he told the E-Commerce Times, noting that the 5s seems to meet the needs of U.S. customers looking for a less-expensive handset. The new phone might have more to do with meeting the needs of non-U.S. customers, Levin said, who also dont have access to the same phone financing programs as U.S. customers. Microsoft last week announced measures to improve security management and transparency for Azure cloud services and Office 365. The features, which come from technology Microsoft acquired last year when it purchased Adallom, will bolster security in cloud apps such as Office 365, Box, Salesforce, ServiceNow and Ariba. A security app for Office 365 called Microsoft Cloud App Security will provide security management and reporting features that will give customers better visibility, control and security for data hosted in cloud apps, the company said. The reinforcements are the first of a series of planned measures. The goal is to integrate broad measures rather than make isolated patches. We are talking to enterprise customers about evolving their security posture from a simple protect-recovery model to a more holistic posture that includes protect, detect and respond capabilities, Microsoft spokesperson Reed Turner said. The company is investing in three key areas: secure platform, intelligent security graph and working with partners, he told the E-Commerce Times. Planned Platform Enterprises need an agile platform that will allow them to appropriately secure their identities, devices, applications, data and infrastructure wherever it is located in the cloud, on-premises or both, the company said. That requires a secure platform across all endpoints, from simple sensors to complex infrastructure inside data centers. Microsoft has build an intelligent security graph that can learn from one area and apply that knowledge across the platform. Behavioral approaches to threat detection can rapidly recognize and respond to new threats, Turner said. The platform is bolstered by a team effort with other technology partners that have particular strengths and innovative approaches. Microsofts approach has evolved to reflect the realities of our mobile-first, cloud-first world, said Turner. Security Plan Highlights Key features of the security upgrade include the following: Azure Security Center received additional security management and reporting options to allow customers to set different policies for different types of workloads. A new Power BI Dashboard allows customers to better visualize, analyze and filter security alerts from any of their systems and devices to discover possible attack patterns and trends. The Microsoft Operations Management Suite has a new dashboard to better show details about network activity, authentication events, malware incidents and system updates across customer data centers. The Azure Security Center can collect crash events from Azure-hosted virtual machines, analyze them, and alert customers of potential compromises. Azure Active Directory Identity Protection is a new feature to be previewed next week to detect suspicious end user activities by using Microsofts data on brute force attacks, leaked credentials, authentications from unfamiliar locations and known infected devices. These enhancements, which cover both core security and content-level controls, will do well to reassure customers about their data in Microsofts cloud, said Scott Petry, CEO ofAuthentic8. Browser Blunders Regardless of the cloud security enhancements, the Web browser will remain a concern. Bad guys favorite attack surface is not the cloud vendors infrastructure it is the browser, Petry told the E-Commerce Times. Users who access cloud-based resources use a browser that is fundamentally insecure and unmanageable. The company data may be safe within the Azure/365 environment, but when a user connects to other non-Microsoft Web services or accesses the data from home devices, these security measures can fall short and data can be exposed, he said. To mitigate that issue, Petry urged the use of a policy-controlled virtual browser. By running a virtual browser in a secure, cloud-based container, no Web code ever reaches the client device. With the browser running centrally, it can be configured to enable or restrict key functions like secure login, data access and data transfer, he noted. Secure Borders Consumers of Azure and Office 365 will gain deeper visibility into user activity and behavior. Security professionals will have the capability to see who is accessing what and what changes are made, said George Gerchow, faculty member at theInstitute for Applied Network Security. This is very hard to do on-premises. I would argue that this functionality is easier to do off-premises by leveraging APIs, he told the E-Commerce Times. In terms of security ratings, Azure is clearly the second best cloud provider on the planet behind Amazon Web Services, he said, crediting Microsofts attestation and certifications. Critical Concerns Continue Surveys once identified security as the top concern limiting cloud adoption, but now there is increasing recognition in the market that cloud providers are at least as secure as the typical corporate data center, according to Andrew Atkinson, senior director of product marketing atCloud Cruiser. Security now often does not even break the top three. The types of cloud services being used by enterprises are changing, going from pretty benign test and dev to now running production applications in public cloud environments, he told the E-Commerce Times. The growing list of services being offering is a testament to customers increased comfort with cloud services, Atkinson said. After all, we tend to keep our money in banks, rather than under our mattresses, because we know that their facilities vaults and capabilities guards, procedures reflect more resources than we can dedicate to the task and more hard-won knowledge than we would care to accumulate, he said. Hedging Success The best news to come out of Microsofts cloud security announcements is the recognition that the company must work with others in the industry to better understand the current and future threats facing its systems, noted John Eustice, an attorney atMiller & Chevalier. No single corporation, even one as large as Microsoft, can obtain sufficient intelligence on cybersecurity threats to identify larger trends and accurately assess risk, he told the E-Commerce Times. By pooling resources with similar providers and acquiring security-focused companies like Adallom, Microsoft is making an effort to provide better and broader security information to its clients. Even with better information, however, clients will need to maintain proper security measures for their own employees using Microsofts cloud-based services, Eustice added. The keys to turning its efforts into a competitive advantage over other cloud computing service providers are marketing, which Microsoft does quite well, and transparency in contracting, where Microsoft sometimes struggles, he maintained. When a company contracts with Microsoft for cloud services, that company will need to understand both the benefits of increased security and the process through which it can work with Microsoft to minimize the risk of a cyberincident, Eustice concluded. Without clarity in the contract, a companys incident response plan will be unlikely to take advantage of the increased security measures offered by Microsoft. 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Non-believers and non-religious people say they are being targeted by "hate campaigns" in countries around the world, as a distinct minority group, a new report has found. The report claims that the "hate speech" against atheists does not come exclusively from reactionary or radical religious leaders, but increasingly from political leaders, including heads of State. The report is published on December 10 by the International Humanist and Ethical Union (IHEU), the Freedom of Thought Report. It states: "In 2014, in addition to laws such as those targeting "apostasy" and "blasphemy", we have seen a marked increase in specific targeting of "atheists" and "humanism." In countries, such as Russia, where communist ideology has been replaced by Orthodox Christianity which dominated before the 1917 Bolshevik revolution, any public expression of atheist views can be equated with blasphemy and criminalized, Reuters news agency reported. Cases cited in the report include the Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak, who this year labelled "humanism and secularism as well as liberalism" as "deviant" and a threat to Islam and the State itself. In a speech the report said Razak also denied that Malaysians had any right to "apostasy" [leaving Islam]. Saudi Arabia is criticized for a new law equating "atheism" with "terrorism." The report noted that the first article of the Saudi kingdom's new terror regulations ban, "Calling for atheist thought in any form, or calling into question the fundamentals of the Islamic religion." The report said that "even the supposedly secular regime of Egypt's president Sisi was found to target atheists directly, through what it calls "an organized backlash against young atheists." It said that from June, Nuamat Sati of Egypr's Ministry of Youth announced a campaign to spread awareness of "the dangers of atheism" and why it is "a threat to society." This was done so that young atheists in particular, who are increasingly vocal on social media will be given "a chance to reconsider their decisions and go back to their religion." The Thought Report stated that in the past few months, Egyptian authorities have detained young atheists who appeared on TV media and Youtube videos talking about their right to express atheist views. It further said that "in a worrying and unusual development in November, Christian churches actually 'joined forces' with Egypt's Al-Azhar in another anti-atheism campaign, saying that "Society should resist this phenomenon [of atheism]." The Freedom of Thought Report each year surveys and rates every country in the world for anti-atheist persecution. It said almost all countries discriminate against the non-religious, in some cases through religious privilege or legal exemptions, with the worst countries taking children from atheist parents, or with laws mandating death sentences for "apostates" (in 13 Islamic states). The 2014 edition of the report notes: "This year will be marked by a surge in this phenomenon of State officials and political leaders agitating specifically against non-religious people, just because they have no religious beliefs, in terms that would normally be associated with hate speech or social persecution against ethnic or religious minorities." (REUTERS/File photo)People gather at the site of suicide blasts in Baghdad's Sadr City. As the United States continues to be pressured by activists and religious groups regarding the unstoppable killings recently in Iraq and Syria, the Islamic State has reportedly claimed responsibility of two suicide bombings in Baghdad that killed civilians and security forces alike and left many others wounded. According to an update by Reuters, 24 people are said to have been killed, while 60 others were wounded in Sadr City as authorities continue to further determine how many casualties there have been. In Abu Ghraib, the Islamic State also hurled its anger toward the people as Telegraph reports that there were at least 12 government and security forces killed during the assaults. The outlet also says the militants hid themselves in a grain silo and a cemetery before launching suicide bomb and gun attacks on people in the western suburbs of Abu Ghraib. While no immediate claims of responsibility were made, it was instantly believed that ISIS forces were behind the attacks. The terrorists reportedly launched an all-out assault on civilians. Three suicide bombers went out and blasted themselves, while other militants fired on security forces trying to respond to the bombed area, which has since been closed off from the public. According to CNBC News, ISIS released a statement online that took the attention of people and has since been believed to be the terror group's indirect message that it was responsible for the recent attacks. "Our swords will not cease to cut off the heads of the rejectionist polytheists, wherever they are," the statement reportedly reads. The group has been known to attack Shi'ite communities over the past week, and though authorities have been able to push back the terrorists, fear of additional attacks has been instilled in the people after Sunday's attacks. In case the extremists are planning another attack on the area, a local curfew has been imposed, but in the Sunni town of Mahmoudiya, a bomb explosion killed three people and wounded 10 others. The simultaneous attacks are only some of the recent and most shocking attacks that Baghdad has received over the past couple of months. (Rick Riordan / Percy Jackson and The Olympians)The book version of "Percy Jackson: The Titan's Curse" It's been three years since the "Percy Jackson: Sea of Monsters" was released in theaters and fans of Percy are still hoping that the third installation will push through. "Percy Jackson" is a movie series based on author Rick Riordan's best-selling novel series with the same title. There are currently 10 books in the series, five of which are supplementary for the readers to get to know the world of "Percy Jackson and The Olympians" more. The first two books have already been made into movies and have been considered to be commercially successful. The story revolves around the son of Greek god Poseidon with a mortal named Sally Jackson. Percy has always felt like a misfit until his true identity was revealed to him. To help him with his inborn powers and to teach him the ways of a half-god and half-human, he joins others like him in Camp Half-Blood. In his journey to discovering himself, he meets friends and foes along the way. In "Percy Jackson: The Lightning Thief," Percy is accused by Zeus to have stolen his lightning bolt. This is the series where he first gets acquainted with the Olympians and also when he meets his real father for this first time. In "Percy Jackson: The Sea of Monsters," Thalia's tree was poisoned which resulted in endangering Camp Half-Blood. Thalia is one of Zeus' daughters who died protecting others in the camp when Percy's friends were younger. She was made into a tree that served as the camp's magical protection. In order to revive the tree and protect the camp, Percy and friends set out on an adventure to retrieve the mythical golden fleece. In the end, the golden fleece did not just restore the barrier but has resurrected Thalia as well. "Percy Jackson: Titan's Curse" Jackson and friends face the wrath of Kronos whom they thought has died in the previous book. They also need to face another ancient monster who is prophesized to bring destruction to Olympus. They set out to look for Artemis who is the only one who knows how to beat the monster. There is no official statement yet regarding the third sequel but fans continue to hope that the story they loved reading about would hit the big screen soon. (Photo: UN Photo / Eskinder Debebe)UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, briefs the Security Council. There is increasing talk in the world today of departures from institutions and laws which States built to codify their behavior, the U.N. human rights chief has said, warning "hate speech" precedes violence. U.N. High Commissioner for Human Rights, Zeid Ra'ad Al Hussein, opened the 31st session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Feb. 29. "When leaders express, or ignite, waves of hate speech, as we have seen in recent months hate speech against migrants, and specific ethnic and religious groups they are setting off shock-waves, whose impact will lead to violence," warned Zeid. The speech had elements that could have been aimed at the UK, which is debating whether or not to leave the European Union and the United States which has presidential hopeful Donald Trump who wants to raise walls to keep out migrants from Mexico as well as Muslims. The U.N. high commissioner asserted that, "Gross violations of international human rights law - which clearly will lead to disastrous outcomes are being greeted with indifference," that undermine the U.N. Charter to which virtually every nation subscribes. "More and more States appear to believe that the legal architecture of the international system is a menu from which they can pick and choose - trashing what appears to be inconvenient in the short term." Zeid noted that human rights violations are like a signal, the sharp zig-zag lines of a seismograph flashing out warnings of a coming earthquake. "Today, these jagged red lines are shuddering faster and higher. They signal increasing, and severe, violations of fundamental rights and principles. "These shocks are being generated by poor decisions, unprincipled and often criminal actions, and narrow, short-term, over-simplified approaches to complex questions," he said. The high commissioner said such outcomes are crushing the hopes and lives of countless people. "This resurgent broad-based malice, irresponsibility and sometimes eye-watering stupidity, altogether acting like steam at high pressure being fed into the closed chamber of world events." 'NARROW NATIONALISM' Zeid warned that unless it is released gradually and soon with wiser policy-making in the interests of all humans instead of the narrowest, purely national, or ideological, agenda, its release "when it comes, will be as a colossus of violence and death." He noted that the haphazard undoing of a system of law and values that States themselves instituted to foil global threats "is deeply alarming." Zeid said, "Many leaders are pandering to a simplistic nationalism, which mirrors the simplified and destructive 'us' versus 'them' mind-set of the extremists, and fans a rising wind of prejudice and fear. "This bid to find unilateral quick fixes for issues that have broad roots is not only unprincipled, it is illusory and it contributes to great suffering and escalating disarray." The U.N. rights chief also noted that while civilians have to endure frightful attacks it is not the only armed conflict where this is happening. "Multiple medical facilities, religious sites and schools have been repeatedly attacked and bombed in Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, South Sudan, and Yemen. "The damage done by these violations - in bloodshed, and needless suffering and deaths from treatable illnesses and wounds - is dreadful. I add my voice to that of the distinguished President of Medecins Sans Frontieres: the normalization of such attacks is intolerable." (Reuters/Michael Dalder)U.S. Foreign Secretary John Kerry and Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov (L) in Munich, Germany, February 11, 2016 With Saudi Arabia expressing their plans to attack Syria, fears persist that World War 3 might happen. In a CTV News report on Thursday, a top military official in the Saudi military said that the Saudi kingdom is primed to send its troops to the Syrian region to stop the Islamic forces. Robert Parry confirmed in his report, published by the Consortium News, that the United States, Turkey, and Saudi are preparing to invade the Russian and Iran-backed Syria. If this happens, then Russia will surely stand in the way. It's not clear, though, if U.S. Pres. Barack Obama has prevented Turkey and Saudi Arabia from launching an attack against Syria. However, Obama is reportedly willing to discuss what to do against Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), according to Bitbag. Parry further wrote in his column, "Source close to Russian President Vladimir Putin told me that the Russians have warned Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan that Moscow is prepared to use tactical nuclear weapons if necessary to save their troops in the face of a Turkish-Saudi onslaught." Meanwhile, a report on the Wall Street Journal says that the reason for Saudi attacking Syria is it wants to send a message to Syria and Iran, two countries that are already taking control of the area. Meanwhile, Express reports that Obama is thinking about a possibility of sending artillery to the South China Sea, where China is aggressively imposing a territorial claim. Observers say that an increased U.S. presence can further stir the tension in the already volatile region. It increases the anxiety that a possible clash between the U.S. and Chinese forces might take place. American troops have been conducting several military exercises in the area with Japan and some of its allies in a show of force against China. Furthermore, the Pentagon has given authorization to conduct "freedom of navigation" exercises near Chinese military bases. Hollywood, California, USA, Feb 29 (EFE).- A documentary by Pakistani filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy about the scourge of honor killings in the South Asian nation has won an Oscar award for best short documentary in 2016, beating out four other nominees including one about a Liberian woman who collected bodies after the Ebola outbreak. The documentary, "A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness", highlights the plight of a 19-year-old girl who survived being shot in the face by her father and uncle and thrown into a river to die in Gujranwala, Pakistan's northern Punjab province, after being caught trying to elope with her boyfriend. Over 1,000 women in the conservative Islamic nation are murdered annually by male relatives for perceived immoral behavior, which can include the refusal to enter into an arranged marriage, flirtatious behavior, adultery, being raped or engaging in property inheritance squabbles. The director says she hopes the film will lead to change in society, reports Dawn newspaper. "The most hopeful thing about this film is that it started a national discourse in Pakistan about honor killings - something we desperately needed to have," said Obaid-Chinoy. It is the second Oscar nomination for Obaid-Chinoy, who in 2012 won the Oscar in the same category for her documentary "Saving Face", in which women scarred by acid attacks sought to reconstruct their faces through plastic surgery. Montevideo, Feb 29 (EFE).- Relatives of people who disappeared during Uruguay's 1973-1985 military dictatorship will stage a festival this week featuring carnival groups to keep alive the memory of victims and infuse new energy into their own efforts, festival organizers told EFE. This is an opportunity "to have a 'murga' festival, to get together and enjoy the bands and life, and to give our group new oxygen to keep marching on," Javier Tassino, a member of the Mothers and Relatives of Detainees/Disappeared, said. The show will bring together five bands, known as "murgas," and a group of comedians - both typical expressions of Uruguay's carnival - on Thursday to keep alive the memory of the almost 200 people whose whereabouts is still unknown, and to fund the search for information the group launched in mid-2015. Last year, the group called on Uruguayans who might have information about the disappeared to provide it, even if it was anonymously during confession at church or by any other means. The campaign, still open, received more than 500 tips leading to "about 10" detailed reports which, if confirmed, could shed light on what happened to Uruguayans detained or kidnapped in joint operations by the region's dictatorships in the 1970s and 1980s. In the 1970s, South American military regimes coordinated the cross-border detention, torture and summary execution of suspected leftists under "Operation Condor." The operation consisted of intelligence sharing between the dictatorships of the Southern Cone for the purpose of hunting down and exterminating leftists in Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay and Uruguay. Human rights groups estimate that "Operation Condor" resulted in the deaths of hundreds if not thousands of people in Latin America. Charlotte, North Carolina, Feb 29 (EFE).- The 55 immigration courts in the United States have handed down 10,142 deportation orders for Central American youngsters who came to this country unaccompanied by an adult since 2014. Data from the Justice Department's Executive Office for Immigration Review indicate that, between July 2014 and Jan. 26, 2016, 8,912 repatriation orders for minors from El Salvador, Honduras and Guatemala were issued in absentia. The aim of Immigration and Customs Enforcement since the beginning of the year has been to carry out those orders a quickly as possible and in that way send a message to Central American countries about the inevitable fate of those planning to enter the country illegally. "Since a month ago when ICE started rounding up youngsters in the streets, Hispanic neighborhoods have suffered constant anguish and terror," Byron Martinez of the civil rights organization United We Stand, based in Gaston County, North Carolina, said. In the last week of January, ICE agents began to arrest undocumented immigrants with a very specific profile: young Central Americans who arrived as minors but who are now over 18, according to the activists. "ICE is undoubtedly waiting for them to become adults in order to arrest them - that is the pattern of every one of the young people who have been captured in Charlotte," said Ana Miriam Carpio of the Salvadoran Union, which has been helping families affected by the apprehensions. "Our state has been a kind of laboratory for the way federal immigration agents in other states will deal with young Salvadorans, Hondurans and Guatemalans that come to this country unaccompanied," Martinez said. Jose Hernandez Paris, executive director of the Latin American Coalition in Charlotte, said that at a meeting with ICE at which they pleaded with agents not to arrest young people at school bus stops or on their way to class, the officials always referred to the youths as "adults" and refused to call them "students." "This city should not tolerate strategies that put minors in danger and isolate an entire community that has become an integral part of this city," Hernandez Paris said, adding that between 15 and 20 high school students in Charlotte are in the sights of ICE for deportation. Relacionados La UNED y Microsoft ofrecen 15 licencias gratuitas de Office 365 ProPlus a todos los miembros de la comunidad universitaria 'Joe Biden can have them': Mastriano vows to bus migrants to Delaware City/Town: Zurich Event Type: Other Location: Viewfinder Center If youre the proud owner of a Nikon D750 but dont feel like you fully understand your cameras capabilities, youll find this course interesting. At Viewfinder weve gotten to know the D750 very well over the past year. Our students photographed with it in Norway, brought it on safari in Africa, and used it to shoot a wide variety of sports, fashion and landscape subjects in our Advanced Study program. In this one-day course well explore the exciting capabilities of the Nikon D750. Join us to discover how this feature-rich camera can give you many creative advantages. https://viewfindercenter.com/offer/n...camera-course/ Re: moving to Liverpool Quote: ipoddle Also... according to this.. Liverpool really isn't such a bad 'crime spot' http://www.ukcrimestats.com/Postcode_Districts/ What surprised me was the reaction of my OH when I took him to Liverpool for the first time. He lived in Manchester when we first met and hated it, but he really likes Liverpool. He was due to start work in Zurich on 9th November, but delayed the start date so that we could attend our friends' wedding in Liverpool city centre, right by the Liver Building. The city centre has a really good vibe now. It's nothing like it was in the 70's and 80's. It was seriously bad then with a lot of poverty. My brother worked there for the last 25 years of his career and married a Scouse girl. Also have an ex whose still a friend who is London born and bred, but went to Uni in Liverpool and stayed for the next 10yrs. He loved the place and the people.What surprised me was the reaction of my OH when I took him to Liverpool for the first time. He lived in Manchester when we first met and hated it, but he really likes Liverpool. He was due to start work in Zurich on 9th November, but delayed the start date so that we could attend our friends' wedding in Liverpool city centre, right by the Liver Building. The city centre has a really good vibe now. Hello Forum. My wife is traveling to Saudi Arabia in less than a week (for an interview) and she needs to find an Abaja as soon as possible. None of the online resources listed above are active or can tell you how long for delivery. Does anyone know of a physical location to buy Islamic clothing anyplace in Zurich? Or in driving/train distance? We've called several mosques and Islamic centers but the answers just refer us to other mosques or centers. Its been an excercise in frustration and we're running out of time. All ideas/suggestions welcomed. Thank you everyone. Re: Looking to get my first dog/puppy. Help please As in the above posts, your first step is taking the SKN Theory course. This must be done before acquiring a dog, any reputable Swiss breeder will want to see that you have done the course. To find an SKN trainer in your area, see the database from the BLV: http://blv.bytix.com/plus/trainer/ The course should help you think about what type of dog will fit into your family, and whether or not you are the kind of family the type of dog you are interested in needs. As others have said, a jack russell and a labrador are very different sorts of dogs, with very different characters, temperaments, abilities - and needs. If you decided on a Jack Russell, which is on the Kleinwuchsig (small) list you will the only need the SKN Practical courses, use this same database to find a trainer. If you decide on a Labrador, which is a List 1 dog in canton ZH, you need to do the Welpen, Junghund, Erwachsene courses. The list of ZH List 1 trainers is here: http://www.veta.zh.ch/internet/gesun...11_nachOrt.pdf Note that certification to teach the Welpen course is separate from the Junghund/Erwaschne courses. The ZH List 1 courses have to be taken at the appropriate age for the dog. The Welpen course must be done when your puppy is between 8 and 16 weeks old; given the tight time frame and the availability of courses at any one time you really need to have the Welpen course booked in advance of your getting the pup . (A reputable List 1 breeder will also likely ask about this.) If you are looking to get a dog from a Swiss breeder, you need to contact the breed club of the SKG. Each breed/club will have a Zuchtwart, this is the person who keeps tabs of which breeders currently have a litter, or are planning litters in the future. The Zuchtwart is usually your first contact person. Be aware that a good breeder usually has waiting lists, so start your search early. (But after you have taken the SKN Theory course.) Also be aware that a good breeder looks for the best person possible to entrust his/her pups to. That means it isn't quite as simple as pulling out your wallet and buying a dog. You usually need to get to know the breeder, go through an assessment or interview, meet the breeder and dogs, sometimes before a litter is planned. Of course you should be doing the same due diligence on the breeder. For Labradors the club is the Retriever Club: http://www.retriever.ch For Jack Russells the club is the Russel Terrier Club: http://www.russellterrierclub.ch If you decide to look abroad, be aware of the import regulations. A handy online tool is here: http://blv.bytix.com/plus/dbr/default.aspx?lang=de --- And of course, because rescue is my thing - if you would consider a rescue dog, there are often jack russels looking for homes. Labradors come in less frequently, but I've seen several in rescue in Switzerland over the years. The database of homeless animals, which covers all of Switzerland, is here: https://www.tierdatenbank.ch/de/tiere.html --- And a last word: As you are looking for your pup, please be aware of the dark side of the pet dog trade. Switzerland is a target for battery farmed pups, bred in abusive conditions, the pups are often sick, genetically and temperamentally unsound, the 'leftover' mothers and pups are often killed in horrific ways. The Hundemafia is also very active in Switzerland, illegal dog smuggling is sadly all too common. A pup brought in illegally without proper vacs can be seized and euthanized. Do not support either of these vile trades. Battery farmers and smugglers often pose as 'good' breeders or rescuers, or as individuals in an unexpected family situation. They put up websites that push all the buttons, say the right things at first. But you have to dig deeper. Research any breeder you are considering. Visit several times, ask question, not only about the dogs but also the puppy socialization program. Meet the dogs, speak to the breeder's veterinarian. In short, do your due diligence. As the BLV says, 'Augen Auf beim Hundekauf'. --- Wishing you and your future furry friend all the best. Back with some links:As in the above posts, your first step is taking the SKN Theory course. This must be done before acquiring a dog, any reputable Swiss breeder will want to see that you have done the course. To find an SKN trainer in your area, see the database from the BLV:The course should help you think about what type of dog will fit into your family, and whether or not you are the kind of family the type of dog you are interested in needs. As others have said, a jack russell and a labrador are very different sorts of dogs, with very different characters, temperaments, abilities - and needs.If you decided on a Jack Russell, which is on the Kleinwuchsig (small) list you will the only need the SKN Practical courses, use this same database to find a trainer.If you decide on a Labrador, which is a List 1 dog in canton ZH, you need to do the Welpen, Junghund, Erwachsene courses. The list of ZH List 1 trainers is here:Note that certification to teach the Welpen course is separate from the Junghund/Erwaschne courses.The ZH List 1 courses have to be taken at the appropriate age for the dog. The Welpen course must be done when your puppy is between 8 and 16 weeks old; given the tight time frame and the availability of courses at any one time. (A reputable List 1 breeder will also likely ask about this.)If you are looking to get a dog from a Swiss breeder, you need to contact the breed club of the SKG. Each breed/club will have a Zuchtwart, this is the person who keeps tabs of which breeders currently have a litter, or are planning litters in the future. The Zuchtwart is usually your first contact person. Be aware that a good breeder usually has waiting lists, so start your search early. (But after you have taken the SKN Theory course.)Also be aware that a good breeder looks for the best person possible to entrust his/her pups to. That means it isn't quite as simple as pulling out your wallet and buying a dog. You usually need to get to know the breeder, go through an assessment or interview, meet the breeder and dogs, sometimes before a litter is planned. Of course you should be doing the same due diligence on the breeder.For Labradors the club is the Retriever Club:For Jack Russells the club is the Russel Terrier Club:If you decide to look abroad, be aware of the import regulations. A handy online tool is here:---And of course, because rescue is my thing - if you would consider a rescue dog, there are often jack russels looking for homes. Labradors come in less frequently, but I've seen several in rescue in Switzerland over the years.The database of homeless animals, which covers all of Switzerland, is here:---And a last word:As you are looking for your pup, please be aware of the dark side of the pet dog trade. Switzerland is a target for battery farmed pups, bred in abusive conditions, the pups are often sick, genetically and temperamentally unsound, the 'leftover' mothers and pups are often killed in horrific ways. The Hundemafia is also very active in Switzerland, illegal dog smuggling is sadly all too common. A pup brought in illegally without proper vacs can be seized and euthanized. Do not support either of these vile trades.Battery farmers and smugglers often pose as 'good' breeders or rescuers, or as individuals in an unexpected family situation. They put up websites that push all the buttons, say the right things at first. But you have to dig deeper. Research any breeder you are considering. Visit several times, ask question, not only about the dogs but also the puppy socialization program. Meet the dogs, speak to the breeder's veterinarian. In short, do your due diligence. As the BLV says, 'Augen Auf beim Hundekauf'.---Wishing you and your future furry friend all the best. British hospitals in the red send strong warning to the U.S. By Rachel Alexander Britain has "free" health care, which means it is run by the government and funded by taxpayers. Those on the left in the U.S. want to move to this model, which is often referred to as universal healthcare or single-payer since the government handles all the financing. If something sounds too good to be true, it probably is. If health care doesn't cost anything, people are going to use more of it. They're not going to think prudently about which services they really need because they don't feel the immediate cost. Consequently, 131 out of the 138 hospital trusts in Britain's National Health System (NHS) are now in debt. The deficit has nearly tripled in size over the past year, and may reach 2.9 billion. "These figures are beyond dire," declared Adam Roberts, a representative of the Health Foundation think tank. The think tank has also revealed that efficiency improvements have remained stagnant. With no competition (other than private health care which costs money), there is little incentive to make improvements. David Prior, former head of the Care and Quality Commission (CQC) non-departmental public body, admits there is no real market in British health care, and says this especially hurts people in rural areas who have access to only one hospital regardless of quality. He said 20 percent of hospitals have serious problems dating back several years, and another 20 percent are only performing so-so. Patients have long waits to see specialists, and consequently British mortality rates are higher than in the U.S. The heart disease mortality rate is 36 percent higher than that in the U.S., and cancer survival rates are higher for Americans for all major cancer types. The breast cancer mortality rate is 88 percent higher in the UK. What no one will suggest is that maybe government-run health care isn't working. Instead, according to an anonymous whistleblower who is the finance director at an NHS foundation trust, national regulators are pressuring the hospitals to cook their books. He told the House of Commons Public Accounts Committee how an accountant masked a deficit of 10 million in 2008, in order to show a surplus of 1 million. The accountant was prosecuted and sent to prison. The whistleblower says the deficit targets set for the hospitals are not realistic and cannot be achieved. One out of three NHS providers are refusing to accept the deficit targets. Another whistleblower, Dr. Raj Mattu, said because of forced cuts at his hospital two patients died. He told The Daily Mail that nothing was being done about it and everything was being swept under the rug, "Hospital chief executive David Loughton was oiling the machine for his government paymasters." Similarly, whistleblower Dr. Chris Day revealed staff shortages and psychologist Narinder Kapur reported a hospital for using unqualified staff in the neurosciences clinic. Recent research indicates an alarming one out of 10 patients suffers harm in the NHS system. Yet instead of fixing the problems, the whistleblowers report being retaliated against by the hospitals. They say trumped-up complaints are brought against them, forcing them to face fitness-to-practice (FTP) hearings in front of the General Medical Council. These hearings are so traumatic that "over 100 doctors facing such hearings have committed suicide between 2005 and 2013." None of the sacked whistleblowers have reportedly been able to find comparable reemployment. The whistleblowers tellingly say the punishments make them feel like they are living behind the Iron Curtain. Socialized healthcare is a big step toward a totalitarian government. If Bernie Sanders is elected president, he will try to implement a similar system here. Yet British socialized health care is not working well and continues to deteriorate. It would be naive to ignore this growing catastrophe and continue to press for a similar system in the U.S. Rachel Alexander and her brother Andrew are co-Editors of Intellectual Conservative. She has been published in the American Spectator, Townhall.com, Fox News, NewsMax, Accuracy in Media, The Americano, ParcBench, and other publications. Home Earthquakes of the Middle East By Dr. Jacques Neriah Almost five years after the outburst of the so-called Arab Spring, the Middle East is still experiencing tectonic and dramatic changes that are shaping its landscape into unexpected realities. The more the Middle East is engulfed in crisis the more it is transforming into a different political layout far beyond anything in its history. As an allegory, one could imagine the Middle East as boiling magma erupting from the depths of the earth, transforming in its burning path each and every meter it passes before it stabilizes into a new landscape after it has destroyed everything in its way. Those five years have witnessed every unimaginable drama that no analyst could have ever dreamt about: Arabs fighting Arabs; Sunni Arabs fighting Iran and Iranian-backed troops and political forces; Sunnis fighting against Shiites; disintegration of nation-states; shifting alliances with the super powers; Western and Russian military intervention; Arab (Saudi Arabia, Qatar), Turkish, and Western intervention in local conflicts; the dominance of Russia and the slow shrinking of U.S. influence; Arab military intervention to assist failing fellow states unsuccessful in quelling internal rebellions; the elimination and persecution of Muslim sects; the disappearance of Christian communities; almost war between Russia and Turkey; and the rise of political Islam camouflaged as Jihadism on the ruins of former nation-states such as Syria and Iraq. Extreme fundamentalism together with the brutal and outrageous reality of the civil wars raging in Iraq, Syria, Yemen, Libya and Lebanon have produced hundreds of thousands of victims, phantom cities, millions displaced and hundreds of thousands of refugees in foreign lands. Where Do We Stand Today? Syria and the Assad regime. By late September 2015, Bashar Assad was losing the war against the rebels assisted in their fight by the Saudi-Qatari Turkish-Western coalition. The rebels were on the outskirts of Assad hinterland in Latakia after defeating his forces in the northern part of the country facing Turkey. Assad was also losing the Golan to the Free Syrian Army and to the storming units of the jihadists. Even in Damascus it seemed that the suffocating siege carried out by the rebels was having a serious impact on Assads grip on his capital. Then, as if by magic, Russia engaged its forces to defend the crumbling Alawite regime. Since the beginning of the Russian military intervention in late September, the Assad regime together with his strategic allies (Afghani forces brought by Iran, Hizbullah and Iranian Revolutionary Guard forces) have succeeded not only to stabilize the regime but to regain lost the strategic positions in the Latakia province lost in 2012 which secured the borders with Turkey. The next targets appear to be the re-capture of the whole city of Aleppo, thus assuring the Assad regime a large enough lebensraum to enable Assad to negotiate from a strong position rather than as a defeated regime. The forces of the regime flanked by pro-Iranian proxies (Afghanis and Uzbeks) have also recaptured Sheikh Meskin, a strategic stronghold near Daraa in the south thus recovering almost the majority of the ground lost in the Golan. In greater Damascus, Assads forces have regained control of some of the suburbs which fell to the hands of the rebels. However, even with this reverse of fortune, the Assad regime controls barely 30 to 40 percent of the previous Syrian Republic. Assad is at the mercy of his saviors, and his regime is totally dependent on the decision-makers in Moscow and Teheran. His freedom to maneuver is almost nonexistent. Whatever scenario unfolds, Syria will not return to be the former spearhead of Arabism in the Middle East. Moscows intervention in Syria and its strained relations with Turkey following Turkeys downing of a Russian warplane which purportedly trespassed over the Turkish border have probably headed off a Turkish military incursion into Syria. Moscow and Teheran have become the guarantors of Syrias Alawite regime. It remains to be seen what sort of partnership will emerge between the two allies when they will have to confront one another on different political agendas. The Russian military intervention has spared Lebanon another civil war. Indeed, the Assad regimes success (assisted by Russian air raids and Hizbullah fighters) in blocking the jihadists from reaching the Mediterranean Sea through the port of Tripoli has defused a fragile situation that could have developed into an all-out war between Sunnites and Shiites in Lebanon. But this has not solved the constitutional and political deadlock in Lebanon. Lebanon is without a president since 2014; the whole political body is paralyzed and no compromise appears on the horizon. Hizbullah, blocking the issue of presidential elections by preventing the meeting of a quorum in parliament, has chosen a candidate (Michel Aoun) and is adamantly opposed to any alternative. The opponents rallied around the former Sunni Prime Minister Saad Hariri and Christian Maronite candidate Suleiman Frangieh, Jr. and have also decided not to compromise. In the meantime the country is run by a caretaker government which could in fact last for a long time if there is no dramatic change in the equation of forces. Iraq today is struggling in its quest for self-identity. A year and a half after the Islamic State (IS) stormed Mosul and almost cut Iraq in half, Iraq is trying to recover and retake territory lost to Abu Bakr el Baghdadi, the self-proclaimed Caliph and leader of the Islamic State. With the help of the United States, Russia, and Iran, Iraq has recaptured almost in their entirety two key cities lost a year earlier to the IS: Tikrit and Ramadi. However, Iraq finds itself partly invaded by Turkish forces in the north and de facto partitioned between an autonomous Kurdish Government in the north, a Sunni territorial entity led by the IS whose capital is in Rakka, Syria, and a Shiite state which extends north of Baghdad until the borders with Kuwait, Iran and Saudi Arabia in the south. At this point, Iraqi leaders are worried about the possible devastation Iraq would endure by the destruction of the Mosul Dam (formerly known as Saddam Husseins Dam) if it is not properly maintained. This problematic dam was built on soluble gypsum, and the U.S. Corps of Engineers warned already in the first years of the American presence in Iraq that the dam the most dangerous dam in the world could be a source of danger if it is not constantly reinforced with grout injections. Another scheme under discussion is the construction of a colossal wall to surround Baghdad to facilitate law enforcement in the area and to reduce if not to eradicate terrorist attacks originating in areas adjacent to Baghdad. The Kurdish issue is also a thorny issue for Baghdad. Following unsuccessful negotiations, the Iraqi government allowed the Kurds to run the oil industry in the Kirkuk area and to monetize the oil produced to finance the Kurdish economy. However, the Kurds, aware of the weakness of the central government in Baghdad, courted and armed by the United States and the West, and encouraged by their victories against the IS in Iraq and Syria, are now considering a referendum on whether to declare an independent state. Although the Kurds say that it is only meant to take the pulse of the people and not to be implemented immediately, these noises are not welcome in Baghdad which sees the specter of secession becoming a reality in its northern provinces. It is clear that such a declaration would draw the ire of Turkey and Iran as much as Baghdads, and its consequences could carry a dire predicament to a potential Kurdish self-proclaimed independence. The Islamic State, under attack by the Russians and the Western military coalition led by the United States, is feeling the crunch. Thousands of its fighters have been killed or incapacitated by the air raids. The French Defense Minister mentioned the number of 20,000 casualties which could mean a very heavy toll on the military structure of the IS. However, even after losing Ramadi and Tikrit, the IS has enough energy to continue to fight in Syria and Iraq. During the year and a half since the declaration of the caliphate, the IS has succeeded to gain new territories in Southeast Asia, Central Asia, India, Afghanistan and the North Caucasian region. Its franchises in Egypt, the Gulf States, and North Africa are expanding and are still very active. Of late, indications suggest that the IS is looking for a possible alternative to Rakka in the failed state of Libya. The vacuum created in Libya since the ousting of Qaddafi by the West which contributed to the disintegration of Libya offers now a safe haven for jihadists in North Africa, destabilizing North Africa and the African Sahel states. The number of IS fighters in Libya has doubled in a year (5,000 fighters as of today), and their main goal is to capture the oil installations in the area of Sirte after having made inroads in Tripolitania and Cyrenaica. The growing IS presence in Libya has lit red lights in Europe and the United States. The possibility of a military Western and Russian military intervention in Libya is now closer to reality than before. Unlike Rakka, Sirte in Libya is less than an hour flight from the coast of Italy. Moreover, the IS has taken advantage of the enormous influx of refugees to Europe by introducing IS agents and operatives disguised as refugees, part of its strategy to wage terrorist attacks in the very heart of Europe. The Changing Saudi Arabia. Far under the radar, and for almost a year, another conflict between Sunni Arabs and Arab Shiites backed by Iran has been unraveling. Saudi Arabia is leading an Arab military coalition against the Houthis in Yemen with little success. The military intervention by Saudi Arabia in Yemen was accompanied by a much-publicized campaign promising a swift end to the rebellion initiated by the Houthis against the elected government. However, even with the participation of allied Arab armies, including Egypt, Sudan and the Emirates, the Saudi campaign achieved very little in military accomplishments. At this point it appears that the war in Yemen will persist with no clear ending in the near future. Pursuant to the Saudis confrontational policy carried out since the death of King Abdullah, the ascension of King Salman, and the nomination of his young son, Deputy Crown Prince Mohammad Bin Salman al-Saud, as minister of Defense of the kingdom, Saudi Arabia has join with Qatar to spearhead the effort to bring down the Alawite regime in Syria. Saudi Arabia has made no secret of its policy to arm and finance the Sunni rebels fighting against the Alawite-Iranian-Hizbullah coalition in Syria. Saudi Arabia has been active in trying to promote a Pax Saudiana by gathering in Riyadh and Geneva the main opposition factions to the Assad regime, but to no avail for the time being. Saudi Arabia went as far as declaring its readiness to send troops to fight ISIS in Syria and Iraq which considers the ruling Wahhabi family and regime in Saudi Arabia to be heretical. In fact Saudi Arabia is facing a double threat to its regime both initiated by outside factors. The first one is directed by Iran using the Shiite population in Saudi Arabia as a means to destabilize the kingdom, and the second one is inspired by the Sunni radicals in Al-Qaeda and ISIS. Saudi Arabia has openly accused Iran of meddling in its internal affairs and pointed at Iran as a terrorist state undermining the stability of the Gulf region. The disaster that occurred during the 2015 Hajj, with the death of scores of Iranian pilgrims and the disappearance of several high-ranking Iranian officials who took part in the pilgrimage, poisoned even more the already strained relations between the two countries. The straw that broke the camels back was Saudi Arabias execution on 47 Shiites accused of terrorism including the Shiite cleric Nimr al-Nimr who was considered to be the spiritual leader of the Shiite opposition to the Wahhabi policy of persecution. Iranian mobs attacked and ransacked Saudi diplomatic missions in Iran, and Saudi Arabia answered by severing its diplomatic relations with Teheran. However, with the two countries understanding they were sliding towards confrontation, they chose to lower the flames for the time being and not to engage in an open conflict. Rather, both Iran and Saudi Arabia chose to continue their fight through their respective proxies. Saudi Arabia announces from time to time the uncovering of subversive schemes inspired by Iran. There has not been a month without the Saudis announcing the discovering of clandestine terrorist cells and without suicide attacks being carried out by jihadists associated either with Al-Qaeda or ISIS against cult Shiite mosques and military installations. Saudi Arabia is experiencing an unprecedented period of domestic instability due to terrorist activities carried out by Saudi recruits who joined the jihadist effort to destabilize the Kingdom. The Saudi Patriot Act (similar to the one enacted in the United States) meant to deter Saudis from joining the ranks of the Jihadists did not meet with great success. The Saudi volunteers in ISIS and Al-Qaeda remain one of the biggest contingents of fighters and carry the dubious title of being the highest number of volunteer suicide bombers. The Arab press today is full of innuendos relating to the possible abdication of the Saudi king to be replaced by his young and energetic son, Salman, the architect of the war in Yemen and of Saudi intervention in Syria. Abd el-Fattah el-Sisi On the other bank of the Red Sea, Saudi Arabias ally, President of Egypt Abd el-Fattah el-Sisi, is also fighting in order to survive the jihadist tide. Five years after the ousting of President Mubarak, and following the Islamist Mohamed Morsis short presidency, Egypt under Field-Marshall Sisi is fighting to regain stability. Never in its modern history did Egypt have such tumultuous and unraveling events. The domestic scene is the main issue for the Sisi government to tackle. The Muslim Brotherhood, far from conceding defeat to the army, is still trying to topple the regime. Thousands of them are in jail with several of them being tried before exceptional tribunals; hundreds are awaiting execution. In the meantime, they have managed together with ultra-extreme jihadists to create an atmosphere of uncertainty in Egypt, striking from time to time at institutional targets, high-ranking officials, and military and police installations. President Sisi himself said in an interview he had uncovered two assassination attempts against his life. However, unlike the past regimes, Sisi has engaged his army to fight and restore Egyptian sovereignty in Sinai where the local jihadists (Ansar Bayt el Makdess) have sworn allegiance to the Islamic State and changed their name accordingly to IS-Wilayat Sina (IS-Sinai Province). The events in Libya and the emergence of ISIS in that failed state are also a cause to worry. The Egyptian air force has struck several times at ISIS camps in Libya, and there is constant talk about a ground military operation in order to stabilize Egypts western borders with Libya. Sisi must also focus his attention on events in Ethiopia where the government has decided to build a mammoth dam on the Nile called the Renaissance Dam whose basin when finished will create a serious problem for the Nile flow to Egypt. Negotiations are being held between Egypt and the countries to be affected by the dam with the Ethiopian government in order to try to minimize the impact of the dam on the daily life of the Nile basin countries. Under the Morsi presidency, leaks to the press reported a debate in parliament during which the bombing of the dam by Egypt was one of the options considered by some of the parliament members. Sisi had to fight for the legitimacy of his presidency especially vis-a-vis Washington which considered a freeze on all military and economic aid to Egypt following what it perceived as a military coup against the democratically elected President [Morsi]. The United States delayed the delivery of weapon systems, some of which were essential in the battle against the jihadists in Sinai, such as Apache gunships and F-16 aircraft. Sisis answer was to open up towards Russia and to sign with Moscow huge deals for weapons and nuclear electricity generation plants financed by Saudi funds. France also became a partner by selling Rafale aircraft and Navy frigates. Finally, Egypt struck deals with Europeans entities relating to its gas exploration program leaving American companies out of the room. The more the Egyptian regime encountered bumps on its way, the more the regime became nervous and retaliated by limiting the freedom of expression. Draconian laws were enacted relating to the freedom of the press and the government made no secret of its zero tolerance to criticism, thus transforming what had been promised as a road map to democracy into a road map to military dictatorship. Egypt under Sisi reverted to the early days of the Nassers regime following the resignation of General Negi in 1954. Where Will the Middle East Be in Five Years? Five years after the outburst of the so-called Arab Spring, the Middle East has changed radically. Not only have nation-states crumbled, transformed or become failed-states, the moderating forces which used to hold the structures together are no longer present, have switched their allegiance allowing new factors to appear and dominate the scene. Such is the situation with the United States which is accused by almost all Arabs to be the source of the creation of ISIS, to have abandoned its traditional allies for the benefit of Iran, to have failed to assist friends in need and to have looked at the Muslim Brothers as an alternative to secular nation-states. As a result, Arab states are questioning U.S. policy and raising questions about its resolve to lead the military coalition against the Islamic State. Russia found the cracks in the geopolitical wall and easily replaced the United States with its traditional clients. Russias success in Syria is but another sign of the weakness of the United States in these dire times. Five years from now, what Middle East can we expect? It would be foolish to prophesize. But it would not be adventurous to say that we will be confronted with a new map with new entities born or re-born. However, the future of the Middle East will remain conditional on the events and transformations that will affect the United States, Russia, Iran, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and Israel. In this equation there is no room for the IS: sooner or later, the traditional forces will destroy the entity. This does not mean that the jihadist, Salafist ideology will be eradicated and that jihadist cells will stop from being established. Unless the roots of the problem are dealt with meaning the financing of religious institutions the jihadist movement will continue its interaction with the financial institutions receiving their funds from Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait and even Morocco. Col. (ret.) Dr. Jacques Neriah, a special analyst for the Middle East at the Jerusalem Center for Public Affairs, was formerly Foreign Policy Advisor to Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin and Deputy Head for Assessment of Israeli Military Intelligence. Home What I like about Bernie Sanders By Dr. Peter Morici No doubt after losses in Nevada and South Carolina, Bernie Sanders faces a tough uphill battle for the Democratic nomination. But as an economic conservative, I urge Super Tuesday voters to give Bernie a closer look. On some key areas of policy, his views should be attractive to disaffected voters on both the left and right, who togetheras demonstrated by Donald Trump's and Sanders' strong challenges to political establishments in the primarieslikely constitute a majority of the general electorate. Increasing the economy is monopolized. For example, prices for medical procedures and insurance are much higher in locales where the Affordable Care Act has permitted hospitals and insurance companies to enjoy limited competition. Germans pay about a third less for health careand Britain nearly halfthan Americans. Obamacare didn't make it cheaper but instead imposes terrible bureaucratic burdens and requires too many young people to purchase coverage with huge deductibles they cannot afford. Bush Care, which mainstream Republicans want to resurrect with tax deductions and other gimmicks, left too many people without insurance, because sometimes the free market doesn't work very well. Like it or not, sometimes, the government has to create a regulated public utility or do the job itself. A single payer in the model of Britain, as both Sanders and Trump have advocated, may be the only way to relieve the hassles and rein in high costs. In the wake of the 2008 financial meltdown, Dodd-Frank has not limited the power of the big banks. Instead it has imposed mindless reporting burdens onto community bankswho didn't cause the crisis in the first place. Now small businesses can't get loans and create enough jobs. Big banks are absorbing smaller regional banks, gambling with our deposits on commodities and foreign exchange, and stuffing executives pockets with huge bonuses. Bernie's got it right on the big banksbust them up and instigate more competition His skepticism of free tradesupported by many moderates in both partiesis well founded. With Republican support, President Obama implemented a free trade pact with South Korea that has ballooned the bilateral trade deficit and killed 130,000 jobs. Overall, badly implemented trade deals are costing Americans some 4 million jobs. Certainly, I find many of Bernie's redistributionist policies too expensive and badly conceived. Soak the rich taxes and free tuition won't fix income inequality. Aggressive taxes could easily drive more businesses off shore and make everyone poorer in the bargain. We hardly need to send everyone to college. The problem with higher education is not access but high pricesmore subsidies won't fix that. However, the country is already spending a ton on national health care. It's really a problem of redirecting that money to a national health care agencybusinesses and ordinary folks may be paying more taxes to fund it but they will get to skip those huge health insurance premiums, co-pays and deductibles. Banks have proven too big to regulate and their huge political contributions have motivated federal antitrust cops to turn a blind eye to their abusive behavior. After taking huge federal subsidies to build a green factory in Indiana, Carrier is moving operations to Mexico. You got to admit, its executives know how to mine the system but workers and taxpayers get the shaft. I would prefer any of the Republicans to Hillary Clinton. She is too tainted by acts of questionable integrity, too beholden to powerful business interests that are bilking ordinary Americans and fighting battles long ago wonyoung women now receive 60 percent of college degrees, often earn more than young men and increasingly are assuming positions of leadership throughout society. Bernie is straightforward and honest. He learned about the dreams of ordinary people the same place I didplaying stickball on the streets of New York. He's a sweetheart. Peter Morici is an economist and business professor at the University of Maryland, and a national columnist. He tweets @pmorici1 The New World Order Cabal vs. The Trump/Putin/Beijing Triumvirate By Michael Moriarty Does Donald Trump know a lot more than he's telling us? Is his apparently growing friendship with Vladimir Putin the source of such secret information? I ask that only because of Donald Trump calling President Barack Hussein Obama "stupid". In one of their debating encounters, Marco Rubio objected quite eloquently to Trump's description of Obama and points out the increasingly threatening successes of Barack Obama's "fundamental transformation of the United States." From my point of view, calling Barack Obama stupid, if you continue the line of reasoning in my article (and that logic's literal bloodline), is like calling Egypt an irrelevant corner of human history. On the other hand, if you see things the way Mr. Trump might be viewing them, Obama is merely the tool of a treasonous American Cabal, headed by the Bushes and the Clintons, and actually, in Obama's fairly bizarre servitude to The Cabal, simply following orders. The Dr. Jeckyl of George Soros and his billionaire's money had been the primary creators of Barack Obama's President Hyde. Apparently that honeymoon is long-over. There's something about the Bushes which the cited article accuses George W. Bush and Rudolph "Rudy" Giuliani of, and which Donald Trump threatened to disclose unless, of course, Jeb Bush ends all of his typically Bush, Presidential ambitions. Perhaps that possible threat from Trump and, of course, Jeb Bush's poor showing throughout the Republican Primary explains Bush's recently decisive exit from the race. The History-Making ghost in the Bush Family Closet: "Did George W. Bush deliberately cause the fall of the Twin Towers and Building 7?" Why, in God's name, would he do that?!?! Grounds for starting a war to save the Arab Emirates and its oil from Saddam Hussein? It is not, however, in my old and decades-long, considered opinion, merely about oil. The Bush Philosophy has, for at least three generations of the family, from Grandfather Prescott to Grandsons George W. and Jeb, clung fiercely to the presumptions of a centuries-old fraternity and family blood-line, self-described as "The Illuminati". "The same intent within these people", says the narrator of this rather interesting psycho and spiritual analysis, this entertainingly brief theory about the "illuminati's insanity", is the sickness that now grips the world! "This bloodline carries the symbol of our illness." It is a most entertaining theory that the narrator lays out within 7 minutes. However, with Jeb Bush out of the Presidential race, Rubio and Cruz increasingly behind the soaring, unexpectedly winged giant, Donald Trump, there's only one man to concentrate on. Thank God it is not a Bush. It is, however, Donald Trump! This link is why I declared I could not possibly support Donald Trump's "neutrality". This, however, leaves me wondering, how many undisclosed games has he already begun to play with his "partner", Vladimir Putin? I know that as "The Great Negotiator" he needs running room. With these two, contradictory statements of yes and no about Israel, I'm certain that Palestine can't trust him and perhaps, because of Trump's assurances, his promise of American support in defense of Israel, Trump at least looks like a major improvement over the Israel-hating Barack Hussein Obama. But isn't Trump inviting trouble with his first claim of "neutrality"?! Won't both Palestine and Iran see it as a "green light" to attack Tel Aviv?! There is, however, the beginning of a new game in world politics: The Trump/Putin Alliance for World Ownership. Donald Trump has clearly handed the Middle East over to Vladimir Putin as his, to put it politely, "sphere of influence" which Trump has vowed not to involve himself in. But has Trump also handed Europe as well over to Vladimir Putin?!?! Aren't we looking at two men dividing up the whole world except for Red China? And why? China then succumbs to "an offer she can't refuse". China surrenders to the overwhelming power of an American/Neo-Soviet Russian Alliance?! Then, indeed, what ruled the known world of Emperor Augustus Caesar in a Triumvirate of Caesar, Pompei and Mark Antony is, basically, the Trump/Putin "negotiation" with the Politburo of Red China. Trump runs the complete and dual continents of both North and South America? While Putin, with the exception of China and China's puppets, North Korea and Vietnam, runs the entire land mass of Euro-Russia, the Middle East and Africa?! That's the beginning of The Trump/Putin Boiler Plate Plan for world domination. And, who knows, a Pax Romana version of world peace. The Trump/Putin version of the Pax Romana! Once can only "negotiate" such a vision if one sees one's self in the same light that Barack Obama has been "seeing himself": As An Emperor! Eight years of an American President's contempt for the Constitution and its Bill of Rights is bad enough. But with a President Trump, could this absolute destruction of America's foundations continue for another eight years? Sixteen years in all under two "Emperors"? A world peace, modeled upon the Pax Romana which could be retitled The Pax Mundi Triumvirate! One that is, perhaps, already agreed upon between those two in private communications, many of which we are now becoming increasingly aware of? Vladimir Putin has repeatedly declared that he is not in love or even a part of The New World Order. I assume, perhaps incorrectly, that Donald Trump agrees with him. Trump and Putin want nothing to do with what I consider a Treasonous American Nightmare: the Bush/Clinton/Bush/Obama New World Order to be ostensibly run by the United Nations. It is treason. However, is 8 more years of Pure Imperial Arrogance in the White House?! The trashing of the American Constitution and Bill of Rights?! All for the empowerment of this once successful formula for world peace: a Triumvirate of Trump/ Putin and Communist Beijing?! We shall see. Michael Moriarty is a Golden Globe and Emmy Award-winning actor who starred in the landmark television series Law and Order from 1990 to 1994. His recent film and TV credits include The Yellow Wallpaper, 12 Hours to Live, Santa Baby and Deadly Skies. Contact Michael at rainbowfamily2008@yahoo.com. He can be found on Twitter at https://twitter.com/@MGMoriarty. Home In search of a distinctive English-language Polish-Canadian writing (Part One) By Mark Wegierski This essay is partially based on my article,"Is there a distinctive English-language Polish-Canadian writing?: In search of a fragmentary tradition." Strumien (Stream) (Rocznik Tworczosci Polskiej w Zachodniej Kanadzie) (An Annual of Polish Creative Endeavour in Western Canada) no 8 (2012), pp. 18-24 strumien.ca That article was based on a draft of a presentation read at the 19th Annual Conference of the Polish Association for the Study of English (PASE) -- Crossing frontiers, staking out new territories (Kalisz, Poland: Adam Mickiewicz University in Poznan Kalisz Campus), April 19-21, 2010. Canada today is officially and juridically a multicultural society. This means, among other things, that the distinctive cultures of various diasporas are at least in theory -- encouraged, and, to a greater or lesser extent, supported by Canadian federal, provincial, and major-municipal governments. At the same time, the so-called main Canadian culture also receives extensive support from all levels of Canadian government. The Canadian Broadcasting Corporation (CBC), Canadian book publishers, Canadian magazine publishers, and many individual authors, are subsidized -- especially by the federal government. In more recent decades, there have arisen in Canada a number of distinct "hyphenated" literatures in the English language, such as the Italian-Canadian, the Ukrainian-Canadian, the Indo-Canadian, and so forth. There is as well the participation of authors of various ethno-cultural groups in the so-called mainstream of CanLit. One example of this type of authors is Rohinton Mistry. "CanLit" an abbreviation of "Canadian Literature" is the term used to describe the core of Canadian book publishing endeavours. Among the archetypical CanLit authors is Margaret Atwood. There are, according to the most expansive definition of the Canada Census, over one million persons of Polish descent in Canada. Despite these apparently large numbers, a distinct Polish-Canadian writing in English has not really taken flight, nor have more than a few authors of Polish descent achieved some prominence in CanLit. Leaving aside Polish-language writing which may be termed as Polish literature in Canada -- Polish-Canadian writing may be subdivided into works by emigre authors in the English language, of which there is some presence; and works by persons of Polish descent born in Canada (or who arrived in Canada before later adolescence), of which there is less of a presence. First of all, there is among nearly everyone among the generations born in Canada, a drastic loss of Polish language and of significant affinities with Polishness. Can persons who have a rather imperfect knowledge of literary Polish, still be strongly linked to Polish matters on the basis of a strong affect for their parents' heritage? It has often been considered that a given language is one of the strongest markers of ethnic affinity and identity. So it is clear that persons of Polish descent in Canada who write in English are really partaking in an intermediary literature. Is there a definable Polish-Canadian literature? One thing to be noticed is that there is comparatively little fiction. Most of the writing consists of various types of memoir, as well as, especially in the case of the author of this article, academic and journalistic writing. I would like to discuss "A Mother's Legacy", Apolonja Kojder's memoir in Marynia, Don't Cry: Memoirs of Two Polish-Canadian Families (University of Toronto Press, 1995). (The title of the entire book is taken from Pola's memoir; the second memoir is by Barbara Glogowska.) Pola draws helpful attention to such matters as to how difficult life truly was in earlier parts of the Twentieth Century, as well as chronicling her highly tragic family history. Her father, mother, and their young daughter, Apolonja Rozalia, were deported to Siberia, where Rozalia would die a sister whom Pola (who was born in 1948 in Canada) would never come to know. (Her parents settled in North Battleford, Saskatchewan.) Her uncle was murdered by the NKVD as part of the Katyn massacres in 1940. She lists twenty relatives who did not survive the war. Tragedy continued after the war's end. Her father's cousin, Wladyslaw Kojder, a prominent leader of the independent Polish Peasants' Party, was brutally murdered by the Communist secret police in September 1945. She found out many years later, that another of her relatives had died in 1947 as a result of chemical poisoning from slave labour in a chemical factory, to which he was assigned after rejecting an offer of Soviet citizenship. Pola's father died in 1968 in a tragic workplace accident, while saving the life of another worker. Those were times when workplace heroism was not usually recognized. During her speech at the Katyn commemoration ceremonies in April 2001, Pola endeavoured to describe to an audience which included Canadians the vastness of the Katyn tragedy. In the context of Canadian multiculturalism, her drawing attention to the somewhat variegated nature of the Katyn victims all Polish citizens of various faiths and ethnic backgrounds was rather creative and appropriate. At the 2008 Annual Conference of the Canadian Association of Slavists held at the University of British Columbia, Joanna Kordus, a graduate student at UBC, presented a paper: "Feminine Life Writing and Polish Ethnic Invisibility in the Canadian Landscape: Reading Apolonja Kojder's Marynia, Don't Cry Transnationally." Later in 2008, Joanna Kordus (who had emigrated to Canada at the age of thirteen) successfully defended her M.A. thesis in Comparative Literature on the topic of: "Self-Inscriptions: Ethnic, Indigenous, Linguistic and Female Identity Constructions in Canadian Minority Life Writing: A Comparison of Apolonja Kojder's Marynia, Don't Cry and Rita Joe's Song of Rita Joe." In her paper and thesis, Kordus brought attention to the many worthwhile and noteworthy aspects of Pola's writing. She noted it was an almost singular example of a specifically Polish-Canadian identity and vision in Canada. Against all the odds, and in the face of long-term travails and marginalization, Pola was attempting to give voice to a specifically Polish-Canadian identity. In her thesis, Kordus compared this to how the Aboriginal author Rita Joe was also writing out of a place of suffering. She compared Kojder's use of Polish words, and Joe's use of Aboriginal words, in the respective texts, as an attempt to catch some of the essence of conceptual differences between the so-called Canadian mainstream culture, and the two minority visions. Kordus suggested that a dialogue between diasporic and aboriginal minorities could lead to helpful insights. Apolonja Maria Kojder is indeed a representative of a fragmentary tradition of Polish-Canadian writing, a tradition that has been beset by various adversities. To be continued. Mark Wegierski is a Toronto-based writer and historical researcher. Home The Trump freight train By Mark Alexander Donald Trump won the Nevada caucus last Tuesday with almost 46% of the vote, and he is now three for four. Marco Rubio claimed 24% to Ted Cruz's 21%. For his part, Trump told his supporters, "Now we're winning, winning, winning the country, and soon the country is going to start winning, winning, winning!" Of the Nevada demographics, he said, "We won the evangelicals. We won with young. We won with old. We won with highly educated. We won with poorly educated. I love the poorly educated. We're the smartest people. We're the most loyal people, and you know what I'm happy about? Because I've been saying it for a long time 46% were the Hispanics 46%. Number one with Hispanics. I'm really happy about that." And according to the entrance polling and the exit polling, he is correct. Though Nevada, like Iowa, is a caucus state, and only 70,000 people turned out, the breadth of Trump's support among those voters was impressive. The commonly held theory that Trump has a "low ceiling" of support, capped at just 30%, is questionable. As Byron York writes, "If he has a ceiling ... it is higher than earlier thought." The GOP delegate count is now Trump 81, Cruz 17, Rubio 17, Kasich 6 and Carson 4. That is a long way from the 1,237 delegates needed to secure the Republican nomination, but the Trump train is full of steam. Trump's campaign is a case study of how a wealthy, masterful self-promoter can keep himself front-and-center in the mainstream media, and how that keeps him on top in the polls in a field with multiple opponents. Though Trump could buy his way to a Republican primary victory, he won't have to. There are three factors propelling Trump's lead. But before defining those factors, by way of disclosure up front let me say that I will "vote early and often" for Donald Trump if he is the Republican nominee. Here is what I know about Trump. Beyond all the bluster, he surrounds himself with smart and capable people. He is, first and foremost, a promoter and negotiator and those are useful presidential attributes. He treats his people well and is liked by most of those who work for him, top to bottom. He can be as amusing as he is annoying. Notably, he has a similar demographic appeal to that of Ronald Reagan. Though President Reagan had a long and distinguished conservative record prior to his election in 1981 which Trump most certainly does not Trump does attract "Reagan Democrats," blue-collar workers who helped secure sweeping Republican victories in 1980 and 1984. On the flip side, I believe that Trump is a textbook narcissist, not unlike Barack Obama, and I have grave reservations about trading one for the other because those with such pathology are driven primarily by self-interest, which may or may not coincide with the national interest. Having said that, my greatest concern in 2016 is that the Republican nominee be able to defeat Hillary Clinton, Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren, Michael Bloomberg or whoever comes out of their convention if Clinton is indicted. My preference would be a genuine conservative nominee with a track record to back it up. The three factors propelling Trump's candidacy thus far have created something of a "perfect storm" for him, but there is no guarantee those winds will prevail on November 8, 2016. 1. The Obama Effect Despite his decidedly liberal "New York values" and the fact that his brilliantly timed and superbly calculated rhetoric is mostly fragrance and not substance, Trump's broad appeal is sustained because that rhetoric affirms the anger of conservatives and moderates across the board anger that has been seeded by the extraordinary arrogance of Obama and the failure of Republicans to counter his populist policies. Because of Trump's celebrity, he came into the race with enviable name recognition, but his fearless and often inflammatory remarks have propelled the wealthy populist to the top of the Republican heap. Now, I know what you're thinking: Isn't "wealthy populist" an oxymoron? Actually, it isn't at least not among Democrats. Look no further than Franklin Delano Roosevelt, JFK and the current generation of "useful idiots" they spawned. In truth, Trump's support reflects very little about his history or qualifications, but it reflects a whole lot about his message and how dissatisfied millions of disenfranchised Americans are with Republican "leadership." The status quo represented by former House Speaker John Boehner and current Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has, in effect, underwritten Trump's rising stardom. Despite greatly increasing the numbers of genuine conservatives in the House and Senate in the historic "2014 Republican Wave," bolstering their numbers from the 2010 midterm, the much-loathed remnant of "establishment types" still held the reins and failed to counter Obama's Socialist Democratic Party policies. Worse, GOP "leaders" marginalized or ignored the concerns of the conservative/Republican base, and we are rightly outraged. Additionally, if Trump is anything, he is brash and America is brash. His rhetoric brings some much-needed humor and levity to an otherwise dry quadrennial Republican presidential field. Though his trademark "Make America Great Again" slogan lacks any substantive policy positions or insights to back it up, it certainly resonates with grassroots folks. As National Review's Rich Lowry concludes, "One lesson of the success of the Trump for president campaign is that as long as you are not making sense with great certainty and forcefulness, no one will care too much that you aren't making sense. For now, it's part of the genius of Trump as communicator." 2. The Fratricidal Field of Contenders Going into Iowa, there were 17 Republican contenders who were fighting each other rather than focusing on their Democrat opponents. That field is now down to five on the Super Tuesday ballots next week and they have now elevated the infighting to shouting matches. "The Republican process of picking Clinton's opponent already has ... pruned the field from 17 to five, with only four Trump, Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio and John Kasich (but not Ben Carson) with arguable paths to the nomination," notes George Will. But all paths except Trump's go over dead man's bluff unless the field narrows to three, and then two, candidates. Fact is, in national head-to-head matchups, where Trump faces only Ted Cruz or Marco Rubio, he loses to both. But as long as Trump has three or more opponents, he'll continue to win state primaries all the way to the GOP convention. Shamefully, one of the key factors propelling Trump's candidacy among the larger field of contenders is the absurdly self-defeating fratricidal attacks between Republicans, most notably Cruz and Rubio. They are grossly violating Reagan's 11th Commandment on Republican primaries: "Thou shalt not speak ill of any fellow Republican." Despite my admiration of Cruz for his conservative credentials, he has driven much of the infighting with Rubio, and Trump has thrived on the crossfire. Cruz has pasted the "establishment" label on Rubio, but if Rubio is "establishment," then the establishment is now very conservative. Rubio has a lifetime American Conservative Union rating of 98 (out of 100). He has a perfect NRA rating. Citizens Against Government Waste gives him a 95, and National Right to Life gives him a 100. Fact is, he's a genuine conservative. And it is no small testament to his conservatism that the Koch brothers' senior political adviser, Marc Short, signed on with Rubio's campaign this week. Because Trump defined this race as one about immigration rather than far more pressing national security issues, Cruz has assailed Rubio for his "amnesty" position which implies a path to citizenship but in fact was modeled after Ronald Reagan's efforts to provide legal worker status to illegal immigrants. Notably, Trump supports the same "amnesty" for illegal immigrants but with the caveat of a Republican "touchback" proposal first offered by former Sen. Kay Bailey Hutchison (R-TX) in 2007. As American Enterprise Institute fellow Marc Thiessen wrote in "Trump Supports Amnesty," Hutchison "offered a 'touchback' amendment on the Senate floor that would have required illegal immigrants to return to their home countries to apply for a special 'Z visa' that would allow them to reenter the United States in an expedited fashion and work here indefinitely." Trump's son Eric concurred, noting, "The point isn't just deporting them, it's deporting them and letting them back in legally." The net result of the infighting is that Cruz's supporters think Rubio is "establishment," and Rubio's supporters think Cruz is a liar. 3. Media Propulsion and the Pollaganda Effect Substance or not, Trump knows how to suck all the air out of any room where the media are present. And they love him even those who love to hate him because, as Trump has oft noted, media focus on him sells lots of advertising! Indeed, Trump's media coverage overshadows that of all the other Republican contenders combined. No question that, though he has spent very little on media advertising, Trump generates a lot of market share and thus ad revenue for every media outlet from right to left. Notably, virtually none of that media is devoted to exposing his long list of prevarications at least not yet. If Trump sews up the Republican nomination, look for the mainstream media to stop playing kissy face and start tearing him apart ahead of the general election. His contradictory positions abound, as we've noted in Donald vs. Trump on ObamaCare, on Christianity, on Iraq, and, of course, his shameful practice of playing the "9/11 Card" and the "Veterans Card" when he's painted himself into a rhetorical corner. For now, the media are content to ride The Donald's gravy train, but when it comes time to determine our next president, the MSM's leftist ideology will trump all other concerns. In the end, the media's shameless and fleeting love affair with Trump helps explain why, according to Rasmussen Reports, more Americans believe media bias is a bigger problem than money in politics. The net effect of Trump's 24/7 media coverage is his sustained lead in polls, or what The Patriot Post coined many years ago as the "Pollaganda Effect." This term refers to a propagandistic disinformation technique where political polling masquerades as "objective journalism" and instead advances a bias a bias that can be driven by ideology, advertising revenue or both. Pollaganda uses outcome-based opinion samples (polling instruments designed to generate a preferential outcome) reflecting prior-opinion indoctrination or cultivation by the media. The incestuous results are then used to manipulate public opinion further by advancing the perception that a particular opinion on an issue enjoys majority support. The MSM then presents this "data" as if it were "news." Pollaganda, then, is self-fulfilling. The net result is that, at every debate, poll standing has put Donald Trump center stage. The MSM, therefore, is choosing the Republican nominee. So, where does this leave us? As I asked a few weeks back, "If Trump is the answer, what is the question"? Fact is, Trump's supporters are asking the most important questions every genuine conservative is asking. Consistent with The Patriot Post's mission statement, all of us are asking, "How do we restore constitutional limits on government and the judiciary? How do we restore free enterprise, our national defense capabilities and traditional American values? How do we undo all of the damage Obama has done and correct our nation's course back toward Liberty? How do we defeat Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders and win the next presidential election?" Donald Trump is not the answer. But unless the field narrows to Trump and one other contender, he will likely be the GOP nominee. On that note, his supporters would do well to grasp the meaning of Patrick Henry's words on the eve of the American Revolution: "It is natural to man to indulge in the illusions of hope. We are apt to shut our eyes against a painful truth, and listen to the song of that siren till she transforms us into beasts." Mark Alexander is the executive editor of the Patriot Post. That is just for one sphere of government the national government, says senior civil servant Dhaya Govender. A further R3.5 billion goes towards leases for provincial and local government property space while R3 billion is budgeted for maintenance, heard industry players attending a seminar at a swanky Fairlawns Hotel in Johannesburgs Morningside Manor on Monday. Its in service delivery that the private sector, as landlords and property practitioners, lags, comments Govender, divisional head of real estate at the Public Management Trading Entity (PMTE). Despite claiming circa R7.5 billion, annually, from the state, private firms fare shabbily, he argues. Government neither gets peace of mind nor derives maximum value from these taxpayers billions. In many instances we dont get the peace of mind, moans PMTEs real estate head, noting that its SMMEs that deliver satisfactory service sometimes at prices below market-related levels. Further, SMMEs do better in terms of broad-based empowerment than their bigger, JSE-listed, cousins. PMTE boss Paul Serote says his entity is yet to quantify the size of the procurement budget claimed by SMMEs (of all races), black firms, and female-owned businesses. At last count, Public Works spent no more than 5% of its fat budget on black entities. For Vuyiswa Mutshekwane, CEO at the South African Institute of Black Property Practitioners, such numbers and the inexplicable nay gnawing dearth of women in property boardrooms among other top posts are bad news for the transformation project. Meanwhile, some larger, unnamed, landlords are said to take the Department of Public Works for a ride. If (you behave) like that to Standard Bank, theyll leave. The (same goes for) Checkers. We are not asking for marble floors, pleads Govender, accusing the industry of showing minimal interest when it comes to delivery at government-leased properties. Malfunctioning aircons and lifts come to mind. Owing to issues of concentration the state has no alternatives, sometimes, he concedes, in response to a question from the floor. The private sector has to rise to the occasion. The seminar hosted by the PMTE, the South African Property Owners Association (Sapoa), and the Property Sector Charter Council (PSCC) earlier heard, from Public Works Minister Thulas Nxesi, governments plan to contain costs (and) cut waste. Graft is as vexing an issue, he says. That private sector giants fail in the realm of service delivery, to quote Govender, can be interpreted as a game of dare for the state to look elsewhere. Governments property portfolio spans 100 000 buildings on 35 000 land parcels, explains Nxesi, adding that values will be assigned to all Public Affairs-managed assets by the end of this financial year thats in five weeks time. Serotes team has been hectic mining such data while ensuring that the state use its chequebook as a lever. Just last week Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan singled government leases. Where poor service is an issue, landlords and other service providers over reliant on government business can barely afford to sit still. We need to remind ourselves that the Minister of Finance... directs all spheres of government to renegotiate all leases. This includes all goods leased in and leased out, says Nxesi. His ministerial budget speech is expected to address some of the concerns raised by stakeholders seminar including shedding light on issues such as a switch from short-term leases a stop gap measure, as Sapoas former president Sedise Moseneke puts it. [With] the immovable asset register and the PMTE in place, we now have the tools to leverage the states massive property portfolio for economic development, job creation and empowerment, Nxesi says, insisting that in addition to ownership a shift from apartheid-era profile broad-based BEE extends to generational and gender diversity, still negligible in post-1994 South Africa, and skills development. We want to see black people at operational levels too, not just management. This resonates with Mutshekwane and Portia Tau-Sekati, her PSCC counterpart, transformation agents. Mvua Property Partners executive chairman Hatla Ntene, a panellist, nods. But he observes, disappointedly, how tough it has become to do business since banks have gone into a coma. He reckons they now behave like tortoises, shying away from financing projects. Thats yet another accusation that banks defer, if not deter, transformation. Dr Reuel Khoza will join the powerhouse of business leaders from across the globe, all recognised as change agents in their fields, as a keynote speaker at the upcoming SA REIT Conference in Sandton, next month. Khoza is a distinguished businessperson and critical thinker. He is President of the Institute of Directors in Southern African (IoDSA), Chairman of Aka Capital, a former Chairman of Nedbank Group Limited and a director of several companies. Delivering an address titled Whereto South Africa? - Khoza will look at the big issues that face South African business in 2016 and beyond. In doing so, he will offer his unique perspective as an Africanist who has been at the forefront of transformation in the South African political economy. Khoza is a seasoned voice on business leadership and corporate governance. He was involved in the formulation of the King Codes on Corporate Governance in both King II and King III. Khoza rounds out a trio of hard-hitting keynote speakers at the SA REIT Conference 2016 - a trailblazing one-day executive conference focused on South Africas listed property sector. International business influencers and innovators headlining the conference include ex-CEO of Unibail-Radamco, Guillaume Poitrinal -- the driving force behind growing this European company into a global property giant. It is his first time speaking in South Africa. Forthright international keynote speaker Andrew Parsons, MD of Resolution Capital (Australia), will again challenge delegates with his thought-provoking ideas. Direct access to three such admired business leaders on a single insight-packed day is quite something, says Mark Stevens, Chairperson of the Marketing Committee of the SA REIT Association, which is hosting the conference. SA REIT represents South Africas listed REIT (real estate investment trust) sector. Its members comprise all the countrys listed REITs and represent more than R300 billion worth of property assets. The quality of these SA REITs influence our economy and the quality of people's lives. The SA REIT Conference takes place on Thursday, 17 March 2016 at The Maslow in Sandton Central. The conference is sponsored by Property Finance at Nedbank Corporate and Investment Banking (NCIB). The conferences full programme addresses the key matters, trends and influences for South Africas listed property sector, and its partner industries, right now. Government monitoring social media is adding up to silencing dissent. George Orwell fictionalised the surveillance state in 1984; Edward Snowden convincingly proved it to be a reality in the United States (US) in 2013. With the Narendra Modi governments plan to set up a National Media Analytics Centre (NMAC), India seems well on the way to following the lead given by the US. According to newspaper reports, the National Security Council Secretariat proposes setting up the NMAC to monitor and analyse blogs, web portals of television channels and newspapers, as well as social media, including Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube. In some ways this is a duplication of the New Media Wing, set up under the previous government in 2013, which sends daily reports to the government on what is appearing in social media on government policies. Where the NMAC will go farther, and deeper, is that it will not just monitor social media but will actively counter negative news about the government. To do this, it has on hand special software developed to track negative, neutral and positive posts on social media. All ministries have already been instructed to set up quick response teams to defend themselves against so-called negative news. The software will also help track the individual blogger or person posting on social media sites, the number of times this person has posted negative or positive material, his/her website preferences and whether any of these websites are those that seek to foment trouble or radicalise the viewer. The feedback from such monitoring would be passed on to security agencies. The modern plagues of obesity, physical inactivity and processed food have been definitively established as modern causes of colon cancer. Researchers have also associated a mutation of the Adenomatous polyposis coli (APC) gene with the deadly disease. But which came first? Is colon cancer a lethal product of modernity? Or is this an open-and-shut case of DNA gone awry? A new Tel Aviv University discovery suggests that a genetic predisposition to colorectal cancer preceded the advent of modernization -- and, in a bizarre twist, they discovered this evidence in an 18th-century Hungarian mummy. The research team was led by Dr. Rina Rosin-Arbesfeld of the Department of Clinical Microbiology and Immunology at TAU's Sackler Faculty of Medicine and Dr. Ella H. Sklan of the same department, together with Prof. Israel Hershkovitz and Michal Feldman of the Department of Anatomy and Anthropology at the Sackler Faculty. The findings were published February 10, 2016, in the journal PLOS ONE. Meeting the mummies In 1995, more than 265 mummies were excavated from sealed crypts in the Dominican church in Vac, Hungary. These crypts were used continuously from 1731 to 1838 for the burial of middle-class families and clerics and provided ideal conditions for the natural mummification of corpses -- low temperatures, constant ventilation and low humidity. Some 70% of the bodies found had been completely or partially mummified. The preservation of the tissue samples and abundant archival information about the individuals buried in the crypts attracted researchers from around the world, all of whom where interested in conducting their own morphological and genetic studies of the human remains. "Colorectal cancer is among the most common health hazards of modern times," Dr. Rosin-Arbesfeld explains. "And it has a proven genetic background. We wanted to discover whether people in the past carried the APC mutation -- how common it was, and whether it was the same mutation known to us today. In other words: Is the increase in the incidence of cancer the result of man's manipulation of nature alone? "After hearing that tuberculosis had been discovered in the corpses, I was interested in seeking out a number of gene mutations known to be associated with colorectal cancer," Dr. Rosin-Arbsefeld says. A new area for cancer research The researchers used genetic sequencing to identify mutations in APC genes that were isolated from the mummies. "Mummified soft tissue opens up a new area of investigation," Prof. Hershkovitz says. "Very few diseases attack the skeleton, but soft tissue carries evidence of disease. It presents an ideal opportunity to carry out a detailed genetic analysis and test for a wide variety of pathogens." "Our data reveal that one of the mummies may have had a cancer mutation. This means that a genetic predisposition to cancer may have already existed in the pre-modern era," Dr. Sklan says. "But we've found this mutation in only one individual so far. Additional studies with a larger sample size should be conducted in order to draw more meaningful conclusions." The researchers are currently establishing a specialized lab at TAU for ancient DNA research. ### Tel Aviv University (TAU) is inherently linked to the cultural, scientific and entrepreneurial mecca it represents. It is one of the world's most dynamic research centers and Israel's most distinguished learning environment. Its unique-in-Israel multidisciplinary environment is highly coveted by young researchers and scholars returning to Israel from post-docs and junior faculty positions in the US. American Friends of Tel Aviv University (AFTAU) enthusiastically and industriously pursues the advancement of TAU in the US, raising money, awareness and influence through international alliances that are vital to the future of this already impressive institution. Suffering from chronic medical conditions and engaging in unhealthy behaviors are known risk factors for early death, but findings from a longitudinal study of over 6,000 adults suggests that certain psychological factors may be even stronger predictors of how long we'll live. The findings are published in Psychological Science, a journal of the Association for Psychological Science. "Our study shows that two psychological variables, lower self-rated health and age-related decrements in processing speed, appear to be especially important indicators of elevated mortality risk in middle-age and older adults," says psychological scientist Stephen Aichele of the University of Geneva in Switzerland. "This information may facilitate diagnostic accuracy and timely interventions." Aichele and colleagues Patrick Rabbitt (University of Oxford, UK) and Paolo Ghisletta (University of Geneva, Switzerland) were interested in investigating the relative influence of cognitive, demographic, health, and lifestyle variables in predicting mortality risk. While previous research had provided some clues as to the roles played by these variables, comprehensive longitudinal studies were few and far between. "It has been long known that particular factors such as illnesses, socio-economic disadvantage, cognitive decline, and social support determine how long we survive in old age," explains Aichele. "The problem has been that these and other markers for mortality have been tested separately, rather than together. Given that they are strongly associated with each other, it makes it difficult to determine which variables most influence mortality risk." To address this gap in the available research, Aichele and colleagues turned to the Manchester Longitudinal Study of Cognition, examining 29 years' worth of data collected from 6,203 adults who ranged in age from 41 to 96 years old when they began the study. Aggregating data from 15 different tasks, the researchers looked at participants' cognitive performance across five domains of ability: crystallized intelligence, fluid intelligence, verbal memory, visual memory, and processing speed. The tasks--all well-established measures of cognitive ability--were administered up to four times over a 12-year period, allowing the researchers to assess participants' baseline performance and change in performance over time for each domain. To gauge participants' health, the researchers used the Cornell Medical Index, a measure that includes detailed checklists of a total of 195 pathological symptoms related to physical and psychological disorders. Finally, the researchers looked at participants' subjective reports of various lifestyle factors, including perceived health, number of prescribed medicines, sleep patterns, hobbies, leisure activities, and social interactions. Using two types of statistical analysis, the researchers were able to assess the relative importance of a total of 65 different variables in predicting participants' mortality risk. The results revealed subjective health and mental processing speed to be two of the strongest predictors - that is, better perceived health and smaller decreases in processing speed over time were associated with reduced mortality risk. Being a woman was also associated with reduced mortality risk, while years of smoking tobacco was linked with an increased risk of early death. The influence of the two psychological factors relative to known medical risk factors, such as cardiovascular symptoms, came as a surprise: "The result that psychological variables are so strongly linked to mortality risk is very surprising because much extant evidence supports the hypothesis that the strongest predictors of survival in old age are of medical or physiological nature," explains Aichele. These findings may provide useful insights to health professionals, who need better methods for identifying individuals at risk of early death. "Addressing the needs of an aging global population will require accounting for numerous morbidity and mortality risk factors, such as demographic variables, health conditions, functional capacities, mental abilities, and social support," the researchers conclude. ### This work was supported by Swiss National Science Foundation Grant 100014_146535 For more information about this study, please contact: Stephen Aichele at stephen.aichele@unige.ch. The article abstract is available online: http://pss.sagepub.com/content/early/2016/02/24/0956797615626906.abstract For a copy of the article "Think Fast, Feel Fine, Live Long: A 29-Year Study of Cognition, Health, and Survival in Middle-Aged and Older Adults" and access to other Psychological Science research findings, please contact Anna Mikulak at 202-293-9300 or amikulak@psychologicalscience.org. CHICAGO -- The Medicare "opt-out" rule that allows anesthesia to be administered without physician supervision does not increase patient access to anesthesia care, according to a study recently published online in Anesthesia and Analgesia. The study shows that overall, opt-out states experienced a lower growth in anesthesia cases (anesthesia utilization rates) compared with non-opt-out states, suggesting that opt-out is not associated with an increase in access to anesthesia care. "The decision over whether to 'opt out' remains contentious in many states," said Eric Sun, M.D., Ph.D., study author and instructor in the Department of Anesthesiology, Perioperative and Pain Medicine at the Stanford School of Medicine, Stanford, California. "Previous studies have attempted to examine patient outcomes in opt-out states, but none has investigated whether opting out of the federal rule improved access to care. This study shows that 'opt-out' alone is not the silver bullet to improving access." Since 2001, 17 state governors have exercised the option to opt-out of a federal requirement that physicians supervise the administration of anesthesia by nurse anesthetists, citing increased patient access to anesthesia care as the rational for the decision. In the study, investigators took the number of Medicare fee-for-service claims and divided it by the population aged 65 and older (U.S. Census Bureau) to get the "anesthesia utilization rate." Opt-out states included in this analysis were organized into groups based on opt-out year: Group 1-Iowa (2001); Group 2-Idaho, Minnesota, Nebraska, New Hampshire and New Mexico (2002); Group 3-Alaska, Kansas, Oregon and Washington (2003); Group 5- Wisconsin and South Dakota (2005); and Group 6-California (2009). Investigators then calculated the anesthesia utilization rate for the three years before and three years after opt-out and compared it to the anesthesia utilization rate for non-opt-out states in the same time period. For Group 1, the average anesthesia utilization rate for non-opt-out states increased 32 percent compared to the opt-out state's 16 percent increase. Group 2 showed an increase of 26 percent for non-opt-out-states compared to the opt-out states' 18 percent increase. Group 3 increased 10 percent in non-opt-out states, while opt-out states increased seven percent. For Group 5, the rate increased -5 percent in non-opt-out states compared to -9 percent in opt-out states. Finally, Group 6 was the only group to show a slight increase in the opt-out state with an increase of 5 percent compared to the non-opt-out states' increase of 4 percent. The analysis included 13 of the 17 opt-out states. The remaining four were excluded from the analysis for the following reasons: Kentucky opted out in 2012 and there was not enough data for it to be included. Colorado's opt-out rule was not consistently applied across the state. Montana opted out in 2004, reversed the decision in early 2005 and then restored its opt-out status in mid-2005. North and South Dakota were excluded because the data for both states were combined until 2007. ### The study, "In the United States, 'Opt-out' States Show No Increase in Access to Anesthesia Services for Medicare Beneficiaries Compared with Non-opt-out States," was funded by the American Society of Anesthesiologists. The American Society of Anesthesiologists Founded in 1905, the American Society of Anesthesiologists (ASA) is an educational, research and scientific society with more than 52,000 members organized to raise and maintain the standards of the medical practice of anesthesiology. ASA is committed to ensuring physician anesthesiologists evaluate and supervise the medical care of patients before, during and after surgery to provide the highest quality and safest care every patient deserves. For more information on the field of anesthesiology, visit the American Society of Anesthesiologists online at asahq.org. To learn more about the role physician anesthesiologists play in ensuring patient safety, visit asahq.org/WhenSecondsCount. CAMBRIDGE, MA, February 29, 2016 - In a paper published in Nature Biotechnology, researchers from the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard and the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute describe a new method that dramatically simplifies an arduous experimental process in early drug discovery. Their method, called PRISM, uses a molecular barcoding system to test potential drug compounds on cancer and other cell lines at an unprecedented scale and speed. The system allows for pooling and testing of multiple cell lines simultaneously, and promises to accelerate the search for targeted therapies by better representing the broad genetic diversity of disease. "Before, you could in principle test chemical compounds of interest against hundreds of cell lines, but it would require a lab member going to a freezer, taking out hundreds of vials--one for each cell line--and setting up hundreds of tissue culture plates. Then, every time you wanted to modify the compound a little and test it again across cell lines, it would mean going back to the freezer," explains Todd Golub, chief scientific officer at the Broad and senior author of the paper. "PRISM makes it far less cumbersome to get the data you need from a panel of cell lines." PRISM involves the introduction of trackable "barcodes" that are integrated into the genetic makeup of each cell line being studied. The barcodes are 24 DNA nucleotides in length. With four different nucleotides comprising our genetic code (adenine, guanine, cytosine, and thymine), the barcodes are long enough to be distinct from other stretches of DNA in the genome, and also allow for the generation of a seemingly limitless number of codes. Once the barcodes have been introduced into individual cell lines, multiple lines can be mixed together as a "pool" that can then be exposed to a chemical compound. At the end of the experiment, counting the numbers of each barcode serves as a readout that reveals how many cells from each cell line survived exposure to the compound. PRISM's pooling potential helps address a persistent problem in cancer research: how to efficiently test potential drugs in a way that reflects the genetic diversity of a disease like cancer. Tumors are notoriously heterogeneous--the product of genetic mutations that may be common in a particular type of cancer, or exceedingly rare. PRISM allows researchers to test a chemical compound against tens or hundreds of cell lines, each containing distinct mutations, all in one go. "One of the perennial challenges in cancer research has been finding an approach to drug discovery that is complex enough to represent cancer, but simple enough to enable studies at higher scale than has been feasible in the lab," says first author Channing Yu, a medical oncologist and postdoctoral researcher in Golub's lab at Dana-Farber and the Broad. "We created the PRISM method specifically to address this problem." Understanding which cancer cell lines (and, by extension, which mutations) might respond to a specific compound or drug has profound implications for targeted therapy. Targeting each patient's particular form of cancer is a goal of an increasingly popular clinical model called "precision medicine," which aims to tailor treatment for each patient. At the heart of precision medicine is the recognition that, if the biology underlying a condition varies among patients, the response to therapeutics, too, will vary. "In the area of oncology, but even more generally, embracing the genetic diversity of disease is really important," says Golub, who is also director of the Broad's Cancer Program, the Charles A. Dana Investigator in Human Cancer Genetics at Dana-Farber, professor of pediatrics at Harvard Medical School, and a Howard Hughes Medical Institute investigator. "There is real power in being able to understand how potential drugs work in the context of the molecular diversity of the disease. PRISM lowers the barrier to studying this genetic complexity; it offers a wider lens with which to view and understand the activity of a compound across cancer types." The expansion of genetic diversity in the earliest phases of drug discovery may permit the identification of new cancer targets. The researchers note that PRISM makes it easier to profile a broad range of cancers--not only rare cancers, but also cancers from populations whose genetics are traditionally underrepresented in research studies. The customizable design of the PRISM method also permits its implementation in different settings. The method can be adapted for use in large genome centers or small academic laboratories. It can be used to study a particular chemical compound of interest in great depth, or in a broader screen at the starting point of a drug discovery effort. The number of cell lines can also vary depending on the experiment being implemented; one could test a handful of cell lines or hundreds of them. "This method is modular and can be used in many different types of experiments. Whether the scale of the experiment is very small or extremely large, PRISM offers the potential to simplify it and make it more feasible," says Yu, who is also an instructor in medicine at Harvard Medical School. Golub's team used a bead hybridization barcode readout system, which had already been "battle-tested" in work with DNA, RNA, and proteins, as a basis for the method. In a discovery screen profiling 102 cell lines against 8,400 compounds, PRISM led the researchers to a specific novel compound, BRD-7880; the specific action against cell lines in the panel rapidly led them to discover that this compound worked by inhibiting aurora kinase B, an enzyme involved in cell division that is abnormally regulated in several cancers. The system enabled the team to read up to 500 barcodes at once, but the researchers say batch sizes can vary. Additionally, barcodes could be read out using next-generation genome sequencing techniques. Beyond the expansion of the collection of barcoded cell lines for testing larger panels of compounds, next steps will include determining whether PRISM can be used to study the complex interactions between different cell types found within tumors, or to study tumor evolution during cancer development or after cancer treatment. ### The work was supported by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Genomics Based Drug Discovery Consortium, the National Cancer Institute Integrative Cancer Biology Program, the Howard Hughes Medical Institute, the Claudia Adams Barr Program in Cancer Research Innovative Basic Science Research Program, the American Society of Clinical Oncology Conquer Cancer Foundation Young Investigator Award, and the Prostate Cancer Foundation. About the Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard The Eli and Edythe L. Broad Institute of MIT and Harvard was launched in 2004 to empower this generation of creative scientists to transform medicine. The Broad Institute seeks to describe all the molecular components of life and their connections; discover the molecular basis of major human diseases; develop effective new approaches to diagnostics and therapeutics; and disseminate discoveries, tools, methods, and data openly to the entire scientific community. Founded by MIT, Harvard, and its affiliated hospitals, and the visionary Los Angeles philanthropists Eli and Edythe L. Broad, the Broad Institute includes faculty, professional staff, and students from throughout the MIT and Harvard biomedical research communities and beyond, with collaborations spanning over a hundred private and public institutions in more than 40 countries worldwide. For further information about the Broad Institute, go to http://www.broadinstitute.org. Paper cited: Yu, C. et al. "High-throughput identification of specific cancer vulnerabilities in mixtures of barcoded tumor cell lines using PRISM." Nature Biotechnology. Online February 29, 2016. DOI: 10.1038/nbt.3460 Researchers have discovered that the most efficacious drugs to treat irregular heartbeats may work because they alter the cell membrane, affecting the function of multiple proteins at once WASHINGTON D.C., February 29, 2016 - If you suffer from atrial fibrillation (AF) -- a condition where disorganized electrical signals cause the heart's upper chambers to contract quickly and irregularly -- your doctor may prescribe an antiarrhythmic drug. While these drugs have long been prescribed for AF, which has been linked to an increased risk of stroke, chest pains and even heart failure, their complete mechanisms for restoring action and mitigating these risks have been unclear. Now, researchers from the Weill Cornell Medical College in New York and the University of Arkansas have new insight into how these drugs work. They tested two types of antiarrhythmic drugs: multi-target drugs, which alter the function of many different cell proteins at once, and single-target drugs, which are designed to affect only one protein. The researchers found that the multi-target drugs, which are the most commonly prescribed drugs to treat AF and are considered the most efficacious, may work by changing properties of the cell membrane, like elasticity, curvature and thickness. Generating and propagating the electrical impulse that controls heartbeat requires a delicate balance in activities of multiple membrane-embedded proteins. The multiple signaling pathways involved in heartbeat could explain why multi-target drugs could be particularly beneficial in treating conditions such as AF and why the cell membrane may play a key role in their regulation, said Radda Rusinova, a researcher in the Department of Physiology and Biophysics at Weill Cornell Medical College in New York. Amiodarone, one of the multi-target drugs that Rusinova and her colleagues tested, was initially classified as an antiarrhythmic that prolongs repolarization, which is a "resetting" of the electrical potential across a cell membrane before it can transmit another electrical signal. But other modes of action for the drug were quickly discovered, Rusinova said, and it is now known that amiodarone alters the function of numerous membrane proteins, with no clear mechanism for how it does so. Rusinova and her colleagues found evidence that a previously unknown membrane-mediated mechanism may be involved in the way the drug changes function of cell membrane-embedded proteins. The researchers used a simplified lipid bilayer with a class of proteins called gramicidin channels embedded in it as a model cell membrane. The gramicidins act as a sort of spy for the researchers. By observing the activity of the gramicidins, the researchers can uncover information about the state of the bilayer. By using the gramicidin "spies," Rusinova and her colleagues found that amiodarone, along with another multi-target antiarrhythmic drug called dronedarone, increase the elasticity of the bilayer. The elasticity of the bilayer, in turn, affects the function of the proteins embedded within it, similar to the way a changing sea affects all the boats that float on it. Importantly, the researchers found that this bilayer change occurred within the same range of concentrations of the drug known to be therapeutic. For the single-target antiarrhythmic drugs the team tested, one had almost no effect on the bilayer properties and the other only had an effect at concentrations outside the therapeutic range. "The key conclusion of this work is that the contribution of bilayer effects on a drug's therapeutic profile is not trivial and has to be carefully examined," Rusinova said. Rusinova notes the finding could have implications beyond antiarrhythmic drugs. "Our work offers a general mechanism for how drugs alter the function of multiple membrane proteins: drug-induced alterations in lipid bilayer properties result in general changes in membrane protein function." The poster, "A general mechanism for drug promiscuity: Studies with amiodarone and other antiarrhythmics," by Radda Rusinova, Roger E. Koeppe II and Olaf S. Andersen will be in a poster session starting at 1:45 p.m. PT on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016 in the West Hall of the Los Angeles Convention Center. ABSTRACT: http://tinyurl.com/hlpw859 ### ABOUT THE MEETING Each year, the Biophysical Society Annual Meeting brings together more than 6,500 researchers working in the multidisciplinary fields representing biophysics. With more than 3,600 poster presentations, over 200 exhibits, and more than 20 symposia, the BPS Annual Meeting is the largest meeting of biophysicists in the world. Despite its size, the meeting retains its small-meeting flavor through its subgroup symposia, platform sessions, social activities and committee programs. The 60th Annual Meeting will be held at the Los Angeles Convention Center. PRESS REGISTRATION The Biophysical Society invites professional journalists, freelance science writers and public information officers to attend its Annual Meeting free of charge. For press registration, contact Ellen Weiss or the media line at the American Institute of Physics at or 301-209-3090. NEWS RELEASES Embargoed press releases describing in detail some of the breakthroughs to be discussed at the meeting are available on Eurekalert, Newswise and Alpha Galileo or by contacting the media line at the American Institute of Physics at or 301-209-3090. QUICK LINKS Main Meeting Page: http://tinyurl.com/hewekyj Symposia: http://tinyurl.com/h7lnk4p Itinerary planner: http://tinyurl.com/hslnx3p ABOUT THE SOCIETY The Biophysical Society, founded in 1958, is a professional, scientific Society established to encourage development and dissemination of knowledge in biophysics. The Society promotes growth in this expanding field through its annual meeting, monthly journal, and committee and outreach activities. Its 9,000 members are located throughout the U.S. and the world, where they teach and conduct research in colleges, universities, laboratories, government agencies, and industry. For more information on the Society, or the 2016 Annual Meeting, visit http://www.biophysics.org It turns out that peptide toxins isolated from the venom of some animals -- such as the Peruvian green velvet tarantula -- can be beneficial when used to target neural receptors to reduce the sensation of pain. WASHINGTON, D.C., Feb. 28, 2016 -- When venom from animals such as spiders and snakes is injected via a bite or harpoon, the cocktail of toxins delivered to its victim tends to cause serious reactions that, if untreated, can be lethal. But even venom has a therapeutic upside: Individual peptide toxins are being tapped to target receptors in the brain to potentially serve as painkillers. Millions of people live with chronic and neuropathic pain, in large part because current treatments often provide limited pain relief, have a heavy profile of soporific side effects and can be extremely addictive. So researchers around the globe are chasing down potential new therapeutic agents and working to gain a better understanding of how molecules with painkiller activity function. This will lead to alternative painkillers -- and possibly improve the quality of life for people who suffer from chronic pain. Our group is specifically interested in understanding the mode of action of this toxin to gain information that can guide us in the design and optimization of novel pain therapeutics, said Sonia Troeira Henriques, senior research officer at the University of Queenslands Institute for Molecular Bioscience. Her recent work was published in the Biophysical Journal on Feb. 16, 2016. How does ProTx-II work? It binds to the pain receptor located within the membrane of neuronal cells, but the precise peptide-receptor binding site and the importance of the cell membrane in the inhibitory activity of ProTx-II is unknown, explained Henriques. So the group zeroed in on its structure-activity relationship by exploring the structure, the membrane-binding properties, and the inhibitory activity of ProTx-II and a series of analogues, she added. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy enables 3-D characterization of the structure of this peptide, which allows the group to explore whether its important for its ability to inhibit the pain receptor. They also use surface plasmon resonance and fluorescence methodologies, as well as molecular simulations, to further characterize the interactions between the peptide and the neuronal cell membrane and to identify the molecular properties of the peptide involved in the interaction and inhibition with the pain receptor. Our results show that the cell membrane plays an important role in the ability of ProTx-II to inhibit the pain receptor. In particular, the neuronal cell membranes attract the peptide to the neurons, increase its concentration close to the pain receptors, and lock the peptide in the right orientation to maximize its interaction with the target, said Henriques. The groups work is the first to describe the importance of the membrane-binding properties of ProTx-II for its potency as an inhibitor of Nav 1.7, an important pain receptor. Until now, studies characterizing the inhibitory activity of venom toxins have ignored the potential role of the cell membrane in their potency and activity, she noted. Beyond Nav 1.7, other voltage-gated ion channels are located at the cell membrane and involved in a range of physiological processes such as muscle and nerve relaxation, regulation of blood pressure, and sensory transduction, Henriques pointed out. Their faulty activity is, however, associated with several disorders, so other ion channels are actively being pursued as drug targets for the treatment of neuromuscular disease, neurological disorders, and inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Based on the groups findings, theyre now designing new toxins with greater affinity for the cell membrane and fewer side effects. Our work creates an opportunity to explore the importance of the cell membrane in the activity of peptide toxins that target other voltage-gated ion channels involved in important disorders, said Henriques. The article, Structure-Activity Relationship Studies Reveal that the Spider Toxin Protx-II has Unusual Membrane-Binding Properties and Inhibits NAV1.7 Channel at the Membrane Surface is authored by Sonia Troeira Henriques, David J. Craik and Christina I. Schroeder, and was published in the Biophysics Journal on Feb. 16, 2016. It can be accessed at http://www.cell.com/biophysj/fulltext/S0006-3495%2815%2901660-4. ### ABOUT THE SOCIETY The Biophysical Society, founded in 1958, is a professional, scientific Society established to encourage development and dissemination of knowledge in biophysics. The Society promotes growth in this expanding field through its annual meeting, monthly journal, and committee and outreach activities. Its 9,000 members are located throughout the U.S. and the world, where they teach and conduct research in colleges, universities, laboratories, government agencies, and industry. For more information on the Society visit http://www.biophysics.org For men with low-grade prostate cancer, active surveillance -- monitoring with the option to treat if the cancer worsens -- is the most common management strategy at a regional diagnostic centre in Ottawa, Ontario, according to new research in CMAJ (Canadian Medical Association Journal) "These findings represent a substantial paradigm shift in the management of low-grade prostate cancer and may represent an important reduction in the potential harm associated with overtreatment of screening-detected cancers," writes Dr. Rodney Breau, a surgical oncologist at The Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario, with coauthors. Active surveillance combines close monitoring with periodic prostate-specific antigen (PSA) measurements, digital rectal exams and biopsies. If the cancer worsens, the physician will discuss appropriate treatments with the patient. Low-grade prostate cancer makes up between 40% and 50% of all newly diagnosed cancers. Patients with these cancers are at low risk of cancer-related death but may experience adverse effects of treatment. Active surveillance is an approach for which treatment may be delayed or completely avoided. Screening for prostate cancer is controversial, with some groups recommending against screening because of the substantial risk of over-detection and over-treatment. There are few data detailing the use of active surveillance in clinical practice. The study included 477 men with low-grade cancer referred to the Ottawa Regional Prostate Cancer Assessment Clinic between 2008 and 2013. Of those, 210 (44%) were managed with active surveillance and 244 (51%) were treated immediately for prostate cancer. The authors observed an increase in the use of active surveillance from 32% in 2008 to 67% in 2013. Patients who were older than 70 and who had multiple health issues were more likely to receive active surveillance than younger men. Of the patients managed with active surveillance, 62 (30%) were eventually treated because of a change in their disease status. After five years of follow-up, about 59% of patients were still being managed by active surveillance. "Our results reinforce the concept that patient preference or anxiety does not appear to be the major factor driving progression to treatment. In the Canadian context, it seems that active surveillance is a feasible management approach that patients and physicians are willing to accept," state the authors. CMAJ published prostate cancer screening guidelines http://www.cmaj.ca/content/186/16/1225 from the Canadian Task for on Preventive Health Care in late 2014. ### Electrons can extend our view of microscopic objects well beyond what's possible with visible light--all the way to the atomic scale. A popular method in electron microscopy for looking at tough, resilient materials in atomic detail is called STEM, or scanning transmission electron microscopy, but the highly-focused beam of electrons used in STEM can also easily destroy delicate samples. This is why using electrons to image biological or other organic compounds, such as chemical mixes that include lithium--a light metal that is a popular element in next-generation battery research--requires a very low electron dose. Scientists at the Department of Energy'sc Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (Berkeley Lab) have developed a new imaging technique, tested on samples of nanoscale gold and carbon, that greatly improves images of light elements using fewer electrons. The newly demonstrated technique, dubbed MIDI-STEM, for matched illumination and detector interferometry STEM, combines STEM with an optical device called a phase plate that modifies the alternating peak-to-trough, wave-like properties (called the phase) of the electron beam. This phase plate modifies the electron beam in a way that allows subtle changes in a material to be measured, even revealing materials that would be invisible in traditional STEM imaging. Another electron-based method, which researchers use to determine the detailed structure of delicate, frozen biological samples, is called cryo-electron microscopy, or cryo-EM. While single-particle cryo-EM is a powerful tool--it was named as science journal Nature's 2015 Method of the Year --it typically requires taking an average over many identical samples to be effective. Cryo-EM is generally not useful for studying samples with a mixture of heavy elements (for example, most types of metals) and light elements like oxygen and carbon. "The MIDI-STEM method provides hope for seeing structures with a mixture of heavy and light elements, even when they are bunched closely together," said Colin Ophus, a project scientist at Berkeley Lab's Molecular Foundry and lead author of a study, published Feb. 29 in Nature Communications, that details this method. If you take a heavy-element nanoparticle and add molecules to give it a specific function, conventional techniques don't provide an easy, clear way to see the areas where the nanoparticle and added molecules meet. "How are they aligned? How are they oriented?" Ophus asked. "There are so many questions about these systems, and because there wasn't a way to see them, we couldn't directly answer them." While traditional STEM is effective for "hard" samples that can stand up to intense electron beams, and cryo-EM can image biological samples, "We can do both at once" with the MIDI-STEM technique, said Peter Ercius, a Berkeley Lab staff scientist at the Molecular Foundry and co-author of the study. The phase plate in the MIDI-STEM technique allows a direct measure of the phase of electrons that are weakly scattered as they interact with light elements in the sample. These measurements are then used to construct so-called phase-contrast images of the elements. Without this phase information, the high-resolution images of these elements would not be possible. In this study, the researchers combined phase plate technology with one of the world's highest resolution STEMs, at Berkeley Lab's Molecular Foundry, and a high-speed electron detector. They produced images of samples of crystalline gold nanoparticles, which measured several nanometers across, and the super-thin film of amorphous carbon that the particles sat on. They also performed computer simulations that validated what they saw in the experiment. The phase plate technology was developed as part of a Berkeley Lab Laboratory Directed Research and Development grant in collaboration with Ben McMorran at University of Oregon. The MIDI-STEM technique could prove particularly useful for directly viewing nanoscale objects with a mixture of heavy and light materials, such as some battery and energy-harvesting materials, that are otherwise difficult to view together at atomic resolution. It also might be useful in revealing new details about important two-dimensional proteins, called S-layer proteins, that could serve as foundations for engineered nanostructures but are challenging to study in atomic detail using other techniques. In the future, a faster, more sensitive electron detector could allow researchers to study even more delicate samples at improved resolution by exposing them to fewer electrons per image. "If you can lower the electron dose you can tilt beam-sensitive samples into many orientations and reconstruct the sample in 3-D, like a medical CT scan. There are also data issues that need to be addressed," Ercius said, as faster detectors will generate huge amounts of data. Another goal is to make the technique more "plug-and-play," so it is broadly accessible to other scientists. ### Berkeley Lab's Molecular Foundry is a DOE Office of Science User Facility. Researchers from the University of Oregon, Gatan Inc. and Ulm University in Germany also participated in the study. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory addresses the world's most urgent scientific challenges by advancing sustainable energy, protecting human health, creating new materials, and revealing the origin and fate of the universe. Founded in 1931, Berkeley Lab's scientific expertise has been recognized with 13 Nobel prizes. The University of California manages Berkeley Lab for the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science. For more, visit http://www.lbl.gov/. The DOE Office of Science is the single largest supporter of basic research in the physical sciences in the United States and is working to address some of the most pressing challenges of our time. For more information, please visit http://science.energy.gov. A multi-disciplinary team from James Cook University has been busy unlocking the secrets of the Papuan Black Bass, one of the world's toughest sportfish. The group is working in West New Britain province in Papua New Guinea, looking to develop an eco-tourism industry around the fish. Two new studies from the scientists say that although the fish is a mystery, with almost nothing known about it, there may be ways to commercialise it that benefit local communities. The team brought together researchers from diverse fields including fisheries science, ecosystem ecology, natural resource management, governance, tourism, economics, business management, and social science. JCU's Dr Ronnie Baker said the paper by the group in the Fish and Fisheries journal was a roadmap for others looking to do the same thing. "It's the first paper on how sportfishing tourism can work in developing countries for the benefit of the people and see economic benefits go directly to undeveloped areas," he said. Dr Baker said many places with great sportfishing potential were isolated areas where local people retained effective control over the land and resources, which was both an opportunity and a challenge, and underlined the most basic lesson the group had learned. "In these places, if the local people are not on board and won't benefit - it won't work," he said. The companion paper by the group in the Fisheries Management and Ecology journal found only patchy records on almost all aspects of the Black Bass' biology and ecology, with even the extent of its global distribution uncertain. Professor Marcus Sheaves, the project leader, said the first step in implementing an effective fisheries management strategy would be to fill in the gaps in knowledge about the fish. "Our ongoing project is providing the PNG government with the critical knowledge needed to sustainably manage and develop a sportfishery into the future," he said. Dr Amy Diedrich, the social science leader of the project, said the multi-disciplinary nature of the collaboration was key. "For PNG to realise the goal of a sportfishing industry providing sustainable alternative livelihoods and promoting conservation, it is critical to mesh together fisheries ecology with a clear understanding of the economic and social benefits and consequences of its development." The team works in partnership with the Papua New Guinea National Fisheries Authority (NFA) and is supported by the Australian Centre for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR). The project is expected to run for another ten years. ### Newark College of Engineering (NCE) at New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) will celebrate its continued commitment to engineering education advancement at the 18th annual Salute to Engineering Excellence March 9, 2016, 6-9 p.m. at the Newark Museum. Proceeds from the event will benefit the NCE Dean's Fund. "The Newark College of Engineering looks forward to hosting many of its alumni and friends. This is an opportunity for NCE to reflect on its positive impact on the lives of graduates, the community and the profession," said NCE Dean Moshe Kam. "The event also provides opportunities to network, to meet the recipients of our student awards and to recommit to the expansion, reach and impact of NCE and NJIT." The 2016 NCE Outstanding Alumnus Award will be presented to Peter J. Abitante '90, vice president of reconstructive implant product development at Stryker Orthopaedics, and Brian G. Kiernan '70, retired vice president and chief scientist at Interdigital Corporation, LLC. In his current role, Abitante, of Upper Saddle River, is responsible for the development of Stryker's hip and knee implants and instruments. He joined Osteonics Corp. in 1993 as a senior design engineer, where he worked on total knee systems, followed by a series of roles of increasing responsibility in product development and marketing for total knee and total hip product lines. He received a B.S. in civil industrial engineering from NCE in 1990 and an M.S in engineering management from Stevens Institute of Technology in 1996. During his tenure at Interdigital, Kiernan, of Downington, Pennsylvania, was directly responsible for the company's worldwide industry standards activities and aided in the development of new market, product and technology initiatives. In this capacity, he provided strategic technical and marketing support to InterDigital's sales, marketing and business development efforts as well as the company's worldwide patent and licensing programs. As a charter member of the NJIT Interdisciplinary Design Studio (IDS) External Advisory Board, Kiernan has co-sponsored a small group of NJIT undergraduate students for summer research that helps them to develop entrepreneurial skills. He received a B.S.in electrical engineering from Newark College of Engineering in 1970, and an M.S. in management science/operations research from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Each year, NCE recognizes an outstanding industry partner for their uniquely supportive relationship with NJIT. The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) will receive the 2016 Outstanding Industry Partnership Award. Abitante and Kiernan will join the ranks of accomplished alumni who have been honored by NCE for their achievements. In 2015, Theodore D. Cassera '72, of Bowman Consulting, and Arnold M. Peskin '65, retired head of the Information Technology Division and senior scientist at the Brookhaven National Laboratory, received the NCE Outstanding Alumnus Award. "NCE has a proud tradition of producing graduate engineers that have greatly contributed to industry and academia," said Robert Cohen, chair of the NCE Board of Visitors. "Many of our alumni and industry partners demonstrate the best the college has to offer. The Salute event allows us to give them the recognition they deserve and have earned." Faculty, staff and student honorees reflect the diversity of the NJIT community Faculty, staff and student honorees reflect the diversity of the NJIT community and demonstrate an impressive range of engineering achievement. The students, for example, are acknowledged for their contributions to such areas as innovative design, research and peer mentorship. Michelle Vazquez, Sohui Park, and Monica Torralba, students in the Otto H. York Department of Chemical, Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering, will receive the Saul K. Fenster Innovation in Design Award for their leadership of the Chem-E Car Team, which designed, fabricated, and built a unique auto system for entry into the American Institute of Chemical Engineers' annual competition. The Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering's Bo Zhang will be recognized with the NCE Outstanding Graduate Student Award for his many accomplishments, including his industry-funded dissertation research on how aerosol droplets produced by coughing affect disease transmission. Tao Han '15, now a tenure-track assistant professor at the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and the author of more than 20 research papers, will be acknowledged with the NCE Outstanding Doctoral Student Dissertation Award for his excellence in both teaching and research in the Helen and John C. Hartmann Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. Other students receiving recognition include Albert Dorman Honors College Scholar Kimberly Lam, who has been actively involved in numerous volunteer and leadership roles at NJIT, and has served as a role model for women engineers as both a board member of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) and president of the NJIT SWE section. Lam, a student in the Department of Mechanical and Industrial Engineering, is the recipient of the Madame Mau Outstanding Female Engineering Student Award. She also has been named Outstanding Senior Overall, as well as Departmental Outstanding Senior along with Kevin Alvernaz from the John A. Reif, Jr. Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering; Mohammed Elassa from the Department of Biomedical Engineering; Nathanael Hildebrand from the Department of Engineering Technology; Hathija Noor, from the Otto H. York Department of Chemical, Biological and Pharmaceutical Engineering; and Philip Zurek from the Helen and John C. Hartmann Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering. ### For more information on the 2016 NCE Salute to Excellence, contact Angela Vega-Irvin at 973-596-3223 or visit nce.njit.edu/events/excellence2016. About NJIT One of the nation's leading public technological universities, New Jersey Institute of Technology (NJIT) is a top-tier research university that prepares students to become leaders in the technology-dependent economy of the 21st century. NJIT's multidisciplinary curriculum and computing-intensive approach to education provide technological proficiency, business acumen and leadership skills. With an enrollment of more than 11,300 graduate and undergraduate students, NJIT offers small-campus intimacy with the resources of a major public research university. NJIT is a global leader in such fields as solar research, nanotechnology, resilient design, tissue engineering and cybersecurity, in addition to others. NJIT ranks fifth among U.S. polytechnic universities in research expenditures, topping $110 million, and is among the top 1 percent of public colleges and universities in return on educational investment, according to Payscale.com. Two thirds of urban farmers have a social mission that goes beyond food production and profits, finds new research led by NYU Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development. The study, published in the British Food Journal, shows that three of the four top reasons farmers grow in urban areas - food security, education, community building, and producing food for the market - have social motivations. As urban populations grow in the United States, farming in cities is becoming more common. While food entrepreneurs seek to make money through urban farming, many urban farms are concerned with factors beyond food production, and have incorporated social goals into their missions. These missions align with a larger social movement in food - the "good food movement" - that focuses on where food comes from, who grows it, and how it's grown. "Given the limited ability of urban farms in terms of food production, the social mission of urban farms arises as a possible explanation for the recent growth," said study author Carolyn Dimitri, associate professor of food studies at NYU Steinhardt. In their study, Dimitri and her colleagues identified and analyzed the social missions of urban farms in the United States, and explored differences and similarities among farms with varying missions. They analyzed data collected from a national survey of 370 urban farmers. Thirty-five questions, covering the 2012 farm year, addressed food production and marketing practices, risks and challenges, information and technical assistance needs, farm size and location, age of primary farmer, and farm characteristics. The researchers found that food production is an essential part of the mission for all urban farms, but approximately two thirds of farmers surveyed also expressed a social mission. These social missions are primarily related to food security, education, and community building. "The mission statements also indicate a blurring of the profit motive and social goals, suggesting many farms are a form of social entrepreneurship," said Dimitri. "For urban agriculture business, food is the vehicle used to attain the social goals of improving life for communities, residents, and consumers." The survey showed that all urban farms, regardless of their mission, are relatively small and face similar challenges in terms of providing the primary farmer with a living. The bulk of the farms, regardless of their mission, have sales below $10,000 per year, and annual sales are not necessarily aligned with the farm's profit-drive or socially-motivated mission. In addition, the survey found that farms with explicit social missions, relative to those with a strict market orientation, donate a higher share of food from their farm and are less likely to own farmland. Urban farms located in lower income areas are more likely to have social goals related to building community or improving security food security. One third of urban farmers surveyed operate farms as nonprofits, shifting the farmers' financial focus from food sales to finding donations and grants. "The non-profit model may be an ideal business model for long-term economic stability of socially-minded urban farms," Dimitri said. "Even if they operate at a loss while scaling up production and providing affordable food to local residents, grants may make it possible to cover shortfalls until farms are self-sufficient." The researchers concluded that the long-term viability of urban farming is related to three factors: whether farmers can earn high enough incomes to maintain urban lifestyles; whether farms can develop business models that produce long-term economic sustainability; and how successful socially-minded urban farms are in meeting their social goals. ### In addition to Dimitri, study authors include Lydia Oberholtzer of Penn State University and Andy Pressman of the National Center for Appropriate Technology's National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service (ATTRA). The research was funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture (NIFA Award 2012-68006-30177). About the Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development (@nyusteinhardt) Located in the heart of Greenwich Village, NYU's Steinhardt School of Culture, Education, and Human Development prepares students for careers in the arts, education, health, media, and psychology. Since its founding in 1890, the Steinhardt School's mission has been to expand human capacity through public service, global collaboration, research, scholarship, and practice. To learn more about NYU Steinhardt, visit steinhardt.nyu.edu. Of the approximately 24,000 Canadians diagnosed with prostate cancer each year, about half have a slow-growing form that poses little risk to their health. A new study from The Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa shows that men with these slow-growing tumours are increasingly avoiding unnecessary and potentially harmful treatment in favour of an approach called active surveillance -- monitoring the cancer with regular tests and treating it only if it changes to a higher risk form. This kind of surveillance for low risk prostate cancer has recently been recommended by Cancer Care Ontario. This paper, published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, is the first comprehensive study to describe how often surveillance is being performed in Canada. The research team reviewed the medical records of 477 men with low-grade prostate cancer referred to The Ottawa Hospital's Ages Cancer Assessment Clinic between 2008 and 2013. They found that the number of patients under active surveillance increased dramatically from 32 percent in 2008 to 68 percent in 2013. They also found that after five years of follow-up, about 59% of the patients under active surveillance were still being managed that way. "Recent data suggest that low-grade prostate cancer can grow very slowly, and therefore many patients likely don't need treatment at all," said Dr. Rodney Breau, senior author of the study and a prostate cancer surgeon and epidemiologist at The Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa. "Some men can go for years, or maybe their entire lives, without the cancer spreading. If we monitor patients closely, we can still treat the cancer if it becomes higher risk. If the cancer doesn't progress, they can avoid unnecessary surgery, radiation and other therapies, which can have side effects including incontinence, impotence and bowel problems." One man who was able to avoid this kind of unnecessary treatment is Stephen Wilson, a 56-year-old dairy plant manager in Winchester, Ontario. When he was diagnosed with low-grade prostate cancer in December 2012, both his oncologist in Cornwall and Dr. Breau recommended that he go on active surveillance. "Whenever you hear the 'c' word, panic sets in," said Wilson. "You have to live with the notion that it's there, but I have a background in science which allowed me do that without any problems. Now it's been three years and I'm good; active surveillance has been the right choice for me." Dr. Breau notes that the study confirms that being diagnosed with prostate cancer does not necessarily mean a man will need treatment. This means that doctors can maintain the benefits of prostate cancer screening while reducing a potential harm - the overtreatment of slow-growing tumours. In addition, the study found that among the patients who received treatment, almost all did so because of a change in their cancer, not because of anxiety. The researchers also note that the active surveillance rate observed in the study is much higher than estimated surveillance rates during the same time period in the United States. "Many patients are now avoiding unnecessary treatment, and this represents a major paradigm shift in the management of this disease," said lead author Dr. Octav Cristea, a urology resident at The Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa. "With more studies like ours coming out, I hope that active surveillance will become the global standard for patients with low-grade prostate cancer." ### Full reference: "Active Surveillance in Canadian Men Diagnosed with Low Grade Prostate Cancer." CMAJ.Octav Cristea, Luke T. Lavallee, Joshua Montroy, Andrew Stokl, Sonya Cnossen, Ranjeeta Mallick, Dean Fergusson, Franco Momoli, Illias Cagiannos, Christopher Morash, Rodney H. Breau. Feb. 29, 2016. Funders: This study did not have dedicated funding. However, Dr. Breau is supported by a Research Chair in Urologic Oncology funded by The Ottawa Hospital Foundation. Video: Dr. Breau speaking about what motivates his research. About The Ottawa Hospital: The Ottawa Hospital is one of Canada's largest learning and research hospitals with over 1,100 beds, approximately 12,000 staff and an annual budget of over $1.2 billion. Our focus on research and learning helps us develop new and innovative ways to treat patients and improve care. As a multi-campus hospital, affiliated with the University of Ottawa, we deliver specialized care to the Eastern Ontario region, but our techniques and research discoveries are adopted around the world. We engage the community at all levels to support our vision for better patient care. See http://www.ohri.ca for more information about research at The Ottawa Hospital. About the University of Ottawa: The University of Ottawa is home to over 50,000 students, faculty and staff, who live, work and study in both French and English. Our campus is a crossroads of cultures and ideas, where bold minds come together to inspire game-changing ideas. We are one of Canada's top 10 research universities -- our professors and researchers explore new approaches to today's challenges. One of a handful of Canadian universities ranked among the top 200 in the world, we attract exceptional thinkers and welcome diverse perspectives from across the globe. http://www.uottawa.ca Media Contact: Amelia Buchanan Senior Communication Specialist ambuchanan@ohri.ca Office: 613-798-5555 x 73687; Cell: 613-297-8315 Ottawa Hospital Research Institute Today, the ICES Journal of Marine Science publishes a special issue on ocean acidification, the most-studied single topic in marine science. IJMS Editor-in-Chief Howard Browman opens the issue by calling for a higher level of academic scepticism to be applied to the body of work on ocean acidification. He states that, "...the majority of the literature on ocean acidification report negative effects of CO2 on organisms and conclude that ocean acidification will be detrimental to marine ecosystems. Studies that report no effect of ocean acidification are typically more difficult to publish". Therefore, studies reporting no effect ocean acidification were welcomed. As the mechanisms underlying the biological and ecological effects of ocean acidification are still not completely understood, Browman wanted to introduce a broader perspective on ocean acidification research and invited submissions that would achieve this objective. This special issue contains 44 contributions that address various studies on ocean acidification including methodological issues, behavioural effects, the effects of ocean acidification in combination with other environmental drivers, projecting economic impacts, and, significantly, those studies that show no effect, little effect, and/or mixed effects of ocean acidification. ICES and Oxford University Press are pleased to make this special issue, Towards a Broader Perspective on Ocean Acidification Research, freely available. ### For further information, please contact: Celine Byrne, Communications Assistant International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) Copenhagen, Denmark E-mail: celine.byrne@ices.dk Tel. +45 33 38 67 05 For journalists: please direct requests for pdfs of articles from IJMS to Chloe Foster | chloe.foster@oup.com The number of surgeries performed worldwide has grown steadily, particularly in the developing world, yet there remains an enormous gap in surgical care between rich and poor nations, according to a new study led by a Stanford University School of Medicine researcher. Between 2004 and 2012, the estimated annual number of operations around the globe rose 38 percent, from about 224 million to nearly 313 million, the researchers found. The biggest increase, 114 percent, occurred in relatively poor countries. Yet these developing countries still account for a small percentage of operations overall. Only 6.3 percent of surgical procedures were done in the very poorest nations, which account for nearly 37 percent of the world's population, suggesting a vast unmet need for care, the researchers report. "Surgery is being provided with increasing frequency in countries with very low expenditure on health care. Yet there is still a huge disparity between what is being offered in high health-expenditure countries versus the low-resourced countries," said Thomas Weiser, MD, an assistant professor of surgery at Stanford and lead author of the study. Moreover, the most frequently performed operation in poor countries was cesarean section, which accounted for 30 percent of the total, suggesting other significant surgical needs, such as traumatic injuries and cancer care, are being given low priority, Weiser said. The study will be published online March 1 in the Bulletin of the World Health Organization. Quality, safety concerns In addition to issues of access to surgery, Weiser said there is concern about the quality and safety of care provided in developing countries, where inadequate equipment and training, and a lack of sterile environments, can put patients at risk. These concerns are the focus of a separate study, published Feb. 22 online in the Lancet Global Health, in which he and his colleagues found high mortality rates and great variability in outcomes among patients undergoing three common procedures -- C-section, appendectomy and hernia repair -- in low- and middle-income countries. "Surgery is a high-risk intervention," Weiser said. "We are talking about millions of operations a year, so a lot of patients are at risk. Safety is an important part of a care delivery strategy." In the past, he said, health systems in low- and middle-income countries have put a priority on managing infectious diseases and on maternal and child health. While these are still significant health issues, industrialization and aging populations have contributed to greater prevalence of other, noncommunicable conditions, such as heart disease and cancer, as well as traumatic injuries, Weiser said. These medical conditions often require surgical intervention, yet little is known about the availability of surgical care in many parts of the world, he said. Hunting for accurate numbers In the study, he and his colleagues at two Boston hospitals set out to obtain up-to-date and accurate figures on global trends in surgery, and country-by-country estimates of surgical volume for all 194 member nations of the World Health Organization. The study is an update of research they originally conducted on data from 2004. They scoured recently published literature, queried individual ministries of health and obtained data for some countries from the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. For many countries, however, there was no information available on surgical volume, so the investigators developed estimates based on multiple imputation, a statistical technique to extrapolate data based on existing information. For purposes of the study, they categorized countries as very-low-expenditure (less than $100 per capita spent annually on health care); low-expenditure ($100 to $400 per capita annually); middle-expenditure ($400 to $1,000); and high-expenditure (more than $1,000). They found that the greatest increase in surgical availability occurred in very-low- and low-expenditure countries during the eight-year period since the last analysis was performed. In the poorest nations, the number of operations rose 69 percent, from 394 to 666 procedures per 100,000 people each year. In low-expenditure countries, the increase was 114.6 percent, from 1,851 to 3,973 operations per 100,000 people per year. Focus on high-impact procedures Still, they found a huge disparity in surgical offerings between rich and poor nations. In 2012, for instance, only 30 percent of surgical procedures were done in very-low- and low-expenditure countries, though these nations comprise 71 percent of the world's population. And the bulk of these procedures were C-sections. "In resource-poor settings, they don't have the capacity to provide the full repertoire of services," Weiser said. "So they focus on the high-impact services -- the ones that are given priority, like maternal health." The results are in keeping with the 2015 report from Lancet Commission on Global Surgery, which found that some 5 billion people lack access to safe, affordable surgical care and that an additional 143 million operations were needed to meet emergency and essential needs. Weiser said the latest study reinforces the need to invest in both human and physical capital to help build effective surgical capacity in the developing world. "One is a skills issue. There aren't enough providers, and there's obviously a brain-drain issue, as trained providers leave their home countries to practice elsewhere," he said. "Surgery is a very unsupported discipline in some parts of the world, in terms of infrastructure, and it's high-risk. ... A lot of those fundamental issues need to be addressed." ### Other Stanford co-authors of the study are Micaela Esquivel, MD, resident in general surgery and surgical research fellow; research associate Pablo Tarsicio Uribe-Leitz, MD, MPH; graduate student Rui Fu; and medical student Tej Azad. The study was supported by the Stanford Department of Surgery, Ariadne Laboratories in Boston and the Massachusetts General Hospital Department of Surgery. The Stanford University School of Medicine consistently ranks among the nation's top medical schools, integrating research, medical education, patient care and community service. For more news about the school, please visit http://med.stanford.edu/school.html. The medical school is part of Stanford Medicine, which includes Stanford Health Care and Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford. For information about all three, please visit http://med.stanford.edu. Print media contact: Ruthann Richter at (650) 725-8047 (richter1@stanford.edu) Broadcast media contact: Margarita Gallardo at (650) 723-7897 (mjgallardo@stanford.edu) Head of Astrophysics at the University of Bath, Professor Carole Mundell, has been named Woman of the Year in the UK's biggest programme championing women in technology, the 2016 FDM everywoman in Technology Awards. Supported by techUK and the world's leading technology businesses the annual FDM everywoman in Technology Awards event shines the spotlight on accomplished role models who are achieving success in their field while simultaneously inspiring others to pursue a career in the technology industry. Announced at a prestigious awards ceremony in London last night (Tuesday 23 February), Professor Mundell was selected from a field of hundreds of applicants, chosen by a panel of senior technology leaders against criteria including career achievement, future potential and their commitment to supporting others in the industry. Whilst her scientific achievements impressed the judges, they were inspired by how she applied her knowledge to develop a novel leading-edge technology, thinking outside of the box and finding innovative solutions on a shoe string budget. They also praised her passion and dedication to breaking down the barriers between young women and STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), using her position as a successful, internationally recognised female professor to promote the exciting world of science and technology. Winning prestigious fellowships and working in the UK and USA, Professor Mundell has spent the past decade building an international team exploiting innovative technology to catch the fast-fading light from Gamma Ray Bursts - the Universe's most powerful explosions. These bursts represent the birth cries of black holes formed in the explosive death throes of massive stars. Using telescopes around the world and in space, Professor Mundell and her collaborators analyse the light from gamma ray bursts, which gives them information about the physical process that produced it. She commented: "This award means a lot to me personally, but it also means a lot to women in science. "I think this award is important recognition of women's leadership in technology and I will use it to inspire, encourage and support girls and women to fulfil their potential in science, technology and engineering. "I'd like to thank my collaborators around the world, with whom it's been a joy to work and who believed we could do the impossible. I'm one of those people, if you tell me something's impossible, it makes me want to do it more and more." Professor Jonathan Knight, Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Research at the University said: "I'd like to congratulate Carole on this prestigious and well-deserved award, which recognises her innovation and leadership in the field. Her energy and commitment are a real inspiration to others." 91 per cent of physics research from the University of Bath was judged to be world-leading or internationally excellent by the in the recent independently-assessed Research Excellence Framework 2014. ### Carbon tetrachloride (CCl4) was once commonly used as a cleaning agent and remains an important compound in chemical industry. CCl4 is responsible for that sickly sweet smell associated with dry cleaning solvents from decades ago. It's a known air toxin and it eats away at the ozone layer--the gas accounts for about 10-15 percent of the ozone-depleting chemicals in the atmosphere today. As a result, production across the globe has been banned for many years for uses that result in CCl4 escaping to the atmosphere. Given these stringent limits, the chemical is being released into the air at small rates here in the United States, but a new study reports those rates are still 30 to 100 times higher than amounts reported to emission inventories.That study, led by CIRES scientist Lei Hu and NOAA scientist Stephen Montzka, also suggests that the source of the unexpected emissions in the U.S. appears associated with the production of chlorinated chemicals (such as those ultimately used to create things like Teflon and PVC). The new analysis is published today in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences. In the 1980s, when scientists discovered that CCl4 was contributing to the destruction of the ozone layer, the synthetic compound was included on a list of substances to be phased out of production. That list, part of the Montreal Protocol on Substances that Deplete the Ozone Layer, required that production for dispersive use (uses that would result in escape to the atmosphere) of CCl4 be discontinued in developed countries by 1996, and in developing countries by 2010. Despite that phase out, the decline of CCl4 in the atmosphere has been unexpectedly slow. That left many scientists puzzled, including Montzka, who works in NOAA's Earth System Research Laboratory (ESRL) and is also a CIRES Fellow. "We've been scratching our heads, trying to understand why," he said. "When we look at the amounts produced and destroyed, which industry throughout the world has reported to the Ozone Secretariat, we would expect the chemical's global concentration to be decreasing at a rate of nearly 4 percent per year. But it's only decreasing at 1 percent per year. So what's happening?" To investigate the U.S. contribution, Montzka, Hu and colleagues from NOAA, CIRES, and other scientific institutions studied observations made from NOAA's North American air sampling network. Since the late 2000s, they tracked the composition of the atmosphere from this network of nine tall towers and many more regular aircraft-sampling sites across North America. "We wanted to identify where these emissions were coming from, as well as their magnitude," Hu said. She and her colleagues considered landfills, where residual amounts of CCl4 might still be leaking from old fire extinguishers or solvent cans, given that CCl4 was used for these purposes in the early to mid-1900s. The team looked at high-density population areas to determine if the use of bleach or chemicals in laundry or swimming pools might be responsible for the emissions they detected. They also checked into industrial sources--and here they had some help. The Environmental Protection Agency requires industries to report CCl4 emissions. Hu and Montzka were able to compare that information against what they derived from their precise atmospheric measurements of CCl4 concentrations across the country. The analysis of all those data suggests that the CCl4 emissions arise from the same geographic areas as those industries reporting to the EPA. Not a huge surprise, but the amount found was 30 to 100 times higher than what was being reported. The most significant hot spot was the Gulf Coast region, with smaller emissions in Colorado and California. "We can't tell exactly what the sources of emissions are," said Montzka. "It could be underreporting from known sources, it could be an unknown source, it could be both. It could be some other activity that's geographically tied to the production of chlorinated chemicals and products that hasn't been recognized previously as a significant source." Hu and Montzka said they hope their work inspires more research, both here in the United States and internationally, to better pin down the precise reasons for excess emissions. The researchers reported in the new paper that the United States has been responsible for about 8 percent of the overall global CCl4 emissions in recent years. If the processes that emit CCl4 in the U.S. also happen in other places, it would go a long way towards explaining the slow rate of decline of CCl4 in the global atmosphere. "Before this work," said Montzka, "There'd been very little progress on understanding the mystery of continuing global emissions of CCl4. Now we have a better picture, at least in the United States, of where some of those emissions are coming from. That's the first step towards minimizing emissions in the future and speeding up the recovery of the ozone layer." ### Authors of "Continued emissions of carbon tetrachloride from the U.S. nearly two decades after its phase-out for dispersive uses" are L. Hu (CIRES and NOAA), S. A. Montzka (NOAA), B. R. Miller (CIRES and NOAA), A. E. Andrews (NOAA), J. B. Miller (NOAA) S. J. Lehman (INSTAAR, CU-Boulder), C. Sweeney (CIRES and NOAA), S. Miller (Stanford University), K. Thoning (NOAA), C. Siso (CIRES and NOAA), E. Atlas (University of Miami), D. Blake (University of California Irvine), J. A. de Gouw (CIRES and NOAA), J. B. Gilman (CIRES and NOAA), G. Dutton (NOAA), J. W. Elkins (NOAA), B. D. Hall (NOAA), H. Chen (University of Groningen, the Netherlands), M. L. Fischer (Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory), M. Mountain (Atmospheric and Environmental Research), T. Nehrkorn (Atmospheric and Environmental Research), S. C. Biraud (Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory), F. Moore (CIRES and NOAA) and P. P. Tans (NOAA) CIRES is a partnership of NOAA and CU-Boulder. LEXINGTON, Ky. (Feb. 29, 2016) - A new one atom-thick flat material that could upstage the wonder material graphene and advance digital technology has been discovered by a physicist at the University of Kentucky working in collaboration with scientists from Daimler in Germany and the Institute for Electronic Structure and Laser (IESL) in Greece. Reported in Physical Review B, Rapid Communication, the new material is made up of silicon, boron and nitrogen - all light, inexpensive and earth abundant elements - and is extremely stable, a property many other graphene alternatives lack. "We used simulations to see if the bonds would break or disintegrate - it didn't happen," said Madhu Menon, a physicist in the UK Center for Computational Sciences. "We heated the material up to 1,000 degree Celsius and it still didn't break." Using state-of-the-art theoretical computations, Menon and his collaborators Ernst Richter from Daimler and a former UK Department of Physics and Astronomy post-doctoral research associate, and Antonis Andriotis from IESL, have demonstrated that by combining the three elements, it is possible to obtain a one atom-thick, truly 2D material with properties that can be fine-tuned to suit various applications beyond what is possible with graphene. While graphene is touted as being the world's strongest material with many unique properties, it has one downside: it isn't a semiconductor and therefore disappoints in the digital technology industry. Subsequent search for new 2D semiconducting materials led researchers to a new class of three-layer materials called transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs). TMDCs are mostly semiconductors and can be made into digital processors with greater efficiency than anything possible with silicon. However, these are much bulkier than graphene and made of materials that are not necessarily earth abundant and inexpensive. Searching for a better option that is light, earth abundant, inexpensive and a semiconductor, the team led by Menon studied different combinations of elements from the first and second row of the Periodic Table. Although there are many ways to combine silicon, boron and nitrogen to form planar structures, only one specific arrangement of these elements resulted in a stable structure. The atoms in the new structure are arranged in a hexagonal pattern as in graphene, but that is where the similarity ends. The three elements forming the new material all have different sizes; the bonds connecting the atoms are also different. As a result, the sides of the hexagons formed by these atoms are unequal, unlike in graphene. The new material is metallic, but can be made semiconducting easily by attaching other elements on top of the silicon atoms. The presence of silicon also offers the exciting possibility of seamless integration with the current silicon-based technology, allowing the industry to slowly move away from silicon instead of eliminating it completely, all at once. "We know that silicon-based technology is reaching its limit because we are putting more and more components together and making electronic processors more and more compact," Menon said. "But we know that this cannot go on indefinitely; we need smarter materials." Furthermore, in addition to creating an electronic band gap, attachment of other elements can also be used to selectively change the band gap values - a key advantage over graphene for solar energy conversion and electronics applications. Other graphene-like materials have been proposed but lack the strengths of the material discovered by Menon and his team. Silicene, for example, does not have a flat surface and eventually forms a 3D surface. Other materials are highly unstable, some only for a few hours at most. The bulk of the theoretical calculations required were performed on the computers at the UK Center for Computational Sciences with collaborators Richter and Andriotis directly accessing them through fast networks. Now the team is working in close collaboration with a team led by Mahendra Sunkara of the Conn Center for Renewable Energy Research at University of Louisville to create the material in the lab. The Conn Center team has had close collaborations with Menon on a number of new materials systems where they were able to test his theory with experiments for a number of several new solar materials. "We are very anxious for this to be made in the lab," Menon said. "The ultimate test of any theory is experimental verification, so the sooner the better!" Some of the properties, such as the ability to form various types of nanotubes, are discussed in the paper but Menon expects more to emerge with further study. "This discovery opens a new chapter in material science by offering new opportunities for researchers to explore functional flexibility and new properties for new applications," he said. "We can expect some surprises." ### UK is the University for Kentucky. At UK, we are educating more students, treating more patients with complex illnesses and conducting more research and service than at any time in our 150-year history. To read more about the UK story and how you can support continued investment in your university and the Commonwealth, go to: uky.edu/uk4ky. #uky4ky #seeblue MIAMI - Researchers from the University of Miami's Rosenstiel School of Marine and Atmospheric Science and the University of New England used the same ultrasound imaging technology used by medical professionals on pregnant women to study the reproductive biology of female tiger sharks. The study offers marine biologists a new technique to investigate the reproductive organs and determine the presence of embryos in sharks without having to sacrifice the animal first, which was commonly done in the past. In the study, the research team performed in-water ultrasounds on live tiger sharks (Galeocerdo cuvier) and took blood samples for hormone analysis to determine the reproductive status of females at Tiger Beach in the Bahamas, a site known for its year-round abundance of tiger sharks. The new method allows researchers to determine if the female sharks at Tiger Beach were mature and pregnant. Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FgK3LGR0HQM "Using the same ultrasound imaging technology used on pregnant women, we discovered Tiger Beach was important for females of different life stages, and that a high proportion of tiger sharks were pregnant during winter months," said James Sulikowski, a professor at the University of New England's Department of Marine Science. "Our data suggests that Tiger Beach may function as a refuge habitat for females to reach maturity as well as a gestation ground where pregnant females benefit from calm, warm waters year-round that help incubate the developing embryos and speed up gestation," said study co-author Neil Hammerschlag, a research assistant professor at the UM Rosenstiel School and Abess Center for Ecosystem Science and Policy. Populations of many migratory marine predators such as sharks are experiencing large declines across the globe and fishing aggregations of pregnant females can significantly impact the health of local and regional populations. Tiger Beach is located within the Bahamas Exclusive Economic Zone, where shark fishing has been prohibited since 2011. The relatively high abundance of tiger sharks in the Bahamas compared to the rest of the Caribbean where populations are much lower could be attributed in part to the protection of mature and gravid females in the Bahamas shark sanctuary. "It is crucial for marine biologists to understand their behaviors to provide information for resource managers to effectively protect and manage them," said Hammerschlag ### Their study has been published in the latest edition of the Journal of Aquatic Biology. http://www.int-res.com/abstracts/ab/v24/n3/p175-184/ Sulikowski J, Wheeler CR, Gallagher AJ, Prohaska BK, Langan JA, Hammerschlag N. (2016). Seasonal and life-stage variation in the reproductive ecology of a marine apex predator, the tiger shark Galeocerdo cuvier, at a protected female dominated site. Aquatic Biology, 24: 175-184 About the University of Miami's Rosenstiel School The University of Miami is one of the largest private research institutions in the southeastern United States. The University's mission is to provide quality education, attract and retain outstanding students, support the faculty and their research, and build an endowment for University initiatives. Founded in the 1940's, the Rosenstiel School of Marine & Atmospheric Science has grown into one of the world's premier marine and atmospheric research institutions. Offering dynamic interdisciplinary academics, the Rosenstiel School is dedicated to helping communities to better understand the planet, participating in the establishment of environmental policies, and aiding in the improvement of society and quality of life. For more information, visit: http://www.rsmas.miami.edu. Plymouth University, Cornwall NHS Foundation Trust and Cornwall Royal Hospital and Oxfordshire-based charity SUDEP Action are delighted that EpsMon - the world's first self-monitor app and developed by this partnership - is the winning solution to the international challenge launched by Epilepsy Foundation of America. The challenge was for a method to reduce the risk of seizures with the purpose of preventing Sudden Unexpected Death in Epilepsy (SUDEP). The SUDEP Institute challenged participants to come up with ideas for a method of intervention to reduce the risk of seizures, especially convulsive or tonic-clonic seizures, with the purpose of preventing SUDEP. Over 300 participants registered for the challenge, and they submitted 83 solutions from 25 countries. EpSMon is a digital version of a SUDEP and Seizure Safety Checklist for clinicians. It encourages people with epilepsy to check their condition and overall wellbeing every three months by answering a series of questions which flag up any changes or increasing risks they need to be aware of; encouraging them to then seek advice from their doctor. SUDEP Action are the only UK epilepsy charity dedicated to the specialised support and involvement of those bereaved by epilepsy. They are committed to reducing the number of potentially avoidable epilepsy deaths each year, both in the UK and internationally. Jane Hanna CEO of SUDEP Action, who founded the charity in 1996 following the sudden death of her partner Alan, aged 27, said: "We know that awareness and management of risk in epilepsy in the community is extremely neglected. Bereaved families have been waiting 20 years for this information to be available to help people reduce risk. The EpsMon project is funded mainly by bereaved families and particular thanks must go to Kt's Fund that funded SUDEP Action's work in the South West following the sudden death of Katie Hallett, a young nurse. We are delighted that bereaved families across the UK are continuing to invest in the project and that EpSMon is free and will be available for people with android phones on March 14." Dr Craig Newman, Senior Research Fellow and Mobile Health Tech Innovations Lead at Plymouth University Peninsula Schools of Medicine and Dentistry, said: "Health apps are a growing phenomenon and have huge potential to transform how patients and their clinicians manage long term health conditions. We are pleased that not only is this app making a difference to people's lives, but that it has been recognised for doing so. It is a true team effort." Liz Hollingsdale, who set up Kt's Fund with her husband Bob, following the death of her daughter Katie said: "Katie was such a caring and thoughtful person. A beautiful daughter, a wonderful sister and an amazing friend. This is such a fitting tribute to her, she would be overwhelmed at what has been achieved in her memory. I would like to thank the trustee`s and supporters of Kt`s fund who have worked so hard to raise the money to support this project. My thanks also to SUDEP Action for giving us the opportunity of working with them. Our memories of Katie will be with us always." Dr Rohit Shankar, Consultant in Adult Developmental Neuropsychiatry, Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust,added: "Really pleased as it's a big step in the right direction of new horizons and new hopes for EpSMon in the interests of the safety of patients with epilepsy world wide." ### PHILADELPHIA--Many facets of the immune system can be manipulated to combat cancer, including macrophages, an immune cell subset that is commonly associated with aiding tumor growth. In a new preclinical study in Cancer Discovery,, researchers from the Abramson Cancer Center (ACC) at the University of Pennsylvania have uncovered the poorly understood mechanics of how macrophages can be "re-educated" by an experimental immune therapy to help tear down the scaffolding that surrounds and protects pancreas cancer from chemotherapy. The study, led by Gregory L. Beatty, MD, PhD, an assistant professor of Hematology/Oncology at the Perelman School of Medicine at the University of Pennsylvania and the ACC, defines the key steps necessary to redirect macrophages to attack the walls around the tumor, known as the microenvironment. "We've unraveled some of the complex, bidirectional messaging between a tumor and its microenvironment. We've learned how antibodies that target a cell surface molecule called CD40 work with the immune system to tear back that wall," said Beatty. "Additionally, our findings identify a novel role for CD40 antibodies--as a 'lead-in' therapy to enhance the efficacy of chemotherapy and possibly other biological treatments for pancreatic cancer." In 2016, the American Cancer Society reported that the five-year survival rate for pancreatic cancer patients went from 7 to 8 percent, a small, though welcomed increase that still underscores the need for improved therapies. A 2011 study from Penn published in Science previously demonstrated CD40's ability to re-educate the monocytes and macrophages in the blood and tissue to break down the tumor microenvironment in both humans and mice; however, the biology behind that mechanism and the therapeutic implications remained unclear. In that initial study, a team of researchers also led by Beatty, were surprised to see CD40 antibodies stimulate macrophages to attack pancreatic cancer because they had historically been thought to work by activating T-cells. However, the team detected no role for T cells. Using mouse models in the new study, the team has now identified a role for several factors, including chemokine ligand 2 (CCL2) and interferon gamma (IFN-?), that are released by the immune system after treatment with CD40 antibodies, and cooperate to redirect macrophages to attack cancer. Whereas CCL2 is required for facilitating macrophage infiltration into tumors, IFN- is necessary to "re-educate" tumor-infiltrating macrophages to induce the release of key metalloproteinases, which are enzymes capable of degrading the fibrotic scaffold that surrounds and protects tumors from chemotherapy. This complex cascade of events is ultimately what leads to fibrosis degradation, the researchers found. The findings also point to the optimal time to deliver CD40 antibodies for enhancing the benefit of gemcitabine, a standard chemotherapy used in the treatment of pancreatic cancer. The team found that the fibrotic scaffold of tumors remained degraded after CD40 treatment for approximately one week, raising the possibility that chemotherapy may be more efficacious during this therapeutic window. The timing of delivery of a CD40 agonist and chemotherapy is critical, the authors said. Mice treated with gemcitabine two days after receiving CD40 antibodies were found to poorly tolerate chemotherapy and had significant weight loss, with 30 percent mortality. However, when chemo was administered five days after CD40, it was both well-tolerated and produced promising clinical activity marked by tumor cell death and shrinkage. This finding demonstrates the potential of CD40 antibodies to improve the efficacy of chemotherapy - a finding that may best explain the promising clinical results seen in the 2011 report, said Beatty. "Together, we believe that this data supports further investigation of therapeutics that redirect monocytes and macrophages, rather than depleting them. Macrophages can be very potent killers of cancer. Since keeping them out of tumors is a challenge, why not harness their recruitment? This may be the Achilles heel of pancreatic cancer," Beatty said. "Now that we better understand this biology, we are hopeful that our findings will spark further clinical interest and a path forward to test this treatment approach in patients." ### Co-authors on the study include Kristen B. Long, Whitney L. Gladney, Graham M. Tooker, Kathleen Graham, and Joseph A. Fraietta, all from the division of Hematology/Oncology at Penn and the Abramson Cancer Center. PHILADELPHIA, PA (February 29, 2016) - The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing (Penn Nursing) today announced that with a new grant of $60,000 from the Jonas Center for Nursing and Veterans Healthcare, matched by $40,000 of its own monies, it will fund the scholarship of five doctoral nursing students in 2016. As a recipient of the Jonas Center grant, Penn Nursing is part of a national effort to stem the faculty shortage and prepare the next generation of nurses - critical as a clinical nurse shortage is anticipated just as an aging population requires care. The Penn Nursing Jonas Scholars join more than 1,000 future nurse educators and leaders at 140 universities across all 50 states supported by Jonas Center programs, the Jonas Nurse Leaders Scholars Program and Jonas Veterans Healthcare Program (JVHP). These scholarships support nurses pursuing PhDs and DNPs, the terminal degrees in the field. As the nation's leading philanthropic funder of graduate nursing education, the Jonas Center is addressing the critical need for qualified nursing faculty. U.S. nursing schools turned away nearly 70,000 qualified applicants from baccalaureate and graduate nursing programs in 2014 due in large part to an insufficient number of faculty . Further, nearly two-thirds of registered nurses over age 54 say they are considering retirement . "In 2008, we set an ambitious goal to support 1,000 Jonas Nurse Scholars. This year, on our Center's 10th anniversary, we celebrate this achievement and are amazed by the talent of this cohort of future nurse leaders," said Donald Jonas, who co-founded the Center with Barbara Jonas, his wife. "In the decade to come, we look forward to continuing to work with our partner nursing schools and to the great impact that the Jonas Scholars will have on improving healthcare around the world." The Penn Nursing Jonas Scholars will begin their graduate careers in the fall and will be supported through 2018. ### About the University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing The University of Pennsylvania School of Nursing is one of the world's leading schools of nursing and is ranked the #1 graduate nursing school in the United States by U.S. News & World Report. Penn Nursing is consistently among the nation's top recipients of nursing research funding from the National Institutes of Health. Penn Nursing prepares nurse scientists and nurse leaders to meet the health needs of a global society through research, education, and practice. *American Association of Colleges of Nursing, 2014-2015 Enrollment and Graduations in Baccalaureate and Graduate Programs in Nursing **AMN Healthcare, 2015 Survey of Registered Nurses: Viewpoints on Retirement, Education and Emerging Roles University of Sheffield study finds hazardous tropical cyclones in the Philippines are increasing in intensity causing widespread damage and loss of life, which may be due to rising sea-surface temperatures Tropical cyclones in the Philippines are becoming more extreme and causing greater amounts of devastation, a new study has shown. Geographers from the University of Sheffield have analysed annual data over the period from 1951 to 2013 and saw a slightly decreasing trend in the number of smaller cyclones (above 118 kilometres per hour) that hit land in the Philippines, particularly in the last two decades. More hazardous tropical cyclones (above 150 kilometres per hour) were shown to be on the increase in recent years, with the northern island of Luzon frequently affected by these weather events and associated rainfall. Previous research has suggested that the increase in the number of intense tropical cyclones could be due to rising sea-surface temperatures since the 1970s as a result of climate change. However it is too early to draw conclusions that will influence tropical cyclone projections, so this remains an active part of research on extreme climate events. Monica Ortiz from the Department of Geography and Scholar in the Grantham Centre for Sustainable Futures said: "Growing up in the Philippines myself, I understand the catastrophic loss of life and damage to property that extreme weather can cause. By analysing this data from the past up to the present, we can better adapt to further climate change and prepare for future disasters." According to the United Nations University (UNU) World Risk Report 2014, the Philippines is one of the most at-risk nations to dangers such as tropical cyclones, monsoon rains, earthquakes and tsunamis. Many large communities live in typhoon-prone regions and low-lying coastal zones. At least 6,300 people died in the Philippines in November 2013 as a result of Typhoon Haiyan, one of the strongest tropical cyclones ever recorded. Researchers plan to use this analysis, published in the International Journal of Climatology, to help the country better adapt and become more resilient to extreme weather events and the challenges of climate change. ### The project is a collaboration between researchers at the University of Sheffield, the national meteorological agency of the Philippines (PAGASA), the Oscar Lopez Centre for Climate Change Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management (OML Centre). Notes to Editors Paper: 'Observed trends and impacts of tropical cyclones in the Philippines' Thelma A Cinco, Rosalina G De Guzman, Andrea Monica D.Ortiz, Rafaela Jane P. Delfino, Rodel D Lasco, Flaviana D Hilario, Edna L Juanillo, Rose Barba, Emma D Ares. International Journal of Climatology The Grantham Centre for Sustainable Futures An ambitious and innovative collaboration between the University of Sheffield and the Grantham Foundation for the Protection of the Environment. Our sustainability research creates knowledge and connects it to policy debates on how to build a fairer world and save natural resources for future generations. The University of Sheffield With almost 27,000 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. In 2014 it was voted number one university in the UK for Student Satisfaction by Times Higher Education and in the last decade has won four Queen's Anniversary Prizes in recognition of the outstanding contribution to the United Kingdom's intellectual, economic, cultural and social life. Sheffield has five 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. For more information, contact: Kirsty Bowen, Media Relations Officer, 0114 222 1034, kirsty.bowen@sheffield.ac.uk Petty criminals who are black are more likely to be jailed than their white counterparts and serve longer sentences for low severity crimes, according to new research. Dr Todd Hartman, from the University of Sheffield's Methods Institute, and Rhys Hester, of the University of Minnesota, explored if, how and when race factors in criminal sentencing by analysing more than 17,000 decisions from South Carolina in the USA. Their study, published in the Journal of Quantitative Criminology today (Monday 29 February 2016), highlights inequalities in incarceration rates and sentence lengths for minority offenders. The research tested the "liberation hypothesis", which concerns how much flexibility judges have when sentencing, depending on the relevant case facts. The theory stipulates that when the case facts are unambiguous and the evidence clearly favours one side - for example, for the most serious crimes and repeat criminal offenders - judges will have little choice but to impose severe punishment regardless of extra-legal factors like race. However, in more ambiguous contexts, judges are "liberated" from the constraints of extreme criminality. In these instances there is room for judges to exercise discretion, and the door is opened for extra-legal characteristics such as race to influence sentencing decisions. The researchers chose to study data from South Carolina, where there are no sentencing guidelines and decision-makers have greater discretion when sentencing offenders. Using a class of event count models, they found the "black penalty" varied significantly depending upon an offender's criminal history. Black people with lower levels of criminal history were more likely than white people to be jailed, with the likelihood of incarceration increasing by as much as 43 per cent for those with no past criminal history to ten per cent for those with moderate criminal history. However, when offenders had a substantial criminal record, this had a constraining effect that neutralised the impact of race. Black offenders of low severity crimes received slightly longer sentences than white offenders, but high severity black offenders received shorter average sentences than white offenders. Dr Todd Hartman said: "Much of the recent media focus in the U.S. has been on racial disparities in law enforcement, most notably with coverage of police shootings, excessive force, and unlawful deaths. Of course, this is just part of the story, as contact with law enforcement is only the first stage of the criminal justice system. "Whether intentional or not, the fact that race appears to influence incarceration and criminal sentencing decisions is troubling. It is particularly concerning that this pattern of disparity appears to be affecting African American offenders with limited criminal histories or for less severe crimes. "We hope that our quantitative modelling approach will be helpful to researchers studying criminal sentencing, as well as raise awareness of this potential bias in sentencing decisions." ### Notes to editors The University of Sheffield With almost 27,000 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 2016 and was voted number one university in the UK for Student Satisfaction by Times Higher Education in 2014. In the last decade it has won four Queen's Anniversary Prizes in recognition of the outstanding contribution to the United Kingdom's intellectual, economic, cultural and social life. Sheffield has five 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. For further information please contact: Hannah Postles, Media Relations Officer on 0114 222 1046 or email h.postles@sheffield.ac.uk Researchers have known for decades that the environmental stress experienced by one generation induces changes in behavior, shape, biochemical properties and rates of development of their offspring. But the precise ecological conditions that produced these responses were not known. Researchers at The University of Texas at Arlington have now provided the first evidence that stable environments like constant predator threats, not unstable conditions, generate these non-genetic "trans-generational responses" in the next generation. "These results have broad implications for understanding responses to climate change, the spread of invasive species, changes in the availability of food sources or other threats, " said Matthew Walsh, UTA assistant biology professor and leader of the study. "In times of rapid change, organisms like mammals with a long reproductive cycle would perceive the ecological conditions as unstable and not evolve this "transgenerational response", which may affect their long-term survival," he said. "Organisms that mature in days like water fleas would not perceive any changes and could continue to do so, and perhaps progressively improve their fitness." Walsh and his team used the interplay of fish and their prey, water fleas, to demonstrate the ecological conditions needed for "trans-generational response." They found that water fleas from populations that experience consistently intense predation responded by programming future generations to develop 10 percent faster to enhance survival rates. At the same time, parental water fleas that experience variations in predations responded by accelerating their own maturation but did not generate "trans-generational responses" in the next generation. The findings were published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B, as "Local adaptation in trans-generational responses to predators." Walsh was accompanied on this study by Stephan Munch of the National Marine Fisheries Service; David Post of Yale University's Ecology and Evolutionary Biology Department; and Todd Castoe, Julian Holmes, Michelle Packer, Kelsey Biles and Melissa Walsh, all from UTA. The research was supported through UTA's Research Enhancement Program. This new study builds on a previous work in which Walsh demonstrated that one generation can speed up its own maturation in response to a predator threat or speed up the maturation of its offspring, but not do both. That paper, "Predator-induced phenotypic plasticity within-and across-generations: A Challenge for theory?" was also published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society B, and forms part of his ongoing study of how organisms alter the expression of traits across multiple generations. Morteza Khaledi, dean of the UTA College of Science, commended Walsh on his continued efforts to bridge ecology and evolution. "This research provides key information on evolutionary response to environmental threats and aligns with the university's Strategic Plan 2020: Bold Solutions Global Impact, under the theme of Global Environmental Impact," Khaledi said. "These responses are widespread across many species, and a better understanding of these mechanisms helps us all." In 2015, Matthew Walsh received a $220,000 National Science Foundation Long-Term Ecological Research Grant to extend his research to study the aquatic habitats of Alaska and Wisconsin to better document, understand and predict how organisms respond to natural change that is influenced by humans or environmental pollutants. "This forms part of my long-term goal of building a research program integrating ecological and evolutionary studies," Walsh said. "We need to build awareness of the vulnerability of ecosystems to anthropogenic change." ### About The University of Texas at Arlington The University of Texas at Arlington is a Carnegie "highest research activity" institution of more than 50,000 students in campus-based and online degree programs and is the second-largest institution in The University of Texas System. The Chronicle of Higher Education ranked UTA as one of the 20 fastest-growing public research universities in the nation in 2014. U.S. News & World Report ranks UTA fifth in the nation for undergraduate diversity. The University is a Hispanic-Serving Institution and is ranked as the top four-year college in Texas for veterans on Military Times' 2016 Best for Vets list. Visit http://www.uta.edu to learn more, and find UTA rankings and recognition at http://www.uta.edu/uta/about/rankings.php. This news release is available in German. Researchers at the Institute of Quantum Optics and Quantum Information, the University of Vienna, and the Universitat Autonoma de Barcelona have achieved a new milestone in quantum physics: they were able to entangle three particles of light in a high-dimensional quantum property related to the 'twist' of their wavefront structure. The results from their experiment appear in the journal Nature Photonics. Entanglement is a counterintuitive property of quantum physics that has long puzzled scientists and philosophers alike. Entangled quanta of light seem to exert an influence on each other, irrespective of how much distance is between them. Consider for example a metaphorical quantum ice dancer, who has the uncanny ability to pirouette both clockwise and counter-clockwise simultaneously. A pair of entangled ice-dancers whirling away from each other would then have perfectly correlated directions of rotation: If the first dancer twirls clockwise then so does her partner, even if skating in ice rinks on two different continents. "The entangled photons in our experiment can be illustrated by not two, but three such ice dancers, dancing a perfectly synchronized quantum mechanical ballet," explains Mehul Malik, the first author of the paper. "Their dance is also a bit more complex, with two of the dancers performing yet another correlated movement in addition to pirouetting. This type of asymmetric quantum entanglement has been predicted before on paper, but we are the first to actually create it in the lab." From fundamentals to applications: Layered quantum cryptography The scientists created their three-photon entangled state by using yet another quantum mechanical trick: they combined two pairs of high-dimensionally entangled photons in such a manner that it became impossible to ascertain where a particular photon came from. Besides serving as a test bed for studying many fundamental concepts in quantum mechanics, multi-photon entangled states such as these have applications ranging from quantum computing to quantum encryption. Along these lines, the authors of this study have developed a new type of quantum cryptographic protocol using their state that allows different layers of information to be shared asymmetrically among multiple parties with unconditional security. "The experiment opens the door for a future quantum Internet with more than two partners and it allows them to communicate more than one bit per photon," says Anton Zeilinger. Many technical challenges remain before such a quantum communication protocol becomes a practical reality. However, given the rapid progress in quantum technologies today, it is only a matter of time before this type of entanglement finds a place in the quantum networks of the future. ### This research was supported by the European Commission, the European Research Council (ERC) and the Austrian Science Fund (FWF). Publication in Nature Photonics Multi-Photon Entanglement in High Dimensions: Mehul Malik, Manuel Erhard, Marcus Huber, Mario Krenn, Robert Fickler, Anton Zeilinger. Nature Photonics, 2016 http://dx.doi.org/10.1038/nphoton.2016.12. Preprint: http://arxiv.org/abs/1509.02561 Further information: http://www.iqoqi-vienna.at/ An operational assessment of a national free ambulance services programme reveals a drastic reduction in pregnancy-related deaths in rural Ethiopia, suggesting that the innovative model could offer a cost-effective way to improve maternal health outcomes across Sub-Saharan Africa. This argument is presented in an article published today in the Journal of Global Health. "Despite major international concerns around maternal health and efforts to bring up institutional delivery rates, little attention has been given to the need for logistical solutions that bring African women to delivery centres fast," says Peter Byass, epidemiologist at Umea University and co-author of the article. "The halving of pregnancy-related deaths that we saw coincided with an increased availability of free ambulance services in Ethiopia suggests that similar services could be a key innovation for improving maternal and infant health throughout Sub-Saharan Africa." The article describes the health impacts of Ethiopia's national ambulance service programme. The one-year operational assessment was conducted by researchers at Umea University's Centre for Global Health Research along with the Ethiopian Ministry of Health and the Tigray Regional Health Bureau. The assessment compared pregnancy-related deaths before and after programme implementation, including the percentage of deliveries using ambulances, across six randomly selected rural districts of northern Ethiopia. During the period, a total of 51 pregnancy-related deaths and 19,179 live births were reported in the districts. The areas where ambulance services were frequently used for women's obstetric needs saw substantially reduced mortality rates. Districts with above average utilisation of ambulance services had a pregnancy-related mortality rate of 149 per 100,000 live births whereas that same rate was 350 in areas with below average utilisation of ambulance services. The findings are described in an article titled "Can innovative ambulance transport avert pregnancy-related deaths? One-year operational assessment in Ethiopia", published today in the Journal of Global Health. The Ethiopian government's ambulance service is unique in Sub-Saharan Africa. Providing four-wheel drive ambulances in every rural district in the country, the programme includes a total of 1,250 ambulances offering delivery services 24 hours per day, seven days per week. The national ambulance service programme was launched with a USD 50 million investment. Its sustainability is ensured through collaborative financing agreements with regional governments, who agree to make the services available free of charge. ### Madrid Estos son los 80 centros sanitarios que abriran 24 horas en la Comunidad de Madrid desde el 27 de octubre Falling business confidence and healthy consumer credit figures kept Pound Sterling (GBP) exchange rates mixed on Monday. Despite the fact that the UK manufacturing sector has recorded its worst performance since August 2013, the pound vs yen exchange rate remains bullish. Investors continue to desert the Japanese Yen today as the stock markets recover. After yesterdays stock rout caused a surge in demand for the Japanese Yen as a safe-haven asset, the pound to yen exchange rate is making a bullish recovery today as risk aversion calms. With stocks back in the black and traders buying Pound Sterling while the currency is cheap, GBP-JPY is making strong gains. The UK government has released its first official report on the effects of a Brexit on the UK economy and the dovish predictions have helped to keep the GBP to JPY spot rate weak today. According to the report, it could take a decade for the UK to fully extricate itself from the European Union, with ten years of uncertainty having a severe effect upon jobs, financial markets and investment. Lloyds Business Barometer survey registered a significant drop in sentiment in February, with the index falling from 45% to 28%, taking confidence down to a two-year low, although the Pound Sterling (GBP) was unaffected. The GBP exchange rates remained mostly in positive territory thanks to the release of strong consumer credit figures which showed the healthy condition of the UKs lending market. Mortgage approvals were up to a two-year high, partly thanks to buy-to-let landlords attempting to secure properties before additional taxes on the industry are introduced in April. Meanwhile, Consumer Credit grew at the fastest pace for a decade, up 9.1% in January, although the Pound remained deep in negative territory against the Japanese Yen and Turkish Lira. Before we continue with the news, here are today's live FX rates for your reference; On Saturday the Japanese Yen to British Pound exchange rate (JPY/GBP) converts at 0.006 Today finds the pound to japanese yen spot exchange rate priced at 166.939. The GBP to TRY exchange rate converts at 21.022 today. The pound conversion rate (against russian rouble) is quoted at 69.692 RUB/GBP. Please note: the FX rates above, updated 22nd Oct 2022, will have a commission applied by your typical high street bank. Currency brokers specialise in these type of foreign currency transactions and can save you up to 5% on international payments compared to the banks. A fresh drop in global stocks saw the Japanese Yen enter a bullish uptrend as demand for safe-haven assets increased. Disappointing growth-boosting measures from the G20 summit saw investors deserting Chinese stocks again on Monday, with the -2.9% drop in equities cooling risk-appetite across the globe. The FTSE 100 fell -0.6%, the Nikkei -1% and the Hang Seng -1.3%, boosting the Japanese Yen against Pound Sterling as demand for safe-haven assets rose. A better-than-expected increase in housing starts and a shrink in the pace of Construction Order contraction have also helped the rise in the Yen. A shrinking trade deficit helped the Turkish Lira to strengthen on Monday, although the data was not entirely positive. Turkeys trade deficit shrank from -$6.18 billion to -$3.76 billion in January, a result much better than the forecast -$0.5 billion decrease in the balance between imports and exports. The Turkish Lira exchange rate strengthened on the news, although a closer look at the details reveals less-than-favourable results. Exports actually fell to a five-year low, dropping to $9.6 billion, thanks to a massive slump in sales to Russia and Iraq, with the loss of revenue being covered by the current low energy prices. Oil Prices and Economic Sanctions Cut Russian GDP Another slump in Russian GDP has weakened the Rouble, as figures show that the economy contracted -2.5% in January, although this represents a slowdown on the previous rate of recession. On a monthly, seasonally-adjusted basis, Russian GDP printed at -0.1%. The poor growth figures show that the continued slump in global oil prices is weighing heavily on the Russian economy, as are the various sanctions imposed by the US and EU in response to Russias annexing of Crimea from Ukraine. The sanctions include barring EU companies and nationals from trading bonds from major Russian banks, energy and defence companies, as well as banning the export and import of military and energy equipment. The Rand (ZAR) Exchange Rate Continues to Recover Losses Today as Previous Budget Woes Fade Away on Potential Political Union Foreign exchange investors saw the pound to rand exchange rate surge earlier today, at one point up 1.16 per cent compared to the day's opening price. The GBP/ZAR conversion rate has since pulled back, but remains firmly in the green. A new South African leader could bring stability to the country racked by poor economic performance and although yesterdays vote of no confidence was easily defeated, Jacob Zuma has now lost the support of key sections of his own party, raising hopes and firming the Rand slightly after todays large losses. The ongoing battle between Zuma and his Finance Minister, Pravin Gordhan, is causing volatility, but some investors are interpreting this as a good sign, as it shows that Gordhan is standing up to Zuma, rather than being the Yes man Zuma was perhaps looking for. News that South African President Jacob Zuma would face a vote of no confidence in his leadership had seen the Rand trend bullishly against Pound Sterling on the prospect of a new, more responsible, leader. However, the vote was easily defeated, and the pound to rand exchange rate has soared as traders desert the ZAR currency.. Here are some of the key forex conversion rates as a reference: On Saturday the Pound to British Pound exchange rate (GBP/GBP) converts at 1 The pound conversion rate (against pound) is quoted at 1 GBP/GBP. The pound conversion rate (against euro) is quoted at 1.146 EUR/GBP. FX markets see the pound vs us dollar exchange rate converting at 1.13. Please note: the FX rates above, updated 22nd Oct 2022, will have a commission applied by your typical high street bank. Currency brokers specialise in these type of foreign currency transactions and can save you up to 5% on international payments compared to the banks. Attempt to oust controversial South African President Jacob Zuma has failed today An attempt to oust controversial South African President Jacob Zuma has failed today, although the Pound continues to make significant losses against the Rand. A vote of no confidence in Zumas leadership has failed by 225 votes to 99, which hasnt surprised markets considering 62% of the South African parliament is held by Zumas ruling African National Congress (ANC) party. South African President Jacob Zuma will face a vote of no confidence in his leadership when the South African Parliament meets today, with the prospect of the questionable leader being outed pushing ZAR-GBP into a strong advance today. Although Zumas ruling party controls 62% of all seats in the National Assembly, the hope that the vote could trigger a significant change in the South African government has kept the Rand strong, despite figures showing that both quarterly and annual GDP have slowed. The appeal of the South African Rand (ZAR) has increased exponentially today, which goes against a previous week of losses for the South African currency caused by the budget announcement. As of Tuesday, the pound to rand exchange rate trended 0.62 per cent lower. The triggering factor for this advance is thought to be the expectation that President Jacob Zuma may unite his opinions with those of Finance Minister Pravin Gordhan, a week after the latters austere budget delivery. According to Wits Universitys Lumkile Mondi: We need a really strong signal from the president on whether he is in full support of the minister of finance so we can try to quell any volatility that can take place in financial markets, given what we already know and see as a risk. Rand Movement Expected Imminently from PMI Ecostats and Q4 GDP Results In addition to any notable developments or announcements that come out of President Zumas office, the Rand can also expect to be moved by tomorrow mornings Q4 GDP figures and the manufacturing PMI for February. In the former case, predictions are for a mixed outcome, with annual GDP expected to fall from 1% to 0.6% and the quarterly printing forecast to rise from 0.7% to 1% by contrast. For the manufacturing PMI, predictions are for a minor advance from 43.5 to 43.78; although an improvement, this outcome will nonetheless keep the sector in contraction for the foreseeable future. Pound Sterling Makes Sporadic Movement Today on Lengthy Brexit Expectations Sterling has made mixed movement overall today, potentially due to more Brexit news. In the next of a long series of announcements regarding the UK Referendum, the government has put forward an estimate that it will take around 10 years for the UK to properly leave the EU. This development has been met with criticism from both sides of the argument, as Out campaigner Chris Grayling called the estimation ludicrous, while In supporter Nicola Sturgeon advised the PM to move away from a miserablefear-based campaign. Tomorrow morning will see the release of the first UK PMI of the week, which covers manufacturing in February. Current expectations are for a slide from 52.9 to 52.3. US Dollar (USD) Steady ahead of Super Tuesday Drama Ahead of a vital day for the prospects of US presidential hopefuls, the US Dollar exchange rate has balanced its losses with gains today and come out strong against a majority of the competition. According to billionaire investor Warren Buffet, the US economy is far more stable that some may be setting it up to be, particularly calling out campaigning candidates for their negative spin when speaking on the state of the nations finances. Tomorrow is Super Tuesday for the US, a time when a large number of parts of the US vote on the Republican and Democrat candidates for this years presidential election. The radical Donald Trump is a current frontrunner for the Republicans, but an overall victory could see the USD/EUR and USD/GBP exchange rates actually slide due to the uncertainty caused by such an outcome. Ongoing Zuma/Gordhan Feud could damage Long-Term Rand Prospects With the South African President and Finance Minister now facing up to each over the apparent control of the South Africa Revenue Services, a Nomura economist has forecast that the nations currency could deteriorate the longer the feud continues for. Peter Montalto has stated: "We think the market is significantly underestimating the conflict stirring within the ANCthe tenderpreneur faction has not lost and is now fighting back." 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Britain's Prince William The 33-year-old royal will reportedly join his wife, the Duchess of Cambridge, and his brother, Prince Harry, as they all fight to bring mental health issues into the forefront. The Prince - who has two-year-old Prince George and nine-month-old Princess Charlotte with Duchess Catherine - has seen firsthand how these issues can affect people through his work with the charity Centrepoint, PEOPLE magazine reports. Meanwhile, the 34-year-old royal previously spoke up about how mental health can affect children. She said: "Every child deserves to grow up feeling confident that they won't fall at the first hurdle, that they cope with life's setbacks. This resilience - our ability to deal with stressful situations - is something we begin to learn in childhood, as we respond to each challenge and problem life presents. "Many of us are incredibly fortunate that the issues we face in childhood are ones we can cope with and learn from. But for some children, learning to cope with life's challenges can be a struggle. While we cannot always change a child's circumstances, we can give them the tools to cope, and to thrive. With early support they can learn to manage their emotions and feelings and know when to seek help." Britain's Queen Elizabeth is "very pleased" with the set of commemorative china released to mark her 90th birthday. Britain's Queen Elizabeth The 89-year-old royal - who reaches the milestone this year - has given her personal approval of the collection of fine bone china pieces. Ian Grant of the Royal Collection Trust, who made the pieces, said: "Whenever we develop any range of commemorative china we always show it to that member of the royal family before it goes into production because it's very personal. "They have made comments in the past. It's very, very rare that they say, 'No, we don't like that.' When we have received comments, we have always acted on them. The Queen was very pleased." Every detail is thought out with the pieces decorated with flowers - specifically forget-me-nots and cornflowers, which bloom in April and June respectively, the months of the Queen's actual and official birthdays. The cups, saucers and plates are also finished off with 22-carat gold detailing. Meanwhile, one particularly stand-out piece features a quote from the Queen herself, which she made when she was just 21-years-old. It reads: "I declare before you all that my whole life whether it be long or short shall be devoted to your service." The collection goes on sale today (29.02.16) and prices start at 25. Tirupur Exporters Association (TEA) has welcomed the Union Budget presented today by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley.In a press release issued today, TEA President Dr. A. Sakthivel said the Budget has addressed the demands made by the Association. Tirupur Exporters Association (TEA) has welcomed the Union Budget presented today by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley. In a press release issued today, # The TEA chief also welcomed the nine pillars of his Budget - Agriculture and farmers' welfare, rural sector, social sector including healthcare, education, skills and job creation, infrastructure, financial sector reforms, ease of doing business, fiscal discipline, tax reforms to reduce compliance burden.While describing the Union Budget as positive Dr. A. Sakthivel said that the focus of infrastructure and initiatives for Ease of Doing Business will go a long way in improving the economy as well as reducing the transaction cost.The MSME is the back bone of Indian Industry focusing the MSME as well as encouraging the startups will help the economy to achieve the desired GDP growth. He also expressed his happiness on more allocation for skill development fund.However Dr. Sakthivel expressed his concern on the proposal of excise duty of branded readymade garments and made up articles of textiles with the retail sale price of more than Rs.1000. This will adversely affect the industry and will also be difficult to administer, he said.The TEA boss complimented the Finance Minister for allocating Rs.3350 crores for Textile Industry which includes Rs.140 crores for amended TUF and Rs.300 crore for Development of Mega Cluster.Dr. Sakthivel welcomed the reduction of basic customs duty on specified fibers and yarn from 5 per cent to 2.5 per cent and also he said basic customs duty on import of specified fabrics (for manufacture of textile garments for export) of value equivalent to 1 per cent of FOB value of exports in the preceding financial year being exempted subject to the specified condition. (SH) Fibre2Fashion News Desk India In a stunning discovery, a Timna excavation team from Tel Aviv University has uncovered an extensive fabric collection. This is the first discovery of textiles dating from the era of David and Solomon, and sheds new light on the historical fashions of the Holy Land, the Israeli Foreign Ministry said on its website.The ancient copper mines in Timna are located deep in Israel's Arava Valley and are believed by some to be the site of King Solomon's mines. The arid conditions of the mines have seen the remarkable preservation of 3,000-year-old organic materials, including seeds, leather and fabric, and other extremely rare artifacts that provide a unique window into the culture and practices of this period. In a stunning discovery, a Timna excavation team from Tel Aviv University has uncovered an extensive fabric collection. This is the first discovery of# A Timna excavation team from Tel Aviv University led by Dr. Erez Ben-Yosef has uncovered an extensive fabric collection of diverse color, design and origin. This is the first discovery of textiles dating from the era of David and Solomon, and sheds new light on the historical fashions of the Holy Land. The textiles also offer insight into the complex society of the early Edomites, the semi-nomadic people believed to have operated the mines at Timna. The tiny pieces of fabric, some only 5 x 5 centimeters in size, vary in color, weaving technique and ornamentation, the Ministry said."Some of these fabrics resemble textiles only known from the Roman era," said Dr. Orit Shamir, a senior researcher at the Israel Antiquities Authority, who led the study of the fabrics themselves.The rare preservation of organic material opens new research opportunities, which until now were lacking in Biblical sites. As the only fabrics from that period discovered throughout the southern Levant, they are the closest examples we have of how people dressed in the time of David and Solomon. "No textiles have ever been found at excavation sites like Jerusalem, Megiddo and Hazor, so this provides a unique window into an entire aspect of life from which we've never had physical evidence before," Dr. Ben-Yosef said. "We found fragments of textiles that originated from bags, clothing, tents, ropes and cords."The wide variety of fabrics also provides new and important information about the Edomites, who, according to the Bible, fought with the Kingdom of Israel. We found simply woven, elaborately decorated fabrics worn by the upper echelon of their stratified society. Luxury grade fabric adorned the highly skilled, highly respected craftsmen managing the copper furnaces. They were responsible for smelting the copper, which was a very complicated process."Copper was used to produce tools and weapons and was the most valuable resource in ancient societies. Its production required many levels of expertise. Miners in ancient Timna may have been slaves or prisoners - theirs was a simple task performed under difficult conditions. But the act of smelting, of turning stone into metal, required an enormous amount of skill and organization. The smelter had to manage some 30 to 40 variables in order to produce the coveted copper ingots. Swaziland's textile industry is looking to make the most of an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the EU that would allow duty free access to the country 's products, the Times of Swaziland has reported.Swaziland is in the process of ratifying the EPA with the assistance of the EU. The EU's Southern African Development Community Co-ordinator Gijs Berends disclosed that once the EPA is ratified, the country will benefit through shipping its goods to the union without delay. Swaziland's textile industry is looking to make the most of an Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) with the EU that would allow duty free access# An EU delegation which is assisting Swaziland with the process of ratification, organised a workshop in the capital Mbabane on Friday where industry players were made aware of the benefits of the agreement.Through the EPA, Berends said Swaziland would become more competitive and attractive to investors who would be looking at accessing the lucrative EU market.The EPA agreement will liberalise 9,600 products and all the products will enter our market duty-free. It has to be mentioned that this will not be just a temporary trade agreement but a permanent one. We are looking forward to seeing Swaziland becoming a beneficiary from the market as that would positively contribute to its economic development, Berends said.Swaziland's textile industry had taken a hit after it had excluded from the list of countries eligible to get benefit under the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA) of the US Government, with effect from January 1, 2015.The decision to withdraw Swaziland's AGOA eligibility came after years of engaging with the Government of the Kingdom of Swaziland on concerns about its implementation of the AGOA eligibility criteria related to worker rights. (SH) Fibre2Fashion News Desk India Saif Ali Khan, Kangana Ranaut and Shahid Kapoor starrer Rangoon has gathered a lot of attention, since the director Vishal Bhardwaj had announced the film's strong star cast. We have already shared with you many leaked pictures from the sets of Rangoon. Now, we have got our hands on the latest picture of Shahid Kapoor and Kangana Ranaut from the sets of Rangoon. The duo can be seen posing for a selfie along with a fan girl. Shahid Kapoor, who will play a soldier, was seen in his moustache look, while Kangana was looking simply glamorous in her new hairdo. Check out the pictures here: MUST SEE PICS: Shahrukh Khan Meets Sanjay Dutt Post His Release; The Duo Gets Emotional! To all those who don't know, Rangoon co-stars Shahid & Saif hardly talk on the sets while shooting. Once they arrive on the sets, they straight away head towards the van, get ready, do the shoot and zoom off. They aren't even cordial to each other. Well, the reason behind that awkwardness is pretty obvious i.e. none other than Kareena Kapoor Khan. After all, for Shahid, Kareena is his ex and for Saif, his wife. As of now, the film is slated to hit the theatres on September 30, 2016. The Singapore Exchange (SGX) is considering major amendments to its listing rules to promote more retail participation in initial public offerings. According to a consultation paper published by SGX on Friday, the exchange operator intends to require companies seeking to list on the mainboard to allocate at least 10% of shares to retail investors at the time of their IPOs. SGX's rules do not set a mandatory allocation of IPO shares to retail investors now. In 2012, the exchange issued a similar proposal for a minimum allocation of 5% of shares for retail investors, but it did not implement the plan after a public consultation. Now SGX is back with the proposal of a larger, 10% allocation rule. Its intention is to improve market liquidity by encouraging retail participation in IPOs. Regional rival Hong Kong has a similar 10% allocation rule for IPOs, but other Asian bourses do not. To address concerns that a 10% retail allocation may be challenging for companies if the total offer size is too large, SGX has also proposed a cap of S$100 million on the value of shares allocated to the retail tranche. SGX is collecting public feedback until March 24. Restoring market liquidity Singapore has a tough year in terms of new listings last year. The Lion City saw only one mainboard listing BHG Retail REITs S$395 million ($280 million) IPO last year compared to 12 deals in 2014. Total IPO fundraising also dropped significantly, to S$630 million last year from S$3.5 billion a year earlier. Liquidity has always been one of the main concerns of SGX when compared with the Hong Kong stock exchange, the worlds biggest IPO fundraising hub last year and SGXs main competitor in the region. But SGX is confident it can overturn the situation through the introduction of the new regulations. Data collected by SGX shows over 90% of mainboard IPOs between 2010 and 2015 had retail applications exceeding 10% of the total deal size, indicating a substantial retail demand for IPOs. But the demand has not been matched by the supply of shares because institutional investors have been favoured, as they are often seen as longer-term investors. The introduction of the new rule could ensure retail investors get a more significant portion of IPO shares going forward. Loh Boon Chye, SGXs chief executive officer, said the initiative was aimed at giving individuals more investing opportunities in the Singapore equities market and was part of overall enhancements to the Singapore stock market. The former Asia-Pacific head of global markets at Bank of America Merrill Lynch introduced multiple initiatives to restore SGXs global competitiveness since he took over the role of CEO in July last year. On Wednesday SGX confirmed it had submitted a non-binding bid for the acquisition of London-based Baltic Exchange, a major trading platform for shipping contracts and provider of key maritime indices. It is also finalising details of a bilateral trading link with the Taiwan Stock Exchange to allow mutual market access for retail investors. Finance policymakers from the worlds 20 largest economies vowed on Saturday to use a series of policy tools to boost the global economy and avoid currency wars but failed to outline any concrete joint action. The G20 group met in Shanghai seeking to address issues including volatile markets, slumping commodity prices and the UKs potential exit from the European Union. For the members of G20, they should go bold, go broad and go together, said Christine Lagarde, managing director of the International Monetary Fund, at a press conference on Saturday. Instead, they ended up agreeing to press ahead with previous commitments, with a bigger emphasis on a combination of monetary policy, fiscal spending and structural reforms. In its official communique issued on Saturday, the G20 group vowed to use all policy tools monetary, fiscal and structural individually and collectively to strengthen growth, investment and financial stability. However, Germanys finance minister Wolfgang Schaeuble warned against fiscal stimulus, notably government spending, and called for effective structural reforms. The debt-financed growth model has reached its limits. Its even causing new problems and zombifying the economy, he said on Friday at a forum held by the Institute of International Finance (IIF) in conjunction with the G20 meeting. Mulyani Indrawati, chief operating officer at the World Bank, said in a G20 panel discussion on Friday that the key challenge of such reforms was that costs were always immediate while the benefits were in the mid or long-term. She added that they could be unpopular with voters in the West. Meanwhile, Lou Jiwei, Chinas finance minister, said such reforms could be held back in China by vested interests. With global investors looking to the Shanghai meeting for reassurance and action, host nation China and other countries moved to reduce anxiety over market turbulence and currency volatility. The magnitude of recent market volatility has not reflected the underlying fundamentals of the global economy, Lou said at a press conference at the conclusion of the G20 meeting on Saturday. Finance chiefs agreed to inform each other in advance of major changes on policy decisions that could potentially lead to currency wars. Previously they agreed not to devalue currencies to gain competitiveness for exports. There were some concerns of competitive devaluations, Jeroen Dijsselbloem, chairman of euro-zone finance ministers, told reporters on Saturday. Once one country starts, the risk is very large that the next country will follow. Everyone was quite firm that we mustnt go down that road, he added. Beijing, in recent days, has taken steps to improve communication on its economic and financial policies, including public speeches by officials at the Peoples Bank of China and the ministry of finance, in an effort to reassure jittery financial markets that devaluation was not on its agenda. There is no basis for persistent [renminbi] depreciation, Zhou Xiaochuan, the PBoC governor, said on Friday at an IIF conference. While addressing market concerns, he said short-term market volatility will give way to economic fundamentals. Market is sometimes more influenced by the short-term factors. On the fiscal front, finance minister Lou said China had ample room to widen its budget deficit this year to perk up growth, with details subject to approval during the annual meeting of the Chinese legislature in early March. Participants from the IMF, the US and other countries appeared to appreciate Chinas efforts. On the issue of devaluation of the renminbi, I think we heard ourselves loud and clear from the Chinese authorities that theres no intention, no determination, no decision whatsoever to devalue the currency, said Lagarde. The IMF last month cut the global growth forecast for 2016 by 0.2 percentage points to 3.4% and said another downgrade is likely in the coming months. Lagarde urged global policymakers to speed up promised reforms and take collective actions to boost the economy and restore confidence but pointed out she sees a renewed sense of urgency. There was a renewed sense of urgency and collective membership, she said. Members really know they dont have much time left. Haymarket Media Limited. All rights reserved. Citigroup has agreed to sell its 20% shareholding in China Guangfa Bank to China Life Insurance for $3 billion, fine-tuning its business in China as the cost of holding stakes in other banks grows. After a decade-long investment, Citi is selling its Guangfa stake for Rmb6.39 a share, or a total of Rmb19.684 billion, according to a stock exchange filing by China Life on Monday. The cash deal comes as banks globally reassess their equity holdings in the light of new capital rules, which are making it more expensive for banks to own minority stakes in other banks. But Basel III is only part of the story as Citi looks to recalibrate its banking strategy globally. This transaction is consistent with the simplification of Citi and allows us to focus our resources in China on growing our core franchise further, Francisco Aristeguieta, chief executive officer of Citi Asia Pacific, said. In recent years Citi has zoomed in more on affluent consumer banking clients living in cities, selling them a mix of financial products via bank branches and digital platforms. It is a global strategy for the New York-headquartered bank and one it wants implemented in China too. In 2007 Citi was among the first international banks to locally incorporate in China. In 2012, Citi became the first global bank to launch a sole-branded credit card in China. Citi has operations across 13 cities in China. Citi first bought into Guangfa in 2006 for about $620 million when it was known as Guangdong Development Bank, leading a consortium that acquired 85% of the lender. The investment provided Citi with knowledge of the China market. IBM, which formed part of that consortium along with China Life Insurance, Citic Trust, and State Grid, is selling its 3.686% stake to China Life concurrently with Citi for $553.6 million. IPO route closed The sale price for the 20% stake of Rmb6.39 per share represents a multiple of 1.01 times its book value per share, based on Guangfa's net asset book value on December 31 of Rmb97.54 billion. That is broadly in line with other recent bank deals in China, which have closed at a median price-to-book-value ratio of 1.14 times. The agreed price also represents a 15% premium to the average book-price-to-share-price multiple of China A-share-listed commercial banks and a 60% premium over H-share-listed commercial banks, which currently trade at a share price multiple of 0.63 times book value. The Guangfa stake sale is expected to close in the second half of 2016, subject to regulatory approvals. UBS advised China Life while Citi advised itself on the transaction. Citi had hoped to spin off Guangfa via an initial public offering but choppy Chinese stock markets made a trade sale a more viable option. Chinese bank price-to-book ratios a measure of market price relative to net asset value are trading at around their lowest levels since the Asian financial crisis of 1998. The ratio, Bloomberg data shows, rose to as high as 3.5 times in early 2000 and barely touched 1.1 times during the global financial crisis of 2008. Price-to-book ratios are a widely tracked valuation measure for banks and insurance companies alike because they provide some indication of a financial group's ability to use its capital to create value. They also reflect its underlying financial condition relative to its market price. Chinese banking stocks have been hit particularly hard for some time in Hong Kong, trading well below book value due to worries over slowing Chinese economic growth and rising non-performing loans. Citi success Guangzhou City-headquartered Guangfa, which has 759 outlets across the PRC and the Macau Special Administrative Region, lost about $300 million in the year before Citi got involved but made roughly $700 million in the first year after the consortium began running it. "It was a very challenging period, and probably one of the hardest jobs I've ever had," Michael Zink, Citis head of Asean told FinanceAsia when he announced his retirement. Zink was president and executive director of China Guangfa Bank between 2006 and 2010. "Citi learned a lot about operating in China and we made a contribution to turning the bank around." Since then Citi has grown its China business and now employs more than 8,000 people in the country. China is also one of the eight markets in Asia where Citi generates in excess of $1 billion in revenues. The US bank has generated over $2 billion of profit from its investment in Guangfa, but was carrying the stake at book value, so the sale will not be material to earnings. Citi is due to announce its first quarter results on April 15. It's a done deal: Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance agreed to buy MetLife Premier Client Group, the companys U.S. advisor force. MassMutual paid about $300 million, according to Bloomberg. MetLife will be the exclusive developer of certain annuity products issued by MassMutual, the seller said Monday in a regulatory filing. MetLife has wanted to limit government regulations of its businesses, and the insurance company acknowledged last week they were in talks with MassMutual. The Premier Client Group has approximately 4,000 advisors and targets middle to upper-income consumers, including executives at small-to-medium-sized businesses, using 40 local sales and advisory operations across the country. It is expected to be combined with MassMutuals existing Career Agency System, which has more than 5,600 financial advisors. 'MILESTONE EVENT' This is a milestone event in the 165-year history of MassMutual and will result in the transformative creation of a distribution powerhouse, Roger Crandall, MassMutual's CEO said in a statement. According to MetLife chairman Steven Kandarian, the transaction will enable the insurance giant's U.S. retail business "to sharpen its focus on its core strength in product manufacturing, while also providing a broader distribution network through the partnership with MassMutual." The transaction is expected to close by mid-2016, subject to certain closing conditions, including regulatory approval. Last year, MetLife was designated by regulators as a systemically important financial institution, a too-big-to-fail designation that can bring tighter capital rules. A separate U.S. proposal for stricter rules on retirement-product sales is forcing some insurers to evaluate whether they keep broker-dealer operations. Last month, for example, American International Group said it was selling AIG Advisor Group to funds affiliated with Donald Marrons Lightyear Capital and PSP Investments. Additional reporting: Sonali Basak and Katherine Chiglinsky, Bloomberg Read more: DALLAS (dpa-AFX) - AT&T Inc. (T) said that it reached a tentative agreement with the Communications Workers of America in Mobility contract negotiations in CWA District 6 (AT&T's Southwest region). The two sides had on Feb. 26 agreed to a 48-hour contract extension. The agreement, which will be submitted to the union's membership for a ratification vote in coming days, was reached prior to expiration of the extended contract at 11:59 p.m. Central Time Feb. 28. It covers more than 9,400 Mobility employees in Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Texas. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. SEATTLE (dpa-AFX) - Global coffee chain retailer Starbucks is treating its quest for gaining foothold in the land, which boasts of the original coffee culture, as a humble move. Would it appeal to the coffee connoisseurs, who pride themselves in being the best in business? Only time will tell when the U.S. company sets up shop in Milan, an Italian city, in 2017 along with real estate developer Percassi. It should be considered as a natural corollary for a company that found inspiration from the country for its large scale expansion into the global arena. Way back in the 1980s, CEO Howard Schultz's business trip to Milan and Verona inspired him to introduce the Espresso, a coffee prepared by directing small quantities of nearly boiling water under pressure through finely ground coffee beans, in the U.S. The Seattle, Washington based-company founded in 1971, which thus far had a largely mundane existence, with just a few outlets in mostly its native city, began to foray into other regional and international markets. What is so special about having an Italian connection when the company is expanding by leaps and bounds in the rest of the globe? This becomes more of a conundrum for analysts, who have harped about the lukewarm reception it has got in the rest of the European countries it has established itself in. Though Starbucks operates in roughly 20 countries in Europe, roughly a little over 10 percent of the outlets are located in the geography with the acronym EMEA, which also includes the Middle East and Africa. China is touted as its thrust market by the top management , with the retailer opening roughly 500 stores a year in the world's hot-and-happening economy. Italians with their refined tastes and coffee houses of the country that are a coffee aficionado's delight could prove a challenge for the successful coffee chain retailer. However, if the company is successful in drawing the Italians favorably towards it, it will be a victory of sorts. It remains to be seen if the Italians thaw and embrace Starbucks with a 'Benvenuti in Italia' phrase or treat it with the contempt for intruding into an arena, which is their prerogative. Until then, it is a 'wait and watch' move.Heading into 2017, for Starbucks, all roads will lead to Rome, as it strives to carve a niche for itself in the uncharted territory. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Kostenloser Wertpapierhandel auf Smartbroker.de MIAMI, FL -- (Marketwired) -- 02/29/16 -- Metrospaces, Inc. (OTC PINK: MSPC) announces approval of Unanimous Board Resolution prohibiting any reverse stock splits of its common stock for at least a year. Mr. Oscar Brito, Company CFO stated: On Friday February 26th, of 2016 Metrospaces approved a unanimous board resolution prohibiting any reverse stock splits of its common stock without the majority approval of Independent Shareholders until at least February 28th of 2017. Independent shareholders are defined as any Metrospaces common shareholders not including management, directors or affiliates. For a company Fact Sheet: https://db.tt/RojE1mC5 About Metrospaces: Metrospaces www.metrospaces.net is a publicly traded real estate private equity which acquires land, designs, builds, and develops then resells condominiums and Luxury High-End Hotels, principally in urban areas Latin America. It also invests in companies operating in the real estate industry. The company's current projects are located in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and Caracas, Venezuela. Six years ago Metrospaces shareholders saw a unique opportunity to participate in several exciting property markets around the world. Through their worldwide network of highly recognized real estate entrepreneurs, the company was able to capitalize on unique real estate development opportunities. Since inception the company has leveraged those relationships along with extensive financial expertise and transformed excellence by results. Metrospaces is a boutique real estate development company, a product of the alliance of Metrospaces shareholders, along with an elite group of real estate professionals and entrepreneurs located around the world. Company shareholders have extensive careers in real estate financing worldwide, and have funded projects both in the Americas and across Europe valued in excess of US $450 Million. Metrospaces' majority shareholders have partnered with Investors on Elite properties including The London BLVGARI 5 Star Hotel, and are currently involved in negotiations for the development of several Elite luxury properties in South America. Among Metrospaces partners are Architects, Real Estate Developers, Agents and Attorneys of the highest standing, with extensive experience in the global property market. Metrospaces was originally founded by company President Oscar Brito. Relevant Links: http://metrospaces.net/ http://www.prohotels.com/ http://www.ikal1150.com Safe Harbor Statement: Statements in this news release may be "forward-looking statements". Forward-looking statements include, but are not limited to, statements that express our intentions, beliefs, expectations, strategies, predictions or any other statements relating to our future activities or other future events or conditions. These statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections about our business based, in part, on assumptions made by management. These statements are not guarantees of future performance and involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions that are difficult to predict. Therefore, actual outcomes and results may, and are likely to, differ materially from what is expressed or forecasted in forward-looking statements due to numerous factors. Any forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release and Metrospaces Inc. undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this news release. Metrospaces Inc. 305-600-0407 Investor Relations: investors@metrospaces.net www.metrospaces.net TORONTO, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 02/29/16 -- Cordoba Minerals Corp. ("Cordoba") (TSX VENTURE: CDB), is pleased to announce that High Power Exploration Inc. ("HPX"), a private mineral exploration company indirectly controlled by mining entrepreneur Robert Friedland, has fully exercised its three-year, C$0.20-per-share warrants granted on June 17, 2015, providing Cordoba with proceeds of C$1,460,000. "The early exercise of warrants by HPX is a strong vote of confidence in our highly prospective San Matias Copper Gold Project in Colombia, where we believe the potential exists to find a world-class discovery. We have a tremendous partner in HPX, that is leveraging its leading-edge, proprietary geophysical technology at San Matias with an experienced team of explorationists who, collectively, have discovered numerous significant orebodies," commented Mr. Stifano, President and CEO of Cordoba. With the exercise of the warrants, HPX now has control over approximately 32.4 million common shares, representing 37.3% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Cordoba. About San Matias Project The newly discovered San Matias Copper-Gold Project in Colombia comprises a 20,000-hectare land package on the inferred northern extension of the prolific and richly-endowed Mid Cauca Belt. The San Matias Project area contains several known areas of porphyry copper-gold mineralization, copper-gold replacement or skarn style and vein-hosted gold-copper mineralization. Porphyry mineralization at the San Matias Project incorporates high-grade zones of copper-gold mineralization hosted by diorite porphyries that contain strong potassic-style alteration and various orientations of sheeted and stockwork quartz-magnetite veins with chalcopyrite-bornite mineralization and minor zones of K-feldspar within vein margins and secondary biotite. The copper-gold replacement or skarn-style mineralization is associated with stratabound replacement of a marine volcano-sedimentary geological sequence in the core of a faulted antiformal fold structure. The nature of mineralization and related alteration encountered at San Matias is similar to other large, high-grade copper-gold deposits. About Cordoba Minerals Cordoba Minerals Corp. is a Toronto-based mineral exploration company focused on the exploration and acquisition of copper and gold projects in Colombia. Cordoba currently owns 100% of the highly prospective San Matias Project, located near operating open-pit mines with ideal topography in the Department of Cordoba. Cordoba has entered into an agreement with HPX, whereby HPX can earn up to a 65% interest in the San Matias Project by carrying the project to feasibility. For further information, please visit www.cordobaminerals.com. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This news release includes certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements include predictions, projections and forecasts and are often, but not always, identified by the use of words such as "seek", "anticipate", "believe", "plan", "estimate", "forecast", "expect", "potential", "project", "target", "schedule", budget" and "intend" and statements that an event or result "may", "will", "should", "could" or "might" occur or be achieved and other similar expressions and includes the negatives thereof. All statements other than statements of historical fact included in this release, including, without limitation, statements regarding the potential of the Company's properties 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. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of material factors and assumptions. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Company's expectations include actual exploration results, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be refined, future metal prices, availability of capital and financing on acceptable terms, general economic, market or business conditions, uninsured risks, regulatory changes, delays or inability to receive required approvals, and other exploration or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the filings made by the Company with securities regulators. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events or results to differ materially from those anticipated. There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate and accordingly readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements which speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation, except to the extent required by law, to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. Contacts: Cordoba Minerals Mario Stifano President and CEO +1 416-862-5253 info@cordobamineralscorp.com WASHINGTON (dpa-AFX) - Crude oil prices were flat Monday morning amid further signs that major producers are nearing a deal to freeze output. Nigerian oil minister Emmanuel Ibe Kachikwu told CNBC that 'there is a lot of conversation going on and there's a lot of consensus building on the issue of the freeze.' He says Saudi Arabia and Russia are in on the plan. April crude oil was up 2 cents at $32.85 a barrel. At 10 am ET, the National Association of Realtors is scheduled to release its U.S. pending home sales report for January. Copyright RTT News/dpa-AFX Werbehinweise: Die Billigung des Basisprospekts durch die BaFin ist nicht als ihre Befurwortung der angebotenen Wertpapiere zu verstehen. Wir empfehlen Interessenten und potenziellen Anlegern den Basisprospekt und die Endgultigen Bedingungen zu lesen, bevor sie eine Anlageentscheidung treffen, um sich moglichst umfassend zu informieren, insbesondere uber die potenziellen Risiken und Chancen des Wertpapiers. Sie sind im Begriff, ein Produkt zu erwerben, das nicht einfach ist und schwer zu verstehen sein kann. Zurich (ots) - As of April 11th 2016, Marcin Boroszko (50) will take over as Chief Executive Officer of Media Impact Polska and also Chief Sales Officer of Onet-RAS Polska Group.Marcin Boroszko will also join the Group Executive Board of Grupa Onet-RAS Polska to further improve cooperation between companies within the Group.Mark Dekan, Onet-RAS Polska Group CEO: " I am very happy that such a great professional, with vast knowledge and experience on the market, is joining our team. Considering the fact that one of Onet-RAS Polska Group's priorities is video, Marcin's expertise will be priceless and together we are going to take the company to the new level of commercial success. I wish Marcin all the best for his new role and welcome him to the team"Jacek Dziecielak, current MiP CEO, will join the Supervisory Board of Media Impact Polska and will stay closely connected to the Group Onet-RAS Polska.Mark Dekan, Onet-RAS Polska Group CEO: "I would like to thank Jacek for his great work in setting up Media Impact Polska and leading it through the transformation into a successful media sales house in Poland. I am very much looking forward to continue the cooperation with him now on the SVB level."Marcin Boroszko entered the media market in Poland in 1998 as Sales Director at Radio Zet (RRM). Before joining AtMedia in 2000 (TV broker), he used to work for G+J Polska as General Commercial Director. He was managing AtMedia Polska as Vice-Presiedent, and later President and CEO for 10 years, and in 2010 he became CEO of AtMedia Group. Marcin Boroszko graduated from Arabic Philology at Warsaw University and he also finished General Management Program 5 at Harvard Business School.About Ringier Axel Springer Media AGRingier Axel Springer Media AG was founded in 2010 by the Swiss Ringier AG and the German Axel Springer SE and bundles the activities of both shareholders in Central and Eastern Europe. The company operates in the growth markets of Poland, Hungary, Serbia and Slovakia with a broad range of media services, comprising more than 160 digital and print offerings. The company's registered offices are in Zurich and it employs a total of about 3000 employees.Originaltext: Ringier Axel Springer Media AG digital press kits: http://www.presseportal.de/nr/105327 press kits via RSS: http://www.presseportal.de/rss/pm_105327.rss2Press contact: Alexandra Delvenakiotis Group Director Communications and Public Affairs Director Digital Media Campus Ringier Axel Springer Media AG Phone +41 44 267 29 14 a.delvenakiotis@ringieraxelspringer.com www.ringieraxelspringer.com NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION IN WHOLE OR IN PART, IN, INTO OR FROM ANY JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD CONSTITUTE A VIOLATION OF THE RELEVANT LAWS OF SUCH JURISDICTION Premier Farnell PLC (the "Company") 29 February 2016 Publication of Circular and Notice of General Meeting relating to the proposed disposal of Akron Brass Holding Corp. On 5 February 2016, the Company announced that it had entered into a conditional agreement with respect to the sale of Akron Brass Holding Corp. ("Akron Brass") to IDEX Corporation for cash consideration of US$224.2 million (the "Disposal"). The Company is pleased to announce that a circular to shareholders relating to the Disposal (the "Circular") has been published today. The Circular will be sent to the Company's shareholders shortly and is available for viewing on the Company's website (http://www.premierfarnell.com/investors/akron-brass-disposal). The Circular, which has been approved by the UK Listing Authority, contains a notice convening a general meeting of the Company to be held at the offices of Allen & Overy LLP at One Bishops Square, London, E1 6AD at 9:30 a.m. on 16 March 2016 (the "General Meeting"). Completion of the Disposal remains conditional on, amongst other things, the approval of the Company's shareholders at the General Meeting. Further details of the Disposal are set out in the Circular, which includes the Board's unanimous recommendation that shareholders vote in favour of the Disposal. Completion of the Disposal is expected by the end of March 2016. In accordance with Listing Rule 9.6.1R, a copy of the Circular and the accompanying form of proxy have been submitted to the National Storage Mechanism and will shortly be available for inspection at www.morningstar.co.uk/uk/NSM. In addition, the Circular will be available for inspection during normal business hours on any weekday (public holidays excepted) at the registered offices of the Company at Farnell House, Forge Lane, Leeds, LS12 2NE and at the offices of Allen & Overy LLP at One Bishops Square, London, E1 6AD from the date of the Circular up to and including the date of the General Meeting and for the duration of the General Meeting. For further information, please contact: Premier Farnell plc +44 (0)20 7851 4107 Mark Whiteling, Interim Chief Executive Officer Helen Willis, Interim Chief Financial Officer Lazard & Co., Limited (Lead Financial Adviser)+44 (0)20 7187 2000 Nicholas Shott Cyrus Kapadia Vasco Litchfield Barclays Bank PLC, acting through its Investment Bank (Sponsor and Financial Adviser) Mark Astaire +44 (0)20 3134 5180 Alex de Souza +44 (0)20 3134 1063 Nicola Tennent +44 (0)20 3134 9801 Cautionary statement Lazard & Co. Limited (Lazard), which is authorised and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority, is acting exclusively as lead financial adviser to the Company and for no one else in connection with the matters described in this announcement and will not regard any other person (whether or not a recipient of this announcement) as a client in connection with the matters described in this announcement and is not, and will not be, responsible to anyone other than the Company for providing the protections afforded to clients of Lazard nor for providing advice in connection with the matters set out in this announcement or any transaction, arrangement or other matter referred to in this announcement. Barclays Bank PLC (Barclays), which is authorised by the Prudential Regulation Authority and regulated in the United Kingdom by the Financial Conduct Authority and the Prudential Regulation Authority, is acting exclusively for the Company and for no one else in connection with the matters described in this announcement and will not regard any other person (whether or not a recipient of this announcement) as a client in connection with the matters described in this announcement and is not, and will not be, responsible to anyone other than the Company for providing the protections afforded to clients of Barclays nor for providing advice in connection with the matters set out in this announcement or any transaction, arrangement or other matter referred to in this announcement. Other important notices The release, publication or distribution of this announcement in jurisdictions other than the United Kingdom may be restricted by law and therefore any persons who are subject to the laws of any jurisdiction other than the United Kingdom should inform themselves about, and observe, any applicable requirements. This announcement has been prepared for the purposes of complying with the UK Listing Rules and the information disclosed may not be the same as that which would have been disclosed if this announcement had been prepared in accordance with laws and regulations of any jurisdiction outside of England. This announcement is not intended to, and does not constitute, or form part of, any offer to sell or an invitation to purchase or subscribe for any securities or a solicitation of any vote or approval in any jurisdiction. Shareholders are advised to read carefully the formal documentation in relation to the Disposal once it has been despatched. Any response to the proposals should be made only on the basis of the information in the formal documentation to follow. END GENEVA and STUTTGART, Germany, February 29, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Tom Anliker appointed Vice-President Marketing and Sales Europe appointed Vice-President Marketing and Sales Europe World premiere of BORGWARD BX5 and BX6 TS in Geneva Stuttgart automobile manufacturer Borgward is to produce cars in Germany once again. "BORGWARD is fully aware of its responsibilities as a German company and of its own tradition of success. We will therefore be making a decision regarding our production location in Germany before the year is out," said Ulrich Walker, CEO of BORGWARD Group AG, in the run-up to the Geneva International Motor Show on Monday evening. BORGWARD celebrated the world premiere of two new models in Geneva: the BX5 and the BX6 TS. The company is currently conducting a feasibility study to scrutinize potential locations, supply chains and processes. He also confirmed that the group remains fully committed to its objectives: sales to rise to over 500,000 units a year in the medium term; and market launch in German-speaking countries to take place at the end of 2017. "We only start with plug-in hybrids and purely electric vehicles on the German and other European markets, and these at attractive prices," said Walker. The purely electric vehicles will have a highly competitive range of over 250 kilometres. In addition BORGWARD is aiming for an initial public offering in Frankfurt within the near future. BORGWARD Group AG also announced that Tom Anliker, 53, has been appointed Vice-President Marketing and Sales Europe as of 1 March 2016. He has over 20 years of professional experience in the automotive sector, including management appointments at major premium carmakers as well as volume manufacturers. Most recently, Anliker was Managing Director at Volvo Car Switzerland. Further information BORGWARD Group AG Kriegsbergstrasse 11 70174 Stuttgart, Germany Marco Dalan Head of Global Communications Telephone +49-711-365101041 e-mail marco.dalan@borgward.com http://www.borgward.com OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 02/29/16 -- Canadian artists have once again made their mark at one of the motion picture industry's most prestigious award ceremonies. I am proud of everyone working in the arts in Canada; they are among the most talented and creative people in the world. Yesterday evening, at the 88th Academy Awards ceremony in Hollywood, a Canadian took top honours and walked off with a coveted Oscar statuette. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy earned the Oscar in the category Documentary (Short Subject) for her film A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness. At the technical awards ceremony on February 13, David McIntosh, Steve Marshall Smith, Mike Branham and Mike Kirilenko were recognized for the engineering and development of the Aircover Inflatables Airwall. I congratulate our Canadian winners and applaud their excellent work. I would also like to salute all the Canadians who were nominated this year. I would also like to congratulate Brie Larson, who won the Oscar for Actress in a Leading Role for the film Room, a Canada-Ireland co-production. Our government knows that Canada's audiovisual industry contributes to the vitality of our culture and represents an important sector of our economy. In 2014-15, the total volume of film and television production in Canada was $7.1 billion, including $2.96 billion in Canadian production alone. Visit oscar.go.com (English only) for more details about the ceremony. Stay Connected Follow us on Twitter, YouTube, Facebook, Instagram and Flickr. Contacts: Pierre-Olivier Herbert Press Secretary Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage 819-997-7788 PLANO, Texas, 2016-02-29 19:30 CET (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AREVA Med, with roots in France and the U.S., has selected two top design schools - French Ecole Superieure de Design Troyes and U.S. Art Institute Dallas Texas - to work on key elements of its new high-purity lead-212 (212Pb) production facility under construction in Plano, Texas.Five teams composed of 35 students from both schools will work on design proposals for the lobby, conference room, and "monument sign" in front of the building. AREVA Med will assess the projects and select the best design for this state-of-the-art facility. The winning team will see the results of their project at the opening ceremony.Patrick Bourdet, CEO of AREVA Med said: "This project is symbolic of AREVA Med's innovative and collaborative spirit and, demonstrates our commitment to the local community and our willingness to facilitate exchanges between people from different cultures. This is also an excellent way for students to work on a real project and see the tangible results of their accomplishments."Heather Carter, Interior Design Program Coordinator at the Art Institute of Dallas, said: "Understanding global perspectives is one of the professional standards our students must meet as part of our interior design program. This collaboration with French peers will give our students an opportunity to develop their knowledge of another culture and they are excited to work with other programs and nations in blended teams. It is a very positive undertaking, and we appreciate AREVA Med for initiating it."Severine Nomdedeu, Director of Ecole Superieure de Design Troyes, added: "Managing practical projects is at the heart of our strategy. Made possible by AREVA Med, the collaboration with the Art Institute of Dallas represents a tremendous opportunity to exchange, share, and create, and is in line with the transcultural opening that we hope to bring to our students and the way we teach design."More information at www.arevamed.com, http://www.groupe-esc-troyes.com/, and https://www.artinstitutes.edu/dallas/Programs/Interior-Design/447More about AREVA MedAREVA Med is the AREVA Group medical subsidiary formed in 2009 to develop new therapies to fight cancer. AREVA Med has developed a unique process to extract lead-212 (212Pb), a rare metal used in targeted alpha therapy (TAT), a novel approach which targets and destroys cancer cells, while limiting the impact on nearby healthy cells. AREVA Med collaborates with world-renowned scientific partners, and formed a strategic global alliance with Roche in 2012, to create a new advanced alpha radioimmunotherapy platform. For more information: www.arevamed.com. Follow @AREVAmed on Twitter.Press ContactsAREVA Med Alison Tise (301) 841-1673 Alison.Tise@areva.com @AREVAmed Technavio's latest report on the global textile machinery marketprovides an analysis on the most important trends expected to impact the market outlook from 2016-2020. Technavio defines an emerging trend as a factor that has the potential to significantly impact the market and contribute to its growth or decline. The top three emerging trends driving the global textile machinery market according to Technavio heavy industry research analysts are: Automation in textile machinery Growing popularity of spinning machinery in India Overseas demand for Spanish machinery Automation in textile machinery According to the research report by Technavio, automation plays a crucial role in improving the quality and cost-competitiveness of textiles. Automated textile machinery accelerates textile production and increases the flow rate of fabric, enabling lean manufacturing. Automation plays a significant role in fiber manufacturing, yarn manufacturing, weaving, dyeing, and finishing processes. "Automating the manufacturing processes should reduce labor cost and manual handling of machines significantly, and avoid shop-floor mishaps. This will result in the development of superior quality products," says Anju Ajaykumar, a lead analyst at Technavio forengineering tools research. Staubli, headquartered in Switzerland, is a mechatronics solution provider to the textile, connectors, and robotics industry. The company provides automated knitting solutions through the DEIMO product line. Nagata Seiki, a Japan-based industrial hosiery knitting machines manufacturer, launched a new range of fully automatic toe-linking machine model, UT1 (Universal Toe) in September 2014. Growing popularity of spinning machinery in India The textile industry in India has only a few players due to high entry barriers such capital-intensiveness and patented technology. As of April 2015, the textile industry had an overall capacity of 50 million spindles, of which nearly 45 million are operational. Despite the oversupply of textiles in the country, the textile industry is planning to increase their spinning capacity, as it expects increased demand from domestic demand as well as export activities to Europe and the US. Technavio expect that spinning capacity in India to develop, as the country has high cotton export demand. More than 10%-15% capacity will likely be added in the next year. This creates a positive scenario for the domestic spinning machinery manufacturing industry. "The Textile Machinery Manufacturers Association of India notes that replacement demand for spindles will increase considerably over the next five years. Moreover, rising spinning machinery exports to Myanmar, Bangladesh, Vietnam, Turkey, Pakistan, Indonesia, and Cambodia will drive sales and market revenue," says Anju. Overseas demand for Spanish machinery The Spanish textile machinery manufacturers are gradually making a mark in the global market as they develop the latest technologies in areas such as braiding, technical fabric, spinning, finishing, dyeing, and printing. These manufacturers also manufacture customized machines and are also exporting over 80% of their production. They are focused on R&D, and are known for their defining characteristics such as adaptation, innovation, specialization, quality, and flexibility. Some of the key developments by the manufacturers in the market are: Galan textile machinery has introduced heavy duty ring doubling and twisting machines. The ring diameter ranges from 100 mm to 400 mm, along with the two-for-one twisters and heavy duty precision cross winders for the production of cylindrical or conical bobbins. Talleres Ratera has been focusing on research and technological development in braiding industry and its product line includes 350 different models. It has emerged as a market leader in this field exporting its products to 120 countries worldwide. Browse Related Reports: Global Smart Textiles Market for Military 2015-2019 Technical Textiles Market in the EU 2015-2019 Global Technical Textiles Market 2015-2019 Purchase these three reports for the price of one by becoming a Technavio subscriber. Subscribing to Technavio's reports allows you to download any three reports per month for the price of one. Contact enquiry@technavio.com with your requirements and a link to our subscription platform. About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. The company develops over 2000 pieces of research every year, covering more than 500 technologies across 80 countries. Technavio has about 300 analysts globally who specialize in customized consulting and business research assignments across the latest leading edge technologies. Technavio analysts employ primary as well as secondary research techniques to ascertain the size and vendor landscape in a range of markets. Analysts obtain information using a combination of bottom-up and top-down approaches, besides using in-house market modeling tools and proprietary databases. They corroborate this data with the data obtained from various market participants and stakeholders across the value chain, including vendors, service providers, distributors, re-sellers, and end-users. If you are interested in more information, please contact our media team at media@technavio.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160229006030/en/ Contacts: Technavio Research Jesse Maida US: +1 630-333-9501 UK: +44 208 123 1770 Media Marketing Executive www.technavio.com Technavio has announced the top five leading vendors in their recentglobal unmanned sea system marketreport. This research report also lists 10 other prominent vendors that are expected to impact the market during the forecast period. Competitive vendor landscape As of 2015, only a few vendors dominate the unmanned sea system market. However, shift in market dynamics from developed to emerging nations and change in nature of military procurement, will create difficulties for the leading vendors in the value chain. Thus, it is highly imperative for vendors to adjust their market presence and outlook as per the evolving demand in the market. "The uncertain procurement of the unmanned sea system amid the economic downturn in Europe and defense budget cut in the US can lead to intense market pressure for the unmanned sea system manufacturers," says Abhay Singh, lead defense analyst at Technavio. To maintain market share and competitiveness, major vendors should keep track of market dynamics and changing demands of customers. In addition, they should be capable of providing rapid, innovative solutions in the ever-changing military systems market. For instance, collection of oceanographic data is a growing need for navies. Oceanography contributes to situational awareness of the undersea environment, gives information superiority, and helps in informed decision-making. Thus, vendors should focus on developing UUVs that are capable of oceanographic data collection or any such possible applications as per the requirement. Request sample report: http://goo.gl/eP18YA Top five unmanned sea system market vendors Atlas Elektronik Atlas Elektronik is headquartered in Bremen, Germany and was founded in 1902. The company offers naval electronics such as combat systems and sonars for submarines and surfaces combatants, minehunting systems, and unmanned underwater vehicles. The company is a joint venture of ThyssenKrupp and Airbus. They have offices in Canada, Finland, India, Denmark, the UK, US, Korea, UAE, and Australia. BAE Systems BAE Systems was incorporated in 1979 and is headquartered in London, UK. The company operates as a defense, aerospace, and security company worldwide. They develop and manufacture products and systems to protect national security, deliver military capability, and keep critical information and infrastructure secure. The company had 83,400 employees. In 2014, they generated a revenue of USD 26.33 billion and spent USD 2.21 billion on R&D. GD GD was founded in 1952 and is headquartered in Falls Church, Virginia. The company operates businesses in the areas of aviation, shipbuilding, combat, marine, and defense systems and ammunition. As of December 2014, the company had approximately 99,500 employees in its offices and recorded a revenue of USD 30.85 billion. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Marine Machinery Engine Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Marine Machinery Engine was established in 1884 and is headquartered in Nagasaki, Japan. The company manufactures industrial and marine machinery. They operate as a subsidiary of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. As of April, 2015, the company had 267 employees. Raytheon Raytheon was founded in 1922 and is headquartered in Massachusetts, US. The company develops technologically integrated products, services, and solutions for sensing; command, control, communications, and intelligence; mission support; and cyber and information security. As of FY2014, they employed around 61,000 people, invested USD 500 million in R&D, and generated a revenue of USD 22.82 billion. Browse Related Reports: Global Offshore Patrol Vessel Market 2015-2019 Global Military Communication Market: Forecast and Research Analysis 2015-2019 Global Military Helicopter MRO Market 2016-2020 Purchase these three reports for the price of one by becoming a Technavio subscriber. Subscribing to Technavio's reports allows you to download any three reports per month for the price of one. Contact enquiry@technavio.com with your requirements and a link to our subscription platform. About Technavio Technavio is a leading global technology research and advisory company. The company develops over 2000 pieces of research every year, covering more than 500 technologies across 80 countries. Technavio has about 300 analysts globally who specialize in customized consulting and business research assignments across the latest leading edge technologies. Technavio analysts employ primary as well as secondary research techniques to ascertain the size and vendor landscape in a range of markets. Analysts obtain information using a combination of bottom-up and top-down approaches, besides using in-house market modeling tools and proprietary databases. They corroborate this data with the data obtained from various market participants and stakeholders across the value chain, including vendors, service providers, distributors, re-sellers, and end-users. If you are interested in more information, please contact our media team at media@technavio.com. View source version on businesswire.com: http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20160229006073/en/ Contacts: Technavio Research Jesse Maida Media Marketing Executive US: +1 630 333 9501 UK: +44 208 123 1770 www.technavio.com LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY -- (Marketwired) -- 02/29/16 -- HAI Heli-Expo - Note to editors: There is a photo associated with this press release. Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) today announced that it has extended the basic time between overhaul (TBO) for its PW210 turboshaft engines from 3,500 to 4,000 hours. This will increase time-on-wing and reduce maintenance costs by over 10 percent for operators. The extension applies to all PW210 engines currently in service and those to be produced in the future. P&WC is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. (NYSE: UTX). In an effort to offer greater value to its helicopter customers, P&WC is also deploying additional commercial initiatives that will reduce direct maintenance costs (DMC) by up to 15 percent for operators with very short missions. These initiatives will enable further savings under P&WC's Eagle Service Plan (ESP) program and Fleet Management Program (FMP) solution. This is just the latest in P&WC's ongoing efforts to support its customers with solutions that lower DMC and deliver bottom-line value. "We understand the importance of reducing costs for our customers," said Irene Makris, Vice President, Marketing, P&WC. "The PW210 has been designed for low maintenance and maximum availability. In addition to the 4,000-hour TBO, its benefits include no scheduled oil changes, no scheduled borescope or vibration checks and an easily accessible and integrated nozzle for compressor wash, all of which make it simpler to maintain and reduce maintenance expenses." More PW210-Powered Aircraft to Enter Service The PW210 is P&WC's latest family of helicopter engines and is fast proving itself to be an industry leader. Its strong performance and reliability are among the reasons P&WC is able to extend the TBO. They are also why more and more operators worldwide are choosing this engine in fields of all kinds, including emergency medical services, journalistic missions, VIP transport, power line inspections and oil and gas industry applications. It has already made successful entries into service as the engine of choice for Finmeccanica's AW169 in December 2015 and for the Sikorsky S-76D in January 2014. Raising the industry bar for a clean-sheet engine design, it has flawlessly accumulated close to 10,000 flight hours on the S-76D helicopter. National Helicopter Services Limited (NHSL), based in Trinidad and Tobago, operates five Sikorsky S-76D aircraft powered by PW210S engines and is the fleet leader. It has accumulated close to 5,000 flight hours since entering into service. Entries into service will accelerate in 2016, with a number of operators set to begin flying PW210-powered helicopters this year. "We continue to find homes for the PW210 with new customers and platforms and to cross new boundaries as it establishes its pedigree around the world," noted Makris. Innovative New Technologies The PW210 is shaping a new generation of intermediate- and medium-class twin-engine helicopters, setting exceptional standards in fuel efficiency, power-to-weight ratio and operating economics. With every aspect of the engine designed with the customer in mind, the PW210 delivers a wide range of power options. It is elegantly simple in concept, with only five major rotating components. The PW210 engine also doubles as an auxiliary power unit (APU), powering electrical, heating and cooling systems while the aircraft is on the ground, with a locked or disengaged main rotor - saving the cost and weight of a third engine. The engine features dual channel full authority digital engine control (FADEC) that raises the bar for ease of pilot operation and maintenance diagnostics. Engine information can be downloaded from the FADEC and engine memory storage device to P&WC's standard ground-station software, a powerful tool linked to P&WC's online interactive publications and diagnostic tool, Spotlight. Spotlight provides simple, guided troubleshooting through an interactive interface integrated with P&WC's maintenance manuals. A Global Leader in Turboshaft Performance and Customer Support Today, P&WC's PW200 turboshaft family is the industry frontrunner in the 600 to 1,100 shaft horsepower (shp) class. The new PW210 sets high standards in fuel efficiency, power-to-weight ratio and operating economics. Similarly, P&WC's PT6 turboshaft family delivers the best value for all types of missions in the 1,000+ shp class and is the number-one choice of customers for medium- and super-medium helicopters. The engine's performance is backed by the most extensive customer service network in the world. Round-the-clock support, provided by the company's Customer First (CFirst) Centres, sets the industry benchmark for rapid, real-time customer support. "P&WC constantly demonstrates its ability to deliver the right services and solutions to customers that have a positive impact on their bottom line," noted Makris. Come and see us at HAI Heli-Expo, booth #1817. Interested operators are invited to drop by P&WC's booth to speak with a customer service representative. About Pratt & Whitney Canada Founded in 1928, P&WC is a global leader in aerospace that is shaping the future of aviation with dependable, high-technology engines. Based in Longueuil, Quebec (Canada), P&WC is a wholly owned subsidiary of United Technologies Corp. United Technologies Corp, based in Farmington, Connecticut, provides high-technology systems and services to the global aerospace and building systems industries. Note to Editors For more information, visit our media page at http://www.pwc.ca/hai-media-kit. Follow P&WC on Twitter (https://twitter.com/pwcanada) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/PrattWhitneyCanada) to receive our latest news and updates. To view the photo associated with this press release, please visit the following link: http://www.marketwire.com/library/20160229-PW210A_800.jpg Contacts: Melanie Bernard Pratt & Whitney Canada +1-438-994-6699 melanie.bernard@pwc.ca www.pwc.ca LOS ANGELES, CA--(Marketwired - February 29, 2016) - Xebec, Cohen Asset Management, funds managed by Oaktree Capital Management, L.P. ("Oaktree") and the pension fund of the Berlin dentists ("VZB"), are pleased to announce the development of 3200 Fruitland Ave., a 302,000 square foot state-of-the-art industrial building located in Vernon, CA. The 14.5 acre site was acquired in February 2016. The site is currently going through the construction permitting process and has been preleased to a Company that recycles post-consumer polyethylene terephthalate ("PET") plastic water and soda bottles to manufacture PET packaging products. The building will have state-of-the-art features that include a 36-foot clear height, ESFR sprinkler system and 32 dock doors. "The size and location of the property near Downtown Los Angeles, as well as having a tenant in tow, made this a compelling opportunity," stated Randy Kendrick, CEO of Xebec. 3200 Fruitland Ave. is strategically located in the prime Central Los Angeles submarket, one of the tightest industrial submarkets in Southern California with a reported overall vacancy rate of 2%. Both Bradley Cohen and Randy Kendrick, the principals of Cohen and Xebec, agree that "this site is currently one of the premier infill opportunities in Los Angeles and are pleased to have acquired the site." The site is ideally located with excellent freeway access to the Interstate 5, 10, 110 and 710. For more information about this and other projects currently under development, please visit www.XebecRealty.com/Projects or follow us on Twitter @XebecRealty. About Xebec: Xebec is a private, vertically integrated real estate firm that focuses on the acquisition, development and management of warehouse and distribution facilities located in top tier logistics markets in the western U.S. with major port and intermodal infrastructure. The genesis of Xebec dates back to 1986, with a focus on infill industrial development in the highly competitive central market of Los Angeles. In 1996, Randy Kendrick and John Lehr formed Xebec and have since built the firm into one of the top industrial developers in Southern California. These principals provide long term and stable management with more than 60 years of combined experience in acquisition, development, finance and asset management. Learn more about Xebec at www.XebecRealty.com About Cohen Asset Management': Cohen Asset Management, Inc. is a private real estate investment firm that is headquartered in Southern California with a regional office in Northern New Jersey. We are in the business of acquiring, owning, developing and managing industrial properties and have an established history as a real estate owner and active operator with our primary focus being the industrial real estate sector. For additional information, please visit Cohen Asset Management, Inc.'s website at www.cohenasset.com About Oaktree: Oaktree is a leader among global investment managers specializing in alternative investments, with $97 billion in assets under management as of December 31, 2015. The firm emphasizes an opportunistic, value-oriented and risk-controlled approach to investments in distressed debt, corporate debt (including high yield debt and senior loans), control investing, convertible securities, real estate and listed equities. Headquartered in Los Angeles, the firm has over 900 employees and offices in 17 cities worldwide. For additional information, please visit Oaktree's website at www.oaktreecapital.com About VZB: The "Versorgungswerk der Zahnaerztekammer Berlin kdoeR (VZB)" is the pension fund of the Berlin dentist, located in Berlin, Germany. The VZB manages EUR1.4 billion for the 8,000 members. For additional information, please visit VZB's Website www.VZBerlin.org Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/29/11G085116/Images/Xebec_Fruitland_Project-a9d31d6f46f5b6dcbad60a3ecb4221cb.jpg MEDIA CONTACT: Christopher M. Rodriguez Xebec (562) 546-0258 ChrisR@XebecRealty.com Autolist, Inc., a San Francisco, CA-based automotive sales search engine, received a $2m credit facility from Square 1 Bank, a division of Pacific Western Bank. The company intends to use the funds to continue to grow operations. It is hiring. Founded in 2011 and led by Corey Lydstone, president and chief executive officer, Autolist allows users to access used car listingsposted by all major used car apps and dealer websitesall in one search. In addition to search, the mobile application provides used car buyers with decision-making information tools to analyze car prices, research used car values, read reviews, review pricing history. FinSMEs 29/02/2016 Borrowell, a Toronto, Canada-based tech marketplace lender, will receive $6.4m operating and loan capital. Backers included Equitable Bank, along with Hedgewood, Power Financial Corporation, Oakwest Corporation, Adam Felesky, and Freycinet Investments. The company, wich has raised $11.8m in total funds, will accelerate operations. Launched in March 2015 by Andrew Graham, CEO, Borrowell is a digital lender that offers fixed-interest personal loans via a wholly online application process that instantly provides personalized options to people with good credit who want alternatives to credit card debt. To date, it has processed over $500m in loan applications from thousands of Canadians. FinSMEs 29/02/2016 Is the government finally saying sorry to farmers and rural India? Yes, if you go by the slew of Budget announcements for the benefit of both. For nearly two years, both were a marginal presence in the government's grand plan for the country's economic revival. While all its talk revolved around headline-grabbing big ticket investments, multi-billion dollar projects and making India an attractive destination for global money, the farmers suffered in silence. The government was throwing platitudes but hardly looked serious about them. Goaded by economists who firmly believed that the concern for both was a frivolous obsession of an intellectually bankrupt political class and that industry-driven high growth was the only solution to the country's economic woes, it shifted to an alien trajectory. It even called the rural safety net programme MGNREGA the living example of the failure of six decades of Congress rule. In the initial days, it was aggressive on revising the Land Act of the UPA to make it more industry-friendly. India was finding it difficult to be comfortable with the drift. The approach invited ridicule from the government's political opponents. Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi invented the derisive expression 'suit-boot ka sarkar' to describe the government. "Why is Prime Minister Narendra Modi seen with industrialists and the well-heeled all the time? He has no time for the poor and the country's farmers," he would say. There was a political price to pay too. In Delhi and Bihar assembly elections, the BJP lost miserably. Obviously, a good chunk of the voters were from rural areas. It seems the government is now convinced that its politics and agenda for the economy won't be viable with a disenchanted and demoralised rural populace. It desperately needed a course correction and needs to break free from the image of being anti-farmer which the opposition had managed to create through a sustained campaign. The immediate concern could be the upcoming assembly elections in some important states. With a severe drubbing in two elections and an indifferent showing in several isolated elections across the country, it cannot afford political losses anymore. In less than two years in power it has ceded a lot of space to political rivals through a rather rigid pro-industry stand. Now, it wants to wrest it back. Prime Minister Modi has been more vocal about farmers over the last few months. The Budget of his Finance minister is another big effort in wooing back rural India. Consider these: -Rs 35, 984 crore for welfare of farmers -Rs 20,000 crore for irrigation -Rs 5,500 crore for prime minister's Fasal Bima Yojana -Allocation for Krishi Sinchai Yojana -Soil health cards for 14,000 farms this year These are a few of the measures announced by the finance minister for farmers, which could have an effect on a massive part of the rural community. While we don't know how on-ground execution plays out, the course-correction is significant considering the rural economy is in distress and the lot of the farming community is worrisome. Suicides by farmers have shown no sign of abating and migration of impoverished farmers to urban areas continues. The causes of rural distress - scanty rainfall, inadequate or absent irrigation facility, low productivity and indebtedness etc - remain unchanged despite lofty promises by governments. In combination with MNREGA, the government's initiatives could change all that. That, however, is expecting too much too early. The big takeaway from the budget is the apparent shift in the government's attitude. Perhaps it has learnt its lesson. It realises that it cannot be arrogant and dismissive of rural India and, at a more general level, cannot have a economic worldview that is perceived to be anti-people. By Suprateek Chatterjee A great film is often remembered by its final shot, as every great filmmaker from Orson Welles to Christopher Nolan has known and demonstrated only too well. Fandry, Nagraj Manjules charming debut feature, follows the same recipe, certifying the National-Award-winning Marathi short filmmaker and poet as an auteur to watch out for. A charming love story set against the backdrop of a poor village in arid Maharashtra, this is a film that builds up to its final shot destined to be iconic with little manipulation or foreboding. What makes Fandry a remarkable achievement is that it is an underdog film about an underdog. After all, it arrived at the 15th Mumbai Film Festival with positive-yet-restrained buzz (read: you could get into a screening without having made a reservation) and emerged triumphant, by coming second in the international competition. Set in Akolner, a tiny village near Ahmednagar, Fandry portrays the dichotomous rural India of today, where a public toilet is a luxury but a touch-screen Android phone is almost ubiquitous. Jabya (Somnath Avghade), the films dark-skinned protagonist, is an awkward yet winsome teenager from a Dalit family who lives in a shack at the fringes of the village. He has a crush on Shalu, a classmate, who hails from an upper caste and therefore more well-to-do family. She is, of course, fair-skinned. The differences in their background and colour of skin are all-important, as they are anywhere in India even today. Jabya is besotted by Shalu. He follows her around. He dreams of buying fancy clothes that are garish by more urbane standards, but aesthetically pleasing in a village where everything from clothes to surroundings are drab. He writes letters to her confessing his love for her. However, the barriers both social and sexual in his village are so strong that he probably wouldnt be able to approach her even if he werent shy. When Jabya isnt daydreaming about her or at school, hes out with his best friend trying to capture an elusive long-tailed sparrow with a slingshot. The film also tells us about his family, who eke out a living through basket-weaving and the unpleasant business of cleaning, rescuing and chasing away the many wild pigs living in the village. (Incidentally, 'fandry' means pig.) Unlike Jabya, his father Kachrya (Kishore Kadam, the only recognisable actor in the film) is worried about things that are far less trivial, such as dowry and wedding expenses for his youngest daughter. This is as much a film about coming to terms with ones identity as it is about young love. Jabya is uncomfortable with the social status he has inherited and is always close to some sort of breaking point, knowing that the odds aren't in his favour. When his cycle gets crushed by a callous truck driver, during an excursion selling ice-lollies in order to earn some cash, he wails as though hes lost a limb. When his father orders him to stop dancing at the village fair (his attempt at impressing Shalu), he stands in the midst of a group of dancers, tears streaming down his cheek. The long-tailed sparrow he chases is a symbol of his desire to rise above his circumstances, not least because some amount of witchcraft with it will get him closer to Shalu, according to the local cycle-shop owner/drunk (played by Manjule himself). What elevates Fandry over many well-meaning but bland issue-based films is the superlative acting. Each and every actor in this film most of them non-actors is fabulous and perfectly cast. Avghade is an irresistibly likable mixture of fiery and vulnerable; his raspy voice is indicative of his adolescence, while his occasional toothy grin is a reminder of how innocent he still is. The film also benefits from technical polish the cinematography, background score and editing are all top-notch. The film also stands out because of its final 15 minutes the lone set-piece that utilises great hand-held camerawork and effective VFX, which becomes this villages version of an IPL match. In hindsight, one realises that the story was probably written after this sequence. However, Manjules writing is so watertight that every occurrence in the screenplay feels natural. Ultimately,Fandrys greatest victory is that it flows with the same languid pace one would expect of village life, despite its hardships, and, by putting the viewer in Jabyas shoes, Manjule let you live in his world for a while. (Suprateek Chatterjee is editor of Visual Disobedience, a community for emerging indie artists, and a freelance writer. In his spare time, he likes to compose music with his electro-rock band Vega Massive and his Twitter handle is @SupraMario.) Auto refresh feeds Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu wins the Oscar for 'Best Directing' for The Revenant Leonardo DiCaprio wins the Oscar for 'Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role' for The Revenant Spotlight (Michael Sugar, Steve Golin, Nicole Rocklin, Blye Pagon Faust) wins the Oscar for 'Best Motion Picture of the Year' Lady Gaga gets an standing ovation for her performance of 'Till It Happens to You' on the issue of sexual abuse Ennio Morricone wins the best Oscar for 'Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Score' for The Hateful Eight Proud to stand by my friend @LadyGaga tonight. Pure courage that inspires, challenges us all. #ItsOnUs . All of us. pic.twitter.com/1eee3v0Xd2 The Hunting Ground "Til It Happens to You" Diane Warren, Lady Gaga Sam Smith and James Napier win the Oscar for 'Best Achievement in Music Written for Motion Pictures, Original Song' for Spectre's "Writing's On The Wall" Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu wins the Oscar for 'Best Directing' for The Revenant thank u @ladygaga and VP @JoeBiden for bringing attention to sexual assault at the oscars. it hit very close to my heart for obvious reasons Kesha embroiled in a sexual assault case with Dr Luke, thanks Lady Gaga and Joe Biden for their support Brie Larson wins the Oscar for 'Best Performance by an Actress in a Leading Role' for Room Leonardo DiCaprio wins the Oscar for 'Best Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role' for The Revenant The #Oscar for Actor in a Leading Role goes to pic.twitter.com/qbLkhHmW8R "I do not take night for granted, do not take this planet for granted," DiCaprio after winning his first Oscar. Spotlight (Michael Sugar, Steve Golin, Nicole Rocklin, Blye Pagon Faust) wins the Oscar for 'Best Motion Picture of the Year' Hollywood: Hollywood hits the Oscars red carpet Monday for its annual show of glitz and pageantry honoring cinema's finest 0151 with a broiling row over diversity an awkward guest at the party. Tinseltown's elite are looking forward to the usual sparkling night of celebration, with survival epic The Revenant leading the charge for golden statuettes and a panoply of rivals snapping at its heels. But controversy over the "whitewashing" of nominations there are no ethnic minority nominees in the acting categories for the second year running threatens to steal the limelight. An audience expected to number several hundred million around the world will be hanging on every word uttered by black comedian and actor Chris Rock, who is hosting despite calls for him to join a boycott. Insiders say the 51-year-old has completely rewritten his opening monologue in the wake of the scandal, which could prove embarrassing for the Academy's 6,000-plus voting members, overwhelmingly white men. The funnyman appeared in relaxed mood hours before the ceremony, posting a picture of Oscars note paper bearing the phrase "Get ready" and, soon after, a video of him ordering breakfast at a McDonald's drive-thru. Hopes for a safe, predictable start looked promising, with the rain clouds that have marred previous red carpet arrivals nowhere in sight for the 88th Oscars ceremony, which begins at 5.30 am on Monday at Hollywood's Dolby Theatre. Old Hollywood hands If the weather can never be entirely reliable, analysts have predicted with an unusual degree of certainty that Monday will be a night of long overdue glory for old Hollywood hands who have previously missed out. Jaws will drop if best actor doesn't go to Leonardo DiCaprio for The Revenant, 22 years after his first of five acting nominations. "Good luck Leo! Everyone loves you because you're the best," pop superstar Adele tweeted. A widely-anticipated best supporting actor Oscar for Sylvester Stallone, who reprises his turn as underdog boxer Rocky Balboa in Creed, would be one of the stories of the night, almost four decades after his only other nominations for best actor and screenplay for the franchise's original outing, Rocky. The 69-year-old shared a picture on Instagram of him dressed in a dark blue dinner jacket with black and blue lapels and a black shirt and bowtie, captioned: "On my way to the Oscars... It's been a memorable year." First-time nominee Brie Larson looks to be a lock for best actress, having dominated the awards season with her performance as a kidnapped mother in Room. Best supporting actress favorite Alicia Vikander (The Danish Girl) faces tough competition from Carol star Rooney Mara, on her second nomination, and previous best actress winner Kate Winslet, acclaimed for her work in Steve Jobs. Spotlight, about child abuse in the Catholic Church, and Wall Street satire The Big Short look like safe bets for the original and adapted screenplay honors after being recognized by the Writers Guild. Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's The Revenant is the overall frontrunner, with 12 nominations, followed by George Miller's stark action epic Mad Max: Fury Road with 10 and Ridley Scott's space adventure The Martian, with seven. 'Surprises will happen' The Gold Derby website, which aggregates experts' predictions, has The Revenant in the lead for best film, but analysts are split on whether Inarritu will also pick up best director for the second year running following his win for Birdman. "I think 'The Revenant' will win best picture and the director will go to Miller," said Hollywood analyst Anne Thompson. "It would be unlikely that the Academy would reward a genre sequel like 'Fury Road' with best picture, but they have gone with directors like Ang Lee and Alfonso Cuaron for well-mounted spectacles like 'Life of Pi' and 'Gravity.'" "As many people are saying, this is an unusual year when surprises will happen," she added. The night will also feature some social activism: several stars including Oscar winner Patricia Arquette and past nominee Steve Carell will wear bracelets to promote a campaign against gun violence. And Vice President Joe Biden will introduce a song by Oscar nominee Lady Gaga to push an initiative tackling sexual assault on US university campuses. Gaga sang a duet with Elton John on Saturday at his pre-Oscars pop-up concert in West Hollywood, which drew thousands of fans to the Sunset Strip. John organized the free event to thank the city for hosting his annual Academy Awards viewing party to raise funds for his AIDS foundation. AFP Sweden's Alicia Vikander, who on Sunday won an Oscar as best supporting actress in The Danish Girl, burst onto the Hollywood scene last year as an edgy performer not shy of complex roles. Just three years ago, few had heard of the 27-year-old doe-eyed brunette, but last year she appeared in at least four major movies, including the British sci-fi psychological thriller Ex Machina, where she starred as the humanoid robot Ava and for which she was nominated for a Golden Globe. "It's been suddenly wonderful to be introduced in rooms to meet actors and filmmakers and people behind the cameras that I've looked up to my entire life," said Vikander. But it was for her role in the British biographical drama The Danish Girl that Vikander was honoured with an Academy Award, playing Danish artist Gerda Wegener in a love story about how she and her fellow artist husband Einar Elbe, played by Eddie Redmayne, navigate his journey as a transgender pioneer. "Eddie, there you are. Thank you for being the best acting partner. I could have never done it without you. You raised my game," Vikander said on Sunday in her Oscar acceptance speech. "I want to thank my friends and my mom and dad thank you for giving me the belief that anything can happen, even though I would have never believed this," she said. She bested fellow nominees Jennifer Jason Leigh (The Hateful Eight), Rooney Mara (Carol), Rachel McAdams (Spotlight) and Kate Winslet (Steve Jobs). Vikander said she found parallels in her roles in Ex Machina and The Danish Girl, with both the android Ava and Gerda pondering what it means to be a woman. At a White House event for The Danish Girl celebrating lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) people in the media, several transgender attendees said they were moved by her portrayal of Ava. "Three trans women came up to me separately to tell me they had felt such a connection with Ava in 'Ex Machina', and her dream of finally coming to full female fruition," Vikander recently told a British newspaper. Ballerina dreams Born in Sweden's second city of Gothenburg in 1988, Vikander initially dreamed of becoming a ballerina, studying at the Royal Swedish Ballet School in Stockholm before injuries cut her dance career short in her teens. Her focus then turned to acting, and her on-screen career gained traction after appearances in Swedish short films and the popular television drama series Andra Avenyn from 2008 until 2010. Soon after, she began looking for work in American and British films, sending audition tapes to casting directors. But neither Vikander nor her agent received a single response. "I never even heard 'No, thank you,' so I decided I had to get myself to London," she told a magazine. Her international breakthrough came in 2012, when she co-starred in the British adaptation of historical epic Anna Karenina, and in the Danish costume drama A Royal Affair, nominated for a best foreign language film Oscar. In 2015, Vikander also narrated the Swedish documentary Ingrid Bergman: In Her Own Words, and was named the face of French luxury fashion label Louis Vuitton. Vikander is currently dating German-Irish actor Michael Fassbender, himself an Oscar nominee this year for his work in Steve Jobs as the late Apple co-founder. She has scored a role in the upcoming Jason Bourne, which will see Matt Damon return to the big screen as the amnesiac super-spy. AFP New Delhi: Government on Monday announced creation of a Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) with an initial capital base of Rs 1,000 crore which will leverage funds from the market and work to create infrastructure in India's top institutions like the IITs. In his budget speech, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley also spoke about creating a regulatory architecture for ten public and ten private institutions to emerge as world-class teaching and research institutions. The finance minister also announced the establishment of a Digital Depository for academic certificates and also opening of 62 Navodaya Vidyalayas. Jaitley said that after the universalisation of primary education throughout the country, the government wants to take the next big step forward by focusing on the quality of education. "An increasing share of allocation under Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan will be allocated for this", he said. He emphasized on government's commitment to empower higher educational institutions to help them become world class teaching and research institutions. "An enabling regulatory architecture will be provided to 10 public and 10 private institutions to emerge as world-class Teaching and Research Institutions. This will enhance affordable access to high quality education for ordinary Indians. A detailed scheme will be formulated," he said. Jaitley also announced the decision to set up a Higher Education Financing Agency (HEFA) with an initial capital base of Rs 1,000 crores. "The HEFA will be a not-for-profit organisation that will leverage funds from the market and supplement them with donations and CSR funds. These funds will be used to finance improvement in infrastructure in our top institutions and will be serviced through internal accruals," he said. He also announced a proposal to establish a Digital Depository for School Leaving Certificates, College Degrees, Academic Awards and Mark sheets, on the pattern of a Securities Depository. "This will help validate their authenticity, safe storage and easy retrieval," Jaitley said. He also declared that 62 new Navodaya Vidyalayas will be opened in the remaining uncovered districts over the next two years. PTI New Delhi: In order to soothe nerves of foreign investors, the government on Monday offered one-time settlement of cases emanating from retrospective amendment of tax laws, by asking companies to pay the basic tax demand and get waiver for interest and penalty. To provide a stable and predictable taxation regime, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Budget 2016-17 came out with a 'Direct Tax Dispute Resolution Scheme' to resolve cases pending in any Court, Tribunal, Arbitration or mediation under the Bilateral Investment Protection Agreement (BIPA). Experts said this is a big step towards tax reform and will act as a breather for companies like Vodafone and Cairn, which have been facing multi-billion dollar tax liability following retrospective tax amendments made in 2012. "In order to give an opportunity to the past cases, which are ongoing under the retrospective amendment, I propose 'One Time' scheme of dispute resolution for them in which subject to their agreeing to withdraw any pending case lying in any Court or tribunal or any proceeding for arbitration, mediation, etc under BIPA, they can settle the case by paying only the tax arrears in which case liability of the interest and penalty shall be waived," Jaitley said in his Budget speech. He today also reiterated that the government will "provide a stable and predictable taxation regime. We will not resort to such (retrospective) amendments in future". "I had also hoped then that the cases pending in various courts and other legal fora relating to certain retrospective amendments undertaken to the Income Tax Act, 1961, through the Finance Act 2012, will soon reach their logical conclusion. I would like to reiterate that we are committed to provide a stable and predictable taxation regime," he said. The government had in 2014 Budget announced constitution of a high-level committee, which would oversee any fresh case where the Assessing Officer proposes to assess or reassess the income in respect of indirect transfers by applying the retrospective amendment. "In order to allay any fears of tax adventurism, this committee will now be chaired by the Revenue secretary and consist of Chairman CBDT and an expert from outside. This committee will effectively oversee the implementation of the assurances," Jaitley added. Jaitley said the tax department is moving towards a lower tax regime with non-litigious approach. Thus, while compliant taxpayers can expect a supportive interface with the department, tax evasion will be countered strongly. He said there are about 3 lakh tax cases pending with the first Appellate Authority with disputed amount being Rs 5.5 lakh crore. "Litigation is a scourge for a tax friendly regime and creates an environment of distrust in addition to increasing the compliance cost of the tax payers and administrative cost for the government," Jaitley said. A taxpayer who has an appeal pending as of today before the Commissioner (Appeals) can settle his case by paying the disputed tax and interest up to the date of assessment. "No penalty in respect of I-T cases with disputed tax up to Rs 10 lakh will be levied. Cases with disputed tax exceeding Rs 10 lakh will be subjected to only 25 per cent of the minimum of the imposable penalty for both direct and indirect taxes," he said. Jaitley said any pending appeal against a penalty order can also be settled by paying 25 per cent of the minimum of the imposable penalty. However, persons charged with criminal offences under specific Acts are barred from availing this scheme. The new Dispute Resolution Scheme (DRS) is intended towards solving the long pending tax disputes with MNCs and create favourable investment climate, experts said. "Retrospective amendments not to be made going forward and special regime to settle past disputes on indirect transfer tax, showcases Government's commitment towards creating a stable and predictable tax regime in India," said Naveen Aggarwal, Partner (Tax) KPMG in India. Earlier this month, the tax department took the unusual step of sending a reminder notice to Vodafone for payment of Rs 14,200 crore of taxes on an issue that is under arbitration. Even after two years, the arbitration in the Vodafone case has not yet started in absence of appointment of a presiding judge on a three member arbitration panel. The Rs 10,247-crore tax issue of Cairn Energy Plc, UK could manage to get a full panel constituted, even though the process started much later than Vodafone, only after the issue was brought to the notice of Prime Minister's Office. PTI New Delhi: Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday announced setting up of new ports at eastern and western coasts and said the thrust of the shipping sector would also be on waterways as well as port-led economic development through project Sagarmala. "We are planning to develop new greenfield ports both in the eastern and western coasts of the country. The work on the National Waterways is also being expedited. Rs 800 crore has been provided for these initiatives," Jaitley said while tabling the Budget in Parliament on Monday. The Sagarmala project has already been rolled out, he said, adding that government has initiated a series of steps to modernise and expand the capacity of its 12 major ports. Under its ambitious Sagarmala project, the government is looking to mobilise at least Rs 10 lakh crore investment, including Rs 4 lakh crore in the infrastructure sector alone. The Finance Minister also announced that the Customs Act is being amended to provide for deferred payment of customs duties for certain class of importers and exporters and "in consultations with Ministry of Shipping, the facility of direct port delivery is being extended to more importers." Jaitley further said, "In 2014-15 Budget, I had announced the intent to implement Indian Customs Single Window Project. We have made significant progress in this and it would be implemented at major ports and airports starting from beginning of next financial year." In 2015, India's major ports have handled the highest ever quality of cargo. "We have also added the highest ever capacity in major ports. We have started a series of measures for modernising the ports and increasing their efficiency," Jaitley said. Shipping Minister Nitin Gadkari termed the Budget as a landmark Budget and said it will pave the way for unprecedented growth in the sector. "We will set up three new major ports - at Colachel in Tamil Nadu, Sagar in West Bengal and Dahanur in Maharashtra," Gadkari said. He said the bill to convert 111 rivers into national waterways was likely to get Parliament nod this week. Gadkari said while Rs 800 crore provision has been made towards waterways sector, another Rs 800 crore can be raised through issuance of tax-free bonds. "Provisions of Rs 1,600 crore for shipping and waterways will give a tremendous boost to the sector," he added. To encourage movement for goods and passengers via waterways, the Cabinet last year had approved the plans for enactment of a legislation for converting 111 river stretches across the country into national waterways. Only five of the river-stretches have been declared as 'national waterways' so far. India has 12 major ports -- Kandla, Mumbai, JNPT, Marmugao, New Mangalore, Cochin, Chennai, Ennore, V O Chidambarnar, Visakhapatnam, Paradip and Kolkata (including Haldia) which handle approximately 61 per cent of the country's total cargo traffic. PTI New Delhi: Laying out the objective of skilling one crore youth over the next three years, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday announced a raft of measures including setting up 1,500 multi-skill training institutes and National Board for Skill Development Certification in Budget. Unveiling the Budget proposals for 2016-17 in Parliament, Jaitley described "education, skills and job creation" to make India a knowledge-based and productive society as one of the 'nine pillars' that will transform the country. Jaitley earmarked a sum of Rs 1,700 crore for setting up 1,500 multi-skill training institutes in the country and scaling up Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojna. "We have decided to set up National Board for Skill Development Certification in partnership with the industry and academia. We propose to further scale up Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojna to skill one crore youth over the next three years," Jaitley said. He further proposed to exempt service tax on services provided under Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushalya Yojana and services provided by Assessing Bodies empanelled by Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. Besides, the weighted deduction for expenditure on skill development projects under section 35CCD of the Income-tax Act will continue up to April 1, 2020. "It is proposed to amend section 35CCD of the Income-tax Act so as to provide that the weighted deduction of 150 per cent shall be available up to financial year 2019-20 (assessment year 2020-21). "However, the deduction under the said section shall be restricted to 100 per cent from financial year 2020-21 (Assessment Year 2021-22)," Jaitley said. The minister said entrepreneurship education and training will be provided in 2,200 colleges, 300 schools, 500 government ITIs and 50 vocational training centres through massive open online courses. Terming the Budget for skill development as "highly encouraging", Union Skills Development and Entrepreneurship Minister Rajiv Pratap Rudy said the 1,500 multi skill raining institutes will basically be the new generation ITIs set up in public-private-partnership (PPP) mode. "So far we have just had standalone government or private ITIs. These will be set up in those blocks and districts of the country which are yet to focus on skill development. "We are also certain and committed to achieve our target of skilling one crore youth over the next three years under the Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)," Rudy said. PTI Auto refresh feeds Firstpost senior editor Akshaya Mishra says: The BJP is shedding its urban bias. Its economic policy, as reflected in Jaitley's announcements so far, would disappoint many economists looking for drastic reforms. Right now it's an UPA budget, minus the in your face populist spending. It could be the pressure of politics. But there's nothing to complain about. Firstpost senior editor Akshaya Mishra says: The BJP is shedding its urban bias. Its economic policy, as reflected in Jaitley's announcements so far, would disappoint many economists looking for drastic reforms. Right now it's an UPA budget, minus the in your face populist spending. It could be the pressure of politics. But there's nothing to complain about. Barely two hundred kilomteres away from Delhi, there have been reports of famine deaths in Bundlekhand on account of successive failure of crops. The entire region has been reeling under severe economic distress which is unprecedented. The similar situation persists in West UP and Eastern parts of the state. Jaitleys emphasis on rural sector seems to be an attempt to win over a large section of the rural populace which seems to have alienated from the Centre and the state government in equal measures. There were unmistakable signs that in the budget-making of this year, the lurking shadow of the UP election to be held next year guided the economic policies. Having lost Bihar elections, Jaitley was not oblivious to the fact that in the rural dominated Uttar Pradesh, the partys support base of 2014 has been gradually slipping away. Firstpost executive editor Ajay Singh says: Just as union finance minister Arun Jaitley began painting an optimistic picture of the India economy against odds of downturn of the global economy, he has cautiously avoided the mentioning of the rural distress in Delhi backyard-Uttar Pradesh. Firstpost executive editor Ajay Singh says: Arun Jaitleys insistence to maintain flexibility in the FRBM would come as a surprise for those who thought that the minister would adhere to targeted figure of fiscal deficit. His decision to review the functioning of the FRBM appears to be an outcome of the governments view to divert more funds for social expenditure. This is an important decision as the government would have additional fund to play with on its social commitments. Budget scores politically, but numbers bear scrutiny @TheJaggi says: On balance, the budget presented by Arun Jaitley is probably his best so far. Politically, it is the right direction, and economically it is difficult to fault spending on infrastructure and rural areas. The middle taxpaying class should not be unhappy even without a raise in the tax-exempt limit in general, but lowest bracket gets a small Rs 3,000 relief. If the tax amnesty schemes generate large resources, the numbers will add up, but not if they fail. If the incentives to the organised sector enable more companies to expand employee base, it will benefit the neo middle classes the most - jobs at the bottom end of the strucuture, that pay under Rs 25,000 per month. The fiscal devil in the fine print will, however, need closer scrutiny. Broadly, this budget sends a political message from Narendra Modi that the NDA is about the poor and not the rich. This is the first shot in his 2019 election campaign. Ashok Wadhwa, CEO, Ambit Holdings: He has announced an amnesty scheme. Historically amnesy scheme can collect 0.2 and 0.8 percent. On the personal side, thankfully not brought the long-term capital gains tax. 10 pecent more tax for those who earn 10 lakhs. Overall, a decently balanced budget from tax perspective Ramesh Damani, market expert: We live in a world that hates uncertainty. India adheres to the path of fiscal prudence and sticks to the path that is good for India. Borrowing figure is lower than last year will be taken postively by bond markets. The opposition isn't happy with the Budget. Of course, that is almost ritual by now. What comes through in Jaitley's Budget is the good intent. But good intent needs to translate into good implementation on ground. But the basic question remains: will the government be able to achieve what it has promised without overstepping the fiscal red line it has drawn for itself by a big margin? It seems to be a tough ask. Firstpost senior editor Akshaya Mishra says: It's heartening that the government is giving attention to social security or the safety net. It's not spoken of as much in India as in western countries but it's critical to any economy preparing for structural changes - from farming to manufacturing to services - and the consequent financial and social disruption caused by them. We are still a long way to go. But the thinking is in the right direction. So what's the final word on the Budget 2016-17? It's too early for that. But it can be said that it's more of a political budget, careful not to ruffle feathers. It plays safe by trying to please all sections. The super-rich would be a bit unhappy, but it won't bother the government much. Jaitley's Budget eschews adventurism and is populist without being overtly so. Finally, everything comes down to to implementation. One would have preferred to hear the FM addressing the topic of farmers with more emphasis though. The Union Budget 2016 is a tightrope walk for Arun Jaitley, the lawyer-turned-politician in Prime Minister Narendra Modi's cabinet. On the one side is the need to increase public spending to support a still-struggling economy and the other side is the need to stick to the fiscal consolidation path. Above all is Jaitley's own personal need to prove his skills in handling the finance ministry and the broader economy. The fact is in the last two years at the North Block, Jaitley has been able to attract a significant amount of criticism for mishandling of key issues, including bank recapitalisation. What is making his task particularly difficult is the fact the Narendra Modi government is going through a rough patch due to the heightening criticism over the rising intolerance. The JNU imbroglio and the Rohith Vemula suicide only aggravated the problem. Above all this is the two consecutive years of monsoon deficiency, which has pushed the rural economy into a crisis. There is wide expectation that the government will increase the expenditure for various social sector schemes to support the farming community. This is likely to put a drag on the government's ability to spend for projects. The there is the high expectations from the difficult-to-please salaried class on tax front. Here are a few figures to watch out for: Fiscal deficit: It is the shortfall in the government's revenues to meet its expenditure. The budget gives out the revised estimate of the deficit for the previous financial year and also the estimate for the next. The number is expressed both in absolute terms and as a percent of GDP. As per the fiscal consolidation roadmap, for the current financial year the deficit has been pegged at 3.9 percent, 2016-17 at 3.5 percent and 2017-18 at 3 percent. Will Jaitley stick to this? Market borrowing: The government bridges the fiscal gap through market borrowing by issuing borrowing. Gross market borrowing for the current financial year was Rs 6 lakh crore. The higher the deficit the higher the borrowing and the government's interest expenses. Plan and non-plan expenditure: Plan expenditure pertains to public spending that comes as part of the current five-year plan. As opposed to this, the non-plan expenditure deals with interest payments, subsidies, defence spending, salaries to government staff, grants to state governments and Union Territories, loans etc. Jaitley had cut the plan expenditure for the current financial year by more than Rs 8,000 crore from the previous year. While cutting non-plan expenditure at a time of rural distress may be politically bad, will he cut the plan expenditure again? That will have direct correlation to the public spending, which is key to industrial recovery. The non-plan expenditure for the current financial year stands at Rs 13.12 lakh crore and plan expenditure at Rs 4.65 lakh crore. NEW DELHI India on Monday proposed to give income tax exemption to foreign companies for storing and selling oil to local refiners, a move that could spur interest from global oil producers in leasing the country's strategic petroleum reserve (SPR) facilities. India, the world's third-biggest oil importer and one of the few major economies still seeing strong demand growth, is building up SPR facilities in southern India to hold 36.87 million barrels of oil. The tax exemption will be applicable from the financial year beginning April 1, provided the foreign company enters into an agreement with the federal government or the arrangement is approved by the government, the government proposed in its annual budget. Oil Minister Dharmendra Pradhan recently said the United Arab Emirates is keen to use half of the 1.5 million tonnes, or about 11 million barrels, facility at Mangalore. Previously global oil major Royal Dutch Shell and national oil companies of Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Iran had also showed interest in leasing the facilities, but shied away from signing any deal due to income tax and state levies such as sales tax. It was not immediately clear if the state levies will also be abolished to bring local sales on a par with transactions taking place outside India, where the seller has no Indian tax liability. The 9.75 million barrels Vizag facility in Andhra Pradesh has already been filled with Iraq's Basra oil, while two facilities at Mangalore and Padur in Karnataka are expected to be completed by March and May. (Reporting by Nidhi Verma; Editing by David Holmes) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. KALABAT, Pakistan A senior U.N. official has urged Pakistan to resolve the status of more than 2.5 million Afghan refugees living in Pakistan whose registration cards have expired or who remain unregistered. While Europe has grappled with the exodus of people from Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, Pakistan hosts the world's largest long-term refugee population, according to the United Nations refugee agency (UNHCR), most of whom are Afghans who have fled more than three decades of war. In December, registration cards providing temporary legal stay to more than 1.5 million Afghan refugees expired, and were granted a six-month extension by the government. But Afghans say they are hassled by police for carrying the expired cards, and members of the estimated one million Afghans who are still unregistered also face difficulties with the authorities, aid workers say. The issue is now before Pakistan's cabinet. UNHCR Assistant High Commissioner George Okoth-Obbo said his agency was engaged in "continuing discussions" with the Pakistani government to resolve the population's uncertain situation. "We await with a lot of interest the decision of the government on those questions," Okoth-Obbo told Reuters during a Friday visit to Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province, home to a large Afghan population. Many Afghans living in Pakistan have been living in the country for decades and contribute significantly to the country's labour force. "HOST FATIGUE" Since 2009, international donors have poured more than $30 million into improving basic services in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa communities that have hosted the their neighbours for decades. "People have hosted (the Afghan refugees) for over 35 years," Imran Zeb, Pakistan's chief commissioner for Afghan refugees, told Reuters after a ceremony inaugurating one of three schools in the area to have been refurbished with aid money. Pakistan is committed to helping refugees voluntarily get back to Afghanistan, Zeb said, but: "There is definitely some host fatigue." The government is trying to improve education and opportunities for the 70 percent of the refugees who are under 25 so they "can do something positive" and not fall into crime or recruitment by "elements that are not desirable," he said. With security in Afghanistan deteriorating over the past year, many of the Afghans living in the Kalabat area have no interest in going home anytime soon. "We have no option... We don't have land. Where should we go?" asked Jawlai, a mother of five children who fled to Pakistan in the 1980s and, like many Afghans, uses only one name. "When the war is finished, then we'll go," she said. (Reporting by Krista Mahr; Editing by Raissa Kasolowsky) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. WHY DONT YOU READ THESE? By Shishir Tripathi Following the Punjab and Haryana High Court directive to file detailed reports on alleged cases of rape during the Jat agitation and total loss of public and private property, the Haryana government on Monday filed its response. According to the reply filed by the state total 1, 117 cases have been registered in Haryana and 147 arrests has been made so far. In the interim report regarding the alleged rape and molestation during Jat agitation, the Haryana government has said that no rape or molestation incident has been reported by anyone except a Delhi resident in which the FIR has been registered. The bench headed by Justices SK Mittal and HS Sidhu had directed the Haryana government on 25 February to file a detailed report regarding the property damaged during the rioting that took place during the quota agitation. Senior advocate of the Punjab and Haryana High Court Anupam Gupta has been appointed amicus curiae in the case. The court has instructed the Haryana government to file a detail report till March 14 on the amount of public and private property during the rioting. The Jat quota stir which started in the second week of February turned extremely violent on 19 February, after those agitating torched the house of Haryana finance minister Captain Abhimanyu. There was massive destruction of private and public properties worth thousands of crores. Members of the Jat community who were protesting for reservation under the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category resorted to large-scale rioting. Reports of rapes and molestation during the agitation near Murthal also started coming in last week. Taking suo motu notice of a news report of "women commuters being violated by highway goons", the Punjab and Haryana High Court had asked for the incident to be probe by the premier investigating agency. The Haryana government had constituted a three-member team to gather information on the alleged sexual assault. The investigating team is being headed by Deputy Inspector-General of Police Rajshree Singh with DSPs Bharti Dabas and Surinder Kaur as members. On 25 February, providing relief to victims of the agitation, the Punjab and Haryana High Court ordered that those who suffered sexual harassment, loss of property or failed in getting insurance compensation can approach the Chief Judicial Magistrates their districts for help . The court also ordered setting up of a help desk in every District Legal Services Authority (DLSA) The division bench of Justices SK Mittal and HS Sidhu had observed that the court had considered the news reports with regard to sexual assault alleged to have been made by the arsonists/protesters during the recent agitation in the state of Haryana. It has been reported that their complaints have also not been taken care of by the police authorities. New Delhi: The Haryana government, represented by two of its top officials, is likely to present two affidavits, along with a detailed police report in the Punjab and Haryana High Court on Monday. The first affidavit, which will be submitted by DS Dhesi, chief secretary, Haryana pertains to the estimation of total damage to public and private property and the compensation arithmetic and dispensation mechanism that has been finalised. PK Das, home secretary, Haryana, will submit an affidavit on the alleged Murthal gangrapes which will include the detailed report of the SP, DC and IG, Police. However, despite detailed investigations over eight days, there is still no evidence at hand to establish that any such incident took place. This is because not a single rape victim or family member of a rape victim has come forward to file a complaint, either with the police, the police helplines set up especially for the victims, the district magistrates appointed by the Court or the National Commission for Women (NCW) team, which also conducted an independent probe. Media mismanagement? Multiple media outfits, attempting independent enquiries at the alleged crime scene, have additionally failed to conjure any victims or witnesses. Rather, there have been accusations by some locals alleging coercion by the media to give statements on camera confirming the rapes. When chief judicial magistrates took statements of witnesses who were appearing on the different news channels, they denied having witnessed any such outrage . Video footage of womens clothes strewn around the fields has been repeatedly shown by TV channels as suggestive of the horror that allegedly took place at Murthal. Earlier, a Firstpost report of 26 February, which undertook a 360 review of the facts on hand, including a police report, had also failed to establish the occurrence of any such heinous mass rape in Murthal. The police report, which was in Hindi, was uploaded along with the article and the English transcript was also made available. The Court had taken suo moto cognisance of the alleged crime after The Tribune report of 24 February which said that at least ten women passengers on the national highway near Murthal, Sonepat, were stopped in the early hours of Monday, 22 February, dragged into the nearby fields and gangraped, while further accusing the police of having advised the rape victims and their families not to register any complaints. The Court had asked the Haryana government to reply, following which a detailed police probe into the incident was ordered. Following The Tribune report, the news spread like wildfire, stoked by the media and RTI and women activists. However, all that could be established through eye witness accounts is incidents of violence, loot and arson but not a single case of sexual assault, far less rape. However, given the seriousness of the allegations and the horror that the news has imprinted in the minds of people, the police are continuing to urge victims to step forward. In the police report of 26 February, all three key sources in The Tribune story, while admitting that some journalists from Delhi had visited them in and around Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba and made enquiries, denied both the occurrence of any such incident, or having confirmed the occurrence of either sexual assault or gangrape to the journalists. Further, CCTV footage obtained from Amrik Sukhdev Dhaba did not show any womens clothes at the time the incident allegedly took place. After drawing a blank, the police then turned to one of the authors of the report, Parveen Arora who additionally denied having spoken to a single victim or victims family, maintaining that his story was based on the statements of the three persons named in the story. Though after all the hype, eventually, a resident of Narela, Delhi, did lodge a complaint with the Haryana police in Sonepat on 27 February alleging gangrape on National Highway-1 near Murthal, she herself claimed the rape was by her brothers-in-law and their five accomplices, not external goons/rioters. Further, the incident does not pertain to the morning of 22 February, but the night of 22-23 February. According to reports, the complainant has filed multiple rape allegations in the past and also has an ongoing property dispute with her in-laws. An FIR has been filed and the matter is being investigated before any arrests are made. Unanswered questions With everyone failing to produce even a single rape victim, after eight days, how did The Tribune report establish that least 10 women were subjected to gangrape by at least 30 goons? What is the source of these figures? If such heinous gangrapes by violent, armed goons did indeed take place, but were covered up as alleged, wouldnt these victims need medical attention? If so, hospitals are legally bound to report any case of suspected criminal injuries to the police. No such report has come in, from Delhi or the NCR. If the incident is indeed fabricated, what could be the motivation in fabricating it? Could it be to deflect attention from the Congress hand in the burning of Haryana as revealed in these three Firstpost exposes of 22, 23 and 24 February? If the story is not fabricated, is it really possible for the Haryana police to (as alleged) suppress the voices of as many as 10 alleged rape victims, who supposedly live in Delhi, as well as the voices of hundreds of villagers and other locals? In summary, though the suspicion of a fabricated report is extremely distressing, the likelihood of even one woman being raped in the course of the relentless 8-day Jat quota stir in Haryana is even more disturbing. One can only hope no such incident took place. Mumbai: The Bombay High Court on Monday dismissed a petition filed by NCP MLA Pankaj Bhujbal, son of former Maharashtra minister Chhagan Bhujbal, challenging an order of the Charity Commissioner summoning him for a trial related to an alleged fraud at the Mumbai Education Trust. Justice M S Sonak held that the Charity Commissioner has the same powers as a civil court and can summon anyone while conducting a hearing. Sunil Karve, a founder trustee of MET and a chartered accountant by profession, has filed a complaint before the Charity Commissioner alleging a fraud of Rs 177 crore at the institution. The Commissioner had recently summoned Pankaj Bhujbal, one of the trustees, to appear last week. Bhujbal challenged the order in the High Court. Karve has accused Chhagan Bhujbal and his family members, who are among the trustees of MET, of misappropriating Rs 177 crore of the trust funds and misusing its office building at the Bandra Reclamation. Karve, who co-founded MET in 1989 with Bhujbal, had earlier filed a complaint with the Economic Offences Wing of Mumbai Police, alleging that Bhujbal family had usurped an entire floor in the MET building, using it as residence and also as the office of their furniture business. Karve also filed an application through his lawyer Sayaji Nangre before the Charity Commissioner to seek dismissal of Bhujbal, his wife Meena, Pankaj and nephew Sameer as trustees. Chhagan Bhujbal had dubbed the complaint as "politically-motivated". PTI By C Raja Mohan As one of the worlds oldest continuing civilisations, India has always been enriched by its interaction with other cultures and civilisations around it. As Indias first prime minister Jawaharlal Nehru told the delegates to the 1947 Asian Relations Conference in Delhi, India is so situated to be the meeting point of western and northern and eastern and southeast Asia. Streams of culture have come to India from the west and the east and been absorbed in India, producing the rich and variegated culture which is India today. At the same time, Nehru added, streams of culture have flowed from India to distant parts of Asia If you would know India you have to go to Afghanistan and Western Asia, to Central Asia, to China and Japan and to the countries of Southeast Asia. There you will find magnificent evidence of the vitality of Indias culture which spread out and influenced vast numbers of people. If the idea of a culturally interconnected Asia animated the Indian national movement, the hopes of constructing an Asian Federation emerged as an aspiration on the international stage. Yet, the fact is that the scale, scope and intensity of its connectivity with Asia varied over the millennia. There have been periods of expansive engagement with its neighbouring regions, interspersed by centuries of isolationism. Nehrus own stewardship of independent India saw Delhi intensely embrace Asia only to turn its back on it soon after. Today, integrating with Asia has once again become a major theme of Indias economic and foreign policies. This essay reviews the changing ideas of Asia, the tension between forces of unity and division within the great continent, and Indias imperatives in connecting Asia and promoting peace and prosperity in the region. United and Divided The idea of Asias unique identity endures and takes many forms. There is the notion of a cultural Asia that has been propounded by the Japanese art historian Okakura Kakuzo way back at the turn of the 20th century, as the region began to discover shared civilisational roots. Asia is one, was the simple but profound first sentence of Kakuzos highly influential work, The ideals of the East, published in 1903. As they gained national consciousness, became more aware of the world around them and intensified the effort to free themselves from colonial yoke, many in the region defined Asia as the spiritual other in the East to the materialistic West. Some in Asia were deeply wary of the idea of an Asia that defines itself in anti-Western terms. Instead, they sought to imagine the Asian identity in more universal terms. Contemporary Asias first great power, Japan, instrumentalised the idea of pan-Asianism to promote its own imperial interests in the first half of the 20th century. As it occupied vast swathes of Asia, Japan talked of an Asia for the Asians and presented its own conquest of the region as a liberation from European colonialism. In contrast to the notions of Asias imperial unity, the anti-colonial struggles generated a very different version of Asian unity. This sense of solidarity expressed itself at Asian Relations Conference in Delhi and the The Afro-Asian Conference at Bandung (1955). It eventually morphed into the Non-Aligned Movement. Asias sense of unity, however, was shattered quickly as inter-state and intra-state conflicts, exacerbated by narrow nationalism and Cold War geopolitics, enveloped the region. As the West prepared for a triage of the new nations, the so-called Asian Tigers surprised the world by demonstrating the prospects for rapid economic growth through globalisation in the 1960s. Their example was emulated by others, including China and India, in the subsequent decades. Their separate efforts turned Asia into the worlds economic powerhouse and laid the foundation for the great reverse in the balance of power between the East and the West. Complementing the rise of an economic Asia was the new institutional Asia. If Asian regionalism and internationalism in Asia rapidly dissipated in the 1950s, the end of the Cold war saw the dramatic expansion of trans-regional institution building in Asia under the leadership of the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN). What seemed an impossible dream in the middle of the 20th century turned into a reality by the beginning of the 21st century amidst the proliferation of regional institutions, including those focusing on political cooperation such as the ASEAN Regional Forum, the East Asia Summit and the Conference on Interaction and Confidence-Building in Asia. Asian nations are now more economically connected than ever before. They are striving to deepen regional integration through trade liberalisation agreements at the sub-regional, trans-regional and international levels. In the middle of the 20th century, regionalism ran into opposition in Asia from those emphasising economic sovereignty. Today Asian nations have the luxury of dealing with competing trade pacts. As it seeks to build an economic community among its ten members, the ASEAN is also promoting the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership with six other partners China, Japan, Korea, India, Australia and New Zealand. The United States has led the effort to draft a more ambitious trade pact among 12 nations, including some members of the ASEAN, called the Trans-Pacific Partnership. China has proposed a much wider arrangement called the Free Trade Area of the Asia Pacific. Meanwhile, market forces are pushing different parts of Asia and its immediate neighbourhood together. The rise of China and India has made them the largest and preferred customers for the oil resources of the Gulf and mineral resources of Africa. Trade, investment and aid volumes from China and India with the Middle East and Africa have surged. Beijing has also lead the creation of new Asian and international financial institutions such as the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank and the New Development Bank under the non-geographic forum BRICS involving Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa. Its ambitious Belt and Road initiative to build physical connectivity across borders promises to recast Asias economic geography. Its project for overland industrial belts extend all across Eurasia. Beijings Maritime Silk Road project connects the Indian and Pacific Oceans, long viewed as separate maritime domains. Japan, which had led the efforts in the second half of the 20th century to build Asian infrastructure, is now taking fresh initiatives. As a result of these initiatives, Asia is going to be more intricately tied to itself through new roads, high-speed railway systems, energy pipelines and optical fibre networks. The moment to celebrate the extraordinary triumph of the idea of Asian unity, however, seems to be marred by the re-emergence of conflict and power rivalry in the region. Regaining control of national destinies was one of the main objectives of the post-colonial states in Asia. The region today is no longer a mere theatre for European colonial powers. It is the motor of global growth and has agency in shaping the worlds financial and political order. If the reviled Vasco da Gama moment has ended in Asia, the region is also facing sharp internal divisions. While the focus of the last two decades has been on the shifting balance between Asia and the West in favour of the former, the region is now coming to terms with structural changes in the evolution of Asias internal balance of power. The rapid rise of China relative to the other powers in Asia has raised big questions about the future strategic order in Asia. China has overtaken Japan to become the second largest economy in the world and is poised to surpass the US in the near future. The widespread hopes for Beijings peaceful rise have evaporated amidst the sharpening maritime territorial conflicts between China and its neighbours. To make matters worse, the great power harmony in Asia that has existed since the normalisation of Sino-American relations in the 1970s and the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 has been replaced by mounting tension between China and Japan on the one hand, and between Beijing and Washington on the other. There is renewed emphasis on alliances, defence partnerships and military modernisation across the continent. At the same time, the project to build a comprehensive cooperative security architecture for the region is in disarray. There are deep disagreements on the nature, scope and terms of any such arrangement, some of which have turned the idea of Asia into a contested one. One view, articulated with great vigour in Beijing, reaffirms the slogan of Asia for Asians and demands that outside powers quit the region. Others wary of Chinese power eagerly seek American military presence in the region. As they develop strategic partnerships with America, they also strengthen military cooperation among themselves as an insurance against a potential US-China duopoly in the region. A century after the ideas of unity and shared identity gained regional traction, Asia enjoys levels of integration and cooperation that few could have imagined. Yet, the political fault lines in the region have never been so deep. Engagement and Isolation As Asia enters a period of great churning, the question of Indias role in the region has become an important one. The great potential and persistent challenges to Indias role in Asia can be seen in terms of a paradox: Through the ages, India was both a self-contained (sub)continent in itself as well as the geographic pivot between different parts of Asia. Indias history has seen periods of expansive engagement with the neighboring regions interrupted by extended periods of self-imposed isolation. This pattern has repeatedly played out over the centuries. The dynamic interaction with the Aryans from inner Asia, its maritime linkages with Greece and Rome, the spread of Buddhism from India by land and sea and its links to the Silk Road all marked a significant interaction with the world in the pre-Christian and immediate post-Christian era. This engagement took place despite the physical barriersthe seas to the south, the deserts to the west and the great Himalayas to the north and east. When the Indian society turned inward around the 10th century, its engagement with the world was confined to the margins of the subcontinent. In this era too, the impact of Muslim rulers from Arabia, Turkey and Central Asia saw the enrichment of Indian society. But it was the rise of capitalism in Europe and the colonial era that dramatically reconnected India to the world. While it subjected India to alien rule, colonial rule began the process of globalising Indian economy. The region was no longer producing for itself and trading with the limited agrarian surpluses. The new era saw local production for global markets and the emergence of India itself as a market for goods produced elsewhere in the world. The colonial era also saw the movement of Indian capital and labour across the world and formed the foundation for Indias global footprint and human connectivity. Through the colonial era, India became the economic connector of different regions in Asia and in the Indian Ocean littoral. The colonial era saw the construction of three major portsBombay, Madras and Calcuttathat became critical nodes in the new global maritime trading network. The British Raj continuously opened new markets and new trading routes between India and its abutting regions in inner Asia, from Xinjiang to Yunnan. It built road and rail networks, much in the manner that China is doing with its Silk Road initiative today. At the political level, the colonial Raj saw the territorial consolidation of India. Although the Raj never fully approximated to the coherence of modern European states, it did become the largest empire that the subcontinent had ever seen. The need to concentrate the means of violence under colonial rule saw the creation of a massive armed force, that built on the many indigenous formations before. This force inevitably emerged as the centre of British imperial defence system. Indias armed forces became the main security provider in the Indian Ocean and its abutting regionsfrom the South China Sea to the Mediterranean and from Southern Africa to Siam. Independent India, wittingly or unwittingly, abandoned this legacy of a massive external economic and military engagement with Asia and the Indian Ocean. By making a conscious choice in favour of economic self-reliance and import substitution, India disconnected itself from the regional markets. The great Partition of made matters worse by breaking up the political and economic unity of the subcontinent. The creation of new borders and the tensions between India and Pakistan meant that the regions military energies, directed outward during the Raj, were now turned inwards. The unification of China, its control of Tibet, and the boundary dispute between Delhi and Beijing resulted in shutting down the long frontier between India and China. If an insular approach to development diminished Indias relative economic weight in Asia and the Indian Ocean, Delhis foreign policy rooted in non-alignment reduced Indias weight in the security politics of Asia. That India became increasingly isolated in a region that was its natural space for leadership underlined the tragic paradox of Indias foreign policy in the early decades after independence. It took the end of the Cold War and an internal economic reorientation to put Asia back at the Centre of Indias foreign and economic policies. Reconnecting India That Indias Look East policy came in the wake of its economic reforms initiated at the turn of the 1990s was not surprising. Reconnecting to Asia, Delhi recognised, was critical for the modernisation of the Indian economy that had fallen behind the rest of the region and to rejuvenate its foreign policy in the new era. Since then, India has made considerable advances in connecting with Asia. It is now part of the major regional institutions, has growing economic and trade links and has stepped up its security cooperation with most Asian nations. Yet, there is a widespread sense of disappointment in Asia with Indias recent record in the East. Asias regional dynamicin economic, political and strategic domainshas moved much faster than Delhi's readiness to adapt. Asia today hopes that the Act East policy unveiled by the government of Narendra Modi will bridge the gap between Indias promise and performance. To meet the regional expectations for leadership, India will need to accelerate its internal economic reforms, deepen its integration with its South Asian neighbours, seize the opportunities for strengthening physical connectivity with different parts of Asia, play a more active role in the regional institutions and intensify its defence diplomacy. Delhi cannot afford to miss the unprecedented opportunity to accelerate Asias march towards prosperity or disavow the historic responsibility to shape its future political order. This is first in the series of special essays brought to you by Firstpost ahead of the #Raisina Dialogue that begins in New Delhi on Tuesday. #Raisina is India's first MEA sponsored global conclave on geopolitics and geoeconomics, Firstpost is the media partner. The outcome of the 2014 elections will continue to puzzle political pundits because of some unprecedented statistical occurrences. The mandate, in terms of the combined vote shares of the two national parties, the BJP and the Congress, remains around 50 percent. This means Indian voters continue to give roughly 50 percent of the votes to parties other than the Congress and the BJP. Yet the BJP has managed 282 seats in Parliament largely due to an unprecedented vote share to seats conversion ratio in Indias electoral history. With just 31 percent vote share, the BJP has managed 282 seats. This works out to over 9 seats for every 1 percent vote share. This statistical occurrence is so rare that it makes you wonder if such a share to seat conversion ratio can be repeated by the BJP in the future. Comparisons with other electoral outcomes might give you an idea of how the BJPs vote share to seats conversion could well prove to be a one-time occurrence. For instance, the Congress got about 29 percent vote share in 2009 which converted to 206 seats. This works out to roughly 7 seats for every 1 percent vote received. At this rate of vote to seat conversion, the Congress would have needed 40 percent vote share in 2009 to get 282 seats, which is BJPs tally in 2014. The BJP has managed this with just 31 percent vote share. A parallel can be drawn with the feat of an athlete achieving an unbelievable timing on some rare steroid in a first-past-the-post race. The only difference being that the performance enhancing factor in Modis case was the way he meticulously fashioned his campaign by exposing the Congress rule and offering his own packaged dream. Logically, one can conclude that Modi will find it nearly impossible to repeat his current vote to seat conversion even if he does reasonably well in his five year tenure. Of course, he can attempt to increase the BJPs overall vote share well beyond the 31 percent mark and thus get a simple majority even on a lower vote share to seat conversion ratio. But for that to happen, the regional parties must lose substantial vote share from their present tally. Before the BJP managed 282 seats with just 31 percent vote share, the lowest vote share of a single party with a majority in Parliament was in 1967 when the Congress won 283 seats with a 40.8 percent of the total votes polled. This works out to about 7 seats for every 1 percent vote received by the party. The big wave election of 1977 saw the Janata Party sweep to power with 295 seats with 41.3 percent of the total votes polled. The vote to seat conversion here again works out to about 7.2 seats for every 1 percent vote, a little better than the conversion rate in 1967. The biggest wave election in Indias electoral history happened after Indira Gandhis assassination in November 1984. The Congress got a massive mandate of 414 seats in Parliament and bagged 48 percent of all votes polled. The vote share to seats conversion in this unprecedented, one-way election was 8.7 seats for every 1 percent of votes polled in favour of the Congress. What is interesting is that the BJP in 2014 has bettered the Congress feat of 1984 with vote to seat conversion ratio of 9.1 seats for every 1 percent vote it received. This is what makes the BJPs vote to seat conversion ratio puzzling. Normally, it should be assumed that the bigger the wave, the better the vote share as well as the vote to seat conversion. There is some positive correlation between high vote share and vote to seat conversion in a big wave situation, as seen in 1984. However, in 2014, the BJP got a big vote to seat conversion but did not get a vote share one would associate with a big wave. This is probably because the Modi wave was confined to Central and North Indias Hindi speaking areas where it virtually decimated the Congress and some caste-based regional parties. However, outside of North and Central India, the regional parties have gained massively and consolidated their vote share and seats in the most remarkable manner. Jayalalitha, Naveen Patnaik and Mamata Banerjee have all increased their partys vote share to nearly 40 percent and above, and grabbed the bulk of the seats in their respective states, wiping out the opposition. The unprecedented performance of the regional parties beyond the Hindi belt gives a picture which contradicts the narrative that national parties are back in the reckoning, as the BJPs performance might suggest. The counter narrative to the return of the national parties is the fact that Andhra Pradesh, one of the largest states electorally, has been completely snatched away by two new regional parties TRS and YSR Congress and the TDP! Far from regional parties becoming weaker, the real story seems to be that the BJP has got some 165 seats more than its 2009 tally while the Congress has lost 162 seats compared to its 2009 performance. The Congress vote share in 2014 has dropped to 19.5 percent, which is a tad more than what BJP had (18.8 percent) in 2009. The only difference is that the BJP managed to get 116 seats in 2009 on a vote share of 18.8 percent whereas the Congress got just 44 seats on a vote share of 19.5 percent. So just as the BJPs vote to seat conversion peaked and set a historical record, the Congresss vote share to seat conversion has hit a historic low of 2.2 seats for every 1 percent of votes received. This, too, is a rare statistical occurrence and it remains to be seen if it can be repeated in the future in a less polarised election. The other rare statistical occurrence is Mayawatis Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) bagging 20 percent vote share in Uttar Pradesh and yet not getting even one out of the 80 seats. This can also be attributed to the whim of the first past the post system. After all the BJP got 10 Lok Sabha seats in UP in 2009 with just 17 percent vote share! The BSP might have won in some constituencies if the Congress had agreed to a seat adjustment with Mayawati which in fact was being negotiated. This would have helped Mayawati get some seats as the BSP was at number two position in many constituencies. Apparently, the seat adjustment fell through. In fact, the Congress has polled abysmally low votes less than 70,000, in a large number of seats in UP. This suggests it need not have contested in all the seats. Overall, the BJP was lucky to have been helped by a rare set of circumstances which helped it get those 60 additional seats. If one takes the average vote share to seats conversion ratio over the past two decades, it has not crossed 7.5 seats for every 1 percent of vote polled by the coalition leading party. If that is taken as a normal benchmark, the BJP should have got about 232 Lok Sabha seats, which was the figure being mentioned by most exit polls. Hence, the fact seems to be that the vagaries of the first-past-the-post system is what has helped the BJP get a simple majority with just 31 percent vote share. If the BJP claims that the election was a referendum on Modi then they will fall victim to the argument that 69 percent of the voters voted against Modi. If one goes by Arun Jaitley's budget speech utterances, it can safely be assumed that politics makes the finance minister. Contrary to his suave and urbane image, Jaitley devoted a substantial part of his speech to the governments attempt to fix rural distress. And what is the origin of this term rural distress? As recently as six months ago, the government had ignored the existence of such a phrase. Buoyed by fantastic success in the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the government was accused of consistently ignoring disturbing trends emanating from rural India. But the BJPs humiliating drubbing in the Bihar election seems to have impelled the party to recast its strategy. With UP elections coming up, the budget speech by Jaitley presents a plethora of promises which will turn rural Indian into a promised land of prosperity. Take for instance his decision to earmark Rs 15,000 crore to bail out farmers trapped by debt. There is incentive for pulse production and procurement. Outlay for MGNREGA, which was described by Prime Minister Narendra Modi as a monument of the UPA governments failure has been augmented with aplomb. Rs 2.78 lakh crore has been allocated for gram panchayats and municipal corporations to grant them the financial autonomy so they may evolve their own developmental plan. Similarly there will be an attempt to create 300-odd rurban (rural-urban) centres across the country to win over the neo-middle class, a section that lent its full weight to Modi, propping him up as the most powerful leader of the country. Jaitley declared that as on 23 February, 5,542 of 18,500 villages without power have been provided electricity. Most of these villages are in Bihar and Uttar Pradesh. There is large allocation of infrastructure development in the transport sector (including railways, and roads in urban and rural areas) to the tune of Rs 2.18 lakh crores to promote growth and easy transport to the poor and middle-class. AS has been the norm, the finance minister talked about demographic advantage and promised to develop skill centres to pave the way for economic prosperity. The government has deliberately avoided committing itself to a target of achieving fiscal deficit in order to have funds with which to play. It appears there is nothing in the budget to fault. Except politics. Take for example the governments overt disposition to a socialist agenda, which comes at a time when a famine is lurking in Delhis backyard - Bundelkhand. Hundreds of people in the benighted region are reported to have perished because of non-availability of food-grains and basic facilities. In this region, the Centre is seen no less culpable than the Akhilesh Yadav government in UP for allowing such a frightening situation to develop. Similarly in west UP and east UP where payment of sugarcane prices is still a burning issue, the region is apparently in ferment and turning against the BJP. Though Jaitley came out with an ambitious project of digitising Agricultural Produce Market Committees (APMC) and doing away with rules that prohibit transfer of agriculture produce, it will take long fir these steps to bear fruit. Similarly in eastern UP, which is contiguous to Bihar geographically, with uncanny similarity in social composition, rural distress is quite evident on account of successive monsoon failures. The region is already backward as it lacks industrialisation and urbanisation as compared to west UP. There is no doubt that that the budget outlines the political priorities of the government. Jaitley cannot be oblivious to the fact that his partys politics would be adrift if the issue of rural distress were not addressed in this document. Given the fact that UP is largely a rural economy, this budget is more focused on addressing the electorate in UP. This was true of the Railway Budget in which nearly 35 per cent of the newly commissioned projects were allocated to UP. Since UP is the flavor of the political season, can Jaitley be faulted for this? I hope not. If one jogs the memory a bit and recounts the days after the Nirbhaya episode that generated much heat and dust, the then finance minister P Chidamabaram declared that he would set up a Rs 1,000 crore nirbhaya-fund. That fund remained largely unused. Now, with the times changing, this is not even mentioned. This proves beyond doubt that politics maketh the finance minister. Ludhiana: Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal's car was attacked on Monday by protesters allegedly belonging to Akali Dal. They pelted stones on the vehicle breaking its windshield, but the AAP leader escaped unhurt. The Aam Aadmi Party alleged that it was an "orchestrated attack" and that police stood by as Kejriwal's car was targeted with rods and stones. Police said activists belonging to Akali Dal and Danga Peedit Association were protesting against Kejriwal outside the venue where the Delhi Chief Minister was holding a party function here. Due to presence of protesters, the police decided to arrange his exit from the back side of the banquet hall, said a police spokesman. But, the protesters came to know about it. They rushed there and pelted stones, breaking the wind shield of Kejriwal's Innova vehicle. Kejriwal immediately lodged a strong protest with Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP), Rural, Harcharan Singh Brar, who was present there, telling him that whatever happened was not right. The Delhi Chief Minister then drove away in his car. Kejriwal later said that his car was attacked by sticks and stones and that Akali Dal and Congress were nervous. "My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals n congress nervous? They can't break my spirits," the Delhi Chief Minister said on social media platform Twitter. My car attacked with sticks and stones in Ludhiana. Front glass pane broken. Badals n congress nervous? They can't break my spirits Arvind Kejriwal (@ArvindKejriwal) February 29, 2016 Kejriwal was in the city on the last day of his five-day tour of Punjab during which he visited various cities including Jalandhar, Amritsar, Ferozepur, Sangrur and Bathinda to reach out to people ahead of 2017 Assembly polls. He was scheduled to visit Ludhiana, Fatehgarh Sahib and Patiala before returning to Delhi on Monday. The AAP lashed out at the ruling Akali Dal in Punjab over the attack. "In a well orchestrated attack the goons sent by Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones & rods as police stood by. "The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was by only God's grace that he escaped unhurt," party leader Ashish Khetan tweeted. In a well orchestrated attack the goons sent by Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones & rods as police stood by pic.twitter.com/5fjyumO1JD Ashish Khetan (@AashishKhetan) February 29, 2016 The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was by only God's grace that he escaped unhurt. Ashish Khetan (@AashishKhetan) February 29, 2016 The groundswell of mass support for @ArvindKejriwal has unnerved the Badals. This cowardly assault wont go down well with the ppl of Punjab Ashish Khetan (@AashishKhetan) February 29, 2016 Kejriwal was at Boha village of Ludhiana where two Dalit youths Harinder Singh and Jatinder Singh were killed in alleged "fake encounter" by police a couple of years ago. "Terror of Badals is all set to end after one year", Kejriwal told the family of the slain youths. PTI By Shreerupa Mitra-Jha In an impassioned speech to the UN Human Rights Council (HRC) the UN human rights commissioner slammed leaders for pandering to simplistic nationalism for settling challenges which itself reflects the mind-set of extremists and warned that this may lead to a colossus of violence and death. Human rights violations are like a signal, the sharp zig-zag lines of a seismograph flashing out warnings of a coming earthquake. Today, those jagged red lines are shuddering faster and higher, said the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Zeid Raad Al Hussein on Monday at the opening session of the 31st session of the HRC. These shocks are being generated by poor decisions, unprincipled and often criminal actions, and narrow, short-term, over-simplified, approaches to complex questions, he added. He said that the poor decisions are based on "broad-based malice", "irresponsibility" and sometimes "eye-watering stupidity" that crushes the lives of millions of people. Instead of taking a reasoned and cooperative approach to settling challenges including the rise of violent extremism, the growing number of armed conflicts, and the movement of people seeking safety many leaders are pandering to a simplistic nationalism, which mirrors the simplified and destructive 'us' versus 'them' mind-set of the extremists, and fans a rising wind of prejudice and fear, he said. When leaders express, or ignite, waves of hate speech, as we have seen in recent months hate speech against migrants, and specific ethnic and religious groups they are setting off shock-waves, whose impact will lead to violence, Zeid warned. The key drafters of the UN charter were pragmatists who had experienced the consequences of societies that are thrown violently into imbalance as it was by the feral nationalisms and ideologies of the extreme left and right, the High Commissioner said. The UN human rights chief also urged the 47 member states to act with courage and with principle, and to take a strong stand regarding the protection of civilians and to gather lessons from the great integrative forces of history. India is currently a member of the HRC. Zeid also deplored the clamping down of governments against grassroots activists, journalists and political opponents and said that by doing so they are dismantling the integrity of their societies and the people's trust and respect for fundamental institutions. The President of the UN General Assembly (UNGA), Mogens Lykketoft, also urged governments not to discriminate against specific groups. We must not attack civil society or further restrict their ability to conduct their legitimate activities, he said. The current four-week session of the HRC will be the busiest ever since the Council was established exactly 10 years back by the UNGA. The HRC is an inter-governmental body within the UN system made of 47 states responsible for strengthening the promotion and protection of human rights across the globe. The member states are elected on a geographical rotational basis. The new president of the HRC is the South Korean diplomat , Choi Kyong-lim, who took up his post on 1 January 2016. The HRC this session will be attended by more than 100 high-level dignitaries and will discuss human rights violations in countries like Syria, North Korea, Burundi, Eritrea, Iran, Myanmar. The Council will also have dialogues with UN special rapporteurs for right to privacy, on situation of human rights defenders, torture and other cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment of punishment, on the sale of children, child prostitution and child pornography. The Council will have a high-level panel discussion on human rights mainstreaming, that will be attended by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, and on preventing violent extremism. Apart from that, member states will vote on about 26 important resolutions. BAGHDAD Islamic State's deadliest attacks for months in and around Baghdad could be a sign that Iraqi forces are stretched thin after recent advances to reclaim territory from the group, according to some military commanders and a provincial official. Iraqi forces backed by air strikes from a U.S.-led coalition retook the northern city of Baiji in October and then Ramadi, 100 km (60 miles) west of Baghdad, at the end of last year. But the government's determination to move on the militant stronghold of Mosul in the far north this year has prevented the military from consolidating gains on the northern and eastern outskirts of Ramadi, said the commanders. They said this has allowed Islamic State fighters to regroup and continue sending weapons from deep inside the "caliphate" to Falluja and Garma - areas just west of Baghdad where security officials said Sunday's attacks were launched from. A twin suicide bombing in the Sadr City district of Baghdad killed 78 people. Islamic State also said it was behind an assault on police and army positions in the western outskirts of Abu Ghraib, which killed 24 security forces and gave the insurgents control of the country's largest grain silo for most of the day. Iraqi officials and a spokesman for the U.S.-led coalition said the Baghdad attacks were aimed primarily at boosting the militants' morale after losing ground in Ramadi two months ago. But the attacks have raised questions about security in the capital, home to four million people, and the government's ability to move on Mosul this year without letting other reclaimed areas fall back under the group's control. The closest Islamic State position to Baghdad - which has never been under the group's control - is Falluja, 50 km to the west, which Iraqi forces have been encircling for months. Sunday's attackers were able to breach the military's defences there and in the adjacent area of Garma, officials said. Two Iraqi army officers stationed near Ramadi told Reuters that a shortage of troops had slowed the military's advance to a crawl in the city's northern and eastern outskirts. Most of the elite counter-terrorism forces that spearheaded the city's capture have been redeployed elsewhere and replaced by less effective army and police units. "After the seizure of Ramadi, military operations have abated. That was a tactical mistake as Daesh fighters were given the chance to take a breath and regroup," said a colonel from the ninth division, using an Arabic acronym for Islamic State. "We need more reinforcements to fill the gap left by the counter-terrorism forces if we want to keep the momentum high." The colonel also criticised the government's decision to mobilise hundreds of troops this month to Makhmour, a base south of Mosul. "Every single soldier is needed to drive the remaining pockets of Daesh from rural areas around Ramadi," he said by phone. "This is what I call blundering army tactics." Fadhil Abu Ragheef, a Baghdad-based security analyst, said a nine-month offensive in Garma by Iraqi forces "had not achieved any victory worth mentioning", leaving Islamic State militants there the space to launch the Abu Ghraib attack. PROTECTING BAGHDAD Iraqi military spokesman Brigadier General Yahya Rasool said Iraq had sufficient forces for operations on multiple fronts. "We won't neglect anything," he told Reuters. "Everything is planned. There is the joint operations command and a planning committee that includes highly competent senior officers and we are working on the plans." Yet according to Falih al-Essawi, deputy head of the provincial council of Anbar where Ramadi and Falluja are located, the Abu Ghraib attack should be a "red flag" to the government to review security in the capital. "When Daesh fighters control an area that is a 15-minute drive from Baghdad, that means there are serious security flaws that need to be addressed," he said. Islamic State threatened to overrun Baghdad 20 months ago during its advance through northern and western areas after crossing the Syrian border but the capital has since seen relative calm. The authorities said this month they were reorganising checkpoints and closing gaps in the perimeter around Baghdad in a bid to prevent further militant attacks. In the Abu Ghraib attack, the militants infiltrated the city from Garma and Falluja using all-terrain vehicles so they could use dirt roads to evade detection by Iraqi forces, security officials said. Security forces mostly regained control of Abu Ghraib by Sunday evening, including a grain silo and a cemetery where Islamic State had dug in for hours. Essawi and a trade ministry official suggested the attack was partly motivated by Islamic State's desire to seize wheat stored in the silo to feed residents in the encircled areas of Falluja and Garma, but said the militants had not managed to take the supplies before fleeing. SLEEPER CELLS Army Lieutenant Colonel Fadhil al-Mohammadawi said the military was still pursuing militants on Monday in rural areas of Abu Ghraib and checking for sleeper cells suspected of participating in the attacks. Two witnesses said on Monday that Islamic State paraded the bodies of 12 Iraqi soldiers through the streets of Garma in the back of a pickup truck. Images distributed online by Islamic State supporters showed several bodies clad in military uniforms in the back of a muddy white pickup truck, along with Humvees and army trucks allegedly seized in Sunday's attacks. Reuters could not verify the authenticity of the photos or the witness accounts. Coalition spokesman U.S. Army Colonel Christopher Garver said local commanders were right to be concerned about holding territory recently recovered from Islamic State but added that planning already takes such concerns into consideration. The coalition has so far trained about 2,000 Anbar police to be the main holding force in Ramadi, he added. Graver said the formation that attacked Abu Ghraib was not "particularly large" and showed that the coalition and the Iraqis were succeeding in preventing Islamic State from conducting major resupply and manoeuvring. "You'll never be able to get the noose so tight that a well-trained person can't move in and out of the area," he said, but the Iraqi military "now stands its ground and even if they were to tactically fall back as we've seen a couple times, they retake the ground". Graver said it was up to the Iraqi government to decide how best to mobilise its limited resources to advance towards Mosul. "You don't want to just pick up and move everything because you don't want to give back the ground that you just took, and so far we haven't seen that." (Additional reporting by Kareem Raheem and Stephen Kalin; Writing by Stephen Kalin; Editing by Pravin Char) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. Baghdad: Militants attacked an outdoor market on Sunday in eastern Baghdad, killing at least 70 people and wounding nearly 100, said officials. A bomb ripped through the crowded Mredi market in the Shiite district of Sadr City, said a police officer. Minutes later, a suicide bomber blew himself up amid the crowd that had gathered at the site of the first bombing, he added. Interior Ministry spokesman Sad Main said the bombings killed 38 people and wounded another 62. Multiple hospital officials later increased the casualty toll to 73 dead and 95 wounded. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity as they were not authorized to release information. The attack was the deadliest in a wave of recent explosions that have targeted commercial areas in and outside Baghdad. In the town of Mahmoudiya, about 30 kilometers (20 miles) south of Baghdad, three shoppers were killed and 10 wounded in a bomb explosion, another police officer said. Four others were killed in a separate bomb attack in Baghdad's southern Dora neighborhood, he added. The Islamic State-affiliated Aamaq news agency later claimed responsibility for the Sadr City bombings. The militant Sunni Muslim group controls key areas in northern and western Iraq and regularly targets government forces, civilians and especially Shiites, who the IS regards as heretics. The attacks came hours after security forces repelled an attack by IS militants on the capital's western suburb of Abu Ghraib, said officials. Three suicide car bombers struck a security force barracks as gunmen opened fire, according to two police officers. At least 12 members of government and paramilitary security forces were killed and 35 wounded, they added. The clashes left a silo on fire, they said. The commander of military operations in western Baghdad, Maj. Gen Saad Harbiya, said the situation is "under control" and a local curfew has been imposed. Abu Ghraib, about 18 miles (29 kilometers) from downtown Baghdad, is the location of a prison of the same name where U.S. troops committed notorious abuses against Iraqi detainees following the 2003 invasion. Citing the unstable security situation in the surrounding area, Iraqi authorities closed the prison in April 2014. It is halfway between Baghdad and Fallujah, which is controlled by the IS group. Security forces prevented IS from seizing Abu Ghraib when the extremists swept across northern and western Iraq in the summer of 2014. AP Idomeni (Greece): Hundreds of refugees on Monday tried to break through a border fence into Macedonia from Greece where more than 6,000 people are stranded, as Germany lashed out at EU states for abandoning Greece to refugee chaos. Macedonian police fired tear gas as a group of some 300 Iraqi and Syrian protesters forced their way through a Greek police cordon and raced towards a railway track where they tried to get through the barbed wire marking the frontier between the two countries, an AFP correspondent said. "Open the borders!" they shouted, prompting police to fire volleys of tear gas which prevented them from crossing. The angry protest took place several hours after Macedonia allowed some 300 Syrians and Iraqis to cross before resealing the frontier, keeping thousands of others out. With Austria and Balkan states capping the numbers of migrants entering their territory, there has been a swift buildup along the Greece-Macedonia border with Athens warning that the number of people "trapped" on its soil could reach as many as 70,000 by next month. As the bottleneck showed little sign of easing, German Chancellor Angel Merkel lashed out at a raft of restrictions imposed by Austria and the Balkan states, saying they risked plunging debt-ridden Greece into refugee chaos. "We can't just abandon this country," she said in an interview late on Sunday, pointing the finger at Austria, whose introduction of restrictions on February 19 triggered a domino effect. "When one insists on his border, the other suffers. That's not my Europe." On the ground, thousands continued to mass at the Idomeni crossing in the hope it would be opened after a day of protests in which scores of people lay down on the railway tracks, among them women and children, some holding slogans reading "Open borders" and "We are humans, not animals". Macedonia had allowed in another group of 300 on Saturday night, Greek police said. The build-up at Idomeni camp, which can accomodate up to 1,500 people but is currently sheltering more than 6,000, began in earnest last week after Macedonia began refusing entry to Afghans and imposed stricter controls on Syrians and Iraqis. EU members Slovenia and Croatia quickly followed suit along with Serbia, with all four states imposing a daily limit of 580 migrants. The spate of border closures was sparked by Austria's announcement it would accept no more than 80 asylum claims per day and cap the numbers of those seeking to cross its territory, in a move Merkel said was responsible for the current buildup. "Because Austria decided on a limit of 80 per day, and not one more, we have reached today's situation," she said in a TV interview with public broadcaster ARD, saying the move and the subsequent border restrictions in the Balkans had left Greece in the lurch. AFP London: Countries that have banned female genital mutilation (FGM) should allow less invasive practices such as small surgical nicks to girls' genitalia as a compromise, two American gynecologists said on Monday. But campaigners against FGM strongly criticized the proposal, saying it would undermine global efforts to eradicate the internationally condemned ritual. At least 200 million girls and women have been subjected to FGM in over 30 countries, according to UN estimates. The ancient practice usually involves the partial or total removal of a girl's external genitalia. In some cases the vaginal opening is also sewn up. But some communities practice less invasive rituals such as pricking or nicking the clitoris. The US gynecologists, writing in the Journal of Medical Ethics, argued that permitting more minimal procedures could allow families to uphold cultural and religious traditions while protecting girls from more dangerous forms of cutting. Communities which support FGM often consider it a prerequisite for marriage. Many also see it as a religious obligation although it is not m entioned in the Koran or Bible. But FGM can cause a host of physical and psychological problems. Gynecologists Kavita Shah Arora and Allan Jacobs said procedures that slightly changed the look of a girl's genitalia without damaging them were comparable to male circumcision or cosmetic procedures in Western countries like labiaplasty. Laws against mild modifications were "culturally insensitive and supremacist and discriminatory towards women", they wrote in the specialist journal, which is published by the British Medical Journal. Behind the times FGM is practiced in a swathe of African countries, pockets of Asia and the Middle East, as well as by diaspora communities living in the West. The gynecologists suggested that global attempts to stamp out FGM with legislation had failed and may by driving the practice underground. "We are not arguing that any procedure on the female genitalia is desirable," they said. "Rather, we only argue that certain procedures ought to be tolerated by liberal societies." They said the term "female genital mutilation" should be replaced with the less emotive "female genital alteration" (FGA) to avoid "demonizing important cultural practices". But experts on medical ethics, commenting on the proposal, said procedures to modify girls' genitals could not be compared to male circumcision because they are designed to control women and curb their sexual desire. They also predicted that legalizing more minimal procedures would generate a litany of legal, regulatory and medical problems. Global campaigners against FGM said doctors should challenge harmful social norms, not condone them. "Any form of FGM is a violation of a child's rights," said Adwoa Kwateng-Kluvitse, head of global advocacy at the charity Forward which campaigns against FGM in Africa and Europe. "Why would you put a little girl through that? There should be no medicalization of FGM. They (the gynecologists) are completely behind the times. "This is very different to male circumcision. With male circumcision there is no intention to attenuate sexual desire, control sexuality or enforce chastity." Rights group Equality Now said the "medicalization" of FGM remained one of the biggest threats to its elimination. It said FGM prevalence rates had fallen significantly in many countries and that properly implemented laws had been very effective in countries like Kenya. REUTERS Leesburg, Virginia: Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump is drawing criticism for refusing to denounce an implicit endorsement from a white supremacist leader, with his main rivals, Sensators Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio, using the matter to hammer the billionaire businessman just two days before multiple state primaries could put him on an irreversible path to the party's nomination. Trump was asked Sunday on CNN's State of the Union whether he rejected support from David Duke, the former Ku Klux Klan Grand Dragon, and other white supremacists after Duke told his radio followers this week that a vote against Trump was equivalent to "treason to your heritage." "Well, just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke. OK?" Trump told host Jake Tapper. "I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists." Trump was asked Friday by journalists how he felt about Duke's support. He said he didn't know anything about it and curtly said: "All right, I disavow, ok?" Trump hasn't always claimed ignorance on Duke's history. In 2000, he wrote a New York Times op-ed explaining why he abandoned the possibility of running for president on the Reform Party ticket. He wrote of an "underside" and "fringe element" of the party, concluding, "I leave the Reform Party to David Duke, Pat Buchanan and Lenora Fulani. That is not company I wish to keep." Trump's comments sparked a wave of censures just ahead of Super Tuesday 1 March when 11 states hold Republican primaries. At stake are 595 delegates to the party's national convention this summer, with 1,237 needed to win the nomination. On the Democratic side, 865 delegates are up for grabs in Super Tuesday contests in 11 states and American Samoa. It takes 2,383 delegates to gain the Democratic nomination. Hillary Clinton, who received another burst of momentum Saturday after her lopsided victory in South Carolina, turned her attention to the Republican field on Sunday, all-but-ignoring rival Bernie Sanders during campaign events in Tennessee. Starting her morning with stops at two Memphis churches, Clinton offered an implicit critique of Trump, issuing a call to unite the nation and asking worshippers to reject "the demagoguery, the prejudice, the paranoia." Asked by actor Tony Goldwyn, who later campaigned with Clinton in Nashville, about her thoughts on Duke's support for Trump, Clinton described it, simply, as "pathetic." Clinton's South Carolina victory was fueled by an 84-16 advantage among African-Americans, a key Democratic constituency that will also play a dominant role in several Super Tuesday states in the South. Sanders acknowledged getting "decimated" in South Carolina, though he promised in an ABC interview to continue his campaign against what he describes as a political and economic oligarchy. He avoided mentioning his huge South Carolina loss at a rally before more than 6,000 cheering people at an Oklahoma City convention center. The latest shake up in the Republican race comes as attention shifts to the South, with about a half dozen states in the region holding contests on Tuesday. Trump holds commanding leads across the region, with the exception of Cruz's home state of Texas, a dynamic that puts tremendous pressure on Rubio and Cruz as they try to outlast each other and derail Trump. Campaigning in Virginia, Rubio pounced on Trump's latest position on Duke, shifting to a more serious tone after spending the weekend mocking his rival's hair and "the worst spray tan in America." "We cannot be a party who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," the Florida senator told thousands of supporters gathered in Leesburg, Virginia. "Not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable. How are we going to grow the party if we nominate someone who doesn't repudiate the Ku Klux Klan?" Cruz also weighed in on Sunday, calling Trump's comments "Really sad." "You're better than this," Cruz wrote. "We should all agree, racism is wrong, KKK is abhorrent." Trump also garnered backlash Sunday for recently retweeting a quote from Benito Mussolini, the 20th century fascist dictator of Italy, which reads: "It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep." Trump told NBC's Meet the Press on Sunday, "I know who said it. But what difference does it make whether it's Mussolini or somebody else? It's certainly a very interesting quote." Trump has established himself as the front-runner after winning three of the four early voting contests. That's led Rubio and Cruz, both first-term senators, to unleash a personal and policy-based barrage against Trump, warning his nomination would be catastrophic for the Republican Party in the November election and beyond. AP IDOMENI/ATHENS Macedonian police fired teargas to disperse hundreds of migrants who stormed the border from Greece on Monday as a deeply divided Europe traded barbs over the biggest humanitarian crisis in decades. As frustrations boiled over at restrictions imposed on people moving through the Balkans, migrants trapped on the Greece-Macedonia border tore down a metal gate in the barbed wire fence. A Reuters witness said Macedonian police fired several rounds of teargas into the crowd and onto a railway line where other migrants sat refusing to move, demanding to cross into the country. Greece raced to set up temporary accommodation for a build-up of thousands of migrants stranded in the country after Austria and countries along the Balkans migration route imposed restrictions on their borders, limiting the number of migrants able to cross. Many of the migrants, fleeing war and poverty in the Middle East and North Africa, hope to reach Germany, which last year took in 1.1 million asylum seekers. There were an estimated 22,000 migrants and refugees trapped in Greece on Monday, some sleeping rough in central Athens, some in an abandoned airport and at the 2004 Olympic Games venues. Greece's migration minister said without any outlet, that figure could rise as high as 70,000 in coming days. More than 1 million migrants passed through the country last year, prompting criticism from other European nations that Athens was simply waving them through. "These people do not want to stay here," said Thodoris Dritsas, Greece's shipping minister. "Even if we had a system in place for them to stay here permanently it wouldn't work." German Chancellor Angela Merkel, facing the biggest test of her decade in power, on Sunday defended the country's open-door policy for migrants, rejecting any limit on the number of refugees it allowed in despite divisions within the government over the issue. "It is my damn duty to do everything I can so that Europe finds a collective way," she told state broadcaster ARD. That way was lacking on Monday, however, a week before European Union leaders meet with officials from Turkey to discuss how it can help stem the flow of migrants from its shores. In an increasingly shrill debate, Austria's defence minister suggested Merkel take in all those who were stranded in Greece. "The German chancellor ... said that formally there is no upper limit in Germany. Then, I would invite her to take the people, who arrive in Greece now and whom she wants to take care of, directly to Germany," Hans Peter Doskozil told Austria's Oe1 radio. TENT COMMUNITY Thousands of people have been gathering at Idomeni, the small frontier community on Greece's border with Macedonia, for days. Hundreds of tents were pitched in soggy fields on Monday and there were reports that fights had broken out among families over tents, which were in short supply. Macedonian Foreign Minister Nikola Poposki said that there was a problem with shifting in responsibility and shifting the problem to the next border. "Frustration has accumulated because for several days some of these people have been blocked at the Greek border," he told Reuters. Nearly 100 foreign police officers from countries including Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia and Austria were deployed in Macedonia, he said, adding the figure could go up to 350. In a speech to the U.N. Human Rights Council in Geneva, he said that "encouraging" cooperation had been established with Greece on the issue but that it may not be enough. On Monday, a crush developed along the frontier after rumours spread that Macedonian authorities had opened the border. Crowds gathered at the razor wire fence then used a heavy metal pole to bring down a gate. At least two people collapsed in the crush and after teargas was fired at them, Reuters television images showed. Aid agencies said the border was opening with Macedonia intermittently, with about 7,000 people gathered in the area. People were also being sent back for apparent discrepancies between registration documents they received from Greek authorities and their own travel documents, witnesses said. "There are people who have been here for as long as 10 days," said Gemma Gillie of aid agency Medicins Sans Frontieres. "Things are really stretched to the limit." (Reporting By Alexandros Avramidis in Idomeni, Lefteris Karagiannopoulos in Athens, Stephanie Nebehay in Geneva, Kirsti Knolle in Vienna; Writing by Michele Kambas; Editing by Janet Lawrence) This story has not been edited by Firstpost staff and is generated by auto-feed. MOSCOW (Reuters) - Moscow will seek closer ties with the United States but will not tolerate interference in its affairs and wants guarantees a U.S. missile shield will not be used against Russia, under terms of a decree signed by President Vladimir Putin on Monday. Putin set out foreign policy priorities in a wide-ranging document signed hours after his inauguration to a six-year term as president, veering little from an article he wrote on the subject during the election campaign. Moscow wants to bring cooperation with Washington "to a truly strategic level" but relations must be based on "equality, non-interference in internal affairs and respect for one another's interests", the decree said. Russia will "consistently stand up for its policy in connection with the creation by the United States of a global missile defence system, seeking firm guarantees it is not directed against Russia's nuclear deterrent forces". The decree touched on policy around the world, but it served as a message to the United States ahead of Putin's expected meeting with U.S. President Barack Obama, who hosts a Group of Eight industrial powers summit later this month. Relations improved during the presidency of Putin's protege Dmitry Medvedev, who signed a landmark nuclear arms limitation pact with Obama in 2010. But ties have been strained over U.S. and NATO plans for an anti-missile shield in Europe and deep differences over the bloody upheaval in Libya and Syria. Washington says the shield, due to be completed in four phases by about 2020, is to counter a potential threat from Iran. But Russia says it could gain the capability to intercept Russian ICBMs by about 2018. Russia's military chief of staff said on Thursday that Russia was prepared to carry out pre-emptive strikes against missile defence facilities in Europe to protect its security. Diplomatic tensions also rose during Putin's presidential campaign when he accused the United States of backing his domestic opponents, and Washington criticised the treatment of protesters in Russia. Russia and China in February vetoed a U.N. Security Council resolution which condemned Syria's government for a crackdown in which its forces have killed thousands of people and called for President Bashar al-Assad to give up power. In a warning that encompassed both Russia and Syria, Putin's decree said Moscow would "counter attempts to use human rights concepts as an instrument of political pressure and interference in the internal affairs of states". In the Middle East and North Africa, it said, Russia would advocate resolving crises through an end to violence by all sides, national dialogue without preconditions and the principle of non-interference - a repeat of Russia's position on Syria. Closer to home, Putin made clear that strengthening bonds among former Soviet republics from Belarus to Central Asia, and giving Moscow's alliances economic and security alliances with those nations more global clout, are top priorities. The decree called integration among members of the Commonwealth of Independent States a "key foreign policy direction" and reiterated plans for a Eurasian Economic Union, by January 2015, based on ties with Kazakhstan and Belarus. (Writing by Steve Gutterman; Editing by Michael Roddy) By Vikrom Mathur and Tanoubi Ngangom I. The Asian boom Growth, Poverty, Environment The rise of Asia is a central theme in global economic discourses today. Through economic globalisation, countries of the region currently enjoy high to moderate growth rates. Presuming that they sustain this growth momentum, Asias GDP will grow by $157 trillion in just 40 years, and will constitute 50 percent of the global GDP by 2050. Seven countries China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Republic of Korea, Thailand and Malaysia, will drive this process and will be responsible for about 91 percent of Asias total projected growth. However, despite the consistent performance for at least the past two decades, and the associated optimistic forecasts, the region continues to be plagued by basic issues of hunger and poverty: Two-thirds of the worlds hungry population reside in the Asia-Pacific region. In terms of overall poverty, more than 700 million Asians still live below the international benchmark of $1.25 per day. The explosive growth has also left an environmental crisis in its wake. 700 million individuals have to be pulled out of poverty but the environmental carrying capacity of our cities, rivers and landscapes is bursting at its seams. Rapid urbanisation along with corresponding processes of industrialisation has led to severe deterioration in air quality. A staggering 24 percent of the total burden of disease in the Asia-Pacific is attributable to environmental risk factors. These risks are most acute in China and India. A red alert was issued in Beijing in December and schools shut down, as pollution levels were 10 times higher than those recommended by the WHO. In India, the situation is no better, with 13 of the top 20 most polluted cities in the world located in the country. A host of other environmental challenges are constraining development in Asia. Deforestation, soil erosion, desertification and land degradation are disproportionately impacting on the poor. Water is a growing concern in South Asia: Poor domestic management of water resources, along with pressures from population growth and industrialisation, have led to daily water shortages along with increased vulnerability to floods and droughts. Global warming is expected to further exacerbate the development challenge of the region. Given the vast population, rapid rate of urbanisation, and the existence of vulnerable ecosystems such as small island countries, major river systems and long coastal lines, Asia is expected to bear a disproportionate cost of climate change. The poor are most adversely affected by the environmental challenge. In urban areas of Asia the poor live in slums on marginal lands without proper access to social services and the natural resource-dependent livelihoods of farmers are under maximum stress. Securing the Asian century rests on how effectively the region can sustain growth while protecting the environment and ensuring that benefits of growth accrue to all, especially those who still lack basic standards of living. Sustainable development is now part of the economic and political discourse worldwide. The definition of the Brundtland Commission development that meets the needs of the current generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs is generally accepted. It suggests an equal consideration of economic, social and environmental goals. The grand narrative of sustainability needs to brought down to earth; it is a complex multidimensional concept which provides the normative orientation for societal action but the rhetoric needs to be replaced by strategies, policies and practical ways of finding that elusive balance. Social, economic and environmental systems are complex and interlinked. Its difficult to predict how they will interact and change. Sharing the benefits of growth and cleaning up our environmental act will be central to sustaining development to avoid collapse and surprise. Environmental degradation continues to scar Asias economic miracle. Civil society groups and publics in Asian countries are demanding better environmental standards from their governments. Economic growth is driven by private businesses and three broad sets of strategies have emerged to ensure that growth is aligned with environmental objectives: regulations, laws and standards; economic policies and market incentives to support environment-friendly business practices; and voluntary private sector initiatives to improve environmental performance in response to public and investor pressure. II. Cleaning up the environment Environmental degradation continues to scar Asias economic miracle. Civil society groups and publics in Asian countries are demanding better environmental standards from their governments. Economic growth is driven by private businesses and three broad sets of strategies have emerged to ensure that growth is aligned with environmental objectives: regulations, laws and standards; economic policies and market incentives to support environment-friendly business practices; and voluntary private sector initiatives to improve environmental performance in response to public and investor pressure. Regulations, Standards and Laws Most Asian countries now have fairly evolved environmental laws and standards but compliance is the main concern, due to a lack of institutional capacity to enforce them. Capacity varies across the administrative levelscapacity at municipal and local authorities is often the lowest, which is where the most action is needed. Decentralisation of environmental management is an increasing trend across Asia but raises issues of local capacities and conflict across provincial jurisdictions. In India, for example, disputes across provincial borders and river basins have already been witnessed, which complicates top-down efforts towards environmental management and the success of laws and regulatory efforts. Regulation is however critical to drive environmental modernisation. Regulatory standards drive innovation and compel industry to invest in research and development and improve vehicle technologies. This has been proven in the United States White House directives on Corporate Average Fuel Economy standards. Fuel quality standards have to improve in tandem to the technology being used in vehicles. Recent efforts to control pollution in Delhi have also led to a slew of measures demanding use of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) vehicles in all taxis as well as restrictions on the purchase of certain sport utility vehicles. This follows a Supreme Court directive of 1998, which called for the introduction of CNG as fuel for all public transport in India. India has also introduced a tax on coal, which serves to create a fund towards investment in clean energy technologies. Moves to increase regulatory frameworks and improve compliance with environmental law in Asia will in the end require more effective mainstreaming of environmental consideration in sector policies related to land use, water and sanitation, urban development and transport. Economic Policies and Incentives Economic policies and incentives that push for efficiency, cleaner fuel and energy choices and less polluting technologies hold the key to sustainable and effective environmental action. In India fossil fuel subsidies are being phased out in favour of taxes on coal through initiatives such as the Coal Cess. Market-based instruments incentivise consumers, particularly in industry, to reduce consumption, improve energy efficiency and generate savings. For example, the Indian Bureau of Energy Efficiency launched the Perform, Achieve and Trade (PAT) Scheme in 2012. PAT is a market-based mechanism designed to support improvements in energy efficiency in large industries and facilities through the certification of energy savings, which can be traded. The scheme resulted in about $5 billion saved in oil imports, based on average Brent crude prices over the three-year implementation period (2012-15), and electricity savings equivalent to the output of five coal-fired power plants. Incentives and market mechanisms are therefore key policy instruments for engaging industry in pursuing environment-friendly business decisions. Voluntary Actions As Asian companies grow they will need to comply with environment laws and standards but they can also be more proactive and become partners in the sustainable development agenda. Stronger engagement with private sector through mandating corporate social responsibility, disclosure programmes, green procurement strategies, eco-labelling of products and encouraging reports on corporate environmental performance can help engage private sector actors in environmental action. In India, for instance, a law passed in 2014 requires companies to spend two percent of their net profit on social development. While the legislation is a welcome step towards drawing in a wider range of actors in social development efforts, it remains to be seen whether the ruling will simply lead to forced philanthropy with solely symbolic and tick box efforts or, worse, fudging of data in order to avoid compliance. In developed countries the private sector is increasingly under pressure to develop environmentally friendly products and services as a result of growing public preference for the same. Companies are also occasionally forced to source products from the developing world that meet certain minimum conditions with regards to environmental and labour practices. Encouraging eco-labelling to cater to environmentally conscious consumers can at times work better as a strategy than regulation. Voluntary disclosure programmes are also increasingly popular through initiatives such as the Carbon Disclosure Project, an organisation that encourages companies and cities to disclose their environmental impacts to generate data that can change business practices. Environmental performance is becoming an increasingly important criteria to consumers and stakeholders. Improving standards makes increasing sense, from a business point of view, for private sector actors who are afraid to lose market share or see a lowering in stock price. Regional Cooperation Shared efforts at environmental protection are key given that rivers, forests and mountains do not confine themselves to national boundaries. Asian countries are already working together to: share rivers, for example cooperation in the Ganga and Mekong basins; manage contiguous forest areas, such as expanding Indian and Bangladeshi cooperation on the Sunderbans; and manage shared oceans, for example through the Indian Ocean Rim Association. There is also noticeable evidence of regional-think about global problems like climate change, such as through the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) and South Asia Co-operative Environment Program climate initiatives. Regional responses are not only needed where natural resources are shared but are also useful to share knowledge and best practice on localised but common issues. There are several successful examples of regional/sub-regional projects, such as the programme on Asian Brown Cloud run by the UN Environment Program to study seasonal haze in Southeast Asia; Aseans Agreement on Transboundary Haze Pollution and Framework for Environmentally Sustainable Cities; Acid Deposition Monitoring Network in East Asia; South Asias Male Declaration on Control and Prevention of Air Pollution and its likely Transboundary Effects; regional cooperation to control dust storms in Northeast Asia. The Indus Treaty on water sharing between India and Pakistan also stands alone as a success story in an otherwise tense relationship between the South Asian neighbours. III. Sharing growth The Asian growth story is based on leveraging surplus labour for low-cost manufacturing: In fact, this phenomenon has earned the continent the moniker Factory Asia in the global market. The East Asian tigers relied on such an economic model. The spectacular economic growth of China is rooted in a similar model the share of labour income in total national income has declined drastically in under a decade (from 60 percent in 2000 to 43 percent in 2009). Various other Asian countries, including Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and Bangladesh, also depend heavily on the supply of low-wage labour. The very factors responsible for the unprecedented growth in Asia are also feeding rising inequality in the region. The focus on cost-competitive manufacturing means that human resource investment would prove counterproductive by pushing up labour costs. However, the age structure of the Asian population will shift dramatically over the next 40 years, highlighting how unsustainable the current models are. This is something that India, too, will have to contend with. The Indian model, though, must address an additional challenge. Despite it already experiencing the working-population explosion, India has been unable to generate proportionate employment. The countrys growth has been largely due to a small, highly-skilled portion of the labour force engaged in the services sector, which contributed 72.4 percent to the GDP in 2014-15. Indias economy then suffers from the same challenge under-investment in the major portion of its working population. Sustaining economic growth in the future will depend more on output per worker than the actual number of workers, which calls for alternative economic models that are not beholden to labour surplus. While market-oriented reforms have created an economic boom, these market forces themselves are not sufficient. Addressing the development challenges of Asia requires a three-pronged strategy: redistributing income; investing in social sectors; and strengthening social protection. Redistributing Income The current framework has resulted in high income-inequality across the region. Because low-cost manufacturing is based on extremely cheap labour, workers earn paltry remunerations, while factory owners and managers are able to reap much higher profits. In the case of India, highly-skilled workers employed in the productive services sector earn relatively higher incomes in comparison to the rest of the labour force. A recent report by the Peking University shows that the top one percent of Chinese households owns one-third of the countrys wealth while the bottom 25 percent owns just a single percent of the total wealth. The situation in India is worse the richest one percent of the population owns 53 percent of the total economic pie. Inclusive development will require the creation of an efficient taxation system that is able to capture the entire spectrum of the population and leads to more balanced wealth distribution. Apart from satisfying the reallocation objective, higher taxes also mean larger revenue for increased expenditure on social sectors like health and education. Investing in Social Sectors Rising inequality in Asia is not only limited to income; the region is also witnessing widespread disparity in access to health and education facilities, which further widens the income gap. For instance, the probability of poor children (lowest income quintile households) staying out of primary/secondary schools is five times higher than their richer counterparts (highest income quintile households). In terms of health, infant mortality statistics for poorer households are 10-fold that of wealthier ones. This is because countries in Asia generally have parallel health/education systems a high-quality, well-regulated one much like those in western economies catering to the wealthy, and a much more basic one for poorer households. There is a need to build a bridge between these two realities, and this calls for active state intervention to create more comprehensive systems that are able to provide certain minimum quality standards. This will not only bring about better quality of life, but will also dramatically increase the likelihood of obtaining productive employment. Strengthening Social Protection The third strategy relates to the provision of social safety nets. Existing social security infrastructure in Asia is generally weak, with high out-of-pocket health expenditure being the norm. Out-of-pocket expenditure as a share of total private healthcare costs in India stood at 85.9 percent in 2003; the corresponding figure for China was 76.7 percent. Designing suitable social protection frameworks for the Asian region requires a better understanding of local realities. Much like the case of health and education, the regions protection systems are also plagued by a dualistic structure. While those employed in large public and private enterprises are often covered by various social security schemes, the majority of the population who is self-employed and/or works in the informal sector is primarily excluded from such insurance programmes. For instance, public sector employees in India enjoy a range of services subsidised housing, health insurance, pensions and lifelong pensions for surviving spouses, and maternity and sick leave (1). Casting a wider net demands an exploration of ways to effectively capture the informal sector workers. Governments in the region recognise this challenge social protection schemes are oriented towards a different set, which focuses on social assistance. Unlike social security schemes, which tend to disproportionately benefit the wealthier sections, social assistance programmes are specifically targeted towards the poor. Different countries have adopted different types of social assistance: the Philippines model, Pantawid Pamilya, is based on conditional cash transfer to lower-income households. Nepal has a similar cash transfer model. On the other hand, Indias largest social protection programme, the Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act, provides a guaranteed term of employment to every rural household. Despite the existence of such targeted pro-poor initiatives, actual outcomes remain sub-optimal in the face of large leakages and the inability to effectively target poor households. Tackling this challenge requires extensive financial inclusion efforts that link each household to the formal financial net. This will not only allow transfers to bypass multiple bureaucratic check-posts, but will also facilitate expansion of the insurance system. In striving for shared development, attention must also be paid to the widening of pre-existing social divides caused by economic reforms. Already vulnerable groups such as women or rural residents are now exposed to higher competition, and further marginalised. Targeted policies must be created to ensure that Asian countries move towards better social cohesion. IV. Another style of life Political rhetoric that juxtaposes poverty eradication and growth is misplaced: Develop first and then deal with pollution later argument should be cast aside. There is no clear blueprint where we can establish targets and navigate and arrive at sustainable development because the social, economic and environmental system is complex; uncertainty and surprise is likely to challenge how institutions think. We need to design institutions with new mindsets ones that can manage the complex dynamics. Technology has been hailed as the panacea to problems of sustainable development and climate change. However, social changes are equally critical. The Delhi odd-even scheme which restricted vehicular use is an important step in that it opens the policy space for more ambitious regulation in the future. Also, it forced citizens to give up certain privileges they take for granted, thereby opening space to further question consumption patterns and potentially change behaviour. The current modes of production and consumption need to be re-examined and the needs of the weakest in Asia should be at the centre of economic policies. Another style of life that incorporates more socially and environmentally conscious behaviour is vital. A change in mores and values to accompany the potential policy instruments described above will both supplement and broaden the effort to mainstream environmental action with developmental agendas. ----- Other references (1) S Guhan, Social security in India: looking one step ahead, in Poverty in India. Research and Policy, ed B Harriss, S Guhan and RH Cassen (New Delhi: Oxford University Press, 1992) This is part of a series of special essays brought to you by Firstpost ahead of the #Raisina Dialogue that begins in New Delhi on Tuesday. #Raisina is India's first MEA sponsored global conclave on geopolitics and geoeconomics, Firstpost is the media partner. Mogadishu: At least 30 people have been killed in twin bomb attacks claimed by Shebab Islamists in the Somali city of Baidoa, the regional governor said on Monday. "The official number of the dead has reached 30 people all of them civilians and 61 others have been wounded, 15 of them seriously," said Abdurashid Abdulahi, governor of Bay region. An initial car bomb struck a popular restaurant in a busy part of the regional capital Sunday afternoon, with a suicide bomber nearby hitting people as they fled the area. "The explosion occurred in a densely populated area," said Abdirahman Ibrahim, a police officer in Baidoa. Another policeman, Abdi Hared, said there were "twin blasts" from a car bomb and a suicide bomber. The explosions shredded the roofs of nearby buildings, tore chunks out of vehicles and left bodies, plastic chairs and tables strewn across the road. The Al-Qaeda aligned Shebab jihadists claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying local officials were targeted. "The mujahideen carried out two massive explosions in Baidoa targeting restaurants used by members of the apostate South West Administration," the Shebab said in a statement. The regional administration in Baidoa is protected by troops of the 22,000-strong African Union Mission in Somalia (AMISOM), which is protecting the internationally-backed government of Somalia. The African Union's top official for Somalia, Francisco Caetano Madeira, condemned Sunday's attack. "I am saddened by the loss of innocent lives through acts of terror committed by ruthless individuals who have no value for life," he said. On Friday Shebab gunmen stormed a hotel in the capital Mogadishu and bombed a nearby park killing at least 14 people and wounding 18. AFP Baquba: A suicide bomber killed at least 20 people by detonating an explosive belt at a funeral northeast of the Iraqi capital on Monday, security officials said. The blast in Muqdadiyah, which was hit by revenge attacks on homes and mosques after a January suicide bombing, also wounded at least 40 people. The bombing targeted a funeral for a well-known member of the Beni Tamim, one of the main tribes in Diyala province, where Muqdadiyah is located, officials said. There was no immediate claim of responsibility for the attack, but suicide bombings are a tactic almost exclusively employed in Iraq by the Islamic State jihadist group. The Muqdadiyah attack came a day after bombings in a Shiite area of northern Baghdad killed at least 39 people and wounded at least 76, the deadliest attacks in the capital so far this year. IS, a Sunni extremist group, said in an online statement that two of its suicide bombers carried out the Baghdad attacks. IS also claimed bombings at a cafe in Muqdadiyah killed at least 20 people and wounded dozens in January, after which revenge attacks targeted Sunni properties in the area. Human Rights Watch said Shiite militiamen abducted and killed civilians in the Muqdadiyah area after the attack, in addition to burning homes and mosques. Iraq turned to Shiite militia forces in 2014 to help counter an IS onslaught that overran large areas north and west of Baghdad in 2014, and they played a key role in halting the jihadist advance and later pushing them back. But they have also carried out repeated abuses during the conflict that ultimately feed mistrust of the government and are harmful to Baghdad's efforts to reassert and maintain control in recaptured areas. AFP New Delhi: The government on Monday described as unfortunate a letter written by 34 US lawmakers to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing concern over violence against religious minorities in India. External affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup put out a statement saying: Our response to media reports on the letter written by some members of the US Congress on religious freedom in India pic.twitter.com/MBnnBUSdfm Vikas Swarup (@MEAIndia) February 29, 2016 In the letter dated 25 February and released to the media by the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, the 34 US lawmakers said that their strong support for the US-India partnership has encouraged them to relay our grave concerns about the increasing intolerance and violence members of India's religious minority communities experience. We urge your government to take immediate steps to ensure the fundamental rights of religious minorities are protected and the perpetrators of violence are held to account, the letter stated. Of particular concern is the treatment of India's Christian, Muslim and Sikh communities. On June 17, 2014, more than 50 village councils in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh adopted a resolution banning 'all non-Hindu religious propaganda, prayers and speeches' in their communities, it said. According to the US lawmakers, the ban effectively has criminalised the practice of Christianity by around 300 families in the region a day after a mob, including members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Bajrang Dal, attacked and injured six Christians at the village of Sireiguda. Since the ban was implemented, Christians in the Bastar district reportedly have been subjected to physical assaults, denial of government services, extortion, threats of forced expulsion, denial of access to food and water, and pressure to convert to Hinduism, they alleged. Stating that they were also concerned about the nearly country-wide beef ban, the US lawmakers referred to the killing of Mohammad Hasmat Ali in Manipur in November for stealing a cow and the murder of Mohammad Saif in Uttar Pradesh in September. The letter also called for recognition of Sikhism as a distinct religion as not doing so prevented practitioners of the religion from accessing social services and employment and educational preferences available to other religious communities. Mr Prime Minister, we applaud India as a pluralistic society with a long-standing commitment to inclusion and tolerance, it stated. We also applaud your statements about religious freedom and communal harmony, including your promise in February 2014 that your government would 'ensure that there is complete freedom of faith... and not allow any religious group, belonging to the majority or minority, to incite hatred against others'. We urge you to turn these words into action by publicly condemning the ban on non-Hindu faiths in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, and the violent assaults and other forms of harassment against religious minorities throughout India, it stated, adding that steps should be taken against activities of groups such as the RSS. The letter was signed by Senators Roy Blunt, Amy Klobuchar, James Alankford, Al Franken, Tim Scott, Ben Sasse, John Boozman and Steve Daines and 26 members of the House of Representatives, including Joseph R. Pitts, Keith Ellison, Brad Wenstrup, Jim Costa, Trent Franks, Ted Poe and Mark Walker. In his statement on Monday describing the US lawmakers' letter as unfortunate, Swarup reiterated that the Indian government was fully committed to the constitutional principles which underpin the nation of 1.25 billion people as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. IANS Berlin: German Chancellor Angela Merkel has said the European Union cannot allow Greece, a country bailed out from its huge debt crisis, to plunge into "chaos" by shutting European borders to refugees. "Do you seriously believe that all the euro states that last year fought all the way to keep Greece in the eurozone and we were the strictest can one year later allow Greece to, in a way, plunge into chaos?" Merkel said in a TV interview yesterday. Merkel criticised the move by Austria and several Balkan countries to introduce border controls or cap daily migrant arrivals, creating a bottleneck in Greece as refugee boats continue to arrive from Turkey. "What has happened is exactly what we feared, that a country is now left alone with its problems, and we can't allow that," the German leader said in a lengthy interview on the migrant crisis with public broadcaster ARD. Merkel who had long sparred with Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras, demanding strict austerity in return for billions in EU-IMF bailouts said she was now in close contact with the leftist leader on the refugee influx. Anger has been building in Greece, the European gateway for hundreds of thousands of migrants, after Vienna introduced a daily cap on asylum applications and four Balkan countries, Macedonia, Serbia, Croatia and Slovenia, tightened entry conditions. Germany last year took in over one million asylum seekers, more than half from war-torn Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, leaving Merkel exposed to rising criticism at home as well as from many EU partners. Merkel insisted that the refugee influx be reduced through tightening EU external borders, involving Nato ships in a surveillance mission to stop refugee boats from Turkey, and an EU deal with Ankara. "But many don't believe in this way and are saying 'well, who knows whether that will work?' said the chancellor. Merkel said of eastern European countries that have tightened their border controls: "The problem is that they acted independently and unilaterally, but it's not good if a country is not involved." She added: "Greece was simply left on the outside. The border was secured from the Macedonian side, without anyone speaking with Greece about whether Greece wanted to secure its borders too." Merkel said Germany's responsibility was "not to solve the problem at the expense of another country but together with other countries. That's what we did in the euro crisis and that's what we have to do in the refugee crisis." AFP After showing up on Zauba and GFXBench, the Samsung Galaxy A9 Pro has surfaced on AnTuTu, revealing the specifications. This coincides with earlier rumors, but it doesnt confirm if the upcoming top-end A series smartphone will come with 6-inch screen like the A9 or a smaller 5.5-inch screen. It could be the same 6-inch screen since the import listing also shows a 6-inch screen. Samsung Galaxy A9 Pro rumored specifications 6-inch (19201080 pixels) Full HD Super AMOLED display with 2.5D curved glass Octa Core Snapdragon 652 (620) processor (Quad 1.8GHz ARM Cortex A72 + Quad 1.2GHz A53 CPUs) with Adreno 510 GPU 4GB RAM, 32GB Internal Storage, expandable memory upto 128GB via micro SD card Android 6.0 (Marshmallow) Dual SIM (nano + nano) 16MP rear camera, OIS, LED flash 8MP front camera Fingerprint sensor 4G LTE, Wi-Fi a/b/g/n, Bluetooth v 4.1, ANT+, NFC 4000mAh battery, Fast Charging The Samsung Galaxy A9 Pro is expected to come in White, Gold and Pink colors, similar to the Galaxy A9. The official announcement is expected in coming weeks. Muscle Food, a UK site selling sports nutrition products, has come up with the all-new "Barbell Brew". The beer claims to be rich in proteins and have fewer calories than lean beers. This can be the most surprising sweet news for the gym goers who will be missing the beer to lose their weight. It will be as easy as sliding the beer into your tummy as a muscle milk or that can of pure protein shake that you use while working out. The new drink is full of energy with fewer calories and they are also free from gluten. The Barbell Brew, the exclusive beer of the UK site has 3.6 percent alcohol and is a wheat beer. The company advertises it on the website as, "has notes of tropical fruits and light caramel on the nose... assertive, resinous hops, biscuit malt flavor... and an aggressive, dry and satisfying choppy finish." This surprise beer is made from Muscle Food brewery. The drink, as they say, is full of proteins equal to that of three extra-large eggs or eight ounces of Greek Yogurt. To say the exact count as the maker mentions it, the beer contains 21.8 g of protein, according to Food & Wine. One standard serving of the beer (i.e.) 330ml of drink contains calories as low as 92 and carbohydrates as low as 5 g. It is very less than the less calorie Amstel Light beer which has a calorie of 95 calories. The price of this nutritious and delicious protein beer will be $22.24 in US dollars per pack which will have six packs each. It is already been in the campaign by the health experts that beers are good for health when it comes to proteins and vitamin B contents. It is also good for increased brain function, heart health, or kidney stone prevention. As one of the U.S. Navy's biggest shipbuilders, General Dynamics' (GD 2.17%) NASSCO subsidiary specializes in the production and repair of its auxiliary and support ships. But as the Navy reduces its ship count, General Dynamics has been turning more to the civilian world for shipbuilding contracts. Case in point: Last month, General Dynamics announced that NASSCO has delivered the liquefied natural gas-powered container ship Perla Del Caribe to its new owner, TOTE Maritime. According to data from S&P Global Market Intelligence, TOTE, which operates the Sea Star Line that services Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and the United States Virgin Islands, is itself a subsidiary of privately held Saltchuk Resources, based out of Seattle. The Perla is actually the second LNG-powered ship that NASSCO has built for TOTE. Like the first, her sister ship, the Isla Bella, is described as 764-foot Marlin Class vessel. They're the first LNG-powered containerships in the world, according to NASSCO General Manager Kevin Graney . That makes then not only environmentally cleaner than conventionally powered vessels -- but more fuel-efficient as well. Currently, with oil prices so low, that may not mean much to NASSCO customers. But oil prices go up as well as down, and with cargo vessels routinely in service for operating lives of up to 40 years, there will certainly come a day when fuel efficiency matters again, and when LNG may beat out oil as a fuel source regularly. When that happens, NASSCO's having staked out a leading position in LNG ship construction should prove beneficial to its business. Indeed, NASSCO President Fred Harris seems to be looking ahead to that day already. Calling the Marlin class "the next generation of U.S.-built ships," he implies that these deliveries to TOTE are only the beginning of General Dynamics' ambitions in the commercial ship-building world. Since 2005, NASSCO has built 12 commercial ships for various customers, including LNG-capable product tankers delivered to Kinder Morgan (KMI 2.34%) subsidiary American Petroleum Tankers. NASSCO says it has a total of seven commercial vessels of varying types on order from its customers, with deliveries due over the next two years. That's more than half as many ships as it delivered over the previous ten years. So while General Dynamics continues to hold pricing information on these vessels close to the vest, making it difficult to say for certain how big a part of General Dynamics' $8 billion-a-year maritime business they represent, one thing is certain: However big this business is for General Dynamics today -- it's growing. They're ba-ack! Four months ago, Raytheon (RTN) lost control over its $2.8 billion flying spy blimp -- the "JLENS" anti-missile aerostat -- when JLENS broke loose from its tether over Aberdeen Proving Grounds. Over the ensuing several hours, JLENS wandered the Eastern Seaboard, floating 160 miles (before finally being brought down in Pennsylvania through a combination of natural deflation and shotgun pellets), dragging a mile-and-a-quarter-long cable behind it, and causing an estimated $2 million in property damage as that cable caught on and brought down power lines along its route. Four months later, Raytheon is ready to give the blimp a second chance. Once more, with feeling As reported earlier this month on DefenseNews.com, the U.S. Army and North American Aerospace Defense Command have at long last wrapped up their investigation into what happened to JLENS (short for the Joint Land attack cruise missile defense Elevated Netted Sensor system). They concluded that "a combination of design, human error and procedural issues" all played a part in JLENS escaping its tether last October. Without going into too much detail, problems with JLENS's sensors caused a cascading series of malfunctions that all added up to JLENS being allowed to put too much pressure on its tether, snapping the inchwide cable that held the fire-control aerostat in place. The good news for JLENS -- and for Raytheon, and for its shareholders -- is that NORAD thinks these problems are fixable. What's more, NORAD considers JLENS a "unique cruise-missile defense capability" that "it is in the best interest of the nation to continue." And so, with the Obama Administration requesting $45.5 million in funding for the project in its fiscal 2017 budget request, JLENS will get another chance to prove itself to be both effective -- and safe. What it means to Raytheon -- and to taxpayers If that sounds like a risky move, it may still be worth it. Taxpayers have already sunk nearly $3 billion into JLENS, and if that investment can be salvaged, it really will provide the U.S. with a unique capability. The twin aerostats that make up a JLENS "orbit" use the same cables that (theoretically) hold them in place to transmit data from their radars through fiber optics, informing ground controllers of possible threats detected from their mile-up perch at light-speed. The detection capability is persistent, with aerostats able to remain aloft for 30 days at a time. And it's cheap. According to Raytheon, each two-aerostat orbit, provides the equivalent detection ability of an AWACS aerial early warning aircraft -- but at less than one-fifth the cost of an AWACS. It would be a shame to have to give that all up just because had one (admittedly very) bad day back in October. What's more, if the JLENS concept can be proven successful, there's every possibility it will bring more business to Raytheon. Initial plans for the project called for the construction and deployment of as many as 16 JLENS orbits, or 32 blimps, around the country if JLENS could be proven effective. At an estimated annual budget of $55 million or thereabouts, that works out to about $880 million in recurring revenue for Raytheon. Even for a company that does $23 billion in annual business, that's a significant sum. The upshot: JLENS's revival is good news for Raytheon. All they have to do now, is make sure they do it right this time. Hobby Lobby founder David Green, who just endorsed Marco Rubio for president, explained to the FOX Business Networks Neil Cavuto why he is not going to vote for Donald Trump. I dont want a loose cannon to take care of the problems we have, Green said. Were all angry at where weve been. But, to do something because we think someones made a billion dollarsweve made billions of dollars, but that doesnt make us have the ability to run this country the last thing we need in this country [right] now is an individual that leads us by a scorched earth attitude and no matter what it takes to get ahead. Green adamantly stated he does not want to see a bully in the White House. More on this... Hobby Lobby founder: Under no circumstances could I vote for Trump When you make fun of people that are less than perfect, when you talk about peoples ears, when you talk about their facethis is exactly what we do not need as a leader because people follow leaders. He added: We dont want a head of the country that leads us to act in a way that we shouldnt act. Whether we are Christian or not. whether we are people of faith or not, we dont want our children to emulate a person that would win the way hes winningcalling people names, everybodys stupidthat is not who we want our country to be and thats who were following. In the latest Republican debate, Marco Rubio went on the offensive against Donald Trump. Green said he thinks the Florida senator should stay away from such attacks. I think hes [Rubio] a decent person and before this race, he had proven [himself] as a decent person, the Hobby Lobby founder said. I think that its coming back in a way that is not him. It is not who Marco Rubio is. When asked which candidate he would vote for if the election came down to Trump vs. Clinton, Green said he doesnt think he could vote. I dont believe I could vote. I would have to stand aside." In 2014, Hobby Lobby, along with two other companies, argued before the Supreme Court that the company should not have to provide employees contraception due to their religious beliefs. The High Court ruled in favor of Hobby Lobby. Green also shared his thoughts on the current debate over the nomination to replace the late Justice Antonin Scalia. The President should do what he should do, and that is he should appoint someone, he said. The Congress should then do what they should do and either decide or not decide whether that person should become our Supreme Court justice. I think they should both do what they have been elected to do and they should listen to whoever it is, but then they also should make sure that we have a justice that would follow our Constitution and keep us with our freedoms. Today's stock market is arguably riskier than it has been at any point since the Great Recession. The S&P 500 has lost more than 5% in the fourth quarter as concerns about rising interest rates, tensions with China, and an aging bull market have combined to cool off stocks. Meanwhile, there are signs that the housing and auto markets are slowing, which are often leading indicators of a recession. The long-reliable FAANG group of tech stocks is flopping, a sign that investors would be mindful to look to a safer corner of the market, and one stock that offers a unique combination of growth, value, income, and reliable profits is Target (NYSE: TGT). The brick-and-mortar retailer may look like an odd suggestion with the rising threat of e-commerce and Amazon, but Target has made a number of smart moves over the last year that make it well-positioned for future growth. It's also cheap at a P/E of just 13.5 after falling 16% over the last month, and it offers a dividend yield of 3.8%, counting itself among the ranks of the S&P 500 Dividend Aristocrats. Let's take a closer look at why Target looks like a smart buy today. Strong sales growth Target's top line is growing faster than it has in more than a decade. The "cheap chic" chain posted 6.5% comparable sales growth in the second quarter, its fastest clip since 2005, and followed that up with a jump of 5.1% in the third quarter. The growth was broad-based as the company saw surges in both in-store traffic as well as digital sales, which rose 49% in the third quarter. At a time when other big-box chains are closing stores or even going bankrupt, Target's roaring comparable sales growth signals that the company is executing as effectively as it has in recent memory, both with its digital initiatives and with its in-store renovations and improvements. The company also sees that momentum carrying into the key holiday quarter, calling for 5% comparable sales growth in the fourth quarter, tracking with its full-year target. Smart strategic moves Over the last year, Target has made a number of clever moves that have significantly improved the company's position. About a year ago, it acquired Shipt, the Instacart competitor, to help it enable same-day shipping from its network of more than 2,000 stores. To date, Target has Shipt providing same-day delivery from more than 1,400 stores. It's also opening new, small-footprint stores in cities and college towns to tap an underserved market that is looking for convenience, a wide selection, and competitive prices, a need that Target is well-suited to meet. It's also sprucing up its current store base, remodeling 300 stores this year, which have delivered incremental comparable sales of 2% to 4%. The company expects to remodel another 600 over the next two years. Finally, the retailer is doubling down on the holiday season with a revamped toy department and a wider selection of toys in order to capitalize on the Toys R Us bankruptcy. To capture sales during the peak season, Target is also offering free two-day shipping on hundreds of thousands of items with no membership fee or order minimum, a unique proposition this holiday season. In addition, the company has a number of other convenient pickup and delivery options to make online shopping easier than ever before. Benefiting from rival weaknesses In addition to the Toys R Us bankruptcy, Target also looks poised to benefit from the challenges that a number of other retailers are facing -- the company's middle-class positioning, broad selection across multiple categories, and nationwide footprint means it competes with a wide range of retailers. That also makes it a convenient substitute for consumers as struggling rivals close up shop. Target is likely to grab share from companies like Sears, which continues to unravel following its October bankruptcy, Bon-Ton, the department-store chain that declared bankruptcy earlier this year, and struggling retailers like J.C. Penney and Bed, Bath & Beyond, which are both giving up market share. Brick-and-mortar retail is undergoing a bifurcation as stronger chains like Target are poised to continue thrive while a slew of other chains recede into irrelevance. As that plays out, Target looks set to be a winner. The next recession could drown a whole sea of struggling retailers, which would set up Target to grab market share and grow sales as the economy recovers. One big question Beyond the arguments above, there is one key concern that investors have. Despite the strong sales growth this year, Target's operating income has actually fallen through the first three quarters of the year, and a 90 basis-point drop in gross margin was a key reason for the sell-off following its third-quarter earnings report. Management has pointed to higher digital fulfillment costs as the main reason for the gross margin drop, but CEO Brian Cornell addressed the operating margin concerns, saying on the recent earnings call, "We believe that this year will establish a sustainable benchmark for our operating margin rate over the longer term, as we achieve a balancing point between the rate pressures and opportunities of operating an omnichannel retail business." Indeed, capital expenditures have been elevated this year, up 40% as the company makes investments in Shipt, online pickup capabilities, and store remodels. As that cost plateaus, operating margin is likely to stabilize. Assuming operating margin stops contracting and the company begins to show operating profit growth, the stock should respond accordingly, as it's clear Target's customers approve of its recent initiatives. With the stock down 20% over the last two months, shares could gain almost 25% simply be recouping those losses, which could easily happen with a strong holiday quarter. Beyond that, Target looks well-positioned for further growth, and its near-4% dividend yield should keep investors content to be patient if need be. In today's volatile market, Target looks like a great stock to buy now. 10 stocks we like better than TargetWhen investing geniuses David and Tom Gardner have a stock tip, it can pay to listen. After all, the newsletter they have run for over a decade, Motley Fool Stock Advisor, has quadrupled the market.* David and Tom just revealed what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy right now... and Target wasn't one of them! That's right -- they think these 10 stocks are even better buys. Click here to learn about these picks! *Stock Advisor returns as of November 14, 2018 John Mackey, CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Jeremy Bowman owns shares of Amazon and J.C. Penney. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Amazon. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Here today, gone tomorrow. McDonald's is doing away with its value offer promotion less than two months after introducing it, and bringing out a new higher priced deal. Image source: McDonald's. Well, that was quick. McDonald's is reportedly scrapping the McPick 2 for $2 menu it introduced last month and is replacing it with a pricier $5 menu, but also giving customers a greater range of options to choose from including Big Macs, Quarter Pounders, and Filet-o-Fish sandwiches. McDonald's is walking a fine line here. CEO Steve Easterbrook promised to pay more attention to the low-cost end of its menu, noting 25% of its customer base comes to the chain for its value menu offerings, and giving customers more choices that include some of their favorite items should be successful. But raising the price of what he said only a month ago was both popular and a "compelling price point," risks alienating those very customers. The McPick 2 for $2 menu was a work in progress from the beginning, and was never intended to be the final replacement for McDonald's dollar menu, but it was only launched last month. During the earnings conference call a couple weeks ago Easterbrook had indicated change would come, but that it would be later in the year, so when news outlets suddenly spotted new promotions apparently scrapping the discount menu, it caught many by surprise. Compared to the bundled offers from Wendy's and Burger King, McDonald's McPick menu had the benefit of being the lowest cost of the three and the only one that offered customers a choice what they got. Wendy's 4 for $4 menu gave customers a set package of a junior bacon cheeseburger, four-piece chicken nuggets, small fries, and a small drink. Restaurant Brands International also gave customers of its Burger King chain a preset package that included similar items, but added a bonus chocolate chip cookie that set its offer apart and made its five items for $4 seem a better deal. The new face of the McDonald's value meal might not be around for very long either as the chain is indicating it's a limited time offer. Image source: McDonald's Minnesota. Yet McDonald's took a different route altogether. For just $2, customers could choose any two of the following: McChicken sandwich, McDouble cheeseburger, three-piece mozzarella sticks, small fries. That indeed made it compelling, as Easterbrook said, and separated it from what its rivals were doing, but changing the program so soon after introducing it poses additional risks for the restaurant operator. Subway was socked when it abandoned its long-standing $5 footlong sandwich promotion, raising the cost to $6. McDonald's suffered a backlash when it changed its Dollar Menu to a Dollar Menu & More that effectively raised the price on the value end. It also loses momentum in stealing customers from other rivals as Dunkin Brands said it was the bundled meal programs that hurt its financial performance last quarter (and not McDonald's all-day breakfast promotion). The initial reaction to the change by observers doesn't seem overly positive, but that negative outlook appears to be misplaced. McDonald's is giving customers more value for their money (albeit at a slightly higher cost), but it's also mollifying its franchisees somewhat who chafe at these discount deals. They've been a restive bunch who've grumbled about many of McDonald's changes, many of which they're forced to pay. They've long complained about the overly expansive menu that has too many items, and they're not enamored of the discount options it's introduced. No doubt they appreciate the greater traffic they're supposed to drive to their restaurants, but value meals make them little profit, and at a time when many are still hurting from falling sales deep discounts like the McPick 2 for $2 rubbed them the wrong way. The McPick 2 for $5 -- yes, the McPick name seems to be staying, for good or ill -- ought to satisfy its customers' desire for even greater selection while perhaps offering a better premium for franchisees. McDonald's still has a long way to go before it can be seen as having turned the corner on a three-year skein that caused sales to crumble, and though it's put together two consecutive quarters of comparable sales growth it's by no means proved that's sustainable. The new value menu won't change that view either, but it seems more likely to succeed than fail and continues to offer a better value proposition against the rival burger chains. The article Is McDonald's Corp's McPick 2 Menu Already a Failure? originally appeared on Fool.com. Rich Duprey has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. The numbers aren't adding up forWal-Mart Stores. After spending the better part of 2015 making key investments that were supposed to galvanize growth, the company has seen little progress. It spent $1.2 billion on higher wages and training last year, and will spend another $1.5 billion this year,while it also injected $900 million into its e-commerce platform last year, and projects it will spend $1.1 billion this year. E-commerce growth has not lived up to expectations. Image source: Wal-Mart. Those two projects were expected to boost performance and solve two of Wal-Mart's most pressing problems by (1) sprucing up its stores to avoid items being out of stock and cut down on long lines, thus better satisfying customers, and (2) enhancing its e-commerce platform by leveraging its massive store footprint to better compete with Amazon.com That plan didn't pan out, as Wal-Mart's fourth-quarter earnings report was full of bad news. U.S. comparable sales grew at a paltry 0.6%, its slowest growth rate in five quarters while e-commerce sales grew just 8%, its slowest rate in several quarters. The company also lowered its sales forecast for the second time in four months. It now sees flat revenue growth for the current year, following currency-adjusted growth of just 2.2% last quarter. While Wal-Mart touted improvements in its turnaround, including increasing customer satisfaction scores, expansion of its e-commerce platform,and a 7% comparable-sales increase at its Neighborhood Market stores, investors are rightly disappointed with the lack of progress. Taking a look at the bigger picture shows why Wal-Mart's challenges may be insurmountable. Math problemsE-commerce sales have grown steadily since the dawn of the Internet. Since the end of the Great Recession, online sales have grown about 15% each year, consistently taking share from brick-and-mortar retailers. In 2015, 7.3% of total retail sales went to e-commerce, but the online channel captured two-thirds of the growth, or $43.5 billion out of $65 billion. With the company growing e-commerce sales by just 8% in the latest quarter, it's losing share in the fast-growing online channel, and its massive size means it would have to capture a disproportionate percentage of brick-and-mortar sales to put up a significant growth rate. In 2015, Wal-Mart's U.S. business brought in $355 billion in revenue.Even if the company captured all of the brick-and-mortar sales growth in the country last year, it would have only grown its domestic top line by 6%. Competitive threatsWal-Mart has made strides in e-commerce, tallying up $14 billion in sales last year,but it's still far behind Amazon and its growth has slowed significantly, down from 22% a year ago. The e-commerce juggernaut, meanwhile, posted $99 billion in retail sales last year, growing the category 26% in North America over the holiday quarter. As Amazon converts more shoppers to its Prime loyalty program, adding more warehouses, and making other investments to speed up delivery, its advantage is likely to grow. On the brick-and-mortar front, Wal-Mart continues to lose ground toCostco Wholesale, among others. Its warehouse brand, Sam's Club, saw comparable sales rise just 0.4% last year, while Costco's comps grew 7% in fiscal 2015, grabbing share from both Sam's Club and Wal-Mart. Costco's and Amazon's sales have consistently grown by eroding Wal-Mart's competitive advantage -- its low-price leadership and wide selection. As both continue to expand, the pressure on Wal-Mart will only increase. The world's largest retailer is projecting just a 0.5% increase in U.S. comparable sales and has already scaled back its unit growth projections for this year, targeting just 142-165 new stores, down from 375 new stores two years ago. Its international division also continues to struggle, as the company has recently pulled out of markets in Brazil, and has hit several roadblocks in China. With weak comps in the forecast, slower store growth, and decelerating e-commerce growth, Wal-Mart will struggle to match the current 3%-4% growth of the greater retail industry. As its rivals extend their advantages, Wal-Mart may be consigned to low-single-digit growth, at best. The article Why Wal-Mart Can't Grow Anymore originally appeared on Fool.com. Jeremy Bowman has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Amazon.com and Costco Wholesale. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Image source: Disney. Disneyrewrote the way it sells one-day tickets to Disney World -- and Disneyland -- on Sunday. Naturally the headlines have centered around the shift to variable demand-based pricing, a move that will result in tickets to Magic Kingdom setting park guests buying single-day admissions back by as much as 18% as they were paying before. It's a big move, but what does it mean for Disney shareholders? Let's take a look at some of the moving parts behind this move that could shape the stock's direction. 1. Disney planted this seed in OctoberThe world's largest operator of theme parks dramatically hiked prices for its annual passes in early October, pushing through double-digit percentage increases in introducing new flavors of its plans that offer year-round access to its gated attractions. Instead of having a single pass that includes unlimited access to Disney World's four parks -- or a premium plan that includes the water parks -- Disney introduced a few more options for locals based on the number of blackout dates that customers were willing to accept. Florida residents could choose the Silver or Gold pass if they wanted a cheaper option that would eliminate peak holiday periods, or in the case of the Silver pass also the summer travel season altogether. There's even a pass available now that is good only on off-season weekdays. It was October's move that left many watchers of the company -- including the mouse ear-donning chap writing this piece -- predicting that demand pricing would inevitably be introducedin February. 2. Single-day tickets are not the admission media of choice at Disney WorldIt's easy for investors to begin drooling at the prospects of summer and holiday travelers paying 18% more this year than in 2015 to get into one of the Florida resort's four theme parks, but that's just not the way that things are. On any given day, most guests are on annual passes and, more often than not, multiday passes where they are paying far less on a per-day basis. As strange as it may seem, making its one-day tickets more expensive pushes guests into spending more for multiday passes to get more bang for their buck. This helps fill up Disney's growing number of on-site hotel rooms, which now top more than 30,000. If it's more cost effective to spend several days at Disney World than a single day at the area's leading attractions, you're probably going to want to stay at the resort to take advantage of complimentary transportation and expanded hours that are available only to on-site resort guests. 3. More revenue typically results in expanding marginsTheme parks have high fixed costs. A new roller coaster isn't going to be priced based on how many people will come through the turnstiles. This is why Disney's operating income for its theme parks tends to grow faster than its top line. We saw this happen in fiscal 2015, when a 7% uptick in theme park revenue translated into a 14% pop in operating profit. It happened in fiscal 2014 with its 7% increase in revenue resulting in a 20% surge in operating income. The year before that it was a 9% move up in segment revenue working out to a 17% gain on its bottom line. We've gone from an operating profit margin of 14.7% for Disney's theme parks segment in fiscal 2012 to 17.6% in fiscal 2015. If folks put up with Sunday's price hikes -- and they have since Disney's been doing this for 28 years in a row -- it's going to be a big boost for its bottom line. The article 3 Things to Know About Disney World's 18% Price Hike originally appeared on Fool.com. Rick Munarriz owns shares of Walt Disney. The Motley Fool owns shares of and recommends Walt Disney. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Johnson Controls has been automating building systems for more than 130 years. Source: Johnson Controls AlthoughJohnson Controls has most recently gained infamy as a villain fleeing the U.S. in a corporate inversion with Tyco International, the company remains an industry leader in using the Internet of Things to provide building automation systems (BAS). Though it's a top dog in the field, there are plenty of peers nipping at its heels. Let's take a look at three of these competitors to see how worried the back of Johnson Controls' feet should be. The roundupWith its hands in numerous industries -- everything from oil and gas to aerospace to vacuum bags -- Honeywell International directly competes with Johnson Controls and its Metasys system in the building automation field by way of its Enterprise Buildings Integrator -- a comprehensive software suite of building management solutions, which addresses HVAC, fire protection, security, and energy efficiency. The company is a formidable competitor. In keeping pace with Johnson Controls, which is fortifying its Metasys solution by merging with Tyco, Honeywell recently announced its intent to acquire privately held Xtralis, a leader in fire detection and security solutions, for $480 million.From smoke detectors to jet engines, United Technologies , like Honeywell, is an industrials giant dealing in a wide variety of businesses. The company operates several industry-leading HVAC, fire security, and safety solutions brands through which it competes with Johnson Controls -- with brands such as Carrier, Kidde, and Chubbs. WebCTRL can increase a building's ENERGY STAR rating and help to achieve LEED certification. Source: United Technologies. And in terms of building automation, United Technologies' provides the WebCTRL system. Like Metasys, WebCTRL can be used in numerous settings. Starwood's W Hotel in Times Square, for example, employed the system in 2015 to achieve an 18.9% reduction in energy use compared with 2014; Princeton University used WebCTRL in one of its research center buildings to reduce energy usage by 33%. Through its Trane brand, Ingersoll-Rand is another challenger to Johnson Controls. The company's Tracer building automation system is also suited for a variety of building applications. In particular, the company has collaborated with General Electric to develop Tracer XT, a building automation system designed specifically for data-center applications.The measure upWith market caps hovering around $80 billion, Honeywell and United Technologies far outweigh that of Johnson Controls' approximate $23 billion. These two companies might attract conservative investors since they aren't as tightly levered to success with building automation, though their exposure is still substantial enough that success would have a material impact. For the $56.5 billion in net sales that United Technologies reported in 2015, its climate, controls, and security segment (CCS) contributed $16.7 billion; Honeywell's automation and control solutions (ACS) segment contributed $14.1 billion to the company's $38.6 billion in revenue for the same period. Conservative investors may also be drawn to Honeywell and United Technologies' higher margins -- margins that exist despite the possible inferior performance of building automation segments. For example, of Honeywell's three operating segments, ACS had the lowest segment margin -- 16.4% -- in 2015; nonetheless, the other two segments buoyed the overall segment margin to 18.8%. United Technologies, on the other hand, reported adjusted segment operating profit margin of 17.5% for its climate, controls, and security segment in 2015; this was the second best of four operating segments and helped to bring the company's adjusted segment operating profit margin up to 16.7% for the year. Lastly, conservative investors may also appreciate Honeywell and United Technologies' superior ability -- lasting more than five years -- to churn profits out of shareholders' money; each company has a return on equity over 25% -- Johnson Controls equals just over 14%.Smaller than Johnson Controls, with a market cap under $14 billion, Ingersoll-Rand may pique the interest of investors looking for a more direct approach to the BAS market. Whereas Honeywell's ACS segment contributed 36.5% to the company's revenue in 2015, and United Technologies' CCS segment contributed 29.6%, Ingersoll-Rand's climate segment accounted for 77% during 2015. Though not as efficient as Honeywell and United Technologies, Ingersoll-Rand's margins -- both operating and profit -- consistently surpass those of Johnson Controls. And the difference may become even more pronounced in the coming year; management forecasts the climate segment's adjusted operating margin to fall between 13.25% and 13.75% for FY 2016. Though Ingersoll-Rand hasn't been as consistent as Honeywell and United Technologies at exceeding Johnson Controls' return on equityover the past five years,it has demonstrated better growth. Ingersoll-Rand grew its return on equity 52.67% over the past five years, yet Johnson Controls only grew it 1.29%. JCI Operating Margin (TTM) data by YCharts Booking $923 million in segment income from net sales of $1.05 billion,Johnson Controls only reported a segment profit margin of 8.8% for its building efficiency segment in FY 2015. This fell between the margins of its two other segments: Automotive experience reported 5.9%, and power solutions reported 17.5%. Unlike Honeywell and United Technologies, Johnson Controls is more reliant on its BAS segment to maintain profitability -- something which may not be desirable for risk-averse investors.The bottom line on the bottom lineMargins and return on equity are important metrics to consider when comparing peers, but it's all for naught if there's no look at the actual earnings. Here again, Johnson Controls lags its peers. JCI EPS Diluted (TTM) data by YCharts Honeywell, the clear winner, has excelled at growing profits over the past five years, while United Technologies and Ingersoll-Rand have also successfully grown earnings. That's not to say that Johnson Controls hasn't reported earnings growth -- it has -- but its peers have outpaced it by far, providing even more reason for conservative investors to shy away from it.The takeawayAccording to Navigant Research, there's substantial opportunity in the building automation market: Cumulative worldwide revenue for commercial BAS is expected to surpass $713 billion from 2015-2023. Surely, there will be plenty of winners, and Johnson Controls may be one of them. However, its peers certainly deserve close examination as well. Depending on one's stomach for risk, its competitors may, in fact, be the better options for investment. The article How Does Johnson Controls Compare to Its Building Automation Peers? originally appeared on Fool.com. Scott Levine has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool owns shares of General Electric Company and Johnson Controls,. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Shares ofRestoration Hardware hit the deck last week after the company released a disastrous preliminary earnings report. The upscale furniture retailer said that earnings would come in at just $0.99 per share, down from $1.02 a year ago and well below the analyst consensus of $1.35. The stock finished down 26% as quarterly revenue of $647 million was also badly off estimates of $708 million. CEO Gary Friedman cited three factors for the slowdown. First, he noted that orders had increased 21% in the quarter but revenue was only up 11%, and blamed shipping delays and vendors struggling to ramp up production for the new RH Modern line for the disparity. Second, he blamed low oil prices and a strong dollar for squeezing sales in Canada, Texas, and Miami, which he said shaved 4% off the company's top line, and lastly, that promotional sales were not a successful as usual. Friedman believed the results were affected by volatility in the stock market and changing market conditions that scared off the high-end consumer."Historically, our business has a correlation to large movements in stock prices as we believe asset valuations influence our customers' buying patterns," he said in the release. Image source: Restoration Hardware. A handful of analyst downgrades followed the report as Restoration stock had already been in trouble, losing half of its value since the beginning of November on concerns about slowing sales growth and a recession. Investors were unimpressed with the prior third-quarter report as revenue also came in short of estimates. The stock had soared through its first years on the market, tripling in value from its 2012, but it just gave back those gains in a matter of months. Is this a broken a company, or can Restoration Hardware bounce back from this sudden challenge? The reverse wealth effectAnalysts have also blamed the stock's recent slide on the reverse wealth effect, or the reluctance of wealthy shoppers to spend as their stock portfolios lose value. Restoration Hardware's closest publicly traded rival is probablyWilliams-Sonoma, which own its namesake chain of home furnishing stores as well as Pottery Barn and West Elm. As you can see from the chart below, Williams-Sonoma shares have also fallen lately, though not as sharply as Restoration Hardware's. RH data by YCharts. Williams-Sonoma hasn't reported fourth-quarter earnings yet, but its third-quarter guidance was weak, indicating that the trends Friedman cited are real and not just a challenge for Restoration Hardware. There are other signs that Restoration Hardware's rapacious growth is slowing dramatically as well. For full-year 2015, comparable brand revenue grew by 11%, down from 20% the year before.For the four years to 2014, its lowest rate was 26%. While 11% comparable growth would normally be impressive for the company, Restoration Hardware has been transitioning from a mall-based retailer to opening lavish showrooms as its store count has gone down from 91 to 67 between 2010 and 2014, even as its selling space has more than doubled. That strategy has helped drive consistent sales and profit growth, and the company last year launched brand extensions including RH Modern and RH Teen, which should help boost growth. According to the recent report, the initial response to RH Modern has been "outstanding,"and the company plans to improve its supply chain and expand the product selection this year. Friedman has shown an instinct with the brand before, rescuing it from near-death during the recession by rebranding it and making it more upscale. While the stock may take a breather this year with the market in flux, it's too early to call it broken. With RH Modern just rolling out and the company opening more trademark showrooms, Restoration Hardware is aggressively positioning itself for the future. The stock should regain its footing when the market calms down. The article Is Restoration Hardware a Broken Stock? originally appeared on Fool.com. Jeremy Bowman has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends Restoration Hardware and Williams-Sonoma. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Source: PG&E Corporation. As market mayhem continues, income investors are on the hunt for safe and reliable stocks. Historically, utilities such as PG&E Corporation have been some of the most stalwart stocks out there. But they can also be complicated to understand, and their future is arguably more complicated than it's ever been before. To better understand PG&E stock's situation, let's take a closer look at how it compares with Exelon Corporation and Duke Energy Corporation in three charts. 1. Total return price PCG Total Return Price data by YCharts First and foremost, examining stock prices alone puts PG&E stock at a disadvantage. It and other utilities dole out sizable dividends (more on this later), so examining each stock's total return price is the only way to accurately determine what value investors are receiving. Over the past five years, PG&E stock's total return price has managed to increase 50%. That's well above Exelon's flatline, but falls behind both Duke Energy and the S&P 500 Total Return (INDEX:^SPTXR). Regardless of which stock has currently come out ahead, this chart should serve as a warning to investors: utilities are not the dependable stocks they used to be, and shareholders could find themselves burned if they expect steady returns. 2. Dividends PCG Dividend data by YCharts So with erratic stock prices, are PG&E, Duke Energy, and Exelon still delivering dividends? It depends. For Exelon, its up-and-down (and ultimately down) distributions have left income investors will smaller absolute dividends than they enjoyed five years ago. PG&E stock has kept its own distribution steady, while Duke Energy has continued on its "dividend staircase" course, inching distributions every year. But for those looking to invest down, dividend growth doesn't tell you where current yields stand. Here, it's PG&E stock that brings up the rear with a 3.2% yield, surpassed by both Exelon (3.9%) and Duke Energy (4.4%). 3. Keeping it clean Source: PG&E Corporation Let's take a break from stock analysis to take a look at the actual company that is PG&E. In a word, PG&E is clean. One of the major worries for many utilities is how new regulation will affect their energy portfolios. In particular, the federal Clean Power Plan and state-level renewable energy regulations have added significantly more risk to some company's upside. For a company like Exelon Corporation that relies on nuclear power in Illinois for one-third of its portfolio, any negative nuclear regulation or outsized support for other energies would be disastrous. Coal has been Duke Energy's biggest worry, and the utility has already retired nearly 5,000 MW worth and has potential plans to shutter an additional 4,000 MW. As the preceding chart indicates, PG&E Corporation has already made major advances toward clean energy. More than half of its portfolio is greenhouse gas free, and one-quarter of its energy portfolio already meets renewable-energy standards. While other utilities will have to make major retirements and additions to appease state and federal regulators, PG&E is simply ahead of the green game. Buy PG&E?Charts such as the ones here are an excellent way to begin forming an investment thesis. For investors looking for a relatively safe and forward-thinking utility, these charts indicate PG&E is a solid match. The utility might not have as much upside as others, but it's relatively low-risk offering and steady dividend should mean a lot to income investors. The article PG&E's Stock in 3 Charts originally appeared on Fool.com. Justin Loiseau has no position in any stocks mentioned, but he does use electricity. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Image source: South Jersey Industries. The utility industry is full of relatively small players, and South Jersey Industries is a typical utility focusing on a relatively concentrated service area. Coming into Monday's fourth-quarter financial report, South Jersey investors were looking to see fairly substantial increases in its earnings, but the utility's actual results fell somewhat short of what investors had hoped for. Nevertheless, South Jersey thinks that it can bounce back and produce even more income in 2016. Let's look more closely at how South Jersey Industries did to finish 2015 and what you should expect in the year ahead. South Jersey Industries deals with "significant challenges" South Jersey Industries fourth-quarter results showed the obstacles that the utility has had to overcome recently. Operating revenue fell 8% to $257.8 million, falling far short of the $288 million consensus forecast among investors. Yet net income climbed 16% to $50.9 million, and that produced earnings of $0.73 per share. However, using the company's favored Economic Earnings metric, earnings of $0.62 per share were $0.05 shy of what investors had expected from the utility. Taking a closer look at South Jersey's fundamentals, the regulated utility division saw net income fall slightly, posting a 7.5% drop to $22.2 million for the quarter. The company said that higher reserves for uncollectible receivables and higher post-retirement benefit costs weighed on the division's results. However, customer counts grew by about 6,250 to more than 373,000, and conversion activity from heating oil to natural gas helped bolster the business. A fairly warm early winter likely weighed on gas demand as well, but South Jersey said that warm weather plus a rate reduction helped give residential customers some much-needed financial relief without costing the utility in terms of earnings. South Jersey's non-utility businesses saw some interesting patterns. The SJ Energy Group saw economic earnings more than double from year-ago levels, and South Jersey said that efforts to improve efficiency within its pipeline system and to make better deals with producers in the Marcellus shale play contributed to its positive impact. SJ Energy Services overcame the negative impact of its Atlantic City facilities to triple its economic earnings for the quarter. Higher investment tax credits from the solar area helped lead the division forward, even though the CHP/Thermal and Landfill segments posted small economic losses for the quarter. CEO Michael Renna put the results in context. "Strong operating performance across the company was mitigated by $15.7 million of write-offs and costs associated with our energy facility at the former Revel property," Renna said. He also noted that customers who were unable to pay for high heating costs last winter led to uncollectible losses that weighed on results. Can South Jersey Industries move forward?Even with the challenges it has faced, South Jersey seems confident. "With a focus on high quality earnings, a strong balance sheet, and minimizing risk," the CEO said, "our core businesses remain strong and are poised to deliver meaningful near-term growth." Yet the mix of where South Jersey expects to get its earnings will likely change this year. The shift toward the regulated side of the business that many other utilities have followed appears to be in the cards at South Jersey as well, and the utility sees the share of profits from regulated operations rising from 67% in 2015 to between 70% and 74% this year. The SJ Energy Group will also rise from 2015 levels, contributing 20% to 25%. That will leave only 5% to 10% for SJ Energy Services, and South Jersey believes that solar's contribution in particular will drop considerably in 2016. Nevertheless, the utility sees all three units working well together to add up to solid profits. South Jersey investors didn't seem satisfied with the news, bidding the shares down 2% at midday following the announcement. Nevertheless, with a dividend yield of more than 4% and reliable results from its regulated business, South Jersey Industries looks like it has plenty of potential to keep delivering the performance that investors want to see in 2016 and beyond. The article South Jersey Industries Puts 2015 Behind It, Sees a Better 2016 originally appeared on Fool.com. Dan Caplinger has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends South Jersey Industries. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. IMAGE SOURCE: ENDO. What: Endo is down 17% at 12:50 p.m. ET after releasing fourth-quarter earnings this morning. So what: With that kind of drop, you'd expect that the drug company had missed guidance substantially, but that wasn't the case. Fourth-quarter revenue came in at just over $1 billion -- up 62% year over year thanks to the addition of acquisition of Par Pharmaceutical -- which put the full-year revenue toward the top end of the company's guidance. And the full-year adjusted diluted EPS of $4.66 exceeded the top end of its guidance. It's hard to see how the guidance for this year would be upsetting investors that much, either. Management said to expect revenues to be between $4.32 billion and $4.52 billion, up at least 32% year over year at the low end. And adjusted EPS are expected to be between $5.85 and $6.20, up 25% at the low end. The big issue seems to be the fact that Endo decided not to sell its ASTORA Women's Health division and instead plans to shut down the operation. It's not the lost revenue that's the issue -- the division will shut down by the end of March, so the aforementioned guidance takes that into account -- but the potential for future lawsuits from the mesh implants the company sold. Now what: The risks from lawsuits over the mesh implants were already known -- many have already been settled -- but Endo threw fuel on the fire when the company said it's shutting down ASTORA to avoid a bigger legal bill later on. Investors often overreact on legal issues, but who can blame them; if you're not a lawyer -- and maybe even if you are -- it can be really hard to gauge the potential risk for a large legal bill. At some point, Endo becomes a good buy even with the legal risk, but without knowing the potential risk, it's hard to set that price. The article Why Endo International plc Earned a Lower Price Today originally appeared on Fool.com. Brian Orelliand The Motley Fool have no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Image source: SunEdison. What: The drama surrounding SunEdison Inc. continued on Monday, and it now appears that the lawsuit between SunEdison and Appaloosa Management is headed to an expedited trial. Shares of SunEdison dropped as much as 16% on the news today, but its yieldcos, TerraForm Power Inc. and TerraForm Global Inc. , climbed 10% and 23%, respectively. So what:Appaloosa is a hedge fund run by billionaire David Tepper that is suing to block TerraForm Power from buying residential solar assets in connection with SunEdison's acquisition of Vivint Solar . Last week, that lawsuit took a step backward when a Delaware judge didn't allow an injunction to block the asset transfer. At the time, it appeared that the Vivint Solar acquisition would go through as planned, meaning TerraForm Power would end up buying the residential solar assets. But Appaloosa today said that it would accept the court's invitation for an expedited trial and the court gave warnings to SunEdison and even Goldman Sachs, an investment banker in the transaction. Details of the ruling came out in a press release today, and they don't look good for SunEdison. The court won't block the Vivint Solar acquisition, but it essentially said it could undo any transaction if Tepper wins its case and TerraForm Power is deemed to have inappropriately agreed to a transaction. The court said parties shouldn't "underestimat[e] this Court's power to grant relief in the future if it is warranted." It even said "Goldman [Sachs] ... should consider itself on notice of the possibility of relief being granted in [Appaloosa's] favor at a future date, if it is warranted." On top of those warnings, the court said that processes to approve the acquisition and advisors on the conflicts committee brought up major questions about the fairness process. Shares of TerraForm Global jumped today because if Tepper wins, it could strip some of the ties it has to SunEdison. You could make the same argument that SunEdison has used TerraForm Global as a piggy bank, and if the board of directors and transaction process is changed because of this lawsuit, that could be a win for TerraForm Global. Now what: It may have seemed like good news that an injunction wasn't granted, but the court doesn't appear to be leaning in SunEdison's favor in this lawsuit. In fact, Tepper's concerns about governance and the sale process appear to be well founded based on the comments above. Even after the apparent win last week, I wrote that SunEdison was far from being out of the woods. This is just a glimpse of the risks still associated with the company. If the Vivint Solar transaction has to be closed without TerraForm Power, it could lead to a liquidity crisis at SunEdison and brings up the possibility of bankruptcy. That's now back on the table, and given the risks to SunEdison, I wouldn't get anywhere near the stock. The article Why SunEdison Inc. Dropped and TerraForm Power and TerraForm Global Popped Today originally appeared on Fool.com. Travis Hoium has no position in any stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. Try any of our Foolish newsletter services free for 30 days. We Fools may not all hold the same opinions, but we all believe that considering a diverse range of insights makes us better investors. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. The political landscape is becoming a little clearer on the eve of Super Tuesday. March 1 is the single most critical day of the 2016 U.S. presidential primary race, with 11 states giving away delegates. GOP frontrunner Donald Trump and Democratic frontrunner Hillary Clinton are poised to win a majority of the primary states after strong showings in the southern and western primaries for their designated parties. Over the weekend, Clinton won the South Carolina primary with 73.5% support from Democratic primary voters compared to Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders 26%. In the GOP primary in South Carolina, Trump received 32.5% support from Republican primary voters compared to his rivals; Florida Senator Marco Rubio, who won 22.5% and Texas Senator Ted Cruz, who received 22.3%. According to data of poll averages from Real Clear Politics, Donald Trump holds the lead in 8 out of the 11 states included in Super Tuesday, and Clinton has 10 out of the 11. In a new CNN/ORC poll, Trump solidifies his biggest lead yet nationally with 49% support, more than 30 points ahead of Rubio with 16% and Cruz with 15%. According to the poll, 78% of Republican voters supporting Trump say they will definitely back him compared to 22% who say they could still change their minds. Those surveyed also agree the billionaire businessman would be the most effective leader to solve the countrys problems with 51% compared to Cruzs 17% and Rubios 13%. With the recent mudslinging between the top three GOP candidates, voters rank Trump as the most honest and trustworthy with 35%. Retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson is in second place with 14% and Senator Rubio comes in third with 13%. In the Democratic field, frontrunner Hillary Clinton leads Bernie Sanders 55% to 38%, according to the poll. A majority of Democratic voters say they would back Clinton or Sanders as the nominee, with only 15% who say they would not back either. When asked who would be most effective at solving the countrys problems as president, Clinton takes the lead over Sanders 63% to 33%. Voters overwhelmingly see Sanders as most honest and trustworthy with 59% compared to Clintons 36%. France has detected its first sexually transmitted case of Zika in a woman whose partner had traveled to Brazil, the epicenter of an outbreak of the virus, a senior health official said on Saturday. U.S. officials said earlier this week they were investigating 14 reports of the mosquito-borne disease that may have been transmitted through sex, including to several pregnant women. Francois Bourdillon, head of France's Institute for Public Health Surveillance (IVS), said the infected woman was the country's "first confirmed indigenous case of transmission". "This was a woman who had never traveled. Her partner had come from Brazil, so she was tested," Bourdillon said in an interview broadcast on BFM TV, adding that both patients were doing well. Marie-Claire Paty, who helps monitor diseases transmitted by insects for the IVS, told Reuters the current epidemic seemed to confirm sexual transmission, which was identified as a possibility during an earlier outbreak in Polynesia in 2013-14, when the virus was isolated in sperm. Brazil has declared a public health emergency over Zika, which may be linked to thousands of cases of the microcephaly birth defect that is marked by undersized heads and underdeveloped brains. There is no cure or treatment for the virus, which is usually transmitted by mosquitoes and has spread to more than 30 countries. A seven-month old infant is recovering after receiving a heart transplant shortly after suffering cardiac arrest. The boy was born with heterotaxy syndrome, a rare heart condition that caused his organs to develop on the opposite side of his body. Lincoln Seay, of Anchorage, Alaska, needed multiple surgeries to keep his heart vital, but the organ was starting to fail. Seay was flown to Seattle and waited 89 days before he was prepped for surgery 4 days after he experienced a cardiac arrest, Medical Daily reported. The day of his surgery, the boys heart stopped a second time, leading to cardiac arrest. Doctors put him on a heart bypass machine theyd intended to use during the transplant. "The remarkable thing was we were able to get him on machine quickly," Dr. Michael McMullen, surgical director of heart transplantation at Seattle Childrens and Seays personal surgeon, told ABC News. "It can take two hours and we did it in 12 minutes and doing CPR." Lincolns surgery had immediate results. "His color is incredibly different, its pink and vibrant and he woke up with so much energy," Lincoln's mother Mindy Seay told ABC News. "We joked, 'He woke up thinking he was the Hulk.'" The boys heart was given by an anonymous donor family and Seay expressed her gratitude in an open letter. "I will treasure that heart more than I've ever treasured any gift," she wrote in a blog post, according to The Seattle Times. "I will care for that gift to the very best of my ability and will be sure we always give reverence and respect to the child and the family from which it came." A Vermont college has banned the sale of energy drinks on campus because it said the drinks may lead to problematic behavior like high-risk sexual activity and alcohol abuse. Middlebury College, in Middlebury, Vermont, also said the beverages may affect students academic performance and lead to a culture of stress, Fox 2 Detroit reported. The Middlebury Campus, the colleges student newspaper, reported that the ban will take effect March 7. It applies to popular energy drinks like Red Bull, Rockstar and 5-Hour Energy. Although those products will no longer be sold on campus, students can still purchase them from retailers elsewhere. The colleges Community Council, comprised of faculty, staff and 12 students, approved the decision. The initiative follows a community council meeting in January, when Dining Software Intern Myles Kamisher-Koch said the sale of energy drinks on campus didnt align with Middlebury Colleges goal to nourish and nurture today and tomorrow by sustaining mind, body and earth, The Middlebury Campus reported. "The school has a responsibility to direct students to healthy choices through what they provide," Kamisher-Koch told the newspaper. While studies have linked energy drinks to various health risks, including a greater incidence of heart disease and there have been reports of heart attack among young people linked to consumption of the beverages its unclear whether energy drinks directly increase the chance of high-risk sex. The college has also linked the drinks with an increased risk of students using other intoxicating substances and driving drunk. Dan Detora, executive director of dining hall services at Middlebury College, likened the ban to that of cigarette sales on campus and told NBC News that he thinks it makes sense. But some students dont think targeting energy drinks should be priority. "There are more important things for them to address," fourth-year student Arnav Adhikari, an employee at the colleges Wilson Cafe, told NBC News. "And what do energy drinks have to do with sexual activity?" The nation's greatest living war heroes might have more in their pensions, thanks to the efforts of two Republican lawmakers. Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina and Rep. David Jolly of Florida have introduced identical bills that would raise the monthly pension payments for Medal of Honor recipients. Recipients of the award, the nation's highest military honor, already receive a pension of $1,000 a month. If Graham and Jolly have their way, the stipend would go to $3,000 a month for life -- a "small token," Graham says, of the nation's appreciation for their service. "It is impossible to put a price on the incredible brave actions displayed by these 78 living veterans ... " Florida Rep. David Jolly "Medal of Honor recipients are some of the true heroes in our midst. We honor their courage, bravery and sacrifice on behalf of a grateful nation," Graham said in a statement. "An increase in their stipend is a small token of our gratitude to them and their service." Jolly echoed Graham's sentiment, telling FoxNews.com Monday, "It is impossible to put a price on the incredible brave actions displayed by these 78 living veterans who went above and beyond the call of duty to defend our freedoms, and who today serve as ambassadors of valor, honor, service at events across the country, often at their own expense." "This increase is a small way to say thank you while also ensuring these heroes have the means to continue sharing their personal stories of patriotism, service and bravery with people around the country every year," Jolly said. There are currently 78 living Medal of Honor recipients. Since the award's creation in 1861, the president has bestowed more than 3,400 Medals of Honor. President Obama in June awarded the medal to two World War I Army soldiers who may have been denied the top military honor in the past due to discrimination. "It's never too late to say thank you," Obama said during the June 2 ceremony. Obama posthumously recognized Sgt. William Shemin, a Jewish soldier, and Pvt. Henry Johnson, an African-American serviceman, for their heroism rescuing comrades on the battlefields of France nearly a century ago. "They both risked their own lives to save the lives of others," the president said. Shemin's two daughters, Elsie and Ina, received the award on behalf of their father. New York National Guard Command Sgt. Maj. Louis Wilson accepted the medal on Johnson's behalf. Shemin repeatedly dodged gunfire to pull wounded comrades to safety during three days of bloody battle. And Pvt. Henry Johnson rescued a wounded comrade from his all-black regiment while single-handedly fighting off a surprise German attack. The award came after tireless efforts by advocates for the two men led Congress to pass an exemption from Medal of Honor rules specifying that heroic actions have to have taken place within five years to be considered. "It has taken a long time for Henry Johnson and William Shemin to receive the recognition they deserve and there are surely others whose heroism is still unacknowledged and uncelebrated," Obama said, adding that there is still work to do to ensure that the stories of all heroes are told. "The least we can do is to say we know who you are, we know what you did for us, we are forever grateful," he said. FoxNews.com's Cristina Corbin and the Associated Press contributed to this report. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz declared himself the anti-Trump candidate and said he was effectively tied for second in South Carolina. But aspects of the results were disappointing for the senator. Cruz failed to secure victory in a single county, but argued that he was "effectively tied" for second place as the votes are being counted. "In Iowa, they said it couldn't be done, and we won. In New Hampshire, they said a conservative, a Bible-believing Christian could not compete, and we defied expectations. And tonight despite millions and millions of dollars of false and nasty attacks. Despite the entirety of the political establishment coming together against us, South Carolina has given us another remarkable result," Cruz said on Saturday night. "If you are a conservative, this is where you belong because only one strong conservative is in a position to win this race. Second, we are the only campaign that has beaten, and can beat, Donald Trump. That's why Donald relentlessly attacks us and ignores all the other candidates." Donald Trump's victory was punctuated by success among an evangelical audience Cruz needed for a better showing. The primary results spotlight the upcoming delegate battle that will become crucial to Cruz's future success. Read more on WashingtonExaminer.com Sens. Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio have virtually the same message after a close finish in Saturday's South Carolina primary: I'm the most electable. The two senators, who completed for second place with Rubio coming out slightly ahead, each told CNN's Jake Tapper that they're best poised to beat Hillary Clinton or Bernie Sanders in the general election. Both said they are going to pick up more GOP primary voters as other candidates drop out. "We can't lose this election," Rubio said on the program "State of the Union," Sunday morning. "That's what's going to drive voters from here on out." Read more on WashingtonExaminer.com The Chris Christie endorsement underscored why Donald Trump has been driving his rivals crazybut not for the reason you may think. Trump once again exhibited his uncanny ability to control the news cycle and turn the political conversation to his advantage. The campaign had been sitting on the endorsement by the former New Jersey governor for some time and chose to roll it out half a day after a raucous CNN debate in which Trump got scratched up a bit. We were heading into a weekend in which the toe-to-toe combat with Marco Rubio, and to a lesser extent Ted Cruz, were going to be endlessly rehashed, including a couple of moments when the billionaire seemed off-balance. Instead, the Houston debate immediately became history as Trump and Christie gave the chattering classes something new and urgent to chatter about. The campaign picked that moment to change the narrative. It obviously helps that one of Trumps competitors in the presidential race is now using his bombastic style to help the New York-area pal hes known for many years. But the media care far more about endorsements than the voters do. But theres something much more profound going on here. As we approach Super Tuesday, the remnants of the Republican establishment--and the conservative media establishment--are engaged in a last-ditch effort to paint Trump as a dangerous demagogue who is a menace to the party and the country. Showcasing Christies backing opens the door for other parts of the establishment to come on board. Im told the Trump team has a half-dozen other statewide officials whose endorsements are ready to be made public. Maine Gov. Paul LePage has already followed suit. The stop-Trump movement is sounding a bit desperate. Ive read one conservative commentator after another a) saying he was wrong to dismiss Trump, and b) spinning strategies for other candidates to change the dynamic by teaming up or dropping out. What much of the conservative establishment, including its media wing, is trying to do is to paint Trump as beyond the pale, a fringe character who has somehow hijacked the Republican Party. With liberals attacking Trump for more obvious reasons, these conservatives are saying its an act of conscience to do everything possible to derail the guy. But if Christie, who won a landslide reelection in a blue state, is vouching for Trump, how bad can he be? Thats the value of his embrace, along with the fact that Christie has a lot of friends in the media. At the debate, Rubio proved himself to be a fighter. But he threw so many things at Trump so quickly that no one thing stuckand the charges and countercharges were drowned out by the yelling as Wolf Blitzer repeatedly let the thing spiral out of control. Even if Rubio picks up a few points, he is so far behind Trump in tomorrow's Super Tuesday contests that there is no state he expects to win. And if Trump piles up delegates in nearly a dozen states, Rubio does poorly and Cruz just wins his home state of Texas, last weeks debate will fade into history and the media will certify Trump as the all-but-certain nominee. The old Army adage, Hurry up and wait, applies once again to a decorated Green Beret who protected an Afghan boy from a child molester only to see his actions jeopardize his military career. A decision from the military on the fate of Sgt. First Class Charles Martland was due Tuesday, but now has been put off for a third time, until at least May 1. Martland, an 11-year Special Forces veteran, was stationed in Afghanistan in 2011 when he confronted a local police commander who allegedly had raped a 12-year-old boy. Charles did the right thing in Afghanistan by standing up to a child rapist and corrupt commander, and now its the Armys turn to do the right thing and reverse the decision to expel him from the service, Rep. Duncan Hunter, R-Calif., whose office has been assisting Martland, told FoxNews.com earlier this month. Permitting Charles to continue serving is in the best interest of the Army and the nation. Martland is not being discharged specifically for the incident, but having it on his record put him on the chopping block amid ongoing military cuts. A spokesman for Hunter noted that Vice President Biden appeared with Lady Gaga at the Academy Awards Sunday and spoke out about sexual abuse, urging the crowd to intervene in situations where consent cannot or has not been given. Supporters mounted an online petition backing Martland and, separately, 93 members of Congress have called for an investigation into the military's silence in the face of rampant sexual abuse of children in Afghanistan. The 2011 incident occurred at the remote outpost where Martland was stationed. The boy and his mother showed up at camp, and the boy showed the Green Berets where his hands had been tied. A medic took him to a back room for an examination with an interpreter, who told them the boy had been raped by a man identified as Afghani Police commander Abdul Rahman. Rahman allegedly beat the boy's mother for reporting the crime after learning that they went to the Army outpost. This led Martland and team leader Daniel Quinn to confront Rahman. According to reports of the incident, Rahman confessed to the crime and laughed it off. When Martland and Quinn roughed him up, Rahman reported them. One year ago, the Army conducted a "Qualitative Management Program" review board and called for Martland -- among thousands of other soldiers with prior disciplinary issues -- to be "involuntary discharged by Nov. 1, 2015. Martland appealed the decision and a final ruling on his discharge has been delayed until now. With the deadline rapidly approaching, other legal advocates have come to his aid, and even garnered more than 300,000 signatures in a petition calling for the decision to be overturned. Attorney General Loretta Lynch said Monday in an interview with Fox News that the Justice Department has no deadline for concluding the Hillary Clinton email investigation and that its being handled like any other review, even with the presidential election just months away. Lynch said on "Special Report with Bret Baier" that the investigation is being handled by the agencys career independent lawyers and that they will review the facts and the evidence and make a determination in due course. Lynch, nominated by President Obama to the attorney general post in 2014, also said the agency would look efficiently, fairly, thoroughly, without any kind of artificial deadline into whether Clinton broke any laws as secretary of state by using a private email server for official communications. In a wide-ranging interview, Lynch also said she thinks the federal government has a legal right to evidence on an Apple cellphone connected to the San Bernardino massacre, despite what the company says. This case is really about the government's need to access evidence as we do in every single case that may be found on an electronic device, Lynch said. She said the government went to court to prove to Apple that the company has the legal authority to access the evidence, then Apple chose not to do so. We went back to court and said, The law says that third parties can be required to help us gain access to evidence, and the court said, yes, Lynch said. That's where we are now. She also said the request is only to disable a feature to gain access to information, not about encryption. Lynch said she cannot predict whether the case will eventually reach the Supreme Court. Lynch was steadfast in declining to discuss specifics about the Clinton case -- including whether Clinton has been interviewed, if a grand jury had been convened, which departments within the agency are involved and whether she would ultimately decide whether the case will go forward. We handle it in the same way, and that's what I'd like to convey to the American people, she said. We owe it to the citizens and we owe it to anybody who may be involved in the matter. She also declined to comment on Clinton's then-chief of staff Cheryl Mills maintaining her top secret security clearance despite sending information that's now being classified to the Clinton Foundation. She also downplayed speculation that she is being considered to fill the Supreme Court vacancy, saying she hasnt had such conversations and is extremely happy with her job as attorney general. A weekend of insults exchanged among the three top candidates for the Republican presidential nomination was capped late Sunday when Florida Sen. Marco Rubio mocked front-runner Donald Trump before a heavily college-age crowd of around 3,000 at Roanoke College in Salem, Va. Rubio, who had described Trump in a "Fox News Sunday" interview as a "con artist", joked that Trump "has these small hands." "You know what they say about a man with small hands," Rubio said as the crowd laughed. "You can't trust them." Rubio also mocked Trump for his complexion, as he has before, accusing him of having a bad "spray tan." "Donald is not going to make America great," said Rubio, again drawing cheers and laughter. "He's going to make America orange!" Rubio and Texas Sen. Ted Cruz stepped up their personal and policy-based barrage against Trump Sunday, warning that the real estate mogul's nomination would be catastrophic for the Republican Party in November and beyond. Trump fired back, beginning his Fox News Sunday interview with an extended, uninterrupted attack on Rubio, calling him a political lightweight and little, adding that the first-term senator "couldn't get elected dogcatcher." Meanwhile, Cruz warned the "Trump train" could become "unstoppable" if he rolls to big victories in this week's Super Tuesday primaries. Cruz cast Trump as a carbon copy of Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton and suggested that not even Trump "knows what he would do" as president. The only campaign that has beaten Donald Trump is mine, said Cruz, arguing that 65 percent of GOP voters dont support Trump. The only way to beat Donald Trump is to stand behind our campaign on Super Tuesday." Cruz later became upset over continued questions by "Fox News Sunday" host Chris Wallace about the integrity of his campaign, following allegations about so-called dirty tricks that resulted in the forced resignation of spokesman Rick Tyler. Cruz accused Wallace of using Trump opposition research to frame questions and ended the interview in silence. In the wake of Trump's endorsement this week by retired Ku Klux Klan Grand wizard David Duke, Cruz also suggested on Fox News Sunday that a hate group supporting Trump was making recorded calls known as robo-calls -- telling potential voters not to pick a Cuban candidate. Cruz and Rubio are both of Cuban descent. In an appearance on CNN's "State of the Union", Trump was repeatedly asked about Duke's support, finally saying, "Just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke, OK? I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists. Did he endorse me, or what's going on? During a campaign event in northern Virginia, Rubio said he "refused" to repudiate Duke -- "a well known white supremacist racist" -- despite being asked repeatedly. "We cannot be a party that nominates someone who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," Rubio said. "Not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable." Trump reportedly knew Duke in 2000 and cited him, Pat Buchanan and Lenora Fulani when explaining why he stopped considering a presidential run under the Reform Party. "The Reform Party now includes a Klansman, Mr. Duke, a neo-Nazi, Mr. Buchanan, and a communist, Ms. Fulani. This is not company I wish to keep," Trump said, according to The New York Times. Meanwhile, Clinton, fresh off a convincing victory in Saturday's South Carolina primary, all-but-ignored Bernie Sanders, her rival for the nomination, and turned her attention to the Republican field. Starting her morning with stops at two Memphis churches, Clinton offered an implicit critique of Trump, asking worshippers to reject what she called "the demagoguery, the prejudice, the paranoia." Asked by actor Tony Goldwyn, who later campaigned with Clinton in Nashville, about her thoughts on Duke's support for Trump, Clinton described it, simply, as "pathetic." The Associated Press contributed to this report. Presidential candidates from both parties turned their rhetorical fire against Republican front-runner Donald Trump Sunday, with his GOP rivals attempting to claw back into the race and Democratic favorite Hillary Clinton tuning up for a possible general election run. Senators Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz stepped up their personal and policy-based barrage against Trump Sunday, warning that the real estate mogul's nomination would be catastrophic for the Republican Party in November and beyond. "We're about to lose the conservative movement to someone who's not a conservative and (lose) the party of Lincoln and Reagan to a con artist," Rubio told "Fox News Sunday". Trump fired back, beginning his Fox News Sunday interview with an extended, uninterrupted attack on Rubio, calling him a political lightweight and little, adding that the first-term senator "couldn't get elected dogcatcher." Meanwhile, Cruz warned the "Trump train" could become "unstoppable" if he rolls to big victories in this week's Super Tuesday primaries. Cruz cast Trump as a carbon copy of Clinton and suggested that not even Trump "knows what he would do" as president. The only campaign that has beaten Donald Trump is mine, said the Texas senator, arguing that 65 percent of GOP voters dont support Trump. The only way to beat Donald Trump is to stand behind our campaign on Super Tuesday." Cruz later became upset over continued questions by "Fox News Sunday" host Chris Wallace about the integrity of his campaign, following allegations about so-called dirty tricks that resulted in the forced resignation of spokesman Rick Tyler. Cruz accused Wallace of using Trump opposition research to frame questions and ended the interview in silence. Later Sunday, Rubio mocked Trump's physical characteristics in addition to his policy positions, telling a heavily college-age crowd of around 3,000 at Roanoke College in Salem, Va. that Trump "has these small hands." "You know what they say about a man with small hands," Rubio said as the crowd laughed. "You can't trust them." Rubio also mocked Trump for his complexion, as he has before, accusing him of having a bad "spray tan." "Donald is not going to make America great," said Rubio, again drawing cheers and laughter. "He's going to make America orange!" In the wake of Trump's endorsement this week by retired Ku Klux Klan Grand wizard David Duke, Cruz suggested on Fox News Sunday that a hate group supporting Trump was making recorded calls known as robo-calls -- telling potential voters not to pick a Cuban candidate. Cruz and Rubio are both of Cuban descent. In an appearance on CNN's "State of the Union", Trump was repeatedly asked about Duke's support, finally saying, "Just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke, OK? I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists. Did he endorse me, or what's going on? During a campaign event in northern Virginia, Rubio said he "refused" to repudiate Duke -- "a well known white supremacist racist" -- despite being asked repeatedly. "We cannot be a party that nominates someone who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan," Rubio said. "Not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable." Trump reportedly knew Duke in 2000 and cited him, Pat Buchanan and Lenora Fulani when explaining why he stopped considering a presidential run under the Reform Party. "The Reform Party now includes a Klansman, Mr. Duke, a neo-Nazi, Mr. Buchanan, and a communist, Ms. Fulani. This is not company I wish to keep," Trump said, according to The New York Times. Meanwhile, Democratic frontrunner Clinton, fresh off a convincing victory in Saturday's South Carolina primary, all-but-ignored Bernie Sanders, her rival for the nomination, and turned her attention to the Republican field. Starting her morning with stops at two Memphis churches, Clinton offered an implicit critique of Trump, asking worshippers to reject "the demagoguery, the prejudice, the paranoia." Asked by actor Tony Goldwyn, who later campaigned with Clinton in Nashville, about her thoughts on Duke's support for Trump, Clinton described it, simply, as "pathetic." The Associated Press contributed to this report. The Democratic and Republican presidential candidates are charging into Super Tuesday in a coast-to-coast battle for delegates across a dozen states -- but while they're looking for as many wins as possible, a few select states stand out as the crown jewels. At the top of that list, in both primary contests, is Texas. The Lone Star State has the biggest cache -- 222 Democratic delegates and 155 for Republicans. And perhaps no candidate is fighting harder for that prize than Texas Republican Sen. Ted Cruz. The senator went all out on Monday, holding rallies in voter-rich Dallas, Houston and San Antonio in hopes of at least defeating national front-runner Donald Trump in Cruz's home state. We are going to have a very good Super Tuesday, Cruz assured the Dallas crowd. Cruz has maintained a polling lead in the state, but knows a surprise loss there could doom his campaign. For Republicans, the second-biggest prize is Georgia, with 76 delegates at stake. Both Trump and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio put in face time with voters Monday in the final hours before polls open, while Cruz stayed rooted in Texas. On the Democratic side, too, Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders have focused their efforts. While Clinton declared Saturday night after her decisive win in the South Carolina primary that the campaign was going national, the former secretary of state was concentrating Monday on two delegate-heavy states -- the Democratic-stronghold of Massachusetts (91 delegates) and Virginia (95 delegates). Solid wins there and beyond on Super Tuesday could give her a nearly insurmountable delegate count toward the nomination. Clinton to date leads Sanders in the delegate count 543-to-85, including so-called superdelegates. They will compete for 865 delegates on Tuesday and a total of roughly 1,800 delegates over the next two weeks, with 2,382 needed to win the nomination. The delegates on the line in 11 states Tuesday represent a third of those needed to clinch the party nod. And on the GOP side, 595 delegates are on the line Tuesday across 11 states -- nearly half the number needed to secure the nomination. Sanders is focusing on Minnesota and Colorado, progressive states where he hopes his message of social and economic equality will translate into votes. Americans dont need crumbs, they need the whole loaf, Sanders said at a rally in Minneapolis. He is expected on Tuesday to win his home state of Vermont, which has 16 Democratic delegates. Minnesota is worth far more, with 77 delegates. Still, many of these contests divide delegates proportionally, and so Sanders is poised to walk away with some, even where he loses. His strategy appears to be to at least survive Tuesday, with hopes of a resurgence later this month in Maine and Rust Belt states like Michigan and Ohio. On the Republican side, Trump has won three straight -- the New Hampshire and South Carolina primaries, and the Nevada Republican Caucus -- garnering 82 delegates. Cruz kicked off the 2016 balloting by winning the Iowa Republican Caucus. He has 17 delegates, ahead of Florida GOP Sen. Marco Rubio with 16. Though trailing in Texas, Trump holds big leads in other delegate-rich Super Tuesday states. The billionaire businessman leads by double-digits in Alabama, Georgia, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, Tennessee and Virginia, according to RealClearPolitics poll averages. Roughly 53 percent of the GOPs 595 delegates on Tuesday are in those states. Those polls were released before Trump over the weekend initially declined to disavow the backing of former KKK leader David Duke, which Rubio says makes him unelectable. Trump has since disavowed the support and blamed his original handling of the question on a faulty earpiece. The tough race is taking a toll on the candidates. Rubio, barnstorming the South to take hold of the GOP establishment mantle, temporarily lost his voice at a rally outside of Atlanta and needed South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who has endorsed him, to take the microphone. The two other GOP candidates, Ohio Gov. John Kasich and retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson, have six and four delegates, respectively. The Supreme Court refused on Monday to disturb a ruling from New Jersey's top court that sided with Gov. Chris Christie in a legal fight with public worker unions over pension funds. The justices did not comment in rejecting the unions' appeal. The high court order came less than three weeks after Christie ended his run for the Republican presidential nomination. New Jersey's Supreme Court ruled last year that the state is obligated to pay individual retirees their pensions, but it overturned a lower court ruling that would have forced the state to come up with billions to pay promised pension benefits. New Jersey's pension fund has nearly $75 billion in unfunded liabilities, stemming from under payment by previous governors, both Democratic and Republican. That ruling allowed Christie to propose making a roughly $1.9 billion payment to the pension fund in his 2017 fiscal year budget, well below the roughly $3.8 billion payment he and the Legislature agreed to in 2011 legislation. Christie backed away from those payments after revenues dropped below projections in the previous two fiscal years. After public worker unions sued, the state Supreme Court declined to force him to make the payments in the exact amounts called for in the statute. Democrats welcome the payment because they're including a version of Christie's payment schedule in a proposed constitutional amendment to require quarterly payments. A commission empaneled by Christie last year recommended another overhaul and said that unions and Democrats are missing an opportunity to rework a system that could be depleted for public school teachers and state employees by the next decade. Those changes would include turning the benefits into a 401(k)-style plan rather than a traditional pension, reducing the quality and cost of health benefits and turning control of the plans over to the unions, rather than leaving them under state management. The commission this month issued a new report saying cutting health benefits could save the state more than $2 billion. U.S. military personnel serving at an air base in Qatar appreciate perks like a swimming pool, gym and the chance to help defeat ISIS, but they also face 120-degree temperatures, sandstorms and - worst of all - mattresses covered with black mold and restroom facilities where broken plumbing spews raw sewage. The issues plaguing the Al Udeid Air Base in Doha, where more than 9,000 service members and civilians live and work to support the fight against terror, have been extensively reported on by Air Force Times. But they were raised once again last week during a Senate Armed Services Committee hearing on the nomination of Brad Carson to serve as undersecretary of defense for personnel and readiness. "I recently learned that our airmen . . . are being forced to live in potentially unhealthy facilities and may be getting sick from black mold exposure," Sen. Kelly Ayotte, R-N.H., who chairs the Readiness and Management Support subcommittee, said at the hearing. "Despite efforts by the local command there, and repeated requests of our airmen, the situation's not been fixed." "No airman, let alone any soldier, Marine or sailor, should be exposed to this kind of living condition." Maj. Gen. William Reddel, New Hampshire Air National Guard Ayottes staff has fielded complaints of "unacceptable" living conditions at the base, where about 100 New Hampshire Air National Guardsmen are stationed. Problems with black mold have reportedly plagued the base for years, and Ayotte said she has been told that black mold "is coming out of showers, it's in the bathrooms, it's in the curtains, and that some of our airmen are becoming sick and having symptoms as a result of it." Maj. Gen. William Reddel, adjutant general of the New Hampshire Air National Guard, told Air Force Times he saw the disgusting conditions when he visited the base last November. "I spoke to the base commander and he has been trying to address this issue, which has been years in the making, as best as he can, to include a replacement plan for the most severely affected housing units," Reddel said. "No airman, let alone any soldier, Marine or sailor, should be exposed to this kind of living condition," Reddel said in a statement. "This can have a detrimental effect on morale and negatively impact the mission." The complex, in some form, has been used since the 1990s. Ongoing construction on a permanent base began during the Iraq War, and another 20 new barracks are expected in the summer of 2016, Maj. Angela Webb, spokeswoman for the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, told Air Force Times on Feb. 18. "This is an inexcusable failure at the senior level," said retired Air Force Lt. Col. Anthony Carr, who spent a year at the base and now maintains the military blog JQPublicblog.com. "Either the generals havent created a healthy enough organizational climate to avail them of the knowledge of these problems despite their long-term predominance or they havent responded energetically and effectively enough to remedy a glaringly unacceptable problem impacting the morale and welfare of airmen." One problem may be that building materials used for the base cannot withstand the hot and humid environment in Doha, where temperatures can reach 120 degrees. Heavy rains and sandstorms cause problems as well, and residents are told to clean their facilities regularly. [Air conditioning] units, the most important thing, would break or overheat, an airman identified as Anthony wrote to Air Force Times. Just to be met with the response from the dorm managers by telling us to turn them down or turn them off briefly. This meant allowing the . . . heat to slowly cook your room rotisserie-style as you toss and turn all night. "It is not uncommon for there to be fires because the A/C units are so old and filthy that they overheat and catch fire," an airman, who asked he not be identified, added. Contaminated water is another common complaint. I got extremely sick and was hospitalized for several days, Master Sgt. Scott McKenzie, who left Al Udeid this month, told Air Force Times. I was asked NUMEROUS times by the attending staff if I used the sink water to brush my teeth? My initial reply was yes because we were never informed that the water could be a problem or potential health risk. At Thursday's hearing, Ayotte asked for a commitment to address the problem. "I don't want to hear from my Guard that they're getting sick from mold, Ayotte said. Obviously, they put their lives on the line," she said. Carson said he had been unaware of the problem, but would take immediate action if confirmed. "I will immediately look into it and try to have something back to you by the end of next week with an explanation of what we're doing and mitigation strategy," he said. Monday is Feb. 29 the bissextle or "leap day," an artifact that dates back to the year 46 B.C. Back then, Julius Caesar took the advice of the learned astronomer Sosigenes of Alexandria, who knew from Egyptian experience that the tropical year (also known as the solar year) was about 365.25 days in length. So to account for that residual quarter of a day, an extra day a leap day was added to the calendarevery four years. This new "Julian" calendar was used throughout the Roman Empire and by various Christian churches. At that time, February was the last month of the year. [Earth Quiz: Do You Really Know Your Planet?] Initially, in order to make a proper transition from the Roman calendar (which had 355 days and which was basically a lunar calendar) to the Julian calendar, and to get the months and various feast days and holidays back into their normal seasons, 90 extra days were inserted into the year 46 B.C. Caesar divided these 90 extra days into three temporary months. One month was added between February and March. Two other months (Intercalaris Prior and Intercalaris Posterior) were added after November. The end result was a year that was 15 months and 445 days long, and was nicknamed Annus Confusionus the Year of Confusion. Then, to honor his contribution to timekeeping, Julius Caesar later renamed the fifth month (formerly known as Quintilis) after himself (July). See what sweeping changes you can make when you're an emperor? Flawed timetable The Julian calendar worked so well at first that many countries adopted it. Unfortunately, it was flawed, being 0.0078 of a day (about 11 minutes and 14 seconds) longer than the tropical year. So, the Julian calendar introduced an error of one day every 128 years, which means that, every 128 years, the tropical year shifts one day backward with respect to the calendar. This made the method for calculating the dates for Easter inaccurate. As a result, by the year 1582 thanks to the overcompensation of observing too many leap years the calendar had fallen out of step with the solar year by a total of 10 days. It was then that Pope Gregory XIII stepped in and, with the advice of a German Jesuit mathematician and astronomer named Christopher Clavius, produced our current Gregorian calendar. First, to catch things up, 10 days were omitted after Thursday, Oct. 4, 1582, making the next day Friday, Oct. 15. This edict was most unpopular; many people felt that 10 days had been taken from their lives. There were riots in the streets throughout Europe, and workers demanded their 10 days' pay forgetting, conveniently, that they hadn't worked those 10 days! Thankfully, the hubbub eventually died down. Next, to more closely match the length of the tropical year, "century years" were declared not to be leap years (though they had been leap years in the old Julian calendar). The exceptions were those century years divisible by 400. And that's why the year 2000 was a leap year, but 1700, 1800 and 1900 were not. Some couldn't let go The Gregorian calendar, however, was not adopted by the American Colonies until 1752. That's why George Washington was not born on Washington's Birthday. In our time, we celebrate Washington's Birthday on Feb. 22. But the United States' first president was born in 1732 and by that time, the error in the Julian calendar had increased to 11 days. So a calendar hanging on the wall where Washington was born would have read Feb. 11, 1732. And if you think the 20 years that it took the American Colonies to finally ratify the Gregorian calendar was a long time, that was nothing compared to Russia, which finally accepted calendar reformation in 1918. And Greece held out even longer all the way to 1923! The Gregorian calendar has proven to be far superior to the Julian calendar. Over a span of one year, it runs 26 seconds too fast, but that's an error so slight that it will not be necessary to eliminate a day from the calendar until around the year 5300. Suggested 'improvements' Still, some people would like to see our calendar changed yet again. One of the more popular proposals is the World Calendar created by Elisabeth Achelis of The World Calendar Association in 1930. The World Calendar consists of 364 days. The year would be divided into four quarters, with each quarter consisting of three months. The first month of each new quarter (January, April, July and October) would have 31 days and would always begin on a Sunday. All the remaining months would have just 30 days. In such a setup, each date would fall on the same day of the week every year. So if you were born on a Tuesday, your birthday would always fall on a Tuesday. Independence Day would always fall on a Wednesday; Christmas Day would be a Monday; and Thanksgiving would finally have a fixed date: Nov. 23, since the fourth Thursday in November on the World Calendar would always be on that date. Triskaidekaphobes likely would not like this new setup; it would mean four Friday the 13ths every year. (Currently, the maximum number for any given year is three.) But wait! This is a 364-day calendar. What happens to day 365? And what about leap years? Dec. 31 would be recognized as "Worldsday" (a world holiday). It would come between Saturday, Dec. 30 and Sunday, Jan. 1. As for leap years, the extra day would be inserted not at the end of February as it is now, but at the end of June. June 31 would thus become a second World Holiday; like the Olympics, it would be celebrated every four years. In the Jan. 17, 2016, issue of Parade magazine, Marilyn vos Savant answered a question from a reader who wanted to know if there were a "less clunky" alternative to our present calendar. Vos Savant mentioned the Symmetry454 calendar, a perennial solar calendar that conserves the traditional seven-day week, has symmetrical, equal quarters, and starts every month on Monday. All holidays, birthdays, anniversaries and the like are permanently fixed. All ordinal day and week numbers within the year are also permanently fixed; Friday the 13th never occurs under this calendar. "But there's a teensy drawback," vos Savant wrote. "Every five or six years, you would have to add a week at the end of December!" So it seems that, like it or not, we are stuck at least for now with our current calendar. Joe Rao serves as an instructor and guest lecturer at New York's Hayden Planetarium. He writes about astronomy for Natural History magazine, the Farmer's Almanac and other publications, and he is also an on-camera meteorologist for News 12 Westchester, N.Y. Follow us @Spacedotcom, Facebook or Google+. Originally published on Space.com. Police in Indiana have asked the public for help solving the mystery of two men and a teenager who were part of an African community and were found shot to death last week inside a Fort Wayne home. The bodies of 23-year-old Mohamedtaha Omar, 20-year-old Adam Kamel Mekki and 17-year-old Muhannad Adam Tairab were found Wednesday evening by officers responding to a "problem unknown" dispatch. Police Chief Garry Hamilton told WANE each was shot multiple times, and Safety Director Rusty York said authorities don't have any reason to believe the killings were a hate crime. The residence where the bodies were found was known as a party house for teens and young adults of African descent, York told WPTA. York told the station that the owners of the house now live in Indianapolis and their absenteeism had allowed the house to be taken over. York also said detectives don't have any suspects. He told WPTA-TV that some people hanging out at the house left for less than an hour Wednesday and found the victims' bodies when they returned. The families of the three were from central Africa and belonged to a community that is heavily Muslim, Hamilton and York told the (Fort Wayne) Journal-Gazette. Darfur People's Association founder and vice president Motasim Adam, who visited with the families Saturday, told The Associated Press on Sunday that Omar and Tairab were Muslim and Mekki was Christian. A day of remembrance started at the Islamic Center of Fort Wayne on Saturday for Omar and Tairab, who immigrated to the U.S. in the last decade, WANE reported. "We all came here to find peace and security ... we're from war zones," Abdelaziz Hassab, a relative of the two, told the television station. He also said Omar and Tairab "always have been diligent to help their families and look for a better future." The police chief offered his condolences at the remembrance and urged people to help police solve the crime. "We cannot let this happen in our community anymore. I hope this is the very last incidence this ever happens within our community. I need you to not retaliate to take this upon yourself," Hamilton said. "I need someone to come and tell me what they know." The families of Omar and Tairab will meet with police Tuesday to hear about the ongoing investigation. The Associated Press contributed to this report. A missing 4-year-old girl was found alive on Sunday, two days after she was reportedly abducted from an Indian reservation, a Montana sheriff's spokesperson told the Associated Press. Maci Lilley was reported missing Friday from the Fort Peck Indian Reservation in Wolf Point. Authorities said a suspect in the abduction, 20-year-old John Lieba, has been taken into custody. Maci was undergoing a medical exam on Sunday, Roosevelt County spokesman Lee Allmer said. The girl was found by Undersheriff Corey Reum a few miles north of Wolf Point, the town where she was last seen. "She was found apparently in good health, " Allmer said. "We're not divulging the location. The investigation is still active." The FBI was in charge of the investigation into the kidnapping. Allmer told the Missoulian newspaper that Lieba was not related to Maci of anyone in her family by blood, but could have been a family friend. Other agencies involved in the search included Border Patrol, the Montana Highway Patrol, the Wolf Point Police Department, tribal police, Bureau of Indian Affairs Criminal Investigators and other agencies. The search included military and private aircraft. Authorities said witnesses reported a man took the child from a park where she had been playing around 9:30 p.m. Friday. "I think that we all had in the back of our minds thinking the worst," Allmer said, "but this is the best possible thing that could have happened." The Associated Press contributed to this report. A teenage gunman burst into the lunch room of an Ohio school Monday morning and opened fire, wounding four students before a K-9 unit caught him, local media report. The shooting unfolded at Madison Junior/Senior High School in Butler County, where the 14-year-old suspect is a student. He now faces charges including attempted murder and making terrorist threats. It's not clear whether he targeted certain students or fired at random, Sheriff Richard Jones said. The suspect bolted from the school after the shooting, got rid of his gun, and ran into a field before the K-9 unit caught him, the Journal-News reports. Investigators said he used a .380 caliber handgun, according to Fox 19. We have received clearance from the Butler County Sheriff. Students at the MJSHS are currently dismissing as quickly as... Posted by Madison Local Schools on Monday, February 29, 2016 Two students were hurt by gunshots and two others apparently by shrapnel, Butler County Chief Deputy Anthony Dwyer said. One of the students is 15 and the others are 14. Each is in stable condition in the hospital. The school lifted its lockdown after the sheriff gave the all-clear. "It was painful... hard to concentrate," parent Ken Gairland said as he drove to pick up his sons. At least one of the victims was shot in the leg. The other injuries appear to be more serious, but not life-threatening. At least two AirCare helicopters flew to the school. "I just cleared the scene there and it is hectic," Rodney Muterspaw, police chief of nearly Middletown, said. Data curated by FindTheData Butler County is roughly 30 miles north of Cincinnati. The district has about 250 junior high and 500 high school students, according to enrollment estimates in Ohio Department of Education records. Click for more from Fox 19. Fox News' Chad Pergram and The Associated Press contributed to this report. A prosecutor in New York City said a U.S. Air Force veteran wanted to join the Islamic State group and die a martyr, but the defense calls the federal case fantasy. The differing portrayals came during opening statements Monday at the trial of Tairod Pugh in Brooklyn. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Bini told an anonymous jury that Pugh went to Turkey intending to travel to Syria and join the Islamic State. He said Pugh destroyed four computer flash drives when he realized he was being scrutinized by authorities. Defense lawyer Eric Creizman said his client is innocent. He said Pugh was not going to Syria. He warned jurors that some of Pugh's opinions are offensive, but he said Pugh does not believe in killing civilians. A former hospital worker is expected to plead guilty in the high-profile slayings of two college students in Virginia, a prosecutor said Monday. Albemarle County Commonwealth's Attorney Robert Tracci announced the plea agreements in Jesse LeRoy Matthew Jr.'s cases in a brief news release. Matthew is due in Albemarle County Circuit Court on Wednesday. Details of the agreement were withheld "in the interest of protecting the integrity of the judicial process," Tracci wrote. Matthew is charged with murder in the deaths of 18-year-old Hannah Graham and 20-year-old Morgan Harrington. Without the plea agreement, he could have faced the death penalty in the Graham case had he been convicted at trial. He's already serving life in prison for a sexual assault in Fairfax County. Matthew's attorney, public capital defender Douglas Ramseur, declined to comment. Morgan's mother, Gil Harrington, said she did not object to taking the death penalty off the table. She said the community will benefit "because a vicious predator has been removed from their midst." "That's a huge gain." She said that "we're still without our daughter, so it's not a great celebration," but added that resolving the case will allow the family to "move forward and do more good in Morgan's memory." Following her daughter's disappearance, Gil Harrington formed a nonprofit organization, Help Save the Next Girl, to combat violence against women and provide outreach to victims. Hannah's father, John Graham, said he would have no comment until after Wednesday's hearing. Matthew's trial in the Graham slaying had been set for this summer, with the Harrington case following in the fall. Graham's September 2014 disappearance came amid rising national concern about sexual assaults and other crimes around universities. A massive search ended when a team from a Richmond-area sheriff's office found her body five weeks later on abandoned property in Albemarle County, about 12 miles from the Charlottesville campus and 6 miles from a hayfield where Harrington's remains had been found in January 2010. Harrington had vanished while attending a Metallica concert at the University of Virginia in 2009. Authorities have not said exactly how either student died. Graham disappeared after a night out with friends in Charlottesville. In surveillance video, she can be seen walking unsteadily and running at times before crossing a seven-block strip of bars, restaurants and shops. Another video captured her leaving a restaurant with Matthew, his arm around her. He was the last person seen with Graham, according to authorities. After police named Matthew a person of interest in Graham's disappearance, he fled and was later apprehended on a beach in southeast Texas. He was charged with abduction with intent to defile, a felony that empowered police to swab his cheek for a DNA sample. That sample connected Matthew to a 2005 sexual assault in Fairfax County, a Virginia suburb of Washington, D.C., according to authorities. The DNA evidence in the Fairfax sexual assault, in turn, linked Matthew to the Harrington case, authorities have said. The charge against Matthew in the Graham case was later upgraded to capital murder, giving prosecutors the option to seek the death penalty. Matthew, who was a taxi driver before going to work at the University of Virginia hospital, also had been accused of raping students in 2002 and 2003 at Liberty University and Christopher Newport University, where he had played football. But those cases were dropped when the women declined to press charges. The Latest on the fatal shooting of an Ohio pastor (all times local): 3:15 p.m. The man being held in the fatal shooting of his pastor brother at an Ohio church sued the minister over an inheritance dispute five years ago. Police in Dayton say suspect Daniel Schooler is the brother of the Rev. William B. Schooler. The pastor died Sunday at St. Peter's Missionary Baptist Church. Court records show Daniel Schooler sued his brother and church leaders in 2011, saying he was owed money from the real estate value of the church. A court ruled against Daniel Schooler's claim. Police have said they don't know what led to the shooting. A relative told the Dayton Daily News that Daniel Schooler has a history of mental illness. The newspaper also reports that Daniel Schooler shot his nephew in the arm in 2001, but the nephew didn't want to press charges. ___ 7:15 a.m. Authorities investigating the slaying of a southwest Ohio pastor expect to charge his brother in the fatal shooting that occurred at the pastor's church office as services were winding down. Dayton police say the Rev. William B. Schooler was shot around 12:30 p.m. Sunday at St. Peter's Missionary Baptist Church. The 70-year-old pastor's brother was arrested at the church and taken to the Montgomery County jail. Police say they expect 68-year-old Daniel Gregory Schooler will face a murder charge Monday. Jail records don't list an attorney for Schooler. Police said they did not know Sunday what led to the shooting, but said the pastor was the only intended victim. The brothers' niece, Joyce Napier, told the Dayton Daily News that Daniel Schooler has a history of mental illness. ___ Information from: Dayton Daily News, http://www.daytondailynews.com An Army staff sergeant has admitted shooting his wife and three police officers who showed up at his front door after his wife called 911, according to court records. One of the officers, Ashley Guindon, died from her injuries in Saturday's shooting. Guindon had just been sworn in and was working her first shift. Ronald Hamilton, 32, of Woodbridge, is charged with capital murder in Guindon's death. He also faces a murder charge in the shooting death of his wife, Crystal Hamilton, 29. The affidavit filed Monday in General District Court states that officers arrived at the Hamiltons' home in reference to a domestic dispute. "When officers arrived on the scene they were met by the accused at the front door. The accused fired a rifle from the area of the front door striking three officers," the affidavit states. The affidavit says that more officers conducted a sweep of the home after Hamilton was brought under control, and they found Crystal Hamilton's body in a bedroom. "The accused made statements to law enforcement officers stating that he shot his wife and the police officers," according to the affidavit. The Hamiltons' 11 year-old son was in the home at the time, and was unharmed. Hamilton made separate initial appearances Monday morning in court. He appeared via video from the county jail, an orange jumpsuit covering his 6-foot-2, 260-pound frame. Hamilton said little during the hearing, except to request a court-appointed attorney. The judges in both hearings appointed Ed Ungvarsky, the state's capital public defender, to represent Hamilton. Ungvarsky told the judge he spoke briefly to Hamilton on Sunday, and said that Hamilton wanted to rescind permission that he had previously given to police to review his medical and military records. He suggested prosecutors should not be allowed to review any documents they may have already obtained. Commonwealth's Attorney Paul Ebert said after Monday's hearing that any documents obtained by his office before Hamilton rescinded his permission are fair game. "If they're on my desk, I'll look at them," Ebert said. Ebert has been the county's top prosecutor for 48 years and has handled numerous high-profile cases, including Beltway sniper John Allen Muhammad. He said Guindon's death has been especially tough on the law-enforcement community and the county as a whole. "It's taken a toll on everybody. There have been very few dry eyes in the police department the last few days," he said. Ebert declined to discuss details of the case. In court, he said Hamilton had been charged with assault in another state, but he did not discuss the charge in detail, and he declined to say whether Hamilton's wife was the victim in that case. Ungvarsky declined comment to reporters after the hearing. Police said at a press conference Sunday that the two wounded officers Jesse Hempen, 31, and David McKeown, 33 are expected to survive but face long recoveries. Hamilton was ordered held without bond. The Navy SEAL who will become on Monday the sixth member of that elite force to receive the Medal of Honor proved his mettle in hand-to-hand combat in Afghanistan or more accurately, hand-to-throat. During a daring nighttime raid in 2012 to rescue an American citizen from Taliban clutches, Edward Byers Jr. leaped across the room to shield the hostage from oncoming fire while simultaneously engaging a Taliban guard. While covering the hostage with his body, Chief Byers was able to pin the enemy combatant to the wall with his hand around the enemys throat, according to a Navy news release. Earlier in the mission, Byers, who will receive the medal Monday from President Obama at the White House, grabbed a Taliban guard with one hand while adjusting the focus of his night vision goggles with his other. Anyone who has been in combat knows that in those moments you either react or you get killed, Byers said in a Navy video. After his team rescued the hostage and boarded a helicopter, Byers spent the 40-minute flight back to Bagram Airfield attempting to resuscitate another member of his team who had been shot, Nicholas Cheque. Cheque died, but Byers said hell be accepting the award on behalf of all fallen SEALs. Im going to be a representative for the Navy and the Naval Special Warfare Community and theres a weight that that carries with, Byers said. And that weight is the sacrifices that everybody has made within this community, guys like Nick Cheque and all my other brothers who have fallen. Its an affirmation, once again, of the job that we do. Byers, 36, became a SEAL in 2003. Hell be the sixth SEAL Medal of Honor recipient and the first living one since the Vietnam War, The Navy Times reported. Byers is the 11th living service member to receive the Medal of Honor for fighting in Afghanistan, according to Stars and Stripes. To be a Navy SEAL means you have to be incredibly resilient, Byers said. You have to be hardworking. Theyre the toughest men on the face of this planet. Any mission theyre given, they will have success at it, and ultimately they are our brothers who, if they have to, theyll die for you. Cheque was posthumously awarded the Navy Cross, according to The Washington Post, citing Navy officials. The man hired to help ease racial tensions at University of Missouri had tough love for the African-American activists who led fierce demonstrations there last fall, telling them late last week he has no intention of caving in to their demands. Interim Vice Chancellor Chuck Henson, whose portfolio includes inclusion, diversity and equity, wrote a letter to Concerned Student 1950 Thursday, telling the group to stop making demands and work with the school to make things better. "If you sincerely want better relationships, the time for demands, threats and arbitrary deadlines is over you don't need them," Henson wrote. Demands from the group, which takes its name from the 1950 admission of the schools first black student, Gus Ridgel, include an academic bankruptcy program in which students could delete one bad semesters grades from their records, according to The College Fix. Other demands include the hiring of more black faculty, $250,000 to expand the Black Cultural Center with a Liberation House, and a statue of civil rights activist Lloyd Gaines in the Carnahan Quadrangle. Henson invited group members to meet him, but said many of the demands are neither realistic nor legal. Hiring faculty or staff or admitting minority students to meet quotas could violate state and federal law, he said. "There are things, like hiring faculty or staff, or admitting students based on protected characteristics to meet a numerical target, will not and cannot be done," Henson wrote. "It is against state and federal law. It also is a bad model for a sustainable community." UM System Interim President Mike Middleton echoed Henson's language in an emailed response to the revised demands. "The time for demands has passed," he told the Missourian, the schools newspaper.. Earlier demands by Concerned Student 1950, released in October, included a call for then-University President Tim Wolfe's apology and resignation, both of which Wolfe submitted. In a tweet last week, the student-led group said its other demands must also be met. "Be clear, these demands are not to be seen as 'request,' but obligatory to addressing and dismantling institutional racism on our campus," read the statement. We will remain committed to ensuring our demands are met by any means necessary. In the incident that perhaps drew the most attention to the autumn protests, a communications professor, Melissa Click, tried to oust a student journalist from the quadrangle where demonstrators had gathered. "I need some muscle over here," she was heard shouting. More video surfaced of her cursing at police officers. She was eventually fired. Under pressure from Gov. Chris Christies administration, red flags in the background checks of New Jersey police academy applicants were overlooked in order to increase racial diversity in the State Police, according to a whistleblowing lawsuit filed by a veteran trooper. Acting Sgt. Jaclyn Jiras served as a background investigator while the division was churning out its most racially diverse classes, in 2012 and 2013. But, according to the lawsuit viewed by NJ Advance Media, numerous applicants with automatic disqualifiers were forced into the [application] process. Among those disqualifiers were applicants found guilty of tax evasion, with active criminal warrants and with Facebook accounts showing ties to the Bloods street gang. The push to include more minorities in the State Police ranks came on the heels of the New Jersey chapter of the NAACP threatening legal action. Because the academy was to start shortly and the attorney generals office determined it wanted additional diversity, 20 minority candidates who had been automatically disqualified and were no longer part of the process were removed from the disqualification list and put back into the process, according to the complaint. When Jiras complained, she said she was removed from the background investigation detail and denied a scheduled promotion. Out of the seven background investigations Jiras conducted, six candidates were disqualified and one withdrew, the lawsuit states. When the next class came, Jiras was informed that she would not be doing background investigations as she was too good at her job. Jiras said she raised her concerns in a January 2015 letter to the State Polices Office of Professional Standards, but hasnt received a response. The state of New Jersey, the State Police, Superintendent Col. Rick Fuentes and Capt. Mark Santiago are named as defendants. Spokesmen for Gov. Christie, the State Police and the attorney generals office did not comment to NJ Advanced Media. Click to read more from NJ.com. The Christian pastor from Idaho who was freed from Iran in January after more than three years told Fox News Monday his faith kept him strong in prison, and that he now plans to tour churches across the U.S. and document his harrowing experience in a book. Saeed Abedini, who converted from Islam to Christianity in 2000, was arrested and imprisoned in 2012 for opening churches in the Islamic Republic. Speaking to Martha MacCallum on "America's Newsroom," he said Iranian officials accused him of plotting regime change. Abedini recounted that he prayed in prison on America's behalf for 100 hours. The pastor and three other Americans were freed last month as part of a prisoner swap. Washington Post reporter Jason Rezaian and retired Marine Amir Hekmati also returned to the U.S., while a fourth man, Nosratollah Khosravi-Roodsari, reportedly chose to stay in Iran. Student Matthew Trevithick was released separately, U.S. officials said. Abedini said he was working with other pastors to try bringing "healing and peace" with his wife, Naghmeh. He had previously denied her accusations that he had abused her, but confirmed to Fox News their relationship was "not good." Abedini said that seeing Hekmati in solitary confinement reduced him to tears. Abedini claimed he himself had just left solitary, and saw that the Marine had been a victim of torture at the hands of the Iranian regime. The pastor saw "how much they really hate us, hate Americans, hate Christians," he told Fox News. The countdown is on until Super Tuesday when a dozen states hold primaries or caucuses. Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio trying to stop the Trump freight train. Hillary Clinton looking to seal the deal with Democrats when several big states hold their primaries. Hillary Clinton stomped Bernie Sanders this weekend in South Carolina. She performed even better than Barack Obama among African Americans winning 90% of their votes. Her so-called Southern Strategy seems to be paying off. Sanders admitted on the Sunday shows he got decimated. New polling from NBC News/WSJ/Marist show Hillary Clint on with big leads in Texas, Georgia and Tennessee. Those same polls show Trump leading Georgia and Tennessee while Ted Cruz is ahead by 13 in Texas. New polling from CBS and YouGov mirror those numbers with Clinton ahead by 20 in Virginia. Clinton ahead by 24 in Texas, and 28 in Georgia. It also shows her beating Sanders in Massachusetts which was once though competitive. On the GOP side, Trump ahead by 13 in Virginia. It shows Cruz ahead by 11 in Texas. Trump by 11 in Georgia. Theres also new national polling from CNN/ORC. It has Trump with 49% of the vote, Rubio gets 16%, and Cruz gets 15% among national GOP voters. Clinton beats Sanders 55% to 38% nationally. Ted Cruz is campaigning today in Texas which is now considered a must-win for the Senator in his home state. He got into a heated exchange with Chris Wallace on Fox News Sunday. It was really ugly this weekend. Rubio even opening a new front against Trump calling out what he calls Trumps small hands. Controversy is raging over Donald Trumps initial refusal this weekend to disavow the white supremacist David Duke. Trump has since disavowed Dukes support. Duke was a leader of the KKK and has said his supporters should consider Trump. Trump initially refused to disavow the leaders support, but has since backtracked. Both Ted Cruz and Marco Rubio making it an issue with Rubio saying, We cannot be a party who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan." Heres how Philip Rucker and Robert Costa report on the race in the Washington Post today, The implosion over Donald Trump's candidacy that Republicans had hoped to avoid arrived so virulently this weekend that many party leaders vowed never to back the billionaire and openly questioned whether the GOP could come together this election year. At a moment when Republicans had hoped to begin taking on Hillary Clinton - who is seemingly on her way to wrapping up the Democratic nomination - the GOP has instead become consumed by a crisis over its identity and core values that is almost certain to last through the July party convention, if not the rest of the year. Lots of GOP events today during our hours. 1100ET -- Cruz rally, Gilley's Dallas, 1135 South Lamar Street, Dallas, TX LIVE 1130ET -- Kasich Town Hall, Castleton University, Campus Center, 62 Alumni Drive, Castleton, VT TBD 1200EST -- Donald Trump holds a rally. Radford Univ, Radford, VA. LIVE 1230EST -- Sen Rubio holds a rally. Atlanta, GA. LIVE via LiveU Stocks look to open lower after big falls in China and Europe. Moderates performed well in Iranian parliamentary elections.. seen as a referendum on the nuke deal. Bret Stephens will report. A partial truce in Syria was marred by airstrikes and artillery attacks according to the New York Times. President Obama set to award Senior Chief Edward C Byers Jr the Medal of Honor today. Hes a Navy Seal who heroically saved the life of Dr Dilip Joseph who was abducted along with his driver in Afghanistan and rescued by the Seals 1115EST -- POTUS presents the Medal of Honor to Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator Edward Byers, US Navy, for his courageous actions while serving as part of a team that rescued an American civilian being held hostage in 2012. LIVE Spotlight won best picture at the Oscars. Brie Larson won Best Actress for Room. Leonardo DiCaprio won Best Actor for Revenant. For more news, follow me on Twitter: @ClintPHenderson Three men in California, reportedly white supremacists, were arrested for allegedly attacking Hispanics at a park outside Los Angeles on Sunday. The incident unfolded at Stephen Sorensen Park in Lake Los Angeles. Investigators said the unnamed suspects in their late teens and early 20s shouted racial slurs and pulled knives on a family who intended to intervene, KABC reports. At least one suspect waved around a wallet with a Confederate flag, KNBC adds. Nobody was seriously hurt, officials say. The men reportedly took off after learning deputies were called. Law enforcement finally caught up with them in a nearby desert, KABC adds. The alleged attack took place one day after a vicious brawl in Anaheim in which several people were seen beating, stomping and attacking Klansmen with wooden posts at an anti-immigration rally. The Associated Press contributed to this report. At least 14 people were killed over the weekend when the island nation of Madagascar was battered by a tropical storm, officials said Monday. Tropical storm Chedza has displaced more than 36,000 Madagascans, said the National Office of Risk and Catastrophe Management. Most of the deaths were a result of landslides caused by heavy rain and building collapses as strong winds tore roofs from houses. Flooding was especially severe in the capital Antananarivo, where more than 30,000 people have been displaced, said the national office. The Madagascan government has set up temporary shelters in schools and other public buildings to house those forced from their homes. Tropical storm Chedza passed over the island nation on Friday and Saturday and is continuing in a southeast direction, according to satellite images published by NASA. The tropical storm may intensify as it crosses the Indian Ocean toward Africa's southeastern coast. The southern African countries of Mozambique and Malawi have been affected by flooding caused by heavy rains. At least 176 people have died and about 200,000 are displaced in Malawi, while dozens have died and thousands displaced in Mozambique. A man has stabbed 10 children outside the gates of a school in China, severely injuring two, before killing himself. Six boys and four girls were attacked outside a primary school in the city of Haikou, on the southern island province of Hainan, state broadcaster China Central Television reported. The youngsters were taken to hospital. None of them suffered life-threatening injuries, but two were seriously hurt in Monday's attack. Police described it as a "vicious" attack. The body of the attacker, who killed himself, is removed from the scene "I thought my child would be safe at school. I didn't think something like this would happen," the mother of Liu Qiang, seven, told the Nanhai Online news portal at the hospital where her son was being treated. The attacker was later identified as 45-year-old Li Sijun. Violent crime in China is rare compared with other countries. However, there have been a series of attacks involving knives and axes in recent years. Children have been targeted in many of these assaults. In 2014, three children and a teacher were stabbed to death by a man at a primary school that refused to enrol his daughter. A man killed two relatives and wounded 11 people, including six children, outside a school in Shanghai in March 2013. In 2010, a 42-year-old man killed eight children at a primary school in China's Fujian province. Click for more from Sky News. Under the eye of hundreds of riot police, workers began pulling down tents and makeshift shelters in the sprawling camp in Calais on Monday, dismantling the fragile structures that have served as temporary homes for migrants hoping to make their way to a better life in Britain. A flashpoint on the edge of the Channel, the camp sprang up less than a year ago in the port city, which has both ferries and the Eurotunnel rail route to Britain. It has grown explosively in past months amid Europe's migrant crisis, fueling far-right sentiment in both Britain and France. Some 4,000 people are estimated to live in the camp down from 6,000 in December. Calais has lived with migrants in its midst for years, but the current camp on the city's edge sprang up around a day center opened last April by the state and after small camps inside the city were bulldozed. The dismantling of the dense southern portion of the current camp would be the largest such operation the city has known. Scores of riot police stood guard, keeping journalists and volunteers out as helmeted workers tackled the shelters one by one. Prefect Fabienne Buccio, who had ordered the camp evacuated and dismantled earlier this month, showed up as the operation began. Her office decried "intimidation" tactics by some activists who she said were manipulating migrants into refusing to accept government offers of shelter. "Really three houses out of four I mean three huts out of four, or three tents out of four were already totally abandoned with a lot of garbage inside," she said. Migrants, she said, "had the time necessary to gather their belongings. The rest was good enough to throw away." However, cameras zooming into huts captured scenes of daily life fully intact. The start of what is likely to be a weeks-long operation came four days after a court ruled that shelters could come down but not common areas like houses of worship, a school, a women's center and library, much of it built with the help of French and British volunteers appalled by conditions in the makeshift camp. Humanitarian groups and migrants who had contested the state decision to level the most populous sector of the camp appealed the ruling on Friday with the Council of State, but any decision is likely to take weeks or months, long after the camp is gone. French authorities are offering to relocate uprooted migrants into heated containers installed last month nearby, or at centers around France where they can decide whether to apply for asylum. Many have resisted the move, fearing it will hurt their chances of reaching Britain, and some migrant advocates say there isn't enough space in the new area. The entire adult male population of a village in southern Iran was executed for drug offenses last week as part of a country-wide crackdown on trafficking, state media report. Irans vice-president for women and family affairs, Shahindokht Molaverdi, revealed the news in an interview with the Mehr News agency last week, but did not say when or where the executions took place, or how many people were killed. We have a village in Sistan and Baluchestan province where every single man has been executed, she said, according to The Guardian. Their children are potential drug traffickers as they would want to seek revenge and provide money for their families. There is no support for these people. Molaverdi said President Hassan Rouhanis government has brought back previously-axed family support programs. We believe that if we do not support these people, they will be prone to crime, thats why the society is responsible for the families of those executed, she said. Human rights groups denounced the executions. The apparent hanging of every man in one Iranian village demonstrates the astonishing scale of Irans execution spree, Maya Foa, from the anti-death penalty group Reprieve, told The Guardian. These executions often based on juvenile arrests, torture, and unfair or nonexistent trials show total contempt for the rule of law, and it is shameful that the UN and its funders are supporting the police forces responsible. China is the worlds most prolific executioner, with Iran coming in second, according to Amnesty International. The Islamic Republic hanged 753 people in 2014, more than half of whom were convicted of drug-related offenses, the group said. In 2015, nearly 700 people were executed in Iran in the first half of the year alone, it added. The mass executions have led activists to call on the U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime to stop funding the Iranian governments anti-narcotics campaign until Tehran ends the use of capital punishment for such offenses, The Guardian reports. Click for more from The Guardian. The Islamic State continued its bombing rampage in Iraq Monday claiming responsibility for an attack at a funeral that killed at least 38 people, in a new sign the terror group is resorting to mass attacks on civilians as it suffers battlefield setbacks. The suicide bombing unfolded one day after a double bombing in Baghdad killed 73 people. ISIS claimed responsibility for that attack as well. Monday's bombing struck a funeral in Muqdadiyah, about 60 miles north of Baghdad. 58 people were wounded, according to security and hospital officials. The dead included a local commander in Asaib Ahl al-Haq, a powerful Shiite militia that is part of the state-sanctioned Popular Mobilization Forces, responsible for much of the security in the area. ISIS had bombed a cafe frequented by militiamen in Muqdadiyah in January, killing at least 32 people and triggering a wave of revenge attacks on Sunni mosques and civilians. The New York-based Human Rights Watch blamed the reprisal attacks on powerful militias within the Popular Mobilization Forces. Sunday's bombings marked the deadliest single attack in the Iraqi capital in months. The initial blast ripped through a crowded market in the Shiite district of Sadr City. A suicide bomber then targeted the crowd that gathered to help the victims. Two police officials said 112 people remain hospitalized from Sunday's attacks. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. ISIS still controls much of northern and western Iraq, but has been driven back in recent months. The government recently declared the western city of Ramadi "fully liberated." ISIS had captured the city last year. The Associated Press contributed to this report. The vote on the U.S.-penned and Chinese-approved United Nations Security Council resolution that calls for strong sanctions on North Korea over its January nuclear test and February long-range missile launch is being delayed by Moscow. The 15-member council was poised to vote on the resolution over the weekend, but Russia, a veto-wielding member of the council, has asked for more time to review it. Negotiations over the resolution started after Pyongyangs fourth nuclear test on January 6. Russian Ambassador to the United Nations Pyotr Ilyichev told reporters Moscow needs time to study the resolution as it contains a vast number of details, but some western diplomats tell Fox News the delay can be attributed to Kremlin muscle flexing, signaling to Washington and Beijing that they may agree on the resolutions text, but ultimately both governments must fully include Moscow in considerations. China and Russia historically have been North Koreas allies on the Security Council, often delaying and blocking action that would punish their Cold War partner. The White House announced last week that Beijing, also a veto-wielding member of the council, was on board to let the U.S. resolution pass. By Thursday afternoon, the Security Council held consultations on the draft resolution. After the meeting, U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Samantha Power said the resolution contained the strongest set of sanctions imposed by the Security Council in more than two decades, requiring for the first time all cargo going in and out of North Korea to be inspected. The resolution also imposes stiffer financial sanctions on North Korean banks and assets, as well as placing restrictions on the exports of North Korean coal and precious minerals and a ban on imports of aviation and rocket fuel. After the draft resolution was shared with council members, U.N. diplomats said they expected a vote as early as Saturday. Russia has been the sole hold-out as the council awaits the green light from Moscow to go ahead with the vote. In principle, the vote could be called later Monday, but as the day progresses that has appeared less likely. Russian police arrested a nanny Monday and charged her with murder after she was found at a Moscow subway station holding the severed head of a child, yelling "Allahu Akbar," according to media reports. The woman is believed to be from Central Asia, investigators said, and was captured on CCTV footage holding up what appears to be a head near the Oktyabrskoye Pole station in Moscow, The Guardian reports. Russian news website Lifenews.ru posted footage of the incident and said a policeman had approached the woman to check her documents and she responded by pulling the head out of her bag, according to Reuters. In the video, the woman, dressed in a hijab, can be heard yelling for a terrorist, for your death, The Guardian reports. Russian investigators said in a statement that the head was from a 3 or 4-year-old girl whose body had been discovered in a nearby apartment. Having waited for the parents to leave the flat with their older child, she killed the child for unknown reasons, started the flat on fire and fled, the statement said, according to The Guardian. "She was standing near the metro entrance and caught my attention because she was screaming Allahu Akbar, RBC Daily reporter Polina Nikolskaya told Reuters. I saw that she had a bloodied head in her arms, but I thought it was not real. People in the crowd said it was real." The nanny also was yelling that she would below herself up, but no explosives were found on her, LifeNews reported. A police officer wrestled her to the ground and took her into custody. The woman later told police that she was upset over problems with her husband, the newspaper added. The motive for the killing is unknown and the woman is undergoing psychiatric testing to see if she is mentally sound or aware of the crime she had committed, authorities said. The phrase Allahu Akbar, Arabic for God is great, began trending on Russian social media after the incident, the BBC reports. Russia has a recent history of violent Islamist attacks, mainly by groups from its restive North Caucasus region. In 2010, two women suicide bombers killed at least 38 people at a Moscow subway station, while a bomb at an airport in Domodedovo in 2011 killed 37 people. U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said a shaky cease-fire in Syria is holding "by and large" despite sporadic fighting that continued across Syria and growing accusations of violations that threatened to derail the truce, now in its third day. Speaking to reporters Monday in Geneva, Ban confirmed receiving a letter from the High Negotiations Committee, the main umbrella opposition group, complaining of continuing violations by the Syrian government and its Russian and Iranian backers. The letter sent Sunday urged the U.N. to help "specify the territory covered by the truce to prevent hostilities in the designated inclusion zones." The Russia-U.S.-brokered cease-fire that went into effect at midnight Friday excludes the Islamic State group as well as al-Qaida's branch in Syria, the Nusra Front. The cease-fire has significantly reduced violence across the war-ravaged country, bringing some respite to civilians particularly from airstrikes. But accusations of breaches by both sides threaten to torpedo the deal, which aims at bringing back the Syrian government and the opposition to peace talks in Geneva next week. Ban told reporters he wanted the cease-fire extended beyond the initial planned duration of two weeks. The U.N. also said it plans to deliver life-saving humanitarian assistance to about 154,000 people living in besieged locations inside Syria over the next five days. A briefing note sent out by OCHA Monday said the assistance will include food, water and sanitation supplies, as well as non-food items and medicine to people trapped in besieged areas. Aid deliveries are a main opposition demand ahead of the planned resumption of Syrian peace talks in Geneva on March 7. An attempt to start indirect peace talks between the sides collapsed earlier this month over escalating violence in the country, including a massive Russian-backed government offensive in Aleppo. Fighting in Aleppo continued Monday. Lebanon's militant Hezbollah group said it had recovered the body of a senior commander, Ali Fayyad, who was killed during fighting in the region. The Shiite group who fights alongside Assad's forces in Syria said body of the commander, locally known as Haj Alaa, was recovered Sunday night in an operation in which Syrian army and Hezbollah special forces took part. Fayyad is a Hezbollah veteran who has led major battles against the Israeli army in south Lebanon. Lebanese media say he was among four Hezbollah fighters killed in Aleppo last week. The opposition on Sunday reported air raids on several parts of northern Syria and warned that continued violations would jeopardize the planned resumption of U.N.-brokered peace talks. Riad Hijab, who heads the HNC, a Saudi-backed opposition group, said in the statement directed to Ban that Russian, Iranian and government forces have not stopped hostilities since the truce went into effect. Hijab said there had been 24 cases of shelling and five cases of ground attacks. He added that Russian warplanes carried out 26 airstrikes on Sunday alone targeting rebels that are abiding by the truce. The French foreign minister called for a meeting "without delay" of a task force to monitor a cessation of hostilities in Syria following reports of air strikes targeting the moderate opposition. Jean-Marc Ayrault made the comments Monday shortly before addressing a meeting of the Human Rights Council in Geneva. U.N. special envoy for Syria Staffan de Mistura has already been planning a meeting of the task force, led by the United States and Russia, later in the day. Ayrault told reporters he planned to discuss the "attacks including by air" with de Mistura and Ban. Critics say Russia and Syrian forces have been targeting the moderate opposition. Blink Fitness Launches New Marketing Campaign, Every Body Happy Campaign challenges fitness norms by celebrating diverse body types February 29, 2016 // Franchising.com // NEW YORK Today Blink Fitness, the premium-quality, value-based gym unveils their new ad campaign, Every Body Happy. The spirited campaign, which features a variety of confident and happy gym goers who come in all shapes and sizes, taps into a larger cultural shift currently happening - not only are different body types being acknowledged, but theyre being celebrated as well. Instead of blanketing the market with aspirational images of perfect bodies and touting lofty weight-loss goals, Blink has chosen to represent the real, diverse range of people who belong to their clubs and who derive joy and confidence through exercise. This is something no other fitness brand is doing. Blink Fitness has long been committed to changing the rhetoric around fitness. The brands DNA is rooted in their philosophy, Mood Above Muscle, which places less focus on physical results and more on the mood-boosting potential that comes from being active. A survey commissioned by Blink Fitness and conducted online by Harris Poll this month showed that 82% of Americans feel it is more important for them to feel good than to look good. Similarly, 90% of Americans who say they exercise, identified their top three benefits from working out as non-physical, stating it makes them healthier (49%), makes them feel good (35%), and it helps them deal with stress/anxiety (24%). These results ladder back to Blinks Feel Good Experience, which comes to life in clubs through five pillars: friendly and respectful staff, clean facilities, open and bright design, motivating music, and affordable personal training - all to ensure members leave the gym feeling better than when they walked in. These survey results confirmed we were onto something, said Ellen Roggemann, VP of Marketing for Blink Fitness. Blink stands for something different and offers a more universally relatable approach to fitness, which this campaign represents. Fit looks different on everyone and we celebrate that. Beyond the overarching platform for the Every Body Happy campaign, supporting language encourages confidence and deflates industry norms. Copy includes: Feeling good is the new looking good; Do it for the mood, not the mirror; and Forget before and after. Focus on here and now. Every Body Happy images feature real people illustrated by artist Benjamin Wachenje, who has developed national campaigns for BBC, MTV, Levis, and more. The campaign also features digital video content that celebrates the booties, arms and bellies of all body types. Survey results also showed that 71% of Americans dont relate to fitness ads or magazine covers because the people in those images dont have their body type. Todays consumers are smart, said Paul Parton, Founding Partner, The Brooklyn Brothers - the creative agency behind this campaign. Marketing maneuvers with too-good-to-be-true solutions are not what people respond to anymore. Blink has always been vocal about their unique stance on exercise, and we wanted these ads to feature a range of body types, all inherently confident and owning their strength because fitness is for everybody. The launch of the Every Body Happy campaign is happening at an exciting time for the company, which currently has more than 50 clubs open or in development throughout the Tri-State area, with goals of reaching 300 clubs by 2020 through their new franchising program that launched late last year. As of this January, Blink signed on their first two franchisees. About Blink Fitness Founded in 2011, Blink Fitness is a premium quality, value-based fitness brand with more than 50 locations open or in development throughout New York and New Jersey. Blink Fitness puts Mood Above Muscle by ensuring that each club employs the companys signature Feel Good Experience that highlights enthusiastic staff members, a clean environment, an open, spacious, and colorful design, energizing music and fitness training that is motivating and affordable. For more information about Blink, visit blinkfitness.com. Franchising details are available on blinkfranchising.com. Survey Methodology This survey was conducted online within the United States by Harris Poll on behalf of Blink Fitness from February 18-22, 2016 among 2,115 adults ages 18 and older, among which 1,844 ever exercise. This online survey is not based on a probability sample and therefore no estimate of theoretical sampling error can be calculated. For complete survey methodology, including weighting variables, please contact bb@sharpthink.com. SOURCE Blink Fitness Contact: Beverly Basiga Sharp Communications (212) 829.0002 x. 113 bb@sharpthink.com ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus Brass Tap Round Rock Voted Best Beer Bar In Texas Upscale Craft Beer Bar Represents the Lone Star State in CraftBeer.coms 51 Best Beer Bars in America ROUND ROCK, TEXAS (PRWEB) February 29, 2016 - After battling it out against Americas best beer bars, it was announced that The Brass Tap in Round Rock, Texas has emerged victorious as the Best Beer Bar hailing from the Lone Star State in CraftBeer.coms 51 Best Beer Bars in America poll. The upscale craft beer and wine bar was crowned the decisive Texas favorite after more than 9,000 participants casted votes on a CraftBeer.com survey between August and December of last year. The Brass Tap team found out they had taken the top spot in Texas, beating out the big city bars, weeks ago, but had to remain tight-lipped until the February 23rd release. We are truly honored by this recognition of our craft beer bar, said Steve Sheets, owner of The Brass Tap in Round Rock. What makes this honor so special is that we were selected based on the nomination and votes of our customers. Thats pretty amazing when you consider that we were competing against all of the great craft beer bars in Dallas, Houston, Austin and the rest of the state of Texas. Brass Tap owner Steve Sheets teamed up with his son to bring the brand to the Austin area three years ago. Since then theyve drawn a steady crowd of Central Texass most enthusiastic beer lovers with more than 60 draughts and 200 bottled and canned varieties. Late this spring, Sheets will open his second Brass Tap location in Austin at the popular Domain shopping center. Steve is such a great brand ambassador and is leading the charge of The Brass Tap development throughout the Austin area, said Brass Tap CEO Chris Elliott. Widely regarded as one of the top craft beer cities in America, its quite an honor for Steve and The Brass Tap to be recognized this way by local beer enthusiasts. With more than 30 open units and 50 upcoming openings, The Brass Tap is positioned to quadruple in size in the Southeast in the next few years. About The Brass Tap Founded by Jeff Martin in 2008, Tampa, Florida based The Brass Tap is an upscale craft beer and wine bar celebrated for its more than 300 varieties of imports, local craft beers and a large selection of premium wines and cigars. With more than 30 open units and 50 upcoming openings, The Brass Tap is positioned to quadruple in size in the Southeast and beyond. In June 2012, Beef 'O' Brady's acquired the rights to franchise The Brass Tap. For more info, visit http://www.brasstapbeerbar.com. SOURCE The Brass Tap Contact: Lauren Boukas No Limit Agency +1 (312) 526-3996 ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus In this rapidly developing topic, we aim to provide you with the ability to share your experiences, questions and news with us. Simply choose one of the options below and your story may be featured in this section. Learn More Essential Businesses Share Your Story Ask Questions Submit News Subscribe Juice It Up! Saves The Day With Raw Juice And Shot Combo Premier Raw Juice and Smoothie Chain Introduces its Seasonal Mighty C Duo February 29, 2016 // Franchising.com // IRVINE, California Juice It Up!, one of the nations leading raw juice bar and hand-crafted smoothie franchises, has introduced kryptonite for the common cold with its delicious Mighty C Juice and the Mighty C Shot combo. Whether enjoyed separately, or combined for a powerful immunity boost, this dynamic duo is packed with powerful antioxidants to strengthen and protect guests immune systems during the cold and flu season. Available for a limited time, The Mighty C Juice and Shot feature a healthful and uplifting blend of raw ingredients including sweet pineapples, fragrant oranges, crisp apples, red seedless grapes, raw ginger and fresh lemon juice. Through March 14, guests who present this coupon will receive a free Mighty C Shot with the purchase of a Mighty C Juice. Juice It Up! is committed to supporting our guests active and healthy lifestyle year round, but its even more important to take care of ourselves when were more susceptible to illness, like during the indiscriminating cold and flu season, said Frank Easterbrook, President & CEO. We know our guests lead busy lives and getting sick can be a major setback, so we designed our Mighty C Juice and Shot duo as a highly functional immunity-boosting option made from a nutrient rich blend of fresh ingredients. Available for a limited time, the refreshing Mighty C Duo, which is dairy-free, gluten-free and an excellent source of Vitamin C, is featured on Juice It Up!s menu alongside fresh-squeezed functional raw juices, blended-to-order real fruit and veggie smoothies, and nutrient-rich bowls loaded with superfruits Acai and Pitaya. With the recently-introduced Smoothie Bowls, guests can transform their favorite Classic and Veggie Smoothie into a nourishing meal replacement, topped with fresh bananas, granola and a drizzle of honey. To supercharge any bowl or smoothie, guests can ask to Make it Green by blending in raw kale and spinach to add an extra dose of fiber, vitamins and minerals. For the full menu and complete nutritional information, visit www.juiceitup.com. About Juice It Up! Juice It Up!, a leading raw juice bar and hand-crafted smoothie franchise, specializes in delicious and functional fresh-squeezed juices, blended-to-order real fruit smoothies and nutrient-rich options such as Acai and Pitaya Bowls. Founded in 1995, the Irvine, California-based lifestyle brand is focused on providing its guests with a variety of great-tasting, better-for-you food and drink choices designed with personal wellness in mind. With more than 80 locations across California, Arizona, New Mexico, Oregon, and Texas, the company is showcasing a new restaurant design, a heavier focus on the growing demand for raw juice options and a menu refresh that reflects the brands active personality and motto to Live Life Juiced! An established lifestyle brand with unparalleled experience in the raw juice bar industry, Juice It Up! is poised for aggressive expansion throughout the U.S. For more information, visit www.juiceitupfranchise.com. Juice It Up! Social Media Pages: Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/juiceitup/. Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/juiceitup/. Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/juiceituphq/. Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/juiceitup/. YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/juiceitupcorp/. SOURCE Juice It Up! Media Contact: Chelsea McKinney Powerhouse Public Relations (949) 261-2216 Chelsea@powrhousepr.com ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus PostNet Raises $55,000 for Charity through #PostNetMerrymakers Campaign Achieved Fundraising Goal while Encouraging Acts of Kindness across the Country February 29, 2016 // Franchising.com // DENVER PostNet, the industry leader in providing customized print, marketing and shipping solutions for businesses and consumers, has achieved its goal of raising $55,000 for their charity partners, JDRF; The ALS Association; United Way; and ASPCA, through its #PostNetMerrymakers campaign. Held throughout the month of December 2015, PostNet created the #PostNetMerrymakers campaign to raise funds and awareness for four meaningful charities, while encouraging acts of kindness across the country. PostNet locations across the country joined forces in this one-of-a-kind event to spread awareness for this philanthropic campaign by encouraging their customers to perform and share good deeds on social media using the campaign hashtag. For every share on social media, PostNet donated $3 to the charities. To encourage campaign participation, PostNet also gave away a $5,000 holiday shopping spree and donated an additional $5,000 to the winners choice of one of the four charities. PostNet is a purpose-driven organization that is passionate about giving back. It is instilled in our culture and our history, says Rachel Reynolds, Director of Marketing at PostNet. With support from our franchisees and customers, we were able to achieve our fundraising goal and are overjoyed to know what a positive impact this will have on these charities. For more information about PostNet or to find a location nearest you, go to www.postnet.com. About PostNet Founded in 1992, PostNet is the leading business-to-business franchise known for providing personalized, business-enhancing print, marketing and shipping solutions. Locally owned and operated PostNet locations offer full-service digital printing; direct mail; signage; document binding and finishing; graphic design; and ancillary business services, like private mailbox rental and more. They also offer professional packaging services and shipping with UPS, FedEx, DHL and the U.S. Postal Service. In addition, with the brands bricks and clicks business model, each PostNet franchise has both a physical storefront in the community as well as an Online Print Center, offering customers the benefits of online transactions and face-to-face service. PostNet has nearly 700 franchise locations across 10 countries. PostNet has won numerous awards and recognitions including: 2016 Entrepreneur Franchise 500; 2016 Franchise Gator Top 100; 2013 Top 10 Best Franchise for Veterans by Military Times; 2013 Satisfaction Award from Franchise Business Review; and 2013 Mail Innovations Award from the U.S. Postal Service. For more information about PostNet services, go to www.postnet.com; for information about owning a PostNet franchise, visit www.postnetfranchise.com. SOURCE PostNet Media Contact: Kayla Atwell Katwell@fishmanpr.com ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus Red Mango Opens Fourth Location in San Miguel, El Salvador Chain earns #1 Spot to Eat Healthy in El Salvador February 29, 2016 // Franchising.com // DALLAS Red Mango is celebrating healthy growth and rising popularity in Central America with the recent opening of the fourth location in El Salvador in the city of San Miguel. The chain also was honored in the January issue of Buen Provecho magazine, calling Red Mango the #1 Spot to Eat Healthy in El Salvador. Red Mango in El Salvador has been a huge pioneer in offering a delicious and healthy menu of frozen yogurt, smoothies, juices, flatbreads, wraps and coffee using the highest quality ingredients, said Joaquin Palomo, founder and CEO of Nutrisal, the area developer for Red Mango in El Salvador. In addition to the recent opening, he plans to expand the brand further throughout Central America and into Columbia in the near future. Consumers in Central America are embracing the importance of living a balanced lifestyle with healthy eating habits and see Red Mango as their best option, Palomo said. His observations support a 2015 Nielsen survey of healthy eating trends around the world where consumers responded from more than 60 countries and pointed to a growing desire for fresh, natural and minimally processed foods. We project strong growth to continue as consumers on a global scale demand healthier dining options that are both great tasting and nutritious, said Jim Notarnicola, Chief Marketing Officer at BRIX Holdings, the parent company for Red Mango. Red Mango is expanding at a strong pace on the international stage, and the construction and design of our locations are as beautiful as the expanded menu. For additional information about domestic and international franchise opportunities, visit www.redmangofranchise.info. About Red Mango Based in Dallas and with more than 300 locations across the U.S., Mexico, El Salvador and Uruguay, Red Mango is a rapidly-expanding retailer of all-natural frozen yogurt, light foods and fresh cold-squeezed juices. Red Mango serves fresh, cold-squeezed juices made with raw, never heated whole fruits and vegetables, sandwiches and salads under 500 calories, fresh fruit smoothies, and uniquely delicious all-natural frozen yogurt fortified with live and active probiotic cultures like GanedenBC30 (Bacillus coagulans GBI-30, 6086). Red Mango is a portfolio company of BRIX Holdings, LLC, a Dallas-based multi brand franchising company specializing in chains with superior products and attractive growth prospects. More information about Red Mango is available at www.redmangousa.com. Visit Red Mango on Facebook at www.facebook.com/redmango or on Twitter at www.twitter.com/redmango. Franchising information is available at redmangofranchise.info or 1(877) 457-8145. SOURCE Red Mango Media Contact: Lindsey Young 214-679-7996 Lindsey@bizcompr.com ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus Ruby Tuesday Inc. Names Mike Ellis Chief Development Officer MARYVILLE, TN - February 29, 2016 - (BUSINESS WIRE) - Ruby Tuesday, Inc. (NYSE:RT) today announced the appointment of Mike Ellis to the position of Chief Development Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Ellis has more than 30 years restaurant industry experience and 24 years of development experience with a specialization in food and restaurant concepts from limited to full service. In his role as Chief Development Officer, he will be responsible for all aspects of development for Ruby Tuesday including both company and franchise growth. Mikes significant development experience coupled with his deep knowledge of the restaurant industry makes him uniquely qualified to help lead the expansion of the brand in new and existing markets, JJ Buettgen, Chairman of the Board, President, and CEO, commented. He is a proven development leader who has successfully achieved significant growth for a wide range of national restaurant concepts and we are thrilled to welcome him to the Ruby Tuesday management team. Mr. Ellis most recently held the position of Chief Development Officer for Einstein Noah Restaurant Group where he was responsible for all aspects of development for the Einstein Brothers Bagels and Noahs New York Bagels brands. Prior to that role, he served as Chief Development Officer of OCharleys Inc., as well as senior development positions at BP Products North America, Carlson Restaurants Worldwide, Burger King Inc., Darden Restaurants Inc., and DF&R Restaurants, Inc. He received an AA in Political Science from Delta College. Mr. Ellis stated, I am thrilled to join such a passionate management team that is wholeheartedly dedicated to creating a place where guests can truly enjoy high quality and fresh American Dining offerings in a relaxed environment. I look forward to working with this talented team of individuals as well as existing and new franchisees to help achieve the development goals we set forth for Ruby Tuesday. About Ruby Tuesday, Inc. Ruby Tuesday, Inc. owns and franchises Ruby Tuesday brand restaurants. As of December 1, 2015, there were 734 Ruby Tuesday restaurants in 44 states, 12 foreign countries, and Guam. Of those restaurants, we owned and operated 656 Ruby Tuesday restaurants and franchised 78 Ruby Tuesday restaurants, comprised of 28 domestic and 50 international restaurants. Our corporate-owned and operated restaurants are concentrated primarily in the Southeast, Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and Midwest of the United States, which we consider to be our core markets. For more information about Ruby Tuesday, please visit www.rubytuesday.com. Ruby Tuesday, Inc. is traded on the New York Stock Exchange (Symbol: RT). SOURCE Ruby Tuesday, Inc. Contact: Christine Beggan Media Relations ICR 203-682-8200 RubyTuesday@icrinc.com ### Comments: Please enable JavaScript to view the comments powered by Disqus. Disqus Making Hydrochloric Acid from Household Ingredients I used to do this when I was young. Im uncertain now: could it not be consider... WOODBRIDGE An Army staff sergeant assigned to the Pentagon was arrested on murder and other charges in the death of a police officer and another person, authorities said Sunday. Ronald Williams Hamilton, 32, is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer. He is accused of shooting and killing Officer Ashley Guindon after she answered a domestic violence call at the Hamilton home Saturday evening. Two other officers were hospitalized with injuries. Hamilton is an active duty Army staff sergeant assigned to the Joint Staff Support Center at the Pentagon, according to Cindy Your, a Defense Information Systems Agency spokeswoman based at Fort Meade, Md. Guindon, 28, had gone through training with the department last year before leaving for personal reasons. She rejoined the department this year and Saturday was her first day on patrol, according to Police Chief Stephan Hudson. We were struck by her passion to do this job, Hudson said at a news conference Sunday. She did share with us when we rehired her that she felt like she wanted to do this job. She couldnt get it out of her blood. She clearly had a passion to serve others in a way that went beyond herself. Guindon was a former Marine Corps reservist and had a masters degree in forensic science, according to Hudson. She held a bachelors degree in aeronautics with minors in psychology, homeland security and aviation safety from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, the school said. A picture of Guindon was posted to the departments Twitter page on Friday with a tweet that read, Welcome Officers Steven Kendall & Ashley Guindon who were sworn in today & begin their shifts this weekend. Be Safe! The shooting occurred Saturday evening at Hamiltons home in Woodbridge. Hudson said Hamilton and his wife, Crystal, were arguing and she called 911. Crystal Hamilton, 29, was fatally shot by her husband before police arrived, Hudson said. The officers were shot shortly after their arrival, and when additional officers arrived, Hamilton surrendered and came out the front door of the house. Police said their 11-year-old son was at home at the time of the shootings. He is now being cared for by relatives. Police recovered two guns from the scene: a handgun and a rifle. The injured officers were identified as Jesse Hempen, 31, an eight-year veteran of department; and David McKeown, 33, a 10-year veteran. They are expected to recover, Hudson said. Details about their injuries were not released. The death of Guindon was just the latest tragedy to strike the family. Her father, David, committed suicide the day after he returned home from Iraq, where he served with the New Hampshire Air National Guard. He was buried with full military honors on Aug. 26, 2004. He came home and took his own life, said Dorothy Guindon, Ashleys grandmother. Ashley was his only child. She was born in Springfield, Mass. The family later moved to Merrimack, N.H., according to her grandmother. This is really a shock to us, Dorothy Guindon said. Ashley was such a nice person. A 2005 graduate of Merrimack High School, Ashley was remembered in a letter to the school board and staff by the school principal, Kenneth Johnson. Our thoughts and prayers are with her family at this time. We will have a moment of silence for her on Monday, and we will remember her on graduation day as well, he wrote. Officer Brandon Carpenter at the countys adult detention center said Hamilton is being held without bond at the jail on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer, first-degree murder, two counts of malicious assault and two counts of use of a firearm firearm during a felony. Hamilton is scheduled to be arraigned Monday morning. At Inova Fairfax Hospital, where the three officers were flown by helicopter after the shooting, more than 100 patrol cars lined the roads outside early Sunday morning to stand vigil and escort Guindons body to the medical examiner. The shooting occurred in the Lake Ridge neighborhood, on a curving street with $500,000 suburban houses with brick and siding exteriors, manicured lawns and two-car garages about a five-minute drive from the county office building. Learning Toy Company Click-A-Brick Praises Mattel's Move To Meet The Threat Of 3D Printing Head-On The team at learning toy company Click-A-Brick has applauded Mattel's move to introduce a 3D printer for children to print toys, saying it makes more sense to embrace the technology than to ignore it, even though it is a threat to the toy industry. -- Learning toy company Click-A-Brick applauds toy giant Mattel for meeting what it believes is a threat to the toy industry from 3D printing head on with the release of its own 3D printer that allows kids to easily make their own toys. Mattel unveiled its 3D printer, dubbed "ThingMaker" at the recent North American International Toy Fair in New York. A 3D printing app allows kids to use the printer with a simple interface that makes the process easier than most 3D printers on the market, as reported by TechCrunch. It includes a number of character templates and tutorials that make using the app and printer intuitive for people, even young children, but it also allows for toy design from scratch. The toys are printed using a hard PLA filament in separate pieces that snap together to create moveable joints so childen can play with their creations. Kids can watch the printing process through a clear window. "In today's digital age, it's more important than ever for families to transcend the digital world and make their ideas real," Aslan Appleman, senior director at Mattel, said in a statement. "ThingMaker pushes the boundaries of imaginative play, giving families countless ways to customize their toys and let their creativity run wild." Jason Smith and Georg de Gorostiza, co-founders of learning toy company Click-A-Brick, which recently released the 30-piece building block set Sandy Sidekicks, say it's a smart and bold move for a toy company to embrace 3D printing, as the pair of entrepreneurs see it as a threat to the toy industry. "At first, we were a little surprised to see Mattel had come out with a 3D printer that encourages children to print their own toys, but after thinking about it a bit, it actually makes perfect sense," Smith said. "The worst thing an industry that is threatened by a new technology can do is take the 'ostrich approach' and ignore that technology altogether. Ignoring a new threat just makes it easier to succumb to it once it's too big to ignore. With 3D printing still in its infancy and seen as more of a novelty at this point, we think it was a smart move on Mattel's part to go ahead and align their brand with it early on." The team at Click-A-Brick say Mattel has less to worry about from 3D printing, as its toy lineup primarily consists of toys with moving parts like action figures and vehicles that are difficult to replicate in a 3D printer. Even though it is possible to 3D print action figures and dolls, the entrepreneurial pair say, those toys won't be the same quality as factory-made ones. Toys that are made from solid plastic, like most building toys, will have more to worry about from 3D printing, the co-founders note. For more information about us, please visit http://www.clickabricktoys.net/ Contact Info: Name: Rob Swystun Organization: Click-A-Brick Toys LLC Phone: 855-976-3664 Source: http://marketersmedia.com/learning-toy-company-click-a-brick-praises-mattels-move-to-meet-the-threat-of-3d-printing-head-on/105214 Release ID: 105214 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sorry that press release couldn't be found. [ Vist our sister sites: Linux news | Bible Study Tool ] Site design and layout copyright 2005-2015 Free Press Release Center Online Car Care Detailing Products & Cleaning Kits New Site Launched A new website has been launched by C&S Car Care Products, as a one-stop shop for car enthusiasts, detailers and automobile hobbyists, offering premium US brands and popular, best-selling car care and cleaning products. -- Car enthusiasts, detailers and automobile hobbyists can now find premium US brands and popular, best-selling car care and cleaning products on the recently launched website, C&S Car Care Products. The online business offers everything in one place that car owners require to maintain the cleanliness and appearance of their vehicles. For more information and product details visit: http://cscarcareproducts.com. Automobiles have always been a huge industry in the US since day one. Census figures estimate that there are around 1.8 cars per household (2013), around 17.5 million new vehicles alone were sold in 2015 and more than 212 million Americans are licensed drivers. Going hand in hand with America's love affair with the car, is its pride in keeping a car clean and detailed. C&S Car Care caters to any car owner that is diligent in the care and upkeep of the condition of their car, or is passionate about keeping its appearance spotless. The many types of car owners include first-time car owners, family vehicle, business vehicle, weekend car, hobby car and classic car owners, and more. C&S Car Care offers a massive range of car care products for exteriors and interiors, leathers, vinyls and fabrics, such as: cleaning kits, waxers, cleaners, foam guns, cloths towels and chamois, tire and wheel care, car wash equipment, electric buffers for achieving a high-sheen, scratch-free surface on Du-co, and even handheld dryers for motorcycle and car owners, that remove water from hard to reach areas by towel, ensuring absolute streak-free finishes. The varying cleaning, buffing, waxing and polishing needs of car enthusiasts who take a vested interest in the immaculate upkeep of their vehicles are met by C&S Car Care, by offering an extensive selection of well-known, premium quality brands; mostly made in the USA or by US companies, with the exception of a couple of European brands and some of the microfiber cloth products. The US brands offered by C&S Car Care include: Booyah Wheel Cleaner; Chamberlain's, Denezen, Beesbutter, Leather Honey; Jax Wax; Meguiar's, 303, Armor All, Chemical Guys, Atsko, Adam's Polishes, Griot's Garage, Mothers, Turtle Wax, Blue Magic, Angelus, Optimum No Rinse, 3M Automotive, Mr Hardwater, Autoright, The Metro Blaster SideKick and Viking microfiber, to name a few. Some of the best selling non-US made products include: Man Sham, Kingdom's Microfiber, Heininger, Carrand, Camco, Sonax and Rupes. For those not interested in doing all the hard work themselves, there are over 60,000 car wash and auto detailing businesses in the US alone (IBISWorld, November 2015), that they can outsource the services to. For more information about us, please visit http://www.cscarcareproducts.com Contact Info: Name: Chris Mcgill Organization: Cs car care products Address: 101 Sunflower Dr, Liverpool, NY Phone: 315-480-7454 Release ID: 105327 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Phoenix Handyman Services Free DIY Home improvement Weekly Workshops Launched Phoenix, Arizona-based family owned handyman service, Done Now Handyman, a business specializing in all types of residential and commercial install, repair and renovation projects has launched weekly DIY and home improvement workshops, including child-friendly projects, at its premises every Saturday. -- Family owned business Done Now Handyman, servicing residential and commercial properties in Arizona's Phoenix valley region has introduced free weekly how-to and DIY workshops every Saturday from 10am to noon, including many projects suitable for children with adult supervision. The instant popularity of these workshops at Done Now Handyman's Whispering Wind Drive store location means that booking is essential. For more information about the workshops and services visit: http://donenowhandyman.com. Founded by owner John Courgar in 1995, Done Now Handyman has over 20 years' experience with home repairs and remodeling in the Phoenix metro and surrounding area. Since its inception, the business operates solely by word of mouth referrals. John himself performs most of the work on Done Now Handyman projects, with the exception of calling in specialist tradespeople for certain types of work. Work is competitively priced and quoted in detail per project instead of per hour, eliminating the prospect of hidden costs and fees, which customers appreciate and hence the referral network is so strong. Done Now Handyman has recently introduced free workshops each Saturday from 10am to noon at its premises in Whispering Wind Drive, covering a huge range of DIY and home improvement topics, such as how to clean air ducts or how to insulate doors and windows to reduce energy bills. Also included are projects for children, accompanied by adults, such as how make a bird bath, a tree house, wooden toys as gifts and so on. According to owner John, "The weekly workshops have been a real hit, so we strongly advise people to call us on 602-313-1946 and reserve a spot as places are limited". Done Now Handyman's service capabilities, for both residential and commercial, are wide, including drywall installation and repair, bathroom remodeling, general remodeling, painting, plumbing, electrical, tiling and flooring. It also offers repair services for decking, fences, and garage doors. Done Now Handyman offers third party escrow billing for larger jobs and 30 day billing to property managers. The main areas of service are Phoenix, Scottsdale, Glendale, Gilbert, Mesa, Tempe, Chandler, Goodyear, Surprise, Glendale, Sun City, Surprise and Paradise Valley. Visit the website for further information or to request a quote. For more information about us, please visit http://donenowhandyman.com Contact Info: Name: Chris Winters Organization: Done Now Handyman Address: 2020 W Whispering Wind Dr. Suite 118, Phoenix, AZ Phone: 601-313-1949 Release ID: 105329 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) London Small Business Digital & Ecommerce Specialist Launches Free Consultations London based consultancy, Prime Digital Marketing, a provider of online business, marketing support and website and ecommerce improvement services to small, medium and start up businesses throughout the UK, is now offering free 30-minute consultations to businesses every Friday. -- London based consultancy, Prime Digital Marketing, provider of online business and marketing support services to small and start up businesses throughout the UK, is now providing free 30-minute consultations to businesses every Friday. More information is available on the website: https://primedigitalmarketing.com. Prime Digital Marketing is offering businesses free 30-minute digital, Internet marketing or ecommerce consultations, available on Fridays only, valid one per business, to speak with experienced professionals in confidence about their online business. Appointments can be made via the website. With so many entrepreneurs and small and medium sized businesses conducting their business online, Prime Digital Marketing established itself to offer them services for online marketing and ecommerce. The company has spent 15 years' providing one-on-one collaboration with its customers, providing tools, marketing information and individual support to start-ups and existing businesses that help them mine their online channel. Many online businesses find themselves becoming overwhelmed with the sheer volume of knowledge required to ensure the correct set-up, effectiveness and reachability of their websites and ecommerce systems. Online digital and ecommerce consultancies such as Prime Digital Marketing are a great solution in terms of outsourcing these functions to, allowing businesses to focus on their core business and continue doing what they know best. In an ideal situation a business would utilise these services from the outset, however these can be employed at any stage. Prime Digital Marketing provides consulting services, information guides and solutions for businesses' websites and ecommerce systems. The information guides look at domain authority, web hosting, infrastructure and email, and help improve features such as SEO, keyword selection, engagement, social media, reputation management, analytics, mobile compatibility, paid advertising, target testing, content management and much more. On the ecommerce side they also assess items such as shopping carts, ordering, shipping information, international translations, checkouts coupons, product reviews, to name a few. Prime Digital Marketing also provides a 'net results' service, including a visitor insight performance report for website and ecommerce functions, aimed at highlighting areas that can be improved to increase profitability. The other benefit this provides for Prime Digital Marketing's customers is that they can have on-the-spot reports provided to them whenever needed, without having to purchase and install expensive software that requires ongoing monitoring. For more information about us, please visit http://www.primedigitalmarketing.com Contact Info: Name: Michael Boyle Organization: Prime Digital Marketing Ltd Address: 71-75 Shelton Street, London Phone: 7914472453 Release ID: 105326 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Xudge Undergoes Total Relaunch Of Astrological Compatibility Website Xudge has completely rebuilt its website from the ground up to create a new way of interacting with their content and discovering the astrological signs most compatible with one another. Mountain View, CA --February 29, 2016 (FPRC) -- Western Astrological signs have existed since the 2nd century AD, and are based on even more ancient traditions, when the ancient Greeks first saw a pattern between the movements of the stars and tendencies on earth. Individuals ever since have known their star sign and seen certain traits associated with it. Xudge is a website that helps people discover their astrological compatibility with other signs, together with their own traits and more. It has undergone a comprehensive transformation of their online presence to make discovering this information as fun and engaging as possible for users. The new website is fully responsive and displays beautifully on any device size, from huge monitors to small mobile devices. The website makes use of slick graphical elements and high quality imagery to make the content clearly accessible: individuals need only select their star sign to see a full list of compatibility reports with every other sign. The reports, as mentioned here, explain in detail how the forces acting on each star sign, including the elements and the ruling planets of both signs, will cause them to interact with one another, identifying key problems and opportunities in the relationship so they can be either dealt with or avoided, depending on the individuals preference. A spokesperson for Xudge explained, The website design has been recreated from the ground up with the latest disciplines and approaches in mind, using a beautiful presentation that puts the content first to help make our knowledge more accessible than ever. Thanks to on page SEO and mobile compatibility we will be more discoverable than ever before, while we are also enriching our content with further editorials and insights into the broader world of astrology and how it can influence relationships. The website is the beginning of big things for our site in 2016, so individuals should check back regularly for new updates. About Xudge: Xudge is the best place online to check the horoscopic compatibility of an individuals sign with their partner's sign. Users can also find information about the best & worst matches, elements, rulers (planets) and qualities of individuals according to their signs. The site has been fully transformed to become the best online authority for astrological information. For more information please visit: http://www.xudge.com/ Send an email to Laura Martins of r +1 (855) 976-9550 Recent Press Releases By The Same User ShapeHost Launches New Spring Sale Offering Savings Of Up To 35% On VPS Packages (Tue 8th Mar 16) Paypro Finance Launches their Consumer Financing for Small Business Program (Mon 7th Mar 16) Kuber Ventures Publishes New Infographic To Show Difference Between EIS for Pensions and SIPP (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Pregnancy Exercise Publishes New Guide Into Training For Fitness While Pregnant (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Centex Hosting Launches Newly Redesigned Website To Herald Expansion Into VPS Hosting (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Royal Cliff Receives ISO 22000 Food Safety Management Certification (Wed 2nd Mar 16) Portugal Power Market 2016 Industry Analysis, Research & Forecast 2022 Global Market News has released report on Portugal Power Market 2016. Deerfield Beach, FL, United States of America February 29, 2016 /GlobalMarketNews.us/ Portugal Power Market Outlook to 2030 : Portugal Power provides an detailed overview of Portugal Power scenario. This report on Portugal Power also includes an review of trial numbers as well as their (Portugal Power) average enrollment in uppermost/top countries which are conducted worldwide. Portugal Power report also covers disease clinical trials by country (G7 & E7), sponsor type, region, trial, research, review, Size status as well as end points status. Report Portugal Power also Includes prominent drugs for in-progress trials (Note: based on number of ongoing trials and reviews). Get Sample Copy of Report Here : http://www.marketresearchstore.com/report/portugal-power-market-outlook-to-2025-update-2015-34674#RequestSample The report covers detailed analysis and forecast of important market dynamics of Portugal Power industry including market drivers and restraints. It also evaluates future growth & demand opportunities for its stake holders. The report throws light on upstream and downstream markets of Portugal Power industry. The report provides detailed analysis of production price, production capacity, production volume, production value, production cost or profit margin and supply & demand analysis/forecast. Scope of Portugal Power Report:- This report includes a snapshot of all over the world clinical trials and reviews landscape on Portugal Power scenario. Report on Portugal Power also provides high level data related to the Global clinical research by country (G7 & E7), sponsor type, region, trial, review, size status as well as end points status on Portugal Power scenario Report reviews top companies involved in Portugal Power as well as provides e all trials (Trial title, Phase, Research and Status) pertaining to the company on Portugal Power scenario. This report provides all the unaccomplished trials on Portugal Power scenario (Withdrawn, Terminated) with reason for unaccomplishment on Portugal Power. Enquiry Before Purchase Report Here : http://www.marketresearchstore.com/report/portugal-power-market-outlook-to-2025-update-2015-34674#InquiryForBuying About Us: Market Research Store 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 released by reputed private publishers and public organizations. Contact Us: Joel John Deerfield Beach, Florida 33442 United States Toll Free: +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA) Tel: +1-386-310-3803 Web: Market Research Store Email: sales@marketresearchstore.com The post Portugal Power Market 2016 Industry Analysis, Research & Forecast 2022 appeared first on Global Market News. For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Global Retro-Reflective Sensors Market 2016 Industry Size, Trends, Demand Review & Forecast 2025 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Research on Global Quatrz Oscillator Market 2016 Industry Analysis, Review & Forecast 2020 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Private Branch Exchange(PBX) Market 2016 Industry Size, Trends, Research, Demand & Forecast (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Print Mark Sensor Market 2016 Industry Size, Research, Trends, Growth & Analysis 2022 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global OLED Lighting Device Market 2016 Industry Trends, Demand, Analysis & Review Forecast 2020 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Network Card Market 2016 Industry Size, Research, Trends, Demand Review & Forecast 2020 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies Market 2016 Industry Share, Review, Trends, Growth & Analysis Global Market News has released report on Global Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies Market 2016. Deerfield Beach, FL, United States of America February 29, 2016 /GlobalMarketNews.us/ Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies Market Outlook to 2030 : Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies provides an detailed overview of Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies scenario.Financial & Operational Fundamental Analysis and Benchmarking 2016. This report on Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies also includes an review of trial numbers as well as their (Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies) average enrollment in uppermost/top countries which are conducted worldwide. Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies report also covers disease clinical trials by country (G7 & E7), sponsor type, region, trial, research, review, Size status as well as end points status. Report Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies also Includes prominent drugs for in-progress trials (Note: based on number of ongoing trials and reviews). Get Sample Copy of Report Here : http://www.marketresearchstore.com/report/leading-oil-gas-national-oil-companies-2062#RequestSample The report covers detailed analysis and forecast of important market dynamics of Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies industry including market drivers and restraints. It also evaluates future growth & demand opportunities for its stake holders. The report throws light on upstream and downstream markets of Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies industry. The report provides detailed analysis of production price, production capacity, production volume, production value, production cost or profit margin and supply & demand analysis/forecast. Scope of Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies Report:- This report includes a snapshot of all over the world clinical trials and reviews landscape on Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies scenario. Report on Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies also provides high level data related to the Global clinical research by country (G7 & E7), sponsor type, region, trial, review, size status as well as end points status on Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies scenario Report reviews top companies involved in Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies as well as provides e all trials (Trial title, Phase, Research and Status) pertaining to the company on Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies scenario. This report provides all the unaccomplished trials on Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies scenario (Withdrawn, Terminated) with reason for unaccomplishment on Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies. Enquiry Before Purchase Report Here : http://www.marketresearchstore.com/report/leading-oil-gas-national-oil-companies-2062#InquiryForBuying About Us: Market Research Store 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 released by reputed private publishers and public organizations. Contact Us: Joel John Deerfield Beach, Florida 33442 United States Toll Free: +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA) Tel: +1-386-310-3803 Web: Market Research Store Email: sales@marketresearchstore.com The post Global Leading Oil & Gas National Oil Companies Market 2016 Industry Share, Review, Trends, Growth & Analysis appeared first on Global Market News. For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Global Retro-Reflective Sensors Market 2016 Industry Size, Trends, Demand Review & Forecast 2025 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Research on Global Quatrz Oscillator Market 2016 Industry Analysis, Review & Forecast 2020 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Private Branch Exchange(PBX) Market 2016 Industry Size, Trends, Research, Demand & Forecast (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Print Mark Sensor Market 2016 Industry Size, Research, Trends, Growth & Analysis 2022 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global OLED Lighting Device Market 2016 Industry Trends, Demand, Analysis & Review Forecast 2020 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Network Card Market 2016 Industry Size, Research, Trends, Demand Review & Forecast 2020 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Switchgear Market for Power Industry 2016 Industry Size, Research, Trends, Demand Review & Forecast Global Market News has released report on Global Switchgear Market for Power Industry 2016. Deerfield Beach, FL, United States of America February 29, 2016 /GlobalMarketNews.us/ Switchgear Market for Power Industry Outlook to 2030 : Switchgear Market for Power Industry provides an detailed overview of Switchgear Market for Power Industry scenario. This report on Switchgear Market for Power Industry also includes an review of trial numbers as well as their (Switchgear Market for Power Industry) average enrollment in uppermost/top countries which are conducted worldwide. Switchgear Market for Power Industry report also covers disease clinical trials by country (G7 & E7), sponsor type, region, trial, research, review, Size status as well as end points status. Report Switchgear Market for Power Industry also Includes prominent drugs for in-progress trials (Note: based on number of ongoing trials and reviews). Get Sample Copy of Report Here : http://www.marketresearchstore.com/report/switchgear-market-for-power-industry-update-1344#RequestSample The report covers detailed analysis and forecast of important market dynamics of Switchgear Market for Power Industry industry including market drivers and restraints. It also evaluates future growth & demand opportunities for its stake holders. The report throws light on upstream and downstream markets of Switchgear Market for Power Industry industry. The report provides detailed analysis of production price, production capacity, production volume, production value, production cost or profit margin and supply & demand analysis/forecast. Scope of Switchgear Market for Power Industry Report:- This report includes a snapshot of all over the world clinical trials and reviews landscape on Switchgear Market for Power Industry scenario. Report on Switchgear Market for Power Industry also provides high level data related to the Global clinical research by country (G7 & E7), sponsor type, region, trial, review, size status as well as end points status on Switchgear Market for Power Industry scenario Report reviews top companies involved in Switchgear Market for Power Industry as well as provides e all trials (Trial title, Phase, Research and Status) pertaining to the company on Switchgear Market for Power Industry scenario. This report provides all the unaccomplished trials on Switchgear Market for Power Industry scenario (Withdrawn, Terminated) with reason for unaccomplishment on Switchgear Market for Power Industry. Enquiry Before Purchase Report Here : http://www.marketresearchstore.com/report/switchgear-market-for-power-industry-update-1344#InquiryForBuying About Us: Market Research Store 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 released by reputed private publishers and public organizations. Contact Us: Joel John Deerfield Beach, Florida 33442 United States Toll Free: +1-855-465-4651 (USA-CANADA) Tel: +1-386-310-3803 Web: Market Research Store Email: sales@marketresearchstore.com The post Global Switchgear Market for Power Industry 2016 Industry Size, Research, Trends, Demand Review & Forecast appeared first on Global Market News. For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Global Retro-Reflective Sensors Market 2016 Industry Size, Trends, Demand Review & Forecast 2025 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Research on Global Quatrz Oscillator Market 2016 Industry Analysis, Review & Forecast 2020 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Private Branch Exchange(PBX) Market 2016 Industry Size, Trends, Research, Demand & Forecast (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Print Mark Sensor Market 2016 Industry Size, Research, Trends, Growth & Analysis 2022 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global OLED Lighting Device Market 2016 Industry Trends, Demand, Analysis & Review Forecast 2020 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Global Network Card Market 2016 Industry Size, Research, Trends, Demand Review & Forecast 2020 (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Imperial Painters Announces Partnership With National Painting Group Imperial Painters has formed a new partnership with The National Painting Group in order to deliver a superior customer experience to their clients throughout Denver. San Francisco, CA -- February 29, 2016 (FPRC) -- Painting is a fundamental part of making homes and offices habitable and welcoming, and helps people express their own tastes and preferences in the process. Painting seems simple enough until people try it themselves, which is when they learn the many obstacles that need to be overcome, and the techniques required to create a perfect finish. Imperial Painters of Denver Colorado offers an economical alternative, creating a perfect finish for clients. They have just announced a new partnership with the National Painting Group in order to ensure that their customer service is as excellent as their finished work. Imperial Painters are now the fastest interior and exterior painting company in Denver. National Painting Group has years of experience with painting contractors throughout the United States. Their strong focus on customer satisfaction as well as providing a high quality painting service is what sets them apart, and Imperial Painters is excited about partnering with them to deliver the same high quality of experience. The partnership will see Imperials House Painters undergo advanced training in customer service and strategy, helping them master how they approach new and returning clients, and keep them incentivised to not only keep using their services, but to recommend those services to others. A spokesperson for Imperial Painters explained, We believe that this will better help Imperial serve the residents of Denver. We are excited about what the future holds for our company, and this strategic partnership will enable us to go from strength to strength. The National Painting Group already shares our values on creating outstanding results for competitive prices, but will help us improve our already highly personable approach to cover everything customers could think of, and even some things that will be a pleasant surprise when we work together. About Imperial Painters: Imperial Painters are Denver painters who strive provide the best interior and exterior painting services to the residents of Denver. They are staffed by a team of experienced painting contractors who deliver high quality painting services in good time and for great value. The company was established in 2014, and is now one of the fastest growing companies of its kind in Denver, thanks to their commitment to customer experience. For more information please visit: http://imperialpaintersco.com/ Send an email to Joe Bragg of r (415) 632 1664 Recent Press Releases By The Same User ShapeHost Launches New Spring Sale Offering Savings Of Up To 35% On VPS Packages (Tue 8th Mar 16) Paypro Finance Launches their Consumer Financing for Small Business Program (Mon 7th Mar 16) Kuber Ventures Publishes New Infographic To Show Difference Between EIS for Pensions and SIPP (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Pregnancy Exercise Publishes New Guide Into Training For Fitness While Pregnant (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Centex Hosting Launches Newly Redesigned Website To Herald Expansion Into VPS Hosting (Thu 3rd Mar 16) Royal Cliff Receives ISO 22000 Food Safety Management Certification (Wed 2nd Mar 16) ESFS Builds Comprehensive Florida Basement Waterproofing Quote Service Home renovation website ESFS has unveiled a new online quote service for Florida residents. -- The home renovation website ESFS has unveiled a new online quote service for Florida residents seeking Basement Waterproofing contractors. ESFS has partnered with pre-approved, professional Florida basement companies that are able to provide no-obligation quotes from a single online form. "A water-damaged or leaking foundation can be a source of significant stress," emphasised ESFS director Mr. Aird. "Immediate attention is often required to prevent a problem becoming more and more serious and expensive, and the equally stressful process of finding a suitable contractor to tackle the job can combine to make the situation overwhelming." ESFS is a fast and simple way to have the details of a home renovation or repair project sent to multiple local businesses, each of whom can submit a competitive quote to the user. This represents a significant time saving, but also ensures the details given to each contractor are identical, helping ensure quotes are directly comparable. The Foundation Waterproofing project details of a user are entered into a simple form. This concise system collects their contact details, foundation problems and condition, as well as the type of foundation in place, project timeline and any additional requirements or notes that pertain to the user's needs. Equipped with specific information, each local contractor can prepare their quote based precisely on the project at hand. A majority of Florida's residents can access ESFS's Foundation Waterproofing Quote Service, as the website currently has local businesses partners in 126 cities and towns. Large cities such as Miami, smaller ones like Ocala, and other popular locations including Tallahassee are provided for. About ESFS.org ESFS stands for Easy Simple Fast Service and is an online service dedicated to providing customers with no obligation quotes for a variety of services including home repair and additions, interior design and decoration, cleaning, roofing and construction from pre-screened local contractors. For more information about us, please visit http://www.esfs.org Contact Info: Name: Matt Aird Organization: Easy Simple Fast Service Address: www.esfs.org Release ID: 105392 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Webscout Announces Three New Offices in Singapore Webscout announced today that three new centres in Singapore are now available to rent through their online service. -- Webscout announced today that three new centres in Singapore are now available to rent through their online service, including space at buildings in the Central Busines District and on Collier Quay. "We are very excited to be able to announce the availability of new office space for rent in Singapore," said Clare Jones, spokesperson for Webscout. "With today's announcement, Webscout now has fifty office buildings available, which is an important step towards realising our goal of providing the best possible business premises to companies in Singapore." The office buildings available include space in the heart of Singapore's CBD, on Cecil Street, with neighbours that include the Singapore Stock Exchange. The business centre provides modern, furnished office suites complete with a range of business support packages and facilities. With fully equipped conference rooms, an on site gym and restaurant, security personnel and 24 hour access. The second of the new office properties available is a contemporary high-rise office building on Collier Quay, directly above Raffles Place MRT Station. Office facilities include a full IT and communications infrastructure, conferencing suites, dedicated security staff, business lounges, an onsite cafe and fitness centre, kitchen areas, air conditioning and meeting rooms. Another new office centre is situated within the Shenton Way Central Business District on Cecil Street, two minutes walk from Tanjong Pagar MRT station, and provides fully furnished office suites complete with an onsite restaurant, passenger lifts and car parking. A choice of business support packages is available at this centre, to suit individual company needs. "Small to medium sized businesses have been increasing the demand for affordable office space in Singapore with flexible rental terms, and we anticipate that these new buildings will be snapped up in the very near future," concluded Clare Jones. About Singapore Singapore is ranked as the fourth most prominent financial centre in the world and is an international trade centre. The country has been ranked in the top ten in the world for having an open, innovative and competitive economy and is renowned for being friendly to international companies. The modern economy is driven by direct foreign investment and is focused on education and industry, with manufacturing, chemicals and mechanical engineering also playing key roles. Find out more about Webscout's office space in Singapore About Webscout Webscout is an international service dedicated to helping businesses find serviced office space in thousands of locations worldwide. The Webscout.com site offers serviced offices, managed office accommodation, traditional office rental and fully-serviced executive suites in cities in more than thirty countries. For more information about us, please visit http://www.webscout.com Contact Info: Name: Clare Jones Organization: Webscout.com Address: www.webscout.com Phone: 00 44 207 166 7980 Release ID: 105380 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Radiant Insights Predicted that China will Produce 2.82 Million Automotive Diesel Engines in 2016 Radiant Insights has announced the addition of "China Diesel Engine Industry Report 2013-2016" Market Research report to their database -- China Diesel Engine Industry Report 2013-2016 released by Radiant Insight predicts that China will produce 2.82 million automotive diesel engines in 2016. Acting as key roles in China machinery industry, diesel engines have been used in automobiles, agricultural machinery, construction machinery, ships, diesel locomotives, geology, oil drilling rigs, military, general equipment, mobile and backup power plants and other equipment widely. At present, Chinese diesel engines mainly refer to the ones applied to automobiles, ships and agriculture. Browse the Full Automotive Diesel Engines Market - Scenario, Industry Outlook, Share, and Industry analysis To 2016 Report at - http://www.radiantinsights.com/research/china-diesel-engine-industry In 2012, China's automotive diesel engine output and sales volume hit 3,320,805 and 3,395,241 respectively, representing the respective year-on-year decline rate of 7.49% and 9.53%. From January to June of 2013, the output and sales volume were 1,939,237 and 1,952,932 separately, up 10.86% and 6.60% each. In 2012-2013, the growth of the output and sales volume slowed down under the influence of China's macroeconomy. Request a Sample Copy of this Report @ http://www.radiantinsights.com/research/china-diesel-engine-industry#tabs-4 Chinese automotive diesel engine manufacturers are roughly divided into three types: first, the enterprises engaged in the production of a full range of models, such as Yuchai, Wuxi Diesel Engine Works and Dongfeng Cummins; second, the ones focusing on medium and heavy-duty engines (six-cylinder), represented by Weichai Power, Sinotruk Jinan Power and Shanghai Diesel Engine; third, the ones specializing in medium and light-duty engines (4-cylinder), including Yunnei Power, Anhui Quanchai, Chaoyang Diesel, JMC, Weichai Power Yangzhou Diesel Engine and DEUTZ (Dalian) Engine. Browse All Reports of This Category @ http://www.radiantinsights.com/catalog/machines The report mainly contains six chapters and 123 charts, covering output, sales volume and market competition patterns of Chinese automotive and marine diesel engines, as well as revenue, revenue by product, diesel engine output and sales volume, main subsidiaries and the future development strategies of 16 diesel engine manufacturers. About Radiant Insight Radiant Insights is a platform for companies looking to meet their market research and business intelligence requirements. It assist and facilitate organizations and individuals procure market research reports, helping them in the decision making process. The Organization has a comprehensive collection of reports, covering over 40 key industries and a host of micro markets. For more information about us, please visit http://www.radiantinsights.com/research/china-diesel-engine-industry Contact Info: Name: Michelle Thoras Email: sales@radiantinsights.com Organization: Radiant Insights Inc Address: 28 2nd Street, Suite 3036 Phone: 1-415-349-0058 Source: http://marketersmedia.com/radiant-insights-predicted-that-china-will-produce-2-82-million-automotive-diesel-engines-in-2016/105367 Release ID: 105367 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Picture Perfect Lawn Maintenance Now Serving Chesterfield Virginia Picture Perfect Lawn Maintenance (PPLM) is a family-owned company located in central and south side Virginia. Providing quality residential and commercial lawn care and landscaping services since 2005, PPLM is now happy to serve the residents and businesses in Chesterfield Virginia. -- Picture Perfect Lawn Maintenance (PPLM) is happy to bring their premiere residential and commerical lawn care and landscaping services to Chesterfield Virginia. PPLM offers "complete full service" and "A-La-Carte" Chesterfield Virginia Lawn Care and Landscaping services. So whether a homeowner or business owner needs only lawn mowing and trimming, or a lawn fertilization program, or customized landscape design and maintenance services, or customized full service Picture Perfect Lawn Care services--PPLM has a Chesterfield Virginia lawn care and landscaping solution. The Picture Perfect Lawn Service is a customized, complete annual lawn care and maintenance program. Because most lawns are different and have different needs, PPLM professionals customize their Picture Perfect Lawn Service for each Chesterfield Virginia lawn care customer. Although the components and processes may be somewhat different for each lawn, this complete full service program includes custom organic fertilization, aeration, over-seeding, weed, fungus,and insect control, mowing, trimming and pruning. In addition to the lawn care services below, PPLM a professional staff mows the entire yard, does the line trimming around all trees, posts, and fencing, and uses a blade edger to create sharp lines along sidewalks, patios and driveways. The PPLM custom Picture Perfect annual program includes 6 applications. Application One (Recovery) - Introduce living microbes to the soil to increase root stimulation, an organic and synthetic blend of slow and quick release fertilizer to jump start lawns for a quick and sustained green up, post-emergent weed control to kill any winter weeds, and a pre-emergent weed control to help prevent crabgrass and other broad leaf summer weeds. Application Two (Root Developer) - Introduce humic acids to the soil to aid in respiration of micro-organisms and promote absorption of nutrients, an application of fertilizer to make the lawn greener, an application of post-emergent weed control to eliminate and lingering winter of early spring weeds, another round of pre-emergent weed control to further aid in the prevention of crabgrass and other broad leaf summer weeds, and an insect control to help prevent turf damaging insects. Application Three (Stress Reliever) - Add endomycorrhizae and extomycorrhizae which simply aids the plant roots in the uptake of water and nutrients from the soil to make the lawn more drought resistant, an application of slow release fertilizer to maintain a healthy green lawn throughout the summer months. Application Four (Root Developer) - Done at the same time as aeration and seeding and adds fulvic acids and kelp to the soil to aid in root development and enhance the seed's germination. Starter fertilizer is also applied at this time to help green up the existing lawn and further boost the germination rate of the seed. Application Five (Winterizer) - Final application adds saccharomyces cerevisiae and polysaccharide, which supply food for the living microbes during the winter. A mix of quick and slow release fertilizer is also applied at this time to keep the lawn green through the cold winter months, and a final application of winter weed control to eliminate any winter weeds that have already begun to germinate. The Picture Perfect Lawn Care Program also includes three Fungicide Applications in the summer months to help prevent and control lawn diseases such as brown patch and dollar spot that are caused by the hot, dry, humid summers. For more information about the PPLM "Full Service" annual program please visit http://pictureperfectlawn.net/chesterfield-va-lawn.... PPLM welcomes the opportunity to provide their full maintenance Chesterfield Virginia Lawn Care service. However, if all that is needed is a company to mow the yard or any of their "A La Carte" services such as mulching, aeration, seeding, and pruning, they are ready to help. Standard service includes mowing the entire yard, line trimming around all trees, posts, fencing, etc., edging all sidewalks, patios and driveways with a blade edger and clean up of all clippings. PPLM quality services also include Lawn Striping. Lawn Striping is a pattern created in the grass during the mowing process. Visual results may vary based upon health of grass, length of grass, type of grass, available sunlight and seasonal conditions. Healthy, well maintained cool season grasses such as, Rye grass, Fescue, and Bluegrass pattern more easily. Warm season grasses such as Bermuda, St. Augustine and Zoysia do not pattern as well due to their coarseness. The patterns are created by the weight of the roller bends the grass down in the direction mowed. It simply gently bends the grass blades in the direction being mowed and does not fold or break the blades of grass. It is important to rotate the mowing patterns and angles each time so that each grass blade has an equal, high quality cut. Picture Perfect Lawn Maintenance is a family-owned and operated company located in central and south side Virginia. Starting more than 10 years ago their lawn care and lawn maintenance services are provided by a professional crew certified in fertilization and soil applications. Their fertilizer process incorporates all organic fertilization materials that decrease the amount of synthetic chemicals, which is normally used. Additionally, Picture Perfect offers the state of the art, online customer account portal. Customers can login and order services, send messages, and pay their bill, all from the convenience of their home. Picture Perfect Lawn Maintenance provides Chesterfield VA Lawn Care Fertilization & Landscaping to distinct communities within Chesterfield County: Bellwood, Belmont, Bexley, Bermuda Hundred, Bon Air, Brandermill, Charter Colony, Chester, Collington, Courthouse, Enon, Ettrick, Fox Creek, Genito, Gordon, Hampton Farms, Hampton Park, Harpers Mill, Harrowgate, Hening, Jefferson Davis North, Magnolia Green, Manchester, Matoaca, Meadowbrook, Midlothian, Moseley, Reams, Robious, Rockwood, Salisbury, South Rockwood, Spring Run, Summer Lake, Summerford, Winterpock, and Woodlake. In addition to Chesterfield, Picture Perfect operates in Chester, Colonial Heights, Prince George, Hopewell, Fort Lee, Petersburg, Richmond, Hanover, Henrico, Powhatan, Amelia and surrounding areas. For more information about us, please visit http://pictureperfectlawn.net/ Contact Info: Name: Jimmy Cox Email: jimmy@pictureperfectlawn.net Organization: Picture Perfect Lawn Maintenance Address: PO Box 672 Colonial Heights, VA 23834 Phone: (804) 530-2540 Release ID: 105346 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) 3 Things To Expect When Tattoo Removal Docs in NJ Launches Directory Service Tattoo Removal Docs in New Jersey releases teaser information on the upcoming launch of its new website directory service. Further information can be found at www.TattooRemovalDocsNJ.com. -- Tattoo Removal Docs in New Jersey today announced the official launch date of its upcoming website directory service on Tuesday, March 1, 2016. Rumors are already starting to circulate among observers and die-hard fans within the tattoo removal world, as the 'Live' date of the website directory service draws near. Tattoo Removal Docs in New Jersey has also released three things fans, reviewers and critics can expect from the business in 2016. The first thing folks should expect is a big improvement in the time it takes the consumer to find qualified tattoo removal specialists in their area. Tattoo Removal Docs in New Jersey makes this happen by connecting with the best local companies that offer removal services in the most popular New Jersey cities and adding them to the growing directory. This is to be expected from a business who places this much value on the education, time and satisfaction of the consumer. As well as that, Tattoo Removal Docs in New Jersey will celebrate the live day event by promoting their resource and information section on social media. This resource section will address some of the most frequently asked questions about the tattoo removal process. It is the company's hope that this will help consumers who visit the website to be prepared before they make their first appointment and to know all the right questions to ask their doctor. The directory service will include the 10 largest New Jersey cities on the launch date of March 1, 2016. Additional cities and suburbs will be added in the upcoming months. According to a study by the American Dermatology Association, 20 percent of people who received a tattoo were unhappy with the final outcome. In recent years, tattoos have become more and more popular which has created a growing demand for consumers to find skilled professionals in the field of tattoo removal. Tess Riley, Marketing Manager at Tattoo Removal Docs in New Jersey also wanted to add "While we created the directory with consumers in mind, we also hope to provide a place for dermatologists and doctors skilled in the tattoo removal process to reach out and connect with their customers." For further information about Tattoo Removal Docs in New Jersey or the new website directory service, it can all be discovered at www.TattooRemovalDocsNJ.com. For more information about us, please visit http://tattooremovaldocsnj.com Contact Info: Name: Tess Riley Organization: Tattoo Removal Docs in New Jersey Release ID: 105270 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sorbic Acid Market 2010 To 2020 - analysis, Segment, Trends and Forecasts Report by Radiant Insights Radiant Insights, Inc has announced the addition of the "Global and Chinese Sorbic Acid Industry, 2015 Market Research Report" report to their offering. -- The 'Global and Chinese Sorbic Acid Industry, 2010-2020 Market Research Report' is a professional and in-depth study on the current state of the global Sorbic Acid industry with a focus on the Chinese market. The report provides key statistics on the market status of the Sorbic Acid manufacturers and is a valuable source of guidance and direction for companies and individuals interested in the industry. Browse the Full Sorbic Acid Market - Global Scenario, Industry Outlook, Share, and Industry analysis, Size, Trends and Forecast, 2010 To 2020 Report at - http://www.radiantinsights.com/research/global-and-chinese-sorbic-acid-industry-2015-market-research-report Firstly, the report provides a basic overview of the industry including its definition, applications and manufacturing technology. Then, 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 2010-2015 market shares for each company. Through the statistical analysis, the report depicts the global and Chinese total market of Sorbic Acid industry including capacity, production, production value, cost/profit, supply/demand and Chinese import/export. Download Free Request Sample @ http://www.radiantinsights.com/research/global-and-chinese-sorbic-acid-industry-2015-market-research-report#tabs-4 The total market is further divided by company, by country, and by application/type for the competitive landscape analysis. The report then estimates 2015-2020 market development trends of Sorbic Acid industry. Analysis of upstream raw materials, downstream demand, and current market dynamics is also carried out. In the end, the report makes some important proposals for a new project of Sorbic Acid Industry before evaluating its feasibility. Overall, the report provides an in-depth insight of 2010-2020 global and Chinese Sorbic Acid industry covering all important parameters. Browse All Reports of This Category @ http://www.radiantinsights.com/catalog/chemicals About Radiant Insight Radiant Insights is a platform for companies looking to meet their market research and business intelligence requirements. It assist and facilitate organizations and individuals procure market research reports, helping them in the decision making process. The Organization has a comprehensive collection of reports, covering over 40 key industries and a host of micro markets. For more information about us, please visit http://www.radiantinsights.com/research/global-and-chinese-sorbic-acid-industry-2015-market-research-report Contact Info: Name: Michelle Thoras Email: sales@radiantinsights.com Organization: Radiant Insights Inc Address: 28 2nd Street, Suite 3036 Phone: 1-415-349-0058 Source: http://marketersmedia.com/sorbic-acid-market-2010-to-2020-analysis-segment-trends-and-forecasts-report-by-radiant-insights/105418 Release ID: 105418 For more information visit r Recent Press Releases By The Same User Agarwood Essential Oil Market Expected to Grow at CAGR 4.2% During 2016 to 2022"> (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Cyber Weapon Market by Type, Product, Application, Region, Outlook and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Landscaping and Gardening Expert Trevor McClintock Launches New Locally Optimized Website (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Sleep apnea devices Market is Evolving At A CAGR of 7.5% by 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Agriculture Technology Market 2017 Global Analysis, Opportunities and Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) Global VR Helmet Market by Manufacturers, Technology, Type and Application, Forecast to 2022 (Fri 2nd Jun 17) I have a large forehead - a dome. I love laughing and ice cream burps. I hate raw tomatoes. I dont get speed limits. My batter walk up song would either be Low by Flo Rida or Gunpowder and Lead by Miranda Lambert. I can't whistle or wink; I can twirl in the rain. My favorite days are spent with family. I will forever compete, and I aim to run with endurance the race set before me, looking to the author and finisher of my faith. But sometimes, I get distracted by cheese. Wealth management firm WH Ireland has reported a full-year loss of 0.3m after being hit by a hefty fine from the Financial Conduct Authority. The firm reported a loss of 0.3m, against 2014s profit before tax of 0.5m, according to its full-year results ending 30 November 2015. The wealth manager was fined 1.2m following a review in 2013 by the regulator which found deficiencies in its systems and controls, leaving it potentially open to market abuse. The firm reached a settlement with the FCA last week. It was also barred from taking on new clients for 72 days. In its results published today, the firms chairman Tim Steel said reporting this transgression to shareholders was uncomfortable, adding it was his firm belief that a settlement of this issue is in the best long term interest of shareholders and staff. Since that review, Mr Steel said WH Ireland has revamped every aspect of its business and has focused its efforts on accelerating change at the company. Before the fine, operating profit totalled 1.1m, an increase from 2014s figure of 0.7m. Group turnover increased by 3 per cent to 30.9m in 2015, from 30m the previous year. Assets under management for its private wealth management business increased by 2 per cent to 2.48bn, from 2014s figure of 2.47bn. Richard Killingbeck, chief executive of WH Ireland, said he was broadly positive about the results. He said: Many of the structural changes at the company to which I have referred in the past have begun to improve the 2015 financial performance of WH Ireland. We still have a lot more to do, but these are encouraging figures. Richard Killingbeck We still have a lot more to do, but these are encouraging figures. Speaking to FTAdviser, Mr Killingbeck said the firm can now focus on moving forward: Im pleased to put those issues behind us because its been hanging over the company for far too long now. We are starting to tell the story that change is happening, and that we are much more focused on management fees and recurring fees than we have been. He said the firm has turned its attention to improving efficiency around its operations, corporate structure and remuneration. Senior management team is much better spent on driving the business rather than looking in a rearview mirror. katherine.denham@ft.com First State Investments has reopened Martin Laus 372m Greater China Growth fund, four years after it was closed to new investment, Investment Adviser can reveal. The fund, run by Mr Lau and Sophia Li, has removed the 4 per cent initial charge that had been imposed on new investments in January 2012 following significant inflows. The move marks the first time a First State fund has reopened since it split its First State Stewart business in two last year. Mr Lau works as part of FSS Asia, now a separate entity from the Stewart Investors business that is home to the business giant Leaders funds. A number of the firms other portfolios, including Jonathan Asantes Global Emerging Market Leaders fund, remain closed to new investment. First State said in a statement: Due to capacity concerns and to protect existing investors, the Greater China Growth fund was closed to new investment on January 1 2012. We are now at a point where we feel able to remove the mandatory initial fee across this strategy, including the First State Greater China Growth fund (UK Oeic), effective from February 25. The China strategy had more than 600m in assets under management at the time of its soft closure, but this figure has since dropped to less than 400m following a challenging time for investors in the country. It has continued to perform strongly on a relative basis, however, returning 32.8 per cent over the past five years compared with 5.8 per cent from the IA China/Greater China sector, according to FE Analytics. One fund buyer commented: We would be happy to see it reopen as it was a long-term hold for us, which we were forced to sell when they closed it. However, we would want some assurances that the fund would not close again in the short-term as this would provide us with the same headache as before. The product will invest in just 20 stocks and will be managed by Christopher Blake and Martin Flood, based in New York, in conjunction with the companys US equity investment team. Based on an existing strategy run out of the New York office, Lazard believes the fund can work in conjunction with the passive products that fund selectors typically use to access the hard-to-beat US equity market. Mr Blake, a managing director at Lazard who has worked at the firm for more than 20 years, said: A large number of UK investors with significant exposure to index funds and [exchange traded funds] are adopting a core and satellite approach to investing in US equities. We believe that the concentrated, high active share approach employed in our fund can complement passive investments. The Ucits fund will buy companies the managers believe have strong or improving levels of financial productivity and attractive valuations. The managers will use a bottom-up stock-selection strategy and will have the ability to invest in companies of any size. The fund will not follow a benchmark. Mr Flood (pictured), who has also worked at Lazard for the past two decades, said: We believe the US opportunity set is extremely attractive, as it is the largest and most liquid market worldwide. Furthermore, US companies represent some of the most financially productive globally, with healthy balance sheets, strong earnings, robust free cash flow and reasonable valuations. The fund is based on the existing Lazard US Equity Concentrated strategy, which returned 7.9 per cent in dollar terms during 2015, according to the fund house, compared with the S&P 500, which returned 1.4 per cent over the same time period. The strategy has outperformed the S&P 500 by 4 percentage points, gross of fees, on an annualised basis since its inception in 2003, the firm added. Temple Bar Investment Trusts chairman has said the vehicles performance in 2015 was disappointing but added he feels the approach taken by management will reap rewards in the long run. The investment trust companys results for the year ending 31 December 2015 showed the total return on net assets was minus 1 per cent, compared with a total return for the FTSE All Share Index of 1 per cent. John Reeve, chairman of Temple Bar Investment Trust, said it was always disappointing when the trust endured periods of underperformance but added this was a natural consequence of the vehicles chosen investment style which much favours a longer term standpoint. The trusts top five holdings as at the end of 2015 were UK Treasury at 8.6 per cent of the portfolio, HSBC at 8.4 per cent, GlaxoSmithKline at 6.7 per cent, BP at 6.5 per cent and Royal Dutch Shell at 5 per cent. Mr Reeve said: There is no getting away from the fact that the last few years have been an uncomfortable time for committed adherents of the value investing approach. While in relative terms our portfolio has suffered as a consequence, investment is a long term matter and I am reassured that many of our shareholders appear to understand this. They appreciate that the value investment style is inherently cyclical but that, if one is patient and adheres to this approach, eventually some great opportunities will arise. Clearly we hope that this occurs sooner rather than later but if needs be we will remain patient before investing any of the surplus cash currently held on the portfolio. Throughout 2015, the company paid dividends to shareholders on a quarterly basis, making three interim dividend payments of 7.93 a share with directors recommending a dividend of 15.87 to be paid on 31 March. This would make the total dividend to 39.66 for the year. Adviser View Laith Khalaf, senior analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: The trust has high exposure to troubled areas of the market like oil and gas, financials, and industrials. Investing in unloved areas of the market is part and parcel of the value approach. These sectors may well recover in time but its likely to be a choppy ride. Market volatility and a corresponding risk on, risk off approach in the opening month of 2016 resulted in the worst net retail fund flows since October 2008. Investment Association (IA) interim chief executive Guy Sears said a risk on, risk off approach from investors had exacerbated market volatility in January, resulting in net retail outflows of 463m from UK-based funds. This is the worst month since October 2008, when outflows reached 490m, according to IA statistics. Risk on, risk off was the theme in financial markets during January, which led to increased volatility, Mr Sears explained. Unsurprisingly, this caused some investors to reduce their holdings in investment funds. Fixed income funds saw the highest outflows, of 267m, while equity funds suffered a net retail outflow of 58m. Within fixed income, only the Gilts and Index-linked Gilts sectors saw positive inflows. Equity outflows were mainly consigned to the UK All Companies, Global and Asia Pacific ex Japan sectors. The trio saw over 500m of net outflows in total. But this was offset by net inflows into Europe ex UK and North America equity funds of 250m and 228m, respectively. Mixed asset funds were also hit by outflows, of 157m, though Mr Sears stressed the asset class had not previously endured net outflows in an individual month in more than a year. Passives again continued to prosper, however, with tracker funds enjoying net retail inflows of 543m. The mortgage market got off to a blistering start in 2016, with mortgage approvals and lending both up on their six monthly averages. According to Bank of England statistics lending secured on houses increased by 3.7bn in January, compared with the average monthly increase of 3.4bn over the previous six months. Meanwhile the number of loan approvals for house purchase was 74,581, compared with a six-monthly average of 70,221. January 2016 saw the highest number of total monthly approvals since the same month in 2014. Remortgaging did particularly well, with the number of loan approvals increasing by 33 per cent year-on-year and the value of remortgaging up by 45 per cent over the previous year. Meanwhile approvals for house purchases grew by 22 per cent. Peter Williams, executive director of Imla, said: The threat of a rate rise is no longer driving the remortgaging uplift instead it is being supported by homeowners looking to improve their financial situation through cheaper monthly repayments. In particular, landlords are preparing for fewer tax reliefs like the loss of the wear and tear allowance and restriction of mortgage interest deductability. Accessing cheaper deals through remortgaging will help offset these when they come into place. The number of approvals for remortgaging was 42,228, compared to the average of 40,306 over the previous six months. In his Summer Budget, chancellor George Osborne also said that from April 2017 the amount of tax relief on mortgage interest will be limited to the basic rate. Meanwhile in his Autumn Statement he introduced a new level of stamp duty for buy-to-let investors and owners of second homes set at 3 per cent on top of current stamp duty rates, which will come into effect in April. Richard Pike, sales and marketing director of Phoebus Software, said these changes could prompt an end to the markets bouyancy in a few months time. He said: There are a few factors that could see a change to the buoyancy of the market in the coming months, changes to buy-to-let will no doubt be felt, but the uncertainty of a Brexit from the European Union is certainly a major factor. Adviser View John Phillips, group operations director of Spicer Haart, said: The recent hike in mortgage borrowing over the last six months has resulted in an increase in loan approvals for both house purchase and remortgaging. It is possible that this increase has been driven and boosted, in part, by the impending increase in stamp duty, and this has contributed to the current upward pressure on mortgage approvals. However, it is clear that lending increases as buyers confidence increases. This rise in mortgage borrowing could also be a result of market fundamentals including consumer confidence, strong real income gains and, with mortgage rates expected to fall again, it is likely to remain on an upward trend. With the date of the UKs referendum on European Union membership now set, investment advisers must be thinking hard about the need to sit down with clients and discuss potential implications. As with any time where politics is involved, these conversations may be tricky. But in terms of the wider implications, Neil Woodfords view may provide some solace. He has argued that neither referendum option in or out carries huge economic consequences. This view is supported by research Woodford Investment Management commissioned on a Brexit from consultancy Capital Economics. The report implied that huge exposure to City of London commercial property would not be prudent in the event of an exit, as the asset class could fall 15 per cent in this scenario. But that aside, it found Brexit and the status quo to be much of a muchness, with perhaps a slight advantage to leaving. Markets are more short term in their outlook, of course. Sterling hasnt had a brilliant time, but then again the UKs still-embattled exporters may not be complaining too much about that. There are other opinions. It was fascinating to hear a sceptical cabinet minister criticising the views of a ratings agency suggesting the UKs credit rating could be imperilled by a Brexit. He did so on the basis of the agencys disastrous performance prior to the financial crisis. Conservatives previously set much store in defending the UKs triple-A status, which depends solely on the views of these same ratings agencies. Indeed, this defence was something of a justification for austerity because, as the government argued, to be downgraded further would increase the cost of borrowing. The eurozone is desperately in need of reform, and likewise its relationship with some EU countries determined not to engage in ever-deeper union But inconsistencies and genuine changes of mind will surely abound across the full range of the arguments as we approach referendum day on June 23. The discussions will not be for the faint-hearted, and the stakes are high in a multitude of ways especially for the divided Conservative party. Nor can investment advisers stay silent on the issue. The decision will have tactical and strategic implications for advisers and clients, regardless of the economic consequences. If in the face of a lot of volatility the right thing to do is to adjust portfolios, then that is what advisers must do. Intermediaries will also have to deal with clients who may feel strongly one way or another. This may even involve diplomatic challenges to confirmation bias. The puzzle for me is how we have come to this situation. The eurozone is desperately in need of reform, and likewise its relationship with some EU countries determined not to engage in ever-deeper union. The debate is already throwing up more cases where things are simply not working, though a Brexit would not necessarily mean we would be entirely free from the impact of the EUs, or the eurozones, most sclerotic features. Tenant dairy farmers have demanded a Europe-wide scheme to control milk production when markets crash. The Tenant Farmers Association (TFA) has proposed a system to replace the defunct quota regime and rein in output if prices collapse. Similar schemes have already been suggested before EU farming ministers meet on 14 March, when the commission will unveil its plan for dealing with the current crisis. See also: Pressure mounts on EU to intervene in farming crises TFA national chairman Stephen Wyrill said global factors were at play but the government could be doing more. He said supply management should be reintroduced, alongside more promotional work from the levy boards, better public procurement policies, and stronger powers for the supermarket watchdog. Although it is politically incorrect to say so, the TFA believes that we need to think again about supply control on a European basis, he said. Whilst milk quotas were something of a blunt instrument, it must be possible to have a package of measures which allows us to control production at times like this, when prices are low and the pressure on production is to increase further. The TFAs solution matches measures proposed last week by Brussels-based think tank Farm Europe. The group of former national and EU farm policy experts said the commission should launch an insurance fund for companies needing credit to export. It should also fully consider a scheme that would incentivise farmers to drop production for a limited time when prices slumped. Such a plan would have been better use of the 500m of emergency cash the EU paid direct to farmers last autumn, the think tank said. Countries had until 25 February to send their suggestions to the commission. The French government has been trying to gather support from other nations for a package of measures. A six-page memo from farm minister Stephane Le Foll included a scheme to pay farmers for cutting back and a temporary rise in intervention-buying prices. Lobby group the European Milk Board has been calling for a new supply management scheme since before quotas expired in spring 2015. In February Commission president Jean-Claude Juncker called the EMBs suggestions unrealistic. Farm commissioner Phil Hogan has repeatedly rebuffed calls for stronger action, believing the existing tools secured the promised soft landing after quotas. The EU is able to open private storage aid, which pays dairy firms to keep products off the market, or start intervention-buying, which kicks in once prices hit a certain level. The prophecy is more than seeing into the future. For the prophecy sees without the element of time. For the prophecy sees things as they were, as they are, and as they always shall be. Story Highlights Six in 10 continue to sympathize more with Israelis than Palestinians Republicans remain especially likely to favor the Israelis More in U.S. still favor than oppose establishment of Palestinian state PRINCETON, N.J. -- Americans' views about the Israeli-Palestinian conflict remained steady over the past year, with 62% of Americans saying their sympathies lie more with the Israelis and 15% favoring the Palestinians. About one in four continue to be neutral, including 9% who sympathize with neither side, 3% who sympathize with both, and 11% expressing no opinion. Americans have consistently shown more support for Israel than for the Palestinians over the past 15 years. However, sympathy for Israel increased in 2006 to 59%, from 52% the year before, in a Gallup poll conducted shortly after the January 2006 Palestinian elections in which Hamas -- which the U.S. government has classified as a terrorist group -- won the majority of parliamentary seats. Support for Israel has since remained at 58% or higher. All major demographic and political subgroups of Americans lean toward Israel over the Palestinians on this question. However, several characteristics are related to the extent of public support for Israel. Chief among these are religious preference and party identification. Gallup finds a 31-percentage-point difference in sympathy for Israel between Protestants (72%) and nonreligious Americans (41%), and a 26-point difference between Republicans (79%) and Democrats (53%). That contrasts with a 19-point difference between highly religious and nonreligious Americans, and an 18-point difference between older and younger Americans. All of these differences from Gallup's Feb. 3-7, 2016, World Affairs poll are similar to the recent patterns in Americans' Mideast sympathies. As Gallup has reported in the past, the partisan gap in Americans' support for Israel has widened over the past decade and a half as Republicans warmed toward Israel during George W. Bush's administration. This likely stems from the Bush administration's close relationship to that country as well as post-9/11 attitudes about terrorism and the Arab world. Meanwhile, Democrats' sympathies with Israel also grew during this period, just not as much. Separately, Gallup measures Americans' favorability toward Israel and the Palestinian Authority individually. The results are similar to the "sympathies" split, with 71% of Americans holding a very or mostly favorable view of Israel, versus 19% viewing the Palestinian Authority favorably. These attitudes were also steady over the past year, though they show increased favorability toward Israel compared with 2000. At the same time, the trend shows no long-term change in favorability toward the Palestinian Authority. Apart from the occasional dip and spike, this has tended to be near 20%. More Still Favor Than Oppose an Independent Palestinian State One other trend question asked in the survey shows somewhat more U.S. understanding for the Palestinians. By a slight margin, 44% to 37%, more Americans favor than oppose the establishment of an independent Palestinian state on the West Bank and Gaza Strip. Those results are in line with what Gallup has measured since 2013; however, there were larger margins in favor of a Palestinian state in most prior years. On this question, the two political parties have substantively different views, with 58% of Democrats supporting the establishment of a Palestinian state, compared with 26% of Republicans. Bottom Line Americans have become more sympathetic toward Israel over the past 15 years, and that more pro-Israel view held steady in the past year. While Republicans show extraordinarily high support for Israel -- an affinity evident at the Republican presidential debate in Houston last week, where every candidate professed his strong support for the Jewish state -- the majority of Democrats and independents are also on the same page. Given this, it is intriguing that more Americans continue to favor than oppose the creation of a Palestinian state. The finding suggests that despite the lack of U.S. diplomatic activity on this issue in recent years, it is still something Americans would generally welcome should the next president be willing to work toward it. Historical data are available in Gallup Analytics. Survey Methods Results for this Gallup poll are based on telephone interviews conducted Feb. 3-7, 2016, with a random sample of 1,021 adults, aged 18 and older, living in all 50 U.S. states and the District of Columbia. For results based on the total sample of national adults, the margin of sampling error is 4 percentage points at the 95% confidence level. All reported margins of sampling error include computed design effects for weighting. Each sample of national adults includes a minimum quota of 60% cellphone respondents and 40% landline respondents, with additional minimum quotas by time zone within region. Landline and cellular telephone numbers are selected using random-digit-dial methods. View complete question responses and trends. Learn more about how the Gallup Poll Social Series works. Reports are circulating today that Sony is quietly halting sales of the PlayStation TV, at least in Japan, as the microconsole's official Japanese product page lists it as being no longer available for shipment. It's yet unclear what this means for the future of the PlayStation TV, which launched in Japan back in 2013 and was brought to the West a year later. According to a report from Japanese outfit AV Watch (interpreted by Kotaku) the microconsole is seen to be unnecessary in Japan. Gamasutra has reached out to Sony for confirmation and further details, but has yet to hear back. The Western arm of the company still lists the PlayStation TV as available for purchase via third-party retailers. Update: Sony representatives have confirmed to Polygon and GameSpot that the company stopped shipping PlayStation TVs to Europe and the U.S. last year, but seem to be dancing around confirming the same for Japan, stating only that PlayStation TV is still shipping in Asia. Tuesday: Takena Kiwanis breakfast meeting. Speaker: Stan Boshart of Boshart Trucking will discuss the challenges of the straw business. Time: 7 a.m., Elmers Restaurant, 2802 Santiam Highway S.E. Cost: Free. Tuesday: Woodland Information Night, 6:30 p.m., Corvallis-Benton County Public Library, 645 N.W. Monroe Ave. The Benton Chapter of the Oregon Small Woodland Association and the Oregon State University Extension Service will host this annual event for updates on current topics of interest to family woodland owners. Bill Mahr will speak on coming changes to stream rules; Mahr and John Westall will speak on fire prevention for family forest landowners; Van Decker will give log price updates; and Brad Withrow-Robin will review useful resources in the battle against weeds. Tuesday: Retirement party for Benton County Fair Director Lonny Wunder, 3:30 to 5 p.m., Carriage House, fairgrounds, 110 S.W. 53rd St., Corvallis. Wednesday: Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Women in Business: Navigating the Social Web; What You Need to Know. Speaker: Jen Grant, marketing executive and business strategist. Time: 11:30 a.m., Phoenix Inn Suites, 3410 Spicer Drive S.E. Cost: $16 members, $20 non-members, pre-registration required. Info: 541-926-1517. Friday: Wine-blending seminar, 2 p.m., Spindrift Cellars, 810 Applegate St., Philomath. Experience an opportunity to try your hand at winemaking, guided by Matt Compton, winemaker and owner of Spindrift Cellars. Cost: $46. Registration: http://spindriftcellars.orderport.net/product-details/0262/wine-blending-class. March 8: Takena Kiwanis breakfast meeting. Speaker: Jim Golden, Greater Albany Public Schools Superintendent, will talk about early childhood education. Time: 7 a.m., Elmers Restaurant, 2802 Santiam Highway S.E. Cost: Free. March 9: "Pulling Back the Curtain: A Behind-the-Scenes Look at the Changing World of Science Journalism," 5 p.m., Room 210, Learning Innovation Center, 2750 S.W. Campus Way, Corvallis. Sponsored by the Oregon State University College of Earth, Ocean and Atmospheric Sciences. Information: http://ceoas.oregonstate.edu/features/journalism. March 15: Takena Kiwanis breakfast meeting. Speaker: Reita Wyatt, coordinator of the Mid Valley Gleaners. Time: 7 a.m., Elmers Restaurant, 2802 Santiam Highway S.E. Cost: Free. March 15: Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Business After Hours: TnT Builders. Time: 5:15 p.m. to 7 p.m., 620 Queen Ave. S.E. Cost: Free. Info: 541-926-1517. March 17: Lebanon Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center Business After Hours: Linn-Co Federal Credit Union. Time: 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., 425 Second St. Cost: Free. Info: 541-258-7164. March 25: Lebanon Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center Forum Lunch. Speaker: Greg Hamann, Linn-Benton Community College president. Time: 11:30 a.m., Lebanon Community Hospital Training Center, 525 N. Santiam Highway. Cost: $14.50, RSVP required. Info: 541-258-7164. March 29: Takena Kiwanis breakfast meeting. Speaker: Brent Belveal, South Albany High School, will talk about construction after the fire. Time: 7 a.m., Elmers Restaurant, 2802 Santiam Highway S.E. Cost: Free. March 30: Albany Area Chamber of Commerce Membership Forum: Oregon on Fire. Speaker: Doug Grafe, state of Oregon fire protection division chief. Time: 11:30 a.m., Linn County Fair & Expo Center, 3700 Knox Butte Road. Cost: $15 for members, $20 for non-members. Info: 541-926-1517. April 5: Albany Area Chamber of Commerce 16th annual Ag Appreciation Breakfast: The Future of Farming. Time: 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., Linn County Fair & Expo Center, 3700 Knox Butte Road. Cost: $11.50. Info: 541-926-1517. McDonalds worker wins company award Toni Johnson, a worker at the McDonalds at 1820 Pacific Blvd. S.W. in Albany is one of only 25 people to receive the 2015 Crew Person of the Year Award from the restaurant chain. The award is an annual performance-based award that recognizes the top performing crew in McDonalds restaurants throughout the nation. Toni is the epitome of what it means to express excellent customer service, said Randy Beaulaurier, the owner and operator of the McDonalds restaurant Johnson works at. I joke with her from time to time and say, Toni, I wish I could clone you, he added. Johnson has worked for McDonalds for five-and-a-half years, and Beaulaurier has created a program called the Toni Club to honor workers who provide the same sort of customer service as Johnson. Nurse practitioner joins Park Street Clinic Ian Maness has joined Samaritan Park Street Clinic in Lebanon as a nurse practitioner. He will partner with Dr. Rick Salisbury in caring for the clinics internal medicine patients. Maness spent 13 years as a hospital nurse, in several different areas of care, before deciding to become a nurse practitioner. During my hospital nursing career, I heard multiple stories of how chronic diseases led to hospitalizations due partly to a lack of access to primary care, Manness said. Im proud to be part of the solution thats bridging the gap to access in the primary care setting. Target DC announces new hires The Albany Target Distribution Center has announced the addition of several new executives. David Jensen and Holly Vlieg are new senior group leaders in the fulfillment center. Steve Huinker and Andrew Hastings are new production controllers in the fulfillment center. Bre Boben, JaLissa Jackson, Zach Lyell, Tony Meyer and Katy Mulloy are new group leaders in the fulfillment center. Anna Suda is a new transportation business partner for the Target Distribution Center in Albany. Joe Krebs is a new group leader in the engineering and facilities department. New directors at Arts Center The Arts Center recently welcomed Kathy Brisker, Candace Pierson-Charlton and Elizabeth Pakravan to its board of directors. They join returning board members Walter Barkan, Alyce Chapman, Brian Egan, Amy Jauron, Keith Moses, Lauren Ohlgren and Wayne Wiegand. The center has advanced the arts for more than 53 years from its historic building at Central Park in downtown Corvallis. Last year the center welcomed more than 14,000 visitors; served arts experiences to more than 3,500 youth in public schools and treatment centers; brought healing arts services to more than 9,000 patients, their families and workers at area health care facilities; and gave more than 500 artists the opportunity to show and sell their artwork. The Arts Center is a donor-funded nonprofit serving Benton and Linn counties. Further information is available at theartscenter.net. Ulrich to become branch manager Oregon State Credit Union has named 11-year financial industry professional Chad Ulrich its new branch manager of the Lincoln City location, scheduled to open in the spring. Ulrich has served the financial needs of the Lincoln City community since 2009, including management roles at both Bank of America and Oregon Coast Bank. He graduated from Eastern Oregon University with an undergraduate degree in business and economics, and started in the financial industry in Boise, Idaho, prior to his move to Lincoln City. Shayna Brock joins Windermere Shayna Brock has joined Windermere Willamette Valley as a licensed real estate broker and assistant to Hong Wolfe. Brock brings nine years of administrative and selling experience in three states to the company. She previously was affiliated with Re/Max Integrity, working in the Albany and Salem markets. She can be reached at 503-953-5401 or hongwolfeassistant@windermere.com. PEAK promotes Kindell, Alfageeh PEAK Internet has named Donovan Kindell its new technical support manager, and Nadia Alfaqeeh its new customer service manager. Kindell has been with PEAK since 2003. He started as a technical support agent, and was promoted to technical support supervisor. Alfaqeeh started with PEAK in 2012. She came on as a customer service agent, and was promoted to customer service supervisor. Ketelson joins QuickCare clinic Kathleen Ketelson joined The Corvallis Clinics QuickCare convenience clinic (www.quickcare.clinic) in December. Ketelson was a palliative and hospice nurse practitioner at Samaritan Health in 2014 and 2015, and a family nurse practitioner for various Samaritan practices from 2010 to 2014. She was a registered nurse in the Samaritan Health Emergency Department from 1993 to 2010, and in the Medical Surgical Unit from 1992 to 1994. From 2013 to 2015 she was a part-time clinical nursing instructor at Linn-Benton Community College. Ketelson said she decided to become a nurse practitioner after more than 20 years as a registered nurse because she wanted to learn more about taking care of patients and their families. She earned a master of science degree in nursing, family nurse practitioner, from Gonzaga University in Spokane, Washington, in 2010, and a bachelor of science degree in nursing from the University of Portland in 1992. Journal honors Samaritan Heatlh Samaritan Health Services was honored by the Portland Business Journal on Oct. 21 as Oregons third healthiest employer in the 1,500-plus employee category. The journals program promotes the value of workplace wellness and recognizes companies who are demonstrating that they place a high value on the health of their workers through innovation and leadership in their benefits and wellness programs. Samaritan has topped the list in Oregon for the past two years, outranking several regional and national health care organizations, as well as Fortune 500 high-tech, retail, financial and public utility companies. OSU professor earns career award Xiulei "David" Ji, assistant professor in the Oregon State University Department of Chemistry, has received a five-year $530,000 National Science Foundation CAREER Award for his project Carbon Anodes in Potassium-Ion Batteries. The CAREER award is the foundations most prestigious award given to junior faculty members for innovative research and its effective application in education. The awards allow promising young researchers and scientists to achieve scientific leadership in integrating education and research in their field. Ji and his research team are working toward sustainable energy storage and conversion devices that are environment-friendly, and possess better safety, energy density and power density. Specifically, Jis lab conducts research to understand basic structure-property relationships at atomic and nanometric scales for short-range ordered materials. Currently, the team is focused on designing new carbon-based materials for sustainable energy storage and conversion. Sept. 29, 1918 Feb. 25, 2016 Dorette Dorrie Lemon was born in Seattle, Washington, on Sept. 29, 1918, to E. Eugene Rothschild and V. Bess Snyder. Dorette grew up in West Seattle, graduating from West Seattle High School in 1936. In 1940, she earned a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Washington. In recognition of her leadership and scholarship, she was selected for Mortar Board her senior year. It was the highest award for women in college. She attended the Boston University School of Social Work in 1941-42, and received a masters degree from the Columbia University School of Social Work in 1943. Dorette married Berlan Lemon on April 18, 1946. They were happily married until his death 62 years later. They had three daughters, Laura, Patricia and Louise. The family lived in Eugene, Seattle and Portland before moving to Corvallis in 1959. Dorette worked for the YWCA in Seattle and Eugene from 1943-1947. After 16 years spent raising her daughters, she took a position at the Oregon State University Mathematics Department in 1963 as a secretary/bookkeeper. In 1972 she became the administrative assistant at the OSU Computer Center, and retired from that position in 1980. While in Portland, Dorette served on the board of the YWCA, became a Girl Scout troop leader and taught Sunday school. After moving to Corvallis, Dorette made friends, joined clubs and became involved in many activities that lasted a lifetime. She led a troop of Girl Scouts through their high school graduation, and was pleased to reunite with eight of the girls last summer. She was actively involved with the AFS exchange program, including hosting a South African exchange student for a year. She volunteered with Crossroads International, RSVP and OSU Folk Club. Central to her life in Corvallis have been her memberships in First Presbyterian Church, PEO Chapter AR and her beloved Gourmet group. Together with her husband, Berlan, she enjoyed attending OSU sporting events, dancing, playing bridge and traveling in the United States and abroad. In 1959, Dorette was instrumental in establishing the Rothschild House in Port Townsend, Washington, as an historic site. The house, built by her grandparents in 1868, is now open to the public as a museum. Also in 1959, Dorette entered and won a national contest sponsored by Betty Crocker and Sunkist Lemons to name a lemon pie recipe. First prize was $25 per week, intended to be food for life for a family of four. Her prize checks arrived faithfully throughout her life. Dorette is survived by her daughters, Patricia Starker (Barte) and Louise Runkle (Skip); grandchildren Geoffrey Vogel, Robert Vogel (Katherine), Wendy Little (Matt), Sally Starker (Zach), Andy Lasselle (Rachel), Grant Lasselle (Bryony), Erin Bryner (Jay) and Colin Runkle (Laura); and 11 great-grandchildren. She was preceded in death by her husband, Berlan, and daughter Laura Vogel. A memorial service will be at 1 p.m. Monday, March 7, at First Presbyterian Church in Corvallis. Donations in her memory can be made to First Presbyterian Church, 114 S.W. Eighth St., Corvallis, OR 97333, or to a charity of your choice. Please leave your memories and condolences for the family at www.mchenryfuneralhome.com. Catherine Rampell in her Feb. 21 column critiqued economist Gerald Friedmans favorable analysis of Bernie Sanders economic plans. Rampell said "other experts, using different, more reasonable economic assumptions did not agree with Friedman or Sanders. Presumably she refers to New York Times columnist Paul Krugman and four notable economists considered credible by liberal politicians. But the Krugman economists did not impress James Galbraith, former executive director of the Congressional Joint Economic Committee. On Feb. 18, Professor Galbraith wrote an open letter to them (accessible online). In the letter Galbraith reports looking for a reference or link to the economists rigorous review of Professor Friedman's study but finding none. Galbraith, who now teaches economics at the University of Texas at Austin, said that what the four economists accomplished was to "light a fire under Paul Krugman, who is now using his high perch to airily dismiss the Friedman paper as 'nonsense.'" Galbraith pointed out that Friedmans work was far more careful than the economists casual dismissal of it. The TV debates between Sen. Sanders and Secretary Clinton have been cordial and informative, but Ms. Rampell, Mr. Krugman, and the four economists reveal a not-so-cordial battle that pits truth and relevance versus political power and implied payoffs. Michael C. Huntington, M.D. Corvallis (Feb. 23) You might be thinking that theres little chance that this short and bitter legislative session will produce anything else of substance in its final days, especially with minority Republicans doing everything they can (and not without justification) to gum up the works. And its true that prospects seem bleak at this point for bills that have attracted some measure of controversy. But bills that have benefited from ample work well before the short session began and which enjoy relatively wide support still have a shot at passing and its worth remembering that just because these measures may not be particularly controversial doesnt mean they wont make a real difference. In that light, we were delighted to hear that a bill from Sen. Sara Gelser, D-Corvallis, preserving at least some parts of the so-called fifth-year programs in place at many mid-valley high schools, passed the Senate last week on a 28-0 vote and is headed to the House. Gelsers bill, Senate Bill 1537, carves out a path forward for the fifth-year programs that have been pioneered by mid-valley schools. Under these programs, students who have met all the requirements for graduation can opt to remain enrolled in their school districts for a fifth year while attending community college; using state school fund money, those districts cover all or some of their tuition and fees. The programs have scored some early success, particularly in helping those students (in many cases, often the first members of their families to attend college) get a head start on their postsecondary education. Other lawmakers argued that it was unfair to use money intended for K-12 education to help pay for a 13th year for some students. And they said the program financially wasnt sustainable, especially on a statewide basis. Gelsers bill essentially attaches sideboards to the fifth-year programs, which now are dubbed Post-Graduate Scholar Programs. Under terms of the bill, districts that want to set up the programs must designate stuff members to help support students and have must have policies and strategies in place to improve graduation rates. To qualify for the programs, students must first apply for the Oregon Promise tuition assistance program, which helps high school graduates and GED recipients pay for community college. They must also complete the federal form known as FAFSA, the Free Application for Federal Student Aid. The idea is to control the costs of the programs. The bill calls for the state to report back on participation rates and costs before the 2019 Legislature takes another look at the programs. The bill isnt perfect for example, the Post-Graduate Scholar Programs wont necessarily offer the same level of help to participating students that the fifth-year programs often offered but its a considerably better deal than we thought Gelser would be able to wrest from her skeptical colleagues. And its worth noting that many mid-valley educators assisted Gelser in making the case to the Legislature. Its a case that senators obviously found persuasive; lets hope the House feels the same way. Police chase : Police apprehend burglars and thank witnesses Venusberg Alert neighbors helped police be successful in chasing down burglary suspects. Teilen Teilen Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Tweeten Tweeten Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Drucken On Saturday evening at around 6:15 p.m., two burglars broke into a single family home on Bodelschwinghweg in Venusberg. When they broke in the glass of the patio door, the house alarm went off but the intruders entered the house anyway and searched at least one bedroom. They fled very shortly after that in a car which witnesses told police they had seen often in the neighborhood in the past week. Neighbors heard the alarm and saw a strange man at the home and it became quickly clear that it was a burglary. An alert neighbors call to police emergency number 110 set off a massive police manhunt for the suspects. Police found the get-away car abandoned in the area of Clemens August Strae. From there, the suspects apparently hailed a taxi to take them to Bonn central train station. Police found out the suspected burglars were riding on a train and with a large number of officers in pursuit, they were able to stop the train. Because they had such accurate descriptions of the suspects from neighborhood witnesses, they were quickly able to locate the two men on the train. The 24-year-old and 26-year-old, both from Serbia, were arrested and taken into custody. Criminal police are investigating if the two men are responsible for other break-ins. Searching the car of the suspects, police found a small amount of narcotics, two flashlights and gloves. They credit alert neighborhood residents with contributing to their success in finding the suspected burglars. Good observations and quick action on the part of the residents helped lead police to the men. Police would like to remind everyone that if you see something unusual or suspicious happening, please contact them immediately at 110. Medical emergency : Ryanair lands in Hannover instead of Cologne/Bonn Cologne Ryanair pilots decided on an emergency landing in Hannover after a young man on board had a severe asthma attack, becoming unresponsive. Teilen Teilen Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Tweeten Tweeten Weiterleiten Weiterleiten Drucken A Ryanair flight en route from Berlin to Cologne/Bonn was forced to make an emergency landing in Hannover due to a medical emergency. After the plane left Berlin at around noon, a 20-year-old passenger had a severe asthma attack with strong cramps. A doctor and a paramedic were on board and immediately went to the aid of the young man. Pilots decided to divert the plane to Hannover. The young man was unresponsive and had to be put on respiration. Medics also performed chest compressions. When the plane landed, he was taken by ambulance to Groburgwelder Hospital. The aircraft resumed its journey to Cologne at 2:00 p.m. CENTRAL ASIA: Kyrgyzstans industrial policy and the need to change strategy BISHKEK (TCA) Official statistics and overall public opinion tell that foreign direct investment in Kyrgyzstan is declining and there is no investment at all in small and medium enterprises (SME). Kyrgyzstan has to react and the Government should understand that due to different factors such as international crisis, currency problems, cashless Russia, and Eurasian Economic Union membership, the country needs a new industrial approach with income from the China trade being replaced with local production and processing. This new approach should offer investors, local and foreign, fiscal incentives and facilities that practically do not exist. The European sanctions on Russia are a bad thing for many European companies and they affect the Russian consumer that got used to quality products which are scarcely available now. The same is happening to Kazakhstan that due to an incredible devaluation of its currency cannot afford buying western products and has to look inside the country and to partners within the Eurasian Economic Union. The slowdown is evident everywhere and the Kyrgyz reaction should focus on transforming the present difficult moment into an opportunity. This is not a difficult task, as any company can easily find out what items have been penalized by the European sanctions on Russia supply of such items has dropped considerably but the market is still there. Then choose items that could be produced in Kyrgyzstan with its human resources, local raw materials, know how, and equipment. With a shortlist of such products to be manufactured down here, look around to get the necessary support in terms of know how, equipment, finance, facilities etc., and make your business plan. Today in Kyrgyzstan there are the Russian-Kyrgyz Development Fund and several banks that have money to finance new manufacturing units and start-ups. What is missing is a clear strategy from the Government for activating local potentiality and offering to local and foreign investors suitable incentives. Kyrgyzstan welcomes investment but such speeches and promises do not translate into concrete actions. Take, for example, industrial facilities and places where local manufacturing should concentrate in an appropriate environment and with adequate services. This is completely missing and we do not see around any industrial park with ready buildings or land where one could build factories under an approved master plan with construction permits issued within days and not months or years as it happens now. The idea of the Investment Promotion Agency under the Ministry of Economy to create a Promo Park is excellent but it still remains on the drawing board. In the West, as well as in Turkey and China, everybody understands that the present crisis for various reasons is going to last several years. In the meantime, Chinas export will suffer for the lack of buyers and Western manufacturers will look to new markets instead of Russia. Turkish companies are fully aware that the standoff with Russia and its sanctions are damaging their economy. So why not to take advantage of that long list of problems and step in immediately with Kyrgyz made goods, produced with up-to-date know how, to be exported to Russia and Kazakhstan for the time being. This will give a new breath to local and foreign investors here, and locals will probably stop investing in empty apartments and realize that renting a factory can be a much more profitable investment. We have a ready market of nearly 200 million people and we can easily attract local and foreign investment if only the Kyrgyz Government will do its part. The author of this article knows how to do it, and the answer is in a credible, transparent and serious Public-Private Partnership (PPP). It is the best formula to mobilize local and foreign efforts and the proper answer to several problems such as unemployment, currency risks, diversification of income etc. This will work if the country has the intention to develop domestic export-oriented enterprises or manufacturers for import substitution. To abandon re-export of Chinese goods, Kyrgyzstan should move fast by developing a more effective industrial system that favors small and medium domestic companies focused on the EEU market. An important role in this process should be assigned to the Ministry of Economy and the Investment Promotion Agency, which should support potential investors in preparation of short and preliminary business plans for the many sectors where Kyrgyzstan can excel. These are agro and milk processing, the garment industry, several types of consumer goods, jewelry, food, small equipment, assembly of electronic items and so on. Then in a joint effort with the private sector to organize a trade delegation of local business people that have patronized the selected proposed projects and are willing to venture and invest into specific activity. Then such trade delegation, with support of banks, embassies, and foreign institutions, should promote B2B meetings in different countries, not only in Europe but also in Turkey and China. All this can be done with private means, since participants should pay their own expenses as they invest in their own projects. The organizers may search for some sort of support from Banks and foreign institutions while the strategic organization would remain in the hands of the selected Ministry that should assign the task to English-speaking competent government officials that instead of sitting in their chairs and talking should move forward and bring results. Another issue to be considered is enhancing the existing Bishkek Free Economic Zone (FEZ). This zone, although among the first of its kind in Central Asia, has never been very successful due to corruption and incompetence. Its statute and idea is good, its potential is incredible, but the lack of a competent management has always been standing on its way to success. Why not assign the FEZ to competent Chinese or Turkish companies under a management concession? The State can fix the rules and the task not only to manage the zone but also attract more local and foreign investors. The selected company should pay the State an agreed rent and commit to a certain business plan agreed upon between the parties, while taking the responsibility for an investment attraction strategy within the Free Economic Zone. Click here to CHECK the original story Whatsapp Breaks up its Relationship With Android, BlackBerry and Nokia! News oi -Vigneshwar It seems, the famous messaging app is breaking up its relationship with BlackBerry and other platforms! Yes! As per the latest news, Whatsapp will be no longer available to certain platforms including BlackBerry 10, Nokia S40, Nokia Symbian S60, Android 2.1, Android 2.2 and Windows Phone 7.1. at the end of this year. Earlier this week, the Instant messaging app turned seven years old! As per the company, "About 70 percent of smartphones sold at the time had operating systems offered by BlackBerry and Nokia. Mobile operating systems offered by Google, Apple and Microsoft - which account for 99.5 percent of sales today - were on less than 25 percent of mobile devices sold at the time." If you or one of your employee has any devices, we have one suggests you to enhance your device! In its official blog, the company said, " As we look ahead to our next seven years, we want to focus our efforts on the mobile platforms the vast majority of people use. So, by the end of 2016, we will be ending support for WhatsApp Messenger" SEE ALSO: 5 interesting facts to know about 5G internet ! Moreover, it also added, "While these mobile devices have been an important part of our story, they don't offer the kind of capabilities we need to expand our app's features in the future. This was a tough decision for us to make, but the right one in order to give people better ways to keep in touch with friends, family, and loved ones using WhatsApp." Whatsapp is an instant messaging app, which uses Internet connection to send message, images, video, user location and audio media message. As of February 2016, WhatsApp had a user base of up to one billion, making it the most globally popular messaging application. Source Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Samsung Apple Patent War: 7 Interesting Facts you need to know Features oi -Sayan A long ongoing patent case between Apple Inc. and Samsung Electronics Co. was finally put to an end by a Federal Appeals Court on Friday, where a panel of three judges reversed a 2014 verdict which had forced the Korean company to pay $119.6 million fine for infringing patents. On the contrary Apple stand at the brink of paying $158,400 for infringing in a patent by Samsung. This is apparently an epic example of how a case can do so wrong against the company which was jumping in joy just a year ago! SEE ALSO: Weekly Round Up: Top Devices Launched in India Well, the Apple Samsung patent dispute is nothing knew and as many may know already the case have been going on for nearly half a decade. Just in case you are curious to know here's how it all begun. The Backdrop: It all began in 2011 Back in 2011 Apple had sued Samsung for the first time claiming that the Korean electronics maker had stolen some design ques from their iPhone and incorporated it in their Galaxy smartphones and tablet. The Cupertino giant followed this up by filing yet another patent suit the next year that is 2012 stating that Samsung had now borrowed software features of the iPhone, and the result of this case was finally announced by a Federal Appeals Court last Friday. Apple had cumulatively sought more than $4.5 billion for these patent infringement from Samsung. 2012: Samsung to pay Apple $548 million A federal jury in 2012 had announced a verdict in favour of Apple that Samsung had infringed into all except one patents filed by the Cupertino giant. These include patents related to key design elements including the rounded corners of iPhone and the apps icon of its software interface. Eventually Samsung has agreed to pay Apple damages worth 8 million as a result of this verdict. 2012: Apple wants another $380 million Apple however isn't happy to let them go so easily and the two company are set to fight again over $380 million more in damage. Samsung has however gone to the Supreme Court to appeal for their case. 2014: Samsung charged $119 million as damages Now coming to the second case filed by Apple in 2012, a jury consisting of nine judges ruled yet another decision in favour of Apple, thereby forcing the Korean electronics giant to pay over $119 million in damages. The patents in question were the quick links feature that produces links of number, URLs in messages and the popular Slide to Unlock feature. While Apple wasn't content with the decision as the Cupertino giant had appealed for compensations as high as $2.2 billion, there was no denying that the verdict had hurt Samsung badly. Incidentally Apple would also be required to pay Samsung a minor amount of $158,400 due to a patent infringement related to organizing photos and videos in the gallery. 2016: Federal court overturns the $119 million verdict in favour of Apple Jury found that two of the three patents filed by Apple shouldn't have been granted it the first place. Apart from that the Korean electronics giant hadn't infringed onto the third patent, as charged by Apple. On the contrary the jury collectively held Apple guilty infringing into a Samsung patent for which they owe the company damages worth $158,400. This sudden change in the fortunes have surprised the world media and people involved in the field of technology. As it has turned out to be, Apple is at a grave loss considering the fact that the Cupertino giant had filed the patent dispute case initially. 20XX: Will Apple move to the Supreme Court? While it appears that the Cupertino giant may move to the Supreme court to overturn the decision, Rutgers University law professor Michael Carrier told WSJ that the case is "much too far in weeds for the Supreme Court". Best Mobiles in India China suspends over 580 social media accounts News oi -GizBot Bureau Chinese authorities have suspended more than 580 social media accounts for spreading rumours, confusing people or going against the constitution, the media reported on Saturday. A statement issued by the Cyberspace Administration of China (CAC) on Friday said the suspended accounts include those of "celebrities" of popular microblog Weibo who had thousands of followers. SEE ALSO: Top 5 alternative Social Networking websites in China ! It accused them of "ignoring their social responsibilities, abusing their influence, staining the honor of the state and disrupting social order." The statement does not specify what kind of comments the users had published or who was affected, EFE news reported. CAC said it had also ordered other websites to remove more than 2,000 rumours affecting people's daily lives, transportation, food security and public policies. The statement comes amid efforts by China to tighten internet censorship. From March, it will begin controlling the content published by foreign companies online. These companies cannot directly publish their "creative content" on the web, including games, animation, comics, audio or video recordings, without the prior approval of the State Administration of Press, Publication, Radio, Film and Television. SEE ALSO: 5 Reasons that make the Samsung Galaxy S7 and S7 edge beautiful phones China, which has a tight censorship system known as the "Great Firewall", has increasingly clamped down on the internet since President Xi Jinping came to power three years ago. Soure IANS Best Mobiles in India Facebook, To stay updated with latest technology news & gadget reviews, follow GizBot on Twitter YouTube and also subscribe to our notification. Allow Notifications Hurricane Hunters fly research missions into atmospheric rivers By Master Sgt. Brian J. Lamar, 403rd Wing Public Affairs / Published February 28, 2016 KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. (AFNS) -- The 53rd Weather Reconnaissance Squadron, "Hurricane Hunters," spent Feb. 11-24 flying through 'atmospheric rivers' in the Pacific Ocean stretching from Hawaii to U.S. West Coast in efforts to improve storm predictions. The squadron teamed up with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, National Weather Service, Scripps Institution of Oceanography California, and Oregon and Washington emergency management offices for the research mission aimed at improving forecaster's ability to predict where these atmospheric river storms will make landfall. Atmospheric rivers, a corridor of concentrated moisture in the atmosphere, can lead to flooding, mudslides and damaging winds, and El Nino events contribute to warmer ocean waters which fuel these rivers with moisture. The organizations are taking advantage of one of the strongest El Nino seasons in the past 60 years to view the evolution of storms. 'We are tasked to fly during these specific events within the El Nino period in certain areas over the Pacific Ocean to collect information such as water vapor and temperature. This will allow meteorologists to forecast the amount of rain that is going hit California,' said Lt. Col. Jonathan Talbot, a 53rd WRS senior meteorologist. Two Air Force Reserve WC-130J Super Hercules completed three missions with both crews flying 2,300 mile treks simultaneously within the atmospheric rivers. For two missions one crew flew out of Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, and the other crew from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington. The last mission required a crew to fly a mission from Travis Air Force Base, California. To collect weather data, crews release a dropsonde, which is a parachute-borne cylindrical device that gathers weather data not available through satellite imagery. The dropsondes collect air temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, and wind speed and direction as it drops toward the surface of the water. An aircraft typically releases about 10-20 dropsondes; however, for these missions crews dropped anywhere from 40-60 dropsondes per flight across the width of the atmospheric river, said 1st Lt. Leesa Froelich, a 53rd WRS aerial weather reconnaissance officer. This data was sent real-time by satellite to the National Center for Environmental Prediction to create a multidimensional view of the rivers. 'This mission represents a new chapter in West Coast weather prediction by bringing capabilities of the Air Force's weather reconnaissance squadron and their impressive C-130J aircraft to beat on the challenges of West Coast atmospheric river landfall predictions,' said Marty Ralph, the Center for Western Weather director and Water Extremes University of California San Diego/Scripps Institution of Oceanography. Knowing the amount of rain California will receive during one of these events is vital, Ralph said. The last El Nino event in the 1990s produced more rain than the California reservoir infrastructure could handle. To alleviate strain on the reservoirs, the water managers opened the dams and let the water out. The big problem occurred when the rains stopped and too much water was let out and then it didn't rain again for years, he said. The data collected from the Hurricane Hunter's missions will allow scientists to determine how much water needs to be drained, Ralph said. 'Better forecasts of landfalling atmospheric rivers can help with precipitation and river predictions in ways that support water managers in California,' said Jay Jasperse, the Sonoma County Water Agency chief engineer, which oversees operations for a key reservoir that helps supply water to 600,000 people. 'The missions were an absolute 100 percent success,' Talbot said. 'All sorties flew and collected in the areas needed, helped to paint the full picture for forecasts.' NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Coalition Strikes Hit ISIL Terrorists in Syria, Iraq From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release SOUTHWEST ASIA, February 28, 2016 U.S. and coalition military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today. Officials reported details of the latest strikes, noting that assessments of results are based on initial reports. Strikes in Syria Attack, fighter and ground attack aircraft conducted 12 strikes in Syria: -- Near Raqqah, a strike struck an ISIL improvised weapons assembly area. -- Near Manbij, a strike destroyed two ISIL buildings. -- Near Tal Abyad, 10 strikes struck three separate ISIL tactical units and destroyed 23 ISIL buildings, and suppressed two ISIL tactical units, an ISIL mortar position, eight ISIL fighting positions, an ISIL heavy machine gun position, and an ISIL rocket fire position. Strikes in Iraq Fighter aircraft conducted 12 strikes in Iraq, coordinated with and in support of Iraq's government: -- Near Fallujah, a strike struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL staging area and two rocket rails. -- Near Kisik, a strike destroyed three ISIL fighting positions. -- Near Makhmur, a strike destroyed an ISIL vehicle bomb. -- Near Mosul, five strikes struck three separate ISIL tactical units and destroyed five ISIL fighting positions and two ISIL rocket rails and suppressed an ISIL rocket position. -- Near Qayyarah, a strike struck an ISIL financial distribution center. -- Near Ramadi, two strikes struck two separate ISIL tactical units and destroyed an ISIL building, an ISIL fighting position and two ISIL vehicles. -- Near Sinjar, a strike suppressed an ISIL rocket position and an ISIL heavy machine gun position. Task force officials define a strike as one or more kinetic events that occur in roughly the same geographic location to produce a single, sometimes cumulative, effect. Therefore, officials explained, a single aircraft delivering a single weapon against a lone ISIL vehicle is one strike, but so is multiple aircraft delivering dozens of weapons against buildings, vehicles and weapon systems in a compound, for example, having the cumulative effect of making those targets harder or impossible for ISIL to use. Accordingly, officials said, they do not report the number or type of aircraft employed in a strike, the number of munitions dropped in each strike, or the number of individual munition impact points against a target. Part of Operation Inherent Resolve The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat they pose to Iraq, Syria, and the wider international community. The destruction of ISIL targets in Syria and Iraq further limits the terrorist group's ability to project terror and conduct operations, officials said. Coalition nations that have conducted strikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Jordan, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations that have conducted strikes in Syria include the United States, Australia, Bahrain, Canada, France, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Turkey, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Lebanon will offer no apology to Saudi Arabia: Hezbollah Iran Press TV Sun Feb 28, 2016 7:23AM A senior member of Lebanon's Hezbollah resistance movement has slammed the Saudi regime's plot to plunge the country into an "internal strife," saying Lebanon will not apologize for speaking the "word of truth." "Days will show that the Saudi regime made a miscalculated move in its fabricated attack against Lebanon ... especially when it assaulted the sovereignty of all Lebanese," Sheikh Nabil Qaouk, deputy chief of Hezbollah's executive council, said on Saturday. He further reiterated that Hezbollah will not apologize to Saudi Arabia for speaking the "word of truth against the oppressor," stressing that the regime "will have to wait for a long time [for an apology], as we will abide by the right to confront oppression, Takfiri projects and sedition." Ties between Riyadh and Beirut soured when Saudi Arabia retracted a $4-billion aid pledge to Lebanon's security forces last week. The aid suspension came after Beirut did not follow Riyadh's lead and refused to endorse joint anti-Iran statements at separate meetings held in Cairo and Jeddah. On Friday, Saudi Arabia blacklisted four Lebanese firms and three individuals over alleged affiliation to Hezbollah, and imposed sanctions on them. The kingdom also ordered its citizens not to travel to Lebanon, and is poised to expel the Lebanese citizens working on its territory. Riyadh has now demanded an apology from the Beirut government over its anti-Saudi stances. Qaouk further said the Saudi authorities are in "despair" due to their failures in Yemen, Syria, Iraq and Lebanon. "It (Riyadh) is seeking to compensate its losses in the region by fabricating attacks on Lebanon, blackmailing and humiliating the Lebanese and pushing them to engage in internal strife," the Hezbollah official said. He underlined that his country "will not fall victim" to these campaigns and vowed that Hezbollah will remain victorious against what he described as the "enemies of resistance." Prime Minister Tammam Salam has called on all walks of people in Lebanon to stand united amid the Saudi pressures. Several Lebanese ministers have likewise dismissed an apology. "We committed no wrong for which to apologize," Minister of State for Parliamentary Affairs Mohammad Fneish said during a Thursday cabinet meeting. Industry Minister Hussein Hajj Hassan also said, "I don't understand this great equation: we either apologize or we must bear a collective punishment." NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Military operation kills 100 Boko Haram terrorists in Nigeria: Commander Iran Press TV Sun Feb 28, 2016 5:43AM Cameroonian and Nigerian soldiers have conducted a joint operation, killing about 100 members of the Boko Haram Takfiri terrorist group while pushing the militants out of a northeastern Nigerian village, a commander says. General Jacob Kodji, the commander of Cameroonian forces, told The Associated Press on Saturday that the losses on Boko Haram came in the operation for the liberation of Kumshe, situated 15 kilometers (9 miles) from Nigeria's border with Cameroon. The troops rescued several hundred hostages in the village, including young girls who were being trained as bombers, Kodji added. 'Our boys are still on the field with Nigerian soldiers and have received instructions to continue raids on all Boko Haram border villages until we defeat them,' the general stated. In another development on Saturday, Nigeria's Chief of Army Staff Major General Tukur Buratai said the main roads to and from Maiduguri, the capital of Nigeria's volatile northeastern Borno State, have been reopened. The roads were shut in July 2013 after the beginning of a government-imposed state of emergency in Borno and its neighboring provinces. Buratai also noted that a new armed motorbike battalion would patrol the roads in a bid to help soldiers pursue Boko Haram suspects. Some 20,000 people have been killed and more than 2.5 million others made homeless since the beginning of the Boko Haram bloody militancy in Nigeria in 2009. The militants have recently pledged allegiance to the Takfiri Daesh terrorist group, which is primarily operating in Syria and Iraq. Boko Haram, whose name means "Western education is forbidden," has spread its attacks from northeastern Nigeria, its traditional stronghold, to the neighboring countries of Chad, Niger and Cameroon. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Zarif: No damage to be made in Iran's defense, missile program ISNA - Iranian Students' News Agency Sun 28 Feb 2016 - 11:09 TEHRAN (ISNA)- Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad-Javad Zarif reiterated that no damage would be made to Iran's missile program, providing parts and required defense equipment. "We will not get permission from anyone for our missile and defense capability," he said in an exclusive interview with ISNA, adding any damage would be made neither to Iran's missile program nor providing defense equipment. He also said that the US should take actions to remove mental barriers of sanctions more seriously."We are still waiting to see whether the US is serious in its commitment or not.' He noted that Iranian officials would decide about talks with the US on other issues based on national interests, adding that the US still needs to make efforts to win trust of Iranian nation. Iranian foreign minister continued that Saudi Arabia would be worst hit by lessening crude price. "Given Iran's stress to cut reliance on oil and given its Resistance Economy, we will see the least damage from lessening crude price." He said that all regional states, including Saudi Arabia have faced severe crises and they have to revise the policy, adding, the Saudi policy was so harsh. It would be hit by this policy as it was regarding support for Saddam Hossein. The Iranian official said that Iran's views are based on strategic realities of the region. "We emphasize that our region needs security, stability and calm and based on this requirement the Islamic Republic of Iran is pursuing its strategy on regional issues." Asked about Saudi foreign minister's recent remarks, he said, I do not want to give credit to Adel Al-Jubeir by giving response to his remarks. He also said that Omani Foreign Minister Yusuf bin Alawi did not come to Iran for mediation. "He did not come to Iran for mediation. You should know that our ties with Oman are intrinsic not relative." Oman is Iran's neighbor and Iran is making efforts to expand its ties with the country in different domains, Zarif said. The Iranian official said that Saudi Arabia believes that calm in the middle east runs counter to its interests, adding the country along with Zionist regime made severe efforts to bring the JCPOA into deadlock but happily it failed to do so. End Item NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Reformists Make Gains In Iranian Elections February 28, 2016 by RFE/RL Allies of Iran's self-styled moderate President Hassan Rohani have made significant gains in the parliamentary elections, winning all 30 of Tehran's contested seats in parliament, according to the latest results. With the vote count nearing completion on February 28, results also showed moderates gaining against rival hard-liners in the Assembly of Experts -- a body tasked with choosing Iran's next supreme leader. Millions cast their ballots on February 26 to elect the 290-seat parliament as well as members of the 88-strong assembly, which consists of mostly elder and senior clerics. Rohani's ally, former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, is leading the race for the assembly in the Iranian capital. Rohani is currently in the 3rd position. Tehran will send 16 candidates to the assembly. The hard-line cleric Ahmad Jannati, who chairs the powerful Guardian Council, was in 15th position. Two other prominent hard-line clerics, Ayatollah Mohammad and Ayatollah Taghi Mesbah Yazdi, lost their seats, according to the latest results issued by the Interior Ministry. Elsewhere in the country, the parliamentary results appeared to be split between moderates, hard-liners, and independent candidates. Reports suggested that up to 50 seats had no clear winner and could require a second round of voting in April or May. Iranian officials said on February 28 that 90 percent of the votes have been counted in the country's elections. The vote was the first in Iran since the lifting of international sanctions under a landmark nuclear deal reached by Tehran and world powers last year. Reformists had urged voters to cast ballots for a coalition of pro-reform and relatively moderate candidates the so-called List Of Hope -- to prevent the re-election of hard-liners and ultra-conservative clerics. The moderates' gains come despite the disqualification of thousands of candidates, including prominent reformist figures, by hard-liners on the Guardian Council. Reformist and moderate newspapers welcomed the reformist win in Tehran. 'Decisive Win For The List of Hope In Tehran,'the Shargh daily wrote on its front page, which carried a picture of Rohani and Rafsanjani. Prominent Iranian economist Saeed Laylaz, who served as an advisor to former reformist President Mohammad Khatami, told the BBC that the gains by the moderates were beyond their expectations. "In Tehran, it is marvelous, " Laylaz said. He added: "In the whole country, it is beyond our initial expectation because we didn't suppose that we will be in majority together with independent candidates.' Ali Alizadeh, a London-based Iranian analyst, told RFE/RL's Radio Farda that Rohani's political position is likely to be strengthened as the result of the vote. However, he added that the hard-liners have not been defeated. 'These elections are likely to give, to some extent, more power to Rohani and tie the hands of the hard-liners,' Alizadeh said in a telephone interview. 'But the forces known as hard-liners have not been eliminated from the parliament.' Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei praised the 'wise and determined' Iranian nation for its high participation in the twin votes. In a statement released on February 28, Khamenei said those elected to the parliament and the Assembly of Experts, and other Iranian officials, should prioritize Iran's national interests over 'their personal and factional demands.' He also said that they should stand 'bravely' against 'foreign meddling.' "I hope the next parliament will act responsibly towards people and God," Khamenei said in the statement posted on his website. The head of Iran's judiciary Ayatollah Sadegh Amoli Larijani praised people's 'responsible' participation in the vote while accusing reformists of working with Westerners to prevent hard-liners from being reelected to the Assembly of Experts. In a statement issued on February 27, Larijani claimed reformists had coordinated with 'American and English media outlets' to prevent what he called some senior servants of the people from entering the assembly. 'Is this type of coordination with foreigners in order to push out these figures from the Assembly of Experts in the interests of the establishment?' he said in a statement. The powerful Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) also praised the 'high turnout' in the elections, claiming that it demonstrated the commitment of Iranians to 'revolutionary and Islamic values.' 'There is no doubt that the election winners will do their best to protect Iran's dignity, power, and independence; resolve the main issues for society and the people; and defeat the [United States] by their awareness and wisdom,' the IRGC said in a statement published by the hard-line Fars news agency. Iran's Interior Minister Abdolreza Rahmani Fazli said on February 27 that over 60 percent of eligible voters, about 35 million Iranians, had cast their ballots in the elections. With reporting by Radio Farda, Reuters, BBC, AP,IRNA, Fars, ISNA, and Shargh Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/iran-elections-reformist- gains-tehran-parliament-assembly-experts/27578987.html Copyright (c) 2016. 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 Khamenei Praises Iran Vote, Urges Focus on National Interests by VOA News February 28, 2016 Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei called on those elected to parliament and the important Assembly of Experts to act in the interests of Iran and stand against the influence of outsiders. Final results from Saturday's election are expected Monday or Tuesday, but unofficial tallies show reformists and moderates winning all 30 parliamentary seats in the capital, Tehran, in what would be a resounding vote of confidence for President Hassan Rouhani. Hardliners were poised to lose considerable ground in the 290-seat legislature, but were winning areas outside of major cities. Iran is emerging from years of international sanctions imposed because of allegations it was working to develop nuclear weapons. The state-run IRNA news agency quoted Khamenei saying development is the country's top goal. 'Nominal development without independence or national dignity is not accepted,' he said. 'Time to open a new chapter' IRNA quoted Rouhani saying Saturday the election has given the government more credibility and clout. 'The competition is over. It's time to open a new chapter in Iran's economic development based on domestic abilities and international opportunities,' the official IRNA news agency quoted him as saying. The president made last year's nuclear agreement with a group of world powers a key objective of his administration and the outcome could be interpreted as a comment on the level of support for his policies. The final results may also provide the first clue as to whether key Western proponents of the deal will receive what they hoped for: a more open, moderate Iran. Rouhani and former president Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani also are leading the race for membership in the Assembly of Experts. The influential body monitors the work of Supreme Leader Khamenei, who has final say on Iran's foreign policy, and could choose the next supreme leader. Election test of nuclear deal The vote was the first election since the country's nuclear deal with world powers took effect. The final results may provide the first clue as to whether key Western proponents of the deal will receive what they hoped for: a more open, moderate Iran. The outcome could be interpreted as a comment on the level of support for the policies of Rouhani, who is up for re-election next year. Rouhani has made the nuclear agreement a key objective of his administration. Large turnout Newspapers reported a huge turnout at the polls Friday, including many young voters. Polls remained open much later than scheduled, in some cases. State television showed long lines both in Tehran and in polling places around the country. About 55 million Iranians were registered to cast ballots for members of the conservative dominated 290-seat parliament as well as the 88-member Assembly of Experts. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address 70 killed in two Baghdad bomb attacks Iran Press TV Sun Feb 28, 2016 1:30PM Two bomb attacks at a crowded market in the Iraqi capital, Baghdad, have killed at least 70 people, police and medical sources say. The bombs, which also injured 100 people, went off in the mainly Shia Muslim district of Sadr City on Sunday, the sources said. Daesh Takfiri militants claimed responsibility for the blasts. Police said the death toll could rise. Earlier in the day, Daesh Takfiri terrorists launched their largest attack in months on the outskirts of the capital, Baghdad, killing at least a dozen Iraqi forces. Security officials said the terrorists carried out bombing and shooting attacks against a barracks housing security forces in Baghdad's suburb of Abu Ghraib, which is 25 kilometers (15 miles) west of the city center, on Sunday. At least 12 security forces were killed and 35 others wounded. Dozens of militants driving Humvees and pickup trucks with machine guns fixed on them attacked from the nearby Daesh-controlled areas of Garma and Fallujah, army and police sources added. Official sources said Iraqi security forces repelled the attack. The commander of military operations in western Baghdad, Maj. Gen Saad Harbiya, said the situation is "under control" and a local curfew has been imposed. A military statement said at least four attackers were killed. The western suburb of Baghdad has recently been the scene of numerous militant attacks, which have inflicted heavy damage on the area. On Saturday, nearly 10 people lost their lives and almost three dozen others sustained injuries in a spate of bomb attacks in and around Baghdad. Daesh has been ravaging the northern and western areas of Iraq ever since June 2014, when it launched a bloody campaign in the country. The United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq says a total of 849 Iraqis were killed and 1,450 others injured in acts of terrorism, violence and armed conflict in January. According to the UN mission, the number of civilian fatalities stood at 490. Violence also claimed the lives of 359 members of the Iraqi security forces. A great portion of the fatalities was recorded in Baghdad, where 299 civilians were killed. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address IS Launches Twin Attacks on Baghdad Outskirts by Sharon Behn February 28, 2016 Islamic State militants launched twin suicide attacks on the western and eastern outskirts of Baghdad on Sunday, killing dozens of people. The extremists carried out a double bombing in Baghdad's northeastern Shi'ite suburb of Sadr city, killing at least 24 people. In a surprise assault hours earlier, three suicide bombers and gunmen riding pick up trucks stormed into Abu Ghraib, just 25 kilometers west of downtown Baghdad. Shi'ite leader Moqtada al Sadr called upon his followers to protect Baghdad. Residents said Baghdad's International Zone (IZ), home to many embassies and international staff as well as Iraqi government officials, was temporarily put on high alert. Increased numbers of Iraqi forces were also quickly deployed to Baghdad's IZ as well as the capital's international airport, which lies west of the city. By early afternoon, Iraqi officials declared the fighting in Abu Ghraib was over and Baghdad residents said the city was running as normal.. Yousuf al Abadi, a spokesman for the Iraqi Interior Ministry told local media that all militants in the Abu Ghraib assault had been killed and that the situation there was "under control". He said some 30 Iraqi security forces had died in the fight. But by early evening, local media reported that Iraqi fighter jets had joined the fray in Abu Ghraib, and that fighting was still going on in pockets of the city. Abu Ghraib is west of Baghdad, roughly midway between the capital and Fallujah, which is under IS control. The town became notorious following the 2003 invasion of Iraq after photographs showed U.S. troops abusing Iraqi detainees at Abut Ghraib prison. In Sadr City, two bombs ripped through a crowded local mobile phone market. The mainly Shi'ite suburb has been a focal point for sectarian violence for years, with hundreds of people killed in bomb attacks. In August, a truck bomb at another market killed 80 people. IS militants claimed responsibility for that attack. VOA's Ali Javanmardi contributed to this report NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syrian Kurds repel major Daesh attack on northern town Iran Press TV Sat Feb 27, 2016 10:29PM Kurdish forces have repelled a massive Daesh attack on the northern Syrian towns located close to the border with Turkey. The Takfiri terrorists launched an attack to capture Tal Abyad and Suluk early on Saturday, Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) official Redur Xelil said . He added that YPG troops along with Kurdish security forces were able to "crush this attack and encircle the attackers.' The official noted that the towns were attacked from two sides with some terrorists progressing from across the Turkish border and some others from the south. According to Turkish security forces explosions and gunfire could be heard for several hours from the southern Turkish town of Akcakale. The so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights also confirmed the incident, noting that at least 45 Takfiris were killed in the attack, which was later joined by US-led coalition air-support. YPG troops re-took the town from its Daesh occupants last year. It is located north of the militant-held province of Raqqah and was formerly a key supply route for the terrorists. The assault on the town took place just hours after a US-and-Russia-brokered ceasefire came into effect in the war-torn country. Earlier in February, Washington and Moscow had announced that a 'cessation of hostilities' would take effect in Syria on February 27 midnight Damascus time. The Syrian government also accepted the terms of the truce on condition that military efforts against Daesh and the al-Nusra Front Takfiri militants, who are not included in the ceasefire agreement, continue. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address ICRC president: Time to end this horrendous war in Syria IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency Geneva, Feb 28, IRNA -- President of the International Committee of the Red Cross, Peter Maurer, urged the parties to Syrian conflict to allow aid deliveries to all people in need and to continue to work towards a political solution to end the suffering of millions of people. He said there needed to be a concerted effort by all those 'with influence' to bring to an end the devastating war which is entering its sixth year. "After five years of fighting, Syria has become the emblematic war of the early 21st century", said Mr Maurer. "It is highly complex and volatile. There is a plethora of armed actors and weapons. In many areas, civilian infrastructure, including water, electricity and health facilities, has been destroyed or severely damaged. This has led to massive suffering for the people, with millions forced to flee their homes owing to cruel urban warfare." Mr Maurer left Syria today after a 5-day visit during which he met senior Syrian officials. He also met the leadership and volunteers from the Syrian Arab Red Crescent (SARC). He visited Al Waer and the Old City of Homs as well as Yelda, Babila and Beit Sahem in Rural Damascus, where tens of thousands of people have been struggling to survive. In Al Waer, Yelda and Babila, he met civilians who have been affected by the situation and community leaders and committees representing the armed opposition. 'The most urgent thing is to increase humanitarian aid. The ICRC, together with SARC, has consistently expanded its operations, but humanitarian needs are growing even faster. We want to do more, for more people. Humanitarian deliveries must not depend on political negotiations but must be allowed to continue and increase regardless of any truce or ceasefire." 'I urged the Syrian authorities to take immediate and practical steps to allow for an expansion of humanitarian work. Without it, more people will be forced to flee their homes inside Syria, into neighbouring countries and beyond. In my meetings with Syrian officials, I raised our concerns regarding access to besieged and other hard-to-reach areas and the impartial delivery of timely and unimpeded aid to all those who need it. In addition, I indicated our readiness to expand our visits to places of detention, pending authorizations." "I also underlined the right of the wounded and sick to receive medical care and the obligation of all involved in the violence to respect medical personnel, facilities and vehicles. Furthermore, families need to know the fate of missing loved ones. This is an area where the ICRC can offer extensive experience." 'It is time for the warring parties to end this horrendous conflict and for the world powers who can influence the situation to act decisively. Violations of international humanitarian law are a constant and terrible feature of the war in Syria. These violations lead to unimaginable and unnecessary suffering,' said Mr Maurer. 1416**1416 NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Militant rocket attacks kill civilians in Syria's Latakia Iran Press TV Sun Feb 28, 2016 7:24PM A number of Syrian civilians have been killed in a series of rocket attacks by foreign-sponsored Takfiri militants against residential areas in the coastal province of Latakia. Syrian government security source said that the civilians lost their lives when several mortar and rocket shells fired by Takfiri militants struck areas in the northern countryside of Latakia on Sunday, Syria's official news agency, SANA, reported. The projectiles also caused substantial damage to public properties and several houses in the targeted areas. The sources added that the shells were fired from the hills adjacent to the Turkish border. However, Fadi Ahmad, a spokesman for the so-called Free Syrian Army (FSA), denied reports that the armed groups had fired dozens of mortar rounds into rural areas of Latakia Province. The Sunday attack comes as a ceasefire agreed by the United States and Russia took effect in Syria on February 27 midnight Damascus time. The Syrian government accepted the terms of the truce on condition that military efforts against Daesh and the al-Nusra Front Takfiri militants, who are not included in the ceasefire agreement, continue. Syrian army has managed to win back control of several in Latakia, a province where the government of President Bashar al-Assad enjoys considerable support. However, militants, whom Damascus says are backed by Turkey, have been operating in the mountainous regions northeast of the province. The foreign-sponsored conflict in Syria, which flared in March 2011, has claimed the lives of some 470,000 people and left 1.9 million injured, according to the Syrian Center for Policy Research. Moreover, 6.36 million people have been displaced internally and more than four million others have fled the country since the beginning of the conflict. That accounts for 45 percent of the country's population, which has shrunk by 21 percent. Syria accuses Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Qatar of funding and arming terrorist groups operating inside the country, including Daesh. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Russia registers 9 truce violations in Syria in past 24 hours Iran Press TV Sun Feb 28, 2016 3:13PM A Russian ceasefire monitoring center in Syria says it has registered at least nine truce violations in Syria over the past 24 hours. Lieutenant General Sergei Kuralenko, the head of Russian coordination center in Syria, said the violations included shelling in the northern province of Latakia. However, Kuralenko noted that the cessation of hostilities agreed as part of a US-Russian plan was holding 'in general.' Russia recently opened the coordination center at its Hmeymim airbase in Latakia in an attempt to facilitate talks and the implementation of a monitoring ceasefire mechanism between Damascus and different opposing parties. Meanwhile, Rodi Osman, the head of the Syrian Kurdish mission to Moscow, has also said that Turkish forces have once again fired shells into Syrian towns controlled by Kurdish forces, violating a ceasefire that has recently come into effect in the Arab country. He added that Turkey must be urged to stop 'violating Syria's sovereignty.' Sergey Rudskoy, the chief of the main operations department of the Russian General Staff, announced at a recent briefing that at least seventy Russian surveillance drones will be monitoring the ceasefire across the Arab country. Rudskoy added that hotlines have been established to ensure the quick exchange of information between the Russian ceasefire coordinating center in Syria and the US one in neighboring Jordan. A ceasefire agreed by the United States and Russia took effect in Syria on February 27 midnight Damascus time. The Syrian government also accepted the terms of the truce on condition that military efforts against Daesh and the al-Nusra Front Takfiri militants, who are not included in the ceasefire agreement, continue. According to a statement by Syrian Foreign Ministry, the country's military, however, reserves the right to 'respond to any breach by these groups against Syrian citizens or against its armed forces.' The ceasefire agreement in Syria has revived hopes that the truce would lead to an end of nearly five years of war in the country. Also on Sunday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said the fight against terrorism should be conducted through joint international efforts, and that double standards, selfish ambitions, and disputes need to be set aside. Lavrov said terrorism can only be confronted through the joint efforts of the international community. The top Russian diplomat called on the United Nations to play the role of a central coordinator in the anti-terror efforts. Lavrov added that it's necessary to put aside disagreements, ambitions, and preconditions, and get united in order to defeat the Daesh terrorists whom he said have challenged human civilization. Over the past few weeks, Syrian government forces have managed to retake major positions from the foreign-backed militants in Syria. Nearly five years of deadly turmoil have left more than 470,000 people dead and millions displaced, according to some reports. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Turkey violates Syria truce by shelling Kurds: Kurdish official Iran Press TV Sun Feb 28, 2016 10:50AM A senior Kurdish official says Turkish forces have once again fired shells into Syrian towns controlled by Kurdish forces, violating a ceasefire that has recently come into effect in the Arab country. 'The first violation of UN Security Council Resolution 2268 has been made by Turkey. Its troops shelled the cities of Tal Abyad and Uslub," head of the Syrian Kurdish mission to Moscow, Rodi Osman, told Russia's Interfax news agency. He added that Turkey must be urged to stop 'violating Syria's sovereignty.' The comments come as a ceasefire agreed by the United States and Russia took effect in Syria on February 27 midnight Damascus time. The Syrian government also accepted the terms of the truce on condition that military efforts against Daesh and the al-Nusra Front Takfiri militants, who are not included in the ceasefire agreement, continue. A few days before the implementation of the truce, Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan compared the Kurdish People's Protection Units (YPG) and its affiliate, the Democratic Union Party (PYD), with Takfiri terror groups in Syria, saying if Daesh and al-Nusra are kept outside the truce, "then the PYD-YPG must similarly be excluded from the ceasefire for it is a terrorist group just as they are." Ankara regards the YPG and PYD as allies of the Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK), which has been fighting for an autonomous Kurdish region inside Turkey since the 1980s. The YPG, which is nearly in control of Syria's entire northern border with Turkey, has been fighting against Daesh Takfiri terrorists. The government in Ankara is angered by the rapid advance of Syrian Kurdish fighters in areas near the Turkish border. Osman, meanwhile, told Russia's Sputnik news agency that Turkish forces have been carrying out attacks on Kurds in Turkey's southeast in the cruelest ways that remind one of Daesh. "The international community should see all these atrocities and judge Erdogan," Osman said, adding that the Turkish leader does not hide his hostility toward the Kurdish people and insists on denying them their rights. Ankara has been engaged in a large-scale campaign against the PKK in its southern border region in the past few months. However, activists argue that clashes have led to the death of civilians and inflicted major damage to the buildings and infrastructure in the southeastern region of the country. Daesh terrorists come from Turkey: Russia Meanwhile, in a separate development on Sunday, the Russian ceasefire monitoring center in Syria said it is verifying reports that a Saturday attack on the Kurdish town of Tal Abyad was carried out by militants coming from Turkey. "This information was verified though multiple channels, including representatives of the Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF), (a coalition of Kurdish, Arab, Assyrian, Armenian, and Turkmen fighters, backed by the YPG," said Lieutenant General Sergei Kuralenko, who heads the center for Syrian reconciliation. He added that Moscow has asked for clarification from the US center based in Amman as Washington has influence on Turkey, a member of the so-called US-led coalition which is purportedly targeting positions of Daesh in Syria and Iraq. The Takfiri terrorists launched an attack to capture Tal Abyad and Suluk early on Saturday, YPG official Redur Xelil said, adding that the towns were attacked from two sides with some terrorists progressing from across the Turkish border and some others from the south. Ankara has widely been blamed for the surge in the deadly militancy in Syria as it has been supporting militants with funds, training and weapons. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Syrian army kills 35 Daesh terrorists near Tal Abyad Iran Press TV Sun Feb 28, 2016 8:15AM At least 35 Takfiri Daesh terrorists have been killed in clashes with the Syrian army on the suburbs of the conflict-ridden country's northern town of Tal Abyad. Syria's official SANA news agency reported that dozens of the militants were also injured and a number of their vehicles destroyed during the Saturday clashes near the border town. Syrian forces also managed to annihilate a Daesh-owned explosives-laden vehicle on the outskirts of the city of Salamiyah in Hama Province. Separately, the Syrian Air Force bombarded the positions of Daesh near the eastern city of Dayr al-Zawr. Meanwhile, the so-called Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said a number of foreign-backed militants were killed in clashes with Syrian troops in the southern province of Dara'a. Also on Saturday, Lebanon's al-Ahed news website reported that the town of Rabia in Syria's Latakia Province was liberated from the al-Qaeda-linked al-Nusra Front. Syria has been grappling with foreign-backed militancy since March 2011. According to a recent report by the Syrian Center for Policy Research, the conflict has claimed the lives of over 470,000 people, injured 1.9 million others, and displaced nearly half of the country's pre-war population of about 23 million within or beyond its borders. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Despite Air Strikes, Syria Truce Appears To Be Intact On Second Day February 28, 2016 Monitors in Syria say several air strikes struck targets in northwestern and central parts of the country on February 28, but a truce between government troops and moderate opposition forces appeared to be broadly intact on its second day. The British-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights says its monitors reported air strikes by either Syrian or Russian warplanes at six towns in Aleppo Province and one village in the province of Hama. The observatory's director, Rami Abulrahman, said it was not clear whether the air strikes hit areas covered by the truce. Russia's monitoring center in Syria registered what it said were nine cease-fire violations since on February 27, but it said the truce was holding 'in general.' Meanwhile, Russian military officials said they contacted a U.S.-operated coordination center in Jordan's capital, Amman, on February 28 for clarification about what the Kremlin says were artillery attacks on Syrian territory from Turkey. The truce does not include territory held by Islamic State militants or the Al-Qaeda linked Al-Nusra Front. Together, those militant extremist groups control about half of the territory in Syria. The Russian center in Syria says U.S. officials have sent a list of 69 armed opposition groups which have agreed to the terms of the cease-fire. The Russian center also said it has received declarations of agreement with the truce from 17 armed groups that are members of Syria's 'moderate' opposition. Saudi Arabia's foreign minister, meanwhile, said it is raising concerns with international powers about what it says are violations of the conditions of the truce by Russian and Syrian government forces. A spokesman for Syria's main opposition umbrella group said on February 28 that the High Negotiations Committee has asked U.S. officials for information about how the monitoring of the truce works but has yet to receive an answer. The spokesman,Monzer Makhous, said the opposition will continue to back the truce -- despite what he said were 15 violations by government forces and their allies on February 27. United Nations monitors reported only isolated fire during the first day of the truce. UN diplomats said they hope the truce will provide a window for humanitarian aid to reach Syrian civilians who have been trapped for months in areas that are besieged by Syrian government forces. UN envoy Staffan de Mistura said, that if the truce holds, he plans to start a second round of peace talks on March 7. With reporting by Reuters, AP, TASS, and Interfax Source: http://www.rferl.org/content/syria-truce-intact-air-strikes/27578708.html Copyright (c) 2016. 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 Plans underway in Ukraine to 'regain Crimea' Iran Press TV Sat Feb 27, 2016 10:22PM Kiev is preparing a special military unit in a bid to retake Crimea, the Ukrainian premier says. "We are working on a project that will prepare us to regain Crimea," said Arsen Avakov, RT reported on Saturday. Crimea declared independence from Ukraine on March 17, 2014 and formally applied to become part of Russia following a referendum a day earlier, in which 96.8 percent of participants voted in favor of the secession. "We have nothing. We need a new army, a new National Guard, a new police force. This is what the government of Ukraine is working on right now. We must restore all of this, and then, with enough will, Crimea will be ours," added Avakov, insisting "I have no doubt of that." He further stated that Kiev is currently training a separate special force within the Ukrainian National Guard. Crimean officials, meanwhile, reacted strongly to the remarks by the Ukrainian minister emphasizing that an invasion would be repelled. This is while Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko (pictured below) commissioned the country's defense ministry and the General Staff of the Armed Forces on Friday to draft plans to reinforce the border between Ukraine and Crimea. "The Defense Ministry and the General Staff of the Ukrainian Armed Forces have been told to submit proposals on a considerable buildup of Ukraine's defense capabilities in the Kherson region and along the entire Black Sea coast," said a statement issues by the presidential press service. The main objective of the plan is to counter the Russian army's surging capabilities in Crimea, according to the Ukrainian Western-backed president. Crimean authorities have dismissed Kiev's latest military threats as a bid to "justify increasing defense expenditures in Ukraine." The development came a day after the chiefs of top US spy agencies predicted persisting upheavals in Ukraine during testimonies before the House of Representatives Intelligence Committee. Head of US National Intelligence James Clapper alleged that Russia still views Ukraine as 'Little Russia,' adding that Moscow 'will continue, I think, to be a proxy for separatists to sustain their interests in Ukraine.' CIA Director John Brennan also stated that there is 'still uncertainty about how the Russians themselves are going to extricate themselves' from the Ukraine conflict. Washington and Moscow have persistently been trading allegations about each other's extent of involvement in the crisis with Russia fiercely rejecting a military role in the conflict while accusing the US of leading a growing Western military presence close to its borders. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address Ukraine military forces shell Donetsk airport, Luhansk Iran Press TV Sun Feb 28, 2016 10:34AM The Ukrainian army has shelled the airport in the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) and the territory of the self-proclaimed Luhansk People's Republic (LPR) in violation of a shaky truce in the eastern regions of Ukraine. 'The Ukrainian army opened fire on the airport at about 10 p.m. The shelling stopped at 11 p.m.' on Saturday, said a security source in the law enforcement agencies of the DPR. Separately, the LPR sources reported that the Ukrainian army violated the truce seven times on Saturday. According to the sources, anti-tank and automatic grenade launchers, small arms and a large-caliber machine gun were used in the raids, but 'there are no casualties or damage.' The Kiev government, for its turn, reported shelling attacks on army positions in eastern Ukraine, also known as Donbass. The army press center claimed that its forces came under attack 40 times near the city of Krasnohorivka. Army positions were attacked by small arms, large-caliber machine guns and various types of grenade launchers, the press center said. Donetsk and Luhansk, the two mainly Russian-speaking regions in eastern Ukraine, have been hit by deadly clashes between pro-Russia forces and the Ukrainian army since Kiev launched military operations in April 2014 to crush pro-Russia protests there. During peace talks in the Belarusian capital city of Minsk on February 11-12, 2015, the leaders of Germany, France, Russia and Ukraine reached a deal, dubbed Minsk II, on the withdrawal of heavy weapons from Ukraine's front lines and a ceasefire, which officially went into effect on February 15. The two sides, however, have continued to engage in sporadic clashes. According to the United Nations, over 9,000 people have lost their lives and some 20,000 have been injured in the conflict in eastern Ukraine since April 2014. NEWS LETTER Join the GlobalSecurity.org mailing list Enter Your Email Address VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA / TheNewswire / February 29, 2016 / MGX Minerals Inc. ("MGX" or the "Company") (CSE: XMG / FKT: 1MG) is pleased to announce, further to its February 23rd press release, the Company has engaged Cementation AG (Above Ground Division) for the process and pilot plant engineering of a 20,000 barrel per day (bpd) lithium, potassium and magnesium extraction plant. The plant is projected to produce up to 500 tonnes of lithium carbonate annually and provide sufficient data for development of a large scale commercial facility. Engineering work has commenced on an initial scoping study for the pilot plant and completion is expected within four weeks with the scope of work to include process and plant design as well as OPEX and CAPEX projections. Cementation AG Cementation AG holds expertise in the handling and processing of industrial and energy minerals from scoping study through construction, operations, and maintenance. The lithium plant engineering team is being led by Cementation AG's process engineers with extensive experience in process design, metallurgy and operations. Cementation AG process engineers have supported projects with Suncor, Intrepid Potash, Copper Mountain, Rio Tinto, Phelps Dodge, Hudbay Minerals, and others. "We have confidence that Cementation AG has the expertise to bring our Alberta Lithium Fields project to the development and operational phases. Cementation AG's process engineers hold a unique understanding of brine chemistry and the oil industry necessary to successfully design Canada's first lithium brine facility," stated MGX Chief Executive Officer Jared Lazerson. Lithium Properties MGX Minerals has entered into a Purchase Agreement to acquire a 100% undivided interest in 12 Metallic and Industrial Mineral Permits and Permit Applications encompassing 96,000 hectares throughout the Province of Alberta. The Properties were acquired based on compilation of historic oil and gas well data and known geology. Lithium, potassium and magnesium rich brines have been identified with historic levels of lithium reported up to 140 Mg/L. This is the highest reported levels of lithium for existing wells in the Province as reported in the provincial industrial mineral database. Qualified Person This press release was prepared under the supervision and review of Andris Kikauka, P. Geo. and Vice President of Exploration for MGX Minerals. Mr. Kikauka is a non-independent Qualified Person within the meaning of National Instrument (N.I.) 43-101 Standards. About Cementation AG Cementation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Murray & Roberts. Murray & Roberts is a leading engineering and construction services company headquartered in Johannesburg, South Africa, and is listed on the JSE Limited. It has offices in South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Zambia and Ghana, the United Emirates, Australia and South Korea, Scotland, Canada, the USA and Chile. Cementation AG was formed to complement the Cementation Underground Group as well as pursue other bulk material handling and minerals processing opportunities globally. About MGX Minerals MGX Minerals (CSE: XMG) is a diversified Canadian mining company engaged in the acquisition and development of industrial mineral deposits in western Canada that offer near-term production potential, minimal barriers to entry and low initial capital expenditures. The Company operates the Driftwood Creek magnesium project located in the East Kootenay Region of British Columbia. MGX has recently received approval of a 20 year mining lease for Driftwood and bulk sampling is currently underway. For further information, please visit the Company's website at www.mgxminerals.com. Contact Information Jared Lazerson Chief Executive Officer Telephone: 604.681.7735 Email: jared@mgxminerals.com Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements 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: "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "potentially" and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by the Company is not a guarantee of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking information as a result of various factors. The reader is referred to the Company's public filings for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects which may be accessed through the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Copyright (c) 2016 TheNewswire - All rights reserved. VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA--(Marketwired - Feb 29, 2016) - West Kirkland Mining Inc. (TSX VENTURE:WKM) (the "Company") provides an important update on its Hasbrouck Gold Project in Nevada. The public comment period for the final state permit for construction of the Three Hills mine closed on February 23, 2016 with no comments received. A Federal Decision Record for the Three Hills part of the Hasbrouck Project was obtained in November 2015 and the last permit required for construction and operation is expected from Nevada in the next 60 days. The Three Hills mine is a run-of-mine open pit heap leach operation and is the first phase of the Hasbrouck Gold Project. The second phase is an open pit crushed-ore heap leach operation at the Hasbrouck mine to the south. West Kirkland Mining owns 75% of the Hasbrouck Project and is the operator. Combined Measured and Indicated resources (100% basis) of both the Hasbrouck and Three Hills deposits contain 927,000 ounces of gold and 14.1 million ounces of silver. Inferred resources at both deposits contain an additional 136,000 oz of gold and 2.2 million ounces of silver. Reserves for both deposits contain approximately 762,000 ounces of gold and 10.6 million ounces of silver. Tonnage and grade of all resources and reserves are summarized below. The July 2015 pre-feasibility study planned 71,000 ounce of gold per year over 8 years. The Three Hills mine will provide 2 to 3 years of production as a low cost open pit run-of-mine heap leach operation, generating substantially all cash needed to build the second phase at Hasbrouck mine. The Company's 2015 pre-feasibility study has been filed on SEDAR and is available on the Company's website (www.wkmining.com). CEO R. Michael Jones, P.Eng said "The current gold price is right on our assumptions in the Hasbrouck Pre-feasibility Study (US$ 1,225) and it is an ideal time for the permitting to be completed. Hasbrouck is one of the only truly shovel-ready gold heap leach projects in Nevada. The ability to start in ore at surface at Three Hills and put run-of mine material on the heap leach with a very good gold recovery adds to the attractiveness of the project." Since the November 2015 Federal Decision Record, the Company has developed a detailed execution plan for the construction of the Three Hills mine. This has both confirmed and developed the July 2015 pre-feasibility study findings. The Company continues permitting the larger Hasbrouck Peak open pit and is preparing to make a construction decision at Three Hills as market conditions improve. West Kirkland also holds a 60% interest in the open pit heap leach TUG Gold deposit in Utah in Joint Venture with Newmont. About the Hasbrouck Gold Project Located near Tonopah, Nevada, the Hasbrouck Gold Project consists of two oxidized gold deposits eight kilometers apart, Three Hills and Hasbrouck. West Kirkland has a 75% controlling interest in the project. In 2015, Waterton Precious Metals Fund II Cayman, LP bought a 25% interest in the Hasbrouck Gold Project and certain exploration assets for US $17.5 million. All numbers presented below are on a 100% basis. 567,000 recoverable gold ounces, 71,000 ounces annual production for 8 years US $708 adjusted operating costs per ounce, US $779 all-in sustaining costs US $90.6 million Pre-Tax NPV (5%), 29% IRR at US $1,225/oz Au and US $17.50/oz Ag US $75.3 million After-Tax NPV (5%), 26% IRR at US $1,225/oz Au and US $17.50/oz Ag US $54.3 million initial capital Hasbrouck Project Resources and Reserves Resources are reported inclusive of reserves. Hasbrouck Deposit Reported Mineral Resources* November 3, 2014 Mine Development Associates (0.006oz AuEq/ton Cut-off) Class Tons oz Au/ton oz Au oz Ag/ton oz Ag Measured 8,261,000 0.017 143,000 0.357 2,949,000 Indicated 45,924,000 0.013 595,000 0.243 11,147,000 M+I 54,185,000 0.014 738,000 0.26 14,096,000 Inferred 11,772,000 0.009 104,000 0.191 2,249,000 Notes: oz AuEq/ton = oz Au/ton + (oz Ag/ton x 0.000417) Three Hills Reported Mineral Resources* August 4, 2014 Mine Development Associates (0.005oz Au/ton Cut-off) Class Tons oz Au/ton oz Au Indicated 10,897,000 0.017 189,000 Inferred 2,568,000 0.013 32,000 Notes: (1) CIM definitions are followed for classification of Mineral Resources. 100% Project Basis (2) Mineral Resources are estimated using a gold price of US $1,300 per ounce and a silver price of US $22 per ounce. (3) Totals may not represent the sum of the parts due to rounding. (4) The Mineral Resources have been prepared by Paul Tietz, C.P.G of Mine Development Associates in conformity with CIM "Estimation of Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserves Best Practices" guidelines and are reported in accordance with the Canadian Securities Administrators NI43-101. Mineral resources are not mineral reserves and do not have demonstrated economic viability. There is no certainty that all mineral resource will be converted into mineral reserve. Proven and Probable reserves total 45.3 million tons containing 762,000 ounces gold and 10.6 million ounces silver as detailed below: Hasbrouck Project Reserves June 3, 2015 Mine Development Associates (1,2) Three Hills K tons Grade K oz Au oz Ag/ton K oz Ag (oz Au/ton) 0.005 opt Proven - - - - - Au cut-off Probable 9,653 0.018 175 - - P&P 9,653 0.018 175 - - Hasbrouck Variable(3) Proven 6,242 0.020 127 0.410 2,562 Probable 29,374 0.016 461 0.273 8,007 P&P 35,617 0.017 588 0.297 10,569 Total Hasbrouck Project Variable(3) Proven 6,242 0.020 127 0.410 2,562 Probable 39,028 0.016 635 0.205 8,007 P&P 45,270 0.017 762 0.233 10,569 Notes: (1) The estimation and classification of Proven and Probable reserves have been prepared by Thomas L. Dyer, P.E., of Mine Development Associates following CIM standards. 100% Project Basis. (2) Reserves are estimated based on US $1,225/oz gold and US $17.50/oz silver. (3) Cut-off grades used for reserves are: Three Hills 0.005 oz Au/ton, Hasbrouck Upper Siebert 0.008 oz Au/ton, and Hasbrouck Lower Siebert 0.007 oz Au/ton. See Technical Report on SEDAR filed July 17, 2015 and the News Release dated June 3, 2015 for risk factors, QAQC and other details. Qualified Persons The Prefeasibility Study and Mineral Resource Estimate were prepared in conformance with NI 43-101 by Mine Development Associates (MDA). The report was prepared by Thomas L. Dyer, P.E. and Paul Tietz, C.P.G. of MDA, with contributions by Herb Osborne, Metallurgical Eng., SME, of H.C. Osborne & Associates (metallurgy), Ryan Baker, P.E., of Newfields (civil and heap leach) and Carl Defilippi, SME, of Kappes Cassiday & Associates (process design). Each person is a "Qualified Person" under NI 43-101 and has reviewed and approved the information in this news release relevant to the portion of the Hasbrouck prefeasibility study for which they are responsible. MDA has reviewed and verified the data disclosed in this news release to be in conformity with generally accepted CIM "Estimation of Mineral Resource and Mineral Reserves Best Practices" guidelines. Sandy McVey, P.Eng., Chief Operating Officer for West Kirkland, and a non-independent Qualified Person as defined by NI 43-101, has reviewed the information contained in this news release and has verified the data. About West Kirkland Mining Inc. West Kirkland was formed in 2010 to focus on gold exploration along major geological trends in North America. The Company has consolidated significant mineral rights positions within known gold trends of Nevada and Utah, including the Hasbrouck and Three Hills properties in southern Nevada. The founders, management, and board members of West Kirkland have extensive experience in gold discovery, mine development, and mine operations in Nevada and other gold producing jurisdictions in North America. The founders have a successful track record of international mining finance. Disclaimer for Forward-Looking Information 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: "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "intend", "estimate", "postulate" and similar expressions, or are those, which, by their nature, refer to future events. Forward-looking information in this news release includes, without limitation, the statements regarding the use of proceeds, ability to achieve the recoveries and the processing capacity of the mines; regulatory processes and permitting; estimates of gold or other minerals grades; anticipated costs, anticipated sales, project economics, the realization of expansion and construction activities and the timing thereof; production estimates and other statements that are not historical facts. Information concerning mineral resource/reserve estimates and the economic analysis thereof contained in the prefeasibility study are also forward-looking statements in that they reflect a prediction of the mineralization that would be encountered, and the results of mining it, if a mineral deposit were developed and mined. Although West Kirkland believes that such timing and expenses as set out in this press release are reasonable, it can give no assurance that such expectations and estimates will prove to be correct. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking information provided by the Company is not a guarantee of future results or performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking information as a result of various factors, including, but not limited to, the state of the financial markets for the Company's equity securities, the state of the market for gold or other minerals that may be produced generally, significant increases in any of the machinery, equipment or supplies required to develop and operate a mine, a significant change in the availability or cost of the labor force required to operate a mine, a significant increases in the cost of transportation for the Company's products, variations in the nature, quality and quantity of any mineral deposits that may be located, the Company's ability to obtain any necessary permits, consents or authorizations required for its activities, to raise the necessary capital or to be fully able to implement its business strategies and other risks associated with the exploration and development of mineral properties. The reader is referred to the Company's public filings for a more complete discussion of such risk factors and their potential effects which may be accessed through the Company's profile on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Cautionary Note to U.S. Investors Regarding the Use of Mining Terms This press release has been prepared in accordance with the securities laws in effect in Canada, which differ from the requirements of U.S. securities laws. Unless otherwise indicated, all resources and reserve estimates included in this press release have been prepared in accordance with National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and the Canadian Institute of Mining, Metallurgy, and Petroleum Definition Standards on Mineral Resources and Mineral Reserves. NI 43-101 is a rule developed by the Canadian Securities Administrators which establishes standards for all public disclosure an issuer makes of scientific and technical information concerning mineral projects. Canadian standards, including NI 43-101, differ significantly from the requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") Industry Guide 7, and resource or reserve information contained herein may not be comparable to similar information disclosed by U.S. companies. In particular, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing, "resources" and "reserves" established under NI 43-101 standards may not qualify as "resources" and "reserves" under U.S. standards. Under U.S. standards, mineralization may not be classified as a "reserve" unless the determination has been made that the mineralization could be economically and legally produced or extracted at the time the reserve determination is made. In addition, under U.S. 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. Disclosure of "contained ounces" in a resource is permitted disclosure under Canadian regulations; 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 measures. Accordingly, information concerning mineral deposits set forth in this press release may not be comparable with information made public by companies that report in accordance with U.S. standards. 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. Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - February 29, 2016) - DNI Metals Inc. (CSE: DNI) (FSE: DG7N) is pleased to provide a corporate update regarding the following corporate milestones: DNI's Wholesale business: DNI is pleased to be a partner with Great Lakes Graphite and recently supplied 40 tonnes to Great Lakes as press released on Thursday February 16th 2016 by the Company. http://www.greatlakesgraphite.com/2016/02/16/great-lakes-graphite-announces-receipt-of-initial-purchase-order/. DNI continues to grow its graphite wholesale business to build relationships between graphite producers and offtake partners. Progress on the Purchase of DNI Labs: The current owners of the Lab have agreed to increase the Vendor Take Back (VTB) in regards to the purchase of the lab. DNI has been presented with several additional options to close the purchase, and is assessing each. Acquisition of 2 mining companies: DNI continues to work through the due diligence processes on the acquisitions of 2 Companies, CR Capital and a private mining company, as announced by DNI on January 28, 2016 http://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/19025/DNI-Metals-Signs-NonBinding-Letter-of-Intents-LOIs-to-Acquire-Two-Companies#.VsnPUDbSnIU. Changes to DNI's Management Team: DNI would like to announce that Colin Grant, DNI's current CFO is retiring, we wish him all the best. DNI is pleased to announce that Brian Howlett, CEO of CR Capital, will step in as interim CFO. "Each component adds so much value and depth to DNI," says Dan Weir, CEO of DNI. "We are focused on building a vertically integrated industrial metals company, and owning a lab, securing offtake agreements and bolstering our management team, demonstrates that we're on the right track." PDAC Presentation: CEO Dan Weir has been asked to present during PDAC at the CSE, MNP LLP and Equities.com Luncheon on Tuesday March 8th 11:30am - 1pm at the Intercontinental Hotel, Ballroom A. Neither the CSE nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. DNI - Canadian Securities Exchange DG7N - Frankfurt Issued: 31,386,204 For further information, contact: DNI Metals Inc. - Dan Weir, President & CEO 416-595-1195 DanWeir@dnimetals.com Katrin Tosine Capital Markets and Investor Relations Advisor kat@dnimetals.com 647.388.4984 email ir@dnimetals.com. Also visit www.dnimetals.com We seek Safe Harbour. This announcement includes forward looking statements. While these statements represent DNI's best current judgment, they are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to vary, including risk factors listed in DNI's Annual Information Form and its MD&As, all of which are available from SEDAR and on its website. Caution 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, among other things, to: the anticipated benefits of the Transaction to the Company and shareholders of the Company; the pro forma shareholdings of the Company's shareholders in DNI; execution of the Definitive Agreement, the timing and receipt of the required shareholder, stock exchange and regulatory approvals for the Transaction; the anticipated timing for mailing the management information circular to the shareholders of the Company in respect of the Transaction; the closing of the Transaction; the length of the current market cycle and requirements for an issuer to survive in the current market cycle; future growth potential of DNI and its business; and future mine development plans. These forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions and estimates of management of the Company at the time such statements were made. Actual future results may differ materially as forwardlooking statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to materially differ from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors, among other things, include: satisfaction or waiver of all applicable conditions to closing of the Transaction (including receipt of all necessary shareholder, stock exchange and regulatory approvals or consents, and the absence of material changes with respect to the parties and their respective businesses); the synergies expected from the Transaction not being realized; business integration risks; fluctuations in general macroeconomic conditions; fluctuations in securities markets and the market price of the DNI Shares and the Company Shares; fluctuations in spot and forward prices of graphite or certain other commodities; fluctuations in currency markets (such as the Canadian dollar to United States dollar exchange rate); change in national and local government, legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments; 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 and flooding); inability to obtain adequate insurance to cover risks and hazards; the presence of laws and regulations that may impose restrictions on mining; employee relations; relationships with and claims by local communities and indigenous populations; availability of increasing costs associated with mining inputs and labour; the speculative nature of mineral exploration and development (including the risks of obtaining necessary licenses, permits and approvals from government authorities); and title to properties. In addition, the failure of a party to comply with the terms of the Definitive Agreement (assuming the Definitive Agreement is entered into) may result in that party being required to pay a non-completion or other fee to the other party, the result of which could have a material adverse effect on the paying party's financial position and results of operations and its ability to fund growth prospects and current operations. Although the forward-looking statements contained in this news release are based upon what management of the Company believes, or believed at the time, to be reasonable assumptions, the Company cannot assure shareholders that actual results will be consistent with such forward-looking statements, as there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release. Except as required by law, the Company assumes no obligation to update the forward looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law. Italian classic: Vitello tonnato. Photo: Wayne Taylor Address 221 Queen Street Melbourne, Victoria 3000 View map Opening hours Mon-Fri noon-3pm Features Accepts bookings, Bar, Business lunch, Events, Family friendly, Groups, Licensed, Lunch specials, Long lunch, Vegetarian friendly Prices Expensive (mains over $40) Chef Jerry Kim Payments Diner's Club, eftpos, AMEX, Visa, Mastercard Phone 03 9670 8488 There are some certainties at Caterina's, a 20-year-old business lunch hub in a blessedly old-fashioned basement. You can count on owner Caterina Borsato being there, seeing all, reading the room, delivering each diner the experience they are there for. That might be a quick sanity break and bowl of pasta on a trying day, or a deal-making lunch in a quiet corner shielded by a serious bottle of red. You can bet there'll be more men than women and that they'll be superintended by female Italian waiters. You can be sure that the collection of empty magnums (big wine bottles) and jeroboams (even bigger bottles) will grow every week, and that these walls could spill a few tales. Most of all, you can be sure that you'll have a good time. Grilled swordfish resting on eggplant lasagne. Photo: Wayne Taylor The food is Italian, deft and heartfelt, leaning to the Veneto but not slavishly so, and featuring produce grown by Borsato's mother in Gippsland. Chef Jerry Kim's light touch is evident in dishes like the vitello tonnato, a restrained rendition of the classic veal and tuna entree. Girello is seared then steamed rather than poached, so the meat is flavourful and moist, and merely dabbed with tuna mayonnaise. The menu is hefty but the specials are where the action is. One of the most enjoyable certainties at Caterina's is that your waiter will recite the dishes of the day by heart, a performance which takes some minutes and includes I don't know a dozen dishes of varying complexity, and before you know it you don't know whether to applaud or cry or order one of everything and simply move in. Tortelli pasta, tinged with beetroot, stuffed with sea bass, is tossed with delicate but rounded fish stock and sweet scallops. Sea-bass-stuffed tortelli pasta with scallops. Photo: Wayne Taylor There's always braised meat (we lucked onto goat, which fell stickily from the bone into creamy polenta) and game fish (swordfish, grilled pink, resting on eggplant lasagne). It's good stuff, cooked well, with care. There's technique aplenty if you care to notice it, but if you'd rather focus on table talk, neither food nor waitstaff will interrupt with grandstanding flourishes. A chocolate budino pudding thickened with biscuits is glossy, smooth and more or less faithful to Borsato's nonna's recipe. CBD basement restaurant: Inside Caterina's Cucina and Bar. Photo: Wayne Taylor The final certainty is that you'll stay longer than anticipated. Sipping a macchiato, eating petit fours I couldn't possibly fit in, I puzzled over the fact that it seemed to be school pick-up time just minutes after 1pm. That's not just wine, that's hospitality. Caterina's makes a persuasive case that long lunches are a must, even if they can't be expensed, and should be rostered into every eater's life. Rating: Four stars (out of five) http://caterinas.com.au/ John Lawson has left No. 8 to chase his dream. Photo: Supplied John Lawson has left the building. After almost three years with his name on the door at Crown's No.8 by John Lawson, the British chef has quit to chase his dream restaurant. Lawson, 33, came to Melbourne in 2010 after getting a call from Gordon Ramsay to head up Ramsay's short-lived Crown Metropol restaurant Maze, jumping across to No.8 when it closed. A serious health scare last year has prompted Lawson's latest move. After recovering from a brain tumour and returning to the kitchen, Lawson felt he'd lost the love. "I want to do my own thing without too many restrictions. I feel I've got more in me. I have this dream of a small place outside the city." He's scoping out the Mornington Peninsula for somewhere quaint, where he can grow vegetables and run a small restaurant and cooking classes. Meanwhile Crown is rethinking the concept for the 13-year-old restaurant. Western? Eastern? Everything is up for discussion, says the executive general manager of food and beverage, Mark Holmes. Until the decision is made, the restaurant will revert to No. 8, with a menu of favourites such as salt and pepper calamari, porcini risotto and dry-aged grass-fed steak. SHARE Celebrating Texas Independence Day, a free download for you! Celebrate Texas Independence Day, which is observed on Wednesday, March 2, with some excellent, and free music featuring some of the best performers currently in San Antonio. The two-volume Roots in the Shadowlands of San Antonio is a free download that included 26 tracks by more familiar artists like the Hickoids and Los #3 Dinners, along with several gems from lesser known performers such as I Ching Vatos, Apache 65 and Puppy Jet. For the free download visit http://look306.wix.com/rootsintheshadows Produced by Phillip Luna and Jason Trevino, the collection is a salute to the vibrant diversity of San Antonios music scene. The music showcased reveals that theres more than Tejano and Tex Mex music coming out of Alamo City. Thats evident on songs such as A.M. Lover on the Windowsill, a twangy Georgia Satellites influenced rocker by the citys popular cowpunks , the Hickoids and the hard-rocking Make it Glow by the Dark Planes. Texas Independence Day, which is an official holiday in Texas, commemorates the adoption of the Texas Declaration of Independence on March 2, 1836. This event marked Texas independence from Mexico. The Republic of Texas was annexed to the US by joint resolution of the US Congress nine years after the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed. The US Congress then admitted Texas as a constituent state of the Union on December 29, 1845. SHARE By Staff Report Hermitage hosts Christmas concert A Christmas concert called "A Little Christmas Night at the Hermitage" is planned for 7 p.m. today in Christoval. The free concert is open to the public at the Mount Carmel Hermitage, 7637 Allen Lane. The hermitage property will be decorated with Christmas lights for the concert. Learn more about Howard College Howard College San Angelo will hold an Information Fair at 5 p.m. Monday in the Kevin J. Barry Conference Room at the West Texas Training Center, 3501 N. U.S. 67. The fair is open to anyone interested in learning more about Howard College and its Career Technical Education programs for Business Administration, Administrative Office Systems, Child & Family Development, Computer Information Technology, Criminal Justice and Drafting. Faculty advisers, financial aid advisers and registration advisers will be available to provide information and answer questions. For more information, call 325-481-8300 or visit howardcollege.edu. River Corridor group cancels meeting Due to a lack of cases or other items for consideration, the next regular River Corridor Commission meeting ? scheduled for 4 p.m. Dec. 27 at the McNease Convention Center, 500 Rio Concho Drive ? has been canceled. For more information, call Kari LeBoeuf at 325-657-4210 or email kari.leboeuf@sanangelotexas.us. SHARE Anita Berry By Monique Ching A Tom Green County grand jury indicted a mother and son in the July 28 shooting deaths of the mans estranged wife and her brother in Wall. Brian Jones Berry, 40, was indicted on a charge of capital murder of multiple persons and is being held in lieu of $1.5 million bail, according to online court records and an indictment filed Wednesday with the 119th District Court. Berrys mother, Anita Berry, 69, was indicted on charges of hindering apprehension or prosecution of a known felon and is being held in lieu of a $10,000 bail, according to an indictment filed with the 391st District Court on Sept. 4. Brian Berry, a San Angelo resident, was arrested late July 28 after an Amber Alert and first-degree murder warrant were issued by the Tom Green County Sheriffs Office. Berry is accused of shooting and killing Keri Berry, 36, and her brother, Brandon Block, 31, and wounding his sister-in-law, Susan Block, 26, at Keri Berrys house in Wall. Court records show Keri Berry had filed a petition for divorce in June. On the night of the shootings, according the Tom Green County Sheriffs Office, deputies were dispatched to the 7700 block of Farm-to-Market Road 1223 on a domestic disturbance call. The call was updated to a double homicide after officials ruled that Brandon Block and Keri Berry were dead. Susan Block was flown to Shannon Medical Center, where she was listed in critical condition. Shortly after the shootings, officials issued an Amber Alert to find the Berrys son and daughter, ages 7 and 9, whom Brian Berry took with him when he left the Wall residence. He was arrested that night in Andrews County and was arraigned the following day and transported to Tom Green County. Through further investigation, officials say they found that after the shootings Brian Berry met his mother, Anita Berry, at an Eldorado convenience store, where she bought him a cellphone charger. Surveillance footage from the store shows a Chevrolet Camaro and a Dodge pickup park at the gas pumps, according to the store manager. Children got out of the Camaro and walked to the pickup with a man. Texas Rangers also obtained information showing that Anita Berry withdrew $362 at 6:27 p.m. and $302 at 6:28 p.m., both on July 28 from the First National Bank of Sonora, according to search warrant documents. According to the indictment, Anita Berry is being charged with the intent to hinder the arrest, prosecution, conviction, or punishment ... provide or aid in providing Brian Jones Berry, with means of avoiding arrest ... by arranging to supply (him) with cash and a vehicle, and concealing the whereabouts or possible destination ... from law enforcement. Tom Green County Sheriff David Jones said Thursday that the children are with relatives. Susan Block was released from Shannon, but at her request details of her condition were not released. Officials from the Sheriffs Office executed a search warrant July 29 at an apartment that Berry had been leasing at Sedona Ranch, 2901 Sunset Drive. Items seized included a firearms magazine with live rounds, a night vision scope, a gun belt, hearing and eye protection and two rifles. Documents filed in April with the Northern District of Texas bankruptcy court indicate that Berry had a selection of firearms, including a 12-gauge shotgun, an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, a Taurus 1911 model .45-caliber handgun, a Mauser 8 mm pistol and a Remington 770 model .308-caliber hunting rifle among his possessions. Jones said a handgun was used to kill Keri Berry and Brandon Block. According to Tracy Ogle, open records officer with the Concho Valley Council of Governments, Berry graduated from the agencys 67th Law Enforcement Academy class in 2012. Berry attended Howard College, Ogle said, but was never hired by the council before or during the academy. Allison Palmer, 51st district attorney, will prosecute Brian Berrys and Anita Berrys cases. She declined to comment on the case. Jack Stoffregen, defense attorney for Brian Berry, and J.W. Johnson, defense attorney for Anita Berry, could not be reached by telephone Thursday. Hindering apprehension or prosecution of a known felon is a third-degree felony, punishable by two to 10 years imprisonment and fines up to $10,000. Capital murder is a capital felony, punishable by death or life imprisonment. Attempted murder is a second-degree felony, punishable by two to 20 years imprisonment and fines up to $10,000. Its now in the prosecutors hands, Jones said. Maybe the families can get some closure. SHARE When it comes to presidential primaries, raucous caucuses are nothing new in American politics. For decades, national primaries and caucuses have not simply been about the presidential nomination, but also about lesser political spoils, such as Cabinet posts or the vice presidency. This is why the presidential primary season can be so long and contentious multiple auditions for multiple roles are going on at the same time. The current crop of candidates would do well to learn from the story of Texas political legend and former presidential candidate John Nance "Cactus Jack" Garner, who sought the Democratic nomination for president in 1932 and 1940. As a new PBS documentary makes clear, Garner ended up shaping American politics in ways that still matter today. Elected to the Texas Legislature in 1898, Garner acquired the nickname "Cactus Jack" after unsuccessfully proposing the prickly pear as the state flower. Garner was elected to Congress in 1902 and rose quickly through the ranks, becoming the Democratic House whip in 1910. By 1930, he was a legislative veteran who knew every parliamentary and political trick in the book. As with more recent times, candidates in 1932 faced a panicked economic landscape and a cantankerous political climate. There were few primaries then, and the real nomination process took place at the party conventions. Garner's candidacy was backed by the Texas delegation and others who opposed the ascendancy of another political maverick, New York Gov. Franklin Roosevelt. Those supporters included California newspaper magnate William Randolph Hearst, who disliked Roosevelt's internationalism and saw Garner as a true man of the people. As the election season unfolded, Hearst lent the full weight of his media empire to Garner's candidacy. Like many would-be nominees today, Garner's candidacy had as much to do with jockeying for position as it did with being a serious run. It was meant to ensure that Texas, with its large block of votes, went to the convention with some leverage. However, Hearst's support led to Garner's surprise victory in the California primary, doubling the amount of delegates Garner took to the convention. He was now a serious contender. Aside from Hearst, Roosevelt was opposed by his former mentor and fellow Democrat Al Smith, who had lost the 1928 general election to Republican Herbert Hoover. With the Northeastern delegates split between Smith and Roosevelt, a nasty gridlock ensued at the convention. After three ballots, Roosevelt remained ahead of Smith, but his position looked vulnerable. Talk emerged that a compromise candidate, former Secretary of War Newton Baker, could swoop in and win the nomination. Meanwhile, Garner (running third) still held 90 delegates in his back pocket. The prospect of a Baker candidacy horrified Hearst as much as it did Roosevelt, though for different reasons. Hearst was now prepared to withdraw his support for Garner, and Roosevelt's backers were offering the vice presidency to anybody who would give them the votes. As it turned out, Roosevelt was about 90 votes short. On Hearst's and Garner's orders, California and Texas switched their allegiance to Roosevelt, who was duly nominated. Shortly after, Garner was nominated to be the vice president. Roosevelt went on to win a landslide victory, but he might not have done it without "Cactus Jack." The more conservative Garner shored up the South and West for Roosevelt, a perceived Northern liberal. Lyndon Johnson would do the same for John Kennedy 30 years later. As the current crop of presidential candidates cajole, charm and hustle for votes, they would do well to study Garner's timing and strategy in 1932. His ability to hold his nerve and stay in the race despite never actually being a front-runner left him and his backers well placed to act as kingmakers. Today's candidates should perhaps note the words of William McAdoo, a Garner ally and Hearst's hand-picked head of the California delegation, who spoke the following words at the convention: "We think that a contest too prolonged would bring schisms in the party which could not be cured before election." Don Carleton is the executive director of the Briscoe Center for American History at the University of Texas at Austin, which operates the Briscoe-Garner Museum in Uvalde. He is also the executive producer of "Cactus Jack: Lone Star on Capitol Hill," currently airing nationwide on PBS. City workers clear away debris from the remains of a tent city along Division Street Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, in San Francisco. Homeless people have until the end of Friday to vacate a rambling tent city along a busy San Francisco street declared a health hazard by city officials earlier this week. The mayor's office says about 40 tents remain, down from a high of 140 tents this winter. The tents have lined both sides of a street under a freeway overpass for months, drawing complaints from residents and businesses. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg) Eric Risberg/AP A man carries debris to a garbage truck after packing up his tent along Division Street Friday, Feb. 26, 2016, in San Francisco. Homeless people have until the end of Friday to vacate a rambling tent city along a busy San Francisco street declared a health hazard by city officials earlier this week. The mayor's office says about 40 tents remain, down from a high of 140 tents this winter. The tents have lined both sides of a street under a freeway overpass for months, drawing complaints from residents and businesses. (AP Photo/Eric Risberg) Eric Risberg/AP Officials in San Francisco last week sought to sweep out one of the city's more conspicuous tent cities, declaring the area a health hazard in need of a cleanup.Dozens of homeless people have been camped out on sidewalks beneath a freeway near downtown. The city's decision came after residents and business owners complained for weeks that the homeless encampment made them feel unsafe.The incident highlights the difficulties that city officials face when they try to keep people from sleeping in public spaces. Forcing homeless people to move along is a time-honored urban tactic, but advocates for the homeless -- and federal officials -- contend that it's a shortsighted policy.Criminalization of homelessness is essentially lazy policymaking, said Eric Tars, an attorney with the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty. Youre being confronted with constituents who are saying, We see homeless people on the street and they make us uncomfortable. What are you going to do about it?In San Francisco, health inspectors say the Division Street encampment is unsafe and unsanitary.People are living without access to running water, bathrooms, trash disposal or safe heating or cooking facilities, said the Department of Public Health in a written statement. "The encampments ... are unsanitary due to accumulation of garbage, human feces, hypodermic needles, urine odors and other unsanitary conditions."But Phillip Matier and Andrew Ross, columnists with the cite City Hall sources who concede that "having the health department take the lead on declaring Division Street uninhabitable was intended in part to deflect criticism that [Mayor Ed] Lees administration is criminalizing homelessness."The Lee administration recently opened a 100-bed shelter it hoped would attract some of the people living in the Division Street encampment. Since giving notice about the sweep, an outreach team has placed at least 27 adults in shelters, according to Rachael Kagan, a spokeswoman for the public health department. Shelters have space for more, she said.Even though the city gave people in the encampment three days to relocate, Public Works employees arrived early to clean the sidewalks. The Coalition on Homelessness, a San Francisco nonprofit, documented city workers throwing away a tent and a walker, despite a city policy to tag and store people's belongings. The Lawyers' Committee for Civil Rights of the San Francisco Bay Area condemned the sweep as illegal and suggested that the city compensate people for the destruction of their property. As of Sunday afternoon, police hadn't arrested the few dozen holdouts who remained in the area after the health department's Friday deadline.The clearing of homeless encampments is hardly unique to San Francisco. City officials from Baltimore to Honolulu have sought to remove clusters of tents and relocate the inhabitants to shelters, permanent housing or just somewhere else out of sight.Last summer, Baltimore Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake drew criticism from homeless advocates when the city cleared an encampment beneath an underpass. As in San Francisco, city officials said they were doing it out of concern for the well-being of the inhabitants.Part of what rankled advocates in Baltimore was the abrupt nature of the sweep. Usually the city gives advance notice so service providers can try to help the people being forced to move.But the bigger issue is providing permanent housing for those who feel shelters are less sanitary and safe than the streets, said Joe Surkiewicz, a spokesman for the Baltimore-based Homeless Persons Representation Project.Its very disingenuous for a city to say, Well, youve got to move to a shelter, because they wont, said Surkiewicz. The city is just moving people around.A mayoral advisory board actually sided with advocates and providers, recommending that Baltimore hold off on any more encampment razings until it could guarantee rental vouchers for the displaced people.Last year, Boise, Idaho, faced a legal challenge to its sleeping ordinance, which banned camping on streets, sidewalks, parks and public places. The plaintiffs in the case, people who are or were homeless, argued that enforcement of that ban was tantamount to criminalizing homelessness. A federal judge dismissed their suit, though, on the grounds that the homeless individuals lacked legal standing. By that time, the U.S. Justice Department had weighed in , calling anti-camping ordinances both unconstitutional and misguided public policy.Even when they survive legal scrutiny, clearance policies aren't going to be cost-effective.In Honolulu, for example, the city spends $15,000 a week to clear homeless encampments. Criminalization is the most expensive and least effective way of addressing these problems, said Tars of the National Law Center on Homelessness and Poverty.San Francisco, one of the most expensive cities in the country, is among more than a dozen large urban areas that have seen an uptick in homelessness since the Great Recession, according to data collected by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. San Franciscos homeless population grew 16 percent between 2009 and 2015, while homelessness steadily declined nationwide over that same period.The problem appears to be most acute in a few cities with hot real estate markets and a shortage of affordable housing. Last fall, mayors in Portland, Seattle and Los Angeles said homelessness had reached a crisis point and asked for state and federal assistance in tackling the issue.Tars said there are ways for cities to clear encampments without raising the hackles of homeless advocates and civil liberties groups. He pointed to a bill now being considered in Indianapolis, which lays out a process for removing tent cities that takes into account the needs of homeless individuals. The city would have to give advance notice of a clearing, provide people with a temporary place to store their belongings during the move and connect them with nonprofits to help find housing and other support services.While some local governments still resort to sweeps, federal officials are pressuring them to find other ways of dealing with homeless encampments. The U.S. Interagency Council on Homelessness published guidance papers last year that called forced dispersal of encampments not an appropriate solution.In December, the Office of Community Oriented Policing Services criticized the use of officers in forcibly removing the homeless from public areas.Arresting people for performing basic life-sustaining activities like sleeping in public, the newsletter said, takes law enforcement professionals away from what they are trained to do: fight crime.Perhaps the most concrete step taken so far by federal officials is a new question inserted last year in applications for a $2 billion grant program from the Department of Housing and Urban Development. Local governments now get higher scores if they demonstrate ways they are preventing the criminalization of homelessness. Question on data Statewide issue Poverty in Wisconsin hit its highest level in 30 years during the five-year period ending in 2014, even as the nation's economy was recovering from the Great Recession, according to a trend analysis of U.S. census data just released by University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers.The number of Wisconsin residents living in poverty averaged 13% across that post-recession time frame -- the highest since 1984, according to the analysis by UW-Madison's Applied Population Laboratory. In 1984, the poverty rate peaked at 15.5% as the nation was recovering from a double-dip recession.The UW-Madison analysis dovetails with an unrelated study that identified pockets of the country faring worse as the economic recovery gains some traction, released Thursday by a national nonprofit research group in Washington, D.C.That study, by the Economic Innovation Group, found the gap between the richest and poorest American communities widening, and ranked Milwaukee the seventh most distressed city in America, with 52% of the population considered economically distressed.Poverty increased more dramatically across Wisconsin than in many other states, though 46 of the 50 states saw a significant increase in total population living in poverty between the five-year periods ending in 2009 and 2014, according to the UW-Madison analysis.A five-year rolling average is considered more reliable and precise data than a year-to-year comparison. Five-year estimates also are the only census data available at the county and neighborhood level; one-year estimates are available for the state as a whole and the city of Milwaukee.Using the five-year measure, poverty went up in both urban and rural parts of Wisconsin. It went up at every level of educational achievement, and across the employment spectrum.Perhaps most significant, the poverty gap between blacks and whites grew here as the average gap was flat across the nation. The state's child poverty rate also went up significantly, fueling concerns about the future for many of the state's youngest residents."There is some good evidence that living in poverty and experiencing issues like food and housing insecurity can cause changes in the brain that can lead to behavioral issues and low performance in school, as well as chronic disease later in life," said Malia Jones, an assistant scientist and social epidemiologist at UW-Madison's Applied Population Laboratory.It's no coincidence that two-thirds of students who cannot read above a fourth-grade level end up either in prison or on welfare, several literacy studies have shown.A UW-Milwaukee associate professor of economics contacted by the Journal Sentinel questioned the accuracy of the analysis because he believes the 2014 poverty rate Jones used was incorrect, and skewed the results higher.Jones used a 2014 poverty rate of 13.3% from the U.S. Census Bureau's American Community Survey, which provides detailed information about the population and workforce. Scott Adams, the economics professor and chair of UWM's economics department, pointed to a 2014 poverty rate of 10.9% from the Current Population Survey, considered a primary source for labor statistics.Jones said she chose the American Community Survey because it's a larger sampling.The years leading up to a recession and recession recovery naturally would look different, said Adams, who served as a senior economist for labor, welfare and education on the president's Council of Economic Advisers at the end of George W. Bush's presidency and the start of Barack Obama's first term.He argued that poverty after the early 1980s recession was much worse than poverty after the most recent recession.Jones said poverty is rising now because those at the bottom of the economic totem pole aren't benefiting from economic improvement. "Inequality is certainly worse now than in 1984," she said.The growing poverty gap between blacks and whites in Wisconsin also caught Adams' eye."What it reflects is the black population in Wisconsin was left completely out of the recovery," he said.The racial poverty gap, coupled with Milwaukee's high ranking among the most distressed American cities, "signals we have tremendous concerns," Adams said."Poverty's not a Milwaukee issue; it's a Wisconsin issue," said Charles McLimans, president and CEO of Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin, which works with a network of pantries, soup kitchens, meal programs and homeless shelters to distribute food in 36 counties in eastern Wisconsin."Because Milwaukee is such a segregated city and problems are concentrated in southeastern Wisconsin, people outside (the area) don't see and fully understand the issue," McLimans said. "This certainly helps to shine a light on it."The Applied Population Laboratory analysis found:-- Poverty went up significantly in 31 of 72 Wisconsin counties, including 11 of the 15 most populous counties, during the most recent five-year span. Estimates show about 738,000 Wisconsin residents were living in poverty during the 2010-'14 period, compared to 605,000 in the 2005-'09 time frame.-- Nearly one in five Wisconsin children was living in poverty during the 2010-'14 time frame -- 239,000 children in all, or 18.5% of all children. That's up dramatically from 14.6% in 2005-'09, and represents another 50,000 children.Only 10 states had faster rates of increase in child poverty than Wisconsin.-- Twenty-five of Wisconsin's 72 counties had a significant increase in child poverty. No county had a significant decrease. The highest childhood poverty county remains Menominee, which went up from 35.1% to 44.8% of residents under age 18 living in poverty.Milwaukee County, the state's largest urban center, went from 26.4% to 33% child poverty and is now tied for second highest with Sawyer County in northern Wisconsin, where Hayward is located.Other Wisconsin counties with child poverty rates above the national average (21.9%) for 2010-'14 included: Kenosha, Rock, Vilas, Forest, Adams, Clark, Vernon, Monroe, Burnett, Ashland, Rusk and Jackson.-- Racial disparities in poverty are bigger here than in the U.S. as a whole, and are growing faster. The poverty gap between African-Americans and whites grew 4 percentage points in Wisconsin, while the national average did not grow, Jones said.Wisconsin's poverty rate was 39% for blacks and 28% for Latinos, compared with 11% for whites -- significantly wider gaps than in the rest of the country. Nationally, the analysis reported the gap between blacks and whites was 16 percentage points, and for Latinos and whites, 13 percentage points.-- Significant changes in poverty occurred among adults at every level of educational achievement in Wisconsin.For those with less than a high school education, poverty rose from 20.5% to 24.5%. The impact was mitigated by a decrease in total population with low educational attainment, which dropped from 380,000 to 337,000.For those with a high school education, poverty rose from 8.9% to 11%. It increased from 6.6% to 8.9% among those with some college. Poverty also touched those with bachelor's degrees or more, rising from 3% in 2005-'09 to 3.6% in 2010-'14.-- Poverty cut across various levels of employment in Wisconsin.Among the unemployed, poverty increased from 27% to 31.6%. The number of unemployed adults grew by about 35,000 people between the five-year periods ending in 2009 and 2014.Increases were also seen among the working poor. Among employed adults, poverty rose from 6% to 7%. It increased among those employed full-time from 2% to 2.4%.UW-Madison's Applied Population Lab is housed in the Department of Community and Environmental Sociology in the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences.UW-Madison's Institute for Research on Poverty each year produces a single-year census data comparison called the Wisconsin Poverty Report. That report is due later this spring. The legislative battle over Birmingham's minimum wage ended Thursday.The Alabama Senate gave final approval to a bill to block the Magic City from setting a $10.10 an hour wage floor, capping two weeks of intense debate over wages in Alabama and the proper relationship of state and local government.Gov. Robert Bentley signed the bill Thursday afternoon, less than an hour after the final vote. ABC 33/40 in Birmingham reported that the city's legal department said the vote "voided" Birmingham's ordinance. In a statement, Birmingham City Council president Johnathan Austin said "the fight has just begun.""The very people who have refused to expand Medicaid in the state to help the most vulnerable amongst us receive critical medical care, are once again keeping their boots on the necks of people in desperate need of financial relief," the statement said. "People can not pull themselves up by the bootstraps if they can't afford to buy boots."The Senate approved the measure by a 23-11 vote, mainly on party lines. Eight Democrats voted against the measure, as did Republican Sens. Paul Bussman of Cullman and Bill Holtzclaw of Madison. Independent Harri Anne Smith of Slocomb also voted against the measure.Nearly every remaining Republican in the chamber voted for the measure. Sen. Tom Whatley, R-Auburn, was listed as not voting.In the Montgomery delegation, Senate Minority Leader Quinton Ross, D-Montgomery, voted against the bill and Sen. Dick Brewbaker, R-Montgomery voted for it.The legislation prevents cities and municipalities from setting their own minimum wages, and also imposes limits on the wages and benefits they can negotiate with employers looking to locate in their areas.Democrats sharply criticized the legislation as interference in city affairs and an attempt to end discussion about proper compensation in Alabama."(Republicans) pick and choose," Ross said. "You don't want banks regulated. Big business doesn't want to be regulated, but you want to regulate the discussion of a fair, workable wage."Republican supporters, in turn, said they wanted to prevent costs from rising on businesses, which they said could lead to job losses.Sen. Jabo Waggoner, R-Vestavia Hills, who carried the bill in the Senate, said the wage could lead to "worrisome job trends" in Birmingham."What a hodgepodge we would have in this state if Birmingham passed a minimum wage and Montgomery passed one," he said.Sen. Bill Hightower, R-Mobile, said that a higher minimum would pull older workers into the market."What happens when we raise minimum wage is we crowd people out of the job market," he said.Birmingham and the Alabama Legislature tried to match each other stride-for-stride after the city voted last August to establish its own minimum wage, to be phased in over two years. Rep. David Faulkner, R-Mountain Brook, first filed the bill in last September's special session, but it failed to advance to a vote.The Birmingham City Council began moving to speed up implementation of the minimum wage earlier this month when it appeared Faulkner would bring his legislation back. After the Alabama House approved Faulkner's measure last week, the City Council voted to implement the measure. The ordinance was scheduled to go into effect Sunday.City council members argue the minimum wage is a way to improve quality of life. Birmingham senators echoed that."We're talking about the bare survival of people," said Sen. Rodger Smitherman, D-Birmingham. "And we're talking about a Legislature . . . that says we don't care about y'all."Coleman-Madison said the working poor needed to keep up with rising costs of living."It even costs more to die," she said. "Everything has gone up. Yet we don't feel the working poor deserve a break."Brewbaker said he was concerned about the bill generally, but that Birmingham's efforts to implement it in a single step made it worse."Montgomery would probably follow suit," he said. "I think it would have a negative effect on business and employment."Updated: An earlier version of this story, reflecting the vote record, said Sen. Linda Coleman-Madison, D-Birmingham, was listed as not voting. Coleman-Madison said her no vote was not heard in the initial tally. The vote record and the story have been updated. this year in Maines troubled political system. Shortly after convening in January, the Democratic-controlled state House held a vote on the impeachment of Republican Gov. Paul LePage, with some Democrats accusing him of consistently abusing his powers and disregarding the will of the legislature. That move went nowhere, but the debate surrounding impeachment was enough to convince LePage it wasnt worth his time to climb the single set of stairs up to the House chamber to deliver his State of the State address. They dont like me, the governor said. It was true, and the feeling was mutual. Socialist legislators, LePage complained, wasted more than six months of the taxpayers time and money on a political witch hunt.An impeachment effort that was bound to lose and a governor refusing to give a speech may seem like symbolic sideshows, but they demonstrated pretty clearly that relations between LePage and the legislature arent improving. They could hardly be much worse. Last year, LePage decided toward the end of the session to veto every single bill the legislature sent him. He was angry that lawmakers wouldnt put before voters his proposal to eliminate the state income tax. In the end, the governor vetoed a total of nearly 170 bills. He would have vetoed dozens more, but the state Supreme Judicial Court ruled that he missed the deadline for rejecting 65 others.The legislature was able to override about 70 percent of LePages vetoes, casting votes that at least made it possible for the state to have a budget for the current year. Power in the legislature itself is divided between a Democratic House and a Republican Senate, but by refusing to sign anything, LePage temporarily unified the two parties.Divided government is always challenging, but what is happening in Maine right now goes far beyond any conventional notion of divided government or partisan competition. It is an exercise in extreme political hostility, in which even the most routine give-and-take between the executive and the legislative branches has disappeared. Faced with an obstinate chief executive, legislators are essentially trying to run the state on their own. The only positive by-product of this has been a tenuous coalition of Democratic and Republican legislators willing to work together to prevent the situation from deteriorating even further. In terms of creating law, weve done that in the absence of a governor, says Mark Eves, the Democratic speaker of the House. Its too bad, but it doesnt stop us from working together.It didnt help matters last year when LePage blackballed Eves for a job, threatening to cut off funding for a charter school that wanted to hire the speaker. The atmosphere of mutual distrust has carried over into this year. The governor has signed some bills, but legislators are proceeding with the expectation that he might decide to block any bill for any reason. Therefore, nothing much is going to move unless it commands overwhelming veto-proof support from both parties in both chambers. Everybody recognizes that youd better have bipartisan support from the beginning and throughout if youre going to be successful, Eves says, because youll have to overcome the governors veto.Thats already happened in some cases. Legislators gave unanimous approval to a conservation bond package LePage had fought, as well as a bill that addresses the states drug addiction crisis. The latter package won unanimous approval from both the House and Senate, and LePage signed it. Despite all the conflict, some work does get done. A few bills are being entered into law.With the entire legislature up for election this year, Republican lawmakers now face a stark choice. Their normal inclination would be to side with the governor of their own party. LePage is seeking to promote that line of thinking by taking his case directly to the people, holding town hall meetings on a nearly weekly basis and working hard to recruit candidates he considers supportive -- even if that means finding challengers to run against incumbent Republicans. The more the governor is able to talk about his priorities and articulate them to the people of Maine, the more the legislature is willing to listen, says Adrienne Bennett, LePages press secretary.But some Republicans -- knowing that LePage was elected twice with less than a majority vote and that he remains a controversial figure because of his unwillingness to make deals and his tendency to make offensive statements -- are deciding they dont want to run as LePage Republicans. Everyone, including Republicans, are individually sizing up what kind of impact this governor will have on their individual races, says GOP state Sen. Roger Katz, and how closely they do or dont want to be aligned with him as a result. Thats 186 different calculations going on.As legislators and the governor look ahead to the election, no one is happy about the present situation. LePage has been hemmed in. His own wish list, most notably stricter rules for social welfare programs and abolition of the income tax, has little chance of getting a serious hearing. The five years of his administration have been a series of missed opportunities, says Katz. The Republican senator has sometimes crossed swords with LePage, but describes the governors failure to push his priorities more deftly as a tragedy. We could have moved his agenda forward in a much more robust way if there had been more civility and more give and take between his office and the legislature, Katz says.Its not as though the governor has completely dealt himself out of the process. When it comes to running the executive branch, LePage has exercised tight control, not allowing his agency heads to veer off the course he sets. He does his best to prevent them even from testifying before the legislature, except in carefully controlled circumstances. In an extreme instance last month, LePage announced he would take on the duties of education commissioner himself, since it looked like Senate Democrats were gong to torpedo his pick. Legislators say that they have been given a serious lesson in what separation of powers really means, since its impossible for them to craft laws in a way that anticipates every administrative roadblock the governor might put up. When he decides he doesnt like something, he can use a lot of obstacles, says former GOP state Sen. David Trahan.And while anti-LePage legislators have demonstrated that legislative vetoes can be overridden, they havent been able to do it every time. As a result, strategic thinking about legislation in Maine looks a lot different than it does in other states. Only issues of primary importance are likely to be addressed. Smaller matters lack an engaged constituency and the momentum necessary to get things through the states unique intragovernmental maze.Even major issues that everyone agrees must be addressed, such as the states heroin epidemic, dont call out as much legislative firepower or brainpower as they would normally demand. With supermajority support serving as the minimum needed to bring legislation forward, bills simply cant be as complicated or comprehensive as sponsors might otherwise want. Legislators and lobbyists alike are left seeking the lowest common denominator. Anything that is deemed too ambitious doesnt go anywhere. Its hard to do anything innovative, says Beth Ahearn, political director for the Maine Conservation Fund, when the governor is going to veto and overrides are hard.the LePage years in a defensive crouch, but in one area they have been able to seize the initiative. In both 2010 and 2012, Maine voters overwhelmingly approved millions of dollars in conservation bonds for a program called Land for Maines Future. Despite this show of public support, LePage refused to issue the bonds, blocking the funds unless he could get his way on other matters, such as payment of hospital debt and timber harvesting on public lands to pay for low-income heating assistance.Last year, legislators decided to order the governor to issue the bonds. They had no trouble winning big majorities in favor of the idea. But under intense pressure from the governors office, a half-dozen Republicans flipped their votes, sustaining LePages veto.Heading into this years session, advocates for the land program used every trick in the lobbyists handbook to gain support. Environmentalists and hunters built up a coalition of conservative and liberal lawmakers willing to press for the conservation bonds within each caucus. They commissioned a poll showing that 74 percent of Maine residents support the conservation program. Legislators who had switched their votes received pressure from their home districts. They were pounded on, publicly and privately, says Ahearn. They went to the governor and said, Youre killing us on this issue.When it came time for a vote this January, House Democrats left their GOP colleagues no choice -- agree to fund the popular program for five years, or dont fund it at all. They refused to allow a vote on LePages proposal to issue bonds for only six months. Ken Fredette, the Republican leader, was visibly torn as he explained his decision to support the Democratic measure on the House floor. That was not a coincidence that he felt he was in a box, says Trahan, now the executive director of the Sportsmans Alliance of Maine. We put him in a box.It was a successful strategy for bypassing an implacable governor. But the sequence of events also showed how difficult it is to pull that kind of thing off. Not every bill can boast of support that is both intense and widespread. Consider the drug epidemic. Maine has seen spiking numbers of people addicted to opioids. Last year produced a record number of overdose deaths.LePage has been hammering away at this issue for years. He was addressing the topic at a town hall in Bridgton on Jan. 6 when he made his most recent set of widely condemned remarks, saying that traffickers by the name D-Money, Smoothie, Shifty come to Maine from Connecticut and New York to sell heroin and incidentally, half the time they impregnate a young, white girl before they leave. Strikingly, local reporters, inured to the tone of LePages rhetoric, failed at first to highlight the remark. But amidst the subsequent national media uproar, LePage apologized to Maine women.Several politicians said that LePage had unnecessarily diverted attention from a serious issue, but the real holdup when it comes to passing drug legislation in Maine is a philosophical difference of opinion. LePage wants to see stepped up enforcement, with more agents hired at the Maine Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA). He also commented recently that the state ought to bring the guillotine back for executing drug traffickers.Maine Democrats believe the situation must also be addressed on the demand side, through expanded and improved treatment and recovery programs. LePage has not accepted this. Last summer, he refused to apply for federal grants that could have provided $3 million for drug treatment in Maine. The day before his Bridgton appearance, the governor complained in a radio address that a legislative proposal included money and special favors for their friends. The bill sends money for drug treatment to hand-picked organizations whose programs have been ineffective.While Democrats favor stepped-up treatment, they certainly arent against enforcement (even if they dont like guillotines). Its not hard to see where a compromise could be reached -- more money for enforcement, more money for carefully screened treatment programs. But thats not the way things are done in Maine these days.Instead, legislators quickly moved a drug treatment package in January that its own sponsors described as inadequate, a down payment at best. The package calls for hiring 10 more DEA agents, with $2.5 million more for treatment. The package as a whole provides only a little more money than LePage turned down last year from the feds. Perhaps because it was so modest, it had no trouble sailing through both chambers with unanimous support. Other bills have been inching their way through the legislative pipeline, but despite recognition on all sides that drug addiction is an issue that deserves a stronger response, agreement has been elusive. The process has been more unpredictable and fluid than ever, says Jim Cohen, a former Portland mayor who represents methadone clinics, among other clients. Thats not to say that every bill will be vetoed, but the safest way to go is to obtain a two-thirds majority of both houses.its often said, leaves everyone a little dissatisfied. But Maines current political system doesnt allow for typical compromise, with both sides giving a little and working their way through a messy process. Instead, this is the new legislative strategy in Maine: Dont ask for much, and you may get it. From the advocacy point of view, people are not putting forward bills that are too ambitious, says Glen Brand, state director of the Sierra Club.Legislators and LePage can agree on this much: They arent satisfied with the present arrangement. Toward that end, both sides are hoping that this falls elections will reshuffle the deck, giving one or the other the chance to claim a mandate from voters.But it may not be that simple. Partisan control of both chambers has flipped repeatedly in recent cycles. Heading into the election, the margins are tight in both chambers. Higher turnout in a presidential year should favor Democrats. Maine hasnt supported a Republican presidential candidate since 1988.On the other hand, Democrats will have to defend a lot more open seats than the GOP -- including some in districts that have supported LePage. On balance, the governor is inspiring a lot of Republicans to run for office, says Rick Bennett, the state GOP chair. A lot of the 43 freshman Republicans in the Maine House ran for office because they want to support his reform agenda.For all theyve been able to cooperate on with Republicans in the legislature thus far, Democrats know that losing majority control of the House would be disastrous for their priorities. For his part, LePage wants the election to serve as a referendum. The governor believes hes doing the will of the people -- hes fond of pointing out that, even without a majority, he received more raw votes in 2014 than any gubernatorial candidate in Maine history. He believes that if he maintains his unyielding stance, voters will reward him with a friendlier legislature for the 2017 session.In the meantime, the legislature will continue to debate and vote, passing modest bills, but only where there is overwhelming consensus. Many frustrated advocates who would like to push more ambitious policies are taking their arguments straight to the ballot, with a broad range of measures already filed for votes this November. Convincing voters of the merits of their cause may be easier work than getting the legislature and the governor to cooperate on anything. More people face traffic tickets than criminal charges, but until now, only the latter could be looked up online here.Next week, however, a new website will be opened that will allow ticket holders to search for their records in more than 30 area municipal courts -- a number that is expected to double as the website, municourt.net, becomes more established.The site will show case information, including upcoming hearing dates, money owed and any warrants on tickets.Aside from the convenience of being able to access case information without going to court, it's a huge leap toward transparency for a municipal court system that has for decades operated in secret.It's the result of a Post-Dispatch investigation and records push.The newspaper, in reporting on a variety of abuses and favor trading, found that it was nearly impossible to get timely access to records in many of St. Louis County's 80 municipal courts. Sometimes, even viewing a single court file involved days of wrangling and public records requests, and there was no way to track when tickets were dismissed.The newspaper asked the state judicial records committee to intervene, and the result was a sweeping order that tasked the courts with making cases from the last five years available to the public in an easily accessible index. Court operating rules already required such a database, but very few municipal courts here had them."The records committee's order, it was pretty strong," said Timothy Engelmeyer, who holds several municipal court positions, including as judge in Creve Coeur, where officials demonstrated the new website to a reporter on Thursday."A lot of the changes you are seeing can be traced back to what the records committee said, which was that we needed to do this immediately."The new public access portal, set to begin March 3, will be available to any of the 64 municipal courts that contract with the Regional Justice Information Service (REJIS) for their internal computer/case management system.REJIS is a quasi-public entity that handles information technology for police departments as well as courts.One service it already offers, for example, is mobile ticketing. Officers can write citations electronically in the field, and that case information is sent automatically to the court. Now, the basics of the ticket will also appear on the new website within an hour of being authorized by the court.The online case record would be updated any time the court takes action on the ticket. The initial rollout will cover only active cases, or tickets that have been paid or disposed of within the last year. Older tickets will be added later.The services are being offered as part of the courts' current contracts with REJIS, so there is no additional cost to the public.REJIS is also exploring ways it can develop the website further to offer other features, such as the ability to pay tickets straight from the site.For now, the website will be similar to Case.net, which is where the public can access case information for the state courts. The office of state courts administrator runs that site, and although a number of municipal courts statewide also use that service, only six of them are in St. Louis County.In the push for municipal court reform, St. Louis County has received the most criticism.One issue that has come to light is the sheer number of outstanding warrants on tickets. Some people didn't even know that they had several outstanding warrants across different jurisdictions, or that their license had been suspended for failing to show up to court. They'd learn of it when they were stopped for a new ticket, arrested and brought to court.Engelmeyer said this website would go a long way toward solving those types of problems."If you're trying to get legal, what an easy way to do it," he said. "This will give people the opportunity to just get on there, see what they've got, and work toward getting their license back."David Pudlowski, director of client services for REJIS, said it felt appropriate for his organization to be involved in this effort. REJIS was founded in 1974 under a cooperative agreement between St. Louis and St. Louis County."We were born because it's so fragmented in the area and the powers that be said, 'It would be great to have some regional (source) of data,'" he said. "The court administrators I have talked to are nothing but excited because of the value this will provide to the public." Does tech equal Democrats? (TNS) -- Austin venture capitalist Jimmy Treybig and tech CEO John Price both describe themselves as political independents.This presidential election cycle, Treybig wrote a $2,700 check to Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clintons campaign, while Price gave $100 to Republican contender Ted Cruz.Both say their contributions had nothing to do with party affiliations. Rather, they say, they put their money behind the candidate they think will best support tech companies and job creation.Whether theyre a Democrat or Republican, that doesnt matter to me, said Treybig, who built Tandem Computers in Silicon Valley and has been a venture investor in Austin for nearly two decades. I support the person who I think cares about people and cares about jobs.This years election cycle has divided voters nationwide, and Central Texas high-tech community is no exception. In Austin, unlike Silicon Valley, tech executives are generally known for avoiding political affiliations. Many prefer to describe themselves as fiscally conservative and socially liberal rather than aligning with a particular party.Still, an American-Statesman analysis of donation data in the 2016 election cycle showed that among Austin tech workers, there are clear favorites. Clinton raised $83,814 in direct donations more than any other presidential candidate. While Clintons popularity in the Austin tech industry mirrors donation patterns for the city at large, where she has raised $816,905 so far, Republican candidates are making inroads in an industry traditionally perceived as closely aligned with Democrats.Cruz raised $46,612 from Austin tech workers, the most of any Republican candidate. In total, Cruz raised nearly $800,000 from Austin-area residents. And former Republican candidate Rand Paul, known for his libertarian leanings, did especially well in Austins tech community, raising $14,123, the second-most donations of any Republican candidate so far. Donors who contribute directly to a candidate face limits of $2,700 per person.This data is based on Federal Election Commission reports filed through Feb. 10 from Austin-area donors who contributed to individual presidential campaign accounts in the 2016 election cycle. But it could be incomplete candidates are supposed to seek the names of employers, but there is no requirement that donors divulge their employment. It doesnt include data on donations to political action committees or super PACs.The longtime perception is that tech industries back Democratic candidates, with most of the anecdotal evidence stemming from Silicon Valley. For instance, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt campaigned for President Barack Obama in 2008. Yahoo CEO Marissa Mayer is also a regular donor to Democratic candidates, and Facebook Chief Operating Officer Sheryl Sandberg has hosted Democratic fundraisers. recent Bloomberg analysis of donations from Silicon Valley tech firms seemed to back this up: Democrats raised $3.82 million versus $2.28 million for Republicans. In Austin, Democrats also have the fundraising edge among tech workers, raising $124,508 versus Republicans $86,883.The perception that tech companies and those who work in the tech industry tend to lean Democratic is justified, said Melinda Jackson, an associate professor of political science at San Jose State University. That can partly be explained by demographics. Technology workers skew younger and tend to reside in liberal cities such as San Francisco and Austin, Jackson said.Some tech firms or CEOs lean more Republican than others. The Bloomberg story found that employees at companies such as Intel Corp., Yahoo and Oracle Corp. donated more to Republican candidates and to the Republican party. Larry Ellison, executive chairman and chief technology officer of Oracle Corp., has given $3 million to groups that support conservative candidates, according to data from the Center for Responsive Politics.Democrats did better among workers at Google, Facebook and Apple Inc., Bloomberg reported. An analysis by the Center for Responsive Politics shows that donors in the electronics manufacturing and equipment sector who contributed to a presidential candidate did give about $500,000 more to Democrats.The biggest donors within the tech industry mostly reside in Silicon Valley, with the only Austinite making Forbes list of The Most Generous Tech Titans in Politics being Michael Dell , based on donations in the 2016 election cycle.But candidates have had success raising money from lower-level tech workers in Austin. Clinton attracted dollars from a wide swath of tech workers, from small Internet startups to Dell Inc. She received more donations from Dells Austin-based workforce than any other presidential candidate.Still, Democrat Bernie Sanders is winning the microcontribution war, securing the greatest number of individual contributions of any presidential candidate: 404. But his average contribution was only $89. His total haul of $35,894 from the tech industry put him in third place.For Republican tech donors, Cruz was the obvious choice. Political experts say thats not surprising given Cruzs popularity in Texas generally. In Silicon Valley, according to the Bloomberg article, Republicans were donating more to candidates Jeb Bush and Marco Rubio.It doesnt totally surprise me that in place like Texas you have a fair amount of support for Ted Cruz, Jackson said. His campaign has been praised for its digital efforts, with a popular app that encourages supporters to volunteer or donate by awarding points Libertarian connectionRand Paul wasnt exactly a fundraising powerhouse in Austin. According to data analyzed by the American-Statesman, he raised $106,909 in the city at large, placing him fifth in total donations to Republican presidential candidates. But within the tech industry he was the second-most popular Republican to donate to.Pauls strong showing highlights a link between tech workers and libertarians, a political philosophy that emphasizes limited government. (Though Paul ran as a Republican, he is known for hewing closer to the Libertarian Party.)Many libertarians say there is an inherent connection between people who work in tech jobs and a resistance to government regulation or interference. Pat Dixon, an engineering consultant who was chair of the Libertarian Party of Texas for 10 years, said in the tech industry people are accustomed to doing things quickly, getting businesses off the ground quickly. Dixon said. If you have a computer you can make a product and get it out there. It is very low regulatory burden typically.Tech workers appreciate the simplicity of logic behind libertarianism, said Robert Rock Howard, a former chairman of the Travis County Libertarian Party. But he also noted that of all the people who endorse the libertarian philosophy, tech workers probably have the most money. Therefore they are one of the more consistent sources of funding for the party at all levels, Howard said.The Paul campaign sought to harness this support. The campaign had a lot of friends in the Austin tech community, said 27-year-old Vincent Harris, the Austin-based chief digital strategist for the Paul campaign, who is known as a bit of a digital prodigy, with Politico Magazine publishing a lengthy feature story on him last summer . The Paul campaign set up its digital operations inside local tech incubator Capital Factory.Harris said Paul fundraised in Austin and San Francisco several times last year, and that reaching out to the tech community was a deliberate strategy. The tech community is one that Republicans dont traditionally reach out to, Harris said. I think they are scared of them. He recalled a time when he spoke at a conference of Texas Republicans, and someone asked him a question about why he used Google in campaigning. They said, Arent they in bed with Democrats? Harris said. That kind of mindset is what our base a lot of times still believes Oh my gosh, everyone is so liberal.Price, who is CEO of Austin software-maker Vast, said he isnt interested in political labels. He just wants to support the candidate with the best plan for tackling issues that matter to him.I care about tech startups and small business, because I believe small businesses are the growth engine for our economy, he said. To say youre a Republican or Democrat right now, its meaningless. Im looking for who will reduce regulation to stimulate the economy and increase small business growth.Price said he was drawn to Cruz by his digital marketing campaign, which he described as delving deep into business policy. Thats what got me. I was like, If those are the issues youre going to drive forward on, I will support you. The sun may set at night for the rest of the country, but in Nevada it can continue to shine until the morning through light bulbs.The Crescent Dunes project , which delivered its first electrical generation test at the end of 2015, will begin ramping up until it reaches its full generational capacity of 110 megawatts sometime this year, according to a press release from the plants constructor SolarReserve. According to the company, Crescent Dunes is the first power plant in the world with fully integrated storage capacity.And the power wont be stored in a battery not exactly. Instead, SolarReserve has built a proprietary storage system that uses concentrated solar power to heat molten salt. It can then pull power from the salt to provide power for 24 hours a day.The storage capacity strikes at the heart of an important piece of the puzzle the country is facing when it comes to building a power system that generates electricity from clean, renewable sources instead of on-demand fossil fuels pulled from the ground: intermittency. Most renewable resources are only available at certain times the wind doesnt blow constantly, the sun disappears at night and hydroelectric dams have trouble generating power during droughts. So more and more, renewable energy advocates and government institutions have been calling for energy companies to buy and build storage capacity to allow those resources to power the grid more consistently and reduce the demand on fossil fuel-burning plants.Crescent Dunes 110 megawatts of storage is a big number in that growing arena. For context: Californias largest investor-owned utility, Pacific Gas & Electric, issued a request for offers in 2014 to buy 74 megawatts of storage capacity in order to meet targets set by the Legislature and public utilities commission.SolarReserve says at its peak the plant can provide enough electricity to power 75,000 homes a little more than 7 percent of the states households by the U.S. Census Bureaus count.NV Energy, a Berkshire Hathaway subsidiary that provides power to all corners of the state, has signed on to a 25-year agreement to purchase all of Crescent Dunes generation. Funding for the plants construction relied on private investment from ACS Cobra, as well as a loan guarantee from the U.S. Department of Energy on $737 million in debt. Sen. Harry Reid commended the collaboration on the project in a statement.Nevada will benefit for decades as engineers and experts from around the world come to Tonopah to see what is possible when the public and private sectors come together to build the next generation of clean energy technology, Reid said in the SolarReserve press release. Realizing Nevadas clean energy future can only be guaranteed by a continued commitment to innovation and collaboration between all levels of government and the private sector. (TNS) -- Ohio State University has decided that the idea of leasing the right to operate the university's energy systems has enough merit to go forward with seeking bids.Top university officials, in an email earlier this week, said they'll start defining the details of a possible "comprehensive energy management plan" and, within a few months, issue a formal request for proposals. A website dedicated to the exploration of the idea says that a winning proposal isn't likely to be chosen and presented to the Board of Trustees before fall.University leaders tout it as a way to secure a large up-front payment that could support university programs, while improving the university's energy efficiency, by requiring any potential partner to invest in better and greener technology. It's a similar model to the one the university used to privatize parking operations in 2012.But critics, principally Ohio State's chapter of United Students Against Sweatshops and members of Communications Workers of America Local 4501, charge that such an arrangement would cost campus utility workers their jobs and could undermine the university's commitment to sustainable energy.The idea of outsourcing the university's energy management first was aired a year ago, when officials put out a request for qualifications, to determine whether companies would be interested in a partnership. Forty-four companies or teams responded. Forty of those were deemed qualified and, in October, they were asked to provide more information on how they might do the job.Ten teams responded by December, each pledging that it could meet the university's goal of reducing energy use by 25 percent within 10 years."We understand that some important questions have yet to be answered," the officials said in the campus email. "The next step is to fully define the details of how a partnership might work."The student group, which in January interrupted OSU President Michael V. Drake's annual address to the University Senate with a protest, urged followers on social media Monday to call Drake's office, offering a suggested script. On Tuesday, the group sent a letter to Drake expressing disappointment in the decision to move forward with planning."We see a constant cycle of government defunding of public assets and universities, and then inviting in private corporations to solve the problem," the letter said. "Instead of seeking profit-driven solutions, we urge you to seek more public funding to solve our energy crisis. We can make the difference in-house without jeopardizing people's livelihoods and families." Why the Delay? Reassuring CIOs As elections draw closer and the candidates lay out in increasing detail their visions for the country, we've seen plans arise for economic reform and health-care changes. But no candidate has spoken out about structural reform how to make the government operate more efficiently. The easiest way to do that? By taking advantage of the same technologies that have transformed almost every other modern industry.The need to deliver better services at a lower cost is driving every level of government to look for new, more collaborative ways of working. While this need is not new, the tools available to government organizations are. Initiatives to drive greater collaboration internally between teams and agencies, as well as externally with partners, suppliers and the public are today being met with a mix of cloud computing, social tools, mobile devices and collaborative work platforms.While these tools have presented government organizations an opportunity, they also have brought challenges. Most notably, the ability to leverage cloud technologies for collaborative work management in a way that strikes a balance between the very real need to protect sensitive data, and the need to remain proportionate and aligned with wider business goals. In other words, tools cannot compromise on ease of use when programs are increasingly being evaluated and funded based on the publics and employees' experience.A recent report by Gartner titledspeaks to this dichotomy. Infrastructure, analytics and cloud computing are the top three technology priorities for government CIOs in all tiers and regions," the report states, "but the adoption of cloud services in government lags behind other industries.The desire for change is clear enough, from multi-agency project coordination and supplier management, through to employees' basic need to sync, share and publish files across desktop and mobile devices. But have governments moved quickly enough? The Gartner report goes on to say that for CIOs in general, in relatively short order, cloud has moved from a concept, to a possibility, to a viable option, though only a "small minority" of government CIOs are adopting a cloud-first approach when scoping new projects.More than two years ago, the UK government actively promoted its position on cloud technology.The Cloud First policy will embed the skills a modern civil service needs to meet the demands of 21st-century digital government and help us get ahead in the global race, said then-Minister for the Cabinet Office Francis Maude.Similarly, more than three years ago, the U.S. government paper Building a 21st Century Platform to Better Serve the American People concluded that, Going forward, we must pilot, document and rapidly scale new approaches to secure data and mobile technologies and address privacy concerns. ... Shifting to the cloud is one area of opportunity.What, then, is stopping some government bodies from actually taking to the cloud?The obstacle is security or the perception of it.Of CIOs who participated in the Gartner 2015 CIO Agenda research, 91 percent think the digital world creates new types and increased levels of risk in government. In addition, government CIOs are hampered by complex legacy IT environments that must be simplified and modernized.In independent research that collaboration and project management software vendor Huddle commissioned into public-sector IT practices in the UK, the results show that just 37 percent of central government employees are confident using cloud IT. Furthermore, only a little over half of staff in IT departments are self-assured using cloud platforms, with almost one quarter claiming not to have used one at all. This is a major barrier to effectively implementing many of the governments service evolution programs, and one that almost certainly also exists in the U.S.The reason for this uncertainty emanates from fears surrounding security, the time and effort it takes to move to cloud platforms, and a lack of expertise to implement them. Nearly half of central government staff felt their organizations could not see the benefit in cloud computing. But the research also suggests that a huge 93 percent of central government staff share and work on information with external organizations. If this external data collaboration is not taking place via secure cloud platforms, then insecure and inefficient approaches are filling the void email, post and even couriered hard copies.Yet the importance of effective security cannot be underestimated. Not just the basic concern of the sensitivity of the data that public-sector bodies hold, but also the degree to which external collaboration features in daily public-sector life.Public-sector CIOs need to recognize that moving to the cloud is a cultural revolution, as well as a technological evolution. The first step to this is reversing the security fears. A frontline lack of trust in cloud security is the fundamental Achilles heel of the wider and faster adoption of public-sector cloud services.The U.S. government's official FedRAMP certification ensures that cloud services maintain a certain level of quality and security. CIOs who are concerned about the safety of their data or the feasibility of using the cloud can easily use the FedRAMP certification to vet potential solutions and have confidence that their cloud strategy will be appropriately supported.In addition, seeking out products with certified data centers ensures that any sensitive information an organization is hosting will be stored securely. CIOs must simply look for Statement on Auditing Standards (SAS) 70 Type II and Statement on Standards for Attestation Engagements (SSAE) 16 data center accreditation to put their minds at ease.If government is willing to harness the power of the cloud, it has the potential to dramatically change the way this country operates for the better ... now it just needs the right person to lead the way. Ahead of the final week of pre-season testing, it seems Mercedes and Ferrari are still ahead of the pack in 2016. Finishing third for the past two years was Williams, but Felipe Massa seemed to acknowledge that the Grove team may not achieve the leap it wants. "I really hope we can race the guys in front," he told Australia's Fairfax Media, "but maybe Red Bull is in front so we have idea who will really be the team we are going to fight in most of the races." Massa said his only real prediction so far is that Mercedes is still leading the field, which is backed by evidence in Auto Motor und Sport (Germany) and the BBC (Britain) that suggests the German engine is the most powerful. Brazilian Massa admits that may not be what the fans want to hear. "The fans want to see different cars winning races, but this is the most difficult thing for formula one to make it happen," he said. All eyes, therefore, are on Ferrari, the team with the best chance of taking on Mercedes this year, and Sebastian Vettel and Kimi Raikkonen both say the 2016 car is better than its predecessor. "Everyone is going to be saying that their car feels better than last year," Williams' Valtteri Bottas smiled to the Finnish broadcaster MTV. And analysing the opening week of testing in Barcelona has proved difficult, with Mercedes reportedly having used only a single engine and no ultra soft tyres. Force India, on the other hand, has been accused of 'showboating'. "No, we did nothing like that," insisted Sergio Perez when asked if the team had put up artificially fast times by removing all the fuel from the car. "Our times are completely genuine, even if it is hard for everyone to assess where they are. But I can say that we are moving in the right direction." All the while, Mercedes appears ahead of the pack. "There are other teams that have looked good but it will come down to a fight between Ferrari and us," predicted Nico Rosberg, according to Le Figaro. As to which of them is the strongest, Ferrari team boss Maurizio Arrivabene thinks more will be known after this week's last four days of pre-season testing in Barcelona. "According to our drivers and engineers, we have a good car," he told La Stampa newspaper. "But we still lack the comparison with Mercedes under identical conditions. I guess in the next four days of testing, we will get a clearer picture of where we stand," Arrivabene said. (GMM) YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. 900 Armenian families deported from Azerbaijan and living in Armenia are waiting for the solution of their housing problem, head of the State Migration Service Gagik Yeganyan told Armenpress. Years ago we organized a conference of donors, delegations from nearly 50 states were invited, UN High Commissioner attended it. Only the Government of Brazil promised an aid of 50 thousand USD. Of course, we can understand the other countries, because, unfortunately, a new wave of refuses rises due to the hot spots in different parts of the world. The international community tries to extinguish newly erupted fires like in Syria or Iraq, Gagik Eganyan said. In his words, the entire burden of providing our compatriots deported from Azerbaijan with houses has remained on the shoulders of solely the Armenian government. Back in 2004 the Government had confirmed a plan which had to solve the housing problem of the most vulnerable refugees. 1100 families acquired certificates until 2009 thank to which they managed to improve their housing conditions. As Gagik Eganyan informed, since 2009 there have been no allocations in the budget for that plan, and 900 deported people are still waiting for their houses. A move in the issue of solving the housing problem of the refugees came after some years. 43 refugee families received apartments in 2015. Within the framework of the collaboration between the Government and Yerevan Municipality new buildings were constructed in the place of buildings subject to dismantling, and their residents, including the refugees, received new apartments. 43 families having lived in dire conditions for 26 years finally were able to improve their housing conditions, Gagik Eganyan added. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. New Year - new books. "Armenpress" news agency continues presenting the "New Book" project. The project aims at giving information about books published in Armenian publishing houses. Readers may find information on the agencys pages about the trend in the development of modern and classic works of literature. Select books from our diverse list and start reading. This week "Armenpress" again singled out two remarkable new books, published under the titles: Nobel prize winners Patrick Modiano, "So you dont get lost in the neighborhood." The "So you dont get lost in the neighborhood" novel is a journey from loneliness to solitude, while at the same time the story resembles colorful urban city life. Translated from French by Shushanik Tamrazyan. Introduction: Vahram Danielyan. Editor: Arkmenik Nikoghosyan. The book was published by "Antares". Childrens literature Astrid Lindgren, New Pranks of Emil from Lonneberga This Swedish children's book continues to follow the diary of Emils mother, telling us about the mischief and pranks of the little boy. Many holiday dinner tables are present in the story, and Emil, appearing on them like a comet not only arouses great laughter , fear and respect, but also manages to feed all the hungry elderly people at the poorhouse, teaching a lesson to the powerful Chef. Now not only his mother, but everyone knows how good hearted the boy is with the golden curls and blue-eyes. Translated by Ashkhen Bakhchinyan. Published by "Zangak. New Book presented by Roza Grigoryan YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 22, ARMENPRESS. More than 1100 shots from different caliber weapons were fired by the enemy towards Armenian positions in the line of contact in Nagorno Karabakh during the weekend. As "Armenpress" was informed from the press service of the Ministry of Defense of the Republic of Nagorno Karabakh (NKR), NKRs Defense Army continues to carry out their military duty and conduct response actions only under strict necessity. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. Syrian Army pushed back the "Jabhat Nusra" terrorist group attack on a military camp, 40 kilometers south of the city of Hama on February 28. As "Armenpress" reports ,citing the SANA news agency, government forces killed dozens of militants and destroyed four armored vehicles during the clashes in the Khor Benfasi region. According to the agency, more than 20 ISIS terrorists were killed in Al-Bukamal as a result of operations conducted by the troops in Deir ez-Zor region, Tass informed. In another round of the budget fight over hospital funding, a legislator has proposed penalizing nonprofit hospitals that pay administrators more than $500,000 a year by requiring the institutions to pay municipal property taxes. Most hospitals pay their top executives much more than that. Greenwich Hospital paid its CEO $1.5 million in salary and benefits in the 2013-14 fiscal year. Gov. Dannel P. Malloy has claimed hospital executive pay proves they are no longer functioning as nonprofits, while hospitals have fired back that the state continually shortchanges them on Medicaid reimbursements and overtaxes them. The acrimony has worsened as the states budget deficit increased. The legislation was introduced by state Rep. Susan Johnson, D-Windham, who said that if hospitals can afford to pay executives high salaries, they can afford to contribute to their communities. Weve been fighting for the hospitals at the Capitol to make sure they are adequately funded, but I kept hearing about administrators salaries and how theyre making a few million dollars a year, Johnson said. Having a cap here will help us provide more money to town services and educational services, particularly in these areas where the hospitals are. The Connecticut Hospital Association opposes the proposal, saying it would hurt the hospitals ability to recruit first-rate executive talent. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. The EU seeks to establish political dialogue with Iran and resume mutually beneficial economic ties, which will positively affect Irans neighboring countries. Armenpress reports head of the EUs foreign affairs told about this in an interview with Trend agency. I just received Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif in Brussels a few days ago, to discuss both regional and bilateral issues, and I am planning to travel to Teheran soon, together with a number of other European commissioners, she said. There is common willingness to have a regular political dialogue and restore close economic ties, she said. I am sure that such renewed engagement will not only benefit the citizens of Iran and of our European Union: the positive spill-overs can reach the entire region starting from Iran's neighbours, of course, she added. The chain was poised for blockbuster growth. Now its millions of dollars in debt. Photo: Victor J. Blue/Bloomberg via Getty Images In July of 2011, Fairway Markets held the grand opening of its Upper East Side store, the eighth location of the beloved, New York-based grocery chain. The occasion was marked with lines of customers stretching down East 86th Street, waiting hours to buy some olive oil, or maybe some fresh-roasted coffee beans even though the original location, which sold the same products, was just across Central Park. By the time Fairways 15th outpost opened in Lake Grove, Long Island, in 2014, the growing empire looked poised for Whole Foods-like expansion, a national chain committed to high-quality sourcing that was perfectly aligned with Americas increased appetite for excellent food. Instead, just two years later, the Lake Grove location will likely be the last new Fairway: The company is saddled with $267 million in debt and on the brink of bankruptcy, and its stock price, which once peaked at $28 per share, is selling for roughly 30 cents. The collapse has been swift and brutal. Lives have been totally changed and ruined, says one former buyer for the chain. What happened was an injustice. The companys current leadership didnt respond to requests for an interview, although past high-level employees were willing to speak on the condition of anonymity. But almost everyone agrees that a confluence of issues including an overly aggressive and poorly executed expansion plan and rising competition in the quality-produce business are the reasons Fairway is now in crisis. It was a perfect storm, says a former executive for the company. Fairway Market started as a fruit and vegetable stand on the Upper West Side in 1933 and eventually grew into the nerve center of a culinary revolution. Throughout the 80s, 90s, and early aughts, it was a pioneer in selling the then-rare ingredients we all take for granted now: Spanish clementines, fresh goat cheese, authentic balsamic vinegar, creme fraiche from Normandy. The owners Howie Glickberg (whose grandfather, Nathan, started the business), Harold Seybert, and David Sneddon were making a small fortune on blueberry jam, pickled herring, and mozzarella di bufala. Expansion was slow. The second store in West Harlem didnt open until 1995. People thought we were crazy, says another former exec. They thought nobody would trek up to Harlem, but they were wrong. It was a huge success, but even still, it would be six more years before a third outpost opened, this one in Plainview, Long Island. 2006 saw the opening of the store in Red Hook then the far reaches of the universe as far as most New Yorkers were concerned but the sprawling parking lot was soon full around the clock. Seybert and Sneddon were ready to cash out and retire. Glickberg was not, and went looking for a partner that could provide the capital infusion to support more growth. He found Sterling Investment Partners, a private equity fund based in Westport, Connecticut. As one former exec puts it, The private equity guys believed that the Fairway brand was so strong that it could operate pretty much anywhere, with fanfare. Sterling took a majority ownership of Fairway Market in early 2007. Glickberg stuck around as the vice-chairman of development and the New York family face of the mushrooming business. By the end of 2011, the market was nine stores strong and employed about 3,500 people in New York, Connecticut, and New Jersey. I began working there that same year. I was 24. I started behind the cheese counter, cutting and wrapping massive wheels of Parmigiano Reggiano. Eventually I worked my way up to a job as the director of copywriting and communications, a fancy title that I created and they approved. I loved it. We roasted our own coffee and butchered our own subprimals. I gave tours to visiting luminaries and investors, waxed poetic about bialys, hosted olive-oil tastings, and blogged about our new Lambrusco vinegar. But even then, the place was kind of a mess: It took months to get paid, with leadership claiming paychecks had been lost on the truck to Red Hook. As expansion scaled, finding talented, knowledgeable staff became more difficult, so quality at new locations began to suffer. It became increasingly apparent that Fairways corporate leaders were good at running two or three stores, but they didnt make the right preparations to run a dozen. There were not processes or systems in place that were scalable, says one erstwhile executive. The leadership was completely incompetent. I alone helped open new stores on the Upper East Side; in Douglaston, Queens; Woodland Park, New Jersey; Westbury, New York; Kips Bay and Chelsea; and Nanuet and Lake Grove. We pulled all-nighters, everyone chipping in to hang signs and stock shelves. Even 12 hours before letting customers in, the store would be packed with coffee roasters running on overdrive and construction workers covering exposed wires and cleaning, remembers my former co-worker, Ryan Casey, who began in the coffee department. Fanfare was hit-or-miss. Some stores had next to no buzz when they opened, instant disappointments. Fairway moved into suburbs with not enough people to fill a block or two on the Upper West Side, says Daniel Webster, a veteran grocery-industry expert. There was overexpansion in lower volume markets. They should have known better. Newer stores opened in strange areas without sufficient research or enough population density to support them. The private equity guys overpromised and underperformed. They are an unpopular crowd, Webster adds. Even still, many employees envisioned a future with hundreds of stores around the country. The company borrowed, and borrowed some more, growing on a foundation of debt that hugely eclipsed its capital. Eventually, Fairway decided to go public, a move that many say was disastrous. They got both the price and the timing wrong, says PD Shah, CEO of PDS Capital Management. The IPO was way too soon, one of the former executives explains. There was no reason to go public. Another mentioned that the company was less than rigorously honest in calculating its margins. An antiquated POS (point of sale) system, feeble inventory management, and lack of logistics infrastructure further crippled the company. To turn a profit in the grocery business, you need high turnover and high margins, Webster says. With the broken logistics chain, both of those things suffered. Its a nightmare. At the same time, competitors like Trader Joes, or the almighty Whole Foods, which has opened stores across New York in the last several years moved in and even bodegas began carrying goat cheese, Castelvetrano olives, and Carrs water crackers. At the same time, its tougher than ever for the grocery sector in general. Larger empires have fallen: The grocery behemoth A&P recently filed for bankruptcy. There are so many places in New York to find excellent products at good prices, Webster says. Its tough competition. In some ways, Fairway also became the victim of its own initial success. Aaron Foster, proprietor of Foster Sundry, a new specialty cheese and butcher shop in Bushwick, notes that our eating and shopping habits as a country have evolved significantly over the past 20 years. With way more access to exotic ingredients, and more knowledge about authenticity, food safety, traceability, local and organic, shoppers have higher standards than ever. And while others have caught up to Fairway, the stores themselves have also lost a lot of the character that made them feel unique in the first place. There are no more off-color jokes on laminated signs, or flatbreads piled sky-high. Nearly all of my former co-workers are long gone. Some people who were once associated with the company still have hope that Fairway can return to its former glory, but industry watchers say the only way out now is to restructure and close at least some of the chains 15 stores. A total rebound looks unlikely. At this point, it might be more realistic to hope that the original UWS location can survive long enough to see its 100th anniversary. Update: Fairway officially filed for bankruptcy on May 2. A new rumor out of China today claims that Lenovo's sub-brand ZUK is busy working on a 'mini' smartphone of its own. This will apparently come with a 4.7-inch 720p touchscreen, thus appealing primarily to people who consider most of today's handsets too big to handle properly. The small ZUK device will be offered in two hardware options, with either 2GB of RAM and 16GB of built-in storage, or 3GB of RAM and 32GB of space. It's said to employ MediaTek's Helio P10 chipset, which comes with an octa-core Cortex-A53 CPU that can be clocked at up to 2 GHz, and the Mali-T860MP2 GPU. The phone will have a fingerprint scanner, though its placement is unclear for now. Also not known at this point is whether Lenovo will choose to simply shrink the Z1's design (shown in the image above) for this 'mini' handset, or go with something new. Other details haven't been leaked yet unfortunately, so it's impossible to tell if the international version will run Cyanogen OS (like is the case with the Z1). And pricing is still a mystery too. Hopefully this wasn't just a baseless rumor and more information about the 'mini' ZUK phone will emerge soon. Source YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. Russia-Turkey confrontation continues to deepen. It has reached to the Turkish parliament. Armenpress reports referring to Turkish mass media, Russia is not included in the friendship groups of the Turkish parliament. In addition to Russia, there are no friendship groups with Syria, Israel, and Egypt. Palestinian Authority is included in the friendship groups set by the Turkish parliament. The Russian bomber was shot down over Syria by an air-to-air surface fired from a Turkish F-16 plane when the bomber was at an altitude of 6,000 meters at a distance of 1 km from the Turkish border. The jet dropped 4 km away from the Turkish border. According to President Putin, the Su-24 plane incident in is "a stab in Russias back delivered by terrorist accomplices. The Russian President issues a decree after the incident imposing economic sanctions on Turkey. All Turkish initiatives to normalize relations with Russia remained without response. Haiti - Diaspora : A Haitian-American president of Xavier University (Louisiana) Friday was held the inauguration ceremony of Dr. Reynold Verret as the new President of the Catholic University Xavier (Louisiana). Dr. Verret, born in Port-au-Prince October 8, 1954, was exiled to the United States in 1963 to escape the Duvalier dictatorship. He obtained in 1982 his doctorate in biochemistry from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Dr. Verret is the 6th President of Xavier University, which hosts mostly black students. He takes over from Dr. Norman Francis, who took a well deserved retirement after 47 years of career. PI/ HaitiLibre Haiti - Politic : Vote of confidence, the PM in the hunt for votes Invested since Friday as Prime minister in charge to constitute a transitional government https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-16725-haiti-flash-inauguration-of-the-prime-minister-named.html , the economist Fritz-Alphonse Jean must now make sure to get a vote of confidence in Parliament on his General Policy. A task all the more difficult, that no political group constituted in Parliament in both houses, holds an absolute majority, which will force him to negotiate with all political blocs to try to secure the 16 votes in the Senate and 60 votes in the lower house, the majority required to obtain a vote of confidence. The Senate currently consists of 2 groups. The majority opposition group (G15) composed of 15 senators, including the President of the Upper House (who may not vote) seems acquired to the Prime Minister, which theoretically represents 14 votes. He will therefore have to convince two senators of the minority group (G9) to vote in his favor, which is not earned if the minority senators are in solidarity, the G9 having disapprove the nomination of the Prime Minister and does not intend to endorse his General Policy statement as stated by the G9 leader Sen. Youri Latortue. The lower house is composed of 3 political blocs constituted : the majority Block "Parliamentary Alliance for Haiti" (APH) composed f 48deputies (G48), which has taken a position against the nomination of Fritz Jean as Prime Minister and accordingly against his General Policy, "The Provisional President should not choose a friend as Prime Minister he must choose a person who will carry out the elections, to complement those already begun, for the country to have a chance and be equipped with an elected president," declared Deputy Rony Celestin, President of G48. The other two blocks together represent 44 deputies. The "Parliamentary Group at the Listening of the People" composed of 33 deputies of various trends and the" Group of independent deputies" (GPI) composed of 11 independent deputies. Here again Prime Minister Jean must try to convince of Deputies of majority group to vote for his general policy, if he wants to get the 60 votes required. According Abel Descollines, the first Secretary of the Chamber of Deputies and member of the Group of Independent Deputies the GPI which appears as a block above the personal interests and at the services of interests of the Nation, and which does not intend to become blocking element to the vote of confidence of the General Policy of the Prime Minister, as long as the latter meets the constitutional requirements. See also : https://www.haitilibre.com/en/news-16739-haiti-politic-who-is-fritz-alphonse-jean.html SL/ HaitiLibre Haiti - News : Zapping politics... A violation of the agreement concluded Guichard Dore, strategic advisor to the PHTK said that "the decision of the provisional President, Jocelerme Privert to unilaterally name as Prime Minister Jean Fritz is a violation of the agreement with the former President Martelly and the two branches of Parliament on 6 February "[...] we are dealing with a mono-color power," ndicating that former Senator Privert was "its designer, writer, negotiator signatory and beneficiary of this agreement ans is the first to trampling it." "A parliamentary coup" Sauveur Pierre Etienne, G8 member said the provisional presidency is comparable to "a parliamentary coup, a situation that is exacerbated by the appointment of former Governor of the BRH, Fritz-Alphonbse Jean," he said fear "an envenoming of the socio-political crisis," and calls on all stakeholders to dialogue. the G48 against the nomination of Fritz Jean The Deputy Rony Celestin, President of the majority bloc in the lower house composed of 48 deputies "Parliamentary Alliance for Haiti" APH (G48), spoke against the appointment of Mr Jean Fritz as Prime Minister stressing "The provisional president should not choose a friend as Prime Minister, he must choose a person who will carry out the elections, to complement those already started, so that the country have a chance to be with a president elected." Call to ratify the General Policy Edouard Paultre, Coordinator of the Haitian Council of Non State Actors (CONHANE) called on parliamentarians to demonstrate responsibility in the process of ratification of the statement of the general policy of named prime minister, Fritz Jean, considering that the situation is serious and the priority today should be the mission to accomplish and not the person who performs it. Cholzer Chancy expects documents of PM According to the Deputy Cholzer Chancy (AAA), President of the Chamber of Deputies, his office had not yet officially concerned by the nomination of Mr. Jean as Prime Minister. He considers that the documents of the latter must first be examined by a Commission before he can have the privilege of forming his government. Lavalas is not in power Maryse Narcisse says Friday Maryse Narcisse former presidential candidate and Coordinator of Fanmi Lavalas confirmed the watchword of mobilization of arty for the formation of an electoral Commission of truth and a credible CEP bringing 9 new members. Also reacting on the designationof Fritz Alphonse Jean as Prime Minister by President Jocelerme Privert, both of Lavalas trend, she reiterated that the Lavalas Party was not in power and that "The results will able to respond to the question was it a good choice or not." HL/ HaitiLibre Korean Movie | 2002 Action Comedy Directed by Cho Ui-seok () Written by Cho Ui-seok () 110min | Release date in South Korea: 2002/05/10 Three high school students - Sung-hwan. Woo-sup and Jin-won are on their way back from a birthday party for Sung-hwan's father. Several minutes later, a huge lump of cash and a bloody corpse crash on top of their car. With only a split second to decide, there is no option left for them... Meanwhile, a dedicated young detective named Ji-hyung, suspects Sung-hwan, Woo-sup and Jin-won of hiding the money, and watches every move they make. In the meantime, the real thieves and a ruthless gang are looking to get their money back. After the case gets terminated, Sung-hwan, Woo-sup and Jin-won secretly go to the place where Sung-hwan stashed the money. They look inside a pit to discover a new surprise waiting for them. Source Published on 2016/02/28 | Source Park Si-hoo is back with a complicated story behind him. Feeling guilty for a friend's death in the past, Park Si-hoo lives quietly as a neighborhood hero. In the meanwhile, he is tracking down the truth about the death of his friend. Advertisement OCN weekend drama "Neighborhood Hero" is the story of a former national agent who wants to find out the truth behind his friend's death, teaming up with a poor job applicant and a corrupted police to secretly fight crime in their neighborhood. Si-yoon (Park Si-hoo) quits the National Intelligence Agency and runs a bar. Sang-min (Yoon Tae-young) wants to demolish the neighborhood and build a mall related to Hallyu. So he orders gangsters to terrorize the neighborhood. Si-yoon turns into a shadow and attacks those gangsters. However, he is caught and arrested. Sang-min's men tell them Si-yoon attacked them with a knife first but Chan-gyu (Lee Soo-hyuk) who saw everything, sides with Si-yoon. Si-yoon was released thanks to Chan-kyu. Chan=kyu observes Si-yoon through his ex-girlfriend Seo-ahn and Si-yoon suspects Seo-ahn who comes back to him. Si-yoon tells Seo-ahn the wrong information and makes Seo-ahn convince Chan-kyu. In the end, Chan-kyu threatens the police to release Si-yoon. Si-yoon then lures Chan-kyu and tells him that everyone's death was linked to each other. Si-yoon told Tae-ho (Cho Seong-ha) and Chan-kyu about his plan. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. In the upcoming five days it will be possible to deliver humanitarian aid to 154 thousand Syrians living in the besieged areas. As "Armenpress" reports, the UN humanitarian coordinator for Syria Yacoub El Hillo said in a message on February 28. According to him, the Russia-US supported ceasefire is the best opportunity for The Syrian people to achieve long- term peace and stability. "But we know that in case not supported and reinforced by serious political decisions, the cessation of military operations and arrival of humanitarian aid will not be enough to overcome the crisis in Syria the coordinator said. According to the report, the UN hopes to bring aid to Muadamia on February 29, Zabadani,Madaya, El Fua, Kefraya March 2, and on March 4 to Kafr Batna. According to the UN, over 480 thousand people are located in the besieged areas of Syria, TASS informed. Harlow is a former New Town in Essex with a population of 86,000. Located in the upper Stort Valley, it was built in the decades after the Second World War to ease overcrowding and London and provide homes for people bombed out during the Blitz. It includes Britain's first pedestrian precinct and first modern residential tower block, The Lawn. Old Harlow, the historic part of the town, was mentioned in the Domesday Book. David and Victoria Beckham's former home, Rowneybury House, nicknamed 'Beckingham Palace', is nearby. 20:37, 21 OCT 2022 Going on a Hawaiian vacation is incredibly exciting, but planning your trip means youre faced with one tough decision right out of the gate: Which island do you choose? All of Hawaiis islands are sure to impress, but each has its own personality. Depending on the kind of vacation youre looking for, youll probably want to pick one over the other. Heres a quick overview of the kinds of things you might want out of a trip, and how Hawaiis four biggest islands can each satisfy those desires. Once youve figured out the right island for you, find the perfect Hawaiian vacation home for your visit. Great food Oahu Foodies will love a trip to Hawaiis most popular island. Since Oahu holds the state capital, Honolulu, it also has some of the greatest restaurants in the entire chain. Whether youre looking for an elegant sit-down dinner or trying to find the best food truck around, youll have plenty of options there. If you have a sweet tooth, grab a coco puff from the Liliha bakery. Looking to dive into some traditional fare? Check out Helenas Hawaiian Food for dishes like kalua pig and luau squid. And of course, it wouldnt be Hawaiian dining without Spam head out to the iconic Rainbow Drive-In for some Spam and eggs. Spam is one of the most popular foods in Hawaii. Relaxation Maui With 81 beautiful beaches, Maui is the perfect island for kicking back and soaking up the sun. One of the most fun things you can do on Maui? Tour the historic Road to Hana. Along this scenic byway are plenty of places to pick up some decadent banana bread, gaze on gorgeous waterfalls and enjoy a quick dip in a natural swimming hole. Maui is also a great island for stargazing: You can take a tour that brings you to the top of 10,000-foot-tall Mount Haleakala, from which there is a nearly unmatched view of the night sky. Incredible scenery Kauai Kauai is widely considered Hawaiis prettiest island, a reputation it has definitely earned. The island is chock full of lookout points that give you the chance to take in all of the incredible sights the landscape has to offer. From the black-sand beaches to the sprawling canyons and lush valleys, Kauai is truly stunning. In fact, its so pretty that filmmakers have used it as a scenic backdrop for decades Indiana Jones, Jurassic Park and Pirates of the Caribbean are just a few of the films to feature this island. Adventure The Big Island The Big Island is perfect for active travelers. If youre a fan of hiking, surfing, ziplining or any other outdoor activity, The Big Island is the spot for you. In addition to the plethora of trails throughout the island, this spot is also home to one of the U.S.s most exciting places: Hawaii Volcanoes National Park. Here you can see real-life lava flows from a safe distance dont let that phrase fool you, however, as youll be plenty close to the action. Moreover, this is one of the best islands for snorkeling or scuba diving. There are plenty of guided tours that will allow you to explore the vibrant sea life in Hawaiis waters. Adventurers of all ages will be satisfied by this islands impressive options. Sacking an employee for a breach of workplace safety may backfire on employers, as the onus is on organisations to provide safe working environments. Employers need to consider whether they have done everything reasonably practical to ensure their employees can do their work safely before taking disciplinary steps for a breach of workplace safety, says Lander & Rogers Work Health & Safety partner Leveasque Peterson. "Safety-related offences are strict liability and the duty to ensure a safe work environment is held by both employers and employees, Peterson told HC Online. However, it starts with you as an employer and unless you can demonstrate that you have done everything practicable to ensure your workplace is safe, you are likely to fall foul of the regulator, Only once the work environment is safe does it then fall to employees to ensure that they take reasonable care for themselves and others, she says. Various forms of employee misconduct such as being drunk on the job or engaging in serious neglect or incompetence can find employees in breach of work health and safety procedures. While serious breaches can give grounds for instant dismissal, employers should ensure that they are not acting in a knee-jerk reaction that would be frowned upon by the safety regulator. Employers also need to be able to demonstrate that the punishment fits the crime, Peterson says. "They should implement performance management for contraventions, where it is reasonable to do so, rather than instant dismissal, she says. Unless you are doing that, you are not setting yourself up for success if the relevant safety regulator becomes involved." One way employers can avoid falling foul of the safety regulator is ask themselves if they can do more to ensure safe working environments. It is critical that employees understand the hazards and the safety systems at their employer's workplace and HR has a key role to play in providing and documenting regular training of employees on these matters. Employers should also ensure that their employees know that a breach of safety rules will lead to disciplinary consequences, because after all, breaking safety rules can have terrible consequences, Peterson says. Dismissing employees for breaches of safety duties could backfire on an employer and damage workforce perceptions, says Lander & Rogers lawyer, Dr Dru Marsh. Consultation and then discipline supported by further training for non-serious breaches is likely to send a better message to your workforce than instant dismissal," Marsh says. By Bailey Faulkner Looking for a rockin time this week? Dont miss out on roots rock band Heartless Bastards at Legends this Wednesday, March 2. The increasingly popular group is filled out by: Erika Wennerstrom (vocals, guitar) Dave Colvin (percussion) Jesse Ebaugh (bass) Mark Nathan (guitar) The Heartless Bastards Hailing from Cincinnati, Ohio, the band took its name from an incorrect trivia night answer (the question asked for the name of Tom Pettys backing band). Since its first days in Cincinnati, the group has consistently showcased its unique sound and talents. Wennerstrom found musical inspiration in her teenage years, sneaking into bars and clubs to see her music heroes drink, hang out and play. I could see myself in them. It gave me inspiration to do my own thing, Wennerstrom said. After about a year of playing in Cincinnati, the band expanded to Akron, Ohio. One Akron gig was especially important for the bands early success. That night, they played to a room of only a handful of people, which included Patrick Carney, drummer for The Black Keys. Liking what he heard, Carney sent a Heartless Bastards demo to his label, Fat Possum Records. Noticing true talent, the record label quickly signed the group and started working on its debut album, Stairs and Elevators. The album was an instant hit, receiving 4 stars from Rolling Stone Magazine. The magazine commented that when Wennerstrom opens her throat on Stairs and Elevatorsshe sounds like shes wailing on the shoulders of giants; her sad and angry vocals channeling all the swagger and spit of a young Robert Plant. Experiencing some struggles within the band, Wennerstrom decided to move by herself to Austin, Texas in 2007 to work on her next project. After assembling a group of studio musicians, Wennerstrom completed The Mountain, the third album under the bands name. To tour in support of the album, Wennerstrom recruited Jesse Ebaugh and Dave Colvin, who had both appeared on Heartless Bastards demo tapes in the early days, and Austin native Mark Nathan. This incarnation of the band continues to record and tour today. The band released The Mountain in true rock and roll fashion, playing a release show at the famous South by Southwest festival in Austin. The New York Times review of the performance stated that the Heartless Bastards take the stage and literally knock everybody down. Since this final lineup change, the band has recorded two more studio albums, Arrow and Restless Ones. The band is currently touring in support of Restless Ones. Having now shared the stage with huge acts such as Wilco and Lucinda Williams, Heartless Bastards are quickly becoming a must-see act for music lovers around the country. Legends If you want to check out this Bob Dylan-, Ray Charles- and David Bowie-inspired rock group for yourself, youd be crazy not to go to Legends this Wednesday night. Tickets are $10 for students and $12 at the door and for the public. Doors will open at 9 p.m. and the show will begin at 9:30 p.m. The event is BYOB with a six-pack limit. You really dont want to miss out on this one! Share this: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn Reddit Pocket YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. A Scottish MP has spoken of her terrifying experience of being detained by security forces in Turkey for using her mobile phone, Armenpress reports citing The Guradian. Natalie McGarry says she was shoved repeatedly by a security officer and taken to a shack filled with guns during a tank bombardment on Kurds in the city of Diyarbakir in south-eastern Turkey. The Glasgow East MP was held for about two hours while visiting the Kurdish area of Sur on Thursday, as part of a British delegation highlighting the conflict between Kurdish separatists and Turkish government forces. The delegation had called for the British government to intervene to stop Kurdish civilians being attacked in Sur and filmed the armed forces in action. McGarry was near a security checkpoint when she began using her mobile phone to record the sound of bombs falling on Sur. After returning to Britain, McGarry used Twitter to describe her terrifying experience. She thanked the British Embassy and the Kurds of Sur for assisting her. Natalie McGarry said her experience showed the need for intervention in the conflict between Kurdish separatists and Turkish forces by NATO. My worst day ever yesterday. Still, I am proud we came out. Complete picture will start forming [and I] am sure we come out as a finer company, he stated on Twitter . Ari Lehtoranta, the chief executive officer at Nokian Tyres, has taken to social media to re-affirm his confidence in the future after the tyre manufacturer admitted to supplying car magazines and other organisations conducting tyre tests with modified tyres. Nokian Tyres admitted to discrepancies in its test practices after Kauppalehti reported on Friday citing internal e-mails and sources within the company that the tyre manufacturer has manipulated tyre tests for several years. The modified tyres were of such a high quality that their commercial production would not have been economically viable, according to the business-oriented newspaper. We wanted to bring up tyre testing in car media ourselves, as we have been increasing the transparency and ethicality of our operations on all levels, Lehtoranta says in a press release. In past years, when the test organisations asked manufacturers to send them tyres for the tests, activities in the industry were dubious. Major test organisations have now for years acquired the tyres from tyre stores, and also make control tests to the tyres afterwards. We apologise and regret the mistakes we have made in the past, he adds. He also points out that the updated test guidelines of Nokian Tyres unequivocally prohibit the design and production of tyres specifically for testing. The revelation has also sparked a debate about the bonuses and rewards enjoyed by business executives in Finland due to allegations that the main motivation for the tyre manufacturer to pursue stronger test scores with any means possible was its bonus and stock option scheme. The traditional tyre manufacturer has denied the allegations. The Board of Nokian Tyres has never decided on [] stock option schemes that would have encouraged cheating in tests, unlike what has been implied in the media, states Lehtoranta. Aleksi Teivainen HT Photo: Roni Rekomaa Lehtikuva Source: Uusi Suomi Petteri Orpo (NCP), the Minister of the Interior, has commended Russian President Vladimir Putin for adding a sense of urgency to the efforts to stem the tide of migrants across the border between Finland and Russia. Putin's statement on immigration is great. I'm looking forward to seeing the effects at the border. The negotiations will continue until the situation has been normalised, Orpo tweeted on Friday. Garda was taken by ambulance to St James's Hospital (Stock picture) A garda suffered a stab wound to the leg and was beaten about the head while trying to arrest a man in Dundrum. The incident happened in the Hillview Estate in Ballinteer after reports of a stolen car being driven in the area. Gardai from Dundrum responded to the call at 6am yesterday, and when they arrived a group of youths abandoned the car and ran off. The vehicle, a 141 D registration Kia Picanto, had been reported stolen from the Rathfarnham area. One of the officers chased one of the suspects who ran to a house. But while the garda was trying to arrest the youth, a number of young men emerged from the house and began attacking him. Scans He was set upon and received a wound to the back of his leg and a number of blows to the back of his head. The officer was taken by ambulance to St James's Hospital where he was treated for his injuries and kept in for CT scans to assess the level of his head injuries. He was described last night as being in a comfortable condition. Other gardai provided backup when the situation flared up. Two men aged 18 and 20 were arrested for road traffic and public order offences and will appear in court at a later date. A garda spokesman said the attack was a frightening example of the type of violence members of the force face on a daily basis as they carry out their work. A deadly gangland feud that has claimed three lives already is set to see some of the biggest figures on the international crime scene become involved as the two sides attempt to boost their numbers Gerry the Monk Hutch (inset) is reported to be recruiting contacts across the EU, including the UK, Spain and the Netherlands as tensions escalate with Daniel Kinahans mob. It emerged last week that The Monk had met with senior drug trafficker George The Penguin Mitchell over the current feud. Mitchell has major links with international groups, including Moroccan drug gangs and Colombian cartels, and although he never had a close relationship with Hutch it is believed they built up strong ties through mutual contacts. Kinahan and Liam Byrne, the brother of murdered gang member David, fled to London in an attempt to regroup. Sources have previously warned that the most recent murders were only the beginning, and associates of Gerry Hutch recently issued a chilling message, stating that the feud wont end until Daniel Kinahan is dead. Detectives are concerned by the hardened attitude displayed by members of the mob connected to slain Gary Hutch, despite last weeks massive raids on the gang at 11 locations in the capital. Many former Kinahan associates from the north-inner city have aligned themselves with the Hutch side in disgust at the murder of Gary Hutch, whose death sparked the current feud. One of the former associates who has cut his ties is a criminal suspected of carrying out the murders of Paul Kavanagh last year, as well as Eamon The Don Dunne in 2010, on behalf of the Kinahan cartel. Gary Hutch was gunned down outside an apartment complex near Marbella in Spain last September, despite his family paying over 200,000 to associates of Daniel Kinahan to ensure his safety. THE country will be run by a caretaker government for months as Fine Gael and Fianna Fail struggle to deal with the fallout of an unprecedented election result. The deposed coalition, including ministers who were dumped by voters, will meet as early as tomorrow to discuss how to continue in power despite their losses. A stalemate situation is developing as Taoiseach Enda Kenny attempts to buy time for his leadership and Micheal Martin assesses whether he should risk supporting a minority government. Panic Both parties accept that a new government will not be formed by the time the Dail meets on March 10 to elect a Taoiseach. Mr Kenny and Tanaiste Joan Burton spoke yesterday and agreed to hold a Cabinet meeting that will include James Reilly and Alex White, who have lost their seats. Fianna Fail sources said Mr Martin is in no panic to talk with other parties about potential coalition options, though it is likely he will be proposed as Taoiseach when the Dail convenes. His party has more than doubled its seats but will still be about 10 behind Fine Gael once all the ballots are counted. We will wait until the dust settles. Its a really good result for Fianna Fail but the onus is still on Fine Gael to make the first move, said a party source. Together, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail will have more than the 80 seats needed for a coalition, but working out a coalition will be difficult. Speculation is also rife within Fine Gael that Enda Kennys term as leader is coming to an end after a disastrous result that saw the party lose more than 20 seats. He has indicated that he will remain as Taoiseach in the national interest until a new government is formed. Ms Burton said she will support the re-election of Mr Kenny as Taoiseach if that is proposed on March 10, but acknowledged there is likely to be a deadlock. In that event, President Michael D Higgins may request the outgoing government to stay on for a further period until a new one can be formed. Fine Gaels director of elections Brian Hayes told the Herald that coalition talks will take months. This is going to be a very complicated, slow but public process, he said. The electorate have thrown up a result that we now have to interpret and understand. We said we wouldnt go in with Fianna Fail, they said they wouldnt go in with us. That is the de facto position, so if people are going to move from positions like that its going to take time. Mr Hayes said Fine Gael had lost the election and there was now a fundamental responsibility for all parties to talk to each other. Im very much opposed to this idea that we can in some way go back to the electorate and say, Lets have another election, please, because we dont like the result. Thats utter nonsense. The people have spoken, he said. Responsibility Fianna Fail was keen last night to play down the idea of a grand coalition with Fine Gael which Mr Martin had repeatedly ruled out. Fianna Fail general secretary Sean Dorgan said enormous difference exists between the two parties and politicians need to assess whats happened. Theres a very clear message being sent from the electorate, so parliament needs to take its responsibility very seriously. The days with a massive majority are over, he said. Were Europeanising our government. I think Micheal Martin will be proposed as Taoiseach on March 10, but its not as simple as two plus two is four. Fianna Fail will have both Dublin representatives and women swelling its ranks when the Dail returns. The party is likely to end up with 42 seats when the voting concludes, with all but one of its outgoing TDs returning. The result marks a massive comeback for Fianna Fail, which collected 24.3pc of first preference votes this time compared with 17.4pc in 2011. Mr Martin said the party had fought the campaign on getting fairness back into Irish politics and getting this Fine Gael-Labour government out of office. We have listened to the Irish people. We have worked hard to listen to what the Irish people had to say, he said. We will now listen very carefully to the message they spelled out at the ballot box. Darragh OBrien and John Curran will be returning after losing their seats five years ago, while Jim OCallaghan, John Lahart and Jack Chambers will be first-time TDs. Sean Haughey is all but certain to take a seat in Dublin Bay North. Mr Chambers, who won back the seat once held by Brian Lenihan in Dublin West, paid tribute to the late finance minister in his victory speech, describing him as a real patriot who inspired my own interest in politics. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARNENPRESS. Representatives of public sector will organize an eco-tourism festival this year for the first time aimed at making Armenias eco-tourism popular and rural communities attractive for tourists. The festival will be held in Gomk and Martiros communities of Vayots dzor Province. Jermuk Development Center and Young Biologists Association NGOs are the organizers of the festival. Armenpress reports president of Jermuk Development Center NGO Vazgen Galstyan detailed on the expected event, mentioning that they wish to combine fun with cognitive visit. He mentioned that the mentioned two communities are rich in cultural heritage and the climate makes more favorable conditions to organize the festival. Vazgen Galstyan also informed that different types of activities are included in the agenda of the festival, including sales of local foodstuff, exhibition of eco-tourism services, amateur rock climbing and so on. He mentioned that the event will be open; anyone can make suggestions which can be included in the program after discussion. We will start an active phase of discussions from March during which we will be glad to receive any kind of suggestion, he said. Gomk and Martiros villages are located in Vayots dzor Province, 20 km south-east of Vayk. The region is abundant in flora and fauna and is part of internationally recognized wildlife corridor. It is the habitat of pardu, Capra aegagrus, Ovis orientailis included in the Red Book of Armenia and IUCN red list. Karmradzor is located in Gomk, which even many locals have not seen due to its difficult-to-pass way. Rock engraved church Holy Mother of God constructed in 1286 is located in Martiros community. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. Artsakh Republic President Bako Sahakyan received the Republican Party of Armenia vice-president Mushegh Lalayan, head of the "Republican" (RPA) faction of the Armenian National Assembly Vahram Baghdasaryan, chairman of the parliament's standing commission on science, education, culture, youth and sport Artak Davtyan and member of the parliament Mnatsakan Mnatsakanyan, Armenpress was informed by Central Information Department of the office of the Artsakh Republic President. The meeting addressed issues related to cooperation between political forces of the two Armenian republics. President Sahakyan underlined the importance of such meetings and noted with satisfaction that practical meetings and discussions with the political parties of the Republic of Armenia take place in a periodic manner. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. 70 old Armenian houses are preserved in Nor Jugha (New Julfa). This was said during a press conference by researcher, professor of the Faculty of Arts of the University of Isfahan, Iran, Ahmad Montazer. "Armenians and Persians built houses differently in New Julfa. Both Armenian and Iranian houses were built of brick and clay. Stone was not used at all. Same applies to churches in Julfa. A 1985 research of Armenian houses showed that there are 300 houses. But this year's study showed that only 70 were preserved. The rest have been demolished ", "Armenpress "reports the researcher noting. According to Ahmad Montazer, the demolition of houses was not initiated by the state. "The Former residents sold the house to somebody, for whom the preservation was not important. Thus, the houses were demolished. During the Iranian revolution demolishing houses was widespread "he said, adding that the state seeks to prohibit the demolition. Ahmad Montazer said that there is also an organization that controls the area in an attempt to preserve houses, although it is very difficult. Those are 1 or 2 storey buildings. There is a plan to prohibit the entry of vehicles to that area, allowing people to walk into New Julfa, he added. The symposium entitled New Jugha is taking place in the National Museum-Institute of Architecture under the Ministry of Urban Development of the Republic of Armenia on February 29, which is attended by many researchers. Six school board candidates compete for three seats There are six candidates for three Washington County Board of Education seats in the Nov. 8 election. Three incumbents face challengers. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 28, ARMENPRESS. The Azerbaijani media is doing everything to present Aliyev's visit to Iran in an exaggerated way. The Azerbaijani President's visit to Iran does not i mply any new project, but reaffirms agreements reached previously between Iran and Azerbaijan. Some of those agreements were put on the agenda in early 2000s, however still have not become realities. This was said during a press conference today by expert in Iranian studies Rudik Yaralyan. Speaking about the parliamentary elections in Iran, the expert said. "It was predicted that two Armenian MPs would enter the Parliament. The MPs are Zhorzhik Abrahamian and Karen Khanlaryan. They were elected as members of a religious minority. Our expectations from the newly elected members are great at this stage, because we have to consider the cancellation of international sanctions against Iran which are opening up new prospects for the Armenian-Iranian relations. Therefore, Armenian MPs should make great efforts to be a connecting link between Armenia and Iran, "he said. Speaking about the Armenian-Iranian cooperation, Yaralyan added. "We cannot say that Armenia is passive compared to Azerbaijan. Iran gives importance to the policy of four corridors. And one of those four corridors is Armenia. And the agreements that are reached with Azerbaijan do not have a negative impact on Armenian-Iranian relations. Iran attaches great importance to the idea o f making Armenia a transit country, and the Iran-Armenia railway is also of great interest there. There are some financial problems, but with the unfreezing of the Iranian capital which amounts to $ 100 billion, there is hope that the Iranian side will be more active in implementing the program. If we compare the conditions in Armenia and Azerbaijan, Armenia has more opportunities of becoming a transit country for Iran in all aspects, "Rudik Yaralyan concluded. Meri Hambardzumyan YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARNENPRESS. According to data published by the National Statistical Service of Armenia, brandy production volume reached 637.0 thousand liters in January, 2016 in Armenia, which is an increase of 4.4% against the same period in 2015. Armenpress reports, B24.am website informs about the aforementioned. Armenian brandy production declined by 9.4% in 2015, totaling 16 million and 947.6 thousand liters. The decline was 8% in 2014 totaling 18 million 721.5 thousand liters. During the period of 2009-2013 Armenian brandy production recorded continuous rise. Nearly 20.2 million liters brandy was produced in our country in 2013 and 18.5 million liters in 2012, 15.3 million liters in 2011, 12.6 million liters in 2010 and 9.8 million liters in 2009. In the crisis year of 2008 our country produced 15.9 million liters brandy. This domain has expired. If you owned this domain, contact your domain registration service provider for further assistance. If you need help identifying your provider, visit https://www.tucowsdomains.com/ Hansal Mehta , producer -director of Aligarh, based on the life of Prof Shri Niwas Ramchandra Siras of Aligarh Muslim University (AMU), said on Monday that an extra-constitutional ban had been imposed on his film in the Aligarh district by people who had the support of mayor Shakuntala Bharti . Refuting the charges, Bharti said, I have only objected to the name of the film. Aligarh has the world-famous Aligarh Muslim University and poets like Padma Bhushan Gopal Das Neeraj. Using the name of such a city as the title of a film that is based on a gay scandal is an attempt to defame it. She further clarified, I have not talked to Hansal Mehta or any other person on the issue. I have not even demanded anything from the district administration only that the name of the film be changed. Read: Censor is behaving like a homophobic society, says Hansal Mehta on Aligarh Read: Change title of Manoj Bajpais Aligarh: AMU students, groups demand District officials too have confirmed that there was no ban on the release of Aligarh. If any cinema hall is not showing the film as a precautionary measure then that is their decision, they added. Apurva Asrani, scriptwriter of Aligarh told HT, The film does not depict the culture of Aligarh anywhere. Those who are alleging that the films title is defaming the city have not seen it. Rajkumar Rao, who plays the role of a journalist in the film said, People who are opposing the release of the film should first see it. Prof Siras spent 30 years in Aligarh and was a part of its culture. The film does not promote homosexuality. Read: Aligarh not banned, but town still uneasy about gay film Read: Aligarh review: A bleak tale told with tenderness Reportedly, a cinema hall in Aligarh had screened the movie on Friday. However, later due to fears of backlash, the owners decided not to screen any further shows. Expressing views on the controversy around the films title, Parvez Siddiqui, president of Sir Syed Minority Foundation said, If the producer changes the name (of the movie), I will roam around the city with him in favour of his film. Rajkumar Rao and Manoj Bajpayee in a still from Aligarh. (Eros) Among the groups that have registered protest against Aligarh is Millat Bedari Muhim Committee (MBMC). In a letter sent to union information & broadcasting minister, Ravi Shankar Prasad, MBMC had demanded a change in the name of the movie. MBMC secretary, Dr Jasim Mohammad even burnt down posters of the film. However, many citizens have an alternate view. Environmentalist, Ranjan Rana said, The film depicts reality. Cinema is our mirror and we should not curtail its freedom. If we cannot see the film here then we will go to Noida to see it. Watch: Manoj Bajpayee, rajkummar Rao in Aligarh trailer Different voices, one issue Prof Asim Siddiqui, media adviser to AMU VC said, I had seen a show of the film at 7.00 pm on Friday. There were very few viewers in the hall. Anil Shukla, manager of Great Value Mall said, We sold a few tickets online on February 26 and ran one show. Now we are not running any more shows. Avdhesh Tiwari, ADM (City) said, Cinema managements have not informed the district administration about any threat to security. If they request for security then we will provide it to them. Rajkummar Rao and Manoj Bajpai during the promotion of film Aligarh in Mumbai. (IANS Photo) Anshul Gupta, SP (City) said, If cinema hall owners desire to screen the shows, police will be deployed (to held them). MP Singh, inspector (entertainment tax) said, We cannot pressurise cinema hall managements to show or not show any film. The department is concerned only with tax. Follow @htshowbiz for more. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARNENPRESS. On the sidelines of the 31st session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Nalbandian met withPhilip Ruddock, Australias Special Envoy for Human Rights. As Armenpress was informed from the Department of Press, Information and Public Relations of MFA Armenia, Edward Nalbandian and Philip Ruddock touched upon the issues of tightening cooperation within international organizations. During the meeting, joint steps towards the development of bilateral relations were discussed, importance was attached to organization of high-level visits. The sides commended the role of the Armenian community in Australia in the expansion of bilateral cooperation. At the meeting, thoughts were exchanged on regional issues and ways to resolve them. You can never write-off Shah Rukh Khan from the numbers game. At a time when the industrys other big Khan, Salman, has made a habit of crossing the Rs 200 crore mark, Shah Rukh is back to reclaim his superstar status with Fan, which releases on 15 April. If the trailer of the film, released late on Monday night, is anything to go by, Fan is the film SRK fans cannot afford to miss. Watch: The much awaited trailer of SRKs Fan In quintessential Shah Rukh style, the trailer was released at Mumbais YRF Studios in the presence of over 4,000 fans. The traditional family audience is SRKs strength and he has appealed to them in this trailer. In fact, it aligns perfectly with the brand placements of both SRK and the Yash Raj Films. The trailer presents Shah Rukh Khan as superstar Aryan Khanna, who has c chance meeting with his fan Gaurav. And their begins a relationship that leads both of them to a dark path. Full of action scenes, it showcases Shah Rukh Khan as a mentally unstable fan who vows to make Aryan Khanna realise the importance of a fan in his life. Directed by Maneesh Sharma, Fan will also feature Shriya Pilgaonkar in a prominent role. Parineeti Chopra, while recently vacationing in Australia, kept posting updates about her trip on social media platforms. It was evident that Parineeti was having a great time. But things for the actor became more exciting for her when she managed to make it to the front page of a local newspaper there. Interacted with the Kuku Yalanji tribe. Learned a lot while walking through #MossmanGorge in @cairnsGBR #exploreTNQ pic.twitter.com/ct4VREB0bE Parineeti Chopra (@ParineetiChopra) February 26, 2016 A source close to Parineeti reveals, She has always wanted to visit Australia. She finally got a chance to take a trip there this year. She was very excited. Interestingly, her fans would often gather at her hotel. They wanted to meet her. The actor and her team were quite taken aback, as they did not expect such a response. Saw the most breathtaking sunset over the mountains on a cruise around @PortDouglas_Aus! @cairnsGBR #exploreTNQ pic.twitter.com/BbxAtOXweN Parineeti Chopra (@ParineetiChopra) February 26, 2016 The source adds that representatives from a local newspaper, called The Cairns Post, got in touch with her, and asked her to give them an interview. The source says, Parineeti obliged. She was amazed to see how popular Bollywood is becoming the world over. She spoke about her trip to Australia and about the Hindi film industry, among other things. The newspaper even published the first picture that Parineeti had uploaded online, photoshopped it and placed a Bollywood sign in the background, much like the famous Hollywood sign in Los Angeles, USA. Parineeti, who has just returned to Mumbai, says, The trip was awesome. I will never forget it. She adds, The recognition I got locally was amazing. Even at the airport, people told me that they had seen me in the news. Its cool that I could make a small mark there. Follow @htshowbiz for more. In a first of its kind, CBI director Anil Sinha and his aides will join heads of public sector banks at a meeting this week to discuss measures to curb financial frauds that contribute to non-performing assets (NPAs) of banks. The day-long brainstorming session in Mumbai on Wednesday is expected to focus on monitoring and sharing of information on suspicious transactions, illegal diversion of borrowed funds and new measures to tackle wilful defaulters, said three officials familiar with the development. The CMDs of 35-plus state-run banks and financial companies and top officials from the Reserve Bank are scheduled to attend the meeting, organised by the Indian Banks Association (IBA). This is the first time the CBI will be joining such a meeting. It comes at a time when rising NPAs have eroded profitability of banks and hit economic sentiments. The crisis has become so severe the Supreme Court has intervened. On February 16, a bench headed by Chief Justice TS Thakur asked the RBI to submit details on loans written off by PSU banks in the last five years along with particulars of alleged defaulters who owe Rs 500 crore or more, terming such practices a fraud on the public. According to government figures, gross NPAs of 39 listed banks stood at Rs 4.43 lakh crore in December 2015, nearly 10 times the level prevailing in 2009. The CBI is likely to ask banks to adopt measures to examine suspicious transactions that are often ignored by lenders. This includes stringent monitoring of multiple transactions undertaken from a single account, said an IBA official who didnt wish to be named. The agency is also expected to come up with prescriptions on strengthening compliance, especially on issues arising from the Rs 6,000 crore foreign exchange fraud at Bank of Baroda, the official added. A public sector bank chairman, who also spoke on condition of anonymity, said the issue of bad loans and wilful defaulters will be discussed at length, especially after the Supreme Court order the CBI is expected to come up with suggestions. The meeting will explore new legal provisions that may be needed to deal with wilful defaulters. A CBI official told HT Sinha will recommend improving processes of due diligence, credit appraisal and monitoring and measures to prevent money laundering or siphoning of loan funds abroad. The CBI, which probes loan defaults, has seen a spurt in NPA cases that have been referred to it. Since 2014, the CBI has lodged around 315 cases related to NPAs, including those pertaining to defaults, diversion of funds abroad, the agency official said. The CBI catches loan defaulters, including the big fish, but it has its limitations. Cases are mostly filed when banks refer them to us after having detected loan defaults in internal examination then their subsequent classification as NPAs, the official said. At times, we begin a probe on getting a complaint or intelligence from a source. Anisha Singh was two months pregnant when she started Mydala.com, a website that offers deals online. People thought she was crazy. Maybe she was. On April 5, 2009 she left office at 10 in the night. Work was in full swing. Mydala was growing fast. Singh had forgotten it was the week that the doctors expected her to deliver. After reaching home she started getting contractions. Her husband, Arjun, rushed her to the hospital, where she gave birth to their first child. Those were the days, she recalls. Those days Singh shared Mydalas office with her mothers dental clinic. The deals business was on the rise in India; 70-odd companies had started to offer everything on discount: food in restaurants, gym membership, and salon services, dancing lessons, body art, adventure sports Not much of it was left after two years as the deals business came down crashing. Companies shut down. Some, such as Snapdeal, pivoted to become online marketplaces. Singh stayed put. She was the only woman in the deals business all the other companies had been founded by men. I know I have a great business sense, she says. Fast forward six years. Mydala has been profitable for the past two, and enables Rs 4,000 crore of retail. Singh was one of the early birds in e-commerce, which has a rising number of women entrepreneurs. According to Sreedhar Prasad, partner, e-commerce and startups at KPMG, 15% to 17% of entrepreneurs in e-commerce are women. A few years ago, there were just 2-3%. Mother, wife, entrepreneur Sabina Chopra quit her cushy job with Japan Airways to start ticketing website Yatra.com with two male co-founders in 2005. Back then, she was the only woman in the trade. India had only 21 million Internet users (250 million in 2015). Chopra would get excited when the site sold 100 tickets. Today it does 25,000 a day. Women need to stop feeling guilty about not spending all their time with their children, says Chopra. She doesnt. Yatra.com founder Sabina Chopra. She was the first woman in India in the trade when she launched the website. (HT Photo) Nor does Radhika Aggarwal, co-founder of Shopclues, who believes women are more versatile. An angel investor herself, she feels comfortable investing in a company headed by a woman. Aggarwal manages her home and children as she steers ShopClues, which has become a billion-dollar company. She looks after branding, marketing, acquisitions, sales, hiring and product mix. People stereotype women, but women can do the job just as effectively as men, says Aggarwal. Shopclues co-founder Radhika Aggarwal. (HT Photo) Not just as effectively as men, maybe a little more, considering the evidence. Nidhi Agarwals startup, Kaaryah, promises clothes for every female body type. We studied 1,500 body types across the country and incubated our own stitching units. We make clothes suitable to almost every body type, she says. A file photo of Nidhi Agarwal, founder of clothing startup Kaaryah. (HT FIle Photo) Suchi Mukherjees Limeroad is into social commerce, and is changing the way people dress. It allows people to create their own style. Not just clothes, they can curate an entire scrapbook, or look, with all kinds of accessories such as shoes and jewellery, using products from 2,000 vendors featured on Limeroad. Suchi Mukherjee, founder of Limeroad. (HT Photo) Some find more than just their calling within the venture. Upasana Taku, co-founder of mobile wallet company MobiKwik, fell in love and married her co-founder Bipin Preet Singh while building the company. Regardless, MobiKwiks angel investment depended on Takus views on becoming a mother. I assured them that whenever I planned a child, work wouldnt get affected, says Taku. However, she did not take money from the motherhood-fixated investor. And she did go on to have a child. It did not come in the way of MobiKwik becoming the countrys second-largest mobile wallet company. Upasana Taku, founder of MobiKwik. (HT Photo) Just a step away Even the world of glamour isnt untouched by the e-commerce phenomenon. While Deepika Padukone launched her fashion line on Myntra, lesser-known Priya Sachdev has become a serial entrepreneur. Her company, RocknShop, has partnered many designers and tailors to develop premium clothing. E-commerce does not give special advantages unless you are doing women-centric products, she says. Many of Sachdevs suppliers are women, who sell on various ecommerce sites. Priya Sachdev, whose e-commerce sites focus on women-centric products. (HT Photo) Aarti Goel was a housewife before she started selling on e-commerce marketplaces. She started with a single product, and now ships 10,000 orders a day. Her husband has joined her in the business. Earlier I was someones wife or daughter. Now I have my own identity, she says. Aarti Goel, who manages 10,000 orders per day. (HT Photo) In the last two years the number of women among sellers on online marketplaces has grown five-fold to 35%. They mostly sell apparel, art and craft and boutique items. Who knows, some of them may go on to set up their own companies. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Budget airline IndiGo said on Monday it would receive its first A320neo jet in March, three months later than originally planned after manufacturer Airbus said it could not deliver the aircraft on time. IndiGo, Indias biggest airline by market share, had expected its first A320neo in December and nine jets by March. The airline said it would now take delivery of 24 planes in the year to March 2017, less than the 26 originally planned. Airbus has been renegotiating delivery for the A320neo, an upgraded fuel-saving version of its best-selling medium-haul jet, due to what it described as issues with documentation for new Pratt & Whitney engines, industry sources said this month. IndiGo, owned by InterGlobe Aviation Ltd, is one of Airbus biggest customers as it expands its fleet to tap into Indias booming air travel market. It finalised the purchase of 250 A320neo aircraft in August, handing Airbus its largest-ever order by number of planes, and took its total A320-family jet orders to 530. In a statement on Monday, IndiGo said its total fleet size, currently numbering around 100 planes, is expected to increase by about 22.4 percent year-on-year in the 2017 financial year. With the resolution of the delivery of A320neos, IndiGo expects to continue with its strong operating performance, growth in profitability and healthy cash generation, IndiGo President Aditya Ghosh said. For the three months to end-March, IndiGo said exchange rate movements in the Indian rupee against the U.S. dollar would impact its net profit and revenue growth, which it forecasts to rise 6 to 8 percent over last year. Shares in InterGlobe Aviation were down 2.6 percent at 0445 GMT in the BSE Sensex down 0.25 percent. The stock has lost more than a third of its value this year after a rapid rise in the price following its stock market listing in October. After a rollercoaster ride on Monday that saw many ups and downs during the course of finance minister Arun Jaitleys speech, equity markets ended more than 0.5% down as budget proposals didnt excite investors and global markets remained volatile. The benchmark BSE Sensex fluctuated between green and red throughout the day. Opening at 23,238.50, the Sensex hit a high of 23,343.22 after Jaitley started his speech. It hit a low of 22,494.61 on tax levies on securities before closing at 23,002, down 152 points or 0.7%. The Nifty also saw similar trends before ending at 6,987.05, down 43 points or 0.6%. The allocation for recapitalisation of state-run banks was lower than expected and there was no reduction in corporate tax, a higher STT (Securities Transaction Tax) on options and an additional 10% tax on dividends in excess of Rs 10 lakh sent negative signals. State-owned Oil and Natural Gas Corporation was the biggest loser, falling 9.7% after announcement of a 20% cess on domestically produced crude oil, much higher than an expected 10%. Other losers included Maruti Suzuki (down 5%), BHEL (down 4.2%) and tech stocks like Infosys, Wipro and TCS which fell 1-3%. Industry was impressed with the governments prudence. Every budget is a balance between efforts to boost growth and to keep a check on expenditure given the revenues at its disposal, said Ajay Srinivasan, chief executive at Aditya Birla Financial Services. The decision to stick to the fiscal deficit target of 3.5% for the year clearly suggests that the government chose prudence over a large fiscal stimulus. Despite the lower-than-expected Rs 25,000 crore allocation for capitalisation of state-run lenders, banking stocks gained. The fiscal deficit target of 3.5% fueled speculation that the Reserve Bank of India may cut rates again. The banking index closed up 1.1%, with ICICI Bank rising 2.8%, SBI (up 1.4%) and HDFC Bank gaining 1.3%. Some infrastructure stocks such as Jaiprakash Associates, HCC and IRB Infra were also among the gainers following measures for boosting spending to upgrade roads and highways. Investment in roads, railways continues to be the underlying theme given private investment is weak. It is a budget that is positive and progressive with broad-based focus on rural India, infrastructure investment, financial sector reforms and taxing the rich to pass on to the poor. It gives much sense for optimism, both for the common man and the corporate, said Rashesh Shah, chairman, Edelweiss Group. Mixed trends in global markets also added to the nervousness. The result of the budget is that we are little stronger than yesterday, but we are still in troubled waters. This is still an uncertain world and that will continue to weigh on markets, said Leo Puri, managing director of UTI Mutual Fund. The Delhi high court on Monday reserved its verdict on a bail plea from JNU students union president Kanhaiya Kumar in a sedition case even as the police department said it has no video evidence of the accused chanting anti-India slogans. Justice Pratibha Rani is likely to pronounce the order on Wednesday, weeks after Kumar was arrested following a controversial event organised on February 9 at the Delhi-based university to commemorate 2001 Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru. The court observed that men can lie but documents cannot and pulled up Delhi Police for failing to produce any video evidence where the student leader can be seen shouting anti-national slogans. The case has also emerged as the latest tussle between the local government and Centre with Delhi Police, which reports to the Union home ministry, demanding Kumar be kept in jail and the AAP governments counsel opposing this. When your three policemen were present inside the campus in civil dress, why didnt they take cognisance when anti-national slogans were raised? Why did they not record it on video? the judge asked the police department. The prosecution said it isnt just relying on a much-debated video tape that the defence alleges is doctored. Additional solicitor general Tushar Mehta, appearing for Delhi Police, defended Kumars arrest, saying there is evidence, including pamphlets and statements of witnesses, which confirm that the accused and others were shouting anti-India slogans and were holding Gurus posters. Several eyewitness reports were read out during the hearing, sources told HT. The Parliaments budget session is in danger of being overshadowed by rising political bitterness over the polices and central governments handling of the JNU crisis that opposition leaders say is an attempt to muzzle free speech. Kumars counsel senior advocate Kapil Sibal and lawyer Vrinda Grover maintained that their client didnt chant any anti-national slogans and didnt lead any protest. He was simply there to calm the situation down, they said, repeating the student leaders own statement to police. Kumar reached the venue when he heard that two groups were quarrelling, his lawyers said. Delhi governments counsel Rahul Mehra questioned the police investigation, saying several aspects have not been probed properly. I am not a mouthpiece of the investigating agency. I want to raise certain questions on the probe done by the police, he said. Two other JNU students Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya have also been arrested in the case and all three have been questioned by authorities. Khalid and Bhattacharya had surrendered last Tuesday and will remain in police custody till March 1. Delhi Police opposed Kumars bail plea saying his release at this early stage in the investigation could hamper the probe and influence witnesses. The accused might create law and order problems if granted bail, officers told the high court. It (bail) would send a wrong signal to the student community across the country that such anti-India activities can be conducted with immunity, the department said in a status report. Police told the court that Kumar was not cooperating in the interrogation. We have to ensure that they dont suffer any scratches. Thats my only concern, justice Pratibha Rani had said on the previous date of hearing. Attacks on Kumar as well as reporters and teachers by lawyers allegedly linked to the BJP at the citys Patiala House court in February triggered allegations that the ruling party was cracking down on political dissent in the name of patriotism. Delhi Police are making completely wild allegations, Grover told HT. I think it is distressing to see that an investigation is being done to appease their political masters. What police should be investigating is why the video was doctored, who doctored it and who is to gain from it. The Delhi High court on Monday dismissed a petition seeking action against BS Bassi, who has just retired as Delhi police chief, for allegedly influencing the probe in the JNU sedition case, saying it had no time for a publicity stunt. The court cannot be burdened with such applications, said the bench. Why did you file this petition? We are surprised that this is not for public interest but for publicity interest, a bench of chief justice G Rohini and Justice Jayant Nath said as soon as hearing commenced. The bench asked the petitioner the basis of his plea and allegations. Referring to newspaper reports, the counsel appearing for petitioner Satish Pandey said the plea was based on Bassis statement widely published in the media. To this, the bench said, We will not go by the newspaper reports. The law is well settled. If you have any other material except these newspaper reports, you can tell us. During the brief hearing, the counsel said the petition was not for publicity and again referred to newspaper reports. To this, the bench said, We cannot burden this court with these kind of petitions. Except newspaper reports, we have not found any other material. The writ petition is dismissed. The bench said the Supreme Court was seized of the matter and the inquiry was pending. The petition had alleged that Bassis statement that the police would not oppose JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumars bail plea may influence fair and transparent investigation in the matter as well as court proceedings. It had claimed that police was playing at the hands of some political parties under whom Delhi Police was working and said Bassi should be directed to clear his views on the statements given by him on February 16 and 17. In his petition, Pandey had claimed that the investigating officer cannot probe the matter fairly in such a case when undue influential pressure is imposed by a high-ranking official such as the police commissioner. He had sought a direction to prohibit Bassi from influencing the probe. Charges of sedition and criminal conspiracy against the accused are not an individual offence but a public offence and every citizen of the nation is affected, he had claimed. Besides Bassi, the petitioner had made Kanhaiya, the Centre and the Delhi government respondents. Read: Alok Verma assumes charge as new Delhi Police commissioner Tushar Sinha, a Class 12 student of Kendriya Vidyalaya, Danapur, is not worried for March 1. Right now, I am revising what I studied the whole year. That is my only strategy, said Tushar, whose board examination will commence on aforementioned date. Class 10 student of Gyan Niketan, Ambuj Ujjwal, is also stress free for his board examination. I am taking eight to nine hours of sleep every day and study during the remaining hours with adequate breaks. I know that taking stress would only make my mind go blank, he said. The examinations are pretty taxing for students as pressure to perform during the period is extremely high. There were also mixed feelings among students as to which subject to opt and some of which they find a bit tough. Read more | Board exams 2016: For CBSE students, its make or break time I find mathematics the most interesting, as it is all about understanding the basic concept, said Sinha, adding, I am confident that I will perform well. On the other hand, Ujjwal, though not overstressed, finds Chemistry a little too vast to cover. Balancing the equation, learning the periodic table and chemical name of every element are difficult, he said. In CBSE Class 10 and 12 examinations, which will commence from March 1, around 1.58 lakh Class 10 students and 79,984 Class 12 examinees will write paper in the Patna region of the board. It will comprise students from Bihar and Jharkhand. In the Patna region of CBSE Class 10, 1.05 lakh boys and 52,826 girls will take the exam. In Class 12, 52,147 boys and 27,837 girls would be taking the examination from the two states. Number of examinees from the Patna region this year includes 173 differently abled candidates of Class 10 and 93 differently- abled students of Class 12. As per data provided by the CBSE, Class 10 students from 998 schools of the region would appear at 239 examination centres. Class 12 students hailing from 604 schools in the region would appear at 214 examination centres of the two states. Last year, 1.42 lakh Class 10 students and 76,684 Class 12 students had appeared in the board examination from the Patna region. The pass percentage in the region last year was 98.1%, which was fourth highest, among 10 CBSE regions in the country. Its been over ten days since over 12 lakh students across the state started appearing for their HSC examinations, but answer sheets are piling up uncorrected. Members of the group representing junior college teachers, who are boycotting the assessment of papers, are correcting only one paper each daily. With over ten subject papers already over, the protest threatens to delay examination results. Our demands have been the same for quite some years now and year after year, the government makes false promises of fulfilling our demand, only to let us down all over again. Last week on Monday, we met the principal secretary of school education who promised to discuss our matter with the finance minister. However, we are yet to hear back from the government, said Anil Deshmukh, general secretary of the Maharashtra State Federation of Junior College Teachers. Their demands include approval of staff which have been pending for 2012-13 and 2014-15, immediate salary to teachers appointed against 935 sanctioned posts, a stop on declaration of teachers as surplus, unless theres no work at all, among others. Last year, as well as the year before that, the teaching staff delayed assessment of papers. Read more | Maharashtra board exams: Physics puts HSC students in a fix We are looking into their demands and will come out with a solution soon. Students need not worry about the assessment process as this will not delay their results, said an official from the state education department. YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. Belarus is ready to provide support to Armenia in the sector of Health. Armenian Minster of Health Armen Muradyan received Minister of Health of Belarus Vasily Zarko and the delegation headed by him, arrived in Armenia to participate in the international conference entitled New challenges in public health. I am pleased to welcome you to the Ministry of Health. It is very important for me that we can discuss issues related to the healthcare. The healthcare system of Belarus was able to reach benchmark, relevant to international standards, in the post-Soviet space. It managed to reduce maternal and children deaths, Armen Muradyan mentioned, Armenpress reports. Armenian Minsiter of Health introduced the issues of the sector to his Belarusian counterpart and touched upon pharmaceutical companies. The health system of our countries has much in common: common school and roots. It is easy for us to understand each other. Armenia has registered growth in separate sectors of medicine during the last 25 years, Armen Muradyan said. Armenia's Health Minister informed his Belarusian counterpart that our country adopted a new law on medicine, and has reduced the maternal and child mortality in recent years. He also referred to H1N1 cases in our country, particularly stressing that epidemic was not registered in Armenia, although there were hard cases, and work in schools and kindergartens has been suspended for 3 weeks. Health Minister of Belarus stressed it is expected that bilateral cooperation will more deepen. According to him, his countrys universities are also open for collaboration and he is aware that there is a medical university in our country as well. At least 60 students were caught using unfair means, including mobile phones, during the Jharkhand Academic Council (JAC) intermediate and matriculation examinations in the state, JAC chairman Arvind Singh said on Sunday. The examinations began on February 17 for Class 10 and Class 12 st udents at 932 centres for matric exams and 458 for inter mediate, JAC sources said. Many of those caught and expelled till now carried mobile phones and used Whatsapp messenger in the examination hall against the council norms. Singh said, Mobile phones are not allowed inside the exam room and any child using mobile for unfair means will face action. We have asked teachers to ensure that no child enters the rooms with mobile. On Saturday, an intermediate student at the Nirmala College centre was expelled after being caught for his misconduct. He was using mobile phone to cheat in the examination. In another such case, a boy was handed over to the authorities at Marwari School for allegedly copying answers using chits. Close to 4.75 lakh students are appearing in the matriculation examination while 3.21 lakh are taking the intermediate exams in the state this year. A similar case of copying answers from mobiles was reported in Godda district where the exam centre of the student was changed after being caught. Read more: 515 Patna students expelled for cheating, govt needs parents help Secretary of school education and literacy department Aradhna Patnaik said that the government had put in place a strict system to check copying during the examination. We have issued strict guidelines to the DCs and SPs of all the districts to ensure proper security and checking during exams. The district administration is the responsible authority for ensuring a smooth conduct of examinations, said Patnaik. Each centre has a control room where examination authorities remain present and take action against examination rule violators at specific inputs. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Leonardo DiCaprio won his long-awaited first Oscar for revenge epic The Revenant on Monday, but journalism drama Spotlight took best picture in a surprising end to Hollywoods glittering awards season. Read: Leonardo DiCaprio wins but Spotlights on Priyanka Chopra The night was overshadowed by a simmering race row, addressed head-on by black host Chris Rock, who delivered a series of caustic jokes targeting the Academys overwhelmingly white male membership. As well as DiCaprios best actor award, The Revenant picked up the statuettes for best director for Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu -- his second in a row -- as well as for best cinematography. But Spotlight, a searing study of The Boston Globes investigation into child sex abuse in the Catholic Church, unexpectedly grabbed best picture honours at the 88th Academy Awards. This film gave a voice to survivors. And this Oscar amplifies that voice, which we hope will become a choir that will resonate all the way to the Vatican, co-producer Michael Sugar told the audience at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. Pope Francis, its time to protect the children and restore the faith, he said. Blye Pagon Faust speaks as the production team and cast members of Spotlight accept the award for Best Picture on stage at the 88th Oscars. (AFP) A defeat for Creed star and Tinseltown darling Sylvester Stallone was the other big surprise of the night, as he was snubbed for best supporting actor, with the trophy going against the odds to Britains Mark Rylance for Bridge of Spies. Read: The $200,000 Oscars goody bag has a trip to Israel and also sex toys George Millers stark action epic Mad Max: Fury Road was the big winner in the technical categories, taking home Oscars for best costumes, production design, make-up, film editing, sound editing and sound mixing. Leos night DiCaprios success for his grueling star turn as 19th century fur trapper Hugh Glass came 22 years after his first of four unsuccessful acting nominations. For the 41-year-old actor, the fifth time was a charm. He thanked a long list of figures who have helped him in his career, including filmmaker Martin Scorsese, before speaking on his passion -- climate change. Climate change is real. It is happening right now. It is the most urgent threat facing our entire species and we need to work together and stop procrastinating, DiCaprio said to applause. First-time nominee Brie Larson picked up a widely predicted best actress statuette, having dominated the awards season with her performance as a kidnapped mother in Room. But it was not all celebration, as a row over the lack of ethnic minority acting hopefuls overshadowed Hollywoods biggest night. Read: Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet walk in together at the Oscars Well, Im here at the Academy Awards -- otherwise known as the white Peoples Choice awards. You realize if they nominated hosts, I wouldnt even get this job, joked Rock, 51, who continued with a series of jibes at the Academy throughout the night. For the second year running, all 20 nominees in the main acting categories were white, and an angry social media backlash under the hashtag #OscarsSoWhite has grabbed the awards season headlines. Rock, who hosted despite calls for him to join a boycott, unleashed a fierce monologue -- one he apparently rewrote in the wake of the scandal to hold the Academys 6,000-plus voting members, overwhelmingly white men, to account. Actor-comedian Chris Rock nailed the opening monologue at the 88th Academy Awards with a skillful mix of social commentary and humour about racism in Hollywood, an issue that has dominated debates this awards season. Former radio DJ Inarritu, just the third filmmaker to win back-to-back Academy Awards for best director, picked up the theme as he hailed his latest Oscar as a tribute to diversity. There is a line in the film that says, They dont listen to you when they see the color of your skin, Inarritu said. See: Low necklines and skin-baring gowns, all the lust-worthy Oscars 2016 red carpet looks So what a great opportunity to our generation to really liberate ourselves from all prejudice and, you know, this way of thinking and make sure for once and forever that the colour of skin becomes as irrelevant as the length of our hair. Solidarity The first acting award of the night went to Swedens Alicia Vikander, who dazzled on the red carpet in a strapless pale yellow Louis Vuitton gown, for her supporting role in transgender love story The Danish Girl. This is insane, a visibly moved Vikander said, hailing her co-star Eddie Redmayne: Thank you for being the best acting partner. I could have never done it without you. You raised my game. Best supporting actor Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies, Best actress Brie Larson, Room, best actor Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant, and best supporting actress Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl, pose during the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood. (REUTERS) It was a huge night for Spotlight director Tom McCarthy, who also picked up the Oscar for best original screenplay. Adam McKay and Charles Randolph took the adapted screenplay Oscar for financial crisis satire The Big Short -- another best picture contender. Mexicos Emmanuel Lubezki made history with his third consecutive Oscar for cinematography, for his dramatic work on The Revenant. See: Priyanka Chopras Oscars 2016 jewels worth $8 million! One of the moments of the night came when Lady Gaga led the Oscars in a rally against campus sexual assault, bringing together rape survivors who joined arms in solidarity. The pop star, who recently has spoken out about being raped as a teenager, was introduced by Vice President Joe Biden, who personally took part in Hollywoods biggest night to lend his voice to the cause. Lady Gaga holds hands with survivors of sexual abuse after singing her Oscar-nominated song Til It Happens to You at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California February 28, 2016. (REUTERS) Gaga, singing to a piano and occasionally stretching her arms out with emotion, performed Till It Happens To You which was nominated for the Oscar for best original song for The Hunting Ground,a documentary about rape on campus. Read: Singer Sam Smith dedicates Oscar to LGBT community Here are all the winners from the 88th Academy Awards: * Best Picture: Spotlight * Direction: The Revenant, Alejandro G. Inarritu * Actor: Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant * Actress: Brie Larson, Room * Supporting Actor: Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies * Supporting Actress: Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl * Adapted Screenplay: The Big Short, Charles Randolph and Adam McKay * Original Screenplay: Spotlight, Josh Singer and Tom McCarthy * Cinematography: The Revenant, Emmanuel Lubezki * Production Design: Mad Max: Fury Road, Colin Gibson and Lisa Thompson (set decoration) * Film Editing: Mad Max: Fury Road, Margaret Sixel * Visual Effects: Ex Machina, Andrew Whitehurst, Paul Norris, Mark Ardington and Sara Bennett * Costume Design: Mad Max: Fury Road, Jenny Beavan * Makeup: Mad Max: Fury Road, Lesley Vanderwalt, Elka Wardega and Damian Martin * Sound Mixing: Mad Max: Fury Road, Chris Jenkins, Gregg Rudloff and Ben Osmo * Score: The Hateful Eight, Ennio Morricone * Song: Writings on the Wall, from Spectre, Jimmy Napes and Sam Smith * Foreign Language Film: Son of Saul (Hungary) * Animated Feature: Inside Out * Documentary Feature: Amy * Animated Short: Bear Story * Documentary Short: A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness * Live Action Short: Stutterer For our special Oscar coverage, click here. For all about Oscar red carpet, click here. Follow @htshowbiz for more. Priyanka Chopra walked the Oscars 2016 red carpet on Monday morning, full of confidence and grace in a Zuhair Murad couture dress. The actress said she felt like a princess on chariot as she walked the giant Academy Awards red carpet. Priyanka, who will soon start shooting for her big Hollywood film debut Baywatch, will be presenting an Oscar later in the night. She wore diamond earrings and a no-fuss, stylish hairdo with the dress. When asked by the presenters what it took to walk the red carpet, the actress replied, S-position. She then went on to give tips on how to walk the red carpet to a suitably impressed presenter. Priyanka Chopra poses as she arrives at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood. (REUTERS) She will join Hollywood stars like Ryan Gosling, Steve Carell, Jared Leto, Julianne Moore, Margot Robbie, Jason Segel, Kerry Washington and Reese Witherspoon in the presenters circuit. Read: Live coverage of Oscars 2016 red carpet The 33-year-old actress had earlier shared a picture from inside the Dolby Theatre in which she is seen practising on stage along with the Oscars production team. I dream in gold... #Oscars rehearsals, she posted on Instagram along with her photo in which she is seen wearing a blue shirt teamed with a pair of ripped denims. I dream in gold... #Oscars rehearsals.. Now time for some much needed TLC! Spaaaaa. A photo posted by Priyanka Chopra (@priyankachopra) on Feb 27, 2016 at 2:25pm PST Priyanka further gave a sneak-peek of the rehearsals with another picture of the hall, which featured pictures of other Oscar attendees like Jennifer Lawrence, Julianne Moore among others pasted on the chairs. View from the stage! Rehearsals !! #Oscars good luck @chrisrock tomorrow will be so fun! #goodluckChris, the Quantico star wrote. View from the stage! Rehearsals !! #Oscars good luck @chrisrock tomorrow will be so fun! #goodluckChris A photo posted by Priyanka Chopra (@priyankachopra) on Feb 27, 2016 at 2:20pm PST The 88th Academy Awards ceremony will dole out awards in 24 categories. Watch | Priyanka Chopra stuns Oscars 2016 red carpet Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy made history on Sunday by becoming the first Pakistani to win two Oscars when she bagged the award in the short documentary category for her film on honour killings. The filmmaker was recognised for A Girl In The River, which follows the life of 19-year-old Saba Qaiser, who survived after she was shot in the face by her father and uncle and thrown into a river in Punjab province because she ran away to marry the man she loved. Wearing a floor-length black coat by designer Sana Safinaz over a matching dress, she earlier walked the red carpet with her mother and the team from SOC Films. This is what happens when determined women get together, she said as she accepted the golden statuette. She praised all the brave men out there, like my father and my husband, who push women to go to school and work and who want a more just society for women. Read: Pak PM congratulates Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy for Oscar nod She also thanked Qaiser, the girl in my film who remarkably survived honour killing and shared her story. The filmmaker took to Facebook to announce: Pakistan, we just won our 2nd Oscar!! Talking to Pakistani media on Monday, Obaid-Chinoy said the Oscar will go a long way in addressing the issue of honour killings in Pakistan. She said she would take Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif up on his promise of government action to stop the killing of men and women in the name of honour. Watch the trailer of A Girl In The River here: TRAILER - A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness from Sharmeen Obaid Films on Vimeo. After meeting Obaid-Chinoy recently in Islamabad, Sharif had vowed to rid Pakistan of this evil by bringing in appropriate legislation. Obaid-Chinoy won her first Academy Award in 2012 in the same category for Saving Face, which was about a British-Pakistani plastic surgeon who treats victims of acid attacks. It is estimated that more than 1,000 women die as a result of honour killings in Pakistan every year. Despite the passage of a bill in 2015 that aimed at closing loopholes in the law, the number of killings increased. Aurat Foundation, a leading womens rights group, says that while honour killings have no official sanction, they are treated differently by police and authorities. Read: New Pakistani film puts spotlight on honour killings Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy won her first Academy Award in 2012 in the same category for Saving Face, which was about a British-Pakistani plastic surgeon who treats victims of acid attacks. (AFP) Many of the decisions to kill women are taken by a tribal council of elders and is implemented with their sanction, says a report of the foundation. But police almost never charge these elders for being part of the crime. Women have been attacked and killed on suspicion of infidelity. There have been instances of women being killed after they were seen without appropriate clothing in public. Full list of Oscar 2016 winners: From Spotlight to Leonardo DiCaprio In other instances, women were murdered by male relatives when someone passed a comment about them. These misplaced notions of honour continue to survive in our society particularly in rural areas, said Saad Zuberi, who works with Obaid-Chinoy. In 2015, Pakistans Senate or upper house of parliament passed the Anti-Rape Laws (Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill and the Anti-Honour Killings Laws (Criminal Laws Amendment) Bill, both moved by Pakistan Peoples Party lawmaker Syeda Sughra Imam. Imam said honour killings are common throughout the country but official figures do not include unreported cases or, indeed, the number of men who are often killed alongside women in the name of honour. Communal tension prevailed in the city on Monday, with a BJP politician throwing an open challenge to the Muslim community over the murder of a Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) leader last week. Instead of these random incidents, why dont they clash with us once and for all to settle the matter? thundered Fatehpur Sikri MP Choudhary Babulal, indicating that the issue was far from resolved. Arun Mahaur, vice president of Agras VHP unit, was shot dead in the communally sensitive Mantola locality on February 25. Also keeping police and administrative officials on their toes were the communally charged speeches allegedly delivered at a meeting held at Jaipur House by various saffron organisations including the Bajrang Dal, VHP and the BJP on Sunday to condole Mahaurs death. Though BJP MP and Union minister Ram Shankar Katheria was present at the event, he denied making any provocative statement himself. We didnt hold the programme, and there were angry leaders from various outfits. I did not speak against the minority community I only demanded that the killers of Arun Mahaur be hanged, he told HT. Firebrand leader Sadhvi Prachi also allegedly joined the other Hindu leaders in vowing to avenge Mahaurs killing. Muslim leaders, however, responded with restraint. We know that parties like the BJP are planning incidents of largescale violence before the 2017 assembly elections, and this is all part of an orchestrated effort, alleged Amir Ahmed, a lawyer. They succeeded in Muzaffarnagar, and now they want a repeat performance here. Muslims should maintain peace to foil their designs, he added. Haji Jamilluddin Qureshi, a Muslim leader, echoed Ahmeds thoughts. Sensible Hindus wouldnt agree with the language used against Muslims during the condolence meet at Jaipur House, he said. He, however, cautioned Hindu leaders against taking Muslims for granted. Naved Athar Siddiqui, another resident, said that though both Hindus and Muslims wanted to co-exist in harmony, a handful of extremists were bent on stoking communal passions. Three days after the release of Hansal Mehta directed Aligarh, the movie is yet to see the light of the day in Aligarh city. Contradicting rumours that the film is banned, district magistrate Dr Balkar Singh said, The movie is not banned in Aligarh. It is up to movie hall owners to screen the film. The administration has nothing to do with its release. Sudhir Sisodia, manager, Minakshi cinema hall said, The public is very excited about the movie. So we have requested the distributor to release the film. The raging issues of LGBT and media freedom have triggered a debate and slowed down the release of the movie, which is based on the gay relations of Prof Shrinivas Ramchandra Siras of the Aligarh Muslim University (AMU). Though some LGBT organisations have termed the movie a bold step towards liberalisation, some have also questioned the role of media in encroaching upon privacy. Nitin Raghvan, president of Gay Movement, said, The film is a daring attempt to get recognised gay relations. Prof Siras has became an icon of gay movement. Some intellectuals feel that the controversy over the movie has been raised unnecessarily. Social analyst N Jamal Ansari said, Creativity should not be bound, banned or subjected to interference. Opposition to the film is just hypocrisy. Amid the raging debate, some intellectuals have been demanding a cap on the limits of media. They want the government to enact a fresh law to save the privacy of citizens. Advocate Pravin Gautam said, The film depicts media encroachment in personal life of a citizen which is against Constitutional provisions. A law should be enacted to stop the same. However, both Hindu and Muslim organisations are of the view that the film should not be released at all. Dr Jasim Mohammad, secretary, forum for Muslim Studies and Analysis said, We are not demanding any ban on the film. We object to the title of the movie as it sends out a wrong message about the city and AMU. Bharatiya Janata Party chief Amit Shah will announce his new team before the partys conclave in New Delhi on March 19-20. Having got a second chance on January 24 to lead the party for a full three-year term Shah is discussing his team with Prime Minister Narendra Modi and RSS representatives in the BJP. The team of national office bearers includes a maximum of 13 vice president, nine general secretaries and 15 deputy general secretaries. An announcement of the team is expected by the second week of March. New faces will be inducted, a source told HT. Shah is expected to strike the missing regional balance in his next team. Currently, the BJP has Ram Madhav, Bhupendra Yadav, Kailash Vijayvargiya, P Muralidhar Rao, Saroj Pandey, Arun Singh and Anil Jain as general secretaries. Two of t hem could be dropped, said a party source privy to the deliberation. A Scheduled Caste leader could also be inducted as general secretary. This community does not have representation in the current team. Except for Pande ya nd Vijayavargiya, none of the general secretaries have contested a direct election. Yadav is a member of the Rajya Sabha. A couple of leaders from states with a certain mass base are also expected to find place. Former Karnataka deputy CM R Ashok and former Jharkhand CM Arjun Munda are probables for getting a national assignment. BJPs youth wing, currently led by three-time Lok Sabha MP Anurag Thakur, is likely to get a new head. Given the assignment in 2010, 41-year-old Thakur is the longest serving chief of the Yuva Morcha and is tipped for a promotion within the organisation. Sources claimed that Shah may leave some posts vacant for future requirements that may arise following an impending reshuffle of the cabinet after the Parliaments Budget session. While Union minister Sarbananda Sonowal has already been sent to Assam as president of the state BJP, junior railway minister Manoj Sinha is in contention to head the party in Uttar Pradesh. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday his car was attacked in Punjabs Ludhiana with sticks and stones, causing damage to the vehicle. The Aam Aadmi Party leader was not injured in the attack. Badals n congress nervous? They cant break my spirits (sic), Kejriwal tweeted after the incident. A photo retweeted by the AAPs official handle showed the broken windscreen of Kejriwals car and police present at the scene. The Delhi chief minister earlier visited Boha village in Ludhiana, where two Dalit youth were killed in an alleged fake encounter in 2014. Terror of Badals is all set to end after one year, he said to the families of the two. The attack took place as Kejriwal exited a venue where he interacted with industrialists around 12.20pm. A group of Sikh protestors threw stones at his car. Kejriwal is in Punjab to campaign for the assembly elections scheduled to be held in 2017. The attackers came within an inch of grievously injuring Kejriwal. It was by only Gods grace that he escaped unhurt. In a well orchestrated attack the goons sent by Badals attacked Kejriwals car with stones & rods as police stood by, (sic) AAP leader Ashish Khetan tweeted. The AAP gave no further details. It was not immediately clear if Kejriwal, who usually sits to the left of the driver, continued with his journey or not. India on Monday termed as unfortunate a letter written by 34 US lawmakers to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, saying their concern over alleged attack on religious freedom in India was based on a few incidents. External affairs ministry spokesperson Vikas Swarup also said if there are any such incidents of attack of minorities, which he called aberrations, they will be dealt with by internal processes which include an independent judiciary. It is unfortunate that these members of Congress while applauding India as a pluralistic society with a longstanding commitment to inclusion and tolerance have chosen to focus on just a few incidents, he said. Opposition parties and activists accuse the BJP-led government at the Centre of failing to rein in fringe organisations involved in attacking religious minority communities and their institutions. Swarup said India is proud of its status as the worlds largest democracy and pointed out that the Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all its citizens, including minority communities. Aberrations, if any, are dealt with by our internal processes which include our independent judiciary, autonomous National Human Rights Commission, vigilant media, and vibrant civil society, he said. In their letter dated February 25, the US lawmakers urged Modi to take immediate steps to protect their fundamental rights and bring the perpetrators to justice. We urge your government to take immediate steps to ensure that the fundamental rights of religious minorities are protected and that the perpetrators of violence are held to account, said the lawmakers, including eight Senators. Of particular concern is the treatment of Indias Christian, Muslim and Sikh communities. Swarup also said that the government is fully committed to the Constitutional principles which underpin the nation of 1.25 billion people as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society. In the foothills of the Aravallis 60 kilometres south-west of Gurgaon, sleepy town of Mewat has the knack for hogging the headlines for all the wrong reasons. Its claim to fame, apart from the Islamic preachers (Tablighi Jamaat), is the notorious Mewati gangs criminals who have been giving police from neighbouring areas, including the national capital region (NCR), sleepless nights. Before the arrest of suspected al Qaeda operative Abdul Sami from Mewat in January this year, in July 2014 Delhi Police claimed to have arrested a suspected top Lashkar-e-Taiba operative and Mewat resident Abdul Subhan for alleged involvement in influencing youths. A few months ago, Mohammad Shahid and Qari Rashid, both local Imams and residents of Mewat, were also arrested for alleged terror links. Though none of these three have been convicted so far, concern over Mewats terror connection was raised. Notorious Mewati Gangs Mewats crime rate is the lowest in Haryana but nearly 100 gangs are active in the areas bordering the district. Thirty are big gangs whose livelihood depends just on criminal activities. Earlier they used to be simple cattle catchers or bike thieves. Now, they have become more organised and indulge not only in robbing trucks on the highways, but also demand ransom from the families after kidnapping the drivers, said Rajinder Singh, assistant commissioner of police (ACP), operations, (South District) who dealt with Mewati gangs for years. In some cases, the gang members negotiate with victims after stealing vehicles that they offer to return on half the original cost, he said. Delhi Police have a list of 150 criminals hailing from this town which they shared with the police in Mewat. The police of Alwar in Rajasthan have also provided names of 95 active Mewati dacoits. Police have arrested more than 600 proclaimed offenders in the last two months. Clad in jeans and T-shirts, perhaps to hide their rural identity, and armed with stones and firearms, the confident criminals aged mostly between 16-21 years - can break any police intercept in their way. At district jail in Bhondsi near Gurgaon, 500 out of 2100 inmates are from Mewat. The number is almost the same in the district jail in neighbouring Faridabad. If some police party stops them, they would attack it with stones and firearms, said Virender Jain, station house officer, Vasant Kunj (South) who was instrumental in arresting an accused in the 2010 Dhaula Kuan gangrape case from Mewat. Given the violent means the gangs use, cops are extra careful. Some cops fear intercepting them and those who do, face repercussions. They become very violent if a police party intercepts them. At times, cops in some remote areas had to seek cover for safe passage, ACP, Rajinder Singh explained. Another reason for their level of impunity is they use deserted roads termed chor raaste by police. Singh and Jain were investigation officers in Dhaula Kuan gang-rape case in 2010. A crackdown on gangs followed. With help from intelligence agencies from last September to November, police blacklisted more than 50 people who came from various countries to Mewat as part of Tablighi Jamaat the global Islamic movement that originated from Mewats Jamia Arabia Moin-Ul-Islam madrasa in 1927 and now has a presence in over 150 countries. Socio-economic factors Spread over three assembly constituencies - Nuh, Firozpur Jhirka and Punhana on Delhi-Alwar road, Mewat is 75% Muslim most of them farmers. Today, Mewat depicts a perfect picture of government negligence, locals say. A recent government survey revealed Mewat, with a population of 10 lakh, is the least-developed district of Haryana. In standard of living, education and health, the district lags way behind others in Haryana. With a literacy rate of 56.1%, Mewat is the least-literate district. Of the 1,62,000 students registered in primary schools, 48,000 reached class 8 and only 12,000 passed class 10 last year. Part of the problem with Mewat is that there are no proper schools. No teacher wants to go to Mewat. There are not more than 3000 teachers in the district, said Dr Ram Kishan who was instrumental in sanctioning Mewats first womens college at Salaheri, Nuh. In 2012, the first year of the college, three girls enrolled which has now increased to 192. Four years down the line, this college remains in a temporary building. Health services are no better. A district with 44,000 deliveries per year, has no gynaecologist. The last doctor posted at the Al Afia Citizens hospital was Dr Poonam Lata who resigned last year. For farmers, rain is the only source of water and hence there is only one crop per year. Worse, the ground water is saline and there are no canals. Very few farmers have tube-wells. In absence of livelihood avenues, youth often indulge in petty crimes such as auto lifting. There are incidents of looting trucks and extorting money. Due to poverty and lack of employment avenues, people of Mewat are inclined towards crime, said Choudhary Zakir Hussain, the Indian National Lok Dal MLA of Nuh. Friday prayers are offered at Mewats Jama Masjid, on Feb 5. (Abhinav Saha/Hindustan Times) The Haryana State Industrial and Infrastructure Development Corporation Ltd started setting up industrial units at Roz ka Meo, but that did not fetch results either. Here also not many industries want to come because of negative perception about Mewat, said Dr Kishan who was posted as the principal of Mewat college for two years. Every government that came to power in Haryana has neglected the region, is the common grudge among people. All the three elected MLAs of Nuh, Firozpur Jhirka and Punhana, are Muslims. Moreover, two of the MLAs come from the family that has been in power for three generations. Both Congress and BJP have left Mewat neglected. This region is craving for development. Or else people here will be misguided, says 70-year-old Choudhary Shakrullah Khan Sense of alienation Given the disenchantment against the government over keeping the Meos as the locals are known-backward deliberately, coupled with a campaign by orthodox international Islamic preachers in the name of Tablighi Jamaat, the liberal Muslims of the region can be swayed by people with vested interests, many allege. The palpable fear of being framed in false terror cases furthers the sense of alienation among young people who havent been exposed to the terrorist ideologies yet, apparently for want of internet and television access. They frame people in false terror cases and next day the accused becomes the convicted, said Iqraar Ahmad, a class 10th student at Choudhary Yaseen High School, expressing hope in God who will definitely come to the rescue of Muslims in the crisis. Interactions with Iqraar and some other young people like him indicate Mewatis may not be heading towards extremism, but this is a topic of concern. Mewat is unnecessarily being maligned by vested interests as if we produce terrorists. We have resisted Mughals, British and everyone who tried to rule us. What else should prove our love for the land? says Sohrab Khan of Khedi Kankar village in Nuh. Muslims of the region are as vocal about their allegiance to the country as they are critical of extremist ideologies such as the Islamic State and al Qaeda. At the Nuh seminary, disenchanted cleric Mohamamd Shakir talks about how people of the area have been living in harmony for all these years and how, according to him, some bahari taaqate (foreign agencies) were hell bent on creating unrest in the region. He says he is confident that Muslims and Islam are safe in India as long as Narendra Modi continues to be the Prime Minister. We do not know what ISIS is and who are the people affiliated to al Qaeda. But, unfortunately, we are still linked with them. We love this country. We are not anti nationals. We have nothing to do with Pakistan, he quips. (With Inputs from Sohil Sehran) The bottom line is, its an issue of livelihood: B Satheesh Balan, SSP B Satheesh Balan, a 2004-batch IPS officer, volunteered for a posting in Mewat. Ten months later, Balan tells HTs Gulam Jeelani the perception about Mewat being a town of criminals is misplaced. Whats your understanding of Mewat? Mewat should have been in the news for backwardness and not crime. In the past 67 years, there has not been a single riot here and even during minor riots, there was no casualty. Yes there are criminals in Mewat, but they are in other districts as well. Considering the level of literacy and backwardness, we see less crime here compared to other districts of Haryana. They may not be indulging in crimes in Mewat, but NCR police is having a tough time in keeping a tab on Mewati gangs. I dont believe in maligning people based on the region. To me, using the words Mewati gangs is stereotyping. People of Mewat indulge in crimes because of a lack of livelihood opportunities. And then cow slaughtering and mining which ran their kitchen have been banned. They are involved in crime against property, particularly vehicle thefts. Otherwise they are peaceful people. Has the police of NCR been in touch with you over the issue? Not as much as they should have. I just got a call from DCP, Delhi and we caught hold of a suspected al Qaeda man from Mewat last month. They (Delhi Police) need to be more cooperative. There is a perception Mewati criminals turn violent when intercepted? Yes they are short-tempered. They have illicit weapons and can even attack police parties. Though it doesnt justify the crime, we should keep in mind they are extremely backward and neglected. We need to treat them differently. If we do so, they are the best authority-fearing people. What is the solution then? As a state we need to look into the motive of crime or the factors that drive them into it. If we dont do that these people are bound to be attracted towards crime. The bottom line is it is an issue of livelihood. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. Holly liturgy was served in Beiruts St. Nshan Armenian Orthodox Church on February 28 and then a requiem was served in memory of the victims of the Sumgait massacres on February 27-29, 1988. The event was attended by leaders of Armenian political parties and national structures, Armenian embassys staff in Lebanon, the Nagorno Karabakh representative in the Middle East, members of Lebanese Centennial Central Body for the commemoration of the 100th Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and media. Armenpress was informed from the Press, Information and Public Relations Department of the Armenian MFA that Armenian Ambassador to Lebanon Ashot Kocharian mentioned the massacres against Armenians 28 years ago in Sumgait was the first example of ethnic cleansing in the territory of Soviet Union. The Ambassador stressed that the people of Nagorno-Karabakh had to defend their right to live during the imposed war. The ambassador said that the Azerbaijani authorities currently continue their aggressive, destructive policy and anti-Armenian propaganda through war rhetoric, provocations on the border, ceasefire violations and falsification of historical facts. Then wreaths were placed in front of the cross stone in memory of the victims of Sumgait, in the churchyard of St. Nshan Armenian Orthodox Church. The same day a requiem, in memory of Sumgait pogrom victims, was served in Lebanons all Armenian churches. Manipurs human rights activist Irom Chanu Sharmila resumed her hunger strike in protest against the Armed Forces Special Powers Act (Afpsa) after a magistrate court ordered her release from judicial custody on Monday. Sharmila has been on a fast-unto-death for the past 15 years, demanding the repealing of Afspa. She was arrested under Section 309 of the Indian Penal Code on charges of attempt to commit suicide. Held at a prison hospital, she was force-fed through the nose several times a day. Referred to as the Iron Lady of Manipur, Sharmila continued her often interrupted hunger strike at Saheed Minar, accompanied by women activists of Sharmila Kanba Lup (Save Sharmila Committee). The 43-year-old began her non-violent protest in November 2000 after 10 people were killed by troops of the Assam Rifles near a bus stop at Malom, in the outskirt of Imphal. The Afspa 1958, which covers large parts of northeastern India and Kashmir, gives security forces sweeping powers to search and shoot on sight, and is seen by critics as a cover for human rights abuses. Speaking to media at the court complex in Imphal, Sharmila said, Now I will continue my agitation at Saheed Minar till my goal is achieved. I still have the confidence that truth will prevail one day. On August 19 2014, a Sessions court in Imphal had ordered her release, dismissing the prosecutions charge that she was attempting to commit suicide. But Sharmila was re-arrested few days later on the grounds of securing her life. Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan, whose remarks on intolerance had kicked up a political storm last year, on Sunday said freedom of speech also means the right to be silent. He was speaking at the trailer launch of his upcoming movie Fan in Mumbai. When asked about his experience after his remarks on intolerance, Shah Rukh said, When I would watch Mumbai Indians match against KKR, the only one appeal I would make is Out...I am not getting into this. Freedom of speech means the right to keep silent also. I am very silent about this. On his birthday in November last year, Shah Rukh Khan sparked a debate when he said during an interview that there was extreme intolerance in India. Intolerance religiouslynot being secular in this country is the worst crime you can do as a patriot, he said. He was the first Bollywood actor to join the ongoing debate on intolerance in the country. Read | Not being secular is the worst crime as patriot: Shah Rukh Khan However, the actor retracted his statements just a few days later. I talk about something and it is misconstrued, and I get into trouble. Thats a nuisance. Like that thing which blew up recently I never said India is intolerant. When I was asked about it, I said I wouldnt like talking about it, but when they insisted, I had just said that the youth should concentrate on making this a secular, progressive country, he told Mid Day. His film Dilwale faced demonstrations in parts of the country. Earlier this month, Vishwa Hindu Parishad (VHP) members protested against the shooting of Shah Rukh Khans upcoming film Raees in Bhuj, Gujarat, for his earlier remarks on intolerance. Read | VHP protests shooting of Shah Rukh Khans Raees in Bhuj over intolerance (With inputs from PTI) The debate over nationalism may continue to dominate Parliaments proceedings this week, even after both Houses had completed discussions on the issue. The BJP came out in support of Union human resource development minister Smriti Irani after the Congress, Left and the JD(U) decided to push notice of breach of privilege against her for allegedly misleading the House in her reply on the debate over the issue of students of University of Hyderabad and JNU. BJP spokesperson MJ Akbar slammed the Congress on Sunday, saying, The Congress says the HRD minister had insinuated that Rohith Vemula is not a Dalit, and sought a privilege motion. Do we call a privilege motion on the basis of insinuation or on the basis of what the minister has said? Had there been motion on the basis of insinuation, no Congress leader would have ever dared to enter Parliament. Even as the Congress alleged that Irani misled the House and pointed to the statement of Vemulas family in its defence, the BJP leader maintained that the ministers statement was based on official and police accounts. Read | Im no child, you arent a motherly minister: JNU student to Smriti In a bid to turn the tables on the Congress, Akbar said, The Congress refuses to accept that the proctorial board and the executive council, which took the decisions on the students, were full of nominees of the UPA government. So, recommendations of the proctorial board and the decision of the executive council were taken by people who were appointed by the Congress. However, unfazed by the BJPs defence, Congress leaders maintained that Vemulas suicide and the JNU row were far from over in Parliament. A section of the Congress even hinted that it may not negotiate the passage of the key bills with the BJP before the raging controversy dies down. They (the BJP) will have to chew the pill (of consequences of the students issue.) Then we may talk about the bills, quipped a senior Congress leader. The BJP, however, continued to target Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi over the JNU and University of Hyderabad row. Opposition leaders are so irresponsible that they make a fresh statement every day and disappear. Rahul Gandhi can hide from Parliament, but not from people, said Akbar. Read | Smriti Irani under fire for lying in Dalit students suicide case Bihar chief minister Nitish Kumar and RJD chief Lalu Prasad on Sunday came down heavily on the BJP, accusing it of hatching a conspiracy to scrap reservations and break the nation by playing divisive politics. The two leaders were attending a function to mark the 639th birth anniversary of Sant Shiromani Ravidas, organized by Ravidas Chetna Manch at Rabindra Bhawan. The CM announced that from next year there would be a government holiday to mark the birth anniversary of the social reformer of the 15th century, who spread the message of social reforms through his poems and writings. The BJP only has the agenda of creating divisions in the society by influencing people in the name of caste and religion to garner votes, said the chief minister. He also called the BJPs bid to celebrate birth anniversaries of Dr B R Ambedhkar and Ravidas as just mere formalities to attract weaker sections to the partys fold. Kumar also came down heavily on the BJP led NDA government at the centre for sedition charges against JNU student leader Kanhaiya Kumar, claiming this was done on the basis of doctored evidence. We are demanding that concrete proof should be furnished to substantiate the charges against Kumar. But the central government is silent on this issues, Nitish said, even as he took potshots at HRD minister Smriti Irani (without naming her) for putting wrong information on the suicide of Dalit student Rohit Vemula, in parliament. Vemula was compelled to take the extreme step, he said, implying to the accusations that the scholar was victimized by the University and the union HRD ministry appeared to be true. In his speech, the RJD chief hit out at the BJP for trying to mislead people by creating a perception that Lalu would not allow the government to run and casting doubts on whether the grand alliance government would complete its full tenure. They are trying to create a wrong perception among people. But I and Nitish are working together cautiously this time. The BJP had got a chance to come to power in 2014 Lok Sabha poll because of our disunity at that time, he said. The RJD chief also emphasized that backward classes had got empowered only after 1990 when he came to power and reiterated his demand for publication of the caste data as per the socio-economic caste census. Referring to the sedition charge on Kanhaiya, Lalu said the JNU student leader had been labelled as anti national as he had raised issues of the poor and downtrodden. An arch rival of the BJP, Lalu also accused the saffron outfit of having bias against weaker sections. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Bombay high court on Monday asked Maharashtra government to expedite further investigations by the state CID into the murder of rationalist Govind Pansare. A division bench of justices Ranjit More and VL Achilya has been hearing petitions seeking probe by independent agencies into the murders of Pansare and another rationalist Narendra Dabholkar. The CBI is probing the role of right wing organisation Sanatan Sanstha in the murder of Dabholkar while the state CID is investigating the killing of Pansare. There appears to be a good coordination between the investigating agencies probing the murder of Pansare and rationalist Narendra Dabholkar, the bench observed today while asking the authorities to speed up probe in Pansare murder case. Arguing on behalf of Pansares family, lawyer Abhay Nevgi informed the court that charges are likely to be framed against the accused, Sameer Gaikwad, on March 8. Gaikwad, an activist of right-wing outfit Sanatan Sanstha, was arrested in September last year in connection with the murder of Pansare. Maharashtra CID had earlier told the court it had filed charge sheet against Gaikwad, the only arrested accused in the Pansare murder case, and further probe was underway as other accused were yet to be arrested. The high court judges asked how can charges be framed if investigations are still going on. The bench asked the prosecution to make an application in the trial court praying to defer the framing of charges, as investigations were in progress. Earlier, dissatisfied by the probe, the family of Pansare had moved the high court following which it had ordered a CID investigation into the murder. The high court is also hearing another petition filed by Dabholkars family and had earlier ordered a CBI probe into the rationalists killing. Both the petitions are being heard jointly by the bench. The CBI had earlier this month informed the high court it was considering to take a third opinion on the weapon used in the murders of rationalists Narendra Dabholkar, MM Kalburgi and Pansare, after Bengaluru and Mumbai forensic labs differed on the issue. While the Bengaluru-based forensic science laboratory (FSL) was of the opinion that different weapons were used in the murders, the Kalina FSL in Mumbai said that the weapon used in all the three cases were the same. Advocate Nevgi, appearing for the kin of both Dabholkar and Pansare, had on last occasion sought the probe in both the cases to be transferred to the National Investigation Agency (NIA). The court, however, noted that CBI was in touch with NIA, and hence there was no need to hand over probe to the latter at this stage. Dabholkar was shot dead in Pune on August 20, 2013. Pansare was shot at in Kolhapur by assailants on February 16, 2015. He succumbed to his injuries three days later in Mumbai. The Pakistani team probing the Pathankot air base attack will complete its probe this week, a top official said on Monday. The Joint Investigation Team (JIT) will complete probe into Pathankot incident this week, Prime Ministers special assistant on foreign affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi was quoted as saying by Radio Pakistan. Pakistan last week initiated a five-member JIT to probe the terror attack on the Pathankot airbase, a week after it lodged an FIR over the assault without naming Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) chief Masood Azhar who India has accused of having masterminded the strike. Earlier, a six-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) was set up by the federal government for the initial probe into the January 2 attack based on the leads given by India. Three men arrested for their alleged role in the attack were sent to a six-day police remand by an anti-terrorism court in Gujranwala city of Punjab on Saturday. The FIR by the counter-terrorism department of Punjab Police has been lodged on the basis of information provided by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval that four attackers crossed from Pakistan into India and attacked the air base. The attack led to the postponement of a scheduled meeting between foreign secretaries of Pakistan and India in January in Islamabad. Since then, no date has been fixed for the talks. Meanwhile, Fatemi also said the dates for the upcoming SAARC Summit in Islamabad are being worked out in consultation with member states. He said Prime Minister Narendra Modi is also expected to attend the summit. In a bid to exert pressure on absconding Nawada MLA Raj Ballav Yadav to surrender and answer charges against him, the police started the process of attaching his property on Sunday. The MLA is accused of raping a minor. Yadavs house-cum-RJD office in Nawada town, where he allegedly raped the minor, was attached. More than 250 police personnel were deployed to avert any untoward incident during the execution of the court attachment order. Deployment started late Saturday night and vehicles entry to the area was banned. A joint team of Nalanda and Nawada police, comprising eight DSP rank police officers, besides CRPF, state rapid action forces and district armed police forces of Nawada and Nalanda, moved in together. The police also attached the MLAs other immovable properties in Patna, Gaya, Nalanda and Nawada, besides two petrol pumps. Nalanda SP Kumar Ashish confirmed that more attachments would take place until his arrest or surrender. A large number of villagers, including the MLAs supporters, assembled at the spot while over 200 women protested against the police action. A schoolgirl was gangraped by five people, including four minors, in the Wathoda area of Nagpur, police said on Monday. The victim had on Sunday been taken to an isolated place by the accused where they proceeded to gangrape her. They threatened her not to divulge the incident to anybody, police said. The girl managed to reach home and informed her parents about the incident, they said. The victim lodged a complaint with Nandanvan police station, following which a case was registered against 19-year-old Rahul Namdeo Wadhave and the four minors, they said. The minor offenders were arrested and sent to a correction home. The accused were booked under relevant sections of IPC and the Protection of Children from Sexual Offences (POCSO) Act, police said, adding that further investigation is underway. Bihar doctors want guns. Over 160 terror stricken doctors in Bihar have applied for arms licences to protect themselves from criminals. President of the state branch of the Indian Medical association (IMA), Dr Sachchidanand Kumar, told HT that the list of applicants for licence to possess arms included 41 doctors from the Kosi division comprising Saharsa, Supaul and Madhepura, where members of the medical fraternity claim to have received frequent extortion calls. The rest of the applicants belong to Purnia, Gaya, Gopalganj, Kaimur, Hajipur and Siwan districts, where doctors find themselves at the receiving end of criminals, he said. We have also appealed to the director general of police (DGP) to sanction arms licences liberally to the doctors for the safety of their lives and property, added honorary secretary of the IMA, Dr Harihar Dikshit. We firmly believe that in an atmosphere of fear and insecurity, doctors cant deliver their best and ultimately they will be forced to migrate to safer places outside Bihar, he said. Dikshit said the maximum number of doctors who received calls for extortion belong to the Kosi division. Recently, a renowned cardiologist of Saharsa, Dr ID Singh, and physician Dr Brajesh Kumar Singh received calls to pay up Rs 1 crore and Rs 20 lakh respectively. Protesting it, doctors of the district resorted to an indefinite strike from February 22 demanding immediate arrest of the criminals responsible for the calls. Following assurance from the local administration, the agitating doctors called off their strike on Friday. DM Saharsa and DIG Kosi range have also assured the doctors of disposing of the arms licences applications on a priority. Honorary secretary of Saharsa unit of the IMA, Dr Ganesh Kumar, on whom a kidnapping attempt was allegedly made on January 24, 2016, said, around 25 doctors in his district had applied for arms licences. I have also submitted an application to the district administration for a licence to possess arms, said Kumar, who is an ophthalmologist. President of the local unit of the IMA, Dr Jitendra Kumar Singh, who has also applied for licence, said not a day passed when doctors in the Kosi division did not receive threat calls for money. In fact, we have not called off the strike. We have merely postponed it and are waiting for the governments response, he added. Singh said one of the doctors who received extortion calls on February 8, 2016, had applied for licence about a year ago. I wonder why the administration is not considering our demand for license, which we have asked in view of the recent threat perception, he said. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Astronaut Sunita Williams, narrated interesting anecdotes about her life en route to becoming an astronaut, in an interactive session with Sachin Bahmba, chairman and managing director of SPACE group. As Williams reminisced about her childhood and youth and picked her way through the numerous twists and turns to choose her profession, she immediately struck a rapport with audience that comprised students from 60 schools across the Capital and NCR. Since your family has roots in India, what has been your connection with this land? Oh, I totally love India. Growing up in America with my parents and siblings, stories from India always fascinated me. I really looked forward to seeing elephants and mongoose when I visited the country. The first time I had come here was when I was 8 years old. I remember how some three hundred people followed us, as we stepped into the village my dad grew up in. We were touched by the love and hospitality our Indian family had to offer us. A big fan of animal that I am, I was taken for an elephant and camel ride. In fact, I was so moved after seeing a baby camel that I literally wanted to take it back home. Alas, the baby camel was too big to fit in my suitcase. Read: Sunita Williams part of Nasa project to put man on Mars by 2030 Were you always determined about taking up this profession or it happened by chance? As a child I wanted to become a veterinarian. However, my dreams were shattered when despite being a bright student; I failed to get through my choice of universities. The turning point of my life was when, heeding my brothers suggestion, I joined the naval school. There, I learned engineering, science, military and scout -- and realised that I loved the subject. I eventually ended up becoming a test pilot and was flying helicopters when a visit to the Johnson Space Center left me thinking about becoming an astronaut. So you know, I always encourage students to try different things as you may not know what may actually click for you. Astronaut Sunita Williams poses with school children at the India Islamic Cultural Centre, Delhi on Friday. (Sanchit Khanna/HT Photo ) What were your favourite subjects as a student? I was in love with science. My dad was a scientist and we spent hours at his laboratory. I loved physics too as it sounded logical. I, however, was not very fond of maths and ensured that I complete the homework during lunch break, so that I did not have to carry the heavy book home. Read: Sunita Williams undertakes spacewalk to repair space station When were you first introduced to the world of sports? My dad once fell into a lake and was almost drowned. The incident scared him so much that he made all his kids learn swimming even before they could walk. Recount your experience after being selected for training as part of the Nasa space programme. When selected, you begin to think that youre an astronaut. No, you are not. You are just an astronaut candidate. During the two years of training, I learnt about the technicalities involved in building spacecrafts and rockets. I visited different space centres and witnessed the making of payloads and engines. Space has extremes of temperature. One needs to know how to deal with it. I was trained to wear spacesuits, taste food in space, to operate electronics and all other classroom details. Nasa astronaut Sunita Williams during a conversation with Sachin Bahmba, chairman and managing director of SPACE group at India Islamic Cultural Centre in New Delhi on Friday. (Sanchit Khanna/HT Photo) Define the feeling while waiting for the launch of a spacecraft. Everybody whos done it before will try to pacify you but you continue to feel restless. Its no less than a drama. You realise something happening at the bottom of the craft that shakes you -- literally. You begin to hear loud noises and are propelled off the ground. Its like holding on to your life for the first minutes until the rocket takes off. As you advance upwards, you have hard time breathing. And then comes the craziest part -- when everything around you begins to float in the air. Oh, its an amazing experience. Read: Sunita Williams is true Miss Universe How did you feel when you saw Earth from space for the very first time? So, we were upside-down looking through the windows of the space shuttle, when we first saw the upper round curve of the planet. It felt great. We were like Thats the place where we live. The view is such that you can actually make out the thin layer of atmosphere surrounding the planet. After all the success stories, how have you changed as a person? When you are up there for a long time, when space becomes your home, you realise how trivial everything is. It doesnt matter if you are from country A or B, all that really matters is that you are from planet Earth. So you had carried a Bhagvad Gita and samosas to space. Throw some light on it. My dad had given me the book and asked me to read it daily before I go to sleep. And for the samosas, I just love them. We had got it from an Indian community near Nasa that sells delicious food. Describe your daily life at space. See, we have normal working days up there. We wake up at 6 in the morning and stay up for 16 hours. Like on Earth, we too have a relaxed weekend. We clean the space station, do some experiments and sleep. Sundays are fun as we get to skype chat with our families. What are your next plans? Right now, I, along with three other astronauts are working closely on Nasas commercial crew project that is planning to send private flights to the International Space Station that will further open up low-Earth orbit transportation to the private sector. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. Foreign Minister of Armenia Edward Nalbandian made a statement at the High Level Segment of the 31st Session of the UN Human Rights Council. As Armenpress was informed from the Press, Information and Public Relations Department of the Armenian MFA, Armenian Foreign Minister particularly mentioned: Mr. President, Excellences, Ladies and Gentlemen, Ten years of successful experience of the Council is by itself an achievement but it is also a major responsibility. The experiences of recent years prove that human rights, peace and security are interrelated. Today the world is facing unprecedented threats and challenges. We are facing the rise of hatred, xenophobia and racial discrimination, facing situations, where the right to life is under serious threat, as war and other acts of mass violence continue to take the lives of thousands of innocent human beings around the world. Armenia condemns the atrocities, the crimes against humanity perpetrated in the Middle East, by Daesh", Al-Nusra and other terrorist groups, which constitute a threat to the existence of religious and ethnic minorities in the region, including the Armenians who have been for centuries a genuine component of the cultural diversity of the Middle East. About 20.000 refugees sought protection in Armenia due to the conflict, on per capita basis making our country as the third largest recipient of Syrian refugees in Europe. We welcome the initiative to convene high-level meeting on global responsibility sharing through pathways for admission of Syrian refugees which will take place at the end of March, here in Geneva. During its existence, the Human Rights Council has played a key role in international efforts aimed at genocide prevention. There is a growing consensus in the international community that prevention will be effective if it is accompanied by the fight against impunity, against the denigration and denial of the committed genocides. Armenia continuously works on the concept of genocide prevention, and regularly presents to the Human Rights Council appropriate resolutions. In March last year the Human Rights Council, upon the initiative of Armenia, unanimously adopted a resolution on the Prevention of Genocide. I would like to take this opportunity to express our appreciation to all countries who cosponsored and supported this resolution. In follow up to this initiative Armenia continued its efforts within the UN General Assembly by introducing a resolution on designating the 9th of December as International Day of Commemoration and Dignity of the Victims of the Crime of Genocide and of the Prevention of this Crime. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the adoption of the International Covenants on Human Rights. The first article of these Covenants proclaims: All peoples have the right of self-determination. By virtue of that right they freely determine their political status and freely pursue their economic, social and cultural development. It is well known that the UN Charter underlines the respect for the principle of equal rights and self-determination of peoples as a purpose of this organization. This right is among the basic principles presented by the international mediators for the settlement of the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Armenia fully shares this approach because, without free and full exercise of this right, a whole range of human rights are unattainable and lasting peace endangered. We do agree with the view, expressed in the UN, that self-determination is an expression of democracy, and its implementation is essential to the establishment of a peaceful international order. According to the Geneva Conventions civilians may under no circumstances be the object of attack and must be protected. Armenia strongly condemns the continued attacks of Azerbaijani military forces against civilians and civilian objects along the Armenia-Azerbaijan border and the line of contact with Nagorno-Karabakh. It is yet another gross violation of the international humanitarian law by Baku. It requires immediate reaction from the international organizations. Mr. President, I would like to add a few words about Armenias human rights commitments and new developments within human rights agenda. Armenia continues its efforts aimed at consolidating democratic institutions, strengthening the rule of law, national mechanisms for the protection and promotion of human rights and sustains strong partnership with the international organizations. We actively work with all UN human rights mechanisms, including special procedures and treaty bodies. Constitutional reform in Armenia that the Venice Commission of the Council of Europe characterized as of extremely high quality and in line with international standards, was approved by the nation-wide referendum last December. It is another important step also aimed at advancing many of the mentioned goals. In 2015, Armenia passed through the second cycle of the Universal Periodic Review. In November last year, a government-civil society dialogue was held, during which the process of implementation of the UPR recommendations was discussed. The government of Armenia is planning to submit a mid-term progress report which will be continuation of the best practices of work within the UPR process and gives us more opportunities to assess the current situation and rightly planning further actions. The successful implementation of recommendations stemming from the UPR and other UN human rights mechanisms will further strengthen Armenias human rights records and strengthen the rule of law and democracy. Thank you. Finance minister Arun Jaitley on Monday unveiled a largely pro-poor budget, increasing social spending and farm credit in a bid to revive the rural economy without over-spending. Jaitley shunned populism while balancing the key priorities of investment, growth and jobs in a Budget eyeing reforms. In his second full Budget, the finance minister sent out an unambiguous signal: despite electoral setbacks and an aggressive Opposition, the government remained firm on reforms. But his proposals on Monday courted criticism equally as praise, with Opposition leaders saying that there was no immediate stimulus that will create disposable income or create new jobs. Manmohan Singh The former Prime Minister said that it was a mixed bag budget, no big idea. He also said it was impossible to double farmers income in a span of 5 years. (PTI Photo) Manish Tewari, Congress leader FM presented a piece of rhetoric which will contribute to the shrinking of economy #budget2016 high on rhetoric,flawed on comparison,low on imagination, bereft of ideas,services oligarchs,constricts freedom of RBI.DEAD SCUD Manish Tewari (@ManishTewari) 29 February 2016 Kamal Nath, Congress leader There is no immediate stimulus to create disposable income in hands of people or generate employment. I think the middle class should have got more relief Shashi Tharoor, Congress leader Government has painted a very general picture, have adopted many old policies of UPA Rajnath Singh, Union home minister Congratulations to the Finance Minister Shri @arunjaitley on presenting an excellent Union Budget for the fiscal year 2016-17. It is pro farmer, pro poor and pro reform budget. It outlines the priorities of this government and the vision of Prime Minister Shri Modi (PTI Photo) Congratulations to the Finance Minister Shri @arunjaitley on presenting an excellent Union Budget for the fiscal year 2016-17. Rajnath Singh (@BJPRajnathSingh) 29 February 2016 It is pro farmer, pro poor and pro reform budget. It outlines the priorities of this government and the vision of Prime Minister Shri Modi Rajnath Singh (@BJPRajnathSingh) 29 February 2016 Kiran Bedi, BJP leader Very holistic specific solutions being offered to pending tax litigations by Finance Minister. @Arunjaitely. Can be used to resolve now Very holistic specific solutions being offered to pending tax litigations by Finance Minister. @Arunjaitely. Can be used to resolve now Kiran Bedi (@thekiranbedi) 29 February 2016 Yashwant Sinha, former finance minister BJP member Yashwant Sinha speaks in the Lok Sabha in New Delhi during the ongoing budget session. (PTI Photo) Yes the FM has passed the test, there is something for everyone in this budget. Agar aap ameeron se thoda lekar aur ghareebon ke dene ka kaam kar rahe hain toh ye acchi baat hai (If you are taking a little from the rich and giving it to the poor it is a good thing). Radha Mohan Singh, Union agriculture minister Azadi ke baad ye pehla budget hai jo gaon, kisaan, ghareeb ke liye samarpit hai (This is the first Budget since Independence that is dedicated to the villages, farmers and the poor). Read: Budget 2016: Jaitley says no to populism, rural economy in focus Nitin Gadkari, minister of road transport and highways For the first time in the history, more than Rs 1 lakh crore is allocated to development of roads. Its historic. Radhika Rao, economist, DBS, Singapore It is encouraging to see that fiscal discipline has been given priority at todays budget, though we await the fine-print. Budgetary assumptions, especially nominal GDP growth will be key. Implementation of the pay commission proposals is also unclear in the speech, so more details are also sought here. Focus on rural/ social sector spending and roads/ highways are along expected lines and positive. But less-than-expected support for banks recapitalisation has disappointed. Services tax was left unchanged and long-term capital gains tax fears were left misplaced. Atsi Sheth, associate managing director, Sovereign Risk Group, Moodys Investors Service They have stuck to the fiscal deficit target. We always said fiscal consolidation would continue, but slowly, and thats indeed what the finance ministers budget is saying. Yoginder K Alagh, farm expert and former member of Planning Commission These steps will help our millions of farmers recover from the rough patch they have been going through but the government will have to raise its allocation for the crop insurance scheme, as the gap between farmers cost on farming and their loss, if any, is huge. Although I welcome higher allocation for irrigation, we need to see its implementation. The government has been raising its irrigation spending every year, but weve failed to bring any extra area under irrigation facility. How does higher allocation help then? Read: Budget 2016: 4-month window for black money holders to come clean RC Bhargava, chairman, Maruti Suzuki The vehicle manufacturers are being directed to get to Euro 6 by 2020 and vehicles contribute so little to pollution. Main pollutant in Delhi for example is PM 2.5, which is dust. Cars only contribute 2 percent to that according to IIT Kanpur study. So why only cars are being targeted for pollution, especially when they are being pushed to incur the higher cost for Euro 6 is something which is difficult to understand and accept as being fair and reasonable. Jaitleys son-in-law As a common man, I can say he has concentrated elaborately on all aspects. Jaitleys daughter Sonali Full marks to the Union Budget 2016. D Raja, CPI Outside the budget, they promised a lot to the corporate sector. Not evident now. Nothing spectacular in the budget. Lalu Yadav, Rashtriya Janata Dal chief (PTI Photo) PM Modi said he will double the income of farmers by 2022. What is the guarantee? Promise of doubling farmer income to 2022, want to secure their berth till then, the government will fall in 2019. Krishna Kumar Karwa, managing director, Emkay Global Financial Services Ltd The budget has been along expected lines with enhanced focus on agriculture, rural India, infrastructure and social sector. The adherence to fiscal deficit target of 3.5% is a huge positive and will send right signals across the globe and will probably nudge the RBI for a rate cut. From a capital market perspective there is a huge sense of relief that long term capital gains tax is status quo. However, increase STT on options and dividend tax on above 10 lakh dividend receipts is disappointing. The allocation of Rs 25,000 crore for bank recapitlisation is slightly disappointing though the FM has assured that if required they will provide more resources. To summarise, a balanced budget in light of global uncertainty and gives the necessary thrust to revive rural economy. Police have arrested five people for their alleged role in forcibly cutting the hair of a class 10 girl student over her friendship with a married man named Salamu in Omarganj village under Jamania police station in Ghazipur district. As per the police, the girl alleged that she was dragged to a room by five people when she was returning home after writing her examinations on Friday. They allegedly thrashed her before cutting her hair. Hearing her screams, locals reached the spot and got the girl freed. The girls mother lodged a complaint with police against the five culprits of the same village on Saturday. The police registered a case in this connection and launched a search for the culprits. They arrested two of them Kamalu and one other on Saturday night. Later, three more namely Sharjahan, Hina and Kitabunnisha, all relatives of Salamu, were arrested for the criminal act. Victims of the 1984 anti-Sikh riots held a protest in Ludhiana ahead of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwals meeting with industrialists, accusing him of supporting the accused. More than 100 Sikh protesters including women gathered outside the Whistling Woods resort, where the meeting was to be held, at 10am on Monday and shouted slogans against Kejriwal. They accused the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) convener of siding with Congress leader Jagdish Tytler who has been accused of involvement in the riots, which followed the assassination of the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, in Delhi. I want to remind my sisters in Delhi that Kejriwal is responsible for our losses as we lost our siblings and parents in the riots. He has no right to enter Punjab, said Sukhjit Kaur, a victim. Later, addressing a function organised by the Ludhiana Management (LMA), Kejriwal announced that he would be back in Punjab to specifically meet industrialists and hear and address their concerns. Please prepare a vision document, keeping in mind the fiscal state of Punjab. We will certainly bring about a turnaround and there will be no problem later, but we will have to give it time, he said. Kejriwal kick-started his 5-day tour to Punjab, which goes to polls next year, on Thursday and has been touring parts of the state to campaign for his party amid sporadic protests. Read more: Raj Karega Khalsa: Kejriwal plays Panthic card in Sikh heartland Read more: United colours of AAP: Characters in Kejriwals Punjab caravan : Its not the free India we dreamt of. This is not the system for which we fought for freedom. This sums up the anguish of 97-year-old Mohan Singh, who fought an eight-year-long legal battle to get his due for having participated in the 1942 Quit India movement. The nonagenarian freedom fighters pension was discontinued in 2007 on the ground that he could not get his claim of having spent at least six months in the Lahore jail attested by two co-prisoners. It had taken the government 18 years to decide on his claim for pension, following which he was granted Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme in 2005, only to be withdrawn in December 2007. I am happy that I have won the legal battle, but at the same time, I am sad that I had to fight a legal battle to prove that I fought for freedom and was jailed during the Quit India movement, said Mohan Singh, reacting to the Punjab and Haryana high court judgment that restored his pension from 2007 onwards. After his pension was discontinued, the freedom fighter, who remained in jail from October 20, 1942, to July 24, 1943, had approached the court. I sold a plot to fight the legal battle. The money has no meaning to me as I am already 97 years old, but getting the pension under the specific scheme, which acknowledges my participation in the 1942 movement, means a lot to me, said Mohan Singh, who resides at Urban Estate and is taken care of by his daughter. Mohan Singhs counsel GPS Bal said the high court relied on the Supreme Court judgment that opined that the grant of benefits under the scheme has to be liberal and a technical approach is not required to be taken for examining the claims of the persons, who have suffered more than six months of imprisonment. Once the country has decided to honour such freedom fighters, the bureaucrats entrusted with the job of examining the cases of such freedom fighters are expected to keep in mind the purpose and object of the scheme. Their cases are required to be examined on the basis of probabilities and not on the touch stone of the test of beyond reasonable doubt, stated the judgment. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has again slapped summons on Chief Parliamentary Secretary (CPS) and ruling Shiromani Akali Dal (SAD) MLA, Avinash Chandar asking him to join probe in the case of multi-crore Bhola drug racket case. The CPS, who had joined probe on October 13, 2015, has now been summoned on March 8 by the agency. The summons were issued to the CPS on Monday. As per the summons, the CPS has to appear before the ED with the documents of giving details of few purchases of property made by the CPS in recent more than five years. Sources said the agency has again speed up the investigation in the Bhola drug racket case as in recent few months due to uncertaininty over transfer of Assistant Director and Investigating Officer of the drug case, Niranjan Singh, the investigation has almost come to standstill. The agency has again speed up the probe now and summonning of the CPS is the first among the second round of summoning of many political personalities allegedly linked with the case. Information procured by HT revealed that Avinash has again been summoned in the case because of his alleged links with few persons who are already in ED net in different cases of money laundering. The agency , just one day after the first summoning of the CPS, had raised ashop of his key aide and foreign money exchanger Chatinder Goyal Seeta Arhtiya in the Phillaur grain mark and has procured few hawala transaction documents. Goyal, member of the market committee of Phillaur from the Akali quota and president of the towns arhhitya (commission agent) association, was known to have done fundraising for the CPS; and the ED suspects his job was to convert black money into white for the politcal leaders. Shabby past of aides of the CPS Goyal was not the only close associate of the CPS. Two more right hand men of the SAD MLA, Gurmail Singh Bhola and Manjeet Singh Billa have alredy been investigated by the police in the drug supply case. The Jalandhar police had interrogated Bhola few months before summoning of the CPS last year while Billa is locked up since the police claimed to have seized drug power from him in June. Bhola, most trusted partner of the CPS who as per locals have made huge money from the sand business till he flew to the foreign country just after investigation by the Police last year, owns heavy trucks and other digging machiner. He enjoyed completed freedom at the local administrative level to carry out illegal mining. Avinash has also remained close to the family of Gorya Based Businessman Chunni Lal Gabba, whose propertly worth more than 100 crores have alredy been attached by the agency. Avinash could not be contacted has calls made on his mobile were not picked up. ED takes custody of Canadian NRI The agency on Monday also took custody of an accused in Bhola drug case and close association of the drug lord, Sukhraj Singh alias Raja. A Canadian resident, Raja, ED believes, used to appear on behalf of Bhola for carrying registeries of big properties purchased by the drug lord. The agency has recently asked a special court Patiala court for the custody of Raja, aftter his role emerged as a close associate of Bhola when ED attached many properties of Bhola worth hundered of crores. Raja is basically a native of Jalandhar and his investigation by the ED is likely to provide the agency more leads about the role of NRIs in the drug case. The NRI, whose custody will end on March 2, will be investigated by the agency in a special cell available in the ED headquarters in Jalandhar. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Punjab Congress chief Captain Amarinder Singh dubbed as most disappointing the union budget presented by finance minister Arun Jaitely, saying the budget failed everybodys expectations. The budget lacks vision and direction and has ended up as a mere annual ritual without spelling out agenda for growth we have been hearing for the past two years, Captain said. Stating that the agriculture sector does not figure prominently in the budget, Amarinder said there is no provision for providing relief to the debt-ridden farmers driven to despair and suicides in so many states. Leave aside waiving off their debt, there is not even a nominal relief or word of consolation for the farmers in the budget, he remarked. Finance minister Arun Jaitley had particularly disappointed a large section of the middle class which was expecting an increase in the income tax exemption limit. Instead, the finance minister has imposed extra taxes on almost all sectors which will affect the common man, he added. A huge disappointment: Bhattal Former CM Rajinder Kaur Bhattal termed the budget a huge disappointment. Neither it contains relief nor rebate for the common man. The agriculture sector has been completely ignored. In fact, the farming sector has been abandoned by the present NDA government, she added. The budget spells out no measures to generate avenues of employment for rural people, she added. Jaitely made no attempt to arrest the trend of suicides among farmers by offering relief to their families, said Bhattal. In a bid to rein in the wild animal menace, the government would set up enclosed habitats for marauding monkeys a major cause of concern for the agrarian community across the state. Forest minister Thakur Singh Bharmauri in reply to a question of Kullu legislator Maheshwar Singh said that the government was working on checking man-animal conflict. He said the forest department has already conducted a survey to assess the population of monkeys. The government would declare monkeys as vermin after assessing the survey. He said that the enclosed habitants for the monkeys would be set up in nine different locations where sterilisation centres were already functional. Former chief minister Prem Kumar Dhumal in a supplementary wanted to know whether the government made any correspondence with the Central government about declaring the monkeys as vermin. Dhumal demanded the forest minister to table the copy of the correspondence in the House. Dhumal said in his assembly segment the monkeys had made it difficult for children to go to schools while the women folks are hesitant to work in the fields. He urged the forest department to at least declare the monkeys as vermin in Shimla and Hamirpur towns where the menace was alarming. Nurpur legislator Ajay Mahajan asked the government to disburse relief to those injured by stray bulls. Dehra legislator Ravinder Singh Ravi sought relief for a family in Una that lost a member after being attacked by a stray bull. Replying to a question posed by Bhatiyat legislator Vikram Singh Jaryal, revenue minister Kaul Singh Thakur said the directions had been passed on to deputy commissioners to provide land for schools. While raising the issue, Jaryal apprised the minister that as many as 500 primary schools in Chamba district were without land. He cited an example of a primary school in Godra where the children were forced to study in the open due to lack of land. He said the public representatives also find it difficult to provide funds for welfare of the schools since they did not have land of their own. In answer to a question of Sarkaghat legislator Inder Singh, irrigation and public health minister Vidya Stokes said the Centre was not providing funds to channelise the rivers. Stokes said central water commission (CWC) was yet to give technical approval. Stokes also said that the department had prepared a detailed project report of `62 crore to prevent fields from flooding river near Chandruhi bridge. This DPR was sent to CWC but they raised some objections. No budget to restore damages due to rain Health and Family welfare minister Kaul Singh Thakur said no specific budget for restoration of damages due to rain was allocated under the Integrated Tribal Development Programme. In reply to a question of Lahaul-Spiti legislator Ravi Thakur, he said Rs 11 crore had been allotted to tribal districts under the state disaster response fund (SDRF), National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF) under the natural calamity, rain damages and restoration works in 2014-15. The Haryana government has told the Punjab and Haryana high court on Monday that as many as 1,117 criminal cases had been registered and 147 people had been arrested in connection with the violence reported during the Jat quota agitation in the state. Submitting a status report on the issue, director general of police (DGP) YP Singal told the high court that 30 people had lost their lives in the protests and 324 people had been injured including 67 security personnel. The figures reported were up to February 28. Posting the matter for further hearing for March 14, the high court bench of justice SK Mittal and justice HS Sidhu observed that government should list damaged properties of government as well as private persons. The government was also verbally told to find out as to how violent protests took place in the presence of security personnel. The high court also asked the state whether it had made any recoveries of looted goods etc, so far. This is an issue where we all are wrong. Everybody has to realise how to maintain peace. Past is past. Let it remain so. Think of the future, the high court bench observed. Court questions Ambala man on petition against BJP MP The court refused to give any direction to media as one of the counsel accused the media of sensationalisation. (HT Photo) The high court bench questioned an Ambala resident Paramjit Singh Gill as to why he had filed a petition seeking action against Bharatiya Janata Party MP Raj Kumar Saini who had reportedly given inflammatory statements against Jats. Why have you not impleaded others. It is not him only, others were also giving (such) statements, the high court bench asked while adjourning the hearing on plea for April 26. Court refuses to give any direction to media The court refused to give any direction to media as one of the counsel accused the media of sensationalisation. We cant refrain the media from reporting it. If you have anything substantial against anybody, implead them as a party, the court told one of the counsels who had sought directions to the media for reporting on the issue. A 45-year-old businessman from Kapurthala district was shot dead in the Philippines on Saturday. The victim, Balwinder Singh, who hailed from Sidhwan Dona village, had been running a business in San Jose city for the past 17 years. A pal of gloom descended on the village on Sunday after someone from Manila conveyed the tragic news to Balwinders parents over the phone. According to the family, Balwinder was shot outside a gurdwara in San Jose by some assailants, after calling him to meet for a business meeting. The victims elder brother Joginder Singh said, Balwinder returned to the Philippines two months back and he brought an end to our financial woes with his hard work. We will try to bring back his body as soon as possible and would also approach the external affairs ministry in this regard, he added. It is the fourth incident in the last one month that a man from Doaba region was killed in the Philippines. Gurinder Singh, a resident of Basti Bawa Khel and Vipan Bhatti of Adampur in Jalandhar were gunned down by unidentified assailants in Manila in January this year. Raghbir Singh of Lambra was murdered in the country on February 8. Claiming that she is a habitual complainant, the villagers of Jatheri have united against the woman who now has accused seven of them, including her brother-in-law, of raping her on the GT Road in Sonepat district during the Jat agitation on February 23. At a meeting on Monday morning, the villagers decided to go to the chief minister with request for a fair investigation, claiming that since 1999, the woman has filed several fake complaints of rape and kidnapping against several people, including her brother, brothers-in-law, and father-in-law, but failed to prove the allegations every time in court, turning hostile witness in most instances. Jatheris woman sarpanch Sunita Devi has demanded a high-level investigation into her charges. Besides the complainants in-laws, her mother and sister have also accused her of trying to blackmail members of the family in the past. I severed ties with my daughter and son-in-law when they accused my son of kidnapping their daughter. However, we remain on good terms with her in-laws, said complainants mother, Samundri Devi. The complainants younger sister, Seema, said: She is known to be a blackmailer, who didnt spare even her brothers. Villagers said that on December 28, 2012, complainants father-in law, Shiv Narain, had disowned his son, Satpal, and lodged a complaint against him with the station house officer (SHO) of Rai. Sonepat superintendent of police Abhishek Garg confirmed that forensic experts had visited the scene of crime with the complainant, and police were also studying her previous complaints. She has now changed her statement to claim she was gangraped near Bighan Chowk, about 2km towards Panipat from Sukhdev Dhaba on the GT Road, he said. Past complaints April 26, 1999, against Satbeer Singh: Accuses him of raping her when she was alone at home; first-information report registered at Rai village under Sections 376 (punishment for rape), 452 (house trespass after preparation for assault or wrongful restraint) and 506 (punishment for criminal intimidation) of the Indian Penal Code (IPC); but in the court, later, she turns a hostile witness and on November 17, 1999, the Sonepat additional sessions judge acquits Satbeer June 4, 2001: Accuses Naresh Tyagi of Holamabi Kalan, Delhi, of raping her at his Ankur Vihar office in Delhi; FIR registered in Delhi under Sections 376, 506, and 34 (common intent in crime) of the IPC but lack of evidence forces the Tees Hazari court to acquit Tyagi on December 2, 2015 2013: Files a rape complaint in Delhi, but the Shahbad Dairy police do not register the FIR for want of evidence November 26, 2013: She accuses six people of kidnapping her husband, Satpal. Accused Sadhu Ram (her brother-in-law), Shiv Kumar, Balwan, Pardeep, and Raj Singh are booked under Sections 323 (punishment for causing hurt voluntarily), 341 (punishment for wrongful restraint), 354 (attempt to outrage womans modesty) and 506 (punishment for criminal intimidation) at Shahabad Dairy police station in Delhi; later, police find nothing incriminating in investigation and the call details of Satpal reveal that he was on mobile-phone with his brother-in-law, Kallu, during the alleged kidnapping. September 2001: Complainant and her husband sell their 9-bigha land at Jatheri village and move into Delhi with two daughters, still filing complaints against family to seek more share in the property. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. Armenian Foreign Minister Edward Nalbandian, being on a working visit in Geneva, met with Head of the Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs Didier Burkhalter on February 29. Armenpress was informed from the Press, Information and Public Relations Department of the Armenian MFA that Edward Nalbandian expressed satisfaction over dynamically developing Armenian-Swiss relations to which the ongoing high-quality dialogue stimulates. Didier Burkhalter in turn mentioned that Switzerland attaches importance to strengthening friendly relations with Armenia. The interlocutors discussed wide range of issues concerning bilateral cooperation. Reference was made to the economic and cultural cooperation, parliamentary ties and to the reinforcement of cooperation within international organizations. The Foreign Ministers of Armenia and Switzerland discussed urgent regional and international issues. Hope was expressed that the Russian-US joint statement on Syrian ceasefire will pave the way to re-establish peace and stability in Syria. Edward Nalbandian introduced his Swiss colleague with the negotiation process within the OSCE Minsk Group co-chairs, aimed at a peaceful settlement of the Karabakh conflict. At the end of the meeting Edward Nalbandian and Didier Burkhalter signed an agreement on visa facilitation between the Republic of Armenia and the Swiss Confederation. The Haryana government on Monday told the Punjab and Haryana high court that no incident of rape or molestation was reported anywhere in the state during the 10-day Jat agitation. No such incident was reported from Murthal as well, said a preliminary status report submitted to the court by the all-women special investigation team (SIT) probing the alleged gang rapes. The report also quoted the district legal services authorities as saying that no complaints of rape or molestation had been lodged. The report came a day after the police filed the first FIR, after a complaint by a Delhi resident who alleged she was pulled out of her car and gang raped by seven men on February 23 near Murthal. The womans brother-in-law is among the accused. Police officers said it was possible the incident was not linked to the alleged spate of rapes reported by a section of the media. The high court directed the SIT to submit a complete report by March 14, the next date of hearing. The preliminary report also said around 1,000 other FIRs were registered for violence that saw at least 28 people killed and scores injured. Lauding Union finance minister Arun Jaitley for allocating Rs 100 crore to mark the 350th birth anniversary celebrations of Guru Gobind Singh, Punjab chief minister Parkash Singh Badal on Monday hailed the Union Budget as pro-farmer, growth-oriented and balanced. It is a matter of great pride for all of us that the Union government has made a special provision of Rs 100 crore in the budget for celebrating the birth anniversary of the great Sikh guru, Badal said, stating that this pro-minority stance of the NDA government was the Centres humble tribute towards the supreme sacrifice made by the 10th Sikh Guru. He said: This unprecedented decision of the Union government is a supreme gift for every Punjabi in general and Sikhs across the globe in particular. Thanking the NDA government for almost doubling budgetary provisions in the agriculture sector, Badal said announcements such as the introduction of Pashudhan Sanjivani, an animal wellness programme; provision of animal health cards (Nakul Swasthya Patra); creation of e-Pashudhan Haat, an e-market portal for connecting breeders and farmers; and the National Genomic Centre for indigenous breeds at a cost of Rs 850 crore; would go a long way in making the allied farming sector far more remunerative. This budget is a step forward towards ensuring the well-being of farmers, he added. People-oriented Focus on agricultural and rural sectors is a welcome step. The budget is people-oriented and it will benefit the farming community. Parminder Singh Dhindsa, Punjab finance minister Game-changer This budget will be a game-changer for the rural economy. It is also aimed at boosting the income of farmers. Sukhbir Singh Badal, deputy CM Impetus to investment The 100% FDI in retail of food produced in India will provide tremendous impetus to investment in the food processing sector. Harsimrat Kaur Badal, Union food processing minister After only one city from the state was able to make it to the list of first 20 cities which will be developed as part of the first phase of the smart city project, the Punjab local bodies department is gearing up for the second phase of the plan. The department is going to hold its first meeting as part of the second phase on April 1. VP Singh, general manager, Punjab Municipal Infrastructure Development Company (PMIDC), confirmed the development. The meeting has been called to hold the discussion as to how we can upgrade our smart city proposals. We have received guidelines from the government and we are going to work accordingly, said VP Singh. This will be the first meeting the department is going to hold after the Union ministry announced the first list on January 28. Municipal commissioners of Amritsar and Jalandhar have been asked to attend the meeting along with the consultants roped in for these cities. Jalandhar MC commissioner GS Khaira said he received a call in this connection and he will be attending the meeting. Interestingly, the mayors of these cities have not been invited for the meeting. Officials of Jalandhar municipal corporation said for the second round, they will focus on public participation which is one of the several reasons why the city lagged behind Ludhiana in the first phase. In terms of public participation, Ludhiana had succeeded in engaging around 1 lakh residents while Jalandhar could garner only 26,000 votes. Not received smart city analysis report Though the nodal officers of Jalandhar, Ludhiana and Amritsar are citing several reasons that led to their failure in the race, officials said they have not received the analysis report on the same from the ministry concerned even after one month has elapsed since. On January 28, when Union urban development minister Venkaiah Naidu made announced 20 cities that will be included as part of the smart city plan, the points scored by each city were made public. On the basis of which factors a certain city has been selected was not made clear. Jalandhar was in the 27th position with 53.08 marks while Amritsar was 25th with 54.55 marks. Chandigarh, which was included in the list of 23 cities also termed as fast track cities that have been given the chance of upgrade itself for the second round of Smart city with par to 54 cities for the top 40 position. The Haryana police still have no evidence of rape or sexual assault on woman during the 10-day violent agitation by the Jat community, the Punjab and Haryana high court has been told. The remarks were part of the preliminary report submitted by the all-women special investigation team (SIT) of the police probing reports of alleged gang rape of women in Murthal area of Sonepat district. The preliminary report said the team approached people in many areas, particularly Murthal, but nobody stated that there was any rape or molestation. The report comes a day after the police filed the first FIR in the case, after a complaint by Delhi resident who alleged she was pulled out of her car and gang raped by seven men on February 23 near Murthal. Read more: 7 booked after Delhi woman alleges gang-rape in Murthal during Jat stir The womans brother-in-law is among the accused. Police officers said it was possible the incident was not linked to the alleged spate of rapes reported by a section of the media. The high court directed the SIT to submit a detailed, complete report by March 14, the next date of hearing. The preliminary report also said around 1,000 other FIRs were registered for violence that saw at least 28 people killed and scores injured. It said the District legal Services Authority (DLSA) had set up call centres in every district to urge victims to lodge complaints. Read more: QUOTA QUAKE: Tales of death and destruction from Haryanas Jat stir A British Sikh group on Monday asked the police to refrain from using the term Asian while referring to criminals of South Asian origin, especially in the aftermath of Rotherham sex trials that largely involve Pakistani Muslim men, who preyed on teenaged girls. The Sikh Federation UK made the plea following last weeks conviction of four Pakistan-origin men, belonging to a single family, for raping and sexually abusing as many as 15 teenage girls for more than 16 years in Rotherham, northern England. If the four men that have been found guilty and carried out the abuse were Pakistani Muslims, this is how they should be described and not called Asian, Bhai Amrik Singh of the group told The Independent. One of the demands in the Sikh Manifesto that we published a year ago before the general election was that the government should encourage public bodies and the media to abandon the use of the term Asian when describing perpetrators for reasons of political correctness, he added. The ringleader, Arshid Hussain, was imprisoned for 35 years, while his brothers Basharat Hussain, 39, and Bannaras Hussain, 36, were handed 25 years and 19 years, respectively. Their uncle, Qurban Ali, 53, was jailed for 10 years. The case has been prominently discussed in the media as an example of Asian grooming gangs, which the group believes divides communities. We have learnt that the perpetrators of these crimes regarded themselves as above the law as the authorities were supposedly worried about race relations and turned a blind eye despite repeated warnings, Amrik Singh said. The issue was also previously criticised in December 2013, when Sikh and Hindu groups initiated a petition. In a joint statement then, the Hindu Council UK, the Network of Sikh Organisations, Sikh Media Monitoring Group and the Sikh Awareness Society, said: Communities who themselves fall victim to this emerging pattern of criminality should not be besmirched by the vague terminology, Asian. In order to help find a solution to the problem, we need to be clear on the identity of those involved. The petition closed with 1,859 signatures calling for the word Asian to not be used in grooming and sex abuse cases. If the four men found guilty (in Rotherham sex abuse case) were Pakistani Muslims, this is how they should be described, not as Asian, said Bhai Amrik Singh of Sikh Federation UK Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwals visit to the industrial town of Mandi Gobindgarh on Monday received a mixed response with the Delhi chief minister concluding his Punjab tour with only a seven-minute speech. Later, he cancelled his visit to Patiala and left for SAS Nagar to board a flight to Delhi. When questioned on the attack on him in Ludhiana, Kejriwal replied, Why are you asking me? Ask the Badals. Addressing the gathering, he said he would visit the state again in May and hold special meetings with industrialists. This visit was dedicated to drug menace and farm suicide victims. Next time, I will concentrate more on industry, he said. Badals are earning Rs 2-2.5 crore a day just by imposing Goonda Tax on crushers in Batala. We will end corruption, he added. Manmohan Singh Mangat, president, Steel Chamber of Mandi Gobindgarh, said industrialists were not favouring any political party. After Kejriwal left the venue, local party workers faced angry residents who claimed they were not allowed to meet the AAP convener. Finance minister Arun Jaitley painted a rare rural mural in his budget speech on Monday, signalling where priorities lay for the Modi government -- the farm and social sectors, with added focus on women and small businesses. The ministers speech delved into agriculture early as it promised to double farm incomes in just over five years, which would mean the sector growing faster than the rest of the economy at the current clip. Stock markets reacted adversely, falling more than 500 points in intra-day trade, but recovered later as the budget sidestepped temptations to make taxes easier for the salaried class and risk a higher fiscal deficit. A ballooning wage and pension bill removed a large chunk off the governments resource cake. Despite risks of slippages looming, the minister pledged to the keep the fiscal deficit the gap between what the government spends and earns at 3.5% of GDP. Instead of a big spending kick, Jaitley unveiled carefully crafted measures to boost affordable housing, spread digital literacy, nurture technology start-ups and create new manufacturing units while setting aside more money for anti-poverty schemes pioneered by the previous UPA government. The measures could shape a larger economic engine in the hinterland to spur industrial demand and help counter the Opposition that has often accused the Modi government of being pro-rich, tagging it as a suit-boot ki sarkar. The job quota protests by the predominantly agricultural Jat community are also linked to dwindling farm incomes. With assembly polls looming in a series of states, the aroma of electoral politics in the budget speech was distinct. We need to think beyond food security and give back to our farmers a sense of income security, the minister said. He set aside Rs 20,000 crore for a new irrigation fund, proposed internet-based e-markets to sell produce and increased allocation for MGNREGA, the rural job scheme, by 11% to Rs 38,500 crore in 2016-17. He also allocated Rs 97,000 crore, the highest ever, for development of roads, with a third of the outlay earmarked for rural areas. We have a desire to provide socio-economic security to every Indian, especially the farmers, the poor and the vulnerable, Jaitley said. To fund the big rural and infrastructure push in his budgetary proposals, Jaitley increased the surcharge on tax paid by people with incomes above Rs 1 crore from 12% to 15%, imposed a 0.5% cess on services taking the service tax rate to 15%, brought back tax on dividend incomes exceeding of Rs 10 lakh and began slashing exemptions that help companies reduce their tax payouts. He left income tax slabs and rates unchanged, disappointing the salaried class. However, he gave marginal relief to some 20 million taxpayers with incomes under Rs 5 lakh by increasing the ceiling on rebate for them from Rs 2,000 to Rs 5,000. There was focus on indirect taxes, especially a series of cess levies, which would keep the tax registers jingling. The finance minister cut customs duties on a slew of items imported as inputs or raw materials so that their processing could spin manufacturing jobs under the governments ambitious Make in India programme. The minister set aside Rs 25,000 crore for Indias bad loan-hit banks. He introduced a special scheme to settle disputes and simplified tax rules to signal a friendly administration. Jaitley also spelled out plans to spin jobs, build infrastructure and foster a climate for small businesses and start-ups to flourish. He promised an increase in social spending, more than last years budget, reflecting the realisation that if the rural and social sectors were left behind, double-digit overall growth would be hard to achieve. He allocated Rs 2,000 crore to give cooking gas connections to women in poor households and a scheme for health insurance of up to Rs 1 lakh per family. Such schemes will aid 15 million households below the poverty line. Prime Minister Modi, who on Sunday described the budget as his annual exam, hailed Jaitleys speech. Budget2016 will ensure a qualitative transformation in our villages & in the lives of farmers, women & marginalised sections of society, Modi said in a tweet. The Indian states can take a lot from finance minister Arun Jaitleys budget aiming to transform rural economy by better road connectivity, improving irrigation and empowering Panchayats by pumping around Rs 3 lakh crore. All this has a target --- doubling the farmers income by 2022. Rajasthan, which has already announced Jal Swabhiman scheme to improve watershed management, can hope to increase its irrigation network as 28.5 lakh hectares of farm land will be brought under the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana in the next two years. Most of it would be in the traditionally Bimaru states of Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Jharkhand, Bihar and Odisha, where agriculture is largely dependent on rain water. In addition, states can also borrow money Nabard, where an irrigation fund of Rs 20,000 crore will be set up. These states can now rely more on rural employment guarantee scheme to create durable watershed management assets as the scheme has got higher allocation of Rs 38,500 crore for next fiscal. Just 46% of Indias farm land has irrigation facility. The increased focus on rural roads under Pradhan Mantri Gramin Sadak Yojana for which Rs 19,000 crore has been proposed as against Rs 9,805 crore in 2013-14 will also improve rural connectivity in states, especially hilly states like Uttarakhand. The pace of construction which is currently 100 km per day, as compared to the average of 73.5 kms during 2011-14, will be substantially stepped up, the minister said. It will mean additional 65,000 hamlets getting roads, half to be in these Bimaru states. By the time irrigation network and better roads would be in place, Jaitley proposed electricity for every village by May 2018, crucial to boost rural economy. Around 30% of villages did not have power till 2015 end. Thats not all as Jaitley will increase direct funding to states by Rs 64,144 crore in next fiscal as compared to 2015-16, resulting in states getting Rs 5,70,337 crore, a 50% jump from actual funding in 2014-15. The engines of rural growth and governance --- panchayat and urban local bodies --- will get a grant of Rs 2,87,000 crore as recommended by 14th Finance Commission, a jump of 228% compared to the previous five year period. Panchayats will get Rs 655 crore from next financial year to develop capacity to implement Sustainable Development Goals. All this raise a poignant issue --- whether local bodies have capacity to absorb so much money. Analysis by Delhi based advocacy group Accountability Initiative showed states spent 10% less funds by December 2015 compared to their spends in the five-year period preceding 2014. Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra and Jharkhand were, however, exceptions. This year Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh could be added to the list as they already have prepared plans to absorb additional Central aid. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON YEREVAN, FEBRUARY 29, ARMENPRESS. According to the decree of Armenian President Serzh Sargsyan, Yervand Zakharyan is dismissed from the post of Armenian Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. According to another presidential decree, Levon Yolyan is appointed Armenian Minister of Energy and Natural Resources. Armenpress was informed about the aforementioned from the Department of Mass Media and Public Relations of the Armenian Presidents Staff. According to Serzh Sargsyans another decree, Levon Yolyan is dismissed from the post of Armenian Republics Deputy Chairman of the Control Chamber. Prime Minister Narendra Modi may be expanding Indias global image but his smaller council of ministers isnt turning out to be any cheaper for the exchequer. The NDA spent Rs 567 crore during the financial year on tour expenses of his council of ministers, more than double of the Rs 269 crore allocated by the finance ministry this year. The statistics made public in the budget documents presented on Monday come against the backdrop of criticism targeting the Prime Minister for his frequent foreign trips at the cost of domestic issues. In the last 21 months since taking charge, Modi travelled abroad on 19 occasions, visiting 33 countries. This year, he has decided to limit his foreign engagements to the bare minimum, with the first foreign visit scheduled in March to Saudi Arabia, Brussels and the United States. However, it remains unclear if the fewer foreign trips will significantly cut on tour expenses. Though the ministry expects to wrap up the expenditure on the council of ministers and the Prime Ministers Office (PMO) in less than Rs 419 crore, a government official said the PMO is expected to overshoot this estimate in the next financial year. In fact, a significant proportion of the additional funds required this year were to clear bills of previous visits, a government official said, referring to six foreign visits that former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh had taken during the last leg of his tenure. Payments for most of the foreign visits that Modi had undertaken in the last one year are also pending. Of 19 visits, the government paid Rs 77 crore that covers about half-dozen trips. Bills for the chartered aircrafts for the remaining visits are still being processed. India has decided to allow up to 100% foreign direct investment (FDI) in multi-brand retail for food products, a move aimed at reducing wastage, helping farm diversification and encouraging global giants to produce locally rather than importing items. Finance minister Arun Jaitley announced this in the budget for 2016-17. Food processing minister Harsimrat Kaur Badal had written to Prime Minister Narendra Modi in January asking the government to have a relook at our FDI policy in multi-brand retail in food processing as a part of the Make in India initiative so that both farmers and consumers are benefitted and which will result in creation of critical infrastructure. India currently allows upto 51% FDI in multi-brand retail as part of policy notified by the previous UPA government. The BJP has been persistent in its opposition to allowing foreign giants to set up deep discount stores in India arguing that such mega supermarkets will endanger the livelihood of millions of neighbourhood mom-and-pop stores and street vendors. The party, which stormed to power at the Centre with a landslide victory in 2014, has not scrapped the existing policy although it has not actively encouraged FDI in multi-brand retail. European mega chain Tesco, which set up a joint venture with the Tata group in 2013, is the only foreign multi-brand retail outfit operating in India. Opposition parties led by the Congress on Monday dubbed the Union budget as a wasted opportunity with former prime minister Manmohan Singh saying the annual financial account was bereft of any big idea. Other opposition parties were equally harsh on Union finance minister Arun Jaitley as they trashed his budget for 2016-17 as a document without vision and direction. Its a nitpicking budget. There is no big idea except one ideathat the government plans to double farmers income in next five yearsI think that is an impossible dream, said Singh, an ace economist who ushered in Indias economic reforms as the finance minister in 1991. Singh, however, added that Jaitley was able to stick to the fiscal deficit target that was outlined by him. Congress vice-president Rahul Gandhi took a jibe at Jaitleys enhanced allocation for MGNREGA, reminding Prime Minister Narendra Modi that he had mocked the Congress for the past two years over the rural job scheme introduced by the UPA government. Gandhi said the budget was mere rhetoric which will fool neither farmers nor the poor of this country. Former finance minister P Chidambaram said the NDA government has followed its own brand of budget making, which is just housekeeping and accounting. One virtue of the budget is that it has left every section of people equally disappointed, he said. He said that the NDA governments political budget failed to address problems faced by three crucial sectors -- rural economy, private investments and exports. While CPM general secretary Sitaram Yechury said the budget will burden commoners due to a hike in indirect tax, CPIs D Raja said there is nothing spectacular in Jaitleys proposals. Outside (the) budget, they promised a lot to (the) corporate sector. Not evident now, Raja added. Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said the budget did not address the concerns of the middle class and distressed farmers reeling under huge debts and committing suicide. Questioning the black-money amnesty scheme, Kejriwal accused the government of cheating those who voted it to power. Kejriwal also claimed that loans of industrialists have been waived but a similar relief was not extended to farmers. letters@hindustantimes.com Finance minister Arun Jaitley on Monday sought to clear the air on the contentious retrospective taxation and has offered a one-time scheme of Dispute Resolution, through which companies such as Vodafone can settle their case by paying only the tax arrears, provided they agree to withdraw all case in India and outside. Presenting the Union Budget for 2016-17, Jaitley said, I had in my Budget speech of July 2014 assured that this government would not retrospectively create a fresh tax liability. Vodafone Group Plc spokesperson indicated that a response can be expected in an hour to the proposal offered by finance minister. The minister said the government is hopeful of a logical conclusion to cases pending in various courts and other legal fora relating to certain retrospective amendments undertaken to the Income-tax Act, 1961, through the Finance Act, 2012. I would like to reiterate that we are committed to provide a stable and predictable taxation regime. We will not resort to such amendments in future, said Jaitley. The government also announced setting up a high-level committee which would oversee any fresh case where the assessing officer proposes to assess or reassess the income in respect of indirect transfers by applying the retrospective amendment. In order to allay any fears of tax adventurism, this committee will now be chaired by the Revenue Secretary and consist of a Chairman, Central Board of Direct Taxes and an external expert. This committee will effectively oversee the implementation of assurances. On February 4, the income-tax department sought Rs 14,300 crore in tax dues from the UK-based Vodafone Group Plc and threatened to seize assets in case of non-payment, potentially derailing the goodwill generated by Prime Minister Narendra Modis promises of an investor-friendly environment. This was the second time the government has asked for the tax dues to be cleared. The income tax (I-T) departments pay-up or we seize your assets tone of a notice to the British telecom giant raised questions on whether the NDA governments top functionaries and bureaucracy were speaking in opposing languages. In January, Modi had assured foreign investors that Indias controversial retrospective tax that had unnerved businesses at home and abroad was a thing of the past a measure that would not be reintroduced by his or any other government. The assurance came on the first day of French President Francois Hollandes visit to India this year. Hollande was the chief guest for the Republic Day parade. The I-T department says the tax is due on Vodafone International Holdings BVs $11.1 billion acquisition of Hutchison Whampoas India telecom business in 2007 (about Rs 43,000 crore then). Vodafone India argued that no tax was due as the transaction was conducted offshore. But the tax departments contention is that capital gains were made on assets in India. The dispute is currently under international arbitration. Vodafones repeated run-ins with the taxman have again stoked fears about the countrys high-handedness in dealing with foreign investors. In 2012, India changed laws to impose taxes on older corporate deals such as Vodafones acquisition of Hutchison Whampoas telecom assets in India. Vodafone is fighting two cases in India. The first one involves a Rs 11,200 crore tax dispute that relates to 67% stake in Hutchison Essar it purchased in 2007 from the Hong Kong-based Hutchison Whampoas Indian arm. The second relates to the I-T department imposing tax on Rs 8,500 crore income of Vodafone India Services Pvt Ltd involving a transfer pricing case of 2007-08. The government has decided not to pursue international arbitration in this case. Finance minister Arun Jaitleys budget speech on Monday marked a shift in the NDA governments economic and political outlook from its belief in the trickle-down effect of big-ticket foreign and domestic private investments to reliance on rural India to drive the economy. The budget offered something to every section -- doubling farmers income by 2022, a thrust on rural infrastructure to create jobs, incentives for senior citizens and middle-class people living in rented houses and aspiring to own one. At an election rally in Bihar, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had talked about the plight of women who had to light chulhas to cook food for their children. He said he understood their pain as his mother was poor. On Monday, Jaitley brought succour to such mothers as he announced a mission to provide them LPG connections with government subsidy. Read: Budget 2016: Why dipping into your pension schemes will be taxing The finance minister made cars, especially in the luxury segment, SUVs and cigarettes more expensive, but spared bidis. While he increased the tax rebate for those earning up to Rs 5 lakh a year, he increased the surcharge on income tax for those with an annual income of over Rs 1 crore. If the finance minister had used the words farmers and rural 19 times in his budget speech last year, he used them 54 times on Monday. The obvious shift in the governments focus came against a backdrop of a year of electoral reverses, be it in the Delhi and Bihar assembly elections or in the civic polls in many BJP-ruled states. Coming as it did before the assembly elections in four states and one union territory in April-May, Budget 2016-17 is expected to help the BJP counter the Oppositions projection of the NDA government as anti-poor and a suit-boot ki sarkar. (Sajith Kumar) Seven states, including the electorally crucial state of Uttar Pradesh, Gujarat and Punjab, among others, will go to the polls next year. The Oppositions attempt to paint the NDA anti-farmer had gained steam after the governments unsuccessful attempt to bring new legislation amending the land acquisition bill. Read: Union Budget 2016: FM Arun Jaitley plays country music Jaitley reached out to the upwardly mobile sections among the Dalits and tribals, announcing a Start Up India Scheme to promote entrepreneurship among them and proposing to constitute a national SC and ST hub to provide them professional support. The allocation of Rs 100 crore to celebrate the birth centenary of Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyay should please the BJPs ideological patron, the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh. Jaitley drew applause from politicians from poll-bound Punjab as he set aside an initial sum of Rs 100 crore to celebrate the 350th birth anniversary of Guru Gobind Singh. Some analysts called it a political budget but Jaitley offered a sound economic rationale for this. Given that foreign markets were weak, he had to rely on domestic demand and Indian markets. Besides, as the recent agitation by the Jat community indicated, there is growing unrest among agrarian communities. Successive spells of a weak monsoon have made it worse for farmers. An economic slump has meant fewer new jobs, causing unrest among the youth as well. The finance minister obviously had all these factors in mind as he announced huge investments in rural infrastructure, especially the irrigation sector. To give farmers easier access to markets, a unified agricultural marketing platform will be dedicated to the nation next month. Jaitley announced a new FDI policy, which will help the food processing industry and farmers growing fruits and vegetables. Farmers will also be the biggest beneficiaries of the new health insurance scheme. Days before Jaitleys budget speech, a top Congress functionary had claimed credit for forcing the government to change its outlook towards farmers. Be that as it may, Budget 2016-17 promises a much-needed intervention by the government to address agrarian distress. Read: Here is the Oscar lovers guide to Jaitleys Union Budget for 2016-17 SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Are you confused that you were watching the Oscar awards ceremonies while you should have been following Indias Union Budget? Not to worry, we give here the Academy Award lovers guide to Finance Minister Arun Jaitleys budget for 2016/17. Spotlight: On farmers, rural jobs, organic farming, health insurance, crop insurance, social sector. (You see, assembly elections are approaching in Punjab, Assam and Tamil Nadu). The Bear Story: What markets seem to think is happening after the budget failed to provide a stimulus for industry. The Big Short: What bullish traders who expected Arun Jaitleys budget to kindle a boom wish they had taken to short-sell the Nifty or Sensex. Read more: Cars, cigarettes, eating out, travel get costlier The Revenant : Tax on cigarettes. Just when you thought it was dead and they could not tax smoking more. (Wait, are they trying to discourage intellectuals at JNU?) Room: For real estate. Rent allowances increased. First home buying made easier with concession. Real Estate Investment Trust will not be subject to dividend distribution tax (DDT) and there is a 100% tax deduction to undertakings for construction of affordable housing . Read more: Taxes, HRA and home loan: How Budget 2016 impacts you Mad Max: The Fury Road: Thats what you take when you realise the government does not tax you more officially but imposes cess after cess on everything from coal to diesel cars that will pinch you somewhere. The Hateful Eight: Those opposition party spokespeople ready with their views for the TV news channel debates on the budget. (So what if you cant hear their voices? Noises hai na?) Ex Machina: Foreign Direct Investment in asset reconstruction companies. In plain English, these are the guys who can buy up big chunks of the Rs 400,000 crore bad loans that Indias public sector banks are stuck with. You know the banks badly need an ex-Machina a special god from Greek dramas. (Wait, did someone say Rajnikanth can do it?) Bridge of Spies: All those tax officers trying to find out how they can hook businessmen who dont bite the bait of the new tax amnesty scheme. The Martian: What the GST Bill feels like in the budget rush. There have been few periods in recent history when economists and policymakers across the world were so unsure about which way the winds were blowing. China has slumped to its lowest growth in a quarter of a century, while most of the developed world appears to be falling off a cliff. Proponents of the India story will point to the fact that, regardless of the dispute over the new national income accounting formula, the country is set to grow at 7.6% this year and 7-7.75% in the coming year. However, it would be foolhardy to ignore the signals layered beneath the deceleration across the rest of the world. The incidence of such known and unknown unknowns makes policy making a difficult assignment. More so for finance minister Mr Arun Jaitley, who having steered the Indian economy relatively unscathed from the rubble piling up across the world, now has to lift the annual growth rate consistently above the 8% threshold needed to raise per capita income significantly and generate jobs. Given the peculiar flux that the economy is caught in meant that Mr Jaitley had to be unfussy in his ambitions and also take a realistic position in signaling the governments intent to walk the talk on sensitive issues. It is not surprising that the finance minister has sought to put villages firmly at the centre of governments development agenda. The rural economys importance in India cannot be overemphasised. About 58% of rural households engage in agriculture and within this, two-thirds are heavily reliant on it. India may be set to grow at a projected 7.6% in 2015-16, outpacing China, but a slowing rural economy can pose major hurdles in sustaining this turnaround. Alarmingly, rural distress -- marked by slowing wages, poor incomes and lower profits from farming -- now looks getting entrenched. READ: Jaitley shuns populism; focuses on investment, growth, jobs The allocation of Rs. 87,765 crore to the rural sector is as much an attempt at launching a direct assault on rural poverty as it is about shifting the focus of inclusive economics from handouts to jobs and asset creation. The schemes success would also have an attendant political corollary. It will help counter the critics suit boot ki sarkar charge that this government is pro-big business. This scheme, if executed well, could stand out as Mr Jaitleys and the NDA governments most visible signature initiative and potentially change the narrative of Indias development discourse in the years to come. The finance minister also has made out a compelling case for direct income transfers given the rising list of entitlements and a bloated subsidy bill. He has targeted the complete roll out of fuel and fertilizer subsidies better through cash handouts could be the fulcrum for future welfare programmes. This budgets other loud reformist statement is in the area of taxes. It is an irony that even 25 years after India started reforming its economy, the country remains a disjointed bundle of multiple markets. It continues to stare at further delays on rolling out a country-wide goods and services tax (GST) that would take India closer to being one unified market. On direct taxes, the finance minister set the ball rolling on reforming Indias corporate tax framework with an unambiguous message: lower rates of taxes will come bundled with fewer exemptions. In a way, it was a signal to businesses that the government has begun the clean up act of the distortions that have slipped into the system over decades. In the short to medium term, this could hurt many companies that have taken advantage of concessions. All told, Indian companies enjoyed a number of exemptions resulting in a potential revenue loss of more than Rs 68,000 crore in 2015-16. Mr Jaitley may well have marked the first big step in modernising Indias corporate tax system that has lower rates, fewer slabs and hardly any exceptions to the general tax rules. READ: Taxes, HRA and home loan: How Budget 2016 impacts you The Centres spending plans do not make for clean arithmetic though. Government expenditure this year has overshot short initial estimates by 10.8% in 2016-17 from the current year. This is even after factoring in more than Rs 65,000 crore jump in the wage bill to take care of higher salaries and pensions based on pay commission recommendations. Yet, the finance minister has penciled in a fiscal deficit target of 3.5% of GDP, making it clear that he would not deviate from the fiscal consolidation roadmap laid out last year. This ability to achieve this will critically depend on a bonanza of Rs 98,999 crore from the sale of radio frequencies for telecommunication, and the finance minister is keeping this tap open alongside the proceeds from divestment, which he expects will fetch Rs 56,000 crore. The finance minister has often said in the past that big reforms are those that to do not make headlines, but those that have a lasting impact on peoples lives. After all, growth is an economic concept, while equality is a sociological construct. This budget seeks to strike the right equilibrium between the two. Thai police arrested five Cambodian fishermen for a brutal attack on a group of French tourists in which two women were raped at knifepoint on an isolated Thai beach. It is the latest high profile assault on foreign visitors in Thailand, a country that is hugely reliant on its lucrative tourist trade. Investigators on Monday said four French holidaymakers were attacked late Saturday on Koh Kut (also known as Koh Kood), an underdeveloped island close to Cambodias western border with Thailand. Police said the attackers allegedly swam from their fishing boat to assault the group. Two injured male victims escaped to raise the alarm. When locals and police reached the scene the five attackers ran off but were swiftly apprehended, police major general Nopparat Rinthaphol told AFP. They (the attackers) all confessed and police have already brought them to do a re-enactment, he added, referring to a common police technique where the accused replay their crimes for investigators, usually in front of the media. Thailands Channel 7 television broadcast images of angry locals trying to attack the men during the re-enactment on Monday. The alleged assailants have all been charged with rape and violent assault while the victims have been taken to hospital on the mainland. The French embassy said it had sent officials to be with them. Thailand remains an enormously popular tourist destination with more than 28 million people visiting last year, a record high. The December to February period, when the tropical climate is cooler, is peak tourist season. But a number of grisly and violent crimes against foreigners has sullied the countrys reputation as a tourist haven. In September two Myanmar migrant workers were sentenced to death for the 2013 murder of two British backpackers, one of whom was raped, on the diving island of Koh Tao after a controversial investigation and trial. Thai authorities insist the two men are guilty. But the defence team believes the pair have been scapegoated by a local police force desperate to get results. Tourism remains one of the few bright spots in the Thai economy accounting for at least 10 percent of GDP. The junta-led country posted a lacklustre growth rate of just 2.8 percent last year, one of the lowest in the region with analysts saying much of that growth came from tourism. Given just how many people visit Thailand, the kingdom remains a relatively safe destination with violent attacks still rare. Instead it is the less headline-grabbing scourge of traffic accidents that claims far more tourist lives. In a 2015 study on global road safety the World Health Organization found Thailand had the worlds second most dangerous roads with 36.2 fatalities per 100,000 people. Only Libyas road fatality rate was higher. South Carolina may have delivered an awful outcome for Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders in his attempt to win the Democratic partys nomination for the US presidential elections, but his legion of young millennial supporters are plugging away at his campaign. Little Rock, Arkansas, may be Clinton country, with Bill having been the state Governor and much residual affection remaining for the one-time first couple, but for university students, the Bern as the 74-year-old Senator has been dubbed remains a firm favourite. A member of the University of Arkansas Young Democrats, who spoke on condition of anonymity since the group is neutral in the primary process, said students preferred Sanders over Hillary Clinton by a wide margin. He guessed that could be as high as nine out of 10. Among those is Hayden Cuffman, a 24-year-old student of political science at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. His message really resonates with my generation, especially when it comes to college debt, he said. Sanders has promised to make college education free. Despite suffering a series of losses in the primaries to Hillary Clinton, US Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders remains popular with young voters. (AFP Photo) I can say on campus and among people I know, there is overwhelming support for Sanders, Cuffman said, as he chuckled at the interesting phenomenon that one of the oldest candidates has a lock on the youngest supporters. Cuffman, though, was clear he would vote for Clinton if she were the eventual nominee. But Brittany Beckett-Harrison, also 24 and a student of information science, said, Honestly, I wont. She said she would opt for the Green Party candidate if Sanders wasnt the nominee. I would say Hillarys history is not in line with my type of feminism, she explained. In fact, even young African-Americans like 18-year-old Maya Underwood, who was at a rally for Clinton in Pine Bluff, wouldnt commit to her. But it isnt just the young turning out for Sanders. Among the most enthusiastic volunteers at Sanders Little Rock office is 82-year-old Joyce Boswell, who said: Our whole family is supporting him. Sanders chances in Arkansas are slim, but certainly substantial when it comes to youthful zest. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON An American student held in North Korea since early January was detained for trying to steal a propaganda slogan from his Pyongyang hotel and has confessed to severe crimes against the state, the Norths official media said on Monday. Otto Warmbier, 21, a student at the University of Virginia, was detained before boarding his flight to China over an unspecified incident at his hotel, his tour agency told Reuters in January. North Korea has a long history of detaining foreigners and has used jailed U.S. citizens in the past to exact high-profile visits from the United States, with which it has no formal diplomatic relations. I committed the crime of taking out a political slogan from the staff-only area of the Yanggakdo International Hotel, the Norths KCNA news agency quoted Warmbier as telling media in Pyongyang, the North Korean capital. CNN showed video of a sobbing Warmbier saying: I have made the worst mistake of my life, but please act to save me. Warmbier said a deaconess had offered him a used car worth $10,000 if he could present a U.S. church with the slogan as a trophy from North Korea, KCNA said. The acquaintance also said the church would pay his mother $200,000 if he was detained by the North and did not return, KCNA quoted Warmbier as saying. My crime is very severe and pre-planned, Warmbier was quoted as saying, adding that he was impressed by North Koreas humanitarian treatment of severe criminals like myself. Warmbiers family have not heard from him since his arrest, according to a statement provided to the Cavalier Daily, the University of Virginias student-run newspaper. He seems to be in good health, although we wont know for sure about his condition until we have a chance to speak with him, the statement said. Other Westerners detained in North Korea previously have confessed to crimes against the state. North Koreas state media said in January that Warmbier was caught committing a hostile act against the state, which it said was tolerated and manipulated by the U.S. government. The senior pastor at Friendship United Methodist Church in Wyoming, Ohio, told CNN that he did not know the person identified by Warmbier in the KCNA story as a deaconess there, and said Warmbier was not a member of the congregation. According to KCNA, Warmbier also said he was encouraged in his act by a member of the Z Society, an elite philanthropic organisation at the University of Virginia that he hoped to join. An official in the universitys communications office could not immediately be reached for comment. Isolated North Korea is expected to face tough new UN Security Council resolution following its nuclear test in January and a long-range rocket launch this month. Warmbier was on a five-day New Years tour of North Korea with a group of 20 and was delayed at immigration before being taken away by two airport officials, according to a tour operator that had sponsored the trip. While the vast majority of tourists to North Korea are from China, roughly 6,000 Westerners visit the country annually, though the United States and Canada advise against it. Most are adventure-seekers curious about life behind the last sliver of the iron curtain, and ignore critics who say their dollars prop up a repressive regime. If you didnt know already, President Obama is on a clean energy kick, weaving the industrys benefits into his final State of the Union address. Weve got to accelerate the transition away from dirty energy, he said. Instead, he praised the clean energy industry as being cost efficient and a creator of jobs: Solar is saving Americans tens of millions of dollars a year on their energy bills and employs more Americans than coal in jobs that pay better than average. He also noted, wind power is cheaper than dirty, conventional power. These remarks may bode well for solar stocks in the coming year. Goldman Sachs (GS) may have gotten a jump on those investments. Earlier this month the firm turned more bullish on First Solar (FSLR), predicting the stock will be a strong performer in 2016. It also lifted price targets on SunPower (SPWE) and 8point3 Energy Partners (CAFD), a limited partnership owned by First Solar and SunPower to own, operate and acquire solar energy generation projects. Elon Musks SolarCity (SCTY) is also favored by the firm despite its ongoing fued with Nevadas Republican Governor Brian Sandoval. The states Public Utilities Commission is cutting rebates to customers. As a result, the company is cutting 550 workers in the state and attempting to relocate affected employees to business-friendly states, according to a company press release. Earlier this week, Arch Coal filed Chapter 11 Bankruptcy, becoming the 49th coal company to do so. The filing could be viewed as another ominous warning for an industry that has been crippled by a rash of bankruptcies driven by tougher U.S. regulation and foreign competition. Continue Reading Below They are going to see their electric rates and all their fuel costs skyrocket, he said. Murray, who is a vocal critic of the presidents clean energy policies, added he has, destroyed the American power gridit is not only a case of cost, its also reliability. As for corporate America in general, in a departure from last years address, the president did not mention specific companies. In 2015, CVS (CVS), UPS (CVS), Alphabet-owned Google (GOOG), Tesla (TSLA) and eBay (EBAY) got a shout out. This year, he kept it sector specific with a nod to manufacturing and autos, noting, Our auto industry just had its best year ever. Manufacturing has created nearly 900,000 new jobs in the past six years. U.S. new-vehicle sales raced to 17.47 million in 2015, besting the previous high of 17.35 million set in 2000. This week the national average for a gallon of gas is $1.956 as tracked by AAA. The case of Mumtaz Qadri, the policeman who assassinated Governor Salmaan Taseer in 2011, has for long been seen as a litmus test for the Pakistan governments commitment to the drive against terrorism and religious extremism. Qadri surrendered immediately after pumping 28 bullets into Taseer outside a popular restaurant in the heart of Islamabad. It soon emerged he was assigned to Taseers security detail despite being declared a security risk by Punjab Police for his extreme religious views as far back as 2002. He called himself a slave of Prophet Mohammed and said he had killed the governor for campaigning to change Pakistans controversial blasphemy law and for standing up for Aasia Bibi, a Christian woman sentenced to death for allegedly insulting the Prophet. A file photograph shows Pakistani Punjab governor Salman Taseer (R) looking on as Pakistani Christian mother Asia Bibi (C) places a thumb impression on her appeal papers against a death sentence, after she was sentenced to hang after being found guilty of insulting the Prophet Mohammed. (AFP Photo) In many ways, Qadris case reflected how difficult it has been for Pakistans investigation agencies and judiciary to go after terrorists and religious extremists. The country has failed to prosecute anyone so far for high-profile terrorist attacks such as the 2007 assassination of former premier Benazir Bhutto and the 2008 suicide bombing of Marriott Hotel in Islamabad. Read: Pak hangs man who killed governor over call to reform blasphemy law The divide over the execution reflects the continuing support for the extremist groups that inspired Qadri and the split on the fundamental issue of eradicating terrorism and religious fundamentalism that has claimed tens of thousands of Pakistani lives. When Qadri first appeared in court to be charged with murder, he was showered with rose petals by supporters and lawyers. A former Chief Justice of the Lahore high court was among the lawyers who lined up to defend the self-confessed assassin. Thousands turned out for rallies organised by extremist groups in support of Qadri. Read: Movement grows for release of Taseer killer And nine months after Taseers murder, the judge who sentenced Qadri to death had to flee Pakistan after receiving threats from religious extremists. When the Islamabad high court resumed hearing Qadris appeal after a three-year gap last year, the judges had to clarify that the delay wasnt driven by fear. Taseer, probably best known in India as the father of writer Aatish Taseer, was often a critic of India, especially on social media, but few could doubt his credentials as a champion of a secular and liberal Pakistan. Two weeks after Taseers assassination, Shahbaz Bhatti, the only Christian minister in the federal government and a critic of the blasphemy law, was gunned down in Islamabad. And even after Taseers killing, his family was targeted by extremist groups his son Shahbaz Taseer was kidnapped in 2011 and still remains untraced. And in a country where Qadri was held up as a hero and an Ashiq-e-Rasool by many, some even believed he would eventually be let off despite the National Action Plan for terrorism framed by the government after the 2014 massacre in an army-run school in Peshawar that left nearly 150 dead. Read: Pakistan confers Nishan-e-Imtiaz on Salman Taseer Thus, it wasnt surprising that Qadris execution on Monday morning after his mercy petition as rejected by the President was followed hours later by protests in cities such as Islamabad, Lahore, Rawalpindi and Karachi, mostly orchestrated by hardline religious parties tapping into the religious sentiments of largely poor, uneducated masses in the countryside. There was support for Qadri from unexpected quarters too the Islamabad Bar Council boycotted courts to protest against the hanging. Yet social media platforms were abuzz with considerable backing for the Pakistan government, highlighting the fact that for the educated, middle-class religious violence had no place in society. Some even hailed the authorities for executing Qadri on February 29 so that his death couldnt be commemorated for the next four years. But the question remains: Could this finally mark a turning point in Pakistans fight against extremism? (The views expressed by the writer are personal. He tweets as @Rezhasan) SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Nigerias government has removed more than 20,000 non-existent workers from its payroll following an audit, leading to savings of 2.29 billion naira ($11.53 million) from its monthly wage bill, the Finance Ministry said on Sunday. Corruption and mismanagement have long stunted development in Africas biggest economy and top oil producer and are now exacerbating the impact of a sharp fall in global crude prices. The audit used biometric data and a bank verification number (BVN) to identify holders of bank accounts into which salaries were being paid. This showed the names of some civil servants receiving a salary did not correspond to the names linked to the bank accounts. In some cases individuals were also receiving salaries from multiple sources. The federal government has removed 23,846 non-existent workers from its payroll, said Festus Akanbi, special adviser to Finance Minister Kemi Adeosun who took office in November and soon after set up an efficiency unit to cut waste. Consequently the salary bill for February 2016 has reduced by 2.293 billion naira when compared to December 2015 when the BVN audit process commenced, said Akanbi, adding that those removed had been paid by ministries, departments and agencies. The ministry said it would now undertake periodic checks and utilise computer-assisted audit techniques and also introduce tougher monitoring of new entrants to the civil service to avert further abuse of the system. The administration of President Muhammadu Buhari, who took office last year vowing a crackdown on graft, said it wanted to cut the costs of running the government rather than slash jobs to help tackle Nigerias worst economic crisis in years. The ongoing exercise, which is part of the cost-saving and anti-corruption agenda of President Muhammadu Buharis administration, is key to funding the deficit in the 2016 budget, said Akanbi. The ministry, which said personnel costs represent more than 40 percent of total government expenditure, said it had so far checked the details of about 312,000 civil servants. Akanbi said the ministry was working with the financial crimes agency and the National Pension Commission to identify irregularities and recover salaries and pension contributions related to the deleted workers. Mumtaz Qadri, the self-confessed assassin of former Punjab governor Salmaan Taseer, was hanged at Rawalpindis Adiala Jail on Monday morning, sparking scattered protests in parts of Pakistan. Qadri, a former police commando, assassinated Taseer outside a popular restaurant in Islamabad on January 4, 2011 for supporting a Christian woman sentenced to death for blasphemy after a personal dispute. Taseer, a senior leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party, had said the controversial blasphemy law was being misused and should be reformed. Qadri was hanged at around 4.30 am, senior police officer Rizwan Omar Gondal said. As news of the hanging spread, supporters of hardline religious groups came out on the streets to protest. Traffic was briefly blocked on some roads of Islamabad and Karachi before police intervened. Aijaz Qadri of the Sunni Tehreek, a sectarian organisation which had launched a campaign to free Qadri, said his party was very angry with the death. Supporters of a religious political party hold signs of convicted killer Mumtaz Qadri during a demonstration against the sentence in Karachi, Pakistan. (Reuters File) We will express our sorrow and anger in the coming days, he told the media, adding he had asked shops and schools to be closed for the day as a mark of respect for Qadri. At most places, the call for a shutdown went unheeded. Late in 2011, an anti-terrorism court handed a double death sentence to Qadri for murder and terrorism. The sentence was upheld by the Supreme Court late last year. A review petition was also turned down by the top court on December 14 last year, leaving Qadri with the last option of filing a clemency appeal to the President. That plea was turned down last week. More than 100 people are charged with blasphemy each year in predominantly Muslim Pakistan, many of them Christians and other minorities. Conviction of blasphemy carries a death sentence, although no one has yet been executed for the charge. Controversy over the law has exposed the growing gap between religious conservatives and liberals in Pakistan, with hardline religious leaders considering Taseer a blasphemer himself for even criticising the law. Some lawyers showered Qadri with rose petals when he first appeared in court days after the killing. The judge who first convicted him was forced to flee the country after death threats. (With inputs from agencies) Less than 24 hours after a resounding victory in the South Carolina primary, Hillary Clinton was back on familiar ground. She was again the undisputed frontrunner for the Democratic partys nomination to contest the presidential elections, and back in Arkansas, a state where she spent 18 years, and where her daughter Chelsea was born. Clearly rejuvenated, Clinton was confident, if hoarse, as she spoke at a packed arena atrium at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, about 70 km from Little Rock, the state capital where her husband Bill had occupied the Governors mansion prior to becoming the 42nd President of the US. Watch | Hillary Clintons supporters join her for Arkansas rally She referred to her overwhelming primary win as she said, We had a great victory in South Carolina. And if African-American primary voters had been a major reason for her thumping margin of nearly 50 points over Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders, the venue in Arkansas a historically black university appealed to a similar constituency. Clintons theme for the evening was to break down the barriers, of race, gender, inequality. She appeared to be already looking beyond the primary season as the bulk of her attacks focused on the Republican field. That Clinton was reinvigorated was also evident from the fair amount of time she spent in the selfie scrum after her speech. Read: Clinton sails towards Super Tuesday after emphatic win in South Carolina She never mentioned any opponents by name except in one instance, when she indirectly criticised Bernie Sanders plan for free college education for all, which she said would be too expensive and on the taxpayers tab. She quipped, I do not want you to pay for Donald Trumps youngest child to go to college. But Trump was definitely her principal target, even as he appears to be emerging the most likely Republican candidate for President. Taking a swipe at the New York real estate mogul, Clinton said insulting Islam and Muslim-Americans was not only offensive, its dangerous. But she also attempted to woo young voters who have overwhelmingly sided with Sanders, particularly on the issue of college debt, as she promised to make college affordable again. After close contests in Iowa and Nevada, and a huge defeat to Sanders in New Hampshire, the relief among Clintons supporters after South Carolina was palpable. Classie Green, an African-American community worker, said, South Carolina was a boost. That, she said, added to the excitement of the evening. Hillary Clinton supporter Classie Green at a rally in Pine Bluff on Sunday. (Anirudh Bhattacharyya/HT Photo) Randall Allen, a gay activist who travelled to Pine Bluff from Russellville for the rally, echoed that: Honestly, it put a smile on my face and extra pep in my step. He felt the win in South Carolina put Clinton on cruise control heading into Super Tuesday on March 1, when several states, including Arkansas, hold their primaries. Read: No barrier too big: Clinton takes South Carolina primary by a storm SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON The death toll has risen to 38 after an IS suicide bomber struck an Iraqi funeral Monday, wounding dozens in a crowded reception room. A local Shiite militia leader is among the dead in a town north of Baghdad that saw a wave of revenge attacks after a similar bombing in January. Another 58 people were wounded in the bombing in Muqdadiyah, about 60 miles (90 kilometers) north of the capital, according to security and hospital officials. The dead included a local commander in Asaib Ahl al-Haq, a powerful Shiite militia that is part of the state-sanctioned Popular Mobilization Forces, responsible for much of the security in the area. The attacker was wearing a suicide vest and entered the funeral hall among mourners lining up to pay their respects to the militia leader, according to a local security official. The Islamic State group bombed a cafe frequented by militiamen in Muqdadiyah in January, killing at least 32 people and triggering a wave of revenge attacks on Sunni mosques and civilians. The New York-based Human Rights Watch blamed the reprisal attacks on powerful militias within the Popular Mobilization Forces. The Islamic State group also claimed responsibility for Mondays attack in a statement posted online. On Sunday a double bombing in Baghdad claimed by the IS group killed 73 people. The initial blast on Sunday ripped through a crowded market in the Shiite district of Sadr City. A suicide bomber then targeted the crowd that gathered to help the victims. Two police officials said 112 people remain hospitalized. All officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they were not authorized to talk to the media. Sundays bombings marked the deadliest single attack in the Iraqi capital in months, fueling fears that the IS group is resorting to mass attacks on civilians as it suffers battlefield setbacks. IS still controls much of northern and western Iraq, but has been driven back in recent months. The government recently declared the western city of Ramadi fully liberated. IS had captured the city last year. Britain is again looking at India to help fill thousands of vacancies of doctors and nurses in the National Health Service (NHS), but is likely to find less enthusiasm in the recruitment drive due to growing opportunities in Indias private health sector. The British Association of Physicians of Indian Origin (Bapio) cautioned Indian doctors not to be lured by false hopes extended by locum agencies, and offered them advice on job offers and related aspects about taking up employment in the NHS. We dont want them (Indian doctors) to be treated as second class citizens, or be exploited by locum agencies. India also needs doctors; we dont want to encourage brain drain, Ramesh Mehta, Bapio president, told Hindustan Times. Indian doctors have historically trained and worked in Britain, and their work has been much valued but recent years have seen a drop in their numbers moving here and registering with the regulator of the General Medical Council (GMC), mainly due to visa restrictions. New figures revealed by BBC on Monday, based on a Freedom of Information request, indicate two-thirds of NHS trusts and health boards are actively trying to recruit doctors and nurses in countries such as India and the Philippines to fill tens of thousands of posts. Critics allege poor workforce planning for the situation. However, several Indian doctors told Hindustan Times that NHS recruitment consultants looking at India may not find much enthusiasm now, given the Indias growing private health sector, Britains immigration restrictions and perceptions of unfair treatment at work in the NHS. Britain has long been the first port of call for Indian doctors seeking postgraduate qualifications and experience of working in the NHS. From a trickle in the 1950s, large numbers of Indian doctors came here in the 1970s and the early 2000s. However, as latest GMC figures indicate, there has been a sharp drop in the number of Indian doctors from 3,640 in 2004 to 534 in 2015. Bapio has been helping NHS trusts recruit doctors in India. Bapio president Mehta said: There are lots of opportunities in the private health sector in India now. New visa rules that restrict stay of overseas doctors here to only two years has added to the drop. He added: Another major issue is the way Indian doctors are treated. News travels fast these days. The system is not fair, there are many cases of Indian doctors facing discrimination. Together, these factors are putting off Indian doctors from coming here. Madhur Rao, who moved to Pune after a long medical career in Britain, said several of his colleagues had returned or were considering doing so, mainly due to better career prospects, salaries that are better or equal to those in the NHS, and the prospect of returning to look after parents. Rao said: It is a win-win situation; salaries in India are exceedingly good now. The quality of life is better in India. There are also Indian doctors who dont want their children to grow up in Britain, and return after some training experience in Britain. Corporate hospitals in India now offer treatment for complex procedures for which people in the past travelled abroad, as the hospitals are willing to invest in the latest technology from across the world, Rao added. An Indian-origin NHS consultant said: Indian private hospitals prefer recruiting Indian doctors from UK because of their experience of working in well-equipped hospitals in western countries. Indian well-to-do patients seem to prefer western qualified doctors. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON Karan Bilimoria, who arrived as a student from India in the 1980s, went on to establish a successful beer brand and now sits in the House of Lords, has criticised the David Cameron governments student visa policy that, he believes, is creating a rod for their own back. One of the key speakers in a debate on student immigration, Bilimoria demanded that the government remove students from immigration figures as in the US, Canada and Australia since most of them leave after their studies. Excluding students from overall immigration statistics has been a major demand by the higher education sector. Cameron and chancellor George Osborne are said to be open to the idea, but reportedly face opposition from Home secretary Theresa May. There has been a major fall in the number of Indian students coming to UK universities in recent years. Closing the post-study work visa in 2012 was hugely damaging, Bilimoria said. The Cameron government has been at pains to attract India students, saying there is no cap on the numbers. He said: Suu Kyi, Bill Clinton, Desmond Tutu and Mahatma Gandhi all studied at UK universities...(Yet) the government continue to classify international students as immigrants when calculating the net immigration figures, as well as having a target to reduce net immigration to fewer than 100,000. Then, hypocritically, the government say that there are no limits to international students. Logically, there is no way the government will meet their targets unless they reduce international student numbersThe government are unnecessarily creating a rod for their own back, he added. Several members of the House of Lords pressed the government to exclude students from immigration figures, but did not get any assurance, partly because figures suggested that a large number of students did not return to their home countries after their courses. SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON A dad and son in California are looking forward to celebrating their birthdays Monday, Feb. 29. Officially, the dad is turning 15 year sold, while the son is turning 5, and the chances of having both parent and child born on a Leap Year were slim. Fred Shekoufeh from Iran, who is 60 in the normal calendar, didn't think he had a special birthdate until he immigrated to the United States in 1979 and an immigration official commented about it. He admits that the date is confusing, but he has since celebrated his birthday "when he can," according to Huffington Post. In 1996, his former wife went into labor as he was celebrating his 10th birthday at the hospital. "When the doctor found that out, she said, "I will try to bring that baby out so it can share your birthday," he said. Eric Shekoufeh, now 20 and studying in UCLA, finds his unique bond with his dad "pretty incredible," but he does contend with a lot of jokes. When he turned "4" in 2012, he got his student license at the California DMV. "Everyone and their mother made a joke about me turning four, and that four-year-olds shouldn't be able to drive cars. Well, evidently I could," he said. "Legally, I should be able to drink," he added. "But I'm expecting a bouncer to look at my license and tell me it's a fake." Leap Year happens every four years when an extra day is added to the Gregorian calendar. On this year, the earth orbits around the sun at 365.2422 days and the added day is important lest the calendar goes off by five hours, 48 minutes, 45 seconds every year, according to the Almanac. The chances of a parent and child celebrating the same Leap Year birthday is one in 2.1 million, according to Time. Meanwhile, some Leap Year babies celebrate two birthdays on a normal calendar year, stretching this between Feb. 28 and March 1. However, they're likely to do a very special celebration on their actual birthday this year. "I normally celebrate my leap year birthdays by having a party in the style of the age that I'm turning. In this case, 8. Last time, we had a bouncy castle with lawn games, balloons and streamers and all behaved like we were 7 years old," said Peter Cambpell via NPR. "This year, since I'll be turning 6, I'm having a '90s-themed party at a roller rink. You have to go big because you only get a birthday every four years," said Emily Clayton in the same report. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A joint force from Cameroon and Nigeria managed to free hundreds of hostages held by Boko Haram. The government forces also liberated the Nigerian town of Kumshe, killing about 100 militants in the process, Gen. Jacob Kodji told The Associated Press. "Our boys are still on the field with Nigerian soldiers and have received instructions to continue raids on all Boko Haram border villages until we defeat them," said Kodji, reports The Associated Press. "Two Cameroonian soldiers were killed [during the operation] by an accidental mine explosion. Five other soldiers were wounded," read a statement from Communications Minister Issa Tchiroma Bakary, reports Al Jazeera. Among the hostages freed were 10 Chinese construction workers who had been kidnapped in May from Waza, and the wife of a vice prime minister, who had been kidnapped along with 17 others from her residence in the border town of Kolofata. Boko Haram is a staunch supporter of the Islamic State group and has been active in Chad, Cameroon, Nigeria and Niger. Boko Haram has killed more than 20,000 people and displaced 2.8 million in West Africa, according to the United Nations and Amnesty International. Boko Haram is the "most deadly terror group in the world," according to The Global Terrorism Index, an annual report by the New York City-based Institute for Economics and Peace, Children have been the worst victims of Boko Haram, with many suffering sexual abuse, being forced into marriage, kidnapped or killed. "A lot of parents in the northeast would not send their children to school because they'd be afraid of what would happen," said Hafsat Maina Muhammed, executive director of the Choice for Peace Gender and Development, an NGO in Damaturu, to Al Jazeera. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Mans capacity for justice makes Democracy Possible, but Mans Inclination to INJUSTICE makes Democracy NECESSARYReinhold Nie-Uhir The Federal Troops murdered Innocent men, women and children in their thousands at Asaba. Asaba lost in few months university graduates, PhD holders among them were Permanent secretaries, medical doctors, lawyers, teachers, professionals, clergy men and missionaries. It remains the only war and genocide of such magnitude without a monument of remembranceUnited Nations Observer, Canadian M.P, Stephen Lewis, London Guardian, October 11, 1968. The Federal Troops assumed that the people of Asaba were Igbos and gave support to OPERATION TOUCH. The people of Asaba suffered more than any other southern tribe in terms of human and material losses. Chief Tayo Akpati, former secretary, petroleum trust fund, The Guardian, July 17, 1997. Benin was the capital of the mid-western states with a high concentration of Asaba-born technocrats, bureaucrats, and professionals who met their untimely end at the hands of federal troops and other accomplicesthere appeared a fleeting period of lunacy in which mid-westerners gladly identified Ahaba people to be shot down by federal troops on the so called liberation day in Benin. It was the first Black On Black genocide in post independence Africa . Midwest Solicitor General, Giwa Amu, The Nigerian Obsrever, March 16, 1983. The civil war was one of the worst and under reported event in Nigerian History, thanks to the PATRIOTISM of the Nigerian Journalists..the result of the massacres for most part were not to happen since there was a political consensus between the press and the politicians led by Chief Anthony Enahoro.a man who was part of both, He was the Nigerian war time minister of information. Lewis Obi, African Concord , Cover Story, The Asaba Massacre, August 4, 1997 The Ahaba Man became the most vulnerable Nigerian. It required ten positive acts of loyalty to one of the rest of the nation to prove themselves human being. Ever since the Mid-western invasion, they (Ahaba People) had been hounded, killed and considered the greatest security risks than the rest Igbos. Noble Laureate, Prof. Wole Soyinka, The Man Died. Washington state law enforcement officials are investigating the death of actress Salma Hayek's dog after he was found shot dead on her ranch, located approximately 70 miles south of Seattle, according to The Associated Press. Deputy Lt. Cliff Ziesemer from the Thurston County Sheriff's office said that the ranch's caretaker found the dog's dead body and contacted the authorities. The pooch had been shot by a pellet gun, which struck an artery, causing the dog to bleed to death internally. Hayek took to Instagram on Friday to mourn the death of her beloved pet, Mozart. "I haven't posted for a week as I been mourning the death of my dog, Mozart who I personally delivered out of his mother's womb," she captioned a photo of her German shepherd mix. "He was found dead in my ranch last Friday with a shot close to his heart." "I am hoping that the Washington State authorities do justice to this wonderful dog whom in 9 years never bit or attacked anyone," she added. "He loved his territory and never strayed away...he was the most loving and loyal companion. He didn't deserve a slow and painful death. #doglover #animalrights #dog #dogoftheday #rip #delivery #washingtonstateauthorities." The "Frida" actress is a known animal lover, and her ranch houses horses, alpacas, parrots and other animals, according to E!. A photo posted by Salma Hayek Pinault (@salmahayek) on Feb 26, 2016 at 1:02pm PST @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. The truce in Syria in force since midnight on Feb. 27, has already been marred by airstrikes and artillery attacks. Airstrikes hit insurgent-held areas in the provinces of Aleppo, Hama and Idlib, according to videos posted online by insurgent groups and NGOs. They were attributed to the Syrian government or its Russian allies, reports the New York Times. Trading charges, Russian officials claimed nine violations by opposition groups and Turkish allies in the first 24 hours of the truce, including shelling attacks on Damascus and Turkish artillery fire across into Tal Abyad, reports the New York Times. "We have violations here and there, but in general it is a lot better than before and people are comfortable," said Salem al-Meslet, spokesman for the Saudi-backed High Negotiations Committee which wants the truce to "last forever" and said that it was the "responsibility of the United States to stop any violations," reports the AFP. Speaking to CNN, Meslet detailed that the Syrian regime had committed 15 violations. "We worry (Syrian President Bashar al-Assad) will increase the violations if no one says anything to him," Meslet said, according to CNN. The High Negations Committee is appraising the United Nations and members of the International Syria Support Group - except for Russia and Iran -in writing, about the cease fire violations. "Setbacks are inevitable. Even under the best of circumstances, we don't expect the violence to end immediately. In fact, we are certain that there will continue to be fighting, in part because of organisations like ISIL (Islamic State) and Al-Nusra," a senior U.S. administration official told the AFP. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Mark Ruffalo participated in a priest sexual abuse protest outside the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels with his "Spotlight" team, including director/co-writer Tom McCarthy and co-writer Josh Singer on Sunday hours before "Spotlight" won the Best Picture award at the 2016 Oscars, according to The Hollywood Reporter. They stood in support with members of SNAP (Survivors Network of Those Abused by Priests) in downtown Los Angeles, calling for the names of the abusers to be released. "I'm here to stand with the survivors and the victims and the people we've lost from Catholic priest childhood sex abuse," Ruffalo told protesters, according to the Los Angeles Times. Ruffalo was nominated at the Oscars for Best Supporting Actor for his performance in "Spotlight," a film inspired by the true story of a team of Boston Globe journalists who uncover the Catholic church's child sexual abuse scandal involving priests and its cover-up. "Standing with the survivors of Priest sexual abuse!" Ruffalo wrote on Twitter. "Just got back from a protest with SNAP Priest Sexual Abuse Survivors," the 48-year-old actor captioned an Instagram picture of a flier from the protest. Standing with the survivors of Priest sexual abuse! https://t.co/xfV9bV5m3q Mark Ruffalo (@MarkRuffalo) February 28, 2016 @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Three British tourists exploring the jungles of Vietnam died after falling off a waterfall and getting swept away outside of Dalat, a city in Vietnam's central highlands, according to the Associated Press. The tragic incident happened Friday when 25-year-old former Navy sailor Christian Sloan, 24-year-old Beth Anderson and 19-year-old Izzy Squire allegedly did not follow the instructions of tour guide Dang Van Sy, who warned them to stay away from one of the whirlpools near the Datanla falls, which the trio was exploring. "I know that place is dangerous so I shouted to ask them to stay away from that. But they ignored me, jumping down to the stream, still with their life vests. Then the man walked back to the women who were with him, but he slipped into the whirlpool and was immediately swept away. But a moment later, the women, too, were swept away," he said, according to the Daily Mail. The Datanla Falls are a popular destination for tourists in the area, known as a place where adventure-seekers could engage in a number of exciting and thrilling activities, including rappelling, water sliding and free jumping. After being recovered by Vietnamese rescuers, the body of the three Brits were transported to Ho Chi Minh City, reported Today Online. The British embassy in Hanoi expressed its condolences to the family of the three tourists. The embassy also assured that it would be providing support to the trio's families. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A Ku Klux Klan rally in Anaheim, Calif., to protest "illegal immigration and Muslims" saw three people stabbed and 13 arrested on Feb. 27. According to local police officials, some members of the Klan had announced that they would be holding a rally at Pearson Park at 1:30 p.m. Protestors thronged the venue by 11 a.m. Around noon, a black SUV drove up with about six people on board. The fights broke out the moment the KKK members stepped out of their vehicle. "All hell broke loose. I thought they were going to stomp these Klansmen to death," said witness Brian Levin, director of California State University, San Bernardino's Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism, according to the Associated Press. "There were no police officers here when this started happening. It was the longest few minutes between when the SUV was attacked and when the police responded in droves. I think the police response saved their lives. They would have been torn limb from limb," Levin added, according to the Los Angeles Times. "As soon as they got out of their vehicle, immediately they were attacked by counter-protesters and this caused a melee down the block," said Daron Wyatt, Anaheim Police Sergeant, according to Reuters. The Klan members tried to defend themselves as best as they could. "They started pulling out weapons. One of them had the flag, the American flag, with the pointed top and I think that's what got my friend. It's a serious wound. It wasn't like the blood was dripping out. It gushed out of him," said Martin Buenorostro, whose friend, identified as "FuzzBuzz," was wounded when one of the Klan members used a flagpole to push away members of the crowd, reports the Los Angeles Times. Six Klan members and seven protesters were arrested, according to Wyatt, reports the Los Angeles Times. The Klan has recently been in the news with one-time grand wizard David Duke endorsing Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump, as previously reported by HNGN. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Egyptian lawmaker Tawfik Okasha knew exactly what he was doing. Despite being aware of his countrymen's stance regarding the nation's ties with Israel, he, nonetheless, invited Israeli ambassador Haim Koren to dinner at his house last week, according to Reuters. What he did not expect, however, was that he would be facing retribution Sunday in the form of a shoe. Okasha's invitation, which was broadcast on national television, caused much rage across Egypt, mainly due to the fact that most Egyptians still carry a significant dislike for their Jewish neighbors. Despite the unpopularity of his invitation, Okasha still went through with the dinner, where he and the ambassador talked about a number of pertinent issues, reported the Jerusalem Press. During Sunday's session, a number of Okasha's colleagues showed their outrage at the event, with several lawmakers demanding that the daring Okasha be dismissed or suspended for his actions. However, none of the lawmakers were as angry as MP Kamal Ahmed, who, at some point during the session, removed his shoe and smacked Okasha with it. The attack, and the ensuing chaos, ultimately prompted the speaker of the parliament to throw both Ahmed and Okasha out of the session, reported Breaking Israel News. "I want to shoot him. What I did reflects the nation's opinion. I did what I did because I am an MP and a representative of the people. Every time I see him, I'll hit him with a shoe," Ahmed later said. Ever defiant, Okasha stated his rebuttal over his colleagues' rage, stating that he has done nothing wrong considering that Egypt and Israel have a full diplomatic relationship. "I acknowledge the State of Israel, and all the agreements between the countries are in line with my views," he said. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Mexico's National Coordination of Civil Protection issued an alert for five states in Mexico on Sunday after it was notified about the theft of a truck carrying potentially dangerous radioactive material, marking the fourth instance of radioactive material theft in Mexico since 2013. The organization was notified about the theft by San Juan del Rio-based Industrial Maintenance Center, the owners of the radioactive material, which had reportedly gone missing in an undisclosed location, according to AFP. The missing material in question was identified as irdium-192, which is used in industrial radiography when placed inside the appropriate device. Such devices are used by companies to test oil pipelines, for example, for structural problems. Iridium-192 can cause burns and permanent injuries who have been in contact with it for up to several hours. It can even lead to death if exposed to the material for long enough, according to Stratfor. Issuing a statement to the public about the theft, the ministry warned that the material "can be dangerous for people if not handled safely" and could cause "permanent or serious injury to a person who is handling or in contact with it for a short time." In addition, they placed the states of Queretaro, Hidalgo, Guanajuato, San Luis Potosi and Michoacan on alert. Officials advised anyone in those five states in particular, to be on the lookout for the stolen material and if they do, to notify officials immediately. Furthermore, they warned civilians to not go within a 100-foot perimeter of the material to avoid radiation poisoning. Theft of radioactive material is actually somewhat common in Mexico, and this incident marks the fourth time since 2013 that such a theft has occurred. The last time it happened was in April 2015, when a container carrying the same radioactive material was stolen from a vehicle in the Tabasco state, near the Mexican border with Guatemala, only to be recovered a week later, according to CBS News. Unlike other a similar incident that occurred in Iraq in November, officials have yet to declare the theft of the material an indicator of a potential terrorist threat, Reuters reported. Rather, they note that in such cases in Mexico, the thieves are mostly interested in other parts of their haul and are apparently unaware of the presence of the radioactive material. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Ashley Guindon, a rookie cop from Virginia who had been sworn in on Friday, was killed and two others were wounded while responding to a report about a fatal domestic dispute, the Prince William County Police Department revealed late Saturday. Guindon and the two other officers, Jesse Hempen, 31, an eight-year veteran of the force, and David McKeown, 33, a 10-year-veteran, had received a call about a domestic violence call in Woodbridge around 5:30 p.m. on Saturday evening, reported CBS News. The three had reportedly approached the front door and were soon confronted by the suspect, Army Staff Sgt. Ronald Hamilton, 32, who opened fire on them. It's unclear how the situation played out from there, but it resulted in all three officers being shot and ending up needing to be airlifted to Fairfax INOVA Hospital to be treated for their injuries. It was there that Guinton succumbed to her injuries. The other two officers remained in serious condition but are expected to recover. The death of any police officer is always a tragic moment, but Guindon's was particularly tragic since it was noted that she had been sworn in on Friday and was only an hour and a half into her first shift when she was gunned down, according to Fox's Charlotte affiliate WJZY-TV. Issuing a statement about the shooting, Police Chief Stephan Hudson said at a news conference Sunday: "We were struck by her passion to do this job. She did share with us when we rehired her that she felt like she wanted to do this job. She couldn't get it out of her blood. She clearly had a passion to serve others in a way that went beyond herself." In the meantime, Hamilton, an Army staff sergeant assigned to the Pentagon, is being held in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges including first-degree murder for the death of his wife Crystal Hamilton, capital murder of a police officer, two counts of malicious wounding of a police officer and two counts of use of a firearm in commission of a felony, according to Fox 5 D.C.. He is expected to be arraigned Monday morning. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. A riot broke out at the Greece-Macedonia border Monday when hundreds of refugees fleeing their situation in the Middle East smashed down a barbed wire security fence. The incident comes as Greece begins to feel the effects of new migration restrictions that were put in place by various Balkan countries last week. The riot was focused at a border camp near the Greek village of Idomeni on the Macedonian border, the main transit point for refugees travelling toward western Europe, reported al-Jazeera. Reports suggest the riot occurred after Macedonia allowed 300 Syrians and Iraqis to cross before resealing the gate, and rumors began to surface that the border crossing was opening once more. The news brought hundreds rushing to the gates, only to find that it would remain closed. The revelation was received poorly among the stranded refugees who began to yell "Open the borders!" as a group of men used a metal pole to ram through the gate, while authorities used tear gass and rubber bullets to keep them at bay, according to AFP. Many were hurt during the clash, and Antonis Rigas, a field coordinator for Doctors Without Borders in Idomeni, said 23 people were injured, 15 suffered from respiratory issues due to the tear gas, seven cut themselves on the barbed wire and one person was grazed by a rubber bullet. The incident comes several days after Austria hosted a meeting in Vienna with representatives from Slovenia, Croatia, Serbia and Macedonia where they agreed to tighten border controls, according to CNN. Greece, which wasn't invited to meeting, along with various experts, condemned the meeting as well as the decision, arguing that not only does the decision "undermine the foundations and the process of European unification" but would also place the majority of the burden of the ongoing migrant crisis on Greece, which already has to worry about the unabated flow of migrants coming there from Turkey. The expected results have played out exactly as Greece feared. For example, the Idomeni border camp was made to house 2,000-3,000 migrants, however under current conditions, it holds more than 7,000 instead. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Police and protesters clashed in Salt Lake City after a teenager was shot by police, according to Reuters. Abdi Mohamed, 17, is in critical condition after being shot Saturday night by officers who believed he was carrying a weapon. The Salt Lake City Police Department reported that officers saw two people attacking another person with metal objects Saturday night and ordered them to drop their weapons. Mohamed allegedly failed to obey and "continued to advance on the victim and was shot by officers" twice in the torso, according to a statement released by the department. Police later identified the suspected weapon as a broomstick, according to the Associated Press. Witness Selam Mohammad told reporters that Mohamed had dropped the stick when police asked, but was shot regardless, according to the Washington Post. "The police said 'drop it' once, then they shot him four times," said Mohammad. "We were trying to break it up before the police even came, but the police ran in on foot and pulled their guns out already." Immediately after the shooting took place, people in the street began shouting at police and throwing projectiles such as rocks and bottles, leading to a request for backup of approximately 100 officers. Detective Ken Hanson claimed that police cleared the area without the use of riot lines or tear gas, and four people were arrested for civil disorder. "The use of force by law enforcement against the public can tear at the delicate balance of trust between both sides and must be taken extremely seriously," Mayor Jackie Biskupski said in a statement released yesterday. "These incidents create a number of unanswered questions in the short term, and justice requires we work together in good faith to find answers." Demonstrations and protests are being planned by various groups for tonight, including a group called Utah Against Police Brutality, who called for protests last night in a Facebook post. The shooting is likely to add fuel to an already-strained relationship between local citizens and police, with the Washington Post reporting that Mohamed is the 161st person to be shot by police this year. @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas, known for being notoriously silent while on the bench, stunned nearly everyone in the courtroom Monday after he asked several questions during arguments for the first time in a decade. The rare event marked the second week the court has heard arguments since the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, according to NBC Washington, and was a week after the 10-year anniversary of the last time Thomas asked a question during oral arguments. The case that inspired Thomas to speak was Voisine v. United States, which was centered on a ban on gun ownership for domestic violence offenders, specifically, whether a conviction for "reckless" domestic assault counts as a federal "misdemeanor crime of domestic violence," which would bar an offender from firearms possession under federal law. The questions he asked were made to government attorney Ilana H. Eisenstein, who had already answered a barrage of questions from other justices only to be caught off guard when Thomas jumped in. However, it wasn't just Eisenstein who was caught off guard, almost everyone except for the other justices was in shock, according to the Seattle Times. "Everyone leaned in disbelieving," said Slate's Dahlia Lithwick who was in the Court room. "The colloquy went back and forth several times with Thomas pressing the Assistant Solicitor General." Courtroom reporters noted there was a tense moment, which some say felt like five minutes, when Thomas pushed Eisenstein to give another example where a misdemeanor conviction suspends a constitutional right. While Thomas wasn't vocal on the bench, he was certainly vocal off of it and he offered a variety of reasons throughout the years for his silence when some accused him of ignoring his duties, according to CNN. "We have a lifetime to go back in chambers and to argue with each other," Thomas said in 2013 according to the Associated Press. He noted that lawyers only have 30 minutes to argue and should be able to use all of their allotted time to do so. "They should argue. That's a part of the process." @ 2022 HNGN, All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. H ouse prices in London have grown nearly 14 per cent, with the average property worth three times that of houses in the rest of the country. An average home in the capital costs 530,409, compared to just 191,812 for an average property in England and Wales. Figures released by the Land Registry house price index reveal annual growth in London of 13.9 per cent. Average house prices across Britain in February 2016 1 /13 Average house prices across Britain in February 2016 Wales Average house price: 125,665 Annual change: 6.8% Monthly change: 3.7% Rex London Average house price: 530,409 Annual change: 13.9% Monthly change: 2.8% Rex The South East Average house price: 266,603 Annual change: 10.7% Monthly change: 2.2% Rex West Midlands Average house price: 144,185 Annual change: 6.6% Monthly change: 1.7% Rex South West Average house price: 198,288 Annual change: 6.2% Monthly change: 1.6% Rex East Midlands Average house price: 138,825 Annual change: 4.4% Monthly change: 1.1% Rex East Average house price: 217,341 Annual change: 8.9% Monthly change: 0.7% Rex Yorkshire and The Humber Average house price: 124,949 Annual change: 3.7% Monthly change: 0.6% Rex The North East Average property price: 97,117 Annual change: 0.2% Monthly change: -1.6% Rex The North West Average house price: 114,504 Annual change: 2.1% Monthly change: -0.4% Image: REX Rex The South East also performed strongly, with growth of 10.7 per cent since last year and prices averaging 266,603. Across the South West of England, prices rose 6.2 per cent this year to 198,288, with Bristol showing double the average growth with a 12 per cent increase to 220,532. Bristol, which borders Somerset and Gloucestershire, came seventh on Rightmoves list of fastest-selling property hotspots outside London, published this week, and has been hailed by estate agents as the next Cambridge for the rate at which property is changing hands. The Land Registry figures also reveals the Crossrail effect, with house prices in Reading outstripping the average in the South East, rising 16.1 per cent to 270,146. When the Crossrail line arrives in Reading in 2018 it will slash journey times to London, making it an attractive investment for commuters. House prices in Reading are benefiting from the Crossrail effect, with growth of 16.1 per cent / Daniel Lynch The North East showed the smallest price increase of just 0.2 per cent to 114,504, with prices in Sunderland falling by 3.2 per cent. However, Newcastle upon Tyne had the highest monthly price rise of all metropolitan districts in the region, with an increase in January of 2.1 per cent to 123,673. Annually, prices in the North West grew by 2.1 per cent to 114,504, with Manchester achieving buoyant growth of 5.6 per cent to 103,834. The Land Registry records 6.8 per cent annual growth in property prices in Wales, with Cardiff, Swansea and Wrexham growing in line with the average. If a prescription gave you diarrhea or made you vomit, you might complain. But until well into the twentieth century, the average American looked on a good "purge" as a way to expel disease. Physicians took pride in their cathartics, and when patients discussed a doctor's skill, they gave high marks for the violence of his purges. Nowadays Americans frown upon purging, but we seem to expect a medicine. It should be one only a doctor can prescribe; over-the-counter drugs don't count. Pills are good, but an injection is better. Of course, modern drugs often work, but this is a minor matter compared to the deep human desire that a doctor do something. I apologize if this sounds insulting; I suspect most of you will deny expecting a drug. You want whatever will help. If nothing will help, you want to know. Such sensible patients do appear, but no day passes when I don't see disappointment in a patient's eyes when he or she realizes I don't plan to "give them something." Doctors genuinely want to help you, and we feel bad when we can't. We also feel bad when we do our best, and it's obvious a patient doesn't feel "helped." So many of us add a prescription to convince you that we're doing what a proper doctor should do. Mike Oppenheim It looks like you've reached a page that doesnt exist (anymore). Please use the navigation or search above to find content on Hospitality Net. Go back to home Georges Ojeil has been appointed as the new General Manager of Le Gray, Beirut. He joins with an extensive background in the hospitality industry having held senior management positions at a number of properties in Lebanon including as Food and Beverage Manager and Executive Assistant Manager. Ojeil was previously appointed Corporate Director of Food and Beverage for Le Royal Hotels & Resorts where he oversaw Le Royal Hammamet, Le Royal Luxembourg, Le Royal Beirut, Le Royal El Minzah and Grand Hotel Ville De France by Le Royal in Tangier. He has also spent time at IHG as Executive Assistant Manager for the Intercontinental Hotel in the Dead Sea, Jordan and then as Hotel Manager for Intercontinentals flagship property in Amman. Ojeil holds an MBA from Ecole Superieure de Commerce de Paris and an Executive MBA from the Ecole Superieure des Affaires in Beirut and has lectured in various hospitality institutions and universities. The Avery Georgetown, a new, locally owned and operated hotel located in East Village, Georgetown, will be officially open for business this Spring. The first luxury boutique inn to be positioned in the nations capital, The Avery Georgetown is designed to be the perfect oasis from the bustling epicenter of Washington, DC. The Avery Georgetown, a new, locally owned and operated hotel located in East Village, Georgetown, will be officially open for business this Spring. The first luxury boutique inn to be positioned in the nations capital, The Avery Georgetown is designed to be the perfect oasis from the bustling epicenter of Washington, DC. The Avery Georgetown introduces innovated livable design to the Washington D.C. hotel industry. The Avery is set to the bring sophisticated craftsmanship and flawless design to the traditionally residential affluent Georgetown neighborhood. And will prove to be a formidable alternative to the monotonous hotel options in Washington, D.C. We wanted to create a personalized, intimate alternative to the high-energy ebb and flow of Washington, DC, said Justin Schneck, Owner and former Thayer Lodging Group Executive. Guests at The Avery Georgetown can expect to experience the intimacy of a classic Inn, refreshed with a livable and refined modern elegance. The boutique hotel boasts top of the line design, using the finest imported materials from Italy, cutting edge hardware, featuring artful visual details and installations of top on the line finishes including the first North America application of Glas Italia Bathroom Doors. The pink glass doors are sexy and functional, said Schneck. The hotel was transformed from existing space, formerly used as a law office, into 15 refined and timeless guestrooms and suites, each room stylishly decorated, boasting sleek lines, with luxurious accents, and thoughtfully infused with nuanced illumination, geared to inspire the most sophisticated traveler. The Avery Georgetown will also feature a lobby bar and classic courtyard for exploring and relaxing, said Schneck. Our central Georgetown location will make travel around Georgetowns finest shops and restaurants, easy and accessible by foot. The Avery Georgetown is thoughtfully located in the East Village, in historical and charming Georgetown, on a tree-lined street, offering quaint charm with fine sophistication. In a geographically desirable location, The Avery Georgetown is walking distance from the Dupont Circle Metro, Foggy Bottom Metro, the Georgetown Waterfront, Kennedy Center, Embassy Row and close proximity to Washington Monuments. The Avery Georgetown promises to bring a luxurious retreat to P Street. Reservations may be made directly though The Avery Georgetown website. To book a room or suite, starting in late March, visit: http://averygeorgetown.com/. This is a real bummer of a way to start off a Monday. 21-year old business owner and sneakerhead Jamaal Mally Gaines was shot and killed at his Rahway, NJ sneaker store East Coast Boutique over the weekend. The young businessman had started his sneaker selling enterprise when he was just 18 years old, and only opened the NJ location a few years ago. No motive or suspects has been identified in the crime. Mallys heartbroken mother Tina Wilson expressed her frustration and sadness at the pointlessness of her sons death. They didnt get any money. They got nothing, so he was killed for nothing. They got nothing. Just shoot him for what? Nicekicks spoke with SoleyGhost, Mally Gaines business partner, about their relationship and who Mally was as a person. SoleyGhost explained that his dedication to [his family] was like nothing else. he would tell me about how he was going to have a huge week because he was going to earn a certain amount of money to cover a bill for his family. Ghost also added, Mally was a 21-year old kid who motivated a 32-year-old man more than anyone. The community has been devastated by the news, and have come out to show support for the late entrepreneur. His friends and family have vowed to keep the East Coast Boutique open in memory of Jamaal Gaines. If you have any information about the murder, please contact New Jerseys Union County Prosecutors Office. [via] mallygaines Over the past 11 days, Dublin was host to an array of films and guests including Richard Gere, Angela Lansbury, Jack Reynor, Brendan Gleeson, Aidan Turner and Neil Jordan, all there to celebrate the Audi Dublin Film Festival 2016. Competition for the prestigious awards was stiff but they have been handed out to the worthiest of winners. Beating the favorite Sing Street to the post is Paddy Breathnach's Viva which is now the proud owner of the AUDI-ence Award. Played at the closing gala, Viva is set in the back-streets of Havana. Dublin director Paddy Breathnach offers a tender tale of 18 year old Jesus whose dream it is to become a drag queen. In aspiration of this, he turns to the club owner Mama who lives up to his name and helps Jesus fulfill his ambition. Jesus soon becomes a crowd pleaser and flourishes in his new-found identity. That is until, his father is released from prison after 15 years and banishes Jesus from ever performing again. The ADIFF Discovery Award aims to establish emerging talent and innovation in Irish film making. With such a spectrum of flair and expertise in this years festival guide, the judging panel certainly had some serious negotiations and deliberations to plough through. That judging panel consisted of Casting Director Margery Simkin, Head of Distribution at Element Films Audrey Shiels, Director and Manager of Teach Solais Jason Foran and Director Ken Wardrop. Their chosen winners? Actor Barry Keoghan (Mammal), director/animator Jack O'Shea (Eat The Danger) and My Name is Emily's producer, Kathryn Kennedy. Geist took home the award for Short Film Award whilst The Bathtub was named Best International Short. Speaking of the tough decision, actor and panelist Killian Scott praised the 'overall quality' in the shorts category; "The international category brought us deeply moving and also hilarious tales from around the world. The winner here is a unique story that combines both qualities and reminds us of the power of simplicity in execution. On the Irish side of things, it is only right that our industry is currently looking towards Oscar glory tonight, however if the short films under review this year are anything to go by, there will be plenty more of that to come. The winner here is simply stunning. Congratulations to all." Murder She Wrote star Angela Lansbury was honored with the Volta award for her contribution to the industry, as was Italian film actress Claudia Cardinale. Between ADIFF awards, Oscar Wilde Awards and Academy Awards, may this movement in Irish film long continue! The premiere takes place in Dublin in June The National Concert Hall will be the venue on June 22 as Starboard Home receives its premiere. Commissioned by Dublin Port as part of the Ireland 2016 Centenary Programme, it features 12 new songs supplied by Bell X1's Paul Noonan, Paul Cleary from The Blades, Cathy Davey, Duke Special, Gemma Hayes, Jape, Colm Mac Con Iomaire, Lisa O'Neill, Declan O'Rourke, John Sheahan, Catriona Lally. "We wanted to rekindle the bond between the city and the port and the river," says Noonan who also serves as the project's co-creative producer. "It's been a wonderful thing having such evocative subject matter to write about." The Green Party take two seats in Dublin after being wiped out in the last general election The Green Party have clawed their way back into the Dail after Eamon Ryan and Catherine Martin claim two seats in the general election. Five years ago the Greens were wiped out in the general election after they were the junior party in a government that was in charge when Ireland saw one of its worse economic crisis' ever. It now seems that the Greens are back although only with two seats. Below is a link to an archive interview with Green Party leader Eamon Ryan from 2010 when he was the he Minister for Communications, Energy and Natural Resources. We caught up with the then Minister Ryan at the Music Show held in Dublin in October 2011 he talks to us about illegal downloading and how he thinks it can be stamped out. Advertisement hotpress.com/archive Carol Keogh has one of the most unique and arresting voices in Ireland: fact. Whether singing with The Plague Monkeys, The Tycho Brahe, duetting with Jerry Fish or performing as a solo artist, Keogh has always entranced and enchanted. Composer and producer Dunk Murphys CV includes a stint with Dublin collective Ambulance, as well as a string of releases under the Sunken Foal moniker. Keogh and Murphy have now pooled their talents as The Natural History Museum, and the results are rather lovely indeed. Throughout Attenborough, Murphy crafts a series of beguiling electro soundscapes, over which Keogh works her vocal magic. Thats not to say that Murphy is only here to highlight his musical partners voice. Far from it. On The Man I Love, his busy rhythms and infectious melody forbid you from turning away, long after Keoghs voice slips off into the electronic ether, while the lively math-rock workout of Nightfisher/Australopithecus is impossible to listen to without at least playing air-drums. How the 2016 Oscars mark a turning point for Irish cinema As the Irish walked home with one Oscar last night, some may think it was a disappointing night for the homeland, but in fact the amount of Irish talent and creativity celebrated in Hollywood last night was nothing short of a triumph. Though Lenny Abrahamson didnt scoop the Best Director for his stunningly emotional film Room (were simultaneously completely biased and completely right in saying that his innovative, nuanced and heartpounding drama would have been a worthier winner than the all-too-safe procedural drama Spotlight), his presence at the wards, along with the four other Irish nominees, marked a definite change in the tide of Irish filmmaking. While Abrahamson was nominated for Best Director for Room, his writer and collaborator Emma Donoghue was nominated for adapting her own award-winning novel. Saoirse Ronan was nominated for Best Actress in John Crowleys gorgeous adaptation of Colm Toibins Brooklyn and then there was Benjamin Cleary, who was criminally overlooked in the lead-up to Tinsel Towns most prestigious awards. The Dublin-born writer and director was the least championed and publicised of all the Irish nominees, and yet it was he who was awarded a golden statuette for Best Short Film. His short, Stutterer, tells the tale of a man whose lush inner thoughts are rendered mute by a crippling stutter feels isolated from the world despite a flourishing online relationship. Cleary was gracious and patriotic in victory, thanking his parents, and saying Every day is a proud day to be Irish, but today is even more so than usual... Slainte! Advertisement As odds-on favourite brie Larson received her award for Best Actress, the 26 year old Californian effusively thanked a proudly smiling Abrahamson, describing him as absolutely incredible, and also paid homage to Donoghue, who created this world. As Larson expressed, the thing I love about movie-making is the amount of people it takes to make it, it was clear that her award was not only a result of her stunning performance, but also the encouraging and empowering creative collaboration she shared with Abrahamson, Donoghue and producer Ed Guiney. By receiving awards in four major categories, winning one Oscar and having the work of Irish filmmakers, writers and producers lead to another, the 2016 Oscars mark a turning point for Irish cinema, as the talent, innovation and vision of our directors, writers and actors is appreciated on a world stage. Though were often presented as the underdog, we have officially proven our ability to compete alongside the best films in the world. May we see last night as a victory, and use this to encourage and invigorate the upcoming crop of Irish film talent to pursue the high standards, ground-breaking vision and international acclaim we now know we deserve. Folk doyen Richard Thompson remains a singular presence in the roots music scene after four decades. Here he talks about exile on the US West Coast and his recent return to his electric rock roots. With a career stretching back to 1967 and a body of work consisting of over 40 albums, folk-rock legend Richard Thompson continues to record and tour to almost universal acclaim and full houses. This article can only be read with a Premium Account Please Log In or Subscribe to continue reading Aussie songwriting machine Sia Furlongs seventh LP is something of a head-scratcher. Knowingly titled This Is Acting, the 12-tracker is a collection of songs turned down by other artists: Adele, Rihanna and the Queen Bee herself, to name but a few. Its essentially an album of B-sides, penned by one of pops most talented powerhouses. And indeed, theres no doubt Sia who refreshingly tends to shy away from the limelight knows how to write a pop belter. For the most part, the tracks on This Is Acting tick all the boxes hushed piano intros, and heartfelt R&B verses gradually building to catchy, epic choruses. But throughout, if feels like that extra oomph is missing. Maybe its the fact were being shown the magician behind the curtain, or just that theres not enough variety. The dizzy heights of 2014s 1000 Forms of Fear arent quite reached, nor has the album got the quirky charm of say, 2008s Some People Have Real Problems. Whilst Sia is certainly a songwriter of huge talent, This Is Acting doesnt showcase that to full effect. Key Track: Cheap Thrills Last night Hollywood's biggest stars and dark horses adorned the red carpet at the 88th Academy Awards Ceremony. With a total of 9 Irish nominations, this years Oscars were a huge testament to the ongoing innovation, ability and talent of Irish filmmakers and actors alike. Dublin director Benjamin Cleary took home his first Oscar for his short film Stutterer. On receiving his award Cleary took this opportunity to thank the support he received from the Emerald Isle; "Everyday is a proud day to be Irish but today more so than usual. To everyone for all the support back home, thank you so much." Furthermore, Brie Larson won Best Actress for her performance in Lenny Abrahamson's acclaimed Room. Mad Maxx: Fury Road swept the floor with a total of 6 wins. Meanwhile, after 22 years in the business, Leonardo DiCaprio finally became the proud owner of a golden gong for his role in Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's The Revenant. Hot Press will keep you updated throughout the day on last nights events but for the moment, check out the trailers to accompany last nights winners. Spotlight - Best Picture, Best Original Screenplay The Revenant - Best Actor - Leonardo DiCaprio, Best Cinematography - Emmanuael Lubezki, Best Director - Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu Room - Best Actress, Brie Larson Advertisement Bridge of Spies - Best Supporting Actor, Mark Rylance The Danish Girl - Best Supporting Actress, Alicia Vikander Writing's On the Wall - Best Song, Spectre The Hateful Eight - Best Score, Ennio Morricone Stutterer - Best Short Film The Big Short - Best Adapted Screenplay Mad Maxx: Fury Road - Best Costume Design, Best Production Design, Best Editing, Best Sound Mixing, Best Sound Editing, Achievement in Make Up and Hairstyling Advertisement Ex Machina - Best Visual Effects Inside Out - Best Animated Film Bear Story- Best Animated Short A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness - Best Short Documentary Amy - Best Documentary Son of Saul - Best Foreign Language Film Watch Benjamin Cleary's Oscar winning short film Stutterer Watch relatively unknown Irish writer and director Benjamin Cleary's short film Stutterer below. Speaking on RTE Radio 1's Morning Ireland today Cleary was obviously over the moon and when asked what he would do with his Oscar he suggested leaving it in the 'auld pairs' house. Stutterer was shot in London over a number of months with a budget of only 5,000 that Cleary and his crew raised themselves. This was Cleary's directorial debut and its not a bad return for his first attempt walking away with the Oscar for best Live Action Short. Advertisement If you've got 13 minutes free in your day we really suggest you watch this beautifully shot, emotional short film. U.S. Rep. John Katko and a group of local experts and stakeholders will hold a town hall meeting tonight on the heroin epidemic in Cayuga County. The forum will be held at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 8 in Cayuga Community College's Student Lounge Room, 197 Franklin St., Auburn. The event is free and open to the public. "There is no question that the heroin epidemic has taken a toll on our community," Katko said in a statement. "In Cayuga County, we've heard far too many heartbreaking stories from families who have lost loved ones and from parents who are struggling to find treatment for their children. "I look forward to continuing the public dialogue on addressing this devastating epidemic in Auburn with our local health care providers, prevention and treatment specialists, grassroots community advocates and law enforcement." Cayuga County Sheriff David Gould will serve as the moderator of the discussion. Members of the panel will Cayuga County District Attorney Jon Budelmann, Auburn Fire Chief Jeff Dygert and Monika Taylor, director of behavioral health at Crouse Hospital in Syracuse. Other panelists announced by Katko's office: Ray Bizzari, director of community services for the Cayuga County Department of Mental Health Amy Cox, health and physical education teacher at Auburn High School Kevin Jones, co-founder the Heroin Epidemic Action League whose stepdaughter, Jessica Gentile, died of a heroin overdose John Socci, father of Chris Socci, who died of a heroin overdose in 2013 Lynette Wilson, a parent and community advocate This is the latest in a series of forums Katko has held to discuss the heroin epidemic in central New York. Last year, Katko held listening sessions in DeWitt and Oswego. Access to affordable health care is a serious issue for many residents of the 33rd District. Often the need for efficient, cost-effective care seems like a daunting stressor for many families who struggle to make ends meet. Health care costs have steadily risen over the last few years and now take up one-third of our states budget. That is far too much. As a result, the Legislature has made reducing health care costs one of the top priorities for the Second Regular Session of the 98th General Assembly. Costs are reduced when best practice care is provided in a timely and coordinated fashion. The General Assembly has made great strides in finding ways to reduce costs and find better access to health care, especially in rural areas of the state, like the 33rd District. Access to quality health care hits rural areas the hardest as there is simply not as much funding or health infrastructure in these agricultural communities. Last week, the Senate advanced a bill that aims to solve two major expensive problems in health care: too many unnecessary emergency room visits and too many patient no-shows at doctors offices. Senate Bill 608, sponsored by Sen. Sater, R-Cassville, will authorize MO HealthNet health care providers to charge a minimal fee for missed appointments and will create an $8 emergency room co-pay system. This policy will encourage patients to visit their primary care doctors before going to the emergency room where they can be treated more comprehensively, at a lower cost to the state. Studies show this could save more than $18 million a year in Medicaid costs alone if every state had a similar statute. One of the most pervasive issues when dealing with inequitable health care is patient financial awareness. As many of my constituents have experienced, it can be especially frustrating to not know the true cost of health care until after a procedure or a clinic visit is complete. How many people have sought and received treatment for a medical issue only to be surprised by the massive bill that comes in the mail afterward? An amendment added to SB 608 seeks to help combat this very issue. The amendment will add more transparency when it comes to cost of medical treatment and as a result make health care providers compete for business. One way to cut down on costs is to make sure hospitals and clinics face more competition when it comes to procedures. With the added amendment, health care providers will be required to provide patients with an estimated cost of treatment within a reasonable amount of time. This allows patients to make informed, accurate decisions about their most appropriate financial options when shopping for health services. There are a few more pieces of legislation that have been moving through the legislative process this week that I would like to touch on. Senate Bill 607 was another measure passed this week, which will help reduce fraud and abuse in Missouris welfare system. The bill, also sponsored by Sen. Sater, requires the Department of Social Services to contract with a third party to verify eligibility for public assistance programs. The responsibility to find out who is no longer eligible for services would be in the hands of a private vendor that has access to better data and is more efficient and better trained to deal with that information. Also advancing this week is Senate Bill 875, sponsored by Sen. Kurt Schaefer, R-Columbia. The bill helps remove barriers to lower the cost of prescription drugs and ensures patient safety. This measure allows pharmacists to substitute any FDA approved interchangeable biologic products without prior consent just like they do now for generic drugs. Ultimately this bill will increase access to cheaper prescriptions for patients and will save the state money up to $12 million in General Revenue spending by 2019. Other bills advanced by the Senate will improve patient care. Senate Bill 635, sponsored by Sen. Dan Hegeman, R-Cosby, establishes the MO Palliative Care and Quality of Life Interdisciplinary Council and the Palliative Care Consumer and Professional Information and Education Program. To improve availability of health care in all corners of our state, the Senate gave approval to Senate Bill 621, sponsored by Sen. Gary Romine, R-Farmington. This measure allows for doctors to practice remotely via a computer or telephone connection, otherwise known as telehealth. This will also give patients access to specialists and advanced technologies without leaving their hometowns. The Legislature has also made great strides to expand access to healthcare through programs such as the Show-Me ECHO program. The program is a cost-effective, knowledge-sharing network that helps lead to better health outcomes for patients. It expands access to best-practice specialty care to patients close to home, especially in rural communities. As legislators we must be good stewards of taxpayers money. Finding ways to lower state health care costs and find appropriate care is one way to do so. All of these health care legislative updates signal a brighter future for our states health system, especially for the more rural districts like the 33rd. For more on these bills and other legislative activity, visit www.senate.mo.gov. Mike Cunningham is a Republican member of the Missouri State Senate, representing District 33. Contact him at 573-751-1882 or www.senate.mo.gov/cunningham Subscribing to our services is a three step process. First you have to create an account and then you have to pick if you want to subscribe to digital and or print. Some people only want to be a digital subscriber to get access online and others want to also receive the print edition. If you are already a print subscriber and want online access, it is free, you simply have to create an online account and then attach your print subscription account number to the online account you create. Each year, the Tax Foundation (a leading research organization) issues a report card that ranks every state in the nation based on their business tax climate. This report is widely considered to be the preeminent gauge for assessing the best (or worst) environments in which to do business or locate a potential new business. Unsurprisingly, New York State has ranked at or near the bottom of the list for more than a decade checking in at No. 49 for 2016. In an attempt to secure the reports worst overall ranking and galvanize our states reputation as being the least favorable to businesses, Albany politicians have set their sights on raising the statewide minimum wage. In fact, they have launched an all-out assault on small businesses in our state by proposing an unprecedented 67% rate increase to $15 per hour. This proposal is not only irresponsible, it is mean-spirited. Consider some of the history in how we arrived at this critical juncture. In March 2013, state leaders announced an agreement to raise the statewide minimum wage from $7.25 (the current Federal minimum wage) to $9.00 per hour making New Yorks minimum wage one of the highest levels in the country. The agreement called for the new wage to be phased in over the course of three years. Elected officials hailed the legislation as a significant achievement and an example of bi-partisan cooperation and compromise. When a handful of fast food workers went on strike in December 2013, opportunistic community organizers were quick to seize control of the situation and proceeded to leverage the plight of those in poverty to further the cause of a national special interest group. Within days, coordinated protests were orchestrated and willing participants were armed with signs that read Fight for 15. Bearing a striking resemblance to the Occupy Wall Street movement, outcries of corporate greed and income inequality dominated the headlines. By 2015, the states tipped minimum wage was in the crosshairs and the state Department of Labor eventually acted on a Wage Boards recommendation to increase the minimum wage for servers and bartenders from $5.00 to $7.50 per hour. The New York Restaurant Association objected to the rate increase saying it would lead to fewer jobs, less hours and ultimately lower pay for thousands of tipped workers. In May 2015 (prior to implementing the last phase of a negotiated $9.00 statewide wage increase) Governor Cuomo used a loophole in state law that allowed him to appoint another three-member Wage Board to recommend an adequate minimum wage for the fast food industry. The Wage Board required neither legislative consent nor approval and the three-member panel went on to arbitrarily recommend a $15 rate for the fast food industry. Inexplicably, the Wage Board did not offer explanation for why that particular amount was chosen nor did the panel contain a single representative with any meaningful experience in the restaurant industry -- let alone the fast food business. In September 2015, the $15 minimum wage for fast food workers was enacted. Now, advocates for a new statewide $15 minimum wage have once again framed the debate around the notion of restoring fairness and economic justice. These arguments seemingly ring hollow in the wake of the processes used to implement the increases for both tipped workers and the fast food industry. They also eschew the principles associated with economies of scale. The implementation of a government mandated, one-size-fits-all approach is inherently unjust and would create an even greater level of inequality between the economies of upstate and downstate. A $15 minimum wage would create significant challenges for our state. It would cost $15.6 billion to fully implement per year. Would any credence be given to such a proposal if it were phrased as a new $15.6 billion tax? Yet, that is precisely the net effect that this initiative would have on hundreds of thousands of businesses across our state. Perhaps nowhere would be more harmed by a $15 minimum wage than in the Finger Lakes Region. Far removed from New York City, there is no mistaking a local small business from some of the multinational corporations that inhabit Manhattans giant skyscrapers. In a survey of Seneca County Chamber membership, 86% were opposed to a $15 minimum wage at this time. More than 90% of respondents said they would decrease employment if the $15 level was enacted. Over 80% reported that they would increase prices to cover some of the costs associated with implementation of a $15 minimum wage. Consider the case of local restaurateur Gary Schlegel, who owns one of the most popular restaurants in the area -- the Magee Country Diner in Waterloo. Like other restaurants in the area, Magee Diner offers numerous opportunities for teenage students and young adults - particularly in the summer tourism season. The higher wage would likely force my hand to hire less inexperienced workers (like teens) in favor of more experienced personnel, Schlegel said. You will see a much higher unemployment rate in our area for teenagers, he continued. Jeff Kostick, owner of the Cayuga Lake Creamery in Interlaken has reported his own struggle to cope with a $9.00 minimum wage let alone an increase to $15. The Creamery, ranked as one of the top ice cream parlors in America by USA Today, employs roughly 35 workers in the peak tourism season. If a $15 minimum wage was enacted, Kostick said he would be facing a deficit of roughly $150,000 per year. I would have to either sell 40,000 extra ice cream cones, raise prices, reduce staff or all of the above, said Kostick. He noted that prices would likely escalate from $3.00 to $6.00 for a kiddie cone and to as much as $7.50 for one scoop. I dont think we could sustain those types of price increases for long. In short, we would be forced out of business, Kostick concluded. Complicating the issue even further is the fact that there are an estimated 20,000 unfilled jobs in the Finger Lakes region and the states Labor Department estimates there will be an additional 6,600 openings annually through 2020. These jobs are known as middle-skills jobs and do not require a college degree. Companies simply cannot find enough skilled workers for these jobs whose starting pay ranges from $25,000 to $60,000. Raising the minimum wage does nothing to address this workforce training issue, meaning the skills gap will likely widen even further. Poverty is a real problem facing both our state and local community. It is disingenuous to suggest that simply raising the minimum wage to $15 will pull people out of difficult economic situations. The Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco concluded as much in saying ...weighing employment losses against wage gains raises the broader question of how the minimum wage affects income equality and poverty. There are no clear winners in raising the minimum wage to $15. There are, however, plenty of people that stand to be negatively affected in our area should this proposal move forward. The Seneca County Chamber has launched a campaign named FifteenIsMean to combat this ill-conceived proposal. Signs are being placed in small businesses throughout our community to raise awareness for the consequences of this decision. We have also joined a coalition of more than 50 organizations across the state to oppose the $15 minimum wage. For more information, visit: minimumwagerealitycheck.com or call the Seneca County Chamber at: 315-568-2906. Please take the opportunity to educate yourself on this issue and then contact the New York State Senate to let them know fifteen is mean! Diversity Is Good for Business in Hollywood, according to UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School StudyBox-office revenues are 149% higher in films with multiple black actors in leading roles compared to films with no black actors, according to a new study. Posted by Press Releases on Monday, 02-29-2016 6:28 am Currently 0.0/5 Stars. 1 2 3 4 5 0.0 from 0 votes CHAPEL HILL, NC (PRWEB) FEBRUARY 26, 2016Films with multiple black actors in leading roles achieve significantly higher domestic box-office revenues than films with no black actors, according to a new study from the University of North Carolina Kenan-Flagler Business School.Hollywood should take note box-office revenues are 149% higher in films with multiple black actors in leading roles compared to films with no black actors, says Venkat Kuppuswamy, assistant professor of strategy and entrepreneurship at UNC Kenan-Flagler.Peter Younkin, assistant professor of strategy and organization in the Desautels Faculty of Management at McGill University, co-authored the study, Blaming the Customer: The Effect of Cast Racial Diversity on the Performance of Hollywood Films.They evaluated the commercial and artistic performance of films released theatrically within the U.S. between 2011-2015 as a function of their casts racial diversity.We provide ... 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You have successfully verified the account Continue Hi your HR.com account is ready Your Profile completion: 30% Complete your profile Athens Macedonian News Agency: News in English, 16-02-29 Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article From: The Athens News Agency at CONTENTS [01] PM Tsipras chairs meeting on refugees, first program review [02] Greek-FYROM buffer zone opens; 300 refugees cross the borders [03] "Ariadni" ferry with 1,810 refugees arrives at Piraeus port on Monday [01] PM Tsipras chairs meeting on refugees, first program review Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras on Monday chairs a meeting on the refugee issue and the first program review ahead of the critical EU summit on March 7. Tsipras underlined that Greece will ask for the obligatory allocation of refugees in EU countries, otherwise it will not consent to agreements from now on. He will brief accordingly the President of the European Council Donald Tusk during his visit to our country next Thursday . Meanwhile, the government is waiting for the representatives of the institutions to arrive to Greece and the first program review to be concluded, stressing that it implements the measures and the terms of the agreement. [02] Greek-FYROM buffer zone opens; 300 refugees cross the borders The Greek-FYROM buffer zone opened late on Sunday and 300 refugees from Iraq and Syria managed to cross the borders. The buffer zone closed again at 4 pm and around 7,000 refugees have been stranded at Idomeni. [03] "Ariadni" ferry with 1,810 refugees arrives at Piraeus port on Monday "Ariadni" ferry with 1,810 migrants and refugees from Chios and Mytilene docked at Piraeus port on Monday morning. The port authorities have offered four passenger stations and the warehouse for hosting refugees. "Blue Star 2" is expected to arrive to the port later in the day carrying 183 refugees and migrants from Leros island. Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article Athens Macedonian News Agency: News in English, 16-02-29 Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article From: The Athens News Agency at CONTENTS [01] We cannot abandon Greece now, Chancellor Merkel says [02] Govt bars TV crews, reporters from hotspots, migrant camps [01] We cannot abandon Greece now, Chancellor Merkel says "We simply cannot abandon Greece now," German Chancellor Angela Merkel said late on Sunday, in an interview with German television network ARD. Merkel accused Austria of the situation created on the Greek-fYRoM borders and underlined that she is in close contact with Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras. "The problem was created because Austria decided to accept up to 80 refugees daily," she stated. "We will meet on March 7 to discuss the issue. We did not keep Greece in the eurozone and then abandon a country member of the eurozone and the Schengen with so many problems," she said. Merkel also said Greece should have provided accommodation for 50,000 refugees, but it has not done so, however, "we cannot leave Greece alone." "When a country designates its borders, the other one must suffer. This is not my Europe," the German Chancellor concluded. [02] Govt bars TV crews, reporters from hotspots, migrant camps The migration policy ministry on Monday announced that it will no longer give permission to reporters and television crews to enter facilities set up for migrants and refugees in the country, such as reception centres and hospitality facilities. A ministry announcement stated that the decision was taken after consultations with the coordinators of so-called "hotspots" and other reception centres on the islands and mainland Greece. Athens News Agency: News in English Directory - Previous Article - Next Article quo;You have to change or were leaving these are the words that started one of Americas most successful food and beverage businesses, Tasty Catering, on a journey of cultural transformation.An interview between the Hitachi Foundation and Tasty Catering CEO Tom Walter has been published on Forbes, examining how he earned buy-in from his staff throughout this period.We began our change process by giving all employees a copy of Jim Collins book Good to Great, he said. We also formed a Good to Great Council, which still meets monthly, with rotating representatives from each department.Walters then put together teams throughout the business which decided on the companys core values. A representative from these teams met with the Good to Great Council which sat down and defined the values.Defining our values in this way earned a deep level of buy-in, because everyone helped create them, he said.The Council also works with employees on an on-going basis and attempts to boost individual productivity.For example, the Council asked everyone, What is one thing that disrupts you at work? One person said the door opening 150 times a day constantly interrupted her thought process. We put tape on the door latch, put her in an interior cube away from the door, and her productivity went up 40 per cent.Walter also said his company tries to boost performance through the philosophy of Immanuel Kant who believed people experience the greatest level of freedom when existing within a framework of clearly established discipline.Our core values provide that framework, he said.Employees at Tasty Catering know if they stay within the parameters defined by the companys values, they are free to make decisions of their own accord. As a result, the company basically runs itself; the employees serve as checks and balances for each other, he said.These initiatives have already produced positive outcomes for the business, Walter added; Last year in the course of our more than 10,000 events, there were only 81 errors. We attribute this low error rate to the ability of employees to make decisions on the fly. Princess Belle, is that you? No, it's Alicia Vikander! Advertisement The Swedish stunner, who is nominated for Best Actress in a Supporting Role for "The Danish Girl," channelled her inner Belle from "Beauty and the Beast" in a self-described "dusty yellow" Louis Vuitton gown on the 2016 Oscars red carpet in Los Angeles on Sunday evening. The belted ensemble, which included a chic bubble skirt and strapless top, featured stunning silver embellishments which simply dazzled on the carpet. She topped off the look with sparkling drop earrings and matching metallic strappy heels that were shown off beautifully. Advertisement And can we talk about the 27-year-old's hair? Vikander opted for a tousled half-updo with a bun, which she styled to the side. As for her beauty look, the actress kept things simple with a slightly glossed pink lip, bronzed cheeks and subtle smoky eye. Yup, it's official. This is a look fit for a princess. For all the 2016 Oscars red carpet looks, check out the slideshow below! Oscars 2016 Red Carpet See Gallery Talk about red hot! Charlize Theron attended the 2016 Oscars on Sunday evening donning a showstopping red gown by Christian Dior. Styled by Toronto-born stylist Leslie Fremar, the 40-year-old actress looked glam and sexy in the custom-made dress, which featured a plunging neckline and an ultra-low back. The number hugged the actress' frame perfectly, and the slight train added that extra special touch. Advertisement Charlize, who stars in the Oscar-nominated "Mad Max: Fury" accessorized the look with a long, diamond necklace by Harry Winston, along with matching diamond earrings and a diamond ring, also by the famed jeweler. She kept her short locks slicked back with the front strands in a slight wave, and her makeup look consisted of bronzed, smoky eyes and glossy nude lips. Advertisement In the words of Rihanna, "Work"! For more 2016 Oscars red carpet photos, check out the gallery below: Oscars 2016 Red Carpet See Gallery JORDAN The Jordan Village Board of Trustees may move forward with the second phase of a construction project aimed at improvements to Clinton Street in the village even with a piece of the funding for the work not guaranteed. During Monday's meeting, Mayor Richard Platten told the board "we need to discuss this," in terms of the multimodal project whose state funding may be held up despite the village signing and returning the documents to receive the money. He noted the board could seek bids for the Clinton Street project but cannot sign any contracts related to the construction before it receives the state funding. If it does, it would not be reimbursed for that portion of the project cost. "I hate the thought of waiting too long and not getting into this construction year and letting that street go on," Platten said. The work is estimated to cost $200,000 $40,000 from Onondaga County and $20,000 from New York state. Though the county money is not expected to be in jeopardy, Platten noted the state money is the total amount owed to the village in past state funding that was not received on time. Trustee Catherine Ferris suggested the board should move forward with the work that is needed for the street and figure out the funding later. "There's so much that has to be done on Clinton. The road surface itself is terrible," she said. "At the same time, we don't want to get into something we can't finish." Platten suggested the board could adjust the scope of the construction to fit the available funding for it. For example, though he said drainage work is a must in the project, the village could opt to fix the road now and fix the sidewalk later. "You can't do the sidewalk and not do the drainage," he said, adding that the village could do the work in-house or the board could opt not to sign any contracts until all of the money is received. But, he added, if the board waited and did not go out for bids until June, that hesitation could push the project back into next year instead of this summer. Trustee Robert Meixner wondered if construction companies would be reluctant to bid amid the uncertain financial situation. "We've never faced this kind of situation before," Platten said in response. "We can reject any and all bids." Duane Howard promised to represent his followers well. And represent he did. The actor from B.C.'s Nuu-chah-nulth First Nation starred in "The Revenant" as Elk Dog, an Arikara chief who chases a group of American trappers, including Leonardo DiCaprio's character Hugh Glass, in pursuit of his daughter Powaqa (Melaw Nakehk'o). Howard commanded his scenes in the film with a powerful performance. And on Sunday, he owned the red carpet in a suit by Haida designer Dorothy Grant. Advertisement The actor looked grave, intense and handsome in a suit that had raven and eagle designs on the lapels. Grant designed the suit on a week's notice, CBC News reported. Howard initially wasn't invited to the Oscars. But then he reminded co-star DiCaprio of his Golden Globes speech, when he said, "I want to share this award with all the First Nations people represented in this film and all the indigenous communities around the world," Grant told the network. Advertisement He received an invitation with a week to go before the ceremony, CBC News said. Here I go I'll represent u all well Posted by Duane E Howard on Sunday, 28 February 2016 Howard encountered a number of difficulties in his life leading up to his role in "The Revenant." Moving to Vancouver at the age of 14, he developed an addiction to alcohol and drugs that he managed to control by the age of 25, according to Grant's website. He worked with at-risk youth as a substance abuse counselor and later signed on with a talent agent, who helped him secure some walk-on roles before he took on some feature parts. Howard auditioned for "The Revenant" after friends told him that a major production was seeking indigenous actors, The Province reported. Advertisement He tried out for the part of Elk Dog and, three days later, met with director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu. "He looked at me and said, 'Great, great audition. That's what I am looking for,'" Howard told the newspaper. The actor's next credit will be "The Sun at Midnight," a film about a Montreal teen who leaves her grandmother's house in Ft. McPherson, trying to find her way back to the city. Along the way she meets a caribou tracker named Alfred, played by Howard, who lets her join him. Advertisement One can only hope that Howard's powerful performance in "The Revenant" means even bigger parts to come. Follow Us On Instagram Also on HuffPost Oscars 2016 Red Carpet See Gallery Saoirse Ronan has the luck of the Irish on her side. The 21-year-old, who was nominated for Best Actress In A Leading Role for "Brooklyn," in which she plays an Irish immigrant in America, honoured her native Ireland on the 2016 Oscars red carpet in an emerald Calvin Klein Collection gown. Advertisement The sequined plunging frock, with its open back and intricate skirt details, made Saoirse feel like she was in her "sweats or something," it was that comfortable. Ronan, who was first nominated for an Oscar at the age of 13 for her Supporting Actress role in "Antonement," also wore a bright shade of green for her first trip down the Oscars red carpet. Advertisement "I wore green back then too because Im proud to be Irish. Calvin Klein made it for me," she told ABC. The blond beauty wore her tousled locks down and showed off her dangling green earrings. Her eyes were darkly lined to enhance her stunning grey eyes. Saoirse is growing up so fast! For all the 2016 Oscars red carpet looks, check out the slideshow below! Oscars 2016 Red Carpet See Gallery First, host Chris Rock addressed the #OscarsSoWhite controversy in a hilarious (and biting) opening monologue. Then, he made everything really awkward by inviting Stacey Dash on stage. Advertisement "I cannot wait to help my people out. Happy Black History Month," she said in a brief appearance that drew scattered (and confused) laughs from the audience. Dash, who once starred in the movie "Clueless" and its television adaptation, has lately become a controversial figure after she said that she doesn't think Black History Month should exist. In a Fox News interview last month, she was asked, "Do you think there shouldn't be a Black History Month because there isn't a white history month?" Advertisement "Exactly, exactly," she said. Her comments came after Jada Pinkett Smith and Spike Lee said they would boycott the Academy Awards because there were no black performers among the acting nominees. If the point of having Dash on stage was to make everyone feel uncomfortable and confused (clueless?), then mission accomplished. But it more likely was an attempt at self-effacing satire. Black History Month is celebrated every year to recognize achievements of black people who have helped to shape history. Canada has marked it for 20 years, after Parliament passed a motion to recognize the month in 1995. Advertisement Also on HuffPost If you're a Canadian foodie, the top 10 will be familiar, but if you're looking to taste some of the country's finest meals, it's the full list that will expand your taste buds. The second annual ranking of restaurants in Canadas 100 Best magazine was announced On Monday in Toronto. The list, which was created by over 72 of the country's top chefs, restaurateurs, food journalists, and culinary experts highlights some of Canada's and the world's best places to eat. Advertisement Editor-in-chief and food writer Jacob Richler said this year, you will see a lot of movement in the rankings since the original list in 2015. "A lot of new restaurants nipping at the heals of more established places and often pushing them right out of the way in their march up the charts," he writes on the magazine's site. "Which proves that in addition to their preoccupation with quality and consistency our judges have their collective eye sharply focused on the best of the new, on whats fresh, exciting and valid." For trends this year, Richler says it's all about the vegetable. And no, not the vegetables we're all told to eat, but chefs and restaurants who are experimenting with new ways to cook veggie dishes, and get the same kind of attention as fish or meat. Advertisement "Its good for the waistline, good for the planet and most important, it agrees with my palate, too," he adds. But like most Canadian restaurant lists, the same names pop up over and over again, and for the most part, a majority of the best places to eat come from Ontario (read: Toronto) and Quebec (read: Montreal). Last year's list did not include entries from New Brunswick, P.E.I., Northwest Territories, Yukon and Nunavut, however, this year, there are entries from New Brunswick and P.E.I. but seriously, someone needs to scope out the North for the rest of us. In fact, in the top 10 this year, Toronto holds six spots (but not number one). Vancouver hosts 16 of the top 100 restaurants, with eight just in the top 50. And last year's 100th entry, Dandylion of Toronto, is this year's number six. And besides the list, the magazine also called out a few other awards, including influencer of the year chef Daniel Boulud and best new restaurant Alo, a french spot in Toronto. Check out the top 25 best restaurants below and the full list here. Charlie Sheen brought an unconventional guest to Elton John's annual Oscars party. The actor, who revealed in November that he is HIV positive, showed up to the AIDS Foundation gala Sunday in a T-shirt that proves he's not ashamed of his diagnosis. The shirt featured a younger shot of the actor with the words "Stay positively negative." Advertisement Charlie Sheen arrives at the 24th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation's Oscar viewing party on Feb. 28, 2016 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo: Michael Tran/FilmMagic) The 50-year-old actor explained to ABC7 what he'd say to anyone who asked why he skipped a suit and tie. "I'd say, yeah, but I'm at an AIDS event, and I brought my HIV." Uhhhhh that awkward Live TV moment with Charlie Sheen.... pic.twitter.com/O0MCltrPPm Ryan Field (@RyanFieldFS1) February 29, 2016 While some may have questioned the star's humour, HIV activist Josh Robbins said he thinks that jokes help people with the condition cope and that we all "need to lighten up a bit." Advertisement He said he's worried media coverage will frame Sheen unfairly. "I hope I am wrong but I imagine that this quote will be used to stigmatize him, as now not taking his condition very seriously." Sir Elton wasn't upset either not only did he and husband David Furnish pose with the actor, he posted this kind message to his Instagram account. Glad to see Charlie Sheen at the party. In great form and in great spirits. @charliesheen @ejaf @davidfurnish #EJAFOSCARS #OSCARS A photo posted by Elton John (@eltonjohn) on Feb 28, 2016 at 11:37pm PST TMZ also points out that the event raised more than US$6 million for AIDS research. Some self-deprecation for a good cause? Doesn't sound so bad to us. Also on HuffPost Darrell Lea and Streets team up to create new ice cream range Darrell Lea and Streets have partnered to create a new ice cream range for supermarkets. Sold under the Blue Ribbon brand, two 1.25 litre tub varieties are available now in Australian supermarkets. The two flavours include: Blue Ribbon Peanut Brittle Crunch: Blue Ribbon vanilla and salted caramel with Darrell Lea Peanut Brittle. Blue Ribbon Coconut Rough Chips: Blue Ribbon vanilla with choco-coconut. Streets Ice Cream Marketing Director Anthony Toovey said Streets was excited to bring the two brands together. Innovation is key for us and in this highly competitive market and its important we meet the increasing demand from flavour fanatics who are looking for a new after dinner sweet treat, Toovey said. The new ice cream range is available now from Woolwroths, Coles, IGA and selected convenience stores. The recommended retail price is AUD$6.99 for a 1.25L tub. Stock Edmonton is once again mulling a ban on plastic bags, after Montreal's city council decided to adopt the measure. Montreal announced Feb. 22 that a ban on single-use plastic bags will take effect in 2018. A similar proposal was raised in Edmonton in 2008 and again in 2012, but Coun. Ben Henderson says it might be worth another look. Advertisement The advantage of another city doing something like that is you get to know how it worked, how effective it was and what the best ways are of doing it," Henderson told Global News. Currently, Edmonton's approach is to ask businesses to add a surcharge for customers who choose to use plastic bags, according to CBC News. Companies like Walmart and Shoppers Drug Mart have adopted small fees for plastic bags. Grocery store bags and produce bags can be recycled in Edmonton, but they still often end up as litter or in landfills. Plastic packaging is accumulating so quickly, it's expected to outnumber fish in the sea by 2050, according to a recent report by the World Economic Forum. Advertisement If implemented, Edmonton would be the second municipality in Alberta to ban the single-use bags, after Fort McMurray. There has been a drastic change even from our community cleanup groups. We are getting a lot of feedback in the spring and fall. We dont see the plastic bags in the tree lines anymore, Jarrod Peckford an environmental and public services for Wood Buffalo, told CJME. Also on HuffPost: Its wedding bells for former Dancing With The Stars partners. Australian dancer Kym Johnson showed off the 6.5-carat engagement ring Canadian tech mogul Robert Herjavec gave her to photographers outside Elton Johns Oscars party in West Hollywood on Sunday. The reality TV alums confirmed their celebratory news the day before. Advertisement Robert Herjavec and Kym Johnson attend the 24th Annual Elton John AIDS Foundation's Oscar Viewing Party - Arrivals on February 28, 2016 in West Hollywood, California. (Photo: Maury Phillips/WireImage) The couples insane chemistry sparked dating rumours last year, which followed the pair for months after they met on season 20 of the hit ABC show. But it was all platonic at the beginning, Johnson explained in an interview back in January. We got to know each other on a friendship level. That developed into something else. We're both each other's number one fans, and have respect for each other, she told People at the time. On Sunday, she called herself the luckiest girl in the world after Herjavec proposed. I never thought a year ago I'd meet someone who would change my life completely ! I'm the luckiest girl in the world because last night the love of my life @robert_herjavec asked me to marry him and I said yes! A photo posted by Kymjohnson5678 (@kymjohnson5678) on Feb 28, 2016 at 12:20pm PST Advertisement According to HollywoodLife, rose petals lined a path to a pool where a big swan carried a box holding the ring. Johnson pulled the swan in and opened the box, to read a message asking, Will you marry me? The pair began dating 10 months ago, shortly after Herjavec separated from his wife of 25 years, Diane Plese. Herjavec, a former Dragons' Den judge, has appeared on Shark Tank since 2009. And on Saturday, he couldnt contain his excitement looking ahead to life together with his fiancee. Kym is an incredible woman and I'm just so excited for what the future brings for us, he said. There's a very good reason why Leap Day might look a little like this at your bank. That's because Feb. 29 is also the deadline for Canadians to contribute to their registered retirement savings plans (RRSPs) for the 2015 tax year. Advertisement It's an opportunity for people to reduce their income and maybe enjoy a nice tax refund if the numbers work out. An RRSP is a tax-deductible contribution to your retirement savings, on which you don't have to pay taxes until you take the money out, according to Investopedia. If a person pays income taxes of 40 per cent, "every $100 he or she invests in an RRSP will save that person $40 in taxes," up to specific limits, the site says. Advertisement Unlike capital gains or dividends, any growth in RRSP investments isn't taxed. An RRSP can take numerous forms. You can put it in a savings account, or you can also invest the money in mutual funds, bonds, equities or treasury bills. The deadline comes after a turbulent year in Canadian markets, as the price of oil continues to wreak havoc on the economy. It may be the reason why the Bank of Montreal is projecting 61 per cent of Canadians will contribute to their RRSPs this year, compared to 64 per cent last year, The Globe and Mail reported. But deadline day is nevertheless expected to be busy. TD Bank senior vice-president Linda MacKay told the newspaper: "We definitely saw higher movement last week and are expecting to see a higher-than-normal level of clients coming into the branch and using our call centres and online platforms." Advertisement Canadians have until 11:59 p.m. local time to contribute to their RRSPs. Also on HuffPost: A new poll suggests that only one-fifth of Canadians think the federal government should stick by the controversial, $15-billion arms deal with Saudi Arabia and it's an issue that cuts across party lines. Numbers released by the Angus Reid Institute on Monday show nearly half of Canadians (48 per cent) believe that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is making the wrong call by honouring the deal. Just 19 per cent support the decision not to rip up the contract to sell light-armoured vehicles to the wealthy Arab nation, which has a long history of human rights violations. Thirty-three per cent of Canadians aren't sure which path to take. Advertisement Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks in the House of Commons last week. (Photo: Adrian Wyld/CP) The deal was brokered by the past Conservative government of Stephen Harper in 2014 and is expected to create 3,000 jobs in southern Ontario, where the vehicles will be produced by London's General Dynamics Land System. Liberals, New Democrats, and Tories pledged during last fall's federal election campaign not to cancel the contract if they won government. But 35 per cent of Conservative voters now say that upholding the deal is a bad decision, compared to 27 per cent who say it's the right move. Advertisement Forty-four per cent of Liberal voters are unhappy with the deal, compared to 21 per cent who think it is a good decision to stick with it. And 60 per cent of NDP voters oppose the deal, compared to just 12 per cent who say the it should move forward. The Angus Reid Institute reports that women were three times more likely than men to say it was the wrong decision to allow the deal to continue. Saudi government deserves condemnation: poll The poll also tested how Canadians feel about several countries in the Middle East. Fifty-four per cent of Canadians say the Saudi government deserves condemnation, not respect. Only Iran fared worse, with 55 per cent condemning that country's government. Advertisement By comparison, 29 per cent of Canadians said that Israel's government deserves respect, with 34 per cent expressing disapproval. The poll also had some good news for the Liberal government, with a plurality of Canadians (40 per cent) telling the firm that lifting sanctions against Iran would be a "good thing" for Canada. Trudeau's Liberals have already dropped some sanctions imposed on Iran over its nuclear ambitions and are aiming to restore diplomatic relations for the first time since 2012. The survey was conducted online among 1,507 Angus Reid Forum panelists from Feb. 2 to 5. Similar surveys have a margin of error of 2.5 per cent, 19 times out of 20. Liberal stalwart expresses concerns Meanwhile, a former Liberal cabinet minister and international human rights expert has publicly urged Trudeau to review the arrangement with Saudia Arabia. Advertisement Irwin Cotler, who resigned as an MP in 2015, told The Globe and Mail Sunday that when it comes to Saudi Arabia, Canada should not "sell arms to a country that engages in a persistent pattern of human rights violations." Veteran Liberal MP and former minister of justice Irwin Cotler makes his way to the House of Commons in February, 2014. (Photo: Sean Kilpatrick/CP) Cotler pointed to "alarming evidence" that the Saudis may be using Canadian-made vehicles against Houthi rebels Yemen, as reported by The Globe last week. He also suggested that the deal clashed with Trudeau's commitment to sign the United Nations Arms Trade Treaty. Last month, former Liberal foreign affairs minister Lloyd Axworthy also called on Trudeau to revisit the deal. Advertisement ALSO ON HUFFPOST: As Donald Trump casts aside all manner of decency in pursuit of the White House, an American newspaper has highlighted how much the brash billionaire differs from Canada's prime minister. In fact, a Washington Post piece published Monday has dubbed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau the "anti-Trump." Advertisement Washington Post has called Trudeau the "anti-Trump." (Photo: CP) Ishaan Tharoor writes that both Trudeau and Trump have mastered "the art of branding and showmanship," but in completely different ways. "Trudeau's progressive, inclusive message could not be more different than that of Trump," he writes. From there, Tharoor compares the Republican presidential front-runner with Trudeau on everything from their approaches to climate change and languages, to Syrian refugees and feminism. Advertisement The differences are stark. A video accompanying the piece contrasts a clip of Trudeau announcing an end to Canada's airstrikes against the so-called Islamic State earlier this month with one of Trump vowing to "bomb the shit out of them." But Canada's PM and the would-be U.S. president differ most, perhaps, when it comes to treatment of Muslims. The piece notes that Trudeau's Liberals railed against "the politics of Islamophobia" in the election last fall, while Trump has outrageously called for a "complete shutdown" of Muslims from entering the United States. 'Canadians are very aware of my feelings on this': Trudeau Trudeau has avoided criticizing Trump by name, despite some goading. When asked about Trump's anti-Muslim proposal in December, Trudeau suggested to reporters he did not want to interfere in a foreign election, but left little doubt where he stood. Advertisement "Canadians are very aware of my feelings on this," Trudeau said at the time. "And they, by the way, sided pretty clearly against the politics of fear and division in our election here." He was also asked to weigh in on Trump's style of politics at a town hall sponsored by Maclean's magazine in December. "I don't think it comes as a surprise to anybody that I stand firmly against the politics of division, the politics of fear, the politics of intolerance or hateful rhetoric," the PM said. Trudeau also warned against rewarding those who try to spin Muslims into scapegoats for political points. "If we allow politicians to succeed by scaring people, we don't actually end up any safer," Trudeau said. "Fear doesn't make us safer, it makes us weaker." Advertisement The prime minister could also face questions about Trump from U.S. reporters when he heads to Washington next month for a state dinner with U.S. President Barack Obama. It will be the first White House state dinner in 19 years for a Canadian leader. Ambrose: Trump not welcome in Conservative Party But interim Conservative leader Rona Ambrose has also been clear in denouncing Trump's politics. Ambrose told The Canadian Press last year that Trump's positions went well beyond right-wing and were completely "off the spectrum." "That's not a voice that we welcome in our party," she said. Advertisement With files from The Canadian Press ALSO ON HUFFPOST: David Lochlin/Flickr I can't believe the cruelty that my fellow human beings inflict on animals like these just to obtain traditional medicines. Putting tubes into their stomachs to milk them for bile. While these animals may not star alongside Leonardo DiCaprio anytime soon, nor likely to be chosen as supporting cast for the next Disney blockbuster, they're still in need of attention. These are threatened species -- some due to hunting, others to habitat loss from industrialization. Today, travelers are digging in to preserve their future, and giving them a much needed turn in the spotlight. Advertisement Credit: Earthwatch The vast, relatively untouched Amazonian forests of northeastern Peru harbour an incredible diversity of wildlife. Pink river dolphins and caimans still swim these waters, while extraordinary birds species colour the canopy above. In this remote and isolated region of the Amazon, Earthwatch scientists are working with travelers to conduct a comprehensive survey of the area's biodiversity to develop sustainable conservation strategies for the region and the people who inhabit it. Illegal timber companies, pet traders, and hunters have decimated wildlife in other areas of the Amazon, lending urgency to the conservation of these nearly pristine reserves. Credit: Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary This is an opportunity of a lifetime, assisting with native Australian wildlife in a remarkable sanctuary setting. The main focus of the Currumbin Sanctuary is to protect the welfare of native wildlife. Sick, injured, orphaned and displaced wildlife receive medical treatment and a new lease on life. Residents include echidnas, wombats, koalas, bobtails, quendas, and red kangaroos. Advertisement Credit: Free the Bears Conservation travelers are helping care for over 150 bears (Malayan sun bears and Asiatic black bears) and using their free time to explore Cambodia. By investing at the Centre, travelers are making a major contribution to the welfare of bears in Asia. Their time and efforts help to care for the bears, and the majority of the program costs provide essential sources of funding for their future sustainability. On a personal level, conservation travelers with Free the Bears have a unique opportunity to work alongside some incredible animals and gain the satisfaction of helping to make a difference to the lives of these animals. Credit: Natural Habitat Adventures Atop the Ethiopian Highlands, you perch on the very roof of Africa. This vast high-altitude plateau is one of the world's most dramatic landscapes. It's also home to rare endemic wildlife such as walia ibex, mountain nyala, Ethiopian wolf and the gelada baboon. These are at-risk and threatened species due to hunting and habitat loss, and the award-winning Natural Habitat Adventures offers expeditions that invest in the sustainability of the region. Credit: Kaya Responsible Travel Freedom Foods maintains profits despite market volatility Freedom Foods has today posted an increase in operating net profit of AUD$4.2 million for the six months ended 31 December 2015. This is a profit jump of 35 per cent on the corresponding period in 2014. The ASX-listed company, which specialises in health foods, attributed the results to increased sales of its cereals, bars and non-dairy beverages. Pactum Dairy Group performs well Freedom has a 50 per cent share of the Pactum Dairy Group which achieved sales of AUD$30 million and is expected to continue to perform successfully in the next six months despite a volatile dairy industry sector. Demand for its UHT milk products is predicted to increase across Australia, China and South East Asia. Freedom investing in Sydney processing facility Looking ahead to the future Freedom Foods said it expects its investments in a new Sydney UHT processing facility will add to its profitability. Freedom also reflected that it became a 10 per cent equity participant in Australian Fresh Milk Holdings Consortium with Moxey Farms (Australias largets single-site dairy operation) in 2015 and that the business is profitable and made a small contribution to earnings. The financial period covered the acquisition of Darlington Point Mill in December 2015 and the acquisition of Popina Foods, a popular cluster format cereal and snack producer in Australia. A total of AUD$8.5 million went towards the acquisition of Darlington Point Mill and AUD$35 million to the acquisition of Popina Foods. Marco Brivio via Getty Images The Badshahi Mosque, or the 'Emperor's Mosque', in Lahore is the second largest mosque in Pakistan and South Asia and the fifth largest mosque in the world. Little has changed in Pakistan over the last 20 years. The unshakeable Nawaz Sharif was the Prime Minister when I was a child celebrating my 13th birthday. Domestic political mafias were causing terror on the streets of Karachi and inter-provincial rivalries were just as much an issue then as they are now. Political cronyism and corruption was the rule rather than the exception and dynastic politics reigned supreme. Given the gradual societal deterioration, ethnic strife, sectarian violence and extremism, Pakistan is a country on the precipice, but has been so for the majority of its existence. If we're to look beneath the surface however, recent developments may unearth a guiding light past the evolutionary dead-end and bring reason for cautious optimism. Advertisement Building bridges Despite its internal problems, Pakistan is slowly emerging as a key cog in the geopolitics of the region. In light of the OPEC market share war and the Syrian crisis, both Iran and Saudi Arabia are looking to tilt the power balance in their favour - a balance that lies with Pakistan as a military power. Instead of gravitating towards its traditional Sunni ally in Saudi Arabia, Pakistan is attempting to play a positive role in diffusing tensions between the two regional powers while also keeping its interests in mind. Interests such as the China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a 3,000-kilometer network of roads, railways and pipelines to transport oil and gas from southern Pakistan's Gwadar Port to northwestern China is central to Pakistan's neutral position. If CPEC is to be realized, a closer relationship with Iran becomes imperative. The semi-autonomous Gilgit-Baltistan region of Pakistani administered Kashmir is the gateway of the planned CPEC route from China into Pakistan with historical political ties to Iran. Iran also borders Pakistan's volatile Balochistan province - the home of Pakistan's Chinese-built Gwadar port and final CPEC destination. The Iranian relationship becomes doubly significant given that India recently approved $150 million credit line for the development of its Chabahar port on the southern coast of Iran. The port has the potential to compete directly with Pakistan's Gwadar port for access to Central Asian and Middle Eastern markets. From a geopolitical perspective, it would be in Pakistan's best interest to keep Iran within its orbit either through CPEC or the dwindling Iran-Pakistan pipeline to prevent it from drifting into India's domain. There is a domestic dimension that is just as important. If CPEC is to become a reality, placating the semi-autonomous Gilgit-Baltistan region and its majority Shiite population will be crucial as the region acts as the gateway to the project between China and Pakistan. In fact, if Pakistan truly wants this economic opportunity to come to fruition, the government will need to consider input from all provinces and from a multitude of voices rather than from just from Punjab or Sindh. This exercise of economic collaboration, if done properly, can to lead to greater inter-provincial harmony and further state evolution. Advertisement Potential for Stability Pakistan's history is replete with underlying tensions between civilian governments and the military. Instances of government corruption followed by military coups exacerbated existing problems and undermined security and stability. With both Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and military chief Raheel Sharif in political lockstep, stability may be more viable than in the past. Working together towards shared economic and domestic challenges has kept the government from entering foreign conflicts and wading into military misadventures. Such pragmatism demonstrates a shift from the past where Pakistan's infatuation with India and obsession with Afghanistan resulted in impulsive policies that only resulted in unnecessary blowback. Instead, the military's role as the de-facto state power has been integral in allowing the civilian government to govern while thwarting attempts at internal destabilization from terrorist outfits. The recent arrest of 97 Lakshar-e-Jhangvi militants who were attempting to free the Khalid Omar Sheikh, the killer of the late Wall Street journalist Daniel Pearl, is just one example. More importantly, Pakistan seems to finally be winning its fight against terrorism, a development that is crucial to a lasting peace and future prosperity. It must be noted that although governments and militaries can create the foundation of stability and economic opportunity through policy, real evolution is only possible by the momentum these policies create. If Pakistan is to descend from the precipice it sits on, any momentum from CPEC and long-term peace must continue in the areas of human rights, government accountability, literacy and law enforcement. In the end, any true evolution will not be up to self-interested governments and powerful militaries. It will be up to the people of Pakistan to ensure it continues in perpetuity. luismmolina via Getty Images Probiotic Lactobacillis Bacteria Using bacteria to control environmental troubles has been an ongoing campaign for decades. A variety of environmental species have proven their worth in dealing with oil spills, polychlorinated biphenyls, also known as PCBs, and radioactive waste. The chemicals are broken down, rendering them harmless to the variety of living species in the area, including humans. Most of the time, the focus of bioremediation has been on chemical contamination resulting from manufacturing or harvesting. But one particularly important source for chemical contamination, agriculture, has gained significant attention over the last decade. To counter the regular use of pesticides to maintain crops, microbes have been identified as a potential resource to improve the environment and possibly, improve the safety of plant-based foods. Advertisement One particular target is the chemical chlorpyrifos. It's an organic chemical known to kill of a variety of insects. However, it also can affect several other species, including fish, land animals and humans. The effect can be quite problematic as the target of the chemical is the nervous system and can result in dizziness, nausea, confusion, respiratory troubles, and in severe cases, death. The amount of chlorpyrifos taken in by any human tends to be far lower than the levels needed to cause these symptoms. However, there is concern for persistence both in the environment and also in the body suggesting exposure should be at worst minimal and at best, non-existent. Therein lays the dilemma. To achieve this goal of non-exposure, crops would have to be put at risk of infestation and potential damaging losses. In a time when food security has never been more prevalent, this could pose a significant problem for farmers. The regulatory approach has varied as a result. In this light, the Environmental Protection Agency in the United States has proposed a ban on the chemical. In Canada, a different tact has been developed. Instead of a ban, a maximum residue limit has been set. While governments attempt to find the right balance between agriculture and human health, researchers have turned to our microbial counterparts in the hope of finding species capable of breaking down chlorpyrifos. The goal has been primarily to find beneficial candidates with little concern for public health. After all, it's rare that one can get the best of both worlds. Yet this indeed may be the case. Advertisement Back in 2003, a variety of chlorpyrifos-remediating bacteria was found. This proved the path forward was at least possible. The only drawback was the nature of the bacteria, which were also crop spoilers. Using these species might reduce the pesticide level but could ultimately end up hurting the overall crop output. The hunt continued without much movement for years. But a few years later, while examining some of the less popular literature, a few researchers came across an almost unbelievable option: probiotics. Although the information was sketchy at best, there was evidence of chlorpyrifos degradation by yogurt bacteria. This revelation offered at least a possible route to success although there was little belief these microbes could provide an viable answer. Yet by 2013, there was more than enough information to suggest many of the species in our own intestines may have the ability to break down the pesticide. The most effective happened to be the same species known to be probiotics, with names such as Lactobacillus fermentum, and Lactobacillus plantarum. This allowed for the introduction of the concept of probiotic prophylaxis to reduce pesticide absorption. But even as the idea of using probiotic bacteria to help humans deal with pesticides, there was still a concern in the larger context of environmental and crop sustainability. Though we may be able to deal with exposure using our own bacteria, protecting the rest of the world needs to be considered. Now it seems that overarching goal may be possible. Last week, a group of Chinese researchers revealed how Lactobacillus plantarum can be used in corn silage to help break down chlorpyrifos as well as another pesticide, phorate. The results of the experiments revealed simply adding this bacterial species to silage can improve the breakdown of the pesticide and speed up the time necessary to reduce levels to acceptable ranges. Advertisement Pamela Moore via Getty Images Six multi-ethnic friend graduates excitedly wait for their name to be called during graduation ceremony. Mixed-race girl looks back at camera. School building background. Over 10 days in January of last year, I visited college and university campuses all across Ontario. Hearing directly from students about issues they care deeply about was a great experience. Young people across Ontario are bright, ambitious and hard-working. They wanted to talk about a variety of things, from the environment, to the changing economy, to how we're helping workers save more for retirement. But they especially wanted to talk about the challenges they face in pursuing their education after high school. Advertisement They told me about the mounting financial pressures they face, about the sacrifices low-income and single parents make to give their children opportunities they never had, and about juggling work and school and still graduating with a heavy burden of student debt. Just as important as what I heard on campus is what I didn't hear -- from all those young people who didn't go on to college or university after high school -- and whose options in life will be forever limited because of that. As a premier whose top priority is to ensure everyone can get a good job, it's my job to fix these problems. It's my job to erase any worries people have that a college or university education is out of reach. And it's my job to make it easier for more young people to continue learning and pursuing their passions after high school. That's why, as announced in last week's Ontario 2016 Budget, we are making the single-largest modernization of student financial assistance in the history of our province. Advertisement More than 125,000 students will get more upfront grant support than under the current program. We are transforming student assistance to provide free college and university tuition to eligible students from low-income families and provide better, more upfront financial support to students all across Ontario. Beginning in the 2017-18 school year, existing student assistance programs will be replaced by a single, new program called the Ontario Student Grant, which will make the whole system fairer and easier to navigate. More than 125,000 students will get more upfront grant support than under the current program. Average college and university tuition will be free for students with financial needs whose family income is $50,000 or less and tuition will be more affordable for middle-income families. In fact, tuition will be free for more than half of students from families with annual incomes of $83,000 or less. Students from families with incomes of less than $50,000 will have no provincial student debt. To ensure everyone has the opportunity to flourish -- no matter their circumstance or stage of life -- this new Ontario Student Grant will provide additional support for full-time mature and married students. Advertisement We are also working to remove non-financial barriers to post-secondary education, because that's how the Ontario Student Grant will achieve its maximum impact and help people of all backgrounds and income levels participate in our knowledge economy. So, what does Ontario get by levelling the playing field so that everyone can afford to go to college or university? We get an even more highly skilled workforce in an even fairer society. Ontario's highly skilled workforce is one of our greatest competitive advantages. In 2014, 66 per cent of Ontario adults had a post-secondary credential, up from 56 per cent in 2002 and higher than the rates for any country in the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development. I know this is one of our greatest strengths, because I hear it all the time -- from business owners and from overseas companies looking to invest here. As we continue to transition to a more knowledge-based economy, our workers will need higher education and specialized skills for good job opportunities. According to some projections, seven out of 10 future new jobs in Canada will be in high skilled or management occupations. Advertisement We are well positioned to meet or exceed our target of having 70 per cent of Ontario adults having a post-secondary credential by 2020. Still -- we always need to be improving access and affordability. So the Ontario Student Grant is not only the right thing to do -- it's the smart thing to do. Our government's number one priority is to grow the economy and create jobs because that's the best way we can help people day-to-day. As our plan continues to invest in infrastructure and in a low-carbon economy driven by innovative, high-growth, export-oriented businesses, the Ontario Student Grant will help more people get and create those jobs of the future. It's an investment that our government is proud to make. Kathleen Wynne is the Premier of Ontario Follow HuffPost Canada Blogs on Facebook ALSO ON HUFFPOST: Kirill Kukhmar via Getty Images NOVOSIBIRSK, RUSSIA. FEBRUARY 27, 2016. A polar bear named Gerda and a polar bear cub playing in the Novosibirsk Zoo. Kirill Kukhmar/TASS (Photo by Kirill Kukhmar\TASS via Getty Images) Sea ice across the circumpolar Arctic is dramatically reducing due to the effects of climate change. Because of their reliance on sea ice for hunting, mating, and travelling, polar bears have been assessed as vulnerable by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN). If climate change continues unabated, the species is expected to experience population declines. Arctic sea ice is now declining at a rate of 13.4 percent per decade and this January we witnessed the lowest Arctic winter sea ice on record. It was estimated in a 2011 analysis that if spring sea ice break-ups start to occur one month earlier than it did in the 1990s, then 40 to 73 per cent of female polar bears in Western Hudson Bay could fail to reproduce. Advertisement But this sad story isn't carved in stone -- yet. In fact, across much of their range, polar bear populations are stable at the moment. Here's some facts on the status of polar bears today, and why action to reverse climate change is so important for this species. 19: The number of polar bear subpopulations that span the Arctic, from the Laptev Sea in Russia to Davis Strait in Canada. 26,000: The estimated number of polar bears in the wild. Two-thirds of them live in Canada. 7: The number of stable or increasing subpopulations in Canada. Six are in stable condition and one is increasing in numbers. Advertisement 3: The number of subpopulations in decline. Seven of the subpopulations were found to be in decline in 2009, where today only three subpopulations, all partially occurring in Canada, are declining. 9: The number of subpopulations that we need to know more about. Currently not enough is known about nine subpopulations (three of which are in Canada) to know whether they are decreasing, increasing or stable. 30%: The IUCN predicated decline in population numbers expected by 2050 due to climate change. WWF is working on the ground in the Arctic to support polar bears and ensure their long-term survival in the face of climate change. This work includes: Supporting studies on how reductions in sea ice will affect the distribution of polar bears in the Arctic Archipelago. Helping to implement and fund a polar bear monitoring and patrol program in Arviat, NU., to reduce the number of negative human-polar bear interactions. Working with local people and governments to protect key marine areas for polar bears, including the Last Ice Area and Lancaster Sound. WWF's Arctic conservation work supports polar bears through research, community engagement and policy advocacy. In 2015, we were pleased to welcome the first-ever global agreement on polar bear protection. Learn more about WWF-Canada's arctic work, and how you can support our conservation projects by signing a petition or making a donation by visiting www.arctichome.ca Advertisement Leonardo DiCaprio picked the perfect date for Sunday nights Oscars, arriving at the ceremony at LAs Dolby Theatre with none other than his 'Titanic' co-star Kate Winslet. The actor, who was widely tipped to finally get his hands on the Best Actor accolade for his role in The Revenant, was all smiles on the red carpet ahead of his big night. Leo got his first Oscar nomination in 1993 The star looked (almost) totally relaxed, before heading into the awards bash, striking a pose with Kate, who looked delighted to accompany the actor into the event. Ahead of the event, many fans thought Leo would hit the red carpet with his mum, who he dedicated his Baftas win to earlier this month. Advertisement How times have changed since 1998, when they hit Hollywood's red carpet following the success of 'Titanic' This woman drove me three hours a day to a different school to show me a different opportunity. Its her birthday today. Mom, happy birthday. I love you very much. The duo have remained firm friends and starred alongside each other on a number of occasions Kate Winslet, shared her delight at his nomination ahead of the Oscars ceremony, and when asked whether she'd be boycotting due to #OscarsSoWhite row, stated she couldn't possibly miss her pal's big moment. See all the snaps from the red carpet below... A day of chaos has seen migrants forcibly removed from the Calais "jungle" camp, hit with tear gas at Greece's border with Macedonia but greeted with warm handshakes in radically different scenes in Rome. In Calais, migrants set fire to their tents as riot police, moved in to remove them from the part of the camp that is to be demolished. Advertisement Lines of police vans gathered on the perimeter of the camp's southern section as migrants and refugees were told their only option now was to move. Tear gas used during the migrants' forced removal. UK bound refugees in Calais 'Jungle' now setting fire to their tents as riot police try to evacuate them. pic.twitter.com/VZhjjh8zsW Peter Allen (@peterallenparis) February 29, 2016 The scene was between police and migrants was more severe on the Greek/Macedonian border, where migrants had tear gas fired at them by police trying to prevent them breaking through the border and continue heading into Europe. The refugees and migrants had tried to push their way into Macedonia, breaking down a border gate and ripping open part of the razor-wire barrier near the northern Greek village of Idomeni. Advertisement The dramatic scenes made a stark contrast with refugees' reception in Rome today. Scenes in Macedonia A hundred Syrians were the first group to arrive legally and safely as part of a "humanitarian corridor", a Catholic initiative aimed at preventing deaths in the Mediterranean. Families with small children were among those arriving to a warm welcome from Italians, who shook their hands and greeted them. The Federation of Protestant Churches in Italy and Rome's Catholic Sant'Egidio Community have asked the government for 1,000 humanitarian visas for Syrians displaced by their country's civil war and living in refugee camps in Lebanon. Refugees welcomed in Rome See gallery Advertisement In Calais, state authorities have said up to 1,000 people, who live in the makeshift camp with the ultimate aim of escaping to Britain, will be affected by the closure of the camp. Aid workers say the figure is likely to be much higher. Help Refugees said its own analysis revealed there were 3,455 people living in the affected area. Some refused to leave as authorities began the long-anticipated clearance that campaigners fought in the courts. Police supported agents who began dismantling the makeshift shelters that are home to thousands. A man standing on a shelter's refuses to leave, as anti-riot policemen support agents dismantle shelters A judge ordered the demolition go ahead on Friday and after several days of authorities going door to door and asking people to move, police went in on Monday. Local authority head Fabienne Buccio said around three quarters of the shelters in the camp's southern section after authorities went door to door trying to get people to move. Advertisement Lliana Bird, co-founder of Help Refugees, told HuffPost UK: "It has been publicly accepted in court that there are not enough state run places for all the refugees being evicted to go to, so this move will simply be making thousands of vulnerable people homeless. "With over 3,500 people in the zone to be bulldozed, and just over 1,000 places available in containers and French run centres there are more than 2,500 men, women and children who will soon be facing winter weather without shelter, and with no where to go once their current homes are destroyed. "The trauma this is causing already vulnerable and displaced people is immeasurable. We ask the French authorities to work with us to find safe and dignified solutions to rehouse the residents of the Calais camp." Calais Jungle Camp Cleared See gallery Lib Dem leader Tim Farron called the situation a "heart-breaking symptom of the greatest humanitarian crisis of the century". He said: "Razing half a camp with bulldozers, flanked by riot police is not a solution. Moving people from a tent to a shipping container will have very little impact. Advertisement "The families in Calais are people and families from places like Iraq and Syria fleeing war and instability. These people are trying to look for a place of peace where they can make a new life for them and their family, at least until its safe enough to return home." Meanwhile about 6,500 migrants are stuck on the Greek-Macedonian border at Idomeni, waiting to travel north but Macedonia is only admitting a trickle who continue on to central and western Europe. A battering ram was apparently used to break through the section of fence. It is not clear how many people got through before the police pushed the group back. Donald Trump has blamed a "lousy earpiece" for his refusal to condemn the Ku Klux Klan, an explanation that even for him makes absolutely no sense. The floppy-haired conduit for humanity's worst ideas was attempting to backtrack on a CNN interview in which he was questioned over his support from various white supremacist groups. Advertisement He said: "I'm sitting in a house in Florida with a very bad earpiece that they gave me, and you could hardly hear what he was saying. Trump pointing at sanity as it flees his speech in Madison City Stadium "But what I heard was various groups, and I don't mind disavowing anybody, and I disavowed [former Grand Wizard of the KKK] David Duke and I disavowed him the day before at a major news conference." He continued to dig a hole by adding: "He also talked about groups. And I have no problem with disavowing groups, but I'd at least like to know who they are. It would be very unfair to disavow a group, Matt, if the group shouldn't be disavowed. I have to know who the groups are." Advertisement They're White Supremacist groups Donald. White. Supremacist. Also, his defence clearly isn't true. Trump mentioned David by name in the original interview. He said: "I dont know anything about David Duke. I dont know anything about what youre even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists. "Youre asking me about something I know nothing about." This wasn't true either, back in August last year he mentioned him in a speech. So basically Trump has tried to get out of a lie with yet another lie. His words came as KKK member was accused of stabbing a man with a flagpole after a protest turned violent on Saturday. At least three people have been stabbed after the KKK 'White Lives Matter' rally in Southern California turned into a violent brawl. Protesters from the white supremacy group dressed in black shirts decorated with the 'Klan cross' took out signs that read "White Lives Matter" after getting out an SUV in a park in Anaheim, near Los Angeles, on Saturday afternoon. Advertisement They were quickly surrounded afternoon by the counter-protesters who had heard about the planned anti-immigration protest and were waiting for them, the Associated Press reports. Voters should take a look at Donald Trump's unreal "gross" hair before deciding whether to elect him as president, a ten-year-old Hillary Clinton supporter has warned. Interviewed by The Huffington Post's Caroline Modarressy-Tehrani at Clinton's South Carolina headquarters, the girl, Lexi, slammed Trump for not having "any experience at all". Advertisement "He sits there and thinks, 'Oh I'm Mr. Donald Trump, I know everything,' which is sort of like my brother," she said. "He's just rich, a lot of people just vote for him because they think they'll get some money, too. But that's not it. You think you're going to get the money, but that's not the case." Lexi also was deeply unimpressed with Trump's views on Muslims - who he has said should be banned from the United States. "It's ridiculous because I mean, look at these people, your best friend you may not know is Muslim or Jewish," she said. "And Bernie Sanders, he's Jewish. You don't see anybody talking about that. He's just building an environment for the kids, their parents are voting for Donald Trump, but little do they know that their kids will grow up not having a good education and not having good jobs." Advertisement There was one more thing that really upset Lexi when asked to imagine Trump in the White House. "If you don't vote, then Mr. Donald Trump will be president," she pleaded with viewers. "I don't think that's his real hair, being president. His hair, look at it! Look at it! It's gross. I can't believe that's his real hair." Lexi is not the only person to target Trump's appearance. In an attempt to halt Trump cruising to the Republican nomination, Senator Marco Rubio mocked the billionaire businessman for having "the worst spray tan in America". Evaluators on the roof of a container watch to see how members of the emergency services treat simulated casualties during an exercise run by the London Fire Brigade at a disused power station in east London, Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. The exercise involving the London emergency services is set around a building collapse onto a major London underground railway station. (AP Photo/Alastair Grant) Alastair Grant/AP Emergency service agencies from across Britain launched the largest mock disaster scenario Europe has ever seen on Monday to prepare for the possibility of Boris Johnson ever becoming prime minister. Despite the large scale of the drill, the organisers have jumped to quell any hysteria caused by the alarming images coming from the exercise. Advertisement "We want to ensure the British public that this is a case of being better safe than sorry," police spokesperson Linda Surname told HuffPost UK. "The actual event of Boris Johnson entering Number 10 is incredibly unlikely and we want to be clear that there is no cause for alarm." Bumbling Boris may have had an eye on the Tory leadership and Downing Street for years Hundreds of actors in devastating make up were drafted to set the scene at the drill, which hypothesised the possibility of the nation's collapse at the hands of the top Tory. Ambulance crews have not been involved in the exercise to account for the likelihood of the NHS's disappearance with continued Conservative rule. British sweet and chocolate makers could face a 30% sugar tax if the UK left the European Union, a government analysis of Brexit warns. Ministers have produced the first official analysis of what would happen if the UK voted to leave the European Union at the June 23 referendum. Advertisement The dossier has already been criticised as Project Fear writ large since it warns Brexit would lead to a "decade of uncertainty". But David Cameron later rejected the "Project Fear" tag, claiming instead: "The only project I'm interested in is Project Fact." David Cameron in Ipswich today: "The only project I'm interested in is Project Fact." The document makes a series of arguments, contested by out campaigners, over the negative impact on jobs, trade and free movement. Advertisement One of the most striking suggestions is that British companies that export goods would face paying a new premium to trade with the EU. Currently, British companies pay no levy on exports to the EU. But if the UK voted to leave, and no new agreement could be signed off, exports would have to abide by World Trade Organisation (WTO) rules, which would mean a significant hit for exporters, the document says. It lists sugars and confectionery as facing a tariff of almost 30% and beverages and tobacco of more than 20%. A senior government source told HuffPost UK: It underlines the uncertainty our businesses and economy will face as no-one knows what Leave looks like. Does it mean full access to single market? Or is it some sort of Canadian-style free trade deal? Or is it the WTO option, which involves big tariffs on many products. Advertisement Graphic from government dossier suggesting tariffs UK exporters would face under 'Brexit' James McGrory, chief campaign spokesperson for Britain Stronger in Europe, told HuffPost UK: Those who want Britain to leave the EU are promising a future that is more sour than sweet. "Being in the worlds largest free trade single market means people doing the weekly shop get a good deal as we dont have to pay taxes on imported goods. Likewise, our exporters do not face barriers when selling to the European market. "Quitting Europe would leave shoppers out of pocket, while a vote to remain is a vote for lower prices, more jobs, and a stronger economy." A closer look at the document reveals the word uncertain or uncertainty features eight times in the 23 pages - though seven pages are virtually blank. Here are seven of its most striking warnings. Outside the EU, the analysis questions whether British made products exported to the EU from would face higher tariffs. Advertisement Much of the analysis revolves around Article 50, the clause of the Lisbon treaty that, if evoked, would begin divorce proceedings. In the documents third paragraph, essaying the process, the document sets the tone. The process is unprecedented. No country has ever used Article 50 it is untested. There is a great deal of uncertainty about how it would work. Two million UK citizens live in the EU, and access pensions, health care and other public services, and it says their specific rights to live, work and access to public services and benefits are only guaranteed because of EU law. There would be no requirement under EU law for these rights to be maintained if the UK left the EU, it says. The dossier references how financial services and car manufacturing in particular enjoy the favourable conditions provided by the single market. Advertisement The UK exports 1.23 million cars, more than half to the EU market, which helps support 147,000 people employed directly and a further 300,000 jobs in the wider supply chain. But Brexit could mean a 10 per cent tariff when exporting to the EU unless new preferential access was agreed with the EU. The impact of these negotiations would have a wide and profound impact across the UK and its economy, it says. It warns of farmers losing the preferential access to the European market from withdrawing from the EUs Common Agricultural Policy and other subsidy schemes, and again warns of the EU imposing an average tariff of 14 per cent on agricultural imports, with dairy farmers worst hit. From access trade deals to regeneration funding for poorer regions, to joint action on hostile nations and extremists. Advertisement It says: Sanctions against countries such as North Korea, and for some terrorist groups or individuals, are generally adopted at the EU level rather than domestically. Customs checks would be likely at the Northern Irish border, and questions whether people would be able to travel freely between the north and south. It suggest plaintively: Northern Ireland would be confronted with difficult issues about the relationship with Ireland. UK-controlled Gibraltar could lose the right for its citizens to move freely to Spain and trade there, and cites how the border was closed from 1969 and until Spain joined the EU in 1986. Cameron later dismissed claims that he is trying to scare voters. The PM told students in Ipswich: The only project Im interested in is Project Fact. Project Fact is about saying: Stay in and you know what youll get. The line drew comparisons on social media to the David Brent character in The Office, who argued his superior management style meant: "You will never work in a place like this again. This is brilliant. Fact." Advertisement Cameron as David Brent. "The only project I'm interested in is Project Fact" ie it's a FACT there'll be UNCERTAINTY pic.twitter.com/WszCbjVp8p Paul Waugh (@paulwaugh) February 29, 2016 How David Brent would look fronting the EU "In" campaign The #ProjectFact was born, and was hi-jacked by anti-EU campaigners such as Nigel Farage. '@David_Cameron talks of 'Project Fact'. Fact: he handed over 1.7 billion to the EU after saying he wouldn't: https://t.co/0Mj7TssCbm Nigel Farage (@Nigel_Farage) February 29, 2016 Murray Goulburn not immune to low dairy prices Murray Goulburn says it is feeling the impact of a troubled dairy industry, revealing a slump in net profit to shareholders. The dairy company, which owns the Devondale brand, announced a net profit of only AUD$10 million for the six months ended 31 December 2015. This was a 34.1 per cent drop on the previous 2014 corresponding period. Murray Goulburns Managing Director Gary Helou attributed the drop to low milk prices. The first half has seen the continuation of the decline in Chinese imports of commodity dairy ingredients and the ongoing Russian embargo on dairy imports, said Helou. This has been compounded by increased European milk supply, resulting in a period of significant oversupply in global dairy commodity markets, driving commodity prices towards record lows, he said. Profits do not include Coles contract win The results were for the period before Murray Goulburn was awarded a five-year national contract with Coles supermarkets to supply its private label cheese products. It was announced on 1 February 2016 that Murray Goulburn would be replacing Bega as its private label cheese supplier. Murray Goulburn moving towards higher-margin products Despite a poor environment, Helou believes Murray Goulburn is continuing to perform well with the company continuing to move towards higher-margin, value-added ready-to-consume dairy foods. In Australia, Dairy Foods strong sales growth of 28.1 per cent [when comparing profit results from the six months ended 31 December 2015 with those of the same 2014 period] was underpinned by a surge in demand for Devondale consumer milk powders, dairy beverages sales across the chilled milk and UHT categories and a very strong performance by the food service business, Helou stated. International growth despite tough global climate Murray Goulburn saw sales growth in overseas markets with Helou saying he was pleased that the company was able to expand its Asian distribution strategy. The dairy company has now established joint business plans with Chinese online retailing giants Tmall and JD.com. Murray Goulburn to invest in new infant formula brand Despite increasing competition from numerous competitors taking advantage of demand for Australian produced infant formula, Murray Goulburn said it will soon be launching a new infant formula brand. Our announcement today that we will launch Devondale Natra Start infant formula is an exciting milestone for Murray Goulburn, Helou commented. We expect strong support for the Natra Start range by our customers, particularly those in China, where Devondale is a leading UHT and consumer milk powders brand, he said. Looking ahead, we will continue to drive Murray Goulburns strategic focus on value added and ready-to-consume dairy foods, transforming the business as we progress on our journey to become a first choice dairy foods company for our suppliers, investors, customers and consumers globally, Helou said. Flights had to be diverted and passengers are facing delays after the runway at Gatwick was closed to all flights because of a spillage. Incoming flights were forced to remain in the air and dozen were diverted after the oil spillage which happened at around 10.30am on Monday. Difficulties at London Gatwick airport, many flights are diverting. Follow live: https://t.co/x9HwOITysZpic.twitter.com/dYvxlxkaWD RadarBox24 (@RadarBox24) February 29, 2016 Advertisement The runway re-opened just after 11.30am. A spokesman told HuffPost UK around 12 flights were diverted while delays to departures would continue. He said such a spillage does "occasionally" happen and triggers safety checks to ensure the runway can take planes. He could not comment on the cause. The runway has been closed temporarily due to a spillage on the runway, but will reopen shortly. Gatwick Airport LGW (@Gatwick_Airport) February 29, 2016 Update: some flights have been diverted & departing flights may be delayed. For an update on flights please check directly with your airline Gatwick Airport LGW (@Gatwick_Airport) February 29, 2016 Advertisement He said: "Following the earlier closure of the runway, flights recommenced at 11:38am. The runway closure has caused some flights to be diverted to other airports in the area and there will be delays to some departing flights. Jeremy Corbyn has been accused by a Government minister of grandstanding after speaking to thousands of demonstrators protesting against nuclear weapons. On Saturday, the Labour leader was one of the keynote speakers at the Trafalgar Square rally on Saturday led by the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament, and renewed his long-held opposition to the Trident nuclear weapons system. Advertisement His stance contradicts Labour party policy. But a review being carried out by Shadow Defence Secretary Emily Thornberry, who is also opposed to renewing the nuclear weapons carrying submarines, could lead to the party to backing unilateral disarmament for the first time since the 1980s. Jeremy Corbyn said on Saturday: "You don't achieve peace by planning for war." The Conservative Party think this shows Labour would put the UK's security at risk if to came to power, and even many on the Labour benches believe his position to be wrong-headed in a dangerous world. In the House of Commons today, Conservative defence minster Philip Dunne shoe-horned in an attack on Corbyn when questioned about whether more British steel should be used when the next generation N-subs are built. Advertisement The minister said: I think he should have a word with the leader of his party. On this side we care about both security and prosperity and the he might like to remind his leader grandstanding on Saturday places not only the ultimate security of the country at risk but also the tens of thousands of jobs and the hundreds of companies in the submarine industry at risk. Labour shadow defence minister Kate Hollern said the comments showed the Government was not taking the issue of steel industry jobs "seriously", and pointed to how 60% of steel for British warships is sourced from Sweden. On Saturday, Corbyn spoke alongside Scottish first minister and SNP leader Nicola Sturgeon, who has vowed to banish nuclear weapons from an independent Scotland. Corbyn told the crowd: "We live in a world where so many things are possible. Where peace is possible in so many places. Advertisement "You don't achieve peace by planning for war, grabbing resources and not respecting each other's human rights. "Today's demonstration is an expression of many people's opinions and views. I'm here because I believe in a nuclear-free Britain and a nuclear-free future." The issue is likely to re-ignite for the party at its meeting of the Parliamentary Labour Party tonight, where Trident is likely to be discussed. Labour MP Michael Dugher, who was sacked from Corbyn's Shadow Cabinet, said ahead of the rally: For Jeremy to share a platform with many of Labours political opponents and denounce what is still Labour policy is quite frankly barmy. Advertisement He later tweeted: The Tories must think its Christmas. The Tories must think it's Christmas. https://t.co/kIKx9rRHDi Michael Dugher MP (@MichaelDugher) February 27, 2016 Former Conservative leader Michael Howard Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire Former Tory leader Lord Howard today claimed there is a chance of a second referendum if the UK votes to Leave the EU in June. The Conservative peer, who last week announced he was backing Brexit, believes the European Union could offer the UK a better deal when confronted with the reality of the UK leaving the institution. Advertisement The second referendum option was quashed by David Cameron last week, who likened the plan to a couple beginning divorce proceedings in order to renew their marriage vows. London Mayor Boris Johnson, who appeared to float the idea of a double vote when he came out for Brexit, clarified his position this weekend as being against the plan. But when asked about the possibility on ITVs Good Morning Britain this morning, Mr Camerons former mentor Lord Howard said: What I say, I can only speak for myself, OK, what I say is if we vote to leave there is a chance - I don't say it's a certainty - there's a chance that they might come back and say 'let's talk again', and have a better deal. But there may not be that chance, and if there isn't that chance I'd rather be out than in. The second referendum plan gained traction last week after Mr Johnson appeared to back seeking a new deal with the EU if the UK voted Leave on June 23. Advertisement He was dubbed the Vicky Pollard of British politics for his latest no but, yes but approach to the EU referendum, hinting that an Out vote could be followed a new negotiation and a fresh referendum. In an interview with The Times on Saturday, Mr Johnson backed away from the idea, and said: No. Out is out. He added: What I want is to get out and then negotiate a series of trade arrangements around the world. Mr Cameron used an appearance in the Commons to warn that a second referendum was not on the ballot paper on June 23, before adding the idea of Brussels being forced into a fresh negotiation was for the birds. Lord Howards comments come as a Tory minister campaigning for Brexit launched an almost unprecedented attack on the UK civil service. Advertisement Priti Patel accused the head of the civil service of acting in an unconstitutional manner by restricting the support available to ministers who back Brexit. Priti Patel In a letter sent to the UKs top civil servants, Sir Jeremy Heywood said: It will not be appropriate or permissible for the Civil Service to support Ministers who oppose the Governments official position by providing briefing or speech material on this matter. This includes access to official departmental papers, excepting papers that Ministers have previously seen on issues relating to the referendum question prior to the suspension of collective agreement. Ms Patel, a minister in the Department of Work and Pensions, was furious with the decision and said: It is important that the civil service maintains impartiality during the EU referendum. Jeremy Heywoods unconstitutional act threatens the reputation of the civil service. Advertisement Secretaries of State are responsible for their departments. For an unelected official to prevent them being aware of the information they need for their duties is wrong. Chair of the Public Administration Select Committee, Bernard Jenkin, told the World at One that banning ministers from accessing official documents relating to the EU referendum is not a good basis for democratic debate. Fellow Brexiter and Tory MP Bernard Jenkin warned the relationship between civil servants and ministers could be "permanently damaged" by the decision. Speaking on BBC Radio 4's The World At One, he said: I think we need to ask some perfectly legitimate questions about why certain instructions have been issued which would seem to affect the impartiality of the civil service, affect the accountability of Government departments to parliament and ultimately could see ministers arguing about objective facts, which the civil service have produced, but different facts for different ministers. Police in Moscow have arrested a woman after she was seen walking near a metro station with a child's severed head in her hands. CCTV shows the woman, who was dressed in a hijab, being wrestled to the ground by a police office. She has since been arrested on suspicion of murder. It is believed the woman, believed to be the victim's nanny, is believed to have killed the child before setting fire to its parent's apartment. Advertisement The woman was caught on CCTV outside a metro station where she was said to be holding the head of a severed child aloft The woman, the BBC reports, has been placed in psychiatric care to determine whether she is capable of understanding her actions, the Moscow Investigative Committee said in a statement. Police launched an investigation after the charred remains of a child aged three to four, whose body bore traces of a violent death, was discovered in an apartment in north-western Moscow. Advertisement "According to preliminary information, the child's nanny, a citizen of one of the Central Asian states born in 1977, waited for the parents and elder child to leave the flat and then, for reasons not established, murdered the infant, set fire to the flat and left the scene," the police statement added. Police sources told Russian news agencies that the victim had been decapitated and the head removed from the scene by the nanny. The suspect was named by Russian media as Gyulchekhra Bobokulova, from the former Soviet republic of Uzbekistan. Russia's tabloid news website Life News reported that the victim was a girl. According to Life News, a policeman asked to see the woman's identity documents outside Oktyabrskoye Polye metro station, when she removed the child's head from her bag and threatened to blow herself up. No explosives were found on the woman, the website said. Amateur video posted online shows a black-clad woman outside a metro station shouting the Islamic phrase "Allahu Akbar" (God is Great). Advertisement "I am a terrorist," she cries. "I am your death." Russian journalist Polina Nikolskaya witnessed the incident and told Reuters: "I was on my way to the metro station from home. She was standing near the metro entrance and caught my attention because she was screaming Allahu Akbar. "I saw that she had a bloodied head in her arms but I thought it was not real. People in the crowd said it was real." Other witnesses, the BBC reported, claimed the woman walked up and down outside the metro station for some 20 minutes, shouting and brandishing the head. Alien hunting in our solar system is sadly not the romantic adventure it sounds like. Rather than hopping into a spacecraft and the sticking down a flag, scientists have had to come up with new and inventive ways of finding even the tiniest scrap of life on our neighbour planets just to prove that we're not alone in the universe. Advertisement Scientists carefully sample ground-truth material obtained from the 2.2 meter depth science excavation pit. Mars seems to be one of the most likely prospects however NASA believes that if there is life, it's probably not scurrying around on the surface. Not only is it often minus 100 degrees at night, it's also spectacularly dry. To even have a hope of finding alien life scientists are having to search deeper within Mars. To find this life NASA has finished work on the Atacama Rover Astrobiology Drilling Studies project - a powerful drill which in the future will be able to detect life in even the most hospitable environments. Over 20 scientists found themselves holed up in the ghost mining town of Yungay Station in Chile where the drill was able to power through the arid land and search for organic molecules known as biomarkers. It is these biomarkers that scientists hope to find which will prove that either life currently exists on Mars or did at one point exist on the red planet. A CGI image shows NASA's Spirit rover on Mars inspecting rocks on the surface. Putting life-detection instruments in a difficult, Mars-analog environment will help us figure out the best ways of looking for past or current life on Mars, if it existed, said Dr. Brian Glass. A Christian student has been expelled from Sheffield University after he posted a message on his private Facebook account expressing his views on gay marriage. Felix Ngole, who was studying a masters in social work, was told he was "no longer recognised as a university student" and was "excluded from further study". The university has since been accused of violating the Human Rights Act. Ngole had expressed his support for Kim Davies, a US marriage clerk who objected to issuing marriage certificates to same-sex couples. Advertisement Ngole was kicked off his course for the comments In the Facebook thread, the postgraduate student explained biblical teaching on sexual ethics. Two months later, he received an email from Sheffield saying his comments were being investigated. According to the Christian Legal Centre, Ngole was later told his beliefs "may have caused offence to some individuals" and had "transgressed boundaries which are not deemed appropriate for someone entering the Social Work profession". "Your student record will be terminated shortly and your library membership and University computer account withdrawn," an email from the university said. "You may wish to contact your funding body for advice on your financial position." Advertisement The student is appealing the decision, and says: "The way that I have been treated raises very serious issues about the way students in English universities are being censored in their views and beliefs. If the personal statements of students on their own social media pages, and amongst their own friends are now to be used to judge whether they are 'fit and proper people' to serve in professions such as law, medicine, teaching and social work, then very serious questions need to be asked about the freedoms in the UK. "The university claims my views are discriminatory but I am the one being discriminated against because of my expression of Christian beliefs. I wonder whether the university would have taken any action if a Muslim student who believes in Sharia law, with its teaching about women and homosexuality, had made moderate comments on his Facebook page. I dont think so." Andrea Williams, chief executive of the Christian Legal Centre, which is supporting Ngole, said Christians are being "neutered". "The university's treatment of Felix fundamentally violates its responsibilities under the Human Rights Act. The university has failed to protect his freedom of speech under Article 10 and his freedom of religion under Article 9. Students are entitled to discuss and debate their own personal views on their own Facebook page. Advertisement "Felix has worked with people who identify as homosexual, treating them with respect and not discriminating against them. What he shared on his Facebook page simply reflects biblical teaching on sexual behaviour." Article 9 of the Human Rights Act states anyone has the "freedom to exercise religion or belief publicly or privately, alone or with others". Article 10 gives anyone the right to freedom of expression, however this is a qualified right, meaning there are limitations. GRAPHIC CONTENT WARNING This is the aftermath of a tower block collapsing into a Tube station. The terrifyingly-real staged scene is part of London emergency services' biggest training exercise in its 150 year history. The Unified Response exercise, which included a simulation of a tower block collapsing into Waterloo Underground station as it was packed with commuters, will help prepare emergency crews for a large-scale operation in London. Advertisement Europe's biggest ever disaster training drill saw emergency services team deal with a building collapsing into a Tube station The scene, set-up near Dartford Crossing in a disused power station, will see some 250 people - including medics and fire crews - deal with "blood-soaked" Tube carriages. The emergency exercise was conducted "simultaneously" at four separate venues in central and south east London as well as at the former power station and will last four days. Advertisement According to the London Fire Service the scenario "will be based on a significant building collapse, incorporating heavy transport and mass casualties". Fire crews worked side-by-side with more than 70 partner agencies including local councils, utility companies and specialist search and rescue teams to respond to the mock disaster. Disaster victim identification teams from all UK police regions also joined the exercise, working closely with forensic specialists. One of the biggest disaster training exercises is due to get underway today. @timmuffett is there for us #dartfordhttps://t.co/xB2xYMWYjm BBC Breakfast (@BBCBreakfast) February 29, 2016 Advertisement Great work by the make up teams for #UnifiedResponsepic.twitter.com/plbogyNxJq John Pannell (@johnpannell) February 29, 2016 Advertisement Chief Constable Debbie Simpson, of the National Police Chiefs, told the Evening Standard: "Victim identification is never a pleasant subject to discuss but it is unfortunately a reality. "When disaster strikes families need to be confident that the authorities are doing everything they can to identify their loved ones in a dignified and respectful way, whilst supporting any criminal investigation. The exercise involves over 250 staff and will last four days "Importantly this process cannot be hurried. As frustrating as this can sometimes be, especially in a world of fast paced mainstream and social media, we have to be meticulous in our approach to ensure we achieve reliable scientific identification. "It's not often we get to test working practices on such a scale and it's really positive to see so many of our European colleagues involved. Effective evaluation and debriefing will help highlight good practice and any areas for development." Advertisement The exercise comes after teams from the UK were deployed in recent years to help in the aftermath of the downing of Malaysia Airlines Flight MH17 in July 2014 and the Shoreham Air Crash in August last year. Punishment for wrongdoing must always be justified. It is the infliction of harm on another person, done deliberately, in response to an illegal action. Morality dictates that to punish someone, either physically or by removing their liberty, must be justified in order to distinguish the actions from for example, torture. The state has the power to punish those who break the law, but the parameters of what is acceptable punishment, and who indeed should be punished, are difficult to lay out. Legal philosophers have varying opinions. There are two main schools of thought regarding the justification of punishment; the utilitarian, and the retributive. The utilitarian view dictates that punishment is justified if the result of that punishment is to the betterment of society, or indeed of the person being punished. John Stuart Mill believed goodness was happiness, and evil was unhappiness. The greatest happiness should thus be afforded to the greatest number of people, to truly live in a moral world. The utilitarian approach to punishment fits because crimes are almost universally seen as bad for society. Punishment for those crimes should then bring happiness to a larger group of people than not punishing. Utilitarians see reducing crime as a goal; it is a major consequence of their thinking. Deterrence, incapacitation, and rehabilitation are all ways of seemingly reducing crime. Punishment having the potential power to rehabilitate criminals is seen by many as justification. The offender has committed an immoral action, and needs to be able to expunge that guilt to rejoin society as a moral citizen. The question has the two ideas appearing as opposites- punishment to absolve guilt on the one hand, set against punishment to suffer for guilty behaviour on the other. This polarisation isn't helpful, particularly when you believe that offenders are still part of society. Do they need justifying on different terms? Punishment can be beneficial for society, but it can also help the offender too. Punishment certainly should have a purpose, and retributivism sometimes loses sight of the fact that revenge and suffering cannot be the only reasons for punishment. Advertisement In the book Non- Moral vs Moral Guilt and Bad Conscience, there is a discussion on the nature of guilt for wrongdoing. The author states that "bad conscience and guilt are moralised when they are blamed on putatively innate corruptions of human nature". Guilt is thus undischargeable, as it is part of human nature. Being able to "expunge" moral guilt as the question states might be difficult, and is not necessarily a justification for punishment- not when it cannot be confidently said that guilt is easy to be rid of. Guilt "motivates the agent to respect his self-legislated, life- enhancing standards" according to Nietzsche. Real guilt is caused "not by punishment, but by own experience of failing to respect obligations put on oneself" So it is caused by the feeling of responsibility, and then failing in that responsibility. And as people often feel guilt when they technically have none, the author writes that there is a "deep- seated need to feel power over our own lives". The acceptance of guilt, by accepting a punishment, is a way of "attributing efficacy". Once someone is allowed to feel guilt, it is a sign that morality has returned. A psychopath can feel no guilt, cannot empathise, and it is easy to see how the absence of these emotions can lead to criminal behaviour. The "morality of moral emotions lies in the fact that they stimulate pro- social behaviour". Advertisement A consequentialist would argue that punishment must have a goal to be justified- such as reducing crime. The other school of thought comes from retributivism. The punishment here is an end in itself, as a response to the wrongdoing. Kenworthey Bilz, in What's Wrong with Harmless Theories of Punishment, states that punishment "answers wrongdoing, giving a voice to society's norms and moral edicts." The article aims to demonstrate that the separation of consequentialist and retributive theories is unhelpful. First, it would be prudent to discuss retributive theories further. Kant was a proponent of retributive theory. The Encyclopaedia of Philosophy sums up Kant's view succinctly: "If a wrongful act is committed, then the person who has committed it has upset the balance of the scale of justice. He has inflicted suffering on another, and therefore rendered himself deserving of suffering. So in order to balance the scale of justice, it is necessary to inflict the deserved suffering on him." Kant believes punishment is a just retaliation to wrongdoing. If the old adage "the punishment should fit the crime" is to be adhered to, such retributive views would see harsher penalties for committing crimes than we see now. Murder in the UK would warrant the death penalty. Retributive punishment is considered an expression of justified anger by the victim due to the violation of trust demanded by society. A difference arises between the utilitarian view that punishment is justified for the greater good, and the retributive view that punishment can only be for criminal/immoral behaviour. A utilitarian would have no qualms in persecuting an individual who was innocent, if the result was to overall decrease crime. This is why deterrent- level punishments are attached to crimes, whether the offender deserves a harsh punishment or not. The idea is that people will see the harsh sentence, and be put off the behaviour that led to it. Lots of studies doubt the effects of deterrence. It would also be immoral to punish an individual who is innocent. Whilst Kant would not agree that punishing innocents is justified, his theory has its problems. The idea that punishment is solely for wrongdoing and needs no wider purpose is problematic. Advertisement Gertrude Ezorsky argues that we should test the Kantian position and other retributive positions that resemble it "by imagining a world in which punishing criminals has no further effects worth achieving". In this world, punishment does not deter or rehabilitate. For whatever reason, incapacitation is impossible. In addition, victims receive no satisfaction from the punishment of those who have harmed them. In this world, a Kantian would be committed to the position that punishments still ought to be inflicted upon wrongdoers. Trying to decide which theory justifies punishment more is complicated, and Hart ties together aspects of both theories. The utilitarian view that punishment must serve a wider purpose in reducing crime can be added to the retributive view that only guilty should be punished. Hart believes the social consequences of punishment are important, as well as the need to remain just by ensuring innocent people are not wrongly punished. Whether punishment is justified more by what society feels it is owed or by the rights of the offender being punished being allowed to morally acquit themselves and gain a "clean slate" assumes that punishment is justified at all. Seemingly, the person being punished should be the primary concern regarding the punishment, and the punishment should certainly do more than just make the offender feel bad. That does not serve a societal purpose. In The Case Against Punishment: Retribution, Crime Prevention and the Law, Deirdre Golash argues that "punishment which produces harm to offenders may also be wrong for those who are guilty". The utilitarian view could produce harm in its dogged pursuit of prevention. What good is a society that causes harm while trying to prevent it? Golash is also dismissive of retributive theories. She suggests that criminal wrongs cannot be undone, and doing additional harm to the offender only compounds certain social ills that may be highly correlated with the offender's need for criminal fulfilment. The Moral Good Theory lends itself to the idea that punishment can be justified by what is owed to the offender. This theory seeks to "restore the moral identity of the offender" for a variety of reasons. A proper punishment should reform and educate the offender by " providing him with the moral reasons for conforming his conduct to the law. The author also states that "Retributive theories require punishment irrespective of any socially desirable goals it brings about. Retributive theories often are criticized for being primitive, barbaric, or a mere rationalization for vengeance." In this respect, society's right that offenders suffer is not as important as justifying to the offender his punishment. Advertisement The utilitarian defence of punishment that focuses on its potential deterrent properties can be contrasted with the Moral Good Theory. Deterrence stops an inclination to commit crime, whereas the MGT "focuses on the reasons the offender has in choosing not to commit the crime. When the reasons are moral reasons, the goal of the moral good theory of punishment is achieved." It may be in society's interest that people suffer for the crimes, but it is not in society's interests when people do not learn from their mistakes. Seeing the error of criminal ways is integral to a person assimilating into society after prison. The rehabilitative aspects of MGT mean perhaps that the likelihood of making the same mistakes is diminished. The MGT justifies punishment by what it does for the offender, rather than for bringing about societal goals. Given that the offender is the one taking the punishment, it is right that account of how it may benefit him or her is taken. Attempts to give an offender the chance to "expunge moral guilt" could be said to be consequentialist, in that the aim is surely to ensure the offender does not commit crimes again. The more merciful nature of allowing a person to pay penance for a crime likely endears more offenders to the justice system that retributive aims. "Consequentialism is forward- looking and outcome- oriented". Retributivism is "backward- looking and desert- oriented". At the very least, not taking into account the utilitarian view of innocents being punished in the name of the "greater good", helping to expunge moral guilt is the more progressive idea. Suffering for sufferings sake is pointless, and not befitting of a civilised justice system or society. Retributive attitudes towards punishment cost society greatly. Prisons are overflowing, and cost millions upon millions of pounds to run. Reoffending rates in this country have long stood at two thirds. Where attempts to rehabilitate in Sweden, for example, have seen only one third of people reoffending, the problem is greater here precisely because of the lack of rehabilitation, which is in no small part due to a general retributive attitude towards crime and punishment in this country. Punishment merely so that society gets what it feels it is owed is not much of a justification. Adding a proportionality caveat- that the punishment should fit the crime- does little to dent the view that retributive theories have an element of vengeance about them. A strong argument which supports punishment for retributive ends is that victims of wrongdoing deserve justice. It is true that wrongdoing deserves some form of punishment, if "justice should be seen to be done". Yet what separates a state or justice system from the wrongdoers? Compassion and morality. A punishment that exists simply for the suffering of the wrongdoer does not have much societal benefit. Victims of crime are likely to attest that revenge feels good initially, but ultimately does little to assuage feelings caused by the crime done to them. Advertisement Jeff Vinnick via Getty Images Remember that gung-ho teen who stopped you at the shopping centre for your signature on a petition or donation to a local cause? You might have just met tomorrow's millionaire entrepreneur. Sure, manufacturing and financial services remain an important part of the UK's economy, but the real economic drivers and job creators are entrepreneurs. According to the Federation of Small Businesses, small - and medium-sized enterprises provide 60% of all private sector employment in the UK, which equates to 15.6million jobs. Advertisement Many believe entrepreneurial spirit and skills can't be taught. Certainly that was the opinion of one of Craig's MBA professors. "Either you've got it or you don't," he once opined to Craig. We disagree. You can teach entrepreneurship, and you might be surprised how: through volunteering and being active in social causes. We took a closer look at the business and charitable work of Virgin founder and inveterate volunteer, Sir Richard Branson to back us up. Branson started his first charity before he founded Virgin Some people know that the Virgin brand, currently made up of 500 companies employing 60,000 people in 50 countries worldwide, was founded in 1970 with Virgin Records--a business that Branson started out of the boot of his car. Advertisement But few know that in 1968, two years earlier, Branson had already started his first charity: the Student Advisory Centre. "I started the Student Advisory Centre as a place people could come and talk through their problems," says Branson on virgin.com. The advisory centre counselled young people on all kinds of crises, from matters of law to housing to health. It was born out of one of Branson's early ventures: a magazine called Student, which he began working on during secondary school. Fuelled by activism and idealism, Student was designed to address the social and lifestyle issues that mattered to young people. The magazine never turned much of a profit and most of the staff were unpaid, but it did bring together the team of volunteers that ran the advisory centre - which continues to run to this day. Even more importantly, it was volunteering at the centre and running Student magazine that gave Branson a crash-course MBA. Here are the lessons of entrepreneurship and leadership that he used to build the Virgin brand. Advertisement Lesson #1: businesses solve problems by listening The Student Advisory Centre was a place that young people could come to have someone listen to their problems and take them seriously. Branson regularly sat in the advisor's chair, and learned how to use listening as the basis for offering meaningful solutions to the pain points in people's lives. "To launch a business means successfully solving problems. Solving problems means listening," says Branson on virgin.com. And he would know. He started Virgin Atlantic when his flight from Puerto Rico to the British Virgin Islands was cancelled. It was the last flight out, and the airline didn't even bother taking the time to hear the concerns of its passengers. They were upset, not just because they were inconvenienced, but also ignored. But Branson was listening. He chartered his own plane, and as a joke wrote "Virgin Atlantic" on the airport's flight board, offering tickets for $39. That was the first-ever Virgin flight, and the beginning of the brand's focus on making travellers feel appreciated and comfortable. "It's amazing what doors can open if you reach out to people with a smile, friendly attitude and a desire to make a positive impact," Branson says on virgin.com. Advertisement Lesson #2: businesses need a purpose beyond profit How did Branson get Mick Jagger, John Lennon, Jean-Paul Satre, Jean LeCarre, Henry Moore, Vanessa Redgrave, Bertrand Russel and Peter Blake (designer of the Beatles' Sgt. Pepper's album cover) to make creative contributions to an unproven student publication? He shared a purpose that ran deeper than getting his spreadsheets in the black. "People want to work for a company they are proud of, one whose values they believe in. I like to think that our staff is as proud as I am about the good that our companies do," says Branson in an interview on BDlive. On virgin.com Branson says, "If you are unsure about what your business's purpose is, except perhaps to make money, it might be a good time to rethink your approach." It didn't hurt that he kept morale up by buying his volunteers the odd pint, but the bedrock of his group was a shared passion for the issues they were giving advice about. Lesson #3: helping others breaks down your own barriers Branson has spoken numerous times about the challenge that his dyslexia posed in school. "I was completely hopeless in the class," he says in an interview with Peter Thompson on Talking Heads. "I think my dyslexia just meant that I'd look at a board blankly." Advertisement Secondary school was discouraging for him. When he left at 16, his teachers hadn't given him much reason to believe in his abilities. He didn't hit his stride until after he started Student. "Once I was really working on the magazine, and I was doing something that I was interested in, then I started gaining self-confidence," recalls Branson in his interview with Thompson/ And between directing volunteers at the paper and the Student Advisory Centre, Branson soon learned that while his dyslexia inhibited him at some tasks, it refined his strategies as a leader when he had to delegate certain tasks to others. He said to Thompson, "I think with dyslexics generally, once they realise that they've found something that they can excel at, which often dyslexics can, and they can put aside the areas that they can't excel at, then they find a purpose in life, and they can do really well." It took a project that he cared about - a project with a social mission - to help him find his strengths as a leader. Advertisement Encouraging young people to get engaged and be active citizens will ignite a culture of entrepreneurship in the UK. If we got every student primed by starting their own volunteer initiatives in primary and secondary school, imagine the number of entrepreneurs we could create. It may be the best economic stimulus plan yet. Brothers Craig and Marc Kielburger founded a platform for social change that includes the international charity Free The Children, the social enterprise ME to WE and the youth empowerment movement WE Day. In the past couple of months mental health has well and truly come to the forefront of the UK government; with all political parties talking about how they believe we can improve mental health services and with mental health effecting nearly every department of government, is it time for this government to create a minister for mental health in their cabinet? We have seen in September 2015; Jeremy Corbyn created a position in the shadow cabinet of (shadow minister for mental health,) which saw Luciana Berger MP step up to the mark and start pursuing the government on all things mental health related. So with all of this said why hasn't the government created a minister for mental health? Recently I did a poll on Twitter asking people the question above with 75% of people answering the question believing we do need a minister for mental health with only 25% of people believing that we don't. Advertisement In my opinion this is a very clear endorsement by certain members of the public that we need a minister for mental health. Mental health effects every area of government in varying degrees from our NHS that has seen the highest rise in young people seeking help for mental health disorders. In our prisons where we have seen nine out of ten prisoners suffering from one or more mental health disorders and 95% of young offenders suffering from one or more mental health disorder. With immigration we have seen many immigrants arriving at our shores some of whom will suffer from mental health difficulties, worsened by the ordeal they have experienced. In our schools we are seeing young people suffering from mental health disorders dropping out because there isn't the correct level of support in our education system. Finally to welfare where many young people with mental health disorders are ending up due to not being able to work because of a mental health condition and a lack of adequate support to help them return to education and meaningful work. I could go on and on about every area of government that is effected by poor mental health but the headline figure from 2014 is that poor mental health cost the economy 105.2 billion and this is thought to have risen in 2015 and to further rise in 2016. Advertisement Mental health is too big an issue to not have its own minister to see over all parts of government. I asked a range of people what they thought about a minister for mental health in the current government, Sara Hawthorn; 20 years old from Newcastle said "Having a minister for mental health would be great; someone who would get stuff done; just having a shadow minister is not enough." I inevitably decided to ask a Labour Party member Alex Cheney what he thought of having an opposition to Luciana Berger, he said "Yeah basically it would give people with mental health problems a voice on both sides of the house but I doubt the Tories would ever do it" It's not just Labour party members that are sceptical of the idea of a minister specifically for mental health, Paul Lee Buckley; a conservative councillor says "not a cabinet position perhaps, but a dedicated cross-departmental minister in the Cabinet Office to assess the impact of government policy on mental health." Australia's one-term Prime Minister above ... Events of interest from a libertarian/conservative perspective below The Prime Minister has demanded the Leave side explain their plan for life outside the EU, hoping perhaps we will descend into civil war over multiple options. Well, forgive me if I have a go at an answer. Next month I visit Ottawa with the European Parliament's International Trade committee to discuss the finalisation of the new EU-Canada free trade agreement, CETA (the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement). It is currently subject to 'legal scrubbing' and translation. The European Parliament will vote on it in the Autumn - a straight accept or reject decision. Canada will have access to the EU Single Market and 99% of non agricultural tariffs will be removed. But Canada will not pay any market access fee, no membership fees, not have to enact the legal 'acquis' of 700,000 pages, or sign up to freedom of movement of EU citizens. Canada will retain its impressive visa scheme, continue to seek the world for skilled people to ease its skills shortages, and continue to run Canada for the Canadian people. Advertisement This is the kind of deal that Britain needs to negotiate with the EU. It is what I call a 'WTOPlus' deal: meaning there is a basic guaranteed WTO 'Most Favoured Nation' (MFN) deal now, with a top up free trade agreement on top - that is the 'Plus'. CETA is the Plus on top of the existing EU-Canada WTO deal. Other models based around the EEA or Switzerland could be considered at that point, but that will all follow the Referendum and be subject to discussion. A basic WTO deal would not see the UK 'isolated' as the pro-EU doommongers state - we would be in great company as this is precisely the relationship the EU has now with the U.S., Canada, Japan, India, China, Australia and New Zealand. They all want better WTOPlus deals of their own. So if WTO is guaranteed but includes some tariffs in certain sectors, how do we get a better trade deal? Enter Article 50 of the Lisbon Treaty/EU Constitution. This compels the EU in the form of the Commission to negotiate a 'withdrawal agreement' with a departing member - meaning a comprehensive trade and political agreement. Note that this is contained in a treaty now and does not have the legally questionable status of the current 'deal'. The EU 'shall' negotiate is a powerful legal imperative and is far more enforceable that the Treaty free deal. Advertisement It is difficult for the Government to argue WTOPlus is not possible when they are enthusiastically backing TTIP, CETA and other WTOPlus deals with the EU now under the 'Competitiveness' label of their own deal. As for the process of withdrawal there will be no 'chaos' as has been claimed nor sudden exit. We will not Brexit on 24th June - all that would happen would be recovery from some serious hangovers. We will still be in the EU then and still participating and paying our dues. I will still be in a job. Indeed, we would only leave the EU - by scrapping Ted Heath's European Communities Act 1972 - once a suitable trade deal is in place. I am told that we British MEPs will even be able to vote on this trade deal in the European Parliament before packing our bags. Leaving should be according to an orderly process laid down by the Lisbon Treaty - which allows up to two years for negotiations, extendable if both parties agree. But what if these trade negotiations fail? This is the fear that are EU friends and partners will be 'nasty to us' and seek to 'punish' us, so we must not slip our chains. Advertisement If they tried it would be illegal under international and EU law. But if there was no meeting of minds - and say German car manufacturers and French wine producers were content to pay 8.5% tariffs on cars and 8.8% on wine, then we would simply go back to a basic guaranteed WTO trade deal according to the ultimate arbiter of the global rules-based system: the WTO itself. If the EU does not offer a WTO MFN deal to the UK, the UK can take the EU to the WTO court to enforce it. The EU is not above international law. Regarding future contributions, it is simply not true we would have to pay for access to the EU Single Market. Norway does not pay either - it is misleading to claim it does. I have a clip in my website of the Norwegian Ambassador confirming that in the Parliament. Nor would the UK seek to charge for access to our significant market. What Norway does is to make voluntary contributions (meaning it doesn't have to) to poorer EU nations through a special Norway Grants body independent of Brussels. It also pays fees for membership of EU programmes and agencies as the UK would: we would continue to be a part of the Horizon 2020 Research Programme and European Space Agency, for example, as other non-EU nations are. The UK would still influence significant legislation, but in a different way. At regular intervals a EU-UK Joint Committee would meet, just as the EU-Swiss Joint Committee meets now to discuss matters related to trade, regulation and foreign affairs. Switzerland is the EU's fourth largest trading partner, Britain is the first. Brexit supporters won't say what the alternative to EU membership is. Will it be a free trade agreement? Or the Swiss model? Or perhaps the Norwegian one? There are two reasons for this reticence. One is they can't agree. This is because what is good politically, as it allows more policy independence, is also bad economically, as it reduces access to the European market. Those campaigning for Britain to leave the EU would make this trade off in different ways. The other reason is Leave campaigners don't want to distract attention from the deceptively simple in-out question. As a consequence, we should expect no clarity before 23 June. Advertisement Who then, would eventually decide what 'out' means? Will it be voters? Members of parliament? Or perhaps just David Cameron? The answer is none of the above. It would be the members of the Conservative Party. If David Cameron loses the election he will be called upon to resign and find it hard to resist. He would have lost the confidence of his party and as the person who must lead the negotiation that must follow to take the UK out of the EU and establish a new relationship. His resignation would trigger a Conservative leadership contest, with the winner becoming the next prime minister. Under the rules of the contest Conservative MPs must vote to produce a short list or two or more candidates, with the ultimate choice left to party members across the country. There can be little doubt that following a vote for Brexit, the central issue in that campaign would be Britain's future relationship with the EU. Advertisement For any candidate to be credible they must make it clear where they stand. What's more, if they are to have a chance, that vision must be one that has a strong appeal to Conservative Party members. Whatever you might think of Conservative Party members one thing is clear - they are not representative of the country as a whole, either demographically, geographically, or politically. They are ... conservative. The polling evidence suggests they are likely to prioritise sovereignty and policy independence over economics and access to the European market. This should be of concern to many more business leaders than those who have contributed to the public debate on Brexit so far to explain their company's interests in the issues. The timing of the referendum on Britain's membership of the EU - June 23rd - could not be better for those on the right and far right of the country's political spectrum. With a refugee crisis of biblical proportions lapping up on Europe's shores, and with the collapse of the political centre ground across the West in the wake of the enduring impact of the worst economic crisis since the 1930s, the right has suddenly found itself vying with the left to occupy the political space that has opened up as a result. This, in itself, is no bad thing, as just as the vile reactionary ideas and politics of Donald Trump in the US and Nigel Farage in the UK have gained traction in recent times, so has the socialist and progressive politics and ideas of Bernie Sanders and Jeremy Corbyn in both countries. However, in the context of a referendum on Britain's continuing membership of the EU, we are witnessing an alarming and egregious conjunction of left and right. Let's be brutally frank. There is no viable left wing, socialist, or progressive case for Britain leaving the EU - and certainly not in the current political and economic climate. What there is in truth is a campaign for exit (Brexit) that is dominated by the ugly far right politics of anti immigration, xenophobia, and British nationalism. That section of the left that is also campaigning for Britain exit from the EU, basing their arguments on the anti-democratic nature of its institutions and its neoliberal economic orientation, not to mention increasing militarization, is merely allowing itself to be recruited as an unwitting footsoldier for the right and far right to reveal a catastrophic collapse of judgment, if not principle. Advertisement Jean Monnet's vision of European unity The EU started life as the European Coal and Steel Community (ECSC) in 1951, which later became the European Economic Community (EEC), established by the Treaty of Rome in 1958. The original EEC was made up of West Germany, France, Belgium, The Netherlands, Luxemburg, and Italy in a common market and customs union. It was the brainchild of French diplomat and political economist, Jean Monnet, whose vision of European unity was born of the experience of two devastating European wars by the middle of the twentieth century, and the desire to avoid another by fomenting closer economic cooperation, ties, and integration across the continent between former belligerent states, in particular France and West Germany. "There will be no peace in Europe if the States rebuild themselves on the basis of national sovereignty," the Frenchman said, "with its implications of prestige politics and economic protection." His idea was that member states would cede a little national sovereignty in exchange for peace, and continue to do so until a fully fledged European Union came into being. Today's EU worships at the altar of neoliberalism In 2016 Monnet's dream is a reality in the form of a European Union of 28 member states with a combined population of 500 million people. For obvious reasons, however, Monnet's dream for many of those people across the EU has been a nightmare. For not only is the EU an economic behemoth, the largest single market in the world, it is one dominated by the needs, interests, and prerogatives of finance capital, reflected in political institutions underpinned by a constitution, the Treaty of Lisbon, which legislates that its member states worship at the altar of neoliberalism. Advertisement We witnessed the grievous consequences of this neoliberal hegemony during the Greek crisis of 2015, when the so-called Troika - the IMF, European Central Bank, and the European Commission - forced harsh austerity measures onto the Greek economy and people, while callously dismissing the popular democratic mandate of its government, under Syriza's Alexis Tsipras, to pursue an investment led alternative in order to navigate the country out of the economic depression it was suffering Calls from the far left and right within Greece for the country's exit from the EU rather than continue to be subjected to what the country's former finance minister and economist, Yanis Varoufakis, described as "economic waterboarding", were not shared by the vast majority of Greeks, who understood that Greece's specific economic circumstances meant that going it alone would be as bad, and perhaps worse, than the austerity medicine prescribed by the Troika. The awful events in Greece in 2015 confirmed the extent to which neoliberalism is incompatible with national sovereignty. However this incompatibility is not merely a product of the EU. It is also a factor across the entire Western world, with the exception of the United States for the historical and geopolitical reasons set out by Varoufakis' in his book, The Global Minotaur (Zed, 2015). Most of all it emphasized the need for a pan-European anti austerity movement of sufficient size and strength to mount a serious challenge to the status quo. That one did not and still does not exist does not mean that anti-austerity as counter hegemonic current within Europe is dead, however. In this regard the election of Jeremy Corbyn as leader of the Labour Party last summer by a landslide on an anti austerity platform, is grounds for optimism. Jeremy Corbyn's socialist vision and public ownership Corbyn's socialist ideas and vision for Britain has garnered huge support across the country, attracting record numbers of new Labour Party members with his pledge to take back the nation's railway transport system into public ownership, along with the so-called 'Big Six' energy companies. Corbyn is also leading Labour's campaign for Britain to remain in the EU come the referendum in June. Advertisement Here, on the left, opponents of Corbyn's position claim that public ownership is illegal under current EU legislation. But they're wrong, at least according Article 345 of the Treaty of the Functioning of the EU of 1958, which states: 'The Treaties shall in no way prejudice the rules in Member States governing the system of property ownership.' This legislation remains extant and refutes the claim that existing EU legislation prohibits the kind of nationalization, or public ownership, being advocated by Jeremy Corbyn. But even if it did prohibit it, are we seriously suggesting that in the event that Corbyn gets elected prime minister on a manifesto that includes public ownership that he would not be able to implement it? Nonsense. If David Cameron can negotiate 'special status' for Britain within the EU in areas of welfare benefits and migration, then so can Corbyn on taking key industries and services into public ownership. Britain remains a major economy, not just within Europe but globally, and with that economic status comes negotiating power. But things won't have to go that far given that all across the EU state or public ownership within the transport and energy sectors is currently a fact of life. The EU's role as US gendarme and human rights Another issue of concern when it comes to the EU has been its role as a geopolitical and economic gendarme in service to Washington, specifically in recent times with regard to the crisis in Ukraine involving Russia, the conflict in Syria, and the Iranian crisis. In this regard the symbiosis between the EU and NATO is of undoubted concern, particularly with regard to the accession states of Eastern Europe and how this has raised tensions with Moscow, leading directory to the conflict in eastern Ukraine in 2014. Yet given the longstanding nature of the so-called 'special relationship' between Britain and the US, and the way in which both Germany and France have also established closer ties across the Atlantic over the past decade and more, neither an EU independent of Britain or a Britain independent of the EU would alter the close relationship between either and Washington. If anything, in the event of Brexit, the British political and security establishment would place even more emphasis on its partnership with the United States in order to compensate. As for the eastwards expansion of the EU, there is no reason to presume that this process would cease either. Advertisement Another reason for opposing Brexit is the consequences it would have for Britain's continuing membership of European Convention on Human Rights and the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) which enforces its writ across Europe. Though separate from the EU, the ECHR has been thrown in as part of the toxic brew cooked up by Tory Europsceptics and their far right fellow travellers, led by UKIP's Nigel Farage. Brexit would almost certainly lead to Britain's withdrawal and, with it, the removal of a vital layer of human rights legislation for those who find themselves at the sharp end of British justice. This particularly applies to asylum seekers and others facing deportation to countries where they are in danger of being tortured or worse. For all these reasons and more - workers' rights and consumer protection, etc. - there is no strong progressive case for Britain leaving the EU, despite its many and manifest flaws - not when the beneficiaries should it come to pass will be the ugly forces of reaction and nationalism. The anti-EU left in such a scenario is in danger of finding itself reduced to the role of unwitting footsoldiers on their behalf. The EU referendum was, perhaps understandably, at the top of the agenda at Green Party conference in Harrogate this weekend. Greens often talk about the need for democratic reform of the EU (assuming Britain votes to stay in). But what would it actually look like in practice? I went to the launch debate of the #GreenerIN campaign on Saturday. While it's not clear how the June vote will go yet, if the UK does vote to 'Remain' then we've got some serious reforming to do. Caroline Lucas MP expressed Green sentiment on the issue succinctly in her #GreenerIN launch speech: 'The EU needs to be more transparent and democratic - as does the House of Commons'. We need democratic reform in all our institutions, which are creaking at the seams. Advertisement In the meantime, one of the most pressing issues is getting people registered to actually have their say in the first place. Statistics released last week showed that nearly 800,000 people have dropped off the electoral register across the UK in the past year, in large part due to the shift from household registration to the new individual system of enrolment, IER. That means that our electoral roll is getting patchier and more unequal by the year, with the majority of areas with the biggest drop representing deprived or student areas. Ross Greer, Scottish Greens' spokesperson on Europe & External Affairs said that the Scottish referendum led to 97% registration rate under the old system - with people literally 'queuing outside registration offices right up to midnight in order to sign up to vote'. Generating this kind of enthusiasm about the EU debate will be a big task, but it's certainly not impossible. A clear and positive campaign on both sides - with real visions of what they want to see would certainly help. Molly Scott-Cato MEP said up to now 'the debate is very sterile'. There was plenty of agreement in the audience... But in the debate, Green MEP Keith Taylor emphasised his positive vision for democratic reform of the EU, highlighting: Advertisement The need to strengthen the European Parliament - including giving it the ability to initiate legislation (currently only the unelected Commission can propose legislation) The European Parliament should be able to veto and scrutinise the Commission's work-plan Parliament should be able to choose where it sits - including ending the wasteful and expensive decampments to Strasbourg There are things we can do here and now though - as the UK - to democratise the EU. There's some food for thought from 'Close the Gap' - the Electoral Reform Society's 2014 publication on the need for reform in Europe. Here are 8 things the UK can do - on our own - to democratically reform the EU if Britain votes to stay in: When it comes to Belgium, the most common place to visit seems to be Brussels. I'm going to try and convince you to take a train 30min north of Brussels into Flanders to visit Mechelen for a day (or two) and fall in love with it like I did. Image Credit: Judith Lewis I first visited Mechelen on a clear, bright day in the fall which I realise is not the norm in Belgium given my experience with visiting there, but it made my visit glorious. There is so much to do on a weekend but I recommend staying overnight on a Friday night of you can so that you can experience the Saturday market in the middle of Mechelen. It is open only in the morning and by mid-day it starts to wind down so you'll want to be in the centre of town early for it. You might be able to make it on the earliest Eurostar to Brussles and then a train from there by why rush? Any time is a good time though, with or without the Saturday market - and I'll show you why. Advertisement Image Credit: Judith Lewis Mechelen was settled on the banks of the river Dilje during the Roman period. The cloth trade which was extremely lucrative, gained Mechelen wealth and power during the Late Middle Ages. Women have an important history in Mechelen including Archduchess Margaret of Austria who brought Mechelen to the height of it becoming the capital of the Low Countries (kind of around the areas of the Netherlands, Belgium and Luxembourg) in the first half of the 16th century. They also have a history in beer with some amazing brewsters but that's another story ;-) Image Credit: Judith Lewis The nickname of the people of Mechelen comes from 1687, and is related to their "heroic" attempt to fight the "fire" high up in Saint-Rumbold's Tower. The problem with that fire that tried to fight was that it was actually the gothic windows showing the flaring of the moon between clouds (it's hard to extinguish the moon). Since then Mechelenians have been called Maneblussers (moon extinguishers). Advertisement Image Credit: Judith Lewis Saint-Rumbold's tower where the fire never happened still exists and you can visit it and walk up the 538 steps to view Mechelen and the surrounding countryside from high up. I had the special treat of walking up and being able to enjoy a beer at the top of the tower - the beer named Maneblusser :-) It is absolutely worth the time it takes to ascend though don't make the mistake I did and make yourself dizzy - stop every so often on the first leg and reorient yourself. Image Credit: Judith Lewis Besides the Saturday market which takes over the whole centre of the town, there are also amazing shops, and there is a free guide to help you around the city centre. There is so much to discover about Mechelen and its history of beer and importantly, its history of women involved in brewing, some of whom were religious. Advertisement Image Credit: Judith Lewis The Beguines were women who got into brewing to not only help the sick (water was not safe to drink) but who also brewed beer to sell (and did quite well out of it). There is still a Beguine church though not all Beguines were pledged for life to the church like nuns. This history of beer brewing is continued today in the most famous breweries in Mechelen. Image Credit: Judith Lewis The Het Anker Brewery in Mechelen is probably somewhere I'm a little bit in love with. Here they make whisky, beer, amazing food, and also have accommodation. You can stay here overnight and make sure it isn't far to fall from the pub into your bed. The brewery makes the famous (in these parts) Gouden Carolus beer which is not only available to drink, but also in cheese. Image Credit: Judith Lewis In the town centre is the Schockaeart Cheeses shop selling cheese soaked in Gouden Carolus beer. There are, of course, many amazing hotels in Mechelen including a number along the river where I stayed but hey - staying in a pub sounds awesome too! Advertisement Image Credit: Judith Lewis There are a ton of restaurants in Mechelen when you want to eat and so besides dining at the Het Anker Brewery you might want to try the Honoloelou restaurant with his amazing selection of weird and wonderful beers. Here you are going to experience something different every time you visit and vegetarians will find this a great spot to eat. I cannot believe it's almost March. This year is flying by. I've been feeling guilty for not writing to you more. However I've been hibernating, planning and organising the coming months. Whilst this isn't conducive to articles, it is going to provide loads of content for you very soon :-) Apart from my husky dog sledding and general cold antics in Finland, I've been mostly at home. One cool thing to mention is I've been attending creative writing evening classes (now I've really raised the bar hey!). It's been great to write from my imagination and not just news on my blog. I'd recommend doing anything like this to shake up daily life. Fortunately my health has behaved so far, and I can almost smell spring now. I've had the usual care, equipment, housing and financial anxieties. I guess I'm just learning to focus on what I can effect, and not on the things I can't. It always helps having close family and friends to pick us up during these testing times. Advertisement Work Projects Most importantly my travel plans and work projects are going full steam ahead. There have been some changes. Around the turn of the year I stopped working for Accomable, and am focusing more on Disability Horizons and other projects. Srin and I are still in touch, and I wish him lots of luck with that venture. Blogging and Disability Horizons I'm planning lots of travels (as you'll read later), so my blog will be full of exciting accessible tourism content. Disability Horizons has many new writers and articles on the boil, so keep in touch on www.disabilityhorizons.com with that. Published Author Finally my book is finished. I'm officially a published author! Feel free to purchase 'Everything is Possible' on ebook or paperback here. Please do share with your networks too. It's a travel book all about dreaming big, overcoming mental & physical barriers, and how to achieve your goals no matter what people say. Keynote Speaker In April I'll be speaking at both the SMA Support UK and Naidex conferences. It's a great opportunity for me to share my mission with old and new faces in person. I'm working on an awesome new accessible travel project just for you. This will be announced online just before the SMA Support UK conference, so watch out for that. Also at Naidex I'll be signing my book and having photographs with the Disability Horizons community. Looking forward to seeing you there! Advertisement Consultancy As much as I love being creative and social within my own projects, I am enjoying sharing my skills with others too. Collaboration with Andys Kars, SMA Support UK, Invacare and Lonely Planet are going great. Only next Wednesday I'm taking over the Lonely Planet Periscope from Cambridge. Hopefully you can join me? Travels All work and no play makes Martyn a dull boy! So next Saturday we're treating my mum to a theatre trip in London. Then I'm off to Spain in mid March with Kasia's family. It'll be great to get some sun, warmth, vitamin D and enjoy all the family times. Then after the conference talks and the brand new project launch, I just secured a sponsorship from Brittany Ferries. On 1st May we're sailing to Santander, driving to San Sebastian, Barcelona and Piemonte in Italy for accessible tourism projects. Followed by our visit to Kasia's family in Poland. Unfortunately, for those people who really wanted to debate EU membership and consider voting to leave, they aren't going to get their chance. The referendum has nothing to do with those issues or even EU membership - and for this reason I would encourage everyone of a like mind (to leave) to vote Remain. The date of the referendum has been set and now we face weeks of Tory infighting, of racist headlines in the gutter press, and of Farage and his cabal appearing round-the-clock on the BBC. And how much of that time will actually be devoted to intelligent, factual debate of what the EU is and does, and the reasons why we should remain or leave? Practically none. Advertisement We've already seen that Farage has a strange concept of the truth, so expect nothing from him but the oft-debunked fantasies that he always comes up with. The UKIP front organisations Leave EU and Grassroots Out seem to be running the most overtly racist campaign, claiming a broad coalition of MPs and unions but what actually is nothing more than a handful of characters notorious for their outspoken attitudes, particularly towards Muslims. We've seen the most outrageous statement yet published by a UKIP MEP, who said that we should vote Brexit solely to protect white women from Muslims. They deliberately equate refugees and asylum seekers with the EU immigrants that come to the UK to work - confusing the issues, though only 1,000 Syrian refugees have so far been admitted to the UK. Additionally we've seen the 'Schrodinger's Migrant' - one who simultaneously is homeless yet taking social housing; is unemployed and claiming benefits, yet at the same instant taking a job from a British worker. This week, deputy leader of UKIP, Suzanne Evans, was sacked for the second time. She released a briefing for Brexit campaigners telling them not to mention UKIP or Farage on the doorstep, as these were potential vote-losers. And at the same time, Farage loses his own supporters after inexplicably welcoming ex-Respect MP George Galloway to the campaign. Then there is Vote Leave, which was seen as the more respectable, more conventional campaign, supported by UKIP's MP Douglas Carswell and Green peer Jenny Jones. But Jones quit when Nigel Lawson, a climate-science denier, was appointed as campaign leader. Yesterday, as the Republic counted their election votes, Lawson said that Brexit would give the opportunity for Ireland to be re-incorporated into the UK - this in the centenary of the Proclamation. And one of Vote Leave's campaigners is disgraced ex-UKIP MEP Joanne Atkinson, now an independent who sits in a fascist group in the EU with Marine Le Pen. Advertisement The Tory rebels also seem to have problems with why they are voting to leave. Boris Johnson said that he had spent days agonizing over his decision, yet was unable to name either of the campaigns, and didn't know the difference between the Council of Europe and the European Union. Michael Gove said that Cameron's deal wasn't legally binding - it is. Michael Howard burbled on about an independent UK, about 'British traditions', nothing about any actual reason why people should vote leave. The Leave campaign seems to be irredeemably dominated by the extreme right, campaigning at best solely on the fantasy of a 'green and pleasant' independent UK, something that never existed, and in the ever-shrinking world of the 21st Century, is totally impossible. At worst, we will see an increase in islamophobic attacks as UKIP, aided by a BBC solely concerned with ratings and a right-wing gutter press, make their message of fear and hate ever more venomous. Both sides of the Leave campaign, in reality, have absolutely nothing to do with the EU. They don't seek to educate people about what the EU is or does; what the political dangers or benefits are; they won't mention what the EU did to Greece or Portugal; they won't mention TTIP. Farage and his remaining gang seek power for its own end and will exploit racism and xenophobia to get it. The Tories are fighting to find out who will be crowned the next PM. The leave campaign have found their demographic - the middle-aged and elderly - who always turn out to vote, and know how best to make sure that they do: Fear Nostalgia Patriotism Xenophobia Vote Remain on the other side has none of this populist rhetoric to exploit. They have been trying to prove a negative - saying that the arguments put forward by the Leave campaign aren't true - but once these myths are out there, repeated endlessly, they become impossible to challenge even with the facts. Advertisement Knowing all this, how can a person of good conscience vote to leave, or worse, abstain? A vote for Leave endorses the racist rhetoric, gives a perceived mandate and consequently more power to the extreme right, and ensures that the Tory party will shift even more to the right to combat it. We've seen this already in the way that the Tories fought their campaigns against UKIP in the general election - the very referendum itself is a legacy of this. It is time to recognise that there is a serious problem in the UK, in the treatment of international students. Indeed, after paying unregulated fees through the roof, non-EU international students face an increasingly impossible situation upon graduation. Either we are able to find an employer, willing to sponsor our stay in the UK, in the few months directly after graduation, or leave. This situation creates unnecessary hardships for international students who are often forced to sever personal relationships and abandon life long dreams, while also causing real reputational damage for the sector as a whole. So how did we get here? In the past, we had access to a Tier-1 post-study work visa. This allowed us to remain in the UK and work for two years after our studies. In that period students had the time to find a job, progress, and be sponsored for a longer stay, or build up work experience before returning home. This system was modelled on the Scottish Fresh Talent in Scotland Scheme or FT in short. As its name suggests, FT recognised the positive effect of young, educated, skilled workers from around the world to the Scottish economy and wider society. This scheme was later incorporated in the UK wide Tier-1 system. However, when the Conservative party entered government in 2010, it did so on an especially xenophobic platform. It vowed to slash immigration figures to 'tens of thousands' and achieve a situation where less than 100.000 immigrants enter in the UK every year. The government identified reducing the post-study stay of international students as a key area to achieve this so-called policy. In 2012, the government scrapped the post-study visa and made the achievement of a Tier-2 visa dependent on a 20,300 a year contract - an extremely unlikely reality in the current UK job market for all recent graduates, international or otherwise, especially if the job is based anywhere other than the Southeast of England. Advertisement We, as International students tend to find ourselves dependent on Tier-4 visas, which guarantee us only 4 months post-study stay, and sometimes less, during which we need to find an employer willing to sponsor us. Again, in the current job market, it is highly unrealistic to expect international students to find employers willing to hire international students and pay our extra visa costs in such a short period of time. Indeed, the previous Tier-1 system allowed us to work, develop a relation of trust with our employer and receive a sponsorship further down the line if we so wished. The current situation is a thinly veiled post-study expulsion order. A situation that can get even worse if the government implements the Migration Advisory Committee (MAC)'s recent review of the Tier-2 system. NUS represents over 500,000 international students in the UK. In 2014, we conducted an in-depth research alongside TEN - The Entrepreneur Network - into the perception of international students of post-study employment, a research which we are recommissioning as I write this. The research surveyed nearly 1600 international students. The subsequent report was then submitted to the All-Parliamentary Group on Migration Inquiry into the Post Study Work Route. The research found that 70% of participants responded that 'they would like to seek some form of work experience'. Furthermore, 'almost two thirds (62%) of those who do wish to seek employment in the UK as a graduate, gaining work experience in a particular industry is the main attraction'. However, 32% of those surveyed 'expected to earn below the 20,300 threshold [now 20,800] needed' and '38% responded they would need more than four months ... to find a suitable job after graduation'. Furthermore 'Almost half (48%) of respondents were told they were ineligible to apply for a job because of their visa status.' To add insult to injury, the report found that of all of the international students who did manage to find an adequate job in the short period after their studies 'over a third (35%) had been rejected from a job after making an application because of it'. The situation is therefore clear. Whether we wish to remain indefinitely or acquire work experience before going home, we are being pushed out of the job market. This is not - as the government or right wing press would have us believe - because of laziness or a wish to scrounge on benefits, but because the opportunity to work and contribute to the UK economy and society is being denied to us. In order to chase after catchy headlines and whip up populist xenophobic support for their policies, the Conservative government is shamelessly pushing thousands upon thousands of students out of the country. International students are charged outrageous fees by institutions since there is no cap on the fees we pay and we are expected to pack our bags and go the second we graduate. This cannot continue. Advertisement Unsurprisingly, 35% of respondents to the NUS survey said that 'because of the work experience and employment opportunities available' they would not recommend to others to study in the UK. This number reached 60% and 55%, for students from India and Pakistan respectively, and 47% for Nigerian students. It therefore follows that since the scrapping of the post-study visa in 2012, the number of international students in the UK is falling. Apart from students from China and Hong Kong, there has been a 4.5% decrease across the UK. These numbers cover more severe realities. For example in the same period there has been a 25% drop of Indian students and a 19% drop of Pakistani students studying in UK institutions. These policies are not only unfair, discriminatory, and hurtful to the sector as a whole, there is also absolutely no evidence that focusing on international students has been an effective way to curb immigration numbers in the UK. In June 2015, official immigration numbers reached 336000. This is a situation that we should celebrate. More immigration enriches us as a society, furthers our societal horizons and deepens our knowledge of the world. As students we know that our campuses, our courses, our communal life is made considerably more relevant and positive through the experience of sharing it with people from all over the world. The same is true for our neighbourhoods and workplaces. On February 15 2016, The Scottish Affairs Committee published a report calling for reform to visa rules for non-EU students studying in Scotland who wish to remain in the UK to work after their studies. The recommendations of the report are clear, Scotland desperately needs the Post-Study work visa back. Not only for the reputation of its Higher Education sector, but for its high-tech industries and most importantly, for its long-term economic growth. The International Students' Campaign welcomes this report and urges the government to implement its recommendations, not only in Scotland, but across Britain. Post -Study Work options are necessary for Scotland and as a consequence, vital to the UK. Only last week it was revealed that the government's squeeze on overseas students has led to numbers falling - down from 190,000 to 174,000 over the past year. This can have significant detrimental affects on tertiary education in the UK if the trend continues. Richard Stonehouse via Getty Images There are many in politics who believe that whatever the result of the European Union referendum, it will spell the end of Ukip. If the UK votes to leave? Job done, go home. If the UK votes to remain? Well, Farage et al gave it their best shot but the people have spoken and the issue is settled. Advertisement Either way, Ukip is over, right? If people do think that, they haven't been paying attention. Say the UK does back Brexit. We would then have a period of two years where the Government has to detangle the UK from the tentacles of Brussels. You can bet that Farage will be popping up on a daily basis to put pressure on whoever happens to be the Prime Minister over every part of the divorce proceedings. Leaving the EU does not in of itself guarantee the end of freedom of movement. Brussels may insist it remains as a part of a deal to access the single market. Can you imagine the anger of millions of voters if the UK leaves the EU but does not end freedom of movement? Ukip, and Farage, will be around to repeatedly make this case. Even when a trade settlement with the EU is finalised, there are all those deals the UK will have to negotiate with other countries. Ukip will want to have its voice heard - and citing the 3.8million votes it received in last year's General Election - will claim it has a mandate to lobby on such matters. One of the party's key justifications for leaving the EU is it would allow the UK to reengage with the Commonwealth, and you can expect Farage and others to be calling for deals with those countries to take priority. So a Leave vote does not mean Ukip will retire to its final resting place and wait for someone to read it the last rites. Advertisement Equally, if the UK votes to Remain in the EU, this will not kill off the party either. If the result is close, expect to hear much bellowing that it was an unfair fight, the pro-establishment media happily danced along to David Cameron's tune and people were deceived. Many in the party will hoping that a narrow defeat might actually inspire an SNP-style backlash from voters, and dozens of Ukip MPs will be propelled to Westminster. This is unlikely, however. Unlike the Scottish Independence referendum, there is not a General Election a mere eight months later. Ukip will have to wait four years before putting itself to the country en masse, and any sense of we-wuz-robbed among the general public will have faded by then. But a Remain vote won't kill off Ukip because - like the SNP - it means the party has still not achieved its primary objective. Are Nigel Farage, Douglas Carswell, Paul Nuttall, Suzanne Evans, Patrick O'Flynn all going to walk away from the fight because they lost the referendum? No. They are going to carry on attacking the European Union project as it is what has got them out of bed for pretty much every day of their political lives. Remain or Leave - there is still a role for Ukip on the political stage. It is true that funding may become difficult for the party, as many donors bankrolling Ukip have done so in pursuit of the ultimate prize of Brexit. Once this goal is either delivered or missed, chequebooks may disappear back into pockets. But even without million pound donations, Ukip has hundreds of councillors, 22 MEPS, three members of the House of Lords and still, for now, an MP. Advertisement After the local elections on 5 May - seven weeks before the referendum - the party could have as many as nine members of the Welsh Assembly and even representation on the Greater London Assembly. Will these people all down tools on 24 June if the referendum is lost? No. But more important than this, to think Ukip will disappear after the Referendum is to fundamentally misunderstand the appeal of Ukip. What unites the party and attracts millions of voters is not only a hatred of the EU, but a fierce, relentless, and at times blinkered, patriotism. It is a sense that through cultural compromises the UK has lost its direction and character. It is a sense that the feelings and rights of minority groups are given greater respect and adherence than the ethnic majority in the country. It is a sense that no one really asked people in market towns up and down the UK whether they wanted an influx of migrants to their area. Advertisement Credit: VSO/Peter Caton It's fundamentally wrong that there remains such huge inequality in the world between women and men. It's wrong that women do two thirds of the world's work but only earn 10% of the world's income. It's wrong that discrimination still exists in all parts of public, political and social life. This remains a global issue. No country in the world can claim to be a truly equal society. Even when progressive policies are in place, we have not seen enough improvement in the day-to-day of women's lives. Advertisement When my own mother started working in the UK, companies would force women to resign within six months of getting married because the assumption was they would get pregnant. She was only allowed to work part-time in other roles, because a whole range of full-time jobs were for men only. She had to leave school before her brothers. Gender inequality is a lack of freedom epitomised by unequal power relationships and unequal opportunities. It's staggering that the world has accepted the status quo for so long. Given how ingrained this is, challenging the imbalance is a difficult task. We must remember that equality for everyone is a basic human right, so the fight for gender equality must start with protecting and empowering women's rights. I can't speak on behalf of women around the world, but as CEO of VSO, I can say how our education programmes have empowered women and girls and have helped level the playing field. Advertisement When women are able to earn and control their own money, when they can access healthcare and education and when they are enabled to make their own decisions, the whole community benefits. We can't attain equality until we address the root causes of this injustice, ie, tackling the real barriers that women still face in every aspect of their lives. Whether that's preventing early marriage, supporting them to start a business or making local healthcare more accessible. We don't tackle gender inequality in isolation. We address its root causes in all our programming - livelihoods, education, health and governance. Quite frankly, you can't do good development without engaging half of the world's population. For us at VSO, working with volunteers and local partners is key. They bring new insights and perspectives reflected in our programmes and they stand in solidarity with women who are fighting against a range of issues. We work in Nepal where volunteers are building the 'Sisters for Sisters' programme through a network of role models who encourage girls and families to prioritise education. As a result, nearly 8,000 girls are being kept in school. Advertisement In Mozambique, we are working with mining organisations on the economic empowerment of the widows of migrant miners, through micro-loans and business enterprise training. Now they have the means to provide for their own families and are better prepared to manage life's difficulties. In Rwanda, our volunteers are working with students, parents, communities, education leaders and Teachers to develop an inclusive education system so that girls with disabilities can access a quality education. I want all of our staff and volunteers, men and women, to observe 'International Women's Day' and think about what more they can do to address gender inequality in all its guises. The Sustainable Development Goals are a new set of poverty eradication goals that all governments agreed to at the UN last September. They reaffirm our focus on gender equality and inclusion for all. By embedding the principle of inclusion in everything we do, VSO is committed to becoming a leader in inclusive development. We will investigate and act upon any gender challenges facing our own organisation, the delivery of our programmes and within our VSO family. Gender equality will be at the heart of everything we do and everything we are. Advertisement Inequality disempowers us all. How can we eradiate global poverty without everyone having the opportunity to take charge of their own destiny? The horror of leaders of the Rotherham sex gang who abused young vulnerable girls, revealed in a recent trial, has absolutely disgusted Muslims of Pakistani heritage, despite what the far right fascists may claim. The three brothers - Arshid Hussain, Basharat Hussain and Bannaras Hussain - targeted, brutalised and sexually abused vulnerable young girls over a long period of time without any guilt or remorse. The three brothers have been sentenced respectively to 35 years, 25 years and 19 years in prison for causing "unimaginable harm". The sentencing of six criminals, including two white women who assisted the three brothers, has brought some comfort to the victims and their families that finally justice has been done; albeit the experiences that those young girls suffered can never be erased from their memories. The race and religion of the twisted three brothers has been dragged into the debate. Katie Hopkins recently tweets to say agents "Muslim men raping white women is consistent with the teaching of Islam." This is absolutely absurd as Islam teaches women to be respected, irrespective of their colour, background or faith. Advertisement It is a fact that perpetrators of sexual abuse come from all backgrounds and all sections of society. The recent Janet's Smith review revealed that's BBC missed opportunities to stop "monstrous" abuse by DJ Jimmy Savile and broadcaster Stuart Hall because of a "culture of fear".Sexual abuse is an issue of power and opportunism verses vulnerability, as opposed to Muslim or Pakistani men verses white girls. The victims do not come from any one particular culture or community, and neither do the perpetrators. The recent high profile cases of sexual exploitations have demonstrated that there seems to be a failure at all levels to protect vulnerable young girls and inspire young men to have a moral compass.The focus on race and religion of the perverse criminals detracts from the real issue. The far right is already exploiting such devastating abuse against young girls for their hate-filled aims. We have already had an elderly Muslim man murdered as a result of rise in such anti-Muslim hatred. 81 years old Muhsin Ahmed was viciously attacked in August last year whilst he was on his way to the local mosque in Rotherham. During the trial the court heard that Dale Jones, aged 30, brutally attacked Mr Ahmed calling him a 'groomer' on multiple occasions. The attack was so vicious that the imprint of Mr Jones trainer was left on the victim's fractured skull. Most people in Britain have no time for this kind of hatred and will not resort to attacking an innocent individual to take 'revenge' because of the abhorrent acts of sex gangs. Hatred towards British Muslims remains, thankfully, confined to the nasty margins of our society. But it still exists and attacks have become more prevalent. Advertisement Since the Paris attacks on 13 November, there has been a considerable increase in bigotry and hostility on the streets in terms of verbal abuse and physical attacks against Muslims. Tell-Mama, an organisation which records incidents of verbal and physical attacks on Muslims and mosques in the UK, reports a 300% rise in reports of attacks against Muslims since the devastating events of the Paris attacks. The current rise in Islamophobic rhetoric and abuse is alarming. From murders to planting bombs in mosques should be a concern for everyone in Britain. We should neither tolerate abuse against young girls nor any kind of bigotry against a particular community in Britain. Anti-Muslim prejudice is a matter for everyone who cares about this country and our fair society. The terrible incidents of child sexual exploitation continue to bring shame to our society, and raise some pertinent questions about safeguarding vulnerable in our society. The society needs to learn many lessons from it including: how can we better protect young vulnerable girls (online and off-line)? how can we dismantle the 'systematic models' that the perpetrators have developed to exploit or abuse young vulnerable individuals? British Muslims of Pakistani heritage also need to play their part in exposing any criminals that they may know involved in such abhorrent acts because those young vulnerable girls suffered because of the culture of indifference at all levels of our society. If nothing else, the Health Secretary has cojones. While declaring to the House of Commons the imposition of his widely-condemned junior doctor contract, Jeremy Hunt simultaneously pledged a review into the causes of low morale among junior doctors. He had uncovered, he announced, some "deep-seated issues" relating to our "morale, wellbeing and quality of life which need to be addressed". Talk about fists in velvet gloves. If that man tells us one more time we're the 'backbone of the NHS' while kneeing us in our collective crown jewels, he's definitely heading for some serious 'militancy'. As if to add insult to injury, Mr Hunt next announced that Dame Sue Bailey, the President of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, had been tasked with leading the review "into measures outside the contract that can be taken to improve the morale of the junior doctor workforce". That's right. Measures outside the contract. The man whose contract has turned him into a persona non grata among junior doctors, has specifically excluded consideration of his contract from the causes of our low morale. Advertisement Let's pause for a moment and define 'morale' - helpful in the context of a government hell-bent on pushing through a 'truly 7 day NHS' that they have never, ever, defined to the electorate. The Oxford English Dictionary describes 'morale' as '"the confidence, enthusiasm, and discipline of a person or group at a particular time". In military circles, 'morale', or a unit's 'esprit de corps', is often defined more precisely as the capacity of a group's members to maintain their belief in an institution or goal, particularly in the face of opposition or hardship. If a unit's morale is depleted, they are at risk of cracking and surrendering. An American General by the rather magnificent name of Knickerbocker gave a stirring definition of 'morale' during the Second World War. Morale was high, he said, ""when a soldier thinks his army is the best in the world, his regiment the best in the army, his company the best in the regiment, his squad the best in the company, and that he himself is the best blankety-blank soldier man in the outfit."1 How does that compare to the NHS? My army (my health service) is crumbling around me. Year on year, the government's underfunding undermines the collective efforts of my colleagues and me to provide the public with exemplary care. Waiting lists balloon. My inpatients suffer the perils of rota gaps - arising where doctors have either fled the NHS or been signed off sick, leaving the remaining staff to carry their workloads. My regiment (my hospital) is in deficit. My squad (my fellow junior doctors) have been reduced by sick leave from three to two. And me? Since I'm doing the job of one and a half doctors, I'm too tired to be the best: it takes all my efforts to be safe and competent. Mercifully, last Friday, the Trainee Doctors' Group of Dame Sue Bailey's Academy agreed unanimously to boycott Mr Hunt's pseudo-review. Its terms of reference, they said, would render "a review unable to discuss both problems and potential solutions that have a significant impact on morale and recruitment and retention". Junior doctors, unsurprisingly, are simply not willing to play ball. Advertisement How Hunt's office must have seethed. The government desperately needs this review. It adds an essential veneer of legitimacy to the process of imposing a contract so loathed that 98% of juniors voted to strike against it. One wonders how much money the Department of Health is throwing at the problem of buying our cooperation. Rumours are circulating of the DoH pledging many hundreds of thousands of pounds for this review - unusual largesse for these times of unprecedented austerity. Rare disease is a deceptive term. There are 6,000 to 8,000 different rare diseases. This means that although each one is rare, as a group they are common. So much so, that 1 person in 17 is affected with a rare disease. That is 7%. Until recently, these usually complex and long term diseases have been the second class citizens of the medical world. But now there is an increasing focus on them. It has been a long time coming. For years, people suffering with rare diseases have struggled to be diagnosed, let alone have access to the same expert medical advice and tailored treatment plans that have become the norm for many common long term disorders such as diabetes and heart disease. The change has come thanks in large part to 'patient power' - witness today's celebration of Rare Disease Day, the brainchild of the Rare Disease patient advocacy group EURODIS, to raise awareness of rare disease. Since its launch in 2008 it has spread to more than 80 countries. Advertisement In parallel, strategic responses to the unmet needs of rare diseases have been forthcoming. In the UK, publication of a National Strategy for Rare Disease in November 2013 has been part of the response. Today, an update from the UK Rare Disease Forum has been published, showing progress so far and what work is still to be done. The government also funded our ground-breaking 100,000 Genomes Project, which aims to transform healthcare for people with rare disease and cancer. About 80% of rare diseases have a genetic cause. The cause is often a single changed 'letter' amongst the 3.2 billion letters of DNA that make up the human genome. Finding that one crucial change is often like finding a needle in a haystack. This first crucial step - identifying the cause of the disease - has remained challenging until now for most rare diseases. In turn, this has prevented medicine from answering the obvious next questions for rare disease patients: what should I expect in the future? Why has the disease happened? Is there a way of curing my disease or any hope of doing so in the future? Will my child have the disease? The 100,000 Genomes Project is an opportunity to break the mould for patients in the NHS. We will sequence DNA from patients with rare disease and their relatives. By comparing their sequences with people without the disease and by tracking the inheritance of DNA changes through families, we can find the cause in people who medicine has failed to diagnose until now. No-one has ever attempted whole genome sequencing on this scale before. Much of our work until now has been in establishing the tools and infrastructure we need to deliver results to 100s of participants a week. Advertisement Thirteen 'NHS Genomic Medicine Centres' have been commissioned to act as recruitment hubs, each with a network of local recruiting hospitals. Here, participants are identified and consented by local clinical teams and DNA samples and standardised medical data collected. The sequencing itself is performed in a purpose-built facility near Cambridge before the genome sequences are analysed alongside the medical data in a secure, monitored data centre. The scale of the task is only possible because of the great power of the new sequencing technologies and computing. As Spiderman tells us 'with great power comes great responsibility' and it is with this sense of responsibility that we approach the work: both driving us to capture every ounce of available expertise and to exert the necessary caution when patient's lives are influenced by the outcome of our analysis. The Project bioinformatics team have established the core analysis 'pipeline', which is further enhanced by the input of genome annotation partner companies. This analysis infrastructure is supplemented by the expertise drawn from a collaboration of more than 2,000 academic researchers from across the UK and the world who form the 'Genomics England Clinical Interpretation Partnership' (GeCIP for short) and from the clinicians at the recruiting hospitals as they receive the sequence results and return them to the participants. But the aims of the project do not end at interpretation of genome data for diagnosis. The GeCIP research community seeks also to understand the processes that lead to the diseases and to develop precision medicine approaches to their treatment. To enhance the speed with which potential treatment benefits can reach patients, we have established a unique partnership between our academic and NHS partners and companies from pharma, biotech and diagnostics. Through this collaboration, we are developing approaches that will reduce the length of time from the first identification of a cause of a condition to the development of life changing treatments. As the British winter rages on, it's natural that thoughts start to turn to sun, sea and sand. The laid-back lifestyle on offer in Spain has always appealed to Brits, but it's fair to say the property market there has had its fair share of problems. British buyers investing in Spanish property were among those who had their fingers burned during the economic downturn, but things are now back on the up in the Spanish market, with great bargains and high rental yields on offer to savvy buyers looking for a place in the sun. There are many reasons why Spain has returned to the top of the list for British home buyers and investors over the last twelve months. Here's some of the best. Advertisement Climate Spain is the perfect place to rid yourself of those winter blues, with over 300 days of sun each year. If you're looking for a relaxed pace of life away from the hustle and bustle, look no further. Tip: Do your research before you pick a location. The north and north west of Spain can see substantial rainfall, while the southern regions have a great winter climate but can be incredibly hot in the summer. Cost Despite the recent upturn, house prices in Spain remain well below their 2007 peak, with bargains to be found both on the coast and in the cities. The cost of living is also considerably less than in England. Tip: Always visit potential properties yourself and consider using a local estate agent to learn about the different types of property available in your chosen area. Advertisement Transport With great value, regular flights from across the UK, Spain remains the most accessible place to buy a home overseas. Tip: Areas that are easily accessible to UK visitors can offer better rental yields during the busiest periods. If you are looking for a long-term buy-to-let investment, you'll need to factor in other expenditure such as management costs. Community Spain is a diverse country with lots of different types of location to choose from. So whether you're looking for an authentic Spanish experience or prefer to be part of a friendly expat community, you're sure to find something that's right up your street. Tip: Spend some time staying in your desired area to get a first-hand experience of the local community and culture. Always think carefully before jumping in - buying a house can be an emotional process, so it helps to take a step back to consider your options. Ease of purchase Buying in Spain is easier than in many other countries, with mortgages more readily available and a system that encourages overseas purchasers. As with buying any home, you'll should always do plenty of research and consider the additional costs. Advertisement Tip: Always seek independent mortgage advice before rushing in to anything, and never feel pressured by the sales tactics of eager agents who are working on behalf of the seller. Anyone who loves newspapers will be hoping that The New Day, the latest addition to our news stands, proves a roaring success. Launched by publishers, Trinity Mirror, Britain's first new stand-alone newspaper for 30 years is hitting the streets just weeks before The Independent and Independent on Sunday breathe their last, retreating from print to disappear into online obscurity. I must declare an interest. As a senior executive on The Daily Mail and The Sunday Telegraph for the best part of 25 years, newspapers are in my blood. I read them every day. I take them seriously. I care about them. Advertisement Sadly, I'm one of a dying breed - so does The New Day have a realistic chance of succeeding in an era of plunging circulation and cut-price advertising, which has shredded the business model of every newspaper? You have to admire Trinity Mirror's chutzpah. The paper will have a presence on social media, but isn't bothering with a stand-alone website. Very retro. It will be a streamlined, stripped-down operation with a team of around 25 journalists headed by editor Alison Phillips, who already has a day job as weekend editor of The Mirror. Costs will be kept to a minimum and Trinity Mirror's publishing clout will doubtless allow advertising to be cross-sold across its titles. Yet hearing Phillips and Trinity Mirror chief executive Simon Fox outline their vision for the new paper made me worried. It won't be a "red-top", instead targeting readers in the (very large) gap between The Sun and The Guardian. It won't have a political standpoint, a leader column or any in-built bias. It will present the news in digestible bite-size chunks. It will only be published on weekdays and have no weekend edition. Advertisement Sound familiar? That's because exactly such a paper already exists. It's called Metro. When I was editor 15 years ago, it was distributed to almost one million readers. Today, it's picked up by 1.35 million in cities across the United Kingdom and is the third most-read paper behind only The Sun and the Daily Mail. The big difference between Metro and New Day is one's free and the other will be sold for 50p. On my commute into London, I am frequently the only person in my carriage reading a paid-for newspaper. When Metro was launched in 1999, critics claimed it would cannibalise the market. We denied it at the time, but it's a prophecy that has come true. Similarly, The Evening Standard has only revived its fortunes since becoming a give-away. Once readers are used to getting their daily paper for nothing, it's hard to make the case for a 50p newspaper with no intention of offering original or pioneering content. The success of The Independent's sister paper, i, was based on its cut-price model: the same quality content at a fraction of the price. That can't be said of New Day; 50p is not an especially competitive price for a mid-market title aimed at the 35-55 audience. Advertisement Every newspaper needs a USP and New Day's will be its cheery, optimistic outlook. It will not "terrify" its readers with sensationalist stories, its editor promises. Instead, it will make them feel good about the news. Former BBC News reader Martyn Lewis once pushed this "good news" agenda and was widely derided for it. Actually, I applaud it. My younger self believed that murders, sex crimes and gang attacks were what readers wanted. Now, I'm a member of New Day's target audience and a father of two, grubby court cases are the last thing I want to read at the kitchen table. So I wish New Day good fortune - and good look sticking to its mantra on the day of a terrorist attack or refugee catastrophe. According to Fox, it will be targeting "women and men". Teased by John Humphrys about this, he said his words were deliberately chosen to indicate an emphasis on targeting female readers. On 2 November 2014, the Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal convicted and condemned Mir Quasem Ali to "be hanged by the neck till he is dead, under section 20(2) of the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973". I say that he was convicted and sentenced omitting intentionally that he was 'tried' as the process is far removed from any notion of a 'trial'. Mr. Ali was not the first person to be convicted by this Tribunal - and he's unlikely to be the last. A year before, on the night of 12 December 2013, Abdul Quader Molla was executed in a Dhaka jail. He became the first but sadly not the last member of the Bangladeshi opposition hanged as a result of an inherently unfair judicial process before the Tribunal. Although the international community initially applauded Bangladesh with the establishment of the Tribunal to bring a process of justice and accountability for the international crimes committed during the 1971 War of Liberation, the hopes for justice quickly transformed into outrage for the grave and persistent violations of due process being committed before the Tribunal. Advertisement The crimes in the Statute were ill defined, the accused were deprived from their most basic human rights guaranteed by the Constitution, and scandals of political interference and governmental manipulation of the judicial activity tarnished the credibility of the Tribunal. The Government continues to laud itself on having created the most transparent war crimes tribunal, but regrettably it is in a minority of one. It is not to be lauded. It is to be be confined to the history books as a miserable attempt and a missed opportunity. The judgments and sentences handed down by the Tribunal, and rubber stamped by the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court, riddled with mistakes, legal inaccuracies and an inquisitorial narrative, fall woefully short of international standards of justice, and stay far from the level of legal expertise, impartiality and fairness expected from a modern judicial process. A simple reading of Mir Quasem Ali's sentence demonstrates the gravity of the numerous violations of due process rights during his trial. He was sentenced to death on a single count, but the Tribunal failed to specify the particular conduct that justified Mr. Ali's severe punishment. The Tribunal mentioned, first, that he had "planned and instigated" the crime; later in the text, it declared that he had "abetted and facilitated", and finally the tribunal convicted him for his "complicity". Therefore, it is not possible to determine what was the purported role of the accused in relevant legal terms, and consequently, it is therefore not possible to positively determine whether the Tribunal applied the correct definition of the conduct, of the standards of evidence and punishment. Advertisement Additionally, and more worryingly, the Tribunal reversed the burden of proof, concluding that "the plea of alibi has to be proven with absolute certainty so as to completely exclude the possibility of the presence of the accused elsewhere. This statement reversed a very basic and fundamental rule of criminal law and placed an insurmountable obligation on the accused, in which he had to prove his innocence "with absolute certainty". In the famous case of of Woolmington v Director of Public Prosecutions [1935] AC 462 the House of Lords, as per Viscount Sankey, the Lord Chancellor, delivered the famous 'golden thread' speech in which the Court confirmed that "...it is the duty of the prosecution to prove the prisoner's guilt..." and that "No matter what the charge or where the trial, the principle that the prosecution must prove the guilt of the prisoner is part of the common law of England and no attempt to whittle it down can be entertained." Further, in Attorney-General's Reference (No. 4 of 2002) [2005] 1 AC 264, Lord Bingham said - "...it is repugnant to ordinary notions of fairness for a prosecutor to accuse an accused of a crime and for the accused then to be required to disprove the accusation on pain of conviction and punishment if he fails to do so." These and other injustices and errors led Mir Quasem Ali to appeal his conviction before the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court of Bangladesh. The Court will deliver its verdict in the coming days. It has been obsewrved in earlier appeals that the Honourable Justices of the Supreme Court have confirmed the decisions taken by the Tribunal without sufficiently enquiring into the safeness of the convictions on fair trial considerations. Nonetheless, during the appellate process of Mir Quasem Ali, the public gallery and the assembled media observed an unprecedented discussion between the Chief Justice and the Attorney General, appearing on behalf of the Prosecution. Advertisement The Chief Justice declared to feel "really ashamed" and frustrated about the manner in which the Prosecution had conducted the proceedings and carried out its investigations. He claimed that the Prosecution had been incompetent in its functions and in its responsibility to prove the case; as, despite its access to abundant resources and the full support of the Government, the evidence presented was worryingly insufficient to support a conviction. Only one witness's testimony was being provided to prove a charge of an international crime, which was manifestly inadequate and excluded any possibility of corroboration. The Attorney General attempted to justify these shortcomings alleging that the accused may have intimidated the witnesses or paid lobbyists, an accusation that was quickly rejected by the Court. Moreover, the Court noticed that the evidence of a number of victims and witnesses had been confused in the material provided to the Court, and that the Attorney General had not provided any documentary evidence that could prove that the Appellant was in Chittagong, the scene of the crime relating to charge 3, at the time the offence allegedly took place. In contrast, according to newspapers the Attorney himself submitted, the Appellant was delivering a speech in Dhaka on the same date. Therefore, it is quite evident, as the defence argued, that Mir Quasem Ali could not have committed the offence. Furthermore, the Attorney General made superfluous and unfounded assumptions when presenting his case, for example, assuming that two citizens were acquaintances simply because they shared ideological beliefs. At the same time, the Attorney denied having knowledge that "there was a tribunal sat up in 1971 to try the local collaborator"; however, interestingly, a prosecutor from the 1971 proceeding testified that "the appellants' names were not there" at the time of the initial prosecution and agreed that the accusation against the Appellant "was a creation of this government out of political benefit". Advertisement During the discussion with the Attorney General, the Chief Justice acknowledged that the trials "are being used for political interests" and that the Prosecution manipulates the "sentiments" in the media and television, thus mocking and ostracizing the judicial process. He complained that no actions were taken against corrupt prosecutors signalled in previous proceedings and held that it hurt them "to hear this kind of appeals". The Attorney General, echoing the Government's narrative of blind arbitrary vengeance, only responded calling upon the Court not to "give any benefit to the Appellant" that may allow him to "escape punishment". Several voices in the International Community have already condemned the 'judicial' process in Bangladesh. Highly reputable organisations such as Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch and International Commission of Jurists have expressed grave concern about the legality and justice of the trials. In the United States, former U.S. Ambassador for Glpba; Criminal Justice, Stephen J. Rapp, issued a strong statement at the end of last year criticizing the serious flaws in the proceedings. The United Nations and the European Union and has consistently opposed the imposition of the death penalty by the Tribunal and condemned the executions, which also were the focus of widespread attention in the UK House of Parliament and U.S. Congress, where several of its members promoted motions condemning the executions and questioned the Government's commitment to justice. However, these statements have proved to be insufficient to halt the irregularities and abuses of due process. Justice must be done in Bangladesh, but not at the price of arbitrariness and political interference, which will only lead to deeper division. Advertisement Squalid hovels; flooded tents; expanses of mud, rubbish, and faeces: the conditions of the Calais 'Jungle' are truly awful. Indeed, in a recent Upper Tribunal decision, Mr Justice McCloskey stated that the camp's conditions are "about as deplorable as any citizen of the developed nations could imagine." According to a recent census carried out by volunteers, there are currently 5497 refugees living in the makeshift camp, a number that has been gradually increasing over the last year. It is no wonder, then, that the French authorities have finally decided to address the problem: on the 12th of January, refurbished shipping containers supposedly able to hold about 1800 refugees were introduced into the camp. Soon after this, a huge swathe of the camp was bulldozed and many refugees were moved into the new accommodation. Of course, the fact that these refugees now have secure and sanitary housing is a good thing, but by no means does it solve the problem. Advertisement In fact, on Thursday evening a French judge gave the local authorities the green light to demolish the southern part of the Calais camp. They estimate that 800-1000 residents would need to be relocated to the containers or to alternative centres of accommodation located around France. But these numbers wildly underestimate the true population of this area, in which about 3455 refugees currently reside. With only 1156 alternative places presently available across France (as claimed in court), this eviction could leave hundreds of refugees stranded. To make matters worse, the French have stated that once the southern section of the camp is cleared, they will begin on the northern section, which houses 2042 residents, including 137 Syrian households. The greatest victims of these demolitions are, without a doubt, the children. Latest figures show that there are 651 children living in the Jungle, 423 of whom are unaccompanied. These children are vulnerable to dangers like trafficking, violence, exploitation, and abuse, not to mention the risk of carcinogenic disease caused by the toxic white asbestos found throughout the camp. It is estimated that 50-100 of these unaccompanied children have close family in the UK, explaining their presence in the camp. Under the current Dublin Regulation ("Dublin III"), if an unaccompanied refugee child has a relative with protection status in another EU member state, they can request to be reunited. The EU member state might then make what is known as a "take charge" request to the other member state in respect of the child's protection claim. The child would then, in theory, be admitted into the country and reunited with family. Advertisement All sounds great, doesn't it? But there's a catch. The legal advice offered in the Jungle is relatively limited, despite the hard work of volunteers, and unsurprisingly, unaccompanied foreign minors are not legally competent to make a claim for asylum. These claims must be made on their behalf by a legal representative (appointed by a state-funded agency), and the process of registering a child's asylum application takes at least three months. Indeed, the whole process of addressing "take charge" requests can take up to a year, making it a long and difficult procedure for anyone, particularly a child traumatised by war and violence. The complexity and red tape involved in the process perhaps explains why, during the whole of 2015, France made only 4 "take charge" requests to the UK, and none related to unaccompanied minors. But this is where Article 8 of the 1998 Human Rights Act comes in. Article 8 states that, "Everyone has the right to respect for his private and family life..." Making use of Article 8, the aforementioned Upper Tribunal ruled that three child refugees and one adult refugee with a disability should be admitted immediately into the UK from the Jungle in order to be reunited with family members. The Upper Tribunal also stated that, in cases of similarly vulnerable refugees, the same course should be followed. This means that a large number of the children in the Jungle have a legal right to live across the Channel. That's why we need the government to introduce a physical presence of immigration officers in Calais who are ready, willing and able to give assistance and advice, ensuring that those minors who can assert a credible claim can make an application for asylum in France, so that they can then be admitted into the United Kingdom. These actions would be consistent with the Upper Tribunal ruling in January ("Zat") and the UK government's August 2015 promise to monitor the camps in France for vulnerable individuals, offering advice and support in their applications for asylum in France, a commitment that has thus far been overlooked. Advertisement Citizens UK have details of all the unaccompanied children who fall within the Zat principles: all they need is for the UK government to take control of the situation so that young boys and girls, lost in the alien world of Northern France, can be reunited with their loved ones. The government must act if it wants to avert the possibility of a true humanitarian tragedy, a tragedy which would involve young children dispersing from the camps to become the victims of abduction, abuse, and worse. We enjoyed an extra day of February, though Congress still hasnt provided any budgetary offsets for Obamas calendrical giveaway . China is laying off 1.8 million people from its coal and steel industries, meaning, per Donald Trump, President Obama isnt the only one who isnt winning at China -- China isnt winning at China. And tomorrow is Super Tuesday, prompting reporters to pre-write something theyd never thought theyd rewrite: [TK RUBIO DICK JOKE]. This is HUFFPOST HILL for Monday, February 29th, 2016: CAN MARCO RUBIO HAVE IT LOL? We asked some comedians. Rob Delaney said no: "He will never be funny. He has no conviction, no authority, no confidence. Mitt Romney is funnier," said Delaney, who also listed Trump, President Barack Obama, New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie and former President George W. Bush as occasionally funny political people. But not Rubio. "You have to care about something to be funny," Delaney said. "What does he care about? Advancing his career? He has no other defining qualities or characteristics."...Neal Brennan, who co-created "Chappelle's Show" and currently is doing a stand-up show called "3 Mics," also said no. "I think this is the lowest hanging fruit that Rubio can find. And I dont think it is going to help because I think Rubio is too little and sweaty to win. He is the Latino Bobby Jindal. But I think it is his best shot."... Travon Free, who writes for "The Daily Show," said there is a joke -- perhaps too risque though -- that would work. And one that clearly drove Trump insane when they used it: mocking his weird infatuation with his daughter Ivanka. "Nothing else sticks. No matter what you say, he has a comeback for it or he dismisses it or he hits you hard," he said. "This is how you destroy Trump. Talk about the fact that he wants to bang his daughter. That is a weird thing for someone who wants to be president." [w/ HuffPost's Sam Stein] Advertisement Enjoy this video of Donald Trump telling Chris Christie to get on his plane and go home. TRUMP OUTPACING ROMNEY - Failed candidate Mitt Romney can't even outpace a sociopath with a terrible haircut. Sad! Natalie Jackson: "Businessman Donald Trumps support among Republican voters has hit a new national high of 49 percent, according to a CNN/ORC poll. By contrast, the party's nominee in 2012, Mitt Romney, didnt reach 49 percent in a poll until mid-April of that year. As YouGovs William Jordan noted, Romneys highest polling number prior to that was 40 percent, which he achieved once in mid-January 2012 and once at the end of February. Support for Trump has been over 40 percent in the last four national polls, and flirted with the 40 percent mark in some polls in early December. Single polls can vary considerably, though, so a better metric is how Trump is performing relative to Romney in the polling averages. Here, too, Trump has the advantage...Trump is averaging over 10 percent more support than Romney was at this point in the 2012 cycle, and has consistently outperformed Romneys polling averages since September. The gap was narrower at the beginning of this month -- Trump was averaging 36 percent support compared to Romneys 30 percent in 2012. But Trumps numbers have risen quickly in recent weeks." [HuffPost] Bright slice of humanity: "The U.S. Secret Service and local law enforcement briefly detained a TIME photographer at a Donald Trump rally at Radford University in Virginia Monday, following a scuffle that saw the photographer thrown to the ground in a choke hold. Chris Morris, a veteran White House photographer working on the campaign for TIME, stepped out of the press pen to photograph a Black Lives Matter protest that interrupted the speech. A video shows that Morris swore at a Secret Service agent who tried to move Morris back into the pen. A separate video of the event shows that the agent then grabbed Morris neck with both hands and threw him into a table and onto the ground." [Time] Best thing about Marco Rubio's rally yesterday in Purcellville, VA: Former Virginia AG and gubernatorial candidate Ken Cuccinelli, a Cruz surrogate, was loitering in the press pen by himself, handing out a statement after the event wrapped up. Advertisement DELANEY DOWNER - Congress now has a big opportunity to do something about lead. People might be more aware of the problem of water lead than ever -- 58 percent of Americans surveyed by HuffPost/YouGov in January said they had been following the Flint water crisis at least somewhat closely. A search of national polling archives suggests that, prior to Flint, little effort had been made to measure awareness of the problem. Ten million American homes still get their water from lead pipes. And what will the Flint-inspired legislation percolating in the Senate do about the problem? Not much. [HuffPost] Does somebody keep forwarding you this newsletter? Get your own copy. It's free! Sign up here. Send tips/stories/photos/events/fundraisers/job movement/juicy miscellanea to huffposthill@huffingtonpost.com. Follow us on Twitter - @HuffPostHill CLINTON PICKS UP BIG ENDORSEMENT FROM CHC - No, not the Capitol Hill Club. That'll come after Trump's nomination. Elise Foley: "Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton received an endorsement Monday from the political arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus. The CHC BOLD PAC endorsement comes as both Clinton and opponent Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) are vying to win the Latino vote, which could be pivotal in Super Tuesday primary states like Texas and Colorado. Both candidates sought an endorsement from the group, which helps elect candidates who support Latino issues. They chose Clinton in an internal vote that concluded Sunday, according to Rep. Tony Cardenas (D-Calif.), the PAC's chairman. He declined to reveal the vote tally, but it's safe to say it swung heavily Clinton's way, since a majority of Congressional Hispanic Caucus members have already endorsed her, and only one of them, Rep. Raul Grijalva (D-Ariz.), has endorsed Sanders." [HuffPost] Behold the cartoon villain that is quite possibly Ted Cruz. DEM STRATEGISTS WANT TO POACH GOP MODERATES - All six of them. Kyle Cheney: "Democrats are drawing blueprints for stealing GOP moderates from a rightward-driving Republican Party, saying the heist is key to scoring a White House win in November. Democracy Corps Stan Greenberg, a prominent national Democratic pollster, released data Monday morning that suggest moderate Republicans nearly a third of the GOP base are being ignored by their presidential candidates. These Republicans dont revile Planned Parenthood in fact, many prefer the womens health group to pro-life groups and candidates who take hard-line stances on abortion. Theyre supportive of same-sex marriage. Theyre not enamored of the NRA. They have less rigid attitudes about sex. They accept climate science[a] poll shows that GOP moderates may be pliable and that Democratic efforts to corral GOP votes shouldnt end with just looking for moderates. The results show that Catholic Republicans are similarly out of step with the Republican base. Theyre less hostile to government regulation and generally agree that those making more than $250,000 a year should pay a lot more in taxes." [Politico] Advertisement SOCIAL CONSERVATIVES LEAVING STICKS AT HOME - Alex Roarty: "[Activists'] assessment is blunt: Leading social conservative organizations are either too cozy with congressional leadership or simply dont understand the importance of, when necessary, playing rough with lawmakers who vote against them. The consequence is a tangible feeling, on Capitol Hill and beyond, that stepping out of line on issues such as abortion rights and gay marriage carries less of an electoral penalty than defiance on issues such as taxes. Thats because the latter will earn the ire of such well-funded groups as the fiscally focused Club for Growth, which has a well-known history of defeating Republican incumbents...In two other Republican primaries this year, featuring Ohio Sen. Rob Portman and Rep. Scott DesJarlais of Tennessee, social conservative groups have also failed to mount a serious effort against incumbents who defied them on key issues. Portman came out in favor of same-sex marriage in 2013, a decision that earned him vows of retribution from gay marriage opponents, while DesJarlais -- among a long list of transgressions -- has acknowledged having twice urged his wife to have an abortion." [Roll Call] LOUIE GOHMERT MIGHT LOSE AND WE DON'T KNOW WHAT WE'RE GOING TO DO - OK, he'll probably win, but we still don't even like to think about a special order speech session without the Gohmster. Cristina Marcos: "Rep. Louie Gohmert (R-Texas), one of the most colorful and conservative lawmakers in the House Republican conference, is facing a primary reelection challenge for the first time in his career. On Tuesday, Gohmert will face two rivals hoping to end his 12-year legislative tenure. Both argue Gohmert has become an 'embarrassment' to the deep-red Texas district because of his wild statements on the House floor and on television and stints like a long-shot bid for Speaker against John Boehner. 'I think hes an embarrassment to east Texas,' rancher Simon Winston told The Hill by phone. 'Hes not getting anything done.' 'Hes an embarrassment. Its a thing that comes up over and over when youre talking to people,' said Anthony Culler, Gohmerts other rival on Tuesday. Gohmert is nonetheless seen as the favorite to win on Tuesday, thanks to the wide name recognition he commands as the incumbent." [The Hill] HOW THE MILITARY WEIGHS CIVILIAN DEATHS - Ali Watkins: "One day last year, a team of U.S. soldiers working in the militarys special operations drone program sat tucked away in a secret facility discussing the rapidly accelerating campaign against ISIS. One of the operators was asked about collateral damage assessments in a war that is rooted in U.S.-led airstrikes and that is increasingly being fought in urban centers cities still crowded with those who have not joined the millions who have fled places like Syria and Iraq. ISIS, meanwhile, has used that to its advantage, moving military assets into cities to hide them among the remaining civilians. How, a U.S. intelligence official asked, did they decide when there were too many civilians present to risk the strike? 'As long as its under 10,' a soldier said, 'were good to take the shot.' [BuzzFeed] BECAUSE YOU'VE READ THIS FAR - Here's a baby wombat . COMFORT FOOD - China is laying off 1.8 million people. - The best Leap Day discounts. TWITTERAMA @mviser: Donald Trump to a protester: Are you from Mexico? Are you from Mexico? Are you from Mexico?" @joshgreenman: I'm old enough to remember when people worried about Chris Christie's, John McCain's and Rudy Giuliani's temperament. @berniethoughtsIF YOU SHOWED A PACKET OF OSCAR MAYER BRAND TURKEY SLICES TO AN ALIVE TURKEY WOULD IT KNOW Advertisement On the Sunday before Super Tuesday, Donald Trump did something that would have been a serious misstep for any other campaign, and yet it was lost in conversations about renounced, or un-renounced, KKK endorsements and Hillary Clinton's rout of Bernie Sanders in South Carolina. What happened was simple. Mr. Trump retweeted a quotation that had been tweeted at him a little after six in the morning. The quotation in question certainly sounded like something The Donald would say: "It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep." But there was a problem, and the twittersphere quickly figured it out. Italian fascist Benito Mussolini was the guy who first said it. Advertisement I'm pretty sure that's not the kind of messaging you want right after the former leader of the KKK endorses you. During his appearance on "Meet the Press" only a few hours later, Chuck Todd asked the Republican presidential frontrunner about that tweet. "Mussolini was Mussolini," Trump said. "What difference does it make whether it's Mussolini or somebody else? It's certainly a very interesting quote. That's probably why I have, between Facebook and Twitter, 14 million people when other people don't." Asked if he wanted to be associated with a fascist, Trump said, "No, I want to be associated with interesting quotes." I think Chuck Todd missed an opportunity here. Instead of focusing on the message--a regrettable one for most sentient beings--Todd could have asked Trump about the dangers inherent in a would-be world leader who doesn't see a pitfall until he's crashed through it. And the fact here is that you would really have to be not looking at all for something like this to transpire. Advertisement It should be noted here that I'm not in the business of blaming the victim--quite the contrary--but I think in this instance, it is warranted. We're not talking about a citizen being tricked into providing personal information. This wasn't an instance of phishing--though it resembles one in so much as it relied on an unthinking, impulse click. The would-be POTUS must be held to a much higher standard than most of us, one that is in line with the zero-margin-for-error job at stake. Even at the most cursory inspection, it was clear that @ilduce2016 was a parody account. Many of the tweets are downright silly (and famously attributed to Mussolini), such as "A nation of spaghetti eaters cannot restore Roman civilization!" Then there's the fact that "Il Duce," or "The Leader" in Italian, is a common name for Mussolini. But just in case that fact is lost on the casual observer, the account avatar featured a picture of Mussolini with Donald Trump hair plopped on top of it. It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep. @realDonaldTrump #MakeAmericaGreatAgain ilduce2016 (@ilduce2016) February 28, 2016 Here is Mr. Trump's retweet: "@ilduce2016: It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep. @realDonaldTrump #MakeAmericaGreatAgain" Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 28, 2016 At least one news organization touted the elaborate set-up that tricked the GOP juggernaut, but there really wasn't much to it. In fact, Gawker editor Alex Pareene was able to sum it up in a direct message to his colleague Ashley Feinberg: "a twitter account that tweets mussolini quotes but credited to trump, and just keep tweeting them AT trump until he eventually retweets one." Advertisement While "elaborate" is a stretch by any measure, morning may have been a deliberate choice on their part if they discerned that Trump retweets more first thing in the morning. (There is no readily discernable pattern in the account's 1900+ tweets.) It's conceivable that at six in the morning, the presidential hopeful might, still groggy, have mistaken the dead fascist for a fellow traveller, and he was unconcerned about the details. Details matter With the exception of Ashley Feinberg of Gawker (her email is right under her avatar), Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, Ben Carson, and U.S. Fascist Movement, the twelve people followed by @ilduce2016 were Trump and his people. That should have been enough information. Next there are the tweets. Another one read, "We have buried the putrid corpse of liberty." If Donald Trump saw all this and still retweeted that "interesting quote," we should be even more worried. I am not suggesting that this particular tweet gaffe rises to the level of Hillary Clinton's email problem, which I discussed in a recent article. It should go without saying that there is a difference between the potential damage associated with someone sending an idiotic tweet, and a world leader more concerned with convenience or information control than information security. That said, cybersecurity is a crucial issue to homeland security. It matters, and yet with the exception of former Virginia Senator Jim Webb trying (and mostly failing) to get some airtime for the subject during early debates, it has not been discussed much in this election. Advertisement By Alexander Jutkowitz, CEO of Truffle Pig, Colloquial and Group SJR An invisible thread connects some of the world's biggest pop stars and their mega-hits, from Britney Spears "...Baby One More Time" to Katy Perry's "I Kissed A Girl" and, more recently, The Weeknd's "Can't Feel My Face." That thread is Max Martin, the Swedish songwriter who wrote these and many more of the most memorable hits from the past two decades. You may not recognize his name - a testament to his strength as a ghostwriter - but as marketers, we can learn a lot from Martin. Martin has the Midas touch for melody, creating earworms that are impossible to ignore. When I think about how to succeed in marketing, I think about what it takes to write people's favorite songs. I think about how to create those rich and deep sounds that harmonize together and touch us in inexplicable ways, giving rise to different emotions. A brand's narrative must touch on the same principles of harmony that our favorite songs do. Every beat of the song, every sine curve, is a message. And together, each of these individual messages aligns to create something memorable, catchy, and enriching. These are precisely the attributes we need to bring out in a brand's story. Advertisement If our messages, just like the sine curves, are rich and deep, they have a profound ability to resonate with audiences. I call this rich and deep communication "RAD Serialization." Serialization speaks to our desire to target audiences with the same messages over and over again. And the good news is that audiences are receptive to repetition. But that doesn't mean we have to be boring or drone on and on. It means we have to be creating content that is rich and deep on a regular, ongoing basis. Digital media today is constantly flowing, with information organized in streams; from a Google search results page to our Facebook and Twitter feeds, and on video-based platforms like Snapchat and Periscope, we are increasingly consuming information in a flow. The famous quote on impermanence, "No man ever steps in the same river twice," applies perfectly here. Media in today's age is ephemeral, and what's viral today will be usurped tomorrow by the next diaper clad chimera. The antidote to this ephemeral age is RAD Serialization. RAD Serialization is a reminder that our messages, although repeating, can't be generic. They need to be counterintuitive and surprising, and incite emotion - the same principles Martin uses to create his mega-hits. Advertisement As the New Yorker stated, Martin's Backstreet Boys songs use "major and minor chords in surprising combinations (going to a minor chord on the chorus, say, when you least expect it), producing happy songs that sound sad, and sad songs that make you happy." Similarly, to stand out in the streams of information, we also need to create the unexpected. But of course, even the raddest message won't break through if our sine curves don't continue to flow. As marketers, we can't let our messages stop or we risk losing our audience's attention. The song will end, and our audience won't be able to hear us. In order to resonate with audiences, you have to make sound. And to make sound, you need to make waves. These waves flow into the streams of information where our audiences are consuming content, connecting with them and fostering an ongoing relationship. That's serialization. But to truly connect, don't forget the rich and deep part. It's our job to communicate with our audience, and satisfy their craving for knowledge. In other words, never stop being rad. This blog is written solely by John Ray, who has a Ph.D. degree in psychology and 200+ papers published in the academic journals of the social sciences. It does occasionally comment on issues in psychology but is mainly aimed at giving a conservative psychologist's view on a broad range of topics. There are very few conservative psychologists.The blog originated in Australia and many (but not most) posts discuss Australian matters. Australians have an unusually good awareness of events outside their own country. Australian newspapers feature news from Britain and the USA not as an afterthought but as a major part of their coverage. So Australians do tend to have a truly Western heart, which is the reason behind the old name for this blog. So events in Australia, Britain and the USA all feature frequently here, plus occasional coverage of other places, particularly Israel.SCOTUS is the Supreme Court of the United States, the highest court in the landThe "GOP" stands for "Grand Old Party" and refers to the Republican party. The GOP is at present center/Right, while the Democrats have been undergoing a steady drift Leftwards and now have policies similar to mainstream European Leftist parties.The ideological identity of both parties has however been very fluid -- almost reversing itself over time. In the mid 19th century, the GOP was the party of big government and concern for minorities while the Democrats advertised themselves as "The party of the white man" -- an orientation that lasted into the mid 20th century in the South. The Democrats are still obsessed with race but have now flipped into support for discrimination AGAINST whites.Was Pope Urban VIII the first Warmist? Below we see him refusing to look through Galileo's telescope. People tend to refuse to consider evidence if what they might discover contradicts what they believe.Climate scientist Lennart Bengtsson said. The warming we have had the last 100 years is so small that if we didnt have meteorologists and climatologists to measure it we wouldnt have noticed it at all.The term "Fascism" is mostly used by the Left as a brainless term of abuse. But when they do make a serious attempt to define it, they produce very complex and elaborate definitions -- e.g. here and here . In fact, Fascism is simply extreme socialism plus nationalism. But great gyrations are needed to avoid mentioning the first part of that recipe, of course.Beatrice Webb, a founder of the London School of Economics and the Fabian Society, and married to a Labour MP, mused in 1922 on whether when English children were "dying from lack of milk", one should extend "the charitable impulse" to Russian and Chinese children who, if saved this year, might anyway die next. Besides, she continued, there was "the larger question of whether those races are desirable inhabitants" and "obviously" one wouldn't "spend one's available income" on "a Central African negro".Hugh Dalton, offered the Colonial Office during Attlee's 1945-51 Labour government, turned it down because "I had a horrid vision of pullulating, poverty stricken, diseased nigger communities, for whom one can do nothing in the short run and who, the more one tries to help them, are querulous and ungrateful."The book,, authored by T.W. Adorno et al. in 1950, has been massively popular among psychologists. It claims that a set of ideas that were popular in the "Progressive"-dominated America of the prewar era were "authoritarian". Leftist regimes always are authoritarian so that claim was not a big problem. What was quite amazing however is that Adorno et al. identified such ideas as "conservative". They were in fact simply popular ideas of the day but ones that had been most heavily promoted by the Left right up until the then-recent WWII. See here for details of prewar "Progressive" thinking.R.I.P. Augusto Pinochet. Pinochet deposed a law-defying Marxist President at the express and desperate invitation of the Chilean parliament. He pioneered the free-market reforms which Reagan and Thatcher later unleashed to world-changing effect. That he used far-Leftist methods to suppress far-Leftist violence is reasonable if not ideal. The Leftist view that they should have a monopoly of violence and that others should follow the law is a total absurdity which shows only that their hate overcomes their reasonFranklin Delano Roosevelt was a war criminal. Both British and American codebreakers had cracked the Japanese naval code so FDR knew what was coming at Pearl Harbor. But for his own political reasons he warned no-one there. So responsibility for the civilian and military deaths at Pearl Harbor lies with FDR as well as with the Japanese. The huge firepower available at Pearl Harbor, both aboard ship and on land, could have largely neutered the attack. Can you imagine 8 battleships and various lesser craft firing all their AA batteries as the Japanese came in? The Japanese naval airforce would have been annihilated and the war would have been over before it began. FDR prolonged the Depression . He certainly didn't cure it. WWII did NOT end the Great Depression . It just concealed it. It in fact made living standards worse Joe McCarthy was eventually proved right after the fall of the Soviet Union. To accuse anyone of McCarthyism is to accuse them of accuracy! The KKK was intimately associated with the Democratic party . They ATTACKED Republicans!People who mention differences in black vs. white IQ are these days almost universally howled down and subjected to the most extreme abuse. I am a psychometrician, however, so I feel obliged to defend the scientific truth of the matter:The average African adult has about the same IQ as an average white 11-year-old and African Americans (who are partly white in ancestry) average out at a mental age of 14. The American Psychological Association is generally Left-leaning but it is the world's most prestigious body of academic psychologists. And even they have had to concede that sort of gap (one SD) in black vs. white average IQ. 11-year olds can do a lot of things but they also have their limits and there are times when such limits need to be allowed for. America's uncivil war was caused by trade protectionism . The slavery issue was just camouflage, as Abraham Lincoln himself admitted . See also here Leftist psychologists have an amusingly simplistic conception of military organizations and military men. They seem to base it on occasions they have seen troops marching together on parade rather than any real knowledge of military men and the military life. They think that military men are "rigid" -- automatons who are unable to adjust to new challenges or think for themselves. What is incomprehensible to them is that being(to use the extreme Prussian term for following orders) actually requires great flexibility -- enough flexibility to put your own ideas and wishes aside and do something very difficult. Ask any soldier if all commands are easy to obey. Marco Rubio's insistence that he will win the GOP in Florida on March 15 skips past bad facts with respect to GOP voters in the center of the state and on both Florida coasts. Massive releases of polluted water from Lake Okeechobee out to both Florida coasts are roiling voters who might otherwise be inclined to vote for Rubio. The pollution coating Florida's coasts is due to water management practices that favor, first and foremost, the source of Rubio's main political support: Big Sugar. Simply put, 450,000 acres of sugarcane have stayed mostly dry under the pressure of historic rainfall while property owners and voters pay the price. An online social media revolution is stirring up and linking constituencies -- from fishing guides, to realtors, and homeowners who depend, one way or another, on tourism-related jobs. The key point: these are conservative voters inclined in Florida to vote Republican. Advertisement In the past, a quiescent mainstream media isolated populations aggrieved by pollution. Fort Myers, on the west coast, didn't care much about what happens in Stuart, on the east coast. Palm Beach County didn't link up with Lee County. Facebook and Instagram and websites like Bullsugar.org are drawing hundreds of thousands of viewers to scenes of devastation along Florida's rivers, bays and waterways. The costs of pollution link straight to Marco Rubio. While in the Florida legislature, Rubio was a transactional politician. Although best known for carrying Jeb Bush's water in the legislature, Rubio's main achievements were on behalf of directing funding toward water management and infrastructure protective of his key constituency: Big Sugar and Big Developers who depend on the state moving copious rainfall from their backyards. Taxpayers mostly pay the price. A revealing moment was captured in New Hampshire, when a fellow Cuban American from Miami questioned Rubio. For many years, Rubio has been a climate change denier, refusing even to meet with scientists. Rubio tells Maribel Balbin in Spanish: We will mitigate our way out of climate change the same way we did with flooding in West Miami twenty years ago. Marco Rubio came to political life in a small city council in West Miami. The lessons he learned about the environment is that there is political profit in directing taxpayer investment to the benefit of developers who depend on reliably draining boggy farmland or open space. That is exactly how Rubio responds to Maribel Balbin: the solution to climate change is "mitigation". Advertisement The failures of storm-water mitigation is the faulty premise at the heart of what is upsetting so many Republicans on both Florida coasts today. To Rubio, mitigation doesn't mean protecting the rivers and bays. It means protecting Big Sugar, from whence cometh his help. The signs say, "Florida is Marco Rubio Country", but on March 15, the signs will point in another direction. February 29 marks the ninth annual Rare Disease Day, a worldwide event devoted to raising awareness of more than 6,500 rare diseases, of which less than 5 percent have any available treatment. We spoke with Dr. Steven Walkley, director of the Rose F. Kennedy Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Research Center and professor in the Dominick P. Purpura Department of Neuroscience at Albert Einstein College of Medicine, about his rare disease research and why he encourages his graduate students and postdocs to meet children and families affected by rare conditions. This interview was conducted by Sunita Reed, multimedia producer at Einstein. Einstein produced a video in 2014 about your research on a drug, cyclodextrin, to treat the rare disease Niemann-Pick type C, featuring the Marella family, whose young son Andrew was in a clinical trial at the National Institutes of Health. Can you give us an update on the results of the clinical trial? In fact, the news is very positive. Actually, a summary of the phase I trial will be presented by the lead physician, Forbes Porter, at an upcoming meeting of the Lysosomal Disease Network. There is every indication that the cyclodextrin treatment is significantly slowing the disease in children who are under treatment. The NIH of course supported all of that phase I study and it has now partnered with a commercial group, a company called Vtesse, that has taken over the phase II-III trial. The company is presently enrolling patients via multi-site recruitment worldwide for that phase II-III trial. Advertisement Have there been any challenges with the clinical trial? The phase I trial has been carried out at the Medical Center at NIH and I'm not directly involved in that. But a group of us who have been linked to the phase I study, including NIH personnel, has bimonthly teleconferences to focus on what's happening with the trial. As with any new drug, there are some issues that have come up, one of which is pretty widely known: ototoxicity, meaning the drug causes some problems with hearing. So far I think in the phase I trial it's not been a major problem. But it's an issue that has to be carefully followed as we go into phase II-III, as the dosage of the drug will be increased. Where does the drug stand within the FDA approval process? Just a few weeks ago the drug received breakthrough status from the FDA, which means that the FDA will provide senior administrative leadership to help the company navigate the drug through this critical phase II-III period. It's a very positive development and is based largely on the success of phase I as well as on the very solid preclinical data that came out of my lab and other labs at the University of Pennsylvania and UT-Southwestern. How would you answer critics who wonder whether funding should go to the study of rare diseases, since by definition these are conditions that affect a relatively low number of people? Advertisement Early in my career when I was working on rare diseases and they weren't as widely appreciated, study sections often responded by saying exactly that: "Why are you working on such a rare disease? Why don't you work on Alzheimer's?" But to me rare diseases are experiments in nature. They are disruptions in metabolic pathways, genetic for the most part, and by studying the outcome of that disruption, that is, by studying the disease, we can learn more about how the normal brain or other organs function. In doing so we may also gain insights into more prevalent diseases, for example Alzheimer's which has certain features in common with Niemann-Pick type C. On the human side, too, we need to understand rare diseases so we can better develop therapies for them. What do you think is the most impressive advance or trend in rare disease research in, let's say, the last five years or so? Well, certainly in the last five years there has been a consolidation around the recognition of the importance of rare disease. The U.S. now celebrates Rare Disease Day just as Europe and the rest of the world do. So there's that sort of broader appreciation; there's also the leadership of Dr. Chris Austin, the director at NCATS -- the NIH institute that's heavily focused on rare disease -- and on therapy through its Therapeutics for Rare and Neglected Diseases (TRND) program. Many basic researchers who work on diseases or conditions spend their entire careers without meeting anyone who suffers from them. You've got a different view. And, in fact, you encourage your graduate students and postdocs to get involved with the children and families who are affected by these diseases. Why is that? When I was much younger there was an organization called Science for the People, and I don't know what happened to that group, but the idea of it never really left my head. I mean, this is what science is for, right? It's to help us understand the world and help us understand disease as well, and by doing that help people who have these diseases. So I started out early in my career very much focused on questions that I had about the diseases I was working on, but it was only after I'd been doing this for a number of years that I happened to finally meet some families. This showed me the reality ... that the models we were working on were models of real diseases that real people had, and families were affected and individuals were affected. And it enriched my experience by getting to know these families. You learn very quickly about human nature and the meaning of love in a family by understanding what they go through. It's not that I think as scientists we need more motivation, but it's valuable to have this experience with the families. Advertisement How do you encourage your students to get involved? I'm on the scientific advisory boards for a number of the family organizations for different lysosomal diseases, and I go to these meetings periodically. When possible I invite my students and postdocs to go with me. We also participate in fundraising activities for many of the groups -- bike-a-thons, walk-a-thons. And my students have become engaged beyond my wildest expectation. So we're really quite involved with the families. A number of the parents and the kids are friends of mine. It's just the way it's become. *** Woman practicing a gentle form of Yoga at waters edge. Gyrokinesis: not a meat-filled wrap, but a unique lifestyle that promotes healthy living. The University of Texas at Austin is among the first universities to have a class dedicated to Gyrokinesis - a movement method that exercises the mind and body while creating functional strength through rhythmic, flowing sequences. Advertisement Each class begins on chair with gentle movement to open up the senses and fluid spinal motions to prepare the body to explore more complex movements with agility, and ease. We attempt to gain "soft focus" with the eyes to take in all our surroundings and soak in nutrients from the environment. Inhaling deeply while sinking our sit bones into the edge of the chair and lifting the skull off the spine, we lengthen the back and allow space between each joint. Imagine the spine as a hollow shaft of bamboo. Throughout the various Arch and Curl series, the goal is to keep lengthening the spine. This method was developed by Juliu Horvath, a Romanian-born Hungarian dancer. After injuring his Achilles during his time with the Houston Ballet, Horvath began practicing meditation and yoga. He explored profound energetic experiences for six years on island of St. Thomas in the Virgin Islands in 1977 and developed "Yoga for Dancers." This system includes the exploration of energetic pathways in the body. He returned to New York and began teaching the system to professional dancers. As the demand for his classes increased, Horvath refined his system to fit people at all walks of life and called it the Gyrotonic Method. Gyrotonic and Gyrokinesis quickly became internationally renowned to encompass over 7800 trainers in 52 countries. Gyrokinesis is based on a philosophy that the body has its own energy pathway and through circular movements and breathing we can open those pathways. Rigorous stretching complement therapeutic mobility to encourage muscle relaxation. Joints release tension on their own time. Through circular motions, Gyrokinesis increases core strength and creates flexibility in muscle fibers. Advertisement Just one month in, I leave each session with an ethereal vitality that lasts throughout the day. Not only do I remain exhilarated throughout the day, the incessant fatigue in my body diminished. Gradually flowing from one move to the other, the choreography is beautiful and pleasurable to perform. Here are the benefits of Gyrokinesis: You develop an agile mind and body. You can cure that 40-year-old shoulder or prevent it from happening. Even Regis and Kelly gave it a shot! So to wrap things up: Jada Pinkett and Spike Lee called for a boycott of the Academy Awards for reasons best expressed in the #OscarSoWhite Twitter conversation. In short, advocates argue that the Academy Awards repeatedly fail to recognize people of color in terms of their artistry. As a result, there were some people declaring to boycott the event. A little while ago, I read a conversation thread where some people weighed in on whether or not a boycott made sense as a social justice strategy. Some even argued against the racialization of nominees as, in their opinion, nominations are based on talent, not on race. Of course this conversation moved me. As a centrist, often wading in the critical space of seeing both sides, I seem to have some strong opinions and I want to go on record by offering the following points. Advertisement First and foremost, as stated by Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and quoted here: You can't talk about solving the economic problem of the Negro without talking about billions of dollars. You can't talk about ending the slums without first saying profit must be taken out of slums. You're really tampering and getting on dangerous ground because you are messing with folk then. You are messing with captains of industry... While I used this quote to talk about the profits associated with the achievement gap, I think it also pertains to this #OscarSoWhite discussion. As long as those very same people who were aiming to boycott the show allow their hard earned money to be channeled into the show's industry, on some level the boycott would be counterproductive. The problem has more to do with the economics of supply and demand that is based on an undisclosed racial bias. Not only is this racial bias undisclosed, it is buried deep within an American psychology of white is right, white is beautiful, and white is universal. When that psychology has the backing of an economic system, there exist a seal that a simple attendance boycott cannot penetrate! As referenced by D.L. Hughley on his Facebook page, "You can't boycott a place you weren't invited to." My second point, which almost negates the first, is that boycotts are a necessary step in raising awareness. Reverend Sharpton said it eloquently, as I quoted him here, "Sometimes you've gotta show out to get people to show up." The boycott that Jada and Spike were soliciting won't do anything to disrupt the structural forces that influences the #OscarSoWhite phenomenon; however, it did bring attention to the bigger problem of Hollywood reducing the scope of talent to a point where black actors, black directors, and black writers are restricted to the margins, giving them very little visibility. The boycott may not have changed the problem, but it put the Academy on public notice that there is a problem. Advertisement My final point is that black face is not power. In the conversation thread that inspired this post, several people argued that the Academy is not all white (in that its president is black and the host and producer for this year's show are black). This argument was made to negate the potency of the #OscarSoWhite Twitter movement and to offer a red herring (a misleading distraction). It is deceitful to pretend that these positions are evidence of a colorblind institution. It willfully ignores the relationship between race, decision making authority, and profit. The problem is not about representation. It is about power. Racism (along with sexism, classism, etc.) is a system that maintains current distributions of power. When the policies, psychology, and economy are favorably rooted in the current distribution of power, representation is simply aesthetic and nothing more. And truthfully, this notion of representation is questionable because those three roles (the host, the producer, and president of this year's Academy Awards) are not voting representatives. Even if those voting "peers" were more diversely represented (which seems to be the Academy's newly declared promise for moving forward), the system is still grounded in an inherently biased economy. Having more diversity does not represent equity until we are financially invested in a different psychology of worth. As I close, I am distinctly aware of my own internal contradictions as an emerging cultural critique. For reasons stated in a post about the people of color designation, I grow weary of giving people a racial frame. Being identified as a black woman is complex and loaded, and sometimes exhausting. I am not proud when I find myself distinguishing people as black or white (as I did here in a conversation about black and white teachers). But, the reality is that we live in a world that is not yet neutral when it comes to race. Failing to acknowledge race gives weight to a system that does. While it no longer is overt, the true weight of racism is in its structural intricacies linking selective standards (and psychology) of worth with economic advantages. In the end, here is my position. I don't think an attendance boycott would have disrupted the system but it may have challenged the psychology of those who economically benefit from it. It is that disruption (a psychological one) that will challenge all of us in how we spend our money. The national debate over America's immigration policy has a cyclical nature to it, tending to spike during political seasons where the posturing is long on emotion but often short on substance. We all know, however, that a comprehensive immigration plan that balances our desire for the rule of law with an innate American compassion for human life - especially the lives and futures of children - is more complicated than simply building higher walls or increasing enforcement. What's really called for is some Solomonic wisdom. I don't profess to have such wisdom myself. But what is conspicuously missing from the debate - and where solutions likely lie - is a better understanding of the conditions of those who have fled their homes to find greater opportunity on this side of the Rio Grande. A case in point is Honduras. A Central American nation of just over 8 million people, Honduras is among the world's poorest and most dangerous countries. The World Bank ranks its GDP at 110, among the poorest in the Western Hemisphere. As if abject poverty were not enough, Honduras must also cope with the world's highest homicide rate - an average of 20 murders per day. These deaths are mostly teenaged boys caught up in the gang violence that has swept through a generation of young Hondurans. UNICEF tells us that boys between ages 15 and 19, an age when many of them drop out of school, face a homicide rate that is 14 times higher than for those between ages 10 and 14. Advertisement With little economic opportunity and futures that hold small promise, it's no surprise that many young male Hondurans struggle to find a healthy and productive path forward in their own country. The absence of work compels some to turn to petty crime or succumb to the temptation of the illicit drug trade and the often-lethal risks that go with it. But then there are those who embark on another risky choice, setting out through Guatemala and traveling through Mexico to the U.S. border, a trek of at least 1,500 miles - akin to making your way from Boston to Lincoln, Nebraska over mostly back roads. Their flight to North America from such destitution and danger at home - even as illegal aliens - should evoke at least some understanding in those of us who were lucky enough to be born within more stable and hopeful circumstances. That understanding should also extend to the women and children whom these men leave behind. I've had an opportunity to speak to many Central American women over the years, and I have come to appreciate the stress and uncertainty that hang over their days. Not only must they bear the burdens that go with being a single parent within an impoverished and dangerous environment, but they also live largely without communicating with those who have left. Imagine the fear and uncertainty of not knowing if and when any money will arrive or whether their husbands and sons will ever, in fact, return. These current circumstances, this choice between staying or migrating, hold no solutions, neither for U.S. policymakers nor the Honduran families themselves. And yet there are some initiatives that can help young Hondurans so that migration becomes a less-attractive option. They start with ensuring that the children are well protected from the violence in their surroundings and have access to education and other activities that can improve their capacity to find and keep jobs. Providing opportunity to these young people is the most effective means for keeping them out of gangs and on a productive path. Advertisement At ChildFund International, we have instituted an innovative program that has made a tangible difference in helping prevent violence against children. Called Miles de Manos (Thousands of Hands), the initiative not only works directly with at-risk children to improve their ability to cope with their environment, but it also engages their teachers, parents and other adult family members whose support is essential. We seek to improve parenting skills and practices so that parents can help reduce their children's high-risk behaviors. We work with teachers to help them create positive school environments, and we help students themselves develop social and problem-solving skills. Programs like Miles de Manos get results because they are creating foundational change at the community level. While improving economic conditions will likely require a long-term strategy and considerable resources, changing attitudes to better protect these young people and help them cope with their circumstances at home will go a long way toward stabilizing Honduras. WILL ANYTHING COME OF THIS CHAOS? Tomorrow is Super Tuesday. No matter what happens, Republicans are in chaos. Even with clarity. Here's why. Let's start at the beginning. First, we have the distractions. Last year we had seventeen candidates for president. Zero probability is, in such cases, an abstract. But as close to zero as possible were George Pataki and Lindsey Graham and Jim Gilmore. Hovering in the 1 percent or less probability range were Bobby Jindal and Rick Perry. These are not statements against these men, the probabilities based on all sorts of factors relating to viability, such as political base, donors, endorsements, competition from similar candidates, and, most of all, persona. In other words, these candidates were not consigned to oblivion because, say, they took on Donald Trump. Mike Huckabee and Rick Santorum were in that same 1 percent or less probability range. Rand Paul was a bit higher, but it became apparent that his father Ron Paul was determined to sabotage the son's campaign. Carly Fiorina's chances were even higher, but not high. Yet, due in part to the stupid Republican National Committee debate protocols, which supposedly required deference to network rules, the debate deck was stacked against Carly, and also against the Republican Party's need to avoid debates that impair the party's prospects in November. The simple reasons why Jeb Bush and Scott Walker had little chance for the nomination eluded the perennially-off pundits. Jeb was trying for a dynasty that no one wanted. And Scott Walker wasn't ready for prime time. Still, presumed kingmakers of enormous wealth naively backed Bush, and misguided major conservative donors imprudently bet their chips on the inadequate Walker. Bush raised the discussion to nostalgia about the George W. Bush Administration, not a subject currently helpful to the Republican Party's electoral prospects. And Walker was one of several candidates who sucked up money, endorsements, energy, and oxygen. Advertisement Christie and Kasich were higher-up on the scale, given Christie's bravado and Kasich's pitch, a bit different, but still distant. In contrast, Ben Carson's odds grew, with his initial exposure, and his excellent direct mail donor base. But as he continued in debates to answer questions that were not asked, it became (and is) clear that if winning the nomination is Carson's objective, he should suspend his campaign. Perhaps he has something else in mind. Large direct mail donor lists have a way of morphing into permanent organizations. That leaves us then with Ted Cruz, Marco Rubio, and the man the other candidates conveniently blame for their own shortcomings, Donald Trump. We are expected to believe that absent Donald Trump and the consequent angry rebellion, there would have been, for example, a groundswell for a third President Bush. Cruz has brains and money and organization and a loyal core support. But Sen. Cruz is trying to recover from a series of errors. First, no one on his campaign had the smarts and rapport to make him more likable. Second, Cruz repeatedly kissed up to Trump last year and, in the process, legitimized him; the anti-Establishment Cruz drank the Establishment Kool-Aid and believed Trump would collapse, and Outsider Cruz also believed that he would inherit the angry rebels. Third, Cruz allowed his campaign functionaries to engage in tactics that enabled Trump, Rubio, and now others to question his ethics, hurting his credibility, especially among the evangelicals who should prefer him. This is, of course, the fourth point, the misreading of the evangelical vote. Cruz felt, especially after Huckabee and Santorum left the race, and with Carson's momentum gone, that he would have a clear plurality of the evangelical vote. But evangelical voters (and many of their "leaders") have repudiated a generation of their concerns to instead vote, simply, for "the best CEO." Advertisement And Rubio, like Cruz, also seemed to lack someone to work with him, to slow down his delivery, enable him to speak thoughtfully, not reflexively, and try, one way or another, to age him rather quickly. The end result of letting Rubio be Rubio was his debate meltdown pre-New Hampshire that almost ended his candidacy. Rubio, an intelligent as well as articulate man, was on autopilot, his glibness reduced to robo-talk. To his credit, Rubio took responsibility and has improved, still a bit too scripted and slick. But will anyone on his team help him? Rubio has taken to insulting Trump and, in the process, has gained a lot of press. Of course Rubio has to win Florida March 15, but he also has to be ahead of Cruz in some states tomorrow. And now we have Donald Trump who might carry enough states tomorrow to make his nomination not a certainty, but highly probable. For too long the front-runner has behaved as if he is down and out. If it isn't broken, why fix it? But at some point he needs to get briefed and show some growth. The answer yesterday on the Ku Klux Klan and David Duke -- his inability to disavow in a mini-second, showed not that he is a bigot or insensitive or even a bad listener, or tired. It's quite simple -- his staff clearly does not prepare a list of obvious questions with quick automatic answers. Whatever the explanation (see below), this is a bad scene. Yet, with his recent Mussolini quote and his raucous treatment of hecklers, Trump's seemingly inexplicable and what appeared to be a double-down response on the KKK/Duke question raised the most troubling questions among his doubters. Consider the context -- for absolutely no reason, Trump recently has raised the specter of repressive defamation and libel laws that would undo a half century of jurisprudence following the 1964 N.Y. Times vs. Sullivan ruling that allowed free speech to flourish, as it required malice to sustain a defamation suit, the reckless disregard for the truth. There was no reason for Trump even to get into this issue; it may be raw meat for the crowds that don't like the media, but even if you could change the law, the beneficiary would be the very politicians that Trump says he is challenging. Advertisement This is yet another reason why Trump needs someone with the presence and judgment to guide him. Like many public figures, he probably resents what can be said about him, but that's what America is also about. We are not England, where the law is different, or other countries that jail dissenters. And the reality is that in our three branches of government, there is no conceivable way the First Amendment will be turned on its face. One can say there are problems with some police officers in America, and how they approach and arrest young black men. But that does not mean endorsing a war against cops, or the Black Lives Matter movement. Here, there is nuance. Yet, when it comes to the KKK, immediate condemnation is, and should be, an automatic, throwaway line. It's the only moral thing to do. This is not a matter of political correctness. Obviously, it's done in such a quick, dismissive manner that it's not a headline,as if "Trump denies beating wife" "Trump repudiates KKK support. It's done in an affirmation: "Of course, I hold David Duke and the KKK in contempt and would never want their support." We are so close to Super Tuesday that Trump's egregious statements may not have dramatic impact. We don't know. But he is engaging in self-destructive actions, some of which raise moral questions. There is a vast number of angry voters, but very few are sympathetic to the Ku Klux Klan and David Duke. When the Anti-Defamation League asked Trump to reject this support, the ADL was handing him softballs to hit out of the park. In taking on Trump, right now, Cruz is more damaged goods than Rubio. Cruz continues to speak to a national television audience as if he were speaking to a group of young hardcore conservative nerds. I suppose if Cruz wins Texas tomorrow that gives him a new lease. Certainly an unlikely loss in his home state could effectively doom his prospects. As for Chris Christie; much goes to Christie's stomach, but in recent days a lot has gone to his head. Remember that four years ago there was a gauntlet for president for Christie who said he was not ready to run. So, a few days ago, when Rubio reportedly left a voice mail seeking Christie's support and telling him he had a future in the party, Christie went ballistic at this presumption. Recall this is the same Christie who went overboard praising President Barack Obama for merely doing his job during recovery from Hurricane Sandy. And months earlier Christie gave the keynote address at the 2012 convention that nominated Mitt Romney. But instead of talking about Romney, Christie talked about himself. Advertisement Christie sees himself as a possible running mate with Donald Trump. But remember, Sarah Palin endorsed Trumpin Iowa, and she now may be in an secure undisclosed location. Christie already is acting like the vice-presidential nominee, taking the low road against Trump's opponents. Christie is too much like Trump to run with him. Christie fails to recognize that Trump is the consummate dealmaker. He has already said he does not want an outsider, and what better insider than a former Congressional leader and current governor from an important electoral state, Ohio's Kasich. Trump prides himself as the quintessential dealmaker. If he were the nominee, it is unlikely that he would select Marco Rubio as his running mate. But imagine Trump doing so, saying with a straight face: "I'm a deal-maker. And the best deal I can make, and it was a hard one for me and for Marco, was to bring him aboard because he represents the new generation. I've learned just how smart Marco is. I've gotten to know him." (And Rubio is from the electorally important Florida.) On foreign policy the Republicans now present a confused front. Rubio seems too intent on war. Cruz remains more cautious, more in line with both reality and the general electorate, even the Republican electorate. Trump comes across as the great patriot concerned with the self-interest of the U.S. But with the nomination unsettled, why would foreign policy guru Robert Kagan, an enthused interventionist, associated with neoconservatives, already endorse Hillary Clinton? This seems to suggest his assumption that Trump will be the nominee, and something more disturbing, that he has affinity for Obama lackey Hillary, of Benghazi fame, to prosecute foreign policy. No wonder many conservatives are uncomfortable with Kagan and other overbearing interventionists. Rubio would do well to learn a lesson here, that some of the interventionists on the Republican side are comfortable with Hillary, and that perhaps his foreign policy and national security approach should be more measured and qualified. Recent primary trends suggest that undecided voters have broken more in favor of Rubio than, say, Cruz or Trump. Now that Jeb is gone, with his substantial anti-Rubio advertising, Rubio can rise ("Right to Rise" as Jeb would say) a bit more. But in some states votes are cast early by mail, and those are Trump votes. Advertisement The clueless pundits on CNN and Fox don't understand polling. They will point out that a candidate has done better than his poll numbers, when the explanation is simple -- you add to each candidate's poll numbers a share of the undecided vote. Holding all factors constant, which now is the exception rather than the rule, undecided votes break in the same proportion as decided votes. But Rubio has been doing better in several states, and a late surge challenges that otherwise predictable distribution. The story is going about that the Koch brothers are raising funds toward Rubio and much more for an anti-Trump effort. This much we know. The Koch operation erred in its early enthusiasm for Scott Walker. And its vast conglomerate did not grasp the Trump phenomenon and failed to use its influence to steer the candidates toward the issues and rhetoric that win elections. So, we cannot say with certainty that any effort against Trump will be effectively prosecuted. Indeed, for months the attacks on Trump have not only been too little and too late, but so poorly conceived and pursued, that they have made Trump stronger. The same can be said with the National Review omnibus attack which, as I predicted at the time, exemplified -- for voters -- the Establishment. Don't be surprised if Trump makes the Kochs an issue, which helps him among angry Republican voters, because the Kochs have not effectively and pre-emptively established a positive image for themselves and their good work; and also, and for the reason too, making the Kochs a punching bag helps Trump in a general election. Here's a billionaire worth between $3 and $10 billion, attacking two brothers, each of whom is worth $40+ billion, and they have an undeserved sinister image that they inexplicably never countered. The major internal hurdle for Trump is that no one in his campaign will stand up to him. And standing up means at least briefing and preparing him. Let's be real. Trump is not for the KKK or David Duke. But he has no Q&A enforced on him. It's time to stop winging it. That's why Trump said Jerusalem should not be the capital of Israel, that he would "talk to Bibi." He did not know that Israel's position on this is not negotiable, just as he did not know about the Triad. This is not esoteric stuff, the province of nerdy Hugh Hewitt. Advertisement Trump's talking head cable groupies now blame his terrible David Duke/KKK response to Jake Tapper on a faulty earpiece. Actually, that sounds at least plausible, given that his offensive and troubling response contradicted his past repudiation of Duke, and his past anti-Duke statements. But why didn't Trump clarify the question then, or say he was having trouble hearing, or resolve the bad earpiece issue, or immediately deal with the controversy once it broke? In each instance, a proactive staff in control of the situation would have put out the fire, certainly not leave the story out there. But there is no one around Trump to take charge and stand up to the candidate. Where are the adults in a Trump campaign? Is this how President Trump would function? Even this morning one of Trump's robotic talking head surrogates, Scottie Nell Hughes, was saying "David" (meaning David Duke) did not endorse Trump, as if that is the issue, or the press is at fault. Would anyone even think of referring to Hitler as "Adolph" or Mussolini as "Benito"? Trump is not really neutral between U.S. ally Israel and the Palestinians who have thrown in their lot with Hamas. But Trump is so unprepared that he spontaneously talks about how he would be neutral as a dealmaker. A serious briefing would have informed Trump that the rap against George H.W. Bush and his Secretary of State Jim Baker, and Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, John Kerry is precisely their "even-handed" approach. "Even-handed" are code words for Screwing Israel. The U.S. can't be an honest broker because we have an ally. We back Israel and should say so. That would end the nonsense of constantly undercutting Israel and effectively delaying a peaceful settlement. (Memo to Donald Trump: American-born Michael Oren was Israel's Ambassador to the U.S. If you will not read Michael Oren's book, have him brief you.) All that brings us to November. Many Republicans are unsure what Trump would do if he were elected. But they know what Hillary would do. So, most of them would likely back Trump over Hillary. But maybe not, if the last week is any indication of what his general election campaign will be about. Advertisement Before breakfast on Saturday, November 8, 2014, at the Century Regional Detention Facility--or CRDF as the women's jail in the Los Angeles County system is most commonly known--an inmate named Unique Moore started coughing and complained that she couldn't breathe. Moore, a 37-year-old African American woman, had a history of diabetes, asthma, and severe mental illness. When Moore was arrested three weeks earlier for a violation of the terms of her probation, she reportedly informed jail officials at intake that she had a long history of asthma, and that if she had an episode in which she had difficulty breathing, it could be fatal without the proper first aid. She would need her inhaler. Once inside the jail, Moore was prescribed various medications for her mental condition, including the antipsychotic Seroquel that, in 2011, the FDA found posed dangers of sudden cardiac death. But it was the threat of an asthma attack that worried her. According to a new civil lawsuit filed by her parents, Elaine Bridges and Jimmie Lee Moore, Unique Moore's fears of an asthma attack came to pass around 6 a.m. on that Saturday last November. As she sat up and struggled to get her breath on the lower bunk of her cell, she called with difficulty to her cellmate, or "cellie," who was then still on the top bunk. Gasping, Moore asked the woman to shout to the guard that she needed an inhaler. Advertisement LA County jail policy doesn't allow inmates to keep inhalers permanently in their cells for fear that the hard plastic devices, designed to deliver medication to an asthma sufferer's lungs, might be repurposed as weapons. Moore's cellmate told her version of the morning's traumatic events to attorney Portasha Moore, now co-counsel in the civil lawsuit. She said that Unique Moore next complained of feeling hot and asked her cellmate to fan her as they waited for the inhaler to be fetched. (Attorney Portasha Moore is not related to Unique Moore.) Seeing her companion's distress, the cellmate immediately pressed an emergency call button located inside each cell to summon help, and began to shout for a deputy. When no help turned up, the cellmate's shouts were joined by nearby female inmates in unit 3400, a 30-cell section of the 2,300-woman jail located in suburban Lynwood. Reportedly, minutes went by and still no deputies arrived. Thee was more shouting, and more minutes without deputies. Eventually Moore collapsed to the floor of the cell, unconscious. The cellie said she screamed out again and again. Eventually a deputy turned up. But, by then, Moore couldn't be aroused. Kendra Cox, an inmate who was housed in the next jail module, unit 3300, told me in an interview, that the slow response on the part of jail deputies was not at all unusual. "A lot of times when we wanted toilet paper or sanitary napkins, they ignored us," said Cox. In the pod where Kendra bunked, the sounds from the next unit were muffled. Still, she said, on this particular morning, the inmates' cries for help were loud and alarming enough to wake Cox and those around her. Advertisement For what she estimated was close to 20 minutes, Kendra said, she stood near the door at her cell, looking out the window, and wondering where the guards were. "They probably thought it was insignificant," she said, referring what she characterized as the agonizingly slow response to Moore's emergency. Just women wanting something. "They were men," she said. According to Cox, the guards for Unique's pod weren't even present when the calling first began. Instead, she said, they were chatting with colleagues in the adjoining section - Cox's pod -before their shift began. All the while, according to Cox, the inmates in Moore's unit kept shouting and pounding on their thick metal doors. Eventually, the guards did respond. But, by the time they showed up, according to her cellmate and others, Unique was on the cell floor unconscious. Deputies would later claim in reports that she was still completely conscious, that it was only when they returned to her cell again after getting the inhaler from the jail's medical clinic, that she had gone into cardiac arrest. What is not in dispute is that paramedics were called for Unique Moore at around 6:30 a.m. The paramedics arrived and found Moore on the floor of her cell in full cardiac arrest at 6:38 a.m. She was given additional CPR (taking over from jail staff), plus four doses of Epinephrine and intubated, meaning a flexible plastic tube was inserted down her a windpipe to maintain an open airway, so she could receive oxygen. Then she was transported via ambulance from the jail to St. Francis Medical Center, where she arrived at 7:17 a.m, and was given further treatment. Unique Moore was declared dead at 7:41 a.m. Advertisement During the day on Saturday, word spread quickly via the highly active jailhouse grapevine about the fate of the woman nicknamed "Chocolate." The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department officials, however, declined for close to a year to acknowledge that a death had occurred at all. Then, when this reporter presented department officials with the coroner's report on Unique Moore, LASD spokespeople finally conceded that, yes, Moore had died. But Homicide Bureau Detective Lt. David Dolson disputed the claim that there was any neglect, mishandling, or any other kind of institutional failures in the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department response to Moore's lethal emergency. "The Homicide Bureau's investigation did not reveal any apparent delay in providing the inhaler,'" Dolson said in a written statement. A spokesperson for the sheriff's department would not comment further on the lawsuit's allegations while the litigation is pending. "They failed her," said the Moore family's co-attorney, John Sweeney, "She clearly had a bad asthmatic condition and she died on the floor after her cell-mate pushed the emergency button and [deputies] didn't come in a timely manner." TWO CORONER REPORTS The initial autopsy report written shortly after Moore's death by a deputy medical examiner concluded, "From the anatomic findings and pertinent history I ascribe the death to Asthma (Clinical History)." The report also cited "other conditions contributing but not related to the immediate cause of death: diabetes mellitus, hypertension, bipolar disease, schizophrenia, drug use (history)." Advertisement A few months later, however, after receiving further input from LASD Homicide Bureau detectives and reviewing the homicide bureau's report, deputy medical examiner Dr. Vladimir Levicky concluded his final March 2015 autopsy report with a different emphasis. "The cause of death of death in this case is asthma," he wrote. "The mode of death is accident due to the history of drug use." Never mind that there were no illegal drugs whatsoever in her system according to the toxicology report. No cocaine, barbiturates, opiates, MDMA, methamphetamines, codeine, morphine, marijuana, hydrocodone, nor anything related. In their interviews given to coroner's office, according to its case file on Moore, LASD officials painted a rosy picture of the high quality of medical care Moore received. As the coroner's report stated, Moore "was routinely seen by medical staff at the jail. Every time the decedent needed her inhaler, medical staff would check her blood sugar level. On Sunday, the decedent told her cell mate she needed her inhaler. The cellmate called a deputy, and the deputy arrived at the decedent's cell. The cellmate told the deputy that the decedent needed the inhaler." Shortly after her death, LASD homicide detective Jeff Cochran gave the coroner a version of events that differs markedly from eyewitness accounts of the day of Moore's death. According to Cochran's narrative, after one of the jail deputy learned about the asthma emergency, he then sped to the medical staff, retrieved the inhaler for Moore and returned to find that she had fallen to the floor, semi-conscious and breathing with difficulty. "As soon as the decedent was pulled out of her cell, the decedent went into cardiac arrest," Cochran told the coroner. This version was expanded upon in a November 2015 email to me written by Cochran's colleague, Lt. Dolson, roughly a year after Moore's death: "Inmate Moore died at the hospital after experiencing difficulty breathing in her cell. Prior to her death, Moore's cellmate activated the emergency call button in their cell. A deputy responded and was told by the cellmate that Moore needed her inhaler. Nursing staff was notified, and the deputy returned to Moore's cell. She was now unresponsive, but breathing. Medical staff responded and monitored Moore. Paramedics were summoned. Moore was transported to the hospital where she died." AN ALL TOO ORDINARY STORY Unique Moore had much in the common with the thousands of mentally ill who, despite growing efforts at diversion away from incarceration and into community diversion programs, still cycle in and out of LA County's jail system. When she was arrested for a probation violation in October 2014, she was in the heart of LA's Skid Row district seemingly looking for drugs when she was supposed to be completing a series of required drug rehabilitation classes. Advertisement Moore had a long history of drug addiction, which appeared to be an effort at self-medication for the mental problems that had dogged her since she was seven years old. As she got older, her initial symptoms bloomed into a serious mood disorder, worsened by the hallucinations caused by schizophrenia, according to what her father told his attorneys. As her mental health worsened, Moore's self medication moved from marijuana to harder drugs, including PCP, cocaine and meth. During her mid-teens, Moore served the first of her stints in the county's juvenile detention facilities, which were soon replaced by adult lock-up time, on drug charges. Around 95 percent of the approximately 4000 mentally ill inmates who reside in in LA County's jail system on any given day, like Unique Moore, have substance-abuse disorders and are often so unmoored from their families and communities that more than 80 percent are homeless or lack stable housing when released, as the new Los Angeles County Sheriff, Jim McDonnell, noted in testimony in February 2015 before the President's Task Force on 21st Century Policing. "Jails were not built as treatment centers or with long-term treatment in mind," McDonnell said. WAS ATTENTION PAID? When Unique Moore returned to CRDF for the final time in the fall of 2014, the Los Angeles Sheriff's Department was still reeling from the effects of one scandal after the other involving general departmental corruption, brutality in the LASD-run jails, and mistreatment of the jail system's mentally ill inmates, specifically. More than 20 department members had been federally indicted, many of them for charges involving brutality in the county's jail facilities. Two years before, in September 2012, the specially appointed Citizens Commission for Jail Violence had issued its scathing report describing a "troubling culture" among jail deputies with "a disturbing mindset that promotes a lack of respect for inmates, an aggressive view that force is best used early and often to control the inmate population." This was, wrote the commissioners, the result of "a failure of leadership" by the sheriff, Lee Baca, whereas his undersheriff, Paul Tanaka, not only failed "to identify and correct problems in the jails, he exacerbated them." Advertisement In early 2014, after being elected to four terms, Sheriff Lee Baca had abruptly resigned under a cloud, But, by the fall of the year when Unique Moore had her asthma attack, former undersheriff Paul Tanaka, who had been so harshly criticized in the jail commission report, was in a runoff election to become the new sheriff. The Department of Justice was threatening to slap the department with a federal consent decree over its treatment of the mentally ill inmates in its jails, an action the county Department of Mental Health (DMH) and then Sheriff John Scott protested as unnecessary because of the purported "incredible efforts" and "progress" in caring for those inmates. Earlier, the Southern California ACLU had filed a massive class action suit alleging horrific abuse in the jails, that would eventually result in a landmark settlement mandating a new system of outside monitors to oversee jail reform. A few years prior, the ACLU had issued a devastating report on Mental Health inside the jails. Yet, for all the focus on brutality and neglect inside the nation's largest jail system, most of the attention was directed toward the men's jails. CRDF hasn't gotten sustained legal, advocacy group or media attention until this past August when the reform group, Dignity and Power Now (DPN), working with student researchers from UCLA Law School's International Human Rights Clinic, issued a highly detailed report called Breaking the Silence, alleging a broad pattern of abuse and neglect that was especially damaging to women of color with mental illnesses. The report was centered on the accounts of seven women who had been incarcerated at CRDF, and who were interviewed in detail by the UCLA researchers about their experiences. The most harrowing was the story of "Nina," a forty-seven-year-old African-American woman diagnosed with bipolar disorder, schizophrenia and depression. After two weeks at CRDF, where she was reportedly denied access to appropriate medical professionals, and to the needed medication to "quiet the voices" in her head, Nina attempted suicide by jumping off of a second-story balcony. Unique Moore had a complex medical history, according to the coroner's report, jail medical records and the pending lawsuit. She had congestive heart failure, diabetes, asthma, anemia, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and neuropathy, all clearly disclosed to the jail's medical staff when she was arrested for violating her probation less than a month before she died. Advertisement Because of her condition, and the medication she was taking, she needed careful monitoring and prompt attention in case of breathing or cardiac emergencies. But as far as Kendra Cox and other former inmates could tell, few, if any, of the mentally ill inmates who mixed in with the general population got regular medical exams or care. These assertions received support from the harsh assessment by Department of Justice in its June 2014 report about the quality of care given mentally ill inmates, the UCLA/Dignity and Power Now report, and the views of some current and former LA County Department of Mental Health clinicians expressed in exclusive interviews. NOT SAFE "It's not safe for our clients there," said Kristina Ronnquist, a former Department of Mental Health social work intern who worked in the women's jail in 2013 and 2014. It was also not a good climate for employees who report abuse, she said. "I was very clearly told not to speak out, that it would harm me professionally, given the unsafe environment of going against the sheriff's department." Ronnquist testified to what she'd seen in front of the Jail Commission in 2012, and told the LA County Board of Supervisors about her experiences in CRDF in May 2014. "One of my teenage clients just recently made a very serious attempt at suicide," she said, "and one day later was taunted by a sheriff's deputy, who slammed her fingers in the door after she refused to move them, causing serious injury." According to Ronnquist, other mental health clinicians wanted to speak out about abuse they'd observed "but they're too scared to say anything," she said. Ronnquist's accounts were echoed by former CRDF inmates like Kendra Cox. "They treated us horribly like we were second-class citizens," Cox said of the custody staff, noting that no inmates dared to report the guards on the early-morning shift for their alleged delayed response to Unique Moore. "We didn't tell them what really happened," Cox said after her release from jail. Inmates were much too worried about retaliation, she said. Advertisement Other former inmates told similar stories. "Ain't nobody tell the truth in jail," said Tina Middlebrooks, 50, who was released in February 2015 after a three-year stint for drug dealing. "When you're in jail, it wasn't cool for you if the guards thought you were snitching. They tore up your cell and threw all your [personal] stuff out." Middlebrooks was staying in a section of the jail that was not at all near to Moore's, but said she learned about the tragedy on the same day that Unique Moore died. "I really tripped out on her death," she told me later. Middlebrooks had gotten to know Moore several years earlier when they were both in state prison on drug charges. She said found Moore's death particularly disturbing because she was grappling with her own mental illness -- schizophrenia -- while being housed in the general population and taking her prescribed Seroquel, just like Unique Moore. You made the difficult decision to divorce and worked hard to keep the process low conflict and out of court. Despite your best efforts, however, proceedings hit an insurmountable impasse and you now find yourself with a court date looming in the near future. Sometimes it is just not possible to reach a quick and easy divorce settlement through mediation or other out of court method. Don't be hard on yourself. Whether it's about your children's safety, your financial future, or your own well-being, there may be questions and concerns, or significant disagreements and conflicts that merit the intervention of the family courts. If you and your spouse are unable or unwilling to make decisions about contested (disputed) aspects of your divorce -- such as division of marital assets and debts, alimony, child support, or child custody -- going before a judge could be inevitable. Advertisement When a divorce is litigated in court, the process can involve multiple steps, including time to gather and share evidence, pre-trial hearings, settlement talks, and the trial itself. Is your divorce case headed to court, or are signs pointing that way? Here are some tips to prepare for the road ahead. Learn the Rules: No two divorces are alike, and even in a contested divorce, the number of steps you go through will vary depending on how complicated your particular situation is and how much difference there is between the results you want and the results your spouse wants. Every state has its own set of court procedures for hearing divorce cases and establishing trial dates. In New Jersey, for example, once initial papers are filed and other preliminary steps have determined that your divorce contains contested issues, the courts will analyze the potential complexity of the case and assign it to one of a number of separate tracks. If the main issue you can't agree on involves child custody, your case may be put on an expedited court track to make sure your children are settled into a workable custody arrangement as quickly as possible. Your state judiciary's website should be able to provide you with basic information about how to start the divorce court process. Have the Right Attorney By Your Side: With the stakes so high in divorce, there is simply no substitute for the trustworthy advice and clear legal guidance of a seasoned family law attorney. If court is in your future, you don't want to go it alone for some very basic reasons: Trial procedures are complicated and you will certainly face an un-level playing field if your spouse has an attorney and you do not. When searching for an attorney, look for someone who will explain your options, keep you up-to-date and informed about the maze of hearings and other court procedures, and who -- when it's show time -- will zealously and expertly advocate on your behalf. Ask your prospective attorney about their courtroom experience and how they will handle your case. You want to make sure that you will work well with the attorney and agree with their approach to your case. Advertisement Avoid the Wrong Attorney: One mistake many people make when choosing legal representation is to hire the most aggressive pit bull attorney they can find, thinking this will be a benefit in court. Be forewarned: attorneys who engage in needlessly adversarial tactics usually don't get too far with judges, whose job it is to ensure a fair and just settlement -- not a settlement with terms dictated by which spouse's lawyer yells the loudest. Unfortunately, what an overly aggressive attorney tends to be best at is dragging out your case, costing you time, money, and deep frustration. Dig Into Discovery: After establishing your divorce as a court-track case, the first major step you will take in the process is discovery, a formal legal process that requires spouses to share information that is relevant to their divorce issues. Basic discovery includes sharing case information statements, interrogatories (questions that are answered in written form), and depositions. If necessary, more complex discovery will be conducted. Experts may be appointed by the court or retained by either party for purposes such as appraising property, valuing a business or pension, or conducting psychological examinations. Discovery is one of the first steps you take in your divorce case, and it is also the most important, as this information is what you and your attorney will use to prepare your case. Work carefully with your attorney to provide full discovery, and thoroughly examine (with the help of your attorney) information produced by your spouse. If your spouse fails to produce certain documents, including bank and financial statements, your attorney can ask the courts to order your spouse to do so, or potentially face sanctions for noncompliance. Courtroom Cool: Divorce can take an emotional toll, and with a divorce trial date looming on your calendar, you may find the anger or sadness you feel about your divorce suddenly magnified with the addition of nervousness and worry over the prospect of going before a judge. At your divorce trial, you can expect the judge to be businesslike as he or she hears evidence in your case. Do your best to keep your emotions controlled in court and answer any questions the judge asks in a calm manner, staying focused on providing complete and accurate answers. On the emotional front, meet with a therapist, if needed, to help process your emotions and provide you with tips for staying calm. Advertisement Leave the Kids At Home: Unless their presence is specifically requested by the judge, divorce court is no place for your children. Some parents might think it helps them make their case by having their child there as a "surprise witness" to testify about his or her preference to live with the parent full time. Family judges, knowing how intimidating and scary it can be for kids to witness their parents on opposite sides in a courtroom, tend to disapprove -- strongly -- of actions like this. If any testimony is needed from your child, it can be given privately in the judge's chambers. Keep Your Options Open: No matter how far along you may be in your divorce, it is important for you to know that even when your divorce is being litigated you still have choices, including the ongoing option to settle out of court. Many times, a divorce can begin as a contested case, but later becomes an uncontested divorce because the parties found a way to reach agreements and settle their disputes. Before trial, the judge in your case may encourage you to reach a settlement on your own by suggesting, or it might be mandated by the courts, that you and your spouse attend mediation for parenting and/or financial issues. If resolution remains elusive, settlement conferences with the judge prior to the trial will provide more opportunities to work out terms you both are comfortable accepting. As a kid in the 1970s, I liked the Confederate flag because, to me, it meant Lynyrd Skynyrd. I loved Skynyrd. There was one negative thing that, as a kid, I associated with the Confederate flag - its use by the Ole Miss Rebels. I have always disliked Ole Miss. I never personally associated the Confederate flag with being racist. To me it represented an idyllic, simple way of living in the rural south, with a "southern rock" soundtrack, where everybody loved their mama and Jesus (even if they didn't obey either one very often). Advertisement I was born and raised and learned to love Jesus in Southern Baptist churches. I learned all about sin; about admitting you've sinned and asking for forgiveness. Repentance is a word on which Southern Baptists put great emphasis - it meant turning away from sin and turning toward God. It wasn't some abstract, feel-good, spiritualized idea with no real-life value; it required here-and-now real-life action. Starting with elementary school in about 1973, I attended fully integrated public schools for most of my years up through high school. I remember watching the groundbreaking television event Roots, then talking about it in our classes at school. It ingrained images in my young mind, in my young soul, that forever affected how I felt about slavery, as well as segregation, and racism. It also impressed upon me the sinful use of the Bible to justify it all as "God's natural order of things." Over time, with basic history lessons (which now seem to be a thing of the past themselves), it became clear to this white middle-class suburban dweller that my southern culture has been unable to face the truth of its brutal past. We've tried to white-wash (pun very much intended) the sins of our heritage and pretend they no longer matter, or worse, that it really wasn't "all that bad" for African-Americans. However, in 1995, 150 years after it formed in support of slavery (our Baptist kin to the north had adopted the more "liberal" and "unbiblical" abolitionist views), the Southern Baptist Convention formally apologized and asked forgiveness. Since then it has taken very deliberate steps toward building a more racially diverse denomination. The SBC, which for so long stressed repentance from sin, publicly confessed its sin and repented - turned from its past and toward the direction of God's reconciling work in this world. Advertisement Also in the late 1990s, the University of Mississippi banned the Confederate flag at its sporting events; not long after that it got rid of the white plantation-owner mascot, Colonel Reb. Just a few months ago, Mississippi's flagship university stopped flying the Mississippi state flag because it contains the emblem of the Confederacy. The University of Mississippi has acknowledged its deeply troubling racist past, and has turned to embrace a new future. Confession of sins and repentance, indeed. My full name is Robert Lee Montgomery. The surname on my maternal grandfather's side of my ancestry is Lee. Go back a few generations following my grandfather's Lee roots, and there's a cousin named "Light-Horse" Harry Lee. Yep - the Revolutionary War hero who later became governor of Virginia. And his son, of whom I am a distant cousin a few times removed, was Confederate Army General Robert E. Lee. General Lee himself is oft-quoted as encouraging the South to let go of the symbols of the lost war, to "forget it," and move forward together: "I think it wisest not to keep open the sores of war, but to follow the example of those nations who endeavored to obliterate the marks of civil strife, and to commit to oblivion the feelings it engendered." I, a distant relative of the great Confederate general, teach at Mississippi State University - which is now home to the Ulysses S. Grant Presidential Library. The official papers and historical artifacts of the victorious Union General and post-Civil War President are right here in the state of Mississippi ... which still flies the Confederate emblem every time we raise our state flag. Southern-born and southern-bred Steve Earle recently composed a song called "Mississippi, It's Time." Along with Steve Earle, I lament, "I wish I was in a land that never held a soul in bondage ever." Yet that is our past. Acknowledge it we must. Confess it we must. Repent, we must! Let go of the past, which then loosens the hold our past sins have on us, and turn to face a new future. Confession and repentance - it's the only way toward healing and redemption (any good Baptist knows that). Advertisement The Southern Baptist Convention. The University of Mississippi. Heck, even Skynyrd has quit using the Confederate flag as part of its logo and live performances. Q: My older dog has started to lose weight and I am worried that he might have cancer. Is there a blood test to detect cancer in dogs? A: Cancer is always a devastating diagnosis for a pet and most owners fear the possibility of their pet being diagnosed with any type of cancer. Cancer can take many forms and can manifest itself in many different ways based on the type of cancer present. The clinical signs of cancer can be very subtle and range from mild such as weight loss to severe such as sudden death from blood loss. Sometimes the diagnosis is difficult to obtain due to the subtleness of some forms of cancer. If there is a visible tumor then surgical removal and biopsy is the best way to obtain a diagnosis. If the tumor is internal, imaging such as x-ray and ultrasound are necessary to visualize the tumor and then surgery is required to either remove the tumor or get a sample of the tumor for biopsy. Blood work is always recommended as a baseline test to check organ function, however, unless the cancer is a blood-based cancer such as lymphoma or leukemia, blood work is not useful in diagnosis of the type of cancer present. If the cancer is affecting an individual organ sometimes you will see changes in the blood work specific to that organ, but the diagnosis of cancer is still not definitive. So, baseline blood work in general is not used to diagnose a specific type of cancer but can be helpful for looking at the underlying health of the animal. There are some experimental blood tests on the market that claim to detect certain markers in the blood that would indicate that cancer is present in the body. These tests have not been validated in large scale studies and can sometimes be very misleading. They also cannot specify the type of cancer present so are not helpful in guiding therapy. With weight loss, the recommendation is to get your pet to your veterinarian so that they can perform a full physical exam and document your pets weight. Sometimes muscle loss in an older animal can be mistaken as weight loss but is a normal age related change. It is also recommended to run baseline blood work to assess underlying health and then, based on the blood work and physical exam, further diagnostics can be helpful in trying to determine the source of the weight loss. Q: I bought a Guinea pig for my daughter and I am thinking of getting a second one to keep the first one company as I think that he is lonely. Is this a good idea? A: Guinea pigs can be fun animals and great for children to learn how to take care of a pet. Guinea pigss normal habitat originated in South America where they had large open areas to colonize. So, although Guinea pigs are a social creature by nature, they also need adequate space or they will fight.Most Guinea pig cages that you can buy at the pet stores are too small for two Guinea pigs and, typically, they will fight when placed in small quarters. Also, dont forget that a male and a female will mate so if you do not want baby Guinea pigs stick with one, or have two of the same gender. If Guinea pigs are raised together as babies they have a better chance of getting along, but introducing another Guinea pig into an already established Guinea pig cage is going to be difficult. If you dont have room for a very large cage in your house then I would not recommend getting another Guinea pig at this time. Unless, of course, you are prepared to have two separate cages to give each of them their own territory. Kimberlyn McKoy, De la Cruz Collection in Miami Design District By: Jaynelle Stewart At just 23-years-of age, Kimberlyn McKoy is already making important moves in the art world. After leaving George Washington University where she studied art history and fine art with a concentration in ceramics, she landed a job as a Curator at Picture That Art Consultants, a company that creates and purchases art collections for corporate entities including hospitals. As a supplementary gig, The White Plains, N.Y. native curates for XY Atelier, an art gallery on the Lower East Side that encourages emerging artists to break boundaries with their work. We caught up with McKoy as she prepares for her latest show at the gallery to find out what inspires her work and how she chooses the artists she works with. Advertisement BCB: Tell us a bit about the current exhibit that you curated. KM: The exhibition is called Tiptoeing on the Edge of a Rainbow, a title which came solely from the artist's (Matthew Samuels) mind and falls directly in line with the artwork he creates. It's a fun show, very light hearted and the work is crisp and satisfying to look at because of it's geometric patterns. The artist actually initially reached out to me for an opportunity at Picture That, but I saw much potential in his work in a different light and also his work ethic, so I redirected him to my side project at XY Atelier. He was persistent, always followed up asking about new projects and its hard to find an artist like that so I immediately jumped on the opportunity. At this point I'd never curated an exhibition before, but I was confident that I could pull it off based on my experience at Picture That, my education, and just my intuition. I was ready to put these skills to use. BCB: What is the inspiration behind the exhibit? KM: Ideas constantly float around in my brain about the artwork I see, and I see a lot. It's sort of like I mark it and save it for later. So my artist, Matt, was a mark and save for me that finally was brought to life. I love abstract work - I think its always relatable and that's really important for the viewer. I also am a fan of color, not just one color, but all of the colors together, which Matt's work often contains. It gives you a euphoric feeling and to be completely surrounded by objects like this is sure to have everyone in a good mood. Artist: Matthew Samuels (Westport, CT), Skipping Stones on the 4th of July, 36 X 36 in, Acrylic on canvas, 2015 Advertisement BCB: What can people who attend expect to see overall and describe the largest wall and what people will see on that part of the space? KM: Color. Lots of color and patterns throughout the gallery. The largest wall will display the most striking work - Matt's signature splatter paintings, which he creates by heating up acrylic paint, in order for it to have better viscosity and thus better control while flicking, dripping, and splashing the paint onto the canvas. The idea behind this wall was that it would sort of be a false mural. The whole wall would be covered with artwork but there are still canvases hung. There is no paint directly on the wall. The verticality of the canvases is interesting because it shows how versatile the work is. It can be hung either vertically or horizontally depending on how you like it, depending on the space it is in. BCB: How long have you been curating art? KM: I would say professionally 3 years, but my first internship when I was 17 at the local town hall with an arts and culture director was the first opportunity I had to curate. My manager told me that curating can be based off of whatever you're feeling at the moment, whatever patterns you see or know about the set of artwork and that I should trust that. That's why my intuition is so important to me, however immeasurable it may be. BCB: As a curator what do you look for to inspire how you choose or display the work for this exhibit and others? KM: If I like a work it's natural for me to want to know more about it especially how it was created. I look to the artist for context; in Matt's case I asked him more about his process which proved to be quite interesting. I'm really big on process and medium so I can drill down on that for hours. More questions will keep rising and the physicalities of the artwork give me clues on what to ask. Artist: Matthew Samuels (Westport, CT), Tiptoeing on the Edge of a Rainbow, 48 X 36 in, Acrylic on canvas, 2015 Advertisement BCB: Talk a bit about the artist, Matthew Samuels and his splatter paint artwork. Describe how it looks and what inspires his work. KM: Matt travels between his studio in Westport, CT and his apartment in NYC. He has exhibited with numerous galleries in New York and Connecticut and is also included in many notable collections such as the Housatonic Museum, Bridgeport, CT and Lenox Hill Hospital, NY, NY. He's really an experimental artist with no formal training, who strives to find himself through his artwork. He believes that not attending art school was actually for the better because it freed him from the pressure of creating artwork the way society thinks it should be created. He left his job at CBS to become a full-time artist and that's the kind of dedication that can be seen in his work. The rich color appears carefully considered in his most intricate work...and even in his more looser work, such as the splatter paintings, patterns can be seen. If you look at the artist's body of work as a whole, it's controlled which is in parallel with his personality. He has a set process that he likes to stick with but part of that process is not being afraid to step outside of the lines. I believe this is the reason his artwork can be seen in corporations, private residences, and also galleries. It's been a pleasure working with him and I know that the show will be a great success. BCB: When and where can people attend the show? KM: The show opens during Armory Arts Week - Saturday, March 5th and it runs through March 20th, 2016. You can see Tiptoeing on the Edge of a Rainbow at XY Atelier at 81 Hester Street, NY, NY. Visit BeyondClassicallyBeautiful.com to read more content that celebrates the diverse beauty of black women. Advertisement India is a young country. At present, 66% of India's population is under the national average age of 26 years. In the next decade and a half, more than 13 million Indians annually will enter the workforce for the first time. By 2030, India is expected to have 28% of the world's working population, a billion-person labour force, and the largest population in the world at approximately 1.4 billion citizens. But companies - be it public or private - still find it tough to employ people! The reason behind this is the existence of a significant "skill gap" between the supply of skilled labour and the demand for skilled candidates. Reports suggest that only 2% of India's existing workforce has undergone formal skill training, and millions more are devoid of any training at all. The Indian Government is attempting to address the problem by working to train and skill 500 million people by the year 2022. But can we all just leave it to the government to provide training and skill to India's workforce? The answer is a big NO! It is also the duty of individuals with sufficient resources to come forward and develop scalable businesses which can impart training and skill to India's labour force. This is exactly how the winners of the Hult Prize PAN India Initiative plan to provide meaningful employment opportunities to millions in India. The team Nautical-Part representing Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad (IIMA), India's foremost business school, aims to lift the underprivileged to a better life by giving skill-enhancing training. The team has built a model to connect the trainee and trainer via phone, Apps and a website. The trainee can learn from the trainer, and they rate each other once the training has been imparted. The team Nautical-Part is also working on developing an ecosystem to provide jobs to those who have completed the training successfully. In the second stage, the idea is to connect with institutes such as government-run industrial training institutes, polytechnics and use them during the night for training purposes. The team plans to make this business model self-sustainable and scalable so that millions can be trained at the cheapest cost. Advertisement What is the Hult Prize Pan India Initiative? Today "Hult Prize" is world's largest student competition focused on social entrepreneurship, one of the top idea-sourcing platforms across the globe, and works in association with President Clinton's Clinton Global Initiative. The winners of the annual event get one million dollars in seed funding to launch and scale their social enterprises. Hult Prize PAN India was launched to help students from India participate in this global competition and solve some of the world's most pressing social issues. "With NanoHealth from the Indian School of Business winning the prestigious 2014 Hult Prize, this year we have witnessed a huge change in the mindset of students of top institutes in India, and there is a huge spurt in the participation from India in this wave of social entrepreneurship" said Raj Bordia, the Director of Hult Prize India. Jury members present at Hult Prize PAN India 2016 felicitation ceremony The Hult Prize PAN India Initiative has witnessed more than 300 innovative social business ideas from India's top institutes in response to this year's challenge, "Double the income of people living in crowded urban spaces by better connecting goods, people, services and capital." More than 150 top colleges from India participated, and 30 of the best ideas pitched in front India's finest jury at a mega event on the 9th of January 2016, held at the IIMA campus. This was the largest social entrepreneurship competition to be ever held in India, and in the next few years the goal is to have students from the entire Indian subcontinent to participate in this competition. Advertisement (credit: JIM WATSON/AFP/Getty Images) Monday marks the final FEC fundraising deadline before Super Tuesday, where 11 states will vote in the Democratic primary. Bernie Sanders, who has raised an astounding $36 million in February alone, is looking to break $40 million by EOD. Sanders' impressive fundraising engine is powered, not by super PACs, but rather, millions of small donors whose average contributions are $27-a-piece. Fundraising is one measure of a candidate's success, but turning out voters is another one entirely. Tomorrow presents a major challenge for Senator Sanders. With over 1,000 pledged delegates at stake, Sanders will need to recapture the momentum that he carried in New Hampshire and fend off Hillary Clinton, who won the last two states. According to most polls, the odds are stacked against Sanders in 7 out of 11 of the Super Tuesday states: Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia. However, the Senator looks to secure a guaranteed victory in his home state of Vermont and hopes to take Massachusetts, Colorado and Minnesota, where he has relatively favorable odds among a more liberal electorate. Donald Trump says Mexican immigrants are a threat to America. Ted Cruz swears that a Democratic president will erase the Second Amendment. Marco Rubio warns that the fall election is a battle for the soul of America. Aren't they watching the commercials that sponsor the debates? The candidates have missed the most serious threat to America: Opioid Induced Constipation. Or, as the drug companies call it, "O-I-C." So many Americans take opioid painkillers that there's a national constipation crisis. According to the AstraZeneca ad, "It feels like everyone can go, except you." America is sick with an alphabet of maladies. We've got "IBS-D" --- Irritable Bowel Syndrome with Diarrhea. And high blood sugar: "A-1-C." Advertisement The cures put us at risk of ugly side effects; genital yeast infection, dehydration, dizziness, increased cholesterol, and bone fractures. We may end up with rash, swelling, and difficulty breathing or swallowing. But you can have these effects even if you're not taking Invokana, Victoza, Xifaxan, or Zyrtec. It's just possible that what makes us sick is our politicians. The three leading Republican candidates promise trillions of dollars in tax cuts and billions more in war spending while delivering a balanced budget. Donald Trump says Mexicans are rapists, reporters are liars and Muslims shouldn't be allowed in the country. Trump promises to build a wall, "a beautiful wall," on the southern border and make Mexico pay for it. He wants to deport 11 million illegal immigrants, which would require filling up thirty 747s a day for two years. Snacks would cost extra. Winning the Nevada caucus and thanking his supporters Trump declared, "I love the poorly educated." He should know. He loves himself. In a rare candid moment, Sen. Lindsay Graham said on CNN, "I think Donald Trump will be the gold standard for stupid Republican candidates," accidentally admitting that there's more than one. Advertisement The scary scenarios offered by Republican Ted Cruz are enough to give you "U-C," ulcerative colitis. He said that if a liberal is elected and appoints the next Supreme Court justice the threat to freedom of religion will be so great we'll see "crosses and stars of David sandblasted off of the tombstones of our fallen veterans." He wants to "carpet bomb" the Islamic State, reverting to a military tactic not used since World War II in the days of "dumb" bombs. We now have smart bombs and dumb politicians. Marco Rubio says he keeps a gun at home in case the Islamic States bursts through the front door. For the Democrats, Hillary Clinton claims she's not beholden to Wall Street, but won't release transcripts of speeches she delivered to them for hundreds of thousands of dollars. Asked by CBS anchor Scott Pelley whether she has always told the truth she answered, "I've always tried to, always, always." She may be the most sincerely insincere politician in America. Bernie Sanders, who's probably got a touch of constipation himself, says he can give you $5,000 worth of healthcare benefits for $500 in increased taxes. After listening to all this, we're suffering MTA, Mexican Threat to America; ESA, Erase the Second Amendment; ORF, Obamacare Repeal Failure; Chronic Benghazi Syndrome, or CBS; and finally, RDO, Republican Debate Overload. Voters may have flulike symptoms, infections, or sores and our politicians offer the cure. What we need is what most of them don't have; honesty, maturity, wisdom, humor, and most of all, intelligence. A candidate who keeps religion out of politics. We need the humor, intelligence and wisdom of Bill Clinton and Barack Obama. The foresight of Richard Nixon to go to China. The humility of Jimmy Carter and the likability of Ronald Reagan. We need a candidate with a spouse like Michelle. A candidate who doesn't lie, period. What we have are contestants on the Jerry Springer Show. Advertisement Presented with these candidates, it feels like "everyone can vote except you." Blood pressure and blood sugar are rising. We've got a pounding headache that lasts more than four hours a day and our stomachs are burning. Frequent urination may follow. This time, Harry Reid (D, Nevada) and his band of freeloaders are attempting to exploit the death of a true champion of conservative principles, Antonin Scalia, and replace him with one of their homosexual hippies from Seattle or Portland or some other despicable city with a livable minimum wage. Congress has, in turn, vowed not to even consider one of Barack Hussein Obama's nominations, much less hold a vote. And rightfully so. It is Obama's last year in office; he is officially a lame duck president, although anyone with any sense would argue that his lame duck-edness began three years ago. Because of this, he should defer to the will of the people in this next election and allow his Republican successor to nominate a replacement whose principles are more aligned with the conservative values that built this country into what it is today - the one and only true powerhouse of the world, despite the fact that the Democrats are practically trying to give the damn title away to China. To those who claim that B. Hussein Obama's reelection was a mandate to exercise his presidential duties and name a successor to the Supreme Court, I say not to allow yourself to be blinded by his shallow promises of free healthcare; you surely don't want to put your family's well being in the hands of government-salaried doctors and their death panels. The fact is this: Obama will be leaving office - eventually - so he does not have the right to fulfill his executive powers. I will leave you with an anecdote. For Christmas (a day that still exists to the dismay of the liberal media), my two children spent the year practically begging their mother and me for a puppy. They made their beds every morning, took out the trash on Wednesdays, and studied their favorite verses from the Bible (let's face it, they were some of my favorites, as well). On Christmas morning, they ran downstairs and crowded around one giant box beneath the tree. And when I gave them the go-ahead, they tore off the bow and removed the lid to reveal not a puppy, but something better: a note. It read, This year for Christmas, you will not be getting a puppy, because puppies grow up, and soon thereafter, they die. And the heartache you will feel from a dead dog is too great for me, as your loving father, to allow you to bear. My kids do not get a puppy for Christmas because it will die, eventually. And Obama does not get to nominate a successor to the Supreme Court because he will leave office. Eventually. When you hear the term "indie author," who comes to mind? Do you think of an author published by a small but traditional independent publishing house, or do you think of a self-published author? Or maybe either/or? As the world of publishing shifts beneath our feet, so does the language of publishing. The term "indie" was at one point reserved for independent small presses. It was a label that distinguished them from their bigger corporate counterparts. It's been years, however, since the term was co-opted by self-published authors, and more and more it's the norm to think of "indie" and "self-published" as going hand-in-hand. Meanwhile, I know a lot of publishing insiders who bristle at this, feeling that the term has been appropriated. They're possessive of the term, as if it means anything other than "independent." As if there's not room at the table for all of us. Advertisement Plus, the term itself was never really publishing's to begin with. It originated with music and film, two industries that do a much better job of celebrating and embracing their independent artists than the book industry does. To be indie speaks to a certain spirit, the spirit of independence. This belongs to any author who's either driving their own publishing process, or being invited by their publishing house to collaborate and/or partner in the creative process. I know independent small presses who will put up a fight over the label, but who do not exhibit the indie spirit in their dealings with authors. Wikipedia defines "indie" in many ways, but under the small press subhead, it says: a book or magazine publisher whose publications appeal to small, niche audiences, and are typically not distributed widely. Interestingly, those very indie presses who want to fend off appropriators of their term are in fact widely distributed, and would be quick to align themselves more closely to their corporate counterparts when it comes to discussions about their capacity to get books to marketplace. Advertisement As a culture, our indie spirit is wrapped up in our very fiber. America is the land of Independence, and "indie" is a feel-good label that artists of any modality wear with pride. In my forthcoming book, Green-Light Your Book, I celebrate the spirit of independence by championing indie authors of all stripes, but also the spirit of generosity. Because of the rise of self-publishing, book publishing has adopted an us versus them position that's not good for any author. It's traditional versus self. Paid-to-publish versus paying-to-publish. Offset print runs versus print-on-demand. Everywhere I look I see people trying to distinguish between "good" and "bad" books using arbitrary measures, and the favorite, of course, is author subsidization. And yet all authors who care about their books put their own money behind it, and all of us have read terrible traditionally published books alongside our best-loved books. And plenty of self-published authors are writing and publishing well-designed, gorgeously written, and award-winning books. To paraphrase Touchstone in Shakespeare's As You Like it," sweet are the uses of Donald Trump's stupidities, which, like the toad, ugly and venomous, wears yet a precious jewel in his head. Take Trump's recent February 26 cri de coeur for loosening libel laws to facilitate his contemplated suits against The New York Times and The Washington Post hoping for monumental monetary awards for their anticipated refusals to pay homage to his Royal Highness when he occupies the White House. Trump apes the little boys and girls on college campuses who protest against micro verbal aggressions against their fragile mental faculties easily traumatized by ideas that dwell outside their tiny intellectual universes. In contrast to President Harry Truman, Trump believes if you can't stand the heat, you do not get out of the kitchen. You take up arms against the heat. Trump thundered in Fort Worth, Texas: "If I become president--oh, do they have problems. They're going to have such problems...We're going to open up those libel laws. So that when The New York Times writes a hit piece, which is a total disgrace, or when The Washington Post...writes a hit piece, we can sue them and win money instead of having no chance of winning because they're totally protected...So we're going to open up those libel laws, folks, and we're going to have people sue you like you never got sued before." Advertisement Trump was characteristically factually, legally, and philosophically off base. But something constructive could be unearthed from his subtext. As regards the law, Trump falsely insinuated that the President of the United States commands authority over libel laws. He does not. There is no federal common law or statutory law of libel. Congress has neither an enumerated or implied power to create a federal libel law. Libel law is a creature of state law over which the President holds no jurisdiction. Further, the First Amendment limits libel suits by public officials that a President Trump would be powerless to change. The Supreme Court held in New York Times v. Sullivan (1964) that such suits are permissible only for intentional or reckless defamatory false statements of fact (as opposed to opinions which are absolutely protected). Six Justices voted in favor of the ruling, and three would have gone further and prohibited any libel suits by public officials whatsoever. The probability of a Supreme Court decision overruling the 52-year-old precedent is zero. As regards facts, Trump falsely insinuated that New York Times v. Sullivan creates an insurmountable barrier to successful libel suits by political officials or figures. In Goldwater v. Ginzburg, for example, former Republican presidential nominee and Senator Barry Goldwater successfully sued FACT Magazine for a false and defamatory article on the eve of the 1964 elections insinuating that he was mentally unstable. Advertisement As regards philosophy, our Republic pivots on the principle that the people censure the government, the government does not censure the people. Thomas Jefferson elaborated, "If I had to choose between government without newspapers, and newspapers without government, I wouldn't hesitate to choose the latter." Trump is right, however, that our libel laws should be loosened in one respect. They should facilitate suits against government officials who defame private citizens or groups. At present, the federal government enjoys sovereign immunity for defamation under the Federal Tort Claims Act. And government officials have an absolute immunity for malicious defamatory statements made within the "outer perimeter" of their official lines of duty under the Supreme Court's ruling in Barr v. Matteo (1959). Congress should revoke both immunities by statute. We do not want a President to employ a White House podium to defame Mexican immigrants as "killers" and "rapists" with impunity. Columnist Charles Krauthammer is a laureled megaphone for the multi-trillion dollar military-industrial-terrorism complex (MITC). His sound track is all percussion and no strings. Existential dangers to the United States requiring a military response are chronically appearing on the international stage. They breed faster than rabbits. Masterly inactivity is not a choice. Force works. And more force works more. We are God's chosen people destined to go abroad to cram our ideas of democracy and human rights down the throats of all who might object. If military force is not employed, our enemies will soon possess nuclear weapons to better our instruction during World War II over Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Advertisement Let the drums of war sound. Krauthammer's leitmotiv never changes. His latest megaphonic homage to the MITC appeared in The Washington Post (Feb. 26, 2016) under the banner "While Obama fiddles..." He is terrified that China is militarizing the South China Sea with the audacity to seek "Hegemony in East Asia." He points to military equipment positioned on disputed island specks 1,000 miles from the Chinese mainland. But his analysis of China's threat is like a review of the play Hamlet without considering the Prince of Denmark. More than 6,000 miles from the United States mainland, we possess a military base on Guam with 6,000 military personnel and growing; we have deployed more than 48,000 troops in Japan; we have stationed more than 27,000 troops in South Korea and we are planning a missile defense system there; we have stationed troops and weapons in the Philippines; we have marine training bases in Australia; and, we project the United States Pacific Fleet into the western Pacific, which includes six core battle groups and eight destroyer squadrons. We have militarized East Asia far more than China despite our remote proximity. We are the hegemon there far outside traditionally recognized spheres of influence for major powers. We are provoking China by encircling it, not the other way around as Krauthammer insinuates. China aims to replace the United States as the regional hegemon. Its motives are as self-interested as are the contrary motives of the United States. All nations subordinate justice to power. Advertisement How can the MITC and Krauthammer complain? China is simply following our example, which they applaud. The United States began to assert its sphere of influence in Latin America and the Caribbean with the Monroe Doctrine in 1823. It continued with the Mexican-American War, which General U.S. Grant condemned in his War Memoir and elaborated: "I was bitterly opposed to the measure, and to this day, regard the war, which resulted, as one of the most unjust ever waged by a stronger against a weaker nation." Then came the Spanish-American War; the Platt Amendment authorizing United States intervention in Cuba to protect property or otherwise; the perpetual lease of Guantanamo Bay; collaboration in the secession of Panama from Colombia and the building and ownership of the Panama Canal; chronic military interventions in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and Nicaragua; General John Pershing's Punitive Military Expedition in Mexico; the overthrow of Guatemala President Jacobo Arbenz; the attempted overthrow of Cuba's Fidel Castro followed by multiple assassination attempts against him in Operation Mongoose; collaboration in the overthrow of Chilean President Salvador Allende by the murderous General Augusto Pinochet; the 1989 invasion of Panama to overthrow former C.I.A. informant Manual Noriega; intervention in Grenada in opposition to a Marxist-Leninist government; and, the operation of the School of the Americas to keep Latin American leaders on a short United States leash. We asserted a sphere of influence in Asia with the annexation of Hawaii, followed by the conquest of Guam and the Philippines in the Spanish-American War. Krauthammer and the MITC alarmed at China doing today what the United States has been doing for nearly two centuries in asserting a sphere of influence beyond its borders because it would diminish their power, money, and celebrity. Advertisement I was lucky to learn early in my career to take risks and seize opportunities - no matter how outlandish or unachievable they seem at first. After all, nothing is truly impossible if you put your mind to it and some initiative behind it. To illustrate this, I want to share a short story of an experience I had in my early 20s at a small boutique PR shop in Sydney, Australia. Our clients ranged from Government initiatives to the emerging "new media" scene of CD-ROMS and companies launching their first presence on the Internet. I was a huge Johnny Cash fan at the time, and still am today. When I say a big fan, I don't mean just buying the t-shirt. I would fly to the US in my vacation time and follow the Man In Black playing at casinos and county fairs. Advertisement Photo credit: Dan Shargel (Flickr) One day while pitching a story on behalf of a client, a journalist interrupted to tell me he'd just heard a promoter was bringing Johnny Cash to tour Australia. It hadn't been made public yet but he knew I was a big fan and couldn't help but share. When I got off the phone, something clicked. Why can't our firm pitch to handle the tour publicity? I mean, we're in the business of PR and I'm a huge fan. What could be a better combination? I approached my boss about it and to my amazement he said go for it. It would be a good experience for me to lead a pitch however it worked out. With this in mind I crafted an enthusiastic "fax" (yes, it was a while ago!) to the tour promoter saying why our firm was right for the job. I followed it up with a phone call a few days later. The initial response was no. Apparently they had a bad experience with another publicist who was a huge fan of the touring artist and didn't want to take any chances. Advertisement I was devastated but remained optimistic. I asked the journalist who gave me the initial lead to put in a good word for me. It worked and I was able to arrange a meeting with the tour promoter. I have probably never been more nervous walking into a meeting than that one, but the karma Gods smiled kindly from above and our agency secured the tour publicity. Needless to say, the next few weeks leading up to the tour and the tour itself were a blast. I picked up Johnny and his wife June Carter Cash at Sydney airport when they arrived. I had to keep tabs on Johnny as he walked off to grab a Mars bar in the arrivals hall. He was a very gracious man and great to work with. He didn't want to do endless rounds of media, preferring to save his energy for the shows. So we worked smart and put the focus on securing high reach national broadcast media. We also got creative working with other members of Johnny's entourage. A deeply religious man, Johnny traveled with his own minister. We seeded that story to a newspaper columnist who ran a short piece. Soon after we secured a live interview with the Reverend on the nationally broadcast Today show. It was great exposure and built up more excitement around the tour. The hardest part was when it was all over and Johnny and the crew flew home. What would we do next? Well in years to come the same promoter gave our firm the publicity work for a tour by Willie Nelson & Waylon Jennings. Then a couple of years later Johnny Cash came back, this time with Willie, Waylon and Kris Kristofferson as The Highwaymen and of course our firm did the tour publicity again. Advertisement This early career highlight would never have happened if I didn't follow my gut, be brave, leverage my network and be persistent. It taught me a great life lesson that has brought many opportunities since - moves to Singapore and Silicon Valley that led to working for global brands such as Apple, PayPal, Visa and Yahoo! It's also enabled me to take chances and seize opportunities within my field - such as switching gears to specialize in internal communications after many years in PR. You've heard the sound byte more times than you can count - "Donald J. Trump is calling for a total and complete shutdown of Muslims entering the United States until our country's representatives can figure out what is going on." So, when I came across this article claiming that over seven percent of Muslims plan to vote for Trump, I was in disbelief. The man who has verbally attacked Mexicans, disabled people, women, Asians, African-Americans, and even former prisoners of war, is being hailed as "anti-establishment," as someone who can "fix the economy," and as we all know from his campaign slogan, someone who can "Make America Great Again." Somehow, for American-Muslim voters as well as many other Americans, these supposed virtues can atone for Trump's many shoddy comments. But this line of thought is inherently flawed, and it unfortunately has marred America's history from our country's founding. Because of this, I don't hear "Make America Great Again," I hear "Make America White, Christian, and Patriarchal" again. America is great; the United States is the wealthiest country to have ever existed. Trump and other Republican candidates call for an end to Muslim immigration - more specifically, prohibiting Syrian refugees. The wealthiest nation in the world cannot turn away those who are fleeing from incomprehensible circumstances, especially when the deep-rooted reason for this opposition is nativism and xenophobia. Advertisement Saba Ahmed is one of these 7 percent of Muslims openly supporting Trump. She believes that the Republican Party is home to rabid Islamophobia because there are so few Muslims in the Party. While I disagree with this assessment, I take greater issue with her other views. Specifically, she states, "I became Republican because I felt that my Islamic values - pro-life, pro-traditional family, pro-business, pro-trade - aligned best with the Republican party platform." However, this is not Islam to me; this is conservatism rooted in culture. When I became a Muslim, I never felt that I had to compromise my deeply held political convictions for this religion. In fact, I believe that Islam is inherently tolerant, pluralist, and liberal. I am not pro-life, because I believe that opposition to abortion and contraception is merely a guise to further the subjugation of women and that access to abortion and contraception empowers women. I support the right to same-sex marriage because in a democratic, secular nation, government cannot be used to impose a religiously-defined morality onto its populace. I am not pro-business nor pro-trade because this is inherently anti-worker and anti-union; free trade and unrestrained capitalism contribute immensely to income inequality. It means that in America, blue-collar workers cannot survive on their wages, despite working 40 hours or more a week. It means that workers in developing nations, to which many American jobs get outsourced, are being exploited for their labor, sometimes making less than $1 a day, and working in inhumane conditions. Further, I cannot support a party that, for the past several decades, has supported wars that have ravaged the Middle East in the name of democracy, that calls for the open-carry of guns and for unrestrained gun ownership, and that does not believe that access to healthcare is an inalienable right. The policy positions promoted by the Republican party and candidates like Trump are not in line with Muslim values. Islam supports equality of the sexes, of the races, of the classes; freedom of speech, of religion, of the press; democracy; tolerance; and peace. This is why I am a Democrat. And this is why I will never vote for Donald Trump. While I respect the rights of democracy - for each and every person to hold his or her own opinions, no matter how distasteful they may be - we must also remember that democracy is merely a tool, and that it is only as good as those whom we elect to office. Let us not elect the intolerant. This is a blog that will take you through the Rum lifestyles of a fine group of people that enjoy the fun and pleasure of fine rums. We will travel to distilleries, partys, and Rum Events to bring you the Rumstyles of all those we come in contact with. This year marks the National Park Service's centennial. But years before being formed in 1916, one of the seeds that eventually helped give birth to the concept was a 1903 three-day camping trip at Yosemite undertaken by then-president Theodore Roosevelt and naturalist John Muir. Roosevelt, as my new book described, was in the midst of a nine-week trip out west, his first ever to California. Part of his plan was to meet Muir and commune with him in nature, just the two of them, and two guides. Over the campfires each night, in the shadow of Sequoias, in the snow up at Glacier Point and near the mist of Bridalveil Fall, the two men shared ideas. Muir convinced Roosevelt that it wasn't enough to just love the natural environment, but also to try and protect and preserve it. President Theodore Roosevelt would eventually be known as the Father of Conservation for the numerous accomplishments during his administration to protect the environment. Advertisement But in writing my book I discovered a bit of a mystery. Before leaving Yosemite, Roosevelt paid a visit to renowned painter Thomas Hill's studio, located in the park. The president admired a painting of Bridalveil Falls, where he had camped the night before--and so Hill insisted he accept the painting as a gift. By all accounts I have researched--Roosevelt and staff took the painting back with them on the train to DC. One example-NPS citation: "During this visit, Roosevelt met Thomas Hill at his studio. Hill gave Roosevelt a painting of Bridalveil Fall that he had admired, and it returned with him to the White House." I located the beautiful image in the White House archive. It features a lone figure set against the sweeping scenery, and figured that was the end of the story. Until I found this letter from Roosevelt to Hill: July 6, 1903 marked personal: My dear Mr. Hill: I thank you very much for your kindness and appreciate you are having sent me the picture. I am glad you have devoted yourself to the assembly work. Surely nowhere is there greater chance for artists who love nature. With renewed thanks, sincerely yours Advertisement Theodore Roosevelt Note that TR says "having sent me the picture." This conflicts with them taking the picture back with them from their visit. So I dug deeper--and buried in the 5/19/03 edition of the long-gone San Francisco Call newspaper, was this--a single reporter's note: "Mr. Hill proposed to paint the President in the foreground, just where he camped, and then send the canvas to Washington." I went back and looked at the painting closer. Using a higher-resolution image I obtained from the online White House archive, I enlarged the portion that includes the small figure in the foreground. While not the most faithful image of such an iconic figure as Roosevelt, it certainly appeared to be him. Stunningly, the clue in the letter seemed to be answered. The painting did not leave that day. The painter, paying tribute to the president, made him part of the scenery. So today, buried someplace in the White House archive, Roosevelt is still soaking up the beauty of Yosemite. When Antonin Scalia died on February 13th, Republicans took little time before plotting to undermine president Obama's efforts to nominate a replacement. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell announced just one hour after the news of Scalia's passing broke that the nomination should be left up to "the American People" -- a code for "the next president," who McConnell obviously thinks will be a Republican. This situation is unprecedented. Not the issue of who should replace Scalia -- Barack Obama was democratically elected to a four-year term, and other presidents have appointed justices in the last year of their presidency -- but the reaction of the Republicans. Anybody who seriously tries to deny the malicious and partisan obstruction efforts against the president after this needs their head examined. And that's precisely the problem. Nobody who has been paying any attention is really surprised by this move -- McConnell has opposed Obama for being Obama for years now. The problem lies with Barack Obama's handling of the situation, and it is emblematic of his failures as a progressive president. Advertisement History and the constitution are very clear on this issue. The president has a duty to nominate Scalia's replacement, and the Senate has a responsibility to consider each nominee on his or her merits, not on the basis of electoral politics. Rejecting any and all nominees because of the party of the president is an egregious dereliction of constitutional duty and proof to the American people that the already-despised Congress is corrupt. Obama holds all the cards in this game the Republicans are trying to play. If they go through with their plan to block any and all nominees, they will only hurt themselves in a wildly unpredictable general election this fall. They know this, and given enough pressure from the executive branch and the American people, would almost certainly cave. I can't make this point strongly or clearly enough: the Republicans are bluffing. They've put themselves in a "heads-Obama-wins, tails-Republicans-lose" situation. They either confirm a nominee of Obama's, in which case Obama wins; or they refuse to, severely hurting themselves in November, in which case they lose. So what does our fearless president do with all the advantages and the American people behind him? He caves by attempting to nominate a Republican as Scalia's replacement. The Washington Post reported on February 24th that the White House was leaning towards Republican governor of Nevada Brian Sandoval to the Court. Advertisement That's right: Barack Obama preemptively compromised without even negotiating. Now let's be clear on the facts: Sandoval is moderate (for a Republican), and to his credit, refused to be a part of this game by withdrawing his name for consideration. But the fact that Obama saw the blatant disrespect from the opposition and responded by trying to meet them in the middle is exactly what has been wrong with his presidency from day one. The progressives who elected Obama twice deserve a champion, someone who will stand up for their values even in the face of an obstinate Republican Party. Someone who is not afraid to fight back and nominate a true liberal to the court, bringing his case to the American people who elected him and showing the Republicans for what they are: childish, entitled bullies unfit to govern. A progressive champion whose much-touted healthcare reform isn't based on an old Republican plan first put forth by Richard Nixon. A progressive champion who doesn't spearhead free-trade deals that would decimate American economic opportunities for the working-class. This presidential primary season, we have seen in almost every Democratic debate and town hall, the two leading candidates, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), fight over which one loves Obama more, which one will build upon his legacy better, as they wrestle for progressive votes. Advertisement The question nobody seems to be asking is: why? Why should Obama's extremely centrist record be a weapon to win progressive votes? And then you realize, in an America that sees someone like Barack Obama as a progressive, it's no wonder Hillary Clinton can claim that same mantle and not be laughed out of the room. The Virginia House of Delegates has passed a bill (HB 815) to allow executions by electric chair in case the state cannot procure the lethal chemicals it would otherwise use, and a battle over the proposal is shaping up in the state Senate. The measure passed February 10 by a 62-33 margin in the GOP-controlled chamber. During the floor debate, the bill's sponsor spent over a quarter of an hour recounting the gruesome details of the torture and murder of a Richmond family of four, including two young girls, by Ricky Javon Gray, who is scheduled to be executed on March 16. According to that sponsor, Del. Jackson Miller (R) of Manassas, the case represents "exactly why" Virginia has "this punishment on our books." The Virginia Department of Corrections says it may not have an adequate supply of pentobarbital, a sedative that is one of the chemicals required by the state's lethal injection protocol. Officials in Texas supplied Virginia with two doses of the drug, which have an April expiration date. The state says any delay would leave the state unable to conduct the execution by lethal chemicals; some legislators and other opponents of capital punishment have criticized what they say is a lack of transparency by state corrections officials. Advertisement If the Virginia Senate passes the House-cleared bill and Gov. Terry McAuliffe signs it - although a professed opponent of capital punishment, the governor allowed the state's most recent execution to proceed last October - Gray could face electrocution anytime from July on. The outcome of the state Senate vote remains in doubt. That chamber stalled a similar House-passed bill two years ago, and, unlike the House of Delegates, Republicans hold only a narrow majority in the upper chamber. If the bill is enacted, Virginia would be the only state where the state could order a prisoner to be electrocuted. Since 1995, Virginia law has allowed a Death Row prisoner a choice of execution method: lethal injection or electric chair (only seven of the 87 prisoners executed in the state given that choice opted for the chair); if a condemned prisoner fails to name a choice within 15 days of the execution date, the state uses its default method, a combination of three chemicals. Unavailability of lethal chemicals - drug makers, facing protests and potential boycotts, resisting supplying them for executions - has forced states with capital punishment to search for sources and led some states to postpone executions or authorize other methods. Tennessee has recently taken the same action as the Virginia lower house, authorizing the electric chair if lethal chemicals are not available, and last year Utah adopted firing squads as its back-up execution method, although neither state has thus far employed that alternative method since passing their new law. Advertisement Virginia has a long history of capital punishment, recording its first in 1608 and leading all states in the number of persons condemned to death during its history (it's third behind Texas and Oklahoma for executions within the last 40 years). When government health worker Brima Kamara arrived in Pate-Bana, a small town of some 2,000 souls in north-central Sierra Leone, it was eerily quiet, the sun-baked, red dirt streets empty. He went straight to the community health post, where he opened the doors to find nine corpses, all still on IV fluids. Spilled blood covered the floor. "They had locked up the hospital and people ran away," says Brima. "The remaining nurse ran away because her colleagues had died." The date was September 12, 2014. Ebola had just exploded on the community like a silent bomb and Brima had been asked to go to Pate-Bana because he had experience working with Lassa fever, a fatal, highly infectious hemorrhagic virus. Advertisement Brima spent the following months as a one-man Ebola response team. He banged down doors to collect suspected Ebola patients and even went deep into the bush at night to attend traditional healing rituals against the virus. "For a good six months, things were hard," Brima says. "It was very difficult in this area." Ebola Takes Hold As in countless communities across West Africa, Ebola found fertile ground in Pate-Bana. No one had heard of Ebola when nurses at the community health post began to fall ill in September, allowing the virus to quietly enter the homes and infect entire families of patient they came to treat. One of Ebola's first victims in Pate-Bana was Doris Kano, who worked as a volunteer nurse in the health post and was the wife of the town's chief, Pa Santigie Keirgbo. When she died, Pa Santigie and his family gathered in their home to wash her body and prepare it for burial--a practice heavy with meaning in Sierra Leone. The family was completely unaware that the rituals they were performing would become the catalyst of a devastating domino effect. "All of the people who were involved in [the burial] process, they died," says Pa Santigie, sitting on the front porch of the home where they all gathered around his wife's body 14 months ago. Advertisement Of the 31 members of his family who contracted Ebola, Pa Santigie is one of only three survivors, along with his two sons. "Everybody in this community found it very difficult to tackle this virus," he says, "Nobody knew what [was] Ebola. That is one reason why so many people died because nobody knew if it was Ebola or not Ebola. The idea was not there." He believes the virus peaked in September and October. "During that time, the virus destroyed this community," says Pa Santigie. Slowly, cases began to subside in November, the same month that International Medical Corps arrived to the area and began teaching local residents how to prevent spreading the disease. In December, whatever new Ebola cases flared up were taken immediately to International Medical Corps' newly-opened Ebola Treatment Center in Makeni, a city just a few miles away. The measure increased Ebola survivor rates in the area. "Up to February [2015] we had very serious cases here," says Brima. The Ebola Orphans The story of Pa Santigie's family was replicated again and again across the tin-roofed homes of Pate-Bana. In total, 158 people contracted Ebola in the town. Just 39 survived. Most of those who died were young and middle-aged women and men because they were the most able to care for the sick and carry bodies of those who died to be buried. Those who Ebola claimed were also mothers and fathers who left behind roughly 200 children. Now under the care of surviving relatives and neighbors, the Ebola orphans of Pate-Bana underscore the devastating ripple effects of Ebola on Sierra Leone. In one of the epidemic's cruelest ironies, the more families came together one year ago to care for their sick and bury their dead, the more Ebola tore them apart. For rural communities like Pate-Bana, the extended family is more than a family. It is the most reliable, significant social security system. With so many lives lost to Ebola, residents must now care for more children than they had ever anticipated. After his brother and sister died from Ebola, Pa Santigie took custody of their six children. He and two of his neighbors are collectively responsible for at least 20 children, most of whom are under 10 years old. "The situation is very rough, especially in the areas of food and medical support," he says. "I don't have enough food to take care of them. How I feel, other people are feeling the same thing." Advertisement Shattered Livelihoods When Ebola hit Pate-Bana, the town was put under strict quarantine in a desperate attempt to keep the virus from spreading further. This prevented farmers from venturing to their fields, leaving them with nothing to harvest once the quarantine was lifted. It was also impossible for goods to come into and leave Pate-Bana, strangling small businesses that kept families afloat. "It's not easy," says Alhasan Koroma, a Pate-Bana resident. "Before Ebola, I was doing small, small business. Then people were afraid [to come here], so now I have no business. It is hard to get money to live." An Ebola survivor, Alhasan lost seven members of his family to the virus, including his son and daughter who helped him with his small business. He is also one of the adults who is helping Pa Santigie take care of orphaned children. He tries to support them by selling fish that he occasionally catches nearby. "I didn't go to school," he says. "I am worried about the future." The Outbreak Ends In September 2015, Brima learned that a 14-year-old girl in a neighboring village was suffering from symptoms similar to that of Ebola. He tracked down two Ebola survivors, put them in personal protective equipment (PPE), and sent all three on a motorbike to International Medical Corps' Ebola Treatment Center (ETC) in Makeni, a city a few miles away. His suspicions proved to be true: she tested positive for Ebola and tragically passed away in the ETC. Sierra Leone was declared Ebola-free in November 2015, but a new case emerged in January, a reflection of the ongoing risk of new flare-ups of the virus. Advertisement Meanwhile, the needs remaining in Pate-Bana are many. The community's crops and livestock are dead and their businesses ruined. Residents struggle to restart their livelihoods. For families like Pa Santigie's, support to recover lost assets and restore an income stream will be critical after Ebola callously left the care of so many children in the hands of too few survivors. "The orphans need taking care of," Pa Santigie says. "The orphans we are left with." Donald Trump's flair for insults knows no bounds. Last year he said of Senator John McCain "he's not a war hero . . . I like people who weren't captured." McCain, a former Navy aviator, was shot down over Vietnam and tortured as a POW -- his wounds from those beatings will stay with him the rest of his life. Attacking a US hero would by itself torpedo most any bid for public office, even dogcatcher; yet, the most petulant figure in American political history is in command of the GOP presidential field. Even Trump is amused by what he gets away with: "I could stand in the middle of 5th Avenue and shoot somebody and not lose any voters, okay? It's like incredible." He attributes his Teflon coating to having "the most loyal people." Advertisement I believe that there is another explanation for the businessman-reality-TV-star's ability to say or do anything without repercussion: low-expectations. Trump's greatest political asset might be his bad reputation. I uncovered the "expectation phenomenon" last year when testing an analytical tool I developed to predict the impact a crisis will have on a particular brand. After running case studies through the Crisis Score model I discovered instances when a great reputation was a hindrance because of the high-expectations that it created; conversely, occasions when a bad reputation was actually a benefit, as it effectively lowered expectations. There is probably plenty of psychology around this concept, but in marketing and public relations, it flies-in-the-face of everything taught and believed to be true for decades. Conventional thinking holds that a "halo effect" envelops brands with a good reputation, allowing them to better absorb a crisis than those with an inferior one. Once I came to terms with the phenomenon, certain things started to make sense, including the stories of Toyota and General Motors (GM). Advertisement In 2009, at the outset of its "unintended acceleration" issue, Toyota enjoyed a tremendous reputation for quality, safety, and reliability. GM, by contrast, a brand plagued by quality issues, was emerging from bankruptcy in 2014 when its ignition switch issue because just the latest in a long string of crises,. In spite of the fact that GM had a lesser reputation, and that their issue resulted in far more fatalities and recalls, their sales and stock price both went up during their crisis, while Toyota experienced 20% drops in both metrics. Toyota's halo fell down around its neck and consumers choked them with it. The "expectation phenomenon" might also explain why low-budget airlines fair better in consumer satisfaction surveys; it isn't necessarily true that they offer better service, it might just be that passengers expect less of them, which makes their performance seem better than it really is. Before Trump, President Bill Clinton benefitted from the same phenomenon. I doubt that historians will credit Paula Jones and Gennifer Flowers for their critical roles in getting Clinton through the Monica Lewinsky scandal, but that is precisely what they inadvertently did. During his first election for president in 1991, Jones accused the Governor of sexual harassment while Flowers chronicled a decade-long affair with Clinton. Their stories damaged Clinton's brand enough to lower expectations the public had in his character, but not enough to keep him out of the White House. The irony in Clinton's story is that two women who sought to ruin his political life ended up saving it years later. Advertisement Imagine if George W. Bush or Barack Obama were caught having a sexual relationship with a young White House intern, in the Oval Office, and then lied about it to investigators and to the American people. It is hard to see how either president would survive such a scandal, given public expectations of their morality, compared to their predecessor from Arkansas. We are witnessing a similar phenomenon with Trump, only in his case it is a free pass to be crass, condescending and invective. Am I suggesting that a good reputation is a bad thing? No, but it might be a double-edged sword; instead of creating a "halo effect" it might actually create a spotlight effect -- putting brands in the bright lights of high-expectations. If Trump deserves credit for anything, it is his ability to play to growing frustrations over political correctness and illegal immigration. He might not of set out to insult as many people and groups as he has, but he has mistakenly interpreted the lack of backlash as approval, when it more attributed to low expectations. Republican voters are not the only ones to blame for Trump's meteoric rise. The media has certainly played a huge role in his political success, giving the candidate a hugely disproportionate amount of ink and airtime, right from the start. But there has also been too little public outrage when Trump insults an American hero or goes off on one of his misogynistic rants; perhaps democrats view it as an opportunity to improve their chances in November, but that is a dangerous game -- one they, and we, might all regret. Advertisement Trump may actually win the presidency, and if he does, it is our fault for not holding him to the same standard we hold others to. I don't know if he really believes his own insults, but I know that I believe in spirited discourse free of temper-tantrums and belittling tyraids. I fear for our country if we elect a playground bully to be Commander-in-Chief. Teaching respect to our children is hard enough without having leading political figures threatening to push people down "with a thimble," whatever that means, and criticizing others for their appearance: "look at that face, are you kidding me." Rio sem Homofobia (Rio without Homophobia), a widely praised anti-homophobia organization run by the state of Rio de Janeiro has found itself in the middle of a political firestorm as it struggles for survival. The government program is on the brink of financial collapse after being starved of funds by the former Secretary of State for Human Rights Ezequiel Teixeira, an evangelical pastor known for his fierce opposition to gay rights. Last month, it was forced to fire 75% of its staff and suspend almost all of its services. However, last week, Teixeira was fired by the governor of Rio for declaring his support for gay "cures" and comparing homosexuality to diseases such as aids and cancer in an interview with the Brazilian newspaper, O Globo. Following his dismissal, a nationwide social media campaign backed by several celebrities has spread to encourage Teixeira's successor to save the celebrated program from financial collapse. The controversy has shone a spotlight on deeply divided attitudes towards LGBT people in Brazil. The country won plaudits for legalizing gay marriage in 2013, and is home to the largest gay pride parade in the world. However, attacks on transgender people remain shockingly high and the most conservative congress in recent memory threatens to undo Brazil's progress towards LGBT equality. Advertisement As a gay man living in Rio, I have witnessed these conflicting attitudes towards homosexuality. The city, with its beautiful beaches and glittering nightlife, provides unique spaces for people to express their sexuality; and during Carnival, gays and lesbians kiss openly on the streets while hordes of revelers dress in drag. However, I am also regularly confronted by stories of homophobic and transphobic abuse, particularly in the city's favelas and poor suburbs far from the glamorous beaches of Ipanema and Copacabana. The most powerful force against LGBT rights is now the evangelical church, which has used its increasing political clout to block, and in some cases reverse, policies promoting equality. Although Brazil is still primarily a catholic country, the number of evangelicals has grown rapidly, from just 5% of the population in 1970 to 22% in 2014, and are set to become a majority by the middle of the century. Although there are many contenders, the most controversial embodiment of the burgeoning political influence of these churches is the head of the lower house of congress, Eduardo Cunha, a fundamentalist evangelical. After declaring that the country was "under attack by gays, abortionists and pot smokers", he has blocked all moves to ban discrimination against LGBT people and instead advocated criminalizing "heterophobia". Advertisement The threat to the security and wellbeing of LGBT people lies not just in the halls of congress, but also much closer to home. A recent report showed that in 2014, the number of homophobic and transphobic murders in the country was nearly one a day. In the state of Rio alone, 22 people were murdered in 2014 for being LGBT, of which half were gay men and half were transgender. The high levels of abuse against LGBT people highlights the importance of organizations such as Rio without Homophobia, which works to combat violence and discrimination, and has been used as a blueprint for anti-homophobia initiatives in other parts of Brazil. A recent project trained the police force, which has often been accused of perpetrating homophobic abuse, to attend to the needs of the LGBT population. A street demonstration to rescue Rio without Homophobia has been scheduled for later this week. The demands of the organizers include reopening the program, expanding it to new areas, and changing its name to Rio without LGBTphobia to make it more inclusive to transgender people. Snapchat is the new kid on the block. Many people still don't understand or even know that it exists. This is all great news because if you're able to push through the initial fear of the unknown, there could be a tremendous marketing weapon waiting for you on the other side. Is Snapchat your Excalibur? Here's why it could be: 1. It's insanely targeted Snapchat is used heavily (100 million users monthly) by millennials, Gen-Z and virtually no one else. Usually, you have to pay good money for an audience that targeted, but if you have about one minute to download Snapchat and get up-and-running, you can begin reaching that audience immediately. If your brand can benefit from reaching people ages 13-24, then it's simply a no-brainer to be there. 2. Its engagement is out of this world Snapchat gets the same number of video views as Facebook does. That's right, while Snapchat's user base may not be as big, they are very, very engaged. Highly engaged users trump more users in nearly all scenarios when it comes to social marketing. With Snapchat users consuming huge amounts of content daily and actively using the platform, your job as a marketer becomes much easier. People want to consume content on Snapchat; all you have to do is get it in front of them. Advertisement 3. Your competitors probably aren't using it (or are bad at it) As of 2014, only 1% of marketers used the platform. That number is undoubtedly higher today, but it's nowhere near the saturation levels of Facebook, Twitter or even Instagram. If you carve out a strong Snapchat presence, your competitors will be miles behind by the time they discover it. Furthermore, many of the brands that are using Snapchat don't quite understand how it works. One of the biggest red flags is using horizontal photos and videos: Snapchat is different from the norm in its love for vertical photos and videos. The concept is that you hold your phone vertically in your hand, so the content on the platform should reflect that. If your snaps require users to rotate their photos back-and-forth to see what's going on, they'll tire of it fast. Surprisingly enough, countless brands make this mistake. By avoiding it, you're already ahead of them. And, in a best-case scenario, you can end up far, far ahead of your competition. The Los Angeles County Museum of Art (Snapchat: LACMA) practically writes the book on Snapchat for brands. It's easy for an art museum to get labeled stuffy, boring and uptight; LACMA's Snapchat presence shows that they are anything but. By memeing their own artwork, they create a fun, playful brand that puts them far ahead of their competitors in the 13-24 demographic. Screenshot from Uralian LygerAnd 4. It makes you human Unlike every other social media platform, Snapchat is designed to only allow you to produce content that you're creating with the camera on your phone. That's right, there's no uploading stock photos of perfect smiles and airbrushed skin: Snapchat makes you capture moments. Advertisement Red Bull (Snapchat: RedBull), known for sponsoring extreme sporting events, produces Snapchat stories of these events, taking you through the beautiful locations, quirky competitors and attendees and exciting action of the day. You feel like you're getting a backstage pass to an event happening halfway across the world. GE (Snapchat: generalelectric), a surprising darling of social media, uses Snapchat to take you behind the scenes of what they're working on and how it helps the world. Their content is also peppered with call-to-actions to help them name their new products and other fun, interactive elements to engage people in a dialogue. Coca-Cola (Snapchat: CocaCola) has often taken a different approach, handing over their Snapchat account to well-known Gen-Z/millennial influencers who show people the world through their eyes -- while drinking a lot of Coke in the process. 5. It creates an incredible sense of urgency One of the hallmarks of Snapchat is that your content disappears. With a little creativity, you can create a promotion that will get a ton of quick entries. Taco Bell (Snapchat: tacobell) did exactly that with a coloring contest. They produced a story that included drawings, encouraging people to screenshot the images, color them in, and send them back to tacobell for a chance to be shared the following day. Photo from Taco Bell / SnapchatPhoto from Stacey Grant / Snapchat Advertisement If you saw this story, you knew you had to screenshot immediately because the content would disappear within 24 hours. There's a very real sense of urgency there that a brand can leverage to overcome user inertia. Taco Bell understood this, and the results were pretty great. Mobile is everything.... Must be so...as that was the theme line for MWC (Mobile World Congress) in Barcelona with over 100,000 attendees (largest crowd ever) viewing some 2,200 exhibitors covering 110,000 net square meters - which is huge - I know, I walked it all... And here I thought it was digital...how old-school...Luddite that I am... Which BTW should not be confused with "digital is everything" -- the leitmotif of CES (Consumer Electronic Show). All of which, dear reader, causes me to paraphrase a favorite mantra...mobile is everything...but not everything is mobile... Advertisement Frankly it's all digital (with the same everything caveat)...and digital allows for true kick-ass mobility...a point which was powerfully brought home to me at a dinner discussion I participated in where mobile operators and others waxed eloquent about digital data capture; digital ad serving; digital video; digital commerce...all of which is great for mobile but not dependent on it (and please don't knee-jerk me on geolocation), and frankly were less enthusiastic about true mobility - that is, actually walking around and doing all those things and more. A topic for another time...but do cogitate on the notion - Mobile and Mobility are not the same. Back to MWC. A tough show to navigate, as a manufacturer of glass protectors for your device is wedged in between a data-capture company, and a selfie-stick developer with the latest, greatest ad-serving technology is across the aisle. Talk about dizzy. And in my opinion, the best part of the show was 4YFN - Four Years From Now - the pavilion that housed start-ups...little companies with an idea and a dream, and the bet is that we will see some of them in the big halls in four years or less. Worth your time to peruse. But back to the main tent... Much like CES, which touted its leading-edge "innovation" and ultimately sold screens...a look at the Global Mobile Awards, for best-in-show, awarded by GSMA, the producer of Mobile World Congress, will give you a sense of what was really at the center of it all - and clearly there is, in fact, more to life than Apple... Advertisement Here are some highlights: Best Mobile Innovation for Health (within the Connected Life category) awarded to Etisalat for deploying special-purpose drones designed to transport polio vaccine to the most remote locations. The system recharges cold boxes and drone batteries at the GSM base stations while ensuring temperature control and flight route management through GSM and satellite networks... Noteworthy that this is real development as opposed to the pinnacle fiction of delivering a single box of cereal... Best Innovation for Education awarded to Worldreader Mobile, a mobile reading application optimized for inexpensive mobile phones to provide children, families and young adults with a library of digital books via phones they already own. And oh to the notion that much of the world does not own an iPhone or galaxy... Best Mobile Innovation for Emerging Markets went to M-KOPA, the world's leading pay-as-you-go energy provider to off-grid homes. They did not steal the spotlight (neither in the booths nor in the buzz), but glad to see there is momentum. More on this later. And, of course when you look at what was trending, battery life is as important as virtual reality...maybe more so....he says as he watches his battery drain...wondering if a drone will deliver a new one.... Advertisement And do pay attention to Sony and think about the Apple Watch as you read... Sony introduced three new smartphones and a range of accessories including: Xperia Ear - a wireless ear-piece that offers useful information such as schedule, weather and the latest news to keep a user up-to-date on the go; Xperia Eye - a wearable wide-angle lens camera that can be attached to clothing or worn around the neck; Xperia Projector - will allow interactive interface projection on any clear surface; Xperia Agent - a personalized assistant and it will respond to voice and gesture. Here's how it will work: Navigation will be conversational so you'll say "Take me to.." and Voice Agent will ask how you're travelling then immediately launch Google Maps directions without the need for you to say anything else. Sony Mobile is also currently developing its SDK as Voice Agent is an open platform though there's no timeline for this just yet.. And in Big News...LG surpassed Samsung...read on... Let's be clear. It's a fun show. Lots to see. Lots to absorb. But I was disappointed. Greatly. Disappointed not by the toys - there were some cool ones I will definitely get; not by the apps - I took more cards than I can count; not by the peripherals - I'm already using a new holder device for my car.... No, I was disappointed because the true gravitas of mobile and mobility was missing...the very notion that we can and some are already changing the world - really changing the world - not with marketing or advertising so-called Disruption but by using this amazing technology - digital and otherwise - to make an impactful difference in people's lives. And I emphasize digital and otherwise as we are jaded - not everyone in the world has the latest iPhone or Samsung Galaxy - in fact, there are places where a village shares one simple feature phone and others where there are none at all because there is not even basic service. Advertisement In fact, the State of Broadband, produced by the UN Broadband Commission reveals that 57 percent of the world's people remain offline and unable to take advantage of the enormous economic and social benefits the Internet can offer. Check out Mark Zuckerberg's view on this and make your own conclusion as to his and Facebook's motives. It's disappointing, this idea that 4G was about a good experience and 5G is about things. That's important; making sure devices are connected is good, but...we'll be sitting here in 2020 and instead of just 4 billion offline there will still be 3 billion.... I hope the folks here will focus on both priorities, bandwidth and but also making sure people finish this job and people have access. -- TechCrunch Here are some examples of the contribution that Mobile/Mobility is making, and I hope you will find and share more because there are many across Africa and Asia in particular. Vodafone Turkey's Between Us allows women suffering from domestic abuse to access quick help without jeopardizing their safety. Rethink Education in South Africa presents educational subject matters to kids via text message. Be My Eyes app connects blind people to people with sight to help identify what they are seeing (if the milk is spoiled, for example). AgroMarket Day helps Ugandan farmers buy and sell produce. SMS SOS in Mexico turns people's mobile phones into live-saving tools. What began as an untethered phone has become a powerful tool that adds tremendous value to our lives, but also has addicted us in many terrible ways...and like just about everything that technology allows, its power is in our hands for good and bad... Advertisement So folks - bottom line... Mobile is everything as is digital...but not everything is either one of them - People first...always. Listen to what drove the founders of M-KOPA, the Kenyan "pay as you go" solar company based on SIM card payment...and winner of one of the Mobile Awards mentioned above: Hughes and Moore had three criteria for the company they wanted to build: It had to involve mobile technology, an area in which they both had experience; it had to solve what they called "a massive pain point" for the very poor; and they had to believe it would one day become a billion-dollar business. There you have it...the impact of mobile is significant world change and profitability... What do you think? The world is in a frenzy over the Zika virus. Researchers established a link between its rise in Brazil and cases of congenital microcephaly in babies of infected pregnant women, with infants born with smaller than expected heads and improper brain development. As of November last year, Brazil's northeastern state of Pernambuco recorded 646 babies born with microcephaly. On February 1, the World Health Organization (WHO) declared the virus and its suspected link to birth defects an international public health emergency. Though we don't yet understand the exact relationship between Zika and microcephaly, there is clear cause for concern. But even more troubling is a virus brewing beneath the surface: rumors circulating online that this birth abnormality is actually caused by the Tdap vaccine given to pregnant women. It's not. When the anti-vaxxer movement meets a global health pandemic, the consequences could be dire. Zika does carry potential dangers for expectant mothers and their babies. But the virus is tame compared to its local counterparts -- dengue is nicknamed "break-bone fever," chikungunya "bending-up fever." But it is really tame compared to tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis, the bacterial infections against which Tdap protects. Advertisement Tetanus affects the brain and nervous system, causing painful muscle spasms that can be strong enough to make it impossible to open one's mouth. It kills one in five infected. Diphtheria causes difficulty breathing and can lead to heart and nerve damage. Pertussis, otherwise known as whooping cough, is a respiratory infection that can result in serious breathing problems. It is very contagious, and particularly dangerous for infants, with severe cases resulting in pneumonia, seizures, brain damage, or death. The danger to babies of contracting these infections, particularly pertussis, has led the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) to recommend that all pregnant women be vaccinated in their third trimester to help protect a newborn in the first months of life. Lest we think that it is only big public health agencies that send out these messages, the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the American College of Nurse-Midwives, which specialize in caring for pregnant women, echo this recommendation. Tdap provides early and much-needed protection for infants. The mother's body uses the vaccine to create protective antibodies that are then passed onto the baby before birth. The first months of a baby's life present the greatest risk, particularly for contracting whooping cough, both in terms of risk for infection and severe, life-threatening complications from the disease. Pertussis might start like a cold, with a mild cough or runny nose, but within one to two weeks, children can start struggling for breath after a coughing fit, making "whooping" sounds. Babies may gag and gasp. It might be difficult to breath, eat, drink, or sleep, with a cough getting severe enough to cause vomiting or a lack of oxygen. It's easy to understand why we would want to prevent these diseases if we could. In 2014, the CDC recorded 32,971 cases of pertussis in the United States. Between 2000 and 2014, there were 277 deaths from whooping cough; 87 percent were babies younger than 3 months old. Advertisement But compare this to numbers before vaccines became widely available. Back in the 1940s, about 200,000 children were infected with whooping cough each year in the United States, with 9,000 deaths resulting. Tetanus infected and killed several hundred per year. Diphtheria was the third leading cause of death in children in England and Wales in the 1930s, with nearly half of those infected dying from the disease. Vaccines have dramatically curtailed rates of pertussis, and nearly eradicated cases of tetanus and diphtheria in the U.S. Although work remains to be done on the international stage, huge progress has been made. As of 2014, 86 percent of children around the world were immunized against diphtheria, tetanus, and pertussis. The WHO estimates that immunization of these along with measles saves two to three million people every year. Despite this progress, almost 19 million infants worldwide are not given basic vaccines. The reasons for this are many: limited resources, poor health systems, or competing priorities. But the results are tragic. Each year, there are an estimated 16 million cases and 195,000 deaths from whooping cough around the globe. Progress achieved by vaccinating against infectious diseases is encouraging. We can't afford a backslide caused by dangerous distortions peddled by the anti-vaccination movement. Many critics thus far have rightly taken aim at Latin American countries that are encouraging women to avoid pregnancy while Zika rages, but denying or limiting their access to birth control or abortion. Imagine this tragedy compounded by thousands of cases of preventable diseases brought on by unfounded fears of vaccination. March 1 saw the publication of the book The Math Myth: And Other STEM Delusions, by Andrew Hacker. I have published my review of that book in Devlin's Angle, my regular column for the Mathematical Association of America. In this article, I'll set the scene by describing an earlier essay Hacker published, which in essence is a precis of the book, and explain how he manages to make a number of very good observations about current mathematics education but, because of some dramatic misunderstandings about mathematics, ends up drawing a conclusion totally opposite to the one his arguments actually establish. The saga starts in 2012, when the New York Times published an opinion piece by Mr. Hacker, with the attention grabbing headline Is Algebra Necessary? As the headline writer surely intended, the article generated a large number of online comments, tweets, and discussions in various blogs. Since Hacker clearly has a valuable connection to the nation's premier national newspaper, it is then a pity he pitched his article the way he did. For, although Hacker says that he did not write the headline himself, his article was indeed promoting the removal of algebra as a required course in K-12 education (as does his new book). Not only did that suggestion alienate accomplished scientists and engineers and a great many teachers--groups you'd want on your side if your goal is to change math education--it distracted attention from what was a very powerful argument for introducing the teaching of algebra into our schools, something I and many other mathematicians would enthusiastically support. Advertisement Yes, you read that right: introducing algebra. For a variety of reasons, the subject now taught in schools under the name of algebra is a travesty of the powerful way of thinking and problem solving developed in the Muslim world in the 8th and 9th Centuries, called "algebra" today after the Arabic term al-Jabr. If Hacker had instead used his NYT connection to argue for a major make-over of "school algebra" (as I think we should call the object of his criticisms), he would have garnered massive support from the pros, including me. As it is, his support came exclusively from those who, like Hacker himself, have no idea what algebra is or how significant it is in today's world. Taking two examples from his article, Hacker lamented that there was no good reason to require K-12 students to "master polynomial functions and parametric equations" or to "force them to grasp vectorial angles and discontinuous functions." His use of these examples as illustrations highlights how narrow and off base is his understanding of mathematics. He is simply wrong about his first example. There is good reason to study both polynomial functions and equations (parametric or otherwise), provided it is done properly. He would, however, be absolutely correct if you were to take his phrases to refer to mastering certain procedures for manipulating symbolic expressions (as he clearly does), which is what that valuable educational goal has largely morphed into in our classrooms and textbooks. As for his second example, I had to google the term "vectorial angle." It turns out to be an uncommon (and unfamiliar to me) name for measuring an angle as you go around a circle, so I doubt any child needs to be forced to "grasp" that, even a child brought up in an age when most clocks are digital. And "discontinuous functions" have nothing to do with algebra; they are topics in the subject known as Real Analysis, which typically is studied only by university level math majors. Advertisement There is always a danger in setting oneself up as an advocate for change in a discipline one does not know. Hacker is not a mathematician. He is a retired college professor of political science, who has taught some courses in mathematics to non-majors. As a result of his experiences, he has arrived at some conclusions about K-12 mathematics education that in many ways are close to my own, and which I have written about extensively in my Devlin's Angle and my personal blog profkeithdevlin.org. [In many ways, my position was articulated far more eloquently and passionately than I ever managed by math teacher Paul Lockhart in his essay A Mathematician's Lament, which went viral after I introduced it to the world in my MAA blog of March 2008.] As I say, Hacker and I have very similar views about the abysmal state of much of today's K-12 mathematics education, and the negative effect it has on generations of school students who, as a result, graduate with a poor understanding of, and often great antipathy towards, mathematics. But, given the importance of mathematics in today's world, we absolutely should not abandon the obligatory teaching of algebra, as he advocates; rather, we should teach it right. Unfortunately, since Hacker plainly does not understand what algebra is, or more generally what mathematical thinking is, he instead proposes we throw away the healthy but neglected baby along with the depressing pool of lukewarm, dirty bathwater it currently hides in. First codified by the Persian mathematician al-Khwarizmi in his book The Compendious Book on Calculation by Completion and Balancing (balancing = al-Jabr), written in Bhagdad around CE 820, algebra is a powerful method for solving numerical problems more efficiently than by arithmetic. It does so by introducing two new ways of handling numerical problems. First, algebra provides methods for handling entire classes of numbers, rather than specific numbers (which is what arithmetic does). (Those x's, y's, and z's come in to talk about classes of number, but that's just an implementation detail introduced in France several centuries later.) Advertisement Second, algebra provides a way to find numerical answers not by computing, which is often very difficult, but by reasoning logically to hone in on the answer, using whatever information is available. Thus, whereas in arithmetic you work forwards, starting with numbers and computing with them to arrive at an answer, in algebra you work backwards, starting by postulating an answer and reasoning logically to figure out what it is. True, this powerful application of human logical reasoning capacity frequently gets boiled down to mastering various symbolic procedures to "Solve for x," but again that's just a particular implementation. "Numerical forensics" would be a sexier, and more descriptive, term for the real thing. When al-Khwarizmi wrote his book (the world's first algebra textbook), apart from the familiar ten symbols for numerals, there was not a single symbol anywhere. No formulas or symbolic equations to be seen. Al-Khwarizmi was showing the traders and engineers of the 9th Century how to solve the numerical problems they faced in their daily lives. The focus was on how to think about problems, and had nothing to do with manipulating symbols. That is algebra. It is exactly the mental toolkit that Hacker says repeatedly is crucially important and should be taught in schools. Where Hacker goes wrong is confusing algebra with a specific implementation of algebra introduced by Francois Viete in 16th Century France. More accurately referred to as "symbolic algebra," it provides a set of formulaic procedures for carrying out algebraic reasoning in a largely mechanical fashion. It's very efficient, which is why it rapidly gained broad acceptance and widespread use. But the symbolic implementation is a procedural mental aid that only makes sense when learned and practiced in the context of real problems. If the symbolic method gets separated from the real world domains it was developed to handle, it ends up seeming like a meaningless and pointless game. That is what has happened with school algebra, as it has become codified in today's textbooks. [Some of us actually like that game, and it has proven time and time again to be valuable to society for some of us to play it. But that is a separate issue.] As it happens, the separation of symbolic algebra from applications is no longer of much consequence in mass K-12 education. For there is a second, much more recent implementation of al-Khwarizmi's method of algebra--one of immediate use to everyone in today's world: the electronic spreadsheet. A perfectly correct description of Microsoft Excel is that it is a computer implementation of algebra, just as Viete's symbolic algebra was an earlier, paper-and-pencil implementation. Advertisement [Check back on my summary of what algebra is. The columns in a spreadsheet allow you to reason with entire classes of numbers, and the spreadsheet's macros are the algebraic formulas. Because computers are highly efficient at performing many arithmetical calculations in essentially the same fraction of a second, there is no need to work backwards as with symbolic algebra; you can solve problems in a different manner, by working forwards on entire columns at once. There are also computer systems that can carry out algebraic symbol manipulations as well; they are called Computer Algebra Systems.] As I say, it is a pity that, because he is so far removed from mathematics as it is actually practiced in today's world, Hacker misses the large target that I am pretty certain he is trying to hit--a target that deserves to be hit. Namely, the degree to which the mathematics taught in many of the nation's schools has drifted away from the real thing used every day by large numbers of people, to the point where much of what is taught is not only of little use, but can do real harm. Kids who are put off math in school will find their life choices significantly narrowed. How far is Hacker off base? Two examples jumped out of the page at me in a recent interview he gave for the Chronicle of Higher Education. In arguing for teaching coding in schools, Hacker says, "Coding is not based on mathematics ... Most people who do coding, programming, software design, don't do any mathematics at all." Well, I've been coding since the 1960s, when Fortran and Algol were the leading high-level languages, and have even programmed in various assembly languages, and what Hacker says is totally false. Coding is entirely mathematical. It just has little in common with most school mathematics. (The worse for the school math curriculum, I would say, given that computing is more immediate in most people's lives and careers today than physics or engineering.) Second example: As part of his argument that learning mathematics is irrelevant in much of today's world, Hacker says, "Would you go to a mathematician to tell us what to do in Syria? It just defies comprehension." Well, it may defy Hacker's comprehension, but using mathematics to help prevent events in the Middle East result in another Twin Towers attack is exactly what the US Defense Department approached me and many other mathematicians (by way of large commercial defense contractors) to start doing following 9/11, work I continued to do over the ensuing decade for various DoD agencies. Much of that work has involved seeing how far algebra-like symbolic representation can take us in tracking events in different parts of the world, bringing algebra back full circle to the Middle East where it began 1200 years earlier. So much for Mr Hacker's Syria comment. Advertisement The pity is, Mr Hacker is right on target with his analysis of much that is wrong with what goes on in school math classes (through no fault of the teachers, I should add, since the majority have to teach what is mandated, and tested ad nauseam), and he is fortunate to have access to a large megaphone--the NYT--to make his analysis known. Unfortunately, his narrow, and in many cases out-of-date perception of what mathematics is, together with his many misunderstandings of the nature of subjects such as algebra and the importance of, say, parametric representations, mislead those who have similar misunderstandings, and alienates those of us in the math biz who would otherwise be lining up alongside him. For these reasons, I give his essays an A for observation, C for background knowledge, and an F for drawing the wrong conclusions. No, make that a D/F for his conclusions. His arguments did yield correct conclusions, he just did not realize they did, and claimed the opposite. I would give similar grades to Hacker's new book. In reading an advance copy to write my review, I annotated 20 pages (out of a total of 200) where he makes significant errors due to a lack of knowledge of, or a misunderstanding of, mathematics. That's an error rate of 10%; way too high for significant errors. You can read my review in the March 1 issue of Devlin's Angle. Advertisement MEMO TO SELF: Don't write essays or books on revolutionizing political science education. Gosh I wish my teflon pans worked as well as Trump's wisecracks. For thirty years Trump has been using the law to benefit himself and hurt others. And then there are four bankruptcies, which means that he goes to court to say I can't pay my bills, the court then says "OK pay X% on each dollar"with certain protected parties (usually the big debtors like banks) getting first dibs on the money, which means by the time it has run out some people get nothing. It also means that the contractor Trump hired doesn't have the money to pay the electricians, carpenters, and bricklayers he hired. In other words he has made great deals at the expense of the proverbial little guy (the "uneducated" whom Trump now claims to love) who actually has the knowledge to do the work so Trump can make more deals and pile up more billions.You've got to admit, that's a good deal. Trump mitigates his risk off the backs of others. Trump benefits in a different way from guest workers for his Palm Beach Mar-a-Lago Club. He hires guest workers, gets cheap labor, and doesn't have to pay benefits.Sure it limits job openings for qualified Floridians, but it benefits him. That guy does indeed know the art of the deal! Despite his anti-immigrant rhetoric, he welcomes guest workers IF he can exploit them. American workers might actually ask for fair pay with benefits--imagine that! And of course two of his three wives were immigrants themselves! Advertisement According to Socialspinwheel.com, in 1970 the Justice Department sued Trump because of his refusal to rent units to minorities. We haven't heard much about this. How does he do it? I mean how does he get away with keeping this lawsuit quiet? He has consistently bashed immigrants and even tried to humiliate Jorge Ramos the Hispanic TV anchor. He also insults women, panning Megyn Kelly of Fox news, disparaging Carly Fiorina's looks, and ridiculing Hillary Clinton for taking a bathroom break during one of their debates. This is the kind of behavior that would get any of us fired from our jobs. Why can he get away with it? Is he saying what others are thinking? To be fair, he is an equal opportunity insulter. He implied that Senator McCain was not a war hero but a loser because he was captured. Donald chose a better deal. He dodged the draft. The guy can get away with anything. But his best deal of all may have been his Trump University, charge students to learn not much and then make them pay exorbitant additional fees to learn not much more! He is not above selling fraudulent services to unsuspecting customers. Is that what he is doing to the electorate? Advertisement Who knows what other deals he has made with rules that assure he is the winner. They keep coming out I wonder how all his deal making will play on the international stage. Will America be great again if we default on our debt, declare bankruptcy? Will America be great again if we trash all our allies as opportunists trying to slip through our borders? Will America be great again if Trump insults every leader he meets? Will America be great again if each one of us scoffs at the rules the way he has? From Enron to Volkswagen, we've watched in horror as leaders who lack integrity have destroyed businesses time and again. But the real tragedy happens when regular leaders, who are otherwise great, sabotage themselves day after day with mistakes that they can't see but are obvious to everyone else. In most cases, it's slight and often unintentional gaps in integrity that hold leaders, their employees, and their companies back. Despite their potential, these leaders harm their employees and themselves. "Look for three things in a person: intelligence, energy, and integrity. If they don't have the last one, don't even bother." - Warren Buffet Advertisement Dr. Fred Kiel did the difficult job of quantifying the value of a leader's integrity for his book, Return On Character, and his findings are fascinating. Over a seven-year period, Kiel collected data on 84 CEOs and compared employee ratings of their behavior to company performance. Kiel found that high-integrity CEOs had a multi-year return of 9.4%, while low integrity CEOs had a yield of just 1.9%. What's more, employee engagement was 26% higher in organizations led by high-integrity CEOs. Kiel describes high-integrity CEOs this way: "They were often humble. They appeared to have very little concern for their career success or their compensation. The funny point about that is they all did better than the self-focused CEOs with regard to compensation and career success. It's sort of ironic." Kiel's data is clear: companies perform better under the guidance of high-integrity leadership. "Companies who try to compete under the leadership of a skilled but self-focused CEO are setting themselves up to lose," Kiel says. Advertisement Every leader has the responsibility to hone his or her integrity. Many times, there are integrity traps that have a tendency to catch well-meaning leaders off guard. By studying these traps, we can all sharpen the saw and keep our leadership integrity at its highest possible level. Fostering a cult of personality. It's easy for leaders to get caught up in their own worlds as there are many systems in place that make it all about them. These leaders identify so strongly with their leadership roles that instead of remembering that the only reason they're there is to serve others, they start thinking, 'It's my world, and we'll do things my way.' Being a good leader requires remembering that you're there for a reason, and the reason certainly isn't to have your way. High-integrity leaders not only welcome questioning and criticism, they insist on it. Dodging accountability. Politicians are notorious for refusing to be accountable for their mistakes, and business leaders do it too. Even if only a few people see a leader's misstep (instead of millions), dodging accountability can be incredibly damaging. A person who refuses to say "the buck stops here" really isn't a leader at all. Being a leader requires being confident enough in your own decisions and those of your team to own them when they fail. The very best leaders take the blame but share the credit. Lacking self-awareness. Many leaders think they have enough emotional intelligence (EQ). And many times, they are proficient in some EQ skills, but when it comes to understanding themselves, they are woefully blind. It's not that they're hypocrites; they just don't see what everyone else sees. They might play favorites, be tough to work with, or receive criticism badly. And they aren't alone, as TalentSmart research involving more than a million people shows that just 36% of us are accurate in our self-assessments. Forgetting that communication is a two-way street. Many leaders also think that they're great communicators, not realizing that they're only communicating in one direction. Some pride themselves on being approachable and easily accessible, yet they don't really hear the ideas that people share with them. Some leaders don't set goals or provide context for the things they ask people to do, and others never offer feedback, leaving people wondering if they're more likely to get promoted or fired. Not firing poor performers. Sometimes, whether it's because they feel sorry for an employee or simply because they want to avoid conflict, leaders dodge making the really tough decisions. While there's certainly nothing wrong with being compassionate, real leaders know when it's just not appropriate, and they understand that they owe it to the company and to the rest of the team to let someone go. Advertisement Succumbing to the tyranny of the urgent. The tyranny of the urgent is what happens when leaders spend their days putting out small fires. They take care of what's dancing around in front of their faces and lose focus of what's truly important--their people. Your integrity as a leader hinges upon your ability to avoid distractions that prevent you from putting your people first. Micromanaging. You see this mistake most often with people who have recently worked their way up through the ranks. They still haven't made the mental shift from doer to leader. Without something tangible to point to at the end of the day, they feel unproductive, not realizing that productivity means something different for a leader. As a result, they micromanage to the point of madness and fall off schedule. An important part of a leader's integrity rests in giving people the freedom to do their jobs. Bringing It All Together The bad news is that these mistakes are as common as they are damaging. The good news is that they're really easy to fix, once you're aware of them. Michelle Alexander did a great job of exposing how many of Bill Clinton's policies negatively impacted African Americans. Under Clinton, more African Americans were incarcerated than under George Bush Sr. and Ronald Reagan combined. Clinton's policies on crime and drugs have been a critical factor in developing what Alexander referred to as the New Jim Crow. Similarly to the old Jim Crow, those who have been convicted for non-violent drug offenses have been denied voting rights and have been subject to housing and job discrimination. Clinton, as Alexander explains, "eliminated Pell grants for prisoners seeking higher education to prepare for their release, supported laws denying federal financial aid to students with drug convictions, and signed legislation imposing a lifetime ban on welfare and food stamps for anyone convicted of a felony drug offense--an exceptionally harsh provision given the racially biased drug war that was raging in inner cities." Clinton's presidency did not only negatively impact people of African descent in the United States. When we look at the totality of Clinton's policies as it concerns African people, the pattern that emerges is that throughout Clinton's presidency he pursued policies that have harmed African people in a number of ways. Clinton encouraged Haiti to drop tariffs on imported American rice. The result of this was that Haiti's local rice industry was virtually wiped out. In 1998, Clinton ordered a strike against chemical weapons factory in the Sudan. The problem was that the factory was actually one that was used to make medicine. The result of the strike was a medicine shortage in one of the poorest countries in Africa. Advertisement Clinton has since expressed regret for not doing more to prevent the genocide in Rwanda, but when Clinton did decide to intervene in Somalia the result was not a very successful one. Clinton ordered American troops to go into Somalia to capture the Somali warlord Mohamed Farah Aidid. Aidid was never captured, but in the ensuing fighting eighteen American soldiers and thousands of Somalis (mostly civilians that were caught in the crossfire) were killed. The vast majority of the foreign policy concern for the 2016 elections has been centered on the Middle East, but I think that black voters also have to develop a global perspective on racial issues. When President Obama went to Kenya and Ethiopia to discuss issues such as corruption in Africa he was met with criticism from some Africans who felt that America needed to address it's own racial situation first. One Ethiopian stated: "They are interested in other people's problems but they don't care about black people in their own country. Most of our black brothers and sisters are suffering in the US." Both Kenyans and Ethiopians expressed their anger over the manner in which African Americans were treated. It's time that African Americans developed the same interest in well-being of our brothers and sisters in Africa and other parts of the world in assessing some of the failures of Bill Clinton's presidency and in assessing what the policies of Hilary Clinton and other candidates will be putting in place concerning the well-being of not only Africans living in America, but Africans in other parts of the world as well. -- Dwayne is the author of several books on the history and experiences of African people, both on the continent and in the diaspora. His books are available through Amazon. You can also follow Dwayne on Facebook. BY JOSIE PICKENS I began writing about love and relationships many years ago, not because I had any answers for myself or for anyone else, but because I had so many questions. I was facing my second divorce, and realizing that everything I thought I knew about love and loving was misguided and hurting me, as well as the people I wanted to share my life with. Through my research and writing, and through my study of the tenets of Buddhism and other traditional spiritual practices, I believe the greatest lie I was fed (both consciously and unconsciously) about love was that my focus in relationships should be on the people I'm trying to love instead of myself. I learned that as a Black woman, my love needed to be selfless and even sacrificial -- that marriage and children meant giving up a great deal of who I was (and who I wanted to be), and that having a family should be my ultimate goal. Black women learn at an early age -- through watching the women in our lives, and through a historical narrative that lives in our DNA -- that we are the only ones responsible for love and loving. We are the backbones of our families and communities. We are required to be leaders when it comes to doing the work of loving. But we're simultaneously taught that we must push everyone and everything in front of us, even though, clearly, that's not how leadership works. Loving in the ways I was taught left me exhausted and empty, and I refused to believe that being empty for a lifetime is how I was supposed to define love. But my emptiness saved me, and I realize now that being empty gave me an amazing opportunity to fill myself up with a new message, a new way of life, and a new way of loving. Advertisement The first thing I learned coming out of that moment of exhaustion and emptiness is the understanding taught foremost in Buddhist practice: no one can save us but ourselves, and that our most important relationship is the one we have with ourselves. Man, listen. "Caring for myself is not self-indulgence, it is self-preservation, and that is an act of political warfare." -- Audre Lorde When Lorde wrote those words, she was televising the revolution. Learning that my natural inclination to care about and love myself meant that I was headed the right way (instead of the wrong way, as I had been told far too often) saved my life and my sanity. Learning to focus on myself first has made me not only a happier mother, friend and lover, but also a more present, loving one. The concept of focusing on ourselves and saving ourselves is what author and licensed marriage and relationship therapist Wendyne Limber calls "freedom in relationship." Her book, Intimacy Without Responsibility, is actually a written workshop meant to guide its reader into the understanding that we are not responsible for others more that we are responsible for ourselves. And that by learning to actually care for ourselves first, we are improving the way we care for others. Advertisement Understanding it is everyone's responsibility to save themselves just as it is my responsibility to save myself has finally helped me put my cape away and lay down my cross. It's also taught me that trying to save people from themselves is a futile act, as each pain and joy we feel in this life is a part of our evolutionary process. My emptiness and exhaustion was a result of worrying about everyone else's business more than my own, and I was confusing codependency with love. I want to remind you that even as a mother, wife, lover or friend, you matter most. Your needs must be considered first, as we cannot save someone who is drowning if we, ourselves, are not expert swimmers. Your goal in love is to focus on yourself foremost, so that you can be whole when you begin the business of loving everyone else. Most importantly, the lies you've been told about love being the ultimate sacrifice, and that caring about your heart, your spirit, and your joy is selfish, are terrible and dangerous. We are the ones we've been waiting for, my loves. Poet extraordinaire and magical Black girl June Jordan told us that way back in '78. There's something ingrained in humans that cause us to take dangerous risks and try things that might change the world. Over the course of civilization, thousands upon thousands of inventions succeeded beyond their creator's wildest dream. But some were epic fails. Here's a look at the top twenty inventors who were killed by their own inventions. 20. Thomas Andrews was the chief naval architect for the R.M.S. Titanic and it was his honor to accompany the ship on its maiden voyage. Andrews was aware of the Titanic's vulnerability in ice-laden waters and originally called for the Titanic to be double-hulled and equipped with forty-six lifeboats, instead of the twenty it actually carried. He was overruled due to cost constraints. When the Titanic struck the iceberg on April 15, 1912, Andrews heroically helped many people into the lifeboats. He was last seen in the first-class smoking lounge, weeping. His body was never recovered. 19. William Bullock invented the first modern printing press. While installing a machine for the Philadelphia Public Ledger, Bullock tried to kick a belt onto a pulley and got his leg crushed in the moving mechanism. He quickly developed gangrene and his leg needed amputating. During his surgery on April 12, 1867, Bullock died of complications. Advertisement 18. Francis Edgar Stanley invented the photographic dry plate which he sold to George Eastman of Eastman-Kodak fame. With the profits, he founded the Stanley Motor Carriage Company and developed a line of steam-powered automobiles called Stanley Steemers. On July 13, 1918, Francis Stanley was testing one of his Steemers and swerved to miss some farm animals. He plowed into a wood pile and died. 17. Jean-Francoise Pilatre de Rozier was a French chemistry and physics teacher as well as being the true father of aviation. He made the first hot air balloon flight in 1783. He was also the first to experiment with hydrogen as a propellant, testing it by taking a mouthful and blowing it across an open flame. After losing his hair and eyebrows, he dismissed hydrogen as being too volatile -- something the makers of the Hindenburg would later confirm. On July 15, 1785, de Rozier attempted to cross the English Channel in his balloon. It crashed, killing de Rozier and his passenger. 16. Louis Slotin was an American nuclear physicist who worked on the Manhatten Project. After the war, Slotin continued to experiment with plutonium and accidently set off a fission reaction which released a hard burst of radiation. Realizing what he'd done, Slotin heroically covered the material with his body while the others made a run for the hills. He died on May 30, 1946, two weeks after the exposure. 15. Karel Soucek was a Czechoslovakian daredevil and inventor. He built a specially-designed, shock-proof barrel and repeatedly flowed over Niagara Falls. To top this feat, Soucek invented a new capsule which was dropped from the roof of the Houston Astrodome on January 20, 1985. It missed its target, which was a small water container, and Soucek was killed on impact. World-renown stuntman, Evel Knievel, tried to talk Soucek out of it, saying "It was the most dangerous thing I've ever seen." Advertisement 14. Sylvester H. Roper invented the world's first motorcycle. He called it a velocipede and it was actually a converted bicycle powered by a steam engine. On June 01, 1896, Roper was testing the machine on a bicycle racing track and was lapping the pedal-powered two-wheelers at over forty mph. Suddenly, he wiped out and died. The autopsy showed the cause of death to be a heart attack, but it's not known if the attack caused the crash or if the crash caused the attack. He was seventy-two. 13. Horace Lawson Hunley invented the submarine. His first prototype trapped seven sailors underwater and killed them all. Hunley went back to the drawing board and came up with a new and improved sub, aptly named the H.L. Hunley, which he skippered himself. On October 15, 1863, Hunley was testing the Hunley off the coast of Charleston, South Carolina, when it failed to surface and again killed the crew -- including Hunley himself. 12. Aurel Vlaicu was a Romanian inventor and test pilot of his own line of aircraft, called the Vlaicu WR I, II, and III. He achieved many notable firsts such as the highest, longest, and fastest flights. On Friday, September 13, 1913, Vlaicu's luck ran out when he attempted the highest altitude flight ever -- crossing the peaks of the Carpathian Mountains. The cause of the crash was never determined. 11. Valerian Abakovsky invented the Aerocar, also known as the Aerowagon, which was a steam-powered, propeller-driven rail car intended to whisk railway executives quickly across the vast lands of Siberia. On July 24, 1921, the twenty-five-year-old Abakovsky was whirling a group of twenty-two big-shots from Tula to Moscow when he approached a curve at over eighty mph. His Aerocar went airborne and killed six, including the inventor. 10. Marie Curie was a Polish chemist/physicist who pioneered research into radioactivity and won the Nobel Prize -- twice. Besides proposing the theory of radiation and discovering two elements, she is credited with inventing radiography or X-rays. Curie died on July 14, 1934, in a French sanatorium from aplastic anemia due to long-term exposure to radiation, probably from her habit of carrying test-tubes of plutonium in her pockets. Advertisement 9. James Fuller "Jim" Fixx didn't exactly invent running but he popularized it through his mega-bestselling book Complete Book Of Running. Fixx took up the sport after a lifetime of stress and bad habits. He became a world celebrity on fitness and healthy living. On the morning of July 20, 1984, he was out for his daily running fix and fell dead in his tracks on Route 15 in Hardwick, Vermont. His official cause of death was a fulminant heart attack. The autopsy showed his heart arteries were 70% blocked in the right anterior descending, 80% blocked in the left anterior descending, and 95% blocked in the circumflex. Runner Jim Fixx was fifty-two. 8. Max Valier was an Austrian rocket scientist who invented solid and liquid fueled missiles. Given his success with flight, Valier thought it'd be cool to make a rocket-propelled car. It worked, too, and he got it up to 250 mph. Trying to get even better, Valier experimented with alcohol as a combustible. That got away on him and blew up on his workbench, killing Valier and burning his workshop down. 7. Alexander Bogdanov was a Russian physician, writer, politician, and inventor of sorts. He was a major player in the 1917 Bolshevik Revolution and ended up in jail. He talked his way out of death row and back into medicine where he became obsessed with blood. Bogdanov founded the Institute For Haematology and was convinced that blood transfusion was the ticket to the fountain of youth. To back up his beliefs, he used himself as a crash-test dummy and transfused blood from a patient suffering malaria and tuberculosis into his own system. He died two days later on April 07, 1928, but the patient slowly got better. It seems that the blood types were incompatible -- something little known in the day. 6. Otto Lilienthal was known as The Glider King. A German pioneer in aviation, Lilienthal made over 2,000 glider flights and is credited with perfecting the gull-wing design and set the long-held record of soaring to 1820 feet. On August 10, 1896, Lilienthal experimented with "shifting weight" in a glider at fifty feet. It lost lift, stalled, and he augered into the ground, breaking his neck. 5. Li Si died in 208 BC at age seventy-two of The Five Pains. That was a form of torture or "punishments" involving tattooing the face, cutting off the nose, cutting off the feet, castration, and finally death by exposure. Li Si was Prime Minister during China's Qin Dynasty and fell out of favor with the Emperor. It should be noted Li Si invented The Five Pains. Advertisement 4. Henry Smolinski held a degree in aeronautical engineering from the Northrup Institute Of Technology. Old Hank got the idea that a flying car was necessary so he bastardized the boxed-wing rear section of a Cessna 337 Skymaster and welded it onto the top of a '71 Ford Pinto. He actually got the thing to fly. On September 11, 1973, Hank took his buddy, Harold Blake, up for a spin in the Pinto. At around three hundred feet, one of the wings snapped and the pony-car bucked them off to a fiery death. 3. Abu Nasr Ismail ibn Hammad a-Jawhari died around 1008 AD at Nishapur which is in today's Iraq. He was a Muslim cleric, scholar, and a bit of an inventor. He was fascinated with flight so he built a pair of feather-covered, wooden wings and strapped them to his back and arms. To impress the Iman, Mr. a-Jawhari jumped off the roof of the mosque hoping they'd work. They didn't, but to commemorate the first known attempt at human flight, they built a mosaic mural on the wall of the mosque. It's actually quite pretty. 2. Wan-Hu may or may not have been real. Some say he was apocryphal, or doubtful, but one thing's for sure -- he's a legend. Wan-Hu was reported to be a 16th-century Chinese official who tried to shoot himself to the moon by attaching forty-seven rockets to a chair and lighting them all at once. They say there was this huge bang and, when the smoke cleared, Wan-Hu and his chair were nowhere to be found. Today, there's a crater on the moon named after Wan-Hu... and I'm not making this up. When Tim walked into my psychotherapy office for his first couples session, he was scared. He was convinced that his wife would attack him in front of me, and that I'd pile on. This is a common reason why guys won't come for counseling. Most men would rather get shot out of a cannon then walk into a therapist's office. If they're wife, girlfriend, or wife and girlfriend don't force them, they'd never do it. By the time Tim left my office at the end of that first session, he was relieved. None of what he feared occurred. In fact, I told him, and his wife, that such behavior would not be allowed in my room. "You see," I explained, "real change can only happen if both of you feel safe. When we feel threatened, the part of our brain that can listen, and understand English, goes off-line. We can't take in new information. And if you can't hear your partner, nothing is going to move." One way that I create safety when I am doing couples therapy is by setting safety rules. The first rule is: no personal attacks, either verbal, or physical. Advertisement But, wait a minute, is there really something wrong with verbal attacks? Aren't millions of people supporting a candidate for president, Donald Trump, on the basis of his ability to verbally attack others? Trump's supporters must see this as a good thing, as a sign of strength, in fact, as what qualifies him to be the leader of the free world. Let me admit a bias on this question based on my years of research and professional and personal experience. I do not believe that personal attacks have any place in our relationships, whether with your wife, child, neighbor, employee, political rival, or even your perceived enemy. It certainly doesn't do any good in your own head, especially when you turn it against yourself. Why are personal attacks bad? Because they engender shame. Shame is the feeling that goes along with the belief that we don't measure up as human beings. Shame is a feeling that we are often not aware of; it is something that lives in the background, like the hum of the air conditioner. Instead of shame, we are usually aware of other emotions -- frozen terror in social situations, rage at your wife for telling you the shelf you just put up is in the wrong place, depression that comes from telling yourself that you are worthless and unlovable. We also know our shame through our bad habits. Shame is at the core of our compulsive behaviors. Needing to medicate that pain drives our destructive use of drugs, food, or sex, and then the compulsive use feeds our shame, making us feel even worse about ourselves, leading to a self-immolating death spiral. Advertisement Where does toxic shame come from originally? The number one source is trauma. In an extreme example, my client, Rose, was continually sexually abused by her father since she was a little girl. For most of her life she was convinced that it was her fault. She still struggles with her shame, believing that if she was treated that way she must deserve to be treated poorly. But trauma doesn't only come from obviously awful experiences. Shame can be created by small wounds over a long period of time. Here's where those personal attacks come in. If you are subject to chronic verbal attacks, it will eventually lead to shame. Eventually, the straw will break the camel's back. This shame then lives under the surface, like a virus, damaging our lives in a myriad of ways. Unfortunately, we live in a culture that promotes this kind of shaming behavior. Just watch Fox News -- they break all of my safety rules as a matter of course. Surrounded by this kind of behavior, all too many of us are unaware of its deleterious effects. Donald Trump is only the logical end point of a culture that celebrates destructive interpersonal behavior. People will say that Trump is great because he says what is on their mind. But what I have discovered in my work is that the first thing that pops into our heads isn't usually the truth. If someone points out a mistake I made, my initial reaction is, what a jerk! But this is really the angry voice of my own shame. If I dig down a little deeper I find that the truth is that I feel ashamed of myself and I'm angry at the other person for bringing my awareness to my imperfection. The other thing we hear in support of Trump's shaming is that people are sick of political correctness. Holding back from insulting someone isn't a question of being PC -- it is a matter of not wanting to contribute to someone's shame and fostering the harm that ensues. It might be fun, but like a pack of cigarettes, it's not good for you, or the people around you. Advertisement Lastly, Trump supporters would say that the only important thing is winning, and this justifies crushing others in any way you can. It is true that you can get a kind of sullen obedience by shaming others, but in the end this leads nowhere. Every one of my clients who beat themselves up relentlessly just end up in a depressed, dysfunctional inner stalemate and never do what they try to force themselves to do through shaming insults. Every tyrant creates a resistant rebel. By Ashley Redmond, Contributor Warren Buffett, also known as the Oracle of Omaha, is the third richest man in the world worth close to $60 billion, according to Forbes' "2015 World's Billionaire list." And at 85 years old, the Berkshire Hathaway CEO shows no signs of slowing down. If you want to become the next Buffett -- that is, an extremely successful investor, businessman and philanthropist -- click through to find out which steps you need to take and which Buffett-like traits you need to adopt. 1. Decide That You're Going to Be Rich In order to be rich, you have to believe that one day you will be rich. Buffett once reportedly said, "I always knew I was going to be rich. I don't think I ever doubted it for a minute." Advertisement Set high expectations for yourself, and work toward your goals and aspirations. "Then, make it clear to yourself, your family and friends that you have a commitment to become financially independent," said Randall "Dolph" Janis, an insurance agent at Clear Income Strategies Group. "Create your future with a plan, knowing when to get aggressive against knowing when to be conservative -- and that can produce the results of your goal to become the next Warren Buffett. " 2. Start Saving at a Young Age At the age of 15, Warren Buffett was making $175 a month delivering newspapers, according to OldSchoolValue.com. From that job, he accumulated $1,200 in savings and bought a 40-acre farm in Omaha. The lesson? "Start saving money as early as possible, so that you get into the habit," said Brittney Castro, founder and CEO of Financially Wise Women. 3. Reinvest Your Profits Legend has it that when Buffett was in high school, he and a friend bought a pinball machine. According to WarrenBuffett.com, the pair put it in a barbershop, and it was a success. With the profits from the first machine, they bought more and ended up having eight in different shops. The friends eventually sold all the machines, and Buffett used the money to buy stocks and start a small business. Advertisement If you want your fortune to continue to grow, the best thing you can do is keep reinvesting it. Of course, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor, but don't spend it all. 4. Graduate College Early Did you know that Buffett attended college for only three years -- two at the Wharton School of Business and one at the University of Nebraska? Although college costs weren't nearly as high as they are today, it's likely that Buffett saved money by finishing college in three years instead of four. And today's college students will likely save even more. Unfortunately, many are drowning in debt. But, an early graduation can save you approximately $40,000 at a private college versus nearly $20,000 at a public college, reports Forbes. To graduate early, try taking as many credits as possible per semester. 5. Bounce Back From Rejection Ironically, Harvard Business School rejected Buffett after his interview. But instead of sulking, he headed to Columbia and met Benjamin Graham. Graham is a legend in the investment industry, and he became Buffett's mentor. Much of Buffett's incredibly investing success could arguably be credited to Graham and the lessons he taught him. "Turned down? Who cares, keep going, it happens all the time," said Thomas Scuccimarra, vice president of sales at M&O Marketing. "You can't take it personally, and you can't let it push you off course of your dreams." So even if you don't get into your school of choice, keep moving forward. If Buffett had quit after Harvard dismissed him, he wouldn't be where he is today. Advertisement 6. Communicate in Person In 1951, when Buffett was digging around looking for companies to invest in, he stumbled across GEICO. To investigate the company further, he rode a train to the company's headquarters. According to GEICO's website, the office was closed, so a janitor let him in and luckily a top executive was there and they had a meeting. Afterward, Buffett made one of his earliest stock purchases and bought GEICO stock. Today, the insurance company is a subsidiary wholly owned by Berkshire Hathaway. Don't underestimate the value of face-to-face communication. Sometimes a phone call or email just won't cut it. Like Buffett, have a conversation in person to make connections and gather information. 7. Be Persistent When Buffett graduated college, he wanted to work on Wall Street. He offered to work for his mentor Ben Graham, but Graham said, "no", writes author James Altucher. So, Buffett went back to Omaha -- but he still continued to pitch ideas to Graham. Eventually, Graham hired Buffett. If you get a "no" from a potential employer that you really want to work for, never take it as a final final answer -- keep trying until you get a "yes." 8. Master Public Speaking Good public speaking skills can take you far in your profession. However, it's speaking in front of large groups can be terrifying for some -- even Buffett. In fact, Buffett admitted that used to throw up before public speaking. Advertisement But instead of letting his fear cripple him, Buffett took the necessary steps to improve his public speaking skills. He took a Dale Carnegie public speaking course and he learned that he could, in fact, speak in front of a group of people. Buffett went on to become an excellent orator. 9. Maintain Good Savings Habits In the book "Icons of Business," Kateri Drexler writes that when Graham closed his partnership, Buffett returned to Omaha. Luckily, he was in a good situation: By being a good saver and avoiding debt, he grew his savings from $9,800 to $140,000. He then went on to create Buffett Associates, Ltd. Paul Tarins, president and founder of Sovereign Retirement Solutions, said, "When evaluating your cash flow, you should understand that the more revolving debt you carry, the more you will diminish the amount that can be invested." By saving money and avoiding debt, you too can take advantage of investment opportunities like Buffett. 10. Surround Yourself With People Who Believe in You In order to create Buffett Associates, Ltd., Buffett invested $100 and relied on seven of his family members and friends to help provide the financial banking. Without the support of his family and friends, Buffett's company would've been hard to create. So surround yourself with people that believe in you -- not only those who can financially assist you, but can morally lift you up as well. 11. Find a Business Partner One could argue that Buffett wouldn't be successful without Charlie Munger, his billionaire right-hand man. According to Omaha.com, the pair met in 1959, and today Munger is the vice chairman of Berkshire Hathaway. Advertisement Buffett once wrote, "It took a powerful force to move me on from Graham's limiting views. It was the power of Charlie's mind. He expanded my horizons." Together, they took on some of Buffett's largest acquisitions, such as BNSF Corp. Find a business partner that you trust and ultimately challenges your mind to be more successful. 12. Convince People to Invest in You In an interview with C-SPAN, Buffett said his first investors "were betting on a 25-year-old that looked about 12 and acted 20." But somehow -- maybe because many of them were his family members and friends -- Buffett was able to convince them to take a chance on him. Use your powers of persuasion to convince others to invest in your company or ideas. It might take some time, but it can be done. 13. Establish a Low-Key Headquarters Berkshire Hathaway is located in a fairly average-looking building in Omaha. But since Buffett is worth close to $60 billion, shouldn't his headquarters be in a nicer building? No. "Your personal image is not the perception of how successful you are. Don't be someone you are not," said Janis. Buffett owns who he is -- a humble, grounded and notoriously frugal man. Flashy headquarters wouldn't suit him. Own who you are, and it'll resonate with those around you as authentic. Advertisement 14. Live Frugally Speaking of being frugal, that in itself is an important step you should take if you want to be like Buffett. Unlike other billionaires who live a lavish lifestyle, Buffett is known for living very modestly. In fact, Munger once told the Motley Fool, "Frugality is basically how Berkshire happened." "There are things money can't buy," Buffett also told the Motley Fool. "I don't think standard of living equates with cost of living beyond a certain point. Good housing, good health, good food, good transport. There's a point you start getting inverse correlation between wealth and quality of life. My life couldn't be happier. In fact, it'd be worse if I had six or eight houses." 15. Invest in Yourself Part of Berkshire Hathaway's success is because Buffett put his money where his mouth is and invested in himself. Tarins believes that's imperative if you want to become the next Buffett. "The best way to achieve wealth is always to pay yourself first," he said. "Many people are currently doing this by investing through their company's retirement plan. If you develop the habit of always paying yourself first, you will be extremely successful in acquiring wealth." 16. Stick to Your Guns Berkshire Hathaway does not pay a dividend. In fact, it paid out its only dividend of 10 cents in 1967, reports Investopedia. And Buffett claimed that he must have been in the bathroom when this happened. Advertisement Buffett reportedly doesn't like dividends for two reasons: they are taxed as income, and different investors expect varying levels of dividend payouts. Not receiving a dividend from Berkshire Hathaway is probably a sore spot for many investors. Regardless, Buffett refuses to pay one. To be like Buffett, stick to your guns if you believe in something -- even if it goes against the mainstream school of thought. 17. Be a Contrarian Investor In the investing world, Buffett is what you would call a contrarian investor -- meaning he's known for buying assets that aren't doing so well and then selling when they do perform well. As he once wrote for the New York Times, "Be fearful when others are greedy, and be greedy when others are fearful." Being a contrarian or a value investor can take you far. Mitch Goldberg, president and CEO of investment firm ClientFirst Strategy, explained in a piece for CNBC that being a contrarian "requires identifying a company that will execute a plan to grow the business and at the same time has decent fundamentals ... so that if the plan takes longer to execute or if it doesn't work, you'll at least potentially have something of value that you could sell at a later date." 18. Don't Invest Emotionally This is one of the hardest pieces of investment advice to follow. Many investors have the urge sell stocks when the market is down. Buffett doesn't, and that's why he's such a great investor. To invest like Buffett you have to ignore stock market cycles, and put your emotions aside. Advertisement 19. Make the Tough Decisions Berkshire Hathaway's core business was originally textile mills and Buffett maintained them for many years. In 1985, he sold the mill's equipment because they weren't making him any money. In fact, they were a drain on his company. According to Bloomberg Business, the "textiles produced a loss of 1.32 million" in 1985. The decision might have been tough for Buffett to make, but it was imperative to his success. To be like Buffett, you'll have to make tough decisions. 20. Invest in What You Know Buffett is famous for holding Coca-Cola stock; he purchased a 6.3 percent stake in the company in the late 1980s. And as of Feb. 18, 2016, Berkshire Hathaway has about a 9 percent stake in the company and its holding value is $17.5 billion, reports CNBC. Buffett certainly knows coke well -- he drinks up to five cans a day, and he once said, "I'm one-quarter Coca-Cola." Investing in what you know and like might be the smartest decision you'll make as an investor.n. 21. Be Honest Buffett is known for his honesty. In the 2013 Berkshire Hathaway shareholder letter, he admits to losing $873 million by purchasing Energy Future Holdings' $2 billion debt and called it a "big mistake." Advertisement Honest business practices build trust between colleagues and among staff and even competitors. Moreover, investors then express confidence by offering more funding. The lesson? Be honest, it'll likely help your business in the long run. 22. Give Back As far as philanthropists go, Buffett is one probably one of the most philanthropic men in the world. Along with Bill Gates, Buffett is donating over half of his wealth. In 2010, he started the Giving Pledge with the Gates family, which encourages billionaires to commit to giving away a large portion of their money while they are living or in their wills. To be like Warren Buffet you'll have to give back, and his reason why is simple: "If you're in the luckiest 1 percent of humanity, you owe it to the rest of humanity to think about the other 99 percent." 23. Limit Your Activities How do you accumulate close to $60 billion like Buffett? You work hard, sure, but you also focus on just a few projects or activities. To explain Berkshire Hathaway's success under Buffet, Munger wrote in the company's annual shareholder letter, "Buffett's decision to limit his activities to a few kinds and to maximize his attention to them, and to keep doing so for 50 years, was a lollapalooza. Buffett succeeded for the same reason Roger Federer became good." Keep Reading: 21 Surprising Facts You Never Knew About Warren Buffett We just returned to our home in Rancho Mirage, California from our condo in the sky after a whirlwind trip of five days in my beautiful Chicago. As many of you know, in Chicago, we live on the 71st floor of a condo building with our dog, Orchid, who often lies on the window ledge listening to the city clamor of cars honking and sirens screaming as she eyes Neiman Marcus far below. She is happy! I am like Orchid. I am happy. I love the action of my city, the vitality of the people who live there, the tourists who walk our streets mesmerized by its beauty. I love the lifestyle I have chosen. I am like Chicago! Older, vibrant and alive! It matters not that I am defined as an older woman and a grandmother of 20 grandchildren. That is a blessing. Advertisement I realize that I am older in years, but I also know that I am young in my mind, wise in my thinking, and filled with inner happiness in 90 percent of everything I do. I am fortunate to have the happiness gene because studies suggest that 50 percent of happiness is gene-related; 40 percent is learned and 10 percent is out of our control. Do you have a Grandchild who is unhappy? If so, I think you, darling Grandmothers, can be instrumental in helping your Grandchildren. Grandchildren can be taught happiness skills! Here are a few of my ideas to help your Grandchild find the joy in life. Self-esteem: Having self-esteem makes you proud of yourself and therefore happier. Notice your Grandchild's special ability and play it up. Here is an example: you notice your unhappy Grandchild loves to watch birds. Buy the child binoculars, a camera and a note pad. He will acquire a skill and "feel" happiness. I said birds because I am noticing the hummingbirds in my yard as I write! Appreciation and gratitude: Teach your Grandchildren the value of appreciation. An example, you are walking down the street and find a penny on the ground. You pick it up and say, "I am so happy. I found a lucky penny for you." And then proceed with a short lesson on how the smallest thing can make you "feel" happiness. I am a firm believe that a happy person is a grateful person! TEACH YOUR GRANDCHILD THE VALUE OF GRATITUDE! Advertisement Kindness and compassion: You feel happy when you are kind to others. Teach your Grandchildren the importance of being kind even if it is with only a smile or a thank you. It is a human instinct to "feel" happier when you are kind. Smile: Studies suggest that when you smile, even if you are not happy, your mood is elevated. Teach your Grandchildren the value of smiling, because smiling reinforces happiness. Tell them to practice smiling! If you smile right now you will feel happier. Try it! Friendship: "Grandchildren, friendship is all about quality." Give an example of how to choose a happy best friend! Explain to your little darling that it is better to have one close happy friend in your life then a dozen unhappy ones. Explain that choice is important. For your Grandchild who is not blessed with the "happiness gene," explain to him or her that happiness can be learned and that alone should make your Grandchild feel happy. Do something "GOOD" today: tell your Grandchildren how special they are! IMAGE VIA DADDYBURNSTHESALAD.WORDPRESS.COM Earlier on Huff/Post50: US Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders addresses a rally at Colorado State University's Molby Areana in Ft. Collins, Colorado, February 28, 2016. / AFP / Jason Connolly (Photo credit should read JASON CONNOLLY/AFP/Getty Images) During my senior year in college, I applied to become an intern at the State Department's Foreign Service Institute. After passing a lengthy background check, I was given the lowest level security clearance (after all, I was only an intern) and allowed to learn more about American diplomacy. Bill Clinton was president at the time, and I actually thought he was a wonderful president when I was younger, although my vantage point has changed considerably over the years. Ultimately, my experiences at the Foreign Service Institute helped shape my worldview, and in many ways helped teach me about the nature of political power. Let's just say my writing has been influenced somewhat by my experiences at FSI's Office of Special Programs, and I'm happy I had the opportunity to be an intern at this government department. Advertisement However, if I had been linked in any way to an ongoing law enforcement investigation, I'd never have been accepted even as an intern, and certainly would never have been given the lowest possible security clearance. Truth be told, you couldn't get a job at McDonalds if you were linked to an FBI investigation. Today, Hillary Clinton is linked to an ongoing FBI investigation, because she used a private server for "convenience." The former Secretary of State and her supporters believe she's the best qualified candidate for the presidency. This state of affairs exists, in spite of the fact 100 FBI agents are investigating the "convenience" of storing Top Secret intelligence on what Wired refers to as a "Security Fail." Something tells me that the words "Commander in Chief" and "ongoing FBI investigation" shouldn't be uttered in the same sentence. If you find it odd that America's top diplomat would need to circumvent government networks, then your viewpoint likely coincides with the 100 FBI agents currently working on this case. Advertisement In reality, Clinton could do well on Super Tuesday, and beyond, however there's only one Democrat not linked to an FBI investigation in 2016. There used to be an era in American politics where running for president, and being linked to an FBI investigation was a bad thing; no longer, we've evolved from that point to a new way of governing. The reality is that Bernie Sanders is the true Democratic front-runner in 2016, not only because he defeats Trump by a wider margin than Clinton (he beats Trump by 6 points, while Clinton only beats Trump by 2.8 points), but because his candidacy and presidency won't be halted by the FBI. Bernie Sanders is the only leading candidate with positive favorability ratings, whereas 67% of Americans distrust Hillary Clinton. Most importantly, Clinton's email server most likely jeopardized national security. Thus, the former Secretary of State's quest for convenience could easily derail her campaign very soon. Below are five reasons Hillary Clinton's email server harmed national security. The issue will very likely propel Bernie Sanders towards the White House, and even though I believe Bernie will defeat Clinton in the primaries, the FBI could put the finishing touches before the summer. As you read the information below, just imagine if Dick Cheney, and not Hillary Clinton, had engaged in such behavior. 1.The former chief of the Defense Intelligence Agency believes Hillary Clinton should "drop out" of the race. I was recently on CNN New Day with Victor Blackwell, discussing one of my recent Huffington Post articles, and mentioned the fact Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn believes Hillary Clinton should "drop out" of the race due to the ongoing FBI investigation. Here's what President Obama's former head of the Defense Intelligence Agency said to Jake Tapper on CNN: Advertisement Washington (CNN)President Barack Obama's former top military intelligence official said Hillary Clinton should pull out of the presidential race while the FBI investigate her use of a private email server for official government communication while secretary of state. Lt. Gen. Michael Flynn, the retired chief of the Defense Intelligence Agency, made the call in an interview with Jake Tapper on "The Lead." "If it were me, I would have been out the door and probably in jail," said Flynn, who decried what he said was a "lack of accountability, frankly, in a person who should have been much more responsible in her actions as the secretary of state of the United States of America." If the former head of America's Defense Intelligence Agency, under Obama, would have "been out and probably in jail," then how in the world do Hillary supporters justify Clinton as president? 2.This FBI probe involves two data companies that were unaware of one another's role in storing Clinton's data. Two data companies, Platte River and Datto, were involved in storing Clinton's data. Most disturbing is that even the companies involved with Clinton's IT infrastructure sensed something bizarre. The Washington Post quotes one employee email stating "Starting to think this whole thing really is covering up some shaddy [sic] shit." Furthermore, miscommunication between both companies is highlighted in a Denver Post article titled Denver firm in Clinton e-mail mess didn't know of cloud backups: Advertisement Platte River Networks learned in August that its backup service Datto was storing Hillary Clinton's e-mail in the Cloud two years after contact began... The moment Denver's Platte River Networks realized that e-mails of its most famous client were being uploaded into the cloud, 26 months had passed since signing on Hillary Clinton and her family... Platte River and Datto have been pointing fingers at each other... The company was told the e-mail server was for the Clinton family and personal staff -- not for classified information. If one company believed it was storing personal data, and not classified information, then insufficient security protocol could have resulted from this miscommunication. Miscommunication between both companies and Clinton, as well as storing sensitive data on a cloud, could have made it easier for hackers to compromise classified data. 3.Former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates believes the "odds are pretty high" that Iran, China or Russia may have gotten to Clinton's server. One top U.S. official believes that classified data is already in the hands of other nations, as stated in an article in The Hill titled Ex-Pentagon chief: Iran, China or Russia may have gotten to Clinton server: Advertisement Former Defense Secretary Robert Gates says he believes foreign countries like Russia, China and Iran may have hacked the private email server Hillary Clinton used while secretary of State. "Given the fact that the Pentagon acknowledges that they get attacked about 100,000 times a day, I think the odds are pretty high," he said Thursday during an interview on "The Hugh Hewitt Show." Gates said he agreed with former acting CIA Director Mike Morell's claim that the server had probably been hacked by either Russia, China or Iran. If Robert Gates says "the odds are pretty high" that the classified data on Clinton's server is in the hands of enemy nations, then security officials should be concerned with how these countries could utilize such data to undermine U.S. national security. 4.Bryan Pagliano pleaded the Fifth, therefore investigators don't know the full extent of Clinton's security disaster. Since Pagliano is the person who "installed and maintained" Clinton's private email network, and won't currently talk, there's no way to know the entire story behind Clinton's homebrew server. According to CBS News, "IT professional Bryan Pagliano was paid $5,000 for computer services by the Clintons before he joined the State Department staff, the Washington Post first reported." 5.Edward Snowden believes it's "ridiculous" to think Clinton's emails were secure. According to The Guardian, "Edward Snowden has branded as 'completely ridiculous' the idea that Hillary Clinton's personal email server was secure while she was secretary of state." Advertisement Make your birthday special - by brewing a beer originally made on that date. For a mere 25 euros, I'll create a bespoke recipe for any day of the year you like. As well as the recipe, there's a few hundred words of text describing the beer and its historical context and an image of the original brewing record. Just click on the button below. FILE - In this Tuesday, Dec. 18, 2007 file photo, Lauren Fant, left, winces as she has her third and final application of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine administered by nurse Stephanie Pearson at a doctor's office in Marietta, Ga. Protecting girls from cervical cancer might be possible with just one dose of the HPV vaccine rather than the three that are now recommended, a new analysis has suggested on Wednesday, June 10, 2015. The study isnat convincing enough to change vaccination strategies but if the results are confirmed, requiring just one dose of the vaccine could have a big impact on how many girls in both developed and developing countries get immunized. (AP Photo/John Amis, File) The news is good, but it could be so much better. The journal Pediatrics recently published a study that compared the prevalence of the human papillomavirus (HPV) in American girls and young women in the years before and after the HPV vaccine was first recommended in 2006. CONCLUSIONS: Within 6 years of vaccine introduction, there was a 64% decrease in 4vHPV type prevalence among females aged 14 to 19 years and a 34% decrease among those aged 20 to 24 years. This finding extends previous observations of population impact in the United States and demonstrates the first national evidence of impact among females in their 20s. [snip] Although rates of HPV vaccination have been increasing in the United States, coverage is still low; in 2013, a national survey found that 57% of 13- to 17-year-old females had received at least 1 dose and 38% had received 3 doses. [NOTE: The recommendation is for a 3 dose course] This is incredibly important because HPV causes some really nasty forms of cancer. For women, just about every case of cervical cancer -- which, according to the CDC, "usually does not have symptoms until it is quite advanced and hard to treat" -- results from HPV. Over 4,000 American women die from it every year. Overall, 18,000 women and 9,000 men get cancer of some kind from HPV (others include cancer of the vulva, vagina, penis, anus, and back of the throat). Additionally, more than 400,000 American women are diagnosed annually with pre-cancerous cervical lesions resulting from potential HPV infections. These women may undergo multiple cervical biopsies, and many require the removal of a portion of their cervix. This can increase the risk that they will deliver prematurely in the future. Premature birth is the number one risk factor for infant death, and one of the leading causes of brain damage and numerous other health problems in children. Oh, and don't forget that HPV can also lead to genital warts. Lovely. Additionally, only about 20 percent of boys aged 13 to 17 are immunized. This matters both for their own health, and because boys and girls spread HPV through sexual activity. The previous two words are the ones that largely explain why vaccination rates in the U.S. aren't higher. *** First, doctors aren't recommending the vaccine strongly enough. Here's what a University of North Carolina study found: Advertisement Background: Low human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination coverage stands in stark contrast to our success in delivering other adolescent vaccines. To identify opportunities for improving physicians' recommendations for HPV vaccination, we sought to understand how the communication context surrounding adolescent vaccination varies by vaccine type. [snip] Conclusions: Our findings suggest that primary care physicians perceived HPV vaccine discussions to be burdensome, requiring more time and engendering less parental support than other adolescent vaccines. Perhaps for this reason, physicians in our national study recommended HPV vaccine less strongly than other adolescent vaccines, and often chose to discuss it last. One young woman's story exemplifies this problem. When Vanessa Laven was a college student and resided in the suburbs near New York City -- not exactly the most conservative of areas -- she made an appointment with her gynecologist and asked for the HPV vaccine. What did her physician say? You don't need it. Why? Because, he said, she's a "good girl" from a "good family." She didn't get the vaccine, and now has to live with the consequences of that paternalistic advice. "It was totally about sex," said Laven, now 29, living in Minneapolis with her husband, and, sadly, positive for both HPV and the precancerous cell growth associated with it. "The discussion of the vaccine was tied up with some old-fashioned notion of virtue." Then there's the parents. Some parents in this country are simply opposed to vaccines in general, as Mickey Mouse and the rest of us learned the hard way about a year ago. But the specific resistance to HPV vaccination goes far beyond that general anti-vaccine hysteria. As with Vanessa Laven's doctor, it's about sex. There are some parents who think that their teenagers -- and this applies even more so with girls -- won't have sex and shouldn't have sex and sex is bad and how dare you bring up sex? These are many of the same people who think sex education should consist of teaching abstinence only because anything else will give kids the "wrong idea," and will somehow encourage them to have sex by making it less dangerous. Apparently, these parents think HPV vaccines are just as threatening to their morality as students learning to put a condom on a banana. And they're right -- but not in the way they'd expect. Advertisement Research shows that young people who get comprehensive sex education are "not more likely to become sexually active, increase sexual activity, or experience negative sexual health outcomes." The same is true for those who receive an HPV vaccine. A study from the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found: "Human papillomavirus vaccination was not associated with increases in [sexually transmitted infections] in a large cohort of females." Finally, the HPV vaccines are safe. There have been no documented side effects beyond "brief soreness and other local symptoms at the injection site. These problems are similar to those commonly experienced with other vaccines." I know, I know, how can science compete with what people know in their gut? All kidding aside, what kind of person says: I know this vaccine might save my children's lives, but -- without any basis in fact -- I think it might encourage them to have sex at a younger age, so I won't let them have it. That's a kind of insanity that I -- a parent of two girls myself -- simply cannot fathom. There's a pretty high likelihood that, at some point in their lives, my daughters will be sexually active. When that day comes, I couldn't live with myself if I had done anything to increase the risk that they'll die from it. That may not be the way some parents think of their actions, but that is the reality. As a society we are reluctant to increase the reach of government, to expand its authority in ways that interfere with liberty. That's a sound instinct in general, as government should step in only when actions by private citizens prove ineffective or harmful. And that is the case here. Liberty is one thing, but parents denying their children potentially life-saving medical care is another. The vaccination needs to take place before the onset of sexual activity, as it will not help a person who has already been infected with HPV. That's why the medical community, through the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), recommends vaccinations begin at age 11-12. If parents won't get their kids vaccinated on their own, we have to require it for the sake of their children, just as many states do for multiple other vaccines. The least we could do is offer it in schools, like other countries do. Rwanda has a 93 percent HPV immunization rate for girls. Why don't we? Advertisement We cannot allow Victorian attitudes held by adults about sex to put their children's health and lives -- disproportionately female lives -- at risk. Call it the nanny state, call it big government, whatever. But let's also call what the anti-HPV vaccine parents are doing to their kids by the right name: child abuse. [Note: This will be my last blog post as the President and CEO of the New York State Health Foundation; on March 1, 2016, I will be the Robert Derzon Chair in Health and Public Service at NYU. Sign up here to receive e-mail notifications of new posts.] After 10 rewarding years, I step down this week as President of the New York State Health Foundation and join the faculty at New York University. In other places, I have reflected on my experiences running the Foundation, but here I thought I would reflect on the ups and downs of health care and public health in New York State. As president of a foundation helping to support medical care innovation, healthy living, better health policy, and more attention to the real health needs of New Yorkers, I have had the privilege of watching our health system evolve and try to improve. Some of what I observe, I am super-impressed with. Other aspects of what has happened over 10 years, I find disappointing. Advertisement Here is my scorecard (and I urge you to think about your own scorecard of positives and negatives and share some ideas in the comments section below!): A Positive: The success of the ACA in expanding insurance coverage This is clearly a home run. More than 2.8 million New Yorkers have signed up for health insurance coverage as a result of the Affordable Care Act. And, more than half of those are Medicaid enrollments. In the past, it has been extremely challenging to get Medicaid-eligible New Yorkers to actually sign up for coverage, so this is an especially welcome development. A Negative: The consumer-friendliness of the ACA and the medical care system overall Expanding coverage is only half the battle! I've tried to help loved ones navigate the enrollment process, and it's so challenging. And once people are enrolled, it's hard to know how to use the health insurance they have: Which providers are in-network? How much will I have to pay out of pocket? Which surgeon should I use for my back surgery? Patients just don't have access to the kinds of information they need to make good decisions about their care. A Positive: The growing focus on supporting people to lead healthier lives We have known for a long time that medical care is only a small part of what makes us healthy or sick, but it seems that only in the last 10 years has there been real momentum to push for changes outside the medical care system. Now, we are seeing money and energy to encourage healthy eating and physical activity through community interventions and policy change. And we are seeing interest not only from the health care and public health worlds, but also from those working in education, housing, business, transportation, community development, parks and recreation...the list goes on and on. People are seeing that all of these areas affect the health of our communities. This focus on a "culture of health," as the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation calls it, is a welcome development. Advertisement A Negative: The blunt use of co-payments and the high cost of health care for consumers We still have not figured out how to encourage high-value care and discourage low-value care in a meaningful way. High co-payments amount to an annual tax for people who are chronically ill and who are most vulnerable. Health care is unaffordable for too many working New Yorkers; it makes no sense that people earning $50,000 a year might spend $20,000 on health care. Other industries (automobiles, airlines, computers) manage to offer quality products at a range of price points, but we have not attended to this issue in health care. A Positive:Innovation spurred by State government to slow the costs of our large Medicaid program The impact of the Medicaid Redesign Team, which led to the $8 billion waiver and now the Delivery System Reform Incentive Payment (DSRIP) program, has been so important in focusing attention on getting our health care spending under control. The introduction of spending caps, a clear goal to reduce avoidable hospital use by 25% over 5 years, experiments with care management and health homes, and more attention to the care delivered outside of the hospital setting are all going in the right direction. Kudos to our State government and a broad set of health care leaders for making the Medicaid Redesign Team work so effectively. A Negative: The unfulfilled promise of integrated medical records Even more than 10 years ago, HEAL NY (the Healthcare Efficiency and Affordability Law for New Yorkers) was established with the intention of investing up to $1 billion in State funds to improve health care delivery, with a focus on establishing interoperable health information technology (in English, this means health records that the full range of health care providers treating a person can share in an electronic way). In addition, in 2009, New York State received substantial federal stimulus dollars to improve health IT. These investments did spark some success, and we have seen momentum with the New York eHealth Collaborative (NYeC) in fostering innovation, pushing for electronic health records, and developing the Statewide Health Information Network of New York (SHIN-NY). But after all this time, and hundreds of millions of dollars, we still lack a widespread, integrated medical records system in New York State. A Positive: Rapid expansion of access to primary care I have often said that community health centers are the jewels in the crown of our health system, providing high-quality care and serving as a critical safety net. With New Access Point funding through the Affordable Care Act, dozens of health centers throughout the State have been awarded approximately $380 million to expand capacity and serve hundreds of thousands more patients. A statewide plan developed by the Community Health Care Association of New York State (CHCANYS) identified opportunities for sustainable growth of health centers to provide more than 1 million additional patient visits each year. And, just last year, Mayor de Blasio announced the $20 million Caring Neighborhoods initiative, which will expand primary care services for more than 100,000 New York City residents in underserved neighborhoods. A Negative: The inability of health care providers and payers to share important information with patients This relates a bit to the complexity of our medical system I described above, but the lack of transparent information is a huge challenge. If patients are supposed to be at the center of our health care system, they should have access to the information they need to make good decisions related to price and quality. New York's all-payer claims database, long planned, is still not off the ground. Such a resource would bring together encounter and payment data from Medicare, Medicaid, and commercial insurers and could be a tremendous resource for price transparency, quality oversight, policy research, and health systems transformation. FAIR Health is developing an online shopping tool for New Yorkers that will provide meaningful price and quality data. But there persists a reluctance among providers and payers to share these types of information in ways that help consumers make the best decisions for their health and for their pocketbooks. A Positive: The positive energy of medical care providers preparing for new payment approaches For too long, the way we pay for health care has perpetuated perverse incentives: the volume of care has been rewarded over the quality and value of care delivered. But there is tremendous momentum for that to change. New York State has set formal goals that 90% of all Medicaid payments and 80% of all commercial payments be made under value-based arrangements. Catalyst for Payment Reform's New York Scorecard on Payment Reform shows that we are making some progress. Although most payments still rely on a fee-for-service model, a significant share of payments is "value-oriented," with one-third of payments designed to boost the quality of care patients receive. This approach is also consistent with the growing focus on population health and disease prevention; providers recognize that new models of care will allow them to (and be paid to!) help patients stay healthy and manage their chronic illnesses. Advertisement A Negative: The slow emergence of disruptors we need so urgently Although we have seen some exciting innovations in health care (the emergence of ZocDoc, Oscar, CityMD, and a range of apps focused on both wellness and medical care), there has not yet been what I would consider a "blockbuster disruptor" that can spur others to be creative. To truly improve our health system, we need something with the scale and drama of Uber, or Facebook, or Google. Adequate numbers of innovators simply haven't arrived on the health care scene. And I would guess that we need folks from outside of the usual players in health care to be truly disruptive, to turn what's broken about our system on its head. And, for sure, disruptors will make those of us who have worked in health care for many years get more creative also! Clearly, we have a lot to be proud of; New York has always been and continues to be a leader in health care. But there is still more important work to be done. I look forward to keeping an eye on progress through a different lens as I start my new job! "Young people are capable of doing much more today than ever in the history of mankind," Muhammad Yunus once announced to crowds at the 2012 Social Good Summit. Years later, it appears what the father of microfinance proclaimed is ringing ever more true. With technology moving forward at an unprecedented pace, it seems that our digital natives are poised to disrupt industries and deliver social impact like never before. Photography by Jaron Soh The World Economic Forum recently released the Global Risks Report 2016, which outlines our world leaders' greatest worries for the next ten years: social instability, food and water crises, climate mitigation failure and extreme weather events. With the world's population booming at a rate that our food supplies cannot catch up with, millions will remain hungry, and millions more face the risk of being incapacitated by the vicious cycle of poverty. Our existing aid systems alone are unable to cope with the unpredictability and scale of our social issues. More so than ever, it is imperative that our youths step up to shoulder the burdens of the global ills our current leaders are unable to fix. Now, if you are looking for a melting pot of the world's brightest youths, I suggest you look no further than the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE). At our university, students hail from 140 countries, and over 100 languages are spoken on campus. The campus streets are adorned with dynamism: from animal rights campaigners and civil rights protesters, to champagne socialists and aspiring investment bankers. Intensely flavourful, LSE is home to some of the most politically active and socially minded global youths. Yet, a question often springs to mind: How will our graduates apply their knowledge to better the world? Advertisement Photography by Beth Sandland The university's 16 Nobel Prizes leaves an inspiring legacy for our students to follow. However, recent employment statistics from the LSE portend a worrying trend. In spite of the global financial crisis, tightening financial regulations and consequent downsizing of financial firms, it seems LSE graduates' enthusiasm for the financial sector shows no sign of waning. The top employment sectors for our graduates firmly remain banking and finance. Despite their potential to trail-blaze social change, most LSE students still gravitate toward the stability of a career in finance. There is an invisible competition for talent between the fields of social impact and finance, and the latter has consistently triumphed. Undoubtedly, London's financial district serves an important role. But if our youths continue this myopic march toward the finance industry, our world will find itself in an even more precarious state. With a shortage of innovative minds in the social impact space, we risk going past the many tipping points that currently plague our world. As millennials, we have been privileged and inundated with opportunities, yet, most of us simply do not regard development as a viable career option. Photography by Beth Sandland There is an obvious systemic lack of educational infrastructure to nurture social entrepreneurship. Beyond educating youths of the fallacy that the concepts of profit and charity are mutually exclusive, more so than ever, our education systems need to inculcate empathy and instil a much-needed social agency. Recognising this, LSE has made efforts to nurture more graduates for the social impact space. In 2015, the school announced the launch of the Marshall Institute for Philanthropy and Social Entrepreneurship, which will introduce much needed social entrepreneurship academia and place-based experience for its students, including a Master's programme, executive courses and certified curriculum for the wider student populace. Advertisement The past fall was also the first time the US$1,000,000 Hult Prize Challenge was held at LSE. Held in partnership with the Clinton Global Initiative, the Hult Prize is a social impact competition that challenges university students to build innovative social enterprises to solve a pressing world issue. Every year, the winning team receives a million dollars in seed funding and support from the international business community to launch a social startup. But the Hult Prize is more than just a competition. It is a global student movement to ignite our youths' inner spark for social change. As the Campus Director of the inaugural Hult Prize at LSE, I have been heartened to witness the passionate responses of my peers to the first social entrepreneurship competition of its kind to be held on campus. This year, instead of competing in the financial industry, over 100 LSE students took the leap of faith to compete over social enterprise. Photography by Ashley Seah Students formed teams and pitched their business models for the 2016 Hult Prize challenge of "Crowded Urban Spaces" to a distinguished jury, including one of LSE's Nobel Prize winner in Economics, Sir Christopher Pissarides. The solutions were wide-ranging and possessed huge potential. The LSE winning team, Dapurasa,, is a food delivery platform leveraging on the untapped potential of street food vendors in the informal economy, while another team, LabourChowk, is pioneering a jobs discovery service aiming to move tradespeople up the pyramid in the developing world. Photography by Beth Sandland The Hult Prize has instigated a much-needed push for other world's brightest youths towards social enterprise. Recently, it announced another record-breaking 25,000 applications for its 2016 Accelerator Program globally and had 8 Hult Prize alumni named to Forbes' annual "30 under 30" list. Advertisement Something changes in you after entering the Hult Prize ecosystem. This global competition does not merely teach you business acumen or pitching skills. It has taught me, and so many others, to challenge our innate assumptions about the world. Last year, Colorado Republicans eliminated their nonbinding caucus votes on presidential candidates, but the voting will go on anyway, "for fun," in Adams County, according to Adams Country GOP chair Anil Mathai. Two Denver caucuses, in state house districts two and six, will also hold informal votes, according to a post by GOP activist Florence Urbish Sebern in a Facebook post.. The question is, will the Republicans who participate in these straw polls, and then go on to become delegates to the National Republican Convention, be able to vote for a candidate other than the one they favored in their "for-fun" straw-poll vote. Advertisement "Those delegates would not be disqualified," wrote Josh Putnam, an expert on the caucus process, when asked if Colorado delegates would be banned from voting under GOP rules. "If anything, the worst that could happen is that any delegate chosen from that county would be bound at the convention. And that would depend on one of that group actually being chosen to attend the national convention." Putnam emphasizes that many GOP delegates from Colorado could go to the national Republican convention committed to supporting specific presidential candidates. (I've explained this here.) "There are a lot of folks who are peddling this fiction that CO (& WY) will have unbound delegations," Putnam explains on Twitter. "This is not the case." "The members of the Colorado delegation to Cleveland who align with a candidate when they file to run as a delegate are bound to that candidate," writes Putnam, who's a lecturer in the Department of Political Science the University of Georgia--and whose blog is widely cited. "Presumably even if that candidate drops out (as there are no rules in the COGOP bylaws covering such an event). That's all based on the RNC interpretation of the COGOP rules." Advertisement Adams County Republican Chair Anil Mathai announced his county's straw poll on KLZ 560-AM's Rush to Reason. "Across the state, there is no straw poll, but in Adams County we have a non-binding unofficial 'for fun' straw poll," said Mathai on air. "I want to hear the voice of the people. So we will have one for U.S.presidential candidates as of Feb. 1 and also one for U.S. Senate candidates out of Colorado." "In Adams County, we're just doing it for fun," Mathai emphasized again at the end of the interview. But whether Mathai's notion of fun comports with the Republican rules is another matter. Initially, the statewide GOP straw poll was supposed to be nonbinding as well. But the national Republican Party told Colorado Republicans that if they held a straw poll, it had to be binding. So Colorado Republicans decided against having one. 1. Bungy (or Bungee) Jump in Queenstown "If all of your friends jumped off a bridge, would you do it too?" Well, actually mom, YES! It defies reason and common sense, but there's only one true way to get the ultimate Kiwi experience. Bungy jumping! There are plenty of options when it comes to taking the plunge, some unconventional, some daredevil. The easiest way to ease into jumping headfirst off a cliff? Bungy jumping at Kawarau Suspension Bridge with AJ Hackett Bungy. Over 140 feet above the rushing Kawarau River, you will dive headfirst toward that bright blue, glacially-fed waterway sure you're going to die. And then... the tips of your fingers will dunk into the water, and you spring back up, away from certain death. It's an adrenaline rush unlike any other. 2. Get Hobbity The most obvious way to do this is by visiting Hobbiton on the North Island. But you can get a less-known Hobbit experience by horseback riding in Glenorchy, just outside of Queenstown. On the back of your glorious steed you can trace the pathways walked by Frodo and his companions, with the Remarkables Mountain Range as your backdrop. Several operators offer horseback riding tours, I recommend High Country Horses. 3. Cruise the Majestic Fjords of Milford or Doubtful Sound The weather in New Zealand's Fiorland is notoriously unpredictable. The majestic fjords may be shrouded in mist, or pelting rain may take a little of the joy out of the experience. But if you manage to visit Milford or Doubtful Sound on a good day -- a day when the waterfalls are crashing with fresh rain but the sun is shining and the air is filled with the rainbow mist -- you will think you've left this planet and found Narnia. And what better way to get cozy with those powerful waterfalls and towering mountains than a leisurely cruise? There are several operators who run tours for a range of budgets. The best way to see both? Base yourself in Te Anau, drive to Milford on your own (the drive is a spectacular show by itself), then cruise to Doubtful from Te Anau. Advertisement 4. Walk on a Glacier Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers, on the West Coast of the South Island, are the most famous of New Zealand's great frozen fields. In either of these small mountain towns you will find options to helicopter over, heli-hike, or simply hike your way up to the crystalline ice flats. There are a half-dozen companies that offer these services, and it's worth the cost. On a bright sunny day, the ice looks like thousands of tiny diamonds sparkling in the sun. 5. Kayak the Abel Tasman The blue-green water and white sand beaches look tropical, but you haven't left New Zealand. The Abel Tasman National Park is easily the most-overlooked jewel of the country. Perched at the top of the South Island, this beautiful national park has unlimited opportunities to kayak, hike, and camp. If you have the time, hike your way to off-the-beaten-track Awaroa on the Abel Tasman Coast Track, camping or staying in cottages available for rent along the way. If you're short on time, base yourself in picturesque Nelson and take a kayaking day tour with Abel Tasman Kayaks. 6. Swim with Dolphins in Kaikoura Travelers rave about this opportunity to swim with the dusky dolphins off the east coast of the South Island. If you've always dreamed about being a mermaid or merman, the Dolphin Encounter in Kaikoura is your opportunity to experience just that, minus the fish tail. Pro Tip: Book well in advance, as the tours book up quickly. 7. Take the Ferry from the South Island to the North Island If you're roadtripping New Zealand, it's possible to keep your car as you hop from the North to South, or vice versa. There are two major ferry lines that operate this route: The Interislander and the Bluebridge Ferry lines. Both operate out of Picton on the South Island and Wellington on the North. The giant boats take vehicle and foot passengers, and it's like a 3-hour pleasure cruise through the Cook Island Strait. Advertisement 8. White Water Raft Rotorua For an aquatic adrenaline rush, go no further than Rotorua. Home to several incredible hot springs, it is also home to the Kaituna River, which boasts one the highest commercially-rafted waterfalls in the world. Believe it or not, you do not need to have experience to raft it, either. Soaring nearly 23 feet in height, it is a pulse-pounding experience that you will want to replicate again and again. I recommend Rotorua Rafting, but there are several credible operators to choose from. 9. Sail the Bay of Islands There are dozens of ways to experience the beautiful harbor of the Bay of Islands in the far north of the North Island. You can use the opportunity to learn to sail, you can charter a yacht, or you can take part in an organized tour. If you want to be there when the action is, there is a Sailing Week each January that you can check out. But this stunning showcase of nature is best experienced away from the crowds. With over 140 islands in the region, it's easy to find yourself isolated and surrounded by the best New Zealand has to offer. What other New Zealand experiences do you think should be on this list? Comment and let me know! Someone dies from gun violence every 16 minutes in America. YOU CAN DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT is a series of candid interviews with the passionate men and women who are leaders, activists and influencers on the subject of gun violence in America. Some have been my teachers, champions and support system on this very complicated and emotional journey and some I have admired from afar for their bravery, audacity and indomitable commitment to the cause. Although our backgrounds, experiences and the challenges we face in our work are as complex as the causes and the solutions to this epidemic, all have shown that there is more that can be done to end the senseless loss of human life that occurs in this country every 16 minutes every day due to guns. I am proud to introduce you to each of them and excited to share their insights into how all of us can be a part of the solution to Raise The Caliber of our communities. Name: Shepard Fairey Age: 46 Race/Nationality: Southern Where do you live? Los Angeles, California What quote do you live by? "The future is unwritten." - Joe Strummer What are you most proud of about your work/life? "I'm proud that beginning with few resources I've been able to build a career and an audience through my art, which many people have said inspired them to speak their mind and use their talents. In my life I'm proud that I have an amazing family and my kids seem to be turning out okay, even though everything I believe in at one point or another my parents said would be the road to ruin. Advertisement What is the biggest challenge you face in your work? "Finding the balance between making the work that is visually appealing but also communicates the messages that I think are important." Why do you think we have such a problem with gun violence in America? "We live in a country that has largely glamorized the myth of the armed hero who protects the powerless and saves the day. The statistical facts demonstrate that the introduction of a gun into a household is far more likely to result in a death by accident, suicide, or homicide from a family member than it is to be used in a justifiable act of self defense." What do you think is the biggest misconception about why we have such a problem with gun violence in America? Advertisement "I think there are several, but I frequently hear the argument that it's purely a mental health issue when yes, there are many instances of mentally unstable people resorting to gun violence, but there are also people who are only momentarily mentally unstable due to an impulsive emotional response or drugs and alcohol. I think we've all done something we regretted a moment later and the scale of that regret might be dependent on the tools we have such as guns, to make the scale of the error larger. Even though I'm very opposed to assault weapons and high capacity magazines, because of the amount of destruction they can cause in a short amount of time, I think that the pervasiveness of hand guns is the bigger problem." Do you think there a law that the government could enact that would really make a difference in reducing gun violence and building safe communities? "I think in the short term, closing the gun show loophole so there is no situation when the gun can be purchased without a background check is important; but in the long run I'd like to see guns with safety features similar to those on a smartphone like a thumbprint or a personal code that allows only the owner of that gun to use it. What are three things the average American citizen can do to "Raise The Caliber" of their community? "1 - Support buyback programs to get illegal guns off the street. 2 - If you are a gun owner, do what should be obvious and logical, keep your guns unloaded and out of reach of children. Advertisement 3 - Learn how to use a gun properly. A gun is a serious amount of responsibility to learn how to use at all. I grew up hunting with my father and he would not let me shoot a gun until I had been through many steps of education and precaution." Is there a must read book or article on this topic that has educated and inspired you? "I've read lots of things that help me to understand that the United States is extreme in its number of guns and obsession with gun rights and the second amendment; I've also read many things that explain that guns make households less safe, not more safe, but a couple of the things that affected me emotionally about guns came from pop culture. Even though Lynyrd Skynyrd are southerners and one might assume that they would be gun advocates, their song "Saturday Night Special" spoke strongly about the perils of guns and tragedies that can come from guns. Also the movie "Boyz n the Hood" affected me because guns were so commonplace and part of macho posturing that it seemed to lead to a decreased respect for the value of human life." Tonight, all eyes are on the Dolby Theatre and the 88th Academy Awards. But tomorrow morning -- after that 500 foot-long red carpet (which gets rolled out along Hollywood Boulevard every year so that the stars then have something grand to stand upon) has been packed away -- where can one then go to experience some of the glitz & glamour of today's Tinseltown? Well, some people might stroll up the block to the TCL Chinese Theatre. This cinematic temple originally opened back in May of 1927 and is famous for its Forecourt of the Stars. Which is where you'll find the hand & footprints some of your favorite stars immortalized in cement. But me personally, I prefer the El Capitan Theatre, the movie palace that actually predates the Chinese Theatre which is located right across the street from the Dolby Theatre & the Hollywood and Highland Center. Advertisement Mind you, when the El Cap first opened its doors back in May of 1926, it wasn't a movie theatre. But --- rather -- "Hollywood's First Home of Spoken Drama." During the 15 years that this 1,550 seat venue operated as a legitimate theatre, over 120 live plays were presented here. And among the cinematic greats who trod its boards were Clark Gable, Mary Pickford, Buster Keaton and Will Rogers. It wasn't 'til May of 1941 that the El Capitan Theatre finally became a motion picture theatre. But given that the very first film to be screened here was Citizen Kane (More to the point, given that Orson Welles was forced to rent this stage venue for the West Coast premiere of his magnum opus because theater owners wouldn't screen Kane out of fear of reprisals from William Randolph Hearst), some serious Hollywood history has been made inside of this six story-tall building. Right through the 1950s, Hollywood Boulevard remained the place to go if you wanted to see a first fun film and then enjoy a fine meal. Which is why the El Capitan and Grauman's Chinese (not to mention their sister theatre, Grauman's Egyptian) continued to do great business. As did all of the elegant eateries in the immediate vicinity. Fabled restaurants like the Musso & Frank Grill, the Pig 'N Whistle and the Brown Derby. But with the rise of the suburbs and the decentralization of Los Angeles (Not to mention the construction of several modern-era multiplexes out in Burbank & Westwood), Hollywood Boulevard's movie palaces gradually fell from favor as the 1960s gave way to the 1970s. Advertisement As for the El Capitan, it changed hands a number of times over this same period. And -- for a time -- it seemed destined to go the route of the Warner Hollywood Theatre. That Tinseltown institution (which opened its door in April of 1928 and was one of the very first venues in the United States that was equipped to show talking pictures) stopped screening movies in the early 1990s and eventually became home to the Ecclesia Hollywood Church. But then Disney took a shine to the El Cap. They saw a lot of potential in this faded beauty. Which is why -- in 1989 -- the Mouse partnered with Pacific Theatres to do a floor-to-ceiling restoration of this Hollywood Boulevard institution. Pouring $14 million in the project, Disney's reconstruction team even went so far as take paint scrapings from the theaters walls and look at them under microscopes so that they could then match the El Capitan's original paint scheme. It took over two years for this museum-quality restoration to finally be completed. But when the El Capitan finally re-opened in June of 1991 (Here's a fun bit of trivia: The very first film to be shown in this newly renovated movie palace was Disney's The Rocketeer. Which -- given that this Joe Johnston action-adventure was set in & around Hollywood of the 1940s -- was very appropriate), movie buffs were dazzled. Not just by all of the attention that had been paid to the building's Spanish Colonial exterior and its East Indian interior, but also by the fact that the El Capitan Theatre was now home to a 1920s-era "Mighty Wurlitzer" organ. Which rose from below the stage before each screening and then played Disney songs. And for nearly 25 years now, the El Capitan has been dazzling Hollywood visitors and film fans alike. Mind you, it's sometimes something of a challenge to be an iconic movie palace which recalls a bygone era and -- at the same time -- be the sort of first-run theater that (thanks to its cutting edge projection & sound equipment) people prefer to see new releases at. But James Wood, the industry vet who's in charge of operations & stage productions at this Tinseltown institution, says that his team is more than up to that task. "One thing's for sure here at the El Capitan: The people who work here love a challenge. Whether it's the world premieres that we regularly hold here for Walt Disney Pictures or the various seasonal events that we also hold at this theatre, we pride ourselves on being able to deliver a top quality experience to each & every movie goer," Wood enthused. Advertisement And some of those seasonal events really have to be seen to be believed. Take -- for example -- what happened at the El Capitan earlier this month. Which was when James and his team transformed the lower lounge area at this theater into a romantic Italian eatery. "This is actually something that we've been doing for about four years now," James explained. "We screen Lady and the Tramp over the Valentine's Day Weekend. But before each of these screenings, we offer our patrons the chance to have a candlelit dinner. One that's catered by Miceli's so that these cinema fans -- if they chose -- can then recreate that special moment from this Disney animated classic and share spaghetti with their loved one." And speaking of animated classics, out ahead of the March 4th release of Zootopia, the El Capitan recently held a week-long retrospective of Walt Disney Animation Studios' most recent releases. "And what was really great about this program was that -- not only were animation fans getting the chance to see some of their favorite Disney films like Frozen & Tangled & Wreck-It Ralph back up on the big screen -- but we also had the voice talent & the directors of those movies come by the theater and introduce each of these films. We even had meet-n-greet opportunities prior to these screenings where the first 75 people in line then got the chance to interact with the talent," Wood stated. And it's not just today's film fans that James and his team tries to cater to. For all those Hollywood history buffs out there, the El Capitan offers a docent-led, behind-the-scene tour where guests can then visit backstage areas like the Sherman Brothers Star Dressing Room. And for the next generation of movie-goers, this cinematic temple also offers its Tiny Tot Tuesday program. Where -- for the very first showing on every Tuesday -- the El Cap's lights are dimmed and its sound levels are reduced. Which makes for a far less frightening first-time-at-the-movies for skittish youngsters. Advertisement "We're also going to be celebrating the El Capitan's 90th anniversary sometime later this year. We've already got some fun special things in the works for that. But since we're still in the process of finalizing our plans for that right now ... Well, I don't want to say too much just yet," James smiled. In honor of AIDSWatch 2016 taking place this week in Washington, D.C., Elizabeth Taylor's granddaughter Laela Wilding and great-grandson Finn McMurray have shared their thoughts on HIV prevention. AIDSWatch is the largest constituent-based HIV advocacy event in the U.S., bringing hundreds of HIV advocates to Washington, D.C. from across the country to educate Congress about the policies and resources needed to end the HIV epidemic. How can we expect to see an end to the HIV and AIDS epidemic our grandmother so fiercely fought if we are not educating our children and providing them with the knowledge they need to protect themselves from HIV? Since the mid-80s when the horrible specter of AIDS infiltrated our lives, much progress has been made. The founder of The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, my grandmother, was a leader at the forefront of the fight against this disease. She used her massive platform and raised her voice for those who did not have one. She fought, and fought hard, to reduce stigma and to advance medical care for those living with HIV. I will always be proud of the impact she has made, and I, along with many family members, have made a promise to help continue her work as an HIV and AIDS advocate. Advertisement Thirty-some years into the epidemic, life-saving drugs have been developed and are available for people living with HIV. AIDS used to be called a "death sentence," now we are concerned with helping the aging HIV+ population. Things have improved so much that people in their 30s and younger don't seem to think about HIV or AIDS at all. And that is a problem. 1 out of 5 new HIV infections occurs in young people under the age of 25. This age group is seeing an increase in new infections, likely because an estimated 50% of young people that have contracted HIV are unaware of their status, do not receive treatment and therefore unknowingly pass it on. There are some very simple steps we need to take to stem the tide of increasing numbers of new infections among our young people. Put simply: know the facts about HIV and other STIs, use a condom, and get tested regularly. Many teens do not have a clear understanding of the risks of their sexual behavior, which is majorly due to lack of access to comprehensive sexual health education. Unfortunately, only 20 states and the District of Columbia mandate both sex education and HIV education. Thankfully, President Obama has recently eliminated a $10 million annual grant from the 2017 budget towards funding abstinence-only sexual education classes in public schools. It's about time - seeing that this method has been a proven failure. The United States has one of the highest teen pregnancy rates in the developed world with more than 750,000 women aged 15-19 becoming pregnant annually. (1) Additionally, people aged 15-25 contract about half of the 19 million STIs annually (2). Less than 25% of high school students who've had sex have been tested for HIV despite the fact that the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend routine HIV testing once a year at a minimum. Advertisement Congress has the opportunity to remedy this problem by eliminating federal funding for abstinence-only sex education and instead co-sponsor the Real Education for Healthy Youth Act (REHYA). The correlation between comprehensive sex education is definitively one of the best tools we have to fight the spread of HIV. This would include medically accurate information that addresses the physical and emotional needs of young people with an emphasis on inclusion and accurate health information. As a parent, I believe that thorough, medically accurate, comprehensive sexual education should be taught in all schools, with an emphasis on abstinence. After all, abstinence is the only 100% reliable form of STI and birth control. In no way does it make sense to me, the mother of two kids, to deny our young people access to potentially life-saving information. I am convinced that the ideals of all parents can be included in REHYA, particularly with the provisions to opt out of the program. That way, most of our young people will be informed on how to have safe sex when the time is right for them. For those parents that truly wish to shield their children from that information, they may do so. I am excited to return to AIDSWatch with ETAF this year, and that my teenage son, Finn, will be joining us to raise his concerns about sexual education in our schools. I am proud that he is coming to Capital Hill to share the perspective of our young people. The state of sexual health education from our youth I am a seventeen-year-old, currently in eleventh grade at a public high school. Along with my family, I have become involved with my grandmother's Foundation, The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation, as well as HIV and AIDS organizations in our home town of Portland, Oregon. As a young person facing the issues of HIV, I believe that education and prevention are of the upmost concern for reducing stigma and increasing awareness. Even in my high school that participates in comprehensive sex education, there is a lack of information and conversation about HIV. Likewise, mainstream media rarely addresses any issues relating to HIV, denying its relevance in our society and globally; when it is discussed, the language used is often archaic and perpetuates stigma. These unfortunate attitudes reinforce the idea that HIV is a topic that we should keep quiet. This teaches young people that openly discussing HIV is not acceptable in our society, creating an influx of stigma and denial, which in turn creates a lack of awareness of the disease and a lack of willingness to take critical measures that could protect one from contracting and spreading the virus. Providing an inclusive and respectful environment to talk about sexual health allows young people to become sufficiently informed with medically accurate information, which will aid us in making informed decisions to both protect ourselves and others. This can be achieved through the Real Education for Healthy Youth Act, which will be one of the most significant topics we will be pushing for at AIDSWatch this year. Advertisement We need to move away from stigma, shame and ignorance and work toward acceptance, knowledge and empowerment in comprehensive sexual health education, including information about HIV and legitimizing our LGBTQ communities. About the guest bloggers: Laela Wilding is a Graphic Designer and serves as an Ambassador to The Elizabeth Taylor AIDS Foundation and Board Member of Our House. Finn McMurray is a student and Laela's son. "This above all: to thine own self be true," Polonius tells his son Laertes in the first act of William Shakespeare's Hamlet. And the bard's advice is good, as we find that voters may be picking candidates based on what they think they stand for, instead of the candidate's real stand on the issues. Let's face it; it isn't easy to find out where the candidates stand on the issues. Sound bites from politicians on newscasts can be measured in nanoseconds. Watching the debates doesn't exactly produce a roadmap, as we began with more than 20 of them, broken up over three debates. And when the candidates get into shouting matches and mudslinging, it's hard to figure out where the candidates stand on, let's say, Social Security or student loans. And political talk shows are known for oversimplifying, even distorting candidate stands or records. I decided to see if my students actually agreed with the candidates that they supported. So I gave them two tests. In one test, I had them tell me, in advance, which candidate they thought they supported (like, Dr. Ben Carson). Then I had them take a quiz from OnTheIssues.org, where the students themselves provided answers on questions about what their stands were on about 25 issues. Then the test would tell them which candidates they really supported (like John Kasich). Advertisement Of my 23 students who took the test, only three correctly matched the candidate they thought they supported with one that had similar issue positions. Now I know you're thinking that they're college students, and a bunch of dummies. That's not the case. They did much better on a prior ideology test, where they had to guess whether they were liberal, conservative, centrist, libertarian or authoritarian. More than half correctly matched their ideology to their stands on the issues. Even among those that missed their ideology, most were off just a bit (thinking they were conservative when they were actually libertarian, or thought they were centrist when they were really liberal). Hardly anyone thought he or she was a liberal and was really a conservative, or believed he or she was a libertarian, and was really an authoritarian. It was the same with the candidate matching. Some thought they were Donald Trump supporters, and really backed Jeb Bush, or anticipated liking Ted Cruz and really preferred Marco Rubio. We didn't have any Bernie Sanders-Ben Carson mismatches. Advertisement And just so you don't think I'm above it all, I took the tests myself. On the CNN test, I correctly picked my candidate. But I was more closely matched with another candidate (who has since dropped out) for the "OnTheIssues.org" test than the one I hope to vote for in Georgia's primary. To overcome this, I had my students work on an election guide, like the ones the League of Women Voters used to put out, identifying candidate similarities and differences on 26 issues. We are also having a presentation on campus, where we let students pick the issues and we tell them where the candidate positions are. It should help the attendees with their vote choices. For as Polonius warns his son "And it must follow, as the night the day, thou canst not then be false to any man." I have a paper clutter problem at home. One cause of that problem is that I tear out newspaper and magazine articles that interest me. I figure I'll use the articles for reference or blog content at some later point in time, so the paper collects in files or small piles. I was getting a jump on spring cleaning when I found on my floor a ragged article featuring this obituary headline: Far-right, anti-Semitic organizer who denied the Holocaust This obituary for -- I'll call him "Mr. C" -- was the largest headline on the page. Most prominent obituaries trumpet the professional or civic accomplishments of the deceased, leaving a reader with a sense of a community's or family's deeply-felt loss. But, Mr. C's obituary read like a resume of his efforts to advance extremist beliefs. Even Washington, D.C.'s spin-meisters wouldn't salvage this one. I wondered: Did a bitter family member submit the obituary? Nope. Maybe there was someone left behind who was getting left out? Nope. This missive was written by "Staff Reports." It was fine, objective reporting and writing. The staff worked with what they had. Advertisement There didn't seem to be any material that could cast the deceased Mr. C in a sympathetic or heroic light. There weren't statements to indicate his beliefs actually helped anyone. What more could staff say about an apparent recluse, who didn't seem to have any personal or significant relationships? Even his wife lived in a different city, and there was only one sentence to acknowledge her existence. The obituary noted that Mr. C was notorious for his "extremist views" that "resonated with generations of neo-Nazis, conspiracy theorists and other fringe elements." Among his recommendations was that "black Americans be deported to Africa." (We've heard that one before.) Evidently, Mr. C's pro-segregation/apartheid/white separatist/anti-Semitic publications and organizations landed them on Anti-Defamation League and the Southern Poverty Law Center watch lists. Mr. C was noted as being way far right and conservative. But, not even William F. Buckley, Jr. wanted him in his camp. I looked for nuggets of humanity and personal relationships; some bit of redemption in this long summary of Mr. C's life. I thought he would have been beloved among his fellow extremists, but he wasn't. He had failed relationships, even among that crowd. His network was strewn with burned bridges. Advertisement Upon his death, only the publications Mr. C founded said anything positive. They expressed gratitude that he championed their extremist causes. The only additional information I gleaned was that he had served in the military and earned a Purple Heart. In contrast, I saw this heading for a politician's death notice in Time magazine, February 15, 2016: "Beloved mayor, convicted felon." This heading ticked off the plus and minus boxes of the mayor's life. The writeup was brief, but very clear that the mayor's legacy was his contributions to his city, through his support of arts and historic preservation, new parks, and schools. The pluses of the mayor's life eclipsed his felony conviction. I was laughing when I described Mr. C's obituary headline to a friend. Were there raucous cheers out there somewhere at the news of his demise, like the residents of Oz when they heard "the Wicked Witch is dead"? I was incredulous that this was the best life this guy was willing to live, and he had worked very hard at it. Readers might surmise that Mr. C had succeeded in being an asshole his entire adult life. Even though it was funny in that sense, it was very sad in another. No friends, no family, no life. Let's consider Mr. C's obituary to be Exhibit A for how you do not want to be remembered. In her book Thrive, Arianna Huffington said that people can "live up to the best version of [their] eulogy." Along that same line, a famous poem, The Dash, explains that life occurs in the dash between your date of birth and your date of death. The poem concludes with the question whether you would be proud of the things said at your eulogy. Republican presidential candidate, Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., right, right, speaks to Republican presidential candidate, businessman Donald Trump during a commercial break during the CBS News Republican presidential debate at the Peace Center, Saturday, Feb. 13, 2016, in Greenville, S.C. (AP Photo/John Bazemore) Donald Trump needs to be defeated. He is awful, yet I maintain that his entry into the race is a long-term good thing for three reasons. First, he exposes the media as serially unserious and demonstrates that the press can no longer be trusted. Trump has many documented cases of shady mob associates and an incredible string of failed business ventures. He once even financially threatened a woman in a private deposition over his Trump University scam. Trump's daily reality show distracts journalists from these past offenses. Second, Trump may have been boorish in doing so, but he forced topics onto the agenda that would have otherwise remained hidden (illegal immigration is the most notable). Most importantly, Trump was a test for the Republican establishment... and oh how miserably have they failed. Advertisement Trump's rise should have challenged the establishment to come to grips with how much they are disliked by Middle America. Expert commentators seem not to have noticed, but the Tea Party protests were mostly about tactics, not policy. Republicans are fed up with their leaders' inability and unwillingness to fight for policies the voters want. In general, Republican voters want less spending and less government, but most of all they want someone with the intestinal fortitude to fight. People are tired of the establishment picks like George W. Bush, John McCain and Mitt Romney. They want someone who will end business as usual. But the Republican establishment refuses to learn. There is one candidate in the race that indisputably fits the bill for what rank-and-file Republicans seem to want: Senator Ted Cruz. He doesn't just stand for conservatism; he has fought the establishment and was hated by them in return. They are slow learners. Trump is such a buffoon surely establishment Republicans would realize that the support for him was a protest vote and a warning signal to set a course correction? Nope. First, you had Arizona's perma-Senator John McCain echo Trump's birtherism, then former Senator Bob Dole shamefully endorsed Trump over Cruz. Advertisement The most recent failing grade comes from the establishment's wagon circling around Marco Rubio. The establishment seems to think support from Dr. Carson and Cruz would bleed over to Rubio because it consolidates the non-Trump vote. However, a large portion of that support would go to Trump, not Rubio. The establishment thinks that Rubio would work because they see him as a young, "Hispanic JFK." They are wrong. First, normal Republicans don't care about identity politics nonsense. Democrats do. Second, Rubio embodies the poor political judgement that has fueled Trump's rise in the first place. That his political instincts have been to hew to Beltway approval in a year when anti-establishment fervor is clearly boiling both parties should be suspect. Rubio gets dinged for his Gang of Eight Amnesty bill, and rightly so, but his campaign strategy is what really prevents him from gathering the support to top Trump. The theory behind Rubio's campaign has been to gather the support of the establishment and then overwhelm the other contenders. However, Trump correctly calculated that people voting with their middle finger far outnumber the establishment this year. It is why Trump is beating Rubio by 20 points in Rubio's own home state. There is no path to victory for Rubio against The Donald when Trump's raison d'etre in the race is the judgement of those whose approval Rubio craves. One establishment tactic used to smear Cruz and bolster Rubio is that the former is disliked by his Senate colleagues while Rubio is well-liked. The latest Economist/YouGov survey showed approval rating for Congress at nine percent. Nine percent!. Please explain to me why being loved by such company is a virtue and not a vice? Rubio is loved by officials that 91 percent of Americans think are terrible at their job. Thus, we have Trump. Unless the establishment wisens up, we could be headed for a general election that is guaranteed to produce a corrupt president. Rubio would be better than Trump, of course, in the sense that any person chosen at random from the phone book would be. Current polling shows that both Cruz and Rubio would beat Hillary, but there is a problem for Rubio. He cannot beat Trump -- he simply cannot assemble a broad, energized coalition like Cruz could. A vote for Rubio is a vote for Trump, pure and simple. In turn, that puts an otherwise unelectable and shockingly corrupt Secretary Clinton in play. Surely the establishment recognizes this. Rather than support someone like Cruz who would have a chance against Trump, they instead are backing someone cast from the same establishment losing mold. Advertisement TOPSHOT - A protestor rallys outside the Plaza Hotel on December 11, 2015 in New York, where Republican Presidential hopeful Donald Trump was speaking at a fund-raising luncheon for the Pennsylvania Republican Party. AFP PHOTO / TIMOTHY A. CLARY / AFP / TIMOTHY A. CLARY (Photo credit should read TIMOTHY A. CLARY/AFP/Getty Images) I feel the need to drop a little truth on y'all. So buckle up... I'm about to be politically incorrect. We don't need to take America back. No one stole it. It's right here... you're sitting in it. Chillax. Advertisement Mexico isn't going to pay for the wall, and we're not going to deport millions of people and break up families. If you think either one is a good idea, you're not smart and probably not a person I want to hang out with. We don't live in a democracy. Technically we are a Federal Republic. But in reality, we are ruled by an oligarchy. If you don't know what that is, look it up. Reading will do you good. You probably need to do more of it. FoxNews, CNN and MSNBC have an agenda and are not "fair and balanced" or in any way unbiased. I'll reiterate... read more. Read newspapers (even online ones). Read lots of opinions and sources and then (stay with me here), THINK! Form your own opinion based on as many facts as your can brain can tolerate. Speaking of facts... there actually is a difference between facts, opinions and propaganda. You should learn the difference. (Another opportunity to show off your mad reading skills.) Science is real. We know things because of science. Don't be afraid of it. You have an iPhone and Facebook because of science. It's your friend. Advertisement Global warming or "climate change" as the cool kids call it IS REAL. Anyone who tells you it's not real is not a smart person and probably should not be dressing themselves or caring for children. Racism exists. And you are probably a little racist and should work on that. Seriously. "American Christians are not under attack. ... No one is trying to take your bible away from you." American Christians are not under attack. We are not being persecuted. We wield so much power in this country that politicians pretend to be Christian just so we will vote for them. No one is trying to take your bible away from you. The gay people are not destroying our families -- we don't need any help from them, thank you. We do a fine job of that by ourselves. So stop saying we are persecuted. You sound stupid. Poor people need help. If you're not helping them but complaining about how the government helps them with your money you are not a nice person. Be nice to the people who teach your children. Don't send them nasty emails or yell at them. Their job is 10,000 times harder than your stupid job. You are not a professional educator so just shut your mouth and be thankful someone is willing to teach your offspring. You don't know what Common Core is. You think you do, but you don't unless you're a teacher. So stop complaining about math problem memes on Facebook. You can't do the math anyway. Advertisement ISIS is not an existential threat to the United States. We do not need to rebuild our military. Our military is the strongest, scariest, most badass killing machine the world has ever seen. So stop being afraid and stop letting politicians and pundits scare you. Guns do in fact kill people. That's what they are designed to do. If you feel you need a gun to protect yourself in America, you are probably living in the wrong neighborhood and should move before you go out and buy a gun. There are like a billion places to live where you won't need a gun, or even need to lock your front door. If you do own a gun, then make sure you know how to use it really, really, really well. Seriously... get some training because you still don't know how to record stuff with your DVR. Go to the gun range and shoot the thing a lot. Learn how to clean it properly and be able to disassemble it and reassemble it with your eyes closed. It's a freaking gun and it deserves that level of care, proficiency and respect. And for God's sake, keep it locked up and away from your kids. If you are even a little bit unhinged or pissed off... you shouldn't have a gun. And the Founding Fathers would totally agree with me. Stop being suspicious of American Muslims. The guy sitting next to you in the cubicle at work is probably more of a threat to you than any Muslim since he has to listen to your uninformed ranting day after day. Advertisement Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, Glenn Beck and all the rest are ENTERTAINERS! Stop getting your opinions from them. (Here's where that reading thing can really be an advantage.) Stop sharing Facebook memes that tell me to share or else Jesus won't bless me with a laundry basket full of cash. That's not how prayer works. And I don't want money delivered (even from God) in a laundry basket. Nobody ever washes those things out and they just keep putting nasty dirty clothes in them. Yuck! We are the United States of America, and we can afford to... house every homeless veteran, feed every child, and take in every refugee and still have money left over for Starbucks and a bucket of KFC. Unless you can trace your family line back to someone who made deerskin pants look stylish and could field dress a buffalo, you are a descendent of an immigrant. Please stop saying that immigrants are ruining our country. Such comments are like a giant verbal burrito stuffed with historical ignorance, latent racism and xenophobia, all wrapped in a fascist tortilla. That's all for now. I feel better. -- LaMonte is an author, missionary, and business consultant who lives Chicago, Illinois. When he is not writing science fiction novels or helping his clients, you can find him serving the people along the Amazon River in Brazil. You can learn more about his work at www.lamontemfowler.com. Advertisement I am thoroughly surprised at Black people's short memories when it comes to politics. Judging by Hillary Clinton's victory in South Carolina, driven by historic Black voter turnout, you would not know that as recently as 2008 Black people were down on the Clintons. Well, if racially charged comments in 2008 are not enough to disrupt Black people's love affair with the Clintons, maybe some history from further back can change people's minds. Actually, while this story does start in the 90s it is still having a profound effect today. But, I digress. This is a story about when good intentions have bad outcomes. In the early 90s when Bill and Hillary Clinton were in the White House, Black homeownership became a major focus of the administration. Most Democratic leaders at the time believed that racist home lending practices were to blame for the Black homeownership rate lagging behind the White homeownership rate. Homeownership was strongly believed to be the driving force of the wealth gap between Whites and Blacks. Owning a home was sold as part of achieving the American Dream and Black people were far behind White people. The Clinton Administration planned to do something about this. First, the Community Reinvestment Act was strengthened to ban "red lining" practices by banks. That was a good thing. Then, banks were pressured to lower their home lending standards. That created the market for subprime loans. Next, the Justice Department began suing banks, pressuring them to make more home loans to Black people. That drove the Housing Bubble and contributed to a massive increase in Black homeownership. And, in 1995, the Department of Housing and Urban Development authorized Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac to begin purchasing mortgage backed securities that included subprime home loans. That encouraged the big banks to enter the subprime mortgage market through mortgage backed securities. I'll also include that the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act in 1999 made it possible for investment banks and savings banks to merge, wedding their futures. And, the Commodity Futures Modernization Act of 2000 deregulated the trading of derivatives like credit default swaps. The last two vignettes were not part of the administration's housing plan, but did have an ultimate impact on Black homeownership. Advertisement Black homeownership soared under the Clintons. When Bill Clinton took office in 1993, 42% of Blacks owned a home. By the Spring of 1999 46.9% of Blacks owned a home- Black homeownership growing three times as fast as White homeownership. But, what seemed like a good idea would go on to have terrible consequences. Because lending banks were being pressured to issue subprime loans a lot of Black people would end up in untenable home loans. Many people started to default on their loans and after a peak in 2004 of 52.2% of Black homeowners, the Black homeownership rate declined 6% by 2010. This is the story of the Housing Bubble. Also, savings and investment banks merged driving together their finances. So, savings banks were encouraged to give out more subprime loans because they were profitable. And, because HUD had created the mortgage backed securities market, banks invested heavily in mortgage backed securities that included subprime loans. When the foreclosures started and the securities began to fail, the entire economy was put in peril. This is the story of the Financial Crisis of 2008. It is obvious that the Clintons had no idea that encouraging an increase in Black homeownership would lead to 2008s financial crisis. I'm sure that was not their intention. However, it is fair to question the judgment of politicians who enact good policies that end up having negative consequences. That can be said about the Financial Crisis, mass incarceration and the War in Iraq. We must hold politicians accountable for their actions. They effect our everyday lives deeply with public policy. It is of the utmost importance that they take the right steps, exercise excellent judgment and not make massive errors. We hold politicians accountable with our votes. If we continue to support them even after an endless number of massive errors that put our well being at risk, they do not change for the better. Editor's Note A HuffPost article that previously existed at this URL has been removed. If you're like me, you're already mourning the end of Downton Abbey. It seems like just yesterday Lady Sybil shocked us with pants. And now, after Sunday, six seasons, over... All over. Golly gumdrops. No more delightfully cutting zings from Grandma Violet. No more Bates to love or Thomas to hate or little Daisy to root for. (Go, little Daisy, go! Reach for the stars!) So what's a Downton fan to do? Enter the 21st century? Ha. (Lady Mary eyebrow raise.) I don't think so. Advertisement Here are eight ways to fill the PBS period-drama shaped hole in your heart. 1. Read anything by Edith Wharton. If you only know her as the author of Ethan Frome, well, you don't know Edith. Read Summer, The House of Mirth, Glimpses of the Moon, The Custom of the Country, or her 1920 Pulitzer Prize winner The Age of Innocence, and you'll quickly realize how much Downton felt like a part of Wharton's world. In fact, taking a look at the rest of her body of work, you'd be hard-pressed to recognize Wharton as the creator of that sad, stoic yankee, Ethan Frome. Most all her other novels are utterly Downton-esque -- everyone is either old money or "nouveau riche"; there are social ladders to climb, balls to attend, schemes, romances, and seasons spent in New York or Newport. The best part? Many are free on iBooks. (And then read Ethan Frome. Because it's fantastic.) (Courtesy photo, credit the Chanler at Cliff Walk.) 2. Get your Grantham on with a visit to Newport, R.I., the stylish port town where the Astors, Vanderbilts -- and Cora Crawley's mother, Martha Levinson -- summered in their, ahem, "cottages." Historic waterfront Newport is a prime New England summer destination spot, but it's also, perhaps unexpectedly, a fantastic weekend getaway in the late winter and early spring. You can tour some stunning mansions -- I'm talking estates to rival Downton itself. Then spin your parasol and twirl your walking cane along the Cliff Walk, a 3.5 mile winding oceanside trail, lined with stately mansions. Warning: You will be want to Instagram everything you see. #WalkLikeaCrowley Advertisement (Couresty photo, credit the Chanler at Cliff Walk.) You can book a room at The Chanler at Cliff Walk, a circa-1873 mansion originally built as a summer home for New York congressman/ lawyer John Winthrop Chanler and his wife, Margaret Astor Ward, great-granddaughter of millionaire John Jacob Astor. Today, it's a luxury, European-style boutique hotel. (Muse at Vanderbilt Grace, Lauren Daley) The Vanderbilt Grace, built in 1909 for Alfred Gwynne Vanderbilt, is now a boutique hotel near the waterfront, housing stunning suites, a billiard room, spa, lobby with majestic fireplace, stately white-columned salt water pool, and two restaurants. Muse, its high-end restaurant, is exactly the type of place Lady Mary would dine. (Vanderbilt Grace pool, Lauren Daley) 3. Read The Great Gatsby, by F. Scott Fitzgerald. It takes place in New York, yes, but, hey, that's where Cousin Rose moved. And because Jazz Age. 4. Watch the Jack Clayton-directed 1974 adaptation of The Great Gatsby, with Robert Redford as ol' sport, Mia Farrow as Daisy and a terrific screenplay by Francis Ford Coppola. Downton vibes everywhere. 5. Super hardcore fans might want to make a pilgrimage across the pond to visit Highclere Castle -- aka the real Downton Abbey -- outside London. It opens for tours in the spring. Dream Journal Idea: It's also available for weddings. Advertisement 6. Highclere also has a virtual exploration app for iTunes and Google Play, narrated by, wait for it, Carson. 7. Read Jane Austen. Yes, her novels take place some 100 years before Downton, so they're more of a prequel to the show, but they've got that same old-world charm and romance. I've read Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility, Mansfield Park, and Emma more times than I can count. Except for the 1996 adaptation of Emma with Gwenyth Paltrow -- not sure why exactly I love that one, but I do -- I don't particularly care for any of the movies. Nothing compares to Austen's language and her original storytelling. You will be utterly transported. (More of Lauren's book suggestions.) 8. Of course, you can always re-watch all six seasons on Amazon or DVD, while drinking tea and crossing your fingers for one of those classic British TV series' here's-one-more-for-you Christmas special. Lauren Daley is a freelance writer, book columnist, music columnist. TANGSHAN, CHINA - JANUARY 26: A railway track is seen in the abandoned Qingquan Steel plant which closed in 2014 and became one of several so-called 'zombie factories', on January 26, 2016 in Tangshan, China. China's government plans to slash steel production by up to 150 million tons, which could see the loss of as many as 400,000 jobs according to state estimates. Officials point to excessive industrial capacity, a slump in demand and plunging prices as they attempt to restructure China's slowing economy. Hebei province, long regarded as China's steel belt, once accounted for nearly a quarter of the country's steel output. In recent years, state-owned steel mills have been shut down and dozens of small privately-owned plants in the area have gone bankrupt. (Photo by Kevin Frayer/Getty Images) Its lights out in Lorain on March 31. The towns steel mill, site of a new electric arc furnace and $120 million investment, had given 1,200 Ohioans good middle-class jobs this time last year. But by April, a relentless avalanche of underpriced Chinese steel will have shoved all but a few of those workers into the street. Advertisement The same is true of steelworkers in Granite City, Ill., Lone Star, Texas, and Gary, Ind., and aluminum workers in New Madrid, Mo., Hannibal, Ohio, and Hawesville, Ky. Its true of glass workers and paper workers in small towns across America. The same catastrophe is slamming small towns across Europe. ArcelorMittal cited the Chinese avalanche when it closed its steel mill near Bilbao in northern Spain last month. Tata Steel cut 1,050 jobs earlier this month from its Port Talbot plant in South Wales. Two weeks ago, 5,000 steel and other workers and managers from 17 European nations gathered in Brussels to protest overwhelming, underpriced Chinese imports. China makes too much steel. And many other commodities. By providing government subsidies and other supports like currency manipulation that are illegal under international trade regulations, China sells those products overseas at prices below production cost, undercutting fair market manufacturers like U.S. Steel and Republic Steel in Lorain. Too much has been good for China until now. Now it wants market economy status in the World Trade Organization. So, suddenly, it has announced it will reduce its excessive steel production. That will cost 400,000 Chinese steelworkers their jobs. It turns out that too much is terrible for Chinese workers and Chinese towns as well. Advertisement Chinese steel firms could accomplish that only with subsidies such as loans that dont have to be paid back, free land and free utilities. These are not companies operating in a market economy. These are government-subsidized entities. And thats fine if all of the products are sold domestically. But these subsidies are illegal when the products are sold overseas because the falsely underpriced products distort what is supposed to be a fair market. Chinese government interference in the international market is damaging corporations like U.S. Steel and ArcelorMittal, the largest steel company in the world. It reported a staggering loss of nearly $8 billion for 2015. U.S. Steels 2015 loss was $1.5 billion. Thats what Chinese steel overcapacity looks like on Wall Street. What it did to Lorain is more visceral. You could see the concern in our members faces, Louise Zimmerman, President of United Steelworkers (USW) Local Union 2354, told me. After Republic Steel announced the layoffs, she said these workers as well as members of USW Local 1104 at the plant wondered, What am I going to do? How am I going to pay my bills when my unemployment runs out? The steel mill is split, with Republic and U.S. Steel using parts of it. Both firms have furloughed workers over the past year. In March, U.S. Steel sent 600 home and Republic 200. In July, Republic furloughed another 125 when it had to shut down its brand new electric arc furnace. Advertisement Then, on Jan. 7, Republic announced it would idle its side of the plant and lay off 200. The next day, U.S. Steel said it would virtually shut its end, laying off 261. Lights out. For Lorain workers laid off last year, unemployment benefits already have run out. Driving around the city of Lorain is pretty heartbreaking, Louise told me the other day. You see people with signs saying, Please help me with food for my family. When I go to the grocery store or stop at a Kmart, normally, there would be a lot of traffic in those stores. Now it is incredibly quiet. Some clerks were folding spring clothes, and they told me they had no place to put the stuff because no one was buying the stuff from the racks from last season. No one is even going to the discount stores, she said. As the two big employers began shuttering operations, they paid less taxes to the city and the school district. Now the city faces a huge deficit and may have to cut services and lay off workers. That would be more people without jobs. And even less taxes paid. And less clothes sold at Kmart. Then fewer people employed there. Louises brother owns a used car lot, and normally at this time of year, when workers get their income tax refunds, his business picks up. But he told his sister he has barely sold a car since the first of the year. In Lorain, people cant even afford a cheap car now. Advertisement And public transit isnt going to help, she said. The USW represents Lorains bus drivers, so she knows the situation well. Because of the towns budget problems, the transit system is unable to add routes. So there may be no way for a person without a car to get to a job. I grew up here in Lorain. And I am very afraid of what is going to happen to this town and to the members of my union, Louise said. And all of this, she said, is because of overcapacity and dumping and currency manipulation thousands of miles away in China. All of it is devastating lives in Gary, Granite City, Lone Star, New Madrid, Hannibal, Hawesville, Port Talbot, Bilbao, and myriad places across the United States and Europe. And now China too. Advertisement National leaders, who closed their eyes, clicked their heels and wished China were a market economy, gave workers and communities and commodity producers not just steel companies this disastrous result. While they kept their eyes shut, China massively overbuilt its steel capacity. China is throwing unemployed workers and bankrupted communities a bone now, saying it will reduce capacity by up to 150 million tons. Thats not nothing. And it will certainly be painful to the 400,000 Chinese steelworkers who will lose their jobs. But Chinas overcapacity is 2.26 times that 340 million tons. After 150 million tons is cut, the remaining 190 million tons of overcapacity is still way too much. The remaining overcapacity is nearly 2.5 times the 78.9 million tons produced in 2015 in the United States, the worlds fourth largest steel producer. China maintains that overcapacity with government supports and currency manipulation. Otherwise it wouldnt exist. And those interventions in the steel industry and other industries mean that China is not a market economy. Granting China that status would make it even harder for workers and corporations to get the tariffs that are the only measures keeping some industries alive now. American and European workers have known for a long time that Chinese overcapacity is terrible. Now, unfortunately, Chinese workers also will soon find out that too much is terrible. But that limited and calculated ploy by China does not justify granting market economy status to a clearly non-market economy. Senator Elizabeth Warren, a Democrat from Massachusetts, left, looks on as U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton speaks during a Senate Foreign Relations Committee nomination hearing in Washington, D.C., U.S., on Thursday, Jan. 24, 2013. Senator John Kerry stressed the need to prevent Iran from acquiring nuclear weapons. He described the 'immediate, dangerous challenges' facing the nation as he seeks confirmation to become secretary of state. Photographer: Andrew Harrer/Bloomberg via Getty Images Hillary Clinton has been fielding questions for months about her Wall Street speaking fees and campaign contributions, in every interview, town hall, and debate. And rightly so; we all know how the banks' fraudulent behavior tanked the economy, and everyone - Left, Right, and Center - is disgusted with what Citizens United has done to campaign finance. Clinton's defense has become streamlined and simple: sure, she took money from banks, but so did Obama - and he still passed very strict regulation on the banks. It seems effective; but there's a huge problem with this argument - so huge, in fact, that it transforms it from a defense into a powerful critique. To understand why, we turn to Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass). Warren recently published a report, titled Rigged Justice: 2016; How Weak Enforcement Lets Corporate Offenders Off Easy. She published an editorial at the same time, in which she outlines and interprets her findings. She starts off by referring to candidates "feverishly pitching their legislative agendas." As she shows, however, laws don't mean anything if they aren't enforced -- and it turns out, in far too many cases, they effectively haven't been. Here's Warren: Advertisement In a single year, in case after case, across many sectors of the economy, federal agencies caught big companies breaking the law -- defrauding taxpayers, covering up deadly safety problems, even precipitating the financial collapse in 2008 -- and let them off the hook with barely a slap on the wrist. Often, companies paid meager fines, which some will try to write off as a tax deduction. In fact, under Obama not a single Wall Street CEO has been prosecuted for fraud. She goes on: These enforcement failures demean our principles. They also represent missed opportunities to address some of the nation's most pressing challenges. Consider just two areas -- college affordability and health care -- where robust enforcement of current law could help millions of people. After giving an example of failed enforcement in each, and then one more in banking, she goes on: Presidents don't control most day-to-day enforcement decisions, but they do nominate the heads of all the agencies, and these choices make all the difference. (Emphasis mine). She cites examples of agencies which, under strong leadership, have truly served the public good, then another example where weak leadership has failed to. Finally, she concludes: Advertisement Each of these government divisions is headed by someone nominated by the president and confirmed by the Senate. The lesson is clear: Personnel is policy. It is so simple that it is obvious once she has pointed it out; and yet most people rarely, if ever, consider the impact of presidential nominations - and of late they have likely done so only because Warren blocked a nominee over their strong ties to the industry they were to police. It's clear, these are the kinds of regulators who don't regulate - and don't prosecute. Warren doesn't put it in such harsh terms, but this is a scathing indictment of the Obama administration. If there were any question about why Obama has not been a Progressive, it is answered here. Warren closes: Legislative agendas matter, but voters should also ask which presidential candidates they trust with the extraordinary power to choose who will fight on the front lines to enforce the laws. The next president can rebuild faith in our institutions by honoring the simple notion that nobody is above the law, but it will happen only if voters demand it. Which brings us back to Clinton, and her defense. It is true, Obama passed strong Wall Street reform; but under his watch not a single Wall Street CEO has been prosecuted, and regulation has been lax. Do we believe Clinton might also pass strong laws? Maybe so; but Warren has proven that the laws are meaningless if they go unenforced. The real question is, would Clinton nominate strong regulators? If we judge her by Obama - as she has repeatedly insisted we should - we must conclude that she would not. In fact, Warren may just have revealed how those massive donations and speaking fees get repaid: by putting the foxes in charge of the henhouse. By comparison, Bernie Sanders has never taken big money from any industry or individual; he has campaigned so successfully in part for that reason. Could we trust him to nominate strong regulators? Not just his current campaign, but everything about his career says we can without a doubt count on him to do so - as Warren knows well. Advertisement With her concluding question, Warren invites us to share her thinking process - and, with her report and her editorial, she provides us with the insights and facts to do so. She shows that we must look beyond the policy agenda to study the person, and decide who we trust. Warren still hasn't endorsed, but she has a way of telling us which candidate she supports. She, better than anyone else, understands the import of taking so much of Wall Street's money; and what it means that Sanders has never taken any from them, or from any other special interest. Amanda Coulson, co-founder and artistic director of VOLTA VOLTA NY is an invitational fair with a unique focus on solo artist projects. It is a curated event that is fashioned to reflect a sequence of intense studio visits. With VOLTA NY only a few weeks away, we reached out to Amanda Coulson, co-founder and artistic director of VOLTA, who talked to us about the motivation for starting VOLTA in Basel and subsequently NY, her artistic goals, and the fair gallery-partnership. On her motivation for starting VOLTA VOLTA started in Basel in 2005 by 3 dealers - Kavi Gupta, Friedrich Loock and Uli Voges - and myself. At the time, several more international markets had just opened and it was getting harder for yet another gallery from Berlin or Chicago, cities with a plethora of contemporary art spaces, to get into Art Basel, as "spare" places were being taken by galleries from Shanghai, Mumbai, Cape Town. There was only one satellite fair, Liste, which was branded as the "young" art fair. I have always enjoyed it but it was located in an old brewery that made it feel like an end-of-the-year show at an art school; we felt galleries deserved a more mature and finished environment. Liste also had an age cut-off; the artists couldn't be older than 40 and the galleries could not be more than 5 years old. This seemed an arbitrary decision since there were many galleries that had been working with emerging artists for 8 or 10 years and were still very innovative. They were not ready for Art Basel yet, but they were "too old" for Liste. There was this kind of obsession with youth at that time, that still exists today, but what does youth have to do with it? Youth does not mean that you are automatically more original. It just means that perhaps you are more naive. This needs to be said for both artists and art dealers. So there were galleries that were left out of the dialogue and they needed a platform. This is why we founded VOLTA and he response was overwhelmingly positive. Advertisement On her artistic goals At the first edition of each fair we had very reduced numbers; in Basel in 2005 we had 23 galleries and in NY, in 2008, we had 45 galleries. When you have these numbers you can really "curate" the fair, but when you reach 75-95 galleries, like now, it becomes very hard to have this kind of approach. In NY, the first three editions had an actual theme, since we wanted the fair to be almost like an exhibition. As we grew, however, it became a compromise between dealers' expectations of the fair and what the fair can do while remaining true to its goals. I still have the same artistic goals I had when we started, that is, I still want to see a booth that is what you would see at a gallery. Our galleries are very often presenting themselves for the first time to a collector base they haven't yet reached, so I always tell them that they should present what they do at their gallery. There, they curate solos or group shows that have an actual theme, not random groupings. I think this is important, so I talk to the galleries about their proposals and make suggestions. Also, in placing the fair, I aim to create a dialogue among the booths themselves. On the fair-gallery partnership Since we started, we have always said that VOLTA was a fair by galleries for galleries. We approached it from a gallery's point of view not a fair management point of view. Fair management has one specific goal: how do I sell as much floor space as possible? Of course, if you are running a business you have to bear that in mind, but all along we have focused on what galleries need to be successful. They come here to do business, so how can we support them? Because if we support them, they will be happy and they will come back next year and we will both benefit. For example, here is how we approached the fair catalogue: The cost of printing a 4-colour catalogue with binding is typically part of the price of the booth. It has to be sent to the printer 2-3 months before the fair; the gallery sends images, but these will likely not be the actual artwork in the booth because the work hasn't been completed yet. The gallery paying for such a catalogue gets one copy. We thought that this approach does not really help galleries as a selling tool, or collectors. So what we do instead is print 1,000 leaflets for each gallery. We can print them just 4 weeks before the fair and this way it's more useful for collectors as well. After the fair, they can see what they saw at the booth. Also, every year after the fair, we send an email to the galleries. We ask: This is what we did this year and this is how we are thinking of approaching it next year. What do you think? We have a small but very active team and we keep the dialogue with the galleries open throughout the year since the galleries are our focus. Advertisement On VOLTA NY VOLTA Basel grew very organically. The first year, we started with galleries we knew and invited; the second year, galleries were applying and we now have about 300 applications for about 75 spaces. It is a tremendous effort to go through all the applications. We were invited to form the fair in NY because the company that owns The Armory Show also purchased VOLTA. At the time, there were already 6-7 other fairs in NY. We thought, how do we differentiate our fair from existing ones? We decided to position VOLTA as the "sister" fair to the Armory. The fair you would visit directly before or after The Armory Show to see the artists who would be there in five years. We decided to have highly-curated, single artist booths at VOLTA NY. When you are a satellite fair you have to realize that people will come to you second, or third, or fourth. So you have to offer something refreshing. We decided to limit the number of artists, to keep it manageable, to make it a pleasant experience. This was our thinking. Unlike Basel, it is not a public application process, to keep it tight; we select the galleries to invite. When we say that VOLTA is a "curated" fair, we also mean that we look whether the gallery has a serious relationship with the artist and this is what makes us strong. We are a very small team of five and we have been doing this together for ten years. This very personal touch is one of the reasons both collectors and galleries like the fair. Concluding thoughts This year we have introduced a new section at VOLTA NY. We invited a NY-based curator, Derrick Adams, to curate an exhibition within the fair. We are bringing in some experimental work and revisit the idea of contextualizing the artwork. It is very exciting and it helps to diversify the fair, as I really want the fair to reflect the city that hosts us. It is also important to note that a fair of any kind goes back to that medieval idea of the market. The marketplace was an event. People would go every three or six months to do business, do their shopping, but also to meet their friends. It is important to note that the fair feels very accessible to the general public. Fairs need to attract collectors and museum curators because it helps the artists' careers, but art fairs also have a role in educating the public, so I feel they are a very valuable resource. Even if it is not the ideal viewing conditions, it is often the first point of entry. People get to see art from all over the world. Fairs are part of an ecosystem that includes museums, galleries, curators, and artists and I believe that every part of this ecosystem is valuable. The transcribed text has been edited for length and clarity. I am not a government-basher per se. As a reporter, I have covered it too long to say the bureaucracy is always incompetent and lazy. But I have also seen how the government wastes money, veers from one project to another, and is indifferent to any damage done by its autocratic ways. The government, for better or worse, is the great risk-taker on new technologies. As such, it has added immeasurably to the wealth of the nation, from the creation of the technologies that led to the fracking boom and the Internet to the creative advances one now sees in airliners. Where love's labors are lost After the Pentagon, the Department of Energy (DOE) is the worst offender of the love-it-then-leave-it school of support for technology innovation. Advertisement The country is littered with the carcasses of abandoned projects, such as the Yucca Mountain nuclear spent-fuel repository, which was canceled by the Obama administration to please its political ally, Sen. Harry Reid (D-Nev.). Price tag: more than $15 billion. This cancellation has had two other damaging effects: the first is there is still no permanent place to store nuclear spent fuel, which is piling up in America; and the second is the demoralizing of talented engineers and scientists by the government's vacillation. These effects may be as huge as the price tag. Gifted people throw themselves into government projects and move their families across the country to the work sites. Then the government says, "Thanks for your work on the project, but we are canceling it. Now, shove off!" These contractor employees do not have government protections; they are subject to government caprice. In South Carolina, for example, a huge project to build a plant to blend weapons-grade plutonium into nuclear fuel for civilian reactors is 70-percent completed and hanging by a thread. That is because after spending $5 billion, the DOE wants to do something else equally expensive, according to one consultant. Advertisement Or take Gen4 Energy, a small Denver-based company that has been strung along by the DOE and now is preparing pink slips. Its plan is to build a small (25-MWe), advanced nuclear power plant for use at mining sites, military bases and remote places that need electricity, such as Alaskan villages and those in less-developed countries. These reactors would work for 10 years and then would be swapped out and replaced with a new, factory-built module. Robert Prince, Gen4 Energy's CEO, who came out of retirement to lead the advanced reactor project, says it is a unique, safe design using tested materials and concepts. The Gen4 advanced reactor design was in the running for development funding from the DOE. The DOE uses a device called a "funding opportunity announcement"(FOA), to encourage technology developers. In 2013, it issued an FOA and handed out grants of $1 million each to four advanced reactor designers, including General Electric, General Atomics, Westinghouse and Gen4 Energy. The DOE's next step was to issue another FOA. This time, the department planned to split $80 million over 10 years for just two designs, provided the grantees came up with their own $10 million. Gen4 and the others prepared detailed proposals and waited. In January, the DOE picked two rector designs: one from a consortium that includes Bill Gates and the Southern Company, and the other from technology entrepreneur Kam Ghaffarian. Neither were in the first round. Advertisement The DOE decision hit Gen4 Energy particularly hard, as it was the smallest contender and probably the one most in need of DOE help as it labored on its design, which had originated in the Los Alamos National Laboratory and was due for feasibility testing at the University of South Carolina, according to Prince. "We really thought we had a shot," he said. Not so. Love from the DOE is a sometime thing. Just ask Prince, who now must tell investors and staff that the $10 million or so they have already spent is gone and the business must pack up, technology abandoned, lives shattered, hope sunk. It's time to give Hillary Clinton another look. I've known her for a long time, and I've known Bernie even longer. Most people have forgotten that Bernie Sanders ran against me as an independent for governor in 1986. I had just completed my first term. He received 14 percent of the vote in a three-way race. His message then was the same as it is today: income inequality. The difference is that today his words are booming out to the entire country. And his words resonate. Advertisement I don't argue with his message; I argue whether that message alone qualifies Bernie to be president. I've known Hillary and worked with her. She can be serious and funny. She inspires fervent camaraderie in her staff. She is the most intelligent woman I have ever met. More importantly, she has the right temperament to lead us safely through the labyrinths of a dangerous world. She is both tough enough to be commander in chief, and compassionate enough to understand what our country needs to do to restore faith in the American Dream. I first knew Hillary at governor's conferences when she sat there as President Clinton's spouse at the side of the conference table, taking notes while working for the Children's Defense Fund. I knew her when I was deputy secretary of education, and she took on the brave health care reform fight. Sometimes I sat in the same room with Hillary and Bill. What I remember most is not the subject being discussed, but their equal respect for one another. She paid close attention to what he said, and he listened intently to what she said. I learned what a good listener she was. When I was the U.S. Ambassador to Switzerland (1996-99) I saw her negotiate with world leaders and receive respect. At the Davos World Economic Forum in 1997, (where we took time out to ski together), after she had given her speech, presidents and prime ministers were already urging her to run for president. Advertisement I was there in in 1995 at the Fourth World Women's Conference in Beijing when I heard her voice soar over the crowd of thousands of women gathered from very part of the world, under stormy skies in drenched sari's and black burkas: "Women's rights are human rights and human rights are women's rights." I can still hear the exultant cheers that made the sun come out. Year after year, Hillary has been voted the most admired woman in the world. I trust Hillary. I trust her to keep our country safe, I trust her to motivate our country to take the lead on fighting climate change, I trust her to reduce the extraordinary high level of child poverty, which she focused on in her book, "It Takes a Village: And Other Lessons Children Teach Us," published 20 years ago. The truth is, she cares for the same people as Bernie does -- those who are left out. The difference is that she understands -- through years of experience and activism -- that American revolutions have never occurred overnight. Even the LGBT revolution, unusually swift as it was, is happening 47 years after the Stonewall riots in New York City. Change happens in America, more rapidly than in other countries but we move forward step by step. And I trust her to raise American families' income by giving us equal pay for equal work, affordable childcare and paid family and medical leave. Advertisement And, most importantly, I trust her to respond competently and carefully to whatever crises our country may face in 2017 and beyond. Hillary is the only candidate who will not need on the job training. She will not make a rookie mistake, and she will stand toe to toe with anyone -- a five star general, a committee chairman, or Vladimir Putin. Why do I trust her? Because she has fought for these changes for her entire public life. Women running for high office or seeking a promotion in the private sector are often told they are not qualified. Then they work hard to get more experience, obtain another degree, and wait patiently for their qualifications to be recognized, only to discover that they are turned down because they have become "over qualified" We cannot allow that to happen to Hillary. I like what Bernie stands for, but I believe Hillary is ready to be president. US Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton speaks at a primary night rally in Columbia, South Carolina, on February 27, 2016.Clinton defeated Bernie Sanders by an overwhelming margin in the Democratic primary in South Carolina, projections showed, seizing momentum ahead of the most important day of the nomination race: next week's 'Super Tuesday' contests. / AFP / Nicholas Kamm (Photo credit should read NICHOLAS KAMM/AFP/Getty Images) Hillary Clinton refuses to make public the transcripts of her speeches to big banks, three of which were worth a total of $675,000 to Goldman Sachs. She says she would release the transcripts "if everybody does it, and that includes Republicans." After all, she complained, "Why is there one standard for me, and not for everybody else?" As the New York Times editorial board pointed out, "The only different standard here is the one Mrs. Clinton set for herself, by personally earning $11 million in 2014 and the first quarter of 2015 for 51 speeches to banks and other groups and industries." Advertisement Hillary is not running in the primaries against Republicans, who, the Times noted, "make no bones about their commitment to Wall Street deregulation and tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans." She is running against Bernie Sanders, "a decades-long critic of Wall Street excess who is hardly a hot ticket on the industry speaking circuit," according to the Times. Why do voters need to know what Hillary told the banks? Because it was Wall Street that was responsible for the 2008 recession, making life worse for most Americans. We need to know what, if anything, she promised these behemoths. I Scratch Your Back, You Scratch Mine Hillary has several super PACs, which have recently donated $25 million to her campaign, $15 million of which came from Wall Street. Advertisement Big banks and large contributors don't give their money away for nothing. They expect that their interests will be well served by those to whom they donate. Hillary recently attended an expensive fundraiser at Franklin Square Capital, a hedge fund that gives big bucks to the fracking industry. Two weeks later, Hillary's campaign announced her continuing support for the production of natural gas, which comes from fracking. Bernie opposes fracking. He said, "Just as I believe you can't take on Wall Street while taking their money, I don't believe you can take on climate change effectively while taking money from those who would profit off the destruction of the planet." Bernie's "Political Revolution" Bernie has no super PACs. His campaign has received four million individual contributions, that average $27 each. Perhaps Rupert Murdoch multiplied that amount by $100 in setting $2,700 a head as the entrance fee for Hillary's latest campaign gala? Bernie has called for a "political revolution" that "takes on the fossil fuel billionaires, accelerates our transition to clean energy, and finally puts people before the profits of polluters." He would retrain workers in the fossil fuel industries for clean energy jobs. Advertisement Bernie reminds us that the top one-tenth of 1% owns nearly as much wealth as the bottom 90%, and 99% of all new income goes to the top 1%. Unlike Hillary, he says healthcare is a right -- not a privilege -- and college and university tuition should be free. Bernie and Congressman John Conyers introduced legislation to allocate $5.5 billion to states and communities to create employment programs for African-American youth. They say, "instead of putting military style equipment into police departments . . . we [should] start investing in jobs for the young people there who desperately need them." How will we pay for all that? "If we cut military spending and corporate welfare, we would have more than enough money to meet America's needs," Bernie wrote in his 1997 book, Outsider in the House. "This nation currently spends $260 billion a year on defense, even though the Cold War is over," not counting "$30 billion spent annually on intelligence or the $20 billion in defense-related expenditures hidden away in our federal spending on energy," he added. Today, with all the wars our government is prosecuting, that figure is nearly $600 billion. With Bernie Sanders, we have a unique opportunity to reverse long-standing priorities that favor the few at the expense of the many. Let us seize the time. -- Marjorie Cohn is a professor at Thomas Jefferson School of Law and former president of the National Lawyers Guild. Her most recent book is Drones and Targeted Killing: Legal, Moral, and Geopolitical Issues. Follow her on twitter at @marjoriecohn. JB: I'm here to talk to you because New Orleans is sort of an experiment in urban education reform. You've been an advocate for school choice going back, now, decades, and I think a lot of people would expect that you would be in a place like New Orleans cheering it on, and in fact, something very interesting is happening, You're actually leading what might be described as a little bit of an uprising. Talk about, talk about what's going on. We're going to dig into that. HF: Yes, you know, I, what it is, is that over the past, probably about, 16 months, I've really spent a lot of my personal time focused on New Orleans. And it started out by me sitting down and having one-on-ones with about, I'd say, about 20, ah, African Americans from different, you know, different sectors of this community. And I really asked them two questions: What do you think about education reform in New Orleans, and what do you think about black people's role in it? The one overriding theme was, this has been done to us and not with us. ... ...The larger question is, What role has the black community played in making this happen? And the argument that I'm trying to make is that if there's a significant segment of the black community who feels, even if there are now things that are better, but they have not played a significant role in making it better, or they haven't played a significant role in the power relationships, or if you have significant numbers of people who see the effort to change education and the way that it's being done as a larger part of the disempowerment of black people in the city of New Orleans, even the good things that are happening, in my mind, they are, uh, there's a danger in the ability to sustain it if we, if we can't build on a broader base of support within the black community itself. Plus you have, as you know, the whole issue of the 7,000 employees being fired, um, um, 4300 of them, I think, were black teachers. And so, that has left, a, a, a, a deep wound in this community, that even after ten years, has not been dealt with. ... JB: Talk a little bit about the specific role that you see black teachers playing in this movement. Obviously, as you mentioned, the 7,000, the firing of the 7,000 employees remains a kind of unhealed wound, as you described it. Um, a, you clearly see black teachers playing a real leadership role, not just in their schools, but sort of across the, the education system. Talk about what that's going to look like and how you get there. [HF laughs] HF: Yeah, well, I have a huge concern about the way in which black teachers have been dealt with. What happened was that when integration took place, a lot of black teachers lost their jobs. There was the lack of valuing the, the role of black teachers. And what I see is some analogy in the ed reform movement today because of the way that we've implemented it in a number of places, black teachers have lost their jobs. Black, the, the role that black teachers and the value that black teachers bring to the table is not appreciated--particularly veteran black teachers. ... JB: You have a lot of big stuff planned in the coming months, ah, in New Orleans. You have an organization. Um, I, I heard a, a rumor that there's going to be some kind of a manifesto released. Ah, what, what should we be looking for to happen in New Orleans in the coming year? HF: I, you know, I, I I've been working with a group of people to create an organization called BENOLA ("bee-nola"): Black Education for New Orleans, Louisiana. And, you know, it's been some really great people that, that are a part of this, and, um we're at the point where we're, we're actually going to become a, they're going to become a formal organization. I'm not, I'm not involved in it other than to be supportive and helpful... JB: Because you're not from New Orleans. HF: Because I'm not from New Orleans. This is going to be led by, controlled by, you know, people from New Orleans. My father dealt illegal drugs and stolen cars. He threatened people with loaded guns. My dad was part of riots and Ku Klux Klan rallies, and he was hired by several women to kill their husbands. He is my hero. You see, my father was Commander of Special Investigations for the Indiana State Police. He dressed up as the bad guy for 27 years as an undercover detective. Every now and then, I dust off the family videos: blurry crime surveillance tapes of my dad in the line of duty. I used to watch them on repeat as a young boy. During one scene, as dad wrestles a criminal on the hood of a van near impoverished South Chicago, a child stands motionless in a distant doorway. In my childhood mind, she was the criminal's daughter, and I cheered every time her father was handcuffed. Advertisement Today, though, nearly four decades after that arrest, I worry about that little girl. I'm one of America's newest pediatricians. My clinic, an outreach of Boston Children's Hospital, sits a snowball's throw from inner-city projects. Last winter, my four-year-old patient who lives there, I'll call him Matthew, built a snowman next to the steps of his family's apartment--the same steps where his teenage brother would be shot by rival gang members one week later. Picture this: Matthew's stick-armed snowman, the symbol of a little boy's innocence, fenced by yellow police tape and blood-spattered snow. I'm a pediatrician asking Americans concerned about our country's future to consider those who will be living in it. Children exposed to violence and poverty, like Matthew and the little girl in the video, experience stress, and a growing body of medical research tells us this physically damages the structure and function of the developing brain. Physician-scientists assert these changes may exaggerate a child's impulsivity, ultimately deterring the adulthood decision-making process. In other words, children like Matthew and the little girl in the video may make decisions as adults landing them imprisoned, poor, or dead because of violence or poverty they experienced as kids. Nowadays, I can't ignore the fact that one in three of the black, newborn boys I see in clinic will end in up jail before his 18th birthday. I can't ignore the increased likelihood of drug addiction, teen pregnancy, dropping out of high school, and homelessness for any of my patients growing up poor. And when I'm listening to the heart of a young man living in a single-parent home, I can't ignore that his heart is twice as likely to stop because of suicide. Advertisement I recently met Bryan Stevenson, the inspiring lawyer and author of the New York Times bestseller, Just Mercy, who knows these statistics all too well. Mr. Stevenson represents youth, often black teenage men, on America's death row, and he, like me, believes history judges a society's character by how it treats the poor, the condemned, the incarcerated. So how we treat America's most vulnerable people matters, which means children, especially those growing up poor and near violence, should be front and center in American political discourse. The 2016 Presidential election consumes today's media, and once again, party lines divide us. We argue the role of welfare and whether black or all lives matter. We disagree about gun safety legislation and when life begins. We place blame on the size of government, too big or too small, when parents make poor decisions, when our schools lose to China's, and when prisons overflow. But perhaps we can remember--even if only during this election season--that child suffering transcends political debate. Surely the danger facing Matthew and the other 16 million children in American poverty is unworthy of the richest nation, unworthy of our ethic of pluralism, unworthy of those who fought before us to make our country the envy of the world. Dr. Michael Burry is betting on water. This year's biographical comedy-drama The Big Short mentions at the end of the film that Dr. Michael Burry, the investment advisor who predicted the housing crisis of 2007, has turned his investing eye toward water. If that sounds strange, listen to his rationale: "Water is a commodity whose demand is guaranteed. Fresh, clean water cannot be taken for granted." If the man who saw the housing market crash and ensuing financial market meltdown is focusing his investments on fresh water, might that be one more reason for us to shift our thinking about the nature, socioeconomic, political and environmental, of water? Reviewing all global natural disasters between 1963-1992, drought was not the worst killer but it affected more people than any other disaster and was third in importance for substantial economic damage. In a recent interview with USA Today, Jay Famiglietti, a water scientist at NASA's JPL, reveals a set of studies whose results suggest that we are on path for global water inequality. In Famiglietti's words, "the implications of our study for the redistribution of water availability are staggering and point to an emerging class of 'haves' and 'have nots.'" He continued, "When combined with our previous work on groundwater depletion, we are revealing a global disaster in the making, yet we are seeing very little coordinated response." Advertisement Access to fresh clean water, especially in drought-jaded California, cannot be taken for granted. The clarion call of conservation has been sounded, rightly, each time we have another driest year on record. Conservation and planning are first order priorities, but they aren't enough. In order to simply sustain the populations we have here in California (leave growth aside as another debate), innovation is in order. San Diego's big Carslbad desalination project is big news, and offers an interesting example of public and private partnership, technology innovation and planning. Cal Poly is looking at revolutionizing desal tech, proposing to use printed membranes, which move seawater a million times faster than current desalination methods that utilize porous filters, but that technology is still 10 years out. Even though the Sierras have some snow right now (February 2016), drought is a present and future part of California reality. Dry California sits right next to the largest reservoir in the world - the Pacific Ocean. Cautious optimists might hope that we will quickly find a way to optimize the technology to tap this reservoir while minimizing deleterious environmental effects, and while avoiding "industrializing" our oceans further. Researchers at the US National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration estimate 556,000 of the marine mammals live within 345 miles of the U.S. west coast, including this blue whale, pictured off a Southern California rig. Clearly, the ocean must be seen first as habitat and then as shared resource. California's coastal waters are dotted with oil rigs, many of which are nearing the end of their useful lives. There are 27 offshore oil and gas platforms operating along the California coast. Ten are nearing the end of their productive lives and the U.S. Department of Interior, Minerals Management Service estimates that their decommissioning will be completed by 2025. Advertisement A high percentage of these platforms are deepwater structures in water depths of 300-1200 feet; their sizes make removal both technically challenging and costly to the industry. Initial estimates for complete removal of all remaining platforms ranged from $1.2 to $2 billion. However, since current technologies are inadequate to remove the deepest platforms, the actual costs will likely be substantially higher, with estimates reaching $1 billion per platform. So here's an idea: what if we convert the existing offshore rigs from oil to water. Turning old oil platforms into our new water harvesting rigs using a reasonable source of power (i.e., solar, wind, wave), stacks up some key benefits: It assures that we have a way to fulfill the basic human right to fresh water. It means agriculture in California (where our ag industry is twice the size of that of any other state) can keep growing what they grow. The oil and gas industry may be motivated to help, given tremendous cost savings compared to decommissioning. The ocean floor will be less disturbed than it would be by platform removal, and, if we use the right energy source, the carbon footprint goes down. In taking a first look at the opportunity to recommission offshore oil rigs to offshore water rigs, the data looks good: we can generate a high volume of fresh clean water (at least 25 million gallons per day) for a reasonable cost ($1,578/acre foot) with significantly less greenhouse gas generation. Hillary Clinton, former Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic presidential candidate, speaks at the Old South Meeting House in Boston, Massachusetts, U.S., on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. Clinton scored a dominating victory in South Carolina's Democratic primary, helping solidify her path to the party's nomination heading into Tuesday's 11-state round of contests that represent the biggest prize of the 2016 primary campaign. Photographer: Scott Eisen/Bloomberg via Getty Images "The problem of power is how to achieve its responsible use rather than its irresponsible and indulgent use; of how to get men of power to live for the public rather than off the public." -- John F Kennedy Advertisement The abdication of our electoral process to Big Business, (e.g. Big Banks, Energy, Pharma, etc.), is undeniable. And, so it is, since the advent of NAFTA and the impending passage of the TPP, that the sovereignty of the corporate nation state is not up for argument. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that the passage of these trade agreements have their roots in campaign finance, because of the immense lobbying power large corporations have over campaign coffers. In short, campaign finance embodies the notion that those in control of the money spigot rule the roost. Coupling that with the ungodly amount of time our elected officials spend on fundraising; might leave you wondering how in the hell anybody in office can find the time to appropriately analyze and discuss real issues that affect real people? Not to refute the presumption that most folks come to Congress with conviction and good intentions. But, you can't deny that if so, end up succumbing to the corporate money machine after being softened up and burned out by the unrelenting schedule of campaign fundraising. Is that any way to run a government? Makes you wonder who's really in control. Advertisement The fallout for the regular guy on the street is the reduction to mere consumers who are continually forced into waving their constitutional rights by signing off on arbitration clauses for access to goods and services. But, what do we care? After years of constant bombardment by sound bytes and slogans, we've become too entranced by the total mind control of planned induced obsolescence and keeping up with the Joneses. I'm afraid we've evolved into nothing more than chronic enablers of a Free Market system that predates back upon us by way of a stranglehold on the political process through campaign finance. Do we really know which way is up anymore? Or, are we so enamored with brand names and manufactured images that we turn a blind eye to the backroom dealings and collusion among the power brokers? Surely it's gotta be more of a tribal thing than the art of concealment. That's one of the main reasons why these scumbags get away with what they do. Because there's enough of their cohorts out there to defend their garbage by fostering the charade. Will we ever move beyond playing games? So, allow me to retort on the quip Hillary Clinton made way back when, during the last Democratic debate and is now trying to capitalize on, "I am not a single issue candidate and I do not believe we live in a single issue country." Indeed! That remark has all the trappings of an obvious rhetorical ploy by Clinton to gain traction by implicitly portraying herself as the pragmatist "who gets things done" vs. a myopic, quixotic flash in the pan. Now, who didn't see that coming? Well... that's politics. However, as Michelle Alexander aptly noted: "When politicians start telling you that it is "unrealistic" to support candidates who want to build a movement for greater equality, fair wages, universal healthcare, and an end to corporate control of our political system, it's probably best to leave the room." So regarding this realist vs. idealist thing... Bernie's indelible efforts to address the systemic nature of money in politics has quite naturally brought the gestalt of campaign finance to the fore. Meaning that there's a big difference between harping on a single issue and getting at the root of how money has corrupted our political process and the way it has permeated the entire being of the American, nay, the global economic system. So, campaign finance is an issue of existential importance. Because, campaign finance quite literally bares on almost every aspect of modern life, from a livable wage for all, reliable and affordable single payer healthcare... for all, to having a genuine free and impartial press. And, it absolutely bares on the ability to tackle other existential issues such as climate change by the sheer nature of being able to analyze the real facts, act without bias and, do so swiftly and decisively. In the state of today's political-economic system, the money changers have become so integrated into the political process as to have supplanted the interests of regular voters. That speaks to the issue of why campaign finance has energized younger voters. Being the first generation projected to have a decrease standard of living relative to their predecessors, they're in a better position to appreciate the systemic nature of a corrupt campaign system. And now that primary season is shifting into overdrive, we must be asking ourselves where we want the conduit of power to flow, to the establishment or to the change agents? Mapping out the negative effects of our current campaign finance system would be enough to fill quite a number of thick volumes. But, for the sake of brevity, we might be able to use a simple conceptualized framework to demonstrate how its effects reverberate throughout all the major sectors of our economy. So, the figure below (A "Rigged Economy": How Capitalism Shapes the Political Landscape and the Architecture of Every Sector of Society) illustrates the overall mechanics of the process. The above diagram illustrates how our Campaign Finance sustains itself and, metastasizes throughout the fabric of our political-economic system. In summary: Campaign Finance by large corporate donors coaxes political patronage by fueling political campaigns because, those elected officials who are the beneficiaries, kick back contracts, subsidies and regulatory policies (deregulation) favorable to their donors. And, as indicated, this also translates into corporate heads becoming political appointees to strategic positions within government. Typical reciprocity: "You scratch my back, I'll scratch yours" kinda thing. First grader stuff, yeah? Advertisement That's the basic interplay between "Capitalism" and "Politics" and, it works like a classic positive feedback loop. That is, it's a continuous self sustaining cycle or driving wheel between Big Corp. and the Political Establishment. And, it's this process that starts a chain reaction that evolves as it cascades throughout the fabric of society culminating into the "Privatization & Consolidation" of all major sectors which, quite naturally, reflects the "Ultimate Goal of Capitalism" ("Profit & Growth"). What's left? Huge Hegemonic Multinational Corporate Nation States. The agenda of Big Corp. infiltrates the fabric of our society by two means: 1) Directly via investment into a particular sector and; 2) Indirectly via government funding influenced by large strategic donations by corporations to select Congressional Committee members, such as a committee chair (for example: Lamar Smith, House Science Committee Chairman). Now, wouldn't you think that a politician who gets substantial campaign donations from a particular group or corporation would, some how, be influenced by those donations? Maybe conflicted, as in conflict of interest? Anyway, let's imagine that, in fact, does take place. Then, what this all boils down to is a corporate buyout of our political and economic system. What you're left with are a few large multinational corporations with complete control of their sector of influence in a global economy. They are sovereign in their own right and have actually gained the upper hand over traditional nation states in multinational trade pacts. Take Trans-Canada's law suit against the US government over rejection of the Key Stone Pipeline filed under the auspices of NAFTA as a prime example. And, as far as I know, multinational corporations don't provide for fundamental human rights like freedom of speech, privacy, due process, etc. Not to mention the aforementioned fact that corporate nation states can challenge the sovereignty of traditional nation states. An ironic twist of fate. Orwell's "Big Brother" isn't born out of Big Government but, rather is the legacy of deregulation... the after-affects of Reaganomics, whom I might point out was at the apex of his popularity in 1984. But, Wait! Wasn't the Clinton era also known for deregulation and merger mania... of banks, media? So, the above figure is an illustration of the fundamental mechanics of Steady State Capitalism. However, the term "Steady State Capitalism" is an oxymoron. Because, Capitalism by the very nature of its central dogma of eternal expansion, is inherently unsustainable. Why? Simple. The Earth is a closed system and thus is subject to its own limitations. And, in the context of biology, the sustainability of higher life forms, is limited by the Carbon Cycle. Remember Bill Clinton's famous "It's the Economy Stupid" from the mid 90's? No kohai. I'm sorry. It's the Carbon Cycle Stupid! That is, there's a limit to how big you gonna git because, in the final analysis, it's the biosphere that places the limits on sustainability. Advertisement What do I mean? Well... we humans have actually passed, the biological limits of sustainability for all carbon based life forms on planet earth. And, the engine or impulse driving us over the cliff of imminent demise starts at the level of money in politics. And, Campaign Finance is the epitome of money in politics. Hence the conundrum of the gestalt; can you explicitly determine its undisputable origin? Or is it a matter of rhetoric? Chicken or the egg? Regardless of where you choose to begin, the integrated nature of campaign finance and of climate change are similar with regard to exemplifying amalgams who's cascading aftereffects behave exponentially and, so share a common thread of existential importance. Enough said? I am of the common perception that of late the right side of the aisle has become so extreme in their views within the last decade, as to have become detached from reality. And the gridlock they have imbued into the political process epitomizes how money in politics has corrupted and paralyzed the legislature. In all fairness, historical examples of obstructionism may be drawn from both parties. But, Antonin Scalia's body, for example, was barely cold before there were pledges by Mitch McConnel et. al. to block any nominee put forth by the Obama administration. Long gone are the days when Congress acted as a check to Presidential power. As the Congress has proven time and again; their current mo. is now COTUS Interuptus by day and Political Foreplay to corporate sugar daddies by night. And, what's the reasoning behind this "corporations are people" thing again? If that's not the quintessential example of how lawyers and judges pervert the natural order by trying to affix legalese to natural phenomena, I don't know what is. Need I say more? Likewise, it seems painfully obvious that the trajectory of the rhetoric from the presidential candidates on the Republican side of the aisle hasn't appropriately addressed any of the fundamental issues dealing with the existential nature of how we shall move forward as a nation and as a member of the global community into the 21st century in a way that sustains and advances the existence of humans on a planet worth living on. Because, like it or not we are going to have to make tough decisions concerning how to best make rapid and sweeping technological transitions of our energy sector along with revamping our financial sector if we are to have any hope of avoiding collapse. And, this continual fetish with tribal conflicts and terrorist organizations addressed as prudent foreign policy is completely blind to what belies the vast majority of human conflict, which is the global threat of diminishing resources leading to a diminished quality of life. As for the Democratic side of the aisle, what immediately stands out to me is how the "Clinton Machine" exemplifies the very definition of machine politics. In other words, Hillary's playing a rigged game. For example, even though Bernie Sanders blew her away in New Hampshire, he only got half the delegates. Want more? Here's a reminder of the backroom decisions by the DNC to give her a decisive edge. Had enough or, shall we flip for it? Both of these guys have records reaching back decades. Ask yourself who's been unwavering, more consistent? Being consistent is one of Bernie Sander's trademarks. He's always described himself as a democratic socialist; which has never been cool, especially during the Reagan years. So, he's his own man. You gotta like that. As for Hillary Clinton, which Hillary? How many of you out there feel that she will say or do anything to become president? And, why? You can't get inside someone's head. That's for sure. But, if her record is any indicator, the empowerment of Hillary Clinton to the Presidency may leave us no better off than with Trump. There's certainly no doubt that she's the establishment candidate. The stack of superdelegates in her corner is proof of that. I might be able to work through her establishment status. But, when you add this superdelegates thing with the shenanigans within the DNC; it becomes too much. Superdelegates... One person / One Vote? Really? You know... if the higher ups in both parties were a little more concerned with making sure the electorate was better educated, they would have made access to a higher education for all a priority by more funding, not less. Instead they were more concerned with rigging the political system to ensure they stay in power. So much for the establishment. And finally, the legacy from which Hillary is born out of has more than its share of scandals, double speak, and out right lies. But, it's the substance of the Clinton Legacy which is the main consideration here, right? So, in the end, I'm with Bernie. He is the one who has framed the political dialogue and has remained steadfast in his conviction regardless of whether it's trendy or not. Advertisement The story of the Democratic primaries is Hillary Clinton's leftward shift. (It remains unclear whether the story's a fiction.) Strangely, a key position she's not yet "evolved" on is held by more Republicans than Democrats: She's pro-death penalty. Yes, Hillary's said that execution should be reserved for "particularly heinous" crimes, that there should be adequate safeguards against wrongful convictions. But as a former defense attorney, Hillary knows better. She knows there's no consistent way to reserve executions for just one sort of "heinous" crime. She knows, for sure, that no matter how many safeguards there are, innocents will die. As with drone strikes, so with state-sanctioned homicide: There's always collateral damage. Advertisement The collateral damage isn't pretty; and given her red herring stump speech, wherein she maintains that she focuses on progressive issues like racism and crime while Sanders is a one-issue candidate, disregarding it reeks of hypocrisy. Hillary says she's fighting for racial justice. But African-American men convicted on dubious evidence are executed at a sickeningly disproportionate rate. Hillary says she's fighting for economic justice. But the poor are treated as fodder in a criminal justice system that sometimes treats indigent lives as products to be processed, as hens to the slaughterhouse, instead of human beings. Hillary says she's fighting for a justice state rather than a police state. But the dead are unable to hold police who may have mishandled evidence or coerced confessions accountable. Advertisement Secretary Clinton: Not just Bernie Sanders, but a majority of Democrats, a fast-growing part of our party, is anti-death. USA, New Jersey, Jersey City, Female doctor in hospital hallway This was a pretty quiet week in the world of guns. The Republican debate came and went without any born-again pledges of absolute fealty to the 2nd Amendment, only 67 people were shot dead since the middle of the week, which is below the normal rate, and the headline article on the NRA-ILA website was just a kvetch about Hillary taking away all the guns. So I figured I'd have to dig pretty deep to come up with something to say in the column I write every Monday for The Huffington Post, until lo and behold the looniest pro-gun group, a.k.a., my friends at Doctors for Responsible Gun Ownership, let fly with yet another attempt to challenge the assumption that physicians align what they say with at least some regard for reality, if not for facts. Because the truth is that we really wouldn't feel pleased about visiting the doctor if we felt that what he told us about our health was something made up out of thin air. So when we hop on the scale or let the nurse wrap our arm in a blood-pressure cuff, the whole point of these tests and others is to give our physicians an opportunity to evaluate our medical condition based on what he sees and what he knows. Advertisement But when it comes to their views on guns and gun violence, the physicians who contribute commentaries to the DRGO website are about as far removed from any reality as the veritable man in the moon. The latest flight into fancy is a column written by a family physician in Iowa, Sean Brodale, who is of the opinion that hospitals are not only becoming very dangerous places, but that the remedy is -- you guessed it! -- allowing the medical staff to be armed. In fact, this physician believes that since health care professionals are entrusted with caring for patients every day, why shouldn't doctors be trusted to "defend our patients' lives with a firearm if a violent situation requires it?" In all of the explanations and justifications for CCW put forth by Gun Nation, this statement comparing medical caregiving with armed self-defense has to rank as maybe the single dumbest thing I have ever heard. In order to administer medical care to his patients, the author of this riveting commentary first graduated college with a specialty in pre-med, he then did four years of medical school, followed by at least three years of internship and residency and perhaps then a fellowship year or two. In other words, before he ever sat down to discuss anything with a patient, he had been training for upwards of a dozen years. And to maintain his medical license, he needs to spend a substantial amount of time in accredited, continuing education classes, as well as being re-tested on his medical boards. Know what the training requirements are for CCW in the Hawkeye State? Taking a couple of hours to complete the usual NRA course. No article promoting the value of armed self-defense would be complete without some attempt to prove that the world is a very dangerous place. And in this instance, the author gets his evidence from a report on hospital security which shows a whopping 40 percent increase in hospital violent crime between 2012 and 2014. But if the DRGO author had bothered to read beyond Page 3, he would have discovered that this growth consisted entirely of increases in vandalism and cars being stolen out of hospital parking lots; every category of person-to-person violent crime -- assault, disorderly conduct, burglary, theft -- went down. Advertisement When Trump announced his presidential campaign last June, many who would otherwise be very worried took solace in the improbability of its success: a crowded field of contenders, no political experience, and a reputation as a reality star seemed to prohibit forward movement for the tycoon. Now that's changed. The Trump candidacy is real, here, and powerful. Blogs, editorials, and pundit panels are abuzz with accounts of how such a grotesque figure has ascended to the top of the Republican primary filed. Amid the outcry, it's easy to forget that Donald Trump wants to be the President of the United States. This may be the oddest aspect of the extraordinary Trump candidacy, for next to none among his class share the ambition. They prefer instead to work behind the scenes, where influence can be effective without being easily scrutinized. In the age of Citizens United and the one percent, behind the scenes is exactly where private power wants to be. Advertisement Trump is different. Why does the billionaire want to be not just center stage on reality TV, but President of the United States, with all that entails? Trump says he wants to restore America to its former glory. "We need somebody that literally will take this country and make it great again," he told supporters upon announcing his candidacy last summer. We've heard the phrase now ad nauseam, and it's been surprisingly effective. But do we really believe that Trump wants to make America great (again)? Does he have any idea what that entails? His campaign has made that doubtful, to say the least. At his campaign announcement, Trump said something else: "I don't need anybody's money. I'm using my own money. . . . I'm really rich." Indeed, this was not only the most genuine statement he made, but perhaps the most revealing. Trump's money tells us a lot about his wish to be President. No, this is not a story of "corporate greed" or "crony capitalism." This is not even a story of plutocracy. No "Wall Street power" paradigm fits. This is not the Koch brothers. This is different. Advertisement This is about the overt extension of private ambition into the public realm. The super-rich and corporations represent the inordinate presence of private power in American political culture. The unwarranted if largely unseen influence of such forces is a pernicious threat to the republic. Behind-the-scenes private power has played a major role in the national politics of the Republican Party (and a significant one in the Democratic Party). But ever since Reagan left office, many leading Republicans have wished for a presidential candidate that could cash in on Reaganesque celebrity power too. For Reagan was a powerful televisual spokesman for a conservative agenda, as well as its chief executive. Donald Trump is every bit the celebrity Reagan was, but while he clearly represents the sentiments of a portion of the electorate he can hardly be called a "spokesman" for any agenda. For nothing exists in his political world outside of himself. Fuse self-centered private power with self-centered celebrity power and you get to the nature of Donald Trump's ambition. What does this mean for the American republic? Public life is fertile soil for ambition, and always has been. For this reason republicanism, the cluster of political principles and ideals that helped form the basis of the U.S. Constitution--and from which the Republican party gets its name--seeks to put limits on the effects of ambition in politics. The Renaissance republicans who laid the intellectual ground for the American republic personified Ambition as the towering, grasping figure--one that could be easily contrasted with the figure of Justice. Whereas Justice typically lacked a crown, Ambition wore many crowns, an indication of an unquenchable thirst for power. Whereas Justice held in her hand the famous scales of justice, Ambition's hands were busy propping up the symbols of her power and grasping for more. And whereas Justice was blind for the sake of impartiality and equity, Ambition's blindness was an indication of a total disregard for others, a blindness to the common or "general good," as it was called. Advertisement Not surprisingly, Renaissance republicans believed ambition had to be checked, sometimes ruthlessly so. Shakespeare's Julius Caesar offers just such a tale of the ruthless cutting off of ambition from the republic. In the play, Julius Caesar's private ambition gets the best of him. He wants to not only be famous, but to be king. Worried about the fate of the republic, Caesar's friend, Marcus Brutus, joins with other conspirators to slay Caesar. After the murder, Brutus gives a speech to the people of Rome to justify the act: "There is tears for his love, joy for his fortune, honor for his valor, and death for his ambition." Brutus believed you had to slay ambition to save the republic. We need not be so severe about ambition today. In fact, limited political ambition is a good thing, a sign of the relative health of a republic. It means that there are rewards for public life. All presidents and presidential candidates are ambitious--they want the glory, and sometimes the riches, of public life. It's part of the general political personality of a presidential candidate. But as a rule if they do not keep their ambition in check, they at least hide it from public view. Trump is different. He makes no effort to keep his ambition at bay. He all but flaunts it. Indeed, he is a modern-day version of the caricature of Ambition drawn in Renaissance books. He's clearly looking for another crown, busy propping up his triumphs, and blind to citizenly virtues and anything like the common good. He's out to wreck the republic under the pretense of making America great again. But more significantly, Trump's ambition is different because it is not born of republican soil at all. Trump is not someone seeking the rewards of public life, other than further celebrity. Nor is he akin to the Koch brothers, who use their wealth to influence public policy while they hide behind the curtains. Rather, Trump's story is the story of the extension of an aggressive capitalist mentality and a celebrity complex on to the center stage of the public arena. Trump is "really rich." But the story of his richness has been part and parcel of his celebrity. Think Henry Ford or Howard Hughes, not David Koch or Sheldon Adelson. But Henry Ford and Howard Hughes never ran for President (though some people wanted Ford to). In the last thirty years, five men have ridden to the White House on one of two powerful waves in American political culture; celebrity appeal (Reagan, Clinton, and Obama) or strong connections to private wealth (the Bushes). Trump has built his private empire around both, and his presidential campaign is but the extension of this empire into the very heart of the republic. The Republican Party is structurally incapable, it seems, of checking Trump's ambition. It will be up to the broader American electorate to do so. If we don't, Trump is sure to destroy the republic. Advertisement By Dr. Nehginpao Kipgen Members of the United Nationalities Federal Council (UNFC), a nine-member ethnic armed alliance that did not sign a Nationwide Ceasefire Agreement (NCA) with the military-backed Thein Sein government in October last year, held a meeting in Chiang Mai from February 18 to 21, 2016. The meeting was significant specifically for two reasons. First, the meeting happened in the wake of imminent Myanmar army's plan to launch military offensives against the Myanmar National Democratic Alliance Army (MNDAA), a UNFC member. Second, the term of USDP government ends in March and President Thein Sein wants to leave a successful legacy by ending the decades-old armed conflicts in the country. At the end of the four-day meeting, the UNFC accused the Thein Sein-led Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) government of using the NCA as a military and political weapon against the group by creating racial hatred and a divide and rule policy. The military alliance accused the government of creating clashes between the Restoration Council of Shan State/Shan State Army-South (RCSS/SSA-S) and the Palaung State Liberation Front/ T'ang National Liberation Army (PSLF/TNLA). Armed clash had also erupted between the Myanmar army and the RCSS/SSA-S. The recent armed clashes have resulted in casualties and the internal displacement of several thousand civilians. The international community, including the US government and the European Union, has expressed concerns that escalation of tensions could jeopardize the democratization process. If the Myanmar military launches offensive attacks against the MNDAA, there is a possibility that the other members of UNFC, particularly the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), would come to the aide of the MNDAA, which the KIA leadership had previously hinted. If the prevailing tension does not subside, the weak link of communication between the government peace negotiation team and the ethnic armed groups could further be deteriorated. It could also reduce the likelihood of UNFC members joining the peace process. Since the RCSS/SSA-S is a signatory to the NCA and the TNLA is a non-signatory, the escalation of tension between the two armed groups could also create trust deficit among ethnic minorities, which could in turn have ramifications on the ongoing peace talk. Amidst the tensions, the government chief negotiator, Aung Min, who met the UNFC leaders in Chiang Mai said, "We have not closed the door to non-signatories. We are still trying." The government's unsuccessful strategy has been to sign ceasefire agreement with the ethnic armed groups individually, which the UNFC has reiterated that it will maintain its "all-inclusive" policy. The biggest apprehension of the UNFC leadership is that the Myanmar government would use the NCA as a pretext to launch military attacks against the groups the government is unwilling to sign a ceasefire with, which includes the MNDAA and the TNLA. If the Myanmar army launches attacks on the MNDAA, which there is an imminent sign, the accusation of the UNFC leadership would have been justified, and more importantly, it could destabilize the entire peace process. As a researcher and a keen observer on Myanmar's political developments, especially on issues pertaining to the country's ethnic minorities, I believe that signing the NCA with UNFC, as a collective bloc, would be a positive direction for the country. It would have been a totally different scenario had members of the UNFC were rejecting the peace process. In fact, groups such as the MNDAA and TNLA, which the Thein Sein government has reluctant to include in the NCA, have expressed their desire to sign the ceasefire agreement and be part of the peace process. It is very likely that the National League for Democracy, which will officially assume power from April, will review the peace process to ensure that all armed groups participate. The party has announced that the peace process will be one of its priorities, As President Thein Sein continues to endeavor to bring an end to the decades-old armed conflicts before leaving office, it could be one of his most successful legacies to accept the inclusive policy of the UNFC. Accepting an all-inclusive policy should not be taken as weakness on the part of the government, rather a step forward to bringing peace and stability in the country. The international community must do its part to ensure that the peace process is successful. Nehginpao Kipgen, PhD, is Assistant Professor and Director of Centre for Southeast Asian Studies at the School of International Affairs, O.P. Jindal Global University. He is the author of three books on Myanmar, including the forthcoming "Myanmar: A Political History" available from Oxford University Press. Though I spent most of my high school and college years writing for newspapers, I never wanted to be a journalist after graduation. I do, however, like reading journalists' memoirs, which is how I landed on The Taliban Shuffle. This high-octane memoir has been made into a film starring Tina Fey, Margot Robbie, and Billy Bob Thornton called Whiskey Tango Foxtrot and will be in theaters March 4. The Taliban Shuffle covers the nearly five-year period that author Kim Barker worked as a reporter in Afghanistan and Pakistan for the Chicago Tribune. The book follows her as she dodges bombs, cultivates sources, and finds her place in a community of expats, government officials, and other journalists clamoring for the next big story. What sets this apart from other war stories you may have read? Well, it's hilarious. Plenty of war and combat memoirs are somber, tragic, sometimes even terrifying. Though Barker doesn't sugarcoat when she recounts serious events, she isn't afraid to address the absurdity of being an American woman in a different culture, or of living a reporter's life, which is constantly changing and often unexpected. Advertisement One of my favorite moments is only a dozen pages in, when Barker approaches the top foreign editor at the Tribune in 2001 after learning that the higher-ups are looking to send more female reporters to the Middle East. She had seldom been abroad, only spoke English, and didn't know much about Islam, but she wanted adventure and an escape from her day-to-day life. "I have no kids and no husband, so I'm expendable," she says. The editor nods, and hands her an envelope with her name on it; the paper has already checked out who is single and likely to report overseas. "We know who you are," he responds. "Get ready to go to Pakistan." Less than six months later, she's on a plane, about to embark on the ride of her life. By day, she covers her head with a scarf and reports on bombings, militants, elections, and is even embedded with the United States military as they're on patrol--by night, she and her fellow correspondents blow off steam with cheap alcohol and early 2000s jams. There is a dark comedy in these opposite experiences, and this elevates the book from a story of war to a story of life and stepping outside of your comfort zone. Which brings me to another of Barker's strengths: while some well-known and high-ranking figures make cameos, she is not a name-dropper. This book isn't about the headliners, the network anchors, or the cable TV packages. It's about good old-fashioned reporting, the kind that many fear is disappearing in today's media landscape. There's no Twitter, no photo ops, viral videos, or sudden rises to fame. Barker starts from the bottom, and works hard to show the realities of reporting overseas, and the danger that people put themselves in so that we don't have to. Advertisement In my armchair travels, I've read a lot of journalists' tales: this one might just be my favorite. Barker's journey is enough to make you look at things differently, read the news a little more closely, and maybe even push you try something new. Or if you're like me, you can just relish the contact high. Julianna Haubner works in the Editorial Department at Simon & Schuster. You can follow her on Twitter @jhaubner2. Co-authored by Amanda Garza, an Art History and Archaeology student at Boston University and also a closet political junkie and sci-fi nerd. A volunteer for the Boston for Bernie campaign makes phone calls to prospective voters. PHOTO BY OLIVIA DENG On a Wednesday evening, the Boston for Bernie campaign office in Charlestown, Massachusetts, was abuzz with volunteers calling residents to make a final push before Super Tuesday on March 1, a day in which 12 states hold primaries. When Bernie Sanders first launched his campaign in May 2015, he polled at 15 percent according to the Quinnipiac University National Poll. Fast forward nine months - Sanders won the New Hampshire primary. Advertisement Sanders may be questioned about the feasibility of his plans, but that's not the point for many Sanders supporters - his idealism is a draw. "The lofty goals that are set by the senator, attainable, but still lofty, definitely give the young people something to look forward to," said Joe Caiazzo, communications and political director at Bernie 2016. A political outsider, Sanders' success is indicative of a brewing rebellion against the political establishment. Brian Garvey, a volunteer for the Sanders campaign, said that Sanders' status as a political outsider can bring positive change to the White House. "I think the money and influence is the biggest issue that's holding back our government right now," Garvey said. "I think he's [Sanders] definitely not going to pick someone who used to work at a big bank to be the [Secretary of the Treasury]. I think he's not very interested in the money so that's going to allow him to make clear decisions that aren't biased." For Cristian Morales, president of Boston University Students for Bernie and senior in the BU College of Engineering, Sanders' viewpoints on topics such as LGBTQ rights and getting money out of politics resonated with him. Advertisement "Having a rigged system is a thing that needs to be addressed first because we can't solve problems of systemic racism without addressing it," Morales said, pointing to private prisons and fossil fuel companies as examples of corporations backed by special interest. Morales said he initially found out about Sanders through Facebook and was motivated to take further action after discovering that his political typology matched with Sanders'. "I took an online quiz, [I think it was] iSideWith.com and it was a 90 percent [match with] Bernie Sanders," Morales said. "I saw that he's a candidate who's almost once-in-a-lifetime...I realize this election is really important and I have to do something more than [saying] 'well wishes his way.'" BU Students for Bernie has canvassed at the University of New Hampshire the weekend before the New Hampshire primary and in Boston, in areas close to BU and Northeastern University. "A group of around 10 BU students got 200 people wanting to vote and answered people's questions," Morales said about canvassing at UNH. "There's been a lot of people who've been helped by what we are doing." Advertisement With 75 to 80 college chapters and 351 sub-campaigns dedicated to electing Sanders in Massachusetts, the statewide campaign emphasizes a hyperlocal strategy, Caiazzo said. "The thing about this campaign that's really cool is that this is a very hyperlocal race. Instead of doing a statewide race, we're doing 351 small campaigns," Caiazzo said. "There are 351 towns and cities in the Commonwealth. Basically the way we're going and working these is we're going in and empowering our volunteers to take ownership over their own hometown for the campaign." Benchmarks from FiveThirtyEight suggest that Sanders must win Vermont, Minnesota, Colorado, Massachusetts, Oklahoma and Tennessee to remain a serious contender for the Democratic nomination. Aside from Vermont and Massachusetts where a Sanders victory is virtually assured in the former and highly likely in the latter, the majority of the Super Tuesday states represent weak points for Sanders. A Sanders victory in either Tennessee or Oklahoma is highly unlikely, but if he manages to close the gap into the single digits in one or both states, he may be able to maintain momentum. Polling data from Minnesota and Colorado is spotty at best, with no clear frontrunner currently visible. A true long-shot would be for Sanders to close the gap in Texas, where Hillary Clinton is holding steady with a double-digit lead. If all the hype about Sanders gaining ground among Latinos holds true, a narrow margin of victory for Clinton in the Lone Star State (where the electorate was 32 percent Latino in 2008) may be Super Tuesday's biggest surprise. Regardless, Clinton's lead among superdelegates adds a sense of unprecedented urgency to the actions of the Sanders campaign. Composed of "unpledged party leaders and elected official delegates" super delegates are considered one of the best predictors of who will win the nomination. After the Nevada caucus Sanders only holds a modest 70 delegates compared to Clinton's 502. As of February 23, a staggering 451 of Clinton's delegates are superdelegates while Sanders only has 19. Without the influence of superdelegates, Clinton and Sanders would have been tied 51-51 in election contests post-Nevada. After her win in South Carolina Saturday night, her lead has only grown. Despite grassroots movements for change in the Democratic party, the establishment is still holding strong. Now that many in the media are already claiming that the Sanders campaign is singing its swan song after defeat in Nevada, a loss in Massachusetts would be especially devastating. Super Tuesday is the final exam for many of the supporters volunteering for the Boston for Bernie campaign. Traditional campaigning methods such as canvassing and phone banking meet political technology innovation to create an information-rich environment for voters. "I think that we are all low-information voters before the internet and social media," said Hilary Robinson, a volunteer for the Sanders campaign. "Corporate media has interests that reflect the interests of Wall Street and most of these anchors on television are the multimillionaires who will be taxed at a slightly higher rate under Bernie's plan for healthcare for all. So to be able to receive media that doesn't come through these channels, that's a shift." Taylor Peck, co-founder of popular political typology quiz iSideWith.com, said that open data increases the accuracy of predictions. "We've had Trump since last June as far as a leading candidate goes. A lot of people thought Trump was behind," Peck said. "I think the wakeup call is that these polls are right, these online polls capture the sentiment of the American people - it's not people in D.C. making guesses about who's going to win...It's going to bring the data from all the voters back to make it more aware of all the candidates and everything." iSideWith.com boasts over 30 million quiz-takers, Peck said. The appeal in taking quizzes to better identify political ideologies lies in the personalization of results and social sharing aspects. "Voters are not going to sit through a 30-second infomercial about how tough [the candidate is]," Peck said. "Voters want to know the real deal and they want to know where politicians stand." For Bil Lewis, a volunteer for the Sanders campaign, sincerity is key. Advertisement "Hillary is in there because she wants to become president. That's perfectly reasonable," Lewis said. "Bernie is in there because he wants to make sure that we have a democratic union where minimum wage is at least $15 an hour and students graduate with no debt." Growing up in a biracial family, Robinson said that she is sensitive to topics regarding race. "Hillary Clinton has talked about the firewall in Southern states, which I consider to be extremely offensive because it as though there's this monolithic demographic category called black people and we can make a bunch of assumptions about what they want and who they'll agree with," Robinson said. Significantly, the Nevada caucus was the first contest of the 2016 election that was not in a majority white state. Hispanic and African American voters made up a staggering one-third of the voters in the Nevada Democratic caucus, as opposed to the 3 percent and 8 percent they made up in New Hampshire and Iowa. Entrance polls suggest that Clinton won the support of 76 percent of black voters in Nevada and similar proportion in her victory in South Carolina. However, given the strong foothold that Clinton has with minority voters and the long-standing broad base of support she enjoys among union workers there is an argument to be made that her margin of victory in Nevada should have been larger. Should Sanders continue to gain support among Latinos and if his campaign's ground game galvanizes a large voter turnout on Super Tuesday he may well do better than most pollsters are predicting. "All of us are coming together and pulling our respective people power and sort of becoming a small army of Bernie Sanders volunteers," Morales said. "We know exactly what our mission is." As we approach Election Day, there is one question on everyone's mind: Who will win the presidential race? However, there's a more important question not being considered nearly as much: Who do WE want to win the presidential race? According to recent data from the U.S. Census, voter turnout in the United States is currently amongst the lowest in the entire developed world. In the last presidential election, only 53 percent of Americans voted. There are over 240 million voting-aged Americans, yet over nearly 100 million consistently choose not to vote. This leads to the million-dollar question: Why? When asked after the last presidential election why they chose not to vote, 59 percent of non-voting Americans believed that there is no point in voting because "nothing ever gets done," 54 percent justified not voting because they believe the U.S. Government is "so corrupt," and 37 percent believe that voting "doesn't make much difference my life." Advertisement This is a huge problem. We are talking about nearly half of our eligible voting population consistently choosing not to vote, even though they literally have the ability to determine who will run our nation. It's time we change that. I sincerely believe every single voting-aged American should vote and by the end of this article, you will too. "How the heck does the presidential election work?" For the longest time, I had no idea how the presidential election works. Recent research suggests that I'm not alone. Simply explained, there are 50 states in the United States. Each state is divided up into congressional districts that are based on population. The more populated the state, the more districts it has. For example, California, which has a population of 38.8 million people, has 53 districts while Kansas, which has a population of 2.9 million people, has only 4 districts. So, the bigger the population of a state, the more districts that state has. The more districts a state has, the more influence that state has in the election. This influence is represented by the state's electors, more formally known as the Electoral College. The number of electors a state has is determined by its number of districts plus the two U.S. senators of that state. So California has 55 electors (53 districts plus 2 senators) while Kansas has 6 electors (4 districts plus 2 senators). When a candidate wins the voting in a state, they win that state's electors, which is why "big" more populated states are so important to presidential candidates. If you add up the electors in all of the states and the District of Columbia, you get 538 electors. In order to win the presidency, a candidate must win 270 electors. And this all happens with your vote. "My vote won't count." The biggest reason why Americans choose not to vote comes down to simply feeling powerless. However, the fact of the matter is this: your vote matters a lot. Yes, it's true that the Electoral College elects the president, but never forget that it is us, the American people, that decide who the Electoral College MUST support. For example, if you live in the State of California and the majority of the people in your state choose to vote for Senator Bernie Sanders, then he will win your state's 55 electoral votes. That's over 20 percent of the electoral votes he needs to win the presidency. It's as simple as that. And it all started with your vote. Advertisement "What's the point of voting when I already know my state will swing Republican/Democratic?" The second biggest reason why Americans choose not to vote comes down to the belief that their state will inevitably support a specific party. If I am a Democrat, why should I bother to vote when I know my state of Texas will definitely support a Republican? In the 40 non-swing states, this is a very common question. However, you must understand this: A state only swings to one party, because the majority of people WHO VOTED support that specific party. This "inevitableness" can definitely be countered by your vote. For example, in states that historically swing conservative, like Texas, Oklahoma, Arkansas, Alaska, Arizona, and West Virginia, less than 50% of the voting population voted in the past presidential election. This means that the over 50% that chose not to vote could have definitely overpowered the conservative vote and awarded that state's electoral votes to the opposite party. That's 70 electoral votes right there, over 25% of the votes needed by a candidate to win the presidency. And it's all done with your vote. "Why should I vote? It's not like it will affect me." One of the biggest reasons Americans choose not to vote is because they have a sense of apathy towards politics or voting. The fact of the matter is this: Whether or not you like it, every single aspect of your life is affected by politics and every single one of those politicians were put in power through a popular vote. Even if you think that the government is too corrupt, how does abstaining from voting and doing nothing help change the status quo? You don't like your politicians? No problem, you can use your vote in the next election to make sure those politicians don't win re-election. You don't like how your politicians never get anything done? No problem, you can use your vote in the next election to elect politicians who will get things done. Advertisement "As a minority, my vote doesn't matter." Candidates know who votes ("their voters"), and they shape their policies based on voter turnout demographics. Before you ask why candidates like Donald Trump can get away with making hateful statements and policies against Hispanics, tell me why less than half of eligible Hispanics vote. Before you ask why politicians seem to not care much about #BlackLivesMatter, tell me why non-whites make up only 26% of all voters. Never let the term "minority" make you think the vote of your ethnic group is insignificant. It is rather, your most powerful political tool. For example, take a look at Muslim voters. Muslim Americans make up less than one percent of the U.S. population, but experts say they could play a very significant role in presidential elections due to their concentration in key states like Florida where Bush won by just 537 votes in 2000. The minority vote is incredibly powerful, never doubt that for a second. Find the candidate you believe best supports the interests of your demographic and encourage all those in your communities to support them. You'd be amazed by the difference this will make. Adds war photo, editors note highlighting key issues, photos, tags EDITOR'S NOTE: A century ago this year Ireland was torn apart by the beginning of a decades-long civil war. This is the story of a young woman who found peace and family in a land far way, written by a grandson who became a prominent foreign correspondent. By PATRICK McDOWELL Like countless other Irish-Americans, my family has its own personal version of the immigrant story. Ours doesn't involve the Potato Famine or the East Coast centers of all things Gaelic in New York and Boston. The central character is my grandmother, Mary "May'" McDowell, who came as a bride to the hilly dairy country of Northern California in the 1930s and became a special kind of grande dame until she "passed away," as she'd have said, on August 9, 2000. Advertisement She was born Mary Birch on October 3, 1906, in the boggy farmlands around Mountnorris in County Armagh. Her parents died when she was young -- "It was drink,'' she'd say of her father -- and she and an older sister, Bessie, and younger brother, Willie, were taken in by a mean-tempered aunt. They lived in rural poverty, and as she would tell it later, "You'd chase the crows to catch the crumbs they'd drop.'' The entire island of Ireland was then part of the United Kingdom, but before she was 10-years-old the Easter Rising had erupted to the south in Dublin. Ireland spent the next several years in a bloody civil war. She recalled killers coming in the night to murder her neighbors. She simply stopped leaving their farm to go to school because it was too dangerous. Forty children died during the Easter Rising of 1916 Armagh then, as it was in the later Troubles in the 1970s and 1980s, was one of the places where the Protestant-majority unionists clashed most bloodily with the largely Roman Catholic nationalists. IRA men, B-special paramilitaries and British troops roamed the area. In 1921, the border was drawn between the independent south and British-ruled north. County Armagh was in the north, on the border, and became a front line; later generations called it Bandit Country. Heightened watchfulness and anxiety were needed to survive. Advertisement She was teaching Sunday school at the Presbyterian church and was probably on her way to spinsterhood in her late 20s when my grandfather met her around 1935. James A. McDowell was returning to the Old Country looking for a bride. He'd been born in 1899 in Point Reyes, California, son of an immigrant dairyman. The Northern Irish found something similar to home in the rocky shores, rolling hills and constant fog of the Northern California coast. Some of their descendants remain among the dairy ranches scattered in Sonoma and Marin counties west of Petaluma. It was a hard and remote life, though. Husband James McDowell in 1935 wedding photo The 1906 earthquake was a last straw for my great-grandfather -- the family story is that a fissure swallowed a cow and only the tail was left sticking out above ground. He moved James and his younger brother John back to Ireland for a better education, but their return to America was thwarted by World War I and the civil war. They finally re-established themselves in the area in the 1920s, though, and eventually started a dairy on Bodega Avenue that remains the center of our family universe. James no doubt found Mary, who was always called May, charming and gracious. Most people did. She had an easy charm and quick wit and had an uncommon talent of putting strangers at their ease. They met at a church picnic in a field, had a whirlwind courtship, married and crossed the Atlantic in a passenger ship which kept her seasick for a week. Then a cross-country train trip to San Francisco, a ferry to Marin -- the Golden Gate Bridge hadn't been finished yet -- and eventually to a farm that must have seemed to her like the end of the earth. Advertisement Petaluma as it appeared in the 1930s when May and James settled there. Go directly to May's full tribute with more photos and videos here. To submit a Life Story from your family for consideration on OurPaths and Huffington Post, go here: OurPaths.com. Sonoma Historical Society photo. She was the resident woman there and would be for the rest of her life. James' father was a widower and his brother John never married. She always remembered her father-in-law having a full measure of what a difficult situation this was for her and quickly telling her that he'd make sure she got whatever she needed. For her, that promise was a supreme kindness. My grandmother ran the house for three men who worked hard physical labor, cooked the meals and eventually raised three children, Jimmy, Joe and Bessie. It was very tough work. But it was also in a land at peace, with plentiful food, without sectarian bitterness. Like so many others who came from troubled homelands, the greatest day in her life was when she became an American citizen. Pearl Harbor was a shock to her (and the rest of the country) and she never quite forgave Japan for attacking her bright shining country. May McDowell never lost her Ulster brogue and I never heard her use the word "little'' when "wee'' would do. My father, James, who was born in 1936, had his mother's Irish accent when he began kindergarten and the teachers would start conversations with him just to hear it. The Irish connection stayed strong. Somehow, the California family managed to get care packages and mail to relatives back to Northern Ireland during the Depression and post-war years that were much appreciated. Advertisement The McDowells and their ranch near Petaluma became known among the Irish. New immigrants, visitors and friends or acquaintances of distant relatives making a trip to America would arrive at the ranch and receive endless cups of tea (favored guests might be offered something stronger, but my grandmother was a teetotaler her whole life), got a friendly chat with a view out her bay window over the ranch activity. Sometimes, they'd stay for a week or month. In the 1960s, an addition was put onto the main house to accommodate visitors and was ever-after known as the Hilton. A family portrait from the 1940s. May and Jim with children Jimmy, Bessie and Joe. She loved sweets -- no meal was worth having if there wasn't dessert -- and boxes of See's Candy were always on hand (usually picked over by her grandchildren beforehand) for whenever visitors dropped in. The most anticipated guest ever, though, was when May's older sister, Bessie, flew to America and spent the summer of 1967. It was a major event and my cousin Ken Jorgensen's baptism was scheduled to coincide with her visit. Transatlantic air travel was only just becoming affordable for ordinary people. Previously, the length and difficulty of ship journeys really meant that emigrants never saw their families again. The two sisters hadn't seen each other in 25 years and the reunion was deeply emotional. James McDowell died in 1979, a prominent and respected member of the community, and his brother John followed him in 1986. Mary McDowell survived a pair of heart attacks in the 1960s but saw the new millennium. She made a couple of trips to Ireland but her favorite vacation was one to Hawaii with her daughter, Bessie. She also loved the area of Lake Tahoe and made an annual visit. At her funeral, a D-Day veteran, Gene Benedetti, led a round of her favorite song, "God Bless America.'' Though my grandmother was a loyal Republican, she crossed party lines. One of California's leading Democratic politicians, John Burton, left the Democratic Convention in Los Angeles to attend her funeral. She had always reminded him of his own Irish immigrant family. Advertisement In the many tributes that day, people kept recalling "the twinkle in her eye.'' It still shines. In 2016, her descendants include her three children, six grandchildren, 10 great-grandchildren and four great-great grandchildren. As the head of an international women's rights organization, March is one of the busiest months on my calendar. I'm presenting on panels that mark International Women's Day on March 8 and giving talks that commemorate Women's History Month. I'm hopping from one coast to the other to meet with California-based supporters of women's rights and decision-makers in New York for the United Nations' 60th session of the Commission on the Status of Women. Throughout March, the message I will be sharing with funders, advocates, activists and policymakers is that the long march for gender equality isn't over, that women's collective advocacy matters and that financial support for women's collective advocacy is central to its success. It's important that every one of us who cares about gender equality takes stock of the progress we've made here in the United States and around the globe -- and that we also use this time to motivate ourselves to take on the next set of challenges and to think critically about how to achieve success. Advertisement In the last 150 years alone, women and girls have experienced exponential change in political and economic participation, health, education, and in breaking barriers and ceilings. After a long, hard-fought battle, American women won the right to vote in 1920. This year, we've had two female candidates for the U.S. Presidency. In 2011, Saudi Arabia finally gave women that same right to elect their representatives in government. In 1908, France's Therese Peltier became the first woman ever to pilot an airplane. This past November, Ethiopian Airlines announced that its first ever all-female flying crew led an intercontinental flight between Addis Ababa and Bangkok, Thailand. After years of research and development funded by Planned Parenthood, the FDA approved the pill in 1960, bringing oral contraception to millions of American women. Around the globe, women are increasingly using contraceptives of all kinds to plan their families. In Rwanda, for example, 51.6 percent of women between the ages of 15 to 49 use contraceptives, compared to just 13.2 percent in 2000. Advertisement In nearly every country on earth, the gap between girls and boys in primary school has closed, and more women than men now attend university in two-thirds of countries where we have available data. Behind each of these gains there are some famous faces--Shirley Chisholm, Amelia Earhart, Malala Yousafzai. There are also countless women whose names we may never know but whose energy and commitment to seeing women in their communities advance has propelled gender equality to new heights in the 20th and 21st centuries. We've seen women take to the streets en masse in India, Spain, Nigeria, Argentina and elsewhere to protest violence against women. In other contexts, women have come together to strategically push world leaders to ensure gender equality is on the global agenda, as when the United Nations formally adopted Sustainable Development Goal 5 this past September. There's no time to rest, though. Too much work remains. One in every three women will experience sexual or physical violence in her lifetime. While generally equal numbers of girls and boys are in school, the number of out-of-school children greatly skews female. Of the 775 million adults who are illiterate, two thirds of them are women. Women earn less than men in paid employment, and we work longer hours when you factor in care work and unpaid labor. To meet these challenges, we need all hands on deck. Those of us who are leaders in championing gender equality must focus on cultivating a strong, sustainable feminist movement in every country. I know this from having personally seen what grassroots, community-led movements can do, and the research says the same thing: in a study of 70 countries over four decades, strong feminist movements had a bigger impact in reducing violence against women than the economic growth of countries, women's political participation, or progressive politics. Advertisement Collectively pushing for gender equality through policy and programs holds decision-makers at every level accountable to women and girls. A strong and clear voice united around core beliefs is vital for being heard and heeded by those in power. When donors join together with everyday activists and civil society organizations, we're amplifying the priorities and solutions of all community members, including the most marginalized women and girls. "Everybody has a plan until they get punched in the mouth." -- Mike Tyson After a brief, memorable chat with Vinod Khosla last year at TechCrunch Disrupt, I was eager to see the legendary venture capitalist speak again this year at Startup Grind in Redwood City, California. When I asked him how to get feedback on discriminating between good ideas, he told me to ask people not why an idea is working, but instead to ask them why it is not working. This was valuable feedback for our startup at the time. Khosla repeatedly insisted that he was there to talk directly to the founders. That's why I decided to write up my notes and share his wisdom with the hope that even more entrepreneurs can benefit from his sage advice. In his afternoon fireside with Derek Anderson, co-founder of Startup Grind, Khosla said that the most important decision as a founder is whom you want to partner with. That includes investment partners and your co-founders. In partnering with an investor, money is the least important thing you get. The purpose of an early stage investor is to have the founder think hard about the things they haven't thought about. Entrepreneur get better if they are sensitized to issues they are not exposed to naturally. Khosla insisted that you want to have an investor that pushes you hard. That means exposing possible risk in your business plan, both real and perceived risks. How do you know you have the right investor? When an investor pushes you and almost makes you feel uncomfortable. "If I haven't doubled the potential of a startup then I as an investor haven't done my job," he said. Advertisement Khosla also drew a clear line on who should make the decisions in an early-stage venture. In most cases, it is the founders. "Nobody who comes in once every six weeks while you're working 80 or 90 hours a week is qualified to make a decision," he said. Khosla believes that in a small company a board shouldn't do much. If someone is not in the trenches with the founders, they are not qualified to make decisions. The board should push them hard and make them think. Unfortunately, most investors want to be nice and polite. As a founder, you need to understand that you are the one who is driving the company. Not just for investors, but for any hire, get people around you that push you in a constructive way. "A company becomes the people it hires," he said. Another way to help as an investor is helping them to get the right team. What a company plans is then almost irrelevant. Plans are only important in the sense that they help you think hard about all your risks and prevent them by building firewalls in advance. Backstage at TechCrunch Disrupt 2015 He also briefly talked about the distinction between a manager and a founder. What distinguishes the two is that the founder has a belief system, whereas good managers don't. As a founder you set the value and belief system. What makes for a good manager makes for a bad entrepreneur When Khosla does have a meeting he measures it. According to him, if he takes up 2-3 hours of time of a founder, he better walk out with questions that are important to their business. He also mentioned that instinct and intuition are important for founders to maintain. Therefore keeping those two things intact is important. In most cases founders shouldn't follow the advice they are getting. What not to do is equally important to what you need to do. The best advice is that you have constantly someone, either yourself or others, and ideally both that challenge your assumptions. Advertisement As a startup it is important to keep you burn rate small, and only raise money when you have a business that is read to scale. "People who get a lot of money reduce their probability of success," he said. Despite all the focus in Europe on refugees, terrorism and Brexit, there is one region which still requires the attention of both European elite as well as its society -- Eastern Europe. We are at risk of losing our focus in the region, and this could hurt countries that are attempting to finally shed their Soviet heritage. As the most recent issue of New Eastern Europe points out, now is not the time for Europe to lose faith. Supporting the reform processes taking place in Ukraine is an area where countries like Poland can help lead Europe. One initiative which already exists, and needs new momentum, is the EU's Eastern Partnership program. The Eastern Partnership is an initiative launched in 2009 in Prague. The initiators of this initiative were both Poland and Sweden. Building off the success of EU accession of Central European states, the Eastern Partnership aims at enhancing Europe's relations with six post-Soviet states of Armenia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Moldova, Georgia and Ukraine. In other words, the goal is to have integrated relations between those states that want to be closer to Europe and ultimately set the stage for future EU accession (when both the EU and these states are ready). Advertisement The winter of 2013 and 2014 was a seminal period for the Eastern Partnership and the EU with the Maidan revolution and, following V. Yanukovych's departure, signing the Association Agreement by Ukraine, Moldova and Georgia. Gdansk in time of events on Maidan in Kiev, photo: gdansk.pl There is no doubt that a large part of the driving forces behind the changes taking place in these countries has been its civil society. We saw how Ukrainians organized against their corrupt regime, demanding reforms and a more European way of life, which includes openness, transparency and democratic norms. I believe that supporting civil society in the Eastern Partnership countries is an area which not only national governments can support, but local governments in Europe as well. Decentralization and strengthening local government in post-Soviet states is one major area that we can specifically address. Here in Gdansk we get involved in several very specific projects addressed to diversified communities in Eastern Partnership countries. For years Gdansk has been financially and organizationally supporting the independent secondary school in Minsk, capital of Belarus. Since 2013, this high school enjoys the status of an international school based in Gdansk, which allows its students to take the official High School Exit Examination recognized by the Polish educational system. Many graduates of this high school choose to continue their education at Polish universities. Advertisement We foster cultural and economic cooperation with local governments and social organisations from Mariupol, Odessa, Grodno, Polock and Novopolock. The natural space for this cooperation is also supporting the Polish communities in these countries. This approach is consistently carried out by our repatriation activity. Every year we enable two families to make their home in Gdansk. For several years we have helped in this way dozens of families repatriated to Gdansk. Each of these families receives the apartment, and help in getting a job and education. Last, but not least, we are active in The Conference of Regional and Local Authorities for the Eastern Partnership (referred to as "CORLEAP"), which is the political forum of discussion, consultation, supervision and monitoring post-soviet countries in respect of all questions relating to the Eastern Partnership at the local and regional level. Additionally the City of Gdansk provides financial support for the issuance of an important magazine "New Eastern Europe". This is no small expense, but, I believe, well worth its price. On Saturday the voters of South Carolina gave Hillary Clinton a huge victory sending her into Super Tuesday with the wind at her back. Hillary earned victory because the people of South Carolina know her; they trust she will have their backs when she is President. Last week Jon Favreau, a former speechwriter for President Obama, wrote a very personal and beautiful endorsement of Hillary. I can't compete with his eloquence so thank him for his incredibly gracious comments about the person I believe will be our next President. He began: I hear you're still not 'Ready for Hillary'. I get it. I didn't start off as her biggest fan either. During the 2008 campaign, I wrote plenty less-than-complimentary words about Hillary Clinton in my role as Barack Obama's speechwriter. Weeks after the election, I had a well-documented run-in with a piece of cardboard that bore a striking resemblance to the incoming Secretary of State. It was one of the stupider, more disrespectful mistakes I've made, and one that could have cost me a job if Hillary hadn't accepted my apology, which she did with grace and humor. As a result, I had the chance to serve in the Obama administration with someone who was far different than the caricature I had helped perpetuate. He went on: The most famous woman in the world would walk through the White House with no entourage, casually chatting up junior staffers along the way. She was by far the most prepared, impressive person at every Cabinet meeting. She worked harder and logged more miles than anyone in the administration, including the president. And she'd spend large amounts of time and energy on things that offered no discernible benefit to her political future -- saving elephants from ivory poachers, listening to the plight of female coffee farmers in Timor-Leste, defending LGBT rights in places like Uganda. He ended by saying: At stake in this election is control of a Tea Party-run Congress, at least one Supreme Court vacancy that could tip the balance for a generation, and the very real chance that a highly unstable demagogue could become the 45th president of the United States. So while I may not have imagined myself saying this a few years ago, I certainly believe it now: It's far more important to elect Hillary Clinton in 2016 than it was to elect Barack Obama in 2008. In my gut, I know Hillary Clinton will be one of the United States greatest Presidents. Her vision, brilliance, experience and passion will lift all Americans. My first contact with Hillary was in 1990 when she keynoted an education conference in Little Rock. She spoke from her heart, with incredible specificity, about education and the need to ensure every child received an education allowing them to reach their God-given potential. She committed to fighting for a quality education for every child. She understood we need to provide that no matter where a child is born whether Little Rock, Arkansas, Harlem, New York or Beverly Hills, California. Hillary has never given up the fight to make that a reality. For twenty-five years Hillary has faced vicious attacks from the Republican Party. Whitewater, Travelgate, the Vince Foster rumors, to Benghazi today. Never has it been shown Hillary did anything wrong. Through it all she stood tall and continued to work for people; fighting for universal healthcare and to make adoption easier as first lady; fighting for the rights of first responders and healthcare for members of the national guard after 9/11 as Senator from New York; and as Secretary of State putting together the coalition which led to the agreement ensuring Iran wouldn't have a nuclear weapon now and giving us time to work to see they never will. My belief and trust in her never wavered. My admiration has only grown as she courageously spoke out for women in Beijing in 1995 and for the LGBT community in Geneva in 2011. Today she speaks out forcefully on the need to face head-on the systemic racism that exists in our country, the need to reform our immigration system, the need to guarantee full equality for the LGBT community and to ensure Wall Street will never again harm Main Street. Hillary's vision for our future is clear. When she said thank you to the people of South Carolina for the victory they gave her she spoke of so many of our hopes and dreams. She said, "Today you sent a message: in America, when we stand together, there is no barrier too big to break. Our victory is for the entrepreneur who told me more dreams die in the parking lots of banks than anywhere else. And that's especially true for women and people of color. So we're going to work together to give people -- particularly young people -- the tools you need to start that small business you've been dreaming of. Advertisement It is for the reverend -- a presiding elder of the AME Church -- who looked at all the violence and division in our country and asked me the other night, "How? How are we ever going to strengthen the bonds of family and community again?" Well, we're going to start by working together with more love and kindness in our hearts and more respect for each other, even when we disagree. Despite what you hear, we don't need to make America great again: America has never stopped being great. But we do need to make America whole again. Instead of building walls, we need to be tearing down barriers. We need to show by everything we do that we really are in this together." Hillary spoke to all our better angels when she said in a clear and resonant voice, "Imagine what we can all build together, when each and every American has the chance to live up to his or her potential. Imagine a tomorrow where no child grows up in the shadow of discrimination or under the specter of deportation. Imagine a tomorrow where every parent can find a good job, and every grandparent can enjoy a secure retirement. Imagine a tomorrow where hard work is honored, where families are supported, and where communities are strong; when we trust and respect each other despite all that divides us." She went on to quote I Corinthians 13, "Love never fails," it tells us. Love bears all things, believes all things, hopes all things, endures all things." The Sugar Hill neighborhood of Harlem has a much-lauded history, perhaps most notable for the central role it played during the Harlem Renaissance of the 1920s and 1930s. The area was once home to the likes of Duke Ellington, Zora Neale Hurston and Thurgood Marshall. Many gravitated to the community for its location offering sweeping views of upper Manhattan, revered architecture and socially conscious creative community. This past October announced the arrival of a new neighbor in the area, the Sugar Hill Children's Museum of Art & Storytelling. The Museum is housed within Sugar Hill Project, a mixed-use site that also includes affordable housing units and a preschool. Developed by Broadway Housing Communities and designed by esteemed architect David Adjaye, the innovative building aims to make its mark within the historic neighborhood. Credit: Wade Zimmerman For Columbia University Community Scholar and historian, John Reddick, the Museum has a prime opportunity to reflect the significant role African-Americans played in establishing the neighborhood as a cultural force. Such a viewpoint is reflected in the Museum's current exhibition "People, Places, and Things: Selections from The Studio Museum" which includes depictions of everyday life in communities throughout the U.S., including Harlem. Advertisement Artist-in-Residence David Shrobe with students from Sugar Hill Museum Pre-School "A lot of Sugar Hill has been landmarked and as architecture gets more expensive you realize black people did live there and what that must have meant in terms of the life that was part of that architecture," said Reddick, a Harlem resident. "We walk through a neighborhood and see white people there and think we could never afford it. But we lived there too, and those who lived there weren't all impoverished. As people fled cities, black people stayed in neighborhoods like Sugar Hill during the postwar era." Credit: Wade Zimmerman However, in recent times the neighborhood has faced high poverty rates and increasing housing costs as gentrification spreads throughout Harlem. It is a paradox familiar in many U.S. cities. For this reason, Naomi Fertitta, author of New York: The Big City and its Little Neighborhoods, believes the Museum can look to Sugar Hill political figures of the past to help advance the cause for housing and economic social justice. "People like W.E.B. Du Bois and Roy Wilkins are part of African-American history and the beginning of a political movement that wasn't there before the beginning of the 20th century. They tried to break down Jim Crow laws, protested against lynching and discrimination," said Fertitta. "You cannot stop gentrification but can create an environment of mixed income housing. It's important because we shouldn't be this exclusive rich enclave that ignores its poorer neighborhoods. A cultural and educational institution like the Museum can participate in that politically to ensure people are protected and can live in this neighborhood in a comfortable fashion." The Museum's As a fourth generation Harlemite, visual artist David Shrobe is aware of the challenges facing Sugar Hill. But as the Sugar Hill Children's Museum of Art & Storytelling's first artist-in-residence, he is committed to representing the beauty of Sugar Hill through his art. For Shrobe, the Museum represents the brightest of Sugar Hill's past, present and future. Advertisement "I have a special connection to Harlem, and its many neighborhoods such as Sugar Hill; for its rich history and culture, art, food, old bodegas and classy uptown style. The photography of Roy DeCarava and the poetry of Langston Hughes have been major inspirations to me," said Shrobe. "This is where I began to really create my art, documenting this architectural treasure, people, and the changes to the neighborhood. Having the Museum as part of a larger vision for community revitalization truly provides a sense of pride and value that good things are happening here in Sugar Hill." By Rob Fee This article originally appeared on Playboy.com. Can you watch a movie backwards? Of course you can't. But what if you could? Turns out most movies would be completely ridiculous if you started from the end and watched the plot unfold from the opposite side of the story. Here's how some of your all time favorite films would play out if you watched them in reverse: 1. Pretty Woman (1990) Richard Gere stops kissing his wife on the mouth so she returns all the nice clothes he bought her and becomes a prostitute. 2. Harry Potter (2001) A noseless man gets kicked out of a high school for trying to murder a child. 3. Paranormal Activity (2007) A family invites a handy demon over to repair squeaky doors and fix drafty windows. Advertisement 4. The Ring (2002) A young Asian girl who emerges from a well to start a 7-day VHS repair business. 5. Taken (2008) Liam Neeson drops his daughter off at a party boat until some kind Albanian guys return her home. 6. Finding Nemo (2003) A fish and his son travel back from Australia just in time to see a shark spit out his wife and children. 7. Men in Black (1997) Tommy Lee Jones uses a flashing light to convince Will Smith to stop wearing suits and join the NYPD. 8. Forrest Gump (1994) A mentally challenged man moonwalks across America so he can fly to Vietnam and find his friend's legs. Advertisement 9. Die Hard (1988) Alan Rickman climbs a tower to help Bruce Willis find his shoes & tidy up for a company Christmas party. 10. Gravity (2013) Sandra Bullock travels to space and finds increasingly larger ships during her quest to rescue a stranded George Clooney. 11. Independence Day (1996) Aliens come to earth and drop off a very drunk Randy Quaid so he can start a struggling crop dusting company. 12. Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory (1971) A factory owner rescues a series of children and saves the town's economy by hiring local workers and employees. 13. I Am Legend (2007) Will Smith spends every day cleaning up New York City and stocking it with supplies for millions of people to move in. Advertisement 14. Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (1990) A karate master melts down his enemies into tiny turtles and returns them to the pet store. 15. The Blair Witch Project (1999) A group of kids find some cameras in the woods and decide to ignore all the voodoo stuff they come across so they can return the equipment back home. 16. Super Size Me (2004) A man loses a ton of weight and gets healthier by vomiting up McDonald's food every day for a month. ________________________________________ More from Playboy.com: Jesse Eisenberg Tells Us What It Takes to Be a Modern Supervillain Also on HuffPost: Famous Drinks from Your Favorite Movies See Gallery These questions originally appeared on Quora - the knowledge sharing network where compelling questions are answered by people with unique insights. Answers by Matt Gallagher, former US Army captain and the author of the acclaimed Iraq war novel Youngblood, on Quora. A: By the time my scout platoon and I got there (part of the 25th Infantry Division) in late 2007, the American military was in full-on strategy switch mode to counterinsurgency (COIN). Basically, a more armed beat cop approach, getting out in local communities and engaging the locals on their turf, etc. The status quo was clearly not working, so sure, why not? Let's try it. I don't want to say soldiers don't play the blame game, because soldiers are humans and humans naturally question things, but in that moment, I think we all were just looking for some solution that didn't end in all-out civil war. Back then, and through the duration of our 15 months there, there was a sense of cautious optimism that COIN was working, at least in our little town northwest of Baghdad. Advertisement It seems quaint now, but when we came home in early 2009, we really did think we'd won the war, or something like it. Now, as veterans, I think we relate to our war and what transpired in Iraq in a variety of ways. Can only speak from anecdotes and friendships here, but I think many vets blame the Bush administration for invading without a clear plan, and believe what came after was inevitable without that clear plan in the beginning. Others (and maybe some of the same) believe the Obama administration made a critical error by fully withdrawing in 2011, that our modest gains of security and stability could've been sustained without that decision. Others blame the generals, be it Franks in the beginning or the COIN people near the end. I think a vast majority of vets think Bremer made the utmost error of the war by firing all government officials with Ba'athist Party ties in 2003, essentially creating an insurgency overnight. I'll say this - the Army I joined in 2005 was more conservative-leaning than the one I left in 2009. Directly tied to Iraq, in my opinion. Perhaps that's changed in the six years since, though. Advertisement ... A: Another tough but important question! I don't think there's one clear answer on that. Why does the same firefight or same roadside bomb attack give one soldier an adrenaline rush and nothing else, but another post-traumatic stress? Why do studies show that direct combat experience isn't necessarily a precursor for deployment-related post-traumatic stress? Our brains are all so different. One thing that I think is common is how war (or at least war in Iraq) wore us all down. No one sleeps, each hour has a new figurative fire to put out, the stress and stakes are all so unbelievably high ... one small mistake can mean potentially awful, fatal consequences. Hell, even doing the right thing all the time can result in those potentially awful, fatal consequences. I know I became numb, emotionally and psychologically. I look back on my writing from that deployment and see it - I don't have the time or distance to brood over the consequences of the day's actions, only the energy to muster for another's days worth of actions. Of course that'll result in some wear and tear (physical and otherwise) on even the most hardened souls. To end a light note: Rip Its and Wild Tigers helped. These great, addicting energy drinks that probably are outlawed in most Western nations. Wild Tigers (supposedly) had liquid nicotine in them. ... A: It can be frustrating, but frustration is a small thing, especially when you're over there. We got there in late 2007, and pushing back a country from the brink of civil war - granted a civil war we helped initiate - felt like a good thing, worthy of pursuit. So you concentrate on what you can control in the moment, your town, your neighborhood, your platoon and your patrols. Of course that other stuff creeps in - how could it not, especially late at night when you have too much time to think on guard duty and the like - but when you're there, it's about the guys next to you, about the next mission. Advertisement Obviously that all changes when you come home and interact with civilians who have a wider but more distant view of what you just participated in. It took me a few years, but I've gotten to the point where I just want people to engage with what America did in Iraq, to think critically about it and to think about how what happened there might effect our collective futures. It's so easy and natural to be disengaged from American military force nowadays, but it's also counter to our ideals as a republic. Not to get too soapbox-y on you all, but we as a citizenry need to take back our military for our country's good. And I say that as a citizen first, and as a veteran second. [/end rant] It's been eight years since his last novel, and Ethan Canin has returned with the dazzlingly ambitious A Doubter's Almanac, which is one part intellectual thriller, one part domestic saga. At the center of the novel is Milo Andret, a brilliant mathematician who proves something called the Malosz conjecture (Canin made it up) and launches himself to international renown and a chair at Princeton University. To read A Doubter's Almanac is to become so immersed in the workings of a singular mind that we find ourselves solving (or almost solving) equations with Milo without ever stopping to worry that in real life we can't do any of the math. Milo is an Ahab among intellectuals, and in his monomaniacal pursuit of abstract truths inflicts terrible interpersonal damage on colleagues, rivals, friends (there aren't many), the women he beds, and his wife and children. When I ask Canin how long it took him to write the book, he says, six years, maybe seven drafts, but then wishes his wife Barbara who's just stepped out for coffee were there because she'd know the answer. A while later -- after we've moved on to other topics -- Barbara returns and he asks her, "Barb, how many drafts?" and she says, "Eleven, I think," and when he suggests that might be too many, she agrees and modifies the estimate. I wonder aloud if it just seemed like more to her, and she laughs, as Ethan's laugh echoes hers -- "It seemed like eleven to her. Exactly." Advertisement He can't count the drafts. But what Canin does know is that at some point the novel ballooned as a result of his wrestling with the theoretical mathematics, and then he had to cut it back. Still, the labor made the math authentic, and if there's a literary topologist out there, Canin wagers, he or she could read this book and not be "nauseated by the inaccuracy." The verdict of mathematicians aside, his readers will be struck with admiration for Canin's depiction of what it's like to pursue difficult ideas and, in Milo Andret's case, to impose horribly on others in the pursuit of what obsesses you. Talk to me for a minute about the unique perspective gained from your dual-career. You went to Harvard medical school, did your residency in San Francisco while working as a writer, then later gave up medicine to focus exclusively on writing. How does that past life inform what you do now? Being a doctor, it's an unbelievable privilege to have that window into humanity. You get to meet everybody from the wealthy to the despondently poor to the deeply sick to people just having their first baby. You see a lot of people days or hours from death or scared of it. In probably the most brutal month of my residency, I worked on a liver transplant unit at UC-San Francisco where I took care of people waiting to have transplants-- a lot of them were cirrhotic. I saw all kinds of people, from people who had been drinking for fifty years, to a twenty-five year old young woman who was sitting on a mountainside and she woke up with a new liver, and I asked her what's the last thing she remembered, and she said, "I remember my boyfriend giving me some mushrooms to eat." Advertisement And, in fact, one of the plot lines in Doubter's Almanac deals with a prolonged case of cirrhosis. All that medicine really inspired me, seeing, for example, these gargantuan people who have all these fluids in their abdomens. I used to be the guy who'd stick a needle in there and suck all the fluid out. Medicine is a trade really, it's an earthy trade. It's about putting your hands on people, a lot of it's about what in medicine they call procedures, cutting things off, sewing them closed, inserting things, it's very mechanical. It's very much of the earth, it's of life and death. I was just reading Saul Bellow and, boy, he was a master at that, the offset of the sacred and the profane. One of the things I loved about writing is that you can mix the philosophical and the earthy. So your background as a doctor helps you get that part of the story down. But you're not a mathematician as far as I know. What did it take to get the math right? I was talking with a friend of mine in Iowa City, and I said, "Do you know any friendly mathematicians?" and she said, "Yeah, I know a very friendly guy who's a mathematician." The guy in my book is a topologist, which is an extremely unusual field, and I said, "What kind of mathematician is this guy?", and it turns out he was a topologist. He had been teaching at the University of Iowa, just retired, and he's just the sweetest, most wonderful guy. Jon Simon's his name. He read the whole book, he gave me fifty pages of notes on the math. So, I was, like, great, man, and I spent a whole draft putting all this math into it, and I sent it to my editor and she said, "What the hell did you just do?" [laughs] She goes, "You got to take all that back out." Well what you kept is powerful. In fact your portrait of a mathematical mind at work is marvelous, makes me somewhat nostalgic for my days as a "mathlete," maybe taps the math nerd in us all. As you were launching the dangerously brilliant Milo Andret into the world, was there anything about the field of math you were hoping your reader would discover? I happen to love the math. But I was not writing it with any agenda in mind other than that I found it beautiful and inspiring. The book's about obsession, obsession and love, which are maybe sort of similar, which are the ingredients, I think, of genius--which has a lot of other ingredients, including the tendency to ignore everything that's not part of the obsession. With regard to the math, I was inspired by American Pastoral, that Philip Roth novel. There are these huge tracts about glove-making in New Jersey, I love the glove-making, even though I didn't understand the vocabulary, I didn't care, I knew it had to do with gloves and it was just cool. A lot of people have been turned off by math and told they can't do it, but math is not that hard -- I mean this stuff Milo is doing is hard -- but most of it's not hard. Everybody can do it but somehow they get turned off. Advertisement In its basic form this is a higher-they-climb-the-harder-they-fall story. Ultimately, the son Hans who tells the story comes to believe his father's gifted mind is at least as much curse as gift. To me it goes back to biblical times, I suppose, that idea of knowledge being the curse. The inability to stop thinking in a way is a curse. I think a lot of smart people have felt that in their lives, that the inability to stop thinking really prevents them from entering life. I think a lot of readers probably feel that, I think a lot of intellectuals feel that. It's also just this idea of raging and battling against the storm, battling against the inevitable, the unknowable, the unstoppable-- what is there but the battle? You told me that when you started writing this novel you didn't know you were going to introduce Hans as the narrator. Did you know Milo had a son? No, in fact I would have said, "This guy?, no, f-ing way does he have a son." But I thought that would complicate it, giving him a wife, a son, a family, in case he seemed too one-sided. Advertisement So late in the novel this son who ends up telling his father's story stops to consider "how ignorant we are of the lives of our parents." It's a line that goes straight to the heart of your intergenerational plot. A lot of the novel is about forgiveness, or trying to understand the pain of another -- but it's the rare kid, I think, who even as an adult can understand his parents as people. It's crazy because it's very easy to understand our children as people, or to think we do, I suppose, but so much more difficult to go the other way. Many readers will have first encountered you as the author of the celebrated story collections Emperor of Air and The Palace Thief. Do you work on stories any longer? Is there a reason why you've become almost exclusively devoted to the art of the novel? Technically, my contract with Random House was for a novel and a book of stories, and I had a few stories, and figured I could write a few more and pay off maybe my kids' college tuition-- or one of them anyway. But you can't decide what you write --you don't write a novel, a novel writes you. When I was young, I remember thinking, if I could just write a story longer than twelve pages, that would be a big step. Now I can't really start anything and not take it all the way to a novelistic length. So the longer form of the novel reflects something about where you've come in your own life? Stories seem easy to me, well, not easy, but they're a hell of a lot easier. I'm interested in the story of a life. That's sort of the only thing that interests me any more -- how did your life turn out? -- and that's really a novelistic question. Advertisement You brought up Bellow earlier, a personal favorite of mine. Do you have certain writers you revisit who seem friendly to you as you're working on a novel? Bellow's the greatest writer of the last century, I think, of those I've read anyway, and people don't really know him anymore-- it's crazy how quickly one can subside. Early on in my career whenever I was stuck I would open Augie March just because it was a crazy outpouring of linguistic energy, and you'd open to page 274 and find a paragraph better than anything you'd ever written in your life. I don't read much fiction when I'm writing now, other than student stories. Seven or eight times a semester I'll read a story that's just tight and knocks me over, which is way cooler in a way than reading a great writer or, I should say, a known great writer. Can I ask how teaching at the Iowa Writers' Workshop all these years has shaped you as a writer? I can't remember if it's Bellow who said it, but I've always been moved by that phrase, "A writer is a reader moved to emulation." Every couple of weeks at Iowa I'll read something that makes me want to write, which is an unbelievable gift. When I'm browbeating my students about something, I'll get midway through class and with my mouth open realize, "Oh, right, that's what I should be doing in my book." I really strive to be methodical and rigorous as a teacher: I don't think writing is a touchy-feely thing at all, I think writing is a brutal and exacting thing. At some point it must involve sincere philosophy and reflection, but you do have to cut it pretty sharp or it just all falls apart. What's something offbeat about Ethan Canin that readers might be fascinated to learn, perhaps something you do for yourself that has nothing to do with writing? Advertisement Europe has long touted itself as a beacon of human rights and freedoms. From their safe and secure area of the world, they've looked askance at Israel with a self-righteous smugness that proclaims, "If only we were in Israel's position, there would have been peace and tranquility with Hamas, Hezbollah, the Palestinian Authority and all Arab nations." However, the recent influx of refugees into the European content has put Europe to the test, and to the unfortunate shock of many, we are starting to learn that Europe is not as tolerant as we would otherwise believe. Yet the world really doesn't seem so concerned about it. Europe is very good at judging Israel but seems to have a double standard when it comes to itself. What one must ask is, how would Israel have been treated if they had adopted the policies and actions towards migrants that Europe has? Let's look at some facts. To begin, Czech President Milos Zeman recently said, "It's practically impossible to integrate Muslims into Western Europe," and referred to the migrants as implementing an "organized invasion." The Czech republic has refused to open their borders to the masses of refugees. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has complained that the influx of refugees "could redraw Europe's cultural and religious identity." Apparently when these statements are coming from Europe, they are not condemned. Hungary and Slovenia have now built barbed wire fences along their borders to keep migrants out. Poland and Slovakia follow a similar policy, not allowing any refugees within their borders. Austria has passed legislation allowing only 80 migrants a day to apply for asylum. Hungary has even taken the extra step of criminalizing undocumented border crossings with up to three years in prison. We are also now learning that the poor and desperate refugees reaching Denmark are actually having their valuables confiscated by the government to pay for their processing. This includes watches, laptops, and any cash amount over $1450 dollars. This has been enshrined within Denmark's laws. Switzerland has been doing the same thing and just recently Germany has accepted this policy as well. This is aided by legal strip searches of migrants within some European countries. The little bit of money seized from these refugees may represent a lifetime of hard work and savings, confiscated in a moment with no legal recourse. It is unimaginable that Israel would ever contemplate something similar. We are witnessing that racial profiling is an acceptable way of dealing with refugees- as long as you are Europe. In German, Austrian, and Dutch cities migrant males have been legally banned from various swimming pools, bathhouses and saunas. Different clubs and bars in Austria have a no migrant men policy and in Denmark men will not be allowed into certain establishments unless they can speak Danish, German or English. Coming out in the news is that Doctors Without Borders has announced that they will no longer provide services at migrant reception centers in Italy. Why? Because the Italian government has allowed these centers, which accommodate tens of thousands of refugees, to fall into disrepair. Squalid restrooms, bug infestations, showers without privacy, untreated mold, and water leaks are par for the course for these refugee centers, and the Italian government has purposefully allowed this to happen in the hopes of dissuading future migrants. What if this was Israel instead? Can you imagine the headlines? Many other European states are passing laws making it almost impossible for migrants to ever adjust and live a normal life within these countries. Laws have been passed to severely limit migrants' access to social welfare benefits, and other enactments that require waits of three years before family members can be brought over for reunification. Some European states do not allow migrants to live outside of refugee centers--some of which are nothing but tent encampments. Migrants also face long waits just to acquire work permits. The overall goal of all these laws is to make it harder for migrants to gain permanent status and to try to make life so difficult they will be compelled to leave. Anti-immigrant verbal abuse and outright physical attacks are seemingly becoming the norm in Europe, as the ranks of far right wing movements increase by the day. Recently, in the East German town of Bautzen, a hotel that was being converted into a migrant shelter was engulfed in flames in a suspected arson case. A crowd at the scene cheered as the building burned and police said that many of the people looked and spoke with "unashamed delight." Some of the crowd even tried to stop firefighters from putting out the flames. Another German town saw 100 angry protesters block a bus of migrants from debarking from their bus. And now we are learning that Sweden has announced plans to deport 80,000 refugees while Finland announced deportations of 20,000. A number of European countries have begun passing legislation that classify refugees from Afghanistan as "economic migrants" thus barring them from being granted asylum. Never mind the fact that 2015 was the worst year for civilian casualties on record. People who risked their lives to escape squalor and tyrannical regimes are being cordoned off based on their ethnicities and forcibly removed from Europe. Can you step back for a second and imagine if everything mentioned above had happened in Israel instead? Can you hear the condemnations and self-righteous proclamations that would have echoed from one side of the globe to the other? The calls for boycotts and sanctions? Now its reached the point where a recent poll shows 29% of Germans support a open fire policy on the border to keep the refugees out. Is shooting to kill now becoming an acceptable refugee policy? As larger number of migrants continue entering Europe, these sentiments will inevitably only increase. One can only hope that fascist nationalism does not replace the crumbling policies and approaches of European governments that we are witnessing today. Europe has been callously and unfairly judging and condemning Israel for years as they sat atop their lofty perch. However, the influx of desperate refugees is exposing Europe's "humanitarian" nature as hypocritical in the extreme. Given what we are already witnessing in Europe, one can only imagine what might become if it faced a fraction of the pressures and dangers that Israel faces daily. Alan Dershowitz has argued that one should not look at whether Israel is a moral country in comparison to other nations that are never attacked or faced with its realities. Rather, Israel must be judged by nations who face similar circumstances and a similar level of threat. And based on that criteria, Israel is quite simply the most moral nation on earth. The Washington Post calls Shmuley Boteach "the most famous Rabbi in America." He is founder of The World Values Network and is the international best-selling author of 30 books. Next month he will publish "The Israel Warrior: Fighting the Battles of the Jewish State in the Marketplace of Ideas." Follow him on Twitter @RabbiShmuley. Image Courtesy of Bay News 9 The predominantly white Good Samaritan Church in St. Petersburg, Florida is getting pushback for having posted a message about white privilege on a sign out front. The sign reads: "IF YOU ARE WHITE, USE YOUR PRIVILEGE TO FIGHT FOR JUSTICE" One local resident who objected to the sign explained: "I don't think there is such thing as ... white privilege." This type of reaction did not take the church by surprise. They chose to display this message despite having experienced similar feedback when, over MLK Jr. weekend, they had posted: Advertisement "WHITE PRIVILEGE: IF YOU CAN'T SEE IT YOU'VE GOT IT" Is Good Samaritan Church wasting their time? Not at all. Their idea of a public display about white privilege has enormous potential to awaken white people to their privilege not just in St. Petersburg, but if adopted by houses of worship across the country, nationwide. Here is why. Religious institutions have a unique moral platform. When they have made good use of this platform, particularly in a coordinated fashion, they have helped achieve great moral successes. Take Darfur. Just a decade ago, the interfaith community's coordinated involvement in the issue of genocide in Western Sudan helped millions of Americans gain awareness about the issue and pressure our government to intervene. The "Save Darfur" banners in front of houses of worship throughout the country were no doubt a key part of the consciousness raising that led individuals to take action, including joining rallies and sending postcards to Congress. Today, houses of worship could make use of their trusted moral voice to encourage white people to notice their white privilege. A banner campaign would be especially effective on white privilege because, when it comes to white privilege, consciousness raising is an end in and of itself. As I have written about before, white privilege is, among other things, the privilege of obliviousness to race. It makes white people, no matter how well intentioned, extremely susceptible to being blind to our own privilege, and to the privilege of other white people in our midst. White people must be aware of white privilege in order to be able to take action to challenge it in our daily lives-- in the way we raise our children, involve ourselves in their schools, act in our jobs, conduct ourselves in our daily public interactions and give back both financially and in our public service activities. Signs and banners that call attention to the term "white privilege" begin to chip away at a system that is built to disguise it. For this reason, Good Samaritan's first sign that read "White Privilege: If you can't see it you've got it" is particularly effective. Advertisement As was the case with Darfur, a national interfaith banner campaign would also signify much deeper involvement. Good Samaritan Church, besides posting signs, is studying race in their mostly white church. Similarly, last summer, when nearly 200 Rabbis from the Reform Jewish Movement joined the NAACP's Journey for Justice, their involvement was certainly symbolically and visually significant. But it was also both the outgrowth of-- and the further impetus behind--- the Reform Movement's "Reflect, Relate, Reform" nationwide campaign, which was announced shortly thereafter. A multi-faith banner effort on white privilege would go a long way in raising awareness about white privilege. Imagine what it would also represent in terms of the commitment of our country's houses of worship to challenging white privilege. Some might say that these signs shut down conversation and self-reflection rather than invite it. While the people who are most resistant might be the most verbal, there are many others in the community whom such a sign might cause to pursue more conversation and learning. Even for the hard to reach ones, it might be effective. Think of when we get into an argument with someone we respect. Though we may strenuously oppose what the other one is proffering during such an argument, it is nonetheless common for each person to have progressed in seeing and understanding the other's viewpoint after there is time to cool off. House of worship banners that call attention to white privilege would make a lot of white people in the community pause and think. These signs would also send an important message to people of color that faith institutions recognize the problem of racial injustice in our country. Sitting next to his mother on a pile of blankets scattered on the floor, the three-year-old boy with Down Syndrome was playing and laughing happily. They were resting in a heated tent provided by one of the nonprofits in Tabanovce, a transit center at the Macedonian-Serbian border. She was encouraging him along, trying to create a rare moment of childhood normality on their strenuous travel to Western Europe. A few other family members, including the woman's eldest daughter, surrounded them, while two teenage boys slept nearby, bundled up in clothes and covers to create an illusion of warmth. The family soon had to continue the four-kilometer journey to Serbia on foot, as the Macedonian government did not provide transportation assistance. The woman was friendly and, while she couldn't speak English, we were nevertheless able to communicate, with the help of a South African volunteer who knew some Arabic. The family was from Damascus, Syria. She had decided to flee from her husband's domestic abuse and took her children with her to prevent them from becoming his perpetual victims. In a fortuitous move for her youngest child, the family had left before ISIS issued in mid-December 2015 a fatwa to kill babies with Down Syndrome. The terrorist group announced that it had executive 38 babies born with disabilities in Syria and Mosul through lethal injections or suffocation. It also claimed that children with Down syndrome are born to 'foreign fighters,' who married Iraqi, Syrian and Asian women. Advertisement In moving to Europe, the Syrian family wanted a safer future for the child as well as an environment, where he would face less discrimination and would have access to the type of medical support that his condition required. It was easy to tell that he was loved and sheltered by his family, whose members were constantly making sure that he was smiling and playing, taking turns to keep an eye on him. During the two days spent in Tabanovce, I met numerous medical refugees, who were fleeing to Western Europe, in desperate search of the medical support that they otherwise couldn't access in their home countries. Most came from countries where the healthcare system is in shambles. Conflict-torn Afghanistan's medical system is cited by the World Health Organization as one still recovering from decades of neglect and lack of adequate funding. The country is facing a chronic shortage of knowledgeable health staff, working in ramshackle facilities scattered unevenly around the country. Syria and Iraq are facing similar problems. This added a new layer to the diversity of people traveling to Europe and their needs, as they are often portrayed by European politicians and media outlets only as young men seeking employment opportunities or social benefits in Western Europe. However, it also begged the question of whether or not the medical system in the European Union, currently facing fundamental problems in many Member States, would be able to cover these individuals' health needs, without jeopardizing European citizens' access to treatment. Advertisement An Afghani married couple were traveling for their only child, a three-year-old girl suffering from leukemia, in an effort to access the treatment that she needed to survive. The mother, who spoke good English, requested to be referred to the Red Cross doctors, as she wanted to give blood transfusions to her daughter, who was weakened by both the demanding travel conditions and the decreased attention to her needs since being on the move. The mother could perform the blood transfusion, as they had the same blood type. The camp doctors did not possess the equipment needed to make the blood transfer on-site, but recommended going by ambulance to a hospital in Skopje, Macedonia's capital, situated an hour away from the center. After deliberating with her husband for several hours, the woman decided to continue the journey to Serbia, where she said they would stop to take care of the transfusions. They wanted to leave before sunset to avoid the dangers of traveling at night and be in the company of their friends, rather than remain behind by themselves. An Iraqi man going to Germany hoped to get a prosthetic leg to replace the one that he had lost during an ISIS-bombing at his place of worship. He was an Yazidi, an ancient religion, which integrates elements of Islam with Zoroastrianism, Persia's ancient religion, and Mithraism, a religion originating from the Eastern Mediterranean. Misunderstood and targeted for centuries as devil worshipers, the Yazidis have more recently become a target of ISIS, determined to wipe them out. The man that I talked considered himself fortunate to have survived the ISIS-bombing that destroyed his leg, as many others lost their lives. He decided to leave the country, even though he realized that the trek would be even more difficult than for most. He had chosen Germany as his country of destination, because one of his sisters had been living there for the past 15 years. He was hoping that there, he would not only be able to practice his religion freely, but would rebuild his life with the prosthetic leg. While the medical refugees' plight is comprehensible, are European countries able and willing to cover these health costs, which could be rather substantial? In 2014, French doctors in Lyon accused refugees and migrants for coming to France to intentionally exploit the country's medical system, stressing that the national budget for healthcare was not limitless. Advertisement The French physicians' position is indicative of the growing hostility toward these groups of people, who are frequently depicted as coming to plunder Europe's resources, including its medical system. Although the doctors' accusation of exploitation from people with life-threatening conditions is discriminatory and untenable, their concern about funding is nevertheless valid. In a Europe, where the population is aging rapidly, the decreasing number of active workers, who through taxation are the main contributors to the healthcare system, could mean insufficient resources to even adequately cover the healthcare costs of retirees. Life in the Boomer Lane is many things to may people: wife, mother, grandmother, friend, cousin, niece, Marshalls and TJ Maxx shopper, and now orgasm expert. She acquired this last moniker when she was called by two friends yesterday evening, who each got on the line to "ask her advice about something." Because LBL gives advice freely, whether or not she is familiar with the subject matter being asked about, she was ready with answers. But when her friends wanted to know if she was alone in the room first, she became concerned. Her thoughts went immediately to one of several topics: anything illegal anything immoral a political analysis of the results of the Nevada primary It turns out that both friends were calling with questions regarding orgasms. Each was experiencing physical pain when orgasming. The pain was located in different areas of their bodies, other than at the actual site of the orgasm. LBL, although no stranger to orgasms, was a complete novice at giving advice about them. She wasn't able to help them, unless to ask "Did you Google it?" Since that call, she has realized that, she, herself is capable of Googling "orgasm" and using what she has learned for the edification and enjoyment of her readers. So here goes: According to Woman's Day, "Orgasm becomes easier with age ... As an example, while 61 percent of women ages 18 to 24 experienced orgasm the last time they had sex, 65 percent of women in their 30s did and about 70 percent of women in their 40s and 50s did." This should comfort many of LBL's readers. And, as LBL's friends are 20 years older than the women surveyed, she can assume that their ability to orgasm is off the charts. Advertisement Senior Planet had an article about older women and orgasm. The following is one of the issues they responded to: "My husband and I are in our late 60s. I still have a strong libido and love having sex at least twice a week. My problem is that these days, I take so long to orgasm. I take bioidentical hormones and we use lubricant, so sex is comfortable. I feel sexy and eager, but I just can't "bring it home" in a reasonable amount of time. This morning it took an hour!" While LBL can certainly relate to the issue of delayed response time to climax, she has personally chosen to use her time to better advantage. She expends a much shorter time attempting to achieve results. If she fails, she moves on to more lucrative pursuits. During the time that this woman was diddling away, LBL can do several loads of laundry, write a blog post, and discover that she is out of microwave popcorn. PsychCentral has reported in a study in which the median age was 67, that "... the likelihood of sexual activity declined with increasing age. But more than two-thirds of the sexually active women reported that they achieve orgasm most of the time or always. Interestingly, the youngest and oldest women in the study reported the highest frequency of orgasm satisfaction." Now we have something to chew on. Assuming that the span of ages went from 50+ to 80+, there are some mighty happy 80-year-olds out there. Of course, this doesn't help the friends of LBL any more than the other studies have, because their issue isn't not achieving orgasm and they are not yet 80-years-old. Spine-health reports the following issue from a reader: "I have had intensifying back pain for 10 years. I have two disc bulges and an extra lumbar vertebra. Recently I've started having pins and needles in my legs and yesterday morning when I started having an orgasm the pain was so intense in both legs and feet that I almost wanted to call it off." Advertisement LBL had to read this several times. How does one call off an orgasm? Wouldn't this be akin to calling off giving birth when the labor pains became too severe? Or calling off the fall as one went hurtling off a cliff? While appealing in theory, LBL isn't sure how this would work in reality. WebMD reports "I had the same phenomena happen to me last year. Now I do not experience the symptom anymore but my curiosity is still not sated. I first realized I was having painful orgasms when I awoke from a dream having an orgasm that was quickly infiltrated by a painful painful (sic) cramping sensation in my pelvic region. I kept my body as stiff/still as I could to ride out the pain." LBL has never dreamt of having an orgasm. Most of her dreams are about getting lost. Then she wakes up and goes about her day, getting lost. She has to do something to improve her dreams. Everyday Health has a quote from Shoe Designer to the Stars, Christian Louboutin. Louboutin told British newspaper The Sunday Times that high heels and orgasms have a lot in common. "What is sexual in a high heel is the arch of the foot, because it is exactly the position of a woman's foot when she orgasms," he said. "So putting your foot in a heel, you are putting yourself in a possibly orgasmic situation." LBL won't even touch this one. She invites readers to share their own experiences. Express.co.uk, in an article commemorating National Orgasm Day, says a lot of stuff that doesn't matter because the only important thing here is that there is a National Orgasm Day. Word to those of you who don't have orgasms or who have pain with orgasm, or who have any number of disturbing, unsavory associations with orgasm: Just get yourself a box of chocolates, a pair of really high heels, and a dildo. Throw the dildo out the window. If the shoes bother you, throw them out the window, as well. Just don't toss the chocolate. Eat it. LBL promises you a stellar, pain-free orgasm. Earlier on Huff/Post50: Lady Gaga and Vice President Joe Biden, you gave me hope at the Oscars. Thank you. Biden's introduction of Lady Gaga's performance of "Til It Happens to You" brought full-circle a lot of tireless work by activists, advocates and reform-minded educators. When I turned off the television, I felt real hope that we really can reduce sexual assault and violence on campuses and in our communities. It feels like the right actions are popping up in all the right places. Last week, I was at a meeting hosted by the Office of Women's Health in Washington, D.C. I was invited to join a panel at a professional development event for Health and Human Services employees. These staffers are not directly involved in any programs designed to reduce sexual violence against students, but the highest ranking leaders at HHS and OWH have adopted the premise that every citizen needs basic information about sexual assault and prevention. They are making sure the ones under their watch get that education. Advertisement United States Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy introduced the OWH panel. Dr. Nancy C. Lee, the Deputy Assistant Director of the OWH, organized the event as part of her responsibility for education about violence against women. The fact that these officials attended this meeting of staffers gave me hope. Nothing changes in organizations or in society unless championed by respected leaders. Next, Biden came to the Oscars and my hope ratcheted up even more. He asked us all to make a pledge to stop sexual violence and assault. To paraphrase, Biden said: Tonight, I am asking you, millions of Americans, to join me and take the pledge that says, I will intervene in situations where consent has not or cannot be given. We must change the culture. So no abused woman or man ever has to ask themselves again what did I do wrong. Biden nailed reality for all of us -- campus leaders, students, government officials, parents and neighbors. Sexual violence is ultimately prevented by individual, institutional and social change. It is on all of us. Students should never be placed in harm's way. It has been easy to cast blame on college campuses. They are highly visible and vulnerable due to systemic failures to assess campus climate, infuse prevention strategies and operate with transparency and accountability. And, Biden made it clear that we have a much larger cultural and, indeed, familial dilemma to address. Research indicates that students arrive on college campuses with little or no prior education on consent, sexual ethics and how to engage in healthy sexual and non-sexual relationships. It is time for serious talks at home and in our churches about the prevailing cultural and social attitudes and practices that objectify women, sexual and gender minorities. Look up the words misogyny and patriarchy and unpack them with your family at the dinner table. Advertisement Consider which television shows and movies your family regularly watches. If the television shows and movies that you like to watch are those that demean women, sexual and gender minorities, your child will not leave these interests at the entry gate to the campus. Watch The Hunting Ground with your family. Check into the social media sites and downloads that your children are frequenting. What do they teach about sexual assault and violence? If the only talk about healthy relationships that students have with parents is about preventing pregnancy or STDs, they don't have bench strength when they encounter the first campus situation fueled with peer pressure to demonstrate sexual prowess and the disorienting effects of alcohol. When you are sifting through the college applications your teenager is considering, look for the detail about sexual assault and prevention policies and procedures. Talk about them with your child. When you take them to orientation and check into a dorm, find out when the first information about these policies and procedures is shared. And, check the OCR list of investigations of campuses and ask questions about them before you sign on the dotted line. Advertisement As the Executive Director of ACPA (College Student Educators International), I work within a community of professionals who believe it is fair and necessary to require any person who lives on, works on or learns on a campus, to participate in the minimum education necessary to understand informed consent and the policies and resources on campus, healthy relationships and sexuality, the roots of sexual violence and empowering actions (including bystander intervention). We need your help as citizens and parents to reinforce this message. For students it is essential that this training is integrated throughout the entire student experience (pre-arrival, orientation, residence halls, student leader training, returning students, Greek Life). It must be presented in varying formats with understanding of adult learning styles, messaged consistently and tailored for specific communities (athletes, Greek life, study away, men, LGBTQ+, communities of color, international students). And, it must be inclusive of multiple and intersecting identities. You can ask your campus leaders if this is happening and, if not, why not? All of us -- government, families, non-profits and higher education... There is a story in our family lore that during a contentious presidential campaign a few decades ago my father refused to drive his mother, my grandmother, to the polling station on election day. She was voting for the opposing candidate and he didn't want her to cancel out his vote. Though contentious at the time, it is a story that still evokes laughter in our family each time it is retold. And don't worry, grandma eventually got a friend to drive her to the polls. In recent years, however, political differences have become less to laugh at and harder to shrug off. Studies show that political polarization has increased dramatically in America over the last twenty years -- even within families. Today 23% of liberals and 30% conservatives say they would be unhappy if an immediate family member married someone who held a different political belief. Politics have become increasingly tense in families, churches, neighborhoods, and across social media. Many have decided its better just not to talk about it at all, while some have become even more vehement in their rhetoric. Advertisement The 2016 presidential election cycle, along with the new vacancy on the Supreme Court created by the recent death of Justice Antonin Scalia, has only exacerbated these tensions. As candidates on right and left tap into the fears and anger of disaffected and disenfranchised voters, some candidates have engaged in othering, fear mongering, and race baiting -- the political legacy of "wedge politics," dividing people according race, class, religion, and ethnicity, and, as Michelle Alexander traces in The New Jim Crow the pitting of poor whites against African-Americans. In 2016, this wedge has not only fractured the electorate; some would argue it has fractured our political system itself. In his two letters to the church in Corinth, Paul addresses a notoriously contentious community, which frequently divided its people by class, ethnicity, and the perceived value of their spiritual giftedness. They even infamously divided people out at the Eucharist (1 Cor 11). In response, Paul urges those believers to engage in a "ministry of reconciliation." Recounting how we have been reconciled to God through the death and resurrection of Jesus, he implores the Corinthians to be reconciled to one another, "From now on," he writes, "we regard no one from a human point of view...if anyone is in Christ, there is a new creation." Truth be told, we have a difficult time these days even seeing one another from a human point of view -- seeing each other's humanity and as fellow pilgrims on our earthly pilgrimage -- rather than a caricature of a political platform or a potential threat. More than ever, we need to rediscover our common humanity -- but Paul calls us further. He calls the Corinthians and us to regard one another as beloved children, faithful and flawed, of the same God -- a God whose chief work in Christ on the cross was reconciliation. The story of the prodigal son in Luke 15 is the quintessential story of reconciliation in the New Testament. It is the story of a father that has two sons. The younger son asks for his inheritance while his father is still alive, a grave insult. Yet, the father grants it and the prodigal son blows it all on wine, women, and song. He winds up bankrupt, hungry, and feeding slop to pigs. When that slop begins to look appetizing, he decides to return to his father. For, he reasons, it would be better to be a servant in his father's house than here. Advertisement As he walks up the path to his father's house, full of trepidation, the father runs out to greet him, embraces him, clothes his with a robe and ring, and throws him a party, restoring him to relationship to the father and household. It is an extraordinary image of a reconciling and forgiving God. And yet all is not well in the father's household. The older, dutiful son resents his brother -- his audacity to claim the inheritance, his foolishness in wasting it all, and the father's response of welcome and forgiveness when he returned home. He complains to his father, "Listen! I have been a model son for you. I've obeyed your commands, and you've never even thrown me a dinner party, let alone a celebration like you're throwing for this prodigal of yours." Brother Curtis Almquist suggests that the elder son suffered from what Almquist calls "presumptuous sin." He writes, "There is [a] kind of presumptuous sin [that] assume[s] a kind of perpetual 'stuckness' about another person. Let's say you know something about this person's past - something they did or said, or how they 'typically' acted a day ago or a week ago or a year ago or twenty years ago - and you assume that this person cannot change and will not change, in part because you could not countenance it. You wouldn't allow them to change if they wanted to. You freeze them. We have enormous power to condemn and imprison others by keeping them in the prison of their own past. Guarding that prison door. Keeping them locked up. Or forbidding someone to change is like locking them in a prison. The real tragedy is that both your prisoner and you, the prison guard, are in prison. Both of you are locked up." Advertisement Perhaps our polarization and the growing animosity it has fostered is the result of this kind of presumptuous sin. We have locked one another cages based on political labels. And yet, Paul tells that our fundamental humanity and identity as a child of God defies and transcends such categorization. We must end the mass incarceration, both real and spiritual, that we have inflicted upon each other. We must heed the prophet's call to "proclaim liberty to the captives, "and release to the prisoners" (Isa 61:1). Perhaps in this way we can realize Paul's call to be "ambassadors for Christ." It is unclear at the end of the story of the prodigal son whether the elder son reconciles with him. In this book The Return of the Prodigal Son, Henri Nouwen writes, "Unlike a fairy tale, the parable provides no happy ending. Instead it leaves us face to face with one of life's hardest spiritual choices: to trust or not to trust in God's all forgiving love." Can we trust the power of that forgiveness for ourselves, our world, and even our perceived enemies? Can we move from mass incarceration to a ministry of reconciliation? We must. For the sake of our families, our nation, and our world. And for the sake of Christ. For, as Paul writes, "the love of Christ urges us on" (2 Cor 5:14). Advertisement Bible Study Questions 1. What would it look like for you or your faith community to enact a "ministry of reconciliation," -- meeting others again for the first time -- in your home, church, and neighborhood. 2. Who do you most identify with in the story of the prodigal son -- the father, the prodigal, or the elder son? Why? 3. "We have enormous power to condemn and imprison others by keeping them in the prison of their own past. ... The real tragedy is that both your prisoner and you, the prison guard, are in prison. Both of you are locked up." Who, specifically, do you need to forgive and set free? TEHRAN, IRAN - FEBRUARY 26: Iranians display their ink-stained fingers after casting their ballots for both parliamentary elections and the Assembly of Experts at a polling station in Tehran on February 26, 2016. (Photo by Fatemeh Bahrami/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images) Iran can still surprise. Despite thousands of candidate disqualifications, tens of millions of Iranians flocked to the polls to vote in their 2016 elections. Turnout has surpassed 60 percent. Victory by candidates aligned with President Hassan Rouhani already exceeds expectations. Thus far, there have been no allegations of cheating. This begs the question: What just happened? Votes are still being counted, but the preliminary results highlight a few key points to bear in mind going forward. Iranian society is engaged It would appear that a majority of Iranians inside Iran disagree with the people outside Iran who said these elections don't matter. A variety of factors drive Iranian voters to the polls, but two are often overlooked. Advertisement For starters, demographics no doubt played an important role in turnout. Young voters around the world tend to be more eager about voting, and Iranians are no exception. Iran's large youth population means there were millions of eligible first-time voters, and many young Iranians vote in order to avoid being turned down for employment or other government-related benefits. Having a stamp in their identity papers showing they participated in the electoral process is at best a show of patriotism and at worst, erring on the side of caution. But perhaps above all else, these elections reflect Iranian society's continued desire to bring about change through gradual evolution rather than radical upheaval. They are demanding pragmatic and democratic reform within the existing system. No one is calling for a revolution, and a diverse socioeconomic swath of Iranian society rejects foreign interference in its politics. Many Iranians inside Iran only need to watch satellite television broadcast out of Los Angeles to be reminded that their most viable vehicle for change remains indigenous. Showing up and voting sent a powerful message to the outside world that Iranian problems require Iranian solutions. The government cannot disregard popular will The Iranian government and its top political players take the electoral behavior of Iranian society very seriously -- particularly after the contested 2009 presidential elections. Since then, many (but not all) of Iran's political elite have tried to make adjustments to at least partially address the population's political, economic and social aspirations. That's a big reason why economic change played such a prominent role across the political spectrum in these elections. Rouhani's coalition emphasized the need to take the next step in Iran's economic recovery after the nuclear deal, while hardliners tried to play up the president's alleged economic failures. In many ways, these elections were a referendum on the economy -- the perceived injustice and mismanagement of it, and Rouhani's promises to make improvements in a post-sanctions environment. Articulating a platform of social justice, anti-corruption and government efficiency seemingly appealed to many economically disillusioned voters who have long been fed up with shortcomings on all three fronts. The level of voter turnout that Rouhani's broad-based political coalition was able to galvanize shows that issues such as democracy and human rights remain important, but economic stability is the top priority. Advertisement Rouhani's efforts to build consensus received a boost at the ballot box. ... Iranian voters have empowered him to test the limits. Iranian voters also know that a functional relationship between the executive and legislative branches of government is necessary for Rouhani to fulfill his economic promises. That is why prominent hardliners such as former parliamentary speaker Gholam-Ali Haddad-Adel; current chairman of Iran's Assembly of Experts, Mohammad Yazdi; and current Assembly of Experts member Mohammad-Taqi Mesbah-Yazdi woke up on Sunday morning with their first hangover. Voting them out of office sent a powerful message in support of the country's direction since Rouhani's election in 2013. Rouhani is building a coalition of the willing There is a propensity to focus on the heavy political infighting amongst Iran's political elite, but the reality is that there has never been a period in the nearly four decade history of the Islamic Republic in which its leadership was not engaged in cutthroat politics. Even Ayatollah Khomeini -- whose authority was undisputed in the immediate aftermath of the 1979 revolution -- could not enforce 100 percent obedience. Iran's political system incorporates a wide array of actors, aims and interests, and Rouhani (with massive support from former Presidents Khatami and Rafsanjani) has shown an unprecedented ability to cultivate unity in ways that facilitate positive political outcomes. Rouhani's efforts to build consensus received a boost at the ballot box. Iran's multiple spheres of influence, power networks and political coalitions make it impossible for any top official -- including the leader, Ali Khamenei -- to make major decisions absent broad buy-in. Alliances and animosities within Iran's political elite shift frequently, but Rouhani's short-to-medium-term prospects for holding this coalition together are solid. Prior to these elections, Iran's parliament and Assembly of Experts were dominated by hardliners. Coalition maintenance will likely slow down his ability to deliver on campaign promises, but the progress that is made will have consensus backing. This highlights the adaptive capacity of Iran's system and the lack of any viable alternative power center. Knowing this, Iranian voters have empowered Rouhani to test the limits. Advertisement Political insiders remain key to shaping the future Iran's political insiders matter more than ever. Not only are they bound together by layers of family and financial ties, but also a shared desire to preserve the system -- albeit with divergent views on what that should entail. Popular dissatisfaction inside Iran has matured to the point where organized opposition is galvanized and channeled through the ballot box despite the mass disqualifications of prospective candidates. This coherent challenge to the system now forces Iranian officials to address their own internal contradictions in way not seen during the life of the Islamic Republic. Voters have once again reaffirmed that indigenous change without bloodshed -- however slow it may be -- is preferable to the chaos, death and destruction that plagues many of Iran's neighbors. Iranians know they deserve better, but understandably fear the consequences of instability. To that end, they vote not to reshape the structure of the system, but rather to yield important changes in political alliances, policy direction and personnel. That, in turn, creates greater expectations within Iranian society that election promises are upheld. This will not please desk warriors and armchair revolutionaries in Washington DC who believe America should overthrow authoritarian governments that refuse bowing to U.S. power, but it will be of great interest to the sober, level-headed American officials currently making Iran policy in Obama's White House. Extremists still exist in both chambers, but a more diverse range of views will now be sitting at the decision-making table in Iran. Prior to these elections, Iran's parliament and Assembly of Experts were dominated by hardliners. Extremists still exist in both chambers, but that blurs the more important point: A more diverse range of views will now be sitting at the decision-making table in Iran. Politicians that have united as part of Rouhani's coalition were at each other's throats 10 to 15 years ago. Advertisement This reinforces rules number one and two of Iranian politics: Iran has politics and trying to predict Iranian politics can be a very humbling experience. That's a key reason why millions of Iranians inside Iran chose to hold their noses and vote. It remains to be seen how many people outside Iran will respect the will of the people and craft policy preferences accordingly. "In USC student government, where are the women?" This was a Los Angeles Times news headline the year I ran for Student Body Vice President at the University of Southern California. The article suggested winning an election at our university is next to impossible unless the candidate is male and holds membership in a fraternity. It's a reasonable deduction -- especially when we look at the past decade: Not a single woman ran for the position of Student Body President. When I made up my mind to run for President the next year, some recommended I choose a white, Greek-affiliated male to pull votes. But, I believed wholeheartedly my female running mate and I had the best qualifications for the position. I was not about to let our gender hold us back from at least trying. When we won, I knew the honor of being the "first dual-female ticket to win in PAC-12 history" mattered because it signaled to other young women they could do it, too. In the most recent campus election, two dual-male tickets contested for the position of President and Vice President. Although I believe the gentlemen who won have the capacity to make a difference on campus given their skills, I am concerned we will revert to the trend we saw plaguing USC for the past decade. I am concerned it will take another ten years before a woman even tries to run at my university. Advertisement So, before I leave office, I want to remind other young women of this lesson I learned during my time in college: Don't let your gender hold you back. And before I graduate, I want to stress the importance of female leadership in student government. I know there are critics of this argument. We see it in our current national election cycle. "Gender shouldn't matter." "I'm not going to elect just any woman to office." "Having a uterus doesn't qualify you to be President." (Shoutout to Killer Mike!) "Is student government even relevant?" Student government leaders often deal with pressing issues such as sexual assault prevention, college affordability, mental health and more. So while some may think we're winning off kitschy slogans to then cruise through our terms, the reality is much different. Student government politics reflect the dire state of gender parity in national politics. Celia Wright, former Undergraduate Student Government President at Ohio State, ran the first successful dual-female ticket on her campus. When asked about her thoughts on women in student government, she agreed the lack of female representation is a serious problem. Advertisement "Women are more likely to pursue leadership positions like USG president when they have role models who have done so, to make them believe it's possible to win and to help them see themselves in the role," she said. "It was hard for me while I was running, to even see myself as USG president, when I had no one (at least visually) like myself who I'd seen done it. I'd known it to be a very masculine thing. The last female was seven years before me." Non-profit organizations such as Running Start recognize this problem and have launched initiatives to bridge the gap. At USC, in conjunction with the Jesse M. Unruh Institute for Politics, Panhellenic Council, and the Women's Student Assembly, our Undergraduate Student Government hosted an on-campus training for women to run for higher office. The event, Elect Her, was a space for students to discuss why so few women do run for office and find ways in which to empower one another to reach higher. Although the event did not lead to female contenders in the presidential race, we saw a surge in female involvement in the campus senatorial race. In fact, of the 12 newly elected USG Senators, seven are women. In fact, all of the women who ran for senate this year were elected. MANHATTAN, NEW YORK CITY, UNITED STATES - 2016/02/27: Hundreds of New Yorkers gathered in Union Square Park to rally and march to Zuccotti Park on behalf of Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders which emphasized the needs and aspirations of female voters. (Photo by Andy Katz/Pacific Press/LightRocket via Getty Images) Right-wing populists ascend when three toxic forces converge. First, the economy needs to be really lousy for most citizens. Check. Second, the political system ceases to be able to solve problems and loses legitimacy with regular people. Check. Advertisement Third, some foreign menace causes people to seek shelter in a strongman. Check. Other factors common to successful rightwing populists are these: *They tend to be very good at breaking the rules of conventional political discourse, and at using mass media. *They are not conservatives. They love to use big government to help the masses. More on that in a moment. *They are not accountable to politics as usual. Because of their direct rapport with the folk (or if you like, the volk) their rise suddenly destroys the influence of politicians whose stock in trade is the usual currency of politics -- money, trading favors, cutting deals. The populist doesn't need the pols because he has the people. (In the case of billionaires like Donald Trump and Silvio Berlusconi, they don't need political money, either, since they have their own.) *They trigger cognitive dissonance. Once large numbers of people see a populist outsider as potential savior, it doesn't matter what they say, how much they contradict themselves, how crude they are, or how much their own previous life is at odds with their current role. This is all seen as anti-establishment cred. Advertisement In Berlusconi's case, Italy's instrument of populist anti-corruption rage was himself a corrupt billionaire. It didn't matter. Trump, the scourge of aliens who take American jobs, has imported hundreds. Water off a duck's back. Hitler, calling for the golden-haired resurgence of a racially pure, nordic German Reich, was a swarthy Austrian. Das macht nichts (no problem). More importantly, Hitler was seen as the avenger of the humiliation of the Versailles Treaty and the economic destitution afflicting much of Germany. He vowed to make Germany great again (sound familiar?). That the particulars were an incoherent jumble didn't matter either. He was the man of the hour. And here's the most interesting part. Until he blew it all on a reckless world war, Hitler delivered. I've been reading a fascinating book by the German historian, Gotz Aly, titled Hitler's Beneficiaries. As Aly documents, Hitler expanded the German welfare state. His rearmament and public works programs ended mass unemployment. (Remember, Nazi was an abbreviation for national socialist.) Hitler recycled the plunder looted from Jews and later from countries the Nazis occupied -- to improve living standards of ordinary Germans. He probably could have gotten re-elected, had he not suspended free elections and civil liberties. Historian Aly's point is that ordinary Germans, as willing beneficiaries, were culpable. Advertisement This is not, of course, to excuse Hitler. Or to suggest that Donald Trump is a fascist. Not all rightwing populists are as extreme as Hitler. This brings me to the difference between rightwing populists and conservatives. Far right populists share with today's Republicans a fanatic ultra-nationalism, a scapegoating of foreigners, and a distaste for identity politics. But there are several big differences. Conservatives are intimate allies of Wall Street while populists play on the resentment of Wall Street. Populists tend not to be religious fundamentalists, while rightwing Republicans pander to the religious right. And the Republican right loathes government, while populists are willing to use it. If you think Obama expanded executive power, just wait for President Trump. No wonder Karl Rove, the Koch Brothers, the Bushes and the rest of the Republican elite feel like taking hemlock. Not only does Trump's populism hose away their power, but his appeal demonstrates that the vaunted Republican base, once the issues are unpacked, is a lot less conservative than they imagined. Advertisement Trump has kind words for Social Security and even for single-payer health systems. When Ted Cruz tries to bait him as a big government guy, Trump responds that Cruz would let people die in the streets. Advantage Trump. Turns out that the base actually likes Social Security and Medicare. Trump has been soft on abortion rights; he has hired illegals and scammed students; his numbers don't add up; he's been married three times and is proud of his womanizing -- and the social conservative base doesn't care. Jerry Falwell, Jr., president of Liberty University, a prominent evangelical who has endorsed Trump, said the following to a New York Times reporter: All the social issues -- traditional family values, abortion -- are moot if ISIS blows up some of our cities or if the borders are not fortified. Rank-and-file evangelicals are smarter than many of the leaders. They are trying to save the country and maybe vote on social issues next time. Jesus wept! Which brings me to Bernie Sanders. Left populists, despite the term, have little in common ideologically with rightwing populists, other than a feeling that ordinary people are getting shafted and that government is in the hands of elites. Left populists ride the waves of progressive social movements -- and energize them. Advertisement Unlike Trump, Sanders has a coherent explanation for what ails America, and a drastically different one. Wall Street has far too much power. Working families are not getting their fair share. The people need to take back the government and change the rules, via more progressive taxation, more social investment and more protections of labor. Some people who might vote for Trump might also vote for Sanders, an outsider of a very different kind. But Sanders is increasingly looking like a long shot for the Democratic nomination. And conversely, some voters, especially independents who are attracted to Sanders, could vote for Trump. Thomas Edsall, for one, has challenged the idea that many potential Sanders voters could support Trump. l Yet most polls show that in a head-to-head matchup, Sanders would do better against Trump than Clinton would. And it's not hard to see why. Clinton represents continuity with establishment elite politics; with Wall Street; with ordinary people falling further behind -- the very politics that has so alienated Trump and Sanders voters. By dint of experience and resume, Clinton is one of the most qualified people ever to seek the presidency. In any other year and against almost any other candidate, that might be a plus. But if you asked a computer to design a Democratic candidate who'd be the wrong standard-bearer against Trump, it could hardly improve on Hillary Clinton. Advertisement And if you think the Rubio-Cruz-Trump slugfest looks like a playground food-fight, just wait for the Trump-Clinton general election. Trump, seemingly, is vulnerable on wild inconsistencies that will be easy marks for Democrats and the media. But for every Trump liability, Clinton has her own blemishes that Trump will wail on. A recent New York Times editorial calling on her to release the transcripts of her Wall Street speeches was more withering than anything Bernie Sanders said. In Massachusetts, where I live, the Democratic primary is on (super) Tuesday. Many of my Democrat friends are agonizing over the following conundrum: Vote for Clinton and bring this contest to an early close so that Democrats can be unified while Republicans are still throwing pies at each other? Or vote for Sanders, either in the fleeting hope that he might yet win, or at least to signal Clinton that she needs to sound more populist. The trouble is, at age 68 and with a long and well-documented record, Clinton is well past the age where she can re-invent herself with any credibility. It's hard to imagine what might rouse the enthusiasm of the Sanders base for a Clinton candidacy (unless perhaps Elizabeth Warren is on the ticket). Republicans such as Karl Rove may be ready to jump out the nearest window over the destruction of the Republican coalition of social conservatives and Wall Street conservatives that he helped build. But though Trump is not Rove's kind of guy -- maybe because he is not Rove's kind of guy -- he could still give Clinton a close race in November. Advertisement It's only February. God only knows what this election year will still bring. -- Robert Kuttner is co-editor of The American Prospect and professor at Brandeis University's Heller School. His latest book is Debtors' Prison: The Politics of Austerity Versus Possibility. March is Women's History Month. I have been reticent to call myself a feminist. I am all for girl power and empowerment. I identify with cultural differential feminists. The problem was that I still wonder whether the feminist circle of sisterhood can incorporate the needs of women of color. The Women's Rights movement in America has been tied to the emancipation and Civil Rights movement. To defeat talks of emancipation or dismantling "separate but equal" policies, politicians would tack on a women's right provision as a prerequisite or negotiating point. Therefore, it pitted women's rights against equality for blacks. Unfortunately, equality for women did not necessarily translate into equality for women of color, especially black women. Advertisement White women earn 78% of their white male counterparts. Black and Hispanic women earn even less, 64% and 54% respectively. According to the #ProjectDiane study, "Over 70% of Black households are led by Black women, yet Black women earn only 89% of what Black men earn, and 64% of what white men earn. Nearly two thirds of all non-farming Black-owned businesses are led by Black women, yet Black women received .002% of all venture funding in the past 5 years." Our contributions to the movement and concerns were pushed aside until they become problems for white women. When black women speak out on inequality or injustice, we are labeled "angry black woman." When a white woman speaks out, she is brave for taking a stand. Amandla Stenberg spoke about cultural appropriation, calling out the Kardashians. She was labeled an angry black girl. Yet, when Rowan Blanchard spoke on the same issue, she was labeled forward thinking and wise beyond her years. The hypocrisy is repugnant. Where were feminists when black teenage girls were accosted by police at a swim party and thrown like a rag doll in school for using a cell phone? Where was the outrage? Like Anarcha and Henrietta Lacks, black women still receive unequal treatment in healthcare. Elementary school black girls are disciplined harsher than black and white boys. When black mothers cried out for rehab instead of prison for drug addicted children, zero tolerance was instituted. Now that heroin has taken a foothold in white suburbia, calls for rehab and gentler sentencing policies are being embraced. Where were these voices when black mothers asked for the same thing? In 2008, Hillary Clinton cautioned not to vote for Obama simply because he was black. Fast forward to 2016. Hillary and her supporters say that as a woman if I don't vote for her than I am going to hell. Where were all of these feminists when Sandra Bland died? Where were they when thirteen black women were targeted by a police officer and raped because he assumed no one would believe them? Where were my feminist sisters claiming we would go to hell if we did not support these women?! Advertisement I had to laugh when people called Jennifer Lawrence "bratty" and "spoiled" for talking about the pay disparity in Hollywood. I guess that is the white version of calling her "angry black woman" for speaking out and standing up. JLaw, welcome to a taste of our world. I am not saying the inequality is right, not at all. Rather, in the words of Chris Rock, "Black women get paid less than everybody in Hollywood." Can some of the feminist writers and directors write roles for women of color that does not include the stereotypical vixen, slut, mammy, drug addict, or maid? If Tiger Lily and Pocahontas can be played by white women, why can't black women crossover? Mara Brock Akil, Shonda Rhimes, Courtney Kemp Agboh, and Ava Duvernay cannot be the only women writing good roles for women of color. I am down for female empowerment and lifting other sisters up. But is feminism down with me? I do not feel that in its sisterhood that I would enjoy equity of equality. I have experienced enough injustice as a woman of color than to be told to sit in the back of the bus for feminism and wait my turn. "That man over there says that women need to be helped into carriages, and lifted over ditches, and to have the best place everywhere. Nobody ever helps me into carriages, or over mud-puddles, or gives me any best place! And ain't I a woman?" - Sojourner Truth This Saturday morning, I opened my laptop to find an unusually high number of anti-Islamic posts. As usual, these were not well thought-out refutations of Islamic doctrines or analyses of historical events in Muslim countries. These were base, simplistic, images attached to anti-Islamic catch phrases. Though I usually refrain from voicing strong disagreement on Facebook, out of respect for everyone's right to express who they are and what they think, being inundated with so many of these posts at once made me confident that I had to speak up. With so much upheaval in the Middle East, I always expect a certain amount of controversy and debate to take place on the web. Debate and discussion are, after all, a great way for people to create solutions for problems and face challenges. However, the repertoire of anti-Islamic memes surfacing on the Internet does not reflect the dignity of a debate or discussion. These memes say one thing only: my hate for you is greater than my knowledge about you. To the people cheering on the ISIS-flag toilet paper roll: This is offensive, but not because me or anyone else is supporting ISIS. This is offensive because ISIS - an evil and disgusting group of thugs - has hijacked the most sacred words of the Islamic faith and put them on their flag. The image on that flag might symbolize ISIS to you, but " La ilaha illa Allah, Muhammadun Rasul Allah" is not their phrase. It is the called the Shahadah and it is the testament of faith and the most essential expression of Muslim belief. It says "there is no god but God, and Muhammad is the messenger of God." Advertisement It is deplorable that anyone would cheer-on as people use the name of God on a roll of toilet paper. In the Jewish tradition the name of God is so sacred that it is not written completely or even uttered in full. In the Christian tradition, Jesus is the Lord and Savior. How do you think people would feel if the image of him, a sacred and divine figure, was used in such a humiliating way? No one would make these jokes if the sacred figures from other religions were disgraced that way. There is certainly great reason for everyone to be emotional when confronted with the evil that is ISIS. We should hate them and detest all of the horrible and inhumane things they do. However, I think it is a much stronger message of condemnation to not allow ISIS and their ugliness to seep into our perception of Muslims. Throughout the world and in the West, Muslims reject all that ISIS stands for. We should honour the right of Muslims to claim their own sacred images. It is a greater sign of our nobility and strength if we can continue to show respect for Muslims and what is sacred to them. We must prove that we will not conflate the horrors of ISIS with all of Islam, much less the faith of the many devout and peaceful Muslims who are among our fellow Americans, Canadians, and global citizens. To the people posting "Sharia Law has no place on our soils" with pictures of women wearing Star Wars style, robotic, full-face coverings: Advertisement First, Sharia law does not mandate that women should cover their entire faces. When you make such statements and attach them to images of mechanical and inhuman looking "women," you are really promoting a discourse that makes Muslims wholly other. Second, Sharia law is a vast and complex body of scholarship, which Muslims have debated for centuries. There are, in our world, certain fundamentalist groups, who do extreme things and cite "Sharia Law" as their reason, but Sharia law is more of a continuous scholarly debate than a tyrannical set of unchanging principles. Sharia law means different things to different people. For some Muslims, it plays absolutely no role in their daily lives, for others it is merely used as a model for the daily prayers, while for others it provides social, economic, and cultural guidance. The sort of "Sharia" invoked by states such as Saudi Arabia for social regulation has little to do with the practical religious ethos, which serves as a guide for different Muslim individuals throughout the world. It's up to you to become educated about Islam before sharing these types of memes. They advance simplistic notions of an entire world religion and diverse cultural heritages. They serve no purpose in the war on extremism. Demeaning and negating sacred Islamic symbols without understanding them can only be harmful in this process. I just finished walking 750 kilometers (470 miles) along the Camino de Santiago. This is an ancient pilgrimage with roots going back over a millennium and was one of the three most important Christian pilgrimages in medieval Europe, alongside those to Jerusalem and Rome. For various political and social reasons, it fell out of favor in the modern age and by the early twentieth century almost no one walked "The Way" (as it is often called). Since the 1980s, however, numbers have gradually increased to the point where there are now over 200,000 people making the pilgrimage every year. Walking the Camino is an inspiring experience for many, and my recent walk has inspired me to think more about the need for a broader experience of pilgrimage, done in ways that might foster interreligious connections. As it happened, during my first few days walking The Way, Pope Francis issued a video message in support of interfaith dialogue. This comes at a time when numerous groups have been working hard at just such a thing, including Eboo Patel's Interfaith Youth Core, the Interfaith Center of New York, and countless smaller groups. Interfaith is in the air. Yet, I also think we need to move beyond interfaith "dialogue," which tends to remain verbal and cerebral, and move toward the physical activities of religious practices, including pilgrimage. We don't merely need to talk together, we also need interfaith activities, interfaith eating, interfaith art exhibitions, and interfaith walking. Advertisement The fact is, most major religious traditions around the world have some form of pilgrimage built into the fabric of the tradition itself. Japanese Buddhists might follow in the way of the Buddhist monk Kukai and travel around to the 88 shrines on the island of Shikoku. Every three or four years (depending on astronomical alignments) millions of people from Hindu traditions walk to participate in the Kumbh Mela. With the destruction of the Second Temple in Jerusalem, the three pilgrimage festivals of Judaism ceased to be practiced in geographical ways, but more local pilgrimages are made, for example, in Uman, Ukraine, undertaken by Breslov Hasidic Jews. And the Hajj to Mecca continues to be made by millions of Muslims every year. In spite of the Camino de Santiago being a Christian pilgrimage, and much of it continuing to be overseen by the Roman Catholic Church, thousands of people do it for more general "spiritual" reasons, and others for reasons of tourism and/or health. One could argue that the Camino already is an interfaith pilgrimage because there are so many people from so many walks of life who do it. On my own journey, I met Korean Buddhists, Mexican and Italian Catholics, Scandinavian and Korean Protestants, and a lot of the unaffiliated varieties (agnostic, atheist, lapsed, and nothing-in-particular) from all over the world. Even so, we need to be honest and realize that many of the monuments along the Camino, including images of Santiago (St James) himself, are often promoted as symbols of victory over the Moors, the Berber and Arabic Muslims who ruled much of the Iberian Peninsula for centuries. Saint James was the apostle of Jesus, and historically was key in bringing Christianity to Iberia. Yet, he also was co-opted by groups struggling for power in Iberia and he became "Santiago Matamoros," St. James the Moor Slayer. The Camino is littered with statues and paintings memorializing the Christian usurping of Muslim controlled lands, often with a sword-wielding Santiago on horseback, trampling Moors under hoof. Indeed, historically speaking, the Camino was a vital way by which small Christian groups in the north of Spain rallied political, religious, and military support from other Christian lands of western Europe and began what they ideologically termed the "reconquest." Advertisement In the midst of recent critical controversies about renaming streets and university buildings, tearing down old statues and monuments because of racist, fascist, or controversial histories, we might rethink the Camino de Santiago along similar lines. If the Camino were to be a place for strong interreligious activity, some of the monuments might have to be located within a different understanding of history. I'm not one to advocate for iconoclasm or censorship, and I do believe there are various ways to contextualize the statues, paintings, and narratives within a more educated interreligious history. This too could be part of the interfaith practice, and part of the dialog. Such retellings of the dominant history stories would not be impossible to achieve since the history of Spain and the Iberian Peninsula includes the realities of Muslims, Christians, and Jews living together. The Muslim city of Cordoba in Andalusia was a major center of world knowledge. The late Yale historian Maria Rosa Menocal delivered an excellent background for this in her 2002 book "The Ornament of the World: How Muslims, Jews, and Christians Created a Culture of Tolerance in Medieval Spain." All this is one of the reasons Imam Feisal Abdul Rauf chose to call his bridge-building, multi-faith project, the "Cordoba Initiative." There have been attempts at interreligious pilgrimage, including one along part of the Camino de Santiago, another that was inspired by a trek on the Camino, and a lot of events and tours that use the term "pilgrimage," but are quite different in kind. I'm encouraged by these efforts, though more can be done. There is certainly nothing wrong with what gets called "interfaith dialogue." But I suggest that we might find quite different results when we walk together, feeling pains in the ankles and knees, limping from blisters, and becoming overwhelmed from time to time by heat, thirst, and hunger. Then, to help each other along the way, to offer a spare bandage, knee brace, sip of water, or an orange. And at the end of the day to sit together and share stories of the road. Talking becomes secondary to physical experience. These are the kind of body-mind connections that have been generated on the Camino and that keeps hundreds of thousands of people coming every year. The amazing thing about a pilgrimage is that very little top-down structure is needed. Togetherness and community happen organically, implicitly, on the way. There were some lovely, moving moments in the memorial service of Concepcion Picciotto at Luther's Place Church on Saturday. Concepcion is known -- with William Thomas, who died a few years ago -- for leading what is apparently the longest protest in U.S. history: Against nuclear weapons in Lafayette Park, in front of the White House. She died last month. As WTOP -- the local news station -- noted today: "Picciotto's nuke vigil became a permanent fixture across from the White House for five consecutive presidents, including President Barack Obama, but not one of the presidents ever spoke to her." Advertisement Tom Siemer, with trembling hands holding the microphone, sobbed "I built nuclear weapons for 23 years" and then that Concepcion "was so unselfish" -- as she literally died to the end for peace, with failing health, virtually homeless, continuing the vigil. She was almost like a protester who immolates oneself, but in slow motion. At the memorial service, the speakers included former CIA man Ray McGovern who noted the Washington Post's apparent proclivity for questioning Concepcion's sanity, and asked who was the mad one here given the Post's apparent view that her desire to prevent nuclear war was at best quaint. Her lawyer, who spoke first and long, did some of the same, but seemed at one point to frame the nuclear threat stemming from the doctrine of MAD, mutually assured destruction, as a simple relic of the Cold War. He almost echoed a patronizing tone that one might hear from the Post, referring to his arguments with her, barely disguising an eye roll. There were glimmers of Concepcion's radicalness certainly during the service -- she wasn't outright cooped into a banal liberal symbol as Martin Luther King often has been, but, critically, the word "Israel" was not uttered at the memorial in the church. This was incredible since it was hard to go three minutes talking with Concepcion without her talking about Israel -- either its crimes or the incredible threat posed by its unacknowledged nuclear weapons. Her work stressed things that so few do: Israel is perhaps the greatest threat because it has a massive nuclear arsenal, refuses to sign the Nuclear Non Proliferation Treaty, uses violence with incredible impunity and it is an expansionist settler colonial state. And Concepcion was not -- as some, including Caitlin Gibson of the Washington Post have referred to her as -- an anti nuclear "proliferation" activist. She was for disarmament. Concepcion was clear: "Live by the bomb, die by the bomb." Her point was the U.S. and other nuclear powers live by the bomb and must stop. She was about disarming the current nuclear weapons states; not simply preventing proliferation of nuclear weapons to more states. After all, it is largely the policy of the U.S. government that current nuclear weapons states should maintain them and others should be denied them. The U.S. government occasionally does wage or threaten wars over this issue. Advertisement Concepcion focusing on Israel was at times even jarring even to me -- a Palestinian American -- when I'd talk to her. Don't take my word for it, look up some videos of her. She doesn't go long before mentioning Israel. And if you think it through, for very good reason. The word "Israel" was finally uttered from the microphone -- after a hundred or so people left the church and went to the site of her long-standing protest in front of the White House, setup there photo-op style by Medea Benjamin of CodePink. It was left to Simin Royanian, an Iranian-American activist and analyst to utter the word when finally granted the mic. She noted Concepcion's staunch opposition to Israel's Zionism and said she was always supportive of Palestinian and other liberation movements in the Mideast. Perhaps it's thus with all prophets -- the moment they die, many around them push aside their central statements that seem inconvenient but were actually the center-line to their dedication and integrity. But, no, Concepcion was largely ignored in life. John Steinbach, longtime antinuclear peace activist and co-coordinator of the Hiroshima/Nagasaki Peace Committee told me: "Concepcion wasn't taken serious by a lot of groups. I can't tell you the number of times I tried to get mainstream peace groups that had protests in Lafayette Square to include or invite or at least acknowledge her vigil which was right there. It never happened." In contrast, Steinbach notes: "The Japanese [nuclear bomb] survivors loved and respected her and always wanted to spend time with her." Advertisement The memorial service did feature a Japanese representative reading a statement from the Hiroshima/Nagasaki Peace Committee. Unfortunately, it also offered a fair number of cliches -- "We Shall Overcome" and a lengthy homily presuming to praise the prophetic voice while ignoring much of the substance of it, instead repeatedly invoking the song "Turn, Turn, Turn". But there was nothing cliche about Concepcion. She had a pointed, high pitched, Spanish accented voice and would utter totally political incorrect statements. "Don't Be a Lemming -- Save Yourself -- Renounce Genocidal Weapons" read her sign. "Silence is a war crime." She'd be good at staying on message as they say, repeating what her signs would say. "Bush is war criminal" she'd repeat. And she held signs on Israel up high and unapologetic: "Judaism YES / Zionism NO" and "Disarm IsraHell -- 200 Illegal Nucs -- Save the World -- Save the Children" and "Stop Funding Israeli Terrorism." Great stuff. But she did make political statements on Israel that I would never make; and I didn't delved into her personal struggles with other activists, which were apparently contentious at times. One sign she'd hold up was "One Nation Under Israel" (which featured a U.S. flag with a star from the Israeli flag on it) and another: "Terrorists Are Us -- 'Holocaust:' A Word Used by Zionists to perpetrate Crimes Against Humanity" (with a swastika scrawled in) -- which featured the website of Neturei Karta - Orthodox Jews United Against Zionism. The Nazi "Holocaust" isn't just a "word" that's been used for murderous purposes of course, but also an actual historical fact. But she didn't write that it was "just" that, though many may have read it that way. Nor do I subscribe to the view that the U.S. is "Under Israel". In fact, I don't much see nations any more. I mostly see forces: imperialism, colonialism, corporate capitalism, white supremacy and misogyny asserting their power and how other forces resist and are complicit with them. Advertisement But I've not seen any of Concepcion's signs on Israel any more at the memorial, which is continuing and seems to be sanitizing itself. As I write, the vigil does have one sign about an upcoming protest against AIPAC -- so it's apparently still alright to criticize rightwing Zionist groups -- and perhaps unintentionally pump them up -- but not the more liberal varieties. This type of framing divorces the centrality of Israel's nuclear weapons, which the U.S. government has rendered it forbidden to speak of, from the anti-nuclear work on the vigil. Really, did you catch that? It's illegal for U.S. officials to talk about Israel's nuclear arsenal. As Grant Smith has found: "Under two known gag orders -- punishable by imprisonment -- U.S. security-cleared government agency employees and contractors may not disclose that Israel has a nuclear weapons program." So perhaps score one for the "One Nation Under Israel" camp. But ignoring Israel's nuclear weapons has the ironic effect of the naive viewer wondering "why pick on Israel?" -- since the Israeli nuclear arsenal -- which was the brainchild of liberal Zionists Ben Gurion and Shimon Peres -- is sidelined instead of being front and center. Concepcion was certainly difficult, at least for me, to talk with. I tried helping her find housing at one point, which might have lead to connections that might have helped, it was hard to tell at times, but she was undoubtedly a handful -- only housing around the White House would do of course. As if that were selfish of her. I end up wishing I were more patient in trying to help her; God knows she was patient with us. Still, I wished that the protest would be more understandable, it certainly came off as eccentric at times. But I think that can be fixed without it being effectively sanitized, which seems where it is headed. Advertisement Front and center are now typical banal signs, which were back bench material for Concepcion: "War Is Not the Answer". Really? I've got news for you: War often is the answer. War can be exactly the answer if the question is how to effectively dominate the planet, which it often is to many. The memorial service put on for Concepcion featured a rendition of "Ain't Gonna Study War No More." I disagree. We actually haven't studied war nearly enough. The "peace movement" needs to get over itself and talk about war: the death, destruction, flying limbs and stench of it in precise terms if it has any interest in actually changing things and not just feeling superior to those dreaded Republicans. Fast disappearing from the vigil is what was central to Concepcion: by embracing a radical humanity, discerning the taboos of the establishment, she rightly raged against them. At the current rate, I fully expect "Free Tibet" signs to pop up at the vigil. In my chatting with her occasionally over the years, I think Concepcion pointed to a central truth -- that colonialism and Zionism were central forces threatening the planet. And that central truth is continually obscured by people talking about neo-conservatives or liberal interventionists instead of seeing an entire neo-colonial project at work, or perhaps not so "neo" at times -- just plain colonial. And one should be clear: She didn't really single out Israel as some do -- she'd talk about unmentionable U.S. "terrorism" and "war crimes" as easily as Israeli. If she seemed to become overly persistent on imperialism and Zionism and Israel's unacknowledged threat to humanity, I think it was a reaction not just to those threats and officialdom and not just to corporate media -- but also "progressive" activists' silence on central questions of nuclear armed Zionism. Advertisement The Civil Rights Movement left a revolutionary legacy of pursuing justice, progress, and power for black people. Fifty years later, Black Lives Matter emerged from the shadows of that legacy but in light of the urgent demand for change and action against racism, police brutality and mass incarceration. While there's no question that Black Lives Matter will be remembered within the history of black activism, it remains to be seen precisely how. Black Lives Matter is still an early movement, growing and quickly expanding. As the young voice of a new generation, the movement has been seen as the child of the Civil Rights Movement. Yet, as its founders have made clear, it is much more than "reforms of policing." This movement represent a longstanding struggle for the full recognition "of our rights as citizens; and it is a battle for full civil, social, political, legal, economic and cultural rights...", as the group co-founder Opal Tometi wrote in Time magazine. Equally or more important, it's also a demand for recognition of their dignity, humanity. This dignity has been consistently denied and violated through systematic police brutality, racial profiling, other forms of state-sanctioned violence, and institutionalized racism. The murders of Eric Garner, Michael Brown, Trayvon Martin, Tamir Rice and Sandra Bland confirm as much. As does the man-made water pandemic in Flint and the egregious roll back of voting rights and access to reproductive healthcare. These murders spurred passionate online and offline protests across several cities as exemplified by the passionate content produced under hashtags such as #BaltimoreUprising, #SayHerName, and #BlackLivesMatter. New York City is one of those places that echoed most of these mobilizations. The majority were taken in rallies in solidarity with Eric Garner death on the hands of a police officer while selling cigarettes. Also, it showed strong solidarity to Michael Brown's death in Ferguson, Millions March, or Sandra Bland, Island Nettles, and other black women lives. Although, manifestations in New York City against racism and police brutality goes as back as 1999, when unarmed Amadou Diallo was shot 41 times by four police officers. Since then, the situation, the message, the place (Union Sq), all are not that different like history repeating itself. These events have been attended by a large group--from a broad range of backgrounds, ages and races. This gallery contains images I took during some of these events that took place over the city that show the diversity of this movement, but especially women pouring their support or pain. Academic research has shown that from all kinds of violence women are always among the most affected and Black Lives Matter is not the exception. Black women are the ones who have suffered the immediate loss of their loved ones -husbands, sons, grandchildren. They have also experienced the sociological consequences violence such as trauma, loss of income, health issues, stigma, domestic violence and homicides. In addition, structured racism places women in a situation vulnerable to poverty, unemployment, limited education and poor health. Not surprising, the Black Lives Matter network, a national network made up of more than 30 chapters was founded by three women, two of them Queer. As they explain in their site, the movement "goes beyond the narrow nationalism that can be prevalent within Black communities" and affirms diversity in its broader sense. The movement has been associated with Black males what activist find unfortunate. BOSTON, MA - FEBRUARY 29: Democratic Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton speaks during a 'Get Out The Vote' rally at Old South Meeting House on February 29, 2016 in Boston, Massachusetts. (Photo by Paul Marotta/WireImage) America heads to the polls tomorrow as part of "Super Tuesday," and supporters of Hillary Clinton hope they will be able to cement the inevitability of her status as the Democratic Party's nominee for president of the United States with an impressive victory. Politicians like to live in the moment, and Hillary Clinton is no different, cloaking herself in the aura of a woman who is well positioned to make the hard choices of governance based upon her "experience, wisdom, skepticism, and humility." But Hillary's "moment" was shaken to the core by the resignation Sunday -- two days before the "Super Tuesday" contests -- of Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard, a veteran of the Iraq War, from her position as vice chairwoman of the Democratic National Committee. Tulsi Gabbard's resignation came at the same time she announced her decision to throw her support behind Hillary Clinton's rival for the Democratic Party nomination, citing "the necessity to have a commander-in-chief who has foresight, who exercises good judgment ... who looks at the consequences of the actions they are willing to take before they take those actions so that we don't continue to find ourselves in these failures that have resulted in chaos in the Middle East and so much loss of life." Tulsi Gabbard, in looking toward the future of America post-Barack Obama, has refused to allow the politics of the moment to blind her to the reality of the past, and in doing so has shined a spotlight on an issue Hillary Clinton wishes would go away -- her vote in support of military action against Iraq in 2002. Advertisement "I have a much longer history than one vote, which I said was a mistake because of the way that it was done and how the Bush administration handled it," Hillary has said, trying to explain away her actions. The issue at hand, however, isn't simply one vote, but rather the processes behind the casting of that one vote which shed considerable light on the judgement of the individual involved. This isn't the first time I've called out Hillary Clinton on the utter hypocrisy of her vote to authorize military force against Iraq in 2002 -- in early 2007 I wrote a piece for AlterNet that addressed my concerns then, on the eve of her first bid for the Democratic Party nomination. I share those concerns today (and for those who might seek to obfuscate the issue of Hillary's recklessness when it comes to issues of war by accusing me of picking on Hillary simply because she is a woman, I would note that I subscribe to the principle of equal opportunity when it comes to hypocritical politicians and their vote on the Iraq War -- in August of 2004, I wrote an op-ed for the Boston Globe strongly criticizing then-Senator John Kerry's qualifications to seek the nomination of the Democratic Party for president because of his vote to authorize military force against Iraq in 2002. I put the spotlight on Hillary's vote today because she is once again seeking the office of the Presidency of the United States. John Kerry is not. If he were, then I would voice the exact same criticism of him. Advertisement In the summer of 2002, on the eve of Senate hearings about Iraq, I paid a visit to Washington, DC, where I sought to gain an audience with those Senators who would be called upon to pass judgement on the president's case for war. For some, this was an exercise in futility -- John McCain, Joe Biden and John Kerry didn't even bother returning my phone calls, despite past promises to consult closely about the issue of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction. Senator Dianne Feinstein did agree to meet, and we spent a good amount of time together, during which time she informed me that, as of that time, she had yet to receive anything resembling a "smoking gun" when it came to intelligence reports about Iraq's possession of WMD. Feinstein went on to vote in favor of military intervention, yet another example of a Senator putting personal politics above the national interest -- Feinstein later "regretted" that vote, but it was too late for those who were called on to pay the price for her political cowardice. Senator Chuck Hagel -- a Republican who had previously met with me in length about Iraq -- gave me an audience with his staff, where I addressed the lack of a case for war in depth. Hagel went on to vote in favor of the war, giving voice to an earlier observation, made to me in the Spring of 2000, that I should not "expect any profile in courage moments" out of Congress when it comes to the issue of Iraq. If Chuck Hagel were running for president today, I'd be delivering a broadside in his direction as well. The meeting -- or lack thereof -- that had the biggest impact on me was the one I didn't have with Hillary Clinton. Hillary was, at that time, one of two Senators from the State of New York, where I was a resident. She was my Senator, and as a constituent who possessed unmatched qualifications on the issue of Iraqi weapons of mass destruction, I felt I had a duty to brief her; and as her constituent, she had a responsibility to give me a hearing or, in the absence of such (recognizing Senators are very busy people), to assign a staff member, a la Chuck Hagel, to hear me out. I made several calls to Hillary's Senate office, trying to arrange a meeting at her convenience. Even after explaining to her staff that I was not only a former Chief Weapons Inspector in Iraq, but also a citizen of the State of New York who wanted to meet with his Senator, all I got was a promise to take my information down in the hope that "someone would get back to me." No one ever did. In the immediate aftermath of my meeting with Senator Feinstein, I decided that, armed with the insights of that meeting, I would simply go to Hillary's office and seek a meeting in person. I did so, only to be treated like a leper trying to enter Old Jerusalem in biblical times. I have spent many, many hours on Capitol Hill, waiting in the anterooms of Senators with far more tenure and qualifications than Hillary Clinton possessed in 2002. These were busy men and women, often chairing important committees, for whom time was a precious commodity. But I never saw them ignore a constituent -- there was always time for a handshake, to share some words and, if needed, to either schedule a more substantive meeting with the Senator or a member of his or her staff. I made my way to 476 Russell, the Senate building where Hillary maintained her office. I had done my homework and knew that Hillary was in Washington, DC at the time I sought the meeting. The receptionist was decidedly cool when I arrived and indicated I would like an opportunity to meet with my Senator. Did I have an appointment? No, I replied. Then there would be no chance for a meeting, she replied. Is the Senator in? I asked. No response to that question, just a reiteration of the previous statement -- there was no chance for a meeting. Could I speak with a member of Senator Clinton's staff who dealt with foreign affairs? I asked, reiterating my qualifications for such a request -- a constituent with first-hand experience about an issue of great importance, only to be told that there was no such staffer available. By this time the receptionist was out of her seat and, together with another staffer, were firmly yet politely herding me to the exit. I handed them a copy of the Arms Control Today article I had written back in 2000 (at the request of John Kerry) which addressed the issue of Iraqi WMD, along with a card containing my contact information -- and forcefully drove home the point that I wasn't some lobbyist to be given the cold shoulder, but rather a constituent seeking to voice legitimate concerns to my elected representative. I was told to try Hillary's New York office, but at that moment there was no chance of a meeting with either the Senator or a member of her staff (as a note, I did attempt to reach out to Hillary's New York office, but never received a reply back). To some, this vignette about a non-meeting might sound like a case of sour grapes -- "the Senator didn't meet with me, so I'll show her!" But it is about far more than that -- Hillary Clinton was my Senator, who was going to be called upon to cast a critical vote about an issue I took very seriously, and in which I had a large amount of sweat equity. If democracy is going to work in this country, then there must be an element of accountability. Otherwise, as Hillary Clinton's opponent for the Democratic Party nomination has sagely observed, we risk sliding down a slippery slope that leads toward oligarchy. Advertisement "I thought I had acted in good faith and made the best decision I could with the information I had," Hillary wrote in her book, Hard Choices, about her Iraq vote in 2002. This is the kind of comment that inflames me as a citizen, because I know, based upon my first-hand experience, that Hillary had been provided the opportunity to gain access to the kind of hard facts that could have pushed her to a different result when it came to her vote. "I wasn't alone in getting it wrong," Hillary lamented in her memoir. "But I still got it wrong. Plain and simple." This is disingenuous. The fact is, as of 2002, Hillary (and the other Senators who voted in favor of military action against Iraq) got it right -- at least as far as their political fortunes were concerned. If you were a freshman Senator who had aspirations for higher office, you could not be seen as swimming against the political current, especially when it came to confronting someone like Saddam Hussein in the aftermath of 9/11, where Al Qaeda and the Iraqi dictator had been (wrongfully) conflated in the minds of most Americans. Hillary simply lacked the moral courage to embrace her own "profile in courage" moment by voting against the Iraq War on the merits. "I wasn't alone in getting it wrong." But she did get it wrong, and because she was my Senator, who ignored my efforts to help set her straight on the facts prior to her casting her vote on Iraq, I will hold her to account -- especially when she tries to gloss over her actions behind the false facade of acting in "good faith" based upon "the information I had." What puzzles me are the blinders many supporters of Hillary Clinton wear when it comes to holding her to account for her past record. I feel I am justified to hold up Hillary's journey toward her vote on Iraq as a mirror to judge her subsequent decisions vis-a-vis Libya and Syria. "As much as I have wanted to," Hillary claims in Hard Choices, "I could never change my vote on Iraq. But I could try to help us learn the right lessons from that war ... I was determined to do exactly that when facing future hard choices, with more experience, wisdom, skepticism, and humility." All I could think of after reading that passage was of then-President George W. Bush, speaking in Nashville, Tennessee in September of 2002, proclaiming "Fool me once, shame on ... shame on you. Fool me ... You can't get fooled again!" I, for one, won't allow myself to be fooled again by Hillary Clinton. She claims she is ready "on day one" to be commander-in-chief, and yet her record clearly indicates otherwise. I'm pleased that people like Tulsi Gabbard seem to agree. But the operative question, here on the eve of 'Super Tuesday," is why so many others fail to hold her to account for issues that resonate among their respective constituencies with the same resonance that Iraq has with me? Why, for instance, would Hispanic voters believe a woman who so brazenly tells a 10-year-old Latina girl who worries about being deported to "Let me do the worrying ... I'll do all the worrying, is that a deal?," when she is on the record favoring the forced deportation of similar children in order to "send a message"? Why, after Hillary Clinton labelled black youth as "super predators" and supported policies in the 1990's that led to the mass incarceration of so many black males, would black voters give her the time of day, let alone their vote? U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, 2016 Democratic presidential candidate, speaks at a town hall at Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa on Monday, Jan. 25, 2016.Mandatory credit to Alex Hanson if used elsewhere. Bernie Sanders, having just finished two rallies in Texas with crowds larger than Hillary Clinton could ever dream of -- a 10,000-person rally in Austin and an 8,000-person one in Dallas -- called Clinton to concede the South Carolina primary and got on a plane bound for Minnesota, a state whose Super Tuesday vote the media hasn't bothered to poll, but which Bernie Sanders is likely to win. If he listened to any of the coverage of his dramatic defeat in the Palmetto State while en-route to Rochester, he probably wondered at its accuracy and cogency. Here's five reasons he'd be right: 1. In South Carolina, Sanders won many of the groups that will matter in the general election, making it puzzling that the media would declare Saturday's primary results solid proof of Clinton's viability in November. Advertisement If the future health of a political party didn't in any sense depend on its courtship of independent voters, young voters, new voters, or white males, the size of Clinton's spread in South Carolina would indeed have been an across-the-board endorsement of her candidacy. Instead, it somehow emphasized Sanders' vaguely Obama-like qualities in the midst of an election result so horrid for Sanders that we've rarely before seen its like in a two-candidate tilt whose national polling is essentially tied. 2. Among voters who decided who they wanted to support over the last four weeks, Sanders significantly outperformed his statewide totals, losing that demographic by less than half what he lost South Carolina by. A month is a long time; in fact, a month is how long the voting portion of the 2016 presidential election has been going on. So whereas Clinton decimated Sanders among South Carolina voters who decided who to vote for well before the candidates got anywhere near the Palmetto State -- indeed, well before anyone in America, but staunch politicos was paying avid attention to the 2016 election -- among those voters who were actually open to persuasion Sanders lost by the same amount in South Carolina that he beat Clinton by (overall) in New Hampshire. This would be just fine for Clinton if South Carolina's Democrats were more representative of a general-election population than New Hampshire's Democrats; unfortunately, that isn't so. Advertisement In 2012, African-Americans made up 13% of the electorate. In South Carolina on Saturday, they accounted for 61% of the electorate. While exit polls in New Hampshire didn't include race as a demographic, 1.5% of New Hampshirites are African-American. So which electorate looks more like general-election America: South Carolina or New Hampshire? The truth is, it isn't close. For that reason, Sanders beating Clinton by 23 points in New Hampshire seems a more promising sign for general election success than Clinton beating Sanders by the same tally in South Carolina among those voters who were persuadable in the month before the election. 3. CNN consistently misstated the composition of the Super Tuesday electorate in a way that dramatically misled viewers about Clinton's prospects. David Chalian, CNN's Political Director, crowed about Clinton's jaw-dropping success among the African-American community in South Carolina. It was, he implied, a powerful confirmation that Clinton will win all the Southern primaries on Tuesday overwhelmingly. The problem? Anyone listening to the pronouncement would have caught Chalian's funny math immediately; while saying that the Southern primaries boast African-American populations about the same size as South Carolina's (61% of the primary electorate), Chalian provided the following figures: 17% of the Texas Democratic electorate is African-American; 19% of the Arkansas Democratic electorate is African-American; and 30% of the Virginia Democratic electorate is African-American. Two other southern states (Alabama and Georgia) boast African-American electorates closer to South Carolina's 61%; in both states, 51% of Democratic primary voters are likely to be black. Advertisement But whither Chalian's point about Texas, Virginia, and Arkansas? While the mix-up isn't likely to be conclusive on Super Tuesday, as Clinton will probably win all three of Texas, Virginia and Arkansas -- though by what margin is unknown, especially in the first two -- it emphasizes how much less powerful African-American voters are in a general election than they are in a Democratic primary. Seventeen percent of Texas Democrats being African-American a) Suggests that the results in South Carolina actually have little to do with the upcoming results in Texas, and b) Emphasizes that Clinton's strength among African-American voters does relatively little for her in a general election. This is especially true given that no core Democratic constituency, be it African-Americans or Jews or Catholics, would be likely to vote for Trump over (say) Bernie Sanders. In other words, Clinton's electability argument, as made against Sanders, isn't particularly dependent on the African-American vote in South Carolina or anywhere else. 4. John King's "Magic Wall" has dazed him into -- frankly -- incoherence. More than a dozen times on Saturday, CNN viewers were treated to King using a large touchscreen to convince them that "most of Super Tuesday" takes place in the Deep South. King repeatedly used a finger to draw a line around the Deep South, as though wishing that Super Tuesday would indeed be merely an "SEC primary" could make it so. Here's a list of the states or other voting units that cast ballots on Tuesday but never made it into the geographic zone King identified as defining Tuesday's vote: American Samoa Colorado Democrats Abroad (ex-pats) Massachusetts Minnesota Oklahoma Texas * Vermont * King repeatedly caught just the eastern-most edge of Texas in his finger-swooping, perhaps because he was trying to emphasize states with a large percentage of African-American voters. Texas has few of these, even in its Democratic primary. If you're counting at home, this list is much longer than the list of states that King correctly identified as holding Democratic primaries on Super Tuesday (Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Tennessee, and Virginia). Now here's a list of the Super Tuesday states (and other political units) where Bernie Sanders is polling the best: Advertisement American Samoa Colorado Democrats Abroad (ex-pats) Massachusetts Minnesota Oklahoma Texas Vermont Notice anything? Yeah, I did too. So did tens of thousands of Sanders voters, many of whom probably felt like throwing things at their television screens on Saturday night. The point here is not to say that John King is in the bag for Clinton -- as frankly, on a network that nightly manages to put three Clinton surrogates, four allegedly neutral commentators, and one Republican on its supposedly even-handed pundit panel for the Democratic primaries, King is actually one of the few largely objective arbiters -- but rather to note that Super Tuesday is not at all likely to give Clinton the sort of commanding delegate lead CNN is preparing its viewers for. Even if Clinton emerges from Tuesday's primaries and caucuses ahead of Sanders by 150 delegates, more than a third of that deficit could be made up by a strong showing in a single state: the very last one to vote, California. More importantly, if Sanders hangs on to the convention it's almost impossible for Clinton to secure the nomination by winning delegates at the pace even CNN's rosy projections assume. Indeed, on Saturday those projections had Clinton winning in several states where Sanders may well beat her: Maine, Utah, Kansas, Alaska, and either Michigan or Washington. 5. Almost no one has voted yet. No, really -- almost no one has voted. After Saturday, 4% of all Democratic delegates -- the voted-upon ones, at least -- have been decided. Ninety-six percent of the primary season still lies ahead of us. More surprisingly, whereas Donald Trump, in winning the South Carolina Republican primary, won fully 4% of the delegates he needs to secure the GOP presidential nomination, Hillary Clinton, in winning South Carolina by nearly five times that margin -- 47.5 points -- received just 1% of the delegates she needs to be the Democratic nominee for President. So when Clinton surrogates leaked to CNN, shortly after the South Carolina results were in, their expectation that the "race will be over" by March 15th, it seemed a little like lunacy. While Bernie Sanders can pack it in whenever he likes, and may one day do so if he thinks it's in the interest of a party that isn't actually his, the more likely scenario is that his presence in the race through May makes it impossible for Hillary Clinton to secure the Democratic nomination outright. Advertisement If Clinton is only able to win with the help of unelected "super-delegates" -- a cringe-worthy Pyrrhic victory -- it might necessitate her making Sanders her running mate. Or, something unexpected may go wrong -- Clinton gets indicted; she or Bill in some way reveal their seediness at an unexpected moment (a few more bad-optics run-ins with #BlackLivesMatter protestors might do it); or Sanders simply continues to make progress with Latino voters, who he won in Nevada, or African-American voters, who he can only do better with going forward -- and he actually makes things interesting in April and beyond. After all, the main thing CNN and its Clinton boosters seemed to urgently stress on Saturday was that South Carolina, whose electorate is in no way representative of either general-election or Democratic-primary voting populations, is in fact an old Democratic bellwether. In actuality, most of the late-voting states have voting populations more similar, demographically speaking, to Iowa, New Hampshire, and Nevada -- contests in which Sanders got closer and closer to beating expectations. In other words, South Carolina, while certainly a setback for Sanders, could as easily be a speed-bump as a landmine. If it was reported that 50,000 kids in Mexico were at the brink of the biggest intervention the Mexican government has ever undertaken to turn around hopelessness, despair, addiction and enslavement to a culture of drugs amongst youth -- would that make a compelling headline? Would it perhaps get even a fraction of clicks as dramatic pronouncements from Donald Trump vowing to build a wall along the southern border of Mexico? If I brought your attention to the fact that this under-reported intervention in Mexico responsible for saving precious lives is a unique program combining holistic techniques including breathwork -- would that grab any eyeballs? Would a media driven culture with an insatiable appetite for the negative or macabre, pause in consideration if a program using breathwork turned around thousands of young lives quagmired in hopelessness? What would 50,000 Mexican youth have in common with over 30 million people around the world? And why are 3.5 million people coming together to honor and create a culture of peace? The common factor is truly common, but one seldom considered - the BREATH. In 155 countries over 30 million people have experienced the life changing workshops teaching programs that involves breathwork, yoga and wisdom. Advertisement The Art of Living Foundation has taught these programs for 35 years and will be celebrating its humanitarian endeavors with a World Culture Festival in New Delhi, India, March 11-13, 2016. Its founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, talking about the upcoming World Culture Festival, where 3.5 million people are expected to attend a first of its kind event, said,"Congregation of good people is enough to convey that negativity can be defeated." Sri Sri's message is simple: "Love and wisdom can prevail over hatred and violence." This message is not just a slogan, but through the AOLF programs it has been translated into action all around the world. Creating a Culture of Peace in Mexico Bill Herman, a senior teacher with the Art of Living Foundation, and International Director Y.E.S for Schools Program, International Association of Human Values, has taught these programs successfully to thousands of kids and educators around the United States and South America. Last year this Chicago based Y.E.S ( Youth Empowerment Seminar) teacher spent his summer in Mexico, bringing Y.E.S to 46 schools in the cities of Ecatepec, Metepec and Nezahualcoyotl, where 3078 young people benefited from the program. According to him the Y.E.S for Schools provides schools with a modality of restorative practices through customized programs for youth and adults. "Our unique whole-body approach to stress and social emotional learning combines transformative physiological practices, including breathing techniques and meditation, in concert with cognitive tools and awareness." Herman, who has taught these programs in Brazil, the Dominican Republic and in the United States in New Jersey, Chicago and Palo Alto to name a few, says that, "to create a culture of peace through the schools in the largest cities in the state of Mexico was a moving and empowering experience." For the spring of 2016 in Mexico, the Minister of Education, is organizing a Teacher Training program for 200 of their own school counselors, psychologists, social workers to become Y.E.S teachers to officially bring Y.E.S to 50,000 students, parents and teachers in the next year. Israel Cerrillo, a school director said, "To have a program that helps them control their emotions, to see life from a different perspective, they will begin to be promoters for peace." Advertisement Viviana Jimenez, Director of Family Network, Values for Harmonious Schools Program, Ministry of Education, Mexico, says, "It is a subtle energy that spreads in the school, and when students are in that energy, their thoughts and actions change. In the quality of this harmonious environment, education for peace, happens spontaneously." Creating a Culture of Peace in Schools with Varying Challenges A High School in Palo Alto, one of the most affluent communities in the United States, is recognized not just for the exceptional students it produces, but an exceptionally high rate of suicides among High Schools in the US - causing it to be termed a "suicide cluster" school -- has turned to the same breathing techniques to help students facing a pressure cooker environment. The Principal Denise Herrmann, in addressing mental health issues at the school, cited the Y.E.S program in helping to teach kids positive coping techniques. Johane Ligonde, is the principal of the J. W. Dodd Middle School in Freeport, New York, a large suburban district with a diverse population. Over a two year period, the school measured qualitative and quantitative changes in student performance and engagement by employing the YES program in its school. She believes that employing the YES program was transformative in cultivating a culture of peace in the school. She pointed out that, "Peace is not an external state of affairs but the internal condition of each student, teacher, administrator and parent. This awareness cultivates peace in the self with the potential of creating a culture of peace in our families, schools, communities, nation, and world." In Chicago, this ripple effect of a culture of peace as a result of a dedicated Y.E.S teacher, Emily Lifton, being situated at this south side school on a regular basis for over four years, encouraged students to engage with their academic and social environment in a responsive manner. Despite neighborhood socio economic challenges, student dropout rates reduced significantly at the Instituto del Progreso Latino, in Chicago. None of these efforts at addressing mental health make headlines, while we wonder what if these same students were entrapped in a carnage marked by gun violence, sadly occurring in schools all too often lately; episodes in different forms that have peppered the country leaving in their aftermath fear, helplessness and a terror that media coverage widely amplifies. Advertisement Creating a Culture of Peace One Breath at a Time. What will 50,000 Mexican kids who will be taught the Y.E.S program have in common with 30 million people around the world? A program of breathwork that has proven its ability to reduce stress and anxiety and inculcate peace and happiness. Ironically, as a society we have buffered ourselves to react only to overt violence, not to acts of peace. This predicates that a new culture be engendered. One where the rally for peace is as vociferous as the cacophony of violence; where the media plays the role of an enabler and as an opinion maker of peace -- to practice solutions-oriented journalism. This unique opportunity presents itself at the World Culture Festival. If one said that a bridge of breaths, connecting almost 30 million people who practice these breathing techniques around the world, anchoring them together in peace, is the foundation of the World Culture Festival, it would not be an exaggeration. Palo Alto to Chicago and Mexico to India -- a noise for peace is rising, culminating in the largest group meditation anywhere in the world at the World Culture Festival -- a gathering of humanity to honor peace -- one breath at a time. To join the World Culture Festival click here. This post is part of a blog series produced by The Huffington Post in partnership with the Art of Living Foundation for the World Culture Festival. The goal of the series is to present thought leadership, opinions and solutions from leaders of multidisciplinary sectors of business, politics, arts, culture, music and religion who are assembling in India for the World Culture Festival, along with 3.5 million people, to celebrate humanity and promote peace, harmony and harmonious co-existence. The effort is also part of The Huffington Post's "What's Working" solutions-oriented journalism initiative. Violent protests in Haryana for jobs reservations. Photo Credit: AP This article has been co-authored with Dr Unni Karunakara. An incendiary and violent jobs reservation protest by young people from a community known as Jats in Haryana was close to bringing the capital of India, New Delhi to a standstill. Is this an ominous sign of social upheaval that looms in the horizon? Henrik Urdal of the Harvard Kennedy School finds that globally, it is nearly all young men who fight in wars or commit violent crimes and found that a "youth bulge" made them more strife-prone. When 15-24-year-olds made up more than 35% of the adult population--as is common in developing countries--the risk of conflict was 150% higher than with a rich-country age profile. By 2020, the average age in India will be 29 and it is set to become the world's youngest country with 64% of its population in the working age group. Advertisement With Western Europe, the US, South Korea, Japan and even China aging, this demographic potential offers India and its growing economy an unprecedented edge that economists believe could add a significant 2% to the GDP growth rate. However Western Europe, the US, South Korea, Japan and China have grown rich before they have grown old. They invested in education and skills, health, empowerment and employment and ensured women joined the workforce, as they were empowered to plan their families. India is currently enjoying a 'demographic dividend', which means, it has a higher labour force than the population dependent on it. While this may appear a reason for blissful complacency, it must be remembered that by the latter half of the century India will have an increasingly aging population, yet the country lacks a social security net adequate for the needs of its people. However a demographic disaster looms too. This is caused by low levels of investment in education and health. Currently the majority of Indian workers - nine out of ten - are in the informal sector, where employment is unsteady, pay is poor and social security is lacking. Advertisement Education, especially secondary education for girls, must be prioritized. The gross enrolment ratio for girls at the secondary school level is 73.7 (slightly higher than for boys) but the government cannot rest until that number is 100. The 10% cut in government allocation for the school sector means the push to towards total gross enrollment just got harder. The country must also generate large scale employment, taking care to ensure more women join the work force. Concurrently, access to quality higher education must be expedited; currently, 75% of graduates, by some estimates are not considered employable. The healthcare sector is really where India must up its game. Rates of malnutrition among India's children are almost five times higher than China's and twice those in Sub-Saharan Africa. A staggering 75% of new mothers are anaemic. Healthcare in India so pathetic that without a seismic change the demographic dividend may not last as long as envisaged. The country has one of the lowest government expenditures on public health at a measly 1.2% of GDP. To compare, fellow BRICS countries China and Brazil spend 5.5% and 9% of the GDP on healthcare. In 2015, the Indian government went so far as to slash the budgets for both education and health sectors. Advertisement Appropriate policies, strategies and programs need to be put into place immediately. Priority must be given to substantially lowering fertility (presently Total Fertility Rate/TFR is 2.5) and lowering maternal and child mortality. While overall, India is on track to achieving replacement level fertility of 2.1 children per woman, the TFR of 2.5 masks disparities between urban and rural areas with TFRs of 1.8 and 2.6 respectively and regional variation between states, notably between northern states like Uttar Pradesh (TFR 3.3) where illiteracy and poverty rates are high and more developed southern states like Kerala (TRF of 1.8) which also has the highest literacy rate in India. As Haryana is showing, without concerted action, India could instead face a backlash from the growing numbers of disgruntled and unemployed or unemployable youth that will emerge as has already been witnessed in many other parts of India. However, in a best case scenario, if India makes healthcare the government's central priority, it could grow at an unprecedented rate. The country would do well to start by following the example of African countries, many of which in 2001 pledged to allocate 15% of their GDP to public health. A matching investment in education and skills would be an appropriate starting point. Whether India's youth will be a blessing or a curse, a demographic dividend or a disaster, firmly rests in the hands of the government and the pro-youth policies it implements. Another version of this opinion piece appeared in the Hindustan Times. Wait. What did she say? The audience shifted uncomfortably in their seats. No response. The air seemed thin and tight. She asked again. "How many of you white folks would want to be black, given the way our black citizens have generally been treated by this society?" Still no response. No one uttered a word. She continued. "That means you know something is wrong. If you would not want it for yourself, why would you want it for others?"** Advertisement Like deer stunned by headlights they sat -- "outed" by their contribution to humanity's racial brokenness. I heard that to heal properly, some bones have to be broken again and reset. "...You know something is wrong..." Lots of folks know something is wrong. Some simply don't care. Some care, and don't know what to do. Whether by intention, ignorance, or innocence, they live from the benefit of unearned privilege. Some choose not to see it. Some who see, move beyond the shame of ego pain, knowing they cannot satiate guilt through the cosmetics of charitable or social work. Neither can they mute guilt through ornamental friendships that feign diversity and political correctness. They know it is going to take more. Poems for Niggers and Crackers is more. Published in May of 1965, a section of the introduction reads as follows: "Poems for Niggers and Crackers... arose out of the uncontrollable hatred and despair of the black poet, Ibrahim Ibn Ismail and the unwanted guilt and disgust of the white poet, James V. Hatch and the attempts of each to purge himself of these negative emotions through joint poetic expression." Both American poets at a chance meeting in Egypt found common ground in their mutual disgust of America's racial disparities and their mutual concern for one another. Advertisement "Neither the hatred, anger and despair nor the guilt and disgust originated with the meeting. They were created long before by the simple and yet horrific circumstance of the poets having grown to manhood in a society in which each submitted to the emotions which seemed the best defense against total destruction." Just 50 years later, we are not unlike these poetic souls. We are still looking for ways to respond to horrific circumstances that ripple from a race card played against 400 years of free labor upon which historic unearned privilege flows. Just because it was free doesn't mean there was no cost. The South Carolina Massacre, Black Lives Matter, All Lives Matter, The Oscars - not all of these have equal importance. They are unified as outbreaks of an unhealed society. "...You know something is wrong..." Some folks think we should stop talking about it. But, it will take uncomfortable conversations, standing against institutional racism, refining anger into productive responses, showing mercy in the face of ignorance, accepting difference without tolerating bias, "outing", and deciding to come together in spite of it all. Uncomfortable conversations flourish in my friend Brian's living room in Washington, DC. . Brian is committed to more. Of the gathering, Brian writes: Advertisement "A small [diverse] group of friends gathered at our house a few days ago. Each attendee is a brilliant thinker and practitioner of Christian ministries and programs. Some are making a difference in the lives of inner city youth in DC. Some are bringing justice to poor people in other nations. We came together to share our personal experiences growing up in this "racialized" society and share opinions about how the City of DC and the Church here can be a model of reconciliation. Black participants started the conversation by stating that they are all tired and angry. Specifically angry at white privilege and at white church leaders who refuse to admit their privilege...And the damage they are doing to brothers and sisters in the Lord. Their ongoing sin of racism undermines their ability to tell others that God loves them because they do not love their own neighbors..." Others added that they are angry that white Christians are not repenting of our privilege and arrogance, and that white Christians are not doing what is needed to renounce our willful ongoing embrace of power over others whom God has created in His own image and created as our equals. One participant corrected us about the use of the term "racial reconciliation." She noted, "To be reconciled means that the two parties were at one time united. But white people have never considered black people to be equals in any way. And white people are not about to give up their privilege and power. So there is nothing to be reconciled about." "...You know something is wrong..." By the way, Brian is white. I am black. We are both Christians. We started an email exchange on this topic. Advertisement Brian shared: "So many of us white people are comfortable with our false gods of comfort, security, and position that we will sit down and shut up rather than step into the midst of the conversation, struggle, and fights...because that will cost us our position. We fear being "outed," removed from our position of power. So we look the other way when we see other people being abused. I have been outing myself. To date, the worst thing that has happened is that old friends and some family have stopped talking to me." "You know something is wrong...you would not want it for yourself, why would you want it for others?" Transformation must be consummated by the courage to press into private and public places where it will cost something. In his Letter from Birmingham Jail, Dr. King reminded eight white clergymen who criticized his actions, "We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly." Kim Anthony, 49, of rural Humboldt. Memorial services will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, March 1, at the Wherry Mortuary, 207 N. Nemaha St., Humboldt, with Pastor Howard Blecha officiating. Inurnment will be at the Frankfort Cemetery in Frankfort, Kan., at a later date. Alan Arnold DeBuhr, 61, of Barneston. Memorial services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at Harman-Wright Mortuary in Beatrice with Pastor David Bigley officiating. Casual dress is recommended. Inurnment with military rites will follow in the Evergreen Home Cemetery in Beatrice. There will be no visitation. Memorials are suggested to the familys choice in care of the mortuary. Alida Dorothy (Brandt) Freese, 77, of Plymouth. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, March 2, 2016 at St. Pauls Evangelical Lutheran Church of Plymouth with Pastor Fred Berger officiating. Burial will be in the St. Pauls Evangelical Lutheran Cemetery of rural Plymouth. A family prayer service will be held at 10 a.m. on Wednesday at the church. The body will lie in state at the Fox Funeral Home of Plymouth until 9 p.m. Tuesday, March 1, with the family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m. on Tuesday and at the church one hour preceding the services on Wednesday. A memorial has been established to the St. Pauls Evangelical Lutheran Church with the Church Elders in charge. Deborah S. Pallas, 59, Wilber. Celebration of Life on Tuesday, March 1, at 10:30 a.m., Kuncl Funeral Home, Wilber. No visitation. Patrick J. Roskilly of Hanover, Kan. Memorial service will be at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 5, 2016 at Gerdes-Meyer Funeral Home in Fairbury. Delmar R. Schmidt, 91, of Tecumseh. Memorial services will be held at 11 a.m. Saturday, March 5 at the Zion Lutheran Church north of Johnson, Neb., with Rev. John Kisling officiating. Visitation will be at the Wherry Mortuary in Tecumseh Friday, March 4 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., with family greeting friends from 6-8 p.m. Graveside services will be held at 2 p.m. in the Tecumseh Cemetery, Tecumseh, with full military honors. James Jim Oliver Tucker, 86, of Beatrice. Funeral services will be held at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, March 2, 2016 at Harman-Wright Mortuary of Beatrice with Pastor Mark Schutt officiating. Interment with military rites will be in the Evergreen Home Cemetery of Beatrice. Visitation will be held from noon to 9 p.m. Tuesday, March 1, 2016 at Harman-Wright Mortuary in Beatrice. A memorial to the familys choice with the mortuary in charge. Gene editing health care concept as molecular scissors cutting a dna strand as a medical science and biology technology symbol for changing genetic material to help cure disease. New genetic technologies like CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing and synthetic biology are leading us to entirely new definitions of disease. Now "patients" include people who want children who lack some of their own genes, or have additional ones that they themselves lack. Also among the new patients are people who in the past were too old to have children as well some women who get sick from pregnancy and childbirth, or even the idea of them. Technological advances on the horizon may eventually offer treatment for such conditions. In February 2015 the British Parliament approved production of "three-parent" children by transferring the nucleus of one woman's egg into the nucleus-less ("enucleated") egg of a second woman to avoid the propagation of certain rare "mitochondrial" diseases. Though there were acknowledged risks of the unprecedented procedure (including the possibility of producing novel birth defects), the argument that prevailed was that some mitochondrial diseases are so devastating that it should be tried in the narrowly defined group of prospective mothers carrying defective mitochondria. Advertisement Not long afterward, news articles began to appear discussing use of the technique for an entirely different purpose. The procedure's inventor, the Oregon Health & Science University biologist Dr. Shoukhrat Mitalipov, was now proposing to treat infertility in older women by transferring their egg nuclei into the enucleated eggs of younger women. With its presumptive safety certified by Parliament, Dr. Mitalipov was eager to move forward with his new plans for the technique. "Compared to a rare condition like mitochondrial disease, infertility is a big, big problem for modern society because of women delaying their first baby. When they finally decide, the delay has already affected their egg quality," he told a reporter from The Independent. "We consider infertility a disease, and you treat the patients as you do for mitochondrial disease. I wouldn't say one disease is more severe than another. Infertility is a very serious problem and these women deserve treatment as for any other disease. If the procedure is effective and safe, why would you hold it for one group of patients, but not for another?" John Harris, a professor of bioethics at Manchester University stated, "If the technique is safe enough for it to be used for the one purpose, I don't see why it wouldn't be safe enough to use for the other." Infertility has many causes apart from presumed age-dependent impairment of mitochondria, and affects a much wider group of prospective patients. For women, the most common and uncontroversial cause is the failure of embryos to implant in the uterus, or to be retained once implanted. Such problems have increasingly been addressed by use of gestational surrogates. While a satisfactory solution for some, surrogacy incurs its own difficulties. Although women of similar socioeconomic status to those undertaking the procedure have sometimes been willing, for altruistic reasons, to serve in this capacity, most often the surrogates are drawn from poorer sectors, including those of the developing world. This had led to the possibility, and sometimes the reality, of economic exploitation of women who enter into such contracts out of need. This, along with the sense in some cultures that subcontracting these aspects of motherhood violates human dignity has led to gestational surrogacy being banned in some countries and jurisdictions. Advertisement But with the growing use of CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing methods it should eventually become possible to produce farm animals for use as gestational surrogates. George Church and his colleagues at Harvard University have used CRISPR/Cas9 to remove the DNA sequences of endogenous retroviruses from the genomes of pigs so as to make their tissues and organs suitable for transplantation into humans. To fully implement this plan it will be necessary to further genetically modify the pigs so that their cells are not recognized as foreign by human graft recipients. Given these efforts, we can anticipate that analogous manipulations can be done to ensure that the uteruses of female pigs (or sheep, or other large domesticated animals) provide receptive environments for the growth of human embryos. But this will not be an easy task. The biological properties of endometria (uterine linings) of different mammals are highly varied. The CRISPR/Cas9 methodology, however, has the capacity to modify many genes simultaneously. Church's retrovirus-free pigs, for example, had 62 of their genes removed, and adding new genes is similarly straightforward. Another obstacle stems from the fact that the human placenta has unique characteristics. To make human embryos and fetuses compatible with a sow's uterus (however well-prepared genetically it may be), would likely require genetic modification of the embryos themselves prior to implantation. Because the fetal contribution to the placenta comes from a population of embryonic cells separate from those that form the prospective body, this kind of genetic engineering should not interfere (or at least not too much) with features of the eventual person - height, musical ability, personality. (The desirability of deliberately making such modifications is a separate issue.) Once these coordinated sets of modifications in the human embryo and the porcine surrogates have been accomplished, a large step will have been taken toward curing the disease of infertility. But success along these lines would open the possibility of treating the many millions of prospective sufferers from a still different set of adverse conditions. It is well recognized that pregnancy and childbirth are health hazards, and in the current social environment they can often be professional liabilities. Applying Professor Harris's precept, quoted above, that "[i]f the technique is safe enough for it to be used for the one purpose, I don't see why it wouldn't be safe enough to use for the other," it would only be natural to alleviate the condition of pregnancy, insofar as it comes to be understood to be an illness, by employing farm animal gestation. Advertisement It might seem that there will social resistance to such redefinitions and technological fixes. But this would be to underestimate the popular appeal of life-transforming technologies, particularly in a market society. Less than 20 years ago, a U.S. patent application was filed for "chimeric" embryos and animals that were part-human and part-nonhuman. The intention was to shock the public into recognition of the power of the period's emerging biotechnologies, and how their implementation for useful purposes could violate deeply held social values. In response to the filing, the chair of Harvard Medical School's Department of Genetics stated, "[t]he creation of chimeras is an outlandish undertaking. No one is trying to do it at present, certainly not involving human beings." "What I would say is: Politicizing the issue doesn't help matters. Let's focus in on the solution and how to deal with the damage that was done and help the citizens of Flint and make Flint a stronger community." - Gov. Rick Snyder in response to criticism from Democratic presidential frontrunner Hillary Clinton, Detroit News, Jan. 19 The Flint water crisis is, first and foremost, about people. Young children are most susceptible to lead poisoning, so the devastating reality is that they're facing a lifetime of health issues. And we don't know how many people have been harmed, which is horrifying, in and of itself. Reasonable people don't dispute these facts. But there's been plenty to fight about -- how quickly to remove pipes, how to find the money and, of course, who to blame. This is how politics works. Anyone who thought the crisis wouldn't be debated in the political arena is hopelessly naive. Advertisement GOP Gov. Rick Snyder has taken a series of body blows. There's no doubt that decisions and failures from his appointed emergency managers, Department of Environmental Quality and Department of Health and Human Services all played key roles in the crisis. And despite his stubborn insistence that he didn't know Flint's water was poisoned until October 2015, questions remain. Snyder and Republicans have valiantly tried to blame the Environmental Protection Agency, which, not coincidentally, is part of a Democratic presidential administration. Some have made the case, particularly in conservative media, that local Flint officials messed everything up (because you know how well Democrats run cities, wink). This argument only plays well with those who aren't aware of how Michigan's EM law works (and are predisposed to blame Democrats for everything). Stories also keep breaking that undercut the GOP narrative, like the state carting in bottled water last year for its workers, but insisting to residents that their tap water was fine. We've also learned that state officials raised concerns last spring about a link between the water and Legionnaire's disease. But Republicans have made one interesting political play, determining that the best defense is a good offense. Snyder, Lt. Gov. Brian Calley, Michigan GOP Chair Ronna Romney McDaniel and assorted other Republicans have all been banging the drum for the last month that Democrats are "politicizing" the crisis. Advertisement It's a bold move, albeit somewhat nauseating, given how long Snyder's administration failed to act. But, perhaps it's politically necessary. It is pretty damning when you have a prominent former Snyder aide like Dennis Schornack declaring to the Detroit Free Press that "the people of Flint got stuck on the losing end of decisions driven by spreadsheets instead of water quality and public health." So how are Democrats politicizing the crisis? The GOP's No. 1 target is Hillary Clinton, and for good reason. The Democratic presidential frontrunner has visited Flint, as has her daughter, Chelsea, and has repeatedly raised the water crisis in nationally televised debates. Clinton has called it a "civil rights issue," adding that "we would be outraged if this happened to white kids, and we should be outraged that it's happening right now to black kids." Snyder's pointed response was that "politicizing the issue doesn't help matters." McDaniel echoed this point, sniffing that "only when [Clinton] was showing a 30-point deficit in New Hampshire did she make her first visit to Flint." Naturally, McDaniel hasn't expressed outrage that GOP presidential candidates have yet to find their way to the city -- or that Ted Cruz had been holding up a Flint aide bill in Congress. But that's not her job, of course. Anytime anyone claims politicians are "politicizing" something or "grandstanding," I have to stifle a yawn. That's what they do. It's like pretending to be affronted by a viper biting its prey. We expect politicians to talk about important issues of the day. They're going to do so in ways that make themselves look good and help their campaigns. And of course, one person's grandstanding is another's passionate vision -- it all depends on what side of the political fence you're on. Clinton is no different than any other politician. Neither is Snyder. Advertisement And if "grandstanding" by anyone -- Clinton, Snyder, Cher, Michael Moore, you name it -- brings more donations to Flint, all the better. You don't have to agree with any of them. It's fine if they make your stomach churn. But like it or not, celebrities and politicians command attention and can bring important issues to light. The people of Flint have suffered far too long. They deserve any help, for whatever reason, that comes their way. "Till It Happens To You"... And When It Does? "You tell me it gets better, it gets better in time You say I'll pull myself together, pull it together, you'll be fine Tell me, what the hell do you know? What do you know? Tell me how the hell could you know? How could you know? Till it happens to you, you don't know how it feels, how it feels Till it happens to you, you won't know, it won't be real No, it won't be real, won't know how it feels..." Lady Gaga's song "Till It Happens to You," co-written with Diane Warren, has been nominated for an Oscar for Best Original Song. No upbeat, catchy Disney soundtrack here. Unless you know the context -- that Lady Gaga wrote it for "The Hunting Ground," a statistically-challenged but otherwise compelling documentary on campus rape -- the subject matter might not even register. Advertisement But, let's take the premise of "Till It Happens To You" and review what "It" may involve. Because, really, Lady Gaga is right: "What the hell do you know..." So, here's a little of what you can expect, if and when it does happen to you... 1) You'll likely know the guy. About 80 percent of rapes are by men that women know. So, you go to the police and say, "It was George and he lives at such-and-such address." But then George says, "Yeah, we had sex, but she wanted it." If George has half a brain, he says, "It was consensual, sir," to the officer asking him, showing he is respectful, articulate, and aware of the concept. With that one word, "consensual," all the evidence from your hospital examination, the rape kit, the meticulously gathered semen samples and pubic hairs, the notation about a vaginal tear or thigh bruises? All moot. So, be prepared to hear, "We're sorry but there is insufficient evidence to proceed." 2) A movie-version rape is most likely to get attention... and an indictment. The crime of "rape" that we visualize when we hear the word is an attack by a total stranger, with a deadly weapon, in an alley (or coming through a bedroom window). And the victim bravely defends her honor, by resisting the strong, hostile man with a weapon, until she is very bloody and really messed up. And, unfortunately, despite fighting the good fight, she still gets raped. Police detectives then hunt down the perpetrator by diligent detecting, and DAs get convictions with DNA and "evidence"... blood, black eyes, bruising, choke marks. This is what district attorneys and juries still crave in a rape case. (For a searing but pragmatic account of her own rape by a stranger when a college freshman, read Alice Sebold's Lucky.) Advertisement 3) You'll think about how much easier it would have been to have your car stolen. Let's try an analogy. Your car is stolen. Now, nobody hesitates to report a stolen car. Police don't ask you if it was really stolen, or if maybe you meant to share it with the guy who took it, maybe just loan it for a few weeks? Or imply that you asked for your car to be stolen by not locking it, or leaving it in that dark garage? Your car is still considered stolen even if nobody witnessed it being stolen. Or if you didn't fight with a maybe armed, dangerous thief to prove he was really stealing it. If your car is gone, and you say it was stolen, the police take you at your word. I know. I am being overly simplistic. And it's insane. Which is how you may feel after being raped by someone you know, perhaps trusted, who lied to you, forced or coerced or intimidated you into compliance, and then violated your body and spirit. Who took you by force, or surprise, or when you were too inebriated to protest. Because, after going through the add-on trauma of a rape exam, making a police report, doing everything good girls are supposed to do, it will come down to his "word" against your "word." Because he says you (metaphorically speaking) gave him the keys, or at least didn't tell him (loudly enough so he could appreciate the seriousness of your position) that you were not about to give him your fucking car. And it will be up to you to prove you didn't hand over the keys and say, "Go for a joy ride on me, big boy." 5) You will need to decide for yourself whether or not to report being raped to the police, or your university, or both. Each choice comes with its own challenges. Whichever decision you make, you may end up second-guessing yourself. Victim advocates at your local Rape Crisis Center can help. But this is your decision. 6) The lines "You tell me it gets better, it gets better in time" are pretty accurate. You may never trust as you did before, may always have an edge of PTSD vigilance, but, if you get help, not deny it ever happened, it does get better. You do not have to be defined by "It." Advertisement So, that's a little heads up, because "How could you know..." For more statistics and data on sexual assault, go to the Rape Abuse & Incest National Network (www.RAINN.org), the National Sexual Violence Resource Center (www.NSVRC.org), the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics (www.bjs.gov), the Sexual Assault Response Services (www.sarsonline.org). Those are good starting places.) Susan Kraus is a therapist, mediator and writer. She first started working with victims of sexual assault in the mid-1970s. She is writing this from Panama, where she is working on her third novel, which centers on campus rape and consequences. For info on her other work go to www.susankraus.com. ------------------- The first thing I notice when I arrive at the New York City studio of photographer Rosalind Fox Solomon is that there is a distinct smell of gas permeating the air outside the building. Immediately my mind veers to the darkest corners possible and I think: I've come all the way from to Vermont to meet one of my heroes and now we're all gonna die (this kind of unrealistic fear is one of the reasons I moved to the country 8 years ago). Rosalind Fox Solomon Tara Wray Terrifying odors aside, I ring the bell and ride the elevator to the seventh floor, where the doors open into a light filled space the size of a small bowling alley. Solomon greets me warmly and we sit in front of gallery sized images from her new monograph Got to Go (MACK). She's tweaking them before her solo exhibition at Bruce Silverstein opens February 25th. Solomon is 85-years-old, but could easily pass for someone decades younger. Her hair is silver and the beads she wears around her neck are blood red. Advertisement "Got to Go is far more than my story," she says. "Though it touches on the personal, in the end, it is about women's roles, male attitudes, and gender pitfalls." Part of what initially drew me to Solomon's work was her fearless approach. In her nearly 50-year career, Solomon has pointed her lens at people dying from AIDS, people living in the daily chaos of Israel and the West Bank, women, herself, the rituals of human suffering, all with an unflinching, yet empathetic eye. It's landed her in the permanent collections of MoMA and The Met, in 30 solo exhibitions and 100 group exhibitions, as well as more than 50 museums worldwide. Ringgold, Georgia, 1976 Rosalind Fox Solomon, Courtesy Bruce Silverstein Gallery But when I push her on the subject, she says she doesn't really like to talk about her photography. "I want viewers to bring their own emotions and experience to my pictures." The crisp black and white images in the book are from her archive (most are never-before-seen and were culled from 400 down to the 79 that appear); some are forty years old. I ask her where she sees herself in 5 years, creatively speaking. "I see myself continuing with multimedia work and performance, which I began doing after studying movie-making in the late nineties. I've been working with voice teachers for seven years." Advertisement As Solomon spoke more about incorporating voice, music and performance into her work, I saw her light up, and I was reminded that as artists we shouldn't be beholden to a single medium. "Bruce Silverstein is opening my exhibition simultaneously with the launch of Got to Go. The two-part installation begins with 30 photographs drawn from the book and climaxes with a three-channel projection of images at 5x5 feet. The projection is its own piece. The soundtrack includes my voiceover as well as excerpts from Jason Eckardt's composition, Tongues, performed by Tony Arnold and the International Contemporary Ensemble." Solomon is working and hustling with more energy than people a quarter of her age. "Living is part of work. How you treat people. What excites you. What irritates you. What you love. Who you love. Where you stand. I gave up a more comfortable life, but was not comfortable in it. I gave up a big social life, but I didn't want it. I like my life. Work keeps me alive. And work is there in the end." As I ride the elevator down to the lobby, I take my camera out of my bag. I head down Broadway. The air is cold and pictures are everywhere. Advertisement Jonesboro, Tennessee, 1977 Rosalind Fox Solomon, Courtesy Bruce Silverstein Gallery Ancash, Peru, 1981 Rosalind Fox Solomon, Courtesy Bruce Silverstein Gallery By Brigitte Griswold, Director of Youth Engagement Programs for The Nature Conservancy On February 17th, I had the privilege of speaking on a panel at the 2016 Winter Youth Assembly at the United Nations, which gathered 1,000 participants from 70 countries to focus on the role of youth leaders in the implementation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Comprised of 17 Sustainable Development Goals ranging from eradicating world poverty and reducing inequality, to combating climate change and protecting our lands and waters, the goals are intended to "stimulate action over the next fifteen years in areas of critical importance for humanity and the planet." My fellow panelists--Vanessa Cardenas, Director of Latino Outreach and Climatico Project at the World Wildlife Fund, and Molly Bangs, Associate Special Projects Editor at The Huffington Post--and I fielded an array of questions from young people who will be leading the charge on implementing these ambitious goals. Their questions were challenging and insightful - ranging from the youth unemployment crisis to environmental injustices to sustainable development in China to reversing the gloom and doom narrative that dominates so much of the environmental dialogue. I walked away from this assembly feeling so hopeful for the future, in spite of the fact that there are no shortages of big environmental problems for the world to tackle, and in spite of the fact that these challenges will disproportionately fall on the shoulders of younger generations. Advertisement I'm hopeful because as challenges mount for the planet, new leaders are rising to meet them. And I've never felt that more strongly than while looking out into the sea of young faces, who travelled from all around the world to foster dialogue and generate partnerships between UN officials, the private sector, nonprofits, and civil society, to lead our world into a more just, equitable, and sustainable future. I took away two big epiphanies during this assembly. First, it was very clear that the Youth Assembly was created to deliberately include youth voices in the implementation of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals. That day, in the General Assembly Hall, the youth who were likely to be the most impacted by climate change were at the table rolling up their sleeves to develop plans and actions that are relevant to them, their families and communities around the globe. What if all organizations that strive to serve youth included them in these kinds of large scale key decision making processes? That would be a truly empowering game changer - and I wonder how much the conservation movement writ large would benefit from a similar approach. Second, I was inspired that these young leaders seem to be tackling environmental problems from a very different perspective than previous generations'- they are redefining what the environment means in an increasingly urban, interconnected, globalized and diverse world. The lenses through which they see environmental issues are as much about social equity, cultural identity, and economic development as they are about protecting landscapes and polar bears: they view these issues as interconnected and inseparable. And they are BIG! There are 1.8 billion young people between the age of 10-24, representing the largest and most diverse generation in history. They are exceedingly entrepreneurial, and doggedly hopeful about the future. I'm betting that because of all these things, they are likely to develop novel, intersectional approaches to environmental challenges. Advertisement This generation will forever impact the fabric and texture of the environmental movement. And I'm convinced they are the greatest hope for a truly sustainable future on planet earth. by Aashka Merchant, Coordinator for Executive Operations and Special Projects at Amnesty International USA One of the most crucial resources in both activism and the fight for human rights is often the most overlooked and undervalued. With passion, ingenuity and the will to truly enact social change, our young people are the key to progress. Historically, young people have been at the forefront of activism. In the United States, students led demonstrations during the civil rights movement and protests against the Vietnam War. The 1989 protests in Tiananmen Square are arguably one of the most famous student-led demonstrations in history. While young people have been at the forefront of activism for centuries, the tools they use to organize and build their movements are changing rapidly. The advent of social media has absolutely created a monumental sea change for activism and the fight against human rights violations. Platforms like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, Snapchat and more allow young people connect across city limits, state lines and country borders so they can be more informed and engaged than ever before. With these new forms of communication, they no longer have to rely on getting the attention of traditional media in order to have their stories heard. Young people can now circumvent established media and have a direct line to the public in order to inform them of the atrocities and injustices that are occurring. Advertisement Along with being a source of information, social media also allows people to show their solidarity with human rights defenders and build communities around fighting human rights abuses. These communities keep building, including their individual networks, to not only create even greater awareness but also greater impact. Social media can complement and enhance grassroots activism, lifting up emblematic cases and stories that show the broader issues at hand. This in turn can ignite a mass mobilization which forces decision makers to not only pay attention to the issue but also take action to address it. Social media is also giving an unprecedented platform to individual stories, enabling people to connect to issues at a deeper, more personal level. The case of Raif Badawi, sentenced to 10 years in jail and 1,000 lashes by Saudi Arabian authorities simply for blogging, allowed many to truly understand the restrictions on freedom of speech in Saudi Arabia. This is just one example of people truly connecting to a case that has helped them not only understand the broader issue, but feel passionate about fighting these violations. The communities built on social media link people locally and internationally. Young people in the U.S. dealing with discrimination and police brutality are now able to see that this is also an issue in Brazil. It resonates across countries and nationalities and brings perspective on the necessity for worldwide change. During the Arab Spring, protests in Tunisia spread to Egypt, Libya and beyond because through social media, students were able to organize and also spread awareness of the problems that they were confronting. Students across borders dealing with that same issues could take inspiration and know that they are not alone in their struggle. Activists could show solidarity with a movement from thousands of miles away. And these communities continue to rise up against oppression, discrimination and injustice. Even with the shrinking space for human rights activism, with oppressive governments cracking down on those willing to speak up against human rights violations, young people are standing up for their rights. But they are not just the future; they are the present too. We must give these young people the support they need. Often, we invite young people to the table so they can gain experience and learn or to create inclusiveness, but we must allow them to actually participate and fully contribute to the movement. With their grasp of technology, fresh ideas and ability to engage others of their ilk, they are a force to be reckoned with. Given the opportunity, there is no limit to what they can do. Advertisement I lived in Africa in 2008, and pushed our equality in the United Nations in Ethiopia -- where I came to live in abject fear for being gay. If anyone had said the United States was going to make LGBT rights a leading issue at the United Nations -- I would have said that was not going to happen. When Hillary did it in 2011, it was unbelievably huge for activists all over the globe fighting for their lives. After a deep lecture to all nations, she turned to us, to the gay people of the world and said "Where ever you live... Please know that you are not alone. People around the globe are working hard to support you and to bring an end to the injustice and dangers you face. .... And you have an ally in the United States of America. And you have millions of friends among the American people," (23:17 minutes in, listen). In this election year, please share if you've seen it, and watch if you've not, or watch it again. Each time I hear it, I almost can't believe it. The depth. The teaching. The grounding in universal human rights principles, history and profound religious compassion. The comparisons drawn to slavery, female genital mutilation and the refutation of the idea that culture or religion can ever trump human rights. This is a teacher. Advertisement We all need to witness this. And show appropriate gratitude and respect. Hillary 2011, World Stage: "Gay Rights Are Human Rights"! Hillary teaches with wisdom, and brilliant leadership. Offering not a political talk, but an academic one on the law, addressing every conceivable argument against us, each rebuked under established human rights doctrine. Not just a speech, but rather a thesis teaching how fundamental human rights law and principles clearly apply to LGBT people. It shows the power of two great minds, Hillary from Yale law school, and Obama from Harvard. Her talk opens, on the occasion of Human Rights Day, with the story of how the Universal Declaration on Human Rights was drafted, the countless hours and a two year process that included input from around the globe. At three in the morning, on December 10th, 1948, after last minute and all-night negotiations, a vote was called. 48 in favor. 8 abstained. 0 against. And the universal ideal rang out: "All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights." As scholar, Hillary proceeds to explain the basic understanding, that this right is not conferred by government, but by birth right. It doesn't matter what nation or who our leaders are, but "because we are human, we therefor have rights, and because we have rights, governments are bound to protect them." Within this irrefutable context, Hillary announced to the world that she and President Obama were launching together the first campaign ever by the United states to combat LGBT discrimination worldwide. Advertisement No other candidate running for office did this. Hillary Clinton did this. And in 2011 this was vanguard leadership on the global front where this message is not welcomed. Not at all. In fact, it comes at a cost to the United States because many nations resent our pushing this issue. They use it to rile up their own people with accusations of U.S. imperialism and cultural warfare. Gay rights are used against the United State to undermine our influence abroad. So raising this issue comes at a political price. But Hillary, the diplomat, framed it astutely: "I know [this] is sensitive for many people. And that the obstacles standing in the way of protecting the human rights of LGBT people rests on deeply held personal, political, cultural and religious beliefs. So I come here before you with respect, understanding and humility. Even though progress on this front is not easy, we can not delay acting." She then goes on to explain how gay rights and human rights are precisely the same. She explains the extension of human rights to indigenous, children, and people with disabilities, over the last 60 years as we recognized that these groups are entitled to the same protections. This recognition "didn't occur all at once, it came over time," she says, adding that we realized we were affirming "rights people always had." Teach. Then she delivers the message heard around the globe: "Being LGBT does not make you less human. And that is why gay rights are human rights and human rights are gay rights," (8:15 minutes in). Word. Advertisement She even digs into the list the abuses we endure -- the violations of our human rights that we suffer -- like being beaten or killed because of sexual orientation or cultural norms about how men or women should look or behave. "It is a violation," she refrains, to declare it illegal to be gay, or to allow those who hurt us to go unpunished, or when lesbians or transgender women are subject to so called "corrective rape" or forced hormone treatments. It is a violation when people are murdered or forced to flee their nations to save their lives, or denied justice or health care. Preach Hillary. "In reality gay people are born into and belong to every society in the world. They are all ages, all races, all faiths, they are doctors and teachers, farmers and bankers, soldiers and athletes. And whether we know it or, or whether we acknowledge it, they are our family, our friends and our neighbors. Being gay is not a western invention, it is a human reality." Truth. Listen to the speech. This is one for the world history books. By a woman. Like Eleanor Roosevelt, who led the world on human rights when she was our delegate to the United Nations when the Universal Declaration of Human Rights was written. As a mother, she adds: "And to people of all nations, I say supporting human rights is your responsibility too. The lives of gay people are shaped not only by laws, but by the treatment they receive every day. From their families, from their neighbors." Compassion. She then goes on to explain a new task force at the Secretary of State created to implement President Obama's first of its kind, U.S. strategy dedicated to combat abuses against LGBT person abroad. "The President has directed all the U.S. agencies engaged overseas" she proclaims, to work to protect LGBT rights, including an emergency response process for human rights advocates working for LGBT justice. (24:25 minutes in). Advertisement She then calls the question: "Be on the right side of history. The story of the United States is the story of a nation that has repeatedly grappled with intolerance and inequality. We fought a brutal civil war over slavery. People from coast to coast joined in campaigns to recognize the rights of women, indigenous peoples, racial minorities, children, people with disabilities, immigrants, workers, and on and on. And the march toward equality and justice has continued. Those who advocate for expanding the circle of human rights were and are on the right side of history. And History honors them. Those who tried to constrict human rights were wrong. And history reflects that as well. " Boom. Each winter, the waterfalls of northern Illinois freeze, creating spectacular formations of ice just begging for exploration. This year's icefalls were fleeting. Due to the fluctuating warm/cold temperatures, they appeared in a matter of days, and were gone just as quickly. With a bit of planning, and cooperation from cold weather, I was able to photograph them at their peak. North central Illinois is home to Starved Rock and Matthiessen State Parks, two recreation areas near Utica, a town along the Illinois River. Over time, the river and several feeder streams cut into the rock of this area, forming deep canyons. At the head of many of these canyons are waterfalls, and while they're not rushing falls, they are seasonally active. In winter, even a small trickle of water can eventually form a huge icefall, which is the case with these particular canyons. Most of the icefalls are hidden from passersby, requiring park visitors to hike into the blind canyons to discover them. The icefalls often reveal themselves dramatically after hikers round the final turn in the canyon, so the condition of the ice is never known until the last minute - but still worth the hike even if the ice has not yet formed. Advertisement Our search for frozen waterfalls brought us to Starved Rock's LaSalle canyon. Shallower than other canyons in the park, it creates one of the more dramatic icefalls. LaSalle Canyon is one of the few canyons in Starved Rock State Park where one can easily walk behind the waterfall, whether it is frozen or liquid. In fact, the trail leads hikers under the canyon's rock outcropping. This provides a unique view of the canyon in any season. Many of the other falls can be accessed from behind if hikers don't mind crawling, climbing, or getting wet. This canyon is a bit of a hike from the visitor's center, and in wet times of year, a waterfall of approximately 20 feet cascades into the canyon. In winter, the falling water freezes into intricate and very large ice formations. The large undercut in the rock creates a shelter under the falling water, where visitors can hike. When frozen, the falls create an ice cave of sorts, giving hikers the opportunity to see the ice from behind, illuminated by the light of day. During recent cold periods, the waterfalls froze, creating pillars of ice that clung to the top of the rock outcroppings - much like stalactites in caves. The water that dripped to the ground gathered and froze, creating mounds of round ice much like cave stalagmites. Eventually they joined together to form a thick column of ice. The current warm periods of weather melted the columns of ice a bit, and they have fallen to the ground in piles at the base of the falls. These chunks of ice measure about four feet in length and more than a foot in diameter. The intricate patterns created by the dripping water made these columns appear like giant mineral crystals. Advertisement One of the tallest icefalls at Starved Rock is in Wildcat Canyon. At an estimated 80 feet tall, this icefall grows to approximately 20 feet in diameter, and dwarfs anyone nearby. It's common to see ice climbers attempt to conquer this frozen waterfall. See my post from last year. Wildcat is one of the few canyons in the area where hikers can view the canyon from almost every direction, top to bottom. Many of the canyons are accessible from the floor only, but Wildcat gives visitors the option to look into the canyon from the rim, high above. With a bit of determination, I climbed up the icy rock and onto the first canyon shelf behind the icefall, for a unique look up at the falls and the canyon ceiling. Up close, the intricate patterns of ice come into view. With every drop of water from above, tiny icicles form on top of each other, from the overhang and from the ground, until the lacy ice interlocks and forms the giant icefall. Wildcat Canyon is one of the easiest canyons to reach at Starved Rock State Park. It's rather close to the visitor center, and the trail from the lodge is fairly flat and easy. But visitors should be prepared for plenty of stairs if they plan on heading down to the floor of the canyon. Advertisement Next on the list was Tonty Canyon, a blind canyon with two waterfalls, one being about 60 feet in height. This canyon is tucked away and a bit of a trek from any parking area, but worth the hike. Following the often narrow trail that winds about 20 feet above the canyon floor can be a bit tricky in wet weather, but add ice and it becomes dangerous. The danger was so evident during our visit that park officials had closed the trail on one end, forcing us to walk to LaSalle Canyon first, just to double back to Tonty. And of course, leaving the canyon meant doubling back again through LaSalle. The two waterfalls were frozen, but this one in particular was more complete and ornate in its ice formations. The melting snow above fed the icefall, and temperatures below freezing helped to build the icefalls. Quite a distance away, Ottawa Canyon is a blind canyon with a generally low flowing waterfall approximately 50 feet in height. The low flow portion of this waterfall is evident in the giant icicle pictured below. This ice formation is at least 40 feet long. The ice formation stretches from the rim of the canyon to a point 4 inches short of the floor. If the water was more plentiful, the ice would have built up from the bottom as well, since the falling water would freeze and pile upward. We see this in most every other waterfall in these canyons. The main portion of the icefall in Ottawa Canyon is formed in a more typical manner. Ice hangs from the rim and ice builds from the floor until the two meet. This canyon is such that visitors can easily walk around the icefall and see the formation from all angles. The size of the column of ice is impressive. Advertisement Other interesting features of this canyon include the horizontal bands of color in the rock. This provides a great contrast to the vertical ice formations. When sunlit, the dark bands take on a warm hue against the bands of cooler colored rock. Image credit: Pete R., BucketListly. The first time I heard about Vipassana meditation was back in 2014 when my friend and business partner Prean decided to take a break in a hectic startup world and realign his values and vision for life. I have never been that much into meditation and taking a 10-day course seemed like a very strange thing. It felt like it's highly connected with religion and as I am not very particularly religious I thought it may not be for me, however, after reading numerous of articles about successful people and their routines I have noticed that they practice mindfulness and meditate daily. I had to give it a try, more than a year ago, just before starting my digital nomad adventures I started meditating using Calm app, I didn't find it particularly impressive so it didn't stick with me. Then I've discovered Headspace, what I liked about it was that Andy Puddicombe explained everything in a simple, yet meaningful way. What I learned about meditation were the following things: You don't have to force yourself to stop thinking. Thoughts will never disappear, you need to let them come and go. It's about focusing on the present and not worrying about the past and future. You don't need to change anything, thoughts, emotions, feelings, just accept them. Our mind is like a clear sky, but there are clouds from time to time, meditation helps get back the clarity we want. After some sessions, I've started to notice the benefits of taking the time to observe the environment, breathe and relax. I've been meditating for over a year now, quite inconsistently, though, but was always agitating my friends to try it out, just for three days and then quit if they don't see the benefits. Why would I consider going silent for 10 days? It's always a great idea to stop, look back where you have been, think about where you are going and reflect on your life, relationships and surrounding world. I am extremely grateful for the people in my life and my current position that allows me to travel the world, improve myself in every possible way and build a business that not only supports my ventures but helps also people. I haven't really had holidays for about a year and disconnecting from all the electronic devices, internet and people sounded like a good idea to evaluate everything I've done, experienced and learned. I think it's a good idea to restart myself, calm down and get down to the essentials to understand what is truly important for me and what I want in life. Vipassana meditation course in Chiang Mai Vipassana meditation is an ancient practice taught by Buddhas, in which mindfulness of breathing and of thoughts, feelings and actions are being used to gain insight in the true nature of reality. Advertisement It is often translated as "insight" or "clear-seeing," it also may mean "seeing deeply." -- Wikipedia After coming to Northern Thailand, a beautiful city in the mountains called Chiang Mai, I knew it was the time to finally do it. One Saturday afternoon, after watching "Seven Years in Tibet" I've made my mind and booked a room to attend the Vipassana meditation course for 10 days. Meditator guidelines The course is very strict and comes with clear guidelines for meditators. You're not allowed to mix the practice with other meditation techniques or yoga, tai chi, aerobics. No smoking and drinking alcohol. No solid food after midday. No speaking with people. No reading, writing, listening to music, using Internet, telephone. Daily routine 5 am: Wake up time 5:30 am: Dhamma talk 7 am: Breakfast 8 am: Morning meditation 11 am: Lunch 12:30 pm: Afternoon meditation 1:30 pm: Meditation report 2:30 pm: Afternoon meditation 6 pm: Evening chanting 7 pm: Evening meditation 9 pm: Day ends How I felt before and throughout the course? Honestly, I was quite nervous and scared of the experience, I tried to calm myself down by telling that it's good for me, it's a break from the world and all the noise. After all it's just spending time on my own and developing myself. I was confident I can do it, no matter how hard it would be, I wouldn't quit. Advertisement The first couple of days were extremely hard, I was bombarded with my old habits and cravings for instant gratification, like social media, coffee, the internet, music, reading, eating whatever available at any time. First seven days were going very slowly and my mind was going crazy, all the memories, thoughts, feelings and emotions were mixing up and making a big noise in my head, I was thinking about all sorts of things, moments that I hated when I was a kid, I would find enjoyable, like washing dishes after Christmas lunch with my family, because I could recall that warmth and connection with my family, I could recall how much love I have in this world even when some adversity comes along the way. After numerous of Dhamma talks, which are the teachings of Buddha taught by a monk I learned to forgive myself, let go, accept things as they are and move on. If you are sad to the world, the world is sad for you, but if you smile to the world, the world smiles for you. On the morning of the 8th day, I felt a strange relief, thanks to a monk who was telling that we forget to relax when meditating, we just do it because it's good for us but don't really enjoy it. I think for me it was the breakthrough point, I accepted everything, I accepted the fact that I am spending my time in the meditation center voluntarily and I came to enjoy the experience, relax and find myself. Advertisement On the last day I knew, I love my life how it is, there are so many incredible things that happened to me already, so many people I love surround me and there is not much I want to change but just need to appreciate it more, express my gratitude and show people that I care. Meditation is a never-ending practice and my goal is to never stop purifying my mind, praising the moment and seeing more clearly. Lessons I learned Recognition of emotions -- I am able to identify my emotions and feelings better and not get angry for being sad, instead I am able to get to the root of sadness, understand that it comes from the past and just let it be. With time, it will dissolve. A sense of calmness -- I am calmer and can enjoy things more by simply doing them slower and reminding myself about the present moment, so if I am drinking coffee, I'd notice and tell that in my mind, I'm drinking coffee, drinking coffee, drinking coffee so my mind gets back from circling around. The suffering and negative emotions come from me, not other people -- I've learnt that people don't hurt me, I hurt myself by poisoning my mind with negative emotions and simply blaming other people or the world for whatever bad happens to me. Awareness of the inner monologue and disguised thoughts -- sometimes I was just sitting, staring at the tree and thinking nothing, at least I thought I was thinking nothing. After some time, I started to uncover thoughts that were running circles in my head and I was simply not aware of them. Meditation allowed me to become more aware of thinking. Advertisement I see worrying and problems differently -- before the course I would get stressed about my personal and professional goals, about all the possible bad scenarios that can happen to my health, my family, my friends, my future. I've learnt to move on -- most of the Dhamma talks were emphasizing the fact that life goes on, you may have lost everything but your mind so all you need to do is to move on. Good or bad, it will always change, find the strength and move on. Forgiving myself -- I am very competitive and have big dreams, I used to beat myself and feel guilty for not delivering on plans, not achieving as much as I potentially could. Enjoy the process, be proud of your work because no one is perfect, someone had to remind me that. I've learnt to enjoy being on my own -- I have never ever in my life have been separated from human interaction for so long, there was no one to speak to, no one to listen to, just me and my crazy thoughts. Sometimes I'd bring up sad memories, sometimes happy memories, sometimes angry ones, but at the end it was all me and my mind. I can't run away from it so being more aware of it and accepting everything had made me more relaxed. I don't need to constantly look for quick fixes -- there is no way you can do something and miracle will happen, whatever you decide to give up or learn it's a long process, take it step by step and you will start seeing results, but it will take time. Advertisement The world slowed down -- I don't have that extreme urge to consume, experience one thing and move on to the other one, I am more aware of the urgency and have enough willpower to say no, slow down, take a deep breath and be present, even for a short moment. I am able to sit still longer -- I can focus on things longer, I can ignore urges, like scratching, feeling hot or cold, feeling emotionally high or low and just focus on whoever is speaking, whatever is happening and bring myself back from wandering in my thoughts. Want to take the course? If you ever consider doing a Vipassana retreat, simply Google it to find the nearest Buddhist centre, or check the Vipassana Meditation website. If you're visiting Chiang Mai, check Doi Suthep Vipassana Meditation Center. All meditation courses run by donation. How you decide to reflect and slow down it's your decision. Have you had any meditation experiences? How do you practice mindfulness? I'd like to hear your experiences. Subscribe to my email list for more inspiring stories. A version of this post originally appeared at tomaslau.com. A founding principle of the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is protecting the public interest in communications - in television, radio, internet and new emerging mediums. In a country of increasing diversity, the public interest is not a "one size fits all" proposition. In the United States of 2016, the public interest must serve a Spanish-speaking mother in Los Angeles as well as it serves a rural rancher in South Dakota or a millennial urbanite in Brooklyn. As an industry, broadcast television has long served the largest number of Americans with its mass, free, over-the-air broadcasts. For this reason, Media Alliance finds it troubling that the FCC's current re-examination of the rules for exclusivity may jeopardize local broadcast television as it exists today. The Commission is in the process of reexamining rules which allow broadcasters to negotiate the terms of use for broadcast content to be disseminated to cable providers. Advertisement As it stands, broadcasters count on the revenue stream that comes from content negotiations with pay-TV providers. If the current system is upended, some local stations across the country will face the very real possibility of having to shut down due to a lack of adequate funding, because they are not being compensated for their own content. If stations were forced to shut down, it would be the stations that do not garner the most viewers - including stations that serve minority communities, for example. Spanish-language broadcast networks - such as Univision or Telemundo - are often not viewed at the high levels of their English-language counterparts such as NBC or CBS, simply because many communities have fewer Spanish-speaking residents. Yet, these stations are sometimes the only avenue for low-income families who cannot afford other types of media to get their news and information: from severe weather alerts, to community events, to a roundup of local and national news. If these stations were forced to shut their doors because of fewer viewers, many families that depend upon them could be quite literally left in the dark The current exclusivity rules preserve diversity in broadcast programming. And while there is nowhere near enough diversity, taking actions to further reduce it in order to increase profit levels for cable providers is not in the public interest. Media Alliance has long been interested in protecting diversity in media, and holding government accountable for any action taken to decrease diversity in favor of increased corporate profits. It is clear that any action taken by the FCC to change these rules will have a disproportionately negative impact on small, over-the-air broadcasters, many who are minority-owned or serve minority audiences. Advertisement We believe that the current exclusivity rules should be preserved by the FCC. Any change to these regulations is a win for Big Cable and a terrible loss for small broadcasters across the country and the local communities in which they serve. The "public interest" that the FCC must protect includes Americans who have affordability challenges with pay TV and high-speed broadband access and the FCC must recognize this when considering how it should act on this important issue. PERU More than four hundred students from high schools in Nebraska, Iowa, Missouri and Kansas competed for scholarships and awards at Peru State Colleges 43rd Annual High School Business Contest on Wednesday, February 10, 2016. Competitions were held in fifteen different disciplines and each first place winner will receive a $500 tuition scholarship for on-campus classes at Peru State College. The top five students in each category also received a medal. Among the participating high schools were Auburn, Falls City High, Freeman Public, HTRS, Johnson County Central, Sterling Public Schools, Tri County and Wymore Southern. Local students who made the top five in each discipline: Accounting Second Adrian Whittmann, Auburn High School Advanced Accounting Second Grant Moles, Johnson County Central Fifth Bailey Kuhlmann, HTRS Business Law Third Trenton Plager, HTRS Fourth John Kanel, HTRS Business Math Fifth Trenton Plager, HTRS Computer Concepts Third Grant Moles, Johnson County Central Keyboarding 1 (Skills) Third Camille Frey, HTRS Web Page Design Fourth Adrian Whittmann, Auburn High School By Erin Magner for Well+Good You might say Indra Devi was the Madonna of the yoga world in the early 20th century, credited as she was with bringing Hatha yoga to the West. Born to a teenage mother in 1899 Russia, the beloved teacher's life was all about reinvention. After debuting as a Berlin cabaret performer in her early twenties, she went on a spiritual pilgrimage to India, starred in a Bollywood film (where she was given her adopted Indian name), learned yoga from one of the master teachers of the day, and went on to instruct socialites in Shanghai, film stars in Los Angeles, and flower children in Mexico. RELATED: What I Learned About Life From Yoga Teacher Training Clearly, Devi's tale is the stuff best-sellers are made of, so it's not surprising that journalist Michelle Goldberg would choose to chronicle it in The Goddess Pose: The Audacious Life of Indra Devi, the Woman Who Helped Bring Yoga to the West. While the book is full of rich history and insider anecdotes, Devi's story is also a guide to living fearlessly and unconventionally -- even when, like her, you're living in a war zone or being investigated by the FBI. (Or, you know, when work is crazy and your apartment is a mess.) Advertisement Though she certainly had her flaws (you can read more on that in the book), there are plenty of reasons to be inspired by the original yoga-lebrity. Next time you need a hit of empowerment, consider channeling these seven elements of Devi's one-of-a-kind character -- and send her a mental thank-you note for bringing savasana to our shores. 1. She followed her intuition. When Devi discovered Hatha yoga as a bright-eyed spiritual seeker in India, it was totally unfashionable -- disgraceful, even. "It was widely seen as the province of magicians, con men, and sideshow contortionists," writes Goldberg. Even so, the actress had a hunch that asanas would help with her chronic anxiety attacks, so she pursued the practice anyway. RELATED: 3 Successful Ways To Deal With Your Anxiety 2. She refused to take "no" for an answer. Devi was intent on studying with Tirumalai Krishnamacharya -- brother-in-law and teacher of B.K.S. Iyengar. But when she approached him, he bluntly told her that his shala was dudes-only and showed her the door. That didn't faze Devi -- she just went over his head to the maharaja of Mysore, who ordered Krishnamacharya to admit her as his first foreign, female student. 3. She used movement as medicine. After moving to Shanghai with her husband, Devi opened her first "studio" in a bungalow owned by Madame Chiang Kai-Shek, the then-First Lady of China. Her five daily yoga classes attracted hundreds of students each week, most of them American expats. Many reported relief from chronic conditions like asthma, insomnia, and headaches -- so much for sorcery. Advertisement Stephanie Hammond, Policy Advisor, Conflicts and Disasters, World Vision The Syrian conflict and the resulting refugee crisis in the region and across Europe has dominated media headlines for months. And the numbers of those affected are likely to continue to grow. Within the past month, tens of thousands of vulnerable civilians have been displaced from their homes in northern Syria, many for the second or third time. Just last week World Vision released photos of a newborn babies and children's hospital impacted by bombing - one of the many examples of the most innocent getting caught up in the brutality of this conflict. The conflict has left an estimated 13.5 million people, including over 6 million children, in need of humanitarian assistance and protection inside Syria alone. For those who have managed to flee the conflict, half of the refugee population comprises children, meaning that over 2 million Syrian children are growing up as refugees. This has left at least 8.2 million children inside Syria and across the region who now experience displacement, interrupted schooling, broken health systems, food insecurity, and limited protection from serious harm and abuse. Despite these numbers, the unique needs of refugee children are largely ignored when responding to this massive refugee crisis. There is not enough attention on what actually happens to refugees once they have escaped the violence and attempt to cope with the terror they have experienced. Tragically, there are few systems in place to protect children and help them recover from the distressing events they've witnessed. Advertisement The Syrian crisis has produced the largest refugee population in a generation. These children represent Syria's future and the chance to rebuild their nation, but they need support to heal and opportunities for education. I was recently in Serbia, interviewing Syrian refugees who had fled violence in their homeland. The story of one five-year-old girl, Nisa, particularly struck me: Nisa held a blue crayon and started to draw on a clean, white sheet of paper. She was surrounded by brightly colored walls, pictures of cartoon characters, balls, bubbles, and dolls in one of World Vision's child-friendly spaces in Serbia along the European refugee route. This young girl and her family fled violence in Syria and were now making their way through Europe to gain refuge in Germany. Little Nisa quietly drew her picture as her family waited at the train station to embark on the next leg of their journey. Nisa's delicate hand began to sweep her crayon across the bottom of the paper, drawing broad blue strokes that quickly turned into dramatic waves. She reached for a brown crayon, drew an arch on the top of the water, and sketched a small boat. She then drew circles in the boat and completed them with eyes, ears, and straight lines for mouths. As her hand then moved to the left of the boat, she drew the same circles floating on top of the waves, drowning... Advertisement Nisa, like many other refugee children, experienced the horror of war and its devastating aftermath. These children are processing the impact of seeing their homes and schools bombed, witnessing their family or friends perish, escaping from Syria, and living as refugees in Jordan, Lebanon, or Turkey where there is limited humanitarian relief and education opportunities, as well as few employment options for their parents. Deteriorating living conditions in neighboring countries have prompted many families to risk a very dangerous and expensive journey towards Europe, not even sure if their final destination will take them in. The treacherous journey from Syria, through Turkey, and then across the Mediterranean had a clear impact on Nisa. From Turkey, refugees are often smuggled in rickety, inflatable dinghies as they cross to Greece. One refugee mother in Serbia with whom I spoke recounted how they were in knee-high water during their entire voyage across the sea. For too many children, the distress of making this journey is amplified by having to travel alone. Thousands and thousands of unaccompanied children flee from the horror of violence in their home countries without their parents or families. A World Vision staff member told me about a twelve-year-old girl she met the week before. She found out that this young girl's mother was kidnapped in Syria. She waited for months, but never received any word about her whereabouts. Eventually, she decided to escape Syria. This girl cried when she described the difficulty of making that decision. She felt like she was leaving behind her mother forever. All refugee children have a right to be awarded safety and protection, but unaccompanied refugee children are particularly vulnerable to abuse and exploitation. A comprehensive protection mechanism for unaccompanied children is needed across European migration routes. This protection mechanism should include case management and case tracking that involves humanitarian actors such as UN agencies, civil society, and national governments to ensure access to a formal, confidential cross-country referral pathway. In addition, many children affected by the crisis need psychosocial support as they process their severely stressful experiences. Their childhood has been marked by destruction and violence. Programs designed to respond to the needs of refugees should prioritize this critical programming, especially for children. An entire generation of Syrian children could experience long-term mental, social, and economic problems if the stress and emotional impact of their war-time experiences are not addressed. Without the means for children to receive support, rebuild their lives and gain essential skills, conditions are being created that will transmit poverty across generations, fuel social instability and undermine prospects for recovery. As refugee-hosting countries continue to accept vulnerable refugees, we must remember not only their physical needs, but their emotional needs as well. These refugees have experienced the loss of loved ones and have been uprooted from their homes. Syria's conflict has already displaced half of the country. What will happen to the next generation of Syria's children if we do not act now to end the conflict and plan for recovery to remove the long shadow already cast over the lives of Syrian children? World Vision has helped more than two million people in Syria, Jordan, Lebanon and Turkey, providing critical food and cash aid, hygiene support, health programmes, psychosocial support, and clean water, sanitation and hygiene services - always with a focus on children. For more information click here. Advertisement Dear All, Its seven months since we started Catch and Im very proud of the media platform weve collectively created. One of the greatest pleasures of this time has been to work with a wonderful, young, high-calibre team like you. A lot has been achieved. Yet, were only at the beginning of what Id hoped would be a very fulfilling journey together. The adrenalin of creating Catch was to push the boundaries; find ways to marry old values of journalism with new modes of story-telling; break the usual silos. There are so many ideas still waiting to be set into motion; stands to be taken; stories to be done. However, Im writing to tell you with great regret, it seems I will no longer be able to lead the team or share that journey with you. In a completely unexpected development, on 27 February, I was called to Jaipur by the director of finance and told that, since Catch has now been successfully created and stabilized, Patrika no longer wants to keep me on as its editor-in-chief. I was asked to stop coming to work from Monday, 29 February. To say I am stunned by this arbitrary behavior would be an understatement. Catch was not a functioning institution I walked into: it is something I helped create from scratch. To be abruptly divorced from it like this seems a real injustice, to say the least. Financially, Catch belongs to Patrika. Terminating a contract is their prerogative. However, I would like to address the team at 4 pmtoday. Despite the usual ups and downs of proprietor-editor dynamics, Ive had very cordial dealings with Patrika, Siddharth, Nihar and their families and I appreciate the opportunity they gave me to create something Im proud of. I am, therefore, doubly saddened and shocked by this. Youve been an energizing, inspiring, livewire team to work with. You have incredible potential. I sincerely hope Patrika will back that all the way. I know this will come as a shock to all of you. As it has been for me. I wish it was otherwise. Warmly, Shoma mattwicks via Getty Images Oswiecim, Poland. BERLIN -- A 95-year-old former Nazi SS paramedic at the Auschwitz death camp, accused of being an accomplice to the murder of thousands, is to stand trial in Germany on Monday, one in a series of such recent cases. Hubert Zafke was serving as a medic in the SS at the biggest death camp in occupied Poland where he was deployed in 1943. During the trial, he will be faced with the accounts of at least two witnesses. Advertisement Prosecutors in the northern German city of Schwerin say that Zafke, in his function as a medic, supported the slaughter at Auschwitz, where over 1.2 million people, most of them Jews, were killed. Zafke was responsible for treating SS members in case of sickness, not any of the inmates, but prosecutors say he was stationed directly on the path leading to the gas chambers. According to initial investigations, Zafke did not deny having been an SS member at Auschwitz but he maintains not to have witnessed anything about the killings. The prosecutors say that, among being a witness to these gas chambers walks, he also must have been aware of the constant smoke arising from the crematoriums. A precedent for such cases was set in 2011, when former Nazi guard John Demjanjuk was sentenced for being an accessory to the Nazis' mass murder during the Holocaust. Advertisement Demjanjuk's conviction, allowing the pursuit of those involved in the death camp apparatus even if no individual murder could be proven, paved the way for late Nazi trials, with at least four Auschwitz cases scheduled this year alone. Germany's Nazi past has weighed heavily on the country and even today forms the backdrop to national debates on issues such as how to deal with refugees of war. These latest Nazi trials, among the last as that generation dies out, may help draw a line under this chapter in the country's history. Trials are kept short on health grounds because the age of the accused. Zafke's charges focus on a month-long period between August and September 1944, when 14 deportation trains from Poland, Slovenia, Greece, Germany and the Netherlands arrived at the camp. One carried Anne Frank, the German-born Jewish writer, whose "Diary of a young girl" became one of the most widely known witness accounts of the Holocaust, documenting her life in hiding during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Anne Frank and her sister Margot were eventually transferred westwards to the Bergen-Belsen concentration camp, where they died shortly before its liberation in April 1945. Advertisement Zafke has already been charged abroad for his role at Auschwitz. In 1946, a Polish court sentenced him to four years in prison. Afterwards, Zafke returned to Germany, where he worked as an agricultural salesman. Contact HuffPost India Also On HuffPost: Hindustan Times via Getty Images PANIPAT, INDIA - FEBRUARY 23: A damaged Amusement park on National Highway 1, at Murthal town after Jat protests for reservation in government services turned violent on February 23, 2016 in Panipat, India. Jats are agitating for quotas in jobs and want to be counted as a part of Other Backward Classes, a section that has 27% quotas in government jobs. (Photo by Ravi Kumar/Hindustan Times via Getty Images) SONIPAT -- Days after allegations of rape and molestation by Jat quota agitators near Haryana's Murthal, a woman today came forward and registered a case of gangrape against seven people, including her brother-in-law, in connection with the incident. "An FIR has been lodged against seven persons in connection with a gangrape on the basis of a complaint filed by a Narela-based woman today," Haryana Police, DIG, Rajshree Singh told reporters. Advertisement She said the victim had alleged she was raped on the intervening night of February 22-23 and the perpetrators included her brother-in-law. The complainant said she knew all of them. The officer, who heads a three-member team of women police officers constituted by the Haryana government to go into alleged incidents of rape and molestation of several women by Jat protesters, however, said a "family dispute" could be the reason behind the woman filing the complaint. The officer said the victim was not sure about the exact scene of the crime but claimed she was raped in a building near Murthal when she was on way to Narela in Delhi from Haridwar on a van. The woman, however, said her 15-year-old daughter, who was accompanying her was not raped but her clothes were torn. Advertisement The DIG said the woman had called her up yesterday and her statement was recorded today. Singh said said most of the complaints she was receiving was from men who claimed their vehicles had been damaged by the agitators. Earlier, some locals, including truck drivers, had claimed they had seen women being dragged to the fields by the protesters. TV channels showed footage of garments worn by women strewn in some places. Some village heads had, however, trashed their claims and described it as an attempt to defame the people of the area. Earlier in the day, three truck drivers had denied having witnessed any incident of sexual assault or rape even as Chief Minister M L Khattar said the guilty shall not go unpunished. Advertisement Contact HuffPost India Also On HuffPost: ASSOCIATED PRESS Former Indian prime minister Manmohan Singh, sits with the newly elected office bearers of Calling the union budget 2016 a mixed bag budget and criticising it for the want of any big idea, former Prime Minister Manmohan Singh on Monday said it is impossible to double the farmers income in five years as claimed in the budget. "It is a nit-picking budget. There is no big idea except one that was mentioned yesterday by the Prime Minister himself, that the government plans to double the farmers' income in the next five years. I think it is an impossible dream and there is no inclination, no way of telling the country how it will be achieved because it implies a 14% annual increase in the farm income in each of the five years, ," Singh said. Advertisement In his budget speech, finance minister Arun Jaitley said farmers income will be doubled by 2022 as 28.5 lakh hectares of land will be brought under irrigation. Jaitley announced an allocation of Rs 47,900 crore for agriculture and irrigation, which is almost double from the last years figure. The opposition called the budget a "mere rhetoric" and said the government will not be able to "fool" farmers with "hollow promises". Modiji spent the first 2 years mocking the Congress Party's focus on farmers, MNREGA, Rural dev & social spending (1/3) Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 29, 2016 In a sharp attack on the government, the Congress said it has "failed to create an immediate stimulus" to address economic challenges including employment generation with former the former prime minister, a well-known economist, holding that it lacked any "big idea". Advertisement Asserting that the budget was short of both "vision and conviction", party vice president Rahul Gandhi said a list of new promises have been made without any account of the "failure of tall promises made in last two budgets". Budget2016 lacks both vision &conviction.A list of new promises w/o any account of the failure of tall promises made in last 2 budgets!(3/3) Office of RG (@OfficeOfRG) February 29, 2016 He, however, thanked Jaitley for accepting his recommendation on removing import duty on Braille paper which will help the visually impaired. Criticising the budget, CPI(M) general secretary Sitaram Yechury said it was full of "hollow promises" and will burden commoners who will feel the pinch of hike in indirect tax. FM says Budget is about fulfilling 'desires & dreams' but it has no vision. The dead certainty from it is of a shrinking economy. Sitaram Yechury (@SitaramYechury) February 29, 2016 (With inputs from PTI) Contact HuffPost India In an attempt to curb public urination in the city, the Hyderabad traffic police has come up with the best passive-aggressive solution ever. They have decided to felicitate the offenders by putting garlands around their necks. Speaking about the initiative, Additional Commissioner of Police (Traffic) Jitender, told ANI that such campaigns raised public awareness about sanitation and personal hygiene. Sub-Inspector of Traffic Police, N Rama Krishna said that the initiative was a part of the 'Swachh Hyderabad' drive, and would help keep the city clean. Advertisement Last week, the Uttar Pradesh State Road Transport Corporation (UPSRTC) decided to post images of people who urinated in public on YouTube. They announced that they would install CCTV cameras at various bus stops to record offenders, and anyone caught red-handed would have to deal with the embarrassment of being shown online. In the past, several desperate attempts have been made to put a stop to public urination in the country, with measures including pasting tiles of religious figures on public walls, charging fines, and in one case, a water cannon. Advertisement Contact HuffPost India Also On HuffPost: Hutchinson's Orscheln Farm store has become a Bomgaars location The Hutchinson store was one of 73 the FTC said Tractor Supply could not own due to anti-trust concerns. Transition to new store could take 15 months. A severe hurricane hasnt hit Florida since 2005, but residents are still paying the highest homeowners rates in the country, according to a report from the National Association of Insurance Commissioners.Average insurance premiums in the state totaled $2,115 in 2013, up from $2,084 the previous year, and almost twice the national average of $1,096.The NAIC report, released early last week, shares the average annual bill consumers face for home coverage. Some states, like Florida, stood out like sore thumbs, thanks to higher-than-average rates of catastrophe, as well as factors like population density and real estate and construction costs.In descending order, the states with the highest average costs for homeowners insurance include:10. Massachusetts - $1,2639. Connecticut - $1,2748. Alabama - $1,3237. Rhode Island - $1,3346. Kansas - $1,3435. Mississippi - $1,3954. Oklahoma - $1,6543. Louisiana - $1,8222. Texas - $1,8371. Florida - $2,115Though insurance companies defend the higher rates in these states, consumer advocates particularly those in Florida are speaking out against what they feel are disproportionate costs.The annual premium increases are not justified, Nicole Vinson, a Tampa insurance attorney and head of Policyholders of Florida, told the Palm Beach Post. In addition to paying more, policyholders are receiving less coverage than our neighboring states, even those on coastlines.Insurers, meanwhile, say attorneys, contractors and other parties have artificially inflated claims for things like plumbing leaks, which cause rates to increase even in non-hurricane years.Others argue that the absence of hurricanes in the past 10 years does not preclude the possibility of their return.Florida has the highest property insurance rates because it has the nations highest insured catastrophe losses and that remains true despite 10 storm-free years, said Lynne McChristian, a Florida representative for the Insurance Information Institute.McChristian pointed to Floridas $68 billion in insured catastrophe losses during the period of 1985 to 2014.And it isnt just private insurers. Florida Lieutenant Governor Carlos Lopez-Cantera told a state Senate panel this year that state-run Citizens Property Insurance Corp. needed to raise rates in South Florida for the same reason.This is a growing problem, he said. Theres significant evidence this is leading to higher premiums.Vinson, however, says the idea of a water claims crisis is dubious.Sadly, I have to advise my clients not to be surprised premiums increase but the coverage is less than it was last year, she said. Floridians should pay close attention because the coverage for residential claims is being sliced and diced but the price tag is going up.On the opposite end of the spectrum, consumers paying the least for homeowners insurance in 2013 lived in Idaho ($561), Oregon ($568), Utah ($609), Wisconsin ($665) and Washington state ($676). National program administrator Venture Insurance Programs announced last week the acquisition of a North Carolina-based managing general underwriter.Tidal Solutions serves the North American specialty commercial marine market, giving Venture an expanded portfolio of marine industry-specific programs. The products include hull and machinery, protection and indemnity, general liability and maritime employers liability coverage.The products will be marketed nationwide by Venture under the brand TIDAL MARINE through Ventures agent and broker network.Venture also intends to integrate and broaden Tidals commercial marine offerings, the company said in a news release.The extensive experience of Tidal Solutions management team in the marine and energy space, along with their established platform and exclusive supply provides a great value proposition, said Philip J. Harvey, president of Venture Insurance Programs. This opportunity further enhances our goal of providing superior offerings as a strong advocate for our agents and brokers.Tidal Solutions management will stay with the company, and current CEO David Pearlstein will assume the role of executive vice president on Ventures management team. Damon Vaughan has been named senior vice president, marine program management/development, and Keith Lovatt will lead marine sales as senior vice president. Keith Warncken will act as senior vice president over marine underwriting.The team will be responsible for expanding the marine program across the country, as well as research and development and general management.Pearlstein praised the deal as key for improving the company and delivering greater value.Ventures broad marketing reach, substantial infrastructure and proven track record in building successful national insurance programs makes them a perfect fit for our specialty marine team, he said. We will be focused on driving value through the delivery of our industry expertise, unique products and solution-oriented service offerings to brokers on a national basis.The acquisition will expand Ventures current network of servicing offices from West Chester, Pennsylvania and Jupiter, Florida to include Charlotte, North Carolina, Walnut Creek, California and Berkeley Heights, New Jersey. Letter: Sanders Stands for Social, Economic Justice To the Editor: Last Monday, I had the opportunity to hear Bernie Sanders speak at the Mullen Center at the University of Massachusetts. His analysis of what happened to the American economy in the financial crisis of 2008 is right on the money. While the big banks were fined, it is a terrible thing that no one was held accountable for the destruction of the life savings, loss of homes, loss of pensions and loss of jobs for many tens of thousands of Americans. As a community banker for 36 years, I found this to be reprehensible. I can assure you that our local community banks and credit unions scattered around the Berkshires were never part of this problem. In what Senator Sanders refers to as a "rigged economy," he speaks to wealth inequity, equal pay for equal work, affordable higher education and strengthening of our Social Security system. He speaks to women's rights, gay rights and racial justice. He is passionate about caring for our veterans, creating opportunity for our disabled and protecting our seniors. Finally, he is focused on rebuilding our infrastructure: bridges, roads and rail so that we can remain a competitive nation and look like a country that takes pride in itself. Richard Alcombright Alcombright is mayor of North Adams One of the most beneficial steps we can take to grow our economy is to reform our broken, outdated tax code. International tax reform is an important part of this overhaul to make the United States a more competitive place to invest and create jobs. At 39.1 percent, the U.S. has the highest corporate tax rate among OECD countries. The OECD, or the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development, has recently been recommending tax measures which would disproportionately harm U.S. businesses and further erode our countrys tax base. Additionally, the European Union is conducting state aid investigations which could impose 10 years worth of retroactive taxes on American businesses. These global developments compound the main problem: Our federal government is taxing U.S. employers more than other countries tax theirs. The U.S. is also the only major economy where businesses face double taxation, with profits taxed in both the country where they are earned and again when they are returned to be reinvested in domestic operations. Many nations around the world have been actively reforming their international tax codes, resulting in more job creation and economic growth. This makes competing in an international marketplace more difficult for U.S. companies, both here and abroad. Through international tax reform, an estimated $2 trillion in U.S. profits could be brought home. When I talk with Nebraskans, many are curious about the potential benefits of international tax reform for our state. According to Business Roundtable, companies which operate internationally provide 40 percent of Nebraskas total private-sector employment. Incentivizing these employers to stay in the U.S. and invest their earnings into Nebraska communities is crucial. On Tuesday, I spoke with seniors from Lawrence-Nelson High School. Among many topics, we discussed their dream jobs and the state of our economy. One way we can ensure young people have opportunities to find good jobs is through international tax reform keeping companies headquartered here to provide employment for generations to come. The House Ways and Means Committee held a hearing this week to examine the global tax environment and highlight the urgent need for reform. As Chairman Kevin Brady pointed out in his opening statement, In the first two months of this year, weve already heard of three major American companies that have decided they must move overseas. With our jurisdiction over tax policy, the Committee is pushing for solutions to safeguard American jobs and profits. International tax reform is only one component of our goal to overhaul the entire tax code. The Tax Foundation has reported Nebraska small business owners can face a tax rate as high as 47.9 percent when combining federal, state and local taxes. Tackling this problem will require broader reform, which I am optimistic we can accomplish under a new president. Right now, it is important to lay the groundwork and address any flawed policies we can. Our burdensome tax code continues to hurt U.S. businesses and threaten American jobs. It also makes it easier to cheat than to comply. To keep our country competitive in the global economy, we must simplify the tax code for all American families and businesses. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton rallies supporters in Springfield on Monday. The venue was the hall at Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History. U.S. Rep. Richie Neal with Clinton. Clinton talks about her progressive platform. Springfield Mayor Dominic Sarno introduces Clinton. The Democratic candidate took selfies under the watchful eyes of the Secret Service. PreviousNext Hillary Clinton Visits Western Mass on Eve of Primary SPRINGFIELD, Mass. Hillary Clinton wowed a small crowd of supporters in Springfield on Monday morning before heading off to a larger rally in Boston just a day before the state's primary. "I will work as hard as I can every single day. ... I will get up and to go to work for you and fight for you," the Democratic presidential candidate said, asking for their votes on Tuesday. "I want us to make progress again. I am a progressive who likes to make progress." The former secretary of state took aim at the candidates on the right, saying the Republicans left are "still peddling the same snake oil" that trickle-down economics will work. "They are going to try to convince Americans to again go back to that policy," she said. Clinton has positioned herself as an experienced politician who could work across the aisle, but still stand her ground. She espouses a platform based on inclusion and breaking down barriers, rather than building walls. "The mean-spiritedness, the hateful rhetoric that's not who we are," she said. "We have differences that's part of the American DNA. ... "What we can't let happen is the scapegoating, the blaming, the fingerpointing that is going on on the Republican side. "It really undermines our fabric as a nation. So I want to set us on a difference course. ... I want to break down the barriers that stand in the way of people being successful. ... That stand in the way of Americans being successful." This is the former secretary of state's first stop in Western Massachusetts during this presidential primary cycle; her opponent for the Democratic nomination, Vermont's U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, has three times drawn large crowds in the Springfield area and planned to be in Milton on Monday. Clinton was headed for a rally at the Old South Meeting House in Boston after the Springfield event, but lingered after her half-hour speech to take selfies with the crowd. Supporters were lined up outside the Lyman and Merrie Wood Museum of Springfield History more than two hours before Clinton was to arrive. They packed into the small SIS Hall at the museum, below two vintage speed planes, to wait her arrival, occasionally breaking into chants of "413 ... Hillary." Clinton is going into Super Tuesday on March 1 after a decisive win in South Carolina, where she picked 74 percent of the vote. Massachusetts joins Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont and Virginia in primary balloting, with several other states holding caucuses. Sanders is expected to take his home state of Vermont, but Massachusetts could be a battlefield. Clinton is leading in Massachusetts by at least 5 points, according to recent polls, but Sanders' draw in Western Mass has been substantial. Clinton has strong support from established Democrats. She was introduced by Mayor Dominic Sarno. and U.S Rep. Richie Neal shared the stage with her on Monday. Also attending were state Sen. Benjamin B. Downing, state Reps. Tricia Farley-Bouvier, William "Smitty" Pignatelli, and Eugene Dellea, president of Fairview Hospital and a longtime Kennedy family friend. Pittsfield Mayor Linda Tyer and state Rep. Gailanne Cariddi are also supporters. While containing most of her fire toward the Republicans, she pointed out differences between herself and her "esteemed" opponent Sanders on gun laws and education. While the Vermonter has called for college for all Americans, Clinton said her focus is on ensuring middle-class and low-income young people have the opportunity for a higher education. "I don't want you to pay taxes to send Donald Trump's youngest child to college." She described herself as wanting to be a "small-business president" in promoting family-owned ventures and manufacturing, including the needs of the communities in the region. "You are a city on the way back up and I'm going to be a president and a partner to help you keep going," Clinton vowed to Springfield residents. Clinton said she was ready to take on "whoever the Republicans choose." "They've been after me for 25 years and I'm still standing," she said to cheers. Frogs for Leap Day at Catherine's Chocolates in Great Barrington. Berkshire Tidbits: Leaping Into Spring Maple trees are waking up all around the Berkshire area. At this point, this changeable but pretty warm winter, everybody is already tapping in the sugarbushes. Sap is running intermittently and being boiled into gallons of syrup. Most producers have syrup to sell. Some producers have already made hundreds of gallons. This is past weekend all the sugarhouses that serve sit-down meals opened up to serve their fresh syrup. Most of them like to have visitors come watch the syrup being made in the sugarhouse, too. Here's who's open for you to eat homemade pancakes and waffles and "anything you can put maple syrup on!" as Tom McCrumm of South Face Farm at the Ashfield/Plainfield corner, said last week. Helen Gould said she and her family will be open every day, starting Saturday, Feb. 27, serving pancakes from 8:30 to 2 at their Gould's Sugarhouse, 413 625-6170, on the Mohawk Trail/Route 2 in Shelburne. Gould's is open for pancakes during both the sugaring and the foliage seasons. She said, "The guys are in the woods, of course, tapping." Ioka Valley Farm, 413-738-5915, Route 43 1/2 mile west of Jiminy Peak Resort, 4 miles east of Route 22 in Hancock, has been serving its over-the-top menu in the Calf-A since Valentine's Day weekend and will continue doing so Saturdays and Sundays between 8 and 3:30 through Sunday, April 10. The Leab family serves seven flavors of pancakes including apple-cinnamon, butterscotch chip, M&M and pecan. They make their French toast from their own cinnamon bread and they serve a "dream sandwich" of ham and cheese on their French toast with maple syrup. Strawberries, whipped cream, ice cream, homemade applesauce and strawberry sauce, mini corn muffins, maple ice cream pie ... South Face Farm Sugarhouse is open weekends until April 3. Tom McCrumm and Judy Haupt and their staff will serve pancakes, waffles, corn fritters, French toast and more at South Face Farm Sugarhouse restaurant, 413 628-3268, 755 Watson-Spruce Corners Road in Ashfield, on Saturdays and Sundays for six weekends, from 8:30 to 3, starting Saturday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, April 3. They'll be closed on Easter Sunday, March 27. Tom and Judy use ingredients from local farmers including homemade breads for their French toast and Bart's ice cream from Greenfield just up the road. They make their batters from scratch every day. Real homemade pancakes and waffles and corn fritters. I used to take my mother here at least once a sugaring season in the last decade of the last century. They say this is the last year they are planning to serve. Sad, sad. Check out their enticing menu here. The Massachusetts Maple Producers Association has a larger list of maple producers. This last week of February has a little tail, an extra day, Monday on Feb. 29, before leaping into March. Kathleen Sinico, former owner and mother of the current owner of Catherine's Chocolate Shop, 413-528-2510, 260 Stockbridge Road/Route 7 in Great Barrington, kindly searched for, ordered and managed to get frogs for Leap Day. "Milk chocolate frogs are in the shop right now, darling," she said. "They're funny looking frogs." Also for Leap Day, The Whitney Center for the Arts, 42 Wendell Ave. in Pittsfield, is having a free evening of music and dance, a Leap Day Celebration at the Whit, on Monday, Feb. 29, starting at 6 p.m. Red Apple Butchers has offered chili and cornbread to go. Jazu Stine, owner, butcher and chef of Red Apple Butchers (partnered with Berkshire Organics in a refurbished farm store at the corner of Dalton Division Road and William Street in Dalton) has started using his locally raised, pastured, housemade products for hot cooked food to-go on Fridays and Saturdays. Stine said it will be ready earlier but it is hot to eat from 3 to 7 p.m. for best dinner take-out. Since he began earlier in February, he has made pulled pork sandwiches and smoked local pasture-raised beef short rib chili with housemade cornbread, beer bratwurst sausages with cabbage and onions as well as split pea soup with bacon and smoked pork, sausage and pepper and beef and barley stew. This past weekend it was smoked beef short rib chili with cornbread and the introduction of a new dish he calls "Night in Tunisia" roasted pork loin. What makes these to-go dishes special is that they are fresh-from-the-butcher food. Call ahead, 413-442-0888, to reserve. Rubiner's Cheesemongers & Grocers, 413-528-0488, 264 Main St. in the center of Great Barrington, offers free delivery around our area on orders more than $100. There's a scheduled Friday route and a Saturday route. But, for what Rubiner' calls anytime in-town delivery, there is no fixed schedule and no minimum order. In-town includes Alford, both South and North Egremont, Great Barrington, Housatonic which is, technically, Great Barrington, Lee, Lenox, Richmond, Sheffield, the Stockbridges. And Pittsfield by special arrangement. Owner Matthew Rubiner says he "personally selects the cheeses and every specialty grocery item" in his store. These range from the weekly fish order that comes through Portland, Maine, to Matt's beloved chocolates. Visit the store for some ideas. Then order to your heart's delight. Call to find out what new items have come in. Vong's Thai & Vietnamese Restaurant, the new name on what had been Paul's Greek Restaurant, 157 Seymour St. on the corner of Wahconah Street in Pittsfield, might be opening on Tuesday, March 1. Owner Jae Chung has not confirmed this but his staff at Jae's Asian Bistro in Lenox shared the information. Chi Bui, owner with her father, Billy Nhan, of Tahiti Takeout, the Chinese restaurant next to Wahconah Park and one block west of Vong's, told me Jae had said earlier this year that he would be opening a Thai restaurant in the space sometime in March. "The little imp!" Chi laughed. "He made no mention of it being Vietnamese also." Chi and Billy are, originally, from Vietnam. Wild Oats Co-op is continuing with its Soup of the Week series. Free samples on the hot bar on Wednesdays from noon to 1. Last week's soup was turkey, vegetable and wild rice. This coming Wednesday, March 2, the Soup of the Week will be coconut curry French lentil soup. Here's my adaptation of Wild Oats' first Soup of the Week: Minestrone Soup 1/4 cup olive oil 6 stalks celery, chopped 4 carrots, peeled, chopped 3 yellow onions, chopped 1/4 cup tightly packed minced fresh parsley 2 tablespoon tightly packed fresh thyme leaves. minced or not as you choose 1/4 cup tomato paste 1 cup red wine 1 28 ounce can diced tomatoes 3 ounces Parmesan Reggiano in a single piece 5 cups water 2 cups cooked or canned white beans optional: variety of vegetables of your choice such as summer or winter squash, potatoes or sweet potatoes, your favorite greens, leeks, more herbs In a large, heavy pot, over medium high heat, heat the oil until it shimmers but does not yet smoke. Add the chopped celery, carrots and onions. Saute while stirring for 5 minutes. Add parsley and thyme. When the onions begin to caramelize/become shiny and limp and turn golden, stir in the tomato paste until it is incorporated. Turn down the heat to medium to avoid burning. Cook 5 minutes more. Pour in the red wine. Stir to deglaze the pot/scrape up and incorporate vegetable bits which have sauteed to the pot. Allow the wine to evaporate while stirring. When the wine has almost cooked out, add the diced tomatoes and piece of Parmesan cheese. Stir and simmer for 10 more minutes. Add the water, beans and any other vegetables you choose. Adjust heat to maintain simmer. Cover pot. Simmer 30 minutes. Remove cheese. Grate. Serve soup with bowl of grated cheese on the side to sprinkle. In February, Sloane's Restaurant and Bar, 413-637-1364, a part of Cranwell Resort & Spa in Lenox, began again offering discount coupons for meals in the local papers. The discount of 25 percent off on a meal is good for about a month. Cranwell head of sales and marketing Norma Probst said, "Sloane's chef, Marcos Gomez, has created a new menu as of January 2016." The menu is on the website. I just got a taste of some of the new dishes. I'll tell you what I liked. If you like crab, I recommend the small, solid sweet lump crabmeat cakes. They are not breaded or deep fried and are served with a spicy fresh salsa or as sliders. Both my dining partner and I particularly liked Sloane's spinach salad, which was sparked with fresh pomegranate seeds and spiced, toasted sunflower seeds, had sweet little cubes of real, not canned, beets, was served with two crunchy, breaded deep-fried fingers of goat cheese and dressed with a very good lemon maple vinaigrette. The Creekstone Farms beef in the Berkshire Blue burger was outstanding. Even though it was lean, not chuck but more like sirloin, it was juicy and flavorful. The kitchen even cooked it rare as I requested. The oversize burger is served on Berkshire Mountain Bakery toast and comes with the crumbled blue cheese and onions caramelized in Ioka Valley Farm maple syrup. A nod to the Berkshires. The pulled pork was rich, tender, sweet and a bit vinegary and spicy as it should be. The housemade veggie cake was mild in a pleasant way, made with lots of beans and served with fresh vegetables not your usual veggie burger. I also got a taste of the housemade gnocchi. A little bit seared with melt-in-your-mouth interiors. The friend who shared my meal practically licked the bowl clean of the Chardonnay cream sauce. He also loved the New England clam chowder and dessert of solid fudgy chocolate cake served with housemade cherry-Drambuie ice cream. Sloane's casual dining includes fresh, elegant, local choices. It serves a small selection of soups, salads, sandwiches and burgers, wings, nachos, housemade potato chips and a variety of tacos, some pasta dishes, a bit of chicken, salmon and a pastrami spiced grilled sirloin steak. Enough choices. Just to let you know. Chef Julie Gale, owner of At the Table Cooking School in Hillsdale, N.Y., will continue her hands-on participation Cooking at The Chef's Shop series with her "Back to Basics 3" class Thursday, March 3, from 6 to 8 p.m. She will be teaching a meal of spaghetti and meatballs with homemade bread and Caesar salad. The class of no more than 12 students then gets to share the dinner. The cost is $60 per person for a single class, $150 for a series of three. Payment is required in advance with a 48-hour cancellation policy. The Chef's Shop, 31 Railroad St. in Great Barrington, offers class students a 10-percent discount on purchases made on a class day. For more details or to reserve a place in any classes: 1-800-237-5284, 413-528-0135 or Email@TheChefsShop.com. Four More Shots Please S3 Review: This Old Wine In New Bottle Doesn't Get You Drunk As Easily Anymore We work towards an equitable, gender-just, self-reliant and sustainable fisheries, particularly in the small-scale, artisanal sector We work towards an equitable, gender-just, self-reliant and sustainable fisheries, particularly in the small-scale, artisanal sector We work towards an equitable, gender-just, self-reliant and sustainable fisheries, particularly in the small-scale, artisanal sector We work towards an equitable, gender-just, self-reliant and sustainable fisheries, particularly in the small-scale, artisanal sector The content you are trying to view is exclusive to our subscribers. To unlock this article: Southeast Community College in Beatrice hugely impacts the economy of Beatrice, Gage County and surrounding areas in several ways, campus and area officials say. The college provides teaching and training to its students, area high school students and area employees, which helps strengthen the local workforce, officials say. I think Southeast Community College plays a major role in the economic impact of Gage County and the surrounding counties attached to Gage County, said SCC-Beatrice Campus Director Bob Morgan. We certainly are here to meet employer and student demand. Our job is to help provide an educated workforce for not only Gage County but our 15-county area. That advanced education and training can certainly help provide workers that will have an economic impact for our area. Southeast Community College offers 50 programs of study through its three campuses in Beatrice, Lincoln and Milford and its online courses. The Beatrice campus offers six programs: agriculture business management, business administration, office technology, academic transfer, criminal justice and licensed practical nursing. Glennis McClure, executive director of NGage (Gage Area Growth Enterprise), called the graduates from those programs very critical to economic development of the area. Its wonderful for Beatrice that we have a Southeast Community College campus here, McClure said. We have a very strong presence with Southeast Community College. Its really important for our current businesses to be able to draw from the whole Southeast Community College area as far as what theyre doing with programs and teaching students. As we look to recruit, as we talk to businesses, as we tell about our area, its so important, so wonderful that we have Southeast Community College as a partner in this area. The Continuing Education division of SCC helps boost workforce development of communities throughout its 15-county area by offering contract training to community employees. SCC Dean of Continuing Education, Amy Chesley, said employees of Gage County area businesses have taken advantage of contract training by SCC in topics including welding, precision machining, blue print reading and computer training (such as Excel). The college has also hosted a series of workshops in precision agriculture management, Chesley said. The training is offered at receiving businesses or the college campuses. Marguerite Himmelberg, SCC director of client solutions, said SCC is Nebraskas leading college in Global Corporate College, a membership of community colleges that share resources and information. Some of the colleges are more active than others in providing services for community workforces, Himmelberg said. A community college is a vital part to a strong economy and workforce, Himmelberg said. I think especially today when were looking at a very low unemployment rate in Nebraska, a lot of employers are looking at the workforce demographic changing and sometimes they have gaps in critical skills, Himmelberg said. We can provide a real important resource to these companies that want to develop skills that are missing or that arent able to hire immediately. (SCC) helps them to be sustainable. SCC also serves area high school students through dual-credit courses and Southeast Nebraska Career Academy Program courses. Beatrice High School offers dual-credit classes in topics including English, math and Spanish that apply toward students credit at SCC-Beatrice. At half the cost of in-state tuition, BHS students can also enroll in classes under six different academies agriculture; education; welding; health; business, marketing and management; and law enforcement. SCC projects new learning centers will be in Falls City, Nebraska City, Plattsmouth, Wahoo, York and Hebron by 2017. Honda Cars Philippines, Inc. (HCPI) calls for a voluntary preventive measure campaign for select Jazz (2012-2013), City (2012-2014) and CR-V (2011) sold in the country due to a suspected defect in the drivers airbag inflator. Although the said concern remains unconfirmed, the campaign is HCPIs proactive action to ensure the safety of the owners of the affected vehicles to avoid any unfortunate circumstance should the problem occur. To date, no accidents nor injuries were reported related to this concern in the Philippines. HCPI requests all the owners of the affected vehicles to call and contact any authorized Honda Car dealership for service appointment. Replacement and repair of the affected inflator will take only one (1) hour and no cost will be charged to the customer for both parts and labor. HCPI sincerely apologizes for any inconvenience this may cause the owners of the vehicles. For more information, customers may contact authorized Honda Car dealerships and service centers nationwide or call Honda by phone at (02) 857-7240 or email update@hondaphil.com. Customers may visit HCPIs website www.hondaphil.com for the complete list of frame numbers of affected vehicles. Below is the table of information of the affected vehicles: Back to top Imperial Valley News Center Voting restrictions stir anger, mobilize more Democrats to polls Ann Arbor, Michigan - In recent years, many states have passed laws that make it more difficult for people to register and vote. But while these laws may be disenfranchising some minority votersmany of whom support the Democratic Partythey also may be having the unintended consequence of angering many voters, mobilizing them to go to the polls and cast their ballot, according to a new University of Michigan study. This effect may explain why, to date, there has been no evidence of turnout declines in states with these new laws. Since 2002, about 32 states have enacted identification requirements intended to reduce voter fraud. Opponents argued these laws are partisan and racially biased, that is, the laws have been proposed mostly by Republican-dominated state legislatures and are intended to disenfranchise poorer and more transient voters, especially African-Americans and other minorities who tend to vote for Democrats. U-M researchers Nicholas Valentino and Fabian Neuner created two surveys to analyze the psychological reactions to the laws to determine whether media frames about voter ID laws might trigger powerful emotions that spur turnout enough to counteract the demobilizing effects of the laws themselves. In the first online survey, 750 white Americans were asked how angry it would make them feel if voter identification laws prevented some eligible voters from casting a ballot, and their reaction if someone ineligible to vote attempted to cast a ballot. On a five-point scale, the response options ranged from "not at all angry" to "extremely angry." Respondents also answered questions about their willingness to volunteer to raise awareness about voter ID laws, as well as whether they would vote in the 2014 midterm election. In both cases, response options ranged from "not at all likely" to "extremely likely" on a five-point scale. Both sides of the debatethe law and Republican claims about eliminating voter fraudangered Democrats and increased their commitment to vote, the study shows. Meanwhile, Republicans were only mildly concerned about voter fraud, and that concern did not cause them to turn out at higher rates. "We found that Democrats and Republicans reacted differently to the dominant frames in the public discourse, with Republicans angry only about fraud, but Democrats angry about both frames," said Valentino, professor of political science and communication studies. The second online survey involved 750 people who responded to one of five fictitious news articles on voter ID laws and disenfranchisement during the midterm election. The stories ranged from announcing the election without mentioning voter ID laws or their consequences to claiming voter ID laws would disenfranchise legal African-American voters. Another story claimed the laws were necessary to prevent voter fraud. Democrats became angrier about the disenfranchisement conditions than Republicans and independents, the study indicated. "The disenfranchisement frame, especially when it describes the impact on African-American voters, triggers powerful anger among the Democrats in our sample," said Neuner, a doctoral candidate in the Department of Political Science. This anger that Democrats experienced about voter ID laws was also powerfully linked to participation among Democrats, but not Republicans. Imperial Valley News Center For weather forecasting, precise observations matter more than butterflies Seattle, Washington - In the 1970s, scientist Edward Lorenz famously asked whether the flapping of a butterflys wings in Brazil could lead to a tornado in Texas. During the decades since, the butterfly effect and chaos theory have sparked countless debates and pop culture references. But the question also holds practical importance: What do small, unpredictable events mean for the future of weather prediction? A University of Washington study asks whether unobserved, minuscule disturbances - like those from butterfly wings - actually affect weather forecasts. Luckily for those who rely on the weather report, the answer is no. The butterfly effect is important, as an example of how errors might theoretically spread to larger scales, but actual butterflies dont matter for forecasts, said Dale Durran, a UW professor of atmospheric sciences. He is lead author of Thunderstorms Dont Get Butterflies, published in the February issue of the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society. What matters, he says, is getting the bigger picture right. The uncertainty in a meteorological forecast generated by ignoring the flapping of a butterflys wings or even broader circulations 1 mile wide is less than that produced by very-small-percentage errors in our observations of much larger-scale motions, Durran said. Thunderstorms can grow rapidly from a small cloud to a huge storm, and are notoriously difficult to forecast. The researchers used this as their test case. The evolution of thunderstorms is thought to be particularly sensitive to small-scale disturbances, Durran said. Simulated radar images from two thunderstorms. The top panels included initial errors at the 8-km horizontal scale, but give similar results to the bottom panels, which had more minor errors, only a quarter the size, at the larger 128-km scale.Dale Durran/University of Washington The study used computer simulations of squall lines, the row of thunderstorms that can form ahead of a cold air front. The authors looked at the effect of beginning the simulation with modest errors at different horizontal scales. Minor errors at large scales of about 80 miles (128 kilometers) mattered as much for the forecast as more significant errors at a smaller scale of about 5 miles (8 kilometers). On the one hand, this is good news, since small-scale motions, which are almost impossible to observe routinely, dont matter so much, confirming Durrans earlier paper on the meteorological irrelevance of butterflies. On the other hand, its bad news, because even little mistakes in the large-scale observations can throw off a forecast for a thunderstorm or a snowstorm. Perhaps counterintuitively, you have to know the large scale with a great deal of precision to get the small scale right, Durran said. Theres a lot of energy in the larger scales, so if you make a small fraction of a percent error there, it might not seem like much at the start, but a couple hours into the forecast, it makes a difference. Its not necessary to create a dense network of observing stations to measure the atmosphere at finer and finer scales, Durran said. Instead of sweating the small stuff, he says, scientists need to improve the way they assimilate, or input, existing observations of the atmosphere on horizontal scales between 100 and 300 miles (160 to 480 km) in order to start local-area forecasts with the best possible description of the air circulating. Its going to be difficult, but not impossible, to improve the larger scales, Durran said The other co-author is Jonathan Weyn, a UW doctoral student in atmospheric sciences. The research was funded by the U.S. Office of Naval Research. New heart disease research on women Dallas, Texas - The annual womens issue of Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes, an American Heart Association journal, focuses on research promoting the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease in women the No. 1 killer of women in the United States. With this issue, we strive to create a future in which a special issue on womens cardiovascular health is obsolete, said Harlan Krumholz, M.D., S.M., editor of the journal, director of the Center of Outcomes Research and Evaluation at Yale-New Haven Hospital and a professor in Yales schools of medicine and public health in New Haven, Connecticut. We will know that we have arrived when an abundance of research on the topic of womens health that generates knowledge to improve the care and outcomes of a formerly neglected population is commonplace. Among the findings in original research and commentaries in the issue: Sex Differences in Outcomes Following Percutaneous Coronary Intervention According to Age (Robert Wilensky, M.D., University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine) - Despite having less severe coronary artery disease (CAD) than men the same age, women under age 50, were at greater risk for recurrent vessel blockage and adverse events after having percutaneous coronary intervention (procedure to open narrowed or blocked blood vessels). For five years, researchers followed 10,963 patients (3.6 percent women under age 50). While procedural success rates were similar by sex, the cumulative rate of major adverse events was higher in young women at one- and five year follow-ups. Because of their many years of remaining life expectancy that are threatened by early onset CAD, young women with CAD are a population that warrants special attention, the authors conclude. Sex and Ethnic Difference in Outcomes of ACS and Stable Angina Patients with Obstructive Coronary Artery Disease (Karin Humphries, D.Sc., University of British Columbia) - Among adults with acute coronary syndrome or stable angina and obstructive buildup of plaques in the heart, women, as compared to men, were at significantly higher risk of adverse events (i.e. death and readmission for angina, heart attack, stroke and heart failure), regardless of ethnicity. A key finding of the study was that hospital readmission for angina was the most common adverse event, accounting for 45percent of all observed events. This finding was observed among all sex-ethnic groups, except among the Chinese women whose adverse outcome was driven by higher death rates. The study, conducted in British Columbia, Canada, involved 49,556 patients (25.6 percent women) of which 65.9 percent had acute coronary syndrome. The study suggests a need for more targeted cardiac care and research for women across different ethnicities. Sex and Race/Ethnicity Related Disparities in Care and Outcomes after Hospitalization for Coronary Artery Disease among Older Adults (Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., M.P.H., Brigham and Womens Hospital Heart & Vascular Center, Harvard Medical School) - Women were less likely than men to receive optimal care at hospital discharge when admitted for coronary artery disease, and more likely to die within three years, according to a study of 49,358 patients ages 65 and older across 366 U.S. hospitals. Study data were collected through the American Heart Associations Get With the Guidelines Coronary Artery Disease registry over six years. African-Americans, compared with whites, were also more likely to die from coronary artery disease, though this disparity could not be accounted for by differences in the quality of care. Researchers concluded that about 69 percent of the sex disparity in deaths could potentially be reduced or greatly eliminated by providing optimal and equitable quality of care to women. Do women with anxiety or depression have higher rates of myocardial ischemia during exercise testing than men? (Kim Lavoie, Ph.D. University of Quebec at Montreal) - Women with anxiety and no history of coronary artery disease, had higher rates of reduced blood flow compared to women without anxiety. A Canadian study assessed the connection between mood, anxiety and myocardial ischemia (reduced blood flow to the heart) in women and men with and without coronary artery disease. The research indicates that anxiety symptoms, many of which overlap with those of coronary artery disease, might mask heart disease symptoms among women but not men and contribute to referral and diagnostic delays for women. Return to Work after Acute Myocardial Infarction: A comparison between Young Women and Men (Rachel Dreyer, Ph.D., Center for Outcomes Research and Evaluation, Yale University School of Medicine) - Compared to young men, young women may be slightly less likely to return to work a year after a heart attack. The study included 1,680 heart attack patients ages 18 to 55 (57 percent women) who were working full time before having a heart attack. Statistically, however the differences between men and women were not significant after adjusting for several health factors. In this study, women were less likely to be married and were more likely to have professional or clerical jobs than men which are associated with lower likelihood of returning to work. Participants were part of the VIRGO study (Variation in Recovery: Role of Gender on Outcomes of Young Acute Myocardial Infarction Patients). Association between a Healthy Heart Score and the Development of Clinical Cardiovascular Risk Factors Among Women: a Potential Role of Primordial Prevention (Mercedes Sotos-Prieto, Ph.D. Harvard Chan School of Public Health) - An analysis of 69,505 middle-aged U.S. women in the Nurses Health Study II showed a strong association between a lifestyle-based risk prediction model and the development of cardiovascular disease risk factors, including diabetes, hypertension and high cholesterol. The Healthy Heart Score estimates the 20-year risk of cardiovascular disease based on nine lifestyle factors. A higher score reflects a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Women with higher predicted risk of heart disease based on the Healthy Heart Score had significantly greater risk of each risk factor individually. The study calls for additional research to evaluate the use of the tool as a strategy for preventing the development of heart risk factors. Parity and Components of the Metabolic Syndrome Among U.S. Hispanic/Latina Women: Results from the HCHS/SOL Study (Catherine Vladutiu, Ph.D., University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill) - Women who gave birth four times or more had the highest odds of developing metabolic syndrome risk factors such as abdominal obesity, elevated fasting glucose and low good cholesterol all of which raise the risk of heart disease. The analysis was performed among 7,467 women ages 18 to 74 in the Hispanic Community Health Study/Study of Latinos. The study stresses the importance of considering the number of births as a risk factor for developing metabolic and cardiovascular disorders among Hispanic/Latina women. Sex Differences in the incidence of Peripheral Artery Disease in the Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (Grace Wang, M.D., University of Pennsylvania) - Women had a 53 percent higher risk of developing peripheral artery disease (PAD) before age 70 compared to men, in a study examining how PAD in chronic kidney disease differs based on gender and age. The prospective study involved 3,174 participants with chronic kidney disease from the multi-center Chronic Renal Insufficiency Cohort (CRIC). Researchers recommend future studies to better understand the impact of earlier detection of the disease in women and the biological and clinical basis for the sex-based differences covered in this study. And commentary from American Heart Association CEO Nancy Brown provides an overview of the continued growth and contributions of the groups Go Red for Women. Since its inception in 2004, the movement has focused on awareness, education and advocacy in reducing the risk of heart disease in women. The latest addition, expected to launch in April this year, will establish a Womens Health Research Network based at five research centers to support basic, clinical and population-based studies in advancing the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of heart disease in women. The ultimate goal of Go Red for Women is to save lives, Brown said. Since 2004, there has been an average annual decrease of about 2 percent in womens deaths from cardiovascular diseases and stroke, representing a total of about 670,000 lives. Despite this progress, we have much more to accomplish, according to Browns article. Heart disease continues to be the No. 1 killer of women, and stroke remains their fourth leading killer. Meanwhile, the prevalence of these illnesses is growing. More than one-third of women have some form of cardiovascular disease, and more than 90 percent have at least one risk factor for these illnesses. Thats far too many women, and it means that organizations like ours have an obligation to do even more. Immune cells don't always ward off carbon nano invaders Ann Arbor, Michigan - Scientists at the University of Michigan have found evidence that some carbon nanomaterials can enter into immune cell membranes, seemingly going undetected by the cell's built-in mechanisms for engulfing and disposing of foreign material, and then escape through some unidentified pathway. The researchers from the School of Public Health and College of Engineering say their findings of a more passive entry of the materials into cells is the first research to show that the normal process of endocytosis-phagocytosis isn't always activated when cells are confronted with tiny Carbon 60 (C60) molecules. Their research is reported in the current issue of Nanoscale. Nanomaterials are small accumulations of atoms, usually measuring from 1-100 nanometers. As reference, a human hair is about 75,000 nanometers wide. This study examined nanomaterials known as carbon fullerenes, in this case C60, which has a distinct spherical shape. Over the last decade, scientists have found these carbon-based materials useful in a number of commercial products, including drugs, medical devices, cosmetics, lubricants, antimicrobial agents and more. Fullerenes also are produced in nature through events like volcanic eruptions and wildfires. The concern is that however exposed, commercially or naturally, little is known about how inhaling these materials impacts health. "It's entirely possible that even tiny amounts of some nanomaterials could cause altered cellular signaling," said Martin Philbert, dean and professor of toxicology at the U-M School of Public Health. Philbert said much of the previously published research bombarded cells with large amounts of particle clusters, unlike a normal environmental exposure. The U-M researchers examined various mechanisms of cell entry through a combination of classical biological, biophysical and newer computational techniques, using models developed by a team led by Angela Violi to determine how C60 molecules find their way into living immune cells of mice. They found that the C60 particles in low concentrations were entering the membrane individually, without perturbing the structure of the cell enough to trigger its normal response. "Computational modeling of C60 interacting with lipid bilayers, representative of the cellular membrane, show that particles readily diffuse into biological membranes and find a thermodynamically stable equilibrium in an eccentric position within the bilayer," said Violi, U-M professor of mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, biomedical engineering, and macromolecular science and engineering. "The surprising contribution of passive modes of cellular entry provides new avenues for toxicological research, as we still don't know exactly what are the mechanisms that cause this crossing." Why the poor pay more at the store Ann Arbor, Michigan - Turns out you have to make good money to save money. That's according to new University of Michigan research that found that people with low incomes are less able to buy in bulk and move purchases forward to take advantage of sales. Using Nielsen data on toilet paper purchases, Yesim Orhun and Mike Palazzolo of U-M's Ross School of Business showed that while low-income households tend to buy cheaper brands to save money, a large proportion of that savings is lost because these households buy smaller package sizes (at a higher unit price) and don't utilize sales as often. Worse, the relative inability to buy in bulk and on sale has a compounding effect, exacerbating the "poverty penalty," they say. "Because they have to buy small quantities, they have little inventory at home and can't wait until a sale presents itself to purchase again, making it even harder to take advantage of sales," said Orhun, an assistant professor of marketing. "It's a double whammy." The researchers say that low-income households pay 5.5 percent more per roll of toilet paper than they would if they purchased more like high-income householdsthat is, if they bought in bulk and on sale more often. By contrast, low-income households save 11 percent on their toilet paper purchases by purchasing "cheap" brands. Consequently, roughly half the savings low-income households reap by purchasing lower-tier brands is sacrificed because they struggle to buy in bulk and on sale. The analysis also shows that it's not simply a lack of knowledge or awareness of sales and bulk discounts that drives the problem. There is also a cash flow issue. When low-income consumers have more liquidityafter getting their paychecks, for examplethey do take advantage of bulk discounts and sales. "It's not about poor people making poor decisionsit's about them facing liquidity constraints, and it matters even for what we'd consider small purchases," Orhun said. "Clearly, the government can play a role in easing liquidity constraint by making credit more accessible. However, government action isn't the sole potential source of liquidity relief." Can retailers or manufacturers do anything about it? Possibly. Retailers could extend low-interest lines of credit to consumers for everyday items like toilet paper. Manufacturers could offer promotions to encourage people to buy larger packages, Orhun said. This could also help lock in customers and help manufacturers avoid losing sales to brand-switching. Low-Carbon Policies Could Save US Lives Durham, North Carolina - Reducing U.S. climate emissions enough to avoid a 2-degree Celsius increase in global warming could prevent up to 175,000 pollution-related premature deaths nationwide by 2030 and generate health benefits of about $250 billion annually, according to a new analysis by researchers at Duke University and the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies. Many people view climate change as a future problem, but our analysis shows that reducing emissions that cause warming -- many of which also contribute to air pollution -- would benefit public health here and now, said Drew T. Shindell, professor of climate sciences at Dukes Nicholas School of the Environment. When longer-term global health impacts are taken into account, the benefits of reducing U.S. emissions could be 5 to 10 times larger than the estimated cost of implementing necessary policies or technologies, Shindell noted. The researchers published their peer-reviewed analysis Feb. 22 in the journal Nature Climate Change. Most recent climate negotiations have focused on reducing current levels of emissions enough to avoid triggering a 2-degree Celsius (or 3.6-degree Fahrenheit) rise in atmospheric warming -- a threshold at which the increased risk of prolonged droughts and heat waves, accelerated sea-level rise and other damaging climate impacts could outpace our ability to adapt. Much of these negotiations have centered on reducing emissions of longer-lived greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide. But the study demonstrates that simultaneously reducing other air pollutants also has benefits. Burning fossil fuels in power plants, industry and motor vehicles is the main source of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, Shindell said. Air pollution linked mostly to these same sources is also the leading environmental cause of premature death worldwide. By curbing their emissions, you score on two fronts. To conduct the new analysis, the researchers constructed emissions-reduction scenarios for transportation and the energy sector, the two largest producers of U.S. climate pollutants. Then they modeled what the human health benefits and climate impacts would be if emissions in each sector were reduced enough by 2030 to put the United States on a path to stay under the 2-degree C threshold. We created a clean transportation scenario in which surface transport emissions are reduced by 75 percent, and a clean energy scenario in which emissions are reduced by 63 percent, Shindell explained. These scenarios exceed current U.S. emissions reductions targets but are technically feasible and in accordance with the reductions we pledged to achieve at the COP21 climate conference in Paris last December and in our climate accord with China last year. The models showed that by 2030, cleaner energy policies could prevent as many as 175,000 premature deaths, and another 22,000 or so deaths each year following that. Cleaner transportation policies could prevent around 120,000 premature deaths by 2030, and another 14,000 or so deaths each year thereafter. The nationwide health benefits associated with preventing these deaths would total around $250 billion a year in the near term. That means they would likely exceed what it costs to implement the new policies and would offset damage recovery fees or avoidance credits for businesses that are negatively affected. When the global health and climate impacts of the reduced emissions are both factored in, the value of the accrued long-term benefits could roughly quintuple, becoming 5 to 10 times larger than the costs, the study says. This is doable, Shindell said. But its not going to be easy. Barriers remain, and short-term setbacks are likely. Pledging to reduce our emissions is one thing; implementing the national policies and binding international agreements needed to overcome these obstacles will be challenging. Yuhna Lee, a former research scientist at Dukes Nicholas School, and Greg Faluvegi of the NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies co-authored the new study. Funding came from the NASA Applied Science Program and the U.S. Department of Transportation Research and Innovation Technology Administration. CITATION: Climate and Health Impacts of U.S. Emissions Reductions Consistent with 2o C, Drew T. Shindell, Yuhna Lee, Greg Faluvegi. Nature Climate Change, Feb. 22, 2016. DOI: 10.1038/nclimate2935 Watch: This Video Of Woman Failing At Archery, Hitting Arrow On Head Is Hilarious Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Its a method-style performance of such intensity and subtlety that it seemed to herald the beginning of a major new screen career. In 1991, in The Grass Arena, Mark Rylance played John Healy, the working-class London boxer turned alcoholic. Healy becomes a petty criminal but learns how to play chess in prison and excels at it. It was a role which Rylance immersed himself in but in terms of a movie career, it wasnt the launch of anything. A quarter of a century later, Rylance has won an Oscar. Hollywood is reacting to him almost as if he is a newcomer. This, though, is more a case of him ignoring the movies rather than the other way round. He might easily have had a big screen career to match that of Daniel Day-Lewis, but he dedicated himself to stage work instead. Mark Rylance wins Oscar At least Steven Spielberg, who directed him both as the stoical, meticulous Russian agent in Bridge Of Spies and as the Big Friendly Giant in the forthcoming Roald Dahl adaptation BFG, has long appreciated Rylances qualities. He has called him one of the most extraordinary actors working anywhere. Spielberg first offered Rylance a part in Empire Of The Sun back in 1987. He turned it down for a theatre job and has barely appeared on the big screen since. However, in the intervening years, he has won Baftas and Olivier and Tony awards for his work on stage and on television, most recently for playing Thomas Cromwell in Wolf Hall. Oscars 2016 winners Show all 24 1 /24 Oscars 2016 winners Oscars 2016 winners Leonardo DiCaprio Oscar for Best Actor: "The Revenant" Oscars 2016 winners Brie Larson Oscar for Best Actress: "Room" 2016 Getty Images Oscars 2016 winners Mark Rylance Oscar for Best Supporting Actor: "Bridge of Spies" Oscars 2016 winners Alicia Vikander Oscar for Best Supporting Actress: "The Danish Girl" Oscars 2016 winners Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu Oscar for Best Director: "The Revenant" Oscars 2016 winners Emmanuel Lubezki Oscar for Best Cinematography: "The Renevant" Oscars 2016 winners Mark Mangini (L) and David White Oscar for Best Sound Editing: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Oscars 2016 winners Margaret Sixel Oscar for Best Editing: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Oscars 2016 winners Lesley Vanderwalt (R), Elka Wardega (C) and Damian Martin Oscar for Best Makeup and Hairstyling: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Oscars 2016 winners Colin Gibson and Lisa Thompson Oscar for Best Production Design: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Oscars 2016 winners Jenny Beavan Oscar for Best Costume Design: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Oscars 2016 winners Tom McCarthy (L) and Josh Singer Oscar for Best Original Screenplay: "Spotlight" Oscars 2016 winners Adam McKay (L) and Charles Randolph Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay: "The Big Short" Oscars 2016 winners (L-R) Steve Golin, Blye Pagon Faust, Nicole Rocklin, and Michael Sugar Oscar for Best Picture: "Spotlight" Oscars 2016 winners Jimmy Napes (L) and Sam Smith Oscar for Best Original Song: 'Writing's On The Wall' - "Spectre" REUTERS Oscars 2016 winners Ennio Morricone Oscar for Best Original Score: "The Hateful Eight" Oscars 2016 winners Laszlo Nemes Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film: "Son of Saul" Oscars 2016 winners Shawn Christopher Ogilvy (L) and Benjamin Cleary Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film: "Stutterer" Oscars 2016 winners James Gay-Rees (L) and Asif Kapadia Oscar for Best Documentary Feature: "Amy" Oscars 2016 winners Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy Oscar for Best Documentary Short Subject: "A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness" Oscars 2016 winners Pete Docter (R) and Jonas Rivera Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film: "Inside Out" Oscars 2016 winners Director Gabriel Osorio Vargas (L) and producer Pato Escala Pierart Oscar for Best Animated Short Film: "Bear Story" Oscars 2016 winners Andrew Whitehurst (R), Paul Norris (2nd L), Mark Ardington (L) and Sara Bennett Oscar for Best Visual Effects: "Ex Machina" Oscars 2016 winners Chris Jenkins (R), Gregg Rudolf (C) and Ben Oslo Oscar for Sound Mixing: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Rylance has also long since earned his place in British theatre history as the first artistic director of the reconstructed Globe Theatre. There have been a few films along the way too. He gave an excoriating performance in Patrice Chereaus very graphic Intimacy (2001) as the barman who meets a married woman (Kerry Fox) once a week on Wednesday afternoons for sex. He knows nothing about her but begins to yearn for more than just the physical release of their lovemaking. It is instructive to watch one of Rylances least satisfactory films. Cast opposite Sean Penn last year in Pierre Morels half-cocked The Gunman, he plays a sleek but treacherous ex-mercenary who betrays those closest to him. He brings a self-mocking quality to a strangely earnest thriller. It suggests he could make a memorable Bond villain. What distinguishes Rylance, though, is that he is as particular in his choices as he is in his style of acting. In his pronouncements about acting, he is determinedly collegiate far keener to be part of the ensemble than to steal the limelight at awards shows like the Oscars. The cars, the money and the high life, thats all fine, he said in a recent BBC interview when asked about the film star lifestyle and awards. The reduction of anything to a competition is not so much fun. Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} With production of Guardians of the Galaxy 2 in full swing, another cast member has been added to the already packed film. Joining the likes of returning stars Chris Pratt, Zoe Saldana, Dave Bautista, Bradley Cooper and Vin Diesel, as well as new additions Pom Klementieff, Elizabeth Debicki, Chris Sullivan and Kurt Douglas, will be Sons of Anarchy actor Tommy Flanagan. According to Variety, the Scot has joined the cast of Marvels space opera in an unspecified role, while Heroic Hollywood has said he will play a Ravager going after Rocket Racoon, in hope to claim the bounty on the rodents head. As well as Sons of Anarchy, Flanagan has had notable roles in Gladiator, Sin City and Braveheart. Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Show all 8 1 /8 Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Hugh Jackmanas Wolverine in 'X-Men: Days of Future Past' (2014) Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film JK Simmons as JJ Jameson in Spiderman (2004) IMBD/Fox Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Chris Evans as Captain America (2014) Rex Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Patrick Stewart as Professor X in X-Men (2000) IMBD Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Scarlet Johannson as the Black Widow in the Avengers Assemble (2012) IMBD Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Tom Hiddlestone as Loki in The Avengers (2012) Rex Features Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Alan Cumming as Nightcrawler in X-Men (2003) IMBD/Fox Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Best portrayals of Marvel characters on film Jennifer Lawrence as shape-shifting mutant Mystique in X-Men (2014) X-Men: Days of Future Past Director James Gunn has been teasing out information about the film over the last few weeks, first posting a photo of the original team, featuring a much smaller Groot. He also confirmed that neither Benicio Del Toros Collector nor Josh Brolins Thanos will feature in the film, coming as a surprise to many fans who expected both to feature in the MCU Phase Three film. Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2 is expected 5 May 2017. Get our free weekly email for all the latest cinematic news from our film critic Clarisse Loughrey Get our The Life Cinematic email for free Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the The Life Cinematic email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} It finally happened. Leonardo DiCaprio has won his precious Oscar. The Best Actor award comes now thanks to his fifth nomination, for Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's visceral and daring survival drama, The Revenant; beating out Eddie Redmayne for The Danish Girl, Michael Fassbender for Steve Jobs, Bryan Cranston for Trumbo, and Matt Damon for The Martian. Though fans and critics may not have deemed his frothing, desperate crawl for survival his all-time best work, to say so is only a testament to the incredible body of work he's so far accumulated. The actor received his first nomination back in 1993 for Best Supporting Actor for What's Eating Gilbert Grape; followed by Best Actor nominations for The Aviator (2005), Blood Diamond (2007), and The Wolf of Wall Street (2014). And now, a ragged sigh of relief breathes out over the Hollywood elite tonight. The list of deserved thespians who have gone unrewarded seems endless, yet DiCaprio was somehow crowned as the figurehead of that tragic crew. DiCaprio is congratulated by Kate Winslet (Pic: Getty) DiCaprio finally won Best Actor Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Show all 14 1 /14 Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Bill Murray With only one Oscar nomination to his name (2003's Lost in Translation), Bill Murray is one oversight that - in many people's eyes - could easily throw the Academy Awards into disrepute. AFP/Getty Images Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Samuel L. Jackson Considering he's one of the most bankable film stars in the world, it's a surprise that - with over 160 credits to his name - Samuel L. Jackson has only received a mere one nomination (Pulp Fiction in 1994). 2016 Getty Images Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Joaquin Phoenix With three previous nominations under his belt - for films including Gladiator and The Master - it was his performance as Johnny Cash in 2005 biopic Walk the Line that was expected to see him win an Oscar (he lost to the late Philip Seymour Hoffman's for Capote). 2015 Getty Images Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Brad Pitt The ever-present fixture he remains in Hollywood today, you'd think Brad Pitt would have won an Oscar by now; while serving as producer of 2014 Best Picture winner 12 Years a Slave, he currently has zero acting wins to his name despite three nominations (Twelve Monkeys, The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and Moneyball). 2015 Getty Images Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Tom Cruise Still one of the biggest movie stars on the planet, Tom Cruise seemed like a sure awards bet back in the Nineties with films Born on the Fourth of July, Jerry Maguire and Magnolia all earning him nominations - and yet, he never once emerged victorious. 2015 Getty Images Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Richard Gere Would you believe us if we told you Richard Gere has never even been nominated? Well, it's true - and, quite honestly, shocks us quite a bit. Poor guy. Juan Naharro Gimenez Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Gary Oldman One of the film industry's finest character actors, Gary Oldman has been nominated just the once for playing George Smiley in Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy. 2014 Getty Images Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Johnny Depp Despite his recent dip in quality, Johnny Depp has delivered several Oscar-worthy performances in the past. With a total of three nominations to his name - all for post-2000 releases including Pirates of the Caribbean and Finding Neverland - it's more a wonder he didn't receive more recognition for standout films such as Ed Wood and Donnie Brasco in the Nineties. 2015 Getty Images Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Harrison Ford Harrison Ford may now be the world's highest-grossing actor (sorry, Samuel) but still doesn't have the Academy Award to back up such a feat. In fact, he's now into his third decade of not receiving recognition from the Academy with his sole nomination arriving back in 1985 for Witness. Getty Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Edward Norton Edward Norton is just the kind of actor you'd assume would've scooped a statuette at some stage or another, but no - Norton just has three nominations to speak of; his first in 1996 (Primal Fear), his second in 1999 (American History X) and his third just last year (Best Picture winner, Birdman). AFP/Getty Images Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't John Malkovich American actor John Malkovich was nominated once in 1984 (Places in the Heart) and again in 1993 (In the Line of Fire) but hasn't posed much of a threat since. 2013 Getty Images Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Annette Bening Poor Annette Bening, who has come close to victory four times (The Grifters, American Beauty, Being Julia and The Kids Are All Right) but is yet to clinch one. 2015 Getty Images Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Glenn Close ...well, it could be worse; she could be Glenn Close who has been on the shortlist six times for films including Fatal Attraction, Dangerous Liaisons and, most recently, Albert Nobbs. Actors you think have won Oscars but haven't Helena Bonham Carter Helena Bonham Carter may have received a Best Actress nomination for Wings of a Dove (1997), but it was her Best Supporting Actress nomination for 2012's Best Picture winner The King's Speech that seemed a sure bet; Melissa Leo's role in The Fighter won that round. 2015 Getty Images "Thank you all so very much. Thank you to the Academy. Thank you to all of you in this room. I have to congratulate the other nominees," he began, before thanking his "brother" and co-star, Tom Hardy. "Climate change is real. It is happening right now. It is the most urgent threat affecting our entire species." he ended his speech with. "We need to support leaders around the world who speak for all of humanity." "I thank you all for this amazing award tonight. Let us not take this planet for granted. I do not take this award for granted." Finally, it's time to put away those 'Poor Leo' memes; time to retire those addictive flash games. In some ways, it's the end of an era; the loss of one of the Academy Awards' greatest punchlines. In other ways, it's the dawn of an era anew: the Age of Leo. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the IndyArts email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Helen Monks knows when she's had a hard day's work playing Germaine, the fictionalised version of a 15-year-old Caitlin Moran in sisters Caitlin and Caroline Moran's semi-autobiographical Channel 4 sitcom Raised by Wolves. It's when the silicon fat suit Monks wears is drenched in sweat. It smells like I will when I'm dead, she says in her Birmingham accent, adding that she has learned how to wriggle out of the padding in a hurry, but not as rapidly as the co-stars playing her screen sisters vacate the trailer they sometimes share with her. It stinks, she adds. In the second series of Raised by Wolves the characters are rather less obvious mouthpieces for the sisters' admittedly very funny aphorisms. They are more like people in their own right, none more so than Germaine, and in this series that means first (requited) love, and after her fruitless lusting after the oblivious Lee, seducing Lee's friend Callum with an erotic floor show in the local library while fanning herself with a book about chlamydia. Oh God my parents have got to watch that, says Monks. Actually they're very supportive. I remember my mum having a conversation with me before series one, saying you should never censor yourself. And as a teenage girl I would have loved to watch Raised by Wolves. There are all those British things we don't talk about... it's for the greater good that we're educating people on things like mooncups, female masturbation and pubic hair and all the things Caitlin writes very graphically about. You're thinking, 'Finally'. Helen Monks with her 'Raised by Wolves' co-stars Rebekah Staton and Alexa Davies (left) (Channel 4) Monks's parents her mother is a theatre director and her father a children's author tried to warn their children off a career in the arts because of the often abysmal pay. Me and my brother have both defied them because he's a theatre lighting designer, says Monks, who, now 23, has been acting professionally since the age of 13 when, as a member of the Television Workshop in Birmingham, she was cast as one-time eco-warrior Pip Archer in the The Archers, continuing the Radio 4 drama through university (Pip is now played by Daisy Badger). I always had this funny thing with Pip, says Monks. I was always really competitive with her because I was the same age; she was doing her GCSEs when I was doing my GCSEs and I was thinking, 'I've got to beat Pip'. And she was always banging on about the environment and I was going, 'Pip, just do something then'. The story of how Monks, then studying theatre and drama at Sheffield University, approached Caitlin Moran at a book signing in Birmingham and suggested herself for the part of Germaine has been oft-told, Moran agreeing after a quick Google search of Monks. But the story of how Monks wore a fat suit to the audition has apparently grown with the telling. I didn't wear it, she says. I took it in a bag and said I could provide my own. I was just too thin and it was based on Caitlin and she was 16 stone. Originally Raised by Wolves was called The Big Object... part of the point was she was big. Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Sign up It's padding and extra curves and gives me as an actor a lot of confidence, I was so worried with season two about being Germaine again because I'm nowhere near her level of confidence and outrageousness. But as soon as you've got the boobs on and the coat on and the dressing gown on and the Doc Marten boots on, you feel you don't have to do any acting. Caroline, known as Caz, Moran, Caitlin's younger sister by two years, is apparently on the set (in Manchester, although it's set in Wolverhampton) every day. Caz is just as smart and funny as Caitlin in every way, she just doesn't talk about it, says Monks. Germaine is a dick. You can tell that Caz has written all of Germaine's lines because she's like, 'I'm going to let Caitlin know what a dick she was'. Monks says that it's not hard playing a 15-year-old (It's not that long ago that I was 15 and I remember very clearly what it was like), but her next TV role, which she has just finished filming, was a bigger stretch, as William Shakespeare's 13-year-old daughter in Susanna in Ben Elton's new comedy Upstart Crow. The BBC are hoping to repeat the success of Blackadder, which Elton wrote with Richard Curtis, with David Mitchell as the Bard. I remember watching Blackadder as a treat at school and I really hope it's going to be like that, so it makes Shakespeare this really fun thing. Anyway, Susanna, his daughter, is a very grumpy 13-year-old. I think I'll be playing teenagers till I'm 45. She writes poetry as well as performs, two sides of her that come together in a newfound taste for stand-up comedy, becoming a finalist in a contest run by Funny Women with only her first attempt at the form. I feel smug about that. Anyway, It's just me talking, she says. It's quite political, I guess, but quite surreally. The same could be said of a one-woman show she's writing that Funny Women will stage as part of her prize, and which she wants to take to this year's Edinburgh Fringe. It's going to be called Dolly Wants to Die about a doll who's suicidal but can't die because she's inanimate object, says Monks. It sounds bizarre but it's meant to be funny. The inspiration, she says, are her millennial contemporaries. All of my friends who've graduated from university and are just so depressed. These are actually people who come from privileged backgrounds and have enough support and money and love, in theory should be doing all right, but there's so little hope for the future. Everybody feels so trapped and life is endless and that not being a good thing... and I like the idea of a doll because she's also stuck in that situation. Monks is also part of a theatre company that will putting on a play about the Chilcot Inquiry in London and Manchester this summer. And she will also be with the same company in Edinburgh with E15, a verbatim play about the so-called E15 Mums, the group of young mothers who fought their eviction from social housing in east London. It's about the housing crisis in London, says Monks, who finds trying to live in the capital to be verging on the impossible. I live with six people and everyone has really good jobs, but everyone's living like they're poor. If this is how we're living I can't imagine how people on minimum-wage jobs survive. And we all accept that's normal. Monks joined a march on Downing Street recently to protest at what she sees as the neo-Dickensian policies of this government. We all stood outside Downing Street being very peaceful. I don't think David Cameron was even at home, she says. I do sometimes feel we ought to, I don't know, throw a rock at something not at someone just a window. At least then it gets on the news. 'Raised by Wolves' returns to Channel 4 on 2 March at 10pm Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the IndyArts email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Since its release, Making a Murderer has spawned thousands upon thousands of armchair detectives, each one searching for answers in the Teresa Halbach case. After the 10th episode, there were so many questions left unanswered that the filmmakers are looking to return to the series for another set of episodes. From our perspective this story is obviously not over, filmmaker Laura Ricciardi said at the Stranger Than Fiction panel in New York (via Variety). Its real life and (Averys and Brendan Dasseys) cases are both still pending. We have no idea when the magistrate will make a decision in Brendans case. We do know that two potential outcomes are that the judge could order Brendans release or he could order a new trial. Timeline: Steven Avery's convictions Show all 5 1 /5 Timeline: Steven Avery's convictions Timeline: Steven Avery's convictions 1985: Steven Avery is falsely convicted of raping a Penny Beernsten She was jogging along the shore of Lake Michigan when she was threatened with a knife and attacked. Ms Beernsten identified Avery as her rapist from a line-up that did not include the actual attacker. AFP/Getty Images Timeline: Steven Avery's convictions 2003: Conviction overturned Avery's 32-year prison sentence was overturned after DNA testing by the Wisconsin Innocence Project proved his innocence and found a hair from Gregory Allen. He was convicted of the rape and Avery was released. Timeline: Steven Avery's convictions 2004: Avery files federal lawsuit against Manitowoc County police A Wisconsin Department of Justice investigation found police had committed no criminal offences or ethics violations, sparking a lawsuit from Avery seeking $36 million compensation. Timeline: Steven Avery's convictions 2005: Avery is arrested for Teresa Halbach's murder His Avery Auto Salvage business was the freelance photographer's last appointment of 31 October. She was reported missing four days later and police later found her car, bones, teeth and belongings at the site. Avery pleaded not guilty but was sentenced to life in prison in 2007. Timeline: Steven Avery's convictions 201: Netflix releases Making a Murderer The 10-episode documentary came after Avery's conviction was upheld in a 2011 appeal. So we are on the edge of seats about that. To the extent that there are significant developments, we would like to continue documenting this (case). Since the docu-drama hit Netflix, various people involved in the cases of Avery and Dassey have been featured in the media, including prosecutor Ken Kratz who alleged that the filmmakers Riccardi and Moira Demos portrayed him unfairly as a supervillain. He also revealed various pieces of evidence supposedly left out of the series - something the filmmakers put down to having to fit the enormously long case into just 10 episodes (perhaps some of the evidence will make it into a second series?). Making A Murderer- Where are they now? However, also speaking at the convention was Averys civil lawyer, who warned returning to Making a Murderer could be problematic. There is a lot of hostility toward these two women (Ricciardi and Demos) in Wisconsin, Stephen M. Glyn said. The theory is that have played Wisconsin unfairly. But among those people who think and are a little more educated and thoughtful about these sorts of issues, there is appreciation. Avery has a new, Kathleen Zellner, who has been attempting to find new evidence to defend her client. She said recently that new forensic evidence should prove he is not guilty of murder. Heres everything we know about Season two of Making a Murderer. Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter for all the latest entertainment news and reviews Sign up to our free IndyArts newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the IndyArts email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} While it has largely been police and gangs that have tripped up Tommy Shelby's plans in past seasons of Peaky Blinders, it seems the new series will see him face a new corrupt organisation: the Church. We already knew that Paddy Considine had joined the cast as 'the representative of a force beyond anything Tommy has previously encountered', but now we have more concrete character info. "He plays a priest - not a nice person," creator Steven Knight told Crime Scene magazine in a new interview. "Paddy Considine is one of our best actors, so to have him, Tom Hardy and Cillian Murphy is fantastic." The official release date has now been announced Knight previously revealed that the new season would open on Tommy's wedding day, but things are not as rosy as they seem. "This series is an exploration of how Tommy has got what he wants before the first episode," he added. "Hes stepped up, hes got money, and we find out what the consequence of that is - and its certainly not peace and contentment." (Pic: Caryn Mandabach Productions Ltd & Tiger Aspect Productions Ltd 2015) If Peaky Blinders sees people struggling to reconcile the fact that what they believe will bring them the Good Life doesn't always actually result in happiness, it's for good reason. "These stories were told to me when I was a kid, by people who remembered things happening when they were a kid. When youre 10 years old, everything looks more glamorous," he explained to the magazine. "It all came about because my parents both worked for illegal bookmakers when they were kids children were used to take the bets because they wouldnt be arrested. So I heard these stories about my dads uncles, who were known as the Peaky Blinders." Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Show all 15 1 /15 Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Cillian Murphy filming at the horse fair BBC Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art The Eden Club BBC Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Inside The Eden Club BBC Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art The new Garrison pub BBC Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Inside the new Garrison pub BBC Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art London (though scenes were actually filmed in Bolton) BBC Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art London, post bar fight BBC Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Solomon's Headquarters BBC Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Inside Solomon's Headquarters BBC Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Tommy's office BBC Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Peaky Blinders: Behind-the-scenes and concept art Filming on the third season has wrapped now, and we could get the first episode as soon as April. You can read about what to expect from the new season here. The full interview with Knight will be in Crime Scene's March edition, out Wednesday 2nd. Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Independent Climate email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Rapidly disappearing Arctic sea ice is about to set a new record after an absurdly warm winter at the top of the world. For the second year running, it will have grown to cover less of the Arctic Ocean than ever before. The revelation comes as scientists are increasingly worried that the heating of the region could escalate out of control, as growing numbers of feedback mechanisms which reinforce and accelerate the process are being discovered. Most attention on the melting sea ice so far has been focused on the increasingly low minimum levels it reaches each September. Its nine smallest-ever extents have all occurred in the last nine years, with the record being reached in 2012, when it covered only 3.41 million square kilometres - 44 per cent less than the average of the previous three decades, and a full 16 per cent lower than the previous record, in 2007. But the amount by which the ice recovers each winter, peaking at the end of February and the beginning of March, though little publicised, is at least as important. Last year it reached only 14.54 million sq km on 25 February, its peak day the lowest ever. Exactly a year later, at the end of last week, it was just 14.27 million sq km, a fall of 270,000 sq km. Scientists at the National Snow and Ice Data Centre in Boulder, Colorado (NSIDC) the worlds foremost authority on the issue are not quite ready to proclaim a new record, as the ice may yet spread further over the next days. But, with another week of unseasonably warm weather forecast for the region, they privately believe it is almost certain. January has already set a new record for the month, with ice cover averaging just 13.53 million sq km, over a million sq km below its average extent between 1981 and 2010. And Professor Julienne Stroeve of the NSIDC said last week that February would also hit a record low. Any new ice that now forms will be very thin and will melt quickly as temperatures begin to rise in the spring. And, indeed, Arctic ice has been growing thinner even as its extent has shrunk: across the region it is now less than half as thick as it was in 1980. This years record low has been driven by what NSIDC calls an absurdly warm winter: its director, Mark Serreze, has described it as the strangest ever observed in the region. The US governments National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration says the warming is off our chart. In late December, temperatures within 200 miles of the North Pole actually peaked above freezing point. During January they averaged 13F above normal across the Arctic; even the coldest reading, recorded in Svalbard, north of the Arctic Circle, was warmer than the average highest temperature in previous years. Science news in pictures Show all 20 1 /20 Science news in pictures Science news in pictures Pluto has 'beating heart' of frozen nitrogen Pluto has a 'beating heart' of frozen nitrogen that is doing strange things to its surface, Nasa has found. The mysterious core seems to be the cause of features on its surface that have fascinated scientists since they were spotted by Nasa's New Horizons mission. "Before New Horizons, everyone thought Pluto was going to be a netball - completely flat, almost no diversity," said Tanguy Bertrand, an astrophysicist and planetary scientist at NASA's Ames Research Center and the lead author on the new study. "But it's completely different. It has a lot of different landscapes and we are trying to understand what's going on there." Getty Science news in pictures Over 400 species discovered this year by Natural History Museum The ancient invertabrate worm-like species rhenopyrgus viviani (pictured) is one of over 400 species previously unknown to science that were discovered by experts at the Natural History Museum this year PA Science news in pictures Jackdaws can identify 'dangerous' humans Jackdaws can identify dangerous humans from listening to each others warning calls, scientists say. The highly social birds will also remember that person if they come near their nests again, according to researchers from the University of Exeter. In the study, a person unknown to the wild jackdaws approached their nest. At the same time scientists played a recording of a warning call (threatening) or contact calls (non-threatening). The next time jackdaws saw this same person, the birds that had previously heard the warning call were defensive and returned to their nests more than twice as quickly on average. Getty Science news in pictures Turtle embryos influence sex by shaking The sex of the turtle is determined by the temperatures at which they are incubated. Warm temperatures favour females. But by wiggling around the egg, embryos can find the Goldilocks Zone which means they are able to shield themselves against extreme thermal conditions and produce a balanced sex ratio, according to the new study published in Current Biology journal Ye et al/Current Biology Science news in pictures Elephant poaching rates drop in Africa African elephant poaching rates have dropped by 60 per cent in six years, an international study has found. It is thought the decline could be associated with the ivory trade ban introduced in China in 2017. Reuters Science news in pictures Ancient four-legged whale discovered in Peru Scientists have identified a four-legged creature with webbed feet to be an ancestor of the whale. Fossils unearthed in Peru have led scientists to conclude that the enormous creatures that traverse the planets oceans today are descended from small hoofed ancestors that lived in south Asia 50 million years ago A. Gennari Science news in pictures Animal with transient anus discovered A scientist has stumbled upon a creature with a transient anus that appears only when it is needed, before vanishing completely. Dr Sidney Tamm of the Marine Biological Laboratory could not initially find any trace of an anus on the species. However, as the animal gets full, a pore opens up to dispose of waste Steven G Johnson Science news in pictures Giant bee spotted Feared extinct, the Wallace's Giant bee has been spotted for the first time in nearly 40 years. An international team of conservationists spotted the bee, that is four times the size of a typical honeybee, on an expedition to a group of Indonesian Islands Clay Bolt Science news in pictures New mammal species found inside crocodile Fossilised bones digested by crocodiles have revealed the existence of three new mammal species that roamed the Cayman Islands 300 years ago. The bones belonged to two large rodent species and a small shrew-like animal New Mexico Museum of Natural History Science news in pictures Fabric that changes according to temperature created Scientists at the University of Maryland have created a fabric that adapts to heat, expanding to allow more heat to escape the body when warm and compacting to retain more heat when cold Faye Levine, University of Maryland Science news in pictures Baby mice tears could be used in pest control A study from the University of Tokyo has found that the tears of baby mice cause female mice to be less interested in the sexual advances of males Getty Science news in pictures Final warning to limit "climate catastrophe" The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has issued a report which projects the impact of a rise in global temperatures of 1.5 degrees Celsius and warns against a higher increase Getty Science news in pictures Nobel prize for evolution chemists The nobel prize for chemistry has been awarded to three chemists working with evolution. Frances Smith is being awarded the prize for her work on directing the evolution of enzymes, while Gregory Winter and George Smith take the prize for their work on phage display of peptides and antibodies Getty/AFP Science news in pictures Nobel prize for laser physicists The nobel prize for physics has been awarded to three physicists working with lasers. Arthur Ashkin (L) was awarded for his "optical tweezers" which use lasers to grab particles, atoms, viruses and other living cells. Donna Strickland and Gerard Mourou were jointly awarded the prize for developing chirped-pulse amplification of lasers Reuters/AP Science news in pictures Discovery of a new species of dinosaur The Ledumahadi Mafube roamed around 200 million years ago in what is now South Africa. Recently discovered by a team of international scientists, it was the largest land animal of its time, weighing 12 tons and standing at 13 feet. In Sesotho, the South African language of the region in which the dinosaur was discovered, its name means "a giant thunderclap at dawn" Viktor Radermacher / SWNS Science news in pictures Birth of a planet Scientists have witnessed the birth of a planet for the first time ever. This spectacular image from the SPHERE instrument on ESO's Very Large Telescope is the first clear image of a planet caught in the very act of formation around the dwarf star PDS 70. The planet stands clearly out, visible as a bright point to the right of the center of the image, which is blacked out by the coronagraph mask used to block the blinding light of the central star. ESO/A. Muller et al Science news in pictures New human organ discovered that was previously missed by scientists Layers long thought to be dense, connective tissue are actually a series of fluid-filled compartments researchers have termed the interstitium. These compartments are found beneath the skin, as well as lining the gut, lungs, blood vessels and muscles, and join together to form a network supported by a mesh of strong, flexible proteins Getty Science news in pictures Previously unknown society lived in Amazon rainforest before Europeans arrived, say archaeologists Working in the Brazilian state of Mato Grosso, a team led by archaeologists at the University of Exeter unearthed hundreds of villages hidden in the depths of the rainforest. These excavations included evidence of fortifications and mysterious earthworks called geoglyphs Jose Iriarte Science news in pictures One in 10 people have traces of cocaine or heroin on fingerprints, study finds More than one in 10 people were found to have traces of class A drugs on their fingers by scientists developing a new fingerprint-based drug test. Using sensitive analysis of the chemical composition of sweat, researchers were able to tell the difference between those who had been directly exposed to heroin and cocaine, and those who had encountered it indirectly. Getty Science news in pictures Nasa releases stunning images of Jupiter's great red spot The storm bigger than the Earth, has been swhirling for 350 years. The image's colours have been enhanced after it was sent back to Earth. Pictures by: Tom Momary Fairbanks, Alaska, received less snowfall in the whole of December and January than fell on New York in just a single hour last month. Anchorages famous 50 km cross-country ski race was forced to transfer on to a 4km loop of artificial snow. And the Barents and Kara seas north of Norway and Russia have remained almost ice-free all winter. The warmth has partly been driven by natural factors a strong el Nino in the Pacific and, much more importantly, a shift in the Arctic oscillation weather pattern, which weakened the atmospheric barrier between polar and milder latitudes. But scientists are in no doubt that global warming is the fundamental factor, and that similar conditions will reoccur. Such ice as there is in the Barents and Kara seas, for example, is starting to form two months later than in the past, and scientists say that this years freak temperatures near the North Pole will not be unique. Last year was the warmest ever recorded worldwide, by a large margin, and some scientists believe that this one will exceed it. The melting itself causes greater warming, because it replaces a white surface, which reflects heat back into the atmosphere, with dark water, which absorbs it. By one calculation this effect has added a further 25 per cent of warming since 1979 to what has been caused by carbon dioxide emissions. Two new studies published last week by the Woods Hole Research Center in Massachusetts, reported new evidence of such self-reinforcing feedback mechanisms. They showed that, as the regions permafrost thaws, rapid changes in the functioning of microbes in the soil increase emissions of carbon dioxide and methane, an even more potent warming gas. Partly as a result, the tundra which contains twice as much carbon as the atmosphere has turned from being a system that absorbs greenhouse gases, to one that emits them, accelerating climate change even further. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The lives of 2 million UK citizens living, working and travelling in the other 27 Member States would be affected if Britain was to leave the EU, according to an official governments paper. Britons living on the continent may lose a range of specific rights that are only guaranteed because of EU law. These include the rights to live and work but also access to pensions, health care and public service, the Cabinet office warned in his first official report into the impact of a future Brexit. There would be no requirement under EU law for these rights to be maintained if the UK left the EU. Should an agreement be reached to maintain these rights, the expectation must be that this would have to be reciprocated for EU citizens in the UK, the report said. (Statista) It could take Britain up to ten years to negotiate new trade deals with Europe, government officials warned. David Lidington, Europe minister, said that the British exit could also prevent UK citizens from moving abroad. Everything we take for granted about access to the single market trade taking place without customs checks or paperwork at national frontiers, the right of British citizens to go and live in Spain or France those would all be up in the air. It is massive. It is massive what is at risk, he said in an interview with the Observer. Spain has the biggest British expat community in Europe with more than 380,000 people, followed by Republic of Ireland with around 250,000 and France with more than 172,000, according to United Nations statistics. The study says the doubt will negatively impact on financial markets, investment and the value of the pound and lead to a decade of uncertainty. George Peretz QC, an expert on EU law said UK citizens might lose much more than their rights to French state health services. UK citizens would lose their EU law rights to work, to set up a business, to buy property, to bring family to live with them, not to be deported for trivial offences and so on. France might let them do all those things. But that would be entirely up to France, told The Local France. The Prime Minister said the only way to leave the EU, if British people were to vote in favour of Brexit on June 23, would be to trigger Article 50 and begin the process of withdrawal. The process is unprecedented, as no other country has ever used it before. What's the European Parliament ever done for us? Show all 5 1 /5 What's the European Parliament ever done for us? What's the European Parliament ever done for us? A cap on the amount of hours an employer can make you work The Working Time directive provides legal standards to ensure the health and safety of employees in Europe. Among the many rules are a working week of a maximum 48 hours, including overtime, a daily rest period of 11 hours in every 24, a break if a person works for six hours or more, and one day off in every seven. It also includes provisions for paid annual leave of at least four weeks every year Getty Images What's the European Parliament ever done for us? Helping the people of Britain to avoid smoking In 2014 MEPs passed the Tobacco Products Directive strengthening existing rules on the manufacture, production and presentation of tobacco products. This includes things like reduced branding, restrictions on products containing flavoured tobacco, health warnings on cigarette packets and provisions for e-cigarettes to ensure they are safe What's the European Parliament ever done for us? Helping you to make the right choices with your food Thanks to the European Parliament, UK consumers have access to more information than ever about their food and drink. This includes amount of fat, and how much of it is saturated, carbohydrates, sugars, protein and so on. It also includes portion sizes and guideline daily amount information so people can make informed choices about their diet. All facts must be clear and easy to understand What's the European Parliament ever done for us? Two year guarantees and 14-day returns policy for all products Consumers across the EU have access to a number of rights, from things which are potentially very useful, to things which used to be annoying. For example, shoppers in the UK receive a two-year guarantee on all products, and a 14-day period to change their minds and return a purchase, these things are useful www.PeopleImages.com-licence restrictions apply What's the European Parliament ever done for us? Keeping your air nice and fresh (and safe) Believe it or not, although the situation is improving, some areas of the UK have appalling air quality. A report by the Royal College of Physicians released on 23 February says 40,000 deaths are caused by outdoor air pollution in the UK every year. Air pollution is linked to a number of illnesses and conditions, from Asthma to diabetes and dementia. The report estimates the costs to British business and the health service add up to 20 billion every year A vote to leave the EU would be the start, not the end, of a process. It would begin a period of uncertainty, of unknown length, and an unpredictable outcome. The broad procedural route is set out in Article 50 of the Treaty on European Union, ensuring exit is possible. But beyond procedure, nothing is agreed and nothing has been tested, the report said It is important the risk this [Brexit] present is understood, it concluded. However Boris Johnson, who has announced his support for the out campaign, has accused the Prime Minister and other campaigner of scaring voters. It is now obvious that the Remain campaign is intended to provoke only one emotion in the breast of the British public and that is fear, he said in his column in the Daily Telegraph. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Starbucks, the US hot drinks behemoth, has already sold coffee to Brazil. But its latest mission, selling coffee to Italy, might prove more of a challenge. The Seattle-based chain is already established in Europe but has yet to try its luck in Italy, where attachment to the traditional espresso bar is strong and locals have scoffed at the huge beakers of coffee that Starbucks sells by the bucketload elsewhere. Howard Schultz, the companys founder, gave assurances that the first Italian outlet would be the quintessence of Milan, where it is due to open by 2017, and would be in harmony with the rest of the city. Outlets are due to follow in swift succession in Verona and Venice. The expansion is being guided by Italian shopping mall entrepreneur Antonio Percassi, who oversaw the expansion of Zara and Victoria's Secret in Italy. Starbucks is hoping it can draw Milanese coffee drinkers away from their tazzina, a strong black espresso, and their morning cappuccino with the promise of free wifi and space for young professionals to meet in person and talk in confidence. Disrupting centuries of coffee-drinking tradition will be no easy feat for the Seattle-based chain better known for its giant sugary drinks. Howard Schultz, Starbucks CEO, seems to be aware of the delicate nature of their plans. The 12 Best coffee shops Show all 12 1 /12 The 12 Best coffee shops The 12 Best coffee shops Small-Batch.jpg Small Batch Coffee, Brighton My Hotel, Jubilee St, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 1GE They have six sites in Brighton, which offer great service in cool locations, says Chris. The 12 Best coffee shops Caravan.jpg Caravan 1 Granary Square (off Goods Way), London N1C 4AA Jeffrey says this new, inspirational, design-led venue, created on a monumental scale, is one of Londons most powerful destination coffee venues. Live roasting and artisan coffee made in a diverse set of ways by some of the UKs best baristas complement the superb and comprehensive all-day brunch menu. Its evening menu is a treat too. The 12 Best coffee shops Colonna-&-Smalls.jpg Colonna & Smalls, Bath 6 Chapel Row, Bath, Avon, BA1 1HN This speciality coffee house always offers three different types of espresso and three different types of filter coffee and will explain which is best depending on what sort of drink you wish to have: flat white, cappuccino etc. Chris says the coffee is simply stunning. The 12 Best coffee shops Bold-St-Coffee,-Liverpool.jpg Bold St Coffee, Liverpool 89 Bold St, Liverpool, L1 4HF Dale says this is one of the loveliest cafee he knows. Really approachable staff, the highest quality of coffee with the least pretence imaginable and they are repeatedly awarded the best cafe in the city. A solid community of like-minded coffee people within Liverpool. The 12 Best coffee shops Kaffeine.jpg Kaffeine 66 Great Titchfield Street, Fitzrovia, London, W1W 7QJ Local, quality-focused artisan cafe with excellent in-house-made delicious food, has a very loyal following, says Jeffrey. The owner Peter Dore-Smith is a perfectionist and his enthusiastic team are always very welcoming. Its independently owned and only minutes from the mayhem of Oxford Circus. The 12 Best coffee shops The-Plough.jpg The Plough, Birmingham 21 High St, Harborne, Birmingham, B17 9NT The Plough redefines what a pub can be, says Dale. It aims for excellence with everything it does coffee, food, service and hits every time. This place is worth catching a train from London for. The 12 Best coffee shops 6-8-Kafe.jpg 6/8 Kafe, Birmingham 6/8 Temple Row, Birmingham, B2 5HG Central location in the second city, this is a stylish and smart cafe with a loyal following, says Dale, who also flags up the friendly service. The 12 Best coffee shops Bettys.jpg Bettys Harrogate 1 Parliament Street, Harrogate, HG1 2Q Established in 1919, an institution and one of the finest coffee and tea venues in the country, says Jeffrey. A beautiful and traditional venue that is owned and run by fine purveyors of coffee, Taylors of Harrogate. The 12 Best coffee shops The-Window-Cafe.jpg The Window, Norwich 25 Wensum St, Norwich, East Anglia, NR3 1 The owner, Hayley, serves her own blends, which change with her mood and you can buy the beans to take away. The 12 Best coffee shops Brew-Lab.jpg Brew Lab Coffee, Edinburgh 6-8 South College St, Edinburgh, EH8 9AA Dale says this is one of the most exciting cafes hes visited in a long time. The coffee is incredible some of the most skilled baristas in Edinburgh, and the coffee changes weekly. The food is great too. The 12 Best coffee shops Waterloo-Gardens.jpg Waterloo Gardens, Cardiff 5 Waterloo Gardens, Cardiff, Wales, CF23 5AA A short walk from central Cardiff but well worth the effort, says Dale. It was awarded the best UK coffee house 2009 and, strictly speaking, is really a tea paradise, but the coffee is just as well prepared. Super service, knowledgable and interesting staff. The 12 Best coffee shops North-Tea-Power.jpg North Tea Power, Manchester 36 Tib St, Manchester, M4 1LA This is a beautiful cafe in the northern quarter of the city, says Dale. The staff are warm, the espresso is exceptional and youll never want to leave. "Were going to try, with great humility and respect, to share what weve been doing and what weve learned through our first retail presence in Italy. Our first store will be designed with painstaking detail and great respect for the Italian people and coffee culture," Schultz said. When the Italy expansion was first rumoured Christian Barbujani, a Milan-native, told the Independent that coffee purists were unlikely to embrace Starbucks. It will certainly be very good for tourists, especially if they open one near the central station or Milans cathedral. The free Wifi strategy makes a lot of sense and Im sure it would be very popular with teenagers. But it doesnt fit in the Italian espresso culture, and coffee purist will not go there, Barbujani said. But customers sipping espresso at the SantEustachio cafe, one of Romes most celebrated coffee shops, werent overjoyed by the news. Alessandro Varalda, 25, from Turin the home of Lavazza coffee said he would be sticking with his favourite Italian-style espresso or cappuccino. He thought, however, that the distinctly un-Milanese Starbucks style of wooden floors, sofas, light jazz and faux Friends-style bonhomie, would appeal to some compatriots. I think Italians who like all things American will go to Starbucks, but its more of a lifestyle thing, he said. A group of Americans at the SantEustachio were even less impressed. Elodie Turpin, 21, from Virginia, who is studying Italian in Rome, said: Its an abomination. The coffee here is so nice. Starbucks serves you great big cups of stuff that tastes burnt. Her friend Lindsay Ferrall, 20, agreed. This is one thing from America that Italy doesnt need, she said. Despite the countrys long cultural and historical links with coffee the espresso machine was invented in Italy it is only the seventh-largest consumer of the beverage in Europe, with many locals limiting themselves to a breakfast shot or an after dinner espresso. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} As the political editor of Sky News, Faisal Islam is now one of the most recognisable figures on British television. But even he suffered the indignity of being stopped and searched repeatedly by Metropolitan Police officers seeking terrorism suspects. Islam, 38, has been singled out on four occasions by police operating random searches under anti-terrorism legislation. The broadcaster believes he was the victim of racial profiling as the Met responded to public anxieties in the wake of the 7 July attacks. However Islam, who succeeded the veteran Adam Boulton at Sky News in 2014, bears no malice towards the police. He accepts they were simply doing their job and has been able to raise his experiences privately with the Met Commissioner. In the years after 7/7 I got stopped and searched four times, Islam told The Independent. Obviously at that moment it annoys you. Then I researched it, as you would as a journalist, and found it just wasnt a sensible use of police time. The use of stop-and-search powers increased dramatically after the 2001 attacks but only around 1 per cent of all searches led to arrests and none for terrorism offences. Powers which allowed any police force randomly to stop and search any person or vehicle on suspicion of terrorism were struck down by the European Court of Human Rights in 2010. Black and Asian people were three times more likely to be searched than whites under the powers. They werent going to catch any bad guys, Islam said. I got stopped outside Kings Cross. I think at that point they were profiling me. It happened more than you would think. I kept all the paperwork. I dont begrudge officers just doing their job. The third or fourth time of course, I was the nightmare person with all the statistics of how many people were caught which I think was zero. The appointment of Islam, a former economics editor at Channel 4 News, struck a blow for diversity at the top echelons of news television. The stop-and-search experience was a helpful one he said, since it gave him a different experience to other political editors. I rationalised it as a form of show for other people, it was a form of marketing look what were doing. If it could be proved to be effective Id be happy wasting my time but it was ineffective and a waste of police time too. Now police search tools have evolved in a more interesting way. Islam is confronted by racism on a daily basis. A keen exponent of social media as a communication tool, with 116,000 Twitter followers, he was shocked by some incredibly nasty messages he received since joining Sky. I fully welcome viewers holding us to account but theres also a lot of anger out there. Its remarkable what people will say under their real names even on Facebook. The Cambridge graduate will put his head above the parapet again this week when he delivers the University of Kents annual Bob Friend Memorial Lecture, named in honour of one of Sky Newss original anchors. Islam will use the speech to reveal a new consumer analysis tool being pioneered by Sky News a nationwide panel which allows the channel to gauge reactions to stories on an hourly basis. My idea when I came to Sky was to mimic what the political parties are doing to track evolving opinions by demographic, he said. Its no longer enough to say Middle England thinks this. Politics has become atomised. It just so happens Sky is owned by a very big consumer company with an amazing data operation. Islam said the rolling sample of 1,000 participants had allowed Sky to identify the most Ukip-friendly pub in the UK, by tracking Kipperish tendencies down to precise postcodes. The data established that Land of Hope and Glory would be the most popular new English national anthem when the issue became a recent news story and gave the Sky News team consistent insight that the Liberal Democrats would be wiped out at the 2015 election, months before the poll. Islam explained: Were getting midday responses to a headline in the morning. We test opinion throughout the day. Were getting a flavour of public opinion and that puts us on the side of the viewer wanting to communicate their message to Parliament rather than just the other way round. We can do things no other organisation can with these tools. After hours filling in for viewers, waiting for David Cameron to emerge with a Brussels deal designed to keep the UK inside the EU, Islam was informed by the instant data response that the Prime Ministers package had left voters disappointed. The referendum is the next battleground where what Islam calls in his lecture a public rage against the political machine will be vocalised. Weve reached the end of a political cycle where the established rules of politics stayed roughly the same from Thatcher through to Camerons election, Islam said. If both sides in the referendum project fear about economics on the one hand and fear about immigration on the other, I dont think that will do much for public discourse. Spin doctors for the Leave and Remain camps are poised to pounce on any suggestion of partiality. Boris Johnson talked about remaining or leaving Europe rather than the EU. If I use that formulation someone from the Leave side is straight on my case saying were not leaving Europe. It feels like Im being man-marked on social media. A proud Mancunian, Islam believes social class, as much as diversity, is a challenge for broadcasters. I dont see many people from the tough part of Manchester where my dad ran a newsagent making it into the media either. It makes sense to have people from a variety of backgrounds telling the story of the nation. That shouldnt be the reason why people get jobs but it just makes for a richer, national conversation. Islam, who admits it took time to establish himself with viewers accustomed to Boultons substantial presence, offers himself as an exemplar. My father was an immigrant who occasionally paid my school fees in bags of one pound coins. I hope my mere presence makes people realise theres a lot more going on in the British Muslim community than they sometimes might feel. Faisal Islam delivers the Bob Friend Memorial Lecture at the University of Kent, Historic Dockyard, Chatham, on 3 March, at 7pm For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Just hours before the Oscars were due to start, Spotlight actor Mark Ruffalo took part in a protest against sexual abuse in the Catholic church in downtown Los Angeles. Joined by Spotlight director Tom McCarthy and co-writer Josh Singer, the three spent their day at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels marching alongside the Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests. Brandishing banners which displayed childhood pictures of the victims of the sexual abuse, the protest called for the names of the priests who have been convicted of abusing minors to be made public. The 47-year-old American actor also told the crowd of protesters: I'm here to stand with the survivors and the victims and the people we've lost from Catholic priest childhood sex abuse. People news in pictures Show all 18 1 /18 People news in pictures People news in pictures 7 October 2015 Russian President Vladimir Putin takes part in an ice hockey match between former NHL stars and officials at the Shayba Arena in the Black Sea resort of Sochi. Vladimir Putin spent his 63rd birthday on the ice, playing hockey with NHL stars against Russian officials and tycoons EPA People news in pictures 6 October 2015 German designer Karl Lagerfeld (R) and model Cara Delevingne (C) appear at the end of his Spring/Summer 2016 women's ready-to-wear collection for fashion house Chanel at the Grand Palais which is transformed into a Chanel airport during the Fashion Week in Paris, France Reuters People news in pictures 5 October 2015 Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne addresses the Conservative party conference in Manchester. The Chancellor argued that reducing the payments to people in low paid jobs would give them economic security by reducing the Governments spending deficit Getty Images People news in pictures 4 October 2015 Cowboys captain Johnathan Thurston takes a moment in the centre of the field with his daughter Frankie Thurston, holding dark-skinned doll, after winning the 2015 NRL Grand Final match between the Brisbane Broncos and the North Queensland Cowboys at ANZ Stadium in Sydney. The image quickly became the talking point of Australias National Rugby League Final and provoked a strong reaction on social media, with many praising Thurston for giving his child a toy that promotes inclusiveness and diversity Getty Images People news in pictures 3 October 2015 Pope Francis gives a thumbs-up as he greets people at the end of an audience to the participants of a meeting organized by the "Food Bank" at the Paul VI audience hall in Vatican Getty Images People news in pictures 2 October 2015 Britain's Finance Minister George Osborne (L) throws an American football as he meets with former American football players Dan Marino (2nd R) and Curtis Martin (not pictured) at 11 Downing Street in London, ahead of the New York Jets playing against the Miami Dolphins at London's Wembley Stadium on 4 October Getty Images People news in pictures 1 October 2015 An honor guard opens the door as Russian President Vladimir Putin enters a hall to attend a meeting with members of the Presidential Council for Civil Society and Human Rights at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia People news in pictures 30 September 2015 Former Mrs America Lisa Christie, who alleges misconduct by Bill Cosby, holds up photos of her younger self during a news conference at the law office of attorney Gloria Allred in Los Angeles People news in pictures 29 September 2015 Matt Damon has defended himself against claims that he instructed gay actors to remain in the closet. He had said I think youre a better actor the less people know about you and sexuality is a huge part of that. Whether youre straight or gay, people shouldnt know anything about your sexuality but an appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres show said, I was just trying to say actors are more effective when theyre a mystery. Right? Getty People news in pictures 29 September 2015 Actor Marion Cotillard has said that there is no place for feminism in Hollywood. Speaking to Porter magazine, she saidFilm-making is not about gender/ You cannot ask a president in a festival like Cannes to have, like, five movies directed by women and five by men. For me it doesnt create equality, it creates separation. I mean, I dont qualify myself as a feminist." Getty People news in pictures 29 September 2015 Actor Paul Walkers daughter, Meadow, is suing Porsche over her fathers death in a lawsuit that claims he was trapped in the burning car because of design flaws and the seat belt. The Fast and Furious star was killed when the Porsche Carrera GT he was a passenger in hit a pole in California in 2013. The driver, his friend Roger Rodas, also died when the vehicle burst into flames. AP People news in pictures 28 September 2015 Robert Mugabe waits to address the United Nations General Assembly. The leader of Zimbabwe reportedly exclaimed 'We are not gay!' as he criticised Western nation's "double standards and attempts to prescribe new rights that are contrary to our values, norms, traditions and beliefs. In 2013 he described homosexuals as worse than pigs, goats and birds. Reuters People news in pictures 28 September 2015 South African comedian Trevor Noah hosts the first 'Daily Show' since taking over from Jon Stewart as host. Stewart had presented the US satirical news show since 1999 and was described by Noah during the show as a 'Political father' 2015 Getty Images People news in pictures 25 September 2015 Sir Elton John may have received a phone call from the real Vladimir Putin. Mr Putin's spokesman announced he had made contact weeks after the singer was duped by pranksters pretending to be the Russian President. Getty People news in pictures 25 September 2015 Actor Leonardo DiCaprio was mistakenly declared as the artist who produced the Mona Lisa by Fox News anchor Shepard Smith. It was in fact Leonardo da Vinci. People news in pictures 24 September 2015 A new biography claims Donald Trump expected to be dead by 40 and never marry. The Guardian says the a new book also claims that in 1980, Mr Trump manufactured a fake vice-president of his real estate conglomerate, whom he called John Baron. People news in pictures 24 September 2015 The Dalai Lama has said that Britain's policy towards China is just about 'Money, money, money.' And asked 'Where is morality?' People news in pictures 24 September 2015 Puff Daddy secured the number-one spot on the Forbes Hip Hop Cash Kings list, with the publication calculating he made an estimated $60million (39m) between June 2014 and June 2015. Spotlight, which won best picture at this years Oscars, is a real-life drama about the team of Boston Globe investigative journalists who exposed the Catholic church scandal of priests involved with child molestation in 2002. Speaking on stage while he collected the Oscar, McCarthy explained the inspiration for the film. We made this film for all the journalists who have and continue to hold the powerful accountable, and for the survivors whose courage and will to overcome is really an inspiration to all. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} After months of anticipation and controversy over the lack of diversity, it will be hard to forget the 2016 Oscars ceremony. From Chris Rocks take on the #OscarsSoWhite to Sam Smith mistakenly dubbing himself the first openly gay man to win an Oscar to Sacha Baron Cohen bringing back Ali G, it was a night of surprises. While party-goers celebrated and commiserated in equal measure, actors, directors and costume designers made a number of memorable comments at the after parties. As everyone expected, diversity was one of the decisive issues of the day and few shied away from confronting it head on. Here is a selection of the most insightful, hilarious and politically charged quotes from the Oscars backstage speeches and after parties: Brie Larson on sexism "There were many times that I would go into auditions and casting directors would say, It's really great. Really love what you're doing, but we'd love for you to come back in a jean miniskirt and high heels ... I tried maybe once. "And it always made me feel terrible because they were asking me to wear a jean miniskirt and heels to be sexy, but a jean miniskirt and heels does not make me feel sexy. It makes me feel uncomfortable. OSCARS 2016: Brie Larson Louis Gossett Jr. on racial diversity We're not going to get to this 'promise land' until we regard one another as part of the whole family. One family, one nation, indivisible. That mentality is essential for our salvation. When we look at each other we are the same family - black, latino. Were one family. That is America. Mark Rylance on being confused with Mark Ruffalo "Mark Ruffalo told me on the Red Carpet that that had happened to him at the BAFTAs, that whoever was giving the award had slowed down after the R and a number of people on his team, as people call it, had looked around to congratulate him, and then the dreadful ylance had come forward and crushed his dreams". Chris Rock on racism in Hollywood Is Hollywood racist? Youre damn right Hollywoods racist. But it isnt the racist youve grown accustomed to. Hollywood is sorority racist. Its like: We like you, Rhonda, but youre not a Kappa. Thats how Hollywood is. Mark Rylance, Brie Larson, Leonardo DiCaprio and Alicia Vikander (Getty) Patricia Arquette on women living in poverty Why are 3.56 million women turned away from domestic abuse shelters a year? Because theyre women. One of the main reasons for homeless families is domestic violence We got 33 million women and kids living in poverty because their mum is not getting paid their full dollar even though she is working full time. Oscars 2016 winners Show all 24 1 /24 Oscars 2016 winners Oscars 2016 winners Leonardo DiCaprio Oscar for Best Actor: "The Revenant" Oscars 2016 winners Brie Larson Oscar for Best Actress: "Room" 2016 Getty Images Oscars 2016 winners Mark Rylance Oscar for Best Supporting Actor: "Bridge of Spies" Oscars 2016 winners Alicia Vikander Oscar for Best Supporting Actress: "The Danish Girl" Oscars 2016 winners Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu Oscar for Best Director: "The Revenant" Oscars 2016 winners Emmanuel Lubezki Oscar for Best Cinematography: "The Renevant" Oscars 2016 winners Mark Mangini (L) and David White Oscar for Best Sound Editing: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Oscars 2016 winners Margaret Sixel Oscar for Best Editing: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Oscars 2016 winners Lesley Vanderwalt (R), Elka Wardega (C) and Damian Martin Oscar for Best Makeup and Hairstyling: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Oscars 2016 winners Colin Gibson and Lisa Thompson Oscar for Best Production Design: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Oscars 2016 winners Jenny Beavan Oscar for Best Costume Design: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Oscars 2016 winners Tom McCarthy (L) and Josh Singer Oscar for Best Original Screenplay: "Spotlight" Oscars 2016 winners Adam McKay (L) and Charles Randolph Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay: "The Big Short" Oscars 2016 winners (L-R) Steve Golin, Blye Pagon Faust, Nicole Rocklin, and Michael Sugar Oscar for Best Picture: "Spotlight" Oscars 2016 winners Jimmy Napes (L) and Sam Smith Oscar for Best Original Song: 'Writing's On The Wall' - "Spectre" REUTERS Oscars 2016 winners Ennio Morricone Oscar for Best Original Score: "The Hateful Eight" Oscars 2016 winners Laszlo Nemes Oscar for Best Foreign Language Film: "Son of Saul" Oscars 2016 winners Shawn Christopher Ogilvy (L) and Benjamin Cleary Oscar for Best Live Action Short Film: "Stutterer" Oscars 2016 winners James Gay-Rees (L) and Asif Kapadia Oscar for Best Documentary Feature: "Amy" Oscars 2016 winners Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy Oscar for Best Documentary Short Subject: "A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness" Oscars 2016 winners Pete Docter (R) and Jonas Rivera Oscar for Best Animated Feature Film: "Inside Out" Oscars 2016 winners Director Gabriel Osorio Vargas (L) and producer Pato Escala Pierart Oscar for Best Animated Short Film: "Bear Story" Oscars 2016 winners Andrew Whitehurst (R), Paul Norris (2nd L), Mark Ardington (L) and Sara Bennett Oscar for Best Visual Effects: "Ex Machina" Oscars 2016 winners Chris Jenkins (R), Gregg Rudolf (C) and Ben Oslo Oscar for Sound Mixing: "Mad Max: Fury Road" Leonardo Di Caprio on climate change If you don't believe in climate change, you don't believe in modern science or empirical truths and you will be on the wrong side of history. Pete Docter on disability We have heard from a lot of folks, teachers, especially parents of special needs kids who have said this film has given them a new vocabulary to talk about emotions for the first time, and that is nothing we were aiming for, but it is such an amazing byproduct of the movie. Alicia Vikander on female solidarity A lot of things can be possible, things that I would never, ever, ever have believed in and that is only because I have had some incredible women supporting me so that is probably what I wanted to say to some young girls, just keep on doing it, I guess. Sam Smith on finding out he wasn't the first openly gay man to win an Oscar "Sh*t. F*ck that. Twos my lucky number so its all good. Jenny Beavan on clothes "I really don't do frocks, and I absolutely don't do heels. I simply can't wear them. I've got a bad back that, and I look ridiculous in a beautiful gown. And this was an homage to Mad Max and I didn't get it quite right at the Baftas obviously. The scarf was supposed to be an oily rag, but I'm actually in Marks & Spencer's with a little Swarovski addition on the back. And unfortunately, I had a shoe malfunction". Costume designer Jenny Beaven (Getty Images) Alejandro G. Inarritu on storytelling And I think that storytelling is a way for us to feel, in a way, can confront a huge amount of emotions and possibilities and feel, you know, beautiful and horrible emotions So storytelling is, I think, oxygen for life that protect us. Alicia Vikander on The Danish Girl and LGBT rights "With Caitlyn Jenner coming out, with Transparent and Tangerine, it's like a social change and I just wish that in the same way that this film has been so educational for me and with so many people that I got to meet and in preparation for it I hope that it can open up an even wider conversation, if our film can be a part of that discussion". Sacha Baron Cohen on Oscar Race Row There has to actually be greater diversity at all levels of hollywood, I think it would be a shame if theres just tokenism and a few more black actors appear in front of the screen. I think at all levels, in all the production companies and in all the studios, there needs to be actually positive discrimination and affirmative action. Brie Larson on perfectionism "I personally have problems with trying to be perfect and being devastated when I realise every day that that's not a possibility". It has been far too many years since the Woke theology interlaced its canons within the fabric of the Indoctrination Realm, so it is nigh time to ask: Does this Representative Republic continue, as a functioning society of a self-governed people, by contending with the unusual, self absorbed dictates of the Woke, and their vast array of Victimhood scenarios? Yes, the Religion of Woke must continue; there are so many groups of underprivileged, underserved, a direct result of unrelenting Inequity; they deserve everything. No; the Woke fools must be toppled from their self-anointed pedestal; a functioning society of a good Constitutional people cannot withstand this level of "existential" favoritism as it exists now. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A most loving and loyal dog belonging to Hollywood actress Salma Hayek has been shot dead on her ranch in Washington state in the US. The star posted a photograph of the pet, called Mozart, on her Instagram site, saying she had been in mourning for a week over his slow and painful death. Deputy Lieutenant Cliff Ziesemer told the Associated Press that a vet had determined the dog was hit by a shot from a pellet gun. The pellet had nicked an artery and that the dog slowly bled to death internally, he added. In her Instagram post, Hayek, who was away at the time, wrote: I haven't posted for a week as I [have] been mourning the death of my dog, Mozart who I personally delivered out of his mother's womb. He was found dead in my ranch last Friday with a shot close to his heart. I am hoping that the Washington State authorities do justice to this wonderful dog whom in nine years never bit or attacked anyone. He loved his territory and never strayed away. He was the most loving and loyal companion. He didn't deserve a slow and painful death. People news in pictures Show all 18 1 /18 People news in pictures People news in pictures 7 October 2015 Russian President Vladimir Putin takes part in an ice hockey match between former NHL stars and officials at the Shayba Arena in the Black Sea resort of Sochi. Vladimir Putin spent his 63rd birthday on the ice, playing hockey with NHL stars against Russian officials and tycoons EPA People news in pictures 6 October 2015 German designer Karl Lagerfeld (R) and model Cara Delevingne (C) appear at the end of his Spring/Summer 2016 women's ready-to-wear collection for fashion house Chanel at the Grand Palais which is transformed into a Chanel airport during the Fashion Week in Paris, France Reuters People news in pictures 5 October 2015 Chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne addresses the Conservative party conference in Manchester. The Chancellor argued that reducing the payments to people in low paid jobs would give them economic security by reducing the Governments spending deficit Getty Images People news in pictures 4 October 2015 Cowboys captain Johnathan Thurston takes a moment in the centre of the field with his daughter Frankie Thurston, holding dark-skinned doll, after winning the 2015 NRL Grand Final match between the Brisbane Broncos and the North Queensland Cowboys at ANZ Stadium in Sydney. The image quickly became the talking point of Australias National Rugby League Final and provoked a strong reaction on social media, with many praising Thurston for giving his child a toy that promotes inclusiveness and diversity Getty Images People news in pictures 3 October 2015 Pope Francis gives a thumbs-up as he greets people at the end of an audience to the participants of a meeting organized by the "Food Bank" at the Paul VI audience hall in Vatican Getty Images People news in pictures 2 October 2015 Britain's Finance Minister George Osborne (L) throws an American football as he meets with former American football players Dan Marino (2nd R) and Curtis Martin (not pictured) at 11 Downing Street in London, ahead of the New York Jets playing against the Miami Dolphins at London's Wembley Stadium on 4 October Getty Images People news in pictures 1 October 2015 An honor guard opens the door as Russian President Vladimir Putin enters a hall to attend a meeting with members of the Presidential Council for Civil Society and Human Rights at the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia People news in pictures 30 September 2015 Former Mrs America Lisa Christie, who alleges misconduct by Bill Cosby, holds up photos of her younger self during a news conference at the law office of attorney Gloria Allred in Los Angeles People news in pictures 29 September 2015 Matt Damon has defended himself against claims that he instructed gay actors to remain in the closet. He had said I think youre a better actor the less people know about you and sexuality is a huge part of that. Whether youre straight or gay, people shouldnt know anything about your sexuality but an appearance on the Ellen DeGeneres show said, I was just trying to say actors are more effective when theyre a mystery. Right? Getty People news in pictures 29 September 2015 Actor Marion Cotillard has said that there is no place for feminism in Hollywood. Speaking to Porter magazine, she saidFilm-making is not about gender/ You cannot ask a president in a festival like Cannes to have, like, five movies directed by women and five by men. For me it doesnt create equality, it creates separation. I mean, I dont qualify myself as a feminist." Getty People news in pictures 29 September 2015 Actor Paul Walkers daughter, Meadow, is suing Porsche over her fathers death in a lawsuit that claims he was trapped in the burning car because of design flaws and the seat belt. The Fast and Furious star was killed when the Porsche Carrera GT he was a passenger in hit a pole in California in 2013. The driver, his friend Roger Rodas, also died when the vehicle burst into flames. AP People news in pictures 28 September 2015 Robert Mugabe waits to address the United Nations General Assembly. The leader of Zimbabwe reportedly exclaimed 'We are not gay!' as he criticised Western nation's "double standards and attempts to prescribe new rights that are contrary to our values, norms, traditions and beliefs. In 2013 he described homosexuals as worse than pigs, goats and birds. Reuters People news in pictures 28 September 2015 South African comedian Trevor Noah hosts the first 'Daily Show' since taking over from Jon Stewart as host. Stewart had presented the US satirical news show since 1999 and was described by Noah during the show as a 'Political father' 2015 Getty Images People news in pictures 25 September 2015 Sir Elton John may have received a phone call from the real Vladimir Putin. Mr Putin's spokesman announced he had made contact weeks after the singer was duped by pranksters pretending to be the Russian President. Getty People news in pictures 25 September 2015 Actor Leonardo DiCaprio was mistakenly declared as the artist who produced the Mona Lisa by Fox News anchor Shepard Smith. It was in fact Leonardo da Vinci. People news in pictures 24 September 2015 A new biography claims Donald Trump expected to be dead by 40 and never marry. The Guardian says the a new book also claims that in 1980, Mr Trump manufactured a fake vice-president of his real estate conglomerate, whom he called John Baron. People news in pictures 24 September 2015 The Dalai Lama has said that Britain's policy towards China is just about 'Money, money, money.' And asked 'Where is morality?' People news in pictures 24 September 2015 Puff Daddy secured the number-one spot on the Forbes Hip Hop Cash Kings list, with the publication calculating he made an estimated $60million (39m) between June 2014 and June 2015. A week ago last Friday, Hayeks caretaker was riding a horse on the property, about 70 miles south of Seattle, with Mozart and another dog running behind, when they starting barking and ran off. They came back and the caretaker carried on, but she then noticed one dog was no longer following. She searched for him and found Mozart lying dead and called the local sheriffs office. Sign up for a full digest of all the best opinions of the week in our Voices Dispatches email Sign up to our free weekly Voices newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Voices Dispatches email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Russian scientists have used a supercomputer to discover the best way to destroy an asteroid with a nuclear bomb. The team of researchers at Tomsk State University in Siberia ran a number of tests to figure out how to blow up 200-metre-wide asteroid with a nuclear weapon without causing the radioactive fragments to fall to Earth, using the 99942 Apophis asteroid as their model. With the help of the university's SKIF Cyberia supercomputer, the team found that a powerful warhead with a yield of 1 megaton (equivalent to 1 million tons of TNT, or 66 Hiroshima bombs), would be enough to obliterate the asteroid, reducing it to a cloud of gas and liquid droplets, leaving a few small solid fragments no more than 10 metres in diameter. Astrometry expert Tatiana Galushina believes a bomb with a yield of 1 megaton would be needed to destroy a 200-metre-wide asteroid (Pic: Tomsk State University) (Tomsk State University) Importantly, they also found it would be best to destroy the asteroid in a pre-emptive strike, rather than waiting until it was heading straight for Earth. Many potentially dangerous asteroids pass by the Earth multiple times, in long orbits. Blowing up the asteroid when it was heading away from Earth would reduce the possibility of the fragments hitting us. Astrometry expert Tatiana Galushina said: "Previously, as a preventive measure, it was proposed to destroy the asteroid on its approach to our planet, but this could lead to catastrophic consequences - a fall to Earth of the majority of the highly radioactive fragments." If the missile impacted behind the asteroid, "almost all the pieces after the destruction will fly forward." "For 10 years after the explosion an insignificant number of fragments will fall to Earth. Their radioactivity during this time will be reduced considerably, and after a few years they will not pose a danger," she said. Galushina pointed out that using nuclear weapons in space is against the terms of the Outer Space Treaty. However, she believes that in the case of a "real threat to humankind," an exception to the rule would be made. The Tomsk astronomers are not the only Russian scientists focusing on this area of research - in January, experts from the Russian space agency took part in a pan-European study which looked at the possibilities of using nuclear weapons to save the Earth from a deadly asteroid strike. However, one member of the country's scientific community is not sold on the idea - speaking to the state-owned TASS news agency, Boris Shustov, Director of the Russian Institue of Astronomy, said it was like "using a steam-hammer to crack a nut." Sign up for a full digest of all the best opinions of the week in our Voices Dispatches email Sign up to our free weekly Voices newsletter Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Voices Dispatches email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} British scientists have created super-thin flexible graphene sheets, which they believe could be used to create 'smart wallpaper' capable of generating electricity from the smallest amounts of light and heat. Researchers working at the University of Surrey's Advanced Technology institute (ATI) used a technique called nanotexturing to create the sheets, which involves growing graphene around a textured metallic surface. The team took inspiration for the design of the sheets from the natural world, mimicking the unique structure of moths' eyes in the construction of the material. Professor Ravi Silva, head of the ATI, explained: "Moths' eyes have microscopic patterning that allows them to see in the dimmest conditions. These work by channelling light towards the middle of the eye, with the added benefit of eliminating reflections, which would otherwise alert predators of their location." Graphene is known for its high electrical conductivity and strength, but is traditionally inefficient at light absorption. Typically, a graphene sheet would only absorb around two to three per cent of the light that hits it. However, by patterning graphene in a similar way to moths' eyes, they boosted its absorbency by 90 per cent, creating the most light-absorbent material for its weight that has ever been created. The technology is still in the early stages, but the team have big ambitions for the future. They see these sheets being embedded in wallpaper and window panes, absorbing waste light and heat from inside and outside the home and converting it to electricity, which could then be used for a number of applications. They also believe a number of 'Internet of Things' devices could be coated in these sheets, meaning they would not need to be constantly recharged or connected to the mains. The next step for the team is to start incorporating their material in different existing technologies. They are currently looking for industry partners to help take their creation forward. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A catholic priest has taken leave from the priesthood after being filmed snorting a line of cocaine in a room that appears to hold Nazi memorabilia. Video footage obtained by the Sun on Sunday shows Father Stephen Crossan sniffing the class-A drug with a rolled-up 10 note at his home in Banbridge, Northern Ireland. The 37-year-old seems to say the words I shouldnt as he snorts a line of white powder arranged on a plate. A statement from the bishop of Dromore said he had no knowledge of the incident, the BBC reports. A source told the Sun on Sunday the incident happened after Fr Crossan and a group of friends left a near-by party in July 2015. The source added they found Nazi memorabilia at Fr Crossans home, located in the grounds of St Patrick's Church, including flags, hats and a eagle with a swastika on a plinth. They told the paper: We were stunned to see the Nazi stuff. It was all over the house." Responding to the allegations, Fr Crossan, who no longer lives at the parochial house, told the paper he did take the drugs but it was just the one night and that was it. He added he was not a Nazi and collected historical items from all countries. Fr Crossan also said he had been on sick leave with depression when the video was taken and had since left the church. It is understood he still being backed by the parish. Bishop of Dromore John McAreavey said in his statement Fr Crossan has requested and been granted leave from his duties at Seapatrick parish in May 2015 and is receiving counselling. At the beginning of February 2016, the statement said the priest had asked for an extended leave of absence from the priesthood. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A gang of gunrunners smuggled more than 30 assault rifles and sub-machine guns capable of unleashing carnage on a terrifying scale into Britain on board a pleasure cruiser, a court has heard. Jurors trying alleged members of the gang heard how its claimed mastermind bragged we [are] now officially gangsters after the terrifying arsenal of Eastern European weaponry was landed at a small Kent marina last summer. But the evil shipment of 22 Czech-made assault rifles and nine sub-machine guns, which could have been sold on to drug dealers or hired out to gangsters, was being tracked by officers from the National Crime Agency (NCA), who moved in to make arrests as plans were being made to bury the weapons ahead of an onward sale. The alleged gang leader, Harry Shilling, 25, is on trial at the Old Bailey accused with three others Michael Defraine, 30, John Smale, 58, and 42-year-old Jennifer Arthy of gun smuggling and possessing firearms with intent to endanger life. Three people Richard Rye, 24, David Payne, 43, and 30-year-old Christopher Owen had earlier pleaded guilty to illegally exporting weaponry. The court heard that Mr Shilling, from Swanley, Kent, had come up with the plan and paid for the weaponry, using Defraine, from Bexleyheath, Kent, as his contact on the Continent, and Rye, described as a loyal lieutenant. UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 15 September 2022 Members of the public in the queue on in Potters Fields Park, central London, as they wait to view Queen Elizabeth II lying in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 14 September 2022 The first members of the public pay their respects as the vigil begins around the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II in Westminster Hall, London, where it will lie in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2022 Crowds cheer as King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort arrive for a visit to Hillsborough Castle Getty UK news in pictures 12 September 2022 Crowds line the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, as King Charles III joins a procession from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles Cathedral following the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS UK news in pictures 11 September 2022 Members of the Public pay their respects as the hearse carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard of Scotland, is driven through Ballater AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 10 September 2022 Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales, Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, wave at well-wishers on the Long walk at Windsor Castle AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 9 September 2022 King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort wave after viewing floral tributes to the late Queen Elizabeth II outside Buckingham Palace Getty UK news in pictures 8 September 2022 A screen commemorating Britain's Queen Elizabeth II in Piccadilly Circus, London Britain EPA UK news in pictures 7 September 2022 Police officers stand guard after Animal Rebellion activists threw paint on the walls and road outside the Houses of Parliament in protest, in London, Britain Reuters UK news in pictures 6 September 2022 Queen Elizabeth II welcomes Liz Truss during an audience at Balmoral, Scotland, where she invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2022 Visitors at the PoliNations garden in Victoria Square, Birmingham, which is made up of five 40ft high tree installations and over 6,000 plants. The PoliNations programme aims to explore how migration and cross-pollination have shaped the UKs gardens and culture PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2022 Undergraduates at the University of St Andrews take part in the traditional Pier Walk along the harbour walls of St Andrews before the start of the new academic year PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2022 The Massed Pipes and Drums parade during the Braemar Highland Gathering at the Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2022 Number 12 Company Irish Guards at Wellington Barracks, central London, before commencing their first Guard Mount at Buckingham Palace PA UK news in pictures 1 September 2022 A salmon leaps up the weir at Hexham in Northumberland, despite the drought warnings and low water levels, the River Tyne is still flowing well allowing the salmon and sea trout to head up river to spawn. Every year tens of thousands of salmon make the once-in-a-lifetime journey along the Tyne to spawn, having been out a sea PA The cruiser Albernina sailed across the Channel from Boulogne to Cuxton Marina, near Rochester, on 10 August last year with Payne as skipper. Ms Arthy, who lived with Payne on a houseboat in the marina, is accused with Smale and Owen of helping to buy and prepare the smuggling vessel and unload its cargo. Duncan Atkinson QC told jurors that the gang had planned to reap huge profits by buying guns, including previously deactivated assault rifles, at shockingly low prices in the Czech Republic or Slovakia and selling them on in Britain. Each of the 22 Czech assault riles, similar to an AK47, would have fetched up to 4,000, while the sought after Skorpion machine guns, originally developed for use by Czech special forces, would have netted 3,500 apiece. Mr Atkinson said: The prosecution contends that these guns were more than trophies they were working weapons and they came with a large amount of ammunition. The defendants intended these guns to be used, with ammunition, for the purpose for which they were designed as lethal weapons capable of unleashing carnage on a terrifying scale and they intended to profit from doing so. After arriving back in Britain on 10 August, Mr Shilling sent an email to Defraine saying We [are] now officially gangsters, to which Defraine responded: F***ing nice one. Mr Shilling, Defraine, Smale and Arthy deny the charges against them. Payne and Rye, from Swanley, have also admitted conspiring to supply firearms that would be used by others to endanger life. The trial continues. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Every year when the Travellers return from overseas to their spiritual home of Rathkeale, the streets of the small Irish town become clogged with expensive cars and the pubs filled with free-spending drinkers recounting their tales of success. The notoriety of the town the home to the eponymous Rovers crime group is unmatched by its population of 1,500. That number is swollen by several thousand more of the returning entrepreneurs who use their funds to buy property and increase the already stark divide between the Travellers and the settled community of the town. Fifteen years ago, they travelled predominantly to Britain for work. Now in a global starburst of activity from Rathkeale, they go to Europe, Canada and Australia, before returning to the town in Co Limerick. They come back to enjoy themselves and see their parents after being out in wilderness places, Richard Kerry OBrien Snr, told The Irish Times last year. The level of their success is marked by the size of the dowries during wedding season, the luxury of fittings in the new homes and the make of the new cars that drive through the streets, according to one resident, who declined to be named. This is what people cant understand: how can they fund those houses, they said. The best of stuff goes into them. Theres a lot of showmanship. At the height of the museum raids in Britain in 2012, property was changing hands in the town at a rate not seen during the era of the property bubble of the Celtic Tiger years, according to one councillor. A motion to the Limerick county council detailed dubious cash transactions by nameless and faceless tycoons. UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 15 September 2022 Members of the public in the queue on in Potters Fields Park, central London, as they wait to view Queen Elizabeth II lying in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 14 September 2022 The first members of the public pay their respects as the vigil begins around the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II in Westminster Hall, London, where it will lie in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2022 Crowds cheer as King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort arrive for a visit to Hillsborough Castle Getty UK news in pictures 12 September 2022 Crowds line the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, as King Charles III joins a procession from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles Cathedral following the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS UK news in pictures 11 September 2022 Members of the Public pay their respects as the hearse carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard of Scotland, is driven through Ballater AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 10 September 2022 Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales, Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, wave at well-wishers on the Long walk at Windsor Castle AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 9 September 2022 King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort wave after viewing floral tributes to the late Queen Elizabeth II outside Buckingham Palace Getty UK news in pictures 8 September 2022 A screen commemorating Britain's Queen Elizabeth II in Piccadilly Circus, London Britain EPA UK news in pictures 7 September 2022 Police officers stand guard after Animal Rebellion activists threw paint on the walls and road outside the Houses of Parliament in protest, in London, Britain Reuters UK news in pictures 6 September 2022 Queen Elizabeth II welcomes Liz Truss during an audience at Balmoral, Scotland, where she invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2022 Visitors at the PoliNations garden in Victoria Square, Birmingham, which is made up of five 40ft high tree installations and over 6,000 plants. The PoliNations programme aims to explore how migration and cross-pollination have shaped the UKs gardens and culture PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2022 Undergraduates at the University of St Andrews take part in the traditional Pier Walk along the harbour walls of St Andrews before the start of the new academic year PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2022 The Massed Pipes and Drums parade during the Braemar Highland Gathering at the Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2022 Number 12 Company Irish Guards at Wellington Barracks, central London, before commencing their first Guard Mount at Buckingham Palace PA A level of understanding of the source of some of those funds is provided in a policy briefing assessment by the European policing agency, Europol, about an Irish mobile OCG [organised crime group]. While members of the group specialise in stealing and trading rhino horn, their criminal talents are diverse and include involvement in drugs trafficking, tarmac fraud, counterfeit power tools, robbery and money laundering, according to the 2011 document. The town itself, say residents, is largely crime free. Community workers say it will be 100 per cent Traveller in a decade because nobody else wants to live or do business there. The towns community co-ordinator told a forum 80 per cent of private property in the town was owned by the Travelling community. The gang Richard Kerry OBrien snr, arrested but never charged The man described in court as the head of the OBrien family is a self-proclaimed successful businessman and was the largest distributor of cast-iron fireplaces in Ireland during the building boom. He was arrested during the 2013 police operation to round up members of the Rathkeale Rovers but was never charged. He claims he is the victim of harassment by the Irish Gardai and is suing Bloomberg Businessweek in the US over a story which he says falsely portrayed him as a criminal mastermind. Bloomberg declined to comment. Top row, from left: Ashley Dad, John Kerry OBrien Junior and Terence McNamara. Bottom row, from left: John Cash OBrien, Michael Hegarty and Alan Clarke (PA) John Cash OBrien, 68, convicted Richard Snrs brother and described by police as a top-tier international criminal with a conviction for a multi-million pound tobacco smuggling racket. OBrien, from Wolverhampton, recruited the burglary team who raided the Durham Oriental Museum. Although he sought to stand aloof from the crime, he was included during the round of panicked phone calls after the burglars lost the multi-million pound haul they stashed on waste ground. Daniel Turkey OBrien, 45, convicted Richard Snrs brother-in-law. In 2013 he was jailed for 16 months for stealing a rhino horn from an antiques dealer in Nottinghamshire. He had agreed to buy the horn from the dealer in a McDonalds car park in Newark, but instead snatched it and fled in a 4x4. The dealer, who was clinging to the car, was left with head injuries. While on bail and a day after the Fitzwilliam raid OBrien cut off his electronic tag and fled the country for 18 months. He spent time in Canada and Spain before he was arrested and returned to Britain. Richard Kerry OBrien Jnr, 31, convicted The son of Richard Snr is considered a high-ranking figure in the organisation. He was one of two men jailed for six months in the US in 2011 after being caught in an undercover sting operation in Colorado trying to export four black rhino horns to Ireland. Top row, from left: Paul Pammen, Donald Chi Chong Wong, Richard Sheridan, Robert Gilbert-Smith. Bottom row, from left: Richard Kerry OBrien, Patrick Clarke, Daniel Turkey OBrien (PA) John Kerry OBrien, 26, convicted Another son of Richard Snr. When he was arrested in 2013, police found a black notebook with his fingerprint on the back of the last page. The book itself contained a number of references to museums around the world, including Durhams Oriental museum. He had also telephoned the Hong Kong middleman Donald Wong in the immediate aftermath of the raid on the Durham museum. Michael Hegarty, 46, convicted Married to Richard OBrien Snrs daughter, Kathleen. He was jailed along with Richard OBrien Jnr for the Colorado rhino smuggling plot. The police operation to track phones showed that Hegarty was at the centre of operation planning. Richard Sheridan, 47, convicted John Cash OBriens son. The spokesman for the Dale Farm eviction protests and, along with his father, a convicted multi-million pound tobacco smuggler. He was jailed for a year in 2006 for the 9m duty evasion. When the conviction was brought up during his high-profile campaigning role, he told the Mail on Sunday: Ive already been punished for my crimes. Ive done my time this doesnt need to be brought up. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Two men convicted of kicking a 81-year-old grandfather to death in a racially motivated and unprovoked" attack have been jailed for 46 years. Mushin Ahmed died 11 days after he was punched, kicked and stamped on by Dale Jones and Damien Hunt, both 30, as he made his way to prayers at a Mosque in Rotherham in August last year. Jones, of Norwood Street, Rotherham, was convicted of murder and jailed for life with a minimum term of 32 years. Hunt of Doncaster Road, Rotherham, was convicted of manslaughter and jailed for 14 years. During the trial at Sheffield Crown Court, jurors heard Jones flew into raging fury fuelled by drink and drugs, accusing Mr Ahmed of being a groomer before attacking him. Prosecutor Andrew Robertson QC said: Jones immediately accused him of being a groomer. No doubt his word for paedophile and no doubt an accusation made by Jones for no better reason than Mr Ahmed was Asian." Shortly before the fatal attack, Jones racially abused an Asian taxi driver, a jury was told. Around 10 minutes later, Mr Ahmed emerged on to Doncaster Road. Mr Ahmed suffered extensive head and facial injuries from the attack and was kicked so hard the imprint of Jones' trainer was left on his face. His false teeth were also broken, with Hunts DNA later found in the shattered dentures, according to the BBC. Det Ch Insp Victoria Short said: "This brutal and unprovoked assault sent shockwaves through the local community, where Mr Ahmed was well-liked and highly regarded. "This extreme violence is nothing short of sickening and highlights just how dangerous these individuals are. "Hunt and Jones have never given an explanation for their own vicious actions that evening, but the court heard how Mr Ahmed was assaulted because of the colour of his skin, a fact that is as disturbing as it is despicable." Additional reporting by Associated Press Sign up to the Independent Climate email for the latest advice on saving the planet Get our free Climate email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Independent Climate email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} More than 50,000 badgers are to be culled in a dramatic expansion of Governments efforts to protect cattle against tuberculosis, according to a report. Over the past three years, just under 4,000 badgers have been killed in Somerset, Gloucestershire and Dorset at a cost of more than 5m. But The Times reported that the Government had now decided to expand the cull by killing more than 12 times that number at sites across the country, starting this autumn. Recommended Read more Government refuses to release badger cull cost analysis report Animal rights activists have protested that culling is ineffective in controlling TB and complained that badgers are being killed indiscriminately, whether they have the disease or not. And Dominic Dyer, chief executive of the Badger Trust, warned that a significant proportion of Englands badger population was at risk. Hundreds of thousands of badgers could be killed over the next five years and that would worry us greatly because we believe the population as a whole is probably less than half a million, he said. There is no evidence that the badger culls since 2013 have reduced the level of bovine TB in cattle. In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls Show all 11 1 /11 In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls badger-cull.jpg PA In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls badger-cull-2.jpg PA In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls badger-cull-1.jpg PA In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls badger-cull-3.jpg PA In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls badger-cull-4.jpg PA In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls badger-cull-5.jpg PA In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls badger-cull-6.jpg PA In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls badger-cull-7.jpg PA In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls badger-rx.jpg Rex Features In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls 14-badger-pa.jpg PA In pictures: Protesters demonstrate against badger culls badger-cull-10.jpg PA We would like to see the money wasted on badger culling spent on better TB testing systems for cattle and better fences and gates to reduce the risk of badgers getting into farmyards. Liz Truss, the Environment Secretary, last week said the cull had to be expanded. I want to see culling expanded across a wider number of areas this year. The chief veterinary officers advice is that this is the only way to secure the full benefits of our comprehensive strategy, she told the National Farmers Union conference. A trial of culling between 1998 and 2007 found that killing badgers could actually increase the spread of TB because infected badgers run off and spread the disease to other animals. When asked if the culls since 2013 had reduced rates of TB in cattle, a Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs spokeswoman told the Times that the Government was waiting to see the impact. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Firearms are increasingly being smuggled into the UK using parcel couriers, giving rise to the threat of a Paris-style terrorist attack, Britains top firearms officer has warned. Dave Thompson, chief constable of West Midlands Police and the national lead for countering firearms, also said he feared armed officers might not win initial encounters with heavily armed terrorists. He told the Guardian newspaper that the police needed a significant increase in firepower and more armed officers to deal with the potential threats. Traditionally it has been harder for criminals in the UK to get hold of firearms than elsewhere in Europe because being an island makes smuggling weapons across the border more difficult. Mr Thompson said: Traditionally youd have seen maybe six or seven years ago wed be stopping people at Dover with 10 Baikals [a type of firearm] concealed in compartments in the car. Thats become less of a feature. Whats become more of a feature is weapons through the fast parcel system, individual items coming through. We have to watch a trend of disassembling the weapons and sending them in component parts. The smugglers usually supply armed robbers and drug gangs with weapons but Mr Thompson warned they could decide to sell them to terrorists. We cant safeguard ourselves by relying on criminals who might have access to firearms to have benign intent, he said. Isis-inspired gunmen killed 130 people in Paris in November and Mr Thompson said the threat of a similar attack in Britain meant more armed officers were needed. While we do plenty of firearms operations, we deal with people [criminals] who there is not much debate we are going to win the encounter with, because were better trained, were better capable, they generally dont fire back at us, he said. But in Paris-style scenarios, he said officers would be dealing with situations where you are not guaranteed winning in the encounter early on and I need to give the firearms officers the best chance to win. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Sales of Fairtrade products increased in volume last year, with tea, coffee, cocoa and bananas all getting a boost. This follows a slump in sales the previous year for the first time in the organisations 21-year history. Fairtrade wine sales increased by 17 per cent, and Fairtrade flowers saw a 14 per cent jump. The release of the figures coincides with the launch today of the organisations annual Fairtrade Fortnight. This years theme is Sit Down for Breakfast, Stand Up for Farmers, with events around the country to highlight the difficulty in getting enough food to eat by millions of smallholder farmers and workers supplying our breakfast tables. In a new report released, Fairtrade says periods of hunger are so acute for many farmers they have acquired their own names for it los meses flacos (the thin months) in Nicaragua, or chulga (food suffering) in Ethiopia. More than 30 per cent of children in the worlds main tea-producing areas are malnourished, and 80 per cent of cocoa farmers in Cote DIvoire live on less than 40p a day. Its outrageous that even in this day and age, when we know so much about the world, the people we rely on for our food are themselves going hungry, Michael Gidney, chief executive of the Fairtrade Foundation, told i. Customers are far more discerning about the quality of their food nowadays but we also need them to question where it is coming from. Mr Gidney cautioned that while the growth was encouraging, there was plenty still to be done: Were beginning to see what can really be achieved, but people mustnt believe that the job is done. Farmers are going hungry because we are not paying the true environmental and social cost of our food. Fairtrade Fortnight runs until 13 March. Go to civitasclc.com for more about Dinesh D'Souza and other dynamic speakers at the Conservative Leadership Conference on March 4-5To find out the truth about our country, conservative writers usually do research, then do interviews ... but Dinesh D'Souza is perhaps the first to do time.This is what makes his most recent book, "Stealing America," a powerful and thought-provoking revelation about politics and government in the United States today.D'Souza has a long career as a writer and a public intellectual. His 2010 book The Roots of Obama's Rage was described as the most influential political book of the year. He followed that in 2014 with the book Obama's America: Unmaking the American Dream. He moved into filmmaking with "2016: Obama's America." The film quickly rose to the second-highest grossing political documentary of all time.In the fall of 2014, he was hauled into federal court for improperly donating money to a friend who was running for the U.S. Senate. It's an offense that often goes unprosecuted, or is punished with a slap on the wrist, especially when the accused admits the crime and apologizes, as D'Souza did. D'Souza, however, was nearly sent to a federal prison and, in the end, was sentenced to eight months in a state-run confinement center in San Diego. That meant spending every night in captivity among convicted killers, robbers and drug dealers finishing up their sentences. He gained a view of life and the country he had never gotten before, and it stunned him.He got to know criminals and "began to see politics very differently," he wrote in the book. "I understood, for the first time, the psychology of crookedness. Suddenly I had an epiphany: this system of larceny, corruption and terror that I encountered firsthand in the confinement center is exactly the same system that has been adopted and perfected by modern progressivism and the Democratic Party. This book is an expose of Obama, Hillary, and modern liberalism not as a defective movement of ideas, but as a crime syndicate." He added, "This book is about a remarkable scheme to steal America."Yes, he goes on to write, even the FBI and DEA, not to mention the IRS, operate like gangs. As another inmate tells him, "You have to realize, homie, that Obama's a gang leader, just like I used to be."Parts of this criminal conspiracy, he asserts, are scams. Take "social justice." He describes it as a way to stir envy as a cover for taking your money and handing it out to various clients and cronies. Then there's Social Security, a Ponzi scheme that surreptitiously funds the government while placing Americans in a dependent state. Or sometimes the criminal activity is outright theft, as when the Affordable Care Act took over the health-care system for the benefit of bureaucrats and insiders.Even to conservatives this may seem like a far-out notion. But D'Souza is determined to make his case. For those on the right, some of the most intriguing passages are those in which he looks at the careers of Saul Alinsky, Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton in this light.Alinsky is the community organizer who was the ideological godfather for modern progressives. Clinton wrote her college thesis on him, and Obama began his activist career working with Alinskyite organizations in Chicago. What is most revealing, D'Souza says, is that Alinsky himself was a con man. He got his best ideas not from idealists and thinkers, but by studying Al Capone's mob. He claimed to be working for the people, but in a magazine interview he boasted about how his hustle worked for his own benefit. By the end of his life, he lived far from the mean streets of Chicago in beautiful Carmel, Calif.His proteges Obama and Clinton followed him, D'Souza wrote, with the difference being that Alinsky was a small-time crook, but they had their eyes on the biggest heist of all: the United States.D'Souza's key insight into Obama is one of those clues that's lying in plain sight. Yes, Obama called his memoir "Dreams from My Father." But, D'Souza writes, the truth is the president didn't so much seek to emulate Barack Obama Sr.'s African heritage or politics or intellect, but rather his career as a liar, fraud and con man. The results of the younger Obama's obsession with such a father are strewn across the last seven years of our history.As for Clinton, our readers are all too familiar with how she and her husband feathered their nest during their long careers of "public service."By the way, over the centuries other conservatives have made the same point. "Remove justice," St. Augustine wrote, "and what are kingdoms but gangs of criminals on a large scale?" D'Souza, however, is especially convincing, if only because he saw criminals up close at work today, and he has long studied their counterparts in government. These insights, and his portraits of the criminal class, make "Stealing America" a fascinating book.This is why we at Civitas are looking forward to his appearance at our upcoming Conservative Leadership Conference March 4-5 at the Embassy Suites Raleigh-Durham/Research Triangle hotel in Cary. Go to Civitasclc.com for more information. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Dozens of flights have been delayed after the runway at Londons Gatwick Airport was closed due to an apparent oil spillage. A spokeswoman for the airport confirmed there was a spillage which has now been cleared, amid reports that a Virgin Boeing 747 had dumped fuel on the tarmac. "The runway closure has caused some arriving flights to be diverted to a range of other airports in the area and there will be delays to some departing flights as a result," an airport official said. Gatwick initially told The Independent the incident began at around 10.30am on Monday morning but a woman sat in a jet stuck on the runway said her plane had been sitting around for almost an hour before that. Claire Rowland, waiting on board a Norwegian flight to Helsinki that was due to leave at 9.40am, said the lack of information provided by the airport was frustrating. Planes were stuck in a queue waiting for the runway to be cleared (image c/o Claire Rowland) (Claire Rowland (supplied)) We were initially just told there were delays, and it took quite a long time before we found out what the problem was, she told The Independent. Even after the pilot told us there was an oil spillage on the runway, I was looking at departures [online] and there was nothing on there to indicate to people that there was a problem. Ms Rowland, whose plane had been sat waiting for almost two hours more than half the length of her actual flight said it seemed like Gatwick didnt like broadcasting the fact there was a problem. These things happen, but I find the lack of information from the airport staggering, she said. They are one of the busiest airports in the world so there will be delays, but it is tempting to read this as deliberate. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} George Osbornes Northern economic powerhouse has been undermined by revelations in a new report that 10 of the UKs 12 towns and cities in greatest economic decline are in the North. Rochdale, Burnley, Bolton, Blackburn and Hull lead the list of places caught in a downward spiral of low employment and population growth. Not a single town from the South of England is among the worst 24 listed, which includes Grimsby ranked sixth, Bradford ninth and Liverpool in 19th place. The results call into question the Chancellors initiative, announced in 2014, to bridge the North-South divide and create a Northern Powerhouse for the UK, partly by devolving power to local authorities and creating metro mayors for big city areas such as Greater Manchester. Recommended Read more Osborne unveils devolution deals for Liverpool and Birmingham Deals behind closed doors rather than transparency and a comprehensive strategy for the North have hampered any signs of real progress, according to Josh Stott, the policy and research manager for the Joseph Rowntree Foundation (JRF), which commissioned the report. I think the vision of a Northern Powerhouse is right but it has been founded on deals struck behind closed doors rather than a coherent strategy or delivery, he said. Beyond the introduction of a metro mayor theres not really any delivery. The top 12 poorest cities in UK Show all 12 1 /12 The top 12 poorest cities in UK The top 12 poorest cities in UK 12. Wigan The study analysed the fortunes of 74 towns and cities. The index is based on changes in employment rates, levels of highly qualified workers, the numbers and types of full-time jobs, net migration rates, population changes and change in rank The top 12 poorest cities in UK 11. Stoke-on-Trent The top 12 poorest cities in UK 10. Blackpool The top 12 poorest cities in UK 9. Bradford The top 12 poorest cities in UK 8. Middlesbrough The top 12 poorest cities in UK 7. Dundee The top 12 poorest cities in UK 6. Grimsby The top 12 poorest cities in UK 5. Kingston upon Hull The top 12 poorest cities in UK 4. Blackburn The top 12 poorest cities in UK 3. Bolton The top 12 poorest cities in UK 2. Burnley The top 12 poorest cities in UK 1. Rochdale The Governments agenda has been orientated around growth. I would argue it would be better to have a growth agenda, joining up services for economic development, transport, education and skills. The economic fortunes of 74 British towns and their local labour market areas with populations of more than 100,000, were examined in the study Uneven growth: tackling city decline. It focused on employment rates, numbers of highly qualified workers in the area and migration rates. Full-time job creation in the 12 worst-performing cities fell by 2.1 per cent, compared with the national average of growth of 1.9 per cent, and 5.4 per cent in the top 12 best-performing cities. The JRF has suggested Government should give local councils a greater financial incentive to get people back to work. In a submission for next months Budget, the JRF said the Treasury could create financial incentives for councils to address unemployment through a welfare earn-back model, which would see the financial benefits of addressing unemployment shared between city regions and the Government. This could create a virtuous circle which helps achieve full employment, brings down the welfare bill and provides economic security for families. Rochdale fared worst in the survey, heading the cities on a downward trend. Its borough council claimed the research used outdated data, distorting the picture of the area. Steve Rumbelow, the councils chief executive, said: The outdated data used in this piece of research does not show what is happening in Rochdale right now. It does not take into account that we have seen hundreds of new jobs created and safeguarded in the past 12 months and our growth strategy and ambitions are creating new and better opportunities. Nor does it show that more than 100m of investment was made in Rochdale last year and companies are locating here because they know its the best-connected and most ambitious place in Greater Manchester. Rochdale was at the heart of the Industrial Revolution and will be at the heart of the Northern Powerhouse. But Mr Stott said Rochdale, like Bolton and Wigan, fell into the category of cities overshadowed by a larger, more powerful neighbour and work would need to be done to re-balance this. Greater Manchester, which includes Rochdale, Bolton and Wigan, has signed up to a devolution deal with the Government and will elect a metro mayor next year. Interim Greater Manchester Mayor, Tony Lloyd, said: Its no secret that for too long economic growth in the South has outstripped the North. Its the reason we need to take power from the corridors of Westminster and start making better local decisions that work for people in our communities. Were working to improve skills, get people back to work or into better jobs and grow our economy. But we need a fair deal from central Government that ensures we have the resources to make better local decisions and improve lives across Greater Manchester. Chris Fletcher, of the Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce, said: Obviously its disconcerting when reports such as this show that significant areas are lagging behind but this is partly what prompted the thinking and argument for the Powerhouse in the first place. The report identified three types of city in decline: core, such as Liverpool, overshadowed, such as Rochdale, both of which are most likely to benefit from a metro mayor, and freestanding such as Grimsby and Blackpool. The freestanding faced the greatest risk, according to researchers, as they had yet to benefit from any Northern Powerhouse initiative. James Wharton, the minister for the Northern Powerhouse, would not comment on the reports findings. However, his department claimed employment in the region was now at its highest ever level, with 7.5 million in work. A Department for Communities and Local Government spokesman, said: The Northern Powerhouse will transform our great Northern cities and rebalance the economy, having already helped create record employment rates and getting more than 440,000 people into work since 2010. We have secured a host of devolution deals, and invested in transport, science and the arts across the region, backed by more than 4bn of new funding from central Government. We want to harness the Norths massive potential to drive the UKs economy, and its prospects make it a lucrative place to invest and live. Get the free Morning Headlines email for news from our reporters across the world Sign up to our free Morning Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Morning Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Beatrix Potter's mischievous Peter Rabbit is to become the first children's literary character to appear on a UK coin. In a move certain to infuriate Mr McGregor, the anthropomorphic vegetable thief will feature on a silver 50p released to mark the 150th anniversary of the author's birth in 1866. The Royal Mint said three more Potter characters will feature on special edition coins released later in the year to complete a four-piece set. Uncoloured regular 50p coins featuring the designs will be released into general circulation later this year. The coins were created by Royal Mint designer Emma Noble, who has previously worked on pieces commemorating the Diamond Jubilee and Remembrance Sunday. She said: "I wanted to put Beatrix Potter's illustrations to the forefront of my design as they are lovely images and the characters are very well known. "I felt they were strong enough to stand alone and I designed them in this way as I thought they would work best for both the coloured commemorative and uncoloured circulating coins." Potter's children's book The Tale Of Peter Rabbit, the first to feature the character, was an instant success after being picked up in 1902 by British children's publisher Frederick Warne & Co. He went on to appear in five more books by the author who became linked with the Lake District. Potter died in 1943 aged 77. The coins are the second set announced by the Royal Mint this year to celebrate the sesquicentenary of Potter's birth, with gold and silver 50p pieces unveiled at the new year. PA Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Alan Craig, the Ukip activist who once exhorted his fellow Christian soldiers to march as to war against the Gaystapo, has had some good news. His adoption as a Ukip candidate for the London Assembly has been confirmed. His selection caused a rumpus because of his views on homosexuality. Craig has been accused by Pink News of advocating gay cure therapies. He says that is not true, but there is no dispute that in 2011, he posted a blog on his website under the heading Confronting the Gaystapo in which he likened the pressure groups Stonewall and OutRage! to the SS, the Home Office to Sudetenland, and David Cameron to Neville Chamberlain, and speculated that same-sex marriage could be the invasion of Poland, the catalyst for war and a cultural fightback. His main challenger, Richard Hendron, a gay activist, threatened to resign from Ukip when Craig was selected. Ukips deputy chairman, Suzanne Evans, tried to have his candidacy annulled, so provoking a petition to Say No to political correctness infiltrating Ukip, which has attracted nearly 2,500 signatures. Last week, Nigel Farage sacked Evans. No sooner was she out the door, than Craig was called in by party officials to have it confirmed that he is indisputably an approved Ukip candidate. Anyone who cannot tell a gay activist from Adolf Hitler now knows who to vote for. Victory out of self-defeat John Bird, founder of The Big Issue, explained his extraordinary journey from juvenile delinquency to the House of Lords in his maiden speech there. I was brought up to hate black people, Jewish people and even English people, because we were London-Irish, he said. I was brought up with all that poison. I was sent to all sorts of institutions. I slept rough and I stole. Someone asked me how I got into the House of Lords, and I said by lying, cheating and stealing because if I had not gone through that terrible self-defeat, I would never have been able to learn to read and write in a boys prison at the age of 16. John Bird, pictured in 2003, said he would not have become the man he is today if it wasn't for growing up in poverty (Getty Images) A stake in squirrels Rory Stewart, whose packed life before he was elected as a Tory MP included walking 6,000 miles from Pakistan to Nepal, has mastered Whitehall jargon since becoming an environment minister. Explaining what the Government is doing for the endangered red squirrel, he says in a Commons written answer that they are working together with a range of stakeholders under the UK Squirrel Accord, which aims to increase public awareness and support for action to protect red squirrels. I am all for protecting red squirrels, and I am sure the UK Squirrel Accord is second to none. What puzzles me is stakeholder. Are there people who have a stake in the future of the red squirrel? Are they gamblers? If so, is there an opposing set of gamblers who have a stake in the red squirrels extinction? We should be told. Too hot to touch Tom Bower, whose new biography of Tony Blair is creating waves even before its publication, was originally known as a biographer of business moguls who did not want him to write about them. His life of Conrad Black, the former owner of The Daily Telegraph, landed him in a protracted libel case in 2009. Oddly, it was not Lord Black who sued, but Richard Desmond, owner of the Daily Express, who objected to a single paragraph which said that he had been ground into the dust during business dealings with Black. Desmond lost the case, yet it may have achieved its purpose. Bower has written what is said to be a blistering biography of Desmond, but no publisher has yet risked bringing it out. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The Isis militant group is not being pushed back in Syria despite the extension of British air strikes to the country, ministers have admitted. Defence Secretary Michael Fallon told MPs that the situation in the country was complicated and that recent events on the ground had concerned the Government. Daesh are being pushed back in Iraq, theres no doubt about that theyre being pushed up the Tigris and theyre being pushed back West along the Euphrates, he told MPs in the House of Commons when asked about the situation there. In Syria the position is much more complicated and we are concerned at some of the more recent reports that may suggest coordination between Syrian democratic forces and the Assad regime, which is not helpful to the long-term aim of defeating Daesh. Mr Fallon said Isis was on the back foot in Iraq but that that is not happening yet in Syria and I ... am extremely concerned about the proliferation of Daesh along the Libyan coastline. The secretary of state however said the UK was playing possibly the second most important role in the coalition air campaign in Syria and had ran 2,100 combat missions against the group and carried out 600 strikes. Labours shadow defence minister Toby Perkins raised the issue of a reported Isis advancement against Kurdish fighters positions north of the city of Raqqa. Given that we were hoping the moderate forces were waiting to take the fight to Daesh this is of course concerning, he suggested. The SNPs Westminster spokesperson for Defence issues Brendan OHara warned that a dramatic increase of Isis fighters in Libya suggested that air strikes in Syria were displacing the militant group rather than killing them. In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Show all 20 1 /20 In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria Syrian citizens check a damaged house that targeted by the coalition airstrikes, in the village of Kfar Derian, a base for the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, a rival of the Isis group, between the northern province of Aleppo and Idlib In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria A Syrian boy (L) looking at a destroyed car that activists say was targeted by the coalition airstrikes, in the village of Kfar Derian, a base for the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, a rival of the Islamic State group, between the northern province of Aleppo and Idlib In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria Parts of a missile that activists say was fired by coalition airstrikes, in the village of Kfar Derian, a base for the al-Qaida-linked Nusra Front, a rival of the Isis group, between the northern province of Aleppo and Idlib In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria Tthe guided-missile destroyer USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) launching Tomahawk cruise missiles against Isis targets In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria The USS Arleigh Burke (DDG 51) launches a Tomahawk cruise missiles in the Red Sea, to conduct strike missions against Isis group targets in Syria In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria The guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58) launching a Tomahawk cruise missile against Isis targets in Syria, as seen from the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) in the Arabian Gulf In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria US navy sailors standing watch on the bridge while Tomahawk cruise missiles are launched against Isis targets in Syria, aboard the guided-missile cruiser USS Philippine Sea (CG 58), in the Arabian Gulf In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria An F/A-18C Hornet, attached to Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 87 prepares to launch from the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) in the Arabian Gulf, to conduct strike missions against Isis group targets AFP/Robert Burck In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria The US-led airstrikes in Syria against Isis targets in and around the city of Raqqa In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria A fighter from the Isis group holds a piece of what the IS is saying is a US drone that crashed into a communications tower in the Syrian city of Raqqa In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria Fighters from the Isis organisation pray at the spot where the jihadist group said a US drone crashed into a communications tower in the Syrian city of Raqqa In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria Fighters from the Isis group load a van with parts that they said was a US drone that crashed into a communications tower in the Syrian city of Raqqa In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria Fighters from the Isis group load a van with parts that they said was a US drone that crashed into a communications tower in Raqqa In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria Fighters from the Isis group gesture as they load a van with parts that they said was a US drone that crashed into a communications tower in Raqqa. A US-led coalition on carried out its first air strikes and missile attacks against jihadist positions in Syria, with Damascus saying it had been informed by Washington before the operation began In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria A Syrian man rides his bike past a communications tower that was destroyed after a US drone crashed into it, according to fighters with the Isis group, in the Syrian city of Raqqa In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria People inspect a shop damaged after what Isis militants say was a U.S. drone crashed into a communication station nearby in Raqqa In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria A man holds the remains of what Isis militants say was a U.S. drone which crashed in Raqqa In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria Resident gather in the back of a van the remains of what Isis militants say was a drone which crashed in Raqqa In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria A man inspects the remains of what Isismilitants say was a U.S. drone which crashed into a communication tower in Raqqa In pictures: Syria air strikes (2014) Syria A man inspects the remains of what Isis militants say was a U.S. drone which crashed in Raqqa A freedom of information request by the Huffington Post UK website earlier this month found that only seven Isis fighters had been killed by British bombs, according to Ministry of Defence records. Furthermore, the much vaunted Brimstone missiles, which David Cameron had pledged would cut off the snakes head in Syria and ministers had dubbed unique had killed no Isis fighters. Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn opposed air strikes in Syria on the basis that they would amount to another reckless, half-baked intervention. Recommended Read more Isis fights back in Iraq with Abu Ghraib raid He argued that the Prime Minister had failed to explain why extended the bombing of Isis would make a significant difference to the campaign in Syria when the group was already being bombed by the United States, Russia, France, and other power. Whether its the lack of a strategy worth the name the absence of credible ground troops the missing diplomatic plan for a Syrian settlement the failure to address the impact on the terrorist threat or the refugee crisis and civilian casualties: its become increasingly clear that the Prime Ministers proposal for military action simply doesnt stack up, he said in December last year. Sign up to our free Brexit and beyond email for the latest headlines on what Brexit is meaning for the UK Sign up to our Brexit email for the latest insight Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Brexit and beyond email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Boris Johnson was wrong to rule out Britain being able to remain in the EU even if the country votes to leave in June, former Tory leader Michael Howard has said. The mayor of London was forced to declare that out is out a week after appearing to keep open the option of a Leave vote resulting in fresh negotiations with Brussels and a second referendum on a better membership deal. David Cameron has dismissed the idea seen by some Out campaigners as a key weapon to reassure uncertain voters leaning towards quitting the 28-nation bloc as a complete fiction. Lord Howard on David Cameron He has been backed by the Former European Commission president Jose Manuel Barroso who said anything other than an EU exit after a Leave vote was unthinkable practically impossible. But Lord Howard said the UK would be so sorely missed by the rest of the EU that other leaders could offer more compromises. Asked about Mr Johnsons clarification, he told BBC1s Sunday Politics: I dont agree with him. The European Union has form on this: it has done it before in relation to Ireland, in relation to Denmark. The very things that make it certain that we would thrive as an independent country the fact that we are the fifth biggest economy in the world, the strongest military power in Europe, the fact that we are the second biggest contributor to the European Unions budget those things would mean we would be sorely missed if we did leave. That is why I think the EUs leaders would say, if we did vote to leave, lets have some more talks. I cant guarantee that would happen, but it is a possibility. If they dont come back. If all we are left with is the current, unreformed European Union, I think we are better out than in. What has the EU ever done for us? Show all 7 1 /7 What has the EU ever done for us? What has the EU ever done for us? 1. It gives you freedom to live, work and retire anywhere in Europe As a member of the EU, UK citizens benefit from freedom of movement across the continent. Considered one of the so-called four pillars of the European Union, this freedom allows all EU citizens to live, work and travel in other member states. What has the EU ever done for us? 2. It sustains millions of jobs A report by the Centre for Economics and Business Research, released in October 2015, suggested 3.1 million British jobs were linked to the UKs exports to the EU. What has the EU ever done for us? 3. Your holiday is much easier - and safer Freedom to travel is one of the most exercised benefits of EU membership, with Britons having made 31 million visits to the EU in 2014 alone. But a lot of the benefits of being an EU citizen are either taken for granted or go unnoticed. What has the EU ever done for us? 4. It means you're less likely to get ripped off Consumer protection is a key benefit of the EUs single market, and ensures members of the British public receive equal consumer rights when shopping anywhere in Europe. What has the EU ever done for us? 5. It offers greater protection from terrorists, paedophiles, people traffickers and cyber-crime Another example of a lesser-known advantage of EU membership is the benefit of cross-country coordination and cooperation in the fight against crime. What has the EU ever done for us? 6. Our businesses depend on it According to 71% of all members of the Confederation of British Influence (CBI), and 67 per cent of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), the EU has had an overall positive impact on their business. What has the EU ever done for us? 7. We have greater influence Robin Niblett, Director of think-tank Chatham House, stated in a report published last year: For a mid-sized country like the UK, which will never again be economically dominant either globally or regionally, and whose diplomatic and military resources are declining in relative terms, being a major player in a strong regional institution can offer a critical lever for international influence. Lord Howard a mentor to Mr Cameron, who served as his special adviser early in his political career, said telling the PM he was backing the other side had been very difficult. We had a conversation which was a difficult conversation, he said. I find it very painful to be on the opposite side of the argument from David Cameron. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The former Conservative Chancellor Ken Clarke has pressed George Osborne to slash the extremely generous pension tax breaks for the wealthy in the upcoming Budget. Just last week Mr Osborne warned that he may have to make fresh cuts to public spending at the Budget in March. He said that global economic turmoil and slower growth meant we may need to undertake further reductions, before adding he wanted to "root our country in the principle that we live within our means". Mr Clarke, who was Chancellor of the Exchequer under John Major between 1993 and 1997, said to the Times that the country could no longer afford the pension tax reliefs if the government intends to eliminate the deficit by the end of this parliament. According to the newspaper, Mr Osborne is weighing up reforms to the way pensions savings are taxed. One option is to set up pensions ISA and scrap rules that exempt earnings put into pensions schemes from tax. The second option is to slash pensions relief for higher-rate earners, which could bring in an additional 22 billion per year to the Treasury. People will always tell you that its not the right time to do difficult and unpopular things. The fact is that we still have a deficit to clear and are in uncertain times with many potential shocks, Mr Clarke said. I have always thought that sooner or later a Chancellor is going to have to tackle the extremely generous system of tax relief on pensions which subsidises the rich. Mr Osborne slowed the pace of public cuts in the last spending review but further cuts are to be expected in his March 16 statement to the Commons as figures have shown the UK economy was growing at a smaller rate than previously anticipated. He also said the global ecnonomy had got markedly worse. He added to the BBC: "Because of all of those things, we have to respond to those events. So that's what our plan is rooted in and it may require further reductions in spending. "I'll address that in the Budget but people should know this of me: I will do what is required to keep our country safe and secure." Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The Scottish Labour leader has attacked the SNPs cruel and unnecessary cuts to local councils as she laid out her partys plans to reform the countrys welfare system using the new powers being devolved to Holyrood from Westminster. Describing the upcoming Scottish Parliament vote in May as the countrys first tax and spend election, Kezia Dugdale said she wanted to use the new powers to chart a different course from Conservative-led austerity, which she said the SNP was unwilling to do. The Scottish Governments recent budget, which is expected to result in the countrys local authorities having to find 350m of savings, was evidence that there was nothing progressive about the SNP, she told party activists and supporters during a speech in Glasgow. Ms Dugdale said Scottish Labour would use the new powers over welfare in the Scotland Bill to help those who needed it, by raising the Carers Allowance and doubling the Sure Start maternity grant as well as abolishing the so-called bedroom tax. The Scottish Government is set to outline its own proposals on welfare on Tuesday. Labour has also proposed paying for public services by raising the Scottish rate of income tax, at the same time as offering a 100 rebate to those on lower incomes so they are not disadvantaged. The SNP has claimed that the policy would hit low-paid workers, which Ms Dugdale dismissed as shameless dishonesty. Taken together, across the Parliament, these plans will provide billions more for the Scottish budget, enabling us to invest in a fairer economy, as we will set out in our spending plans in the weeks ahead, Ms Dugdale said. UK news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 UK news in pictures UK news in pictures 21 October 2022 Sculptor Peter McKenna puts the finishing touches to a pumpkin that will form part of the Planet A Hebden Bridge Pumpkin Trail in the West Yorkshire town PA UK news in pictures 20 October 2022 Britains Prime Minister Liz Truss delivers a speech outside of 10 Downing Street in central London to announce her resignation AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 19 October 2022 Salmon leap up Stainforth Force on the River Ribble in the Yorkshire Dales as they swim upriver to their spawning grounds during the annual Salmon migration PA UK news in pictures 18 October 2022 Just Stop Oil protesters continue their protest for a second day on the Queen Elizabeth II Bridge, which links Kent and Essex and which remains closed for traffic, after it was scaled by two climbers from the group PA UK news in pictures 17 October 2022 Hundreds of students take part in the traditional Raisin Monday foam fight on St Salvator's Lower College Lawn at the University of St Andrews in Fife PA UK news in pictures 16 October 2022 A protester holds a placard during a march into central London at a demonstration by the climate change protest group Extinction Rebellion AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 15 October 2022 A member of the public drags an activist who is blocking the road during a "Just Stop Oil" protest, in London, Britain REUTERS UK news in pictures 14 October 2022 Germanys Womens double skulls during day one of the World Rowing Beach Sprint Finals at Saundersfoot beach, Pembrokeshire PA UK news in pictures 13 October 2022 Family and mourners arrive at St Michael's Church, in Creeslough, for the funeral mass of 49-year-old mother of four Martina Martin, who died following an explosion at the Applegreen service station in the village of Creeslough in Co Donegal on Friday PA UK news in pictures 12 October 2022 Motorists in Coventry pass trees showing autumnal colour PA UK news in pictures 11 October 2022 A woman and her dog in the the North Sea at Tynemouth Longsands beach before sunrise PA UK news in pictures 10 October 2022 Police officers remove a campaigner from a Just Stop Oil protest on The Mall, near Buckingham Palace, London PA UK news in pictures 9 October 2022 A drummer plays during the Diwali on the Square celebration, in Trafalgar Square, London PA UK news in pictures 8 October 2022 Timothee Chalamet attending the UK premiere of Bones and All during the BFI London Film Festival 2022 at the Royal Festival Hall, Southbank Centre, London PA UK news in pictures 7 October 2022 Two young male fallow deer lock antlers in Dublins Phoenix park as rutting season begins PA UK news in pictures 6 October 2022 The Princess of Wales during a cocktail making competition during a visit to Trademarket, a new outdoor street-food and retail market situated in Belfast city centre, as part of the royal visit to Northern Ireland PA UK news in pictures 5 October 2022 Greenpeace protesters interrupt Prime Minister Liz Truss as she delivers her keynote speech to the Conservative Party annual conference PA UK news in pictures 4 October 2022 Prime Minister Liz Truss and Britains Chancellor of the Exchequer Kwasi Kwarteng wearing hard hats and hi-vis jackets, visit a construction site for a medical innovation campus in Birmingham AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 3 October 2022 British artist Sam Cox, aka Mr Doodle, reveals the Doodle House, a twelve-room mansion at Tenterden, in Kent, which has been covered, inside and out in the artist's trademark monochrome, cartoonish hand-drawn doodles PA UK news in pictures 2 October 2022 Erling Haaland celebrates after scoring Manchester City's second goal against Manchester United at Etihad Stadium. Haaland went on to score a hattrick, his third of the season in the Premier League. City beat United 6-3. Manchester City FC/Getty UK news in pictures 1 October 2022 Protesters hold up flags and placards at a protest in London. A variety of protest groups including Enough is Enough, Don't Pay and Just Stop Oil all demonstrated on the day AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 30 September 2022 British Prime Minister Liz Truss, who has not been seen in days, leaves the back of Downing Street after a meeting with Office For Budget Responsibility following the release of her governments mini-budget Getty UK news in pictures 29 September 2022 The Virginia creeper foliage on the Tu Hwnt i'r Bont (Beyond the Bridge) Llanwrst, Conwy North Wales, has changed colour from green to red in at the start of Autumn. The building was built in 1480 as a residential dwelling but has been a tearoom for over 50 years PA UK news in pictures 28 September 2022 Criminal barristers from the Criminal Bar Association (CBA), demonstrates outside the Royal Courts of Justice in London, as part of their ongoing pay row with the Government PA UK news in pictures 27 September 2022 David White, Garter King of Arms, poses with an envelope franked with the new cypher of King Charles III 'CIIIR', after it was printed in the Court Post Office at Buckingham Palace in central London AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 26 September 2022 A gallery staff member poses next to a painting by Lucian Freud - Self-portrait (Fragment), 1956 - on show at a photocall for the Credit Suisse exhibition - Lucian Freud: New Perspectives at the National Gallery in London PA UK news in pictures 25 September 2022 Labour leader, Sir Keir Starmer is interviewed by Laura Kuenssberg in Liverpool before the start of the Labour Party annual Conference which he opened with a tribute to Queen Elizabeth II and sang the national anthem PA UK news in pictures 24 September 2022 Handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace of the ledger stone at the King George VI Memorial Chapel, St George's Chapel, Windsor Castle PA UK news in pictures 23 September 2022 A climate change activist protests against UK private jets while lighting his right arm on fire during the Laver Cup tennis tournament at the O2 Arena in London EPA UK news in pictures 22 September 2022 Woody Woodmansey, Lee Bennett, Kevin Armstrong, Nick Moran and Clifford Slapper attend the unveiling of a stone for David Bowie on the Music Walk of Fame at Camden, north London PA UK news in pictures 21 September 2022 A flock of birds in the sky as the sun rises over Dungeness in Kent PA UK news in pictures 20 September 2022 Flowers which were laid by members of the public in tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at Hillsborough Castle in Northern Ireland are collected by the Hillsborough Gardening Team and volunteers to be replanted for those that can be saved or composted PA UK news in pictures 19 September 2022 The ceremonial procession of the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II travels down the long walk as it arrives at Windsor Castle for the committal service at St Georges Chapel AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 18 September 2022 A man stands among campers on The Mall ahead of the Queens funeral Reuters UK news in pictures 17 September 2022 Wolverhampton Wanderers Nathan Collins fouls Manchester Citys Jack Grealish leading to a red card. City went on to win the match at Molineux Stadium three goals to nil. Action Images/Reuters UK news in pictures 16 September 2022 Members of the public stand in the queue near Tower Bridge, and opposite the Tower of London, as they wait in line to pay their respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, in London AFP via Getty Images UK news in pictures 15 September 2022 Members of the public in the queue on in Potters Fields Park, central London, as they wait to view Queen Elizabeth II lying in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 14 September 2022 The first members of the public pay their respects as the vigil begins around the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II in Westminster Hall, London, where it will lie in state ahead of her funeral on Monday PA UK news in pictures 13 September 2022 Crowds cheer as King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort arrive for a visit to Hillsborough Castle Getty UK news in pictures 12 September 2022 Crowds line the Royal Mile, Edinburgh, as King Charles III joins a procession from the Palace of Holyroodhouse to St Giles Cathedral following the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II Katielee Arrowsmith/SWNS UK news in pictures 11 September 2022 Members of the Public pay their respects as the hearse carrying the coffin of Queen Elizabeth II, draped in the Royal Standard of Scotland, is driven through Ballater AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 10 September 2022 Britain's Prince William, Prince of Wales, Britain's Catherine, Princess of Wales, Britain's Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, Britain's Meghan, Duchess of Sussex, wave at well-wishers on the Long walk at Windsor Castle AFP/Getty UK news in pictures 9 September 2022 King Charles III and Camilla, Queen Consort wave after viewing floral tributes to the late Queen Elizabeth II outside Buckingham Palace Getty UK news in pictures 8 September 2022 A screen commemorating Britain's Queen Elizabeth II in Piccadilly Circus, London Britain EPA UK news in pictures 7 September 2022 Police officers stand guard after Animal Rebellion activists threw paint on the walls and road outside the Houses of Parliament in protest, in London, Britain Reuters UK news in pictures 6 September 2022 Queen Elizabeth II welcomes Liz Truss during an audience at Balmoral, Scotland, where she invited the newly elected leader of the Conservative party to become Prime Minister and form a new government PA UK news in pictures 5 September 2022 Visitors at the PoliNations garden in Victoria Square, Birmingham, which is made up of five 40ft high tree installations and over 6,000 plants. The PoliNations programme aims to explore how migration and cross-pollination have shaped the UKs gardens and culture PA UK news in pictures 4 September 2022 Undergraduates at the University of St Andrews take part in the traditional Pier Walk along the harbour walls of St Andrews before the start of the new academic year PA UK news in pictures 3 September 2022 The Massed Pipes and Drums parade during the Braemar Highland Gathering at the Princess Royal and Duke of Fife Memorial Park PA UK news in pictures 2 September 2022 Number 12 Company Irish Guards at Wellington Barracks, central London, before commencing their first Guard Mount at Buckingham Palace PA What is extraordinary is that the SNP, even after the experience of recent years, are still wedded to the same outdated Celtic tiger ideas that we should compete, grow the economy and increase funding for public services by cutting taxes. There is nothing progressive about their plans. They will simply add to austerity rather than offering an alternative to it. Responding to her speech, SNP MSP Mark McDonald said Labours economic policies were neither credible or consistent. He added: Labour have not set out a single policy to grow the economy, instead they want to tax some of the lowest earners in our society and only last week voted against a living wage for the thousands of low paid people working in the care sector and increased investment in education. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Tony Blair was guilty of deception but not of lying when he kept fellow Cabinet ministers in the dark about his intention to go to war in Iraq, a former head of the Civil Service has been quoted as saying. Andrew Turnbull, who took over as Cabinet Secretary six months before the 2003 invasion of Iraq, is one of dozens interviewed by the writer Tom Bower, whose book on Tony Blair, Broken Vows, is published this month. Its publication comes ahead of the Chilcot report into the Iraq war, which is expected to appear in June or July after taking more than five years to complete. Mr Bower quotes Lord Turnbulls comment on a Cabinet meeting held a year before the Iraq war. Iraq was discussed, but Mr Blair did not tell his colleagues that there was a possibility of military action to remove Saddam Hussein. Recommended Read more Tony Blair rejects claims he hid Iraq war decision from ministers I wouldnt call it a lie, Lord Turnbull is quoted as saying. Deception is the right word. You can deceive without lying, by leaving a false interpretation uncorrected. The author also claims other officials were shocked by the unusually close relationship Mr Blair had with the head of MI6, Sir Richard Dearlove, who was the first to raise the possibility, after the 9/11 attacks, that Iraq held weapons of mass destruction and a suicide bomber might set off a nuclear explosion in London. Admiral Mike Boyce, then the new chief of defence staff, warned Mr Blair several times about the danger of getting embroiled in war, accurately predicting that the Afghanistan imbroglio could last 10 years. He also warned that the army needed more equipment before going into Iraq. Ten years on from the war, how the world forgot about Iraq Show all 5 1 /5 Ten years on from the war, how the world forgot about Iraq Ten years on from the war, how the world forgot about Iraq iraw.afp.jpg AFP Ten years on from the war, how the world forgot about Iraq iraq1.ap.jpg AP Ten years on from the war, how the world forgot about Iraq iraq2.get.jpg Getty Images Ten years on from the war, how the world forgot about Iraq iraq3.afp.jpg AFP Ten years on from the war, how the world forgot about Iraq iraq4.afp.jpg AFP Mr Blairs communications director, Alastair Campbell, reputedly chided the Admiral for being gloomy. He retorted: I dont tell people what they like to hear. His attitude irritated Mr Blair, who decided in October 2002 to get rid of him, but realised it would look bad to sack a defence chief so soon before going to war. Michael Williams, a Foreign Office Middle East specialist, warned Mr Blair in September 2002 that removing Saddam could lead to turmoil due to tension between Sunnis and Shias. Mr Blair is quoted in the book as replying: Thats all history, Mike. This is about the future. Mr Blair wrote privately to George Bush as early as December 2001 about the possibility of regime change, the book says, and during a visit to Mr Bushs Texas ranch in April 2002, promised to support military action that would bring about regime change. But he did not tell the Cabinet because he didnt trust them, Mr Bower alleges. Broken Vows by Tom Bowers also details aspects of Tony Blairs relationship with Wendi Deng, Rupert Murdochs former wife In public, Mr Blair persisted in saying that no final decision had been made. According to Mr Bower: No other Prime Minister had ever planned to start a war while distrusting his chief of defence, the Cabinet Secretary, the Foreign Secretary (Jack Straw), the Defence Secretary (Geoff Hoon) and most of his Cabinet.Mr Blairs habit of bypassing the Cabinet, preferring to operate through his chief of staff, Jonathan Powell, was not something new, according to Lord Turnbull. But, aside from Robin Cook, who resigned, most of the Cabinet appeared content not to know what was planned. The book also probes the relationship between Tony Blair and Wendi Deng, former wife of Rupert Murdoch. It suggests one cause of the Murdochs break-up was that Mr Blair stayed overnight at their California home when Ms Deng was there, but did not mention this when he met Mr Murdoch the next day. Mr Bower quotes the American billionaire Tim Collins, one of the Tony Blair Foundations former backers, as saying: The Wendi Murdoch affair put me off. The real man was revealed. Sign up to the Inside Politics email for your free daily briefing on the biggest stories in UK politics Get our free Inside Politics email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Politics email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Former Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis is to advise the Labour party, Jeremy Corbyn has confirmed. Mr Varoufakis led Greeces negotiating team with its creditors in the early days of the leftist Syriza government. The motorcycle-riding economist, who stepped down from his chief negotiator post in dramatic fashion now spends his time campaigning for democratic reform of the European Union. Varoufakis is interesting because he has obviously been through all the negotiations [with Greeces creditors, Mr Corbyn told his local newspaper the Islington Tribune. I think the way Greece has been treated is terrible and we should reach out to them. I realise we're not in the eurozone, but it's a question of understanding how we challenge the notion that you can cut your way to prosperity when, in reality, you have to grow your way to prosperity. So all our emphasis and work and campaigning is about an expanding economy and investing in an expanding economy. He added that Mr Varoufakis would advise Labour in some capacity. Greek finance minister Yanis Varoufakis leaves the finance ministry for good with his wife Danae Stratou (AFP) In an article posted on Friday, Mr Varoufakis said Greeces problems were not a compelling reason for Britain to leave the European Union. He said that though Greeces treatment was evidence that the EU was governed in an authoritarian, irrational and anti-democratic manner but that Britain should vote to stay in the EU in order to confront the EU institutions from within. Greek Finance Minister Yanis Varoufakis attacked by protesters in Athens restaurant The Greek economist, who has previously taught economics at the universities of Cambridge, East Anglia, and Essex, was notable by his absence from Labours council of economic advisors announced last year. That economic advisory panel, drawn up by shadow chancellor John McDonnell, included other key names such as Joseph Stiglitz, Mariana Mazzucato, and Thomas Pikketty. In pictures: Greek referendum Show all 28 1 /28 In pictures: Greek referendum In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum People celebrate in Athens after the first exit-polls of the Greek referendum Getty Images In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum A "No" supporter flashes a victory sign before a Greek flag atop the parliament in Athens, Greece July 5, 2015.Greeks voted overwhelmingly "No" on Sunday in a historic bailout referendum, partial results showed, defying warnings from across Europe that rejecting new austerity terms for fresh financial aid would set their country on a path out of the euro. REUTERS/Yannis Behrakis In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Supporters of the No vote react after the first results of the referendum at Syntagma square in Athens AP In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Supporters of the No vote wave Greek flags after the referendum's exit polls at Syntagma square in Athens AP In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Greece's finance minister Yanis Varoufakis casts his vote in the country's referendum EPA In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum A ballot box is emptied by a voting official at the closing of polling stations in Athens, Greece July 5, 2015. Greece voted on Sunday on whether to accept more austerity in exchange for international aid, in a high-stakes referendum likely to determine whether it leaves the euro-currency area after seven years of economic pain. REUTERS/Marko Djurica In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum A photographer photographs a man waiting to vote in the referendum at a school in the suburbs of Athens Getty In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Greek voters are being asked to choose between backing their creditor's austerity measures or rejecting them Getty In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Tourists walk past posters with slogans that read OXI (NO) and NAI (YES) ahead of the referendum in Athens AFP In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Opposition parties to Syriza, including the centre-right New Democracy, are campaigning for a Yes vote in the referendum Reuters In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Protesters on both sides of the argument ('No' pictured here) have rallied in Athens AP In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras has been branded reckless and a feckless liar by EU leaders Reuters In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum According to polls which surveyed some 1000 people across the country, 41.5 percent of Greeks would support the new bailout measures to avoid an exit from the Eurozone AP In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Despite Tsipras's assurances, many Greek people are not certain whether Sundays referendum is a vote on whether Greece will remain in the euro or not Reuters In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum The Greek and EU flags flutter in front of the ancient Acropolis hill in Athens. The Greek people have been called upon to show calm and national unity Getty In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Greek Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras addresses a crowd of 25,000 'No' supporters in Athens' Syntagma Square YANNIS BEHRAKIS/Reuters In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Greeces Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras gave a televised address to the nation ahead of the vote. He has called on voters to reject creditors proposals for more austerity in return for rescue loans AP In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Protesters march holding a torn European Union flag during a demonstration for the 'NO' campaign in Thessaloniki Getty Images In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Greek Finance minister Yanis Varoufakis has pledged to resign if his country votes yes to the bailout plan Reuters In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Pensioner wait to get their pensions outside a National Bank of Greece branch in central Athens. Banks only opened for pensioners to allow them to get their pensions, with a limit of 120 euros. AFP/Getty Images In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Protesters attend an anti-austerity pro-government rally in front of the parliament building Getty In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum The possibility of Greece leaving the Eurozone is increasing by the day. Merchandise already exists to accompany the event EPA In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum An elderly man waits to receive his pension outside the closed National Bank of Greece headquarters in Athens AP In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum People stand in a queue to use an ATM outside a closed bank in Athens AP In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum A banner supporting the NO vote in the upcoming referendum hangs from the offices of the Greek Finance Ministry Getty Images In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Greeks will be asked whether they accept the austerity terms demanded by the country's creditors Getty In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Eurozone finance ministers expressed disappointment at the Greek decision to hold a referendum on the bailout terms Getty In pictures: Greek referendum Greece EU Referendum Alexis Tsipras, the Greek Prime Minister, said bailout conditions had asphyxiated his country EPA Mr Varoufakis has previously described himself as an erratic Marxist and has also advised the videogames developer Valve on economics. Tom Campbell The circus came to Raleigh this week - not the farewell tour of thick-skinned pachyderms - but one in which other elephants were in the center ring.Faced with the mandate from a three-judge federal panel to redraw Congressional Districts 1 and 12 within ten days, the state appealed to the U.S. Supreme Court to stay that order. Legislative leaders were virtually assured their appeal would be successful, therefore allowing the March 15th Primary Elections for Congressional seats to go on as scheduled. As part of this great circus lawmakers held a statewide public hearing on redistricting Monday but it was little more than a show, minus the calliope, peanuts, Crackerjacks and clowns - though some likened lawmakers to those with the white painted faces and big red noses.That hearing proved that redistricting is an issue that stirs the passions and interests of more than just the inside-the-beltline politicos and left legislators wishing they had not staged it. Comments were heated enough to melt the snow and ice that blanketed our state and should have been a wake-up call that lawmakers are the villains in this redistricting saga. Voters are weary of redistricting efforts that effectually allow legislators to choose their voters instead of drawing competitive districts in which voters select their representatives. Repeated Republican soliloquies that Democrats did this for decades only confirm that two wrongs don't make a right.Events changed dramatically on the way to the stay by the Supreme Court. Justice Antonin Scalia's untimely death threw the conservative plurality of the court into a partisan stalemate. The remaining justices are split evenly along party lines, so a tie vote kicks the issue back to the three-judge panel that has already ruled the two districts are unconstitutional and must be redrawn. This speaks to the state of our highly partisan appellate courts on both the state and national level.The next act, as daring as walking the high wire without a net, challenged those who had opposed the current districts by declaring "you can't have it both ways." Legislators said they would comply with the three-judge panel and therefore would not use race as any factor in redrawing the two districts. As might be suspected, those who opposed the original districts were forced to back up, explaining, that their opposition was to the stacking and packing of the 1st and 12th districts, then quickly adding that race must have some consideration in accordance with the Voting Rights Act.While this is all fascinating fodder for those watch every nuance under the political big top it demonstrates the absurdity in moving our primary elections from the traditional second Tuesday in May to March 15th. Lawmakers had justified their decision by proclaiming the move would produce two benefits: the March date would allow our state to be a player in the presidential nomination process, while also saving the state millions of dollars by holding only one primary election.29 other states will have held presidential contests before North Carolina and it increasingly looks as if our voice will not be so significant. Further, there is no way new districts can get necessary approvals by March 15th, so a May congressional primary is almost a certainty.It doesn't appear we will enjoy either of the promised benefits. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Six cases of mutilation and murder of children as "good luck" sacrifices have been reported during the recent Ugandan elections, a children's charity has said. Shelin Kasozi of Kyampisi Childcare Ministries (KCM), a charity which cares for survivors of attempted child sacrifice, said these sorts of cases were common at election time as "some people believe blood sacrifices will bring wealth and power". She told the Thomson Reuters Foundation that the cases had been reported from October to February in the Ssembabule, Mukono, Buikwe and Mubende districts in central Uganda. Suspects have been arrested but their cases are yet to go to court. President Yoweri Museveni won a fifth term in power at the election on 18 February in a vote widely criticised by the EU and the US but ordinary Ugandans also voted in municipal and parliamentary elections. Moses Binoga, the co-ordinator of the anti-trafficking task force at the interior ministry, said several children had been reported missing during the election period but did not confirm the KCM's report. He said the investigation was ongoing. World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty Mr Binoga confirmed there had been seven child and six adult sacrifice cases recorded in the country in 2015 compared to nine child and four adult sacrifice cases reported in 2014. He said their mutilated bodies had been found - some with hearts or livers ripped out and in two cases the victims' heads were missing. A 2014 report by the UNHRC found that although many condemned the practice there were still some who believed that the ritual spilling of blood was necessary to celebrate success, chase away evil spirits or protect someone from bad luck. Throughout Uganda's history these sacrifices have traditionally been of livestock such as goats, chickens or cows - but a number of "socio-economic and cultural factors" such as poverty, lack of education and inequality has led to a worrying rise of children being targeted. The practice has been able to take root because of "inadequacies in the investigations processes conducted by security agencies...due to lack of forensic evidence facilities...and the absence of a specific law governing traditional healers". Corrupt "witchdoctors" have also allegedly been exploiting traditional beliefs to sell body parts. Children are said to be particularly targeted because they are seen as 'pure' and 'spiritually clean' (file photo) (Getty Images/AFP) It highlighted the case of a man who severed the heads of his three-year-old twins to sell them to a businessman for 12,000,000 Ugandan shillings (2587) in 2008. Of the three groups believed to be vulnerable to sacrifice - children, women and the elderly - children are the most likely to be targeted as they believed to be more "pure" and "spiritually clean". It comes as a separate UN report said last year that attacks on albino people in Africa were on the rise and were linked to the growing demand from political candidates for body parts used in black magic in several African countries. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Suicide bombers from al-Shabaab are planning several suicide attacks against Kenyan airports, leaked intelligence reports suggest. Security has been increased at major airports following a memo from the Kenya Airports Authority (KAA) warning of attacks by the al-Qaeda affiliated group. The leaked KAA internal memo, sent to all airport managers across the country, suggests suicide bombers intend to pose as passengers and blow themselves up during landing. According to the memo, a team of 11 suicide bombers have undergone training within Somalia to carry out airborne suicide missions in March. The memo says: "Five operatives will target Jomo Kenyatta International Airport or Wilson Airport while the rest will focus on airports at the Coast region, among them Moi International Airport (MIA) in Mombasa. KAA acting managing director Yatich Kangogo confirmed the legitimacy of the memo, but said the information was released to the public prematurely. Of course KAA is aware of the prevailing global terrorism threats which have been issued among others by Al Shabaab who have gone public and issued threats against Kenya, he told Capital News. We have consequently raised our operational threat category to high alert in conjunction with other national security organs who have also increased vigilance to counter any potential threats. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A police officer who resigned after being filmed kicking a black man in the head, breaking his jaw, has been handed a $230,000 pay out. Thomas Webster IV, a former corporal with Dover Police Department in Delaware, US, was awarded the sum in an out of court settlement with his former employers. In August 2013, Webster was caught on police dashcam kicking 29-year-old Lateef Dickerson in the face as he knelt down to lie on the floor, as ordered by police. Webster was awarded the sum in an out of court settlement (Dover Police) The kick knocked him unconscious and fractured his jaw. Webster was acquitted of assault by a jury in December, and it was announced last week he was leaving the police force with immediate effect. He has been placed on administrative leave until his contract expires in June. Details of the agreement were obtained through a Freedom of Information request by Associated Press. Recommended Read more Police officer guilty of manslaughter for shooting unarmed black man It reveals that Webster will be paid $230,000 over the next six years, roughly half of his $68,000 salary. He is forbidden from entering Dover Police building or communicating with any of its representatives. He may also not seek employment within Dovers government. Dover mayor Robin Christiansen told Delaware Online: Everyone involved in the discussions considered what was in the best interest of the community, He can seek employment wherever he would like, I guess. Sign up to our free fortnightly newsletter from The Independent's Race Correspondent Nadine White Sign up to our free fortnightly newsletter The Race Report Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the The Race Report email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The identity of a 17-year-old teenager shot by police in the US has been confirmed - in an incident which saw protesters take to the streets and an investigation into police conduct launched. Abdi Mohamed, of Salt Lake City in Utah, was arguing with a man while holding a broomstick when he was allegedly fired on by police after being given "one chance" to drop his "weapon". The mayor of the city has said such "use of force" by the police must be taken "extremely seriously" after 100 officers followed up on the shooting to get rid of an upset and angry crowd. Abdi, who has a girlfriend and a son, is now in a critical condition in hospital after two officers hit him in the chest and stomach on Saturday evening. Jackie Biskupski, the city's mayor, said in a statement she had had a "serious conversation" with police chief Mike Brown on whether attempts at de-escalating the situation had been made by officers before they decided to shoot Mr Mohamed. She said the shooting was the "third significant use of force" incident by the Salt Lake City Police Department in the last month. "While the shooting is still under investigation, there is no doubt what happened is a tragedy for all involved, and for our entire city," she said. "The use of force by law enforcement against the public can tear at the delicate balance of trust between both sides and must be taken extremely seriously." Four people were arrested for civil disorder after protesting at the shooing of a young black man, and father-of-one, in Salt Lake City, Utah, US Testaments from witnesses and police on how events unfolded appear to contradict one another. Selam Mohammed, Abdi's friend, told Fox 13 News that crowds were outraged because the teenager had not been given a chance to surrender after being found arguing with a man at about 8pm. "We were trying to break it up before the police even came, but the police ran in on foot and pulled their guns out already," he said. "They already had him - like, as soon as [the policeman] was running he was already grabbing for his gun, not even trying to Tase him or anything." Abdi moved to Utah 10 years ago and was born in Kenya, according to the New York Daily News. Salt Lake City Police Department, meanwhile, said he did not drop the broomstick and moved towards the man he was in an argument with. "Officers confronted two male suspects and ordered them to drop their weapons," it said in a statement. "One of the males complied and dropped the weapon, the other continue to advance on the victim and was shot by officers." Following the shooting, a crowd grew on the street expressing anger at the officers for what they saw as a dispropotionate use of force on a young black boy. Four more people were arrested for "crimes relating to civil disorder" after objects were reportedly thrown by the crowd at police in riot gear. An investigation into the conduct of the two policemen who shot Mr Mohamed are now under way, with footage from cameras on the officers' chests being used. They are both on leave as the investigation by the Unified Police Department is carried out. Their findings will be turned over to the District Attorney's office. Police shot more than 1,000 people in the US in 2015. Black people were twice as likely to be shot by police than white people in any given incident, according to The Guardian. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The controversy over Donald Trumps apparent failure to disavow the support of a white supremacist and former Ku Klux Klan leader took another twist when the tycoon blamed a faulty earpiece for not understanding what was being asked of him. Last week, David Duke, a white nationalist and former Ku Klux Klan grand wizard, told listeners to his radio show that voting against Mr Trump would be treason to your heritage. Voting for these people, voting against Donald Trump at this point is really treason to your heritage, Mr Duke said, referring to Mr Trumps rivals. Former Ku Klux Klan official David Duke urged supporters to vote for Mr Trump (YouTube) On Sunday, Mr Trump was asked by CNN whether he would disavow the comment, as demanded by the Anti Defamation League, a Jewish civil rights group. I dont know anything about David Duke. I dont know anything about what youre even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists, he said. Youre asking me about something I know nothing about. Mr Trumps rivals, among them Senator Marco Rubio, seized on the apparent slip. They contrasted Mr Trumps response to that of Ronald Reagan when the KKK announced its support for him in 1994. Those of us in public life can only resent the use of our names by those who seek political recognition for the repugnant doctrines of hate they espouse, Reagan said in a statement. Mr Trump is the frontrunner to win the Republican nomination (Getty) The politics of racial hatred and religious bigotry practiced by the Klan and others have no place in this country, and are destructive of the values for which America has always stood. Amid a storm of outcry on social media, Mr Trump tweeted a comment he had made last Friday, in which he said he did disavow Mr Duke. On Monday, speaking on NBC television, Mr Trump claimed he had spent the weekend dismissing Mr Dukes support. He also said he could not properly hear what was being asked of him. Im sitting in a house in Florida with a very bad earpiece they gave me and you could hardly hear what he was saying, said Mr Trump. First of all he talked about David Duke and other groups. I know who he is but I never met David Duke. I disavowed David Duke a day before at a major press conference. Commentators pointed out that Mr Trump must have known who Mr Duke was. But when he considered running for president as a third-party candidate in 2000, he declined to accept the support of the Reform Party, citing Mr Dukes involvement with the group. Sign up for the daily Inside Washington email for exclusive US coverage and analysis sent to your inbox Get our free Inside Washington email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Inside Washington email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} His firebrand campaign close to a cliff edge, Senator Ted Cruz has rushed to protect his home flank, imploring a ballroom filled with several hundred supporters in South Dallas to stay at his side as his own state of Texas and 10 others vote on Super Tuesday, a vital milestone in the nomination race. In a searing speech, Mr Cruz repeatedly assailed Donald Trump, who appears set to win if not Texas, where Mr Cruz holds a lead according to polls, then perhaps most of the other states voting on Tuesday, inflicting still further damage on both his own campaign and that of Senator Marco Rubio of Florida. Super Tuesday is the most important day in this entire primary season. We are going to have a very good Super Tuesday, he said, before virtually begging the room to help build turnout among his supporters in Texas and beyond. Should he lose in Texas, Mr Cruz would face pressure to leave the race. If you dont think Donald Trump is the right candidate to go head to head with Hillary Clinton then this is the only campaign that has gone against Hillary Clinton and the only campaign that can beat Hillary Clinton, he declared. But it was at Mr Trump that he aimed his cannons, accusing him of being naive on Middle East policy, giving donations to Democrats who backed immigration reform in Washington in 2013 and hiring hundreds of foreign workers instead of Americans at his resorts. You dont get to abuse and take advantage of American workers and suddenly style yourself a champion of American workers, he said. Nothing is predictable in this election. If Mr Trump falls short of expectations today, it is likely to have less to do with the strength of his rivals and more with his stumbles, including his failure in a CNN interview on Sunday to condemn the Ku Klux Klan and spurn the endorsement from the former KKK Grand Dragon David Duke. Yesterday, he claimed he had not understood the question, because of a faulty earpiece. In pictures: US Elections 2016 Show all 15 1 /15 In pictures: US Elections 2016 In pictures: US Elections 2016 Democratic U.S. presidential candidate Bernie Sanders speaks to supporters after rival candidate Hillary Clinton was projected as the winner in the Nevada Democratic caucuses Reuters In pictures: US Elections 2016 Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton takes photos with workers at her campaign office in Des Moines, Iowa AP In pictures: US Elections 2016 Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee, second from left, prays before lunch with supporters at Drake Diner in Des Moines, Iowa Reuters In pictures: US Elections 2016 Democratic presidential candidate and former Maryland Governor. Martin O'Malley, speaks during a campaign stop in Waterloo, Iowa AP In pictures: US Elections 2016 Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders speaks, as his wife Jane OMeara Sanders looks on, at a campaign event at Iowa State University Getty In pictures: US Elections 2016 Republican presidential candidate Marco Rubio speaks at St. Ambrose University in Davenport, Iowa Reuters In pictures: US Elections 2016 Republican presidential candidate Ben Carson speaks at a campaign event at Fireside Pub and Steak House in Manchester, Iowa. Getty In pictures: US Elections 2016 Republican presidential candidate Rick Santorum visiting supporters at a house party in West Des Moines, Iowa Reuters In pictures: US Elections 2016 Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump at a campaign event in Cedar Rapids, Iowa AP In pictures: US Elections 2016 Republican candidate Ted Cruz campaigns at Greene County Community Centre in Jefferson, Iowa AP In pictures: US Elections 2016 Senator Rand Paul speaks during a Caucus rally at his Des Moines headquarters in Iowa Getty In pictures: US Elections 2016 Republican candidate Jeb Bush speaks at a campaign event in Des Moines, Iowa AFP In pictures: US Elections 2016 Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin introducing the arrival of Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Cedar Rapids, Iowa Reuters In pictures: US Elections 2016 A portrait of Democratic candidate Bernie Sanders at his campaign headquarters in Des Moines, Iowa Getty In pictures: US Elections 2016 Campaign badges on sale ahead of a Trump rally at the Ramada Waterloo Hotel and Convention Centre in Waterloo, Iowa Getty Mr Cruz has built his campaign on a southern strategy from the start, which either crumbles or bears fruit today when, aside from Texas, a welter of southern states filled with the evangelical Christians he would normally count on, including Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia and Oklahoma, also vote. Yet that base of support has been plundered by Mr Trump, who has outperformed Mr Cruz among evangelicals and conservatives in those states that have already voted. In Nevada last week, Mr Trump won 40 per cent of the evangelical vote, further sabotaging the main strategic premise of Mr Cruz: that born-again Christians would rise up, across the South especially, and carry him to the nomination. For Republicans still not convinced by Mr Trump, or just despairing of him, the options are running out. Among those who filled the Gilles Ballroom in Dallas for the Cruz event, Cynthia Stewart, a retired college administrator, said she thought it unlikely the Texas Senator or anyone else would be able to stop the Trump train. But then she could barely imagine that might mean voting for Mr Trump in November. For me it will always be anybody but Hillary, she said. But my goodness, Im afraid it is going to come down to Donald Trump. He will have so many pitfalls, but I may have to vote for him. Its very depressing, added Gary Rains, 56, a reservoir engineer, a self-described constitutional conservative and Cruz backer. Mr Trump was brainwashing the uneducated, he offered. I dont know if he is going to be able to keep it up but if Ted Cruz isnt nominated, I think Trump will be beaten by Hillary Clinton. I cant see how we can have four years of Clinton our country will be destroyed. As Mr Cruz has been drowned out by Mr Trump, so he has also struggled to separate himself from Mr Rubio, who led the charge against the billionaire at a debate in Houston last week and has won the support of the party establishment. Each man urgently needs the other to drop out so they can lead the anti-Trump forces. But if Mr Cruz wins Texas and Mr Rubio also makes respectable second-place showings elsewhere today, neither man will be inclined to do so. Which is what Mr Trump will want. Sign up to our Evening Headlines email for your daily guide to the latest news Sign up to our free US Evening Headlines email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Evening Headlines email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} An American student detained in North Korea since early January was arrested for attempting to steal propaganda from Pyongyang hotel, the regimes official state media has said. Appearing in a video Otto Warmbier, escorted by North Korean guards, read out a statement in which he confessed to severe crimes against the secretive state and begged for forgiveness. A second video posted by CNN shows the 21-year-old Virginia student on the verge of tears as he makes his plea. Mr Warmbier was identified by the regimes state-run KCNA news agency on January 1 as an American who was detained before boarding a flight to China. It said he entered North Korea as a tourist and was "was caught committing a hostile act against the state," which it said was "tolerated and manipulated by the U.S. government" In the video the American student said: On the early morning of January 1 2016 I committed my crime of taking out the important political slogan from the staff-only area of the Yanggakdo International hotel aimed at harming the work ethic and motivation of the Korean people. Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures Show all 10 1 /10 Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures 'Ordinary life' in North Korea A man cuts the hair of a young boy at an apartment building in Pyongyang. High rise apartments are a common form of accommodation for people living in the capital city AP Photo/Dita Alangkara Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures 'Ordinary life' in North Korea North Koreans pause to give way for passing vehicles as they cross a road in Pyongyang. AP Photo/Dita Alangkara Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures 'Ordinary life' in North Korea North Koreans wait for public transportation at a bus stop in Pyongyang AP Photo/Dita Alangkara Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures 'Ordinary life' in North Korea A woman and her daughter walk past a North Korean flag hung on a utility pole as part of celebrations of the Liberation Day in Pyongyang AP Photo/Dita Alangkara Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures 'Ordinary life' in North Korea People attending the conference for national reunification as they observe their 70th anniversary of Korea's liberation, marking the end of World War II, in Panmunjom AFP PHOTO / KCNA via KNS REPUBLIC OF KOREA OUT Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures 'Ordinary life' in North Korea A man looks at items at a stamp shop in Pyongyang AP Photo/Dita Alangkara Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures 'Ordinary life' in North Korea North Koreans participate in a closing event for its celebration of the 70th anniversary of Korea's independence from Japan's 1910-45 colonial rule, at the truce village inside the demilitarized zone (DMZ) that divides the two Koreas in Panmunjom, North Korea. The country changed it's timezone on the occasion. North Korea introduced 'Pyongyang time' and pushed back its clocks by half an hour on 15 August, the same as before the Japanese occupation when the standard time used by the Korean empire was eight and a half hours ahead of GMT, instead of nine hours, which is Tokyo time EPA/KCNA SOUTH KOREA OUT Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures 'Ordinary life' in North Korea People attending the conference for national reunification as they observe their 70th anniversary of Korea's liberation, marking the end of World War II, in Panmunjom AFP PHOTO / KCNA via KNS Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures 'Ordinary life' in North Korea Youths and students attending an evening gala at the Kim Il-Sung Square in Pyongyang to celebrate the 70th anniversary of Korea's liberation, marking the end of World War II AFP PHOTO / KCNA via KNS REPUBLIC OF KOREA OUT Everyday life in North Korea - in pictures 'Ordinary life' in North Korea North Korean leader Kim Jong Un visits the Kumsusan Palace of the Sun to mark the occasion of the 70th anniversary of Korea's liberation REUTERS/KCNAATTENTION EDITORS He added: I have been very impressed by the Korean governments humanitarian treatment of severe criminals like myself and of their very fair and square legal procedures in the DPR Korea. I understand the severity of my crime and I have no idea what sort of penalty I may face but I am begging to the Korean people and government for my forgiveness. Mr Warmbier's family have not heard from him since his arrest, according to a statement provided to the Cavalier Daily, the University of Virginia's student-run newspaper. "He seems to be in good health, although we won't know for sure about his condition until we have a chance to speak with him," the statement said. The student was on a five-day New Year's tour of North Korea with a group of 20 and was delayed at immigration before being taken away by two airport officials, according to a tour operator that had sponsored the trip. A few thousand Westerners are thought to visit North Korea each year, and Pyongyang is pushing for more tourists as a way to help its dismal economy. The U.S. State Department has warned against travel to the North, however, and visitors, especially those from America, who break the country's sometimes murky rules risk detention, arrest and possible jail sentences although most have eventually been released. Additional reporting by Reuters For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Christopher Rivas and his colleagues were about to turn their fishing boat for home when they noticed the half-submerged hull of the yacht Sajo sitting in the water about 60 miles off the coast of the southern Philippines. It had been more than a year since anyone had heard from the 40ft Sajos 59-year-old German skipper, Manfred Fritz Bajorat. It did not take long for Mr Rivas to discover why as he scrambled on board to help. Warning: graphic image below The Filipino fisherman found Mr Bajorats body sat next to the vessels bank of radio transmitters. Such had been the dry, salty conditions since the unexplained death of the German sailor that his corpse had been mummified in its final position, slumped over a table used for charts with the transmitter handset just inches away. The remains of Manfred Bajorat. He was last heard from a year ago (EPA) Police in the port of Barobo, about 700 miles south of Manila, where Mr Rivas towed the Sajo, said that a post-mortem examination had found no evidence of foul play and it was believed Mr Bajorat had died of natural causes, possibly from a heart attack. His identity had been established using documentation, including dozens of photographs, found on board the yacht, which it is believed had been drifting for months in the Pacific Ocean before Mr Rivas and his fellow fishermen came upon the wreck. World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty The discovery signifies a sobering end to what had started as a life of adventure for Mr Bajorat and his wife, Claudia. The couple had begun sailing around the globe about 20 years ago, but their marriage did not survive their travels and they broke up in 2008. Two years later, Claudia died from cancer while on the French island of Martinique. Mr Bajorat posted a tribute online to his former wife, saying: Thirty years weve been together on the same path. Then the power of the demons was stronger than the will to live. The mariner, from the Ruhr region of Germany, continued his voyages alone, sailing between Europe and the Pacific. Mummified body found on yacht Reports in German media said that Mr Bajorat had taken to the waves to avoid central Europes bitter winters, which he disliked. The yachts skipper, Manfred Fritz Bajorat (EPA) Photographs found on board the 130,000 yacht showed carefree family moments a sea-water damaged picture of picnic with friends or relatives, a Polaroid of a visit to the Arc de Triomphe in Paris and an image of children playing in the snow. Two other documents chronicled a journey taken by the Bajorats on board a large container ship with certificates recording their crossing of the Equator, naming Manfred as Tiger Shark and Claudia as Angel Fish. Mr Bajorat, who is believed to leave behind a daughter who works as the captain of a freight vessel, is not thought to have been in contact with anyone since he sent a birthday message to a friend on Facebook a year ago. Police are investigating whether Mr Bajorat may have been trying to send a mayday message at the time that he died. A police spokesman said: We have no evidence of a second person aboard and no weapon was found on the yacht. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A man has stabbed 10 children outside the gates of a school in China before killing himself. Six boys and four girls were attacked outside Yang Fan Primary School in the city of Haikou, on the southern island province of Hainan, state media reported. They were taken to hospital. None of them suffered life threatening injuries, but two were seriously injured, media reports said. Police described it as a "vicious" attack "brought on by extreme actions". Violent crime is rare in China compared with many other countries, but there have been a series of knife and axe attacks in recent years, many targeting children. In April 2010, a man stabbed 29 school children and three teachers at a kindergarten in Taixing city, in eastern Jiangsu province. The attacks were mostly carried out by disaffected perpetrators with mental illnesses. They sparked outrage among Chinese parents, who demanded enhanced security at schools, and prompted nationwide discussion of what caused them. Although Chinese leaders made public acknowledgements that underlying social tensions contributed to the crimes, several were censored by state media for fear of copycat attacks, while online discussions were also blocked. Additional reporting by agencies For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Three former executives of the operators of the ruined Daiichi Fukushima power plant, have been charged with mishandling the 2011 nuclear crisis. The indictment means that a court will, for the first time, investigate the failure of the Tokyo Electric Power Co (Tepco) to prevent the worlds worst nuclear accident since the Chernobyl disaster of 1986. Tsunehisa Katsumata, the companys former chairman, and two former vice-presidents, Sakae Muto and Ichiro Takekuro, will face charges of professional negligence resulting in death and injury. The aftermath of the 2011 triple meltdown showered much of eastern Japan with radioactive fallout and led to the evacuation of about 160,000 people. Much of the area around the power plant remains uninhabitable and tens of thousands of the evacuees have yet to return home. Hundreds of mainly elderly people have died in temporary housing. The indictment cites 44 frail and elderly patients who died when a hospital near the plant was evacuated, and says the company was responsible for their deaths. Japan turns on nuclear power four years after Fukushima Tepco has continued to argue that the 13m (43ft) tsunami that overwhelmed the plants cooling system following a huge earthquake on 11 March 2011 was beyond all normal expectations. Critics have pointed out that the area had a history of powerful quakes and tsunamis. An internal Tepco report in 2008 predicted a maximum tsunami of 15.7m. Inside the twisted remains of Fukushima nuclear plant Show all 2 1 /2 Inside the twisted remains of Fukushima nuclear plant Inside the twisted remains of Fukushima nuclear plant 6-Fukushima-1-EPA.jpg EPA Inside the twisted remains of Fukushima nuclear plant 6-Fukushima-2-EPA.jpg EPA Greenpeace Japan called the charges a major step forward for the people of Japan. The court proceedings should reveal the true extent of Tepcos and the Japanese regulatory systems enormous failure to protect the people of Japan, said Hisayo Takada, Greenpeaces deputy programme director in Japan. The three executives are expected to plead not guilty. A spokeswoman for the company said it would make no comment on the case. Revitalisation of Fukushima is our starting point, she said. The indictment by a group of citizen activists is the first successful attempt to take Tepco to court; at least two previous bids have been rejected by public prosecutors. Tsunehisa Katsumata, the former chairman of Tepco, is expected to deny the charges (AFP) I want Tepco executives to tell the truth, said Ruiko Muto, one of the lead plaintiffs. Experts had warned against earthquakes and tsunamis on this scale, and Tepco employees had discussed their possibility and consequences among themselves, she said after launching the first suit in 2012. Japan is struggling to overcome the aftermath of the Fukushima disaster, which has battered public faith in nuclear safety and triggered a pitched battle over the future of the countrys 50-plus commercial reactors. Election-law scholar Hasen cites similarities between N.C. case and Virginia appeal that justices will hear in March RALEIGH A Virginia congressional redistricting case expected to be argued March 21 before the U.S. Supreme Court could suggest the eventual outcome of North Carolina's similar congressional redistricting dispute, a nationally recognized election law expert says.Richard Hasen, a professor at the University of California-Irvine School of Law, has been following North Carolina's Harris v. McCrory case in which a three-judge federal panel invalidated the state's 1st and 12th congressional districts as unconstitutional racial gerrymanders.The state is appealing that ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court."There will be briefings and arguments later on," probably in the next court term that opens in October, Hasen said, "and before that there will be a decision likely in the Virginia case raising similar issues. So we should have a better sense ... by June about where these kinds of claims stand."The federal district court panel ruled that mapmakers packed the 1st and 12th districts with minority voters, diminishing the impact of black voters in other districts with the intention of creating safe GOP districts. That violates the Equal Protection Clause of the 14th Amendment, they ruled.The North Carolina and Virginia cases are similar "in the sense that they both involve states where minority plaintiffs and Democrats have accused Republican legislatures of taking race too much into account, and pretending not to do so in order to comply with the Voting Rights Act," Hasen said.Opponents contend it is "basically a Republican gerrymander under the guise of complying with the Voting Rights Act," he said.Hasen said.The Supreme Court ruled 5-4 in the Alabama case that, among other things, packing a district with blacks makes it less likely they can elect a preferred candidate of choice in districts from which minorities were removed.The ruling raised major difficulties for distinguishing between race and party when defending new electoral lines because blacks' political affiliation is near universally Democratic.In North Carolina, Republicans filed an emergency appeal to the Supreme Court in early February to stay the lower court decision, saying it was too close to the March 15 primary, and would create confusion and chaos. The Supreme Court refused to halt the order.and the case will proceed in Supreme Court, Hasen said.Without the stay, the General Assembly was compelled to redraw congressional maps to comply with the lower court. In a two-day special session of the legislature Feb. 18 and 19, lawmakers designed new maps without taking race into account, saying they wished to avoid the racial elements the three-judge panel cited. The congressional primary was moved back to June 7, while other primary contests will be held as scheduled March 15.The Harris plaintiffs must file their objections to the new maps no later than Monday. The state would have until March 7 to file a response to the objections, after which the plaintiffs would file an additional response, and, presumably, a hearing would be set.Democrats and members of the state's Legislative Black Caucus bitterly opposed eliminating race as a factor in the new maps. They said the majority Republicans were tempting their luck with the federal court by going that route.Hasen said.Republicans' removal of race as a factor in redrawing the linesbut that likely will be argued as a violation of the Voting Rights Act, Hasen said.Hasen said.It's unclear if the Harris case will reach the U.S. Supreme Court. The state has until April to petition the Supreme Court to accept its appeal of the lower court ruling. The court might rule before it adjourns in June if it will accept the appeal, and set the case for full briefing and arguments in October, when the court returns.said David Rohde, a Duke University political science professor specializing in American politics.He declined to say whether he believed the three-judge panel reached the proper legal conclusion in finding the 1st and 12th districts were constitutionally forbidden racial gerrymanders.But the end result iswho were drawn out of their districts in the new maps,Rohde said. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A senior Vatican official has admitted the Catholic Church has made enormous mistakes in covering up the widespread sexual abuse of children by priests. Australian Cardinal George Pell - who is a key financial adviser to Pope Francis - was giving evidence from Rome via videolink to the Royal Commission in Sydney over questions as to whether he knew about paedophile priests operating in the city of Ballarat in the south of the country in the 1970s and 1980s. Cardinal Pell - who has not been accused of sexual abuse - was a priest in the city during the early 1970s and lived in a seminary with Gerald Ridsdale, who committed at least 130 offences against young boys between the 1960s and 1990s. He said he had heard an Australian Catholic teacher who serially abused his pupils may have been involved in paedophilia activity but said he did not know how widespread the abuse was. Two dozen Australian abuse survivors and their companions traveled across the globe to witness Cardinal Pell give evidence to the inquiry in a Rome hotel's conference room. Several protesters held placards outside the inquiry's headquarters calling for Pope Francis to sack Cardinal Pell over the allegations that he turned a blind eye to his fellow priests' crimes. The Royal Commission into Institutional Response to Child Sex Abuse is currently holding its second round of interviews in its inquiry into child sex abuse in Ballarat. Cardinal Pell said: I'm not here to defend the indefensible. Protesters outside the Royal Commission headquarters in Sydney demand Pope Francis fire Cardinal Pell over the alleged cover-up of abuse in Ballarat (EPA) The Church has made enormous mistakes and is working to remedy those but the Church in many places, certainly in Australia, has mucked things up, has let people down. The priest criticised former Bishop of Ballarat, Ronald Mulkearns, for his conduct in the Ridsdale case. Bishop Mulkearns has been accused of moving Ridsdale between parishes for decades every time allegations against him surfaced. World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty Cardinal Pell - who was an adviser to Bishop Mulkearns at the time - has denied knowing anything about it and said the bishops's handling of the situation was a catastrophe for the Church. In a statement on Sunday, Pell repeated his support for the commission's work, vowed to meet individually with victims who had traveled to Rome and said he hoped the coming days "will eventually lead to healing for everyone." The cardinal will resume giving evidence to the inquiry on Monday. Protesters outside the Royal Commission in Sydney. Cardinal Pell has been accused of ignoring claims of widespread sex abuse in Ballarat during the second half of the 20th century (EPA) Anthony Foster, whose eldest daughter was repeatedly raped by priest Kevin O'Donnell and later killed herself, said it was "astounding and empowering for victims" that the commission was now sitting in judgment of Cardinal Pell on a global stage. "I feel as though we haven't just brought it to Rome. We've brought it to the world," he said. Cardinal Pell's evidence, is the closest he has ever come to publicly stating that he had even tangential awareness of the scandal playing out in Ballarat. Recommended Read more Child sex abuse within Roman Catholic Church linked to celibacy The Catholic Church has been reluctant to admit culpability in the widespread abuse by priests in its orders. The movie Spotlight, which won the Oscar for Best Picture on Sunday, focuses on the investigation by journalists at the Boston Globe in 2002 which exposed a similar cover up by local church authorities. According to American journalist John L Allen Jr, Cardinal Pell - despite his external reputation as part of the establishment responsible for the cover- up - is regarded as public enemy number one among the Vatican old guard because he is seen as the leader of the reform camp that is trying to drag [it], kicking and screaming at times, into the 21st century. He said: When you go to the Vatican, you have basically stepped through the looking glass. There is an old guard in the Vatican deeply wedded to pre-modern ways of doing business that, in most respects, would strike reasonable people as corrupt and dysfunctional. Additional reporting by AP For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} French riot police and demolition workers have moved into the jungle migrant camp near Calais and begun to flatten unoccupied shelters. The move is the first stage of the demolition of the southern part of the camp, approved by a French court last Thursday. A British woman activist was arrested for trying to impede the work, French police said. Bulldozers and water-cannon also moved into the area but the first demolitions were carried out by hand, with minimal opposition. The Government plans to dismantle most of the camp by the end of March (AP) French authorities have said that no one will be removed from their shelters by force. They say that occupants of the southern section of the sprawling camp totalling 3,450 people according to charities and pressure groups and 1,000 according to police - will be asked to move elsewhere. Recommended Read more French court approves demolition of part of Calais Jungle migrant camp Some will be offered places in the official shelters formed by converted shipping containers in the northern part of the camp. Others will be offered transport to homes in other parts of France where they will be encouraged to start the procedures for seeking French asylum. The Prefect senior national goverbment official for the Pas de Calais area, Fabienne Buccio, said that the 100 riot police were present because British No Bordersactivists had tried to disrupt preparatory work over the weekend. We are carrying out our orders so that, the destruction work can continue calmly and that the migrants are not under pressure from the No Borders activists, Ms Buccio said. Judge upholds eviction of refugees from Calais camp She accused the activists of intimidating the migrants to stop them mounting buses to other French destinations. She also said that they had screamed insults at French officials sent to talk to the migrants and had sprayed slogans on their jackets. The French government plans to dismantle most of the jungle by the end of March. Only the official camp, with space for 1,500 migrants, will be allowed to remain. Refugee crisis - in pictures Show all 27 1 /27 Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugee crisis - in pictures A child looks through the fence at the Moria detention camp for migrants and refugees at the island of Lesbos on May 24, 2016. AFP/Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Ahmad Zarour, 32, from Syria, reacts after his rescue by MOAS (Migrant Offshore Aid Station) while attempting to reach the Greek island of Agathonisi, Dodecanese, southeastern Agean Sea Refugee crisis - in pictures Syrian migrants holding life vests gather onto a pebble beach in the Yesil liman district of Canakkale, northwestern Turkey, after being stopped by Turkish police in their attempt to reach the Greek island of Lesbos on 29 January 2016. Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees flash the 'V for victory' sign during a demonstration as they block the Greek-Macedonian border Refugee crisis - in pictures Migrants have been braving sub zero temperatures as they cross the border from Macedonia into Serbia. Refugee crisis - in pictures A sinking boat is seen behind a Turkish gendarme off the coast of Canakkale's Bademli district on January 30, 2016. At least 33 migrants drowned on January 30 when their boat sank in the Aegean Sea while trying to cross from Turkey to Greece. Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A general view of a shelter for migrants inside a hangar of the former Tempelhof airport in Berlin, Germany Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees protest behind a fence against restrictions limiting passage at the Greek-Macedonian border, near Gevgelija. Since last week, Macedonia has restricted passage to northern Europe to only Syrians, Iraqis and Afghans who are considered war refugees. All other nationalities are deemed economic migrants and told to turn back. Macedonia has finished building a fence on its frontier with Greece becoming the latest country in Europe to build a border barrier aimed at checking the flow of refugees Refugee crisis - in pictures A father and his child wait after being caught by Turkish gendarme on 27 January 2016 at Canakkale's Kucukkuyu district Refugee crisis - in pictures Migrants make hand signals as they arrive into the southern Spanish port of Malaga on 27 January, 2016 after an inflatable boat carrying 55 Africans, seven of them women and six chidren, was rescued by the Spanish coast guard off the Spanish coast. Refugee crisis - in pictures A refugee holds two children as dozens arrive on an overcrowded boat on the Greek island of Lesbos Refugee crisis - in pictures A child, covered by emergency blankets, reacts as she arrives, with other refugees and migrants, on the Greek island of Lesbos, At least five migrants including three children, died after four boats sank between Turkey and Greece, as rescue workers searched the sea for dozens more, the Greek coastguard said Refugee crisis - in pictures Migrants wait under outside the Moria registration camp on the Lesbos. Over 400,000 people have landed on Greek islands from neighbouring Turkey since the beginning of the year Refugee crisis - in pictures The bodies of Christian refugees are buried separately from Muslim refugees at the Agios Panteleimonas cemetery in Mytilene, Lesbos Refugee crisis - in pictures Macedonian police officers control a crowd of refugees as they prepare to enter a camp after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A refugee tries to force the entry to a camp as Macedonian police officers control a crowd after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees are seen aboard a Turkish fishing boat as they arrive on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing a part of the Aegean Sea from the Turkish coast to Lesbos Reuters Refugee crisis - in pictures An elderly woman sings a lullaby to baby on a beach after arriving with other refugees on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A man collapses as refugees make land from an overloaded rubber dinghy after crossing the Aegean see from Turkey, at the island of Lesbos EPA Refugee crisis - in pictures A girl reacts as refugees arrive by boat on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees make a show of hands as they queue after crossing the Greek border into Macedonia near Gevgelija Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures People help a wheelchair user board a train with others, heading towards Serbia, at the transit camp for refugees near the southern Macedonian town of Gevgelija AP Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees board a train, after crossing the Greek-Macedonian border, near Gevgelija. Macedonia is a key transit country in the Balkans migration route into the EU, with thousands of asylum seekers - many of them from Syria, Afghanistan, Iraq and Somalia - entering the country every day Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures An aerial picture shows the "New Jungle" refugee camp where some 3,500 people live while they attempt to enter Britain, near the port of Calais, northern France Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures A Syrian girl reacts as she helped by a volunteer upon her arrival from Turkey on the Greek island of Lesbos, after having crossed the Aegean Sea EPA Refugee crisis - in pictures Refugees arrive by boat on the Greek island of Lesbos after crossing the Aegean sea from Turkey Getty Images Refugee crisis - in pictures Beds ready for use for migrants and refugees are prepared at a processing center on January 27, 2016 in Passau, Germany. The flow of migrants arriving in Passau has dropped to between 500 and 1,000 per day, down significantly from last November, when in the same region up to 6,000 migrants were arriving daily. A consortium of eight charities and pressure groups challenged the decision in a French court last week. After visiting the camp, the judges decided that the clearance of makeshift shelters in the southern section of the camp nearest to the slip road to Calais port could go ahead. The judges ordered, however, that social buildings such as makeshift restaurants, schools, medical centres and places of worship must be left intact. The pressure groups have appealed against the ruling to Frances highest court. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Refugees have reportedly broken through a fence on the Macedonian and Greek border using a home-made battering ram. BBC footage shows refugees ripping away barbed wire and pushing against the fence to get through. Protesters clashed with authorities as they chanted Open the border! and threw stones at Macedonian police as a few hundred people managed to break through a gate at the border. Recommended Read more Macedonia refuses to open border to asylum seekers Police fired tear gas and stun grenades at the protesters, though no arrests or injuries have been reported. It is not known how many people crossed the border during the incident. The gate has been used to let trains through at the border crossing and around 500 people forced their way past Greek police to reach it, authorities said. Thousands of refugees have become stuck at Greeces border with Macedonia as they wait for the Balkan nations authorities to allow them through and to continue on their route. Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Show all 15 1 /15 Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Stranded refugees try to bring down part of the border fence during a protest at the Greek-Macedonian border, near the Greek village of Idomeni Reuters Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Stranded refugees try to break a Greek police cordon in order to approach the border fence at the Greek-Macedonian border, near the Greek village of Idomeni Reuters Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Stranded refugees flee tear gas fire by the Macedonian police, after trying to bring down part of the border fence during a protest at the Greek-Macedonian border, near the Greek village of Idomeni Reuters Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Stranded refugees try to break a Greek police cordon in order to approach the border fence at the Greek-Macedonian border, near the Greek village of Idomeni Reuters Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Stranded refugees in the northern Greek village of Idomeni approach the Greek-Macedonian border as they try to enter Macedonia AP Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Macedonian riot police officers stand next to part of the border fence brought down by protesting stranded refugees and migrants during a protest at the Greek-Macedonian border, near the Greek village of Idomeni Reuters Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Stranded refugees try to bring down part of the border fence during a protest at the Greek-Macedonian border, near the Greek village of Idomeni Reuters Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Stranded refugees break an iron fence and throw stones from the Greek side of the border as Macedonian policemen push them back, near the southern Macedonian town of Gevgelija AP Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February A girl cries as she flees clashes during a protest at the Greek-Macedonian border, near the Greek village of Idomeni Reuters Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Refugees try to broke an iron fence from the Greek side of the border as Macedonian police stand guard, near the northern Greek village of Idomeni AP Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Stranded refugees and migrants in the northern Greek village of Idomeni approach the Greek-Macedonian border as they try to enter Macedonia AP Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February A man helps children to run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of refugees who tried to push their way into Macedonia AP Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February A woman carries a child on the Greek side of the border as they run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas at a group of refugees who tried to push their way into Macedonia AP Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February Refugees run away after Macedonian police fired tear gas AP Refugees break through Macedonia border fence in February A woman falls as refugees with their children run away after Macedonian police Getty Images Overflowing from a packed refugee camp nearby, around 6,500 people are understood to be at or near the Idomeni border crossing, while another 500 people have been moved to a newly created camp on a concrete landing strip 13 miles away, according to police. Many have been there for up to eight days with minimal food and shelter as they wait to cross the border in to Macedonia, which has said it will only let in as many refugees as neighbouring Serbia will accept. The crossing has been closed since 4am on Monday, when a total of 300 Syrian and Iraqi refugees were allowed over the border after it opened at 11pm on Sunday night. Authorities said this system has led to a huge bottleneck being created in Greece where more than 22,000 refugees have become stuck. Additional reporting by AP For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} A young woman who was found to share her apartment with more than 100 cats is on trial for animal abuse and in line for a heavy fine in France. After an eviction notice was served at her apartment in Paris, officials found 113 felines in the same space the woman lived in with her partner, according to Ouest France. Volunteers who cleared up the rooom even found several cats crushed under bookshelves, while about half of them reportedly died after they were captured by a French animal rescue charity. The president of the Vosges Animal Protection (SVPA) said the apartment was "in a deplorable state." But the cat owner has defended herself by saying that she spent 750 a month on her pets' maintenance - and would change 20 trays of litter at least three times a day. She also argued that the state of the apartment had been much better before she was threatened with eviction, after which she had to leave the house for at least five days. The 50 or so animals which died on capture did so because none were vaccinated and became ill when they came into contact with other cats - leading to further claims of neglect and abuse against them. It took five days for volunteer charity workers to catch all the animals, none of which were microchipped or tagged. The prosecution asked for 109 fines against the woman at 30 each, which the court will decide upon on 17 March. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The stunning victory of the reformists in the Iranian elections has been the source of celebrations in the capital, Tehran, and much of the rest of the country. There is hope of a freer and more prosperous future and excitement that Iran will open itself again to the outside world. The mood in Qom, however, is very different. Here, in Irans Shia heartland, the results are seen not as a harbinger of better days, but a grim sign that the very legacy of Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini is being betrayed. While one reformist paper heralded the results of the election a turning point in the history of the country, fundamentalists in this city were discussing how they could counter moves which, in their eyes, would endanger the Islamic Republic. Shrouded by religious and moral certainty, the hardliners, who had vehemently opposed President Hassan Rouhanis nuclear deal with world powers, simply had not seen the defeat coming. Recommended Read more Reformists triumph in Tehran to pave way for pivotal changes in Iran The sermon by Qoms leader of Friday prayers, Hujjat al-Islam Sayyed Mohammad Saidi, on the day of the elections last week showed no understanding that there was a desire for change. It focused on warning those who formed the new Majlis, Irans parliament, to guard against the machinations of enemies, the greedy US and the wily fox Britain and ensure that they were not seduced by false modern thinking inimical to Islam. Iranian journalists follow the preliminary results in Tehran (EPA) The large congregation at the Holy Shrine of Lady Fatimah al-Masumah were fervent in their approval of the address, taking a vastly different view from that held by the majority 80 miles to the north in Tehran. Hassan Mohammed Alibehdin, a 23-year-old clerical worker, was adamant. What you are hearing in Tehran are the loudmouths showing off to foreign journalists, they dont represent anyone. People in real Iran are the ones here, we respect and follow the path laid down by Ayatollah Khomeini and we must protect our values. As official results showed the reformists and moderates had taken the most seats in parliament, Mr Alibehdin was left perplexed and suspicious by the turn of events. The results are very strange, the numbers are too much for the reformists, a lot of us think there should be an investigation, he said. Reformists took 85 seats and the moderate conservatives, who support the nuclear deal, took 73. The hardliners took just 68 seats, a loss of 44. Will elections change the course of Iranian politics? Mr Alibehdins companions at the cafe near Bastani Square, where photographs of Leonardo DiCaprio, Al Pacino and Charlie Chaplin share the walls with those of the Ayatollahs Khomeini and Khamenei, were divided on what went wrong. One, Ghasem Housseni, 33, reminded the others of the rumours that foreigners wanted to get rid of the most senior hardline leaders, Mohammed Yazdi, Mohammed Taghi Mesbah-Yazdi and Ahmad Jannati. And we know, they all lost, he said. Mr Jannati had, in fact, scraped in, 15th in a list of 16, but there were murmurs of agreement at the general proposition around the table. There is also acknowledgment that the Principalists, as the hardliners call themselves, had failed to get their message across nationally. World news in pictures Show all 50 1 /50 World news in pictures World news in pictures 30 September 2020 Pope Francis prays with priests at the end of a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 29 September 2020 A girl's silhouette is seen from behind a fabric in a tent along a beach by Beit Lahia in the northern Gaza Strip AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 September 2020 A Chinese woman takes a photo of herself in front of a flower display dedicated to frontline health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic in Beijing, China. China will celebrate national day marking the founding of the People's Republic of China on October 1st Getty World news in pictures 27 September 2020 The Glass Mountain Inn burns as the Glass Fire moves through the area in St. Helena, California. The fast moving Glass fire has burned over 1,000 acres and has destroyed homes Getty World news in pictures 26 September 2020 A villager along with a child offers prayers next to a carcass of a wild elephant that officials say was electrocuted in Rani Reserve Forest on the outskirts of Guwahati, India AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 September 2020 The casket of late Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg is seen in Statuary Hall in the US Capitol to lie in state in Washington, DC AFP via Getty World news in pictures 24 September 2020 An anti-government protester holds up an image of a pro-democracy commemorative plaque at a rally outside Thailand's parliament in Bangkok, as activists gathered to demand a new constitution AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 September 2020 A whale stranded on a beach in Macquarie Harbour on the rugged west coast of Tasmania, as hundreds of pilot whales have died in a mass stranding in southern Australia despite efforts to save them, with rescuers racing to free a few dozen survivors The Mercury/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 22 September 2020 State civil employee candidates wearing face masks and shields take a test in Surabaya AFP via Getty World news in pictures 21 September 2020 A man sweeps at the Taj Mahal monument on the day of its reopening after being closed for more than six months due to the coronavirus pandemic AP World news in pictures 20 September 2020 A deer looks for food in a burnt area, caused by the Bobcat fire, in Pearblossom, California EPA World news in pictures 19 September 2020 Anti-government protesters hold their mobile phones aloft as they take part in a pro-democracy rally in Bangkok. Tens of thousands of pro-democracy protesters massed close to Thailand's royal palace, in a huge rally calling for PM Prayut Chan-O-Cha to step down and demanding reforms to the monarchy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 September 2020 Supporters of Iraqi Shi'ite cleric Moqtada al-Sadr maintain social distancing as they attend Friday prayers after the coronavirus disease restrictions were eased, in Kufa mosque, near Najaf, Iraq Reuters World news in pictures 17 September 2020 A protester climbs on The Triumph of the Republic at 'the Place de la Nation' as thousands of protesters take part in a demonstration during a national day strike called by labor unions asking for better salary and against jobs cut in Paris, France EPA World news in pictures 16 September 2020 A fire raging near the Lazzaretto of Ancona in Italy. The huge blaze broke out overnight at the port of Ancona. Firefighters have brought the fire under control but they expected to keep working through the day EPA World news in pictures 15 September 2020 Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny posing for a selfie with his family at Berlin's Charite hospital. In an Instagram post he said he could now breathe independently following his suspected poisoning last month Alexei Navalny/Instagram/AFP World news in pictures 14 September 2020 Japan's Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga, former Defense Minister Shigeru Ishiba and former Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida celebrate after Suga was elected as new head of the ruling party at the Liberal Democratic Party's leadership election in Tokyo Reuters World news in pictures 13 September 2020 A man stands behind a burning barricade during the fifth straight day of protests against police brutality in Bogota AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 September 2020 Police officers block and detain protesters during an opposition rally to protest the official presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus. Daily protests calling for the authoritarian president's resignation are now in their second month AP World news in pictures 11 September 2020 Members of 'Omnium Cultural' celebrate the 20th 'Festa per la llibertat' ('Fiesta for the freedom') to mark the Day of Catalonia in Barcelona. Omnion Cultural fights for the independence of Catalonia EPA World news in pictures 10 September 2020 The Moria refugee camp, two days after Greece's biggest migrant camp, was destroyed by fire. Thousands of asylum seekers on the island of Lesbos are now homeless AFP via Getty World news in pictures 9 September 2020 Pope Francis takes off his face mask as he arrives by car to hold a limited public audience at the San Damaso courtyard in The Vatican AFP via Getty World news in pictures 8 September 2020 A home is engulfed in flames during the "Creek Fire" in the Tollhouse area of California AFP via Getty World news in pictures 7 September 2020 A couple take photos along a sea wall of the waves brought by Typhoon Haishen in the eastern port city of Sokcho AFP via Getty World news in pictures 6 September 2020 Novak Djokovic and a tournament official tends to a linesperson who was struck with a ball by Djokovic during his match against Pablo Carreno Busta at the US Open USA Today Sports/Reuters World news in pictures 5 September 2020 Protesters confront police at the Shrine of Remembrance in Melbourne, Australia, during an anti-lockdown rally AFP via Getty World news in pictures 4 September 2020 A woman looks on from a rooftop as rescue workers dig through the rubble of a damaged building in Beirut. A search began for possible survivors after a scanner detected a pulse one month after the mega-blast at the adjacent port AFP via Getty World news in pictures 3 September 2020 A full moon next to the Virgen del Panecillo statue in Quito, Ecuador EPA World news in pictures 2 September 2020 A Palestinian woman reacts as Israeli forces demolish her animal shed near Hebron in the Israeli-occupied West Bank Reuters World news in pictures 1 September 2020 Students protest against presidential elections results in Minsk TUT.BY/AFP via Getty World news in pictures 31 August 2020 The pack rides during the 3rd stage of the Tour de France between Nice and Sisteron AFP via Getty World news in pictures 30 August 2020 Law enforcement officers block a street during a rally of opposition supporters protesting against presidential election results in Minsk, Belarus Reuters World news in pictures 29 August 2020 A woman holding a placard reading "Stop Censorship - Yes to the Freedom of Expression" shouts in a megaphone during a protest against the mandatory wearing of face masks in Paris. Masks, which were already compulsory on public transport, in enclosed public spaces, and outdoors in Paris in certain high-congestion areas around tourist sites, were made mandatory outdoors citywide on August 28 to fight the rising coronavirus infections AFP via Getty World news in pictures 28 August 2020 Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe bows to the national flag at the start of a press conference at the prime minister official residence in Tokyo. Abe announced he will resign over health problems, in a bombshell development that kicks off a leadership contest in the world's third-largest economy AFP via Getty World news in pictures 27 August 2020 Residents take cover behind a tree trunk from rubber bullets fired by South African Police Service (SAPS) in Eldorado Park, near Johannesburg, during a protest by community members after a 16-year old boy was reported dead AFP via Getty World news in pictures 26 August 2020 People scatter rose petals on a statue of Mother Teresa marking her 110th birth anniversary in Ahmedabad AFP via Getty World news in pictures 25 August 2020 An aerial view shows beach-goers standing on salt formations in the Dead Sea near Ein Bokeq, Israel Reuters World news in pictures 24 August 2020 Health workers use a fingertip pulse oximeter and check the body temperature of a fisherwoman inside the Dharavi slum during a door-to-door Covid-19 coronavirus screening in Mumbai AFP via Getty World news in pictures 23 August 2020 People carry an idol of the Hindu god Ganesh, the deity of prosperity, to immerse it off the coast of the Arabian sea during the Ganesh Chaturthi festival in Mumbai, India Reuters World news in pictures 22 August 2020 Firefighters watch as flames from the LNU Lightning Complex fires approach a home in Napa County, California AP World news in pictures 21 August 2020 Members of the Israeli security forces arrest a Palestinian demonstrator during a rally to protest against Israel's plan to annex parts of the occupied West Bank AFP via Getty World news in pictures 20 August 2020 A man pushes his bicycle through a deserted road after prohibitory orders were imposed by district officials for a week to contain the spread of the Covid-19 in Kathmandu AFP via Getty World news in pictures 19 August 2020 A car burns while parked at a residence in Vacaville, California. Dozens of fires are burning out of control throughout Northern California as fire resources are spread thin AFP via Getty World news in pictures 18 August 2020 Students use their mobile phones as flashlights at an anti-government rally at Mahidol University in Nakhon Pathom. Thailand has seen near-daily protests in recent weeks by students demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Prayut Chan-O-Cha AFP via Getty World news in pictures 17 August 2020 Members of the Kayapo tribe block the BR163 highway during a protest outside Novo Progresso in Para state, Brazil. Indigenous protesters blocked a major transamazonian highway to protest against the lack of governmental support during the COVID-19 novel coronavirus pandemic and illegal deforestation in and around their territories AFP via Getty World news in pictures 16 August 2020 Lightning forks over the San Francisco-Oakland Bay Bridge as a storm passes over Oakland AP World news in pictures 15 August 2020 Belarus opposition supporters gather near the Pushkinskaya metro station where Alexander Taraikovsky, a 34-year-old protester died on August 10, during their protest rally in central Minsk AFP via Getty World news in pictures 14 August 2020 AlphaTauri's driver Daniil Kvyat takes part in the second practice session at the Circuit de Catalunya in Montmelo near Barcelona ahead of the Spanish F1 Grand Prix AFP via Getty World news in pictures 13 August 2020 Soldiers of the Brazilian Armed Forces during a disinfection of the Christ The Redeemer statue at the Corcovado mountain prior to the opening of the touristic attraction in Rio AFP via Getty World news in pictures 12 August 2020 Young elephant bulls tussle playfully on World Elephant Day at the Amboseli National Park in Kenya AFP via Getty A team has begun to look at what went wrong, said Seyyed Ali Pour-Tabatabaei, an analyst and journalist. The Principalists have done better in other parts of the country compared to Tehran. They also know a reformist Majlis before, with President Mohammad Khatami, failed to deliver what the people wanted and Mahmoud Ahmedinejad came in. That can happen again. But they face problems in the Majlis in the immediate future, and know they lost Tehran. They cannot ignore that. The capital and the rest of Iran, with a population of 80 million, cant ignore Qom, the Shia Vatican, with its population of one million, either. Power resides here: the Guardian Council, including many of the Citys clergy, barred Hassan Khomeini, the grandson of the Ayatollah and a reformist, from standing at the elections. Ali Larijani is another in disfavour in Qom, his home constituency, among hardliners. The conservative parliamentary speaker had backed President Rouhani over the nuclear agreement and supported the reformists. Mr Larijanis stance cost him votes and he has slipped to second in the city list. But he wanted to stress the reformists and moderate conservatives have struck the right chord. People have taken a responsible decision and this must be respected. We must not turn the massive turnout into a matter of dispute. Some critics claimed that Mr Larijanis loss of votes was due to him neglecting his constituency. But, for many hardline clerics, the problem goes much deeper than that and it is something which is now central to Iranian politics. Hujjat al-Islam Hamid Maleki, the head of the powerful fundamentalist Qom Elmiyeh Madrasa, said: There are those like him and President Rouhani who believe politics can take place apart from Islam. Ayatollah Khomeini gave the correct interpretation of Islam, which stated Islam is in every part of life including politics. There cannot be a separation between the two, and there cannot be a compromise. This is what the people of Iran must consider very carefully when we decide what happens next. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} An activist living in Raqqa has described how Isis installed its brutal reign of terror when it established its capital in the Syrian city. Keeping a diary of his life under Isis, the activist - from a group called Al-Sharqiya 24 - told the BBC's Today programme how the group moved quickly to assert its dominance when it took over the city in January 2014. His story is read by an actor to protect his identity. "It's Friday, this is the day we used to gather in the streets and have long chats. But not anymore. Anyone gathering in public without permission now risks being accused of plotting against Daesh. "I'm crossing a crowd in a public square, I don't want to join them because they may have been told to watch a beheading - but thank god it's only a lashing this time. "The offender is one of theirs. His offence, I'm told, was carrying out a homosexual act." He describes how Isis moved quickly to assert its authority when it took over the city, with one militant telling him off for smoking and asking another man why his wife was not wearing the veil. In pictures: The rise of Isis Show all 74 1 /74 In pictures: The rise of Isis In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters Fighters of the Islamic State wave the group's flag from a damaged display of a government fighter jet following the battle for the Tabqa air base, in Raqqa, Syria AP In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters Fighters from Islamic State group sit on their tank during a parade in Raqqa, Syria AP In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters Fighters from the Islamic State group pray at the Tabqa air base after capturing it from the Syrian government in Raqqa, Syria AP In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters Fighters from extremist Islamic State group parade in Raqqa, Syria AP In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis kidnapping A video uploaded to social networks shows men in underwear being marched barefoot along a desert road before being allegedly executed by Isis Getty Images In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis kidnapping Haruna Yukawa after his capture by Isis In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis kidnapping Khalinda Sharaf Ajour, a Yazidi, says two of her daughters were captured by Isis militants Washington Post In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters Spokesperson for Isis Vice News via Youtube In pictures: The rise of Isis A pro-Isis leaflet A pro-Isis leaflet handed out on Oxford Street In London Ghaffar Hussain In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters Isis Jihadists burn their passports In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis controls Syrian Aid A man collecting aid administered by Isis in Syria In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis controls Syrian Aid A woman collecting aid administered by Isis in Syria In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis controls Syrian Aid Local civilians queue for aid administered by Isis. Since it declared a caliphate the group has increasingly been delivering services such as healthcare, and distributing aid and free fuel In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Iraqi security forces detain men suspected of being militants of the Isis group in Diyala province In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Mourners carry the coffin of a Shi'ite volunteer from the brigades of peace, who joined the Iraqi army and was killed during clashes with militants of the Isis group in Samarra, during his funeral in Najaf In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraqi refugees An Iraqi Shiite Turkmen family fleeing the violence in the Iraqi city of Tal Afar, west of Mosul, arrives at a refugee camp on the outskirts of Arbil, in Iraq's Kurdistan region In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi A photograph made from a video by the jihadist affiliated group Furqan Media via their twitter account allegedly showing Isis leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi delivering a sermon during Friday prayers at a mosque in Mosul. Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi declared an Islamist caliphate in the territory under the group's control in Iraq and Syria In pictures: The rise of Isis Islamic extremists destroying mosques in Iraq Shiite's Al-Qubba Husseiniya mosque explodes in Mosul In pictures: The rise of Isis Islamic extremists destroying mosques in Iraq Smoke and debris go up in the air as Shiite's Al-Qubba Husseiniya mosque explodes in Mosul. Images posted online show that Islamic extremists have destroyed at least 10 ancient shrines and Shiite mosques in territory - the city of Mosul and the town of Tal Afar - they have seized in northern Iraq in recent weeks In pictures: The rise of Isis Islamic extremists destroying mosques in Iraq A bulldozer destroys Sunni's Ahmed al-Rifai shrine and tomb in Mahlabiya district outside of Tal Afar In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Iraqi security forces celebrate after clashes with followers of Shiite cleric Mahmoud al-Sarkhi, in front of his home in the Shiite holy city of Karbala, 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Baghdad In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Iraqi security forces arrest a follower of Shiite cleric Mahmoud al-Sarkhi after clashes with his followers in the Shiite holy city of Karbala, 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Baghdad In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Iraqi security forces arrest a follower of Shiite cleric Mahmoud al-Sarkhi at his home after clashes with his followers in the Shiite holy city of Karbala, 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Baghdad In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Iraqi security forces arrest a follower of Shiite cleric Mahmoud al-Sarkhi after clashes with his followers in the Shiite holy city of Karbala, 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Baghdad In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis A vehicle burns in front of a home of a follower of Shiite cleric Mahmoud al-Sarkhi after clashes with his followers in the Shiite holy city of Karbala, 50 miles (80 kilometers) south of Baghdad In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraqi refugees An Iraqi woman holds her exhausted son as over 1000 Iraqis who have fled fighting in and around the city of Mosul and Tal Afar wait at a Kurdish checkpoint in the hopes of entering a temporary displacement camp in Khazair In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraqi refugees Displaced Iraqi women hold pots as they queue to receive food during the first day of the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, at an encampment for displaced Iraqis who fled from Mosul and other towns, in the Khazer area outside Irbil, north Iraq In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Syria A militant Islamist fighter waving a flag, cheers as he takes part in a military parade along the streets of Syria's northern Raqqa. The fighters held the parade to celebrate their declaration of an Islamic "caliphate" after the group captured territory in neighbouring Iraq In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Syria Isis fighters wave flags as they take part in a military parade along the streets of Syria's northern Raqqa province Reuters In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Syria Isis fighters travel in a vehicle as they take part in a military parade along the streets of Syria's northern Raqqa province In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Syria Fighters from the Isis group during a parade with a missile in Raqqa, Syria. Militants from an al-Qaida splinter group held a military parade in their stronghold in northeastern Syria, displaying U.S.-made Humvees, heavy machine guns, and missiles captured from the Iraqi army for the first time since taking over large parts of the Iraq-Syria border In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Syria Isis fighters during a parade in Raqqa, Syria In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Syria Fighters from the Isis group during a parade in Raqqa, Syria. Militants from the splinter group held a military parade in their stronghold in northeastern Syria, displaying U.S.-made Humvees, heavy machine guns, and missiles captured from the Iraqi army for the first time since taking over large parts of the Iraq-Syria border In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Syria Isis fighters hold a military parade in their stronghold in northeastern Syria In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Syria Isis fighters during a parade in Raqqa, Syria In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Syria A member loyal to the Isis waves an Isis flag in Raqqa In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Iraqi anti-government gunmen from Sunni tribes in the western Anbar province march during a protest in Ramadi, west of Baghdad. The United Nations warned that Iraq is at a "crossroads" and appealed for restraint, as a bloody four-day wave of violence killed 195 people. The violence is the deadliest so far linked to demonstrations that broke out in Sunni areas of the Shiite-majority country more than four months ago, raising fears of a return to all-out sectarian conflict In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Iraqi security forces hold up a flag of the Isis group they captured during an operation to regain control of Dallah Abbas north of Baqouba, the capital of Iraq's Diyala province, 35 miles (60 kilometers) northeast of Baghdad In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Iraq Isis fighters parade in the northern city of Mosul In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Volunteers, who have joined the Iraqi army to fight against the predominantly Sunni militants from the radical Isis group, demonstrate their skills during a graduation ceremony after completing their field training in Najaf In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Kurdish Peshmerga troops fire a cannon during clashes with militants of the Isis group in Jalawla, Diyala province In pictures: The rise of Isis Lieutenant General Qassem Atta speaks during a press conference Iraqi Prime Minister's security spokesman, Lieutenant General Qassem Atta speaks during a press conference about the latest military development in Iraq, in the capital Baghdad. Iraqi forces pressed a campaign to retake militant-held Tikrit, clashing with jihadist-led Sunni militants nearby and pounding positions inside the city with air strikes in their biggest counter-offensive so far In pictures: The rise of Isis A police station building destroyed by Isis fighters An exterior view of a police station building destroyed by gunmen in Mosul city, northern Iraq. Iraq's new parliament is expected to convene to start the process of setting up a new government, despite deepening political rifts and an ongoing Islamist-led insurgency. Iraqi President Jalal Talabani issued a decree inviting the new House of Representatives to meet and form a new government In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Iraq Smoke billows from an area controlled by the Isis between the Iraqi towns of Naojul and Tuz Khurmatu, both located north of the capital Baghdad, as Iraqi Kurdish Peshmerga forces take part in an operation to repel the Sunni militants In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraqi refugees An elderly Iraqi woman is helped into a temporary displacement camp for Iraqis caught-up in the fighting in and around the city of Mosul in Khazair In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraqi refugees An Iraqi Christian woman fleeing the violence in the village of Qaraqush, about 30 kms east of the northern province of Nineveh, cries upon her arrival at a community center in the Kurdish city of Arbil in Iraq's autonomous Kurdistan region In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraqi refugees An Iraqi woman, who fled with her family from the northern city of Mosul, prays with a copy of the Quran AP In pictures: The rise of Isis Isis fighters in Iraq The body of an Isis militant killed during clashes with Iraqi security forces on the outskirts of the city of Samarra Reuters In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Iraqi civilians inspect the damage at a market after an air strike by the Iraqi army in central Mosul EPA In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Members of the Al-Abbas brigades, who volunteered to protect the Shiite Muslim holy sites in Karbala against Sunni militants fighting the Baghdad government, parade in the streets of the city AP In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis Shia tribesmen gather in Baghdad to take up arms against Sunni insurgents marching on the capital. Thousands have volunteered to bolster defences AFP/Getty In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq crisis A van carrying volunteers joining Iraqi security forces against Jihadist militants. Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki announced the Iraqi government would arm and equip civilians who volunteered to fight AFP/Getty In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Fighters of the Isis group parade in a commandeered Iraqi security forces armored vehicle down a main road at the northern city of Mosul In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq An Islamist fighter, identified as Abu Muthanna al-Yemeni from Britain (R), speaks in this still image taken undated video shot at an unknown location and uploaded to a social media website. Five Islamist fighters identified as Australian and British nationals have called on Muslims to join the wars in Syria and Iraq, in the new video released by the Isis In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Al-Qaida inspired militants stand with captured Iraqi Army Humvee at a checkpoint belonging to Iraqi Army outside Beiji refinery some 250 kilometers (155 miles) north of Baghdad. The fighting at Beiji comes as Iraq has asked the U.S. for airstrikes targeting the militants from the Isis group. While U.S. President Barack Obama has not fully ruled out the possibility of launching airstrikes, such action is not imminent in part because intelligence agencies have been unable to identify clear targets on the ground, officials said In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Militants attacked Iraq's main oil refinein Baiji as they pressed an offensive that has seen them capture swathes of territory, a manager and a refinery employee said In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Militants from the Isis group parading with their weapons in the northern city of Baiji in the in Salaheddin province In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq A smoke rises after an attack by Isis militants on the country's largest oil refinery in Beiji, some 250 kilometers (155 miles) north of the capital, Baghdad. Iraqi security forces battled insurgents targeting the country's main oil refinery and said they regained partial control of a city near the Syrian border, trying to blunt an offensive by Sunni militants who diplomats fear may have also seized some 100 foreign workers In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Militants of the Isis group stand next to captured vehicles left behind by Iraqi security forces at an unknown location in the Salaheddin province. For militant groups, the fight over public perception can be even more important than actual combat, turning military losses into propaganda victories and battlefield successes into powerful tools to build support for the cause In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq An injured fighter (C) from the Isis group after a battle with Iraqi soldiers at an undisclosed location near the border between Syria and Iraq In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Fighters from the Isis aiming at advancing Iraqi troops at an undisclosed location near the border between Syria and Iraq In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Fighters from the Isis group taking position at an undisclosed location near the border between Syria and Iraq In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Fighters from the Isis group inspecting vehicles of the Iraqi army after they were seized at an undisclosed location near the border between Syria and Iraq In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq One Iraqi captive, a corporal, is reluctant to say the slogan, and has to be shouted at repeatedly before he obeys Sky News In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Iraqi captives held by the extremists Sky News In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Iraqi captives held by the extremists Sky News In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Militants of the Isis group force captured Iraqi security forces members to the transport In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Militants of the Isis group transporting dozens of captured Iraqi security forces members to an unknown location in the Salaheddin province ahead of executing them In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq A major offensive spearheaded by Isis but also involving supporters of executed dictator Saddam Hussein has overrun all of one province and chunks of three others In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Militants of the Isis group executing dozens of captured Iraqi security forces members at an unknown location in the Salaheddin province In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Isis militants taking position at a Iraqi border post on the Syrian-Iraqi border between the Iraqi Nineveh province and the Syrian town of Al-Hasakah In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Isis rebels show their flag after seizing an army post AFP/Getty Images In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Isis militants waving an Islamist flag after the seizure of an Iraqi army checkpoint in Salahuddin Getty Images In pictures: The rise of Isis Iraq Demonstrators chant slogans as they carry al-Qaida flags in front of the provincial government headquarters in Mosul, 225 miles (360 kilometers) northwest of Baghdad. In the week since it captured Iraq's second-largest city, Mosul, a Muslim extremist group has tried to win over residents and has stopped short of widely enforcing its strict brand of Islamic law, residents say. Churches remain unharmed and street cleaners are back at work Loud speakers in the streets announced public executions. "I heard loud speakers in the streets saying some people were about to be executed. "A group of blindfolded young men stood in handcuffs. In front of them a masked man began reading. "Hassan, fighting with regime forces, his punishment: beheading. Reza was a media activist, accused of speaking to foreign parties, his punishment: beheading. "A man with a sword carried out the punishment." Cursing as he left the scene of the executions, the activist was grabbed by the group's religious police and taken to their headquarters. There, he was sentenced to 40 lashes for cursing out loud. Last month, Isis militants reportedly forcibly removed televisions from civilian homes in an attempt to crackdown on "corrupt" foreign news. In addition to attempting to stop the flow of information into Raqqa, Isis has also surrounded it with road blocks and searches anyone arriving or leaving, killing and arresting those attempting to flee. For free real time breaking news alerts sent straight to your inbox sign up to our breaking news emails Sign up to our free breaking news emails Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Breaking News email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} The Syrian regime has accused Saudi Arabia of trying to undermine peace efforts as the fragile ceasefire in the war-torn region enters its third day. Bashar al-Assads government said the Saudi kingdoms proposal of plan B if the truce fails is an attempt to thwart the cessation of combat operations. The unstable peace has, so far, significantly reduced violence across the country enabling some aid to be delivered to desperate civilians in besieged towns. What Adel al-Jubeir [Saudi foreign minister] says.about a plan B regarding the current developments in Syria is merely a delusion in the mind of the Saudi regime, a Syrian foreign ministry official was quoted as saying in a statement on state media. "Jubeir's statements are ... an attempt to thwart the cessation of combat operations," it added. Recommended Read more Syria truce brings calm for some despite Russian strikes On the second day of the ceasefire brokered by negotiations between Moscow and Washington to halt fighting in the region Jubeir said that the Syrian regime and its ally Russia had violated the truce, and that there would be an alternative plan if it became apparent Damascus and its allies were not serious about the ceasefire. He did not deliberate on any of the details with a so-called plan B. An international task force was due to meet on Monday in a bid to shore up Syria's ceasefire, as the United Nations scrambled to deliver aid to thousands of besieged civilians. The task force, co-chaired by Moscow and Washington, will evaluate allegations of a range of breaches, a Western diplomat said. At the weekend, key regime backer Russia traded accusations with the main opposition grouping, the High Negotiations Committee, over truce violations. French Foreign Minister Jean-Marc Ayrault said that the allegations "must all of course be verified," but that his government "would be vigilant about [the truce's] concrete application." Syria fighting continues despite ceasefire UN chief Ban Ki-moon said there been some incidents but the ceasefire was generally holding. He told reporters in Geneva: "As of now I can tell you that by and large the cessation of hostilities is holding even though we have experienced some incidents. Staffan de Mistura, the United Nations mediator responsible for Syria, said he intends to reconvene peace talks between the Syrian government and opposition on March 7, provided the halt in fighting largely holds and allows for greater delivery of humanitarian relief. The truce is meant to open the way for aid to more than 480,000 Syrians living in areas currently besieged by government forces, rebels or jihadists. A convoy carrying sanitation supplies and blankets was due to head to the town of Moadamiyet al-Sham, surrounded by regime forces south of Damascus, on Monday, a UN source told AFP news agency. In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Show all 19 1 /19 In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Syrian boys cry following Russian air strikes on the rebel-held Fardous neighbourhood of the northern embattled Syrian city of Aleppo Getty In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Russian defense ministry spokesman Major General Igor Konashenkov speaks to the media in Moscow, Russia. Konashenkov strongly warned the United States against striking Syrian government forces and issued a thinly-veiled threat to use Russian air defense assets to protect them AP In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Syrians wait to receive treatment at a hospital following Russian air strikes on the rebel-held Fardous neighbourhood of the northern embattled Syrian city of Alepp Getty In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Russian Deputy Defense Minister Anatoly Antonov speaks at a briefing in the Defense Ministry in Moscow, Russia. Antonov said the Russian air strikes in Syria have killed about 35,000 militants, including about 2,700 residents of Russia AP In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Jameel Mustafa Habboush, receives oxygen from civil defence volunteers, known as the white helmets, as they rescue him from under the rubble of a building following Russian air strikes on the rebel-held Fardous neighbourhood of the northern embattled Syrian city of Aleppo Getty In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Civil defence members rest amidst rubble in a site hit by what activists said were airstrikes carried out by the Russian air force in the town of Douma, eastern Ghouta in Damascus, Syria Reuters In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria A girl carrying a baby inspects damage in a site hit by what activists said were airstrikes carried out by the Russian air force in the town of Douma, eastern Ghouta in Damascus, Syria Reuters In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Civilians and civil defence members look for survivors at a site damaged after Russian air strikes on the Syrian rebel-held city of Idlib, Syria Reuters In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Civilians and civil defence members carry an injured woman on a stretcher at a site damaged after Russian air strikes on the Syrian rebel-held city of Idlib, Syria Reuters In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Volunteers from Syria Civil Defence, also known as the White Helmets, help civilians after Russia carried out its first airstrikes in Syria In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria The aftermath of Russian airstrike in Talbiseh, Syria In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Smoke billows from buildings in Talbiseh, in Homs province, western Syria, after airstrikes by Russian warplanes AP In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Russian Air Forces carry out an air strike in the ISIS controlled Al-Raqqah Governorate. Russia's KAB-500s bombs completely destroy the Liwa al-Haqq command unit In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Caspian Flotilla of the Russian Navy firing Kalibr cruise missiles against remote Isis targets in Syria A TASS/ITAR-TASS Photo/Corbis In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Russia claimed it hit eight Isis targets, including a "terrorist HQ and co-ordination centre" that was completely destroyed In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria A video grab taken from the footage made available on the Russian Defence Ministry's official website, purporting to show an airstrike in Syria In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria A release from the Russian defence ministry purportedly showing targets in Syria being hit In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Russia launched air strikes in war-torn Syria, its first military engagement outside the former Soviet Union since the occupation of Afghanistan in 1979. Russian warplanes carried out strikes in three Syrian provinces along with regime aircraft as Putin seeks to steal US President Barack Obama's thunder by pushing a rival plan to defeat Isis militants in Syria In pictures: Russian air strikes in Syria Caspian Flotilla of the Russian Navy firing Kalibr cruise missiles against remote Isis targets in Syria, a thousand kilometres away. The targets include ammunition factories, ammunition and fuel depots, command centres, and training camps A TASS/ITAR-TASS Photo/Corbis Meanwhile, the deputy Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov has aired the view that Syria could become a federal state if the model works in the country. "If as a result of talks, consultations and discussions on Syria's future state order ... they come to an opinion that namely this [federal] model will work to serve the task of preserving Syria as a united, secular, independent and sovereign nation, then who will object to this?" Mr Ryabkov said. After five years of civil war that has killed 250,000 people and driven some 11 million from their homes, Syria's territory is already effectively split between various parties, including the government and its allies, Western-backed Kurds, opposition groups and Islamic State militants. Additional reporting by Reuters Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for weekly expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} As we scramble up the muddy bank of western Burmas Chindwin River, a group of farmers stops unloading bananas from ox carts on to an open wooden boat to watch our erratic progress, and a small welcoming committee gathers at the top. Word spreads quickly, and walking with our guide through the small settlement of Kae Daung soon resembles a scene from the Pied Piper, with more than 50 villagers following in our wake, more joining along the way. Our downstream journey from Homalin, close to the Indian border and 600 miles from the Chindwins confluence with the better-known Irrawaddy, has been hastened by the current. So the captain decides to make one of several unscheduled stops during our week-long journey to Monywa. It is only the second time he has stopped at this village, and in a refreshing reverse of the usual tourism model. We are the subject of much inquisitiveness. Men wearing the traditional skirt-style longyi grin as we pass, revealing teeth stained vivid red from chewing betel nuts. Women, faces adorned with the yellowish-white cosmetic thanaka, wave from stilted wooden houses, while children giggle and run away squealing as one of the members of our party pretends to chase them. Burma was closed off from the rest of the world for much of the duration of the military dictatorship that ruled from 1962 to 2011, and today remote areas are populated by people who have had little or no contact with foreigners; indeed, we dont meet any other tourists during our time on the Chindwin. Burma historian Paul Strachan pioneered river cruises in this captivating country and, with their low draft, Pandaws vessels can navigate the northernmost stretches of the Chindwin that are inaccessible to the few other expedition ships plying the waters. In 2015, the 20th anniversary of his cruise line, coincided with the 150th anniversary of the colonial Irrawaddy Flotilla Company that inspired Pandaws ships. Sadly, the only reminder we see of the once mighty fleet is a rusty boiler abandoned beside the river in Sitthaung, the final resting place of a number of IFC steamers scuppered there in 1942. Our vessel, the two-deck Kalay Pandaw, is handsomely decked out in teak and brass. It carries only 10 passengers and nine crew, so we soon get to know each other. The upper deck, a combined sun deck and al fresco dining area, has an enclosed bar that can be used for meals in the unlikely event of bad weather. The Homalin to Monywa cruise season runs from the summer to late autumn, with condensed itineraries through to February due to low water levels. Nevertheless, any journey is governed by Mother Nature. Going with the flow, quite literally, and being flexible encapsulates the whole essence of river cruising in Burma. One morning a dense, ethereal mist hangs low over the water and obscures the banks and surrounding hillsides, so we cannot cast off until it lifts. The following day we are stranded mid-river on one of the submerged sandbars that shift during the monsoon season. We guiltily eat lunch while two crew members spend a couple of hours in the waist-high water, helping to manoeuvre the vessel back into a deeper channel. The bedroom We sail only during the day, against a skyline of bell-shaped Buddhist stupas or pagodas that form the backbone of every village, watching timeless vistas of fishermen casting nets from tiny boats, women panning for gold in the shallows, and ox teams ploughing the fertile soil on the banks. With no railway or significant road infrastructure, the river is a working artery. Our path is criss-crossed by vessels laden with oil drums and ferries transporting people and supplies between villages, heralding their arrival and departure with an amplified blast of music. Occasionally, vast rafts of teak timber lashed together by bamboo float past. At night we are rewarded by clear, inky skies unimpeded by light pollution. From the kaleidoscope of stars our guide points out the Southern Cross, Capricornus, Scorpius and other constellations. Highlights include excursions to the Phowintaung hill caves, populated by monkeys and filled with ancient images of Buddha and wall murals; and the spectacular and colourful Thanbodi Temple outside Monywa, with its estimated one million Buddhas. Towering over the nearby countryside is the imposing 412ft giant standing Buddha, the largest in Burma, and the serene 330ft reclining counterpart, where tiny silhouettes of birds can be seen resting on its sweeping eyelashes. Another day we set off on the onboard bikes, negotiating furrowed tracks that are a legacy of the monsoon. Buddhas, reclinging and standing Back on board we are suitably refreshed with cold towels and the complimentary cocktail of the day. Dinner showcases delicately spiced Burmese dishes and ingredients bought by the two chefs at local markets. By the end of the week, I bypass the Western breakfast offerings for soup or stir-fried noodles flavoured with coriander, sesame seeds, chilli, garlic, bean paste and lemon. After the 83-mile transfer to Mandalay, the countrys second city and former capital, I watch the final sunset, this time mirrored in the Irrawaddy. Rudyard Kipling encapsulated Burma perfectly when he wrote: It is quite unlike any other place you know about. Getting there Jeannine Williamson travelled with Audley Travel (01993 838 450; audleytravel.com) which offers an 11-night Chindwin itinerary from 3,200pp departing August to November 2016, including a seven-night all-inclusive Pandaw cruise from Homalin to Monywa (or in reverse), two nights B&B at the Sule Shangri-La, Yangon, two nights B&B at the Ayarwaddy River View Hotel, Mandalay, half-day tours in both cities, international and internal flights. More information myanmartourism.org Sign up to Simon Calders free travel email for weekly expert advice and money-saving discounts Get Simon Calders Travel email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the Simon Calders Travel email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Thailand remains one of the safest countries in the world, with a surprisingly low crime rate - so says the Tourism Authority of, you guessed it, Thailand. The Foreign Office travel advice tells a different story. It warns of vicious, unprovoked attacks by individuals and gangs in Koh Samui, Koh Phangan and Koh Tao - three islands in the Gulf of Thailand that are popular with foreign tourists. British students Hannah Witheridge, 23, and David Miller, 24, were murdered on Koh Tao in 2014 after leaving a beachside bar. The investigation into their deaths has similarities with the current probe into the latest atrocity, in which two French women were raped and two male compatriates were badly beaten on Koh Kut, an island close to the Cambodian border. The suspects are foreign; two Burmese barmen were found guilty of murdering the British students, while in the French case, five Cambodian fishermen are under arrest. In both cases the suspects were taken to the scene of the crime, for a macabre and chaotic reconstruction of the attacks. The Thai police - described by Ms Witheridges family as bungling and corrupt - are under pressure to secure speedy convictions. But even if the real perpetrators of these awful acts are apprehended, there are many more villains out there. The Foreign Office says: Violent sexual assaults and robberies against both men and women are reported regularly in the Koh Samui archipelago and Krabi province. Its Australian counterpart warns: Food and drink spiking occurs in Thailand, including around popular backpacker destinations such as Khao San Road in Bangkok. While other holiday destinations, notably Egypt and Turkey, are seeing tourist numbers plummet in the wake of terrorist attacks, Thailand has seen little lasting effect from the bombing last August at the Erewan shrine in central Bangkok, which killed 20 people. But with the Foreign Office warning of a high threat of further terrorist attacks, the "land of smiles" looks increasingly risky. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Its a little early in the lad season for a Brits abroad story, but in true British style, six men from Southampton have stolen a march on the competition to become the first pissed-up idiots of 2016 to make news headlines. Their behaviour was, by anybodys standard, utterly ridiculous. In an attempt to kick-start their mates stag do, and like many before them, they got on the beers early. By the time they boarded their 40p flight to Bratislava they were reportedly already half-cut. But, in true lad style, that was just the start. Everyone knows that for lads, any mode of transport is a designated lash zone. Theres the banter bus, road beers, train tear-up and, as in this case, the party plane. Given their state mid-flight, the cabin crew decided to cut them off. Now, no lad likes having his lash removed. So the obvious next step was a protest. And for all true lads theres only one protest proven to work: a naked one. Truly, nothing says give me back my Carling like a windmilling penis. Okay, they were acting like a set of complete arseholes - egged on, Ive no doubt, by their innate goal to be the lad of all of lads on their epic lad quest. When the cabin crew couldnt restore order, and the pilot decided an emergency landing in Berlin was in order, its all these lads could do but to celebrate, and decide Berlin was probably good for a piss-up anyway. What they probably didnt expect was a civil suit being sought by the airline, and a possible 20,000 fine each. Not laughing now, eh? In these scenarios its all too easy for us to blame these men (because thats what they are) for being ill-disciplined, inconsiderate oiks. Fine them! we all cry, obstinately demanding that they are the lowest of the low and should be banned from flying for life. Instead of that, lets track their journey through the airport. They arrive, lets say at 7am ahead of their 9am flight. Having passed through customs theyre met with wall-to-wall booze, cigarettes and aftershave all the hallmarks of a true lad. In the duty-free hall is a bar, offering free samples of rums, vodka, whisky the list goes on. They could have headed towards the lounge having already had a fair few shots. But oh, look! The airport bar is open. No other bar in the land is allowed to open at this time, but at the airport for some reason thats OK. Heading to the plane you want more and, of course, the airlines oblige. No sooner has the fasten seat belt sign been switched off, the little box of joy comes tearing down the aisle. Inside? Litres of spirits at low, low prices along with beers and wines, all for immediate consumption. Even the aftershaves have alcohol in, if youre desperate. The very act of stepping on a plane has become synonymous with alcohol. As has so much else within our society. For my sins, I used to be a lad. My first two years of university were a veritable lashathon. We even played drink until you chunder; a game that certainly had no winners. Thing is, we played this game, and many like it, in licensed venues. They didnt care if we vomited the beer back up, as long as we were paying for it. In Blighty, lad culture has helped to turn almost every high street into a patchwork quilt of boozers. The pubs are closing, but the bars and supermarket alcohol aisles are doing just fine. Brits love a drink, and everyone wants a piece. The likes of Ryanair and their ludicrously cheap flights have helped us move our sessions across Europe, searching for a cheaper pint. Once you arrive, its fishbowls and happy hours akimbo. Were made to believe that the good folk of Bratislava et al want nothing more than groups of English lads pissing cash all over their bars. And maybe its true. As more of us can now afford to move our parties abroad, were doing it with ever-increasing blood alcohol levels. Thing is, you cant pull a plane over - and the number of alcohol-related disruptive incidents on flights doubled between 2013 and 2015. Its too easy to blame these lads, but they know what they do. Theyre just a set of pissed-up morons chasing their laddish dreams. Of course theyre responsible for their actions, but so are the airports, the airlines and the alcohol industry pouring booze down their necks at any given opportunity. Sure, Ryanair can fine these guys, but they shouldnt dare try and take the moral high ground. Cheap stag dos and booze-fuelled weekends away are big business for them - and marauding groups of lads are an inevitable byproduct. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Another great painting by Claudia Massie. Glencoe. Oil on linen on board, 20x30cm. Tim Shipman had several good stories in The Sunday Times about the state of the Dave versus Boris civil war (pay wall: the following were listed in his excellent Red Box email): Cameron ignored advice from Lynton Crosby, mastermind of the Tory election victory, to declare that his new deal with Brussels was inadequate and delay the referendum until 2017. Boris Johnson wrote a second newspaper article declaring his support for the "remain" campaign. This article was only written on the Friday night before he declared, long after some reports have claimed he made up his mind. Having read his own best effort to justify Cameron's position, he told allies: "The 'stay' stuff is not worth the paper it was written on. This is going to make me vomit. It's a crap argument." Boris first thought he would have to back Brexit, not at the now famous dinner with Michael Gove on Tuesday 16 February, but five days earlier when Oliver Letwin showed him the government's plans to enshrine parliamentary sovereignty in law. Boris told aides: "I don't think there's much there." Some people think that Johnson writing two drafts of his article shows how unprincipled he is. On the contrary, as someone who also thinks by writing, I think it shows commendable intellectual rigour. Michael Howard is a left-liberal Europhile, says Peter Hitchens: The exit campaign was last week cunningly taken over by Tories who dont want to leave the Superstate and will use a vote to leave (if it happens) as the basis for yet another round of negotiations with Brussels. Boris Johnson and Michael Howard are ancient liberal Europhiles, who have learned how to seduce the Tory Party with speeches that sound Right-wing but arent really. It is painful to see this cynical seduction technique at work, and watch the old ladies fall for it. Neither is what he seems. Lord Howard led a Left-liberal putsch against the genuine EU opponent Iain Duncan Smith in 2003. Mr Johnson is an act, not a politician. He is a keen Europhile. Well, it's a theory, isn't it? I wrote an apology to Nick Clegg in The Independent on Sunday yesterday (featuring my piranha theory of politics). The Liberal Democrats may have had more of an effect in counter-balancing the tendency of the Conservative party to wander off to the right than I thought at the time. The way the Labour Party and the US Republicans are defying the laws of politics by heading away from the electable centre makes me wonder if the centripetal force is as strong as it ought to be in a first-past-the-post voting system. Alastair Meeks at Political Betting comments on this emptying of the centre ground: "This reversal of political norms is both highly unusual and very unstable." Fraser Nelson writes in praise of Blair-Adonis-Gove revolution. The best state schools have pulled ahead of the best private schools in A-level results. The Top 10 in The New Review, the Independent on Sunday magazine, was Obsolete Techology Cliches. I missed Desert Island Discs (thanks, David Grossman) and crossed wires (Dan Kelly). David Freedman, meanwhile, offered a late addition to my Top 40 Lost Positives, compiled two years ago: scathed. And finally, thanks to Glenny Rodge for this: "The first rule of thumb club is approximate." Sign up here to receive a daily "Catch-Up Service" email (9am Sunday to Friday) with links to new posts by John Rentoul. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} I do not think the world of charity has responded well to the wrongdoing exposed in certain parts of it. One representative claimed on Radio 4 that charity-bashing stories in the media were damaging the sector, not as you might have thought the questionable activities of the charities themselves, such as Age UK, selling the elderly expensive energy contracts, or Oxfam, employing unscrupulous phone-bank companies to do their fundraising. If theres charity-bashing in the air, its partly because a lot of charities are asking to be bashed. The right response is to own up, and change tack. Age UK only grudgingly dropped its contract with E.on after The Sun expose, claiming that the figures were not as bad as they looked, and that the contract they marketed was an industry leader. That is irrelevant, frankly. What this looks like is a charity exploiting a captive audience its own captive audience and receiving kickbacks from an energy company for doing so (Age UK was reportedly paid 41 per person signed up). You can ask people to consider it from a different angle, but the whole thing still smells bad. Recommended Read more Why I feel sorry for the men being fined by Ryanair So, up to a point, I back Sir William Shawcross, the charity regulator, who yesterday laid down the law promising tougher rules for the sector as whole. But just as Age UK has been too defensive, the man charged with reforming the world of charity piles in too hard. It cannot be right, he said, for people to be hounded on the telephone, through the letterbox or in the street. This broad-brush rhetoric matches, quite closely, the line taken in the right-wing press suggestive of an industry totally out of control, as one Telegraph columnist put it. I have been mildly annoyed by fundraisers calling my mobile phone. But they stopped when I asked them to. I have been slightly troubled by the odd chugger. But again, they didnt chase me down the street. Hounded? Not once, and I would suggest that is the case for the majority of people who come into contact with charities. The rogues need to be dealt with (many charities have already curtailed their more dubious practices), but tarring the sector as a whole cannot be the right way to go about it. This is where it pays to give a little more attention to the man delivering the message. Quango bosses are thought to be neutral, ghost-like bureaucrats. They are trusted on that basis just glance at the headline Charity regulator blasts sector; if the regulator says as much, you assume, things must have reached a pretty pass. But Sir William, who as a journalist wrote a brilliant 1970 expose of Americas covert bombing of Cambodia, has question marks hanging over his head. He has attempted to quash rumblings of political bias, but has long struck insiders as something of a right-wing ideologue. Before he took the job, he wrote that a Conservative vote in 2010 was needed to bring the country back from the abyss. He has supported waterboarding and Guantanamo Bay, and been criticised for singling out a victim mentality in the Muslim community. Charming, certainly; efficient, too, but hes a walking PR disaster for the charitable world, one chief told Third Sector magazine. He was quick to blame charities for the death of Olive Cook, though the family maintains begging letters were not linked to the 92-year-olds suicide. Its critical that the charitable sector not be excused its failings because of the kind of work it does (see Kids Company for the defining example of why). Its also important that the figures who hold power over it do not add to the damaging impression of endemic corruption. The lesson? Always check a Quango bosss backstory. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} Britain has a tradition of royal commemorative tat dating back longer than might be imagined. Her Imperial Majesty Queen Victoria was the first to have her mug on mass-produced mugs, and various coronations, weddings, jubilees, baby births, wedding anniversaries and birthdays have been marked with appropriate and inappropriate crockery, glassware, tea towels and biscuit tins. It is odd that the grand institution of monarchy should be so associated with kitchenware, but certain legacies of the Victorian era nonetheless live on. Yet such symbols of ephemera were usually produced by private enterprise, with the Palace occasionally intervening when the limits of good taste were breached. Now, with Queen Elizabeth IIs 90th birthday soon upon us, the complaint is that the monarchy is itself cashing in with a range of officially approved items for sale at exorbitant prices. This criticism seems ill-placed. If such profits from the Royal Familys global fan base can reduce its dependence on hard-pressed taxpayers, so much the better. We are often being told how beneficial the House of Windsor is to the UK economy, and now is a fine time for the Firm to prove its commercial worth. The lifestyles of Princes William and Harry could be easily funded by sales of novelty boxer shorts and toy rescue helicopters; jumbo ashtrays designed by the Duchess of Cornwall would surely find a ready market, and the Prince of Wales could easily expand his Duchy Originals range to include more personalised offerings such as a comb-over maintenance kit for balding, ageing chaps the world over. Prince George and Princess Charlotte dungarees and dolls would do nicely, and how about a Prince Philip Action Man? In fairness, too, the Royal Mail and Royal Mint should hand over a percentage of the profits from the special stamps, coins, mugs and other knicknacks. Imagine if the British monarchy turned a profit, disarmed its critics and helped to pay down the national debt? Surely then theyd be more secure in long reigning over us. Sign up for the View from Westminster email for expert analysis straight to your inbox Get our free View from Westminster email Please enter a valid email address Please enter a valid email address SIGN UP I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy notice Thanks for signing up to the View from Westminster email {{ #verifyErrors }}{{ message }}{{ /verifyErrors }}{{ ^verifyErrors }}Something went wrong. Please try again later{{ /verifyErrors }} If the last few weeks have taught us anything, its that Hollywood is racist. From the Oscars to the British Academy Film Awards, accusations of prejudice and whitewashing have hit the film industry after minority actors were excluded from the majority of award nominations. Gender controversy has also been addressed, including the way in which its reported; the #askhermore hashtag in particular demanded that female actors were asked about something else than the dress they were wearing on the red carpet. In other words, the 2016 awards season has been one of the most controversial in recent history. As the treatment of Carol - a film that tells the story of a lesbian affair in the 1950s - this awards season shows, lesbian relationships remain taboo enough to get nominations, but no wins. Directed by Todd Haynes and starring Cate Blanchett and Rooney Mara, Carol has been the toast of critics across the globe; picking up 20 nominations in nearly every major category this awards season. Bizarre then that it was snubbed in the Best Picture and Best Director categories by the Academy; despite the fact that out of ten spaces up for grabs in this category, only eight films were selected. Stranger still that out of nine BAFTA nods it should win nothing at last months awards. And again at last night's Oscars ceremony in Hollywood it won nothing, despite having picked up six nods. There are no central male characters in Carol at all, and the ones who do appear are either mocked or ignored. This is a film that celebrates female sexuality in a way that is authentic, original and completely self-supporting. Not to mention removed from men altogether. Cate Blanchett's character rejects her husband in for a more fulfilling relationship with a woman and this unapologetic glorification of female sexual independence is clearly something the Oscars and the BAFTAs couldnt stomach. It seems that in having the audacity to sideline men and focus solely on female experience, the film has provoked the wrath of awards voters. Considering that 77 per cent of those Academy voters are male, it was hard to have high hopes for this film at yesterdays Oscars ceremony. It would be easy to assume that Carol was merely pipped to the post by high quality competition. But when you compare this films fate to the eerily similar treatment of The Kids are All Right in 2010 - a film about a lesbian couple whose teenage children set out to find their sperm donor father - then the treatment of Carol speaks volumes. Recommended Read more The day I found out my son had a rare genetic disease Starring Annette Bening and Julianne Moore, The Kids are All Right picked up rave reviews and four Oscar nods, including one for Bening in the Lead Actress Category and Best Picture. Not to mention another four Golden Globes BAFTA nominations each. But despite the hype around the film, it failed to win any major awards. Tellingly, the film did exceedingly well in lesser known ceremonies, sweeping the board at women-specific awards such as Alliance of Women Film Journalists and the Women Film Critics Circle Awards, where it earned recognition for its witty portrait of postmodern family life. If anything, its success at these awards where women, rather than men, sat in larger numbers on the deciding panels - proves that lesbian relationships are being rendered invisible in big awards ceremonies and skipped over in favour of narratives that privilege male experience. Unfortunately, an unapologetic embrace of female sexuality that fails to factor in male sexuality with it continues to be a problem for some of the most powerful people in the industry. The Oscars may have always had a diversity problem - but its becoming more obvious now than ever that a panel of judges who are 93 per cent white, 77 per cent male, and 85 per cent over 50-years-old is not fit for purpose in the modern media. Cork is set to gain 30m from the European Investment Bank (EIB) to development the country's biggest natural harbour. The project, with the Port of Cork as borrower, is currently going through an appraisal process with funding expected to be formally signed off later this year. It will support an expansion of the Port of Cork's deep-water port in Ringaskiddy, which is expected to cost 88m in total. "The EIB expects to support the project later this year and this follows a 100m loan to the Port of Dublin agreed last December," a spokesman for the European Union's bank said. Details outlined in the appraisal documents state that: "The project will expand the capacity of the deep-water port at Ringaskiddy enabling the Port of Cork to relocate operations from the Upper Harbour, where the depth of the water channel and width of the river are significant constraints to the size and number of vessels that can access port facilities." The EIB can lend to any borrower if the project involved meets its criteria of promoting growth. The bank typically co-invests alongside a joint venture partner on a 50:50 basis. Traditionally, it has been most associated with funding infrastructure and ramped up investments in Ireland in the wake of the financial crisis. It will take a more prolonged period of political uncertainty to really rattle investors, but Irish government bonds are expected to be hit today when markets open for the first time since the election. Friday's inconclusive vote carries strong echoes of Spain, where efforts to form a government have been unsuccessful since elections in December, and Portugal, where a weak minority government has been in power since October. An unclear general election outcome in a third Eurozone country at the same time may well cause financial investors to sit up and take notice, and not in a good way. Worse still would be a protracted hung Dail at the same time as investors nervously watch the run-up to Britain's June referendum on EU membership. The vote has huge implications for Ireland, which will be magnified for investors by a prolonged period of internal political instability. "There has been an indecisive vote, and markets don't like uncertainty," said Ryan McGrath, head of fixed-income strategy at Cantor Fitzgerald in Dublin. He expects Irish bond yields will open weaker today on the back of that, but not dramatically. A rise in bond yields pushes up the notional cost of borrowing for the State - indicating how much lenders would seek if the Government wanted to raise new money, but the interest on existing debt doesn't change. "Before the vote markets were braced for either a hung Dail or a Fine Gael/Fianna Fail coalition, and they are still the two possibilities," Mr McGrath said. When that possible outcome was being mooted earlier in the month it pushed up bond yields but investors who saw value in the bonds - because they are convinced by Ireland's wider recovery story - came in quickly and settled the market, he said. In the short term that's likely to happen again, he thinks, because a lot of investors are sold on the Irish case. But the longer it takes to put together a new coalition, the tougher it will be to keep markets onside, he said. That's been the experience in Spain. Trading in its bonds has become increasingly volatile since an election in December ended in a stalemate leaving no party in a position to form a government, or so far, even to put together a coalition. Portugal emerged from its bailout in 2014 comfortably able to raise money on the markets, but has seen its debt costs shoot up since October, when elections returned a fractured parliament and a brought a left leaning minority government to power If coalition talks here run into months rather than week then Ireland will see the same results, according to Ryan McGrath. Ryan McGrath thinks the pressure will come on Fine Gael and Fianna Fail to form a government. "There is hardly the width of a cigarette paper between them on most policy issues," said Philip O'Sullivan, an economist at Investec in Dublin. From a markets perspective, if there isn't a new coalition a second election should happen sooner rather than later, reckons Mr McGrath. One thing which investors may be betting on, is that in Ireland a hung Dail can be quickly dissolved and a new elections held. That's not the case in Spain, where a fresh vote that might break the impasse cannot be held until six months after the last. One factor in Ireland's favour is that even if bond yields go up, the State is under no short term pressure to raise money on the markets. "The National Treasury management Agency (NTMA) is under no pressure here," said Mr McGrath. About 4bn of the total 6bn to 10bn expected to be borrowed this year has already been raised, and at low rates. In theory as little as 2bn needs to be borrowed over the next 10 months. PCH, the Irish product design firm that manufactures products for clients including Apple, will cut up to 250 roles at its China manufacturing operations. The company informed employees this morning of a voluntary redundancy programme that could affect up to 250 workers. PCH is headed up by Ireland's 'Mr China', Liam Casey, who says that the reduction in roles at the company has been caused by an increase in sophistication at its Chinese operations. "Chinese factory partners are increasingly sophisticated, and quality-driven which has reduced the need for localised PCH factory-based engineering and supply chain management services. 15 years ago the factories in China were very different. Today they have strong engineering teams, improved communications, and project management," Mr Casey said. PCH currently employs around 100 people in Ireland at its headquarters in Cork. Mr Casey continued: "We can now leverage the enhanced expertise of these factories, and in support of our growth strategy, focus on product engineering resources that are closer to where demand exists. Regrettably, these changes will impact a number of our China based colleagues with whom we are consulting at this time, and who will be offered generous redundancy packages on a volunteer basis. Kim Kardashian is coming out of Cipriani restaurant in Soho on February 10, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Raymond Hall/GC Images) In what is yet another nail in a firmly-closed coffin, WhatsApp has announced that it will drop support for its BlackBerry app by the end of this year. The messaging app used by more than one billion people said that it would end support for the once all-conquering smartphone, as well as older versions of Nokia, Android and Windows Phone software. Despite their gradual fade into obscurity, BlackBerries still have a following among fans of tactile keyboards and reliable email services. David Cameron admitted to still using one last year, and Kim Kardashian has been a vocal supporter of the keyboard-enabled handsets. Although BlackBerrys most recent device, the Priv, runs Android, it was still releasing devices running its own operating system last year, so the (presumably small) number of people who bought one will be without WhatsApp in 10 months time. When the messaging app, now owned by Facebook, was started in 2009, it was developed for BlackBerry and Nokias Symbian, the dominant smartphone platforms at the time, and faced tough competition from BlackBerry's own BBM. Android, iOS and Windows Phone had less than a quarter of the market. But the Canadian manufacturers share of smartphone sales now stands at just 0.2pc, according to Gartner, with smartphones running BlackBerry OS selling 1.7 million units. WhatsApp said it had made a tough decision to stop supporting BlackBerry by the end of 2017. As we look ahead to our next seven years, we want to focus our efforts on the mobile platforms the vast majority of people use, it said. Perhaps most offensively for BlackBerry fans, WhatsApp recommended that users upgrade to a newer Android, iPhone, or Windows Phone before the end of 2016. As well as BlackBerry, WhatsApp said it would end support for Nokia S40, Nokia Symbian S60, Android 2.1 and 2.2 and Windows Phone 7.1. While these mobile devices have been an important part of our story, they don't offer the kind of capabilities we need to expand our app's features in the future, WhatsApp said. Telegraph Media Group Limited [2022] I challenge you all to try a new learning adventure! I'm back in the States now, in fact, I've been here since the end of October.... Genevieve Hamilton, Eimear O'Rourke and Aine Harney from Athlone enjoying the week end at Fr. Ted 10th fest on Inis Mor island, Co. Galway. After three days of high jinks on Inis Mor, this year's Tedfest ended on a sombre note as fans of Father Ted learned of the death of Frank 'Fr Jack' Kelly. Organiser Peter Phillips said festival-goers were "devastated" by the news, and raised a glass to their hero on the final day of the event. "Fr Jack will go down as one of the most famous Irish television characters of all time," he said. "It was poignant that he died on the same date that Dermot Morgan did so many years ago. Expand Close John Bottrell and Dorris Gerth enjoying the week end at the 10th Fr. Ted fest on Inis Mor island, Co. Galway. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp John Bottrell and Dorris Gerth enjoying the week end at the 10th Fr. Ted fest on Inis Mor island, Co. Galway. "Tedfest is always on the last weekend of February, and the reason we do it then is because it coincides with Ted's passing." Mr Phillips said Kelly would be fondly remembered and sadly missed. Among the hundreds of fans who travelled to the Aran Islands for this year's festival were German Doris Gerth and her partner, Australian John Bottrell, who met at last year's event. Both had lost their spouses five years earlier and had little inkling they would find love on the craggy island of Inis Mor. Doris, from Cologne, said she was a late newcomer to both Ireland and Father Ted. "Father Ted was recommended to me because it was never on German TV. I watched it and I couldn't stop because it was so funny," she said. She ret-urned to Inis Mor with John at the weekend to celebrate the anniversary of their first meeting. "We met on my first day of Tedfest last year. We talked - we had the same interest of photography and we both like to travel a lot," said Doris. Video of the Day "His wife passed away the same year as my husband died. "Me and John decided to meet in Dublin after last year's festival, and when we said goodbye we were really good friends, but we sent a lot of emails and that was how it worked." This was John's fourth trip to Tedfest. "I come from Perth every year for it. I've always been a 'Father Ted fan'," he said. "Myself and Doris met here in Ti Joe Watty's, she walked in the room and I noticed her straight away. "I went up and asked her would she like a pint." From racism to rape to paedophilia and climate change, stars had agendas to push at this year's Oscars and they took full advantage of a global audience of several hundred million viewers. Chris Rock set the tone with his opening monologue which tore the Academy apart over the #OscarsSoWhite controversy. "Welcome to the Academy Awards, otherwise known as the white people's choice awards!" he began, before tackling racism, "Is Hollywood racist? You're damn right it's racist! Hollywood is sorority racist - We like you Rhonda, but you're not a Kappa!" However, he spoke out against the boycott. "Why are we protesting this Oscars? It's the 88th Academy Awards, which means this whole 'no black nominees' thing has happened at least 71 other times." He said black people didn't protest before because they had "real things to protest at the time. They were too busy being raped and lynched to care about who wins best cinematographer." And so it continued as Rock, who admitted he had completely re-written his monologue in the wake of the diversity controversy, performed a autopsy on the elephant in the room. Elsewhere, Vice President Joe Biden and Lady Gaga united to promote White House campaign It's On Us, which aims to eradicate sexual assaults on US university campuses. Biden introduced Lady Gaga for her haunting performance of Till It Happens to You, which was nominated for Best Original Song. "Despite significant progress over the last couple years, too many women and men are still victims of sexual abuse," he said. "Let's change the culture so that no abused woman or man ever feels they have to ask themselves, 'What did I do?'. They did nothing wrong." Video of the Day Gaga's song features on the soundtrack for the 2015 documentary The Hunting Ground which documents alleged incidents of abuse on American college campuses. For her performance Gaga was joined on stage by survivors of sexual assault. The winners' speeches provided the perfect opportunity for stars to have their say and Leonardo DiCaprio harnessed his 60 seconds following his first ever Oscar win to highlight the issue of climate change. "Making The Revenant was about man's relationship to the natural world. Climate change is real, it is happening right now," he said. "We need to support leaders around the world who do not speak for the big polluters, the big corporations, but all of humanity,the indigenous people of the world, the billions and billions of underprivileged people who will be most affected by this, for our children's children, for those people out there whose voices have been drowned out by the politics of greed. "I thank you all for this amazing award tonight. Let us not take this planet for granted. I do not take tonight for granted." The Spotlight team also took the opportunity to address the Catholic Church in their acceptance speech for Best Film. The film charts the Boston Globe's 2002 expose on the child molestation scandal which rocked the city's Catholic church. Producer Michael Sugar said that he hoped the film's message - that institutional silence on child abuse would not be tolerated - would "resonate all the way to the Vatican". He continued, "Pope Francis - it's time to protect the children and restore the faith." Expand Close Producers Steve Golin, Blye Pagon Faust, Nicole Rocklin and Michael Sugar (L-R) of the Best Picture winning film "Spotlight" pose with their Oscars backstage at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California February 28, 2016. REUTERS/Mike Blake / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Producers Steve Golin, Blye Pagon Faust, Nicole Rocklin and Michael Sugar (L-R) of the Best Picture winning film "Spotlight" pose with their Oscars backstage at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California February 28, 2016. REUTERS/Mike Blake Producers Steve Golin, Blye Pagon Faust, Nicole Rocklin and Michael Sugar (L-R) of the Best Picture winning film "Spotlight" pose with their Oscars backstage at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California February 28, 2016. REUTERS/Mike Blake Director Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu accepts his award for Best Director in The Revenant on stage at the 88th Oscars Actress Alicia Vikander accepts the Best Supporting Actress award for 'The Danish Girl' onstage during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre on February 28, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) Leonardo DiCaprio receives the Oscar for Best Actor for the movie "The Revanant" from Julianne Moore at the 88th Academy Awards in Hollywood, California February 28, 2016. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni Leonardo DiCaprio accepts the Oscar for Best Actor for the movie "The Revenant" at the 88th Academy Awards Leonardo DiCaprio earned a standing ovation after finally winning his first Oscar after six nominations. The 41-year-old won for his portrayal in The Revenant and was met by fierce applause by the audience and his fellow nominees, including a beaming Michael Fassbender. DiCaprio had previously been nominated five times but triumphed with his portrayal of real-life fur trapper Hugh Glass in Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu's survival thriller, and he paid tribute to his collaborators as he stepped up onstage. "Thank you all so very much...," Leonardo said. "To my brother in this endeavour, (co-star) Tom Hardy. Tom, your fierce talent onscreen can only be surpassed by your friendship offscreen. "To Mr. Alejandro Inarritu, as the history of cinema unfolds, you have forged your way into history in these past two years; what an unbelievable talent you are..." Leo also made a plea to tackle climate change. "We need to support leaders around the world who do not speak for the big polluters, the big corporations, but all of humanity,the indigenous people of the world, the billions and billions of underprivileged people who will be most affected by this, for our children's children, for those people out there whose voices have been drowned out by the politics of greed," he said. "I thank you all for this amazing award tonight. Let us not take this planet for granted. I do not take tonight for granted." As expected, Brie Larson won Best Actress for Room. The American actress paid tribute to Irish director and screenwriter Lenny Abrahamson and Emma Donoghue, who were both nominated in their respective categories, as well as thanking her "partner through this", her nine-year-old co-star Jacob Tremblay. Read More Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (The Revenant) scooped Best Director for the second year in a row, a previously unheard of feat. Last year he won for Birdman. Best Picture went to Spotlight, which details the Boston Globe's 2002 expose on the child molestation scandal which rocked the city's Catholic church, and the film also won Best Original Screenplay. Expand Close Actress Alicia Vikander accepts the Best Supporting Actress award for 'The Danish Girl' onstage during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre on February 28, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Actress Alicia Vikander accepts the Best Supporting Actress award for 'The Danish Girl' onstage during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre on February 28, 2016 in Hollywood, California. (Photo by Kevin Winter/Getty Images) Video of the Day Read More "We made this film for all the journalists who have and continue to hold the powerful accountable," said director Tom McCarthy. Mad Max took away six awards including Costume Design, Make-up and Hair, and Production Design. Read More A few surprises were thrown into the mix this year with Mark Rylance pipping Sylvester Stallone to the post for the Best Supporting Actor gong for his role in Bridge of Spies. Alicia Vikander, as expected, took home the award for Best Supporting Actor for The Danish Girl. "Thank you so much for your support and belief in me. Eddie, thank you for being the best acting partner. I wouldn't be here if it wasn't for my dream team. Thank you for giving me the belief that anything can happen," she said. Irish director Ben Cleary was also celebrating after his film Stutterer won Best Live Action Short. Read More Musical performances came from rocker Dave Grohl, who sang an acoustic cover of Paul McCartney's Blackbird during the annual In Memoriam segment, and Best Song nominees The Weeknd, Lady Gaga, and eventual winner Sam Smith, who was praised for Writing's on the Wall from James Bond movie Spectre. Meanwhile, ceremony host Chris Rock addressed the Oscars' diversity issue head on, opening the show by quipping, "Well, I'm here at the Academy Awards, otherwise known as the White People's Choice Awards!" He continued to joke about the controversy throughout the show, where guest presenters included Russell Crowe, Ryan Gosling, Sofia Vergara, Charlize Theron, and Whoopi Goldberg. The winners Best Picture: Spotlight Best Actor: Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant Best Actress: Brie Larson, Room Best Director: Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, The Revenant Best Supporting Actress: Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl Best Supporting Actor: Bridge of Spies Best Original Screenplay: Spotlight Best Adapted Screenplay: The Big Short Best Costume Design: Mad Max: Fury Road Best Production Design: Mad Max: Fury Road Best Animated Film: Inside Out Best Animated Short Film: Bear Story Best Original Song: Sam Smith, Writing's On The Wall Best Visual Effects: Ex Machina Best Cinematography: Emmanuel Lubezki, The Revenant Best Makeup and Hairstyling: Mad Max: Fury Road Best Costume Design: Jenny Beavan, Mad Max: Fury Road Best Live Action Short Film: Stutterer Best Foreign Language Film: Son of Saul Best Original Film Score: Ennio Morricone, The Hateful Eight Academy Honorary Awards: Spike Lee, Gena Rowlands Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award: Debbie Reynolds. The champagne corks were popping in TV3 over the weekend after the station sold the rights to its award- winning show, Red Rock, in a deal worth over 500,000. TV3 has scored another coup after BBC Worldwide snapped up all 80 episodes of the popular soap, which won three IFTA's last year. It's a double celebration for Element Pictures, which shares the rights with TV3 and Angel Station, given that the same company is also behind award-winning film Room. The lucrative deal comes in the wake of the show, which stars Valerie O'Connor and Cathy Belton, going live in America on Amazon Prime last week - and garnering a positive reaction. The media company bought the rights last November for a cool 1m. A source said the latest deal for TV3 and the show's co-producers was a huge boost for all involved. It's not yet been decided which BBC station will screen the show, but it's expected to have a "prominent" slot. "It proves that the programme has international appeal and is a great showcase for Ireland as so many scenes are filmed on outside locations. It's also a big stamp of approval for the cast and all the crew involved in it," the source said. Costing around 65,000 per episode, much of the show is filmed on the grounds of the John Player factory on South Circular Road. Now in its second series, plans are afoot to air the drama more than twice a week with plans to film through the summer this year instead of taking a break, as was done in 2015. Meanwhile, teen actress Ann Skelly (18), who plays troubled schoolgirl Rachel Reid, said that it was "cool" that the drama was now being shown Stateside. She said friends had sent her screen shots of the positive comments the show had received after going live on Amazon Prime on February 18. Video of the Day It's the first major role for the young star, who also had a small part in RTE's Rebellion, but says she has mainly learned on the job. She plays the part of a schoolgirl who has an affair with her friend's dad, played by Sean Mahon "I haven't been to a drama school like the Gaiety or anything like that," she told the Diary. "So for me, it's been that kind of full-on, totally immersive, learning-on-the-job experience. The great thing about this is everyone gets on. "So it's really nice to feel that people have your back. Apparently, it's not the same with a lot of things, where everyone gels so well. It's nice," she said. Robert Gilbert-Smith (left), who pleaded guilty to his part in the conspiracy and has already served a sentence of imprisonment; and Terence McNamara (right), who liaised with a thief sent into Durham's Oriental Museum to steal a Ming dynasty sculpture - pleaded guilty at the start of the final trial Credit: Durham Police/PA Wire Thirteen members of an organised crime gang are facing jail after plotting to steal rhino horn and Chinese artefacts worth up to 57m (73m) in a series of museum raids. A jury convicted four of the gang's "generals" - who helped to plan and oversee a string of offences, including break-ins at Cambridge's Fitzwilliam Museum and Durham's Oriental Museum in 2012. John "Kerry" O'Brien Jr, 26, Richard "Kerry" O'Brien, 31, Michael Hegarty, 43, and Daniel "Turkey" O'Brien, 45, were found guilty after a trial which could not be reported because of similar offences committed by travelling criminals dubbed the "Rathkeale Rovers". The two-month hearing at Birmingham Crown Court was told that 10 other men had previously been convicted for their parts in the conspiracy, which included a bungled attempt to steal a rhino head from Norwich Castle Museum. Expand Close Paul Pammen, Donald Chi Chong Wong, Richard Sheridan, Robert Gilbert-Smith, Ashley Dad, John "Kerry" O'Brien Junior and Terence McNamara; (bottom row, left to right) Richard "Kerry" O'Brien, Patrick Clarke, Daniel "Turkey" O'Brien, Danny Flynn, John "Cash" O'Brien, Michael Hegarty and Alan Clarke Credit: Durham Police/PA Wire / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Paul Pammen, Donald Chi Chong Wong, Richard Sheridan, Robert Gilbert-Smith, Ashley Dad, John "Kerry" O'Brien Junior and Terence McNamara; (bottom row, left to right) Richard "Kerry" O'Brien, Patrick Clarke, Daniel "Turkey" O'Brien, Danny Flynn, John "Cash" O'Brien, Michael Hegarty and Alan Clarke Credit: Durham Police/PA Wire Although jurors heard that exhibits stolen in Durham and Cambridge were valued at around 17m, detectives believe they might have fetched up to 57m on the "booming" Chinese auction market. Members of the gang also masterminded an offence at Gorringes Auction House in Lewes, East Sussex, and organised the disposal of stolen artefacts. At least eight of the men convicted after a four-year international police inquiry have family or business links to Rathkeale in the Republic of Ireland. The latest trial was told that a computer used to make incriminating internet searches was found at a house in the Co Limerick town. Expand Close 18th century Chinese jade bowl with a Chinese poem inscribed on it, one of two items stolen from Durham University's Oriental Museum Credit: Durham Police/PA Wire / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp 18th century Chinese jade bowl with a Chinese poem inscribed on it, one of two items stolen from Durham University's Oriental Museum Credit: Durham Police/PA Wire Other defendants aged between 28 and 68 - from Cambridgeshire, London, Southend-on-Sea, Wolverhampton, Kent and Belfast - either admitted the offences or were found guilty by jurors. They included six members of the same Rathkeale family, travellers' rights campaigner Richard Sheridan, and Donald Wong, a London-based "fence" who made frequent trips to Hong Kong. A previous trial heard that Sheridan - a former spokesman for the Dale Farm travellers' encampment in Essex - was seen in the company of Wong shortly before police found 50,000 in cash in the boot of a car. Sheridan, 47, of Water Lane, Smithy Fen, Cottenham, Cambridgeshire; Wong, 56, of Clapham Common South Side, London; and Richard O'Brien, of Dale Farm, Oak Lane, Billericay, Essex, denied taking part in the plot between September 2011 and August 2012. Expand Close 18th century Chinese jade bowl with a Chinese poem inscribed on it, on its wood carved stand, one of two items stolen from Durham University's Oriental Museum Credit: Durham Police/PA Wire / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp 18th century Chinese jade bowl with a Chinese poem inscribed on it, on its wood carved stand, one of two items stolen from Durham University's Oriental Museum Credit: Durham Police/PA Wire Hegarty, John O'Brien and Daniel O'Brien, all of Orchard Drive, Smithy Fen, also denied any involvement in the offences but were unanimously convicted. None of the 18 jade exhibits stolen from the Fitzwilliam Museum in April 2012 have been recovered, but a bowl and figurine stolen in Durham were found hidden on waste ground. After the verdicts, Detective Superintendent Adrian Green, from Durham Constabulary, said the offences had been "massively profitable" for the gang. Derbyshire Chief Constable Mick Creedon, the national policing lead for organised crime, said: "This case starkly demonstrates the level of threat, the lengths criminal gangs will go to and the importance of law enforcement agencies sharing intelligence and working together." One of the men convicted has already been jailed and served his sentence. The other 13 offenders will be sentenced in April. A 22-year-old asylum seeker who raped a woman in Waterford city has been jailed for five years. Kenneth Udeh met the woman while she was on a night out and raped her after offering her a lift home. The rape stopped when a passer-by scared him away. Udeh with an address at Coffee House Lane, Waterford, but originally from Nigeria pleaded guilty on the day of his trial at the Central Criminal Court to the rape of the woman in Waterford City on September 14th, 2014. Mr Justice Patrick McCarthy noted the attack had a serious effect on the woman but also had to take into account that Udeh was a foreign national and had entered a guilty plea. He imposed a five year sentence which he backdated to reflect the time Udeh has spent in custody. Judge McCarthy noted that the woman did not think Udeh should be allowed to remain in the country but said that was not a matter for the court to decide. Udeh came to Ireland in 2009 and had applied for and been refused asylum twice. He is now appealing his position to the Refugee Appeals Tribunal. Garda Catriona Savage said that the first time Udeh applied for asylum he said he was a Christian coming from a Muslim country. The second time he claimed he was a homosexual coming from a Muslim country. In a victim impact report read to the court the woman, who cannot be named, said Udeh violated and took complete advantage of her. She said she felt like she didn't want to live after the rape and that she had nothing to live for. It put severe pressure on her relationship with her partner and it was only through his patience and understanding that the relationship survived, she wrote. The woman wrote that she felt Udeh has given all black men a bad name and that she was now afraid of black men. She said she won't get into a taxi now if the driver was black. I feel he shouldn't be allowed remain in the country, the woman added in her statement. Gda Savage told Tara Burns SC, prosecuting, that the victim, who was in her twenties, was out for the night in the city. In the early hours of the morning she was outside a pub and got chatting to a group of men, including Udeh, who were smoking. She said goodnight to the men and was about to leave when Udeh offered her a lift home. The two then walked to where Udeh said his car was. The woman said later that the next thing she remembered was being on the ground with Udeh on top of her with his trousers down. She shouted stop it and get off me but Udeh raped her. He did not wear a condom. A local man was leaving work late when he saw Udeh and the woman and heard her shouts. He shouted at them causing Udeh to get up and flee. The man and a taxi driver gave chase but lost Udeh. A female passer-by came to the aid of the victim and gardai were called. They tracked down Udeh to a hostel near where the men had lost him. In interview he denied any sexual contact with the woman but this was contradicted by the forensic evidence. Defence counsel Mary Rose Gearty SC said that he had written a short and genuine apology to the woman. Gda Savage said that she didn't think the victim would accept this. Counsel said Udeh had been in custody since the offence and submitted that his time in prison would be more difficult for him due to his race and nationality. Labour Party deputy leader Alan Kelly celebrates with supporters at the count centre in Thurles after he won the last seat in the Tipperary constituency. Photo: Frank McGrath In the end, a humble bag of chips proved the perfect antidote for Alan Kelly's frayed nerves. It had been a high-octane 48 hours for the hard man of the Labour Party, who had garnered the moniker 'AK 47' for his ability to shoot from the hip during his colourful time in government. Yesterday, he made it back to the Dail - but only just. It was skin of the teeth stuff for the Tipperary TD, who had a nail-biting wait until finally bagging the fifth and final seat in the redrawn Tipperary constituency. When he arrived at the Presentation School in Thurles shortly after 2pm, his mood seemed decidedly downbeat. Gone was the brash and strident image he had carved out during his period in power. At times during the ebb and flow of the day's drama, it seemed he would become another casualty of what has been a nightmare election for Labour. Kelly was known to be especially worried as to what would be the fallout following the amalgamation of the old Tipperary North and Tipperary South constituencies. But then, shortly after 3pm, the returning officer delivered his fate. It led to a dam-burst of pent-up relief as the party's deputy leader suddenly found his voice. He let out a guttural roar. With veins protruding from his neck, and his face bright red, he stabbed the air ferociously with his fists. His supporters hoisted him high in the air as he shouted out his sheer relief at being re-elected. Then seemingly close to tears, he became almost overwhelmed with the whole emotion of the moment. Eventually, after 10 minutes of whooping and hollering, the fanfare died down. Much interest will focus on Deputy Kelly's tactics and approach, particularly if his party is destined for a significant period of time in opposition. Sources close to his campaign - confirmed by various comments he has made over the past year - confirm he harbours strong leadership ambitions. Party leader Joan Burton has not signalled her intentions regarding her longer term leadership plans, but last night one of Kelly's supporters maintained "he has age on his side". But as of now the deputy leader is keeping his cards close to his chest. He said he had "mixed emotions" about his re-election to the Dail. "My return to the Dail is bittersweet in the sense that it's been a terrible day for my party. It's been so emotional seeing friends and colleagues lose their seats," he said. But then his eye narrowed, and with a steely gaze he said solemnly: "Labour will bounce back. "The rebuilding of the party starts tomorrow. "It's going to be a big project and I'm certainly going to step up to the plate and ensure that I play my part in that." A short time later, Kelly made a beeline for the exit, flanked by some of his advisers. Exuding a palpable aura of relief, his first stop was Borza's takeaway in the town, where he clearly relished his bag of chips, complete with generous helpings of salt and vinegar. He then crossed the street to Michael Hickey's pub, and savoured a few drinks with his family and close supporters. He will now return to the new Dail - one among a tiny cluster of Labour TDs. Sobering times lie ahead. No energy could be spared on tears. Joan ground her knuckles into the corners of her eyes to punish the two tiny drops that had dared to spring forth at the presiding officer's confirmation. The General had been spared - but what of her army that lay dazed, bloodied and limping towards oblivion on battlefields around the country? Her reprieve came late in the night. Officially, she was said to be in danger from mid-morning with the final tally putting her neck-and-neck with Ruth Coppinger and Sinn Fein's Paul Donnelly. But the Tanaiste's husband, Pat Carroll - a renowned tallyman - had kept the faith. He had done the reckoning, calculated what transfers were likely to land where and was satisfied. All they had to do now was wait. In the meantime, Joan stayed away. "We just chilled out," said daughter Aoife, who shares the family's passion for politics. But she would never consider running herself, Aoife said, almost in horror, amid the ongoing national picture of Labour carnage unfolding. Mother and daughter had sat in the house on tenterhooks, receiving regular updates on the agonisingly slow process over at the Phibblestown count centre. The initial tally was delayed by the discovery of a bundle of number ones in favour of Paul Donnelly amongst David McGuinness's pile. "If I'd just got one more Mass," quipped Health Minister Leo Varadkar as he failed to meet the quota after the first count. But eventually he was first past the post and, with a kiss for his sister and high-fives for his nephews, was jubilant and exhausted. "I need to go to the pub," he said. Children were getting tired and fractious and Pot Noodles from the shop in the community centre were keeping energy levels afloat. Eventually as candidates were eliminated and votes distributed, Joan was unofficially declared to be in the clear. And then, finally, there she was, with a smile so radiant that it was almost startling to see how deeply this re-election meant to her. She went straight to Pat to be briefed on the figures. In her wake was her brother, Paul, his eyes brimming with tears. "I'm absolutely delighted. I couldn't sleep last night," he said. "She reared me," Paul explained, adding: "My mam died when I was 14." The signal that a development was nigh was when the presiding officer put his jacket back on - and eventually, that signal came. Without meeting the quota, Jack Chambers, Ruth Coppinger and Joan were elected. Chambers, just 25-years-old, was raised aloft in triumph. But there was only one story here and it was Joan's salvation. Chambers celebrated the return of Fianna Fail, Coppinger declared that water charges would have to be scrapped. There was an outright laugh from the Tanaiste as Coppinger said they would build "a real left to replace the Labour Party". Not mere survival but growth will be Joan's focus. But for now, she too was off to the pub. Lucinda Creighton of Renua Ireland at the count in the RDS, where she lost her seat on Saturday. Photo: Tom Burke It did not take long after Lucinda Creighton quit Fine Gael before there were suggestions she would form her own party. The country was crying out for something new. Somebody strong enough to deal with Fianna Fail and Fine Gael but human enough to represent us at home and abroad. The death of the Progressive Democrats left an obvious opening for a 'smaller party' and for many analysts Ms Creighton fit the bill to be leader. Perhaps the idea seemed all the more enticing for political anoraks, as the storyline was straight out of the Danish TV series 'Borgen' where the protagonist Brigitte Nyborg becomes the first female prime minister of Denmark. In January 2014, Ms Creighton assembled a vibrant list of speakers for a "monster rally" in the RDS as she dipped her toe in the water. It took until the following January for a 'launch before the real launch' to take place - at which point the name was unknown and the policies were non-existent. There was, though, an unexpected character thrown into the mix. Television presenter and financial adviser Eddie Hobbs stepped forward to be part of the project - although his role, at least in public, wasn't entirely clear. Eventually in March we were introduced to Renua Ireland. The name caused some confusion but most people were willing to give it a chance. If nothing else Ms Creighton had stepped off the 'independent' sideline and onto the pitch. She wanted to play with the big boys. She had convinced Terence Flanagan and Billy Timmons to be part of the team, along with her husband, Senator Paul Bradford - but nobody else of note. In an effort to show that they wouldn't just be an urban party, the launch was attended by unknown Offaly councillor John Leahy. She was trying to cover all the bases - but there were obvious issues from the start. The fact that Roscommon TD Denis Naughten wouldn't join was a major blow. There were policy gaps too, and where there were ideas, they seemed too radical for a country refusing to accept recovery was under way. A 23pc flat tax sounds attractive but while Irish voters often talk about change, history suggests they don't rush into it. Then day one was overshadowed by Mr Flanagan's 'brain freeze' on radio. Asked how Renua was going to be very different, he replied: "We're going to ensure that obviously what happened...what happened ... emmm...will ensure..." before stopping mid-sentence. The election campaign threw up two big issues for Ms Creighton. One was questions over a complaint to Sipo that she got reduced legal fees as part of a High Court defamation case. Despite describing the Sipo case as "frivolous", she refused to produce the invoices that would have instantly cleared her name. The other thing going against her was Fine Gael's determination to smother her brave new world. Businesswoman Kate O'Connell was sent out to effectively be the 'new Lucinda' in Dublin Bay South. So back at a packed RDS on Saturday, Ms Creighton lost her seat and passed more than 1,500 transfers to Ms O'Connell and her former colleague Eoghan Murphy in the process. Renua's big problem was it hinged almost entirely on Ms Creighton. She was the founder, the leader, the face and the spokesperson. Ironically, having fought the election with no State funding, the party is now entitled to money from the exchequer having achieved 2pc of the national vote. Renua is dead, long live Renua. The big lesson for all the parties is that it isn't soaring house prices, access to childcare or water charges which drives voters to the ballot box. By far the most compelling issue in the mind of the electorate in this election was health. The RTE/Behaviour and Attitudes exit poll says that 20pc of the electorate cited the health service as the number one reason why they voted, followed closely behind by management of the economy at 18pc. Surprisingly, water charges exercised the minds of just 8pc of voters, while childcare, house prices and the cost of renting and education barely registered. Even traditional issues like crime only featured in the mind of 4pc of voters, despite the Regency Hotel gangland killing which occurred at the early stages of the campaign. This suggests that the messages being relayed by the main parties over the course of the three-week campaign simply weren't hitting home. Whatever about the laudable need to invest in social housing, coupled with politically-popular pledges to cut the USC to give families more money in their pockets, the fact remains that nothing exercises the voter like hearing about sick and ill people not being able to access a hospital bed. It has been a torrid election for the Fine Gael and Labour coalition, which throughout the campaign emphasised the economic recovery under way. Tax receipts are on the rise, unemployment has plummeted from a high of 15pc just three years ago to less than 9pc today and the economy is experiencing the highest growth rate in the EU at 7pc last year. By any measure, it's an impressive performance, especially given the economic turmoil we have all endured in recent years. But statistics are one thing. The fact is that the improving economy simply isn't resonating in the minds of the voters. In fact the exit poll, which reflected the views of almost 4,300 voters across 223 polling stations in all 40 constituencies, suggests that while most people accept the economic climate is improving, it isn't having an impact on their personal finances. Asked if they believed the country was better off today than a year ago, 46pc said yes, 35pc said it was the same and 19pc said it was worse off. Men tended to believe things were better than women, while rural voters were more likely to state the economy was in a worse-off state. But when asked if they felt better off financially, it appears that although almost half of all voters believe the economy is improving, it isn't making a difference to their bank balance. Just 26pc said their personal finances had improved, while 26pc said they were worse. The remainder said they were unchanged. Women and older voters were less inclined to believe their finances were in a better state than a year ago. The poll reveals that the most pressing issues for men were the economy, health and stable government, in that order. For women, it was health, the economy and water charges, perhaps reflecting a concern about the household budget. For younger voters aged 18-24, health, education and unemployment/jobs were the big issues. For the 25-34-year-olds, it was the economy, health and water charges. For all other age categories, health and the economy were the most pressing concerns. Irish politics is firmly rooted in the centre - where 0 means left wing, and 10 means right wing, some 54pc of voters classed themselves between 4 and 6, or right in the middle. And an analysis of how first preference votes were transferred, carried out by the Independent.ie Data Science Team, suggests that while some voters wanted change, they didn't want it to be too radical. Some 35pc of first preference votes for the Greens, Social Democrats and Renua went back to the Government parties. To an extent, the real story of this election is the rise of the Independents and smaller parties. More than one in three voters cast their ballot in favour of these new political movements, and the poll suggests that Sinn Fein is hoovering up the youth vote. The establishment parties face an enormous challenge in attracting back these voters. It will take more than election slogans to stop the march of the Independents and smaller parties. General Election 2016 may have been a shock to the system, but there may be more to come. Sean Sherlock said he was 'delighted' to have buck the national trend which saw Labour lose big across the country Credit: Mark Condren As dawn broke over a slumbering Mallow, cheers of delight rang across the chilly early Sunday morning air as the marathon Cork East count finally reached its long-awaited conclusion. When returning officer Noreen ONeill read out the results of the first count at 7.55 pm on Saturday night it became clear that Fianna Fails Cllr Kevin OKeeffe, who narrowly missed out on a Dail seat in 2011, would be elected. Fianna Fail are back in Cork East, were the words on the lips of every party supporter in the hall, signalling the end of the first Dail term in the history of the state where the constituency did not have a Fianna Fail seat. Later on in the night Kevins father, former junior Minister Ned OKeeffe, wore a grin from ear-to-ear as he shook hands with supporters. It was also clear from very early on that sitting Fine Gael TD David Stanton would be returned for the fifth time, albeit not as poll topper as many had predicted. Although he felt some of the backlash his party had received across the country, his seat was never really in doubt. Some one who many predicted might struggle was Labours junior Minister Sean Sherlock, with the early tallies causing his team a few anxious moments. However, as the subsequent counts came in and transfers went his way Deputy Sherlock, who had topped the poll in 2011, gradually began to pick up transfers, restoring the smiles back to the faces of the party faithful and, much to the surprise of many, topping the poll for the second time in succession. Given the poor showing of his party across the country, one could be forgiven for thinking he might well be in the mix when it comes to selecting a new party leader. Speaking after he had been lifted aloft by his jubilant supporters, a beaming Deputy Sherlock said he was delighted to have "received such a strong mandate from the people of this constituency". To be honest I have yet to internalise this impact of this victory as it goes against the head when you look at the national situation, but i must thank my team for their hard work and commitment. I look forward to serving the people of the constituency for however long that may be. Politics is a tough business and my thoughts go out to the many good people who lost their seats today in mine and other parties, he added. With sitting TD Tom Barry (FG), going out on the fifth count, transfers not going the way of his party colleague Cllr Noel McCarthy and Senator Paul Bradford never realistically at the races, Sinn Feins Pat Buckley emerged as the favourite to take the fourth seat. It came as no surprise that the of distribution of Noel McCarthys votes after the eighth count pushed Sean Sherlock, David Stanton and Kevin OKeeffe (in that order) over the line. The subsequent distribution of Deputy Sherlocks surplus of 1,241 votes saw Cllr Buckley deemed to be elected without reaching the quota. Deputy Buckley said he was humbled to take the seat and delighted on behalf of our team. I am just the captain of this team, which has worked unbelievably hard. They have been amazing. We know the work we put in. This is an amazing mandate to get from the people of the constituency and I look forward to doing so much more on their behalf, he said. Dun Laoghaire saw Fine Gael buck a national trend and secure three of the four seats in the constituency. Richard Boyd Barrett ultimately topped the poll in the constituency having been very transfer friendly, but it was six counts before he managed to get over the line. Prior to this, candidates from the Fianna Fail, Labour, the Green Party, Renua Ireland, Sinn Fein, Independents and Direct Democracy Ireland had fallen by the wayside. Fine Gael ultimately have secured three out of the available four seats in the constituency, which is a remarkable coup given how they fared across the country. With Sean Barrett having already gotten a bye before the partys disastrous showing at the polls, Fine Gael were bound to get at least two seats but three? Early tallies indicated that the Fine Gael duo of Bailey and Mitchell OConnor and PBPs Boyd Barrett would take some beating, and that proved to be the case. Ms Mitchell OConnor said it had been a tough day for the party, but maintained she was pleased to have both retained her seat and seen another female candidate elected in her constituency. She gave her backing to under fire party leader Enda Kenny. Fine Gaels success here undeniably bucked a national trend and even defeated Fianna Fail candidate Mary Hanafin knew it. She said that Fine Gaels vote management strategy in the constituency had been impeccable while admitting that herself and fellow Fianna Fail candidate, Cormac Devlin hadnt had one. The former cabinet heavyweight was gracious in defeat, praising her former pupil and elected Fine Gael candidate, Maria Bailey. Consummately professional, Ms Hanafin said, [she was] a past pupil of mine Im glad I taught her so well. Fianna Fail will be left wondering what might have been after the plan to run two candidates ultimately backfired with both their candidates failing to win the party back seats in lost in 2011. Cormac Devlin, while praising party leader Micheal Martin, once again questioned the sense of running two candidates in the constituency. He, like Hanafin, was positive in defeat saying, that while it hadnt been Fianna Fails day in the constituency, nationally it had been an utter success. The day in Dun Laoghaire ultimately belonged to Boyd Barrett, who was elected on the same count that Labour candidate, Carrie Smyth was eliminated. Its genuinely humbling to have the trust and respect of the people of Dun Laoghaire, Boyd Barrett said. He speculated that Fianna Fail and Fine Gael would make up the next government, but would not speculate on its longevity. Triumphant, he said, we knew Labour were going to suffer very serious retribution from the electorate from what has gone on in the last five years. He was right. Sean Barrett, Richard Boyd Barrett, Mary Mitchell OConnor and Maria Bailey took the four seats and secured their places in the next Dail. The success of first time Fine Gael general election candidate Tom Neville and outgoing TD Patrick O'Donovan, saw Fine Gael buck the national trend and retain its two seats in the Limerick County constituency. Speaking after his first general election win, Tom Neville - son of long serving retired FG Deputy Dan Neville - said he has had "politics in his Cornflakes since he was ten years old." Dan Neville, former chairperson of the Fine Gael parliamentary party and president of the Irish Association of Suicidology, was among those celebrating his son's success at the count centre in UL arena. "It is a nice moment for the family as well given I am continuing on where my father has left off," said the 40-year-old newly elected TD. "I am absolutely humbled by the support I have been given. I can see from the national fingers that the Fine Gael trend has been bucked here in County Limerick and the local supporters worked extremely hard." Fianna Fail's outgoing Finance spokesperson Niall Collins, a member of the well known Collins political dynasty, took the first seat in the Limerick County constituency after receiving 12,276 first preference votes, increasing his first preference performance by 8 pc on the 2011 general election Speaking after his election Collins said he was "humbled" to have topped the poll, but was adamant that his party would not be doing business with Fine Gael or Sinn Fein. "I can't see it happening. What this country want is a change of emphasis from government. I can tell you on March 10th Micheal Martin with the nominee for Taoiseach." "We have said and I have said personally under no circumstances are are going in to prop up a Fine Gael proposition.... We have worked long and hard to rebuild our credibility as a political party and I think all that would just go for nought if we were to turn around and step into coalition with Fine Gael." There were strong showings in Limerick County by Independent Emmet O'Brien who secured 12 pc of first preference votes. James Heffernan of the Social Democrats, who unsuccessfully contested the last general election for the Labour Party in 2011 secured 7.5 pc while Sinn Fein's Seamus Browne also received 7.5 pc if first preference votes. Independent candidate Averil Power has said a recount of votes in Dublin Bay North needs to take as long as necessary to ensure it is fair and accurate. The 20-candidate constituency has been dubbed the group of death as remaining hopefuls compete for just four vacant seats. Ms Power requested a recount during the 12th count late on Sunday evening, pointing out there were only 67 votes between her and independent Tommy Broughan. She said it was unclear how long today's recount would take. "We were only on the 13th count after two full days yesterday, so were not sure how long its going to take, she said. But it needs to take as long as necessary to make sure the result is fair and accurate to everybody concerned, and particularly that the wishes of the people of Dublin Bay North are carried out. But she added that she was delighted to have gotten this far in what has been a highly competitive struggle for seats. We have come from nowhere and have built an organization and a campaign within a matter of months and have come within a few dozen votes of people like Tommy Broughan, whos been a TD here since 1992, she said. Finian McGrath is at risk of losing his seat, she added. We have two ministers here, five sitting TDs contesting nine councillors, [and] myself as a senator. The recount began at 11am on Monday. The big news so far has been that Fine Gael Richard Bruton, who launched a failed heave against Enda Kenny in 2010, was the first to pass the quota of 12,271. Speaking after the announcement, he thanked his family and supporters. He also moved to play downplay the possibility of his throwing his hat in the ring in a leadership contest for Fine Gael. Fianna Fails candidate Sean Haughey also looks set to the cross the line today. Meanwhile, the loss of Terence Flanagan has been a notable high-profile casualty, after he was eliminated on the ninth count with 3,588 votes. Sitting TDs Tommy Broughan, Finian McGrath (independent) and Labour's Aodhan O'Riordain are all still in the running. Fianna Fail will have both Dublin representatives and women swelling its ranks when the Dail returns on March 10. Micheal Martin's party is likely to end up with 42 seats when the voting concludes, with all but one of its outgoing TDs returning. Mr Martin is now poised to try form a government that excludes Fine Gael and Sinn Fein, although party sources accept that this will not be feasible. The result marks a massive comeback for Fianna Fail, which collected 24.3pc of first preference votes this time, compared with 17.4pc in 2011. Mr Martin said the party had fought the campaign on "getting fairness back into Irish politics and getting this Fine Gael-Labour Government out of office". "We have done that (listened to the Irish people). We have worked very hard over the past five years to listen to what the Irish people had to say. "We will now listen very carefully to the message they spelled out at the ballot box," he said. The former minister said the country "comes first in all our deliberations" in relation to the potential formation of a government. When counting concludes, the party will have six TDs in the capital, compared with none in the outgoing Dail. Darragh O'Brien and John Curran will all be returning after losing their seats five years ago, while Jim O'Callaghan, John Lahart and Jack Chambers will be first-time TDs. Sean Haughey is also all but certain to take a seat in Dublin Bay North. Mr Chambers, who won back the seat once held by Brian Lenihan in Dublin West, paid tribute to the late finance minister in his victory speech, describing him as "a real patriot" who "inspired my own interest in politics". "I think Fianna Fail are back and the Irish people had their say on this government. "This government wanted a coronation from the start. They had no vision and no energy. They just wanted to be re-elected without putting any positive policy platform forward," he said. Mr Curran, who is a former government chief whip, comfortably took the third seat in Dublin Mid-West. "After losing my seat five years ago, today is a good day, both for me personally and the party," he said. The party also had a major coup in Taoiseach Enda Kenny's Mayo constituency - where it managed to get a second TD at the expense of Fine Gael. Sitting TD Dara Calleary will be joined in the Dail by Lisa Chambers while Michelle Mulherin loses out. "When people stood back, the Fianna Fail membership in Co Mayo stood up," Mr Calleary said. Ms Chambers will be among at least five female Fianna Fail TDs. In Waterford Mary Butler made a breakthrough, Margaret Murphy O'Mahoney won a seat in Cork South West, Anne Rabbitte will represent Galway East and Fiona O'Loughlin took a second Fianna Fail seat in Kildare South. Ms Butler described her achievement of winning 10,603 first preference votes as "incredible". "This is a great day for Fianna Fail and I'm very proud that the people of Waterford have put their faith in me," she said. Mr Martin's success was summed up in his own constituency of Cork South Central, where he and the party's finance spokesman Michael McGrath took the first two seats. Mr McGrath topped the poll with 11,795 first preferences, while Mr Martin followed closely on 11,346. The one major casualty of the election for Fianna Fail was Galway East TD Colm Keaveney. He switched from the Labour Party after the last General Election but the decision of the party to add Ms Rabbitte to the ticket cost him dearly. "I'm very proud that I joined Fianna Fail. My decision to join Fianna Fail has been vindicated. "I warned back in 2012 that we were rapidly accelerating to a divided society, that the most vulnerable would pay. What I had forecast in 2012, materialised today," said Mr Keaveney. "I drove my children to school this week and I realised how big they've grown without me. My youngest is three inches taller since the start of the campaign," he said. Junior Minister and Fine Gael deputy leader James Reilly prepares to go on radio after losing his seat. Photo: Rolling news Fine Gael members are incensed by the vote strategies that were implemented for some TDs, but not for senior ministers, after the party was mauled by the electorate. Taoiseach Enda Kenny's party suffered major casualties as long-standing TDs lost their seats in a disastrous General Election campaign. Anger is now turning towards party headquarters and the elected representatives who were charged with overseeing Fine Gael's election strategy. Mr Kenny devolved power to three senior Cabinet ministers to plan and strategise for the General Election campaign which could now cost him his leadership. Justice Minister Frances Fitzgerald was appointed chair of Fine Gael's national election strategy committee, while Health Minister Leo Varadkar chaired a sub-committee on communication. Simon Coveney was put in charge of policy. All three ministers are regularly tipped as future party leaders. Dublin MEP Brian Hayes was appointed the party's director of elections. Soon after the results emerged on Saturday, former TDs began to turn on those who were responsible for orchestrating the failed campaign. Former Justice Minister Alan Shatter criticised what he called "interference in the electoral process by Fine Gael headquarters" after his shock defeat in Dublin Rathdown. Mr Shatter was referring to a series of letters sent by party headquarters to supporters in his end of the constituency, urging them to give his running mate Josepha Madigan their number one vote. "It's unfortunate that when you're running campaigns and people who aren't involved in them seem to think they can sit in Mount Street (Fine Gael headquarters) and impose views on people that bear no relationship to what's happening on the ground," he said. Ultimately, Ms Madigan took the seat while Mr Shatter lost out. In Cork East, the party added a third candidate - former Labour councillor Noel McCarthy - on top of sitting TDs David Stanton and Tom Barry. Only Mr Stanton won a seat. There are other examples of failed vote strategies, although others came off successfully, such as Dun Laoghaire and Meath East. It was noticeable, however, that strict vote strategies were not implemented in either Frances Fitzgerald's or Leo Varadkar's constituencies. Ms Fitzgerald was elected on the first count with 20pc of the vote in the four-seat constituency. Her running mate in Dublin Mid West, Derek Keating, polled just 5pc of the vote in the constituency. Sources say Ms Fitzgerald and Mr Keating's relationship is non-existent and it would have been difficult to organise a strategy between the pair. Mr Varadkar did write to some constituents, urging them to vote for his running mate Catherine Noone and the Labour leader Joan Burton. But the results show that Mr Varadkar got 20pc of the vote while his party colleague Ms Noone got less than 3pc. The surge in public support for Independent candidates showed no sign of abating as votes continued to be counted last night. Non-party candidates are on course to make up one-tenth of the Dail as a raft of new Independent TDs prepares to enter Leinster House for the first time. The swing towards Independents had been well flagged in opinion polls but it was believed by some that the vote would eventually be dispersed into the establishment parties during later counts. However, as votes were counted over the weekend, the Independent vote held strong in a number of constituencies and resulted in some big-name casualties. The most significant Independent win was for the Healy-Raes in Kerry, where brothers Michael and Danny controlled a massive 38pc of the first preference vote and made history by securing two seats for the famous political family. After the brothers' win, Michael Healy-Rae rounded on the "smart alecs in Dublin" who he said had "picked on" him. "Well, you know what? They'll have to pick through him to get to me," he said, referring to his brother Danny. Michael Lowry topped the poll in the newly formed Tipperary constituency. The win means that Mr Lowry has contested eight successful General Elections, despite a number of controversies surrounding the Independent TD. Fellow Independent Mattie McGrath will also return to Leinster House after getting elected on the fourth count in the same constituency. After his win, Mr McGrath said he was "open for business" should any of the big parties come looking for him when efforts to form a government get under way. "My door is always open," he added. Katherine Zappone, who came to prominence through her activism on the marriage equality referendum, recorded a surprise victory in Dublin South West. She edged out Fine Gael councillor Anne-Marie Dermody at 3am on Sunday after a re-check of the ballot. Another surprise winner was 'No Doctor, No Village' candidate Dr Michael Harty, who upset the main parties in Clare to take a seat at the expense of outgoing Labour Party TD Michael McNamara. Mr Harty, who has worked as a doctor in west Clare for 31 years, said his "one regret" in securing a seat was that he "will be no longer be treating my patients and I think the feeling is mutual. I have mostly an elderly population - people with complex illnesses. "To move into an area looking after people in a different way will be strange for me, but I feel I can do it and I feel that we have a message that is worth fighting for," he added. In Galway West, Catherine Connolly, a former member of the Labour Party, took a seat as an Independent. Ms Connolly left Labour in 2006 after she had not been put on the ticket with Michael D Higgins for the election the following year. She has ruled out a return to the Labour Party. She said that she was delighted to win a seat, having lost out by such a small margin last time out. "I think it is also revolutionary to put an Independent female TD in the Dail for the first time from this constituency on the anniversary of 1916. "I'm looking forward to representing the people of Galway, the Aran Islands, Connemara, south Mayo and all the other areas," she said. In Cork South West, Michael Collins dislodged sitting Fine Gael TD Noel Harrington to take a seat. Mr Collins said he felt that his election sent a message to the political parties and he vowed to be the Healy-Rae of west Cork. "This is a massive victory for the people of west Cork, who have been ignored for far to long. "I want to do for west Cork what the Healy-Raes have done for Kerry and I promise I will work tirelessly to achieve this up in Dail Eireann," he said. Former property developer Mick Wallace also secured his seat in Wexford but did not take the massive vote which saw him top the poll in 2011. Elsewhere, Mr Wallace's parliamentary colleague Clare Daly also won her seat in Dublin Fingal, as did Denis Naughton in Roscommon-Galway, Noel Grealish in Galway West and Maureen O'Sullivan in Dublin Central. Eamon O Cuiv said doing a deal with Fine Gael would fly in the face of everything they stated they would do on the hustings Fianna Fail leader Micheal Martin has been warned to resist the temptation of entering coalition with Fine Gael amid fears the move will facilitate the growth of Sinn Fein. Senior Fianna Fail TDs are fervently opposed to the idea of a 'grand coalition' and instead favour the prospect of supporting a minority Fine Gael government on a case-by-case basis. Some of Mr Martin's closest lieutenants have also rejected suggestions that a failure to enter coalition with Fine Gael will leave the party open to criticism from voters. "This whole claim that we will be hammered for not acting in the national interest is bulls***," said one senior party source. "When we acted in the 'national interest' before and voted through billions of euro worth of cuts, what happened? We got hammered." Another deputy close to Mr Martin said supporting Fine Gael on a case-by-case basis, similar to what happened in the late 1980s, would allow Fianna Fail to dictate when the next election will be. "It would mean we could pull the plug if we wanted," said the source. And a Fianna Fail strategist said the party is comfortable with Taoiseach Enda Kenny trying to "cobble together" a government propped up by Independents. "Fine Gael will have about 10 seats more than Fianna Fail, remember. Preventing the rise of the hard left and Sinn Fein is working in the national interest," said the source. Mr Martin is due back in Dublin early this week, when he will hold discussions with his key advisers. A meeting of the parliamentary party is likely to be held next week. Several TDs yesterday publicly ruled out the idea of doing business with Fine Gael. TDs Willie O'Dea and Eamon O Cuiv said they had serious doubts such a proposal would be approved by delegates at an Ard Fheis. Mr O Cuiv said doing a deal with Fine Gael would fly in the face of everything they stated they would do on the hustings. "I certainly wouldn't advocate it because I believe your word is your bond. And we said that quite clearly in this election, and we fought this election on the basis that we weren't going with Fine Gael. "People get cynical about politics when people say one thing in an election and do the opposite and that's one of the prices that Labour have paid," he told reporters. "The second thing is of course this has to go to an Ard Fheis of the party, and certainly we were getting the word from our own members in particular who were canvassing. The people who were doing all of the hard work for the party, the people who are the party, at the end of the day. "But the party belongs to the ordinary person who pays the 20 a year, like I do. "They were sending a very clear message that they wanted us to pursue our policies, that they would see us being totally incompatible with Fine Gael policies," he added. Mayo TD Dara Calleary was also categorical in ruling out a Fine Gael/Fianna Fail government. "I'll be very strong in saying I don't think we should be going into government with Fine Gael," he said following his election yesterday. The party's General Secretary Sean Dorgan echoed the remarks on TV3's election programme last night. But one of Fianna Fail's newly elected TD, Pat Casey of Wicklow, said he is open to such a scenario, although with conditions. "I think it has to be looked at. We can't rule anything out. "We have to act responsibly and we need to sit down and look at what's on the table and what's off the table. There are differences between the two parties so they would have to be overcome," he said. "I've no real objection to it but this is not for the parliamentary party to decide. "It is actually for the full membership of the party," he added. But in an apparent swipe at Fianna Fail, junior finance minister Simon Harris called on other parties to "act like adults". He criticised parties who he said are so "quick" to dismiss entering government. Sports Minister Michael Ring also said there is an obligation to those elected to try and form a government. Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams and councillor Imelda Munster are lifted by supporters after being elected. Photo: Reuters Sinn Fein has significantly increased the party's seats in Leinster House, despite the wide range of controversies surrounding Gerry Adams throughout the election campaign. It was on course last night to add 10 new TDs to its parliamentary party, bringing the number of Dail seats it holds to around 24. Exit polls showed that the party took around 14pc of the national vote. However, this was significantly off the 26pc vote predicted in opinion polls last year. Despite this, Mr Adams yesterday claimed that his party secured "more or less" the seat numbers it had expected to get before the election. Mr Adams was put front and centre by Sinn Fein during the election campaign but was involved in a number of high-profiled public gaffes, which stalled the party's popularity. The Sinn Fein leader struggled with questions on his plans to abolish anti-terrorism laws, which legislate for the Special Criminal Court. Mr Adams's grasp of economics was also exposed during a series of 'car-crash' interviews, in which he became confused when setting out Sinn Fein's policies on tax, pensions and Irish Water. His relationship with convicted tax cheat Thomas 'Slab' Murphy, who was sentenced to 18 months in prison on election day, also caused huge problems for the party during the election campaign. After the General Election, senior Sinn Fein members launched bizarre attacks on the media over the reporting of Murphy's tax fraud case and on the courts for imprisoning the former IRA chief for cheating the State out of 189,000. Soon after successfully contesting her seat in Dublin Central, Sinn Fein deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald suggested that reporting on the conviction of Murphy for tax fraud was politically motivated and that the case was only highlighted because of an election - despite the courts having set the date for the case. Northern Ireland's Deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness also launched a staunch defence of Murphy and attacked the Special Criminal Court's decision to sentence him on the day of the election count. Mr McGuinness said that throughout the trial Murphy and the people of south Armagh had been subjected to an unfair level of accusation. "I think it's not lost on the electorate out there, who watched the shenanigans that took place during the course of the election and how different decisions were made, and I think those decisions were made to have an impact on the election and that is totally and absolutely undemocratic," Mr McGuinness said. He added: "Many people have been asking questions as to why Tom Murphy was brought before the Special Criminal Court, for basically failing to pay taxes allegedly on a part-time wage. "I think the level of accusation that was placed before, not just him, but the people of south Armagh, in the course of this case was absolutely deplorable." Newly elected Sinn Fein TD John Brady said media criticism of Gerry Adams would not result in Sinn Fein deciding "to ditch" him as leader. The Wicklow TD criticised negative campaigning against his party when asked about the 'Slab' Murphy controversy. "Obviously, everyone has to pay their taxes," Mr Brady said. "I wonder why there isn't the same focus on all political parties, even though Slab is no member of Sinn Fein or anything like that. "He's a republican but there are other members of political parties who have been in similar positions and haven't paid." Other successful candidates included Sinn Fein senator David Cullinane, who took a seat in Waterford, and Kathleen Funchion, who won in Carlow/Kilkenny. Party strategist and South Dublin councillor Eoin O Broin took a seat, as expected, in Dublin Mid-West. Another first-time election candidate, Donnchadh O Laoghaire, secured a seat in Cork South Central. Other first-time TDs include Pat Buckley in Cork East, Louise Reilly in Dublin Fingal and Carol Nolan in Offaly. The extra seats won by Sinn Fein in the General Election came at the expense of senior Coalition TDs in both Fine Gael and Labour. Fianna Fails Dara Calleary and Lisa Chambers celebrate her win at the expense of Taoiseach Enda Kennys running mate, outgoing TD Michelle Mulherin, at the Castlebar Count Centre in Mayo. Photo: Gerry Mooney The country faces the prospect of being run by a caretaker government for months as Fine Gael and Fianna Fail struggle to deal with the fall-out of an unprecedented election result. The deposed Coalition, including ministers who were dumped by voters, will meet as early as tomorrow to discuss how to continue in power despite their losses. A stalemate situation is developing as Taoiseach Enda Kenny attempts to buy time for his leadership, and a resurgent Fianna Fail assesses whether it should risk supporting a minority government. Strategists Senior strategists in both parties accept a new government will not be formed by the time the Dail meets on March 10 to elect a Taoiseach. Mr Kenny and Tanaiste Joan Burton spoke by phone yesterday and agreed to hold an urgent Cabinet meeting, that will include James Reilly and Alex White, who have lost their seats. Fine Gael will be the largest party in the new Dail with 52 seats, followed by Fianna Fail which is likely to finish on 43. The Labour Party will have just seven TDs, including Ms Burton, who held on in Dublin West but now faces serious leadership questions. Many Fine Gael members are also privately saying Mr Kenny has to go after the party lost 20 seats on its last general election result. Non-party candidates are on course to make up one-tenth of the Dail as a raft of new Independent TDs prepares to enter Leinster House for the first time. Counting was continuing in five constituencies late last night, but it is expected that the full make-up of the 32nd Dail will be known by this afternoon. THE VOTES Are IN: Fianna Fail Leader Micheal Martin celebrates at the general election 2016 count at the City Hall in Cork. Photo: Chris Radburn Labour Party deputy leader Alan Kelly celebrates with supporters at the count centre in Thurles after he won the last seat in the Tipperary constituency. Photo: Frank McGrath NEW FORCE: Social Democrats founders Stephen Donnelly (pictured), Roisin Shortall and Catherine Murphy all retained their seats, while Lucinda Creighton lost hers on the fifth count in Dublin Bay South Fianna Fail Leader Micheal Martin (right) and Michael McGrath (left) celebrate at the general election 2016 count at the City Hall in Cork Former minister James Reilly admitted he had to make some fairly repugnant decisions Lucinda Creighton of Renua Ireland at the count in the RDS. Photo: Tom Burke THERE were many winners and losers in Election 2016 - but who are the biggest? The Losers Enda Kenny Expand Close Taoiseach Enda Kenny / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Taoiseach Enda Kenny Just weeks ago Enda Kenny was on the cusp of being the first Fine Gael Taoiseach ever to win re-election, but what a distant dream that now must seem now for the Mayo man. The party's support, consistently appearing between 27pc and 30pc in most polls will now limp to just above 25pc - with seat losses well into double digits. While party members are pointing the finger at an unclear message and a Dublin-focussed campaign, ultimately the blame will fall squarely on the shoulders of the Taoiseach. While no party won the election, Fine Gael most certainly lost it. Kenny's leadership will now be under the most pressure since the ill-fated heave against him in 2010. Lucinda Creighton Expand Close Lucinda Creighton of Renua Ireland at the count in the RDS. Photo: Tom Burke / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Lucinda Creighton of Renua Ireland at the count in the RDS. Photo: Tom Burke How the tables have turned for the once golden child of Fine Gael. Just five years ago the Dubliner was being spoken of as a potential future leader her then party with other young guns such as Leo Varadkar and Simon Coveney - now her political career lies in tatters. While many did not agree with her view, she won praise from all quarters when she lost the party whip after voting against the Protection of life during pregnancy bill in 2013. She attempted to steer that momentum and growing dissatisfaction with the government into political capital, launching her own party - Renua -in 2015. However after a disastrous party launch with a confused message, Renua was on the back foot from the off. The electorate returned no TDs from the Lucinda-centric party, surely assuring the party will not see its second birthday next month. Colm Keaveney Expand Close Colm Keaveney / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Colm Keaveney Elected as a Labour TD in 2011, the Galway native sensationally joined Fianna Fail in 2013. He claimed the party had 'learned from its mistakes in the past', despite a chorus of claims his move was political opportunism at its worst. Despite the resurgence of Fianna Fail in Friday's poll, Mr Keaveney was the only sitting Fianna Fail TD to lose his seat. Some of his former Labour colleagues will be happy with his failure, both for his opportunism when quitting the party - and the fact its one less lost seat in their column. James Reilly Expand Close Former minister James Reilly admitted he had to make some fairly repugnant decisions / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Former minister James Reilly admitted he had to make some fairly repugnant decisions The deputy leader of Fine Gael and Minister for Children was the highest profile casualty in Election 2016. Reilly shot to prominence during the 2007-2011 Dail term when his tough and well-informed marking of then Minister for Health Mary Harney caught even the former PD leader by surprise. On the back of the massive success of Fine Gael in 2011 he was immediately installed the role he had held to such high standards during his term in opposition. However the grass must have looked very much greener on the opposition benches as he stumbled from one crisis to another in the maligned department. He suffered the indignity of being moved from the department during the 2014 reshuffle, assuming the far less prominent role of Minister for Children. He becomes the only deputy leader of one of the main political parties to lose their seat. The former GP will now be examining his options after losing his seat in Fingal. Alex White Expand Close Former Communication Minister and Labour TD Alex White / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Former Communication Minister and Labour TD Alex White Perhaps the most high profile Labour loss was that of Communications Minister Alex White. Already facing an uphill battle due to constituency changes, the collapse of the Labour party vote saw the Minister sent packing. Just two years ago White entered a leadership contest against Tanaiste Joan Burton, off the back of which he gained a seat in cabinet. He had 8,524 first preference votes in 2011, however saw that halved this year to 4,048. The Winners The Healy-Raes Expand Close Danny Healy-Rae in celebratory mood with his brother Michael. Photo: Eamonn Keogh / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Danny Healy-Rae in celebratory mood with his brother Michael. Photo: Eamonn Keogh The Kerry political dynasty pulled off what many thought impossible, and saw two brothers elected in the five seater. Michael and Danny now have more seats than the entire Renua party, and should ensure not a single pothole appears in the Kingdom during this Dail term. Stephen Donnelly Expand Close NEW FORCE: Social Democrats founders Stephen Donnelly (pictured), Roisin Shortall and Catherine Murphy all retained their seats, while Lucinda Creighton lost hers on the fifth count in Dublin Bay South / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp NEW FORCE: Social Democrats founders Stephen Donnelly (pictured), Roisin Shortall and Catherine Murphy all retained their seats, while Lucinda Creighton lost hers on the fifth count in Dublin Bay South One of the three joint leaders of the Social Democrats, Donnelly saw a massive increase in his first preference vote to top the poll in Wicklow. Praised for his performance in the leaders' debate, Donnelly saw his vote more than double from 6,530 to 14,348. His co-leaders Catherine Murphy and Roisin Shorthall also topped the polls in their respective constituencies, however the party did not manage to have any other candidates elected. Alan Kelly Expand Close Labour Party deputy leader Alan Kelly celebrates with supporters at the count centre in Thurles after he won the last seat in the Tipperary constituency. Photo: Frank McGrath / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Labour Party deputy leader Alan Kelly celebrates with supporters at the count centre in Thurles after he won the last seat in the Tipperary constituency. Photo: Frank McGrath While his celebration may have suggested he was just elected supreme emperor of the world, the Minister for the Environment managed to retain his seat in the staunchly anti-government Tipperary constituency. In what was a dire day for his party, Alan 'AK47' Kelly's victory in the tough constituency was no easy feat. The man who claimed power suited him could now be on the verge of spear-heading the rebuilding of the Labour party as Tanaiste Joan Burton's position becomes untenable in the eyes of many. Micheal Martin Expand Close Fianna Fail Leader Micheal Martin (right) and Michael McGrath (left) celebrate at the general election 2016 count at the City Hall in Cork / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Fianna Fail Leader Micheal Martin (right) and Michael McGrath (left) celebrate at the general election 2016 count at the City Hall in Cork The Fianna Fail leader oversaw a spectacular turnaround in fortunes for his party, left on the verge of collapse after a savaging in the 2011 poll. After leading the campaign and strong performances in the leaders debates, the Cork man also dispelled any doubts from within his party over his leadership. However the celebrations may be short lived, as he will now be forced to negotiate the deadly waters of government formation, and the possible unthinkable coalition with Fine Gael. Heather Humphreys Expand Close Heritage Minister Heather Humphreys. Photo: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Heritage Minister Heather Humphreys. Photo: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie The Minister for the Arts and Heritage bucked the trend for her party and actually increased her vote from the 2011 election. Humphreys also joined Taoiseach Enda Kenny and Minister for Justice Frances Fitzgerald as one of only three government TDs re-elected on the first count. She increased her first preference vote from 8,144 in 2011 to 12,391 this year. Who do you think are the biggest winners and losers in the 2016 election? Let us know in the comments below. The country will be run by a caretaker government for months as Fine Gael and Fianna Fail struggle to deal with the fallout of an unprecedented election result. The deposed coalition, including ministers who were dumped by voters, will meet as early as tomorrow to discuss how to continue in power despite their losses. Environment Minister Alan Kelly's passionate reaction to being re-elected was a rare moment of jubilation on what was a dire day for the Labour party. Members now face a tense wait in Dublin Bay north in on a result which will determine if the party ends the election with six or seven seats. Expand Close Taoiseach Enda Kenny is greeted by well-wishers as he arrives at the Royal Theatre in Castlebar, Co Mayo. Photo: PA / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Taoiseach Enda Kenny is greeted by well-wishers as he arrives at the Royal Theatre in Castlebar, Co Mayo. Photo: PA The party needs seven seats to hold automatic speaking rights in the Dail. A stalemate situation is developing as Taoiseach Enda Kenny attempts to 'buy time' for his leadership, and Micheal Martin assesses whether he should risk supporting a minority government. Both parties accept that a new government will not be formed by the time the Dail meets on March 10. Mr Kenny and Tanaiste Joan Burton spoke by phone yesterday and agreed to hold an urgent Cabinet meeting that will include James Reilly and Alex White, who have lost their seats. Fianna Fail sources say Mr Martin is in "no panic" to talk with other parties about potential coalition options, although it is likely that he will be proposed as Taoiseach when the first Dail convenes. His party has more than doubled its seats but will still be about 10 seats behind Fine Gael once all the ballots are counted. "We will wait until the dust settles. It's a really good result for Fianna Fail but the onus is still on Fine Gael to make the first move. The obligation is on them," said one party source. Together, Fine Gael and Fianna Fail will have more than the 80 seats needed for a coalition, but working together will be difficult for both parties. Speculation is also rife within Fine Gael that Enda Kenny's term as leader of the party is coming to an end after a disastrous result that saw them lose more than 20 seats. He has indicated that he will remain on as Taoiseach in the national interest until a new government is formed. Deadlock Ms Burton said she would support the re-election of Mr Kenny as Taoiseach if that was proposed on March 10 - but acknowledged that deadlock was likely. In that event, President Michael D Higgins may request the outgoing government to stay on for a further period of time until a government can be formed. Fine Gael's director of elections Brian Hayes told the Irish Independent that coalition talks would take months. "This is going to be a very complicated, slow but public process over the next few months," he said. "The Irish electorate have thrown up a result that we now have to interpret and understand. "We said we wouldn't go in with Fianna Fail, they said they wouldn't go in with us. That is the de facto position so if people are going to move from positions like that, it's going to take time." Mr Hayes said Fine Gael had lost the election and there was now a "fundamental responsibility" for all parties to talk to each other. "I'm very much opposed to this idea that we can in some way go back to the electorate and say 'let's have another election please because we don't like the result'. That's utter nonsense. The people have spoken," he said. Fianna Fail were keen to play down the idea of a 'grand coalition' with Fine Gael, which Mr Martin repeatedly ruled out during the election campaign. The party's General Secretary Sean Dorgan said "enormous difference" existed between the two parties and politicians needed to "assess what's happened". "There's a very clear message being sent from the electorate, parliament now needs to take its responsibility very seriously. "The days with a massive majority are over," he said. "We're Europeanising our government. I think Micheal Martin will be proposed as Taoiseach on March 10 but it's not as simple as two plus two is four." Sinn Fein Leader Gerry Adams has ruled out getting into government in the 32nd Dail. Mr Adams visited the RDS the afternoon to lend his support to fellow Sinn Fein candidate Denise Mitchell who is competing in Dublin Bay North constituency. He told journalists gathered there that he felt that his party alongside the Right2Change candidates had not secured enough seats to get into government. We sought a mandate to be in government and we have a desire to be in government it doesnt look as though we have the numbers to get into government, he said. Mr Adams did maintain that he would continue to consult with other members of the Right2Change movement and his own party about potential next steps following the historic election. Were sitting on 22 seats, were very pleased with our performance essentially we fought the election to get rid of the Fine Gael Labour coalition and they have been rejected. I think the big indication from this election - while its a work in progress - is that that process of change is continuing. Whether in opposition or in government well stick by our mandate, continue to push the process of change which is under way, he added. The Louth TD denied that the campaign had been a failed one for the party he pointed to the increase in seats the party had gotten and the increase in spread of their support nationally. Mr Adams wouldnt speculate on whether or not the election had been his last chance to become Taoiseach saying, Im not vainglorious like that what we are is a group of republican activists who have a mandate and have increased [our seats] and onwards and upwards. Father Crossan told the newspaper: 'It was just the one night and that was it. I do not have an issue with drugs' A Northern Ireland priest accused of taking cocaine at his parochial house and displaying Nazi memorabilia has taken a leave of absence from the priesthood. Allegations were made over the weekend in a Sunday newspaper that Father Stephen Crossan (37) had snorted cocaine at a party on the grounds of St Patrick's Church in Banbridge last July. A video of the incident was also uploaded onto the newspaper's website. In the short video Father Crossan is seen at a house party being handed a rolled-up 10 note. He can be heard saying "I shouldn't" before snorting what's believed to be cocaine from a plate. Pictures were also published of Nazi memorabilia including a golden eagle with a swastika on a mantlepiece and a Second World War German officer's hat. Father Crossan told the newspaper: It was just the one night and that was it. I do not have an issue with drugs. He continued: Im no Nazi. I collect historical stuff. Theres stuff there from every country. Fr Crossan added that he was on sick leave with depression at the time, had since left the church but was being supported by the Parish. An unnamed source told the newspaper: "The house was lovely but we were stunned to see the Nazi stuff. It was all over the house. At one point Stephen put on a cap and did the Nazi salute. Its shocking. Hes supposed to be an upstanding member of society. He shouldnt be taking drugs. The Bishop of Dromore, Dr John McAreavey, said in a statement he had "no knowledge of the incident" but confirmed Stephen Crossan was now taking an "extended leave from the Priesthood." He added he would pray for Stephen and "whatever issues he is facing at the moment". Dr McAreavey added he was concerned for his health and would pray and support him "through whatever issues he is facing at the moment". He confirmed that in May 2015 Fr Crossan, a curate in the Diocese of Dromore, was granted leave from pastoral duties in Seapatrick Parish on health grounds. Since that time he has received counselling "whilst also considering his own future". At the start of February, Fr Crossan informed the Bishop he wished to take an extended leave of absence from the priesthood. A letter from Fr Crossan was read out at Masses in Seapatrick parish on the weekend of February 14. In it, he said: "Following a period of reflection, I have decided to take an extended leave of absence from the priestly ministry. "I would like to thank Canon Stevenson and the people of Seapatrick parish for their kindness to me during my time in Banbridge. "I wish you all every blessing for the future. I would ask you to keep me in your prayers." It's understood that he has now completely vacated the parochial house in Banbridge, as well as the pastoral and ministerial aspects of his role. Thomas 'Slab' Murphy is to be offered educational programmes as he enters his first full week in prison. He spent the weekend in his own cell in the Midlands Prison in Portlaoise, where killers Graham Dwyer and Mark Nash are also serving sentences. He was transferred from the Special Criminal Court to Portlaoise Prison on Friday, in accordance with a procedure for all prisoners who are found guilty in the non-jury court. Murphy (66) spent less than an hour in Portlaoise Prison before he was transferred to the Midlands Prison. The move means that the alleged former IRA chief-of-staff is being kept away from prisoners with paramilitary links, who are normally kept in Portlaoise Prison. The Irish Prison Service said it does not comment on individual prisoners, but a source confirmed that Murphy will not receive any special treatment. "He might be high profile in the media but in terms of the prisoners, he is a normal prisoner who was brought in for fraud. "Prisoners in Portlaoise don't consider themselves to be criminals. They see themselves as political prisoners. "The likes of the IRA, while it is criminal activity - they don't deem themselves to be criminals, despite being in jail for it. They see themselves as prisoners of war or political prisoners." Murphy, now prisoner 102444, was found guilty on nine counts of failing to file tax returns between 1996 and 2004 and received an 18-month sentence. "Because of his links to the IRA he had to be done in the Special Criminal Court. He has not been done for terrorist activity or things like that, he is in for fraud. Upon arriving he was given an outline of how his day will pan out and what will be available to him," the source said. A stowaway made a 'distressed' call to gardai from the back of a truck, alerting them to the presence of nine Kurdish refugees who were found huddled in the lorry after entering the port of Rosslare. "We got a 999 call to the Wexford Garda station from someone who couldn't speak English well, saying 'help'," a Garda source told the Irish Independent. Gardai traced the call to a lorry that had arrived on a ferry from Cherbourg, France, and found nine men, all aged in their 20s, huddled in the back of the airtight trailer. None of them were able to speak English, prompting gardai to enlist the help of interpreters. It is understood the men had been in the trailer for up to two days before making the ferry crossing. The men have been identified as Kurds who are believed to hail from northern Iraq. Eight of the nine will be making applications as asylum seekers, while one man has been detained for questioning at New Ross Garda Station in connection with alleged immigration offences. Despite the cramped conditions and limited oxygen supply in the trailer, the men were all found to be well after being taken to Waterford Regional Hospital for a medical assessment on Saturday night. "They've been taken to a place of safety and their identities have been established," said a Garda spokesperson. The driver of the Irish lorry is also being questioned in connection with the incident as part of a routine investigation. Verona Murphy, president of the Irish Road Haulage Association, said she had yet to learn whether the driver is a member of her organisation. However, she said the plight of Irish lorry drivers who are unwittingly caught up in people smuggling, or who find migrants stowing away in their vehicles after embarking on a cross-channel crossing from Calais to Dover in the UK, had now reached a crisis stage. Four Irish hauliers were hit with fines of 54,000 (68,525) in November alone after authorities from the UK Border Force found 'clandestine' stowaways in their vehicles. Aside from the cost to innocent hauliers, which is threatening many of their livelihoods, Ms Murphy said that finding stowaways in their trailers was very traumatic for drivers. "It's very disturbing for the driver, who would be confronted by nine migrants and God knows what state they're in," she said. Ms Murphy said hauliers were doing everything possible to prevent stowaways sneaking on board their vehicles. It is the job of border patrol agents in France and the UK to check for illegal migrants and stowaways and they are not doing their jobs properly if migrants are getting through, she said. "We are doing everything possible but the border agents are there and they're not doing their jobs," said Ms Murphy, adding that she is to meet with the EU Transport Commissioner this week to discuss the ongoing problem. The Immigrant Council of Ireland said the first priority for the asylum seekers was that they be "treated with humanity" after their ordeal and that they get proper medical, legal and immigration advice. James Martin and Joe Hall at the 10th Tedfest on Inis Mor island, Co Galway, at the weekend. Photo: Hany Marzouk After three days of high jinks on Inis Mor, this year's Tedfest ended on a sombre note as fans of 'Father Ted' learned of the passing of the legendary Frank Kelly. Organiser Peter Phillips said festival goers were devastated by the news and yesterday raised a glass to their hero on the final day of the event. "Father Jack will go down as one of the most famous Irish television characters of all time," he said. "A couple of years ago we were looking at bringing him out to do a guest appearances but we couldn't get the dates and times to work. "It was poignant that he died on the same day that Dermot Morgan died so many years ago. Tedfest is always on the last weekend of February, and the reason we do it is because it coincides with Father Ted's passing." Phillips said Kelly would be fondly remembered and sadly missed. "It's terribly sad news, a lot of people associate 'Father Ted' with Fr Jack. He was a very good character actor and we will raise a glass to him." Among the hundreds of fans who travelled to the Aran Islands for this year's festival were German Doris Gerth and her partner, Australian John Bottrell, who met at last year's Tedfest. Both had lost their spouses five years earlier and had little inkling they would find love on this Craggy Island. Gerth, from Cologne, said she was a late newcomer to both Ireland and 'Father Ted'. "'Father Ted' was recommended to me because it was never on German TV. I watched it and I couldn't stop because it was so funny," she said. She returned to Inis Mor with Bottrell at the weekend to celebrate the anniversary of their first meeting. "We met on my first day of Tedfest last year. We talked and we had the same interest of photography, and we both like to travel a lot," explained Gerth. "His wife passed away the same year that my husband passed away too. "Me and John decided to meet in Dublin after last year's festival, and when we said goodbye we were really good friends. But we sent a lot of emails and that was how it worked. "I have been to Australia three times already, and John is coming to Germany this year too. And we will spend a couple of years in Europe travelling around," she added. For Bottrell, this was his fourth Tedfest. "I come from Perth every year for it...I have always been a fan of 'Father Ted'. "Myself and Doris met here in Ti Joe Watty's, she walked in the room and I noticed her straight away. I went up to her and asked her would she like a pint. And now we have both found a new life after losing our partners." A union has warned Tesco it will ballot its more than 14,000-strong workforce for industrial action if it forges ahead with plans to cut some workers' pay. Mandate has written to the supermarket chain warning that it could face strikes if it refuses to reach agreement on plans to move almost 1,000 long-serving staff onto a new contract, with worse terms and conditions. It said the company has informed it that it wants to implement the new contracts by April 18. The Tesco workers face a pay cut of over 16pc, the loss of guaranteed overtime and a bonus under the plan. "We've clearly told the company that if it seeks to impose these changes on any date in the future without the agreement of our members, we would immediately move to defend the interests of our members, which would mean a ballot," said assistant general secretary Gerry Light. Meanwhile, 200 Brinks workers meet on Wednesday to decide whether to cut their losses with a redundancy package or battle for their jobs. The company has offered a severance payment worth three weeks' pay on top of statutory redundancy. Staff face redundancy between now and July. They will direct their union to try and improve the exit package or attempt to enter talks with the company to save jobs through cost-cutting measures. Time for me: Alison Canavan, with her son James, has gone through five years of painful self-discovery, but she says she is now in a much happier place in life. Photo: David Conachy Alison Canavan started modelling when she was 15. By the time she was 17, she was modelling in Paris, Milan and London. By her 23rd birthday, she was working for Ford Models in New York, living in a penthouse on Central Park West, and was in a stormy seven-year relationship with an American businessman. "We broke up just after Christmas," she says, "six years ago." Alison came home to Castleknock and her family "to heal my heart". It was only meant to be a short stay in Dublin. All these years later, Alison is still here. What kept her here was perhaps the intricate nature of the situation: in short, when Alison arrived in Dublin from New York in Christmas, 2010, she was unaware that she carrying her ex's child on the Aer Lingus plane home. Alison has dedicated her new book, Minding Mum: It's Time To Take Care Of You, "to an angel that was sent to me. His name is James Joseph Canavan. He was born on 16 September 2010 in The Coombe Hospital in Dublin and he saved my life." To the outsider, Alison didn't at times seem very good at minding herself. . . Alison says she doesn't want to talk about her ex. She will say, however, that they sadly split up in January, 2010, for "the reasons everyone breaks up for. It just wasn't working. I was pretty heart-broken." Expand Expand Previous Next Close Model Alison Canavan with her son James in 2012 Model Alison Canavan with her son James in 2012 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Model Alison Canavan with her son James in 2012 "I didn't know I was pregnant," she adds. "I wasn't feeling well. My mum just said to me, 'I want you home.' Because I was so upset. So I went to my own doctor here, who has been my doctor my whole life - he is actually Leo Varadkar's dad." When Alison discovered she was pregnant, she was "absolutely terrified. My first thought was just complete and utter shock." Because it was unplanned? "I was on the Pill. And we were being careful and doing all the things. You know what?" she says in a slightly American twang. "This is a journey for me when all my preconceived ideas and notions and judgements, I suppose, about someone getting pregnant, went out a Manhattan penthouse window." Alison explains that before, she might have thought, unfairly, of a woman who had an unplanned pregnancy - "How does that happen? Is she not smart enough?" For Alison, finding out she was pregnant was the start of a hard process of learning, understanding and self-acceptance. "My family were very supportive," Alison, who was born March 7, 1978, in the Rotunda, says referring to her four sisters, Jennifer, Laura, Grace, and Kate, and their mother Margaret. "So I decided I was staying in Dublin. Going back to New York city was not an option." Expand Close Alison Canavan with son James at Dublin Zoo in 2012 / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Alison Canavan with son James at Dublin Zoo in 2012 Was there ever an option to get back with her ex following the birth of the child? "No. No. Absolutely not. For loads of reasons. We broke up for the right reasons. It was something that we had tried to work on over the years. It wasn't working. And babies don't fix those things. In fact, babies can make those things worse. So I had to look after myself for the first time in my life." Alison says she spent her pregnancy focussing on being healthy and being positive through meditation and suchlike. "I didn't want my negative energy or anything I was going through to be passed on to the baby. That, of course, comes at a price. . ." What was the price? "I suffered very bad post-natal depression and my world fell apart. You push things down." "When you have children," she continues, "we are solely focussed on the children. It is baby, baby, baby. And I think that has come at a cost. I think we need to focus on mums. It makes sense to me that if we focus on mum being healthy and happy, then the baby will automatically be healthy and happy. So my main feelings were of being absolutely terrified," Alison says going back to the time of being pregnant and single. "I was completely uncertain about my future. I was going, 'How did this happen to me?'" One of Ireland's most feted models used this time - however frightening - productively: she reflected on her life and her dreams. At that stage in her life, she felt, "I was supposed to be married with 2.4 children, living this really happy life." Alison had always expected to be married and to be in a stable relationship to bring up children. She blamed herself for being in a turbulent relationship with her ex. She believes now that "in the last year and a half, probably, I have really started to heal. I am in a completely different place now." I say to Alison that I'm shocked that it is only in the last year or so that she has reached a happier place in her life. So, she went through five years of pain prior to this? "Five years of painful discovery. But different stages of painful discovery. I think that journey, though, has been happening throughout my life." "I was in an industry," she says, meaning modelling, "where I was constantly looking for happiness - like most of us are in our lives. I was in an industry where I thought happiness was in the big job in the next big city," she says. "And every time I did get a big gig in New York, it was kind of like you got a glimpse into this world of happiness. Or so I thought. "Then if I wasn't happy in New York, I went down to Miami for a month or over to LA. I just kind of kept hopping from place to another. I kept trying to find this elusive happiness that just kept slipping through my fingers." Alison believes her job gave her "the ability to run away from my problems. I didn't have to deal with problems. I think I started suffering from depression and had anxiety issues [from an early age.] "A lot of people have said to me, 'Do you think modelling and partying caused your problems?' No, modelling and partying gave me the ability to deal with my problems and run away from them. Not the other way around." Was it almost like as one of Ireland's top models - with an international career and lifestyle to match - she somehow expected to have the perfect life? "I don't think there is such a thing as the perfect life," she says. "I thought we all expect, though, what we have been taught equals happiness: the money, the house, the partner. "In the Western world, we're taught that what's outside of ourselves is what brings us happiness: as soon as you achieve your college degree, you meet the person you love etc and you do all these things that are eventually going to make you happy," she says - "instead of teaching our children about self-love and accepting yourself and being content with yourself." In Minding Mum, Alison writes that she imagined that her "wedding would be big, but not ridiculous. We would have an old country-style house as well as our apartment in NYC, as that's where I lived. We would have the best of both worlds. But sometimes life has a different plan, and now I am writing this book in a park in Dublin instead of Central Park in New York." Mystifyingly, Alison can get the big book deal, but cannot find a man. Nor does she have great expectations in the future boyfriend/husband department. "Just someone who is kind to me and whom I can have fun with. Someone who accepts me for who I am." And who is that? "I'm not the model. I'd like someone to give me the chance to get to know me and not sit down in front of me with a preconceived idea of 'She's a model and she's this and that' and have it in their head already what they think I am. That's kind of what's happened with the couple of men [she's been on dates with.] "I thought I had a lovely date with a guy I knew from New York late last summer. It went really well and we had a great laugh. Then I got a text message the next day saying something along the lines of, 'Oh, I'd say you expect me to take you here, there and everywhere?'" You don't mention marriage on dates, do you? I joke. "No I don't! Nor do I say: 'Oh, and I want another kid in a couple of weeks - can you help me out!'" she laughs. Does she wear six-inch heels on these dates? "Yes I do. 'Don't be frightened of me! I'm okay. I don't bite!'" she says putting on a voice directed at suitors who might feel a tad like Stuart Little - the charming young mouse from the movie of that name - upon meeting the leggy six foot Amazonian Dub. "I do not get asked out on dates. I go to balls and I never seem to meet anyone. "I'm open to help!" she laughs. "I'm still single. What's wrong with me? I hope nothing! I just work really, really hard. My focus really has been James and work." Is she that much of a head-wrecker that she can't get a man? I joke. "I know! I've gone on a couple of dates with guys. The conversation has turned to - now, remember, they don't know me but they know of me - 'Oh, I imagine you're really high maintenance.'" I ask her is she high-maintenance. "Not. At. All." "It couldn't be further from who I am. I am definitely not high-maintenance." We talk instead about self-maintenance. Minding Mum, Alison says, is "basically about self-care and understanding that you still need to mind yourself after you have a baby. I aim to help mums join their dots with their own health and well-being, understanding that looking after ourselves physically, emotionally and mentally is really important. There is great practical advice on nutrition, exercise, body-image, meditation, beauty, post-natal depression and much more." Far from bling Manhattan penthouses overlooking Central Park, Alison now lives in a cosy cottage in Castleknock with James. Up until five and a half years ago, she was still living in the family home with her mother. "That was another thing as well!" she hoots. "Imagine leaving home pretty much when you were 15 and working internationally as a model - and then being pregnant back in your bedroom." She can remember being "in the single bed - and the room was still fucking pink! I was going: 'What happened? How did this happen?" Whatever the reasons for how it all happened, Alison has brought up little James herself. That said, the situation, perhaps typically, leaves Alison with nothing but positive and philosophical thoughts. "What I have learned as a parent is that we have got to teach our children to understand what the word 'family' means. I think the word 'family 'has changed in so many ways. I think people who might perceive themselves to have the perfect family with 2.4 kids. They have no idea about tomorrow. They could separate. "They could lose their partner," says Alison who lost her father when she was 21. Tom died of cancer on May 18, 1999 in the Blackrock Clinic. "My Dad was the person who could fix anything," she says. "No matter where I was in the world he could save me almost like a superhero. When I lost him I lost that security and I don't think it gets easier. I think you just learn to adapt to those you love not being here anymore. There's a level of acceptance and growth as time goes by and you start to understand loss and grief but it can be painfully slow. Grief is a very individual journey and we all deal with it differently. Sometimes a song, a smell or a person can bring me right back to a time and a memory with dad but it can also bring me back to that place of pain." Does Alison think her father's death when she was still relatively young played a factor subconsciously in her future pain? "Everything in our life shapes us." Did she properly grieve her father's death? "No. I ran away. I did what I was really good at - I just got on a plane and I left. I probably drank through it, because I could. I don't drink any more." I ask her did she have a drink problem. "I wouldn't say I had a drink problem" is her answer. "I would say I used alcohol as a form of escapism, absolutely. I used it to escape. Partying was great fun and I was very good at it, and I was the life and soul of the party. I used it to help me numb my problems." What required numbing she believes was her depression and her anxiety. She never dealt with either issue because "nobody ever told me I had depression or anxiety. I always felt I was ungrateful." In hindsight, the signs that she was suffering from depression and anxiety were - "unexplainable lows. Feeling low all the time. I felt like I was in a bad mood all the time." The high priestess of Castleknock Zen, looking back, believes that the reason she was drawn to such a tempestuous relationship with the father of her child arguably was "because I was trying to fill a void within myself. When we are hurt, we tend to hurt ourselves. I was with him, on and off, for seven years. We broke up a few times because of the reason that we broke up finally in the end," she smiles. But there was good in the relationship too? "Of course, there was. There were great times. Really great times. We travelled together. We had great fun together. There were really, really happy times." Alison is very much a je-ne-regrette-rien kind of woman. "I don't believe in regrets. I am very grateful for all the things, bad and good, I've been through in the past few years. And as such," she smiles, "I've never been happier." 'Minding Mum: It's Time To Take Care Of You' is out now on Gill Books, price 16.99. Filthy Irish office spaces and unkempt desks are to blame for the rise in the number of people struck by cold and flu this winter, according to new research. The study found that one third of office workers feel their professional surroundings are unclean, while a shocking 70pc of people only clean their desks once every few months or not at all. The research conducted by office supplies company Viking found that only one in five office workers sneeze and cough into a hankie or tissue when they are feeling ill. The instances of cold and flu spread like wildfire through Irish office and the research found that 78pc of people come into work when they have a cold, despite putting their colleagues at risk of infection. Speaking of the surveys findings Michael Walby Director of Viking Ireland said: Cold and influenza viruses are highly contagious and we all know that prevention is better than cure. Lack of cleanliness and poor personal hygiene can create an environment where germs and bacteria can spread more easily. Meanwhile, a recent survey conducted in the UK found that only a large proportion of office workers do not wash their hands correctly after visiting the loo. The research revealed that men were the worst offenders with only 38pc washing their hands after visiting the loo. Women were more hygienic with 60pc of women washing their hands after the toilet. The study was carried out by pest control company Rentokil Initial and secretly investigated the hand washing rituals of over 10000 office workers using sensors on toilet doors and hand-washing dispensers. The company then revealed the dirty results to the workers via LCD monitors and found that public shaming improved the hand washing routines by 90pc in the week afterward before plateauing at an average of 82pc. Around this time of the year, those of you who have not been priced out of the health-insurance market will be getting renewal notices by post, and phone calls from well-trained policy sellers. Irish hospital insurance is no longer cheap, but it is competitive. I call it hospital insurance advisedly. Despite all the bells and whistles added on to gather your attention, it doesn't cover everyday medicines, or, indeed, much health in the community at all. The latest wheeze is the 24-hour helpline. Once staffed by 'qualified' nurses, there is now a move to give you a 'qualified' doctor at the other end of the line. I think we can see where this is going. In a few years' time, you will be offered a choice of 24/7 'qualified' consultants in all sorts of specialities on the phone. If the kids are hot, it will be a paediatrician. If Fido brings up his dinner, you'll get the telephone vet. But the elephant in the room is that medicine by mobile phone is not really medicine at all. Particularly when the person at the other end of the phone hasn't a clue who you are, or what your form is. First rule for practitioners offering telephone-based health advice is to cover the corporate gluteus maximus. Assuming they know it from their elbow. I'd rather switch my insurance to the company to come up with a granny line - a 24/7 wise old lady who has seen it all before. Or even a 'Trust Your Instincts' line which advises patients to go with their gut feeling and make their own choices. Much more useful than a clinical telephonist in mortal fear of a lawsuit. The vineyards of Newry are gearing up for a bumper year whenever Leo's public health (alcohol) bill gets enacted. This new legislation will push your cheapest bottle of plonk up to almost 9, which will make very pleasant Sainsbury's own-label wines at 4.50 each seem like excellent value. An old friend in County Clare has sent me another remedy, with plenty of recipes for creating your own wine. It's a famous book called Wild and Free - A Guide To Foraging In Ireland. Encouraging the use of the ingredients that nature provides freely, it was written by Kit O Ceirin and her late husband Cyril, and was first published almost 30 years ago. Wild and Free is now back in print, and it's available online from wolfhillpublishing.com. Home-made wines can be made using edible wild fruits and a few wild flowers, and the O Ceirins even describe how a group of nuns, who kept an old-folks home, used to brew Christmas wine using tea leaves. Beginners are advised to try traditional ingredients like apple, blackberry and elderflower. More advanced practitioners might try haw, furze and wild plums. Thirsty work, this book. We were discussing the temperament required of a good surgeon recently, and I mentioned the fact that when I once needed delicate surgery as a student, I picked a surgeon who played the oboe. It is arguably the most difficult instrument in the orchestra, and anyone with the patience to play, tune and carve their own reeds for this contraption, is a person to be trusted in a storm. It has been said that oboe beginners have to develop a thick hide because it takes years to get any kind of pleasant sound from it. And families of young oboists survive the formative years by developing thicker skin in front of their eardrums. Well, I had a letter from a nursing colleague asking whether the surgeon in question might have been the late Mr David Lane who passed away in October last. Indeed it was. She remembers him as a "great surgeon" who was very meticulous. Even when performing minor surgical procedures, he would always ask the patient if they had an allergy to iodine. She remembers hearing him playing the oboe at Sir Patrick Dun's Hospital in Dublin after his outpatient clinic had finished. She said that he also had his own views on how to choose the best surgeon for your case. He told nurses once that if he ever needed back surgery, he would choose a neurosurgeon, because they were much more conscious of the importance of the spinal cord than other carvers. An obituary to Mr Lane paid him the ultimate tribute as the "surgeon's surgeon". He is missed by generations of patients and doctors, and by his fellow musicians in the Dublin Baroque Players and RTE Symphony Orchestra. The nation is gearing up this year to remember 1916 with its Easter Rising and Battle of the Somme, but in our never-ending quest for military memories, other important anniversaries can be forgotten. One event took place in 1816 that had a profound effect on all diagnosis to this day. In that year, a young woman with heart disease was lying in bed at the Necker Hospital in Paris. She was so obese that neither placing a hand on her chest nor tapping out her ribs could elicit information about her heart. Her young doctor, Rene Laennec, felt a tad embarrassed about the prospect of placing his listening ear on her bosom, when he suddenly remembered a lecture on acoustics that described how the mere scratch of a pin could be heard distinctly at the other end of a tube. Using a folded cylinder of paper, he gave birth to the stethoscope. In the early days, the tube was wooden and there was just one earpiece instead of the modern two. It revolutionised the diagnosis of heart and lung ailments, and later became essential to the monitoring of blood pressure too. Dr Laennec didn't live to see much of its success. Though he became a professor of medicine and subsequently went on to give the name cirrhosis to liver disease and melanoma to a skin cancer, he died of tuberculosis at the age of 45. Dr Maurice Gueret is editor of the Irish Medical Directory drmauricegueret.com The Italians must love the Hemsley sisters I jest! The glam sisters from London have converted legions of cooks away from using pasta, and noodles as dinner staples and switch over to the world of spiralizing vegetables. Step forward the humble courgette, baby sister to the marrow which has leapt to rock star hero status among health-conscious consumers who reach for their spiralizer as quickly as their juicer and yoga mat, in order to cut raw veg into long julienne ribbons resembling spaghetti. Indeed, such has been the popularity of the Hemsleys' spiralizer (you can buy them at Brown Thomas) that Melissa and Jasmine carry the moniker of the 'Queens of Courgetti.' Building on the success of their first best seller, The Art of Eating Well, the siblings are off on a world tour to promote their new book, Good + Simple, taking in Europe, Australia and America. First stop is Dublin next Saturday for our Weekend magazine reader event where you can meet the sisters. Oh, and by the way, you can call them Mel and Jas. The Hemsleys leapfrogged around the place as kids as their dad, Jack, was in the army and they attended no less than 10 different schools. It was their Filipina mother, Evangelina, who instilled in them a love of preparing good food. "Eating well is one of the most important ways to keep in good health and it is also one of life's pleasures," says Jas (35) who was a model for 10 years, working with everyone from M&S, Oil of Ulay and The Body Shop to airlines like British Airways and Emirates. She then started her own business cooking for private clients, including a famous actor who she is too professional to name. Jas took her little sister's 'empty fridge' in hand and introduced Mel (30) to hearty, home-cooked food and broths. Out of this act of sisterly love, Mel's head was turned and she eventually gave up her career in branding and marketing and joined Jas as a private cook in people's houses. "We were doing that for two years underground and we didn't have a name and our clients called us their 'food fairies'," explains Jas. Word spread about their blog which they started five years ago and they were invited to write for British Vogue and The Guardian. "It was amazing because we were completely unknown. We had three followers on Facebook, probably our mum and our boyfriends, and nobody knew us. We were really surprised at how quickly people started sharing, it was very much word of mouth and social media. When we decided on Ebury to publish our first book, they said 'whatever you are doing, just keep doing it.'" Mel says, "For us, it was always important to stick to what we wanted to do which was to make healthy food really easy and simple for everyone, and fun too. We are self-taught cooks, Jasmine taught me, and we wanted people to be able to pick up the book, people who had never cooked a boiled egg in their life. Cooking food in a non-stressed way makes you feel good, sharing it with people you love makes you feel good too. People were waiting for books like this where you don't have to be a gourmet cook, you don't have to have lots of kit, you don't have to be able to chop fast and you can eat well every day." Rarely photographed publicly without each other at their side, the sisters say they aren't joined at the hip in daily life. They are funny, and opinionated, and don't appear to disagree about much. The nearest thing I can detect of a "kinda disagreement" came when they hung out at their mum's house in Surbiton at Christmas and Jas didn't share Mel's penchant for detective thrillers. "I can stand them at all, I don't like anything too anxiety-inducing so we kind of argued back and forth about the merits of watching it or not and finally agreed on watching Sense and Sensibility," says Jas. Both sisters live in south London. Jas lives in Elephant and Castle with Nick Hopper, her partner of 10 years, who did all the photography in the book, and the third founder of the Hemsley + Hemsley brand who looks after the business side. Nick is sometimes to be found in front of the camera too - and it turns out he is the driver of the car in the Audrey Hepburn Galaxy advert set in Capri. While Jas cooks in her retro-style kitchen, Mel's kitchen is more of a modern style and she lives in Stockwell. As we discuss the mechanics of what to serve at our Weekend food event at Cooks Academy next Saturday, I remark how we will have food to sample - a 'here's one I made earlier'. Mel immediately pipes up: "It was my boyfriend's mother who came up with that phrase." Turns out that Mel's boyfriend, art collector Henry Ralph, is the son of former Blue Peter presenter, Lesley Judd. Mel doesn't like too much clutter. She likes books and her favourite gift from Jas was, "a pair of pyjamas that look like they are for an eight-year-old boy and they are the softest thing ever, I'd wear them right now if I could." The siblings tend to spend a lot of time around south London and they've just announced - after keeping it secret for a year - that they are opening a cafe in Selfridges on Oxford Street on April 5. Both are agreed that they have very similar tastes. They love the same gadgets, namely a slow cooker, a grater and, of course, a spiralizer. Jas adds a spatula to her list of gadgetry "because you can just get so much more out of a bowl with a lovely, flexible spatula and it makes washing up so easy. I can't live without mine, in fact I have a collection of them. "Mel used to not like peanut butter but now she has come around. Mel is the spice queen, she really knows her spices. There once was a time when she cooked everything with sage and now I think it's oregano. Actually, we were going through the book and there were loads of recipes with smoked paprika, and I've gone a bit tahini mad," says Jas. "We love really tasty food, we love lots of texture but I tend to do the sweet stuff, the baking and savoury and Mel is great at stews and curries. Every time we meet each other, we bring each other a little taste of what we've been experimenting with and then we try them on our publisher and our team. There's definitely Mel and Jas in there as individuals rather than some kind of side-by-side, recipe-producing machine," says Jas. And what about wine? Do they pour themselves a glass a wine when cooking? "Oh yeah" says Mel, "and cider too. I'd drink the glass and then pour another glass into the pot." Jas takes up the wine topic and interjects, "I think you'd have to taste the wine before you poured it in, otherwise that would just be rude," she laughs, adding that she prefers sitting down, eating and drinking wine with food. "If I was picking, it would be red. If someone that I trusted was picking, I might go white." "If someone else is paying, I'm a Barolo girl for red," Mel adds. They laugh at my enquiry about whether they take holidays together. "Oh, I think we see enough of each other," says Jas. "But we did go to Cambodia about two years ago. We had a lovely time and we did a food reccie, explored a wellness hotel and Nick took the photographs." The holiday was a reward, a kickback after their first book, but as Jas explains, "we are such perfectionists, we were editing while we were still there. Last month, we went on a food reccie to Dubai." Hugely photogenic, the sisters are a publisher's and marketeer's dream and when it comes to clothes, they admit they are quite different. "I get quite hot and sweaty and I wear a lot of dresses," says Mel. "We are always running around so I guess we like practical, comfortable clothes." Jas, on the other hand, notes it is "a rare occasion for both to wear a dress, and we are today. It happens twice a year, the rest of the time I'm in jeans or trousers and a knitted top. I'm a bit colder than Mel so I like to have layers. We are both quite sneaky about carrying around heels and only wear them when we need to." Launching their new book in London last Monday, I enquired if there were any rows about what recipes made it into the book and the ones that got left out? "Not fights, but definitely tears," says Jas. "There were some we felt so sad about, the shoulders were up but our publishers were great and they left in an extra 20 up on what they were hoping for. I've already got book three half written in my head." MEET THE HEMSLEY SISTERS Weekend magazine is delighted to host a 'Meet The Hemsley Sisters' Event on Saturday March 5 to mark the publication of Melissa and Jasmine Hemsley's keeny awaited second book, Good + Simple. The event takes place at Cooks Academy, South William Street, Dublin at 11am with a meet and greet, cooking demostration and food sampling of favourite recipes from their second book, which will be available at a special price on the day. Tickets cost 40 and are available from www.cooksacademy or Telephone: 01-6111-667 You might hate Monday, but you'll love our hand-picked selection of special offers... fresh every week. 175pp: Amazing Algarve Spain may be pricey this year, but the Algarve has some amazing value. Blue Sea Holidays has seven nights at the 3-star Rio Apartments in Vilamoura from 175pp, including flights. The package departs Dublin on March 26. 01 901-0175; blueseaholidays.ie 299pp: Dubrovnik deal Concorde Travel has just posted an excellent deal for Dubrovnik - return flights plus seven nights at the 3-star Antuninska Apartments in the Old Town from 299pp departing April 6. 01 775-9300; concordetravel.ie 399pp: Let's talkTurkey Pound for pound, Turkey is offering some of the best package holiday deals this year. Sunway has seven night packages at the 4-star Golden Day Wings Hotel in Kusadasi from 399pp, departing Dublin April 30. 01 231-1800; sunway.ie. 429pp: Last chance for ski The ski season will shortly come to an end, so why not hit the piste in March? Crystal Ski has flights plus seven nights at the 2-star Plagne Lauze Apartments in La Plagne, France from 429pp, departing March 26. 01 433-1080; crystalski.ie 465pp: Etihad's spring sale Etihad flies daily from Dublin to Abu Dhabi, and it has special offer fares on bookings made by close of business today, February 29. Offers include Abu Dhabi from 469, Bangkok from 595 and Sydney from 862. etihad.com For the best hotel deals in our #MagicMonday destinations, and holiday hotspots all over the world, see hotels.independent.ie. NB: All travel deals subject to availability/change. Victoria's Secret model Miranda Kerr (pictured) recently enjoyed a sunshine break in Cancun in Mexico. Many Irish people are also fans of this tourist resort - a destination that has experienced a tremendous boom in tourism over the past 20 years Cancun, a Mexican city on the Yucatan Peninsula, and which borders the Caribbean Sea, has numerous white sandy beaches, affordable resorts and a lively nightlife. Yet if you fancy something different, like getting back to nature, then maybe venture to the Nichupte Lagoon. The Yucatan Peninsula provides a nurturing habitat for the thousands of plant and animal species that live in this area. From exotic birds, to reptiles, to monkeys, to leopards and jaguars - nature's beauty abounds. It's why ecotourists head to Laguna Nichupte which borders the Cancun resort zone, and is rich with waterfowl, fish, crocodiles and shellfish. A "jungle tour" allows visitors to navigate the Lagoon. visitmexico.com/en/cancun Sleep soundly in a strange land Expand Close SleepPhones / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp SleepPhones Sometimes sleeping in hotel rooms can be difficult, as you adapt to a different environment, strange noises, and possibly even feeling out of your comfort zone. So SleepPhones could be ideal if you find listening to soothing sounds helps you drift off. They're comprised of a soft headband containing traditional speakers which are cord-free, and so allow you roll around under the duvet. They're pre-loaded with 17 audio tracks featuring binaural beat technology - believed to increase feelings of relaxation. Indeed they could be the answer to travelling with a companion who snores! The headband is made from cool, soft, lightweight stretchy material and is washable. They cost in the region of 90. sleepphones.com Where do we do our best thinking? Expand Close The Geography of Genius. / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp The Geography of Genius. Have you ever wondered about the connection between what surrounds us and our most innovative ideas? Travel writer Eric Weiner examines this premise in his recently published book, The Geography of Genius: A Search for the World's Most Creative Places from Ancient Athens to Silicon Valley. He explores the history of places like Vienna of 1900, Renaissance Florence, and the Song Dynasty Hangzhou. He questions if Darwin's theory of evolution gelled while he was riding in a carriage; if Freud did his best thinking at his favourite coffee house; and why Beethoven, like many geniuses, liked long walks in the woods. The book costs approximately 15. ericweinerbooks.com Keep the love alive on holidays Touristmeetstraveler.com has some ideas on how to keep romance alive while holidaying with your other half. Maintain realistic expectations. Hiking through snowy woods and going back to a romantic cabin with a roaring fire is probably more fun in your imagination. Give your partner some space. If your significant other excuses themselves for a bit, give them some alone time. Be open to ideas and balance what you want. A surprise trip is a treat - but only if your partner wants to go to Disneyland. Split the work. Leaving all organising, navigating, packing, and driving to one person will lead to a row. touristmeetstraveler.com Fionnan Sheahan Ireland Editor at Mediahuis. Fionnan writes news, analysis and comment on current affairs and politics for the Irish Independent and Independent.ie. He is a weekly columnist with the Irish Independent and a presenter of InFocus, the current affairs podcast from Independent.ie. A native of Thurles, Co Tipperary, Fionnan has won several awards for print and digital journalism from Newsbrands Ireland, the Law Society and the National Newspapers of Ireland, including National Journalist of the Year. Prior to his current role, Fionnans positions included Editor and Political Editor of the Irish Independent. He is a regular commentator on TV and radio. Premium John Downing Opinion Pension reforms are dicey territory but grand plan by minister Heather Humphreys just might win through Pension system changes all across the western world have a great propensity to infuriate those most feared by politicians: the grey brigade. And when the oldies take to the streets, they usually play for keeps. Premium Mary Kenny Opinion A male contraceptive jab is on the way, but will it truly equalise reproductive control? It looks as though a male contraceptive vaccine will be available within the next year, according to Dr Amanda Wilson at De Montfort University in Leicester. The jab is called Risug, and it could obviate the demand for vasectomies which is falling anyway. The vaccine, which has completed its final trials, would be reversible, so it is not as radical as vasectomy. Long before he became famous throughout the world as foul-mouthed Jack Hackett in 'Father Ted', Frank Kelly had been making Irish people laugh, especially in RTE's long-running political satire, 'Hall's Pictorial Weekly'. In that weekly series, which ran from 1971 until 1980, he played a myriad of roles, from culchie councillor Parnell Mooney to pipe-smoking Taoiseach Jack Lynch - though it should be noted that his glee in lampooning establishment figures wasn't licked off a stone. The comedian's father was Charles E Kelly, whose prestigious day jobs included director of Radio Eireann broadcasting and of the Post Office Savings Bank, but whose real passion was for the satirical magazine, 'Dublin Opinion', which he co-founded in 1922 and edited until its demise in 1968. In its heyday, 'Dublin Opinion' sold up to 60,000 copies per issue, and, under the initials CEK, Charles Kelly was also one of the magazine's most distinctive cartoonists. He loved taking potshots at Eamon de Valera and other political luminaries, much as his son later did in his 'Hall's Pictorial' roles - indeed, both of them occasionally incurred the wrath of the country's governing masters. Indeed, while both the father's magazine and the son's television impersonations may seem somewhat quaint and toothless by today's standards, in their day they had a real edge - the Frank Hall show (which was mainly scripted by Hall himself) even being blamed for bringing down the 1973-77 coalition that was presided over by "Minister for Hardship" Liam Cosgrave and finance minister "Richie Ruin". "I have a great fondness for it," Frank Kelly said recently of 'Hall's Pictorial Weekly'. "It was an extraordinarily strong piece of satire. It was taken off by RTE and we don't know why." Although at the time of its axing, political pressure from Charles J Haughey's unsmiling administration was suggested as the likely reason. And in a 60-year career, Frank Kelly otherwise played mostly non-political roles, though he was arrestingly good as British Labour leader John Smith in Peter Morgan's outstanding 2003 television drama 'The Deal', which dealt with the doomed pact that had been agreed between Tony Blair and Gordon Brown as they ascended to power. Kelly's earlier RTE career had entailed a long-running stint on the 'Wanderly Wagon' children's show, in which he played various characters and for which he wrote many of the scripts. He is also remembered for his role as resident culchie Gobnait O'Lunasa on the 'Glen Abbey' radio show - many older listeners will recall the surreal telephone calls which began "Hello! Guess who? Is that you, Nuala?" But he was first seen on screen in the 1969 cult movie caper 'The Italian Job', his unlisted appearance occurring in the opening scene as he escorts the felonious Charlie Croker, played by Michael Caine, out of prison. He was in other films, too, including the tear-jerking 'Evelyn' (2002), in which he played the father of Pierce Brosnan's character. And he also latterly featured in ITV soap 'Emmerdale', though he left it after five months as it was keeping him away from home and family for too long. Anyway, he was always busily employed in Ireland, whether in comic roles or doing voice-overs. And he even got into the Irish and UK pop charts with his 1983 rendition of 'A Christmas Countdown', which was a very funny skit on 'The Twelve Days of Christmas' with lyrics by Hugh Leonard. But, of course, it's for his role in 'Father Ted' that he'll always be recalled. The sitcom itself only ran from 1995 to 1998 but it is endlessly repeated on various comedy channels and is everywhere on YouTube, which means that devotees throughout the world are constantly chanting Father Jack's imperishable refrain of "Feck! Arse! Drink! Girls!" In the aftermath of this 2016 General Election, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the outgoing Fine Gael/Labour administration. I do this because they have perhaps done the greatest service to our people since independence. Fine Gael and Labour have made us realise that we do not live in a democracy. When all the spin and nonsense is stripped away, what is a democracy if not an arrangement where the people are supreme? And if there is ever a dispute between an organ of the State and the people, which must stand down? Clearly, the outgoing Government believe it is the people. We have seen contempt for our Dail, and by extension the people, by the members of the outgoing Fine Gael and Labour Government. What is the primary purpose of our Dail? Hint - it is not the passing of legislation. The first thing our Dail does is to elect what we call a government. The primary duty of our Dail is to hold that government to account on our behalf, a duty in which it failed the people. Each and every TD must have the right to ask questions of any member of government and expect an answer, a wholly truthful answer. But time and time again we have had members of the Government dodging, deflecting or belittling. We have also experienced members of that Government elected by our Dail acting like bullies and showing malice to us, the people, clearly believing they are elected to rule, not represent. The Constitution makes no reference to political parties. Surely the use of the party 'whip' to force our elected representatives to vote against the wishes of the electorate and with the demands of a few cannot be democratic? Surely this would be deemed unconstitutional, at least if we did not have a politically appointed judiciary? We are beginning to realise what these parties have done to our democracy. And we are starting to do something about it. It will take time to overcome the grip these parties have on our electoral system. So thank you, Fine Gael and Labour. Thank you for coming into the open and showing us the true nature of this State. Maybe, just maybe, we will yet be able to pass on that most valuable of gifts to the coming generations, a real democracy. Michael Malone Clonsilla, Dublin 15 Electorate has spoken The people have spoken clearly and loudly. Ireland is indeed a social Christian democracy. The challenge now for all political parties is to be very aware of the fact that paid ministerial advisers are completely out of touch with reality. They can never replace grassroots members when it comes to taking the pulse of the electorate. Personally, I deem any minister requiring more than one such adviser as unfit for office. The sole blame for this election result lies with the totally inept leaders of Fine Gael and Labour, who refused to accept the fact that in 2011, the majority of people in Ireland had demanded real political and democratic change. But the electorate received, to quote WB Yeats, "Empty meaningless words", whilst the socialist elite of Labour received a boost to their pensions, and jobs for their families and friends. Enda Kenny et al would be well advised to heed other words by Yeats, in this the centenary year of the Easter Rising. "Cast your mind on other days That we in coming days may be Still the indomitable Irishry." The "we" is the electorate, who have shown very well that they know how to use their vote to their advantage. Good luck to the people of Ireland. Declan Foley Berwick, Australia Voters show Labour the way It appears that after Frankfurt's way or Labour's way, Labour has now been shown the way by voters . . . Nick Crawford Dalkey, Co Dublin Boom-time mistakes James Gleeson is wrong when he blames the boom-time opposition and not the boom-time government and financial institutions for the bankrupting of the country (Irish Independent, Letters, February 26). In contrast to the criticism the outgoing Government is getting now, the government then was hailed as delivering 'an extraordinary journey of sustained national achievement'. The then government was also praised for offering 'new roads and hospitals where you won't die waiting for a bed'. It was even declared back then that 'all the great battles on corruption and taxation had been won'. In contrast, the then opposition was declared as being 'stupid and bumbling' for advocating 'greater efficiency and effectiveness in the public service weeks before an election'. There was actually a forecast that 'the only sector of the public service where there will be a reduction in overall numbers is in the opposition'. That forecast actually turned out to be right. Government supporters were gloating that it was years 'since an opposition party was elected into government'. The country was bankrupted by the decisions of a small number of human beings who were in virtually unchallenged control of this country's most powerful government and financial institutions. The then opposition were a marginalised and scorned minority. A Leavy Sutton, Dublin 13 Election just a tribal headcount Another inane and pointless election has come and gone. Elections are nothing but a tribal headcount of careerist politicians who will offer the same excuses again and again for failing to deliver. Despite the so-called losses by the main political parties, a central core has managed to get elected again without much difficulty. These old-guard politicians will offer nothing new, but instead only hold the fort in a stillborn nation that forces thousands to leave while they look after special interests and their cronies. Housing was such a big issue after the property crash with the banks demanding their money back and repossessing mortgage holders' homes by the score, but the issue was barely mentioned during the campaign. Despite numerous protests across the country on water charges, the issue was almost completely forgotten about in Election 2016. It's the same old story, the establishment always gets in and the people pay for the same old conservatism. Maurice Fitzgerald Shanbally, Co Cork Rolanda Byrd speaks to media at the scene A black man was shot in the back and killed while running away from an officer in Raleigh, North Carolina, according to local reports. Family and friends are claiming the young man was unarmed at the time but Raleigh Police Chief Cassandra Deck Brown told reporters that a gun was found near the man. A woman on the scene told media her son was shot while running away from an officer. Her son's name is Akil Denkins and was a 23-year-old father-of-two. He was wanted on drug charges. "He was running away," said Rolanda Byrd. "They couldn't catch him so they shot at him seven times." "Whoever is back there is dead, they (police) told me whoever is back there is dead," she added. "Everybody seen it," she continued. "They ain't going down with this one. They ain't gonna get away with this one, there's at least 40 eyewitnesses out here." A small group of demonstrators arrived at the scene chanting "Black lives matter" soon after the shooting. Otto Frederick Warmbier, a University of Virginia student who has been detained in North Korea since early January An American student held in North Korea since early January was detained for trying to steal a propaganda slogan from his Pyongyang hotel and has confessed to "severe crimes" against the state, the North's official media said on Monday. Otto Warmbier, 21, a student at the University of Virginia, was detained before boarding his flight to China over an unspecified incident at his hotel, his tour agency told Reuters in January. North Korea has a long history of detaining foreigners and has used jailed U.S. citizens in the past to extract high-profile visits from the United States, with which it has no formal diplomatic relations. "I committed the crime of taking out a political slogan from the staff-only area of the Yanggakdo International Hotel," the North's KCNA news agency quoted Warmbier as telling media in Pyongyang, the North Korean capital. A video clip posted on CNN correspondent Will Ripley's Twitter account showed a sobbing Warmbier saying: "I have made the worst mistake of my life, but please act to save me." Warmbier said a "deaconess" had offered him a used car worth $10,000 if he could present a U.S. church with the slogan as a "trophy" from North Korea, KCNA said. Expand Close Otto Frederick Warmbier (3rd R), a University of Virginia student who has been detained in North Korea / Facebook Twitter Email Whatsapp Otto Frederick Warmbier (3rd R), a University of Virginia student who has been detained in North Korea The acquaintance also said the church would pay his mother $200,000 if he was detained by the North and did not return, KCNA quoted Warmbier as saying. "My crime is very severe and pre-planned," Warmbier was quoted as saying, adding that he was impressed by North Korea's "humanitarian treatment of severe criminals like myself". Warmbier's family have not heard from him since his arrest, according to a statement provided to the Cavalier Daily, the University of Virginia's student-run newspaper. "He seems to be in good health, although we won't know for sure about his condition until we have a chance to speak with him," the statement said. Other Westerners detained in North Korea previously have confessed to crimes against the state. North Korea's state media said in January that Warmbier "was caught committing a hostile act against the state", which it said was "tolerated and manipulated by the U.S. government". The senior pastor at Friendship United Methodist Church in Wyoming, Ohio, told CNN that he did not know the person identified by Warmbier in the KCNA story as a deaconess there, and said Warmbier was not a member of the congregation. According to KCNA, Warmbier also said he was encouraged in his act by a member of the Z Society, an elite philanthropic organisation at the University of Virginia that he hoped to join. An official in the university's communications office could not immediately be reached for comment. Warmbier was on a five-day New Year's tour of North Korea with a group of 20 and was delayed at immigration before being taken away by two airport officials, according to a tour operator that had sponsored the trip. While the vast majority of tourists to North Korea are from China, roughly 6,000 Westerners visit the country annually, though the United States and Canada advise against it. Most are adventure-seekers curious about life behind the last sliver of the iron curtain, and ignore critics who say their dollars prop up a repressive regime. A groom has described the actions of some members of his stag party who became involved in a mid-air brawl, causing the flight to be diverted, as "unacceptable". Joshua Mariner, 26, from Southampton, Hampshire, was travelling with 11 friends on a Ryanair flight from Luton to Bratislava, Slovakia, on Saturday, when the fracas broke out causing the pilot to divert to Berlin, Germany. Six of the 12-man group were arrested by German police and charged with air safety offences which carry a maximum fine of 25,000. In a statement released to the Southern Daily Echo, Mr Mariner, a self-employed ceiling and partitions specialist, said: "The lads' behaviour was unacceptable and they will now have to suffer the consequences of their actions. "It was reported by German police that I was one of the lads arrested which isn't true and I will be seeking legal advice as it has caused a lot of distress for me and my family." It has been reported that Mr Mariner is due to marry fiancee Abi Whitmore in March. Video footage obtained by The Sun shows a passenger standing up, swearing and confronting another man, who is sitting down, before throwing a punch at him. The man standing up is heard to say: "I'm not afraid of you, I swear on my mother's life. You've done it now. Why shouldn't I batter you in the face?" He continues: "I would rather stab you in the face with a fork. No disrespect to you, but I hate you." Fellow passengers are seen to be upset by the fracas, with one woman holding a baby asking them to calm down. The video finishes as a member of the cabin crew asks the man recording the incident to stop filming. A German police spokesman said that six men, aged between 25 and 28, were detained and charged with offences under the Aviation Security Act which could bring fines of up to 25,000. He added that they could face civil action from the airline. The spokesman said that after establishing the identity of the six men, they were released by police. German police said: "Six young men behaved so badly that a pilot excluded them from a flight. This resulted in an unscheduled landing at Berlin Schonefeld and regulatory offence charges. "Border police came aboard the plane and the offences were reported. "The group of young Britons were part of a stag party travelling from London to Bratislava on a Ryanair plane. During the flight six of the 12 men posed a risk to the safety on board and ignored the instructions of the crew. "The pilot of the plane, which carried 170 passengers, decided to perform an unscheduled landing at around 20.30. "At the airport Berlin Schonefeld the intoxicated men from Southampton were met by border police. "The police officers made regulatory offence charges according to air-safety law against the 25 to 28-year-old men. The men could face fines of up to 25,000. "In addition to this, civil legal action might be taken by the airline." A spokesman for the German police said that the video of the incident would be examined to see if a criminal offence had been committed. Chief Inspector Thorsten Peters said: "What you see on the videos would be assault and insult but we have to see if the people in the video are also the people whose details we have recorded. "There will probably be a few witnesses but there is the fact that you remain innocent until proven guilty." Mr Peters said it was not known how long it would take to determine whether the six men detained would be fined for the air safety offences, or how much. "We have met the enemy, and he is us." - Pogo A woman has been arrested after she brandished a child's severed head outside a metro station in Moscow. Moscow investigators said in a statement the unnamed nanny was from Central Asia and that she was undergoing psychiatric testing to see if she was mentally sound and understood the significance of the crime they said she had committed. Lifenews.ru, an online news portal with close contacts to the police, published video footage of a woman it identified as the nanny. Clad in black, she was seen wandering around the street holding up a child's severed head high in the air. The portal said a policeman had approached the woman to check her documents and that she had responded by removing the child's head from a bag and begun shouting that she had killed the infant. One reporter, from the RBC daily, said she had heard the woman screaming "Allahu Akbar" (God is Great). "I was on my way to the metro station from home," Polina Nikolskaya, the reporter, told Reuters. "She was standing near the metro entrance and caught my attention because she was screaming Allahu Akbar. I saw that she had a bloodied head in her arms, but I thought it was not real. People in the crowd said it was real." In other footage of the scene, the woman can be heard shouting about the end of the world while proclaiming herself a terrorist. Investigators said the murdered child was three or four years old and that the nanny had killed the child in the family's Moscow flat before setting fire to the premises and fleeing. The motive for the crime was unknown, they said. In demand: The mistaken belief that rhino horn is an aphrodisiac has led to a poaching crisis in Asia and Africa The Irish featured on the front page of French broadsheet Le Figaro last Wednesday. The topic? Our national debt, corporate tax rate or even David Norris's withdrawal from the Irish presidential race? Mais non. We hit the headlines for a different, bizarre reason, with money and sex being the underlying factors. As unlikely as it may seem, the latest crime in vogue in Europe is rhinoceros horn theft, and an Irish gang is alleged to be behind it. The criminals sell the tusks to customers hoping to add some spice to their sex lives -- individuals willing to pay an extremely high price. There have been robberies in Portugal, France, Germany, in the Czech Republic and Sweden. The most recent target was the Museum of Natural Sciences in Brussels. Apparently, it only took a few minutes for thieves to run off with a heavy stuffed rhinoceros head from the museum, leaving the curator bereft. "For 80 years we took care of it, and now all of a sudden it's no longer there," said Georges Lenglet, who holds little hope of getting the stolen head back. The museum had never experienced a break-in since its establishment over 160 years ago. France has also experienced a spate of this kind of crime. According to newspaper France Soir, a rhinoceros head weighing 100kg was stolen from a museum in Blois in the Loire Valley region, and an attempted robbery was reported by the International Hunting Museum in the town of Gien, in the Loiret area. Europol, in conjunction with the gardai, has alerted potential targets -- museums, zoos, antique dealers -- against potential burglaries. Why rhinoceros horns? For the simple reason that they are worth a fortune, particularly in Asia. One tusk alone is worth around $15,000 on the black market, and prices can even reach up to 200,000, Europol reports. The older it is, the more expensive. The horns have been renowned throughout the centuries for their alleged aphrodisiac qualities. The powder form was thought to induce sexual marvels and make the earth move for both partners. Fans of this remedy also drink potions from libation cups sculpted from the tusks, in the hope of improving their sex drive, strength and vigour. It's certainly a pricey way of getting your kicks, but the demand is high and criminals have spotted a niche in the market. The number one suspect behind the recent thefts is the so-called 'Tarmacadam Gang'. The gang, believed to be composed of Irish and British con men from the Travelling community, turns up at people's homes offering to lay tarmac on drives for a bargain price. They take the money and set the tarmac, which is usually of such poor quality that it needs to be redone by a reputable company. The gang's alleged array of crimes is broad. It was suspected to be at the root of the murder of two men in Millas, a small town near Perpignan in South-East France, late last year and, according to Agence France Presse, has also been rumoured to traffic drugs and arms. And now the gang has targeted the lucrative sector of rhino tusks. Last May, two Irish men from Rathkeale in Limerick, Richard O'Brien and Michael Hegarty, were arrested in Colorado for trying to export four horns back to Ireland. They were sentenced to six months in prison and three years' probation, along with a $17,600 fine. Despite this setback, it seems that the group is very well organised and rarely gets caught, at least not yet in Europe. Magazine Le Point last week reported that during the recent robbery of the Museum of Natural Sciences in Brussels, one man distracted the caretaker, while two others lifted the bolt of the display case. They then took the head (which weighed approximately 30kg) and escaped out the windows of the toilets. "The thieves use every criminal method possible," notes Patrick Byrne of Europol. The rhino heads sell quickly on the black market and then the offenders camouflage their gains by purchasing expensive cars and apartments. The sad fact is that this spate of robberies is closely connected to the slaughter of rhinos in Asia and Africa. "In the last three years, 800 African rhinos have been killed and experts agree that we are facing the worst rhino poaching crisis in decades," says Lucy Boddam-Whetham, Acting Director of Save the Rhino International. The worst aspect is that the murder is utterly futile. Experts have declared rhino horns to have no medicinal value, nor effect on libido, whatsoever. Even if they did, what an expensive way to improve one's love life. Surely a packet of Viagra would provide better value? It seems some superstitions never die. Stranded refugees and migrants are pushed back by Greek riot police after they tried to storm Macedonia from the Greek side of the border during a protest, near the Greek village of Idomeni, February 29, 2016 Police have fired tear gas and stun grenades after a few hundred migrants angry at long delays in entering Macedonia broke a gate on the border with Greece. The protesters, who were chanting "Open the border" and throwing stones at Macedonian police, were repelled. There were no reports of arrests or injuries from the latest clashes. Police said 500 people earlier pushed their way past Greek police to reach the gate, which is used to let trains through at the border crossing. About 6,500 people are stuck on the Greek side of the border. Some have been there for up to eight days with little food or shelter as Macedonia only accepts a small number of people every day. Macedonian police opened the crossing to receive about 50 people just before midday, after keeping it closed for eight hours, but shut it again after the clashes. The Idomeni crossing is a key point on the mass migration route that has prompted a major Europe-wide crisis. More than a million people have entered the continent since January 2015 - mostly arriving in small smugglers' boats from Turkey on Greece's eastern Aegean Sea islands. After first sending welcoming messages, European authorities are now struggling to handle the situation. Hungary has fenced off its borders, refusing to accept any migrants, and other eastern European countries say they will not take in anyone under an EU refugee-sharing deal. In recent weeks Austria - at the end of the Balkan corridor - has severely restricted the inflow of migrants, causing a domino effect through the Balkans. Many countries are now refusing to let Afghan refugees in, although UN authorities say no one has explained to them who made this decision or why. Macedonia has said it will only allow in as many people as Serbia accepts. This has led to a huge bottleneck in Greece, where authorities say more than 22,000 people are stuck and hundreds more are arriving every day. At Idomeni, 45-year-old Syrian refugee Nidal Jojack said she has been camped out with her family for three days and nights. She said: "Very many people were forced to sleep in the open, without tents, wrapped in blankets. It was very cold. The borders are effectively closed, it's a huge problem." Meanwhile, Austria's deputy chancellor rejected criticism from other EU nations over his country's introduction of caps on asylum seekers. Reinhold Mitterlehner said the "upper limits are necessary (and) we're going to maintain them". He was referring to the decision to accept no more than 80 requests for asylum a day at Austria's southern border with Slovenia from arriving migrants. Mr Mitterlehner said Austria continues to seek a solution to the migrant crisis that involves all 28 EU nations. But he told the Austria Press Agency that until that happens "we have to ... create limits". A 95-year-old former SS medic accused of accessory to murder on allegations he helped the Nazis' Auschwitz death camp function has been declared unfit to attend court. Hubert Zafke faces 3,681 charges of accessory to murder. Presiding Judge Klaus Kabisch told the Neubrandenburg state court a doctor had found Zafke was suffering from stress and high blood pressure, and had suicidal thoughts. The trial's opening was postponed until March 14, with both sides agreeing Zafke should be examined by doctors the morning of the proceedings to see if he is fit. Zafke's unit was allegedly involved in putting gas into gas chambers to kill Jews. Zafke's attorney insists his client did nothing criminal. Judge Kabisch said Zafke had told the doctor "I can't take it any more, I'm at my end," and that "I want to be with mother." The judge said the latter was a reference to Zafke's wife, who died in 2011. Prosecutors allege Zafke's unit was involved in putting gas into gas chambers to kill Jews and others, screening blood and other samples from women prisoners in hospital, and otherwise helping the camp operate by treating SS personnel. They say the unit was also involved in auxiliary guard duties. The trial is one of several in recent years to arise from a shift in German legal thinking. Prosecutors have successfully argued that since Nazi death camps' entire purpose was to murder Jews and others, helping the camp run in any manner makes one an accessory to those murders. The charges against Zafke stem from a one-month period in 1944 and involve the deaths of Jews who arrived in 14 transports, including one that brought Anne Frank and her family to the camp. Frank died later at Bergen-Belsen. Zafke was initially found unfit for trial by the court in Neubrandenburg, north of Berlin, but an appeals court overruled that after more medical exams, saying the retired farmer could stand trial so long as sessions were limited to two hours at a time. Ahead of the trial, prosecutors and attorneys representing Jewish Auschwitz survivors who have joined the trial as co-plaintiffs, as allowed under German law, accused the Neubrandenburg judges of bias, but a motion to have them replaced was rejected. Cornelius Nestler, who represents two brothers from Colorado who survived Auschwitz as young boys but lost both their parents, said his feelings were reinforced by the court's decision to postpone the trial based on the assessment of a doctor called by Zafke's children on Saturday, while there were two doctors in the court prepared to assess him. "This court over the last months has shown that it is not interested in this going to trial at all," he said. Both defence and prosecution agreed that before the next session, Zafke will be assessed the same morning by court-appointed experts. A man rides a bicycle through a devastated quarter of the old city of Homs, Syria, over the weekend. Photo: Hassan Ammar Warplanes carried out air raids yesterday on several parts of northern Syria, as a top opposition official warned that continued violations of a fragile ceasefire could jeopardise a planned resumption of UN-brokered peace talks. The acts of violence came as Russia said a northern town held by a predominantly Kurdish militia came under fire from the Turkish side of the border. Yesterday's air raids came on the second day of a ceasefire brokered by Russia and the US, the most ambitious effort yet to curb the violence of the country's five-year civil war. The truce has been holding since it went into effect at midnight on Friday, despite accusations by both sides of violations. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the airstrikes hit the villages of Daret Azzeh and Qobtan al-Jabal in Aleppo province. The group did not say whether the warplanes were Russian or Syrian. The Local Co-ordination Committees (LCC) said the planes were Russian. The Observatory and the LCC also reported air raids on the northwestern town of Jisr al-Shughour, saying a woman was killed and 12 others were wounded. It was not immediately clear if the warplanes struck areas controlled by al-Qa'ida's branch in Syria, known as the Nusra Front. Both the Nusra Front and Isil are excluded from the truce. Meanwhile, Syria's state news agency said militants fired shells into government-held areas in the coastal province of Latakia from their bases near the Turkish border. The agency reported that the shelling killed and wounded a number of people, without giving further details. Opposition activists and state media also reported clashes between troops and members of Isil, mostly in the northern province of Aleppo. Still, both sides have said they will continue to abide by the truce. Also yesterday, Riad Hijab, who heads the High Negotiations Committee, an umbrella for opposition and rebel factions, said in a statement directed to UN chief Ban Ki-Moon, that Russian, Iranian and government forces had not stopped hostilities since the truce went into effect. Hijab said there had been 24 cases of shelling and five cases of ground attacks. He added that Russian warplanes carried out 26 airstrikes yesterday alone targeting rebels who were abiding by the truce. "The repeated violations by the regime and its allies have killed 29 and wounded dozens," he said. A methane gas leak at a coal mine in Russia's far north triggered three explosions that ignited a raging fire and partially collapsed the mine, killing 36 people, officials said yesterday. A methane gas leak at a coal mine in Russia's far north triggered three explosions that ignited a raging fire and partially collapsed the mine, killing 36 people, officials said yesterday. The dead included five rescue workers and a mine worker who were killed early yesterday when the third explosion rocked the Severnaya mine in Vorkuta, a town north of the Arctic Circle in the Komi region, the emergency services said. The first two explosions struck late on Thursday, killing four miners and trapping 26 others. Denis Paikin, technical director for mine operator Vorkutaugol, said yesterday that given the level of gas in the mine, the degree of destruction and the trajectory of the fire - which continued to burn - all of the missing miners were presumed dead. Federal officials later confirmed that none of the trapped miners had survived. Russia's industrial safety watchdog, Rostekhnadzor, said the accident was determined to have been a natural disaster. "According to the materials that have been obtained and preliminary information, the accident had natural causes and was a geological event," said Alexander Goncharenko, who heads the regional branch of the watchdog, Russian news agencies reported. He did not elaborate. At the time of the blast, 111 miners were underground and 81 were rescued. Russia's Emergency Situations Minister, Vladimir Puchkov, told reporters that there was virtually no chance of survival for any of the 26 miners who had been trapped since Thursday. Three days of mourning have been declared in the Komi Republic, the icy region of Russia's polar north where the mine is located Puchkov praised the rescue workers for their bravery. "They were working under the most complex conditions and demonstrated courage, heroism and top-notch skills," he told reporters. Donald Trump's refusal to denounce an implicit endorsement from a former Ku Klux Klan leader dominated the narrative as Republican voters across 11 states prepared to head to the polls on Super Tuesday. Mr Trump's rivals are scrambling to stop the billionaire businessman from becoming an "unstoppable" force in the 2016 US presidential contest. And even Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton, fresh from a strong win in South Carolina, has started turning her focus on him. Texas Senator Ted Cruz and Florida Senator Marco Rubio continued to criticise Mr Trump's character and lack of policy specifics in a series of attacks on Sunday while courting voters across the South, whose states dominate Tuesday's voting. Mr Rubio and Mr Cruz acknowledge that time is running out to prevent the former reality television host from becoming the Republican Party's presumptive nominee, as the race to collect delegates for the party's nominating convention this summer continues. Mr Trump has won three of four early voting states, and Republicans are divided over the prospect of the brash billionaire becoming their nominee. "There is no doubt that if Donald steam rolls through Super Tuesday, wins everywhere with big margins, that he may well be unstoppable," Mr Cruz said. Mr Trump was asked on CNN whether he rejected support from former KKK Grand Dragon David Duke and other white supremacists, after Mr Duke told his radio followers this week that a vote against Mr Trump was equivalent to "treason to your heritage". "Well, just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke. OK?" Mr Trump said. "I don't know anything about what you're even talking about with white supremacy or white supremacists." Mr Trump later said he did not hear or understand the CNN question. Mr Cruz soon responded on Twitter, telling Mr Trump: "You're better than this. We should all agree, racism is wrong, KKK is abhorrent." Mr Rubio went further, telling a Virginia rally: "We cannot be a party who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan. "Not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable. How are we going to grow the party if we nominate someone who doesn't repudiate the Ku Klux Klan?" Mr Trump has not always claimed ignorance on Mr Duke's history. In 2000, he wrote a New York Times editorial explaining why he abandoned the possibility of running for president on the Reform Party ticket. He wrote of an "underside" and "fringe element" of the party, concluding: "I leave the Reform Party to David Duke, Pat Buchanan and Lenora Fulani. That is not company I wish to keep." Asked about the issue on Monday, Mr Trump told NBC he had disavowed Mr Duke and asked: "How many times do I have to continue to disavow people?" The Duke debate seeped into the Democratic contest, as Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders lashed out on Twitter: "America's first black president cannot and will not be succeeded by a hatemonger who refuses to condemn the KKK." Mrs Clinton re-tweeted Mr Sanders' message. The former secretary of state holds a huge advantage among African-Americans, a key Democratic constituency that will play a dominant role in several Super Tuesday states. Mr Trump holds commanding leads across the South, with the exception of Mr Cruz's home state of Texas, a dynamic that puts tremendous pressure on Mr Rubio and Mr Cruz as they try to outlast each other. Mr Trump mocked the Republican establishment and his flailing rivals, telling NBC: "It's amazing what's going on," and calling his campaign a "movement". SC Supreme Court hears challenge to 6-week abortion law The SC law, temporarily blocked until the court considers its fate, is being challenged on the grounds that it violates privacy rights in constitution. CONCORD- Hamburgers and going shopping at Concord Mills are typical for a citizen of Cabarrus County, but for a class from China they were an adventure in American culture. Concord High School hosted 28 students from Dazu High School in Chongqing, China this week. The visit is through Concord Highs Confucius Institute Online partnership, which allows students from China and the United States to interact while learning each others language and culture. The program promotes Chinese culture and language throughout the world and is done in correlation with the Concords International Baccalaureate (IB) program. Theyve had a great time, it has been very exciting, said Chrissy Rotan, IB coordinator for the high school. Our kids have learned so much from them. Dazu High School is Concord High Schools sister school through the program and students emailed and Skyped each other prior to the visit. The Chinese students arrived in Cabarrus County on Saturday, Feb. 20 and stayed with host families of students in the IB Chinese class, which has a goal for students to be fluent in Chinese by graduation, until Thursday. Junjing Yang, who teaches the Chinese classes at Concord, received a Confucius Classroom grant through NC State University for $10,000 annually to support the Chinese language program. The grant was used to provide transportation for the visiting class. While in Cabarrus, the Chinese class visited Concord Mills, attended a basketball came at Davidson College, visited Rep. Richard Hudsons office and were introduced to other parts of American culture with their host families. Many of them spoke a little English but used translation applications on their phones to communicate or relied on their teacher, Tan Lihua, to translate. Chinese student Tang Songlin expressed his gratitude to his host family for being patient with him because of the language barrier. They are enthusiastic, friendly, patient and have good hospitality, Songlin said. People are polite here. Many of the Dazu students were also impressed with American food. Songlin said he liked orange juice while Yuan Qizhe said he fell in love with the bread. I love bread very much, Qizhe said. I like the environment here. The air is fresh and the sky is blue. For Tan Yi, his favorite was hamburgers. I have a lot of fun here, Yi said. We go to American restaurants and eat some hamburgers. I like them so much. The Chinese class also shadowed Concord students during regular school days to observe some of the differences in educational culture. Qizhe said he came on the trip specifically to experience school in America. He said schools in China are much more strict. I like to have some new experience about American school and culture and learn how they study in school, Qizhe said. Here if you have an answer you can tell the teacher the answer, Qizhe said. In China, you are afraid to tell the teacher because you might be wrong. But the Chinese students werent the only ones who learned about culture from the visit. Concord students found it interesting to hear the dialect the Dazu students spoke. It gives us a different perspective of variations of Chinese culture. They are teaching us their dialect, student Emma Churchyard said. Before the Chinese class left for their next stop on the American tour, Washington D.C., each student wrote a story entitled My American Friend about their experience with their host family. Tony Chen wrote about student Julianna Larens family. His story said I have a good friend, Julianna. She is a good girl. She took care of me. There is too much I wanna say and thank, but I have little time. But I can continue writing when I come back to China. I enjoyed the time being with Julianna. The Union Budget is around the corner and its that time of the year when we all look forward with eagerness to know whats in store for each of us in the Finance Ministers bag/suitcase. Id like to present my wishlist for the mutual funds industry for Budget 201 Enhanced tax benefits for investments Presently section 80C giving tax break of up to Rs 1, 50,000 is crowded with too many options and ELSS is one of them. By offering an altogether dedicated section for it I believe ELSS will receive an automatic boost and many investors will be attracted to it. This would bring the much needed domestic funds to the capital markets and also inculcate the habit of investing in market oriented, growth assets among households. Also, investors are now allowed for exemption in capital gains tax under section 54EC. This benefit now could be extended to mutual funds who in turn will invest in infrastructure sector, so that investors can save more tax and more money is pushed into mutual funds and improve the infrastructure sector Pension tax break u/s 80CCD for Mutual Funds Presently the National Pension System (NPS) is for citizens aged between 18 to 60 years, on a voluntary basis. Currently only investments made through NPS up to Rs. 50,000 a year is allowed to deduction under section 80CCD of the Income Tax Act, 1961. This is over and above Rs. 1.5 lakh a year under section 80C. In my view investments through mutual funds managing pension plans should also be allowed to get deduction under section 80CCD. Moreover, very few pension plans by mutual fund get a nod from Central Board of Direct Taxes (CBDT). I believe investments in equity market through mutual funds over a long period as suited for a pension plan could allow investors to make the most of the rising market. Therefore, the CBDT should get rid of the cumbersome process and could look at an auto-approval methodology that welcomes more MF schemes for investors. Jan Dhan Yojana to include mutual funds Many changes have been made by the government to its Jan Dhan Yojna, in a quest to bring financial inclusion. Earlier in 2011 another similar initiative called Swabhimaan, was started by the government. Recently the government has started working on it plans to allow more free ATM transactions for certain types of accounts as part of its drive to deepen financial inclusion through the spread of cash-vending machines. So, while the government is taking its small steps to make this initiative successful, in my view Mutual Funds should be a part of this program. This will help in mutual fund penetration and an ease of access to mutual fund investments for investors. More of Indian households should participate in the capital markets. This can be channelized through mutual funds. More inflow from domestic side should also help offset volatile FII money. Favourable tax treatment for Equity Fund of Funds Equity mutual fund, which is a fund that invests in multiple other equity funds, is presently not favoured by many investors due to the reason that they do not enjoy the same treatment as other equity funds. When the underlying securities are equity ideally the Fund of Funds too should be counted as an equity fund. This is a matter mutual funds have been hopeful of for much long. This budget, we hope, will make it come true. Schemes Equity schemes Equity fund of funds Tax on Capital Gains Long Term Short Term Long Term Short Term Nil 15% 20% with Indexation Maximum 30% Boost for technology adoption by mutual funds for Financial Inclusion Financial inclusion is all about the delivery of financial services at affordable costs to sections of the disadvantaged and low income segments of the society, as per the RBI. With the advent of the internet penetration, and as the penetration of handheld devices like smart phones and tablets increases, more people can start transacting online to purchase/redeem funds without the need for visiting a physical office. Technology and digitalization is making its way in the financial sector. In an era where the leaders of the nation are urging on national e-governance plans by giving approval for Digital India Program, we could expect some announcements that will help to take the dream of financial inclusion to the next level and hence make investments through mutual funds easier. AMCs by Individuals In the banking sector RBI licensed individuals to operate small finance banks & payments banks to carry forward the regulator's objective of deepening financial inclusion. In the mutual fund industry too, by allowing eligible individuals to start an AMC we will encourage both individuals and investors to invest in mutual fund schemes in India. With more and more good and honest players in the industry, investors will have quality mutual fund schemes & services to choose from. In the US some of the large fund houses today were initially started by individuals. Vanguard and Templeton, both mammoth fund houses, were started by John Bogle and Rupert H. Johnson, Sr. Respectively. From the upcoming union budget I look forward for some positive reforms and incentives from the finance ministry that will facilitate individuals to start an AMC. I have high hopes that this Budget will broaden the scope of financial inclusion by giving due emphasis to the mutual fund industry which will help us offer better services and get more & more people invested in mutual funds. The author is CEO, Quantum AMC hosted by UBM EMEA and China Chamber of Commerce of Medicines & Health Products Importers & Exporters and co-organized by UBM Sinoexpo, will be held on June 21-23, 2016 at Hall E2 in Shanghai New International Expo Centre (SNIEC). As one of the crucial sectors presented at CPhI China, NEX China plays a vital role in supporting the export of natural extract manufacturing enterprises.Over recent years, the event has become the first choice for many natural extracts manufacturers and other similar companies to do business.Export of plant extracts achieved a growth rate of 29.6% year on year throughout January June 2015 reaching USD 1.09 billion. This industry has become one of the fastest growing industries in TCM product export.Furthermore, the future extract market can be described as full of opportunities, with the application areas of plant extracts constantly being expanded, the emerging markets slowly rising, and the concept of people returning to nature strengthened."Lead the industry innovation, co-create a healthy future"-"NEX China" will make every effort to provide a trade and exchange platform helping professional buyers in pharmaceutical, health product, food and cosmetics industries.The exhibition site in 2016 will gather more than 500 professional plant extract enterprises from all over the world, in addition to the industry's latest products and innovative technologies, covering a 16,000m 2area of the SNIEC.This exhibition will serve as the best platform for extract suppliers to showcase new products, exchange new technologies, and establish cooperation with quality buyers from China and abroad.Among the exhibits contributing to the event will be Chongqing Joywin showcasing its advantageous product inulin, and Layn Natural Ingredients' featured product siraitia grosvenorii extract. In innovative technology, Xi'an Honson Biotechnology will display its newly researched and developed nebulization extraction and separation technology, and Xi'an Changyue will show its supercritical method for extracting serenoa serrulata fruit.Such diversified new products and leading technologies are set to provide NEX China participants with fruitful results this June. Online visitor registration is now open. Wipro CEO Abid Ali Neemuchwala will be getting a compensation in the range of $1.3 million and $2.19 million, excluding stock-based compensation and other perks and benefits. (TOI)Persistent Systems has come a full circle from barring employees from using social media to using it as a recruitment and business generation tool. (ET)Leading players from the Indian IT sector have expressed hope that the government would respond favorably to industry demands for a level playing field to kick-start IT manufacturing in the country. (India Infoline)US Securities and Exchange Commission filings show Morgan Stanley fund's markdown was a result of the fund changing its criteria of valuing private technology companies such as Flipkart. (ET)Government has asked Google to select a telecom operator as partner for testing the balloon-based Internet technology, Loon Project, in the country. (Businessinsider.in)Combined valuation of six of the top ten most valued firms fell by Rs 41,672.7 crore during the week ended February 26 amid a choppy broader market. (NDTV)India is a big opportunity for us on the global business map. With the big day getting closer, we look forward to key announcements around tax reforms and changes in the duty structure, which came into effect last year, says Vishal Parekh, MD, Kingston Technology. (India Infoline) Spicejet, Jet Airways and Indigo Airlines announced pre-summer sale. SpiceJet will kick start its Pre-Summer Sale with red hot fares across its domestic network. The airlines summer bonanza offers one-way base fare as low as Rs. 599/- for all its non-stop flights across its domestic network. Read More Ratan Tata accused older airlines of lobbying with the Government not to relax the 5/20 rule and that they were afraid of facing competition from the two new carriers where the Tata group is a shareholder. Read More SpiceJet said that the agitation and blockade at major intersections, roadways and railways in Haryana has brought the entire state to a halt hampering the normalcy of public life. And in this unfortunate hour we at SpiceJet extend our bid in facilitating those thousands of harrowed commuters. Read More SpiceJet will see a meaningful turnaround by the end of FY17 as Indias second largest budget carrier expects to clear legacy issues over the next six months and will expand its network, reports a business daily. Read More Airlines in India have been operating in a hostile cost environment and being a long term gestation industry, there has been a huge amount of accumulated book losses (including unabsorbed depreciation) in the whole sector. Read More Jet Airways, Indias premier international airline, has entered into a codeshare agreement and a reciprocal frequent flyer programme partnership with Korean Air, the largest airline in South Korea. Guests travelling on both Jet Airways and Korean Air will be able to connect from multiple points in India to Seoul over various gateway points in Asia. Read More Ramco Systems, the global Aviation software provider on Cloud, Mobile & Tablets, partners with Aeroxchange, industrys leading electronic business network supporting all MRO business processes for buyers and sellers within the aviation industry. Read More "GMR Male" International Airport Limited ( GMIAL) a subsidiary of GMR Infrastructure Limited had entered into a Concession Agreement with Government of Maldives (GaM) and Maldives Airport Company Limited (MACL) for modernization and operation of Ibrahim Nasir International Airport (INIA) in 2010. Read More Vistara has been trying to increase capacity, expand networks and reduce business class seats to attract more passengers, reports a business daily. We will also be offering more choices of destinations and improving the timings of our flights based on customer feedback. We are also gearing up to expand the footprint by 50% in 2016, Vistara CEO Phee Teik Yeoh told the financial newspaper. Read More Jet Airways, Indias premier international airline, announced the appointment of Rahul Taneja as Chief People Officer. Taneja, 47, has over 25 years of experience in diverse industry sectors and has worked in HR leadership positions across leading Indian and international companies. Read More Jet Airways, India's premier international airline, announced special offers on Economy and Premiere fares for guests travelling on the airlines international network. Read More GoAir is flying four additional flights on Jaipur-Delhi and Chandigarh-Delhi routes. The flights will operate from February 22 - 24. GoAir will continue to monitor the situation in North India and will make necessary amendments for passengers convenience. Read More SpiceJet, the countrys favourite low-fare airline, is all set to kick start its Pre-Summer Sale with red hot fares across its domestic network. The airlines summer bonanza offers one-way base fare as low as Rs. 599/- for all its non-stop flights across its domestic network. Read More Jet Airways, India's premier international airline, is expanding its operations to Bangkok with the launch of new daily flights from its hubs in Mumbai and Delhi. Read More Industrialist Mukesh Ambani remains India's richest person with a surge of 30% in his net worth to $26 billion, pushing his global rank to 21st on a worldwide rich list topped by Bill Gates, according to Hurun Global Rich List 2016 report. The total number of billionaires from India has risen to 111, consolidating the country's third position after China and the US, according to Hurun Global Rich List 2016. The number of the world's billionaires grew by 99 to 2,188, which is a new world record. Read more Fitch Ratings has lowered the oil and natural gas price assumptions it uses to rate energy companies, reflecting our view that prices are increasingly unlikely to recover this year. Read More Generally, its been the oil producers that had controlling powers in all oil-related global transactions. But with the steep 60% plus fall in oil prices, the producers are more concerned about protecting their market shares than just increasing revenues. Read More Omer Dormen, MD, Castrol India attended an interview with ET Now where he talked about his companys performance in the competitive market. Read More The Government has named Atanu Chakraborty, Managing Director of Gujarat State Petroleum Corp (GSPC) as the Director General of Directorate General of Hydrocarbon (DGH). Read More The Government, through Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserve Limited is setting up strategic crude oil reserves with storage capacity of 5.33 Million Metric Tonnes at three locations, viz, Visakhapatnam (1.33 MMT), Mangalore (1.5 MMT) and Padur (2.5 MMT). Read More With India and its northern neighbour China surpassing major oil buyers like Japan and United States, in becoming the largest oil consumer, Asias oil markets are undergoing an upheaval, indicating a flux, says a Reuters report. Read More The Minister of State (I/C) for Petroleum & Natural Gas Dharmendra Pradhan informed the Rajya Sabha in a written reply that according to World Energy Outlook-2015, a recent release of International Energy Agency. Read More During an interview with the CNBC TV-18, ONGCs Director- Finance AK Srinivasan explained as how an overhaul in current cess tructure will translate into an uptick in the companys sales. Read More India has been the lucky beneficiary of falling crude oil prices. Compared to 2014-15, the oil import bills are set to half due to the price fall. Read More While there are billions of reasons to cut output, and every major producing country is reeling from the loss of revenues, some are weathering the current bust better than others, but the devil is in the details, and the details contain tons of variables. Read More Iran's return to the global oil market will add supply to an oversaturated market, but the country faces challenges in ramping up its production, says Moody's Investors Service. Read More A consortium of Oil & Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) and an arm of Essar Energy have struck natural gas in the Mumbai High fields. Read More Innoviti Payment Solutions and Orpak, announced a partnership to drive Indias largest payment automation project at BPCL. Under this project 6500 outlets of BPCL (almost 50% of BPCLs retail base) will be automated using Innovitis payments platform uniPAY, closely integrated with Orpaks fuel automation system. Read More Global oil prices have made multi-year lows in recent times. But unfortunately, India has not benefitted as much as from this fall as many other countries. Read More Venezuela's state oil company PDVSA may clinch a deal for Oil and Natural Gas Corp to invest some $500 mn in their San Cristobal joint venture. Read More The indigenous crude oil production (including condensate) during January, 2016 was 3037.537 TMT, which is 4.34% lower than the target for the month and 4.64% lower than the production during corresponding period of last year. Read More The deepening oil price slump will intensify pressure on banks globally, with those in major net oil-exporting countries most exposed to credit risks in the near-term, said Moody's Investors Service. Read More Moody's Investors Service (Moody's) concluded rating reviews on 12 US B-rated exploration and production (E&P) companies. Read More Moody's Investors Service says that in its current review of the ratings of national oil companies (NOC) in South and Southeast Asia, companies with ratings higher than their sovereigns face a higher risk of downgrade when compared with NOCs rated at par with their sovereigns. Read More Abbott Indias Managing Director, Rehan A Khan has resigned from the company today. His resignation shall be effective close of business hours on April 30, 2016.Rehan A. Khan in his letter dated February 29, 2016 tendered resignation as the Managing Director and Director of the company to pursue career opportunities overseas, said the company in a BSE filing.Rehan joined Abbott India in May 2012 as Managing Director. Prior to the current role, he was General Manager and Country Head of Abbott Nutrition business in India. Rehan has 19 years of commercial experience in India, US, UK, and Continental Europe (Switzerland, Germany, Holland, Sweden) in general management, marketing and sales, strategic planning, and private equity/operations. Prior to joining Abbott Nutrition India, Rehan was with AstraZeneca India as VP Sales & Marketing, Speciality Care. Rehan is an alumnus of the Harvard Business School, he has an MSc in Biomedical Sciences from Harvard/MIT (Harvard MIT Division of Health Sciences), an MBA from Drexel University and a BS from the University of Wisconsin - Madison.Meanwhile, Kaiyomarz Marfatia has ceased to be a Whole-Time Director of the company upon completion of his term with effect from February 29, 2016. He continues as the Non-Executive Director of the company, subject to retirement by rotation. AirAsia Berhad reported its results for the quarter ended 31 December 2015 (4Q15). Malaysia AirAsia posted quarterly revenue of RM2.17 billion, up 47% from the revenue reported in the same quarter last year. The strong revenue recorded was on the back of a 10% year-on-year (YoY) growth in the number of passengers carried at 6.47 million which was ahead of the 1% capacity growth, allowing the Company to record a high load factor of 85%, YoY growth of 7 percentage points (ppts). In 4Q15, AirAsia recorded strong operating profit of RM800.69 million (up 276% YoY) and net operating profit of RM694.33 million (up 620% YoY). During the quarter under review, the Company posted Revenue per Available Seat Kilometre (RASK) of 22.29 sen (up 40% YoY). RASK held up positively despite the Companys decision to remove fuel surcharge on 26 January 2015 and passing on the benefit of lower fuel price to consumers. Average fare similarly witnessed an increase to RM177 (up 4% YoY) on the back of strong and healthy demand. If excluding fuel surcharge, RASK for 4Q15 would have been up further at 59% YoY while average fare would have been up by around 26% YoY. Meanwhile, profit after tax for the period under review was a record breaking RM554.20 million (up 229% YoY). AirAsia Berhad CEO, Aireen Omar said, It was a very good quarter indeed for the Malaysian operations. The increase in RASK (including and excluding fuel surcharge) proved that lower fares stimulate the market as seen by the significant increase in the number of passengers that travelled with AirAsia who also received a windfall due to the removal of fuel surcharge. Meanwhile, ancillary revenue as a whole has increased by 14% YoY with the highest contributor coming from baggage (43% of total ancillary revenue) followed by cargo (10% of total ancillary revenue) and insurance (7% of total ancillary revenue). The highest growth seen among our ancillary products are AirAsia Insure (up 43% YoY) and connecting fees for our Flythru service (up 56% YoY). These led to the Company recording an ancillary income per pax of RM49 this quarter (up 4%), close to our near term target of RM50. The Companys cost, measured in terms of Cost per Available Seat Kilometre (CASK) was reported at 14.06 sen, up by 4% YoY. The slight increase in CASK was due to an additional 16 sale and leaseback aircraft undertaken throughout 2015 which led to an increase in aircraft operating lease expenses of 148% YoY. Meanwhile, maintenance and overhaul expenses increased by 53% YoY. As expected, the Company is a big beneficiary of the low fuel price environment. The decline in overall fuel expense by 15% YoY was on the back of 21% lower average fuel price at US$75 per barrel as compared to US$95 during the same period last year. This is despite the 7% increase in fuel consumption due to the increased number of flights and longer average stage length. On balance sheet, Aireen highlighted, As mentioned before, the management monitors the Companys net gearing level closely to ensure that it is constantly at a healthy and comfortable level. At the end of 4Q15, the Companys USD denominated borrowings has actually reduced by 6% from USD2.69 billion in 3Q15 to USD2.54 billion due to an additional sale and leaseback exercise on an older aircraft executed in 4Q15. Cash on the other hand has increased by 1% to RM2.43 billion. The Companys net gearing ratio therefore is at 2.29 times at the end of 4Q15, 23% lower compared to the previous quarter due to lower total debt and an increase in cash. AirAsia Group Consolidated Results of AirAsia Berhad and Associate Airlines Segment reporting of associates are included in the quarterly Bursa Announcement (Note 9). The operating segments have been identified by each Air Operating Certificate (AOC) held within the AirAsia Group (Group), and are categorised as Malaysia, Thailand, Indonesia, Philippines, India and Japan. The Group posted quarterly revenue of RM3.38 billion while operating profit for the Group was recorded at RM805.54 million and net operating profit for 4Q15 stands at RM675.90 million. The Groups profit before taxation for the quarter under review is recorded at RM332.44 million. On consolidation of accounts for the whole Group, the Companys auditor attempted to revisit their opinion on this matter and we are hopeful that the Group will be allowed to consolidate and therefore present a fairer view of the Groups performance and financial position. For the next quarter onwards, the Company shall disclose year-to-date segment reporting in addition to the current quarterly segment reporting in the notes section of the Bursa Announcement. Thailand Thai AirAsia (TAA) posted revenue of THB7.68 billion in 4Q15, a decrease of 3% from the same period last year while operating profit decreased by 32% YoY to THB585.19 million. This led the associate to post a profit after tax of THB542.96 million (down 32% YoY) in 4Q15. AirAsia Group CEO, Tony Fernandes commenting on TAAs performance, During the quarter, TAA recorded 17% YoY increase in passenger numbers with load factor increasing by 3 ppts to 82%. Revenue was slightly down YoY due to the drop in international passengers impacted by the explosion at the Ratchaprasong intersection on top of the bad haze situation in Southern Thailand. This led to a 12% decrease in RASK at THB1.59. Meanwhile, CASK reduced by 8% YoY to THB1.47 due to 21% drop in fuel expenses. Besides the impact of the depreciation in Baht, the increase in other costs such as maintenance and user charges are expected from a fast growing airline like TAA due to the increased number of flights and aircraft in operation. Indonesia Indonesia AirAsia (IAA) recorded revenue of IDR1.10 trillion in 4Q15, down 37% YoY which is in-line with the planned 34% decrease in capacity that led to the 33% decrease in the number of passengers carried. Load factor in general was recorded at a healthy level of 80%. During the quarter, IAA recorded an operating loss of IDR41.87 billion which led to a loss after tax of IDR1.09 trillion, mainly due to forex loss on weaker Rupiah YoY. Tony highlighted, IAAs turnaround plan is showing good signs especially on the cost side. Costs decreased 35% from a year ago mainly on lower fuel cost, aircraft lease rentals, maintenance and staff cost. The underlying strategy behind the turnaround plan in Indonesia is to remove in total seven aircraft from IAAs fleet size and redeploy them to the other associates which need the aircraft more. In 4Q15, three additional aircraft managed to be redeployed to MAA and AAI. To date, four aircraft have been redeployed and taken out of IAAs fleet and the benefits of this can be seen in the quarter under review where aircraft operating lease expense has reduced by 36% and maintenance and overhaul cost have decreased by 26%. Philippines Philippines AirAsia (PAA) posted a 51% increase in revenue at PHP2.29 billion and strong growth in the number of passenger (up 47% YoY). Capacity grew by 30% that has led to a 9 ppt increase in load factor. In addition to the 47% increase in ticket revenue, total ancillary revenue also experienced a 1% growth while cargo increased by 13%. This led to a good double digit growth of 21% in RASK at PHP2.01. CASK decreased by 25% to PHP2.11 on the back of lower aircraft related costs. Further guided by the managements turnaround plan, operating losses reduced to PHP110.64 million. Tony said, The cost reduction and refleeting exercise has enabled us to successfully almost break even this quarter. As a result operating losses came in 90% lower than the previous year and PAA experienced profitability in November and December while still posting a loss in 4Q15. Operational improvement has significantly lowered total losses which came in at PHP118.8 million or 91% lower than losses in 4Q2014. India AirAsia India (AAI) recorded a 232% increase in revenue at INR2.08 billion and strong capacity growth of 133% YoY. Meanwhile, average fare increased steadily by 12% to INR3,626 while ancillary revenue per passenger grew by 133% to INR492. Tony stressed, Our operations in India are geared to grow further after a year in service as we believe our low fares and excellent product appeals to travellers in India who remain underserved by air travel. Load factor improved to 84% amid heightened competition by other players while total passengers carried increased 134% YoY to 0.51 million passengers carried. During the quarter, AAI posted an operating loss of INR256.57 million. Outlook Commenting on the Companys outlook, Tony said, In Malaysia, we are benefiting from the weaker currency environment that has led to local consumers trading down when going on their travel and other nationalities looking at Malaysia as a value for money holiday destination. Regional destinations are also more appealing as compared to higher currency destinations such as Europe and North America. Meanwhile, we will continue to introduce new routes that primarily connect secondary airports across our vast network. Through our newly launched hub in Langkawi, we intend to introduce more unique routes which no other airlines fly and to improve connectivity across the region, giving travellers greater options. Adding on, demand from Chinese travellers has remained resilient and with the visa waiver initiative for Chinese nationals intending to visit Malaysia throughout 2016, this will significantly boost arrivals in the coming quarters. Similarly, fuel trended lower in the quarter which undoubtedly remains favourable for all airlines. We saw a great end to 2015 with record profitability and look to 2016 with a positive light. Adding on the outlook of cost environment, he said, As seen in 4Q15, we are beneficiary of the low fuel price. As of now, the Group has hedged 52% of its fuel requirement for 2016 at an average cost of USD59 per barrel on jet kero. Passing on this benefit to our passengers through the removal of fuel surcharge earlier last year proved to be rewarding with demand increasing double digit in 4Q15. On the associates operations, Tony highlighted, Our Thai operation continues to deliver results within expectations and is expected to sustain this strong growth as political stability has brought about the return of international travellers and reinvigorated the tourism industry. We will continue to see strong growth and numbers coming from TAA which is performing ahead of the industry and will sustain its leadership in the market. Whereas in Indonesia, he stressed, IAA will continue to right-size its fleet and network to minimise operational losses and stabilise the business, including the closure of underperforming hubs. Load factor is on target for January and has surpassed expectations in February. We are on track to reach load factor of 77% in the first quarter of the year and forecasting to sustain above 80% for the second quarter. Meanwhile, in the Philippines, we are proud to have turnaround our operations in this quarter and achieved figures close to breakeven. Looking forward, we anticipate a similar trend with revenue improvement of 25%-30% projected for 1Q16 versus 1Q15. In addition, our forecast shows high load factor in the current quarter, which coupled with low oil prices, is expected to allow us to continue achieving breakeven or even profitability in our Philippines operations in the coming months. We will be disciplined and continue with our planned retirement of two remaining inefficient aircraft in 1Q16 as well as matching capacity growth with demand while pushing forward with our plans to market the Philippines as an untapped tourist destination with great potential as part of the governments campaign to Visit the Philippines Again 2016. Commenting on India and Japan, Tony added AAI on the other hand will witness a new phase of growth. The associate will work towards keeping its cost under check, with increased focus on ancillary revenue. On top of these, we look forward to the re-launch of AirAsia Japan (AAJ) that has obtained its AOC and will officially re-commence operation in the market by first half of 2016. Japan will contribute significantly to our existing extensive network across Asia and will further cement AirAsia as the biggest low cost carrier in Asia. Scam email awareness Blog to aware internet users of Known Identity theft, scam emails and Advance Fee Frauds. Keep your Identity safe. All eyes will be on Union budget 2016, which will be presented amid shaky economic conditions. It will be biggest business and economic event where governments ability to walk o tight rope to strike a balance between the industry expectations and fiscal prudence will be tested.Current economic condition warrants the budget to focus on agriculture, banking and employment intensive unorganized sector. Here are some stocks which are likely to benefit from Union Budget 2016: Agriculture Sector : Jain Irrigation : Higher allocations to agriculture are expected in the upcoming budget. There are hopes that the government may raise expenditure on agriculture, given the distress in the farming sector. The company which will benefit if higher budgetary allocation is made as it is among the top players in micro irrigation systems, agro processed products, tissue culture plants and plastic pipes. Kaveri Seeds : Ignoring agriculture sector would be a major loss for the economy, as it has the potential to reboot India as a surviver in the weak economy. This budget focus is expected to revitalize the sector. If allocations made higher, the company is likely to benefit from the upcoming budget. Kaveri seeds Kaveri Seeds is a key stakeholder in fueling Green Revolution that begins with the seed, the most decisive input in agriculture. Infra to be in lime-lights : IRB Infrastructure Developers : Infrastructure sector is likely to be in lime-light during the budget. IRB is among major player in the BOT business and manages the prestigious Mumbai Pune Expressway. It has completed projects that are operational including Pune Nashik, Surat Dahisar, Pathankaot Amristar, Tumkur Chitradurga etc. If higher amount are allocated to the road sector during the budget 2016, would be a beneficiary factor. NCC : Government is expected to step up investment in the crucial infrastructure sector in the Union Budget for 2016-17 despite the extra burden of around Rs 1 lakh crore on account of the one-rank-one-pension and 7th Pay Commission recommendations. This is expected to benefit from NCC, which is established in operational and technical experience in the power, petrochemicals, oil & gas and refinery sectors. It has executed several prestigious projects and currently has five road projects , 380 MW of Hydro Electrical Projects, two non-metro airports, one sea port and its asset portfolio in different stages of development through concession route. Its subsidiary NCC Infra NCC Urban Infrastructure's has is present in residential and commercial complexes, townships, SEZs and serviced apartment complexes across Bangalore, Hyderabad, Kochi, Vizag, Guntur, Ranchi and Dubai. Larsen & Tourbo : Revival is expected to be seen in the year 2016-17. With Railway minster announcing on Railway budget 2016 for redevelopment of 400 stations, setting up freight corridors, to electrify 2,000 km of railway lines by FY17 and developing warehouses is an opportunity for the company. Further investments will be made in Infrastructure in the year 2016-17 which benefit stocks like Larsen & Tourbo. The company is a major technology, engineering, construction, manufacturing and financial services conglomerate, with global operations. PSU Banks in need for capitalization : State Bank of India : Recapitalization would be one reason for State Bank of India to revive from risen bad loans. The bank is hoping to turnaround its stressed assets into performing as soon as the major projects get back on their track. In the Economy survey which was two days ahead Union Budget, 2016, the ministry has laid down governments plan for infusion of capital of Rs. 70,000 crore for over next few year. Other PSUs such Andhra Bank, Allahabad Bank, Bank of Baroda, Bank of India, Indian Bank are hoping for some good news in the Union Budget 2016. At 10:38 AM, the S&P BSE Sensex is trading at 23,118 down 36 points, while NSE Nifty is trading at 7,017 down mere eight points.The BSE Mid-cap Index is trading down 0.37% at 9,537, whereas BSE Small-cap Index is trading down 0.14% at 9,542.SBI, ICICI Bank, Tata Steel, ONGC, Dr.Reddy's Lab and Sun Pharma are among the gainers, whereas ITC, GAIL, HUL, Cipla, Bharti Airtel and Adani Ports are losing sheen on BSE.Some buying activity is seen in realty, metal, banking, finance, basic materials and capital goods sectors, while FMCG, consumer durables and IT sectors are showing weakness on BSE.The INDIA VIX is up 0.50% at 21.9750. Out of 1,792 stocks traded on the NSE, 730 declined, 730 advanced and 363 remained unchanged today.A total of five stocks registered a fresh 52-week high in trades today, while 83 stocks touched a new 52-week low on the NSE.The Indian rupee opened lower by 7 paisa at 68.69/$ on Monday as against previous close of 68.62/$. On Friday, rupee remained weak in the offshore NDF markets, weighed by the strength in greenback against the basket of currencies.ITC slipped 1.4% to Rs.287 on BSE. The expectations are that there will be a likely increase in excise duty on cigarette. According to reports, tobacco products may again attract higher taxes in the upcoming Union Budget 2016-17. Highlighting a discrepancy between the existing tobacco prices and rising income levels, the health ministry along with the World Health Organisation (WHO) and other public health groups have proposed a hike in taxes of up to 40% for all tobacco products, as per reports.UltraTech Cement gained 1% to Rs. 2,795 on BSE. The company will acquire Jaiprakash Associates' cement factories in six states for an enterprise value of Rs. 16,500 crore, among the biggest distress sales of assets as India's banks get proactive on bad loans.Andhra Bank jumped 1.5% to Rs.47.55 on BSE. The bank has informed BSE that the Board of Directors of the Bank has approved raising of equity capital by issuance of 2,88,53,210 equity shares of Rs. 10/- each for cash at Rs. 47.30p. per share (including premium of Rs. 37.30p. per share) as may be determined by the Board in accordance with regulation 76(4) of SEBI (ICDR) Regulations, 2009 and aggregating upto Rs. 136.48 Crore on preferential basis to Life Insurance Corporation of India subject to Shareholders' approval at the Extraordinary General Meeting proposed to be held on March 21, 2016. The Coca-Cola Company is looking to sell its capital-intensive bottling operations in India at a valuation of US$1 billion as it focuses on brands, marketing and strategy, reports a business daily."Coca-Cola plans to start talks with large industrial houses for the potential divestment. The deal could take 12-18 months to close," says the financial newspaper.Hindustan Coca-Cola Beverages (HCCB) has 24 plants. It is in charge of bottling and distribution of Coca-Cola Company's beverages in India, along with 13 franchisee bottlers who together have 24 additinal plants.HCCB bottles 65% of Coca-Cola Company's total volume in India.Coca-Cola India supplies concentrate to all bottlers and is responsible for marketing, strategy and R&D.The proposed sale of the bottling business marks a reversal of the strategy by Coca-Cola Company from what it followed at the time of its return to India in 1993 after a 17-year absence, reports the paper.The acquisition of Parle's beverage business gave Coca-Cola Company access to bottling, distribution infrastructure and a 60% share of the market. It also inherited 55 Parle bottlers as franchisees.Coca-Cola then launched a process to buy out the franchisee bottlers, with some of them resisting the company's moves, reports the paper. Car market leader Maruti Suzuki India (MSI) has started shipping its premium hatchback Baleno to Europe, ahead of the formal launch of the model by its Japanese parent Suzuki Motor Corp. (PTI)Nissan's global production in Jan dips first time in nine months. Sales outside Japan increased 1.2% yoy to 395,612 units, the ninth consecutive month of increase and a record for the month of January. In Europe, sales decreased 14.3% yoy to 52,664 units while in China, sales increased 9.4% yoy to 1,27,306 units, a record for the month of January. (IndiaInfoline)Daimler said the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) had requested information from its luxury car brand Mercedes-Benz to explain emissions levels in some of its cars. (Reuters)The biggest engineering feat on display when Volkswagen unveils its new concept car on Tuesday will be the team developing it: a post-Dieselgate management system crafted to operate faster, cheaper and with a lighter grip on the wheel. (Reuters)Nissan shares surged as much as 12 percent at the start of trade on Monday as investors cheered the company's announcement to buy back shares. (AFP)While waiting for the much-discussed future of driverless cars to arrive, European automakers are focusing on tried-and-tested sales winners at this year's Geneva International Auto Show - rolling out the small SUVs that are increasingly replacing hatchbacks and sedans in people's driveways. (AP)Lamborghini Squadra Corse is ready to take up a new challenge: the 12 Hours of Sebring, another classic American endurance race, valid for the IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Challenge, which will take place in Florida from March 16th - 19th. (IndiaInfoline) : UltraTech Cement will acquire Jaiprakash Associates' cement factories in six states for an enterprise value of Rs. 16,500 crore, among the biggest distress sales of assets as India's banks get proactive on bad loans.Anil Agarwal-promoted Vedanta has bagged the prospective-cum-mining licence to mine gold from Baghmara lease in Chhattisgarh, reports a business daily.: Reliance Communications is planning to combine its wireless business with Aircel and both parent companies will hold 50% each, according to reports.: Gammon India said three of its lenders including IDBI bank have decided to convert loans worth Rs 22.25 crore into equity.: Officials from key domestic gas buyers, including Gail and Indian Oil Ltd. (IOL), are planning to visit Iran in early March to discuss the proposed undersea gas pipeline between Iran and India, reports a business daily.: Indias largest airline by market share, IndiGo announce that Airbus has confirmed that beginning with March 2016, it will deliver 24 fuel efficient A320neo aircraft by March of 2017 as compared to the original plan to deliver 26 A320neos.: SBI has received shareholders approval to raise up to Rs. 15,000 crore by public issue or overseas issuance of shares.: Jet Airways has decided to consolidate its existing position by maximising aircraft utilisation instead of adding more new planes, reports a financial newspaper.The Reserve Bank of India has notified that Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs)/Registered Foreign Portfolios Investors (RFPIs) can now invest up to 40 per cent of the paid up capital of Panyam Cements & Mineral Industries Limited under the Portfolio Investment Scheme (PIS).: United Spirits Ltd (USL) management has said that the loan recovery process from Vijay Mallya-controlled United Breweries Holdings Ltd (UBHL) will continue.NTPC Ltd. is planning to expand its power generation capacity in southern India, NTPC's ED for South India, R Venkateswaran has been quoted as saying.: Hindustan Unilever announced certain changes in its management structure. Samir Singh, currently Vice-President & ED, Personal Care, will be taking over as the global Executive Vice-President, Skin Cleansing at Unilever.: Indian Hotels Company Ltd has announced that Samsara Properties Limited, Company's indirect overseas wholly owned subsidiary, has sold, through market transactions, 1,270,715 (One million two hundred seventy thousand seven hundred fifteen only) Class A Common Shares of the face value of US$ 0.01 each of Belmond Limited, representing 1.24% of the total outstanding Class A Common Shares for a net consideration of US$ 11.96 million. The sale proceeds are being utilized for retirement of debt. Seeking a rise of 250 per cent year-on-year (YoY), the Telecom Ministry has asked for a planned Budget outlay of Rs. 18,214.32 crore for the financial year 2016-17, as per news reports.A demand of Rs. 8,230 crore has been made for implementing the project of defense service network which was approved in 2009. The project entails building an exclusive dedicated alternate communication network for defence services so that the military can free the spectrum for offering mobile services, as per the report.Revised estimate for the current fiscal for the aforesaid project was at Rs 2,220 crore, the report said.Telecom Ministry though its proposal, has also asked to allocate Rs.7,350 crore as against approved revised estimate of Rs. 3,100 crore for the Universal Obligation Fund,which focuses on increasing infrastructure as also enlarging telecom coverage in rural as well as remote areas, as per the report. Jogging memories of family members, wiping the dust off his autobiographies, speaking to his well wishers and peers is what pushed me to revive Bapujis name. It is astonishing, to say the least, how differently people who knew him closely, remember him as opposed to the opinion that the general public share. The stereotypes that defined Morarji Desai seem to fade away once you got to know him. thehindu A stubborn man with a stern demeanor, a man who stuck to his ideas and principles regardless of the situation and a man of obstinacy and discipline that lived almost a century. This is how history remembers Morarji Desai. But should it be just that? This year we remember Bapuji, as we call him at home, on his 120th birth anniversary. Though he had only 25 birthdays since he was born on the 29th of February, he lived up to the ripe old age of 99. To put things into perspective, he was around during the World War I and II, was a freedom fighter in the Indian Independence struggle and the Nav Nirman movement and also lived long enough to see his finance secretary, Dr. Manmohan Singh liberalize the countrys economy. It was supposedly common knowledge that once Morarjibhai had made up his mind, it was impossible to change it. Right or wrong he stuck by it regardless of the situation. History will cite many situations to prove the same. But this was quickly dismissed by Shanti Bhushan, the law minister in his cabinet and practicing senior advocate at the Supreme Court of India, in his conversation with me, When a cabinet minister had a view which differed from Morarjibhais, he didnt impose his views and dismiss it. If logic and reasoning was shown then he would go with the opinion of the minister and not his own. Rediff What was confused for being adamant was his deep-rooted belief in what was right and wrong. Good and bad. Bapuji always stuck by his core principles. They werent founded on a whim; they grew from the struggles through his life at a very young age, his mentoring and inspiration from Mahatma Gandhi and his devotion to God. In fact, he knew the Bhagavat Gita verbatim and always turned to it when in doubt. Reputed journalist, Karan Thapar in one of his columns once called Morarji Desai the most hated man in Doon School when he came to visit in 1968 as the chief guest. Why? Because he insisted on delivering his speech in Hindi and criticized the boys for shaking his hand instead of the traditional Namaste As a nationalist, Bapuji insisted that we as a nation should not lose our ethnic culture. It was his firm belief that our culture set us apart as a people. He travelled extensively and would boast of our rich heritage and culture every chance he got. He led by example, by wearing Khadi he spun himself, speaking only in Gujarati at home and eating simple vegetarian food besides praying, practicing yoga and reciting the Gita everyday. However he never imposed his personal belief on his family members, and for generations we have been allowed to attend English medium schools and be children of our respective times. At the same time, Bapuji would make his opinions known and felt, like he did in Doon school. Hated or not, it wasnt his concern. However something that he thought was not in the best interest of the nation, was his concern. flickr Ask anyone close to Morarji Desai and the one thing that made him stand apart from mere mortals was his undying will power. Bapuji went on a fast four times in his life; every time was a fast unto death for a cause that was worth dying for. 1974 was one such incident when the then Prime Minister, Indira Gandhi refused to dissolve the Gujarat assembly which had lead to a non-political student agitations and continuous, wide spread violence all over Gujarat. On the fourth day of his fast, the advisor to the Governor, Shri Sarin came to communicate to Morarjibhai that the assembly would be dissolved. Bapuji was elated, he walked down from his room in the Gujarat Vidhyapith guesthouse to address the overwhelming crowd that had come to see him. He spoke to them and conveyed the good news, the crowd was ecstatic, but right after his speech, some students in the crowd found out that Shri Sarin was in Bapujis room and started shouting continuously We want Sarin, we want Sarin. Bapuji was afraid that if the crowd got to him, he would be hurt. So he stood at the entrance of the guesthouse, blocking their way 25, 000 people beating down on his seventy eight year old body that had fasted for four days, but he did not let anyone pass. When they managed to push him aside, he ran to the bottom of the stairwell and held the crowd from there. He did this for more than half and hour and only when it was communicated to him that Shri Sarin had escaped from the back door, did he let go. He attributed this great personal feat to the will of God. blogspot For Morarji Desai, freedom of democracy and freedom that our Constitution guarantees the people was paramount. During the dark days of Emergency, Morarji Desai was kept under house arrest. After being kept in a government house for over a year, Indira Gandhi sent one of her followers to make him an offer that she thought he would not refuse an offer to set the political prisoners free as long as they adhered to everything she had to say. After all which man wouldnt want his own freedom before anything else? He sent the follower back to the Prime minister with a message, Keep your offers. I will outlive you anyway. He did. He strongly believed that, Material and physical comfort without human freedom is sufficient only for well-fed domestic animals and birds. It is not so for men. In the year 1978, the Prime ministers plane crashed in the forests of Assam. The pilots died on the spot, my grandfather Kantibhais leg was hanging by a few ligaments. After being rescued, he addressed the nation, attended parliament and continued his work. About a week after the crash, my grandmother, Padmaben while attending to him saw that the left side of his chest was black and blue, his pen had pressed against his chest and cracked three ribs during the crash, he had told no one. He was 82, and still continued his work unfazed. The media reported, Morarji unhurt. These are interesting stories of Bapuji that shed new light on his life. But what makes him relevant today is what he achieved over thirty years ago. photodivision Indias relations with Pakistan have always been strained, especially during the 1970s after the liberation of East Pakistan, so the events that unfurled at the state funeral of Jomo Kenyatta in Kenya, was bewildering to say the least The President of Pakistan and the Prime Minister India sat down to have peace talks. At this historic meeting, Morarji Desai told the Pakistani President Zia ul -Haq, There should be give and take. If we act in the interests of both our countries, there will be no conflict. We should act like brothers. I am your elder brother. I have nothing to take from you, I have everything to give. Bapuji built a relation of trust and faith with Pakistan. Both countries had a history suspicion that had to be broken something that Bapuji understood and nurtured. But if anything happens, you will be held responsible. I am not someone who simply talks. I take action. The words of a politician are rarely binding, but this was not the case with Bapuji and the Pakistani head of state understood and respected him for it. Though building relations between the neighbour states was important, Morarji Desai was a true nationalist and would not accept any sort of compromise on the sovereignty and integrity of his nation. In fact, his relations with Pakistan were truly understood by the world in the December of 2010 when a wiki leaks cable stated that when Morarji Desai spoke to an American official, he said, If Pakistan has nuclear bombs, we will smash them! and he truly meant it. Cordial relations between otherwise sparring neighbors did not mean Morarji Desai was a soft Prime Minister, he was tough and everyone knew it. Years after Morarji Desai retired form politics, the people of Pakistan honored the first Indian with the Nishan E Pakistan, Pakistans highest civilian award. indiatoday In todays context, most people who lived in late 70s India will remember Morarjibhais days as prime minster, with fond memories of affordable prices for essential. In 1977, India wasnt growing at 8% we did not have billions of dollars in reserves, But we managed to feed our people, without burning a hole through their pockets. During his premiership, the prices of essential food commodities were successfully maintained, so that they were affordable by the common man especially the price of sugar and oil that were the cheapest. People remember him as the person that made ration shops irrelevant. Unbelievable, The price of sugar and oil at the market and the ration shops were the same. These were some of his contributions as prime minister over the course of 2 and a half years, leading the countries first coalition government. True to his Gandhian roots Bapuji insisted on being among to the people even while holding the highest political office in the country. oshosatsang Once, while Bapuji was walking out of his residence, a young boy of 10 managed to squeeze through security, because he wanted to greet Morarjibhai. The police officer on duty apologized to Bapuji after quickly removing the boy, the police officer that did so was reprimanded. Bapuji insisted on meeting everyone that wanted to meet him, he made no exceptions; While he occupied the office of Prime Minister, he continued spending ten days in the Gujarat Vidhyapith, where he was the Chancellor. During his stay in Ahmedabad, he would address the public, first orating and interpreting the Gita, and then allowing for questions to be asked of any nature, he answered everyone from farmers to teachers all of whom had come to attend the discourse, not just journalists. Once back in Delhi, he replied by hand to postcards that he received as Prime Minister. Bapuji believed in giving due credit where it was deserved, the driver of Bapujis car, Kishwari had served him since the very beginning of his political career. One day when he returned from the Parliament, he removed his Nehru cap and jacket and left the compound, no one, including his security knew where he was going which was quite often the case. He was heading to the servants quarters where the drivers mother lived. He visited their house, sat next to her on a plastic chair for 5 minutes and appreciated her for raising a boy with such fine values. blogspot The people of India had given the Janata Party a clear mandate in the 1977 elections. He holds the distinction of being Indias first non-congress Prime minister and this obviously entailed a lot of in fighting, as a coalition government was unprecedented. He resigned just two and half years later on grounds that he would not hold on to power by any means necessary by wooing defectors and resorting to undemocratic means. His office as the Prime minister of India did not matter, how best he could serve the country was more important to him. And holding on to a seat of power for dear life was against the democratic principles, that he stood for. Retirement from active politics did not signal the end of the line for Bapuji. He strove to push himself, he never stopped learning or studying, like he always had and continued even up to the age of 99. At home, there would always be three newspapers in front of him and he would meet people in the evenings, to keep himself updated. Making sure he did not stay disconnected from his surroundings. After serving as Indias first non- congress Prime minister, Deputy Prime minister, longest serving finance minister and chief minister of Bombay state, he donated all his earthly belongings, including Indias highest civilian honour, the Bharat Ratna and the Nishan E Pakistan along with the Rs. One lakh that he made over the years to the Gujarat Vidhyapith, where they are still preserved so that they would be appreciated by the people he had worked for and not for his family to hold on to as trophies. Bapuji never compromised on his principles and integrity. At a time when no one thought it could be done, he brought disciple and credibility to the highest office of this democracy. He lived his entire life in service to a people of whom he was always one. In my eyes, his relevance in the evolution of Indian polity has become increasingly significant today. The values and principles, he strived to uphold all his live, in face of utmost adversities are the crying needs of our times. For me, Morarji Desai was more than just the Prime Minister of India. Days after allegations of rape and molestation by Jat quota agitators near Haryana's Murthal, a woman on Sunday registered a case of gang rape against seven people, including her brother-in-law, in connection with the incident. abplive Read Also: Haryana Govt Denies Any Gang Rapes Happened During Jat Protest In Murthal. HC Takes Note, Acts! "An FIR has been lodged against seven persons in connection with a gang rape on the basis of a complaint filed by a Narela-based woman today," Haryana Police, DIG, Rajshree Singh told reporters. She said the victim had alleged she was raped on the intervening night of February 22-23 and the perpetrators included her brother-in-law. The complainant said she knew all of them. The officer, who heads a three-member team of women police officers constituted by the Haryana government to go into alleged incidents of rape and molestation of several women by Jat protesters, however, said a "family dispute" could be the reason behind the woman filing the complaint. The officer said the victim was not sure about the exact scene of the crime but claimed she was raped in a building near Murthal when she was on way to Narela in Delhi from Haridwar on a van. The woman, however, said her 15-year-old daughter who was accompanying her, was not raped but her clothes were torn. The DIG said the woman had called her up on Saturday and her statement was recorded a day later. oneindia Read Also: Police And Army Deny Mass Gang Rape At Murthal, But Witnesses Claim They Saw Women's Clothes Being Ripped Off Singh said said most of the complaints she was receiving were from men who claimed their vehicles had been damaged by the agitators. Earlier, some locals, including truck drivers, had claimed they had seen women being dragged to the fields by the protesters. TV channels showed footage of garments worn by women strewn in some places. ndtvimg Some village heads had, however, trashed their claims and described it as an attempt to defame the people of the area. Earlier in the day, three truck drivers had denied having witnessed any incident of sexual assault or rape even as Chief Minister M L Khattar said the guilty shall not go unpunished. Read Also: More Eyewitnesses Emerge In Murthal Gang Rape As Police Forms Special Probe Committee Harsev Bains, a British national, who was travelling through Murthal on February 24th has now come out saying that he had witnessed what could have been the evidence of the gang rape reported there last week. This is how Bains described what he saw on that day. On 24 Feb as we drove on NH1 approaching Murthal from Punjab, we witnessed a most gruesome sight. We had decided to journey back to Delhi a few days earlier than planned to take advantage of the break in the agitation. The sides of the road were littered with burnt out buses, cars and trucks. Some of these had clearly been removed from the road. The charred road surface uncovered by any dust. The road to Delhi was worse for effect. The thought that we could have been among those effected sent a chill down my spine. The hotel widows and outside ornaments were smashed and burnt. Clothing and possible personal belongings of the victims of the violence were being picked by scavengers. A lady was seen chopping away at a tree with female clothing laying on the ground. As we parked at a dhaba across the road and opened the door, the unpleasant smell of burning and possible burnt remains filled our nostrils. The tension at the Dhaba where we had stopped five days earlier in a more relaxing atmosphere was still evident. There was talk of the inaction by CRPF and local police; apparently waiting for orders to act. Allegedly the Police had itself fled into the fields for self protection. Others feared the return of the agitators and accompanying goons. I did not take photographs of lady' s clothing as I had not fully appreciated the significance of the attacks upon women that have reportedly taken place. Was the burning smell of flesh linked to these attacks? Our initial reaction was that we were passing by an open crematorium! A number of those effected had absolutely nothing to do with the agitators demands and were possibly like us. Ordinary working people on their way back to Delhi or on their way to Punjab. Haryana Police had on Sunday registered the first FIR in the case, based on a complaint by a woman from Delhi. According to reports, at least ten women were sexually attacked during the shut-down enforced by the Jat community, demanding reservation. Indian Space Research Organization chairman AS Kiran Kumar on Sunday signalled the country's readiness for Chandrayaan II mission, which will be India's second mission to the moon. Chandrayaan II is an advanced version of the previous Chandrayaan-1 mission. It consists of an orbiter, lander and rover configuration. It is planned to be launched as a composite stack into the earth parking orbit (EPO) of 170 X 18,500 km by GSLV-Mk II. ytimg Kiran Kumar, who was in the city to participate in an international conference on startups, incubators and entrepreneurship, and National Science Day at Yenepoya University said the orbiter carries the combined stack up to the moon till the lunar orbit insertion (LOI). The combined stack is then inserted into a lunar orbit of 100 km x 100 km. The lander is separated from the orbiter in this orbit. The orbiter with scientific payloads will orbit around the moon. The lander will soft land on the moon at a specified site and deploy the rover. The scientific payloads onboard the orbiter, lander and rover are expected to perform mineralogical and elemental studies of the lunar surface. In 2010, it was agreed that Russian Space Agency ROSCOSMOS will be responsible for lunar lander and Isro will be responsible for orbiter and rover as well as the launch by GSLV, a note on Chandrayaan II on Isro website said. ndtv Later, due to a shift in the programmatic alignment of this mission, it was decided that the lunar lander development will be done by Isro and Chandrayaan-2 will be totally an Indian mission. Kiran Kumar, who is credited with the development of key scientific instruments aboard the Chandrayaan I and Mangalyaan space crafts gave an insight on achievements and contributions made by the scientists at Isro including the Chandrayaan I and Mangalyaan. shanepedia Isro chief told students that Isro makes available the data collected by them to the students for research work at their website. Students had an inquisitive interactive session with Kiran Kumar after his address. Yenepoya Abdulla Kunhi, chancellor, Yenepoya University graced the occasion. Shree Kumar Menon, director, Yenepoya University proposed vote of thanks. Earlier, Dr Akhter Hussein, secretary of Islamic Academy of Education, welcomed the gathering. (This article was updated at 3:27PM Thursday 03 March) Eighteen-year-old Sataparna Mukherjee, a Class 12 student from a village around 30km from Kolkata, claims to have been selected by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) for its prestigious Goddard Internship Programme under the Goddard Institute for Space Studies (GISS). She is among five scholars chosen from across the world for this programme. However, later conflicting versions to the story have emerged. bangaloremirror Nasa's GIP selects five exceptional individuals from across the world every year and funds their entire education after school. Sataparna, who will appear for her school-leaving exams this year from St Judes School, Madhyamgram, in Kamduni - it gained notoriety for a brutal gang rape in 2013 - will be at Oxford University, where she she will pursue graduation, post-graduation and PhD (as NASA faculty) in aerospace engineering at its London Astrobiology Centre. Sataparna told TOI, "It all started in May last year when I was a member of a group on a social networking site where there were many members, including some scientists. One day I shared some of my thoughts on 'Black Hole Theory', and one of the members of this group gave me Nasa's official website and told me to post my findings, which I did." Sataparna's paper on Black Hole Theory, and how this could be used to create a 'Time Machine', was hugely appreciated. "I am very happy to get this opportunity where I will also work as a researcher at the Nasa centre in London," she said. Under the Goddard Internship Programme, Sataparna will work as an "employee and researcher", where she will be part of its earth science and technology development programme. NASA is paying her a generous sum as honorarium, apart from bearing all her expenses. callingtoncc Her father Pradip Mukheree, a headmaster of a primary school who led a people's movement against goons and political pressure to drop the infamous June 2013 Kamduni gang-rape case, said, "She has made us, and the entire country, proud." Pulak Chakraborty, a professor of English at the Nabagram Hiralapal College, who's acting as Sataparna's referee at Oxford, said, "She is a very good student and her ability should not be judged through her marks alone. She is original, and that has made her attain so much." "She is going on August 17," said Pradip. "Though every cost is borne by the university and NASA, we will arrange for the passage money, which is quite high. I am thinking of taking a loan because I don't want to let this opportunity go," he said. (UPDATE) After her story went viral on media, many however expressed doubts on the authenticity of her claims. HuffingtonPost India reported that in an e-mail, NASA Goddard Institute for Space Studies, clarified that they neither have any record of a student by that name nor do they have a facility in London. "We have no record of any student named Sataparna Mukherjee being granted an internship, scholarship or any form of academic or financial assistance from our institute. Furthermore, the Goddard Institute for Space Studies has no facilities in London and all of our internships are awarded to students who live within 50 miles of our location in New York City. The application deadline for our 2016 students closed March 1. We have not made any selections yet," the mail read. NOTE: Indiatimes is still trying to ascertain the reality of this story. This article will be updated when we receive any further information. Back home, after being 'Prime Minister for a day', Punjabi origin Brampton teen PJ (Prabjote) Lakhanpal pinched himself to see if it was true. ''It was amazing to go to Parliament Hill in Ottawa as prime minister for a day. No one in any other country can even envisage something like this. I never expected all this even in my wildest dreams," he says excitedly. Wordpress Talking over phone from his home in Brampton, cancer survivor PJ says, "I want to pursue law at Osgood Hall Law School. My ultimate goal is to be a politician, my nations' leader, so that I may serve the people in a better way." He says he is thankful to the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Canada which made his dream come true. "You know, I've battled cancer. There's nothing worse than that. So, I'm ready to take this on in the future," youth says. Here's Another Young Guy Whose Wish You Can Help Fulfil PJ Lakhanpal's parents and grandparents had migrated from India to Canada from a small town of Punjab, Mandi Ahmedgarh. His father Surinder Mohan Singh Lakhanpal known as Surinder Lakhanpal says," I came to Canada in 1988 and now run an auto mechanic shop here." punjabupdate This moment of happiness has come Lakhanpals' way after three anxiety-ridden years after PJ was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, a form of cancer affecting the body's immune system. Make A Wish Foundation Chooses PJ About two and a half years ago, when he was in the hospital, The Make-A-Wish Foundation that grants wishes of children with life-threatening medical conditions, made him a candidate for the foundation. Surinder said after they were informed that PJ's wish had been granted, he along with his wife and daughter accompanied PJ to Ontario. When they disembarked at Toronto Airport at 6.30 pm, the Guards of RCMP and officebearers of Make-A-Wish Foundation welcomed them. "In a convoy, they took us to the Chateau Laurier hotel near Parliament Hill where PJ stayed in the presidential suite while we stayed in other room." Surinder says, "Next day PJ was welcomed by 28th Governor General of Canada David Johnston, who heard his vision for the country." During the visit, the Governor General also tweeted, "I was pleased to have Prime Minister 'PJ' @RideauHall. A leader in our nation. #pjspmwish." Wordpress "In his hometown Mandi Ahmedgarh, no one knew that PJ belongs to this town. His uncle Balvir Singh, who has a repair shop near bus stand says, "Our family came to know from a relative that PJ was 'PM of Canada for a day." Ahoy, Potterheads! As you might be aware, next year will mark the twentieth anniversary of Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone. But before you rush to dig out your old copy to revisit the magical land of Hogwarts, know this - you may literally be sitting on a gold mine! malikammar/wordpress Yes. According to online book marketplace, AbeBook, your old copies of J.K. Rowling's first edition of hardback Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone may be valued at $40,000 to $55,000! Because these were credited to 'Joanne Rowling' and not J.K. Rowling, and out of the 500 published copies 300 went into public libraries, these books are literally exclusive. Also, if the print line reads '10 9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1', you have hit a jackpot! natedsanders.com If your copy of Harry Potter and the Chamber of Secrets carries a personal autograph by the writer herself, then the book can fetch you up to four figures! If your copy of Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban is credited to Joanne, carries the print line, and has a misaligned text on page seven, then you can sell your edition for up to $12,000. Look for Jo's signature in Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire and Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix, and they can fetch you a four-figure amount as well. And lastly, if your Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince copies were also signed by Jo, you can put them on sale for $5,000. tumblr So there you go. The only question that now remains is - will you be willing to sell your prized treasure for money? Follow us on budget 2016 air india to receive rs 1 713 crore govt funding New Delhi: National carrier Air India, which is expected to slash its net losses by around 40 per cent this fiscal, will receive Rs 1,713 crore government funding for the next fiscal. In the Union Budget for the 2016-17 financial year, presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Lok Sabha today, the Government-run carrier has been allocated Rs 1,713 crore as part of the Rs 30,0231 crore financial bailout package. The total outlay for the Civil Aviation Ministry stands at Rs 4,417 crore for the fiscal 2016-17. Organisation such as Airports Authority of India, Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Pawan Hans Ltd, Bureau of Civil Aviation, among others, come under the Civil Aviation Ministry. Significantly, Air India had earlier this year sought Rs 4,300 crore worth funds from the government for the financial year, starting April 1, 2016 amid its turnaround plan and stiff competition. The airline is surviving on a Rs 30,231 crore bailout package extended by the previous UPA government in 2012 for a period of up to March 31, 2021. Under the Turnaround Plan (TAP), which runs till March 2021, it has already received Rs 22,280 crore including Rs 3,300 crore in the ongoing fiscal. Minister of State for Civil Aviation Mahesh Sharma had last week said that Air India losses were expected to come down by 40 per cent to Rs 3,529.80 crore by March this year. The airline had in the financial year ended March 31, 2015, reported a net loss of Rs 5,859.91 crore. However, its debt burden stood at Rs 51,367.07 crore, including Rs 22,574.09 crore outstanding on account of aircraft loans, in the previous financial year. Latest Business News Follow us on oscar 2016 google releases new ad for android New Delhi: Google is back on Oscars with its new android commercial, with a slogan that says Be together. Not the same'. Google has shown Rock, Paper and Scissors as friends to promote Android's diversity. This is the second ad in the current series, where Google has used different elements to promote Android's diversity. The commercial is called "Rock, Paper, Scissors," that has three historical enemies who are learning to be friends with each other. Also Google might be giving some hidden message to its hardware partners Samsung, LG and HTC, saying that they can stand together against the fight with Apple. The recent Gartner research numbers suggest that with Android and iOS leading, it is still a two-horse race in the smartphone industry. Both the operating systems join to form 98.4 percent global market share, with Android leading at 80.7 percent market share, and iOS with a 17.7 percent share. Also Android's market share consists of smartphones sold by different companies, which include Samsung, Lenovo-Motorola, Huawei and Xiaomi among others. You can watch the Android commercial below: Latest Business News Follow us on whatsapp to stop supporting blackberry nokia other android devices New Delhi: Whatsaap has turned seven years this week and so the widely used Facebook-owned instant messaging application, has decided to drop support for various operating system from 2017. WhatsApp, is going to end support for BlackBerry 10 OS, along with support for all other BlackBerry operating systems. Also on the list are Symbian, Windows Phone 7.1, Android 2.1 and Android 2.2. The WhatsApp blog post has said it will be ending support by the end of 2016. The company said that when it launched WhatsApp, the market was different as BlackBerry and Nokia's operating systems dominated the market with roughly a 70 percent share. Back then Android and iOS only ran on less than 25 percent of the devices. WhatsApp said, "While these mobile devices have been an important part of our story, they don't offer the kind of capabilities we need to expand our app's features in the future." If you are using devices that are based on these operating systems, you need to upgrade to the latest Android, iOS and new Windows Mobile 10 operating systems. Blackberry users on the other hand can use BBM, keeping in mind that it is a cross platform messaging stage. But it is unlikely that all of your friends might be using the BlackBerry Messenger. Also Symbian users can either use apps such as Nimbuzz. But these alternative messaging app will not give WhatsApp-like instant messaging or have all contacts with same instant messaging application. Latest Business News Follow us on delhi cm arvind kejriwal says his car attacked in ludhiana Punjab: Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal said on Monday that his car was attacked in Punjab's Ludhiana with sticks and stones, causing damage to the windscreen of the vehicle. The information was made public by the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief himself on Twitter.Badals n congress nervous? They can't break my spirits (sic), Kejriwal tweeted after the incident. A photo retweeted by the Aam Aadmi Party's official handle showed the broken windscreen of Kejriwal's car and police present at the scene. The Delhi chief minister earlier visited Boha village in Ludhiana, where two Dalit youth were killed in an alleged fake encounter in 2014. Terror of Badals is all set to end after one year, he said to the families of the two. Meanwhile, another AAP leader Ashish Khetan accused Shiriomani Akali Dal for the attack saying, Badals attacked Kejriwal's car with stones and & rods. Khetan accused the Punjab Police of being a mute spectator and taking no action when the goons attacked Kejriwal' car. The attack took place as Kejriwal exited a venue where he interacted with industrialists around 12.20pm. A group of Sikh protestors threw stones at his car. Latest India News Follow us on haryana police files status report on murthal rape allegations Chandigarh: Haryana Police today filed its status report on the alleged rapes at Murthal in Sonipat district during the Jat agitation, saying no such incident took place. The status report was filed before a division bench of justices S K Mittal and H S Sidhu. The status report filed by police "denied the charges of molestation and gangrape during the intervening night of February 22/23 at Murthal in Sonipat district." The division bench adjourned the case to March 14. The High Court had taken suo motu note of the matter after a report in a local daily on the alleged rapes. The bench had appointed senior advocate Anupam Gupta as amicus curiae to assist the court in this matter. During the course of the hearing, ADGP Law and Order Mohd Akil and Head of the three-member women police officers probing the allegations DIG Rajshree Singh were also present. Days after allegations of rape and molestation by Jat quota agitators near Haryana's Murthal, a woman yesterday came forward and registered a case of gangrape against seven persons, including her brother-in-law, in connection with the incident. "An FIR has been lodged against seven persons in connection with a gangrape on the basis of a complaint filed by a Narela-based woman," Haryana Police, DIG, Rajshree Singh had said. She said the victim had alleged she was raped on the intervening night of February 22-23 and the perpetrators included her brother-in-law. The officer, who heads a three-member team of women police officers constituted by the Haryana government to go into alleged incidents of rape and molestation of several women by Jat protesters, however, said a "family dispute" could be the reason behind the woman filing the complaint. The officer said the victim was not sure about the exact scene of the crime but claimed she was raped in a building near Murthal when she was on way to Narela in Delhi from Haridwar in a van. Latest India News Follow us on jnu row delhi hc to hear kanhaiya kumar s bail plea today New Delhi: The Delhi High Court will today resume hearing on a bail plea of JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar, arrested in a sedition case for allegedly raising anti-India slogans in the university campus. The hearing assumes significance as the police is likely to apprise the bench about the ongoing investigation during which it had taken Kanhaiya to one day custody to confront him with two other JNU students and arrested accused -- Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya. Umar and Anirban had surrendered before police late on February 23 night. Both the accused are in police custody till February 29. Justice Pratibha Rani had earlier on February 24 deferred the hearing till February 29 after Delhi Police informed the bench that it will seek his further custodial interrogation. Senior advocate Kapil Sibal, appearing for Kanhaiya, had contended that as per the status report filed by Delhi Police there was no evidence of any anti-India slogans being raised by his client. Kanhaiya, who was arrested on February 12, was in police custody till February 17 and was later remanded in judicial custody till March 2 amid violence at the court premises during the remand proceedings. He was taken to one-day police custody on February 25 and was thereafter remanded back in judicial custody for two weeks on February 26. In its status report filed before the high court, police had alleged Kanhaiya had not only participated in the event in JNU campus on February 9 where anti-national slogans were allegedly raised but had "actually organised" the programme. It had claimed that besides Kanhaiya and other accused, some "foreign elements" were also present during the event and they had covered their faces to hide their identity. "The investigation agency is looking for linkage between the petitioner (Kanhaiya), his co-accused and the said foreign elements who were hiding their identity by covering their faces," the police had said while opposing his bail plea. Latest India News Follow us on pakistan us hold strategic talks today Islamabad: Pakistan and the United States are all set to hold a ministerial level strategic dialogue' today (Monday) in Washington to discuss a host of issues, including counter-terrorism, security and economic ties between the two countries. Adviser to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Sartaj Aziz will lead a high-level Pakistani delegation while the American side will be headed by Secretary of State John Kerry at the annual meeting. The six segments of the strategic dialogue include cooperation in economy and finance; energy; education, science and technology; law enforcement and counterterrorism; security, strategic stability and non-proliferation and defence. It will be the third annual meeting since the present government has come to power. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's visit to the United States in October last year had given the necessary impetus to the dialogue mechanism, the report said. The dialogue process began in 2010 but interrupted in 2011 when the US forces killed al-Qaeda chief Osama bin Laden in Abbottabad in a midnight raid. The process resumed in 2014 when Aziz and Kerry met in Washington in January. The key meeting will take place soon after the US announced to sell eight F-16 fighter jets worth $700 million to Pakistan, despite objection from India and mounting opposition from influential American lawmakers. Kerry has strongly defended the Obama Administration's decision, arguing that these fighter jets are a "critical" part of Pakistan's fight against terrorists. Planning Minister Ahsan Iqbal, who is in Washington as part of the Pakistani delegation, has said the dialogue will provide an opportunity to operationalise key future making initiates between the two countries. He was speaking at the Centre for Strategic and International Studies. The Foreign Office had earlier said that the upcoming meeting will "afford an important opportunity to take stock of the entire gamut of Pakistan's bilateral relations with the US". Latest World News Ive been gone a while from the blogging scene. Some of my more regular readers no doubt noticed but did not hassle me about it. Thank you for that. Sinc... 6 years ago Follow us on mehbooba mufti maintains suspense over j k govt formation Srinagar: Maintaining suspense over government formation in Jammu and Kashmir, PDP chief Mehbooba Mufti said that she will take a decision while keeping in mind the 'dignity, honour and welfare' of the people of the state. "If I take a step, it is not that I want to be a cut above. I want that if we form the government, its benefit should reach the people here," she said while addressing party workers at the launch of PDP's membership drive in Anantnag district of south Kashmir on Sunday. "It is not that (I want) I will become a Chief Minister, there would be ministers and we will have a fleet of cars with four flags. But, when the people of the state, its youth or its regions do not reap any benefits of that (government), and when we cannot play a role in bringing peace here, then tell me what will I do with that chair," she added. Jammu and Kashmir has been under Governor's Rule since January 8, imposed a day after Mehbooba's father and then CM Mufti Mohammad Sayeed passed away suddenly. Since then, Mehbooba, whose party is the largest with 27 MLAs in the 87-member House, has been maintaining suspense over the government formation. PDP and 25-member BJP had run a 10-month coalition government before Sayeed's demise. "Mufti sahib used to tell me that he has not done anything for the workers and it is your (Mehbooba's) responsibility now. You trusted Mufti sahib blindly, but trust me with open eyes. Whatever decision we take, it will not be for personal interest...but it cannot be just for the workers only. That (decision) will be for the nation. We will take that decision in which there is dignity, honour and welfare for us (people of the state)," she said. "The main challenge for my party is not the National Conference or power. It is to ensure continuing the legacy of my late father who would tell me towards the end of his life that he felt sorry for having done very little for the workers who trusted and relentlessly supported him. My challenge is that," she further said. "If I choose to assume power, it would have to be for peace. It would have to be for friendly relations between India and Pakistan which is essential for peace in Jammu and Kashmir, she added. Noting that 'these things are presently threatened', she said, "Youth are getting disgruntled with the situation and some of them are taking to the gun. This is a serious development." Citing the recent destruction of the Entrepreneurship Development Institute in a gunfight between militants and security forces, Mehbooba said that there was a 'legacy that is being threatened and destroyed'. There is intense speculations in Kashmir that a PDP-BJP coalition government would assume power in the state after the Union Budget. Reports also say that the Budget is likely to contain a financial package for the state, 2 smart cities and financial assistance for buying back two hydro power projects from the NHPC. With Agency Inputs Follow us on prashant kishor to strategise for congress in up assembly polls reports Patna: Election strategist Prashant Kishor, who is already scripting a Congress campaign for Punjab state elections, will also be strategising for party in UP elections scheduled next year. The Congress decided to bring in Kishor after party vice president Rahul Gandhi held another meeting with him last week, the Economic Times quoted a person close to the political strategist. The report also says Kishor will report directly to Gandhi and may pitch for a larger role for Gandhi's sister Priyanka Gandhi Vadra in the polls, including perhaps projecting her as the party's chief ministerial candidate. While in Punjab party's chances of coming back to power are better as it has already been out of power for 10 years and may ride high on anti-incumbency factor but the party has been reduced to a minor player in Uttar Pradesh over the last few elections, and given the clout of Mulayam Singh Yadav's Samajwadi Party and Mayawati's Bahujan Samaj Party in the state, Congress will need a major shot in the arm. In the run-up to the 2015 Bihar polls, Prashant Kishor designed Nitish Kumar's winning campaign for the Bihar assembly elections in November last year, a victory that the Congress shared as the junior partner of Mr Kumar's Janata Dal United and Lalu Yadav's RJD. After Nitish's victory in Bihar Assembly polls, there were reports that several political parties including Tamil Nadu's ruling AIADMK, Mamata Banerjee's TMC, had approached Kishor to plan strategy for upcoming elections. Kishor was also the brain behind Prime Minister Narendra Modi's blockbuster campaign during 2014 Lok Sabha polls. After the BJP's return to power in New Delhi after a gap of 10 years, Kishor switched over to Modi's arch enemy Nitish. Joseph Lewis Betrayed Click to Read an Excerpt "Action and adventure are the words of the day in this thrilling, well-written, page-turner from Joseph Lewis." Caught In A Web Click to Read an Excerpt "This important, nail-biting crime thriller about MS-13 sets the bar very high. One of the years best thrillers." Spiral Into Darkness Click to Read an Excerpt "[] The authors descriptions are amazing and paint a gripping picture that keeps you hooked in." Author of the Week: Joseph Lewis After having been in education for forty-four years as a teacher, coach, counselor and administrator,has retired. He uses his psychology and counseling background in crafting psychological thriller/mysteries. Were excited to announce that indmin.com is now part of fastmarkets.com. A new look and an improved experience means you can still stay ahead of this fast-moving market with price data, news and market intelligence right here on Fastmarkets. Discover more than 2000 prices, news and analysis in primary and secondary metals markets. We cover base metals, industrial minerals, ores and alloys, steel, scrap and steel raw materials. If you already have a Fastmarkets account, youll still have uninterrupted access to your markets by logging in with your current details. American Know-How By Christopher Brauchli "He had grown up in a country run by politicians who sent the pilots to man the bombers to kill the babies to make the world safer for children to grow up in." Ursula Kroeber Le Guin, The Lathe of Heaven February 29, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - A number of readers have written inquiring where cluster bombs can be conveniently purchased. At first blush one might think that the question is being asked by readers who are tired of the limited ability of the AK 47 to inflict harm on a lot of people in a short amount of time, that weapon being a favorite of those who do mass murders. The fact is that few of my readers are of that sort and so their inquiries are prompted by intellectual curiosity alone. It is a reasonable question since cluster bombs are once again in the news and some of my readers thought that cluster bombs had been banned and, that being the case, wondered why anyone would continue to make them and, to whom they would sell them. Those are both good questions and I am happy to be able to answer both of them. First, a word of explanation about cluster bombs is probably in order. Cluster bombs are described as anti-personnel and anti-armor weapons. They were used to tragic effect in Vietnam where they not only indiscriminately killed those within their purview, but in many cases failed to explode and were left lying in the countryside to later explode killing children and others who came into contact with them. According to one report, in Laos where they were also used, 80 million bombs failed to detonate and, long after the conflict there ended, have been responsible for countless injuries among those who encountered them. Because they are both lethal and unpredictable, 109 states signed the Convention on Cluster Munitions that was adopted in 2008. It prohibits the use, production and stockpiling of cluster bombs. Although a treaty banning cluster bombs sounds like a great idea, only 109 states initially signed it. As of this writing there are 118 signatories. Among the more prominent states that have refused to sign, for reasons best understood by them, are Saudi Arabia, Russia and the United States. Although the United States has not signed the treaty, it has proved sensitive to the tendency of the cluster bomb as a device to underperform. Many cluster bombs during the Vietnam war proved to have a failure rate of more than 1% and were used in areas where there were large civilian populations. Congress became concerned about this and, as a result, under the 2009 Omnibus Budget Bill, only cluster bombs that have a failure rate of less than 1% can be exported and they can only be used against "clearly defined military targets." A country that buys cluster bombs from the United States has to sign a statement stating that they will not be used "where civilians are known to be present." Notwithstanding these reassuring restrictions, cluster bombs acquired from the United States have been used by Saudi Arabia in its war with Yemen and, according to a lengthy and detailed report by Human Rights Watch (HRW) "Saudi Arabia is using them notwithstanding evidence of civilian casualties." According to Steve Goose, arms director at Human Rights Watch(HRW): "Recently transferred US-manufactured cluster munitions are being used in civilian areas contrary to US export requirements and also appear to be failing to meet the reliability standards required for US export of the weapons." By now, a reader (and perhaps a prospective buyer of a cluster bomb or two) probably wants to know who is supplying the cluster bombs that fail to meet the standards set forth in the omnibus bill so the reader can shop elsewhere. The answer is Textron Systems Corporation doing business as "Textron Defense Systems", of Wilmington, Massachusetts. Textron's website indicates that the cluster bombs (more formally known as SFW CBU-105 DF/ P31) made by it, exceed "stringent U.S. Department of Defense policy on multiple warhead systems by regulating unexploded ordnance (UXO) to less than 1 percent. SFW [sensor fuzed weapon] has demonstrated greater than 99.6 percent reliability with U.S. Government verified performance in combat operations and during more than 600 operational tests. In addition, SFW's redundant self-destruct features and self-neutralization mode ensure that battery power dissipates minutes after a smart Skeet is released, rendering it safe." In its Valentine Day's posting, however, HRW cites numerous examples of cluster bombs manufactured by Textron that failed to explode. Whether the number of devices that failed to explode in Yemen are more or less than 1% of the cluster bombs used on that country is impossible to know. Whether HRW's report of civilian deaths is correct is also impossible for someone like this writer to know. And for obvious reasons, Textron cannot be held responsible for whether Saudi Arabia is careful not to use the bombs where civilians will be killed or injured. If HRW's facts are correct, and there are civilian victims, the fault lies with Saudi Arabia and not Textron. Saudi Arabia's failure to honor its obligations is not Textron's responsibility. As noted song writer and satirist Tom Lehrer wrote many years ago: "'Once the rockets are up, who cares where they come down. That's not my department,' says Wernher von Braun." Nor is what Saudi Arabia does with the cluster bombs in Textron's department. Of course it could quit making them . Christopher Brauchli can be emailed at brauchli.56@post.harvard.edu. For political commentary see his web page at http://humanraceandothersports.com5 State-of-the-art Technology Gives Syrian Army the Edge The government has lost over 60,000 men since the war began, but new Russian equipment is helping turn the tide By Robert Fisk February 29, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - " The Independent " - You can see the Syrian armys spanking new Russian T-90 tanks lined up in their new desert livery scarcely 100 miles from Isiss Syrian capital of Raqqa. There are new Russian-made trucks alongside them, and a lot of artillery and surely Isiss spies are supposed to see this plenty of Syrian soldiers walking beside the perimeter wire beside Russian soldiers wearing floppy military hats against the sun, the kind they used in the old days in the summer heat of Afghanistan in the 1980s. Theres even a Russian general based at the Isriyah military base, making sure that Syrian tank crews receive the most efficient training on the T-90s. No, Russian ground troops are not going to fight Isis. That was never the intention. The Russian air force attacks Isis from the air; the Syrians, the Iranians, the Afghan Shia Muslims from north-eastern Afghanistan, the Iraqi Shias and several hundred Pakistani Shias must attack Isis and Jabhat al-Nusra on the ground. But the Russians have to be up in the desert to the east of the Aleppo-Hama-Homs-Damascus axis, both to train the Syrian tank crews and maintain an eastern base of forward air controllers to guide the Sukhoi bombers on to their night-time targets. Everyone on the Syrian front lines will tell you that the Syrian air force bombs its enemies only in clear weather. When the winter clouds descend and the rain falls across northern and eastern Syria, the Russians take over. The Syrians are low enough to see the Russians, when they come, you never see them, as one constant visitor to the war fronts put it with military simplicity. No wonder senior Russian officers are now also attached to the Syrian army command in Aleppo. Vladimir Putin doesnt do things by halves. Yet the most important military support the Russians have given to the Syrians is not the tanks impressive though they look but the technology that goes with them. Syrian officers have been shown how the new T-90 anti-missile system causes rockets to veer off course only yards from the tanks when fired directly at them. Is this the weapon that might defeat the mass rocket assaults of Isis and Nusra? Perhaps. Even more important for the Syrians, however, are the new Russian night-vision motion sensors, and the electronic surveillance-reconnaissance equipment which enabled the government army to smash through the Nusra defences in the mountainous far north-west of Syria, breaking the rebel supply lines from Turkey to Aleppo. In an army that has lost well over 60,000 dead in almost five years of hard fighting, Syrias officers have suddenly discovered that the new Russian technology has coincided with a rapid lowering of their casualties. This may be one reason for the steady trickle of old Free Syrian Army deserters back to the ranks of the government forces, depleting even further David Camerons 70,000-strong army of moderate ghost soldiers. Intriguingly, since the start of the war in 2011, a far higher percentage of Syrian police and political security personnel have gone across to Bashar al-Assads enemies than have soldiers in the regular army. There have been 5,000 security personnel defections out of a total force of 28,000 police. The Russians are in a unique position among Syrian ground forces; they can train the Syrians how to use the new tanks and then watch how the T-90s perform without having to suffer any casualties themselves. Originally, there were plans to recapture Palmyra, the Roman city already partly vandalised by Isis, but the difficulties of the flat desert terrain have persuaded the Syrians that offensives in the north to cut off all rebel routes from Turkey into Syria will be far more worthwhile. No wonder the Turks are now laying down shellfire amid Syrian forces along their mutual border. The Russians, of course, find it far easier to train men to fight in cities or mountains environments in which they themselves have fought than in deserts, in which no Russian military personnel have had experience since Gamal Abdel Nassers war in Yemen. The offensives that retook the Shia villages of Nubl and Zahra last month were of great interest to the Russian military. For the first time, Syrian army Special Forces, Iranian Revolutionary Guards and Lebanese Hezbollah fighters operated together with Syrian tanks and helicopters, blasting their way through 20 miles of villages and open countryside in just eight days. But the statistics of foreign forces fighting for the Syrian regime appear to have been grossly exaggerated in the West. There are fewer than 5,000 Iranian Revolutionary Guards in Syria this includes advisers as well as soldiers and the other 5,000 foreign fighters include not only Afghans and Hezbollah but Pakistani Shia Muslims as well. Despite all the boasts of Saudi Arabia that it has formed a massive, if hopelessly untrained, coalition against terror, it seems that the Syrians, Iranians and Hezbollah have managed to operate together in difficult, rainy terrain and win their first major joint battle. Iranian forces are now being used on the front lines for the first time, principally around Aleppo. Their first advance began in the south Aleppo countryside in November. Officially, they and the Syrians were said to be planning to open the old international highway from Aleppo to Hama, but the real plan was to break the sieges of the Shia villages of Fuah and Kafraya. In the eastern countryside, Colonel Suheil Hassan, the Tiger whom some of the Syrian military regard as their Rommel, has been heading north to end an Isis siege on a Syrian airbase. But what of the Kurds, whose advance southwards has also endangered those rebel supply routes to Aleppo? The Syrians are grateful for any Kurdish help they can get. But few in the military have forgotten the chilling events of 2013, when retreating Syrians sought refuge with Kurdish forces after the battle for the Mineq airbase. The Kurds demanded a vast tranche of weapons from the Syrian army in return for their men soldiers for ammunition in which millions of rounds of AK-47 and machine-gun ammunition and thousands of rounds of rocket-propelled grenades were sought in return for the release of the soldiers. But the Kurds wanted to persuade Nusra to return Kurdish prisoners, and offered the senior Syrian officers from Mineq to Nusra in return for the captives. Nusra agreed, but once the Kurds handed over the Syrian officers, the Islamist rebels who had lost around 300 of their own men in the Mineq battle at once killed all the Syrian officers the Kurds had given them, shooting them in the head. Among them was the acting Syrian commander at Mineq, Colonel Naji Abu Shaar of the Syrian armys 17th Division. Events like these will not endear the Kurds to the Syrian army in future years. Meanwhile, the Syrians continue to lose high-ranking officers in battle. At least six generals have been killed in combat during the Syrian war, allowing the army to proclaim that their top men lead from the front. The commander of Syrias Special Forces was killed in Idlib, and the commander of Syrian military intelligence in the east of the country was killed in Deir al-Zour. Major-General Mohsen Mahlouf died in battle near Palmyra. General Saleh, a close friend and colleague of Colonel Tiger Hassan, took on the suicide bombers of al-Qaeda in the Sheikh Najjar Industrial City outside Aleppo a year ago. He told me that suicide bombers killed 23 of his men in one vast explosion there. I met him afterwards, and thought at the time that he had adopted a blithe almost foolhardy disregard of death. Just a month ago, he drove over an IED bomb which blew off the lower half of his right leg. These are hard men, many of whom trained in a Syrian military college whose front gate legend reads: Welcome to the school of heroism, where the gods of war are made. Chilling stuff. This Is How We Spooked Putin: What the New York Times Wont Tell You About The American Adventure In Ukraine The failure of Washingtons most adventurous power assertion in post-Cold War period can no longer be papered over By Patrick L. Smith February 29, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - " Salon " - All of a sudden, straight out of nowhere, Ukraine creeps back into the news.There is renewed fighting in the rebellious eastern regions. There is political warfare in Kiev. There is paralysis in the upper reaches. There is some new formation called the Revolutionary Right Forces occupying the Maidanthe very same Independence Square where, two years ago this past Sunday, months of protests tipped into violence and an elected president was ousted. All of a sudden. Straight out of nowhere. Now you know what you are supposed to think as the flowers of corruption and ultra-right atavism burst forth in Ukraine. Shall we insist together on remaining in what is quaintly called the real world? Ukraine has gone from political crisis to armed conflict to humanitarian crisis with no break in the regress since the American-cultivated coup in February 2014. But for many months now we have had before us a textbook example of what I call the Power of Leaving Out. The most daring attempt at regime change since righteous Clintonians invented this self-deceiving euphemism in the 1990s has come to six-figure casualties, mass deprivation, a divided nation and a wrecked economy. If you abide within the policy cliques or the corporate-owned media, it is best to go quiet as long as you can in the face of such eventualities. The short of it, readers, is that all three chickens now take up their roosts at once: The Poroshenko government is on the brink of collapse, neo-Nazi extremists have forced it to renew hostilities in the east and there is no letup in the blockade Kiev imposes on rebelling regions. The last differs from a punitive starvation strategy only in degree. The very short of it is that the more or less complete failure of Washingtons most adventurous assertion of power in the post-Cold War period can no longer be papered over. Even the most corrupted correspondents have to file something when political mutiny and warfare break into the openand when non-American media, as is their peculiar habit, report on these things. It is for this reason alone you can read a smidgebut only a smidgeabout the events now unfolding in Ukraine in the New York Times and all other media that reliably do as the Times does. This column has cheered for an American failure in Ukraine since first forecasting one in the spring of 2014. Brilliant that it is upon us at last. Forcing a nation to live under a neoliberal economic regime so that American corporations can exploit it freely, as the Obama administration proposed when it designated Arseniy Yatsenyuk as prime minister in 2014, is never to be cheered. Turning a nation of 46 million into a bare-toothed front line in Americas obsessive campaign against Russia is never to be cheered. Forcing the Russian-speaking half of the country to live under a government that would ban Russian as a national language if it could is never to be cheered. The only regret, a great regret of mind and heart, is that American failures almost always prove so costly in consequence of the blindness and arrogance of the policy cliques. Readers may remember when, with a defense authorization bill in debate last June, two congressmen advanced an amendment banning military assistance to openly neo-Nazi and fascist militias waging war against Ukraines eastern regions. John Conyers and Ted Yoho got two things done in a stroke: They forced public acknowledgment that the repulsive neo-Nazi Azov battalion, as Conyers put it, was active, and they shamed the (also repulsive) Republican House to pass their legislative amendment unanimously. Obama signed the defense bill then at issue into law just before Thanksgiving. The Conyers-Yoho amendment was deleted but for a single phrase. The bill thus authorizes, among much, much else, $300 million in aid this year to the military and national security forces in Ukraine. In a land ruled by euphemisms, the latter category designates the Azov battalion and the numerous other fascist militias on which the Poroshenko government is wholly dependent for its existence. An omnibus spending bill Obama signed a month later included an additional $250 million for the Ukraine army and its rightist adjuncts. This is your money, taxpayers, should you need reminding. As Obama signed these bills, the White House expressed its satisfaction that ideological riders had been stripped out of them. No, you read next to nothing of this in any American newspaper. Yes, you now know what the often-lethal combination of blindness and arrogance looks like in action. Yes, you can now see why American policy in Ukraine must fail if this crisis is ever to come to a rational, humane resolution. The funds just noted are in addition to a $1 billion loan guaranteein essence another form of aidthat Secretary of State Kerry announced with fanfare last year. And that is in addition to the International Monetary Funds $40 billion bailout program, a $17.5 billion tranche of which is now pending. Since the I.M.F. is the external-relations arm of the U.S. Treasury (and Managing Director Christine Lagarde thus the Treasurys public-relations face) this is a big commitment on the Obama administrations part (which is to say yours and mine). How are things on the receiving end, it is natural to ask. Our money goes to exactly what? Until recently, what one heard and read of Ukraines progress into a neoliberal future was almost all happy talk (or silence, of course). Vice President Biden, who carries the Ukraine portfolio in the administration, makes regular trips to laud the Poroshenko government and the reformist zeal of Premier Yatsenyuk. This is perhaps only natural, given Bidens son is neck-deep in Ukraines resource extraction industry. Biden sounded a different note during his latest trip to Kiev, which came in December. Yes, there was another handout, this one $190 million to help the Poroshenko government implement structural reforms of the usual antidemocratic kind. (Are you toting up all these checks?) But Biden was stern, make no mistake. He shook his finger from the podium in parliament. We understand how difficult some of the votes for reforms are, but they are critical for putting Ukraine back on the right path, Biden said. As long as you continue to make progress in fighting corruption and build a future of opportunity for all Ukraine, the U.S. will stand with you. Back on the right path? Continue to make progress? Since euphemisms are an American export item, familiar in euphemism markets the world over, a translation: You are embarrassing us because you have done nothing. We gave you a window to pass legislation before the Ukrainian people figured out how awful it would make their lives. Youre blowing it as we speak. Hurry up. Meantime, here is another couple of hundred million. A few days ago Geoffrey Pyatt, the American ambassador in Kiev, put in his two cents. (No check this time.) Pyatt, readers will surely recall, did the gumshoe work for Victoria Nuland, the assistant secretary of state who engineered Yatsenyuks elevation to the premiership two years ago. His concern was grave as he addressed a defense and security seminar: He wants to see meaningful steps to reform the trade and investment climate. These are, of course, the abiding passions of every un- or under-employed Ukrainian. Ukraine has said that it wants to become a major defense exporter, the ambassador elaborated. I know that is possible, given the extraordinary capabilities that I have seen the Ukrainian industry demonstrate, but it can only happen if Ukraine continues to press ahead on critical reforms, tackles corruption, and works to meet NATO standards. This will require a paradigm shift in Ukraines defense industry, and a move away from a mindset of state-owned enterprises. Pyatt refers to a very specific circumstance in the above passage. Ukraine is a cesspit of illegal arms dealing, and this is a wellspring of corruption and illicit profit American defense contractors want to partake of. A source in Europe who is familiar with the trade but not part of it explained things this way in a note the other day: Ukraine has been the plaque tournant [hub, lively market] of illegal arms trade since the end of the U.S.S.R. The mob, the Kiev military, the far-right groups and some of the oligarchs all participate at different levels in this very, very dirty business. None, as in none of this has been touched by the Kiev regime. This tableau of trade in deadly devices is surely what Pyatt meant by the extraordinary capabilities he has witnessed among Ukraines weapons dealers. * See where we are headed here? The project is to neoliberalize Ukraine and make its defense machine, now so corrupt nobody but the Pentagon will provide it any assistance, NATO-compatible. But none of this is proceeding to plan. The absence of structural reforma phrase I have loved since my correspondent days for all the anti-social savagery it masksis one problem. But it is the corruption that comes to crisis of late. There has been no sign of improvement since the February 2014 events; now it is worse than under any previous government, including the one ousted two years ago, my sources in Europe report. Corruption continues to be the worst at any time since the collapse of the U.S.S.R., a source with close contacts in Kiev writes. Recently even the I.M.F.i.e., the international office of U.S. Treasury, run by [Under Secretary] David Liptonread the riot act. The economy is in free fall. The most competent ministers have left, resigned due to the inability to get anything significant done. Berlin and Paris are, I am told by Quai dOrsay [French foreign ministry] contacts, completement exacerbes [highly aggravated, made furious] by the Kiev regime. There are demos practically every day against the govt.of course, not reported in the intl. media. The resignation this source had in mind was that of Aivaras Abromavicius, who stepped down earlier this month as economic development minister with this parting comment: Neither me, nor my team, has any desire to serve as a cover-up for the covert corruption, or become puppets for those who, very much like the old government, are trying to exercise control over the flow of public funds. Abromavicius, a Lithuanian by birth and a former fund manager, was among several foreign technocrats appointed to the Poroshenko cabinetmore or less by the I.M.F., and hence the Americansto see through the neoliberal project. Subsequent to his departure, Lagarde let loose with her well-publicized warning: Clean up the act or the $17.5 billion check on my desk does not get signed. The act that needs to be scoured has two parts. Apart from the questions of corruption and free-market reform, there are the terms of the ceasefire agreement signed last year and known as Minsk II for the city where it was negotiated. Minsk II calls for constitutional revision allowing the eastern regions a significant degree of autonomy, their own elections, and a decentralization of administrative authority to give Ukraine something like a federalized national structure. This is, of course, the rational way to a resolution of the Ukraine crisis given the nations history, culture and languages. Why is Kiev paralyzed on both fronts? The corruption question is easy. Nothing gets done because the same people in power when Viktor Yanukovych was ousted two years ago are in power now. Washingtons problem with Yanukovych was never corruption, we need to note. It was his view of Ukraine: An easterner, he considered that the nations long and close involvement with Russia had to be accommodated along with the western regions tilt toward Europe. Many deaths and much destruction later, this is what Minsk II is intended to do. No, Washington has a problem with Ukraines corruption now for the reasons Joe Biden and Geoffrey Pyatt make perfectly plain: Western corporations cannot put their money down on the table so long as Ukrainian bureaucrats, generals and business people keep stealing it at so obnoxious a rate. As to Minsk II, we can also note that none the visitors to Ukraine of late appears to give a hoot that the Proshenko government has done nothing to fulfill its obligations. This is because they have no hoot to give. As of Monday we have two exceptions, however. Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Jean-Marc Ayrault, the German and French foreign ministers, have just finished talks in Kiev en route to Russia to negotiate the forward motion of Minsk IIs provisions after months of stagnation. At the outset, as one of my European sources said, they were completement exacerbes. And they were exacerbes , understandably, because it is lately clear that the Poroshenko government is incapable of moving on Minsk II. It is, in effect, the hostage of the right-wing militias that were long said to exist only in the imaginations of Russian propagandists. Azov and the other militias, the Svoboda party and Right Sektor, a Svoboda offspring, have made their position clear since Germany, France and Christine Lagarde forced Poroshenko to sign Minsk II last year: Make one move to accommodate the accord and we will bring you down. At this point the barely competent maker of chocolates is squeezed into a corner so tight it is not clear he will be able to breathe much longer. On one hand the exacerbes Europeans want Minsk II implemented; it was supposed to be by the end of last year. They want tensions on their border with Russia to ease, they are impatient with Washingtons sanctions regime and it is as plain as day now that Ash Carters Pentagon and General Breedloves NATO will run all the miles they can so long as Ukraine gives them an excuse to do so. This pair loves Ukraine to bitsand may literally do so, depending on how things go. As Stephen Cohen, the noted Russianist, writes in a comment published in The Nation this week, with Defense Secretary Carters recent announcement that the Pentagon will quadruple spending on U.S. and NATO forces in Europe, Western military power has never been positioned so close to Russia. This kind of Russian roulette, as Cohen terms it, is not a game Europeans like playing. Although the Europeans have no foreign policy of their own, as Vladimir Putin astutely observed in a video recording released last week, they have at least recognized that Russia is more logically a partner, however attenuated the partnership, than an adversary. That is the one hand. On the other, Poroshenko is fighting for his political life in Kiev. Last week he called for the universally unpopular Yatsenyukbearer of the neoliberal banner, whose approval rating is below 5 percentto resign. But it shapes up as too little and too late. Over the weekend and into this week, sections of the ultra-right, calling themselves Revolutionary Right Forces, gathered in Maidan to mark the second anniversary of the revolution. Having bombed three Russian banks while the police stood by without intervening, they effectively called for another revolt by way of a hefty list of demands. They want Poroshenkos head, too. They want mass resignations of the generals, the bureaucrats, and the politicians. They demand the government repudiate Minsk II en bloc and impose martial law in the eastern regions and Crimea. Now tell me, are you surprised that the war in the east has suddenly resumed? Are you surprised that nowhere in any American news account is it made clear who recommenced the hostilities? The Times account carried in Mondays paper is so pointedly evasive one must conclude they ran the story only because the Power of Leaving Out no longer quite does it. There is movement in Ukraine: This we can say. Sometime this year the Americans and the I.M.F. may quietly acknowledge that they chose the wrong puppets and step back, in which case failure will be self-evident. This is doubtful, however. They are not smart enough and lack sufficient integrity. Berlin, Paris and Moscow may continue to make common cause and more or less impose Minsk II on Kiev. It is quite possible. In this case the American failure will also be evident, if more subtly. Washington will claim the success, if it stays true to form. Or the war in the eastern regions will escalate and grow very dangerous well beyond Ukraine. This is all too possible at the moment. It is probably the favored way forward in Washington and Kiev, but it will turn out to be merely failure of another, more brutal kind. No ideological riders, as the Obama White House likes to put it. Patrick Smith is Salons foreign affairs columnist. A longtime correspondent abroad, chiefly for the International Herald Tribune and The New Yorker, he is also an essayist, critic and editor. His most recent books are Time No Longer: Americans After the American Century (Yale, 2013) and Somebody Elses Century: East and West in a Post-Western World (Pantheon, 2010). Follow him @thefloutist. His web site is patricklawrence.us. Occupy Hillary Clintons Wall Street Speeches By Marjorie Cohn February 29, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - Hillary Clinton refuses to make public the transcripts of her speeches to big banks, three of which were worth a total of $675,000 to Goldman Sachs. She says she would release the transcripts if everybody does it, and that includes Republicans. After all, she complained, Why is there one standard for me, and not for everybody else? As the New York Times editorial board pointed out, The only different standard here is the one Mrs. Clinton set for herself, by personally earning $11 million in 2014 and the first quarter of 2015 for 51 speeches to banks and other groups and industries. Hillary is not running in the primaries against Republicans, who, the Times noted, make no bones about their commitment to Wall Street deregulation and tax cuts for the wealthiest Americans. She is running against Bernie Sanders, a decades-long critic of Wall Street excess who is hardly a hot ticket on the industry speaking circuit, according to the Times. Why do voters need to know what Hillary told the banks? Because it was Wall Street that was responsible for the 2008 recession, making life worse for most Americans. We need to know what, if anything, she promised these behemoths. I Scratch Your Back, You Scratch Mine Hillary has several super PACs, which have recently donated $25 million to her campaign, $15 million of which came from Wall Street. Big banks and large contributors dont give their money away for nothing. They expect that their interests will be well served by those to whom they donate. Hillary recently attended an expensive fundraiser at Franklin Square Capital, a hedge fund that gives big bucks to the fracking industry. Two weeks later, Hillarys campaign announced her continuing support for the production of natural gas, which comes from fracking. Bernie opposes fracking. He said, Just as I believe you cant take on Wall Street while taking their money, I dont believe you can take on climate change effectively while taking money from those who would profit off the destruction of the planet. Bernies Political Revolution Bernie has no super PACs. His campaign has received 4 million individual contributions, that average $27 each. Perhaps Rupert Murdoch multiplied that amount by $100 in setting $2700 a head as the entrance fee for Hillarys latest campaign gala? Bernie has called for a political revolution that takes on the fossil fuel billionaires, accelerates our transition to clean energy, and finally puts people before the profits of polluters. He would retrain workers in the fossil fuel industries for clean energy jobs. Bernie reminds us that the top one-tenth of 1% owns nearly as much wealth as the bottom 90%, and 99% of all new income goes to the top 1%. Unlike Hillary, he says healthcare is a right not a privilege and college and university tuition should be free. Bernie and Congressman John Conyers introduced legislation to allocate $5.5 billion to states and communities to create employment programs for African-American youth. They say, instead of putting military style equipment into police departments . . . we [should] start investing in jobs for the young people there who desperately need them. How will we pay for all that? If we cut military spending and corporate welfare, we would have more than enough money to meet Americas needs, Bernie wrote in his 1997 book, Outsider in the House. This nation currently spends $260 billion a year on defense, even though the Cold War is over, not counting $30 billion spent annually on intelligence or the $20 billion in defense-related expenditures hidden away in our federal spending on energy, he added. Today, with all the wars our government is prosecuting, that figure is nearly $600 billion. With Bernie Sanders, we have a unique opportunity to reverse long-standing priorities that favor the few at the expense of the many. Let us seize the time. Marjorie Cohn has been a professor at Thomas Jefferson School of Law since 1991. In summer 2016, she will become Professor Emeritus, and will continue to lecture, write, and provide media commentary. http://marjoriecohn.com/ Home Sign up for our FREE Daily Email Newsletter Wall Streets Savage Reckoning: Clouds Gather Over G-20 Summit By Mike Whitney February 29, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - " Counterpunch " - Finance ministers and central bankers from the worlds biggest economies met in Shanghai, China over the weekend to discuss many of the problems for which they alone are responsible. Leading the list of issues, was the steady deceleration in global growth which, to great extent, is the result of experimental monetary policies central banks implemented following the recession in 2009. Surprisingly, the group admitted that their easing strategies had failed to produce the durable recovery that they sought, but at the same time, they made virtually no effort to correct their mistake by making the changes necessary to shore up flagging global output. Heres a brief recap from Bloomberg: Finance chiefs from the worlds top economies committed their governments to doing more to boost global growth amid mounting concerns over the potency of monetary policy. In a pledge that will prove easier to write than deliver and may disappoint investors looking for a coordinated stimulus plan, the Group of 20 said we will use fiscal policy flexibly to strengthen growth, job creation and confidence. After a two-day meeting in Shanghai, finance ministers and central bank governors also doubled down on a line from their last gathering that monetary policy alone cannot lead to balanced growth. This is complete gibberish. Finance chiefs from the worlds top economies did not commit their governments to do more to boost global growth. Quite the contrary, they didnt lift a finger to change anything. Thats why Wall Street has its knickers in a twist, because they didnt get the lavish handouts they were hoping for. You see, now that stocks are on the ropes and corporate profits have been dropping for two consecutive quarters (which is a sign of impending recession), the big money guys want more favors from Uncle Sugar, this time in the form of fiscal stimulus and structural reforms which is an opaque pro-business buzzword that refers to the further slashing of workers wages, additional tax cuts for voracious corporations, and more lifting of government regulations to make it easier for Wall Street to fleece We the People. What the markets were hoping for was some indication that more government freebies were on the way. But the finance ministers couldnt agree about anything, so the whole issue of stimulus was scrapped. In other words, Wall Street got zilch. Thats why theyre so upset. Check this out from Financial Review: Investors burned by turmoil in global markets are looking for signs the worlds top finance officials are ready to take action to bolster growth and calm currency moves. Citigroups Steven Englander said a failure to include more explicit support for fiscal stimulus in the closing statement from policy makers would be taken badly by investors. For Andrew Brenner, head of international fixed income at National Alliance Capital Markets in New York, a commitment to fiscal expansion and clarity on Chinas currency policy will send equities higher next week, while stocks will slide if those issues arent addressed. Keeping the previous language would be very disappointing and would be viewed as either complacent or reflecting policy paralysis, Englander, Citigroups head of currency strategy for major developed economies, said in a February 25 report. He urged the G-20 to man up and tell member countries that monetary policy should be accompanied by fiscal expansion. (G-20 needs to man up to avert more market turmoil, says Citigroups Englander, Financial Review) Can you see whats going on? There is general acceptance of the fact that monetary policy has lost its effectiveness, so now Wall Street wants fiscal giveaways. And they dont care how they get them either. Notice how carefully Mr Englander phrases his comments: Keeping the previous language would be very disappointing and would be viewed as either complacent or reflecting policy paralysis. In other words, if Wall Street doesnt get more government handouts its going to stomp its feet and have another big hissyfit. Reuters tells the same story. Check it out: Investors could trim back positions on equities given a failure by a weekend meeting of the G20 group of leading economies to come up with concrete, new measures to boost growth, analysts said.. The fact that the G20 is going to do more of the same is likely to be greeted with a big yawn and a likely fall on stock markets, said Richard Edwards, managing director at trading and research firm HED Capital. Others felt equally discouraged. Some people will be disappointed that there are no concrete measures, said Francois Savary, chief investment officer at Geneva-based investment and consultancy firm Prime Partners. (Reuters) Some people will be disappointed, says Savary?? Well, boo-fu**ing-hoo! I mean, how long are we going to continue to shape policy so it suits the exclusive needs of the bloodsuckers on Wall Street? Its insanity! Central banks and finance chiefs dont give a rip about growth, jobs or even the overall state of the economy. Its a joke. What matters them is profits and stock prices. Thats it. All this rubbish about doing more to boost growth or using fiscal policy to increase job creation and confidence is enough to make you puke. Heres a short clip from the G-20 communique: The global recovery continues, but it remains uneven and falls short of our ambition for strong, sustainable and balanced growth.While recognising these challenges, we nevertheless judge that the magnitude of recent market volatility has not reflected the underlying fundamentals of the global economy. Fundamentals? What fundamentals? Global central banks have purchased more than $10 trillion in various distressed assets since the end of the recession in 2009. Do you think that that reduction in supply might have a affected the price of stocks and bonds a bit? Maybe just a titch? Investors know its all a mirage. They know that soaring stock prices are strung together with chewing gum and duct tape. Thats why theyre on bailing out at the first sign of trouble. And thats what makes the G-20 confab a such momentous occasion, because the finance honchos and bank brainiacs brought nothing to the table. They basically told Wall Street to pack sand. They even shrugged off an emotional appeal from the IMF to take bold action to stimulate growth and avoid more damage to the fragile financial system. Heres what the IMF said: The G20 must plan now for co-ordinated demand support using available fiscal space to boost public investment and complement structural reformsa comprehensive approach is needed to reduce over-reliance on monetary policy. In particular, near-term fiscal policy should be more supportive where appropriate and provided there is fiscal space.The global economy needs bold multilateral actions to boost growth and contain risk. Thats quite a turnaround for the austerity-promoting IMF, dont you think? But the fund is just being pragmatic. Now that monetary policy is kaput, fiscal stimulus is the only game in town. Thats just the way it is. Either the finance ministers accept that fact and push for additional government spending on infrastructure programs and the like, or stocks and profits are going to face a savage reckoning. Its that simple. Mike Whitney lives in Washington state. He is a contributor to Hopeless: Barack Obama and the Politics of Illusion (AK Press). Hopeless is also available in a Kindle edition. He can be reached at fergiewhitney@msn.com. Click for Spanish , German , Dutch , Danish , French , translation- Note- Translation may take a moment to load. What's your response? - Scroll down to add / read comments Sign up for our FREE Daily Email Newsletter For Email Marketing you can trust Donate Please read our Comment Policy before posting - It is unacceptable to slander, smear or engage in personal attacks on authors of articles posted on ICH. Those engaging in that behavior will be banned from the comment section. Home Sign up for our FREE Daily Email Newsletter King of Chaos By Edward S. Herman February 29, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - Diana Johnstone recently published a very good book on Hillary Clinton entitled Queen of Chaos (Counterpunch Books, 2015). Johnstone justifies the title through her convincing critical examination of Clintons performance as Secretary of State as well as her broader record of opinions and actions. But Clinton served under President Barack Obama, and the policies which she pushed while in office were of necessity approved by her superior, who worked with her in a credible partnership.1 And after Mrs. Clintons exit from office Mr. Obama carried on with replacement John Kerry in a largely similar and not very peaceable mode. Most important was their 2014 escalation of hostilities toward Russia with the coup detat in Kiev, anger at the responsive Russian absorption of Crimea, warfare in Eastern Ukraine, and U.S.-sponsored sanctions against Russia for its alleged aggression. There was also simmering tension over Syria, with U.S. and client state support of rebels and jihadists attempting to overthrow the Assad government, and with Russia (and Iran and Hezbollah) backing Assad. There was also Obamas widening use of drone warfare and declared right and intention to bomb any perceived threat to U.S. national security anyplace on earth. In any case, if Hillary Clinton was Queen of Chaos, Obama is surely King. If Iraq, Libya and Syria have been reduced to a chaotic state, Obama has a heavy responsibility for these developments, although Iraqs downward spiral is in large measure allocable to the Bush-Cheney regime. The Syrian crisis has intensified, with Russia providing substantial air support that has turned the tide in favor of Assad and threatened collapse of the U.S.-Saudi-Turkish campaign of regime change. This remains a dangerous situation with Turkey threatening more aggressive action and the Obama-Kerry team still unwilling to accept defeat.2 Yemen has also descended into chaos in the Obama years, and although Saudi Arabia is the main direct villain in this case, the Obama administration provides much of the weaponry and diplomatic protection for this aggression and for several years has done some drone bombing of Yemen on its own. A fair amount of chaos also characterizes Israel-Palestine, Egypt, Tunisia and Morocco, along with many sub-Saharan regimes (Mali, South Sudan, Ethiopia, Burundi, etc.). The leadership of the superpower with long-standing predominant influence over this region must be given substantial (dis)credit for this widening chaotic state, which has produced the main body of refugees flooding into Europe and elsewhere and the surge of retail terrorism. It is often alleged that this chaos reflects a terrible failure of U.S. policy. This is debatable. Three states that were independent and considered enemy states by Israel and many U.S. policy-makers and influentialsIraq, Libya and Syriahave been made into failed states and may be in the process of dismemberment. Libya had been ruled by a man, Moammar Gaddafi, who was the most important leader seeking an Africa free of Western domination; he was chairman of the African Union in 2009, two years before his overthrow and murder. His exit led quickly to the advance of the United States African Command (Africom) and U.S.-African state partnerships to combat terrorismthat is, to a major setback to African independence and progress.3 The chaos in Ukraine and Syria has been a great windfall for the U.S.beneficiaries of the permanent war system, for whom contracts are flowing and job advancement and security are on the upswing. For them the King of Chaos has done well and his policies have been successful. There has been little publicity and debate addressing President Obamas new and major contribution to the nuclear arms race and the threat of nuclear war. In April 2009 Mr. Obama claimed a commitment to seek the peace and security of a world without nuclear weapons.4 And on the release of a Nuclear Posture Review on April 6, 2010 he stated that the United States would not develop new nuclear warheads or pursue new military missions or new capabilities for nuclear weapons. But he wasted no time in violating these promises, embarking soon on a nuclear modernization program that involved the development of an array of nuclear weapons that made their use more thinkable (smaller, more accurate, less lethal). The New York Times reported that The B61 Model 12, the bomb flight-tested in Nevada last year, is the first of five new warhead types planned as part of an atomic revitalization estimated to cost up to $1 trillion over three decades. As a family, the weapons and their delivery systems move toward the small, the stealthy and the precise. Already there are hints of a new arms race. Russia called the B61 tests irresponsible and openly provocative. China is said to be especially worried about plans for a nuclear-tipped cruise missile.5 The Times does cite a number of U.S. analysts who consider this enterprise dangerous as well as unaffordable and unneeded.6 But the modernization plan has not aroused much comment or widespread concern. And it would very likely be considered too modest by all the leading Republican presidential candidates.7 What is driving Obama to move in such an anti-social direction, perversely generating threats to national security and wasting vast resources that are urgently needed by the civil society?8 Obama is a weak president, operating in a political economy and political environment that even a strong president could not easily manage. The military-industrial complex is much stronger now than it was in January 1961 when Eisenhower, in his Farewell Speech, warned of its acquisition of unwarranted influence and consequent threat to the national well-being. The steady stream of wars has entrenched it further, and the pro-Israel lobby and subservience of the mass media have further consolidated a permanent war system. It also fits the needs of the corporate oligarchy.9 It is interesting to see that even Bernie Sanders doesnt challenge the permanent war system, whose spiritual effects and ravenous demands would seem to make internal reform much more difficult. We may recall Thorstein Veblens more than a century-old description of war-making as having an unequivocal regressive cultural value: it makes for a conservative animus on the part of the population and during wartime civil rights are in abeyance; and the more warfare and armament the more abeyance. At the same time war-making directs the popular interest to other, nobler, institutionally less hazardous matters than the unequal distribution of wealth or of creature comforts.10 With a permanent war system in place, the vetting of political candidates and the budgetary and policy demands of the important institutions dominating the political economy, war-making and nourishing the Pentagon and other security state institutions become the highest priorities of top officials of the state. They all prepare for war on a steady basis and go to war readily, often in violation of international law and even domestic law. Subversion has long been global in scope.11 Reagans war on Nicaragua, Clintons attacks on Yugoslavia and Iraq, Bush-1s wars on Panama and Iraq, Bush-2s wars on Afghanistan, Iraq and a propagandistic War on Terror, and Obamas wars on Libya, Afghanistan, Iraq, and many other places, show an impressive continuum and growth.. Mr. Obamas Cuba and Iran policies deviate to some extent from his record of power projection by rule of force. In the case of Cuba, the opposition to recognition of the Cuban reality had diminished and a growing body of businessmen, officials and pundits, and the international community, considered the non-recognition and sanctions an obsolete and somewhat discreditable holdover from the past. It is likely that the new policy recognized the possibility of democracy promotion as a superior route to inducing changes in Cuba. It should also be noted that the policy change thus far has not included a lifting of economic sanctions, even though for many years UN Assembly votes against those sanctions have been in the order of 191-2 (in 2015). A more immediate factor in the changed policy course may have been the fact that several Latin American countries threatened to boycott the 2015 OAS Summit if Cuba was not admitted. As Jane Franklin notes, Obama had to make a choice. He could refuse to attend and therefore be totally isolated or he could join in welcoming Cuba and be a statesman.12 Obama chose to be a statesman. In the case of Iran, the new agreement (The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action signed in Vienna on July 14, 2015) was hammered out in an environment in which Iran had long been made the villain that needed to be constrained. This followed years of demonizing and pressure on Iran to scale back its nuclear program, regularly claimed, without evidence, to be aiming at developing nuclear weapons. U.S. hegemony is nowhere better displayed than in the fact that Iran was encouraged to develop a nuclear program when ruled by the Shah of Iran, a U.S.-sponsored dictator, but has been under steady attack for any nuclear effort whatsoever since his replacement by a regime opposed by the United States, with the steady cooperation of the UN and international community. Israel is a major regional rival of Iran, and having succeeded in getting the United States to turn lesser rivals, Iraq and Libya, into failed states, it has been extremely anxious to get the United States to do the same to Iran. And Israels leaders have pulled out all the stops in getting its vast array of U.S. politicians, pundits, intellectuals and lobbying groups to press for a U.S. military assault on Iran.13 The tensions between the United States and Iran have been high for years, with a sanctions war already in place. But with many military engagements in progress, tensions with Russia over Ukraine and Syria at a dangerous level, and perhaps resentment at the attempted political bullying by Israeli leaders, the Obama administration chose to negotiate with Iran rather than fight. The agreement finally arrived at with Iran calls for more intrusive inspections and some scaling down of Irans nuclear program, while it frees Iran from some onerous sanctions and threats. This was a rare moment of peace-making, and probably the finest moment in the years of the Kings rule. Iran is still treated as a menace and in need of close surveillance. But there was a slowing-down in the drift toward a new and larger war, allowing the Obama administration to focus more on warring in Iraq and Syria and taking on any other threat to U.S. national security. Notes First posted at Z Magazine. Click for Spanish , German , Dutch , Danish , French , translation- Note- Translation may take a moment to load. What's your response? - Scroll down to add / read comments Sign up for our FREE Daily Email Newsletter For Email Marketing you can trust Donate Please read our Comment Policy before posting - It is unacceptable to slander, smear or engage in personal attacks on authors of articles posted on ICH. Those engaging in that behavior will be banned from the comment section. Testing Out Repression in Israel Jeff Halper, co-founder of the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions, sees the brutal practice of destroying Palestinian homes and similar tactics as part of an experiment in social repression that can have broader implications as income inequality spreads across the globe, as he told Dennis J Bernstein. By Dennis J Bernstein February 29, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - " Consortium News " - Israeli author and human rights activist Jeff Halper who has challenged the Israeli practice of destroying Palestinian homes (usually for simply building after being denied a permit) attempts to answer the question why the world continues to accept such repeated brutalities perpetrated by the Israelis against a million-plus locked-down, very poor Palestinians. Halper detects a quid pro quo, a violent marriage of convenience in which Israel offers its expertise in helping governments pursue their various wars against the people and, in return, they permit it to expand its settlements and control throughout the Palestinian territory. Halpers latest book, War Against the People: Israel, the Palestinians and Global Pacification, focuses on a global Palestine, and how Israel exports its Occupation its weaponry, its models and tactics of control and its security and surveillance systems, all developed and perfected on the Palestinians to countries around the world engaged in asymmetrical warfare, or domestic securitization, both forms of war against the people. He contextualizes Israels globalization of Palestine within the capitalist world system. Inherently unequal, exploitative, violent and increasingly unsustainable, Capitalism must pursue innumerable wars against the people if it is to enforce its global hegemony. These are precisely the types of wars counterinsurgency, asymmetrical warfare, counter-terrorism, urban warfare and the overall securitization of societies, including those of the Global North in which Israel specializes. Halper, whose activism also includes work for over a decade as a community organizer in the working-class Mizrahi (Middle Eastern) Jewish neighborhoods of Jerusalem, is a coordinator of the Wars Against the People project of The People Yes! Network; he has served as the Chairman of the Israeli Committee for Ethiopian Jews; he was an active participant in the first attempt of the Free Gaza Movement to break Israels crippling economic siege on the Gaza Strip by sailing into Gaza in 2008; hes an active member of the international support committee of the Bertrand Russell Tribunal on Palestine; and he was nominated by the American Friends Service Committee for the 2006 Nobel Peace Prize, together with the Palestinian intellectual and activist Ghassan Andoni. Halper spoke recently with Dennis J Bernstein. DB: Lets talk a little bit about house demolitions, before we get into this book and what youre talking about in terms of the way in which Israel perfects and then exports oppression. Talk a little bit about your work with the houses. JH: Well, Im an Israeli activist. I grew up in the States, actually, in Minnesota, but Ive lived in Israel now for more than 40 years. Ive been involved all those years with the Israeli peace movement. And for the last 20 years Ive been the head of the Israeli Committee Against House Demolitions, as you mentioned. We call ourselves ICAHD. And thats a political organization thats trying to fight the Israeli occupation, and achieve a just peace between Israelis and Palestinians. But [we also operate] in order to give people an idea of what occupation means, which is kind of an abstract term sometimes, and how it works, and what Israels intentions are. Now, as an anthropologist, I tried to read political intentions from what the powers are doing on the ground, not from what theyre saying. We took the issue of house demolitions as our focal point. Israel has demolished 47,000 Palestinian homes in the occupied territories since 1967, since the occupation began. [T]hats on the background of about 60,000 homes that were demolished in 1948, in what the Palestinians call the Nakba. Thousands and more are demolished inside Israel all the time, of Israeli citizens, all of whom are Arabs. For example, there is one Bedouin community in the Negev thats been demolished now 90 times, and rebuilt. DB: Same community. JH: The same community. And weve all gone out and rebuilt with them, and its been re-demolished. Because they want to build a military settlement on top. And this is inside Israel. And a lot of these Bedouin men serve in the Israeli army. So one of the points of house demolitions is that we cant really separate the occupation from Israel itself. We think the two state solution is gone, its over. And basically Israel has created already one state which is an apartheid state. I mean, theres only one government, one army, one water system, one currency between the Mediterranean and the Jordan River, in the entire country. We dont even call the occupied territories, occupied, we call them Judea and Samaria. Jerusalem, East Jerusalem, the Palestinian side has been annexed. So there is one country today. And what the house demolition issue shows is that, yes, in fact Israel is still demolishing homes, still ethnically cleansing the Palestinian population, after 70 years. And so what we do is we first of all, we resist demolitions. I get in front of bulldozers, we resist. We also rebuild homes. We built 189 homes, which takes quite a bit of resources, activists coming from all over the world. So if you think of it in political terms, 189 political acts of resistance, of Israelis and Palestinians, and Internationals together. I think that is meaningful. And then we take what we learn on the ground, our analysis is genuinely grounded, and we go abroad, like I am now here in the Bay Area, to try to work with the activists. First of all, to update them on whats happening and to give them focus. But in general, as you are saying, to raise this issue thats so difficult to raise in the mainstream American media, or even in universities. You can get fired for raising this issue. DB: And you do. JH: And people have been, thats right. So were trying to go from the micro to the macro. From actually resisting demolitions on the ground, but really from there with our pictures and our maps and our analyses, to say Why is Israel demolishing these homes? Where is it going with this whole thing? And then bringing that analysis forward to try to mobilize the international community to finally end the occupation. DB: Before we jump into the bigger picture, I want you to paint a little bit more of a picture of the nature of house demolition. So, what happens? Somebody shows up at your house? Hows that work? JH: Well, there are three kinds of demolitions, actually. Just briefly, you know if you think of demolition, you think well, these must be homes of terrorists. Thats what Israel leads you to think, but its not true. Of the 47,000 homes in the occupied territories that have been demolished, about 1 percent were demolished for security reasons. It has nothing to do with security or terrorism or anything like that. Those are what we call punitive demolitions. In fact, Israel demolishes most homes in military incursions. For example, last summer, the summer of 2014, in the assault on Gaza, 18,000 homes were demolished, and not targeted. Its kind of collateral damage that have not been rebuilt. And you think, Its the Middle East, but it can be pretty freezing in Gaza in the winter. And these homes have not been rebuilt. The third way of demolishing, that we work most on, is that Israel simply has zoned it uses very dry-grade, Kafkaesque mechanisms to control Palestinians. So it zoned the whole of the West Bank and East Jerusalem as agricultural land. So, although most of it is desert, the Aegean Desert, when a Palestinian who owns land comes to the Israeli authorities and says, I want to build a home, their answer is, Sorry, but this is agricultural land. Of course, if you want to build an Israeli settlement I mean there are 600,000 Israelis. They live on that same land in the occupied territory. But, of course, Israelis sit on the planning councils. So if you want to rezone from agriculture to residential, it takes you a second. So its really the manipulation of law and planning. And so thats the point. Palestinians since 1967, were talking about 50 years now, have not been allowed to build new homes. You have children, and your children have children, and you have nowhere to live. And if you build a home, you are building illegally, right, because you dont have a building permit. And so immediately you get a demolition order from the Israeli army and they can come any time. They can come tomorrow morning, they can come next week, they can come in five years, maybe youll win the lottery [and] theyll never come. Who knows? So even if youre living in your home, year after year, you are not living as securely, relaxed. Your home is not your castle. DB: Because there always could be that knock on the door. JH: I talked to many Palestinian women that say to me, The first thing I do when I wake up in the morning is I look out the window, to see if there are bulldozers, the army, police. And if the coast is clear, I get dressed and wake up the kids and start making breakfast. Thats the psychological state that Palestinians are living in. DB: Lets talk about this book. Lets talk about how you say Israel uses the occupied territories as a training ground, a weapons and control of people training ground, which is then exported. Its sort of Israels front line, forward trade. This concept, and these weapons, and this technology, and these techniques, are then sold to the rest of the world. Set that up for us. JH: Over all the years of my activism, it was kind of a question that was in the back of my mind, nagging me all the time. And that was, How does Israel get away with this? After all, were in the Twenty-first Century, were well after the period of colonialism. Human rights [and] international law have entered into the public consciousness. I mean, they kind of matter to people. Here you have a brutal occupation, on T.V. all the time. I mean, this isnt happening in the Congo or Vietnam. This is in the glare of television cameras, in the Holy Land, no less! How does Israel get away with it? And the usual explanations you know, AIPAC [American Israel Public Affairs Committee] and Christian fundamentalists and the Israeli lobby, and guilt over the Holocaust it just doesnt work. That doesnt explain why China supports Israel the way it does, and Nigeria, India. There was some big elephant in the room that we werent talking about, that I wasnt seeing myself, to explain that. And as I sort of looked up at Israels place in the world, I suddenly discovered, in a way, that actually, the quid quo pro is that Israel delivers to elites all over the world. Whether you are here in the global north, (the United States or Europe), in the middle, (Brazil, India, China, Turkey, Mexico), or a poor country in the global south, you all have elites, that are struggling for control. And I put this within the context of the capitalist world system. You have a neoliberal world system. OXFAM came out with a report two weeks ago. Now, 1 percent of the population controls half the resources: most of humanity has been excluded as surplus humanity. You have more and more repression, especially as resources are being extracted from poor people. And theyre excluded. So theres more and more resistance. You had the Occupy Movement and youve got Black Lives Matter. Theres more and more resistance, so that the capitalist world system, itself, and all the different elites that are dependent upon it, somehow have to start looking more and more towards repression. In other words, capitalism always tried to have a happy face: Ronald McDonald, and Hollywood and Walt Disney. But the more people are starting to see through it, and are starting to see those inequalities , the velvet glove over the iron fist has to come [off]. And so the elites are getting more and more insecure. But the kinds of wars theyre fighting are not the wars we think of. You know, Rambo and F16s and tanks theyre not those kinds of wars. They are what generals actually are calling, Wars Amongst the People. I took that to say what that really is, which is, War Against the People. In other words, urban warfare, counter-insurgency, counter-terrorism. Its also called asymmetrical wars. There are a million terms. So, really the elites in every country, and then if you take it within the world system, the capitalist elites certainly, the capitalist part of the corporation, and so on, are looking for, How do we keep the people under control? Now, wheres a better place to go for a model than Israel? The United States doesnt have that experience. Europe hasnt had colonial wars for 50 years now. So Israel is in the middle of an ongoing century-long war of counterinsurgency against the Palestinian people. All these years, it has the tactics, it has the methods, it has the weaponry. It has the systems of security, systems of surveillance, all in place to export. And so thats, I think, how you can explain how Israel gets away with it. It delivers for the elites. Well deliver you the means of repressing your own populations, and in return you let us keep the occupation. DB: Im not sure how to ask this question, but is there evidence of the training ground part of this, in which, say, for instance, weapons are introduced for the first time on the battlefield, or drones, in Palestine? How does this theory [work], in terms of testing the weapons first and then exporting war? JH: Well, first of all I document it and write about it in my book. There are a thousand footnotes, in the book. DB: We love footnotes. JH: But whats interesting is the Israeli arms dealers, security companies are proud of this. I mean were talking now this could be seen in two ways. This could be seen as being critical of Israel, and the capitalist world. I think people understand that thats where were coming from in this program. But I could be saying the same thing, and I could sound like the Israeli Chamber of Commerce. Wow, thats great, I mean Israel developing these effective systems, theyre helping keep the bad people and the terrorists under control, theyre securing us. Wow, thats great. And so [on]. DB: And they are training police departments in the U.S. JH: Thats right, exactly. Especially, not especially, but also in California. So, in other words, the arms companies, and the security companies, (theres about 500 of them in Israel, alone, which is an old country), think this is a great thing. In other words, theyre not embarrassed by it, , and so the best source of information is just their web sites. Because whats the point of developing a cutting edge surveillance system on Palestinians. ? You know there are 600 checkpoints in the West Bank. Youve got millions of Palestinians that you can use as guinea pigs: literally in a laboratory. No wonder Israel is leading in airport security, and runs airports all over the United States. But theres no point in developing these systems if youre not marketing them, if youre not selling them, if youre not making a name for yourself. So, in fact, all these 500 companies in Israel that sell this stuff, all have web sites. And theyre all blaring their product. So its not hidden. On the contrary, like Im saying, if you put it within a certain context, this is actually seen as a positive contribution to the world. If you look at the world, from, you know, the way the media that you mentioned, present it, its good that Israel is helping us defend ourselves against terrorists. But putting it in a critical way within the world system, we show that, in fact, security is not a neutral term. There really isnt security. The security is really defined by the interests of the ruling classes. Writing the book, Im aware of the fact that thats language that kind of sounds old fashioned. But it really isnt. It really is even more today, its truer than it was before. The ruling classes are much more organized, they have much more fire power, are much more coordinated with each other, and so on. And actually, with scarcer and scarcer resources, they have a much more focused agenda, in terms of extraction and control. So actually, the term ruling class should be more in use today. The ruling classes have their interests and they package it under the word security because who doesnt want to be secure? And what Im saying in the book, and thats why the subtitle talks about global pacification, is Im saying, Were actually being pacified. In other words, were being repressed to a point where we cant resist. So you wanna be secure? Fine. Do you want to be pacified? And once you start using words like pacification, that raises questions that the word security doesnt raise. Whos pacifying me? How are they pacifying me? Why are they pacifying me? And so my book, I hope, it gives you sort of a window into the way the large world system works. I call it Globalized Palestine. In a sense, Israel over Palestine is a microcosm of the Global North over everybody else. And so I think it is a very useful book for beginning to understand global realities that we live in. DB: You know, its interesting, if you read back some of the literature of the capitalists of the early 50s, the visionaries among them understood about the problems that would be faced in terms of the shrinking resources. And they talked extensively about the kinds of, sort of, defense and weapon systems, and the way in which our way of life would have to be protected. This is just part of that curve. JH: Thats right. And to her credit, the only one that really is using the word capitalism, that word up front in her analysis, is Naomi Klein. With The Shock Doctrine and now her new book on climate change and capitalism [This Changes Everything]. But its like that joke: One fish asks another fish, Hows the water? and the other fish says, What water? You know, you are living in this system. And it is so encompassing, and it affects everything that we do. Who our enemies are. How we dress. What our values are. How we talk. What language everything. What we eat. And its an unsustainable system. But its a system that weve kind of internalized. We dont even think about it anymore. And so thats, I think, the value of critical analysis, and bringing back that language, including language like pacification, is that really shows us that were in fact living in a very political water. And not just some normal, everyday reality that is inevitable. DB: And how would you describe the security relationship, the security sharing relationship, between the United States and Israel? JH: The United States is the primary global capitalist power. You know, it has a tremendous global reach. American corporations, more than any others, are dependent on the smooth flow of capital coming from whats called the Third World, or the global south. And of course, youve got, with the neoliberalism in the last 50 years, youve got again, within the United States the 99 percent/one percent split. Even here theres a lot of agitation, and people are starting to get it, and so on. And so the United States has a tremendous stake in this. But the United States is locked into the old concept of war. For example, the Pentagon just spent, I dont know, a trillion dollars on a new F-35: cutting edge stealth bomber. You know, a great toy. But it has no military use whatsoever. Even the generals say, We dont need [it]. [Robert] Gates, when he was Secretary of Defense, tried to cancel it. But you know how Congress works; you have every congressional district putting together pieces of it. So its jobs. But youre locked into these huge, expensive weapon systems. So thats where Israel comes in. And, of course, the United States is a tremendous, tremendous supporter of Israel. And I dont think its just because of shared values. I think its because Israel really delivers for the United States. It provides very sophisticated, high-tech components, for weapon systems. For example, this F-35, Israel couldnt produce that. But a lot of the cockpit, and the electronics and avionics, and the targeting systems are Israeli. And Israel becomes a kind of a surrogate for the United States, especially in countries where its hard for America to work. You know, Kazakhstan, Indonesia, the parts of Africa that are rough. You know, American business people are constrained because there are laws against bribes and giving bribes, and working with the mafias. These countries, a lot of them, are mafia-type countries. Israel doesnt have any of those constraints. DB: For instance, if you went through Central America in the 1980s and you saw the new Salvadoran death squad army or the Guatemalan death squad, if you didnt look at the main insignia you would think they were wearing Israeli uniforms. They were certainly trained by Israelis. JH: And they had their Uzis. DB: And they had their Uzis. JH: And they were armed. And dont forget Israel was a key part of the Contra-Iran scandal around the Nicaraguan conflict. Israel is really more than an agent of the United States. I think Israel is really providing that key strategic support in Wars Amongst the People in a way that the United States really isnt geared to doing. Its too big, the Pentagon is too big, the systems are too fancy. And Israel is supplying that middle- to lower-level type technology thats the most effective. DB: What do you think of when you hear, Is there a chance for peace? Or the Israeli Prime Minister saying hes searching desperately for a partner for peace? What goes through your mind? How do you respond to that? Here in the U.S. press, in the New York Times, they simply quote it like stenographers. JH: Thats right. I think people are getting it. I dont want to say, even Americans, but its not easy for you guys, with your media. Its not too easy for you. DB: Its real hard. You have to really look up something. JH: Obama, for example, two days ago signed into law a bill giving Israel $40 billion in new American arms over a ten-year period, 2018-2028, and basically outlawing BDS, the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement that people are using like we did with South Africa, to put pressures on Israel, to end the occupation. Now its American law, or its going through, at least, to be American law, that the United States wont deal with companies or countries in Europe or other places that support BDS. So its very actively supporting Israel. It isnt just some generalized thing. And as long as that happens, especially Congress, as long as Congress is in Israels pocket, uncritically, we have to say here from Bernie Sanders to Trump. . Were talking across the board Israel has nothing to worry about. And so it can pursue these interests of itself, in terms of keeping the occupation. That is why Israel doesnt theres no pressure on Israel to end the occupation. Because if it has the American Congress on its side, on the one hand, and Germany on its side in Europe, that keeps Europe in line. Nobody can touch us. Were home free. And they can insult Obama, and they can say terrible things about Kerry. I mean, Netanyahu is a conservative Republican, and he says it. You know, he can go to Congress, here he gets Republicans to invite him to the American Congress, both sessions of Congress, including the Democrats come. And in his 20-minute talk, this is a number of months ago, his 20-minute talk against making the agreement with Iran. So here hes going against the President and American government policy, a foreign head of state, invited by the American Congress including the Presidents own party, to speak out against an American government policy. And in his 20-minute talk he was given a standing ovation 42 times! The Israeli press was laughing. The Israeli press said its like the North Korean parliament. So its hard, its almost hard to explain the degree to which Israel has penetrated into American politics. Its almost like a domestic American issue, like apple pie, and thats what makes it very difficult. But I think that Americans arent aware of how isolated theyre becoming, in the world, because of this uncritical support for Israel. Because it isnt only supporting Israel against Palestinians. Palestinians have a special emblematic status among oppressed peoples in the world. Heres a little people thats standing up to Israel, the Israeli army, the American neo-colonialism, Europe, and its resisting. It hasnt been defeated. So that gives hope to oppressed peoples. But beyond that, when you are in the U.N. in repeated votes and its the United States, Israel and Micronesia, against everybody else, including your European allies, you know, it sends a message to the world that the United States is completely out of sync, and its hostile to human rights. And that I think isolates the United States in a way that the American people dont really appreciate. DB: Wow. Well, that is all a mouthful Dr. Jeff Halper. We just have 30 seconds left, but let me just ask you this. You must have been arrested. People dont love what youre doing in Israel. Are you afraid to do what you do? Why do you do what you do? JH: I mean, I always say jokingly, but its true, Israel is a vibrant democracy if you are Jewish. If youre Jewish you have that privilege. You have that space to do it. Nobody bothers me. DB: By the way, thats what Jeane Kirkpatrick said about South Africa, she said its a partial democracy, the whites have a chance to vote. JH: Exactly. And thats the situation. But if youre not Jewish its a pretty repressive place to live, pretty violent. And now, of course, theres legislation going through the parliament to marginalize us as well. If we go to parliament the left groups, just the left groups, are going to have to wear a tag. As if were foreign lobbies. DB: Maybe a yellow star? JH: Were playing with what that tag is going to look like. But really its true. Theyre not even aware of the background, the implications. You know, Israel is becoming so fascistic, really. I mean Im not just using that as a slogan, that its replicating very dark times of other countries. Its an irony that here Israel would do something like that. DB: So are you afraid? JH: No, Im not afraid. I mean, certainly things could happen. And its getting harder and harder to protest in Israel. But Im not afraid. You know, I just keep plugging on, what can I tell you? Dennis J Bernstein is a host of Flashpoints on the Pacifica radio network and the author of Special Ed: Voices from a Hidden Classroom . You can access the audio archives at www.flashpoints.net . Orwell Bienvenue to France Encore! By Finian Cunningham February 29, 2016 " Information Clearing House " - " SCF " - France is in the throes of a secret war in Libya in audacious violation of international law. But to report on this criminality is an offense! Welcome to the Orwellian world of double-think that the French state has entered. A report in French newspaper Le Monde this week lifted the lid on Frances clandestine operations in the North African country. It said that French special forces were conducting covert missions to set up air strikes against the Islamic State terror group. The mission has been authorized by French President Francois Hollande, according to Le Monde. The special forces are being deployed for discreet action to prepare strikes on Islamist targets. Immediately, Frances Defense Minister Jean-Yves Le Drian came down on the publication like a ton of bricks, alleging that the newspaper may have compromised national state security. State-owned news channel, France 24, quoted a spokesman for Le Drian as saying: When secret operations are taking place, the goal is they are not revealed for the security of the men and the operations. Or, to put it more accurately: when criminal, unlawful violations against other countrys sovereignty and international law are taking place, the goal is they must not be revealed to the public. Otherwise the authors of such crimes will be seen for what they are: rogue-state criminals. No wonder Monsieur Le Drian has been photographed this week looking more grumpy than usual. The repercussions could be severe for Le Monde, or any other news outlet, reporting on the matter. The French government says it is probing if there has been a leak of classified information over the report. Violation of French defense secrecy rules carries a penalty of up to three years in prison and a fine of 45,000 ($50,000). So lets get this straight. French elite military forces and agents belonging to the state intelligence service, DGSE, are present in Libya and are ordering in air strikes against jihadist targets, according to Le Monde. Yet, to report on this French state-sponsored lawlessness is potentially a crime, according to those who are responsible for the bigger crime of violating a countrys sovereignty. The chilling effect on independent journalism is no doubt fully intended. Government commits crimes, dont report it, seems to be the watchword. Le Monde is not the only news outlet disclosing the Western ratcheting up of war again in Libya. In the past week, the New York Times reported that American, British, French and Italian special forces were operating in Libya. It is understood that these combined covert forces do not have any legal mandate for conducting their activity. There is no UN mandate for such operations, and there are no Libyan authorities worth talking about to give approval. This is simply unmitigated lawlessness writ large. Since the US and other NATO forces bombed the hell out of Libya for seven months in 2011, resulting in up to 30,000 Libyan deaths and the overthrow of the government of Muammar Gaddafi, and his murder by NATO-backed jihadists, the country has been in a state of utter chaos, riven by feuding militias. Any central authority that existed in Libya has been pulverized by NATO. The French government in particular under former President Nicolas Sarkozy bears heavy responsibility for turning the once-prosperous Libya into this failed abject state. Since then, the Americans and their Western allies have been able to bomb Libya at will. Last November, a US air strike reportedly killed an Islamic State commander, Abu Nabil, in the east of the country. Last week, another US air strike hit an alleged IS training camp in Sabathra, west of Tripoli, killing more than 40. Following that latest strike, the so-called unity government of Libya, based in exile in Tunis, which the Western powers have been trying to cobble together, even condemned that action as a violation of Libyan sovereignty. The NATO powers have destroyed Libyan sovereignty, and yet even a shell of governing semblance, which the West endorses, has raised objection to Western military interference. This is Orwellian beyond words. Bombed state, failed state, jihadist chaos, the West then bombs to allegedly defeat terror groups it helped install in this failed state, and there is no national authority to properly object, because NATO obliterated such authorities; and then when a news organization reports on the latest twist in this state-sponsored criminality it is threatened with compromising state security. There is no other way to assess this. France, as with its other Western accomplices led by the US, is descending into full-blown fascism. Lawlessness is the norm. Bombing countries has become a preordained, god-given right. And if reported on, then prosecution follows. And why should we be surprised? France embraced fascism 75 years ago when the Vichy state became a willing, zealous collaborator with Nazi Germany and its genocidal program. Tens of thousands of French citizens were shunted off in trains to be exterminated in fascist death camps by their French rulers. Today, under the rubric of combating terrorism terrorism that Paris fomented in Libya and Syria the French authorities have imposed a state of emergency on their citizens. French President Hollande and his shrill prime minister Manuel Valls declare that France is at war against the Islamic State terror group a network that came to life through illegal French sponsorship of jihadists to overthrow the governments of Libya and Syria. French state emergency powers have permitted thousands of French homes to be raided without warrants in recent months since the terror attacks in Paris on November 13. The French rulers give themselves fascistic powers against citizens over a case of terror blow back blow back that they have largely created through their international lawlessness in the first place. Now the state sponsors of terrorism who destroyed Libya are giving themselves carte blanche to go back into Libya under the pretext of fighting terrorism to maraud and bomb that country with special forces. Step back and see it for what it is. We are on a path of wanton lawlessness, fascism and perdition. The very people in government who should be held to account and prosecuted for international crimes are committing more such crimes under their own self-referencing criminality. And when the public ought to know about this, the rogues in government then throw up their spurious self-justifying claims of national security and threaten to lock-up violators. The conceited French notions about free speech and human rights are so overblown. So, so overblown. Meanwhile, despicable history of actual participation in fascist crimes are so overlooked and pushed down the memory hole. Well, we might know why the latter is. Because the same French ruling establishment is once again embracing the vile darkness of the past. Young Ghanaian actor, Abraham Attah, has disclosed that 10,000 pairs of the shoes he wore on the red carpet at Sundays 88th Academy Awards (Oscars) will be donated to charity in Ghana. The 15-year-old Beasts of No Nation star and Oscar award presenter arrived at the Award ceremony Sunday dressed in a black tuxedo and velvet TOMS shoes. Abraham, who caught everyones attention with his classic look, disclosed to E! correspondent, Ryan Seacrest that the shoe brand will donate 10,000 pairs of shoes to Ghanaians. The donation is in line with TOMS, which is a for-profit shoe brand, with the aim of donating a pair of shoes to children in need for every pair sold. Abraham Attah also wore a lace-up TOMS to the Independent Spirit Awards on Saturday night where he won Best Male Lead. Touching on presenting an award at the Oscars this year, Attah told Ryan Seacrest that he was not nervous to mount the stage. Yeah, its pretty crazy because I didnt imagine that this is how huge it is going to be at the Oscars and this is my first time too. No, I am not nervous the first time I came to Hollywood I got nervous but now Im not, Attah said. Source: MyJoyOnline The Abia State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has called for the removal of the present crop of the Independent National Electoral Commissions officials ahead of the March 5 re-run elections. The APC made the call during a press briefing addressed by a delegation of key party officials from Abia State, who met the acting national chairman, Engr. Segun Oni, in Abuja yesterday in preparation for the Abia North senatorial district and Aba North state constituency re-run elections. The delegation, which includes the state party chairman, the governorship candidate, Dr. Nyerere Anyim, South-East ex-officio member, Chief Nduka Anyanwu, members of state caucus, former ministers, senators and deputy governors, a former two-time Speaker, and zonal woman leader, was led by Chief Sam Nkire. Nkire, who spoke on behalf of the delegation, said judging from its experience, the APC did not have confidence in the composition of INEC in Abia State. He warned that the party would not condone any form of harassment, intimidation and rigging, and urged the other contestants to play by the rules. Also speaking, a former speaker of the state house of assembly, Hon. Stanley Ugochukwu Ohajuruka, who is also a member of the state caucus, claimed that some candidates in the re-run polls had been boasting that they were in control of the INEC, in addition to the tacit support of the security apparatus in the state. Ohajuruka, however, said the APC had the capacity to win the elections if a level playing field was provided for all contestants in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP)-controlled state. There is an upsurge of kidnapping in Abia state now. We have requested that enough attention should be given to this issue of kidnapping, particularly in Aba and its environs. We see it as a tactic to scare leaders who will probably come around to ensure that that election is conducted in a free and fair manner. One thing that has characterized Abia state election is rigging. Most times results are written. Its not what transpired in the field. What we are saying now in advance is that we are in an era of change. We want the world to know that we will not accept writing of results outside what transpired in the field, he said. At least 30 people were killed in twin bomb attacks claimed by al-Shabab at a busy traffic junction and a nearby restaurant in southern Somalia. The attacks in Baidoa on Sunday were part of the armed groups campaign of violence in its effort to topple Somalias UN-backed government. The official number of the dead has reached 30 people all of them civilians and 61 others have been wounded, 15 of them seriously, Abdirashid Abdullahi, governor of the Bay region, told the AFP news agency. Baidoa lies about 245km northwest of the capital, Mogadishu. The death toll went up overnight after more people died at the hospital, and could rise further with several of the wounded in critical condition, Abdullahi said. The attack follows a car bomb attack in Mogadishu near a park and hotel on Friday that killed 14 people, police said. A police officer said a suicide car bomb blew up at the junction, while a second blast possibly a bomb that had been planted or a suicide bomber struck the restaurant. We targeted government officials and forces, Sheikh Abdiasis Abu Musab, al-Shababs military operation spokesman, told Reuters news agency. He said there was a police station near by. Abdirahman Ahmed, a witness who was inside the hotel at the time, said gunfire erupted after the explosion. The blast was so huge and windows broken everywhere but the gunfire was outside. Everyone was safe inside, but terrified, said Ahmed. Regional official Sharif Hassan Sheikh Aden appealed to national and international support to care of the victims, saying the region did not have sufficient medical facilities. Aljazeera. The All Progressives Congress (APC), in Ekiti State has described Governor Ayodele Fayoses recent outburst against President Muhammadu Buhari as a desperate ploy by the governor to escape an impeding justice over his many crimes against the state. Fayose, had at a thanksgiving service for the Rivers State governor, Nyesom Wike in Port Harcourt, accused President Buhari of making subtle moves to make Nigeria an Islamic nation. The APC noted that Fayoses recent unwarranted outbursts against President Buhari, including allegation that the President wanted to islamise Nigeria, were disgraceful and intended to sway public sympathy in his favour when the law catches up with him over his many alleged crimes against the state. President Buhari had travelled to Saudi Arabia and Qatar to hold talks on oil prices, trade and investment, secure funds from Islamic lenders and participate in lesser Hajj. President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered a probe into the deadly clashes between herdsmen and indigenes of communities in Benue State. President Buhari, who expressed deep shock at the latest incident during the past week, which led to hundreds of deaths in four communities in Agatu, Benue State, ordered security agencies to get to the root causes of the problem. We will conduct an investigation to know exactly what happened; the only way to bring an end to the violence once and for all is to look beyond one incident and ascertain exactly what factors are behind the conflicts, he said. The president added that all Nigerians must learn to live together as one, in peace and unity. We are all one nation and one people, he said. There should not be any reason why Nigerians of any group or tongue cannot now reside with one another wherever they find themselves after decades of living together. He further expressed condolences to the government and people of Benue State, particularly the people of the Agatu communities, assuring them that the government would do everything possible to ensure that no such incident ever occurred in their midst again. Once the investigations are concluded, we will act immediately to address the root of the problem, President Buhari said. President Muhammadu Buhari has assured the Qatari business community in that Nigeria under his leadership would remove any impediments that can hinder investment in the country. The president gave the assurance during a meeting with senior executives of the Qatar Chamber of Commerce and some private businessmen in Doha on Sunday. According to him, security is essential to prosperity and development. Buhari, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina, said: Nobody invests without first knowing how secure a country is. That is why we have placed high premium on securing the country, because you cannot effectively manage a country you have not secured. My party campaigned on three main planks security, employment generation and anti-corruption. We campaigned on zero corruption, promising that we would run an accountable government and we are keeping our promises. Making reference to the crash in the global crude oil prices and its effect on the Nigerian economy, President Buhari informed his hosts that Nigeria is blessed with vast arable land for agriculture, and rich deposit of solid minerals, which the businessmen can invest in, and reap rich returns in a short while. He said: Agriculture and solid minerals will mobilize youths for gainful employment. We have the capacity not to need to import food at all. But we need to also tackle infrastructure deficit in power, transportation, rail, road, and in other areas. We will put together an articulated plan, which would be discussed with you shortly, so that you can make investment decisions. All impediments like delayed processing of permits, multiple taxation, and corrupt practices, would be removed. Speaking on behalf of the Qatari businessmen, Muhammed Bin Ahmed Bin Towar Al Kuwari, Vice Chairman of Qatar Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said they would be interested in the finance, oil and gas, telecommunications, tourism, agriculture and food processing sectors, among others. All eyes are on Africa in the next decade. Africa is the next place for growth, the rest of the world is looking towards the continent, and Nigeria is an important part of that continent, Al Kuwari said. Governor David Umahi of Ebonyi State has dismissed speculations in some quarters that his open support for President Muhammadu Buhari is an indication of his desire to defect to the governing All Progressives Congress (APC). He made the clarification during a reception in his honour by the Old Afikpo Union (OAU) at the Government College, Afikpo, at the weekend. According to Gov. Umahi, his cordial relationship with President Buhari should not be mistaken to be a support for the APC, adding that his party, the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, still remains the party to beat. He also pledged his continued support of the Buhari administration, which he said means well for the country. My relationship with Mr. President should not be mistaken as support for another party. PDP remains a strong party, and the party to beat. PDP is our party and we will remain in it. Dont shake at all for PDP is a good party and will continue to be so, Mr. Umahi said. The governor also urged the people to continue to support President Buharis efforts to re-position the country. A former Aviation Minister, Chief Femi Fani-Kayode, has declared readiness to meet the national chairman of Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Senator Ali Modu Sheriff in court. The former minister had condemned in very strong terms the emergence of Mr. Sheriff as national chairman of the party, accusing him of being a founder of Boko Haram. But the PDP chairman, a two-term governor of Borno State, in an advertorial, threatened to sue Mr. Fani-Kayode for libel even as he vowed not to work with those fomenting crisis within the opposition party. In his reaction to Sheriffs threat to sue, the ex-minister, in a statement yesterday by Jude Ndukwe, his spokesperson, said: Though we have not received a formal letter from his lawyers to that effect, we wish to inform him and members of the public that we stand by everything that we have said about Sheriff. Mr. Fani-Kayode, who was spokesperson of the PDP Presidential Campaign Organization, said he had briefed his lawyers and they are ready to entertain any suit Mr. Sheriff may file against him in court. The days of silencing people with arrogant threats and frivolous litigation are long over, the statement continued. We cannot be silenced by Modu Sheriffs threat to sue and we are not losing any sleep over it. Mr. Fani-Kayode pointed out that any move by Senator Sheriff to sue him will prove in his words, not only to be counter-productive for him, but by the time it is all over, he will get the shocker of his life. ` Punch Nigerians have expressed outrage over the alleged abduction of 14-year-old Ese Oruru by one Yinusa, aka Yellow, who also forced her into marriage. Vanguard NnewiThe Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB has warned those who are claiming to be representing the group, including the members of Ohanaeze Ndigbo and its youth wing to stop such move, that nobody speaks or represents them, unless such a person or persons are designated officers of IPOB worldwide. Daily Times The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) has fined MTN Nigeria and Globacom Ltd (Glo) a total of N34 million for breach of the Mobile Number Portability (MNP) business rules and regulations. Guardian IN his reaction to the renewed clashes between Fulani herdsmen and indigenes of some communities in Benue State, President Muhammadu Buhari has ordered an investigation into the incident with a view to determining the remote causes. Daily Trust The N3.6 trillion ($12 billion) standard coastal railway line contract awarded before the 2015 elections did not follow regulations guiding contract award, a House of Representatives committee has revealed in an interim report. National Mirror Nigeria and the State of Qatar yesterday in Doha signed a Bilateral Air Services Agreement, BASA, to pave way for direct flights between major cities of both countries. Tribune President Muhammadu Buhari has said that there is hope that the Nigerian youths can make the nation greater and better than it is currently , just as he said that he does not have the magic wand to effect change alone. The Nation Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) spokesman Olisa Metuh has faulted his trial by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), arguing that the agency failed to establish his guilt. The immediate past Governor of Sokoto State, Senator Aliyu Wamakko, yesterday pleaded with Nigerians to exercise more patience with President Muhammadu Buhari, reassuring that the present administration had good plans for the country. Wamakko, who represents Sokoto Central on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC), said the presidents style of leadership was good for the advancement of the country. He has a vision for a stronger, united and independent Nigeria in terms of infrastructure, economic development, security and social justice as well as respect for law and order, he said. The former governor, who spoke in Tureta, the headquarters of Tureta Local Government of Sokoto State, at the inauguration of the councils election campaigns of the party, stressed that the federal and Sokoto State governments had good intentions to revamp agriculture, solid minerals and other key sectors of the economy. Wamakko said: Nigerians need to be patient and prayerful, as there is light at the end of the tunnel. The Senate Committee Chairman on Education (Basic and Secondary), described the incumbent Governor, Aminu Waziri Tambuwal as a worthy successor, who has the interest of the people at heart. Earlier, Tambuwal promised to sustain his predecessors legacies and initiate new programmes and policies with bearing on the people. He said: I will strengthen and focus on education, health, agriculture, youths and women empowerment, among others. Gov. Tambuwal expressed confidence that APC would win the chairmanship seats in the 23 local governments and 244 councillorship seats in the state. The party Chairman, Alhaji Suleiman Danmadamin-Isa, said APC was determined to consolidate its victory, adding that the people would vote the party during the polls. The immediate past Senior Special Assistant to former President Goodluck Jonathan on Media and Publicity, Dr. Doyin Okupe, has described the recent comment by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo that no new road has been successfully built and completed by government in the last ten years as a lie and an absolute falsehood. The vice president had while speaking at the Pastors and Leaders Retreat of the Fountain of Life Church, Ilupeju, Lagos on Friday, stressed that unless the menace of corruption is tackled frontally, the present administration may not be able to achieve much. The federal government in the past 10 years could not build a single new road, not repairing existing ones alone, Osinbajo, a Professor of Law and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, said adding Now, we have a president, who will not steal money and who will not allow anybody to steal money. In his reaction on Sunday via a Facebook post, the former presidential spokesman described the VPs comment as unfortunate, adding Mr. Osinbajo, who he holds in very high esteem, made a wrong statement, in a wrong place and before a wrong audience. He wrote: This is perhaps one of the most difficult posts I have made to date. Prof Yemi Osinbajo and I have a few things in common. He is a professional in politics like me. He is a practising Christian and a revered Pastor. I am a practising christian and an aspiring Evangelist. We both are alumni of Igbobi college, Yaba. Lagos. His younger brother and mine were classmates at Igbobi and are both pastors of the fountain of life church, Ilupeju, where I became grounded in Christianity under the mentorship of the celebrated and revered man of God, Pastor Taiwo Odukoya. It was in this church and before a body of pastors undergoing a spiritual retreat that the Vice President went and said that the federal government in the last 10 years have not constructed a single new road. This statement is a lie and an absolute falsehood. Many people have said so. But this is not why I am writing this. My concern is the erroneous assumption that just because the VP is a Christian therefore every Christian is APC. This why the VPs statement is unfortunate in that it was a wrong statement made in a wrong place (church) and before a wrong audience. The church must also be sensitive and mindful of the danger in bringing politics into the church. For Prof Osinbajo, if only he remembered the Igbobi college motto omnes unum in domino meaning all are one in the Lord, he would not have committed such a blunder. Our God is God of APC, PDP, Labour etc. Having said this the VP is someone I hold in very high esteem and he knows this. I am also proud of his role in this administration. The Senate President, Dr. Bukola Saraki, has said that the 8th Senate will partner with the Executive to ensure that the policies and programmes of the present administration aimed at reviving the economy are sustained on a long term. The Senate president was quoted as saying this on Sunday in Abuja when he received the national executive of the Nigerian Mining and Geosciences Society, NMGS, led by its President, Professor Olugbenga Okunola. According to a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Sanni Onogu, Mr. Saraki told the delegation that the Senate was on a mission to ensure that the country harnessed her non-oil resources and achieved full diversification of the economy. Mr. Saraki said, For us in the 8th Senate we have said it that our focus is to continue to give support to those sectors of our economy that will provide employment, increase the earnings of government and the growth of the economy in general. And if you are talking about the growth of the economy, you have to give particular consideration to the mining sector. And what do we need to do to get that done? I want to assure you that the message I will like you to take away is that the 8th Senate is ready to give all the support in ensuring that we truly begin to harness the hitherto the unexplored and neglected potentials that we have. We have been talking about these potentials for a long time. It is time to talk about realising the potentials and translating them to economic power. That is our own vision and mission. We have all seen the downside of being a mono-product economy. We are all suffering from it now. When you see what is happening to our revenues, our foreign exchange inflows and particularly what is happening to even the foreign exchange rate due to our over dependence on crude oil. The projection that it is going to be down for a couple of years means that any serious minded country needs to look at the options available. And some of the things we are seeing now is because there is a lot of speculation out there. A lot of the speculators believe that we dont have the political will to see through some of the policies and programmes aimed at diversifying the economy and that is why you see a lot of them are betting against the Naira. That is why you see all of a sudden, the Naira is rebounding because they are beginning to see that it appears that this government is committed on its policy. I want to assure you that we are committed. The political will is there. We are very determined to see that we diversify. All these things you are talking about are well known to a lot of us. The frustration has been that we have not been able to see it through. I want to assure you that this Senate is committed to ensure that we support the executive in sustaining these long term polices. This is important and that is where we must start from. Earlier, Mr. Okunola said the Society visited Mr. Saraki to, among others, appreciate what the 8th Senate has been doing. We have been talking about diversification of the nations economy over the years.I think as a society, as professionals, this is what we have been clamouring for over the years that we are sitting on buried riches and that the government is now saying that they want to take this serious gladdens us. That is why we are here to appreciate this government for what they are doing and we are ready to offer our professional help we are not talking in terms of financial reward but this is one thing we want to offer our country, he said. Ericsson is a world-leading provider of telecommunications equipment & services to mobile & fixed network operators. Over 1,000 networks in more than 180 countries use Ericsson equipment, & more than 40 percent of the worlds mobile traffic passes through Ericsson networks. Using innovation to empower people, business & society, we are working towards the Networked Society, in which everything that can benefit from a connection will have one. At Ericsson, we apply our innovation to market-based solutions that empower people & society to help shape a more sustainable world. We are truly a global company, working across borders in 175 countries, offering a diverse, performance-driven culture & an innovative & engaging environment where employees enhance their potential every day. Our employees live our vision, core values & guiding principles. They share a passion to win & a high responsiveness to customer needs that in turn makes us a desirable partner to our clients. To ensure professional growth, Ericsson offers a stimulating work experience, continuous learning & growth opportunities that allow you to acquire the knowledge & skills necessary to reach your career goals. Job Title: Solution Architect: Mobile Money Job Summary Responsible for analyzing, designing & developing commercially viable end-to-end technical solutions for the customers. Responsible for profitable business for Ericsson by translating customer needs, & technology opportunities into detailed technical offering, solutions & proposals. Responsibilities & Tasks Scope, define & design mobile commerce solution offerings which include mobile banking, mobile money, payments and related offerings Extract business requirements from customers to deliverable solutions Guide delivery team in delivery of projects and solutions Analyze customer technology, define business requirements & participate in risk analysis Work with core team on list of potential activities & solutions Develop technical presentations & proposals, & perform customer presentations Support deployment of solution Provide feedback to R&D Participate in knowledge transfer, documentation & information sharing Stay abreast of on new technology/technical areas & share information about solution to enable customer competence build Position Qualifications Core Competences: Broad Technical Acumen Consultative Selling Ability Problem Solving Ability Creative Thinking Behavioral Competences: Creating & Innovating Entrepreneurial & Commercial thinking Persuading & Influencing Applying Expertise & technology Analyzing Delivering Results & Meeting Customer expectations Preferred Skills: Presentation & Communication skills Team work & collaboration skills Market insight Financial Understanding Minimum Qualifications & Experience Requirements: Experience from technical roles focusing on integration is a required experience for this role, e.g. experience from work as Integration engineer. University degree in Engineering, science or mathematics At least 3 to 5 years working experience Experience in mobile financial services (mobile money, mobile banking, online payments, m-commerce, digital and electronic payments systems) *LI-MA1 Ericsson provides equal employment opportunities (EEO) to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, parental status, national origin, ethnic background, age, disability, political opinion, social status, veteran status, union membership or genetics. Ericsson complies with applicable country, state and all local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment in every location across the world in which the company has facilities. In addition, Ericsson supports the UN Guiding Principles for Business and Human Rights and the United Nations Global Compact. This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, training and development. Ericsson expressly prohibits any form of workplace harassment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, parental status, national origin, ethnic background, age, disability, political opinion, social status, veteran status, union membership or genetic information. Click here to apply The United Nations human rights chief warned on Monday that thousands of people may have died of starvation during sieges affecting nearly half a million people in war-torn Syria. The comments by Zeid Raad al-Hussein came as the first major ceasefire in the five-year conflict entered its third day, and as the UN prepared to deploy trucks loaded with humanitarian aid into the country during the lull in fighting. The deliberate starvation of people is unequivocally forbidden as a weapon of warfare. By extension, so are sieges, said Hussein. He added: Thousands of people may have starved to death. Al Jazeeras Jamal Elshayyal, reporting from the Turkish border town of Gaziantep, noted that US Secretary of State John Kerry had accused the Syrian government of using food as a weapon of war. This war in recent months hasnt just been fought with weapons it has also been fought through the use of food, he said. The guns here havent gone totally silent, so its still dangerous for aid workers. The UN and its partner organisations were planning to start delivering aid to Syrians in several besieged areas previously cut off by the violence. A UN spokesman told Al Jazeera that trucks bound for Mouadamiya in the southern outskirts of Damascus were loaded and were planning to move shortly. Aid deliveries were also planned to arrive in the towns of Zabadani, Kefraya, Fouaa and Madaya by Wednesday. The deliveries are part of humanitarian aid planned for 1.7 million people in hard-to-reach areas in the first quarter of 2016, Yacoub El Hillo, UN Resident Coordinator in Damascus, said in a statement on Sunday. The UN estimates there are almost 500,000 people living under siege of a total of 4.6 million who are hard to reach with aid. Candidate of the All Progressives Congress in the 2015 governorship election in Rivers State, Dr. Dakuku Peterside, has laid the blame for the recent spike in violence in the state on the doorstep of the government of Governor Nyesom Wike, accusing it of arming militants and cult gangs, and a lack of commitment to peace and order in the state. There has been an upsurge of violent clashes between cult gangs, militant groups and armed robbery attacks in the state in recent weeks with the Nigerian Army stepping in to mop up dangerous arms and ammunition from suspected militants. Though Mr. Dakuku acknowledged that some of the clashes are as a result of the perennial mistrust of government and oil exploration companies by host communities, he however, stated that most of the recent clashes were politically induced and motivated; and blamed it on the ruling Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, in the state. In a statement on Sunday, the APC gubernatorial candidate in the state accused the Wike-led administration of arming the cult groups responsible for the violence in the run up to the 2015 election in its quest to violently grab power. He stated that the groups have now become Frankenstein monsters the government can no longer control. It is regrettable but true that in many communities in Rivers State today cult gangs hold sway. They control the social and economic souls of the people, including traditional structures which have been rendered impotent, he said. The cult gangs were armed by politicians in the build up to 2015 general elections. Like Frankenstein monsters, they are now too powerful to those who armed them and had enjoyed pyrrhic benefits from their activities. The situation has so degenerated that nobody, including those who created the monsters, feels safe anymore. The physical landscape of Rivers State communities is painted with boys armed to the teeth and walking about freely to the discomfort of citizens. Mr. Peterside accused the government of showing no commitment to restoring peace and order to the state. According to him, the government, instead of exploring tactful resolution to the insecurity problem, has adopted an unhelpful confrontational approach to solving the problem. We are yet to feel the effect of any concrete action taken by Nyesom Wike-led Rivers State Government to stem this worsening insecurity. A town hall meeting which he held in Omoku on the urging of Rt. Hon. Andrew Uchendu degenerated into a display of power by way of suspending three Local Government Caretaker Committee chairmen and a strange order to security agents to kill suspected cultists, Mr Dakuku said. The aloofness of the state government has actively promoted the view in the public space that it is behind the prevailing insecurity and free reign of criminals in the state. Nothing challenges a government more than to lose the moral right to fight criminality. When a government persistently fails in its primary duty of securing lives and property, and does not show that it is committed to fighting against those who threaten our peace, the despair of the citizenry can best be imagined. Today the people of Rivers state are groaning under the unbearable weight of kidnapping, assassinations, armed robbery, political violence, gun running, harassment, and all forms of criminality. The general question is how long are we going to live like this? The APC chieftain expressed fears that insecurity in the state may worsen as the March 19 national and state assemblies re-run elections draw close. The Privacy Shield agreement is intended to guarantee the personal information of European Union citizens the same privacy protection when processed in the United States as it would receive at home. Where these guarantees are not available, the information must stay in the EU. Privacy Shield replaces the earlier Safe Harbor agreement, which was torn up by the Court of Justice of the European Union last October because it did not provide adequate protection. Like its predecessor, Privacy Shield require U.S. businesses wishing to process EU citizens' personal information to self-certify that they will comply with a certain number of principles. Privacy Shield was little more than a name when the European Commission announced the agreement on Feb. 2, but on Monday it fleshed out details of its negotiations with U.S. authorities. Here are five things businesses need to know about the Privacy Shield principles 1. Signing up is voluntary; compliance is compulsory Signing up to Privacy Shield is voluntary but if a business does not sign up, it can not process EU citizens data in the U.S. Once a business has signed up, compliance with the principles is compulsory and can be enforced by the U.S. Federal Trade Commission. Participating companies must publish -- and respect -- their privacy policies. Those that don't keep their promises may be sanctioned or excluded from the Privacy Shield agreement. The U.S. Department of Commerce will publish a list of companies that have signed up, and another of those that have been excluded. 2. National security still trumps Privacy Shield Where the Privacy Shield principles conflict with U.S. national security or law enforcement needs, you can forget Privacy Shield. Article 5 of the agreement says: "Adherence to these Principles may be limited: (a) to the extent necessary to meet national security, public interest, or law enforcement requirements; (b) by statute, government regulation, or case law that creates conflicting obligations or explicit authorizations." 3. Mass surveillance is still allowed Even though its openness to mass surveillance of EU citizens' communications and online activities was one of the things that brought down Safe Harbor, such surveillance activities are still allowed under Privacy Shield. The EU's fact sheet claims that "U.S authorities affirm absence of indiscriminate or mass surveillance," but U.S. documents forming part of the agreement claim nothing of the sort. The U.S. still allows itself to perform bulk surveillance for six purposes: detecting and countering certain activities of foreign powers; counterterrorism; counter-proliferation; cybersecurity; detecting and countering threats to U.S. or allied armed forces, and combating transnational criminal threats, including sanctions evasion. 4. Businesses will have 45 days to reply... If an EU citizen complains about the treatment of their personal information under Privacy Shield, companies will have 45 days to reply their complaint. If the reply doesn't bring satisfaction, the complainant can have recourse to a number of other resolution mechanisms, including a free alternative dispute resolution service and their own national privacy regulator. 5. ... but it hasn't started yet The European Commission jumped the gun in announcing Privacy Shield on Feb. 2, as many of the written promises from the U.S. on which the agreement depends did not arrive for another three weeks. On Feb. 29 the Commission published those documents, along with a draft "adequacy decision," the legal instrument by which Privacy Shield's provisions will be declared equivalent to the protections offered by EU law. The draft adequacy decision is still open to challenge by the governments and data protection authorities of the EU's 28 member states, and must be reviewed annually to ensure that all parties are still respecting the undertakings on which it is founded. If they aren't, then in theory it can be suspended. Triple Digit Hog Rally Barchart - 1 hour ago Lean hogs extended their rally into the weekend with another $0.20 to $2.10 gains in the front months. December was up the most on Friday, but is still a $1.40 discount to Feb. Through the week, December... HEZ22 : 89.125s (+2.41%) HEJ23 : 93.850s (+0.78%) KMZ22 : 98.000s (+1.16%) Cotton Limits the Weeks Pullback with Friday Strength Barchart - 1 hour ago Cotton futures traded in a wide 413 point range from +253 to -160 (Dec). At the close the front months were 32 to 173 points in the black. December closed the week at a net 402 point loss, having spent... CTZ22 : 79.13s (+2.24%) CTH23 : 78.55s (+1.67%) CTK23 : 78.15s (+1.44%) Wheats Closed Mixed on Friday Barchart - 1 hour ago CBT SRW futures ended the last trade day of the week with 1 to 1 1/2 cent gains. For the December contract that meant a net 9 cent loss for the week. KC futures pulled back by 1/2 a cent to 2 cents on... ZWZ22 : 850-6s (+0.18%) ZWH23 : 869-4s (+0.17%) ZWPAES.CM : 7.8533 (+0.24%) KEZ22 : 948-2s (-0.16%) KEPAWS.CM : 9.0581 (-0.16%) MWZ22 : 961-4s (-0.10%) Nov Beans Held under $14 Barchart - 1 hour ago The Friday session ended with soybean futures 3 1/4 to 4 cents higher with November options having expired. Nov soybeans spent the week in a 41 1/2 cent trading range and ended 11 3/4 cents higher from... ZSX22 : 1395-4s (+0.29%) ZSPAUS.CM : 13.5026 (+0.29%) ZSF23 : 1404-4s (+0.32%) ZSH23 : 1411-6s (+0.28%) New Contract High for Dec Cattle Barchart - 1 hour ago Cattle added another 62 to 75 cents to the upside on Friday, with December printing a new life of contract high of $152.50. Dec gained a net $4.65 for the week. The weeks cash trade picked up on Thursday... LEV22 : 150.475s (+0.47%) LEZ22 : 152.425s (+0.49%) LEG23 : 155.525s (+0.44%) GFV22 : 175.275s (-0.17%) GFX22 : 178.350s (+0.45%) Fractionally Mixed Friday Close in Corn Barchart - 1 hour ago Corn futures firmed up on Friday for a fractionally UNCH close to the week. From Friday to Friday December futures traded in an 18 1/4 cent range, and went home 5 1/2 cents lower. The board has a 6 1/4... ZCZ22 : 684-2s (unch) ZCPAUS.CM : 6.7335 (-0.09%) ZCH23 : 690-4s (unch) ZCK23 : 689-6s (unch) Overfishing threatens ocean ecosystems, global commerce, and billions of people who rely on fish for food or income. Since the 1990s, sustainable fisheries have become a top philanthropic issue, especially among massive funders. Here, I look at the key players and what they fund. The numbers cited regarding the decline of global fisheries range from somewhat concerning to disastrous, with the most alarming assessments from Daniel Pauly of the Sea Around Us Project forecasting the end of fish, and describing the worlds fishing industry as a global Ponzi scheme. Paulys latest foreboding study reported that the decline in global catches has been rapid since its peak in the 1990s, even more unsustainable than previously estimated. Even optimistic analysts acknowledge that the worlds population is growing, meaning so too will demand for fish. Unsustainable fisheries endanger the livelihoods of entire coastal communities, our capacity to feed the worlds population, and a sizable chunk of the worlds economy. But theres cause for hope that with a massive effort combining technology, investment, policy, and enforcement, we can restore fish populations to avoid collapse and even improve performance. Theres evidence that better management restores depleted fisheries. Many believe theres even money to be made in the long run, as the World Bank estimates inefficiencies lead to $50 billion in losses annually. All of this has been attracting philanthropists since the 1990s, including market-focused conservationists, data-driven technocrats, and more traditional research-and-advocacy environmentalists. Part of the appeal that has drawn so many funders is the apparent solvability of this problem, of particular interest among metrics-obsessed billionaires who tend only to fund issues where their money can make a measurable impact. A 2012 study found that rebuilding the worlds fisheries would cost $203 billion, but in just 12 years, the benefits would outweigh the costs. That kind of stat is like catnip to people like Michael Bloomberg. This is a tremendously complex problem, with many points of entry for a variety of fundersecosystem health, economic growth, world hunger, impact on vulnerable communities. And there are just as many tactics to pursue, including: Traditional approaches like advocacy for regulation and community engagement Building demand for sustainable seafood with certification programs, media, and marketing Improving understanding and oversight with data analysis Supporting local fishing communities to become more sustainable Market-based schemes such as catch shares, which divvy up how much can be extracted And a rising star among billionaires, juicing markets with impact investing Most funders come at the problem with some combination of overlapping strategies, and new players enter the field every few months or so, with donors collectively sending tens of millions in funding to these solutions. Heres an overview of what the landscape looks like now: Bloombergs Three-Pronged, $53M Approach As mentioned above, restoring fisheries was an issue that Mike Bloomberg couldnt resist, with its combination of data-driven problem solving, human impact, and economic implications. So in 2014, Bloomberg Philanthropies unveiled its $53 million initiative to fight overfishing. The program focuses on Brazil, China, and the Philippines first, with the bang-for-the-buck nature of the issue particularly appealing to Bloomberg and his advisers. They cite 30 countries making up 90 percent of the industry, so intense focus could yield global impact. The initiative so far funds three angles and three organizations. First off, theres support for RARE to work with local fishers, funding the global, community-focused nonprofit to implement local reforms. Second, Bloomberg is backing Oceana to take on industrial fishing through national policies that set and enforce catch limits. Its less explicit coming from Bloomberg, but Oceana also advocates cutting industry subsidies that have flooded the market with too many ships relative to whats in the sea. The third approach is one of the more interesting strategies out there. The initiative has funded Encourage Capital (formerly EKO) to pursue impact investment plans to quickly make certain fisheries sustainable. Encourage and other financial managers have described fisheries investment as a potential J-Curve, a venture capital term that describes short-term losses up front that surge into gains in later years. In short, get enough rich guys to pay for improvements to how we fish, and they will eventually see a windfall. Related: Since When Does Mike Bloomberg Care About Fishing? Rockefellers Focus on Vulnerable Populations Rockefeller Foundation is totally on board with the Bloomberg impact investing approach, serving as a partner behind the Encourage Capital work. But Rockefeller is one of the more justice-focused large environmental funders out there, and its young fisheries program puts an emphasis on helping small-scale fishers benefit from sustainability. The funder only started making grants for fisheries in 2012 and officially launched its program in 2013, but has become a top player very quickly, dropping millions on a handful of nonprofits. Its priorities include working with vulnerable populations to advance sustainable techniques, and to advance community management of specific local fisheries. In other words, Rockefeller is interested in making sure better fisheries benefit and are driven by locals, instead of just the larger fishing industry and outside investors. Notable grants include $2.4 million in support for the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership in 2015 to transition crab fisheries in Indonesia and build a model for sustainable, small-scale fisheries. The funder also awarded $2.3 million at the launch of the initiative to Oceana for policy and subsidy reform. And Rockefeller has also supported academic research through a $559,000 grant to University of Rhode Island to better understand the root causes of fishery overexploitation. Related: Moores Effort to Untangle the Supply Chain and Improve Planning Impact investing is far from the only fisheries strategy that hinges on economic incentives, and Moore, Packard, and Walton, three of the largest funders in this space, are all deeply invested in market-based strategies. For starters, the Gordon & Betty Moore Foundation, from the wealth of the microchip pioneer, has an Oceans and Seafood Markets Initiative that seeks to reshape market demand and demonstrate economic value so that companies willingly pursue reform. A search of its grants database shows more than $11 million awarded in 2015 toward seafood markets. The biggest grantee in the program is the World Wildlife Fund, which has received more than $6 million since 2013. Most WWF support goes toward improving traceability in the seafood supply chain, thus improving our understanding of geographic seafood sources. The fishing industry is the Wild West in many ways, and Moore is one of the leading funders trying to use technology and industry collaboration to get a firmer grasp on how seafood gets from boat to dinner. The other big avenue through which Moore is funding fisheries work is its Marine Conservation Initiative, which funds comprehensive ocean planningsometimes called zoning for the ocean, of which fisheries are one componentand reforming fisheries management. The latter also involves economic incentives by setting limits and establishing catch shares that allocate portions of that limit to fishers within an area. Related: Waltons Combo of Catch Shares and Certification The Walton Family Foundation is one of the most economics-focused environmental funders, and also happens to be one of the biggest sources of green philanthropy overall. In 2014, WFF gave $39 million to marine conservation, and nearly $18 million of that funded ocean sustainability through economic incentives. That funding was nearly split between two approachescatch shares and seafood certification. Catch shares, mentioned above as a priority for Moore as well, are common market-based schemes to align seafood economics with sustainability. Think of it like a cap-and-trade program for fish, in which fishers own a stake of an allowable catch deemed healthy for the region. Walton is one of the biggest funders of the approach, and nearly 90 percent of the $9.4 million Walton spent on the strategy in 2014 went to catch shares biggest proponent, the Environmental Defense Fund. A note on catch shares. There are variations, and their effectiveness and fairness depend on the details. But some critics equate the practice to a privatization of oceans, and point out that catch shares consolidate the fishing industry through accumulation of shares, favoring large corporations over small fishers. The Center for Investigative Reporting did a detailed analysis of problems with catch shares, which you can read here. The other half of Waltons fisheries strategy is certification systems. This is another popular market-based approach, but works on the demand side, creating ways for consumers to shop for sustainable products, providing incentives for suppliers. One large WFF grantee is the Marine Stewardship Council, which has drawn criticism for being soft, but is one of the best-known certification programs. Packard Shifts from Demand to Supply The David & Lucile Packard Foundation is another major oceans funder and one of the earlier big supporters of fisheries work, with a program dating back to 1998. Packards strategy seeks to have one-third of the volume of wild caught seafood from sustainable sources or through rebuilding fisheries by 2022, and it also focuses on market-based approaches. The foundation divided work on the issue into two main phases. The first, running from 1998 to 2011, emphasized increasing demand by supporting certification systems and building a movement for sustainable seafood. Now in the second phase, Packard is funding work that translates that demand into management changes in fisheries and aquaculture projects. The foundation gives to some of the common large environmental groups, with $2.2 million going to the World Wildlife Fund for fisheries work. Some of Packards funding goes toward the foundations interest in the American West Coast, with Resources Legacy Fund receiving $2.1 million, 80 percent of which supports work on California fisheries. Related: Packard Keeps Diving Deeper on Fisheries Emerging Players Those are the movers and shakers, but this is a field thats regularly drawing new supporters, including some tech billionaires and companies with huge financial backing behind them. First, theres Google (now Alphabet). The tech giant has begun using its all-seeing eyes for conservation purposes, and in 2014 started a collaborative program with Oceana and SkyTruth to analyze ship positioning data to crack down on rampant illegal fishing. Alphabet Executive Chairman Eric Schmidt and his wife Wendy are also involved in ocean conservation, and in 2015 committed $10 million to Monterey Bay Aquariums Seafood Watch program, which provides information resources on sustainable seafood. Microsoft co-founder Paul Allens marine giving has been taking off in recent years, as well, and in 2014, the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation made a $2.6 million grant to Daniel Paulys Sea Around Us project. Allens Vulcan Inc. is also behind Smart Catch, a certification program for restaurants that started in Seattle. And one of the latest billionaires to get into fisheries is Hansjorg Wyss, who is primarily known for land conservation. In 2015, he committed $10 million to Oceanas fisheries work. With philanthropy overall increasing and marine giving in general on the rise, we expect this is an area of giving that will only continue to grow. And it seems to be particularly attractive to mega-wealthy donors and West Coast tech moguls, meaning well likely see both established philanthropies and upstart donors continue to cut big checks to fisheries restoration in the future. Related: By Tatiana Kolyuchkina Self-storage is a young yet fast-developing industry in Russia. While the countrys overall economic situation remains unstable, self-storage has been able to grow as businesses close or downsize, and individuals buy household appliances and other goods before prices go up. Consumer demand has made it possible for the industry to expand despite the rise in taxes, the drop in investment activity and the increased cost to build facilities. New storage operators entered the market this year, and many existing ones opened new facilities. Last spring, the product became available in Siberia for the first time, with the opening of properties in Tyumen and Novosibirsk. The latter is the administrative center of the Siberian Federal District, one of Russias nine federal districts, and the countrys third most populated city. Self-storage exists in five cities: Moscow, population 12 million St. Petersburg, population 5 million Novosibirsk, population 1.5 million Kazan, population of 1.2 million Tyumen, population 697,000 Most of the sites are still centered in and around Moscow. There are seven big players and about 10 small companies with three or fewer facilities. Obstacles to Growth The main restriction to development is the lack of suitable buildings in Moscow. Many developers, my own company included, have chosen to convert existing warehouse space to self-storage. Another hindrance is the murky and unclear Russian laws. Due to a hangover from Soviet days, real estate (the warehouse sector in particular) is loosely governed, and legislation remains vague and uncertain. Basic tasks such as establishing title ownership, getting permission to build, and receiving electricity and water is a tremendously fraught and time-consuming process. The lack of clearly established fire-safety standards for self-storage is just one example. All of these factors have stifled industry growth. Moving Forward Although the Russian Self Storage Association was established in 2013, its agenda doesnt include the legal support of local self-storage businesses. It also cant speak for the industry on the federal level due to the relative insignificance of this young industry. As a result, many operators dont recognize the value of such an organization and speculate that it might be too early for a national association. The Russian self-storage industry faces many challenges. Still, growth is on the horizon as industry developers, investors and owners recognize the need for self-storage in this country. Tatiana Kolyuchkina is chief specialist of commercial department at Samosklad Self-Storage in Russia. The company opened its first facility in 2011 and currently operates three facilities in Moscow. Samosklad plans to open 20 to 25 facilities by 2018. For more information, e-mail [email protected]; visit www.samosklad.ru. Self-storage developer Rosemurgy Properties has acquired a 3.2-acre site in Deerfield Beach, Fla., for $6 million on which it intends to build a storage facility. The property at 545 S. Federal Highway was purchased by subsidiary Sentry Deerfield Beach from a family trust. The facility will comprise 93,163 square feet and is expected to open in the fall. It will be managed by Sentry Self Storage, according to the source. We are excited to partner with Sentry Self-Storage to bring a best-in-class development to Deerfield Beach, Alex Rosemurgy, CEO of Rosemurgy Properties, told the source. The two companies previously collaborated on a $1 million joint venture in Miami. The Deerfield Beach facility will replace an industrial building that currently stands on the site. The property last sold for $4.7 million in 2013, according to the source. Sentry Self Storage Management was founded in 1997. The company manages 23 facilities in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina and Texas. Sentry also owns two facilities in Florida. The companys portfolio of owned and managed facilities comprises more than 1.8 million square feet. Founded in 1977 and headquartered in Deerfield Beach, Rosemurgy Properties is a privately owned commercial real estate development, investment and management firm. Its portfolio includes land, multi-family, office, retail and self-storage properties. Phoenix-based U-Haul International Inc. wants to purchase the former Moncton High School in Moncton, New Brunswick, Canada, and convert the interior to self-storage. Members of the community and government view the building as a historical landmark, and some are opposed to the project. U-Hauls plan is contingent on its ability to buy the property, and the company is committed to maintaining the buildings heritage and facade, according to Jeff Lockridge, manager of media and public relations. I can confirm U-Haul has been scouting the old high school site since late 2015 as a potential acquisition for a U-Haul moving and storage facility, Lockridge told the source. An offer has been made, and were in the process of seeking approval from the province first, after which we would seek approval from the city. Chris Collins, a representative from Moncton Centre who is speaker of the New Brunswick legislative assembly, opposes the self-storage deal, the source reported. A local community group called MH Renaissance has proposed turning the high school into a cultural center. The $21 million plan would include turning the school auditorium into a theater and renting space to businesses. Locally based Atlantic Ballet Theatre of Canada has reportedly expressed interest in the theater space. The MH Renaissance project would require government assistance to complete. We are asking them now instead of tearing down the building [to] take that money and fund our project, group member Joe Tippet told the source. Dawn Arnold, a member of the Moncton City Council, acknowledged the communitys emotional attachment to the high school but also indicated self-storage could be a viable use for the building, noting its the No. 1 growing business in North America. I think everybody would love to have a community center, she told the source, but we are living in very difficult financial times. Established in 1945, U-Haul has more than 44 million square feet of storage space at more than 1,200 owned facilities throughout North America. Go anywhere. Do anything. That is the new theme being pushed to gen Y and gen Zers in order to put a career in insurance on their radar and stem the growing talent shortage.The Careers in Insurance initiative was launched this week by the Australian and New Zealand Institute of Insurance and Finance ( ANZIIF ) and aims to highlight the huge potential available to young people by choosing insurance as a career.Meg Brideson, general manager marketing & insights at ANZIIF, said the initiative developed following extensive research in 2014 on the attraction and retention of under-35s in the industry.In the survey, 77.1% of insurance professionals under-35 said that the industry was either invisible or had minimal visibility as a career option prior to joining and ANZIIF says Careers in Insurance is designed to address that head on.In 2014, our research showed that 94% of insurance businesses struggled to find talent, Brideson said.Attracting and retaining quality talent is the key to our industrys success and it is crucial to ensuring that we have the workforce we need in the years to come.Bringing young people into the industry is also integral to establishing the diverse workplaces insurance needs to address the challenges and harness the opportunities of the future.Brideson said it was crucial that the industry worked together on the issue.No business can single-handedly achieve what this initiative sets out to to transform us from being an industry that people fall into to one that people seek out.This is an objective that requires us to work together, and it is a true privilege that as an industry we are getting out into the community to do just that.The initiative starts with a website launch, which is designed to appeal to a younger audience, and offers support to young people to explore the diverse career paths the industry has to offer.It also offers a CV repository and job board to link students and job seekers with potential employers.Then next month, Careers in Insurance will move into universities and schools through careers expos, providing an opportunity for students to meet insurance professionals from all sectors of the industry.The initiative will also undertake coordinated communications activities spanning social media, advertising, and media relations as well as school, university and TAFE (technical and further education) channels.The industry is invited to promote Careers in Insurance by linking to the website The Australian insurance industry is as competitive as it has ever been and the general manager of one of the countrys most successful underwriters has called on businesses to back innovation to succeed. Leo Abbruzzo , general manager of DUAL Australia , told Insurance Business that innovation is a driving force for their multi-award winning business and others in the industry should follow suit in a bid to be successful.Look for opportunities to do things differently, Abbruzzo said, at DUAL we have prided ourselves on taking complex products traditionally created for the corporate market, and adapting them to the SME market.As a leader in the cyber insurance space, Abbruzzo warned that brokers need to be watchful of their offering and access the educational materials the industry has to offer.A year ago, the education behind cyber was very scarce but there are a number of products out on the market now and the industry is becoming more aware of the key exposures, Abbruzzo said.Brokers have got to be careful what they offer, I believe cyber could be what management liability is now.Management liability was the unknown and now management liability has a number of areas that have claims and I think cyber will be the same and it will come a lot quicker and brokers could get caught out unless they tell their clients it is available.The key is that they protect their own E&O.We had a webinar last week where 180 plus brokers dialled in to listen and learn about cyber. It is something that we are consistently educating brokers out there about.Increasingly brokers are asking for more information about cyber. It is the unknown and I know the industry itself is working together to educate clients about.DUAL Australia, which won three gold medals and a bronze in the Insurance Business Brokers on Underwriters survey , will continue to build on its success as Abbruzzo discussed the importance of brokers and their relationship with the business.The market in which we operate has and will continue to be very competitive so it is very important, Abbruzzo said on the importance of relationships with brokers.Having engaged relationships with our brokers allows us to understand what they want, and deliver the right solutions for them and their clients. One of the most important things is that we listen to what the broker says to us rather than telling them what they want to know, and that is a real key.Abbruzzo noted that the business will look to continue its success with the broker channel by opening up new markets and simplifying distribution.We focus on creating markets, which means new revenue and opportunities for our brokers, instead of taking market share which is what the market has been known for, Abbruzzo continued.We will continue to look to simplify the delivery for our brokers to make it more efficient for them to deal with DUAL.With education still a hot topic in the industry, Abbruzzo said more could be done to educate around claims for the benefit of underwriters, brokers and clients.I think where the industry needs to do more is provide education on how to handle claims, specifically on when a claim should be notified, Abbruzzo said.We continue to see claims where the insured has run up large costs without utilising the expertise of our claims staff and specialist lawyers and consultants that we use.I believe this is a common problem the market and not just DUAL.When this happens, that is when we see problems arise between DUAL, the broker and the insured, so we are all back-tracking. Vermont Department of Financial Regulation Commissioner Susan L. Donegan announced on Feb. 26 that Continental Indemnity Co., a subsidiary of Applied Underwriters Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway Company, has paid Vermont $335,000 and owes 16 Vermont businesses an additional $352,000. The Department of Financial Regulation said its investigation has revealed that between 2007 and 2015, Continental had overcharged a number of small businesses for workers compensation insurance policy premiums. Those Vermont companies are entitled to refunds ranging from just over $900 to almost $56,000. An administrative penalty of $300,000 was paid to the Department of Financial Regulation and an additional $35,000 was assessed to reimburse the department for costs incurred during the examination. The department said Continental has acknowledged the errors and has agreed to conduct an internal audit to ensure future compliance with Vermont laws. Donegan said she appreciated the cooperation the department received from Continental during the investigation and is pleased with the corrective measures the company has taken to adhere to Vermont insurance regulations. Continental has made commendable efforts to address the issues and correct its erroneous practices, Donegan said, I applaud the companys determination to prevent it from happening in the future. Good compliance is an essential consumer protection. Continental Indemnity Co. is headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. Topics Legislation Workers' Compensation Vermont Lawmakers in Rhode Island are making another attempt to grant driving privileges to immigrants who are in the country illegally. Similar legislation stalled last year but state Sen. Frank Ciccone, a Providence Democrat, said he hopes to build on the success of a law that took effect in neighboring Connecticut. He and Democratic state Rep. Anastasia Williams, also of Providence, recently introduced companion bills in the Senate and House that adopt language from the Connecticut law but include a few more safeguards, Ciccone said. Immigrants who apply for the special licenses would have to have lived in Rhode Island for at least two years. The licenses would also be color-coded in a way that distinguishes them from regular drivers licenses and prevents them from being used as a form of identification. Ciccone, Williams and co-sponsoring lawmakers were joined on Feb. 24 at a State House rally by dozens of immigrants and advocates. Gaspar Espinoza of the Providence-based Olneyville Neighborhood Association said the licenses would help those in the country illegally get to their jobs and improve road safety by getting them registered and insured. Immigrants who dont have lawful U.S. residency can now drive in about a dozen states. A handful of opponents also mingled in the rally on Feb. 24, silently carrying signs that said, No drivers licenses for illegal aliens. Terry Gorman of the Central Falls-based Rhode Islanders for Immigration Law Enforcement said the licenses will be a magnet drawing more illegal immigration. Democratic Gov. Gina Raimondo has voiced support for allowing everyone to get drivers licenses regardless of immigration status. But after initially supporting the idea of signing an executive order allowing the licenses, she has since said that the General Assembly should take it up first. In a statement, Raimondo said she plans to look into the bills. The good news is that because many other states and cities have already done this successfully, there are models we can look at to get something passed, she said. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Legislation Personal Auto Hamilton Re, the reinsurance operations of Hamilton Insurance Group, announced that Gavin Davis has joined the Bermuda-based company as senior vice president, head of Property Insurance, Bermuda. Davis will be instrumental in leading the ongoing diversification of Hamilton Res portfolio to include property direct and facultative insurance, the company said. He reports to Tim Duffin, chief underwriting officer, Property, at Hamilton Re. Were delighted to welcome Gavin to our team in Bermuda, said Hamilton Re CEO Kathleen Reardon. His arrival is timely, as our recent marketing initiatives have confirmed that theres interest among our business partners in the lines of business that Gavin will add to our portfolio. His expertise, and the high regard with which hes held by our clients, will facilitate our acceptance as a preferred property D&F underwriter. Davis joins Hamilton Re with over 20 years combined experience (15 years in re/insurance and five years in the capital markets and private equity industry) in both New York and Bermuda. From November 2012 until August 2015, Davis was vice president and underwriter for Montpelier Reinsurance Ltd., where he most recently was head of the direct & facultative platform. Before joining Montpelier Re, he managed the U.S. direct insurance property portfolio at AXIS Specialty Ltd. for three years. From 2005 until 2009, Davis was a senior property & energy broker with Guy Carpenter in Bermuda. He also held positions as a senior financial adviser and equity arbitrage trader with two Bermuda companies from 2001 to 2005 and obtained his NASD Securities License during that time. Davis began his career with General Reinsurance Corp., based in its Manhattan offices from 1995 until 1998 before relocating to Bermuda in 1999. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Government from Colby College, Waterville, Maine. Source: Hamilton Re Topics Reinsurance Property XL Group plc announced a proposal to change its parent holding companys place of incorporation to Bermuda from Ireland. Establishing our corporate home in Bermuda is a natural step for XL. XL has had a presence in Bermuda since 1986, which grew significantly following the transformative transaction with Bermuda-based Catlin last year, said XLs Chief Executive Officer, Michael S. McGavick, in a statement. A significant portion of XLs business, in fact our largest operating subsidiary, has for decades been located in Bermuda and regulated by the Bermuda Monetary Authority, he said. Further, the BMAs regulatory regime and its expertise as an international financial regulator has recently been acknowledged and endorsed with it being determined fully equivalent to Solvency II by the European Unions Commission, Parliament and Council, McGavick continued. Following the Catlin transaction, and with the recent determination of full Solvency II equivalence for Bermuda, it has been concluded that the BMA is best situated to serve as XLs group-wide supervisor and to approve XLs internal capital model. This is a change that we believe will benefit XLs clients, partners, and shareholders alike. XL does not expect the redomestication will have any material impact on its financial results, including the companys global effective tax rate. To effect the redomestication, XL Group Ltd. would replace XL Group plc as the ultimate holding company of the XL group of companies, and the companys ordinary shareholders would receive one common share of the new Bermuda company in exchange for each ordinary share of the company held by them. XL expects to submit the proposal for redomestication, along with related proposals, to its shareholders in the next several months and complete the transaction in the third quarter of 2016. The proposed redomestication will be subject to receipt of necessary regulatory approvals, approval by the companys ordinary shareholders, satisfaction of other conditions and sanctioning by the High Court of Ireland. XL will continue to be registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and be subject to SEC reporting requirements applicable to domestic registrants. Further, the company will continue to be subject to the applicable corporate governance rules of the New York Stock Exchange and will continue to report its financial results in U.S. dollars and under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. The companys shares will continue to trade on the NYSE under the ticker symbol XL and it expects that XL will remain included in the S&P 500. Source: XL Group Topics USA AXA XL British finance minister George Osborne pushed financial leaders from the top 20 economies to include the risk of Britain leaving the European Union in their list of dangers to the world economy on Saturday, gaining explicit support from the United States. Britons will vote in a referendum in June 23 on whether to remain part of the 28-nation EU. British Prime Minister David Cameron negotiated a special status for Britain in the bloc last week to help convince eurosceptics that continued membership was more beneficial than leaving. The risk of Britain exiting the EU, dubbed Brexit, was not in the original draft of the communique of finance ministers and central bankers of the top 20 economies, but was added on the insistence of Britain, G20 officials said. In a significant boost for Cameron and Osborne, U.S. Treasury Secretary Jack Lew expressed clear support for Britains continued membership of the EU. Our view is that its in the national security and economic security of the United Kingdom, of Europe and of the United States for the United Kingdom to stay in the European Union, Lew told a news conference. Lews references to economic and national security marked a strengthening in his rhetoric, having previously described Britains EU membership as being in the global interest. This is an issue that will be decided by the voters of the United Kingdom in June and we certainly hope that (they) reach that conclusion, Lew said. The final G20 communique, seen by Reuters, lists a shock of a potential UK exit from the European Union as one of the risks to the global economy, alongside volatile markets, cheap commodities and the migration crisis. It was the British who called for it, but it didnt meet with opposition, one G20 official said. Everyone around the table would rather avoid a shock of that sort at such a fragile time for the global economy. Osborne said finance ministers and central bank governors were unanimous in their belief that a British departure from the European Union could cause a global economic shock. Christine Lagarde, managing director of the International Monetary Fund, confirmed that delegates discussed a British departure from the EU as a downside risk for the global economy in their meeting. Thats the reason why it found its way (into the communique) as soon as the meetings effectively started, she said. Some G20 officials saw the inclusion of the line on Britain in the communique as a way to draw attention to the negative consequences of exiting the EU to support Camerons campaign to stay in. Italian Finance Minister Pier Carlo Padoan said a decision by Britain to leave the EU, which it joined in 1973, would have negative global consequences. We would classify a UK exit from the EU as a powerful geopolitical shock, a negative shock, he told reporters in Shanghai. The City of London is a major global financial center, accounting for roughly 10 percent of Britains gross domestic product (GDP) and some bankers think leaving the EU could disrupt business and force many financial institutions to move out. Opinion polls in Britain differ over the likely outcome of the June 23 referendum. Uncertainty about Britains future in Europe sent its currency to a seven-year low against the U.S. dollar earlier this week. (Additional reporting by Andy Bruce in London; editing by Helen Popper and David Evans) Related: Topics USA Europe Chubb has appointed for the Asia Pacific region Christine Aldrich as its marine cargo underwriting manager and Callum Clark as marine hull underwriting manager. Both Aldrich and Clark will report to Anthony OBrien, regional head of marine for Asia Pacific. Aldrich was previously marine underwriting manager for Australia and New Zealand at ACE. Since joining ACE in 2003, Aldrich has developed product capacity and risk management solutions for international mining accounts, project cargo and delay in start-up coverage for infrastructure risks and bespoke e-commerce solutions for exporters for trade finance requirements. Clark was previously marine hull manager for the Asia Pacific zone at Chubb. Clark started his marine hull career with a London broker, which included the management of business within the Asia region. In 2010, Clark relocated to Singapore to establish a marine hull capability for Chubb within the Asia Pacific zone, offering a range of covers for vessel owners, managers and charterers across the region. On these new appointments, OBrien said, Both Christine and Callum bring a high level of craftsmanship to the marine insurance business, which will enhance our ability to develop leading product, risk management, e-commerce solutions and portfolio leadership. I am confident that for intermediaries seeking a reliable business partner for their clients, Chubb is poised to be their first port of call throughout our vast geographical network. Source: Chubb Topics Chubb Vertafore, the Bothell, Wash.-based insurance software provider, announced the acquisition of Keal Technology, a leading provider of broker and commercial management systems in Canada. The move extends Vertafores customer base into Canada, further enhancing its international footprint, the company said in a statement. Keals products were built specifically for the Canadian marketplace. As part of this acquisition, Keal will join Vertafore, but importantly, maintain its own brand and identity which have strong reputations and recognition in the Canadian market already, said Jeff Hawn, chairman and CEO at Vertafore. Together, we will bolster Keals growth efforts while helping them accelerate their market presence. More than 500,000 insurance professionals use Vertafores suite of agency management systems every day, said the company. These products include the AMS360 management system, Vertafore Agency PlatformTM, Sagitta management system, and QQCatalyst agency management system. Our clients will now have the backing of the largest financial player in the industry, said Pat Durepos, president at the Toronto-based Keal Technology. The insurance industry is undergoing tremendous change. In times of uncertainty, working with the market leader brings stability to Keal and our over 16,000 broker users. Durepos invested in Keal in 1995 after previously running a successful brokerage with his wife. He will work directly with Greg Wright, senior vice president of Agency and Carrier Solutions at Vertafore. Durepos will focus on specialized product development, driving growth in the Keal portfolio, and advocating for customers in the Canadian market, the statement issued by Vertafore said. The acquisition of Keal Technology is expected to close by the end of March 2016. With more than 45 years of industry experience, Vertafore is backed by TPG Capital a leading global private investment firm with more than $70 billion of capital under management. The acquisition of Keal Technology comes less than a year after Vertafore acquired QQSolutions, a Florida-based provider of cloud software to independent insurance agencies. During 2015, Vertafore had more than 250 product releases. Source: Vertafore Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Agencies Tech Canada Michigans insurance and financial services regulators say the number of consumer complaints is on the rise and that more than 7,400 consumers were assisted during January alone. The Department of Insurance and Financial Services reported that in January of this year, DIFS Office of Consumer Services assisted 7,439 consumers across the state and helped recover $588,412, including $9,235 for a homeowners insurance claim appraisal dispute. DIFS encourages consumers to first attempt to resolve disputes directly with their financial service entity. If a resolution cannot be reached, the department can help try to resolve disputes. Consumer complaints continued to rise over the past three months. Last month 285 new complaints were opened and 291 complaints were closed. Some complaints can lead to larger consumer protection actions. Once complaint resulted in the summary suspension of the insurance licenses of Richard Creed and Evergreen Insurance Agency for issuing fraudulent insurance certificates and not remitting premiums to the insurers. Source: Michigan DIFS Topics Trends Michigan Donald Trump said Friday he will weaken First Amendment protections for reporters as president, making it easier for him to sue them. The celebrity businessman turned Republican presidential front-runner said he wants to open up libel laws at a rally in Fort Worth, Texas. The changes envisioned by Trump would mean that when they write purposely negative and horrible and false articles, we can sue them and win lots of money, he said. Trump added that, should he be elected, news organizations that have criticized him will have problems. He specifically mentioned The New York Times and The Washington Post. Trump last month threatened to sue the Post after the newspaper wrote an article about the bankruptcy of his Atlantic City casino. On Twitter, Trump has routinely criticized reporters who cover him and their news organizations, including The Associated Press. First Amendment advocates condemned Trumps suggestions. His statement shows why we need libel protections, said Gregg Leslie, the legal defense director for the Washington-based Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press. Trump gets offended, he gets upset and he wants to sue to retaliate. Thats not a good reason to sue someone. Libel law in the United States generally makes it difficult for public figures to sue reporters or other people who criticize them. To win such a case, the plaintiff must demonstrate that factually incorrect statements were made with actual malice or a reckless disregard for the truth. Trump said he would like to lower that standard. Were going to have people sue you like you never got sued before, he said. Because the Supreme Court has repeatedly endorsed this legal standard, Trump could not change libel laws as they affect public figures by executive order or even with an act of Congress, Leslie said. Ive never heard of politicians say they would repeal case law established under the First Amendment, he said. Youd really need a constitutional amendment to do that. Trumps comments on libel law are not the first time he has disagreed with widely held conceptions of constitutional law. Last year, he said he saw no obstacle to deporting children born to undocumented immigrants in the United States. Courts have regularly found that such children are natural born citizens entitled to the same rights as any other American. Trump has said he does not believe a constitutional amendment would be necessary to get his way. You dont have to do a constitutional amendment. You need an act of Congress. Im telling you you need an act of Congress, he said in an interview with Bill OReilly of Fox News last year. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Lawsuits Breckenridge Insurance Group has formed Vista Insurance Advisors, a new company for the transactional and mergers & acquisitions market offering various coverage options. Vista Insurance Advisors is led by Chief Executive Officer Thomas Dowd based in New York. Dowd has more than 35 years of experience in all classes of transactional and management liability coverage including reps and warranties products. Dowd has worked for and with AIG, Lloyds, Crum & Forster, Employers Insurance of Wausau and Seneca Insurance. The high stakes and complexity of todays M&A market makes transactional insurance a paramount consideration for helping buyers and sellers strengthen valuation and increase the certainty of closing a deal, said Tracey Carragher, CEO of Breckenridge Insurance Group. Vista Insurance Advisors works directly with the law firms, investment banks and accounting firms that facilitate these deals to identify insurance needsthen partners with top-rated insurers to build customized coverages that meet each situations unique requirements. Dowd leads a team of transactional insurance specialists, each with at least 30 years of experience. In addition to insurance consulting and supplemental due diligence services, Vista Insurance Advisors offers the following types of coverage through its network of insurers: Representations & warranties Adverse tax liability Securities Acts liability (and similar public or private offering liability) Litigation buyout Cyber liability related to M&A and other special transactions Contingent liability/performance warranty Directors & officers liability related to M&A and other special transactions Vista Insurance Advisors has offices in Atlanta, New York, Dallas, Chicago, Richmond, Va., and Washington, D.C. Vista is a part of the InSpecialty division of Breckenridge Insurance Group. Breckenridge Insurance Group, headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., is an international specialty wholesale insurance broker, program manager, managing general agent (MGA) and insurance services provider. The company offers access to a range of commercial insurance and financial services products to businesses and professional services firms in a variety of industries. The company serves independent insurance agents, brokers and legal and financial institutions throughout North America by way of Blue River Underwriters, OSC, Breckenridge Insurance Services, Breckenridge Elevation Authorities contract binding group and InSpecialty. Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. agreed to buy MetLife Inc.s adviser-force business and affiliated broker-dealer for about $300 million. Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Co. has agreed to buy MetLife Inc.s adviser-force business and affiliated broker-dealer. According to documents filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission, the price is $300 million. The retail distribution operation has about 40 local sales and advisory operations and approximately 4,000 advisors across the country. MassMutual said the deal significantly increases its existing career agency system of 5,600 financial professionals. It also broadens the companys geographic reach. As part of the transaction, MassMutual and MetLife have also agreed to enter into a product development agreement under which MetLifes U.S. retail business will be the exclusive developer of certain annuity products to be issued by MassMutual. The division being sold caters to middle- to upper-income consumers, including small-to-medium sized business owners. The companies said last week that they were in talks for a possible transaction. MetLife has said it would explore the possible sale as part of a plan to downsize and lift a too-big-to-fail designation by the Financial Stability Oversight Council, a designation the insurer has gone to court to overturn. Some insurers are also concerned about the effects of proposal rules on retirement product sales. In addition to MetLifes retail advisor firms, the transaction will encompass certain MetLife employees who support the MetLife Premier Client Group; MetLifes affiliated broker-dealer, MetLife Securities, Inc.; and certain assets associated with the MetLife Premier Client Group, including employee contracts. On a combined basis, MSI and MassMutuals existing broker-dealer, MML Investors Services, LLC, will be among the nations largest insurance company-owned broker-dealers. Additionally, as part of the agreement, approved MassMutual financial professionals will provide individual life insurance and annuity products through the MetLife PlanSmart Financial Education Series. Source: MassMutual Related: Topics Mergers & Acquisitions Agencies Thousands of property owners in Horry County are being told they will be required to buy flood insurance. Local media outlets report that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has updated flood plain maps and now an additional 18,000 properties in the county are in flood zones. Homeowners with mortgages will be required to buy flood insurance although people who own their homes outright have the option to decline coverage. Most of the properties added to flood zones are in the Conway and Bucksport areas. Previously, there were about 65,000 properties in flood zones in the county. County and FEMA officials are holding public meetings this week to discuss the new maps. Copyright 2022 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Topics Flood South Carolina Starbucks Corp. (SBUX) has grown into one of the world's biggest coffeehouse chains by selling an ever-growing selection of products. It's a retailer, roaster, and provider of its own brand of specialty coffee. It also sells hot and cold beverage products, baked goods and other food items, as well as coffee-related merchandise like mugs, scoops, and presses. The first Starbucks opened in 1971 at Seattles historic Pike Place Market and went public two decades later in 1992. From its beginning as a single storefront serving fresh-roasted whole bean coffees, the company now has 32,000 stores in scores of countries. Starbucks earned net income of $3.4 billion on annual revenue of $26.7 billion in the most recent 12-month trailing period. It has a total market capitalization of $88.7 billion. Below, we'll look at the top five shareholders in Starbucks based on the number of shares owned. As of this writing, four of these shareholders are investment management companies and one is Starbucks' former Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Howard Schultz. The four management companies reported their stakes for the period ending March 31. We estimated the value of Schultz's reported stake based on the price of the stock at the close of trading on March 31, which was $65.37. Vanguard Inc. Vanguard is one of the world's largest investment management companies with about 425 low-cost traditional funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs). The firm has about $6.2 trillion in global assets under management (AUM). Vanguard's funds hold approximately 90.5 million shares of Starbucks, comprising about 7.7% of the total number of shares outstanding with a market value of nearly $6.0 billion. The Vanguard Total Stock Market ETF (VTI) is one of the company's largest ETFs with about $138.7 billion in AUM. As much as 0.30% of VTI's holdings are allocated to shares of Starbucks. BlackRock Inc. BlackRock is one of the world's leading asset and investment management firms with approximately $6.47 trillion in AUM. The firm offers a wide range of mutual funds, iShares ETFs and closed-end funds. BlackRock's funds hold approximately 84.3 million shares of Starbucks, comprising about 7.2% of the total number of shares outstanding with a market value of $5.5 billion. The iShares Core S&P 500 ETF (IVV) is one of BlackRock's largest ETFs with about $185.8 billion in AUM. As much as 0.35% of IVV's holdings are shares of Starbucks. State Street Corp. State Street is a leading asset and investment management company with approximately $3.1 trillion in AUM. The firm provides a range of financial products and services to institutional investors around the world. State Street's funds hold approximately 51.4 million shares of Starbucks, comprising about 4.4% of total shares outstanding with a market value of $3.4 billion. The SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust (SPY) is one of State Street's largest ETFs with about $270.3 billion in AUM. As much as 0.34% of SPY's holdings are allocated to shares of Starbucks. Magellan Asset Management Ltd. Magellan Asset Management is an Australia-based asset and investment management company offering a range of financial products and services including, asset management, equities, ETFs, investment strategies, financial planning, and more. Magellan's funds hold approximately 31.5 million shares of Starbucks, comprising about 2.7% of the total number of shares outstanding with a market value of $2.1 billion. One of Magellan's biggest funds, at $11.9 billion in assets, is the Magellan Global Fund. Shares of Starbucks are among the fund's top ten holdings. Howard Schultz Howard Schultz is an American billionaire and one of Starbucks' biggest shareholders. He remains chair emeritus of Starbucks after stepping down in 2018 from his roles as executive chair and board member of the company. But his relationship to the company goes all the way back to the early 1980s when he first met Starbucks owners Gerald Baldwin and Gordon Bowker. Impressed by their passion for coffee, Schultz persuaded Baldwin to hire him on as the company's director of retail operations and marketing. In 1983, Schultz made a trip to Italy and became inspired by the popularity of espresso bars in Milan. When he returned, he convinced Starbucks' owners to create a similar coffeehouse culture in Seattle. Several years later, Schultz would begin his first stint as CEO, expanding the company from 17 stores in 1987 to more than 3,500 stores in 2000. He then stepped down and became chair. But when the company began to founder, he resumed the role of CEO in 2008 and continued in that position until 2017. Schultz owns about 33.0 million shares of Starbucks directly and 1.7 million indirectly through trusts, which comprise about 2.9% of the company's total shares outstanding. The value of his shares is estimated at nearly $2.3 billion as of March 31, the period for which other large shareholders reported. Hedge funds are pooled investments that use a variety of investment strategies to generate big profits for their investors. A hedge fund manager dictates what to buy and sell, and assets held in the fund can include stocks, bonds, derivatives, commodities, currencies, or all of the above. A fund might be long or short only, or use a combination of long and short strategies. Hedge funds typically charge higher fees than traditional mutual funds or exchange traded funds, and the justification for the higher fees is that hedge funds can sometimes deliver investors robust returns, even in down markets. Managers of the largest funds can earn millions of dollars per year and, in some cases, even billions. More than 15,000 hedge funds operate worldwide with roughly $3 trillion in combined assets under management (AUM), according to ADV Ratings. North America is home to 70% of the world's funds, with half in New York, California, and Texas. Here are the five biggest hedge funds in 2020 as per ADV Ratings. Key Takeaways Hedge funds use a variety of long and short strategies across a number of different financial markets. These funds charge higher fees than mutual funds and ETFs because of the potential for higher returns. Managers are paid a percentage of the fund's profits with compensation reaching millionsor even billionsper year. Bridgewater Associates, Renaissance Technologies, and AQR are among the biggest hedge funds in the U.S. Bridgewater Associates Bridgewater, the Connecticut-based fund of Ray Dalio, remains the largest fund in the world in terms of assets. Founded in 1975, it now has $160 billion in assets under management for the entire company as of February 2020. Some of Bridgewater's clients include institutional investors, charitable foundations, university endowments, and pension funds. The company employs roughly 1,700 people. Dalio proves that the largest funds can still be highly profitable. According to Forbes, his net worth is estimated to be $18.7 billion as of March 2020. So it should come as no surprise that the hedge fund manager raked in over $1 billion in compensation in 2018. Renaissance Technologies James Simons, the co-founder of Renaissance Technologies, propelled his fund to the second spot on the list. Renaissance is one of the oldest and most popular quantitative firms, and its strategy has paid off significantly. The firm is headquartered in New York and has roughly $68 billion in AUM. It serves corporations, trusts, individual investors, and financial institutions. Renaissance is currently run by Peter Brown while Simons remains a board member. He had the most earnings of any hedge fund manager in 2018 after making $1.6 billion. Simons had a net worth of $21.6 billion as of March 2020, according to Forbes. Because they require a higher minimum investment, hedge funds attract high-net-worth individuals. Man Group Headquartered in London, Man Group is the third-largest hedge fund operator with more than $62 billion of assets under management. It provides a range of funds to institutional and private investors. The company has offices around the world including Hong Kong, New York, Tokyo, and Sydney. James Man founded the company in 1783 as a sugar cooperative and brokerage firm. With shares listed on the London Stock Exchange (LSE), it is the largest publicly-traded hedge fund in the world today. Luke Ellis is Man Group's chief executive officer (CEO). AQR Capital Management Cliff Asness, the co-founder of AQR Capital Management, has seen his firm's assets grow to more than $61 billion since the firm was founded in 1998. According to AQR, the firm had a total of $185 billion in AUM as of September 2019. AQR is the largest hedge fund representing the quant fund group and offers a number of different funds for high net worth and individual investors. However, the firm announced that it was cutting up to 10% of its workforce in early 2020 after losing substantial assets in 2019. Two Sigma Rounding out the top five is Two Sigma, another major player in the quant fund world. Thanks to its innovative technology, Two Sigma secured the fifth spot in this list of largest hedge funds by asset with approximately $43 billion in assets under management. Two Sigma has a workforce of about 1,500 employees who work in offices in New York, the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and Japan. David Siegel, John Overdeck, and Mark Pickard established the firm in 2001. What Is Berkshire Hathaway? Berkshire Hathaway is a holding company for a multitude of businesses, including GEICO and Fruit of the Loom. It's run by chair and CEO Warren Buffett. Berkshire Hathaway is headquartered in Omaha, Nebraska. Originally, it was a company comprised of a group of textile milling plants. Buffett assumed control of the struggling New England company in 1965. Since that time, Berkshire has grown to be one of the largest companies in the world, based on market capitalization. Key Takeaways Berkshire Hathaway is a massive holding company that's been run by famed value investor Warren Buffett since the 1960s. Berkshire Hathaway has a market capitalization of close to $700 billion. Its class A shares (BRK.A) are among the most expensive in the stock market. It owns a variety of well-known private businesses and significant minority interests in public companies, such as Apple. Greg Abel is the heir apparent to Berkshire CEO Warren Buffett who, in his nineties, has yet to announce any plans to step down. 1:41 How Warren Buffett Made Berkshire a Winner Understanding Berkshire Hathaway Warren Buffett became the controlling shareholder of Berkshire Hathaway in the mid-1960s and began a progressive strategy of diverting cash flows from the core business into other investments. As of May 2022, Berkshire Hathaway had a market capitalization of close to $700 billion, making it one of the largest publicly traded companies worldwide. Berkshire Hathaway has a long history of operating success and smart investments. The company currently is the seventh-largest public company in the world in terms of market capitalization. Berkshire's stock trades on the New York Stock Exchange as two classesA shares and B shares. Class A shares closed at $471,670 per share on May 17, 2022. 3,641,613% The overall return of Berkshire Hathaways stock from 1965 to 2021. During this same period, the S&P 500 returned 30,209%. Insurance subsidiaries represent a large part of Berkshire Hathaway's holdings. However, the company also manages hundreds of diverse businesses all over the world. These include Duracell, International Dairy Queen, Pampered Chef, Fruit of the Loom, NetJets, and GEICO, among others. In addition to owning private companies, Berkshire also has a large investment portfolio of stocks in major public companies, such as Apple (AAPL), Bank of America (BAC), and United Parcel Service (UPS). As of the first quarter of 2022, Berkshire's public market equity portfolio was valued at more than $363 billion. Early in his career, Buffett came across the novel idea to use the float from his insurance subsidiaries to invest elsewhere. He focused on selecting stock that would be held for the long term. Buffett has long eschewed a diversified stock portfolio in favor of trusted investments that would be over-weighted in order to leverage the anticipated return. Over time, Buffetts investing prowess became so renowned that Berkshire Hathaway's annual shareholder meetings are now a mecca for value investing proponents. They're also the target of intense media scrutiny. Special Considerations From 1965 to 2021, the compounded annual gain of Berkshire Hathaways stock was just shy of twice that of the S&P 500 index. Berkshires stock generated an annualized 20.1% over that period, while the S&P 500s annualized gain was 10.5%. Succession has always been a hot topic for Berkshire. The big question is whether Buffetts replacement can continue the streak of outperforming the market. This becomes even more pressing when you consider that Buffett turned 91 years old in August of 2021. In 2010, Buffett announced that he would be succeeded at Berkshire Hathaway by a team comprised of one CEO and two to four investment managers. In 2011, it was announced that hedge fund managers Todd Combs and Ted Weschler would be two of those managers. In 2018, the company put Ajit Jain in charge of all of the insurance operations and made Greg Abel the manager of all other (noninsurance) operations. Both men seemed likely candidates for Buffett's heir apparent. Buffet has not announced any retirement plans. Still, it's good that the question of succession has been answered, considering the advanced age of the Oracle of Omaha. On May 1, 2021, vice chair of Berkshire Hathaway, Charlie Munger, unofficially announced that Warren Buffett would be succeeded as CEO by Greg Abel when Buffett eventually steps down. Abel's official title is CEO of Berkshire Hathaway Energy and vice chair in charge of noninsurance operations. Who Is Warren Buffett? Warren Buffett is a well-known business owner and investor. He's renowned not only for the jaw-dropping success of Berkshire Hathaway, the holding company of which he's been in charge since 1964. Buffett is also celebrated for his winning approach to investing, which has created great wealth for many shareholders. His frugal lifestyle, despite being one of the world's wealthiest individuals, and his easy-going manner have earned him fans across the globe. What Is Value Investing? Value investing refers to investing in a security with an intrinsic value that's greater than its market value. The idea is that the undervalued security's market value should increase to meet its intrinsic value. Warren Buffett is one example of an investor whose focus on value investing has led to incredible success. Small Cap Stocks vs. Large Cap Stocks: An Overview Historically, market capitalization, defined as the value of all outstanding shares of a corporation, has an inverse or opposite relationship to both risk and return. On average, large-cap corporationsthose with market capitalizations of US$10 billion and greatertend to grow more slowly than mid-cap companies. Mid-cap companies are those with capitalization between $2 and $10 billion, while small-cap corporations have between $300 million and $2 billion. These definitions of large cap and small cap differ slightly between the brokerage houses, and the dividing lines have shifted over time. The differing definitions are relatively superficial and only matter for the companies that are on the borderlines. Key Takeaways Publicly traded companies are often segmented by their market capitalizationthat is, the total value of their shares in the market. Large-cap corporations, or those with larger market capitalizations of $10 billion or more, tend to grow more slowly than small caps, which have values between $300 million and $2 billion. Large caps tend to be more mature companies, and so are less volatile during rough markets as investors fly to quality and become more risk-averse. Shares of small caps and midcaps may be more affordable for investors than large caps, but smaller stocks also tend to have greater price volatility. 1:26 Understanding Small vs. Big-Cap Stocks Small Cap Stocks Small cap stocks have fewer publicly-traded shares than mid or large-cap companies. As mentioned earlier, these businesses have between $300 million and $2 billion of the total dollar value of all outstanding sharesthose held by investors, institutional investors, and company insiders. Smaller businesses will float smaller offerings of shares. So, these stocks may be thinly traded and it may take longer for their transactions to finalize. However, the small-cap marketplace is one place where the individual investor has an advantage over institutional investors. Since they buy large blocks of stocks, institutional investors do not involve themselves as frequently in small-cap offerings. If they did, they would find themselves owning controlling portions of these smaller businesses. Lack of liquidity remains a struggle for small cap stocks, especially for investors who take pride in building their portfolios on diversification. This difference has two effects: Small-cap investors may struggle to offload shares. When there is less liquidity in a marketplace, an investor may find it takes longer to buy or sell a particular holding with little daily trading volume. The managers of small-cap funds close their funds to new investors at lower assets under management (AUM) thresholds. Lack of liquidity remains a struggle for small caps, especially for investors who take pride in building their portfolios on diversification. Large Cap Stocks Large cap stocksalso known as big capsare shares that trade for corporations with a market capitalization of $10 billion or more. Large-cap stocks tend to be less volatile during rough markets as investors fly to quality and stability and become more risk-averse. These companies comprise over 90% of the American equities marketplace and include names such as mobile communications giant Apple (AAPL), multinational conglomerate Berkshire Hathaway (BRK.A), and oil and gas colossus Exxon Mobil (XOM). Many indices and benchmarks follow large-cap companies such as the Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA) and the Standard and Poor's 500 (S&P 500). Since large cap stocks represent the majority of the U.S. equity market, they are often looked to as core portfolio investments. Characteristics often associated with large cap stocks include the following: Transparent: Large cap companies are typically transparent, making it easy for investors to find and analyze public information about them. Dividend payers: Large cap, stable, established companies are often the companies investors choose for dividend income distributions. Their mature market establishment has allowed them to establish and commit to high dividend payout ratios. Stable and impactful: Large cap stocks are typically blue-chip companies at peak business cycle phases, generating established and stable revenue and earnings. They tend to move with the market economy because of their size. They are also market leaders. They produce innovative solutions often with global market operations, and market news about these companies is typically impactful to the broad market overall. Key Differences There is a decided advantage for large caps in terms of liquidity and research coverage. Large-cap offerings have a strong following, and there is an abundance of company financials, independent research, and market data available for investors to review. Additionally, large caps tend to operate with more market efficiencytrading at prices that reflect the underlying companyalso, they trade at higher volumes than their smaller cousins. Small cap stocks tend to be more volatile and riskier investments. Small-cap firms generally have less access to capital and, overall, not as many financial resources. This makes it difficult for smaller companies to obtain the necessary financing to bridge gaps in cash flow, fund new market growth pursuits, or undertake large capital expenditures. This problem can become more severe for small-cap companies during lows in the economic cycle. Despite the additional risk of small-cap stocks, there are good arguments for investing in them. One advantage is that it is easier for small companies to generate proportionately large growth rates. Sales of $500,000 can be doubled a lot more easily than sales of $5 million. Also, since a small, intimate managerial staff often runs smaller companies, they can more quickly adapt to changing market conditions in somewhat the same way it is easier for a small boat to change course than it is for a large ocean liner. Likewise, large-cap stocks are not always ideal. As mature companies, they may offer fewer growth opportunities and may not be as nimble to changing economic trends. Indeed, several large companies have experienced turmoil and have lost favor. Just because it's a large cap, doesn't mean it's always a great investment. You still have to do your research, which means looking at other, smaller companies that can provide you with a great basis for your overall investment portfolio. Historical Example Volatility struck small caps in late 2018, although this is not a new phenomenon. Small cap stocks did well in the first three quarters of 2018, entering September of that year with the Russell 2000 index up 13.4% compared to 8.5% for the S&P 500. Between 1980 and 2015, small caps averaged 11.24% annual growth in the face of rising interest rates, easily outpacing midcaps at 8.59% and large caps at 8.00%. In the first weeks of 2019, the Russell 2000 led the market by 7% to the S&P 500s 3.7%. Growth investors and investors with high-risk tolerance may be interested in looking for high-growth, high-beta stocks. High-beta stocks can be used for generating high returns but they also have significant downside risk when markets fall. Understanding beta and its uses can be important for growth investors seeking to identify the best-performing stocks at large. Below we take a look at the markets highest beta stocks with the highest returns. While past performance is not an indication of future results, these stocks have been able to significantly outperform the S&P 500s one-year return. Key Takeaways High beta stocks are those that are positively correlated with returns of the S&P 500, but at an amplified magnitude. Because of this amplification, these stocks tend to outperform in bull markets, but can greatly underperform in bear markets. Here, we look at 3 of the highest beta stocks among the S&P 500 companies in 2019 as illustrative examples. Beta and Risk Beta is a statistical measure of a stock's relative volatility to that of the broader market (typically the S&P 500), where it can be interpreted as a measure of riskiness. A stock's beta is arrived at using regression analysis that infers the correlation in price changes in the stock to the S&P 500. Therefore, a beta of 1.0 indicates that a stocks volatility is parallel to that of the market, and so will often move in tandem with the index and at the same magnitudes. A beta of above 1.0 means that the stock will have greater volatility than the market and a beta less than 1.0 indicates lower volatility. Volatility is usually an indicator of risk and higher betas mean higher risk while lower betas mean lower risk. Thus, stocks with higher betas may gain more in up markets but also lose more in down markets. Investing in High Beta Stocks High beta stocks can be great investments in bull markets since they are expected to outperform the S&P 500 by a marginal amount. They do however require a great deal of active management due to their market sensitivity. These are highly volatile and therefore risky investments in isolation. Thus, in the case of a bear market reversal, these stocks could also be expected to lose the most, so it is important to keep an eye on them as high beta stocks are generally not long-term buy-and-hold investments. Historical Examples of High-Beta Stocks Below, we look at three stocks from the year 2019 as historical examples of stocks with betas of around 2.5, and which were members of the S&P 500 index. Note that these historical examples are for informational purposes only to give insight into how high-beta stocks typically behave, and are intended as investment advice. Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) AMD is a semiconductor company that makes chipsets and microchips, competing with the likes of Intel and Qualcom. In 2019, shares of AMD more than doubled in valueits market cap as of June 2020 is $53 billion. Despite its bullish run, the company remained riskier than most S&P 500 stocks, with a beta of 2.12. SVB Financial Group (SIVB) SVB Financial group owns and operated Silicon Valley Bank, servicing clients in that rich region of California. According to the company's website, Silicon Valley Bank has helped fund more than 30,000 start-ups. SVB is on the list of largest banks in the United States. The bank is also one of the largest providers of financial services to wine producers in Napa Valley. Because of its relative niche market and riskier clientele, the company's shares carried a beta of 2.25. United Rentals, Inc. (URI) United Rentals is the largest equipment rental company in the world, servicing customers mainly in the United States and Canada. Founded in 1997, URI now owns nearly 700,000 pieces of heavy equipment for rent, worth nearly $15 billion. However, the company operates in a highly cyclical and commoditized industry and is greatly impacted by small changes in demand that can arise from contractions in the construction or building industries, among others. The stock thus had a beta of 2.28. The Bottom Line High beta stocks require a great deal of active management. They are also often small to mid-cap stocks that are maturing with significant volatility around new announcements. All three of the stocks here are in the small-cap realm with Largo and California Resources pushing into the mid-cap territory. Each has a few growth catalysts that have helped to propel their returns. Keep in mind, that investing in high growth, high beta stocks also comes with high risks so it is important to monitor these investments and also seek to balance them with lower risk portfolio holdings and cash for liquidity. What Is Investment Analysis? Investment analysis is a broad term for many different methods of evaluating investments, industry sectors, and economic trends. It can include charting past returns to predict future performance, selecting the type of investment that best suits an investor's needs, or evaluating individual securities such as stocks and bonds to determine their risks, yield potential, or price movements. Investment analysis is key to a sound portfolio management strategy. Understanding Investment Analysis The aim of investment analysis is to determine how an investment is likely to perform and how suitable it is for a particular investor. Key factors in investment analysis include the appropriate entry price, the expected time horizon for holding an investment, and the role the investment will play in the portfolio as a whole. In conducting an investment analysis of a mutual fund, for example, an investor looks at how the fund performed over time compared to its benchmark and to its main competitors. Peer fund comparison includes investigating the differences in performance, expense ratios, management stability, sector weighting, investment style, and asset allocation. In investing, one size does not fit all. Just as there are many different types of investors with unique goals, time horizons, and incomes, there are investment opportunities that match those individual parameters. Strategic Thinking Investment analysis can also involve evaluating an overall investment strategy in terms of the thought process that went into making it, the person's needs and financial situation at the time, how the portfolio performed, and whether it's time for a correction or adjustment. Investors who are not comfortable doing investment analysis on their own can seek advice from an investment advisor or another financial professional. Key Takeaways Investment analysis involves researching and evaluating a security or an industry to predict its future performance and determine its suitability to a specific investor. Investment analysis may also involve evaluating or creating an overall financial strategy. Types of investment analysis include bottom-up, top-down, fundamental, and technical. Types of Investment Analysis While there are countless ways to analyze securities, sectors, and markets, investment analysis can be divided into several basic approaches. Top-Down vs. Bottom-Up When making investment decisions, investors can use a bottom-up investment analysis approach or a top-down approach. Bottom-up investment analysis entails analyzing individual stocks for their merits, such as their valuation, management competence, pricing power, and other unique characteristics. Bottom-up investment analysis does not focus on economic cycles or market cycles. Instead, it aims to find the best companies and stocks regardless of the overarching trends. In essence, bottom-up investing takes a microeconomic approach to investing rather than a macroeconomic or global approach. The global approach is a hallmark of top-down investment analysis. It starts with an analysis of the economic, market, and industry trends before zeroing in on the investments that will benefit from those trends. Top-Down and Bottom-Up Examples In a top-down approach, an investor might evaluate various sectors and conclude that financials will likely perform better than industrials. As a result, the investor decides the investment portfolio will be overweight financials and underweight industrials. Then it's time to find the best stocks in the financial sector. Proponents of bottom-up analysis include Warren Buffett and his mentor, Benjamin Graham. In contrast, the bottom-up investor may have found that an industrial company made for a compelling investment and allocated a significant amount of capital to it even though the outlook for the broader industry was relatively negative. The investor has concluded that the stock will outperform its industry. Fundamental vs. Technical Analysis Other investment analysis methods include fundamental analysis and technical analysis. The fundamental analyst stresses the financial health of companies as well as the broader economic outlook. Practitioners of fundamental analysis seek stocks they believe the market has mispriced. That is, they are trading at a price lower than is warranted by their intrinsic value. Often using bottom-up analysis, these investors will evaluate a company's financial soundness, future business prospects, and dividend potential to determine whether it will make a satisfactory investment. Proponents of this style include Warren Buffett and his mentor, Benjamin Graham. Technical Analysis The technical analyst evaluates patterns of stock prices and statistical parameters, using computer-calculated charts and graphs. Unlike fundamental analysts, who attempt to evaluate a security's intrinsic value, technical analysts focus on patterns of price movements, trading signals, and various other analytical charting tools to evaluate a security's strength or weakness. Day traders make frequent use of technical analysis in devising their strategies and timing their buying and selling activity. Real-World Example of Investment Analysis Research analysts frequently release investment analysis reports on individual securities, asset classes, and market sectors, with a recommendation to buy, sell or hold them. For example, on Feb. 11, 2021, Charles Schwab issued Sector Insights: A View on 11 Equity sectors. The report gives a three-to-six month outlook on the 11 main stock sectors that represent the broader economy. Among the highlights, Schwab analysts looked at the communication services sector, which includes telecommunication service providers, media, entertainment, and interactive media. In the note, the analysts said that while the pandemic-related stay-at-home behaviors have been good for some companies in the sector, with streaming demand rising, the demand for traditional TV and cable had dropped, which has hurt ad revenues. The analysts then assigned an overall neutral assessment rating of "market perform." This neutral rating means the communication services sector should provide returns in line with that of the S&P 500. Schwab also looked at the financial sector, which includes banks, savings and loans, insurers, investment banking, brokerages, mortgage finance companies, and mortgage real estate investment trusts. Schwab noted that the sector should benefit from the likelihood of continued fiscal stimulus coming out of Washington, a Federal Reserve that is likely to maintain stimulus for years, the positive impact of the vaccine rollout, and the likelihood of a continued rise in long-term interest rates. Schwab rated the financials sector "outperform," meaning that the sector and its underlying issues are likely to see returns that surpass the S&P 500. Wells Fargo & Company (WFC) was reported to be the third largest of the four "too big to fail" money center banks in the first quarter. This was a decline from number two, while Bank of America Corporation (BAC) moved from third to second. Judging from the daily and weekly charts shown below, investors have forgiven Wells Fargo for its sins involving fraudulent account activities against its depositors. The question is whether the banking giant is still losing clients, which resulted in the bank's decline to number three from number two in terms of total assets. The stock closed Wednesday, July 11, at $56.07, down 7.6% year to date and in correction territory at 15.4% below its 2018 high of $66.31 set on Jan. 29. As a sign of forgiveness, the stock is 11.6% above its 2018 low of $50.26 set on April 18. Analysts expect Wells Fargo to post earnings per share between $1.12 and $1.16 when the bank reports results before the opening bell on Friday, July 13. The consensus is that the fake account scandal that surfaced about two years ago remains a problem as additional incidents continue to surface. According to many on Wall Street, it will be a challenge for Wells Fargo to beat earnings estimates. (See also: Wells Fargo Stock May Fall 7% Amid Tepid Growth.) The daily chart for Wells Fargo Courtesy of MetaStock Xenith Wells Fargo began 2018 staying below its annual risky level of $67.18 when it set its 2018 high of $66.31 on Jan. 29. The stock subsequently traded as low as $50.26 on April 18, down 24.2% and into bear market territory. The 11.6% rebound off the low has the stock just below its 200-day simple moving average of $56.37. The horizontal lines show the stock above its weekly pivot of $55.57 and below its monthly and semiannual pivots of $57.32 and $57.48, respectively, with its quarterly and annual risky levels of $61.46 and $67.18, respectively. The weekly chart for Wells Fargo Courtesy of MetaStock Xenith The weekly chart for Wells Fargo is positive, with the stock above its five-week modified moving average of $55.18. The stock is above its 200-week simple moving average at $53.42, which is also the "reversion to the mean," which held at the end of June. The 12 x 3 x 3 weekly slow stochastic reading is projected to rise to 72.50 this week, up from 68.48 on July 6. Given these charts and analysis, investors should buy Wells Fargo shares on weakness to the 200-week simple moving average of $53.42 and reduce holdings on strength to my quarterly risky level of $61.46. (For more, see: 9 Bank Stocks That May Rise on Rich Payouts.) Touch ID is supposedly the most secure method of locking your iOS devices, because its much harder to hack than a passcode. But is it? At Mobile World Congress last week, a Chinese startup showed its possible to unlock an iPhone using childrens Play-Doh. In the video embedded in the tweet below from tech reporter Arjun Kharpal, Jason Chaikin, president of mobile security firm Vkansee, shows its possible to unlock one of Apples latest iPhones using a blob of Play-Doh. It takes a couple of tries, but it works. Vkansee showed how to hack an iPhone fingerprint sensor using Play-Doh #MWC16 pic.twitter.com/FRY7JGMh2M Arjun Kharpal (@ArjunKharpal) February 24, 2016 While weve seen Touch ID being operated by toes and other body parts, and even a cats paws, this is definitely the sneakiest, most primitive solution yet. Theoretically, a thief could use the same trick to unlock your iPhone or iPad, and gain access to all of your data. But dont be too concerned just yet, because its nowhere near as worrying as it looks. What this video doesnt show is that Vkansee made that Play-Doh fingertip from a cast of a finger made in dental paste. Without that, the hack doesnt work. So, in order to gain entry to your iPhone using this method, a hacker would first need to create their own dental paste cast of your fingerprint, which would obviously be incredibly difficult without your knowledge. Nevertheless, Chaikin was demonstrating this hack to highlight the lack of sophistication in current biometric solutions, explains MarketWatch. His company, incidentally, is marketing its own fingerprint sensor, but this isnt the first time current biometric authenticators has been called into question. Apple did not respond to a request for comment on this, but the company did point Kharpal to its website, where it states every fingerprint is unique, so it is rare that even a small section of two separate fingerprints are alike enough to register as a match for Touch ID. The probability of this happening is 1-in-50,000 for one enrolled finger. This is much better than the 1-in-10,000 odds of guessing a typical 4-digit passcode. Today is the leap day, a date that occurs once every four years and, famously, according to Irish folk tradition, it's the day when ladies can propose to their man. In Ireland, the tradition of ladies getting down on one knee is said to date back to the 5th century when St. Bridget complained to St. Patrick that women had to wait too long for suitors to propose. The legend goes that Irelands patron saint gave women a single day the last day of the shortest month the leap day to propose. Its said that Bridget dropped straight to one knee and proposed but he refused. He kissed her on the cheek and offered her a silk gown to soften the blow. Read more: 2016 is a Leap Year that means women can ask men to marry them Although we consider it an Irish tradition, the leap day is recognized as something special in many places. Below is a collection of some pretty strange facts about this unusual day. - If a woman is going to pop the question she must wear breeches or a scarlet petticoat. - The frog is a symbol associated with February 29. The Australian rocket frog can leap over two meters. - The town of Anthony,TX is the self-proclaimed "Leap Year Capital of the World" and holds a festival to celebrate the fact. - People born on February 29 are called "leaplings" or "leapers." - Elsewhere in Europe, February 29 is also known as Bachelors Day, when women are permitted to propose. In their cases if the man refuses they are obliged to give the women money or a dress. - In upper-class societies in Europe if the man refuses he must buy the woman 12 pairs of globes to hide the womans embarrassment of not having an engagement ring. - In Greece it is considered unlucky to marry on a leap day. - The record for the most generations born on leap day is held by the Keogh family in Ireland and UK. Peter Anthony Keogh was born on leap day in 1940 in Ireland, his son Peter Eric came into the world on February 29 1964 in the UK and a granddaughter, Bethany Wealth on leap day in 1996. - In the Scotland they believe it was Queen Margaret who came up with the notion that women could propose on leap days. Its said she was just five years old when she came up with the notion. - The plot of Gilbert and Sullivan's Pirates of Penzance revolved around Frederic's discovery that, because he was born on a leap day, he must remain apprenticed to pirates for another 63 years before he can join Mabel, his lover. - February 29 also marks Rare Disease Day. - If you work on a fixed annual wagethen youre working for free today! - Astrologers believe people born on February 29 have unusual talents. - On this day in 1960 Hugh Hefner opened his first Playboy Club. Heres a list of some famous folks who were born on a leap day: - John Byron, English poet, hymnist, and inventor of a system of shorthand. (d. 1763) - Ja Rule, rapper. - Gioacchino Rossini Italian composer ("The Barber of Seville," "William Tell") (d.1868). - John Phillip Holland, Ireland Designed and built the first submarine for U.S. Navy (d.1914) - Wladimir Rudolfovich Vogel, composer - Jimmy Dorsey (James Francis Dorsey) Legendary saxophonist, conductor, songwriter and composer. Read more: Amy Adams movie Leap Year is so bad its garnered cult status (VIDEO) H/T: Telegraph.co.uk, "Leap Year" was slammed by critics during its 2010 release, but the rom-com still gets queued up ahead of February 29 "Leap Year," with its horrible Irish accents and play on stereotypes, has to be one of the most cringe-inducing movies about Ireland ever made. Seeing as 2020 is a leap year, the film is popping up again all over the place ten years after it was first released. Despite getting pretty tanked across the board by film critics, the film has achieved a sort of cult status amongst its fans. Read More: Ladies! 2020 is a Leap Year, do you know the Irish proposal tradition? As the title suggests the movie tells the story of Anna Brady (McAdams) who travels to Dublin to propose marriage to her boyfriend (Adam Scott) on Leap Day in accordance with an old Irish tradition. However, charming Irishman Declan (Matthew Goode, ahem, an Englishman) throws a wrench in her plans. Read More: Riverdance animated movie coming soon According to IMBD, the 2010 movie has a rating of 6.4 out of ten but on RottenTomatoes (critics opinions are collated) it achieved a desperate 23 percent from critics and 47 percent from audiences. The review from Hot Press, a Dublin-based music magazine, says it all: As if economic downturn and the confederacy of dunces at the top werent bad enough, Leap Year revives some horrors of old. Remember the crap Ireland from movies of yesteryear? Well, crap Ireland is back on screen and crapper than ever. Anand (Hilary & Jackie, When Did You Last See Your Father?) Tuckers risible film offers the self-loathing Irish consumer a unique opportunity to experience a backward nation of drunken, superstitious morons, no infrastructure and cutesy-pie John Hinde landscapes. The plot is standard rom-com issue. Amy Adams travels to Ireland to propose to her fiance but gets sidetracked by a rugged Irish barman (Englishman Matthew Goode) and subnormal natives who actually use the phrase Top of the morning. According to the films geography, we now think Dingle is located near Swansea. Among the most problematic pieces of "Leap Year" are that most of the roads in Ireland are depicted as dirt tracks, the attempts at Irish accents are less than stellar, and the Irish barman's obsession with his mother's Claddagh ring will leave you rolling your eyes. Further, it appears no one considered consulting a map of Ireland while making the film. At one stage, the characters walk from Dingle to Tipperary in about an hour ... but it takes three days to get from Dingle to Dublin?! Nevermind when Amy's character leaves a pub in Dingle and is magically transported to the Aran Islands. Read More: Confirmed: Hilary Swank will star in PS I Love You sequel It's not just the Irish, however, who weren't fans of "Leap Year." Time Magazine slammed it as the worst film of 2010. US Magazine said: "Despite some nice turns at the end, the flick suffers from too many cheap laughs and zero spark between the stars." Huffington Post wrote: "Leap Year is the kind of movie that shows up weekly, if not daily, on the Lifetime, WE, and Hallmark channels." They added: "Apparently, the public has an insatiable appetite for unfunny romantic comedies about opposites, who attract after first repelling each other." OK Magazine wrote: "There is one moment of hope in "Leap Year," and it comes near the end of the movie, after the idiot lead character, Anna (Amy Adams) faces a severe disappointment in a small Irish town, then high-tails it to a jagged cliff. Its here that hope finally arises that Anna will come to her senses and live up to the title by taking a header off the cliff in an effort to atone for her sins of being the stupidest idiot alive and leading the audience through 90 minutes of her drudgery-inducing hunt for someone, anyone maybe even any thing to marry her." Hollywood.com said: "While watching "Leap Year," I swear I could hear the Irish countryside quietly weeping as it witnessed Goode and Adams slog through the film's succession of trite misadventures, the talented actors straining in vain to manufacture some semblance of romantic chemistry as an assortment of jolly "Waking Ned Devine" types futilely spurred them on ... It's the worst thing to come out of Ireland since The Cranberries." Despite the bad reviews, people can seem to stop queueing the movie up ahead of February 29, 2020. Read More: Craic Fest, for the best of Irish film and music in New York City How do you feel about "Leap Year"? Let us know in the comments! The temperature is rising every hour on all shores, but this is still an election free zone and I hope ye agree with that decision especially since I have extremely good tidings for all of you, maybe especially those in the United States. This good news cancels out the fact that I have not yet managed to obtain my audition with the uniquely gifted porcine King of Paradise I informed ye about last week. Worry not, it will happen soon. Let me then cut straight to the core of the good news. This will enrich the future for many of you with Irish blood coursing through your veins and that almost insatiable hunger so many of you out in the diaspora have for more knowledge about your ancestry and background. I have met so many Irish Americans and Anglo-Irish indeed down the years, both in Ireland and in the USA and in Europe, who have this genetic curiosity. It is deep-rooted and it is touching and I am well aware that it is often not fully satisfied by the information gleaned from orthodox heritage searches. Even for those who visit the homeland in their quest for the deepest roots. That trip is not feasible for many of you for varied reasons. It is also a modern fact of this New Ireland that the media image of the state, especially on the public broadcasting services such as RTE, is one which has a definite spin on it, a spin directed at enhancing not just our crucial tourism industry but also the international reputation of a little island just slowly emerging from a horrific recession. It is a reality that the Dublin angles on about every issue are "spun" that way and that the huge swathes of rural Ireland whose folk were the majority of the passengers on the coffin ships to the New World, lose out significantly. Wherever in the diaspora you are reading this piece, it is most likely that the ancestors who begat you hailed from the areas hardest hit by the Famine, the poorer counties along the west and south coast. It is hopefully likely you know from which county your ancestors emigrated. If that is the case I have very good news for you indeed. I have glancingly mentioned the new TV station called Irish TV a few times in the recent past. I wish to stress that I have absolutely no professional connection with Irish TV, have never freelanced for them or had any contact whatever except as a TV viewer. But what I am saying here and now is that the reality and truth of modern life in your home county today is to be found 24/7 on Irish TV in a homespun way that Is quite unique. The Mayo-based station has its faults, and plenty of them, and the majority of its presenters are not like the polished pundits and anchors of the mainstream media, but, dammit, maybe because of that, Irish TV is broadcasting to the wide world the unvarnished 2016 realities, warts and all, of what we are. It's crews and cameras visit the small townlands and parishes which the other stations largely shun except when there is a major tragedy there. And, in a truly impressive schedule, they have a weekly show devoted to every county. No matter which county blood is in your veins, you can now view the ordinary daily life there nowadays. The cameras show agricultural shows, festivals and parades and sporting celebrations and concerts and dancing and music. If you have Irish relatives still you may see them dancing a set in the parish hall, drinking a pint in the pub, selling a calf or a sheep at the mart. Maybe you will be lucky enough to see a namesake cousin who bears an uncanny resemblance to you or some other family member. Irish TV's slogan is that it brings local stories to a global audience. It is doing that. If you have that curiosity about your past I warmly commend you to check out its offerings on the Internet. It could very well offer you another window into understanding exactly what makes you tick and tock. Try it and see. When Donald Trump and Pope Francis got into a war of words last week, everyone focused on the two larger-than-life personalities, and whether or not the pope had dissed The Donald. A person who thinks only about building walls, wherever they may be, and not building bridges, is not Christian, the pope said. Trump responded by dismissing the pope as a very political person, and added that the pope was being manipulated by Mexican power brokers. Trump added, I dont think (the pope) understands the danger of the open border that we have with Mexico. I think Mexico got him to do it because they want to keep the border just the way it is. Theyre making a fortune, and were losing. This had people speculating that Trump had finally gone too far. What happened next? Trump won the South Carolina primary. Meanwhile, amidst all this, it barely went noticed that the pope made some very interesting comments about birth control. Asked about using birth control pills to halt the spread of the Zika virus, Pope Francis said, Avoiding pregnancy is not an absolute evil. In certain cases, as in this one, as in that one I mentioned of Blessed Paul VI, it was clear. I would also urge doctors to do their utmost to find vaccines against these mosquitoes that carry this disease. The pope was referring to Pope Paul VIs decision in the 1960s to allow nuns to use contraception because they had been threatened with rape. The real story here seemed to be Pope Francis, yet again, nudging open a door the Catholic Church has sought keep closed for a long, long time. No, its not like Francis is saying its okay for Catholics to use contraception, even though theyve been doing exactly that for decades. Still, given the state of debate surrounding Catholics, birth control and abortion, any opening is a good one. Indeed, so much focus has been placed on the rise of Trump that social issues like abortion have been -- temporarily -- cast aside. But this may be the sleeping giant of the presidential race. The death of Supreme Court justice Antonin Scalia, and the looming holy war over replacing him on the high court, will surely bring these issues back to the political spotlight. Indeed, one of the cases about to be argued before the eight-member court is Whole Womens Health vs. Cole. At the center of the case is a Texas law that places restrictions on medical facilities that can perform abortions. As U.S. News and World Report noted, Those in favor of the Texas law say it is intended to protect womens health, as it brings health and safety standards for abortion clinics more in line with those of other medical facilities. Opponents argue the law is intended only as means to limit abortion. The lead plaintiff, an abortion provider called Whole Womans Health, has said the law isnt medically necessary, is demanding and expensive, and interferes with womens health care. A decision on the case is likely to come in late June. Quite obviously this case -- and most like it -- will be decided by the justice who will replace Scalia. Will President Obama manage to get a nominee past the Senate? Or will Trump, or Ted Cruz, or Hillary Clinton do the nominating? Irish American Catholics may well play a key role in deciding all of this. The Catholic vote has been central to recent presidential elections, and Trump is charging hard for these votes. As The New York Times noted after the Trump-Francis kerfuffle, Mr. Trumps remarks could prove far more damaging to him in heavily Catholic states like New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania, all of which have delegate-rich primaries where he is aiming for strong victories. He and his advisers have long seen working-class white voters as a core part of his electoral base. But these voters have doubts about Clinton as well. Trump, meanwhile, has been trying to come off as a hard-core opponent of abortion to please evangelical Christians. Ironically, that may actually play best with another group of voters who know they are suppose to be against abortion but are more concerned with other matters: Catholics. * Contact sidewalks@tdeignan.blogspot.com. What you see below is a young professional's resume, a guy who clearly enjoys the business world and who was keen to go far. Declan Garrity is a 24-year-old native of Tyrone in Ireland on a J-1 visa in America like hundreds of thousands before him. His Facebook page (now closed) showed a sharp young man hanging out with a group of friends and a girlfriend. He likes to be constantly learning when challenged. He seems like a very smart young guy making his way. Take a look. His resume, on LinkedIn, reads Four years experience in financial planning, project management and setting strategy. Key skills in working in teams from international backgrounds, leadership, strategic thinking and quantitative analysis. International Volunteering experience in Russia, South Africa and Mozambique. A competitive market orientated professional with an interest in global markets and multinational companies. Motivated by maintaining a tight work ethic, constantly learning whilst being challenged. "Major Accomplishments GPA 3.80 - Masters in International Business and specialization in Investment Banking Presented to senior management at Fidelity Investments on their global IT solutions Summer Research Analyst in market analysis of international economic development agencies "Specialties include: Investment Banking Corporate Finance Quantitative Analysis Cross-cultural Management Global Economics International Accounting Business Development." This talented young man hid a horrible secret. Garrity, from Omagh, County Tyrone, was arrested last Wednesday and has been charged with felony animal cruelty. He appears in court today to answer those charges. Lucy, the cat Garrity allegedly abused, underwent a number of surgeries last week, the New York Daily News reports. The police stated that the cat had fractured hind legs and bruises on her back. Another source told the New York newspaper that bones in Lucys face were broken, as was her pelvis. Her nails were ripped out and she was burnt. The roommate, Danielle, who Garrity met via Craigslist, told DNAinfo that she came home from her an overnight shift at her nursing job on Saturday to find her cat hiding in its carrier, one of its paws twisted in the wrong direction and missing fur, according to the complaint filed. She also found paper towels matted with cat fur and blood in the bathroom. She then took the cat to the vet, who revealed the full extent of its injuries. She said that she send Garrity a text message asking if he had seen anything unusual and that the truth only dawned on her when he never responded. "I didnt see it, until I saw the whole picture," she said. Welcome to the banality of evil. That is the title of a breakthrough book by Hannah Arendt who mapped the career of Adolf Eichmann, a Nazi mass murderer who somehow justified his murders by normalizing them The writer Edward Herrmann explained: Doing terrible things in an organized and systematic way rests on "normalization." This is the process whereby ugly, degrading, murderous, and unspeakable acts become routine and are accepted as "the way things are done." There is usually a division of labor in doing and rationalizing the unthinkable. I dont know what evil was allegedly coursing through Declan Gerritys veins when he allegedly tortured the poor car to where it needed to be on life support. I do know he will be in court this Monday to answer for his horrific act. I hope he sees justice served for picking on a poor, inoffensive animal. A Barclays analyst faces animal cruelty charges Embed this video Enda Kenny has lost a battle but could still win the war. The Fine Gael-Labour coalition he leads has been defeated in the Irish general election but the wily politician, whose electoral base is on the western seaboard in County Mayo, could yet hold onto the job of Taoiseach (prime minister). Although the counting of votes is not yet completed, Fine Gael looks as if it will have just above 50 seats in the Dail, the main house of the Irish parliament, compared to 67 when the general election was called on February 3rd. That's a major setback but it doesn't amount to wipe-out. For the junior partners in government, however, the contest has been a disaster. Heading into the election with 33 Dail deputies, or TDs as they are called, the party led by Joan Burton will be lucky to come back with seven, although she retained her own seat in the constituency of Dublin West. Deputy leader and Environment Minister Alan Kelly, whose brother Declan is a prominent figure in the Irish-American community, was re-elected in Tipperary. Notable casualties at the ballot-box include former justice minister Alan Shatter, one of Ireland's most outspoken and controversial politicians, who was edged out in the three-seat constituency of Dublin Rathdown. Another high-profile figure who lost out on the same electoral battleground in south Dublin was the Minister for Communications, Alex White of the Labour Party. Keep up to date with Irish politics news here It's a political pick'n'mix. Too many to choose from, and you'll never be truly happy with what you choose. #GE16 pic.twitter.com/saL1Hk6Qnp Jonathan Healy (@jonathanhealy) February 29, 2016 Minister for Children and former minister for health, Dr James Reilly of Fine Gael, lost out in the Dublin Fingal constituency to the north of the capital city. Labour veterans Joe Costello in Dublin Central and Emmet Stagg in Kildare North also went down to defeat. Meanwhile the main opposition party, Fianna Fail, is coming back with in or around twice the total of 21 seats it held when going into the election. Although the "Soldiers of Destiny" will have about ten TDs fewer than Fine Gael, they can still claim to have undergone a remarkable recovery. Sinn Fein is also set to increase its Dail membership from 14 TDs to a figure in the mid-twenties. The party led by Gerry Adams will be more than three times larger than Labour. There was criticism of the party leader's performance in media interviews during the campaign and this may have contributed to the defeat of Paul Donnelly, who was considered a sure thing in Dublin West. Sinn Fein's finance spokesman Pearse Doherty was re-elected in Donegal but there was general surprise at the difficulties encountered in the same constituency by the party's spokesman on justice, Padraig Mac Lochlainn, who is fighting for his political life against Independent TD Thomas Pringle, at time of writing. Read more: Irish electorate takes revenge on hairshirt governments austerity program The new Dail will be awash with Independents and members of smaller, fringe parties although the leader of the right-of-center Renua, former Fine Gael TD Lucinda Creighton, lost her seat in Dublin Bay South. While the counting of votes was still going on, Enda Kenny accepted that the coalition partners would not have a majority in the new Dail. But he added that he had a responsibility to do "everything possible" to establish a stable government. But when asked if such an administration might include Fianna Fail, he replied: "I'm not going to talk about any of the options that are open right now." During the election, Kenny rejected the concept of an alliance with Micheal Martin's party and his latest comments are seen as an attempt to forestall a possible move against his leadership of Fine Gael. Fianna Fail also rejected any suggestion, in the course of the campaign, that it might enter coalition with Kenny's party. However, this has not halted intense speculation that they could still cut a deal between them to form the next government. This would be an historic move, since the two parties trace their origins to the Civil War which broke out after the signing of the Anglo-Irish Treaty in 1921. That conflict left a legacy of hatred and suspicion which lasted for decades. Whatever the other implications, a political alliance now would close that bitter chapter in Irish history. If there is no "marriage of convenience" between Fine Gael and Fianna Fail, either or both of the parties could start looking at Sinn Fein as part of a plan to make up the numbers. At their last annual conference, the republicans passed a motion against participation as a minority partner in a government led by either Fianna Fail or Fine Gael. Nevertheless, the prospect of holding office on both sides of the Irish border in the centenary year of the 1916 Rising would have its attractions for some members of Sinn Fein. Counting for the general election may drag out for a number of days in some constituencies but the overall shape of the new Dail is clear enough at this stage. The incumbent administration has been given its marching orders and the only way it can reverse that situation is to gain sufficient support from members of the opposition. Some believe that Fianna Fail will allow the coalition to remain in office for a few months before forcing another election. Others insist that Kenny and Martin will agree a common platform, perhaps including an equal share-out of ministerial positions and an agreement to rotate the office of taoiseach between the leaders of the two parties. There are exciting but uncertain times ahead on the Irish scene. As W.B. Yeats wrote after 1916, all is changed, changed utterly, but nobody knows whether a terrible beauty will be born, or a political gargoyle. Keep up to date with Irish politics news here A former priest has moved to appeal his four-year sentence for paying dissident republicans to intimidate his nephew. Francis Kelleher, with an address in Cork city, admitted approaching a member of the Continuity IRA four years ago. In June 2012, Niall Kellehers teenage son answered the door to three men who were looking for his father. He was not in, so they went to his workplace at Innishannon, Co Cork where they told him they were from the Continuity IRA and warned him to withdraw a statement he had made against his uncle. The threats continued right up until the following January when a man told him over the phone he had been paid a lot of money to take care of him. Francis Kelleher, who was a hospital chaplain at the time, later admitted paying 4,000 for his nephew to be intimidated. Before jailing him for four years last April, Judge Sean ODonnabhain described his actions as going against the very foundation of justice. In his appeal today, his barrister accused the judge of not giving enough weight to mitigating factors such as his admissions and the profound effect the crime has had on his own life. The three-judge panel said they would need time to consider his case. A former Garda press officer has initiated High Court proceedings in an attempt to halt an investigation into alleged wrongdoing. Superintendent David Taylor was arrested in May 2015 in connection with the alleged leaking of very sensitive information to the media. Two mobile phone thieves who targeted fans at a Libertines concert have been jailed for three years after admitting conspiracy to steal. Police arrested Emanuel Paraschiv - who had 38 mobiles stuffed down his trousers - and Marius Buzura, both from east London, at Birmingham's Barclaycard Arena on January 27. Low prices unsustainable Pure economics dictate that low prices lead to low or negative profitability on farms, and in time to lower production. While farmers may first prioritise cash flow generation, they cannot sustain this for long at a loss or when processing capacity becomes insufficient (e.g. Friesland Campina last month). So, the current low prices will turn around for sure, the only question even expert analysts cannot answer, is how long into 2016 it is going to take. Recall the Dairy Forum now I have made it clear, first to the Agriculture Minister Simon Coveney and to the Department of Agriculture General Secretary last week, that we urgently need them to drive a short term strategy with all relevant parties. The Dairy Forum, established last autumn by Minister Coveney, is the environment to co-ordinate delivery of the required actions. What the parties can offer: Co-ops Co-ops have supported milk prices in different ways. Ornua played its part, returning more to co-ops than commodity prices alone, as evidenced by its Purchase Price Index (PPI). It is vital that this support would continue, ideally frontloaded to the expensive early months. Co-ops and Ornua have also worked together to bring forward fixed price contracts allowing farmers to hedge the price for a portion of their milk. This option must be made available to more farmers and for more milk. Postponing merchant credit repayments to peak months has been helpful, and all co-ops should examine what they can offer in this area. Financial institutions Banks must match their offerings to farmers with their supportive marketing message, and provide farmers with flexible, low cost short term cash flow funding options. Long term, internationally competitive funding allowing farmers take repayment holidays without additional costs must become the norm. The Strategic Banking Corporation of Ireland has so far spent 26% of funds on agriculture. It must be made available to farmers at lower costs, and for short, as well as long term, funding. To increase competition and reduce costs in our banking sector, government must be more pro-active in securing European Investment Bank (EIB) funding for farmers. The government and the Financial Regulator must also vet alternative financial providers, such as investment funds, while protecting farmers. Teagasc Teagasc can help farmers with practical financial, budgeting and sound husbandry advice. Some co-ops already operate joint programmes with Teagasc which, among other things, identify those in need and offer assistance with on-farm budgeting. This type of support must be extended. Teagasc must also provide cost-cutting strategies to help farmers regain control of cash flow without harming the long term sustainability of farm and herd. Government at home and in EU IFAs taxation proposal was a major element of our General Election lobbying. We want the new government to deliver flexible taxation solutions allowing farmers individually to smooth out their highly volatile incomes. We need a more proactive approach to prove the market failure that is the higher cost of finance for Irish farmers to secure access to lower cost finance through the European Investment Bank. The incoming Minister for Agriculture and his officials must also critically examine CAP in the context of volatile dairy prices. The intervention safety net, unchanged since 2008, must be reviewed, market support schemes such as APS made more flexible, and new instruments such as margin insurance schemes, and milk price hedging be facilitated, among other things by reconsidering the rules governing State Aids. Why recall the Dairy Forum? Farmers are experiencing a prolonged cash flow crisis, and they need urgently organised support. Necessary actions by the dairy industry, banks, government and state agencies can be best highlighted and co-ordinated through the Dairy Forum. In addition, the Dairy Forum can help the sector learn from the current crisis to develop industry, state and EU tools to help farmers cope with volatile incomes into the longer term. Swedish scholars David Bryngelsson and Stefan Wirsenius have published a report which suggests EU citizens should be pushed to eat poultry and pork, whose husbandry produces significantly less greenhouse gas emissions. The reports authors suggest people will not have to cut out meat altogether, but will have to be more selective in their diet. They state that producing 1kg of protein from dairy results in emissions four times greater than for an equivalent amount of poultry. The report, How Can The EU Climate Targets Be Met? A Combined Analysis of Technological and Demand-Side Changes In Food and Agriculture, was published in the February issue of Food Policy journal. Cuts, by 50% or more, in ruminant meat (beef and mutton) consumption are, most likely, unavoidable if the EU targets are to be met, the report states. Emissions from manure storage can all but be eliminated if the facilities are covered and waste gases are flared (burned off). But reducing the amount of food thrown away only cuts emissions from food and agriculture by 5%-10%. The Swedish study takes into account commitments made by the EU at the COP21 sustainable innovation forum in Paris in December. The EU is seeking a 20% cut in greenhouse gas emissions (versus 1990 levels); to generate 20% of all EU energy from renewables; and to achieve 20% more energy efficiency. The researchers at Chalmers University of Technology and Swedens Technical Research Institute focused their report on GHG emissions from agriculture. They stated that farming contributes to 10% of the total EUs greenhouse gas emissions. This is largely down to two greenhouse gases: Methane from livestock digestion and stored animal manure; and nitrous oxide from organic and mineral nitrogen fertilisers. The report says emissions from the production of fertilisers can be halved if factories used the latest technologies. As a first step, they advise farmers to cover over all manure containers. The production of livestock and fodder globally generates more than three billion tonnes each of carbon dioxide equivalent. In 2014, according to Eurostat data, Germany, Spain, France and the United Kingdom had the highest number of livestock. The largest number of pigs was recorded in Germany and Spain (28.3 and 26.6 million animals respectively); cows in France (19.3 million head) and sheep (23.0 million head) in the UK. The Irish Cattle and Sheep Association has suggested that enhanced supports for forestry and energy crops such as miscanthus would encourage farmers to move some of their focus out of livestock. The ICSA suggests these improved grants could lead to a 5% reduction in the share of land use devoted to livestock in Ireland. Some hotels served as film locations, such as the Hilton Berlin in Bridge of Spies and Bostons Fairmont Copley Plaza in American Hustle. Others were used to signify other locations, such as Soldens Das Central, which was used to represent the alpine Hoffler Klinik in Spectre. 1. Spectre Gran Ciudad de Mexico (Mexico City) : Bond follows smouldering Estrella (Stephanie Sigman) into an ornate elevator and chamber in the Gran Ciudad de Mexico. 2. The Great Gatsby Plaza Hotel (New York) : The Plaza has featured in a host of movies and was recreated to host one of the most climactic scenes of this film. 3. The Wolf of Wall Street Four Seasons (New York) : Stockbroker Jordan Belford proposes to Naomi in the pool room of the Four Seasons Restaurant near its namesake, the Four Seasons. The most interesting thing about looking out a window is one's view will never be exactly the same #NewYork #view pic.twitter.com/HE1WmtXr3a Four Seasons NY (@FSNewYork) January 6, 2016 4. Bridge of Spies Hilton Berlin : Steven Spielbergs new Cold War drama stars Tom Hanks and uses the hotel in the film, complete with Cold War-era decor. 5. Saving Mr Banks The Langham Pasadena (Los Angeles) : Saving Mr Banks is a 1960s-set period drama set in Hollywood, featuring Tom Hanks as Walt Disney. Filming actually took place at The Langham. 6. Spectre Das Central (Solden, Austria) : Das Central, the resorts only five-star hotel, doubled as the Hoffler Klinik where Dr Madeline Swann is abducted by Mr Hinx, a Spectre assassin. 7. The Intern The Waldorf-Astoria (New York) : Many, many films have been shot there. Workplace comedy The Intern, starring Robert De Niro and Anne Hathaway, became the latest last year. A glimpse into the #suitelife just before check-in time. pic.twitter.com/e5mXP9YtR8 Waldorf Astoria NY (@WaldorfNYC) February 26, 2016 8. X-Men: Days of Future Past W (Washington) : The W made appearances in The Godfather Part II, The Firm, and the most recent X-Men film, X-Men: Days of Future Past. 9. American Hustle The Fairmont Copley Plaza (Boston) : The Fairmont Copley Plaza plays a part when con artists Irving Rosenfeld and Sydney Prosser rejoice over their successes, in the hotel lobby. 10. 12 Years a Slave Columns Hotel (New Orleans) : Solomon Northup is kidnapped in Washington DC, but the scene was actually shot in the heart of New Orleans, at the historic hotel on St Charles Avenue. The baby was airlifted from the scene along with her mother who sustained a serious head injury in the crash. Both were flown to University Hospital Limerick (UHL) but the baby was transferred to a Dublin hospital for specialist treatment. The two-car head-on collision occurred at around 5pm on the Ennis to Kilrush road at Glaun, Lissycasey. There were two males with the mother and baby in one car and just the driver, an elderly woman, in the second vehicle. Fire and ambulance crews from Ennis and Kilrush attended the scene along with several Garda units. Ambulance paramedics requested the Emergency Aeromedical Service air ambulance to airlift the mother and baby to hospital. The departure was signalled by the general secretary of the Catholic Primary Schools Management Association (CPSMA), Fr Tom Deenihan, at its AGM, when he also said it was simply false to assert that a pupil must be baptised to gain entry to a Catholic-run school. The cleric also criticised politicians who make broad statements about schools under Catholic patronage without acknowledging the service those schools provide in their communities, and said school boards should invite local politians to witness at first hand the work being done: It is easy to criticise a notional national concept, it is harder to reject local evidence. Fr Deenihan was addressing about 200 delegates at the CPSMAs AGM in Dublin. He said there are between 11 and 17 schools in Dublin which are over-subscribed, with more families wishing to enrol their children than there are places available. That, in itself, is indicative of something. There is, though, an opportunity here for such schools to cater for the children in their area before catering for those outside the catchment area, regardless of religious affiliation. That is a conversation that will have to take place in the near future and it may be an area where some gesture could be be made. He said inclusion in schools should not just mean religion, but also nationality, ethnicity, socio-economic background, and ability. When these five criteria are taken into consideration, I would challenge anyone to tell me that Catholic primary schools are not as inclusive as any other type of school. The outgoing minister for education, Jan OSullivan, recently abolished Rule 68 and its provision for religious education to take precedence over other subjects in primary schools, but Fr Deenihan said nothing changes with the abolition of Rule 68 with the Churchs catechetical programme, Grow in Love, continuing to be taught for two and a half hours per week. For Catholic schools, religious education is an important manifestation of the schools Catholic ethos. That ethos is decided and defined by the patron, whoever the patron may be, not the minister. In relation to the appointment of teachers and principals, he said teachers in Catholic schools must collaborate with the parish and selection boards must seek a personal commitment, a kindliness and a personal manner that can bear witness to Christ to those in their care and the selection board should always ask for the religious education diploma from a recognised college. Fr Deenihan said there are 23,000 volunteers across the country serving on Catholic schools boards of management: We are becoming tired of being the object of criticism for our politicians who target such schools so regularly that one could be forgiven for thinking that there was no other issue in Irish society, be it economical, health, justice or welfare. Indeed, despite that narrative over the past few years, it was remarkable how little it featured in political manifestos, leader debates and, anecdotally, on the doorsteps with canvassers during the general election campaign. The meeting reconvened on Sunday in Liberty Hall where the five were joined by James Connolly, Eamonn Ceannt, and Tom Clarke. The consensus decision was to proceed with the planned rebellion at noon on the following day. Of that group only Lynch was alive a month later. But who has heard of Diarmuid Lynch? Diarmuids trouble was that he was not executed, was the wry comment of one of Lynchs relatives when asked why he is so notably absent from the prolific literature about the 1916 Easter Rising. Like Pearse, MacDonagh, and others, he was condemned to be shot in the stonebreakers yard at Kilmainham Gaol. He was an American citizen, having spent a decade in the USA before returning to live in Ireland. When news of Lynchs sentence was received by his influential Irish-American friends they persuaded President Woodrow Wilson to intercede with the British Government on behalf of Diarmuid Lynch who was active in the GPO for that momentous week in April. Wilsons intervention may have been a factor in the commuting of his sentence but undoubtedly the revulsion expressed across the world at the executions in Kilmainham was another factor. As a member of the Supreme Council of the Irish Republican Brotherhood (IRB), Lynch was a marked man before Easter 1916. Dublin Castle had dubbed him a dangerous agitator. The detective department of Dublin Castle listed him as one of the Dublin Extremists being watched on a daily basis. For regular updates on news and features (as well as twitter action action as it may have happened 100 years ago) to mark the revolutionary period follow @theirishrev HERE Classed as an enemy alien, he was forbidden to move outside a five mile radius of his Dublin address. It was Lynch who travelled south at the behest of Pearse in 1915 to decide in consultation with Austin Stack and other Kerry Brigade commandants on a suitable landing site for the promised German armaments. During all of Easter Week in the GPO, Lynch was Aide de Camp to James Connolly and a captain of the GPO battalion. His succinct report compiled in 1936/37 gives the briefest description of his activities during that week. Diarmuid Lynch: A Forgotten Irish Patriot, by Eileen McGough (Mercier Press, 2013) (It was Lynch in 1935 who proposed recording the individual experiences of the GPO survivors. At successive meetings of the garrison he co-ordinated and reviewed those reports and with the consensus of all survivors the completed 44 page report was lodged with the National Library. This invaluable document was created a decade before the Bureau of Military History began on a similar task, but naturally many more survivors had died by 1947.) Released in June 1917 from Lewes Prison, Lynch was of the party of Cork ex-prisoners who were greeted by a crowd of 10,000 at Glanmire Road Station. In his address to the crowd at the Grand Parade, he declared: As a Corkman I am glad to return to my native city and to find that it is a rebel Cork, a Republican Cork and an Irish Cork. Historian John Borgonovo observed that Lynch was the most senior IRB leader to survive the Easter Rising. His colleague at UCC school of history Gabriel Doherty says Lynch was an utterly central figure in the 1916 Rising. In the remaining months of 1917 and into 1918 Lynch was centrally engaged with Michael Collins, Harry Boland, Diarmuid Hegarty, Tom Ashe and Fionan Lynch.Their programme was to draw up a new constitution for the IRB, secure positions of influence in Sinn Fein and revamp the Irish Volunteers organisation. With Cathal Brugha and Con Collins, Lynch was back in Cork in January 1918 to conduct an inquiry into the inaction of the Cork Volunteers at Easter 1916. Lynch was appointed Food Controller in the Sinn Fein Executive, a role in which he fulminated against food being exported to feed the British Army when there was food shortage at home. He took his campaign a stage further in February 1918 when, with a band of Volunteers, he kidnapped a herd of 34 pigs as they trotted down the North Circular Road on their way to export. The pigs were slaughtered. The meat was sold to the people of Dublin. The owners were compensated and Diarmuid Lynch was arrested and imprisoned for this defiance of the law. Cathal MacDubhghaill composed a popular ballad to celebrate the daring deed. The Pig Push was sung lustily in the pubs as Lynchs action was much appreciated by the public. In Dundalk Gaol, hearing that he was to be deported to the USA, Lynch decided he would marry his fiancee, Kathleen Quinn of County Kildare so she could join him in America. Permission was refused so an elaborate plan swung into action. Enjoyed this? Then check out our dedicated micro-site, developed in collaboration with UCC, to mark the revolutionary period HERE Kathleen arrived at Dundalk Gaol accompanied by her sister Carmel and Fr Aloysius Travers. They had requested to see not only her fiance, Diarmuid, but also Michael Brennan of Clare and Frank Henderson of the Dublin Volunteers. With Brennan and Henderson as witnesses, the couple married with the priest officiating. The infuriated prison governor immediately set Lynchs deportation in motion. When the train carrying Lynch and two armed detectives reached Amiens Street Station in Dublin, the efficient IRB grapevine ensured that a large crowd of Volunteers was waiting for it. Among those gathered were Michael Collins, Harry Boland and Eamonn de Valera. Boland intimated that the Volunteers were ready to spring the newly married prisoner, but Lynch, fearing chaos and injuries, declined by now the station was thronged with police, soldiers and innocent civilians. Eamonn de Valera With the police and military escort numerically overwhelmed by Volunteers, when Lynch and his escorts were loaded into the Black Maria his fiancee and Michael Collins were allowed travel to the Bridewell with him. de Valera roared as they left the station, Diarmuid you have set a new style in weddings by taking your bride to the Bridewell! It was the last time those three key nationalists, Michael Collins, Eamonn de Valera and Diarmuid Lynch, were together. Eileen McGough is author of Diarmuid Lynch: A Forgotten Irish Patriot (Mercier Press, 2013) Senior sources said that leaders of the gang will consult with criminal associates, including in Britain and Europe, as part of their preparations to kill again. The Hutch gang has its core in Dublins north inner city, but boasts long-established connections with serious gangs abroad. They are also conscious that the larger Kinahan cartel, which boasts affiliated gangs throughout the city, including on the south side, is planning to commit further murders. Garda sources said it is very difficult to predict what form the murders would take given the shocking nature of the Regency Hotel attack and the brazen nature of the retaliation. Three people two on the Hutch side and one from the Kinahan network have so far died. Last September, Gary Hutch was shot dead in Spain at the suspected hand of Kinahan gang members, over a drug dispute. In revenge, in what was a well-planned, although flawed, military-style assault at the Regency Hotel, associates of Gary Hutch shot dead David Byrne, a senior member of the Kinahan gang. * Warning: Some viewers may find this video extremely distressing. Their main intended target was Daniel Kinahan, the elder son of cartel leader Christopher Kinahan, who escaped unharmed. That attack included three men, dressed as gardai, brandishing automatic weapons. In retaliation, just three days later, the Kinahan gang shot dead Edward Hutch, uncle of Gary, at his home in the north inner city. No one could have expected the shocking nature of the Regency attack and no one would have thought the revenge would have been so quick and so brazen, said one senior garda source, so its very difficult to predict what will happen. Another senior source said they believed the Hutchs were preparing for retaliation and would spend time and effort doing so. The big fear is the Hutchs will lash back, he said. They want to, but they wont lash back until they are well prepared to do it. It will be planned, meditated. The garda was rescued when colleagues in a patrol vehicle saw what was happening and went to his aid. The victim is understood to have suffered a stab wound to one of his legs and blacked out from blows to his head. He was taken to hospital and was kept in overnight. The incident began after the garda and a colleague were responding to a report of a stolen car at around 5am yesterday. A Garda spokesman said: During the apprehension of one of the males, a garda was injured, suffering head injuries and leg injuries. He said a number of individuals tried to obstruct the arrest at the Hillview Estate in Ballinteer, south Dublin. Separate sources told the Irish Examiner that when the garda and his colleague originally came upon the suspected stolen vehicle, the two occupants abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot in separate directions. The injured garda pursued one of the occupants to the estate, where he ran up to a house and started banging on the door. Sources said that five men came out and attacked the garda. During the assault, the garda was beaten around the head, losing consciousness, and reportedly stabbed in the leg. A second patrol car came onto the scene and rescued him and arrested two men. The injured garda, stationed at Dundrum Station and thought to be in his early 30s, was brought to St Jamess Hospital. Sources said his injuries turned out not to be serious, but he was kept in for observation. The Garda spokesman confirmed that two men, aged 18 and 20, were arrested for public order and road traffic offences. They are due to appear before Dun Laoghaire District Court next month. To speak of the planning of the Rising may seem a contradiction in terms given that hardly anything that the rebels envisaged actually worked out the way they had originally planned. In fact, the actual Rising was a highly improvised one, cobbled together at a days notice in the crisis meeting of the rebel leaders in Liberty Hall on Easter Sunday. It took place after the publication in that mornings Sunday Independent of Eoin MacNeills countermanding order of the Irish Volunteers manoeuvres which the Irish Republican Brotherhood had planned for that day, Easter Sunday. And that was only the second body blow to the nature of the intended Rising, for the rebel leaders must have already realised that their hopes for a Rising in the south-west and west were in tatters after the capture of the Aud. With its cargo of 20,000 rifles and 10 machine guns, it arrived four days earlier than they expected off the coast of Kerry, and confusion over the signals from shore resulted in it being captured by British warships. The mood can only have been sombre when the leaders gathered in Liberty Hall on Easter Sunday morning to cobble together their response to the implosion of all their plans, so laboriously and ambitiously pursued over the previous year-and-a-half. The countermanding order despatched to Irish Volunteers brigades around the country by chief-of-staff Eoin MacNeill on Easter Saturday, 1916: Volunteers completely deceived. All orders for to-morrow Sunday are entirely cancelled. This copy was sold for 30,000 at Adams Auctioneers in April 2014 And yet there seems to have been no hesitation about proceeding with the revised mini-rising, though inescapably now more a symbolic expression of an ideal than a serious military enterprise, and of which the likeliest result would be their own death. As the Rising was now conceived mainly as a symbolic gesture, it had to be conceived of at least partly as a piece of theatre, as the politics of gesture, however deadly the likely consequences. In one way, it threatened to appear a pathetic anti-climax to all the ambitious planning of the previous 20 months, when the IRB had resolved they must rise during the war. Had the war been over as fast as was widely expected in 1914, it seems highly unlikely they would ever have devised a plan. For regular updates on news and features (as well as twitter action action as it may have happened 100 years ago) to mark the revolutionary period follow @theirishrev HERE Far from the boys being home by Christmas, as was widely anticipated, the German attack on France ground to a rapid halt in the face of dogged French and British resistance. And within less than two months of the German assault, it had deteriorated into trench warfare on the western front, with neither side able to conjure a breakthrough until 1918. Had that not happened, who knows what the course of Irish history might have been? As it was, while the IRB determined shortly after the outbreak of the war on a rebellion before it was over, it would have long been over by the time the IRB had determined on a promising plan, and set about acquiring the guns and ammunition required to mount a serious rebellion. That all depended on Germany supplying enough weapons. There was a certain rough justice in this, in that it was from Germany that the Ulster Volunteer Force had brought its massive supply of guns and ammunition into the north in the Larne gun-running in April 1914. One can only speculate on what the consequences might have been of having been able to carry out the original intentions of the Aud expedition. One can get the impression that the planning of rebellion in an arc from Cork to Galway was so hit-and-miss that it didnt really matter very much whether the Aud landed its cargo of 20,000 rifles about 15 times more than brought in to Howth by the Asgard in July 1914. But that is conjectural, even if it is clear that a good deal of improvisation would still have been involved. And much would still have depended on the British response, which is unknowable. How would the British, by now desperate to drag the USA into the war on their side, have responded? Would they have sought to crush it instantly, doing whatever was necessary to extirpate it and destroying the rebels before the United States, about to face into a presidential election campaign, with President Woodrow Wilson emphatically asserting American neutrality, and not unmindful of the putative Irish vote in the presidential election looming later that year, began to take a closer look at Irish affairs? American papers did in fact report extensively, if often erroneously, on the Rising, with The New York Times, in particular, as Robert Schmuhls research has so carefully demonstrated, carrying extensive news on the Rising and its aftermath. Enjoyed this? Then check out our dedicated micro-site, developed in collaboration with UCC, to mark the revolutionary period HERE Although the series of mishaps on which the more ambitious plans foundered were actually near misses, it is easy to overlook how close they came to success but for a handful of misunderstandings and unpredictable confusions or accidents, as in the case of the Aud. That is not to say that it would have been a success it might just as easily have led to civil war in Ireland, or at least to a variety of internal conflicts. Much might have depended on whether the British were sufficiently concerned to bring troops back from France to crush it and if so which troops, Irish or British, and if Irish, nationalist or unionist, or some mixture? Or, given the Rising as it occurred, might Prime Minister Herbert Asquith have sought a more politically literate British commander than Maxwell if there was one to be found in the circumstances of the time? These questions now belong to surmise, but it is easy to forget that it would have taken only small shifts in what actually happened to have created a potentially quite different Easter Rising, and a potentially different, if unpredictable type of conflict, with incalculable consequence for the future of the country, north and south, in whatever direction. Prof. Joe Lee who spoke at the Diarmuid Whelan memorial lecture at the Aula Maxima in UCC last night Picture: Eddie OHare It is natural that our memories of Easter Week have become so calcified that we tend to contemplate it as foreordained tragedy, doomed by a variety of almost preternatural factors despite all the plotting and planning that went into it. And in the event, that is how it worked itself out. But there was nothing inevitable about much of that. If it had from one perspective redeemed the republican military tradition from the de facto fiascos of 1803, 1848 and 1867, there was nothing pre-ordained about the consequences either, and it required sustained British mishandling of subsequent events, not least the ham-fisted attempt to impose conscription in 1918, for Britain to reap the full political harvest. Joe Lee is Glucksman Professor of Irish Studies at New York University, and was professor of history at University College Cork from 1974 to 2002. His books include Ireland 1912-1985: Politics and Society (1989), now on its 11th reprint. The number of North American visitors grew 13% to 1.3m in the last year, while visitors from mainland Europe were up 14% to 2.84m. Visitors from Britain, Irelands main tourism market, were up by 8% to 3.25m. Speaking on the eve of the Irish Hotels Federations (IHF) annual conference, chief executive Tim Fenn said the hotels sector has benefited from an 11% increase in overseas visitors over the last year, coupled with a strengthening in consumer confidence. Tourism has been the shining light in Irelands economic recovery, and theres a real sense of optimism in the sector following last years strong performance, he said. The upturn in visitor numbers is continuing, which bodes well for the outlook over the next 12 months. The IHF pointed out that more than 33,000 new jobs have been created in the tourism and hospitality sector since 2011. The tourism industry as a whole now supports approximately 205,000 jobs equivalent to 11% of total employment in the country, with more than 57,000 of these jobs in the hotels sector. Some 85% of hoteliers are reporting increased levels of business this year from the home market, with people taking more trips at home and spending more money in the local economy. Mr Fenn said tourists were returning to Ireland as a result of the country now offering better value for money. Were making enormous strides in growing market share thanks to highly effective marketing and a competitively-priced product, he said. This is reflected in recent research by Failte Ireland showing 95% of holidaymakers saying they are satisfied in terms of value for money which is a significant factor. Irish hotels are among the most competitively-priced in Europe, and significantly lower than our key competitors. Mr Fenn said the strong focus on the marketing front has reinvigorated Irelands tourism brand and image as a holiday destination. We continue to make significant strides in developing our tourism product and in giving holidaymakers new and compelling reasons to visit, he said. Examples include the recently launched Irelands Ancient East trail and, of course, the Wild Atlantic Way, which is proving to be an enormous draw. Targeted investment in initiatives such as these is vital to the long-term success of our tourism product. Eight of the nine Kurds who came in on a container off the Cherbourg to Rosslare ferry on Saturday have requested asylum. The ninth was detained under immigration laws, and may face deportation, while the driver of the truck has also been questioned by gardai. The Irish Road Haulage Association said the country is blessed it was not looking at mass deaths on the first day of the election count. The Immigrant Council of Ireland said the incident was the direct result of the EUs failure to honour commitments on resettlement and said the refugees should be provided every possible support. Gardai in Wexford said they received a 999 call from someone claiming there were people in the back of some type of truck. Gardai responded immediately. We tracked it via the phone and located the truck at a depot in New Ross. They were inside a refrigerated truck unit, but not a deep freeze one, said a garda source. Brian Killoran, the ICI chief executive It is understood gardai and the HSE scrambled an emergency response plan and up to five ambulances and a heli-ambulance were on standby. The nine people were taken to University Hospital Waterford but were all fit and well. Gardai judged by the documentation the migrants showed them that they were Kurdish. They are all aged in their 20s. Eight of them requested asylum, while the detention of the ninth was for immigration offences. It is thought this may be because he had no documentation papers. He faces being deported. The eight others were brought to an asylum reception centre. The driver of the truck is being questioned and gardai are examining at what stage he took charge of the container and what checks he made. Verona Murphy, president of the IRHA, said the driver may have only picked the container up from the ferry at Rosslare and that the doors could already have been sealed. She said there were health and safety issues for drivers opening seals in case they came across migrants who were possibly aggressive or even armed. She was highly critical of authorities in France, claiming they were not detecting migrants inside containers. Ms Murphy said the IRHA was assisting Irish drivers who were subsequently stopped by British authorities after detecting migrants on board, and prosecuted for human trafficking. Ms Murphy added: We are blessed we are not dealing with mass deaths. Brian Killoran, the ICI chief executive, said the plight of the refugees highlighted the fact that EU governments, including our own, have not honoured their commitments to offer protection, help, and support to those fleeing war and conflict. He said the first priority should be to ensure those found were treated with humanity. The words pictured here are the first section of a long note he wrote on a fragment of paper bag two days after his court martial on May 19, 1916. He had previously got five other despatches out from Richmond Barracks, where he was initially held before being identified and court-martialled. It is one of many such documents in the possession of Brid Duggan, daughter of the recipients Diarmuids half-brother Denis Lynch, a distillery manager in Dublin, and his wife Alice. As well as his own situation, Lynch refers to his brother Michael, or Mick, who had been active in the Irish Volunteers in their native Tracton near Kinsale, Co Cork. On Easter Sunday, 1916, he travelled Co Cork on a motorcycle whose sidecar was laden with explosives, fuse coils and detonators, hand grenades, while armed himself with a rifle and two revolvers. He too was an active IRB member, and was in charge of the group of Volunteers amassed in Bweeng, between Blarney and Mallow until Cork Brigade commander Tomas MacCurtains ordered that the mobilisation be cancelled. A note on piece of brown paper bag, written by Diarmuid Lynch in Kilmainham on Sunday May 21, 1916, and was smuggled out Another man mentioned in Diarmuid Lynchs letter is Dublin councilor William Partridge, who had been up and down to Kerry to organise the intended landing of German guns over Easter weekend at Fenit. The location was identified by Lynch to the IRB in 1915 as the most suitable place for the landing. On one side of the paper bag, a note was added by Lynch: Dont let it be known that you got a note from me under this date! Diarmuid Lynch: An Fear Dearmadta de 1916, a half-hour documentary on his life will be aired on TG4 on Easter Monday, March 28, at 7.30pm. *** Kilmainham Sunday May 21.16. My dear Denis and Alice, I dare say you know of the visit I had here of Mary and Nora. I got my sentence last night, perhaps it is in todays papers death commuted to 10 years. I expected something like that from the attitude of the Court at my trial. I requested that the American Consul should be present thereat, but they would not wait. They sent for him and allowed him to look over the summary of the evidence as made out by the presiding officer.I did not attempt to deny the main point against me that I held the rank of captain in the GPO. Lieut EL King, whom I released from the cellar when they were in great danger from fire and explosions, was the only witness produced to show that I participated actively in the fight. I rubbed in that fact, but told them I asked for no leniency because of it and did not make it on personal grounds. Enjoyed this? Then check out our dedicated micro-site, developed in collaboration with UCC, to mark the revolutionary period HERE Partridge T.C. got 15 years (less five) though little or nothing was proved against him. Colm OGaora of Cong Co Mayo got 15, less 5, though he had no part in the fight. Simply because when arrested at his home a week after we started in Dublin he had a revolver in his possession and on the oath of two policemen, the charge was made that he attempted to shoot the sergeant which he claims to be an absolute falsehood. Oh well, thank God, all this will have no effect. The consul asked me if he could do anything for me and I said NO. Now, however, he can do something if he will. My friends in America will put up a fight when they get details. Anyway Im game even if I have to put in the full time. I m sure Tim will be home soon. As for Mick, I dare say they will trump up some special charge against him and give him some time in gaol. Let him get a solicitor. I refused to get any ? I knew it would be no use. In fact if I had said nothing in court, it may have been better for me, though I suppose they would have had their pound of flesh. I believe I go to Mountjoy from here and then to somewhere in.....? (Diarmuids question mark). Had I expected to be here so long I would have sent for clean underclothes. I gave some of the tablets to Mick and left .....? in my room at Richmond so must depend on the doctor. Hope D(Denis) got my letter ----? at Ship Street. The 1 Alice gave me is now held here in Kilmainham. Lynch signed off with a note about his possessions: They have 1 and my pipe. Love to you both, Slan libh, Diarmuid. ****** The man who pioneered 1916 participants' testimony Diarmuid Lynch's 1937 Easter Week questionnaire Diarmuid Lynchs succinct report, compiled in 1936/37, gives the briefest description of his activities during Easter Week of 1916. It was Lynch who, in 1935, proposed recording the experiences of the GPO survivors. He coordinated and reviewed those reports and, with the consensus of all survivors, the completed, 44-page report was lodged with the National Library of Ireland. This invaluable document was created a decade before the Bureau of Military History began a similar task, in 1947, but more survivors had died by then. For regular updates on news and features (as well as twitter action action as it may have happened 100 years ago) to mark the revolutionary period follow @theirishrev HERE Kelly was a veteran of stage and screen for 60 years, including appearances on RTEs satirical show Halls Pictorial Weekly and as Father Jack Hackett on the Channel 4 sitcom from 1995 to 1998. Kelly passed away exactly 18 years after the death of his Father Ted co-star Dermot Morgan, who also died on a Sunday. Dermot Morgans son, Don Morgan, remarked on the coincidence in a tweet. Isnt life just weird? Frank Kelly going on dads anniversary, he wrote. Dermot Morgan Graham Linehan, the writer of Father Ted, paid tribute to the actor: Just hearing from various sources that Frank Kelly has passed away, he tweeted. Terribly sad news. Thanks for everything Frank. Brendan OCarroll, who co-starred with Kelly in Mrs Browns Boys DMovie, also responded on Twitter: News of Frank Kellys passing just reached us in Australia. Such a lovely man and a joy to work with, he wrote. Kelly starred in the popular RTE childrens programme Wanderly Wagon alongside Eugene Lambert and Nora OMahoney from 1968 to 1982, playing a number of characters and writing many of the scripts. It was Kellys work on Halls Pictorial Weekly (19701982) which established him as a household name in Ireland. He memorably portrayed councillor Parnell Mooney, a send-up of a backwoods local authority councillor in rural Ireland. He won a Jacobs Award in 1974 for his role in the series. A diverse actor with many talents, he scored a No 8 hit in Ireland and a No 26 hit in the UK in December 1983 with A Christmas Countdown, a comedy version of The 12 Days of Christmas. He also appeared in RTE soap Glenroe between 1999 and 2001 and later spent five months on the cast of ITVs Emmerdale. In 2014, he appeared as the judge in Mrs Browns Boys DMovie. Last November, Kelly revealed that he had been diagnosed with Parkinsons disease, but said he was determined to live life to the full despite the condition. Ive been working as an actor for over 50 years, and a shaky hand certainly wont stop me. I remain open to offers for work on stage and screen. Im quite available and my mobile is always on, he said at the time. Kelly had received the all-clear from bowel cancer in 2011. He was treated for skin cancer last year and also had heart problems. His Parkinsons diagnosis was confirmed after he was admitted to hospital in 2015 for heart failure. It was my first diagnosis, but Im quietly confident that Ive had this for years and years, he told the Irish Sun last October, explaining that he had lived with a shake in his right hand for a long time. Frank Kelly (right) as Father Jack with the Father Ted cast. Kelly said the Parkinsons symptoms increased after diagnosis but then abated. But if you are watching what you are doing, you can control it. It doesnt interfere with your work; it doesnt interfere with anything. You might have heard of the American actor Michael J Fox, who was diagnosed with Parkinsons 22 years ago and is still working today. Im the same. Noel Curran, director general of RTE, paid his own tribute: Frank Kelly was an Irish television institution whose career spanned decades and, in later years, countries. He was a versatile writer, satirist, performer, and actor, and became a household name to loyal audiences. I would like to extend my sincere sympathies on behalf of RTE to his wife Bairbre, his seven children, and 17 grandchildren. Australian and New Zealand scientists have recorded a 90% decline in the numbers breeding at Cape Dennison in Commonwealth Bay. Writing in the journal Antarctic Science, they warn that the colony could disappear completely within 20 years unless the berg disintegrates or moves on. The demise, they say, has important implications for wider east Antarctica if the current increasing sea-ice trend continues. The bay used to be free of sea-ice, making it an ideal place for penguins to nest. Then, in December 2010, disaster struck. A giant iceberg, which had calved 15 years previously, ran aground in the bay and has remained stuck there ever since. Ice would normally be swept out to sea but now the 3,000km2 berg blocks the flow, leading to a build-up 3m thick. Adelie penguins need bare land with small stones to build their nests. They must also have ready access to the sea. Open water used to be within 3km of their colony but now the birds must waddle 60km, each way, to find food. Exhausted adults and chicks, heading for the sea, collapse en route and die. Thanks to Jules Dumont dUrville, we can admire the Venus de Milo in the Louvre. This polymath naval officer persuaded Frances ambassador to Turkey to buy the fragmented statue. Explorers, such as Shackleton and Tom Creen, were hard men but DUrville had a softer side. In 1822, during a scientific mission to the South Seas, he discovered a new species of penguin. Homesick and pining for his wife, Adelie, back in France, he named the bird after her. A slice of Antarctica, stretching from the east coast of the continent to the South Pole and claimed by him for France in 1840, is still known as Adelie Land. DUrvilles mother considered Adelie, the daughter of a clockmaker, unworthy of her son and refused to meet her or the grandchildren. Did the lovesick adventurer immortalise his wifes name to spite his snobbish mother? The medium-sized penguin, clad in evening dress and with a white ring around the eye, is one of the most southerly breeding birds in the world. They are extraordinarily like children, these little people of the Antarctic, or like old men, full of their own importance wrote Cherry-Garrard in The Worst Journey in the World, his memoir of Robert Falcon Scotts tragic polar expedition. Four million pairs of Adelies breed at 250 sites in Antarctica. Colonies can have hundreds of thousands of nests. During the 1970s, scientists noticed that penguin numbers were declining in the Antarctic Peninsula, the spur of land jutting from the frozen continent towards South America. Sea temperatures there were rising. The poles are warming much more rapidly than other parts of the world. Adelies, especially vulnerable to climate change, face an uncertain future. According to some newspaper reports, blockage by the iceberg, the size of Rome, has killed the missing penguins of Cape Dennison. Only 10,000 are said to have survived. Not all experts agree, however. When a similar incident occurred in the Ross Sea in 2001, the birds simply moved to another location. CBS News quotes Michelle La Rue, a penguin expert from the University of Minnesota; Just because there are a lot fewer birds observed doesnt automatically mean that the ones that were there before have perished. They easily could have moved elsewhere, which would make sense if nearby colonies are thriving, she said. Corpses of adults and chicks lie strewn along the route to the sea but there arent 150,000 of them. Nothing decomposes in the worlds great southern freezer; penguin colonies can have carcasses scattered about for years. AFTER Thomas Kent was executed by a firing squad on May 9, 1916, in the Cork Military Detention Barracks (now Cork Prison) yard, he was buried in a shallow grave, which was apparently marked correctly. This was only confirmed last year, following decades of speculation, including Dail questioning. Since shortly after his execution, his family had sought that his body be brought home for re-interment, beside his brothers at the Castlelyons family grave: the well-kept grave, in the prison yard, was only available to family and friends on a once-a-year basis. The fourth child of a family of nine children, Thomas Kent was a true patriot. His parents, Mary Rice and David Kent, were tenant farmers, born before the Famine. Thomas, like all family members, was given the second name of Rice. From an early age, Thomas Rice Kent had knowledge of what his ancestors had endured. He was steeped in the Fenian and IRB tradition, and knew what had occurred. His fathers cousin, David Kent, took part in Lomasneys regiment in the Cork 1867 Rising. Later, Thomas became acquainted with the activities of cousin, John Curtin Kent, as he followed closely his involvement with ODonovan Rossa, Tom Clarke, and others in the London dynamite campaign. Curtin Kents torture, and endurance of twelve years of solitary confinement in English prisons, had a lasting effect on Thomas, and helped him later during his own struggles in gaol. Thomas was only 10 when his father died, his eldest brother, James, was only 16, Edmond was 14, and his youngest brother, Richard, was barely a year old. For regular updates on news and features (as well as twitter action action as it may have happened 100 years ago) to mark the revolutionary period follow @theirishrev HERE Life in rural east Cork, in the late 1870s and over the decades ahead, was difficult for his widowed mother, Mary, and her family. But she was a strong, resourceful, extremely nationalistic woman, and was helped by a cooperative family, who believed, as the years progressed, that every effort counted. Thomas was intelligent, agile, and loved his native language, as did all of the Kents, who were bilingual. The first of his family to emigrate, Thomas, though only 17, left Ireland in April, 1883, for Boston, and lived initially with a family relative, Thomas Noonan, who ran a successful publishing, book-binding, printing and church-furnishing business. There, young Thomas got employment as a clerk. Once he joined the Irish Philo-Celtic Society, his social life changed. He got deeply involved in cultural activities. His love of the Irish language aided his interaction with fellow members, whom he helped in the formation of an Irish school. This became extremely successful and helped promote, for most participants, a love of their native land. Throughout his years in Boston, he studied Irish history, and learned how the Irish were treated by English- run governments in Ireland. He began to write about these events in the Boston Irish Echo. Thomas was later joined by his brother, James, then David, and his younger brother, John. Through his studying, listening, reading and writing, he understood what the people of Ireland needed. Throughout his years in Boston, and via family contacts in Ireland, he became more patriotic. His return home, in autumn, 1889, was sudden, due to the impending trial of his brothers, Edmond, David, William and Richard, along with a local priest and neighbours, charged with orchestrating a boycotting campaign. His predicament, as to whether to return to Boston and to his newly founded business, was not easy, as he became more deeply involved with his brothers and the decision to help his evicted neighbours. Influences such as the Mitchelstown Massacre and the premature death of a friend, the activist, James Mansfield, were factors in his decisions. The Kent brothers, working as a team, unremittingly sought justice for the rural communities of north and east Cork tenants who lived in appalling conditions and fought desperately against tyrannical landlordism. Their campaign was difficult, but Thomas and his community were relentless. For the plight of others, he and his brothers spent many lonely nights in gaols. Cultural movements, such as the Gaelic League and the Irish Revival, wove into his activities. His involvement in the Irish Volunteers, upon its foundation, came from a deep understanding and love of Ireland. As commandant of the Galtee Brigade in north and east Cork, he worked tirelessly with his brother, David, Terence MacSwiney, and other organisers. Enjoyed this? Then check out our dedicated micro-site, developed in collaboration with UCC, to mark the revolutionary period HERE The Ulster Volunteers threat to defeat Home Rule was the catalyst that got Thomas and his brothers to participate in the manoeuvres leading to the Easter Rising in 1916. Writing, especially poetry, was one of Thomass talents. Sadly, few poems survived, due to the shoot-out in the Kent home before his arrest. His patriotic spirit shines through in the following lines from a poem he wrote during Easter week: Let him who feels shame for his ancestors story Begone from our pathway let ours be the glory, Well conquer or die, as our fathers of old Have died for the land of the Green and the Gold. Meda Ryan is author of Thomas Kent, published today as one of the final two in the OBrien Press 16 Lives series of biographies of the men executed in 1916. Every four years, we add a day to the year to synchronise our calendar with the Earths revolution around the sun because, as climate activist and Canadian author, Naomi Klein, says its easier to change our human systems than to change the laws of nature. The same can be said with respect to addressing climate change. While removing our dependence on fossil fuels such as coal, oil, peat, and gas is an enormous societal challenge, it is still easier and cheaper than addressing the horrendous impacts of climate change later down the road. Thats why, as part of leap day this year, groups around the world are holding events to push for a justice-based transition away from fossil fuels and towards new economic and energy systems. In more than 20 countries, there are teach-ins, film screenings, community forums, and mobilisations happening to make 2016 a true leap year for the climate justice movement. This leap day movement began in Canada last September driven by Naomi Klein and a number of Canadian celebrities actors Donald Sutherland and Rachel McAdams and musicians Neil Young, Leonard Cohen, and Alanis Morissette. Canadas reputation for climate action is one of the worst in the world, placed among the top 10 global emitters of greenhouse gases with per capita emissions of 20 tonnes of carbon dioxide annually slightly higher than Irelands own per capita emissions of 17 tonnes per annum. Extraction of Canadas lucrative oil sands (a mixture of sand, clay, water, and bitumen) are the leading cause of their increasing greenhouse gas emission. So it wasnt surprising when Klein launched the Leap Manifesto last September, calling Canadas record on climate change a crime against humanitys future and urging for a rapid shift to a fully sustainable energy economy over the next two decades, it was met with harsh criticism within Canadas corporate press, which claimed the manifesto advocated the overthrow of capitalism and would crash the Canadian economy. In reality, the Leap Manifesto was simply a science-based, independent political platform to address climate change and social rights through a transition to a renewable energy-based economy. Its simple, all-inclusive approach attracted the approval of more than 33,000 Canadian citizens, including endorsement by more than 100 Canadian organisations. Irelands equivalent of the Leap Manifesto, Post-Carbon Ireland, was launched just before the election. In an unprecedented effort by 29 academics from across the Irish universities, it called for one key action all political parties could support: the immediate establishment of a Citizens Convention for a Post-Carbon Ireland. The convention would enable the sustained, citizen-led engagement to unite all of society in planning and creating a just, managed, transition to a secure, flourishing, and authentically sustainable post-carbon world. Within weeks of its launch, the convention garnered support from more than 600 signatories and received unconditional support from People Before Profit and the Green Party and equivocal support from Sinn Fein, Fianna Fail, Labour, People Before Profit, and Fine Gael. The overwhelming scientific evidence demonstrating on impacts of climate change and the historic UN Paris Climate Agreement soon to be ratified by nearly 200nations mean climate change can no longer be ignored. To avoid a planetary emergency, we must keep 80% of our known fossil fuel reserves in the ground and commit to no longer exploring for any more oil or gas. We must become a fossil-fuel free society by 2050, little over three decades away. To achieve this in Ireland, we have only a short window of time left to make the decisions in our transport, energy and agricultural sectors necessary for such a dramatic transition. That means that our 32nd Dail has some significant decisions to make in the next five years to transition to a low-carbon society, and it must involve Irish citizens in those decisions to guarantee success. The challenge of achieving the low-carbon transition remained marginal to political debates throughout the 2016 general election campaign, further underlining the importance of the call for a citizens convention to raise public awareness of the issue and to generate momentum for policies to address the immense challenge of reducing Irelands greenhouse gas emissions at the scale and speed necessary under the Paris Climate Agreement. Now, as a new government is formed, we anxiously await the formation of this citizens convention to join the leap away from fossil fuels and toward a Post-Carbon Ireland. To join the call for a Citizens Convention toward a Post-Carbon Ireland, see www.postcarbonireland.org. For more on the Leap Manifesto, see www.leapmanifesto.org and www.CaraAugustenborg.com I would wager that I have been chancellor of more universities than anyone alive today. This is partly because when I was governor of Hong Kong, I was made chancellor of every university in the city. I protested that it would surely be better for the universities to choose their own constitutional heads. But the universities would not allow me to resign gracefully. So for five years I enjoyed the experience of giving tens of thousands of students their degrees and watching what this rite of passage meant for them and their families. When I came back to Britain in 1997, I was asked to become chancellor of Newcastle University. Then, in 2003, I was elected chancellor by the graduates of Oxford University, one of the worlds greatest institutions of learning. So it should not be surprising that I have strong views about what it means to be a university and to teach, research, or study at one. Universities should be bastions of freedom in any society. They should be free from government interference in their primary purposes of research and teaching; and they should control their own academic governance. I do not believe it is possible for a university to become or remain a world-class institution if these conditions do not exist. The role of a university is to promote the clash of ideas, to test the results of research with other scholars, and to impart new knowledge to students. Freedom of speech is thus fundamental to what universities are, enabling them to sustain a sense of common humanity and uphold the mutual tolerance and understanding that underpin any free society. That, of course, makes universities dangerous to authoritarian governments, which seek to stifle the ability to raise and attempt to answer difficult questions. But if any denial of academic liberty is a blow struck against the meaning of a university, the irony today is that some of the most worrying attacks on these values have been coming from inside universities. In the US and the UK, some students and teachers now seek to constrain argument and debate. They contend that people should not be exposed to ideas with which they strongly disagree. Moreover, they argue that history should be rewritten to expunge the names (though not the endowments) of those who fail to pass todays tests of political correctness. Thomas Jefferson and Cecil Rhodes, among others, have been targeted. And how would Winston Churchill and George Washington fare if the same tests were applied to them? Some people are being denied the chance to speak as well so-called no platforming, in the awful jargon of some clearly not very literate campuses. There are calls for safe spaces where students can be protected from anything that assaults their sense of what is moral and appropriate. This reflects and inevitably nurtures a harmful politics of victimisation defining ones own identity (and thus ones interests) in opposition to others. When I was a student 50 years ago, my principal teacher was a leading Marxist historian and a former member of the Communist Party. The British security services were deeply suspicious of him. He was a great historian and teacher, but these days I might be encouraged to think that he had threatened my safe space. In fact, he made me a great deal better informed, more open to discussion of ideas that challenged my own, more capable of distinguishing between an argument and a quarrel, and more prepared to think for myself. Of course, some ideas incitement of racial hatred, gender hostility, or political violence are anathema in every free society. Liberty requires some limits (decided freely by democratic argument under the rule of law) in order to exist. Universities should be trusted to exercise that control themselves. But intolerance of debate, of discussion, and of particular branches of scholarship should never be tolerated. As the great political philosopher Karl Popper taught us, the only thing we should be intolerant of is intolerance itself. That is especially true at universities. Yet some American and British academics and students are themselves undermining freedom; paradoxically, they have the liberty to do so. Meanwhile, universities in China and Hong Kong are faced with threats to their autonomy and freedom, not from within, but from an authoritarian government. In Hong Kong, the autonomy of universities and free speech itself, guaranteed in the citys Basic Law and the 50-year treaty between Britain and China on the citys status, are under threat. The rationale seems to be that, because students strongly supported the pro-democracy protests in 2014, the universities where they study should be brought to heel. So the citys government blunders away, stirring up trouble, clearly on the orders of the government in Beijing. Indeed, the Chinese authorities only recently showed what they think of treaty obligations and of the golden age of Sino-British relations (much advertised by British ministers), by abducting a British citizen (and four other Hong Kong residents) on the citys streets. The five were publishing books that exposed some of the dirty secrets of Chinas leaders. On the mainland, the Chinese Communist Party has launched the biggest crackdown on universities since the aftermath of the killings in Tiananmen Square in 1989. There is to be no discussion of so-called Western values in Chinas universities. Only Marxism can be taught. Did no one tell Chinese president Xi Jinping and his politburo colleagues where Karl Marx came from? The trouble these days is that they know little about Marx but a lot about Lenin. Westerners should take a closer interest in what is happening in Chinas universities and what that tells us about the real values underpinning scholarship, teaching, and the academy. Compare and contrast, as students are asked to do. Do you want universities where the government decides what it is allegedly safe for you to learn and discuss? Or do you want universities that regard the idea of a safe space closing down debate in case it offends someone as an oxymoron in an academic setting? Western students should think occasionally about their counterparts in Hong Kong and China, who must fight for freedoms that they take for granted and too often abuse. Forgive my Russell Brand levels of disillusion. My head is full of a different set of overlords the ones who just gave the go-ahead for the bulldozing of a shantytown that exists on top of an abandoned rubbish dump a few miles outside the centre of Frances least lovely town. 87 miles from my front door. When the Calais prefecture told refugees they could settle undisturbed on this rubbish tip, thats exactly what happened. The people who came were mostly from Syria, Iraq, Afghanistan, Somalia and Eritrea. They were homesick and traumatised, and hoping to reach the UK where many have families. You know the story. The port of Calais became a dystopian fortress of razor wire and riot police, and so the Jungle as its inhabitants named the scrubby patch of ground on which they pitched their tents became a bottleneck of tear gas and desperation. PRESENCE, profile, facetime, peer recognition, empathy, and internationally recognised awards all help to make an entity as successful as it might be. This week an unprecedented seven nominations with Irish connections run the Oscars gauntlet in Los Angles. This means that the Irish Film Board, despite greatly reduced resources, will be better represented at the awards ceremony, which will be watched by millions around the world, than either Paramount or Universal Studios. The agreement is the first of its kind to be attempted in four years and, if it holds, would be the most successful truce of the war. Under the accord accepted by Syrian president Bashar al-Assads government and many of his foes, fighting should cease so aid can reach civilians and talks can open to end a war that has killed more than 250,000 people and made 11m homeless. The head of the Russian co-ordination centre in Syria Sergei Kuralenko said the plan was holding in general but said there had been nine violations of the truce in the past 24 hours. Insurgents and the Syrian Observatory for Human Rightssaid war planes struck at least six towns and villages in west and north Aleppo and a village in the central Hama province. The opposition accused Russia of carrying out the strikes and said it would complain to the UN and countries backing the peace process but said it remained committed to the truce. The decision is to remain quiet, not to do anything, and I believe they will stick to the truce, Syrias opposition spokesman Salim al-Muslat said. Yesterday was the first day people can really go out and walk in the streets. A Syrian military source said on Saturday the army was not violating the truce. Russias defence ministry declined to comment. The deal, which was not directly signed by the Syrian warring sides, does not cover assaults on militants from Islamic State or the Nusra Front, an al Qaeda affiliate that called for an escalation of attacks on Friday. Mr Muslat, spokesman for the oppositions High Negotiating Committee, said it was waiting for answers about how the cessation of hostilities in Syria was being monitored, particularly since there was no map with a common understanding of the location of various fighting groups. This really worries us because we dont know how to deal with any violations and what are the areas that should not be targeted, he said. Officers received a call at around 5.50pm on Saturday in Woodbridge, just outside Alexandria, Virginia, about a verbal argument, said Sergeant Jonathan Perok of Prince William County police. He said a military serviceman was in custody and facing a capital murder charge. Police sources said that the suicide bombers were riding motorcycles and blew themselves up in a crowded mobile phone market in Sadr City, wounding more than 100 people in addition to the dead. A witness saw pools of blood on the ground with slippers, shoes, and mobile phones at the site of the blasts, which was sealed off to prevent further attacks. Burma Arakan Army Official Acknowledges Recent Weapons Seizures A spokesperson acknowledged Monday that weapons recently seized in Rangoon and in Arakan State belonged to the group, but denied allegations tied to drugs. RANGOON A spokesperson for the Arakan Army on Monday acknowledged that weapons recently seized by authorities in Rangoon and in Arakan State belonged to the armed group, but denied allegations of involvement in narcotics. On Monday, state-owned newspaper The Global New Light of Myanmar ran a front page story detailing recent weapons seizures that followed the arrest of two men, Aung Myat Kyaw and Wai Tha Tun, the former of whom was described as a lieutenant colonel in the Arakan Army. The article detailed guns, explosives, ammunition and other military equipment that were confiscated from two separate houses connected to the two men in Rangoon Divisions North Dagon and Hlaing Tharyar townships. Six RPG launchers, detonators and explosive materials were also confiscated from a building allegedly belonging to the Arakan Army in Ramree Township, Arakan State, according to the article. Arakan Army spokesperson Khine Thu Kha on Monday acknowledged that both men, now detained, were Arakan Army operatives. He described the weapons seizures as minor and claimed that the Arakan Army had the full support of all Arakanese. However, Khine Thu Kha described allegations related to the confiscation of narcotics as false and made intentionally to damage the dignity of the Arakan Army and sow mistrust between the armed group and Arakanese citizens. Police allegedly confiscated 330,800 stimulant tablets from a residence belonging to Wai Tha Tun in Rangoon Divisions North Okkalapa, Mondays article stated. Since conflict between the Burma Army and the Arakan armed group broke out in Kyauktaw Township in the western state in late December, state media has carried several critical reports of the ethnic armed force which the government refused to recognize during negotiations toward the so-called nationwide ceasefire agreement. In January, the New Light reported the Burma Armys intention to remove the ethnic armed group from Arakan State and accused it of attempting to ally with insurgent groups in unspecified other countries. In the most recent skirmish, the Arakan Army clashed with government troops on Saturday in Buthidaung Township, according to a statement released by the ethnic armed group. Burma Citing Lack of Protection, Anti-Poppy Activists Return Home Pat Jasan has called off their immediate plans to destroy poppy in Kachin States Waingmaw Township after a clash with armed assailants last week. Burma Clashes Reported Between Govt Troops, TNLA in Namhsan Township Fighting broke out in Shan States Namhsan Township on Sunday between the Burma Army and the Taang National Liberation Army, according to the latter group. RANGOON Fighting broke out in Namhsan Township, northern Shan State, on Sunday between the Burma Army and the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA), according to the latter group. Last week, the TNLA reported that hundreds of Burma Army troops had been deployed to areas of northern Shan State where the Taang armed force operates. On Sunday, two separate clashes were reported in the Namhsan area, with the TNLA claiming five Burma Army soldiers were killed. One clash broke out in the morning for one hour and the second clash at noon, said a report from the armed group, which did not cite casualties on the TNLA side. Fierce fighting took place between the TNLA and the Shan State Army-South (SSA-S) earlier this month in Kyaukme and Namkham townships, leaving upwards of 4,000 civilians displaced. Clashes first broke out last November, one month after eight armed groups signed the so-called nationwide ceasefire agreement with the central government. The SSA-S was among the signatories while the TNLA was sidelined by Naypyidaw from the negotiations. Fresh fighting between the two sides broke out in Kyaukme Township on Monday, according to the TNLA. The Burma Army has reportedly called on both sides to return to their designated territories, with an article in the state-run Global New Light of Myanmar on Feb. 24, quoting the defense ministry, asserting that army operations were underway in Shan State. Burma Army troops have been operating across several townships in northern Shan State, according to the TNLAs general secretary Tar Bong Kyaw, including Kyaukme, Kutkai, Namtu, Manton, Namhsan and Mongmit townships. The TNLA has repeatedly accused the SSA-S of cooperating with the Burma Armyallegations refuted by the Shan force. They helped the RCSS to fight us, said Tar Bong Kyaw, referring to the SSA-S by their political wing, the Restoration Council of Shan State (RCSS). But when a lot of fighting broke out and many people had to leave from the area, [government] troops came into our area claiming to maintain peace. There is a political transition in our country and we will try to avoid fighting as much as we can, he added. Burma KNU Responds to Backlash on Hydropower Project The Karen National Union says it will ensure local communities are involved in decision-making on a controversial Pegu Division hydropower dam project. After receiving criticism for signing a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on a hydropower dam project, the Karen National Union (KNU) released a statement saying that it will ensure local communities are involved in decision-making and benefit sharing. The statement, published by the KNU on Friday, declared that the groups business body, Thoolei Company Limited, will not ignore opinions of local communities and engage in activities that might lead to human rights violations. The group also promised to undertake a feasibility study of international standard which would measure the projects social and environmental impact. The statement came after the KNU company faced a local backlash after signing an MoU on the Baw Ka Hta River hydropower project with the Burmese government on February 18 in Naypyidaw. Critics, including Karen environmentalists, said the MoU was signed without proper assessments of the dams consequences and with a lack of consultation with affected civilians in Kyaukkyi Township, Pegu Division. The KNU responded by stating that the agreement was not for the realization of the Baw Ka Hta dam, as was reported by some sources, but for a project feasibility study report that will reportedly last for a period of 24 months. Progress on the hydropower project will also depend on the success of the ongoing peace process between the KNU and the Burmese government, the statement said. The KNU was one of eight ethnic armed groups to sign a so-called nationwide ceasefire agreement with the government in 2015. The KNUs central economic committee will undertake a field study with 14 district and central level leaders to address economic challenges that might be faced due to the influx of business operations during the current ceasefire. If completed, the Baw Ka Hta dam would have the capacity to produce 160 megawatts of electricity, which would reportedly be distributed throughout Pegu Division and Karen State. Yet local Karen villagers around the dam site fear that it will lead to a loss of their land. They have compared the project to Pegu Divisions Shwegyin Dam, built on the river of the same name, where 45 villages were forcibly relocated from 2002 until 2011, when the dam was completed. Burma NLD Questions on Privatization Disgrace Govt: Information Minister Information minister Ye Htut says that an MPs proposal to examine rapid privatization of state-owned land intends to point fingers at officials. RANGOONBurmas information minister Ye Htut has said that a National League for Democracy (NLD) MPs proposal to examine the rapid privatization of state-owned land disgraced the existing government. Frankly speaking, we think that pointing fingers at the predecessors, without thinking about what they should do in the future, will bring nothing but displeasure with one another, Ye Htut said. He said that the Parliament should draw upon lessons from the previous term and then focus on matters related to the new government, which will take office in early April. NLD MP Khin San Hlaing submitted an urgent proposal to the Lower House of Parliament on Thursday calling on the outgoing government to scrutinize permissions given to sell or lease state-owned facilities and projects to private companies. She also criticized the forced removal of squatters on land affected by such transactions. Government officials did not appear before Parliament though they were invited to respond to the allegations. On Friday, shortly after Lower House MPs voted to approve the proposal, the information ministry announced the suspension of 68 projects, including unfinished buildings and factories. Ye Htut told The Irrawaddy that officials attendance in Parliament would be decided on a case-by-case basis. It will depend on the case. We will discuss the cases which are in the national interest. But for some cases, like that of Daw Khin San Hlaings proposal, they can ask the transition committee which was formed to oversee the power transfer, said Ye Htut. But they didnt ask and talk [about it] at the Parliament, so it seems they acted to disgrace the existing government, he added. Ye Htut told The Irrawaddy on Friday that each ministry had planned to announce and transfer suspended projects to the next government at the end of this month. However, Khin San Hlaings proposal, which he claimed included false information, pushed the officials to release the list earlier. We have nothing to hide. We are already prepared to hand over systematically to the next government, he said. Critics have said that officials absence in Parliament demonstrated disrespect to the legislature and the voting populace. Khin San Hlaing told lawmakers during Fridays parliamentary session that the proposal was not intended to create misunderstanding but to give responsible officials a chance to explain the issue of privatization from their own point of view. Burma Outgoing Govt to Leave Unfinished Business for NLD The government has put 68 controversial projects on hold following a Lower House motion calling for greater scrutiny of the sale of state assets. RANGOON Burmas outgoing government has put 68 controversial projects on hold, the information ministry announced on Friday, the same day as Lower House MPs voted to approve a motion calling for greater scrutiny of the sale of state properties and other assets during the transition period. The suspended projects include a coal-fired power plant in Tenasserim Divisions Myeik Township, a hazardous chemical treatment plant in Rangoon Divisions Hmawbi Township and a special economic zone planned for Shan State. Other projects include unfinished buildings and factories contracted to private firms, sites reportedly linked to allegations of land grabbing, and issues over build-operate-transfer agreements. The Ministry of Informations announcement was issued shortly after lawmakers in the Lower House of Parliament on Friday discussed and approved a proposal tabled by the National League for Democracy (NLD)s Khin San Hlaing urging authorities to review permissions to sell or lease state-owned factories, facilities and projects before a new government takes power on April 1. The proposal also included for discussion the plight of squatters after large-scale evictions were carried out in Rangoon last month. Thein Nyunt, a former Lower House lawmaker and chairman of the New National Democracy Party, said there are many projects that government ministries signed off on for the private sector without any transparency. We called for the Dagon City project to be stopped, but there are still many small projects that each ministry has agreed to without publicizing any of them, Thein Nyunt said, referring to the planned development that was cancelled by the government in July last year after a public outcry over its proximity to the Shwedagon Pagoda. The outgoing government should openly provide information on these projects to the new government so that it can consider how best to solve any problems, Thein Nyunt said. Maung Maung Lay, vice chairman of the Union of Myanmar Federation of Chambers of Commerce and Industry, said the administration of President Thein Sein should attend to issues over controversial projects before its term ends. If not, there will be more problems if the new government pulls out from these controversial projects, he said. This is a good time for the current government to say what its done in the past, to let all of the people know. Burma Parliament to Change Presidential Elections Date: Document Aung San Suu Kyi is likely to speed up elections of the countrys president in a last-minute change following weeks of talks with the military. Burmas democracy champion Aung San Suu Kyi is likely to speed up elections of the countrys president, in a last-minute change following weeks of talks with the military that has stood by the constitution that bars her from assuming the highest office. Burmas parliament, dominated by the National League for Democracy (NLD) which swept historic elections in November, will change the date of presidential elections, previously set for March 17, according to the agenda for Tuesdays parliamentary session. NLD members and analysts say the party was likely to speed up the vote to end weeks of bickering between the army and the NLD over whether the junta-drafted Constitution, which bars Suu Kyi from becoming president, should be amended. The original date, set only two weeks before the term of the new government was set to start on April 1, gave Suu Kyi plenty of time to negotiate the terms of the transition. But in the face of the unrelenting military, Suu Kyi decided to speed up the vote to gain time to prepare for government, analysts say. Its become clear that amendment of article 59 (f) [barring Suu Kyi from becoming president] is impossible. So they want the presidential nomination to happen earlier so that they can take more time in handling cabinet formation, said political analyst Yan Myo Thein. The NLD swept the historic Nov. 8 election, securing some 80 percent of elected seats in parliament, or enough to push through its president. Suu Kyi is barred from the presidency because she has foreign children. Another factor that may have forced the NLDs surprise change of tactics was lack of cooperation from the outgoing administration of President Thein Sein. Last week, the NLD criticized the military and the army-backed Union Solidarity and Development Party (USDP) over a controversial copper mine project run as a joint venture between a Chinese weapons manufacturer and the Burmese military. It also zeroed in on other lucrative public works projects awarded by the outgoing government at the last minute. In a rare show of outrage, the military MPs stood up, while one of the members of the army caucus rejected the NLDs allegations in parliament. Present government is responsible only to the previous parliament that formed it, said Thein Seins spokesman, Ye Htut, backing ministers who refused to come to Parliament to face questioning by the NLD. The rare heated debate showed the challenges facing Suu Kyi as she tries to overcome years of corrosive distrust between the junta that had ruled the country for nearly half a century and pro-democracy activists. Now both sides are forced to share power. The military controls a large chunk of the countrys administration through three security ministries, has guaranteed a quarter of the seats in the parliament and a constitutional veto. Burma Women Hold Dialogue on Peace Process Inclusion Peace advocates hold a dialogue with civil society leaders to develop a strategy to increase on womens participation in Myanmars peace process. CHIANG MAI, Thailand As part of a push to include more women in Burmas peace process, women peace advocates held a three-day strategic dialogue with civil society leaders who are working toward the advancement and empowerment of women. Members of the Alliance for Gender Inclusion in the Peace Process (AGIPP) brought women from different backgrounds to Chiang Mai, Thailand for the dialoguewhich ended on Mondayon the theme of More Women in the Peace Process Equals Sustainable Peace in Myanmar. AGIPP, a network of the eight womens groups, has been actively advocating on the topic since last year. Dialogue facilitator Nang Raw Zahkung, who is the deputy director of the Nyein (Shalom) Foundation and a steering committee member of AGIPP, told The Irrawaddy that the meeting in northern Thailand aimed to share the views of the women in the peace process and to develop a collective approach to mobilize for the inclusion of more women. Nearly half of the fifty participants were parliamentarians, peace facilitators or female representatives from ethnic armed groups. Drafted in late 2015, soon after the countrys so-called nationwide ceasefire agreement, the draft framework for political dialogue promoted a 30 percent quota for womens inclusion in future peace talks. We aim for our representation to reach this 30 percent quota, as now there is not yet such a proportion, said Nang Raw Zahkung. Doi Bu, a former upper house lawmaker from Kachin States Unity and Democracy Party (UDPKS), said that women need to be ready to take part in the process. Even though women are more than half of the population, we tend to think of staying behind, mostly in the political arena and the peace building process, she explained. In addition, men also need to be reminded to be inclusive of womens participation, as they are the decision makers, even sometimes making decisions to let their wives, peers or daughters to go to such a meeting. The outspoken ex-lawmaker was one of the parliamentary delegates to Burmas Union Peace Conference in January, and will continue serving as delegate from her political party, of which she is joint secretary. Nang Phyu Phyu Lin, the current chair of the AGIPP, said that it is very encouraging that more women in some states, such as Shan [State], are also participating in the joint ceasefire monitoring team. She said that recommendations from the womens strategic dialogue would be shared to the stakeholders in the Union Peace Conference. But, for the nationwide effort, the general consensus is that there remains much work to be done. We must be interested not only in family affairs, but also in the community and in ethnic affairs, Nang Phyu Phyu Lin said. We must participate from the community level on up; without the representation at the community level, we cannot be at the high decision making level. The womens dialogue on gender inclusion was also joined by foreign researchers and experts on the issues of gender quotas and gender content in peace processes and ceasefires. During the session, women also met with leaders of the ethnic armed alliance the United Nationalities Federal Council. Ethnic Issues From the Archive: Reflections on Kachin History With the news that Baptist Rev. Ja Gun passed away on Monday in Laiza, Kachin State, The Irrawaddy revisits a 2012 interview with the renowned historian. Feb. 29, 2016 Baptist Rev. Ja Gun passed away on Monday morning in Laiza, Kachin State. The 70-year-old, a prominent Kachin historian and linguist, was known to have chronic high blood pressure and diabetes. His funeral will be held on Tuesday in Myitkyina. With the sad news of his passing, The Irrawaddy revisits an interview with Rev. Ja Gun that was first published in July 2012. LAIZA Baptist Rev. Ja Gun is one of the most prominent historians and linguists in Kachin State. Educated at the University of Rangoon during the 1960-70s, a period of great student activism in which he took part, he now tutors Kachin Independence Organization (KIO) soldiers about local political history and endeavors to change their worldview, which in the past has been limited by the Burmese curriculum. Speaking to The Irrawaddy in late June, Ja Gun discussed the historical roots of the present conflict between the KIO and the Burmese government as well as the main stumbling blocks towards attaining peace and reconciliation from a Kachin perspective. Can I start with the pre-colonial era. What was the relationship like back then between the Kachin people and Burmese Kingdom in Mandalay? The Kachin people were living between the Burmese Kingdom and the Chinese Kingdomwe were sandwiched between these two powers. Whenever the Burmese kings wanted to cross to China, they had to consult with the Kachin chiefs first. We are living in this buffer zone and, since time immemorial, the Kachin people controlled this borderland. We had an off-and-on relationship with the Burmese kings. Sometimes the strong rulers came to our land and then conquered Mougong and Bhamo, just the lowlands. In former times, the Kachin people were mercenaries. Kachin people had the advantage that they could adapt to this weather, this situation and this mountain region. The Burmese soldiers had good weapons, but it was very difficult for them to overcome the natural hindrances. Whenever there was a war those who made an alliance with the Kachin won. There seems to be a sense of superiority among the Burmese majority towards the ethnic minorities, like the Kachin or the Karen, who they call hill tribes. What do you think are the origins of this? The Burmese were very much proud of the fact that they had kings and the Kachins were very aggressive and the fact was that we never have been subjected to [the rule of] any people, neither Chinese nor Burmese. The British were the first who conquered the Kachin people. The Kachin were always fighting, sometimes fighting within and sometimes fighting their enemies. The Shan civilized first and the Kachin people tried to adopt the Shan civilization and our terminology is loaned from the Shan, and we learned the farming of the wet lands from the Shan people. The Burmese kings had no intention to control the Kachin because they regarded the Kachin as wild people. So they totally ignored us. Lets move to the colonial times. How did the British change Burma and the Kachin? British Burma and the Burmese Kingdom were quite different things. The kingdom of the Burmese kings was very limitedthey could not rule the whole of Kachin State, Wa State, Karenni State and the othersthey just ruled central Burma. So the British conquered all these places because they wanted to make a fence for the Indian sub-continent. During the resistance to British advances in 1886 we didnt find any Burmese commanders resisting, but all the Kachin rulers resisted the occupation at that time. The Burmese throne, in the hands of King Thibaw, had been withdrawn in 1885, so the British thought that they had automatically won Kachin State. But as soon as they arrived the Kachin chiefs resisted the British and finally the British learnt that we, the Kachin, were not the property of the Burmese king. So our feeling today is that joining the Union is a voluntary association. Shan, Kachin and other ethnic minorities had their own history, their own home, their land, their own native language before colonial rule. And then, at the time of the British government, the British organized all those ethnic minorities in our land and made British Burma. During World War II, the Kachin fought alongside the British while the Burmese spent most of the conflict alongside the Japanese under the leadership of Gen Aung San. How did this affect relations between the Kachin and Burmese? The Kachin and the Chin peoples were sympathizers of the Allied Forces, so Aung San and his Burmese Independence Army (BIA) came up during Japanese rule and killed many Kachin people because they accused them of being the stooges of foreign imperialism. I have many records of this. They used Japanese guns everywhere. Until 1944, the BIA came to villages and made trouble for the Kachin people. Its a funny thing to say that the BIA liberated Burma from Japanese occupation. The Allied Forces and the Kachin, the northern Kachin rangers, expelled all the Japanese in conjunction with some hill peoples. The Burmese and Shan sided with the Japanese. The Kachin rangers celebrated Panam Manaw festivities after the victory in Bhamo on March 24-26, 1945, and Aung San started the anti-Japanese movement in Rangoon the day after on March 27. So they were only involved for two or three months. Because of the victory against Japanese occupation, the Kachin people were the main race to talk about political matters because we had the upper hand in our landthat is, in the transitional period. There were no Burmese troops there at that time, only Kachin troops. At the Victory Manaw, the Kachin leaders invited Aung San and his anti-fascist people. They came up and met with us and then we agreed to join for independence. In 1947, the Kachin signed the Panglong Agreement with other groups. Did the civilian government of U Nu respect the agreement? After the death of Aung San, U Nu maintained the Panglong spirit, but the greatest loss of all for us was the U Nu-Attlee Agreement. With the Panglong Agreement we attained equality, but the ethnic minorities had no wisdom at that time. The U Nu-Attlee Agreement was very important because it transferred all the power to U Nus AFPFL [Anti-Fascist Peoples Freedom League] including defense and financial matters. With the 1948 Constitution, the big parties like the AFPFL controlled the whole Parliament and with the U Nu-Attlee Agreement the Rangoon government received all properties and power from the British government. The KIO was created in 1961. What happened at that moment and why was it created then? At that time, representation of ethnic minorities in the constituent assembly was very limited. With the 1948 Constitution, the Burmese government manipulated the ethnic minorities by controlling representatives in Parliament. The first disadvantages came when we transferred some Kachin villages to China. Kachin people, especially Kachin students, opposed that transfer but due to the Constitution we had no voice because our representation was very limited. And the second problem was the state religion. In our Constitution we wanted separation between church and state but U Nu used Buddhism for his political manipulations. We did not hate the Buddhists, we hated his manipulation of Buddhism in political affairs. Our promise in the Panglong Agreement was fairness and fundamental rights protection of minorities, equality, freedom of speech, freedom of religion and fundamental democracy. Thats what we included in the Panglong Agreement. But with the 1948 Constitution U Nu tried to manipulate the law and then, due to these two factsthe state religion and the transfer of powerthere would be no hope in Parliament for the Kachin people. So we started our armed struggle on Feb. 5, 1961. Until now, we want to talk about political matters first. No ceasefire agreement, no development programswe dont need these programs. We have to start talking about political matters as our problems have been rooted in political issues since the Panglong Agreement. At the beginning of the KIOs existence, the Kachin wanted independence but then, in the 1970s, they changed and started to demand autonomy. Why did they change their stance from independence to autonomy? We realized we would not attain our fundamental goal, so we would talk conditionally about internal self-determination. Our independence, deep in our hearts, is non-negotiable but because of our conditionswe are landlockedand also due to our neighboring countries, our military strength and our leadership, we need to adapt to survive. At that time, socialist governments tended to get together. The same happened in the Soviet Union, in Yugoslavia, and also in the Western bloc. People everywhere were getting together so we tried to switch and make alliances with other groupsthe Karen, the Chin, the Rakhine. So we wanted to ally with them and promote their political position as well. And our ultimate goal will probably be full independence. Do you think that a compromise between the Burmese and Kachin is more likely with Thein Sein in power than with former junta chief Snr-Gen Than Shwe? With this so-called transition to democracy? We expect in the near future that there will be internal strife within Thein Seins government. Maybe Thein Sein one day will understand the problem of the ethnic minorities. Suu Kyi understands our situation and Thein Sein maybe understands it but it is a very difficult situation because of the very different political cultures. We are democratic but they want to establish a Burman hegemonyBurman dominant rule, thats their political culture. People who live outside Myanmar understand this, that unless they change their political culture it is very difficult to reconcile with each other. If the Burmans change their political culture, we will reconcile. Suu Kyis position is good to reconcile one day. We do not want to dominate the Burmans, we want to defend our land that is associated with our history, our identity and even our religion in the older times. What do you think is the main obstacle to attaining reconciliation with the Burmans? The main stumbling block is the military, the military regime. The military regime is the replacement of the Burmese kings. Their attitude is to replace the Burmese kings, and the Burmese kings regarded us as wild menthey didnt consider us as a people. Burma Economic Growth Is Not the Best Way to Solve Economic Problems: Policy Advocate In an interview with The Irrawaddy, Penchom Saetang of Ecological Alert and Recovery Thailand explores the negative side of industrial development. RANGOON A public seminar entitled Myanmars Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Opportunities or Threats to Local Communities attracted regional development specialists to Rangoon this week, including Penchom Saetang, Director of Ecological Alert and Recovery Thailand (EARTH). In her work as a community and policy advocate, Saetang fights for corporate and government accountability concerning health and environmental problems from industrial pollution. As Burma is developing three SEZs in Arakan State and Rangoon and Tenasserim divisions, respectively, problems have been highlighted concerning land confiscation, a lack of public consultation and forced relocation. The Irrawaddys Yen Snaing spoke with Saetang about Thailands experience promoting industrialization, and what experiences Burma might be able to draw upon from its neighbor. What lessons can Burma take from Thailand regarding the development of industry in the countrys three special economic zones (SEZ)? Id like to say that Thailand has for a long time promoted industrialization and economic growthI think its around 40 years already. Several communities [throughout] the country have suffered from the negative impacts of industrial development and the promotion of economic growth by governments that ignore [both] local livelihoods and the protection of the ecological system. So Thailand is a good example for Myanmar to learn [about] the negative side of industrial development. We have many contaminated areas where problems have never been solved, and there has never been any policy, action or measure to clean up those lands. Year after year, we have lost an increasing amount of agricultural land like paddy fields and water sources. This is caused by the strong Thai government promotion of industrial development without taking responsibility for the loss of nature, damage to health and the environment of local communities. Economic growth only creates profit and wealth for very small groups of companies, both national and multinational corporations. So economic growth is not the best way to solve the economic problems of the country and it does not help to reduce the gap between the rich and poor people. What alternatives are there? We have other economic patterns of development that can promote growth and are more sustainable than the pattern promoted by the Thai government. Thats why many communities in Thailand try to fight the strong policy of the government and advocate for more sustainable economic development. Many people believe this is better than promoting industrializationparticularly the large-scale projects, like petro-chemical projects and coal power plants. Burma just started this process in the last five years. In the name of economic growth, the country is trying to promote industrialization by inviting foreign direct investment into the country and also promoting special economic zones. What would you suggest to the stakeholders in this process? Myanmar is welcoming investment both from national companies and foreigners. I think Myanmar has a very good opportunity to develop both laws and policies that promote economic growth in more sustainable ways in other ASEAN countries. But more sustainable development will come from three things. The first one is that the Myanmar government will have to promote peoples participation parallel to promoting economic investment. It is very important, because the outcome of economic development [affects] the livelihoods, the happiness and the security of the nation and the people. So the Myanmar government should not make its own decisions without the peoples participation. If the government is open to this, they will reduce conflicts in the country in the long term. The second thing is that before they rapidly promote economic and industrial growth, the Myanmar government should secure laws that protect the environment, control pollution, and protect [peoples] health. The investors, particularly the big industrial investors, are concerned only with earning the highest [possible] profit. The Myanmar government has a good opportunity to learn from the experiences of Thailand, Japan and other countries, and not to allow history to repeat itself. And the third thing is that sustainable development should come with transparency and a democratic system. Transparency, good government and a democratic system are very important criteria in securing the long term [commitment] of the government and in rebuilding your country with integrity and more sustainability. Monday, February 29th, 2016 (1:22 pm) - Score 1,429 BTOpenreach has announced that their Community Fibre Partnerships, which involve working with residents of isolated communities in order to upgrade their local connectivity, will soon have brought fibre broadband (FTTC/P) services to an extra 25,000 UK homes and businesses. Openreach has been running similar partnerships for a few years and the current approach involves a co-funding model, which requires local residents and businesses to cover any costs that rise above those of BTORs own commercial model for the area. Once agreed, 50% of the gap funding must be paid prior to work starting and the final 50% on completion. Communities that tend to follow this path are those that arent expected to benefit from the state aid fuelled Broadband Delivery UK programme. Apparently the 50th community to benefit is Coleorton in Leicestershire (England), although dozens morecontracts are in progress (once completed they will have helped to cover an extra 25,000 UK premises). Apparently the latest deployment started after people living on Coleorton Hall estate, a Grade II listed building converted into residential apartments, asked Openreach to help them upgrade the area because slow broadband speeds of 1-2Mbps were far too common. On top of that around 120 premises across the wider village will also benefit from the new network. David Baston, Coleorton Hall Resident, said: We knew that we might have to wait for some time before receiving fibre broadband and so decided to take matters into our own hands. We approached BT directly and are delighted with the end result. Having access to superfast broadband has opened up many opportunities and we can do so much more online now than before. Sadly were given no information about the funding involved, although similar projects elsewhere have required local communities to contribute anything from around 10,000 to 60,000 (depending upon the area and challenges involved). For example, the 2014 upgrade in Binfield Heath cost local people 56,000 and a similar project in Ashley village gobbled 15,000 (here). Interestingly the latest partnership in Coleorton appears to have gone live almost one year ago when some 400 homes were connected to superfast broadband (24Mbps+) speeds, thus either Openreachs PR machine is incredibly slow or todays news references a local extension to that same network. Kim Mears, Openreachs MD for Infrastructure Delivery, said: We are committed to working with communities like Coleorton to help them achieve their goal of a fast fibre connection. Rural areas often present the most difficult and complex challenges but working together gives us the best chance possible of finding a suitable and affordable way forward. We have a dedicated team focussed on helping people understand what can be achieved in parts of the UK not already covered by existing rollout plans. As usual its possible to read this story in one of two ways. On the one hand it shows that BT has the capacity to adapt and deliver a useful service by working with a very small community, but on the other its arguably a bit disappointing that the community felt it had no other option than to donate money to get better broadband from the national incumbent. At least the end result is still faster broadband and thats a good thing. Furthermore its unclear whether the community attempted to court the interest of any alternative network providers, such as Gigaclear, which might potentially have been able to roll-out an even faster network and possibly do it for less money. Top 10 Strategic Technology Trends for 2016 Reality bites, or so the famous phrase would have us believe. In the world of business, the realities of product development, systems management and advanced modeling can bite as well, unless they can be improved in some way. One of the hottest items at the Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas earlier this month was virtual reality (VR), led by companies like Oculus Rift, Sony and Apple. While much of the focus was on the technologys applications in gaming and consumer markets, a few people are starting to look at it as a serious business tool. One of them is Sean Jacobsohn, a member of Norwest Venture Partners, who sees VR as yet another means to make the enterprise more productive, quite possibly leading to an entirely new level of market disruption once the current trends of virtualization, cloud computing and mobility have run their course. Jacobsohn notes that research firms like Juniper say about 3 million VR devices will ship this year, with a possible 10-fold increase by 2020. Fields as diverse as real estate, manufacturing and medical training/modeling have already been bitten by the VR bug, and the possibilities for advancement are endless literally, anything that can be seen, touched and heard can be replicated and even enhanced by VR. It is important to remember that while IT will not own the VR initiatives that arise in the enterprise, it will have to support them, says SearchCIO.coms Nicole Laskowski. This will likely fuel development in a number of key aspects of data infrastructure, such as content creation, maintenance and storage, as well as greater bandwidth and improved integration with legacy systems. VR rests on real-time performance, and depending on the level of detail required it can place an extraordinary burden on available resources. In order to provide a positive experience from the start, these capabilities will have to be bumped up in advance. Otherwise, disillusionment among the knowledge workforce could set in, and the enterprise could lose a competitive advantage to organizations that can mount a successful implementation. Already, some developers are planning for a time when VR is not the exception in the typical enterprise work day but the rule. Envelope VR founder Bob Berry says the state of the technology today is equivalent to the pre-Windows DOS days of the PC. As it matures, VR will start to encapsulate (or envelope) the entire development process, including run-time and coding console simulations. In this way, entire products can be created in fully immersive 3-D environments, rather than todays predominantly 2-D development processes with perhaps a little VR for testing and simulation. The companys current offering, the Envelope Virtual Environment (EVE), is available on the Oculus Rift and HTC Vive platforms. But while virtual reality may be a little far off for many organizations, augmented reality (AR) just might be the answer to a number of pressing issues, says IDCs Tom Mainelli. In much the same way that the PC was an improvement over the typewriter, AR deployed on various wearable devices can provide a similar boost to productivity, although its hard to see how until youve tried it. In many fields, such as health care, design, logistics and service delivery, AR is already starting to replace smartphones and tablets as the primary means of communication. The key issue going forward is whether hardware developers like Google can overcome the anxiety that earlier versions of wearable devices engendered, even to the point where it becomes uncool not to have AR glasses, headset or the like. The idea of entire workforces engaging one another via graphic simulation is a bit unnerving, and is fraught with security, privacy and reliability issues, not to mention questions of common courtesy. Imagine the fuss that would kick up if someone started programming their VR headsets to render all women in the office in the likeness of a nude Kate Upton. But the potential is too great to ignore. At a time when many enterprise jobs are becoming automated because machines are so much better at them than humans, it seems logical that humans would want to enhance their ability to do what they do best: think, create and invent. Arthur Cole writes about infrastructure for IT Business Edge. Cole has been covering the high-tech media and computing industries for more than 20 years, having served as editor of TV Technology, Video Technology News, Internet News and Multimedia Weekly. His contributions have appeared in Communications Today and Enterprise Networking Planet and as web content for numerous high-tech clients like TwinStrata and Carpathia. Follow Art on Twitter @acole602. HelpSystems CEO Chris Heim told IT Jungle that his companys acquisition of rival IBM i software maker Tango/04 Computing Group last week marks the beginning of an aggressive push into the overseas market. The deal for Tango/04 will jumpstart HelpSystems presence in Southern Europe and Latin America, but theres a lot more room for expansion, he says. While North America is far and away the biggest market for IBM i goods and services, the platform has always enjoyed strong overseas sales and has an international presence that is arguably bigger than it is in the United States. IBM makes about 45 to 50 percent of its sales in the U.S., which means the international market accounts for 50 to 55 percent. Our sales are 73 percent concentrated in the United States, so there are a lot of opportunities worldwide that we are missing out on, Heim said in an interview late Friday. So this was about us picking up some great resources, some great products, some great offices in parts of that world that we havent done a lot of business in, quite honestly, in Latin America and Southern Europe. Now we feel the coverage for our products is much stronger. The acquisition nets HelpSystems two major offices, including Tango/04s headquarters in Barcelona, Spain, and its Latin American headquarters in Buenos Aires, Argentina. The plan calls for the Tango/04 staffers in those officesthey both have about 30 employees eachto begin selling the entire suite of HelpSystems products. It will more than double our international resource and increase our international revenue by one-third today, Heim continued. I think its a great staring point and more excitingly it provides us a foundation for even greater expansion in the future. Tango/04 has been serving the needs of the AS/400, iSeries, System i, and IBM i community since it was founded 25 years ago. The company boasts a roster of more than 300 customers, about 80 percent of which are IBM i shops. Tango/04 had a number of marquee names on its logo sheet, including companies like 3M, Costco, McDonalds, Nike, UBS Bank, and Zurich. The company was strongest in the financial services businessit counts a number of Latin American banks as customersbut it has a footprint in other IBM i strongholds, like retail, consumer goods, and distribution too. Heim is looking forward to tapping Tango/04s resourcesincluding those staffers and its extensive partner networkto grow sales of HelpSystems products around the world. If you look at their needs, security is one of the top ones, he said. Its an untapped market for us in many respects. In addition to international reach, the deal brings to HelpSystems Alignia, Tango/04s new flagship business service management (BSM) product, which was launched just a year and a half ago. Alignia is a cross-platform suite of infrastructure, middleware, and application monitoring software designed to automate much of the IT management drudgery that needs to be done, while shielding workers from the technical complexity that afflict todays cross-platform workflows. According to Tango/04s director of consulting and managed administration, Paolo Cappello, Alignia sits above the VISUAL products and serves to integrate various messaging tools. Where we want to go with Alignia is to have companies control their business, Cappello, who now runs the Barcelona office, said in an interview. Things are changing and companies do not really manage all the technology they need to offer those services, because theyre using a lot of services provided by third party, by partners, etc. So all this complexity can really have an impact on the business. Heim called Alignia a visionary product and says HelpSystems various systems management productssuch as the Robot, Halcyon, and Bytware toolsare stitched together and integrated with Alignia. They have some really great capabilities to monitor all these solutions and then do some really cool things with correlation, he said. Well definitely integrate it in. We have a fair number of those capabilities. But Alignia goes beyond some of the things we do in some of those other areas that are critical. Tango/04 CEO Raul Cristian Aguirrewho is not joining HelpSystems after selling his companysaid the two companies make a great match. HelpSystems has a stellar reputation for delivering innovative software that makes IT environments more efficient, as Tango/04 does with Alignia, Cristian Aguirre said in a statement. Seeing their dedication to excellence and taking care of the customer I know we have found a good home because thats exactly what weve been doing and will continue to do together. Heim, who joined HelpSystems in late 2014, said the deal has been a long time in coming. We look back at the notes, and weve been talking to Tango/04 about acquiring them for ten years, he said. So this is not a new development. What really accelerated this is Raul visited us over the summer and he really felt comfortable with what theyre going on HelpSystems and the way were treating employees and customer. So he thought it would be a great home for Tango and that really accelerated things. Weve made so many policy changes regarding customer pricing and things like that, he felt comfortable with that, that it would be a good home. This wont be the last deal for HelpSystems, which has acquired 15 companies over a 10-year period. Heim noted that, after the deal was announced last Thursday, he got a few calls from some other software vendors overseas. Heres a list of HelpSystems acquisitions since 2006: Tango/04 Computing Group February 2016 Skyview Partners June 2015 Halcyon Software January 2015 RJS Software Systems July 2014 Coglin Mill July 2014 Network Automation Inc. (NAI) April 2014 ShowCase BI tools from IBM April 2013 Dartware January 2013 CCSS October 2012 Safestone Technologies June 2012 DataThread tool from Innovatum June 2011 eveLogic Group (international distributor) January 2008 Bytware September 2008 PowerTech Group August 2007 Advanced Systems Concepts October 2006 RELATED STORIES Tango/04 Boosts IT-Business Alignment Capabilities HelpSystems Acquired By Private Equity Giant H.I.G. Capital Under New CEO, HelpSystems Snaps Up Rival Halcyon Tango/04 Lunches Alignia to Simplify Corporate Monitoring This domain name expired on 2022-10-16 00:22:00 Click here to renew it. Megaport reports that the revenue was generated in the Asia Pacific business units, of which Australia accounts for 90%, but that there was a loss after Direct Network costs - comprised of data centre power and space, physical cross connect fees, bandwidth and dark fibre, network operation and maintenance, and channel commissions - directly related to generating the service revenue of Megaport Group of $149,455 for all business units. We are pleased to report that the markets in Asia Pacific, specifically Australia, continue to grow and generate profit after Direct Network costs, in addition to strong market adoption gains with 31% revenue growth during this half-year, said Denver Maddux, Chief Executive Officer, Megaport. The number of Ports sold increased by 72% and we are happy that Singapore and Hong Kong have shown continued improvement in revenue growth. The company also incurred a net loss for the half-year of $9,939,517, which included one-off costs relating to the establishment of the business and IPO costs of $3,108,840.The half yearly result follows Megaports two successful capital raisings of $10 million in August last year via a private placement, and $25 million raised last December through an Initial Public Offering.Megaport says the funds provide capital for the company to complete network expansions into North American and European markets. hire additional sales and engineering professionals; and investigate expansion opportunities into new markets and fund Offer costs.On market expansion to date, Megaport says it has deployed over half of its planned North American footprint and service availability dates are on schedule, while expansion into Europe is well underway.In North American market, 12 of its 31 planned locations as at 31 December are completed, with a further six completed as at 29 February 2016 and the remaining 13 locations are on track for completion by 30 April, with services now available in seven of the eight planned metropolitan areas.In Europe, Megaport reports its rollout has commenced in seven of the 13 planned locations, with a total number of Megaport active sites as at 29 February 2016 at 54, up from 36 at the end of July 2015.Maddux says Megaport has signed its first Open Alliance Agreement in North America with Wowrack, based in Seattle, Washington, extending services into its facility. In addition to executing on our planned core footprint, external demand for elastic interconnectivity to cloud service providers has also shaped Megaports deployments.Maddux said the Open Alliance provides a framework to quickly deploy to data centres with demand for direct cloud connectivity.On the outlook, Maddux said Megaports closing Cash of $25,441,258 puts it in a strong position to execute the remaining builds rollout consists of 31 locations in North America by 30 April 2016 and 13 locations in Europe and staffing and talent acquisition remain a core priority as the company executes on its North America plans and builds the European business unit.We are delighted with our teams execution on the rollout of our core service footprint in North America and their business development efforts to build our ecosystem of service providers, said Maddux.Megaport has the largest Elastic Interconnection network in Asia Pacific, with the greatest reach into the most key data centres. By demonstrating demand for direct, elastic interconnectivity to cloud service providers within Asia Pacific, we have strengthened our relationship with key cloud and network service providers. This is also fuelling demand for Megaport to enable our cloud partners direct connectivity services into our expansion markets. The Boston-based open source firm Acquia is dabbling in several technologies to ensure that, down the road, it stays as big a player in the market as it is now. Acquia uses the Drupal content management system to build websites for companies around the world and has produced and powered roughly 12 per cent of all Drupal implementations, according to Chris Stone, the head of engineering and chief product officer. Stone (seen above), who is in Australia on a short visit, said that of the 4000 customers world-wide, many were in a cloud environment. Acquia is one of the largest customers of Amazon Web Services, with the latter also having invested in the company. Acquia manages about 14,000 serves on AWS, with each hosting anything from 10 to 100 websites. Given this move to the cloud, the architecture had to change accordingly, Stone said. Many customers wanted to run additional applications on the sites and Acquia had to support these third-party applications. He said a scalable environment was needed, one where customers would be billed according to the resources they used at any point in time. Since Acquia already manages the Super Bowl, the biggest event in terms of web traffic, it was able to plan the extent of hardware needed to support big events. Planning was well advanced with NBC for the Rio Olympics, Stone said, adding that Acquia would also be involved in the Commonwealth Games in 2018. The future for a company like Acquia would not lie in building websites alone, he said, as people were gradually moving over to other smaller devices for which native code would have to be created, tailored to a specific device. "People in the US are still mostly web-oriented whereas in countries like China and India, people experience things mostly on mobiles," he said. This called for more responsive design and also content of a much smaller size compared to huge web pages that are the fashion today. To this end, Acquia is working on front-end experiences with client-side frameworks like Ember.js, Angular and Backbone which could vary delivery. Ultimately, the goal is to monetise the process. User data would be captured and used to tailor the experience to the individual. Ads would be served based on personal choices, and the end goal would be to convert people from just looking to buying, said Stone. Or maybe watching a video long enough to also take in an ad. Acquia has also created a tool called Cloud Site Factory which can be used to manage multiple sites for the same entity. Stone said there were big companies like Nestle or Pfizer that had hundreds of sites, with different specifications. All the tweaking and management could be done with Site Factory. In 2014, Acquia gained a big foothold in the Australian market by winning a contract to develop up to 450 websites for the federal government. The resulting CMS will be known as govCMS. For this, there are eight staff in Canberra dedicated to liaising with people there. Acquia also has a presence in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. Cybercriminals have shifted tactics to fool victims, rather than invest in technical exploits across email, social media and mobile applications. It is easier! Proofpoint, a leading next-generation cybersecurity company, has released its annual Human Factor cybercrime report. In 2015, attackers significantly shifted their strategy to fool humans into becoming unwitting accomplices in the quest to steal information and money. Based on customer data, the Proofpoint Human Factor 2016 report (registration required for the free report) details trends across email, social media platforms and mobile applications to reveal attacker behaviours and recommend how organizations can secure their systems to combat the human factor. Attackers moved from technical exploits to human exploitation in 2015, said Kevin Epstein, vice president of Threat Operations for Proofpoint. Peoples natural curiosity and gullibility are now targeted at an unprecedented scale. Attackers largely did not rely on sophisticated, expensive technical exploits. They ran simple, high-volume campaigns that hinged on social engineering. People were used as unwitting pawns to infect themselves with malware, hand over key credentials, and fraudulently wire money on the attackers behalf. Even more disturbing was that Proofpoint discovered more than 12,000 malicious mobile apps in authorized Android app stores. Read on for the report highlights. Key findings from The Human Factor 2016 report include: Attackers infected computers by tricking people into doing it themselves rather than using automated exploit technology. More than 99 percent of all documents used in attachment-based malicious email campaigns relied on human interaction. Ransomware was very popular in 2015 exploit kit campaigns and has continued its reign in 2016. Banking Trojans were the most popular type of malicious document payload in email campaigns. Dridex message volume was almost 10 times greater than the next most-used payload. The documents themselves used malicious macros extensively and relied on social engineering to trick the user into running malicious code. times greater than the next most-used payload. The documents themselves used malicious macros extensively and relied on social engineering to trick the user into running malicious code. Hackers served phishing emails for breakfast and social media spam for lunch. Cybercriminals timed attacks to ensure optimum distraction. For example, Tuesday mornings between 9-10 a.m. were the most popular for phishing campaigns and social media spam hit a high in the afternoon. Social media phishing scams are 10 times more common than social media malware. Fraudulent social media accounts, pretending to represent known brands, spiked last year. Forty percent of Facebook accounts and 20 percent of Twitter accounts claiming to represent a global 100 brand were unauthorized. times more common than social media malware. Fraudulent social media accounts, pretending to represent known brands, spiked last year. Forty percent of Facebook accounts and 20 percent of Twitter accounts claiming to represent a global 100 brand were unauthorized. Dangerous mobile apps from rogue marketplaces affect forty percent of enterprises. Users who download apps from rogue marketplaces and bypass multiple security warnings in the process are four times more likely to download a malicious app. These apps steal personal information, passwords and data. People willingly downloaded more than two billion mobile apps that steal personal data. Proofpoint discovered more than 12,000 malicious mobile apps in authorized Android app stores. Many were capable of stealing information, creating backdoors and other nefarious functions. Comment As I ploughed through the 28-page report it became clear that a new breed of cybercriminal was out there one with limited hacking skills that bought malware off-the-shelf from the dark web but one with the persistence to use social engineering to get gullible people to click on a link and install malware. Success estimates vary, but I have read reports that say around 16% of malware makes it through sometimes very much higher if highly targeted spear phishing is used. So cybercriminals hire a low-cost botnet by the hour and make money while they sleep relying on the human factor. And while eastern and western Europe had more attacks Australia was next followed by the US and Japan. It Australia more fertile ground? But that human factor, or rather the gullibility and stupidity behind it meant they successfully targeted key people who had valued credentials, such as usernames and passwords to crucial systems or useful services, tricking them into turning over their keys to the castle. These attacks were narrow and highly targeted. They aimed for users with the right job duties and ability act directly on behalf of attackers. These users, thinking they were following orders from higher-ups, most often made wire transfers to fraudulent bank accounts. These attacks differed in scale and volume. But they all shared one common thread: using social engineering to persuade people to do the work of malwareand deliver big dividends for the attackers. The nbn was responding to a report by Fairfax Media on Monday morning that a leaked government report - "never intended for public disclosure" - had highlighted the extent to which the project has fallen behind its construction timetable. The nbn, in response, maintains it is on track to meet or exceed full year targets. According to the newspaper, the report, marked "commercial in confidence" and "for official use only", sets out a litany of problems in delivering the Coalition's supposedly more budget-friendly fibre-to-the-node (FTTN) model. The newspaper also says that the "final design" process for connections - needed before construction can start - is running far behind schedule, according to the 19 February report - while 1,402,909 premises should have been approved at the date of the report, the figure was sitting at 662,665 - 740,000 fewer than planned.According to the leaked report, there has also been an increase in the cost per connection of design and construction, which has now reached $1366, compared with the target price of $1114 - a 23% increase.In a brief but strong defence of its position, the NBN says in a statement this morning that it has exceeded every key target for six quarters in a row, adding that the companys management has proven repeatedly that it can effectively monitor risks and manage those risks.The company is on track to meet or exceed its full year targets of 2.6 million homes Ready For Service, approximately one million homes using the network, and more than $300 million in revenue, an NBN spokesman said.As at 18 February 2016, nearly 1.8 million homes can now order a service and more than 800,000 homes are already connected and using the nbn network.Were now tracking over 10,000 new activations a week. By the end of this financial year were on track for nearly one in four homes to be able to order an nbn service and by June of 2018 this is set to grow to three in four.The NBN spokesman says the company will not be drawn on alleged internal documents we report quarterly and our results are audited.Concludes the NBN: This is an incredibly complex project unlike any infrastructure build anywhere in the world. Australian business leaders and its people are optimistic about digital transformation but there is anxiety in delivering on the promise of the Fourth Industrial revolution. GE, a major global capital, expertise, and infrastructure provider, has announced its 2016 Innovation Barometer that explores how global and Australian business leaders and the general public perceive the opportunities for, and barriers to, innovation in a complex global environment. It is worth exploring the report web site for the rich additional information it provides. Now in its fifth year, the research was commissioned by GE and conducted by Edelman Berland between October 13, 2015 and December 7, 2015 (prior to the announcement by Prime Minister Turnbull of the National Innovation & Science Agenda: December 7, 2015). In Australia, 106 senior business executives and 109 informed publics were interviewed. 70% of the business executives surveyed are at the C-suite level. The countries included in the research are: Algeria, USA, Australia, China, Canada, South Africa, India, Poland, Sweden, Russia, Nigeria, Malaysia, Brazil, France, UAE, Mexico, Israel, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, Germany, Turkey and Saudi Arabia. Geoff Culbert, President & CEO of GE Australia, New Zealand and PNG said, We are living in the most disruptive era in history. Compared with the industrial revolution, the change we are experiencing today is happening ten times faster and at 300 times the scale so companies are feeling massive pressure to disrupt themselves to survive. It is encouraging to see that Australian business leaders are excited about entering the Fourth Industrial Revolution - more so than our global peers. They recognise the transformative power of innovation and see enormous potential to uncover new business models, new products and new markets to succeed in todays increasingly competitive world. The following, where relevant, will express Executive/Citizen percentages as XX/YY%. The research revealed that 66/72% are optimistic about the next wave of innovation, and 69% are excited about entering the Fourth Industrial Revolution. Few (16/17%) are worried that the digital revolution will have a negative impact on employment. More than in other countries, they share the view that the digital revolution will create new types of jobs (61/69%), and Australian executives are confident it will improve the quality of existing jobs (51%). While Australian business leaders are excited about the world's digital transformation, they are anxious that technology is evolving faster than they can adapt. 89% are feeling the pressure of Digital Darwinism, recognising that more and more businesses risk becoming obsolete as technology evolves quicker than companies can adapt. They recognise that disruption is crucial to keeping up, yet only 32% feel their company is performing very well at quickly adapting and implementing emerging technologies. Embracing new models and technologies Australian businesses are adapting through new partnerships and investments. 77% see an increase in financial results from collaborative initiatives, and 74% have a clear innovation strategy in place. There has been a significant rise in the recognition of the strategic value of data and analytics among Australian executives to inform decision-making. 73% of companies have also increased their ability to analyse data (up from 41% last year), as 65% increasingly find the use of big data is a key ingredient to successful innovation (40% in last year). Australian government to act as an innovation catalyst Globally, there is a call for greater government support for innovation and this is especially true in Australia with only 17% wishing for the government to focus less on driving innovation in Australia (versus 30% globally) and 94% calling for government to make Australia a leading country for innovation. Disruptive innovation: the way forward Being disruptive is the gold standard for both executives and citizens, but remains a challenging goal for businesses to implement. 94% of Australian business executives agree that the most innovative companies not only launch new products and services but also create a new market that didnt previously exist. 87% of Australian business executives say that the "start-up ethos is a paradigm to follow. Australian business executives feel that the best practices to foster and enable reliable and radical innovation are also the most challenging to implement. These include having a clear process and structure in place to manage innovation (48%), and creating a connected culture where idea sharing is facilitated and contributing parties are recognised and rewarded (56%). It is clear that innovation has moved to the top of the agenda for government, business and members of the public. We are all aligned on the fact that Australia must be more innovative. Our challenge now is to move from conversation to action, said Culbert. About the Fourth Industrial Revolution The Industrial Internet is the next wave of innovation impacting the way the world connects and optimises machines. Through the use of sensors, advanced analytics and brilliant machines, the Fourth Industrial Revolution is profoundly transforming the way machines connect and communicate, enabling productivity and efficiency gains, anticipating maintenance before breakdowns occur and transforming todays workforce. The Minister, in a prepared statement on Monday morning, said the nbn is on track to meet its targets for the financial year, within the budget set out in the company's corporate plan, and "any suggestion to the contrary is just wrong". According to the Minister, the company (nbn) has met its targets for the past six quarters in a row - and he has a slap at the Oppostiion: "This is in stark contrast to management under Labor, when the company had barely managed to connect 50,000 users after four years". "The Coalition Government has taken a business-like approach to managing the nbn project. After two terms of Government, Labor had upgraded broadband to just 1 in 50 premises in Australia." In his brief statement, the Minister says that by the end of this year, the nbn will have upgraded 1 in 4 premises and by the end of 2018 it will have extended to 3 in 4 premises. "Our changes to the rollout will see the project finished six to eight years sooner than reverting to Labors approach, and at around $30 billion less cost," the Minister concludes. Only last month when releasing the nbn's half year 2016 results, nbn CEO Bill Morrow was buoyant about nbn and the progress his team were making in the progressive rollout of the fast broadband network across Australia - and towards having 8 million premises across the country connected to the nbn by 2020. In his report, Morrow said that the number of premises that can order an nbn service had already reached nearly 1.7 million, adding 450,00 homes and businesses to the nbn footprint. He also reported: The number of homes and businesses with an active nbn service increased to 735,000, with nbn breaking the 10,000 activations per week threshold in December last year and will continue to climb Total revenue earned in the half was $164 million, an increase of 152% compared to the prior corresponding period (6 months to end December 2014, with an average revenue per user (ARPU of $43 per month). Morrow, and the nbns chief financial officer Stephen Rue both, said the results for the half year were on target with the corporate plan, and they were confident that by 2020 the nbn will start to pay for itself. The research, commissioned by recruitment firm Robert Half, shows that 92% of businesses specifically finance directors - are concerned that the departure of Baby Boomers in the job market will have a negative impact on their company over the next two years. And, 95% say they believe there will be a skills gap due to the retirement of the Baby Boomer generation. According to Robert Half Senior Managing Director Asia Pacific, David Jones employers need to start preparing now for the predicted skills shortage. "With the Baby Boomer generation retiring over the coming years, companies risk facing a skills and talent shortage. In order for companies not to lose the expertise and know-how of their experienced employees, companies have to make talent management a priority, Jones cautions.The research does show that to ensure they can manage the loss of the Baby Boomer generation on the workforce, 97% of finance leaders are already taking measures to counter the potential skills gap.Its revealed that they are making significant commitments to invest in the next generation and are supporting them through measures such as, training and professional development programs (44%), mentoring programs (36%) and succession planning (29%).And, according to Robert Half, companies are also considering external solutions and plan to recruit mid-level (38%) and senior-level (31%) employees who, via the necessary knowledge transfer, can be used to the maximum extent within the company in the short term."A thorough inventory of the core skills that organisations have in-house and the ones they will have to replace is an important first step. Potential successors should subsequently be readied in time by targeted training and mentoring programs, Jones says.For the expertise that is not available internally, companies must look for new employees that possess the necessary skills and expertise. This means there will be new and additional job opportunities and companies are looking at both senior and less senior profiles to fill these roles.Jones points out that, although the official retirement age in Australia is set at 65 years, many Baby Boomers will continue to work for several years to come - businesses are therefore making efforts to attract and retain this generation on the workforce by enhancing their employee benefits (39%) or by offering flexible and/or part-time work arrangements (18%).Concludes Jones: Baby Boomers generally have extensive experience and specific skills that businesses wish to retain as long as possible. Offering interim or part-time contracts to employees nearing retirement can be an ideal way to keep the knowledge of Baby Boomers in the company while at the same time offering the necessary flexibility. The partnership will enable EB2BCOM to provide the Asia Pacific region with the ability to maintain security and compliance during the surging uptake of cloud applications and services. In welcoming the Dome9 and EB2BCOM partnership, Bob Darabant, EVP Global Sales for Dome9 stated Dome9 recognises EB2BCOMs capability and understanding of both security and cloud platforms. EB2BCOM has a long and successful track record in helping leading edge technology vendors enter the ANZ and Asia Pacific markets, and both companies are aligned in seeing the enormous potential for a game-changing solution like Dome9 SecOps in these markets. At a fraction of the cost of competing approaches, Dome9 enables organisations to centralise cloud server security management with automated controls to ensure the infrastructure is not left vulnerable. A company born out of, and designed for Amazon Web Services (AWS), Dome9 has increased specialised security support to manage and secure cloud servers across almost all cloud platforms. As the second largest adopter of AWS after the US, Australian companies are moving workloads to cloud platforms faster than most other parts of the world to take advantage of the financial benefits of the cloud, yet until now cloud security operations have not be simple or secure enough to keep up with the workload. The partnership between EB2BCOM and Dome9 will ensure organisations that have recently, or are actively moving production workloads to the cloud feel supported by local partners. Dome9s product and service offering has been very successful in the US and Europe, and their experience in growing those markets will benefit the APAC region. Australian and Asia Pacific businesses, including existing EB2BCOM clients, will get the benefit of Dome9s leading edge technology, with the security of local support and product expertise, comments Adam Neale, Chief Operating Officer for EB2BCOM. EB2BCOMs trusted position in local markets will allow Dome9 to be quickly recognised as the technology leader in cloud security management that they have become overseas. To find out more about a cloud security solution for your company, please visit https://www.eb2bcom.com/products/dome-9.html . About EB2BCOM EB2BCOM is one of the Asia Pacific regions leading security consulting, implementation and support provider, bringing local companies cutting edge software solutions from around the world. Specialising in Cloud security, Identity and Access Management deployments, EB2BCOM provides solutions for the Government, Defence, eHealth and Corporate sectors. As industry thought leaders, EB2BCOMs experience and expertise allows them to assess clients needs and determine the best solutions to deliver appropriate security. Products are sourced from international suppliers and undergo a strict assessment before being supplied by EB2BCOM, ensuring clients receive only the best and most reliable products. About Dome9 Security: Dome9 Security protects cloud infrastructure. Leveraging cloud-native technologies, Dome9 visualises security risks, enforces security policies, and remediates threats to ensure continuous secure application delivery in the cloud. Dome9 self-managed cloud service is trusted by hundreds of enterprise customers to protect clouds over Amazon Web Services (AWS), Windows Azure, IBMs Softlayer and many others. EB2BCOM Media Contact Nina De La Cruz nina@marketingeye.com.au 03 9692 7600 Researchers have found that the Chinese Baidu browser and apps based on its SDK transmit user's search terms, GPS coordinates, the addresses of websites visited and device's MAC or IMEI address to Baidu's servers without using SSL/TLS encryption or gaining the users permission. Baidu Browser is a free web browser for the Windows and Android platforms, produced by Baidu, one of Chinas largest technology companies. The browser offers some features beyond those found in standard browsers, including video and audio download tools and built-in torrent support. The study from Citizen Lab at the University of Toronto found that: Baidu Browser for Windows and Android platforms transmits personal user data to Baidu servers without encryption and with easily decryptable encryption and is vulnerable to arbitrary code execution during software updates via man-in-the-middle attacks. and is vulnerable to arbitrary code execution during software updates via man-in-the-middle attacks. The Android version of Baidu Browser transmits personally identifiable data, including a users GPS coordinates, search terms, and URLs visited, without encryption, and transmits the users IMEI and a list of nearby wireless networks with easily decryptable encryption. The Windows version of Baidu Browser also transmits some personally identifiable data points, including a users search terms, hard drive serial number model and network MAC address, URL and title of all web pages visited, and CPU model number, without encryption or with easily decryptable encryption. personally identifiable data points, including a users search terms, hard drive serial number model and network MAC address, URL and title of all visited, and CPU model number, without encryption or with easily decryptable encryption. Neither the Windows nor Android versions of Baidu Browser protects software updates with code signatures, meaning an in-path malicious actor could cause the application to download and execute arbitrary code, representing a significant security risk. software updates with code signatures, meaning an in-path malicious actor could cause the application to download and execute arbitrary code, representing a significant security risk. The Windows version of Baidu Browser contains a feature to proxy requests to certain websites, which permits access to some websites that are normally blocked in China. in China. Analysis of the global versions of Baidu Browser indicates that the data leakage is the result of a shared Baidu software development kit (SDK), which affects hundreds of additional applications developed by both Baidu and third parties in the Google Play Store and thousands of applications in one popular Chinese app store. The Lab also found last year that the UC Browser with over 500 million users similarly transmitted private data to its developer Alibaba, another Chinese company. Not good read on why you must uninstall this browser now despite assurances that the issues above have been addressed. On November 26, 2015, Citizen Lab notified Baidu of its findings and intent to publish in 45 days. Baidu initially stated that the issues would be resolved in updates released on January 24, 2016. However, after Baidu identified that these security issues affected additional products, they requested Citizen Lab delay publication until after February 14, 2016. Baidu indicated it would release updated versions of both the Windows and Android browsers by February 14, 2016. Citizen Labs performed an analysis of both updated versions to determine if the issues we identified had been resolved. Not all had been addressed. The Chinese government strictly controls Internet use. Baidu can, and must, hand over user [meta] data to intelligence agencies and law enforcement. The data collection raises questions about whether it could be used against those who oppose government policies as well as for nefarious activities. "While Internet companies often collect personal user data for the normal and efficient provision of services, it is unclear why Baidu Browser collects and transmits such an extensive range of sensitive user data points," the report said. It also found that Baidus mobile apps sent similar data to its servers including IMEI and location. Citizen Lab published a list of its questions to, and answers from, Baidu. It is an interesting lesson in avoidance and double speak. In particular: Which laws, regulations, or policies (internal or external) govern Baidus collection of user data? What user data is Baidu required to collect under such law, regulation, or policy? The answer - unable to comment. Is Baidu required by authorities to collect any user data as a condition for providing uncensored web access through its proxy feature? What data related to the proxy feature is Baidu required to share with the Chinese government? The answer - Unable to comment. Makes other browsers seem lily white. If you are concerned about such privacy breaches, remove the browser and apps based on its SDK immediately. The updated tool is designed to help businesses correctly meet their tax and super obligations for their workers in the wake of what the ATO says are many myths about employee/contractor arrangements. It is important for all businesses to get the distinction right, said Deputy Commissioner Steve Vesperman. We know from our own field work that many businesses are getting the employee or contractor decision wrong, and often this is just not knowing what determines one from the other. The decision tool is accessible through any mobile device. Provided the answers reflect the actual engagement arrangements, businesses will get a result they can rely on about whether their worker is an employee or contractor.Any business owner who uses this tool will be in no doubt about how to meet the tax and super obligations for their workers.According to the ATO, incorrectly treating employees as contractors is a problem in many industries, in particular the building and construction, cleaning, road transport and security industries.Vesperman said while most business tried to do the right thing, some businesses deliberately treated their employees as contractors to illegally lower their labour costs by not withholding tax or paying the super guarantee.In the long-run it just isnt worth risking penalties that may apply - this tool will help you get it right.The ATO cautions, Dont get caught by employee/contractor myths and provides the following adviceMyth # 1: If the worker has an ABN, theyre a contractorFact: Having an ABN makes no difference, and will not make your worker a contractor for a job. If the working arrangement is employment, whether your worker has or quotes an ABN will not make them a contractor.Myth #2: If the worker only works for short periods, theyre a contractorFact: Just because work is short term or irregular makes no difference and will not make your worker a contractor for a job. The working arrangement determines whether they are an employee or a contractor, not the amount of time they work for you.Myth #3: If others in my industry are doing the same, then my worker is a contractorFact: Industry practices make no difference and will not make any of your workers a contractor for a job. Dont assume other businesses have worked it out correctly its your working arrangement that determines if your workers are employees or contractors.Myth 4: If the contract or agreement says so, the worker is a contractorFact: A contact or agreement makes no difference and will not make your worker a contractor for a job. If the working arrangement is employment, a contract or agreement stating the worker is a contractor wont override this employment arrangement or change the obligations you need to meet.Myth #5: If the worker submits an invoice, they are a contractorFact: Submitting an invoice for work done or being 'paid on invoice' makes no difference and will not make your worker a contractor for a job. The working arrangement determines whether they are an employee or a contractor, not whether they submit an invoice. Two former Disney IT workers spoke at a Donald Trump campaign rally on Sunday, telling about the shock of having to train their foreign replacements. It's hard to recall any presidential campaign, in any year, that has given IT workers this type of visibility. But Trump, the businessman now seeking the Republican nomination, has made H-1B reforms a part of his platform. Speaking at the large rally in Madison, Ala. was Dena Moore, a former Disney IT worker who trained her foreign replacement. Around 200 to 300 other Disney IT workers lost their jobs as part of an IT outsourcing shift. Moore warned that Disney's action is a bad signal. "Other companies look up to them and they follow and model their behavior," she said. IT workers are generally reluctant to take a public stand on visa policy issues. They worry about hurting future IT job prospects. Non-disparagement clauses in severance agreements also limit their involvement. Moore noted the problem. IT workers "are afraid, they're in shock," she told the cheering crowd. "They're not coming forward because we have been taught all our lives to make do and keep going on. But you know what? This little old grandma is going to stand up for what's right. "The fact is that Americans are losing their jobs to foreigners," said Moore. "I believe Mr. Trump is for Americans first." U.S. Sen. Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) appeared as well at the rally, and endorsed Trump for the GOP nomination. Sessions is a leading Senate H-1B reformer. Also appearing with Moore was Leo Perrero, who testified last week on the H-1B visa program before the Senate Subcommittee on Immigration. Both Perrero and Moore are suing Disney and the IT contractors it hired and were joined at the rally by their attorney, Sara Blackwell. She blamed "corporate greed" for IT offshoring. The rally was held in advance of this week's Super Tuesday primary voting in a number of states, including Alabama. Most of the ire from Trump was directed at rival Sen. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), who supports efforts to raise the H-1B cap. "What a great disappointment Marco Rubio is," said Moore. U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), who is also seeking the Republican nomination along with Rubio, has reversed course. He once supported a major H-1B cap increase and is now co-sponsoring reform legislation with Sessions. Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who is seeking the Democratic nomination for president, has said little about the H-1B visa. Unlike Trump, she doesn't address it in her platform. But Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.), who is also seeking the Democratic nod, has been a critic of the H-1B visa. Abbott Labs, a global healthcare company, is laying off about 180 IT employees after signing an agreement with Wipro, a major India-based IT services firm, to take over some IT services. The employees were told about the planned cuts on Feb. 22; their last day will be April 22. The workers are expecting to train their replacements, possibly workers on H-1B and other temporary visas. Abbott is based in Illinois, which is also the home of U.S. Sen. Dick Durbin, a Democrat who has been a longtime advocate for H-1B reforms and a co-sponsor of legislation with another visa reformer, Sen. Chuck Grassley (R-Iowa). In a letter Monday to Abbott CEO Miles White, Durbin implored him "to reconsider this plan and retain these U.S. workers." Dubin noted that he has "repeatedly introduced bipartisan legislation to end the exploitation of the H-1B and L-1 visa programs to displace qualified American workers and offshore American jobs." Last year, for instance, he led a bipartisan group of 10 senators calling on federal agencies to investigate the layoffs at Southern California Edison and at other firms. Some IT workers at the utility complained of having to train replacements who were on H-1B visas. "While this practice is unlawful, loopholes in existing law make it difficult for the federal government to hold violators accountable," said Durbin. "I will continue to push for legislation to reform the H-1B and L-1 visa programs, but the gaps in current law are no excuse for your company to treat your employees so unfairly. It should go without saying that such harsh and insensitive conduct is not justified by whatever marginal financial benefit might accrue to your company, which is already making billions of dollars in profits every year." Sara Blackwell, a Florida attorney who is representing some former Disney IT employees in a similar situation, has been in touch with the affected IT workers and Durbin's office as well. "The first goal is to stop the termination," said Blackwell, who is hoping to focus attention on the Abbott layoff. Blackwell mentioned the layoff at a rally held by GOP presidential contender Donald Trump Sunday in Madison, Alabama. Blackwell, along with two laid-off Disney IT workers, spoke at the rally held by the billionaire businessman. With enough attention, it's possible "we can save 180 jobs and that's my goal," said Blackwell. The IT employees at Abbott are distraught, said one IT worker who spoke on condition of anonymity. "Everybody is under tremendous pressure," the worker said, noting that colleagues are are depressed, angry and worried about losing homes and paying medical expenses. "All the big companies are sending jobs to India -- how are we going to find a job at another company?" said the IT worker. "It's going on everywhere. Nobody is stopping it." Asked about the layoff plans, Abbott Labs spokesman Scott Stoffel said via email: Abbott regularly evaluates its competitive position and makes changes that reflect the strategic needs of its business. We recently outsourced some IT capabilities. Were retaining the vast majority of our U.S.-based IT jobs." Meanwhile, job ads are being posted inside the company to fill IT jobs, and each ad points out that an H-1B worker may be hired for the position. "It looks like most of the jobs will go to India," the anonymous IT employee said. Many of the workers are over 40 years old, according to documents seen by Computerworld that describe their positions and ages. About two years ago, application support was offshored to two other firms, IBM and Cognizant, and IT employees were cut after training replacements, this IT worker said. The severance being offered includes six weeks of pay, plus a week of pay for each completed year of service. As the Abbott layoff plans were unfolding last week, the Senate Judiciary Committee received sworn testimony about what was happening; Durbin's staff spoke with Abbott IT workers, who confirmed the cuts. The severance agreement includes a non-disparagement clause that may make it difficult for employees to talk publicly about what happened. It also requires employees not to sue, including any legal action under the Federal Age Discrimination Employment Act. Newsletter Keywords: Aging Society Civil Society / Local Issues Newsletter Population Decline Renewable Energy JFS Newsletter No.162 (February 2016) Itoshiro is a village located in Gujo City, Gifu Prefecture, right next to Fukui Prefecture. People have been living in this district since the Jomon period (from approximately 14,000 to 3,000 years ago). Until around 1964, its population was about 1,200, but over the following 50 years it dropped to less than one fourth that, with only 250 persons in 100 households. Itoshiro is located at an altitude of around 700 meters; thus, it is cool and comfortable in summer, but the weather is harsh in winter with several meters of snowfall. That is why villagers have long cooperated with each other to support their lives and the village. Itoshiro is also a village where Mt. Hakusan, a sacred mountain, is worshipped. From the Heian period to the Kamakura period (from around 794 to 1333) when the worship of Mt. Hakusan was particularly active, many people such as ascetic Buddhist monks, are said to have come to the village from all around Japan and settled there. Therefore, Itoshiro has traditionally been open to out-of-town people, despite being a remote village. That may be why the village's atmosphere is one in which people welcome even strangers and do not interfere with each other, which makes it a comfortable place to live for people who have settled there from other places. In the past, no river flowed through the village, so local people grew common millet and foxtail millet in their barnyards. Then, in the Meiji period (1868 - 1912), they built a three-kilometer hand-dug canal to divert water from a river, and this enabled them to grow rice in paddies. Since then, villagers have cooperated in cleaning out the agricultural canals before flooding rice fields in spring and after harvesting rice in autumn. In this way, they have operated and maintained the canals by themselves. From the Taisho period (1912 - 1926) to 1955, there was an electric power utilization union in the village, and water wheels powered by water diverted from a valley through these canals were used to run a timber mill in the daytime and for residential electricity in the evening. When light bulbs would grow dim at night, someone in the village would go to a water wheel to clean it out, and the lights would grow brighter again. In this way, villagers have created, operated and maintained the canals by themselves, providing themselves with water for paddies and electric power. In 2007, a non-profit organization (NPO), established by young people in their 20s from Gifu Prefecture to revitalize regional development, went from village to village in the area upstream of Gujo City to encourage villagers to launch micro-hydropower generation projects, and people in Itoshiro responded positively. The NPO promoted micro-hydropower generation based on the idea that, in the past, money circulated within each community, whereas at present money flows out because people purchase things coming from outside. One of the largest purchase items is energy. Generating electric power within communities may help restore value to farms, mountains, and villages, at the same time helping solve global environmental and energy problems. The villagers of Itoshiro decided to launch micro-hydropower generation, not because they were interested in the energy itself but because they were afraid that if the situation remained unchanged, their community would disappear. Three water wheels for micro-hydropower generation were installed in Itoshiro in the summer of 2007, but as it turned out they were not very useful. Therefore, NPO members searched for advice and undertook independent study so as to find a more practical design. As a result, in June 2009, a spiral water turbine for run-of-river power generation was installed in a canal running beside rice paddies to generate power for a single household. The power supplies a private house that is also used as the office for a local non-profit organization called "Yasuragi-no-Sato Itoshiro (Peaceful Village Itoshiro)," standing just across the road from the water wheel. It's amazing that a head as low as only 50 centimeters allows for generation of enough power to supply a whole household. In June 2011, another water wheel was installed beside a food processing factory, which had been closed because of high electricity costs. This installation generated 2.2 kilowatts of power, taking advantage of a head of three meters. The factory restarted operation, creating a place to work for four people for 6 months a year to produce processed food items using sweet corn, a village specialty. These locally produced food items are served at a cafe operated by local women. This cafe opens usually only on weekends, but started to offer lunch on a reservation basis on weekdays. Recently the number of people visiting the village to observe their micro-hydropower systems is increasing, but there is no place for them to have lunch. In spring, when the cafe receives lunch reservations, local women operating the cafe go to a nearby mountain together to gather edible wild plants. "If our activities only deal with energy, it will be difficult to win sympathy from the community. But if power generation can be connected to an interest of local people or something else they want to do, we can receive much more understanding and cooperation from them," said Akihide Hirano, who has been a driving force of community activities in the village. He became involved in community activities in Itoshiro in 2007 and settled in the village in 2011. A piece of good news is that the number of people relocating from other areas is now increasing. Ten households with 25 members are incomers who have relocated from other areas to this village with its population of 250. In this year, four babies are to be born in the village. "We are having a baby boom here," smiled Hirano. The two micro-hydropower generators presently installed in Itoshiro are not connected to a grid because the power is not for sale but for in-house consumption. Both generators were constructed by local builders/technicians, and local people well-versed in electric control systems manually developed the control panels. The keyword in Itoshiro is "Let local people do what they can do." This allows local people to fix the generators on their own in case they break down. These two power generators are owned by the Regional Renaissance Agency (RRA), an NPO which Hirano belongs to, and managed by the Yasuragi-no-Sato Itoshiro on commission from the RRA. Gifu Prefecture touts itself as a "Land of Clean Waters," and the prefecture is certainly blessed with rich water resources. It was in fact officials from the prefectural government who approached the community in Itoshiro about generating power with a micro-hydropower system utilizing an irrigation canal in the village. At the beginning, local people were not very enthusiastic about the project and indeed found out later that all the profit from selling power generated by these systems would go to the governments (national, prefectural and municipal) in exchange for funding 100 percent of the cost for the systems. Some local people claimed that the plan should be abolished if the systems utilizing the local canal, which local residents have maintained since the late 18th century, would not benefit the community. In the end, however, the community decided to accept the project on the condition that it would also take part in the funding so that profits would be returned to the community, although this was a risk for the community. The result was a decision to divert the irrigation canal to make two channels and begin micro-hydropower generation at two places. One is mainly for the prefecture to provide power for 80 households. A power distribution ceremony was held on June 1, 2015. Copyright Regional Renaissance Agency All Rights Reserved. The other is for generating power for the Itoshiro community. The total construction cost of the power station was 240 million yen (about U.S.$2 million) and Itoshiro needs to bear 60 million yen (about U.S.$500,000), the amount after subsidies, etc. are deducted. The chairperson of the neighborhood community association and 16 other persons became promoters, held discussions for a half year as to how they should raise funds for this investment and decided to ask residents of the district for contributions. They explained the proposal to each of the one hundred households, saying, "Our community's ancestors built the irrigation canal for the sake of their descendants. For the sake of our descendants we will build a power station." As a result, almost all households decided to make a contribution and the necessary amount of money was collected. To manage the collected funds, the Irrigation Canal Agricultural Cooperative was established in April 2014. Operation of the power stations is scheduled to start in June 2016. Although it is expected that the station will make an annual profit of approximately 20 million yen (about US$167,000) by selling electricity, this profit will be used not for dividends to the investors, but for agriculture promotion projects in the community, including training sessions on farming, support to food-processing factories and development of new products. Operation of the power stations is scheduled to start in June 2016. Although it is expected that the station will make an annual profit of approximately 20 million yen (about US$167,000) by selling electricity, this profit will be used not for dividends to the investors, but for agriculture promotion projects in the community, including training sessions on farming, support to food-processing factories and development of new products. Hirano said, "Micro-hydropower generation facilities using spiral water turbines, etc. are reliable as independent facilities where power is generated and used on the spot and suitable for environmental education since we can directly watch them work. However, from the viewpoint of bringing money back into local circulation, it will be necessary to generate and sell power on a larger scale in order to return profits to the region. For this reason, we decided to build a power station to generate income to support projects in the community by selling power. Having this station means we can pay management costs to clean and otherwise maintain the water canal. Cleaning the water channels stabilizes the flow, and this profits local agriculture as well as the independent micro-hydropower generation facilities. Since the Itoshiro community is rich in water and has uneven land, I believe that many independent micro-hydropower generation facilities will be built in various places." This system in which hydropower generation station supports local projects could develop into an instructive example informing local residents elsewhere who wish to club together to start micro-hydropower generation using water canals that have been maintained over the years to generate profits for agricultural promotion in their region. It could also help promote independent micro-hydropower generation facilities designed to generate power for local residents' homes and workplaces. Another brilliant pattern could be launched from here! Copyright Regional Renaissance Agency All Rights Reserved. Written by Junko Edahiro "Captain America: Civil War" promised one thing and that is an ultimately interesting plot for the viewers of the Marvel Cinematic Universe movie. Raging war and clash of power are expected as the movie entails the division of two superhero giants- Iron Man and Captain America. But aside from the whole chaos that moviegoers will experience in the big screen, the emergence of Tom Holland in the movie as Spider-Man takes the story into a whole new level. Tom Holland as the new Spider- Man gives in a new plight for the characters in the upcoming movie "Captain America: Civil War." As previously hinted, the emergence of Holland in the movie indicates to be after a division was made between Ironman and Captain America. Spider-Man's Holland is rumored to be the presumed ally of Iron Man after the said ordeal. Although it was also indicated in the past that Holland's role in the MCU movie will be little, what are the other roles we can expect from the 19-year-old actor aside from getting by as the new comrade of Iron Man? WhatCulture hinted that Spider-Man's character emerges in the storyline of the movie. The first thing that trips into this idea is that the web-crawler actually is a member of the first Avenger league. As the outlet pointed out, "Starting off with one of the more basic scenarios, the idea here is pretty simple: Spider-Man joins Bucky, Scarlet Witch, Hawkeye, Ant-Man, and Falcon on Team Cap, aligning himself with the First Avenger." Plainly, another reason why Spider-Man is expected in "Captain America: Civil War" is due to his high involvement in the Socovia Accords. Socovia Accords were initialized after the destruction that was brought by "Age of Ultron." Initially before things happened, Spider-Man and the other superheroes caused a great destruction on earth and thus the people created the Socovia Accords to fight back the effects of the war. Practically, "Iron Man 2" boast the appearance of "Spider Man" as a young kid and in that movie, there are degrees in which shows how the young lad looks up to Iron-Man as his mentor. With that in mind, the outlet suggested that Spider-Man becoming an ally of Iron Man is no question at all. Catch "Captain America: Civil War" in theaters on May 6, 2016. Email Links to our top local news stories of the day, Monday through Saturday. WASHINGTON Senate Republicans say they will refuse to have a hearing for President Obamas nominee to fill the Supreme Court vacancy. So Democrats on Wednesday took matters into their own hands: They held a hearing all by themselves. A dozen members of the Senate minority assembled on the dais in an ornate hearing room in the Russell Senate Office Building. They used their official nameplates Ms. Klobuchar, Ms. Warren, Mr. Cardin and they had cardboard name cards for the witnesses, a quartet of law professors. They put out a media advisory and hung an official-looking sign at the door. They filled the public seats in the audience with staffers and other extras, distributed written testimony for the press and even had a C-SPAN crew on hand to film the proceedings. Sen. Richard Blumenthal of Connecticut, arriving late, made himself at home in one of the empty seats typically occupied by the majority party, prompting Sen. Al Franken of Minnesota, the former comedian, to tattle to Madam Chair. I think Senator Blumenthal is sitting on the Republican side, he reported. Without actual Republicans, the hearing became an echo chamber, as lawmakers lobbed what Madam Chair Sen. Amy Klobuchar of Minnesota admitted were softball questions and witnesses gave emphatic concurrence. Are the Republicans violating the Constitution? asked Sen. Mazie Hirono of Hawaii. I would say they are violating the Constitution, replied University of Chicago law professor Geoff Stone. Sen. Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts piously reminded the audience that for the rest of this year, President Obama is still president of the United States of America. Can I have an amen on that? An amen is about all she can have. Alas for the Democrats, they dont have the power to hold a real hearing. Klobuchar is in charge only of the Democratic Steering and Outreach Committee, a party apparatus that doesnt have real committee powers. Klobuchar herself has been mentioned as one of the possible nominees for the Supreme Court vacancy. But given the way the eventual nominee is likely to be treated, the president might instead consider nominating Klobuchars Minnesota colleague Franken, who isnt a lawyer but can appreciate farce. Democrats have no authority to force the Republican majority to vote on Obamas eventual nominee, or even to hold a hearing. But they think they can make Republicans pay a political price for their reflexive decision not to hold a hearing for an Obama nominee. GOP leaders said Wednesday they would stick to that position even if Obama were to nominate Brian Sandoval, the Republican governor of Nevada. Polls indicate the GOP position which goes well beyond the more defensible position of voting down Obamas eventual nominee both stirs up the Democratic base and offends independent voters. The incoming Democratic Senate leader, Chuck Schumer of New York, said Wednesday that this is going to be the dominant issue for the remainder of the year, overshadowing anything that may happen on the Senate floor. To guarantee that, Democrats will launch all manner of stunts and theatrics. On Wednesday, Democratic staffers and liberal activists assembled an impressive arsenal of props in a Capitol basement and called in reporters. There were six boxes containing, they said, printouts of 1.3 million electronic signatures of a petition demanding action on the Supreme Court vacancy. There were also nine posters telling Senate Republicans to Do your job and Follow the Constitution, along with four U.S. flags, four senators and eight earnest activists posing for photos with the props. A moment of silence for the trees, requested liberal activist Adam Green as they posed with the massive printout. There will, evidently, be little silence as Democrats try to make Republicans own the obstructionist label in November. Senate Republicans are giving a middle finger to the American people and giving a middle finger to this president, Sen. Chris Murphy of Connecticut said at the news conference. That was the unanimous view at the Democrats faux hearing Wednesday afternoon, where witnesses and senators alike talked about the unconscionable and lawless and unprecedented acts of the Republicans. Its tyrannical, declared Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania. (There were no Republicans on hand to point out that Vice President Biden in 1992 took a position very similar to the current Republican stance.) But what recourse do Democrats have other than shouting and hoping for revenge in November? Hirono put the question to one of the witnesses, Georgetowns Peter Edelman: What is the remedy? Guantanamo, he deadpanned. Its a thought. 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. The Wisconsin Voter The Journal Sentinel's Craig Gilbert explores political trends in a purple state and beyond. SHARE By of the Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump says he can win in November by attracting blue-collar Democrats to his populist campaign and making key inroads in the blue and purple battlegrounds of the industrial Midwest. But in the blue-collar, Midwest battleground of Wisconsin, there is no evidence for that in the polling so far. Theres no sign that Trump has crossover appeal to Democratic voters. Theres little sign he has much appeal to independents, either. And there is little sign he has more appeal to either Democrats or independents than do his top two GOP rivals, Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz. If anything, the polling suggests Trump is less electable in the fall than those two Republicans, not more so. At some point, this all could change. Polling this early about the November election can be a terrible predictor, especially when its done before the parties nominees are chosen. But the polling so far in Wisconsin and nationally offers little or no evidence for Trumps core electability argument: that he has a special ability to grow the GOP coalition by siphoning off disaffected Democrats. The polling is also a reminder in this polarized political era of how difficult it is for any candidate on either side to attract presidential voters from the other party. Heres the electability argument that Trump made on Feb. 17 at a town hall meeting on MSNBC: If I get the nomination, I will have more crossover votes than anybody thats ever run for office. I will have Democrat votes. I will have independent votes. I will do tremendously with crossover ... I will have states that nobody ever thought of getting in terms of a Republican, said Trump, who mentioned New York, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Ohio as states he would definitely win or have a great chance to win. Wisconsin is not on that list, but its a far more plausible state than New York for a Republican to win and has come closer to voting Republican for president than Michigan in recent cycles. It also has a much higher share than most states of white working-class voters, a group that is Trumps demographic base. Is there any sign that Trump is making inroads with either Democrats or independents in this notable blue-collar battleground? In a word, no. In a statewide poll released Thursday by the Marquette University Law School, Trump gets 8.5% of the Democratic vote in a matchup with Hillary Clinton and 6.3% in a matchup with Bernie Sanders. These are skimpy but fairly typical levels of crossover support in a presidential campaign in our partisan times. Trumps Democratic support is not statistically distinguishable from what Cruz and Rubio are getting in the same poll (its roughly one percentage point better). But Trumps image among Democratic voters is measurably worse than theirs: almost nine in 10 Wisconsin Democrats 86% -- view Trump unfavorably, compared to 63% for Cruz and 57% for Rubio. What about Trumps standing with independent voters? About two-thirds of independent voters in Wisconsin say they are uncomfortable with the idea of Trump as president. Among independent voters here, Trumps positive rating (the percentage who view him favorably) is 22%, and his negative rating is 66% easily the worst of the GOP contenders. Trump loses independents in the Wisconsin poll by 14 percentage points to Clinton, much worse than Cruz and Rubio do. And while Rubio and Cruz are competitive with Clinton in hypothetical November matchups, Trump loses by double-digits (all three Republicans run far behind Sanders). Trumps problem in these polls is not just his standing with independents. His support in his own party is also softer than that of his GOP rivals. These patterns are one reason why anti-Trump Republicans in Wisconsin are so freaked out about a Trump nomination. Assembly Majority Leader and Rubio supporter Jim Steineke tweeted about Trumps big deficits against Clinton and Sanders in the Marquette poll: This potential nominee would destroy WI Republicans down ballot if this were to hold. But these kinds of findings arent limited to this one survey. You can find the same patterns in Marquettes polling from last January and last November. Nor is there much sign in national polls of Trumps crossover appeal. In a recent national poll by Fox News, Trump did slightly worse than Cruz and Rubio in drawing Democratic support (he gets about 9%). In a recent national poll by Quinnipiac, he got 8% of the Democratic vote virtually the same as Cruz and Rubio. In most national polls, Trump is doing worse than Cruz and Rubio when pitted against Clinton. And in a recent Quinnipiac poll in Ohio the most important Midwest battleground of all Trump does no better than Cruz or Rubio against Clinton. He does a few points better than they do with Democratic voters, but 10 or 12 points worse than they do with Republican voters. Could this picture improve for Trump if he is the nominee? Sure. The election is many months away. Trump has done better in the Republican primaries than early polls predicted, a reminder of how things can change in campaigns. Trump has also taken stands that may appeal to Democratic voters on entitlements, trade and the Iraq War. Many expect him to move to the center in a general election campaign. But that could lose Trump as many Republicans as he gains Democrats. And Trump has also taken stands and used rhetoric that are anathema to most Democrats. Typically, candidates dont gain support from the other party as the election approaches they lose it, because partisan lines harden. Trump is right in suggesting that flipping a few key, blue-leaning Great Lakes battlegrounds Michigan, Pennsylvania, Wisconsin is a great formula for Republicans to recapture the White House. But there is little in the polls so far that suggests hes their best bet to do it. Follow Craig Gilbert on Twitter @WisVoter SHARE An undated handout photo of Omar Khadr, taken before he was imprisoned in 2002 at the age of 15. His story is the focus of Guantanamos Child: Omar Khadr, the first of five movies showing at the 2016 Milwaukee Muslim Film Festival. Associated Press By of the The second annual Milwaukee Muslim Film Festival begins Thursday with "Guantanamo's Child: Omar Khadr," a documentary about a Canadian citizen captured in Afghanistan in 2002, convicted at age 15 and imprisoned for a decade at Guantanamo Bay. The movie showing at 7 p.m. Thursday at UWM Union Cinema, 2200 E. Kenwood Blvd. is the first of five showing in this year's film festival through April 20. Admission to the opening-night screening is $8, free for UWM students. As with the inaugural festival last year, this year's lineup is diverse. Other screenings in this year's festival: March 24: "Journey Into Europe," a documentary in which Islamic scholar and former Pakistani ambassador Akbar Ahmed traces the role of Islam in Europe's history. 7 p.m., UWM Union Cinema; $8, free for UWM students. April 3: Encore screening of "Guantanamo's Child: Omar Khadr." 2 p.m., Lubar Auditorium at Milwaukee Art Museum, 700 N. Art Museum Drive; $8. April 7: "Al Helm: Martin Luther King in Palestine." Documentary follows an African-American gospel choir touring in the West Bank, as part of a show about Martin Luther King Jr. and nonviolence. 7 p.m., UWM Union Cinema; $8, free for UWM students. Also showing at 2 p.m. April 17 at Lubar Auditorium; $8. April 14: "The Idol." Drama recounts the story of Mohammed Assaf, who went from a refugee camp in Gaza to win the "Arab Idol" singing competition; directed by Hany Abu-Assad (Oscar-nominated "Paradise Now"). In Arabic with English subtitles. 7 p.m., Oriental Theatre, 2230 N. Farwell Ave.; $10. April 20: "Bilal." An animated tale of a boy with dreams of being a warrior, who faces a different sort of test when he and his sister are abducted and taken to a cruel land. 10 a.m., Oriental Theatre, 2230 N. Farwell Ave.; $8. Also showing at 7 p.m. April 21 at the Oriental; $10. Talk-backs follow each screening. The Milwaukee Muslim Film Festival is organized by the Milwaukee Muslim Women's Coalition. For more on the festival, go mmfilmfest.com. Mark Rylance, shown at a Television Critics Association press tour in 2015, won the Oscar for best supporting actor for Bridge of Spies. Credit: Frederick M. Brown SHARE Production designer Adam Stockhausen, who won an Oscar in 2015 for best production design for The Grand Budapest Hotel, was nominated this year for Bridge of Spies. Frazer Harrison Mark Ruffalo speaks at the Film Independent Spirit Awards Saturday, Feb. 27, 2016, in Santa Monica, Calif. Ruffalo was nominated for best supporting actor for his performance in Spotlight. Chris Pizzello By of the For only the second time in history, two actors with Wisconsin ties competed for an Academy Award. And, for the second time, one of them won. Mark Rylance, the Britain-born actor who went to University School of Milwaukee, took home the Oscar Sunday night for best supporting actor for his performance as the laconic Soviet spy Rudolf Abel in "Bridge of Spies." He won over Kenosha native Mark Ruffalo, nominated for "Spotlight," and the sentimental favorite, Sylvester Stallone, nominated for reprising the role of Rocky Balboa in "Creed." Earlier in the night, Adam Stockhausen, the Marquette University alum who won the Oscar last year for best production design for "The Grand Budapest Hotel," lost in the category to the creative team on "Mad Max: Fury Road." In 1932, Racine native Fredric March won an Oscar for best actor for his performance in "Dr. Jekyll & Mr. Hyde," tying with Wallace Beery, who won for "The Champ." Stage legend Alfred Lunt, who made his home in Genesee Depot at Ten Chimneys, was nominated for "The Guardsman," but lost. Editor's note: An earlier version of this story incorrectly said neither Rylance nor Ruffalo won. Mark Ruffalo reacts in the audience after Spotlight won best picture at the Academy Awards on Sunday. The Kenosha native also was nominated for best supporting actor for his performance as a Boston Globe investigative journalist in the film. Credit: Associated Press By and Los Angeles In a long ceremony with few upsets, "Spotlight" pulled one off at the end, winning the Academy Award for best picture Sunday night, edging out the front-runner "The Revenant," which took home awards for best director and best actor. "Spotlight," about The Boston Globe investigative unit that dug into the Catholic Church sex abuse scandal, also won the Oscar for best original screenplay. The night's other big upset went to University School of Milwaukee alum Mark Rylance, who knocked out sentimental favorite Sylvester Stallone for best supporting actor. Rylance won for his role as Soviet spy Rudolf Abel in Steven Spielberg's "Bridge of Spies"; Stallone had been nominated as the aging, ailing Rocky Balboa in "Creed." "The Revenant's" star, Leonardo DiCaprio, and director, Alejandro G. Inarritu, both had been favorites to win, as was best actress winner Brie Larson, who won for her performance in "Room." Mostly, though, it was Chris Rock's night. Dressed in a white tuxedo, he launched into the 88th Academy Awards "the White People's Choice Awards" with a much-anticipated monologue that confronted head-on the uproar over the lack of diversity in this year's nominees. For the second consecutive year, all 20 of the acting nominees were white. Rock returned to the topic throughout the show. ("We're black," he said after a commercial break.) "Is Hollywood racist? You're damn right it's racist," said Rock, who also sought to put the issue in perspective. "Hollywood is sorority racist. It's like: We like you Rhonda, but you're not a Kappa." Rock had stayed quiet as the controversy raged over the second straight year of all-white acting nominees, leaving Hollywood and viewers eagerly awaiting his one-liners. He confessed he deliberated over joining the boycott of the Oscars and bowing out as host, but concluded: "The last thing I need is to lose another job to Kevin Hart." Hollywood's lack of diversity often overshadowed the actual awards, though "Mad Max: Fury Road" did its best to command the spotlight. Early in the awards telecast, George Miller's post-apocalyptic chase film took in six awards in technical categories for editing, makeup, production design, sound editing, sound mixing and costume design. "Mad Max's" haul the biggest of the night was an anomaly. After "The Revenant," with three awards, and "Spotlight" with two, the rest of the night's Oscars were spread among the field, with eight movies each earning one award. "The Revenant's" other award went to Emmanuel Lubezki, who became the first cinematographer to win three times in a row (following wins for "Gravity" and "Birdman") and only the seventh to three-peat in Oscar history. In addition to Stallone, Rylance the only winner for best picture nominee "Bridge of Spies" won out over another actor with Wisconsin ties: Kenosha native Mark Ruffalo, who was nominated for "Spotlight." The night's other nominee with Wisconsin ties, Marquette University alum Adam Stockhausen and nominee for "Bridge of Spies," lost in the production design category he won last year (for "The Grand Budapest Hotel"). The Academy Awards were charged with enough politics and uncertainty to rival an election debate. Adam McKay, who shared an Oscar for his screenplay for "The Big Short," gave an election-year warning to the power of "big money" and "weirdo billionaires" in the presidential campaign. DiCaprio, citing the lengths "The Revenant" had to go to find a snowy landscape to film in last year, said in his acceptance speech: "Climate change is real. It is happening right now. It is the most urgent threat facing our entire species. ... Let us not take our planet for granted. I do not take tonight for granted." Down the street from the Dolby Theatre, the Rev. Al Sharpton led several dozen demonstrators in protest against a second straight year of all-white acting nominees. "This will be the last night of an all-white Oscars," Sharpton vowed at the rally. The nominees restored "#OscarsSoWhite" to prominence and led Spike Lee (an honorary Oscar winner this year) and Jada Pinkett Smith to announce that they would not attend the show. Aside from pleading for more opportunity for black actors, Rock also sought to add perspective to the turmoil. Rock said this year didn't differ much from Oscar history, but black people in earlier decades were "too busy being raped and lynched to worry about who won best cinematographer." Former U.S. Sen. and current Democratic Senate candidate Russ Feingold is emphasizing his opposion to the Trans- Pacific Partnership trade deal in this years Senate race. Credit: Journal Sentinel files By of the Madison In the race for the U.S. Senate, trade is yet another issue that separates the candidates. On Monday, Democratic challenger Russ Feingold called on Republican incumbent U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson to follow his lead and oppose the Trans-Pacific Partnership, a trade deal negotiated by President Barack Obama's administration and 11 Pacific-Rim countries. "My opponent said he needs more time to review it. More time for what? If the Trans-Pacific Partnership will only do more damage to Wisconsin communities, what does he need to know?" Feingold told labor leaders gathered at the Wisconsin State Council of Machinists Conference. In early February during an appearance at Marquette University, Johnson expressed support for free trade in general because "it does lift all boats," but kept his options open on whether he'll back the Trans-Pacific Partnership. With a business background in manufacturing, Johnson has said trade deals can create good-paying jobs for Wisconsinites. Feingold has long courted labor union support and voted against trade agreements during his three terms in the U.S. Senate, including the North American Free Trade Agreement. He claimed deals like NAFTA upended families and "gutted" Wisconsin's middle class. He tried to make trade an issue in the 2010 race but failed as he lost to Johnson. Congress is poised for a bruising fight on the deal. Last summer, Johnson voted with many other Republicans in giving Obama authority to fast-track negotiations. Key Democrats have come out against the deal, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, who moved to the left on the issue amid the presidential primary challenge of U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont. Donald Trump, the New York businessman and Republican Party presidential front-runner, has said trade deals have cost the United States millions of jobs. During this year's campaign, Feingold and Johnson have launched long-range volleys over trade. Johnson has chided Feingold for his quick rejection of the Trans-Pacific deal. "This is an agreement of thousands of pages, and trust me, incredibly complex provisions," Johnson said during his February appearance at Marquette. "There is good, there is bad." Johnson said he has been reaching out and soliciting "input from all the individuals, businesses, organizations, groups that are going to be affected here in Wisconsin by TPP. I'm not going to come to a snap judgment. I don't know how anybody could do that. How incredibly closed-minded is that?" A Johnson campaign spokesman, Brian Reisinger, said Monday that Feingold "decided months ago to try for cheap political points by condemning this deal before he'd even read it." He added that Johnson "believes the job of a senator is to do his homework and put facts ahead of rhetoric or politics." Feingold said Johnson has had more than enough time to stake out a position on the Pacific trade pact. He said a draft of the agreement was available on the Internet March 25. "I had an opportunity to review that draft and those provisions," he said. "I looked at it carefully and when I announced for the U.S. Senate the first position that I took, based on reviewing the rip-off that occurs in that agreement, was to oppose this agreement." "Senator Johnson has had the opportunity since November to review this agreement that I had already reviewed," Feingold said. "I have no evidence that he looked at it." "It's time for him to take a position," Feingold said of Johnson. "Four months is long enough." By of the Wisconsin Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner and a Texas colleague have called on the FBI to address growing concerns about the use of secret cellphone tracking technology by local police. Sensenbrenner, a Republican, said the lawmakers' letter to FBI Director James Comey was prompted in part by a Milwaukee Journal Sentinel report this month that revealed Milwaukee police used cell tower-mimicking devices called Stingrays, and had to sign agreements with the FBI not to reveal that fact, even to judges, without written approval from the FBI. The suitcase-size devices can find phones even when they're not in use, or when they have location privacy enabled. They can locate a phone within a few feet, but also pull in information from all non-target phones within the Stingray's reach. Privacy advocates estimate at least 50 state and local law enforcement agencies have the technology, originally developed for military and national security use, and that many use it without getting search warrants. "We are not prejudging the outcome of the debate over the use of Stingray technology, but we categorically denounce the use of nondisclosure agreements that limit the ability of the public and of courts to debate the merits of the technology and to implement limits they may deem appropriate," the letter reads. The letter, also signed by U.S. Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee, a Democrat, asks Comey whether the FBI considers local and state agencies bound by nondisclosure agreements signed as conditions of getting the powerful technology. It also asks how many such agreements have been signed, whether the FBI has required such agreements for other technology and how often the FBI has requested local police and prosecutors to dismiss a case rather than reveal the role of Stingrays. In a separate statement to the Journal Sentinel, Sensenbrenner said the federal government needs to be more forthright with Wisconsin residents. "While Stingray technology is a powerful tool that helps intelligence agencies and law enforcement find wrongdoers, it should not have been deployed on our streets under a veil of secrecy," Sensenbrenner said. "The FBI's refusal to allow the Milwaukee Police Department to disclose its use of Stingrays has subjected the department to needless lawsuits and deprived Wisconsin residents of their right to know how law enforcement is operating in their communities." Jackson Lee said it's wrong to "put gag orders" on police agencies and said the FBI should immediately replace any nondisclosure agreements with "guidance mandating that local police get probable cause warrants" before using Stingrays. The lawmakers' letter asks Comey to respond by March 26. Since 2013, about a dozen states have adopted requirements for search warrants to track cellphones, and others have introduced similar legislation. Wisconsin's law says a warrant should be granted if investigators show the phone tracking will provide "information relevant to an ongoing criminal investigation," a lower standard than usually required for a search warrant. Some federal agencies have adopted that as a policy, but there is no statutory requirement. Sensenbrenner and Jackson Lee's letter says that it's still unclear whether the policies mean the FBI has rescinded nondisclosure agreements. Laurence Dupuis, legal director for the ACLU of Wisconsin Foundation, applauded the Sensenbrenner-Jackson Lee letter. "I think it's spot on about the secrecy in which these devices have been shrouded, and how that secrecy undermines public and court scrutiny of the privacy implications of their seemingly widespread use." The ACLU and the Electronic Frontier Foundation filed a friend of court brief to the 7th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals in a case seeking a clear statement on whether police need a traditional search warrant before they use Stingray-type devices to track cellphones. Construction equipment rolls down eastbound I-94 in 2014 during a full highway closure for the Zoo Interchange project. More ramp closures are coming in 2016 as the project progresses. Credit: Mark Hoffman SHARE By of the Congratulations you made it to March. And your reward, with spring on the horizon? Road construction season. Although the most significant work is still a ways off, the state Department of Transportation already is gearing up for new ramp and street closures related to the massive Zoo Interchange project. A lane closure on I-94 eastbound, another heading north into the Zoo Interchange and more ramp closures within the interchange itself are some of the top changes this year. All of which is a way of saying: Expect bigger backups on roads that already are clogged with traffic during rush hour, so plan ahead and be patient. Those backups could reach one to two miles in the worst stretches and add 10 to 15 minutes to commutes, the DOT's southeast freeways construction chief, Ryan Luck, said Monday. Part of the DOT's plan has been to improve surface roads around the interchange during the project's earlier phases, and that should help ease some of the congestion when the latest closures on the highways take effect. Drivers, too, deserve plenty of credit for adjusting well to the traffic changes, Luck said. "Our folks in Milwaukee have proved to be pretty resilient, pretty savvy," he said. The DOT has been holding "transportation fairs" to answer questions people may have about the project, closures and detours. The latest fair was Monday in West Allis, which could get hit hard by the ramp closures. "We were told that this will probably be the worst summer of traffic having to detour through the city," Ald. Michael May told West Allis Now. The biggest headaches, though, may be the ones awaiting drivers heading from Waukesha County toward downtown Milwaukee, and from the Hale Interchange north. By next week, the DOT plans to reduce I-94 eastbound from three to two lanes past Elm Grove Road. The "zipper merge" is expected to add to delays on that stretch of the highway. The DOT's recommended detour is to exit at Moreland Road and take Bluemound Road or Greenfield Ave. east. A similar lane drop is planned for I-41/I-894 north to the Zoo Interchange from National Avenue. That reduction of three lanes to two is scheduled for April, Luck said, and the recommended detour is Highway 100. A busy summer By this summer, three of the Zoo Interchange's eight system ramps the ones that take traffic from one highway to another will be closed at the same time, affecting anyone who regularly uses those routes, as well as drivers who will face backups just trying to continue straight. The main ramp southbound from westbound I-94 to I-41/I-894 already is closed and is expected to remain closed until fall 2017. In addition, the southbound-to-eastbound ramp and the eastbound-to-northbound ramp will close this summer or fall until spring 2017. It's not unprecedented to have three system ramp closures. A similar scenario briefly faced drivers passing through the Zoo Interchange last year. But the ramp coming from the north and heading east onto I-94 is one of the busiest in the Zoo Interchange, Luck said, so the state is committed to limiting that closure to 240 days. It could close anytime after Summerfest in July, or as late as this fall. The exit and entrance ramps at 84th St. should be open by then, and that will help people use alternative routes, Luck said. "We often encourage people to take an alternate route or add some extra time to their commute," Luck said. Luck and other DOT officials greeted dozens of residents Monday afternoon at West Allis City Hall. The residents looked at an approximate 5-by-6 foot scale model of the interchange on display to help them visualize how the construction will affect their daily routines. "I wasn't sure how we were going to get onto 894, Highway 45, on Greenfield Avenue, and then get over to go west on I-94," said West Allis resident George Berger. "It was answered by this display," Berger said. "It's probably more of an inconvenience for us than a big hassle." Said Mary Hart, also of West Allis, "My one ramp's going to be open." "So I'm a happy camper." Major closures Some of the other key closures this year: I-41/I-894: The northbound entrance ramps from Greenfield, Lincoln and National avenues will close until later this year, and short-term closures are set for the northbound entrance ramp from Oklahoma Ave. and the northbound exit ramp to National Ave. Highway 100: The exit from westbound I-94 is closing until October 2017. Then in the summer, the eastbound I-94 exit ramp will close briefly. Greenfield Ave.: This summer, the exit ramp from I-41 northbound will close briefly and the exit ramp from I-41 southbound will close until 2017. 84th and 70th streets: The eastbound I-94 exit ramp will close until early June, and the entrance ramp to eastbound I-94 will closing through late June. The eastbound I-94 exit ramp to 70th St. will be closed until late June. Also, Kearney St. will close from 84th St. to 70th St. until early June. Blue Mound Road: The entrance ramp to northbound I-41 remains closed until late November. The entrance ramp to southbound I-41 and exit ramp from northbound I-41 are closed until late November 2017. Wisconsin Ave.: It remains closed between 95th and 97th streets, where it passes over I-41, until late May 2017. Jesse Garza of the Journal Sentinel staff contributed to this report. For construction updates on this and other projects, go to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation website. SHARE By of the A 28-year-old Sheboygan man is facing possible child neglect charges after his 3-year-old son ate candy laced with marijuana during a birthday party. Authorities were called to Sheboygan Aurora Memorial Medical Center just before 5 p.m. Sunday for a report of a 3-year-old boy who was breathing but minimally responsive in the emergency room, according to a police news release. Tests showed THC was present in the boy's system, and he was taken to Children's Hospital of Wisconsin in Wauwatosa, Sheboygan police said. Investigators learned the boy's family hosted a birthday party on Saturday for another child and during the party, his 28-year-old father and some other guests were using marijuana, according to the news release.. The father had obtained edible marijuana candies in Colorado and left them on the table within reach of the children, police said. After finding the candies missing, the father and mother determined the 3-year-old boy must have eaten them, the news release stated. Sheboygan police referred the father to prosecutors for a possible charge of child neglect causing great bodily harm and referred the child's 25-year-old mother on a possible charge of obstructing an officer. Reddit Email 0 Shares By Golnaz Esfandiari | ( RFE/RL ) | The succession question in Iran has come to the fore recently with the election of a new Assembly of Experts, the 88-member chamber of (male) theologians who pick and nominally oversee the work of the country's supreme leader. Speculation mounted about potential successors to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei after the 76-year-old ayatollah underwent prostate surgery in 2014, and rumors about his health continue to circulate. But ex-President Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani put the topic front and center when he spoke publicly in December about succession. Rafsanjani, an influential former confidant of the Islamic republic's iconic founder Ruhollah Khomeini whose name has come up as a potential successor to Khamenei, said a group of clerics was examining qualified potential prospects who could become Iran's next supreme leader. Most analysts agree that it's difficult to predict political developments in Iran if Khamenei dies or becomes incapacitated. Some suggest Iran might experience a period of political turmoil and increased factional infighting, while others, such as analyst and former State Department official Ray Takeyh, believe that Iranian authorities would quickly name a replacement "to project the impression of continuity and strength." There are also differing views about the actual role the Assembly of Experts is likely to play in choosing Iran's third supreme leader (after Khomeini and Khamenei). Amid the debates, a number of Iranian political figures have been touted as possible Khamenei successors. Here are some of them: Mahmud Hashemi Shahrudi The former head of Iran's judiciary Mahmud Hashemi Shahrudi (left) in conversation with Hassan Khomeini, the grandson of Iran's first supreme leader, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini. This former head of Iran's powerful judiciary and current Guardians Council and Assembly of Experts member is a senior conservative cleric who teaches Islamic jurisprudence in the Shi'ite holy city of Qom. He's been tipped as a top contender for supreme leader due in part to his strong religious credentials and the perception that he hasn't particularly antagonized any factions within the Islamic republic. Shahrudi, 67, was born in the Iraqi city of Najaf to an Iranian family. His website claims he was jailed by then-Iraqi President Saddam Hussein's regime in 1974 and tortured. He moved to Iran after the 1979 revolution that ended the Pahlavi monarchy and led to the creation of the Islamic republic. After Shahrudi took up the leadership of the judiciary, he spoke of the need for judicial reforms and he implicitly criticized his predecessor in the post, current Assembly of Experts Chairman Mohammad Yazdi* but critics say Shahrudi failed to bring substantial changes to the powerful institution, which has been a tool of state repression. During his 1999-2009 tenure as judiciary chief, scores of journalists and activists were jailed and publications were shut down. Shahrudi reportedly ordered a moratorium on executions by stoning in 2002, but a number of stoning sentences were said to have been issued and carried out despite the order. Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani Former Iranian President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani (right) This pragmatic 82-year-old cleric is among the founding figures of Iran's Islamic republic. Rafsanjani, who is nicknamed "The Shark" for his lack of a beard and perceived political shrewdness, was Iran's president from 1989 to 1997. His presidency was marked by attempts to move Iran toward greater pragmatism on foreign policy and ease social and cultural restrictions slightly at home. During his presidency, a number of dissidents and intellectuals inside and outside Iran were either killed or disappeared. Rafsanjani was accused of being among state officials who ordered those and other killings. Those who made the accusations included journalist Akbar Ganji, another former postrevolutionary Iranian president at a German terrorism trial, and an Argentine investigator into the deadly bombing of a Jewish center in Buenos Aires in 1994. He has never publicly commented on the slayings or the accusations against him. Rafsanjani is regarded by some as a rival to current Supreme Leader Khamenei, who was appointed as the country's top authority in 1989 by Rafsanjani and a number of other clerics. Hard-liners have occasionally sought to marginalize Rafsanjani, who publicly expressed support for the opposition movement in 2009. In 2011, Rafsanjani lost his post as chairman in a vote by the Assembly of Experts to Yazdi (see above). Rafsanjani has appeared to be ascendant since self-styled moderate Hassan Rohani's rise to the presidency in 2013. Sadegh Larijani Iranian judiciary chief Sadegh Larijani was born in Iraq but moved to Iran after the 1979 Islamic revolution. The current head of Iran's powerful judiciary is believed to be close to Supreme Leader Khamenei, who appointed him to that post in 2009. Nearly a decade earlier, in 2001, Khamenei had made Larijani one of the youngest jurists in the powerful Guardians Council that has consistently opposed reforms. According to Washington-based Iran analyst (and former RFE/RL Radio Farda broadcaster) Mehdi Khalaji, Larijani has close ties to Iran's military and intelligence agencies. Larijani was born in the Iraqi city of Najaf and moved to Iran after the 1979 revolution. Two of his brothers, including current parliamentary speaker Ali Larijani, hold important political posts. Under Larijani's watch atop the judiciary, the number of executions, including public hangings, has significantly increased. Larijani has repeatedly dismissed international criticism of Iran's human rights record as baseless interference. Larijani has claimed that "many of the issues raised on the pretext of human rights, including opposing the death penalty, are in fact in opposition to Islam, because qisas" or retaliatory law "is clearly stipulated in the Quran." Hassan Rohani Current Iranian President Hassan Rohani Iran's self-styled moderate president appeared to enjoy soaring popularity after he engineered a nuclear deal with world powers to lift international sanctions in July. The 67-year-old theologian is regarded as a skillful maneuverer and lobbyist of different centers of powers in the Islamic republic and the international arena, earning him the nickname "Diplomatic Sheikh." He has served in a number of key posts over the past 37 years, including secretary of Iran's Supreme National Security Council from 1989 to 2005. Rohani was elected as Iran's president in June 2013 with the slogan "moderation and prudence." Many people are thought to have voted for him to block hard-line candidates favored by Supreme Leader Khamenei. Rohani has so far failed to fulfill campaign promises to give Iranians more rights, but supporters argue that since his election, state repression has slightly eased and cultural freedom increased. Rohani's pledge to release opposition figures who have been under house arrest since February 2011 has also not materialized. Hassan Khomeini Hassan Khomeini, 43, is viewed as a relative moderate. This 43-year-old cleric and grandson of the founder of Iran's Islamic republic, Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini, is a mid-ranking, relative moderate who teaches theology in his birthplace of Qom. He has come under pressure by hard-liners over his ties to the reformists. Khomeini recently made headlines by announcing his decision to run for the Assembly of Experts amid speculation that former Presidents Rafsanjani and Mohammad Khatami had encouraged him to stand. But vetters at the Guardians Council torpedoed his candidacy. Saying there was no justification for his disqualification, Khomeini said he had decided to run "out of duty and concern for the future of the revolution and the Islamic establishment." Fazel Meybodi, a reformist cleric in Qom, has described Khomeini as "a moderate person, handsome, charismatic, articulate, and open-minded." Mojtaba Khamenei Hard-line cleric Mojtaba Khamenei (center) is the second son of current Iranian Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. This 46-year-old cleric is one of Supreme Leader Khamenei's six children. Rumors about him as a possible successor to his father made him a target of chants by opposition activists protesting the 2009 reelection of President Mahmud Ahmadinejad. Little is known about the younger Khamenei, although he was rumored to have been orchestrating the brutal crackdown that followed the disputed 2009 vote. He makes rare appearances at his father's speeches and at state demonstrations marking anniversaries of the 1979 revolution. The younger Khamenei's father-in-law, former parliamentary speaker Gholamali Haddad Adel, once called him a pious and modest man whose views are fully in line with his father's and who "fulfills his duty" when asked by the supreme leader. Haddad Adel also said "rumors" swirling around Mojtaba Khamenei reflect efforts to create distance between the supreme leader and the people. Mohammad Taghi Mesbah Yazdi Iranian conservative Mohammad Taghi Mesbah Yazdi is nicknamed "Ayatollah Crocodile" by critics. This 82-year-old ayatollah and current Assembly of Experts* member, nicknamed "Ayatollah Crocodile" by detractors, is arguably one of Iran's most radical clerics. He was an ardent supporter of former hard-line President Ahmadinejad, calling his election "a miracle." But after Ahmadinejad appeared to fall out of official favor, Mesbah turned critic. He has been a fierce opponent of reforms, suggesting in a 1998 speech that "accepting Islam is not compatible with democracy." More recently, Mesbah Yazdi said that "cultural infiltration" is the biggest threat Iran will face. In the run-up to these elections, he was quoted as saying that "the enemies want to influence our thinking and weaken our beliefs." *Both Mohammad Yazdi and Mohammad Taghi Mesbah Yazdi are seeking re-election to the Assembly of Experts. Latest preliminary results indicate that both men have lost their seats. Via RFE/RL Copyright (c) 2015. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave NW, Ste 400, Washington DC 20036. Reddit Email 0 Shares By Evelyn M. Simien | (The Conversation) | As the Democratic nominating contest speeds up, African-American voters especially women have some tough, and influential, choices to make . . . As someone who has been researching this topic for the last 15 years, I believe both candidates are attractive to African-American voters. These voters could perceive Sanders as better equipped to handle issues related to social welfare, unemployment and poverty, as well as affirmative action. What might solidify black support for Clinton is a series of symbolic gestures. Perhaps the most influential is the latest campaign ad targeting black mothers who lost their children to violence. These symbolic appeals convey a knowledge of growing discontent in the African-American community, while also expressing concern for racial justice, which could be sufficient to capture the black vote. African-American voters are the most loyal supporters of the Democratic Party. Their support for Democratic presidential candidate Al Gore was 90 percent in 2000. In 2004, they voted for John Kerry by 88 percent. Barack Obama won an all-time high of 95 percent in 2008. According to exit polls, black voters were 13 percent of the national electorate in 2008. They represented approximately one in every 4.25 Obama voters that same year. Sixty-five percent, or 15.9 million, of voting-age African Americans cast a ballot in the general election, compared to 66.1 percent of white citizens. But, the voter turnout rate among eligible black female voters was 68.8 percent the highest of all racial, ethnic and gender groups in the 2008 American presidential election. Especially in southern states with large black voting-eligible populations including South Carolina, Mississippi, Georgia, North Carolina and Louisiana the black female voter outperformed in terms of registration and turnout. Since 1996, this gender gap has been consistently present. African-American women voted at higher rates than African-American men by a range of 7 or 8 percentage points in 2008. That rate was even higher about 9 percentage points in 2012, which is 6 percentage points higher than other racial groups. But during the primary, when two choices are available, will African-American women vote for Sanders or Clinton? To answer that, it helps to look at past presidential primaries. Historically, African-American women have supported the candidate perceived as best representing their interests whether or not that candidate has a chance to win the nomination. Shirley came first The election of Barack Obama in 2008 made American history, but prior campaigns paved the way, starting with Shirley Chisholm in 1972 and Jesse Jackson in the 1980s. Some have forgotten, or are unaware, that Jesse Jackson won the South Carolina primary twice in 1984 and 1988. In 2008, then-Senator Obamas win in South Carolina brought Jacksons run 20 years before back into the spotlight. Rich with symbolic meaning and electoral consequence for future presidential hopefuls, Chisholm and Jackson demonstrated the progress African Americans made in the aftermath of the protest phase of the civil rights movement. Understanding that black votes could mean the margin of victory for the eventual Democratic nominee, Chisholm and Jackson pursued brokerage politics. They turned this into the leverage needed to participate in behind-the-scenes bargaining for leadership roles at national party conventions, proposed changes to delegate selection procedures and eliminating the runoff primary in southern states. As I argue in my book, Historic Firsts: How Symbolic Empowerment Changes U.S. Politics, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are indebted to this pioneer cohort. By being less system-challenging and more ideologically moderate than their predecessors, Clinton and Obama achieved viable electoral success in 2008. They adapted to the changing political landscape, but not without recognizing the importance of key voting constituencies. Chisholm and Jackson brought formerly inactive people into the presidential selection process and got them involved in ways beyond voting. They sought to build coalitions comprising diverse groups from women and racial minorities to the poor while appealing directly to African-American voters. Neither Chisholm nor Jackson really expected to win the Democratic nomination. Rather, they wanted to act as brokers who established the need for the eventual Democratic nominee to move left of center. Observers have since failed to consider the prophetic nature of this intervention. Without Chisholm and Jackson, Obama could never have had his victory in 2008. First battleground for black votes So what path then will African-American voters take when it comes to selecting the next leader of the Democratic Party? If they believe Sanders holds views closer to their own and would be more likely to champion their class interests, African-American women are faced with a dilemma. They are expected to show support for the womens movement by voting for Clinton despite the movements history of blindness to issues of class. History shows that successes of the movement generally benefited privileged white women who profited from the economic exploitation of black womens domestic labor. Race and class identities help shape how one experiences being a woman. African-American women may be more likely to consider themselves part of a movement to combat economic inequalities. Clintons candidacy opposite Sanders draws attention to the way their intersectional identities can play a role in determining election outcomes. African-American women, who grapple with a tension between the womens liberation movement and black freedom struggle, hold the balance of power in several southern states. Consider the controversial remarks made by Rep. John Lewis of Georgia, feminist Gloria Steinem, and former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright over the two front-runners. The call to support Clintons candidacy reflects an assumption that women and African-American voters would and should have a special affinity for the first viable female candidate for the U.S. presidency. Yet the reality of such an affinity, whether it be based on race or gender, is unproven. That older women have made Clinton their preferred choice in 2016 is significant. What remains unclear is whether that choice is rooted in their shared gender identity or ideological distancing from Sanders. It is reasonable to assume that the electoral prospects for Clinton have improved since Obamas victory, which established a precedent for historic firsts. Rather than act as a broker, as did Chisholm and Jackson, Clinton has emerged once again as a viable candidate. Contrary to the conclusion one might draw from the Clinton campaign that is, women rather than men would be more likely to support her candidacy the real question is: which women? Evelyn M. Simien, Associate Professor of Political Science and Africana Studies, University of Connecticut This article was originally published on The Conversation. Read the original article. - Related video added by Juan Cole: VOA: Clinton Overwhelms Sanders in South Carolina Primary Reddit Email 0 Shares By Arun Gupta | ( TeleSur | Bernie Sanders has the ideas and passion, but his campaign has run smack into the deep state backing Hillary Clinton. Bernie Sanders supporters are understandably frustrated about the 2016 primary. He essentially tied Hillary Clinton in Iowa, trounced her in New Hampshire, and gave her a scare in Nevada. But the narrative is Clinton has cleared the road, is back on track, and inevitable again to win the Democratic Party presidential nomination. Sanders diehards might dismiss this as corporate media bias, but there is little solace elsewhere. Fivethirtyeight.com, the reigning election prognosticator, finds pluses for Sanders coming out of Nevada, such as a strong showing with Hispanic voters and a more than 50-percent jump in self-identified liberals in the turnout from 2008. But the website calls Clinton the favorite in the Super Tuesday primaries given her win in Nevada and expected dominance in South Carolina, which is what the polls suggest. It notes Sanders has been unable to make significant inroads among African-Americans despite how the Clintons brutalized working-class Blacks with harsh policing, welfare, and trade policies in the 1990s. More significant, Clinton may have thwarted Sanderss surging campaign fatally in Nevada, and her victory was the fruit of her enduring advantage: the deep state. It also punctuates a questionable strategy promoted by leftists such as Jacobin publisher Bhaskar Sunkara: to use the presidential race as a way for socialists to regroup, organize together, and articulate the kind of politics that speaks to the needs and aspirations of the vast majority of people. Clinton won with the backing of unionized Black and Hispanic workers at six major Las Vegas casinos Caesars Palace, Harrahs, MGM, Rio, the Wynn and New York-New York. Sanders may have the passion, he may be firing up young people on the losing end of a rigged economy, his policies could roll back decades of class warfare on workers, but his insurgency lacks the array of social institutions establishment candidates depend on in a crisis. In Nevada, Clintons campaign colluded with casino owners, the Democratic Party, and the Culinary Workers Union which was officially neutral to deliver the state to her. The Democratic Party set up caucuses at the six casinos so workers didnt have to travel to their home precincts to participate. And until Nevada Sen. Harry Reid reportedly pushed CWU local 226 into action and pressured casino owners to give workers paid time off to caucus, turnout at casinos was forecast at about a hundred voters. The Culinary Workers Union provided 100 organizers at sites including the casinos and coordinated with casino management, which gave workers up to three paid hours to attend caucuses. The state Democratic Party extended the noon deadline by an hour or more for the caucus to begin, enabling large turnouts at the casinos. The Clinton campaign flooded the casinos with volunteers, delivering resounding two-to-one victories. Unabashed about their partisan role, the CWU local political director celebrated the Clinton win and Tweeted that it wouldnt have happened without Reid. This is classic corporatism, in which government mobilizes institutions like corporations, unions, and political parties for strategic ends. In this case, the guiding hand is the Clinton camp serving the interests of the capitalist state. Its powerful, deploying industrial-scale organizing to overwhelm voluntaristic models like the Sanders campaign, which relies more on ideas and emotion to motivate supporters because it does not have access to the institutions the Clintons have. Now, Sanders has been trying to cobble a power base together. The proliferation of social media and digital media allows him to bypass media that often ridicule Sanders when they notice him. Liberal clicktivist outfits like MoveOn.org and Democracy for America support him. Hes capitalized on objective conditions with a left-liberal response to severe income inequality and benefited from contingent forces like Labor for Bernie, which has been endorsed by more than 10,000 union members and leaders. His fundraising has defied expectations, and in the run-up to the Nevada caucus Sanders spent nearly twice as much as Clinton on broadcast advertising. But thats not enough. The exigencies of the electoral process force Sanders to compete on terrain that favors Clintons pro-corporate substance and methods. His top-down political revolution has sparked grassroots fervor and cash, but the role of organized labor points to the possibilities and limits of Sanderss campaign. Nurses, postal workers, and communications workers unions have endorsed Sanders, and he cinched a coup when the AFL-CIO said recently it would forgo endorsing a candidate. About two-thirds of unions, however, have lined up behind Clinton with millions of members, thousands of staff, and hundreds of millions of dollars in the bank. Like the Clintons, some unions are bare-knuckle brawlers that outmatch the Sanders campaign. At a Seattle Labor for Bernie rally held on February 21, two sources say the head of the Washington State Labor Council cancelled his planned appearance there. They allege that AFSCME, the largest public-sector union in the country, threatened to cut funding to the council if he spoke. In Nevada, the pro-Clinton Service Employees International Union passed out fliers portraying her as a supporter of a $15-an-hour wage. Only Sanders supports a federal $15 minimum wage; Clinton calls for a $12-an-hour floor. Her position is so backwards the New York Times chastised her and told her to get on board with the $15 proposal. SEIU spent more than four years building widespread support for $15 an hour and unionization for low-wage workers, but union leaders seem willing to jettison these demands to prove their devotion to Clinton. That many labor leaders do the dirty work for Wall Street Democrats indicates they have yet to develop a response to the grievous blow Reagan inflicted 35 years ago in the air-traffic controllers strike. Unions serve as an ATM for Democrats, earning labor leaders spots as wallflowers within the chambers of power just to be within earshot of the CEOs, bankers, and billionaires monopolizing the conversation. Their thinking seems to be that while Clinton will heap abuse on workers and unions if she wins, just as Obama and Bill Clinton did, she is not as vicious as Republicans. Sanderss campaign has benefitted rank-and-file militants opposing labor leaders cozy with corporate Democrats and Wall Street. But Bill Fletcher says Sanders declined the historic opportunity to convene a meeting of left and progressive electoral activists to discuss strategy and failed to nurture relationships with movements the way Jesse Jacksons radical presidential campaign did in 1984. Ten months after Sanders announced his presidential bid, the huge crowds, the enthusiasm, the dreams that Americans would finally embrace socialism, at least in word if not in deed, his path to the nomination will narrow if he doesnt have a strong showing on Super Tuesday and win some key states. The left, disorganized as ever, has little to show from it. Even as obituaries are being written for Sanders, some cling to the airy idea that the Democratic Party can be co-opted in spite of its glaring corruption and dominance by forces allied with Wall Street and the Pentagon. Sanders has proved that millions of Americans are hungry to reverse neoliberal economic policies. But the task remains the same: to organize radical mass movements rather than believing they can magically spring from a Democratic Party inhospitable to everything the left represents. TeleSur Related video added by Juan Cole: AFP: Sanders looks past South Carolina as Super Tuesday looms Reddit Email 0 Shares By Juan Cole | (Informed Comment) | The era of former Iranian president Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, also a former mayor of Tehran, is completely over. Ahmadinejads so-called spiritual mentor, Mohammad-Taqi Misbah-Yazdi (actually an extremely hateful individual), lost his seat on the Assembly of Experts, as did far right figure Mohammad Yazdi, the bodys sitting chairman. Not only that, but the 88-person Assembly of Experts, which chooses the next clerical Leader and loosely supervises the current one, now has a centrist majority, after a rout of the far right. Rouhani and former president Akbar Hashemi-Rafsanjani were among the top vote-getters on this body. Some 57 other centrists and pragmatists joined them on the 88-member body. All 30 seats in the Iranian parliament representing the capital, Tehran, have been won by allies of President Hassan Rouhani. Some of the top vote-getters were from the list of former president Mohammad Khatami, who is to Rouhanis left, though still a man of the Khomeinist system of clerical rule or theocracy. Khatami had led the 2nd of Khordad movement, supported by women and youth, which aimed at gaining more personal liberties and more freedom of expression. A little like Barack Obama, Khatami, whose second term ended in 2005, saw his movement constantly stymied, though in his case it was not obstructed by parliament but by far right elements in the unelected institutions of Iran, the office of the clerical Leader and the judiciary. BBC Monitoring paraphrases the centrist Arman-i Imruz newspapers reaction: the comfortable defeat of senior conservative leaders at the hands of unknown faces of the reformist coalition in the Majlis election demonstrates the depth of peoples trust in reformist leaders. In other big cities, centrists and pragmatists also did well, but like the US Congress, rural areas are over-represented in the Iranian parliament, as a prominent France24 analyst points out: #Iran : 8 biggest cities, where moderates did well, account for more than half of pop., but only 57 of 290 seats in parliament (NYT) Douglas Herbert (@dougf24) February 29, 2016 It appears that centrists have tripled their strength in the new parliament, with a corresponding drop in the number of far right MPs. But likely the parliament will have no majority, and the centrists certainly wont win more than about a third of the seats: Moderates, reformers to have about 3X as many seats in new #Iran parliament (89 so far v 30 in current body). Strong gains but no majority Douglas Herbert (@dougf24) February 29, 2016 While right wing and far right wing candidates did better in rural areas and smaller cities, there is a difference between the two. The centrists in Tehran need pragmatic conservatives to cooperate with them if they are to get anything done. If more practical and less ideological persons get elected elsewhere in the country, Tehrans representatives can leverage those into a big tent and perhaps get some reform legislation passed. These developments matter because the far right MPs had been hostile to the UNSC nuclear deal, continue to be strident in their enmity with the United States, and sought to block the economic and cultural opening of Iran to the world. Especially European potential investors in Iran won big this weekend. BBC Monitoring translated this report from Islamic Republic of Iran News Network, Tehran, in Persian 0600 gmt 28 Feb 16: Reformist-backed candidates have secured a landslide victory in the Tehran constituency in the Majlis (parliamentary) elections while the only major conservative candidate, former Speaker Gholamali Haddad-Adel, is on track to lose his bid for re-election, the state-run rolling news channel IRINN reported on 28 February. According to the preliminary official results for the Tehran constituency announced by the election HQ, Mohammad Reza Aref, the reformist former vice-president, is in first with more than 1,280,000 votes. Haddad-Adel, the only conservative who was among the first 30 names announced yesterday, has slipped to 31st from 7th, the IRINN report added. Aref is followed by other names from the List of Hope a title given to the pro-reform candidate list by former President Mohammad Khatami. Ali Motahhari, Ali Reza Mahjub, Soheyla Jelodarzadeh, Kazem Jalali, Elyas Hazrati, and Kazem Jalali stood 2nd to 6th according to the latest tally announced by the Elections HQ. The Twitter account of the pro-reform daily Sharq reported that all the names on the List of Hope have made it into the parliament according to the latest results. The capital sends 30 deputies to the 290-member Majlis. Tehran is significant because deputies from the capital usually determine the political direction of the Majlis. - Related video: Irans hardliners lose to moderates I FT World TORONTO, ON--(Marketwired - February 29, 2016) - Primero Mining Corp. ("Primero" or the "Company") (TSX: P) (NYSE: PPP) today announced the results of successful exploration programs at the Company's Black Fox mine located near Timmins, Ontario, Canada and the San Dimas mine located in Durango, Mexico. Black Fox Exploration Highlights: Froome Zone Expands with Significant Continuity: Highlights from recent drilling at the Froome zone, located 800 metres west of the Black Fox deposit, include long mineralized intercepts of significant gold grades of 5.0 grams per tonne ("g/t") gold over 42.9 metres true width (15PR-G011), 4.6 g/t gold over 35.3 metres true width (15PR-G031) and 6.0 g/t gold over 25.6 metres true width (15PR-G048). Primero also completed a drill hole to test the down plunge extent and continuity of mineralization, which featured notable intercepts of 6.1 g/t gold over 44.1 metres , 7.2 g/t gold over 14.7 metres , and 7.7 g/t gold over 102.6 metres (15PR-G016). Highlights from recent drilling at the Froome zone, located 800 metres west of the Black Fox deposit, include long mineralized intercepts of significant gold grades of over (15PR-G011), over (15PR-G031) and over (15PR-G048). Primero also completed a drill hole to test the down plunge extent and continuity of mineralization, which featured notable intercepts of over , over , and over (15PR-G016). New Froome-Like Mineralization Identified: A drill hole has intersected Froome-like mineralization, located 750 metres southeast of Froome and approximately 300 metres from Black Fox mine. Initial results include 2.5 g/t gold over 10.8 metres (15PR-G009). Similar to Froome, this new intersection is situated within an area of low magnetic response, the trend of which extends for over 3 kilometres across the Black Fox property, and contains other interpreted Froome-like targets. San Dimas Exploration Highlights: New Vein Discovered Under Volcanic Capping: New vein discovered approximately 200 metres north of the Jessica vein. The 'Convencion vein' preliminary results include 2.3 g/t gold and 136 g/t silver over 0.4 metres true width (CNV15_001). Primero's exploration geologists believe there to be good potential to outline additional mineralization from this vein, located in a highly prospective area of San Dimas. New High-Grade Ore Shoot of Regina Vein Identified: Recent drilling results have identified a new high-grade ore shoot of the Regina vein including 9.4 g/t gold and 1,673 g/t silver over 3.8 metres true width (SRE16_010), and 13.3 g/t gold and 1,403 g/t silver over 2.7 metres true width (SRE16_012). Similar to the Jessica and Convencion veins, the Regina vein occurs below the upper volcanic capping and does not outcrop at surface. New vein discovered approximately 200 metres north of the Jessica vein. The 'Convencion vein' preliminary results include and over (CNV15_001). Primero's exploration geologists believe there to be good potential to outline additional mineralization from this vein, located in a highly prospective area of San Dimas. Recent drilling results have identified a new high-grade ore shoot of the Regina vein including and over (SRE16_010), and and over (SRE16_012). Similar to the Jessica and Convencion veins, the Regina vein occurs below the upper volcanic capping and does not outcrop at surface. Additional High Grade Intercepts from Victoria Vein: Victoria vein has been extended with recent drilling including 22.8 g/t gold and 841 g/t silver over 4.3 metres true width (VIC16_371), 16.5 g/t gold and 1,062 g/t silver over 2.4 metres true width (VIC15_368), 10.1 g/t gold and 519 g/t silver over 4.7 metres true width (VIC15_366) and 25.3 g/t gold and 794 g/t silver over 0.7 metres true width (VIC15_369). "We continue to demonstrate upside through exploration at our two operating mines," stated Ernest Mast, President and Chief Executive Officer. "Continued investment in exploration is critical to maintaining successful underground mining operations, and we are pleased to see significant returns on our investment dollars. Primero will continue to explore and grow our mines with $9.1 million budgeted for exploration at San Dimas in 2016 and $8.9 million at Black Fox. The Company is committed to preserving the longevity of its key mines, ensuring stable revenue generation and secure employment for our workers for years to come." BLACK FOX - CANADA Froome Zone Continues to Grow and Demonstrates Significant Continuity of Mineralization After receiving positive results in 2015, Primero has aggressively targeted the Froome zone, located approximately 800 metres west of the Black Fox mine. This area continues to demonstrate significant gold mineralization over wide widths. Highlights from recent drilling at the Froome zone include 5.0 g/t gold over 42.9 metres true width (15PR-G011), 4.6 g/t gold over 35.3 metres true width (15PR-G031) and 6.0 g/t gold over 25.6 metres true width (15PR-G048). Additionally, Primero recently completed a drill hole to test the down plunge extent and continuity of mineralization, which featured notable intercepts of 6.1 g/t gold over 44.1 metres, 7.2 g/t gold over 14.7 metres, and 7.7 g/t gold over 102.6 metres (15PR-G016). This hole also provided Primero's exploration geologists with important stratigraphic information. Recent drilling continues to confirm Primero's exploration thesis that the long intercepts of significant gold grades found at the Froome zone represent a different style of gold mineralization than seen at the nearby Black Fox deposit. Notably, the Froome zone demonstrates gold mineralization with consistent grades and good continuity which may make the zone amenable to bulk underground mining techniques. The Froome zone has been delineated from the bedrock surface, located 18 metres below the ground surface level, to approximately 260 metres below surface, and continues to remain open to the east, west, and at depth. Froome is a priority for surface exploration at Black Fox in 2016. Primero expects to complete approximately 25,000 metres of drilling by May 2016 in order to define and delineate the Froome deposit, and will evaluate the deposit as a medium term alternative to complement Black Fox ore in order to fill the mill beyond the end of 2017. An initial resource estimate for the Froome zone based on the results of all drilling received to-date is expected to be included with the Company's year-end reserves and resources update in early March 2016. Highlighted exploration drilling results from the Froome zone are included in Table 1 with locations identified in Figure 1. A typical southwest-northeast section (15PR-G031 and 15PR-G032) is shown in Figure 2 and a long section of the down plunge drill hole 15PR-G016 is shown in Figure 3. New Froome-Like Mineralization Identified New information received from the recent drilling at the Froome zone has suggested to Primero's exploration geologists that mineralization is hosted within a folded package of igneous and sedimentary rocks. The sedimentary rocks within the feature a low magnetic response, and the trend of which extends over 3 kilometres across the Black Fox property. This trend contains multiple Froome-like geophysical anomalies. However, the exact relationship between identified mineralization, folding, and the Gibson-Kelore Fault Zone ("GKFZ"), remains undefined at this time. For reference, the GKFZ is a splay of the Porcupine-Destor Fault Zone ("PDFZ"), a major fault structure associated with gold mineralization in the Timmins Gold Camp. In testing these other geophysical anomalies, a drill hole has intersected Froome-like mineralization located 750 metres from the Froome zone and approximately 300 metres the Black Fox mine. Initial results include 2.5 g/t gold over 10.8 metres (15PR-G009). Primero will complete approximately 18,750 metres of drilling in 2016 to target extensions of the Froome zone and other interpreted Froome-style targets located near to existing infrastructure. The results from hole 15PR-G009 are shown in Table 1. The results of the airborne magnetic survey and location of this new intercept and the Froome deposit are shown in Figure 4. Black Fox Complex drilling was conducted by Norex Drilling supervised by Primero's exploration team. Mr. David Laudrum, P.Geo., Senior Resource Manager for Primero has reviewed the technical exploration information in this news release as the Qualified Person ("QP") for the Company for the purposes of National Instrument 43-101 ("NI 43-101"). All samples are 1/2 core and analyses reported herein were performed by the independent laboratories Polymet Labs which is ISO 9001:2000 certified, AGAT Laboratories of Mississauga, Ontario, which is ISO 9001/IEC17025 certified, Accurassay Laboratories, which is ISO/IEC 17025 certified, ALS Laboratories, which is ISO 9001/IEC17025 certified, SGS Canada Laboratories, which is ISO9001/IEC17025 certified, Swastika Laboratories, which is ISO 17025 certified. Intercepts cited do not necessarily represent true widths, however, with the exception of hole 15PR-G016 which specifically targeted the down plunge extent of Froome zone, drilling is generally intersecting interpreted mineralized zones at a high angle. Primero's quality control program includes systematic insertion of blanks, standard reference material and duplicates to ensure laboratory accuracy. Table 1: Froome Zone - Highlighted Drilling Results Hole From (m) To (m) Core Length (m) True Width (m) Gold Grade (g/t) 15PR-G009 325.6 336.4 10.8 - 2.5 15PR-G011 173.0 228.8 55.8 42.9 5.0 including 214.0 220.0 6.0 4.6 12.1 15PR-G016 - down plunge 19.9 63.9 44.1 n/a 6.1 and 100.0 114.6 14.7 n/a 7.2 and 120.9 223.5 102.6 n/a 7.7 15PR-G031 127.0 180.0 53.0 35.3 4.6 including 149.4 160.0 10.6 7.1 8.9 15PR-G032 119.5 131.0 11.5 8.4 4.5 and 135.9 144.9 9.0 6.6 3.8 and 192.3 196.8 4.5 3.3 3.9 15PR-G034 119.5 139.3 19.8 13.9 4.0 and 143.0 178.0 35.0 24.5 4.0 15PR-G037 219.9 226.9 7.1 4.9 5.1 and 251.0 259.0 8.0 5.6 2.4 and 263.8 268.0 4.3 3.0 5.2 15PR-G039 125.2 168.0 42.9 31.3 4.0 15PR-G042 127.1 132.0 4.9 3.4 5.1 15PR-G042A 124.3 134.2 9.9 7.0 5.0 and 137.3 147.2 9.9 7.1 5.1 and 154.1 162.5 8.4 6.0 7.2 16PR-G045 210.0 221.0 11.0 7.5 4.9 and 245.0 274.0 29.0 19.7 3.6 16PR-G046 125.2 161.9 36.7 25.6 4.5 including 153.2 159.0 5.8 4.1 10.3 and 169.6 184.0 14.4 10.1 6.4 and 215.0 217.4 2.4 1.7 6.0 16PR-G047 81.6 91.0 9.4 6.5 4.0 16PR-G048 125.0 160.6 35.5 25.6 6.0 including 148.0 154.0 6.0 4.3 13.7 and 165.1 175.0 9.9 7.1 3.9 15PR-G052 75.6 83.4 7.8 6.6 4.9 16PR-G054 72.0 77.4 5.4 4.1 7.8 and 81.0 83.4 2.4 1.8 5.1 16PR-G055 1 213.0 225.0 12.0 8.5 5.3 15PR-G057 98.3 102.4 4.1 3.3 6.0 16PR-G060 126.4 164.0 37.6 26.4 5.1 and 170.7 186.0 15.3 10.7 5.0 16PR-G062 2 194.6 200.0 5.4 3.7 7.4 15PR-G063 98.7 151.0 52.4 37.4 3.7 including 98.7 110.6 11.9 8.5 5.8 including 113.8 116.4 2.5 1.8 5.9 including 124.0 151.0 27.0 19.3 3.9 15PR-G089 214.1 222.8 8.7 6.9 5.0 1: 106 assays pending. 2: 136 assays pending. SAN DIMAS - MEXICO New Vein Discovered Under Upper Volcanic Capping Primero has discovered a new vein located in the Central Block at the San Dimas mine. The Convencion vein was intersected by exploration drifting in late-2015 approximately 200 metres north of the Jessica vein. Similar to the Jessica vein, the Convencion vein exists under the upper volcanic (rhyolite) capping that covers a significant portion of the San Dimas-Ventanas district. The discovery of the Convencion vein further demonstrates that emplacement of the upper volcanic capping was a post-mineralization event. As a result, Primero's geologists believe that there is significant potential to continue to extend the district's mineralized vein systems under the upper volcanic capping. The first drill hole targeting the Convencion vein included an intercept of 2.3 g/t gold and 136 g/t silver over 0.4 metres true width (CNV15_001). Primero believes there to be good potential to outline additional mineralization from this vein, located in a highly prospective area of San Dimas. The prospectiveness of the Convencion vein has been further confirmed by initial channel sampling which reported relatively low gold and silver grades, but noted strongly brecciated vein textures with base metals (principally lead) in the matrix. This portion of the Convencion vein shares similar structural and mineralogical characteristics to lower grade zones of the Jessica vein, which may indicate that this initial intersection could be on the borders of the economic ore-shoot. The Convencion vein is interpreted to strike in an approximate northwest-southeast direction and dipping at 70 degrees to the north. It features a fragmented brecciated texture of white and gray quartz with disseminated pyrite crystals and small quantities of sulphides occurring in thin bands. The vein is hosted in the productive andesite with observed propylitic alteration. The hanging wall is bounded by a 30 centimetre wide fault gouge which appears to be the controlling structure, and in the footwall there are noted streams of quartz and calcite. Based on the initial observations, the Convencion vein is believed to intersect the Jessica vein to the east. Highlighted drill results in are shown in Table 2. A location map of the Convencion vein is shown in Figure 5, drill hole location is shown in Figure 6, and underground images are shown in Figure 7. New High Grade Ore Shoot of Regina Vein Identified The Regina vein was discovered in January 2015 when intersected by the San Vicente tunnel and it has become a key target of the 2016 exploration program. Similar to the Jessica and Convencion veins, the Regina vein occurs below the upper volcanic capping and is hosted in the productive andesite. Due to the capping, Regina does not outcrop at surface. Initial exploration of Regina around the San Vicente tunnel was limited by the Limoncito fault to the east and by a basaltic post-mineralization fault-dyke to the west. Additionally, a geochemical characterization of the vein indicated that the San Vicente intersection was below the precious metals enrichment zone. As a result, upwards drilling was conducted from nearby infrastructure to target the favourable horizon. Recent drill results have successfully identified a new high-grade ore shoot of the Regina vein, including 9.4 g/t gold and 1,673 g/t silver over 3.8 metres true width (SRE16_010), and 13.3 g/t gold and 1,403 g/t silver over 2.7 metres true width (SRE16_012). Based on the results of recent exploration, a new structural interpretation of the San Fernando area, which includes the Regina, Jessica, Convencion, and Perez veins, has been created. This new interpretation will be used by Primero's exploration geologists to generate additional drilling targets to test for extensions of these veins past known faulting. Exploration of the San Fernando area is a priority for the 2016 program. Initial geological surface reconnaissance of the area has recently identified two veins, Ximena and El Alacran, which are visible in outcrops of the lower volcanic sequence. They have not yet been explored. Highlighted drill results from the Regina vein are shown in Table 2 with locations identified in Figure 8. Victoria Vein Expanded with High Grade Intercepts A new structural model for the Victoria vein has been constructed by Primero's geologists based on new information received from recent drilling. This model includes a detailed interpretation of the principal and secondary faults that displace the vein principally along strike. A combination of the structural and geochemical characterizations has allowed the exploration team to better understand the plunge of the ore zone and to identify a possible extension of the known mineralization to the northeast of the vein. One of these new areas was confirmed by recent drilling which includes results of 22.8 g/t gold and 841 g/t silver over 4.3 metres true width (VIC16_371), 16.5 g/t gold and 1,062 g/t silver over 2.4 metres true width (VIC15_368), 10.1 g/t gold and 519 g/t silver over 4.7 metres true width (VIC15_366) and 25.3 g/t gold and 794 g/t silver over 0.7 metres true width (VIC15_369). Based on these results and the re-interpreted structural model, the vein appears to remain open to the northeast. Other results from drill holes delineating the southwest areas of the Victoria vein include 13.7 g/t gold and 781 g/t silver over 1.2 metres true width (VIC15_361), and 7.8 g/t gold and 465 g/t silver over 1.2 metres true width (VIC15_362). Highlighted drill results from the Victoria vein are shown in Table 2 with locations identified in Figure 9. Table 2: San Dimas - Highlighted Drilling Results Hole From (m) To (m) Core Length (m) True Width (m) Gold Grade (g/t) Silver Grade (g/t) Vein CNV15_001 150.6 151.1 0.5 0.4 2.3 136 Convencion SRE16_010 175.9 181.8 6.0 3.8 9.4 1,673 Regina SRE16_012 82.0 85.0 3.0 2.7 13.3 1,403 Regina VIC15_361 174.6 176.0 1.4 1.2 13.7 781 Victoria VIC15_362 170.9 172.2 1.3 1.2 7.8 465 Victoria VIC15_366 224.1 230.2 6.1 4.7 10.1 519 Victoria VIC15_368 240.8 246.5 5.7 2.4 16.5 1,062 Victoria VIC15_369 396.9 397.7 0.8 0.7 25.3 794 Victoria VIC16_371 397.3 402.9 5.6 4.3 22.8 841 Victoria Drilling at San Dimas and Ventanas was conducted by Primero's exploration team. Mr. David Laudrum, P.Geo., Senior Resource Manager for Primero has reviewed the technical exploration information in this news release as the Qualified Person ("QP") for the purposes of NI 43-101 for the Company. All drill-hole samples are 1/2 core and analyses reported herein were performed in the ISO certified independent laboratory SGS Servicios Minerales in Durango Mexico, using fire assay with atomic absorption finish or gravimetric finish for values over 10 g/t gold. Intercepts cited represent true widths and drilling is generally intersecting interpreted mineralized zones at a high angle. Primero's quality control program includes systematic insertion of blanks, standard reference material and 5% of rejects are re-assayed to ensure laboratory accuracy. Generally, in a block of twenty samples one will be a standard and one will be a blank. About Primero Primero Mining Corp. is a Canadian-based precious metals producer that owns 100% of the San Dimas gold-silver mine and the Cerro del Gallo gold-silver-copper development project in Mexico and 100% of the Black Fox mine and adjoining properties in the Township of Black RiverMatheson near Timmins, Ontario, Canada. Primero offers immediate exposure to un-hedged, below average cash cost gold production with a substantial resource base in politically stable jurisdictions. The Company is focused on becoming a leading intermediate gold producer by building a portfolio of high quality, low cost precious metals assets in the Americas. Primero's website is www.primeromining.com. CAUTIONARY STATEMENT ON FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION This news release contains "forward-looking statements", within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities legislation, concerning the business and operations of Primero Mining Corp. and its consolidated subsidiaries (collectively, "Primero" or the "Company"). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements. Generally, forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "plans", "expects", "is expected", "if approved", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates", "believes", "in order to" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "are anticipated", "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will require", "will allow", "will enhance" or "will include" or similar statements or the negative connotation thereof. Forward-looking information is also identifiable in statements of currently occurring matters which will continue in future, such as "is updating", "is working" or "is also assessing" or other statements that may be stated in the present tense and are not historical facts or words with future implication such as "opportunity", "promising". Forward-looking statements in this news release include, but are not limited to, statements regarding the Company's estimation of mineral reserves and resources and the realization of mineral reserve estimates (including all assumptions), the ability to identify new resources and convert resources into reserves and resources, the ability to access or find ore below the current mining level, the timing, nature and success of exploration activities, the capital expenditures in 2016; the Company's exploration targets and plans; and the Company's intentions to become an intermediate gold producer. The assumptions made by the Company in preparing the forward-looking information contained in this news release, which may prove to be incorrect, include, but are not limited to: the expectations and beliefs of management; the specific assumptions set forth above in this news release; that there are no significant disruptions affecting operations; that the Company does not change its development and exploration plans; that the exchange rate between the Canadian dollar, Mexican peso and the United States dollar remain consistent with current levels or as set out in this news release; that prices for gold and silver remain consistent with the Company's expectations; that production meets expectations; the amount of silver that the Company will sell at spot prices in 2016; that the Company identifies higher grade veins in sufficient quantities of minable ore in or around Black Fox and San Dimas; that there are no material variations in the current tax and regulatory environment; that the Company will receive required permits and access to surface rights; that the Company can access financing, appropriate equipment and sufficient labour; that the political environment within Mexico and Canada will continue to support the development of environmentally safe mining projects. Forward-looking statements are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other important factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Primero to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, including: the Company may not be able to achieve planned production levels; the Company may not be able to expand production at San Dimas as anticipated or generate significant free cash flow; the Company may not be able realize anticipated production levels; the Company may not be successful in returning the Black Fox mine to higher production levels; the Company may be required to change its development and exploration plans with a negative impact on production; the Company may not discover mineralization in minable quantities; the exchange rate between the Canadian dollar, the Mexican peso and the United States dollar may change with an adverse impact on the Company's financial results; the optimization and expansion initiatives may not provide the benefits anticipated; the Company may not be able to become an intermediate gold producer by building a portfolio of high quality, low cost precious metals assets in the Americas. Certain of these factors are discussed in greater detail in Primero's registration statement on Form 40-F on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, and its most recent Annual Information Form on file with the Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities and available at www.sedar.com. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. In addition, although Primero has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results 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. Forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and accordingly are subject to change after such date. Forward-looking statements are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans and allowing investors and others to get a better understanding of our operating environment. Primero does not undertake to update any forward-looking statements that are included in this document, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084789/Images/Figure_1-15ff451f294dbc509e29127ab6f700df.JPG Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084789/Images/Figure_2-0dfc3aa896c7ac31b9d8da2739e7a82c.JPG Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084789/Images/Figure_3-6483bd5e782d9583a7cef5e470eae25c.JPG Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084789/Images/Figure_4-43ebc2693bbab0d1a437351440ab3e8a.jpg Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084789/Images/Figure_5-3a978d3c5c42b0c6b09b579a3e1e4613.JPG Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084789/Images/Figure_6-d36013bf9a6e982d9ac6b6c438db6708.JPG Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084789/Images/Figure_7-932a772a6e7c8932977c27bcc012c514.JPG Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084789/Images/Figure_8-999454773a659eb9a3f211d58726ac44.JPG Image Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084789/Images/Figure_9-91334bbbf479b273a8111b127a10cef8.JPG Attachment Available: http://www.marketwire.com/library/MwGo/2016/2/26/11G084789/PR5-16_BF_SD_Exploration_Update_Winter_FinalA-9151ee8efba5a64dac6ddc3c55ed683f.pdf DENVER, Feb. 29, 2016 /CNW/ -- Vista Gold Corp. (the "Company," "we" or "our") (NYSE MKT and TSX: VGZ) today announced its audited financial results and highlights for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015. Management's quarterly conference call to discuss these results is scheduled for 2:30 p.m. MST on March 2, 2016. The Company's full audited financial statements, Management's Discussion and Analysis together with other important disclosures can be found in the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K, filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and the Canadian securities regulatory authorities. Summary of 2015 Financial Results We reported net income of $1.0 million or $0.01 per share for the year ended December 31, 2015. This includes $10.2 million of payments received from the Australian Government under a research and development incentive program for qualifying costs incurred in 2012 and 2013; a $1.6 million mark-to-market loss on our investment in Midas Gold Corp.; $7.5 million of operating expenses, net of a $2.0 million gain on the disposal of the Los Cardones gold project; and $0.1 million of other expenses. Cash operating expenditures were substantially unchanged from 2014. Our working capital as at December 31, 2015 totaled approximately $14.4 million, including cash and short-term investments (comprised of government securities) of approximately $12.9 million. The Company has no debt. Frederick H. Earnest, Vista's President and CEO, commented, "2015 was a pivotal year in the financial position of the Company. The cash received from the sale of some of our non-core assets, together with the receipt of $10.2 million dollars under the Australian Government's R&D Tax Incentive Program have financed the Company without shareholder dilution, and provided a treasury that we believe will fund the Company into 2018. We plan to continue our core focus on Mt Todd permitting and technical/economic studies. We recently retained a team of experts to review key areas of the project; concentrating on metallurgical recovery, process engineering and plant design, pit slope rock mechanics, mine plans and scheduling, and the gas-fired power plant. We hope that this review will identify opportunities to improve project economics and may move the project closer to development." Guadalupe de los Reyes Update On February 25, 2016, Vista received notification from Great Panther Silver Limited ("Great Panther") that it is terminating its option agreement on Vista's non-core Guadalupe de los Reyes gold and silver project (the "Guadalupe project") in Sinaloa, Mexico; and that the $1.5 million option payment due in February 2016 would not be made. Pursuant to the terms of the option agreement, Vista and Great Panther are now working together to transition 100% of the Guadalupe project back to Vista's control. Frederick H. Earnest, added, "The Guadalupe project is a non-core project for Vista. The work that Great Panther and its subsidiary (Coboro Minerales de Mexico, S.A. de C.V) completed over the last two years has confirmed previous work and provided additional information about the low-sulfidation epithermal veins systems in the district. We continue to believe that the Guadalupe project has good prospects for future development based on the identified and prospective mineral resources. At the appropriate time we intend to seek a new partner who can advance the project to a development decision." To review the Company's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2015, including the related Management's Discussion and Analysis, visit any of the following websites: www.sedar.com, www.sec.gov or www.vistagold.com. Management Conference Call A conference call with management to review our financial results for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2015 and to discuss corporate and project activities is scheduled for Wednesday, March 2, 2016 at 2:30 p.m. MST. Toll-free in North America: 1-888-455-2296 International: 719-325-2323 This call will also be web-cast and can be accessed at the following web location: http://event.on24.com/r.htm?e=1145423&s=1&k=66EBAA8D858DD45E6AA2CBEC0028F700 This call will be archived and available at www.vistagold.com after March 2, 2016. Audio replay will be available for 21 days by calling toll-free in North America: 1-866-245-6755, passcode 890013. If you are unable to access the audio or phone-in on the day of the conference call, please email questions to Connie Martinez, Manager Investor Relations (email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ), and we will try to address these questions prior to or during the conference call. All dollar amounts in the press release are U.S. dollars. About Vista Gold Corp. The Company is a well-funded gold project developer. Our principal asset is our flagship Mt Todd gold project in Northern Territory, Australia. We also hold approximately 4.9% of the outstanding common shares of Midas, non-core projects in Mexico and the United States and royalty interests in Indonesia. For more information about our projects, including technical studies and resource estimates, please visit our website at www.vistagold.com. For further information, please contact Connie Martinez at (720) 981-1185. Forward Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, and forward-looking information within the meaning of Canadian securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical facts, included in this press release that address activities, events or developments that we expect or anticipate will or may occur in the future, including such things as, the Company being funded into 2018; our plan to continue our focus on Mt Todd; our belief that the recommendations may lead to improved project economics and may move the project closer to development; our plan to seek a partner who can advance the Guadalupe project; our belief that the Guadalupe project has good prospects for future development based on the identified and prospective mineral resources; our believe that the return of the Guadalupe project will have no impact on Mt Todd and other such matters are forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The material factors and assumptions used to develop the forward-looking statements and forward-looking information contained in this press release include the following: our approved business plans, exploration and assay results, mineral resource and reserve estimates and results of preliminary economic assessments, and pre-feasibility studies on our projects, if any. When used in this press release, the words "optimistic," "potential," "indicate," "expect," "intend," "hopes," "believe," "may," "will," "if," "anticipate," and similar expressions are intended to identify forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. These 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 such statements. Such factors include, among others, uncertainty of resource and reserve estimates, uncertainty as to the Company's future operating costs and ability to raise capital; risks relating to cost increases for capital and operating costs; risks of shortages and fluctuating costs of equipment or supplies; risks relating to fluctuations in the price of gold; the inherently hazardous nature of mining-related activities; potential effects on our operations of environmental regulations in the countries in which it operates; risks due to legal proceedings; risks relating to political and economic instability in certain countries in which it operates; as well as those factors discussed under the headings "Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements" and "Risk Factors" in the Company's latest Annual Report on Form 10-K as filed on February 26, 2016 and other documents filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission and Canadian securities regulatory authorities. Although we have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those described in forward-looking statements and forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. Except as required by law, we assume no obligation to publicly update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information; whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise. SOURCE Vista Gold Corp. PERTH, WESTERN AUSTRALIA--(Marketwired - Feb. 28, 2016) - NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWSWIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES Perseus Mining Limited (TSX:PRU)(ASX:PRU) is pleased to announce that the Boards of Perseus Mining Limited (Perseus) and London Stock Exchange-listed Amara Mining Plc (AIM:AMA) (Amara) have reached agreement on the terms of a recommended combination of Perseus and Amara via a UK scheme of arrangement. Under the proposal, Amara shareholders would be entitled to receive 0.68 new Perseus shares and 0.34 unlisted, transferable Perseus warrants for every Amara share held that entitles the holder to subscribe for one Perseus share at a price of A$0.44 (a premium of 32.8% to the 20 day VWAP of Perseus) for a period of 36 months. This represents a premium for Amara shareholders of 42.2% to Amara's mid-market closing price on Friday 26 February 2016 of 10.3 pence, or 28.3% to Amara the relative 20-day VWAPs. The value of the warrants represents an additional premium of approximately 14.5% to Amara's mid-market closing price on 26 February 2016. Pro-forma ownership of the enlarged company would be 64.9% existing Perseus shareholders, and 35.1%(1) Amara existing shareholders. Amara shareholders representing in aggregate 16.07% of the issued share capital have provided irrevocable undertakings to vote in favour of the proposed transaction and Amara shareholders representing an additional 21.84% have provided letters of intent to vote in favour of the proposed transaction. (1) Assuming at the scheme effective date a total number of 420,386,077 Amara shares in issue, a total number of 529,343,901 Perseus shares in issue and 285,862,532 new Perseus shares issued under the terms of the combination and excluding dilution from the exercise of the warrants. The proposal, which is subject to Amara shareholder and court approval and other closing conditions, aims to create a geographically diversified, multi-project company with a significantly enhanced gold production profile once development projects are progressively brought on stream. Perseus produced 212,135 ounces of gold in the 2015 financial year from its Edikan Gold Mine in Ghana. Following the combination of the two companies, Perseus will have: a balanced and diversified portfolio of high quality operating, development and exploration assets that includes the Edikan Gold Mine in Ghana, Amara's Yaoure Gold Project in Cote d'Ivoire, as well as having future growth opportunities through Perseus's Sissingue Gold Project in Cote d'Ivoire and Amara's Baomahun Gold Project in Sierra Leone.a strong balance sheet that can be utilised together with a strong projected cash flow from Edikan following the end of the 2017 financial year, to fund the development of Yaoure and Sissingue; an experienced mine construction and operating team with members of the current management team that oversaw the construction and delivery of Edikan into production on time and under budget, and an existing development presence in Cote d'Ivoire; a highly capable and reliable Board and management team that has many years of collective experience operating in West Africa and other developing regions; well established "social licences" to operate in Ghana, Cote d'Ivoire and Sierra Leone. It is expected that the scheme circular, containing further information about the combination and notices of the court meeting and Amara general meeting will be published in the next few weeks and that, subject to the satisfaction, or where relevant waiver, of all relevant conditions, the scheme will become effective in the first half of 2016. Perseus's Chief Executive Officer, Mr Jeff Quartermaine said: "If approved by Amara's shareholders, the proposal will potentially transform Perseus into a leading mid-tier West African gold producer, delivering significant benefits to shareholders of both Perseus and Amara. The opportunity to merge Perseus with Amara represents an outstanding opportunity to build strength through diversification. Amara's Yaoure Gold Project is in our opinion one of the best undeveloped gold deposits in West Africa and will complement the other mines and projects under our management, which includes Edikan and the development-ready Sissingue Gold Project in Cote d'Ivoire. The future of the combined group is very exciting as we are confident that by deploying our experienced human and financial resources to develop Amara's Yaoure Project, we will create an entity with considerable market presence, capable of generating material benefits for both groups of existing shareholders." Following the completion of the transaction, two current directors of Amara, Mr John McGloin and Mr Alex Davidson will join the five-person board of Perseus which is headed by Mr Reg Gillard. Mr Quartermaine will continue in the role of Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer of the combined entity. For full details of the transaction and its strategic rationale readers are encouraged to read Perseus's announcements to the Australian Stock Exchange on Monday 29 February 2016 which are posted on Perseus's web site www.perseusmining.com. Caution Regarding Forward Looking Information: This report contains forward-looking information which is based on the 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 of the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date that such statements are made, but which may prove to be incorrect. Assumptions have been made by the Company regarding, among other things: the price of gold, continuing commercial production at the Edikan Gold Mine without any major disruption, development of a mine at Sissingue, the receipt of required governmental approvals, the accuracy of capital and operating cost estimates, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers are cautioned that the foregoing list is not exhaustive of all factors and assumptions which may have been used by the Company. Although management believes that the assumptions made by the Company and the expectations represented by such information are reasonable, there can be no assurance that the forward-looking information will prove to be accurate. 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 be materially different from any anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking information. Such factors include, among others, the actual market price of gold, the actual results of current exploration, the actual results of future exploration, changes in project parameters as plans continue to be evaluated, as well as those factors disclosed in the Company's publicly filed documents. The Company believes that the assumptions and expectations reflected in the forward-looking information are reasonable. Assumptions have been made regarding, among other things, the Company's ability to carry on its exploration and development activities, the timely receipt of required approvals, the price of gold, the ability of the Company to operate in a safe, efficient and effective manner and the ability of the Company to obtain financing as and when required and on reasonable terms. Readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking information. Perseus does not undertake to update any forward-looking information, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. To view the document "UK Rule 2.7 announcement", please click on the following link: http://media3.marketwire.com/docs/UKRule27Announcement.pdf The Indian food sector presents exporters with a potentially significant medium- to long-term opportunity. The size of the countrys population around 1.2bn and an expanding middle class are driving growth in demand. In the first on our series of articles taking a deep dive into Indias food industry, just-food spoke to international export associations to find out the potential and pitfalls awaiting companies that want to sell into this promising, yet challenging, market. Total Indian food imports are increasing. According to data from Infodrive India, which monitors import and export trends via shipping data, the value of shipments of foodstuffs to the country rose from US$22.32bn in the 12 months between April 2012 and March 2013, to a total of $25.86bn two years later. The three largest import categories are vegetables; fruit and nuts, peel and citrus fruits; and sugar and confectionery. However, there are also some significant barriers to trade and Indias trade regime and regulatory environment remains comparatively restrictive. India is 130th in the World Banks Ease of Doing Business rankings out of 189 countries. just-food spoke to experts representing trade bodies from around the world to find out how they view Indias potential as a destination for food exports. Holger Hubner, managing director, German Export Association for Food and Agriproducts At the moment German food and agricultural products are under-represented, totally. The value of German food exports [to India] in 2015 was EUR35.9m (US$39.5m). On the other side, German imports of Indian food products reached EUR667m. But, last year, German exports increased by 25.6%. Our focuses are two food categories and three agricultural categories. About 50% of all German food exports to India are covered by sweets and snacks products. With an increasing Indian demand, we export dairy products and cheese from Germany. Within the agricultural sector we extend our export position regarding agricultural machinery, seeds and German livestock. We are concentrating our activities on urban centres with organised retail chains. We are focused on the organised retail chains with a high level of processed and value-added imported foreign food. The online sector will be interesting some years later. The greatest barriers to exporting German food products to India are non-tariff regulations, like customs clearance, nutrition declarations and labelling restrictions. This makes it very difficult for our mostly medium-sized companies to enter the market. Logistics limitations are very important for rural areas, as well as breaks in the cold chain. Red tape in India is a very significant issue for our exporters. If you dont find the support of an experienced importer with the serious efforts to meet all necessary demands it is too difficult for a successful market entry. Michael Rogers, manager of the agribusiness forum at the Australian Food and Grocery Council India is a significant market for Australian agri-food exporters over the medium to long term. The size of the Indian market coupled with wealthy consumers across particular demographics presents both volume and niche opportunities. Australia and India share growing people-to-people and cultural links. The adaptability and complementarity of the Australian agri-food sector makes it well positioned to export to India. There is complementarity in seasonal production of horticultural products, and a wide range of foods in Australia adapted to different taste preferences. The Australian Trade commission highlights that there is opportunity across fresh fruit and vegetables; lamb, pork and goat; dairy products and a wide range of processed food products. The relaxation of foreign investment rules for foreign retailers may create opportunities for Australian exporters to list with global retailers in India. Distribution channels are one of the major challenges in India. Another common challenge with exporting to India is difficulty in managing cold supply chains for meat, dairy and other refrigerated products. As with other major economies, meeting even a small percentage of demand in a major city can result in a significant niche opportunity for an Australian food exporter. Cities with international transport hubs will support imports of products from around the world. Local production may be an option for large companies with proven demand, and a long term view, but is often out of reach of small- to medium-sized companies. It is likely that global manufacturers will continue to develop local production facilities in India. Elsa Fairbanks, director of the UKs Food and Drink Exporters Association The FDEA has long been aware of the growing opportunities in India for UK food and drink exporters so I joined the UK Trade and Investment / Northern Powerhouse trade mission to Mumbai and Bangalore last month [January] to research the market and meet with any many people as possible involved in the imported food and drink supply chain. I was pleasantly surprised by the range of retail outlets that already carry a good selection of UK products and the way that e-commerce is helping to bridge the gap caused by the lack of infrastructure. The market is evolving quickly The future appears to be with e-commerce. Both local players, like Big Basket, and global ones, like Amazon, are working with local importers to bring imported products into India and make them available to a wide range of Indian consumers. Traditional British grocery brands have been in the market for a while now. As India follows major global trends, especially in the area of healthy eating, natural and organic, it is encouraging to see how new and innovative brands are being launched. Dairy, especially cheese is proving successful for a handful of pioneer exporters who have been prepared to invest time and resources to develop business. India still presents challenges to UK food and drink exporters red tape, strict labelling requirements and an endless list of import and other taxes mean that determination and a good local partner are vital. However as more and more UK and other European food and drink companies succeed in getting their products onto retail shelves and e-commerce sites, there is experience to be shared and a growing network of experts to work with. As local production facilities improve, it will make sense for more UK companies to consider joint ventures as a route to market for some products although there will always be a place for products that have come from the UK. Susan Powell, Canadian Food Exporters Association There is opportunity in the Indian market for Canadian products and some of our members are currently selling there. Right now its not a significant growth opportunity for value-added products, though, as the import duties are very high. Canadas growth is strong in the ingredient sector and more specifically for the pulse industry (lentils in particular). For our value-added members, they are primarily looking at the retail trade but there is growing opportunity in the online business with some start-ups there. Logistics for frozen or refrigerated continues to be an issue and our members have reported that there is significant red tape for some products entering the country. We are hoping down the road both the Canadian and Indian governments get together to negotiate a free-trade agreement as that would open up more opportunities for value-added products and eliminate not only the high tariffs but the red tape (hopefully). India [remains] a fairly new market for our members and the association. Check back throughout the week for further instalments in just-foods examination of the Indian food sector. We will be taking in a range of issues, from consumer trends to food safety. Korean beauty products have made extraordinary inroads into the American market in the past two years. The explosive reception of innovative cosmetics like BB Cream sparked interest in the myriad items K-Beauty has to offer including anti-aging serums and face masks. K-Drama actresses Jun Ji Hyun and Park Shin Hye fuel the growing desire for the K-Beauty market, through their use of social media and stunning lipstick shades on dramas like "My Love from the Star." On Wednesday, March 9, The Korea Society will shine a spotlight on this growing export with the K-Beauty Show. Alicia Yoon of Peach & Lily, a Flushing-based purveyor of goodies ranging from snail essence creams to CC cushions, will appear on a panel of beauty experts. Peach & Lily originated as an online market for curated imported products, before opening a brick-and-mortar location in Macy's Flushing in late 2015. "All the while, I kept dreaming of that offline retail store where we could meet our consumers face-to-face and understand exactly what their skin type and skin needs are, provide immediate support on how to tweak, totally change or upgrade a current skincare routine, and show/demo products that would really work to transform skin to a healthy radiant glow," said Yoon, in a statement regarding the retail flagship. She will joined by makeup artist Seong Hee Park. Park is credited for makeup artistry in print advertisements, as well as fashion editorials. In 2015, she worked with fashion luminary, Alexander Wang, for his August W magazine shoot. Yoon and Park will be joined by a magazine beauty editor, as well as, a YouTube personality. Attendees will have the opportunity to participate in one-on-one beauty consultations and giveaways, in addition to the panel discussion. Tickets for K-Beauty Show are priced at $10 for members and $20 for non-members. Explorers and Above can attend free with RSVP. Additional details about the K-Beauty Show can be found on The Korea Society website. "Youth Over Flowers: Africa" continues to attract viewers and remains the most popular installment of the variety program. On February 26, the second episode delivered 10.4 percent in cable viewership. "Reply 1988" stars Ryu Jun Yeol, Park Bo Gum, Go Kyung Pyo, and Ahn Hae Jong endured the harsh conditions of the African desert, in their attempts to view its sweeping sunset and natural splendor. The quartet is referred to as the Ssangmun-Dong brothers in honor of their characters on the tvN family drama which concluded on January 16. Their casting in "Youth Over Flowers" followed the success of "Reply 1988." They unwittingly joined the project when they were kidnapped from their cast vacation in Phuket and delivered to the Namib desert. The series highlights the talents of each actor, with Ryu Jun Yeol demonstrating his English-language skills and Park Bo Gum reflecting a cheerful demeanor. In the second episode, the adventurous stars successfully navigate their rental car to their first destination, Sossusvlei. Ahn merrily cooked for the group, who tackled their first camping trip in the desert. Ryu and Park Bo continue to defy rumors of on-set tension during the filming of "Reply 1988," as the pair discussed the hardships faced by their families. "Do you have a family photo?," asked Park, during a conversation regarding their familial relationships. "We have yet to take one, together." The tvN series premiered on February 19 with 11.8 percent, defeating the previous record for the January 8 episode. During its airing, the first episode of "Youth Over Flowers: Africa" received an average audience of 12.7 percent, with a high of 14.7 percent of cable subscribers tuning in. "Youth Over Flowers: Africa" airs on tvN in the Friday 8:40 p.m. time slot. The variety program will broadcast on Channel M for Southeast Asian audiences beginning March 5. Korean action star, Lee Byung Hun, attracted positive attention for his appearance as a presenter at the 88th Academy Awards (Oscars). "I am happy to be the first Asian actor to be a presenter at the Academy Awards," said Lee, during an ABC News interview segment, prior to the ceremony. Lee was accompanied by Colombian-American actress Sofia Vergara to present the award in the Best Foreign Language Film category. However, the thrill of Lee's accomplishment as the first Korean-native to present an award at the Oscars was marred by an off-color joke delivered by ceremony emcee, Chris Rock. "The results of tonight's Academy Awards have been tabulated by Price, Waterhouse, and Cooper," said Rock, in a statement referencing the accounting firm who is responsible for tabulating the results of Academy votes for the Oscars. "They sent us their most dedicated, accurate, and hardworking representatives." Rock then introduced three Asian children who were provided with stereotypical names to represent Asian and Jewish heritage. "If anybody's upset about that joke, just tweet about it on your phone, which was also made by these kids," said Rock, in dismissive reference to the sketch. Viewers flocked to Twitter, posting reactions that ranged from dismay to harsh criticism of the Academy for airing the sketch. "Think my brain shut down for a few minutes," said Variety film critic, Justin Chang. "Did that appalling joke about Asian kids actually happen?" On a positive note, Lee Byung Hun was not the only Korean celebrity who attended the Oscars. Esteemed opera vocalist, Sumi Jo, was also present for the festivities. According to a report published by Yonhap News, the 54-year-old soloist was invited to the Oscars as the artist credited for "Simple Song #3," a nominee in the Best Original Song category. Can Donald Trump be stopped short of the Republican nomination? Probably not. But the rational wing of the party has to try quickly and forcefully to make that happen. The stakes are far too high for the rationalists to stay on the sidelines, and their first motive should be political self-interest. I think Trump would be a disaster, says strategist Stuart Stevens, speaking for many pragmatic Republicans. With The Donald heading the ticket, pragmatists fear, the GOP could not only lose the White House, but also the Senate. But there is a deeper reason, beyond partisanship, to stop Trump: He is one of the least qualified candidates ever to make a serious run for the presidency. He would not make America great again. He would not increase our power and influence; he would degrade it. Thats why the national interest requires a maximum effort to thwart Trump now. Trumps performance has been remarkably consistent. He received 32.5 percent of the vote in the South Carolina primary but 45 percent in Nevada. In a fragmented field, thats been enough to win. But what happens when the field narrows? Sure, Trump will attract some voters who supported other contenders, but hes been a prominent national figure for many years. People have had plenty of time to consider his credentials, and two-thirds of Republicans have consistently rejected him. He has both a strong following and a significant ceiling. So how can his opponents solidify the anti-Trump vote? They cannot cut off campaign funds. And through his skillful use of TV and social media, Trump has effectively created his own platform, The Trump Network, to reach his followers directly. Marco Rubio is already attracting many donors and party leaders who had backed Jeb Bush, but those Bushies have painfully demonstrated that their checks and endorsements have limited value this year. That leaves only one real way to block Trump: Convince enough voters that he would be a dangerous choice for the party and country. One-third of the GOP seems immune to those blandishments, but that leaves plenty of other targets, and here are three lines of argument that might work. One: Trump cannot win in November. In a recent AP poll, 60 percent of all registered voters expressed an unfavorable view of Trump and 54 percent said they would definitely not vote for him. The death of Justice Antonin Scalia gives the anti-Trumpists added ammunition. Elections have consequences. Almost certainly, the first job of the new president will be to pick Scalias replacement, which will affect the courts balance for a generation. Two: Trumps policies are deeply flawed. Some are totally unworkable and profoundly cynical, such as throwing out undocumented immigrants. Others are truly damaging, such as igniting a trade war with China or barring Muslims from entering the country. That would hand ISIS a public relations coup and alienate the very allies we need to fight the jihadists. Three: Trump lacks the character and temperament to be president. Princeton political scientist Fred I. Greenstein studied the last 12 presidents, and concluded that emotional intelligence was the most important quality in determining their success. Beware the presidential contender who lacks emotional intelligence, he wrote. In its absence, all else may turn to ashes. Americans want and need a president who will keep them safe and secure, who will meet a crisis with calm judgment and clear vision. Nothing in Trumps background absolutely nothing remotely qualifies him to be that kind of leader. And his late-night tweets, often unfair and unhinged, only aggravate concerns about his stability. Thats why Republicans of good will and good sense must try to stop him. FILE - In this August 4, 2014, file photo, a woman walks by a graffiti that reads in Spanish "Vultures," in reference to the dispute between the Argentine government and a U.S. hedge fund, known locally as "vulture funds," in Buenos Aires, Argentina. In a statement Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, Daniel A. Pollack, appointed arbiter in the negotiations between the Argentine government and U.S. holdout creditors, said that a deal has been reached that will put an end to a standoff that has kept the South American country on the margins of international credit markets. (AP Photo/Victor R. Caivano, File) As hopes for a more stable and subdued trading day in equities faded, gold leaped ahead to start the week. In late afternoon, gold is up over $16. In fact, the whole precious metals complex, reflecting not just the appeal of haven buying but an overall interest in metals for profit, is up heartily. Platinum boomed up over 2.00% on the session. Equities in Asia began the downward movement overnight. Shanghai fared the worst, down almost 3.00%. Hong Kong and the Nikkei were also down significantly. Europe escaped the malaise, but just barely. The French CAC and London FTSE were up ever so slightly, while the DAX was down marginally. U.S. stocks were down across the three major indexes, although not enough to draw strong conclusions. The slides on the Dow, S&P and NADAQ were in the half-percent range. Weak economic news weighed on American markets. The Chicago Purchasing Managers Index came in at 47.6 in February, missing expectations and dropping from 55.6 in January. Pending home sales nationally fell by 2.5% in January against expectations for a slight gain. One analyst said the equities were a little tired. The general view is that weve come a good ways fairly fast and people are watching their backs, especially as today was the end of a month. On Friday, both the Dow and S&P 500 closed above their 50-day moving averages. We think there is also remaining fear about China. The second-biggest economy in the world cut its bank reserve ratio, an indication credit is still too tight there. The equities stumble was in spite of the rise in crude oil. West Texas Intermediate settled up 3.00% on the day. Notable was a 5.00% drop in the price of natural gas as a continuing mild winter in the northern hemisphere helps reserves to pile up. Oil was up on chatter that Saudi Arabia is going to come to the table concerning production and pricing issues that other producing nations have been clamoring for. On cue, U.S. shale oil producers said they would jump back in the market at $40 to $45 per barrel, a far lower level than their previous profit point price of roughly $60 per barrel. The yield on the U.S. 10-year was down nominally, indicating little interest in the paper as a haven. Why bother when gold is so strong? For those who would like a deeper analysis with detailed buy and sell recommendations, I invite you to try our daily video newsletter. Simply use the link at the bottom of this report to sign up for a free trial. Wishing you, as always, good trading, Gary Wagner thegoldforecast.com Newmont Mining Corp, (NYSE: NEM) is planning to pay down some of its debt obligations, announcing a $500 million debt tender offer, Monday. In a press release the company says that it plans to pay up to $400 million for its 5.125% Senior Notes, due 2019. The rest of the money will be spread with priority going to the companys 6.250% Senior Notes, due 2039, $3.500% and then Senior Notes due 2022 and 5.875% Senior Notes due 20135. Note holders have until noon EST, March 38 to submit their bonds for the buy-back program. According to the press release, bond holders of the 2019 notes could receive hypothetical total consideration of $1,072.28 per $1,000 note due 2019. At the same time investors could receive a total payout of $921.98 for the senior notes due in 2039, $971.22 for the note due 2022 and $894.60 for notes due 20235. The firms managing the tender offer are Bank of America Merrill Lynch and Goldman Sachs, with Mizuho Securities, as a co-dealer manager. After paying down the debt, the company will still have about half a billion in 2019 notes with 0.75% due February 15, 2019.Its been the result of a lot of hard work over the last several years to continue to get our costs structure down, said the companys CEO Gary Goldberg, in an interview with Kitco News at the BMO Metals & Mining Conference. We look at not only reducing our net debt but with this step our total debt within the business. By Neils Christensen of Kitco News; nchristensen@kitco.com Follow me on Twitter @neils_C OceanaGold Announces Design Enhancements At Haile; Construction On Schedule Monday February 29, 2016 09:39 OceanaGold Corp. (TSX/ASX/NZX: OGC) says design of the Haile project in South Carolina has been improved to allow a more robust operation, with construction are on schedule for first ore through the mill by the end of 2016.OceanaGold acquired Haile in a merger with Romarco Minerals Inc. last year. The capital cost of Haile is now estimated at $380 million, with $160 million spent to date. The total is a 14% increase from the original Romarco December 2014 technical report estimate of $333 million. Construction activities at Haile are going well, the company says. All but two major construction contracts have been issued to local contractors and $240 million of the total capital was committed as of the end of January. Engineering is 98% complete while procurement is 82% complete. Our teams extensive development and operations experience has resulted in design enhancements for the Haile project which, based on our past experience, will ensure a robust and efficient project that is on track for first ore through the mill by the end of 2016, says Mick Wilkes, president and chief executive officer. The company also issued an upbeat assessment of its exploration program. By Allen Sykora of Kitco News; asykora@kitco.com Endeavour Mining Announces Increase In Reserves Monday February 29, 2016 09:39 Endeavour Mining (TSX: EDV; OTCQX:EDVMF) says that as of the end of 2015, proven and probable mineral reserves stood at 5.9 million ounces of gold, while measured and indicated mineral resources amounted to 11 million, representing 32% and 39% increases, respectively, over the previous year. "We are very pleased with our 2015 exploration program as the success achieved through reserve replacement and mine life extension at both Agbaou and Tabakoto is expected to generate immediate value, says Neil Woodyer, chief executive officer of Endeavour. Furthermore, the value-accretive Ity mine acquisition has added 1.6Moz of reserves and 3.1Moz of M&I resources, at an implied price of $9 per attributable M&I resource ounce, which compares very favorably to our average discovery cost. By Allen Sykora of Kitco News; asykora@kitco.com Coeur Extends High-Grade Mineralization At Rochester Monday February 29, 2016 09:39 Coeur Mining, Inc. (NYSE: CDE) announces the extension of high-grade silver-gold mineralization at the Rochester mine in northwestern Nevada at the East Rochester zone. Favorable results include 179.1 feet of 4.75 ounces-per-tonne silver and 0.009 oz/t gold, or 5.31 oz/ton silver- equivalent, Coeur says. Drilling began in 2014. Coeur Mining is the largest U.S.-based silver producer and a significant gold producer with five precious metals mines in the Americas. By Allen Sykora of Kitco News; asykora@kitco.com Central Kitsap Fire and Rescues Rob Law explains the use of the automated external defibrillator to people who came to the free CPR class Sunday at the YMCA in Silverdale. SHARE The two main items used in the CPR class, held Sunday at the Silverdale YMCA, were the CPR mannequin and the automated external defibrillator. Yelena Watson, of Harrison Hospital, gives Emily Dixon, of Bremerton, a high-five after practicing CPR with a defibrillator with her mother, Stacey, at the daylong CPR class Sunday at the Silverdale YMCA. By Ed Friedrich of the Kitsap Sun SILVERDALE Seven hundred more people learned how to save lives Sunday and a new tool was introduced to alert them when there's an opportunity. Central Kitsap Fire and Rescue and Harrison Medical Center personnel conducted eight one-hour sessions at the Haselwood Family YMCA. Participants broke into small pods to perform hands-on cardiopulmonary resuscitation and apply automated external defibrillators (AED) to dummies, then learned about a PulsePoint app they can download to their smartphones. "The community is part of our team," said paramedic Kevin Bernt, who proposed the event six months ago and directed it Sunday. "They're the difference between surviving and not surviving. They're the most important part of the chain of survival." Each year in the United States, 359,000 people suffer cardiac arrests outside the hospital, usually at home. Ninety percent die. Seventy percent of people feel helpless to act. CPR during the time it takes emergency crews to arrive can double or triple their chances. "Most likely you'll be saving a life of someone you love," Bernt said. Hands-on CPR isn't difficult and can't hurt the victim. Firefighter Brian Soete showed a pod how to uncover the chest, place the heel of one hand between the person's nipples, put the other hand on top, lock fingers and push down 1 inches about 100 times per minute. Then the viewers got to try. "Wow, that's a workout," said Bobby Driskell, of Silverdale. "I do a lot of volunteering at my daughter's school, and I thought it'd be better to know more of this. Also I'm a UPS driver and while I'm out there on my route I never know what I'm going to see." Natalie Christopherson, of Bremerton, had taken a CPR class long ago but needed a refresher. "I'm out and about a lot and have a daughter," she said. "If I can help save somebody's life someday, I'd like to be able to." Daughter Abby, 12, thought it'd be good to know CPR when she's baby-sitting this summer. Next came AEDs. Two people are preferred, one to perform CPR while the other works around them and sticks an AED pad below the left armpit and another above the right breast. The unit reads the victim's heart, determines what it needs and tells responders step by step what to do. If a shock is prescribed, it says to get away and push a button, which lights up. Once accomplished, they get right back to compressions. AEDs won't hurt the patient or the caregiver, medical division chief Rob Law told his pod. They won't shock a person who doesn't need it. And good Samaritans can't be sued for helping. Mouth-to-mouth CPR still is the gold standard, particularly with children. It's required for certification that can be earned via a two-hour paid class. Sunday's event was free. The trouble with traditional CPR is patients might have vomit or blood on their mouth, making people reluctant to help them, or they're uncomfortable touching lips in general. They're more apt to perform chest compressions, which gets the blood flowing. "It's better to do something than nothing," Bernt said. The PulsePoint app can be downloaded for free by Sunday's participants to raise survival odds of those suffering heart attacks in public places. It is integrated into the county 911 system and alerts CPR-trained bystanders in the immediate vicinity so they can get to the scene and start CPR. An alarm goes off in phones within a quarter-mile. Their screens show CPR is needed, with a map and address. There's a how-to button for CPR and a beat for 100 compressions per minute. It also alerts bystanders of any nearby public AEDs. PulsePoint was made possible through a partnership with Harrison Medical Center Foundation and a project called "Touching Hearts Saving Lives." The $1 million, donor-funded initiative aims at improving cardiac arrest survival through key investments in the community, the emergency management system and Harrison Medical Center. Harrison Foundation board member David Veterane of Bainbridge Island funded PulsePoint's implementation. Janice DiPietro plans with her team for changes in recruitment as a seller's employment market emerges. She is founder and CEO of Exceptional Leaders International LLC in Boston. (Credit: Exceptional Leaders International LLC) Job-hunting in a difficult economy is, well, difficult. As the job market eases, job seekers and employers alike may discover that their work isnt easier, but different, requiring new tactics, skills and involvement. Todays talk of an emerging sellers market should awaken companies and job hunters to shifts on both sides of the hiring desk. How can you tell when a sellers market is emerging? Whether youre looking for a job or an employee, what changes do you need to make? Two characteristics of a sellers market, according to Janice DiPietro, founder and CEO of Bostons Exceptional Leaders International LLC, are an extended period of declining unemployment, shrinking the pool of strong candidates, and companies changing markets. These dynamics complicate the hiring process for employers and applicants. JOB SEEKERS If a company is in the midst of change, you may have to do more of your own research to understand the new direction and the needs its creating. The usual written resources may be outdated, even if theyre on the Web. You may have to interview more people at the company, onsite or at professional associations. DiPietro says that although the extent of a sellers market varies by industry, position and geographic location, its easier for people to change sectors and make non-lateral moves (based on) your core competencies and transferable skills. What needs are you uncovering? How can you express your skills to clarify how they will transfer? In other words, getting hired or promoted is easier in a sellers market when you can convey which of your skills may convincingly be repackaged to fit new or emerging situations. You may not even have to leave your current company, but you may have to think differently about how to present your work. If you find that some of your skills arent transferable to ones a company needs, can you make a sufficiently strong case to persuade the company to hire you and provide training? Or will it expect you to identify your own training resources before youre hired? How well does that demonstrate a desire to invest in employees over the long term as the company changes? EMPLOYERS In an emerging sellers market, companies face their own challenges in recruiting. Usha Mirchandani observes that some job seekers may have skills using technology without meeting the emerging need for data, digital and analytics skills. Mirchandani is a partner in the Talent, Reward & Performance Practice at the Morristown, New Jersey, office of Aon Hewitt, a business of Aon plc, headquartered in London, England. In such cases, employers are called to assess whether applicants are sufficiently committed to learn how to develop greater capability, and people will be reinventing their careers and gaining the ability to use data and analytics in delivering their functional work. DiPietro comments that executives must increase their engagement in the recruitment process by becoming visible through public forums to strengthen market awareness of a companys objectives. Also, employees should be tapped to bring referrals. She anticipates greater use of executive search firms. The job of employers is further complicated in a sellers market, because employers have to assess learning agility, the ability to navigate change, Mirchandani points out. She adds that employers need to be able to function with a global workforce through virtual and networking tools. However, DiPietro notes that in the recruitment process, Technology has had an impact. It has actually complicated things. She advocates greater personal contact, more widespread contribution from employees, whom she calls an underutilized asset. Recruitment becomes more multifaceted, shifting to more reliance on people and less on technology. (Knoxville News Sentinel syndicated columnist Mildred Culp, Ph.D., welcomes your questions. Contact her at culp@workwise.net. 2016 Passage Media.) SHARE By Wayne Bledsoe of the Knoxville News Sentinel The 2016 Big Ears Festival will conclude with a free performance of John Luther Adams' "Inuksuit." The event will take place at noon, Sunday, April 3, at Mead's Quarry at Ijams Nature Center. Adams, who won a Pultizer Prize in 2014 for his compositions, is the 2016 Big Ears artist-in-residence and several of his compositions will be performed as part of the event, including "Become Ocean," which will be performed by the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra on on March 31 at the Tennessee Theatre. "Inuksuit" is designed for outdoor performance and utilizes from nine to 99 percussionists playing conch shells, airhorns, sirens, gongs, maracas, drums, cymbals, glockenspiels and other instruments. Steven Schick, of the Knoxville Symphony Orchestra, and Andrew Bliss, University of Tennessee assistant professor of Percussion, will co-direct the work with contributions from dozens of regional percussionists and UT students. Schick and Bliss have both been involved in previous performances of the work, including a Knoxville performance staged for the Earth Day 2014. Adams was in attendance for that performance and met Big Ears founder Ashley Capps. "It was an amazing experience," said Capps, in a press release. "It was completely exhilaratingBig Ears 2014 had just taken place and that performance was like an affirmation and continuation. ... We immediately began the conversation about coming to Big Ears. So it's all come full circle and this is the perfect way to celebrate!" The New York Times described "Inuksuit" as "the ultimate environmental piece" and The New Yorker's Alex Ross hailed it as "one of the most rapturous experiences of my listening life." The Big Ears festival will be held Thursday, March 31, thorugh Sunday, April 3, at various venues in and near downtown Knoxville. Tickets are $135 for weekend passes, $49.50 for one-day passes and $30 for nightly Tennessee Theatre performances. Tickets are available at www.BigEarsFestival.com. The noon April 3 finale performance of "Inuksuit" is free to the public and sponsored by Moxley Carmichael. Audiences are asked to arrive by 11:45 a.m. Jason Edward Lee SHARE By News Sentinel Staff CLINTON An Anderson County man charged with child rape has pleaded guilty to a reduced charge of aggravated sexual battery and received a 12-year sentence. Other charges sexual battery by an authority figure and aggravated sexual battery against Jason Edward Lee were dismissed in the plea agreement reached Friday in Anderson County Criminal Court. Lee, 35, of Clinton was charged in connection with an incident that occurred between Nov. 2 and Nov. 4, 2012, according to indictments. The victim was a child less than 13 but older than 3. Lee was arrested in July 2014 after an investigation that included an agent with the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. He has been jailed since his arrest. After he completes his sentence, Lee will be under community supervision for the rest of his life, court records state. Knoxville Police Department officers direct emergency personnel at a shooting scene on Ault Street near Ivy Avenue in East Knoxville on Thursday, Feb. 25, 2016. (MICHAEL PATRICK/NEWS SENTINEL) SHARE By News Sentinel Staff Authorities on Monday identified the alleged shooter and victims in an altercation Thursday that left one man dead and two people wounded in East Knoxville. Lozerik Shantell Boyd, 35, died in an alley near the home of Da'jaun Ty-jec Williams, 24, who police believe shot Boyd after an argument became physical, according to the Knoxville Police Department. The argument began inside Williams' home, 514 Ault St., and continued into the yard where the 11:42 a.m. shooting took place near the intersection of Ivy Street, police said. Boyd was from Michigan but had been living with Williams for an unspecified period of time prior to his slaying, according to police. Latashia Lakoe Brown, 28, also was shot. The Michigan woman jumped in a car and drove away from the scene, but soon crashed into a parked car on nearby Lilac Road, police said. Brown was later taken to the University of Tennessee Medical Center in serious condition, according to police. Williams also was hospitalized, but his condition was not immediately available. Neighbors said they heard five to 10 gunshots. The cause of the argument was not released. SHARE Nursing names assistant dean Shelia Swift is the new assistant dean for undergraduate programs at the University of Tennessee College of Nursing. Swift is a clinical assistant professor and has severed as interim assistant dean role since December. Students to show off their cultures An international talent show titled "Fifteen Minutes of Fame" is 6:30 p.m. Tuesday in the Cox Auditorium of the Alumni Memorial Building, 1408 Middle Drive. It is free and open to the public. UT foreign language students will showcase the cultures they study through music, songs, dance and more. Awards will be given to the best performances. Organization lauds architecture dean Scott Poole, dean of the UT College of Architecture and Design, was elected to the American Institute of Architects College of Fellows. The program honors architects who have made significant contributions to the field and to society on a national level. Fewer than 3,200 of the 88,000 institute members have earned this distinction. Professors launches new documentary Land Grant Films is a new documentary project started by Nick Geidner, UT assistant professor in journalism. The project will give students hands-on documentary experience and provide free video services to local nonprofits. A fundraising campaign has started for the project with a goal of $50,000 before the 2016-17 school year. Fraternity receives chapter recognition UT's chapter of Delta Tau Delta has received the international fraternity's Hugh Shields Award. The award, presented to UT's chapter on Feb. 13, is the highest honor the fraternity gives, and only the top 10 chapters in the country receive it each year. This is the UT chapter's second Hugh Shields Award since 2008. Criteria for the award include recruitment growth, campus involvement in non-Greek organizations, participation in the fraternity's philanthropy the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the chapter's combined grade-point average, according to a news release. Supporters in Knoxville waiting for Republican presidential candidate Marco Rubio to arrive at TAC Air Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. (MICHAEL PATRICK/NEWS SENTINEL) SHARE Supporters came early to make sure they could get inside a rally for Republicsn presidential candidate Marco Rubio at TAC Air in Knoxville Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. (MICHAEL PATRICK/NEWS SENTINEL) The Green family arriving to support Republican presidential candidate Marco Rubio who make a stop at TAC Air in Knoxville Monday, Feb. 29, 2016. In front is Isaac, 10, then Zeke, Court, Elijah, Ammi, and father Richard Green. (MICHAEL PATRICK/NEWS SENTINEL) By Gerald Witt of the Knoxville News Sentinel At Monday's rally for Republican presidential hopeful Marco Rubio, surely some of those gathered wished they could have their votes back. Early voting in Tennessee began before Jeb Bush dropped out of the GOP presidential primary race, and Rubio visited East Tennessee on Monday looking for support against a front-runner Donald Trump. "This is a function of staying in the contest," Zach Wamp, a former congressman and Rubio's Tennessee campaign chairman, said as he waited for the candidate to appear at an airfield hangar alongside McGhee Tyson Airport. Certainly a few in the crowd voted early for Bush, some of those at the event agreed. "I voted for Rubio," Knox County Commissioner Bob Thomas said. "But there is probably some truth to that, and that's the thing about early voting." He and others characterized the Republican primary as a race between Trump and Rubio. In his speech, Rubio called Trump a con man and cited his failure over the weekend to immediately denounce the endorsement of David Duke, a former grand wizard for the Ku Klux Klan. He touched briefly on Democrats Hillary Clinton and Bernie Sanders, but kept most of the attacks focused on Trump and making the case that the billionaire businessman is unfit to lead the country. "To him, it's 'we'll figure it out when we get there'," Rubio said. "He's like the dog who caught the car." Wamp joined in the effort against Trump, calling him "a wild man," and his campaign a marketing scheme. "He's alienating and polarizing so badly that he hurts the conservative movement, if not the Republican Party," Wamp said. Former Tennessee Republican Party Chairwoman Susan Richardson Williams said she initially backed Bush, but that her allegiance changed when the former Florida governor dropped out of the race. She's now in the Rubio camp, and joined Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam, U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander and the roughly 1,000 people at the TAC Air hangar where Rubio spoke Monday. She said recent polls have Trump winning Tennessee with 40 percent of the vote, Ted Cruz with 22 and Rubio with 19 percent. For purposes of getting a share of Tennessee's delegates, 20 percent is the minimum. Wamp is optimistic. "Sen. Rubio could do well enough that he could go to Florida and give Trump a run for his money," Wamp said. "Then if he wins Florida, it's game over, (Rubio) is going to win the nomination." A Trump win would hand the presidency to Clinton, according to Wamp. "Donald Trump will get slaughtered in November by Hillary Clinton," Wamp predicted. "If we give him the nomination, we're giving Hillary Clinton the White House." And that's why Rubio supporters want at least 20 percent of Tennessee votes maybe even more than a win. "First or second is great, but make sure you pick up delegates everywhere," the Chattanooga Republican said. The race may go beyond the primaries and be decided at the Republican National Convention this summer, he suggested. "We may go to Cleveland and have a contested convention," Wamp said. "That may actually happen." Mark Nagi, Tennessee Department of Transportation spokesman, takes a photo of the damage from Fridays slope slide on Interstate 75 North at mile maker 142 in Campbell County, on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016. I-75 will remain closed in both directions through Monday and motorist could see closures for weeks to come as TDOT geotechnical engineers evaluate the slide. (Shawn Millsaps/Special to News Sentinel) SHARE A large boulder bent a barrier along Interstate 75 South as it tumbled across the northbound lanes at mile marker 142 early Sunday, due to Fridays slope slide in Campbell County. I-75 will remain closed in both directions through Monday and motorists could see closures for weeks to come as TDOT geotechnical engineers evaluate the slide. (Shawn Millsaps/Special to News Sentinel) Journalists document the damage from Fridays rock side along Interstate 75 North at mile marker 142 in Campbell County, on Sunday, Feb. 28, 2016. I-75 will remain closed in both directions through Monday and motorists could see closures for weeks to come as TDOT geotechnical engineers evaluate the slide. (Shawn Millsaps/Special to News Sentinel) Related Coverage One lane of I-75 North reopens after rockslide By News Sentinel Staff Debris continued to tumble onto Interstate 75 in Campbell County on Sunday after a "significant" rock slide shut down all lanes Friday afternoon, state officials said. Cleanup efforts have been limited amid the ongoing rockfall, which blocked the northbound lanes near mile marker 142, and has since begun rolling into the southbound lanes as well, said Mark Nagi, Tennessee Department of Transportation spokesman. "We're still expecting this to be a long-term closure weeks instead of days," Nagi said Sunday. "The slope is unstable. Rocks are still falling." TDOT geotechnical engineers were inspecting the slope Sunday. The agency expected to let an emergency cleanup contract Monday. Nagi said TDOT officials should have a better idea of next steps by Monday or Tuesday. The rock slide began around 3 p.m. Friday when boulders as large as 6-feet wide rolled into the northbound lanes. The rockfall continued as media personnel toured the site Sunday morning, including at least one rock big enough that it damaged a metal column supporting a cable barrier in the median. No injuries have been reported amid the rockfall. TDOT contractors undertook a massive slope stabilization project in the area in 2012 after the embankment gave way under the southbound lanes at mile marker 143. TDOT engineers called it one of the largest such slope failures in more than 20 years. The $9.3 million project that followed required the complete reconstruction of a 180-foot stretch of the southbound lanes and extensive work to buttress the hillside. Drivers headed north are being detoured at Exit 134, along U.S. Highway 25W through LaFollette, Tenn., and into Jellico, then back onto I-75 at Exit 160. Southbound traffic should take Exit 160 for Jellico, then follow state Highway 297 to state Highway 63 and back onto I-75 at Exit 141. Wide loads should take Interstate 40 East to Interstate 81 North, then take Exit 8 at Morristown and follow U.S. Highway 25E back to I-75 in Corbin, Ky. SHARE By Richard Locker, locker@knoxnews.com NASHVILLE When Gov. Bill Haslam signed Tennessee's Wine in Grocery Stores bill into law March 20, 2014, it's likely that most Tennesseans assumed wine would be on their grocery store shelves on the date specified in the law: July 1, 2016 giving the industry and regulators two years and three months to get ready. But there was a contradictory, little-noticed provision in the 2014 act that means despite two years of preparations wine won't be flying off the shelves of grocery stores on July 1 unless lawmakers act again soon. The 2014 act says the state Alcoholic Beverage Commission "shall begin issuing retail food store wine licenses on July 1, 2016" the same day retail sales are authorized and that license "shall permit the licensee to receive, store, possess and sell wine at retail." The act does give the ABC authority to accept and "begin processing" license applications from grocers before July 1 but the ABC says the law doesn't permit it to issue a license until July 1 and without it, no grocer can receive shipments of wine, store it or even possess it until a license is issued. ABC Executive Director Keith Bell told a legislative committee Monday that his regulatory agency has received 200 wine-sales license applications from grocers and expects to receive a total of 500 by July 1. "Quiet honestly, we have started reviewing them (applications) and processing them in a sense because we can't wait for the last minute or we're going to be inundated with more work than we can possibly accomplish in a short period of time," Bell said. "We don't have the people to do it with." Further complicating matters is the fact that the ABC is still operating on a paper and mail system of licensing: its new $3 million computer system won't be operational until at least the end of May, Bell told the House Finance Committee during a budget hearing Monday. That means, he said, a paper application arrives in the mail; at some point, one of the ABC's 36 inspectors goes out to inspect the store for the qualifications and restrictions written into the law; and on or after July 1, a license will be mailed out. In addition, grocers must obtain clearance letters from their local government certifying the applicant has not been convicted of a felony within the previous 10 years and that the applicant has a location complying with all zoning laws. "Because our new (computer system) is not online yet, we are still having to use the paper functioning and that takes a whole lot of time for us. We're looking at approximately 500 (applications) by mid-June as our guesstimate. That does not even take into consideration the convenience stores, the mom-and-pop convenience stores," Bell said. "I came from the private sector and when I came to the ABC, it just amazed me how far behind the ABC was." Inspectors must primarily determine if a grocery store has at least 1,200 square feet of retail space and that food comprises at least 20 percent of its overall sales, as required by the law. To determine that, the ABC is working on an arrangement with the state Department of Revenue to confirm food sales, which are taxed less, as a percentage of overall sales tax revenue collected by an applying store. "Would it be correct to say this would be a process that will take some time?" asked state Rep. Curry Todd, R-Collierville, a Finance Committee member. "Yes, it is taking a considerable length of time and person power," Bell said. The Senate on Monday approved a bill that would expedite the process, allowing the ABC to issue letters of approval and for approved stores to stock wine prior to July 1, while maintaining the July 1 sales date. But the bill has become bogged down in the House over a dispute over whether to limit the number of retail liquor stores a single owner can own. By Georgiana Vines of the Knoxville News Sentinel Republican presidential aspirant Marco Rubio told East Tennesseans on Monday if they elect him to help Americans fulfill their hopes and dreams for a better future, he will restore funds to the military budget, direct foreign policy with "moral authority," conduct "a real war on terrorists" that will imprison them at Guantanamo Bay and "take care of veterans again." The U.S. senator from Florida presented himself as an alternative to frontrunner Donald Trump whom he said has spent his life "cheating the little guy" that can defeat presumptive Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton. "We can't allow Hillary Clinton to be elected," he said, drawing a rousing "No" from the crowd of about 1,300 in a hangar at TAC Air Knoxville at McGhee Tyson Airport a day before Tennessee holds its primary as part of Super Tuesday. Among the reasons Rubio cited for not electing Clinton is that he considers her disqualified as a command of chief. "She lied to families of the victims in Benghazi," he said, referencing the attack on the American diplomatic compound in Libya in which four Americans were killed, including the U.S. ambassador. The events in Benghazi and the aftermath are the subject of fierce partisan debate, with Clinton, who was secretary of state at the time, as the centerpiece. Rubio's appearance in the Knoxville area was part of a four-state swing he made on Monday. With the visit, all five Republican presidential candidates remaining in the field were in Knoxville prior to the primary. The crowd greeted Rubio with shouts of "Rocky Top" a couple of times and then yelling out his name as he entered the hanger after his plane touched down at the airport. Former Congressman Zach Wamp, Rubio's Tennessee chairman, prepped the crowd in advance. U.S. Sen. Lamar Alexander, who endorsed Rubio on Sunday, said he would vote for him on Tuesday. "He's a conservative who can inspire us," Alexander said. Tennessee Gov. Bill Haslam said Republicans "only can win if we have the right person" who knows what he wants to do as president. Trump is malleable and indicates he'll work things out as needed, the former Knoxville mayor said. "It will be too late," Haslam said. Haslam also noted that Rubio had served in state government. "He understands powers (of government) are to be led by the state," Haslam said. Rubio picked up on that theme and said if elected president he will embrace the U.S. Constitution and its amendments, particularly the 10th, which provides "that government has power at the state level, not in Washington." Rubio spent much of his talk Monday saying Trump's candidacy was taking advantage of people's fears, anger and anxieties and questioned how the New York billionaire could blame "an earpiece" for not understanding questions about white nationalist David Duke's support. This was a reference to Trump's explanation Monday on misunderstanding questions on CNN over the weekend about who was supporting him. "He refuses to criticize the Ku Klux Klan," Rubio said, asking rhetorically how could someone like that become the Republican standard bearer in November. In discussing the role of commander-in-chief, Rubio said the world has become much more dangerous under President Barack Obama and he would take steps to change that. Among the issues he listed was the building up of military forces by China in the South China Sea. Then he added that Trump-branded suits and ties sold in stores are made in China. "If he is interested in bringing back American jobs, he could start this very morning by announcing that every product that says Donald Trump on it will be made in America. I challenge him to do that," Rubio said. Rubio poked fun at Trump's windswept hairstyle when he heard a plane engine roar briefly. He said he was making sure it wasn't Trump's plane, calling it "Hair Force One," a parody on the presidential jet. State Sen. Becky Duncan Massey of Knoxville, who is a candidate as an at-large Rubio delegate, led a prayer at the rally prior to Rubio's appearance. She said in an interview she feels Rubio will do well in East Tennessee. "A lot of folks are talking about the front runner and (questioning) his values," she said of Trump. Rubio is smart, attractive and can expand the Republican Party, Massey said. "He has the best chance of beating Hillary," she said. Others in the crowd included public strategist Darrell Akins and Councilman Rick Chinn, both of Oak Ridge, who said Rubio had become their choice at the end of the campaign. Akins said originally he was for Carly Fiorina and he thought Rubio would be a good vice presidential candidate for her, or vice versa, he added. "I'm not for Trump," Chinn said. Republican presidential candidate, Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, speaks during a caucus night rally, Monday, Feb. 1, 2016, in Des Moines, Iowa. Cruz sealed a victory in the Republican Iowa caucuses, winning on the strength of his relentless campaigning and support from his party's diehard conservatives.(AP Photo/Chris Carlson) By Michael Collins of the Knoxville News Sentinel WASHINGTON On paper, the idea seemed simple enough. If a group of Southern states held their primaries on the same day and chose a date early in the elections process, they'd get a lot more visibility and possibly more influence in selecting the parties' nominees for president. Some analysts even suggested moving near the front of the voting line might give the region's Republicans the power to pick a conservative nominee, since voters in the South tend to tilt toward the right. Taking part in the so-called "SEC primary" has given Tennessee visibility. All five of the Republicans still in the race have campaigned in the state over the past week. On the Democratic side, front-runner Hillary Clinton held a rally in Nashville on Sunday. But in a bizarre election cycle that has defied conventional wisdom again and again, Tuesday's primaries could produce another head-scratcher. The seven Southern states that will vote on Tuesday could, in fact, help permanently shape the race by solidifying New York real estate mogul Donald Trump's position as the GOP front-runner and seriously wounding, perhaps fatally, the two Southern candidates still standing, U.S. Sens. Marco Rubio of Florida and Ted Cruz of Texas. "These innovations have a way of backfiring," said University of Virginia political scientist Larry Sabato. A Bloomberg Politics poll released last week showed Trump with a sizable lead in the Southern states voting on March 1, or Super Tuesday. Trump was backed by 37 percent of likely Republican voters in the seven states surveyed, while Rubio and Cruz were tied at 20 percent. In all, a dozen states will vote on Tuesday, half of them in the South hence the "SEC primary" title. On the Republican side, 595 delegates will be awarded (1,237 are needed to capture the GOP nomination). For the Democrats, 1,004 delegates are at stake, with 2,382 needed for nomination. Tennessee Republicans will award 58 delegates as the result of Tuesday's elections. If no candidate receives at least 67 percent of the vote, the delegates will be awarded proportionally. Tennessee Democrats will award 44 delegates on a proportional basis. Rubio and Cruz need to win some of the states voting on Tuesday if they are to stand any chance of capturing the nomination, Sabato said. "A bunch of close seconds might make a difference," he said, "but the presidential process does not award silver and bronze medals. It's only gold. I know you can get delegates (without finishing first). But in the end, you actually have to win. Placing second isn't good enough." Trump won three of the four states that already have held Republican primaries or caucuses. "If Trump keeps up his head of steam and there's no guarantee he will he could come out of March 1 with even more momentum," said Haley Barbour, former Mississippi governor and former chairman of the Republican National Committee. Cruz will probably win his home state of Texas, Sabato said, but not by a large enough margin to give him the momentum he will need going forward. Rubio is in an even more precarious position. Polls show him losing to Trump in Florida, his home state. In many ways, Sabato said, Tuesday's primary is reminiscent of the first Super Tuesday election in 1988. At the time, Southern Democrats thought setting their primaries on the same date might give them more influence and could result in the nomination going to a moderate candidate. But a competitive race ended up dashing those hopes. Jesse Jackson won the Deep South, while native son Al Gore carried Tennessee and several other states. Massachusetts Gov. Michael Dukakis, a liberal, ended up winning the nomination. This year, "the two Southerners could end up being hurt by the primary that was designed to help them, just as Al Gore was not propelled to the nomination as the founders of the original Super Tuesday intended," Sabato said. Michael Collins is the News Sentinel's Washington correspondent. His weekly Tennessee in D.C. column highlights Volunteer State lawmakers, causes and connections. Contact him at 202-408-2711 or michael.collins@jmg.com. SHARE At a Feb. 26 campaign rally in Fort Worth, Texas, before an enthusiastic crowd of thousands, Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump made clear once again his disdain for American media, but added for the first time his explicit intent to purposefully erode two pillars of what our Founding Fathers called a great experiment and what we call a great nation freedom of the press and freedom of speech as defined in the First Amendment of the Bill of Rights. For a man known for blustering exaggeration, his remarks were shockingly specific and apparently well thought out. In the reference to the news media, Trump said, "They're going to have such problems." He went on to add, "If I win, I'm going to open up our libel laws so when they write purposefully negative and horrible and false articles, we can sue them and win lots of money. We're going to open up those libel laws so that when the New York Times writes a hit piece, which is a total disgrace, or when the Washington Post, which is there for other reasons, writes a hit piece, we can sue them, and win money instead of having no chance of winning because they're totally protected." For many in the predominantly Republican crowd, weary of the perceived biased of the "liberal media," such a suggestion, such a promise, must have sounded more than refreshing, as was apparent by the uproar of cheers from the crowd. What the crowd did not consider, but what the larger GOP primary electorate must, is that long after the applause fades, two poisonous ambitions will remain. First is Trump's apparent desire to cripple the press's ability to inform the public and thereby hold the government accountable. Second is a clear ambition to achieve this, and any other ends, with utter disregard for the constitutional roles of our three branches of government and the powers afforded to each. The libel laws that Trump wishes to weaken did not arise from a whim of a past Congress that Trump can cut a deal to overturn, nor did they come about by a reversible executive order. Rather, the laws that protect the press from undue political pressure today arose from third branch of government, the judiciary, specifically through the hard-fought battles of litigation between the New York Times and a certain Montgomery, Alabama, public safety commissioner. The New York Times Co. v. Sullivan case took place during a critical juncture of the civil rights movement, when many local and state governments in the South struggled desperately to keep their violently discriminatory yet sanctioned policies out of public view to avoid accountability. While many smaller outlets were bullied into silence through successful libel litigation for daring to bring the truth to light, the New York Times said, "Enough." On March 29, 1960, the newspaper published an advertisement supporting the efforts of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. titled "Heed Their Rising Voices." The ad described flagrant atrocities being committed by Montgomery police. In response, Montgomery Public Safety Commissioner L.B. Sullivan, feeling indirectly disparaged, sued for libel. And so began a series of court cases eventually resulting in a unanimous decision by the U.S. Supreme Court in favor of the New York Times and ultimately the American people. In the words of Justice William Brennan, who wrote the majority opinion, "the First Amendment protects the publication of all statements, even false ones, about the conduct of public officials except when statements are made with actual malice (with knowledge that they are false or proven to be in reckless disregard of the truth or falsity)." Here in this ruling was established the true power of the pen, and with it the power of the people. From shedding light on some of the bloodiest moments of the battle for civil rights, through the tenuous days of the Watergate crisis, the standard of actual malice on the part of the media established by this ruling has ensured that the American public can hold its government accountable and responsible when proven to be in the wrong because the press became free to report without fear of suppressive legal reprisal from angered public officials. At the core of its ruling the court seems to have sought to firmly establish that quintessential truth of our system, that the power of this system rests in the hands of the people and not the government, and that it is the right, even duty, of the press to inform the public so that it may exercise its power wisely, having been informed of the truth, even when that truth is unpleasant for some to hear. One can only assume Sullivan considered reports of the civil rights abuses as "horrible hit pieces," and most certainly President Richard Nixon viewed the Washington Post's Watergate reporting as "purposefully negative." In the America of a President Trump, the newspapers in both cases would be silenced and the American people left in the dark. Much has been said and written both supporting and opposing Trump's self-described "tell-it-like-it-is" attitude. After these latest remarks in Fort Worth, coupled with his continued success in the polls, perhaps the question most in need of debate is instead, will this attitude evolve from "tell-it-like-it-is" machismo on the campaign trail into a "tell-it-like-it-will-be" intent spoken from behind an inaugural podium? Millions of voters across this nation have genuinely found in Trump a solace from their frustrations with the status quo, and an inspiration that promises them the nation they love can stand taller than she does today. We should all bear in mind, however, that frustration with perceived governmental overreach and fear of curbed liberties will not, and cannot, be rectified by voting into office a president who has no respect for the foundational ideals of the very government we cherish. The dreams of this nation standing taller cannot be realized by the erosion of the very foundation on which she stands. As primary voters across Tennessee and other states cast their support for their choice of a nominee for president on Tuesday, we would all be well served to keep foremost in our minds not the last sound bite that we applauded, but the meaning behind each candidate's words. Dean Rice is chief of staff to Knox County Mayor Tim Burchett, an adjunct faculty member with the University of Tennessee's College of Communication and Information and a global security fellow with UT's Institute for Nuclear Security. Natalie Manaeva Rice is a research consultant with UT's Institute for Nuclear Security. George Korda hosting his "State Your Case' radio talk show. (Jack Lail / News Sentinel) Im writing yet another column about the University of Tennessees Office of Diversity and Inclusion because the University of Tennessee wont respond to questions or requests about its Office of Diversity and Inclusion. In Sept. 2015 I wrote about the office after an uproar over a series of curious pronouns recommended or suggested for use on campus for individuals who didnt want to be identified by what was called the gender binary, which means male or female. After a Mt. Everest-sized avalanche of national ridicule, the pronouns were dispatched to the outer darkness amid gnashing of teeth by various UT officials. In an October column I contrasted the Office of Diversity and Inclusions celebratory approach to the opening of a new Pride Center while suggesting that religiously-themed holiday parties were not inclusive. The following is taken from the column, which references a discussion with State Rep. Martin Daniel on my Sunday afternoon radio show on WOKI-FM. Rep. Daniel has been researching the costs of UTs diversity efforts, which are in the neighborhood of $5 million system-wide. While Rep. Daniel and I were speaking and taking calls I had the offices website up on the computer and was reading a section about the offices diversity efforts. One section promotes the Pride Center and its programs, such as, Out@UT; inQUEERies; SexEd Queered; the Ambassador Program, a student leadership initiative for LGBTQIA+ and ally students (Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transsexual, Queer, Intersex, and Asexual); and SpeakOut, which reports its goal is to reach members of the university community in their classroom, office, or residence hall to create dialogue on sexual orientation and gender identity. The Pride Center was formerly named The OUTreach: LGBTQ+ & Ally Resource Center. The name was changed in August. The Diversity and Inclusion office hailed the change in a news release on its website, announcing a grand re-opening on Oct. 6 with an ice cream social. In other words, study it, talk about it, celebrate it. I compared that to what the office said about religiously-themed holiday parties: Holiday parties and celebrations should celebrate and build upon workplace relationships and team morale with no emphasis on religion or culture. Ensure your holiday party is not a Christmas party in disguise. The list of best practices suggestions also said, If sending holiday cards to campus and community partners, send a non-denominational card or token of your gratitude. I wrote, In other words, dont talk about it, and if youre going to celebrate it, keep the reason quiet. If asked, dont tell, dont share, and dont disguise (as if its doing something wrong) festivities as Christmas parties. I contacted the office of the Vice Chancellor for the Office of Diversity and Inclusion to invite him to appear with me on my radio show to discuss the office, its work, and the controversies. Weeks went by before I received a phone call from a university official (not Vice Chancellor Hall; he and I have not spoken) saying the vice chancellor would not appear because I had already made up my mind. Whether that was his decision or someone elses, I dont know. Objecting to this, I pointed out that the column rightly compared the two situations and that as an organization funded in large part by taxpayers there should be no fear or reluctance to have him appear. If I were unfair it would be obvious and would diminish any points I made. The call ended with a promise from the UT official to think about it some more. Apparently, the thinking continues. A few weeks later a national firestorm erupted over the Office of Diversity and Inclusion when U.S. Rep. John Duncan responded to a national media outlets question on the websites Christmas party suggestions. I again contacted UT asking for Vice Chancellor Hall to come on my show. No answer. On Dec. 13, 2015s edition of WATE-TVs Tennessee This Week, UT professor Candace White, a member of the UT faculty senate executive council, was in a discussion on the Office of Diversity and Inclusions budget with host Stephanie Beecken and State Rep. Daniel. Professor White said of the Knoxville campus diversity and inclusion office, If you want to look at the Office of Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Tennessee youre talking about four, maybe $400,000 or a little over, I think its $436,000. Its less than one-quarter of one percent of our budget. Its as Dr. (Joe) DiPietro refers to, budget dust. Dr. DiPietro is UT system president. Watching the conversation (I am a regular panelist on TTW), I wondered about that statement. On one hand, $436,000 is indeed miniscule in comparison to the university systems budget. However, Tennessees median household income according to the U.S. Census Bureau is about $44,000, so it would take 10 years for a typical Tennessee household to gross that much money. I didnt think Dr. DiPietro would say that, or perhaps it was not in context. I reached out to another UT official and asked the question. We exchanged several messages and was told a response would be forthcoming. The last exchange was on Jan. 17. Since then, silence. The University of Tennessee is generally an institution of which to be proud, and essential to the well-being and vibrancy not just of Knoxville, but the entire state. My kids went to UT and are proud of having done so. I have many friends who work on the campus and numerous times Ive been there for events or to speak. Its a great place. However, university shouldnt turn into a slammed-shut clam because it doesnt like certain questions. There are administrative and public relations reasons why a university wants to have a diversity office. Its also possible for it to become the hall monitor of what is, and isnt acceptable speech and thought. If Vice Chancellor Hall had come on my show Im confident he would have explained with ability the function of the office. I dont know him, but I suspect hes a perfectly nice guy and capable of handling himself in a conversation. A person without substance doesnt become a vice chancellor. I think wed have had a good talk. Barring other developments in the news, that probably would have been the end of my interest. Instead, UT has clammed up, and Im writing about it, yet again. George Korda is political analyst for WATE-TV, appearing Sundays on Tennessee This Week. He hosts State Your Case from noon 3 p.m. Sundays on WOKI-FM Newstalk 98.7. Korda is a frequent speaker and writer on political and news media subjects. He is president of Korda Communications, a public relations and communications consulting firm. SHARE A bill that as introduced would ban the use of state gas tax revenues for bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure projects in Tennessee apparently would violate the Americans with Disabilities Act, jeopardizing hundreds of millions of dollars in federal transportation funds. The measure faces key subcommittee votes this week in the Revenue Subcommittee of the Senate Finance Ways and Means Committee on Tuesday and in the House Transportation Subcommittee on Wednesday. While roads and bridges rightly remain the highest priority for infrastructure funding, there is a need for sidewalks and bike paths as well. Bike paths and greenways might seem frivolous to some, but they contribute to the health and well-being of many citizens. Sidewalks provide safety to pedestrians and are vital to those who must use wheelchairs. The bill would restrict gas tax revenues "solely for the construction, improvement, and maintenance of highways, bridges, and other transportation infrastructure that is open to the use of the public for vehicular travel." The measure specifically bans the use of gas tax revenues for pedestrian and bicycle paths, including greenways, and sidewalks. Cities and counties also would be unable to use those dollars as matches to grants. The Tennessee Department of Transportation contends the bill as introduced would violate the Americans with Disabilities Act, primarily because governments are required to put curb cuts into sidewalks and otherwise accommodate people with disabilities. Such a violation puts at risk nearly $875 million in federal transportation money the amount TDOT expects to receive in the upcoming fiscal year. According to TDOT, the agency spends only about $180 million, a mere 1 percent of its revenues, on bicycle and pedestrian projects. An alternative version of the bill that would be less sweeping has been proposed, the Chattanooga Times Free Press has reported, but a new legal analysis and cost estimate would not surface until and unless the bill is formally amended. The city of Knoxville, which has made sidewalk and bike lane improvements a priority under Mayor Madeline Rogero, would be harmed by passage of the bill. For example, a $1 million project to improve pedestrian mobility and bike safety on Kingston Pike is 95 percent funded by a TDOT grant. The state faces a growing backlog of infrastructure projects already and cannot put needed federal dollars at risk. The bill sprang forth from the debate over raising the gas tax to pay for some of the $6.1 billion in deferred projects statewide. The gas tax, which accounts for 21 percent of TDOT's revenues, has not been raised since 1989. Gov. Bill Haslam floated the idea of raising the gas tax before the current session began, but legislators shot it down. Instead of coming up with a long-term solution, lawmakers have been tinkering around the edges with this bill and another that would have established a fee for electric and hybrid vehicles had it not been killed in the Senate Transportation Committee. The Legislature needs to stop frittering away its time and get to the heart of the matter finding revenues to pay for roads, bridges and, yes, the occasional bike path. POSCO Energy CEO Yoon Dong-jun, front row left, poses with Korea Electric Power Corp. (KEPCO) CEO Cho Hwan-eik, second from left, and Abdolreza Zorofchian, chairman of Pars Kohan Diar Parsian Steel (PKP), third from left, after signing a memorandum of understanding at the Korea-Iran Business Forum in Tehran, Monday. Under the agreement, POSCO Energy and KEPCO will operate and manage a power plant and a desalination facility, which will be built by POSCO Engineering & Construction, near POSCO's steel mill in the Chabahar Free Trade-Industrial Zone. / Courtesy of POSCO Energy By Lee Hyo-sik POSCO has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with Iranian steelmaker, Pars Kohan Diar Parsian Steel (PKP), to jointly build a steel mill in the Middle East country incorporating its FINEX technology, the company said Monday. The world's fourth-largest steelmaker said it will cost about $1.6 billion to construct the FINEX plant, capable of producing 1.6 million tons of steel annually, in Iran's Chabahar Free Trade-Industrial Zone (CFZ). POSCO Engineering & Construction (E&C) will build the mill. During the Korea-Iran Business Forum held in Tehran, Monday, POSCO's electricity-generating affiliate POSCO Energy also signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with PKP to construct a 500 megawatt power plant using excess gas generated by the envisioned steel mill. In cooperation with Korea Electric Power Corp. (KEPCO), the company will also construct a desalination facility nearby to desalinize 60,000 tons of seawater every day. "Last September, we signed the MOU with our Iranian counterpart and today's agreement has all but finalized the $1.6 billion project," a POSCO spokesman said. "We will continue to work hard to complete the scheme as scheduled." As soon as the United States and other Western economies lifted sanctions on Iran in January, POSCO moved quickly to get the stalled FINEX plant project back on track. Under the agreement, POSCO will shoulder 8 percent of the investment and transfer its POSCO innovative steelmaking technology (POIST) to its Iranian partner. POIST is a combination of FINEX and compact endless cast and rolling mill (CEM) technologies. PKP will pay for the remaining 92 percent. According to POSCO, FINEX technology allows the direct use of cheap iron ore fines and non-coking coal as feedstock, resulting in significantly lower operating costs and emissions than a blast furnace. "First, we will build the 1.6 million-ton steel mill using FINEX and CEM technologies," the spokesman said. "We will then construct additional facilities to produce 600,000 tons of cold-rolled coils and galvanized steel sheets." In cooperation with KEPCO, POSCO Energy will operate and manage the facilities, which will provide power and fresh water to the FINEX plant. "We believe the planned power plant and desalination facilities will help POSCO operate its first steel mill in Iran," a POSCO Energy spokesman said. "Using them as a springboard, we will seek to secure more business opportunities in Iran and the region." By Nam Hyun-woo Overall business sentiment in manufacturing and services companies has been worsening, with key indicators measuring their outlook falling to the lowest levels in seven years, the Bank of Korea (BOK) said Monday. They painted a bleak outlook due to external negatives, including slowing economic growth in China and other developing countries and unfavorable foreign exchange rates. A BOK poll showed that the overall business survey index (BSI) for manufacturers stood at 63 in February, down 2 points from a month earlier, the lowest level since March 2009 in the wake of the 2008 global financial crisis. A reading below 100 means that companies having a pessimistic view on business outnumber optimistic companies. The index has been falling for four straight months since last October. Manufacturers' outlook for March also remained bleak with 66, the same as forecast for February. This is the lowest since April 2009 when it reached 59. Major Korean exporters, including steelmakers and shipbuilders, are showing no signs of recovery, keeping overall corporate sentiment from posting any meaningful rebound, a BOK official said. Exports dropped 18.5 percent year-on-year to $36.7 billion in January from a year earlier, the biggest drop in six years. With exports falling further in February, outbound shipments are expected to post 14 straight months of decline, the longest-ever streak, according to Statistics Korea. Weakening corporate sentiment amid falling exports is overshadowing the country's economy, making it harder for the government to achieve its growth target of 3 percent this year. Officials from shipbuilders, petrochemical companies and other manufacturers expressed concerns over slowing demand from abroad. An official at Hyundai Heavy Industries said, "Since industry is largely affected by global financial factors, such as falling demand and low oil prices, the outlook for this industry down the road is not as good as it was in the mid-2000s." They picked slow domestic demand as the culprit of their pessimism, as answered by 24 percent of 1,748 manufacturing corporations which answered the survey. Some 23 percent of those surveyed said economic uncertainties worsened their business environment, while 10.1 percent said deteriorating exports was their major problem. Manufacturers focusing on exports were among the most pessimistic for February, with their BSI dropping to 61, a six-point drop from January. "Economic growth in China, Russia and other emerging economies is slowing, while the volatility of the international financial market has expanded," an official at the BOK said. "External uncertainties dampened the business sentiment. Also, geopolitical risks from North Korea's rocket launch and the shutdown of Gaeseong Industrial Complex were attributable to this outcome." A student walks into Hana Academy Seoul in Jingwan-dong, northern Seoul in August 2015. The boarding high school run by Hana Financial Group is in conflict with the education authority over the school's special admission policy. / Korea Times file By Kim Jae-won A boarding high school run by Hana Financial Group is in conflict with the education authority over the school's special admissions policy, accepting 20 percent of its students from families of the group's executives and employees, officials said Monday. The Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education (SMOE) said that it ordered Hana Academy Seoul to stop favoring the nation's largest financial group by assets, but the private school did not listen. "Hana Academy Seoul is not following our guidelines over its admission policy," said Lee Sang-soo, a spokesman for SMOE. "The Seoul Metropolitan Council also asked the school to remove the special quota for the financial group, but Hana refused to do so." SMOE said Hana has suffered a lack of finance because it insisted on maintaining the policy. The financial regulator had banned Hana Financial from donating funds to the school, saying it was against the Banking Law because the group benefits from the donations. Due to the prohibition, Hana stopped its funding to the school in 2013. The group had donated 2 billion won every year to the school since its establishment in 2008. To solve its financial troubles, the school sought to sell part of its assets, but the education office prevented them from doing so, saying it would hurt the school's financial soundness. By law, a private school must get permission from the authorities to sell its assets. Hana Financial said that the group cannot give up its special admissions quota because it is a key measure connecting the firm to the school. "If there is no special admissions quota for the group, then it means there is no connection between the group and the school," said a spokesman for the group. "The education authority should allow the school to use its funds so that students can study without worries." He said that Hana Academy Seoul has enough funds to operate for a few more years because the group set apart sufficient funds when it established a foundation in charge of the school. Former Hana Financial Chairman Kim Seung-yu has chaired the board of the school since its establishment. Representatives of the school were not available for comment. The school has been accredited for the high performances of its students, sending many of its graduates to top-tier universities at home and abroad, but also faced criticism for its unfair admissions policy. Last year, it was in the hot seat over manipulating applicants' scores to accept more male students. The school admitted that it chose male students who had earned lower scores than female students, but said that it was to balance the school's gender ratio. Renault Samsung Motors' electric car SM3 Z.E. / Courtesy of Renault Samsung Motors By Jhoo Dong-chan A series of alleged sudden unintended acceleration (SUA) accidents have been reported involving Renault Samsung Motors' SM3 electric cars on Jeju Island. The automaker is blaming the accidents on drivers' poor driving skills. A 50-year-old surnamed Chung who drove the electric model, SM3 Z.E., crashed at a horseracing track in Haean-dong, central Jeju, Feb. 10. No casualties were reported, but the accident surprised horses and could have hurt a number of visitors. "I was stepping on the brake pedal before I was going to hit a bump in the road. My car then suddenly went backward into the horse park," news agency Yonhap quoted Chung as saying. "My car was not supposed to run backward since the gear shift was in drive." Experiencing a similar incident during the Chuseok holidays, Chung decided to ask the National Forensic Service to investigate the car for possible faults. A 66-year-old Jeju resident surnamed Moon also experienced a similar accident on his way to church in Samdo-dong, central Jeju, early in morning of Dec. 18. Also driving the same model as Chung, Moon's car allegedly accelerated and crashed into a nearby laundry. "I was pulling over in front of the church. But my car suddenly accelerated when I took my foot off the accelerator to slow down," Moon was quoted as saying. "I believe this was a typical SUA case." Moon's accident occurred only nine days after he took delivery of the car. Another SM3 Z.E. driver, also surnamed Moon, 65, claimed that she had an SUA accident at a market in Donam-dong, Jeju, Dec. 3. She told that she pressed her foot down sharply on the brake as the car suddenly darted across the parking lot making a roaring sound but it did no good. A Renault Samsung Motors official, however, said that the three accidents were not SUA accidents considering the speed and all "caused by the drivers' misperceptions or poor driving skills, not by model defects." "In the Haean-dong accident, the driver is believed to have put the gearshift into N, not D. And the car's speed was not even fast enough to be considered an SUA," said Renault Samsung PR team manager Lee Jung-kook. "Plus, the driver's husband surnamed Park also testifies against her claims, questioning what really happened in the accident." Lee also claimed that the Samdo-dong accident does not show any signs of being an SUA. "Electric cars do not make roaring sounds since they have electric motors," Lee said. "The electric data downloaded from the car showed the driver pressed down on the accelerator instead of the brake when making a right turn. Considering he just took delivery of the car, however, the company decided to install a new black box and other safety-related equipment for free." The police concluded through their investigation that the Donam-dong accident was the driver's fault. Police found that she was also pressing down on the accelerator instead of the brake, Lee added. Health and Welfare Minister Chung Chin-youb says Korea and the United States are strengthening partnership in the healthcare sector. / Courtesy of Ministry of Health and Welfare By Chung Chin-youb During the state visit of President Park Geun-hye to the United States, the Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) hosted a signing ceremony for a letter of intent (LOI) on collaborative research in precision medicine and MERS-CoV between the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) and Korea National Institute of Health (KNIH) on Oct. 16 at the Stone House in the U.S. NIH, Bethesda, Md. The LOI was a follow-up measure of the memorandum of understanding (MOU) between The U.S Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the MOHW amended and extended on June 22, to which "precision medicine" and the "Global Health Security Agenda" were added as new areas of bilateral collaboration. In the LOI, both countries agreed to enhance cooperation by exploring funding mechanisms for research activities in the areas of precision medicine, developing vaccines and treatments against emerging infectious diseases including MERS-CoV, promoting personnel exchange and holding a regular joint symposium between the U.S. NIH and three major Korean health R&D institutions comprising the KNIH, Korea Health Industry Development Institute (KHIDI) and National Cancer Center (NCC). The importance of this LOI lies on the fact that it gave both nations an opportunity to reaffirm their shared interest on future public health threats and make commitments to put in concerted efforts to tackle them through collaboration in the future-oriented research areas. Precision medicine is a new concept of healthcare and medical intervention, which was introduced in the State of the Union Address by U.S. President Barack Obama this year, which aims to enhance people's health and establish a sustainable medical system simultaneously. Lee Joo-shil, left, the director-general of the Korea National Institute of Health, and her U.S. counterpart Francis S. Collins sign a letter of intent on collaborative research in precision medicine and MERS-CoV between the two countries on Oct. 16 at Bethesda, Md. / Courtesy of Ministry of Health and Welfare As proposed by the U.S. NIH, a leading institution of U.S. Precision Medicine Initiative, smart healthcare, big data and genomics are merged together in precision medicine to provide customized medical services to patients. This innovative approach is expected to cut medical costs and create new job opportunities. Korea possesses well-established infrastructure for research in precision medicine as can be seen from the example of its resources such as a cohort study on 250,000 people, genomic information of 100,000 Koreans scheduled for completion in 2018 as well as highest level of medical technology and IT infrastructure. Through the LOI, Korea will cooperate closely with the U.S. by utilizing its infrastructure for precision medicine abovementioned and merging them with cutting-edge medical technology of the U.S. In addition, the research collaboration on precision medicine between Korea and the U.S. holds a great significance. It will not only give a chance for Korea to take the lead in Asia's precision medicine industry but also reinforce Korea's partnership with the U.S. as frontrunners of global precision medicine research. Health security is another important field of bilateral cooperation between the U.S. and Korea. At a time when there is increasing awareness among the public for emerging infectious diseases as serious health threats that require global action, the LOI with U.S. NIH will guide Korea toward closer cooperation with the U.S. on the development of treatments and vaccines for MERS-CoV. In order to accelerate collaborative research activities as agreed on the LOI by both sides, the ministry will set up a task force consisting of experts from academia, industry and institutions including the KNIH, KHIDI and NCC to create a follow-up plan for effective research collaboration. Together with the governmental effort, strong support and participation from the public will be needed for the LOI to have a lasting impact. On the other hand, the ministry held a meeting on Oct. 15 with representatives of Korean-American professionals and institutions in health and medical industries currently at the forefront of the efforts to expand the presence of the Korean medical industry in the U.S. which comprises approximately 18,000 Korean-American doctors, 35 hospitals and clinics, and 120 pharmaceutical companies. In this meeting, the ministry introduced its multilateral efforts such as financing and information provision, and public relations to promote the advancement of Korea's health and medical industries in the global market. Representatives of Korean-American medical professionals and institutions asked the Korean government to show unwavering interest and support so that the Korean health and medical industries continue to rapidly expand their global presence by taking advantage of their networks. Participants also requested an immediate enactment of an applicable law to ensure a stable expansion of health and medical business inside and outside Korea. The law regarding the Support of Medical Business Expansion in the Global Market, which is now pending in the National Assembly, would provide governmental support of financing and information to medical institutions preparing to enter overseas markets commensurate with the benefits for small and medium-sized enterprises. The law would also reinforce governmental support for training medical experts. Also, a variety of support projects will be implemented by specialized support organizations, thus enabling systematic support which meets the demand of the private sector. The ministry is fully committed to endeavor that Korea will stand out on the globe for attraction of cross-border patients and expansion of health and medical markets. To this end, the ministry will continue to work to make necessary laws as early as possible. Chung Chin-youb is the minister of health and welfare. Gene-sequencing company leads advances in precision medicine By Jung Min-ho, Kim Eil-chul During his State of the Union address in January, U.S. President Barack Obama called on his nation to conquer cancer. During his speech, Obama mentioned the Precision Medicine Initiative, a research project he launched a year ago in order to revolutionize the modern healthcare system altogether. The United States is not alone in striving for what he described as a medical "moonshot." As the world moves toward the new era of personalized genomic medicine, Macrogen, a Korean company that offers genome sequencing services, is drawing international attention for its huge potential to become a major player. In September last year, U.S. National Institutes of Health Director Francis Collins visited the office of Macrogen Chairman Seo Jeong-sun in Seoul to discuss possible ways to collaborate on the Precision Medicine Initiative. "Thanks to technological advances, treatments will be more tailored to maximize the effect for each patient," Seo, 63, said in an interview. "We are entering a new age of medicine that will bring fundamental changes." Precision medicine refers to the customization of treatment according to a patient's characteristics of the patient's genetic information and other factors that make the patient unique. DNA sequencing is an essential part of precision medicine because an individual's genetic information, such as whether he or she has any genetic mutation or defect, needs to be considered to find the best treatment for the person. Chemotherapy, for example, is not effective for all cancer patients because their genetic makeup influences their response to the treatment. With precision medicine, doctors can, in theory, find out whether the treatment will work for each patient. Macrogen is the world's first firm to sequence more than 30,000 whole human genomes, a laboratory process that determines the complete DNA sequence, Seo said. "This shows the potential we have as a company that collects and manages biological data, which is required to make medical services personalized in the future," he said. It is too early to tell the real value of such data as many companies, including Macrogen itself, are still trying to figure out how human health can benefit from the data. But Seo believes that goal will be achieved in the not-so-distant future. "Revolutions occur when technological advances meet a massive market. Human-genome sequencing is more affordable today than ever before. In 2005, it cost an estimated $2.5 billion. The cost was reduced to just $1,000 in 2014," he said. "This set up a favorable environment for the revolutionary changes because many people can now afford it, just like what happened with computers in the 1980s." With its advanced technologies, Korea could play a leading role in promoting the new approach for disease treatment and prevention, he noted. "The country has, for instance, technologies to record a person's eating and exercise habits. Such information can be collected as data and be used, along with genetic data, for an overall health analysis. This way, an individual can know his or her health risks and can take steps to remain healthy," he said. Moving from the current treatment-focused medicine to a prevention-focused one will be necessary for many developed countries facing increasing healthcare costs for their aging populations, he noted. In fact, according to the state-run Health Insurance Policy Research Institute, medical costs for Koreans 65 and older are expected to reach as much as 337.1 trillion won ($278.8 billion) in 2060, approaching the entire government's budget in 2016. "Concerns about the costs, which are increasingly becoming unbearable for many countries including the United States, are pushing them to shift their focus to prevention," Seo said. He said Macrogen has already collected about 13 petabytes of genome information. "I think Macrogen will eventually evolve from being a sequencing service provider to something more like a global data powerhouse, and in its course, the company may end up competing with Google," he added. Asian Genome Project Sequencing a genome is one thing, but understanding it and using it is quite another. Macrogen's next step is taking its technologies out into the real world by helping to improve the health of the 4.5 billion Asians in the world. In cooperation with researchers in each Asian nation, the company plans to build databases for the genes of the nation's population. By doing so, Macrogen can try to develop a comprehensive gene analysis to find the diseases the people in each country are particularly vulnerable to. Given that those who are living in the same country share genetic and environmental backgrounds, such as ethnicity, climate and food, Seo believes gene databases will be useful resources for understanding many things about their health. "Through the project, Korea can realize its founding value humanitarianism. This will be the meaningful beginning of precision medicine," Seo said. In cooperation with Kyoto University, the company already started a Japanese gene analysis project. After completing the project, they want to develop the targeted gene therapy and medications for the health problems that many Japanese have. Macrogen is also in collaboration with various universities and institutes in other countries, including China and Mongolia, Seo said. "Our short-term goal is to sequence 10,000 whole human genomes in Asia and we will continue to go further," he said. "Too many people suffer from diseases and live with inconveniences and fears. Ultimately, I want everyone to have a long healthy life and make the best use of it. That would make our work very meaningful." Korea's first public biotechnology company From the moment he got into Seoul National University College of Medicine in 1970, Seo never doubted his future as a physician-scientist. "I was born into a family of physicians and other health workers, so having such a dream was natural to me. My initial plan was to become a cancer researcher," he said. "I thought I did not have an entrepreneur gene.'" But his curiosity about the field of genetics led him to an unexpected path. After graduating from medical school, Seo began his own gene study with mice. In 1984, along with other researchers, he set up a private biotechnology company, NUDON, in the United States. The company closed four years later, but he continued the research, which caught the attention of some major Korean firms that were looking for new growth engines as well as that of the government. They recognized the potential value of what he was doing and offered to fund his research. In 1997, Seo established Macrogen, which was listed on the KOSDAQ market to become the nation's first public biotechnology company in 2000. Since then, Macrogen has grown steadily: its sales and profits last year reached 79.3 billion won ($6.5 million) and 4.9 billion won, respectively. He believes these figures will exceed 100 billion won and 12 billion won, respectively, by 2017. "One of the most valuable things about Macrogen is that it creates its own market," he said. "I think the company has not seen its best days yet." His dream of publishing papers in the world's renowned scientific journals also came true in a surprising way, thanks to Macrogen. In the course of the Asian Genome Project, Seo made breakthroughs on various genomics challenges, such as the sequencing of the first Korean genome in 2009 and the discovery of the Asian copy number variations in 2010. The findings were published in Nature and Nature Genetics, respectively. "Choosing Macrogen over my initial dream of becoming a physician-scientist was tough," he said. "But later, the company gave me what I gave up in a way that I had never expected. Life is so unpredictable, isn't it?" A weeping woman shows a picture of her late son at a press conference in front of the Ministry of National Defense building in Yongsan, Seoul, Aug. 6. She and other bereaved families called on the ministry to help restore the honor of soldiers who died from hazing while serving their mandatory military service. / Yonhap Activists urge military to uphold human rights By Park Ji-won, Chung Hyun-chae, Nam Hyun-woo Koreans are outraged over the death of an Army private first class, surnamed Yoon, who suffered brutal abuse and violence at the hands of his superiors. Yoon, who belonged to the Army's 28th Division, was brutally beaten by five senior soldiers, then put on an IV drip to recover only to be beaten again and endure more torture before his death in April. Ranking military officials and politicians have vowed to uphold soldiers' rights and prevent future tragedies by establishing a human rights council within the armed forces. For some men who have already completed their mandatory military service, however, Yoon's story came as no surprise. They have experienced, witnessed, or at least heard of similar cases. An office worker in Seoul, surnamed Lee, 32, finished his military service in 2007. His superiors subjected him to abuse too, he recalls. "I still don't understand why I was beaten," he said. Lee, then a private, was responsible for managing an ammunition depot. He worked with a sergeant, who was younger than him and constantly picked fights to remind Lee of his inferior rank. "I'm younger than you," the sergeant repeatedly pointed out to Lee. "Is that a problem for you?" The sergeant often kicked Lee in the stomach and punched him in the neck when they were alone in the depot. "I never said anything about his age, but he picked fights with me and repeatedly attacked me," Lee said. Lee required medical treatment for his injuries, but the sergeant bullied him into remaining silent about how he got his bruises and why he was bleeding. The assaults continued until the sergeant was discharged. "If I ever met him again, I would definitely have him killed," Lee said. A soldier holds a rifle while attending a special lecture on human rights at an Army camp in Goyang, northwest of Seoul, Aug. 8. All soldiers are required to attend such lectures amid mounting criticism over hazing in the barracks following the death of an army private first class, surnamed Yoon, who suffered from brutal abuse from his colleagues. / Yonhap "I still suffer trauma, but there is no one I can complain to about this and get redress," he added. "The government should also come up with measures to help victims like me." Kim, 28, who was discharged from the Army two years ago, said he had witnessed hazing. "Many say there is no violence in the military anymore, but I don't believe that," Kim said. "Some people are slow to understand or do something. And one of my colleagues was like that. Superiors always used foul language when talking to him, and often they even cursed his parents and attacked him." The victim was bullied for absurd reasons, Kim recalls. "Verbal abuse and assaults happened because the victim did not follow stupid customs, which obviously had nothing to do with improving combat readiness," he said. For example, Kim said his colleague was forced to lick shoe polish because his boots were not shiny enough. Another colleague reported the violence to a ranking officer, and the victim was transferred to another barracks. The attackers were sent to the guardhouse. "It was a rare case, given that other units' officers tend to cover things up to evade close investigation, because officers don't want a mess," he said. "I heard from one of my friends that his colleague committed suicide because of hazing, but the death was recorded as an accident." Kim declined to elaborate. An office worker, surnamed Gil, 28, said one of his colleagues served time in the guardhouse for beating an underling. "While on night duty, he ordered a private first class not to move off a small tile on the floor. A single move outside of the tile's borders would be followed by assaults," Gil recalled. Noh, 24, a college senior who completed his service last year, witnessed sexual violence. The victim was a private first class and the perpetrator was a corporal. "The private first class reported the corporal's deed to the authorities, and the offender was given a military prison term and transferred to a different unit," he said. These stories are a source of anxiety for young men who still face conscription, and for their parents. College student Oh, 21, finished his four weeks of basic military training on Aug. 1. Now he works at a food company as part of an alternative civilian service program. Though he braved the training without any problem, his parents were not as brave. "Even though the training lasted only a month, I couldn't help worrying about my son," said his mother, surnamed Yoo. "Who knows if something bad will happen within that short time? "In the photo my son sent, some of his colleagues had tattoos on their arms. After I saw that, I started to worry. What if they bully my son?" she said. "Other parents [whose sons don't qualify for alternative programs] must have bigger worries, but I also worry about my son's safety." According to data from the Ministry of National Defense, between 2003 and last year, 874 servicemen died either as a result of suicide or accidents. An average of 80 men died every year. Human rights activists have long urged the government to take action on violence and bullying in the military. But the response remains tepid, consisting only of vague orders. In 2012, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) suggested guidelines to safeguard servicemen's human rights. Those were the strongest measures the agency believed it was capable of taking, but apparently they were insufficient. The NHRC's role is limited it can only make suggestions, not binding regulations. However, critics say the watchdog should have been more active in carrying out its duties at the very least, it could have disclosed problems to the public. It was the Center for Military Human Rights that revealed the details of Yoon's case to the media. "We have repeatedly urged the military to open itself to the public, allowing civilian human rights experts to visit the barracks and meet with soldiers," said Lim Tae-hoon, a representative of the center. "However, the military kept saying no to civilian experts that it would handle intra-military matters by itself." A woman pushes a stroller away from a cafe after being asked to leave. More restaurants and cafes are refusing patrons with children for etiquette and safety reasons. / Korea Times file Restaurants' ban on children stirs pro-and-con debate By Baek Byung-yeul, Kwon Ji-youn A local court recently ruled that two restaurants should pay 10 million won and 47 million won to two children, respectively, who were scalded while dining. One child ran into a restaurant employee carrying hot water and another was burned by charcoal fire. Once the verdict was announced, some restaurant owners started to refuse customers with children as they didn't want to be held responsible for any accidents their child could cause. This issue has emerged as a hotbed for online debate ever since. Korea isn't the first to join the movement. In two U.S. states, Texas and Pennsylvania, restaurants have banned kids, while cafes in Berlin have created child-free zones for their patrons. Some have even barred strollers, which are considered safety hazards in densely populated areas such as malls or restaurants. Even some airlines are following suit. Malaysia Air banned children under two from flying first class, while AsiaAir created a "quiet zone" for fliers above the age of 12. Restaurant owners blame children for reckless behaviors in a potentially dangerous environment involving fire and other cooking equipment, as well as disturbing other patrons' dining experience. The question is this: Do parents have the right to bring their children to cafes and restaurants, where they are at risk of getting burned, where they may be bothersome to fellow patrons? Or do restaurants have the right to refuse patrons with children for safety and etiquette reasons? Many parents with children protested, saying that this is a violation of equal rights. Choi Jung-soon, who raised two children, aged six and eight, said this is a clear example of an equal rights violation. "My kids have the right to enter any cafe or restaurant," the 33-year-old Seoulite said. A sign posted on the door of a restaurant located in Seongnam City, Gyeonggi Province, bars children who are elementary-school age or younger. / Korea Times "People who say parents bringing their toddlers to restaurants do not discipline children inside and let their kids run loose, but this is completely wrong. "I definitely do try to pay attention to my kids, making sure they don't go on a rampage inside a restaurant, but they should understand that kids aren't able to completely control themselves," she said. Heo Eun-mi, a 32-year-old mom, hadn't heard about the movement to ban kids until recently. "When I heard that a group of restaurants were banning kids, I thought to myself, no way,' because my kid loves to eat out" she said. "Before such a policy takes effect across the city, restaurants should designate child-friendly zones, where families with children can dine free from the glares of childless patrons and the narrow confines of a restaurant." She stressed that this should be the first step restaurant owners take before implementing a no kids' policy. "Then, at least they've made an effort to satisfy all customers. We're customers, too," she said. "If that still didn't work, then sure, ban kids. Also, where else will kids learn proper restaurant etiquette?" She emphasized that with a little caution, restaurant owners and parents will definitely be able to find a way to coexist. "I think the responsibility falls with both parties. Parents should be a little more attentive, and restaurant employees should be a little more careful," she said. "That's as simple as it gets." Another mother, with a seven-year-old daughter, said she had to order take-out at a coffee shop because her daughter wasn't allowed in, but she didn't mind. "When I saw the news, the first thought that came to my mind was, aren't the parents responsible for the safety of their children?'" she said on condition of anonymity. "How are restaurant owners supposed to control children while working?" Jeong Soon-ok, a college student, does admit that her experience at a restaurant in Sinsa-dong, southern Seoul, wasn't all that enjoyable because of a child who walked from table to table stealing peoples' salt and pepper shakers. "At first it was cute, but when the meals were served, we needed the salt shaker. So we took it from him and he just fell on his bottom and started screaming," she said. "The mother then came and started telling us off for forcibly taking the child's toy' away. I didn't know what to say in response." Jeong recalled another incident in where a child slipped while running in a dining room. "I remember the mother started yelling at the employees for wiping the floor down with a wet mop," she said. "I thought to myself, should they have used a dry mop?'" Ryu Seung-min, who runs a Korean-style barbeque restaurant in Seoul, agrees with ban, adding that "parents sometimes just cannot control their children." "I don't implement that kind of policy in my restaurant as my customers are mostly office workers, but I definitely agree with the food establishments that do ban kids," said the restaurant owner. "I think parents who bring their children to restaurants and don't pay attention to them seem to not understand how dangerous this place actually is. They should know that we are dealing with hot food that could burn someone if dropped. "In addition, parents who don't even try to control their careless kids are unaware they are disturbing those around them. They may have gotten used to their loud kids but this doesn't apply to the customers around them," he said. Ryu also pointed out the necessity of campaigns urging parents to better observe public etiquette while in restaurants. "I guess we need to find common ground between owners and parents. I think educating parents the virtue of paying more attention to their kids while dining is a good, first step," he said. The National Human Rights Commission of Korea (NHRC) states that it is illegal for a business to ban children from entering restaurants, adding that it is against the rights of equality. However, this presents a catch-22. If restaurants ban children, then these establishments are breaking the existing laws. But if a restaurant has put forth clear grounds as to why it restricts access to kids, then there is no way to impose sanctions on the offending restaurant. To illustrate this point, NHRC dismissed a case in 2010 filed by an anonymous informant that a restaurant implements a "no kids" policy in their judgment that the restaurant had clear reason to do so. "As long as we, restaurant owners, are responsible for any accidents involving children, it is crystal-clear that more and more restaurants and cafes will adopt the no kids' policy," Ryu added. The number of college graduates outside the labor force has more than doubled over the past 15 years due to a rise in those who gave up looking for jobs amid a prolonged economic slump, government data showed Monday. South Korean college graduates who are neither employed nor unemployed reached 3.35 million in 2015, compared with 1.59 million in 2000, according to the data by Statistic Korea. From a year earlier, the number rose 4.7 percent. "Companies recruit fewer workers due to lower global demand and deteriorating business environments. College graduates find it increasingly difficult to get the job they hoped for in terms of salary and welfare benefits," said Statistics Korea spokesman Sohn Young-tae. "As a result, some of them have stopped seeking a job or gone to private educational institutes to be better qualified for the job they want." Meanwhile, the number of jobless people with a college diploma has been on the rise since 2012. The jobless rate among them stood at 3.6 percent last year, the highest in 13 years since 2002 when the rate was at 3.7 percent. "In short, one in five economically inactive people of 16 million was a college graduate last year," the spokesman said. (Yonhap) By Choi Sung-jin "Kim Jong-un is candid and open-minded, disclosing his thoughts and emotions as they are. Grown up as the son of the leader with absolute power, he is very self-centered and arrogant, too." This is the conclusion of a recent report, which compared the North Korean leader with his father, Kim Jong-il. According to the report, the junior Kim is the aggregation of antinomy or self-contradiction. For example, he pushes for unprecedented economic reform but pursues nuclear programs that hinder the former. Kim also encourages the military to prepare for war but purges and executes key military leaders, it says, noting that he is quite different from his more predictable father. Ewha Womans University's Institute for Unification Studies compiled the report at the request of the Unification Ministry. The report says the late Kim Jong-il had been a bookworm since childhood, showed excellent leadership, and contributed to the community. The senior Kim managed the regime stably throughout the 20 years of his rule through conservative personnel management that made few enemies. The junior Kim, on the other hand, grew up isolated from the rest of North Korean society. While studying in Switzerland, Kim Jong-un might have thought about his country but inherited the governance rather abruptly without opportunities to make a contribution to his country, the report adds. Such different upbringings have resulted in considerable differences between the two men. The father was more like an artist while the son is nearer to a sportsman, or soldier, it says. "This notwithstanding, the incumbent Kim will have no other choice but to improve relationships with the outside world, beginning with China, on the precondition of possessing nuclear weapons," the report says. "The South Korean government should not overlook such a situation and cope with developments more effectively to keep military tension from rising further." By Chung Ah-young The number of people having university degree or higher but who are not seeking jobs has more than doubled over 15 years, data showed Monday. According to Statistics Korea, the number of those with college diplomas or higher degrees who are economically inactive soared to 3.34 million last year, a 4.7 percent increase from 2014. The economically inactive population refers to people aged 15 and older who are neither employed nor looking for jobs. Last year's figure has more than doubled from the 1.59 million in 2010, as more college graduates have given up searching for jobs amid the prolonged economic slump. The number of economically inactive college graduates has been rising steadily to 2.07 million in 2004, 3.07 million in 2013 and 3.34 million last year. "An increasing number of college students are giving up looking for work after experiencing the tight job market. Some of them opt to study at private institutes to seek better chances for getting a job," an official at Statistics Korea said. The data noted that the number of economically inactive people with elementary, middle and high school diplomas has slightly dwindled over the last two years. This pushed up the ratio of the highly educated among the total economically inactive population of the total 16 million economically inactive people last year, they took up 20.8 percent, a 9.5 percentage point increase from 11.3 percent in 2000. In detail, more people with four-year university degrees became economically inactive than two-year college graduates. "It is mainly because the disparity between the jobs the four-year university graduates can land and the jobs they want has widened," the official said. In the meantime, the number of unemployed college graduates meaning those who do seek jobs actively but are registered as unemployed reached 425,000 last year, a 5.5 percent rise from a year ago. The unemployment rate of those with college diplomas or higher degrees was 3.6 percent in 2015, the second all-time high since 3.7 percent in 2002. Ha Chang-woo, left, president of the Korean Bar Association (KBA), salutes the national flag with other association members during the association's general assembly at the Palace Seoul Hotel, Monday. The KBA has caused a stir after issuing an opinion in support of the anti-terrorism bill. / Yonhap By Kim Se-jeong Lawyers' groups are raising their voices over the government's proposed anti-terrorism bill. While the Korean Bar Association (KBA) expressed its support for the bill aiming to expand state surveillance on citizens, many human rights lawyers opposed it and criticized the association's move. In a letter sent to the National Assembly last week, KBA President Ha Chang-woo wrote that the association was in favor of the bill, which "is expected to protect the lives of Korean citizens and to enhance national security and public safety." Ha said the bill has clauses to minimize infringements on individual privacy. The letter was sent as the opposition parties started their filibuster speeches to block the plenary vote on the bill. But, Ha and only a small number of leaders of the association drew up the letter without informing its 20,000 members. The letter came to light after a ruling Saenuri Party member mentioned it in public to garner support for the bill. It is alleged that the KBA sent the opinion at the request of the party. Many lawyers, especially liberal ones, criticized the association's leadership for not communicating with its members in advance. Immediately after the letter was made public, 52 human rights lawyers said in a statement, "President Ha did not go through the internal procedures necessary before making public such a letter of opinion on behalf of the association." They said the KBA is supposed to be politically neutral but that the leadership failed to maintain that stance. "The KBA has made a critical mistake. It should state that the letter was not official and the leadership should apologize." The Seoul Bar Association, whose members make up more than half of the KBA's membership, expressed an opinion opposite to that of the KBA's, saying the bill will seriously infringe on the basic rights of the people guaranteed by the Constitution. "If the bill is passed, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) will have extralegal rights to collect intelligence," it said. "The NIS is likely to infringe on people's privacy and freedom of expression, and there will be no effective measures to control the NIS." One of the KBA's permanent board members in charge of human rights quit after the news of the letter came out, saying he had not heard about the letter before it was made public. The People's Party spokesman Chang Jin-young, a former KBA spokesman, said, "According to the KBA's regulations, an official opinion should be drawn up through discussions in permanent committees and regional branches. Ha should explain why he and only a handful of leaders needed to make the decision swiftly and secretly." But Ha said the leaders had held discussions prior to sending the letter. During a regular general meeting in Seoul, Monday, Ha said he expressed regret over the dispute. "But I firmly say that the KBA will stay politically neutral," he said in a speech. "I'll pay closer attention to how to deliver the association's opinions." Lawyers for a Democratic Society also criticized the KBA for failing to keep its neutrality. On the contrary, four conservative lawyers' groups supported the KBA's letter, saying the association delivered objective opinions about the anti-terrorism bill. The bill, if enforced, will allow the NIS the power to look into suspected terrorists' e-mail accounts, text messages and bank transactions without permission. Opponents argue the bill would give the NIS too much power. By Kang Seung-woo Kim Hong-kyun Deputy Foreign Minister Kim Hong-kyun has been appointed as South Korea's top nuclear envoy, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced, Monday. Hwang Joon-kook, Kim's predecessor, will become Korea's ambassador to the United Kingdom. The ministry said that the United Nations (U.N.) Security Council's new resolution in response to North Korea's recent nuclear test and rocket launch is nearing the end, so it carried out the reshuffle. Kim, who joined the foreign ministry in 1984, has worked in various appointments within it, including the director of the North America Division 2 under North American Affairs Bureau and the senior coordinator for ROK-U.S Security Cooperation Division. From 2009 to 2012, he served as the director-general for the Korean Peninsula Peace Regime Bureau under the Office of Korean Peninsula Peace and Security Affairs, dealing with the North's torpedoing of the naval ship Cheonan and shelling of Yeonpyeong Island in 2010. He also worked for the presidential transition committee in 2013 before serving as the secretary for policy coordination at the National Security Office in 2014. Hwang's appointment is drawing attention because the top nuclear envoy has been replaced amid growing tensions on the Korean Peninsula in the wake of Pyongyang's recent provocations. However, the ministry stressed that there will be no trouble in terms of task continuity. "Kim has handled similar jobs, so he will have no difficulty in doing the new duty," the ministry said. In addition, since the former Ambassador to United Kingdom Lim Sung-nam moved to the first vice foreign minister in October last year, there has been a vacancy in the post, according to the ministry. By Kang Seung-woo Saenuri Party Chairman Rep. Kim Moo-sung apologized Monday for a controversy triggered by his private talks with a ruling party lawmaker about the April 13 general election. On Saturday, Rep. Chung Doo-un claimed that he heard from Kim that there was a secret list of some 40 incumbent Saenuri Party lawmakers who will not be given tickets to run in the election. The claim re-ignited a factional strife between Assemblymen loyal to President Park Geun-hye and non-mainstreamers led by Kim. The list reportedly included non-mainstream lawmakers such as Yoo Seong-min, Lee Jae-oh and Chung as well as some Park loyalists. As the controversy deepened, Kim denied Chung's claims, Monday, saying there was a misunderstanding between them. "I just talked about a rumor about who may not receive party tickets. Such a list does not exist," Kim said. "As the party chairman, I sincerely apologize for worrying the people and party members." The apology came after the party's decision-making Supreme Council convened a meeting to look into Chung's claims and demand explanations from Kim. Earlier in the day, Kim denied the existence of such a list during a party meeting, saying that he did not know about any list related to the nomination. But a group of lawmakers loyal to President Park stepped up a political offensive against Kim, who has been at odds with them. After the meeting, the Supreme Council reached the conclusion that the list does not exist. However, it noted that it was not appropriate for the party chairman to refer to an unconfirmed rumor about the sensitive nomination issue, and had Kim deliver an apology. Rep. Suh Chung-won, a leading figure from the pro-Park faction, suggested that the party form a special committee to investigate the case during the meeting, but Rep. Kim Eul-dong opposed it, saying that the party should not be affected by a false rumor. Following Chung's claims, the pro-Park faction claimed that Kim was attempting to weaken the candidate nomination committee led by Rep. Lee Hahn-koo, a pro-Park lawmaker, by spreading the false rumor about the list, calling for his apology. However, non-mainstreamers said that Park's supporters were politically exploiting the issue for their benefit. By Jun Ji-hye The militaries of South Korea and the United States are under increasing pressure to further delay their working-level talks on the deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery here. U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) Commander Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti said last week that such a discussion was expected to take place "within a week," which was echoed by South Korean military officials. However, the governments of South Korea and the U.S. are apparently shifting their stance on the deployment after China agreed to new U.N. sanctions against North Korea. Since Seoul and Washington first announced their plan earlier this month to discuss the deployment of the battery on the Korean Peninsula, they said they would begin their working-level talks and make a decision at the earliest possible date. The Ministry of National Defense spokesman Moon Sang-gyun said Monday that communication between the U.S. government and the USFK is still ongoing, referring to a possible reason for the working-level talks being delayed. "Once such communication is wrapped up, allies will sign terms of reference of their Joint Working Group (JWG) and hold their first meeting as soon as possible," Moon said at a regular briefing. The JWG is tasked with ironing out details of the deployment including a location. On Feb. 23, Moon said the first meeting of the JWG could take place this week. And the next day, USFK Gen. Scaparrotti also told the House Armed Services Committee that the allies are expected to hold the first meeting within a week. The explanation comes amid growing speculation that Washington could hold off, or possibly withdraw, its plan to deploy its advanced missile defense system here after China agreed last week with a new U.N. resolution that contains tougher sanctions in response to Pyongyang's recent provocative actions the fourth nuclear test conducted on Jan. 6 and a long-range rocket launch on Feb. 7. Given that China, the North's closest ally, had been reluctant to impose harsher sanctions against the North, the possibility was raised that the U.S. intended to use the THAAD issue as leverage for negotiations with China, apparently keeping in mind that Beijing is opposed to deployment of the battery on the peninsula. Spokesman Moon, however, made it clear that Washington's position, that the deployment of THAAD is necessary on Korean soil to better deter North Korean nuclear and missile threats, will not be changed, considering that the U.S. asked for the deployment in the first place. "The U.S. raised the necessity to deploy THAAD and asked for the deployment, and Korea also recognized the need for deployment," he said, adding that consultation between allies to draw up terms of reference of the JWG is ongoing in this context. However, it still remains to be seen whether allies can actually begin their working-level discussions this week, as Washington's position regarding the deployment has been changing noticeably, whether or not the ministry is willing to acknowledge it. The U.S. first said THAAD was surely necessary, but then the working-level talks were delayed for a few days. It then stated that, "The THAAD talks don't necessarily mean deployment." U.S. Pacific Commander Adm. Harry B. Harris Jr. said at a Pentagon briefing Thursday that neither South Korea nor the U.S. has agreed to put a THAAD battery in Korea, noting that, "The decision to discuss it is not necessarily a decision to do it, not yet. So, we're having the discussions now, and we'll see how they turn out." A ministry official said on condition of anonymity that the ministry is carefully monitoring the situation. Follow Jun Ji-hye on Twitter @TheKopJihye A senior presidential official met with China's top nuclear envoy on Monday, an official said, the latest in a series of consultations between the neighbors over looming U.N. sanctions on North Korea. Cho Tae-yong, deputy chief of South Korea's presidential national security office, held talks with Wu Dawei at Cheong Wa Dae, South Korea's presidential office, presidential spokesman Jeong Yeon-guk said, without elaborating. The meeting came days after U.S. envoy to the U.N. Samantha Power unveiled key points of a draft sanctions resolution to punish North Korea for conducting a fourth nuclear test and launching a long-range rocket in recent weeks. The new sanctions would require mandatory inspection of all cargo going in and out of North Korea, ban its exports of coal, iron and other mineral resources, a key source of hard currency for Pyongyang, and prohibit all small arms and other conventional weapons from being sold to the North. Wu arrived in Seoul on Sunday and met with his South Korean counterpart Hwang Joon-kook. Wu said after the meeting that Seoul and Beijing agreed to support the U.N. Security Council's adoption of a new resolution in response to the North's nuclear test and rocket launch. The Chinese envoy is also setto meet with South Korea's Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se later in the day. China is one of the five permanent veto-wielding members of the Security Council and is believed to have significant leverage over Pyongyang as China is North Korea's most important trading partner and a key source of food and fuel. (Yonhap) China's chief nuclear envoy, Wu Dawei, has voiced the country's opposition to the possible deployment of an advanced U.S. missile defense system in South Korea during his meetings with Seoul officials, China's foreign ministry said Monday. Wu, who arrive in South Korea on Sunday, expressed his "solemn position" on the possible deployment of the U.S. missile shield, the Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery, in South Korea, China's foreign ministry spokesman Hong Lei told reporters. South Korea decided to start formal talks with the U.S. to adopt the THAAD battery in the wake of North Korea's fourth nuclear test and rocket launch this year. For South Korea, the decision to adopt the U.S. missile system was based on its national security interests to enhance its defensive posture against North Korea's advances in its nuclear and missile programs. China has voiced opposition to the possible deploymentof the THAAD battery in South Korea, claiming that it would undermine its own security interests. South Korea has dismissed China's concerns. (Yonhap) Activists stage a rally in front of the Cheongun-dong district office, close to Cheong Wa Dae, on Feb. 11, calling on South Korea and the United States to halt discussions on deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense battery on the Korean Peninsula. / Korea Times photo by Shin Sang-soon By Jun Ji-hye With the militaries of South Korea and the United States preparing working-level talks on the deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) battery here, it is highly likely to become a major issue in the scheduled April 13 general election. Military officials say the advanced missile defense system is necessary to detect and destroy North Korean missiles amid growing signs that the country has upgraded its nuclear capabilities. However, residents living in the candidate sites for the THAAD battery strongly oppose it because of, among other things, possible health and safety risks due to electromagnetic waves emitted by the AN/TPY-2 radar. Residents also cite the potential negative impact on the local real estate market caused by the deployment because it is highly likely for the nearby area of the site to be designated as a limited development district, just as other areas near U.S. bases have been designated. From left are Reps. Joo Ho-young, Won Yoo-chul and Lee Kang-hoo of the ruling Saenuri Party whose constituencies are Daegu, Pyeongtaek and Wonju, respectively, which have been cited as possible sites for the deployment of a Terminal High Altitude Area Defense battery. Residents living in these areas strongly oppose the deployment due to possible health and safety risks and other negative impacts. The allies first announced their decision to officially discuss the THAAD deployment on Feb. 7, hours after North Korea launched a long-range rocket, which followed its fourth nuclear test on Jan. 6, both in violation of U.N. resolutions. Since then, about five candidate locations for a THAAD battery have been mentioned by the news media based on such factors as the current locations of U.S. bases, the distance from the North's missile units and from China. The China factor has to be considered as the country has long been opposed to the deployment of a THAAD battery on the peninsula, out of concerns that its radar could be used to spy on Beijing's military activities and that the deployment would expand American influence within Northeast Asia Candidate locations being mentioned are Pyeongtaek in Gyeonggi Province; Daegu; Waegwan in North Gyeongsang Province; Wonju in Gangwon Province; and Gunsan in North Jeolla Province. Among them, the U.S. Forces Korea's (USFK) Camp Humphreys is located at Pyeongtaek, Camp Walker in Daegu, Camp Carroll at Waegwan and the U.S. air base in Gunsan. Wonju hosted Camp Long until 2010. Although an official government announcement regarding the location has yet to be made, residents living in the areas as well as lawmakers who represent them and municipal authorities there are already expressing their opposition to the deployment. Some observers refer to the opposition and resistance of residents and politicians as "NIMBYism," or not-in-my-backyard syndrome, just as seen in the previous cases of the construction of nuclear waste storage facilities and naval bases. What is ironic is that most candidate areas for a THAAD battery are the constituencies of the ruling Saenuri Party lawmakers, who, as conservatives, usually lay stress on measures to strengthen national security _ it is generally believed that issues involving national security are a good tool for conservatives to win the hearts and minds of voters. Rep. Won Yoo-chul who represents Pyeongtaek, Reps. Joo Ho-young and Yoo Seong-min, who represent districts in Daegu and Rep. Lee Kang-hoo who sits for Wonju have all been advocates for THAAD deployment since the Commander of the USFK and United Nations Command Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti first raised the possibility in June 2014. Such conservative lawmakers have said that the system would help enhance the nation's capability of better deterring nuclear and missile threats from the North. But, since the two governments made it official to discuss the THAAD deployment, and their constituencies have been cited as possible locations for the system, the lawmakers have appeared to pull back. Still acknowledging the need for the deployment, the lawmakers now say that their constituencies are not suitable locations for hosting the system. Rep. Joo of Daegu said, "Daegu is too far away from Seoul," noting that a THAAD battery in his city will not be effective in protecting the capital area. He also said, "It is too hasty to mention a certain region at a time when the working-level discussions between the two countries have yet to begin." Rep. Won of Pyeongtaek took exactly the same stance, saying, "I do not understand why Pyeongtaek is being talked about now," adding that mentioning his constituency at this stage will only cause unnecessary controversy. Rep. Lee of Wonju also said, "THAAD is surly necessary to protect the people's lives and properties, but Wonju is not an optimal place for the system, given that the area would not meet the basic conditions for deployment." Such an illogical stance of the lawmakers, that the THAAD is necessary but it should not be deployed in their constituencies, apparently comes as the general election is less than two months away. Critics say the lawmakers might have no choice but to oppose the deployment as the issue is threatening their chances of election. Kim Jong-dae, a military commentator who is in charge of defense reform in the minor opposition Justice Party, said, "If the lawmakers have called for bringing the THAAD to the peninsula to truly enhance national security, they will have to express a position that they can accept the deployment in their constituencies, and that they will bet their political careers to persuade residents. Only by doing this, can the sincerity of their previous calls for THAAD not be suspected." The lawmakers' reluctance to host THAAD in their constituencies is also expected to cause internal conflict within the governing party ahead of the general election as its leadership including Chairman Kim Moo-sung is sticking to a position that the nation needs it. Rep. Kim earlier said, "THAAD is a defensive weapon system to protect us from the North's attack. I cannot understand those who are opposed to it." A recent atmosphere that the U.S. could possibly hold off _ or reverse _ its decision to deploy THAAD on the peninsula following its agreement with China on a draft U.N. resolution for sanctions against the North is not helping tone down the resistance of residents and politicians, at least not yet. The Washington-Beijing agreement Wednesday raises speculation that the two powers made a "big deal" as Beijing is believed to have demanded that Washington withdraw its THAAD deployment plan in return for Beijing's cooperation on producing a meaningful U.N. resolution. But on same day, the USFK Commander Gen. Curtis Scaparrotti told the House Armed Services Committee that the allies are expected to hold the first meeting of their joint working-level group regarding the THAAD deployment "within a week." Wonju Mayor Won Chang-muk said, "I will cast myself with the citizens of Wonju to ensure that THAAD is not deployed in this city," saying that deploying the system in his city would be a "severe" decision. Because of the sensibilities of the issue, some analysts say any decision on THAAD will not be announced until the general election is over. Shin Yul, a professor of political science at Myongji University, said it is not proper for a matter related to national security to emerge as a major issue for the elections. "I think whether and where to deploy a THAAD battery should not be decided before the election." For its part, the Ministry of National Defense said, "The allies will choose an optimal location from which the military can shoot down North Korean missiles after considering all related matters." The ministry also said, "Whether to host a THAAD battery is a sovereign right of South Korea, and the issue is not linked with Beijing's participation in the U.N. sanctions." Follow Jun Ji-hye on Twitter @TheKopJihye By Javier Solana MADRID Five years after the start of the so-called Arab Spring, the hope that initially characterized those revolutions has largely been dashed. In many cases, the revolutions have evolved into brutal and protracted internal conflicts, with no solution in sight. Amid all of this strife, the international community has paid little attention to countries like Algeria, where the revolutionary spirit was stifled while still incipient. But Algeria's fate is back on the world's radar and not a moment too soon. On February 7, Algeria's parliament approved a new package of constitutional reforms , which, among other things, limit presidents to two terms (President Abdelaziz Bouteflika, the last surviving leader of Algeria's war of independence against France, has been in office since 1999) and recognize some fundamental freedoms. These steps, in the making since 2011, aim to strengthen Algeria's democratic standing; but they have been widely criticized as insufficient. What is not in doubt is that the reforms come at a sensitive time, when Algeria is plagued by political and economic uncertainty. The "consensus" that supposedly shapes Algerian politics has, in fact, paralyzed decision-making for many years now. With the ailing Bouteflika not seen in public for more than a year, important questions have emerged about how the 2019 presidential election will play out. Efforts over the last three years to curtail the power of the security and intelligence services in September, Mohamed Mediene, who had been chief of the intelligence services since 1990, was forced to retire are just one source and manifestation of domestic political tension. Significant external challenges have exacerbated Algeria's situation. In particular, with the oil and gas industry accounting for fully 97% of Algeria's export income, the sharp decline in oil prices since June 2014 has underscored the unsustainability of the country's economic model. Falling oil revenues mean that Algeria's government cannot maintain the broad array of subsidies that traditionally served as a social balm, helping prevent protest. The government has already had to increase some taxes, while raising prices for fuel, electricity, and gas. If the price of oil does not rise soon, and Algeria's leaders are forced to take more drastic measures, social stability could be jeopardized. To be sure, some factors may help to stave off social unrest namely, the population's memories of the brutal civil war of the 1990s, in which more than 150,000 people were killed. But, memories fade as time passes, and a new generation of young people lack the same fear of social strife that their parents and grandparents have. In this social context, and if economic hardship persists, protests and even revolt may not be a distant prospect. To avoid such an outcome, Algeria's government must work fast to diversify the economy. But such concerted action will be difficult in the current political environment, especially in view of the government's increased focus on security challenges in Algeria's neighborhood. Given the revolution in Tunisia, the war in Libya, the rebellion of the Tuaregs in Mali, and, most important, the 2013 terrorist attack on Algeria's large In Amenas gas plant, the country's leaders are placing an increasingly high priority on regional security. Although the constitution explicitly prohibits military intervention in other countries, Algeria has a clear interest reflected in its foreign policy in ensuring that its neighbors are stable and capable of dissuading extremist groups. For example, in Libya, Algeria has defended a process of inclusive national reconciliation of all forces, in support of efforts by the United Nations to stabilize the country. The United States and Europe have already recognized Algeria's leadership and cooperation in anti-terror efforts in its neighborhood. For the European Union, a further strengthening of ties with Algeria is particularly important, given both sides' interest in the stability of nearby North Africa and the Sahel, as well as Algeria's potential to help improve the EU's energy security. One key way Algeria can help improve security cooperation in its region would be to restore diplomatic relations with Morocco. True, the countries have been at loggerheads for 40 years, owing to their sovereignty dispute over Western Sahara. But the economic, commercial, and security-related dividends that renewed cooperation would provide should be enough to persuade them to reconsider this position. If the two North African giants were to recognize their mutual interests and reestablish ties, they would disentangle relations in the Maghreb. Algeria's influence across Africa would also receive a boost. Already, Algeria's Africa-wide influence may be set to grow. Some have suggested that an Algerian candidate could become Chair of the Commission of the African Union when the current term expires next July. Here, Algeria's consistent support for the AU and its commitment to regional security exemplified in its role in the Mali peace agreement and its hosting of the Libya talks would speak in its favor. If successful, Algeria would become the first North African country to lead the AU. The severe challenge posed by falling oil prices and a jittery regional context attest to the urgent need for change in Algeria. But if the government acts to unblock the political system, diversify the economy, and ramp up diplomatic efforts, Algeria can emerge stronger and more influential than ever. Javier Solana was EU High Representative for Foreign and Security Policy, Secretary-General of NATO, and Foreign Minister of Spain. He is currently President of the ESADE Center for Global Economy and Geopolitics and Distinguished Fellow at the Brookings Institution. The United States is committed to using the full range of its defense capabilities to safeguard South Korea in the event of war with North Korea, a defense ministry official here said Monday after attending a joint defense exercise in California. The allies held their annual anti-nuclear joint exercise at Vandenberg Air Force Base last week where some 40 defense officials from the two countries discussed warfare strategies to counter North Korea's nuclear and weapons of mass destruction threats. During the three-day exercise, the U.S. side demonstrated its contingency plan to deploy the U.S. Air Force's B-52 bomber to South Korea. The South Korean side has also been briefed on the aircraft's capacity to carry nuclear bombs, the official told reporters, asking not to be named. The global power also has a warfare strategy to intercept North Korean intercontinental ballistic missiles with its Ground-Based Interceptor, known as GBI, if the communist country launches them at the mainland U.S., the official said, referring to a set of anti-North Korea combat strategies discussed in the exercise. The South Korean officials also sat in for the U.S. Air Force's test launch of a Minuteman 3 missile, which took place in California during the exercise, the official noted. (Yonhap) By Yi Whan-woo China's top nuclear envoy Wu Dawei met with Foreign Minister Yun Byung-se in Seoul, Monday, as part of a series of consultations with South Korean officials over a draft U.N. resolution aimed at toughening sanctions against North Korea. Wu earlier visited Cheong Wa Dae and met Cho Tae-yong, the deputy chief of the National Security Office (NSO). They assessed the U.N. resolution that awaits approval from the U.N. Security Council (UNSC) after being drafted by the United States and China and then circulated to the 15-member council, including non-permanent members, according to government officials. "We reckon China's support is essential to press North Korea to give up its nuclear ambitions," a presidential official said on condition of anonymity. It is believed Wu reaffirmed the Chinese government's stance, Sunday, that it will faithfully carry out the U.N. resolution once it is passed. Upon his arrival in Seoul, Sunday, Wu held talks with his South Korean counterpart Hwang Joon-kook. Wu then said Seoul and Beijing will cooperate for the UNSC's adoption of the resolution in response to North Korea's latest nuclear test on Jan. 6 and long-range rocket launch on Feb. 7, which was suspected to be a test of its ballistic missile technology. Wu's visit came after Beijing, Pyongyang's largest benefactor, voluntarily agreed on a set of punitive measures outlined in the U.N. resolution. The measures are aimed at the scope of sanctions against the Kim Jong-un regime for continuing to develop weapons of mass destructions in defiance of a set of four UNSC sanctions. They include banning exports of jet oil to North Korea, prohibiting imports of North Korea-produced iron ore and inspecting all cargo ships entering and leaving North Korean ports. Wu did not mention the possible deployment of the U.S. Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system on the Korean Peninsula. China has protested that THAAD could be used to spy on its military activities. It is believed Beijing asked Washington to reconsider its joint talks with Seoul on the deployment in return for its support of the U.N. resolution. It is also speculated that Beijing will ask Seoul soon to consider peace talks to officially end the 1950-53 Korean War. The talks have been repeatedly proposed by the Kim Jong-un regime, but both Seoul and Washington suspect that the North could use the talks as an excuse to demand that U.S. troops stationed in South Korea be removed, while maintaining its nuclear arsenal. By Yi Whan-woo The Ministry of Unification in conjunction with the Australian government and a university in Sydney will launch a study abroad program for former North Korean defectors. The ministry said Monday that Unification Minister Hong Yong-pyo signed a memorandum of understanding with Australian Ambassador to South Korea William Paterson and University of Technology Sydney (UTS) Managing Director Alex Murphy at Hong's office in downtown Seoul. Five college students who escaped from the North will be chosen every year. It has not been decided when the program will begin. Participating students will have a chance to join a 30-week English-language-learning program at UTS:INSEARCH, a UTS language school. The program will require 30 million won ($22,400) annually. The unification ministry will provide one-third of the cost, while Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and the UTS will cover the rest. "Such expenses include medical care, textbooks and airline tickets," the ministry said in a press release. "We hope our program will help participants to interact with international students while bolstering their English-language abilities." Former North Korean students lacked opportunities to learn English extensively in the repressive regime, and therefore have difficulty coping with academic work at South Korean universities, according to the government. Professors Seo Jeong-min, right, and Sherif Heikal of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies talk about the Arab Spring at Seo's office in Seoul on Feb. 24. The Korea Times organized the discussion to find possible lessons from Korea's past struggles to help the region achieve democracy, as this year marks the fifth anniversary of the resignations of several Middle Eastern leaders following the popular uprisings there. / Korea Times photo by Kang Hyun-kyung By Kang Hyun-kyung Democracy doesn't happen overnight, and freedom doesn't come free. A free democracy is the result of decades or even centuries of continuous, collective effort and the sacrifice of countless lives. Political observers say such lessons that were evident in the establishment of democracy in South Korea may also be applied to Middle Eastern countries that have been going through radical political changes after a series of uprisings. Triggered by the self-immolation of vendor Mohamed Bouazizi in December 2010 in protest of the repressive Tunisian government, the Arab Spring spread rapidly to neighboring nations and overthrew some of the long-serving, corrupt leaders there. Seo Jeong-min, a professor of Middle East politics of Hankuk University of Foreign Studies (HUFS), said the series of uprisings in the Middle East have something in common with the massive protests in Korea in 1960 following the fraudulent presidential election that same year. "Both of them are bottom-up revolutions that led to the ouster of authoritarian leaders," he said. What happened after those revolutionary events in Korea and the Arab Spring countries is also similar democracy remained an unfinished business, Seo said. "In Korea, we had to wait another 27 years to see the June 29 Declaration, a milestone political event that showed how the nation achieved a democracy with the Korean people given their right to elect their president directly," he said. The 1987 Declaration is regarded as a victory for democracy because it showed the surrender of authoritarian leader Chun Doo-hwan in the face of massive protests. Chun took power through a coup amid the political instability that followed the assassination of military general-turned-President Park Chung-hee in 1979. Earlier in 1987, Chun announced an indirect presidential election, which angered students and citizens and prompted them to protest against the Chun administration and demand free, direct elections. For several months, anti-government rallies took place all across the nation, causing the Chun government to back down. On June 27, Chun's protege, Roh Tae-woo, read a prepared statement promising to hold direct elections. Seo said the Arab Spring is a historic event in that it represents the first citizen-led uprisings in the Middle East. However, he said democracy building there could take longer than in Korea because the countries face more challenges, such as nation building and integration, two issues that Korea didn't have in 1960. Five years have passed since Tunisian President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali was forced to step down in January 2011. However, Tunisia is regarded as the only success story of Arab Spring because it achieved some degree of freedom of expression and transitioned smoothly to a democracy. The other Arab Spring countries Libya, Syria and Yemen are still mired in conflicts that have only worsened over time. Egypt held free elections following Hosni Mubarak's forced resignation in February 2011, weeks after the spread of massive protests against the long-serving president's corruption and economic mismanagement. But the country's economic woes still persist even after the elections of Mohamed Morsi, who was in power for a year before he was ousted, and current President Abdel Fatttah el-Sisi. Professor Seo said technology played a critical role in the spread of the popular protests across the Middle East. "There was no social media in 1960 when the April 19 uprisings occurred in Korea. The Arab Spring protestors' use of technology makes them different from the Korean democracy fighters over five decades ago," he said. The April 19 uprisings in Korea refers to a series of popular protests in 1960 against the then Syngman Rhee government following the fraudulent presidential election on March 15, where Rhee's protege defeated his political rival with a surprisingly wide margin of over eight million votes. The protest first drew the massive participation of citizens in the southeastern port city of Masan after the discovery of the body of a 16 year-old high school student, Kim Ju-yeol, who was killed when a tear gas canister struck him in the eye during the demonstrations. Angered by Kim's death, students and citizens took to the streets and called for Rhee to take responsibility for the fraudulent election. The uprising spread quickly to other cities all across the country and eventually led to the ouster of President Rhee. Chang Myon, the leader of the opposition Democratic Party, took power, but owing to his administration's inability to handle state affairs, the political instability continued. The democracy was short-lived, and the persistent chaos prompted a military coup a year later that put President Park Chung-hee in power for 18 years. Sherif Heikal, a professor of the Department of Middle East and North Africa at HUFS, noted that the April 16 uprisings and the Arab Spring are different because they occurred in different contexts. The popular protests in Korea in 1960 demanded democracy, whereas the wave of rebellions in the Middle East were caused by a more complex web of reasons, including corruption and various economic and social grievances. However, the Egyptian professor said there are lessons that the Arab Spring countries can learn from Korea's experiences with democracy. According to him, Korea, just like the Arab Spring countries, faced two obstacles to democracy political polarization and authoritarian leadership that it ultimately overcame. "Political clashes between Islamists and liberals and a strong state are two barriers to democracy building in the Arab Spring countries," Heikal observed. He declined to use the popular term "seculars," saying "liberals" are more accurate. According to him, Arab liberals include seculars and other political forces, such as the supporters of the civil state, which he said stands between the secular and theocratic state. He said the differences between Islamists and liberals are so deep that narrowing their differences in the near future seems unrealistic, and these insurmountable differences pose a challenge to democracy building there. Heikal said a strong state is a popular governing style in the Middle East where the legislative and judiciary institutions are in place but are sometimes bypassed by leaders when setting and pushing for national agendas. "Some Western scholars refer to this as coercive apparatus,'" but I disagree," he said. According to him, political leaders are tempted to abuse their power in the name of national security, external threats and emergencies, and this abuse of power hampers democracy in Arab Spring countries. The scholar said democracy in Korea came with the abolition of decades of authoritarian leaderships, and this phenomenon can be a lesson for the Arab Spring countries seeking to establish democracy. Meanwhile, Seo said Korea's experiences show that achieving democracy is a time-consuming, painstaking process that sometimes requires a lot of sacrifice. "Don't forget that it took 27 years from the April 16 uprisings for Korea to achieve the right to hold direct presidential elections." Seo said that to facilitate democracy, the Arab Spring countries need to prioritize overcoming its economic woes. "It's natural that people have high expectations of those who came to power after the uprisings, and thus, the new leaders there are facing rising demands from the public," he said. "If they are unable to show economic progress to assure the public that their lives will improve, these leaders could face the consequences." Rep. Cho Won-jin, left, vice floor leader of the ruling Saenuri Party, spars with Lee Seok-hyun, vice speaker of the National Assembly, over a filibuster speech being given by Rep. Kim Kyung-hyup of the main opposition Minjoo Party of Korea, Friday. Opposition lawmakers continued to filibuster the Assembly plenary session for the fourth consecutive day to block a vote on a disputed anti-terrorism bill. / Yonhap By Rachel Lee South Korean opposition parties set a new world record for the longest filibuster, Friday, continuing their speeches for the fourth consecutive day to protest an anti-terrorism bill pushed by the ruling party. The main opposition Minjoo Party of Korea (MPK) began the filibuster Tuesday at 7:07 p.m. to block a vote on the disputed anti-terrorism bill after Assembly Speaker Chung Ui-hwa exercised his authority to put it to a vote. Minor opposition parties later joined the filibuster. The previous world record was Canada's New Democratic Party (NDP) that orchestrated a filibuster session for two days and 10 hours in 2011 to prevent the passing of a bill ordering Canada Post employees back to work. The bill was introduced after Canada Post locked out its employees following a series of rotating strikes as talks between the Canadian Union of Postal Workers and Canada Post collapsed. Despite the filibuster, the bill was passed. Rep. Kim Kwang-jin of the MPK kicked off the first speech for 5 hours and 32 minutes during a plenary session of the National Assembly, followed by Rep. Moon Byeong-ho who gave a speech for an hour and 49 minutes, and Rep. Eun Soo-mi, who delivered a 10 hour and 18 minute long speech, setting a record for the longest speech in South Korean history by a lawmaker. The ruling Saenuri Party proposed the bill, which aims to give the National Intelligence Service the authority to collect information on private communications, travel and financial transactions of potential terrorists. By Ranjit Kumar Dhawan Nationalism is a modern ideology. It is the force which has given rise to nation-states across the world. The term "nation" basically refers to a community of people with a common ethnicity, language, culture, food habits, etc. The development of "print capitalism" brought people of the same languages together. According to social scientist Benedict Anderson, nations are "imagined communities." But the nation remains a powerful institution and a major source of identity that divides the people of the world. In the past, people were part of small communities. They identified themselves on the basis of kinship and clan. Feelings of patriotism were limited to a small territory. However in the modern times nationalism has emerged as a powerful force. Strong nationalistic feelings have played an important role in economic development but have also led to horrific wars. Koreans are also highly nationalist people. Nationalism emerged in Korea during the late 19th century with the penetration of foreign powers into the country and it has played a pivotal role in shaping the Korean nation. But what are the sources of Korean nationalism? There could be six possible origins. First, Koreans have an immense love and respect for the history of their country. This is evident from the fact that Koreans preserve every bit and piece of anything which is of historical significance with great care. Centuries-old texts, artifacts, tools and ornaments can be found in Korea well preserved. A visit to any museum or historical monument in Korea is really inspiring. Koreans proudly narrate the 5,000-year-old history of their country. Second, the belief in common origin is also closely related to nationalist feelings of Koreans. The legend of Dangun is often cited as the beginning of the first dynasty and history of the Korean people. According to the popular narrative, 2333 BCE is the year of the origin of the Korean nation and October 3 is the National Foundation Day which is celebrated every year with enthusiasm throughout the country. The legend of Dangun enforces the concept of the homogeneity of the Korean people. Third, the uniqueness of Korean language and culture had been crucial in developing Korean nationalism. Despite being profoundly influenced by Chinese civilization, Korea was able to develop its own unique culture and traditions. Fourth, Korean food is the hallmark of Koreaness. Kimchi is a quintessential item in Korean cuisine. Apart from that, Koreans have a wide range of other foods. Fifth, "Arirang" is the song of Korean national identity. The singing of this song was a means of protest during the Japanese occupation (1910-45) as the colonial authorities had banned it. Even during the Korean War (1950-53) this song was used for psychological warfare. Several North Korean soldiers defected to the South after listening to this song. "Arirang" creates passion among Koreans. Sixth, the economic transformation of the country in the modern period also generates a sense of national pride among Koreans. The strong nationalistic ethos of Korea was channeled by the Korean "developmental state" to create the "Miracle on the Han River." Economic nationalism and neo-mercantilism remained at the core of Korea's economic development strategy during the Cold War period. But despite having strong nationalism, Korea remains the world's only divided country. It is time for Koreans to forget their ideological and regional differences and unify the Korean Peninsula and build a nation which would not be dependent on foreign countries for economic or security reasons. This would fulfill the dreams of the founding fathers and leaders of the independence movement across the Korean Peninsula. The author is a Ph.D candidate at the School of International Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University in New Delhi, India. His e-mail address is rkdhawan13@hotmail.com. By Andrew Salmon Last year, I was approached, as a Korea-based foreign reporter, to write/present two documentaries for KBS, to be filmed along the North Korea-China border. My views and those of the filmmakers coincided. The projects went ahead. The broad arguments made in the programs were not, I thought, particularly controversial. The arguments were, basically: Politics and diplomacy have failed to change North Korea. Currently, seismic economic changes are underway inside North Korea. These "bottom-up" changes are positive in that they can potentially enrich and empower many North Koreans and erode state control. Ergo, we (i.e. the wider world) should consider reinforcing these changes and engage with the players. The documentaries duly aired. I was professionally pleased with the results. KBS has a wide audience, and over subsequent months, I was approached by a number of people almost all 40-50something Koreans in the street, in shops, in subways and at social gatherings, who had watched them. However, the conversations that ensued caused me to develop a sense of considerable foreboding. The discussions were all similar. My interlocutors were all kind, complimenting the programs. But they all said in some cases, sotto voce, as if they did not wish to be overhead that while they agreed with the documentaries' overall stance, they could not publically say so themselves. This surprised me. I asked why they felt this way. Almost all said that they felt that a foreigner could say what I had said, but not a Korean. Several said they could not reveal their opinions in case they were "criticized." I am not entirely sure why this feeling existed. Certainly, the older generation, who lived under authoritarian regimes, had to be more careful airing views about North Korea than the current generation. And certainly, a number of political and judicial developments under the Park Geun-hye administration and its predecessor, the Lee Myung-bak administration (2008-2013), have chiseled away at the principles of free speech and open inquiry. In 2009, a blogger whose economic views the government disagreed with was jailed. Also during Lee's term, a think-tank head was forced from his position for making comments about the colonial period which questioned conventional wisdom. In 2014, a foreign journalist faced a court case for questioning President Park's whereabouts during the Sewol tragedy. Additionally, right now an academic whose views on "comfort women" are out of sync with the dominant local narrative is being silenced by judicial assault. Moreover, telecoms are handing over reams of their customers' private information to the government. Seoul, which already has the blunt tool of the National Security Law at hand, is attempting to enact new "anti-terrorism" legislation on flimsy (if not downright dubious) evidence of North Korean threats, evidence produced by a badly discredited agency. Moreover, the media, a key social agora, is already hobbled. Open any local newspaper and look at the number of articles quoting anonymous, rather than named, sources. This is particularly true when it comes to questions over the non-accountability of the heads of big business (there is a sound economic reason for this: It is an open secret in Korean media circles that any outlet that is harshly critical of conglomerates stands to lose lucrative advertising streams.) These issues are all pertinent. But there seems to be a wider, more pervasive habit of not speaking up or speaking out that cannot be blamed on recent developments. I sense that social culture, rather than judicial, political or economic factors, has generated sensitivity about raising voices on certain controversial matters. Strong group identification generates a fear of having one's personal views exposed, if that view does not fit the conventional wisdom. This leads to fears of "sticking one's head above the parapet," of igniting peer criticism, of being ostracized. Certainly, such fears are present in all societies. But in such a strong, closely knit and connected social culture as Korea's, these fears may be more formidable than elsewhere. Such fears should be quelled. Freely aired views, vigorous debate and rational argument are critical to conflict resolution, be it personal or marital, national or international. Battening down and shutting up is a dire option particularly when it comes to taboo subjects, or subjects on which only a single viewpoint predominates. Taboos should be challenged. People should speak up. The worst kind of censorship is self-censorship. External censorship can, at least, be publicized, resisted and struggled against. Self-censorship is more insidious. If the individual fears to speak his/her mind, that mind is already trammeled; that individual is not free. Free speech is a critical right. This right the right to express contrary viewpoints should be respected. And like all rights, it must be exercised. If it is not, bad habits set in, free speech atrophies, and it becomes increasingly vulnerable to suppression. When it comes to free speech: Use it or lose it. Andrew Salmon is a Seoul-based reporter and author. Reach him at andrewcsalmon@yahoo.co.uk. NK falters in old game, needs to change or else By now, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un must have realized that the winning game in his inherited playbook has finally run out of magic and that it is high time for him to face a new reality or get swept away by the juggernaut of change. Since its Jan. 6 nuclear test, China, its benefactor, and the United States, its adversary, have been at loggerheads, blaming each other for the North's wanton behavior. It's natural that the 33-year-old young dictator enjoyed watching the fight as his grandfather, Kim Il-sung, did with his "equidistance diplomacy," playing China off the Soviet Union to court the fellow communist state. But the Feb. 7 rocket launch finally made the world say, "Enough is enough," as China turned its back on Pyongyang and joined the United States for what is said to be the strongest package of sanctions yet by the United Nations. Kim needs to wake up to the new reality that has been long in coming: the Cold War is over, China led by modernist leaders and the U.S. and South Korea know its tricks inside out. Although Russia, the remnants of the Soviet Union, is temporarily holding up the passage of the sanctions, Kim should brace for the worst that can deal a final blow to his nation that is teetering on the brink of collapse, having survived chronic famines in the middle of prolonged isolation. The new U.N. sanctions would cut off fuel supplies from China to the North; all ships from and to ports in the North would be searched; financial transactions would be looked into; and minerals exports, a key source of hard currency earnings, would be out. True, some supplies for the use of ordinary people would be spared and contraband through the border with China could sustain Pyongyang for some time. But what is emerging from this international effort is a chokehold that will eventually lead to a comatose state. Of course, Kim in his young mind may think that he has a stockpile of nuclear weapons and missiles that carry them, which could be used to blackmail the South for handouts. As a key leader in an effort to penalize the North for its nuclear threats, the South shouldn't and wouldn't. Kim should also give it up, if he thinks about a suicidal nuclear attack. By doing so, he would invite a preemptive strike as practiced by the allied forces of South Korea and America. So what avenue is left for Kim? For once, he should show earnestness and join talks for denuclearization or, if being short of it, call for an indefinite moratorium on all nuclear and missile tests. If he worries about the South and U.S. attempting to topple his kingdom, he wouldn't be wrong by a wide margin but these countries as well as China have a stake in keeping the North from a sudden collapse that entails a massive spill of refugees in all directions. That is what Kim's survival depends on. As Pyongyang said immediately after the nuclear test, it should refrain from proliferating nuclear materials and technologies. By doing so, Kim as good has done half of the job. Being gun-shy, Kim may ask China to deliver his intention for a moratorium and nonproliferation. This could be the first and best step Kim has ever taken to ensure his immediate survival. If he is not convinced, he should think about the alternative either eating scraps of missiles for lunch or being pulled down violently from the throne. By Kim Ji-soo People Editor Literature, the conscious mass of words and sentences that manages to capture the thoughts or sentiments of society, will invariably travel through borders porously. That mass will have a universal thrust or undercurrent that will manage to open the hearts and minds of different readers. And in a way, it could be just as powerful as music; in another, it may well be more powerful than food for example, as the palate can be trickier to pull at. In that vein, books by the Korean novelist Han Kang are gaining traction in the British and North American literature market. Han's 2014 work, "Human Acts" about a boy who searches for his friend's corpse during the May 18 Democratic Movement in Gwangju was published in the United Kingdom in January. Translated by Debora Smith, Han's clear almost translucent work has been appealing to British readers. The Guardian called her one of "best kept secrets" of Korea. Her 2004 work "The Vegetarian," was published in the United States by Hogarth Publishing in February. In Britain, "The Vegetarian" was published last year. It is hard to deny that the news of Han's reception overseas comforts Korean readers in re-learning that our literature still communicates across borders. It is a sliver of good news against the general decline in Korean literature domestically after controversies over plagiarism and drops in readership. Before Han, there were noted writers who achieved varying degrees of success overseas including Shin "Please Look After Mom," and Hwang Sun-mi's fable, "A Hen Who Dreamed She Could Fly." Before them, there were also distinguished veteran writers such as Park Wan-seo whose works were translated into French as well. Noted author Kim Young-ha has enjoyed success with his works. Another undeniable aspect of the resurgent interest via Han's novels is that it amps up the anticipation that a Korean author will earn more global recognition including the Nobel Prize for literature. Koreans' desire to receive a Nobel Prize for literature is heightened every year especially since poet Ko Un's name was mentioned several years ago. Critics including the author Kim Young-ha ("I Have the Write to Destroy Myself") have criticized the Korean desire for a Nobel as a craving for recognition that goes back to its tragic past of colonialization. But to be recognized runs along the lines of the desire to be understood. It is a basic instinct of people to want to be understood. To the extent of overdoing it, we could argue that when Koreans obtain a measure of confidence about themselves through literature and not only through "made-in-Korea" products there ought to come some good to follow as Korea steps up in its role as a member of global society. More Korean literary works are expected to be translated into various languages in the coming days. What is interesting to note is that there will invariably be more works from a younger generation of Korean writers, who might be slightly more removed from the direct impact or fetters of history in the stages of democratization and the rapid industrialization of Korea Inc. Yet nevertheless, they will be writers courageous enough to starkly stare at the essence of human instincts, desires and issues hinging on some certain second, minute, hour, day or week or month. It is good to know that readers of varying languages will be able to share those moments captured in Korean literature. Choi Yeon-woo, a professor at the Korean Traditional Clothes Department at Dankook University, shows off a silk shroud at the Sangmyung Art Gallery in Daehangno, downtown Seoul, Friday. / Courtesy of Dankook University By Lee Min-hyung Choi Yeon-woo, 46, calls for more attention to traditional clothing as a major tool for research into the historical relations between Asian countries. "Traditional clothing is not about what people wore, but an object for more thorough research to analyze the political and historical relations of neighboring countries," said Choi, a professor at the Korean Traditional Clothes department at Dankook University, in an interview, Friday. She said some experts have approached the matter from this perspective, as Korea has long-term close relations with China and Japan. But they have yet to reach satisfactory results, which is why she is pushing for a leap forward in the area. She said she became interested in traditional clothing at an early age, as her hometown has a strong tradition of weaving ramie cloth. "My hometown, Hansan in South Chungcheong Province, was named on the UNESCO cultural heritage list in 2011 in recognition of local weaving techniques," said the professor. "That's why I got familiar with the study of traditional clothing, so I earned master's and doctoral degrees in Korean traditional clothing." In particular, she is running a project to correct a distorted tradition of wearing hemp clothes, which was passed down from the Japanese occupation (1910-45). "People regard hemp clothes as part of our own cultural heritage," she said, "but this is remnants of Japanese colonialism, so I decided to restore our traditional shroud in a modern way." The project comes ahead of the Independence Movement Day on March 1. The restored shroud will be exhibited at the university's museum in Yongin, Gyeonggi Province, and an exhibition center in Seoul. "Japan forced us to scrap our traditions in 1934, and the hemp clothes have since been thought of as our own," she said. A group of 15 professors, led by Choi, spent a year restoring the traditional silk shroud. "We are going to continue our efforts to root out other clothing traditions from the Japanese colonial era, including wearing armbands or ribbons and decorating altars with chrysanthemum, which represents Japanese monarchy," she added. Ihn Ji-yeon, center, the founder and president of Now! Act for North Koreans! (NANK), delivers a collection of photos on the group's activities to National Assembly Speaker Chung Ui-hwa at Chung's office in Seoul on Dec. 22, 2015. / Courtesy of Ihn Ji-yeon By Yi Whan-woo Now! Act for North Koreans! (NANK), a Seoul-based activist group set up in September 2013, has been campaigning for the parliament to pass approval for a long-stalled bill drawn up to research, record and attempt to counter Pyongyang's human rights abuses. With the National Assembly set to pass the bill by the end of this week, Ihn Ji-yeon, the founder and president of NANK, says her next goal is to help North Koreans who have left the isolated state socially integrate in the South. "It will not be the end, but just the beginning for me and NANK if the bill on North Korean human rights is approved," she told The Korea Times in a phone interview, Tuesday. "The passage of the bill is a small but critical step for social integration in a unified Korea and that's why NANK has asked lawmakers to endorse it as quickly as possible while requesting people to join our campaign." The rival parties are expected to put the much-touted bill to a vote at a plenary session slated for Friday. If endorsed, it will be the first South Korean legislation addressing the dire human rights situation in North Korea. Beginning in 2005, a string of precedent proposals against Pyongyang's crimes against humanity was submitted to the National Assembly but they were all scrapped due to concerns that they may provoke the repressive regime. Ihn said that there are still many improvements to be made at both parliamentary and civic levels to embrace North Koreans who come here while preparing to punish their leadership. She cited the 2016 bill jointly proposed by Reps. Yoon Sang-hyun and Hwang Jin-ha of the ruling Saenuri Party. Its key points include setting up an archive under the Ministry of Unification and collecting evidence on Pyongyang's dire human rights record while sharing the data with the Ministry of Justice every three months. "It's the justice ministry that will have the right to investigate and bring criminal charges against the North Korean leadership. And it should be operating the archive and use the related data in accusing the Pyongyang regime," Ihn said. "I'll wait for ratification of the bill then will ask the lawmakers to amend it accordingly." She claimed that South Koreans are less interested than foreigners regarding issues related to North Korean human rights, referring to NANK's two campaigns. Ihn organized campaigns in Gwanghwamun Square in 2013 and 2015 respectively. Each campaign ran for 100 straight days, during which NANK members heralded the deplorable living conditions of North Koreans, including political prisoners, and asked the passers-by to join them. "Expats and international tourists gathered around us on the streets whenever they heard us shouting four words, North Korean human rights,' but most of the South Koreans just passed by," she said. "It'll be our job to raise awareness toward our brothers in the North." Ihn, 43, who was a freelance English to Korean translator, said she decided to become a full-time North Korean human rights activist after watching a musical, titled "Yodok Story" in 2006. It dealt with inhuman living condition of political prisoners at a North Korean concentration camp in Yodok, South Hamgyong Province. Ihn studied at Handong University Law School and also worked as an intern at the U.N. Office off the High Commissioner For Human Rights before launching NANK. NANK has a total of 205 members. Popular Hangeul calligrapher Kang Byung-in demonstrates various calligraphy styles for the Korean character "Kkot," or flower in English. In the back row from left are Austrian Ambassador to Korea Elisabeth Bertagnoli, Singaporean Ambassador Wei Kiat Yip, Malaysian Ambassador Rohana Ramli and Alexandra Prasetio, the spouse of the Indonesian ambassador. / Korea Times photo by Kim Jae-heun By Kim Jae-heun Renowned Korean calligrapher Kang Byung-in gave a speech and lesson on Korean calligraphy to foreign diplomats at the invitation of the Corea Image Communication Institute (CICI), led by President Choi Jung-hwa, at the residence of Malaysian Ambassador Dato Rohana Ramli, Tuesday. "I am honored to introduce Korean calligraphy to foreign ambassadors tonight," said Kang. "We tend to limit Korean letters as phonograms, but Hangeul can also express the meaning of the letters through calligraphy. I wanted to show the value of Korean letters, especially to foreigners who may only know Hangeul as a means to deliver information." After an hour-long speech, Kang wrote diverse styles of the word "kkot" (flower) in Korean calligraphy _ some of which looked like actual flowers. Malaysian Ambassador Ramli and Singaporean Ambassador Yip Wei Kiat volunteered to try their hands at the calligraphy first. "This is my first time trying Korean calligraphy but I knew calligraphy from before because we also have calligraphy for Arabic letters in Malaysia," said the Malaysian envoy. "But I am afraid that in my national language, we don't have the stroke. We use the Roman alphabet. Stroke is important (for Korean calligraphy) when you write from top to bottom and from left to right." The Singaporean Ambassador agreed that experiencing Korean calligraphy was completely new although he has studied the Korean language before and did Chinese calligraphy at school when he was young. "I had fun," said the Singaporean envoy. "I was impressed by the way Kang wrote flower in a more artistic form, which evolved into a picture from what could be just a normal Korean character. It was interesting." The event was held as a part of CICI's Korea Culture Quotient (CQ) program, which brings together more than 60 foreign diplomats posted in Korea. By Yoon Sung-won A U.S. appeals court has nullified key Apple patents, helping Samsung accelerate its efforts for an "exit strategy" from its long-running patent disputes with its "love-and-hate" American business partner. Last week, the U.S. Court of Appeals in Washington D.C. overturned the original verdict that confirmed Samsung's infringement on Apple's three patent rights and nullified the charge. The latest ruling means Apple's attempts to receive $119 million from Samsung Electronics have failed and that Apple must pay $158,400 to the Korean company for infringing on one Samsung-owned patent. "Last week's ruling is significant because Samsung Electronics found an excuse that its Galaxy devices weren't the result of copying," an official said on Sunday. "Efforts by the two companies to end litigation will be accelerated." Samsung had dropped its lawsuits against Apple in all countries, but not in the U.S. Despite the continued legal tussle, Apple still relies heavily on Samsung Electronics to source displays, mobile processor chips and DRAM chips for iPhones and iPads. Samsung Electronics refused to say if it had any imminent plans to withdraw its lawsuits against one of its largest business clients in the U.S. Apple did not comment on the ruling. However, officials said the iPhone designer might take the case to the Supreme Court, expecting the ruling to be overturned in the final ruling. By Park Si-soo The White House said Thursday the United States and China have agreed on a draft resolution imposing fresh sanctions on North Korea and the Security Council could vote on the measure in the coming days. According to AFP, the U.S. circulated the draft text to the other three veto-wielding permanent council members Britain, France and Russia on Wednesday (local time) and was set to formally present it to the full 15-member council soon. "There is good progress on the resolution and we are hopeful that there will be an adoption in the coming days," a council diplomat was quoted as saying in the AFP report. Negotiations on the draft resolution began six weeks ago after North Korea carried out its fourth nuclear test on January 6 and claimed it was a thermonuclear device. "There were a significant number of blockage points between these two countries," said the diplomat, referring to the U.S. and China. "But there is agreement between these two countries." After talks in Washington on Tuesday with China's Foreign Minister Wang Yi, U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry said "there is no question that if the resolution is approved, it will go beyond anything that we have previously passed." In the AFP report, a council diplomat described the draft resolution as a "significantly substantive text" while another diplomat said it contained "a large number of very tough measures," as well as names to be added to the sanctions blacklist. The demand is high for award winning pianist Cho Seong Jin. With the release of his second live album on Tuesday, Feb. 23, all 20,000 pre-ordered copies from the first production run have sold out. Pre-sale for Cho's album began on Feb. 5 online and off-line in music stores and production is currently in process for additional orders. The second live album consists of the recording of Cho's winning performance at the International Fryderyk Chopin Piano Competition in Poland last October. Compared to his first album featuring his performance from the previous year's competition, Cho Seong Jin's album consists of different pieces and formats, according to the Chopin Institute reported by Kpop Herald. After claiming victory last October, Cho Seong Jin is the first Korean to ever win the prestigious piano competition. Korean hip-hop is ready to take the United States by storm, beginning with a most Dynamic Duo. The hip hop duo, consisting of artists Gaeko and Choiza, are heading stateside next month. Dynamic Duo will play four shows, beginning in New York City and ending in Los Angeles with stops in Atlanta and Dallas in between. The New York City concert kicks off the tour on March 11 at PlayStation Theater in Manhattan. Dynamic Duo will head to Chicago's Vic Theater on March 13 before going south to Atlanta to perform at the Loft on March 16. The final show of the pair's North American concert will be held at Los Angeles' Club Nokia on March 19. Tickets start at $70 for general admission and goes up to $160 for VIP tickets that include a meet and greet with the two artists. Tickets for Los Angeles and New York are on sale via AXS, while fans attending the Chicago show can purchase their tickets through ETIX and Atlanta concertgoers can buy their tickets through Ticket Alternative. The tour is managed by MyMusicTaste. Dynamic Duo debuted in South Korea in 2003 and are signed to Amoeba Culture. The pair released their latest album, "The Grand Carnival," last November. --- Can three K-pop boy bands fill the void left by One Direction? Teen Vogue deems EXO, BTS and UNIQ as three K-pop boy bands that could steal the hearts of Directioners, at least until One Direction returns from their announced hiatus last year. In choosing EXO, writer Alexis Hodoyan explained that there is a lot that Directioners share with EXO fans, also known as EXO-Ls, especially when it comes to losing members. EXO is currently promoting as only nine members, down from the 12 members the group debuted with, after Kris, Tao and Luhan departed over the past couple of years. The writer goes on to praise EXO's "intricate choreographies and stellar velvety vocals" as driving their massive following. Meanwhile, UNIQ was highlighted for their growing popularity in China, multilingual singing abilities, and slick hip-hop and dubstep concepts. Lastly, Teen Vogue selected BTS for their strong work ethic, palpable hip-hop flavor, and authentic personalities. EXO, BTS and UNIQ were three K-pop boy bands out of the 12 that the list highlighted as possible successors to the One Direction throne, including other male acts such as 5 Seconds of Summer, FLY and Mexican boy band CD9. Do you agree with this selection? If not, which other K-pop boy bands should have made it to the list? --- Mickey is a writer and digital content creator based in Manila. He is a co-founder of ZAVI App and editor of the small business blog IndieMickey. He has also been bitten by the K-Pop fashion bug - follow him on Instagram @mickjami. The SLFP does not condone the continuation of the Emergency Regulations (The Public Security Ordinance) more than a day necessary Read more PRESS RELEASE Egypt Inaugurates New Canal at East Port Said Feb. 27 2016 (EIRNS)On Feb. 24 Egypt inaugurated a new canal, the East Port Said Canal, which is a short links between the Mediterranean and East Port Said, which is a container terminal opposite Port Said on the Mediterranean at the mouth of the Suez Canal. Vice Adm. Mohab Mamish, head of Suez Canal Authority led the official ceremony reported Daily News Egypt. East Port Said Canal lies at the northern entrance of the Suez Canal in the Mediterranean has a length of 9.5km and a depth of 18.5m. Costing $37 million, the project required the dredging of around 12.5 million cubic meters of sand, inserting of buoys and navigational signs. The dredging of the canal was begun in November and was completed within three months instead of seven and involved also cooperation between Belgiums Dredging International and U.S.-based Great Lakes Corp.. The canal will enable ships to enter the port without obstructing through traffic on the Suez Canal itself. "Developing the port will attract more ships to the port, as well as attract navigation lines, increase traffic and trade transiting the canal," said Prime Minister Sherif Ismail reported state-run Nile TV. The East Port Said canal and Port are part of the Suez Canal region economic development plans, covering development of six ports: Sukhna, Adabeyia, El Tour, East Port Said port navigational channel, and West Port Said ports, in addition to El Arish port. The new canal, which is 9.5 km long, links the East Port Said Harbor with the northern entrance of the Suez Canal at the Mediterranean. It was constructed to provide direct access to the harbor without hindering traffic along the Suez Canal. Vice Adm. Mohab Mamish said that East Port Said Canal project will double the capacity of East Port Said harbor and turn it into an important hub in eastern the Mediterranean region. PRESS RELEASE The Russians Are Moving Decisively and Rapidly To Implement a Truce in Syria Feb. 27, 2016 (EIRNS)The Russian Defense Ministry held a briefing this morning with General Sergei Rudskoi of the General Staff and Lt. Gen. Sergei Kuralenko, the director of the coordination center that the Russians have set up at their Latakia airbase in Syria. Rudskoi announced that the Russian air forces have suspended air strikes in the so-called green zone, in the areas and on those armed formations which have sent ceasefire applications to the Russian party. Seventeen armed formations which addressed the Command of the Hmeymim airbase and signed application documents are also bound to respect the ceasefire. They continue fighting ISIS, some in cooperation with the Syrian army, some on their own. The main missions of the Center are: assistance in conclusion of ceasefire agreements and maintenance of the regime of the cessation of hostilities with the leaders of armed formations, monitoring of its implementation, as well as organization of humanitarian cargo deliveries to the civilian population, Kuralenko said. The Center has received hundreds of phone calls and officers of the Center have held 49 negotiations with representatives of the armed formations, the Defense Ministry said. By the moment, the Center is preparing for signing necessary documents with representatives of local authorities in 47 inhabited areas in the provinces of Hama, Homs, Damascus and Daraa. A similar center has been set up by the U.S. in Amman and hotlines have been setup between the U.S. and Russian centers, Rudskoi said. Especially for information exchange with the American colleagues, there has been elaborated an operational map of Syria which has been passed to the American party in the course of the bilateral consultations in Amman on Feb. 26, as well as through the military diplomatic channels. The map contains marked areas which designate places where the peacemaking work is conducted, as well as the zones with the Syrian government troops and Kurdish territories; there are also marked the territories controlled by the ISIS, Jabhat al-Nusra and other armed formations, Rudskoi went on. Representatives of the United States have been sent a list of the armed formations with total strength of 6,111 people, which have joined the ceasefire regime as well as a list of 74 inhabited areas and zones with exact coordinates which must not be affected by strikes. Ceasefire violations are to be reported to the two centers which jointly or independently take measures aimed to stop the ceasefire violation and to de-escalate the tension as soon as possible. As for the truce, Kuralenko reported that fighting has stopped in 34 localities and that agreements on the cease fire and transfers to government control have been signed in three settlements. The Russian party fully implements its ceasefire obligations, Rudskoi said. However, it does not mean that the ISIS or the Jabhat al-Nusra militants can give a sign of relief. The Russian party fully controls the situation all over the territory of Syria. Meanwhile not less than 70 unmanned aerial vehicles, as well as space and other types of reconnaissance are used every day. The Russians may not be flying strike sorties, today, but that doesnt mean they arent paying attention to whats going on. The Defense Ministry added that 70 aircraft are monitoring the ceasefire in Syria with the assistance of reconnassance aircraft, surveillance satellites and other intelligence methods. PRESS RELEASE China Puts Silk Road at Center of Mideast Development Prospects at Valdai Club Discussions Feb. 28, 2016 (EIRNS)The center of Chinas strategy for the Middle East is economic development, within Chinas overall "One Road, One Belt"New Silk Roadinitiative, Chinese scholar Wu Bingbing emphasized in his presentation to the Sixth Session of the Valdai Discussion Clubs Feb. 25-26 Moscow conference, "Middle East: From Violence to Security." Scholars from Russia, Iran, India and the United States also participated in that session, dedicated to Middle East Cooperation and Development. Russian Ambassador Alexander Aksenyonok moderated the session, calling on the participants "to reflect on the new equilibrium, which has developed in the region, and on what diplomatic and other steps are required from regional and global players," t he Valdai Club summary reports. Wu, a Senior Senior Research Fellow at Beijing Universitys Institute for International and Strategic Studies, started from Chinas "One Belt and One Road" and its "win-win" perspective, which he said puts economic development at the center, despite the importance of security issues, although he did not specify any specific reconstruction measures. Included in his presentation was an attack on the regime change and "color revolution" strategies which only make things worse. Among the principles of Chinese policy towards the Arab region he identified, were a "no enemy policy" of "balanced relations with all countries in the region; security cooperation with Russia, the U.S., and the EU, "on the condition, that it is within the United Nations framework"; and "support for regional collective security initiatives, since no external force can guarantee the absolute security of the Middle East." Vitaly Naumkin, President of the Russian Academy of Sciences Institute of Oriental Studies, spoke of the Russian-American ceasefire agreement in Syria as an example of the great power cooperation necessary to resolve Middle East problems. To that end, Naumkin said that Russia "made an important concession to the U.S., by agreeing to exclude from the peace process only ISIS, al-Nusra and those organizations that are recognized as terrorist by the UN Security Council," Kayhan Barzegar, Director of Irans Institute for Middle East Strategic Studies, discussed Irans overall strategic philosophy on great power relations and relations with the immediate neighbors in the region, while Raman Kumaraswamy from the School of International Studies at Indias Jawaharlal Nehru University, outlined ideas on the possibilities for a Russia-Saudi Arabia rapprochement. The American on this panel, Jon Alterman, Director of the Center for Strategic and International Studiess Middle East Program, sounded a sour note, criticizing Russias airstrikes in Syria, and opposing them to Chinas policy. A more positive approach, with a notable emphasis on resolving economic problems, was presented in the concluding session of the conference by former U.S. Ambassador to Egypt and Israel, Daniel Kurtzer, now at Princeton Universitys Woodrow Wilson School. The Valdai Club reported that Kurtzer "expressed full solidarity with the thesis about the possibility and the need for coordinated actions to combat instability in the Middle East. According to him, the totality of the regions problems, such as lack of security, mass unemployment, need to reform health and education, must be resolved simultaneously." Four Hong Kong booksellers who went missing last year appeared on Chinese television and confessed to illegally selling banned books in mainland China, Reuters reports. Many international organizations had expressed concern that the booksellers had been abducted by Chinese authorities for selling unauthorized books, violating agreements relating to Hong Kong. A joint letter from PEN and the American Booksellers Assn. expressed deep concern over the forced disappearances and detentions as a direct and fundamental threat to Hong Kongs treaty-based regional autonomy. The four men, Cheung Chi Ping, Gui Minhai, Lam Wing Kee and Lui Por, are all associated with Mighty Current, a Hong Kong publisher, and Causeway Bay Books, the press bookstore. The publisher is known for books critical of Chinas Communist regime, which are legal in Hong Kong but forbidden in mainland China. Advertisement NEWSLETTER: Get the days top headlines from Times Editor Davan Maharaj >> I have deeply reflected on what I have done and very much regret the illegal book trading I have carried out with Gui Minhai, Lui Por told Hong Kongs Phoenix Television. Gui Minhai admitted to altering the covers of the books and smuggling them into China. The Financial Times notes that confessions on television are an increasingly common propaganda tool for Chinese police, and often used to target journalists, lawyers and activists, some of whom are coerced into admitting crimes they did not commit. Gui, a Swedish national, confessed in January to fleeing China after being paroled following a conviction for killing a student while driving under the influence. Lam Wing Kee, another of the booksellers who had disappeared, said that Guis books were fabricated and contained false information about China. They have generated lots of rumors in society and brought a bad influence, he said. I deeply acknowledge my mistakes and am willing to be penalized. Hong Kong Free Press reports that Gui appears to be the leader of the group. The idea of turning myself in crossed my mind more than once but I never had the courage, Gui said. I now know that these acts all seriously violated the law of China and I should receive punishment. I am very remorseful. See more of our top stories on Facebook >> A fifth bookseller, Lee Bo, who is a British citizen, did not appear on the broadcast. He has previously said that he is aiding the investigation into Guis books. The arrest of the booksellers has alarmed journalists and activists in Hong Kong. Columnist Jason Ng said the disappearance of the booksellers left Hong Kong citizens cynical and despondent. Every morning, Hong Kong people wake up to another news headline of utter absurdity, he said. There is one clumsy lie covering another clumsy lie every day. And the plot gets more and more farfetched. According to the television report, Cheung, Lam and Lui could be allowed to go back to Hong Kong as early as this week, although Gui and Lee are expected to remain jailed in China. ALSO Student activists in Hong Kong expect justice as they face charges over protests Pentagon worker admits to killing wife and officer working her first shift, records show Donald Trump blames a lousy earpiece for not disavowing the KKK on CNN Jaws must have dropped in the film-buff community during the In Memoriam segment of Sundays Oscars telecast when, among the nearly 50 departed actors, writers, directors, and others who made real contributions to the movies, the name and image of Kirk Kerkorian popped up. Certainly it struck film commentator Farran Nehme, who blogs as Self-Styled Siren, as amiss. Within minutes, she had tweeted: Including Kirk Kerkorian in a Hollywood film tribute montage is like including a Visigoth in a tribute to Rome. Including Kirk Kerkorian in a Hollywood film tribute montage is like including a Visigoth in a tribute to Rome. https://t.co/x9GIbIutSn Farran Nehme (@selfstyledsiren) February 29, 2016 Advertisement Shes right. Kerkorian, identified in the montage merely as an executive, was a billionaire whose ownership of MGM ended in the demise of the storied studio as a major factor in Hollywood. Peter Bart, who served under Kerkorian in the 1980s, described him in his book Fade Out: The Calamitous Final Days of MGM, as a savvy Las Vegas game player who exploited the studio to serve his personal objectives. The end result: Kerkorian emerged a billionaire. His companies emerged in shambles. The inclusion of Kerkorian in this years video farewell to movie figures underscores Hollywoods chronic inability to properly value its own history. While Kerkorian got a mention in the montage, for instance, left out was veteran character actor Abe Vigoda, who died Jan. 26 at 94, and left an indelible imprint on audiences as the doomed Corleone henchman Sal Tessio in The Godfather. (Tom, can you get me off the hook? For old times sake?) (Kerkorian) transformed corporate demolition into a high art. Former MGM executive Peter Bart Kerkorian, who died June 15 at the age of 98, seemed obsessed with the MGM name and its trademark lion, if not with the studios actual achievements. A man who seemed to appreciate doing a deal more than creating something lasting out of the transaction, he bought and sold the studio three times. As his obituary in The Times observed, His ownership of the studio was most notable for selling prized assets, including the historic studio lot in Culver City and the studios huge library, which ended up in the hands of Ted Turner. After Kerkorians death, Nehme assembled a few pointers to his destructive activities in Hollywood. In 1970, he had hired James T. Aubrey as MGMs president. Aubrey, who as head of CBS Television had created The Beverly Hillbillies among other markers of Americas cultural decline, began to dispose of all that had made MGM the greatest and most valuable studio. In a massive auction that year, Aubrey disposed of the studios costumes and props -- furniture, autos, trolleys, even the showboat from the the classic MGM musical of the same name. (Some of the artifacts were saved by Debbie Reynolds, who prowled the auction floor snapping up valuable properties to launch her own collection.) Kerkorian, according to Bart, transformed corporate demolition into a high art, becoming in the eyes of many in the film community, a one-man wrecking crew. He squeezed the studio for lavish dividend payments to help finance his real-estate ventures, including enormous Las Vegas casinos, built under the ownership of his corporation, MGM Grand (now MGM Resorts International). Kerkorians approach to Vegas was grandiose: Three of his casinos in succession -- ultimately the MGM Grand itself -- held the title of worlds largest hotel. Aubrey razed two MGM back lots and plotted to sell the real estate to developers. Aubrey, reported historian Hugh Fordin, ordered the music departments library burned, with the exception of one score for every film retained; out-takes, prerecordings, music tracks and the enormous stock-footage library also went. The vast script library was about to go up in flames, but was stopped by someone who cared, and they were sent to the USC library. Keep up to date with Michael Hiltzik. Follow @hiltzikm on Twitter, see our Facebook page, or email michael.hiltzik@latimes.com When Alicia Vikander first attended the Academy Awards three years ago, few on the red carpet knew who she was. The Swedish actress had flown to Hollywood in 2013 to support A Royal Affair a Danish picture competing for the foreign film prize that year but she was barely known outside of Europe. On Sunday night, the 27-year-old left the Dolby Theatre with an Oscar in hand for her supporting turn in The Danish Girl. In the film, in which she stars opposite Eddie Redmayne, Vikander plays Gerda Wegener, the wife of a painter who was one of the first people to receive gender reassignment surgery in the 1920s. OSCARS 2016: Live updates | List of nominees Advertisement In her acceptance speech, Vikander thanked Redmayne and director Tom Hooper and then pointed at her mother in the crowd. 1 / 49 Jennifer Lawrence (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 49 The Martian actor Matt Damon (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 49 Actress Priyanka Chopra (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 49 Taylor Kinney, left, and Lady Gaga arrive at the Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (Jordan Strauss/Invision/Associated Press) 5 / 49 Titanic costars Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet reunite on the red carpet. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 49 Amy Poehler and Michael Keaton (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 49 Charlize Theron (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 49 The Weeknd and Common (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP; Angela Weissangela Weiss/AFP/Getty Images) 9 / 49 Oscar nominees Cate Blanchett (Carol) and Bryan Cranston (Trumbo). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 49 Oscar nominee Rachel McAdams (supporting actress, Spotlight). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 49 From left, actress Margot Robbie, best actor nominee Eddie Redmayne (The Danish Girl) and actress Jennifer Garner. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times; Ethan Miller/Getty Images; Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) 12 / 49 People protest the all-white slate of acting Oscar nominees and lack of diversity in the industry near the 88th Academy Awards at Hollywood & Highland Center. (David McNew / AFP/Getty Images) 13 / 49 Taylor Kinney, left, and Lady Gaga (Jordan Strauss/Invision/Associated Press) 14 / 49 Director Ridley Scott and Giannina Facio, left, and supporting actor nominee Tom Hardy (The Revenant) with Charlotte Riley. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 15 / 49 Supporting actor nominee Tom Hardy (The Revenant) with actress Charlotte Riley. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 16 / 49 Best actress nominee Cate Blanchett (Carol). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 17 / 49 Nominees and former costars Kate Winslet (supporting actress, Steve Jobs) and Leonardo DiCaprio (best actor, The Revenant). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 18 / 49 Leonardo DiCaprio (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 19 / 49 Actor Christian Bale with wife Sibi Blazic. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times) 20 / 49 Reese Witherspoon (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 21 / 49 Model Heidi Klum (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 22 / 49 Model Chrissy Teigen and husband John Legend (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times) 23 / 49 Kerry Washington (Christopher Polk/Getty Images; Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) 24 / 49 Supporting actress winner Alicia Vikander (The Danish Girl). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 25 / 49 Naomi Watts, Olivia Munn, Priyanka Chopra (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP; Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP; Jason Merritt/Getty Images) 26 / 49 Cinematographer Ed Lachman, Spirit Award winner and Oscar nominee for Carol. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 27 / 49 Mindy Kaling (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 28 / 49 Jordans foreign-language nominee Theeb is represented by, from left, director Naji Abu Nowar and actors Jacir Eid and Hassan Mutlag Al-Maraiyeh. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 29 / 49 Sofia Vergara, costar of ABCs Modern Family, on the red carpet. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 30 / 49 Actor Byung-hun Lee. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 31 / 49 Governors Ball chef Wolfgang Puck. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 32 / 49 From left, model Heidi Klum, best actress nominee Saorise Ronan (Brooklyn) and last years supporting actress winner Patricia Arquette (Boyhood). (Left and right - Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times; center - Jason Merritt/Getty Images) 33 / 49 Rooms young actor Jacob Tremblay shares a stretch of red carpet with Modern Familys Sofia Vergara. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 34 / 49 Original song nominees Jimmy Napes, left, and Sam Smith (Writings on the Wall, Spectre). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 35 / 49 Nominated film editor Hank Corwin (The Big Short) and wife Nancy arrive at the 88th Academy Awards. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 36 / 49 Actor Orlando Jones during the arrivals. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 37 / 49 Tobias Lindholm, center, director of Denmarks foreign-language nominee A War, arrives with the films lead actor Pilou Asbk, right. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 38 / 49 Beasts of No Nation actor Abraham Attah. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 39 / 49 Morning show host and former NFL player Michael Strahan addresses the media on the red carpet. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 40 / 49 Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 41 / 49 Composer Carter Burwell, nominated for original score for Carol. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 42 / 49 Model Dorith Mous on the red carpet. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times) 43 / 49 Members of the nominated live-action short feature Shok arrive on the red carpet for the 88th Academy Awards. (Valerie Macon / AFP/Getty Images) 44 / 49 Sofia Vergara at the 88th Academy Awards. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 45 / 49 Beasts of No Nation costar Abraham Attah arrives at the 88th Academy Awards. (Jordan Strauss / Invision/AP) 46 / 49 Orlando Jones arrives for the 88th Academy Awards. (Frederic J. Brown / AFP/Getty Images) 47 / 49 TV personality Stephanie Bauer on the Oscars red carpet. (Jason Merritt / Getty Images) 48 / 49 TV personality Giuliana Rancic at the 88th Academy Awards. (Jason Merritt/Getty Images) 49 / 49 TV personality Maria Menounos at the 88th Academy Awards. ( Ethan Miller/Getty Images, left, Jason Merritt/Getty Images, right) Thank you for giving me the belief that anything can happen, she said, raising her statuette. Even though I would never have believed this. Vikanders Oscar win caps off a whirlwind year for the actress, who also appeared in four other films in 2015: Testament of Youth, The Man from U.N.C.L.E., Burnt and Ex Machina. She received particularly strong notices for her performance in the latter film, portraying a humanoid robot who seduces a young man with her artificial intelligence. OSCARS 2016: Red carpet arrivals | Best and worst dressed But adjusting to the spotlight has not been easy for Vikander, who admitted she finds it difficult to be understood in English even though she is proficient in the language. Its tough, she told The Times this fall. I try to be myself, but Im always nervous letting go. I am very serious about my work. But I think its a bit of a cultural thing too. Everyone thinks my English is so good. But with the language barrier, I often feel like I want to add that little extra flavor to what Im saying. Sometimes I wish people could hang out with me for 10 minutes when Im speaking Swedish. 1 / 54 The cast of Best Picture winner Spotlight takes a selfie backstage at the 88th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 54 Director Tom McCarthy with the Oscar for best picture, Spotlight. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 54 Actress Stacey Dash speaks onstage during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre on Feb. 28, 2016. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 4 / 54 Michael Keaton and the cast and producers of Spotlight celebrate after winning the Oscar for best picture. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 54 The production team and cast of Spotlight celebrate the award for best picture. (Mark Ralston / AFP/Getty Images) 6 / 54 Leonardo DiCaprio (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 54 Brie Larson (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 54 Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, winner of Best Director with Tom Hardy (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 9 / 54 Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 54 Lady Gaga performs (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 54 Lady Gaga and abuse survivors (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 12 / 54 Daisy Ridley and Dev Patel (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 13 / 54 Vice President Joe Biden (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 14 / 54 Director Laszlo Nemes (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 15 / 54 Chris Rock and Girl Scouts (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 16 / 54 Dave Grohl during the In Memoriam segment (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 17 / 54 Whoopi Goldberg (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 18 / 54 Kate Winslet and Reese Witherspoon (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 19 / 54 Kate Winslet and Reese Witherspoon (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 20 / 54 Chris Rock (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 21 / 54 Asif Kapadia and James Gay-Rees (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 22 / 54 Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 23 / 54 Louis C.K. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 24 / 54 Chris Rock (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 25 / 54 Mark Rylance (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 26 / 54 Mark Rylance thanks Steven Spielberg before accepting his Oscar for Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 27 / 54 Patricia Arquette (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 28 / 54 Filmmakers Pato Escala Pierart and Gabriel Osorio Vargas (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 29 / 54 The Weeknd performs (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 30 / 54 The Weeknd performs (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 31 / 54 The Weeknd performs (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 32 / 54 Jonas Rivera and Pete Docter (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 33 / 54 Girl Scouts sell cookies with Chris Rock (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 34 / 54 David White, right, and Mark Mangini (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 35 / 54 Marcos Taylor as Suge Knight (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 36 / 54 Rachel McAdams and Michael B. Jordan (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 37 / 54 Emmanuel Lubezki (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 38 / 54 Priyanka Chopra, left, and Liev Schreiber (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 39 / 54 Margaret Sixel (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 40 / 54 Chris Evans, right, and Chadwick Boseman (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 41 / 54 Benecio del Toro and Jennifer Garner (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 42 / 54 Elka Warden, Lesley Vanderwalt and Damian Martin (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 43 / 54 Presenters Margot Robbie and Jared Leto (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 44 / 54 Colin Gibson and Lisa Thompson (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 45 / 54 Cate Blanchett (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 46 / 54 Tina Fey and Steve Carell (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 47 / 54 CaJenny Beavan (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 48 / 54 Alicia Vikander (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 49 / 54 Adam McKay, front, and Charles Randolph with their Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 50 / 54 Sam Smith (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 51 / 54 Sarah Silverman (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 52 / 54 The Big Short, the anarchic, bracing broadside against Wall Street malfeasance, won the adapted screenplay Oscar at tonights 88th Academy Awards. The script was written by Charles Randolph and Adam McKay, who also directed. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 53 / 54 Emily Blunt and Charlize Theron (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 54 / 54 Chris Rock (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Vikander, who grew up in Gothenburg but now lives in London, has also recently made a name for herself in the fashion world as one of the faces of Louis Vuitton. She has made the rounds this awards season with her boyfriend, fellow Oscar-nominee Michael Fassbender. The two were seated next to each other at the Golden Globes last month, where Vikander lost out in the supporting actress category to Fassbenders Jobs co-star Kate Winslet. The couple is set to appear in a romance together this year, The Light Between Oceans. Vikander will also appear in the next Jason Bourne film. ALSO: Read Chris Rocks 2016 Oscars opening monologue Oscars 2016: Live updates from the Academy Awards with Chris Rock Oscar predictions: Whos going to win in all 24 categories Chris Rock had a tough gig Sunday night at the Oscars. A furor over the ceremonys lack of diversity among its acting nominees (all of those nominated were white) seemed to overshadow the excitement of the show itself going into the 88th Academy Awards. Rock, 51, wasted no time in addressing the so-called elephant in the room. OSCARS 2016: Full coverage | #OscarsSoWhite controversy | Red carpet fashion Advertisement Entering to the tune of Public Enemys Fight the Power, Rock called the evening the white peoples choice awards and made several jokes about the all-white slate of acting nominees: You realize, if they nominated hosts, I wouldnt even have this job. The audience, a whos who of Hollywood elite, reacted with somewhat nervous laughter during his opening monologue, offering a living example of how divisive and complex the issue of race in Hollywood and America has become. The academy sought equilibrium and perhaps a bit of healing by showcasing diversity among its presenters such as Michael B. Jordan and Kevin Hart. They also also dropped continual references, often funny, throughout the show regarding the exclusion of people of color in feature films and in the nominee choices. One skit in particular showed a fictional scenario where black actors filled the lead roles in films that were up for top prizes this year. Tracy Morgan wore a dress for The Danish Girl. Jeff Daniels considered leaving Chris Rock out in space for The Martian. But Rock also struck a more serious tone during his hosting gig when he asked for more opportunities for blacks, the same opportunities as white actors. Rock made race the center of his humor in his first Oscar stint in 2005. His opening monologue touched on the African American nominees that year, who included lead actor nominee Jamie Foxx (Ray) and supporting actor nominee Morgan Freeman (Million Dollar Baby). Its a great night tonight we have four black nominees tonight, he said. Its like the Def Oscar Jam (both Foxx and Freeman won). But this hosting round comes at a time when race is at the top of the national conversation. Rocks monologue drew praise from several celebrities in the Dolby Theatre, including winners and nominees. I thought it was really great, said Adam McKay, who won an Oscar for best original screenplay along with Charles Randolph for The Big Short. I thought it was jabbing at Hollywood and at the same time, even-handed. Alicia Vikander, who won a supporting actress Oscar for The Danish Girl, said backstage after winning her award that the comedian brought up a lot of laughs and reality issues [sic] and Im very happy hes the host tonight. Bryan Cranston, who was nominated for lead actor in Trumbo, gave Rock a big thumbs up. If you hire Chris Rock hes not going to pull punches. And thats a good thing, Cranston said as he took a break to sip some water during the show. He can illuminate the issue with humor in a way almost no one else can. Who else could do what he just did? But the praise was not unanimous. In his opening monologue, Rock asked why the Oscars were so controversial this year when the awards had historically paid little attention to blacks. Why we protesting? Thats the big question, why this Oscars? Pointing out that there were no protests in 1962 or 1963 when there were no black nominees, he said it was because we had real things to protest at the time. Too busy being raped and lynched to care about who won best cinematographer. Tweeted going Naked TV: Did Chris Rock just undermine what people of color are experiencing today by stating, back then people had real things to protest? Stephane Dunn tweeted, Blk people HAD real things to protest Rock? Ask Michael Brown, Sandra Bland, Eric Garner, if we still dont Some viewers also noted how Rock did not include minorities other than African Americans in his diversity comments. In turning the diversity controversy into a black and white issue, he appeared to ignore other people of color, including Asians, Latinos and Asian Americans. The issue also sparked the most befuddling and awkward comic bit of the evening when Rock, talking about changes the academy was making to increase diversity, introduced the new director of our minority outreach program...Stacey Dash! 1 / 54 The cast of Best Picture winner Spotlight takes a selfie backstage at the 88th Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 54 Director Tom McCarthy with the Oscar for best picture, Spotlight. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 54 Actress Stacey Dash speaks onstage during the 88th Annual Academy Awards at the Dolby Theatre on Feb. 28, 2016. (Kevin Winter / Getty Images) 4 / 54 Michael Keaton and the cast and producers of Spotlight celebrate after winning the Oscar for best picture. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 54 The production team and cast of Spotlight celebrate the award for best picture. (Mark Ralston / AFP/Getty Images) 6 / 54 Leonardo DiCaprio (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 54 Brie Larson (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 54 Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu, winner of Best Director with Tom Hardy (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 9 / 54 Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 54 Lady Gaga performs (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 54 Lady Gaga and abuse survivors (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 12 / 54 Daisy Ridley and Dev Patel (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 13 / 54 Vice President Joe Biden (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 14 / 54 Director Laszlo Nemes (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 15 / 54 Chris Rock and Girl Scouts (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 16 / 54 Dave Grohl during the In Memoriam segment (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 17 / 54 Whoopi Goldberg (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 18 / 54 Kate Winslet and Reese Witherspoon (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 19 / 54 Kate Winslet and Reese Witherspoon (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 20 / 54 Chris Rock (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 21 / 54 Asif Kapadia and James Gay-Rees (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 22 / 54 Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 23 / 54 Louis C.K. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 24 / 54 Chris Rock (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 25 / 54 Mark Rylance (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 26 / 54 Mark Rylance thanks Steven Spielberg before accepting his Oscar for Best Actor in a Supporting Role (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 27 / 54 Patricia Arquette (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 28 / 54 Filmmakers Pato Escala Pierart and Gabriel Osorio Vargas (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 29 / 54 The Weeknd performs (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 30 / 54 The Weeknd performs (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 31 / 54 The Weeknd performs (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 32 / 54 Jonas Rivera and Pete Docter (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 33 / 54 Girl Scouts sell cookies with Chris Rock (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 34 / 54 David White, right, and Mark Mangini (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 35 / 54 Marcos Taylor as Suge Knight (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 36 / 54 Rachel McAdams and Michael B. Jordan (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 37 / 54 Emmanuel Lubezki (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 38 / 54 Priyanka Chopra, left, and Liev Schreiber (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 39 / 54 Margaret Sixel (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 40 / 54 Chris Evans, right, and Chadwick Boseman (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 41 / 54 Benecio del Toro and Jennifer Garner (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 42 / 54 Elka Warden, Lesley Vanderwalt and Damian Martin (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 43 / 54 Presenters Margot Robbie and Jared Leto (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 44 / 54 Colin Gibson and Lisa Thompson (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 45 / 54 Cate Blanchett (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 46 / 54 Tina Fey and Steve Carell (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 47 / 54 CaJenny Beavan (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 48 / 54 Alicia Vikander (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 49 / 54 Adam McKay, front, and Charles Randolph with their Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 50 / 54 Sam Smith (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 51 / 54 Sarah Silverman (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 52 / 54 The Big Short, the anarchic, bracing broadside against Wall Street malfeasance, won the adapted screenplay Oscar at tonights 88th Academy Awards. The script was written by Charles Randolph and Adam McKay, who also directed. (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 53 / 54 Emily Blunt and Charlize Theron (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) 54 / 54 Chris Rock (Robert Gauthier / Los Angeles Times) Dash, whose most famous film credit was costarring in the 1996 teen comedy Clueless, has drawn attention during the last few years for lashing out at President Obama, black politicians, BET and the NAACP Image Awards. As a commentator for the conservative for Fox News, she made headlines last month when she said she wanted to eliminate Black History Month and BET. When Dash came out on stage, it was clear from the tepid response that many in the audience were clueless as to who she was. Their relative silence spoke volumes about the crowds awareness of the recent battles being waged in the media over race relations in the U.S. and over the Oscar nominees. I cannot wait to help my people out, announced Dash. Happy Black History Month. She then exited to little response. The evening ended with Rock inviting the audience to the BET Awards next summer, adding a final shout-out to #BlackLivesMatter. As the credits rolled, Public Enemys Fight the Power played again as a crowd of mainly white winners congratulated each other, and Rock, on stage. MORE: Transcript: Read Chris Rocks 2016 Oscars opening monologue Complete Oscars coverage: Live updates, fashion play-by-plays and real-time commentary Leonardo DiCaprio ties his work in The Revenant to a greater cause fighting climate change When Sylvester Stallone won the Golden Globe last month for playing Rocky Balboa in the Rocky reboot Creed, the ballroom erupted in cheers. The 69-year-old actor received a standing ovation that was long, loud and heartfelt. So why didnt Stallone win the supporting actor Oscar on Sunday? It could be a case where the academys small, serious East Coast contingent scored a win over its Hollywood counterparts. Advertisement OSCARS 2016: List of nominees | Red carpet arrivals | Best and worst dressed Mark Rylance, who won the Oscar for his subtle, superb turn as a Soviet agent in Bridge of Spies, is a well-respected theater actor. He owns three Tony Awards, winning for Boeing Boeing in 2008, Jerusalem in 2011 and Twelfth Night in 2014. He received rave reviews last year for playing Thomas Cromwell in the BBC Two miniseries Wolf Hall, earning an Emmy nomination. Rylance also served as the first artistic director of Shakespeares Globe in London, from 1995 to 2005. 1 / 22 Mark Rylance, left, Brie Larson, Leonardo DiCaprio and Alicia Vikander in the winners room. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 22 Songwriter Jimmy Napes, left, and singer Sam Smith won the original song Oscar for Writings on the Wall for the film Spectre. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 22 Brie Larson with her Oscar for lead actress for the film Room. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 22 Alejandro G. Inarritu with his Oscar for directing for the film The Revenant. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 22 Alicia Vikander won the supporting actress Oscar for her role in The Danish Girl. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 22 Leonardo DiCaprio with his lead actor Oscar for The Revenant. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 22 Production designers Colin Gibson and Lisa Thompson celebrate winning the production design Oscar for their work on Mad Max: Fury Road. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 22 Ennio Morricone, 87, won the Oscar for original score for The Hateful Eight. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 9 / 22 Hungarian director Laszlo Nemes won the Oscar for foreign language film for Son of Saul. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 22 Mark Rylance displays his Academy Award for his supporting role in Bridge of Spies. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 22 Directors James Gay-Rees, left, and Asif Kapadia take home an Academy Award for their documentary feature Amy about late singer-songwriter Amy Winehouse. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 12 / 22 Director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy holds her Oscar for documentary short subject. Her winning film, A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness, is about honor killings in Pakistan. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 13 / 22 Gabriel Osorio, left, and Pato Escala win the Academy Award for animated short film for their film Bear Story. Their win is the first win for their country, Chile. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 14 / 22 Emmanuel Lubezki wins the Academy Award for cinematography for this work in The Revenant. He is photographed with the presenter of the award, actress Rachel McAdams. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 15 / 22 Inside Out producer Jonas Rivera, left, and director Pete Docter take home the Oscar for animated feature. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 16 / 22 Margaret Sixel holds her Oscar for film editing for her work in Mad Max: Fury Road. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 17 / 22 The winning visual effects team for Ex Machina, from left, Mark Ardington, Paul Norris, Sara Bennett and Andrew Whitehurst. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 18 / 22 Winning Mad Max: Fury Road sound editors Mark Mangini, left, and David White, right, pose with actor Chris Evans, who presented the award. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 19 / 22 Mad Max: Fury Road makeup and hairstyling winners Damian Martin, second from left, Lesley Vanderwalt and Elka Wardega stand with the awards presenters, actors Margot Robbie and Jared Leto. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 20 / 22 Mad Max: Fury Road costume designer Jenny Beavan holds her Academy Award. She is photographed with Cate Blanchett, who presented the award. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 21 / 22 The Big Shorts writers Adam McKay, left, and writer Charles Randolph win the adapted screenplay category. McKay also directed the film. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) 22 / 22 Spotlight writers Josh Singer, left, and Tom McCarthy win for original screenplay. McCarthy also directed. (Marcus Yam / Los Angeles Times) In other words, the 56-year-old actor has an impeccable resume that appeals to those serious about their craft. Stallone, meanwhile, is seen more as a movie star than an actors actor. Academy members often expressed reservations about voting for him this year, saying he was essentially playing the same character in yet another Rocky movie. He did it quite well. But the degree of difficulty wasnt high. Rylance meanwhile used restraint and silence to great effect in his portrayal of a Soviet mole in Bridge of Spies, taking a character that could have been unsympathetic and turning it into one of the movie years most memorable movie creations. OSCARS 2016: Show highlights | Backstage | Winners room I try to avoid judging the characters I play, even an out-and-out bad guy like Richard III, Rylance told The Times in an October interview. I just try to figure out what they need and play that. I dont know exactly what he was doing. I didnt set out to make him charming. I think being charming was the last thing hed be concerned about. Backstage after accepting the Oscar, Rylance said he didnt take the win too seriously, noting the quality of his fellow nominees. I feel more like Im a spokesman when I win, Rylance said. 1 / 49 Jennifer Lawrence (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 49 The Martian actor Matt Damon (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 49 Actress Priyanka Chopra (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 49 Taylor Kinney, left, and Lady Gaga arrive at the Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles. (Jordan Strauss/Invision/Associated Press) 5 / 49 Titanic costars Leonardo DiCaprio and Kate Winslet reunite on the red carpet. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 49 Amy Poehler and Michael Keaton (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 49 Charlize Theron (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 49 The Weeknd and Common (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP; Angela Weissangela Weiss/AFP/Getty Images) 9 / 49 Oscar nominees Cate Blanchett (Carol) and Bryan Cranston (Trumbo). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 49 Oscar nominee Rachel McAdams (supporting actress, Spotlight). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 49 From left, actress Margot Robbie, best actor nominee Eddie Redmayne (The Danish Girl) and actress Jennifer Garner. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times; Ethan Miller/Getty Images; Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) 12 / 49 People protest the all-white slate of acting Oscar nominees and lack of diversity in the industry near the 88th Academy Awards at Hollywood & Highland Center. (David McNew / AFP/Getty Images) 13 / 49 Taylor Kinney, left, and Lady Gaga (Jordan Strauss/Invision/Associated Press) 14 / 49 Director Ridley Scott and Giannina Facio, left, and supporting actor nominee Tom Hardy (The Revenant) with Charlotte Riley. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 15 / 49 Supporting actor nominee Tom Hardy (The Revenant) with actress Charlotte Riley. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 16 / 49 Best actress nominee Cate Blanchett (Carol). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 17 / 49 Nominees and former costars Kate Winslet (supporting actress, Steve Jobs) and Leonardo DiCaprio (best actor, The Revenant). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 18 / 49 Leonardo DiCaprio (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 19 / 49 Actor Christian Bale with wife Sibi Blazic. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times) 20 / 49 Reese Witherspoon (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 21 / 49 Model Heidi Klum (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 22 / 49 Model Chrissy Teigen and husband John Legend (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times) 23 / 49 Kerry Washington (Christopher Polk/Getty Images; Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP) 24 / 49 Supporting actress winner Alicia Vikander (The Danish Girl). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 25 / 49 Naomi Watts, Olivia Munn, Priyanka Chopra (Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP; Jordan Strauss/Invision/AP; Jason Merritt/Getty Images) 26 / 49 Cinematographer Ed Lachman, Spirit Award winner and Oscar nominee for Carol. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 27 / 49 Mindy Kaling (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 28 / 49 Jordans foreign-language nominee Theeb is represented by, from left, director Naji Abu Nowar and actors Jacir Eid and Hassan Mutlag Al-Maraiyeh. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 29 / 49 Sofia Vergara, costar of ABCs Modern Family, on the red carpet. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 30 / 49 Actor Byung-hun Lee. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 31 / 49 Governors Ball chef Wolfgang Puck. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 32 / 49 From left, model Heidi Klum, best actress nominee Saorise Ronan (Brooklyn) and last years supporting actress winner Patricia Arquette (Boyhood). (Left and right - Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times; center - Jason Merritt/Getty Images) 33 / 49 Rooms young actor Jacob Tremblay shares a stretch of red carpet with Modern Familys Sofia Vergara. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 34 / 49 Original song nominees Jimmy Napes, left, and Sam Smith (Writings on the Wall, Spectre). (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 35 / 49 Nominated film editor Hank Corwin (The Big Short) and wife Nancy arrive at the 88th Academy Awards. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 36 / 49 Actor Orlando Jones during the arrivals. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 37 / 49 Tobias Lindholm, center, director of Denmarks foreign-language nominee A War, arrives with the films lead actor Pilou Asbk, right. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 38 / 49 Beasts of No Nation actor Abraham Attah. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 39 / 49 Morning show host and former NFL player Michael Strahan addresses the media on the red carpet. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 40 / 49 Good Morning America anchor Robin Roberts. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 41 / 49 Composer Carter Burwell, nominated for original score for Carol. (Jay L. Clendenin / Los Angeles Times) 42 / 49 Model Dorith Mous on the red carpet. (Mark Boster / Los Angeles Times) 43 / 49 Members of the nominated live-action short feature Shok arrive on the red carpet for the 88th Academy Awards. (Valerie Macon / AFP/Getty Images) 44 / 49 Sofia Vergara at the 88th Academy Awards. (Allen J. Schaben / Los Angeles Times) 45 / 49 Beasts of No Nation costar Abraham Attah arrives at the 88th Academy Awards. (Jordan Strauss / Invision/AP) 46 / 49 Orlando Jones arrives for the 88th Academy Awards. (Frederic J. Brown / AFP/Getty Images) 47 / 49 TV personality Stephanie Bauer on the Oscars red carpet. (Jason Merritt / Getty Images) 48 / 49 TV personality Giuliana Rancic at the 88th Academy Awards. (Jason Merritt/Getty Images) 49 / 49 TV personality Maria Menounos at the 88th Academy Awards. ( Ethan Miller/Getty Images, left, Jason Merritt/Getty Images, right) Not that he wasnt savoring the victory and the glamour of a trip from New York to Hollywood for the Oscars. Its very exciting. You feel very grand being driven from a small theater in Brooklyn in a black car and then flown in this incredibly powerful jet with big windows. Its a trippy experience, he said. And then you arrive here and have so many people you dont know say nice things to you. I quite recommend it. Times staff writers Jessica Gelt and Rebecca Keegan contributed to this report. ALSO: Chris Rock was right, this year the Oscars really were a little different Leonardo DiCaprio ties his work in The Revenant to a greater cause -- fighting climate change Alicia Vikanders supporting actress Oscar caps off a whirlwind year We are left with much to ponder after the 88th-89th Academy Awards on Sunday night, a show so long that it officially qualifies as two telecasts. Among the things we have to chat about a day later: Whats with The Weeknds hair, and does it require implants? Is it some sort of flotation device? Looks to me like a giant canoe. If that robot skit were any worse, the LAPD wouldve called out the bomb squad. Same goes for Stacey Dash, a C-list actress and political commentator whom no one even knows. Even if you did recognize Dash, her line was not audacious enough to be funny. Yet, here we are talking about it. Tonally, host Chris Rock nailed the opening. Without being militant, and while remaining upbeat, he made his points. It didnt kill. The audience looked appropriately squirmy. Id give the monologue a B-plus and his performance for the evening a B-minus. The writing was generally terrible (see robot skit and Stacey Dash). Id give it a D-minus. Yeah, OK, Tracy Morgan was hilarious and shouldve been part of a bigger bit. The normalization of Lady Gaga continues. She hardly seems weird at all anymore. In fact, shes so conventional, she makes me feel weird. And Im about as weird as a bowl of milk. Olivia Munn must be the least funny person on the planet. Or any planet. I no longer like white people. I used to be OK with white people, but now I see how horrible we all really are. Next awards, they ought to let the Minions host. Cate Blanchett seems our most-actorly actor. By that I mean there might be a missing Oscar statuette stuck somewhere. Hollywood continues to celebrate innovation over imagination, and storytelling has suffered at the hands of the digital wizards. More than anything in life, I want to see actors and actresses happy. So I want to see an Academy Awards show that does justice to their strange and glorious careers. By the way, heres a tip: Writing and performing are so much about surprise. Sundays awards show had little surprise, other than Dashs bizarre appearance, and that silly, drawn-out bit with the Girl Scout cookies. Morgans Danish Girl was one of the few laugh-out-loud moments. You have to be leery of any awards show in which Sarah Silverman isnt even funny. Usually, Silverman sneezes and I laugh. Advertisement Louis C.K. was very funny, with his whole This Oscar is going home in a Honda Civic, then repulsive with: Its going to give them anxiety to keep it in their crappy apartment. Have you ever hated elitest Hollywood more than at that moment? Its the folks in the crappy apartments who give C.K. a career. If it wasnt for them, hed be working the weekend shift at some tire store in Pacoima. And living in a crappy apartment, counting quarters to see if he could do laundry that week. Props to young Brie Larson as the only winner of the night gracious enough to directly thank movie fans. And how come no one in Hollywood can give a speech anymore? Mark Rylance gave one of the few notable acceptances for best supporting actor, then the orchestra cut him off. Obviously, notable speeches are to be a discouraged. Loved what Pete Docter had to say about the benefits of a creative life: Anyone out there in junior high school or high school working it out, there are days youre going to feel sad ... but you can make stuff -- make films, draw, write -- itll make a world of difference. In the end, Sundays Academy Awards likely left many Americans with this sentiment: Oh, you spoiled, indulgent children. You seem a bunch of fretful crybabies. Quit belly-aching about the social justice behind the awards you give to overpaid actors. Just make some movies we all really love. ... Make films, draw, write. For us, thatd make a world of difference. Twitter: @erskinetimes ALSO: Oscars 2016 updates: Upsets and surprises as Leo wins, Rocky loses, and Spotlight walks away with gold Howd Chris Rock do? Critics (mostly) liked his Oscars performance Chris Rock handled the Oscars diversity issue as only Chris Rock could Three reasons why Spotlight walked away with the Oscar for best picture Chris Rocks walk-on song, Stacey Dashs awkward wave: Here are the nights more memorable moments The makeup trailer for Marvels Agent Carter is unpleasantly warm as three beauty pros buzz around the tight space with a frenetic but precise energy. In the eye of the storm sits Wynn Everett, looking like a life-sized porcelain doll, the type your grandmother let you admire but never play with. Her blond curls are immaculate, her lips scarlet and her eyes wide, the same clear blue as the afternoons Southern California sky. Then the makeup artists descend. But instead of enhancing her perfect creamy complexion, their tools produce an unsettling fissure. Advertisement See more of Entertainments top stories on Facebook >> The crack is deep and dark, spider-webbing from just below Everetts hairline to her jaw, as though revealing a darkness that lurks deep. All seems lost until the actress glances at a visitor in the mirror and cracks a wide, warm smile, saying, When my daughters first saw me, they said, Mommy has a sticker! That sticker is present because Everetts character, the villainous Whitney Frost, had come into contact early in the ABC shows second season with Zero Matter, an extra-dimensional energy that seems to corrupt her over time and grants her the ability to absorb any living thing she touches. In the Marvel-created series, Frost is a physicist and actress a strong and complicated composite of her time. Frost possesses beauty and a brilliant mind, but her value to society is measured by her looks, not her contributions to science. If that sounds familiar, it should. Frost is the Agent Carter version of a Marvel character better known as Madame Masque, who made her debut in 1968 and pulls much of her back story from the biography of Hollywood beauty Hedy Lamarr. (With George Antheil, Lamarr invented a frequency-hopping spread-spectrum technology that laid the groundwork for current Wi-Fi and Bluetooth technology.) The character description said she was based on Hedy Lamarr, so I did a lot of research, Everett says from her makeup chair where she logs a lot of time, thanks to her characters increasingly aggravated skin condition. "[Lamarr] was unbelievable. Coming from Austria, wanting to be known for her scientific mind but being an acclaimed actress. 1 / 13 Hayley Atwell as Peggy Carter. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 2 / 13 The Marvels Agent Carter series features character Peggy Carter. Hayley Atwell, reprising her role from the film series, gets a lipstick touch-up between takes. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 3 / 13 Hayley Atwell and James DArcy at the Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 4 / 13 Hayley Atwell (Peggy Carter) and James DArcy (Edwin Jarvis) on location at the Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills. Carter must balance doing administrative work and going on secret missions for Howard Stark while trying to navigate life as a single woman in 1940s America. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 5 / 13 Actor Enver Gjokaj, left, executive producer Louis DEsposito and actor Chad Michael Murray. [For the Record, Jan. 2, 1:46 p.m.: A previous version of this caption misidentified actor Chad Michael Murray as Costa Ronin.] (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 6 / 13 Enver Gjokaj, left, and Chad Michael Murray. [For the Record, Jan. 2, 1:46 p.m.: A previous version of this caption misidentified actor Chad Michael Murray as Costa Ronin.] (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 7 / 13 James DArcy as Edwin Jarvis. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 8 / 13 Enver Gjokaj, left, Chad Michael Murray and James DArcy. [For the Record, Jan. 2, 1:46 p.m.: A previous version of this caption misidentified actor Chad Michael Murray as Costa Ronin.] (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 9 / 13 Hayley Atwell and James DArcy. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 10 / 13 Director of photography Gabriel Beristain, left, and executive producer Louis DEsposito on the set. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 11 / 13 Enver Gjokaj as Sousa. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 12 / 13 At the Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) 13 / 13 A slate marks a scene. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times) This seeming contradiction of elements, the beautiful actress who wishes to spend her life in science, is a perfect fit for the world of Agent Carter, which has always been fascinated with the push-pull of what it is to be a woman dealing with the expectations of a critical society. And all of this makes her the perfect foil for Agent Peggy Carter, played by the effervescent Hayley Atwell. As the shows second season comes to an end Tuesday night, Atwells Carter has been fighting post-World War II threats and Madame Masque in Los Angeles after being uprooted from Season 1s New York location. Much of the productions throwback charm is built into the 1940s setting of the show, which centers on Carter, whom audiences first met in Captain America: The First Avenger, and a supporting cast of characters who share Carters passion for protecting the world from danger. Part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Agent Carter contains plots that tie directly into the larger narrative presented in Marvels Captain America: Winter Soldier, The Avengers as well as Marvel television shows, including Marvel: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. But for fans of the world of Agent Carter, much of the fun has been in watching Carter and Frost, two strong female adversaries who sometimes meet resistance in the world they inhabit because of their gender or appearance. Both find ways to work within the system as best they can. For Frost, that means depending on her husband to further her scientific work; for Carter, it means barreling through the obstacles that try to contain her. Shes very stubborn, Atwell says, when asked what continues to surprise her about the Carter character. But she is also tenacious. Its quite an extraordinary thing because her superpower is self-acceptance. Shes not intimidated by people who seemingly have more than her. Everetts Frost has a similar strength. A lot of what Whitney goes through is very complex, Everett says. She really does have a heart that wants justice, but she goes about it through very unjust means. Agent Carter also has the distinction of being the first Marvel Cinematic Universe property to be led by a woman. And its the only Marvel television series that also plays as a period piece. Despite its uniqueness, Agent Carter struggles to find an audience. Marvel declines to comment on the shows future, but rumors of Atwells joining an upcoming ABC drama pilot make it seem as though the series days may be numbered. If true, that would be a shame. There is something immediately timeless about Agent Carter and its transportation of characters from various eras into a single 1940s timeline, the way it spotlights the modern struggles of feminism within the confines of the past, and the way it blends the enduring craft of makeup with the evolving skill of visual effects into a product that best meets its needs. Perhaps this isnt the end of days for Agent Carter, but should the worst come to pass, Peggy Carter and Whitney Frost will remain as savvy, strong television, dames as immutable as any shining star of Hollywoods Golden Age. ------------------------ Marvels Agent Carter Where: ABC When: 9 p.m. Tuesday Rating: TV-PG-LV (may be unsuitable for young children with advisories for coarse language and violence) About 20 protesters who rallied against sexual abuse in the Catholic church in downtown Los Angeles were joined by Spotlight actor Mark Ruffalo, the films director Tom McCarthy and its writer Josh Singer on Sunday. Protesters, many of whom identify as victims of abuse by Catholic priests, marched and brandished banners outside the Cathedral of Our Lady of Angels Sunday morning. Ruffalo, Singer and McCarthy, who were invited by the group to appear, joined them in calling on the church to take greater action against sexual abuse and release the names of known abusers. Advertisement OSCARS 2016: Full coverage | List of nominees The Spotlight creators each held a section of a banner printed with the victims childhood photos and addressed the protesters before heading to pre-Oscar parties and the red carpet. Im here to stand with the survivors and the victims and the people weve lost from Catholic priest childhood sex abuse, Ruffalo told protesters. The protest, organized by the group Survivors Network of those Abused by Priests, was one of 20 rallies Sunday urging greater transparency at Catholic cathedrals across the nation, said Barbara Blaine, the president and founder of the group. Organizers wanted to use the Academy Awards, which takes place Sunday night, was a way to draw attention to their cause, Blaine said. We wanted to use this moment with all of the attention on the movie Spotlight because that movie tells our stories and gets it right. Every Catholic should see this film, said Blaine, who identifies as a former victim of sexual abuse by a Catholic priest. Spotlight, a film chronicling the Boston Globes investigation into sexual abuse by priests in the Catholic Church, is nominated for six Oscars, including best picture and best supporting actor for Ruffalo. frank.shyong@latimes.com Twitter: @frankshyong ALSO Live updates: Stars begin to arrive for the Oscars red carpet Academy Awards: #OscarsSoWhite protests planned nationally; Al Sharpton in L.A. What time are the Oscars? Everything you need to know As established over the last few months of #OscarsSoWhite coverage and controversy, Hollywood diversity is an issue that inspires much passion within the entertainment industry and beyond. But matters of diversity arent a trending topic, theyre a conversation thats been going on for decades. Even in Hollywood. Even at the Oscars. At the 49th Academy Awards held in 1977, 39 years ago, Richard Pryor (after a seven-minute interpretive song-and-dance number by Ann-Margret) opened the Oscars with a searing monologue that lampooned the lack of African American representation at the awards while a primarily white audience nervously tittered. Advertisement (Pryors remarks start at 7:40 below) Pryor joked, This show is going out to 75 million people. None of them are black. We dont even know how to vote. Theres 3,349 people in the voting thing. And only two black people. Sidney Poitier and Harry Belafonte. In 1988, 11 years after Pryors monologue, the academy invited Eddie Murphy, one of the biggest box-office stars of the decade, to award the ceremonys crown jewel, best picture. But before Murphy got down to business, he went off book and told the story of how he originally wanted to turn down the offer from the academy. (Murphys remarks begin at 7:50 below) Watch a timelapse of the red carpet with some of our signature photos slipped in. Murphy said he told his manager, Im not going because they havent recognized black people in the motion picture industry. He went on to detail the back-and-forth between him and his manager, even going so far as to quip, Ill probably never win an Oscar for saying this (and he hasnt) before ultimately saying, Black people will not ride the caboose of society. We will not bring up the rear anymore and I want you to recognize us. Nearly 40 years after Pryor made cracks about the lack of black voters in the academy, the reality isnt much more promising. In an update to the expansive study undertaken in 2012, the L.A.Times determined this year that the academy remains 91% white, diversifying just 3% in the last four years. Its an issue that academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs and the board of governors are taking action on, announcing an initiative that aims to double the number of women and diverse members of the academy by 2020. Hollywoods diversity problems are nothing new, and the Oscars are merely another obvious representation of them, but this same conversation has existed for years with little traction. Its clear that to make lasting change to the Hollywood landscape, its going to take less talk and more action. Follow me @midwestspitfire Food and medical supplies are in short supply at the Alexandria Safe-Zone. But the enclaves abundance of weapons, ammunition and seasoned fighters prove a powerful bargaining chip on Knots Untie, Episode 611 of AMCs The Walking Dead. Paul, a.k.a. Jesus (Tom Payne), from the Hilltop Colony got off to a bad start with Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) and Daryl Dixon (Norman Reedus) in the previous episode by hijacking their truck containing a precious load of provisions. See more of Entertainments top stories on Facebook >> Advertisement Jesus was knocked unconscious in an ensuing brawl as the truck slowly sank in a lake. Now hes playing nice. Youre good people and this is a good place, says Jesus, whose duties include searching for settlements that could serve as trading partners during the zombie apocalypse. I think our communities may be in a position to help each other. Wait, Maggie Greene (Lauren Cohan) interrupts. Youre looking for more settlements? You mean youre already trading with other groups? Your worlds about to get a whole lot bigger, Jesus says with a smile. To prove hes telling the truth, Jesus leads Maggie, her husband, Glenn Rhee (Steven Yeun), Abraham Ford (Michael Cudlitz), Daryl, Rick and his new lover, Michonne (Danai Gurira), to the colony. Near the end of the daylong journey, they come across an overturned vehicle with undead walkers trapped inside. If this is a trick, Rick warns Jesus, it wont end well for you. No trick, but its an opportunity for the Alexandrians to demonstrate their zombie-whacking skills while rescuing Dr. Harlan Carson (R. Keith Harris) and three other crash survivors. Since Harlan is an obstetrician with pre-natal vitamins and ultrasound equipment, Glenn and pregnant Maggie have a reason to celebrate. Id say you two just hit the jackpot, Harlan exclaims. When they arrive at the colony, the Alexandrians are amazed to see a living history museum highlighted by Barrington House, a colonial mansion with opulent furnishings and strategic 360-degree view of the surrounding terrain. At Ricks insistence, Maggie attempts to negotiate a deal with Gregory (Xander Berkeley), Hilltops prickly, lascivious leader. But hes only interested in Maggie as a sex partner, not a trading partner. Maggie sternly rejects Gregorys advances. We can help each other, Maggie offers. Were doing fine, Gregory haughtily replies. Are you? Hilltops peaceful facade is soon shattered when several residents return with a message from Negan (Jeffrey Dean Morgan), the brutal leader of the Saviors gang. Negan will release a hostage, supposedly, if Gregory dies. And Gregory almost does die when hes stabbed in the gut by Ethan (Justin Kucsulain), the hostages brother. Now Rick jumps in to save Gregory by slitting Ethans throat. You need to know that things arent as simple as they might seem, Jesus tells the Alexandrians. Because shortly after the walls went up at Hilltop, Negan and his heavily armed thugs arrived and demanded half the supplies, crops and livestock. And what do the spear-toting colonists receive from Negans men? They dont attack this place, Jesus explains. They dont kill us. Macho Abraham isnt intimidated by the Saviors, however, bragging that some of them were left in pieces and puddles when Daryl fired his rocket-propelled grenade launcher. Confrontations never been something weve had trouble with, Rick adds. When Maggie reboots negotiations with Gregory, she suddenly enjoys the upper hand. Half, she demands, half of what you have. In exchange, Rick and his crew will slaughter the Saviors and retrieve the hostage. Without ammo, without fighters, youd be a dead man, Maggie cautions. So half of everything you have, right now, or the deals off. Congratulations, Gregory sarcastically says. You have yourself a deal. ALSO: iZombie recap: Telling fish tales in The Whopper Arrows aptly named Code of Silence leaves little to talk about Better Call Saul recap: Boring corporate law? Jimmy prefers wild side Good morning. It is Monday, Feb. 29. The Los Angeles Zoo is home to four new zebras. The animals havent been named yet. You may want to bring along some tissues. Heres what else is happening in the Golden State: TOP STORIES Murder charges Advertisement State prosecutors have taken the unlikely step of pursuing a murder charge against a Murrieta rehabilitation center and four of its employees for the 2010 death of a patient. At a recent hearing, however, a Riverside County judge said that while the circumstances of Gary Benefields death were troubling to say the least, she wasnt sure they amounted to murder. To prove the corporation guilty, prosecutors have to show that its employees, acting in the scope of their duties, knowingly acted in ways that endangered Benefields life, legal experts said. Los Angeles Times Police evidence Its not just the FBI that wants to get into suspects iPhones -- local police want help too. In L.A. County, sheriffs deputies have 150 phones unopened phones in evidence lockers. The LAPD has 300, and in Sacramento, the sheriff has 90. Several California law enforcement agencies said they were told by Apple the company didnt have the means to unlock phones. Los Angeles Times For sale Porter Ranch residents are moving home now that the Aliso Canyon gas leak has been capped, but there is a lingering fear: Whats become of their property values? So far, there hasnt been much of a change since the gas leak began last fall, but real estate experts say only time will tell if the master-planned community continues to be attractive to buyers. Its an unsettling feeling to not know whether its safe or not safe, said one homeowner trying to sell her property. Los Angeles Times And the Oscar goes to ... One of the most controversial awards seasons in Hollywood history came to a close Sunday with the presentation of the Oscars at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. The newsroom drama Spotlight took home the top prize for best picture, and Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Academy Award. But everyone was talking about Chris Rocks performance as host and his take on #OscarsSoWhite. Los Angeles Times DROUGHT AND CLIMATE Conflicting laws: The Santa Ana sucker fish is in danger, and the federal Endangered Species Act and the Clean Water Act are making is difficult to save them. As a result, were forced to decide which enforcement agency we can afford to offend worse, Fish and Wildlife or the Regional Water Quality Control Board, which could have us indicted, handcuffed and sent to jail, said Stacey Aldstadt, general manager of the San Bernardino Municipal Water District. Los Angeles Times L.A. AT LARGE New heights: The new Wilshire Grand tower is about to reach 1,100 feet tall. The structural steel that makes up the top of the skyscraper is scheduled for completion March 8. The Wilshire Grand is so very close to topping out, which is always considered a milestone in any towers construction timeline but especially exciting for LAs new tallest skyscraper. DTLA Rising Hop on: Bike-sharing is coming to Venice. Santa Monicas Breeze system is expected to expand to its beachside neighbor. A separate bike-sharing system is expected to launch in downtown L.A. later this year. Curbed LA Legend passes: The first president of Disneyland, Jack Lindquist, has died at age 88. He was inducted as as Disney Legend in 1994. Orange County Register Gun rights: Two legal cases have softened gun control regulations in Torrance. The city has also begun issuing concealed-weapons permits. This action puts Torrance with a number of other cities in the tip of this national discussion about the right to bear arms, said attorney Chuck Michel, who represents the National Rifle Assn. Daily Breeze POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT Political sideshow: Saying Donald Trumps name in East Los Angeles will get you quite the reaction, writes columnist Steve Lopez. As I roamed the Eastside, stopping by restaurants and shops, I found more disappointment than surprise among Latinos whove been following the presidential campaign and the spectacle of Trumps candidacy, he writes. Los Angeles Times Helping the GOP: Columnist Cathleen Decker finds a Donald Trump presidency could have a mixed effect in California, particularly the Central Valley. With the Donald, one of the positives is he is able to reach out and connect, he is able to reach out to a blue class worker. In the Central Valley, thats a farmer. In the city of Stockton, its someone who works in a factory every day, said strategist Lee Neves. Los Angeles Times Senate race: State Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris was endorsed by the state Democratic Party this weekend in her campaign for the U.S. Senate. The endorsement could mean more money and support for the June 7 primary. Los Angeles Times Student debt: A lawsuit filed in San Diego federal court alleges students paid as much as $35,000 to learn Donald Trumps real estate secrets and instead basically received a bunch of infomercials. The lawsuit alleges that the for-profit universitys promises that advanced students could make tens of thousands of dollars each month were bogus, and that the school instead left many in debt. Los Angeles Times Its a boy: Lt. Gov. Gavin Newsom and his wife welcomed their fourth child Friday, a boy named Dutch William Siebel Newsom. The baby is named after the town of Dutch Flat, a semi-ghost town where Newsom spent time as a youth. SFist CRIME AND COURTS Police actions: Anaheim police are reviewing their actions at a Ku Klux Klan rally this weekend that left three people with stab wounds. Thirteen people were also arrested. We had individuals who specifically came there to commit acts of violence, and there is nothing to do to stop that, said Sgt. Daron Wyatt. Los Angeles Times Violent spike: Santa Ana is averaging a shooting a day. People call it an anomaly, which has left five people dead and many others injured, including a police officer. There are many theories about whats behind the spike in violence: More relaxed laws put more criminals on the streets, while a recession-reduced city budget put higher pressure on a smaller police force. Orange County Register Deadly crash: Street racing is to blame for a crash on the 5 Freeway that left three people dead. The driver of one of the cars alleged to be racing, Dealio Lockhart, was arrested at the scene and is expected to face charges of vehicular manslaughter. Four other people were injured in the collision early Saturday and taken to the hospital in critical condition. Los Angeles Times CALIFORNIA CULTURE Funding start-ups: It may seem like Silicon Valley produces overnight sensations, but the truth is something different -- its an area that produces lots of businesses youve never heard of because they never got off the ground. There is this delusion that its easy to raise money in Silicon Valley. Raising money is incredibly hard, said Sam Altman, president of Y Combinator, a mentorship and investment program for start-ups. New York Times Fighting addiction: After his son died in a Los Angeles halfway house, Gary Mendell dedicated his life to taking on opioid addiction. We spend tens of billions of dollars on prescription painkillers, and Mendell travels the country, lobbying for ways to reduce drug abuse, writes Dan Morain. Sacramento Bee Hollywood diversity: Latinos are the countrys largest minority group, and yet theyre rarely found on the big or small screen. Latinos have a particularly hard time getting even the kinds of cliched supporting roles that have become commonplace for black actors the wise or wisecracking, sometimes magical guides for white protagonists. Los Angeles Times Pop a tent: Get your campsite reservations tomorrow morning. Spots at Point Reyes National Seashore in Marin, trail camps in the Santa Cruz Mountains and national forests in the Sierra Nevada will be up for grabs beginning at 7 a.m. SF Gate CALIFORNIA ALMANAC San Diego will start with some fog before the sun comes out and highs reach 74 degrees. Los Angeles fog will give way to sun as temperatures reach 79. In Riverside, it will be sunny with a high of 85. Sacramento will be sunny and 72. San Francisco will be mostly sunny and 68. AND FINALLY This weeks birthdays for notable Californians: Rep. Ami Bera (March 2, 1965), Rep. Paul Cook (March 3, 1943), Board of Equalization member Fiona Ma (March 4, 1966) and director Rob Reiner (March 6, 1947). Please let us know what we can do to make this newsletter more useful to you. Send comments, complaints and ideas to Alice Walton or Shelby Grad. The four-story building at Western and Olympic was meant to pull Korean Americans together as a community. But in recent years it has become a battleground. Lawsuits fly back and forth, and alternating waves of armed guards and locksmiths sneak in to lop off chains and drill through locks adversaries installed. When things got really bad just over a year ago, angry men repeatedly squared off in hallway shouting matches. Advertisement It was crazy, says LAPD Officer Harry Cho. It was a big to-do. See more of our top stories on Facebook >> For a while, he says, he was rolling to the site almost daily to mediate as factions warred over who was really in charge of the foundation that owns and runs the Korean American Community Center. The center opened in 1975. Leaders of the Korean American Federation of Los Angeles, which represents Korean American interests in the city, cobbled together $10, $20 and $100 donations and received financial help from the South Korean government. They wanted a gathering place, a home for the fledgling Korean American community here. With the purchase made, the group created the Korean American United Foundation to maintain the building and insulate community-oriented activities from the federations frequent political skirmishes. At the centers dedication, speakers got choked up announcing a home of our own in the heart of L.A. Now that source of pride spurs irritation as two warring factions claim to be the rightful caretaker of a property that generates hundreds of thousands of dollars annually in rental income and advertising fees from the two large billboards on its roof and on a wall. About the only thing both sides can agree on is that much of that income, which is supposed to fund grants to help the Korean American community, is going instead to lawyers on either side. The skirmish began in 2014 when the foundations board chairman, Seung Chun Lim, was killed in a car accident. The vice chairman, Sung Woong Kim, argued at an ensuing board meeting that he should take over and serve the remainder of Lims term. Another board member, Sung Hoon Yoon, thought they should elect a new leader. According to court papers filed in the case, when the discussion got heated, Kim declared the meeting adjourned and walked out, followed by supporters. The remaining board members held their own election and declared Yoon the new chairman. The fighting hasnt stopped, with each side accusing the other of being an impostor and of misappropriating foundation money. Yoon has sued Kim, saying he falsely represented himself as the foundations board chairman. Another member has sued Yoon, accusing him of faking his signature to take power. The version of the foundation that Kim took over has sued Yoon, alleging he defrauded the organization. And James Ahn, president of the Korean American Federation and a foundation board member largely aligned with Kim, has obtained a restraining order against Yoon, preventing him from entering the building. He has alleged that his adversary had shown up with firearms and threatened violence. Yoon, who owns a liquor store, says he was armed only because he had just left work at his store, where he is licensed as a private security guard. Toward the end of 2014, Yoon obtained a preliminary injunction against Kim, preventing him from acting as board chairman, then went to the building at midnight. Under his supervision, two security guards and a locksmith cut through the bolt on the main gates and changed the locks for the foundation office. Yoon stood guard through the night, but his occupation lasted less than 24 hours. Yoon says he finally left after the squabbling parties and their lawyers agreed that they would work out their differences. Instead, he returned to find the locks changed once more, he says. Yoon has since installed his own board of directors and changed the address of the foundation to a post office box, collecting checks from the billboard advertisements at the center. The rent checks from the tenants have been going to Ahns faction. Im going to fight this till the end, Yoon said. I cant let the buildings go to those people. For his part, Ahn, a real estate businessman who also runs a mortuary, has alleged in court that Yoon has drained hundreds of thousands of dollars from the foundations accounts. He said he is fighting to keep Yoon from controlling the community center. Its so upsetting, he said. This building is symbolic for us Korean Americans. Yoon, he alleged in court papers, will stop at nothing to loot [the foundations] property and assets for his personal benefit and gain. At a hearing this month, a judge scheduled a status conference on the legal fight for April. James Kropff, an attorney for Yoon, asked the judge to dismiss the restraining order preventing his client from entering the building, saying it would be the first step in making sense of this mess. Its really a tragic situation for the Korean community, said Pyong Yong Min, a longtime Koreatown journalist who has written about the history of Korean immigrants in the U.S. Theyre each saying, Its mine, no, its mine. Im the chairman, no, Im the chairman. The battle is particularly disturbing to some of the people who supported the original purchase. See-myun Kymm, 80, who made his fortune by importing and selling wigs, says he donated $20,000 to the center. Its become a fight about the money, not the original meaning and spirit of why we established the place, he said. Im so sick of those people. victoria.kim@latimes.com ALSO Murder charges against rehab center are a first in California No one knows whats behind L.A. Countys rise in mental competency cases A threat ahead: California Democrats losing the fight for younger voters The morning calendar in Department 95 was busy, as usual. Housed in a nondescript brick building on an industrial stretch of San Fernando Road in Cypress Park, the courtroom handles mental health cases for Los Angeles County Superior Court. On a recent Thursday, the roughly 70 defendants set to appear included a homeless man charged with violations related to camping in a Beverly Hills park; a woman accused of embezzling money from an elderly acquaintance; and a woman charged with felony battery on a police officer. She was accused of kicking an officer who had tried to remove her from the Pasadena library. These defendants, like most on the docket, had been sent to Department 95 to determine whether they were too mentally ill to stand trial. Advertisement See more of our top stories on Facebook >> Many had been driven from jail to the court by sheriffs deputies that morning, but the homeless man in the Beverly Hills case had made his way across town on the bus, toting trash bags full of his belongings. In the hallway, the public defender assigned to the case introduced himself and asked the man if he had a history of mental health issues. The client said no. His problem, he said, was that the CIA was tracking him. At his hearing, the court found him incompetent to stand trial and ordered him to go into treatment through an outpatient program. More and more cases like these are landing in Department 95, and its not clear why. Competency cases increased by nearly 50% from 2014 to last year. Between 2010 and 2015, the annual total ballooned from 944 to 3,528. L.A. County Superior Court does not compile detailed data on what types of criminal cases wind up in mental health court. Attorneys, judges, doctors and law enforcement officials say they can only guess why the caseload is growing. Dist. Atty. Jackie Lacey, who led a task force focused on diverting mentally ill people from county jails, could not say what is driving the increase. But she said, I think its a sign that we urgently need to embrace the mental health diversion program. Defense attorneys who believe their clients are too mentally ill to understand the proceedings against them or to help in their own defense can request a competency hearing. Once that happens, all misdemeanor and most felony cases are referred to Department 95. Doctors are assigned to evaluate the defendant and give an opinion on their fitness to stand trial. A defendant found incompetent must undergo treatment to restore competency before criminal proceedings can proceed. For felony defendants, that usually means going to a state hospital. Misdemeanor defendants are treated in jail or through a new county program that places them in hospitals, residential facilities or outpatient programs. Kristen Ochoa, a psychiatrist who evaluates defendants for competency and runs the countys new treatment program for misdemeanor defendants, said she doesnt know why the caseload is soaring. But she said it doesnt appear to stem from an increase in people faking mental illness to get out of criminal charges. What Ive been seeing is people who really have serious mental disorders, she said. If anything, I feel that the cases have been people who are more impaired than usual. Some officials attribute the increase to criminal justice reform measures that have reduced the states prison population, to the growing number of homeless residents in the county, or to shortfalls in the mental health system. Verah Bradford, head deputy public defender at the mental health court, said a convergence of issues was probably at play, including increasing awareness about mental illness among attorneys and judges and the rise in homelessness. Is it because more people are mentally ill or is it because more people are jammed into homelessness and commit behaviors that offend the public? she said. A Times review of 98 recent competency cases involving 72 defendants showed a variety of charges, including petty theft, attempted murder and sexual abuse of a child. The most common charges were related to trespassing, drug crimes, simple battery and vandalism. Mark Gale, criminal justice chairman for the L.A. County Council of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, said he thinks the shortage of long-term care facilities for the severely mentally ill is at the heart of the increase. I bet if you were to look at the histories of these people, theyre revolving through the hospitals in short-term emergency stays, Gale said. Theyre getting warehoused, shot up with meds and then released without a discharge plan. Others say the increase is a sign that attorneys and judges are becoming more aware of mental illness. I think were all realizing that all of us would be better off if the mentally ill receive treatment, said Jonathan Petrak, a public defender at the mental health courthouse. Theyll be safer, society will be safer, and it will make for a healthier community. Whatever the reason, the increase is testing the courts resources and causing some defendants to spend more time in jail. On any given morning, several defendants are likely to miss their court dates in Department 95 because of a lack of space in the courthouse holding cells. Many return to jail until the next available court date. I have seen defendants miss court for three or four settings, said Robert DeCarteret, a prosecutor in the mental health court. This means a month can go by and no one has evaluated them. Judge James Bianco of the mental health court said the threefold increase in cases over the last five years means every part of the system is strained. We need three times as many attorneys, three times as many doctors for evaluations, and three times as many treatment beds, he said. Of course we have none of this, so everyone is scrambling to try to keep up. The increase in cases also signals continued crowding in jail psychiatric units. More than 4,000 people needing mental health treatment are in L.A. County jails, according to sheriffs officials, including 1,000 in the high-observation unit for the most severely ill. As of late January, more than 300 of those were people who had been found incompetent to stand trial, including 166 felony inmates waiting to go to state hospitals and 161 misdemeanor inmates undergoing treatment in the jail. Since September, 70 misdemeanor defendants found incompetent to stand trial have been released into the new community treatment program, and officials hope to expand it. But felony defendants are not eligible. A small number of them are sent to a controversial competency restoration program run by a private contractor in a San Bernardino County jail. Public defenders argue that jail is not an appropriate setting for mental health treatment, while proponents point out that many of the defendants would be stuck in jail in any case because there arent enough state hospital slots. And the misdemeanor program has had its own issues. Ochoa said about 15% of the participants have walked away from treatment facilities. Some came back voluntarily, others were picked up on warrants, and some remain outstanding. You always hope for 100%, but you have to be realistic, she said. This is a very difficult to treat population. For us, whats most important is that people who belong in the hospital should not be in jail. abby.sewell@latimes.com Twitter: @sewella ALSO Murder charges against rehab center are a first in California Suspected street racer still at large after fiery crash that killed three Anti-KKK protesters in Anaheim demand release of demonstrators from jail Im Davan Maharaj, editor of the Los Angeles Times. Here are some story lines I dont want you to miss today. TOP STORIES Oscars in the Spotlight and the Crosshairs Advertisement Chris Rock took on #OscarsSoWhite in a big way, from the opening monologue onward. Leonardo DiCaprio finally won. And Spotlight was the best picture on a night that gave us several surprises, possibly the oldest Oscar winner in composer Ennio Morricone, and the debut of the thank-you crawl on TV. As it all played out, Al Sharpton was slamming Hollywood, and in Flint, Mich, Creeds director held a benefit featuring Stevie Wonder and Janelle Monae. Full coverage is here, along with the complete list of winners. The cast of best picture winner Spotlight take a floor selfie backstage at the Oscars. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) More About the Oscars -- Photos and video: Best- and worst-dressed. The red-carpet rewind. Show highlights. The view from behind the scenes. -- Kenneth Turan called it: Why Spotlight won. -- Mary McNamara: The show was a hot mess, but at least it wasnt boring. -- Back to Chris Rock: Thumbs up or thumbs down? Join the spirited discussion right here. Chris Rock at the end of the Oscars show. (Al Seib / Los Angeles Times) Try This On for Size: President Trump What might a Donald Trump presidency look like? Thats a difficult proposition for Democrats and some Republicans to ponder -- not only because of the unanswerables. The one clear theme is Trumps belief in the personal use of executive power, as well as his pledges to increase military spending and not cut Social Security or Medicare. Read on to see how far that executive power could take him and where it would stop. The Weekend That Was in Politics Hillary Clinton cruised to victory in South Carolina, and Bernie Sanders admitted, We got killed. Ted Cruz claimed Trump may have Mafia ties. Trump disparaged Little Marco Rubio as a lightweight, and tweeted a quote from Mussolini. Rubio called Trump unelectable after he failed to immediately disavow the endorsement of former KKK leader David Duke. What will tomorrow bring? Heres how Super Tuesday could mean its all over but the shouting -- but oh what shouting it will be. Shock in Anaheim Three people stabbed. Thirteen people arrested. And lots of questions -- about why the Ku Klux Klan demonstrated in racially diverse Anaheim and whether the police presence was sufficient as violence erupted between the KKK and people there to protest the Klan. Why would they target us and our city? Ive lived here all my life and I can tell you its calm and theres the magic of Disney. They picked the wrong place, said one resident. But the ugly history of the KKK in Anaheim goes back nearly 100 years. One iPhone? Perhaps Up to 450 in L.A. Alone Police officials around the country are watching the fight between Apple and the FBI over the iPhone 5c used by Syed Rizwan Farook. Their hope: that a ruling in the governments favor will set a precedent allowing broader law enforcement access to encrypted data, even as they acknowledge privacy concerns and that not every phone is pivotal to an investigation. The L.A. County Sheriffs Department has as many as 150 phones investigators cant crack, while the LAPD has about 300. L.A.'s Korean War of Words When Korean immigrants cobbled together donations to purchase a building on the corner of Western and Olympic four decades ago, it became a source of pride. Now, the Korean American Community Center is the center of protracted infighting. Read on to see why locksmiths and lawyers are being brought in over a home of our own in the heart of L.A. OUR MUST-READS FROM THE WEEKEND -- Steve Lopez: If East L.A.'s Latinos speak for the nations, a wall could come tumbling down on Trump. -- Murder charges against a rehab center are a first in California. -- Why Silicon Valley is betting big on India. -- Happy Leap Day! Heres what the date would be today if we didnt have leap years. -- In Hollywood, there is no Magical Latino. -- How did this happen? The Lakers as laughingstocks of the NBA. -- In the caves of South Dakota, we shed light on ourselves upon descending into the darkness. CALIFORNIA -- A suspected street racer is still at large after a fiery crash that killed three people. -- California Democrats are losing the fight for younger voters. -- Mental competency cases are on the rise in L.A. County, and no one is sure of the cause. -- A Huntington Park tow operator is charged with trying to bribe an elected official. NATION-WORLD -- Why Trump and Sanders are praising healthcare in other countries. -- The Pentagon is mobilizing military hackers against Islamic State. -- Reformers and moderates romp in Tehran as Irans election gauges the popularity of the nuclear deal. -- A Virginia police officer is fatally shot one day after being sworn in. -- Theres no limit to how many times a president can submit a Supreme Court nomination. -- Scientists are trying to get to the bottom of Zikas apparent link to microcephaly. HOLLYWOOD AND THE ARTS -- How Hedy Lamarr inspired the TV series Agent Carter. -- Matty Healy of the band the 1975 wants to be loved. But hell take your disgust. -- Gods of Egypt becomes the years first big-budget bomb at the box office. BUSINESS -- SpaceX scrubs its latest rocket launch just moments before liftoff. -- Disneyland demand pricing will cost you $5 less on slow days and $20 more when its busy. -- Auto review: The new Chevrolet Volt is something to get charged up about. SPORTS -- Are synthetic playing surfaces hazardous to athletes health? -- The L.A. Kings and Anaheim Ducks met in a Freeway Face-off game with playoff implications. WHAT OUR EDITORS ARE READING -- How an U.S. Olympic medalist in figure skating ended up bankrupt and living in a trailer. (Washington Post) -- Sweden confronts a problem: teens going to Islamic State as child brides. (The Guardian) -- A guide to faking your own business-class upgrade. (Quartz) ONLY IN CALIFORNIA Do you believe in unicorns? When the call came in to the CHP last week, there was every reason to think drugs were at play: A report of a unicorn-like animal galloping down a road north of Fresno. But then the officers met Juliet -- a snow-white, 600-pound Shetland pony with a prosthetic horn and a fuzzy pink bridle. Read on to see how it took three and half hours to round her up. Please send comments and ideas to Davan Maharaj. Criticism of the Anaheim Police Departments response to a Ku Klux Klan rally that erupted in violence over the weekend continued Monday as an attorney for three people who took part in protests against the group and were arrested claimed officers broke the arm of one of his clients. Thomas Kielty, who is representing the three protesters arrested near Pearson Park on Saturday, said Hugo Contreras suffered a broken arm as police took him into custody. Kielty said his clients were attempting to detain a klansman who had stabbed another protester and that police mistook them for aggressors when they were arrested on suspicion of elder abuse. Contreras, a 38-year-old Hawthorne resident, was arrested along with Mark Liddell, 26, of Los Angeles, and Nicole Rae Schop, a 24-year-old high school teacher with the Los Angeles Unified School District. Advertisement Kielty criticized the Police Departments response to the violence, which broke out when a group of counter-protesters swarmed a small group of KKK members outside the park about noon. See more of our top stories on Facebook >> There did not appear to be any uniformed officers in or around the park when the klan members first arrived, and a lengthy video of the brawl shot by a California State University professor shows officers arriving on the scene several minutes after the klan members were attacked. Hes treated like a filthy dirty criminal, and then [the police] are very polite and civil to these KKK guys, who have stabbed three people. All Mr. Contreras did was try to help his friend, Kielty said. It was almost like this was set up in part by the police, for not showing up. Protesters taunt an injured Ku Klux Klansman after members of the KKK tried to start a White Lives Matter rally at Pearson Park in Anaheim. Witnesses said the Klansmen used the point of a flagpole as a weapon while fighting with protesters. (Luis Sinco / Los Angeles Times) The three were among seven protesters arrested, according to Sgt. Daron Wyatt, a police spokesman. Three others were arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon and held on $25,000 bail. A juvenile was also arrested, police have said. Five klan members were also arrested. In a statement issued Sunday, police said four of the klansmen were released after a review of video taken at the scene. Police are still searching for one person who can be seen on video kicking William Quigg, the self-identified leader of the klan sect, in the face. Wyatt previously said that the protesters incited the violence. The totality of the evidence, including videos, still pictures, and interviews, paints a pretty clear picture as to who the aggressors were, he said. It does appear to be self-defense and defense of another. A final decision on whether to file charges will be made by Orange County prosecutors. Wyatt has declined to say exactly how many officers had been in the park or comment directly on the departments response. We had individuals who specifically came there to commit acts of violence, and there is nothing to do to stop that, he said. He did not immediately respond to questions about Contreras injuries. Several dozen counter-protesters arrived at the park about 10 a.m., hours before the klan members arrived on Cypress Street in a black SUV. In the hours leading up to the melee, the group of protesters was largely peaceful, speaking out about police brutality, racial inequality and other social issues while denouncing the klans message. A smaller group of protesters, however, remained off to the side and talked about hurting the klansmen if they arrived. A video posted to Facebook on Sunday night shows several minutes of the violent clash and also contains comments from Quigg, the KKK leader, who can be heard saying the point of the rally was that white lives matter. The video, shot by Cal State San Bernardino professor Brian Levin, shows Quigg being knocked to the ground and kicked in the face. Several protesters can be seen wielding large pieces of wood and surrounding Quigg. One screams I hope you die slow as the crowd grows increasingly livid at the klans presence. Its not about the violence! other protesters can be heard shouting at those who attacked the klan members. NEWSLETTER: Get essential California headlines delivered daily >> Levin attempted to interview Quigg in the midst of the melee. Quigg repeatedly said he did not believe in white supremacy and attempted to distance himself from what he called the old klan, but later referred to the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. as a communist and described Adolf Hitler as a great man, at the beginning. He also promised to bring more klansmen the next time the group rallies. I guess next time were going to have to have more of California come, he said."This is just the city of Anaheim. Levin, who directs the universitys Center for Research on Hate and Extremism, said Quigg is the self-described leader of the West Coast contingent of the Loyal White Knights, the klans largest remaining faction. The group often attempts to gain publicity by staging rallies in neighborhoods where they know they will draw a furious response. The Loyal White Knights is really about inciting conflict. They were the ones who tried to put together something in support of the Mother Emmanuel Massacre shooter, said Levin, referring to the racially-motivated killings of nine people at a South Carolina church last year. This is the loathsome level that this group seeks to descend. They like publicity and they like turning conflict around to say, See our point is proven. Though he said Anaheim police should have been at the scene before the fight broke out, Levin credited officers with stopping further bloodshed. When the police responded, lives were saved, period, he said. We can get into timing and sequences, but I know that the klansmens lives were saved by the police coming in. Several community and religious groups are planning to hold a peace rally in Anaheim on Monday evening. The group will walk from Pearson Park to City Hall, where they will host a candlelight vigil to show a commitment to peace and non-violence in the face of hate. Follow @JamesQueallyLAT for crime and police news in Southern California. Times staff writer Richard Winton contributed to this report. ALSO One man still wanted by police in KKK rally stabbings at Anaheim park Anaheim is land of Disney, not Ku Klux Klan, dismayed residents say Mother and son are killed in a drive-by shooting outside a Carson home Five Ku Klux Klan members who were arrested at a violent melee in an Anaheim park were released from jail after a video showed they were acting in self-defense, police said Sunday. The four men and one woman had been held on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon for allegedly stabbing three people who were demonstrating against the white supremacist group, according to a statement from the Anaheim Police Department. Police released the five after video and other evidence appeared to exonerate them. Advertisement The totality of the evidence, including videos, still pictures, and interviews, paints a pretty clear picture as to who the aggressors were, Anaheim police Sgt. Daron Wyatt said. It does appear to be self-defense and defense of another. A final decision on whether to file charges will be made by Orange County prosecutors. Seven anti-KKK protesters also were arrested during the brawl in Pearson Park and remain in police custody. More than a dozen people gathered Sunday outside Anaheim police headquarters and carried signs demanding the release of the seven, who include one juvenile. Some of them are being held on trumped-up charges of elder abuse, said Debbie Leance, the groups spokeswoman. a high school teacher from Riverside. Were fighting for all charges to be dropped, but were not getting answers. Police still were looking for at least one assault suspect. They released a photo of a man, asking the publics help to identify him. A small group of people representing the klan initially announced that it would hold the Saturday rally in the city where the group was once powerful. Police expected about 20 people to show up at the rally. Hours before the protest was to begin, several dozen anti-KKK protesters had arrived to stage a counter-demonstration. About 12 p.m., several men in black garb with Confederate flag patches arrived in an SUV near the edge of the park. Fighting broke out moments after they got out of the car. Some of the protesters could be seen kicking a man whose shirt read Grand Dragon. At some point, an anti-KKK protester collapsed on the ground bleeding, crying that he had been stabbed. Two other anti-KKK protesters were also stabbed during the melee one with a knife and the other with an unidentified weapon, Wyatt said. The three stabbing victims were hospitalized in stable condition, police said. Witnesses said the klansmen used the point of a flagpole as a weapon while fighting with protesters. As he was escorted in handcuffs by police, one klansman told the officer that he stabbed [a man] in self-defense. Anaheim city officials have defended the polices handling of the melee. Cautioning that officers had a tough job trying to protect everyone, Mayor Tom Tait said that police were conducting an internal review to assess whether the departments performance could be improved. Wyatt said the department had a plan in place and that officers quickly responded to the violence. We had individuals who specifically came there to commit acts of violence, and there is nothing to do to stop that, he said of the violent confrontation that was partly captured on video. Klansmen were once the dominant political force in Anaheim, occupying four of five City Council seats before a recall effort led to their ouster in 1924. A KKK rally once drew 20,000 people to the city. The seven people who remained in police custody, included a 17-year-old, who was unidentified because juveniles names are not released. The others were: Nicole Rae Schop, 24, of Los Angeles, who was arrested on suspicion of elder abuse, with bail set at $50,000. Marquis DeShawn Turner, 20, of Anaheim, who was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, with bail set at $25,000. Randy Omarcc Felder, 25, of Lakewood, who was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, with bail set at $25,000. Mark Anthony Liddell, 26, of Los Angeles, who was arrested on suspicion of elder abuse, with bail set at $50,000. Guy Harris, 19, a transient, who was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, with bail set at $25,000. Hugo Contreras, 38, of Hawthorne, who was arrested on suspicion of elder abuse, with bail set at $50,000. For more news in California, follow @NewsTerrier, @LACrimes, and @MattHjourno. Times staff writer James Queally contributed to this report. See more of our top stories on Facebook >> ALSO Anaheim is land of Disney, not Ku Klux Klan, dismayed residents say Suspected street racer still at large after fiery crash that killed three All lanes of 5 Freeway in Commerce reopened after fatal crash Police were asking for the publics help Monday in finding a man who they believe was involved in a bloody melee with a group of Ku Klux Klan members at an Anaheim park over the weekend, authorities said. The man is wanted on suspicion of assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury in connection with several stabbings Saturday afternoon at Pearson Park, where counter-protesters confronted a small group of KKK members who showed up for a rally. The melee ended with more than a dozen arrests and three people stabbed. Five KKK members who were arrested as part of the brawl were released from jail after a video showed they were acting in self-defense, Anaheim police said Sunday. Advertisement The four men and one woman had been held on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon after the stabbings of three people who were demonstrating against the white supremacist group, according to a statement from the Anaheim Police Department. Police released the five after video and other evidence appeared to exonerate them. The totality of the evidence, including videos, still pictures and interviews, paints a pretty clear picture as to who the aggressors were, Anaheim police Sgt. Daron Wyatt said. It does appear to be self-defense and defense of another. A final decision on whether to file charges will be made by Orange County prosecutors. See more of our top stories on Facebook >> Seven anti-KKK protesters also were arrested during the brawl in Pearson Park. Several remain in police custody. More than a dozen people gathered Sunday outside Anaheim police headquarters and carried signs demanding the protesters release. Some of them are being held on trumped-up charges of elder abuse, said Debbie Leance, the groups spokeswoman. a high school teacher from Riverside. Were fighting for all charges to be dropped, but were not getting answers. Police still were looking for at least one assault suspect. They released a photo of a man, asking for the publics help in identifying him. A small group of people representing the Klan initially announced that it would hold the Saturday rally in the city where the group was once powerful. Police expected about 20 people to show up at the rally. Hours before the protest was to begin, several dozen anti-KKK protesters had arrived to stage a counter-demonstration. About 12 p.m., several men in black garb with Confederate flag patches arrived in an SUV near the edge of the park. Fighting broke out moments after they got out of the car. Some of the protesters could be seen kicking a man whose shirt read Grand Dragon. At some point, an anti-KKK protester collapsed on the ground bleeding, crying that he had been stabbed. Two other anti-KKK protesters were also stabbed during the melee one with a knife and the other with an unidentified weapon, Wyatt said. The three stabbing victims were hospitalized in stable condition, police said. Witnesses said the klansmen used the point of a flagpole as a weapon while fighting with protesters. As he was escorted in handcuffs by police, one klansman told the officer that he stabbed [a man] in self-defense. Anaheim city officials have defended the polices handling of the melee. Cautioning that officers had a tough job trying to protect everyone, Mayor Tom Tait said that police were conducting an internal review to assess whether the departments performance could be improved. Wyatt said the department had a plan in place and that officers quickly responded to the violence. We had individuals who specifically came there to commit acts of violence, and there is nothing to do to stop that, he said of the violent confrontation that was partly captured on video. Klansmen were once the dominant political force in Anaheim, occupying four of five City Council seats before a recall effort led to their ouster in 1924. A KKK rally once drew 20,000 people to the city. Among the protesters who were arrested was a 17-year-old, who was unidentified because juveniles names are not released. The others were: Nicole Rae Schop, 24, of Los Angeles, who was arrested on suspicion of elder abuse, with bail set at $50,000. Marquis DeShawn Turner, 20, of Anaheim, who was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, with bail set at $25,000. Randy Omar McCauley Felder, 25, of Lakewood, who was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, with bail set at $25,000. Mark Anthony Liddell, 26, of Los Angeles, who was arrested on suspicion of elder abuse, with bail set at $50,000. Guy Harris, 19, a transient, who was arrested on suspicion of assault with a deadly weapon, with bail set at $25,000. Hugo Contreras, 38, of Hawthorne, who was arrested on suspicion of elder abuse, with bail set at $50,000. Staff writers Matt Hamilton and James Queally contributed to this report. Follow @newsterrier, @LAcrimes and @JosephSerna on Twitter. ALSO Anaheim is land of Disney, not Ku Klux Klan, dismayed residents say Violence at Ku Klux Klan rally in Anaheim: Police defend their actions Mother and son are killed in a drive-by shooting outside a Carson home U.S. commanders mounted a cyberoffensive against Islamic State in Syria for the first time in recent weeks by deploying military hackers against the extremist groups computer and cellphone networks, according to the Pentagon. The digital assault, launched from Ft. Meade in Maryland, marked the first major integration of U.S. Cyber Command into a major battlefield operation since the command was established in 2009. More importantly, Secretary of Defense Ashton Carters disclosure of a government-sanctioned cyberattack represents a shift in Americas war-fighting strategy and power projection. No other nation has publicly acknowledged launching cyberwar. Advertisement Join the conversation on Facebook >> But in December, after deadly terrorist attacks in Paris and San Bernardino, frustrated officials in the White House pushed the Pentagon and intelligence agencies to crack down harder on Islamic States use of the digital realm to recruit and radicalize followers, handle logistics and communicate with commanders and fighting units. Carter said Monday at the Pentagon that the goal was to overload their networks and interrupt their ability to command and control forces with jamming and other cybertools. This is something thats new in this war, Carter said before he left on a four-day swing through the West Coast to meet Silicon Valley executives, address a cybersecurity conference in San Francisco and visit Amazon and Microsoft in Seattle. Carter did not reveal details of the new cybercampaign, and its effect and extent are difficult to assess. Gen. Joseph F. Dunford Jr., chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who appeared with Carter, said secrecy was necessary to ensure Islamic State commanders dont know if theyre under attack, or just suffering technical problems. We dont want the enemy to know when, where and how were conducting cyberoperations, he said. We dont want them to have information that allows them to adapt over time. Just as the Pentagon seeks to avert civilian casualties in airstrikes, it needs to calibrate cyberattacks to avoid unintended consequences. Blocking all communications in territory held by the militants, for example, could hamper U.S. collection of intelligence on their locations, operations and plans. It also could affect civilian networks or those used by humanitarian groups in Syrias civil war. But U.S. officials said targeted denial of service and other cyberattacks, plus more than 85 coalition airstrikes, helped U.S.-backed Syrian rebels retake the strategic town of Shaddada and nearby oil fields in mid-February, a major prize in the war. The officials, who were not authorized to speak publicly about ongoing operations, said teams working from Ft. Meade identified and jammed Islamic State online communication networks during the four-day battle. The victory severed a critical route that the militants used to funnel fighters and supplies from the Iraqi border to Raqqah, their self-declared capital and chief stronghold in northeastern Syria. Pentagon officials described the growing role of Cyber Command as part of a strategic shift from cyberdefense to cyberoffense as the military adopts digital sabotage as a new tool for combat and counter-terrorism. Cyberoffense doctrine remains secret, but Carter has spoken about the need to mobilize Cyber Command to counter Islamic States sophisticated use of social media and other Internet platforms. The effort was set in motion in December, shortly after Islamic State sponsored an attack in Paris that killed 130 people, and a couple loyal to the group killed 14 in San Bernardino. In a White House meeting, officials directed senior Pentagon officials to prepare options for more aggressive cyberoperations. Carter ordered Adm. Michael S. Rogers, head of both Cyber Command and the National Security Agency, to develop the strategy. The capacity and capability is starting to come online, Rogers said in a Jan. 21 speech at the Atlantic Council think tank in Washington. The military will rely on cyberattacks in a broader and broader way. Hacker teams working with U.S. Central Command, which oversees U.S. military operations in the Middle East, were ordered to focus on disrupting [Islamic States] ability to command and control, to communicate, and to run the so-called state, according to a Defense Department official. The Obama administrations budget request to Congress for the next fiscal year includes $6.8 billion for Cyber Command and other Pentagon cybersecurity operations. Thats a 15% increase over this year even as the Pentagon has faced budget cuts. Martin Libicki, a cyber and national security analyst at the nonpartisan Rand Corp. think tank in Arlington, Va., said Cyber Command has far greater resources than Islamic State and should be able to overwhelm the group, which is also known as ISIS. They probably couldnt do this so easily with a sophisticated enemy, but ISIS is not a sophisticated enemy, he said. Lets face it, ISIS is not going to reengineer its computer systems after they realize theyve been breached. Experts say Russia, China, North Korea and other countries have hacked U.S. government networks in recent years, mostly to steal information. But none has publicly acknowledged it. Cybersabotage also has begun to emerge in conflict zones. In January, Ukraines military blamed hackers in Russia for malware that caused massive power outages. Moscow, which is supporting insurgents in eastern Ukraine, denied involvement. One reason for the caution is fear of potential blowback. U.S. communication and digital networks, from finance to public safety, are potentially at risk of counterattacks. There is no end to what the enemy could do to us, Lani Kass, a former senior Pentagon official now with defense contractor CACI International, warned at a recent symposium. Its clear those concerns no longer are enough to stop Americas use of cyberweapons. Theres a monumental shift in global security happening right now, from simply protecting systems and equipment to having the capability to attack and control them, said Alan Paller, research director at SANS Institute, a cybertraining center in Bethesda, Md. No military campaign in the future will be fought without a cybercomponent. Follow @wjhenn for military and defense info. ALSO What a Donald Trump presidency might actually look like Supreme Court okays Californias use of unclaimed cash Why Trump and Sanders are praising healthcare in other countries Supreme Court Justice Clarence Thomas broke his decade-long silence Monday and asked several questions during an oral argument about whether people should lose their right to carry a gun because of a domestic violence conviction. Thomas took the side of a Maine man who lost his right to own a gun after he pleaded guilty to a domestic violence charge and paid a $200 fine. Speaking near the end of an hour-long argument, Thomas pressed a government lawyer to cite another example of where the law permanently suspends a citizens constitutional right based on a misdemeanor conviction. Advertisement He was referring to the 2nd Amendment right to have a gun. No one would lose their 1st Amendment to right to speak or publish a book because of a misdemeanor conviction, he said. NEWSLETTER: Get the days top headlines from Times Editor Davan Maharaj >> Can you think of another constitutional right that can be suspended based upon a misdemeanor violation of a state law, Thomas asked, suggesting that the government might have a better case if the underlying crime had involved the use of a gun. Federal law forbids felons from possessing a gun, and in 1996, Congress went further and outlawed gun possession for anyone who has been convicted in any court of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. The high court unanimously upheld that provision three years ago as long as the defendant had used physical force. The justices on Monday heard an appeal from a Maine man who pleaded guilty in 2004 for having knowingly or recklessly caused or engaged in offensive physical contact with his girlfriend. The man, Stephen Voisine, was arrested five years later for having shot a protected bald eagle. When federal investigators discovered his earlier conviction for domestic violence, they charged him with unlawful possession of a firearm. The court agreed to hear his appeal to decide whether reckless conduct was enough to trigger the ban on gun possession. Thomas courtroom silence is rare. Though in earlier decades it was common for justices to sit silently for weeks at a time, today the other eight justices typically ask at least one question during every argument. Thomas has given several explanations for his silence. He told law school audiences that his colleagues asked too many questions and did not permit lawyers to make their arguments. Prior to joining the court in 1991, Thomas served one year on the U.S. court of appeals, where he was one of three judges asking questions during arguments. See more of our top stories on Facebook >> Thomas also said that from his days at the Yale Law School, he preferred to listen rather than ask questions in class. Before Monday, the last time Thomas asked a question during oral arguments was in February 2006. On occasion in court, he leans over to speak privately to Justice Stephen Breyer. At times, Breyer has said that Thomas had made an interesting point and tried, without success, to encourage Thomas to raise it with the lawyer. Some speculated that the recent death of Justice Antonin Scalia may have prodded Thomas to break his silence. A fellow conservative, Thomas joined Scalia in 5-4 rulings that had upheld individual gun rights under the 2nd Amendment. Without Scalia, Thomas may believe the court lacks a strong voice in favor of the 2nd Amendment. On Twitter: @DavidGSavage ALSO Judge allows Sumner Redstone competency case to proceed Why Trump and Sanders are praising healthcare in other countries Student activists in Hong Kong expect justice as they face charges over protests Hillary Clinton routed Sen. Bernie Sanders in the Democratic primary in South Carolina on Saturday, giving her campaign a decisive boost and demonstrating her advantage with the minority voters crucial to winning the partys nomination for president. The crushing victory of more than 47 percentage points reaffirmed Clintons strength as a candidate and suggests she is poised to build her lead over Sanders considerably in the next few days. The election in South Carolina, which has a majority black Democratic electorate, may serve as a harbinger of what is to come when 11 states vote this week on Super Tuesday. Many of the next group of states also have a large African American electorate. Clinton won 85% of the black vote here, according to an exit poll of the states voters. Advertisement Today you sent a message, Clinton said in an emotional victory speech that touched on the Black Lives Matter movement, systemic bigotry and the polluted drinking water that has poisoned residents of the largely African American city of Flint, Mich. In America, when we stand together there is no barrier too big to break. Tomorrow this campaign goes national. Although she said she was not taking her nomination victory for granted, Clinton already seemed to be looking ahead, striking a contrast with the Republican she expects to face in the fall. Despite what you hear, we dont need to make America great again. America has never stopped being great, she said, as the audience roared at the clear reference to Donald Trump. But we do need to make America whole again, she said. Instead of building walls, we need to be tearing down barriers. We need to show by everything we do that we really are in this together. The victory Saturday was redemption for Clinton in a state where she endured a bitter loss in 2008, when early enthusiasm for her campaign among African American voters withered as Barack Obama picked up momentum. Dismissive comments about the South Carolina electorate by Bill Clinton after that loss had threatened to strain the couples relationship with black voters. There was no sign of strain Saturday, however. Black Democrats, in South Carolina at least, stuck with Hillary Clinton in a big way. She won decisively with the youngest black voters, a group Sanders had aggressively courted, and she won almost every black voter 96% of them over the age of 65, according to the exit poll, conducted for the major television networks and the Associated Press. Her strong performance, winning every county in the state, exceeded even that of Obama eight years ago. Clinton had worked aggressively to highlight her connection to President Obama as a member of his administration and her commitment to build on his legacy. The exit poll reflected an electorate that was very fond of the president and his policies. Sanders, who delivered a subdued speech Saturday night to supporters in Rochester, Minn., conceded the race in a statement issued only minutes after South Carolinas polls closed, congratulating Clinton on her victory but pledging that he would continue to campaign. Let me be clear on one thing tonight: This campaign is just beginning, Sanders said. We wont stop now. The fact that Sanders felt the need to say that, however, pointed to both the magnitude and importance of Clintons victory here. The win put her campaign back on firmer footing after a bumpy start to the race and quieted the worries of influential Democrats who had helped discourage other candidates from running. Clintons campaign had long counted on South Carolina to serve as a firewall against any spread of support for Sanders, one in which her deep ties to minority communities would protect her position as the front-runner for the nomination. Sanders struggled to make headway against a Clinton machine that has had a strong relationship with the states African American community for decades. The senator from Vermont did not have much in the way of a visible campaign in the state until recently. In the days leading up to the primary, Sanders signaled that he did not feel victory in South Carolina was within his grasp, spending little time there. You dont see him. You dont hear from him, said Cleveland Sanders, 39, who cast his ballot for Clinton in North Charleston. A closed mouth dont get fed. Enthusiasm for Sanders among some black celebrities and activists was no match for the loyalty Clinton had won from a much larger and more influential coalition of African American leaders, including Democratic Rep. James E. Clyburn, a former House majority whip and the dean of South Carolina black political leaders. We tonight have started Hillary Clinton on her way to the White House, Clyburn said in introducing her Saturday night, praising her for staying loyal to the administration that got this economy out of the ditch. Sen. Cory Booker of New Jersey, a rising African American political star, showed up Friday at a church in the hardscrabble city of Florence, S.C., to hammer home the theme Clintons black surrogates have been repeating often as campaigning intensified in recent days. Im not supporting Hillary Clinton because of the speeches shes given, he said. Im supporting her because she was here when it wasnt election time. Sanders has taken a very different approach to reaching out to minority voters than Clinton, who is more comfortable with the politics of identity and speaks eloquently and forcefully on the ills of white privilege. Sanders has kept his focus on the economy, arguing it is rigged for the benefit of the wealthiest 1%. As he struggles to win over minority voters, the delegate math is looking increasingly to be in Clintons favor. Polls show her with a commanding lead in high-delegate states including Texas, Georgia and Virginia, as well as in several other Southern states. Even Massachusetts, a neighbor to Sanders home state of Vermont, is looking to be a tossup. Yet Clintons momentum is also running into the impressive Sanders fundraising machine, which is built on more than a million small donors whose enthusiasm and devotion to the Vermonters candidacy outstrips what Clinton has been able to muster. Even a Sanders loss in South Carolina and a weak showing on Super Tuesday would be unlikely to change that. Hillary is moving with a lot of wind at her back, former Democratic national Chairman Ed Rendell said. But it isnt over for Bernie, because Bernie will have the money to contest her all the way to California, if he so desires. That election is still three months away. Twitter: @evanhalper, @chrismegerian Halper reported from Washington and Megerian from Charleston, S.C. Times staff writers Kurtis Lee in Columbia and Michael A. Memoli in Washington contributed to this report. ALSO Trumps call for a wall continues a debate as old as the U.S.-Mexico border Rubio attacks Trump, but hell have to win something to get the best of him South Carolina black voters say they know Hillary Clinton well enough to pass on Bernie Sanders Hillary Clinton eyes Donald Trump in victory speech: America has never stopped being great "Despite what you hear, America never stopped being great!" https://t.co/ol2pWBc4TY https://t.co/eDgPMj9oG0 CBS News (@CBSNews) February 28, 2016 Hillary Clinton basked briefly in an overwhelming victory in South Carolina on Saturday, but quickly began to look ahead to the widening battlefield in the Democratic nomination race and even the general election as she called for greater civility in politics. Tomorrow, this campaign goes national, Clinton told supporters at an election night rally in Columbia, the states capital. We are going to compete for every vote in every state. We are not taking anything and were not taking anyone for granted. Clinton congratulated her rival, Sen. Bernie Sanders, on a well-fought campaign in the state and again seemed to absorb some of his populist messaging. She made an early plea for online contributions, thanking the more than 850,000 grass-roots donors that she said are powering this campaign. Her message included some of the staples of her recent stump speech -- promising to build on the progress of President Obama while pledging to break down the barriers that she said still hold too many Americans back. Clinton also praised the courage of mothers whose children died in racially charged encounters, saying they have channeled their sorrow into a strategy, and their mourning into a movement. And she again highlighted the water crisis in Flint, Mich., praising ordinary people who have stepped up to help the citys residents. But she also seemed to look past Super Tuesday next week to offer an early hint of her strategy against the Republican front-runner, Donald Trump. Despite what you hear, we dont need to make America great again. America has never stopped being great, she said, as the audience roared at the clear reference to Trumps campaign slogan. But we do need to make America whole again, she continued. Instead of building walls, we need to be tearing down barriers. We need to show by everything we do that we really are in this together. Later, she cited the Bible as she called for Americans to lift one another up. The verse she mentioned was from 1 Corinthians; Trump took some flak for referring to 2 Corinthians as two Corinthians, rather than the more colloquial second Corinthians, in a campaign appearance at an evangelical Christian university. I know it sometimes seems a little odd for someone running for president in these, in this time, to say we need more love and kindness in America, Clinton said. But Im telling you from the bottom of my heart, we do. Clinton was introduced by South Carolinas lone Democrat in Congress, Rep. James E. Clyburn, who had offered a well-timed endorsement just as the campaign shifted to his state. South Carolina voters, he said, have started Hillary Clinton on her way to the White House. Californias system of seizing and spending unclaimed cash from banks, mutual funds and defunct businesses has survived a Supreme Court challenge. The state says it is now holding $8 billion in lost assets. And from this fund, it takes about $450 million a year to add to the state budget. Join the conversation on Facebook >> Advertisement After considering an appeal for four months, the justices said Monday they would not hear a long-running lawsuit that contends the state does not do enough to notify the rightful owners before seizing their assets. Under the states law, accounts can be seized if a bank or retirement fund has lost track of the owner for three years. State Controller Betty Yee says her office holds these assets so they can be returned to their rightful owner. Its website www.claimit.ca.gov permits people to check to see if any of their assets are being held by the state. Amounts under $5,000 can be quickly reclaimed, she said. But lawyers who sued called the states system a recipe for abuse because many people are unaware that their assets or those of a relative are being held by the state. In a concurrence, Justice Samuel A. Alito Jr. said the justices should decide in a future case whether states must do more to contact owners of lost property. Interested in the stories shaping California? Sign up for the free Essential California newsletter >> As advances in technology make it easier and easier to identify and locate property owners, many states appear to be doing less and less to meet their constitutional obligation to provide adequate notice before seizing the accounts, Alito said in Taylor vs. Yee. Cash-strapped states undoubtedly have a real interest in taking advantage of truly abandoned property to shore up state budgets. But they also have an obligation to return property when its owner can be located. Justice Clarence Thomas said he agreed. Separately, the court turned down a building-industry challenge to a San Jose ordinance that says at least 15% of new residential units must be reserved for low-income buyers. These units must be sold at a below-market price that cannot exceed 30% of the buyers median income. The California Building Assn. sued, contending the ordinance amounted to an unconstitutional taking of private property. But the California Supreme Court ruled the ordinance can be enforced, and the Supreme Court said Monday it would not hear the builders appeal. On Twitter: @DavidGSavage ALSO Pentagon mobilizes military hackers against Islamic State A threat ahead: California Democrats losing the fight for younger voters Heres everything you need to know about the healthcare plans tax The Republican establishment has finally woken to the danger its in: Unless something changes soon, Donald Trump is going to be the partys nominee for president. How is this possible? As has often been noted, Trump has been able to win primaries with no more than 35% of the vote because the GOP field is so fragmented. The non-Trump majority has divided its votes among Sen. Marco Rubio, Sen. Ted Cruz, Gov. John Kasich and others. But theres another, less obvious reason Trump is doing so well: Hes turned out to be a disciplined candidate with a clear strategy. Hes not the unguided missile he once appeared to be. Advertisement His attacks on other candidates may have looked petulant, but its now clear that they were calculated. For much of last year, Trump concentrated his fire on Jeb Bush, who was long considered a front-runner. Trump grabs media attention by saying something outrageous - and then takes a step back, as if to say: I didnt mean it literally. When Bush faded, Trump moved his sights to Cruz, who was trying a little too obviously to steal Trump voters. There was nothing random about the choice of targets. Ted is hanging around the top too long, Trump told aides in January, according to the Wall Street Journal. Time to take him down. If the pattern holds, Trumps next punching bag will be Rubio, whos been unofficially anointed as the Great Establishment Hope. You can expect Trump to warn voters that Rubio is in the pocket of the big-money donors who are frantically pumping cash into his campaign. Besides, as Trump said last year (at a time when Rubio was surging): Marco Rubio, hes like a kid.... He sweats more than any young person Ive ever seen. Trumps campaign has been a strategic success in another, subtler way: Hes quietly climbed down from positions that might alienate too many GOP voters. The real estate mogul has kept the core of his populist message clear: He says hell get rid of incompetent politicians, halt illegal immigration by building a wall on the U.S.-Mexico border and stop losing to other countries. But hes also softened some of his most unusual statements, if only around the edges. After tangling with Pope Francis over immigration last week, he quickly decided to call a truce. The Pope is great, he told voters in South Carolina. After charging that President George W. Bush lied to take the country to war with Iraq in 2003, Trump muddied his attack. He could have lied. Maybe he did, maybe he didnt. Youd have to ask him, he said. After surprising conservative voters by defending Planned Parenthood, he promised that he would block federal funding for the group if it continued to offer abortions. And Trump has even shown unexpected charity toward the news media. We love the press, he said at a rally last week. Were hard on the press; Ive called them so many different names. Notice the pattern? Trump grabs media attention by saying something outrageous and then takes a step back, as if to say: I didnt mean it literally. That free media strategy has enabled Trump to dominate the debate. Trump is also more traditional than he may seem when it comes to financing his campaign and motivating supporters. He has often boasted that his campaign is self-financed, but like many other Trump claims, thats not entirely true. About one-third of the $26million hes collected has come from individual donors. And although hes joked that money spent on television commercials is probably a waste, his campaign still aired almost as many ads as Cruzs (if far fewer than Rubio or Bush) in South Carolina. Finally, while the hallmark of Trumps campaign has been giant rallies, hes used the names collected at those events for old-fashioned telephone drives to get out the vote on election days. Whats more productive? his South Carolina campaign manager asked. Having 10,000 people in one night [at a rally], or having 100 people go bang on 5000 doors and half of them being empty? In short, Trumps campaign isnt all that chaotic. Its a well-designed amalgam of old and new that makes good use of the candidates reality-TV strengths. The results are striking: In recent polls, Trump is running ahead of Rubio in Florida, ahead of Kasich in Ohio and close to Cruz in Texas. Hes still divisive, uncivil and mendacious. Hes still the most unconventional candidate weve seen in a long time but part of his crazy genius is that hes not as unconventional as he pretends. doyle.mcmanus@latimes.com Twitter: @doylemcmanus Hoy: Lea esta historia en espanol Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook Wading in to the contentious presidential race that he once considered joining, Vice President Joe Biden told California Democrats at the partys convention here that the Republican candidates havent changed their positions, only their tone. They havent changed at all, folks, said Biden. Theyve just gotten meaner. Biden ended his swing through the Bay Area Saturday with a speech in front of a standing-room-only crowd of Democratic state delegates and activists, an almost hour-long defense of the partys values and a focus on the needs of middle-class voters. Prior to arriving at the San Jose convention, the vice president and his wife held an event on cancer research at UC San Francisco. Sunday, he will attend the Oscars in Los Angeles. Advertisement But in his address to Democrats, Biden sounded many of the themes that could have easily fit into a campaign for the White House that he declined to launch last fall. The middle class has gotten clobbered, he said on the impact of the nations recession and post-recession years. Now, were in a position to get them back in the saddle. Biden defended the Obama administrations efforts on healthcare and the call for tuition-free community college. Clenching his fists and raising his voice almost into a shout, the vice president pleaded for a higher minimum wage and more child care benefits for single-parent families. No one should work 40 hours a week and still live in poverty! Biden yelled, to applause from the crowd of California Democrats. His speech was nearing its conclusion as the results of the South Carolina Democratic primary came in, and news that former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton had won a resounding victory. Biden offered his congratulations to Clinton from the podium, but also said he was proud of both of them, a reference to Clinton and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. When an audience member shouted out that Biden should be running, the veteran politician waved it off. Weve got good candidates, he said, smiling. The vice president criticized GOP presidential candidates for what he said was a misplaced perception of what makes the nation great. What these guys dont get is we are valued around the world because of our values, not just our physical power, said Biden. He also called for ending some business tax breaks, and for a change in the culture of corporate America. Since when is the only corporate responsibility to shareholders? he asked. The speech was briefly interrupted by a protester who unfurled a large banner that claimed Bidens late son, Beau, became ill with cancer because of cellphones. The protester was quickly ushered out, even though Biden said his son would have appreciated the mans passion. And in a nod to the rowdy GOP events of the campaign season, he then said, Let him go. Dont act like Republicans. john.myers@latimes.com Follow @johnmyers on Twitter, sign up for our daily Essential Politics newsletter and listen to the weekly California Politics ALSO: Live coverage from the California Democratic Party convention Senate hopefuls woo delegates in hopes of securing party nod Updates from the campaign trail Following landslide S.C. victory, Clinton sets sights on Trump After starting small, the presidential campaign has exploded into a nationwide contest that on Tuesday could all but decide the Democratic and Republican nominating fights. Twelve states from Alaska to Massachusetts will hold caucuses and primaries that day, awarding a big chunk of the delegates needed to secure the two major party nominations. The balloting marks a fundamental shift, away from the close-quarters campaigning in states like Iowa and New Hampshire and the drive for momentum that came with winning or, for the second- and third-place finishers, beating expectations. Advertisement TRAIL GUIDE: All the latest news on the 2016 presidential campaign >> From here out, the race is about cold, hard mathematics and piling up convention delegates. Democrat Hillary Clinton and Republican Donald Trump, who start out ahead after winning three of four opening contests, seem likely to expand their lead in the delegate count Tuesday, or Super Tuesday as it has come to be known. The question is whether their margins prove insurmountable. If Clinton stretches out to a 100-delegate lead, it will be tough to catch up, said Josh Putnam, a University of Georgia expert on the nominating process. On the Republican side, there is a little more leeway. But a lot of chips have to fall in line for anyone to be able to overcome Trump at this point. That is not say the presidential contests will end any time soon. Sen. Bernie Sanders of Vermont, Clintons sole challenger, has signaled his intention to stay in the race through Californias June 7 primary. Clinton and Sanders are not that far apart in pledged delegates. But Clinton enjoys a massive advantage among super delegates, party leaders and other elected officials who can support whomever they choose. To catch up, much less overtake Clinton in delegates, Sanders will have to perform far better than he has in every state save New Hampshire, which he won handily. That could be difficult. Seven of the states voting Tuesday are in the South, where, unlike New Hampshire, black voters make up a significant part of the Democratic electorate. African Americans have been among Clintons most loyal constituents; in her landslide victory Saturday in South Carolina, she won nearly 9 in 10 black votes. We got decimated, Sanders acknowledged Sunday on NBCs Meet the Press. Sanders will also be hampered by the way Democrats award their delegates. Even a candidate who loses a state can win a generous share. That system undercut Clinton when she ran for president in 2008; she won several big states against then-Sen. Barack Obama but was never able to overcome the delegate lead he built early on. Under the proportional system its very hard for someone to close even a small gap, said Putnam, whose website, frontloading.blogspot.com, charts the nominating contest. The rules on the Republican side are different; some of the delegates are awarded on a winner-take-all basis. But the climb is no less steep for rivals trying to push past Trump. On Sunday, the GOP race descended into a new round of insults. Sen. Ted Cruz of Texas made unsubstantiated claims that Trump may have Mafia ties. Trump disparaged Little Marco Rubio as a lightweight. Sen. Rubio, of Florida, called Trump unelectable after he failed to repudiate the endorsement of former Ku Klux Klan leader David Duke. The candidate with perhaps the most at stake Tuesday is Cruz, the winner of the Iowa caucuses and the only candidate to beat Trump in a presidential contest. He is favored to carry his home state, though he may not get all of its 155 delegates, which are allotted proportionally. Cruz has focused his campaign on winning the support of evangelical Christians and the most ideologically conservative voters, and Super Tuesday, with its Southern flavor, was supposed to be his breakout moment. The region is the most religious and conservative in the country. Surprisingly, though, it is the irreligious Trump who has done best among evangelical voters in carrying New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada, and he leads most polls ahead of Tuesday. A poor showing could in effect end Cruzs campaign. Trumps other main rivals, Rubio and Ohio Gov. John Kasich, finished second in South Carolina and New Hampshire, respectively. They have every incentive to hang on until their home states vote March 15 in big winner-take-all primaries. One or the other could make up considerable ground if he starts winning March 8 in Michigan, in Florida and Ohio the following week and after that in big states such as Wisconsin, New Jersey and California. But neither Rubio nor Kasich can afford a Super Tuesday shutout. The fifth candidate in the race, retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson, has not come close to winning any contest and that is unlikely to change Tuesday. In 2012, former Sen. Rick Santorum of Pennsylvania finished a surprising first in Iowa and strongly challenged the front-running Mitt Romney until the former Massachusetts governor and eventual GOP nominee began pulling away on Super Tuesday. You need to have the news networks put up your face and declare you a winner somewhere, said John Brabender, who was Santorums chief strategist in 2012 and remains neutral in this years race. It may not make a huge difference in the delegate count, he said, but its important to claim some measure of victory. Perceptions, he said, matter. mark.barabak@latimes.com Twitter: @markzbarabak ALSO What a Donald Trump presidency might actually look like A threat ahead: California Democrats losing the fight for younger voters Delegate tracker: Whos winning the race to the nomination? David Duke speaks out about Donald Trumps disavowal: Do whatever you need to do to get elected David Duke, the former Ku Klux Klan leader who plans to vote for Donald Trump, on Monday laughed off the GOP front-runners disavowal. Thats fine. Look, Donald Trump do whatever you need to do to get elected to this country because we need a change, Duke said in an appearance on The Alan Colmes Show on Fox News Radio. Duke, a former Louisiana legislator, said during the Monday interview that he regretted his involvement with the KKK, but also blamed Jewish people in the media for negative coverage of Trump. He even used a spin on the Oscars so white meme to make his point. "Theres no question the Jewish establishment despises, hates and fears Donald Trump and theyve gone crazy, Duke said. He added that he fears that the government is trying to destroy Americans of European ancestry, but insisted he does not hate all Jews. In fact, I really admire the Jews whove stood up against Jewish racism, Jewish tribalists. The reason they have this power in America, the reason they control Hollywood Hollywood is not so white, its so Jewish, Duke said. Trump was facing heat for his refusal Sunday to renounce the support of Duke, a onetime Louisiana gubernatorial and presidential candidate, during a CNN interview. Trump later said he couldnt hear host Jake Tapper because of a faulty earpiece. Rival Marco Rubio said not rejecting Duke disqualifies the businessman from the presidency. Trump pointed to his disavowal of Duke during a news conference Friday. Free tuition at public colleges and universities its a rallying cry in Bernie Sanders presidential campaign, and it sounds like an effective strategy for ensuring that the widest range of students can graduate from college without burdensome debt. But zero tuition actually runs counter to Sanders core principle of reducing income inequality. In this case, what sounds good is not. Sanders is correct in emphasizing the importance of higher education in reducing income inequality. The evidence is overwhelming that the single most effective mechanism for narrowing the gap between the wealthy and the poor in the United States is a college education. Indeed, studies by many different investigators, such as Henry Brady of Berkeley and Michael Hout of New York University, have shown that over a lifetime, people with a four-year college education will earn at least a million dollars more over their lifetimes than those with only a high school diploma. Thus, we need strategies that will enable public universities to provide excellent educations for students, without saddling those students with crippling debt. Zero tuition actually runs counter to Bernie Sanders core principle of reducing income inequality. Advertisement The way that we accomplish this now is principally through return to aid. It is, simply put, a mechanism for redistributing wealth within universities. At the overwhelming majority of public universities, a significant portion (typically one third) of the tuition paid by well-to-do students is returned to low income students in the form of financial aid. In the University of California system, those who can afford tuition will spend about $14,000 a year for in-state tuition and fees, and $38,000 for out-of-state tuition and fees. Low income California residents already pay no tuition at all; it is covered by state-funded Cal Grants. The return to aid program, along with federal Pell grants, then helps low-income students with educational expenses other than tuition: food, shelter, books and computers, which typically make up over half of the total cost of attending college. At Berkeley and Davis, return to aid from international students provides significant financial aid for middle class Californians too. In other states, return to aid helps students with both living needs and tuition expenses, usually in combination with state and federal grants. Whatever the mix, return to aid is an essential element of support for students who otherwise could not possibly attend college. A significant portion ... of the tuition paid by well-to-do students is returned to low income students in the form of financial aid. Sanders plan, in contrast, would increase taxes on the wealthy and on corporations to pay the basic cost of educating all students, rich and poor. Superficially, its an appealing idea, but it would be counterproductive to increase taxes to enable students from well-off families to attend college for free. Zeroing out tuition nationally would require tripling public funding for most state colleges and universities. It is entirely unrealistic to believe that taxes would be increased enough to provide that funding. The share for return to aid would certainly drop and probably disappear, defunding low income students. The past decade has seen unprecedented disinvestments by states in higher education. Shockingly, at least 12 states, including California, now spend more money putting people in prison than they do educating them. In spite of a much improved economy, public funding of the University of California is still meager. For example, in 2004, the state provided 29% of Berkeleys budget; now it is about 12% and shows no sign of improving. If a newly elected President Sanders were able to increase tax revenue what reason is there to believe that it would go to higher education? Much attention is paid to the student debt crisis, but because of return to aid and Cal Grants, students who graduate from the University of California have the lowest debt load of any public research university graduates in the nation about $18,000 for those students (slightly more than half) who finish school with any debt at all. It is presumed by zero tuition enthusiasts that free tuition will go hand in hand with lessening income inequality in the United States; in fact, it will mean the exact opposite. Fewer low income students will be able afford the full cost of going to college. In my view, the financially well off can and should pay for the excellent public education they receive at UC and other public universities around the country. The last thing we want to do is to take away the single most reliable mechanism of income redistribution already in place: return to aid. Said starkly, zero tuition equals zero low income students. Robert J. Birgeneau was chancellor of UC Berkeley from 2004 to 2013. He now teaches public policy, and physics, materials science and engineering at Berkeley. Follow the Opinion section on Twitter @latimesopinion and Facebook ALSO Here are the new emoticons Facebook really needs Gun silencers are useful, not scary Why Texas matters politically more than ever The state Democratic Party convention held here over the weekend presented an occasionally jarring contrast: Democrats gathered at what seemed like a 50th college reunion for veteran politicians, and at the same time one of the biggest rounds of applause came at the mention of Bernie Sanders, the presidential candidate few of those politicians support. The split, largely generational given the youthful tilt of the Vermont senators supporters, underscored a hard truth for California Democrats that was barely discussed during the celebratory convention: Numbers-wise, the partys heading for trouble. Thats not to suggest that Democrats are about to lose elections in California; they retain strength at the ballot box. But as those who built the party into supremacy in the 1990s age out, Democrats are having a hard time attracting newer voters, who are allying themselves with no party at all. They are choosing, if they register, to officially be nonpartisan. Advertisement For now, the effect on Democrats has been limited because those independent voters, bridling at the conservative views of national Republicans, have had nowhere to go but with the states biggest party. But it was not hard to hear the clarion of future dissent when Sen. Barbara Boxer made a glancing reference to the presidential contest on Saturday. Whether you want to say Madame President or whether you are Feeling the Bern we have to stand together, she said. Applause for Hillary Clinton, the partys national and statewide frontrunner, was drowned out by cheers for Sanders. See the most-read stories this hour >> And that was among committed Democrats. Broaden the universe of voters and the problems get worse. The birth of the current California Democratic Party dates to 1992, when the state elected two Democratic women senators, Dianne Feinstein and Boxer, who has announced her retirement as of the November election. California also sided with a Democrat, Bill Clinton, in that years presidential contest, breaking a Republican streak that had held since 1964. Republicans went on to win the governors race in 1994, but its been downhill since, with the exception of Arnold Schwarzeneggers two elections. In November of 1992, there were almost 7,410,914 Democrats in the state, out of 15.1 million registered voters. Now, the number of registered voters has increased by almost 2.2 million, but the number of Democrats has risen by less than 28,000 voters. Democrats have looked good, of course, because Republicans are imploding. From 1992 until now, the second-biggest party has lost more than 826,000 voters. Statewide, almost all of the new voters registered as nonpartisan. Join the conversation on Facebook >> At a Saturday convention panel focused on millennial voters roughly those 35 and under voting analyst Paul Mitchell issued a warning to Democrats. Republicans are dying, he said. But Democrats arent converting ... young minority voters who are the base of the Democratic Party. Of the 10 cities with the highest percentages of independent voters, he said, all but one are Latino-majority cities. That is jarring, since Democratic strength in the last generation has been built on the growing Latino population. Eric Swalwell, 35, the East Bay congressman who organized the panel, said the strong support for Sanders in the presidential contest was a warning to the partys older establishment. Regardless of whether youre with Bernie Sanders or Hillary Clinton, theres no question that right how Bernie Sanders has the overwhelming majority of the millennials, said Swalwell, who endorsed Clinton after his first choice, former Maryland Gov. Martin OMalley, dropped out. Whoever is the candidate, as a party we have to understand why that is the case. Why thats the case is the candidates themselves. To young voters for whom she has been a life-long presence, Clinton looks like a captive of establishment politics. Sanders, with his call to political revolution, is the blunt-speaking fresh face. Interested in the stories shaping California? Sign up for the free Essential California newsletter >> Authenticity is so, so important for millennials, Swalwell said. Being able to really just speak without being seen as beholden to anyone is critically important. Democrats have emphasized issues of importance to younger voters. Sanders and Clinton have offered differing proposals making college less expensive or, in Sanders case, free. Their focus on lagging wages, immigration reform and voting rights is also aimed at the new voters who have less affinity with partisan politics. The Republican candidates for president are delaying the reckoning for Democrats. At the weekend convention, nearly every speaker blistered Donald Trump and other GOP candidates as hopelessly out of touch. They havent changed at all, folks, Vice President Joe Biden said Saturday. Theyve just gotten meaner. The Republican fields effort to turn back the clock on Democratic gains under President Obama has left both parties waging the wars of the past in this presidential year. Change is coming to California Democrats. The next governor, to be elected in 2018, will most certainly be younger than 77-year-old Jerry Brown. The main competitors for the 75-year-old Boxers seat are in their 50s. If Feinstein, who is now 82, retires in 2018, her replacement also will be younger. Age is not an impediment to attracting the young, as Sanders, at 74, has proved this year. But new faces and a look to the future may give Democrats a way to figure out how to preserve their power. cathleen.decker@latimes.com For political news and analysis, follow me on Twitter: @cathleendecker . For more on politics, go to latimes.com/decker. ALSO: Full coverage of the California Democratic Party convention Watch Boxers speech at party activists Biden to California Democrats: Republicans are meaner than they used to be Republican voter registration tanks in California Dispatches from the campaign trail Im Christina Bellantoni, the Essential Politics host today. Lets get started. The California Democratic Party convention over the weekend showcased the partys leaders, both seasoned and up-and-coming, as delegates questioned how relevant the June 7 primary might be in the presidential race. Theres a lot more to that ballot, with the Senate contest between Rep. Loretta Sanchez and Atty. Gen. Kamala Harris getting the most attention atop several hot congressional races. Advertisement At the convention, Harris shattered all expectations the party might stay neutral and overwhelmingly captured the official Democratic nod. Team Sanchez was insistent that it was always an uphill climb for her to win the endorsement, and pledged to fight it out and make it to the general election. For all the excitement in the room, Cathleen Decker writes, the event also exposed a difficult truth for the party in power: the passage of time. The reality is that, as those who built the party into supremacy in the 1990s age out, Democrats are having a hard time attracting newer voters, who are allying themselves with no party at all. There was plenty of red meat as Democrats consider their strong position in California this fall, with Vice President Joe Biden spending nearly an hour outlining party principles and saying Republicans are meaner now than theyve ever been. HUERTA FAMILY GETS RESULTS Emilio Huerta, one of two Democrats running for Congress against GOP Rep. David Valadao in the Central Valley, devoted his weekend at the convention to drawing enough support to block Daniel Parra from the state party endorsement. Javier Panzar explains how he did it and why it matters in a race Democrats believe they have a chance to win. Our team was all over the convention, using our latimespolitics Snapchat account and liveblogging. Catch up quick here. FROM PALMETTO STATE BLOWOUT TO INSULTS ON THE TRAIL It was quite a weekend in presidential politics, with Hillary Clinton earning 73.5% of the vote in South Carolina thanks to overwhelming support from black voters and both candidates looking to the 11 Democratic contests tomorrow. Decker evaluates whats next for Sen. Bernie Sanders in the contests ahead. The weekends action and low blows happened mostly on the GOP side. Lisa Mascaro rounded up the jibes and jabs between Sen. Marco Rubio and Donald Trump, before anyone was talking about the size of their rivals hands or the color of their spray tan. Mark Z. Barabak outlines why Super Tuesday is so important to both parties, and our political team spent some time envisioning both a Trump nomination and a Trump presidency. Decker detailed the possible Trump down-ticket effect in California. David Lauter, Noah Bierman and Michael Finnegan deliver a detailed look at how Trump might govern should he make it to the White House. You can keep up with whats happening on the campaign trail all day long on Trail Guide, and dont miss our handy delegate tracker. WHITMAN UNLOADS ON CHRISTIE An astonishing display of political opportunism. That was Meg Whitman expressing white-hot anger at New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie whom she supported and helped raise money for for backing Trump. CONGRESSWOMAN VOWS TO STAY IN RACE AFTER STROKE Rep. Grace Napolitano suffered a mild stroke in February, she disclosed Friday. Panzar talked with her as she pledged to continue with her re-election bid despite facing a challenge from a Democratic Assemblymember. COURT GIVES BROWN A BOOST AFTER SETBACK The California Supreme Court on Friday evening allowed Gov. Jerry Brown and his political allies to begin gathering voter signatures for a November ballot measure to revamp prison parole policy, a temporary victory until the justices determine whether state officials properly followed election laws. The signature-collection work was already getting going at the convention over the weekend. REFLECTIONS FROM ATKINS Melanie Mason sat down with outgoing Assembly Speaker Toni Atkins to find out her lessons learned, proudest moments, and what its really like to work with Brown. PODCAST: DETACHED CALIFORNIA VOTERS In addition to an analysis of the governors new challenges in pushing forward his ballot measure on prison parole, this weeks California Politics Podcast takes a closer look at new voter registration data. Sacramento Bureau Chief John Myers leads a discussion on what the trend toward voters detached from political parties -- independent voters -- might mean for the state. Sign up for the weekly podcast here. TODAYS ESSENTIALS -- Sarah Wire reports that Rep. Mimi Walters is using the ongoing fight over replacing Justice Antonin Scalia in the U.S. Supreme Court in a fundraising pitch Thursday. My efforts on Capitol Hill will only continue if I successfully defend my seat in Congress, and with time running out in February, Ive just learned from my campaign team that were more than $3,500 short of our crucial February fundraising goal, she writes. -- President Obama nominated Judge Lucy Haeran Koh to the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. If confirmed, she will be first Korean American woman on an appeals court. -- Female lawmakers are pressuring Anthony Rendon, the incoming speaker of the Assembly, to put more women in leadership positions. -- Elections officials traded notes on the best way to boost voter turnout at an event in Los Angeles. -- Matt Pearce has the back story of political calls to build up a U.S.-Mexico wall. -- Steve Lopez states the obvious, with a lot of flair: Trump is not popular in the Eastside of Los Angeles. -- Will Trump release his tax returns? -- Trump was questioned about Mussolini and the KKK following a Gawker prank and a violent outbreak at a KKK rally in Anaheim over the weekend. -- Weve got the details of the Trump University lawsuit. LOGISTICS Did someone forward you this? Sign up here to get Essential Politics in your inbox daily. And keep an eye on our politics page throughout the day for the latest and greatest. And are you following us on Twitter at @latimespolitics? Please send thoughts, concerns and news tips to politics@latimes.com. Culminating a prolonged, wonky debate that has consumed the Capitol for months, legislators on Monday approved a new tax on healthcare plans that would help finance the states public healthcare program for the poor. The package of bills which await Gov. Jerry Browns signature would overhaul a tax on managed care organizations (MCOs), in an effort to secure more than $1 billion in federal money to help pay for Medi-Cal, which serves a third of the states population. I cant emphasize enough the importance of the MCO financing proposal here before us today, Assemblyman Rob Bonta (D-Alameda) said on the floor. We cannot risk losing this much-needed federal funding, Bonta added. We need to continue funding the expansion of healthcare coverage and protect programs from cuts during future budget deficits. Todays proposal will allow us to do both. The new tax required bipartisan votes to clear the two-thirds vote threshold. Some normally tax-averse Republicans said they were supportive of the plan in part because it eliminated certain levies for health insurers, reducing the companies overall tax burdens. GOP lawmakers also were swayed by companion spending measures that increased money for services for the developmentally disabled and paid down state debts. Collectively, we came up with something thats really good, said Assemblyman Brian Maienschein, a San Diego Republican. But not all Republicans were won over. What about the consumers, asked state Sen. Jeff Stone (R-Murrieta), questioning the assertion that there would be no costs passed along by the healthcare plans. When we raise taxes, someones got to pay the bill. What is the tax plan? Health insurers would be taxed according to a elaborately tiered system, based on the number of Medi-Cal and non-Medi-Cal patients each plan serves. Kaiser Permanente, a large nonprofit, has its own designated tax rate. Certain small local plans in Sacramento and San Diego counties are exempted entirely. The new levy is offset by tax relief; corporation and gross premium taxes would be rolled back. In all, the package would generate around $1.35 billion for the state. And with the eliminated taxes, the health plans as a whole would actually come out ahead by about $100 million. Sound complicated? It is. Brown joked with reporters during his budget rollout that "very few people understand [the so-called MCO tax]. ... I couldnt explain it to you if I wanted to." Follow what's happening in Sacramento on our Essential Politics news feed Why is this necessary? California currently imposes a tax only on the managed care organizations that serve Medi-Cal clients; the plans are then fully reimbursed with federal dollars. But the Obama administration has said such a tax structure doesn't comply with federal rules. To draw down federal funds, the administration said, the state must tax all healthcare plans. The state's existing tax expires at the end of June. The Brown administration negotiated with health plans for over a year to hammer out a replacement tax package in order to avoid losing more than $1 billion for Medi-Cal. How do Republicans feel about the proposal? It depends who you ask. Republicans are typically loath to approve new taxes, and there are certainly GOP legislators who have rejected this proposal as a tax hike. But others have been friendlier to the package, in part because of the traditional GOP allies on board. Most health insurers, including major players such as Blue Shield, Anthem and a trade group, the California Assn. of Health Plans, are in support and have said the new proposal will not affect consumers. The California Chamber of Commerce also backs the plan, and the Howard Jarvis Taxpayers Assn., an influential anti-tax group, is neutral. SIGN UP for our free Essential Politics newsletter >> Because the tax proposal required a two-thirds vote in the Legislature, some Republican support was crucial the legislation needed at least one GOP vote in the Senate and at least three Republican "ayes" in the Assembly. Ultimately, two Republicans in the Senate and 11 in the Assembly voted yes on the tax measure. All Democrats present on Monday voted aye. With that leverage, some Republicans pushed for policy priorities. The Assembly GOP laid out its wish list of spending it would like to see with the money made possible by a new tax. Some conservative activists aren't thrilled by the Assembly GOP's bargaining. Grover Norquist, an anti-tax crusader, said such negotiating is bad policy and terrible politics. Jon Fleischman, publisher of the influential conservative news site Flash Report, has been excoriating Republican members who are signaling support. What else was voted on? There were two other measures approved Monday. One would put about $300 million into services for the developmentally disabled, including higher wages for staff at regional centers and increased money to support independent-living programs. Legislators in both parties have been agitating for more funding for such services for several years. That bill also includes one of the items on the Assembly GOP priority list: about $120 million for certain nursing facilities to offset cuts that were passed five years ago. The second bill deals with paying down the state's debts. It would allocate $240 million toward paying off the state's liabilities for retiree healthcare for public workers. It also would pay back a $173-million transportation loan. Debt repayment has been a priority for the Republicans and for the governor. What comes next? The tax structure still needs to be approved by the Obama administration. State officials say they're confident that the plan will pass muster. Follow @melmason for more on California government and politics. ALSO Live updates from Sacramento: Follow the debate My husband and I are both 65, and we are frequent travelers outside of the U.S. We both applied for the Global Entry program, and I was approved. My husband, however, was denied, he was told in a letter in May, because he had two incidents on his record from 1968 and 1970. The first was a shoplifting arrest that was the result of a misunderstanding, and the charge was dropped. The second was a petty theft charge: He and his college roommate took a chair from a university dumpster to put in their room. They were put under supervision for five months and told that their record would be expunged. My husband was asked to provide Global Entry with documentation of these outcomes. For the first incident, the clerk of Cook County, Ill., provided a letter saying the records for these types of petty offenses are destroyed after 15 years. For the second incident, we provided a letter from the Chicago Police Department with respect to the supervision. Since that time, my husband has had a spotless record. We appealed the denial decision in June. We heard nothing, so we sent a follow-up on Aug. 3. We still have not heard anything, and the Global Entry office in L.A. tells me they have nothing to do with appeals. There is no phone number or email, only an address for U.S. Customs and Border Protection in Williston, Vt. Name withheld Los Angeles Answer: Answer: About a week after we asked Customs and Border Protection about this application, the husband received a letter saying his application was approved. Might be coincidence. Might not. But the important point is that this man now will be able to use a Customs kiosk when he returns from travel abroad and, as a bonus, enjoy life in the fast-through-security-lane at Transportation Security Administrations airport checkpoints. Advertisement Those are the privileges you get for five years when you pay your $100 and go to an interview with Customs about your application. You can read more about Global Entry at www.lat.ms/24mtGbH. So far, the program has about 2.8 million members. It receives 70,000 to 80,000 applications a month. Of those applications, about 1% are denied. The husband told me that at his interview he was asked if he had ever been arrested. He said no. He said the agent said, Are you sure about that? Well come back to that. When the issue was revisited, the husband explained what had happened. He later received the letter denying his application. Run-ins with the law can follow you even if you have discharged your responsibilities. I learned that from two other readers who shared their stories with me. Both were stopped at Customs upon returning to the United States because of arrests more than 30 years earlier. One had been charged with drug possession; the case was dismissed. The paperwork documenting his case had long been destroyed, so getting it expunged might have been a challenge. This is a fellow who had retired, by the way, from a long career serving and protecting the public. The other reader was detained upon returning by car from Canada. He had once been arrested on a weapons charge, had made restitution and never had another incident. Heres the most disquieting part: How, where and why is this information available, especially if the court records arent? The answer, a Customs official told me, may be an FBI database or it could be fingerprints you provide. We cant know for sure where this mans information came from because, another Customs official told me in an email, The Privacy Act prohibits U.S. Customs and Border Protection from providing information regarding individual travelers. I understand that, although the husband provided me with the documentation he gave Customs so I can clearly see his indiscretions, if they were, indeed, that. He and his wife say his record since has been spotless. The Customs officials email went on to say, If the reader feels his Trusted Traveler application was denied due to inaccurate or incomplete information, then he may provide additional documentation to the CBP Trusted Traveler Ombudsman and request reconsideration. This link provides more information about how to request a review of a Trusted Travel Program denial. I explained that he had already done that. Now what? Apparently, it is waiting. A line on the Global Entry website said an appeal could take months, and when I asked Customs how many months that meant, the answer was as much as eight months. You can try emailing the ombudsman. If 1% of applications are denied, that means 700 to 800 each month require a second look. Staff has been added in the years since Global Entry started to deal with appeals of denial, which is an improvement. It used to be that any offense was an automatic denial, no exceptions. Now there is a chance you can explain and/or Customs will exercise some critical thinking. The husband was philosophical about his application, he said in a phone conversation before Customs reversed its decision. This [denial of Global Entry] isnt the worst thing in the world. My life is not threatened. I have plenty to be thankful for. If this is the government I have, I guess I can live with it. And, he added, I think its human nature to look at things that arent working and figure out a solution. Maybe Customs is on the path to doing that. Have a travel dilemma? Write travel@latimes.com. We regret we cannot answer every inquiry. Is Leap Day the new Cyber Monday? Companies are using Monday as a time to offer special rates and one-day flash sales that can be booked only on Feb. 29. FULL COVERAGE: Cruise reviews, deals and news Here are six I like, but feel free to browse to find more deals. Advertisement 1. Hard Rock Cafe: Restaurants across the U.S. are offering those born on Feb. 29 (yes, you must show a valid ID) a free entree from a Leaplings Eat Free menu. Hard Rocks Legendary Burger and Twisted Mac, Chicken & Cheese are being served as well as a Veggie Leggie for the meatless Monday crowd. 2. Intrepid Travel: Leap Day shoppers can save 25% off trips to Italy, Spain, Portugal and Poland with this travel company based in Petaluma, Calif. You can preview the trips on the flash sale page. Some examples, before the discount: eight days in Spain starting at $958, four-day sailing trips from Italys Amalfi Coast starting at $810 and a Rome-to-Paris tour starting at $4,260. Use the promotion code 20581; you must travel by Sept. 30. Info: 24-Hour Leap Day Sale 3. Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City: This is the kind of crazy-good birthday promotions I like. Leap Year babies pay their true age if youre 40, you are really only 10 years old for a room. Thats right, $10 a night at this Kimpton boutique hotel. Your stay includes morning coffee and tea, evening social hour, free Wi-Fi and reward points. You must stay by March 31 and show a valid ID upon arrival. For those who happen to be in Salt Lake City on Monday, you can swing by the hotel for a Leap Day birthday party (open to all) with Champagne and cake between 5 and 7 p.m. Info: Hotel Monaco Salt Lake City Leap Year Birthday 4. Embassy Row Hotel: Book two nights on Feb. 29 at this Dupont Circle hotel in Washington, D.C., and you get a third night free. Youll also get a $50 credit to use for valet parking or food and drink at the hotels eateries. This hotel belongs in the Destination Hotels family too. Info: Embassy Row Hotel 5. Royal Caribbean International: The cruise lines Leap Day Sale promises 30% off current fares on every ship, which means you save on cruises in the Caribbean, Alaska and Europe. In addition, passengers can enjoy half-off deposits and on-board credits of up to $100 per cabin. (Note: This is the cruise line whose Anthem of the Seas in mid-February sailed into an East Coast storm and was turned back after being battered at sea. At least one passenger has filed suit against the company, according to media reports.) The offer applies to cruises leaving on or after March 28; act quickly, the sale ends Monday. Info: Royal Caribbean International, (866) 562-7625, or contact a travel agent 6. Friendly Planet Travel: If the Middle East is on your travel list this year, you might consider a trip to Dubai. The Dazzling Dubai package from Friendly Planet includes round-trip Los Angeles-Dubai airfare and four nights in hotels starting at $1,299. You can tour the city or add on excursions to the desert and nearby Abu Dhabi. Sale ends at 9 p.m. Pacific time Monday (midnight on the East Coast). Info: Friendly Planet Travels Dazzling Dubai, (800) 555-5765 ALSO Get more Mama Mia on your next cruise with these concerts at sea Oscar-winning travels: 6 filming locations that will make you want to go Famous faces turn up in Las Vegas at this exhibition of portraits at the Bellagio Taste a bit of Napa Valley on these cruise ships with menus by Thomas Keller Anyone who bet that American Airlines would turn its attention to its AAdvantage frequent-flier program after completing its merger with US Airways wins that bet. The question now: Do travelers lose? Here are the details on what American is doing, how it will affect you and strategies to help you prepare for the change. But first, a small reminder: You earn two kinds of miles when you fly. One gets you those sought-after but sometimes elusive free tickets. The other kind is elite-qualifying miles, a status that gets you such special perks as priority check-in and boarding, and free checked bags. Advertisement Navigating the new awards chart. The overhaul of Americans awards chart goes into effect March 22. It will include increasing redemption requirements on some of its own flights and those of its partners. Most economy redemptions, including those in the 48 contiguous states and to Europe, will remain the same. A few, such as those to Asia and Australia (and a special category of off-peak awards to Europe), are increasing a little, and others, such as those to the Caribbean, Mexico and Central America, are decreasing. The big shifts are for business- and first-class awards. The amount you need for first-class awards within the U.S. and to South America, Europe, Asia and the South Pacific will increase dramatically. For instance, the miles needed for first-class awards from North America to Southeast Asia will go up from 67,500 miles each way to 110,000 miles, a 63% increase. Earning miles. The number of redeemable miles that is, the miles that get you those awards tickets you earn on American has been generally based on the distance flown, the cabin you fly in or the fare class of your ticket (ranging from discount economy to full-fare first class) and on your elite status. But starting in the second half of the year (the exact date hasnt been announced), fliers will earn redeemable miles based on the price of their airfare and their elite status. Regular AAdvantage members will earn five redeemable miles per dollar spent on airfare; elites will earn seven to 11 miles per dollar spent. These earning tiers mean that mileage-earning is weighted more heavily in favor of fliers for whom price is not always the overriding consideration. Getting elite status. American Airlines is simplifying its qualification requirements for elite status. In the past, fliers could qualify based on the number of miles or flight segments (if you flew from Los Angeles to New York but connected in Chicago, that would count as two flight segments) flown in a calendar year. Fliers could also qualify using an obscure points system that was based on the miles flown and the fare classes of tickets. Qualifying based on segments remains the same; fliers earn one elite-qualifying segment per segment flown no matter the fare class. But for 2016, American has combined its points and mileage systems so fliers now earn between one and three elite-qualifying miles per mile flown, depending on the fare class of the ticket they buy. (Most economy fares will earn one elite-qualifying mile per mile flown. Business- and first-class tickets will earn two or three miles, respectively.) Budget-minded travelers will have to fly a lot more to earn the same status as their counterparts in the premium cabins. Heres how to prepare for these changes: If you can, fly sooner rather than later. In general, travelers looking to get the lowest airfares will do better under the current distance-based mileage-earning formula rather than the new airfare price-based formula. For instance, a $350 round-trip economy ticket from Los Angeles to New York would earn 4,750 redeemable miles today, but just 1,750 to 3,850 (depending on elite status) after the earning changes go into effect in the second half of the year. Book awards before March 22. Although the changes largely will not affect economy award redemptions, they will affect premium-cabin redemptions. If you wanted to redeem miles for a business- or first-class ticket, book before March 22. That is true even if you will need to change the dates of your trip. The airline has said it will honor current redemption rates if fliers change flight dates as long as the origin and destination remain the same. Maximize your credit cards. The changes to how fliers will earn and redeem miles make American Airlines co-branded credit cards even more important to your frequent-flier strategy. Besides earning more miles per dollar on airfare and enjoying elite-style benefits, you earn miles from everyday spending on those credit cards that will come in handy. travel@latimes.com A Pakistani filmmakers second Oscar victory prompted celebration in her home country Monday and renewed the spotlight on so-called honor killings, which claim thousands of womens lives every year in the South Asian nation. Honor killings are deeply embedded in South Asian culture, where arranged marriages are common and tradition subjugates women to the sometimes lethal authority of their male relatives. The government has pushed to hold some of the perpetrators accountable, and on Monday, two brothers were sentenced to death in the eastern city of Lahore for killing their sister and her husband after they married against the familys will. Advertisement But filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoys Oscar-winning documentary, A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness, has inspired new efforts to crack down on the deadly custom. Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif held a screening of the film at his official residence last week, the first time it was shown in Pakistan, and promised new government help in eradicating the practice. Women like Ms. Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy are not only a pride for the Pakistani nation but are also a significant source of contribution toward the march of civilization in the world, Sharif said in a statement after Sunday nights Oscar ceremony. But the power of film, and of international pressure, has its limits. Obaid-Chinoys documentary, which won in the short-subject documentary category, traces the story of Saba Qaiser, a teenage girl whose father shot her in the head and dumped her in a river for marrying a man her family didnt approve of. Qaiser survived the attack and sought justice, a rare story in Pakistan, where women and girls and a small number of men believed to have shamed their families are killed despite legislation outlawing the practice. Loopholes exist in Pakistani law under which survivors can forgive their assailants often husbands, fathers and brothers and allow them to escape serious punishment. In the end, thats what happened in Qaisers case: Tribal leaders put pressure on her to pardon her father and uncle for attacking her. Ultimately, her husbands older brother persuaded Qaiser to forgive them We have to live in the same neighborhood, he said and they were set free. Her fathers defense was that he did the right thing, and that it would serve as a warning to his other daughters not to defy his wishes. After this incident, everyone says I am more respected, her father says in the film. I can proudly say that for generations to come none of my descendants will ever think of doing what Saba did. Many perpetrators are not charged in the first place, especially in rural, tribal areas where police may turn a blind eye. The Human Rights Commission of Pakistan documented nearly 500 deaths in honor killings last year, although advocacy groups believe that thousands of cases go unreported annually. After the films Oscar win, Sharif said in a statement that there is no place for killing in the name of honor in Islam, and vowed legislation to stop such brutal and inhumane acts. In her acceptance speech, Obaid-Chinoy drew applause when she said, This is what happens when determined women get together. This week the Pakistani prime minister has said that he will change the law on honor killing after watching this film, she said. That is the power of film. One step that Pakistani lawmakers could take immediately would be to revive a bill that eliminates the loopholes for those who perpetrate honor killings. The measure stalled in Pakistans parliament last year. But even with that, deep-seated cultural attitudes that sanction such violence persists in many parts of Pakistan. Pakistans rapidly urbanizing society has afforded women many more opportunities, but has not completely eroded traditional beliefs. In a 2013 Pew Research Center poll of Pakistanis, 84% of respondents said Islamic religious law should be the law of the land, and of that percentage nearly 9 in 10 favored stoning as a punishment for adultery. The voices that speak out against honor killings are a minority. The great majority of society is quite apathetic, writer Bina Shah said in an interview. There is a culture of male supremacy in this society and its taken for granted that men will dominate women. Chauvinistic people interpret this as women being the property of men. The 2014 Nobel Peace Prize went in part to Malala Yousafzai, the Pakistani teenager who was shot in the face for advocating education for girls but while she has received global acclaim, she has not yet been able to return to Pakistan, much less turn around conservative attitudes about schooling. Like Yousafzai, Obaid-Chinoy has been criticized in some quarters for spreading negative stories about Pakistan to a global audience. The filmmaker faced such a reaction for Saving Face, a previous documentary about victims of acid attacks in Pakistan, which won an Oscar in 2012. A Girl in the River is due to air on HBO in March. Special correspondent Aoun Sahi in Islamabad, Pakistan, contributed to this report. Follow @SBengali on Twitter for more news from South Asia ALSO Chris Rock handled the Oscars diversity issue as only Chris Rock could Chris Rocks hot mess of an Oscars show: powerful, confounding, possibly revolutionary Leonardo DiCaprio ties his work in The Revenant to a greater cause -- fighting climate change Student leaders of pro-democracy sit-ins in Hong Kong that attracted thousands in 2014 went on trial Monday for their involvement in what became known as the Umbrella Movement. Joshua Wong, 19, founder of high-school activist group Scholarism and the best-known face of the movement, is charged with participating in an unlawful assembly and inciting others to join. Nathan Law, 22, president of the college group Hong Kong Federation of Students, also was charged with one count of inciting; his predecessor, Alex Chow, 23, faces one count of participating in an unlawful assembly. They pleaded not guilty to all charges. Advertisement Today is the first time we stand trial. We cant go to school, Wong said to reporters gathering outside the courthouse. This trial isnt an easy thing for us, but we believe well find justice here. Hong Kong, a former British colony turned semi-autonomous Chinese territory of 7.3 million people, has maintained its own independent judiciary under a separate constitution which is to remain in force for 50 years after the 1997 transfer of sovereignty. Even so, there are concerns that Mondays trial may mark the beginning of a long season of political persecution in Hong Kong. This trial appears to be nothing more than political muscle flexing, targeting those who dared to stand up for freedom and democracy, and it continues a very disturbing trend, Christopher H. Smith (R-N.J.), chairman of the Congressional-Executive Commission on China, said in a statement last week. Calls by a local think tank closely affiliated with mainland China to name and shame judges considered too lenient on young activists have been condemned by the Hong Kong Bar Assn. Representatives from American, Australian and British consulates attended the trial Monday, which was presided over by Magistrate June Cheung. The atmosphere of Cheungs court was notably cordial a far cry from the scripted, stilted trials commonly broadcast in mainland China. The student leaders, who were allowed to remain seated with their counsels, mostly trained their attention on their phones rather than on the proceedings. They stood out in their hoodies and jeans in a courtroom full of black suits. The prosecution began by calling upon four police officers and one security guard to testify. When defense attorneys cross-examined some of the witnesses on the conformity of their affidavits, the student leaders grinned at each other. Dont laugh! This court is a solemn venue, said Cheung. I noticed the defendants and a few others snickering. The charges Wong and others face stem from the storming of a public plaza at the territorys main government compound by nearly 200 people, mostly university and high school students, at the end of a class boycott. It was staged in protest of the decision by the standing committee of Chinas National Peoples Congress to limit the choice of candidates for Hong Kongs highest office to the two or three candidates to be handpicked by a pro-Beijing committee. Immediately after the storming of the plaza, police arrested Chow, Wong and at least 70 others. During the student leaders daylong detention, demonstrators amassed and confronted police in riot gear, who failed to disperse the masses with force. The emboldened demonstrators then took over major roadways in encampments, which were eventfully cleared on court orders. Little political change resulted. In recent weeks, Wong and other activists have signaled a plan to bring the fight from the streets to the legislative chamber. The student group said its prepared to form a political party to field candidates to run for seats in the territorys legislature come September. Last year, Wong filed a judicial review on Hong Kongs electoral rules seeking to lower the minimum age to run from 21 to 18. For each of the charges the student leaders face, the maximum sentence is five years. Anyone who has served a sentence of 30 days or more cannot run for the legislature. However, Wong doesnt think the charges he faces will affect the political fortunes of his activist group. Law is a special correspondent. Syrian opposition groups reported renewed Russian airstrikes in Syria on Sunday, the second day of a provisional truce, but Moscow said the cease-fire appeared to be holding despite violations by rebel factions. A Saudi-based opposition umbrella group, the High Negotiations Committee, reported 26 Russian airstrikes on Sunday against rebel factions supposedly covered by the truce. The committee said at least 29 people had been killed and dozens injured in pro-government breaches since the truce began Saturday. Russia is allied with the government of Syrian President Bashar Assad. The committee assailed the alleged attacks and called on the United Nations to intervene immediately to stop the crimes committed against the Syrian people. Advertisement There was no independent confirmation of the reported attacks. NEWSLETTER: Get the days top headlines from Times Editor Davan Maharaj >> Russia, which said it postponed air attacks Saturday, the first day of the truce, did not provide details on its aerial operations Sunday. It was unclear whether the purported airstrikes targeted zones occupied by Al Nusra Front, the official Al Qaeda franchise in Syria, or Islamic State, the Al Qaeda breakaway faction that controls large stretches of territory in Syria and neighboring Iraq. A boy plays soccer on the roof of a building in Damascus, Syria, on Feb. 28. (Hassan Ammar / Associated Press) Al Nusra Front and Islamic State are excluded from the United Nations-backed truce. Both groups are defined as terrorist organizations by the United Nations. Russia has said it would continue to target terrorist groups in Syria. The head of the Saudi-based opposition committee, Riad Hijab, warned in a statement to the United Nations that continued attacks by the Syrian government and its allies were undermining the truce and the prospects for a political resolution of the Syrian crisis. The U.N. special envoy to Syria, Staffan de Mistura, has called for a new round of peace talks beginning March 7 in Geneva. An earlier round of talks collapsed in February in the face of deep disagreements on both sides. The interim cease-fire is regarded as the most extensive effort to date to halt the fighting in Syria, which has been battered by withering conflict for almost five years. The Syrian war has resulted in more than 200,000 deaths, caused widespread destruction and sent millions fleeing from their homes, contributing to a refugee crisis in Europe. Moscow intervened in the Syrian war five months ago on behalf of the Assad government. The Russian aerial onslaught has helped to shift the conflict in favor of Assads forces. But Russia has vowed to respect the truce, which was hammered out by Russian and U.S. negotiators. Russian authorities say they have been closely monitoring reported violations and have been in touch with U.S. authorities who are also watching the cease-fire. Russian authorities said they had recorded nine violations of the truce in a 24-hour period, mostly by opposition factions. The violations included shelling of Damascus, which is firmly in government hands, by armed groups based in the suburbs of the capital, Russia said. Russian Lt. Gen. Sergei Kuralenko, who heads Moscows cease-fire oversight efforts, said Sunday that the cessation had been generally observed, reported Russias Tass news agency. However, Russia charged that as many as 100 militants from Turkey had crossed the border into Syria over the weekend and participated in an attack on the northern Syrian city of Tal Abyad, which is under the control of U.S.-backed Kurdish forces. Shelling from Turkey also targeted the Syrian side, Kuralenko told reporters. Russia was seeking clarification on the incident from the United States, which heads a anti-Islamic State coalition that includes Turkey. There was no immediate reaction on the incident from Washington or Ankara. Turkey, which has pledged to abide by the truce, has repeatedly denied allegations that it has aided Al Qaeda-style militants fighting U.S.-backed Kurdish forces in northern Syria. Follow @mdcneville for news from Iraq and Syria. ALSO Reformers and moderates romp in Tehran as Iran election gauges popularity of nuclear deal Twice-escaped El Chapo Guzman says hell do time in U.S.-- as long as its in medium security Why Silicon Valley is betting big on India Captured Mexican drug kingpin Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman has stated that he is willing to be extradited to the United States. Indeed, such a thing is good news, especially since the United States has been trying to get the drug lord onto U.S. soil in order to properly try him for a number of crimes, including drug trafficking and murder. Before everyone gets all celebratory, however, "El Chapo" has some demands. He doesn't mind being sent to and incarcerated in the United States at all, provided, of course, that he be kept in a medium-security prison. That's right. The elusive "El Chapo" wants to be incarcerated in a U.S. prison that only has medium-level security. Considering the fact that the notorious drug kingpin has willingly stated his intentions to go the United States, there is only one problem with his request. During his past stints in Mexican prisons, he managed to garner a notorious reputation for being a prisoner with a nasty tendency to escape. He has, after all, managed to initiate not one, but two successful escapes from maximum security prisons in the past. From the time he escaped in 2001 after bribing prison guards, to his daring escape through a tunnel under his cell in 2015, "El Chapo" Guzman has proven to be the type of criminal who just could not resist the temptation of freedom. Thus, his demand for a medium-security prison in the United States is quite suspicious. Hi lawyer, Jose Refugio Rodriguez, begs to differ. According to the attorney, Guzman's request is simply a means for him to be transferred to a state where he could be treated in a more humane manner. Recently, Guzman has told his lawyers that prison guards have been so intent on watching his every move that he could not even get any sleep. Of course, with Guzman's reputation, such a measure might be necessary. For his attorney, however, the measures the prison is taking are simply a bit too much. "Tell me what person could tolerate not sleeping," Rodriguez said. From the attorney's point of view, the treatment his client is receiving from the Mexican Altiplano Federal Prison is tantamount to "physical and mental torture." Guzman's lawyer is not alone in the allegations, with his wife, former beauty queen Emma Coronel Aispuro also stating that she is currently fearing for her husband's life as long as he in Altiplano Prison. "I am afraid for his life. They want to make him pay for his escape. They say that they are not punishing him. Of course, they are. They don't let him sleep. He has no privacy, not even to go to the restroom," she said. Mexico's Interior Minister Miguel Angel Osorio Chong has denied such claims, however, simply stating that finally, Guzman is simply being treated for what he is: a criminal behind bars. 2015 Latin One. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. For many of his supporters, Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump represents somebody who is not afraid to speak his mind, regardless of how offensive or potentially damaging a statement would be. So far, throughout his campaign, Trump has shown his supporters that he is capable of being just that. He did, after all, but heads with a number of prominent personalities already, including the head of the Catholic Church, Pope Francis, regarding the pontiff's stance on immigration, an issue that Trump has been extremely passionate about. For former Mexican President Vicente Fox, however, Trump has done too much. In fact, according to the Mexican politician, Trump has, through his very brief tenure in politics, managed to offend more people than most politicians would in their entire career. "He has offended Mexico, Mexicans and immigrants. He has offended the Pope. He has offended the Chinese. He's offended everybody," Fox said. Perhaps most disturbing, however, is Fox's observation that Trump's current actions, as he pursues the highest office in the United States, are very reminiscent of the actions of one of history's most infamous men -- Adolf Hitler himself. "Today, he's going to take that nation, the U.S., back to the old days of conflict, war and everything. I mean, he reminds me of Hitler. That's the way he started speaking," the former Mexican president said. In a lot of ways, Fox might very well be right. After all, Hitler's emergence as one of the most powerful political leaders after Germany's defeat in World War I was largely helped by the strong rhetoric that Hitler adopted. Like Trump, the Nazi leader also promised to bring the country back to glory, and like Trump, Hitler also directed his aggression at a very specific demographic. What is particularly tragic is the fact that people from all walks of life in the United States are supporting Trump's views. After all, it is much easier to be aggravated about a problem when there is a group of people that could be used as an ideal scapegoat. In Trump's case, this refers to immigrants to the United States, Mexicans, Muslims and everyone in between. As much as Trump's words might be swaying the masses, however, he is yet to sway veterans in the political field. Mexico's top diplomat, Foreign Affairs Secretary Claudia Ruiz Massieu, for one, has stated that she views the Republican presidential hopeful as both "ignorant and racist." She has also dubbed Trump's plan to build a wall on the border of the United States and Mexico as "absurd." "When an apple is red, it is red. When you say ignorant things, you're ignorant. It is impossible to think of a 2,000-mile border being walled off and trade between our two countries stopped. It is impractical, inefficient, wrong and, frankly, it is not an intelligent thing to do," she said. 2015 Latin One. All rights reserved. Do not reproduce without permission. Ahead of Super Tuesday, conservative and faith-based leaders in support of immigration reform have called on presidential candidates show compassion on immigration. Letter to the Candidates Twenty-four faith leaders from Texas and Georgia, two of the states hosting primaries on March 1, wrote a letter to all candidates, calling on them to create a "new, solutions-based message" on immigration that includes border security, the well-being of immigrant communities and the economy. "Immigrants continue to contribute to our economy. Texas is home to almost 4.4 million immigrants. More than 40 percent of Texans are Latino or Asian. As of 2010, more than 20 percent of all business owners in Texas were foreign-born, and from 2006 to 2010, immigrant businesses in Texas generated a total net business income of $10 billion," the letter noted. According to National Immigration Forum Executive Director Ali Noorani, some presidential candidates appear to be determined to "overlook" local views on immigration. In the letter, which was promoted through Noorani's organization, the leaders said they believe a sensible solution is possible between the "extremes" of mass deportation and "blanket amnesty." "Across the country, local leaders are underscoring the important role immigrants play in their communities and calling for a national conversation that confronts the realities of our current immigration system and the implications of candidates' policy recommendations," said Noorani. "We need our candidates to recognize that America is better when we embrace the contributions of immigrants and give them the opportunities, skills and status they need to succeed." The need to address immigration is not an exclusive message from faith leaders but also comes from law enforcement. In a statement from the National Immigration Forum, Miguel Lugo, a police officer for the Atlanta Police Department, said community relations improve once police are involved, since crime affects all communities regardless of immigration status. "We have to build trust with immigrants and work hand-in-hand. Once that trust is built, we cannot break that trust and start from scratch," said Lugo in a statement. "We have a commitment to our communities and to our citizens that we are here to serve them. Immigrants have these same rights and we are here to protect them." Super Tuesday Texas and Georgia are among the 13 states hosting either a primary or caucus on Super Tuesday, when 661 Republican delegates and 1,034 Democratic delegates will be up for grabs. In the Republican Party, Donald Trump leads the delegate count with 81, while Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz are tied at 17 each. In the Democratic Party, with the inclusion of "superdelegates," Hillary Clinton leads with 504 delegates to Bernie Sanders' 71. Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado Georgia, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Vermont and Virginia will host primaries for both major political parties, while Alaska will have a Republican caucus and American Samoa will host a Democratic caucus. Wyoming will host a Republican primary. __ For the latest updates, follow Latin Post's Michael Oleaga on Twitter: @EditorMikeO or contact via email: m.oleaga@latinpost.com. The South Carolina Democratic primary ended before it started. Hillary Clinton cruised to a 73 percent to 26 percent win over Bernie Sanders Saturday night, thanks in large part to a record-breaking amount of African-American voters. The former Secretary of State earns 39 delegates and takes much-needed momentum into Super Tuesday. "Today you sent a message in America (that) when we stand together there is not barrier too big to break," Clinton said at a Columbia, S.C. rally. "Tomorrow this campaign goes national. We are going to compete for every vote in every state. We are not taking anything or anyone for granted." Support for Clinton wavered following a loss in the New Hampshire primary and near-wins in Iowa and Nevada caucuses, but a strong showing in South Carolina solidified her status as the Party's front-runner. Winning the African-American Vote A New York Times exit poll found black voters accounted for 61 percent of primary voters. Fewer than two percent of Latinos participated. Of those black voters, over 85 percent chose Clinton, breaking a record set in 2008 with then-Senator Barack Obama; 78 percent of African-American voters backed Obama eight years ago, though he had to compete with two candidates instead of one. "We also have to face the reality of systemic racism that more than half a century after Rosa Parks sat, and Dr. King and John Lewis bled, still plays a significant role in determining who gets ahead in America and who gets left behind," Clinton said. When we stand together, there is no barrier too big to break. What Hillary said after winning in South Carolina: https://t.co/XZIFNrkZhK Hillary Clinton (@HillaryClinton) February 28, 2016 Part of the reason Clinton did so well is because of her vow to protect President Obama's legacy. She often talks about gun violence and violence against young minorities; on Saturday, Clinton referenced by name five African-American women whose children lost their lives to one of the two. "This campaign and our victory is for the reverend, a presiding elder of the AME church, who looked at all the violence and division in our country and asked me, 'How? How are we ever going to strengthen the bonds of family and community again?" Clinton said. Clinton Targets Trump Clinton took thinly-veiled shots at Donald Trump, focusing primarily on the Republican presidential leader's oft-questioned immigration policy. "Despite what you hear, we don't need to make America great again. America has never stopped begin great," Clinton said. "But we do need to make America whole again." She added, "Instead of building walls we need to be tearing down barriers. We need to show by everything we do that we really are in this together." Both Clinton and Trump have won three of each respective Party's first four contests, but it's Trump's immigration and foreign policy that has drawn skepticism. Earlier in the week, former Mexico President Vicente Fox adamantly said "I'm not going to pay for that f---ing wall." On Saturday, another conservative ex-president, Felipe Calderon, compared Trump to Hitler and called his rhetoric "frankly racist." Clinton's slow-building lead relies on Latino African-American voters, both which played vital roles in her Nevada and South Carolina victories. A big chunk of Super Tuesday states carry large minority populations, including Texas and Virginia, and may be the reason the Democratic Party's nomination goes to Clinton by Wednesday morning. Sanders Prepares for Super Tuesday The Vermont senator didn't stay in South Carolina long enough for primary votes to be calculated, instead getting a jump start in Super Tuesday states. "I am going to need your help the day after the general election because I can't do it alone," Sanders told a Rochester, Minn. crowd. He continued, "In Minnesota, we will win if the voter turnout is higher, no doubt about that. We will not win if the voter turnout is low." "It is the public not the candidate who decides how much disclosure is enough." https://t.co/g2wWkCDvfx #ReleaseTheTranscripts Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) February 27, 2016 Sanders focused his attacks on Republican but too a few not-so-subtle shots at Clinton, specifically her Super PAC ties and refusal to release transcripts of paid speeches she delivered on Wall Street. "Tonight we lost. I congratulate Secretary Clinton on her strong victory," Sanders said. "Tuesday, over 800 delegates are at stake and we intend to win many, many of them." Republican front-runner Donald Trump is expected to add to his column of GOP primary victories when voters take to the polls in Kansas City on March 5. Already the winner of three straight primaries heading into Super Tuesday on March 1, where he is also heavily favored in several states, a new Fort Hays University poll shows Trump leading Texas senator Ted Cruz 26 to 14 percent in Kansas City. Florida Senator Marco Rubio follows closely behind Cruz, the only candidate to knock off Trump in any primary heading into Super Tuesday, in third place at 13 percent. Trump Leads Despite Rubio Being Backed by State's top GOP Leaders Trump has sprinted out to his comfortable lead in the state despite Rubio having received the endorsement of most of the state's top GOP elected officials, including Gov. Sam Brownback, Sen. Pat Roberts and U.S. Rep. Mike Pompeo. Meanwhile, U.S. Rep. Tim Huelskamp has endorsed Cruz and no major political figure in the state has named Trump as their primary choice. Recently, New Jersey Governor and onetime Republican presidential candidate Chris Christie went public with his endorsement of Trump, which some see as perhaps being significant enough to endear Trump to other factions of the party establishment. A new Rasmussen Reports survey also now finds 80 percent of likely Republican voters are now convinced Trump will be the party's official nominee come general election season. Clinton Also Comfortably Ahead in State On the Democratic side, party front-runner Hillary Clinton leads Vermont Senator Bernie Sanders 33 to 23 percent among the state's likely voters, with 44 percent of voters indicating they remain undecided. Polls also find the former Secretary of State leading in several other upcoming voting states, though Sanders holds a commanding lead in his home state and is also marginally ahead in Massachusetts. Clinton also recently received the endorsement of former Kansas governor and Obama Cabinet member Kathleen Sebelius. The Fort Hays State University poll was comprised of 440 voters and was conducted by the Docking Institute. A new poll reveals that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump has maintained a strong lead as the GOP frontrunner, while a majority of his supporters are in favor of deporting undocumented immigrants and banning Muslims from entering the U.S. In addition to winning three consecutive primary victories in New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada, the billionaire business has a double-digit lead in the GOP race, according to the latest online NBC News|SurveyMonkey poll. The survey, which was conducted from Feb. 24 to Feb. 25, shows that he won over 39 percent of GOP voters nationwide, giving him an 18-point advantage over Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, who came in second place with 21 percent. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz landed in third place with 19 percent, while retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson and Ohio Gov. John Kasich each had 8 percent. The poll also shows that 67 percent of Trump supporters have an unfavorable view of American Muslims. In comparison, only 35 percent of those surveyed admitted to having an unfavorable opinion of the religious group. A whopping 87 percent of voters backing trump also support his call to temporarily ban all Muslims from entering the United States, compared to only 47 percent of all voters who agree with this proposal. Meanwhile, 55 percent standing behind the brash billionaire believe all undocumented workers in the U.S should be deported, versus 29 percent all voters. When asked about their view on abortion, only 45 percent of Trump supporters described themselves as "pro-choice" on abortion in comparison to 60 percent of all voters. Lastly, half of those surveyed are in favor of raising the minimum wage to either $10 or $15 an hour, versus 72 percent of all voters. Polling data recently released by RealClearPolitics shows the New York real estate mogul on top of the Republican field by approximately 13 percent of support just days befor Super Tuesday. On Sunday, presidential aspirant Ted Cruz had an interview with Fox News host Chris Wallace. However, their conversation didn't turn out well as both attacked each other and denied each allegation. Cruz vs. Wallace While Cruz was still speaking, Wallace interrupted to ask the U.S. senator from Texas about his presidential campaign, which is allegedly involved in a series of "dirty tricks." To backup his question, the American television anchor even provided a list of incidences, RawStory reported. Cruz's campaign was accused of tweeting about Ben Carson suspending his campaign and putting out voting violations flyers. In South Carolina, his SuperPac supporters attacked Donald Trump for the confederate flag, and lastly, his communication director posted a video accusing Marco Rubio of his irreverence to the bible. Wallace stressed that all were false and asked if Cruz takes personal responsibility for those incidents. Cruz was obviously not happy with all the allegations and explained that all of the accusations were incorrect. "I appreciate your reading the Donald Trump attack file on that," he quipped. However, his remarks seemed to hurt the host. Wallace insisted on the allegations and recounted that Cruz even asked for an apology to Carson and fired his communication director. Cruz kept on asking Wallace to let him finish his statement, but Wallace didn't hear him. "Don't say this in an oppo file on our part, sir. Please don't accuse me of something I didn't do," Wallace said. Cruz just lets the host talk and grumbled to let him know when he can speak. The politician argued that his campaign had the "highest level of integrity" since they started their pursuit for the presidential race. Wallace's Interview with Trump In the said interview, Wallace stressed that he also asked Trump difficult questions when it was the GOP front-runner's turn. He even explained that he also asked the businessman-turned-politician several questions and challenged Cruz that if he wanted him to ask about it, he can do so during the Fox debate on Thursday. Per Mediate ITE, Wallace confronted Trump about the Polish illegal immigrants, con man charges and tax returns. He even went into details asking Trump for his gross income and the amount he gave to charity, including his effective tax rate. Wallace Calling Out for Clinton Meanwhile, Wallace had admitted earlier that they haven't had the chance to interview Hillary Clinton. The host explained that they already reached out to her press secretary and communications director but got no reply. Clinton and President Barack Obama were subject to relentless attacks by Fox News, according to Politicususa. Latino Post previously reported that the Democratic front-runner is now letting them feel the fruits of their biased reports by ignoring their invitation. Donald Trump is accusing a judge overseeing a case regarding the Trump University of being biased because of his Hispanic heritage. The GOP frontrunner claimed that U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel is biased because of his anti-immigrant rhetoric and his plan to build a wall between the United States and Mexico if he wins the presidency. Curiel, a U.S. judge since 2012, is currently overseeing a fraud lawsuit filed by former Trump University students, who swore that the school was a sham, according to Bloomberg. Trump said that Curiel is "a very hostile judge," the news outlet reported. During a campaign rally on Saturday, the Republican presidential candidate said that he is considering of filing a motion to recuse the judge, Yahoo! News wrote. While appearing on "Meet the Press" on Sunday, Trump was asked why he needs Curiel to be recused and how does his ethnicity factor into the issue. The business magnate replied, "Because I think he's been very, very unfair with us," as quoted by Yahoo! News. Trump continued, "I think the judge has been extremely unfair. This is a case that many, many, many people said should have been thrown out on summary judgment. We have 98 percent approval. We have an A from the Better Business Bureau." Accusations Against Trump In October 2014, Trump's lawyer sought to recuse Curiel after the judge certified one of the cases as a class action lawsuit filed by past Trump University students, the news outlet further reported. This occurred long before Trump proposed his plan to build a wall separating the United States and Mexico. Curiel obligated Trump to declare how much money he got from the university, Yahoo! News added. New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman said in a separate action that Trump's earnings totaled at $5 million. The former students claimed that they were duped by the university when they paid real-estate seminars to receive "one-on-one mentorship, practical and fail-safe real estate techniques, a 'power team' consisting of real estate agents, lenders, personal finance managers, property managers and contractors," Bloomberg reported. Trump defended his namesake university, saying that he "handpicked top people" who "did a good job and ran a good school," the news outlet noted. He also said that 98 percent of the students commended and approved the courses. Trump also criticized Schneiderman, who in 2013 sued the candidate for fooling around 600 students to shell out thousands of dollars, according to NY Daily News. Schneiderman instantly fired back. "I will not engage in a debate about ongoing litigation. But there is no place in this process for racial demagoguery directed at respected members of the judiciary," he said, as quoted by NY Daily News. A huge fossil site from the Jurassic era was discovered in Argentina. Paleontologists said that the site was found four years after it was first discovered in Patagonia, southern Argentina, AFP reported (via Yahoo! News) from the journal Ameghiniana. The site measures 23,000 square miles (60,000 square kilometers) and is situated along the Deseado Massif mountain range. Garcia Massini, who is heading the research team studying the fossil site, said that the fossils are between 140 and 160 million years old, the news outlet added. Erosion recently exposed the fossils, causing them to lie on the surface. According to researchers, the fossils are well preserved and that each rock removed from the location could likely lead to more discoveries, AFP further reported. The fossils are preserved almost instantly, some in less than a day. "No other place in the world contains the same amount and diversity of Jurassic fossils," said geologist Juan Garcia Massini from the Regional Center for Scientific Research and Technology Transfer, or, CRILAR, as quoted by AFP. "You can see the landscape as it appeared in the Jurassic -- how thermal waters, lakes and streams as well as plants and other parts of the ecosystem were distributed." According to Ignacio Escapa of the Egidio Feruglio Paleontology Museum, researchers discovered "a wide range of micro and macro-organisms," AFP noted. Garcia Massini said the site offers a look at how fungi, cyanobacteria and worms moved when they were still active. Did Huge Dinosaurs Swim? Researchers now believe that giant sauropod dinosaurs knew how to swim when they were still alive. Lida Xing, a paleontologist at China University of Geosciences, and colleagues published an article about the issue in Scientific Reports. According to Forbes, the largest sauropods' weight of 70 tons likely made it hard for them to walk on land. In the early 20th century, this led some researchers to believe that sauropods spent the majority of their time swimming instead of walking. Evidence obtained from hand-only trackaways showed that only the sauropods' front or hind feet were imprinted into the sediment, The Conversation reported. Researchers argued that the sauropods were swimming with their body staying buoyant in deep water while only one set of their limbs were reaching the bottom. "Nobody would say these huge dinosaurs could stagger along on their hind legs alone -- they would fall over," said Xing, as quoted by Forbes. The new trackways were seen in Gansu Province in northern China, The Conversation noted. The tracks originated from the Lower Cretaceous era over 120 million years ago. Donald Trump's proposal to build a wall along the United States-Mexico border received a straight forward response from one of the Central American country's former leaders and he did not like it. Former president Vicente Fox Quesada bluntly stated that he would never pay for the border wall the Republican presidential frontrunner wants, per a report from Fusion. During an interview with Univision anchor Jorge Ramos, Fox strongly declared that he is "not going to pay for that f---ing wall," referring to Trump's proposed border wall. In response to these strong words, Trump took to Twitter to demand an apology from the former president. FMR PRES of Mexico, Vicente Fox horribly used the F word when discussing the wall. He must apologize! If I did that there would be a uproar! Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) February 25, 2016 In the interview, the former Mexican president also expressed his surprise at how the investor mogul-turned-politician performed during the Nevada caucus, saying that he wants to know who comprised that 44 percent, whom he believes are making a big mistake by following "a false prophet." Furthermore, he called for better judgment among Latinos who would join the November 2016 Elections in the United States, asking them not to hand over the nation to "the hands of a crazy guy." "Please, you Hispanics, Latinos in the U.S., open your eyes. It's not to defend our race. Not to defend our creed. It's to defend this very same nation that is hosting you. This nation is going to fail if it goes into the hands of a crazy guy," he said. When talking with CNN, Fox condemned how Trump handled minorities, adding that the Republican candidate reminded him of the notorious dictator Adolf Hitler. "Today, he's going to take that nation (U.S.) back to the old days of conflict, war and everything ... He has offended Mexico, Mexicans, (and) immigrants. He has offended the Pope. He has offended the Chinese. He's offended everybody," he said. Since he began this political race, Trump had been subject to strong criticism, particularly from Hispanics. In fact, another Mexican leader, Felipe Calderon, had previously declared that no Mexican would pay for Trump's proposed border wall and called him a "not very well-informed man." "Mexican people, we are not going to pay any single cent for such a stupid wall! And it's going to be completely useless," Calderon told CNBC early in February. He further noted that such policy would not benefit the United States considering that his proposal not only closes off the nation from illegal immigration but also from other inter-nation relations, including product trade. Former Brazil President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has expressed his intention to seek another term as head of the state. That is, if the attacks on the administration party by the opposition continues. Lula will have become 72 years old by the time of the next election, writes The Guardian. However, speaking to reporters at the 36th year celebration of the Workers' Party in Rio de Janeiro, he said that he still has the passion of a 30-year-old to lead. This statement comes after incumbent president Dilma Rousseff, also a member of the Workers' Party, was embroiled in the recent Petrobras corruption scandal where opposition leaders called for her dismissal. According to TeleSur, Lula was also linked to the issue involving the state-owned oil company, but the ex-president shunned the accusations as merely a political ploy because the Social-Democrat could not come up with concrete plans and programs. In December 2015, state prosecutors filed a lawsuit against high-ranking state individuals for their alleged involvement in bribery and kickback schemes related to Petrobras projects. It is believed that the corrupt practices have been going on since 2013. One of those who were arrested was Delcidio do Amaral, who was the most senior figure in Congress at the time and a close ally of Lula, per Business Insider. While Rousseff was not exempted from investigations, she was reportedly the chairperson of the oil company during the period in question. Both Lula and Rousseff were eventually exonerated. However, according to Reuters, the former is once again in the spotlight for the ownership of certain luxurious properties, which are believed to the be related to the Petrobras issue. At the recent Rio event, Lula reiterated his support for Rousseff, who is currently serving her second term after defeating Aecio Neves in October 2014. "Even though we disagree on some things, Dilma has to be certain that we are on her side. She needs us in order to survive attacks that she has suffered in the National Congress by our adversaries," he noted in a separate article from TeleSur. Lula ended his eight-year term as president in 2010 and exited his two-term limit with high approval ratings. In a 2013 interview with The Guardian, then Workers' Party Congressman Jorge Bittar said that bringing Lula back as a candidate for the presidency will be a solid solution if Rousseff's political fortune worsens. Rousseff has also been quoted saying that she thinks Lula will not be back, "because he never left," without providing more information about her predecessor's plans. The next Brazil presidential elections is set for October 2018. If there's one thing people love, it's smashing a pinata resembling Donald Trump. The GOP frontrunner has been steadily making anti-immigrant statements ever since he announced his presidential campaign, causing an outcry among immigrants and people from the Latin American region. Dalton Javier Avalos Ramirez, a resident of the border city of Reynosa near Texas, was no different. He was angry at the business magnate's statements, but he chose to apply a creative spin to the issue and made pinatas into Trump's image. According to LA Times, Avalos Ramirez's pinatas turned out to be a huge hit that Mexican customers both from in and outside the border poured in. Many customers filled the Trump pinatas with candy and treats and happily beat his likeness at birthday parties and special events. Others, meanwhile, carried the pinata to protests and burned it. Avalos Ramirez didn't expect that his pinatas would encourage imitations, which gave Mexicans a chance to express their distaste against anti-immigrant statements currently pervading the U.S. presidential campaign, LA Times wrote. Selling Like Hotcakes Trump pinatas are best sellers in U.S. cities with the highest percentage of Hispanic residents, Idaho Statesman wrote. Retailers in Santa Fe and Albuquerque said that Trump pinatas attract all sorts of customers and not just Latinos. Jose Carlos Andre, the 26-year-old manager of Mexican butcher shop El Paisano in Santa Fe, said whites also buy Trump pinatas. The continuing demand for Trump pinatas is making sellers busy in the United States and in Latin America, the news outlet noted. Tai Ayers, 41, was among those who recently purchased a Trump pinata for her and her 4-year-old son's birthday party. "I completely noticed the irony," Ayers said, as quoted by Idaho Statesman. "It actually made me feel good buying this because this is exactly who I want to give my money to -- a locally owned shop that services immigrants." In September 2015, Marylou Hernandez, who owns the Cascaron Store on Austin Highway, said they make two types of Trump pinatas: an angry-faced Trump and a superman Trump, the Guardian reported. They also accept customization orders from customers. "We get lots and lots of calls [about Trump pinatas]," Hernandez said, as quoted by the Guardian. "It's been very popular and very funny, the requests from the customers, they're just unique." Last July, Ignacio Padilla, the Santa Fe County Republican Party's former treasurer, drove around town with a Trump pinata peeking out from his car's passenger seat, the news outlet wrote. The pinata bore a sign calling Trump a racist. Afterwards, Padilla invited residents to pummel the pinata in the town's plaza. The move, however, cost Padilla his position. In this age of insta-everything, one of the most important features of a best-selling smartphone is the camera. HTC knows this and will be delivering a punch with a "very, very compelling" snapper in its next flagship phone. According to a report from CNET, the HTC executives are confident with the company's newest device, even after seeing the spotlight on rivals Samsung and LG. The upcoming handset hasn't been publicly named by the team yet, but the industry is calling it One M10 due to HTC's regular scheme in naming their smartphones. In the interview with Chief Financial Officer Chialin Chang and CEO Cher Wang, it was revealed that one of the One M10's most significant upgrades is its camera. "We can confidently say that HTC will have a very, very compelling camera experience," Chang said during the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. "We're making this comment after we've seen what's going on in the market." The previous device in the line, the One M9, featured a disappointing camera, so a better picture-taking experience will go a long way in the next iteration of HTC's smartphones. "Hopefully this year it will be different," Chang acknowledged. Although the HTC executives are highlighting the camera in the next flagship mobile phone, the buzz during the Mobile World Congress was loudest regarding the various VR technology in the market. As one of the manufacturers of the upcoming VR technology, HTC is attracting a lot of attention and questions about bringing the VR magic to the mobile platform. According to a report from Tech Times, Drew Bamford, corporate VP of HTC's Creative Labs, admitted that there are "really cool stuff" in the works within HTC. However, he was non-committal about the development of VR technology for the mobile market. "I can't comment on our future roadmap but you can imagine HTC is as design led and innovation led business and of course it would make sense for us to work on more kinds of VR products, and products that unite our phone business and our VR business in ways that makes sense," Bamford responded to a question about the subject. The HTC team has remained relatively quiet about the new mobile phone dropping, but some leaks have offered details of the device. Some features expected in the One M10 include a 5.2-inch QHD screen, the new Snapdragon 820 processer, Adreno 530 graphics, 4GB of RAM, 32GB of internal storage and a microSD slot for additional space, per N4BB. The BOLD PAC, the political and fundraising arm of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus, endorsed former secretary of state Hillary Clinton for president on Monday. An Expected Endorsement? From Washington, D.C., BOLD PAC Chair Tony Cardenas, representative for California's 29th Congressional District, joined CHC Chair Linda Sanchez, representative for California's 38th Congressional District to endorse Clinton. The representatives said they believe she is the presidential candidate that will support issues that affect the Latino community. In a statement released on early Monday afternoon regarding the endorsement, Cardenas said Clinton has been a champion for the Latino community, tackling issues affecting Latinos that are also American issues, such as affordable college, job creation and more opportunities. "Although we respect Senator Bernie Sanders, he has failed to stand with our community time and time again on issues that mattered most to us, voting against Hillary and Ted Kennedy's 2007 comprehensive immigration bill six times -- effectively killing our ability to make immigration reform a reality" said Cardenas. Rep. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., said, "Hillary Clinton has been a consistent advocate for comprehensive immigration reform and someone the Latino community has always been able to count on. She's a progressive who gets things done, while staying true to who she is. Latinos can count on Hillary Clinton -- that's why I'm with her." Clinton, however, had already received the individual support from a number of CHC members, including Cardenas and Sanchez. Last November, Cardenas announced his endorsement following discussions with the former New York senator. "I've met with Secretary Clinton and discussed the priorities we both have, and that is how I know she is the most experienced candidate for president, with the best plan to revitalize our economy and keep our nation on top," Cardenas said, adding that Clinton shares his "primary focus" to help the 11 million undocumented immigrants who want to provide for their families and contribute to the country. One month later, in December, Sanchez announced her endorsement in an op-ed for the Spanish language newspaper La Opinion. Based on an English translation sent to Latin Post, Sanchez said the next U.S. president has to keep fighting for families seeking a better life, especially during economic or labor setbacks. She wrote, "I believe with all my heart that president should and will be Hillary Clinton." "Hillary has been a champion for working families her entire career. She has fought tirelessly for comprehensive immigration reform that would keep so many of those families together, and give their children the best possible shot at reaching their full potential," Sanchez added, also saying that Clinton has been "a passionate ally of the Latino community" on issues ranging from the economy to healthcare and education. Sanchez's endorsement came just days after fellow CHC member Luis Gutierrez, D-Ill., endorsed Clinton at an immigration conference in Brooklyn on Dec. 14, along with an op-ed for Univision. Sanders' Support Within CHC The CHC BOLD PAC's endorsement does not necessarily signify that all CHC members support Clinton. On Oct. 9, Rep. Raul Grijalva, D-Ariz., congressman for Arizona's 3rd Congressional District, formally endorsed Sanders at a rally at Reid Park DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center in Tucson. Grijalva's support was Sanders' first congressional endorsement. "Bernie is my friend and beyond friendship I agree with his values. I agree with the solutions that he is bringing to the American people,'' said Grijalva, who also serves as co-chairman of the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC), which was created by Sanders in 1991. The CPC also includes several other CHC members, such as Gutierrez and Democratic California Reps. Grace Napolitano, Lucille Roybal-Allard and Xavier Becerra and New York Reps. Jose Serrano and Nydia Velazquez. The BOLD PAC endorsement comes a day before Super Tuesday, when 12 states will host either Democratic primaries or caucuses. Among the Super Tuesday states is Texas, home to a large Latino population and 222 delegates up for grabs, not counting superdelegates. According to the Texas Democratic Party, 29 super delegates are allocated for the Lone Star state, which brings its total to 251, the most of any Super Tuesday state. __ For the latest updates, follow Latin Post's Michael Oleaga on Twitter: @EditorMikeO or contact via email: m.oleaga@latinpost.com. Donald Trump is now registering a campaign-high 49 percent of support from all Republican voters, giving him triple the support of closest challenger Marco Rubio. With just hours remaining before the start Super Tuesday on March 1, a new CNN/ORC International poll released on Monday finds Trump 33 points ahead of the Florida senator at 16 percent. Rubio leads Texas Sen. Ted Cruz for second by just 1 point, while retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson has 10 percent and Ohio Gov. John Kasich checks in at 6 percent. Trump's Rise Over Several Months Trump's impressive totals represent an 8 percent increase over the last time the poll was taken in January and more than double the 24 percent support he was registering just five months ago. Eight in 10 Trump supporters say they are enthusiastic about voting, while only 39 percent of non-Trump supporters describe themselves as more enthusiastic about casting a ballot this year than in years past. The poll also finds 78 percent of Trump supporters insist there is little chance they will turn to another candidate. By comparison, only 57 percent of voters backing other GOP candidates say they are totally committed to their preferred candidate. In addition, the Real Clear Politics national polling average has Trump 13 points ahead of Cruz and 16.5 points ahead of Rubio. Trump Gets Key Endorsement Trump recently further secured the GOP nomination by landing an endorsement from Alabama Sen. Jeff Sessions. He joins a growing list of well-known party heavyweights who have publicly thrown their support behind the bombastic real estate mogul. Govs. Chris Christie of New Jersey and Paul LePage of Maine both recently announced their support for Trump, as has former Arizona Gov. Jan Brewer. Sessions has long called for restrictions on both legal and unauthorized immigration, and, as the chair of the Immigration Subcommittee, has recently focused on limiting work visa programs for legal immigrants. Meanwhile, Trump has proposed immigrations policies that include deportations of all unauthorized immigrants and the construction of a massive wall along the Mexican border. If elected president, Trump has also vowed to deport up to 11 million immigrants in 18 months. Sessions is rumored to have served as an adviser to Trump on the issue of immigration over the course of his campaign. "Politicians have promised for 30 years to fix illegal immigration," Sessions recently told a gathering of Trump supporters. "Have they done it? Donald Trump will do it. I've told Donald Trump this isn't a campaign, this is a movement." In the days leading up to Alabama's Super Tuesday primary, both Trump and Cruz had vigorously fought to secure the support of the strident Sessions. The proposal to force Apple to accelerate recruitment of executives and board members from more diverse backgrounds failed at the company's shareholders meeting over the weekend. After CEO Tim Cook and Apple pushed against the measure, the proposal was voted down by investors by a big margin. At Apple's annual shareholders meeting in Cupertino, California this past weekend, Apple investor Tony Maldonado's proposal to institute an "accelerated recruitment policy" for minorities in the company's top leadership ranks was rejected by a vote of nearly 95 percent to 5 percent, according to an early tally reported by IBTimes. Apple Defends on Diversity The motion wasn't expected to pass, but the sound rejection of Maldonado's proposal signaled the power of Apple's entrenched leadership at the top ranks and intensified focus on the issue of diversity in technology during the meeting. Cook had spoken out previously against the measure, calling it an attempt to "micromanage" Apple's leadership. He added that the proposal was restrictive, burdensome and unnecessary "because Apple has demonstrated to shareholders its commitment to inclusion and diversity, which are the core values for our company." The proposal, though roundly put down, did pressure Apple leadership to speak on diversity again. Apple pointed to over $900 million the company spent on minority and women-owned businesses last year, as well as investments in women and minority talent through strategic partnerships with the National Center for Women and IT and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, among others. The company hired over 4,000 black and Latino employees last year, and it has accelerated the hiring of women, Latinos, and black employees in general. After the vote, Cook defended the company's record on diversity, noting that female employees had nearly reached pay parity at 99.6 cents to every dollar male employees earn, regardless of race. According to The Guardian, Cook told shareholders, "There's much more work to do on diversity across the company. I can commit to you we are working very hard on it." Lack of Leadership Diversity That may be true, but it doesn't show in Apple's senior executive ranks, which currently include no minorities or women with the exception of senior VP of retail Angela Ahrendts. There are only two women, one black, in Apple's VP ranks, among an otherwise homogeneous group of white men. Maldonado noticed the company's leadership was, in his words, a "little bit too vanilla," and sought to accelerate change at the top level through the proposal. As he wrote in an exclusive op-ed for Latin Post before the meeting, Maldonado believed Apple wasn't "doing nearly enough to foster and maintain racial and ethnic diversity among senior management and the company's board." He also emphasized that his point comes from a shareholder interested in increasing diversity at the leadership level not only to improve company culture, but also to ensure Apple's future as an outstanding and profitable innovator in the industry. "Diversity at Apple isn't solely a social issue; it's a bottom-line financial issue. There's considerable evidence that workforce diversity increases profits and eliminates 'groupthink' from innovative organizational decision-making. With its desire to have greater impact in emerging markets, such as Latin America, China, India and Africa, Apple must more seriously consider the issue of inclusive diversity among senior management and the board of directors," he wrote. Maldonado wasn't alone in his disappointment in fellow shareholders for rejecting the proposal. Rev. Jesse Jackson, who arguably started the push for diversity in Silicon Valley two years ago at an HP shareholders' meeting, also made a last-minute appeal to shareholders to support Maldonado's proposal. "Ironically, Apple is already moving in this direction," said Jackson to Apple's investors, according to The Guardian. "The world is diverse... we should not position ourselves to react to inclusion, which leads to growth." That's exactly what 95 percent of Apple's shareholders did over the weekend, however. Overshadowed by FBI Fight Of course, the timing of Maldonado's proposal landed diversity in the shadow of a larger issue at the meeting. Just a few days after his op-ed for Latin Post, and only a few weeks before the annual meeting, Apple became locked in a power struggle with the U.S. government over encryption protections. When the subject came up at the shareholders meeting, several attendees, including Jackson and a representative of the Electronic Frontier Foundation, praised Apple for its principled stand against surveillance and government interference. Silicon Valley has a diversity problem. It also has a lot of money. Many tech firms believe spending a lot of capital on projects to increase diversity in the hiring talent pool will solve the greater diversity issue Silicon Valley faces. Intel pledged $300 million, for example, while Facebook and others have joined in the spending spree for scholarships, coding bootcamps, iPads in the classrooms and other great initiatives to help those with less get the skills they need to compete. Those firms, of course, make it known just how much they are spending and what they're funding every time they release another slow-but-steady progress report on the diversity in their workforces. But Silicon Valley is also spending money in a quieter way, according to a new report from Politico, and that unpublicized money is heading to Washington D.C. Some of the biggest minority advocacy groups affiliated with black and Latino lawmakers on Capitol Hill have been the beneficiaries of Silicon Valley funding recently, after the issue of diversity rose in the public eye and showed no sign of abating anytime soon. Politico reports the funds usually take the shape of "honorary expenses" -- events like dinners or rounds of cocktails where Congress members, regulators and other Washington influencers on the topic of diversity are honored guests. The spending still isn't close to the level Silicon Valley normally throws at problems, like the overstated lack of a diverse "pipeline" of STEM talent to hire or the fact that people still die of old age. In contrast to the multimillion-dollar moonshots or multibillion-dollar acquisitions, Silicon Valley's spending in Washington is chump change. But it's also more than ever before. For example, Google spent nearly $500,000 on honorary expenses in 2015, much of it going to groups like the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. According to federal ethics reports, Apple spent $1.2 million on an awards gala for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, while Uber funded the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute to the modest tune of $10,000. But those were the first times Apple or Uber reported any such spending. Whether or not the funding compares to other lavish tech industry indulgences, Silicon Valley is certainly seeking more leverage with minority lawmakers, and the outcry for diversity in tech is almost certainly the reason. "There are many ways companies and other organizations can establish a presence in Washington, and gain access to politicians," said Vivica Novak, spokesperson for the Center for Responsive Politics, to Politico. "And one way to do that -- that some people pay less attention to -- is by giving money to a charitable cause that a politician is associated with." Both the Congressional Hispanic Caucus Institute and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation are technically separate from the caucuses themselves, but they operate as nonprofit educational and policy arms of those groups, for example. Don't expect the spending to abate, as Apple and Google have increased spending in Washington D.C. over previous years. In 2014, when the diversity issue was just gaining steam, Apple only spent $249,000 on the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation. Last year, it partnered with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund for a $40 million project to improve computer science education at historically black colleges. It's hard to see how much leverage Silicon Valley can gain with honorary expenses, though. After little progress in diversity over the last year, the Congressional Black Caucus launched an initiative called Tech2020 to pressure the industry to increase hiring of blacks to technology jobs. Along with the initiative, members applied direct, in-person pressure to executives at Apple, Google, Intel and others, visiting Silicon Valley after Tech2020 launched last May. As Congressional Black Caucus chairman Rep. G.K. Butterfield said at the caucus foundation's annual conference in September, "Talk is not enough -- and we need more than an amen from the choir." He added, "We want to see results." Online firearm smuggling is seen as a threat in the United Kingdom after authorities claimed that terrorists use the platform to bring guns in and out of the British Island. Firearms officers believe that the increasing online firearm smuggling signals a danger to the Britain after the Paris terrorist attack. The National Lead for Countering Firearms and Chief Constable of West Midlands Police, Dave Thompson, said that the rising number of firearms circulating in the UK is now alarming. Thompson revealed that online firearm smuggling is now on the rise with guns prepared abroad and shipped to the UK, The Guardian reports. At present, it is still difficult for people to purchase guns and ammunition in UK. However, Thompson said that more guns and ammunitions are being sold in Germany and Balkan countries. "Traditionally you'd have seen maybe six or seven years ago we'd be stopping people at Dover with 10 Baikals [a type of firearm] concealed in compartments in the car. That's become less of a feature," Thompson said. "What's become more of a feature is weapons through the fast parcel system, individual items coming through. We have to watch a trend of disassembling the weapons and sending them in component parts." Thompson further said that the police needed extra armed officers and significant increase in firepower to arrest the possible threats, Independent claims. UK being an island makes it harder for the criminals to acquire firearms, he added. Armed robbers and drug gangs benefit from online firearm smuggling as suppliers sold guns to them. However, it could also pose severe danger if smugglers will be selling these items to extremists. "While we do plenty of firearms operations, we deal with people [criminals] who there is not much debate we are going to win the encounter with, because we're better trained, we're better capable, they generally don't fire back at us," he said. Meanwhile, a report published from the National Crime Agency (NCA) claimed that the agency has found that Czech made Skorpion submachine guns were imported into the UK, Telegraph reports. The ammunitions were allegedly shipped to street gangs in London and the South East. The hoarded guns were feared to land into the hands of the terrorists particularly the Jihadists, who have the intention to launch terror in the UK. With the danger of online firearm smuggling, Thompson warned that the police must be ready to face the battle. He said that police firearm officers must be funded well to avoid being outgunned in case of an armed terrorist attack. Opposition parliamentary and presidential candidates are planning to launch legal challenges against Uganda's electoral commission this week. Reports say that the electoral commission is prepared to face such move from the opposition following the results of the February 18 general elections. A spokesman for the electoral commission, Jotham Taremwa, said everybody agrees that the elections were a success and that everyone can go to the court in case they are not happy with the outcome. The Voice of America reported that independent candidate Patrick Amama Mbabazi and primary opposition leader of Forum for Democratic Change (FDC) Kizza Besigye dispute the outcome of the election. They told the media that they are heading to court, claiming there have been 'irregularities and rigging' involved, which led to the victory of incumbent President Yoweri Museveni. Badru Kiggundu, chairman of Uganda's electoral commission, announced Museveni as the winner of the presidential vote with 60.07 percent of the total vote cast. Kiggundu insisted that the general election is credible, despite reports by international and local election observers that the poll held in intimidating circumstances was neither 'free nor fair.' Joy Kabatsi, one of the candidates from the opposition who ran for parliament, told Al Jazeera that she found the ruling party officials stuffing pre-ticked ballot papers into ballot boxes. She also showed the news agency some samples of the pre-ticked ballots which she had found. Electoral law of Uganda says legal challenges can be submitted up to 10 days after the results are announced. According to Standard Media, Besigye and his party has yet to decide whether they will legally dispute the results. A spokeswoman for Besigye added that his detention has 'eaten some of the time' the party has to lodge a petition. Police officers prevented Kizza Besigye from traveling to vote in a local council election for fear that he will stimulate his supporters to engage in illegal protests. Meanwhile, EU urged Uganda's electoral commission to publish all the results from the 28,010 polling stations across the nations. The opposition believe that by publishing the results, the public will then know how the results were fabricated in favor of Museveni and his party, the National Resistance Movement. Feb 29, 2016, 4:03pm ET Tesla Gigafactory faces union walkout over out-of-state workers Construction workers don\'t want to see license plates from Arizona and New Mexico. Tesla's Gigafactory project has reportedly hit a snag after 100 or more Nevada union workers walked off the job on Monday. The Building and Construction Trades Council of Northern Nevada crew is said to be angry that construction contractor Brycon has hired workers from outside Nevada to help with construction. "It's a slap in the face to Nevada workers to walk through the parking lot at the job site and see all these license plates from Arizona and New Mexico," union president Todd Koch said in an interview with Bloomberg. As part of its agreement with state officials to secure more than $1 billion in tax incentives, Tesla agreed to hire Nevada residents for at least half of construction jobs and more than 75 percent of permanent workers in the factory. Tesla can request an exemption if it cannot achieve the goals, though Nevada residents accounted for 74 percent of construction workers in a recent quarterly update with the Governor's office, according to a RGJ report. "Today's activity stems from the local Carpenters Union protesting against one of the third-party construction contractors that Tesla is using," the automaker said in a statement. Tesla further suggests the union workers may be more concerned that Brycon is bringing in non-union workers rather than out-of-state help. "Their issue is that of the many third party contractors that are involved in the construction of the Gigafactory, many are union but the one at issue is not," the company added. The plant is expected to begin producing batteries sometime next year, likely coinciding with the Model 3 launch. Some reports suggest the project is ahead of schedule and could begin operations a year ahead of schedule. A Bethlehem woman is facing drug-related charges after city police said they found Xanax in a stolen vehicle. (file photo) Spencer Ann Leh, 20, of the 1500 block of High Street, was a passenger in a vehicle stopped by police at 9:40 p.m. Saturday on Elm Street,near East Union Boulevard. Police said the Toyota Corolla with New York license plates was stolen. Police said they searched the driver, Franky Roz Perez, 22, of Woodhaven, New York, and passengers. Leh was found with 50 pills of Xanax in one bottle and 84 pills of Xanax in another bottle, as well as $185 in cash. The prescription drug is used to treat anxiety. She also had an empty clear plastic bag and a cellphone, according to police. "Someone gave me pills to deliver to someone else," Leh allegedly told police during an interview. Leh is charged with felony possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance and misdemeanor possession of a controlled substance. She was arraigned Sunday before District Judge John Capobianco, who set bail at $7,500. In lieu of bail, Leh was taken to Northampton County Prison. The judge ordered Leh enroll in Pretrial Services and submit to random drug testing. The judge allowed 10 percent of $7,500 bail if Pretrial Services approved it. Perez was charged with unauthorized use of a vehicle. Yazmine Elliott, the vehicle's owner, reported the car stolen Thursday. Perez allegedly admitted to taking the vehicle without Elliott's permission. Perez was arraigned before Capobianco, who set bail at $5,000. In lieu of bail, Perez also was taken to Northampton County Prison. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. It's unclear why Christopher Williams brought a loaded gun to Musikfest. Christopher Williams Whatever the reason, Northampton County's president judge guessed it wasn't a good reason. "To have someone walking around with a loaded firearm is just what every parent and police officer in the Lehigh Valley don't want to hear," said President Judge Stephen Baratta. The 22-year-old from Upper Milford Township took a plea deal to drop the gun charge from a felony to a misdemeanor. He did not have a license to carry a concealed weapon. Baratta sentenced Williams to time served, which in his case is seven months. He will be paroled immediately to Lehigh County to answer to an unrelated charge. Since he has a 23-month maximum sentence on the Musikfest gun charge, he'll serve 16 months on parole, then an additional year on probation. Police took Williams to the ground and arrested him Aug. 14, 2015, in the 400 block of Main Street in Bethlehem. Williams began flailing his arms and pushing at the officers; it took five officers to get handcuffs on Williams, police said. Defense attorney John Waldron said Williams wants to put the incident behind him. "I want to accept full responsibility and apologize for my actions," Williams said. Williams said he wants to become a Realtor. Baratta said Williams could have had no good reason bringing a loaded gun to Musikfest. The gun, a .40-caliber Taurus pistol, had hollow-point bullets, police said. Waldron had intended to try to challenge the legality of the search of Williams prior to the plea deal. Williams has no serious criminal record. Baratta acknowledged Waldron negotiated a favorable plea deal. "Had you gone to trial and lost, I can assure you you would be going to state prison," Baratta said. Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook. A homeless man is accused of tossing a flat screen television at a woman during a heated dispute over money, Bethlehem police say. (file photo ) James David Hairston, 34, whose last known address was in Lake Wales, Florida, shortly after 2 a.m. Thursday allegedly began arguing with a woman he was in a relationship with at an apartment in the 1300 block of Howard Street. The victim told police in court records she had been in an on and off relationship with Hairston and allowed him to stay at her apartment when he was kicked out of his Florida home. The couple began fighting over money Hairston was unwilling to contribute toward food, police said. Hairston then pushed and pulled the victim's hair and punched her multiple times in the face, according to police. Once she ran and called 911, Hairston then tossed the flat screen television at her, police said. Hairston is charged with simple assault and harassment. He was arraigned Thursday before District Judge David Tidd, who set bail at 10 percent of $15,000. In lieu of bail, Hairston is being held at Northampton County Prison. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. Evan Castellanos left and Leah Cadwallader Evan Castellanos, left, and Leah Cadwallader (Courtesy photos) An Upper Macungie Township man who admitted last month to shooting a man through the chest in Bethlehem wants to fire his lawyer and retract his guilty plea. Evan Castellanos, 20, filed papers Friday asking to fire his hired attorney Joshua Karoly and replace him with a public defender. He also wants to pull his plea to attempted homicide. The deal carried a recommended sentence of 16 to 35 years in prison. Northampton County President Judge Stephen Baratta scheduled a hearing for Friday, March 4, to decide whether to allow the change. Castellanos and his girlfriend, Leah Cadwallader, lured Anthony Berliner out of his apartment on June 15, 2014, in the 600 block of Atlantic Street on Bethlehem's South Side, police said. Then Castellanos shot him once in the chest, police said. Castellanos and Cadwallader told police they were in New York at the time of the shooting, but a drug dealing associate of Castellanos testified Cadwallader and Castellanos gave him a ride from Kutztown to Bethlehem, according to court records. A grand jury recommended indicting the couple in November 2015. Castellanos was extradited to Northampton County from a Florida prison, where he was held on drug charges. Cadwallader, 19, of Lenhartsville in Berks County, Pa., is charged with conspiracy to commit attempted homicide and conspiracy to commit aggravated assault. Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook. The Easton Public Market's job fair from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Monday will be at First UCC Church, 27 N. Third St., Easton. It was moved from the market, which is in the 300 block of Northampton Street, due to ongoing construction, according to a news release. Enter through the side door on Church Street. What to eat at the market The job openings from vendors on-site Monday night, according to the Greater Easton Development Partnership, include: Fieldstone Coffee Roasters Positions include: Barista, assistant barista, roastery assistant, full and part time. Must have outgoing, positive, confident and very friendly attitude. Must love coffee or tea. All interested people send resume to info@fieldstonecoffeeroasters.com or request an application. Subject line: I love coffee! Dundore & Heister Butchery Dundore and Heister, a sustainable whole animal butcher shop opening an outpost in the Easton Public Market. Position: Dishwasher/porter. We're looking for hardworking, dedicated individuals who can maintain a clean, organized workspace. Responsibilities include washing dishes, help with daily set up and breakdown, and stocking of supplies. Position: Front of house staff. We're looking for motivated individuals who are interested in the lost art of craft butchery, and dedicated to a high level of customer service. Former culinary experience/education preferred but not required. All interested parties send resume to info@dundoreandheister.com. Subject Line: D&H at Easton Public Market The Taza Stop The Taza Stop, an Egyptian and Egyptian-inspired cuisine company, is looking for a line cook or cooks to join our team in Easton. We're are looking for hardworking, dedicated individuals who have experience in the food service industry. All interested parties send resumes to thetazastop@gmail.com. Mister Lee's Noodles Mister Lee's Noodles, a farm to table noodle bar from Lee and Erin Chizmar of Bolete Restaurant, seek staff to join their team in Easton. Positions: Casual front-of-house counter staff , skilled kitchen support All interested parties should send resumes to bolete2@gmail.com or call Erin at 484-809.-346 for additional information. Debbie's Pie In The Sky Debbie's Pie in the Sky seeks staff for location in Easton. Position: Entry-level assistant baker/counter helper sought, 16-20 hours per week (including weekends and evenings) with possible additional hours for holidays and summer/flexible. Goods to be produced include pies (fruit, cream, savory, quiche), cakes, pastries, breads, soups, appetizer assortments. Experience with cake decorating helpful but not required. Will train on all equipment. Positive, helpful attitude a must. Will also spend some time outdoors at the Easton Farmers' Market. Must be able to lift 25-50 pounds and stand for long periods of time. Starting salary: $10/hour. All interested parties send their resume to Debbie at lanedxl@gmail.com. 3rd & Ferry Fresh Fish 3rd & Ferry Fresh Fish, a local fresh fish monger, seeks staff. Position: Full-time sales and counter staff retail food market experience a plus. Position: Full-time fish cutter. Kitchen experience required. All interested parties should send resumes to: Rebeccap@belmonthosp.com The Farmstand The Farmstand is a food co-op style market within the Easton Public Market. Position: Part time sales floor support. Duties would include high level customer service, handling/rotating/preparing fresh produce and various grocery goods, manning a cash register, maintaining cleanliness of shop and work areas, and controlling inventory. Must be able to frequently lift 35 pounds upwards to 70 pounds. Seeking team members who are creative, action-oriented, and friendly with strong communication skills and who share our enthusiasm for building and strengthening relationships within our community through food. All interested parties should send resumes to wolf@eastonpartnership.org Positions are also available at: Chocodiem Full of Crepe More Than Q Barbeque Co. Olive with a Twist Youseff's Fruit & Nut Gallery (Job descriptions provided by the vendors and the partnership.) Tony Rhodin may be reached at arhodin@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyRhodin. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A fundraiser next month will aim to raise $2,000 for four Wilson Borough families displaced by a swift-moving blaze that gutted four homes. Firefighters battled through the night when the fire broke out along Ferry Street on Feb. 19. Homes at 1816, 1818, 1820 and 1822 Ferry St. were ravaged in the blaze with the home at 1820 getting the worst of it, fire officials said. Two senior women, a couple and a man were displaced. The seniors are staying with family members while the couple and man are believed to be staying at nearby hotels, according to neighbors. A fundraiser was launched by neighbor Kristin Krasznavolgyi and her partner, Caitlin Krasznavolgyi. It will be held from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. Monday, March 14, and Tuesday, March, 15 at the Texas Roadhouse restaurant in the Southmont Shopping Center in Bethlehem Township. Ten percent of patrons' total food service bill will be donated to the fire victims, organizers said. There also will be raffles for gift baskets, photo sessions and gift cards. Guests must alert their server to the fundraiser with a flier available at the restaurant entrance. They also can pull up news coverage about the fundraiser on their smartphones to help toward the effort, organizers said. "I was seeing the firetrucks go by and was just so heartbroken," said Kristin Krasznavolgyi, a server at Texas Roadhouse who also lives on Ferry Street. "To only have the stuff that you are wearing ... I just had to help them." There were no injuries in the fire, but a cat ran away from one of the homes and is lost, Kristin Krasznavolgyi said. "Losing a pet is losing a member of your family," she said. 4-home Wilson blaze battled through the night The couple is hoping to raise at least $2,000 to split between affected families. They already have helped, along with others, with clothing drives after contacting the five victims and learning their needs. "We hope to do as much as we can for them," Kristin Krasznavolgyi said. "We have such a supportive community." The American Red Cross of the Greater Lehigh Valley also has assisted. Pamela Sroka-Holzmann may be reached at pholzmann@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow her on Twitter @pamholzmann. Find lehighvalleylive.com on Facebook. A Northampton County prisoner admitted Monday he sprayed a guard using a bottle that contained feces. Mario Jesus Figueroa, 36, of Wilson Borough, will serve nine to 18 months in prison as part of the plea deal. He pleaded guilty Monday to aggravated harassment by a prisoner. A panel of 40 jurors was called in for Figueroa's trial, but he decided to take a plea deal late Monday afternoon. Figueroa sprayed the bottle on the guard on June 14, 2015, according to Northampton County Assistant District Attorney Michael Thompson. Police initially believed the bottle contained urine but later testing showed it contained fecal matter, Thompson said. Figueroa also pleaded guilty to public drunkenness for an incident in October at the Uni Mart on Northampton Street in Wilson Borough. He fought with police, who had to use a Taser to subdue him. Figueroa is supposed to receive a concurrent nine- to 18-month sentence in that case. He will be sentenced after he receives a drug and alcohol evaluation and a mental health evaluation. Figueroa told Northampton County Judge Anthony Beltrami he has collected government disability benefits since 2011 due to mental illness. He said he occasionally works for a temp agency. As part of the deal in the first case, prosecutors dropped simple assault and harassment charges. In the second case, a resisting arrest charge was dropped. Rudy Miller may be reached at rmiller@lehighvalleylive.com. Follow him on Twitter @RudyMillerLV. Find Easton area news on Facebook. We're hours away from the 88th Annual Academy Awards and the nominations are set. Oscars will be handed out in 24 categories from the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood, California starting at 8:30 p.m. ET on Sunday, February 28, 2016. Comedian Chris Rock will host despite the Oscars boycott by some of Hollywood's biggest names. The two leading Oscar contenders are "The Revenant" and "Mad Max: Fury Road." "The Revenant," which stars Leonardo DiCaprio and was directed by Alejandro Inarritu, received 12 nominations. "Mad Max: Fury Road" comes in next with 10 nominations, including a Best Picture nod for director, George Miller. And there are so many questions... Will Sly Stallone win his first Oscar portraying beloved Philly boxer Rocky Balboa for "Creed"? And poor Leo. Will he finally win his Oscar as a doomed trapper seeking revenge circa 1823? So who's nominated for this year's Academy Awards? A complete list of nominees below: Best Picture The Big Short Bridge of Spies Brooklyn Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Room Spotlight Best Director Adam McKay, The Big Short George Miller, Mad Max: Fury Road Alejandro G. Inarritu, The Revenant Lenny Abrahamson, Room Tom McCarthy, Spotlight Best Actor Bryan Cranston, Trumbo Matt Damon, The Martian Leonardo DiCaprio, The Revenant Michael Fassbender, Steve Jobs Eddie Redmayne, The Danish Girl Best Actress Cate Blanchett, Carol Brie Larson, Room Jennifer Lawrence, Joy Charlotte Rampling, 45 Years Saoirse Ronan, Brooklyn Best Supporting Actor Christian Bale, The Big Short Tom Hardy, The Revenant Mark Ruffalo, Spotlight Mark Rylance, Bridge of Spies Sylvester Stallone, Creed Best Supporting Actress Jennifer Jason Leigh, The Hateful Eight Rooney Mara, Carol Rachel McAdams, Spotlight Alicia Vikander, The Danish Girl Kate Winslet, Steve Jobs Best Original Screenplay Bridge of Spies Ex Machina Inside Out Spotlight Straight Outta Compton Best Adapted Screenplay The Big Short Brooklyn Carol The Martian Room Best Animated Feature Anomalisa Boy and the World Inside Out Shaun the Sheep Movie When Marnie Was There Best Foreign Language Film Embrace of the Serpent Mustang Son of Saul Theeb A War Best Documentary Feature Amy Cartel Land The Look of Silence What Happened, Miss Simone? Winter on Fire: Ukraine's Fight for Freedom Best Cinematography Carol The Hateful Eight Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant Sicario Best Film Editing The Big Short Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant Spotlight Star Wars: The Force Awakens Best Production Design Bridge of Spies The Danish Girl Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Best Costume Design Carol Cinderella The Danish Girl Mad Max: Fury Road The Revenant Best Original Score Bridge of Spies Carol The Hateful Eight Sicario Star Wars: The Force Awakens Best Original Song "Earned It," 50 Shades Of Grey "Manta Ray," Racing Extinction "Simple Song #3," Youth "Til It Happens to You," The Hunting Ground "Writing's on the Wall," Spectre Best Visual Effects Ex Machina Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Star Wars: The Force Awakens Best Makeup & Hairstyling Mad Max The 100-Year-Old Man Who Climbed Out a Window and Disappeared The Revenant Best Sound Mixing Bridge of Spies Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Star Wars: The Force Awakens Best Sound Editing Mad Max: Fury Road The Martian The Revenant Sicario Star Wars: The Force Awakens Best Documentary Short Body Team 12 Chau Behind the Lines Claude Lanzman A Girl in the River Last Day of Freedom Best Live Action Short Film Ave Maria Day One Everything Will Be Okay Shok Stutterer Best Animated Short Film Bear Story Prologue Sanjay's Super Team We Can't Live Without Cosmos World of Tomorrow Need an Oscar ballot for your party? Click here. Anthony Venutolo may be reached at avenutolo@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @AnthonyVenutolo and Google+. Find NJ.com on Facebook. I had not heard of the Manifesto Club until today, when the BBC Today programme featured their report into Public Space Protection Orders (1 hour 21 minutes in). On their website they claim: The Manifesto Club campaigns against the hyperregulation of everyday life. We support free movement across borders, free expression and free association. We challenge booze bans, photo bans, vetting and speech codes all new ways in which the state regulates everyday life on the streets, in workplaces and in our private lives. We believe that the freedom issues of the twenty-first century cut across old political boundaries, and require new schools of political thought, and new methods of campaigning and organisation. Our membership hails from all political traditions and none, and from all corners of the world. Back to Public Space Protection Orders: last month the Manifesto Club published a report called PSPOs: A busybodies charter. These are orders that local councils have been allowed to enact over the last year or so under the Anti-Social Behaviour, Crime and Policing Act, with minimal consultation. Indeed 79 local authorities have already done so, usually because they want to reduce anti-social behaviour. But the impact of these orders sometimes goes far beyond the intended targets and can seriously curb the human rights of citizens. The report highlights some bizarre laws, revealed under a Freedom of Information request. For example, it is a criminal (note, actually criminal) offence to: go out after 11pm on your own if you are under 18 in Kettering loiter or be in a group of more than 4 people in the vicinity of a motor vehicle, also in Kettering loiter and gather in groups of two or more persons in one area in Hillingdon (unless waiting for a bus) shout in Guildford park outside a primary school in Havering remain in a public toilet without reasonable excuse in Oxford carry a golf bag in North East Derbyshire use noisy remote controlled vehicles in Hillingdon cover the face in Sefton, Halton and Birmingham engage in pavement art in Swindon be in a camping vehicle in areas of Luton or Wolverhampton stand or wait around without apparent purpose in Blackpool. You couldnt make them up Some councils have banned busking and street entertainers, perhaps not aware that busking is licensed and encouraged on London Underground partly because it makes travellers feel safer. Of course, some of the orders have been quite sensible, such as requiring dog owners in Kingston and Ashfield to clear up dog mess, or banning aggressive charity collectors in Swindon. But as the report says: Some of the council reports justifying the introduction of a PSPO include statistics from the police regarding the number of assaults or acts of criminal damage in the area. But then the PSPO will criminalise actions such as loitering or congregating in a group, which in themselves bear no relation to a criminal act. Rather that enforce the criminal law they are creating a second, broader, pseudo-crime, which essentially allows the police to move anyone out of the area on the suspicion that they might do something wrong later on. The Today programme wheeled in Simon Blackburn, Leader of Blackpool Council, and Chair of the Local Government Associations Safer, Stronger Communities Board, to defend the orders. He suggested that we should distinguish between the law and how it is applied a slippery slope argument if ever there was. It is also worrying that some Public Space Preservation Orders have not been open to public debate. Indeed in 27 councils a council officer has authorised an order, without any democratic oversight. It is up to all of us to check whether our local council has created, or is planning to create, any Public Space Protection Orders, and whether they erode civil liberties. * Mary Reid is a contributing editor on Lib Dem Voice. She was a councillor in Kingston upon Thames, where she is still very active with the local party, and is the Hon President of Kingston Lib Dems. A number of problems spring to mind as we plan to take back control of our borders in the event of Brexit. Inevitably envisioning various scenarios demands a degree of speculation, but the following causes me a good deal of concern. I suspect Calais may become less of a flash point, though I have an inkling Cherbourg may develop as more of a destination de choix. Four times a week a giant ferry leaves there for Rosslare. For desperate people that have trekked across a continent and a half I doubt itll be seen as too great an added imposition. Once there the UK border is now approx 277 km away, all 500km of it! Crossings are available by motorway, country roads, dirt tracks, rail, boat and any number of random fields and.yes.. bogs. The border was policed, often quite officiously and occasionally with bullets, between 1923 and 1993. It is one of the great triumphs of late 1990s diplomacy that this is no longer the case. Once breached, a trek north to Antrim brings the wretched traveller to within 12 miles of the Scottish coastline, Id be interested to hear how the obsessive border controllers would deal with this situation. Do we undo 70 years of striving to remove the physical division of our own countrymen and their closest neighbours? Im sure Donald Trump or Benjamin Netanyahu could offer plentiful advice, but even from the point of view of the most introverted and regressive Brexiteer this would surely be several steps too far. There is a section of Unionist opinion who will almost always welcome the erection of bricks and mortar (and a few coils of barbed wire) between Belfast and Rome, but when the Leave campaign actively has to campaign for their support we shall know the fight is won. Or do we let our weary travellers fall into the clutches of traffickers new? In the week which saw Slab Murphy finally imprisoned after decades of nefarious cross border villainy, we need have little doubt that there will be a ready supply of experts to assist for the right price. So should we await the pitiful sight of childrens bodies washing ashore on Islay and Jura, as opposed to Lesbos, sweep up the survivors and drive them back to Dublin? Paris? Rome? Athens? Answers on the back of a fag packet please Brexiteers. * Simon Parker was a District Councillor (Wycombe District Council) from 2011 to 2015, and was group leader for a year during that time. Just over a week ago, on the Saturday, we had the news that its on 23 June. The following Sundays papers seemed to say that it is a Tory leadership challenge: depending on the paper, Cameron was declaring war on the rebels, others painted it as Gove versus Cameron, and then Boris Johnson joined the fray. The problem with referenda is the danger of people voting on a question other than the one on the ballot paper, but this seemed particularly extreme. It left a sense of the referendum being primarily about the internal mechanics of the Conservative party. Also on that Saturday, I heard Graham Watson say that the referendum is not in the bag, and we might be on the verge of a Brexit which would be the biggest foreign policy blunder since George III lost America over tea. He has a point. Putting the positive case for EU membership suddenly seemed difficult. It is hard to produce arguments based on reality when reality is being ignored. It suddenly seemed wise to focus the LibDem campaign on getting out our supporters and leave the undecided voters to StrongerIn. To complete the tale of doom, I have yet to hear any anti-EU arguments that hold water, so it feels as if people are responding to something which is hard to handle with the easier task of attacking leadership. The term anarchy seems spot on a chaotic attack on the possibility of authority, whether that is in Brussels or Downing St. It feels more like a primitive flight from reality perhaps I should call it a fight/flight response. My Lib Dem instincts want to assert themselves in saying lots of eminently sensible things about the value of being part of the EU. But I fear that wont be heard. At a Cambridge Lib Dem event recently we were invited to say something about why the EU matters. As I spoke, something hit a nerve. I thought of my great uncle talking of a friendship with a German boy which grew out of a school exchange in the 1930s. I thought of a close friend who is half French and half Austrian and was born in the UK. I thought of wise Eurocrats I have known. I had more than half an ear on the rich musical heritage of Europe. I celebrated the struggle and the complexity of the rich tapestry of European history. My instinctive reaction is to hide and brace myself for the worst both a no vote and what it would lead to. Perhaps I need to take the courageous path of recognising the fear that the eruption over the last week has surfaced in me, and choose to engage emotions rather than hide in my capacity for logic. But whether we are reeling after an electoral bruising last May, or recoiling in horror at the last weeks headlines, another sentence that draws strong reaction from me is the start of the preamble to our constitution: The Liberal Democrats exist to build and safeguard a fair, free and open society, in which we seek to balance the fundamental values of liberty, equality and community, and in which no one shall be enslaved by poverty, ignorance or conformity. Right now it feels as if the Europe debate desperately needs the heart that can hold that sentiment and the courage to give it voice. * Mark Argent was the Liberal Democrat candidate in Huntingdon Constituency in 2019 and blogs at markargent.com/blog. The European in-out referendum dominated the South Central Regional Conference last Saturday. Speakers included Catherine Bearder, our own MEP, who spoke of the complete negativity of the large contingent of UKIP in the European Parliament. Not everyone accepted that the EU is a force for good. As one questioner asked, how can our party muster enthusiasm to campaign for an organization that is obviously undemocratic and very deeply flawed? Perhaps the Outers are right; there really are sunlit uplands outside the EU, where the UK can benefit from truly representative democracy, run companies uninhibited by red tape and carry out extensive worldwide trade. As a Libdem member who is lukewarm about the EU, I have found this a tricky question. Nevertheless I will be campaigning with enthusiasm, and heres why. Leaving the EU would only be the beginning of the journey. I want more representative democracy, but as the AV Referendum made it painfully clear, our political leaders have neither the faintest idea of how to achieve this, nor the will to push the job through. When the outers complain about red tape from Brussels, they forget that Britain has already achieved world class leadership in red tape, without any help from Brussels. We have by far the longest tax code in the world, amounting to 17,000 pages, and this might be even longer if our urge to write new tax laws was not constrained by EU regulations. By contrast Hong Kong, no economic slouch, has a tax code only 267 pages in length. We wish to carry out extensive worldwide trade, we will need to put in place dozens of trade agreements. Perhaps these will be drawn up with the public interest at heart. More likely they will be written to benefit the wealthy and powerful individuals who operate from our many British tax havens, who will breathe a collective sigh of relief at being no longer constrained by Brussels. We may eventually reach the sunlit uplands that we are promised, but this would take competence, persistence, and dedication. Can we expect such qualities from Boris Johnson? Will Nigel Farage have the patience to stop his destructive grandstanding and engage in some self effacement? So it is possible to muster the enthusiasm to campaign for staying in the EU, despite its flawed, undemocratic and lumbering nature. It helps to visualize the following scene. While our economy stutters, the pound tanks, and property values plunge, an Etonian fop with tousled blond hair breaks into an winningly self deprecating smile, and blurts Cripes sorry about that, chaps. All those devilish dull details- such a bore!. * David Cooper is a member and constituency treasurer of the Newbury Liberal Democrats and has been a party activist for over a decade. He is also secretary of Libdem ALTER (Action for Land Taxation & Economic Reform). The views expressed are his own. A NEW channel cut by the river Feale is a serious threat to the Abbeyfeale water supply, local man Jim OConnor warned this week. And the concern is that the new channel, which bypasses the towns water treatment plant, could become the new course for the river. What we said would happen, has happened now, or at least partly, said Mr OConnor, a supervisor at the town park which overlooks the river. In 2014, Mr OConnor warned that the river could open up a new, straighter course instead of winding its way round a U-shaped bend. Now, following weeks of heavy floodwaters, that has happened. A new channel, which Mr OConnor estimates to be about half a mile long, has opened up. . 80% of the river is still going along the old course but 20% is going along the new channel, Mr OConnor explained. The next flood will cut even more and even more water will go through the new channel. Or maybe all the water, depending on how much rain we get, he added. If it ever happens that we get a good summer, most of the water would flow down the new channel leaving only stagnant water at the pumping station, or else leaving it dry. And if we get a wet summer, it will cut the channel even more, Mr OConnor warned. Already a new island has formed in the river and eventually, Mr OConnor said, an oxbow lake could develop as the new channel deepens and cuts off the U-bend. I have notified the schools to come and see the birth of an ox-bow lake, he told the Limerick Leader. In 2014, both Mr OConnor and local councillor Mayor Liam Galvin, called for urgent action on the issue. And they also asked the then Limerick County Council to liaise with the OPW on the matter. The next flood could take the river away from the treatment plant, Cllr Galvin said at the time. The councils response was that they would ask an engineer to investigate. But no action has been undertaken since. A MAN who failed the intoxalyser test and admitted to driving the car had his case dismissed because there was no evidence of time of driving. Richard Lynch, aged 31, of Bank Place, Hospital pleaded not guilty at Kilmallock Court to drunken driving. Sergeant Michael Brennan said at approximately 11.20pm on November 7, 2015, he went to the scene of a single vehicle road traffic accident at Coolscart, Hospital. At my arrival at the scene a car was crashed into a ditch. There were two males in the immediate vicinity of the car. One of the persons was known to me as Richard Lynch. After caution he admitted to being the driver at the time of the accident. While speaking to Mr Lynch I noted he was unsteady on his feet, his speech was slurred and his eyes tired looking. I could detect a strong smell of alcohol from his breath, said Sgt Brennan, who arrested him for drunken driving. The Bruff sergeant conveyed Lynch to the station where Sergeant Ted Riordan carried out the intoxalyser test. The reading was 58mgs of alcohol per 100mls of breath, said Sgt Brennan. Sharon Davern, solicitor for Lynch, put it to the sergeant that her client co-operated before and after his arrest. Yes, the other man was in quite a lot of discomfort and Mr Lynch took responsibility for driving the car, said Sgt Brennan. Sgt Riordan gave evidence of the intoxalyser test including offering the defendant the choice of having the print-out in English and Irish. Ms Davern applied for a direction from Judge Marian OLeary due to the failure of the State to prove their case. Ms Davern said that absolutely no evidence presented in court proved Lynch had been at the wheel in the three hours before he provided a breath sample. She cited case law from Justice OHiggins from 2000. It is an essential proof that cannot be overcome, she said. Sergeant Michelle Leahy said gardai got a report of the car accident. We did not see it. He admitted to Sergeant Brennan at the scene that he was the driver, said Sgt Leahy. Judge Marian OLeary dismissed the case. There is no evidence of time, she said. INTERNATIONALLY acclaimed writers such as Louis de Bernieres writer of Captain Corellis Mandolin Tim Pat Coogan, Claire Keegan, Judi Curtin, Kevin Myers and Donal Ryan were included among an impressive line-up of participants in this years Limerick Literary Festival, which took place over the weekend. The festival, previously known as the Kate OBrien Weekend, has been held annually since 1984 in honour of the life and works of the Limerick-born novelist and playwright. The theme of this years festival was Rebellion, in keeping with the centenary of the 1916 Rising and it was officially opened by journalist Kevin Myers at the Limerick City Gallery of Art on Friday evening, who hailed OBrien as one of the most important writers of the 20th Century, followed by a recital by soprano Claudia Boyle. Mr de Bernieres read from The Dust that Falls from Dreams in the Gallery on Saturday, while locally based author Donal Ryan took part in the Desert Island Books session on Sunday morning and Sarah Baume was named winner of the Kate O'Brien Award. The award is for the best novel or short story collection by a debut Irish female writer. A number of other readings, lectures and panel discussions also took place across the four days of the festival. We and our partners use cookies to Store and/or access information on a device. We and our partners use data for Personalised ads and content, ad and content measurement, audience insights and product development. An example of data being processed may be a unique identifier stored in a cookie. Some of our partners may process your data as a part of their legitimate business interest without asking for consent. To view the purposes they believe they have legitimate interest for, or to object to this data processing use the vendor list link below. The consent submitted will only be used for data processing originating from this website. If you would like to change your settings or withdraw consent at any time, the link to do so is in our privacy policy accessible from our home page. Finding Krishna through dance To mark Women's Day, 'Anamika', which merges classical dance forms with theatre, will be staged in Mumbai for the first time next week /news/talking-point/finding-krishna-through-dance-111651815396079.html 111651815396079 story Anamika is a womans search for passion, for strength, for meaning. At its crux is the Bhakti philosophy that believes that there is a personal relationship between you and your passion, whatever that passion is," says director Meghna Das, whose production, AnamikaSearching For Krishna, will be staged at the National Centre for the Performing Arts (NCPA), Mumbai, on 2 March, to mark Womens Day, which falls on 8 March. The collaborative project merges three distinct classical dance formsBharatanatyam, Odissi and Kathakwith contemporary theatre. It came out of the desire to take classical arts in a way that was more accessible and reached a new audience," says Das, explaining that though the performances tell the stories of women from Indian mythology Devaki, Radha and Draupadiwhose lives were shaped by Lord Krishna, the emotions evoked are universal and timeless. Anamika in Sanskrit means one who has no name, so in short she represents just anybody. I wanted people who watched it to think, Hey that could have been me," she says. This is the fourth run of the show, and the first outside Bengaluru where it was first staged in February 2015. The play is being staged in Mumbai for the first time. Actor Lekha Naidu, who plays the role of the universal woman, sets the context of this production through a monologue during which she morphs from one role to the next. From a career woman who is forced to leave behind her baby with a capable, new nanny, to a young woman who sneaks out of home to meet a new lover, and last but not least, a woman who is a victim of a sexual crime. As Naidu acts, a parallel performance, executed by the three dancers, takes place behind her. As she delves into the lament of the career woman, another mothers lament is related through Preethi Bharadwajs Bharatanatyam performance. Devaki, the biological mother of Lord Krishna, is forced to hand over her child to Yashoda and Nanda in Gokul. And while she knows that this saves him from a sure death at the hands of the tyrant Kamsa, her brother, she cannot help but yearn for the child she has lost. Motherhood is almost always linked to Yashoda but I wanted to do Devaki because it was still unexplored," says Bharadwaj, adding that the performance was choreographed to a poem composed by Kulashekhara Alwar, the seventh of the 12 alwar saints of south India. Freshly minted love, full of cutesy instances, shy glances and memories that warm your heart is the next theme that Naidu explores in this production. And Radha, errant wife and reckless lover of the young Krishna, embodies it. As an Odissi dancer, I was introduced to Jaydevas poetry very early. We do a lot of work with the Geet Govinda and I have performed pieces from there for many years," says the director. The final piece deals with a woman being violated, humiliated and let down. Like Draupadi. Pooja Pant, whose Kathak performance tells the story of the common wife of the five Pandava brothers, explains that she will be performing in the Baithaki styleseated, she will use hand movements and facial expressions to convey the different emotions. AnamikaSearching For Krishna will be staged on 2 March, 6pm/8pm at the Experimental Theatre, National Centre for the Performing Arts, NCPA Marg, Nariman Point, Mumbai. Tickets, 250, 500, available at in.bookmyshow.com NEW DELHI : Chris rocks The last time Chris Rock hosted the Oscars, in 2005, he started his monologue by noting that there were four black nominees. This time, he began like this: Man, I counted at least 15 black people on that montage. Im here at the Academy Awards, otherwise known as the White Peoples Choice Awards. You realize if they nominated hosts, I wouldnt even get this job. That was just the start. Rock went on to skewer the Academys (and Hollywoods) lack of diversity. After years of bland monologues full of in-jokes and self-congratulation, it felt vital and dangerous. On why protests over industry whiteness were a recent phenomenon, he pointed out that, in the early decades of cinema, We had real things to protest; were too busy being raped and lynched to care about who won best cinematographer. It was no small fortune that someone like Rock was hosting this year; its difficult to imagine many others being able to plainly state, Is Hollywood racist? Youre damn right Hollywood is racist. (Also read Chris Rock re-imagines nominated movies with black actors) The kindest cut Margaret Sixel poses with her Oscar for Best Film Editing, Mad Max: Fury Road. Photo: AFP The last time a woman won for Best EditingThelma Schoonmaker for The Departedwas 10 years ago. But this wasnt the only reason Margaret Sixels win for Mad Max: Fury Road (directed by her husband, George Miller) was refreshing. As she pointed out in her acceptance speech, theres a sexist assumption in the industry that women cant cut action, an assumption that the varied careers of Schoonmaker, Dede Allen and Sally Menke make a mockery of. Taking a stand .@kesharose I'll be thinking of u 2nite. This is not over we'll stand by u until you are free to live a HAPPY life. Everyone deserves that. Lady Gaga (@ladygaga) February 28, 2016 It wasnt just the multiple calls for racial equality in American cinema. Hollywoods liberal bent was front and centre at this years awards. US Vice-president Joe Biden asked people to take a pledge to end the silence surrounding rape. Lady Gaga dedicated her performance of Til It Happens to You to Ke$ha, whose allegations of sexual assault against her producer werent enough to get her out of a contract with him. Leonardo DiCaprio, Best Actor winner, talked about climate change. Sam Smith dedicated his win to LGBT people all around the world. And the Spotlight team called on the Vatican to end sexual abuse by its members. All roads lead to Mad Max They will ride eternal, shiny and with Oscar gold. Congrats to the team from #MadMax: Fury Road. #Oscars pic.twitter.com/FXQaUweLwM Mad Max Movie (@MadMaxMovie) February 29, 2016 Mad Max: Fury Road emerged as the biggest winner, picking up Production Design, Editing, Costume, Hair and Makeup, Sound Editing and Sound Mixing. This near-sweep of the technical categories notwithstanding, it couldnt make enough headway to fight off Spotlight for Best Picture or Alejandro Inarritu for Best Director. Still, this was a dream showing by a film with few pretensions to awards-season artiness, but which was nonetheless art of the most memorable sort. Thank you, scroll Global fusion "This is what happens when determined women get together." Bravo, Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy! #Oscars pic.twitter.com/TqqKhY3HXK Tribeca (@Tribeca) February 29, 2016 Though the whiteness of Hollywood was the evenings dominant theme, it was interesting to note how much non-American talent made its way onto stage. Australian accents were heard giving thanks every time Fury Road won something. Chile won its first Oscar, for Live Action Short (Gabriel Osorio and Pato Escalas Bear Story). Pakistans Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy won her second Oscar (for Documentary Short) for A Girl in the River: The Price of Forgiveness. Irelands Benjamin Cleary won for Best Action Short, Swedens Alicia Vikander for Best Supporting Actress, and Italys Ennio Morricone for Best Score. And the Mexican duo of Alejandro Inarritu and Emmanuel Lubezki repeated their Best Director-Cinematographer sweep of last year. One of the largest known carnivorous dinosaurs, Tyrannosaurus rex T. rex, for short is also arguably the most iconic. With a star turn in the "Jurassic Park" franchise and a renowned exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City among many other pop culture moments, T. rex maintains a reputation as king of the dinosaurs. In fact, the animal's name means "king of the tyrant lizards". "Tyranno" means tyrant in Greek; "saurus" means lizard in Greek; and "rex" translates to "king" in Latin. In 1905, Henry Fairfield Osborn, president of the American Museum of Natural History at the time, officially dubbed the species Tyrannosaurus rex. T. rex was a member of the Tyrannosauroidea family of huge predatory dinosaurs with small arms and two-fingered hands. Aside from Tyrannosaurs, other Tyrannosaurid genera include Albertosaurus, Alectrosaurus, Alioramus, Chingkankousaurus, Daspletosaurus, Eotyrannus, Gorgosaurus, Nanotyrannus (a controversial genus that experts say is likely an adolescent T. rex), Prodeinodon, Tarbosaurus and Zhuchengtyrannus. T. rex fossils are found in western North America, from Alberta to Texas. But it's possible that T. rex was an invasive species from Asia, according to a 2016 study published in Scientific Reports. An analysis of T. rex's skeletal features showed that the dinosaur king was more similar to two Tyrannosaurs in Asia, Tarbosaurus and Zhuchengtyrannus, than it was to North American Tyrannosaurs, the researchers told Live Science. The animals may have crossed over about 67 million years ago when the seaway between Asia and North America receded. However, the finding is still preliminary, and other experts maintain that T. rex evolved in North America, the researchers acknowledged. T. rex fossils reveal that the animals could grow to 40 feet (12.2 m) in length. (Image credit: Kirstin Brink) How big was T. rex? The most complete T. rex skeleton ever found was nicknamed Sue after its discoverer, paleontologist Sue Hendrickson. Measurements of Sue suggest T. rex was one of the largest carnivorous dinosaurs to ever live, coming in at up to 13 feet (4 meters) tall at the hips (the beast's highest point since it did not stand erect) and 40 feet (12.3 m) long. A recent analysis of Sue, published in 2011 in the journal PLOS ONE, shows T. rex weighed as much as 9 tons (about 8,160 kilograms). In 2019, researchers published the discovery of another T. rex fossil, nicknamed "Scotty," that edged out Sue as the most massive of its kind, likely weighing in at 19,555 lbs. (8,870 kilograms) in life. Scotty also likely lived longer than many of its fellows, outlasting Sue's 28 years to live to the ripe old (for a Tyrannosaurus) age of 30. T. rex had strong thighs and a powerful tail, which counterbalanced its large head (Sue's skull is 5 feet, or 1.5 m, long) and allowed it to move quickly. The 2011 study, which also modeled T. rex's muscle distribution and center of mass, suggests the giant could run 10 to 25 mph (17 to 40 km/h), as previous studies had estimated. Its two-fingered forearms were puny, making it unlikely that T. rex could use them to kill or even get a meal to its mouth. However, it's possible that T. rex had such tiny arms because of its powerful bite, according to research from Michael Habib, an assistant professor of clinical cell and neurobiology at the University of Southern California and a research associate at the Dinosaur Institute at the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County. The "king of dinosaurs" needed thick neck muscles to hold up its large skull and power its forceful bite. Neck and arms muscles compete for space in the shoulder, and it appears that the neck muscles edged out the arm muscles in T. rex's case, according to Habib's research. Moreover, long arms can be broken, are vulnerable to disease, and take energy to maintain, so having short arms may have been beneficial to the king in the long run, Habib's research shows. The real work of dispensing with its prey was left to the dinosaur's massive and thick skull. T. rex had the strongest bite of any land animal that ever lived, according to a 2012 study in the journal Biology Letters. The dinosaur's bite could exert up to 12,814 pounds-force (57,000 Newtons), which is roughly equivalent to the force of a medium-size elephant sitting down. Artwork by Scott Hartman reveals the bone structure of T. rex. (Image credit: Scott Hartman / All rights reserved) T. rex had a mouth full of serrated teeth; the largest tooth of any carnivorous dinosaur ever found was 12 inches (30 centimeters) long. But not all of the dinosaur's teeth served the same function, according to a 2012 study in the Canadian Journal of Earth Sciences. Specifically, the dinosaur's front teeth gripped and pulled; its side teeth tore flesh, and its back teeth diced chunks of meat and forced food into the throat. Importantly, T. rex's teeth were wide and somewhat dull (rather than being flat and daggerlike), allowing the teeth to withstand the forces exerted by struggling prey, the study found. T. rex may be big, but its predecessors were small. The first tyrannosaurs, which were human- to horse-size, originated about 170 million years ago during the mid-Jurassic. Though lacking in stature, these little tyrannosaurs had advanced brains and advanced sensory perceptions, including hearing, a 2016 study detailed in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences revealed. The finding, on a newfound mid-Cretaceous tyrannosaur named Timurlengia euotica, suggests that the advanced brains tyrannosaurs developed while they were still small helped them become apex predators once they grew to T. rex's size. Teenage T. rex were more lightly built and faster than the much larger, lumbering, bone-crushing adults they would grow into. (Image credit: Julius T. Csotonyi) What did T. rex eat? T. rex was a huge carnivore and primarily ate herbivorous dinosaurs, including Edmontosaurus and Triceratops. The predator acquired its food through scavenging and hunting, grew incredibly fast and ate hundreds of pounds at a time, said University of Kansas paleontologist David Burnham. "T. rex was probably opportunistic and may have fed on carcasses, but that is not a very abundant or consistent food source," Burnham told Live Science. "T. rex had a hard life. They had to go out and kill for food when they were hungry." For many years, the evidence that T. rex actually hunted for its meals was circumstantial and included such things as bones with bite marks, teeth near carcasses and foot tracks suggesting pursuits, Burnham said. But in a 2013 study in the journal Proceedings of the National Academy of Science, Burnham and his colleagues unveiled direct evidence of T. rex's predatory nature: a T. rex tooth embedded in a duckbill dinosaur's tailbone, which healed over the tooth (meaning the duckbill got away). "We found the smoking gun!" Burnham said. "With this discovery, we now know the monster in our dreams is real." T. rex was also not above enjoying another T. rex for dinner, according to a 2010 analysis published in PLOS ONE of T. rex bones with deep gashes created by T. rex teeth. However, it's not clear if the cannibalistic dinosaurs fought to the death or merely ate the carcasses of their own kind. Scientists are unsure whether T. rex hunted alone or in packs. In 2014, researchers found dinosaur track marks in the foothills of the Canadian Rockies in British Columbia out of the seven tracks, three belonged to Tyrannosaurids, most likely Albertosaurus, Gorgosaurus or Daspletosaurus. The study, published in PLOS ONE, suggests that T. rex's relatives, at least, hunted in packs. When and where did T. rex live? T. rex fossils are found in a variety of rock formations dating to the Maastrichtian age of the upper Cretaceous period, which lasted from 67 million to 65 million years ago, toward the end of the Mesozoic Era. It was among the last of the non-avian dinosaurs to exist prior to the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction event, which wiped out the dinosaurs. More mobile than many other land-based dinosaurs, T. rex roamed throughout what is now western North America, at the time an island continent identified as Laramidia. More than 50 skeletons of T. rex have been unearthed, according to National Geographic (opens in new tab). Some of these remains are nearly complete skeletons, and at least one skeleton included soft tissue and proteins. [Image Gallery: The Life of T. Rex] Fossil hunter Barnum Brown discovered the first partial skeleton of a T. rex in the Montana portion of the Hell Creek Formation in 1902. He later sold this specimen to the Carnegie Museum of Natural History in Pittsburgh. Another T. rex fossil discovery of his, also from Hell Creek, is on display in the American Museum of Natural History in New York. In 2007, scientists unearthed what may be a T. rex footprint in Hell Creek, and described their discovery in the journal Palaios. If the track did indeed belong to T. rex, it would be only the second confirmed T. rex footprint ever discovered, the first being a footprint discovered in New Mexico in 1993. Kim Ann Zimmermann and Live Science senior writer Laura Geggel contributed to this article. It was updated again on April 20, 2021 by Live Science Reference Editor Vicky Stein. Learn about T. rex's massive teeth, bones, habitat and other dinosaur secrets. (Image credit: Ross Toro, Livescience contributor) Related pages More dinosaurs Time periods Precambrian: Facts About the Beginning of Time Paleozoic Era: Facts & Information Mesozoic Era: Age of the Dinosaurs Cenozoic Era: Facts About Climate, Animals & Plants Additional resources An adult T. rex on display at the Dinosaur Discovery Museum in Kenosha, Wisconsin. Tyrannosaurus rex, king of the dinosaur age, wasn't a North American native as many experts had previously thought, a new study suggests. Instead, the giant tyrannosaur was likely an invasive species from Asia that dispersed into western North America once the opportunity presented itself, paleontologists said. "It's possible that T. rex was an immigrant species from Asia," said study co-researcher Steve Brusatte, a paleontologist at the University of Edinburgh in Scotland. But he cautioned that the finding isn't necessarily a "slam dunk," and that more research is needed to say for sure. [Gory Guts: See Photos of a T. Rex Autopsy] T. rex is one of the biggest meat eaters ever to live on land, but relatively little is known about its family tree. In a study published earlier this month, Brusatte and Thomas Carr, an associate professor of biology at Carthage College in Wisconsin, analyzed 28 different tyrannosaur species and constructed a family tree, noting approximately when and where each species lived. A family tree showing 28 species in the tyrannosaur family tree, including approximately when and where they lived. (Image credit: Stephen Brusatte and Thomas Carr. Scientific Reports. 2016. ) Fossil evidence is lacking, but researchers suspect that the predecessors of tyrannosaurs lived on the supercontinent Pangaea, which began to break up about 200 million years ago, during the Triassic period. This would explain why tyrannosaurs fossils have been found on different continents, including Asia, western North America (called Laramidia at the time), eastern North America (Appalachia) and Europe, Carr said. As time went on, the tyrannosaurs evolved in their respective places, meaning that the tyrannosaurs in Asia grew to look different than the ones in North America. But, around 67 million years ago, the seaway between Asia and North America went down, leaving a land bridge between the two continents, Carr said. Perhaps T. rex crossed this route into North America, Carr said. Researchers have uncovered countless T. rex fossils in western North America, but a careful analysis of T. rex's skeletal features suggests that it is Asian in origin, the paleontologists found. In fact, T. rex is closely related to two Asian tyrannosaurs, Tarbosaurus and Zhuchengtyrannus, the researchers found. "Tarbosaurus is the Asian version of T. rex," Brusatte told Live Science in an email. "Or, you could say that T. rex is the North American version of Tarbosaurus. They are so similar in terms of their monstrous size, their proportions, their massive jaw muscles and thick teeth and even many minutiae of their skull bones." Zhuchengtyrannus is also similar to T. rex, though it's more distantly related, Brusatte and Carr said. Asian invasion T. rex lived from about 67 million to 65 million years ago, going extinct when a 6-mile-long (10 kilometers) asteroid slammed into Earth and killed the nonavian dinosaurs. During that time, the 7-ton (6.3 metric tons) T. rex monster spread from modern-day Alberta to Texas. (A giant seaway in the middle of North America prevented T. rex from reaching the East Coast, the researchers said.) Before T. rex invaded North America, presumably from Asia, other tyrannosaurs lived in western North America, but they disappeared shortly after T. rex came onto the scene. It's unclear why these large tyrannosaurs went extinct, but T. rex may have played a role in their demise, the researchers said. [Photos: The Near-Complete Wankel T. Rex ] "Regardless of where T. rex comes from, when it enters the fossil record, it seems to take over immediately, like an invasive species," Brusette said. "It rose to the top of the food chain and elbowed out all competitors or perhaps I should say outmuscled them, as their pathetic little arms didn't have very big elbows." The new finding contradicts earlier studies, some of which say that T. rex is the culmination of tens of millions of years of dinosaur evolution within North America, Brusatte said. "This also is a good example of how different family trees can imply different things about evolution," Brusatte said. "This is why we spend so much time building family trees for fossil groups: They tell us how different species are related to each other, which then allows us to tease out their evolutionary stories, the same way constructing genealogies for our own families tells us how our ancestors led to us." The study was published online Feb. 2 in the journal Scientific Reports (opens in new tab). Follow Laura Geggel on Twitter @LauraGeggel. Follow Live Science @livescience, Facebook & Google+. Original article on Live Science. An Egyptologist has suggested hidden chambers lie behind a wall in King Tut's tomb. Forthcoming scans may reveal whether such chambers exist. On April 2, a new series of radar scans will be performed on King Tutankhamun's tomb to search for hidden chambers that may contain an undiscovered royal burial, Egypt's antiquities ministry has announced. The announcement comes after stories were published in numerous media outlets last week claiming that Egypt's tourism minister, Hisham Zazou, had told the Spanish news outlet ABC that the chambers had been proven to exist and contain numerous treasures. "The Ministry of Antiquities has not issued any statement concerning the results that have been reached so far," the ministry said in a statement released to Live Science. "Further radar examinations will be performed on April 2, and a press conference will be held afterwards to announce the results of the scan." [See Photos of King Tut's Mummy & His Burial] Last year, University of Arizona Egyptologist Nicholas Reeves published findings suggesting that there are hidden chambers behind a wall in Tutankhamun's tomb. These chambers, he believes, hold the burial of Queen Nefertiti, the wife of Akhenaten, a pharaoh who was Tutankhamun's father. "We could be faced, for the first time in recent history, with the intact burial of an Egyptian pharaoh in the Valley of the Kings," Reeves told Live Science last year. King Tutankhamun lived between roughly 1343 and 1323 B.C. (Image credit: Horemweb Wikimedia.) Scans performed by Factum Arte, a company commissioned to scan Tutankhamun's tomb, show unusual lines and abnormalities in the plaster of the tomb, Reeves said, adding that these features indicate that a wall was built over a doorway in ancient times. Some of the artifacts in Tutankhamun's tomb were originally made for Nefertiti but were buried with Tutankhamun after the boy king's death, Reeves found. Radar scans performed on the tomb last year suggest that a void could exist behind the wall. Egypt's former antiquities minister, Zahi Hawass, urged that the claims be viewed cautiously. He noted that the geology of the Valley of the Kings can lead radar to produce false positives showing a tomb when, in fact, there is only a natural feature. Reeves did not immediately respond to Live Science's requests for comment on the latest developments. Tourism disaster Tourism has long been a major industry in Egypt. Since the revolution that toppled former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak in 2011, Egypt's tourism industry has struggled, archaeologists have told Live Science. The political instability over the past five years has meant that the number of visitors to Egypt has yet to return to its prerevolution levels. Additionally, recent terrorist attacks including the bombing of a Russian plane in the Sinai Desert, an attack carried out by the Islamic State group, or ISIS have made it difficult for the Egyptian government to convince tourists that the country is safe to visit, according to these archaeologists. Egyptian officials hope that, if a hidden tomb is discovered, it will spur tourists (opens in new tab) to return to Egypt, bringing badly needed revenue and jobs to the country. Follow Live Science @livescience, Facebook & Google+. Original article on Live Science. In this computed tomography of the mans abdomen and pelvis, the yellow arrow points to the thin, white line lining his bladder a sign of the calcification of his bladder. The white arrow points to the calcification of part of his lower bowel. A man in Qatar who had blood in his urine and pain for more than a month when he peed found out that his symptoms were caused by his body's attempt to fight off a parasitic worm infection, a new case report reveals. Blood in the urine can be a telltale sign that a person is infected with the Schistosoma parasite, which is common in many parts of the world, such as Africa and Asia. But images taken of the 43-year-old man's abdomen and pelvis gave doctors another important clue: He had a condition called a calcified bladder, according to the case report, published online Wednesday (Feb. 24) in The New England Journal of Medicine. In this man's case, the Schistosoma parasites were living near the man's bladder and ureters, the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder, said Dr. Ronald Blanton, a professor of international health at the Center for Global Health and Diseases at the Case Western Reserve University School of Medicine in Cleveland. Blanton studies schistosomiasis (also known as snail fever or bilharzia) but was not involved in the man's case. The eggs of the parasite can enter the bladder and become deposited on its walls. But then, the body's immune response causes that part of the bladder wall to become calcified, Blanton explained. Indeed, pelvic scans taken at the hospital showed the man had a thin rim of calcification resembling an eggshell forming a border around his bladder a pattern known as "eggshell calcification," he said. [16 Oddest Medical Cases] A common infection Schistosomiasis is a parasitic worm disease that is transmitted by snails living in freshwater. The worms that cause the infection are not found in the United States, but more than 200 million people carry Schistosoma infections worldwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. In this CT scan, the white arrow points to the calcification of the mans bladder, and the yellow arrow indicates the slight calcification of one of his ureters. (The ureters are the tubes that connect the kidneys to the bladder.) (Image credit: The New England Journal of Medicine 2016) People become infected when larvae from the parasitic worms are released by freshwater snails, and penetrate the skin when a person comes in contact with contaminated water, Blanton said. Children may become infected by swimming in infested water, while men who are farmers, fishermen or irrigation workers and women who are washing clothes and fetching water can also contract the disease, he explained. Once the parasite enters the skin, it matures into adult worms that live within veins, and the females can produce eggs, Blanton said. Some eggs get eliminated from the body in urine or feces, while others become trapped in body tissues, provoking a strong immune response, he said. Schistosoma haematobium was thespecies of parasite responsible for the infection in the man's bladder, Blanton told Live Science. This species tends to be found in Africa, parts of the Middle East, and Corsica, France, according to the World Health Organization. Blanton said he doesn't know of many cases of schistosomiasis being reported in Qatar. However, because many details of the man's medical history were not included in the case report, it's unclear where he originally acquired the infection. Eggshell calcification The images also revealed that the man had calcification of the seminal vesicles the male reproductive gland that helps produce semen and in part of his bowel. Schistosomiasis of the bladder, as well as schistosomiasis of other portions of the urinary or reproductive tracts in men and women, may produce this characteristic calcification, which is used to help doctors diagnose the infection. A positive antibody test also confirmed the presence of the parasite. Calcification is not unusual in people with schistosomiasis, but in the man's case, the scans showed that his whole bladder is encased in a wall of calcium, Blanton said. Such extensive calcification is indicative of a long-standing inflammatory response in the bladder, meaning that the infection has been going on for a long time, he said. "Calcification takes about five years to develop," Blanton said, adding that he suspects the man likely had become infected by the Schistosoma parasite when he was a kid. The peak age range for Schistosoma infection is between 8 and 20, so if this man's case was typical, he may have been infected with it for at least 30 years, Blanton said. In some places in Africa where schistosomiasis is so common that about 90 percent of its residents become infected with it, seeing blood in the urine as a child may not be considered unusual, Blanton said. In fact, it's so common in some cultures that teenage boys who may see blood in their urine view it almost as a symbol of male menarche, or the start of menstruation, he said. Schistosomiasis is treated with the drug praziquantel, which helps to eliminate the parasite and prevent further calcification, Blanton said. But it may take a long time for the existing calcification to go away, he said. Follow Live Science @livescience, Facebook & Google+. Originally published on Live Science. Green Party candidate Manchan Magan has expressed satisfaction with his performance in the polls after he was eliminated from the race for a Dail seat in the Longford-Westmeath constituency following the eighth count on Sunday. Speaking to the Longford Leader the journalist-turned-politician said he promised himself not to sit on the sidelines in the lead-up to the General Election. I had no experience, no understanding of politics before I entered. I entered because this is one opportunity every four years to put forward new ideas. I thought: I can't sit through another election cycle without people raising the potential of us having the really rich, sustainable future, he explained. And I managed to get those ideas out there as much as I could because I had zero advertising. Mr Magan admitted his chances of being elected were remote but hoped the ideas he promoted would gain traction in the constituency and did not rule out running again. I did know the last Green Party candidate had 300 votes, so I knew there wasn't going to be a groundswell of thousands, he laughed. If I find that people are interested in engaging with new ways of using the land and using community in Longford-Westmeath, I probably would throw myself into it again. I can't say I enjoyed the campaign. It's a struggle it's a tough a tough thing to do but it's so enlightening, so rewarding. At the moment it looks like I have two per cent [of the vote] and, you know, that's not the worst at all. It would be nice if it was bigger, I suppose. Mr Magan, who has strong family links to Killashee in County Longford, said he wants strong representation for the county, and that Fine Gael failed to deliver this. My heart is with Longford; my people are from Longford over 200 years. What I want is strong representation for Longford. When international companies come, Longford is just outside Dublin, so we are this expansion zone for Dublin. What we need is international representation that will look confident and look proper, he said. Fine Gael has not done that in Longford up until now. Nature & Weather, Local News, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: February 29 2016 20,000 Cubic Yard of Sand Will be Used to Build Dune and Protect Communities of Fire Island Fire Island, NY - February 26th, 2016 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced a joint state-federal effort to address coastal erosion and improve coastal resilience on Fire Island in the Town of Islip. Through a collaborative effort, the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation have secured 20,000 cubic yards of sand from a sand stockpile at Robert Moses State Park to build a temporary dune in the area of immediate concern. This project will strengthen Fire Islands natural defense to protect its coastline and keep residents safer and better prepared for the next extreme weather event, Governor Cuomo said. I thank all levels of government for quickly responding to this problem and their help in building a stronger and more resilient community. This federal funded emergency project is critical to protecting the communities on both Fire Island and the South Shore from storm-induced flooding. The rapid response and coordination between federal, state and county agencies was first-rate and got the job done in a timely and effective way, said U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer. This is an important step. Not only must we continue to restore the damage that Sandy inflicted on Long Island but allocate funds and resources toward proactive measures that protect and limit the impact of any future storms, said Congressman Peter King. Superstorm Sandy devastated our coastal communities and businesses on Fire Island and across Long Island. The ever looming threat of severe weather and coastal storms on Long Island is a constant reminder of how important it is to quickly move forward with resiliency projects to ensure that we as a community are best prepared for the future. I will continue to work on the federal level in a bipartisan effort to secure the resources necessary to protect Long Island, said Congressman Lee Zeldin, member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee. Protecting coastal communities from the risk of flooding and erosion is a responsibility the state takes seriously, and I am proud to work with the US Army Corp of Engineers, State Parks and our local partners to address these needed repairs at Robins Rest, said Basil Seggos, Acting Commissioner of the DEC. While this interim step will help protect against a potential breach, I look forward to working with these partners as we advance long-term solutions to improve coastal resiliency through the Fire Island Inlet to Montauk Point coastal restoration plan. Governor Cuomos commitment and vision for building back a better, stronger and smarter New York in response to these fiercer storms is necessary in both the immediate and long-term protection of our coastal communities, said State Parks Commissioner Rose Harvey. This quick and collective coordination benefits and serves us all as we stand together to face the impact of climate change. Suffolk County and the National Parks Service reported significant beach erosion and storm wash-over in the area of the Robbins Rest Community. In response, state officials from the New York State Office of Emergency Management and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation quickly mobilized to assess the situation and determined the erosion threatens to cut off road transit to a number of Fire Island communities and exposes mainland Long Island communities to an increased risk of flooding if a modest Noreaster or coastal storm were to hit. The 20,000 cubic yards of sand secured by the Department of Environmental Conservation and the Office of Parks, Recreation and Historic Preservation will be used to build a temporary dune in the area of immediate concern. Under the US Army Corp of Engineers ongoing Fire Island Inlet to Moriches Inlet project, the Corps will load and transport the sand to the breach area at full federal expense. Suffolk County will also provide a bulldozer if the USACE does not, to move sand as directed at the Robbins Rest location. Collectively, this action will significantly reduce the risk of a potential breach and protect the communities of Fires Island. COL David Caldwell, commander, New York District said, "Working with the state and county, the Army Corps of Engineers is able to move forward with this emergency repair to address the significant erosion caused by recent storms at Robbins Rest. This also confirms the need for long-term solutions on Fire Island. This is another great example of how partnerships maintained at the federal, state and local levels help solve problems. We look forward to providing additional flood risk reduction measures for the community now and in the future as well." Senator Phil Boyle said, The Barrier Islands are our first line of defense in holding back the ocean and preventing the flooding and destruction of the mainland. It is critically important that all measures be taken to ensure that the ocean does not break through and I commend the Governor for his fast action in making this potentially dangerous issue a priority. Assemblyman Joseph Saladino said, "Our beaches, Fire Island, and marine environment represent the hallmark of Long Island bounty. As an Assemblymember who has consistently advocated for the environment, beaches and outdoor recreation, I appreciate the Governors efforts and commend his commitment to the public. This is an important step toward the full recovery of Super Storm Sandy by providing the financial resources and engineering staff that supports these projects. We underscore the importance of caring for Long Island gems and resources. Once again the Governor has responded to our calls for protecting our residents from future storms and high tide events. County Executive Steve Bellone said, We thank Governor Cuomo and the Army Corps of Engineers as well as our local partners for securing the required materials to address the recent breach at Robins Res t. This project highlights yet another example where collaborative efforts at the federal, state and local levels can expeditiously respond to an urgent need to protect our communities. Town of Islip Supervisor Angie Carpenter said, We are very grateful for the efforts of the Governor in addressing this severe erosion problem. This is a positive step forward in addressing the erosion caused by recent storms that have had a negative impact on Fire Island. This not only affects the residents of Fire Island, but also the people living on Long Island who are negatively impacted if there is a breach of our barrier beaches. I am pleased that state, federal and local officials have joined together to address the integrity of the dunes and the barrier which serves as the first line of defense for the mainland. Following Superstorm Sandy and additional coastal storms, coastal erosion along this stretch of Fire Island has increased, posing a significant threat to the communities along Fire Island and potential coastal flooding along mainland Long Island. The State along with the USACE are working quickly to advance the FIMI project, and planning for the Fire Island Inlet to Montauk Point resiliency project to further bolster Long Islands coastal defenses. Local News, Crime, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: February 29 2016 James Burke Admits to Assaulting Handcuffed Suspect in December 2012 and Orchestrating an Extensive Cover-up to Obstruct the Federal Civil Rights Investigation. Central Islip, NY - February 26th, 2016 - Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Central Islip, New York, James Burke, the former Chief of Department for the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), pleaded guilty to a civil rights violation and conspiracy to obstruct justice. The civil rights violation related to Burkes assault of a Smithtown man who had been arrested for breaking into Burkes SCPD-issued vehicle and stealing his property on December 14, 2012. Following that assault, over almost three years, Burke and other Suffolk County law enforcement authorities took actions to obstruct the federal civil rights investigation into the assault. Burke was arrested and arraigned on December 9, 2015, and he has been in federal custody since that date. The guilty plea was announced by Robert L. Capers, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Diego Rodriguez, Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI). The defendant violated his oath and responsibilities as a law enforcement officer by exacting personal vengeance, assaulting a handcuffed suspect, and abusing his authority as the highest ranking uniformed member of the Suffolk County Police Department. Despite the efforts of the defendant and his co-conspirators to obstruct the federal investigation, he has been brought to justice, stated United States Attorney Capers. Our investigation is ongoing, and we will seek to hold accountable anyone who violates anothers civil rights or attempts to obstruct justice. FBI Assistant Director-in-Charge Rodriguez stated, An honest government, trusted by the people, is imperative to protect our freedoms. For these reasons, combating public corruption is the top criminal priority of the FBI. In his guilty plea today, Burke has taken responsibility for his illegal conduct. This begins the restoration of the publics trust in the Suffolk County Police Departments ability to protect their Constitutional freedoms. According to the indictment, court filings, and statements during todays guilty plea proceeding, on December 14, 2012, New York State Probation Department and SCPD officers arrested probationer Christopher Loeb at his mothers home in Smithtown, New York, for a variety of probation violations. During the arrest and search of the Loeb residence, officers discovered a large cache of merchandise stolen from over a dozen vehicles, including an SCPD-issued SUV operated by Burke. Among the items taken from Burkes SUV was his gun belt, several magazines of ammunition, a box of cigars, a humidor, and a canvas bag that contained toiletries, clothing, and other items. Burke was permitted to enter the Loeb residence and retrieve the canvas bag and several other articles, even as the search was underway. He then drove to the SCPDs 4th Precinct in Smithtown where detectives had begun interrogating Loeb. Burke entered the interrogation room where Loeb was handcuffed and chained to an eyebolt fastened to the floor. Burke then punched and kicked Loeb in the head and body. Subsequently, Burke and others pressured the detectives who witnessed the assault to conceal the event. Those efforts continued even after the FBI and the U.S. Attorneys Office opened an investigation of the assault in 2013. In one instance, Burke summoned detectives under his command to SCPD headquarters in Yaphank, New York, to persuade the detectives to agree to a false version of events that would conceal the assault. In October 2013, one of those detectives testified falsely under oath in a state pretrial hearing in the Loeb prosecution, denying that Loeb had been assaulted. The guilty plea proceeding was held before United States District Judge Leonard D. Wexler. The governments case is being prosecuted by the Offices Long Island Criminal Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Lara Treinis Gatz and John J. Durham are in charge of the prosecution, assisted by EDNY Investigator William Hessle. Local News, Community, Charity & Cause, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: February 29 2016 On Saturday, February 20th, Suffolk County Legislator Kevin McCaffrey attended Sean David Hotellings Eagle Scout Court of Honor. The ceremony for this West Babylon native was held at the North Lindenhurst Fire Department. North Lindenhurst, NY - February 29th, 2016 - On Saturday, February 20th, Suffolk County Legislator Kevin McCaffrey (R-Lindenhurst) attended Sean David Hotellings (Troop 175) Eagle Scout Court of Honor. The ceremony for this West Babylon native was held at the North Lindenhurst Fire Department, and was heavily attended by Davids family, scouts of all ages, and elected officials or their representatives. In order to attain the rank of Eagle Scout, every candidate must satisfy a wide variety of requirements before each milestone along the path is reached. Perhaps the most significant and challenging requirement that a candidate has to tackle is the service project. This project is intended to be a lasting contribution to the community, and is planned and executed by means of the candidate applying the skills he acquired through his many years of Scouting. For his service project, Sean chose to restore a largely forgotten part of West Babylon History the Larsen Lane Cemetery. This particular cemetery had fallen into a sad state of disrepair over the years, despite the fact that it is the resting place for veterans from as far back as the Civil War and up to Vietnam. As a Boy Scout, steeped in reverence for his country, Sean found this situation to be simply unacceptable, thus his project began to materialize. After locating and coordinating various members of the community, Sean was able to secure both the necessary personnel and materials to begin the restoration project. After all was said and done, the landscaping was rejuvenated, in addition to having four cement benches thoughtfully placed, a flagpole installed with a beautiful border. Sean is a remarkable young man with a deep understanding of the sacrifices of those in this resting place, said McCaffrey. Through Seans hard work and perseverance, the contributions of these veterans will be remembered, and visitors can really contemplate our history and what it means to be an American. About BSA Troop 175 For those interested in learning more about the Boy Scouts in Suffolk County, they are strongly encouraged to visit: http://www.sccbsa.org/. To learn more about Troop 175 specifically, please visit their website. About Legislator McCaffrey Legislator McCaffrey represents Suffolk Countys 14th Legislative District which encompasses the Village of Lindenhurst, Babylon Village, the hamlets of West Babylon and North Lindenhurst, portions of Copiague, North Babylon, and Babylons barrier beach communities. Local News, Arts & Culture, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: February 29 2016 On Wednesday, March 9th, 2016, The Book Revue will be welcoming local author Michael Medico for a Book Signing and Q & A Session about his new book "The Sainted". Huntington, NY - February 29th, 2016 - On Wednesday, March 9th, 2016, The Book Revue will be welcoming local author Michael Medico for a Book Signing and Q & A Session about his new book "The Sainted", which was released toward the end of 2015. The event will be from 7 PM - 10 PM at the Book Revue, located at 313 New Uork Avenue, Huntington, NY 11743. Theres been a lot of buzz around the recent release of the novel, The Sainted by author Michael Medico. Articles on LongIsland.com, Huntington Patch, in Long Island Magazine and Response have helped expanding sales and increase interest. Interviews with Michael will be coming soon in TBR Newspapers and The Long Islander. Heres what some have said: Alicia Smock, Examiner.com another appealing part of The Sainted, aside from the plot, is the characters. Chris is an incredibly likeable character and readers will only want good things to come his way and for anything evil to leave him aloneOne character, though, Medico must be applauded for and that is Satan. He gave Satan the perfect personality: just the right amount of attitude and sassSatan is perhaps one of, if not the, hardest character to write in any genre and Medico nailed it on his first try. Author Michael Medico will be signing books at the Book Revue in Huntington on Wednesday, March 9th. When you are eight years old, raised in a close Italian family, and attending a Catholic grade school in the Bronx, the epic battle between what is good and evil is simply a part of what you learn in school. For Chris Pella however, these lessons come to life as author Michael Medico, takes the reader on Chris journey, from the moment his life was changed forever to his confrontation with the human embodiment of evil itself. John Gomez, Radio Talk Show Host, LI News Radio I find interesting the premisethe saints take on the role of Superheroesa fascinating book, this is the first of three. Chris has a secret. He can communicate with the Saints through vivid, sometimes frightening visions since childhood. It can happen in the blink of an eye that Chris is transported back in time where he learns from the men and women who would become blessed icons of the Catholic Church. The mystery unravels as characters, including Beth, a beautiful nurse, his Uncle Al, Suffolk County Chief of Detectives and Julian, the demonic presence enter into Chris life. "In The Sainted, the author takes the reader on a terror filled journey which ends in an epic showdown with Satan and his demon hoard. It is this horror that our hero is forced to confront and it is this evil that tests his resolve to fight for his very soul and the soul of someone he loves. We are very excited to represent Michael's book sale to iBooks, Brick Tower Press and J. Boylson & Company for publishing his book for film sale to a studio." - Alan Morell, Creative Management Partners. Addressing larger issues of faith and morality against the colorful backdrop of the Bronx, Huntington and Northport on Long Islands North Shore, Medico creates a world that is True Detective, meets Millions. His diverse characters and the haunting questions raised will remain with readers long after the story has ended and set an intriguing foundation for a series of more stories to come. About Author Michael Medico Michael Medico was born in New York City where he attended Power Memorial Academy. After graduation Mike joined the U.S. Navy and served stateside during the Viet Nam War. After being honorably discharged from the service, he attended Pace University and graduated with a degree in marketing and advertising. Michael founded an advertising agency and served as CEO for 35 years. He has written numerous articles published in various trade journals and has been a featured participant on many panel discussions and industry workshops. About Brick Tower Press John T. Colby Jr. is the founder and publisher of Manhattan based Brick Tower Press and J. Boylston & Company, Publishers. Brick Tower Press ranks in the top 100 United States independent book publishers while the J. Boylston & Company imprint ibooks was named "America's fastest growing small publisher" by Publishers Weekly in 2004. In addition to iBooks, J. Boylston & Company includes the children's imprint Milk & Cookies Press, and Byron Preiss Visual Publications a book packager with licensed books to Simon & Schuster, HarperCollins, Dutton, Scholastic, and Reader's Digest. Prior to Brick Tower Press and J. Boylston & Company, John worked for London-based Dorling Kindersley (DK), Barnes & Noble, Bertelsmann, and Doubleday & Company, Inc. John is a graduate of Syracuse University. About Creative Management Partners Alan Morell is CEO and Founder of Creative Management Partners. CMP is a business and talent management company that specializes in literary, TV, film, packaging commercial rights, event management and media relations. CMP has offices in Beverly Hills, New York, London and Toronto. Music, Movies & Entertainment, Local News, Crime, Press Releases By Long Island News & PR Published: February 29 2016 Suffolk County Police today arrested a man for firing a gun into the air during a fight involving several people in the rear parking lot of The Emporium nightclub early this morning. Huntington, NY - February 26th, 2016 - Suffolk County Police today arrested a man for firing a gun into the air during a fight involving several people in the rear parking lot of The Emporium nightclub early this morning. Police responded to a call of people fighting outside The Emporium after a performance by the group Bone Thugs-N-Harmony. Responding units heard gunshots while responding and found a large crowd dispersing from the area. No injuries were reported to police. A check of area hospitals was conducted with negative results. After an investigation, Fifth Squad detectives arrested Steward Howse of Cleveland, Ohio at approximately 4:35 p.m. Howse, an entertainer known as Stew Deez had performed at The Emporium last night before Bone Thugs-N-Harmony and is traveling with the group on a national tour. Howse, 33, was charged with Reckless Endangerment 2nd Degree and Criminal Possession of a Weapon 2nd Degree. He is scheduled to be arraigned at First District Court in Central Islip on February 27. A criminal charge is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Looking to stay up to date about all of the news stories and local headlines that are important to Long Islanders? We've rounded up the top coverage for all of the important topics from multiple sources around Long Island, so you can be sure you've got the most recent update on the top stories for Long Island. Have an idea for a news story? Email us at news@longisland.com Columnists Press Releases The Afghan military raided a Taliban prison in Helmand province and freed 35 people, including women and children. The Taliban jail is the third in Helmand to have been targeted by Afghan forces since December 2015. The presence of Taliban prisons highlights the deteriorating security situation in Helmand, where Afghan forces are losing ground to the jihadist group. The raid, which was executed on Feb. 26 likely by Commandos from Afghanistans counterterrorism unit, took place in an area between Nad Ali and Marjah districts, TOLONews reported. Afghan special forces are said to have captured seven Taliban prison guards and freed five women, 25 children and five men. No casualties were reported. Nad Ali is heavily contested by the Taliban, which controls most of the rural areas in the district. The Taliban is also besieging the town of Marjah, and controls most of that district. According to The Washington Post, 90 percent of Marjah is said to be Taliban controlled. Afghan forces raided two other prisons in Helmand since early December 2015. On Dec. 3, 2015, a combined Afghan and US force freed more than 40 prisoners comprised of Afghan Police, Afghan National Army and Afghan Border Police members from a Taliban jail in the district of Now Zad, US Forces Afghanistan reported at the time. On Jan. 2, Afghanistans counterterrorism force freed 59 prisoners from another Taliban prison in the district of Nahr-i-Sarraj. The presence of Taliban jails in a district is an ominous sign that security there has spiraled out of control. Eight weeks after Afghan forces raided the prison in Now Zad, Afghan forces abandoned their last outpost and ceded full control of the district to the Taliban. In addition, Afghan forces are struggling to maintain a foothold in the beleaguered districts of Nahr-i-Sarraj and Nad Ali. Security in Helmand has deteriorated as the Taliban has pressed its offensive to regain the ground lost there between 2009-2011. Of Helmands 14 districts, five are known to be controlled by the Taliban (Now Zad, Musa Qala, Baghran, Dishu, and Khanashin), and another six are heavily contested (Nahr-i-Sarraj, Kajaki, Nad Ali, Marjah, Garmsir, and Sangin). Of the remaining three districts, The Long War Journal believes two (Washir and Nawa-i-Barak) are contested, but the situation is unclear. Only Lashkar Gah, the district that hosts the provincial capital, has not seen significant Taliban activity. But Taliban forces based in Nahr-i-Sarraj and Nad Ali are just miles from the city. Afghan forces abandoned the districts of Now Zad and Musa Qala nine days ago. The military claimed it redeployed its forces to defend Lashkar Gah and the town of Gereshk in Nahr-i-Sarraj, however the move has ceded key ground to the Taliban. Correction: Marjah is a district separate from Nad Ali, and the town of Marjah is its district center. The article has been updated to reflect that. Bill Roggio is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Editor of FDD's Long War Journal. Are you a dedicated reader of FDD's Long War Journal? Has our research benefitted you or your team over the years? Support our independent reporting and analysis today by considering a one-time or monthly donation. Thanks for reading! You can make a tax-deductible donation here. Hamed Abderrahaman Ahmed. Source: El Mundo, Europa Press. Hamed Abderrahaman Ahmed, a former Guantanamo detainee, was arrested by Spanish police on Feb. 23 for allegedly leading a jihadist recruiting cell that was sending fighters to the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. Ahmed and three others were detained in the city of Ceuta, which borders Morocco on the North African coast. Spanish authorities and their Moroccan counterparts have launched a series of counterterrorism operations in Ceuta and elsewhere in recent weeks. They have targeted extremist networks supporting both the Islamic State and Al Nusrah Front, al Qaedas official branch in Syria. Spanish police said that Ahmeds cell not only recruited for the Islamic State, but was also willing to commit terrorist acts on Spanish soil. Ahmed received military and combat training in camps in Afghanistan under the authority of terrorist jihadist organizations, the police said in a statement, according to Agence France-Presse. The fact that this leader [Ahmed] was trained in handling weapons, explosives and in military tactics makes this cell particularly dangerous, the statement continued. Traveled through Iran to al Qaedas camps in Afghanistan Joint Task Force Guantanamo (JTF-GTMO), which oversees the detention facility in Cuba, concluded that Ahmed received training in an al Qaeda camp in 2001. In a leaked threat assessment, dated Aug. 30, 2003, JTF-GTMO also recommended that Ahmed be retained in the Department of Defenses custody. Just over five months later, on Feb. 13, 2004, he was transferred to Spain. According to the brief biography in JTF-GTMOs assessment, which appears to be largely based on Ahmeds own account while in custody, Ahmed and his brothers were selling drugs in the 1990s when he became involved in the Jamaat Tablighi and traveled to Morocco at the invitation of an extremist recruiter. Jamaat Tablighi is an Islamic proselytization group that JTF-GTMO found was frequently used as a cover for jihadists traveling around the globe. While in Morocco, Ahmed became interested in the jihad in Chechnya. He was allegedly recruited by a man named Naiz and the pair traveled to the United Kingdom (UK). Naiz paid for Ahmeds trip. After arriving in the UK in May 2001, according to the JTF-GTMO file, Ahmed started worshipping at the Nor mosque in London, supplementing the income he received from his brother by selling drugs at a disco where he worked. Naiz and Ahmed traveled to France in July 2001 and then onto Spain, where the two parted ways. Naiz gave the detainee$1000 USD and instructed him to travel to Afghanistan via Iran to being his military/terrorist training, JTF-GTMOs analysts found. Ahmed then departed for Afghanistan via Tehran, Iran in early August 2001. Dozens of Guantanamo detainees were found to have traveled through Iran en route to al Qaedas training camps in Afghanistan. JTF-GTMO included the following field note in its assessment for Ahmed: Travel through Iran is a known modus operandi for al Qaeda operatives to get into Afghanistan via a chain of al Qaeda safe houses and operatives. Indeed, Ahmed was transferred to Guantanamo, in part, because American officials wanted to question him about al Qaedas transit route through Iran. Ahmed was transported to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base, Cuba on 11 February 2002 because of his knowledge of information on the issue of illegal Iranian travel visas from an unidentified person in the Iranian Embassy in Madrid, Spain, and suspicion of being affiliated with al Qaeda, JTF-GTMOs analysts wrote. Ahmed claimed he only received training on AK-47s in Afghanistan, but JTF-GTMO suspected that he was hiding the true extent of the instruction he received. Ahmeds description of his training is fabricated in order to minimize his involvement and its assessed that he has had several layers of advanced weapons training to include the use of explosives, according to JTF-GTMOs assessment. Sometime after the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks, Ahmed was captured by Pakistani soldiers near the border with Afghanistan. Before being transferred to American custody, he was reportedly involved in an incident in which a number of Arab detainees hijacked a Pakistani bus and murdered the guards watching them. JTF-GTMOs analysts suspected that there was more to Ahmeds story. They assessed that he was recruited to complete advance schools, specializing in weapons, explosives, and tactics, so that he could return to Spain and became part of the European al Qaeda terrorist network. He was also indirectly linked to Imad Yarkas, who headed al Qaedas network in Spain prior to the Sept. 11, 2001 hijackings and may have even had foreknowledge of the kamikaze operation. Ahmed poses a high threat to the US, its interests and its allies, JTF-GTMO concluded. He remains dedicated to the cause of [j]ihad against the US. The European press dubbed Ahmed the Spanish Taliban after his story became widely known. He was convicted on terrorism-related charges after being transferred from Guantanamo to Spain in 2004, but the conviction was eventually overturned by the Spanish Supreme Court because of his time detained in legal limbo in Cuba. It is not clear how long Ahmed allegedly ran his recruiting cell in Ceuta. Spanish authorities have said that he targeted teenagers in the Spanish enclave. Ahmed and his comrades were also allegedly looking to acquire weapons and explosives to further their putative terror plot. Note: The spelling of al Qaeda in quotes from JTF-GTMOs threat assessment were changed throughout for consistency. Thomas Joscelyn is a Senior Fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies and the Senior Editor for FDD's Long War Journal. Are you a dedicated reader of FDD's Long War Journal? Has our research benefitted you or your team over the years? Support our independent reporting and analysis today by considering a one-time or monthly donation. Thanks for reading! You can make a tax-deductible donation here. Finnair and Helsinki Airport Present The Ultimate Runway Fashion Show For decades the fashion industry has been associated with the glamorous world of travel and on May 24, 2016 the fashion world will descend on Helsinki Airport to celebrate this Match Made in HEL in style."The combined glamour of the fashion and travel industry share a long history. Air travel has long played a key role in setting the pace of fashion trends across the world," says Johanna Jakala, Vice President, Brand, Marketing and Loyalty at Finnair. "Fashion connects and inspires people, and we see this on a daily basis as we connect Europe and Asia with our flights. With this fashion show, we want to celebrate the connections between Europe and Asia, and showcase the work of some of the hottest designers from these two continents.""Helsinki Airport is a key hub for Asia-Europe travel, and every day thousands of people transfer through the airport on their journey between these destinations. The airport, located along the shortest route between Asia and Europe, is a constant inspiration for us, and on May 24th fashion designers from both the West and East will meet here for this special runway show ", says Katja Siberg, Vice President, Marketing and Business Development at Finavia, the Finnish airport operator.The designers displaying their latest creations along the runway have been handpicked to represent some of the most interesting and inspiring trends emerging from the Asian and European fashion industries. The designers will be announced in March-April, and will be presented on the Match made in HEL campaign site at"Helsinki Airport presents a fascinating backdrop for the designers to showcase their work", says Tuomas Laitinen, Fashion Director of SSAW Magazine, who will be curating the fashion show. "I am excited to be a part of bringing some of the hottest names in fashion to Helsinki in May."Finnair and Helsinki Airport together offer the smoothest connections between Europe and Asia. Finnair flies to 17 Asian destinations and over 70 European destinations via Helsinki. Helsinki Airport has grown into a major transfer hub for Asia-Europe travel, the airport is designed for smooth and fast transfers. As Finnair expands its Asian traffic in turn Helsinki Airport will expand to support growing passenger flows. In summer 2016, Finnair will offer 77 weekly flights to Asia from Helsinki Airport.The Match Made in HEL campaign is a joint campaign by Finnair and Helsinki Airport, and targeted at raising awareness of Finnair and Helsinki Airport as the best partners for smooth and fast air connections between Asia and Europe. 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One-night-stay at the JW Marriott San Francisco Union Square $50 Bloomingdale's Gift Certificate Access to Insiders' Guide to Union Square Two gourmet power bars for power shopping VIP Shopping Experience at Bloomingdale's Welcome gift from Bloomingdale's including:- 15% off all-day savings certificate- Complimentary consultation with Dior beauty expert.- Complimentary delivery of packages to the hotel with minimum purchase of $250*Subject to availability. Please contact 415-856-5477 or Sarah.Roach@bloomingdales.com in advance to book your cosmetics consultation.Starting at $249 plus tax, the Fashionista Insider Shopping Package is available now through December 30, 2016. The exclusive package must be booked 72 hours in advance and is based on availability. Please visitto book this exceptional package. Apples refusal to help the FBI brute-force the iPhone 5c passcode of the San Bernardino shooter will most likely play out in the courtsthe first hearing is scheduled for March 22 in Riverside, California. But Congress has a role to play too. On Tuesday, Apple Senior Vice President and General Counsel Bruce Sewell will testify before the House Judiciary Committee, stressing that while Apple does respect and assist law enforcement, what the FBI wants this time simply goes too far. One of Apples strategies is to argue that Congress should pass legislation to cover cases like this, instead of using the more broad All Writs Act, which was first passed in 1789 and last updated in 1948. Apple thinks a more modern statute like the Communications for Assistance for Law Enforcement Act (CALEA) would be more appropriate, although the Department of Justice disagrees that its applicable here. Sewell isnt the only witness called to Congress on Tuesday. The Judiciary Committees hearing, titled The Encryption Tightrope: Balancing Americans Security And Privacy, will also feature testimony from FBI Director James Comey, Professor Susan Landau of Worcester Polytecnic Institute, and New York County District Attorney Cyrus Vance, Jr. who recently told Charlie Rose that hes asked Apple to unlock 175 iPhones, and if the government gets its way in San Bernardino, would absolutely push for the same thing in New York. The full text of Sewells opening remarks is below. The hearing is scheduled for 1pm Eastern, and will air live on C-SPAN 3. Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Its my pleasure to appear before you and the Committee today on behalf of Apple. We appreciate your invitation and the opportunity to be part of the discussion on this important issue which centers on the civil liberties at the foundation of our country. I want to repeat something we have said since the beginningthat the victims and families of the San Bernardino attacks have our deepest sympathies and we strongly agree that justice should be served. Apple has no sympathy for terrorists. We have the utmost respect for law enforcement and share their goal of creating a safer world. We have a team of dedicated professionals that are on call 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year to assist law enforcement. When the FBI came to us in the immediate aftermath of the San Bernardino attacks, we gave all the information we had related to their investigation. And we went beyond that by making Apple engineers available to advise them on a number of additional investigative options. But we now find ourselves at the center of an extraordinary circumstance. The FBI has asked a Court to order us to give them something we dont have. To create an operating system that does not existbecause it would be too dangerous. They are asking for a backdoor into the iPhonespecifically to build a software tool that can break the encryption system which protects personal information on every iPhone. As we have told themand as we have told the American publicbuilding that software tool would not affect just one iPhone. It would weaken the security for all of them. In fact, just last week Director Comey agreed that the FBI would likely use this precedent in other cases involving other phones. District Attorney Vance has also said he would absolutely plan to use this on over 175 phones. We can all agree this is not about access to just one iPhone. The FBI is asking Apple to weaken the security of our products. Hackers and cyber criminals could use this to wreak havoc on our privacy and personal safety. It would set a dangerous precedent for government intrusion on the privacy and safety of its citizens. Hundreds of millions of law-abiding people trust Apples products with the most intimate details of their daily livesphotos, private conversations, health data, financial accounts, and information about the users location as well as the location of their friends and families. Some of you might have an iPhone in your pocket right now, and if you think about it, theres probably more information stored on that iPhone than a thief could steal by breaking into your house. The only way we know to protect that data is through strong encryption. Every day, over a trillion transactions occur safely over the Internet as a result of encrypted communications. These range from online banking and credit card transactions to the exchange of healthcare records, ideas that will change the world for the better, and communications between loved ones. The U.S. government has spent tens of millions of dollars through the Open Technology Fund and other U.S. government programs to fund strong encryption. The Review Group on Intelligence and Communications Technology, convened by President Obama, urged the U.S. government to fully support and not in any way subvert, undermine, weaken, or make vulnerable generally available commercial software. Encryption is a good thing, a necessary thing. We have been using it in our products for over a decade. As attacks on our customers data become increasingly sophisticated, the tools we use to defend against them must get stronger too. Weakening encryption will only hurt consumers and other well-meaning users who rely on companies like Apple to protect their personal information. Todays hearing is titled Balancing Americans Security and Privacy. We believe we can, and we must, have both. Protecting our data with encryption and other methods preserves our privacy and it keeps people safe. The American people deserve an honest conversation around the important questions stemming from the FBIs current demand: Do we want to put a limit on the technology that protects our data, and therefore our privacy and our safety, in the face of increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks? Should the FBI be allowed to stop Apple, or any company, from offering the American people the safest and most secure product it can make? Should the FBI have the right to compel a company to produce a product it doesnt already make, to the FBIs exact specifications and for the FBIs use? We believe that each of these questions deserves a healthy discussion, and any decision should be made after a thoughtful and honest consideration of the facts. Most importantly, the decisions should be made by you and your colleagues as representatives of the people, rather than through a warrant request based on a 220-year-old statute. At Apple, we are ready to have this conversation. The feedback and support were hearing indicate to us that the American people are ready, too. We feel strongly that our customers, their families, their friends and their neighbors will be better protected from thieves and terrorists if we can offer the very best protections for their data. And at the same time, the freedoms and liberties we all cherish will be more secure. Thank you for your time. I look forward to answering your questions. Steady growth recorded by Maritime Cook Islands for 2015; Flag continues to thrive with more owners placing their faith in the registry Maritime Cook Islands (MCI), the leading ship registry, registered an 11% growth in the fleet last year with 201 new vessels, up from 184 in 2014. The fleet grew from 473 vessels in 2014 to 525 vessels at the end of December. In tonnage added terms in 2015, this is equal to 318,245 gross tons or a 21% increase. Our latest figures show that 149 Vessels were de-registered in 2015 and these were mainly yachts coming to the end of a three or five year registration.It also included 20 SOLAS cargo vessels some of which were sold and changed flag but most of which went to scrap. Just a handful of vessels changed flag under the same management and ownership as registered in the Cook Islands and this demonstrates that the vast majority of owners registering their vessels with MCI are happy with the service we provide. Glenn Armstrong commented: I would like to congratulate everyone connected to the flag for a year which has seen promising growth and expansion. We intend to continue to invest in the quality of our service and this kind of growth is encouraging for us. It shows there is a place in world shipping for a niche, personal service flag like ours which aspires to the highest standards while keeping a personal touch. He pointed out that growth came from across the board and from a broad selection of deputy registrars but that special mention should be made of the Deputy Registrar in Turkey Cem Ertem and his team as well as TY Cheng and Hilda Loein Singapore. Glenn added there had been no major collapse in tonnage despite the difficult trading conditions MCI faced back in 2014, the war in Ukraine and general instability in the Middle East and Black Sea regions. Regulators cracking down on national schemes which benefit some; more legal battles ahead with Luxembourg, Dutch tax appeals. EU state aid regulators are looking to Europe's top court to back their decision against a Spanish tax lease scheme for shipbuilders, one of several cases included in a crackdown on national tax programmes which benefit only certain companies. The decision by the European Commission on Monday to appeal to the Luxembourg-based Court of Justice of the European Union came after a lower court threw out the EU executive's finding in December last year. Judges said the Spanish scheme which involved financing ship construction through a structure with two intermediaries, and allowing shipping companies to get a 20-30 percent rebate on the price of vessels built by Spanish shipyards, was not illegal state aid as the Commission claimed. The EU competition enforcer said it would fight the ruling. "The Commission has decided to appeal the General Court's judgment annulling the Commission's 2013 decision declaring the Spanish tax lease system illegal under state aid rules," Commission spokesman Ricardo Cardoso said in an email. There is a total of 65 cases pending before the court against the EU finding. The Commission took action after some companies which lost out in shipbuilding contracts took their grievances to the regulator. The Commission faces more legal battles ahead after the Dutch government challenged its decision ordering it to recover up to 30 million euros ($32.67 million) from Starbucks and Luxembourg also did the same for a ruling related on Fiat Chrysler Automobiles. Apple and Amazon are also in the EU crosshairs over their tax deals with the Irish and Luxembourg authorities, respectively. Reporting by Foo Yun Chee Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting Marines with Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California, and Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton,California, conducted testing to become certified to operate a Mobile Aircraft Fire Training Device at MCAS Miramar, Feb. 22-24,2016. The training device is a mock aircraft used by ARFF to conduct live-fire training. It is computer-operated and the different functions are accessed via a centralized panel. The ARFF Marines can control the amount of fire and propane levels in the mock aircraft, from the panel. There are multiple locations throughout the device where they can turn the fires on and off from the control panel, burning them as long as they need too, said Greg Hudson, the MAFTD program manager. The device can produce fires internally and externally, giving the ARFF Marines the opportunity to train for any type of aircraft fire. On the first day of training before operating the MAFTD, the ARFF Marines must conduct testing to become qualified to use it. First, we went through the classroom portion, a PowerPoint breakdown of everything, said Lance Cpl. Col Hunsberger, a firefighter with ARFF. We learn how to set up the MAFTD, from the inside [of it] to the engines on the outside. On the second day when the Marines leave the classroom and get hands on with the MAFTD, they first learn to use the control panel of the device, located inside a truck that is at a safe distance from the MAFTD. The Marines first concern is safety. First, they turn the truck on and run safety tests. The Marines test all the fires in the different areas of the trainer and the propane levels. The MAFTD is equipped with automatic shutdowns, which turn the device off if it exceeds an unsafe temperature, according to Hunsberger. There are safety systems that we have to check every time before it can be deemed safe to use, said Lance Cpl. Brandon Werth, a firefighter with ARFF and a St. Augustine, Florida, native. There are Environmental Protection Agency regulations that we have to follow to be able to burn in specific areas and altitudes. When the MAFTD is being used for live-fire training, ARFF Marines respond as if an actual aircraft has caught on fire and get into full proper protective equipment and fight the flames, according to Hunsberger. On the third day of training, the ARFF Marines take a final test. If the Marines pass, they are officially certified to use the MAFTD to conduct training and to operate the device to teach other Marines. Having the certification is necessary for ARFF to continue to conduct this scenario-based training, according to Hudson. This training is very important because it is pertinent to our job, said Hunsberger. If an aircraft crashes or lands with fire, we need to know what to do. More Media Lt. Col. David Everly, junior military assistant to the Secretary of Defense, was recognized at the Black Engineer of the Year 11th Annual Stars and Stripes Dinner Feb. 19, 2016, at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown Grand Ballroom in Philadelphia. The Black Engineer Year of the Award and the Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics program conference took place February 18-20 and brought together youth from around the country who have excelled and established distinguished performance and accomplishment in a technical field. Im extremely humbled to be honored today, said Everly. The support of my family is always what has made me successful. The Marine Corps has allowed me to be a better father, husband and ultimately a better person. Lt. Gen. Ronald Bailey, the Deputy Commandant Plans, Polices and Operations at Headquarters Marine Corps, introduced Everly and highlighted his devotion and selfless commitment to all commands he has served with during more than 27 years as a Marine. If youre looking for excellence in military hands-on experience, look no further than Lt. Col. Dave Everly, said Bailey. Lt. Col. Everly epitomizes our values of courage, honor and commitment as a role model and a mentor. Everly said BEYA and the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) Program supports young men and women and gives them an opportunity to better grow their futures. BEYA allows the Marine Corps to come to an event that is centered around students who are interested in STEM, said Everly. The Marine Corps is dedicated to finding the next future Marines, who may be at this conference, who are dedicated to innovation and teamwork, seeing tomorrows problems and wanting to solve those problems. After a month of training at Exercise Iron Fist 2016, U.S. Marines, sailors, and Japanese soldiers concluded Iron Fist training with a scenario based, battalion-sized amphibious landing exercise, or PHIBLEX, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton on Feb. 24-27, 2016. PHIBLEX began with the insertion of reconnaissance and intelligence units ahead of the main-body landing, followed by an amphibious assault launched from the USS Somerset (LPD 25), airborne troop movements, and coordinated attacks from the beach deep into the training ranges of Camp Pendleton. Exercise Iron Fist is an annual exercise, which focuses on improving combined amphibious operation capabilities while simultaneously enhancing Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S Marine Corps ability to plan, communicate and conduct amphibious operations at the platoon, company and battalions levels. Over the course of its five-week training schedule, U.S. Marines and sailors, and their Japanese counterparts trained sidebyside to hone their skills in a broad spectrum of military tasks, to include: combat marksmanship, sniper tactics, military planning, fire support operations, amphibious reconnaissance, casualty evacuation procedures and amphibious operations. This [Exercise Iron Fist] is the largest bilateral exercise conducted by the I Marine Expeditionary Force, here in southern California, said Brig. Gen. David Coffman, deputy commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force at a press conference during PHIBLEX. Its a shining example of U.S. and Japanese alliance at work. During PHIBLEX, more than a dozen Amphibious Assault Vehicles transported Marines from 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, and Japanese soldiers from the Western Army Infantry Regiment, JGSDF, from ship-to-shore where they assaulted and secured a simulated contested beach before progressing to additional objectives further inland. Once on the beach, the Marines and Japanese soldiers established defensive perimeters and executed a series of spearheaded attacks on simulated combat towns using many of the skillsets they had worked on in the previous month of Iron Fist training. Since 2006, this bilateral exercise has showcased the partnership between the U.S. and Japan, and the dedication to the security treaty between the two countries. For more than 55 years, the U.S. and Japan have been security treaty allies, said Coffman. Our governments have pledged to strengthen the bond of peace and friendship between our two nations and to uphold the principles of democracy, liberty and the rule of law. This years Iron Fist saw the addition of a Japanese higher headquarters that partnered with the 11th MEUs command element and provided command and control for the two forces. The bilateral training with the U.S. Marine Corps for Iron Fist has directly allowed us to observe and learn the Marine Corps planning and operations skills, said Maj. Gen. Shinichi Aoki, deputy chief of staff (operations), Western Army, JGSDF. The training environment is great here and helped to promote a great opportunity to build our capabilities and practice them with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and I Marine Expeditionary Force. Training side-by-side allows both U.S. Marines and JSGDF soldiers to learn about each other, work through communication issues and move around the in same battlespace. By working closely with the JGSDF, U.S. forces have a familiar friend ready to respond quickly and effectively to crises that may occur in the Pacific Region. The Japan-U.S. alliance can help with counter-terrorism, counter-piracy, peacekeeping, capacity building, ballistic missile defense, and humanitarian assistance/disaster relief stated Coffman. This training is a testament to the discipline and spirit of the fine warriors youll see here today and very beneficial to both services as the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force develops their Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, said Coffman. As the U.S. Marine Corps continues to conduct exercises with the JGSDF, their work here at Exercise Iron Fist 2016 paves the way for future coalition success as an expeditionary force in readiness. More Media U.S. Marines with 2nd Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade and Norwegian forces launched Stinger missiles Feb. 24 and 25, 2016, at rland, Norway. The Norwegians are helping the Marines with range safety and host-nation support. We are supporting with everything from security on site, transportation, logistics and accommodation, said Norwegian Air Force Maj. Michael Bottenvik-Hartmann, the G-bad officer of the 138 Air Wing staff and range safety officer for the training. The Marines were firing the missiles at remote controlled aircraft piloted by Norwegian service members. Marine Cpl. Justin T. Heslep, a Low Altitude Air Defense Gunner with the unit, Battalion, 2nd Marine Expeditionary Brigade, talked about the partnership with the Norwegians and the interoperability the two units had throughout the live-fire. In order to fire the Stinger missile there are a few steps, but it all comes down to you being able to find the target and firing the system, said Heslep. The Marines shot down nine out of the ten R.C. planes launched during the live-fire. Exercises like this are important for future cooperation and Cold Response itself, said Bottenvik-Hartman. It helps us familiarize and integrate in a better way. The live-fire exercise was held in preparation for Exercise Cold Response 16, a joint exercise comprised of 12 NATO allies and partnered nations and approximately 16,000 troops. Throughout the preparation for the exercise, U.S. Marines and Norwegian service members have worked side-by-side to include multiple live-fire ranges, cold-weather survival training and driving courses. Cold Response will kick off in March and is designed to help bolster transnational relations while enhancing the participating countries abilities to respond to global crises. More Media Military Working Dog handlers often describe the bond between themselves and their dogs as unbreakable and everlasting. Their dogs are more than just their best friends; they are their brothers, an extension of themselves, comrades in arms. For the family of fallen Marine Sgt. Joshua Ashley, adopting MWD Sirius into their family was like reuniting with a part of their son. 2nd Law Enforcement Battalion retired MWD Sirius to the family of his former handler, in what is known as a passing of the leash ceremony, at the Ashley Kennels at Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, Feb. 26. Sgt. Ashley was killed in 2012 while he and Sirius were on patrol in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. In 2012, Sgt. Ashley was leading a patrol attached to a [Marine Special Operations Command] team out of Zombalay Village in the Helmand Valley, said Sgt. Frederick Roethler, a friend of Sgt. Ashleys who was deployed with him when he died. Sgt. Ashley was doing his job clearing the route. He and Sirius were on point when Sgt. Ashley hit an [improvised explosive device]. Luckily, Sirius wasnt hit and was okay. The biggest thing that I will take away is that Sgt. Ashley did his job and everyone else came home alive but, unfortunately, he wasnt one of those Marines that came home alive. He gave all and thats all we can ever ask for. Ashleys friends and family describe him as a protector and as the type of person who always looked out for others and took them under his wing. His mother, Tammie Ashley, remembers him as the fun-loving life of the party. Josh, from the day he was born, was happy-go-lucky, said Tammie. He was the popular kid in school, he was the team captain. Sirius continued to serve in the Marine Corps after OEF. Roethler considered it a great honor to take over as Siriuss handler and was glad that working alongside Sirius made him feel closer to his fallen friend. When it came time for Sirius to retire, Roethler and 2nd LEB agreed that there would be no better home for Sirius than with the Ashley family. He told me the last night before we lost him that he wanted to adopt Sirius and that he wanted me to take him until he was able to have him, said Tammie. So, ever since he passed away, we have always wanted to get him. Ashleys family came to Camp Lejeune from their hometown of Rancho Cucamonga, Calif. to attend Siriuss retirement ceremony and bring him home. I think for Sgt. Ashleys family to adopt Military Working Dog Sirius brings them a lot more closure, said Lt. Col. David Hyman, the commanding officer of 2nd LEB. As a gold star family, losing a loved one overseas in combat is a pretty tragic event and it has been several years now that they have continued to deal with that loss. Bringing Sirius back to them is almost like bringing back Sgt. Ashley. Those who worked with them could not have been happier to see Sirius return to Ashleys family. Sgt. Ashley and Sirius are one and the same person, and that family needs to be brought together with Sirius, said Roethler. Its amazing to see it finally happening and his family is able to have a little bit more closure and they get to have something else in their lives that will get to remind them every day of everything that they loved about Josh. And for Ashleys family, they get to keep the little part of their son and brother closer to their hearts. It means that we get a part of Josh, said Tammie. My son was never able to have children. He always wanted children and I kind of look [at Sirius as] his child. So my sons baby is coming home to me. Thats what [Sirius] is to me. He is going to be one of the family. More Media Tory Elite Risk British Civil War By Stating Intentions to IGNORE BrExit LEAVE EU Referendum Result A string of senior tories have been making insidious statements declaring that a vote by the British people to LEAVE in the forthcoming EU Referendum does not necessarily mean that the Tory elite would take Britain out of the EU, instead statements have been made that it would be just used as a bargaining chip in future negotiations ahead of a SECOND referendum, and what if Britain votes to LEAVE again, will there be a third, fourth, fifth until the Tory elite get the result they want? The Tory elite such as the former Tory Leader, Lord Howard states that LEAVE does not mean LEAVE but a renegotiation ahead of a second referendum. Other Tory elite have made similar statements, even including the LEAVE camps chief cheerleader Boris Johnson, though subsequently Boris has been busy backtracking on his statement. The Tory elite are playing a very, very dangerous game, one of business as usual and treating the EU Referendum as a case of being just another general election-esk farce where the 'dumb' masses are taken for granted to vote for either Labour or Conservative elites. Instead the EU Referendum is the British peoples first chance of a REAL election in over 40 years! A choice between a vote for either the establishment REMAIN or against the establishment to LEAVE. The dangers are that if the Tory elite following a LEAVE vote ignore the will of the British people then they would literally sow the seeds of a civil war, one which whilst completely unimaginable today, nevertheless as countless other nations such as Ukraine and Syria illustrate that if the elite ignore the will of the people then that tends to set in chain a series of events where over months protests turn into demonstrations turn into civil unrest that turns into violent demonstrations that turn into civil war! Whilst REMAIN camp elite have been busy in attempting to frighten the British people into voting for the status quo with a whole barrage of FEAR statements warning of economic collapse and worse, statements ignorant of Britain's standing in the world as though they were living in Somalia rather than Great Britain. Ian Duncan Smith talking on the BBC most aptly responded to the REMAIN fear campaign - Britain is a phenomenal country, the fifth largest in the world, it has stood alone and fought for freedom, it has traded, it has been a global trader, it can yet again be a global trader, why would we have such a low opinion of the British people that we go and talk about leaping into the dark, we talk about profound shocks we talk about it not being capable, that were too small. EU Referendum And where the EU Referendum is concerned then my opinion remains that this is Britain's VERY LAST chance to vote for FREEDOM from an emerging european superstate as the following two recent videos illustrate why- https://youtu.be/-oYS6X-63cU And this video covers the key points of David Cameron's failures to negotiate anything of value that in large part amounted to nothing more than a smoke and mirrors exercise. https://youtu.be/MF3QLhoxkwQ And why there always is a price to pay for freedom - 03 Feb 2016 - David Chamberlain Cameron, Britain's Last Chance for Freedom From Emerging European Super State Britain's Last Chance to Gain Freedom from Emerging European Super State What most pundits fail to recognise or lack experience of is trend and momentum both of which for the past 40 years have been moving in one direction that for the emergence of a highly centralised European super state that the financial crisis and subsequent economic depression of southern europe is accelerating the trend towards. So whilst it is too late for the euro-zone members who for better or worse are locked into a death embrace that has all but nullified democracy for most of the euro-zone states as the elections in Greece, Spain and Italy have clearly demonstrated the lack for even radical governments such as Syriza to do anything other than obey their German paymasters who control the euro currency and can within a couple of weeks bring fellow euro-zone members to the brink of collapse as was repeatedly demonstrated by Greece last year. Thus, for Britain the saving grace of not being in the euro-zone offers the UK a unique final opportunity to make the choice of either FREEDOM or become another satellite state revolving around a German centre that will increasingly dictate terms and conditions. Therefore, given that there would probably not be another referendum for at least 20 years, then this really is Britain's VERY LAST CHANCE. There WON'T be another opportunity because with each passing year the price for a BREXIT increases, and we are not that far off from the point of no return when an exit would result in an economic collapse, much of the situation the euro-zone members have been since they signed up to scrap their currencies and join the Euro-zone. Of course both the LEAVE and the REMAIN camps put out a lot of propaganda and spin on the others consequences. For LEAVE it's a case of everything smelling of roses in a Britain that has been freed from increasing European bureaucracy and interference, that would be in full control of Britain's borders. Whilst the REMAIN camp paints a picture of FEAR, of economic and financial catastrophe coupled with punitive terms for exit that would seek to punish Britain for daring to exit the euro-zone, so much for so-called european unity built on common purpose and friendship instead the European Union is increasingly a club of FEAR and PARALYSIS. The Price for Freedom The truth is that a BREXIT WILL BE ECONOMICALLY PAINFUL despite all of the benefits of being outside of the E.U. The cost of BrExit will be anywhere from 2% to as high as 5% of GDP if the euro-zone is determined to make an example of Britain to act as a warning to others by raising punitive tariffs on trade. However remember that attaining FREEDOM ALWAYS carry's a PRICE, in which respect even the worst case scenario for a 5% loss of GDP in the grand scheme of things does not compare against the infinitely greater price the people of Britain paid for their freedom in both past World Wars and so it is now THIS generations turn to pay a price for the freedom of future generations. What the people of Britain need to fully understand is that this really is their VERY LAST CHANCE for Freedom! The bottom line is that given the immigration crisis then the EU may implode even before Britain votes to LEAVE. Ensure you are subscribed to my always free newsletter (only requirement is an email address) for the following forthcoming analysis - US Interest Rates 2016 US Dollar Trend Forecast Stock Market Trend Forecast 2016 US House Prices Forecast 2016 and Beyond Gold and Silver Price Forecast 2016 By Nadeem Walayat http://www.marketoracle.co.uk Copyright 2005-2016 Marketoracle.co.uk (Market Oracle Ltd). All rights reserved. Nadeem Walayat has over 25 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. First They Came For The iPhones... The FBI tells us that its demand for a back door into the iPhone is all about fighting terrorism, and that it is essential to break in just this one time to find out more about the San Bernardino attack last December. But the truth is they had long sought a way to break Apple's iPhone encryption and, like 9/11 and the PATRTIOT Act, a mass murder provided just the pretext needed. After all, they say, if we are going to be protected from terrorism we have to give up a little of our privacy and liberty. Never mind that government spying on us has not prevented one terrorist attack. Apple has so far stood up to a federal government's demand that it force its employees to write a computer program to break into its own product. No doubt Apple CEO Tim Cook understands the damage it would do to his company for the world to know that the US government has a key to supposedly secure iPhones. But the principles at stake are even higher. We have a fundamental right to privacy. We have a fundamental right to go about our daily life without the threat of government surveillance of our activities. We are not East Germany. Let's not forget that this new, more secure iPhone was developed partly in response to Ed Snowden's revelations that the federal government was illegally spying on us. The federal government was caught breaking the law but instead of ending its illegal spying is demanding that private companies make it easier for it to continue. Last week we also learned that Congress is planning to join the fight against Apple -- and us. Members are rushing to set up yet another governmental commission to study how our privacy can be violated for false promises of security. Of course they won't put it that way, but we can be sure that will be the result. Some in Congress are seeking to pass legislation regulating how companies can or cannot encrypt their products. This will suppress the development of new technology and will have a chilling effect on our right to be protected from an intrusive government. Any legislation Congress writes limiting encryption will likely be unconstitutional, but unfortunately Congress seldom heeds the Constitution anyway. When FBI Director James Comey demanded a back door into the San Bernardino shooter's iPhone, he promised that it was only for this one, extraordinary situation. "The San Bernardino litigation isn't about trying to set a precedent or send any kind of message," he said in a statement last week. Testifying before Congress just days later, however, he quickly changed course, telling the Members of the House Intelligence Committee that the court order and Apple's appeals, "will be instructive for other courts." Does anyone really believe this will not be considered a precedent-setting case? Does anyone really believe the government will not use this technology again and again, with lower and lower thresholds? According to press reports, Manhattan district attorney Cyrus Vance, Jr. has 175 iPhones with passcodes that the City of New York wants to access. We can be sure that is only the beginning. We should support Apple's refusal to bow to the FBI's dangerous demands, and we should join forces to defend of our precious liberties without compromise. If the people lead, the leaders will follow. Dr. Ron Paul Project Freedom Congressman Ron Paul of Texas enjoys a national reputation as the premier advocate for liberty in politics today. Dr. Paul is the leading spokesman in Washington for limited constitutional government, low taxes, free markets, and a return to sound monetary policies based on commodity-backed currency. He is known among both his colleagues in Congress and his constituents for his consistent voting record in the House of Representatives: Dr. Paul never votes for legislation unless the proposed measure is expressly authorized by the Constitution. In the words of former Treasury Secretary William Simon, Dr. Paul is the "one exception to the Gang of 535" on Capitol Hill. Dr. Ron Paul Archive 2005-2019 http://www.MarketOracle.co.uk - The Market Oracle is a FREE Daily Financial Markets Analysis & Forecasting online publication. TODAYS WORD is invincible (in-vin-suh-buhl). Example: (1.) The teenager jumped off the building because he thought he was invincible and unable to get hurt; (2.) Because the drug dealer was extremely arrogant, he thought he was invincible from prosecution. SUNDAYS WORD was abhorrent (ab-hor-uhnt). Definition: causing or deserving strong dislike or hatred; strongly opposed; not agreeable; being so repugnant as to stir up Examples: (1.) She finds violence in films abhorrent; (2.) He considers it abhorrent the way she keeps her dogs penned up all the time. The Figsboro Ruritan Club Ladies Auxiliary occasionally cooks up a Sunday dinner, much to the pleasure of the community. The buffet lunch will be held from noon to 2 p.m. Sunday, March 6, and will include fried chicken, pork loin, and lots of vegetables and desserts. The meal will cost $9 for adults, $4.50 for children aged 6-12, and will be free for children younger than six. Take-out will be available. Two prescription drug abuse seminars, presented by Piedmont Community Services, Drug-Free MHC and FRESH (Focus on Response and Education to Stay Healthy) Coalition of Franklin County, are rescheduled for Wednesday, March 9. The sponsors are Drug-Free MHC and the Harvest Foundation. Community and coalition members are invited to a seminar hosted by Fred Wells Brason II from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at New College Institute. Lunch will be provided. Brason will share information about Project Lazarus, a program in Wilkes County, N.C., that has decreased the drug poisoning mortality rate by 69 percent in four years. He has co-chaired the expert committee for the formation of the SAMHSA (Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration) Overdose Toolkit, and serves as president and CEO of Project Lazarus. Health care providers are invited to a training seminar on March 9 from 5:30-8:30 p.m. at Chatmoss Country Club. Dinner will be provided. The seminar will focus on evidence-based methods for health care professionals to reduce harm and overdose from prescription medications. The event also will highlight the use of naloxone, an opioid overdose reversal medication. Dr. Anthony Dragovich and Brason will lead the seminar. Two continuing medical education (CME) hours will be issued for this training. The seminars were canceled in January due to inclement weather. For more information or to reserve a spot, call Bonnie Favero at (276) 632-4037, Mary-Kate Dillon, (276) 352-8052, or Regina Clark, (540) 493-6875. The future of Missoula and UM http://www.umt.edu/ are inseparable. "To be a great city, you must have a great university." I absolutely believe this to be true, and also this: We do have a great city, and we do have a great university. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that both Missoula and the University of Montana continue to prosper and grow. JAMES GRUNKE for the Missoulian Full Story: http://missoulian.com/business/montana-inbusiness/columns/james-grunke-um-declining-enrollment-not-just-a-campus-issue/article_8b0a7095-b521-520b-bcbb-c4590199c320.html UCLG Africa, who represents and defends the interests of cities and local governments across Africa on the world stage, marked the inauguration of its new North Africa Regional Office where it held its first statutory meeting and 20th session of the Executive Committee, at the invitation of the Ministry of Local Development of the Arab Republic of Egypt, between June 17-20, 2019 at the Conrad Hotel in Cairo, Egypt. Within the framework of this UCLG Africa statutory meeting an international conference was also organized under the High Patronage of the President of the Arab Republic of Egypt, His Excellency Mr. Abdel Fattah al-Sissi, on the theme: African Cities: Engines of Sustainable Development in collaboration with Ministry of Local Development of Egypt, UN Habitat, and the European Union. This Conference was officially opened by the Prime Minister of Egypt, Dr. Mostafa Madbouli, and was attended by a large number of Ministers from the Government of Egypt including members of the Bureau of the Specialized Technical Committee of the African Union (STC 8), comprising of African Ministers of Public Service, Urban Development and Housing, Decentralization and Local Governments; members of the Executive Committee of UCLG. Discussions during the conference highlighted the challenges and opportunities faced by African cities, ways to increase their efficiency, and how to optimize resources for the achievement of sustainable development in its three dimensions: economic, social and environmental. In the closing remarks by H.E. Major General Mahmoud Shaarawi Minister of Local Development, Arab Republic of Egypt he stated I would like to emphasize that we intend to turn this into an annual conference hosted by Cairo in order to follow up on recommendations to encourage pan-African dialogue that enhances the integration and cooperation amongst African countries in achieving comprehensive local development that meets the aspirations of its communities. The statutory meeting was officially opened by General Mahmoud Shaarawy, Minister of Local Development of Egypt, in the presence of General Khaled Abdel Aal, Governor of the Governorate of Cairo, and Mr. Mohamed Boudra, Vice-President of UCLG Africa for the North Africa region. At the opening of this 20th session of the Executive Committee of UCLG Africa, the members were also warmly welcomed by the newly elected Mayor of Libreville, Mr. Leandre Nzue in his capacity as the new President of UCLG Africa for the period 2019-2021. The objective of the statutory meeting was to introduce the new President of UCLG Africa Mr. Leandre Nzue, newly elected Mayor of Liberville, after former UCLG Africa President and Mayor of Liberville Mrs Rose Christiane Ossouka Raponda was appointed Minister of the Government of Gabon; and to appoint a new President of the Network for Locally Elected Women of Africa, REFELA, Mrs. Dao Macoura, Mayor of Foumbolo in Cote dIvoire after the Ministerial appointment of former REFELA President and Mayor of Bangange, Mrs. Celestine KETCHA, as Minister of Housing and Urban Development for the Republic of Cameroon. Strategic priorities for the organization in 2019, were also discussed including arrangements for Africities 2021 to be hosted by Kisumu County in Kenya; the establishment of the Africa Territorial Agency, a financial institution designed to raise funds on the financial markets to direct them towards investments within African cities and territories; the African Capitals of Culture program, which will have its first celebration in Marrakesh in 2020/2021; and finally the close collaboration with the Door of Our Return initiative, launched by the Afro-Descendants from the USA in celebration of the Year of Return in 2019 marking 400 years since the first documented group of Africans were brought through the transatlantic slave trade to the Americas in 1619. Key leaders, representing clergy, local governments, cities, business, diplomats and other community stakeholders are working together to return to Africa between 11&12 November and 25&26 November 2019 to key countries in West Africa to reconnect and explore investment opportunities and UCLG Africa will work closely with them to connect them to cities and local government leaders in Senegal, Ghana, and Nigeria. Partager et informez vous aussi...... 0 shares Share Tweet LinkedIn Articles similaires Chicken will be the best-positioned protein due to its low price position in times of pressure on consumer spending power but rises in production costs and the long-term impact of COVID-19 threaten to disrupt the sector, according to Rabobank. by Thom Forbes @tforbes, February 29, 2016 In a coals-to-Newcastle play, Howard Schultz is finally entering the marketplace in Italy after having exported his Seattle coffeehouse concept to 70 other countries and serving more than 90 million people a week worldwide. It is partnering with Italian company Percassi to open its first outlet in Milan next year; they then plan to expand to other cities across Italy. There are very few markets and stores that Im as intimately involved in as this, the Starbucks chairman and CEO tells the New York Times Jim Yardley in an interview after the announcement during Fashion Week in Milan. Were going to come here with great humility, he added, echoing the main theme of an extended press release that tells the entire creation story. advertisement advertisement Everything weve done to date sits on the foundation of wonderful experiences that many of us have had in Italy, Schultz says about a trip to a trade show in Milan in 1983 when he was the marketing director of Starbucks, which then sold whole-bean coffee from a handful of stores in Seattle. That journey has long figured in Starbucks mythology, writes the Seattle Times Janet I. Tu, with Shultz saying that his vision for the company began then and there. Starbucks carefully couched its announcement of the long-awaited move in a way that showed it was aware it was entering a market with strong convictions sometimes described as bordering on the religious about coffee, writes CNBCs Leslie Shaffer. Or, as Fortunes Phil Wahba puts it (after pointing out earlier that Starbucks now operates in other markets known for coffee snobbishness, notably France): Seemingly mindful of the fierce coffee chauvinism of Italians and aware of the risk of being seen as an ugly American company coming in and imposing its ways, Schultz emphasized that the store will show deference to Italians and their coffee culture. Starbucks Italian partner, The Percassi Group, is a retail and real estate developer, and it will own and operate the stores under a licensing agreement. It is based in Bergam, near Milan, and owns cosmetics chain Kiko. It has a franchising deal in Italy with U.S. lingerie chain Victoria's Secret, Reuters Caroline Humer reports. It also partnered with Benetton for 30 years, brought Zara to the Italian market and has worked with a string of American brands including Nike, Ralph Lauren and Tommy Hilfiger, reports the Financial Times Lindsay Whipp Antonio Percassi, its president, echoed the key talking point of the day, saying: We know that we are going to face a unique challenge with the opening of the first Starbucks store in Italy, the country of coffee, and we are confident that Italian people are ready to live the Starbucks experience, as already occurs in many other markets, Rhian Lubin reports for The Mirror. Dominos Pizza is another American company that is attempting to bring an American interpretation of classic Italian fare to the market, the FTs Whipp points out. As with Starbucks, Dominos emphasized that its pizzas would be customized to fit with Italian sensibilities, with locally sourced ingredients and promising ultimately a local pizza menu. According to the Starbucks press release, which contains a blazer-and-chinos clad, slightly-out-of-focus snapshot of Schultz standing in front of a colonnaded building way back in 1983, he found a full-sensory experience greeted customers who stepped through the doorways of Milan coffee houses. Italian opera played as baristas ground coffee, steamed milk and pulled espresso shots in graceful, powerful motions as if they were conducting an orchestra. He noticed the baristas were celebrated professionals who seemed to know each customer they served. Another media asset shows a more-refined Schultz which is what a billion or three of personal assets will do for you with hands clasped serenely at his waist, standing in the center of Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, one of the world's oldest shopping malls, reportedly after having made the announcement yesterday. One thing thats undeniable: Shultz and the Starbucks media relations team know how to grind out an announcement on a slow-news Sunday (Oscars excluded) with the punch of a perfectly brewed double-shot espresso. McCormack is editor and publisher of Portland's Tin House magazine and books and has published other local titles like Oregon Magazine, Oregon Business and Travel Oregon. Last week, his son Noah McCormack announced via Twitter that McCormack had bought the 102-year-old New Republic. McCormack has hired Hamilton Fish, a former publisher of The Nation and The Washington Spectator, to take over as publisher from Hughes. Noah also announced on Twitter that he would be moving to New York to take on a new, unspecified role working under Fish at The New Republic. He will still work at The Baffler, a left-wing magazine that he became publisher of in 2015. advertisement advertisement Hughes stated that McCormack's and Fish's "backgrounds in journalism and progressive politics" made them "uniquely qualified to lead TNR. The deal price has not been disclosed. McCormack said in a statement that he intends to continue the tradition of remaining true to [TNRs] founding principles as the organ of a modernized liberalism and then-dominant Progressive Movement. The liberal political magazine has had a rough couple of years under Hughes leadership. Hughes wanted to transition the magazine into a digitally-focused media operation but he had difficulty transforming the old and traditional publication. Hughes reportedly invested more than $20 million to transform the publication but his efforts caused many longtime writers and editors to leave in 2014. The magazine cut the number of issues in half to 10 a year and moved its headquarters from its home of Washington D.C. to New York. As for McCormack's political background, he was Oregon's largest Democratic party donor as well as the state's largest overall political donor in 2012, having given $1.5 million to candidates. by Laurie Sullivan @lauriesullivan, February 29, 2016 Heading into Super Tuesday, Microsoft Bing now shows voters a detailed breakdown of search volume for each candidate based on age, state, and gender to help voters better understand the landscape for Republican and Democratic hopefuls. With Search Wave, voters now have the ability to search on Bing, using the data to become their own analyst by tracking insights on each candidate in real-time per state. The analysis tool, powered by Bing Predicts, uses anonymized and aggregate data and does not obtain or use any personal information in its reports. It measures volume, not sentiment, which counts as much as being popular. Being controversial or provocative may result in higher search volume. Bing also released a new set of predictions for Super Tuesday, predicting outcomes for the 11 Primaries and Caucuses held for Democrats and Republicans. advertisement advertisement Bing predicts Donald Trump to win almost all the Republican primaries and caucuses held on Tuesday. Ted Cruz is expected to win his home state of Texas. Hillary Clinton is predicted to win 10 out of 11 states, with the exception of Vermont, Bernie Sanders' home state, which he is predicted to win. Bing predicts that Clinton will win Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia with more than 60% of the votes. She's expected to win Colorado, Massachusetts and Minnesota by a smaller margin, three states that showed Sanders to take until a couple of days ago. The machine-learned predictive models use data from polls, prediction markets, and anonymized and aggregated search-engine queries plus social media posts to forecast the popular vote in each state, "rather than the candidate the delegates will eventually vote at the partys national convention," per Bing. Bing touts that in February it correctly predicted seven out of eight party primaries. For the Democratic Party Bing Predicts forecasted a victory for Clinton in Iowa and in Nevada, plus a win for Sanders in New Hampshire. For the GOP, Bing predicted Trump to win New Hampshire and South Carolina, but missed Cruzs victory in Iowa. by Erik Sass @eriksass1, February 29, 2016 Time Out is pivoting from its traditional business model as an events guide and directory to a new strategy centering on content and commerce. The brand is undergoing a makeover as part of the transition, with a new look set to debut on March 1, the publisher announced. Created by Time Out in collaboration with adam&eveDDB, a creative agency, the redesign includes new City-specific logos and mastheads for all the publishers content, including magazines, mobile, social, Web, advertising, and live events. The new look coincides with an updated tag line, Discover/Book/Share, highlighting the convenience offered by the brands commerce offerings. Users can turn to Time Out for a variety of planning functions, including booking a table, buying tickets, accessing special offers, and reviewing, rating and sharing the experience via social media afterwards. advertisement advertisement The new look follows a number of major strategic changes at the global publisher, which has editions in 107 cities in 39 countries around the world. Last year, Time Out New York announced that it was shifting to free distribution, as it also more than doubled its circulation to 305,000 copies with a weekly publication schedule. The new model relies partly on an aggressive distribution strategy, including street teams who pass out copies, along with free distribution via lifestyle venues, including nightlife spots, gyms and theaters. TONY also begin offering advertisers more integrated marketing options, in part by shifting the magazines directory listings to the Web site to create more room for ads around editorial features. This repositioning followed a similar revamp for Time Out's London counterpart in 2012. Time Out and its global counterparts were acquired by Oakley Capital in 2011. Most of these editions are actually co-owned by Oakley with other investors. Every mammal on this planet starts in the same way: a sperm encounters an egg and fuses with it. This process is familiar to every eighth grade biology student, and pictures of the event can be found in every biology text book. However, despite this ubiquity, the detailed mechanics of the process itself is still somewhat of a mystery. Share on Pinterest The researchers filmed the gradual fusing of a mouse sperm cell with a mouses egg cell; these images show over 100 minutes of the sperm cell slowly being assimilated into the membrane and the cytoplasm of the egg cell. Image credit: Benjamin Ravaux Now, new techniques featuring an IVF chip presented recently at the Biophysical Societys 60th annual meeting in Los Angeles, CA, promise to reveal new insights into how a single sperm cell fuses with an egg cell. The researchers hope the new techniques will help us better understand the causes of infertility and improve treatments. At the meeting, Benjamin Ravaux, a physics graduate student at the Ecole Normale Superieure de Paris in France, described how, using the completely new approach, he and his colleagues captured high-resolution images of the events that unfold at the membrane of the egg cell during mammalian fertilization. Ravaux says the IVF chip is a unique tool to observe the cascade of molecular and membrane events occurring during the fertilization process, under conditions that mimic what happens in nature. The idea and design of the device are the product of expertise in biophysics and fertilization and assisted reproduction technologies (ART) including in vitro fertilization (IVF). At the heart of the new approach is an IVF chip a microfluidic device made from an electronic chip comprising several layers of silicon polymer sealed on a glass slide. The design of the chip allows a sperm cell to be held in the bottom layer with an egg cell held above it, inside an egg cup. At the bottom of the egg cup is a tiny opening, with a width of about 30 microns (roughly half the width of human hair). With an increasingly aging prison population, end-of-life care for inmates is becoming a more prominent issue, according to Penn State nursing researchers. End-of-life -- EOL -- care can be complicated, no matter who the patient is, but can be especially challenging for those behind bars. "The volume and quality of research about end-of-life care in prisons has increased, but research is still largely exploratory and descriptive," said Susan J. Loeb, associate professor of nursing and medicine. "We need to move toward more intervention research." In 15 years, from 1995 to 2010, the U.S. prison population experienced a 282 percent increase in the number of inmates 55 and older. During that time, hospice care in prisons has increased, but the systems in place are not consistent across the country. Loeb and Rachel K. Wion, a nursing Ph.D. student, analyzed 19 peer-reviewed research articles about EOL or palliative care for prisoners published between 2002 and 2014. All but one of these articles were conducted in the U.S. They report their results in the Feb. 26, 2016) issue of the American Journal of Nursing. "It was surprising to find that family was clearly absent from these studies," said Loeb, also director of the Ph.D. program in nursing. "There was mention of prisoners receiving family visits, but there was no family perspective on end-of-life care in prison." The researchers found that the number of designated hospice beds in prisons varied from as low as one bed to a high of "unlimited," although nine available hospice beds was the average. EOL care for prisoners is provided by a wide variety of people, from fellow inmates to professional healthcare workers, and the care itself ranged from addressing psychosocial and emotional needs to providing healthcare interventions. Attitudes toward hospice care for prisoners varied among prison staff, with corrections officers expressing the most resistance. However, corrections officers who had substantial hospice exposure were more supportive than those with little or no exposure. The status of inmate caregivers varied across the studies reviewed -- some were paid, some were not; some worked one hour per week, while others worked 40 to 48 hours a week; some prisons trained the inmate caregivers for an hour, while others received four weeks of training. "Hospice coordinators felt that EOL care had a positive impact on the general prison population as well as on dying prisoners because it promoted compassion and presented an alternative to the view of the prison system as entirely punitive -- showing it to be more humane and caring, supportive of the dignity of the dying patient, and encouraging trust between prison staff and inmates," wrote Wion and Loeb. Moving forward, the researchers say more research should be done to look at healthcare providers' approach to EOL care and to how patients, prison administrators and external hospice providers view the quality of EOL care delivered by healthcare professionals in prisons. The researchers also note that looking at end-of-life care in non-American prisons is important, as very little research has been done in prisons elsewhere in the world. Emergency action expected to bolster US laboratory capacity for Zika testing. In response to a request from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued an Emergency Use Authorization (EUA) for a diagnostic tool for Zika virus that will be distributed to qualified laboratories and, in the United States, those that are certified to perform high-complexity tests. The test, called the CDC Zika IgM Antibody Capture Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay (Zika MAC-ELISA), is intended for use in detecting antibodies that the body makes to fight a Zika virus infection. These antibodies (in this case, immunoglobulin M, or IgM) appear in the blood of a person infected with Zika virus beginning 4 to 5 days after the start of illness and last for about 12 weeks. The test is intended to be used on blood samples from people with a history of symptoms associated with Zika and/or people who have recently traveled to an area during a time of active Zika transmission. The FDA can use the EUA to permit use, based on scientific data, of certain medical products in certain circumstances, including when there is a determination, by the Secretary of Health and Human Services, that there is a significant potential for a public health emergency that has a significant potential to affect national security or the health and security of United States citizens. As there are no commercially available diagnostic tests cleared or approved by the FDA for the detection of Zika virus infection, it was determined that an EUA is crucial to ensure timely access to a diagnostic tool. CDC's Zika MAC-ELISA is the first diagnostic test authorized for use in the U.S. for the detection of Zika virus during this situation in which there has been a determination that there is a significant potential for a public health emergency that has a significant potential to affect national security or the health and security of United States citizens living abroad and that involves Zika virus. Results of Zika MAC-ELISA tests require careful interpretation. A positive test result indicates that a person was likely infected recently with the Zika virus. However, the test can give an incorrect positive. These false-positive results can occur when someone has been infected with another closely related virus (such as dengue virus). When positive or inconclusive results occur, additional testing (plaque reduction neutralization test) to confirm the presence of antibodies to Zika virus will be performed by CDC or a CDC-authorized laboratory. Moreover, a negative test result does not necessarily mean that a person has not been infected with Zika virus. If a sample is collected just after a person becomes ill, there may not be enough antibodies for the test to measure, resulting in a false negative. Similarly, if the sample was collected more than 12 weeks after illness, it is possible that the body has successfully fought the virus and antibody levels have dropped below the detectable limit. As with any test, it is important that health care providers consult with their patients about test results and the best approach to monitoring their health. CDC will begin distributing the test during the next two weeks to qualified laboratories in the Laboratory Response Network, an integrated network of domestic and international laboratories that can respond to public health emergencies. The test will not be available in U.S. hospitals or other primary care settings. Public health officials anticipate that distribution of the tests will improve laboratory testing capacity for Zika virus in the United States. Please complete this form and we'll send you a personalised information that is requested You may use this for your own reference or forward it to your friends. Please use the information prudently. If you are not a medical doctor please remember to consult your healthcare provider as this information is not a substitute for professional advice. In an article in the London daily Al-Hayat, Egyptian intellectual Walid Mahmoud 'Abd Al-Nasser sought to disprove a common theory in the Arab world, according to which only a war like Europe's Hundred Years' War, that brought the continent out of the Middle Ages and into the scientific and technological age, will rescue the Arabs from their current tragic situation. Enumerating four points to support his argument, 'Abd Al-Nasser wrote that first, there is no guarantee that what happened in Europe so long ago will happen in the Arab world today, in light of today's different environments and circumstances, such as modern information technology. Second, while the Hundred Years' War took place only in Europe and involved only European elements, the wars in the Arab region involve both regional and international elements. Third, judging from past experience, even when the Arab world predicted positive results, the actual results were negative. Fourth, the proponents of this theory are in effect aiming to implement the 'Creative Chaos' theory, "which certainly does not bode well for the Arabs." 'Abd Al-Nasser then called on the Arabs to ignore this theory and to extricate themselves from their current state through deep thought and serious action, based on "realistic principles stemming from the Arab dream, which has not yet vanished." Walid Mahmoud 'Abd Al-Nasser (Source: Youm7.com) The following are excerpts from his article:[1] "Some people in the Arab world, both enthusiastic young people and intellectuals and analysts, are now arguing... that perhaps the only way for the Arabs to emerge from their current catastrophic situation is to first undergo an experience similar to that of the Hundred Years' War, that took place in Europe between 1337 and 1453. Some might justify this argument by calling it the outcome of a pessimistic atmosphere and an expectation of worse to come... "I understand the logic behind this theory: Its essence is that Europe's Hundred Years' War gave rise to several positive phenomena that prepared the ground for the qualitative turn in Europe's history, from the age of darkness to the age of the great discoveries of the New World and the emergence of the first signs of the science and technology era, and to the Renaissance and the Industrial Revolution, which led [the continent out of] the age of feudalism to the age of capitalism. Europe also went through a transitional period between the end of the Hundred Years' War and the start of the new period, that brought it superior status in the world. During this [transitional] period, there was unprecedented qualitative development in weaponry, and a consolidation of nationalist sentiments, which laid a solid foundation for the establishment of European nation states... "This war played a part in laying the cornerstone for what we can call 'the components of the new European political culture'... which later developed and grew stronger. This war [also] birthed the realization that wars have devastating effects, not just for the vanquished, but also for the victor... which catalyzed new social trends in Europe in favor of peace and against war... "Conversely, there are elements that disprove this theory, some of which I will outline below: "1. If this vicious cycle of struggles and wars [in the Arab world]... continues or worsens, there is no guarantee that what happened in Europe following the Hundred Years' War will automatically also happen in the Arab homeland. We should be wary about the adage that 'history repeats itself,' for two reasons: First, because serious theories in interpreting history that argue that history repeats itself do not mean that it does so in the exact same way, but that events recur on a far more complex and advanced level. Second, when comparing two different geographic regions and two different time periods... we must take into account the differences in environment and influential variables, for example... the accelerated and unprecedented revolution in information technology in our modern world compared to medieval Europe... "2. The Hundred Years' War was fought within the European mainland and between European forces, mostly Britain and France, without intervention by or participation of non-European forces. In our reality, the wars and conflicts currently raging in the Arab world... are not solely between Arab sides; many regional players intervene in them, whether directly or indirectlyOC and so do many international elementsOC not out of love for the Arabs, but in order to realize their own national interests. [In fact,] Arab elements often receive help from non-Arab regional or international players in order to confront other Arab elements in wars and conflicts that are currently raging on Arab soil. "3. As for trusting that the current sequence of events in the Arab region will 'necessarily' give rise to something better for Arabs, as happened in Europe following the Hundred Years' War... according to our extensive experience with the Arab ummah regarding [situations that should have] 'necessarily' yielded positive results over the past several decades... most of these experiences [eventually] led to negative, and often catastrophic, results for the Arabs, either domestically or internationally... "4. Those who think that the Arabs must go through an experience similar to that of the Hundred Years' War in order to arrive at a better situation... are not preparing the ground for improving the situation of the Arabs, but rather for the implementation of the 'Creative Chaos' theory... This certainly does not bode well for the Arabs, [especially not] today, when all we want is for our nation states to continue to exist, and when we avoid even expressing the dream of Arab unity that has excited the imagination of millions of Arabs across the ages... "Perhaps these four elements do not fully explain all the reasons why we should oppose comparing the current turmoil in the Arab ummah with the Hundred Years' War in Europe... but they constitute a substantial and important indication disproving the main points of that theory. What is required is deep thought and serious action to emerge from the current tragic Arab situation [and to advance] towards a better one, based on realistic foundations stemming from the Arab dream, which has not yet vanished." Endnotes: [1] Al-Hayat (London), January 15, 2016. In an article published in the Russian daily Vedomosti on February 16, 2016, Russian sociologist Denis Sokolov, a senior researcher at the Russian Presidential Academy of National Economy and Public Administration, analyses recent developments in Russia, focusing on the role of Chechen President Ramazan Kadyrov in shaping Russia's political scene. In his article, titled "Taking the Best Stand in the Potential War of All against All - Ramzan Kadyrov's Shaping of the Future," Sokolov assesses that Russia's repressive policies, coupled with the economic crisis, may lead the country to an internal war of 'all against all', similar to the Russian civil war of 1918-1922 or to the current war in Syria, and argues that Chechen leader Ramzan Kadyrov has placed himself in the best position to remain in power in such a scenario. According to Sokolov, Kadyrov influences Russian political life on all levels and is dictating the country's agenda. In the foreign arena, Kadyrov (according to his own claims) sent special forces to fight the Islamic State (ISIS) in Syria even before Russian President Vladimir Putin sent the Russian bombers to this country. On the regional level, Sokolov says, he has set himself up as the undisputed leader of the North Caucasus by meddling in the political and religious affairs of neighboring republics and using political terrorism to silence rivals and oppositionists, and on the federal level, Kadyrov has been persecuting and silencing the liberal Russian opposition. The crippling economic crisis has not weakened him but rather strengthened the Chechen protection racket that is flourishing in Moscow as the demand for cash increases, Sokolov states. Sokolov describes the Chechen leader as "the face of the Russian political class whose institutional foundation is an alliance between the intelligence [agencies] and the criminal organizations." Prominent Russian oppositionist Ilya Yashin, who was a close friend of the slain Russian oppositionist Boris Nemtsov (whose assassination has been linked to Kadyrov), recently published a 65-page report about Kadyrov and his armed forces titled "A Threat to [Russia's] National Security,"[1] in which he echoes Sokolov's views about the Chechen leader. In this nine-chapter report, published on the first anniversary of Nemtsov's assassination, Yashin asserts that under Kadyrov's rule Chechnya has become a state-within-a-state. The Chechen president, he says, can count on a private army of close to 30,000 men and has established himself as a leader with no rivals or opposition. According to Yashin, Kadyrov poses a threat to Russia's national security, since he regards Russia as potential loot for himself. In response to Yashin's accusations, Kadyrov published the report on his social network accounts with the following comment: OCDear friends! We publish [this report] so that everyone can become familiar with it... I demonstrate my attitude towards this one-man show by sharing this masterpiece. We don't know how much blather is forthcoming, but what has already been written is nothing but blather.OC[2] In a February 27, 2016 interview on the Kremlin-affiliated television channel NTV, Kadyrov, whose term of office expires in April 2016, said he would not seek to continue as president. OCMy time is over. Every human being has a limit. I believe Kadyrov has passed his peak,OC he said. He explained that he planned to devote himself to "family, personal life, [and] Islamic studies," and added: "If there is a need for me to take up a shovel, an assault rifle or a backpack - I can do that.OC In another recent interview aired in the Russian Far East, he said: "There are lots of [potential] successors in our team. We have got very good specialists."[3] The following are translated excerpts from Sokolov's article:[4] Denis Sokolov (image: Ranepa.academia.edu) No Matter What Changes, Kadyrov Remains "From the 2000s to the mid-2010s, Russia's domestic policy, or rather its ideology, focused on the struggle against the 'local' terrorists and on the debate about modernization [of the country]. At that time, there was a need for an enemy like Dokka Umarov,[5] an underground organization like the Caucasus Emirate and a fighter of terrorism like [the head of the Chechen Republic,] Ramzan Kadyrov. But there were also some new developments: the Skolkovo [Innovation Center],[6] the G8 summit and the Sochi Olympics. In 2014, after Vladimir Putin's return to the presidency [in 2012], which was accompanied by the protests of the 'creative class' [i.e. Putin opponents],[7] and after the [Sochi] Olympics were tarnished by the Ukrainian Maidan,[8] everything changed. Modernization was replaced by Crimea, and the Skolkovo [Innovation Center] was replaced by Strelkov[9] [as the focus of attention]; the Kiev Junta,[10] and later ISIS, replaced the [Caucasus] Emirate [as the main enemies of the state]. [Similarly,] Umarov was replaced by [ISIS leader] Al-Baghdadi, by [Ukranian President Petro] Poroshenko[11] and by [business oligarch and former governor of Dnepropetrovsk Ihor] Kolomoyskyi,[12] and the 'creative class' was turned into a fifth column and then deteriorated to [the status of] 'foreign agents' and 'traitors.' However, Kadyrov remained." The Events In Syria Are 'A War Of Light Against Darkness' Waged By The Russian Army And Kadyrov "Kadyrov did not just remain, he is the one who shapes [Russia's] political agenda. [Recently] he announced that the Chechen Special Forces are fighting on Syrian soil and have been fighting there since before ISIS even emerged there,[13] that is, before Putin sent the bombers to Syria. The fight against terrorism is apparently meant to make up for [Kadyrov's] other sins. But the leader of Chechnya, more than anyone else, knows that the boundary between terrorism and fighting against it is only theoretical. He felt free to organize a protest against the comic strips of [the French magazine] Charlie Hebdo[14] - almost demonstrating his solidarity with the murderers - and then immediately after the [November 13, 2015] terrorist attacks in Paris, he called on the whole world to join together in the fight against ISIS.[15] "The fact that in 2015 many fighters from the North Caucasus in Syria joined ISIS, and the Caucasus Emirate's public pledge of allegiance to [ISIS leader] Al-Baghdadi, played into the hands of Moscow and Grozny by supporting the myth that the Russian security services, the [Russian] army and Kadyrov are waging a war of 'the forces light against the forces of darkness'..." Ramzan Kadyrov (image: rt.com, February 23, 2016) The Opposition Is The Enemy Of The Public And Is Considered Mentally Ill "It was after the murder of [Russian oppositionist] Boris Nemtsov[16] that... Kadyrov... began taking an active part in the upgrading of Russia's political machine.What is now beginning to be done to the extra-systemic opposition[17] on the federal level, [Kadyrov] has been applying for quite some time in his Republic, and he exported it beyond [the Republic's] borders. The killers of Nemtsov are called patriots,[18] and the opposition is the enemy of the public and is considered mentally ill. The methods of bullying people, suppressing any criticism and persecuting oppositionists' families are used. Kadyrov is one step ahead of the federal agenda... Participants at a rally in memory of Russian opposition politician Boris Nemtsov, on the first anniversary of his murder in Moscow, Russia (Image: Sergei Karpukhin/Reuters, February 27, 2016) "In the beginning of February 2016, a conflict with Ingushetia [a Russian Federation republic in the North Caucasus] developed. Kadyrov supported the mufti of Ingushetia, Issa Khamkhoyev, in his conflict with the president [of Ingushetia] Yunus-Bek Yevkurov. Kadyrov turned this political confrontation into a religious conflict, in which the president [of Ingushetia] was presented as a supporter of the Salafis, or, as they say, as an adherent of 'non-traditional Islam.'[19] This is a local agenda but a very important one... Kadyrov is actively using the conflict between the officially[-sanctioned] Islam and the Salafis as a tool for building his political machine across the entire North Caucasus..." Kadyrov's Exploitation Of The Economic Crisis "A further escalation of the economic crisis will only contribute to the spread of existing criminal practices in the south of [Russia]. The drop in household incomes will lead to a rise in the informal sector of the economy [i.e., the "black economy"] which has already grown to 20% (according to official data), instead of 10%, which was the average across Russia before the start of the crisis... There are hardly any car services or restaurants left in Moscow that are operating without the protection of Chechen kryshas [literally "roofs," referring to Chechen protection gangs]... The struggle for cash will only escalate. "Why is Kadyrov ahead of everyone?.. [Because] he does not [try to] predict anything and does not wait. Out of two versions of the future, Kadyrov always chooses the one in which he will remain and drags the whole system in this direction. Part of the Russian political elite voluntarily or involuntarily finds itself in the same version of reality as the Chechen leader." Political Terrorism Has Become The Main Political Tool In The North Caucasus "Thanks to his public activity, Kadyrov has become the face of the Russian political class whose institutional foundation is an alliance between the intelligence [agencies] and the criminal organizations that emerged in the 1990s in St. Petersburg...Under the guise of the war on terror, the law-enforcement system in the North Caucasus -and now across the country - is fighting political rivals and ideological dissidence... "Since the second Chechen war,[20] intelligence agencies [such as the Federal Security Service (FSB), the former KGB] have gained the highest political status. As a result, political terrorism has become the main political tool used in Dagestan, Chechnya and other regions of the North Caucasus. Society, horrified by the [armed groups'] bombings of homes, schools, theaters and hospitals, obediently feared the armed underground and justified the unrestrained actions of law enforcement officials... Two or three suspected terrorists (sometimes people who were forced from their homes one day before they turned out to be terrorists) are surrounded by three rings of armored vehicles and hundreds of special unit officers who turn the house into a heap of bricks and concrete... Who knows where the network of [intelligence] agents ends and the terrorist one begins? Who really equips and sends the suicide bombers and why do they do it? At the same time, the so-called illegal armed groups have often served the interests of local political elites by organizing economic blackmail and eliminating political rivals... "Kadyrov declares all these practices, as well as his participation in the war in southeast Ukraine, to be correct and patriotic. This is a consistent political agenda [which can be used] to consolidate a party. This political agenda is for those who, like Kadyrov, do not have any alternative..." The Political Opposition Is Fleeing "Since around 2003, social activists in the Caucasus risk being placed on the list of untrusted or even unwanted individuals. If they oppose corruption and [officials] abusing [their power] in disputes over land, or advocate the notion of practicing Islam according to one's own beliefs, they could be convicted under the same article of the Criminal Code as the fighters of Caucasus Emirate. This includes being apprehended and interrogated under torture and/or being kidnapped. "The practice of planting drugs or ammunition on 'wrong Muslims' during searches, and then arresting them and giving them a choice between a lengthy prison sentence and paying for permission to leave the country, has created a stream of political refugees, as well as an armed resistance. Thousands of people have left Russia and other CIS [Russian Commonwealth of Independent States] countries for Turkey, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Ukraine and the European Union, fleeing from the authorities' religious persecution... "In the 2000s there was a 'small hijra', when Muslims of the North Caucasus who formed a political opposition or took a stand against the local security forces were outlawed in the region. Some took to the woods and some moved to other cities and regions (for example, some Salafis left Dagestan, where they had been persecuted, in favor of Moscow, St. Petersburg, and the Tyumen region). In the 2010s there was a 'global hijra,'when the entire opposition (including Muslims, nationalists, and liberals) faced repression due to their ideological dissidence... "The political terror against the activists of religious and national revival fueled the armed underground in the mid-2000s, as well as its global reincarnation- the flood of political migrants and mujahideen - in the mid-2010s. [Furthermore,] the collapse of the Russian oil economy may trigger an [internal] armed confrontation. Kadyrov, thanks to his animal instincts, has already taken the best possible position for a potential war of 'all against all,' which promises to be very similar to the events that are unfolding in Syria today or even to those that took place in Russia during the Civil War of 1918-1922. History, as always, will be written by the victors, but there is chance for a different future, provided someone can be found to make this alternative choice." Endnotes: The Oscars came, conquered and left us with a great start to the day. In case you were busy snoozing the alarm in bed, hung over or maybe hibernating in a cave, then let us list out the Oscar winners for this year! 1. BEST PICTURE: Spotlight Reuters The American biographical crime drama film follows The Boston Globe's "Spotlight" team of the Boston Globe which is the oldest newspaper investigative journalist unit and its investigation into cases of child sex abuse in the Boston area by Roman Catholic priests. 2. BEST ACTOR: Leonardo DiCaprio (The Revenant) Reuters Finally the moment which the world was waiting for arrived today. Leo finally won the best actor Oscar for his portrayal of frontiersman Hugh Glass in The Revenant. 3. BEST ACTRESS: Brie Larson (Room) Reuters The melancholic yet beautiful movie, Room, had Brie Larson play the character of Ma so effortlessly. This one is well deserved for her. 4. BEST DIRECTOR: Alejandro Inarritu (The Revenant) Reuters This movie turned out special for more than one reason. Besides Leonardo taking home the best actor Oscar, Alejandro created history for winning the best director award two times in a row! He won his last Oscar last year for Birdman. 5. BEST ORIGINAL SONG: Writings on the wall (Spectre) Reuters This track by Sam Smith for Spectre won the best original song. 6. BEST SUPPORTING ACTOR: Mark Rylance (Bridge of Spies) Reuters Mark won the best supporting actor award for his amazing role in Steven Spielbergs cold war thriller. He played the role of a Soviet spy involved in a dangerous exchange. 7. BEST SUPPORTING ACTRESS: Alicia Vikander (The Danish Girl) Reuters She won the best supporting actress Oscar for her role in Tom Hoopers transgender drama The Danish Girl, beating Kate Winslet for the award. 8. BEST DOCUMENTARY FEATURE: Amy Reuters This documentary depicts the life of Amy Winehouse who led a scandalous life and died at a young age of 27 due to drug abuse. This award is also a moment for pride for us Indians as it has been directed by Asif Kapadia, a British-Indian filmmaker. Arun Jaitleys Budget for 2016 is low on reforms and high on implementation. Jaitley said that although the global economy is in a serious crisis, the IMF has hailed India as a bright spot. All eyes were on his Budget today to show that India can sustain the battering of the impending economic crisis that is around the corner. Sadly, there isnt much to take away from Budget 2016 in terms of actual reforms. On the other hand, there are many initiatives and sops that Jaitley has provided to companies, farmers and the common man that could herald the reforms that India desperately needs. Here are the highlights from #Budget2016 for the common Indian man. 1. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley has proposed nine pillars that will set the tone for Indias transformation. These include agriculture and farmer welfare, where Jaitley has proposed to double farmers income in the next five years. Next highlight was on rural sector. Third was social sector including healthcare. Next was educational skills and job creation. Fifth was infrastructure investment. Sixth is financial sector reforms. Seventh was governance reforms and ease of doing business. Jaitley has said that reforms to let companies start operations within one day will be implemented. Eighth was prudent management of government finances, and lastly tax reforms. Check out the nine pillars of #VikasKaBudget, for transforming India#Budget2016 pic.twitter.com/71BoaMgbK8 PIB India (@PIB_India) February 29, 2016 2. There is no change in the income tax slabs. Your income tax remains the same for the next financial year. There are a couple of cheers to add on though. House Rent Allowance tax relief has been hiked from Rs 24,000 to Rs 60,000 under section 88G. You can also withdraw up to 40 per cent of your money from the National Pension Scheme. AP 3. The government has said it will give Aadhaar a legal status. This is important to ensure that the Aadhaar card is compliant with the Supreme Courts conditions and also to ensure that subsidies and other benefits reach those for whom it is intended. 4. In order to create more jobs, Arun Jaitley has proposed that start-ups need not pay any tax for the first three years. More proposals can be found in the tweet from the Finance Ministry below. 5. If you are buying a new car, theres bad news ahead. The government will levy a cess of 1 per cent on small petrol and CNG cars, 2.5 per cent on diesel cars and 4 per cent on SUVs and other models. 6. Beware of fooling the income tax department. In order to curb black money and increase the governments revenue, the government has proposed to charge a penalty of 50 per cent of the tax amount to those who under-report their income. This will rise to 200 per cent in case of misreporting of facts. There is also a limited period disclosure of undisclosed money that will be free from any penalty. Limited period compliance window for taxpayers to declare undisclosed income. Declarations to have immunity from prosecutions #VikasKaBudget Ministry of Finance (@FinMinIndia) February 29, 2016 7. First-time home buyers will get an additional deduction of Rs 50,000 on interest for loan up to Rs 35 lakh and where the cost of the house does not exceed Rs 50 lakh. This is being seen as a move to give impetus to affordable housing in the country. 8. The government has recognised retail trade as the largest employer in the country. Keeping them in mind, it has proposed to allow small and medium shops to remain open on all days of the week. This is perhaps the governments way of protecting them from the onslaught of online retailers. AP 9. Public monopoly over surface transport comes to an end. The government will open road transport for private players who can now run fleets of buses. In addition, over 160 defunct airports will also be developed to cater to the countrys burgeoning middle-class. 10. Budget 2016 is more focussed on improving the lives of farmers and small traders. It has also proposed massive spending in the infrastructure sector. These reforms will take time to get off the ground but are seen as important to bring about social equality. And finally, the government said it is committed to the passage of the GST Bill as soon as possible. What do you think of the Union Budget presented by Arun Jaitley? Let us know your views in the comments below. In perhaps Samsungs biggest legal win over Apple in their long-running patent war, a federal apppeals court Friday overturned a 2014 verdict that slapped the South Korean tech giant with nearly $120 million in damages for copying certain iPhone features. The U.S. Federal Circuit Court of Appeals dismantled a San Jose jurys findings in the second trial between the two rivals, essentially concluding that the technology at the heart of Apples lawsuit was so obvious that Samsung could not be punished for incorporating it into its smartphones. The appeals court added salt to Apples wound by upholding a $158,000 judgment against the Cupertino company for infringing a Samsung tech patent involving camera features. In addressing one of Apples patents for its popular slide-to-unlock feature, the appeals court noted that a key argument about such technology being integral to the iPhones popularity does not overcome Samsungs position that much of the information was readily available to the industry. A reasonable jury could therefore not find a nexus between the patented feature and the commercial success of the iPhone, the court wrote. For Apple, the ruling marks a damaging blow to the companys legal and public relations campaign that years ago set out to prove that Samsung copied iPhone and iPad technology in its own line of competing smartphones and tablets. Apple may still prevail in the end, but its court fight continues to be bloodied in the appellate courts. The end result in this case is a huge moral victory for Samsung, said Brian Love, a Santa Clara University law professor. (The ruling) is a big blow to Apples contention that Samsung and other Android manufacturers were little more than copiers riding on its coattails. The ruling involved the second trial between the two companies, when an eight-member jury in 2014 determined that Samsung violated two Apple patents, including its slide-to-unlock feature on iPhones, and awarded Apple nearly $120 million in damages. That came after a first trial in 2012 that ultimately resulted in Apple claiming more than $500 million in damages for Samsungs patent violations on even older smartphones and tablets, a verdict that was upheld last year by the Federal Circuit. Even that decision eroded Apples case the amount was reduced from an original verdict of nearly $1 billion. Samsungs appeal of that first trial decision is now pending in the U.S. Supreme Court. And U.S. District Judge Lucy Koh is scheduled in late March to rehear a portion of the first case involving a retrial on some of the damages issues. Apple declined to comment on Fridays ruling. The company can ask the Washington, D.C.-based Federal Circuit to rehear the case with its entire roster of judges or appeal to the Supreme Court. In sheer dollar terms, it isnt that significant compared to the first trial, Mark Lemley, a Stanford University law professor, said of the ruling wiping out the second trial verdict. But it is consistent with the idea that this fight is likely to end, not with a bang, but with a whimper. The jury in the second trial found nine Samsung smartphones had in some way infringed two iPhone technology patents the slide-to-unlock and auto-correct features after a judge earlier found one other patent also had been violated. Samsungs Galaxy S3, the most recent smartphone involved in that trial, accounted for the largest chunk of the damages award, about $52 million of the total. Those findings were wiped out by Fridays ruling. To underscore how far the legal battle has lagged behind new products, Samsung is now on to its Galaxy S6 versions while Apple has unveiled its iPhone 6S. During the 2014 trial, Samsung argued that Apple was in fact targeting software features for the most part developed by Google for its Android operating system, which ran the 10 Samsung products involved in the trial. Samsungs lawyers told the jury that Apples case was about its holy war against Google, quoting a comment from an internal email from late CEO Steve Jobs, and not truly aimed at Samsung. But Apple accused Samsung of trying to hide behind Google, telling the jury that Samsung, not Google, decides what technology to include and sell in its smartphones and tablets. Apple also introduced evidence that Google has agreed to cover at least part of Samsungs legal costs if it loses the patent case. The Federal Circuit ruling is something of a reversal in the second trial appeals. The appeals court previously backed Apples request for an injunction that required Samsung to stop sales of those products, which amounted to a symbolic victory, given that the devices had already largely been replaced on the market. In that ruling, a divided Federal Circuit panel observed: The right to exclude competitors from using ones property rights is important. This is not a case where the public would be deprived of Samsungs products, the appeals court ruled. Apple does not seek to enjoin the sale of lifesaving drugs, but to prevent Samsung from profiting from the unauthorized use of infringing features in its cellphones and tablets. Apple established that Samsung believed these features were important and copied them, the court added. Howard Mintz covers legal affairs. Contact him at 408-286-0236 or follow him at Twitter.com/hmintz. I was prepared for anything. Ive been at Apple shareholder meetings OK, Im dating myself here when investors stormed the citadel and called for the CEOs head. Apple investors at the annual meeting Friday might have demanded that the company break open the iPhone for the FBI, the controversy that has embroiled the company for the past two weeks, and move past this distraction to other projects that could improve the bottom line: conquering new markets (India) and launching new products (the rumored Apple car), to name two. Instead, the 200 or so shareholders cheered Tim Cook, who in turn thanked them for their support. It must have been a good feeling for Cook after all the heat he has gotten from law enforcement, politicians and average citizens who wonder why the company is taking a stand over an issue involving a terrorist case. If he is feeling the pressure of being in the news lately, as he put it in an understated way, Cook didnt show it. We are a staunch advocate for our customers privacy and personal safety, said Cook, casually perched on a stool with his iPad at the ready. We do these (things) because these are the right things to do. Being hard doesnt scare us. Cooks appearance in front of shareholders capped quite a week for the company. Apple is caught in a war of words with the FBI and the U.S. government over the encryption of the iPhone used by Syed Farook, one of the San Bernardino assailants responsible for the death of 14 people and the serious injury of 22 in December. The dispute was the topic of a congressional hearing this week and even became part of the GOP presidential debate Thursday night. The company has received the support of key tech companies such as Microsoft, Facebook and Google. Also Thursday, Apple responded to a court order that it comply with the FBIs request to help law enforcement gain access to the phones contents. Apple said that forcing the company to write software to hack the phone was a form of compelled speech, among other arguments, claiming that Apple was entitled to First Amendment protections. Cook made a 30-minute appearance this week on ABC News defending the companys stance, sounding populist themes about protecting our digital privacy. There, in trying to make a point about how serious the situation is, Cook compared cracking the iPhones protections to writing the software equivalent of cancer. I thought that metaphor, which he repeated several times, was a rare misstep on Cooks part. Hyperbole, as we know from watching the GOP presidential candidates debate, can be very useful. But Apple has to be extremely careful how it portrays this dilemma and overstating the situation can backfire both in court and in the court of public opinion. So far, people are roughly divided evenly in support of Apple and the FBI, polls show. And meanwhile, there are plenty of other pressure points for Apple, which, after all, is a global company with a lot at stake. At the annual meeting, shareholders held forth about other topics such as how retail stores could better serve the business community and Apples future in China and India. Apple has big hopes for India, was Cooks message. When will the new campus be finished, one person asked: January 2017. Steve spent the last couple years of his life really dedicating himself to that project. It will be the center of innovation for years to come, Cook said, referring to Apple co-founder and former chief executive, Steve Jobs. And is Apple making an iCar? Cook: Remember when you were a kid and Christmas Eve was so exciting and you werent sure what was going to be downstairs? Its going to be Christmas Eve for awhile. Shareholders voted down a proposal asking the company to accelerate the recruitment process of senior leadership in order to make those ranks more diverse. But even the Rev. Jesse Jackson of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition didnt dwell on diversity and tech, one of his top issues. Instead, he applauded the company for its stance in its running battle with the FBI, saying there has to be a way that supports personal freedom and privacy and supports the needs of law enforcement and national security. He evoked an era in U.S. history when law enforcement created an enemies list of civil rights leaders who were monitored. Those who have no regard for human rights, if they have the power to order a company to open up files, there are no limits, Jackson told me. Cook did his job well Friday, projecting a quiet calm and unwavering commitment to the issue. I hope he had a chance to savor the moment. Other venues Cook may go to in the coming months wont be as friendly. Contact Michelle Quinn at 510-394-4196 and mquinn@mercurynews.com. Follow her at Twitter.com/michellequinn. State revokes citizenships over fraud Two have rights completely pulled 100 more cases being investigated By Chinedu Onyejelem Two naturalised Irish people have recently had their citizenship revoked by the State, Metro Eireann has learned. And the Department of Justice added that a further approximately 100 cases are being examined with a view to whether they should be stripped of their Irish citizenship. Justice declined to discuss any details of the two revocations and suspect cases, but Metro Eireann understands that the reasons indicate possible fraud, misrepresentation whether innocent or fraudulent, or concealment of material facts or circumstances. A number of these investigations date back as far as five years, and may include at least one person who was refused asylum in Canada and was subsequently deported by the Canadian authorities, as reported in the 1 February 2013 edition of Metro Eireann. It is also believed that hundreds more naturalised Irish could lose their right to citizenship if the terms and conditions of naturalisation are fully implemented by the State. Migrant-led coalition calls for greater representation By Meghan Nosal A coalition of immigrant-led organisations has launched a campaign demanding equality in legislation, housing, wages, education and the labour market as the General Election fast approaches. Migrants for Irelands manifesto also calls on politicians to commit to legislation on hate crimes, immigration, the ratifying the Istanbul Convention on FGM and the 27th Amendment, which removed the Constitutional birthright to citizenship for children of foreign nationals. The group is also demanding an end to deportations and the direct provision system as it called on Irelands politicians to see immigration as an opportunity. Twelve per cent of Irelands population are immigrants, the group added, but few of these are naturalised citizens with the right to vote in the General Election. Meanwhile, Migrants for Ireland is also urging migrants to participate in Irish society and be heard in the decision-making processes. The coalition believes Government bodies and local authorities need to work more with immigrant communities, and is calling on election candidates to pledge to better represent such communities throughout Ireland. Speaking at the launch of the Migrants for Ireland manifesto, Neltah Chadamoyo of the Africa Centre encouraged eligible migrants to make their votes count. Our vote is a negotiation, she said, adding that the Government had not produced legislation to help our community. Emily Waszak of the Anti Racism Network Ireland echoed Chadomoyos comments, saying that migrants need to hold their politicians responsible especially in the push to end direct provision. They admit to it being inhumane, so why cant we end it? she said. As far as Irelands migrants being under-represented in the electorate, Waszak suggested vote-sharing as a way to build solidarity and achieve real action within migrant communities. - As of press time, Metro Eireann had learned of only two immigrant candidates declared for the 2016 General Election. Canadian-Irish international law lecturer Dr Rosyln Fuller hopes to be elected as an independent in the new five-seat constituency of Dublin Fingal, which is home to significant migrant communities as is Dublin Mid-West, where Patrick Akpoveta, who previously stood for local election in Lucan, is also running as an independent. Support is growing nationally for independents and candidates representing new parties such as Renua, Direct Democracy Ireland and the Social Democrats, as well as the Anti-Austerity Alliance-People Without Profit. RTEs first campaign poll shows that gains are also predicted for Fianna Fail and Sinn Fein, however the Government parties Fine Gael and Labour are also expected to retain many of their seats, though likely short of a majority. Another welcome funding boost for Irish development NGOs By Chinedu Onyejelem More than 60m in funding is to be given to Irish NGOs to facilitate their work in developing countries. The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said the funding granted to 16 NGOs will aim to shore up sustainable development projects, and also help in the fight against poverty and hunger. In a joint statement, Foreign Affairs Minister Charlie Flanagan and Minister of State for Development Sean Sherlock said the 61.34m funding for 2016 will be solely for Irish aid agencies and their partners with proven capacity and expertise undertaking long-term development programmes across Africa, Asia, South and Central America and the Middle East. Ireland is again showing its determination to support the fight against poverty, hunger and marginalisation, said Minister Flanagan, who added that the State is making a sustained contribution to humanitarian support for those caught up in conflicts such as those affected by the civil war in Syria. Long-term development is equally critical and Ireland is supporting work that benefits the poorest, where it is needed most and where it has greatest effect, he added. Minister Sherlock elaborated that the funding would enable Irish partner aid organisations that can reach those most at risk to help sustain livelihoods and education, to build resilience and promote human rights and good governance goals shared by Irish Aid and our valued civil society partners. He added that the funding the fifth round of its type underlines Irelands ongoing commitment to achieving the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as agreed in 2015. The goals targeted include continued work in the areas of agriculture, improving livelihoods, nutrition and health, as well as in social protection, education, governance and human rights. Since the inception of the scheme in 2012, the department said Irish Aid has given 315.45m to 16 civil society programme partners for long-standing sustainable projects across the world. Action Aid, Aidlink, ChildFund Ireland, Children in Crossfire, Christian Aid Ireland and Concern Worldwide are some of the NGOs that have benefited from this funding. NGO funding allocations for 2016 Concern Worldwide - 19,173,597 Supporting long-term development programmes in 18 countries across sub-Saharan Africa, Asia and the Caribbean. It aims to ensure that the poorest are meeting their basic needs through increased income and food production and improved education and health facilities. Trocaire - 15,079,015 Supporting programmes in the 17 countries, it aims to ensure that governments are held to account through the active participation of citizens in governance structures; achieve equitable access to basic needs, services and resources; and promote, protect and defend human rights. Goal - 11,942,977 Supporting programmes in Ethiopia, Sudan, South Sudan, Uganda, Malawi, Kenya, Sierra Leone, Zimbabwe and India. These programmes aim to improve health, especially maternal and child health; reduce marginalisation of vulnerable children and youth; and promote resilient livelihoods. Christian Aid Ireland - 2,930,836 Supporting programmes in Angola, Sierra Leone, Zimbabwe, Colombia, El Salvador, Guatemala and Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. The programmes work to bring about pro-poor government responses and increased stability and security for poor and marginalised people affected by high inequality, human rights violations and conflict. Gorta Self Help Africa - 2,469,510 Supporting rural communities, in Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Uganda and Zambia, to achieve food security through increased production and access to food, and engages in community capacity-building, advocacy and learning. Oxfam Ireland - 1,876,419 Supporting programmes in Tanzania, Rwanda, Malawi, South Africa and Zimbabwe. These aim to strengthen rural livelihoods, promote womens leadership and economic empowerment and address gender-based violence, and increase equitable access to HIV and Aids treatment and support. Sightsavers Ireland - 1,508,345 Supporting programmes in Sierra Leone, Liberia, Guinea, Cameroon, Mali and Senegal. The overall objective of the Sightsavers programme is to improve access to healthcare, education and social inclusion for vulnerable people, especially the blind, visually impaired and disabled. World Vision 1,421,955 Supporting health programmes in Kenya, Mauritania, Sierra Leone, Tanzania and Uganda. Its Access Infant and Maternal Health programmes are addressing high levels of mother and child morbidity and mortality. Plan Ireland - 1,079,833 Supporting programmes in Sierra Leone, Burkina Faso, Guinea Bissau and Guinea, which aim to increase the quality and inclusiveness of education programmes. Action Aid - 841,455 HelpAge International - 600,761 ChildFund Ireland - 593,653 Children in Crossfire - 533,420 Aidlink - 525,888 Front Line Defenders - 483,690 Serve in Solidarity Ireland - 278,646 New visa stamp for non-EEA graduates By Staff Reporter The Department of Justice has launched a new stamp for students from non-EEA countries who are accessing the Third Level Graduate Scheme. According to the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service (INIS), the new Stamp 1G introduced on 1 February for new applicants replaces the Stamp 2 status usually given to those in the programme, which allows legally resident third-level graduates from recognised institutions outside of Europe to remain in Ireland for the purposes of residence and seeking employment for a limited period. Although there are no changes to the eligibility criteria for graduates availing of the scheme, the INIS says the new stamp has been introduced for the purpose of greater clarity for both students and employers and to distinguish this group from other non-EEA students. The Stamp 1G categorisation which is only available to qualifying students a single time will also enable employers to more easily determine those who are entitled to work full-time under this scheme. For the time being, Stamps 1G and 2 will be in use simultaneously until the later is phased out for use by graduates, thouugh it will continue to be issued to others as necessary. Graduates with permission under the scheme with Stamp 2 are similarly entitled to work full time, the INIS added. They should also be able to produce to employers a transcript of their final results from the college in support of their entitlement. More information is available on page 16 of the Guidelines for Degree Programme Students available from the on the INIS website at tinyurl.com/3poua34 Special citizenship for contributions to Irish life By Chinedu Onyejelem An exclusive group of 100 immigrants will be granted Irish citizenship next month in recognition of their contributions to Ireland, Metro Eireann has learned. The Department of Justice said the special citizenship ceremony is planned for Waterford City Hall on 4 March as part of the 1848 Tricolour Celebration for 2016. The Government is committed to respecting all traditions on this island equally. It also recognises that developing a greater understanding of our shared history, in all of its diversity, is essential to developing greater understanding and building a shared future, added a spokesperson for the Department of the Taoiseach. The celebrations for the centenary of the Easter Rising will belong to everyone on this island and to our friends and families overseas regardless of political or family background, or personal interpretation of our modern history. The Government is committed to ensuring that 2016 will be a year of rich and diverse activities when the full complexity of the last 100 years on this island can be explored and celebrated, the spokesperson added. Meanwhile, some 2,500 new Irish citizens will also receive their naturalisation certificates in ceremonies planned for Dublins Convention Centre on Friday 15 April. The World At Home Charles Laffiteau's Bigger Picture Now that voters in the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primaries have finally spoken, do the results of these first contests really indicate who the future presidential nominees of the Republican and Democratic Parties will be? The short answer is no. Even though all of the candidates devote vast amounts of time, money and resources to trying to win either or both of these first-in-the-nation polls, the victors often find it difficult to duplicate their success in other states with more demographically diverse populations. In fact, both Iowa and New Hampshire are really more of an indication of what Americas demographics were more than 50 years ago than they are today. However, the differences dont just stop with the racial and ethnic makeup. Both Iowa and New Hampshire have lower levels of unemployment and much higher percentages of married couple households than other American states. There are also big differences in the makeup of the Republican and Democratic parties within them as compared to other states. For example, evangelicals comprise more than 65 per cent of Republican voters in Iowa but represent less than 20 of the GOPs base in New Hampshire. Given the large percentage of evangelical conservatives that participate in the Iowa caucuses, I was not at all surprised that Ted Cruz finished on top with 27.6 per cent of the votes and eight of Iowas 26 delegates. More to the point, Cruz followed the same blueprint President Obama used to upset Hillary Clinton back in 2008; he knew he had an advantage given the large number of Christian conservatives in Iowa, so he ran a vigorous and savvy political campaign focused on getting those voters to the polls. Like Obama, Cruz spent his money on hundreds of campaign workers instead of running large numbers of TV and radio ads. On the other hand, Donald Trump made the mistake of believing his own press clippings instead of making a level-headed assessment of his chances of winning the Iowa caucuses. Trump chose to ignore the fact that even though McCain and Romney eventually won the Republican nomination, Mike Huckabee and Rick Santorum had won the Iowa caucuses thanks to evangelical voters. As a result, Trump set up expectations that Iowas results would mirror his public opinion polls, which is why he was viewed as a loser when they didnt. Given the fact that he had virtually no campaign organisation on the ground in Iowa, Trump actually did exceedingly well to finish with 24.3 per cent of the votes and seven delegates. Trumps 45,000 votes were also more than any previous Republican candidate had ever received in the Iowa caucuses. Marco Rubio made a late run and finished a close third with over 43,000 votes and seven delegates, but he more effectively made his third place finish look like he was the real winner in Iowa because, unlike Trump, he never said he expected to win. On the Democratic side, Bernie Sanders finished a very close second to Hillary Clinton in Iowa by capturing almost half of the votes and 21 of the states 44 Democratic delegates. Given the amount of time, money and effort Clinton had invested there, Sanders was certainly within his rights to claim that his close finish there was almost as good as a win. He should also feel good about his 20-point trouncing of Clinton in the New Hampshire primary a week later. But the real test for Sanders lies in more racially and ethnically diverse states like South Carolina and Nevada. He has to win there if he truly expects to challenge the Clinton machine. In New Hampshire, Trump handily defeated all of his Republican challengers by capturing over 35 per cent of the GOP vote and 10 of the states 17 delegates. Given the more moderate views of Republicans in New Hampshire, it also wasnt a total surprise that Ohio Governor John Kasich came in second with almost 16 per cent of the vote and three delegates. Because he knew New Hampshire Republicans were more open to his moderate policy prescriptions, Kasich had invested most of his time and money in New Hampshire, hoping that a good finish there would give him a leg up on other moderates like Jeb Bush and Chris Christie. While Ted Cruz has tried to spin his finish in a virtual third-place tie with Bush and Rubio as a victory of sorts, the truth is he only got 11 per cent of the vote while his more moderate opponents divvied up almost 50 per cent between them. While Cruz will probably claim victory in his home state of Texas on Super Tuesday, I doubt he can win enough delegates in the South to capture the Republican nomination. As it stands today, Trump looks like the favourite. Charles Laffiteau is a US Republican from Dallas, Texas pursuing a career in public service. He previously lectured on Contemporary US Business & Society at DCU from 2009-2011 and pursued a PhD in Public Policy and Political Economy. Roddy Doyles 2016 Roddy Doyles 2016 2. RECRUITING So. Here we are again. Five of us. Two missing? Through the chair? Yes? We wont be seeing the other two, I dont think. Theyre after getting cheap flights to Lanzarote. For Easter? Yeah. Theyre going off to the sun? Yeah. Well, so much for revolutionary commitment. Yeah. Moving on. Before we go through the agenda, any updates? Ive some good news. Great go on. Objection. Sorry? There should be a vote before we decide if the news is good or not. Possibly, yes good point. But lets hear it. Its two bit of good news, actually. We have a gun and some Brazilians. Great terrific. One gun, how many Brazilians? Three, so far. This is encouraging. Gun first. Where did you get it? My uncle. Oh. He has a shotgun. Had a shotgun. You took it? Yeah. You stole it. Its a revolution were planning, comrade, not a car boot sale. Will he not report the theft to the Garda? Unlikely. He has Alzheimhers. But his favourite book is My Fight For Irish Freedom, so I think hed have given it to me, anyway. Excellent. And its possibly in safer hands now if Im not being insensitive. He was pointing it at me when I took it off him. Grand good. And the Brazilians? Theyre outside. Outside the pub? Yeah. In the rain? Yeah. Well, bring them in. Excuse me a vote. But the rain the waters coming up the steps of the pub. A vote. Like, who are they? Theyre Brazilian I told you. We probably need a bit more than that. Are they male or female? Objection. Seconded. Sorry. But do they know what were planning? I didnt divulge the exact details, if thats what you mean. I wasnt aware that there were any exact details. Well, were storming the GPO on Easter Monday. All five of us. Well, four can storm a post office just as efficiently if youre not happy or you think Im some kind of a mole. Comrades please. Or an informer. Nobody thinks youre an informer. Vote. My grandfather shot informers. Is that a job? My grandfather delivered bread. Comrades please. Sorry through the chair. Ive to get back to the Dail for a vote. Right. Fine. The Brazilians? Theyre au pairs. Oh. And theyre being exploited by their employers the families theyre staying with. And you met them? On the Luas. They were angry. Speaking English? No. Portuguese. But they were reading texts that their bosses had sent them, in English. Clean oven. Stop coughing. Polish shoes and leave them at door. It was outrageous. Yes. And Yes? I got chatting to them and they told me that theyd be interested in joining in. Brazilian au pairs? Exploited Brazilian au pairs. Ready to topple the State. Dying to. Right, so. Quick vote show of hands. Discrete now, comrades. We dont want to look too like the inner council of a revolutionary army. One, two, three unanimous. Excellent. Ask them in then. Are you charging off to the Dail, comrade? I can hang on for a minute. Oh, good. Here they come. God love them, theyre drenched. Scooch over, lads, and make room for the comrades. Hello. Hi. Hi. We are Fernanda, Daniela, Ana Beatriz. Youre very welcome. Cead mile failte. Weve been hearing all about your being systematically exploited by your employers. Is very bad, like. Many hours. Cook, clean. Toilets. We are supposed to mind children. My woman, she takes 10 for clean sheets. I clean the sheets. I pay 10. Is mad, like. Its unacceptable. I think we all agree on that. This is exactly why were here. You know about our plan? Kill the very famous post office. Yes. More or less. Overthrow state. Exactly. Kill bosses. Maybe not kill them. He say kill them. You say kill them. Some of them I said. Ill be killing my own, if I get the chance. Its highly unlikely that Richard Branson will be in the GPO on Easter Monday. Why would you want to kill Richard Branson? Hes my boss. Dyou know him? No. My mother fancies the arse off him. She loves that ad with him in the truck. She doesnt have to work for him. Right sorry. We havent even looked at the minutes of the last meeting yet. So wed better get a move on. Or else the ladies here Objection. Sorry the comrades here will be thinking were just a bunch of windbags. Are you heading off to the Dail, comrade? I can stay for a bit. Good on you. You want more fighters? Sorry? Fernanda. Fernanda. Are you? Do you know any others? Two hundred. Two hundred? Au pairs? Yes. From Brazil? Yes. Gosh. Roddy Doyle 2016 Deputy Foreign Minister Ioannis Amanatidis is traveling to Geneva today, Monday, 29 February 2016, to participate in the 31st Session of the UN Human Rights Council. Mr. Amanatidis will present his views at the high-level panel discussion of the Human Rights Council on Tuesday, 1 March 2016, as well as at the Disarmament Conference. Mr. Amanatidis will also attend a Cypriot Permanent Representation event on the impact of the destruction of cultural heritage on human rights, and he will have a one-on-one meeting with the Permanent Secretary of the Cypriot Foreign Ministry, Ambassador Zenon. On the margins of the Session, Mr. Amanatidis will visit the Ecumenical Patriarchates Orthodox Center in Geneva, where he will meet with His Eminence Metropolitan Jeremias of Switzerland and His Grace Bishop Makarios of Lampsacus, as well as with members of the Greek associations of Geneva and Lausanne and educators at the Greek School. Australian Cardinal George Pell, who testified via videolink from Rome to the Royal Commission in Sydney from Sunday night to early Monday morning, also conceded that the Catholic Church "has made enormous mistakes" in allowing thousands of children to be raped and molested by priests. Two dozen Australian abuse survivors and their companions traveled across the globe to witness Pell's testimony in a Rome hotel's conference room, a significant show of accountability in the church's long-running abuse saga. And in a case of art imitating life, the testimony played out just hours before "Spotlight," about the Boston Globe's investigation into decades of priestly rape of children and systematic cover-up by the Catholic Church, won Best Picture at the Academy Awards. "I'm not here to defend the indefensible," Pell said as the hearing began. "The church has made enormous mistakes and is working to remedy those." He said the church had "mucked things up and let people down" and for too long had dismissed credible abuse allegations "in absolutely scandalous circumstances." The lead counsel assisting the commission, Gail Furness, questioned Pell about current Vatican efforts to address the crisis, as well as Pell's past in Australia, where he is accused of ignoring warnings when he was an assistant priest about Christian Brother Edward Dowlan, a teacher at St. Patrick's College in the Australian city of Ballarat. The deeply Catholic city has been devastated by disclosures about the huge number of abuse victims there, scores of whom killed themselves. Pell, now Pope Francis' top financial adviser, has repeatedly denied allegations that he ignored warnings decades ago that Dowlan was abusing students. Under questioning from Furness, Pell said he had heard "one or two fleeting references" to "misbehavior" by Dowlan in the 1970s "which I concluded might have been pedophilia activity." But Pell said he had not known victims' names, that there were large numbers of victims or that Dowlan's offending was general knowledge at the school. Dowlan was sentenced to six years in prison last year for abusing 20 boys. Pell also testified that he had been aware of a Christian Brother named Leo Fitzgerald who swam naked with students and said he had been told by parishioners that Fitzgerald also had a habit of kissing boys. But Pell said he had not believed the kissing to be sexual. "It was certainly unusual, but ... nobody said we've got to do something about this," Pell said. Pell's acknowledgement that he knew about such behavior is the closest he has publicly come to stating that he had even tangential awareness of the scandal playing out in Ballarat, where at the time he was in no position of church authority. His concession came as Furness presented evidence that many people around Pell knew about the abuse. "The sexual offending by Christian Brothers at St. Alipius school and St. Pat's school was known by a significant number in the community - would you agree with that?" Furness asked Pell. "I would agree that it was known to all the people whom you've mentioned, and they do constitute a significant number," Pell replied. The commission is investigating how Pell dealt with abuse allegations as a priest, educator and adviser to former Ballarat Bishop Ronald Mulkearns, as well as how the Melbourne archdiocese responded to allegations of abuse, including when Pell served as a Melbourne auxiliary bishop. Pell was a consultant to Mulkearns, who moved Australia's most notorious pedophile priest, Gerald Ridsdale, between parishes for years. Pell denies he was involved in transferring Ridsdale. Pell dubbed Mulkearns' handling of Ridsdale a "catastrophe for the church." He said he was a prime candidate for the Vatican's proposed tribunal for negligent bishops, although there is no indication the elderly Mulkearns would stand trial by the time the tribunal is operational. But Pell also acknowledged that he too had made mistakes in often believing the priests over victims who alleged abuse. "I must say in those days, if a priest denied such activity, I was very strongly inclined to accept the denial," Pell said. This is the third time that Pell has testified before the commission, but the current round has generated intense international attention because it is taking place near the Vatican. The commission allowed Pell to testify from Rome because he was too ill to travel home. Pell entered the hotel by a side door and still hadn't left more than an hour after the testimony ended at 2 a.m. Some Australian media covering the hearing reported that security agents pushed them back as Pell's Vatican car arrived. David Ridsdale, who was abused by his uncle, Gerald Ridsdale, said he was grateful that the horrors of Ballarat were finally getting global attention. Gerald Ridsdale is in prison after being convicted of multiple counts of abuse. "We're here to seek the truth. We're here to heal our city," David Ridsdale said. "We have the highest suicide rate among men in Australia. We have some of the worst drinking and violence problems. And it all stems from that abuse." In a statement Sunday, Pell repeated his support for the commission's work, vowed to meet individually with victims who had traveled to Rome and said he hoped the coming days "will eventually lead to healing for everyone." Anthony Foster, whose eldest daughter was repeatedly raped by priest Kevin O'Donnell and committed suicide, said it was "astounding and empowering for victims" that the commission was now sitting in judgment of Pell on a global stage. "I feel as though we haven't just brought it to Rome. We've brought it to the world," Foster said. The commission has no power to file criminal charges. But commissioners can note in their report whether they believe someone has broken the law and refer the matter to police and prosecutors. Pell's testimony will resume late Monday night. Thousands of pythons, far from their natural habitat in Southeast Asia, are believed to be stalking Florida wildlife in the beleaguered Everglades. The tan, splotchy snakes can be elusive in the wetlands, but Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officials say volunteer python removal programs and two state-sanctioned hunts since 2009 are focusing more eyes to the problem. "Whether they're fishermen or they're hunters or they're hikers or they're birdwatchers they're all looking for the python," said wildlife commissioner Ron Bergeron. "The success of the 'Python Challenge' has broadened out to thousands of people now." PYTHON CHALLENGE The longest python caught during the hunt that ran between Jan. 16 and Feb. 14 was 15 feet long. It was caught by a team led by Bill Booth of Sarasota. Booth's team also took home a prize for largest haul of snakes: 33 pythons. Over 1,000 people from 29 states registered to remove pythons from South Florida's wetlands. Daniel Moniz of Bricktown, New Jersey, suffered bites to the face, neck and arm from the 13-foot-8.7-inch python that won him a prize for the longest python caught by an individual. Faced with a winter layoff from his landscaping job, he completed the wildlife commission's online training and spent a month biking over 40 miles a day over levees through the wetlands, eventually bagging a total of 13 pythons. The longest one tried to swim away, until he dove on top of it. "I got it under control and stuffed it in a pillow case," he said. Frank Mazzotti of the University of Florida said the stomach contents of the captured pythons are still being analyzed, but so far the prey has included a fawn and a wood stork and other large wading birds. CUSTOM TROPHIES Once the necropsies are complete, the hunters can reclaim their dead snakes. About a third of have been turned over to Brian Wood of All American Gator in Hollywood. Half the hunters want him to make something from the pythons they caught a wall hanging, a pair of boots, or a purse for the wife at a fraction of the cost of a python clutch bearing a luxury designer logo. The other half are selling him their dead snakes for up to $150 apiece about the same price Wood pays for fully processed, tanned and dyed python skins imported from Asia. (In Wood's store, swatches show python skins dyed teal, rose pink, pale yellow and metallic gold, among other hues.) Wood also turned about 20 pythons caught during the 2013 Python Challenge into accessories. Pythons that once slithered through the Everglades now slide out of pockets as black-and-white billfolds or hang off arms as roomy purses. A couple now stride down sidewalks, transformed into pairs of Chuck Taylor sneakers. "It's kind of cool to be able to get something that's invasive, not something that's endangered," Wood said. He says he regularly supplies European luxury brands with alligator skins, but they aren't interested in Florida's pythons. The state's invasive snakes aren't tracked by international trade conventions, and the volume can't compare with the hundreds of thousands of python skins supplied each by about 10 countries in Southeast Asia. They're also looking for sustainable sources of python skins, while Florida just wants to be rid of its python supply. Unfortunately, pythons are not Wood's only supply of invasive species leathers. "I'm trying to promote this lizard we have that's taken over," he says, meaning iguanas, which his sons are hired to hunt in South Florida's urban and suburban environments. The man accused of murdering a Virginia police officer on her first shift is an active-duty Army staff sergeant assigned to the Pentagon. Ronald W. Hamilton, 32, is an employee at the Joint Staff Support Center, a Defense Information Systems Agency spokesperson confirmed to Fox News. Hamilton has been charged with capital murder of a police officer and first-degree murder for the death of Ashley Guindon, 28, and two counts of malicious wounding of a police officer and two counts of use of a firearm in commission of a felony. He's being held without bond ahead of an expected Monday arraignment. "This is a sad day for everybody in this room," Prince William County Commonwealth Attorney Paul Ebert said during a Sunday news conference. "It's a sad day for law enforcement." Officials said Hamilton shot and killed Guindon and wounded Officer Jesse Hempen, 31, and Officer David McKeown, 33, when they responded to a domestic disturbance call early Saturday evening. McKeown, a 10-year veteran of the force, was Guindon's field training officer. Both Hempen and McKeown remained hospitalized Sunday, though authorities wouldn't detail the extent of their injuries. "We are certainly led to believe their recovery will be full; they're not at risk of life-threatening injuries," Prince William County Police Chief Steve Hudson said. "But doctors have been very cautious to tell us there's a long road ahead." After Guindon, Hempen and McKeown were shot, additional officers responded and were able to secure Hamilton's surrender without further incident. When they entered the home, however, cops found Hamilton's wife, Crystal Hamilton, shot dead. The couple's 11-year-old son was also in the home, unharmed. He's currently in the care of family and friends. While Guindon was on her first shift as an officer, she had a long history with the unit, Hudson said. She interned with the department in the forensics service section while attending graduate school in 2011, and later applied and was accepted as a police officer. But during her initial field training period in June, she chose to resign for personal reasons, which Hudson did not disclose. Guindon, however, reapplied and the department rehired her earlier in February. She was sworn in the day before she was killed. "When she came back and reapplied, we were struck by her passion to do this job," Hudson said. "She did share with us, when we rehired her, she felt like she still wanted to do this job. She couldn't get it out of her blood. It was something she felt she could pour herself into." Guindon had also served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve for six years, Hudson said. Her death was just the fourth line of duty death for the department since 1970 and she was only the second officer to be killed during a felony crime in the department's history, the previous instance coming in 1990. The death of Ashley Guindon was just the latest tragedy to strike the family. Her father, David, committed suicide the day after he returned home from Iraq, where he served with the New Hampshire Air National Guard. He was buried with full military honors on Aug. 26, 2004. "He came home and took his own life," said Dorothy Guindon, Ashley's grandmother. Ashley was his only child. -- Fox News' Lucas Tomlinson and the Associated Press contributed to this report. Almost 100 people mostly from Haiti who were rescued from an overcrowded boat off the Florida coast had no food or water for... A group of 15 Democrat Senators have sent a letter to the Defense Department decrying a proposal that would change the employment status of commissary workers. "The undersigned Senators strongly oppose efforts to include in the Fiscal Year 2017 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) authorization for the conversion of Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) employees to non-appropriated funds employees," states the Feb. 25 letter to Defense Secretary Ashton Carter. "Finding savings by imposing such cuts on DeCA's modestly compensated workforce who provide a valuable service to military families and many of whom are veterans and military spouses would be an imprudent and misguided way to cut costs," it adds. A study commissioned by the agency and released in September proposed moving all commissary employees from the current general schedule or wage grade system to a so-called non-appropriated funds, or NAF, status. Because employees with the alternative status often earn less, have different benefits and can be more easily hired and fired, the system could save between $125 million and $225 million a year by changing systems, the Boston Consulting Group study said. Employees would convert to the new system over two years during which they would maintain their current pay levels, according to the report. Other benefits, such as their current retirement plans, would also move with them. New employees would be hired under the revised pay and benefits system. While the senators said they do support commissary reforms that might take it away from its current operating structure, they don't think those changes should put employees at risk. "We do not believe that this means that DoD should stop striving to achieve cost-savings in the provision of the commissary benefit," they wrote. "Still, give the undeniable and substantial benefit the commissaries provide to military families, it is imperative that we proceed carefully with any proposal that could harm the commissary benefit, including conversion of DeCA employees to non-appropriated funds employees." For 2016, the commissary system is projected to staff over 16,000 employees, including about 13,000 full-time workers. Nearly two-thirds, or 64 percent, of current employees have a military affiliation, with about 28 percent of those being military spouses, according to the congressional convened Military Compensation and Retirement Modernization Commission. The letter was signed by Sen. Patty Murry, D-Washington, Sen. Barbara Mikulski, D-Maryland, Sen. Christopher Coons, D-Delaware, Sen. Ed Markey, D-Massachusetts, Sen. Robert Casey, D-Pennsylvania, Sen. Benjamin Cardin, D-Maryland, Sen. Barbara Boxer, D-California, Sen. Bob Menendez, D-New Jersey, Sen. Richard Durbin, D-Illinois, Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio, Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Michigan, Sen. Tim Kaine, D-Virginia, Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Massachusetts, Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii and Sen. Al Franken, D-Minnesota. -- Amy Bushatz can be reached at amy.bushatz@military.com. Follow her on Twitter at @amybushatz. An Army captain and Sikh on Monday filed a lawsuit in federal court against the U.S. Army for the right to wear a beard and turban in accordance with his religion, according to his attorney. The complaint in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia from Capt. Simratpal Singh, a West Point graduate and Bronze Star recipient, comes after the Army signaled it didn't plan to make permanent an accommodation letting him wear a beard and turban, his attorney Eric Baxter said. "Capt. Singh had every expectation that the Army would grant his exemption [permanently]," Baxter said in an interview with Military.com. "And then suddenly on Friday night, he found out he's going to be forced to take extraordinary, nonstandard testing over the course of three days to determine if he's going to have to cut his hair and shave his beard to remain in the Army." The service has ordered Singh to report to Aberdeen Proving Grounds in Maryland on Tuesday morning to begin three days of tests to ensure he can safely wear a helmet and gas mask, according to Baxter, an attorney with The Becket Fund for Religious Liberty, a nonprofit, public interest law firm in Washington, D.C., which specializes in cases dealing with free expression of religious traditions. Singh, who is currently assigned to Fort Belvoir, Virginia, served in Afghanistan and was awarded the Bronze Star for his work there clearing improvised explosive devices, Baxter said. He also completed Ranger School and Special Forces training, he said. As a practicing Sikh, Singh wears a full beard and unshorn hair that he wraps in a turban. All are considered articles of faith in the Sikh religion. He isn't alone in wearing a beard in uniform -- tens of thousands of troops are allowed to have facial hair for medical or other reasons, Baxter said. For example, it's common for Special Forces troops operating in Iraq and Afghanistan to grow full beards. While Singh shaved his face for most of his Army career, he has been wearing a beard and long hair for the past four months without problem under a temporary exemption. The Army granted the trial waver in December, making the 10-year officer only the fourth Sikh to be allowed to wear his beard, long hair and turban while serving on active duty. "My Sikh faith and military service are two core parts of who I am," Singh said in a statement at the time. "I am proud to serve my country as an Officer and I look forward to being able to continue serving without having to give up my religious beliefs." Sikhs served in the U.S. military with beards, long hair and turbans from World War I until 1981, when it was changed in the first year of the Reagan administration by then-Defense Secretary Caspar Weinberger. In 2009, the Army began granting some exemptions. Baxter said Singh on Monday took and passed the Army's standard gas-mask test "with flying colors." Aberdeen, the Army intends on "doing testing that covers every imaginable scenario with his beard, and he's also required to undergo helmet testing, which is unheard of in the military," Baxter said. "So it's clear this is a pretext to create facts to make Capt. Singh's remaining in the Army more difficult," he said. "There's no reason for the government to treat him like a lab rat when he has an exemplary record and reputation over 10 years of service in the Army." Baxter said his client is asking the court to put on hold the Army order that he undergo the special tests. -- Bryant Jordan can be reached at bryant.jordan@military.com. Follow him on Twitter at @bryantjordan. U.S. cyber attacks and more frontline assistance from U.S. troops in non-combat roles than was used in Ramadi will be part of the Iraqi offensive to retake Mosul, Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. Joseph Dunford said Monday. Although the battle plan was in its formative stages, "the operations against Mosul have already started," Dunford said at a Pentagon news conference with Defense Secretary Ashton Carter. "In other words, you know, we're isolating Mosul even as we speak," Dunford said, and "it is not something that will happen in the deep, deep future." Dunford said that Iraqi Security Forces (ISF) and their U.S. advisors had moved to a staging area near Makhmour, about 60 miles southeast of Mosul, and U.S. cyber attacks were beginning to disrupt the communications of ISIS commanders in Mosul and their ability to control the militants defending Iraq's second largest city. Mosul was five times the size of Ramadi in southern Anbar province, which was retaken by the ISF with the backing of U.S. airstrikes, Dunford said, and an offensive to recapture a city of Mosul's size will inevitably require more involvement by U.S. for logistics, supply and bridging operations. Dunford said the U.S. was likely to "do more in Mosul than Ramadi just because of the order of magnitude of the operation up there in Mosul would indicate to me that we would have more U.S. support in Mosul than we did in Ramadi." The ISF has already presented its plan for retaking Mosul to Army Lt. Gen. Sean MacFarland, commander of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve and the lead U.S. commander in the region for the campaign against ISIS, Dunford said. Carter said that U.S. cyber attacks on the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) would be a major part of the operation to disrupt the group's "command and control, to cause them to lose confidence in their networks, to overload their network so that they can't function, and do all of these things that will interrupt their ability to command and control forces there, control the population and the economy." "So this is something that's new in this war," Carter said. In an interview with National Public Radio that aired Sunday, Carter said the cyber attacks were "strikes using cyber essentially as a weapon of war -- just as we drop bombs, there are cyber bombs" that can shut down communications. At the Pentagon Monday, Carter said "The methods we're using are new" without giving specifics. "Some of them will be surprising" when they eventually become known, Carter said. In the use of cyber against ISIS, "what we're trying to do and I think what the Secretary was getting at is we're trying to make life difficult for (ISIS), and we're trying to stay step ahead of them," Dunford said. "So we're trying to force them to make changes. We're trying to make them -- disrupt their communications, and then we can anticipate some of the adaptations they're going to make and be a step ahead of them, and that's -- that's what we're trying to do," Dunford said. Carter also confirmed for the first time that the so-called "Expeditionary Targeting Force (ETF)" of about 200 U.S. Special Forces troops was on the ground in Iraq and conducting operations. "The ETF is in position, it is having an effect and operating, and I expect it to be a very effective part of our acceleration campaign" to take back Mosul and Raqaa, the self-proclaimed ISIS capital in northeastern Syria, Carter said. In January, U.S. defense officials disclosed that about 200 special Operations troops were deploying to Iraq to conduct raids against ISIS leaders and carry out other secret missions, both in Iraq and Syria. "The only thing I'll say is the ETF is in position, it is having an effect and operating, and I expect it to be a very effective part of our acceleration campaign," Carter said. In his comments on Mosul, Dunford noted that the mostly-Kurdish Syrian Democratic Forces last week had ousted ISIS from the northeastern Syria border town of Shaddadi, in effect "severing the last major artery between Raqaa and Mosul." Last week, Marine Lt. Gen. Victor Stewart, head of the Defense Intelligence Agency, told Congress that it was unlikely that the ISF would be able to retake Mosul this year, but Dunford declined to put a time frame on the operation. "Honestly, I don't know," he said. "There's a lot of unknowns," Dunford said. "My point is that rather than try to project when this is over we ought to focus on setting conditions now to isolate Mosul. I would not at all be in the business of predicting when Mosul would be secure or seized." ISF generals and Iraqi Prime Minister Haider al-Abadi have repeatedly expressed confidence that Mosul would be retaken this year. Also last week, Army Maj. Gen. Richard Clarke, commander of Combined Forces Land Component Command-Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq, said preparations had reached the point where Kurdish forces and the ISF were coordinating on a line of attack into Mosul. "It's going to be tough to maintain those lines of communication and that logistics effort all the way up there" in the Makmour staging area, Clarke said, "but that's clearly where some of our advising-assisting, some of our logistics support can help them." In discussing "how the Iraqis may do this" to retake Mosul, Clarke said that the ISF could move out of the Makhmour staging area and "go completely to the Kurdistan region and be right on the footsteps of Mosul. Or they could go up through what you're describing as Baiji up what we call Highway One, almost due north. And what this gives them are multiple options." -- Richard Sisk can be reached at richard.sisk@military.com 12795398_10207686943705865_5541754682949338240_n.jpg Rendering of the proposed front of 151 W. Michigan Ave. (Courtesy of John Burtka) JACKSON, MI -- John Burtka's two proposed projects for Jackson could effectively double the number of market-rate apartments in downtown. While excitement surrounds the announcement of a new urban-grocery store, restaurant and nearly 50 new apartments, business leaders are saying Jackson is experiencing "unprecedented momentum." Plans for the former Daryl's Downtown and One Five One building, 151 W. Michigan Ave., call for a main-floor restaurant with the two top floors consisting of six apartments each. Before that, the owner of Grand River Brewery and Cherry Creek Winery announced plans for a four-story, 44,000-square-foot mixed-use downtown Jackson development project, including a grocery store and 30 apartment units on a lot located between Jackson and Blackstone streets off Louis Glick Highway. The site would fall on a former Consumers Energy parking lot the city of Jackson acquired after the company moved its headquarters. Related: Four-story 'urban grocery store,' apartment complex in the works for Jackson "The absence of market-rate apartments has been the biggest challenge for downtown," Allan Hooper, Anchor Initiative executive director, said. "We're trying to make demand by creating rent incentives to live downtown. "Downtown companies are showing they are committed to revitalizing downtown." Kincaid Henry, the group working with Burtka on each project, stated it is moving through the pre-development process and hopes to start work on Louis Glick Highway in July. Construction on 151 W. Michigan Ave. also could begin by summer. Hooper estimated there currently are about 30 market-rate apartments in downtown Jackson. He said he has been working with Burtka on both projects in a hands-off, troubleshooting manner. "Once the development goes up, I think you're going to see it spur on a lot of other development downtown," Burtka told the Brooklyn Exponent. Market-rate apartments are not restricted to income requirements in the way downtown's Armory Arts Apartments are. Any new development that creates momentum is good for everyone, said Tim Rogers, president/CEO of The Enterprise Group. He said downtown apartments have been an issue Hooper has been working on for a while, and that it's nice to have the combination of new construction and an old building being replaced. "I think it's fantastic. A lot of this has to do with the Anchor Initiative bringing awareness to downtown and bringing the right players together," Mindy Bradish-Orta, Jackson County Chamber of Commerce president/CEO, said. "The new construction on Louis Glick, in particular, is exciting because that's a focal point to downtown. "There seems to be a level of unprecedented momentum downtown right now, at least since I've been here." Hooper, who agreed with Bradish-Orta on downtown's momentum, said he is optimistic both of these projects will go through. Bradish-Orta said while the projects ultimately hinge on finances, investors and grants needing to align, but pointed to the community as having just as much responsibility. "Most importantly, it needs the community's support," she said. "This can't be another One Five One; people need to invest in and support these businesses to help get them over the three-year hump." This story has been updated with a statement by the company's CFO. GRAND RAPIDS -- Grand Rapids Plastics Inc. is eliminating 85 positions after a major customer, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles, pulled its business. FCA's decision was so abrupt the plastic injection molder filed a WARN notice on Feb. 24, saying the automaker's Feb. 18 announcement made it impossible to give the state or employees the required 60 days heads up. "Unfortunately, this sudden, dramatic and unexpected action was unforeseeable, without notice and outside of Grand Rapids Plastics' control," Tammy Baker, the company's director of human resources, wrote in in a letter to Michigan Workforce Development Agency. The notice was sent to the state under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act. In the letter, Baker said employees would be laid off in waves through mid-March from the firm's 80,000-square-foot facility campus in Wyoming's Kent Industrial Park. The reason for FCA canceling its contracts with Grand Rapids Plastics is still unclear, according to the supplier. "Grand Rapids Plastics reached out to FCA seeking clarification on FCA's intended actions, but FCA confirmed that all orders would cease immediately," Baker wrote. Despite the loss of the FCA contract, Grand Rapids Plastics continues to produce parts for customers, the company said in a statement released to MLive and The Grand Rapids Press on March 1. "With a skilled team of 125, we are making automotive components, consumer goods and other products for customers in - and beyond - West Michigan," Fred Cini, the company's chief financial officer, said in the statement. In the past six months, the company has taken a number of steps designed to fortify operations such as improving infrastructure, investing in technology and safety, and trying to expand the customer base. Last year, the company was hit with the state's biggest workplace fine in more than a decade. Michigan Occupational Safety and Health Administration fined the company $558,000 for safety violations tied to a worker's death. The 34-year-old worker was crushed in a horizontal injection molding press after another employee accidentally "cycled" the machine. MIOSHA inspectors determined the company failed to enforce use of a lockout on the machine and failed to properly train workers about the lockout. The 2015 MIOSHA report also noted myriad violations. Previously, Grand Rapids Plastics received more than $31,000 in penalties issued through MIOSHA between 2011 and 2014 for 10 citations. Founder Arthur J. Bott came out of retirement in 2003 to re-launch the company he started in 1976. It had fallen into bankruptcy after he sold it in 2001. In 2014, Bott, 80 at the time, was honored as an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year. In a 2014 interview with MLive and Grand Rapids Press, he said the company had a workforce of 300 employees and annual sales of $40 million. Shandra Martinez covers business and other topics for MLive. Email her or follow her on Twitter @shandramartinez. -1aa346f7146b8378 Midwest retailer Meijer donates about 6 percent of net profit to charities annually. WALKER, MI -- A Meijer executive's insistence on keeping a $20,000 donation of water filters to Flint anonymous wasn't out of the norm for the Midwest retailer. The family-owned company's approach to giving has always been to be low-key, Frank Guglielmi, Meijer's senior director of communications, told MLive and The Grand Rapids Press. "Meijer frequently supports local communities, charitable organizations and relief efforts and we just as frequently don't publicize those donations," said Guglielmi. "Our goal is to always keep the focus on the recipients mission, not our donation." Emails released by Gov. Rick Snyder revealed that co-CEO Mark Murray was contacted by one of Snyder's staffers about providing 1,500 water filters. Murray worked with Meijer vendor, Clorox, to acquire the filters at cost, and offered to cover the estimated $20,000 difference. But Murray insisted the donation remain under-the-radar. He said Meijer would pay the cost either with a donation of gift cards, or a direct donation to a nonprofit entity. "Given all the circumstances, we are not interested in any publicity. We want it to be clear that the state is providing these, not Meijer," Murray wrote in a July 26 email to Harvey Hollins. Hollins, who handled urban affairs for Snyder and was later the point person on the Flint water issue, appears to have reached out directly to Murray instead of going through the retailer's usual channels for a donation. Murray, who shares CEO duties with Hank Meijer, is the highest level non-family executive at Meijer. The Michigan-based retailer is the largest privately-owned company in the state, with estimated annual sales of more than $15 billion. He has long been a supporter of the Republican governor. Murray, a former state treasurer and education policy adviser to former Gov. John Engler, was part of Snyder's transition team when the tech entrepreneur was first elected in 2010. The request to Murray came as state officials were maintaining Flint water was safe to drink, despite complaints by residents about its murky color and smell. A few months after the filters were distributed in August, Snyder's team acknowledged dangerous levels of lead in the tap water going into many Flint homes and businesses. Earlier this month, Meijer issued a press release, announcing a $500,000 donation to three Flint community groups. So what changed? Meijer appears to have been responding to recent inquiries from employees and customers about how the retailer was going to help with the Flint water crisis. Hank Meijer said the company wanted to be vocal about its support of Flint. "At Meijer, we care about those who live in the communities we serve," said Meijer, who serves as the retailer's co-chairman, at the time. Before the financial donation, Meijer had also quietly contributed several truckloads of water through the state's Emergency Managements Operations Center to a Flint warehouse and was working with other groups on additional drop-offs as needed. Shandra Martinez covers business and other topics for MLive. Email her or follow her on Twitter @shandramartinez. WYOMING - The Wyoming-Kentwood Chamber of Commerce recently honored a longtime member and volunteer during its 35th annual meeting. Jerry DeGood, owner of Auto Finance at 2939 S. Division Ave., was named the Daniel VanDyke Volunteer of the Year Award winner for his work leading the committees to organize the Santa Parade and 28th Street Metro Cruise. As the head of the Santa Parade Committee, he also accepted the Daniel McLaren Committee of the Year Award on behalf of the committee. DeGood has been a member of the chamber for about 15 years. He has been a part of the Santa Parade Committee for many of those years, and this past year, stepped up to also direct the 28th Street Metro Cruise, which draws thousands of vehicles every August. "It was an honor to win the awards," DeGood said, adding, "The chamber is a good thing to be a member of--it does numerous things for the community." Chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Bob O'Callaghan praised DeGood at the meeting for his hard work. Other winners include Costco, at 4901 Wilson Ave. SW, named Retail Business of the Year; Amerikam Inc., at 1337 Judd Ave. SW, voted Manufacturing Business of the Year; Two Men & A Truck, at 912 47th St. SW, which earned Service Business of the Year. The Gerald E. Fessell Distinguished Service Award was given to Todd Duncan, corporate account manager for Consumers Energy, at 4000 Clay Ave. The awards ceremony took place during the chamber's annual meeting held at Distinctive Catering By Brann's, 4945 S. Division Ave. ANN ARBOR, MI -- With two shooting days left before the Ann Arbor deer cull ends, the city is reporting 61 deer have been shot and killed since last month. Another 10 deer were killed last week by U.S. Department of Agriculture sharpshooters hired by the city to kill up to 100 deer this winter. The city's administration originally planned to allow a three-month cull from Jan. 1 through March 31, but the Michigan Department of Natural Resources approved a permit that limited the cull to two months -- Jan. 2 through March 1. The city's administration also originally proposed allowing shooting daily in more than two dozen parks and nature areas. That caused a community debate, and ultimately city officials scaled back the scope so there would be no shooting on weekends, and the cull was further limited to 14 parks and nature areas. With those limitations, plus the fact that the DNR wouldn't permit shooting within 450 feet of people's homes without homeowner consent, this year's trial cull is likely to fall short of killing 100 deer. There are 23 shooting hours left between Monday and Tuesday and 39 deer left to kill to reach that target. The following 14 parks remain closed from 4 p.m. Monday to 7 a.m. Tuesday for shooting activities. Barton Nature Area Bird Hills Nature Area Black Pond Woods Bluffs Nature Area Cedar Bend Nature Area Furstenberg Nature Area Huron Parkway Nature Area Kuebler Langford Nature Area Leslie Park Golf Course Leslie Woods Nature Area Olson Park (dog park still open during regular hours) Ruthven Nature Area South Pond Nature Area Stapp Nature Area The cull will end Tuesday night, with sharpshooters permitted to shoot from 4 p.m. to midnight before the cull officially ends. The city last week released the results of a Feb. 18 aerial survey of the deer population, showing 202 deer were counted. That's up from the 168 deer counted the last time the city conducted a helicopter flyover in March 2015, despite the fact that dozens of deer were killed between the two counts. Ryan Stanton covers the city beat for The Ann Arbor News. Reach him at ryanstanton@mlive.com. -69041c442dd3af7b.jpg (File photo) A plan for a new medical marijuana provisioning center and grow operation received its first OK from Pittsfield Township. At its Feb. 18 meeting, the Pittsfield Township Planning Commission considered a proposal from Perfect Solutions, a company wanting to open in an 8,100-square-foot light industrial building at 4501 Platt Rd. Location of the proposed center. In a memo to the Planning Commission, Ben Carlisle, the township's planning consultant, noted only several small issues with the proposal, such as landscaping and hours of operation. Perfect Solutions planned to open at 7 a.m., but township ordinance doesn't allow medical marijuana centers to open until 8 a.m. Otherwise the business met most of the requirements of the township's recently-passed medical marijuana ordinance, though a license from the township clerk's office is still required. Craig Lyon, the township's utilities director, said the Commission asked staff to draft a conditional use permit request that includes language recommending the facility's approval. The applicant, Canton resident Matthew Baker, couldn't be reached for comment. According to plans submitted to the township, Perfect Solutions will employ nine to 12 people, including six caregivers. The plans also note caregivers won't grow more than the 72 plants allowed by state law, and only their patients can seek medical marijuana from them. Baker wrote in the plans that Perfect Solutions will "enhance public health" by operating a "Grade A, professional" facility that follows state law; contribute to the local economy by making renovations to a vacant property and paying township fees; and be a steady employer. "Perfect Solutions strives to be a recognizable, professional care provider who will uphold the highest standards possible in regards to our local responsibilities and our reputation within the Michigan medical marijuana community," Baker wrote. ANN ARBOR, MI -- What exactly would the proposed Ann Arbor Connector light rail system look like on the city's streets? Ann Arbor and University of Michigan officials working on the project say they'll be looking to the public to help answer that question as the university takes the lead on the next phase of study and conceptual design. "I think that is an important question that will get asked in the next phase, and part of what we hope the community input will help contribute -- both in terms of the refinement of the alignment and also the design of vehicles, the product that's used," said Sue Gott, university planner. The Ann Arbor Downtown Development Authority and Ann Arbor Area Transportation Authority also are partners on the project. DDA Chairman Roger Hewitt said the how the Connector loops through downtown and where it stops requires careful planning. "We're going to be very sensitive to the pedestrian character of the downtown and making sure that we don't harm that very vital asset," he said. Local leaders announced new details about the plans for the Connector last week, saying a light rail system connecting some of Ann Arbor's busiest areas and U-M's campus and medical center could be up and running within six to 12 years. But it's going to require hundreds of millions of dollars in capital funds. "It's important that we remain open minded about possibilities, so that as we continue to move forward we're very inclusive of good ideas, of the most advanced technology as that continues to emerge over time," Gott said. "And we're in a community where the city and the university have worked together on autonomous and connected vehicles, so the possibilities of how technology may evolve is ongoing, and that may also shape what this product looks like when it is eventually on the street." The next phase of study, which includes refining the alignment and technology to be used, is expected to take two years. Gott said that will help the project partners develop more reliable cost estimates that will be used to go after federal funding for the Connector. Eli Cooper, the city's transportation program manager, acknowledged the idea for the Connector has been discussed for more than a decade now. "These projects emerge on a glacial pace, and there's not a lot of celebration about the work of a glacier," he said. But there's some real momentum now, Cooper said. "There is and should be a level of excitement and enthusiasm that this vision is becoming more real on a day-to-day basis," he said. Early estimates contained in a new technical report suggest it could require $560-$680 million in capital costs to build the light rail system, plus a net increase of $3.36 million in annual operating costs, factoring in the elimination of some bus services that would be replaced with the new Connector rail line. The Connector is intended to provide faster, more reliable, more comfortable and sustainable transportation to 30,000-plus daily riders. "One nuance I think that's really interesting about this project, compared to other projects vying for federal funding, is a lot of the ridership already exists," said AAATA CEO Matt Carpenter. "It's not forecasted to appear in the future, especially on the two existing bus systems that run today, which also require a not-insignificant amount of money to operate .... So, with a higher-order system like this, you really can become much more efficient in a lot of ways at a community-wide scale." The latest Connector report includes projections showing 9 percent population growth and 20 percent job growth in Ann Arbor from 2010 to 2040. "It's difficult to imagine 20 to 30 years of new job growth and residential growth in the city, and what the roads might look like," Cooper said. "And the fact that this system will have its own exclusive running way and will have a guaranteed travel time ... I think people would like to have that today," he said. "But layer on a couple of decades of new human activity within this place that we call our community, our city, our campus, and you'll realize that this is quite an investment -- a down payment -- in ensuring the economic and community success for Ann Arbor for decades, if not generations, to come." There will be two public meetings to discuss the Connector project on March 24, one from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the downtown Ann Arbor library on Fifth Avenue, and another from 6-8 p.m. at the Traverwood Branch Library. Read more about the project Ryan Stanton covers the city beat for The Ann Arbor News. Reach him at ryanstanton@mlive.com. Chefs In Gloves Ann Arbor area restaurant inspections are in for the month of January, 2016. ((AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli)) The Washtenaw County Public Health Department's restaurant inspections for January, 2016 are in. Of the 160 restaurants and food service facilities inspected in January, 28 had two or more priority violations, which are the most serious violations that are most likely to lead to food-borne illness. Nine restaurants this month had three or more priority violations, and two restaurants had six priority violations. This month, 96 restaurants had zero priority violations, and 19 restaurants and institutions had no violations at all: Wendy's on Washtenaw Ave., Westminister Presbyterian Church, Biggby Coffee on Platt Rd., Burger King #1025 on Zeeb Rd., Chelsea Comfort Inn - Breakfast Center, Chelsea Wellness Center, Comfort Inn Conference Center in Chelsea, The Espresso Bar, First United Methodist Church in Saline, Immaculate Conception Church in Milan, Joe's Java @ St Joe's Mercy Hosp-Chelsea, Mighty Good Coffee at Arbor Hills, The Morning Owl Coffee Corp in Milan, Ollies Pizza in Manchester, Red Robin Gourmet Burgers - Ann Arbor, Ruby Tuesday #7613 in Saline, St. Paul Lutheran Church in Ann Arbor, Surf City Squeeze, Briarwood Mall, Treehouse in Chelsea, UA 190 - IBEW 252, and Yoggie's Frozen Yogurt. Below is a searchable table of January 2016 inspection results. You can search by restaurant name or city, or you can click the search button without selecting either restaurant name or city to get a list of all results. Each of the columns in the table is sortable by clicking on the column header. You can follow this link to search the Washtenaw County Public Health Department's restaurant inspection reports to see specific details about the violations noted by the inspectors. A description of the different types of violations can be found at the end of this post. Here are excerpts from the January restaurant inspection reports, with a focus on the restaurants with the largest number of priority violations: Sleep Inn & Suites (1230 Dexter St, Milan) had nineteen violations in the January report, six of which were priority violations. Several enamelware crock pots found in the facility for sausage gravy service etc. Enamelware is not approved for use in a food service establishment. To correct replace with stainless inserts or approved commercial food grade bag liners. You may also replace with NSF approved heat n serv or equivalent units. The PIC (person in charge) was not able to demonstrate knowledge in basic food safety including cold holding temperatures, dishwashing procedure, employee health and allergens. In order to operate a food service establishment safely, the PIC must be able to demonstrate knowledge in basic food safety. To correct enrol in a food safety course within 30 days . Observed food employee to be washing utensils improperly without sanitizing. In addition upon discussion employee was unable to properly detail the manual dishwash operation correctly. All food contact surfaces must be properly washed, rinsed and sanitized using a 3 step process and proper sink set up for immersed washing, rinsing and sanitizing to properly clean and sanitize all food contact surfaces. To correct implement the approved manual dishwash procedure as indicated above. Raw shell eggs found stored above numerous ready to eat foods including pastries, juices, cream cheese and butter. Raw shell eggs must be stored below ready to eat foods. Corrected by discarding the entire cooler at time of inspection (due to temperature violations). When the unit is restocked make sure raw shell eggs are stored on the bottom below and away from ready to eat foods. A paper with hand written instructions for checking hard boiled eggs was found sitting on top of the eggs. Do not put memo paper or anything else in direct contact with the food that might cause contamination of the food. Discontinue this practice immediately. Corrected by discarding all foods in the entire cooler including eggs due to temperature violations as previously indicated. Assorted potentially hazardous foods in upright cooler in the kitchen found at 44-46 degrees f and in the small cooler on the counter at 46-48 degrees f. Potentially hazardous foods must be maintained at 41 degrees f or below to minimize potential for bacterial growth and toxin production corrected by discarding all potentially hazardous foods at time of inspection., Cleaners found stored in cabinet with serving platters. Cleaner found on counter in prep area. Grill with propane tank found stored on top of refrigerator. Cleaners and chemicals and propane must be stored in a separate designated location away from food equipment and prep areas. To correct relocate the cleaners to an approved location away from food equipment and prep areas. The plumbing is not maintained according to law in the kitchen. All plumbing is required to meet law and code. To correct repair plumbing as discussed. Follow-up inspection on 1/26/16: Sausage gravy found in domestic fridge/freezer at 46 degrees f. Assorted potentially hazardous food in the small upright cooler on the counter at 45-47 degrees f. Potentially hazardous foods must be maintained at 41 degrees f or below to minimize potential for bacterial growth and toxin production. Corrected by pic discarded assorted potentially hazardous food and sausage gravy Li's China One (1047 Emerick St., Ypsilanti) had 18 violations in the January Report, six of which were priority violations. The facility is using a shop press that is not approved as food equipment to press cabbage. This is not an approved food grade equipment. In addition it is leaking hydraulic fluid which can contaminate the food. The water run off is also being discharged onto the floor and into a floor drains. Discontinue use of this equipment immediately and provide an approved cabbage press. Correct as indicated above. Unapproved insecticide found in the facility. Discontinue use of this product, as it is not approved for use in a food service establishment. Correct as indicated above. Observed utensils and dirty pans in food prep sink waiting to be cleaned. Employee indicates dishes are washed in this sink. This in not a correct process for manual dishwashing. Use a 3 step process of wash, rinse and sanitize in the 3c sink for proper manual dishwashing, making sure utensils are sanitized after cleaning. Correct as indicated above. Raw foods found improperly stored in walk in cooler with chicken above beef and eggs above vegetables and unorganized. Raw foods have to be stored so that the food requiring the highest cook temperature ie chicken is on the bottom and beef above that and then eggs then vegetables and ready to eat foods. This storage is required to minimize potential for contamination of foods not requiring the same cook temperatures. Correct by reorganizing the cooler as discussed, indicated above and per the chart on the wall by the cooler. The facility reuses bags that raw sprouts and raw beef are delivered in for storage of other foods.. This is prohibited. These bags are not reusable. Discontinue this practice immediately to minimize potential for cross contamination of foods you are storing in these bags. Correct by discarding all of these bags immediately and providing approved food grade storage bags. Raw chicken in batter sitting out at room temperature at 53 - 62 degrees f awaiting prep. Potentially hazardous foods must be maintained at 41 degrees f. If not immediately prepping and then cooking place back into cooler to maintain temperature control. Corrected by finishing cook process. Unclear as to how long chicken was out but not more than 1 hour. Egg rolls found sitting out at room temperature at onset of inspection. Pic placed back into the cooler when inspector walked in. Egg rolls were temped at 45 degrees. Corrected by egg rolls being discarded at time of inspection. Sabor Latino (211 N. Main St. Ann Arbor) had 12 violations in the January report, four of which were priority violations. Observed chips being stored in non-food grade containers (Rubber made bins). Materials that are used in the construction of UTENSILS and FOOD-CONTACT SURFACES of EQUIPMENT may not allow the migration of deleterious substances or impart colors, odors, or tastes to FOOD and under normal use conditions shall be: (P) (A) Safe; (P) (B) Durable, CORROSION RESISTANT, and nonabsorbent; (C) Sufficient in weight and thickness to withstand repeated WAREWASHING; (D) Finished to have a SMOOTH, EASILY CLEANABLE surface; and (E) Resistant to pitting, chipping, crazing, scratching, scoring, distortion, and decomposition. To correct discard all chips bins and provide food grade and use containers. Observed the following dish washers at less than 10ppm chorine: 1. Kitchen dish machine. 2. Bar dish machine. A chemical SANITIZER used in a SANITIZING solution for a manual or mechanical operation at contact times specified under # 4-703.11(C) shall meet the criteria specified under # 7-204.11 Sanitizers, Criteria, shall be used in accordance with the EPA-registered label use instructions. To correct repair both machines to provide 50-100ppm chlorine. Partial correction: 1. Kitchen dish machine was adjusted and provided 50ppm chorine. Not corrected: 2. Bar dish washer. Observed the following potential cross contamination in the two door reach-in cooler by the cook line: 1. Raw chicken with and next to ready to eat foods. 2. Raw chicken with raw beef. 3. Raw chicken with raw fish. 4. Raw beef with ready to eat foods. 5. Raw eggs with ready to eat food. FOOD shall be protected from cross contamination by: (1) Except as specified in (1)(c) below, separating raw animal FOODS during storage, preparation, holding, and display from: (a) Raw READY-TO-EAT FOOD including other raw animal FOOD such as FISH for sushi or MOLLUSCAN SHELLFISH, or other raw READY-TO-EAT FOOD such as fruits and vegetables,(P) and (b) Cooked READY-TO-EAT FOOD; (P) (c) Frozen, commercially processed and packaged raw animal FOOD may be stored or displayed with or above frozen, commercially processed and packaged, ready-to-eat food. To correct retrain staff on raw food storage and organize cooler with raw foods stored by final cook off temperatures. Partial correction: Cooler was rearranged by final cook off temperatures. Not corrected: Retraining of staff. Observed food not reheated to 165f for 15 seconds and in a steam table designed for hot holding and not reheating. Food was a meat based sauce at 112F. Reheating for hot holding as specified under ## (A) - (C) of this section shall be done rapidly and the time the FOOD is between 5*C (41*F) and the temperatures specified under ## (A) - (C) of this section may not exceed 2 hours. (P) To correct all food that is to be reheated shall be reheated to 165F for 15 seconds before placing into the steam table. Corrected: Food was reheated on the cook top to 190F. Follow-up inspection 2/05/2016: Corrected: Observed food grade containers in use. Corrected: Observed noted item sanitizing at 50ppm chlorine. Corrected: Observed all items stored properly. Dibellas Old Fashioned Submarines (904 W. Eisenhower Pkwy) had 15 total violations, three of which were priority violations. Found a hose connected to the hose bibb above the mop sink faucet which lays in the mop sink without back flow prevention device. To correct install a hose bibb vacuum breaker on hose bibb. Observed live ants on the floor under the handsink by the baking area. To correct keep areas clean, in good repair, and have pest control company treat areas. Found stacked containers of raw beef stored next to covered containers of ready to eat (rte) food, cooked sliced chicken on the bottom shelf in the walk in cooler. Pic corrected by having employee move chicken to another shelf away from raw meats. Pic has been instructed to monitor and ensure RTE food is not next to or below raw meats. Found time/temperature control for safety (TCS) food, cartons of milk 52 f in the sliding glass door reach in cooler in the front counter area. Pic has been instructed not to use this cooler to hold TCS food until repaired/replaced to hold TCS food at 41 f. Found TCS food, various sandwich lunchmeats (ham, turkey, beef) and cheese slices 49 to 50 f, stored above fill line of containers in the top portion of the right 2 door prep top cooler. Note: TCS food below fill line of containers were 41 f. Pic corrected by having employee reduce levels of food in containers as they were just restocked. Pic has been instructed to monitor and ensure containers are not overfilled and food is held at 41 f. Mediterrano (2900 S. State Street #7) had 13 violations in the January report. Three were priority violations. Found the quat dispenser water supply line connected to cold water supply and quat sanitizer flowing from dispenser at 49 f below minimum temperature of 75 f. To correct provide quat sanitizer that is at least 75 f, that is connect quat sanitizer dispenser to hot water supply. Found raw beef patties and calamari stored next to ready to eat foods (gyro meat and cooked meat slices) on the lower shelf in the 1 door glass reach in cooler. Pic corrected by relocating ready to eat food on shelves above raw meats. Found a pan of raw beef steaks stored next to ready to eat foods, requiring little to no cooking (broccoli and onions) in drawer of the 4 drawer under the counter cooler. PIC corrected by relocating raw beef steaks away from ready to eat foods. Found an opened, but tied bag of Greek orzo contaminated with live beetles and surrounding dry food items in the same storage tub contaminated with beetles. PIC states these items are old and no longer used, and had employee discard all foods contaminated with beetles. PIC has been instructed to monitor and ensure food is protected and discarded if old and contaminated. Nirmal Enterprise (2876 Washtenaw, Ypsilanti) had 13 violations in the January report. Three were priority violations. The following food contact surfaces were found to be soiled to sight and touch and are not being cleaned at the required frequencies: the interior of the rice warmer, the cutting boards, the rolling, pin, the prep tables, the interior of the prep unit and shelves in the prep unit, the can opener. Foor contact surfaces, equipment and utensils are required to be clean to sight and touch and on a cleaning frequency as indicated above to minimize potential for contamination of food. To correct clean now and place on a more frequent cleaning schedule as required by the food code. Burn spray found stored with food on shelf above the prep area. Discontinue this practice and keep burn spray and first aid supplies stored away from prep areas and foods to minimize potential for contamination of food and prep areas. Corrected by discarding the burn spray at time of inspection. Palm Palace (2370 Carpenter Rd., Ann Arbor) had 11 total violations in January, three of which were priority violations. Found the drain line of the basement ice machine draining into a receptacle without air gap. Found the drain line of the produce walk in cooler draining into a receptacle without air gap. To correct provide and air gap of at least 1 inch from the drain lines and rim of the receptacle. Use a chlorine test kit and found dishwashing machine not chlorine sanitizing dishes. Employee corrected by first discovering chemical feed tube was not completely in holder and therefore could not reach chlorine sanitizer, changed chemical sanitizer bucket, primed machine, ran several cycles, and found dishwashing machine was chlorine sanitizing dishes. Violation corrected. Pic states he had checked dishwashing machine earlier and it was working properly. Found an opened case of raw shell eggs stored next to and above ready to eat food in the basement produce walk in cooler. Pic corrected by relocating raw shell eggs to meat walk in cooler. Found containers of raw shell eggs stored above and next to ready to eat food in the upper right portion and lower left portion of the 4 door sectional reach in cooler in the back kitchen. Pic corrected by discarding all eggs. Found packages of raw shrimp stored above ready to eat food in the 3 door prep top cooler on the cooking line. Pic corrected by relocating shrimp to bottom shelf and placing ready to eat food on top shelf above raw shrimp. Pic has been instructed to monitor and ensure raw shell eggs and raw shrimp are not stored above or next to ready to eat foods in all coolers. Follow-up inspection 1/26/2016: On follow up inspection found the drain lines of the ice machine and produce walk in cooler draining into receptacle with an air gap of at least 1 inch. Pic states plumbing lines have been adjusted to provide air gaps. Violation corrected. On follow up inspection used a chlorine test kit and found dishwashing machine sanitizing dishes. Pic states he had machine checked and tubes have been replaced. This violation was corrected on routine inspection and reverified on follow up. Big Boy Of Chelsea (1610 S. Main St., Chelsea) had ten total violations, and three were priority violations. Observed improper storage of raw animal food: 1) raw fish stored next to raw chicken container at cookline. 2) container used to dredge raw chicken stored above raw fish. 3) rolling rack holding raw hamburgers stored next to shelf holding ready-to-eat food (i.e.- cut melons) without shielding/protection. To correct - 1) & 2) store raw chicken and container to dredge it below and separate from raw fish; 3) provide shielding or separation between raw beef rolling rack and ready-to-eat food shelf. * correction will be evaluation at follow-up inspection. Observed employee medicine stored in basket on top of microwave oven at cookline. To correct - remove medicine from cookline and store in designated area that will not risk contamination of food areas. * correction will be evaluated at follow-up. Observed no handwashing when changing tasks: 1) cookline: staff placing raw hamburgers on grill with gloved hand, then replacing with new gloves without handwashing. 2) dishwashing area: staff handling soiled dishware then handling clean utensils without handwashing. To correct - hands must be washed after handing raw animal food, soiled dishware or other sources of possible contamination. Train staff. MDARD education handout provided. * discussed observation with PIC who agrees to train staff. Correction will be evaluated at follow-up. Serra's D.Q. L.LC. (1801 Washtenaw, Ypsilanti) had ten total violations, three of which were priority. Observed two containers of raid located in the rear storage area. Raid is not approved for use in a food service establishment. Corrected by pic discarding unapproved raid. Observed containers of chili that were marked 1/4 past the consume date of 1/10. The maximum consume date is seven days from when the food was prepared or the can/container was opened. If not consumed, the food must be discarded. Correct by pic discarding expired food. Observed the employees removing their gloves and donning new gloves without hand washing. Employees must wash hands before donning gloves to eliminate the potential for contamination. To correct, wash hands in between changing gloves. Where can I see the inspection results? Washtenaw County posts links to all inspection reports for restaurants, University of Michigan foodservice establishments and facilities inspected by the State of Michigan, such as grocery stores, food processing plants and convenience stores. Click here for access to all Washtenaw County food service inspections! What do the violations in the reports mean? Washtenaw County Public Health's Environmental Health Division is responsible for inspecting all food service establishment operations in Washtenaw County. These food service establishments are regulated under the State of Michigan's Food Law and Michigan Modified Food Code. * Priority violations are the most serious. Correcting these eliminates or reduces a problem directly associated with foodborne illness. Examples include improper food temperatures and lack of hand washing. * Priority foundation violations are problems that can lead to a priority violation. Correcting these problems may keep priority violations from occurring. Examples include not having an appropriate food thermometer, not having sanitizer test strips and not having soap or paper towel at a hand sink. * Core violations are related to general sanitation and facility maintenance. Examples include dirty floors and improper facility lighting. Priority and priority foundation violations must be corrected immediately at the time of inspection or within 10 days. Core violations must be corrected within 90 days of the inspection. How frequent are inspections? Routine inspections take place twice per year (or once per year if the business is only open seasonally). Routine inspections are typically unannounced. Each inspection is a snapshot in time, and conditions found at the restaurant are not necessarily the conditions that could be found in the restaurant at other times. Sanitarians (otherwise known as health inspectors) ask many questions about the menu, operations and procedures to get the best possible idea of the day-to-day conditions of the restaurant. Environmental Health conducts additional inspections if a foodborne illness or other complaint is reported. What if I have a complaint? Environmental Health responds to general restaurant complaints as well as foodborne illness complaints. Please call our office at 734-222-3800 to file a complaint or to report a suspected foodborne illness. Washtenaw County Public Health promotes health and works to prevent disease and injury in our community. Visit us online at http://publichealth.ewashtenaw.org. Jessica Webster covers food and dining for The Ann Arbor News. Reach her at JessicaWebster@mlive.com. You also can follow her on Twitter and on Google+. FENTON, MI -- A pot-bellied pig given up by its previous owner has a new home and some new porcine siblings. Linda Paige Sunday, Feb. 28, adopted the black-and-white pig named Chester. The pig's previous owner surrendered him to a Lansing-area rescue group in January. Chester was later transferred to the Humane Society of Bay County, as a veterinarian the agency works with has experience with pigs. Chester's story was reported by The Bay City Times in a Jan. 29 article. In its wake, the Humane Society received about a half dozen adoption applications for Chester, said Stephanie Beiser, the group's foster coordinator who housed Chester. Paige said a friend of hers saw the article and sent her the link, prompting her to put in her adoption application. Paige already had two adopted pot-bellied pigs -- Felix and Oatie -- and took in her first pig about 16 years ago. "I just love pot-bellied pigs," Paige said. "When I first met (Chester), he had his nose up in the air and touched my nose with his. He's just fun." Paige and a friend picked up Chester Sunday. "He slept in the car all the way home," she said. "When we got home, he just fit right in. We had fun with him." Paige said she keeps her three pigs in a barn. Though they're in the same building, Felix and Oatie are currently separated from Chester by a fence. "They can't get to him until they know each other better," she said. "They can communicate through the fence." In the coming weeks, Paige will gradually acclimate Chester to the other two pigs. Chester is about 7 months old and weighs 35 pounds, but he's likely to get much bigger. Pot-bellied pigs originated in Vietnam and they have a reputation for being highly intelligent, curious, social and affectionate. They can weigh between 80 to 160 pounds, with the average being 120 pounds, according to www.pigplacementnetwork.org. The site also reports that oftentimes, people take in the pigs but become overwhelmed by their size and end up abandoning them. Beiser in January said that only applicants with pig-owning experience would be considered to house Chester. While under the Humane Society's care, veterinarian Dr. Kent Williams of Animal Alley Veterinarian Hospital, 7319 Tittabawassee Road in Saginaw Township, sterilized Chester. In December, Bay County Animal Control took possession of a black pot-bellied pig named Wilbur that was found wandering the streets of Auburn, a leash hanging from his neck. On Tuesday, Dec. 22, The Times published an article on Wilbur's plight and within hours, he was adopted by Frankenlust Township residents Rick and Janis Doud. "He'll be loved and taken care of," Paige said of Chester's future with his new family. The tradition of Leap Year began more than 2,000 years ago to "leap" the 365-day calendar year ahead one day almost every four years to keep up with the solar year, which is actually 365.2425 days long. Roman Emperor Julius Caesar is considered the father of Leap Year, according to the History Channel. Leap Year went into effect in 45 BCE to help keep the calendar aligned with the months. Pope Gregory VIII tweaked that system in 1582, because "leaping" ahead a day every four days doesn't quite balance the calendar. So Gregory ruled that "leap year occur in years divisible by four, except for those divisible by 100 and not divisible by 400. In effect, that means that 97 out of every 400 years are leap years, including the century years 1600 and 2000 but not 1700, 1800 and 1900," according to the History Channel. Here are some other things you might not have known about Leap Year: 1. Feb. 29 -- Leap Day -- is traditionally the one day that women may ask men to marry them. The Irish claim the practice began in fifth-century Ireland when St. Brigid of Kildare complained to St. Patrick that women had to wait for men to propose. St. Patrick decreed the women could propose on this one day in February during the leap year, according to IrishCentral.com The tradition was taken to Scotland by Irish monks. 2. Queen Margaret of Scotland set fines for men who turned down marriage proposals on Leap Day. In parts of Europe, it's customary for men who refuse a Leap Day wedding invitation to buy the woman 12 pairs of gloves, to help her hide her lack of a wedding band. 3. In Greece, there is a superstition that it's unlucky to wed in a leap year, particularly on Leap Day. 4. The town of Anthony, Texas, declares itself the official Leap Year Capitol, and celebrates with gatherings for Leap Year babies. 5. In recent times, U.S. presidential elections and the Summer Olympic Games occur during leap years. 6. There is an Honor Society of Leap Year Babies only for those born on Leap Day. 7. "Leaplings" born on Leap Day can celebrate their birthdays in non-Leap Years on either Feb. 28 or March 1. There is no common legal definition for when a leapling reaches certain birthday milestones in non-Leap Years. For example, a Leap Year baby can turn 21 on either Feb. 28 or March 1, depending on the laws of their country. While there apparently is no U.S. Law regarding Leap Day babies, they may be presumed to legally drink, vote, join the military, etc. on March 1 in non-Leap Years, according to John Reitz, a professor of law at the University of Iowa and an expert in administrative law. Days after the city agreed to pay $100,000 to settle a lawsuit for the shooting of a leashed pet dog by a Detroit police, officers will receive formal training on a variety of animal issues. The Michigan Humane Society plans to conduct the training with officers Tuesday. The animal rescue agency intends to "educate law enforcement officials on several key issues, including: animal behavior in the field, Michigan animal law (including the legal implications when dogs are shot by law enforcement), dog fighting awareness, animals as evidence, and human violence and animal cruelty," according to a Michigan Humane Society statement issued Monday. In the lawsuit settled last week, Detroit Police Officer Darrell Dawson, while investigating a report of shots fired and attempting to enter private property, notified dispatch of his intent and then proceeded to shoot twice and kill a pet mastiff named Babycakes. It was secured by a steel cable and another officer was able to enter the yard by jumping a fence and avoiding the dog's path. "In other words, Defendants could have and did obtain access to Plaintiff's back yard without having to go past Babycakes, who was securely tethered to the South side of Plaintiff's residence - the other side of the house," the lawsuit alleged. "... It was not necessary, reasonable or legal for Defendant Dawson to shoot Babycakes because Babycakes was secured by a steel cable leash to the South side of Plaintiff's house." Detroit police initially called the dog shooting reasonable. Detroit musician Allison Lewis called an officer's actions hasty when he pulled a gun and shot her unleashed dog last May at Navin Field, the former site of Tigers Stadium in Corktown. "Millie did not charge at him, she was not barking or growling," Lewis said. "He did not take any other action, say anything, and when I saw him reach for his gun, I pleaded for him please not to do anything, she is not aggressive ... " Police said otherwise, that the dog was aggressive, growling and charging the officer. Detroit police regularly shoot animals if they fear potential danger or injury while performing other police operations. Children and neighbors watched as the bodies of three shot pit bulls were dragged from a Detroit home following a drug raid in 2014. By Marion V. Day For MLive.com When a tornado or flood destroys a community, a coordinated disaster relief team and volunteers from various walks of life rush in to provide shelter, food and comfort, and help rebuild lives. While what Flint has experienced is a man-made disaster, the impact from a psychological perspective is very similar. The resulting trauma takes a toll on people's abilities to cope and function in their day-to-day lives. Instead of occurring suddenly, the Flint water crisis built up over time. One revelation built on another until the extent of the damage became known. Similarly, the negative psychological impact built over time. One of the hallmarks of a trauma for a child or an adult is a sense of helplessness in the face of a threat. For some of the population, the sense of helplessness stems from concerns about the water quality being ignored and dismissed by those in power. The lack of recognition or acknowledgement of the crisis by officials led the public to frustration and anger. Those who accepted false assurances regarding the safety of the water might have experienced shock and anger as the dangers became apparent and their sense of trust was shaken. They fear they inadvertently might have been complicit in the harm done to their children, family members and themselves. One mother stated privately to me, "I believed them. I gave the water to my children to drink and I bathed them in it." Underlying the anger about their sense of betrayal is the shock at being deceived by authorities and a deep resulting sadness. Adults, who have in the past demonstrated significant personal strength when confronted with challenges, are finding their ability to cope greatly diminished. Ultimately, the result can be what is known as a trauma response. The trauma response is a reaction to an unexpected or harmful event and has symptoms that might include an increased sense of powerlessness, depression, inability to concentrate and increased feelings of anger. Some individuals might have thoughts of leaving the area altogether, and others might be tempted to find relief in substance abuse or other activities. Significantly, whatever affects the family and the home affects the children in that home. Service providers for the community (teachers, therapists, home visitors, medical personnel) also can experience an emotional reaction. When they hear the stories of harm done and identify with the victims of the water crisis, they might be subject to what is called secondary or vicarious trauma. A sense of cynicism, hopelessness and loss of personal purpose can result. This is doubly so for those providers who also live in the areas of water contamination. When the U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Vivek Murthy, addressed more than 300 health care providers recently in Flint, he emphasized the stress this crisis has created for the residents and the trauma that can occur. Medical and mental health care providers are aware of trauma-informed care and can use this approach going forward. In response to the psychological needs of the community, the Genesee Health Systems has convened a "Community Resilience Group" which is developing plans for care. Community forums on trauma response, educational measures and counseling for those in need would help the population understand that their responses are normal. This could have the effect of improving resiliency and coping abilities. Those who serve the population also should be supported. Debriefing sessions within agencies and organizations and a process called "reflected supervision" with a trusted colleague can help in these circumstances. So, while the leaching pipes are replaced and health care is provided, we must not forget about the psychological healing of this community. Marion V. Day is an infant mental health consultant and provides supervision to those who work in this field. She lives in Flint Township. CADILLAC, MI - Donald Trump will return to Michigan four days ahead of the state's presidential primary election. The frontrunner for the Republican nomination to the White House is going to campaign at 1 p.m. Friday, March 4, at the Wexford Civic Center in Cadillac, according to an eventbrite invitation posted by the campaign. Doors will open at 10 a.m. RELATED: 6 one-liners from Donald Trump's Grand Rapids rally Trump is the leading candidate for the GOP nomination heading into this week's "Super Tuesday," when convention delegates in 12 states including Texas are up for grabs. Michigan is the most delegate-heavy state for Republican candidates between Super Tuesday and March 15 primaries in Florida and five other states. Voters in Michigan will cast primary ballots Tuesday, March 8. Trump and other Republican hopefuls Ben Carson, Ted Cruz, John Kasich and Marco Rubio also are expected to be in Michigan on Thursday, March 3, for a debate in Detroit. RELATED: Republican debate in Detroit: What you need to know Trump a few days before Christmas was in Michigan for a rally at The DeltaPlex outside Grand Rapids where several hecklers were removed from the audience. Matt Vande Bunte writes about government and other issues on MLive. Follow him on Twitter and Facebook. MONTMORENCY COUNTY, MI -- An argument between two fathers at a bus stop led to one of the men pointing a pistol at another, causing a lockdown at a Northern Michigan school district. State police and Montmorency County sheriff's deputies were called about 7:15 a.m. Monday, Feb. 29, after a witness at the bus stop in Hillman called 911. Police said the men got into a verbal confrontation and one of them drew a pistol near a bus stop, where both of them had a child waiting for the bus. State police said the armed man then returned to his home and left the pistol there while he took his child to Hillman Elementary School. Deputies contacted Hillman Community Schools officials and responded to the elementary, where the suspect remained until police escorted him out. The suspect did not bring a firearm onto school property, school officials said in a letter sent to parents. Police said the man, whose identity was not released Monday, doesn't have a concealed pistol license and was not justified in pointing his gun at the other man. He was arrested and awaits arraignment. District buildings were placed on lockdown during the investigation. No one was allowed in or out of the schools for a period of time. Investigators said there was not any direct threat toward the school or its students. The lockdown had been lifted as of noon. Angie Jackson covers crime and breaking news for MLive. Email her at ajackso3@mlive.com, and follow her on Twitter. Five major business associations have written to the US administration, asking that it does not renew its authority to maintain sanctions on Myanmar for another year when the program expires in May. Myanmar is sanctioned under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA), which provides a legal framework for the US Treasury to blacklist certain individuals or companies. The country has been subject to this program since 1997 for its large-scale repression of the democratic opposition, according to the US Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC). Earlier this month five groups wrote to Secretary of State John Kerry, Secretary of the Treasury Jack Lew and Commerce Secretary Penny Pritzker, asking that they allow the IEEPA to lapse when it falls due for renewal in just over two months. If the US allowed the IEEPA to lapse, assuming no further action, all executive sanctions programs would immediately expire, including all Myanmar names on the Specially Designated Nationals (SDN) list, as well as the import ban on jadeite and rubies. The letter was signed by AmCham Myanmar Chapter, the National Foreign Trade Council, the US-ASEAN Business Council, the United States Chamber of Commerce and the United States Council for International Business. It notes that the US business community has strongly supported efforts by US President Barack Obamas administration and Congress to engage Myanmars government and advance reforms. The concrete measures the US has taken to normalise the relationship - including lifting the import ban, easing bans on investment and financial services, opening a USAID office, extending the Overseas Private Investment Corporation and Export-Import Bank support, and other measures - have brought real and tangible benefits to the people of Myanmar, it said. Improved relations with the US have been instrumental to the progress made by Myanmar in reforming key institutions and improving transparency, it said. The letter also highlights Myanmars November 2015 elections, which it deems largely free and fair, with few reported irregularities. The elections were widely seen as an important benchmark for determining the future of the US-Myanmar relationship. That benchmark has been met and it is now incumbent upon the United States to continue to advance the normalisation process, the letter said. There needs to be a clear pathway and an efficient process to remove individuals and entities from the Specially Designated Nationals list or to license US companies to engage in business with them. If necessary, other sanctions programs should be calibrated to target only individuals and entities of concern, it added. Last year, U Win Aung and his two companies, Dagon International and Dagon Timber, became the first to be taken off the SDN list, prompting speculation that other blacklisted individuals and companies would also be removed. However since then, no other business or individual has been removed from the list. In December, OFAC issued a general licence allowing trade to pass freely through Yangons blacklisted Asia World Port Terminal and other key infrastructure hubs with an SDN connection, in a move aimed at easing trade bottlenecks. Nevertheless, remaining US sanctions are holding back investment into Myanmar, and place US companies who want to invest in the country or support engagement at a unique disadvantage, the letter said. The time has come to examine the utility of the remaining sanctions and to map out a vision for the future of the relationship, it said. The upcoming expiration of sanctions authority under the IEEPA provides just such an opportunity. Last May, Mr Obama renewed the IEEPA program for another year, citing concerns over conflict and human rights abuses, particularly in ethnic areas, as well as the continued role of the military in the countrys political and economic activities. If the US administration does not renew the IEEPA program, as a practical matter there would be potential complications from certain other restrictive measures, said one sanctions expert who preferred to remain anonymous due to the sensitivity of the subject. For example, because IEEPA licensing authority would expire along with the IEEPA prohibitions, the special measures against Burma imposed under Section 311 of the USA Patriot Act of 2001 would go back into effect with respect to correspondent accounts at Burmese financial institutions, while currently there is licensing interaction between the respective regulatory provisions, they said. And there could be other such interrelation of authorities that has not yet been fully investigated. The administration has consistently said it foresees no major sanctions changes in the near future, and incoming US ambassador to Myanmar Scot Marciel told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that he would not anticipate, nor recommend any dramatic change, as reported by Reuters last December. Kanbawza Bank signed yesterday with the Yangon Stock Exchange (YSX) to run settlement and clearing operations for Myanmars first modern bourse. Last April the bank was chosen from among six local private banks who applied for the role to the Securities and Exchange Commission (SECM) of Myanmar. It will be responsible for delivering payments for the sale of stocks, once trades have been agreed on. If the broker or dealer representing the buyer cannot immediately make a payment, it will be KBZs responsibility to provide the funding short-term. The bank has the widest network among private banks and has the digital integration necessary for a settlement bank, officials said. The SECM earlier said it plans for the Yangon Stock Exchange to use a modern Delivery Versus Payment system, where the cash payment to the seller comes before or at the same time as the security goes to the buyer. The settlement bank must ensure it has sufficient liquidity to support these transactions and the infrastructure in place to complete exchanges, including digitally linking to different trading and banking systems. KBZ senior managing director U Nyo Myint said the company has been preparing its IT infrastructure for the past eight months and is ready to launch the system. We will work as a service provider together with the 10 securities companies to offer a fast and accurate service with full security, he said. The bank will offer payment and settlement services while the YSX will manage the transfer of securities, U Nyo Myint said. We have built a custom network comprising Daiwas technology and our IT infrastructure, he said. The exchange is 49 percent owned by two Japanese companies Japan Exchange Group, the operator of Tokyo Stock Exchange and Daiwa Securities Group, which signed an agreement with state-owned Myanma Economic Bank (MEB) on December 23, 2014. According to YSX officials, one more bank may be granted a licence to operate as a settlement bank at a later stage, depending how quickly the market develops and matures. A KBZ subsidiary, KBZ Stirling Coleman was the first of the 10 securities firms to receive a licence. AYA Trust Securities, CB Securities and the Myanmar Securities Exchange Centre have also received licences and launched their services, while the other six companies are still preparing. KBZSC is working with First Myanmar Investment and Myanmar Thilawa SEZ Holdings to prepare the companies to debut on the exchange. While the exchange launched at the end of last year, no companies have yet listed. Surbana Jurong has added Yangons first underground pedestrian walkway, an airport and a special economic zone to its list of Myanmar projects, the Singaporean infrastructure consultancy announced this week. Shwe Taung Development awarded Surbana Jurong the contract for the 30-metre underpass last week. The countrys first underground walkway will be located on Pyay Road and connect the Practicing High School, the Yangon Institute of Education and the Junction Square shopping centre. Construction will take six months after which Shwe Taung will donate the project to YCDC, said a spokesperson for that firm. Surbana Jurong has been operating in Myanmar for three years. The engineering design contract for the underground pedestrian walkway takes its project tally to 40, the companys CEO for international operations Teo Eng Cheong told The Myanmar Times. The underpass joins Hanthawaddy International Airport in Bago Region and the Kyaukphyu special economic zone (SEZ) in Rakhine State on Surbana Jurongs list of Myanmar projects. The firm has partnered with a consortium led by Chinese firm CITIC, which won two tenders to develop the Kyaukphyu SEZ, and worked on the master plan, infrastructure and port plans. The announcement in December that the CITIC-led consortium had been chosen came less than a week after over 100 civil society groups demanded that the project be suspended until after the new government takes power. They objected to a lack of transparency in the tender process and demanded more consideration for local peoples welfare. Asked whether he was concerned about local protests, Mr Cheong said it depends on what the protest is about. We should not take protests lightly, he said. We want to be sensitive to the demands and concerns of people in the area, and we should address those concerns. But protests are also part of doing business in many countries, not just Myanmar, he said. I prefer to look at it from the bigger picture. Is the project good for the country, for the community? An economic zone in the western part of the country would open up the economy and improve exports, he said. It can only be good for Myanmar. He believes Myanmars transition is going smoothly and the country will continue to open up to trade. Surbana Jurong worked with the current government on affordable housing projects and helped draw up an affordable housing masterplan for Yangon with the Ministry of Construction in 2012. Myanmars government has struggled to keep the cost of affordable housing down. The Ayeyarwun and Yandana Housing projects developed under the masterplan recently drew public criticism because of higher than expected costs. This is a common challenge all over the world, said Mr Cheong. The most effective solution is to ensure that the economy grows, people have jobs and incomes continue to rise. Construction costs can only be pushed down so far. But rising incomes will mean greater access to loans with which to pay for housing, Mr Cheong said. Regardless of construction cost, the volume of affordable housing will make it a big part of any governments budget. The budget for the coming fiscal year will cover only a small chunk of Yangons housing requirements. At the other end of the spectrum, Surbana Jurong has several luxury housing projects in Yangon under its belt, including Polo Club Asia Residence and Golden Valley Residences. Mr Cheong said it was important for governments to consider the balance between the two. Singapore has set aside much of its land for public housing, which today accommodates more than 80 percent of the countrys population, according to Singapores Housing & Development Board. But does Yangon have the balance right? The government needs to make the best of its space, resources and income, he said. You have to take note that at this stage Yangon is already fairly built up, said Mr Cheong. Its not a blank sheet. Singapore's Italian food franchise, Pastamania, has officially opened its doors in Yangon adding more pasta to the menu of foreign food now on offer in the city. The last few years have seen an influx of international competition in Myanmars food and beverage industry, from the arrival of American fried chicken giant KFC to the string of Mexican restaurants that have popped up downtown. Now, Pastamania with more than 50 restaurants across nine countries has moved into Yangon to boost the citys noodle portfolio to include more Italian pastas. Data from Daiwa Institute of Research has put the Myanmar restaurant market at nearly US$3 billion, according to a statement released at the restaurants February 27 launch. Commonwealth Capital, the Singaporean investment firm behind Pastamania, chose to partner with a subsidiary of a local group Bawga Theiddhi to establish its first Pastamania eatery in Myanmar. The restaurant took about one year to plan and set up, with investment eclipsing US$1 million. Ko Aye Chan Ko Ko, managing director of Pastamania franchisee Root of Asia, said he ate Pastamania every day when he was studying in Singapore. I felt that it was the right time to bring Pastamania here to educate the people that pasta is the new rice. That idea may go against the grain, and for now has a long road to critical mass, as pasta options are limited compared to rice dishes popular at Yangons curry stands and tea shops. Mr Lim said Pastamania, as a pasta focused food and beverage brand, now wades into a blue ocean a business term for a wide-open market. However, Myanmar has started shedding its status as an untapped market. Yangon is now dotted with international restaurant chains. Kentucky Fried Chicken landed in Myanmar last year, and now has four restaurants across the city. We are now a long way from the sorry old MacBurger days when Yangon couldnt sustain even a single fast food eatery of a reasonable standard. Looking around, today there are dozens, said Glenloch Advisory partner Nicholas Farrelly. Im sure that there will be more to come. Pastamania has plans to build five or six outlets over the next few years, according to Mr Lim. Its a very good sign that international companies are still looking at Myanmar as a promising location for their businesses, said Mr Farrelly. Key issues related to investment, intellectual property, supply chain, staffing and customer demand have been largely worked out. McKinsey Global Institute said in a 2013 report that the countrys consumer class those with enough income for discretionary spending could jump to 19 million people within 15 years, which would mean a spike in consumer spending to US$100 billion. However, a large part of the countrys population would still find it hard to pay for pasta at a premium price. Most Myanmar people would struggle to justify paying the high prices, said Mr Farrelly. The average ticket price for a menu item at Pastamania Yangon is K9000-10,000. But the popular chains still do very good trade, largely from local customers. At least in Yangon there is no shortage of people with disposable income. The big question for the government and investors is how they go about quickly building up the purchasing power of the masses. In theory, a cashed-up aspirational class is good for business and good for democracy. Min Zayar Oos painting of a group of butt-naked kids heading for a bath in a river has taken the top prize at the seventh annual Tun Foundation painting competition and exhibition yesterday in Yangon. The panel of judges agreed that the honesty, unity and true nature of children portrayed in Min Zayar Oos artwork was deserving of first place and the K300,000 (US$245) cash prize. In total, 10 awards were given, with the second-, third- and fourth-place artists receiving K250,000, K200,000 and K15,000, respectively. All winners also received a gold coin. U Thein Tun, chair of Tun Foundation, said the significance of the annual ceremony is to encourage advancements in Myanmars art scene. The quality of paintings this year in Myanmar was slightly lower than in previous years, which may have been a result of reluctance to push the boundaries, U Thein Tun said in his ceremonial address. The quality in Vietnam and Indonesia, however, has continued to improve. The Tun Foundation therefore has two ambitions: to improve the quality of paintings and to preserve thabin [a traditional form of music and dance] in Myanmar. It is our hope that this competition will continue to promote improvements in the arts. Around 200 enthusiasts and invitees attended the show at the Myanmar Banks Association in Yankin township to see the 10 winners works of the 340 entries. Myanmar's first female hip-hop vocalist, Sandy Myint Lwin, celebrated 10 years of performance on February 27 by hosting her own one-woman show in Myaw Sin Kyun Island, Kandawgyi Park, Yangon. For the past month, the star has been posting invitations and pictures of her preparations on social media. When the performance finally got under way, two hours late at 7pm, the audience, each of whom had paid K6500 for a ticket, were warned not to crowd the star. Shes so excited and has high hopes for the show. Please dont cluster in front of the stage, said Tin Zar Moe Win, a traditional dancer and friend to the star. Backed by the Uranium dance group, she kicked off with Nga Thamee Lay Taw Lite Tar (How clever my daughter is), her first hit from 10 years ago, about girls who pretend to be smart. After doing some more numbers with hip-hop stars J-Me and Ar-T, she invited girls from the audience to join her on stage. I need your help. Six cool ladies, please come on up, she said. It took some persuasion, but in the end six women did take seats on the stage. The audience grew a little restive, appearing ill at ease as six men then emerged from the back of the stage and performed to the next song. Some audience members seemed to find their performance unsavoury. After five more songs, Sandy Myint Lwin invited Lazy Club to take over while she changed her costume backstage. On-stage projectors showed video clips of her charity concert and other activities. Eaint Chit, Ya Tha, Kyaw Htut Swe, Thiri Swe and other famous hip-hoppers played in support, and guitarist Naing Zaw of Lazy Club played along as Sandy Myint Lwin performed about 20 rap songs with the band. Then the tracks switched to DJ music and she jumped down from the stage to sing and dance with audience members until the show ended at a sedate 10pm. Some audience members were left wanting more. The guitar sometimes drowned her out, said one. We hoped for a bigger audience, said Moe Moe, a hip-hop fan from Bahan township. A ship, two rescue boats and a fleet of drones will be deployed in the Andaman Sea on March 3 to comb for migrants and monitor for smuggling vessels and respond in case of a crisis. The Migrant Offshore Aid Station (MOAS) was launched by an American millionaire and entrepreneur in the hopes of preventing migrants and refugees from drowning in the Mediterranean as they attempted to cross into Europe. On February 26, founder Christopher Catrambone announced in Bangkok that the project is now being extended to Southeast Asia. For a minimum of four weeks the crew of MY Phoenix will be on the lookout for Bangladeshis and Rohingya Muslims from Rakhine State being smuggled into Thailand and Malaysia. The task of the MY Phoenix will be to observe and analyse irregular movements at sea, Mr Catrambone said in a statement. Our aim is to generate a better understanding of the movements by the refugees and migrants and be ready to assist in cases where there is an imminent threat to loss of life. Since 2012, nearly 200,000 asylum seekers and economic migrants have fled Bangladesh and Rakhine State to embark on a boat journey from the Bay of Bengal to Southern Thailand. The well-worn route is considered three times as deadly as the Mediterranean crossing; the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) estimates that 12 people die for every 1000 who cross. Last May, amid a crackdown that interrupted the regional smuggling channel, 5000 refugees were abandoned at sea. Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia all initially launched pushback policies. More than 70 people are believed to have died before reaching land during the crisis, while others suffered beatings, sexual abuse and malnutrition, the latter resulting in cases of beriberi. With the mantra no one deserves to die at sea, the MOAS team aims to avert any repeat crisis this year. Rohingya have faced abuses for decades and untold numbers have died at sea, said Matthew Smith, executive director of Fortify Rights, which is assisting the MOAS crew in data collection and monitoring efforts. Until the root causes are addressed in Myanmar, were going to see men, women and children risk their lives in perilous journeys at sea. The UNHCR believes few Rohingya who are officially referred to by the Myanmar government as Bengalis have so far left camps to embark on the perilous voyages this year. But the World Rohingya Association has estimated that an exodus 200,000 strong could be prompted this year in the wake of an election disenfranchisement that saw nationalist politicians mostly hostile to Muslims sweep Rakhine State. The National League for Democracy has so far shown little appetite to address the needs of the states Muslim population. The MOAS team plans to use long-range drones to scour the sea night and day to identify vessels transporting large groups of people above or below deck. Ships in distress will be assisted by rescue boats. Should the MY Phoenix rescue any migrants, it is unclear where will be able to disembark, as Thailand, Indonesia and Malaysia have previously been unwilling to act as a safe haven. Fortify Rights said in a statement that regional governments had been engaged about the project. A MOAS spokesperson said the Phoenix has carried previously up to around 400 refugees. As we have already successfully done in the Mediterranean and the Aegean seas, we are cooperating and participating in an ongoing dialogue with regional stakeholders to see how our mission can be best performed. We are leaving no stone unturned in our mission to mitigate loss of life at sea, said MOAS director Martin Xuereb. Refugees in Kyaukme are heading home during an apparent lull in hostilities, a Shan State government official says. Fighting flared in northern Shan State on February 7 and while tensions remain high between the belligerents the Restoration Council of the Shan State/Shan State Army-South (RCSS/SSA), the Taang National Liberation Army (TNLA) and the Tatmadaw clashes have only been sporadic in the past week. The Tatmadaw has instructed both the RCSS and TNLA to pull back to their territorial boundaries prior to the fighting, and warned that it would launch a clearance operation against them if they refuse. U Khun Thein Maung, the Shan State governments finance minister, told MPs on February 26 that about 20 percent of the almost 4000 IDP in Kyaukme had taken the opportunity to return home. Many wanted to save their remaining possessions from looting and assess the damage, he said. Battles in the conflict zones have ceased currently and some people in the refugee camps are going back to their homes to check the situation, and recover and save their possessions, he said. Between February 23 and 26, a total of 763 people including 267 men and 469 women left the camps, according to government figures. They were each given K10,000 as well as between one and three packages of rice, with the amount depending on the size of the family, the minister said. Colonel Soe Moe Aung, the state minister for border affairs and security, said 3972 people, including 1579 men and 2393 women, had been displaced in Kyaukme. More than 1000 people are also believed to have been displaced further to the north of Kyaukme due to clashes in Namhsan and Namkham townships. U Sai Ohn Myint, member of a committee assisting IDPs in Kyaukme, confirmed yesterday that some had returned to their homes. Refugees began returning home two or three days ago, but only those who live in areas under RCSS or Tatmadaw control, he said. They think these areas are safe enough now. In contrast, refugees have continued to arrive from areas at the centre of fighting between the TNLA and the Tatmadaw. U Sai Ohn Myint said the latest group arrived on the night of February 27 from the Pan Nang area of Namhsan. They followed a group of 80 people who arrived three days earlier, following clashes in Pan Nang on February 23 during which the TNLA said the Tatmadaw used two helicopters and artillery against its forces. TNLA communications officer Mai Aik Kyaw said more fighting had broken out yesterday morning in Namhsan at about 11am, with the exchange lasting about 90 minutes. He said he was concerned about the risk of further fighting, as the Tatmadaw had been building up its forces in northern Shan State in recent days. On February 27 and 28, it transferred an estimated 3000 troops from Lashio to the front lines, including 1000 to the Kokang region of northeastern Shan State. The situation is quiet on the front lines but its not safe for anyone to return home, he said. Fighting can break out at any time because the situation is not stable. The two Shan government ministers were speaking in response to an urgent proposal tabled by an MP the previous day. In the proposal, U Sai Tun Nyan, the Shan Nationalities League for Democracy MP for Kyaukme township constituency 2, called on the Union and state governments to take action to stop the fighting. Villages and schools are deserted and peoples lives are at risk. I urge the state government or Union government to act now to ensure the security of the people, he said. The MP condemned the use of civilians as human shields, the destruction of homes, the theft of animals, the abduction of monks, and the arrests and murders of villagers. The proposal was seconded by fellow SNLD MP Daw Nan San San Aye, representing Hsipaw constituency 1. The Shan State government and the Union government must act to protect more than 4000 people [who have been displaced], she told MPs. U Sai Tun Nyan did not identify the armed groups responsible for the crimes he listed. The TNLA has been accused by the SNLD and a Shan armed group, the Shan State Progress Party/Shan State Army-North, of executing seven civilians in a village in Kyaukme township on February 7. The RCSS, meanwhile, has been accused of laying landmines around villages and looting homes. It has also rejected accusations that it is cooperating with the Tatmadaw to grab territory from the TNLA. But U Aung Tun, a representative of Namsan constituency 2 and a member of the TaArng (Palaung) National Party, said in his response to the proposal that the fighting had broken out because the RCSS sent forces from southern into northern Shan State from mid-September. He said Kyaukme, Namhsan and Namkham had been peaceful before the current fighting broke out. Translation by Kyawt Darly Lin An ethnic armed group has been forced to deny that it signed up to the nationwide ceasefire agreement (NCA) in order to cash in on a hydropower deal. The Karen National Union (KNU), one of eight armed groups that signed the peace pact last October, said it would not proceed with the proposed Baw Ka Hta dam in Bago Region if local residents objected. The KNUs economic committee has formed a company, Thoolei Co Ltd, which signed an agreement with the Ministry of Electricity on February 18 in Nay Pyi Taw to prepare a pre-survey report on the dam within two years. The dam is said to be capable of producing 160 megawatts of electricity. The power to be generated by the dam, on the Baw Ka Hta River in Kyaukkyi township, Taungoo district, would reportedly be distributed throughout Bago Region and Kayin State. Saw Tar Doh Moo, the chair of Thoolei, said in a press conference on February 26 that the pre-survey process would cost US$1 million, but no budget for the entirety of the project had yet been drawn up. We will meet residents and explain about the dam. If they dont accept the project, we will not implement it. We are not pursuing this project for ourselves, but for the Karen people, whose interest we serve, he said. Saw Tar Doh Moo sought to dispel rumours being circulated on the internet to the effect that the KNU had signed the NCA as part of a quid pro quo involving the dam deal. We signed the NCA for the benefit of the Karen people, not for the project. The Karen people need to develop like any other ethnic people. Electricity is one of the main requirements of our country, so we decided that we should pursue this hydropower dam project, he said. But local civil society groups say residents in the area are opposed to the project and question the KNUs intentions. Ma Ta Pee Tha, head of the Peace Life Development Group, said KNU officials met residents on February 2 to discuss the project. At the meeting, locals made clear their opposition to the project. But the KNU continued with the dam pre-survey and signed the [memorandum of understanding with the government]. The residents have lost belief in the KNU, he said. Other members of the KNU leadership could not be reached for comment yesterday. Saw Tar Doh Moo, who chairs the groups economic committee, said the group plans to meet residents and civil society groups again in an attempt to win their support. According to Thoolei, the Baw Ka Hta dam project was first conceived by the U Nu government, which had considered it in 1954. Armed conflict in the region had made it impossible to proceed. After signing of the NCA, a lot of companies were prepared to invest in Kayin State. So we want to implement the project ahead of other companies, said Saw Tar Doh Moo, adding that compensation problems did not arise because there were no farms or village lands in the vicinity of the dam. According to the Directorate of Investment and Company Administration, Thoolei was resistered on June 17, 2013, with an office on Strand Road in Ahlone township. It has three listed directors: U Saw Nal Dah Htoo, U Saw Eh Say and U Saw Eh Htoo. Three interfaith youth activists in Mandalay have been hit with two-year prison terms with hard labour for charges that rights groups have criticised as politically motivated. The volunteers promoting religious tolerance were arrested last July in connection to visiting a blacklisted ethnic armed group, as well as alleged immigration violations. After postponing a hearing earlier this month due to a last-minute judge swap, the Chan Aye Tharzan court found the activists guilty and cited photos posted to social media as evidence in the February 26 verdict. Ko Zaw Zaw Latt, 28, Ma Pwint Phyu Latt, 34, and Ko Zaw Win Bo, 22, were convicted of violating section 13(1) of the 1947 Immigration Emergency Provisions Act for entering the country illegally. The section carries a minimum six-month term and maximum of five years. It is totally unfair. This law was enacted only for foreigners. Yet even Chinese nationals [arrested for illegal logging and immigration violations] were sentenced to six months in prison but were released after eight days. It shows the whole judiciary is ruined, said Ko Zaw Zaw Latt. The Muslim and Hindu activists are part of interfaith group Thint Myat Lo Thu Myar (Peace Seekers) founded by a Buddhist monk following the outbreak of communal violence in Meiktila in 2013. The immigration charges stemmed from a group trip to Chin State where a photo allegedly showed the activists across the border in India. Last September, a sayadaw testified for the defence about the interfaith work that was conducted during group trips. The Burma Muslim Association accused nationalist Buddhist group Ma Ba Tha of instigating the charges and targeting the activists due to their work promoting religious tolerance. Ko Zaw Zaw Latt is also being charged with unlawful association after a 2013 trip to Laiza, Kachin State, where the interfaith group met members of the Kachin Independence Organization (KIO). Photos posted to Facebook showed Ko Zaw Zaw Latt posing with alleged members of the KIO while holding a rifle. There were also photos of Ko Zaw Zaw Latt meeting with Buddhist monks, and some social media users suggested he should be arrested for insulting religion. Police Captain Myo Min Hlaing from the Chan Aye Tharzan township police filed the complaint against Ko Zaw Zaw Latt, Ma Pwint Phyu Latt and Ko Zaw Win Bo as well as five other members of the interfaith group under article 17(1) of the Unlawful Associations Act and article 13(1) of the Immigration Emergency Provisions Act. One other defendant has since been arrested and a warrant has been issued for the remaining four activists. Thailand-based NGO Fortify Rights, which has followed the case closely, called the trial against the activists a sham. It said the charges were politically motivated and should be dropped. Chan Aye Tharzan Township Court will hear the unlawful association case on March 9. Translation by Zar Zar Soe Mandalay General Hospital has successfully resumed performing kidney transplant operations, officials have announced. Though the first such operations were performed in 2001, none had been performed since 2004. The hospital said last week that it had successfully performed 14 kidney transplants in all. We did two transplants in 2001, two more in 2002 and three in 2004. Since we resumed last year, we have done a total of 14 transplants, said hospital chief Dr Tin Tin Moe. Three surgical teams perform two transplants a month, at government expense. All surgical wards collaborate in kidney transplant operations. We have to make a wide range of detailed checks for donors and patients before we undertake surgery, said Dr Tin Tin Moe. Dr Khin Maung Kyaw, head of the Department of Nephrology, said both kidney donors and patients were in good health. The donors are proud of themselves. We will continue to give them post-op check-ups, he said. I feel very well. I want to thank all the surgeons for transplanting a kidney from my sister, said Daw Cho, of Kanbalu township, Sagaing Region, who underwent her six-hour operation on February 16. Dr Tin Tin Moe said the hospital had also prepared the surgical instruments required for performing a liver transplantation service. Translation by Zar Zar Soe Rumours swirling about the possible nomination of military or former military officers as chief ministers of Rakhine and Shan states continued to swirl despite, or perhaps because of, efforts by the National League for Democracy to quell them. Following a 90-minute meeting of the NLD central executive committee yesterday, spokesperson U Tun Tun Hein told The Myanmar Times the committee had discussed party discipline and complaints. He refused to be drawn on anything more substantive. There are so many rumours now - for instance, rumours about the amendment of section 59(f). Were not going to stop these rumours by commenting on them, he said, referring to the article of the constitution that bars NLD leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi from becoming president. Under Myanmars constitution, the incoming NLD-backed government will have the power to appoint all 14 chief ministers, regardless of whether they hold a majority in the state or region. The latest rumour has it that Rakhine States former chief minister, U Maung Maung Ohn, a retired brigadier general, could be headed back to Sittwe as the next chief minister, while retired Lieutenant General Aung Than Htut, a former commander of Northeast Region Command, is in line to become Shan States chief minister. Both men are members of the Union Solidarity and Development Party, raising the question of what, if anything, the military is prepared to give the NLD in return. Yesterdays meeting, held at the residence of Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, was attended by all 15 central executive members. U Tun Tun Hein, calling it a regular meeting, said there was no discussion of the formation of the cabinet or the presidential nomination. The party has until March 17 to name its two presidential nominees. The next CEC meeting is scheduled for later in the week. Translation by Zar Zar Soe In a rare display of disapproval but one that could be seen more often starting next month military MPs in the Pyithu Hluttaw stood in a body to protest remarks made by a National League for Democracy MP. The confrontation on February 26 came amid a debate over recent privatisations that has infuriated the government, and prompted presidential spokesperson U Ye Htut to suggest the outgoing administration does not need to be accountable to parliament. Military MPs took a stand, literally, to object to a statement made by NLD MP for Sidoktaya township, Magwe Region, U Kyaw Aung Lwin, on February 26 about the Letpadaung copper mine - a project that involves a military holding company. The MP was speaking in support of a proposal by his NLD colleague, Daw Khin San Hlaing, calling for scrutiny of an apparent fire-sale of government assets in the closing days of the existing administration. On February 25, she had listed a number of cases that had arisen since the November elections, involving several government departments and state and regional governments, in which government assets were being disposed of by a fast-track procedures that appeared to by-pass the necessary arrangements and negotiations. Her proposal was approved by 271 votes to 138. During the debate, U Kyaw Aung Lwin raised the issue of the Letpadaung copper mine. We know there was agreement before the new contract for all production from Letpadaung to be split 50 percent for the Wanbao company, 40pc for Myanma Economic Holdings Limited and just 8pc for the state, he said. Speaker U Win Myint intervened to ask the MP to confine his remarks to the original proposal, but U Kyaw Aung Lwin continued to speak. Lieutenant Colonel Moe Kyaw Oo told parliament that U Kyaw Aung Lwins statement would damage the state and its citizens, as it was based on incorrect information. Other military MPs showed their support for his position by rising to their feet. The Letpadaung project was now being implemented in accordance with recommendations made by the investigation commission led by NLD leader Daw Aung San Suu Kyi, the military MP told parliament. Under the new contract, 51pc of the profits would go to the state and 49pc to military-owned Myanma Economic Holdings Limited and Myanmar Wanbao company, a subsidiary of a Chinese arms manufacturer. The company also plans to invest US$2 million a year for rehabilitation after the project ended, he said. As recommended by the investigation commission, the project had already spent more than K15 billion on compensation to former landowners, community development and electricity supply, the construction of schools, roads and drainage channels, and a water supply project, and had made contributions to village social associations, he said. Moreover, the mine no longer concerns President U Thein Seins administration because production is scheduled to resume only in May, when the new government will be in office, Lt Col Moe Kyaw Oo added. Nine NLD MPs seconded Daw Khin San Hlaings proposal. Opposing, Union Solidarity and Development Party MPs argued that pressure should not be put on the present government while it was managing the transfer of power. U Saw Tun Mya Aung, USDP MP for Hpapun township, Kayin State, said, This proposal will make the transfer of power more difficult. The government snubbed a parliament invitation to respond to the proposal, but in subsequent days used state media to put forward its response, addressing concerns expressed about the sale of fuel stations, a lease near Yangon General Hospital and the Yangon new city tender. On February 26, an interview with Minister for Information U Ye Htut was carried in state media in which he claimed that the outgoing government did not need to be accountable to the NLD-controlled parliament. Whether the incumbent Union government should be accountable to the second parliament or not is an issue to be reviewed according to the constitution, he said, adding that the government had decided to suspend its cooperation with parliament on responding to questions and proposals. On Daw Khin San Hlaings proposal, he suggested it was not in the national interest and was contrary to the truth. U Ye Htuts argument appears to rest on the fact that U Thein Sein, who formed the current government, was chosen by the parliament that was elected in the 2010 general election. It convened for the last time on January 29, before parliamentarians elected in November 2015 were sworn in on February 1. The constitution makes no mention of government only being accountable to the parliament that selected the president. Independent political analyst Richard Horsey said it was bizarre to suggest the constitution can be read this way. Translation by Zar Zar Soe Health officials are declaring the latest nationwide drive against polio a success, though results are still coming in from some remote areas. As of February 26, the Department of Public Health was saying it was not yet ready to announce complete official results, although some regions reported reaching more than 95 percent of targeted children. Dr Than Htun Aung, director of epidemiology, said, The campaign is still proceeding in some parts of the Wa and Naga regions in Sagaing Region because of transportation problems and restricted access to vaccine stores, he said. Coverage was complete in Rakhine State, said Dr Thaung Hlaing, head of the states public health department. He said on February 25, Rakhine State targeted 481,599 children and we immunised 522,395 children in 17 townships. We had assistance from volunteers and NGOs in the [displaced persons] camps. Last year, two cases of polio were confirmed in Maungdaw township, Rakhine State, in April and October. Dr Aung Myat Htay, head of the Department of Disease Control in Yangon Region, said coverage in the region had reached 95.9pc that is, 530,020 children out of 552,939 in 45 townships had been vaccinated, making the program a success. He added that despite difficulties in reaching some remote parts of the region, This nationwide campaign was completed in Yangon Region within three days. The region is now completing its report for submission to Nay Pyi Taw. The vaccination campaign was conducted from February 20 to 22, to mark National Immunisation Day, benefiting under-fives around the country. Dr Tun Myint, Ayeyarwady Regions health chief, claimed success with 98.5pc coverage, including in remote townships such as Thapaung, thanks to help from NGOs. We vaccinated once a day, at 6pm, instead of twice, because of the heat, he said, adding that the campaign was therefore extended until February 26. It once made sense to talk, simply, about a country named Burma, where the people spoke Burmese, and some of them were called Burman. Since the assertion of Myanmar as the dominant organising term, there have been all sorts of linguistic acrobatics to make the term fit for the sometime Myanmarese. To my ear, it never sounds quite right. Insisting that the Myanmar people speak Myanmar in Myanmar hardly makes it easier to understand. But with new places there can be good reason to get our tongues around entirely new words. Take Nay Pyi Taw. What should we call the people who live there? Last year the Australian National Universitys Olivia Cable introduced the Naypyitawrian: a new type of Myanmar citizen, denizen of the seat of power. Her Humans of Naypyidaw Facebook initiative offers snapshots of life in the capital. Many are unexpected, intriguing, even funny. But, taken together, they up-end the comfortable idea that Nay Pyi Taw is a joke. Over time, the city has become home to new ideas, economies, cultures and politics, and not just among the transient political uber-elite. There is a large, settled population in the greater Nay Pyi Taw area who are making their way through one of the worlds most remarkable urban landscapes. Just who are these people? The fact is that while we have been scratching our heads about their astounding city, hundreds of thousands of Naypyitawrians have been quietly getting on with life. Some are residents of the old townships of Lewe, Pyinmana and Tatkon that have been absorbed by Nay Pyi Taw. Most casual visitors do not get a chance to see the agricultural and manufacturing industry that thrives in these areas. These jumbled and energetic places were successfully settled ages before Nay Pyi Taw was ever planned. They will probably still be there long after it is gone. Elsewhere in Nay Pyi Taw, especially in the newer neighbourhoods, gradations of access and power are well-marked and signposted. At the start, there were rigid distinctions between the status of different areas. While some of those differences are now harder to see, there is no escaping the steep hierarchies that order day-to-day life in Nay Pyi Taw. There are few places on earth where the discrepancy between the richest and the poorest is so great. Such hierarchy is, of course, apparent in the sprawling districts set aside for official residences. They range from small, crowded dormitory rooms stacked with junior civil servants right up to the gated communities reserved for Myanmars top powerbrokers, including those ensconced up in the militarys Zeyathiri. When considering the Naypyitawrians, we should also not forget the surprising numbers of people who live in the unglamorous residential townships that few of us ever get to know. The hardscrabble areas of northern Pobbathiri township are only a half-hour drive from the glittering lights of the Dekkhinathiri hotel zone. But it can feel like a world away. Given this diversity and inequality it is worth considering how the Naypyitawrian identity will distinguish itself alongside the repertoires of belonging ethnic, geographic, religious, political and linguistic that are so important elsewhere in Myanmar. What makes Nay Pyi Taw different is the concentration of decision-making power. And even if they resent the affiliation, and have little power themselves, it is the proximity to power that ensures Naypyitawrians will become an ever-more-identifiable cohort in Myanmar society. For now, their city confronts the tension between its genesis on a Tatmadaw drawing board and the ongoing evolution toward Daw Aung San Suu Kyis democratic hub. Now that members of the National League for Democracy will hold some authority in Nay Pyi Taw, there is no doubt a new hum will follow. That hum will last for some time. And while Nay Pyi Taw is still the union capital, it will be the Naypyitawrians who will survive as governments rise and fall. My guess is that when Nay Pyi Taw fades, so too will the democratic flirtation, just another in the long line of regimes that the Myanmar people have seen come and go. In the meantime, there is much talk of more concerted efforts by the diplomatic and foreign community to take up the offer of space in Nay Pyi Taw. This shift has been a long time coming. In the years and decades to come, that presence should give the city an international stamp of approval. I suppose there will always be grumbles about its relative lack of amenities. But before we get too fixated on narrow ideas about what the city should be, take a moment to consider the people who already live there. Next time you are in the capital, make the effort to meet some of these Naypyitawrians and ask for their views. It is their city. Given its role in Myanmars transformation, you might find they are increasingly proud of the chance to show it off. New Mandala Nicholas Farrelly is the director of the Myanmar Research Centre at the Australian National University. On March 2, he will lecture about Nay Pyi Taw at the Institute of Southeast Asian Studies in Singapore. There are a few pretty reliable ways to judge a companys performance in the competitive mobile space. The most obvious, of course, is market share, but another very important metric is apps. Without the most popular apps, a mobile platform is pretty much confined to irrelevancejust ask Windows Phone, which has been plagued by criticism from day one for having a lacking app market. As such, its understandable that many are interpreting the news that WhatsApp is ending support for BlackBerry devicesincluding classic BBOS phones as well as more recent devices sporting BB10as a death knell for the mobile platform. The truth is, the situation has been dire for the Canadian smartphone maker for some time now. It currently sits at roughly one percent of a market it once dominated, but the rise of the iPhone and Android devices from Samsung have left little room for other manufacturers, save for the Chinese brands that rose to international prominence last year. For WhatsApp, this is nothing more than a shrewd and necessary move to save resources by stopping development for all-but-defunct platforms. Aside from BlackBerry and BlackBerry 10, WhatsApp is also ending support for Nokia S40, Nokia Symbian S60, Windows Phone 7.1 and Android devices running version 2.2 or earlier. WhatsApp also says these platforms are too limited to handle upcoming features for the mobile messaging app. While these mobile devices have been an important part of our story, they don't offer the kind of capabilities we need to expand our app's features in the future, said WhatsApp on its official blog. This was a tough decision for us to make, but the right one in order to give people better ways to keep in touch with friends, family, and loved ones using WhatsApp. If you use one of these affected mobile devices, we recommend upgrading to a newer Android, iPhone, or Windows Phone before the end of 2016 to continue using WhatsApp. Edited by Stefania Viscusi Award-winning Ghanaian rapper, Michael Owusu Addo, popularly known as Sarkodie, over the weekend addressed some students of the Harvard Business School in Massachusetts, United States. The rapper, who was invited to address a conference of students, shared his life experiences as one of Africas successful musicians under the theme The Art Of The Side Hustle. Aside enriching the lives of the students, he also performed at one of the worlds most prestigious educational institutions. See some of the photos below: See more photos here Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Ernest Dela Aglanu (Twitter: @delaXdela / Instagram: citizendela) The flagbearer for the New Patriotic Party (NPP) Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo has disclosed that his administration will set a special fun for the Creative Arts sector. He said the creative arts is dear to his heart and believes that the sector needs support to foster its growth. Speaking at his version of the State of the Nation Address Monday at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Accra, the NPP flagbearer said the fund will be part of key initiatives by his administration to boost the growth of the economy. The President, John Mahama was heavily criticised by persons in the creative arts industry for neglecting the sector in his State of the Nation Address last Thursday. Follow the writer on Twitter: @delaXdela / Instagram: citizendela Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com | Ernest Dela Aglanu (Twitter: @delaXdela / Instagram: citizendela) Sorry, we can't find the content you're looking for at this URL. Tema, Feb. 28, GNA - Mr Clemence Yao Baba, Headmaster of the Olam Senior High School, has said if society wants to be safe and peaceful then parents must focus on the education of their children. He said education is the bedrock of society and without that the future of present and succeeding generations would be miserable. Mr Baba said this during a Parent-Teacher Association meeting of the Olam Senior High School. He said parents have a greater role to play in providing quality education to their children by ensuring that the students attend extra classes and are punctual at school. Mr Baba expressed unhappiness at the attitudes of some parents to PTA meetings, saying that the school with students' population of over 1,200 only few parents attend meetings regularly. Chief Alhaji H.M. Musah Sanni, the PTA Chairman, urged parents to pay regular visits to schools to acquaint themselves with the performance of their children so as to find solutions to any challenges that they may face. 'Do not wait till PTA meetings before you set your foot in the schools to know whether your children are doing well or not,' he said. Chief Alhaji Sanni appealed to the government to support the mission school with additional facilities such as washrooms because the available ones were being over-stretched due to the increased number of the students. GNA Five members of the New Patriotic Party (NPP) who have shown interest in the Abuakwa North constituency primary have been cleared. They will contest the Eastern Region seat on Tuesday, March 1, 2016 for by-elections on March 29. The seat became vacant after MP for the constituency Joseph Boakye Danquah-Adu was killed at his home on February 9. Initially six candidates were vetted on Sunday to contest the election, but one person stepped down. Regional First Vice Chairman of the party, Alhaji Umar Bodinga told journalists a legal practitioner, Kay Amoah, stepped down to throw his weight behind another candidate, Gifty Twum Ampofo. Gifty Twum Ampofo is Eastern Regional President of the Science Teachers Association of Ghana. Meanwhile, some Abuakwa North NPP members who were also hoping to contest in the primary say they suspect foul play in the selection process. They claim the picking of forms and vetting was not publicized. They say the party opened nominations and closed within 24 hours. Bonti Benjamin, one of the aggrieved aspirants, claim the party did so to ensure that their favourites sailed through. The other candidates who have been given the nod by the party to contest Tuesdays primary include, Isaac Osei Ampadu, a licensed auctioneer and a timber merchant, Kyei Brobbey, immediate past headmaster of Ofori Panin Senior High School, Professor-Emeritus Samuel Amoako, a former MP for the area. In all 375 members of the NPP from 64 polling stations are expected to select a candidate for the by-elections on March 29. ADDISION SHOCKS NII MOI IN NPP KLOTTEY KORLE BATTLE Celebrated Lawyer Philip Kojo Addison over the weekend pulled a major surprise when he defied the odds to win the rerun parliamentary primary of the opposition NPP in the Klottey Korle constituency. 5 VIE FOR JBS SEAT Six NPP members in the Abuakwa North Constituency of the Eastern Region have picked nomination forms and have been vetted by the regional branch of the party to contest in the parliamentary primary of scheduled for Tuesday. IS MAHAMA LIVING IN GHANA? NANA ASKS As the NPP Presidential candidate, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, presents what he as described as the real State of the Nation at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons today, he is wondering if President Mahama as any idea about the unprecedented level of economic difficulties and hardships the Ghanaian people have been subjected under the two-term administration of the NDC. CRUDE OIL PRICES ONLY BACK TO NORMAL Crude oil prices are only back to normal and they will remain so unless there is a major shock, like an India following a China growth trajectory and guzzling more oil or in the event of a major geopolitical upheaval, independent economists at London-based Llewellyn Consulting have said. ILLEGAL FEES KILLING WOMEN IN LABOUR A study by Send-Ghana has revealed that a lot of women who go into labour, especially in the northern regions, avoid health facilities due to illegal fees a situation that is contributing to the rise in maternal mortality. CEDI GESTURES FIRST QUARTER RESLIENCE The year-to-year performance of the cedi against the US dollar should give the central bank something to be hopeful about as it depreciated only 2.49 percent as against 7.6 percent within the same period last year. CPC SUFFERS NEW SETBACK; ONE OF ITS 3 ROASTERS BREAKDOWN Cocoa Processing Company, a majority state-owned company, has suffered a fresh setback as one of its three roasters has broken down. GANA NEEDS COHERENT ALCOHOL POLICY THINK TANK Baraka Policy Institute (BPI) an independent think-tank, has called for a coherent national policy to regulate the production, consumption and marketing of alcoholic products in the country. PASS RTI BILL FIRST AND NOW LAWYER WRITES TO SPEAKER OF PARLIAMENT Pass the Right to Information Bill before The Interception of Postal Packets and Telecommunication Messages Bill. DVLA PLEDGES SUPPORT TO KATANKA AUTOMOBILE The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Authority (DVLA) has pledged its preparedness to offer support to the Kantanka Group of Companies, manufacturers of Kantanka brand of vehicles. POLICE, LAND GUARDS STRIKE IN DOBLO Some personnel from the Police SWAT Unit of the Ghana Police Service and land guards have teamed up to terrorise land owners in Ayikai Doblo, a fast growing community in the Ga West Municipality of the Greater Accra Region. PPP PUNCHES MAHAMA AGAIN; SAYS DUMSOR NOT OVER The Progressive Peoples Party (PPP) has painted a gloomy picture about the state of the Ghanaian economy which in its estimation points to the governors failure to address the dwindling economic fortunes of the country. NANA ADDO IS A DICTOATOR AFOKO INFERS Embattled Chairman of the NPP, Paul Afoko, has inferred that the partys 2016 flagbearer, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo is a dictator. GHANA IS BROKE DALEX FINANCE CEO Government has been urged to face up to the reality that the country is broke and chart a new path with agriculture development as key to help address her economic challenges for a better future. BOG GOVERNOR MUST RESIGN GHANAIANS SUGGEST The recent microfinance crisis has shaken public confidence in the Bank of Ghana as some Ghanaians are calling on the Governor to step down, stressing that, his continuous stay in office would mean more trouble for the countrys financial sector. The Ashanti Regional Security Council has mounted an operation to flush out nomadic herdsmen from the Agogo area following the shooting of two men last Friday. The deceased persons, David Atiah, 25, and another who is yet to be identified, were allegedly shot dead at close range by a herdsman following an altercation. The death of the two local farmers on Friday is just one of the many fatal incidents security agencies are dealing with. The long-drawn-out battle between the herdsmen and residents of Agogo has claimed many lives and property. The Agogo residents accuse the herdsmen who are said to be Fulanis of destroying their farms. Konongo District Police Commander Superintendent Ohene Boadi Bossman says a team of military and police officers have begun a twenty-four-hour patrol of the area to crack down on the situation. We have divided the team into two for strategic and effective deployment and efficient patrolling. One takes the morning, from 6am to 6pm the other takes from 6pm to the following day 6am, he explained. Superintendent Bossman says the bush patrols are also aimed at finding the killers of the two Agogo residents. He has asked the residents to have confidence in the security agencies to deal with the crisis in the area. 29.02.2016 LISTEN I am sure you agree with me that Ghanaians are sitting on a time bomb. Imagine they begin to attack US interests in Ghana or even escape from Ghana, one will immediately push all the blame on President John Dramani Mahama because what would happen to Ghana is that $10 million per escaped detainee would have been paid to the USA. When I was young we used to redefine Public Works Department (PWD) as Paawrenfo Department. The Akan word "paawrenfo" means accepting to do a job, for example, packing thousand blocks without receiving any remuneration in return but what you get are a heap of insults and embarrassing comments if you happen to break a few blocks in the process of carrying them to pack. It is being speculated that fifteen ex-detainees are on their way to Ghana. The Guantanamo Bay detention camp is a United States military prison located within Guantanamo Bay Naval Base. It is also referred to as Guantanamo, G-bay or GTMO (pronounced 'gitmo'), which fronts on Guantanamo Bay in Cuba. The detention camp which was established in January 2002 was mainly to detain extraordinarily dangerous people with the sole purpose of interrogating them and consequently prosecuting them for terrorism and war crimes. Before the centre became a detention camp for terrorists and dangerous political prisoners, it was used as a processing centre for asylum seekers and HIV positive refugees in the 1990s. The base covers an estimated area of 116 sq. kilometres Ghanaians woke up one fine day on the 6th of January 2016 to behold that two ex-detainees have been "smuggled" in by President Mahama. No prior announcement was made to Ghanaians and Mahama made no consultation with parliament, a clear breach of Article 75 clause 2a, b of Ghana's constitution. As a result, the two ex-detainees, Mahmmoud Omar Mohammed Bin Atef and Khalid Shaykh Mohammad, landed in Ghana to the disapproval of majority of Ghanaians. It is frightening to note that Bin Atef was a fighter in Usama Bin Laden's 55th Arab Brigade. He was also an active member of the Taliban. Bin Atef participated in hostilities against US and coalition forces. As a detainee and ex-detainee he continued and still continues to show his support for the extremist ideals of Usama Bin Laden. He accepted recruitment from a known Al Qaeda member in Saudi Arabia. He later joined the Al Qaeda forces in Afghanistan to participate in Jihadist combat. When he was arrested by the American forces, he admitted having stayed in Al Qaeda and Taliban guest houses and received military training at Al Faruq training camp belonging to Al Qaeda. One of the main reasons why Americans did not send him to the USA is that after series of investigations, they found his name on an Al Qaeda terrorist document where he had threatened to kill American citizens wherever he finds them. He issued a specific threat to cut the throats of US citizens when he is released. You now understand why, when he was released, he was sent to Ghana where the concentration of Americans is low. He was listed by the Americans as a high risk terrorist who is likely to attack America, its interests and allies. The 34-year old Khalid Shaykh Muhammad was the second ex-Guantanamo bay refugee to be transferred to Ghana. He lived his entire life in Saudi Arabia even though he claimed to be a Yemeni citizen. He was a student at Haram Al-Makki mosque. During his studies, he met one Abu Ali Al-Yati. This man showed him videos of fighting and training camps in Chechnya. Khalid met his devil that day. Al Yati was able to convince him to understand that the Koran admonishes Muslims to know how to fight. Khalid was convinced and in his excitement he left his studies and travelled to Afghanistan for training. Al Yati helped him with travel arrangements and funds to start the three week training under the tutelage of an Al-Qaeda trainer. The training consisted of familiarization with pistols, heavy machine gun, rocket-propelled grenade launchers, home-made bombs preparation techniques and hand-to-hand combat techniques. When he was later arrested by the US he denied awareness of some of the people he had been dealing with and those who are connected to Usama Bin Laden. Khalid joined in the attacks against the coalition forces but, unlike Bin Atef, he was determined to hide information from the Americans in order to be branded a medium risk detainee. Dear reader, these are the people we are confronted with in Ghana. Are we safe? Ghanaians have reacted angrily to the decision of government to accept the two men, fearing the risk they pose to the countrys security. But the US says it has clarified and addressed all security lapses before transferring the two Yemeni detainees, nearly six years after their transfer approval. Do you believe this? Why were they not transferred to the US where security is much better than Ghana? At this point it is important to ask what actually compelled Mahama to accept the two ex-detainees in Ghana. It is reliably learnt that the two Yemeni undesirables have been given residence in Takoradi. The question many are posing is, why Takoradi? There are more questions than answers. It is hard to tell how residents of Takoradi would provide security for these Yemeni undesirables. Many were shocked and frightened when they heard the news that an accommodation has been provided for the two ex-detainees. Many argue that Flagstaff house would have been better for these potentially dangerous terrorists. Rumours are rife and questions are being asked about the rationale behind the deal. It was rumoured that Mahama and his administration have been paid $300 million. Mahama came out with a swift denial. Even though no one can provide any documentary evidence of the deal, tongues will not stop wagging. The question will continue to be asked: what compelled Mahama and his administration to accept these ex-detainees to Ghana without consulting parliament? Is Mahama telling Ghanaians that accepting to host these rejected terrorists brought no benefit to Ghana? Ghana has no relationship with Yemen so if what Mahama is saying is true, why should Ghana accept these undesirables that have been rejected by their own country Yemen? What is the sense in bringing these men to Ghana to be catered for by the tax payer? The Minister of Foreign Affairs and Regional Integration, Mrs Hanna Tetteh, has tried to calm the nerves of Ghanaians without success. The Minister was invited to parliament to explain the rationale behind accepting to host the ex-detainees in Ghana. She made a mess of herself by not giving any direct responses to questions asked and displaying ignorance in some of the questions posed. That was very absurd, for how can she claim that she knew nothing about the president's decision to bring in the ex-detainees. This was a blatant lie to the members of parliament. Who, then, is privy to the negotiations that went on to re-locate these Yemen undesirables? The decision to bring them to Ghana will be laid squarely on the shoulders of the president, John Dramani Mahama. Ghana is a peace-loving country but the citizens find it hard to accept the two ex-detainees who they consider to be potentially dangerous. President Mahama consistently lied to Ghanaians that the government will not be financially responsible for the upkeep of the ex-detainees. This assertion by the president was debunked by a high-ranking and well informed official of the US Embassy in an interview with Kwasi Pratt. He told Kwasi Pratt that Ghana will bear part of the cost. Kwesi Pratt asked about who would pay for security issues. The official replied the cost of security was the sole responsibility of the Ghana government. By paying part of the cost to host these men and taking sole responsibility of security, what does Ghana hope to get from this deal? The NPP has condemned Mahama and his administration for stooping so low and kowtowing to the US. The issue of these Yememi undesirables has assumed political and religious dimensions. Interestingly, it took Nana Addo a long time to open his mouth to comment on the issue. Ghana is sitting on a time bomb if proper surveillance and security are not provided for the Guantanamo bay ex-detainees. Stephen Atta Owusu Author: Dark Faces at Crossroads Email: [email protected] The sorry state of images of pupils lying prostrate and writing is an eye sore and must be of concern to all of us. Come to think about this scenario: Isnt it surprising that the numerous educational policies embarked upon by several governments in decades and yesteryears will still have pupils lying prostrate in class rooms and writing? If this is not a big national disgrace seeing these images in our beloved country, what else then is? Whats the sector minister up to in spite of the donor support of all kinds and magnitude? What educational policies are in place for the benefit of the country? The Kperisi M.A Primary issue is so nauseating. It is even difficult to imagine and believe that kids are experiencing this unpleasant situation in Ghana while some donor funds would have been grossly misapplied and shamefully misprioritized. Without a doubt, what we hear from government in terms of education in the country does not commensurate these sorry state pictures of kids lying prostrate and writing. For heavens sake, each pupil in that classroom is a unique individual who needs a secure, caring, and stimulating atmosphere in which to grow and mature emotionally, intellectually, physically, and socially. The capture of this unfortunate situation at the Kperisi M.A Primary, demonstrates abundantly the neglect of childrens education which remains an unaddressed issue in neighborhoods and should be of interest to government and to all and sundry ( http://www.ghanaweb.com/GhanaHomePage/regional/Pupils-suffer-waist-pains-cold-from-lying-on-floor-in-school-419044 ) Imputing from this from an educational perspective, how will children even engage reading in such a situation? How does such a neglect not constitute a failure at the very outset of their educational journey? I want answers to these questions because as far as I am concerned children are the future of any society and steps must be taken to provide for access to knowledge and reading for them to become the responsible individuals we intend for them to become. The Kperisi MA Primary school issue might just be a tip of the ice berg. Does it appear to be the prototype of all other sorry state school scenarios in rural Ghana? Listening to the Headmistress speak, one can imagine how committed she is at doing her best for the kids with nothing. That is the passion teachers have for their profession. One can feel the desire of the Headmistress as an educator to help pupils meet their fullest potential, but she is handicapped in that regard. The desire of the headmistress can be felt in providing an environment that is safe, supports risk taking initiatives, and sharing of ideas, but she is handicapped again in that regard. One can imagine the desire of the Headmistress to establish a conducive environment for learning, allowing the kids natural curiosity to direct their learning and yet she is handicapped to do just that. All those asking for an apology from Auntie Rosina Diedong, the Headmistress of the School, are probably outstripped in intelligence and wisdom condemned to sycophancy as compared to an outsized spirit with an irresistible mix of professionalism and wisdom coming from this Headmistress. For the records: Is the Kperisi M.A Primary School not in a deplorable state as per the pictures? Did Joy News report not show the pupils lying on the bare classroom floor to write ostensibly owing to lack of furniture to sit on? Is it not true that these kids are exposed to not catching only the cold and rendering them sick but also that they have to encounter waist pains as a result of lying on the floor for how many hours God knows? Is the Headmistress not giving the true statistics of the situation that only two of the 56 pupils in this classroom can boast of a table and a chair their parents bought for them and that the rest have to depend on the dirty bare floor there? And to cap it up, is the statistic not correct that over 500 pupils of the School, lie prostrate on the dirty bare floor to write because they are without furniture? The right to education of these kids have been infringed upon as per the Constitution of the Republic of Ghana in Article 25 (1) which states that all persons shall have the right to equal educational opportunities and facilities, with a view to achieving the full realization of that right: basic education shall be free, compulsory and available to all. Cletus D Kuunifaa TMC Group Can be contacted at [email protected] or follow him on twitter @ckuunifaa 29.02.2016 LISTEN Dear Mrs Georgina Wood, I recently published an open letter to you on the Ghana internet news portals. It was about the petition made to you by the Registrar of the Judicial Committee of the Ashanti Regional House of Chiefs. In my letter, I sought, through query, to know on what credible basis the registrar petitioned you to intervene favourably on his behalf, by way of blocking any further court proceedings intended to oblige him to produce any documents in the possession of the Judicial Committee pertaining to whether or not Dr Yaw Sarfo has been gazetted as Kumawuhene. I raised the relevant points on which an aggrieved litigant can seek your unbiased intervention through a petition. I questioned if the registrar did satisfy or meet those two criteria. One has to prove that 1) the Judge is, will be, and is being, biased, and 2) the judgment rendered by the Judge is unfair. You will agree with me that the registrar had never appeared before the judge let alone, been found guilty. He had chosen to rather play hide and seek with the court, claiming that the Mampong Regional High Court is not endowed with the Constitutional powers or rights to hear the case of mandamus brought against him. No ruling has ever been pronounced against him on this issue in discussion. How can he then make a petition to you against the court or the judge? From my conducted investigations into the conduct of the registrar, it has been revealed by an inner circle source from Kumawuhemaa and Dr Yaw Sarfos camp that the registrar has agreed to scupper or delay indefinitely any attempts by whomever to know the real traditional status of Dr Yaw Sarfo hence the petition he has made to you. Now that the writ of mandamus issued has been consigned to what may be the legal cemetery, with all proceedings adjourned sine die, my question to you is, and do you support the ploy by the registrar to circumvent justice or to pervert the course of justice? Why is this intransigence by the registrar not to comply with the order to inform the court or the plaintiffs of whether or not Kumawuhene Barimah Sarfo Tweneboah Koduah has been gazetted as his supporters and he, himself do declare? Please Madam, be aware that I have an interest in the ongoing Kumawu chieftaincy dispute not only as a curious observer but also, as a citizen of Kumawu who desires the best for his locality. Subsequently, I shall query any processes by whomever that I shall find as intentionally implemented or being pursued to delay or to stop the truth from unfolding. Until you pronounce your decision on the petition made to you by the registrar, there is nothing that anyone can do to ascertain whether or not Dr Yaw Sarfo has been gazetted as Kumawuhene. Why are some people curious to become conversant with that information, you may ask? The public knowledge of that information will allow those citizens with the interest of Kumawuman at heart to pursue further court actions to stop the saboteurs of Kumawuman from exploiting us to the hilt. I am sure you and I, like many other Ghanaians, have learnt a lesson from Anas Aremeyaw Anas revelations of harmful corruption, the bane of Ghanas development, within the Ghana judiciary. The subsequent sacking of some judges does prove to many a Ghanaian how seriously harmful judicial corruption is and why the nation will not lend countenance to. The action of the registrar to me does amount to judicial corruption in the making. He is abusing his position. Is there any law in Ghana that permits a court registrar not to release information to the High Court on whether a chief has been gazetted or not? Yours Faithfully, Rockson Adofo The bodies of the murdered farmers 29.02.2016 LISTEN At least two more people have been killed in a latest shooting at Asante-Akyem Agogo in the Ashanti Region, with fingers being pointed at Fulani herdsmen. The latest atrocity, which took place last Friday, has given cause to the local people to believe that they have been marked for extermination by the nomadic Fulani herdsmen. The situation has therefore, sparked apprehension among the people amidst heightening tension, while the youth are thinking of defending themselves against aggressions and unlawful killings by the herdsmen. There was gunfire in the bush in the Agogo community of Abrewanko near Nyamebekyere, around 4:30 pm, resulting in the death of Mustapha Ibrahim, 32 and Haruna, 20 years, believed to be Sissala, a resident hinted DAILY GUIDE. It comes weeks after the killing of two of the inhabitants by the Fulanis in a renewed clash that erupted between them (herdsmen) and local farmers in the area. David Atiah, 25 and another person were said to have been shot dead at close range by a Fulani herdsman following brief exchanges. David Atiah was reportedly working in his groundnut farm in the afternoon when he was allegedly shot by the Fulani who was keeping a herd of cattle. The Fulani herdsman was also purportedly shot in the thigh by a native of Agogo in retaliation, but he survived the attack and was responding to treatment. Before that incident, 30-year-old Akwasi Badu had been shot to death at close range on his farm by Aliu Baba, after the victim protested against grazing on his farm by cattle that were being tended by the teenager. . In the latest shooting incident, Mustapha was purportedly attacked and killed while working on his farm by a suspected Fulani for what a witness speculated to be a reprisal attack by the herdsmen to avenge the killing of their cattle. He was found in a pool of blood with his body riddled with bullets. His younger colleague, Haruna on the other hand, was found shot dead by members of the Abrewanko community while they were combing the bush for the suspects, an anonymous resident told DAILY GUIDE. ASP Yusif Mohammed Tanko, Public Relations Officer of the Ashanti Regional Police Command, who confirmed the incident, told DAILY GUIDE the bodies of the deceased persons had since been deposited at the district's Government Hospital. He said the police had no evidence to relate the crime to the Fulani herdsmen as the case was still under investigation. Paul Kinsley Aruweh Averu, the District Chief Executive for Agogo, also corroborated the dastardly act, but said the incident was an isolated case. According to him, the deployment of security personnel to the area had subdued upheavals as the cattle of the nomadic herdsmen had been driven away from the communities where they were causing destruction to farms. From Ernest Kofi Adu, Kumasi The Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) welcomed today a contribution of US$ 4.5 million from the Government and people of Japan to support the agency's work in Sudan. UNHCR is supporting the Government of Sudan's efforts to provide protection and assistance to refugees and asylum-seekers, as well as respond to the needs of internally displaced persons. Japan's contribution is mainly devoted to UNHCR's activities in Khartoum, eastern Sudan and Darfur. The contribution will help ensure basic services and continue to support 90,000 refugees and host communities in eastern Sudan, including with primary health care, nutrition, water and sanitation facilities, and education. UNHCR will also maintain a capacity to provide emergency shelter and non-food items for internally displaced persons. H.E. Mr. Hideki Ito, Ambassador of Japan to Sudan, said: Sudan has historically accommodated a large number of refugees. I am pleased to announce this year's Japanese funding through UNHCR to provide necessary support to refugees and assist the Government of Sudan's efforts in providing assistance to refugees and asylum-seekers and documentation for them. I trust Sudan will perform a positive role in stabilizing the region. UNHCR Representative, Mr. Mohammed Adar, said: We are very grateful to the Government and people of Japan for their strong support to UNHCR in Sudan. This contribution will allow us, in close cooperation with the Sudanese authorities, to support the needs of refugees and other persons of concern. Sudan generously hosts over 300,000 refugees within its territory, from Chad, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Central African Republic and South Sudan. Notes UNHCR in Sudan works with the Commissioner for Refugees (COR), the Humanitarian Aid Commission (HAC), the Sudanese Red Crescent Society and other national institutions to protect and assist refugees, asylum-seekers and internally displaced people. UNHCR has 11 offices in Sudan. The agency's financial requirements for Sudan in 2016 amount to US$ 140,425,209 million. Mr. Mitsuhiro Furusawa, Deputy Managing Director of the International Monetary Fund (IMF), issued the following statement today in Abidjan at the conclusion of a visit to Cote d'Ivoire. My visit to Cote d'Ivoire has been extremely fruitful and informative. I wish to thank President Alassane Dramane Ouattara for meeting with me to discuss the country's economic achievements and its outlook. I also want to thank Prime Minister Kablan Duncan and Minister Adama Kone for their insights. I commended President Ouattara for his strong leadership and economic record amid a deteriorating global environment. Cote d'Ivoire has experienced four years of strong growth, averaging 8.9 percent a year over the past 4 years. Maintaining this growth momentum will require transitioning to a more private sector-led model while effecting reforms aimed at improving the business environment. In my meetings with the authorities, I commended them for the sharp increase in pro-poor spending over the last years and the overhaul of the cocoa and coffee revenue distribution mechanisms to augment farmers' stake. Although declining, as evidenced by a recent household survey, poverty, inequality, andunemployment remain high and significant regional disparities still exist. Against this background, we discussed ways to maintain economic progress while strengthening the transition towards a more inclusive model. These included a set of policy recommendations aimed at pursuing fiscal consolidation based on greater revenue mobilization and efficient spending, while increasing priority outlays. It will also require maintaining a disciplined fiscal policy in order to build buffers that would enable the conduct of counter-cyclical policy in the face of adverse shocks, as well as to contain the increase in public debt. The adoption of a recent financial strategy aimed at strengthening financial stability and fostering financial deepening and inclusion, in particular by enhancing small and medium enterprises to access to credit is welcome and the authorities are taking the necessary steps to restructure the remaining troubled banks. I would like to thank President Ouattara and the government and people of Cote d'Ivoire for their welcome and warm hospitality during my visit. President Mahama with police chiefs at the function 29.02.2016 LISTEN President John Dramani Mahama has tasked the police administration to immediately set up a Special Police Force to deal with insurgencies and terrorism. Using the recent attacks on Mali and Burkina Faso as examples, President Mahama said Ghana cannot sit and think it is free from any terrorist attacks claiming, I have given the authorization for the Special Force to be formed to deal with these attacks. He made this known in Accra last Friday at the annual get-together of the police administration popularly known in security circles as West African Security Services Association (WASSA). When a terrorist group attacked Iraq, we thought Africa was safe, then Boko Haram of Nigeria emerged killing innocent people, now, Mali and Baukina Faso, he noted. He said, Ghana needs to prepare itself to protect its citizenry in case of any attack. The fear of terrorist attack has gripped the country following the hosting of two former Al-Qaeda detainees who were released from the Guantanamo Bay in Cuba by the United States early this year. Touching on indiscipline in the Police Service, President Mahama pledged his support for the administration to weed out the bad nuts. . He called on personnel in uniform to conduct themselves well publicly to erase the bad image of the Service. The outgoing Minister for the Interior, Mr Mark Owen Woyongo, urged the police to intensify the maintenance of peace and security throughout the country as it approaches elections. He lauded the police administration for the speedy manner in which it professionally unraveled the mysteries surrounding some high-profile crimes, especially the murder of JB Danquah-Adu, MP for Abuakwa North in the Eastern Region. He also used the opportunity to introduce the new Interior Minister, Prosper Bani, to the personnel gathered. The Inspector General of police (IGP) John Kudalor, announced that crime rate for 2015 was drastically reduced as compared to 2014. He called on stakeholders, political parties, supporters, social commentators, party communicators and others to exercise maximum restraint in their electioneering campaigns and activities. ([email protected]) By Linda Tenyah- Ayettey Guests cutting the school anniversary cake 29.02.2016 LISTEN An Acute water shortage has hit the Presbyterian Senior High School at Mampong-Akuapem in the Eastern Region. The situation has compelled over 2,644 students and teachers in the school to walk over one kilometer every day to fetch water from a nearby stream as Ghana Water Company Limited had not been supplying the area with water. Rev. E.T. Akusaki, headmaster of Mampong Presec, revealed this during the schools 25th Anniversary and 7th Speech and Prize Giving Day on the theme: Infrastructure Development: Sine Qua Non To Quality Education, last Saturday. According to Rev. Akusaki, the situation does not only offer an opportunity for wayward students to run to town, but it also exposes students to a lot of dangers and robs them of the valuable time for academic work. The headmaster noted that out of the five boreholes constructed in the school, only two were functioning, therefore if a dam was constructed on the stream, the water could be pumped to the school for use, adding that the school needs a reservoir to restore water to ensure sustainability. Rev. Akusaki disclosed that the school lacks classroom and dormitory blocks, power generating plant, fence wall, among other infrastructure, and appealed to the government to come to their aid. . He also pointed to lack of vehicles, assembly and dining halls. Regarding these, he called on the government and cooperate institutions to come and build a multipurpose one-storey building with 3,000 capacity dining and assembly halls for the school. Mr. Akusaki hinted that the Presbyterian Senior High School, which was established in 1991 in line with the 1987 Educational Reform Programme in the country, has produced numerous scholars across the country and beyond. The chairman for the event, Nana Perbi Brafo, also expressed worry about the challenges confronting the school and personally donated an amount of GH20,000 to assist the school to undertake some of the projects. The Eastern Regional Minister, Mavis Ama Frimpong, revealed that the government had decided to undertake some projects in the school which would soon start. [email protected] From Daniel Bampoe, Mampong 29.02.2016 LISTEN As the New Patriotic Party (NPP) presidential candidate, Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo, presents what he has described as 'the Real State of the Nation at the Ghana College of Physicians and Surgeons at 10am today, he is wondering if President John Mahama has any idea about the unprecedented level of economic difficulties and hardships the Ghanaian people have been subjected to under the two-term administration of the National Democratic Congress (NDC). According to Nana Akufo-Addo, President Mahama's assertion in last week's State of the Nation Address that the country's healthcare delivery system had seen massive levels of improvement under his tenure proves that the president has lost touch with the concerns of the ordinary Ghanaian and the realities on the ground. Is Mahama living in Ghana with us? the NPP flagbearer rhetorically asked, adding, Or perhaps he is living in a different country? We all know the difficulties and hardships that confront us in this country. He has no idea what Ghanaians are going through. The NPP presidential candidate was speaking on Saturday at Atimpoku in the Asuogyaman constituency of the Eastern Region during the final funeral rites of the late Nana Asafo Adjei II, ex-Krontihene of the Akwamu Traditional Area, and later at Prampram. A bread seller offering to Nana Akufo-Addo at Atimpoku GH20 Vote-Buying Nana Akufo-Addo, addressing the chiefs, hinted that the 2016 election is all about the future of Ghana and urged the electorate not to be swayed by handouts aimed at influencing their choice on election day. This is a special year for Ghanaians. This election is not about GH10 or GH20 (handouts). It is about our future as a country. At this moment, access to education for all school-going children has become a headache for parents because they cannot afford to pay fees. When someone is sick, it becomes a heart-wrenching moment because our healthcare system is in a mess. This is not the Ghana we want, he stated. He continued, We in the NPP have done it before. In order to tackle the difficult economy the NPP inherited in 2001, President John Agyekum Kufuor put an able team together and before very long, Ghana had become the success story of the continent. Akufo-Addo will do the same. The NPP flagbearer therefore urged the people of Atimpoku to give him the opportunity to turn the dwindling fortunes of Ghana around so that the country could be returned onto the path of progress and prosperity. Give me the opportunity and support me. Have confidence in me. This is my third attempt and I am appealing to you to try me also; and I can assure you that with God's guidance, I will not disappoint you, he added. Nana Akufo-Addo also introduced the NPP parliamentary candidate for the constituency, Kwame Adu Darkwa, to the people of Atimpoku. . He appealed to the gathering to help the NPP retain the seat by voting for Mr Kwame Adu Darkwa on November 7. The incumbent NPP MP, Kofi Osei Ameyaw, it will be recalled, did not contest the NPP parliamentary primary, thereby giving Mr Kwame Adu Darkwa the opportunity to represent the party in the upcoming election. Tribute Paying glowing tribute to the late Nana Asafo Adjei, Nana Akufo-Addo explained that the late chief was one of the founders of our party who helped nurture it to become the biggest political party in Ghana. After his passing away, we deem it necessary to come and pay tribute to our fallen patriot in testament to the work he has done for Ghana and for the NPP. The NPP made a cash donation of GH2,000 to the family of the late chief. Visit Earlier on Saturday, Nana Akufo-Addo visited the Ningo Prampram constituency where he attended the funeral of Madam Bertha Narkie Nyameasem, the late mother of Alhaji Ibrahim Nyameasem aka Small Boy, CEO of Alinco Oil Co. Ltd at Ningo. He also attended the funeral of Madam Comfort Matekie Akita, mother-in-law of the NPP Volta Regional 1st Vice Chairman, Dr Archibald Letsa, at Prampram. Nana Akufo-Addo was accompanied by his wife, Rebecca Akufo-Addo; former Mayor of Accra and member of the NPP Council of Elders, Nii Adjiri Blankson; former Greater Accra Regional Minister and former MP for Ayawaso Central, Sheikh I.C. Quaye; Greater Accra Regional Secretary, Adjei Sowah; former Member of Parliament for Ayawaso West Wuogon, Isaac Amoo; parliamentary candidates for Ningo Prampram, Sege, Krowor and Asuogyaman constituencies, Sylvester Tetteh, Divine Otoo Agorhum, Naa Afoley Quaye and Kwame Adu Darkwa respectively. FROM Daniel Bampoe, Asuogyaman Nii Noi Nortey and Philip Kojo Addison 29.02.2016 LISTEN Celebrated lawyer Philip Kojo Addison over the weekend pulled a major surprise when he defied the odds to win the re-run parliamentary primary of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) in the Klottey Korle constituency. He beat Valentino Nii Noi Nortey to become the party's parliamentary candidate for the 2016 polls. Many were those who had tipped Nii Noi as the one likely to emerge the eventual winner of the closely-fought contest, having cruised to victory in the earlier contest. The re-run was ordered by a court after it had declared the earlier election (held last year) null and void. Both aspirants were satisfied with the activities surrounding the election, unlike the previous one when Addison claimed his supporters' names were not in the album. But supporters of Nii Noi are calling on him to go independent, especially since he stormed out of the venue before declaration of results and asked his agent not to append his signature on the results sheet. Both candidates had vowed to support each other after the polls. With the results out, it is not clear yet if Nii Noi will hold on to his earlier vow to support Addison. With the last-minute stepping down of Nii Adjei Tawiah, who threw his weight behind Philip Addison, it made the contest a straight fight between Nii Noi and the legal giant who rose to fame during the 2012 presidential petition hearing at the Supreme Court. The atmosphere at the party's national headquarters at Asylum Down in Accra, where the election was held, was enough to tell how hot the contest was going to be, with supporters of both sides chanting the names and slogans of their preferred candidates. But the mood changed when voting eventually came to an end at exactly 3pm. Of the 790 delegates who were expected to vote, 765 managed to cast their votes, with two votes rejected while the remaining 25 did not turn up. . While Nii Noi, former party chairman for the constituency, looked a bit tense, Addison seemed a bit relaxed, sipping a bottle of water. Not too long thereafter, counting began in earnest and the supporters of Nii Noi, with bottles of Talcum powder in their hands, took to singing and dancing, believing it was a done deal for their candidate. That euphoria was, however, short-lived after the counting of the votes garnered by Nii Noi, who secured 367 out of the valid votes cast. The signs looked brighter for Addison who hit his hand on a table close by and took another sip of water, having a premonition of a victory ahead. He started beaming with smiles when his votes went past those of his contender, well assured of victory. By the close of counting, Addison, who was wearing an all-white apparel, had garnered 396 votes to beat Nii Noi with 23 difference to the surprise of many, especially supporters of Nii Noi, most of whom became agitated and started expressing disappointment, with some questioning the credibility of the election. But an obviously bemused Nii Noi could no longer hold on to the hope he was nursing than to shake hands with an all-smiling Addison, the former apparently conceding defeat. Moments later, the young man stood up and walked to his lawyer and friend, Garry Nimako, only to be sandwiched and whisked away by his supporters, some of whom were seething with anger. Even though supporters of the defeated candidate are pushing him to go independent and have sworn that No Nii Noi, No Vote, Addison has indicated his preparedness to reach out to his opponent and supporters in the larger interest of the party. Lawyer Addison, in an interview with the media, said: I feel vindicated; it has been one year now since we started the process The media blitz has been predominantly negative. So today I feel vindicated by the results. It has been one year of wrangling, insults, what have younow today it is all over. Today is the time to start building bridges and friendships that bring the party together. That starts today. Addison will now face Dr Zanetor Rawlings who clinched the NDC slot but the incumbent, Nii Armah Ashietey, has dragged her to court over non-possession of voter's card. The case is still being heard in court. By Charles Takyi-Boadu Gifty Twum-Ampofo 29.02.2016 LISTEN Six New Patriotic Party (NPP) members in the Abuakwa North constituency of the Eastern Region have picked nomination forms and have been vetted by the regional branch of the party to contest in the parliamentary primary scheduled for Tuesday. The election will take place at the New Tafo CRIG Centre from 8am to 1pm, with 375 delegates from the 64 electoral areas expected to elect a candidate for the March 29, 2016 by-election. The Eastern Regional first vice chairman of the NPP, Alhaji Umar Bondinga, who confirmed this to DAILY GUIDE, said the measure was taken by the party following the death of Joseph Boakye Danquah-Adu, who was stabbed to death at his Shiashie residence in Accra on 9th February, 2016. He said the party had to elect a parliamentary candidate to contest the by-election with the ruling National Democratic Congress' (NDC's) Anthony Gyimah. Speculations are rife that the NDC might drop its candidate for Victor Smith, a defeated parliamentary candidate during the 2012 polls and now Ghana's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. The NPP parliamentary aspirants, including Gifty Twum Ampofo, president of the Science Teachers' Association of the Eastern Region, from Kukurantumi; Isaac Osei Ampadu, a licensed auctioneer and timber merchant from Anyinisi; Kyei Brobbey, immediate past headmaster of Ofori Panin Senior High School, from Old Tafo; Professor Emeritus Samuel Amoako, former Abuakwa North MP; Owusu Twum-Ampofo aka Pataku, former headmaster of Nkawkaw Senior High School and Lawyer Amoah Kay Jnr, have all been vetted. According to the regional first vice chairman, Lawyer Amoah Kay Jnr, who lost the parliamentary primary to the late Joseph Boakye Danquah-Adu in June last year, showed up for the exercise but after the vetting, he declared his intention to withdraw from the race and throw his weight behind Gifty Twum Ampofo on Sunday. Alhaji Umar Bondinga, who also expressed interest, later stepped down due to what he termed 'personal reasons.' DAILY GUIDE after the vetting, gathered that majority of the constituents at Kukurantumi stormed the party premises where the vetting took place to declare their support for Mrs Gifty Twum Ampofo. . Some of Lawyer Amoah Kay's supporters who spoke to DAILY GUIDE said they were going to campaign and vote for Mrs Twum Ampofo to win the parliamentary primary and also the upcoming by-election. Barely 24 hours to the parliamentary primary, this paper noted that the contenders were busily campaigning. Meanwhile, the Electoral Commission will on Tuesday open nominations for interested parties to pick forms towards the by-election. The family of the late JB Danquah-Adu is feverishly preparing towards the burial and the final funeral rites of the late MP, which has been slated for 19th March at Akyem Tafo. FROM Daniel Bampoe, Akyem-Kukurantumi 29.02.2016 LISTEN At the inaugural speech of US President John F Kennedy in January 1961, he made a profound statement which has become very popular. His inaugural address, the first delivered to a televised audience in colour, is considered one of the best presidential inaugural speeches in American history. According to records, his address took 13 minutes and 42 seconds to deliver from the first word to the last word, excluding the applause at the end, making it the fourth-shortest inaugural address ever delivered. As part of the speech, he said, And so, my fellow Americans: ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country. These words of President Kennedy seem to describe the MTN Heroes of Change programme. For the benefit of those who have not been following the MTN Heroes of Change programme, this programme was launched by the MTN Ghana Foundation in July 2013 with the aim of identifying and recognizing selfless people who continue to sacrifice their time and resources to improve their communities and brighten lives. Dr. Abrokwa-Yenkyira, a plastic surgeon and Founder of Grafts Foundation, emerged the ultimate winner in the maiden edition of MTN Heroes of Change in 2014. The 2016 event was won by Paulina Opei, Founder of 'Save our Lives Orphanage' and a trained nurse. For the past 22 years, Madam Paulina committed her life to caring for babies who had lost their mothers through child birth. Her reward was a GH100,000, which is to be used to expand her facilities and improve her work. If I were to crown you the MTN Hero of Change what would you have done with that money? Madam Paulina was not the only person who was rewarded. She was honoured alongside nine other people who had all been nominated by members of their communities for impacting their societies positively. Before the awards event, the stories of the heroes had been aired on seven TV stations and on social media. The 13-week event ended with an awards night which for me is one of the best organized events I have been to recently. At the awards ceremony, all 10 heroes, made up of three women and seven men, were rewarded by MTN for their contributions to the development of their communities. Speaking at the event, CEO of MTN Ghana, Ebenezer Asante said the stories of the heroes should challenge all of us to go the extra mile in everything we do. For us at MTN, the greatest result we expect to realize from this project is to see more heroes being borne. As the heroes walked up stage to collect their awards one after the other, I started questioning my own relevance in society beyond my family, church and work. . I believe that many of us see ourselves as heroes and we may be to some extent, but the stories of these 10 people go beyond the ordinary. I pay tribute to every single one of the top 10 finalists for their heroism. Dr Emmanuel Bidzakin, the medical doctor who set up a facility in Nakpanduri, Rev Jehu Appiah who cares for mentally and physically challenged children in Apam and Nayina Karim, who is passionate about improving malnutrition amongst children in his community. I also commend Yvonne Boaduaa, who set up a training facility for physically challenged persons and Salome Francois who established the New Horizon School 40 years ago to support children with disabilities. I will like to applaud Isaac Adjaottor, a Community Health Worker, who set up Farm for School and uses the proceeds to pay the school fees of deprived children and Emmanuel Quartey, who established the JAYNii Streetwise Foundation that helps street children acquire skills in music and the arts. Well done to Nicholas Kumah, who also takes care of street children and Paul Semeh, who has an NGO called Street Children Empowerment Fund, which seeks to rescue children from the street and put them in school. The 10 Heroes of change are icons and role models who need to be celebrated. All of them had emotional stories to tell. Not only that, they also showed the pragmatic ways in which they tried to solve the problem they had encountered. The 10 heroes have shown us one thing that all of us can help in transforming our nation, with or without the help of government. They have thought us a lot of lessons, one being the fact that you have to work hard to succeed in whatever endeavor you find yourself. They were also proactive in identifying problems and finding solutions to it. The heroes are also good planners; with limited resources they all had to formulate a plan to keep their dreams alive. The heroes did not ask their country what she will do to solve the problems they were seeing around them. Rather, they decided to take action. I conclude once again with the words of John Kennedy, who in that same speech ended by saying, finally, whether you are citizens of America or citizens of the world, ask of us here the same high standards of strength and sacrifice which we ask of you. With a good conscience our only sure reward, with history the final judge of our deeds, let us go forth to lead the land we love, asking His blessing and His help, but knowing that here on earth God's work must truly be our own. Let's all go out and make a change in the world. 29.02.2016 LISTEN The operators of Bread and Wine, an Italian restaurant operating at Osu in Accra, say they may end their operations in Ghana if electricity bills of the eatery remain high after an audit ordered by Deputy Minister of Power, John Abdulai Jinapor. The restaurant had served notice of its impending closure following high electricity tariffs from Electricity Company of Ghana (ECG). The company said the charges by the ECG cannot reflect their consumption, but their complaints fell on deaf ears, as ECG officials asked them to leave the country if they were not comfortable with the charges. The company decided to close the business in the next few weeks. Dear friends and clients, after receiving couple of electricity ECG bills, GH30,000 per month (7,000 Euros, a month), we are sorry to announce that Bread and Wine will close its doors at the end of March 2016, a Facebook post from the company said. We tried to explain to ECG that we are only using our ACs (air-conditioners) during lunch and dinner time, therefore that consumption of electricity is impossible. Their answer was if you are not happy, go back to your country, it added. These outrageous electricity bills compelled the deputy minister to visit the restaurant on Friday. He called for audit of the metre as well as power consumption of the restaurant that employs about 60 Ghanaians. . However, the manager of the restaurant, who gave his name as Nicholas, insisted that they will close down the eatery should the tariffs remain the same after the audit. The Minister will do what he has to do. He cannot give me a solution, he is now looking into the problem and as to whether we are closing or not, it will depend on the outcome. But they have to understand that if the bill remains the same, this place cannot operate because a restaurant cannot generate enough money to pay a bill of GH30,000, he charged. Mr Jinapor directed the Energy Commission and ECG to investigate and explain the astronomical charges at the restaurant through the audit of the metering system of Bread and Wine. The meter was changed and the bill went up, and so we would have to find out why it went up. Was it that the previous meter was faulty and was not reading properly or the new meter is reading astronomically? I think that when we do the audit, we can determine that and so I have directed that the Energy Commission and the ECG do what they call a test runthey will have a parallel meter alongside the current meter and that will determine whether first of all the meter is reading properly. I am sure by Wednesday we will get the results, the Minister told Citi FM. Many Ghanaians have complained of exorbitant charges following an increase of 59.2 percent in electricity tariff last December. This might be one case but we intend rolling it out. All districts should carry out an audit of the metering system. It is possible, you never know, machines could be faulty. It is too early to draw conclusions. But let's do a general audit because I have also had complaints from another hotel indicating that their bills are high and as a government we cannot sit unconcerned. We have to take steps to ensure that we protect businesses. A DAILY GUIDE Report 29.02.2016 LISTEN Accra Brewery Limited (ABL), a leading player in the nation's beverage industry, has embarked on a training programme to equip retailers with some business skills. The training programme is to enable the retailers improve their trading activities. So far over 100 selected retailers at Sogakope, Volta Region; Saltpond and Mankessim, Central Region, as well as Sekondi in the Western Region have been taken through the training dubbed, 'Retailer Development Programme (RDP).' The programme is in line with the company's sustainable development agenda of creating a thriving world by accelerating growth and social development through its value chain. The RDP is to ensure responsible sale, consumption and advertising of the various alcoholic products of the company. It further aims at empowering the retailers to adopt and implement best business practices and skills that will ultimately lead to growth in their operations. The retailers are being taken through courses under four modules such as Running My Beer Business; Basic Business Skills; Responsible Retailing and Personal Money Management. . The programme is being facilitated by ABL's Sales Development Manager Franklin Addae and Cyrus deGraft-Johnson, Corporate Affairs Manager. Under the initiative, which is expected to reach over 200 retailers by the end of March 2016, retailers from Brekum, Bibiani, Sewfi Wiaso and Navrongo would be trained. Speaking at the training session at Sekondi, Cyrus deGraft-Johnson told the media that the initiative is being implemented globally by many subsidiaries of SABMiller, ABL's parent company. One of our ambitions is to create a thriving world by directly supporting over half a million small enterprises to enhance their business growth and livelihood, he said. The retailers commended ABL for the initiative, stating that the training had broadened their knowledge. A Business Desk report 29.02.2016 LISTEN The introduction of the Electronic and Vessel Monitoring Systems has enabled the Fisheries Commission to rake in a whopping GH6 million from fines. The monitoring systems have also helped to curtail Illegal Unreported Unregulated (IUU) fishing in the country. The Commission made this known at the second National Steering Committee of stakeholders of the Monitoring for Environment and Security in Africa (MESA) in Accra. MESA is part of the Economics Community of West African States (ECOWAS) Coastal and Maritime Thelma which is meant to resolve territorial conflicts among artisanal fishermen and semi-industrial vessel operators. Godfrey Baido Tsibu of the Fisheries Commission said fishing vessels, who were caught engaged in IUU in Ghana's territorial waters by the MESA Project have so far paid over GH4 million in fines to the Commission. He said the monitoring system has also brought to an end to the issue of pair trawling which troubled many artisanal fishermen in the past. Baido Tsibu said issues of fishing in foreign waters have been brought under control since the introduction of the MESA project, adding that the Commission has put measures in place to eliminate IUU and foreign vessels. . Baido Tsibu said 25 to 30 percent of fish caught through IUU are unreported and the affected countries lose close to $23 billion every year, explaining that the beneficiaries use these monies to buy guns to fuel conflicts in some part of the world. Establish By-Laws Eunice Nuerkie Ofoli-Anum, National Focus Person (NFP) for the MESA project, urged the artisanal fishermen council to set up by-laws that will sanction fisher folks who will violate the safety regulations of the Commission. She gave assurance that the Commission was working to have fix transponders on all 12,000 canoes operating in the country to control illegal fishing and ensure safety in the industry. [email protected] Cephas Larbi Paul Otuteye presenting the items to the police 29.02.2016 LISTEN Simart Pharmacy has donated some office equipment and medical supplies to the Ashaiman Divisional Police Command as part of measures to improve and motivate personnel of the Ghana Police Service (GPS). Presenting the items, Simon Otuteye, director of Simart Pharmacy, explained that the donation was his widows mite towards motivating the police in the region. He was optimistic that the items would go a long way to help solve some challenges confronting the Police Service, especially the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unity (DOVVSU). Mr Otuteye further pledged to furnish the police with new cutting-edge modern equipment to respond quickly and more effectively when dealing with security operations. Divisional Police Commander of Ashaiman, Chief Superintendent F. S. Adikah, who received the items on behalf of the Ghana Police Service, assured the people of the area of adequate security for smooth and peaceful elections. He commended the company for the gesture, asking other institutions in the municipality to also support the police to fight crime. From Vincent Kubi, Ashaiman 29.02.2016 LISTEN Michael Sjodin (left) and Rebecca Akufo-Addo (right) inspecting the building Infanta Malaria Prevention Foundation (IMPF), a non-governmental organisation, has constructed the very first clinic in Adenkerebi in the Ga East Municipality, close to the Akuapim Hills. The hospital which was constructed at the cost of GH250,000 will serve Adenkerebi, Ayim, Agyemanti, Senpue and Kponkpo communities. Inesfly Africa as part of its support to the community painted the whole building with some of its insecticide treated paints. The clinic is expected to service and contribute to the reduction in malaria cases, giving the residents a fighting chance of survival and long life. Presently in the Ga East Municipality, malaria is the leading cause of ill-health. Recent health data indicated 42 percent of all illness in the area was from malaria. The municipality has 49,000 people to one doctor and 2,254 people to one nurse. Only 32 percent of deliveries are done under the supervision of a trained health professional. Adenkrebi and the surrounding villages are hard to reach because they are in remote rural hills. . Rebecca Akufo-Addo, chairperson of Infanta Malaria Prevention Foundation, in her remarks, expressed joy for handing over the project to the Ghana Health Services Regional Health Directorate and the Adenkrebi community. Infanta Malaria Prevention Foundation (IMPF) was formed with the aim of combating malaria through collaboration with leaders in malaria research and through educational and social projects across urban and rural Ghana. We are committed to providing all resources possible for mothers to stay alive, stay in sound health and be able to take care of their children healthily, she said. Michael Sjodin, chief executive officer (CEO) of Inesfly Africa, said the companys mission is to contribute through their innovative solutions to the improvements of the environment and help eradicate the endemic diseases affecting the human race. As part of our development, we aim to effect change in the places that need it the most and working alongside IMPF who shares the same vision as us goes a long way in helping the citizens of Adenkrebi and the surrounding towns, he said. The handing over ceremony was attended by the Ghana Health Service, Nana Addo Kweku I, chief of Brekusu, Dr Julius Afedi Dadebo, municipal director of Health Services and Kwaw Sackey, municipal chief executive. By Cephas Larbi [email protected] Absenteeism in the workplace costs South Africa between R12 billion and R16 billion each year in lost productivity. But a new study reveals that a good manager can help reduce employee sick days and boost output at work. A new study by UK Company Business in the Community shows that managers are even more important in the workplace than previously thought able to reduce stress and mental distress among employees, leading to a reduction in absenteeism at work. This study says that managers play a vital role in spotting signs of employee stress, anxiety and depression. The report demonstrates a clear link between employee wellbeing and business performance and promotes tools for developing mental health literacy in managers within the workplace. Occupation Care South Africa (OCSA) as well as Statistics South Africa claim that on any given day, over 15% of staff could be absent. More worryingly, they also believe that two out of three employees who fail to show up at the office are not physically ill but are rather battling to cope or are unhappy at work. A 2015 Bloomberg study ranked South Africa as the second most stressed out country in the world with Nigeria coming in first place. In 2015, the Johannesburg office of the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG) received 400 calls on average per day from distressed people. Management development expert Bruce MacDonald says being a manager means by definition that people are being managed. It is all about relationships and how to manage other people. This means being empathic and genuine and understanding what drives individuals. He explains, Many employers think what employees really want is more money, but what employees really crave is recognition and feedback, says MacDonald. MacDonald is the convenor of the UCT Graduate School of Business (GSB) Programme for Management Development (PMD). He says too often people are promoted to management positions in recognition for their outstanding technical skills, underestimating the importance that people skills and knowledge of human behaviour have on employee performance. He quotes research by the University of new South Wales, which surveyed 5 600 people in 77 companies and found that the single, greatest influence on productivity was the ability of leaders to spend more time developing and recognising their staff, giving feedback and fostering co-operation. Samantha Crous, Regional Director Africa and Benelux at the Top Employers Institute (TEI) says many companies fail to take into account how burn-out can affect staff morale and health. TEI statistics show that assistance offered to employees suffering from burnout increased significantly from 36% in 2013 to 46% in 2014. In the UK, 44% of certified Top Employers have in-house doctors available for staff and some kind of stress management training or support. Other companies encourage wellness by offering yoga or tai chi classes. But MacDonald says good management goes beyond offering wellbeing programmes there is no substitute to really being able to listen to employees. Participants on the two-week PMD programme learn about general management as well as how to communicate and listen. Believe it or not there are techniques for this, he says. GSB Director Professor Walter Baets says, PMD has expanded from a South African course to a programme with up to 70% of participants coming from outside the countrys borders. Up to 10 different African countries are represented at a time. It has become the most diverse management development programme in Africa. MacDonald, who has run the programme for 17 years, says, There are many examples of how the programme has benefited organisations financially, for example, the manager of one of the big four SA retail organisations used a Systems Thinking methodology that he picked up on this course to redesign the logistical processes in his region, resulting in savings of about R10 million in the first year. For MacDonald a healthy bottom line is just one way to measure the impact of a good manager. A good manager is somebody who knows him or herself well, understands how human beings function under pressure and how to really communicate. It is not as easy as it sounds. If you can get it right then you will see your team and your organisation flourish. He concludes, There is no science behind it. Management is not a fact or a formula you can follow; there is an art to understanding how to manage people to ensure that they are happy, productive and want to come to work each day. President John Dramani Mahama has noted it is within the right of the opposition to criticize him over his achievements, but that will not stop him from touting his success. Mahama gave account of his stewardship over the past one year in Parliament last Thursday, emphasizing how the road, health and other sectors have seen massive transformation, but the main opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP) said the president embarked on mere propaganda. The flagbearer of the NPP Nana Akufo-Addo at an event dubbed: The Real State of the Nation Address, argued Ghana is rather a nation in crisis. Also, the leader of the Progressive Peoples Party (PPP) Dr Papa Kwesi Nduom described Mahamas presentation as a theatrical performance which must not be condoned again in Ghanas Parliament. Reacting to the claims via his official Facebook account, Mahama said: The opposition is exercising its democratic right to criticize, which is a proof that we are living in a healthy democracy. However, it would be wrong to try to minimize our achievements and the depth of Ghanas transformation in the last three years. For me, as President, these last three years are a story of hope a hope shared by so many of us. This is because what we have been able to achieve so far is for all of us, and it was made possible only through the continuous participation of all of us. Below is the full statement: I have always believed in the tremendous power that exists within every single Ghanaian: the power to influence the course of events and the power to shape the future of this great nation of ours. It is with this belief that I took office as President four years ago, and it is with this same belief that last week I delivered my State of the Nation Address. The opposition is exercising its democratic right to criticize, which is a proof that we are living in a healthy democracy. However, it would be wrong to try to minimize our achievements and the depth of Ghanas transformation in the last three years. For me, as President, these last three years are a story of hope a hope shared by so many of us. This is because what we have been able to achieve so far is for all of us, and it was made possible only through the continuous participation of all of us. The most important fact about the transformative stories I shared last week, the most fundamental truth about them is that they are not my achievements, they are our achievements! They are Ghanas achievements! Step by step, we built something important, something that lays the foundation for irreversible improvements in the lives of all of us! We worked hard every day, we kept the faith, we kept moving forward this is how we achieved all this! Together we are changing lives, one individual at a time. These are our achievements! This is why I will keep talking about them because when I talk about them I am honouring each and every one of you! 29.02.2016 LISTEN Presidential candidate of the opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP), Nana Akufo-Addo, has said the business of governing a country is a serious business. He said the way the governing National Democratic Congress (NDC) is going about activities in the country amounted to an embarrassing exercise in mediocrity. Addressing the nation in what the NPP calls the real state of the nation address at the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Nana Addo said the country is in a state of crisis. According to Nana Addo, The economy is on a reverse trend. Citing some challenges Ghana have had to content with under Mahama's watch, Nana Addo mentioned the situation of teacher trainees whose allowances have been cancelled by the government. The challenges of the health system which he described as a virtual return of the cash and carry system also featured prominently in his speech. Other issues like the crisis water shortages facing the country as well as bush fires and rising unemployment among the youths. Nana Addo criticised the rebranding of the 116 Metro Mass buses provided the government with an avenue to bleed the nation. Reacting to President Mahamas State of the nation address last Thursday in Parliament, Nana said the President was theatrical before the nation instead of treating the occasion with all the seriousness it deserves. He said the President chose to talk about only the good side of his government leaving out the many sordid situations in the country. This is a good news storytelling President, he said. Nana said he had traveled across the length and breadth of the country in much of his adult life and every time he is greeted by the hardship of the people. I have seen poverty, I have seen suffering, he said and that the President failed to address the challenges facing the country. He expressed surprise He says reckless borrowing by the government is responsible for closing the fiscal space of capital investment in the country. Reckless borrowing debt stock of 73% beyond the threshold, he said. Nana says amateurism and panic measures taken as well as the plundering of the public purse by some government officials have sent many Ghanaians into hardship. Story by Ghana | Myjoyonline.com |Austin Brako-Powers |[email protected]/instagram: @realbrakopowers The opposition is exercising its democratic right to criticize, which is a proof that we are living in a healthy democracy, President John Dramani Mahama said on Facebook in reaction to NPP's SONA . This was in quick reaction to Nana Addo, flagbearer of opposition New Patriotic Party (NPP)'s speech which Nana called the true State of the Nation Address (SONA). Held at the College of Physicians and Surgeons in Accra on Monday, the NPP criticised the President for not painting the real state of the nation in his SONA presented in Parliament last Thursday. In reaction to the NPP's criticism, the President took to his Facebook page to post this. "I have always believed in the tremendous power that exists within every single Ghanaian: the power to influence the course of events and the power to shape the future of this great nation of ours. It is with this belief that I took office as President four years ago, and it is with this same belief that last week I delivered my State of the Nation Address. The opposition is exercising its democratic right to criticize, which is a proof that we are living in a healthy democracy. However, it would be wrong to try to minimize our achievements and the depth of Ghanas transformation in the last three years. For me, as President, these last three years are a story of hope a hope shared by so many of us. This is because what we have been able to achieve so far is for all of us, and it was made possible only through the continuous participation of all of us. The most important fact about the transformative stories I shared last week, the most fundamental truth about them is that they are not my achievements, they are our achievements! They are Ghanas achievements! Step by step, we built something important, something that lays the foundation for irreversible improvements in the lives of all of us! We worked hard every day, we kept the faith, we kept moving forward this is how we achieved all this! Together we are changing lives, one individual at a time. These are our achievements! This is why I will keep talking about them because when I talk about them I am honouring each and every one of you!" File Photo 29.02.2016 LISTEN A supportive learning environment is essential for education to be successful. Corporal punishment inhibits a conducive learning environment and leads to high rates of dropouts. This ultimately impacts the economic and social growth of countries, when its youth are largely unskilled and untrained. According to research from Human Rights Watch (HRW), corporal punishment teaches, boys and girls that violence is acceptable when used against a weaker person. Research by psychologists has also uncovered a connection between corporal punishment and permitting or purporting domestic violence later in life (HRW). In Ghana, corporal punishment in schools, especially public schools, is popular. Teachers subject students to whipping, and causing degrees of physical pain and discomfort as a form of punishment for wrongs done. This has resulted in some students becoming fearful of the school system and neglecting school, opting instead to roam on the streets and engage in unapproved activities whiles their peers are in school. ActionAid Ghana, with the support of the Big Lottery Fund, UK, is implementing a multi-country project called Stop Violence Against Girls in School (SVAGS). Under this project, ActionAid Ghana is collaborating with the Ghana National Education Campaign Coalition (GNECC) and Songtaba, a local community non-governmental organisation. Feedback from the project districts indicate that one of the major issues affecting school management today is Corporal Punishment (CP). An alternative to this is Positive Discipline. Positive Discipline Approach (PDA) is a discipline model to be used by schools in Ghana to promote the positive points of behaviour, based on the idea that there are no bad children, just good and bad behaviours. ActionAid Ghana believes that bad behaviours exhibited by children can be stopped and positive ones reinforced without inflicting physical, emotional, and verbal abuse. By engaging in Positive Discipline, teachers focus on actively assisting their students to learn while remaining calm, friendly and respectful toward the student. The PDA is a set of techniques that are intended to be used in combination to ensure dealing with children in schools is effectively managed. Apart from promoting safe school environment for children, the bigger dimension of Corporal Punishment is seen more as a child protection issue. The Child Protection Network (CPN) in Ghana is in the process of finalising a comprehensive child protection policy. What is Positive Discipline? This is an approach designed to teach young people to become responsible, respectful and resourceful members of their communities. Positive Discipline teaches important social and life skills in a manner that is deeply respectful, and encourages both children and adults, especially teachers, to respect the rights of children. In Positive Discipline: Creating respectful relationships in homes and schools, Jane Nelson extols the virtues of Positive Discipline in the following: Helps children feel a sense of connection (belonging and significance) It is mutually respectful and encouraging. It is effective in the long term. Teaches important social and life skills. Invites children to discover how capable they are. The following scenario illustrates instances where Positive Discipline can be used: Scenario: Making noise in class and disruptive behaviour Kofi: I was feeling good today. I was telling funny stories and everyone was laughing. The teacher tried to tell me to stop talking, but I wanted to show everyone that I was not afraid. I am tough and cant be bossed around by a teacher. Kofis teacher: I have to ensure that they fear me in this class. Otherwise, they will just get out of control and I will not be able to teach. The students will take over and other teachers will laugh at me. I will put Kofi in his place by embarrassing him publicly and beating him. I will make an example out of Kofi so that students will not dare to show disrespect by making noise in my class. What are the positive discipline alternatives? In this case, Kofi may be trying to get some attention and praise rather than wanting to be disruptive for the sake of it. Some alternatives to consider: a) The teacher could begin the term by developing class ground rules. The class would agree on these rules together. These rules may include: No side talking during the lessons. All the lessons will start and finish on time. The teacher will not humiliate students if they dont know the answer to a question. Students will take responsibility for trying hard by asking questions when they dont understand. Everyone will respect each other in class. If a person breaks any of the rules, the teacher will take an appropriate action already discussed with the class. In the case of persistent offenders, the class disciplinary committee will follow pre-written guidelines to determine the appropriate discipline. b) The teacher could get Kofi to write a letter to the class regarding his behaviour and what effect he thinks it has on the class. He should also propose solutions to the problem (his misbehaviour). c) The teacher could exclude Kofi from the class for 10 minutes to help him reflect on his actions and make time to cover up what he has missed during instructional time at break period or closing time. d) Advising him to improve upon his conduct and making him feel at ease and giving him a role in class. e) The class should come together and write to Kofi and inform him that his actions have been affecting the class. f) Taking a negative behaviour and attention and turning it into a positive one, cultivating the ability to influence others. g) Consider children with special needs h) Kofi can be given a leadership role so as to check him So far, ActionAid Ghana has liaised with some school authorities across the regions in our operational areas to pilot the use of the Positive Discipline Approach in schools. One of such schools is the Kong Junior High School, which is a pilot of the project for three years. The Head teacher of the school, Nankpa Jibril, praised the project for helping to strengthen the bond between teachers and students. It has impacted a lot and made the children more confident. If they know something is wrong, they are able to talk and are not timid. He, however, emphasised that due to the culture in Ghana, most teachers were finding it difficult to implement the Positive Discipline Approach, where students were becoming aloof and disrespectful towards teachers. Positive Discipline is a coin with two sides. My advice is that the children should also be made aware that their rights come hand-in-hand with responsibilities. Deborah Smallie Lomotey Communications Officer ActionAid Ghana 29.02.2016 LISTEN In this weeks Reality Check on Upfront on Al Jazeera English, host Mehdi Hasan questions Chinas latest economic figures. "The country hit its growth target for 14 out of the last 15 years. And the one time they missed it, it was by 0.1 percent. It seems almost too good to be true. So what if it isn't true? asks Hasan. Chinas main stock market index took a 30% plunge in June and July last year, industrial production has dropped, and so have retail sales, but official growth numbers have remained uncannily stable since 2012. As Hasan says, "The problem with measuring the size of the Chinese economy is that in terms of hard data, you pretty much have to take the governments word for it. And sometimes their word isnt worth much. Hasan references Chinese officials who admitted that official figures were inflated. For example, Wikileaks revealed that one of Chinas most senior leaders, Li Kequiang, privately admitted that the GDP figures were "man made," and quote "All other figures, especially GDP statistics, are for reference only, he said smiling, according to the cable. Li Kequiang apparently uses another method to measure his country's economic performance and, according to that unofficial index, Chinas growth has more than halved since 2013. This isn't a Western or anti-Chinese conspiracy, says Hasan. "Theyre saying it themselves. Nobodys questioning the fact that the Chinese economy has been booming over the last few decades, or that poverty has been slashed, but it now seems pretty obvious they've also been fiddling a lot of their figures along the way. So next time you hear the Chinese dragon yet again has been hitting all its economic targets, maybe think myth, not miracle. Watch the two-minute Cape Town (AFP) - A woman accused of kidnapping a newborn baby and raising her as her own child for 17 years wept in a South African court Monday as she described her arrest. It was the first time the 50-year-old woman, who has pleaded not guilty, had shown emotion in the week-long trial in the Western Cape High Court. She was arrested on February 26 last year after DNA tests had shown that she was not the baby's biological mother, and she was barred from seeing the girl again. "That was the last time I saw her," she said, before her face crumpled and she sobbed. Outside the court, the kidnapped girl's biological father, Morne Nurse, told reporters: "The emotion she is feeling now, we've been feeling for 18 years." The accused woman cannot be named to protect the identity of the kidnapped girl, who requested protection from the international media over the sensational case. Last week, the girl's mother, Celeste Nurse, 36, told how she woke up in the maternity ward to find her three-day-old baby had vanished from the cot by her side on March 30 1997. The Nurse family was reunited with their daughter -- whom they had named Zephany -- in February last year after an astonishing coincidence. When a younger daughter of the Nurses began attending high school, pupils pointed out her remarkable likeness to a final year student. The younger girl told her parents, who met the older girl and immediately believed she was their long-lost baby. They called the police, and DNA tests confirmed that the girl was indeed Zephany. Local reports suggest that the trauma of the case led the girl to drop out of her final year of school and that the 18-year-old is now living with her boyfriend. Morne Nurse told AFP outside the court that her biological parents had "a bit of contact still" with Zephany, but would not comment further. The accused kidnapper told the court that after a miscarriage in December 1996 she paid a woman who promised to find her a child to adopt. In early April 1997 she was handed a baby wrapped in a blanket at a train station in Cape Town, she said. She had not told her husband of her miscarriage, so presented the baby to him as their own child, she said. She was not cross-examined on her evidence as the prosecutor was unavailable, and the case was postponed by Judge John Hlophe until next Monday. She faces a minimum of five years in jail if convicted of kidnapping. Tension is mounting at Kotei, a suburb of Kumasi, as the youth of town are bracing themselves up against the continued wanton sale of land and destruction of water bodies in the area. The youth are accusing Opanin Kofi Adu, a self-styled chief of the community, said to be behind the sale of the lands. What has angered the youth is Opanin Adu's alleged trespass to sell portions of the community cemetery. Mr. Kofi Nkansah, leader of the youth is fuming about the contamination of River Daakye, the only source of water in the town. According to the Youth leader, the river has been blocked with heaps of sand besides the sale of waterway to prospective developers. They appealed to the Asantehene, Otumfuo Osei Tutu II to expedite the determination of the Kotei chieftaincy matter to enable the town install a new chief to enhance development. Opanin Atta Kwabena, a member of the Amoaye family, said to be the legitimate royals of Kotei confirmed that there is no chief in the town. He said the Obaapanin of the ton, Obaapanin Adutwumawaa has sojourned to the United States and that the Abusuapanin, who is now acting in a caretaker role, has no power to sell plots of land. When Opanin Kofi Adu was contacted, he denied all the charges and said he represented his late brother chief, when he fell ill, but denied selling any plot in the town. According to him, all the land that has been sold in the town were done by various royal family members who own those lands. From Sebastian R. Freiku, Kumasi 29.02.2016 LISTEN In recent years, Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) has increasingly been exposed to political discourse. This is as the result of the social and environmental effects that emanate from corporate activities in contemporary times. There is no denying the fact that corporations are critical actors in the political, economic, social and cultural development of all countries. Besides providing goods and services, they are a source of livelihood for many and they pay taxes effectively to the government to carry out social interventions. In North America, for instance, corporations, especially those in the extractive sector continue to play a leading role in economic growth and development. In 1993 for example, the extractive companys contribution to the Peruvian economy was represented by $240 million paid in taxes to the government; $400 million spent on local purchases; $280 million in imported goods and accounted for over 11% of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) (Acheampong, 2004). In Africa, the multinational corporations have had a significant impact on economic growth and development. In South Africa, for instance, gold mining companies alone contribute 27.4% in mineral revenues to the government and responsible for 56% of the countrys mine labour force (Mbendi Profile, 2005). Ghana, which is also Africas second most important producer of gold after South Africa has increased its contribution to gross foreign exchange earnings through the active role of the multinational corporations. For instance, the companies registered under the Ghana Chamber of Mines (GCM) employ over 17,500 people (Ghana Chamber of Mine, 2012). Moreover, the latest economic and financial data released by the Central Bank of Ghana indicated that gold mining companies earned the Ghanaian government a revenue of 3.5 billion dollars in 2015 alone (Myjoyonline, 2016). Notwithstanding the economic contribution of the multinational corporations, specifically mining companies, they are also bereft with challenges. Undisputedly, the negative environmental impact of surface mining, land alienation, poor compensation negotiations, forest destruction, water, air and land pollution, and importantly conflict between the companies and communities have caused heavy public criticisms against the companies. It is against this background that Agbesinyale (2003) observes the disagreement about the importance of the economic contribution of the mining companies in Ghanas socio-cultural development. In effect, the rampant public worries and displeasures against the companies at times develop into non-violent conflicts in the form of demonstrations, written threats to companies and withdrawal from the companys engagements (Newmont Ghana Gold Limited, 2011). Consequently, following the violent conflict in 2005 over land rights between the large-scale mining companies and community members at Tarkwa in the Western region of Ghana, in which two people were killed and thirteen injured, the mining companies faced a massive public condemnation as not a good partner in development (Stickler, 2006), since there cannot be development without peace. As Francis (2004) rightly puts, peace is a valuable public good and without peace, there cannot be development. Similarly, Quantson (2003) posits that peace is the basis for survival, stability, security and progress, hence no meaningful development can be achieved in the midst of lawlessness, confusion and chaos. Therefore, a discussion of the economic significance of the multinational corporations must address as its starting point the promotion of good governance, peace and security. It is against this backdrop that mining companies in recent years are practising CSR, thereby providing social interventions (like the construction of schools, roads, hospitals, clinics, water sources, electricity and recreational facilities, creating employment etc.) as a stop gap measure against the social factors (lawlessness, tensions, conflicts etc.) that could hinder them from maximising profits. In that regard, Amponsah-Tawiah and Dartey-Baah (2012) defined CSR as a strategic decision of an organisation to voluntarily act upon the social factors that have the potential of militating against the fulfilment of corporate goals. Although, CSR includes enhancing the social welfare and security of corporate staffs and their families, this article focuses only on the corporate responsibility in peace and security of the larger society. In other words, the social welfare and security of the greater number of people not part of the mining labour force. Generally, companies in Ghana have begun using CSR as the basis for addressing the physical, social and the natural resource loss to promote community livelihood empowerment and to enhance company-community relations necessary for peace and security. According to Garvin, McGee, Smoyer-Tomic and Aubynn (2009), in Ghana, CSR is, thus touted as an effective way to ameliorate company-community disagreements at the micro level. The large-scale companies have played and continue to play pivotal role in peace and security in the country. For instance, the Zoomlion Ghana Limited and the Jospong Group of Companies has provided a new elevator worth of $60,000 for the five-storey administration block of the Ghana Police Service Headquarters in Accra. The director of administration for Zoomlion Ghana, Mr Emmanuel Okomeng, said the provision of the elevator formed part of the companys corporate social responsibility. He reiterate that his company was committed to collaborating with the security services to enhance peace and security in areas where most interventions are needed (Graphic Online, 2013). Specifically, the Newmont Ghana Gold Limited (NGGL), one of the biggest multinational mining corporations in Ghana, located at the Asutifi North District in the Brong Ahafo region, continues to play a leading role in peace, security and development in the country via CSR. For example, since its operation in 2006, the company has undertaken diverse community development initiatives to increase access to potable water and sanitation facilities for twenty three thousand community people as a way of replacing the loss of quality water, without which could have generated into violent conflict. Again the company through its CSR has as well enhanced the capabilities of two thousand households in health, nutrition and education in its Asutifi North District mine (Newmont Ghana Gold Limited, 2005). Significantly, NGGL continues to support the Ghanaian security services with protective and defensive logistics and equipment to enable them maintain peace and enhance security in the country. In 2009, NGGL handed over a 140,000-dollar transit housings to the District Police Command at Kenyasi number 1. Aside that, NGGL provides 120 litres of fuel to the Kenyasi number 1 and 60 litres of fuel to the Duayaw Nkwanta police stations per week (Boateng, 2009). The purpose of these supports is to foster crime prevention, and enhance peace and security in the district. This is to say that, NGGL had accepted the fact that their negative activities on health, water quality and the social needs of the communities could slow peace and security. Hence, the Newmont Ahafo Development Foundation (NADeF), an office in charge of NGGLs CSR in the Asutifi North District. NADeF is established to implement NGGLs CSR projects to ensure that peace and security is prevailing in the communities. Besides NGGL, a number of mining companies in Ghana have embarked on various social interventions aimed at maintaining peace and promoting security. For example, four mining companies in the Prestea Huni/Valley District, namely, the Golden Star Resources (GSR), AEL mining services, Rockshure International, Erdmac mining services, and Karibiana Pools also constructed a 40,000-Ghana-Cedi Police Check Point, constituting a charge office, two rest rooms, washrooms, electricity and mechanised borehole at Tintimhwe. The aim of the facility is to enhance peace and security, and to curb the increasing robbery cases recorded in Tarkwa-Bogoso (All Ghana News, 2014). Furthermore, Roman, Hayibor and Agle (1999) in their meta-analysis of studies relating corporate social performance to corporate financial performance, found a trend suggesting that good CSR was, in fact, good for business financial performance, including promoting a peaceful atmosphere for business existence. Obviously, the above claims show that the business of business is not only business. In spite of these efforts, there is limited information and no single comprehensive framework document on CSR in Ghana exists (Afrane & Adjei-Poku, 2013). Based on Afrane and Adjei-Pokus observation, I recommend that key stakeholders and policy makers, including the Ghana Chamber of Mines, Ghanas Mineral Commission, Non-Governmental Organisations (NGOs). And Trade Union Congress, Ghanas Labour Commission, Ministry of Lands and Natural Resources, Ministry of Environment, Science and Technology etc. should work in partnership to draw a comprehensive policy framework regarding CSR and integrate it into Ghanas business laws. With this, CSR will not be a voluntary action on the part of corporations, but a mandatory obligation. Author: Abdul Karim Issifu (Senior Research Assistant/MPhil Candidate) Affiliation: University of Cape Coast, Ghana-Institute for Development Studies E-mail:[email protected] REFERENCES Acheampong, E. (2004). Impact assessment of mining activities by Ashanti Goldfields-Bibiani Limited on the environment and socio-economic development of Bibiani. Unpublished undergraduate dissertation, Faculty of Social Sciences, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Ghana. Afrane, S. K. & Adjei-Poku, B. (2013). Institutionalising corporate social responsibility for local community development: Process and outcomes. International Journal of Business and Social Science, Volume 4. No. 13, pp. 255-265. Agbesinyale, P. K. (2003). Ghanas gold rush and regional development The case of Wassa West District. Spring Research Series 44, 14364. All Ghana News (2014, June 3). Four mining companies provide Police with checkpoints. All Ghana News, http://www.allghananews.com . Amponsah-Tawiah, K. & Dartey-Baah, K. (2012). Corporate social responsibility in Ghana. International Journal of Business and Social Science Vol. 2 No. 17, pp. 107-112. Aubynn, E. A. (2003). Community perceptions of mining: An experience from Western Ghana. Master of Science thesis in Earth and Atmospheric Sciences (Published). Department of Earth and Atmospheric Sciences Edmonton, Alberta University. Boateng, M. (2009). Newmont Ghana gold supports police service. https://www.modernghana.com/news/233021/1/newmont-ghana-gold-supports-police-service.html . Francis, D. (2004). Uniting Africa, building regional security systems. London, Sage Publications. Garvin, T., McGee, T. K. Smoyer, K. E. & Aubynn, E. A. (2009). Community-Company relations in gold mining in Ghana. Journal of Environmental management, 90, pp. 571-586. Ghana Chamber of Mine, (2012). Performance of the mining industry available from http://ghanachamberofmines.org/media/publications/Performance_of_the_Ghana_Mining_Industry_in_2012.pdf.[Accessed: March 6, 2013]. Graphic Online (2013). Zoomlion, Jospong provide elevator to Police Headquarters. Ghana News Online, Graphic.com.gh . Mbendi Profile, (2005), Mining profile for Ghana. http://www.mbendi.co.za/indy/ming/gold/af/gh/p0005.htm . (Accessed 10 April 2015). Myjoyonline (2016, January 29). Gold, cocoa and crude oil exports yield $10bn in 2015. My joyonline.com, http://www.myjoyonline.com. Newmont Ghana Gold Limited (2011). Ahafo South resettlement negotiation committee minutes. Unpublished. Newmont Ghana Gold Limited. (2005). Environmental and social impact assessment. Unpublished report. Quantson, K. B. (2003). National security. Accra: NAPAS VIL VENTURES. Roman, R. M., Hayibor, S. & Agle, B. R. (1999). The relationship between social and financial performance, Business & Society, 38(1), 109-125. Stickler, A. (2006). Ghana's ruthless corporate gold rush. BBC File, On 4. Available,http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/programmes/file_on_4/5190588.stm [accessed 25 July 2006]. The Supreme Court will tomorrow, Tuesday, March 1, commence the hearing of a case in which two persons Margaret Bamful, an 86 year old retired officer of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Henry Nana Boakye, a student of the Ghana Law School have filed a suit against the Attorney General and Minister for the Interior against the importation of the two Guantanamo Bay detainees into the country. Madam Margaret Bamful and Henry Nana Boakye about a month ago filed a case against the Attorney General and Minister of Justice and Minister of Interior accusing President John Mahama of illegally bringing the two former Gitmo detainees into the country, without regards to the laws of the land. Unfortunately, both the Attorney General and the Minister of Interior have still not filed their defense to the suit, as at the time of going to press yesterday. The action of the two defendants thus constitutes a breach of the Supreme Court Rules, 1996 (C.I 16) which gives a defendant who has been served with a writ and statement of case 14 days to file a response. A search conducted at the registry of the Supreme Court, on February 9, 2016, revealed that the Attorney General and Minister of Interior were duly served with the plaintiffs' statement of case on January 22, 2016. The Supreme Court has further served on the two defendants a hearing notice, informing them that with or without their appearance, the case shall be called for hearing tomorrow. The plaintiffs are seeking among other reliefs a declaration that on a true and proper interpretation of Article 75 of the1992 Constitution of Ghana, the President of the Republic of Ghana acted unconstitutionally by agreeing to the transfer of Mahmud Umar Muhammad Bin Atef and Khalid Muhammad Salih Al-Dhuby (both profiled terrorists and former detainees of Guantanamo Bay) to the Republic of Ghana, without the ratification by an Act of Parliament or a resolution of Parliament supported by the votes of more than one-half of all the members of Parliament. They are further seeking a declaration that on a true and proper interpretation of Article 58(2) of the 1992 Constitution of Ghana, the President of the Republic of Ghana, who is under an obligation to execute and maintain the laws of Ghana breached the Anti-terrorism Act of 2008 (Act 762) and the Immigration Act of 2000 (Act 573), both being laws passed under the 1992 Constitution of Ghana. The plaintiffs also are seeking a declaration that President Mahama breached Article 58(2) of the 1992 Constitution by agreeing with the United States government to have the former Gitmo detainees transferred into the country. A declaration that on a true and proper interpretation of Article 58(2) of the 1992 constitution of Ghana, the President of Ghana is under the obligation to execute and maintain the anti-terrorism Act of 2008 (Act 762) and the Immigration Act of 2000 (Act 573), both being laws passed under the 1992 constitution of Ghana. The plaintiffs are also seeking a declaration that, according to chapter 5 of the 1992 constitution, President Mahama, by holding the former Gitmo detainees under restricted conditions, without a valid order from a court of competent jurisdiction is breaching their fundamental human rights and thus acting unconstitutional. The plaintiffs are asking the Supreme Court to declare that the receiving and continuous stay of the former Gitmo detainees in the country is unlawful. Furthermore, they are seeking an order directed at the Minister of Interior to, with immediate effect, return the two former Gitmo detainees from the country back to the United States of America and the award of cost for court expenses and counsel fees. By Richard Kofi Attenkah 29.02.2016 LISTEN Much has already been written and said about President John Dramani Mahama's State of the Nation address at Parliament House last Thursday. Like most things Ghanaian, opinion is sharply divided on the import of his speech. Trust officials and footsoldiers of the ruling National Democratic Congress to make a meal out of every word from the President, who is also presidential candidate of the party. From the floor of Parliament to street corners, the party faithful waited on every word from their leader. On the other hand, followers of the largest opposition party, the New Patriotic Party, swear by the heavens that the President's presentation was all noise without substance. Even in this divided society, it is possible for all of us to heed to the presidential call on all Ghanaians to ensure a clean election. We owe it to the future generation to comport ourselves, since elections have always brought out the emotions in our people. The admonition from the Head of State is, therefore, in order. The Chronicle buys into the presidential plea, and urges all Ghanaians to comport themselves and avoid intemperate language on the air and campaign grounds. The 2016 vote is very crucial to the progress of the Ghanaian society, and that is why everything should be done to ensure that there is peace before, during, and after the elections. It is important for the Electoral Commission and its officers to enjoy the support of the people in this difficult task of refereeing the vote. But, as the popular saying goes, there are two sides to every coin. The Electoral Commission should do its part of the bidding. The commission and its commissioners ought to be above board in their dealings with the people of this country, through the various political parties. In such a volatile atmosphere, presented by the run-up to the vote on November 7, the commission and its officers must not only be impartial, they must be seen to be neutral in all ways. Much heat was generated unnecessarily in the run-up to the 2012 presidential and legislative elections, following a news report that a top official of the EC had held a strategic meeting with the leadership of the NDC at a secret location somewhere in the Shai Hills. Following the meeting, trust was in short supply, as members of the various opposition parties accused the Electoral Commission of being in bed with the ruling party. Already, tempers are rising over the establishment of a Steering Committee by the EC, at the blind side of the various political parties. Apparently, a meeting of the Inter-Party Advisory Committee failed to resolve the impasse. While representatives of the various political parties left the meeting with the understanding that the so-called Steering Committee had been suspended, the Chairperson of the commission issued a statement emphasising that the committee was alive and kicking. The unresolved dispute over the electoral register is a major flash-point. The Chronicle is happy to note that the Supreme Court, the highest court of the land, had been invited to make a declaration on the issue. While we await the decision of the court, it is instructive for the National Peace Council to engage the leadership of the EC, especially its chair, Mrs. Charlotte Osei, to tone down on her utterances, some of which have been very provocative. Mrs. Osei has not endeared herself to many, especially, members of the opposition, some of whom harbour the thought that the EC Chairperson may be doing the bidding of her appointing authorities. While we are at it, it is important to warn the ruling elite not to take advantage of their positions to try and tilt the vote to their favour. The presentation of outboard motors at Tema the other day, with the effigy of President Mahama boldly embossed on them, could only amount to gerrymandering. We are unhappy too with the branding of state buses with the picture of President Mahama. The argument that the presidential picture appears with those of former constitutional heads of state does not hold water. The whole thing has been deliberately schemed to advertise President Mahama as Ghanaians prepare for the vote. This country is not a Communist state. While we prepare for the vote on November 7, let the experience of 23 years of deciding the fate of this country through the ballot box, be our guide. We owe it to ourselves to conduct a violent-free election. Yes, we can! 29.02.2016 LISTEN Leaders of Fulani Communities in Ghana have accused a section of the media of being biased against Fulanis to the extent that they associate every untoward act of herdsmen or cattle rearers to Fulanis. Prof. Osmanu Bari, National President of Fulanis in Ghana has said the distortion of the identity of Fulanis by the Ghanaian media of atrocious crimes is alarming and therefore must be stopped. He stated that they intend to petition President Mahama and the UN Secretary General Ban Kin Moon over what they describe as injustices being meted out to them in the country. The Fulanis have been blamed for a number of attacks and destruction to property in parts of the country with farmers in the Ashanti region particularly Agogo most affected. He noted that the Ghanaian media, which is the tool for public education and information has over the past few years painted a bad picture about the Fulanis in this country. According to him, the situation has created a negative impression about the Fulanis in Ghana. Prof. Bari, added that the media have wrongly misrepresented the Fulanis by describing them as robbers, rapists, murderers and assassins. He cited that some media publications and radio commentaries have created a public perception that all Fulanis are herdsmen and they mostly live in the bush to perpetrate crime. Not every Fulani man is a herdsman. We have other tribes who are herdsmen. We have Fulanis who are Ghanaian indigenes by birth. We have Fulanis working in all the government and private sectors as doctors, military officers, bankers, teachers, journalists and many other disciplines. They are all working for the good of mother Ghana so therefore why tarnish our image, he intimated. He said, they are worried at the spate which the media is tarnishing the image of Fulanis in this country. According to him, the Fulanis have lost 250 lives over the past two years, over 500 cattle have been shot to death with some taken away in an open day robbery by some assailants in the communities. He appealed to the Ghanaian media to delink the crime from the tribe and allow the law to deal directly with individuals who are found culpable of a crime. Yakubu Musah Barry, General Secretary, Tabilal Pullaku International express worry that the situation is affecting the hard won reputations of Fulanis who have distinguished themselves both locally and international. He pointed out that the media reportage on Fulanis has created public hatred towards Fulanis and especially to their children at school who are usually ridiculed in all manner of names. Mr. Barry mentioned 26 Fulani dominated countries in Africa that has Ghanaian merchants who are living peacefully without any form of bias or hatred. Therefore, what is happening in Ghana could spell doom for Ghanaians living in Fulani dominated countries, he intimated. He added that the Fulani leaders have taken steps to dialogue with aggrieved parties to ensure the peaceful coexistence among Fulanis and the indigenes in the country. Mr. Barry has appealed to the media to stop the negative reportage against Fulanis in the country which is demoralizing their peaceful existence in the country. 29.02.2016 LISTEN 29th February, 2016. Accra, Ghana - The Ghana EMBRACE (Ensuring Mothers and Babies Regular Access to Care) Implementation Research Team released the preliminary research findings at the EMBRACE International Conference held last week at the Ghana Institute of Management and Public Administration (GIMPA) Executive Conference Centre in Accra. The research project has found that women who completed all the essential elements of continuous care from pregnancy to the postnatal period increased from 8% to 50% within a year. A key innovation for this success was the continuum of care (CoC) Card, a one-page educational and recording tool of CoC. When a woman receives one essential service on time, she receives one gold star seal. This has motivated many women to collect all eight stars; these CoC mothers and babies with gold stars have better health outcomes. The research project was initiated in 2012 as a joint effort of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA), the Ghana Health Service (GHS), the University of Tokyo, Health Research Centres and District Health Management Teams in Dodowa, Kintampo, and Navrongo. Its implementation was supported by System Science Consultants Inc. and Japanese Organization for International Cooperation in Family Planning (JOICFP). The project targeted 11,100 women who delivered babies during the intervention period (October 2014 December 2015). The intervention package was 1) CoC reorientation for health workers, 2) introduction of CoC Card to visualize service use, 3) promotion of 24 hours retention at facility after delivery to ensure post-natal care, and 4) promotion of post natal care by home visits. Representatives and dignitaries from the Embassy of Japan, United Nations, development partners in Ghana, Ministry of Health, regional and district health centres were present. The keynote speaker and representatives were invited also from Kenya, Senegal, Burundi, and Nigeria to promote sharing among African countries, which are making effort to ensure CoC in cooperation with JICA and other partners. According to the Ambassador of Japan to Ghana, H.E. Kaoru Yoshimura; Ghana EMBRACE Implementation Research Team has designed and implemented an intervention package to strengthen CoC to improve maternal, newborn, and child health in Ghana. It is so far very successful. The representative of the Ministry of Health, reiterated: The Governments of Ghana and Japan have a long history of partnership in the health sector. The Japanese government has always been committed to working together with Ghana to achieve global development goals in the sector. The Ghana EMBRACE Implementation Research will contribute towards Ghanas achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals in the health sector, too. Among other objectives, the conference served as a platform to present the overall design and preliminary results of the Ghana EMBRACE Implementation Research, discuss both academic and policy implications, as well as to share strategies and lessons learned from international organizations and other African countries in promoting CoC for maternal, newborn and child health. Above all, the conference highlighted what EMBRACE meant for one gold star CoC mother: The CoC Card helped us a lot. It indicated what we had to do. Ho, Feb 29, GNA - Mr Paul Dzandu, the Deputy Executive Secretary, National Council for Tertiary Education (NCTE) Saturday urged Ghana's pioneer technical universities to establish stronger linkages with industry to strengthen the competency base of academic staff and students. Those institutions must also re-orient their staff, students and auxiliaries to the new culture that comes with their new status, he remarked at the 16th Congregation of the Ho Polytechnic. The Ho Polytechnic is one of six Polytechnics selected for conversion into Technical Universities in the country, President John Mahama told Parliament in his state- of- the-nation address last Thursday. Mr Dzandu assured the remaining Polytechnics that 'the door is not closed' as there were guidelines to measure their readiness for conversion into Technical Universities. A total of 888 students graduated with Bachelor of Technology in Hospitality and Tourism Management, Automobile Engineering and Agricultural Engineering, and Higher National Diploma. A total of 60 graduates attained first class, 406 had second class upper, 410 had second class lower and 13 had passes. Mr Dzandu explained that the six pioneer Technical Universities satisfied the rigorous assessment procedures using criteria in conformity with international best practices. Mr Francis Ganyaglo, the Deputy Volta Regional Minister, who was the guest speaker, reminded the Polytechnic that its new status comes with greater responsibilities, challenges and expectations. He said the excellent performances of alumni on the job market testified to the quality training they received while they were students in the Polytechnic. Mr Ganyaglo, a former student and lecturer of the Polytechnic, traced its development as a Technical Institute in 1968 to provide pre-technical education. By 1972 it had made tremendous progress in upgrading its courses from pre-technical to engineering and vocational fields and became a Polytechnic in 1986 though operated as a second-cycle institution. The Ho Polytechnic was however upgraded into a fully-fledged Polytechnic by PNDC Law 321. Mr Ganyaglo advised the new graduates to take advantage of several opportunities to upgrade themselves professionally and academically and establish their own businesses. He tasked them to adapt and keep working hard wherever they found themselves because sacrifice, discipline and hard-work opened doors. Professor Emmanuel Sakyi, Rector of the school, said the Polytechnic has positioned itself to be the best in the country and to offer opportunities across all disciplines for its students. He said the Polytechnic takes social sciences seriously because these are needed by science and technically inclined students to become versatile. Professor Sakyi said the Polytechnic had instituted bursaries to encourage female students to pursue professions in the science and engineering fields. He appealed to the GETFUND to complete a number of projects which have been at a standstill for about ten years. Professor Sakyi also appealed to the Ghana Education Service to help improve the stock of books at the Polytechnic's library. He said the Polytechnic has opened campuses at Hohoe, Nkwanta, Sogakope and Aflao to expand opportunities for more students. GNA Accra, Feb.29, GNA - The members of the Pedestrian Shopping Mall Traders Association at the Kwame Nkrumah Circle have appealed to the Minister of Roads and Highways to ensure that they are given adequate compensation before their relocation. Mr Charles Kwarko Ampomeah, the Chairman of the Association, told the GNA that the GHC224, 679.00, which was being offered as compensation by the Department of Urban Roads to all the 315 traders was woefully inadequate and unacceptable. The traders whose business location would be affected by the construction of the Interchange said they were not against the project, but they wanted a resettlement package that would take care of the challenges to arise and would make them continue with their businesses. Mr. Ampomeah said in 2006, when most of them legally acquired and occupied the shopping mall, the cost of constructing a metallic container ranged between GHC1, 800.00 and GHC2, 000.00, beside the cost of the provision of electricity. He, therefore, asked whether or not in arriving at the GHS224, 679.00, the Lands Valuation Division of the Lands Commission Secretariat, which worked out the compensation, took into account the cost of the structures, either metallic or wooden; the value of the land; the deprivation of livelihood; and the cost of repatriation. Mr. Ampomeah said to date nobody had discussed with them where they were going to be re-located and wondered whether they would have to return to the streets or pavements to ply their trade or not. He said they had been cooperating with the contractors and all the relevant agencies connected with the project to ensure its successful execution; but he stated that the source of their livelihood was at stake and thus called for a fair deal. GNA Accra, Feb. 29, GNA - One in five children on the continent still do not receive life-saving immunizations, the World Health Organisation (WHO) Regional Office for Africa and the Eastern Mediterranean Region has said. It said despite considerable progress in expanding access to vaccines in Africa, one in five children still lacked access. The WHO in a report titled: 'Fulfilling a promise: Ensuring immunization for all in Africa', was released ahead of the first-ever Ministerial Conference on Immunization in Africa slated for Addis Ababa. The report painted mixed picture of the state of immunization among African children in the areas of vaccine access, delivery systems and immunization equity and said on the positive side, there has been some strong progress in vaccination on the continent. Routine immunization coverage has increased considerably across Africa with average Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis (DTP3) coverage increased from 57 per cent in 2000 to 80 per cent in 2014. DTP3 refers to the vaccine. This immunization is recommended for all infants and the coverage rate of this vaccine is generally understood as the best way to measure overall immunization coverage. Measles deaths have also declined by 86 per cent between 2000 and 2014. Because measles is a highly infectious virus, control requires more than 95 per cent coverage with two doses of Measles-containing Vaccine (MCV) across all districts. In 2014, while the coverage of one dose of MCV in Africa was 74 per cent, coverage of two doses of MCV was only 19 per cent. It said the introduction of new vaccines in Africa has also been a major success. The GVAP goal is on track to be met in large part due to the contribution of countries in Africa. Many countries in Africa have introduced multiple new vaccines, such as pneumococcal conjugate vaccine and rotavirus vaccine, at the same time. According to the report, the three critical diseases, measles, rubella, and neonatal tetanus that have been eliminated or nearly eliminated in most regions of the world, remain widespread in Africa. In 2013, Africa was home to 45per cent of global deaths due to measles. Although the world has made significant progress against neonatal tetanus, a quarter of African countries are yet to eliminate tetanus cases, representing 13 of the 23 countries not having reached this achievement worldwide. It said many countries have fragile health systems that have buckled under sudden crises, such as armed conflict or major disease outbreaks, adding, 'These systems need to be made more resilient in order to withstand future shocks'. Despite these achievements, the report outlined some significant challenges saying one in five children still do not receive DTP3, the most basic vaccines they needed, adding, 'While DTP3 coverage throughout Africa has improved, progress in recent years has slowed'. It also expressed concern about the serious disparities within countries, where only nine countries in Africa reported DTP3 coverage greater than 80 per cent in all districts in 2014. Dr. Matshidiso Moeti, WHO Regional Director for Africa, said for Africa to achieve its full potential and secure a bright future, we must unite to ensure that every child on the continent receives the vaccines he or she needs to survive and thrive. 'It is unacceptable that one in five African children lack access to lifesaving vaccines, and this report is an urgent wake-up call to Africans of all walks of life and at every level'. Dr. Kesetebirhan Admasu, Minister of Health for Ethiopia expressed concern and said, 'We can and must do more to protect all our children from devastating illnesses, not only because it is our responsibility to ensure healthier futures for our citizens, but also because it is a smart economic decision'. Dr. Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, African Union Commission Chairperson, said 'This is the start of a new era of health on our continent, in which all countries commit to saving and improving children's lives using one of the most powerful tools ever invented: vaccines. Africa's unity on immunization is our best hope for a better future'. GNA Accra, Feb. 29, GNA - The Ghana Revenue Authority (GRA) has rewarded the Ghana News Agency (GNA) with an honorary award for being the Media House that made most contribution to GRA's revenue efforts in 2015. The award was given at GRA's 2015 Stakeholders Awards to recognise institutions and individuals who contributed immensely towards the growth and sustainability of the economy during the period. A total of 21 institutions and individuals were thus awarded at the ceremony at the Banquet Hall, in Accra. GRA in a citation said of the Ghana News Agency: 'A seasoned and well experienced Media House whose standards of providing quality News at all times has made you a credible source of information to other media houses. 'It is in this endeavour that GRA has enjoyed your partnership over the years. You have frequently featured the Authority in your reportage and we have benefited bountifully from our partnership. 'Ghana News Agency has contributed immensely to tax education, sensitization of our stakeholders and the general public. In appreciation of your contribution to National Revenue Mobilization, GRA awards this plaque to Ghana News Agency as the Best Media House- 2015.' Dr Bernard Otabil, the General Manager of the GNA received the plaque, on behalf of Ghana's largest news gathering organisation, with gratitude. Mr George Blankson, the Commissioner General of GRA, said the occasion was to recognise tax payers who had gone the extra mile to honour their obligation and other stakeholders who assisted the GRA in its activities. He said 2015 saw consistent challenges but it was also a year in which a lot was achieved as they have exceeded their revenue target. Thus, Mr Blankson said, in spite of the challenges in the economy last year, the Authority collected GHa 22. 17 billion, given a positive deviation of GHa 620 million. He said the 2015 revenue mobilisation performance showed a growth of GHa 5.014 billion, representing 29.3 per cent over the previous year's. He said the main reasons accounting for the achievement of the target were the strategies adopted by the Management to ensure that the taxpayers encountered fewer difficulties; as well as encouraging them to comply voluntarily. Mr Blankson said in 2016, the Authority would stay the course of the measures taken in 2015 that gave them the positive results. 'We will continue to make tax payment easier to customers to voluntarily comply,' he assured and congratulated all awardees for their achievements. GNA Mamfe, Feb 29, GNA - Nana Ansah Sasraku, Mamfehene and kyidomhene of the Akuapem traditional area, has appealed for government and stakeholder support to buttress the efforts of private basic schools which he described as offering access to quality education to countless Ghanaian children. He denied the widely-held perceptions that the primary motivation of all private schools is money- making, and maintained that 'most private schools in semi-urban and rural settings were filing in the gaps for accessible education'. Nana Sasraku was speaking as the guest speaker at the 15th anniversary celebration of the Mamfe Apostolic School Complex, held under theme 'the role of private schools in National Development' at Mamfe-Akuapem over the weekend. Citing an instance to back his claim, he said some private schools were operating crAches which admit babies aged from six months to enable their mothers go to work, with the public schools doing intakes from the four year olds to the kindergarten, stressing 'it was not out of place for private schools at the basic level to receive state support'. The Mamfehene argued that the fact that private schools without trained teachers and well-structured systems could excel at the Basic education Certificate Examination (BECE), was enough testament to the fact private schools had all it takes, including effective supervision, to improving schools academic performance. He applauded the Apostolic School Complex which was set up at a time when Mamfe had only two mission basic schools but had since complemented the effort of the state to provide quality education to the people of Mamfe at a low cost. Nana Sasraku was full of praise for Elder Samuel Appiah Darko, Proprietor of the School for providing access to quality and affordable education to improve the academic performance to the children of Mamfe over the years and called on parents to be responsible towards their wards education. Mr Appiah-Darko, said the school has chalked many successes including its pupils being adjudged the best at the Eastern Regional Mathematics and Science Clinic workshop organized by the Ghana Education Service (GES) this year. He said the school has been selected by the West Africa Examinations Council (WAEC) as a centre to write the June 2016 BECE examination and has so far registered 14 candidates to write the examination. The proprietor said despite these achievements, the school needed support to expand its classroom to increase enrollment. GNA Jerusalem (AFP) - Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Monday he plans to visit African nations for the upcoming 40th anniversary of an Israeli operation that freed hostages aboard a plane in Uganda and which led to the death of his brother. "I've received an invitation from the president of Kenya and from others to come and visit Africa," Netanyahu told ambassadors from African nations, according to his office. "I intend to do so around the 40th anniversary of the raid at Entebbe that was for us a very dramatic national experience. For me, obviously, one of great personal consequence." Netanyahu's brother Yonatan was killed in a July 1976 commando raid in Entebbe, Uganda, to free passengers aboard an Air France plane hijacked by Palestinians. The plane en route from Tel Aviv to Paris was hijacked in Athens and ordered to fly to Entebbe with 250 passengers aboard, among them 85 Israeli nationals. By the time the commandoes arrived, all non-Israeli passengers had been released by the hijackers, leaving about 100 Israelis and crew members aboard. The hostages were freed in the raid but 20 Ugandan soldiers and seven hijackers were killed, along with several Ugandan citizens. The lone casualty among the Israeli assault team was Netanyahu's brother, who headed the operation. One of the hostages, a 75-year-old Israeli woman who had been transferred to a hospital, was subsequently killed on the orders of then-dictator Idi Amin. Netanyahu said Monday that beyond marking the anniversary of the operation, the visit would allow Israel to further improve ties with African nations, particularly on security issues. A spokesman for Netanyahu was unable to give details on which countries he would travel to other than Kenya, whose President Uhuru Kenyatta visited Israel last week. They dress up and go to school every morning. They recite poems and rhymes and dance happily in the morning. They dont like the sun much. They huddle up in one corner of their classroom where there is shade because part of the roof is blown off. This is the plight of pupils at the Agandaa Primary School at Kandiga in the Kasena-Nankana West District of the Upper East Region. Pupils here have to sometimes turn their backs on their blackboard in order to stay in the little shade that is left inside their classrooms. The school is a brown mud structure with only four classrooms with weak walls look that have several cracks on them. When it is passed mid-day, pupils in primary 1, 2 and 3 classes do all they can to avoid getting scorched by the sun rays penetrating through the open roof into their classrooms. The headmaster of the Agandaa Primary School, Gilbert Atanga told Joy News the situation seriously affects learning. Atanga said, The children sit round and we use the shadows (of the walls) as our sitting points. The roof is blown off so when the sun reflects here, what do we do? We have to shift the children to where the shade is. He added that at a point, the shade will come to this side and when they move there, they turn their backs to the blackboard so whatever you (the teacher) is doing, they just go along but you dont get the results expected. There are at least 100 pupils in the school even though many of them frequently absent themselves from school. In primary 1, there are about 25 pupils. A few of them sit on an old bench and the rest, on the bare ground. The classroom floors are not cemented. Of the four classrooms at the Agandaa Primary School, only class 4 has its entire roof intact. It is also the only classroom with some desks. There is no office for the headmaster of the school. He keeps some of his books on a table in a corner of class 2. I keep my important documents like the attendance registers in a nearby house so that they dont get destroyed, he told Joy News. The School has only two teachers the headmaster and one community volunteer. To cater for the deficit, some of the brilliant pupils in class 4 sometimes guide their juniors in the lower classes through lessons. Doris Ayanore, 9, a class 4 pupil who was guiding her juniors in class 3 through a reading lesson at the time of our visit told Joy News said, We dont have textbooks, we dont have teachers and we dont have a school block. We want the government to help us. The Agandaa Primary School was officially adopted by government in 2014 but is yet to get a proper school block. The nearest schools to the community are too far away so the children cannot get there since they have to commute on foot. Atanga though acknowledging that the Ghana Education Service has been helpful in providing some teaching and learning materials for school, laments that the deplorable nature of the school makes it extremely difficult to achieve good educational results there. The headteacher is, therefore, appealing for help. Police in the Upper East Region have killed two armed robbers believed to have been part of a gang that shot and robbed a police officer last week. The two robbers identified only as Baba and Rasta were killed in a gun battle with the police last night, when the police attempted to arrest them at their hideout at Yipale, a suburb of Bolgatanga, the Upper East Regional Police Commander, DCOP Simon Yaw Afeku briefed journalists Monday afternoon. DCOP Simon Afeku The shoot-out left one police officer with a bullet wound in the leg. A third suspect whose name has been given as Patrick Ayine alias Aluta who also in the grips of the Police and is expected to be arraigned. The police also retrieved an AK47 riffle, a pistol and some rounds of ammunition from the robbers hideout. The robbers are also believed to be behind several motorbike snatching crimes which occurred on the Bolgatanga Navrongo Road. The three were said to have attacked a police officer in plain clothes while he was travelling from Navrongo to Bolgatanga on the dawn of 23rd of February 2016. The robbers allegedly shot the policeman four times after he resisted attempts to steal his motorbike last week Tuesday. The policeman required an operation to live, the regional commander said. The gang has since eluded police patrol teams until last Sunday night when at about 5am police stormed their abode. But police encountered fire injuring one corporal in the process, DCOP Simon Afeku said. Rasta and Baba were pronounced dead on arrival at the government hospital when they were rushed to the hospital. Story by Ghana|myjoyonline.com 29.02.2016 LISTEN On Saturday 27th February, 2016 Galaxy International School virtually brought the world to its new Secondary School complex at Adjiriganor, East Legon as it celebrated its 11th intercultural festival amidst fun, pomp and lots of cheer. The event themed towards global peace kept everyone on their seats as they were eager to catch a glimpse of the spectacle that was being shown by 33 participating countries through the cultural display of flags, clothing, pictures, souvenirs and different dishes from different countries. Being one of the most celebrated occasions that takes place annually, it allows students showcase the beauty of diversity by giving students the opportunity to manifest their nations through culture, music, dance and food. The occasion is meant to teach students to appreciate and embrace each other's culture as they learn more about one another. It is also meant to help students adopt the idea of seeking dialogue and tolerance first in any conflict resolution process especially these days that we have so much uproar. As much as the day was meant to remind these young ones about the need for peace with regards to our cultural and ideological differences, it was also a gentle prompt to the rest of the world that maintaining peace should be at the core of humanity. . The principal for the Secondary Section, Mr. HakanKaraman stated that we are indeed happy to have students from over 33 nations and that it is this multinational nature that makes Galaxy Int. School so diverse and yet so unique. He went on to explain that the mission at galaxy School apart from educational objectives include fostering greater understanding between cultures. With such background rich in culture and diversity it is only proper that it is channelled in a manner that all can witness and appreciate. The theme for the occasion is to lay emphasis on how important it is to peacefully co-exist in order to promote unity and harmony. In conclusion, he thanked the various embassies of participating countries and other well wishers for their support as well as teachers, students and especially parents for their unflinching support through out the preparations. He was hopeful that Ghana would continue to serve as a bridge between the two countries and continue to play its role in making the world a better place. Mr. Samuel OtopahNtow, Director, Pre-tertiary Private Schools-GES, the Chairman for the occasion in his speech emphasised that to understand and be able to live with other people peacefully, we need to know their their social orientation, customs, tradition, religion, language etc. He was grateful to all who had gathered and congratulated Galaxy for yet another feat. 29.02.2016 LISTEN Accra, Feb 29, GNA - Turkish President Recep Tayyip Ergogan would, on Tuesday March 1, address the Parliament of Ghana as part of a two-day state visit to the country. This would be the second time a Turkish leader would be addressing Ghana's Parliament. President Erdogan's address, according to Ms Kate Addo, the Deputy Director of Public Affairs of Parliament, is expected to cover issues of bilateral trade and political relations between Turkey and Ghana. Issues of migration and employment between the two countries are also expected to take the centre stage of his address to the House. GNA Kumasi, Feb. 29, GNA - The Municipal Chief Executive (MCE) for Asokore-Mampong, Mr. Nuhu Hamadan, has called for all key stakeholders to combine their efforts to raise the standard of the nation's education. He said everybody must accept to effectively play their expected part to enhance academic performance of schools. He was addressing a meeting held to discuss ways to improve teaching and learning at the KNUST Senior High School (SHS) in Kumasi. It was attended by parents, government officials, teachers and past students. Mr. Hamadan pointed out that the primary aim of education was to help change the individual's life and transform that of others. It was therefore important that as government worked hard to build the structures to provide access, this was supported and complemented by all stakeholders. He advised parents to take keen interest in the education of their children and reminded students to also take responsibility by working hard on their books. Mr. Fritz Baffour, Member of Parliament for Ablekuma South, who is an old student, said he was impressed with the strong progress it was making. He rallied all to continue to work hard and with passion to sustain the school on the path of growth. Mrs. Joyce Owusu-Ansah, the Headmistress, said the school which was established in 1961 with 60 students, now has a population in excess of 2,000. She said although there had been tremendous infrastructure development at its new site they still needed other vital facilities - computer laboratory and science equipment to improve teaching and learning. She again called for installation of an overhead tank to tackle irregular water flow to the school, additional teachers' bungalows and washrooms as well as the completion of on-going classrooms to enhance teaching and learning She told the meeting that construction work on a 2,500 capacity assembly hall, had begun. A number of personalities who had helped in diverse ways to develop the school were honoured and they included Dr. Robert Patrick Baffour, first Vice Chancellor of the KNUST, who initiated the establishment of the school. Others were Agyewodin Professor Adugyamfi Ampem, Paramount chief of Acherensua Traditional Area and former Chairman of Board of Directors of the school, Prof John Sefa Ayim and Prof Kwasi Akwansah Andam, both former V.Cs of KNUST and Prof Amstrong Donkor, a former Chairman of Board of Governors of the school. The rest were Mr. Albert Tamakloe, pioneer Headmaster of the school, Mr. Kwasi Yeboah Abebrese, Mr. James A. Boamah and Mr. Kwasi Amoako, all formers heads of the school, the Parent-Teacher Association (PTA) and the old boys association. They were presented with plaques. GNA 29.02.2016 LISTEN Accra, Feb 29, GNA - A team of Inspection Task Force from the Ghana National Fire Service (GNFS) on Monday visited the premises of the Ghana News Agency (GNA) to assess the level of preparedness in the event of any unforeseen fire outbreaks. The team which was led by Mr Charles Annobil, the Coordinator of the Inspection and a Station Officer of the Ghana National Fire Service, went round the various Departments to ascertain the level of readiness of the Agency for any eventuality. The Fire Officers also checked on the quality of electrical gadgets, renewals of fire license as well as the fire extinguishers displayed on the premises among other things. Mr Annobil said the aim of the inspection which was routinely done on a quarterly basis, was to heighten the level of awareness of fire safety among the staff of all institutions as well as the public. He said fire safety preparedness remains an essential aspect in both environmental and occupational safety and health, as there were numerous examples of physical hazards that has affected many workplaces, and most of them were mainly caused by inadequate strategies in fire prevention, detection and, or fire control. He referred to fire outbreaks as disasters caused by actions of human beings directly or indirectly, adding that safety must entail all the activities which were geared towards their prevention, early detection and control. These activities and processes were done to safeguard human life and to preserve property, he said. Mr Annobil also said fire safety preparedness was one of the four phases of fire emergency management, which was aimed at fire disaster risk reduction, and involves a continuous cycle of planning, organising, training, equipping, exercising, evaluating and improving strategies, to ensure effective coordination and enhancement of capabilities to respond to fire disasters. He said the fire inspectors during their work scrutinize residential, public and commercial buildings for compliance with fire and life safety codes and ordinances, and prepare inspection reports to be sent to the Director of Safety of the GNFS for onward action. He said the Task Force looks out for the readiness of an institution's Management towards fire safety and prevention, the control measures in place, safety gadgets including fire extinguishers, for preventing fire outbreaks, as well as the level of awareness of the staff on safety and prevention of fire. Mr Annobil said every institution must have a fire insurance certificate as well as fire extinguishers, which were both subject to yearly renewals, so that in the event of an unforeseen event, insurance could take responsibility of the losses suffered. He therefore advised the Management of the GNA to ensure the proper installation of life safety requirements, extinguishing systems, and fire alarms. GNA Amasaman (GAR) Feb. 29, GNA - Mr. Sam Atukwai Quaye, the Municipal Chief Executive for Ga West, has inspected completed and ongoing projects being undertaken by the Assembly in the Municipality. The projects include a multi modern complex hospital building with facilities like Out-Patient Department (OPD), Dispensary, Dental and Maternity Wards, Children's Ward and a Healthcare Unit, to serve the people of Amamorley, Asofan, Omanjor, and Ofankor. These projects are almost completed. He also inspected a 27-unit classroom block with library, toilet, and boreholes project facilities at Ofankor and Asofan in the Trobo Constituency, to help eliminate the schools under trees. A Police Motor Traffic and Transport Unit building, Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit Office, Emergency Unit building for the Amasaman Hospital, an 18-unit classroom for M/A School, and the Bus Rapid Terminal are also under construction. Mr. Quaye, in an interview with the Ghana News Agency, said the projects were started two years ago after the traditional leaders had released lands for them. He appealed to Ghanaians to massively vote for President John Dramani Mahama in the November presidential election to enable him to complete his laudable infrastructural development plans. The MCE was accompanied by traditional leaders, assembly members, opinion leaders and the Members of Parliament responsible for Amasaman and Trobo. GNA Kumasi, Feb. 29, GNA - A Kumasi Circuit Court, presided over by Mrs. Afua Adu-Amankwaah, has sentenced a farmer caught with 128.24 grams of marijuana to 10 years imprisonment in hard labor. Kofi Antwi, alias 'Ratty', pleaded guilty to the charge of possessing narcotic drug without lawful authority. Police Chief Inspector Comfort Baffour Kyei told the court that the convict was arrested on September 21, last year, by the police regional highway patrol team. The officers were on routine duty on the Kumasi-Obuasi road, when they intercepted the dried leaves, concealed on a-Ssangyong mini-bus. Antwi was seized after he admitted ownership of the hard drug. The prosecution said forensic laboratory test confirmed the leaves to be marijuana. GNA Koforidua, Feb 29, GNA - Beneficiaries of the Livelihood Empowerment against Poverty (LEAP), would be paid their monies electronically starting from this year, Nana Oye-lithur, Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection (MOGCSP), has stated. The move aimed at improving cash transfer arrangement for LEAP - a safety net to provide some relief to the indigent in the country, comes as a result of a two-year successful piloting of the e-payment system in three regions and it would be implemented by the Ghana Interbank Payment and Settlement System (GHIPSS). Nana Oye-lithur, who was addressing the opening of a capacity-building workshop for district staff of the Department of the Social Welfare (DSW) in Koforidua said as part of the new system, all the beneficiaries would be enrolled onto the e-zwich platform. The sector minister who spoke of a more robust and secure payment system added that 'this would include a second level biometric verification, which will authenticate the identity of LEAP beneficiaries to remove fraud and issues of intermediaries /impersonation during payments'. Nana Oye-Lithur disclosed that, LEAP was impacting over 700,000 individuals in Ghana and this year, the ministry had earmarked to enroll 100,000 additional households to the LEAP platform raising the total beneficiary level to 250,000 households by December. According to the Minister, the LEAP programme in Ghana, is touted to be one of the best social intervention programmes in the whole of Africa and this feat is largely attributable to the Government's commitment and continuous support for the achievement of the United Nations Development Goals 1, 3 and 4. Nana Oye-Lithur admitted that despite the huge success chalked over the years with the introduction of the LEAP since 2008, poverty, vulnerability and inequalities still existed in many communities in Ghana and urged the staff of the DSW to intensify their efforts in identifying such persons to be enrolled on to the programme. The workshop brought together DSW district staff from the southern zone -Volta, Eastern, Central and Greater-Accra Regions. Other financial institutions partnering the Ministry to facilitate the new payment system also attended. GNA 29.02.2016 LISTEN Accra, Feb. 29, GNA - Dr Edward Larbi-Siaw, Tax Policy Advisor at the Ministry of Finance and Economic Planning, has urged Ghanaian business community to embrace the ECOWAS Common External Tariffs to expand their business. He said Common External Tariffs allow industries to expand to take over from other businesses and urged the business community not to be afraid to take such opportunities. Dr Larbi-Siaw was speaking at the Ghana Revenue Authority's (GRA) 2015 Stakeholder Awards organised in Accra to recognise excellence in revenue mobilization and motivate all who participated to achieve the Authority's objectives. The Common External Tariff is one of the instruments of harmonising ECOWAS Member States and strengthening its Common Market. The ceremony awarded 21 companies, including the Ghana News Agency and individuals who contributed immensely to the growth and sustainability of the economy and celebrated them for their efforts. It also created a platform for GRA to familiarise, acknowledge and appreciate stakeholders as well as other organisations that helped the Authority carry out its mandated obligations. Dr Larbi-Siaw therefore urged the public to embrace the policy instead of trying to fight it from a position that was unattainable. 'Dialogue with GRA and develop spirit of corporation to resolve issues,' he added. Mr George Blankson, the Commissioner General of GRA, said the occasion was to recognise tax payers who have gone extra miles to honour their obligation and other stakeholders who assisted the GRA in its activities. He said the year 2015 saw consistent challenges but it was also a year that a lot have been achieved as they exceeded their revenue target. Mr Blankson said in spite of the challenges in the economy last year, the Authority collected GHa22. 17 billion, given a positive deviation of GHa620 million. He said the 2015 revenue mobilisation performance showed a growth of GHa5.014 billion, representing 29.3 per cent over the previous year. He said the main reasons accounting for the achievement of the target were the strategies adopted by the Management to ensure that the taxpayers encountered less difficulties as well as encouraging them to comply voluntarily. Mr Blankson said in 2016, the Authority would stay the course of the measures taken in 2015 that gave them the positive results,'we will continue to make tax payment easier to customers to voluntarily comply,' he assured. Mr Frank Gamadey, a Board Member of GRA, said the Authority will continue to ensure improved customer service and urged the public to keep them on their toes by demanding best customer service delivery from the GRA. He said voluntary tax compliance would be achieved if customers saw improvement in customer service delivery, 'and on behalf of the authority I want to assure you that we will continue to improve customer service to enhance voluntary tax compliance among our customers'. Mr Gamadey therefore urged customers to ensure that other colleagues who flout tax payment were brought to book as pertains in developed countries. 'I entreat you to assist GRA to bring those people to book, because it is unfair for those people to partake in benefits that they do not contribute to,' he added. He congratulated the awardees for their achievements and expressed the hope that the awards scheme would be expanded in future to cover more customers. Mr Samuel Sarpong, acting Managing Director of GCB Bank Limited, one of the Awardees, on behalf of other awardees said it was worth to be recognised as a citizenry and thanked GRA for the awards. He urged GRA to continue the efforts to widen the tax net to ensure that everybody honoured their tax obligation to build the country. GNA 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. you are here: budget Budget 2016: Jayant Sinha expects GST Bill passage in H2 of session Minister of state for finance, Jayant Sinha in an interview to CNBC-TV18, said the government has not only adhered to the fiscal deficit target, it has also increased public investment in a significant manner business Budget 2016: Expect action on monetary front by RBI, says Motilal Oswal Raamdeo Agarwal, Motilal Oswal, says 1 percent infra cess on cars will not be a big dampener for auto companies. Auto Industry is classified into two-wheelers, three-wheelers and four-wheelers segment. It can be further classified as passenger, utility and commercial vehicles. Hero Honda and Bajaj Auto is dominant players in the two-wheelers space. Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Ashok Leyland rule the four wheelers space. An original equipment manufac... more Auto Industry is classified into two-wheelers, three-wheelers and four-wheelers segment. It can be further classified as passenger, utility and commercial vehicles. Hero Honda and Bajaj Auto is dominant players in the two-wheelers space. Maruti Suzuki, Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra, Ashok Leyland rule the four wheelers space. An original equipment manufacturer, or OEM, manufactures products or components which are purchased by a second company and retailed under the second company's brand name. Tata Motors, Mahindra & Mahindra are famous OEM across the world. In order to make India a power to reckon with in the automotive sector, the government launched the Automotive Mission Plan (AMP) 2006-2016. The Automotive Component Manufacturers Association of India (ACMA) is the nodal agency for the Indian Auto Component Industry. hide After Slaters positive reaction to a difficult situation, bargain buyers werent far behind. The market has just beaten Slaters share price down. Slater and Gordon [ASX:SGH] was one of the worst performing stocks last year. Following a UK court decision that went against the company, and multiple earning downgrades, Slaters shares were in a downward spiral. In a little over three months, the law firm has dropped 73.8%. Not long after this drop, shares went into suspension, which are only being lifted today. Its no coincidence that Slaters 1H results for FY16 are to be announced today as well. Slaters shares havent been able to recover among the sea of sellers. And it seems their profits are trending down with shares. Slater made a net loss of $958.3 million, down -2,044.2% for the first half of FY16. Clearly todays results are very disappointing. In particular the decline in business performance in the UK is of serious concern to all at Slater and Gordon and equally will be of concern to our investors, said Slaters Managing Director, Andrew Grech. It seems fitting that the cause for Slaters share price decline is the same for their downfall in earnings. Some investors are even gleeful at the signs of Slaters demise. It was not long ago that Slater told investors that earnings would not be affected. This was straight after the UK court decided to lift the claims eligibility in court. After Slaters positive reaction to a difficult situation, bargain buyers werent far behind. The market has just beaten Slaters share price down. But it seemed like it was for no good reason. If the court decision wasnt going to affect earnings, why not buy up some stocks for cheap? Slaters comments were completely misguiding investors. The court decision did affect earnings in the weeks that followed. Safe to say there are investors who lost a lot of money on Slaters announcements. And, maybe, theyre now hoping for bankruptcy Slater will also be hit with a $876.4 million dollar write down to goodwill. Goodwill can extend to the companys brand name, its customer base, customer relations etc. Its the intangible assets that make the company great. And, of course, after Slaters actions, you could foresee a decrease in goodwill. What it means for shareholder, though, is simply that they can expect more downward pressure on stock prices. While times are tough, Grech believe improvements are around the corner: We will be taking a number of necessary and significant steps to improve the operational performance of both the UK business and the broader Slater and Gordon Group. Key Areas There will be a number of developments and initiatives in rebuilding its brand, making Slater a stronger company in the future. The focus of the next few months will be: A complete strategic review for their UK operations; Changes to business processes and improving their case management system; Aiming to reduce frictional costs and delaying in claims management and resolution; Reducing debt levels over the short to medium term; Executive changes; Strengthening finance function for both Group and UK operations; and Driving operational effectiveness within their Australian operations. It sure sounds like Slater and Gordon have the right mindset to tackle the problem. Yet can investors trust the word of executives anymore? My guess is as good as yours. Hopefully, the security and executive changes Slater will be exposed to have some positive effect on honesty. Yet we still havent answered the question. Should you buy Slater and Gordon? To buy or not to buy As many predicted, Slaters share price dropped this morning. On market open shares ripped down almost 40%, to $0.50 per share. Source: Google Finance Is this cheap enough? It all comes down to preference. If you are a momentum trader then you might be able to identify an upwards movement in Slaters share price. Its common that, once share prices fall hard, prices tend to bounce slightly. It can also be referred to a dead cat bounce. But it basically symbolises buyers coming in, purchasing a stock they believe is cheap. This would be one plan to take if you were steadfast on getting into Slaters stock. Yet if you were a value investor, you would probably stay well away from the law firm. Value investors are only concerned with the health and performance of the company. Share price is a secondary thought. Combined with Slaters net loss, amounting to hundreds of millions, their operational cash flow was down $62.5 million. This would send a value investor running for the hills. Slaters balance sheet is horrible, and their future potential of earnings, while possible, is not reliable. This is why if you are a value investor you would steer clear of limping companies like Slater. Yet, as I said before, it all comes down to preference. If youre happy with taking on more risk, then trading Slaters stock might be a nice thrill. However, its not somewhere that Id happily place my money. Harje Ronngard, Junior Analyst, Money Morning PS: Slater and Gordon may not be a blue chip but theyve definitely been beaten down. The state theyre in right now leave little hope for the future. Yet there are plenty of beaten down blue chips out there that still have great potential. According to Money Mornings publisher Kris Sayce, there are five great beaten down blue chips which could yield impressive returns this year. In Kriss report, Five BeatenDown Aussie BlueChips to Buy Today, hell reveal the right time to buy these blue chips, maximising your returns. Theres one common denominator that makes these five beaten down blue chips a buy. If you want to find out why, pick up Kris report today. To get your free copy, click here. February 29, 2016 Sanders Must Offer Tulsi Gabbard The VP Slot. Now! Tulsi Gabbard, a U.S. Congress representative from Hawaii, stepped down as a vice chair of the Democrat National Committee to endorse Bernie Sanders. In the video below the fold she explains her reasoning. It is Clinton's militarism in foreign policies that makes her take the other side. Described as "libertarian-leaning progressive" the woman is smart, pretty and speaks well. She is also a former officer in the U.S. military with combat experience and an interest in foreign policy. Politically her endorsement is manna from heaven for Sanders. Sanders should IMMEDIATELY offer her the Vice-President slot. Her task in the campaign is to stand in on all foreign policy issues. Sanders then can continue to focus on inequality in the United States. Hillary Clinton would have no chance to beat that team. Unlike the neoconned Clinton, a Sanders/Gabbard ticket can attract young voters which will be needed to beat Trump. If Clinton runs against Trump the large and growing "anything but Clinton" crowd would likely let her loose. Someone tell Sanders that he better act fast to announce her nomination before Clinton collects more states and takes away the buzz that the Sanders campaign urgently needs. Posted by b on February 29, 2016 at 19:41 UTC | Permalink Comments next page One more question before we forget about the black history month just ended: How did President Franklin Roosevelts 1938 visit to the University of North Carolina lead to a long friendship between the presidents wife and a young North Carolina African American woman? In 1938 in Chapel Hill, Roosevelt made a speech praising UNC for its excellence and progressiveness. In the same year, Pauli Murrays application to the UNC graduate school was denied because she was African American. She wrote Roosevelt a fiery letter criticizing him for his praise of an institution that did not admit blacks, asking what UNCs progressivism meant. Does it mean that Negro students in the South will be allowed to sit down with white students and study a problem which is fundamental and mutual to both groups? Does it mean that the University of North Carolina is ready to open its doors to Negro students . . .? Or does it mean, that everything you said has no meaning for us as Negroes, that again we are to be set aside and passed over . . .? Knowing that the president might not respond to her letter promptly, Murray sent a copy to Roosevelts wife, Eleanor, hoping her attention might lead to a response. Mrs. Roosevelt did reply, I have read the copy of the letter you sent me and I understand perfectly, but great changes come slowly . . . The South is changing, but dont push too fast. Just as some of todays young African Americans see Hillary Clinton as a less than avid advocate for blacks, Pauli Murray thought Mrs. Roosevelt and her husband were foot draggers on civil rights and unwilling to push hard enough against a system stacked against African Americans. Even though many Americans thought both Roosevelts were pushing much too hard for Negro rights, Murray could not even bring herself to vote for Franklin Roosevelt. Nevertheless, Mrs. Roosevelts reply to Murray began an ongoing exchange of letters, which itself led to personal meetings and long visits at places where the Roosevelts lived. The warm and respectful friendship that emerged is the subject of The Firebrand & The First Lady: Portrait of a Friendship: Pauli Murray, Eleanor Roosevelt, and the Struggle for Social Justice, a new book by Patricia Bell-Scott. It is a beautifully written history of important times, seen through the eyes of two extraordinary women. Murray was born in 1910, grew up in Durham, and graduated from Hillside High School before going to Hunter College in New York City where she graduated in 1938. After her unsuccessful attempt to gain entrance to graduate school at UNC, she became active in protesting segregation in public facilities and unfair treatment of blacks in the judicial system. She graduated first in her class at Howard Law School. Although Harvard Law Schools graduate program traditionally accepted the top Howard graduates, Murray was denied admission because she was a woman. Thanks only in part to her friendship and patronage from Mrs. Roosevelt, Murray had an extraordinary career as poet, writer, organizer, promoter, teacher, lawyer, theologian and ordained priest. She was passionate and energetic until her death from cancer in 1985. Why then is she not a more well-known heroine? One reason is that she encountered discrimination and challenges on many fronts: As a black person, (denied admission to UNC). As a female (denied admission to Harvard Laws graduate program). As a victim of McCarthyism (Cornell University denied her a position because of her participation in progressive organizations in the late 1930s and 1940s). And as a lesbian (which kept her from having the kind of social life that would have opened doors for her). Thanks to The Firebrand & The First Lady, her struggles and accomplishments may inspire a new generation of heroes. D.G. Martin hosts North Carolina Bookwatch, which airs Sundays at noon and Thursdays at 5 p.m. on UNC-TV. Insurance companies have warned that forthcoming pension changes may be as much about raising revenue for the Government as encouraging those on lower income to save more. The Chancellor is widely expected to make changes to the tax relief of pensions in the March 16 Budget which could see the erosion of higher-rate tax relief, or the introduction of a new Pension ISA. Pension company Aegon has warned that either move is likely to result in a further tax grab for the Chancellor. Steven Cameron, the regulatory strategy director at Aegon points out that previous pension reforms have provided a tax windfall for the Government. It is estimated that the Pension Freedom rules which allow most people full access to their pension funds from the age of 55 will generate an additional 1 billion in income tax in the first tax year. These changes, which were announced two years ago, came into force in April 2015. The Government has already raised a further 100 million from lowering the lifetime pension allowance from 18 million to 1.25 million, according to a recent Freedom of Information Act request. This lifetime limit will fall to 1 million from April this year, raking in further cash for the Government. Cameron says: The Chancellors pension freedoms have been widely welcomed as offering pension savers unfettered access to their pension savings. However many of those who have taken advantage of them will also have done their bit to help close the Chancellors Budget deficit. He pointed out that the original consultation on pension reforms was called Strengthening the Incentive To Save. He warned that this should be the priority with further pension changes, not increasing revenue for the Government. Any moves in the forthcoming Budget to reduce tax relief on future pension contributions would represent a second tax grab on pension savers. Figures published last week by HM Revenue & Customs showed that the contributions into personal pension had risen, and where now back above the 20 billion level. This rise has largely been due to the Governments auto-enrolment programme, which has seen pension contributions automatically deducted from peoples salaries, unless they specifically opt out. This has particularly boosted pension contributions from younger workers, who previously were far less likely to save into pensions. This HMRC data also shows that the cost of tax relief on pension contributions has remained at a relatively flat level for the past five years, largely due to the reduction in annual allowances. Jon Greer, pensions technical expert at Old Mutual Wealth said: The introduction of a tapered annual allowance for those earning more than 150,000 a year in April could assist in maintaining that level further. On the other side of the coin, the income tax received on pensions in payment is likely to show an increase for this tax year as pensions freedoms introduced last April have seen an excess of 3.5 billion withdrawn from pots. This data could be a crucial tool for Treasury modelling ahead of making a decision on changes to pension tax relief on March 16. His comments come as fund manager Fidelity called on the Government to ensure any forthcoming pension changes in this years Budget were simple and inclusive. Richard Parkin, head of retirement at Fidelity International said: Having made great strides in improving pension coverage through automatic enrolment and added flexibility through pension freedoms, increasing pension contributions is the last piece of the jigsaw. There is a huge amount at stake here in economic terms but also in creating a pension system that people can engage with and trust. The constant tinkering with tax relief that we have seen since the introduction of the current framework in 2006 has created confusion and undermined confidence in pensions. He added that the Government needs to be honest with savers about what the State is going to provide in retirement to underline the importance of making additional provisions. Tax relief reform should focus on providing a framework for that, which is both supportive, inclusive and sustainable. This is what brokers need to know about the mortgage performance of the big banks that dont operate in the broker channel. Royal Bank s outstanding residential mortgage loans accounted for $245.6 billion as at January 31, 2016 up from $234.2 billion as at October 31, 2015.The biggest of the big banks credits its residential mortgage portfolio with spurring its overall loan growth.Loans were up $68 billion or 15%, largely reflecting our acquisition of City National, continued volume growth in wholesale loans and residential mortgages mainly due to increased client activity, and an increase due to the impact of foreign exchange translation, RBC said in its Q1 financial report.Mortgages were up 5% year-over-year. Its total residential mortgage portfolio is now $97.6 billion.BMOs condo Mortgage portfolio is now $14.1B, with 51% of those loans insured.CIBCs residential mortgage portfolio was $101.8 billion as at January 31, 2016 down from $103.9 billion as at October 31, 2015.CIBCs revenue was up $107 million (5%) over the previous quarter.However, the bank did admit some of its revenue was down due to its exit from the mortgage broker channel.Personal banking revenue was up $89 million, primarily due to volume growth, wider spreads, and higher fees. The same period last year included a gain arising from accounting adjustments on credit card-related balance sheet amounts, shown as an item of note, CIBC said in its Q1 financial report. Other revenue was down $7 million, mainly due to lower revenue from our exited FirstLine mortgage broker business.In terms of assets, CIBC said its Residential mortgages were up by $3.7 billion, primarily due to growth in CIBC brand mortgages, partially offset by attrition in the exited FirstLine mortgage broker business. The success of a proposal for the world's biggest producers to freeze crude output hinges on unified support, Iraq's oil minister said, a day after fellow OPEC member Iran called the plan "ridiculous." "If some people freeze and others raise, then this is not a good policy," Iraq's Oil Minister Adel Abdul Mahdi said in an interview in Tokyo on Wednesday. "So we have to reach a complete agreement." The proposal was announced last week as producers seek to boost oil that is trading near $30 and fell to a 12-year low in January amid a global glut. Iran's oil minister said the accord - backed by Saudi Arabia, Russia, Qatar and Venezuela - placed "unrealistic demands" on the Persian Gulf producer, the ministry's news agency Shana reported Tuesday. Iran is seeking to boost oil output by 1 million barrels a day within a year after sanctions were lifted in January. Saudi Arabia said it won't cut oil production because it doesn't trust other countries to join in, insisting instead that high-cost producers ought to bear the burden of reducing the current surplus. Crude has lost more than half its value since the Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries decided in 2014 not to cut output in an effort to defend market share amid a global oversupply. The surplus is 1.7 million barrels a day, Iran's oil ministry news service Shana reported Wednesday. Iraq is ready to cooperate on the output freeze, Falah Al-Amri, chairman of Iraq's state Oil Marketing Organization, known as SOMO, said at conference in Abu Dhabi on Wednesday. OPEC members and non-OPEC nations "have to act together" to combat falling prices, he said. Iraq is producing 4.7 million barrels of oil a day, with exports at 4 million barrels a day, he said. That includes the northern Iraq region controlled by the Kurdistan Regional Government. Oil markets have a "huge oversupply" that will take "months and years" to balance out, Al-Amri said. Industry spending cuts in investment because of low prices will take two or three years to result in falling supply, he said. Iraq is negotiating with oil companies on their production targets after asking them to reduce their 2016 spending plans because of lower oil prices and cuts in government revenue. The talks may affect Iraq's target to have crude production capacity of 6 million barrels a day by 2020, Al-Amri said. Middle East energy producers reduced capital expenditures by 13 percent last year, led by Iraq because of "severe budgetary strain" due to the costly war against the Islamic State, the International Energy Agency said in a report on Monday. Even so, Iraq had record production last year, with growth of 650,000 barrels a day, second only to the U.S., the IEA said. WASHINGTON The anti-fossil fuel movement Keep It in the Ground has been inching toward the mainstream as prominent Democratic politicians ramp up their commitment to combating climate change. The shift follows an intense and well-funded activist campaign that has mixed closed-door Washington meetings with petition drives during the Iowa caucuses, all attempting to make the case advances in renewable energy technology now allow a radical shift away from fossil fuels. In November, the Obama administration announced it was putting a moratorium on new coal leases for federal lands, pending a review of the program. Earlier this month, Hillary Clinton was videoed at a campaign rally telling an attendee she wanted to put a moratorium on oil and gas drilling on federal lands the clip quickly spread across the internet. The initial reaction was were going to need some time to wrestle with this, said Sen. Jeff Merkley, D-Ore., who introduced legislation last year to halt new fossil fuel leases on federal lands. But this has moved so fast I think were going to see more of the Democratic Party signing on. I think its very helpful for Hillary Clinton to declare her intentions. Until recently, Keep It in the Ground as in leave alone those so far undeveloped deposits of oil, gas and coal struggled to gain ground even with mainstream environmentalists. Too impractical, skeptics said. The world has been almost entirely dependent on fossil fuels for almost a century now. Transitioning to clean sources like wind and solar would probably take another century. If you do this too quickly, youre talking a monumental blow to the economy, said Fadel Gheit, an oil and gas analyst with the investment bank Oppenheimer & Co. This cannot happen overnight. The economy is not ready for it. We went from horse drawn carriage to automobile over a period of many decades. Whether the moratoriums on fossil fuels come to pass, Democrats recent willingness to take a tougher stance on climate change leaves the oil industry the prospect of downsizing in this country. Already the flood of political donations coming from environmentally minded and wealthy investors is getting attention within corporate offices in Houston and beyond, said one U.S. oil executive, who agreed to speak only on the condition of anonymity. You have billionaires like Tom Steyer and George Soros putting enormous amounts of money into this, he said. Steyer, a now-retired hedge fund billionaire in San Francisco, and his wife are the largest individual political contributor in the country, according to the Center for Responsive Politics not counting the uncountable sums donated to political campaigns through nonprofits since the U.S. Supreme Courts Citizens United ruling. Since 2014, his group, NextGen Climate, has pumped more than $89 million into political campaigns, pushing candidates to commit to getting the U.S. power supply to 50 percent renewable by 2030. Both Democratic presidential candidates already have signed on, and Steyer appeared to be lobbying for more pledges during a closed-door meeting in Washington last month with Senate Democrats. Steyer declined a request for an interview. But a spokesman for his group cited recent polls that show Americans shifting towards greater action on climate change. An ABC/ Washington Post poll in November showed 63 percent of the country believes climate change is a serious problem. Across the nation, voters are asking for a plan to address the climate crisis, and presidential candidates are listening, the group said in a statement. But would voters go so far as to dramatically shift away from fossil fuels in a matter of 14 years, potentially raising energy costs and devastating the economies of fossil-fuel rich regions like Texas? Last year, the British bank HSBC issued a report warning investors that moves by governments to limit carbon emissions, along with improving renewable technology and current economic uncertainty, posed the threat that many oil and gas reserves around the world would have to go undrilled. At the same time, there is plenty of skepticism that the campaign largesse of billionaires like Steyer will translate into actual votes in Washington. Right now, the country remains dependent on oil. Even as wind and solar makes gain on the power grid, the fuel supply of the countrys transportation system cars, trucks, planes and the like is more than 90 percent petroleum-based products. Louis Finkel, executive vice president at the American Petroleum Institute, said as hes watched the Keep It in the Ground movement over the last two years and sees little to indicate theyve moved beyond the liberal fringe of the environmental movement. Just because you have the backing of a couple of billionaires like Tom Steyer doesnt mean theres a broad movement. It means theyre well-funded, he said. Any carbon reduction scheme faces significant hurdles in the United States. The Republican Party has pushed back against such measures, with many prominent members like presidential candidate Ted Cruz questioning the science of climate change itself. And last week the U.S. Supreme Court temporarily blocked the Obama administration from a plan to cut carbon emissions from power plants, while the legality of the presidents action is decided in the courts. When Merkley and five other senators introduced what was dubbed the Keep It in the Ground bill in early November, it seemed the sort of symbolic legislation that would never again see the light of day. What little news attention it garnered focused on the support of presidential candidate Bernie Sanders. But two days later Obama announced he would not approve the Keystone XL pipeline, a seemingly straightforward project to transport Canadian crude to U.S. refineries that galvanized the environmental movement. Then, in December in Paris, world leaders agreed to work toward dramatic reductions in the amount of carbon mankind pumps into the atmosphere. Add in a primary season where presidential candidates work to appeal to the more ideological wings of their respective parties, and climate change seems to have found its political moment. Will it last? So far, support for Keep It in the Ground among U.S. politicians largely is limited to the liberal wing of the Democratic Party and presidential candidates from that party. Rep. Gene Green, D-Houston, said for now a radical shift away from fossil fuels simply isnt practical, and he expects the current wave of pledges will fade away. I dont oppose renewables. But I know the world is still going to run on hydrocarbons, and Id rather we produce them here than buy them from Venezuela, he said. Were in the middle of campaign season. Times will change. For now, politicians supporting the Keep It in the Ground movement are eager to capitalize on the momentum. Earlier this month, as Obama was preparing to announce a $10.25 a barrel tax on crude oil, his administration was criticized by ten Democratic senators from coastal states for a plan announced last year to expand offshore drilling into the Atlantic Ocean, as well as within the Gulf of Mexico. Given the prevailing science and critical need to quickly reduce carbon emissions, we believe it is imperative that the federal government does not offer new leases, and make every effort to terminate existing, nonproducing leases, the senators wrote. Twenty years is a big number for Riverdance, as the iconic performance company is celebrating two decades this year. Their 20th Anniversary World Tour comes to Midland for two performances on Tuesday and Wednesday at the Wagner Noel. With such a big production of dancing, music and more, numbers have added up in many ways over the years. Riverdance representatives Polk & Co. provided a unique look at the show by the numbers. Riverdance, which began in 1995 in Dublin, has played 11,000 shows and has been seen by more then 25 million people worldwide. WASHINGTON (AP) The Supreme Court challenge to a Texas law that has dramatically reduced the number of abortion clinics in the state is the justices' most significant case on the hot-button issue in nearly a quarter-century. One of this election-year term's biggest cases is being argued Wednesday before a court altered by the death of Justice Antonin Scalia. He was perhaps the most vociferous abortion opponent among the nine justices. The Texas law has been replicated across the South and elsewhere, part of a wave of state abortion restrictions in the past five years. States mainly led by Republicans have tried to limit when in a pregnancy abortions may be performed, restricted abortion-inducing drugs that take the place of surgery and increased standards for clinics and the doctors who work in them. The Supreme Court case involves that last category. A Texas law enacted in 2013 requires doctors who perform abortions to have admitting privileges at nearby hospitals. It also prohibits clinics from providing abortions unless they meet the standards of outpatient or ambulatory surgical centers. The high court has partially blocked those measures. If allowed to take full effect, all but 10 clinics in Texas would have to close. There would be no abortion providers in the state's rural areas or west of San Antonio. The only clinic in the Rio Grande Valley would be allowed to remain open on a limited basis. Before the law was passed, there were roughly 40 clinics in the state. About half have closed. The case offers competing views of how to protect women's health. The clinics contend abortions are safer than many other medical procedures that are less stringently regulated and that the clinic regulations have only one purpose: to reduce the availability of abortions. "These laws are tantamount to an outright ban for too many," said Amy Hagstrom Miller, chief executive of Whole Woman's Health, which operates clinics in Texas and other states. Defenders of the laws in Texas and elsewhere argue that states have discretion to take steps to make abortions safer. Alabama and other states backing Texas told the Supreme Court that states were within their rights to apply health regulations to clinics for the sake of patients. "Obviously I'm pro-life and I would like to limit the number of abortions, but here we were looking at women's health and safety," said Republican Gov. Robert Bentley of Alabama, a doctor who signed his state's admitting privileges law. Texas Solicitor General Scott Keller, who will defend the law at the Supreme Court, said Texas acted in response to the high-profile case of Philadelphia abortion doctor Kermit Gosnell. He is serving a life sentence after his conviction for killing three babies born alive and for the overdose death of a woman who was a clinic patient. A federal judge in Texas struck down parts of the law as not intended to promote women's health and clearly aimed at reducing access to abortion. But the 5th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals in New Orleans largely accepted the state's argument. The justices' June 2015 order putting the appellate ruling on hold at least suggests that there is a majority to cut back on the regulations. The clinics and abortion-rights groups are hoping for a ruling that might bolster challenges to other restrictions on abortion. To prevail, they still need Justice Anthony Kennedy's vote, along with the reasonably certain votes of four more liberal justices, just as they did before Scalia's death. Kennedy was part of the 5-4 majority to reaffirm abortion rights in 1992, then wrote the court's decision in 2007 that upheld a federal law banning a certain procedure that opponents call partial-birth abortion. That was also a 5-4 split. A broad high court ruling striking down the Texas provisions would show that the court's 1992 decision still "has some teeth in it," said Stephanie Toti, the lawyer who will argue the clinics' case. Without Scalia, the best that supporters of these laws can hope for is a 4-4 tie, which would uphold the appeals court's endorsement of the Texas law and perhaps affect similar laws in Louisiana and Mississippi because they are part of the same judicial circuit as Texas. A trial judge also struck down Louisiana's admitting privileges law, but the 5th Circuit has allowed Louisiana to enforce the law as the case makes its way through the courts. Two of the state's four clinics have closed in response and a third will have to close soon, said Nancy Northup, president of the Center for Reproductive Rights. On Friday, the clinics said in an emergency appeal to the high court that only a New Orleans clinic would remain open if the state is allowed to enforce the law. They want the justices to block the ruling and let them stay open. A split decision in the Texas case would have no effect on laws that have been blocked in Alabama and Oklahoma, among other states. Women already make the drive from Louisiana and Mississippi to have abortions at the West Alabama Women's Center in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, said Dr. Willie Parker, who performs abortions in Alabama, Georgia and Mississippi. The Tuscaloosa clinic is Alabama's busiest. It would be among four clinics, out of five, that would have to close under the Alabama admitting privileges law, which is not in effect. If the Texas law stands and others like it are enforced, Parker said, "it won't mean fewer unintended pregnancies. It won't mean fewer fatally flawed pregnancies. It will mean women will be left without a safe and legal means of ending pregnancy." Ashley McGuire, a senior fellow with the anti-abortion group The Catholic Association, said the fight to limit abortions will continue no matter what the Supreme Court says. "This fight is not going away anytime soon," McGuire said. The case is Whole Woman's Health v. Hellerstedt, 15-274. Election letters (Letters about specific candidates have a have a 200-word limit.) Editors Note: The Reporter-Telegram will run letters about candidates received by noon Monday in Tuesdays edition. District Attorney Nodolf is guardian of the public trust My wife, Vi Lea, and I would like to take this opportunity to introduce you to our friend and colleague, Laura Nodolf, who is an outstanding candidate for the office of district attorney in Midland County. We have known Laura in a professional and personal capacity for many years and have watched her develop into an exceptional prosecutor and public servant. In her current role as first assistant felony prosecutor under Teresa Clingman, she has handled too many cases to count. She treats her position as a guardian of the public trust, as she should. She is often absent from functions with family and friends on weekends and evenings, because she is preparing for trial on behalf of the citizens of Texas and in particular, our community. That is a rare quality in a government employee, and one we believe exceptionally qualifies her to represent our interests as district attorney. Laura is a bright, resourceful, dedicated attorney who loves her work and her community and is dedicated to keeping us safe. We unconditionally urge you to vote for her in the Republican primary. Mike Borland Midland needs Lundys judgment I have known Will Lundy for 30 years, both personally and professionally. He grew up in Midland and is committed to the security and safety of our community. Will is an experienced and skillful prosecutor and will be tough on crime. Midland needs his leadership and judgment as district attorney. C.H. (Hal) Brockett Jr. Voters should promote Nodolf to top spot I have known Laura Nodolf since she first moved to Midland. As a native Midlander, I have seen many people come and go. It was clear from the beginning Laura was here to stay. She has made her home here and given unceasingly of her time and talents to her church, her office and her community service projects. Her professional qualifications are as both trial attorney and executive supervisor of other attorneys/support staff. She was initially hired and promoted by Al Schorre 13 years ago. She currently holds the No. 2 position as first assistant district attorney under Ms. Teresa Clingman in the Midland DAs office. In this position she directly supervises all of the prosecutors, including Mr. Will Lundy. She has successfully prosecuted more than 200 cases as a felony prosecutor in Midland. She spearheaded efforts to improve transparency in the District Attorneys Office. She has led the project to take that office paperless, thus improving its efficiency for both prosecutors and defenders. Maturity is more than age. It is life experiences and choices. Laura is a wife, mother, volunteer, victims advocate, executive and incredible trial attorney. She is the choice for district attorney. Misty Borland Phiffer Maturity makes Lundy most qualified Midland County is fortunate to have two qualified candidates running for district attorney. This is an important position for our community. We need someone to enforce the law and that person also has to have the judgment to make the punishment fit the crime as well as the judgment to know when a case should not be pursued or a lesser charge brought. This is a delicate balance. A great assistant DA has to be a good trial lawyer but the DA also has the final responsibility for the charges to file and the punishment sought. This decision is often unpopular one way or the other. Having considered the candidates, their qualifications, as well as their maturity and judgment, I believe that Will Lundy is the better choice and most qualified. I endorse Will Lundy and urge Midlanders to vote for him. John A. Jad Davis Nodolf works tirelessly for justice I want to take this opportunity to endorse Laura Nodolf in her candidacy to be our next Midland County district attorney. Laura Nodolf has the temperament, tenacity and right experience with the office to be most effective as district attorney. She and her family are committed to Midland. Over the past 13 years she has dedicated herself to the citizens of Midland County, serving as a misdemeanor and felony prosecutor. Additionally, she has been a trial team chief and first assistant district attorney allowing her the opportunity to learn the daily operations of the office. I had an opportunity to witness firsthand Lauras professionalism and dedication to the DAs office when she and Teresa Clingman prosecuted a case involving a very dangerous predator. Laura exhibited not only exceptional legal knowledge and articulate prosecution, but she also had compassion for the impacted citizens. She worked tirelessly to see that justice was served, while at the same time assisting my family with compassion and kindness in the midst of this tumultuous time. We need someone with Lauras wisdom and character serving us as district attorney. I urge you to vote for Laura Nodolf for Midland County district attorney. Jack Rathbone Lundys experience will serve residents well I am asking the voters of Midland County to join me in voting for Will Lundy because I know he is the most qualified to be our next district attorney. I have lived and worked in Midland for the past 43 years. I was a law enforcement officer for more than 20 years, and I served as a Texas Ranger in Midland for the last 10 years of my law enforcement career. Since then, I have continued to work with local law enforcement, and in and around the court system. I have worked with many district attorneys in my career, and I know what makes a good one. I know Will Lundy, and I know that his broad experience as a criminal prosecutor will serve the citizens of Midland well. I highly recommend him as Midlands next district attorney. A.L. Al Mitchell Nodolf is committed to our safety I ask you to join me in voting for Laura Nodolf to serve as district attorney. As Midland has grown, Laura has passionately worked in diverse aspects of the District Attorneys Office at every level while holding onto the same values of honesty and integrity that define Midland. She is proactively preparing for change by assisting in implementing procedures and technology to best seek justice in an ever-changing face of criminal justice. Laura has the right experience, the relevant experience, to lead the DAs office. Her peers recognize this as the Texas District and County Attorney Association has sought her out as an educational instructor and as a member of a statewide task force on intoxication-related offenses that improves practices and policies to ultimately protect us. Laura Nodolf has proven to Midlanders that she is both accountable and accessible. Shes invested in Midland and committed to our safety. Shes tuned into the needs of our community as a professional, a citizen and a parent. Shes a leader as a prosecutor, an administrator and a caring individual who is immersed in our community. Im proud to call her a friend, and Id be proud to call her district attorney. Paige Williams Sumner Lundy is serious candidate Midland needs I have known Will Lundy for 20 years. We initially met through our respective places of employment when I was employed with the Midland Adult Probation Department as a probation officer, and Mr. Lundy was employed as an assistant district attorney (Felony Division) under Al Schorre. No matter the type of case, I, and other probation officers, always knew that we could depend upon Mr. Lundy to come to court prepared, and aware of everything that was going on involving the case. Mr. Lundy also made it a point to be available to probation officers to discuss cases. Mr. Lundy always presented with the utmost professionalism in his dealings with probation officers and in dealing fairly with offenders. I found Mr. Lundy to have an excellent knowledge of the law, and not one for courtroom antics, or theatrics, when prosecuting a case. If a district attorney who is serious about the office and all it entails, who maintains professionalism, who knows the law and who has extensive experience in the field of legal prosecution is important to you, then I encourage you to vote for Will Lundy for Midland County district attorney. Roxie Blair Unwavering principles make Nodolf right pick We urge our fellow Midlanders to vote for Laura Nodolf for district attorney. Laura exudes passion and dedication to the community. She possesses both the skill and leadership qualities required to be Midland County district attorney. Laura has been an invaluable asset over her accomplished 13-year tenure with the District Attorneys Office. She has played a crucial role overseeing staff, improving procedures and ensuring the DAs office operates effectively and efficiently. Lauras unwavering principles and commitment are the foremost reasons why Laura warrants your consideration. Laura has tried more than 200 cases, each one a testament to her knowledge and expertise. Lauras vision and resolve will provide a pathway to an even more effective DAs Office. Morghan and I would like to thank Laura for her service to this community. As lifelong residents of Midland, we candidly endorse Laura Nodolf for district attorney. Ross Roach Lundy understands whats needed I am supporting Will Lundy for district attorney. Understanding the criminal justice system and making it work as it should require lots of experience, wisdom and judgment. I know Will Lundy, and he has the experience, judgment, discretion and wisdom that Midland County needs in its district attorney. I hope you will join me in voting for Will Lundy in the Republican primary. Max E. Wright Nodolf has passion for passion for serving I believe Laura Nodolf will make an excellent district attorney for Midland County. She is committed to protecting the citizens of Midland from offenders and is dedicated to our community. Laura actively donates her time to many nonprofit organizations, and I have seen her devotion to Midland firsthand. I have had the privilege to serve with Laura on the PTA Executive Board where our children attend school together, the Junior League of Midland and at First United Methodist Church. Through this, I have seen her leadership skills and her passion for serving Midland. Laura is invested in Midland and has made it home for her family. She is committed to bettering our community and keeping it safe for my family and yours. Please join me in supporting Laura Nodolf for district attorney. Penelope Hicks Lundy has track record for job Please vote on March 1 for Will Lundy, candidate for Midland County district attorney. Will was born and raised in a wonderful Midland family, attended Midland schools and was educated at Texas Tech for both undergrad and law school. With his 29 years of experience, Will Lundy has the track record to get the job done right. Liz Chancellor Former cohort picks Nodolf As the retired first assistant district attorney for Midland County, I believe I can offer a unique prospective on the candidates since both of them worked for me. With respect to Mr. Will Lundy, I must say that I am surprised he is running for this office. His work was competent -- no more, no less. Additionally, he has not held a leadership position in the DAs Office. I have known Laura Nodolf since she was one of my first-year law students. Laura has handled every job through skill and extremely hard work. She came to the DAs Office in 2003 and has performed her job with unfailing dedication and professionalism. Laura is also a leader. She is a trial team leader and is the first assistant DA for trials. She has worked diligently with all law enforcement agencies as the DAs Office liaison. In short, I believe she is the logical choice as Midlands next district attorney and urge you to vote for her. Stephen A. Stallings Tomball Former mayor selects Lundy As the former mayor of Midland, and a native Midlander, I am endorsing Will Lundy for district attorney. Will and I grew up together, and I am convinced Will is the most qualified and experienced candidate for district attorney. He has the temperament, judgment and qualifications necessary to represent Midland County. Please join me in voting for Will Lundy for district attorney. Wes Perry County Commissioner, Precinct 1 Ramsey has experience needed I am proud to endorse Scott Ramsey for Midland County commissioner for Precinct 1. I have known Scott and his family for the past 10 years and feel that his business experience will be extremely valuable to Midland during these unsettling times in the oil industry. Scott has maintained a business in the upturn as well as the downturn in Midlands economy. I feel that Scott will have the determination and will to make tough decisions within our county government to do what is best for Midland. We are lucky to have a man like Scott who is ready to willingly give back to our community and help to keep Midland a great place to live and raise a family. Please join me and my family in voting for Scott Ramsey for Midland County commissioner of Precinct 1.Sherri Merket Jones has right character for the job For a number of years, I have had the pleasure to observe and participate in life with Grace and Jeremy Jones at Crestview Baptist. As a young couple they joined our Sunday School class, and I remember these young kids showing up at church with a herd of little ones in tow. Then, I watched them go through Dave Ramseys Financial Peace University, and more importantly, I saw them apply Daves principles to their personal finances. It was a struggle, but they never let up on the discipline necessary to win with money. Now, I see them taking the lead in their own ministry opportunities. Grace leading a womens group and serving in the childrens area is significant. True leadership is about serving. They both get that. If character is measured by effort to always do the right thing, to be held accountable, to serve others, and then to raise a family and work hard, then Grace and Jeremy are loaded. I have no doubt that Grace will bring this kind of character to the Midland County Commissioners Court. Mark McCraney Values make Ramsey the pick With all the drama in the upcoming presidential election, I hope that Midland County residents do take time to get to know their neighbors running in our local elections. In particular, I hope my fellow Precinct 1 residents get to know Scott Ramsey, who is running for Precinct 1 commissioner. Paul and I have been privileged to know Scott through his wife, Ellen. Ellen has been very active in the philanthropic community of Midland. And as everyone knows, behind any civic volunteer there is a supportive spouse. Scott is always there to lend some muscle setting up for events, to put on an apron to help cook and serve at various functions and to financially support many great organizations in our community. Scott is a true team player as he has demonstrated in his successful marriage of 30 years and a savvy businessman. Scott was raised in Pecos and has been part of the Midland community for more than 20 years. He shares the same values that make West Texas so unique: strong family values, fiscal conservatism and community pride. Please consider joining me in voting for Scott Ramsey for Precinct 1 commissioner. Valerie Acosta Constable, Precinct 2 Wohleking has experience for job Im Constable Mark Wohleking, candidate for re-election as the Precinct 2 constable. Im writing to clarify an oversight concerning the League of Women Voters Guide in the Feb. 14 edition. Under constables it showed Received No Response. I did not want my constituents to think I would not take the time or effort to fill out the questionnaire. I was informed by the League of Women Voters a questionnaire would be sent to me. I never received it, and therefore never submitted one. I believe this was merely an oversight but I would like to address the qualifications portion asked of the candidates. I am 54 years old, I attended Sul Ross State University, I am a 34-year law enforcement veteran, having retired from the Midland Police Department after 26 years. As a detective over 22 years Ive worked every spectrum of law enforcement including nine years as an undercover narcotics officer. I have the experience, job knowledge and the professionalism that should represent this elected office having filed cases and testifying in courts at the local, state and federal levels, and I have been your Precinct 2 constable since 2012. Thank you for your continued trust and support. Mark Wohleking County Clerk Haley deserves your vote I support Alison Haley for re-election as county clerk of Midland County. She has worked in the clerks office for 18 years and has served in the top office since her appointment by the Commissioners Court It is a complex job. The county clerk supervises the most diverse division of county government birth and death records, land records since the inception of the county, including oil and gas leases, criminal cases, civil litigation, mental commitments, juvenile cases and probate of estates. It is essential to have the most experienced person in that office to supervise operation. Vote qualifications. It matters in this election. I met Alison when she was probate clerk. She has always been professional, helpful and pleasant, whether she is dealing with the lawyers or the public. Alison Haley is an exceptional civil servant and deserves your vote. Mary Lou Cassidy Keep Haley as county clerk On Tuesday, Midland County will elect county clerk. Alison Haley has served the citizens of Midland in this office for almost two decades, starting as a young deputy and most recently, as our county clerk. As an attorney, I have worked with Alison on a regular basis for many years, and I support her continued service as our county clerk. Alison Haley is dedicated, personable, professional and always accessible to the public she serves. As a minister, I often visit with Alison about our Jesus, and I know that Alison shares our Christian values. Midland is blessed to have Alison as a public servant and I urge the voters of Midland to keep Alison Haley as our county Clerk. Mark Henry Dettman Haley has been competent manager Alison Haley has the right skills, experience and demeanor for the job of Midland county clerk. I have worked with Alison over the past 18 years as she has progressed in her career in the County Clerks Office. In my companys work and in my personal responsibilities of serving as the executor of estates and as the trustee of trusts, I regularly have need of the services of the County Clerks Office. Alison Haley is professional and very competent in her skills and in her knowledge of managing a staff and office. She exhibits a pleasant and accommodating personality to all of the citizens and professional advisors who utilize the County Clerks Office. I encourage Midland County voters to vote for retaining Alison Haley as our county clerk. Jack Swallow President Clinton isnt the best choice One can easily make a good case for Hillary Clinton based upon one-liners and an outline of positions held without examining what she really accomplished. Clinton took her reset button to Russia, and the result is conflict in the Crimea, the Ukraine, ongoing conflict in the Caucasus region and Russia flying combat missions not against ISIS but against U.S.-backed Syrian rebels. What should be facing Hillary Clinton is prison time for the compromise of classified documents as prescribed by U.S. law. We wont even address corruption charges being looked at by the FBI. Having served more than 20 years in the military with most of that involving the handling of classified material at or above the level Clinton was involved in compromising, I can guarantee that if anyone else had done what she has done, they would already be in prison. But then again, Clinton is above the law -- just ask her. And we wont get into her war on women in defending Bill Clinton against women accusing him of sexual misconduct or her role in the Iran nuclear deal that will allow Iran to have nuclear weapons; they wont abide by the deal. Donald R. Speir Support a candidate who makes Alzheimers a priority We are entering the heart of the 2016 election season, and the next big moment comes up on Tuesday. As one of the 12 states with a Super Tuesday primary, voters here in Texas have a lot of factors to weigh as they contemplate who our next commander-in-chief should be. For me, I know that what the candidates are saying about Alzheimers disease will be influence my choice because of how it devastates millions of American families, overwhelms our health care system and threatens Medicare. According to a recent survey by the Alzheimers Association, 73 million American voters know someone with Alzheimers. I count myself as one of those Americans, as I am a caregiver for my dad who has been living with Alzheimers for the past 13 years, and before that I was a caregiver for my grandfather. Ive experienced firsthand the emotional and financial toll of this devastating disease. But at least my dad was fortunate enough to receive a diagnosis in the first place. According to the Alzheimers Association, the sad reality is that only 45 percent of Americans with Alzheimers are ever diagnosed. That means that the majority living with Alzheimers never even know it. I believe that our state and nation dont face an issue more critical than Alzheimers disease. Despite the sobering statistics, I feel a great deal of hope in our battle against this disease. There has been some real progress achieved in the last year. Congress passed a historic 60 percent increase in Alzheimers funding last December. And a few of the leading presidential candidates in both parties have pledged support for and shared their plans for increasing federal government support for Alzheimers research. I want to protect our progress and send the message that our work is nowhere near complete. I will be casting my ballot on Super Tuesday for a candidate who makes urgent action against Alzheimers a priority. Mary Wright-McCourt Sen. Cruz Announces Endorsement of Cathy Costello Widow of former Oklahoma Labor Commissioner Mark Costello endorses Houston, Texas Today, Ted Cruz announced the endorsement of Oklahoma leader and widow of former Oklahoma Labor Commissioner Mark Costello.I am humbled to have the support of Cathy Costello, a strong conservative leader in Oklahoma, Cruz stated. Cathy has continued a proud legacy of service to Oklahoma left by her husband, Mark Costello."Since the murder of my husband at the hands of our son, I have dedicated my time and energy to removing the stigma of mental illness and encouraging lawmakers to openly talk about mental health as a serious political and economic issue, said Costello.1 in 4 Americans suffers with mental illness and addiction. Ted Cruz is the only candidate who has dedicated himself to addressing mental health. He authored legislation expanding mental health courts and crisis intervention, and he has a personal interest and understanding of the tragedy of mental illness. We need a leader who is bold enough to address this national crisis we have deliberately ignored for far too long. The best chance we have to see real reform, to openly discuss solutions to the mental illness epidemic that destroys families regardless of socio-economic status, is to elect Ted Cruz as our next President."Cathy Costello is the widow of former Oklahoma Labor Commissioner Mark Costello. They were married almost 34 years. Mark Costello was tragically murdered by his mentally ill son in August of 2015. Since that tragedy, Cathy Costello has dedicated herself to breaking down mental illness stigmas and encouraging lawmakers to address mental illness as a serious political and economic issue. Sarkodie should have been bigger than ... We call them smartphones, small computers that fit in our pockets that can track our location and even pay for things. They can be lost and stolen and they use the same cell service and internet as millions of other devices. Above all people need to trust the information in them is safe from hackers and thieves. But what about law enforcement? On February 18th an informal myMotherLode poll question asked, Should Law Enforcement Be Able To Access Smartphone Data With A Search Warrant? 65 percent said Yes, 29 percent said No, and 6 percent didnt know. The Supreme Court of California in January 2011 ruled, in People v. Diaz, that law enforcement officers can conduct a warrant less search of a smartphone after an arrest. The Supreme Court denied hearing the case after learning the California Legislature passed a bill requiring police to obtain a warrant before searching the contents of any portable electronic devices. But, one week later, the Governor vetoed the bill, stating that courts are better suited to decide this issue of Fourth Amendment law. The Supreme Court decision Riley v. California settled the issue on June 2014: the search-incident-to-arrest doctrine does not apply to cell phones, law enforcement should get a warrant. The fourth amendment states: The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no Warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by Oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized. How to legally define a warrant for wire tapping and when it is necessary to get a warrant took decades to sort out through the courts, and ultimately special legislation was passed to regulate it. According to a report by the American Bar Association (ABA) Title III of the Omnibus Crime Control Act of 1968 remains the law that governs the federal use of wiretaps including electronic information. The ABA report notes the federal government may be granted a wiretap order if it can prove there is probable cause for specific crimes: mail fraud, wire fraud, kidnapping, money laundering, bank fraud or computer fraud. When granted a warrant investigators agree to make a reasonable effort to minimize the interception of non-relevant calls and information. Information from a smartphone can be accessed in many ways as detailed in the report Guidelines on Mobile Device Forensics by the National Institute of Standards and Technology, U.S. Department of Commerce here. Although there are many complexities, the main issue is of privacy versus what is a reasonable and necessary search. A smartphone can contain a lot of information that is not relevant to an investigation as well as information vital to an investigation that only a smartphone can contain. In addition after all recovery methods available are exhausted the FBI decided to bring the maker of iPhones, Apple into the debate. The FBI and Apple both recently asked congress to settle the question of when and if law enforcement should access citizens smartphone data. Microsoft, Google, Twitter, Facebook and Yahoo have said they will support Apple by filing amicus briefs related to a court order. A court approved the FBI requesting Apple unlock a specific iPhone. The iPhone was purchased by the County of San Bernardino and used by Syed Farook, an inspector for the countys public health department. Farook and his wife, Tashfeen Malik, killed 14 people and wounded over 20 others on December 2nd. The couple destroyed two personally owned cell phones, crushing them beyond the FBIs ability to recover information from them, and removing a hard drive from their computer that has not been found despite investigators diving for days in a nearby lake. The iPhone was found in a car after the two were killed in a shoot out with police. According to the Associated Press the county allowed access to the phones iCloud information, but Farook stopped backing-up his phone six weeks prior to the terrorist attack. No one knows the access code to the iPhone, after 10 wrong attempts all the data will be inaccessible. The information is currently inaccessible even to Apple, who has provided default encryption security on its iPhones since October 2014. The feature is great for lost or stole iPhones but also can prevent state and local law enforcement, with warrants for smartphone information, from getting data from a phone. Googles Android phones are also rolling out similar default full-disk encryption. Legislation to make such encryption illegal has been proposed in New York and California. Logically, if tech companies did comply with with the law, encrypted phones could be bought in other states and other ways to enable encryption will continue to be available. Apple responded on February 25th that it wants to Vacate the Order compelling it to assist the FBI. According to the AP a New York Magistrate already ruled on February 15th that the FBI cannot make Apple access locked iPhone data related to a routine Brooklyn drug case. Apple noted in that case, as in the California case, the security of its operating system reflects their strong views about consumer security and privacy: By forcing Apple to write software that would undermine those values, the government seeks to compel Apples speech and to force Apple to express the governments viewpoint on security and privacy instead of its own. Apple says, The governments demand also violates Apples Fifth Amendment right essentially burdening the company with what to do with the new code to hack a phone after being forced to create it. Apple estimates to unlock the one phone it will take six to ten of its engineers and employees working a minimum of two to four weeks. Apple then has to decide if the code will be used on one phone at a time, or given to the government to use on any phone, both of which Apple says would be bad. Apple estimates the number of phones that different states and governments currently want access to runs in the tens of thousands. Apple or the FBI would have to manage every iPhone search warrant request, essentially creating a forensic lab that handles iPhone evidence. The code and the activity of the lab would become a target for hackers and espionage. A response from the FBI to Apple is due by March 10th. A hearing is scheduled for March 22nd. Hip-hop, break dancing, and graffiti--three phrases that mean different things to different people. This week's Everyday Hero, though, is using the culture of hip-hop as an educational tool for kids. Candy Molia says that becoming a breakdancer, or "b-girl", wasn't planned. "It started off in sort of a negative way, because someone told us that 'you can't do this,' said Molia. "We did it anyway, of course, and then we really fell in love with the culture itself, not just the dance." Candy and her twin sister broke into the male-dominated world of hip-hop in the 90's, and discovered that hip-hop was much more than just rap music. "Hip-hop is full-out culture," said Molia. "It has all of these different elements to it, it has a history to it, it has its pioneers, and it really unites people from all walks of life in a positive way." While Molia's life moved from careers to children, she always stayed involved, becoming a self-proclaimed "child of this culture." "There are four elements of hip-hop culture," said Molia. "There's breaking, MC-ing, DJ-ing, and graffiti... and then some say that there's a fifth element, which is knowledge." Combining the elements with her background in early childhood education, Molia co-developed "Child of this Culture" as an urban arts program for youth. Her B-Baby Program, initially backed by a United Arts grant, has grown into weekly classes at Lake Ivanhoe for ages six and up. A book, "I Am Hop," provides a primer on the culture, as well as the moves. "Sometimes you just need art and culture in your life," said Molia. "I love the fact that we're able to give people that in this fun way." Kids learn all aspects of the culture, but while some gravitate to dance, others are taught graffiti as an art form, and not as a form of vandalism. The Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University is mourning the loss of one of its own after a graduate was killed in the line of duty just one day after she was sworn in. Police officer Ashley Guindon, 28, of Prince William County, Virginia, was fatally shot on her first day on patrol after responding to a domestic violence call. Two other officers were wounded. Guindon graduated from Embry-Riddle in 2010 where she was an aeronautical major. She minored in Homeland Security. Her former professor describes her as hard working and said she had a love for law enforcement. We will memorialize her somewhere at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University," said Chris Bonner, Homeland Security professor. "She is and will forever be in Eagle and occupy a special place in our hearts. Professor Bonner says Guindon was also a part of the Marine Corps. The suspect, Ronald Hamilton, is being held without bond on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer. Police say Hamilton's wife was fatally shot by her husband before police arrived. Their 11-year-old son was at home at the time of the shootings. He is now being cared for by relatives. Republican presidential hopeful Donald Trump is making a stop in South Florida this week. His campaign announced he would attend an event not open to the public in Palm Beach on Super Tuesday. The event will be at the Mar-a-Lago Club, which Trump owns and operates for special events. His time in Palm Beach is not without controversy. Ever since he purchased the estate, he has been in legal battles with the City of Palm Beach and the airport. Litigation with the airport is still pending as Trump seeks $100 million in damages for the noise and emissions from planes flying overhead. Trump also had to defend Mar-a-Lago this month when it was revealed the club hires foreign guest workers under the H-2B nonimmigrant program. He told a reporter last week that it was difficult to get qualified American workers, because they are seasonal jobs, and American workers want full-time jobs. Trump maintains a part-time residence in Palm Beach and may be looking to celebrate Tuesday evening as the polls close for the Republican primaries. Trump has already won three primaries in his run to secure the Republican nomination for president. He scored victories in New Hampshire, South Carolina and Nevada. On Monday, Trump visited two universities for public rallies in Virginia. At Radford University, protesters interrupted Trumps speech multiple times. Several were escorted out, and some arrests were made. During Trumps speech in Virginia, he talked about his personal success and belittled his opponents. Ted Cruz is smarter... He's a smarter person than (Florida Sen. Marco) Rubio," Trump said. "Folks, it's not going to work. He thinks it's good we call him lion den. He'll listen to me say something, and he'll get up somewhere else and say the exact opposite of what I said. Trump also took a stab at the media. He said he wanted to revamp libel laws so it would be easier to sue news organizations. He also repeated his mission to have a wall built along the Mexican border and said he will bring overseas jobs back to America. After his speech in Virginia, Trump traveled to southern Georgia, where he held a rally at Valdosta State University. Super Tuesday will also be a busy day for Trump. He is scheduled to hold public rallies in both Columbus, Ohio, and Louisville, Kentucky, in addition to traveling to Palm Beach. We will have continuous coverage of his campaign stops Tuesday. President Barack Obama shined a spotlight on a "special breed of warrior" as he awarded the nation's highest military honor Monday to a Navy SEAL who participated in a daring 2012 raid that rescued an American hostage in Afghanistan. Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator Edward Byers Jr. is the first living, active duty member of the Navy to receive the Medal of Honor in four decades. Obama said during a ceremony at the White House that Byers is the "consummate, quiet professional" who would rather be elsewhere, perhaps holding his breath under dark, frigid water. "Today's ceremony is truly unique, a rare opportunity for the American people to get a glimpse of a special breed of warrior who so often serves in the shadows," Obama said, calling the ceremony perhaps the largest gather of special-operations members in the history of the White House. Byers participated in the rescue of Dr. Dilip Joseph, who was abducted along with his driver and Afghan interpreter. The rescue was undertaken three days after the abduction by members of the Navy's famed SEAL Team 6. "Whenever Americans are taken hostage in the world, we move heaven and earth to bring them home safe," Obama said. "We send some thunder and some lightning." Obama recounted during the ceremony how the SEALs team rushed the building where the doctor has been taken. Byers ripped down a layer of blankets, exposing himself to enemy fire. A teammate pushed in and was shot. Byers moved in next and fired at an enemy guard. Hearing English, Byers threw himself on the hostage, using his body to shield Joseph from the bullets, Obama said. Another enemy fighter appeared, and with his bare hands, Byers pinned the fighter to the wall and held him until his teammates took action. "It was over almost as soon as it began. In just minutes, by going after those guards, Ed saved the lives of several teammates, and that hostage," Obama said. Once the doctor was moved to a helicopter landing zone, Byers, a certified paramedic, assisted in providing medical aid to his wounded colleague, who died of his wounds. That SEAL was Petty Officer 1st Class Nicolas D. Checque, 28, of Monroeville, Pennsylvania. Obama also honored Checque's service during Monday's ceremony, noting that he is among 55 SEALs to make the ultimate sacrifice since the September 11 terrorist attacks. "He was an American hero, and he was the hero of that operation," Byers told reporters in a statement that he read just after the ceremony. "He died a warrior. He died to bring back another American." Six months after a heroin task force was established in Orange County, law enforcement is now focusing on the impact the drug is having across Central Florida. The task force, comprised of several agencies, will meet today at the Commission Chambers to discuss the heroin-related mortality rate in the area. It was established back in August 2015, with the goal of addressing the extraordinary spike in heroin. Since then it has conducted crack downs and major drug busts. Just a few weeks ago, a major drug bust led investigators to drug lord Ruth Perez Lopez, 74, and 10 others who were accused of distributing two kilos of heroin a month. Officials say stopping the dealers is one way to address the problem. They also need to break through to the community, like those living with drug addiction. I think we can reach more people if we get it out there that we are normal everyday people," said Blake Nickerson, a recovering heroin addict. Nickerson is scheduled to address the task force and share his experience with addition and recovery. There were 90 heroin-related deaths in Orange County in 2014. That was a staggering increase of 84 percent from 2013. Today, the task force is expected to release data about the number of heroin-related deaths in 2015. The University of Central Florida now has a total of $13 million in contributions for its planned downtown campus thanks to new donations. On Monday, UCF announced that it had received seven donations totaling $2.5 million. UCF says they received the following contributions: $1 million from Creative Village Development, LLC $500,000 from Orlando philanthropist Alan Ginsburg $300,000 from Orlando City Soccer Club $250,000 from CNL Financial Group $250,000 from Universal Orlando Foundation and Universal Orlando Resort $100,000 from Dr. Bruce Douglas of Winter Park $100,000 from Coca-Cola UCF officials say the gifts will help fund construction of a new academic building that will be the centerpiece of the UCF Downtown campus serving about 7,700 UCF and Valencia College students. Earlier this month the City of Orlando donated 15 acres of land and a building to the project, a $75 million investment. The central fixture to the sprawling campus will be an academic building that will cost roughly $60 million to construct. The cost will be split in thirds: $20 million from the university; another $20 million in private funding; and asking the state for the remaining $20 million. On Wednesday UCF will present its plan to the Florida Board of Governors, which oversees the State University System. PREVIOUS STORIES In a time when patriotism is being questioned and political parties are in turmoil, there is one group of people who understand what it means to be a citizen of the United States of America immigrants who have earned citizenship status. On Friday, the School of Fine Arts at Wayland Baptist University celebrated as Associate Professor of Communication and Media Studies Dr. Yahui Zhang returned from Fort Worth where she participated in a ceremony completing the naturalization process and becoming an official citizen of the United States of America. Zhang said choosing to become a citizen was very personal and the love and support showed by her co-workers and students, who decorated her office with streamers, balloons and small United States flags, was overwhelming. This is my adopted country, Zhang said. Personally, to me, although there are a lot of realities that we still have to work with, the American ideals are just so high and lofty that I strongly identify with them. That is one of the most important reasons that I decided to become a naturalized citizen. Zhang, from Xian, China, came to the United States 14 years ago with her husband to pursue an education. I taught English when I was in China, she said. My husband and I knew that the best universities are in the United States. He, and myself, really wanted me to get the highest degree. Thats why we came to the United States. This is the land of opportunity. Zhang began the naturalization process in October 2015. Her final interview was on Feb. 20 with the swearing in ceremony taking place Feb. 25. At a time when the country is mired in a presidential election, Zhang is hoping she can be registered in time to vote in the general election. She said there was a group at the ceremony handing out information and guidelines for completing voter registration. Zhang said it will take her some time to go through the packet of information, but she is looking forward to being able to vote. In Texas, citizens must be registered 30 days prior to the election to be eligible to vote. This will be my first time exercising my right and responsibility as a citizen, she said. And while the current campaigns are heating up, she is not intimidated by the nature of American politics. It is polarized, she said of the political situation, but its still a democratic election process and we have to be grateful for that. HARTFORD Pending legislation would make threatening a state or federal judge punishable by up to a decade in prison. Under current law, first-degree threatening is a class D felony carrying a maximum prison sentence of five years. A bill introduced by the legislatures Judiciary Committee would make first-degree threatening a class C felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison if the threatened party is a judge of the superior court, appellate court or supreme court, a state referee, a judge of another state or a federal judge. The proposal would make misdemeanor second-degree threatening a felony punishable by up to three years in prison if the threat is directed at a judge. State law defines first-degree threatening as an act meant to terrorize others or cause the evacuation of a building. The charge is also applicable if an individual threatens to use a firearm. An individual can be charged with second-degree threatening if they make physical threats toward another not involving a firearm. There have been several instances of judges being threatened in recent years. Most recently, Edward Taupier, of Cromwell, was sentenced in January to 18 months in prison for threatening to shoot a family court judge overseeing his divorce case. Threats against Hartford Superior Court Judge Elizabeth Bozzuto were made in an email to several people, though the email was not sent to Bozzuto. In March 2015, Garrett Santillo, of Florida, pleaded guilty to mailing numerous threatening letters to individuals in Connecticut, including two federal judges. Another bill would make threatening a Department of Children and Families worker a felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison. The legislation was crafted in response to a series of threats and assaults against social workers, according to DCF Commissioner Joette Katz. Last week, the Committee on Children unanimously approved the legislation, which is pending further action by the General Assembly. aragali@record-journal.com 203-317-2224 Twitter: @Andyragz Apple's iPhone 5s isn't done yet. Image source: Apple. Apple is expected to launch a successor to the popular iPhone 5s in just under a month known as the iPhone SE. The device, per generally reliable KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo (via AppleInsider), is expected to feature substantial hardware upgrades from the iPhone 5s. Indeed, it is said to be essentially an iPhone 6s in a 4-inch form factor, sans the costly 3D Touch feature. The device is expected to be priced at between $400 and $500 (my bet is on $450 for the variant with 16 gigabytes of storage and $500 for 64 GB) -- quite a nice price for such a fully loaded iPhone. Perhaps what's more interesting, though, is that Kuo believes that Apple will slash the price of its venerable iPhone 5s by a full 50%. The variant with 16 GB of storage sells for $450 off-contract, with the 32 GB model going for $50 more. A 50% price cut would bring these prices down to $225 and $250, respectively. Let's take a closer look at what, if true, this might mean for investors. This is a smart plan to bulk up the installed base Apple customers tend to be loyal, so it's in the company's best interests to grow its installed base as much as possible. Once these buyers are hooked, there's a good chance they will bring revenue in the future through additional device purchases (iPad, Mac, etc.), upgrades to new iPhones later on, and even use of the company's growing (and lucrative) set of software and services. The iPhone 5s, though hardly a leading-edge device these days, is a well-built, attractive, and fast device that should serve as a relatively low-cost gateway to the Apple/iOS ecosystem. At this point, it's also probably very cheap for Apple to make as manufacturing yields on this device are certainly quite high and the components inside are so old that Apple can probably acquire them quite cheaply. Is there much risk of cannibalization? Perhaps the biggest risk here is that of "cannibalization" of the company's newer large-screen iPhone 6/6s series of devices or even its upcoming 4-inch iPhone SE. The first thing I should note is that I very much doubt that the iPhone 5s will continue to be offered in mature markets. It's quite likely that these "ultra-cheap" iPhones will be targeted at regions (think emerging markets) in which Apple has very little market segment share due to the high prices of its devices relative to average personal income in those countries. I would peg cannibalization risk as quite minimal if Apple goes about this properly. Risk of gross margin erosion? Another risk that investors might be worried about is the potential gross profit margin erosion that may occur as a result of such a price cut. After all, an iPhone 5s sold at $450 is certainly going to bring in far more gross profit dollars than an iPhone 5s sold at just $225. However, if Apple sees a substantial surge in demand for the devices, the incremental unit shipments (particularly in regions where iPhones are simply inaccessible) could be enough to allow for at least a similar amount of total gross profit dollars (gross profit per unit multiplied by number of units) even if per-unit margins are lower. With that in mind, even if Apple doesn't sell enough incremental units to make up for the lost per-unit margins, it could justify this as a longer-term bet (installed base/user acquisition) that won't pay off until sometime down the road. Such a move obviously carries risk, but I doubt the decision makers at Apple will implement such a move without carefully weighing the benefits and risks. If true, a good move from Apple I think that a significant price cut on the iPhone 5s sold into certain, strategic regions makes quite a lot of sense. It's imperative that the company grow its installed base and raise awareness of its brand in markets where iPhones sold at today's prices are simply inaccessible. By employing this strategy -- rather than developing targeted "low-cost" products -- Apple can sell what is undeniably a high-quality (if somewhat dated) product at an entry-level price point. No compromise of Apple's fundamental principles required. 3 companies poised to explode when cable dies Cable is dying. And there are 3 stocks that are poised to explode when this faltering $2.2 trillion industry finally bites the dust. Just like newspaper publishers, telephone utilities, stockbrokers, record companies, bookstores, travel agencies, and big box retailers did when the Internet swept away their business models. And when cable falters, you don't want to miss out on these 3 companies that are positioned to benefit. Click here for their names. Hint: They're not the ones you'd think! The article Apple Inc. Reportedly to Slash iPhone 5s Prices by 50% originally appeared on Fool.com. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. Image source: Flickr user Cannabis Culture. What happens when an unstoppable force meets an immovable object? One only has to look at the rift between the marijuana industry (aka, the unstoppable force) and the federal government (the immovable object) to get a good feel. The unstoppable force and the immovable object Two decades ago the idea of legalizing marijuana in any way was considered highly taboo. Then, in 1996, California became the first state to pass a law legalizing the use of marijuana for medicinal purposes. Some 20 years later we now have 23 states that have legal medical marijuana laws on their books, with four states (along with Washington, D.C.) allowing for the sale of recreational marijuana as well. With a few rare exceptions, such as Ohio this past November and Florida in November 2014, marijuana has been breezing to steady victories when put on the ballot and voted on by state residents. This isn't all too surprising considering that national polls peg respondents to be slightly in favor of legalizing the drug. Gallup's October 2015 poll showed that 58% of respondents wanted to see marijuana legalized. Image source; Flickr user Cannabis Culture. Legal marijuana is also translating into substantial tax revenue for states like Colorado and Washington, the first two states to legalize recreational use of the drug. In 2015, Colorado netted close to $1 billion in combined medical and recreational sales, and it generated around $135 million in tax and license revenue. At least $35 million has been earmarked for the state's education department, with additional funds also expected to be doled out to law enforcement and drug abuse programs. In short, marijuana looks unstoppable. Then we have the immovable object: Congress and the president. President Obama has suggested that marijuana isn't on his agenda during his final year in the Oval Office, and Congressional lawmakers haven't demonstrated any urgency in addressing a possible rescheduling of marijuana. Part of this has to do with lawmakers viewing other issues as more pressing -- economic growth, jobs, national security, and so on. However, lawmakers also don't want to make a hasty decision on marijuana without having a complete safety profile on the drug. It takes time for long-term use studies to emerge, and until those studies are available, Congress appears content sitting on its hands. Marijuana businesses face inherent disadvantages The issue with federal government inaction is that it puts marijuana-based businesses at an inherent disadvantage to normal businesses. Image source: Drug Enforcement Agency. First, despite marijuana being illegal at the federal level, marijuana-based business still need to pay federal income taxes. The kicker is that because they're selling a federally illegal substance, they can't take normalized business deductions, such as rent, on their taxes. Being forced to pay tax on their gross profits rather than net profits means marijuana business are brutally overtaxed relative to other businesses. The other major issue here is that marijuana businesses have minimal or no access to basic banking services such as checking accounts or lines of credit. In some states, laws have been established to allow banks to interact with marijuana businesses, but the work-arounds are quite extensive. Most banks have chosen to simply avoid the industry rather than risk potential prosecution from the federal government. This leaves the marijuana industry dealing with an expansion problem since it has minimal access to loans, and a security problem since it deals mostly with cash. However, a solution, or should I say a secret weapon, could be on the way to partially rescue the marijuana industry. Meet marijuana's secret weapon Venture capitalists could wind up leveling the playing field for marijuana retailers, growers, and processors by providing the access to capital that's mostly lacking. Think about this for a moment: ArcView Market Research, after announcing that legal marijuana sales grew by 17% to $5.4 billion in 2015, is estimating that legal marijuana sales could grow by an average of 30% per year between 2016 and 2020. By 2020, this would peg legal marijuana as a $22 billion industry. That type of growth is bound to attract money, and while it's been a dismal performance for money-losing publicly-traded marijuana stocks, it's a potentially intriguing opportunity for venture capitalists. Image source: Flickr user Sebastiaan ter Burg. According to AngelList, a website that allows people to land jobs at start-ups, invest in start-ups, or raise money for their start-up business, marijuana is a hot investment. As of Feb. 21, 2016, its website listed 449 companies, 1,625 investors, and nearly 5,800 followers interested in various marijuana start-up businesses. Of those companies listed, each had an average valuation of $3.5 million. We certainly don't have far to look to see just how quickly the VC influence is spreading. Privateer Holdings, arguably the largest and most influential marijuana-based privately held VC, raised $75 million last year and has a variety of holdings it believes can reshape and take advantage of growth in the marijuana industry. It owns Marley Natural (and yes, the brand does have a licensing deal in place to use Bob Marley's name and likeness to sell medical marijuana), Tilray, a pharmaceutical-grade distributor of cannabis in Canada, and Leafly, an enormous resource of cannabis knowledge. But what makes Privateer so unique is that it's garnered an investment from Peter Thiel's Founders Fund. Thiel, if the name rings a bell, is one of PayPal's co-founders and its former CEO. He may also be, next to Calvin Broadus (aka, Snoop Dogg), the most influential investor in the marijuana industry to date. The other component that makes the VC-funding route so exciting is that they're bringing more to the table than just capital. VCs have innovative ideas that could take legal marijuana beyond the bounds of just growers, processors, and retailers. Image source: Flickr user Mark. For example, Eaze, a California-based medical marijuana delivery service, has developed an app that allows medical users to order marijuana with the click of a button. The company, which has received a healthy $12.5 million in funding and now services nearly 100 cities in California, suggests on its website that deliveries occur about 15 minutes after an order is placed. Convenience is key in any retail environment, and Eaze is hoping to capitalize on this trend. Transcend Lighting, which may I add is targeting more than just the marijuana industry, is another start-up that offers a new type of LED light that can reduce energy consumption by up to 70%, essentially paying for itself in a matter of a year due to cost savings. Lighting and energy costs are a major drain on marijuana growers, so Transcend and its VC investors are hoping its new LED option will catch on with growers. Still a risky proposition Comparatively speaking, VCs appear to offer more variety to prospective investors wanting to get in on the marijuana boom relative to the small handful of publicly traded marijuana stocks (most of which are losing money). Still, going either route offers major risks. As stated above, government inaction makes the long-term survival of the industry somewhat cloudy. As long as tax disadvantages exist at the federal level, growth in the marijuana industry will likely be constrained. Additionally, investors have to understand that businesses (including VCs) fail all the time. According to Harvard Business School senior lecturer Shikhar Ghosh in 2012, about three-quarters of all venture capital firms fail to return investors' capital. This means investors in VC firms need to accept the possibility that they may lose all of the money they invest into marijuana-based ventures. Personally, I'd suggest keeping to the sidelines until we see changes enacted on Capitol Hill. If marijuana is rescheduled, then it's quite possible marijuana becomes a viable investment opportunity -- but not before. The next billion-dollar iSecret The world's biggest tech company forgot to show you something at its recent event, but a few Wall Street analysts and the Fool didn't miss a beat: There's a small company that's powering their brand-new gadgets and the coming revolution in technology. And we think its stock price has nearly unlimited room to run for early in-the-know investors! To be one of them, just click here. The article Meet the Marijuana Industry's Secret Weapon originally appeared on Fool.com. Copyright 1995 - 2016 The Motley Fool, LLC. All rights reserved. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate Rackspace Hosting Inc. is realigning some of its staff in a move that will reassign about 90 people to more customer-impacting roles and eliminate around 10 positions, the company confirmed Monday. The cloud storage service company tried to tamp down rumors of layoffs that have swirled on social media sites like Reddit, Glassdoor, and thelayoff.com. About 86 out of the 6,500 employed at the companys Windcrest Castle were given the chance to reapply for new positions within Rackspace, said Rob La Gesse, Rackspaces vice president of social strategy. They were not job eliminations, nobody got fired, La Gesse said. We just need to refocus on different technologies ... We just gave some Rackers an opportunity to find a new position within the company. He said most of the new positions would be in roles that were more customer impacting. At the end of the day, I think its like eight to 10 people who may lose their job, La Gesse said. San Antonios largest publicly traded tech company has lost a lot of lustre lately amid competition in the cloud computing market that in 2015 sent share prices plunging 64 percent. Its fourth-quarter earnings, announced Feb. 16, showed profits down 13 percent during the final three months of 2015. RELATED: Rackspace profits tumble 13.2 percent. A mass layoff based on trouble meeting payroll would be bad news for Rackspace on a lot of levels, such as jeopardizing tax incentives, something the company reported as a risk factor in its annual report released Friday. The company got $14 million in state enterprise funds in 2007 as well as tax incentives from the city of Windcrest, city of San Antonio, and Bexar County, all of which are dependent on meeting commitments to employ a certain number of people at certain salaries. It would affect our entire lease at the Castle, La Gesse said. This is nothing like that, absolutely nothing like that. This is a carousel. Use Next and Previous buttons to navigate San Antonio actor Nicholas Gonzalez came home Sunday, starring in his latest role: surrogate for the Bernie Sanders campaign. Gonzalez who has appeared in shows like Resurrection Blvd., Off the Map, Sleepy Hollow and Jane the Virgin, as well as films like Anacondas: The Hunt for the Blood Orchid and The Purge: Anarchy was at the Bexar County Democratic Party Headquarters on Sunday, talking about why hes supporting Sanders. RELATED: 18 places in San Antonio where you might spot a celebrity Theres the perception throughout the nation that people in Texas arent necessarily as progressive, Gonzalez said of his return home to campaign for Sanders. But once you get down to really talking to people about what they care about you realize theyre on the side of this kind of progressiveness, theyre receptive. Sanderss long history of involvement with activism and the civil rights movement was among the factors that drew Gonzalez to the campaign. Its a bit disturbing to me that people have to evolve to the idea that people are equal, Gonzalez said. Gonzalez, 40, acknowledged that San Antonio poses some challenges, noting Hillary Clinton leads most polls among Latino voters. But he said the Sanders campaign focuses on many points that local voters should find compelling, including expanded resources for veterans returning home from overseas and immigration reform centered on a path to citizenship. RELATED: Things you didn't know about Bernie Sanders Asked about the generation gap between Sanders and Clinton supporters, Gonzalez said that many people are disillusioned with politics. I dont blame them, theyve had more years to lose faith in the system, he said. If it hadnt been for Senator Sanders. I dont know if I wouldve been brought back into the fold of politics. I think thats the biggest challenge, is reaching the people who have been relegated to the sidelines for so long and are so used to not having a voice, used to saying, Well thats just the way things go, so Im going to vote for someone who knows that game, he continued. Sanders isnt alone in dispatching surrogates to San Antonio in the run-up to Super Tuesday. Clintons most formidable surrogate, former president Bill Clinton, will appear at San Antonios Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center Theater at 4 p.m. Monday. fioannou@express-news.net Twitter: @obioannoukenobi A LaSalle County jury has acquitted Colt and Levi Ringer of Cotulla in the murder of an oilfield worker whose body was allegedly placed next to the downtown railroad tracks and hit by a train in 2011. The verdict came late Thursday after a four-day trial in Cotulla, a small South Texas town sitting in between Laredo and San Antonio on Interstate 35. Although a prosecution witness who claimed Levi Ringer had bragged about killing Alfredo Guerrero on July 7, 2011, the defense countered with witnesses that placed him in Smithville on the night of the crime. Posted on 02/29/2016, 11:00 am, by mySteinbach The risk of overland flooding is generally minor to moderate as the run-off potential is normal to below normal across the province according to the Hydrologic Forecast Centre of Manitoba Infrastructure and Transportations first 2016 spring flood outlook. The outlook notes the overall flood risk could change depending on weather conditions between now and the spring melt. The flood potential is estimated to be moderate in the northwestern areas and minor to moderate in the rest of the province. The second outlook at the end of March will further define the overall flood potential. Most of the major lakes are near normal levels for this time of the year and the risk for potential flooding is minor under normal weather conditions. Flows and levels in most rivers are near normal for this time of the year. Frost in Soil Mild weather and below-average snow cover has resulted in frost depth near-normal to slightly less than normal throughout most of Manitoba. Generally below normal frost depth means that the soil can absorb more melting water and potentially decrease the amount of overland flooding. Above normal frost depth can contribute to increased run-off. Soil Moisture Conditions at Freeze-up: southern Manitoba including the Red River Valley near-normal to below normal; western Manitoba near normal; Saskatchewan above normal; northern Manitoba including The Pas region above normal; Interlake near normal to above normal and eastern Manitoba above normal. Winter Precipitation Winter precipitation is below to well below normal throughout the central and southern portions of Manitoba and Saskatchewan including the Interlake, Souris River, QuAppelle River, Pembina River and Assiniboine River basins. Winter precipitation is normal to below normal for the Red and Roseau River basins. Winter precipitation has been near-normal for eastern Manitoba including the Whiteshell area, the Saskatchewan River watershed in Saskatchewan and the northern part of the Lake Winnipegosis basin. Localized above normal precipitation has occurred near The Pas. Ice Jams When warmer temperatures arrive and run-off starts, there is a chance of localized flooding due to ice jams or snow blockages in drains, ditches and small streams. Major ice jams are difficult to predict as to location and magnitude, and cannot be ruled out. On most major rivers ice thickness is normal to below normal for this time of the year due to above normal temperatures and lower than normal snow cover to provide insulation and prevent freezing. Ice Jam Mitigation Program with the Ice Cutters and Amphibex Fleet At this time the ice jam mitigation program, using the ice cutters and Amphibex fleet, has already broken a channel approximately 13 km long down the center of the north Red River and work is ongoing. Ice conditions on the Icelandic, Brokenhead and Fisher rivers will be assessed this week to determine if icebreaking would benefit those communities. The chances of minor localized flooding due to snow blockages in drains, ditches and small streams during the early part of the run-off period will depend on the nature of the spring breakup and rate of melt. Future weather outlook The extent of the overall spring flood potential is still very dependent on future weather conditions. Most weather prediction centers predict normal to below normal precipitation and above normal temperatures for most of Manitoba and Saskatchewan for the coming three months. Above normal temperature forecast indicates the potential for an early melt. Run-off The potential for spring run-off is below normal in the lower Assiniboine, Pembina, QuAppelle and Souris river basins. The potential is normal to below normal in the Red River as well as the Interlake region. The potential for spring run-off is near normal in the upper Assiniboine and Roseau river basins and throughout the rest of the province, including the Winnipeg River basin. The potential is normal to above normal in the Saskatchewan River basin. The potential for normal to above normal run-off in the Saskatchewan River basin, including Carrot River, is a result of above normal soil moisture content at freeze-up and normal to above normal snowpack water content. Flood Outlook The extent of spring flood potential is still very dependent on weather until the spring melt. Flood potential is significantly affected by: the amount of additional snow and rain; frost depth at the time of run-off; the timing and rate of the spring thaw; and the timing of peak flows in Manitoba, the U.S. and other provinces. Delayed thaw and spring rainstorms could result in rapid snow melt aggravating overland flooding and increasing tributary flows. A single precipitation event similar to the rainstorm that occurred in the summer of 2014 could change the flood outlook significantly. The provinces practice is to plan and prepare for unfavourable weather conditions, the scenario of highest flood risk. The outlook shows the risk of overland flooding for the unfavourable weather scenario in the following watersheds: Red River minor risk; Pembina River minor risk; Roseau River moderate risk; Assiniboine River moderate risk southwest region minor risk; Interlake region and the Fisher River moderate risk; eastern region and the Winnipeg River moderate; and northern Manitoba/The Pas Regions and Saskatchewan, Carrot and Swan rivers moderate risk. Preparations The Manitoba government and municipalities are continuing to prepare for spring flooding. This includes working with municipal emergency management teams to review existing emergency response plans and sharing information through conference calls and flood information seminars in Morris, Brandon and Selkirk. Provincial flood-fighting equipment includes: six sandbag-making machines; 19,900 super sandbags; 2.2 million regular sandbags; 32.5 km of Hesco cage barriers, into which sand or other heavy material is placed; 69 km of water-filled barriers, of which 35.3 km are in rapid-response trailers; a total of 34 pumps, 17 of which are heavy duty pumps used to move large volumes of flood water and the remainder are part of mobile trailers kits used to fill water barriers; and 61 heavy-duty steamers. Manitoba continues to work with stakeholders across the Assiniboine River basin through the Assiniboine River Basin Initiative. Representatives from the Manitoba government, Keystone Agricultural Producers, the Association of Manitoba Municipalities and Manitoba Conservation Districts Association will join other stakeholders for a meeting next month in Minot, North Dakota. The goal is to discuss options and solutions to common concerns such as drainage, flooding, water quality and drought. Up-to-date flood information can be found at www.gov.mb.ca/flooding or by calling 1-866-626-4862 (toll-free). Last week, an advisory committee to the Commodity Futures Trading Commission produced a highly dubious report recommending that the agency abandon the Dodd-Frank mandate of setting position limits in futures markets to eliminate excessive speculation. The report was just an enhanced form of lobbying; eight of the nine members of the Energy and Environmental Markets Advisory Committee (EEMAC) have ties to industries that would personally benefit from killing the rule. The big question was how an official advisory committee of a federal agency could turn into a purely distilled conduit for corporate talking points? And the answer is Christopher Giancarlo, the lone Republican commissioner on CFTC at the moment, who took advantage of the committee, twisted it to his own ends, and produced a work product destined to be used in future litigation to overturn the position limits rule. This all came out in a meeting of the EEMAC last Thursday, the same day the report was released. Only a few outlets reported on the meeting, and theres no archived video of it yet on the CFTC website; it should pop up at some point. But Tyson Slocum of Public Citizen, the only consumer/public interest voice on the committee and the lone dissenter on the report, gave me the blow-by-blow. Slocum started the discussion in the committee by questioning Craig Pirrong, co-author of the report and a non-member at the time he wrote it (he only became a member afterward). Pirrong has a history of payments from multiple industry groups, including the International Swaps and Derivatives Association, who successfully sued to overturn the first iteration of the position limits rule (that was in 2012; this second version was written in 2013 and still has yet to be finalized). I asked him what were the origins of that report, and how did it come to be that a non-member worked with one of the nine members of the committee without the input of the other eight, Slocum told me in an interview. And Dr. Pirrong said, Mr. Giancarlo asked me to write a report. It took all of seconds of interrogation to have him throw Giancarlo under the bus. Giancarlo immediately interrupted Pirrong, saying he wanted to explain. Over the next few minutes, Giancarlo admitted that he called Pirrong, set the parameters of the report, and told him to have it reflect only what had been discussed in two meetings where practically no non-industry voices were present. Giancarlo added that he sought out Pirrong for the report because of his expertise on the issue, effectively admitting that he was making decisions for the committee. Slocum asked Giancarlo why he wasnt consulted to provide input on what was supposed to be a full committee report. Giancarlo replied that the other members of the committee were very busy, and I didnt want to burden you. You might be asking why Giancarlo, a CFTC commissioner, would play such a powerful role in devising a report that is supposed to be a way for independent voices advise the commission from the outside. Well, a few things came together. First, Dodd-Frank Section 751 created the EEMAC. It clearly had good intentions, as evidenced by the requirement that members reflect a wide diversity of opinion and represent a broad spectrum of interests, including hedgers and consumers. But the bill also explicitly exempted the EEMAC from the Federal Advisory Committee Act. That means there was no outside oversight of the committee membership, or whether eight of the nine members would come from a particular industry. To remedy that, CFTC wrote a charter for the EEMAC. This is the key section: The EEMAC shall have a Sponsor, who may be the Chairman of the Commission, a Commissioner, or a designee of the Commission. The Commission shall appoint and remove the Sponsor of EEMAC. The Sponsors role for this non-FACA committee shall be, among other things, to: (1) approve all meeting agendas; (2) approve or call all EEMAC or subcommittee meetings; (3) attend all EEMAC or subcommittee meetings; (4) adjourn any meeting when he or she determines it to be in the public interest; (5) ensure that recommendations and advice made by Members are provided to the Commission; (6) ensure that the Commission provides the necessary staff and other support for the EEMAC; (7) assist the Commission with identifying Members, Associate Members, and subcommittee members; and (8) otherwise assist the Commission with carrying out its responsibilities regarding the EEMAC. The sponsor, the charter also notes, plays a primary role in selecting members of the committee. You can fill in what happened from there. Giancarlo, a former executive at a derivatives brokerage firm and an on-the-record opponent of position limits, found this Dodd-Frank provision lying around and became the EEMAC sponsor. That allowed him to slot in his industry pals. And he clearly took a very hands-on role in everything the committee does, including telling them when and how to write their reports. This goes well beyond the enumerated role of the sponsor, as seen above. Its a ministerial role, not an active member of the committee. It isnt Giancarlos job to produce the report, or to set the vision for it, or to designate individuals to write it separate from the rest of the committee. Incidentally, when Pirrong and his co-author, longtime ConocoPhillips exec James Allison, finished the report, they didnt submit it to the committee, but to Giancarlo. He passed it onto committee members and told them they had two weeks to vote up or down on it in private. Its important to understand Giancarlos goal for the report. He doesnt think the advisory committee will sway the CFTC to abandon position limits theyve been working on for years. Indeed, CFTC Tim Massad immediately said he would keep moving forward on the rule. The goal here, as Slocum told me, is to give industry a leg up in an inevitable legal battle to come. Giancarlo was setting the table, Slocum said, to use the advisory committee from the beginning, stack it with Wall Street and big energy companies, and produce a report to say position limits are unneeded and would create harm. This report would be exhibit A in the next litigation. The industry, of course, has already won one round in court here, back in 2012. They successfully argued that capping trades as a percentage of the total commodity market was unnecessary. Now, after CFTC finalizes a new version of the rule that tries to answer that judges concerns, the same industry players can go to court again and say Look, even the commissions own advisory committee said this was unnecessary! A federal judge would likely be unaware of the ideological makeup of the committee, the role of the CFTCs industry-backed commissioner in creating the report, the lack of objectivity, etc. Theyd only see the 8-1 vote. Meanwhile, that vote was never public. Slocum made several formal motions at the meeting to move the report back to the EEMAC for further consideration, given that it only employed selective committee resources without the consent of the full committee at the time. The motion was never acknowledged or acted upon. Nor was there ever a public vote to deliver the report to the CFTC; the 8-1 vote only approved the draft. And there are other factors as well; clearly, Giancarlo violated the charter in his sponsorship role. If the report is not validated as the official product of the committee, it cannot be used in court the way Giancarlo and his cronies want. Public Citizen is working to make that happen. The thing is, Giancarlo had already stacked the committee. He could have gone through the normal procedures, engaged Slocum, and outvoted him. Instead he pushed way too far. Its like Nixon didnt need to break into the Watergate, he was going to win in a landslide anyway, Slocum said. Sometimes these guys cant help themselves. Identity theft expert Carrie Kerskie has been thinking about the nature of identity all of her life. Born in Lima, Ohio, and adopted when she was 17 days old, she knows nothing about her birthparents, other than that they were Mennonite college students. "I was always curious about them, until I did a research paper on adoptions in high school," Kerskie, 44, said. "I began to understand that I didn't know what their situation was, or how my contacting them might intrude on their lives. And I began to realize how important it is to respect people's privacy." Helping people protect their privacy from scam artists, fraudsters and identity thieves now is Kerskie's life work. As director of Hodges University's Identity Fraud Institute, she spends her time speaking to businesses and nonprofits about how to keep their customer information safe, as well as helping identity theft victims repair the damage that's done to their credit and wallets. Given the amount of personal and financial information available to criminals, particularly on the Internet, it's a crime that will touch most people at some point in their lives, Kerskie warns. It's also a crime that's expanding rapidly, despite public and private attempts to contain it. The Federal Trade Commission said 490,220 consumers lodged complaints with the agency about identity theft last year, up 47.4 percent from 332,647 in 2014. Because of its affluent, older population, Southwest Florida is a particular target of identity thieves, the agency said. Kerskie's evolution into a stealth warrior against identity theft was circuitous. As a little girl, she was the darling of her adoptive parents, who were part of a Top-40 band that toured all over the country. "I was a roadie until I was 5," Kerskie said with a laugh. She roller-skated on the parquet floors of nightclubs, sang "Jingle Bells" with the band, and developed a taste for fancy restaurant foods such as pickled herring, shrimp cocktail and lobster. But when she got old enough to attend school, her parents settled down and her father became a contractor. When she was 10, her family moved from Ohio to Naples, building houses by day and playing musical gigs at night. Because of her show business roots, Kerskie dreamed of becoming an actor as a young girl and teen. But after graduating from the University of Central Florida in the mid-'90s with a degree in business administration and finance, she wound up a stockbroker instead. It wasn't a good fit. "I never felt comfortable being in charge of other people's life savings," she said. After she married and the first of her two children was born, she became a stay-at-home mom for a while. But soon she became restless and decided to re-enter the workforce. While teaching students at Lorenzo Walker Institute of Technology in Naples, she discovered that a few of them were being taken advantage of by their employers. Some weren't being paid; others were being sexually harassed. Kerskie started researching their cases to help them. "I've always been nosy," she said. Her efforts caught the attention of another student, Victor Marcone, who was a private investigator. He asked her to help on a fraud case that had a financial component. Kerskie began helping Marcone on other cases as well. "The first time I did surveillance, I was so nervous," she recalled. "I did everything wrong." But she soon learned that she had a knack for investigating cases. The necessity of pretending to be other people to get the goods on cheating spouses, deadbeat parents, corporate criminals and insurance fraudsters appealed to her early ambitions to be an actor. "Some of the cases were very usual," she said. "One woman hired us to find out if her husband's mistress was having an affair." But following the trail of other people's most unsavory secrets also exposed her and her family to danger. So after Marcone retired in 2006, she bought his business, renamed it the Kerskie Group, and began transitioning it to concentrate on the growing problem of identity theft. Kerskie became involved with the Collier County Identity Theft Task Force, a consortium of law enforcement and government agencies, as well as banks, schools and nonprofits. There she met Aysegul Timur, dean of the Johnson School of Business at Hodges, and the two came up with the idea of creating an institute dedicated to battling the threat. The Institute debuted in May; since then Kerskie has been deluged with work. She is the Institute's sole warrior against crooks (although lately she's been buttonholing state legislators to get more funding to grow the staff). It's difficult to keep up with ever-evolving criminal schemes, she admitted. While nearly every type of identity theft scam is perpetrated here, from taking over dead people's Social Security numbers to opening credit cards in children's names, Kerskie said the latest trick involves people's phone numbers. "Credit card companies are now calling customers if they see something suspicious happening on their accounts," Kerskie explained. "So criminals pretend to be the customer, call the credit card companies and have the victim's phone numbers transferred over to them." In a different gambit, sometimes a criminal will call a credit card company pretending to be a customer and ask for a new card to be issued via Federal Express. Then the thief sets up an account in the victim's name on the Fed X site and requests to have the package held for pickup. The new card is issued, and the criminal has it in hand, without the customer ever being the wiser. Consumers can do a lot to protect themselves by not giving out personal or financial information unless absolutely necessary; being wary of free offers; taking charge of their online tax, banking and government accounts; and guarding their identification, credit cards, checkbooks and cellphones, both at home and in public. "Education is the key," Kerskie said. "The more you know, the less likely you are to become a victim." Tim Aten In The Know SHARE Exterior renderings for the Publix supermarket to anchor the future Neighborhood Shoppes at Orangetree on the corner of Immokalee Road and Randall Boulevard in Golden Gate Estates. Q: Any news on the Estates Publix at Immokalee and Randall? It has been my understanding that the store has to be completed by mid-November or it is a "no go" for the year. Rick Litton, Golden Gate Estates Q: Just wanted to see if you are doing anymore follow-ups regarding our Publix on Randall Boulevard. As you know, this is the biggest news out here and many of my neighbors are anxious, to say the least, to see this come to fruition. Please follow up on this. Is it permitted? Any idea when development can begin? This Publix will be our symbol that we are on the map and we are no longer the Third World. Jorge, Golden Gate Estates A: Construction of the new Publix is expected to begin as early as this week on the corner of Immokalee Road and Randall Boulevard in Golden Gate Estates. Collier County approved the project's site development plan Jan. 14, and county commissioners approved the building permit last Tuesday for the 46,031-square-foot Publix supermarket at 13550 Immokalee Road. Hawkins Construction Inc., based in Tarpon Springs in Pinellas County, will be the contractor for the commercial job, valued at more than $4.5 million, the building permit shows. Although Publix will not comment on the project, the Lakeland-based supermarket chain is purchasing a 6.6-acre vacant parcel from Orangetree Associates, the developer of the Orangetree communities, which includes the adjacent Valencia Lakes gated residential community. "We're all but closed for the site. Conservatively, sometime next week, the deed will be recorded," Orangetree Associates principal Steve Lowitz said Friday afternoon. "We signed everything on our end. We are all but done, and the closing will be very, very shortly. They want to start their site work immediately." The store's construction is expected to take about nine months with an opening targeted for November. "They want to be open before Thanksgiving," said Paul Unsworth, board president of Valencia Lakes' homeowners association. In addition to the supermarket, the project includes three small retail stores attached to the western end of Publix, the rear of which will abut Randall Boulevard. These stores will be part of the 10-acre Neighborhood Shoppes at Orangetree. The triangular retail center also will include a 2-acre vacant tract on the hard corner that CVS pharmacy has owned for more than five years. Another acre or so on the northernmost point of the triangle was set to be a bank at one time, but its future use has not been announced. An 8-foot-high precast concrete wall will separate the shopping center from Valencia Lakes, but a private gate will allow residents to enter and exit the development. A temporary chain-link fence with a construction screen will be erected soon, and construction equipment and material will be confined to a staging area on the western edge of the center's property to minimize impact on the neighborhood, Unsworth said. Know more Have a local question? Email it with your name and city of residence to intheknow@naplesnews.com. Tim Aten's "In the Know" is published every Monday and Wednesday. Like In the Know on Facebook now at facebook.com/timaten.intheknow. SHARE I was going to write about how the Republican presidential campaign has become gutter politics, but given Donald Trump's horrid statements, the gutter would be a step up, because things have descended into the sewer. Never in modern times has there been a presidential candidate who has hurled more personal insults and hurtful accusations at his fellow candidates and others who disagree with him. It should embarrass a normal person, but Trump appears beyond embarrassment. He criticizes Vicente Fox, the former president of Mexico, for dropping the F-bomb when he did the same thing during the New Hampshire primary campaign. He attacks Marco Rubio for repeating himself when Trump repeats himself repeatedly. He has criticized the personal appearance of Carly Fiorina, Rosie O'Donnell and Arianna Huffington, among others, when he isn't much to look at. He tosses out words like "loser," and during the Houston debate responded to a question from radio talk-show host Hugh Hewitt by saying no one listens to his program and his ratings are lousy. The country is not served by such language. Neither does the political debate format serve the public when it resembles a cage match rather than a serious discussion about the multiple challenges facing America. There must be a better way to elect a president than this. "Bully backs blowhard for president" was the headline on The Daily Beast, referring to New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie's endorsement of Trump. What continues to amaze is the strong backing of Trump by so many evangelicals. If their church members behaved as Trump does, they would receive a serious talking to by the deacons or pastor and if they didn't repent and change their ways they might face expulsion. With Trump, most evangelical leaders have remained largely silent, offering neither criticism nor praise. This is what can happen when some pastors who are called to a different kingdom and a different king settle for an earthly kingdom and lesser king. Does anyone know what Trump's position is on anything? Do they care? Apparently not from the sycophants who cheer his every insult at packed rallies around the country. He belittles, he whines and he complains that some in the media don't treat him "fairly" when he has been on TV more than all of the other candidates combined. The reason for all the coverage he receives? He gets big ratings and the networks live for ratings. One of the few evangelical leaders to take Trump on is San Antonio pastor and best-selling author Max Lucado. In a recent blog post, Lucado says Trump's "antics" "wouldn't even be acceptable ... for a middle-school student body election." In an interview with Christianity Today, Lucado was asked why he published his post, which he titled "Decency for President." While saying he doesn't bring politics into his church, he said he felt the need to speak out because of Trump's "derision of people," adding, "It would be none of my business, I would have absolutely no right to speak up except that he repeatedly brandishes the Bible and calls himself a Christian." "If he's going to call himself a Christian one day and call someone a bimbo the next or make fun of somebody's menstrual cycle, it's just beyond reason to me." Beyond reason best describes the Trump campaign. It also explains the fealty so many have for a man with whom one hopes they have nothing in common from his lifestyle, to his indecipherable politics, to his fact-challenged pronouncements. In past elections some voters have complained about being forced to choose between the lesser of two evils. If the nominee for the Democratic Party is Hillary Clinton, and if Republicans select Donald Trump, this election may force voters to choose between the least evil of two lessers.

Those who study such things claim that Napoleon Bonaparte was afraid of cats.

SHARE By Samantha Weaver It was American author and critic H.L. Mencken who made the following sage observation: Every normal man must be tempted at times to spit upon his hands, hoist the black flag and begin slitting throats. The condor is the largest flying land bird in the Western Hemisphere and one of the slowest in reproducing. The female lays only one egg every two years. Those who study such things claim that Napoleon Bonaparte was afraid of cats. Confectioner Milton Hershey suffered through founding two candy companies that ended in failure, then succeeded on his third attempt, and finally sold that company and used the proceeds to found the Hershey Company. After all his hard work, though, he seemed to be less interested in enjoying the fruits of his labors than in helping others. In 1909 he established the Hershey Industrial School for Orphaned Boys, and 10 years later he donated control of the company to a trust for the school. Today the institution is called the Milton Hershey School, and it continues to have a controlling interest in the candy company. Dont consider yourself uneducated if youve never heard of anthropodermic bibliopegy; the practice of binding books with human skin is not (one can hope) common in modern times. Scotsman John Paul Jones is best known for his naval exploits for the nascent United States during the Revolutionary War, and for his infamous utterance, We have not yet begun to fight! Most people dont realize, though, that he was born John Paul and only adopted the surname Jones on his first trip to America, where he came to flee charges in the deaths of two sailors under his command. Thought for the Day Make everything as simple as possible, but not simpler. Albert Einstein By NBC2 Jimmy Ray Rodgers, one of the men accused of killing Dr. Teresa Sievers in Bonita Springs has been transferred from the Lee County jail to the Collier County jail, NBC2 reports. Rodgers was released from the Lee County Jail at 5:37 p.m. on Friday, according to arrest records on the Lee County Sheriff's Office website. A Lee County judge on Wednesday decided Rodgers will be held without bond on homicide charges in the June killing of Sievers. The 25-year-old Missouri man is one of two arrested in the crime. Both are accused of traveling across the country to kill Sievers in her home as she returned from a family vacation alone. Given that he violated federal probation to commit the crime, a state prosecutor argued he should be held without bond. Theres really no court order which would constrain Mr. Rogers to the jurisdictional boundaries of the state of Florida, Assistant State Attorney Hamid Hunter said. Rogers was the first to appear during the hearing. In a green jumpsuit, he was escorted by two jail deputies and appeared over closed-circuit court television. Lee County Judge James Adams said Rodgers will be held without bond. He faces as much as life in prison on the first-degree felony charge. Rodgers will be assigned a public defender. Rodgers was extradited from Illinois Monday where he was serving a six-month federal prison sentence for violating his probation by traveling to Florida, allegedly for the killing. His accomplice, Curtis Wayne Wright Jr., also is in jail in Lee County awaiting trial. Naples Mayor John Sorey during a trip to china. (Submitted photo) By Joseph Cranney of the Naples Daily News Naples Mayor John Sorey keeps the photo in his office. It shows Sorey and Yuan Yukui, a Chinese investor, smiling and squinting into the glare of a sunny afternoon in the Fuijan province across the water from Taiwan. They're locking hands in front of the Fuijan Tulou, a property of several dozen Chinese buildings made from mud walls and tiled roofs. The photo was dated and signed by Yukui with the message, written in Chinese, "Friendship is everlasting." The photo is just about the only record Sorey says he has from the eight-day trip to China in January 2015, even though the trip cost city taxpayers $4,228. By all accounts, the mayor taking an international trip on the taxpayer's expense was an unusual event. But the trip also stands out because Sorey doesn't have any receipts for what he charged taxpayers for his time in China. When asked, Sorey couldn't produce a receipt for his two-night hotel stay in Beijing, for which the city paid $150 per night; his six-night hotel stay in Xiamen, for which the city paid $125 per night; the bullet train Sorey took from Beijing to Xiamen, for which the city paid $236; airfare from Xiamen to Shanghai, for which the city paid $150; or his unitemized "service to facilitate business activity" expenses, for which the city paid $840. And Sorey received city per diem payments for meals but said he doesn't remember paying for dining while there, only offering "some money" to organizers to cover food. Sorey's international plane ticket, which cost $1,347 to fly economy on United Airlines, is the only receipt included in the travel report he filed with the city. That's a striking contrast from other travel reports filed by Sorey and members of the City Council. Travel reports typically include itineraries and detailed hotel receipts. City Manager Bill Moss agreed to pay for the China trip up front. About a week before Sorey left, the city wrote a $3,848 check to Jin Huzhi, head of the Chinese company that helped arrange the trip. The amount was based on a one-page invoice Huzhi sent to the city that included vague items like "Hotel in Beijing" and $840 spent on "service to facilitate business activity." Sorey, a former CEO, provided no documentation to the city to confirm those costs, but the finance department gave the trip final approval anyway on Jan. 12, 2015, the day after Sorey returned. "We paid for the package in advance and there is no receipt," Moss said. "What are we supposed to ask for?" Moss and Finance Director Ann Marie Ricardi said the city agrees to pay up front for package travel deals in unusual cases but couldn't produce a record of another case. City employees are required to produce a detailed hotel receipt for travel reimbursement. But Ricardi said Sorey wasn't required to include hotel receipts because he wasn't personally reimbursed for the hotels. The Naples Daily News asked Sorey last week to call the hotels in China he stayed in to obtain receipts. Sorey stayed at the New World Hotel in Beijing and the Kun City Resort & Spa in Xiamen. Both are listed as five-star hotels on their websites. "We couldn't talk to them," Sorey said. "There was nobody that spoke English at any of the hotels." Efforts by the Daily News to reach the hotels by phone and email failed. The city paid Sorey $350 on Dec. 29, 2014, to cover Sorey's meals in China. Before he left, Sorey submitted a payment request based on the city's standard per diem rates with maximum allowances of $5 for breakfast, $11 for lunch and $19 for dinner. However, Sorey said most of the meals in China were handled by the trip arrangers. When asked if he was reimbursed for meals he didn't pay for, Sorey said, "With a few exceptions the airport. I don't remember because we were always with a group. I don't remember paying for meals." Sorey later said, "Now, really thinking about it, there were times where we gave some money to do whatever. There were times that we did a taxi kind of a thing, but that was all cash kind of a situation." Ahead of the trip, the city paid $240 for "ground transportation, site visits, arrange meetings etc." in Beijing, according to invoices. The city paid another $600 for similar activity in Xiamen. Sorey didn't have receipts for those expenses, so it's not clear exactly what taxpayers bought for $840. The trip also came and went seemingly without any public vetting. Members of the City Council said they should have been informed about the trip ahead of time, even though the rules don't require it. "For such a trip to not be discussed officially, beforehand and then no post-trip report to be offered, seems a bit underhanded," City Councilman Doug Finlay said. In explaining the trip's purpose, Sorey, who is running for re-election as mayor, said Naples has an interest in drawing international visitors and working with Yukui, whom Sorey described as a proven investor. Sorey said he has turned down offers for visits to other international cities in France and Italy. But in this case, the potential economic impact was worth the cost. "I think you need a mayor who's an activist mayor and involved," Sorey said. "You do things in business based on the long term." The three other trips Sorey took in 2015 all were hosted in Orlando. The three trips also had a combined cost of about $2,000. City Council member Teresa Heitmann, who is running for mayor, took one trip last year to Washington, D.C., for three days as part of the Florida League of Cities. The trip cost $1,293, including $777 in lodging and $400 in airfare. Heitmann's travel report includes detailed receipts for her hotel, travel and conference registration. City Council member Bill Barnett, who also is running for mayor, hasn't taken any trips for the past five years, according to the city. The finance department said Barnett took just two trips during his tenure as mayor from 2004 to 2012, to Tallahassee and Tampa Bay, but the city no longer has the expense documents from those trips. Barnett said Sorey should have given a public presentation on the China trip. "I don't know of any mayor that ever took a trip at the city's expense without sharing," Barnett said. Sorey met Yukui through Clarence Tears, a local consultant who worked in China. In July 2014, Sorey led Yukui on a walking tour of downtown Naples, where Sorey showed properties and introduced Yukui to local hoteliers. Sorey declined to name the hoteliers. Yukui, a large property owner in China, was interested in opening a downtown hotel and a restaurant on Fifth Avenue South, Sorey said. Details on Yukui's business life are hard to come by, but an article in the China Times published Dec. 25, 2015, said the firm Yukui chairs, the Kun Xiamen City Group, deals in real estate development, tourism, engineering consultation, biotechnology and media. The 800-employee firm has developed more than a million square meters of real estate and pumped hundreds of millions in Chinese taxes into the government's coffers, according to the article. But before Yukui did business here, it was customary for Sorey to reciprocate with a visit to China, Sorey said. "He'll never do anything in Naples until you come over there," Sorey said. "I don't know much about Chinese business, but that's the perception." Sorey flew out of Fort Myers on 7:50 a.m. on Friday, Jan. 2, 2015. He had a connecting flight in Chicago and landed in Beijing on Jan. 3 around 3:30 p.m. Sorey was accompanied by Tears and Amanda Erwin, a Naples saleswoman from Keating Associates Real Estate Professionals. Sorey was also accompanied by Mark Morton, a trustee for the Florida Chamber of Commerce and head of strategic real estate and business development for U.S. Sugar. On Jan. 4 in Beijing, Sorey distributed Naples tourism materials to the chief executives of the China Women Travel Service, an international travel agency that focuses on high-end customers. On Jan. 7 in Xiamen, Sorey met with the government of the Huli District in Xiamen and invited the Huli government to encourage people to invest in Naples. In one meeting, Erwin presented a portfolio of Naples' high-value commercial real estate, she said. Eight selected properties included three addresses on Fifth Avenue and had a total estimated value of more than $100 million. The properties were off-market, but they could have been sold to Chinese investors if the price was right, Erwin said. No Chinese deals have been made on those properties, but Erwin said the investors, although initially hesitant about costs, are still interested. "When they saw the prices, they were a little shocked," Erwin said. "They just want a property that makes money. They're still actively looking." Yukui hasn't returned to Naples since his meeting with Sorey in 2014 but is said to still be interested in investing downtown. Sorey said holdups have been caused by a downturn in the Chinese economy. Mark Sievers listens to proceedings during a custody hearing in a Lee County courtroom on Monday, Feb. 29, 2016, in downtown Fort Myers. Sievers' children will remain in the care of non-relatives in Collier County and will only have contact with their father by phone following the hearing Monday with child welfare officials. (David Albers/Staff) By Kristine Gill of the Naples Daily News Mark Sievers will be allowed to contact his daughters by phone following a hearing with the Florida Department of Children and Families regarding custody of the girls. Eleven-year-old Josephine and 9-year-old Carmi Sievers have been in the care of someone in Collier County who is not a relative of the family since Friday. A Lee County judge said Monday thats where the girls will stay as the state works out a more permanent solution. At the heart of the matter is parental judgment and decision making and at this point the court must intervene, said Lee County Circuit Judge Lee Schreiber. Family members from both sides have volunteered to care for the girls. including Mark Sievers brother, who lives out of state, and Teresa Sievers mother, who is planning to move from Connecticut to Southwest Florida, DCF officials said. Kristin Allain, of Childrens Legal Services, said Sievers mother Bonnie Sievers was part of an arrangement Sievers made for his daughters care. Allain said the agency did not think Bonnie Sievers should provide care without further investigation, but said they did want her to maintain visitation with the children. We are working to resolve that issue, Allain said. Schreiber excused the girls from Mondays hearing while she talked with officials about a long-term solution, and what should happen in the event that Sievers posts bond. An attorney for Sievers, who qualifies for indigency and was appointed an attorney in his case, said Sievers has not lost his parental rights. Sievers did not speak in length at the hearing but frowned when officials said his mother was not a suitable candidate for custody and when the issue of getting counseling for his children counseling came up. DCF officials said the girls have been home-schooled with a tutor but that their current caregivers work full-time and cannot accommodated a tutor at home. DCF officials are looking to enroll the girls in public schools but they have not been vaccinated. Following the hearing, Sievers mother declined to comment. Teresa Sievers sister Annie Lisa spoke briefly with the media, saying she is grateful for the outpouring of support and is focusing on staying patient as the process plays out. We just ask that everybody keeps everybody in these circumstances right now in their prayers, she said. Sievers will be arraigned March 28 at 8:30 a.m. in front of Lee County Circuit Judge Ramiro Manalich. An arrest warrant for Sievers had few details other than to say he was arrested on second-degree murder charges in the case of Teresa Sievers by bludgeoning her or inflicting severe blunt force trauma. Curtis Wayne Wright Jr. pleaded guilty to the same charge and accepted a 25-year plea agreement in exchange for providing information to prosecutors. His accused accomplice, Jimmy Ray Rodgers, was transferred from the Lee County Jail to the Collier County Jail Friday. Officials with the Lee County Sheriffs Office would not say why. RELATED STORIES: SHARE Jayne Klinker, Bonita Springs Mayor for Bonita It's that time of year when we have to make decisions on who to cast our ballot for. As a schoolteacher for Lee County for 31 years, I tend to vote for the candidate based on his or her support of education and student/teacher issues. With the upcoming election for mayor of Bonita Springs, I want to share some "behind the political scenes" about Steve McIntosh. He has been investing his time with the students in this area long before any political aspirations. He believes in the potential of the students and wants them to become good citizens in our community by serving and giving back to the community. As the Rotary sponsor at Estero High School for the Interact Club (service club) since its inception, he attends weekly club meetings. He was instrumental in starting Government Day, having students shadow our leaders to see the workings of the local government. His latest endeavor, the Leadership Academy, enables students at EHS to meet the area leaders in education, medical, tourism, industry and government positions, giving them a better understanding of the opportunities here in our community. He has worked with EHS club members to distribute personalized books to the elementary schools, delivered dictionaries to every local third-grader, and supported the students' numerous "unglamorous" service projects like washing cars to raise money at a Saturday morning car wash and cleaning up trash on beautification days. He participates in the service projects he is the students' biggest supporter/cheerleader. Vote for the candidate who supports the future of our community our students. Vote for Steve McIntosh. Above Board Chamber of Florida is pleased to present Advertising Strategies Where Should You Spend Your Money? from 11:30 a.m. 1 p.m. on Thursday, March 10 at Harborside Event Center, 1375 Monroe Street in Fort Myers and on Monday, March 14 at the Hilton Naples, 5111 Tamiami Trail N. in Naples. Reservations are required at www.aboveboardchamber.com. When it comes to allocating your advertising dollars your organization has more choices than ever before. From Facebook to Google Ad Words, digital, broadcast and print where do you begin, how do you develop a sustainable budget and get the most bang for your buck? Join the Above Board Chamber at its March meeting and gain cutting-edge information from the Southwest Florida experts to help you tailor a sensible strategy and get results. The Fort Myers meeting will feature a panel including Amy Parrish, Digital Media Sales Manager at NBC2 and ABC7; Connie Ramos-Williams, CEO and Chief Marketing Officer for CONRIC PR & Marketing and President of CONRIC Publishing; Chris Spiro, CEO and Creative Director of Spiro & Associates; and Vince Modarelli, Advertising Sales Manager for South Lee / Collier The News-Press Media Group. The Naples meeting will feature a panel including Shelley Hobbs, Naples Publisher for Florida Weekly; Rob Wardlaw, Associate Publisher at Gulfshore Business; Connie Ramos-Williams, CEO and Chief Marketing Officer for CONRIC PR & Marketing and President of CONRIC Publishing; and Javier Fuller, Chief Engineer at Fuller Online Solutions. Both meetings will be emceed by Ingrid Fuller of Fuller Online Solutions. The Fort Myers meeting will be sponsored by Midwest Food Bank Florida Division. The Naples meeting will be sponsored by Genesis Day Spa and Wellness in Naples with Pamela Campbell. Annual sponsors for the Above Board Chamber of Florida are CONRIC PR & Marketing and Fuller Online Solutions. Fort Myers lunch registration Registration on or before Thursday, March 3 will be $25 for members, $30 for guests. After March 3, registration will be $30 for members, $33 for guests. Naples lunch registration Registration on or before Thursday, March 10 will be $25 for members, $28 for guests. After March 10, registration will be $28 for members, $33 for guests. Non-members are encouraged to attend two meetings, then consider joining us to be part of the Above Board Chamber of Florida. To become a member of the Above Board Chamber, contact Jeanne Sweeney at 239-910-7426. The Above Board Chamber of Florida is dedicated to bringing people of all faiths together within the community, in the workplace and amongst one another. Their mission is to supply members with the tools that will allow them to take every aspect of their lives Above Board. For more information on the event or on how to become a member of the Above Board Chamber, contact Jeanne Sweeney at 239-910-7426 or visit www.aboveboardchamber.com. Dimont, based in Dallas, has partnered with Phoenix ABS to access the New York firm's technology platform. The partnership allows Dimont to file and adjust hazard claims for Phoenix ABS customers, plus assist property preservation companies wanting to access its tools. One tool is a machine-learning-based automated valuation model that helps investors in securities and whole loans to understand collateral, loan and portfolio value. Dimont is a provider of specialty insurance and loan administration services to residential and commercial financial industries. Phoenix ABS, whose technologies include property analytics for mortgage companies and banks, integrates values and diligence tools for the assets on which Dimont files hazard insurance claims, including survey information, property preservation photos and maps. "Phoenix and Dimont are natural compliments for mortgage investors," Guhan Kandasamy, head of product at Phoenix ABS, said in a press release Friday. "Both unlock hidden value from different parts of the same portfolio." Denis Brosnan, president and CEO of Dimont, said of the partnership in a separate release, "We are looking forward to accessing this innovative technology platform to better service the residential and commercial mortgage industries." NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg welcomed closer cooperation between the Alliance and Kuwait during his first official visit to Kuwait on 29 February 2016. Speaking at the site of the future NATO-Kuwait Istanbul Cooperation Initiative (ICI) Regional Centre, Mr. Stoltenberg praised Kuwaits commitment and vision in bringing NATO closer to the Gulf region. As the Alliances first presence in the Gulf, the NATO-ICI Regional Centre will be a hub for NATOs practical cooperation with Kuwait and other ICI partners, as well as Saudi Arabia and Oman. Today, we are taking our partnership to the next level said the Secretary General. The NATO-ICI Centre will foster cooperation between NATO and Gulf partners in a number of areas, including strategic analysis, civil emergency planning, military-to-military cooperation and public diplomacy. It will also serve as a link between NATO and the Gulf region, to share expertise and improve understanding. During his visit, Mr. Stoltenberg underlined that the security of the Gulf region is directly linked to the security of the Alliance. He praised Kuwaits active role in promoting regional stability and supporting the international coalitions fight against ISIL. The Secretary General also commended Kuwaits leadership in responding to humanitarian emergencies, such as the Syrian refugee crisis. In a dangerous world, NATO and Kuwait share the same objective: to safeguard peace. So it is important that we cooperate even more closely in the years ahead, said Mr. Stoltenberg. As part of NATOs deepening cooperation with Kuwait, the Secretary General signed a NATO-Kuwait Transit Agreement with First Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs, Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Sabah. This agreement, NATO's first in the Gulf region, allows the movement of NATO personnel and military equipment through Kuwait. This will enable improved logistical support for NATOs Resolute Support mission in Afghanistan and for other missions in the future, contributing to international security. While in Kuwait, the Secretary General also met with the Emir of the State of Kuwait, His Highness Sheikh Sabah Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, the Prime Minister, His Excellency Sheikh Jaber Mubarak Al-Hamad Al-Sabah and the President of the Kuwait National Security Bureau, His Excellency Sheikh Thamer Ali Al-Sabah. (As prepared) Ladies and gentlemen, I am delighted to be here with you in Kuwait. This is my first visit to your country as NATO Secretary General. Kuwait has long been a strong and committed partner for NATO. Playing a crucial role in promoting political dialogue and practical cooperation between NATO and Gulf countries. In 2004, Kuwait became the first country to join the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative, the ICI. It was the first country in the region to host meetings of Gulf countries and the North Atlantic Council. It was the first ICI country to sign an information security agreement with NATO, to facilitate the exchange of sensitive information. And it was the first to agree an Individual Partnership and Cooperation Programme with NATO, tailoring our cooperation to the specific needs of your country. Today, our countries face many challenges. Challenges from failed and failing states across the wider Middle East. From extremism and terrorism. And from the proliferation of ballistic missile technology and weapons of mass destruction. Kuwait has shown leadership in promoting regional security, playing an important role in the fight against ISIL as part of the Global Coalition. It has also shown compassion through its humanitarian work to alleviate the refugee crisis. The security of Kuwait and of the other Istanbul Cooperation Initiative countries is of key strategic importance to NATO. In this climate of instability, it is essential that we work together in partnership. To find common solutions to common challenges. For together, we are stronger. Kuwaits long history of partnership with NATO, and its strategic location in the Gulf, make it the ideal partner for NATO as we tackle common security challenges. Including the threat posed by ISIL. That is why this NATO-Kuwait Transit Agreement that we have just signed is so important. It is yet another example in our cooperation. This agreement will greatly facilitate the transit of personnel, supplies and equipment to our Resolute Support Mission in Afghanistan. It will also make any future NATO activities in the region significantly more effective. This is the first such agreement that NATO has signed in the Gulf region. I thank Kuwait. And I hope it will lead to similar agreements with other nations in the region. Later today, I will visit the site of the first NATO-ICI Regional Centre. When complete, it will be a focal point for NATOs cooperation with Kuwait and the other countries of the ICI. As well as others in the Gulf, such as Saudi Arabia and Oman, and with the Gulf Cooperation Council. This center is another concrete sign of the maturity reached in our cooperation under the Istanbul Cooperation Initiative. Ladies and gentlemen, Our nations share the same challenges. We face the same threats. And we share the same desire for peace and security. So on behalf of the NATO Alliance, I would like to thank the Government of Kuwait for their strong and enduring support. And for signing this agreement today. Thank you. Take ACTION (NaturalNews) In the latest insult to scientific transparency and food consumers everywhere, the U.S. Congress is pushing hard to pass the DARK Act that would outlaw all mandatory GMO labeling nationwide.This act of outrageous food secrecy is being pushed by Monsanto and the evil biotech industry. It's the latest desperate attempt to keep consumers in the dark about all the poisonous GMOs and glyphosate they're eating. When the voters keep demanding labeling laws -- and passing them! -- the poison-pushing industry's weapon of last resort is toRemember: These industry operators are the same "corporate science" cretins who also lobbied for the tobacco industry and who now promote chemical pesticides and herbicides. They've mastered the sinister art of making money poisoning the population (while hijacking the so-called "science" by paying off academic prostitute scientists like Kevin Folta and Henry Miller ).The DARK Act is a malicious, nefarious law that is intentionally designed to blind consumers from the truth and make sure they keep buying and eating poisons that generate profits for Big Biotech. Any U.S. lawmaker who supports this act deserves to be permanently voted out of office.If this DARK Act becomes law, it will thrust America into athat leaves consumers blind about what they're eating. A vote is going to happen very soon, as the Vermont labeling law kicks in this summer, and the corrupt U.S. Congress is desperate to stop it with the DARK Act The food industry is already accelerating toward more food transparency, and the evil biotech industry wants to stop this trend as quickly as possible. Campbell's recently announced GMO labeling across its entire product line and even declared it would stop financially supporting anti-GMO labeling groups . If Campbell's can label the GMOs in its products, any food manufacturer can do the same!CALL YOUR SENATORS NOW via the U.S. capitol switchboard: (202) 224- 3121.Tell them you oppose the DARK Act and that you support GMO labeling! Click here for my full podcast on this subject . Or listen below: In France, supermarkets will now be required to donate unsold food to food banks (NaturalNews) Over 7 million tons of food are thrown out each year in the United Kingdom alone. For just a moment, imagine London's Wembley stadium being filled to the brink with food, overflowing with meats and cheeses, fruits and vegetables. The amount of food wasted yearly in the U.K. could fill this stadium nine times over! This is perfectly good food that could have been shared with the homeless and the hungry, the downtrodden and the poor The problem of food waste is even more severe on a worldwide scale. Every year, 1.3 billion tons of food is wasted throughout the world. There is more than enough food being produced right now to end world hunger, but large volumes of good food are falling through the cracks of our food distribution systems. Many laws and health department regulations restrict supermarkets and manufacturers from sharing their unsold food products with the hungry because of food safety concerns.Most supermarkets and restaurants insist on throwing food in the dumpster instead of donating it, because owners fear they will be held liable if the food sickens someone. In some places, food that is thrown out can be written off as a business loss, or tax break. Instead of giving credit for food waste, policies could be implemented to encourage supermarkets to drastically reduce the price of foods that are going out of date or about to spoil.In France, 15% of food waste comes from restaurants, 11% from shops, and a staggering 67% is wasted by consumers. Some foods do spoil before they can be eaten, but the bigger problem that needs to be addressed is the spoiled mindset of consumers who now expect food to look perfect and be readily available at their beck and call. Tons of food are wasted because customers and merchants don't like or approve of the way the food looks. Supermarkets reject food that doesn't meet customer demand and appetites. So much is thrown away based on appearance alone.Soon, the food banks of France will be overflowing with various kinds of food that was once thrown out and left to spoil. A grassroots campaign in France seeks to keep unsold food out of the dumpster, putting it in the hands of the needy. Going forward, large French supermarkets measuring greater than 400 square meters (approx. 4,300 square feet), will now be required to donate unsold food items to food banks. Food banks will then be tasked with giving the food out to those in need, in a dignified manner.Food that is approaching its best-before date will no longer be thrown out. Store management will be required to sign donation contracts with charities to make better use of unsold product. If they don't, they could face big fines and up to two years imprisonment. This brilliant move will boost supermarket donations by 15%, and help the food banks supply an additional 10 million meals to hungry people each year.Additionally, supermarkets will no longer be allowed to deliberately spoil food to keep people out of their bins. The law also makes it easier for manufacturers of food products to donate their excess directly to charities. In the past, excess supermarket brand name products had to go through a complicated process to be donated. Now the excess products can be donated directly.The campaign was started by Arash Derambarsh, a municipal councilor for Courbevoie. He says, "The next step is to ask the president, Francois Hollande, to put pressure on Jean-Claude Juncker and to extend this law to the whole of the EU. This battle is only just beginning. We now have to fight food waste in restaurants, bakeries, school canteens and company canteens."Jacques Bailet, who is in charge of several French food banks, says that the law is, "positive and very important symbolically. ... Most importantly, because supermarkets will be obliged to sign a donation deal with charities, we'll be able to increase the quality and diversity of food we get and distribute," he adds. "In terms of nutritional balance, we currently have a deficit of meat and a lack of fruit and vegetables . This will hopefully allow us to push for those products." (NaturalNews) The American College of Pediatricians has raised new concerns about Gardasil, Merck's human papillomavirus vaccine, in a January 27, 2016, press release."It has recently come to the attention of the College that one of the recommended vaccines [HPV] could possibly be associated with the very rare but serious condition of premature ovarian failure (POF), also known as premature menopause," the release states."The College is posting this statement so that individuals considering the use of human papillomavirus vaccines could be made aware of these concerns pending further action by the regulatory agencies and manufacturers," the authors wrote.They noted that legitimate concerns that should be addressed include that "long-term ovarian function was not assessed in either the original rat safety studies" or "in the human vaccine trials," and "most primary care physicians are probably unaware of a possible association between HPV4 and POF and may not consider reporting POF cases or prolonged amenorrhea (missing menstrual periods) to the Vaccine Adverse Event Reporting System (VAERS)."They reported that "potential mechanisms of action have been postulated based on autoimmune associations with the aluminum adjuvant used," and "previously documented ovarian toxicity in rats from another component, polysorbate 80."Since licensure of Gardasil in 2006, they state, "there have been about 213 VAERS reports (per the publicly available CDC WONDER VAERS database) involving amenorrhea, POF or premature menopause, 88% of which have been associated with Gardasil."In comparison, the release notes, the "two-strain HPV2,, was licensed late in 2009 and accounts for 4.7 % of VAERS amenorrhea reports since 2006, and 8.5% of those reports from February 2010 through May 2015.""This compares to the pre-HPV vaccine period from 1990 to 2006," they state, "during which no cases of POF or premature menopause and 32 cases of amenorrhea were reported to VAERS.""Many adolescent females are vaccinated with influenza, meningococcal, and tetanus vaccines," the release explains, "and yet only 5.6% of reports related to ovarian dysfunction since 2006 are associated with such vaccines in the absence of simultaneous Gardasil administration.""The overwhelming majority (76%) of VAERS reports since 2006 with ovarian failure, premature menopause, and/or amenorrhea are associated solely with Gardasil," the College reports."Few other vaccines besides Gardasil that are administered in adolescence contain polysorbate 80.6," they point out."Pre-licensure safety trials for Gardasil used placebo that contained polysorbate 80 as well as aluminum adjuvant," they explain. "Therefore, if such ingredients could cause ovarian dysfunction, an increase in amenorrhea probably would not have been detected in the placebo controlled trials."Also, "a large number of girls in the original trials were taking hormonal contraceptives which can mask ovarian dysfunction including amenorrhea and ovarian failure," the College reports. "Thus a causal relationship between human papillomavirus vaccines (if not Gardasil specifically) and ovarian dysfunction cannot be ruled out at this time."The release explains,"There have been two case report series (3 cases each) published since 2013 in which post-menarcheal adolescent girls developed laboratory documented POF within weeks to several years of receiving Gardasil."In the 2013 study cited, "Human papilloma virus vaccine and primary ovarian failure: another facet of the autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants," the problem listed was "Post-vaccination autoimmune phenomena are a major facet of the autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants (ASIA) and different vaccines, including HPV , have been identified as possible causes.""The medical history of three young women who presented with secondary amenorrhea following HPV vaccination was collected," the study authors reported."All three patients developed secondary amenorrhea following HPV vaccinations, which did not resolve upon treatment with hormone replacement therapies," they noted. "In all three cases sexual development was normal and genetic screen revealed no pertinent abnormalities.""All three patients experienced a range of common non-specific post-vaccine symptoms including nausea, headache, sleep disturbances, arthralgia and a range of cognitive and psychiatric disturbances," the authors wrote. "According to these clinical features, a diagnosis of primary ovarian failure (POF) was determined which also fulfilled the required criteria for the ASIA syndrome.""We documented here the evidence of the potential of the HPV vaccine to trigger a life-disabling autoimmune condition," the study concluded. "The increasing number of similar reports of post HPV vaccine-linked autoimmunity and the uncertainty of long-term clinical benefits of HPV vaccination are a matter of public health that warrants further rigorous inquiry."The second study cited by the College was titled "Adolescent premature ovarian insufficiency following human papillomavirus vaccination: a case series seen in general practice" and concluded, "Three young women who developed premature ovarian insufficiency following quadrivalent human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination presented to a general practitioner.""The unrelated girls were aged 16, 16, and 18 years at diagnosis," and each "had received HPV vaccinations prior to the onset of ovarian decline.""Each had been prescribed the oral contraceptive pill to treat menstrual cycle abnormalities prior to investigation and diagnosis," the study authors wrote."Enduring ovarian capacity and duration of function following vaccination is unresearched in preclinical studies, clinical and postlicensure studies," the study reports. "Postmarketing surveillance does not accurately represent diagnoses in adverse event notifications and can neither represent unnotified cases nor compare incident statistics with vaccine course administration rates.""Preservation of reproductive health is a primary concern in the recipient target group," the authors state. "Since this group includes all prepubertal and pubertal young women, demonstration of ongoing, uncompromised safety for the ovary is urgently required.""The potential significance of a case series of adolescents with idiopathic premature ovarian insufficiency following HPV vaccination presenting to a general practice warrants further research," the study warns. "This matter needs to be resolved for the purposes of population health and public vaccine confidence."January 27, 2016, Press Release. American College of Pediatrician. "New Concerns about the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine." ACPeds.org Colafrancesco S, Perricone C, Tomljenovic L, Shoenfeld Y. Human papilloma virus vaccine and primary ovarian failure: another facet of the autoimmune/inflammatory syndrome induced by adjuvants. Am J Reprod Immunol. 2013; 70:309-316. NCBI.NLM.NIH.gov Little DT, and Ward HR. Adolescent premature ovarian insufficiency following human papillomavirus vaccination: a case series seen in general practice. J Inv Med High Imp Case Rep. 2014; doi:10.1177/2324709614556129, pp 1-12. HIC.SAGEPub.com Those that sing together, stay together -- at least for some birds, according to the latest study from the Cornell University Lab of Ornithology. Not all birds are monogamous, and when it comes to Australian red-backed fairy-wrens both sexes tend to be very promiscuous. In fact, Cornell researchers found that 60 percent of bird nests surveyed during their study contained offspring that belonged to a male who did not share the nest. Raising one's own young can be taxing as it is, so how do fairy-wrens keep from wasting energy and resources on another male's chicks? Researchers found the answer is simple: Sing with your mate. "The result was not expected at all," Daniel Baldassarre, of the study researchers, said in a news release. "In fact, we were actually looking into whether more aggressive males did better at preventing extra-pair matings with their mate than more timid males. We thought the aggressive males would be cuckolded less often." Researchers tested their aggression hypothesis in the subtropical grasslands and open woodland habitats favored by red-backed fairy-wrens just outside Brisbane in Queensland, Australia. Fake fairy-wrens were set up in bushes and researchers played male song recordings to see how wrens would react. While some birds were fierce in their territorial defense, physically attacking the fake birds to drive them off, others were more cautious. However, aggressive behavior made no difference, as the males' mates were just as unfaithful. Instead, researchers discovered pairs were less likely to mate outside of their pair bond when they sang together more. In other words, those that began a duet quickly after detecting an intruder and sang duets more often had lower rates of infidelity. This is what researchers call a "strong" duet-singing response. "The male and female will immediately fly together and perch on a branch right next to each other and start belting out these duets," Baldassarre added. "If the males are particularly riled up, they will do this 'puff-back' display, raising the orange or red feathers on their back to the intruder. While singing duets, their heads are thrown back to the sky with their beaks wide open." Next researchers hope to study what exactly is going on during these duets and who is taking the lead. "The big picture question is about how animals make mating decisions," Emma Greig, one of the study researchers, explained in the university's release. "Our results suggest the females are deciding what males to cuckold (cheat on). Females are either being influenced by their mate's songs, or females are indicating their own choice by singing with their mates more. We need more detailed work to distinguish these alternatives." Their findings were recently published in the journal Biology Letters. Related Articles Bluebirds Benefit From Living At Home For a Year Before Moving Out, Study Shows For more great nature science stories and general news, please visit our sister site, Headlines and Global News (HNGN). -Follow Samantha on Twitter @Sam_Ashley13 A new study from James Cook University revealed an uncharacteristic behavior of female blacktip reef sharks living in Cockle Bay near Townsville, Australia. Curiously, researchers found moms and their young stay close to shore for longer periods of time, while males join them only during breeding season. While this was unexpected, researchers say their discovery highlights the importance of conservation along coastal areas. "Adult female sharks are supposed to come in seasonally to give birth, and then leave," Dr. Andrew Chin, lead author of the study, explained in a news release. "But these adult females seem to remain in these areas all year round, and give birth there. The young grow up in muddy coastal bays using seagrass beds and mangroves before migrating." Over 100 sharks were tagged for their study, 28 of which were fitted with tracking tags to follow their movement patterns over a period of two years. "Neonates and juveniles were short-term residents; adult females were long-term residents and preliminary data suggest that adult males were vagrants, arriving in the area only to breed," Dr. Chin added in the university's release. "It doesn't appear to be linked to the availability of specific habitat types. There are extensive areas of mangroves and mudflats and fringing reef habitat, sand, mud and rubble flats nearby." This is the first study to show that young reef Pacific sharks grow up alongside breeding adult females and only transition to reefs offshore when they reach their teenage years. What remains somewhat of a mystery, however, is why the sharks appear to have a particular attachment to Cockle Bay. "Blacktip reef sharks from Cockle Bay didn't use them [seagrasses and mangroves]," Dr. Chin noted. "Some of them even stayed in the bay as a Category 5 cyclone approached while all the other sharks in the area left." Cockle Bay lies within a conservation park where commercial net fishing is prohibited. It is believed that the sharks may remain close to this area because it provides good protection to resident breeding females. "While blacktip reef sharks aren't prime target species like barra or trout, if recreational fishers start keeping too many sharks from there, it could have wider effects," Dr. Chin concluded. "Our study highlights the importance of protecting coastal habitats, and also managing these breeding grounds to ensure that adult females are looked after." Their study was recently published in the Marine Ecology Progress Series. Related Articles Shark Ultrasounds Boost Conservation Efforts Along Florida Coast (EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW) [VIDEO] Shark 'Tank': Blacktips Gather In Huge Group Near Coast For more great nature science stories and general news, please visit our sister site, Headlines and Global News (HNGN). -Follow Samantha on Twitter @Sam_Ashley13 The Northern spotted owl, native to the Pacific Northwest, has been declining across its range at a rate of nearly 4 percent per year from 1985 to 2013, according to a study published in December 2015. It was declared endangered in 1990. Of late, there is a culprit contributing to this decline: the invasive barred owl, a native of the eastern United States. The larger non-natives are competing with spotted owls for food, space and habitat -- and they've been called "bullies" by scientists, who note that in recent years they are pushing the native owl species out of its habitat. One biologist and contractor with a lumber company is participating in a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service-sanctioned experiment, to kill barred owls in order to protect the endangered owls. That biologist is Lowell Diller, who contracts with Green Diamond Resource Co., which manages forest-land in three Northern California counties, according to an AP article. Barred owls have been pushing out northern spotted owls in upstate California, and are spreading south toward San Francisco. Diller heard that the California Academy of Sciences' ornithology curator, Jack Dumbacher, had received a permit to gather some barred owl specimens. Diller applied for his own permit. Beginning in 2009, he designated certain patches of timberland for barred owl removal. In other areas, he left the populations alone. Four years later, he noted that in the areas that lacked barred owls, northern spotted owl numbers are not declining. Diller's findings will soon be published in the Journal of Wildlife Management and Wildlife Monographs, showing that northern spotted owls bounce back when they don't need to compete for habitat with barred owls. "It's sort of a no-win situation," Andrea Jones, the National Audubon Society's California director of bird conservation, said in the AP article. "We're not advocating for the killing or against the killing." Jones says that destruction of old-growth habitat has resulted in the two owl species being pitted against each other. While Diller said in the article that he doesn't enjoy killing the birds, he tries to focus on saving the native species. The northwestern program director of Defenders of Wildlife, Shawn Cantrell, also feels that the invasive removal should be short-term: "When we mess things up, we have an obligation to fix them," he said in the article. For more great nature science stories and general news, please visit our sister site, Headlines and Global News (HNGN). -Follow Catherine on Twitter @TreesWhales A San Diego Police Department (SDPD) officer is receiving a special award next month for saving the life of a toddler in Logan Heights a heroic act the girls mother will never forget. In April 2015, Officer Robert Carlson responded to a 911 call involving an 18-month-old girl, Kendall Hidalgo, who was unconscious and not breathing. Carlson arrived at the girls family home in Logan Heights almost immediately. The toddler was suffering from a violent seizure and had stopped breathing. Her face and lips were blue. Carlson rendered first aid to the girl until paramedics arrived. Going above and beyond, the officer stayed with the family at the hospital until they knew Kendall would be okay. Fast-forward one year later and Carlson has become a big part of the girls life a life her mother says she owes to the officer. If it took him a minute more to get here, she wouldn't have been here now, said Kendalls mother, Jessica Salas. I was really grateful that he helped her. He saved my baby. Salas said she still gets tearful when she thinks about that fateful day. Carlson said hes very glad he was able to help. I think it really makes you appreciate life. You don't take anything for granted. Whether it be at work or at home. Every little thing is precious, he said. Today, Carlson visits Kendall regularly, sometimes bearing gifts that come from a collective donation or the community. He's a blessing to us. He's part of the family now, said Salas. The family is even inviting Carlson to Kendalls baptism later this year. The officer and the little girl share a special bond. From that day, I felt connected to her, said Carlson. In a neighborhood where some residents don't trust police, the connection between the officer and the family goes a long way. Now, my son, when he sees a police officer, hes like, Oh, theres my amigo, said Salas. I think a lot of times we get a negative connotation that we're just a heavy hand, but that's not the case. A lot of officers are out here because they want to do good. They want to help people, added Carlson. We want to be out here making their quality of life better, in whatever way we can. They're living and going through the same stuff we are. Next month, Carlson will receive an award for saving Kendalls life at a public ceremony. Carlson was recommended for the award by Central Division Patrol Sgt. Nick Nguyen. The toughest calls that we as law enforcement go to are the ones that are for people that essentially can't take care of themselves," Nguyen said. The sergeant has also recommended another colleague for the award, SDPD Officer Carlos Munoz. In October 2015, Munoz stopped a suicidal man from jumping off a 12th story ledge in the East Village onto a play area for children. The officer established a rapport with the man. We talked about many different things, like what he was feeling, what he was thinking. He said he felt like a coward for not jumping. I told him he was a coward if he did. And I was there to help, said Munoz. You don't come to someone as a police officer, you come to them as a human being. Munoz literally talked the man off the edge. On his own, the man climbed over the ledge and into the officers arms. Nguyen says the life-saving award isnt only motivating for the officers who are honored, but motivating to all officers around them. It shows to the other officers that their hard work does get recognized by the public, by the department, and by their superiors," said Munoz. Officers at Central Division say up to 45 percent of their calls involve the mentally ill homeless, so working with a sense of empathy while remaining alert is important. In one area on Commercial Street, tents line both sides of the street underneath a highway overpass. Officers say the area is also known for drugs. So when we get a call of an unknown person making suicide threats, we have to come here and try to find a needle in a haystack, so to speak. We never know how many people are in a tent, or what kind of weapons they have in them," Munoz explained. "Many homeless carry weapons to defend themselves because they're living out in the streets. They can go from being totally compliant one second to being incredibly combative the very next second," he added. Sometimes, officers are able to de-escalate potential violence, with empathy. "They know the sincerity in your heart, the sincerity in your voice; they'll more often than not listen to you," said Munoz. And sometimes, the people officers come into contact with just need help. They run out of medication. They need to go see a doctor. So I ask them, do you need to go to the doctor? They say yes, and we'll take them to the hospital. We'll get them the help that they need," said Munoz. While Munoz and Carlson are being recognized for two entirely different incidents, what they do have in common is they were able to use their people skills to help someone in crisis. And that's exactly what San Diego police say their job is all about being able to communicate effectively with people. A University of San Diego (USD) student who lost his eyesight in a hit-and-run crash has now gained many things: a canine companion, loyal friends and newfound confidence. Michael Girard, an undergraduate student majoring in sociology at USD, was involved in a life-changing crash in the late 1990s. As he rode his motorcycle from California to New Mexico, Girard was struck by a car. The driver fled the scene, leaving him badly injured. The next thing he knew, Girard was lying in a hospital bed. He soon learned the impact from the collision had caused him to completely lose his eyesight. Nearly 20 years after the crash, Girard navigates the world using his other senses. However, as a student on a college campus, being blind has been a bit of a challenge and members of the universitys Sigma Pi fraternity could clearly see that. For the past year-and-a-half, the frat has been working to raise funds to get a service dog for Girard through a project dubbed Operation Bow Wow. With support from other Greek and student organizations across the campus, Sigma Pi was recently able to obtain a seeing-eye dog for Girard, a 19-month-old German Shepard named Eric. Now, with Eric by his side, Girards life on campus has changed. I have greater mobility; I have greater confidence in crossing the street. Because I was hit and run down, I still deal with some post-traumatic stress of wondering where the other side of the curb [is], Girard told NBC 7. I dont worry that Im going to be hit and run down again. With the help of his canine companion, Girard said he also feels safer. And, with so many friends and fellow students by his side, hes also never felt more loved. Im still overwhelmed by so many peoples outreach. The support has touched me in ways that I cant even begin to describe, Girard said. The kind support of the people from Greek life that I find a new life with Greek life and it can enable me to transform my very challenging life into a very remarkable life. Operation Bow Wow was spearheaded by Sigma Pi member Jesse Nebres, who has become a good friend to Girard. Nebres said he and his friends would often see Girard around campus, walking with his cane, and help guide him to class or the cafeteria. The two got to talking and one day, Nebres asked Girard why he didnt have a service dog. Girard said hes on scholarship at USD, and while he qualifies for a service dog, he didnt have the means to pay for the costs that come with having a service companion, including medical care and food. Nebres mobilized his frat brothers and Operation Bow Wow was hatched. We thought itd be a good idea to try to make his life a little bit better. Hes been through a lot. Knowing that we could make a difference for him, to get him a guide dog that could be with him when students are not able to help him out, that was a cause everyone rallied around, Nebres told NBC 7. It was incredible to see how many organizations knew Mike, and wanted to help get him that guide dog. The word spread quickly, and through an online fundraising campaign, the fraternity was able to raise $10,000 to cover expenses for Girard to have a guide dog. A member of a USD sorority reached out to her father, local veterinarian Dr. Sarbjit Singh of Animal Medical Hospital of Poway, who pledged to provide medical care for the service life of Girards dog. Last month, Girard met Eric and theyve been inseparable ever since. I was speechless when I finally saw Mike with his guide dog, said Nebres, smiling. Within a year-and-a-half, you can pet the results of this campaign. Girard said he will forever be grateful to his friends at USD for banding together to help him. Every time they guided him around the campus, Girard said the students helped him not feel so awkward. Most of the fraternities helped me before I tried to help myself, Girard said. I have been so honored to be a recipient of so much service from people associated with Greek organizations. Nebres said the desire to help others is part of frat life even though its not always highlighted. Its always been there that fraternities are trying to make their communities better. [USD] Toreros really do take care of each other. You see it with alums with everyone on campus. The Army staff sergeant charged with killing his wife and a Virginia police officer on her first day on the job was arraigned in court Monday in connection with the deadly exchange, which also wounded two other officers. Prince William County PD Ronald Hamilton, 32, showed no emotion as he was arraigned in two separate hearings because the charges are being handled by two different courts. The first hearing was held in the county's Juvenile and Domestic Court on a charge of first-degree murder in the death of Hamilton's wife, 29-year-old Crystal Hamilton. Northern Virginia Capital Defender Ed Ungvarsky stepped forward, seeking to represent Ronald Hamilton during the hearing. The commonwealth attorney objected, telling the judge the charges in this particular case were not a capital offense. But Ungvarsky argued he should be allowed to represent Ronald Hamilton as the charge he is facing in the death of Prince William County Officer Ashley Guindon is a capital offense. One of Crystal Hamilton's friends cried in the front row during the proceedings, NBC4 Northern Virginia Bureau Chief Julie Carey reported. Crime scene investigators are still pouring over every inch of the Hamiltons' Woodbridge home, the scene of one of the worst shootings in years in Prince William county. On the lawn, the memorial to Crystal Hamilton grows. Police said Ronald Hamilton shot his wife and Guindon following a domestic altercation at the couple's Woodbridge home. According to court documents, Hamilton admitted he shot his wife and the officers. He is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center in Manassas, Virginia. Crystal Hamilton called 911 Saturday evening after getting into a physical altercation with her husband, police said. Investigators believe she was killed before officers arrived. According to police, Ronald Hamilton confronted and shot all three officers when they approached the front door. The couple's 11-year-old son was also home at the time of the shooting but was unharmed. Wendy Howard, Crystal Hamilton's sister, thanked the community for its support in the wake of her sister's death. "We just want to thank everyone... the officers that were involved, and most importantly, the officer who sacrificed her life for my sister and my nephew," Wendy Howard said. "I thank you and God bless your family." Ronald Hamilton is an active duty Army staff sergeant assigned to the Joint Staff Support Center at the Pentagon, according to Cindy Your, a Defense Information Systems Agency spokeswoman based at Fort Meade, Maryland. He previously signed releases that would have given the prosecution access to his military health records, but Ungvarsky requested that the releases be rescinded. Ronald Hamilton was charged in 2007 with assault in another state. He was allowed to enter a diversion program to avoid jail time. He worked as an information technology specialist and had been stationed at the Pentagon since 2011. Ronald Hamilton was deployed in Iraq twice, from Feb. 2003 to Feb. 2005 and again from Oct. 2005 to Sept. 2006. He received numerous service awards and Army commendation and service medals. The injured officers were identified as Jesse Hempen, 31, an eight-year veteran of department; and David McKeown, 33, a 10-year department veteran. They are expected to recover, Hudson said. Details about their injuries were not released. More than 100 patrol cars lined the roads outside Inova Fairfax Hospital in Northern Virginia on Sunday night to stand vigil and provide escort to the medical examiner for Guindon's body. It is a sad day for everyone in this room. A sad day for law enforcement, Prince William County police Chief Stephan Hudson said during a news conference Sunday. We extend our condolences to Ashleys mother and extended family. Guindon went through training with the department last year before leaving for personal reasons. She rejoined the department this year and had been sworn in as an officer on Friday. She was on her first shift Saturday when she was shot. "We were struck by her passion to do this job," Hudson said. "She did share with us when we rehired her that she felt like she wanted to do this job. She couldn't get it out of her blood." Four students were hurt when gunfire erupted Monday morning in a school cafeteria in Madison, Ohio, authorities said. According to the Butler County Sheriff's Office, a 14-year-old boy shot two peers during lunchtime at Madison Junior/Senior High School, which serves 1,600 students in grades 7 through 12. School officials described the students' injuries as non-life threatening and said they were airlifted to a local hospital for treatment. A doctor at Miami Valley Hospital said the two boys, ages 13 and 14, will fully recover. Two other students a 14-year-old girl and 14-year-old boy suffered shrapnel wounds or were hurt while trying to leave the building, NBC affiliate WLWT reports. The suspected gunman was taken into custody and will be charged with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of felonious assault, inducing panic and making terroristic threats, according to the sheriff's office. "This is a tragic and horrific event that you hope never happens," Butler County Sheriff Richard K. Jones said in a statement Monday. Officials said the school was on lockdown and students were dismissed just before noon. Ohio Gov. John Kasich, a Republican running for president, told reporters, "obviously it's a tragedy," but added, "thank God no life was lost." School and community relations coordinator AJ Huff said the school's emergency training paid off Monday. "It has been valuable for our teachers and administrators," Huff explained. "When I got the call, I immediately knew what to do, how to handle things, and students knew how to react." In the highly-contested race for Cook County States Attorney, the Chicago Tribune editorial board endorsed candidate Kim Foxx Friday. Foxx, a Chicago native, served as an assistant Cook County states attorney for 12 years and has emerged as a viable replacement for embattled incumbent Anita Alvarez. Elections are opportunities to evaluate the needs of the times and of the citizens who write their public servants' paychecks, the editorial board wrote. Today we acknowledge Alvarez's 29-year career in this office. Yet we endorse one of her challengers, Kim Foxx, in the Democratic primary for state's attorney. Alvarez came under fire amid the Laquan McDonald scandal. McDonald, a 17-year-old Chicagoan, was shot and killed by Chicago Police officer Jason Van Dyke in October of 2014. Van Dyke was not charged with McDonalds murder until November of 2015 when dash-cam footage of the incident was being made public as a result of a Freedom of Information Act request. Alvarez, who has worked in the office for nearly three decades, was previously endorsed by the Tribune in 2008 and 2012. The Tribune lauded her prosecutorial experience but cited concerns over her leadership. If we could choose one of the three candidates in this race to prosecute a murder case in a courtroom tomorrow, we'd choose Alvarez for her depth of experience there, the editorial board wrote. But the top job of state's attorney involves many other skills: judgment about law enforcement priorities and conduct; frank and comfortable communication with the public; administration of a big and vital office that, like all of county government, will have to get smaller as pension costs crush budgets. Nevertheless, the Tribune claimed Foxx, given her resume, would be the right candidate to restore the publics trust in the office in the wake of the McDonald scandal. We think Foxx, by contrast, in time would rebuild the public's trust, the editorial board wrote. She spent 12 years as an assistant state's attorney, mostly in juvenile court, and served as chief of staff to Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle. In the endorsement, the paper showed concern over Foxxs relationship with Preckwinkle, who has helped finance Foxxs campaign. Foxx served as Preckwinkles chief-of-staff. She has been endorsed by her former boss, Preckwinkle, and the county Democratic organization, the endorsement reads. Beyond a polite hello in the elevator, prosecutors should be fiercely independent of politicians, especially those who sign off on their budget. The clear and present dangers of intrusion from county pols run from patronage to policy to principle. The paper also expounds on the need for the next states attorney to serve as a bridge between crime-riddled communities and law enforcement. Foxx suggested to us that she does understand the crime-fighting demands of the job, the endorsement reads. We trust that she could connect with people in those violence-ravaged communities. That she could explain to them why cooperating with cops and prosecutors in finding and convicting the bad guys can curtail the bloodshed that takes so many of their children's lives. Former Illinois governor Pat Quinn also endorsed Kim Foxx in the race for States Attorney on Sunday. "Kim Foxx is a strong voice for reform and justice for all, Governor Quinn said in a statement provided by Foxx's campaign. She has the integrity and ability to serve the people of Cook County well as their states attorney. Foxx, Alvarez and former state and federal prosecutor Donna More face off in the March 15 Democratic primary. Christopher Pfannkuche will run unopposed on the Republican ticket. Chicago Public Schools has announced another round of teacher layoffs amid an ongoing contract stalemate with the Chicago Teachers Union and a lack of school funding by the state. A total of 62 employees throughout the district will receive layoff notices, including 17 teachers, CPS said in a statement Monday. That inlcudes 43 full-time employees and 19 part-time workers. The fact that these cuts needed to happen in the first place is unfortunate for our principals, teachers and most of all our students, CPS CEO Forrest Claypool said in a statement. Our objective is to secure fair funding for our students, bring Illinois up from last in the country for education funding and work with Springfield to start treating students in poverty fairly, so our students get the education they deserve. These painful cuts are not what we want to do, but they are critical to keeping our school doors open. The layoffs come just weeks after the district announced hundreds of millions of dollars in school budget cuts, with Claypool saying the district would "do our very best to prevent teacher cuts." CTU President Karen Lewis said at the time that everyone in the district was facing a clear and present danger. Last month, the district gave layoff notices to more than 220 employees from its Central Office and administrative staff, closing more than 400 positions in an effort to save $45.1 million annually. With a budget crisis looming and the second semester underway, the district said those cuts were made by prioritizing the immediate needs of our schools." Republican lawmakers earlier proposed legislation that would give the state control over CPS and allow the financially struggling district to claim bankruptcy. Illinois Senate Minority Leader Christine Radogno and House Minority Leader Jim Durkin said they were throwing Chicago and CPS a lifeline." Gov. Bruce Rauner backed the plan, but Mayor Rahm Emanuel said he was "100 percent opposed" to it. Claypool has also blasted Rauners 2017 state budget plan, saying his proposal supports a system that discriminates against low income and minority children. Today he made it clear he was going to nothing to change the fundamental inequity, CPS CEO Claypool said. He added that Rauner defended a system that is indefensible. In-person early voting for the fast-approaching March 15 primary election began at 9 a.m. Monday in Chicago and neighboring suburbs. Early voting will be available Monday at 50 Chicago locations and 43 suburban locations throughout Cook and neighboring counties. Thirty-seven Chicago locations will offer early voting until March 12, while 14 locations will hold early voting until March 14. During the last election, Cook County reported that over 36,000 early ballots were cast. Ballots can also be cast by mail. As of 2010, voters are no longer required to provide a reason for filing an absentee ballot. The Chicago Board of Elections in the Loop has offered early voting since mid-February. Early-voting will allow Cook County residents to weigh-in early on some of the high-profile elections that will be decided March 15. The ticket for the Democratic presidential nomination features former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders. The Republican ballot features GOP presidential candidates Donald Trump, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, Ohio Gov. John Kasich and Dr. Ben Carson. Rep. Tammy Duckworth and Urban League President and CEO Andrea Zopp will face off in the Democratic primary for Mark Kirks U.S. Senate seat. Incumbent Kirk will face underdog Oswego businessman James Marter in the Republican primary for his U.S. Senate seat. Also included on the ballot are the Democratic hopefuls for States Attorney, incumbent Anita Alvarez, Kim Foxx and Donna More. Republican States Attorney candidate Christopher Pfannkuche will run unopposed on the Republican ballot. Illinois instituted no-excuse early voting in 2006 as a result of declining Election Day voter turnout. The program has since created a political tug-of-war, with Democrats lobbying for its expansion and Republicans approaching the program with caution. A press conference touting the early-voting initiative will be held by at the Museum of Broadcast Communications Monday. Chicago Board of Election Commissioners and Cook County Clerk David Orr will host. This is the third time early voting has been offered in Chicago and Cook County during a presidential election cycle. Mayor Rahm Emanuel cast a ballot at the Board of Elections Monday morning. A man in Ohio who fatally shot his roommate almost 40 years ago and ate part of his brain is under review for parole. David Allen Chapin, 60, is currently serving a life sentence at the Allen Correction Institution in Lima, Ohio, according to state records. He has been denied parole at least six times, a spokesperson from the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction told NBC Chicago. Chapin shot his roommate Donald Liming in Milford, Ohio, on Oct. 3, 1978, The Cincinnati Enquirer reports. The pair, who had been friends since childhood, had been arguing about religion; Chapin was a Baptist and Liming said he was a Catholic, a Buddhist, as well as a pagan, according to the publication. Chapin put Limings body into the trunk of his Buick Skylark and drove to a community college he was attending, the Enquirer reported, citing archives. While in biology class, Chapin asked the professor if he needed a corpse to dissect. During the course of his murder trial in Clermont County, Chapin explained to a court-ordered psychiatrist that he devoured part of Limings brain as part of a "mutual agreement" between the roommates, according to the Enquirer. The Ohio Parole Board conducted a closed release consideration hearing on Feb. 1, and the case was referred to the Central Office Board Review, according to JoEllen Smith of the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction. A decision is pending. The case has now been moved to the Central Office Board Review for consideration, which will review his case history and the publics opinion before they make a recommendation, according to Smith. Additionally, a public hearing could be scheduled where Limings family and the Clermont County Prosecutor would oppose Limings release, according to the Enquirer. A Northwest Side man has been charged with a fatal hit-and-run crash last Sunday in the Avondale neighborhood. Felix Fajardo, 33, was at the wheel of an SUV that struck Christopher Sanchez just before 5: 30 a.m. Feb. 21 at the intersection of Milwaukee and Belmont, according to Chicago Police and the Cook County medical examiners office. Sanchez, 34, was taken to Advocate Illinois Masonic Medical Center, where he died within the hour, authorities said. He lived in the 3100 block of North Sawyer. Family members said at a Monday vigil that Sanchez, a single mechanic, lived nearby and had been walking home after a night out when he was struck. Fire officials said the man was thrown about 30 feet from the impact. Police released a surveillance photo Tuesday of an SUV seen fleeing northbound on Milwaukee after the crash. Thanks to the surveillance video, police had a good description of the vehicle involved and released pictures shortly after it happened to solicit more leads. Apparently, it worked. Early Monday, they announced Fajardo was charged with leaving the scene of an accident involving a death, of the 5100 block of West Patterson. Fajardo, of the 5100 block of West Patterson, is scheduled to appear in bond court Monday. Ted Cruz was projected the victor in his home state on Super Tuesday, a must-win for the Texas senator against Donald Trump. He spoke Tuesday night from a victory party at Stafford, Texas, insisting he was the only serious Republican alternative to Trump a pointed critique of Sen. Marco Rubio, who is also chasing Trump in delegates. "Our campaign is the only campaign that has beaten, that can beat, and that will beat Donald Trump," he said. Cruz's success in the Republican primary was expected but key to his campaign. He also was the winner in Oklahoma, where Trump had led in the polls. On the Democratic side, former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton took Texas. The state was expected to offer a home-field advantage to Cruz, especially among conservatives with whom he is popular, and he had gotten the endorsements of both the current Republican Gov. Greg Abbott and the former Republican Gov. Rick Perry. An NBC/Wall Street Journal/Marist poll released Sunday showed Cruz leading Trump 39 percent to 26 percent among likely Republican voters, with Rubio at 16 percent. In his victory speech, Cruz urged his GOP rivals to come over to his campaign. So long as the field remains divided Donald Trumps path to the nomination remains more likely, he said. And that would be a disaster for Republicans, for conservatives and for the nation. The Republican primary had exploded in vitriol ahead of Super Tuesday when 11 states voted and for Cruz overshadowed first by Rubios broadside against Trump and then by the surprise endorsement of Trump by New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie, his home state was do or die. Another blow to the Texas senator came Sunday afternoon: an endorsement of Trump by Sen. Jeff Sessions of Alabama, a determined opponent of immigration reform and one of Cruz's few allies in the Senate. Cruz, who had won only Iowa going into Super Tuesday, campaigned hard against Trump, saying he could beat Trump in a two-man race and calling on him to release an off-the-record interview with The New York Times about his immigration views. The website BuzzFeed reported that Trump had suggested to the Times editorial board that he was not serious about deporting all undocumented immigrants and building a wall along the U.S.-Mexico border that Mexico would pay for. "It is either false ... (or) he actually now is telling The New York Times editorial board: 'Pay no attention to what I'm saying on immigration because I, Donald Trump don't intend to do anything I'm saying,'" Cruz said at a campaign rally in San Antonio on Monday. On Sunday on NBC's "Meet the Press," he suggested that Trump was refusing to release his tax returns because of supposed ties to organized crime figures. Texas Democratic primary received much less attention because Clinton held a significant lead over Sen. Bernie Sanders. In that contest, one of 13 among Democrats, the NBC/Wall Street Journal/Marist poll had Clinton ahead 59 percent to 38 percent. And while Clinton did take Texas, she was projected to lose to Sanders in Oklahoma, a victory that will bouy the Sanders campaign. Matt Mackowiak, a Republican political consultant in Washington, D.C., and Austin, and founder of Potomac Strategy Group, noted that not only is Texas Cruz's home state but it has 155 delegates to allocate, the most of any Super Tuesday GOP contest. Unless a candidate earns more than 50 percent of the state, they are awarded proportionately. One hundred and eight of the delegates are allocated in 36 congressional districts. If a candidate gets more than 50 percent of the vote, he wins three delegates. If not, the winner takes two delegates and the runner-up gets one. Another 44 delegates are awarded statewide, also proportionately if a candidate does not clear 50 percent of the vote but receives more than 20 percent. The final three delegates are members of the Republican National Committee from Texas. On the Democratic side, 222 delegates are at stake. Another 29 delegates are categorized as "superdelegates" who can choose a candidate to back at the party's national convention in July. Cruz had 27,000 volunteers in Texas and an organization with which he won a bitter Senate race in 2012 -- in a large state with 20 media markets that is difficult to organize, he said. This year, Texas' primary was pushed forward from May 29 and it has been hoping to be an influential contest with its large pool of delegates. Some of the sharpest exchanges among candidates came as they moved their campaigning into the Lone Star state after South Carolina's contest. Most political observers thought Trump would fade in popularity, but instead, the businessman has been famously bypassing traditional campaigning to win -- taking advantage of his celebrity for large rallies and free media coverage. His success has relied on that celebrity as he taps into the appeal for an outsider. But there also is the simplicity of his message, which neither Cruz nor Rubio has been able to duplicate, Mackowiak said. "Its hard to distill their message down into one or two sentences," he said. "Its not hard for Trump. Everyone knows 'Make America great again.' Everyone knows what he has proposed on immigrant and trade." A poll from the University of Texas/Texas Tribune found that 21 percent of Republican primary voters thought the most important reason for choosing a candidate was to improve the American economy. The second was to give the Republican party a good chance to win in November. Cruz is seen as an aggressive man with whom other people find it difficult to work, Southern Methodist University political science professor Cal Jillson said. Late last week, Sen. Lindsey Graham of South Carolina, at the same dinner at which he said his party had gone "bats**t crazy" for its embrace of Trump, also lashed into Cruz, saying he had alienated both Republicans and Democrats. "If you killed Ted Cruz on the floor of the Senate and the trial was in the Senate, nobody could convict you," he joked. Officials at the University of California, Berkeley are investigating a cyber attack that breached a system containing the personal information -- including social security numbers and bank information -- of tens of thousands of people. The information of 50 percent of current students and 65 percent of employees has been made vulnerable by the attack, campus officials said. There is currently no evidence that anyone accessed or used any of the information, but staff are continuing to investigate the December attack, which was made public Friday. The hack occurred when an unauthorized person gained access to computers that are part of the Berkeley Financial System through a security flaw. A school official said that the flaw was in the process of being patched. The security and privacy of the personal information provided to the university is of great importance to us, said Paul Rivers, UC Berkeleys chief information security officer. We regret that this occurred and have taken additional measures to better safeguard that information. The university uses Berkeley Financial System for purchasing and most non-salary payments, school official said in a statement. Those students who receive payments from the universitys electronic fund transfers (such as for financial aid) and teachers and staff who made claims for reimbursements are most at risk, according to a statement. Investigators who were looking into the breach collected names and contact information for people at-risk and started sending out notice letters Friday containing credit protection services. Donald Trump stepped back from comments he made in a television interview over the weekend when he claimed to know nothing about former Klu Klux Klan leader David Duke, saying that he couldn't hear the questions clearly. Trump was asked Sunday on CNN's "State of the Union" whether he rejected support for his presidential campaign from the former KKK Grand Dragon and other white supremacists after Duke. "Well, just so you understand, I don't know anything about David Duke. OK?" Trump told host Jake Tapper. In a phone-in interview with NBCs Today on Monday, the Republican front-runner blamed the earpiece he was wearing, saying he could not understand what Tapper was asking him. Im sitting in a house in Florida with a very bad earpiece that they gave me and you could hardly hear what he was saying, he told hosts Matt Lauer and Savannah Guthrie. Trump also said that he "disavowed David Duke all weekend long on Facebook and on Twitter." Duke implicitly endorsed Trump last week, telling his radio followers that a vote for anyone but Trump was equivalent to treason to your heritage. Trump, who held a rally at Radford University on Monday, did not mention the comments about Duke, or the former KKK leader's support. Trump was asked Friday by journalists how he felt about Duke's support. He said he didn't know anything about it and curtly said: "All right, I disavow, ok?" Rubio slammed Trump's explanation while holding a rally Monday in Knoxville, Tennessee. "I don't care how bad the earpiece is," he said. "Ku Klux Klan comes through pretty clearly." Former presidential candidate and Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, who appeared on MSNBC's "Morning Joe" said he believed that Trump "totally disavowed the endorsement." "Does anybody think Donald Trump is a racist? I don't," he said. "I mean I really don't. I don't know of anything in his life that indicates that this man has racist tendencies." South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, campaigning with Rubio late Monday in Atlanta, said Trump is an example of what she taught her kids not to do in kindergarten, namely "lie and make things up." "I told my kids to do exactly what Rubio did in the last debate," she added. "When a bully hits you, you hit that bully right back." Rubio earlier told thousands of supporters in Leesburg, Virginia: "We cannot be a party who refuses to condemn white supremacists and the Ku Klux Klan. Not only is that wrong, it makes him unelectable. How are we going to grow the party if we nominate someone who doesn't repudiate the Ku Klux Klan?" GOP rival Ted Cruz responded to Trump on Twitter, telling him, "You're better than this. We should all agree, racism is wrong, KKK is abhorrent." Really sad. @realDonaldTrump you're better than this. We should all agree, racism is wrong, KKK is abhorrent. https://t.co/dn2D74c5dl Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) February 28, 2016 The billionaire hasn't always claimed ignorance on Duke's history. In 2000, he wrote a New York Times op-ed explaining why he abandoned the possibility of running for president on the Reform Party ticket. He wrote of an "underside" and "fringe element" of the party, concluding, "I leave the Reform Party to David Duke, Pat Buchanan and Lenora Fulani. That is not company I wish to keep." Democrat Bernie Sanders also lashed out at his Republican rival on Twitter, writing: "America's first black president cannot and will not be succeeded by a hatemonger who refuses to condemn the KKK." America's first black president cannot and will not be succeeded by a hatemonger who refuses to condemn the KKK. Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) February 28, 2016 Hillary Clinton, who was campaigning in Memphis ahead of Super Tuesday, retweeted Sanders' tweet against Trump. She issued a call to unite the nation, asking worshippers at two churches to reject the demagoguery, the prejudice, the paranoia. Calls to 911 reveal the frantic scene after a bizarre attack involving a machete sent one man to the hospital in Connecticut over the weekend. Terror in the callers' voices is evident in the recordings from Saturday night, when 30-year-old Zchacorey Pouncey, of Broad Brook, allegedly attacked another man with a machete outside the victims home on Abbe Road. The victims girlfriend called 911. "I have a head injury. We got somebody running theres (expletive) blood all over the place. We just need somebody here right now," the woman told the dispatcher. She then handed the phone to her boyfriend, who had been cut with the machete. "She went out. Came home with her cousins boyfriend. Ive got the machete right now that this dude tried to chop me up with," the victim said in the call. "OK, is the person with the machete still there?" the dispatcher asked. "I took the machete from him. He (expletive) tried to kill me," the victim replied. Police said the man fought back against the suspect but wont be charged because he was acting in self-defense. "I dont even know if hes all right. You guys may have to look for him," he told the dispatcher. Neighbors found Pouncey lying on their porch, bleeding heavily from a head wound. Pouncey was taken to the hospital and later arrested and charged with assault, breach of peace and carrying a dangerous weapon. "The house is a mess. Theres pure blood in here. Nobody died or nothing like that, but yeah, he came home and tried to kill me," the victim repeated on the 911 call. Police still dont have a motive but said Pouncey was intoxicated. Pouncey also faces charges for allegedly starting a fight and breaking the window of the German Club in Broad Brook. Employees said they kicked Pouncey out after he appeared to become intoxicated and start a fight. Upon being locked out of the club, police said Pouncey used the machete to break a window. East Windsor police said they plan to charge him with criminal mischief and disorderly conduct. Information on an attorney for Pouncey was not immediately available. Police have made an arrest in the stabbing death of a man in Waterbury. Officers have charged Dario Rosado, 25, with killing 22-year-old Ricardo Medina early Sunday morning. Rosado stabbed Medina in the chest and the side near 315 Baldwin Street just before 4:30 a.m. on Sunday, according to police. Medina was rushed to St. Mary's Hospital where he died. Rosado is also stabbed a second man during the altercation, police said. The second victim, 31-year-old Andres DeLeon, was treated at the hospital and released. Rosado is charged with murder, criminal attempt at murder and first-degree reckless endangerment. He is expected to be in court on Monday. The Shelton community is mourning a high school student who was killed in a crash early Sunday morning. Shelton police say 17-year-old Edmund Conklin was driving on Bridgeport Avenue between the Crown Point Plaza and Long Hill Cross Road at 4:45 a.m. when the accident occurred. When police arrived they found Conklins vehicle rolled over and Conklin outside the vehicle. He was transported to the hospital for treatment but he did not survive his injuries. Police say theyve been in touch with school officials and that the Shelton High School crisis team has been enacted. Superintendent Chris Clouet informed the district in a letter posted on the Shelton Public Schools website. Sadly, I must communicate with all of you that a young man, a senior at Shelton High School, died today as a result of a car accident, he wrote. More details will be forthcoming. First and foremost, this is a family tragedy; secondly, a shock to the entire school community. For Shelton High School students, support will be available at the high school. Please hold this young man in your thoughts and prayers. High School headmaster Dr. Beth A. Smith tweeted that Conklin was a senior. Support will be available for students at the school. A Connecticut woman celebrating her 50th birthday in style has been charged with robbing her own limousine driver and threatening to shoot up the limo in a Willimantic parking lot. Police arrested Melanie Roberts, 50, of Willimantic shortly after midnight on Monday. They said Roberts had just returned from a birthday bash in New York City when she got into a dispute with her limo driver over the amount due for the ride. According to police, Roberts took the keys from the limo, ran into her house and got a loaded 9mm pistol, then went back outside, threatening to shoot out the tires of the car. She stole a GPS device and a clipboard containing money and her contract from inside the limo, police said. Roberts took off and the driver called 911. Police found her in the same parking lot off Jackson Street a few minutes later. Roberts was charged with first-degree robbery, larceny, breach of peace, second-degree threatening and carrying a firearm under the influence. She was held on $35,000 bond after facing a judge on Monday. Prosecutors said Roberts has struggled with mental health issues, so the judge placed her on a medical and mental health watch. Information on an attorney for Roberts was not immediately available. Patti Cocuzzo and her partner, Kathy, were ready to make a move. They found a buyer for their unit in Lydall Woods Colonial Village in Manchester, but at the final inspection, everything changed. "My realtor texted me and said it's a "'no go." The inspector said that we have the same problem that many people in Connecticut have with the crumbling foundations," said Cocuzzo. Patti and Kathy had no idea about any foundation problems in their community. They called contractor Don Childree for confirmation. He's worked on dozens of homes with crumbling foundations, and recognized the unusual cracking right away. "It's the typical problem with the pyrrotite," said Childree. An email from the property manager shows the association has been aware of the concrete issues for years. "If we bought a house in 2011 and they knew about this problem, they'd have to disclose it to us. But we didn't buy a house, we bought into an association, so what makes it okay that they didn't tell us about that?" said Cocuzzo. Matthew Perlstein, the attorney for Lydall Woods, acknowledges the association knows about the problem, but said the duty to disclose any foundation issue would fall on the seller of the unit. "If a unit owner requests, the association will prepare and deliver what's known as a resale certificate," Perlstein said. That includes details of the budget and any upcoming capital expenditures. In a typical condominium, the cost of fixing a foundation would be shared by all the owners, but Lydall Woods is a "Planned Unit Development", not a condo, and according to the association documents, the responsibility is Patti and Kathy's alone. "The maintenance, repair and replacement of any part of the building, including the basement, falls on the individual owner of that residence," said Perlstein. But the logistics are tricky. Their building has 4 units, but only one foundation. "Everybody is tied in together, so if you wanted to fix your foundation, you wouldn't be able to do it unless you were able to convince the neighbors to do it too," said Don Childree. At this point, Patti Cocuzzo says any plans to move are on the back burner. "We've been told the place is not sellable, or we'd have to sell for maybe $50,000 or less," Cocuzzo said. They did contact the seller who said they had no knowledge of any foundation issues in 2011, when they sold the unit. At this point, Patti and Kathy have filed an insurance claim, but, like many homeowners in eastern Connecticut , they're waiting to learn whether any money will be made available to help them replace their foundation. A breakfast restaurant infamous for catering to a late-night crowd just opened up near one of Dallas' trendiest nightlife districts, and homeowners are worried that the new spot will bring noise. Two weeks ago a Waffle House opened near Ross and Henderson avenues, and business so far has been booming in that location. This brand-new store's location isn't accidental. Conveniently nestled between the Henderson Avenue nightclubs and Greenville Avenue pubs and just a mile from the bars of Uptown and Downtown Waffle House is poised to make a killing on weekend nights. But some residents are worried that a late-night crowd could be bad for the neighborhood. "If a police presence has to be on the property at two o'clock in the morning, then Waffle House will have to figure that out," said homeowner Tom Rush, who lives several blocks away. So far, there have been no fights and no unruly behavior at the restaurant. Police haven't been called out there. There has been a single customer complaint for loud noise. But some neighbors fear that the crowds will get thicker each week. "They get hungry, they want to eat something to try and sober up a little bit," said nearby resident Ray Damian. It's the only Waffle House in that area of town, and it's been slammed since it opened mid-February. Ray Damian said he hears party-goers walking down the streets on weekend nights and is worried that they will all end up at Waffle House. "You hear [party-goers] sometimes walking down the street, all drunk, screaming and hollering, once the bars close," he said. A Waffle House corporate manager said they've discussed hiring overnight security officers, but so far it's not necessary. It's just been good vibes and great food, even on crowded weekend mornings. And plenty of other neighbors say the crime-and-crowd concerns are simply overblown. "I've been living in this neighborhood for 20-plus years, and even just a couple blocks off of Greenville the noise stays down there," Tom Rush said. "I don't think we'll really see a problem at all." The Lower Greenville Neighborhood Association president says so far no one has complained. But plenty of residents have sat at the counter and ate. "I think overall it's a good change for the community. We have somewhere to go eat breakfast early in the morning," Damian said. Waffle House says police squad cars frequently drive up and down Ross Avenue once all the bars let out, so there's a noticeable police presence on weekend nights. Also, one waitress said several patrol officers are eating at the restaurant already during their lunch breaks, which adds an unofficial security presence as well. Southern Californians are pretty good about remembering that something important is happening on a particular day of the week. Take street cleaning days in several parts of the city; a person knows that leaving their vehicle at a particular curb at a particular time is a big no-go. Same with open hours at favorite restaurants, recycling pick-up, various school sports, and a caboodle of other days-of-the-week-y must-remembers. Here's another, it involves Tuesdays, and it is only on for March (so you only need to store it in your noggin for the length of a month): Hot Dog on a Stick, that stripey, lemonade-scented, batter-yummy icon, is turning 70. And in the celebratory spirit the started-in-Santa-Monica chain is offering a 70 hot dog on a stick to customers every Tuesday over the course of March. Will you get a bonus Tuesday in which to score this savory, on-a-stick deal? You bet: March is a long month, and with the first day happening on a Tuesday, you can count on a fifth Tuesday bringing up the rear. What kind of hot dog is it? It's a turkey hot dog, so mustard that baby up or leave it neat, but either way you'll be enjoying a famous edible that strollers around Santa Monica Pier have devoured for seven decades. The "Take Me Back Tuesdays" promotion isn't just about nabbing a hot dog for seven dimes; you'll also receive a buy one, get one coupon that's good for your next visit (and it'll work for anything on the menu). Perhaps a hand-stomped lemonade? Memories of Southern California summers usually feature the sunshine-hued beverage. Think back now and determine how many Hot Dog on a Stick lemonades you sipped as a kid (and, of course, as a grown-up). While the restaurants are now all over the place, and employees still rock those tall hats and bright uniforms, it seems like, for the 70th anniversary, heading back to store numero uno is the way to go. If you're near the pier, in Santa Monica, you can't miss it. Or just look for someone noshing something on a stick and ask them to point the way. A group of women are binding together after incomprehensible violence: Sexual assault in the name of war. More than a dozen women were on their way Sunday to leave their mark in a way they never imagined. This group began connecting over a year ago as each one made a vow to attack those who attack women. Kim Yim said there's something spiritual about climbing to the top of a mountain and offering prayers. In this case, the trip to the top will take place on Mount Kilimanjaro. "It's doing something hard and really big in hopes that in some ways it is aligning ourselves with the suffering of the women we're advocating for," Yim, of One Million Thumbprints, said. "In many cases, rape is cheaper than using a bullet so it's a strategy of war. It's a way of undermining a whole community, coming in and systematically raping women and girls." This Orange County mother connected with the story of Esperance: A woman from Congo who was attacked and left for dead. She became the inspiration for this campaign. Esperance asked for help. But she cannot read or write. "It was a blank piece of paper and she had stamped her thumbprint," Belinda Bauman said. Underneath her thumbprint, she had someone else write: "Please tell my story to the world." The campaign is called One Million Thumbprints because of Esperance. The goal is to carry those personal marks to one of the world's highest peaks in a show of solidarity. They hope to raise money for programs to bring peace to war-torn nations like Iraq and Sudan. "For all of us, we all have our mark our identity," Yim said. "We are saying: 'We are human. This is what makes us human, our individual mark.'" More than a dozen women will journey in March speak to the United Nations. They say they will be attempting to hold global leaders accountable to regulations they've already passed protecting women and children in war. The grass roots campaign is spreading. Sex assault survivors from India made bracelets to be given away by the women when they stop in Congo on the way to Africa. The campaign has connected with donors from bake sales to medical offices. Each of the climbers set to tackle Mount Kilimanjaro has a collection of thumbprints to take to the top. They say they hope to leave their mark on the world. To learn more about One Million Thumbprints, visit their site. Numerous calls alerted authorities to a racially-motivated attack involving alleged white supremacy members at a Lake Los Angeles park Sunday. LA County Parks and the Los Angeles County Sheriffs Department responded to Steven Sorensen Park at 1680 E. Avenue just before 4 p.m. for a report of a racially-motivated attack with a deadly weapon. Numerous calls came in saying an alleged white supremacy members were attacking people in the park. The Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department said the attackers were screaming things like "Heil Hitler" and waving around a wallet with a confederate flag. Three people were arrested, and the incident was being investigated as a hate crime, deputies said. No one was seriously injured, according to the LA County Parks Bureau. The incident came a day after three people were stabbed, and others beaten, at a KKK rally in Orange County, which is about 90 miles south of Lake Los Angeles. The Klans members clashed with counter-protesters at the Anaheim rally, resulting in a Klansman stabbing a counter-protester in the chest with an eagle figure at the end of the flag, according to police. Chris Rock, clad in a James Bond-like black-and-white tuxedo, came dressed to kill and with a license to kill Sunday night at the Oscars - or, as he called it, "The White People's Choice Awards." Rock took dead aim at Hollywood's diversity disaster with what amounted to timely and electrifying anti-acceptance speech. The stand-up master, in brash, defiant and often hilarious opening monologue, showed he and movie fans aren't going to stand for Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Science's failure to nominate any actors of color for the second straight year. He grabbed the spotlight and used it to roast his employers for the night, outright declaring Hollywood racist - even if it's not "burning-cross racist" - and calling for more opportunities for people of color. Still, he skewered without skimping on the laughs, sticking it to Hollywood while sticking to his style: smart, common sense observational humor delivered with semi-amused, semi-outraged disbelief. "You realize, if they nominated hosts, I wouldn't even get this job," Rock cracked. The opening set the tone for an ABC Oscars broadcast whose lead-up was dogged by pre-show controversy unprecedented in the awards gala's 87-year history. Some major figures - including honorary Oscar winner Spike Lee, past nominee Will Smith and Jada Pinkett Smith - notched headlines by announcing they would skip the ceremony. They didn't escape Rock's sights, especially Pinkett Smith, who, he noted, is best known for her TV work. "Jada boycotting the Oscars is like me boycotting Rihanna's panties - I wasn't invited," he quipped. Rock agreed it wasn't fair that her husband, "Concussion" star Will Smith, didn't get nominated. "It's also not fair that Will was paid $20 million for 'Wild Wild West,'" Rock said. The comedian put his quest for perspective in far starker terms as he mulled reasons why the Oscars' long history of virtually ignoring black performers didn't generate near as much outrage in decades past. "Why? Because we had real things to protest at the time. We were too busy being raped and lynched to care about who won Best Cinematographer," he said. "When your grandmother's swinging from a tree, it's really hard to care about Best Documentary Foreign Short." But Rock delivered a caustic reminder that times haven't changed enough: "This year in the in-memoriam package, it's just going to be black people that were shot by the cops on their way to the movies." He also got serious when talking about being one of about four African Americans at Hollywood fundraiser for President Obama. "I'm like, 'Mr. President, you see all these writers, producers and actors? They don't hire black people - and they're the nicest white people on Earth. They're liberals.'" The lack-of-diversity theme played out beyond the Dolby Theatre stage, via some amusing filmed bits, including one in which black performers were inserted into some 2015 movies. Past Oscar winner Whoopi Goldberg pushed a mop in "Joy," while Tracy Morgan donned a dress to take on the title role in "The Danish Girl." Leslie Jones mauled Leonardo DiCaprio in "The Revenant" and Rock portrayed an astronaut NASA wouldn't pay to bring home in "The Martian." Past Oscar nominee Angela Bassett deadpanned her way through a Black History Month salute to Jack Black. Rock, reviving a segment he did during first Oscars stint in 2005, went to a theater and talked to movie fans straight out of Compton. "Where are you getting these movies from?" replied one woman after Rock asked whether she had seen Best Picture nominees "Spotlight," "Brooklyn" and "Bridge of Spies." Judging from the reaction of the star-filled audience at the Dolby Theatre, the predominantly white group largely appeared to appreciate Rock's performance - a far cry from 11 years ago, when his jokes painting Tobey Maguire and Jude Law as big-screen lightweights offended some well-paid thespians. The stakes were clearly much higher this time around - for Rock and for Hollywood. Unlike the Academy, Chris Rock came through Sunday night. He put on a show that Oscar viewers - and voters - won't soon forget. Even as the laughter fades, the message appeared poised to resonate. Jere Hester is Director of News Products and Projects at the City University of New York Graduate School of Journalism. He is also the author of "Raising a Beatle Baby: How John, Paul, George and Ringo Helped us Come Together as a Family." Follow him on Twitter. A cease-fire brokered by the United States and Russia went into effect across Syria on Saturday, marking the biggest international push to reduce violence in the country's devastating conflict, but the Islamic State group and al-Qaida's branch in Syria, the Nusra Front, were excluded. The cease-fire aims to bring representatives of the Syrian government and the opposition back to the negotiating table in Geneva for talks on a political transition. The U.N.'s envoy, Staffan de Mistura, announced that peace talks would resume on March 7 if the cessation of hostilities "largely holds." If it does, it would be the first time international negotiations have brought any degree of quiet in Syria's five-year civil war. But success requires adherence by multiple armed factions and the truce is made more fragile because it allows fighting to continue against the Islamic State group and Nusra Front, which could easily re-ignite broader warfare. The Syrian government and the opposition, including nearly 100 rebel groups, have said they will abide by the cease-fire despite serious skepticism about chances for success. Speaking to reporters in Geneva after the truce took hold at midnight, de Mistura said initial reports indicated that within minutes both Damascus and the nearby rebel-held town of Daraya suddenly "had calmed down." He said there was a report of one "incident" that his team was investigating but did not give details. Opposition activists on the ground also reported early adherence to the truce. Mazen al-Shami, an activist near Damascus, said an opposition-held eastern suburb of the capital known as Eastern Ghouta was "quiet for the first time in years." The Ghouta region, which includes the sprawling suburb of Douma, has been the scene of intense fighting during Syria's conflict. An Associated Press crew in Damascus said the sounds of explosions stopped three minutes before midnight. An Aleppo-based opposition media collective, Aleppo24, said Russian warplanes left Aleppo skies at 12:19 a.m. There were also some reports of violations, which could not be independently confirmed, but they appeared to be relatively limited. Opposition activist Mohammed al-Sibai, who is based in the central province of Homs, told the AP that the cease-fire was violated 15 minutes after it went into effect in the town of Talbiseh, which was being subjected to shelling by government artillery based around the town. However, he said things later quieted down. Significantly, there were no immediate reports of any airstrikes. Ahmad al-Masalmeh, an opposition activist in Daraa in the country's south said intense fighting suddenly stopped at midnight when the cease-fire went into effect. "In the first half hour of the cease-fire the situation is relatively calm but tense," al-Masalmeh said via Skype. He later said Syrian troops fired tank shells at the village of Lajat in Daraa province, wounding two people. "This is a regime that cannot be trusted," al-Masalmeh said. The Local Coordination Committees, an umbrella opposition activist group, also reported that Syrian troops violated the truce in Daraa. Less than an hour before the truce was set to begin, the 15-member Security Council unanimously endorsed the agreement worked out between the United States and Russia. De Mistura told the Security Council via video conference from Geneva that he hoped the cease-fire would provide a chance for humanitarian aid to reach those battered by Syria's brutal war and allow for a political solution. He later told a news conference that operation centers in Moscow, Washington, Amman, Geneva and the northwestern Syrian city of Latakia were collecting information on any truce violations and would share them with the United States and Russia, which are responsible for addressing the incidents. White House spokesman Josh Earnest said the U.S. didn't expect to be able to judge the cease-fire's success or failure within the first days or even weeks. "We do anticipate we're going to encounter some speed bumps along the way," Earnest said. "There will be violations." On Friday, hours before the cease-fire came into effect, warplanes unleashed airstrikes against rebel-held positions in the suburbs of the Syrian capital and near the northern city of Aleppo. The last barrages came as the main Syrian opposition and rebel umbrella group said dozens of factions 97 groups in all had agreed to abide by the truce. The High Negotiations Committee, or HNC, said a military committee has been formed to follow up on adherence. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the warplanes in Friday's strikes were believed to be Russian. The Kremlin did not comment on that report but denied allegations that the Russian air force bombed civilian positions east of Damascus the previous day. The rebel-held Damascus suburb of Douma was hit 40 times on Friday, the Observatory said, along with other areas east of the capital, killing at least eight people, including three women and four children. Al-Shami, the activist based in the area, said the warplanes were Russian, adding that they carried out some 60 air raids. He said 25 strikes targeted Douma. "The air raids intensified after the revolutionary factions said they will abide by the cease-fire," al-Shami said via Skype. Stephane Dujarric, the spokesman for the U.N. secretary-general, told reporters in New York that the increase of military activity was "tragic but unfortunately not surprising." Late Thursday, U.S. President Barack Obama expressed hope that the cease-fire would lead to a political settlement to end the civil war and allow a more intense focus on battling the Islamic State group. He said he doesn't expect the truce to immediately end hostilities after years of bloodshed between forces loyal to Syrian President Bashar Assad and rebels who want to end his reign. Announced just this week, the cease-fire is a "test" of whether the parties are committed to broader negotiations over a political transition, a new constitution and holding free elections, Obama said. He said Syria's future cannot include Assad as president, which is a chief point of contention with Russia and Iran, who support the Syrian leader. "We are certain that there will continue to be fighting," Obama said, noting that IS, the Nusra Front and other militant groups are not part of the negotiations and the truce. Obama put the onus on Russia and its allies including the Assad government to live up to their commitments under the agreement. The elusive cease-fire deal was reached only after a monthslong Russian air campaign that the U.S. says strengthened Assad's hand and allowed his forces to retake territory, altering the balance of power in the Syrian civil war. "The world will be watching," Obama said. Speaking to reporters in Washington on Friday, State Department spokesman Mark Toner called it "put up or shut up" time for Russia to prove its seriousness about ending the fighting and starting a political transition by adhering to its pledge not to target "groups that we consider the moderate opposition." In Moscow, Russian President Vladimir Putin said his country will keep hitting "terrorist organizations" in Syria even after the truce is implemented. The opposition umbrella, HNC, said in a statement that the Syrian "regime and its allies should not exploit the (truce) and continue with their hostilities against opposition factions under the pretext of fighting terrorists." More than 100 patrol cars lined the roads outside Inova Fairfax Hospital in Northern Virginia early Sunday morning to stand vigil and provide escort to the medical examiner for the body of a slain Prince William County police officer. Prince William County PD Prince William County police say Officer Ashley Guindon, 28, was shot and killed Saturday responding to a domestic violence call in Woodbridge, Virginia. A woman was also killed and two other officers were injured in the shooting. It is a sad day for everyone in this room. A sad day for law enforcement, Prince William County police Chief Stephan Hudson said during a news conference Sunday. We extend our condolences to Ashleys mother and extended family. Hudson said the woman killed in the domestic dispute was Crystal Hamilton, the wife of the alleged shooter, identified as 32-year-old Ronald Hamilton. He said she was apparently shot and killed before the officers arrived. Hamilton is being held without bond in the Prince William County Adult Detention Center on charges that include murder of a law enforcement officer. He is an active duty Army staff sergeant assigned to the Joint Staff Support Center at the Pentagon, according to Cindy Your, a Defense Information Systems Agency spokeswoman based at Fort Meade, Maryland. The two injured officers were identified as Officer David McKeown, 33, and Officer Jesse Hempen, 31. They are currently being treated at INOVA Hospital, and Hudson said both have a long road ahead for their recovery. Prince William County Police Department According to Hudson, Guindon went through training with the department last year before leaving for personal reasons. She rejoined the department this year and had been sworn in as an officer on Friday. She was on her first shift Saturday when she was shot. "We were struck by her passion to do this job," Hudson said. "She did share with us when we rehired her that she felt like she wanted to do this job. She couldn't get it out of her blood." Hudson thanked the community and surrounding jurisdictions for their support. He said the Prince William County Police Department was in very deep mourning over the loss of Guindon. According to a police press release from June 2015 when Guindon graduated from basic recruit school, she was a graduate of Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla. She served in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve and has family in law enforcement, the press release said. The principal of Merrimack High School said a moment of silence will be held in honor of Guindon, qho was a 2005 graduate of the high school. Principal Ken Johnson said in a letter to the school board and staff that he had "sad and tragic news, the loss of a student." The shooting happened around 5:30 p.m. in the 13000 block of Lashmere Court in Woodbridge, Virginia. Neighbors reported hearing several rapid gunshots ring out as young people played outside. "We heard three to four gunshots, so we started running, and then when we got up here we saw all the cops," said one young witness, who asked not to be identified. "They told us to go inside." "I can't believe this is my neighborhood," said neighbor Saher Jan. "I was just in front of that house. I just couldn't imagine that it happened right there. They seemed like nice people." Prince William County Officer killed on her first day on the job. News4s Darcy Spencer reports. Hudson said the officers were fired upon after responding to a domestic disturbance call. He said after other officers arrived, Hamilton surrendered to police. The three officers who were shot were transported to INOVA Hospital. Hudson said Guindon passed away during treatment. Officers found the body of Crystal Hamilton inside the home, Hudson said, adding that law enforcement officials also found an 11-year-old boy inside. He was unharmed. As Guindon was sworn in on Friday, Prince William County police tweeted a message of welcome to her and another new officer. Featuring a photo of the two rookies in uniform, the tweet read, "Be safe!" Welcome Officers Steven Kendall & Ashley Guindon who were sworn in today & begin their shifts this weekend.Be safe! pic.twitter.com/92c2YLjcQx Prince William PD (@PWCPolice) February 26, 2016 On Sunday, the department tweeted a photo of Guidon's police cruiser embellished with bows and a wreath. The caption read: "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God. #RIPAshleyGuindon." "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God". #RIPAshleyGuindon pic.twitter.com/AyG7NmYDNt Prince William PD (@PWCPolice) February 28, 2016 The death of Ashley Guindon was just the latest tragedy to strike the family. Her father, David, committed suicide upon returning from Iraq, where he served with the New Hampshire Air National Guard. "He came home and took his own life," said Dorothy Guindon, Ashley's grandmother. She said Ashley was born in Springfield, Massachusetts. The family later moved to Merrimack, New Hampshire. "This is really a shock to us," Dorothy Guindon said. "Ashley was such a nice person." Wildlife officials are calling Florida's annual public python hunt a huge success with 106 snakes removed from Everglades National Park. Top "2016 Python Challenge" prizes went to a team led by team captain Bill Booth. Booth's team took the top spot for most pythons caught by a single team with 33 pythons. Their team received a grand prize of $5,000. His team also took home top honors for catching the longest python - a 15 footer - for which they won a $3,000 cash prize. In the individual category, Daniel Moniz won $3,500 for catching the most pythons by an individual at 13 snakes caught. Moniz also won $1,000 for the longest python caught by an individual - a 13-foot, 8.7-inch long snake. More than 1,000 people from 29 states registered to take part in the month-long competition to remove Burmese pythons from the Everglades ecosystem. Keith Jones has a painful encounter with a python as he finds out what hunters will need to do before the 2016 Python Challenge in Florida. We are pleased with the success of this years Python Challenge, said FWC Commissioner Ron Bergeron in a statement. Each python that is removed makes a difference for our native wildlife, and the increased public awareness will help us keep people involved as we continue managing invasive species in Florida. All participants had to first complete an online training module, and more than 500 people attended in-person training's where they learned how to identify, locate and safely and humanely catch the pythons. NBC 6 anchor Keith Jones went through the training and walked away with a few battle scars after a 9-foot python caught him mid-capture, sinking his fangs into Jones' hand. When asked if it hurt, Jones replied "not at all" as he continued to bag the snake. NBC 6 anchor Keith Jones is bitten by a Burmese python while taking part in training for the 2016 Python Challenge. There are no known native predators to the Burmese python, which contributes to an imbalance in the ecosystem in the Florida Everglades. The snakes are known to prey on other native species, including snakes, birds, reptiles and mammals. All pythons turned in at Python Challenge drop off locations were humanely killed if brought in alive, according to Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission spokeswoman Carli Segelson. Competition rules instructed participants on how to humanely transport the snakes. Scientists will study the carcasses of the pythons for research. For more information, visit the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. North Korea presented a detained American student before the media on Monday in Pyongyang, where he tearfully apologized for attempting to steal a political banner at the behest, he said, of a member of a church back home who wanted it as a "trophy" from a staff-only section of the hotel where he had been staying. North Korea announced in late January it had arrested Otto Warmbier, a 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. It said that after entering the country as a tourist he committed an anti-state crime with "the tacit connivance of the U.S. government and under its manipulation." No details of what kind of charges or punishment Warmbier faces were immediately released. According to Warmbier's statement Monday, he wanted the banner with a political slogan on it as a trophy for the church member, who was the mother of a friend. In previous cases, people who have been detained in North Korea and given a public confession often recant those admissions after their release. He was arrested while visiting the country with Young Pioneer Tours, an agency specializing in travel to the North, which is strongly discouraged by the U.S. State Department. He had been staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, which is located on an island in a river that runs through Pyongyang. It is common for sections of tourist hotels to be reserved for North Korean staff and off-limits to foreigners. Warmbier is a native of Ohio and Ohio Gov. John Kasich, while campaigning in New Hampshire as a Republican presidential candidate, called the arrest "inexcusable." Kasich has urged President Barack Obama to "make every effort to secure Mr. Warmbier's immediate release and keep (his) family constantly apprised." Kasich said North Korea should either provide evidence of the alleged anti-state activities or release Warmbier. In his comments, Warmbier said he was offered a used car worth $10,000 by a member of the church. He said the church member told him the slogan would be hung on its wall as a trophy. He also said he was told that if he was detained and not returned, $200,000 would be paid to his mother in a way of charitable donations. Calls to the Friendship United Methodist Church went unanswered Monday. Warmbier named that as the church his acquaintance belonged to and there is church of that name in his hometown, Wyoming, Ohio. He said he was also encouraged in his act by the "Z Society" at the University of Virginia, which he said he was trying to join. The magazine of the university's alumni association describes the Z Society as a "semi-secret ring society" that was founded in 1892 and conducts philanthropy, puts on honorary dinners and grants academic awards. Warmbier said he accepted the offer of money because his family is "suffering from very severe financial difficulties." "I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money," he said, adding that if he ever mentioned the involvement of the church, "no payments would come." North Korea regularly accuses Washington and Seoul of sending spies to overthrow its government to enable the U.S.-backed South Korean government to control the Korean Peninsula. U.S. tourism to North Korea is legal and virtually all Americans who make the journey return home without incident. Even so, the State Department has repeatedly warned against travel to the North. Visitors, especially those from America, who break the country's sometimes murky rules risk detention, arrest and possible jail sentences. Young Pioneer describes itself on its website as providing "budget tours to destinations your mother would rather you stayed away from." The agency, based in China, also has tours to Iran, Cuba, Turkmenistan, Iraq and other former Soviet countries. After Warmbier's detention, it stressed in a news release that he was the first of the 7,000 people it has taken to North Korea over the past eight years to face arrest. "Despite what you may hear, North Korea is probably one of the safest places on Earth to visit," it says on its website. In the past, North Korea has held out until senior U.S. officials or statesmen came to personally bail out detainees, all the way up to former President Bill Clinton, whose visit in 2009 secured the freedom of American journalists Euna Lee and Laura Ling. Both had crossed North Korea's border from China illegally. It took a visit in November 2014 by U.S. spy chief James Clapper to bring home Matthew Miller, who had ripped up his visa when entering the country, and Korean-American missionary Kenneth Bae, who had been incarcerated since November 2012. Jeffrey Fowle, another U.S. tourist from Ohio detained for six months at about the same time as Miller, was released just before that and sent home on a U.S. government plane. He left a Bible in a local club hoping a North Korean would find it, which is considered a criminal offense in North Korea. ___ Talmadge, the AP's Pyongyang bureau chief, reported from Tokyo. An Arizona woman was in San Diego over the weekend searching for her daughter who was last heard from a week ago. Two individual missing person reports were filed with San Diego Police Saturday by family members of Taylor Shiflet and Matthew Gray. By 3 p.m. Tuesday, her mother said Shiflet called her and told her she is safe. Further details weren't immediately released. The young couple left Phoenix on Feb. 21 for job interviews in San Diego, according to family members. They were supposed to return on Feb. 24 but didnt arrive, the family said. Chris Shiflet, Taylors mother, said they were supposed to stay at the Days Inn and Suites on Rosecrans Street but could not check in without a credit card. According to Chris, the hotel clerk at the Days Inn and Suites is the last person to see Taylor. San Diego Police say Gray was arrested two days later accused of prowling and trespassing in the Hillcrest area. Officers say they believe Gray was casing a home to burglarize when he was taken into custody. Gray was taken to County Mental Health where he was cleared to be taken to the county jail. According to SDPD officials, Gray was released on his own recognizance. So Chris and a friend flew to San Diego and posted flyers along the coast near beaches and parks. The father of a 16-year-old student shot with a Taser while police were breaking up a fight at Lincoln High School on Friday said his son was actually walking away from the commotion when he was struck. "Out of nowhere here comes this police officer that my son I guess they were kind of having words throughout the whole week just this targets my child," Brandon Duncan told NBC 7 of his son, Jesse, whom he met at juvenile hall Sunday morning. Cellphone video from the ACLU shows what they say is that officer deploying a Taser on 16-year-old Jesse Duncan. "He could have simply stopped the child or you know restrained the child and that would have been that, but for you to pull your Taser out, shoot a child and continue shooting him when he's down on the ground obviously no threat to anybody to no one, you should be fired!" Brandon Duncan added. During the "play fight," which quickly escalated into a brawl, six people were taken to the hospital: a police officer and five students. NBC7 confirmed the identity of the injured officer as Bashir Abdi who has worked for San Diego Unified School district for several years. SD Unified says the officer was struck from behind and suffered injuries to his head. "He is the father of two young daughters and we certainly pray for a full and rapid recovery," SDUSD Superintendent Cindy Marten said. District officials confirmed Abdi was discharged from the hospital today and will be placed on administrative duty. The District released a statement saying, in part: The safety and well-being of our students and staff are our top priority. We are cooperating fully with the San Diego Police Department as they thoroughly investigate the incident." Jesse Duncan faces charges of resisting arrest and assault of an officer. The school plans to hold an assembly Monday in response to the fight. Brandon Duncan said he plans to be there. Superintendent Marten said surveillance video of the fight should be released sometime next week. President Barack Obama Monday awarded the nation's highest military honor to a Navy SEAL who participated in a daring 2012 raid that rescued an American hostage in Afghanistan. Senior Chief Special Warfare Operator Edward Byers, Jr., 36, is the first living, active duty member of the Navy to receive the award in four decades. Obama said Byers is the "consummate, quiet professional" who would rather be elsewhere. But he said the ceremony gives Americans the chance to get a glimpse of a special breed of warrior who so often serves in the shadows. The rescue was undertaken by members of the Navy's famed SEAL Team 6. Byers was the second Navy SEAL to enter the building containing the hostage. Fellow SEAL Team Six member Nicolas Checque, who is also hailed as a hero, was the first in the door of the compound where the hostage was being held. The 28-year-old was fatally shot in the head. Byers will be the 11th living service member to be honored with the award. Byers was born in Toledo, Ohio. He graduated from BUD/S class 242 in Coronado, and has served on various East Coast teams. He has completed eight overseas deployments with seven combat tours. Chief Byers' awards and decorations include five awards of the Bronze Star Medal with Combat V device, two awards of the Purple Heart, the Joint Service Commendation Medal with Valor device, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat V device, two additional awards of the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, two awards of the Combat Action Ribbon, three Presidential Unit Citations, two Joint Meritorious Unit Awards, two Navy Unit Commendations, and five Good Conduct Medals. Republican presidential front-runner Donald Trump is playing defense on at least one issue these days: his role in a now-defunct real estate seminar business called Trump University. At a rally in Arkansas on Saturday, Trump took a break from his stump speech to downplay a class-action civil lawsuit pending against the business, which was founded by Trump and offered students instruction on real estate investments. "It's a small deal, very small," Trump said of the suit, which could force him to take the stand this summer. Trump specifically railed against the judge in the case, and at one point noted the judge's Hispanic ethnicity. Trump claimed the case should have been thrown out years ago, "but because it was me and because there's a hostility toward me by the judge - tremendous hostility - beyond belief." He then noted, as an aside: "I believe he happens to be Spanish, which is fine. He's Hispanic which is fine." A message left for the judge, U.S. District Judge Gonzalo Curiel, was not immediately returned. Curiel is a judge in the Southern District of California and based in San Diego. New York Attorney General Eric Schneiderman, whose office has filed a separate civil $40 million complaint against Trump University in state court, accused Trump of "racial demagoguery." Schneiderman sued Trump University in 2013 alleging it committed fraud and fleeced 5,000 people out of millions of dollars. "I will not engage in a debate about ongoing litigation," Schneiderman said in a statement issued after Trump made his comments. "But there is no place in this process for racial demagoguery directed at respected members of the judiciary." Schneiderman noted that New York's state Supreme Court ruled that Trump University operated illegally in New York as an unlicensed educational institution. Trump University emerged as a campaign issue at Thursday's GOP debate, raised by Florida Sen. Marco Rubio. "There are people who borrowed $36,000 to go to Trump University, and they're suing now $36,000 to go to a university that's a fake school," Rubio said. "And you know what they got? They got to take a picture with a cardboard cutout of Donald Trump." Texas Sen. Ted Cruz jumped in, adding: "It's a fraud case. ... I want you to think about, if this man is the nominee, having the Republican nominee on the stand in court, being cross-examined about whether he committed fraud." Schneiderman's suit alleges that Trump University falsely promoted itself as an educational institution even after the state education department warned it to stop. The complaint accuses Trump of falsely promising that Trump University students would receive intense training from experts hand-picked by Trump himself. During breaks in the seminars, Schneiderman's complaint alleges, participants were urged to call their credit card companies and ask to increase their credit limits. Once the credit lines were secured, Trump University staff tried to persuade students to pay for additional services. Separate from Schneiderman's complaint, Trump University students have sued. According to the California class-action complaint in front of Curiel, a one-year apprenticeship that Trump University students were promised ended after students paid for a three-day seminar. Attendees who were promised a personal photo with Trump received only the chance to take a photo with a cardboard cutout. And many instructors were bankrupt real estate investors. Trump, at the rally, dismissed the cases as the work of "a sleazebag law firm" and suggested that Schneiderman's intervention was politically motivated. "I could've settled this suit numerous times. Could settle it now. But I don't like settling suits," Trump said. Surveillance video taken in a D.C. hotel last month shows a young girl believed to be a missing 8-year-old -- and it shows the man police say is accompanying her. News4 obtained the video that shows a young girl walking down the hotel hallway with a man. Police believe the girl is Relisha Rudd, who has been sought since a March 20 Amber Alert was issued. And, they believe, the man walking with her is 51-year-old Kahlil Tatum, whom police believe is still with Relisha. Police say Relisha was last seen Feb. 26 at the D.C. Shelter for Families on the grounds of the old D.C. General Hospital in Southeast where she and her mother lived. Kahlil Tatum worked as a janitor at the shelter. The surveillance video was taken at a D.C. hotel just after 7 p.m. on the same day. Last week, police announced they have an arrest warrant for Tatum in the shooting death of his wife, Andrea Tatum. Her body was found last Thursday, as Prince George's County Police searched an Oxon Hill Red Roof Inn for Relisha. Kahlil Tatum's SUV was found parked outside the hotel, with no sign of Relisha. Court documents show Kahlil Tatum and his wife filed for divorce in early February. At a press conference Monday, D.C. Police Chief Cathy Lanier released new photos of both Relisha and Tatum, and spoke briefly about the search. She said the Amber Alert had been issued in states from Pennsylvania to Florida, and that there is a "significant team of officers actively investigating" the case. Kahlil Tatum's new photo clearly shows one identifying feature: a tattoo of an Egyptian cross and at least four smaller designs next to it. Police urged anyone with information to come forward to local or D.C. law enforcement. After a last-minute blitz of campaign rallies and political advertising, Virginians are set to head to the polls Tuesday to help pick the Republican and Democratic nominees for president. Virginia is one of a dozen Super Tuesday contests, whose outcomes could go a long way in determining each party's eventual winner. The limited polling available in Virginia shows Donald Trump ahead in the Republican primary and Hillary Clinton leading in the Democratic race. Republicans will vote in 11 states, with 595 delegates at stake. In Virginia, there are 49 GOP delegates up for grabs Tuesday. Democrats will vote in 11 states and American Samoa, with 865 delegates up for grabs. Virginia has 95 delegates available on primary day. Delegates for both parties will be awarded proportionally. Whoever wins Virginia is also likely to bolster their case that they can do well in the general election, as the Old Dominion has a diverse electorate and is expected to be a pivotal swing state. "Virginia is America in miniature,'' said Stephen Farnsworth, a political science professor at the University of Mary Washington in Fredericksburg. "A win here means more than a win in a lot of other states.'' Virtually every candidate in both parties made at least one stop in Virginia in the run-up to the primary. Republican Marco Rubio held a four-stop tour around the state on Sunday, and has recently consolidated a large amount of the state GOP establishment's support. Trump was at Virginia Beach's Regent University last week and will hold a rally Monday evening at Radford University in southwest Virginia, home to a large number of blue-collar voters more likely to support him. Clinton is scheduled to speak Monday in northern Virginia, home to wealthier, more liberal voters, and in Hampton Roads, which has a high concentration of African-American voters. The Clinton campaign has focused on courting black voters in Virginia, lining up support from most African-American state lawmakers. And Gov. Terry McAuliffe is a longtime family friend and confidante. The Sanders campaign has shown momentum in Virginia. A rally he held in Norfolk drew thousands. Rubio and a super PAC supporting him have recently purchased more than $400,000 of airtime in Virginia's four biggest TV markets, according to the nonprofit Virginia Public Access Project. Clinton's campaign has bought more than $360,000. Trump has made small TV ad buys around the state. A super PAC devoted to attacking Trump announced Friday that it is running radio ads attacking him in parts of central Virginia. A few weeks ago, my husband Eric Sadiwnyk got quite the surprise on our returning flight from Las Vegas. There aren't... Posted by Lisa Sadiwnyk on Friday, February 26, 2016 (function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/sdk.js#xfbml=1&version=v2.3"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs);}(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk')); Eric Sadiwnyk heard the news of his life on a flight back to his Pennsylvania home from Las Vegas a few weeks ago. While preparing for takeoff, the pilot made an announcement: Can I have your attention, please? We're about to do something special. The pilot continued with a big surprise. "Well Eric, although you didnt strike it rich here in Las Vegas, you did hit the jackpot. Congratulationsyoure about to be a dad. The entire plane erupted in applause, congratulations and calls for a speech. I was shocked, I was excited, I had no idea what was going on, said Sadiwnyk, of Fairless Hills. His wife, Lisa, began planning for the surprise in the days leading up to their trip. You see all these videos on the Internet and YouTube, and we had been trying to get pregnant so I just wanted to plan something fun," she said. "I took a test a few days before we left- I got everything ready before the flight and printed the note for the pilot, just in case. I took the test on Monday before we left and then I knew! Lisa stealthily planned the surprise when the couple arrived at the airport. I was really nervous because I had known for two-and-a-half days without telling him," she said. "In the airport, I told him I was going to find some snacks and approached the first two American Airlines employees I could find. I asked if they were going to Philadelphiaand they were a little weary, which made sensebut once I told them what I wanted to do, they were more than happy to help. The flight attendant told me to hand her the paper when I got on the plane, pretending like it was trash, and she would give it to the pilot. This is the couples first child and they were extremely excited to share the news with their families when they arrived home. We gave our parents mugs with baby onesies inside and then showed them the video afterwards," Lisa said. "It's been torture keeping it a secret but now that our friends and family know and I'm now 10 weeks we decided to share! Lisa wanted to share a message with all of the American Airlines employees who helped make this happen. I just want to give everyone a huge thank you!" she said. "Its exciting news to share and I was trying to think what would be the best and most fun way to shareI dont get to surprise my husband very often. They made it an awesome experience and it was perfect. Enfield Police have arrested a man for attacking another man with a machete. East Windsor police were called to the Liedertafel Singing Society-German Club on Depot St. When they arrived, they learned that a man that had caused an altercation had fled the scene, possibly to Enfield. An investigation revealed that Zchacorey Pouncey was locked out of the bar due to his erratic behavior. Pouncey reportedly took out a machete and broke glass at the building. Pouncey left the scene and got into a second altercation in Enfield armed with his machete at 339 Abbe Road . When police arrived in Enfield, they found a 36-year-old male with deep cuts to his hands.They say those cuts were caused by a machete yielded Pouncey, who also had a cut on his head. I got a phone call about 11:30 from my roommate saying there was someone bleeding all over the place on our porch," said David Crawford, who lives on Abbe Rd. "His hands were all messed up and bloody. He said his pants were covered in blood. He looked like he had a head wound also. Pouncey, of Broad Brook, was taken to the hospital and placed under arrest. He is charged with carrying a dangerous weapon, second degree assault and breach of peace. Pouncey has a police record dating back to 2006, including previous convictions for assault and breach of peace. East Windsor Police are asking for the public's help in locating a mother and her son that have been not been heard from since Saturday night. Police say that Alexandria Smith and her one-year-old son Logan were last seen when she took a cab to Union Station in Hartford from the Mill Pond Village Apartment Complex in Broad Brook Saturday night. Police say that she took the cab under a false name. Police are concerned for Alexandria's welfare though they believe she left on her own accord. They say she left her apartment with no clothing for her and Logan and no money of transportation. Family have told police that Alexandria does not know anyone in the area and may be suffering from depression. Alexandria was scheduled to be in New York with her mother, but never arrived and her mother has not heard from her. If anyone has any information on their whereabouts, they are asked to notify East Windsor Police at 860-292-8240 A group of Merrimack, New Hampshire Police Officers are on their way to Virginia to attend the memorial services for 2005 Merrimack High School graduate, Officer Ashley Guindon. Meanwhile, the purple and black bunting hangs at the entrance to the police department indicating that hearts are heavy in this community. "For us it's the least we could do," said Lt. Denise Roy. "We're hoping that her family will see that she matters, her life matters, she didn't die in vain." Officer Guindon was shot and killed on her first day as a Prince WIlliam County Police Officer in Virginia. [[229114431,C]] "Hours after she took that oath to protect and serve, she is struck down in the prime of her life at the onset of her career," said Merrimack Chief Mark Doyle. "It brings back I think and puts into perspective what our officers do everyday." Guindon was born in West Springfield, Massachusetts where her grandmother still lives. Dorothy Guindon talked with us over the phone Monday morning. "Her father was military, so she joined the military herself. She was in the Marines. She enjoyed life and that's really all I can tell you," Dorothy Guindon told NECN. Guindon's father died when she was in high school. Her former principal Kenneth Johnson remembers the heart ache. "I feel for her mother and extended family for they have experienced more tragedy than any family should," he said. Johnson led a moment of silence on Monday as faculty, staff, and students remember the smiling face in the 2005 yearbook. Under her photo, Guindon wrote, "Live for something rather than die for nothing." "It's very surreal," Lt. Roy said. "You read what she wrote and it's almost like did she know? That she had to do something with her life, because you cannot take one moment for granted." Memorial services are open to the public in Woodbridge, Virginia starting at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Guindon's grandmother says her remains will be escorted back to West Springfield where she will be laid to rest next to her father. From Chris Rock's opening monologue to Leonardo DiCaprio finally winning an Oscar, there was no short of great moments during last night's Oscars Ceremony. Many New Englanders took to Twitter to voice their opinions about the ceremony. Here are some of the top moments and reactions: Chris Rock's Opening Monologue addresses the #OscarsSoWhite controversy: The exact kind of honesty this show needed. Damn... Well done @chrisrock. #Oscars Casey Hogan (@hogan) February 29, 2016 Chris Rock supporting his Girl Scout daughters by encouraging attendees to purchase boxes of cookies: the fact that Chris Rock used the Oscars to get every celebrity to buy GS cookies for his daughters' troops is gr8, & I'd do the same tbh lex (@AlexaSpina) February 29, 2016 Mad Max: Fury Road winning the most Oscars of the night with six total: "Two things you need to know about me. My name is Max. And I'm extremely mad." -Mad Max: Fury Road Chris Scott (@iamchrisscott) February 29, 2016 Lady Gaga's performance of "Til It Happens to You" and Vice President Joe Biden's introductory speech: The most powerful moment of the night, led by @ladygaga and brave individuals on that stage. #Oscars2016 Eric Crumrine (@ECrumrine) February 29, 2016 Leonardo DiCaprio winning the Oscar for "Best Actor" after being nominated 6 times: https://twitter.com/tmcgrath1598/status/704265505167831040 Spotlight winning the Oscar for "Best Picture": https://twitter.com/Marc_Bertrand/status/704170352558084097 So what were some of your favorite moments? Andy Sexton, CEO of the Matthew Project, introduces a series of tributes from the charity to its founder, Peter Farley. Andy Sexton, CEO of the Matthew Project, introduces a series of tributes from the charity to its founder, Peter Farley. Cliff look alike at Cromer Church breakfast Cliff Richard tribute performer Will Chandler will be the speaker at a special Mens Breakfast at Cromer Parish Hall next month, and all men are welcome to come along. Read more Heartsease Lane Methodist church to close As part of a reorganisation of the Norwich Methodist Circuit, Heartsease Lane Methodist Church will be closing towards the end of the year. Read more Free Julian of Norwich reflection and prayer day The Friends of Julian of Norwich present a free Quiet Half-Day with Robert Fruehwirth, author and former Priest Director of the Julian Centre, on Saturday November 12, 10.30am-2pm. Read more What it means for us to repent Nigel Fox believes that now is the time for a tide of repentance, and shares his thoughts about what that actually means for our society. Read more Christmas card shop opens in Norwich church Thousands of Christmas cards from around 30 local Norfolk charities have gone on sale today (October 19) at the Original Norwich Charity Christmas Card Shop inside St Peter Mancroft church in Norwich city centre. Read more Revelation Christian Resource Centre and Cafe Revelation in Norwich is a Christian resource centre, offering a bookshop, a meeting place and a welcoming refuge for refreshment open to visitors of any faith or none. Read more Farewell as Yarmouth church leader moves on Captain Marie Burr, the Salvation Army leader in Great Yarmouth, has paid tribute to everyone at the church and charity after she left her post at the end of last month to move to a new role. Read more Norwich Cathedral chorister in BBC final Norwich Cathedral chorister Alice Platten has her sights set on being crowned BBC Young Chorister of the Year after reaching the final stages of the prestigious nationwide competition. Read more Norwich to hear pastor, Policeman and tramp tale Essex Baptist Pastor Dave McDowell has been a Policeman, fed orphans in India and lived under a boat as a tramp. He will tell his remarkable story at the October dinner of Norwich FGB on Wednesday October 26. Read more Pioneer UK leader speaks at Sheringham church Ness Wilson, national leader of the Pioneer network of churches, was the main speaker at a day of teaching and worship held at Lighthouse Community Church in Sheringham on 12 October, to be followed up by Word and Worship sessions at October half term. Read more Norwich event to give tips on bouncing forwards St Stephens in Norwich will be hosting an evening in October with Patrick Regan OBE, as he explores themes from his book Bouncing Forwards. Read more Youth for Christ lights a fire in north Breckland North Breckland Youth for Christ will be putting on a mini residential camp this year to coincide with Bonfire Night. Read more Delia Smith interviewed at Norwich church Top TV cook and well-known writer Delia Smith spoke about her faith at SOUL Churchs weekly Chapel gathering on October 11. Read more Children's Christian holiday club in Briston A half term childrens holiday bible club is taking place in Briston next week, and there is no charge to take part in the fun. Read more Ashill church puts on music to touch the soul The Fountain of Life Church in Ashill is hosting an afternoon concert in early November with classical, jazz, opera, ballads and pop classics. Read more Fakenhams new rector is officially installed Rev Tracy Jessop has been officially installed as Rector for Fakenham during a service at Fakenham Parish Church on Tuesday September 27, fourteen months after their last reverend retired. Read more Norwich homeless charity holds information evening Homelessness charity St Martins is holding an information evening on Thursday 3rd November at The Forum in Norwich for anyone who would like to know more about the work of the charity and to potentially become a volunteer. Read more At a congressional hearing today on the H-1B visa's impact on high-skilled workers, the first person to testify was Leo Perrero, a former Disney IT worker. He was overcome with emotion for parts of it, pausing to gather himself as he told the story of how he was replaced by a foreign visa holder. It was a hearing with an emotional punch. Perrero testified after Immigration Subcommittee Chairman Jeff Sessions (R-Ala.) displayed a giant photo of small American flags, which were flown indoors by IT workers at Northeast Utilities (now Eversource Energy). Eversource Energy IT workers "were forced to train their foreign replacements -- and this was done, apparently," within the current law, said Sessions. The photo, which was first published in Computerworld, was sent to the committee by a former IT worker at Eversource. The employee was not identified because of legal restrictions in the person's severance agreement. The only way the employees "could make a statement was by placing small American flags outside of cubicles," said Sessions. As the IT workers were replaced, Sessions reported, the employee said " 'the flags disappeared just as we did.' " For his part, Perrero wanted lawmakers to understand how utterly shocked he was. He detailed his good reviews while at Disney. He felt secure in his accomplishments. An internal meeting was called and Perrero gathered with co-workers, expecting good news of some sort. Instead, they were notified that had 90 days remaining at Disney and would be laid off on Jan. 30, 2015. But before that happened, they would be training their foreign replacements. Perrero wondered how he would tell his family that "I would soon be living on unemployment." Perrero paused. The room was still as the audience waited for him to continue. "Later that same day I remember very clearly going to the local church pumpkin sale and having to tell the kids that we could not buy any because my job was going over to a foreign worker," he said. "How could it be that everybody who hears about Disney and the like ... are completely shocked," said Perrero. "Yet lawmakers continue to evade the topic and take no action." One person with a different experience with foreign workers was Mark O'Neill, the CTO of Jackthreads, an online retailer. He argued that there is a need for more skilled workers. Competition is so fierce for developers "that my developers' starting salaries have risen by 50% in the last eight years," said O'Neill, and "senior positions command compensation that meets or exceeds even that of United States Senators." (That compensation is now at $174,000/year.) Sessions said he sees "no reason to end this [H-1B] program," but he wants a system that favors the most highly qualified. Most of the comments spoke to frustration around the issue. John Miano, a programmer who became an attorney and was representing the Washington Alliance of Technology Workers, illustrated that frustration in a quip. "The only way this is going to get fixed is by executive order from President Trump," he said. At the hearing, Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.), called Eversource Energy's outsourcing "extraordinarily troubling"; he has asked for a federal investigation. Sessions is a leading advocate for reform of the H-1B visa. He has influenced the platform of Donald Trump, the billionaire developer who is leading the Republicans for the presidential nomination, and Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas), another presidential candidate, who has reversed his position on the H-1B visa. Sessions has co-sponsored a reform bill with Cruz. Cruz, a one-time advocate for expanding the visa cap, now favors raising the minimum wage to $110,000. Trump is seeking to raise the prevailing wage. The hearing was an opportunity to bring new attention to the issue in an election year. Academic policy experts spoke on each side of the debate. These were mostly familiar arguments covering heavily researched areas. Sen. Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), made it clear at the hearing that he was holding out for a comprehensive immigration reform bill, similar to the 2013 bill that was approved by the Senate but not the House. "It's hard to believe this bill was turned down," said Schumer. This story, "Former Disney IT worker to Congress: How can you allow this? " was originally published by Computerworld . Mobile is Everything! So sang the banner at last weeks Mobile World Congress (MWC) in Barcelona. A bold statement no less from an industry approaching the cusp of another generation from several directions. MWC is the wireless industry flagship event where the present mixes freely with the future for one week in February every year. As a regular attendee I have to confess I have become a bit jaded. Too many years on the relentless grind to peak smartphone and the seemingly incremental refinements on all our favorite black rectangles has made me a little difficult to impress. + MISSED THE SHOW: Catch up on all the news from Mobile World Congress 2016 + This year was different though. I think 2016 will be remembered as one of those special years where things started to change. Dont get me wrong, there were plenty of new phone launches on display including shiny new offerings from Samsung, Sony and LG. Accessorized ecosystems would seem to be the thing this year with each new phone accompanied by friends like 360-degree cameras, remotely controlled bots and high definition audio systems. All good fun but this was not what impressed me. The most profound theme in the show for me this year was the heavy promotion of virtual and augmented reality (VR/AR) platforms and products. This is certainly new for this show. The support of new user interfaces like VR/AR at scale is one of the key goals of 5G. Seeing big pushes of this tech by large manufacturers and operators in the same backdrop of the many 5G demos and presentations seemed more than coincidental. Samsung even rolled out Mark Zuckerberg to provide support and endorsement for the launch of their new VR platform. AR/VR technology has been around for many years but it has never made it to mass market adoption. I believe the reasons for this are core wireless technology deficiencies. Problems like high latency and poor battery performance have been stifling impediments to the proliferation of these new user interfaces. The goals of 5G include addressing these issues. AR/VR is not without its challenges however and the most notable of these are immature ecosystems and insufficient compelling content. If shoot em up action is your thing then you are all set but the value proposition of AR/VR is much higher than this and it will take time for the needed content ecosystems to mature. Probably about as long as it will take for 5G to start having some market impact. I would argue that one of the best things that could happen for 5G will be if AR/VR products of any sorts becomes a must have on everyones Santa list this year. This ecosystem needs to start growing now and end users need to start getting engaged for what is coming. The Internet of Things (IoT) was the third key theme in the show and it also seems like this space is approaching an inflection point too. I was reminded of where the wireless industry was around 2008 and 2009. Today, we take for granted that there are only two main phone platforms, iOS and Android but back then there were literally dozens of contenders for these crowns. It is not clear yet how the IoT platform race will play out but it is coming. The opportunity here is certainly several orders of magnitude bigger and I doubt it will be as simple as before. One thing is clear. Everything is intertwined. 5G will enable the IoT and it will enable the ubiquitous adoption of new user interfaces like AR/VR. In turn, AR/VR will make the management and visualization of the IoT possible and valuable for us all. This is what is coming and putting this all together is the challenge that everyone in the wireless industry has ahead of them. This all said, and with so much work obviously still to do one big question remains. What will the show be called next year? If Mobile is Everything now then where do we go from here, Everything 2.0? I will have to leave that one with the marketing folks to work out. I am sure they will before February rolls around again. A Lexus SUV being controlled by Google's autonomous vehicle (AV) technology has crashed into the side of a bus, marking what may be the first accident caused by the self-driving technology while it was in full autonomous mode. The accident, first reported by freelance writer Mark Harris, showed up on an accident report filed with the California DMV on Feb. 23. The collision -- involving an RX450h SUV and a public bus in Mountain View, Calif. -- took place on Feb. 14. The Lexus was in "autonomous mode" while traveling about two miles per hour in the right-hand lane as it approached an intersection and signaled for a right hand turn. Sandbags surrounding a storm drain caused the vehicle to move left, into the center lane. Creative Commons Lic. Google's Lexus RX45h self-driving SUV. "A public transit bus was approaching from behind. The Google AV test driver saw the bus approaching in the left side mirror but believed the bus would stop or slow to allow the Google AV to continue," the accident report stated. "Approximately three seconds later, as the Google AV was reentering the center of the lane, it made contact with the side of the bus." The report indicated that Google car's safety driver believed the bus would yield. The bus was traveling at about 15mph, according to the report filed by Chris Urmson, Google's director of self-driving cars. While no injuries were reported, the Google AV sustained body damage to the left front fender, the left front wheel and one of its driver's-side doors, the report stated. In a reply to Computerworld, Google said its AVs spend a lot of time on El Camino Real, a wide boulevard of three lanes in each direction that runs through Googles hometown of Mountain View. The boulevard has hundreds of sets of traffic lights and hundreds more intersections, it has helped Google AVs to navigate "a busy and historic artery. And on Valentines Day we ran into a tricky set of circumstances on El Camino..." "Most of the time it makes sense to drive in the middle of a lane. But when youre teeing up a right-hand turn in a lane wide enough to handle two streams of traffic, annoyed traffic stacks up behind you," Google stated. "So several weeks ago we began giving the self-driving car the capabilities it needs to do what human drivers do: hug the rightmost side of the lane. This is the social norm because a turning vehicle often has to pause and wait for pedestrians; hugging the curb allows other drivers to continue on their way by passing on the left. Its vital for us to develop advanced skills that respect not just the letter of the traffic code but the spirit of the road." The accident involving a Google AV is not the first. In June of last year, Google began actively reporting accidents involving vehicles using its self-driving technology. Google AVs have been in more than a dozen accidents to date, but all previous ones were blamed on human error, making the latest the first while a vehicle was in fully autonomous mode. Google has 23 Lexus RX450h SUVs performing test drives on California public roads. To date, the vehicles have logged more than 1 million miles, according to Google. This story, "Google's self-driving car has caused its first accident" was originally published by Computerworld . More than 60 protesters gathered at the Champaign County Courthouse to present a petition to State's Attorney Julia Rietz after her decision not to prosecute Champaign officer Matt Rush. Columnist Tom Kacich is a columnist and the author of Tom's Mailbag at The News-Gazette. His column appears Sundays. His email is tkacich@news-gazette.com, and you can follow him on Twitter (@tkacich). Funeral homes often submit obituaries as a service to the families they are assisting. However, we will be happy to accept obituaries from family members pending proper verification of the death. Submit NOTICE: This Consumer Medicine Information (CMI) is intended for persons living in Australia. diclofenac potassium Consumer Medicine Information What is in this leaflet This leaflet answers some common questions about Voltaren Rapid. It does not contain all the available information. It does not take the place of talking to your doctor or pharmacist. The information in this leaflet was last updated on the date listed on the final page. More recent information on the medicine may be available. You should ensure that you speak to your pharmacist or doctor to obtain the most up to date information on the medicine. You can also download the most up to date leaflet from www.novartis.com.au. Those updates may contain important information about the medicine and its use of which you should be aware. All medicines have risks and benefits. Your doctor has weighed the risks of you taking this medicine against the benefits they expect it will provide. If you have any concerns about this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Keep this leaflet with the medicine. You may need to read it again. What Voltaren Rapid is used for Voltaren Rapid belongs to a group of medicines called non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAID). It relieves pain and reduces inflammation (swelling and redness). It is used for short-term treatment of the following conditions: migraine headaches and it may also relieve the accompanying symptoms, such as nausea and vomiting, which you sometimes experience when you have a migraine relief of menstrual cramps (period pain). short-term treatment (up to 1 week) of other painful conditions where swelling is a problem such as back or joint pain, dental pain, muscle strains or sprains and tendonitis (e.g. tennis elbow). Voltaren Rapid can relieve the symptoms of pain and inflammation but it will not cure your condition. Ask your doctor if you have any questions about why this medicine has been prescribed for you. Your doctor may have prescribed it for another purpose. Voltaren Rapid is only available with a doctor's prescription. It is not addictive. There is not enough information to recommend this medicine for children and adolescents under 14 years of age. Before you take Voltaren Rapid When you must not take it Do not take Voltaren Rapid if you are allergic (hypersensitive) to: diclofenac (the active ingredient in Voltaren Rapid) or any of the other ingredients listed at the end of this leaflet other medicines containing diclofenac (e.g. Voltaren tablets or suppositories, Voltaren Emulgel, Voltfast powder) aspirin ibuprofen any other NSAID If you are not sure if you are taking any of the above medicines, ask your doctor or pharmacist. Some of the symptoms of an allergic reaction may include: shortness of breath wheezing or difficulty breathing swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, and/or extremities (signs of angioedema) rash, itching or hives on the skin. Many medicines used to treat headache, period pain and other aches and pains contain aspirin or NSAID medicines. If you are allergic to aspirin or NSAID medicines and you take Voltaren Rapid, these symptoms may be severe. Do not take Voltaren Rapid if you have had any of the following medical conditions: a stomach or intestinal ulcer bleeding from the stomach or bowel (symptoms of which may include blood in your stools or black stools) kidney or liver problems severe heart failure heart bypass surgery Do not take Voltaren Rapid during the first 6 months of pregnancy, except on doctor's advice. Do not use during the last three months of pregnancy. Use of this medicine during the last 3 months of pregnancy may affect your baby and may delay labour and birth. Use of non-aspirin NSAIDs can increase the risk of miscarriage, particularly when taken close to the time of conception. Do not take Voltaren Rapid after the expiry date printed on the pack or if the packaging is torn or shows signs of tampering. In that case, return it to your pharmacist. Before you start to take it Tell your doctor if you have any of the following health problems / medical conditions: established disease of the heart or blood vessels (also called cardiovascular disease, including uncontrolled high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, established ischemic heart disease, peripheral arterial disease or atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease), as treatment with Voltaren is generally not recommended established cardiovascular disease (see above) or significant risk factors such as high blood pressure, abnormally high levels of fat (cholesterol, triglycerides) in your blood, diabetes, or if you smoke, and your doctor decides to prescribe Voltaren, you must not increase the dose above 100 mg per day if you are treated for more than 4 weeks. history of ulcers (stomach or intestinal) gastrointestinal problems such as stomach ulcer, bleeding or black stools, or have experienced stomach discomfort or heartburn after taking anti-inflammatory medicines in the past diseases of the bowel or inflammation of the intestinal tract (Crohn's disease) or colon (ulcerative or ischemic colitis) liver or kidney problems a rare liver condition called porphyria bleeding disorders or other blood disorders (e.g. anaemia) asthma or any other chronic lung disease that causes difficulty in breathing hay fever (seasonal allergic rhinitis) repeated chest infections polyps in the nose diabetes dehydration (e.g. by sickness, diarrhoea, before or after recent major surgery swollen feet Your doctor may want to take special precautions if you have any of the above conditions. It is generally important to take the lowest dose of Voltaren that relieves your pain and/or swelling and for the shortest time possible in order to keep your risk for cardiovascular side effects as small as possible. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant. There is not enough information to recommend the use of Voltaren Rapid during the first 6 months of pregnancy and it must not be used during the last 3 months. Voltaren Rapid may also reduce fertility and affect your chances of becoming pregnant. Your doctor can discuss with you the risks and benefits involved. Tell your doctor if you currently have an infection. If you take Voltaren Rapid while you have an infection, some of the signs of the infection such as pain, fever, swelling and redness may be hidden. You may think, mistakenly, that you are better or that the infection is not serious. Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding. Breast-feeding is not recommended while you are using this medicine. The active ingredient in Voltaren Rapid passes into breast milk and may affect your baby. Tell your doctor if you are fructose intolerant. This medicine contains sucrose, which is converted by the liver to fructose. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any other medicines, foods, dyes or preservatives. Your doctor will want to know if you are prone to allergies, especially if you get skin reactions with redness, itching or rash. Taking other medicines Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medicines, including any that you buy without a prescription from a pharmacy, supermarket or health food shop. Some medicines that are important to mention include: other anti-inflammatory medicines, e.g. aspirin, salicylates or ibuprofen warfarin or other "blood thinners" (medicines used to prevent blood clotting) digoxin (a medicine for your heart problems) lithium or selective serotonin-reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), medicines used to treat some types of depression diuretics (medicines used to increase the amount of urine) ACE inhibitors or beta-blockers (medicines used to treat high blood pressure, heart conditions, glaucoma and migraine) prednisone, cortisone or other corticosteroids (medicines used to provide relief for inflamed areas of the body) medicines (such as metformin) used to treat diabetes, except insulin methotrexate (a medicine used to treat arthritis and some cancers) cyclosporin, tacrolimus (a medicine used in patients who have received organ transplants) trimethoprim (a medicine used to prevent or treat urinary tract infections) some medicines used to treat infection (quinolone antibacterials) glucocorticoid medicines, used to treat arthritis sulfinpyrazone (a medicine used to treat gout) voriconazole (a medicine used to treat fungal infections). phenytoin (a medicine used to treat seizures). rifampicin (an antibiotic medicine used to treat bacterial infections). You may need to take different amounts of your medicines or to take different medicines while you are taking Voltaren Rapid. Your doctor and pharmacist have more information. If you have not told your doctor about any of these things, tell him/her before you start taking this medicine. How to take Voltaren Rapid Swallow the Voltaren Rapid tablets whole with a full glass of water. Do not break them or chew them. When to take it Take the tablets preferably before meals. If they upset your stomach, you can take them with food or immediately after food. They will work more quickly if you take them on an empty stomach but they will still work if you have to take them with food to prevent stomach upset. How much Voltaren Rapid to take Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and pharmacist carefully. These instructions may differ from the information contained in this leaflet. If you do not understand the instructions on the label, ask your doctor or pharmacist for help. There are different ways to take Voltaren Rapid depending on your condition. Your doctor will tell you exactly how many tablets to take. Do not exceed the recommended dose. To treat migraine The usual dose is 50 mg (one tablet) at the first sign of an attack. If the pain is not relieved within 2 hours, another tablet can be taken. After that, you must wait at least 4 hours before taking any more Voltaren Rapid. Do not take more than 200 mg (4 tablets) in 24 hours even if you have more than one migraine attack within that 24 hour period. To treat menstrual cramps (period pain) The usual dose is 50 mg to 100 mg (1 to 2 tablets) beginning as soon as cramps begin. This is usually followed by 1 tablet three times each day until the pain goes away, but for no longer than 3 days. To treat other painful conditions The usual dose is 100 mg to 150 mg (2 to 3 tablets) each day. In milder cases, as well as in children over 14 years old, 75 mg to 100 mg each day is usually enough. How long to take it Do not take Voltaren Rapid for longer than your doctor says. It is usually taken for a short time only (up to one week) but it may be prescribed on repeated occasions, depending on your condition. If you forget to take it If it is almost time for your next dose (e.g. within 2 or 3 hours), skip the dose you missed and take the next dose when you are meant to. Otherwise, take it as soon as you remember, and then go back to taking it as you would normally. Do not take a double dose to make up for the one that you missed. This may increase the chance of you getting an unwanted side effect. If you have trouble remembering when to take your medicine, ask your pharmacist for some hints. If you take too much (Overdose) Immediately telephone your doctor or Poisons Information Centre (telephone 13 11 26), or go to Accident and Emergency at your nearest hospital if you think that you or anyone else may have taken too much Voltaren Rapid. Do this even if there are no signs of discomfort or poisoning. Keep the telephone numbers for these places handy. If you take too much Voltaren Rapid, you may experience: vomiting bleeding from the stomach or bowel diarrhoea dizziness ringing in the ears convulsions (fits) While you are taking Voltaren Rapid Things you must do If you become pregnant while taking Voltaren Rapid, tell your doctor immediately. Your doctor can discuss with you the risks of taking it while you are pregnant. Be sure to keep all of your doctor's appointments so that your progress can be checked. Your doctor will periodically re-evaluate whether you should continue treatment with Voltaren, if you have established heart disease or significant risks for heart disease, especially in case you are treated for more than 4 weeks. Your doctor may want to check your kidneys, liver and blood from time to time to help prevent unwanted side effects. If, at any time while taking Voltaren you experience any signs or symptoms of problems with your heart or blood vessels such as chest pain, shortness of breath, weakness, or slurring of speech, contact your doctor immediately. These may be signs of cardiovascular toxicity. If you are going to have surgery, make sure the surgeon and anaesthetist know that you are taking Voltaren Rapid. NSAID medicines can slow down blood clotting and affect kidney function. If you get an infection while taking Voltaren Rapid, tell your doctor. This medicine may hide some of the signs of an infection (pain, fever, swelling, redness). You may think, mistakenly, that you are better or that the infection is not serious. If you are about to be started on any new medicine, remind your doctor and pharmacist that you are taking Voltaren Rapid. Tell any other doctor, dentist or pharmacist who treats you that you are taking Voltaren Rapid. Things you must not do Do not take any of the following medicines while you are taking Voltaren Rapid without first telling your doctor: aspirin (also called ASA or acetylsalicylic acid), or other salicylates other medicines containing diclofenac (e.g. Voltaren tablets or suppositories, Voltaren Emulgel, Voltfast powder) ibuprofen any other NSAID medicine If you take these medicines together with Voltaren Rapid, they may cause unwanted side effects. If you need to take something for headache or fever, it is usually okay to take paracetamol. If you are not sure, your doctor or pharmacist can advise you. Do not give this medicine to anyone else, even if their condition seems similar to yours. Do not use it to treat any other complaints unless your doctor tells you to. Things to be careful of Be careful driving, operating machinery or doing jobs that require you to be alert until you know how Voltaren Rapid affects you. This medicine may cause dizziness, drowsiness, spinning sensation (vertigo) or blurred vision in some people. If you have any of these symptoms, do not drive, use machines, or carry out other activities that need careful attention. Elderly patients should take the minimum number of tablets that provides relief of symptoms. Elderly patients, especially those with a low body weight, may be more sensitive to the effects of Voltaren Rapid than other adults. Side effects Tell your doctor or pharmacist as soon as possible if you do not feel well while you are taking Voltaren Rapid. All medicines can have side effects. Sometimes they are serious, most of the time they are not. You may need medical treatment if you get some of the side effects. If you are over 65 years old, you should be especially careful while taking this medicine. Report any side effects promptly to your doctor. As people grow older, they are more likely to get side effects from medicines. Do not be alarmed by these lists of possible side effects. You may not experience any of them. Ask your doctor or pharmacist to answer any questions you may have. Tell your doctor if you notice any of the following and they worry you: stomach upset including nausea (feeling sick), vomiting, indigestion, cramps, loss of appetite, wind heartburn or pain behind or below the breastbone (possible symptoms of an ulcer in the tube that carries food from the throat to the stomach) stomach or abdominal pain constipation, diarrhoea sore mouth or tongue altered taste sensation headache dizziness, spinning sensation drowsiness, disorientation, forgetfulness feeling depressed, anxious or irritable strange or disturbing thoughts or moods shakiness, sleeplessness, nightmares tingling or numbness of the hands or feet feeling of fast or irregular heart beat unusual weight gain or swelling of arms, hands, feet, ankles or legs due to fluid build up symptoms of sunburn (such as redness, itching, swelling, blistering of the lips, eyes, mouth, and/or skin) that happen more quickly than normal skin inflammation with flaking or peeling vision disorders* (e.g. blurred or double vision) buzzing or ringing in the ears, difficulty hearing hypertension (high blood pressure) hair loss or thinning NSAIDs, including diclofenac, may be associated with increased risk of gastro-intestinal anastomotic leak. Close medical surveillance and caution are recommended when using this medicine after gastrointestinal surgery. *If symptoms of vision disorders occur during treatment with Voltaren Rapid, contact your doctor as an eye examination may be considered to exclude other causes. If any of the following signs appear, tell your doctor immediately or go to Accident and Emergency at your nearest hospital: red or purple skin (possible signs of blood vessel inflammation) severe pain or tenderness in the stomach, vomiting blood or material that looks like coffee grounds, bleeding from the back passage, black sticky bowel motions (stools) or bloody diarrhoea (possible stomach problems) rash, skin rash with blisters, itching or hives on the skin; swelling of the face, lips, mouth, tongue, throat, or other part of the body which may cause difficulty to swallow, low blood pressure (hypotension), fainting, shortness of breath (possible allergic reaction) wheezing, troubled breathing, or feelings of tightness in the chest (signs of asthma) yellowing of the skin and/or eyes (signs of hepatitis/liver failure) persistent nausea, loss of appetite, unusual tiredness, vomiting, pain in the upper right abdomen, dark urine or pale bowel motions (possible liver problems) constant "flu-like" symptoms including chills, fever, sore throat, aching joints, swollen glands, tiredness or lack of energy, bleeding or bruising more easily than normal (possible blood problem) painful red areas, large blisters, peeling of layers of skin, bleeding in the lips, eyes, mouth, nose or genitals, which may be accompanied by fever and chills, aching muscles and feeling generally unwell (possible serious skin reaction) signs of a possible effect on the brain, such as sudden and severe headache, stiff neck (signs of viral meningitis), severe nausea, dizziness, numbness, difficulty in speaking, paralysis (signs of cerebral attack), convulsions (fits) change in the colour or amount of urine passed, frequent need to urinate, burning feeling when passing urine, blood or excess of protein in the urine (possible kidney disorders) sudden and oppressive chest pain (which may be a sign of myocardial infarction or a heart attack) breathlessness, difficulty breathing when lying down, swelling of the feet or legs (signs of cardiac failure) Coincidental occurrence of chest pain and allergic reactions (signs of Kounis syndrome) Tell your doctor if you notice anything else that is making you feel unwell. Some people may have other side effects not yet known or mentioned in this leaflet. After using Voltaren Rapid Storage Keep your medicine in the original container until it is time to take it. Store it in a cool dry place. Do not store Voltaren Rapid or any other medicine in the bathroom or near a sink. Do not leave it in the car or on window sills. Keep the medicine where children cannot reach it. A locked cupboard at least one-and-a-half metres above the ground is a good place to store medicines. Disposal If your doctor tells you to stop taking Voltaren Rapid or the expiry date has passed, ask your pharmacist what to do with any medicine you have left over. Product description What it looks like Voltaren Rapid 50 mg tablets are reddish-brown sugar-coated tablets; blister packs of 20 tablets. Ingredients Voltaren Rapid tablets contain 50 mg diclofenac potassium as the active ingredient. They also contain: silica colloidal anhydrous calcium phosphate (E341) magnesium stearate (E572) maize starch povidone (E1201) sodium starch glycolate microcrystalline cellulose (E460) iron oxide red CI77491 (E172) macrogol 8000 sucrose purified talc (E553b) titanium dioxide (E171) Voltaren Rapid does not contain lactose, gluten, tartrazine or any other azo dyes. Like politics and misery, wine makes for strange bedfellows, odd companions and strong allegiances, albeit far more fun. Stephen Barnard and Al Schornberg leaned against the counter in the Keswick Vineyards tasting room, sipping their award-winning cabernet franc while gently poking fun at each other and the world. Born generations, continents and cultures apart, native South African Barnard, 39, and 66-year-old former Michigan tech industry mogul Schornberg are joined at the vineyard. Their love of wine craft has forged both partnership and friendship that pays off in casks, cases and bottles. Last week, the relationship won their Keswick Vineyards the state wine industrys coveted Governors Cup award, naming its 2014 Cabernet Franc Estate Reserve as the states best wine for 2016. Its the second cup for Schornbergs winery and the third win for Barnard as a winemaker. Its also the third victory for the vineyards grapes as Barnards win at another winery was made with Keswick fruit. Its great to win awards, and were happy when others win awards, too, Barnard said, a sly smile curling across his face. But were happier when we win all of the awards. Its great to win our second cup, but were not a dynasty, Schornberg added with a laugh. Not yet, Barnard replied with a smile. The outgoing Schornberg and more introspective Barnard share a semi-dry sense of humor, a friendly banter, a love of wine and an intense sense of purpose. Both inadvertently came to winemaking, choosing what they loved even if it didnt make much sense to others. Barnard didnt grow up with wine. His farmer parents and siblings dont drink it. He did, however, and a gig in the tasting room of an established winery in Capetown, South Africa, led to a career a half-world away. Wine has a funny way of bringing diverse people together. When people sit and relax and talk over wine, it has an impact all of its own, Barnard said. Conversation without wine is just gossip. Barnard later took a job in that winerys cellar, studied viticulture and then made red wine at another Cape Town winery before a need to travel led him to Ohio State Universitys viniculture program. I love wine, I love making wine and I want to make good wine, Barnard said. I think it would be very difficult to make something that was good if you didnt like it. If you dont like rap music, I dont think youd make a very good rap record. In 2002, Schornberg hired Barnard as an intern despite the fact that Schornberg is a University of Michigan fan; his wife, Cindy, attended Michigan State University; and the rivalry between the three Big 10 schools is intense. [Local winemaker] Michael Shaps was our consultant at the time and he found Stephen. He said, He comes from Ohio State. I said, No! No way, Schornberg said, laughing. We finally let him in anyway and hes been great, even if he did marry my daughter Kat. I figured Id get out of school and spend some time maybe in California or somewhere to get experience and then head back to South Africa, Barnard admitted. I never expected to fall in love with the area or with someone who lives here. For Schornberg, owning a winery was a daydream to which he retreated while growing his firm, Anatec, into a national technological company. While waiting to make a sales pitch or meet with executives, hed retreat to a happy place beneath an olive tree with a glass of his own estate vino. In 1994 the Schornbergs were in a small plane that bounced off a mountain in Canadas Northwest Territory. Passengers had to use the cabin doors to help steer the damaged craft back to the airport. Upon landing, they adjourned to a local bar to reconsider their lives directions. It turned out that Schornberg really wanted to make wine, so he sold the company and bought the property in Keswick. You know, its not just about making wine. Its about drinking wine, discussing it, critiquing it and thinking about what you want to create for people, Schornberg explained as he intently leaned forward over the counter. Everyone in the winery sits down to taste the wines and discuss them and talk about what we want them to be. You want the wine to reflect the soil, the weather, the land and the winery. No one should be able to recognize a wine as a Stephen Barnard wine, but a Keswick wine, Barnard said, also growing serious. But if another winemaker came along and tried to make exactly the wine that Stephen makes, I dont believe it would work, Schornberg countered. Its the winemaker who takes the grape through that process to the end result that you have in mind. You dont really make wine, youre a steward. You try to get the best the grape has to offer through the process, Barnard said. Your customers expect some consistency in your wines, but there often is very little consistency between the harvests. Thats why you blend small barrels with large barrels, new oak with old oak and try to reach that goal. You can have the vines and the yeast and the barrels and the tanks and everything that you need, but you have to know what to do with them, Schornberg continued. Stephen and the vineyard and the wines are kind of synergistic. He has a real passion for the grapes and the wine. The object is to get it perfect, which is something you cant do, Barnard acknowledged. These wines we just made all of them theyre great, but theyre still not the best we can do. That, Schornberg said with a smile and tip of his wine goblet toward Barnard, is yet to come. Deadly side of racial bigotry Indeed, the baleful shadow that hovers over the lightest of moments leaves us expectant of an imminent evil. And as the drama unfolds the characters more than prove their salt. The Jones brothers Freddie, Doug, and Cliff tower as individuals, capable of standing alone. But they are interdependent. Here, no man is an island and their symbiotic relationship serves them well. And Rudy, who is roped in as a de facto blood relative is commanding and arguably the linchpin of the group. Ever notable is Blackie, a tragic, inscrutable, imposing figure who leaves an indelible imprint long after he is no longer physically present. There are love interests, some as genuine as they get. And the lusts of roaming eyes can be innocuous although in the case of Girlie Monsammy, it could well portend her demise. Bearing all the signs of a whodunit mystery clothed in Shakespearean tragedy, Cumberbatch manages to overwhelm us with a grey, threatening atmosphere and a relentless cadence as Blackie unveils his primordial sexual exploits. Rudy wrestles with his conscience when the body of Girlie Moonsammy washes up on the riverbanks. May be he could have saved that poor girl from the clutches of Blackie, after all, he saw their last encounter. But did his eyes betray him? Why didnt Moonsammy scream or put up a valorous struggle? Is Blackie capable of this monstrosity or is he a victim of malicious tongues? Throughout, a brewing, indefinable storm lurks, poised to exact a pound of flesh from unsuspecting characters. Alcoholic demons press on in their effort to claim victims; Freddies revelation that sickle cell anemia might cut short his life; the secret he takes to his grave; and his comment: Life is a bitch, then you die, reverberates, determined to teach us painful lessons. And the prophetic words, We all have our demons, some have more than others, and how you deal with them shows your true character, emerge the unswerving statement of this narrative. But beyond the plotting of mischievous gods there is a troubling reality that never goes away. Tribalism based on race, religion, and ethnicity is ever present, and so are misogyny and sexism. Rudy listens with incredulity when he raised the possibility that the rape of Moonsammy might be taking place right under their nose, only to be told, Rudy, you have to ask yourself what she is doing out there this late in the evening, all by herself. Looking for it, maybe? We shake our heads in disappointment as Blackies handicap becomes the subject of ridicule. Children can be cruel and insensitive at times. Adults should know better, but they are more culpable than those in their care. Blackie is condemned, never given the chance to prove otherwise. No room for impartiality, doubt, or a fair shake. Throughout, the boys dominate with impressive business ventures. They are resourceful, savvy, daring, and their first project as building contractors gets off to a fortuitous start. Multiple contracts follow. They are not to be reckoned with, never intimidated by unionists - standing their ground under pressure - and winning. Business is their gateway to financial independence and influence, and their prodigious plan to establish a homeowners association in the district of Major Tom is another step in consolidating their image as serious businessmen. And so much can be learnt from their philanthropy. Hand in glove, they are the perfect fit for success. Their construction business explodes. Single-handedly, they transform the infrastructure of their community. We are in the upper middle class now, Rudy boasts. We will be in the rich class soon. Think about it. People will want a piece of us, he adds, as is if divining with a crystal ball. His predictions come through and the power brokers of Guyana, including the president are present at the soil turning for one of their community undertakings. We must educate children to not just be effective turners of the wheels of industry, commerce and government, so to speak, but in how to create the wheel, says Rudy, brimming with an ambitious plan for the next generation. But sometimes riches cannot wash away the pain of losing a loved one, as he later discovers. On the surface there is a happy ending to this irrepressible tale. But ironically, in a world searching for meaning the only winners are Blackie and Moonsammy victims of skewed pride and racial prejudice. Their end, though, is not as regrettable as it seems. There is a redemptive, inexorable lesson in their calamitous existence an admonition as old as time. But we never learn. Admittedly, Cumberbatchs work does not bask in darkness, but the promise that life offers is devoured by the wretchedness we create. The tragedy of Moonsammy and Blackie is an albatross, a lingering stain on a community and nation. To his credit, Cumberbatch succeeds in delivering this profoundly philosophical message. Feedback: glenvilleashby@gmail. com or follow him on Twitter@ glenvilleashby The Killing of Girlie Moonsammy by Albert R. Cumberbatch, PhD 2015 Publisher: Xlibris ISBN: 978-1-5035-3355-4 Available at Amazon Rating: Recommended Reading exercises for SAT The reading comprehension section is going to feature more history passages than ever. Questions for the reading passages dont require that you bring any prior knowledge to the test, but the more youre familiar with history, the more confident you will be to tackle questions. Here is a suggested list of reading material for students who plan to tackle the new SAT . This list contains some of my favourite American history books. 1. When London Was the Capital of America by Julie Elswell -- There was a time when the American colonies looked to London for education and culture. Americans travelling to London were considered to be socially sophisticated. This is the story of the 13 original colonies relationship with London before the Revolutionary War. 2. Ethan Allen and the Green Mountain Boys by Conrad R Stein This fascinating biography of the legendary Ethan Allen chronicles the capture of For Ticonderoga with Benedict Arnold before Arnold became a turncoat. The Green Mountain Boys fought in the American Revolution and also fought for Vermont to be an independent state. This books shows the disharmony and the territorial squabbles that emerged among the 13 original American colonies 3. Dr. Seuss Goes to War The World War II Editorial Cartoons of Theodor Seuss Geisel Many readers dont realise that the beloved childrens author of Green Egg and Ham contributed to the US effort in World War II by producing cartoons. Art students will especially appreciate this book. 4. Watergate Scandal in the White House by Dale Anderson This book from the Snapshots in History series, provides concise historical information about Watergate, a major Republican scandal. Early on June 17, 19742, police arrested five burglars in the Democratic Party headquarters in the Watergate office complex. They were traced to US President Nixons re-election organisation. The scandal brought down President Nixon who resigned as President of the US. 5. The Cuban Missile Crisis To the Brink of War by Paul J. Byrne Another book in the S Snapshotss in History series, The Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 pitted the US against the Soviet Union in a faceoff over nuclear missiles that were discovered on the island of Cuba. The US instituted a trade embargo. This crisis has defined US/Cuban policy since 1962. 6. The Class of 1846 From West Point to Appomattox: Stonewall Jackson, George McClellan and Their Brothers by John C. Waugh Twenty a generals who fought in three wars came from the class of 1846. What was it about the class of 1846 that made bravery and brilliance stand out? 7. Betsy Ross and the Making of America by Maria R. Miller - Betsy Ross supposedly sewed the first flag for George Washington when the US colonies went to war with England. Millers biography questions how much of Rosss reputation is fact and how much is fiction. 8. Weirding the War Stories from The Civil Wars Ragged Edges, Edited by Stephen Berry This University of Georgia publication argues that we have grown too fond of the American Civil War, glorifying it many ways. These are essays about men who lost their honor, cowards deserters, scavengers, hunger and more. 9. Fur, Fortune and Empire, The Epic History of the Fur Trade in America by Eric Jay Dolin This is the story of the fur trade, a lucrative industry that the French and British fought to control in the American colonies during the POLICE SEND VENDORS PACKING In a brief visit, Mayor of Portof- Spain, Keron Valentine told the vendors that their relocation will be discussed today at a meeting at 2 pm on the second floor of the Ministry of Housing and invited them all to attend. He said the meeting will be attended by himself; the Minister of Housing, Marlene McDonald; and the Chairman of Udecott, Noel Garcia.Valentine said officials are considering putting the vendors in a building next to the New City Mall on Independence Square, Port-of-Spain. Despite appeals for more time, the Mayor told the vendors to continue with the emptying and dismantling of their booths as the Corporation had to hand over the site to Udecott today. He said that as the vendors moved out the Corporation would continue fencing the site, but assured them that none of their possessions would be thrown out or confiscated. He also assured them that around-the-clock security would be provided last night. Steve Fletcher, popularly called Black Hat, described as President of the Downtown Small Business Association, which represents the vendors on the site, said he and his fellow vendors would attend todays meeting and see what came out of it. Let us see what is in store for us and if we disagree there are other channels to take because that is our bread and butter and its no sense going at crumbs and its a large cake. We could have a piece to share up for everyone. He said the vendors were afraid because the situation involved their livelihood but they were willing to give the Mayor the benefit of the doubt that he will assist us somehow. Earlier, Fletcher was busy dismantling his booth and packing the goods on the corner of Frederick Street and Independence Square in preparation for removal. Rejecting the term vendors, Fletcher said he and the other businesspeople were obeying the instructions to dismantle their booths and would complain later. He praised the police officers for their professional handling of the situation, saying the police officers had told them what was expected and they were complying. Asked to whom he planned to complain, he said he would complain to his Lord and then to the people in authority whom he believed did not know what was going on. He told Newsday that one of the proposed relocation sites was an area near the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception on Independence Square but that was not a safe area as a man was killed there on Saturday night. Earl Crosby, who was helping his sister dismantle her stall, said it didnt make sense that trade unions were fighting against retrenchment and the Government was asking private companies not to send home workers while the Government itself was sending home self-employed people. You tell me if that is right. You tell me where that equation working out, he said, adding that his sister employed two people in her booth. He said the vendors should be allowed to continue selling until Udecott was ready to start construction but they were dismantling the booth before the authorities seized the materials. Vendor Diana Samaroo, whose booth was dismantled with the help of friends, said neither she nor any of the other vendors planned to go to the area which had been earmarked for them opposite the Courts store on South Quay. She said the Port-of-Spain City Corporation had told them that they should relocate there for one month and then they would be moved to a building next to the New City Mall. However, she said that the South Quay area was not safe and she intended to take the materials from her booth to her home until a safe location was found for them. She said she had been selling male and female clothing at the Salvatori Building site for the last five years and it was unfair to her and all the other vendors to force them off the site now with no clear indication of where they would go. She said that for the length of time the authorities had been telling them they had to move they should have found a place for everybody on the compound by now. Anyhow you look at it it is unfair, she said. Sean Holder, who said he has been selling on the spot for three years, was unpacking his booth but said he didnt understand the need for the show of force by the police. He said the vendors never had any problem with moving but their problem was where they would be relocated. Udecott plans to construct a high-rise tower on the site to accommodate the Ministry of Energy and Energy Affairs and other State energy sector companies. The Udecott website says the construction of the building will change the face of downtown Port-of-Spain while providing office space for public servants. Zoos giraffes take cautious steps into new African exhibit Accompanied on the tour by the President of the Zoological Society of Trinidad and Tobago (ZSTT), Gupte Lutchmedial and other staff members, Minister Rambharat indicated his pleasure at seeing the giraffes and mandrills in their new accommodation. I am especially heartened to see that ample space is available for these iconic animals and I look forward to the Zoo continuing apace with its upgrade works, said Minister Rambharat. He added, I join with the ZSTT in its achievable vision for the Zoo as a premier conservation and education centre in Trinidad and Tobago. For Lutchmedial and the entire ZSTT, February 2016 will be recorded as a watershed month in the annals of the Emperor Valley Zoo with the opening of this African Exhibit to the public. Guests to the Zoo now have access to this area which adds to their overall experience. Although the physical infrastructure was ready since January, the pace was set by the iconic giraffes that chose to venture into their new accommodation at their own time. We had no choice but to exercise restraint in the giraffe relocation process and after a patient onemonth period, we were rewarded on no lesser day than Valentines Day, said Lutchmedial. Continuing with further details, Lutchmedial explained, Mandela was the first to cautiously back into the enclosure having been coaxed with a corridor lined with branches, and shortly after, Melman followed suit. This milestone was followed three days after with the well-executed relocation of the Zoos four mandrills. When asked how the mandrills are settling in, Lutchmedial stated Monitoring of the mandrills acclimatization to their new accommodation was an integral part of the relocation process, and we observed that after a day of cautious exploration, the mandrills began to use their larger space. Their keepers have observed that they are quite adventurous, climbing onto the several platforms provided and making use of the furniture provided for their enrichment and welfare. The Zoos management has indicated that its guests are pleased with these new developments, with many of them describing the new enclosures as spacious and up to standards seen at other zoos abroad. For Lutchmedial, this is an accomplishment long overdue, since he recalled that this portion of the Zoo was closed to the public for over eight years. This new giraffe enclosure was modified from an exhibit that was built some years ago to house an Asian elephant expected from India. Since this did not materialise, it was an ideal space to convert into suitable accommodation for our two giraffes, explained Lutchmedial. So whats next on the card for the Emperor Valley Zoo? In what can only be described as good news, Sudi, the lone chimpanzee at the Zoo is scheduled to be relocated into her new enclosure by next month. Guests visiting the Zoo would observe work being done apace to finish up this new structure which is situated adjacent to that of the giraffes. The Zoos management is assuring that the upgrade work continues beyond this as its ultimate goal is to have all its animals kept in exhibits that meet the standard of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums which is the standard bearer for the Americas. Young dad loses life in road accident Dead is Kendall Roderick of Block 22 (Beverley Hills), Laventille. Roderick, a bartender and cashier at Sails Restaurant and Pub, Chaguaramas, was the father of two children, ages six and seven. According to police reports, Sunday morning shortly after midnight, Roderick was driving south along the Uriah Butler Highway in the vicinity of the Bamboo Boulevard exit when he lost control of his vehicle, a black Mazda 3, PDK 1059, and crashed into a lamp pole on the western side of the lane. Eyewitnesses reported that after hitting the lamp pole, the vehicle then veered about 100 feet away and collided with the barrier on the eastern side of the lane. Roderick was taken by an Emergency Health Services ambulance to the Eric Williams Medical Sciences Complex where he died at about 1.55 am. Rodericks mother, Mary Ann Baptiste- Pompey, who was trying to come to grips with her sons sudden demise, said that her son was on his way to Chaguanas at the time of the accident to assist in the preparation of some food for his children who he was proud of, to take to a birthday lime at the beach on Sunday. He looked after his children. They depended on him, Baptiste- Pompey said. She said that Roderick, the second of four siblings, was going to rest up a bit on arrival at Chaguanas, then prepare the meals for his children, after which he had planned to return to work for 10 am in Chaguaramas. On hearing of Rodericks death the lime was cancelled. Earlier on Saturday night PC Cassie and PC Mahabir of St Joseph Police Station who responded to the accident involving Roderick, also dealt with another accident on the Priority Bus Route (PBR) involving two private cars. According to police reports, at about 11.50 pm two private vehicles travelling in opposite directions along the bus route collided with each other in the vicinity of Gordon Street, Mount Lambert. There was one person, a State security personnel, in one of the cars and three others in the other. All were taken to the EW MSC. The three of the one car were treated and discharged yesterday morning while the State security personnel was admitted for injuries. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the private cars breached the Road Traffic Act by being on the bus route at the time of the accident. Priest asks church to invite babies, young men The themed event was entitled, How Do I see Jesus and featured a keynote address on the theme was delivered by Antiguan Rev Canon Dr Korthright Davis. The author of books such as Emancipation Still Comin, African Creative Expressions of the Divine, Can God Save the Church among others addressed the role the Anglican Church plays in todays society. The event began promptly at 9 am. Davis called on its members to invite the young into the church, particularly babies and young men. Based on its theme, Anglicanism Reloaded, he said part of a churchs rejuvenation depended on bringing the babies into the church. He also added that if a church did not see young people in it then something was wrong with it. He also called on the church to go out and evangalise once again and to bring people back into the church. The days event opened with the Eucharist, led by Claude Berkley. In addressing those at the event, Berkley noted that the vent was one of capacity- building. He added that recent events played out in the public domain indicted that a renewal was indeed needed. The murder of Japanese national Asami Nagakiya raised questions of hospitality in TT, the resignation of former mayor of Port-of-Spain Raymond Tim Kee, the debate on the standards of modesty, indiscipline in the schools and the breakdown in family life read like a new Western Movie. This indicated, he said, that it was time for the church to once again go out and do mission and ministry in the streets. The event also examined issues of sexuality and sexual orientation. A panel discussion held after lunch and led by activist Sharon Mottley, Canon Richard Jaocb and Nicole Laptiste-George examined the issue of Sexuality and Christ. Another panel discussion led by Carlyle Pemberton, Keisha Martinez and Fr Ahston Gomez examined the issue of the church and vulnerability. There were two debates surrounding the issue of redefining marriage as well as whether the church had failed in its duty to honour God by helping the poor. Three facilitated discussion groups were held addressing the issues of sexuality and Christ, the church and vulnerability and youth for Christ. The topic of sexuality and the Anglican Church comes as globally South Africas Bishops moved toward gay inclusion last week. TT blocks ducks from Suriname Gerard van den Bergh, the chief executive of De Doksenclub, a duck farm outside the capital, Paramaribo, says he has gone to great lengths and considerable expense to satisfy the demands of the Trinidad Ministry of Agriculture, but every time Suriname complies with a request from the Ministry another obstacle is put in his way that holds up the import license. De Doksenclub is the only certified duck farm in the Caribbean, he says. We have ISO 22000. This is described on the ISO website as a Food Safety Management System that can be applied to any organisation in the food chain, farm to fork. Despite this internationally recognised certificate of good practice and hygiene, the Trinidad authorities have repeatedly refused an import license for the ducks from Suriname. There was a time last year when we thought we had been given the all-clear and had a container loaded and ready to go, Mr van den Bergh says. Then at the last minute there was a phone call from Trinidad and it was all off again. De Doksenclub works with Muscovy ducks, the breed favoured by the majority of the catering industry, and has the capability of supplying not just Surinames demand but that of the Trinidad market. On the farm there are raised floors in the cages, which allow the ducks to walk on a clean, dry surface while their droppings fall through to the real floor below. Improvements have been carried out to satisfy the TT requirements. Outside, the areas around the sides of the cages are dry even in the rainy season, as they have been altered to drain into special ditches. Twice a day the ducks water consumption is checked as an indicator of their health, since a drop in consumption would indicate health problems. There are gates installed within the property, and a reception post with accommodation for a full-time security guard at the entrance to the farm, all done at TTs request. The hatching house, where eggs are incubated, is a clinical environment of state-ofthe- art machines, their pristine white doors and walls flanked with computer screens detailing conditions inside. The slaughter space is clean, with a new ceiling, as required by Trinidad. The ducks are slaughtered in the halal way, and not on a mechanical line. This is all in addition to the regular monthly checks made by the Suriname Inspectorate authorities, including laboratory testing of the duck droppings, Mr van den Bergh says. We use the top-rated feed imported from Holland and the eggs are from France. We are producing a top quality product which can certainly benefit the catering industry in Trinidad and Tobago while providing a reliable source of food within the Caricom region. Cuffie upbeat on Thursdays retreat Following that meeting, Rowley said Government will go into retreat at the same venue from March 4 to 5. The Prime Minister also said Cabinet will meet in Tobago at least twice per year as part of an arrangement designed to foster stronger ties between Central Government and the Tobago House of Assembly (THA). Speaking at last Thursdays post-Cabinet news conference at the Office of the Prime Minister in St Clair, Cuffie said, I think every Government within the first year goes on a retreat and companies do it as well. He said retreats provide an opportunity to, look at your strategic objectives and you position yourself for the road ahead. The Minister said, Over the next week when we go into retreat, we will be looking at how best we can refashion, re-energise and take another look as to how we proceed. Addressing a news conference at Piarco International Airport on February 18, when he returned home from the 27th Inter-Sessional Caricom Heads of Government Conference, Rowley indicated a Cabinet reshuffle is not on the cards, coming out of this weeks retreat. What we are talking about is getting a hold of the job that we have taken an undertaking to do, the Prime Minister said then. Vowing there will be no careening and careering from the Government of TT, under his watch, Rowley said the ruling Peoples National Movements (PNM) focus is ensuring the country has good governance and stability. Get the news faster. Tap to install our app. Access Newser even faster. Click here to install our app on your desktop. X (Newser) Bob Ebeling, 89, has carried a terrible burden for 30 years. He was among several engineers who tried to stop the launch of the space shuttle Challenger, saying the booster rockets' rubber seals wouldn't seal correctly in cold weather. They were unsuccessful in their challenge to contractor Morton Thiokol, and the Challenger exploded 73 seconds after it lifted off on Jan. 28, 1986, killing all seven astronauts on board. Ebeling has been blaming himself ever since, NPR reports. "I think that was one of the mistakes that God made," he says, "But next time I talk to him, I'm gonna ask him, 'Why me. You picked a loser.'" Soon after the shuttle disaster, Ebeling quit his job, daughter Kathy Ebeling tells the Washington Post. He spent the rest of his career working on a bird refuge, "helping people and not destroying people," she says. But Ebeling's burden has lightened lately thanks to support from fellow engineers and vindication from some of those involved in launching the Challenger, NPR writes in a follow-up. "Your efforts show that your care for people comes first for you," writes engineer Jim Sides. "God didn't pick a loser. He picked Bob Ebeling." Robert Lund, a Thiokol VP who approved the launch, called Ebeling and said, "You did all that you could do." George Hardy, a former NASA official involved in the launch, sent Ebeling a letter: "You and your colleagues did everything that was expected of you," he writes. "You should not torture yourself with any assumed blame." Ebeling, who suffers from prostate cancer and has home hospice care, says he "know[s] that is the truth that my burden has been reduced." Kathy Ebeling says the letters have helped her father find peace. "He doesnt have to die with this nagging guilt," she tells the Post. "He can die free." (Read more Space Shuttle Challenger stories.) (Newser) Emily Pankhurst is alive today thanks to her mother's sage advice and a round of antibiotics after she discovered that her fatigue, headaches, and fevers weren't mere stress during final exams but the result of leaving a tampon in for nine days. A month later, as she is rebuilding the strength to walk again at her home in the UK, the criminology student is pushing her embarrassment aside in the hopes that her story will inform other young women about toxic shock syndrome and how important it is to be careful with tampons, reports Kent Online. "I was very lucky my mum saw my symptoms as abnormal as the doctors said if I had gone to bed that night I wouldnt have woken up the next day," says the 20-year-old, who came close to dying of sepsis. It took a week of symptoms before Pankhurst finally saw a doctor after noticing abnormal discharge, but she was sent home without an internal examination and told to swab herself. Her mother, however, suggested she take a shower and examine herself to be sure she hadn't forgotten a tampon. Sure enough, Pankhurst says, "To my shock, she was right. I found a nasty, smelly, foul tampon that had gotten so far up I couldnt feel a thing." She tells the Mirror the tampon was "pure black" and "coated in bacteria." Within an hour she was cold, confused, slurring her speech, and unable to open her eyes, and she was rushed to the hospital. Doctors were relieved to discover the raging infection hadn't yet reached her vital organs, and saved her life. (This Michigan teen suffered the worst case of toxic shock system her doctors had ever seen.) (Newser) As secretary of state, Hillary Clinton played a key role in persuading President Obama to intervene in Libyaa move that helped turn the country into a war-torn, terrorist haven, the New York Times reports in two long articles based on interviews with more than 50 domestic and foreign officials. Former Libyan leader Muammar el-Gadhafi was about to crush an uprising in 2011 when Clinton, seeing Libya as a future democracy, broke with Obama's senior advisors (like Joe Biden and Robert Gates) and said the US should intervene with Britain and France; Gates later said Clinton's appeal swayed Obama. When the intervention dragged on, she pressed successfully for Washington to arm rebel militias. "Her view is, we cant fail in this," says Dennis Ross, then a National Security Council expert on the Middle East. "Once we have made a decision, we cant fail." When Clinton learned of Gadhafi's killing, she said, "Wow! We came, we saw, he died!" But the fractured Libyan government that followed couldn't negotiate with the US, make peace with rebel fighters, or secure Ghadhafi's weapons stashes (one reportedly contained 20,000 shoulder-fired, surface-to-air missiles). The killing of US ambassador J. Christopher Stevens only highlighted the country's instability. With the administration re-focusing on Syria and domestic issues, Clinton pressed for deeper engagement in Libyabut a chastened Obama denied her. Libya today has two competing governments, ruined cities, over 4,000 dead, and a vital ISIS outpost, yet Clinton continues her aggressive international approach by calling for a no-fly zone in Syria. "We have learned the hard way when America is absent, especially from unstable places, there are consequences," she says. Click to see the Times' articles here and here. (Read more Libya stories.) (Newser) A handful of Brits from Southampton may be in for more than a hangover after the Ryanair flight they were on from London to Slovakia's capital was diverted to Berlin Friday night. According to the crew, half the members of a bachelor party "misbehaved so badly" that passenger safety was compromised, reports Deutsche Welle. After the group of allegedly intoxicated men was refused more alcohol and became aggressive, with one man allegedly undressing himself, the pilot landed the 170-passenger plane at Schoenefeld airport. The groom and five others, all ages 25 to 28, were ejected, reports the Guardian. The other six members of the party were permitted to stay on the plane, which eventually landed in Bratislava. Each of the men detained on misdemeanor charges could face fines as steep as $27,000 and could even be sued by the airline, reports NBC News. "We will not tolerate unruly or disruptive behavior at any time and the safety and comfort of our customers, crew, and aircraft is our number one priority," Ryanair said in a statement, adding that it is now "a matter for local police." The six men were released after a few hours, and their names aren't being released per German law; there is no word on whether they remained in enough of a party mood to reach Bratislava. (Check out what brought this bachelor party to a sudden halt.) (Newser) That can of Coors Light in your hand may have a picture of the Rocky Mountains on it, but that doesn't mean the beer within was actually brewed anywhere near the Rockies. And Joaquin Lorenzo isn't happy about it. In fact, he's filed a lawsuit in Florida's Miami-Dade County against brewer MillerCoors claiming the company has become unjustly enriched by deceiving drinkers about the origin of Coors Light, Courthouse News reports. Lorenzo, in his suit, does concede that MillerCoors still operates its famed brewery in Golden, Colo. "However," according to the suit, "it is no longer the sole origin of the Coors brand of beers." A 2008 Denver Post article explained that post-merger with Miller, the then-135-year-old Coors beer would also be brewed in spots like Trenton, Ohio, and Irwindale, Calif. And that's not cool, Lorenzo says, especially when the company markets the beer under slogans like: "Proudly brewed in the Rocky Mountain tradition" "Our Mountain is brewing the World's most refreshing beer" "Born in the Rockies" Lorenzo, seeking compensatory damages, says he would have bought a cheaper beer had he known Coors Light was not brewed exclusively in the Rockies. ( Eater points out a 24-pack goes for about $15.) Eater reports there is precedent for winning this kind of suit: In January 2015, a judge ruled Anheuser-Busch had to provide refunds to Kirin Ichiban drinkers who thought the beer was made in Japan; it's been brewed in LA and Williamsburg, Va., since 1996. However, a lawsuit claiming MillerCoors fooled people into thinking the mass-produced Blue Moon was a craft beer didn't fly. (Read more Coors Light stories.) (Newser) A pastor in Dayton, Ohio, was shot dead Sunday and police say it was the man's younger brother who pulled the trigger. Officers responding to a 911 call arrested Daniel Schooler, 68, in connection with the slaying of 70-year-old William Schooler, WHIO reports. The shooting occurred toward the end of a church service as the choir was singing, witnesses tell WDTN, though William Schooler was in a private office at St. Peter's Missionary Baptist Church when he was shot about 12:30pm, according to police. "Thats when we started running," a church member recalls. "It was awful, just awful." Police are calling the shooting a "domestic situation," saying in a statement, "This was not a random act of violence." There were about 20 congregants in the church at the time and no other injuries were reported. A niece to the brothers tells WDTN, "It's a tragedy. I love my uncles and it saddens me. Another niece calls William Schooler "a great father, great provider, great protector." Daniel Schooler is expected to be in court on Monday afternoon. He has a history of violence, according to reports, including convictions in 2001 and 2002 for assault with a deadly weapon. Community leaders plan to host a meeting to discuss solutions to the problem of gun violence in March. "It has become obvious that the current regulations and enforcement of the regulations pertaining to gun violence are not sufficient," a statement says. (Read more Dayton, Ohio stories.) (Newser) North Korea trotted out an American college student it's held for two months Monday, and 21-year-old Otto Frederick Warmbier sobbed, bowed deeply, and pleaded for forgiveness from "every one of the millions of the Korean people." "Please! I made the worst mistake of my life," Warmbier told a press conference held "at his own request." A video obtained by CNN serves as the first glimpse of Warmbier since the alleged "hotel incident" that resulted in his detention as he was trying to leave the country. "I committed the crime of taking down a political slogan from the staff holding area of the Yanggakdo International Hotel," the University of Virginia student says. According to North Korean officials and his own statement, Warmbier's motive was much more sinister than the desire to return home with a unique souvenir. "I beg that you see how I was used and manipulated," he says, citing Z Society, the Friendship United Methodist Church of Wyoming, Ohio, and the US government as his manipulators. A North Korean official says Warmbier met with a "deaconess" of the church last year and was promised a $10,000 used car in return for sowing ideological disunity in the secretive state by taking "an important political slogan." A pastor tells CNN that Warmbier is not a member of the church. Warmbier also allegedly met with a member of Z Society, a secret philanthropic group at UVA that North Korea says is linked to the CIA, and was offered membership in exchange for completing the "mission." Reuters notes that, in the past, North Korea has used detained US citizens as leverage to get high-profile visits from the US. Warmbier's press conference comes as the UN considers new sanctions against North Korea. (Read more North Korea stories.) (Newser) Ashley Guindon lost her life on Saturday, just a day after she was sworn in as a police officer, after responding to a domestic violence call in Woodbridge, Va. In the aftermath, New Hampshire-area media is remembering the 28-year-old, who grew up in Merrimack. WCVB has this detail from Merrimack High School Principal Ken Johnson, who dug up the 2005 yearbook that featured a graduating Guindon. Her quote: "Live for something rather than die for nothing." "The irony is overwhelming," says Johnson. "A kid who gives her life to community service only to have it taken away the very first day. That's just not fair." The then-senior also wrote this in the yearbook, per the Union Leader: "As I take flight it only makes me closer to u daddy. Mom, thanks for everything itll be a long road but we can manage and it will only make u stronger." The AP explains the "daddy" reference, reporting that "Guindon's death was not the first tragedy to strike her family." Father David killed himself in 2004, one day after returning from Iraq, where he served as part of the New Hampshire Air National Guard. Mom Sharon Guindon still lives in Merrimack; Ashley was their only child. Police say Guindon was killed by Army Sgt. Ronald Hamilton, who opened fire as she arrived at his door; his wife, who had placed a 911 call, was already dead. Commonwealth's Attorney Paul Ebert expects he will seek the death penalty in the case; Hamilton is to be arraigned Monday morning. The AP reports the other two officers shot by the gunman are said to face long recoveries. (Read more cop killer stories.) (Newser) Howard Schultz first got the idea to open an American coffee shop after seeing coffee bars in Milan in the 1980s. Now his coffee chain is headingin a wayhome with what it says is "humility and respect." Starbucks will open its first Italian coffee shop in Milan in early 2017, reports the BBC. Other stores will likely follow, per the Guardian. "The dream of the company always has been to sometime complete the circle and open in Italy," Schultz says. "We are confident that Italian people are ready to live the Starbucks experience" in the "country of coffee," an Italian developer adds. Schultz says Starbuckswhich boasts 22,000 outlets in 67 countrieswill "honor the Italian people and their coffee culture." (Read more Starbucks stories.) (Newser) The 23-year-old Ukrainian man accused of posing as a Pennsylvania high school student had sexual relationships with female students, including a 15-year-old in 2014, police say. Artur Samarin, who went by Asher Potts, now faces additional charges of statutory sexual assault and corruption of minors. Meanwhile, new details are emerging about how Samarin apparently fooled high school officials. "It was not my idea, I just want to let you know it was not my idea," Samarin tells WHTM from Dauphin County Prison. He says his family was "starving" in Ukraine and his mother and grandparents gave him the last of their money to start a new life in the US. He arrived in 2012 on a three-month exchange visitor visa, then received a tourist visa. When that expired, Samarinwho dreamed of being a NASA researcher, per PennLivesays Michael and Stephayne Potts helped him get a birth certificate and Social Security card with the name Asher Potts and a birth date in 1997, then adopted him. But they often threatened to call authorities, Samarin says. It was "pretty much like a slave driver system I was afraid so I was cleaning the toilet, I was cooking for them, I was doing everything." Officials say an anonymous tip clued them in to the ruse on Dec. 11. The caller said a man was attending high school illegally and "having sexual relationships with female students." Officials are still investigating, but more arrests are expected. As for whether Samarin regrets the ruse, he says, "No, I'm not regretting doing it. I have spent all of my free time on education. ... I tried to do better for the society." (Read more Pennsylvania stories.) (Newser) When humans in the 15th century encountered olmsrare amphibians that have been roaming Earth's caves for 200 million yearsthey thought they were baby dragons. Today we know little more about the blind creatures than our ancestors did. Olms inhabit the cave rivers of the Balkans, grow up to a foot long, can live for a century, and only need to eat once a decade, report the BBC and Slate. They also lay eggs about as often, which is why the 50 to 60 olm eggs stuck to the underside of a rock in Slovenia's Postojna Cave are so remarkable. The cave hosts a wild olm population alongside an aquarium visited by a million tourists each year. On Jan. 30, a female olm chose an area in the aquarium to lay her eggs, three of which are showing promising signs of growth, biologist Saso Weldt says. It will likely take at least four months for the eggs to hatch. "It is very significant because there is not a lot of data about anything [relating to] the reproduction of this group of animals," says a researcher, adding it would be "something amazing" if any olms hatched and developed. An olmwhich the New York Times describes as having a "long sinuous body, stubby legs, and frilly gills"laid eggs in Postojna Cave in 2013, but all were eaten by other olms or never hatched. This time researchers are allowing only the mother olm access to the eggs, which she monitors with her sense of smell; any that aren't fertilized become food. Scientists are also protecting them from light and are adding extra oxygen to the area because they're vulnerable to changes in water quality and temperature. "Now it's up to them," says Weldt. "We are hoping that in a couple of months we can state that we have baby dragons." (This is the world's largest amphibian.) (Newser) Salma Hayek had hoped cops would track down the person who shot and killed her dog in mid-February at her ranch in Washington state, and they didbut it looks like there won't be any charges. A neighbor of Hayek's has confessed to shooting 9-year-old Mozart with a pellet gun, per TMZ, but police have already closed the case because the neighbor says he shot the pellet gun just to scare Hayek's dogs off his property. He says her dogs are a constant nuisance on his land and that they attack his own dogs. An officer with the Thurston County Sheriff's Office tells WJLA that the fatal pellet-gun shot was a "fluke" that normally wouldn't kill a dog. An autopsy showed that the bullet cut into one of Mozart's arteries and that he "slowly bled to death internally," he says, per KIRO 7. (A veteran demanded a military burial for his service dog, who was shot and killed by a cyclist.) (Newser) A California Ku Klux Klan rally on Saturday ended with three anti-KKK protesters stabbed and five KKK members arrested. But Anaheim cops now say those five have been released after evidence shows they acted in self-defense, the Los Angeles Times reports. "The totality of the evidence, including videos, still pictures, and interviews, paints a pretty clear picture as to who the aggressors were," an Anaheim police sergeant says. The demonstration, which the Chicago Tribune says was meant to be an anti-immigration rally, turned violent from the get-go after six KKK members showed up around noon. Witnesses say some of the anti-protesterswho the Washington Post says numbered in the "several dozen"started kicking a Klansman wearing a "Grand Dragon" shirt, and soon the stabbings began, including one by a KKK member using the decorative end of a flagpole. "[The counter-protesters] were so angry, they would have torn these folks limb from limb," Brian Levin, the director of Center for the Study of Hate and Extremism at California State University-San Bernardino, tells NBC Los Angeles. Levin, who was there to record the rally for research purposes, says he ended up shielding KKK members until police could get there. "I was afraid for their lives." Levin later posted on Twitter a video of him asking one of the KKK members: "How do you feel that a Jewish person helped save your life today?" (The Klansman thanked him.) "Regardless of an individual or group's beliefs or ideologies, they are entitled to live without the fear of physical violence and have the right, under the law, to defend themselves when attacked," a police statement read, per NBC. The seven counter-protesters who remain jailed are being held on charges of assault with a deadly weapon or elder abuse for attacking a Klan member older than 65. The three people stabbed were in stable condition at a local hospital. (Read more Ku Klux Klan stories.) (Newser) The New York Times over the weekend ran a lengthy piece about the GOP's "desperate mission to stop Donald Trump" and the party's inability to unite behind a non-Trump candidate. Chris Christie, of course, made that task more difficult with his surprise endorsement of Trump, and the story explains that a phone call from Marco Rubio to Christie didn't help matters. It seems that after Christie dropped from the race, Rubio left a voicemail seeking the New Jersey governor's support and, in the words of the Times, "assuring him that he had a bright future in public service." The 53-year-old Christie found the tone patronizing, especially from a "44-year-old," and soon offered his support to Trump, who had been reaching out with calls of his own. Click for the full story. (Trump is apparently OK with Christie going home now.) (Newser) Steven Wedel teaches high school English in Oklahoma City, and in a blog post that's gone viral, he describes the tough lives many of his students lead. "Over 90% of the kids in my high school are on the free or reduced lunch programs," he writes. "[They] walk hand-in-hand with Poverty and its brother Violence. They find comfort in the arms of your lover, Addiction. They make babies before they are old enough to vote. Or drive. And they continue the cycle you put them in." He talks about his attempts to encourage his students, many of whom are reluctant to go home after the school day ends, giving them food if they need it or urging them to focus on their education in an attempt to break the cycle. Lawmakers contribute to the problem, he writes, noting that he has two college degrees, has taught for 10 years, has won Teacher of the Year, and yet still makes $18,000 less per year than he did when he was an office worker for an energy company. "You whittle away at education funding. You waste the taxpayers money so that our great state faces unbelievable shortfalls and massive budget cuts. You take home a salary that ranks 10th highest in the nation among state legislators and you are inept," he writes. He notes that, thanks to those budget cuts, students who want to stay at school late will no longer be able to after spring break this year, when the school does away with late buses. "You, the representatives, senators, and governor of Oklahoma are creating a population of ignorant peasants fit only to work in the oil field and factories you bring to this state by promising those businesses wont have to pay their fair share of taxes. You leave our kids in a cycle of poverty and abuse while your pet donor oil companies destroy the bedrock beneath us." He urges parents to vote for lawmakers who value education. Read his full post here. (Read more education stories.) French policemen were forced to use tear gas as fights broke out in response to the demolition project ordered for the southern portion of a migrant camp located right outside of Calais, a northern town in France. As workers began to take a part the tents and makeshift shelters, which were the temporary homes to about 3,000 to 4,000 migrants hoping to make the journey to Britain, roughly 150 to 200 migrants and activists began throwing stones and setting the shelters on fire. "The migrants are just going to run and hide in the woods and the police are going to have to go after them," activist Francois Guennoc of the Auberge des Migrants migrant support group noted, reported by Reuters. The riot police were sent to protect the workers and to prevent "extremists" from trying to bully the migrants at the camp into staying. The migrants have all been offered housing alternatives or transportation to nearby centers. Those who have been resistant to the operation have claimed that there is not enough space in the new areas and that moving to these locations reduces their chances of going to Britain. Regional Prefect Fabienne Buccio added that all of the migrants were given enough time to leave. "Really three houses out of four - I mean three huts out of four, or three tents out of four - were already totally abandoned with a lot of garbage inside," Buccio, who was present at the start of demolition project, said. "[Migrants] had the time necessary to gather their belongings. The rest was good enough to throw away." Buccio had ordered the evacuation and demolition of the camp earlier this month. Last week, Interoior Minister Bernard Cazeneuve stated that authorities and humanitarian groups have been working to relocate the migrants. Fairbanks, AK (99707) Today Snow this evening will taper off and give way to cloudy skies late. Low 26F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 80%. About one inch of snow expected.. Tonight Snow this evening will taper off and give way to cloudy skies late. Low 26F. Winds WNW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 80%. About one inch of snow expected. New Delhi : WhatsApp just announced that it will be withdrawing support for all versions of Blackberry OS and Windows Phone 7.1 sometime later this year. It includes all devices (BB10 included), Symbian 40, Symbian 60, Android 2.1 and 2.2 devices. The company made the announcement in a blogpost it posted a few days ago. The decision has been taken keeping in consideration the market trends, comprises of 99% Android, iOS and Windows Phone 8 and above devices. This comes after the company decided to focus on the mobile platforms that the vast majority of people use. While these mobile devices have been an important part of our story, they dont offer the kind of capabilities we need to expand our apps features in the future., say WhatsApp. Finally, they add that, This was a tough decision for us to make, but the right one in order to give people better ways to keep in touch with friends, family, and loved ones using WhatsApp. If you use one of these affected mobile devices, we recommend upgrading to a newer Android, iPhone, or Windows Phone before the end of 2016 to continue using WhatsApp. It will also end support for Nokia S40, Nokia Symbian S60, Android 2.1, Android 2.2 and Windows Phone 7.1 by the end of the year.If you are a Blackberry user, what do you think of WhatsApp's this decision? Dhaka: Bangladeshs Supreme Court today stayed a High Court order granting bail to a woman lawyer and two of her associates arrested for allegedly financing a new Islamist militant group for weapon procurement. The five-member apex court bench led by Chief Justice Surendra Kumar Sinha stayed their bail until March 20 extending an earlier issued timeframe in line with a petition by the attorney generals office. Elite anti-crime Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) had arrested Barrister Shakila Farzana, the daughter of a former BNP lawmaker from Chittagong, and two of her lawyer associates in the Supreme Court on August 15 on charges of financing a little known Islamist outfit called Shahid Hamza Brigade (SHB). The High Court on February 22 granted them bail, which was immediately challenged by the state which sought to get the order reverses by the Appellate Division of the Supreme Court. RAB earlier said the three were arrested after the elite force gathered information that they provided Taka 10 million (USD 126359) to SHB for weapon procurement. The trio, however, claimed that they had deposited the amount to an account which was taken as advance and that they were unaware of the owner of the account. RAB said the account was owned by top SHB leader Moniruzzaman Don, who is in jail now. Bangladesh identified SHB last year finding them active in southeastern port city of Chittagong after four of their members were arrested with weapons including five AK-22 rifles. According to security officials, SHB, a relatively small group, was formed in 2013 with a mission to stage an armed revolution against the oppression of Muslims at home and abroad. Farzana is the incumbent joint general secretary of the Supreme Court wing of Jatiyatabadi Ainjibi Forum, a grouping of lawyers who support main opposition BNP of former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. New Delhi : Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi on Monday found a special mention in Finance Minister Arun Jaitleys Budget 2016 speech. Rahuls name cropped up after Jaitley accepted Rahul Gandhi's suggestion of tax exemption for Braille paper, which is a specialized equipment for visually-challenged people. Earlier, Congress VP had received a request from a student in Bengaluru's Mount Carmel College who sought his intervention on the issue. Chandana Chandrasekhar met Rahul during his visit to the college and narrated the roadblocks she was facing as a visually-challenged commerce student. "I would be grateful if you could highlight this issue and have these detrimental policies reversed. This customs duty policy affects all categories of people with impairments," she wrote. The request forced Rahul to send a letter to commerce minister Nirmala Sitharaman seeking intervention on the issue. The end result was New Delhi : Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley presented his third budget in the Parliament on Monday. Out of his several key reforms one thing he primarily focussed on the rural and farm sectors, providing relief for farmers under distress. In his long speech, Jaitley also talked about recommendations for OROP which he called will be an additional burden on the treasury. Read the full text of Arun Jaitley's second full budget below. Full text of Arun Jaitley's Budget 2016 speech by News Nation New Delhi: Experts have given thumbs down to the Union Budget 2016-17. Many of the experts which joined News Nation in the panel discussion were dissatisfied from the budget. Here is what the experts said about this budget: 1) This budget is average or below average. Yes, the budget is more focused on rural sector, but the main issue is delivery mechanism in the state apparatus, the government has to deal with this basic issue first: NK Singh, Senior Jouranalist 2) As it is being presented, this Budget doesnt even bring much for industrial sector. Direct Procurement, Dug well has been changed MNREGA, 500cr Dr. JS Yadav, Agriculture Economist. 3) Government has already made it clear in the last budget that they wont lower the Corporate Tax below 25 per cent for at least four years. There should have been something for the lower income group which earns between 2.5 Lakh to 5 Lakhs : Dinesh Verma, Tax expert 4) This is not a reformist budget at all. Government has announced this budget keeping in mind the elections in upcoming two years. Yes, it has all ingredients to garner the vote but the implementation is doubtful. It has provision of 40 per cent of funding from state and 60 per cent from the centre. Will there be any implementation if the state fails to fund its due?: Arun Jain, Co-chairman Assocham. 5) This budget, which has been come out after much exercise, is a confused budget. The budget is Jack of all and master of none. No specialized sector can feel that it has been benefitted: Ram Kripal Singh, Senior Journalist New Delhi: Will you believe that a man was trying to murder a corpse? And he was even arrested on the same charge? Well, if not, then we must tell you that a man in Australia have been arrested and even sentenced to eight years of life imprisonment for attempting a murder to a corpse. Many lawyers believe this case to be worlds first. Daniel James Darrington, 39, was sentenced by a court on Monday for the attempted murder of Rocky Matskassy almost two years ago, Xinhua reported. Last year, a jury found that Darrington had been wrestling with Matskassy, 31, over a gun, before the firearm subsequently discharged and killed Matskassy. Believing that Matskassy was still alive, Darrington then shot the victim again. Now this led to a judicial conflict. As per reports, pair was arguing at a mutual friend's house in March 2014, before Matskassy was assaulted by Darrington and accidentally hit by the stray bullet. However, the jury cleared the person believing that he was not responsible for the first shot which actually led to the death. However, after much dispute, jury accepted the prosecution's version of events that the second shot that followed showed Darrington had made a calculated decision to kill Matskassy, without knowing he had already died. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Islamabad: Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif received money from al-Qaeda chief Osama Bin Laden to contest elections against Benazir Bhutto-led Pakistan Peoples Party in 1990, a new book has claimed. The book titled Khalid Khawaja: Shaheed-i-Aman by Shamama Khalid, the wife of former ISI operative Khalid Khawaja, claims that Sharifs pledge of introducing an Islamic system attracted Khawaja as well as Osama. Chief of PML-N Mian Mohammad Nawaz Sharif received funding from Osama Bin Laden, founder of Al-Qaeda, to contest elections against Benazir Bhutto-led Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) after the end of Zia regime, the book states. But even though Osama funded Sharif heavily, the latter backtracked from all his promises after coming into power, the Dawn reported today. The book also carries a note from former Inter-Services Intelligence director general, retired Lt-Gen Hamid Gul, which claims that Khawaja was very close to Sharif for some time. According to the book, Palestinian Sunni Abdullah Azzam, who is also known as the father of global jihad and Osamas mentor, introduced Khawaja to the Al Qaeda head honcho. The book claims that Khawaja was killed by a splinter group of the Pakistani Taliban while he was on a peace mission in the restive tribal areas. Osama was killed in a midnight raid by the US Navy SEALs in Pakistans garrison town of Abbottabad in 2011. PTI SAI AKJ Two Pak brothers to be hanged for honour killing of sister Lahore, Feb 29 (PTI) In an unusual move, a Pakistani court today sentenced to death twice two brothers for killing their sister and her husband in 2009 to protect the familys honour. Ironically, the sentencing came on a day when Pakistan was celebrating its second Oscar win when filmmaker Sharmeen Obaid Chinoys documentary on honour killings in the country won the prestigious award in Los Angles. A sessions courts here sentenced to death Ahsan and Zeeshan Butt who had shot dead their sister, Saba, and her husband, Shafiq, for marrying out of their own will. Judge Naveed Iqbal also imposed a fine of Rs one million each on the convicted men. The couple, who were residents of Yaki Gate area of Lahores walled city, had married of their free will in 2009 and had moved away. But Ahsan and Zeeshan invited them over for a meal and shot dead the couple only a few months after their marriage. More than 500 men and women died in honour killings in 2015, according to the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan. Honour-killing is a big issue in Pakistan and every year dozens of women are killed. Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif said last week that there was no honour in honour-killing and promised to take measure to wipeout the practice. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Mirpur: Nursing a toe injury, India opener Rohit Sharma today skipped the teams training session and is likely to miss tomorrows Asia Cup T20 match against Sri Lanka, here. His opening partner Shikhar Dhawan did train, so did skipper Mahendra Singh Dhoni, who had a knock during the two-and-a-half-hour net session at the BCB Academy in Sher-e-Bangla Stadium. Rohit, who took a blow on the left toe off a yorker by Mohammed Amir, did not accompany the team for practice as he stayed back in his hotel room. While he is lucky to have escaped fracture, it is highly unlikely that he will play tomorrow's game against Sri Lanka, which might increase the soreness of his left toe. With the World T20 starting in a week's time, the team management will not risk Rohit, who is one of the key players in the top order. Dhawan today hit the nets but did not have the usual sprightly strides that one normally associates with the Delhi left-hander. He took a few catches, did a bit of shadow batting and was the last one to come out to bat in fading light. For a change, Parthiv Patel got to bat early in the net session right after Raina, Kohli and Rahane. It is still not clear as to who will be Rahanes opening partner for tomorrows game. It was also heartening to see Dhoni has a hit at the net session, which he had carefully avoided due to the back spasms. Despite injuries, the mood in the camp looked upbeat as Dhoni, Yuvraj Singh, Virat Kohli and Team Director Ravi Shastri were seen enjoying a hearty laugh after the nets were over. In fact yesterday, the Indian players were found spending a lovely evening at the Indian High Commissioner's residence in Dhaka. It was none other than Virat Kohli, who stole the show regaling the audience with the iconic romantic song jo wada kiya woh nibhaana padegaa. While melody was not something that all those present were looking for, Virat's energy made everyone applaud the effort as there was no dearth of sincerity. Suresh Raina sang the hit song Tumse Milke from the film Parinda his voice sounding more like Kumar Shanu than Suresh Wadkar, who recorded the original song. Bengaluru: Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah today termed the Union Budget as disappointing and not farmer friendly, saying the government had not met the huge expectations created among the people. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Finance Minister Arun Jaitley had created huge expectations among people. The PM had expressed his special concern for farmers in his recent Mann Ki Baat, but that is not reflecting in the budget, Siddaramaiah told reporters. He said the budget speaks about doubling farmers annual income by 2022, but there is no mention about how it will be done. Siddaramaiah who also holds states finance portfolio, has the credit of presenting 10 budgets. Speaking about allocation towards irrigation in the budget, he said, Towards Accelerated Irrigation Benefits Programme (AIBP) in 2015-16, Rs 1,000 crore was set aside, for next year they have set aside only Rs 1,377 crore for the whole country. I dont see we even getting Rs 100-150 crore out of this. It will be of no use, he added. Noting that in this budget there is slight improvement in allocation towards few centrally sponsored schemes compared to last year, he said, They have only made a small correction in centrally sponsored schemes, nothing more than that. Stating that the union government could have done more towards agriculture, rural development, and drinking water, he said, Keeping in mind the drought situation, allocation towards MNREGA could have been enhanced, thereby creating job opportunities to support rural livelihood. On the whole, this budget is disappointing. It is very average and not farmer friendly. These are only my initial reactions. Im yet to go through it in detail, he added. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Kolkata: Dubbing the General Budget as hopeless, Trinamool Congress today said it does not offer any solution to the economic problems and particularly hurts the middle class by making the unprecedented proposal of taxing the PF corpus at the time of withdrawal. The party said it is considering opposing the proposal for taxing the PF corpus in Parliament. This budget is not constructive, nor is it creative. It is stereotype and routine. We are left with no option, but to call it a hopeless budget, TMC, which rules West Bengal, said in a statement here. Party leader Derek OBrien took objection specifically to the proposal to tax the PF corpus. It is hopeless also for middle class. 60 per cent of PF corpus created by employees after April 1,2016 will be taxed when he/she withdraws money. Younger the employee, worse off he/she would be. This has never happened in the history of India. Retirement benefit bruised in a country where virtually no social safety net exists, OBrien said. TMC is considering opposing it...This is something the government must seriously look at, he said. The party headed by Mamata Banerjee said the budget does not offer any hope for the farmers, downtrodden or even for industry. There is no hope for industry, no hope for the farmers, no hope for the poor, no hope for the middle class, no hope even for the Sensex, TMC said, adding no major tax reforms to benefit the middle class. Lots of big words. No real big solutions. Taking on Finance Minister Arun Jaitley, TMC said The FM made an attempt to emphasize on social sector schemes. But the reality is different. Almost 40 social sector schemes have been stopped and states have been burdened for funding new schemes. While giving an example of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sevak Yojana, TMC said Instead of the Centre, which is now funding 100 per cent, it will only fund 60 per cent and the states have to bear 40 per cent. So in West Bengal where Rs 3000 crore was spent, the state would now have to shoulder a burden of Rs 1200 crore. Is this cooperative federalism? The TMC was also critical of the FDI policy. We believe in total transparency. Why has the FM not mentioned the details of the changes in the FDI policy in his budget speech? It is shrouded in an annexure and opens up 100 per cent FDI in many sectors. Why cant the government be transparent?, it asked. For all the Latest India News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Mumbai: An office-bearer of the youth wing of Shiv Sena was today arrested for allegedly assaulting a shop assistant for refusing to provide free vada-pavs. The incident took place in suburban Vile Parle (West) on Saturday but the FIR was registered today. The accused, Sunil Mahadik, allegedly hit Chetan Geveriya (28), who works at Trupti Sweet and Farsan Mart on D J Road, with a bamboo stick, police said. A day ago, Mahadik had sent another person to the shop demanding 100 vada pavs, a popular street-food here, free of cost. Chetan told him that they didnt have so much stock, so the person left. The next day, Mahadik allegedly called Geveriya on his mobile phone and abused him, and said he must hand over 100 vada pavs immediately to a person he was sending. Geveria said Mahadik should speak to the owner of the shop first. Irked, Mahadik himself went to the shop and hit Geveria with a bamboo stick and threatened to kill him, police said. Geveria, though not seriously injured, was taken to Cooper hospital in Juhu, police said. The incident was captured by the CCTV cameras in the shop and Juhu police registered an FIR. The footage was also aired by some local news channels. Mahadik was arrested and a local court sent him to police custody. This incident comes in the wake of another in neighbouring Thane where a Shiv Sena worker was arrested for allegedly assaulting a woman traffic constable three days ago. CCTV footage of the incident had gone viral. For all the Latest Viral News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Washington: Pakistan today said the proposed US sale of F-16 fighter jets to the country would strengthen its ability to carry out counter-terrorism operations and promote regional stability. We appreciate the public assessment of the US leadership in response to Congressional inquiries that Pakistan has used the F-16s effectively against the terrorists in the region, Sartaj Aziz, Pakistani Foreign Affairs Advisor, said in his address to the opening session of the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, which he co-chaired with US Secretary of State John Kerry. The prospective sale of F-16s will strengthen Pakistan's capabilities to successfully continue these vital operations for our mutual benefit and stability in the region, Aziz said as he praised Kerrys recent defence of sale of F-16, which is being vehemently opposed in the US Congress. We are grateful to you Secretary Kerry for your recent positive testimony on the Hill, Aziz said. Last week, testifying before a Congressional committee, Kerry strongly defended the decision and argued these fighter jets are a critical part of the Pakistans fight against terrorists. For all the Latest World News, Download News Nation Android and iOS Mobile Apps. Westend61 / Getty Images DANBURY Police on Monday said they are still investigating a serious accident that sent a middle school student to the hospital Friday afternoon. The boy had just gotten off the school bus on Madison Avenue when he was struck by a car while crossing North Street, authorities said. VANCOUVER, Feb. 29, 2016 /CNW/ - Legend Power Systems Inc. (TSXV: LPS) today reported its first-quarter 2016 financial results for the three-months ended December 31, 2015. Currency amounts are in Canadian Dollars. Q1 was a breakthrough quarter in many respects as we achieved our highest ever quarterly revenue, secured several "brand" name accounts in existing and new verticals, and closed a $1.66 million equity financing. Product acceptance has continued to grow in the Ontario marketplace and Legend received product endorsements from many new "key influencers" who advise decision makers in our target markets as to which energy savings products they should adopt. Fiscal Q1 2016 Financial and Business Highlights: $778,352 in revenue; (record sales quarter) 8 unique transactions 12 units sold $64,500 average deal size 55% gross margin (product and installation) received customer orders in all "sweet spot" verticals; commercial real estate (2), retail (1), education (2), hospitality (2), condo (1) in revenue; (record sales quarter) Achieved excellent results as one of the largest Canadian property management firms realized 8% energy savings with Legend's Harmonizer in their first building. New business development managers (sales) all secured at least their first new order. Secured new initial orders with accounts having potential for national rollouts within their network. Obtained "Market Partners Network" status for Con Edison's Commercial & Industrial Energy Efficiency Program, which provides Legend the opportunity to communicate our skills and project experience to Con Edison's significant customer base. Con Edison is a top 10 U.S. utility serving the boroughs of New York and Westchester County. and Westchester County. Now have over 8 "key influencers" working with Legend to market the Harmonizer in the Ontario marketplace. The financial highlights for the quarter are provided below: Three-months ended December 31 (Cdn$, unless noted otherwise) 2015 2014 Change Revenue 778,352 152,665 409.8% Cost of sales 350,936 87,422 301.4% Gross margin 427,416 65,243 555.1% Gross margin % 54.9% 42.7% 12.2% Operating expenses2 (675,597) (656,875) 2.9% Operating expenses as % of sales 86.8% 430.3% (343.5)% Net (loss) (247,940) (689,226) (64.0)% EBITDA1 (87,491) (498,874) 82.5% 1 EBITDA; for the three-months ended December 31, 2015 and 2014, we are disclosing EBITDA, which is a non-IFRS financial measure, as a supplementary indicator of operating performance. We define EBITDA as net income or loss before interest, income taxes, amortization, foreign exchange amounts and non-cash stock based compensation. 2 Before other items. A complete set of the December 31, 2015 Interim Financial Statements and Management's Discussion & Analysis are available on Legend's corporate website. To view these documents, visit: http://legendpower.com/investors/financial-statements/. Both documents are also filed on SEDAR (www.sedar.com (link is external)). About Legend Power Systems Inc. Legend Power Systems Inc. (www.legendpower.com) markets a proprietary device, the 'Harmonizer' that helps individual buildings reduce energy consumption through the utility-proven concept of Conservation Voltage Reduction, (CVR). Legend provides customers risk free energy savings, improves the value of their physical assets, and enhances their sustainability efforts. As an application with demand side benefits, Legend is also a key contributor toward utility conservation goals. Legend was recognized as the top performing cleantech company on the TSX Venture Exchange in 2015. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. Forward-Looking Statements This Press Release may contain statements which constitute 'forward-looking, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company, its directors, or its officers with respect to the future business activities and operating performance of the Company. The words "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "plan", "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect" and similar expressions, as they relate to the Company, or its management, are intended to identify such forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned that any such forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future business activities or performance and involve risks and uncertainties, and that the Company's future business activities may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements as a result of various factors. Such risks, uncertainties and factors are described in the periodic filings with the Canadian securities regulatory authorities, including the Company's quarterly and annual Management's Discussion & Analysis, which may be viewed on SEDAR at www.sedar.com. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking statements prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements other than as may be required by applicable law. SOURCE Legend Power Systems Inc. For further information: Randy Buchamer, CEO and President, + 1 778 945 1501, [email protected]; Steve Vanry, CFO, + 1 604 671 9522, [email protected] Ayodele Dada has made history by graduating from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) with an amazing 5.0 CGPA. In this interview with UNILAG... Ayodele Dada has made history by graduating from the University of Lagos (UNILAG) with an amazing 5.0 CGPA. In this interview with UNILAG Suns MIftaudeen Raji, he reveals the secrets behind his remarkable life. Excerpts: Would you briefly tell us about yourself? my name is Ayodele Daniel Dada. I graduated from department of Psychology, Faculty of Social science, University of Lagos. Im from Ekiti State. We are just two siblings, I have a younger brother. Iam a kind of person who is open to various experiences. I try to experiment a lot and I have tried so many things. I have been into music production in the past. Your educational background? I had primary education and secondary education here in Lagos. My secondary school is Hopebay College, Ajegunle-Apapa, off Lagos-Badagry expressway. We lived close to that area. So after secondary school, it took me a while to decide on what I wanted to do because I had a brief stint learning how to do some bit of IT, bit of network business but it wasnt really serious, it was just on the surface level and I did some French. Im interested in languages especially European languages so I learnt French though Im not efficient at it now. Im also trying to translate that into a bit of music production. Eventually, I read a book that just made me see how psychology can be applied in the real life so it just captured my imagination and I decided that I was going to devote my time to Psychology. Yes, it was difficult at first. For example, when I decided I was going to do Psychology, I devoted three months to preparing to take JAMB/UTME and I really studied hard for it and I wrote the exam, confident that I really did well only to hear some couple of weeks later that my result was seized. I was devastated. That was in the year 2011. They said I cheated or so. I felt sad but I took it as fate. I initially wanted to go through the complaining procedure but it didnt really work out because it was taking too long. I really wanted to resume as quickly as I could and then that was when I took the Diploma option, the foundation programme. That was how I came into UNILAG. How did you finance your programme? It was challenging because of the expense. Meanwhile, at that time, I had been doing several jobs. I worked a bit with my uncle. I did a bit of sales job selling computer accessories for some time. I also did some tutoring, I was teaching some people trying to at least make ends meet for myself and I didnt stop that even when I started my programme at UNILAG. Most of my expenses except one or two occasions, I was taking care of my daily expenses. So, I had to plan my time such that it will not affect my study. Before I was able to get on board the foundation programme, I had to get money from several sources. There were quite a few of family friends who were very helpful. They really came in and stood in for me because I could not take the bill myself. They were so kind because they were ready to help me without any string attached and that was how I started the Diploma programme and then it was challenging because they kept on telling me my name was written in pencil. You are not part of the system. There was even a student in this faculty (FSS) who would just come and tell us :All of you that did this, you are bribing your way into school: and those things just kept on adding to my motivation. But I felt like people have to understand that we did that because of some certain circumstances, it was not as if we had all the money to come and spend. So I started the programme, kept on going through it and I was really driven to succeed in it. What was your standing like at the end of the programme? My first result the first semester, I had 4.55. I had a D in Geography and I tried to ask for what happened because even people who I was tutoring were having Bs and As but they said my CA or part of my exam was not recorded then I said fine, I would work better in the semester. The next semester, I had 4.91, exactly for the second semester. So, the aggregate was like 4.72. Thats for the foundation programme. That was how I gained admission into UNILAG. Could you tell us how many JAMB exams you took? I have taken just two JAMB exams and the reason is that I actually got the admission but it wasnt what I wanted and the thing about me is that if it is not something I really want to do, my motivation is always very poor and I have to commit to the task and once I commit I could actually go to any length to achieve it. The second one was the one that was seized as I said earlier. What about the SSCE exams, how many WAEC did you write? I wrote one and I made it at once. I wasnt the best overall but at least I made everything that was required. Now, how can you describe your study habit? My study habits are not very predictable because I adapt my study habit to whatever that is needed at the time. Take for example, I have a policy of never studying at night but, sometimes I had to change that based on the situation. How were you able to sustain your GP considering how difficult the hurdles could be? I have been asked that question severally and the simple answer I will give is that I never looked at everything on a long term path. I was looking at it from one day to the next. What I mean is I was thinking short term instead of the long term because I know quite a few people who were thinking this is what I want to finish with but then you have that long goal and you are looking at that meanwhile, things are happening right in front of you in short term. I was just preoccupied with winning the short terms. That was where my focus was on. This assignment, do it well; this test, do it well; this current exam, do it well. Do today well because, tomorrow is another today and then it will keep coming. So, just keep doing each they well and when it adds up, then you get to wherever you want to be. What was your relationship with your lecturers likewhile in school? (Cuts in) Yes my relationship with my lecturers were very good. Now you may say its because I was one of their best students but, it doesnt always work that way because I know that there were some people who were also very good.Infact, I have to say that my class was one of the best classes that my department has had in a long time. What you social life like? Yes I go to cinemas. I attend peoples birthdays. Some of my colleagues can attest to that. Im not completely the outdoor type but, of course on occasions I have been to quite a number of functions. I participate in events and activities even though I will not be the main person all the time but, im just there and I try to socialite a lot. I interact with so many people although im not the kind who is always attending every party. I tried to create a blend. How were you able to manage the wave of the social media? For most of the initial years in Psychology, I was only doing social media on my laptop because I felt its easier to control on a laptop because the laptop is not something you are checking all the time. When I got to final year, I decided to change that. So, I got a phone that would enable me monitor the social media and I downloaded all the apps. I told myself I was going to participate seriously in social media and I was quite visible. My class had a whatsapp group chat, I tried to participate in that as well. I tried to be involved. I dont just lock myself away and say because Im studying I wont do that. What can you say on your level of performance in extra-curricular activities? I didnt do much of extra-curricular activities because most of the times I spent my time either tutoring my colleagues or those in the lower level apart from my personal academic work and also collaborating to an extent with some of my lecturers. There was one event I attended with one of my lecturers, she has been very supportive and she has tried to mentor so many young people in the department. We actually went to Enugu State. She was the one who advocated and showed the idea to us. She actually led the contingent where we presented a research to a group of people who are also members of Nigerian Psychology Association and they applauded our effort because, it was a research where basically we were the only undergraduates to present that year. That was November December 2014. So, it was the 50 years anniversary of Psychology in Nigeria. It was something wonderful, I would say that was more of extra-curricular activity for me. I was always in some way connected to curricular activity. When it comes to fellowship or association on campus, did you at one time serve as the leader? Well, I wasnt really part of the fellowship but, the association I participated in and that was in my final year was Impart Your World Leadership Initiative (IYWLI) and there was an event that was organised to inspire leadership and I still have a good rapport with the CEO of the organisation and it was because the event which launched it was the one that really captivated our minds and it was highly inspirational and its something that reshape the academic landscape of this university in times to come so, that was how much I participated as far as association is concerned. Could you also talk about your hobbies? My hobbies include reading. I read quite a number of books, a wide variety of books and some of the books I read I have shown them to some my colleagues and they feel like this is really boring but, If I know that Im going to learn one thing from it Im always interested and I dont finish all the books I pick up. When I pick up a book I read it I get through some parts, if I feel like this is as much as what I want from this book I dont feel obligated to finish the book. I can put the book aside, pick another one and begin to read so, I read a wide variety and thats one of my key hobbies. Then like I said Im also into music production so I do it as a hobby now. I was even as serious as it was then but, now I do it as my hobby and I like board games, strategy games, chess, scrabble, monopoly although Im not extremely good at them but the strategy games I really like are computer strategy games. Apart from academics, were you also into business or other things? I still did a bit of sales job while I was studying Psychology because I had to support myself. It was something I had to do. I had to sell to some of my lecturers, to my colleagues as well and then I was also going to Ikeja because my uncle was the one who really introduce me to it. We would go to Computer Village and even sell in wholesales then I also did a bit of private tutoring. That was one of the key areas I major in. as far as business is concerned, I participated briefly in entrepreneurship challenge although I wasnt the leader but, I just participated to gain some experience. It was organized by Google, some departments in engineering pioneered it in UNILAG and I participated at a point so, it was connected to entrepreneurship where we have to promote particularly a small, start-up business. It was good and a learning experience for me but owning a business and running it, I dont think I have that much time because the demands the academic climate put on me as well as other things I was doing I just make sure that time for such was highly limited. What of your relationship status while in school? No I wasnt in any serious relationship because I read a study that just made me realized that most people who really achieved the strongest grades in their schools were single at the time and I was able to identify with it because for me, when I go into things I go into them fully and when Im in a relationship I want to be able to at least devote time to it and time was one of my major challenges. I always have a lot of things to do and so many things are coming up. I dont want to be in a relationship and it will now suffer because I didnt have enough time for my partner or my girlfriend or something so, I just said I would put that on hold till Im done with my programme. What was your experience with girls generally like? In fact, most of my friends are girls and they are the ones who would call to check up on me. I related well with girls. I seem to be able to connect with them a lot easier because I know that I am a patient person when it comes to listening even though the girl has a lot to say about her life, I would sit down with her and listen even if it took hours. Some of them had challenges and I would give advice and be of help. So, my relationship with girls was quite good, but relationship wise, no, I wasnt into any relationship. How did you get your motivation? From most things I have done, my motivation has always been intrinsic. Im not doing it for anything most people say they are doing this to get that but, I do things for their own sake. For example even though I was doing private tutor, there were times when some people would not pay me completely, yes they would pay part but they wont complete payment. I was passionate about imparting knowledge to them. Its quite brilliant that you are already working. How can you describe your experience at your place of work? My experience at work has been wonderful. I have interacted with some of the best minds at work. These are smart and driven people who will want to win in any way possible as long as it is legal and it is the right thing to do. These are highly principled people who are determined to achieve great things. It has been a great experience. I have to learn things and I have even surprised myself by learning things that I have not even learnt before. Where do you see yourself in the next five to 10 years? By the grace of God, five years horizon, I want to have at least furthered my education. I wont say exactly now at least I want to be somewhere where my expertise, efficiency and certification in my field is a lot higher than it is now. I want to be professional and recognised in my field. Ten years I want to be really distinguished but, five years, I want to be on that path, whatever its I have to achieve the level of distinction in my field not just at this level. I really want to go far. The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State has condemnedGovernor Ayo Fayoses allegation that President Muhammadu Buhari harbour... The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ekiti State has condemnedGovernor Ayo Fayoses allegation that President Muhammadu Buhari harbours an agenda to islamise Nigeria.Fayose reportedly made the statement in Port Harcourt on Friday at a service to mark Rivers State Governor Nyesom Wikes Supreme Court victory.The APC in a statement yesterday by its Publicity Secretary, Taiwo Olatunbosun, described Fayoses latest attack on Buhari as a disgraceful conduct intended to sway public sympathy in his favour.The party said the governors public conduct has made Ekiti people a laughing stock among decent people and has put the state at the receiving end of Nigerians evaluation of Ekiti peoples character.Olatunbosun said Fayoses tirades could be traced to a deliberate scheme to set Nigerians against the President.He said Fayose had a reason for appointing himself opposition leader even when reasonable people know that he is the least qualified for that role based on his uninspiring antecedents.The APC spokesman said the President has been fair to adherents of other religions.If anyone is guilty of religious bigotry, it is Fayose who did not deem it fit to consider Muslims for appointments in his administration, Olatunbosun said.He urged the governor to apply himself to the new spirit of a New Nigeria, where Nigerians live in religious and political harmony.We have always raised the alarm that Fayose is dangerous and a threat to the law.We advise Nigerians to see him as a rabble rouser bent on sabotaging our unity for his private comfort. A Federal High Court in Abuja has remanded a former Minister of Interior, Mr. Abba Moro, and a deputy director in the ministry, F. O Ala... The 2014 Nigeria Immigration Service recruitment, 20 people died A Federal High Court in Abuja has remanded a former Minister of Interior, Mr. Abba Moro, and a deputy director in the ministry, F. O Alayebami, in prison pending the hearing of their bail applications scheduled for Wednesday.Justice Anwuli Chikere on Monday ordered their remand in prison shortly after they were arraigned on11 counts of N675m fraud bordering on the botched March 15, 2014 National Immigration Services recruitment exercise.But the judge allowed one of the accused persons, Mrs. Anastasia Daniel-Nwobia, who is a former Permanent Secretary in the ministry, to continue enjoying the administrative bail granted her by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission on February 22.The EFCC on Monday arraigned Moro, Daniel-Nwobia and Alayebami along with the firm contracted to execute the recruitment exercise, Drexel Tech Nigeria Ltd.The accused persons who were represented by separate lawyers on Monday, pleaded not guilty to the 11 counts, when the charges were read to them.But the company was not represented by anybody and a not-guilty plea was recorded for it.The prosecution accused the defendants of offences bordering on obtaining money by false pretences, procurement fraud and money laundering.The defendants allegedly defrauded graduate applicants of N675,675,000 during the 2014 Nigeria Immigration Service recruitment, during which no fewer than 20 job seekers lost their lives.The EFCC also accused them of defrauding the 675, 675 applicants of N675,675,000.Each of the 676,675 applicants was charged N1,000 each.The defendants allegedly flouted the Public Procurement Act, No. 65 of 2007 in the award of the contract for the organisation of the recruitment test to Drexel Tech Nigeria Ltd.The EFCC also alleged that Drexel EFCC had no prior advertisement and no needs assessment and procurement plan was carried out before the contract was awarded.According to the anti-graft agency, the contract was awarded through selective tendering procedure by invitation of four firms without seeking the approval of the Bureau for Public Procurement.The said act was said to be contrary to sections 40, 42 and 43 of the Public Procurement Act, No. 65 of 2007 and punishable under section 58 of the same Act.After the arraignment on Monday, the lead prosecuting counsel, Mr. Aliyu Yusuf, applied that the accused persons be remanded in prison and also asked the court to give trial dates.But counsel for the the second defendant (Alayebami), Chief Chris Uche (SAN), informed the court that he had filed a bail application on behalf of his client.Yusuf said the bail application was only served on the commission on Friday and thus needed needed time to respond to it.But Uche, who said Alayebami is a nursing mother and a victim of circumstances, urged Justice Chikere to release her on bail pending the hearing of his bail application.The judge granted the application and fixed Wednesday for hearing of the accused persons bail applications. The Presidency on Monday said President Muhammadu Buhari never promised to pay unemployed graduates N5,000 monthly. The Senior Special... The Presidency on Monday said President Muhammadu Buhari never promised to pay unemployed graduates N5,000 monthly.The Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Media and Publicity, Mr. Laolu Akande, said this in an interview with State House correspondents.Akande, whose boss, Vice President Yemi Osinbajo supervises the economy, spoke while reacting to statement credited to Buhari in which the President ruled out the possibility of his government paying N5,000 monthly allowance to unemployed youths in the country as promised by his party, the All Progressives Congress, ahead of the 2015 presidential election.He said the provision the government made in the 2016 Budget currently before the National Assembly is to pay N5,000 monthly to one million extremely poor Nigerians, and not the unemployed graduates.He said the promise to the poor still stands.He explained that a provision for half a trillion naira had been made in the budget for social investment, which he said included the payment for the extremely poor.Akande said, The budget for 2016 which has been submitted to the National Assembly has made an allocation of half a trillion naira, the first time in the history of this countrys budget where you have that huge chunk of money allocated for social investment.In that N500bn which is half a trillion naira, close to about 20 per cent of the entire budget, there are six social safety net programmes.One of them is the Conditional Cash Transfer where government is going to pay N5,000 monthly to the vulnerable and extremely poor Nigerians. That promise stands.The President never promised to pay unemployed graduates N5,000; the President never made that promise and the government never made that claim that it will pay N5,000 to unemployed graduates.The programme for unemployed graduates is the direct creation of half a million teaching jobs so that they will be trained; 500, 000 unemployed graduates will be trained to teach and they will be deployed to teach, while they are looking for their career paths or jobs. That still stands!In addition to that, there is also a scheme to train 370, 000 non-graduate youths for skill acquisition and vocational training. During the time of that training, they will also be paid. Justice Okon Abang of a Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday convicted nine out of the 20 persons charged with pipeline vandalism and k... Justice Okon Abang of a Federal High Court in Lagos on Monday convicted nine out of the 20 persons charged with pipeline vandalism and killing of nine policemen in the Arepo area of Ogun State on May 24, 2014.The judge, however, discharged and acquitted 11 of the accused persons, saying the police failed to substantiate the charges against them.Justice Abang sentenced the nine accused persons he convicted for pipeline vandalism to 12 years imprisonment.He said though the convicts were not found guilty of murder, their action was condemnable, saying they worked to undermine the corporate existence of Nigeria.The convicts are Felix Yayu, 25, Yakubu Ebiwei, 45, Augustine Ebiwei, 28, Owei Atile, 37, Atinuke Odewale, 42, Ijoufaya Legbe, 42, Ahmed Bashorun, 42, Odewale Waheed, 43, and Tuesday Filatei, 36.The judge held, In spite of the genuine efforts made by Federal Government and the Lagos State government to protect the NNPC pipelines, they felt that vandalising the pipelines and killing the policemen sent to guide the pipelines, was best.The facts of this case are miserable, sordid, shameful to remember and ghastly to believe. Even though they have not been convicted of killing the nine policemen, it is not in doubt that they all conspired to do so in cold blood.Imagine one of the convicts, Tuesday Filatei, taking photographs of how the policemen were burnt to ashes. The convicts before me are wicked, heartless and harbingers of evil.The conduct of the convict has reflected the moral decay we find in our society. The convicts sowed the wind and they must harvest the whirlwind.They expect the court to show mercy when they had no mercy for their fellow human beings.A drastic situation requires a drastic solution, and a decision of a court of law, in a situation like this, will act as a deterrent. Even though others will not learn, I have to do my duty.Those discharged and acquitted are Tamara Dembofa, 32, Agbara Tiewei, 43, Rufus Godwin, 45, Tierry Koiyetin, 22, Ebis Sobijoh, 22, Ibori Lawrence, 45, Eberebu Ibori, 30, Susan Vianana, 54, Yellow Yeiyah, 28, Fatai Bolaji, 32, and Ismail Abdullahi, 47.The police had on August 10, 2014 arraigned 20 persons on 14 counts bordering on conspiracy, pipeline vandalism, oil theft and unlawful killings.Some heavily armed, suspected vandals had on the night of May 24, 2014 reportedly stormed the Arepo area of Ogun in about 14 speed boats to carry out an illegal oil bunkering deal. In the process, nine policemen of the policemen, who challenged them were reportedly killed.In the police in the charge filed before justice Abang, gave the names of the slain policemen as ASP Abdullahi Bature, Inspr. Raymond Oriere, Inspr. Usman Mohammed, Inspr. Oguntihemen Kolawole, Inspr. Tijani Jimoh, CPL Elogbamen Timothy, CPL Yakubu Aliyu, CPL Usman Abdukarim and CPL Dauda Mohammed.Those arraigned by the police were said to have acted contrary to Sections 3(6), 7(b), 17(a) and 4(a) of the Miscellaneous Offence Act Cap M17 Laws of the Federation, 2004 and Section 319 of the Criminal Code Cap C38 Laws of the Federation, 2004. The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB has warned those who are claiming to be representing them, including members of Ohaneze Ndigbo and... The Indigenous People of Biafra, IPOB has warned those who are claiming to be representing them, including members of Ohaneze Ndigbo and its youth wing Ohaneze Youths Wing, negotiating for the release of its leader and Director of Radio Biafra, Mr. Nnamdi Kanu to stop such move, that nobody speaks or represent them, unless such person or persons are designated officers of its organisation.The group also said that its leader Mr. Kanu has said that he will rather die in jail that the Ohaneze Ndigbo to claim the glory of his release, saying he has no business with the Igbo Socio cultural Organization.I will rather die in jail than for Ohaneze Ndigbo to claim the glory of my release, he said IPOB in a statement by its United kingdom spokesmen, Dr Clifford Iroanya and Emma Mmezu, a lawyer said we are in court and our wish is to expose the fraudulent charge of treasonable felony before the whole world.At the end of this case the corrupt and compromised segment of the Nigerian judiciary will be publicly disgraced. Our march to freedom is unstoppable; this is something Buhari ought to know. We have come to die for Biafra if that is what it will take to be free.Our resolve should not be underestimated. As our leader will always say, Nigeria will kill us, we will kill them but in the end we will win IPOB reaction follows an alarm raised from Enugu yesterday by some of their members that some people suspected to be Ohaneze Ndigbo and their youth wing Ohaneze Ndigbo Youths Wing were impersonating their leaders in Enugu, claiming to be representing them in meeting with some American Officials who were in Nigeria to have a meeting with IPOB on the release of their leader and what they want be done to them for peace to reign, which they said needs their designated officers presence and contribution, but they were not informed, but the people went ahead to speak for IPOB when they do not have the powers and authorization of the group to speak for them.Some people alleged to be members of the Ohaneze Ndigbo and Ohaneze Youth wing were said to had met with some Americans, at Nike Lake Resort Hotel between 6pm and 7pm Saturday evening. Nigeria has donated 15 Hilux vehicles and 100 motorcycles to the Independent National Electoral Commission of Benin Republic to enable it... Nigeria has donated 15 Hilux vehicles and 100 motorcycles to the Independent National Electoral Commission of Benin Republic to enable it conduct credible presidential election.The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bulus Lolo, who presented the items in Cotonou, said free, peaceful and credible election in the neighbouring country was of interest to Nigeria.The presidential elections will hold on March 6 and 36 candidates will contest, according to News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).Lolo encouraged the people of Benin and the electoral commission to conduct the elections in a transparent and credible manner.Nigeria and Benin are neighbours; what happens in Benin is of immediate impact and interest to Nigeria and what happens in Nigeria has impact and is of interest to Benin.Besides, we are one and the same separated by colonial rule and because of this separation with a borderline; we tend to think we are different people.Therefore, our being here today to support the electoral process in Benin is a clear demonstration of our solidarity, brotherhood and friendship, he said.According to him, Nigeria wants to share its experience with Benin to encourage the people that there is no alternative to democratic governance.You are witnesses to the landmark change that took place in Nigeria in 2015, following the election of President Muhammadu Buhari in a peaceful, transparent and legitimate election without rancour.That election in Nigeria was a landmark because for the first time, a ruling party that had been in power for 16 years, was voted out of office.Through the free will of the Nigerian people, the election ushered in an opposition party for the first time, he said.Lolo, however, said the peaceful change could not have been possible were it not for the courageous and independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).He said: Today, the support we are rendering to Benin is to enable the Commission Electorale Nationale Autonome (CENA) stand firm and ensure that the votes of the people count.The President of CENA, Tiando Emmanuel, hailed Nigerias support to Benin, saying the donation will assist the electoral body to enhance its performance.The quality of relationship between Nigeria is demonstrated by the frequent meetings existing between the two countries.During the last meeting with INEC, I told the INEC chairman that Nigeria is the elder brother of Benin and the elder brother cannot abandon the younger brother.This gesture will allow CENA to reach the farthest parts of Benin during the election and will reinforce our democracy in Benin and democratic values in Africa, Emmanuel said.Nigerias Ambassador to Benin Dr. Lawrence Obisakin hailed Buharis leadership quality, saying he had supported democracy in Africa since he assumed office. The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, says the country is in a difficult but encouraging situation.... The National Leader of the All Progressives Congress, Asiwaju Bola Tinubu, says the country is in a difficult but encouraging situation.Tinubu said although the journey to economic recovery would not be easy, there was hope for the country.This was contained in a speech he delivered on Saturday after receiving a honourary Doctor of Business degree at the 15th- 20th convocation ceremony of the University of Abuja.He said, Nigeria stands in the corridor between greatness and failure; between progress and collapse; between hope and despair. Our fate depends on whether we would summon the courage to take the bold steps and move in the direction. We must turn our present challenges into opportunities for the reengineering of our nations economic challenges.The APC leader, however, noted that Nigeria needed some fundamental restructuring, both politically and economically, in order to actualise the desired change.Tinubu advocated a return to agriculture, noting that a vibrant agriculture sector would produce enough food for domestic consumption and for export, while creating more jobs.He also reiterated his confidence in the Federal Governments commitment to a new era of discipline and prosperity.He added, If you ask me to describe the state of the nation, I would say it is a difficult but encouraging one. We are emerging from a period of great moral uncertainty, where vice and virtue were too often indistinguishable and too often confused, one for the other.The journey we have embarked upon will not be easy. It requires all of us to make sacrifices and persevere until we achieve. Nigeria needs some fundamental restructuring, both politically and economically; not the constant tinkering and patch-patch we often resort to.We must therefore begin with fundamentally restructuring of the economy if we are to rid ourselves of joblessness.While commending the university for its achievements and the award, Tinubu said despite the challenges of infrastructure and funding, the University of Abuja must not compromise its academic standard.The university must seek to pursue initiatives that will make it overcome the ever present and common limitations, he stressed. The House of Representatives has put on hold its plans to purchase 360 exotic cars for its members. Investigations by our corresponden... The House of Representatives has put on hold its plans to purchase 360 exotic cars for its members.Investigations by our correspondent showed that the funds to prosecute the purchase remained the main drawback for the House in taking a final decision on the controversial utility or committee cars.Funding for the cars will come from the 2016 budget. As you are aware, the budget has not been passed. The passage of the budget will decide how much will be available for vehicles, a House official stated in Abuja.It was also learnt that the House had yet to decide on the brand of cars to buy for the lawmakers, who were split on whether to settle for Peugeot 508 saloon cars or the 2015 model of Toyota Camry.Peugeot Automobile Nigeria Limited reportedly started advertising the 508 series to lawmakers since December 2015 in a bid to get them to patronise the local assembly plant.The firm was said to have sent catalogues to the House to promote the features of the 508 series.One senior member of the House told revealed that the cars had not been bought, but insisted that the House would make the purchase at the appropriate time.The source added, Look, all these talks will not stop us from buying our utility vehicles. We havent bought the vehicles because there is no money yet.We are going to buy the cars at the appropriate time. If a minister, who is junior in the order protocol to a legislator, has up to four Land Cruiser SUVs as officials vehicles, why do people think that just one Camry or Peugeot 508 is too much for a member?What is the uproar about? That a member is asking to buy a Camry to use for oversight duties is too big?The Chairman, House Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Mr. Abdulrazak Namdas, said the House had neither ordered nor taken delivery of the controversial vehicles.Namdas confirmed that the House would buy the cars when funding was available after the passage of the budget.I think this car issue has generated too much hues and cries. The House has not bought any cars for now.We will buy cars and the public will know about it because there is nothing to hide, really, he added.It can be recalled that eminent Nigerians had criticised the Senate for defying Nigerians, including President Muhammadu Buhari, by going ahead to buy the exotic vehicles, put at about N4.7bn.Those who flayed the Senate included the Chairman of the Presidential Advisory Committee Against Corruption, Prof. Itse Sagay (SAN); Senator Femi Okurounmu and Dr. Junaid Mohammed.The contractor in charge of delivering the vehicles, Lanre Shittu Motors claimed to have delivered a lot of vehicles to the Senate.The Group Executive Director, Lanre Shittu Motors, Mr. Taiwo Shittu, in an interview with newsmen, stated that a lot of deliveries had been made to the Senate.The Special Adviser, Media and Publicity, to the Senate President, Alhaji Yusuph Olaniyonu, had, in a statement on Saturday, stated that only one new vehicle had changed in the convoy of his principal, Dr. Bukola Saraki.Olaniyonu, explained that the new vehicle, a Mercedes Benz, was meant to replace the old spare car in the convoy that the Senate President inherited and had been using since he assumed office in June last year. Nigerians are planning to boycott banking activities on Tuesday, to protest exorbitant deductions by banks, activities on social media a... Tomorrow is #NoBankingDay . Let's protest the illegal charges made by banks from us by boycotting banking activities pic.twitter.com/LaWWfpSt1A February 29, 2016 I need someone with some numbers to explain how #NoBankingDay won't work if we all just withdraw money the day before. February 29, 2016 To protest against the 'crazy' bank charges, Nigerians are being urged not to bank at all tomorrow. Will you be a part of it? @Gidi_Traffic February 29, 2016 Nigerians are planning to boycott banking activities on Tuesday, to protest exorbitant deductions by banks, activities on social media are indicating.Consumer Advocacy Foundation of Nigeria, a not-for-profit group dedicated to advocacy for consumer rights and protection in Africas largest consumer market is leading the protest.According to a petition posted on CAFONs website by the organisations president, Sola Salako, the #NoBankingDay is aimed at pressuring Nigerian banks to review their charges downwards. The group is also calling for a review of bank forms and contracts to include more protection for consumers and for consumer complaints to be resolved promptly and satisfactorily.Other demands are that banks must clear fees with consumers before debiting their accounts and that CBN must review the new Stamp Duty Charge, Account Maintenance Charge and Debit Card Maintenance Fees.March 1 is No Banking Day Protest against excessive bank charges Dear Nigerian Banks Consumers For many years now, consumers of banking services have been subject to series of poor and unsatisfactory transaction and relationship terms, Salako said in the post.We have endured excessive charges, illegal fees and unfair contracts that only protect the bank but do not protect the consumers.Banks debit our accounts at will for charges we never agreed to or were not aware of; they charge us for every little service; we pay for getting our statements; introduction letters; and now, some banks are charging N200 for the use of deposit and transfer forms!Salako noted that under the current CBN management, abolished fees are being reintroduced.ATM withdrawals that were free now cost N65 on 3rd withdrawals, she said. We pay N1000 for debit card issuance and renewals; we pay N105 for every online transfer; and they still charge N105 as Annual Debit Card Maintenance and now, a new Stamp Duty charge of N50 on every credit of over N1000 has just been introduced.COT that was supposed to end finally in 2016 is now being reintroduced as 1% of every withdrawal purportedly as Monthly Current Account Maintenance Fees!She said the exploitation has become unbearable and has necessitated speaking out by consumers.That is why CAFON, a consumer rights NGO is calling consumers to join us in protest against banking exploitation by declaring Tuesday, March 1 2016 as NO BANKING DAY! Salako said.See what Nigerians are saying about the protest on twitter SOMERS POINT -- An Atlantic City law firm is talking to two clients but expect more to come forward who were potentially exposed to HIV and hepatitis at Shore Medical Center for a class action lawsuit. Frederick P. McLeish, 53, of Egg Harbor Township, is charged with theft of drugs from Shore Medical Center. (Atlantic County Justice Facility) The alleged negligence of a former Shore Medical Center pharmacist may have exposed 213 patients to HIV and hepatitis. The hospital informed patients of the possible exposure through letters sent to them. Frederick P. McLeish, 53, of Egg Harbor Township, will appear in court March 7 for a status conference for allegedly taking morphine vials intended for patients and replacing it with saline solution. McLeish was suspended in September 2014 and arrested on Jan. 21, 2016. He was charged with drug tampering, theft by unlawful taking and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. McLeish's attorney John Zarych declined to comment on the matter as of Monday afternoon. GMS Law is putting together the class action lawsuit against Shore Medical Center. The status of the class action lawsuit is pending the determination of a judge. According to GMS Law attorney Mark Pfeffer, the hospital violated the Pure Food and Drug Ac, which protects consumers from tainted drugs. Claims in the lawsuit also involve McLeish's employment and the hospital's delay in notifying patients of their possible exposure to HIV, hepatitis B or hepatitis C. According to a Shore Medical Center spokesman, the hospital does not comment on pending litigation but all employees are mandated to follow strict policies when it comes to treating patients. Shore Medical Center officials are notifying 213 patients that are at risk due to an employee's violation of hospital protocol, according to spokesman Brian Cahill. The investigation period is between June 1, 2013 and Sept. 17, 2014. Officials originally began investigating between July 1, 2014, and Sept. 17, 2014 but, as a precaution, the timeframe was expanded. According to the state Department of Health, the hospital is providing the testing for patients. The tests will be free of charge, according to the hospital. According to public records, McLeish surrendered his New Jersey pharmacist license in 2002 after stealing pain medicine from a CVS where he worked. The license was reinstated in 2004. Ever since first getting his license in Pennsylvania in 1986, McLeish was disciplined multiple times over the decades for various reasons, including a sting in rehabilitation for substance abuse. He surrendered his New Jersey license on December 2014. Staff writer Anthony Medina contributed to this report. Don E. Woods may be reached at dwoods@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @donewoods1. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook. crash2.jpg JohnCarlos Y. Espinal, 24, of Marietta, Ga., crashed his uninsured, unregistered car into a van on the GWB before getting out and running, according to police. (Port Authority Police Department) ( ) FORT LEE A motorist who crashed into a van on the George Washington Bridge before jumping out and leading police on a foot chase through traffic had his license suspended twice in two states, authorities said Monday. (Port Authority Police Department) JohnCarlos Y. Espinal, 24, of Marietta, Ga. drove a 2008 Lexus to the bridge tolls in Fort Lee about 3:30 p.m. Friday. "The Lexus had no license plates and passed through the toll lane without payment," police said in a statement. A Port Authority police officer on duty at the bridge activated his emergency lights and siren, using the vehicle's public address system to tell the driver to pull over. The driver sped off onto the lower level of the bridge and struck the rear of a van near the New York tower, police said. The suspect got out of the car and ran through traffic on the bridge before he was caught, police said. A computer check showed Espinal's license had been suspended in New York and in Georgia, police said. Espinal faces charges in New York and in New Jersey, including reckless endangerment, aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle, leaving the scene of an accident, no insurance and unregistered vehicle. Anthony G. Attrino may be reached at tattrino@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @TonyAttrino. Find NJ.com on Facebook. CHERRY HILL TWP. -- A 17-year-old boy was shot and killed early Sunday morning in South Jersey after a party altercation, authorities said. Jadyre Gordon, of Camden, was one of two victims who were shot at roughly 2:24 a.m. at the Inn of the Dove, located off Cuthbert Boulevard, according to the Camden County Prosecutor's Office. Gordon died from his injuries at Cooper University Hospital. The second victim, a 20-year-old Willingboro man, was taken to Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital and was later released. Authorities responded to the Inn of the Dove for reports of the shooting. The two victims were taken by private vehicle to nearby hospitals. Gordon was pronounced dead at 3:37 a.m., police said. Authorities determined that the two victims were shot inside a vehicle in the parking lot near the front entrance of the inn following an altercation at a party in one of the rooms. The Camden County Prosecutor's Office is still investigating the shooting. No arrests have been made. Anyone with information is urged to contact the Camden County Prosecutor's Office Det. Jim Brining at 856-225-8439 or Cherry Hill Police Det. Ed Williams at 856-488-7828. Brittany Wehner may be reached at bwehner@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @brittanymwehner. Find the South Jersey Times on Facebook. A renewed national focus on reducing carbon pollution which has been attributed to worldwide climate change has Louisiana businesses homegro The federal government plans to pour $125 million into the fight against a mysterious disease that has ravaged corals in Florida and much of the Caribbean, and now poses a dire threat to the treasured reefs off the Louisiana and Texas coasts. WASHINGTON (AP) The House committee investigating the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol has issued a subpoena to Donald Trump. The nine-member panel sent a letter to the former president's lawyers on Friday, demanding his testimony under oath by mid-November and outlining a series of corresponding documents. The decision by lawmakers to exercise their subpoena power comes a week after the committee made its final case against the former president, who they say is the "central cause" of the multi-part effort to overturn the results of the 2020 election. It remains unclear how Trump and his legal team will respond to the subpoena, if at all. Maison Vale applauds $75M bump to palliative care The Ontario Budget 2016 contains a significant new investment in community hospice palliative care. Leo Therrien, the executive director of Maison Vale Hospice, said increased provincial funding for palliative care services is becoming increasingly important as the Baby Boomer generation continues to age. File photo The Ontario Budget 2016 contains a significant new investment in community hospice palliative care. Ontario Finance Minister Charles Sousa announced the province will invest an additional $75 million over the next three years to support community palliative care and residential hospices. The new funding will bring the total annual investment in the sector to $155 million. We want to thank the government for recognizing the need and the benefits, and for providing additional support for community based hospice palliative care, said Dr. Kevin McCormick, chair of the Maison Vale Hospice board. "The aging population is driving a sharp increase in the need for appropriate, cost effective end of life care." Hospice Palliative Care Ontario (HPCO), which represents visiting and residential hospices, will continue to work with the government in the coming weeks to determine specific investments, a press release stated. The funding increase will help the province reach its target of funding 20 additional hospices, including in rural areas. Hospice palliative care in Ontario is most often a community driven initiative, supported by local donors and volunteers, said Leo Therrien, executive director of Maison Vale Hospice. "The increase in government support is much needed to ensure we can meet the inevitable demand for care." With the aging population, the demand for care could overwhelm the health care system unless we expand access to hospice palliative care now. Co-ordinated community end-of-life care can prevent costly and often unnecessary hospital visits and stays. In a recent report, the Ontario's auditor general noted it costs at least twice as much to fund hospital beds than it does to fund a residential hospice bed. Greater Sudbury under snow squall warning Environment Canada has issued a snow squall warning for Greater Sudbury and vicinity. Brief, intense snowfall is occurring, the warning, issued at around 11:30 a.m. Monday reads. Environment Canada has issued a snow squall warning for Greater Sudbury and vicinity. File photo. Environment Canada has issued a snow squall warning for Greater Sudbury and vicinity. Brief, intense snowfall is occurring, the warning, issued at around 11:30 a.m. Monday reads. Visibilities will be rapidly reduced due to the heavy snow combined with blowing snow. A frontal snow squall band over Thessalon is moving rapidly eastward through the warned areas and will move through Sudbury just after the noon hour. The snow squall conditions are expected to last less than one hour at any particular location. Gusts to 80 kilometres per hour and zero visibility are expected. Road closures have been reported by Ontario Provincial Police between Sault Ste Marie and Thessalon. Prepare for quickly changing and deteriorating travel conditions. Visibility may be significantly and suddenly reduced to near zero. Snow squall warnings are issued when bands of snow form that produce intense accumulating snow or near zero visibilities. The Sisters of St. Joseph presented Awards for Excellence to employees at three local care homes in early February. The Sisters of St. Joseph presented Awards for Excellence to employees at three local care homes in early February. The Awards for Excellence were presented to individuals chosen by their peers as examples of commitment to living out the organizations mission of Caring ... beyond the moment with service, integrity, dignity and excellence. This year's recipients are: St. Josephs Health Centre Michelle Edwards, Food Services Manager St. Josephs Continuing Care Centre Carson Frattini, Building Services Assistant Tiffany St. Germain, Registered Practical Nurse St. Josephs Villa Karla Newcombe, Personal Care Assistant Dawson Steen, Life Enrichment Assistant Louise Quenville, Environmental Services Assistant Melanie Seguin, Registered Nurse Villa St. Gabriel Villa Angie Brunet, Receptionist Sheree Landry, Environmental Services Assistant Ruth Ladouceur, Registered Nurse At St. Josephs Health Centre, we believe that it is important to recognize and celebrate people within our organization who strive to express healing love through care, compassion, and concern for the people we serve, said St. Joseph's Health Centre CEO Jo-Anne Palkovits, in a press release. We do this by demonstrating the spirit and charisma of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Sault Ste. Marie who have exemplified these values in the Sudbury community since 1950 through their work of unity and reconciliation. EVANSTON, Ill. Long known as the worlds biggest jailer, the United States is experimenting with prison reform. Californias prison downsizing experiment is the nation's largest. But Republican states are the ones leading the way, according to Northwestern University professor Heather Schoenfeld, who is investigating why states are seeking reform and how these efforts might help the U.S. reverse mass incarceration. In the March issue of The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, Schoenfeld argues that while California was implementing its reforms, states with far more conservative credentials, like Texas and Georgia, were pushing forward with their own unmandated effortsperhaps even aided by the rise of the Tea Party and its mistrust of big government. Mass incarceration is essentially a big government program, said Schoenfeld, a faculty associate at Northwesterns Institute for Policy Research and assistant professor of legal studies and human development and social policy. These Republican-dominated states have set reforms into motion that aim to save money by sending less people to prison and investing in rehabilitative programs to reduce recidivism. In an earlier era, these efforts might have been derided as soft on crime. Schoenfeld, a leading scholar on criminal punishment systems, has been researching how some states are responding to the issue and the take-home lessons for other states that are not. The question Im interested in is, How are states making these policy decisions now? Schoenfeld said. The current issue of The ANNALS represents the first effort by scholars to systematically and scientifically examine what has been described as the biggest criminal justice experiment ever conducted in America. Less than five percent of the worlds population lives in the U.S., but America houses 25 percent of the worlds inmates. Over the last decade, lower crime rates, shrinking state budgets and the ballooning costs of caring for more and more inmates have pushed states both red and blue to seek prison reforms. In 2011, the U.S. Supreme Court ordered California to reduce its prison population to comply with constitutional standards. California underwent Realignment, which transferred lower-level offenders from state prisons to county systems. The law produced drastic changes in the population and operation of county jail facilities. And thanks to $1 billion in annual state funding, it has led all 58 of Californias counties to experiment on how best to deal with the affected inmates, according to University of California, Irvine researchers Charis Kubrin and Carroll Seron, also writing in the current issue of The ANNALS. Schoenfeld hopes her research framework will lead to a better understanding of why a state like Georgia has embarked on a series of reforms, but not Florida, which is one of those states where reform is moving very, very slowly, she said. However, even in states like California and Georgia, passing reforms is just half the battle, according to Schoenfeld. In her article, she calls for more research into the implementation of reforms and the measurement of their effectsnot only to identify changes to costs and prison populations, but to assess whether they really reduce the size and scope of criminal punishment. After all, she cautions, policymakers consciously created mass incarceration by expanding prison terms for an increasing number of crimes. But the new reforms have done little to address the collateral consequences for families and communities. EVANSTON, Ill. --- Northwestern University senior Jessie Moravek has been named a Luce Scholar to live and work in Asia, where she will investigate how people and cultures are impacted by environmental change. Moravek, who studies environmental science and biology at Northwesterns Weinberg College of Arts & Sciences, was one of 18 young American leaders chosen from 162 candidates. She is the 10th Northwestern student to win the prestigious award from the Henry Luce Foundation. The Luce Scholarship will give me an international perspective on issues such as climate change and water resource availability, Moravek said. Moving forward, this global view will help me tackle large scale environmental problems with creativity and innovation. Moravek is especially interested in connecting with people and bringing the human element into her scientific research. During a summer internship at a national forest in Utah, where she analyzed the quality and amount of groundwater for grazing, mining and oil drilling, she experienced firsthand the tension between scientists and local residents. The more I talked to people about their perspectives, the better I was able to apply my research in the community, she wrote in her application letter. "For instance, it was easier to talk to ranchers about water and grazing restrictions if I recognized the historic conflicts between ranchers and federal, state and tribal governments over water in the region. The Utah internship taught Moravek that the balance between ecosystem conservation and human needs is a critical component of environmental research, she said. In Asia, Moravek hopes to better understand and communicate different ideologies behind environmental issues, which will be critical to her future environmental research. Raised in the Chicago suburb of St. Charles, Moravek grew up camping and backpacking. She used her love of music to learn about cultures and customs in different environments. In addition to assessing water quality in Utah oilfields, she worked in a carbon laboratory at Northwestern to identify carbon sources that may contribute to climate change. She also spent a semester studying salt marsh ecology at the Marine Biological Laboratory in Woods Hole, Massachusetts. Through an NOAA Ernest F. Hollings Scholarship, Moravek studied salmon conservation in Seattle, Washington. She presented this work at the Hollings Scholar Symposium in Washington, D.C. and a poster at the American Geophysical Union 2015 Fall Meeting, and she is using the collected data for a senior thesis about salmon habitat restoration. Throughout her research experiences, Moravek has worked to connect with people and their communities. She writes for the campus nature magazine In Our Nature and advises younger environmental students. She is also plays the mellophone in the Northwestern University Marching Band and the viola in the Philharmonia Orchestra. EVANSTON, Ill. --- Northwestern University students and members of the public are invited to a NASA Twins Study homecoming viewing party on Tuesday, March 1, as astronaut Scott Kelly returns to Earth, where he and his twin brother are expected to make science history. This is an entirely new type of NASA study, integrating multiple data types to gain unprecedented insights into how spaceflight impacts human health and biology, said one study leader Fred Turek, a professor of biology and director of Northwesterns Center for Sleep and Circadian Biology. The viewing party -- cleverly themed by the host scientists around space food like Moon Pies and Tang -- will begin at 3 p.m. and continue until after the astronauts scheduled undocking from the space station at about 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 1, in the Pancoe Auditorium, 2200 Campus Drive, Evanston. All are welcome, including the general public. Space-appropriate refreshments will be served. The gathering will celebrate the astronauts return after almost a year in space and the start of a unique scientific journey for Northwesterns Fred Turek and Martha Vitaterna, who are conducting research of identical twin astronauts Scott and Mark Kelly. Scott Kellys twin brother, former NASA astronaut Mark Kelly, participated in parallel twin studies on Earth to help scientists compare the effects on the body and mind in space. Scott Kelly launched to the space station March 27, 2015, from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan and is set to return on Tuesday, March 1. He will land in Kazakhstan along with cosmonauts Mikhail Kornienko and Sergey Volkov of the Russian space agency Roscosmos. After landing, Kelly will hold the record among U.S. astronauts for cumulative time in space, with a total of 520 days, as well as the longest duration mission. During the record-setting mission, Kelly participated in a number of studies to provide new insights into how the human body adjusts to weightlessness, isolation, radiation and the stress of long-duration spaceflight, which will inform plans for the Journey to Mars. The Northwestern-led research team is one of 10 NASA-funded groups across the country studying Scott and Mark Kelly to learn how living in space for a long period of time -- such as a mission to Mars -- affects the human body. Northwestern scientists Turek and Martha Hotz Vitaterna, in collaboration with researchers from the University of Illinois at Chicago and Rush University Medical School, will explore how the space environment affects the microbiota ecosystem in the human gastrointestinal (GI) tract. When humans travel to space, they don't go alone, said Vitaterna, research associate professor and deputy director of the Center for Sleep and Circadian Biology. Each one brings along trillions of microscopic friends -- beneficial bacteria that inhabit our bodies. When we welcome Scott back to Earth, we will also welcome back his microbiota. We're interested in how the microbiota may have changed as Scott adapted to spaceflight. HEBRON When you walk into Classroom 16 at Porter Lakes Elementary School and see students playing with a bean bag or rolling around on the floor, it may look like they are just having fun. But the youngsters are participating in Minds in Motion, a process that educators say allows them to develop essential skills to later benefit them in the classroom. Minds in Motion is a set of 15 exercises to improve sensory development and motor skills. It was created more than 10 years ago by Candace Meyer, a reading specialist, when she worked in Scottsburg, Indiana. Program Director Carolyn James said it now is used in school districts all over the United States. Last year, teachers from Porter Lakes Elementary School attended two Minds in Motion workshops hosted by United Way of Porter County. Meyer, the author of The Minds in Motions Maze Handbook, was guest speaker. Porter Lakes Principal Kevin Donnell said teachers are enthusiastic about the program. "We began implementing the maze soon after," he said. "We received a grant from United Way of Porter County in the summer of 2015. The grant awarded us equipment to use in our maze as well as assessment tools to track student progress." Donnell said the school, which has 356 students in kindergarten through third grade, is using the maze with all grade levels. They started in January 2015. I have observed teachers working with students to increase motor skills as well as visual and auditory processing abilities. We are learning more and more about each of our students through this process and seeing the benefits as well, Donnell said. Porter Lakes kindergarten teacher Kristin Mucha said it's a great way to give youngsters extra movement during the day. Each session is about 20 minutes long. Each station has a different function. "Some students may be walking on a long wooden board; it helps them to balance," Mucha said. "In the classroom, it also helps them with spacing letters and numbers on a line, the size and consistency of letters and staying in between the lines on paper. The balance motion helps them with the motor control in these areas." With the jelly roll, students roll on their side on a mat, which stimulates the brain and helps students perceive the spacial orientation of an object or line of print. The strong arm push, where students put their hands on the wall and push back, helps them to develop fine motor control and handwriting skills. The bean bag boogie exercise develops eye-hand coordination, focusing and eye tracking, and helps increase writing ability and computer work. "They can get some of those wiggles out in a meaningful way and come back into the classroom and focus on learning," Mucha said. "So many of our students don't go outside as much to play, especially in the winter. They can get the break they need and at the same time stimulate their brain." The United States started to impose more tariffs on steel imports last year after they captured an unprecedented 29 percent of U.S. market share, causing thousands of layoffs and mill idlings nationwide. Those tariffs appear to now be having an impact. Import market share dropped to 26 percent in January in the United States, according to preliminary U.S. Census Bureau data. Its been trending downward after hitting a high of 33 percent in February 2015. The United States imported 2.57 million net tons of steel last month, a steep 41 percent drop from January 2015, according to the American Iron and Steel Institute. That included 2.2 million net tons of finished steel that doesnt require any further processing in America, a 38 percent plunge from the same period a year earlier. Despite the dramatic year-over-year drops, imports of steel rose 10 percent in January over December. Imports of finished steel were up 8.8 percent last month, as compared to the previous month. Hot-rolled sheet imports dropped 29.8 percent in January, as compared to January 2015, the American Iron and Steel Institute reported. Imports of cold-rolled sheets were down 39.5 percent year-over-year, while plates in coil were down 36.2 percent. In January, most imports came from Turkey, South Korea, Japan, Brazil, and Germany. Turkey shipped 244,000 tons of steel to the United States, a 34 percent increase over December, while South Korea sent over 241,000 tons, a 3 percent increase over the previous month. HOBART Although the Hobart community remains in an uproar about the possibility of an immigrant detention facility in the city, Hobart Mayor Brian Snedecor said the company has not contacted him and there are no immediate plans to build a prison. About three years ago, the Florida-based GEO Group, Inc., a private company that runs prison facilities, purchased land in Hobart, leading to speculation that the firm could be planning a detention center in Hobart. The land lies along Hobart's western corridor near Robinson Lake and Interstate 65, just north of 61st Avenue. The company also owns land in Gary near the Gary airport. Gary Mayor Karen Freeman-Wilson, who initially supported the idea of a detention facility, withdrew her support in November when that community came out against the idea. On Sunday, the Concerned Citizens of Hobart presented an open community forum to update the community regarding the detention center. They said the GEO Group still wants to build an immigrant detention facility in Hobart, and is awaiting authorization from Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Washington. Hobart residents continue to rally opposing the plan. Snedecor said there is really nothing new right now. "If GEO ever wanted to do anything with that land, it would have to be rezoned and there would need to be public hearings," he said during a break in the meeting. "There is nothing they could do in the immediate future. They have not shown any interest in wanting to do anything with the land but they also refuse to talk to me," Snedecor said. "I've sent them a couple of letters suggesting they sell the property, and they haven't responded." The forum's featured speaker Fred Tsao, policy director for the Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights, said immigrant is a hot topic nationally and locally. He said private organizations like the GEO make millions of dollars from immigration prisons, focused on the fact there is a steady stream of immigrants into the United States. "In 2015, GEO had net revenue of $512 million," he said. "Millions of immigrants get deported each year but they sit in prisons for months first. The immigration bond is high and they are required to pay 100 percent of the bond, not just a percentage of it. "Children from Central America have been crossing the border into the U.S. because of threats in their own country. They seek refuge in the United States and these kids and their families are being incarcerated. Who benefits? These private companies." Tsao also said the conditions in privately operated prisons are bad for the detainees and for the workers who are paid less than what prison guards and others are paid in public prisons. "All of that leads to high turnover in these private prisons, poor discipline, low morale and they are ill-prepared to deal with an emergency," Tsao said. CROWN POINT Following another heated debate over just what constitutes the Williamsburg style of architecture, the city's Plan Commission is going to consider adopting more definite guidelines based on those actually used in Williamsburg, Virginia. Michael Matthys, vice president of Lindengroup architectural consultant for the Coyne Veterinary Center planned for 109th Avenue and Broadway, presented revised plans for the clinic and boarding facility at a recent commission meeting. Matthys tried to show how the building's style was compatible with the existing buildings in the Broadway corridor, which are supposed to be in the Williamsburg style. The plans were altered after criticism from commission members in January that it was a nice building, but it wasn't in the Williamsburg style. The new plan added more red brick to the sides of the building and a few other touches Matthys said were present in other buildings in the corridor. Mayor David Uran submitted design standards taken from Williamsburg, Virginia, to the commission prior to Matthys presentation and said the revised clinic plans would be approved by Williamsburg. "We did a lot of investigation on the Williamsburg style," Uran said. "We have looked at that as something we would like to see for that corridor. We would like the buildings to complement each other. The Coyne plans would be approved based on the Williamsburg guidelines." The only change requested by Councilmen Chad Jeffries, in whose ward the clinic will be built, and Scott Evorik were that the fence around the boarding facility's outdoor play area be of brick and not PVC or wood. Matthys agreed that would be done. That was not enough for commission member Dan Rohaley or Councilwoman Laura Sauerman. Both said most of the pictures provided of possible designs before the overall project was approved matched the Williamsburg style and no discussion would be needed. Instead, Rohaley said it was like a "bait-and-switch" maneuver with a design that was nothing like the Williamsburg style. If approved, Rohaley said the city might as well tear up the corridor standards. "For me, this is not even near it," Rohaley said. Sauerman said, "My concern is that you are determined to put this building in a corridor with specific design standards. It's a gorgeous building, but it's just not compatible with the others. I can see the people we held to those standards coming in and complaining. I'm really discouraged. "When we set the Williamsburg standards, we were trying to establish a sense of timelessness and consistency," she said. "In 15 or 20 years we are going to look back and say this is so 2015." Uran said he could understand their passion but cautioned the standards in the city's resolution are vague and the actual Williamsburg, Virginia, guidelines allow for evolution of the designs rather than trying to replicate the 17th century look in everything. Matthys said, "I'm not going to say this is the Williamsburg style, but I will say it is compatible. The materials we will use all the way through will raise the bar." The plans were approved 5-2, with Rohaley and Sauerman opposed. Dr. John Coyne said he hopes to start construction in April and be ready to open in November. The commission agreed to study the Williamsburg, Virginia, guidelines for possible action next month. PORTAGE Bert Fekete remembers the early days of the Portage Fire Department. "We had roll away beds in the garage that were up against the wall," said Fekete, who was the ninth person hired on as a paid, career Portage firefighter. There were two pieces of equipment, an engine and a high pressure truck that would go on calls. If there was a medical call, they'd send out the 1956 Ford to help before an ambulance arrived. The Portage Fire Department was officially born on March 1, 1966. Before then the growing community that had just been organized as a town less than a decade before was covered by an all-volunteer fire department. But the town, which sought city status in 1967, was growing, said Sammie Maletta. He and Leif Tuft and Maynard Ackley were appointed as the town's first board of fire commissioners. "The town was growing and developing and they felt they needed full-time coverage," recalled Maletta, who served on the fire commission until he was appointed a member of the City Council and then served three terms as Portage mayor. The commission's task was to hire a fire chief, Maletta said. "We interviewed several people to become chief," he said. The commission and the town board settled on offering the job to Joe Erdelac. Erdelac had served as a firefighter for the City of Gary for 37 years. He had just retired as that city's Chief of the Bureau of Fire Prevention. "He was hardcore, but he looked out for everybody," Fekete recalled Erdelac, who served 10 years as fire chief. The first two paid firefighters hired when the department started were Simon Walters and Ed Compass. Initially, Fekete recalled, the department started with Erdelac, Walters and Compass. It relied on paid, on-call volunteers when an incident happened. By the end of 1966, Robert Trowbridge and Otis Ford were hired. On Jan. 1, 1967, Charles Heckman and Wesley Osborn were hired. Fekete said he and David Aydelotte joined the department on July 1, 1967. Others followed and by the end of that year, the department ran two shifts of full-time personnel, working 24 hours on and 24 hours off. Every fifth day, someone would get another day off, recalled Fekete. "I saw they were starting up the fire department. I was working at Inland at the time. They (the department) had good benefits, but the pay was terrible," said Fekete, recalling he believes the early firefighters made between $400 and $450 per month. Everyone had a second job, said Fekete, adding he and Aydelotte, who became chief in 1976 after Erdelac's retirement, shared driving a school bus as their second jobs. The first fire station was located in a cinder block building on Central Avenue at Swanson Road. It was first used by the volunteer department until the full-time career department was put in place. It remained the city's fire station until 1968. By then, city hall was completed and the station moved from Central Avenue and Swanson Road into city hall. "Everyone was tickled to death to get out of the garage," Fekete said about the move. That remained the city's lone station until 1976 when Fire Station 2 on Old Porter and Crisman roads opened. Coincidentally, the old building on Central Avenue and Swanson Road, which was used as the Portage Jaycees Club House for a time and is now owned by a local cemetery, is targeted for purchase and demolition by the city in 2016. Fekete, who remained on the department for 20 years before retiring in 1987 and moving to Georgia, said the department began running its own ambulance service in the early 1970s. "All the firemen had to go through EMT training. They started with EMTs, then soon after they sent guys to paramedics school," he recalled, adding with the new service came a need for additional firefighters. Fekete worked out of the new Station 2 when it opened until his retirement. Since his retirement, the department has continued to grow. The fire station on Swanson Road, which also serves as the department's headquarters, opened in 2001. A new fire station is presently under construction on Central Avenue which will replace the station inside city hall. It is scheduled to open sometime this summer. About 125 students from Valparaiso elementary schools will join students from around the state to compete in the 20th annual Math Academic Teams for Hoosiers competition (M.A.T.H. Bowl). The competition, which includes 537 teams, was scheduled to take place at 52 sites around the state on Feb. 25. However, the recent winter storm came through and left that plan in a snow drift. As it was with many regional sites, the Valparaiso elementary schools regional competition was postponed and will take place at 6 p.m. Monday in the Valparaiso High School gymnasium. The M.A.T.H. Bowl competition promotes a team concept with no individual winners. Each of the four rounds consists of three team members working on a series of eight problems of varying difficulty. Friends and family of the competitors wait silently while each problem is solved. When the solutions are shown and scores are updated on a chart that maintains a running team score they erupt into applause and supportive cheers. The competitive atmosphere swells as the event progresses. The team members of the schools with highest scores in each of the five enrollment classifications at each site are recognized with awards at the conclusion of the competition. The Valparaiso regional site has been one of the more competitive sites and has produced many top 10 teams. Included at the site are seven of the elementary schools within the Valparaiso Community Schools as part of the Red class, a classification designed for schools with smaller enrollments. Flint Lake Elementary School also competes at the Valpo site in the Orange class due to its larger enrollment. In addition to local awards, the top ten teams in each enrollment classification statewide receive either a plaque or certificate to place in their school. While what is publicly seen takes place on competition night, much of the value of the M.A.T.H. Bowl competition and similar academic competitions is what takes place behind the scenes as the teams prepare for the big event. In the weeks leading up to competition night, students learn core skills and mathematical processes. However, they also embrace many so-called soft skills such as the value of hard work, contributing to the efforts of the group, and the benefit of cooperation. These are traits that transfer to all areas of team members lives and contribute to a productive future. M.A.T.H. Bowl competition results will be posted by noon on Tuesday at www.iasp.org. However, the results of the life lessons students embrace will be seen in the next generation of productive citizens in our community. Another pedestrian was killed by a car Monday morning in Midtown the fifth pedestrian fatality on city streets since early Sunday morning. Police say hit-and-run drivers were responsible for three of the deaths. NY1's Michael Herzenberg has the story. A black livery cab turned onto Madison Avenue from 36th Street during the morning rush and hit a 77-year-old woman behind the phone booths. She was pinned underneath the car and passersby rushed to help. "She was already under the car and we lift the car up I think that was the best way to save her," said one man who tried to help. It was about 8:30 Monday morning, and about ten people tipped the sedan on its side. Carol Dauplaise, the victim, owned a jewelry store nearby. NY1 spoke with one of her employees. "She had a lot of heart," said Zoe Cruz, who worked for Dauplaise. "She always helped. Especially me, she always helped me, so it's like a lost a mother." Dauplaise is one of five people killed by vehicles in a 29-hour period that began early Sunday. Sunday night a Ford Escape tried to pass two double-parked cars near McGraw Avenue and Unionport Road, fatally striking a 33-year-old pedestrian. The driver stayed on the scene. But hit and run drivers were blamed for three of the five deaths, including 63-year-old Jose Contreras killed in the Parkchester section of the Bronx. "My uncle was like my father, you know?" said Miguel Mejia, Contreras' nephew. "He called me every day in the morning, I am mechanic, he needs something in your truck, he called me everyday." Mayor Bill de Blasio has vowed to eliminate traffic deaths under his Vision Zero program and the number of deadly traffic crashes involving pedestrians fell last year for the second year in a row. But the pedestrian advocacy group Transportation Alternatives calls the number of deadly hit and run-crashes "an epidemic." "I think the weekend really emphasizes the need for the city and the state to work together to come up with an action plan to combat hit and run crashes," said Deputy Director Transportation Alternatives Caroline Samponaro. Despite the uptick this weekend, the city appears in the same range of pedestrian fatalities as last year which reached a record low. The DOT says, as of Sunday, there were 21 pedestrian fatalities this year. For the same timeframe in 2015, there were 20. The Oscars may have been awarded in Hollywood, but complaints about the lack of diversity were heard Sunday on the streets of Manhattan. Demonstrators gathered outside ABC's offices on the Upper West Side to protest the Academy's failure to recognize black actors. Protesters say they want the Academy Awards to be more inclusive. "We want the Oscars to commit to structural changes that will not allow this to ever happen again. This is the second year in a row," said one protester. "All of us support movies. Everybody goes and watches. There's all incredible actors that act well, and we just feel like if we're all supporting something we should be represented. It's 2016. It should reflect the times," noted another protester. Similar demonstrations were held outside of the Dolby Theatre in Los Angeles, where the Oscars show took place. The time is 1959 and the place is the Welton Academy in Vermont. Welton is one of those expensive, tradition-bound boys' preparatory schools somewhat more beloved in, and more significant to, English literature than American. This being 1959, Welton has not yet been pressured into accepting young women or blacks. Its world is insular, that of the privileged white male who, if he is not already a scion of Old Money, will probably marry it. Into this rarefied atmosphere comes John Keating (Robin Williams), himself a Welton alumnus, who returns to teach English and to shake up the old school with his enthusiasm for poetry and his unconventional teaching methods. One of the major problems with ''Dead Poets Society,'' Peter Weir's dim, sad new movie, is that although John Keating is the most vivid, most complex character in it, he is not around long enough. He is really no more than the catalyst who brings about events over which he has no control. ''Dead Poets Society,'' which opens today at Cinema 1 and other theaters, is far less about Keating than about a handful of impressionable boys who become bewitched by Keating's exuberant assaults on the order of academe. But the seminal study in this area, from 2005, was indeed lighthearted. It counted up how often comments from given justices were followed by the notation (laughter) in the official transcript, and it calculated that Justice Antonin Scalia was by that measure the funniest member of the court, followed by Justice Stephen G. Breyer. Justice Clarence Thomas beat out Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg for the title of least funny justice, but only by a little and aided by the fact that he never asks questions. The older studys author, Jay D. Wexler, a law professor at Boston University, was frank about its methodological shortcomings. The (laughter) notation, he wrote, does not distinguish between the genuine laughter brought about by truly funny or clever humor and the anxious kind of laughter that arises when one feels nervous or uncomfortable or just plain scared for the nations future. Mr. Malphurs said his goal was to remedy these flaws, noting that the Wexler study lacked the methodological rigor and insight normally attributable to social scientific studies. Times Insider delivers behind-the-scenes insights into how daily news, features and opinion pieces come together at The New York Times. Below, reporter David W. Dunlap discusses The Timess publication of a guidebook, in 1956, for decorating ones home with books. Books are awfully decorative, dont you think? The speaker was Gloria Upson, addlepated fiancee of Patrick Dennis in Auntie Mame. But it almost could have been Betty Pepis, the home editor of The New York Times and the author of an illustrated $1 guide, Books In Your Home, published by The Times in 1956. Books, of necessity, have become an inevitable part of the contemporary all-purpose living room, she wrote in the introduction. Low gas prices, easy credit and hefty discounts continue to drive sales of pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles, which should boost the performance of the three major domestic auto manufacturers General Motors, Ford Motor and Fiat Chrysler. Bill Vlasic Barclays will post 2015 results and is expected to update investors on its plan to scale back operations in several regions. The British bank Barclays will report its full-year results on Tuesday. James E. Staley, who joined the bank as its chief executive in December, is expected to give investors an update on his plans to turn around the lender. Since joining the bank, Mr. Staley has brought in several executives from his former employer, JPMorgan Chase, as he has sought to put his stamp on Barclays. The bank is expected to scale back its operations in Asia, end its physical presence in several countries and eliminate as many as 1,200 jobs across its global investment banking operations. Chad Bray Glencores earnings are expected to be much lower than a year ago. The Swiss-based mining company Glencore will provide the latest glimpse of the carnage in the industry when it reports earnings on Tuesday. Mining companies have seen their earnings plummet as the prices of iron ore, coal and copper have dropped amid slowing economic growth, especially from China. The gyrations of Glencores stock price have been remarkable. The companys shares are down more than 50 percent over the last year, but they are up about 40 percent this year as the company has moved to pare down debt. Glencores earnings are expected to be sharply lower from a year ago but may be buffered by profits in the companys large trading operations, which can still make money in a low-price environment. Stanley Reed The Treasurys schedule of financing this week includes Mondays regular weekly auction of new three- and six-month bills and an auction of four-week bills on Tuesday. At the close of the New York cash market on Friday, the rate on the outstanding three-month bill was 0.32 percent. The rate on the six-month issue was 0.46 percent, and the rate on the four-week issue was 0.25 percent. The following tax-exempt fixed-income issues are scheduled for pricing this week: MONDAY Florida Department of Transportation, $301.2 million of refinancing and revenue bonds. Competitive. TUESDAY Delaware, $242.1 million of general obligation bonds. Competitive. WEDNESDAY Jacksonville, Fla., $68.3 million of sales tax revenue bonds. Competitive. Orange County Sanitation Department, Calif., $145.1 million of revenue bonds. Competitive. FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. Bonnie Clearwater cast a covetous eye on a pair of wool coats. Id love to own one, she said. Wear it and you wont end up looking like a box. Capacious, cut to flatter and surprisingly contemporary, those coats were among the highlights of Bellissima: Italy and High Fashion 1945-1968, an exhibition at the Nova Southeastern University Art Museum here, where Ms. Clearwater is director. The show, created in partnership with Bulgari, is about giving credit to the many Italian designers who provided the foundation for Versace and Armani, said Stefano Tonchi, the editor of W and a curator of the installation. It showcases designers like Simonetta, Roberto Capucci and Mila Schon, who provided the sumptuous underpinnings for the cavalcade of damask and brocade, leather and lace on the Milanese runways this week. Youll have to walk two blocks, Mr. Webb said on Sunday, kissing another peroxide blond, Elin Hunter, a musician, on the cheek. Two more blocks for this kiss, and a good pair of skinny jeans and heels, he added. Customers spanning four decades came to pay their respects, among them the rock photographer Bob Gruen and Chris Stein, of Blondie, whose daughter Akira was trying on a pair of Pop Art Dr. Martens. It used to be the only place you could get certain things tight jeans, black jeans, Mr. Stein said. Motorcycle jackets. They were not part of the couture of the world. You had to find old ones. Legions of customers lined up to take home something in the stores pink-and-black bags. It was the place you had to go in New York City if you were a punk rocker, said Kimra Luna, originally of Riverside, Calif., who used to tour with punk rock bands. We always stayed on St. Marks, she said. We picked up all our gear there. Wed go without food to shop at Trash. Ms. Luna has a ring through her septum and neon-blue hair, but, now 31, she mainly came for punk rock onesies for her baby. For most of the last two decades, financing affordable housing in New York City has been a predictable process, instrumental in adding tens of thousands of apartments for lower-income households in a city where rents continue to soar out of reach for more people every year. But a cloud of uncertainty now hangs over those efforts, as many developers predict that projects could be choked off by the unremitting tensions between Mayor Bill de Blasio and Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo, who in January outlined a vastly expanded state role in affordable housing, one of the mayors signature issues. In the latest round of city-state jousting, developers, bankers and de Blasio administration officials said they were told in meetings with aides to Mr. Cuomo that the city would lose a sizable share of up to $900 million a year that the state provides in federal tax-exempt bonds for affordable housing projects in the five boroughs. Developers and bankers, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of repercussions from Albany, said they were told that the Cuomo administration planned to use the bonds for the governors own recently announced $10 billion statewide housing plan. HOOSICK FALLS, N.Y. One resident called 911 asking whether the villages water would burn his skin off. Families have lined up to have their blood drawn and their wells tested. Banks stopped giving out mortgages, and some local residents stopped washing their dishes, their clothes and themselves. Erin Brockovich has been to town. Such are the unpleasant contours of a public health emergency that is playing out in Hoosick Falls, a quiet river-bend village near the New York-Vermont border that has been upended by disclosures that the public water supply was tainted with high levels of perfluorooctanoic acid, or PFOA, a toxic chemical linked in some studies to an increased risk for cancer, thyroid disease and serious complications during pregnancy. Last week, a federal class-action lawsuit was filed against Saint-Gobain Performance Plastics and Honeywell International, the current and former owners of the plant that, according to the state, was the source of the PFOA contamination. The toxic chemical is associated with the making of Teflon, which was used in products manufactured at the plant. After the revelation of lead contamination in Flint, Mich., where Gov. Rick Snyders response was widely criticized, the situation in Hoosick Falls has provoked both deep concern about water quality and a heightened scrutiny of how public officials have responded. But the Union of Concerned Scientists, an advocacy group, has asked Stephen G. Burns, the regulatory commissions chairman, to evaluate the methodology used by its own staff. It is not sufficient to have the right answers until all the right questions have been asked, David A. Lochbaum, director of the groups Nuclear Safety Project, wrote in a letter in August. Mr. Burns declined the organizations request. Officials from both Spectra Energy and Entergy, which will receive a one-time payment for use of the right of way on its land, say that the new pipeline will be located several hundred feet farther away from the nuclear reactors than the smaller, existing pipeline. Jerry Nappi, a spokesman for Entergy, said the new pipeline would cross the southeast corner of its property, about 1,200 feet from the Unit 3 reactor. In addition, he said, the larger pipeline would be buried deeper than the existing one and would be covered by thick concrete slabs. Environmental activists from New York City and Westchester County are not mollified by those precautions. Since Spectra was given the go-ahead to proceed with construction, they have gathered 30,000 signatures on a petition demanding that Mr. Cuomo stop the project and study the risks. Mr. Cuomo has been vociferous in his demand that federal regulators not relicense Indian Point. (The reactors licenses expired in 2013 and 2015, and the Nuclear Regulatory Commission is now considering their renewal.) But until now, Mr. Cuomo has been largely silent about the pipeline. Spectra, based in Texas, is expanding sections of its so-called Algonquin Pipeline in several states to increase delivery of natural gas to meet what the company says is growing demand in New England. Besides safety concerns, critics of the pipeline also say that enhancing the delivery of fossil fuels like natural gas will hurt efforts to counter climate change. Teargas fired at migrants attempting to break through border into Macedonia, as thousands remain stranded for days on Greek side. SHOWS: IDOMENI, GREECE (FEBRUARY 29, 2016) (REUTERS - ACCESS ALL) 1. MIGRANTS ON RAILWAY TRACKS CLOSE TO BORDER WITH MACEDONIA 2. VARIOUS OF MIGRANTS WALKING OVER RAILWAY TRACKS 3. MIGRANTS CARRYING TORN DOWN SIGNPOST TO BORDER FENCE 4. MIGRANTS CHANTING (English): OPEN THE BORDER! 5. MACEDONIAN RIOT POLICE BEHIND FENCE 6. MIGRANTS WALKING TOWARDS BORDER FENCE 7. RIOT POLICE BEHIND FENCE WATCHING MIGRANTS 8. VARIOUS MIGRANTS PUSHING THROUGH FENCE WITH TORN DOWN SIGNPOST AS RIOT POLICE WATCH FROM OTHER SIDE 9. VARIOUS OF CROWD OF MIGRANTS DISMANTLING FENCE 10. MIGRANTS BREAKING DOWN FENCE 11. RIOT POLICE OFFICER APPROACHING FENCE AND FIRING TEAR GAS INTO CROWD/PAN OVER CROWD PULLING BACK 12. WIDE OF CROWD PULLING BACK AS POLICE FIRE MORE TEAR GAS 13. MIGRANTS IN CROWD INCLUDING WOMEN AND CHILDREN RUNNING AWAY 14. MIGRANTS PASSING UNDER FENCE INTO CAMP 15. TEAR GAS GRENADE SMOKING IN FIELD 16. WOMAN WITH CHILDREN PASSING BY CAMERA 17. INJURED MIGRANTS SITTING ON GROUND 18. MAN PULLING LITTLE GIRL CRYING FROM UNDERNEATH FENCE 19. MIGRANTS DRINKING AND REACTING TO SOUND OF SHOTS 20. VARIOUS MIGRANTS IN OPEN FIELD He promised to put an end to the Bush economic disaster and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq and to pass universal health care, completing a Democratic dream dating back at least to F.D.R. The most populist idea Mr. Obama offered was his vow to repeal the Bush-era tax cuts for the rich, while keeping them in place for the middle class. After Mrs. Clinton won the New Hampshire primary in 2008, Mr. Obama responded with an intonation crafted in defeat, which was designed to stir not revolutionary fervor, but patriotic hope; proclaiming that it was written into the founding documents of a flawed but earnest nation yearning to perfect its union: Yes, we can. Mr. Obama was arguing for his own electability as a black man in a country that had never elected anything but a white man as president. Candidate Obama didnt favor overturning the countrys private health care system or even instituting the individual mandate to purchase health insurance that Senator Clinton insisted was necessary to extend coverage, though he later adopted it as president. And Mr. Obama vehemently fought the notion that he was a socialist, or even out of the ideological mainstream. He ran as a centrist and a national healer, clearly not knowing that he would face an opposition once in office that was equal parts trenchant and ideologically radical. Once elected, Mr. Obama faced immediate and continual fire from vocal contingents on the right, but also from influential left-wing bloggers and liberal and libertarian radio hosts whom the White House press secretary Robert Gibbs derided in 2010 as the professional left. Some of these figures have dined out on the theme that Mr. Obama promised them a revolution and sold out instead to the establishment and the big banks. The liberal TV and radio veteran and longtime columnist Bill Press has even written a book on the theme, Buyers Remorse: How Obama Let Progressives Down, for which Mr. Sanders provided a blurb. But many African-Americans chafed at the fact that these mostly white liberals had hardly given the new, and first black, president with all the unique historic challenges the latter fact entailed time to tackle the sinking economy and get health care through before demanding that he issue executive orders defying the dont ask, dont tell law and somehow unilaterally close the Guantanamo Bay prison without the consent of Congress. Mr. Obama and his attorney general, Eric H. Holder Jr., were excoriated for failing to jail Wall Street bankers whose rapaciousness triggered the Great Recession. After the murderous attack on the offices of the satirical French magazine Charlie Hebdo in January 2015, Je suis Charlie became a rallying cry in France and across much of Europe in support of free speech and freedom of expression. It is a sad and depressing sequel to that display of solidarity that so many European nations seem willing today to curtail those same freedoms in the name of fighting terrorism. As Raphael Minder of The Times reported from Madrid last week, a lengthening string of prosecutions across Europe offer alarming evidence that laws hurriedly enacted in the wake of terrorist attacks are being misused to stifle legitimate protest. He cited the example of two puppeteers arrested in Madrid for a show that included a play on the names of Al Qaeda and ETA, the Basque separatist organization, as well as the conviction of the comedian Dieudonne Mbala Mbala in France for a Facebook post suggesting sympathy with one of the Charlie Hebdo gunmen. Days before Hillary Clinton thundered to an overwhelming victory over rival Bernie Sanders in South Carolina largely on the strength of black voters who supported her by an even higher percentage than they supported Barack Obama with in 2008 a young, proudly queer, black activist, Ashley Williams, was in Charlotte, N.C., plotting an action that would make a statement of its own. She was planning to attend a private Clinton fund-raiser in Charleston, S.C., and confront the candidate about her support of policies specifically the 1994 crime bill that contributed to the explosion of racially tilted mass incarceration in this country. Williams and her friends decided to make a sign but what to put on it? They toyed with phrases from a now infamous speech Clinton gave in 1996 when the 23-year-old Williams was a toddler in which Clinton said: We need to take these people on. They are often connected to big drug cartels. They are not just gangs of kids anymore. They are often the kinds of kids that are called super predators: no conscience, no empathy. We can talk about why they ended up that way, but first we have to bring them to heel. They settled on a phrase and over a couple of hours they blocked out the letters on a pillowcase. Williams practiced in a bathroom mirror folding the banner into her bra and whipping it out. (She figured that shed have to hide it on her body so that it wouldnt be confiscated before she revealed it at the fund-raiser.) But it was too thick. So she cut away the back half that had no writing. Perfect. EVERY few years, a news event demonstrates how dysfunctional, arbitrary and counterproductive the countrys system of classifying information really is. Sometimes its an article or book about government conduct that causes hand-wringing among intelligence officials. Sometimes its a prosecution under the nearly 100-year-old Espionage Act for mishandling classified information, instead of for actual spying. Now we have calls for prosecuting Hillary Clinton because, when she was secretary of state, she had documents on her private email server that have since been declared top secret. Mrs. Clinton, along with others accused of mishandling classified information, argues that government information is overclassified and that it is poorly labeled, making it impossible to know what is actually top secret. They are right. This debate might prove useful if it forces the government to deal with a bigger issue: the need for a saner system for classified information. Too much information is classified, and those restrictions last too long. Right now, there are thousands of people in the government who can classify information. Think about the reality: A person can put a classified stamp on a document and ensure it is kept secret, or can leave it unclassified, subject to disclosure, and later be accused of having revealed something needing protection. No one risks any real penalty for using the stamp; the only punishment comes from not using it. The result is overclassification. One persons decision may not be consistent with that of another. Many times, Ive seen information in a document marked top secret that is easily available on the Internet. Similarly there are numerous examples where the exact same paragraph is marked secret in one document but left unclassified in another. Yet people have been prosecuted for disseminating such information, and at trial, the government blocks them from using the unclassified document as a defense. Interviewing Nikita and Tina Sutradhar feels less like a formal assignment and more like being welcomed into their family. The sisters, 25 and 27, trade off the retelling of childhood anecdotes, reminiscing about their local Mumbai bookshop in the 90s that sold American Teen Vogue and watching Miss World as middle schoolers, enraptured by the parade of outfits. They describe how they crafted a dress from newspapers in their teens. Our father came home and we showed it to him, Tina says, and he was like, Thats it. You have to go to design school. Image The designers Tina and Nikita Sutradhar. Credit... Courtesy Miuniku A decade or so later, the sisters now run the womens wear brand Miuniku, a combination of, naturally, their monikers growing up Tina was called Miu, and Nikita, Niku. In 2010, Tina had completed a bachelors in business studies in Mumbai and a course in fashion marketing, while Nikita finished high school and a two-year diploma in fashion design. Soon, they left together for the London College of Fashion. They developed their design sensibility by being pushed to work on something personal, Tina says. For us, the biggest shift in moving to London was that we had to do everything ourselves in India, we had help at home with our day-to-day lives and our mother used to take care of the household chores. While doing the dishes one day, the sisters decided to base a line of garments on household chores. They translated the primary colors found on cleaning products onto loose, and sometimes surreal, forms. (Their arm dress, for example, has two extraneous sleeves tied apronlike at the waist). The Sutradhars had honed their technical skills in Mumbai but in London, they were able to get lost while researching endless ideas. Theres so much appreciation for art and design, Tina says, and so much self expression. Post-graduation, the sisters returned to Mumbai to look for employment and entered to win the H&M Design Award and the inaugural LVMH Prize in the meantime. They made it only to the semifinals for the former, but continued advancing in the latter. I thought that we didnt have a chance, Tina says. The application had questions about the business about the number of employees and stockists and we kept writing zero, zero. Miuniku ended up earning the 2014 Special Jury Prize along with Hood by Air, a special designation created specifically for both brands, which included 100,000 euros and a yearlong mentorship with Sophie Brocart, the LVMH Fashion Groups senior vice president of fashion ventures. They spoke biweekly over Skype and Brocart guided them through joining a sales showroom and staging a small presentation in Paris. The prize money paid for Miunikus spring/summer 2015 collection and much of the sisters fall/winter 2015 and spring/summer 2016 collections. It really helped us because we could jump-start the business without a loan, Nikita says, not to mention the industry connections they made. The risk of developing deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism a potentially life-threatening condition when a clot or part of a clot travels to the lungs as a result of flying long distances appears to be real, though small. An average of one passenger in 6,000 will suffer from deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism after a long-haul flight, according to a study by the World Health Organization. The American College of Chest Physicians said in its most recent guidelines on the topic that developing deep vein thrombosis or a pulmonary embolism as a result of long-distance travel is unlikely for most travelers but that certain factors may increase the risk. They include having already had the conditions, having cancer, recent surgery or trauma, immobility, advanced age, using estrogen, being pregnant, being obese, and sitting in a window seat (because it can limit mobility). That said, when the American College of Chest Physicians issues guidelines it also grades them based on the quality of the evidence used to generate its recommendations. The groups guidelines on this particular topic are graded 2C, which acknowledges that the evidence is of low quality. Its worth noting that deep vein thrombosis is not confined to air travel. Anyone traveling more than four hours, whether by air, car, bus, or train, can be at risk for blood clots, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. To help prevent clots, the C.D.C. suggests moving your legs frequently and exercising your calf muscles. More information is available at Cdc.gov/ncbddd/dvt/travel.html (from there you can learn more about evidence and risk factors by clicking the Yellow Book chapter on DVT and travel link). The other major safety concern Mr. Cohen raised is the ability of passengers to exit a plane in the event of an emergency. The F.A.A. requires that planes be capable of rapid evacuation in case of emergency, he said in a statement when the bill was voted down, yet they havent conducted emergency evacuation tests on all of todays smaller seats. Thats unacceptable. At issue, Mr. Cohen said, is that the Federal Aviation Administration hasnt conducted emergency evacuation tests on airlines with a distance between rows of less than 29 inches. And the House sets no safety standards for seat width or pitch. The consumer rights group FlyersRights.org said in late February that it has been years since airlines have been required to conduct these tests, and back then, they used young, fit employees to conduct the tests. Any aircraft that has subsequently reduced seat width or pitch, or has added seats per row, should be required to recertify to the 90-second evacuation standard for that configuration, using volunteers from the general population, conforming to demographic standards, without prior training in aircraft evacuation, and with those tests supervised by the F.A.A. Since the introduction of Mr. Cohens bill, it has garnered a few more supporters, including Representative Charles B. Rangel of New York and Representative Eleanor Holmes Norton of the District of Columbia. WOODBRIDGE, Va. On her first day on the job, Officer Ashley Guindon responded to a call that could have become routine had she gone on to a long career in law enforcement: a domestic disturbance in a well-kept suburban neighborhood. But something had already gone terribly wrong inside the Northern Virginia home of Ronald Hamilton, an Army sergeant, the police said Sunday, and Officer Guindons brief time with the Prince William County Police Department came to a horrific end. Sergeant Hamilton fired on Officer Guindon and two of her fellow officers, killing her and leaving the others seriously wounded, Police Chief Stephan Hudson said. Standing next to the countys top elected official and chief prosecutor, Chief Hudson was stone-faced at a news conference on Sunday as he lauded Officer Guindons bravery, intelligence and compassion. The chief offered no details about what might have provoked the gunman, who worked at the Pentagon and, according to neighbors, was about to be transferred to Italy. The fight Saturday afternoon between Sergeant Hamilton, 32, and his wife, Crystal Hamilton, 29, had been going on throughout the day, but it escalated after she called 911, Chief Hudson said. Between her call to the police and the arrival of the officers, Ms. Hamilton was fatally shot by her husband, the chief said, and the three officers were shot just after they arrived at the front door of the couples home. In a recent legal brief, the Justice Department said the court decision threatens to permanently impair an important presidential power, to make temporary appointments to vacant positions throughout the government. A Justice Department official said Friday that the administration would seek Supreme Court review of the decision. Morton Rosenberg, who worked at the Congressional Research Service for 35 years and closely followed debate on the 1998 law, said the court decision was very correct consistent with the statutory language and the intent of Congress. The debate has directly affected the status of one senior official. Eric K. Fanning was nominated to be secretary of the Army in September, and he became acting secretary in November. But members of the Senate Armed Services Committee expressed concerns about his role as acting secretary, in view of the Vacancies Reform Act. The Defense Department responded to the senators worries. As a show of comity to address these concerns, said Peter Cook, the Pentagon press secretary, Fanning has agreed to step out of his acting role to focus on achieving confirmation. The complexity of the situation is illustrated by the multiple roles of Beth F. Cobert, a former executive at McKinsey & Company. Mr. Obama has nominated her to be director of the federal Office of Personnel Management. She is already running the agency as acting director. And an administration official said she was still also technically a deputy director of the White House Office of Management and Budget, a title she has held since October 2013. Frank Benenati, a White House spokesman, said Ms. Cobert was acting within the confines of the law, was eminently qualified for her new job and should be promptly confirmed by the Senate. Ms. Cobert said she and the White House had great confidence in her legal status as acting director of the personnel agency while her nomination was pending. This arrangement, she said, is consistent with decades of bipartisan precedent and longstanding legal guidance from the Department of Justice. WELLESLEY, Mass. Here among the historic brick towers and wooded hills of Hillary Clintons alma mater, Wellesley Students for Hillary has a robust campus organization. But so has Wellesley Students for Bernie. On Thursday night, the pro-Sanders group brought the actress Susan Sarandon to campus and drew nearly 200 people, though many were from outside the college. I salute all the women here who are all going to be in hell with me, Ms. Sarandon said with a smile as she resurrected the admitted blunder proffered this month by former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright (a Wellesley College graduate and Clinton ally) that there is a special place in hell for women who do not support other women. Ms. Sarandons audience whooped and applauded. The fervor for Mr. Sanders, a senator from Vermont, among millennials is well known; in the New Hampshire primary, he captured 83 percent of voters between 18 and 29, according to exit polls. Supporters, though, have encouraged him to press on. Weve got 50 states, and only four of them have actually voted, said Mal McLetchie, a retired certified public accountant who went to see Mr. Kasich in the New Orleans area last week. Those of us in Louisiana and all the other states would like to have our say without a bunch of politicos dictating to us who they think we ought to support. Mr. Kasich campaigned Sunday here in Massachusetts, which is among the states that will vote on Tuesday. But he is not likely to do well in most of those contests, which could increase the pressure on him to leave the race. On Wednesday, Mr. Kasich plans to turn his focus to Michigan, which will vote March 8. He believes that if he prevails in Ohio, his home state, on March 15, it will give him renewed license to make his case in other big, middle-of-the-road states that vote later. If Mr. Rubio loses Florida that same day, Mr. Kasich believes he will be left in a one-on-one matchup with Mr. Trump. Some of the other candidates, if they cant win their home state, they got to get out, O.K.? Mr. Kasich told voters in Nashville on Saturday. If I dont win my home state, Ill get out. But you know what? Im going to win Ohio. But at other moments, Mr. Kasich has sounded less sure about his fate. Visiting Georgia last week, after talking about finding ones purpose, he said he did not know if his was to be president. And later that day, he said that perhaps his goal was not winning the presidency, but rather raising the bar and giving people the sense that the world can be a better place. He is also often mused about as a vice-presidential candidate, with his reluctance to attack his rivals and Ohios status as a critical swing state standing as two attractive qualities for a candidate seeking a running mate. But he has repeatedly said he is not interested, and even warned he would be the worst vice president anybody could ever imagine. To an attendee in Gulfport who raised the idea of Mr. Kasich as vice president, he replied, You know, I dont know what you know about McKees Rocks, Pa., referring to his Pittsburgh-area hometown. Several Democrats who gladly spoke openly scoffed at the notion that anyone would turn down a chance, no matter how small, to join the Supreme Court. Walter E. Dellinger III, an acting solicitor general under President Bill Clinton, said the atmosphere around Supreme Court nominations had long been poisonous and was only likely to get worse. Ive never heard anybody say, Id like to be nominated for the Supreme Court at a slightly better time, Mr. Dellinger said. Thats especially true when there may not be a better time. Ever. How Times reporters cover politics. We rely on our journalists to be independent observers. So while Times staff members may vote, they are not allowed to endorse or campaign for candidates or political causes. This includes participating in marches or rallies in support of a movement or giving money to, or raising money for, any political candidate or election cause. Learn more about our process. Josh Earnest, the White House press secretary, made much the same argument last week when he said being nominated to the Supreme Court was never smooth. Certainly in the modern era, anybody thats been nominated to the Supreme Court has gone through a rigorous vetting process, Mr. Earnest said. Its not supposed to be an easy process. Past nominations have indeed been difficult. Justice Sonia Sotomayor expressed regret in 2009 for remarks that a wise Latina judge could decide a case better than a white man. Justice Alito, after being forced to explain a 1985 document in which he denounced racial quotas and said the Constitution did not protect the right to abortion, had to comfort his weeping wife after a particularly difficult confirmation hearing. Harriet E. Miers, who was White House counsel to President George W. Bush, had to fend off criticism from fellow Republicans that she was insufficiently conservative and that she did not know the law adequately. She never surmounted those obstacles, and Mr. Bush withdrew her nomination. In 1987, President Ronald Reagan was forced to withdraw the nomination of Judge Douglas H. Ginsburg after controversy erupted over his use of marijuana. Mr. Trump, who has been accused of stirring up racial strife, handed his critics more ammunition on Sunday when he refused the opportunity to distance himself from Mr. Duke and the Klan. Asked repeatedly to do so in an interview with CNN, he demurred. You wouldnt want me to condemn a group that I know nothing about, he said. I would have to look. Later he backtracked, posting on Twitter, I disavow. Mr. Rubios headfirst lunge into a bout with Mr. Trump is a striking turnaround that the Florida senator himself calls disappointing. But it also reflects a conclusion that his above-the-fray approach was ineffective against a front-runner who seems to gain popularity with each fight he picks. I had hoped that this would be a campaign only about ideas, Mr. Rubio told the crowd of more than 3,000 here, in the far suburbs of Washington, as he accused Mr. Trump of being a fraud, a threat to national security and possibly even a racist. I need your vote Tuesday, Mr. Rubio told his audience, which was about as rowdy and animated as any he had drawn. Friends do not let friends vote for con artists. Virginia is one of more than 10 delegate-rich states that will vote in the Super Tuesday contests this week others include Texas, Georgia, Alabama and Massachusetts most of which Mr. Trump is favored to win. CHICAGO Test scores suggest that the Barbara A. Sizemore Academy, an African-centered school, is struggling mightily. Its students in third through eighth grades scored in only the 14th percentile in reading on national achievement tests last year and in the eighth percentile in math. Those statistics have prompted the Chicago Public Schools to recommend closing Sizemore. But here in a South Side neighborhood riddled with crime, blight and poverty, where the black experience can seem like a constant struggle, Sizemores many supporters argue that their students success is measured by much more than test scores. The school has done exceedingly well, they say, instilling confidence in a psychologically battered population. When you talk about children who are suffering from all the ills of, you know, the residual effects of slavery, said Danielle Robinson, who is in her third year as Sizemores principal, absolutely this is where they need to be. Like dozens of African-centered schools across the country, Sizemore embodies much of what racial justice activists are screaming from rooftops. Suspension is a last resort. Teachers address students by courtesy titles and their last names. The accomplishments of blacks are front and center in lesson plans. Seven people were awaiting charges on Sunday in connection with a melee at a Ku Klux Klan rally in California the day before, during which anti-Klan protesters attacked two white supremacists, the police said. The violence began as soon as a small group of Klan supporters arrived at Pearson Park in Anaheim, Calif., on Saturday to hold what they described as a white lives matter rally, Sgt. Daron Wyatt, a spokesman for the Anaheim Police Department, said. Roughly 30 anti-Klan protesters who were waiting at the park attacked the six Klan supporters immediately after they got out of their S.U.V., the police and witnesses said. They said they believed many of the anti-Klan protesters came to the park intending to attack the Klansmen. The suspects awaiting charges were participants in the anti-Klan protest, ranging in age from a juvenile to a person age 38. Sergeant Wyatt said only one of those arrested was an Anaheim resident. The others tell me not to mention the executions, and remind me that I have a home and family, he said. My wife doesnt like it, either, but Ive lost all fear. Mr. Padilla, 62, was drafted into the army five months before the military overthrew the socialist President Salvador Allende in September 1973. He never imagined what lay ahead. According to an official report on prison and torture during the 17-year Pinochet dictatorship, after the coup, Mr. Padillas Puente Alto regiment held prisoners in train wagons, blindfolded, bound and deprived of food and water. Many detainees were subjected to torture and rape. For years, he has taken medication to sleep at night, and he longs for the forgiveness of the victims families. But he hesitates to approach them; he says he does not know how, aware that much of society regards the soldiers as criminals. A father of three adult children, Mr. Padilla and his wife of 40 years live in a modest, well-kept home in Cajon del Maipo, a mountainous area on the outskirts of Santiago, the capital. He is an operator of heavy machinery at Alto Maipo, a dam project. He describes himself as having been a tough, rebellious teenager from a working-class district in the capital who liked to box. His father died when he was a boy, and he was brought up by his grandmother in Santiago. When he was drafted in 1973, Mr. Padilla was working at a gypsum mine in El Volcan, in Cajon del Maipo, spending weekends with his grandmother and dating a young woman who worked at the company cafeteria. Months later, he witnessed her arrest during a raid on the company. She did not recognize him as she was forced out at gunpoint, arms above her head, along with other employees. He was speechless, wearing full military gear and operating a machine gun on a jeep, pointing at his girlfriend. She was detained only briefly. After Mr. Padilla was relieved of his military duties in 1975, they resumed the relationship and married. SEOUL, South Korea An American student detained in North Korea appeared in a government-arranged news conference in Pyongyang, the capital, on Monday, apologizing for what the country called an antistate crime: trying to steal a political banner. The student, Otto F. Warmbier, an undergraduate at the University of Virginia, was detained in North Korea in January while visiting the country on a tourist visa. While announcing his arrest, the state news media reported last month that Mr. Warmbier entered the country with the intent of bringing down the foundation of its single-minded unity. I made the worst mistake of my life, said Mr. Warmbier, sobbing and pleading for his release, according to Associated Press video of the news conference, which was held at the Peoples Palace of Culture in Pyongyang. Early on Jan. 1, I committed my crime of taking out the important political slogan from the staff-only area of the Yanggakdo International Hotel, Mr. Warmbier, 21, said at the news conference. The charges against him said he was encouraged to commit the hostile act by a member of an Ohio church, a secretive university organization and the C.I.A. ISLAMABAD, Pakistan The Pakistani authorities early on Monday hanged Malik Mumtaz Hussain Qadri, who was convicted of killing Salmaan Taseer, a governor of Punjab Province who had campaigned to change the countrys blasphemy law. Mr. Qadri, who was part of the governors police security detail, fatally shot Mr. Taseer in 2011 in an upscale market in Islamabad, the capital. Mr. Taseer, a secular politician, was an outspoken opponent of the blasphemy law, which he and other critics said had been used to persecute religious minorities in Muslim-majority Pakistan. Mr. Qadri was hanged at the high-security Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi at 4:30 a.m. on Monday, officials said. By Monday morning, there were small, scattered protests by the Sunni Tehreek, a religious-political party that supported Mr. Qadri, in some parts of Pakistans main city, Karachi, as well as on Shahrah-e-Faisal, the road connecting the city to the airport. Moiz Peerzada, the press director for the police in Sindh Province, which includes Karachi, said security would be beefed up in areas where larger protests were possible. Small demonstrations also took place on the main highway that connects Islamabad to Rawalpindi in Punjab, leading to an early morning traffic jam, officials said. BEIRUT, Lebanon The second day of a partial truce in Syria was marred on Sunday by a number of airstrikes and artillery attacks, the warring sides reported, demonstrating the challenges of even a limited deal. The Syrian government and opposition, and their respective supporters, accused each other of violating the truce, a tit for tat of allegations that is likely to continue, since there is no independent monitor or clearly established mechanism for deciding what constitutes a violation. Several airstrikes, by the Syrian government or its Russian allies, hit insurgent-held areas in the provinces of Aleppo, Hama and Idlib, according to insurgent groups and civilian activists who posted videos online. The Syrian opposition called the attacks violations of the truce, saying that they had targeted insurgent groups other than the Qaeda-linked Nusra Front and the Islamic State, two organizations that were excluded from the deal. Dozens of people were killed Sunday in two bombings at a crowded market in a Shiite neighborhood of Baghdad, the police said. The Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks. A parked motorcycle exploded at 3:30 p.m. at the Mredy market, in the Sadr City district of Baghdad, the Iraqi capital. Shortly afterward, a suicide bomber exploded a device as bystanders tended to the victims of the first attack. At least 42 people were killed and another 95 wounded in the two attacks, according to a police officer who requested anonymity. In a statement posted online, the Islamic State claimed responsibility for the attacks, saying they had been carried out by two suicide bombers. Our swords will not stop slaughtering the heads of apostates wherever they are, the statement said. Mohammed Al-Kaaby, 45, an explosives expert in the army who witnessed the attacks, described seeing lightning followed by a huge explosion and then peoples bodies and blood all over the place. Lands End went with the latter choice. It was never our intention to raise a divisive political or religious issue, so when some of our customers saw the recent promotion that way, we heard them. We sincerely apologize for any offense, the company said in a statement, which was also posted to its Facebook page. That statement inadvertently spurred new boycott threats from potential shoppers who saw the companys decision as an affront to womens rights. A debate soon erupted on the Lands End Facebook page. What a terrible message to send to all the women and girls who wear your clothes, Christina Burrows Refford wrote in a reply. Im sorry you see equal rights for women as a divisive issue. I see it as a human issue. While the original interview drew the ire of anti-abortion activists, it did not broach the topic of abortion. Ms. Steinem instead talked about the need for an Equal Rights Amendment that would formally acknowledge that men and women have equal rights. A spokeswoman for Lands End, Michele Casper, declined to comment Monday on the future of the interview series, and would not say how many schools had cut ties with the company. The explosion of the Deepwater Horizon drilling rig in the Gulf of Mexico in 2010 and the demise of venerable New York law firm Dewey & Leboeuf in 2012 could not be more different. One causing widespread pollution along with 11 deaths, while the other involved questionable accounting to keep the firm afloat as it struggled to deal with a changing marketplace. What links them is that the efforts by prosecutors to hold individuals responsible for wrongdoing in these organizations have almost completely failed, as events last week showed. The cases highlight just how hard it is to convict those involved in complex corporate decisions where there is diffuse responsibility. Despite a renewed emphasis from the Justice Department to focus on corporate officials for prosecution when there are violations, it remains open whether we will see many successful cases against individuals. A few months after the oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico caused extensive environmental damage, Eric H. Holder Jr., then the attorney general, visited the site of the disaster and promised: We will be meticulous, we will be comprehensive, and we will be aggressive. We will not rest until justice is done. Our future work depends on striking the right balance to strengthen the U.S. Environmental Protection Agencys abilities and funding, without limiting state powers in creating and enforcing needed protections, said a letter, obtained by The New York Times, sent by the top environmental regulators in California, Connecticut, Minnesota, New Hampshire, New York, Oregon, Washington and West Virginia. Some of the most vociferous objections relate to the so-called Monsanto Clause. The provision does not mention the company by name, but between the early 1930s and 1977, Monsanto manufactured almost all of the 1.25 billion pounds of PCBs sold in the United States. The chemicals were initially admired for their ability to prevent fires and explosions in electrical transformers and other equipment. But as the use of PCBs skyrocketed nationwide in products as varied as paints, pesticides and even carbonless copy paper, evidence mounted that they were contaminating the environment and potentially causing health problems including cancer and immune-system complications. The E.P.A. banned their production in 1979. PCB litigation has surged in the last year as cities and school systems struggle to comply with directives from federal and state regulators to reduce PCB levels in sewer discharge and in caulk once used to construct schools. Separately, a group of individuals who received diagnoses of a form of cancer known as non-Hodgkins lymphoma sued Monsanto last year, claiming the company should pay damages. The Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, in a June report accompanying its version of the legislation, asserted that neither existing toxic chemical law nor any revisions pending in Congress should be seen as a way to pre-empt, displace or supplant the right to sue for damages in lawsuits like the ones filed against Monsanto. The House also voted to preserve the right to sue if individuals or local governments believe they have been harmed by a chemical, regardless of future federal regulations of the substance. But a critical paragraph added to the House bill in late May made sure past regulatory requirements by the E.P.A. would continue to disqualify legal claims, and it specifically referred to the section of the 1976 toxic chemical law governing PCBs, giving Monsanto clearer authority in the future to ask judges to dismiss lawsuits filed against it. MILAN It was 9:30 p.m. on a chilly Sunday in an industrial area on the outskirts of Milan, and rain had been pounding down for 48 hours. The Missoni show had just ended, and Angela Missoni, the brands creative director, was welcoming around 120 guests for supper. We are a family business, and we have been built upon decades of family dinners, she said as the restaurant space in a converted warehouse near the Fondazione Prada swelled with guests, all kissing one another and erupting in loud, happy chatter. So I wouldnt have this celebration any other way. Mountains of melt-in-the-mouth antipasti lined a wall of each room, with slightly heavier dishes pasta bowls, roast lamb and artichoke souffle passed around by smiling young waiters. Gallons of prosecco and crisp white Italian wines sat in giant ice buckets kept discreetly in corners. WASHINGTON Half of one satisfying sexual encounter a month. That is the average benefit a woman gets when she takes the new female libido drug, sometimes called the female Viagra, researchers reported Monday. Last year the Food and Drug Administration approved the drug, flibanserin, making it the first drug available to treat low sexual desire in women. It was promoted by a group of womens rights activists who argued it was unfair that men had numerous drugs to boost sexual function while women had nothing. But public health groups and some other womens groups contended that the science did not justify its approval. The drugs effects were modest, they said, and not worth side effects such as sleepiness, dizziness, fatigue and nausea. And the risk of some side effects increased with alcohol consumption. In the new study, published in JAMA Internal Medicine, researchers found benefits that were slightly more modest than those submitted to the F.D.A. during the approval process. The researchers analyzed eight studies of about 5,900 women, using a method that involved pooling the data. They concluded that treatment with flibanserin, now marketed as Addyi, resulted in one-half of an additional sexually satisfying encounter per month. (The study did not define what one-half of a sexually satisfying encounter was.) An infertility clinic has offered Corporal Wilson and Ms. Black a discount, and friends have started a GoFundMe website to help pay for the treatment. But Ms. Black said: Its very taxing when you have to come up with such a large amount to even try to have a family. The fertility issues arise 100 percent from his combat-related injury. Senator Patty Murray, Democrat of Washington, has been trying for several years to change the law. This is a widely used medical procedure, and our veterans should have access to it, she said. This is an issue between the veteran and the spouse and their doctor. The V.A. supported legislation by Ms. Murray to change the law, provided that money was allocated pay for the services, according to testimony last June before the Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs by Dr. Rajiv Jain, a V.A. assistant deputy under secretary. It looked as if the bill was heading to a vote, but Ms. Murray withdrew it in July because a group of Republicans, led by Senator Thom Tillis, Republican of North Carolina, had added amendments that would have, among other things, prohibited the V.A. from working with Planned Parenthood and other groups that provide fertility services and perform abortions. The amendments were a reaction to videos released by anti-abortion activists who accused Planned Parenthood of selling fetal body parts. Ms. Murray has vowed to keep trying. Im never going to give up until we get this done, she said. I believe it is so essential for these young men and women to know their country is behind them when they get home, and their dream is not taken away. But for many couples, the biological clock is ticking. Ms. Murray acknowledged that for some, who had asked for her help years ago, it is already too late. Army Staff Sgt. Michelle Wager was injured by a roadside bomb in Baghdad in 2007. She lost one leg and had severe damage to the other. She has sustained fractured vertebrae and a brain injury. Once I was at Walter Reed and sort of conscious, sort of understanding what was going on, I realized that I stopped having periods immediately, Sergeant Wager said. She was only 31, and her menstrual cycles had always been normal, she said. But the injuries seemed to plunge her into menopause, complete with hot flashes. Initially, military doctors reassured her that she would remain fertile. But the changes troubled her, and she sought treatment. Drugs prescribed in 2011 brought some irregular periods. A doctor told her that if she wanted children, she should try to get pregnant as soon as possible. But she had no partner. My options were to pick a donor out of a book, she said. I wasnt quite prepared for that. Later, she started a new relationship, and in October 2014 became pregnant. But she miscarried. Weve had baby fever ever since, she said. But she and her husband have not conceived again. In a letter written to help explain her condition to the V.A., her gynecologist said, In my professional opinion, her infertility could likely be explained by her traumatic injuries that she suffered while serving in Iraq. He went on to say that the brain injury had probably caused her to stop menstruating, and that he had referred her to an infertility clinic. Even though the V.A. does not provide in vitro fertilization, Sergeant Wager said she hoped it would recognize her infertility as a service-related injury and provide compensation, which she could use to pay for the treatment she needs. Im dumbfounded, she said. Were just sort of at the end of our rope here, not sure where to go or where to turn. She and her husband have been seeing an infertility specialist, paying out of pocket. The clinic donated one attempt at intrauterine insemination a few months ago, but it failed, and the doctor told the couple that their best bet, probably their only one, was I.V.F. They cannot afford it, and are considering borrowing the money from a finance company that lends to couples having I.V.F. She is now 40, and time is running out. Were not the richest people, and for something thats not guaranteed, its a little bit scary, Sergeant Wager said. But were not ready to give up yet, either. In November, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine, a professional group for fertility doctors, called the ban on V.A. coverage antiquated and unconscionable, and said that many of the countrys leading infertility clinics would offer deeply discounted care to veterans with service-related injuries that had diminished their fertility. Kathleen Causey, whose husband, Sgt. First Class Aaron Causey, had an injury to the testicles that impaired his fertility, called the discounts wonderful and gracious. But she said: We shouldnt have to rely on peoples kindness to have children. Where is the support of the V.A.? Why isnt Congress taking this seriously? She added, Were only in this situation because he chose to serve his country, and now his country is not taking care of him. The daughter of Abe Vigoda, the sad-face actor who died last month at 94 and was known for his roles in The Godfather and the television show Barney Miller, said on Monday it was wrong for her father to have been left out of the In Memoriam segment of the Academy Awards on Sunday night. Mr. Vigodas daughter, Carol Vigoda Fuchs, said she watched the ceremony from her home in New Jersey with friends, expecting to see his image during the segment. I have to say it was very disappointing, and I feel that we were all cheated and I dont understand why, she said in a telephone interview on Monday. I am assuming it was a mistake, she said. This is the final curtain, this is the big one, and wow why no tribute? She said she had not heard from the Academy and would not be formally seeking an explanation, saying that should be up to his fans and people in the industry. Amid generally positive reviews of his jabs at Hollywood and #OscarsSoWhite, the host of Sundays Oscar ceremony, Chris Rock, is being taken to task for some of his material involving Asian-Americans. Introducing the accountants from PricewaterhouseCoopers, which tabulates the vote results, Mr. Rock instead brought onstage two boys and a girl of Asian heritage, whom he named Ming Zu, Bao Ling and David Moskowitz. As they clutched briefcases, they visually illustrated the stereotype that Asians are diligent workers who excel at math. If anybodys upset about that joke, just tweet about it on your phone that was also made by these kids, Mr. Rock added, a punch line interpreted as a reference to child labor in Asia. But that seeming awareness of how fine the line was between satire and slur, only added insult to injury, Lowen Liu wrote on the Slate site. Even if the second beat tries to turn things around, it still allows the teller to make an Asian joke and then excuse himself from the telling. He pulls the rug out from under the audience only to hide underneath it. (Sacha Baron Cohen, in character as Ali G, later also made a swipe involving Minions and little yellow people that many found offensive.) Goldman, according to people briefed on the situation but not authorized to speak on the record, put Mr. Thorburn on paid administrative leave last week after he was interviewed by company officials about details that appeared in The Timess article. These people say that Mr. Thorburn sought to distance himself from the website. Ultimately, the bank became concerned about apparent inconsistencies in Mr. Thorburns story, and placed him on leave, they said. Mr. Thorburn did not respond to requests for comment. A person who answered his phone at Goldman said he was not expected at work on Monday. Andrew Williams, a spokesman for Goldman, declined to comment. Mr. Thorburn has been with Goldman in New York since March 2014, according to public records kept with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, which is Wall Streets self-regulatory body. He had previously worked at JBWere, a financial services firm in Australia that has ties to Goldman. Hope Hicks, a spokeswoman for Mr. Trump, a Republican, said, We are not involved in any way and do not wish to be. She added that the Trump campaign did not know Mr. Thorburn and was not familiar with Goldmans personnel policies. When a New York State labor investigator entered a Long Island nail salon last July, she spotted two women sneaking out the back. The owner insisted that they did not work there. But the truth emerged several days later, when one of the women called the investigator and said her boss had told her to flee so she could not be interviewed about her wages. When the investigator returned to the salon, American Beauty, in Port Washington, N.Y., she was surprised when the owner lied to her again about the woman. I said, Oh my God, I cant believe this, the investigator, Cecilia J. Maloney, recalled. Labor investigators have swept through nail salons across the state since May, when Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo ordered them to step up their scrutiny of the industry in response to a series of articles in The New York Times that revealed abysmal pay and working conditions among nail salon workers. From a regulatory perspective, the results of the inspections seem to tell a straightforward story of widespread abuses. Although the states plans to crack down on the industry were highly publicized, all but a dozen of the 230 salons whose investigations were closed by late last year were cited for violating at least one labor law. A team of plainclothes New York City police officers, tracking the signal of a stolen cellphone, pushed past a man who denied the officers permission to enter his home and searched it floor by floor. A sergeant forced the man to wait outside in his underwear in the rain. I can do anything I want, one officer told the man. In another case, officers armed with an arrest warrant, but not a search warrant, burst into a home of a suspects ex-boyfriend at 5:30 a.m., only to find an innocent woman inside with a child and grandchild. The wrong address had come from a months-old domestic incident report. In a review of hundreds of police cases, the Civilian Complaint Review Board found scores of incidents in which police officers misapplied or misunderstood the legal standards of one of the most invasive law enforcement tactics: entering a home. The review board, an independent oversight agency for the New York Police Department, concluded in its analysis that the frequency of such misconduct fuels the publics mistrust of law enforcement. PLATTSBURGH, N.Y. A guard who unwittingly helped two killers escape from a northern New York prison by smuggling in pliers, a screwdriver and a hacksaw blade hidden in hamburger meat was sentenced on Monday to six months in jail. The guard, Gene Palmer, is the third person to be sentenced in the escape of Richard W. Matt and David Sweat, who cut their way out of the maximum-security Clinton Correctional Facility in Dannemora last June. A three-week manhunt ended with Mr. Matt killed and Mr. Sweat captured. Mr. Palmer, 57, pleaded guilty to a felony count of promoting prison contraband for bringing in pliers and a screwdriver, a misdemeanor contraband count for the hamburger meat and a misdemeanor count of official misconduct. In addition to the jail time, a judge also fined him about $5,000. Mr. Palmer declined to comment in court. But his lawyer, William Dreyer, told the judge that Mr. Palmer was remorseful and had no idea that he was knowingly aiding the escape. LONDON Europe, the soil on which Fascism took root, is watching the rise of Donald Trump with dismay. Contempt for the excesses of America is a European reflex, but when the United States seems tempted by a latter-day Mussolini, smugness in London, Paris and Berlin gives way to alarm. Europe knows that democracies can collapse. Its not just that Trump retweets to his six million followers a quote attributed to Mussolini: It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep. Its not just that Trump refuses to condemn David Duke, the former grand wizard of the Ku Klux Klan, who has expressed support for him. Its not just that violence is woven into Trumps language as indelibly as the snarl woven into his features the talk of shooting somebody or punching a protester in the face, the insulting of the disabled, the macho mockery of women, the anti-Muslim and anti-Mexican tirades. Its not just that he could become Silvio Berlusconi with nukes. Its the echoes, now unmistakable, of times when the skies darkened. Europe knows how democracies collapse, after lost wars, in times of fear and anger and economic hardship, when the pouting demagogue appears with his pageantry and promises. Americas Weimar-lite democratic dysfunction is plain to see. A corrupted polity tends toward collapse. Trump is telling people something is rotten in the state of America. The message resonates because the rot is there. To the Editor: Re Slave Labor on the High Seas (editorial, Feb. 20), I wish to emphasize two points. First, compared with this time last year, Thailand has made significant progress to combat human trafficking, illegal labor practices and illegal fishing. Laws have been toughened up, and enforcement has been beefed up. We are addressing labor abuses, protecting and rehabilitating victims, and bringing criminals to justice. Thailand is working with the International Labor Organization and civil society groups to raise labor protection standards. No person under 18 is permitted to work in seafood processing factories or on fishing vessels. Shipowners are required by law to ensure minimum standards for the safety and well-being of seamen. Migrant workers in the seafood industry are now free to change employers, and more than 2,000 have done so. So far, over 100,000 undocumented workers in sea fishery and seafood processing works have registered with the authorities, enabling them to work in Thailand legally and with protections. Over 5,000 fishing vessels have installed a satellite-tracking system. Our private-sector companies have pledged to rid their supply chains of illegal fishing and labor practices, as well as human trafficking. Second, the legislation you cited in your editorial does not target any specific country or region, and should not. Attaining better labor standards is a global challenge, including here in the United States. Therefore American trading partners would hope that Washington will implement this legislation in a transparent, fair and nondiscriminatory manner. Thailand stands ready to work with the United States government and all stakeholders for better labor standards. Partnerships are the best way forward. To the Editor: The New York Times has been magnificent in advancing the United States-Cuban agenda. Thus I was deeply disappointed by your Feb. 19 editorial on Cuba policy, An American President in Cuba. Making President Obamas trip to Cuba in March primarily about politics, explicitly, as the Times editorial calls for, is absolutely the wrong approach. Cuba and the United States have much to talk about in the short time that the president will spend in Cuba, and surely human rights and democracy will be on the agenda. To Cubans, however, the message will be in the presidents mere presence there, and the respect he will undoubtedly show them. They will be truly grateful for the attention. They dont need to be preached to. Not even President Raul Castro. If the island is starting to change and the signs are there, even if weak it is because for the first time in over 50 years, Cubans are being given the chance to think and act for themselves. Few would call it democracy, but Cubans may be getting there. The response was immediate and signed by 141 scientists, many of them specialists in the field known as invasion biology. Their approach, they said, was already sufficiently nuanced, thank you very much. Most conservation biologists and ecologists do not oppose nonnative species per se, wrote Daniel Simberloff, a professor of environmental science at the University of Tennessee, who led the group that wrote the rebuttal. He added that Dr. Davis and his colleagues had vastly played down the severe harm that alien species caused. But in the five years since that contentious exchange, the idea that invasive species should be assumed guilty until proven innocent has begun to wane, the shift prompted in part, Dr. Davis speculated, by concerns over the use of chemical pesticides and the disruption of landscapes caused by many eradication efforts. Some alien species are undeniably harmful, a fact that neither Dr. Davis nor others who share his view dispute. The fungus that causes chestnut blight, for example, decimated thousands of trees and changed the American landscape in the early 1900s. The Zika virus is invading new regions, carried by infected mosquitoes that some say are being driven northward by warmer temperatures. The vampirelike lamprey, sneaking into the Great Lakes in the 19th century, gradually champed its way through the fish population. Islands and mountaintops are especially vulnerable to damage from invaders because their native species often evolved in isolation and lack natural defenses against predators or immunity to exotic diseases. The brown tree snake, accidentally transported to Guam, has virtually eliminated the bird population there. American and European officials released details on Monday about a new trans-Atlantic data transfer agreement, prompting a new round of debate about how companies like Google move digital information between the two regions. The pact is the formal version of an agreement hashed out in early February after often-bitter negotiations, revamping the rules for how technology giants like Facebook and other conglomerates like General Electric look up, collect and manage online data, including social media posts, search queries and e-commerce purchases. As part of the new agreement known as the E.U.-U.S. Privacy Shield companies will face stricter rules over how they move peoples digital data from the European Union to the United States. American officials have also agreed to new limits on the powers of the countrys intelligence agencies to gain access to Europeans online information when it is transferred to the United States. The U.S. has different structures to Europe, but both sides offer robust privacy protections, Penny Pritzker, the United States commerce secretary, said in an interview in February. The challenge was to show Europe how our system works, because we dont have a single overriding privacy law. It happened again: Less than a month after Royal Caribbeans Anthem of the Seas vessel returned earlier than scheduled to its port of origin in Cape Liberty, N.J., after facing 120 m.p.h. winds off Cape Hatteras, N.C., the ship ended another cruise early in anticipation of a severe storm expected in the same location. Anthem of the Seas departed Cape Liberty on Sunday, Feb. 21, for a 12-day trip to the Eastern Caribbean, and instead of returning as scheduled on March 4, the ship will return two days earlier on Wednesday, March 2. In an emailed statement, the company said that a weather system is gaining strength off the coast of Cape Hatteras. Based on the most recent weather forecast, if Anthem of the Seas continues on its regular scheduled itinerary, the ship would encounter the brunt of the large and powerful storm on the return to Cape Liberty, it said. The email directly referred to the incident earlier in February stating, On a recent sailing, Anthem of the Seas experienced bad weather that was much worse than forecast; therefore, we want to be extra cautious about our guests safety and comfort when it comes to weather in the area. Justin: Gosh, you want me to put a number out there? My intuition is always to start with the prediction markets thats 81 percent. But Ive argued for shading toward an uninformed prior thats 25 percent. It would be totally gutless to state a range running from 25 percent to 81 percent. And I do think hes more likely to win than not. So Im going to go with Trump being a two-in-three chance to win the nomination. Thats 67 percent. Nate: A two-thirds chance of a Trump nomination seems pretty reasonable to me, too. Theres a real chance Cruz drops out after Super Tuesday. Rubios going to air a lot of advertisements in Florida. The party and the media is finally beginning to attack Trump. All considered, Trump might finally have to build a majority coalition in the face of sustained attacks, and its hard to be too confident in his ability to do so. He certainly hasnt had to do it yet. Justin: Theres also uncertainty about whether Trump is actually going to pony up a substantial share of his own money. Nate, whats your guess for what share of his wealth The Donald has spent so far? And if he isnt going to risk a big chunk of it, does that change your assessment of his chances? Nate: It doesnt seem like hes spent much at all. Then again, he may not be nearly as wealthy as he says, either. That said, he receives so much free media coverage that Im not sure how much he needs to air television advertisements. Perhaps it might matter more once he starts to receive a heavy dose of attack ads, as I suspect he will in Florida. Justin: Youve convinced me that he hasnt needed money so far, and youre right, thats no guarantee that he wont in the future. And thats really the point I wanted to get to. For months, weve watched as Trump has said or done things that would destroy any other candidate. Mitt Romney, for instance, just had to utter the words 47 percent once behind closed doors to do serious damage. Yet Trumps support has stayed firm even as he has made statements that I would have thought would offend yuge numbers of people, including women, Hispanics, Muslims and the disabled. Can Marco Rubio win a state on Super Tuesday? Its not an especially high bar after all, there are 12 for him to choose from. But he hasnt won a state yet, and a win would quell the complaints that he hasnt. The good news for him is that he does have a few realistic options. To get a sense of where Mr. Rubio might fare well, we estimated how the states on Super Tuesday might vote if they voted like the four early states. The estimates are imperfect imagine, for instance, that Donald Trumps momentum allows him to do even better than he did in the first four contests. Over all, the estimates imply that Mr. Trump would carry the national popular vote with 37 percent, and that Rubio would be at 25 percent, Ted Cruz at 22, John Kasich at 9 and Ben Carson at 6. Recent national polls show Mr. Trump faring even better; if true, our estimates may understate his strength in the Super Tuesday states. Even so, the results suggest that Mr. Rubio might have a real chance to win in a few states, including the Super Tuesday states Minnesota and Virginia. Remember, these are estimates, not predictions. Colorado Mr. Rubios best state in our estimates and his second best in the country, after Utah is Colorado. The demographics fit: Its highly educated and has a relatively religious Republican vote. Weve eliminated a lot of the bureaucracy, he said. I would like to think that we did what we needed to do. And weve set the Detroit Public Schools on a course of long-term financial solvency and long-term sustainability. But the districts financial problems are crippling, officials said. The enrollment loss has resulted in a steep decline in revenue for the district, which depends partly on per-pupil funding from the state. That has made it more difficult to reduce debt, maintain buildings and pay for fixed costs. Entering bankruptcy is not a solution, said Karol K. Denniston, a veteran bankruptcy lawyer. Its basically a conversation about how to carve up the assets among creditors. It doesnt necessarily fix anything unless someone steps up to offer more funding. Mr. Earley said he wanted the Legislature to adopt a plan supported by Mr. Snyder, which would create a new district for the existing schools and spin off the old one as a subsidiary that would exist solely to pay down debt. The debt payments about $72 million a year for a decade would come from the states tobacco settlement fund, which generates close to $200 million a year. The move, Mr. Snyder said in his budget address last month, would help relieve the districts financial stress. In the Senate, a package of bills introduced by a Republican would establish an appointed interim school board for the new proposed district, gradually pay off much of the districts old debt and transfer $250 million from the states general fund to the school district. To the dismay of Democrats, House Republicans have countered with their own bills that would relieve debt but also tack on conservative-friendly measures like curbing collective bargaining for teachers. Mr. Earley was appointed by Mr. Snyder in January 2015 after leaving the emergency manager post in Flint, where he had served since October 2013, a period in which the city switched to water from the Flint River. (He is scheduled to testify before a congressional committee examining the Flint crisis in March.) ATLANTA For years, voting as a Deep South Democrat in a presidential general election has been like shouting at the television set: It may feel good, but it will not make much of a difference. So the one opportunity for a Democratic voter here to help elect a president has been in party primaries, and this year Southern Democrats appear poised to take full advantage of it. Hillary Clintons resounding victory in South Carolina on Saturday and the favorable outlook for her on Tuesday in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Tennessee, Texas and Virginia could put her in a commanding position in the Democratic race. Mrs. Clintons strength in the Southern primaries rests overwhelmingly on her support from black voters. They made up 61 percent of the South Carolina Democratic primary electorate, and exit polls showed that Mrs. Clinton won them by a margin of 86 percent to 14 percent. But her race against Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont also raises critical questions about how Democrats can attract enough white voters in Southern states to become truly competitive in general elections. WASHINGTON Amy Brenneman, an actress, wants Justice Anthony M. Kennedy to know about the abortion she had when she was a 21-year-old college junior. Taking a page from the movement for same-sex marriage, Ms. Brenneman and more than 100 other women have filed several supporting briefs in a major Supreme Court abortion case to be argued on Wednesday. The briefs tell the stories of women who say their abortions allowed them to control their bodies, plan for the future and welcome children into their lives when their careers were established and their personal lives were on solid ground. The briefs are aimed largely at Justice Kennedy, who holds the crucial vote in abortion cases. They use language and concepts from his four major gay rights decisions, notably his invocation of equal dignity in Junes ruling establishing a constitutional right to same-sex marriage. Why has marriage equality gained so much ground, and reproductive justice seems to be losing so much ground? Ms. Brenneman, known for her roles on NYPD Blue and Judging Amy, said in an interview. Partly, she said, because gay couples have come out of the shadows but many women still believe abortions to be shameful secrets. How, actually, does the world change? As Hillary Clinton, the former secretary of state, and Senator Bernie Sanders compete for the Democratic presidential nomination, they have fleshed out not only rival policy platforms, but also rival theories of change: How to diagnose what needs changing, where to stand relative to the system you would change, and how to measure change. I asked some scholars for their help in distilling and distinguishing these theories of change. Diagnosis If you think the United States ailments have multiple, intersecting, sometimes unrelated causes, Mrs. Clinton may be more your speed. If you believe those ailments can be traced to the root cause of money, Mr. Sanders may be a better fit. Ann Fabian, a historian at Rutgers, suggested that Mrs. Clinton is a fox and Mr. Sanders a hedgehog, a reference to the philosopher Isaiah Berlins formulation about those who pursue many ends (foxes) and those who relate everything to a single central vision (hedgehogs). Which is why Sanders is the better campaigner right now, Professor Fabian added. For Peter Alexander Meyers, a professor of American studies at the Sorbonne Nouvelle in Paris, Mr. Sanderss focus on money is compelling because the money in question is not one thing, or even a thing. A combat soldier who is Sikh sued the Defense Department on Monday, saying his beard and turban had made him the subject of religious discrimination because the Army was putting him through arduous helmet and gas mask testing that no other soldier goes through. The complaint, filed in Federal District Court in Washington by Capt. Simratpal Singh, a decorated West Point graduate and observant Sikh, said that, unlike other soldiers, he had been ordered to undergo three days of performance tests that target him solely because of his religious beliefs. The Army has a ban on long hair and beards, which it says are a battlefield liability because helmets and gas masks must fit well to work. At the same time, the Army has permitted about 100,000 troops to maintain beards for medical reasons, and in recent years it allowed Special Forces troops in Afghanistan to grow beards. None of those people have had to undergo special tests, said Jagmeet Singh, a spokesman for the Sikh Coalition, which filed the suit along with the religious freedom group the Becket Fund and the law firm McDermott Will & Emery. We can only assume Captain Singh is being singled out because of his religion. CAPE TOWN In the days when everyone in the neighborhood celebrated Muslim holidays, Mogamat Khan Salie would take almost two hours to walk the three blocks from the mosque to his home. He lingered at every house along the way, exchanging greetings, inquiring about relatives and accepting well-wishes and good food, as he sauntered through the narrow, cobblestone streets of the Bo-Kaap, a neighborhood that, in a quirk of South Africas apartheid history, was preserved as an ethnic enclave in this otherwise white city. Now, it takes me 15 minutes to get to my house, Mr. Salie, 59, said. At the end of the day, there are no more Muslim people staying in our area. Our culture, our heritage, is going down the drain. Most of the residents of the Bo-Kaap are still Muslim South Africans, descendants of slaves brought here from other African nations, India, Indonesia and Malaysia who became known over the centuries as Cape Malays, or Cape Muslims. MASVINGO, Zimbabwe The lavish annual birthday parties for President Robert G. Mugabe of Zimbabwe, who has been in power since the country gained independence in 1980, have been a stage from which he has swatted away challengers and secured his larger-than-life hold on his nation. Mugabes birthday, a state-run newspaper proclaimed in February, is like that of Jesus Christ. But when Mr. Mugabe the worlds oldest head of state celebrated his 92nd birthday here over the weekend, his advancing age and visible frailty focused attention on the increasingly fierce struggle within his party to succeed him. The jockeying for power, always a subterranean theme at the annual bashes, was too much for Mr. Mugabe to ignore. Blaming senior party members motivated by their own evil interests as well as the British and the Americans for sowing divisions within his party Mr. Mugabe said: Factionalism, factionalism and, I repeat, factionalism has no space. It has no place at all in our party. The presidents admonition, his second in two weeks, is unlikely to extinguish the feuding inside Zimbabwes governing elite. It raises the possibility that, as in other African nations led for decades by a single leader, the struggle for succession here could be long and painful for Zimbabwe as well as for its neighbors, like South Africa, which has already received hundreds of thousands of Zimbabweans fleeing political and economic turmoil. Some social scientists spend their careers researching small-scale topics that may help push forward our understanding of bigger forces shaping our lives. Or not. Many academic papers are never cited. Thats not an issue with Minxin Pei. He aims high and goes for the jugular, taking on one of the biggest topics imaginable in political science: Will Chinas Communist Party stay in power in its present, authoritarian form? Mr. Pei, a professor of government at Claremont McKenna College, argues that the odds are high that by 2030, Chinas government will be quite different, pushed to change by the endemic corruption of the current party system. Corruption is the subject of his forthcoming book, Chinas Crony Capitalism: The Dynamics of Regime Decay. In an interview, he discussed why he believes one-party rule in China is unsustainable. Q. You argue that for the Chinese Communist Party to make it past 2030 in its present form would break a lot of precedents. Why that date? A. At present, Chinas socioeconomic development, measured in income and education attainment, has reached the median level at which comparable countries (Communist, middle-income and Asian) made the transition from dictatorship to some form of democracy in the last 40 years. If Chinas development continues in the next 15 years, even at a much slower pace, it will have created, by 2030, a society in which maintaining an autocratic regime is far more difficult, if not impossible. Historically, no autocratic regimes have survived for more than 74 years, because of the decay of their ideology and the corruption of the ruling elites. The Communist Party will have been in power for 81 years by 2030. HONG KONG A co-owner of a Hong Kong publishing house who disappeared from his home in Thailand only to emerge in police custody in China has given a televised confession, saying that his company circumvented customs regulations to ship politically sensitive books from Hong Kong to the mainland. The disappearance of the businessman, Gui Minhai, a naturalized Swedish citizen, and four other people connected with the publishing house, Mighty Current Media, and its bookshop in the Causeway Bay district of Hong Kong has set off protests and widespread concern about the rule of law in this semiautonomous Chinese city. Mr. Gui and his colleagues churned out gossip-filled books on elite politics in China that were aimed at mainland tourists unable to find such material at home. Mr. Gui was shown on Phoenix Television, a broadcaster based in Hong Kong, on Sunday night saying that he had circumvented Chinas strict rules on importing books, in part by placing shipments in bags that could not be X-rayed. He also said that he had forged documents from Sweden to apply for his Chinese drivers license. TOKYO Japanese prosecutors indicted three former executives of the Tokyo Electric Power Company, the owner of the ruined Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Station, on Monday, charging them with criminal negligence for their role in reactor meltdowns after an earthquake and tsunami five years ago. The indictments were the first stemming from the 2011 nuclear disaster, which spread radiation across a wide area in northeastern Japan and led to evacuations that left more than 100,000 homeless. The sudden and often chaotic evacuations caused the deaths of 44 people, prosecutors said in a statement. They did not identify the victims, but most, if not all, are believed to have been older Fukushima residents who were in hospitals and nursing homes, or bedridden at home, when the disaster occurred. BANGKOK Mahathir Mohamad, who long dominated Malaysian politics as prime minister and leader of its governing party, said on Monday that he was quitting the organization because he was embarrassed by its role in protecting Prime Minister Najib Razak from accusations of corruption. Mr. Mahathir, 90, said that he had no plans to start a new party to rival the one that he was leaving, the United Malays National Organization, and that he was not asking others to quit. I want to leave UMNO because it is no longer UMNO, he said. It is a party dedicated to protecting Najib. I cant be a member of such a party. The parents of an American college student who tearfully apologized on North Korean state television on Monday for having plotted to steal a political banner said they had been unable to speak with their son since the North Korean police seized him two months ago. In a statement about the arrest of the student, Otto F. Warmbier, an undergraduate at the University of Virginia, the parents, Fred and Cindy Warmbier, also said they hoped the televised apology would lead to his release. It was the first time they had said anything publicly about their sons ordeal. Our top priority is to get him back home with us as quickly as possible, read a copy of the statement released to the University of Virginias communications office after Mr. Warmbiers appearance on a North Korean news broadcast. The statement urged the North Korean government to consider his youth and make an important humanitarian gesture by allowing him to return to his loved ones. ISLAMABAD, Pakistan The authorities in Pakistan were bracing for the possibility of violence and escalating protests on Monday after the execution of the man who killed Salmaan Taseer, a governor who had campaigned for changes in the countrys blasphemy laws. Mr. Taseers assassin, Malik Mumtaz Hussain Qadri, was hanged at 4:30 a.m. on Monday at the Adiala Jail, a high-security prison in Rawalpindi, adjacent to Islamabad, the capital. Security forces were put on alert in major cities across the country. Mr. Taseer was a crusading secular politician and governor of Punjab Province at the time of his assassination, campaigning for changes in the blasphemy laws, which he, like other critics, said had been used to persecute religious minorities. For a large section of Pakistani society, the mere suggestion of changing the laws amounts to a capital crime. Mr. Qadri was an elite police guard in Mr. Taseers security detail when he gunned down the governor in January 2011, shooting him 27 times in the back. He confessed to the authorities immediately and proudly, suggesting that he had killed Mr. Taseer specifically because of the governors stance on blasphemy. Mr. Qadri was sentenced to death that year and filed an appeal. ATHENS It was a scene of a type that could become all too common in coming months: Thousands of increasingly desperate people backed up at the frontier between Greece and Macedonia on Monday, stymied in their efforts to reach Germany. A group of angry asylum seekers busted through a razor-wire fence. Armed police officers fired tear gas as frenzied crowds chanted, Open the border! Less than a week after Austria and nine other European countries took steps to stem the flow of refugees from Greece toward Germany and other prosperous countries, the spasm of violence on Greeces northern border brought to life the perils of the European Unions inability so far to settle on a common policy to address the migration crisis. War in Syria, Iraq and Afghanistan, and repression and economic hardship across the Middle East and Africa continue to compel large numbers of people to strike out for Europe. Germany continues to signal that it will accept legitimate refugees, especially from Syria. As the weather grows warmer and the sea crossing from Turkey to Greece safer, the number of people arriving is expected to spike, putting a huge strain on Greece, which in effect is becoming a giant holding center for migrants who cannot go forward because of the new border restrictions, but will not or cannot go back. An estimated 7,000 migrants are at the border with Macedonia, and camps and refugee housing in Athens are full or nearly so. MOSCOW A visibly disturbed woman was arrested on Monday after witnesses said they saw her waving the severed head of a small child outside a Moscow subway station. A Russian television network, REN TV, posted images from video that appeared to show the woman dressed in black and shouting incoherently. The Interfax news agency identified her as Gulchekhra Bobokulova, 38, a native of Uzbekistan, and said she was the childs nanny. The childs body was found near the subway station in an apartment that had been set on fire, the news agency said. Investigators issued a statement saying the woman had been charged with killing the child, who was 3 or 4, and that she appeared to be mentally unstable. Hard-liners, representatives of the sharper edges of Irans Islamic revolutionary ideology, have long had trouble attracting a large voter base. Iranian society has changed rapidly in 15 years, with the middle classes feeling more alienated by the harsh political talk against the United States, Western culture and any form of social relaxation. Obtaining a strong minority in Parliament is not only Mr. Rouhanis victory but also a result of a broader trend in which the Iranian political discourse is shifting away from a polarized universe of hard-liner versus reformist. Those supporting Mr. Rouhani prefer to call themselves pragmatists, centrists and moderates. While the victory is significant, those expecting major social change in Iran will be proved wrong, both supporters of the government and hard-liners say. Those who made it into Parliament under the banner of reforms seem mostly to be cautious politicians. The original reformist leaders, who have pleaded for radical changes in law and ideology, are either in jail or prohibited from participating in the political process. They will quickly face division among themselves, since the supporters of the government is a mixed bag of individuals with different political backgrounds, said Hamidreza Taraghi, a political analyst close to Irans leadership. To write off the hard-liners would be a major mistake. Nevertheless, it is increasingly clear that Ayatollah Khamenei is supporting the moderate trend, at least in foreign policy and on economic issues. He was the main architect of the nuclear agreement. While he continues to warn against the United States, he has allowed continuing contacts between his foreign minister, Mohammad Javad Zarif, and Secretary of State John Kerry. He also welcomes and meets with European heads of state, most recently the president of Switzerland, Johann Schneider-Ammann, on Friday, urging the Swiss to invest in Iran. In Tehran, the epicenter of middle-class culture, Mr. Rouhani has been criticized for his failure to deliver on any of his promises of more freedom and domestic political change. But fear of another four years of hard-liners in Parliament, combined with the successful nuclear deal and the lifting of the sanctions, prompted many to come out and vote for the president and his followers. At a polling station in Shahrak-e Gharb, in western Tehran, families joined the older men who pass the days in a neighboring park for hours of waiting before casting their ballots. Im not into politics, said Reza Sharji, 35, a graphic designer with a long hipster beard. But I do know what I dont want, that is more hard-liners. To Sip: A Smooth Whiskey From South Africa Taste the whiskey made in South Africa with your eyes closed, and you would guess it was bourbon. Distilled from corn and aged in used, lightly charred bourbon casks, it flits with buttery sweetness on the palate. Its the first single-grain whiskey produced in South Africa, and the first whiskey from that country to arrive in the United States. Sip it neat or on the rocks, or let its smooth, lightly honeyed profile shape your next old-fashioned: Bains Cape Mountain Whisky, $29.99 for 750 milliliters from Marketview Liquor, marketviewliquor.com, 888-427-2480, bainswhisky.com. Image Credit... Sonny Figueroa/The New York Times To Appreciate: Favorite Foods in Book Form Beloved local spots that become American food traditions often define a region. Since 1998, the James Beard Foundation has recognized restaurants as diverse as Willie Maes Scotch House in New Orleans, Le Veau dOr in Manhattan and Frank Fats in Sacramento as classics. Now their stories and recipes, frequently just a step or two from home cooking, have been assembled in this bright book that is organized geographically. Charts list what sandwiches, barbecue, pies and fried chicken styles youll find across this land: James Beards All-American Eats by the James Beard Foundation (Rizzoli, $40). To Sear: To Warm Tortillas or Tomatoes Why Woolson eventually muffled herself in phrases like hemisphere of pie or embowered street isnt quite clear. Was she a victim of bias against women, particularly women writers, as Rioux suggests, or were the causes more personal? Can we separate the two? Or, put another way, to what extent is Woolson a symbol of something else (the oppression of women; their exclusion from the literary map) and to what extent does she interest us for and by herself? To argue that Woolson was deprived of opportunities is a stretch. Though most colleges of the period were all-male, she did attend both the progressive Cleveland Female Seminary for wealthy young women and a French finishing school in New York. Her brother-in-law was part owner of a Cleveland newspaper with connections to major New York publishers, and his literary editor had contacts at The Atlantic Monthly and other magazines. When her stories began to appear, Constance Woolson included Fenimore in her signature; as the grandniece of James Fenimore Cooper, she could claim a bankable literary inheritance. And while Rioux rightly claims that it would not be easy to court the favor of the male literary elite, Woolson managed to befriend many of the most refined literary men of the day, to whom she wrote flattering and even flirtatious letters. Woolson did, however, endure a great deal of condescension from mentors who, as she said, did not really believe in womans genius. Self-doubting but proud, increasingly deaf, more and more isolated, believing that she was unattractive (pictures of her suggest the opposite) and evidently ambivalent about her profession, Woolson traveled to Europe in 1879 after the death of her mother. There she met many prominent American expatriates, including James. Yet she remained persistently homeless, moving back and forth between Italy, Switzerland, France, Germany and England. And although she published a great deal, she was plagued by a debilitating pain in her right arm, most likely psychosomatic, whenever she was working on a novel. In December 1886, Woolson rented a villa outside Florence, and James stayed there the following spring for six weeks, occupying the downstairs apartment with a separate entrance. No doubt James and Woolson were simpatico, but when James told Edmund Gosse he was making love to Italy, he wasnt referring to Woolson. Nor did she fall in love with him, as has frequently been supposed, even though these two unusual people obviously shared an enduring and deeply companionable bond. When they vacationed together in Geneva in 1888, they met for dinner but lodged in hotels a mile apart. Whatever the friendship was, it wasnt easy. You do not want to know the little literary women, Woolson wrote to James. Only the great ones like George Eliot. I am not barring myself out here, because I do not come in as a literary woman at all, but as a sort of of admiring aunt. This is about as close as we get to Woolsons ardor, or her anger. Except for one important incident: In Venice in early 1894, worried about her finances, exhausted after the completion of a fourth novel, weakened by illness and relying on laudanum to sleep, Constance Woolson either fell or jumped from the third-story window of her apartment. She had been delirious or she had committed suicide. A grieving James assumed both possibilities were true. Yet no one can know for sure. And so we keep poking at those unsinkable dresses, hoping to find the submerged woman who once wore them. Secretly, she began writing a novel, the history of a strange being, written as truly as I knew how to write it. She never tried to publish it. The manuscript, with its first page and title missing, was deposited at Harvards Houghton Library in 1951 by Howes granddaughter, amid 10 boxes of unsorted prose manuscripts and speeches. Possibly the first person ever to read it was Mary H. Grant, a graduate student who discovered it in 1977 while on a five-day research trip to Cambridge, during which she left her baby with a friend who had three children of her own. Happening upon Howes unpublished and fragmentary manuscript was thrilling but also frustrating, Grant later wrote, because it was going to take hours of precious research time to try to make sense of this wandering document when I had so little babysitting time available in which to work. Howe would have understood. The novel was published in 2004, brilliantly edited by the Howe scholar Gary Williams, as The Hermaphrodite. It tells the story of Laurence, a scholar who lives sometimes as a man and sometimes as a woman. A physician, asked to judge whether Laurence is truly either, says, I shall speak most justly if I say that he is rather both than neither. Men fall in love with Laurence, and so do women; Laurence, whether in pants or petticoats, loves both back. When I wished to trifle, I preferred the latter, Laurence explains. When I wished to reason gravely, I chose the former. Howe was influenced by George Sand, but The Hermaphrodite is also original, and remarkably daring. Her husband would not have approved, nor would hardly anyone else in antebellum America. I make myself obscure in order not to shock other women, she wrote in 1853, in a letter she never sent. In 1854, her first volume of poetry, Passion-Flowers, was published anonymously and without Samuel Howes knowledge. (The Boston publisher that issued it, and sold out the first edition, had rejected a manuscript written by her husband.) Many of the books poems are about her terrible marriage; others concern motherhood. In The Hearts Astronomy, three children peer through the windows at their mother, who, intent to walk a weary mile, stomps round and round the house. They watched me, as Astronomers Whose business lies in heaven afar, Await, beside the slanting glass, The reappearance of a star. She warns them not to mistake her for anything with so predictable an orbit: But mark no steadfast path for me, A comet dire and strange am I. Nathaniel Hawthorne, asked what American books Europeans didnt know about but ought to, named Walden first and then Passion-Flowers. He admired it but didnt approve of it; the poems let out a whole history of domestic unhappiness, he thought. A few years later, he declared that she ought to have been soundly whipt for publishing them. Image The sheet music for Battle Hymn of the Republic from 1898. Credit... Sheridan Libraries/Levy/Gado, via Getty Images But, of course, she was soundly whipped. When he learned the truth, her husband raged at her, said her poems border on the erotic, and then, following a long estrangement, demanded they resume sexual relations or else divorce. It was likely, she wrote to her sister, that he wanted to marry some young girl who would love him supremely. Faced with the prospect of losing her children, she gave in: I made the greatest sacrifice I can ever be called upon to make, she confessed. When she became pregnant yet again, her husband considered putting the baby up for adoption if she disobeyed him. The designer was Michael Fish a name he shares with a BBC meteorologist far more widely known, but whose impact on the dress of the everyday man is far less important. While designing for the distinguished 19th-century mens outfitter Turnbull & Asser in 1965, Mr. Fish, as he liked to be called, originated the broad, brightly patterned neckwear that became known as the kipper tie. At least hes credited as such. (Ties had already crept wider among the outer echelons of society, such as the postwar zoot suiters, whose fashion was a form of sartorial rebellion.) Turnbull & Assers kipper foulards occupied the acceptable side of psychedelic male attire, adopted by the everyman, and, indeed, were introduced stateside by Ralph Lauren a year later, when an order for 1,200 placed by Neiman Marcus would help him found a company called Polo. Image Fishs influence on the spring runways, at, from left, Gucci, J.W. Anderson, Dolce & Gabbana, Dunhill, Gucci and Ann Demeulemeester. But soon Fish would contribute to a seismic shift in mens wear across gender gaps and income brackets. Like Michele and his Gucci reinvention, he had perfect timing. Men in the mid-60s, amid the sexual revolution, feminism and the influence of musicians like Mick Jagger and the Beatles, began to embrace pageantry and explore new modes of dressing in a manner unseen since the late 18th century. When Fish, a 26-year-old working-class boy from Essex in a similar mold to David Bowie and John Lennon, opened his store in 1966, he became the movements leading architect. Many of the signature looks from the late 60s plush velours, heavily figured silks, foppishly high button collars, knotted cravats and suits in any (and every) shade other than gray, black or navy can be traced back to pieces in his eponymous, hellfire-red emporium. He dressed music royalty as well as a steady clientele of ordinary, if deep-pocketed, men. The designer himself described his clothes as pretty, while the slightly more verbose Esquire columnist George Frazier dubbed the eras fashion transformation the Peacock Revolution. A splashy historian at heart, Fish referenced the 18th century in rich brocades, embroidery and military braid, and in his dandy highwayman shirts, ruffled of sleeve and bowed at neck. His dress for men, sported by both Jagger and Bowie, had lines not dissimilar to the elongated shirts of the period; other Fish shirts were banded like Renaissance doublets. His mash-up of those references resulted in a stylistic bouillabaisse where history meets modernity: a 1940s-style trench coat rubbing shoulders with a maharajahs Nehru-collar suit; a fur cape with a pastel-pink trouser-suit. Fabrics were consistently lush silks, brocades, velvets with his most basic suits costing around $120, or about $1,000 today. Although China was a relative latecomer to construction in the Spratly archipelago, its island building is much more extensive than similar efforts by other countries in the area. The recent activity has unsettled the United States, which has about $1.2 trillion in bilateral trade go through the South China Sea every year.Washington does not recognize Chinas ownership of the islands, and in February President Obama reiterated the government's position that the United States will continue to fly, sail and operate wherever international law allows. To reinforce the message, the United States Navy sent missile destroyers in October and January within 12 nautical miles of the islands, the conventional limit for territorial waters. According to statements from David Shear, the top Pentagon official in charge of Asia and the Pacific, the last time before October that the United States had sent ships or aircraft that close to the islands was in 2012. Pedestrian and vehicle traffic in downtown Auburn may be affected for the next few years in light of a high-rise student housing development proposed for the Chevron property on North College Street. The Auburn City Council will vote Tuesday night on an agreement with ACC OP (College Street) LLC to allow the closure and use of portions of the Wright Street, North College Street and West Glenn Avenue rights-of-way for construction on the proposed seven-story 191 College student housing development. As per the agreement, North College Street, West Glenn Avenue and Wright Street sidewalks may be closed at the developers election from either May 1, 2016 through and including Aug. 31, 2018 or from May 1, 2017 through and including Aug. 31, 2019. The sidewalk must be reopened as soon as it is accessible and safe for pedestrians in consultation with the city engineer or his designee and the chief building official, the agreement states. If approved, lanes on West Glenn Avenue may be temporarily reduced to 10 feet to allow a portion of the roadway to be fenced for construction. The east side of Wright Street would be closed and the west side would be converted to two temporary right and left turn lanes at a minimum of 11 feet wide each. A construction site fence would be put up on a portion of North College Street, extending into the existing south bound lane adjacent to the project site. According to city engineer Jeff Ramsey, the affected lane is currently extra wide, so it would be narrowed and remain open during construction. The portion of the affected lane would be closed from either May 1, 2016 to and including Aug. 31, 2018 or May 1, 2017 through and including Aug. 31, 2019. Construction deliveries would be prohibited from 12 p.m. the Friday before home football game weekends to the following Monday, with some Sunday deliveries allowed at the discretion of the city engineer. No major utility work shall be performed on West Glenn Avenue, North College Street or Wright Street during Auburn Universitys football season unless approved by the city engineer, the agreement states. The resolution that the City Council will vote on Tuesday night also includes a tower crane use agreement. The boom of the on-site tower crane would extend approximately 255 feet and swing over North College Street, West Glenn Avenue and Wright Street rights-of-way. Site plans for the proposed seven-story mixed-use development on 1.57 acres on the corner of College Street and Glenn Avenue where a Chevron gas station is currently located were submitted to the city in October 2015. They indicate the structure would stand a total of 76.5 feet tallhitting the Urban Cores 75 foot maximum building height with the extra height allowed for a parapet wall to hide rooftop equipment from visibility. It will have 127 residential units with 465 beds with a total floor area of 439,468 square feet. Commercial and/or office space would front three sides of the building, facing College Street, Glenn Avenue and Wright Street. The development will consist of two below grade parking levels and six above grade parking levels. UPDATE: A person of interest has been developed in the Opelika shooting death of 22-year-old Jacob Austin Smith Saturday. Smith, of Auburn, was shot and killed in the 500 block of Raintree Street on Feb. 27. The investigation is still ongoing. Investigators are currently following up on several promising leads, according to a press release from the Opelika Police Department. Capt. Shane Healey said he expects more information to become available by tomorrow morning. Further developments will be reported as they occur. Anyone with any information regarding the case is asked to contact the Opelika Police Department Investigative Services Division at (334)705-5220 or the Secret Witness Hotline at (334)745-8665. -------------------------------- A 22-year-old man was shot and killed Saturday night in Opelika. Jacob Austin Smith, of Auburn, was pronounced dead at 10:15 p.m., after he was found suffering from apparent gunshot wounds in the 500 block of Raintree Street, according to Opelika police and Lee County Coroner Bill Harris. On Feb. 27, 2016, at approximately 8:59 p.m., Opelika police responded to a call of shots fired in the 500 block of Raintree Street. Upon arrival, police located a 22-year-old male victim lying in the yard of a residence suffering from an apparent gunshot wound, the Opelika Police Department stated in a press release. Paramedics from the OPD responded to the scene and provided medical care for the victim, who was later transported to East Alabama Medical Center where he succumbed to his injuries. Smith was pronounced dead at 10:15 p.m. by an emergency room physician. The Lee County Coroners Office was contacted, and Harris said in a release Sunday morning that Smith died from multiple gunshot wounds. It is too early in the investigation to determine circumstances surrounding the shooting, according to officials. A full investigation is being conducted by Opelika police, and it is too early to tell what occurred. Further details will be made available as they are uncovered, the OPD said. Smiths body will be taken to the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences Medical Examiners Office in Montgomery for a postmortem examination. This case is ongoing and remains under investigation by the Opelika Police Department, the Lee County Coroners Office and the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences. Anyone with any information on this case is asked to contact the Opelika Police Departments Investigative Services Division at (334)705-5220 or the Secret Witness Hotline at (334)745-8665. You may hear little of it, but Idahos nearly 4-year-old law that allows people to salvage roadkill is surprisingly popular. According to an online data base maintained by the Idaho Department of Fish and Game, more than 4,800 animals have been salvaged from the states roadways since the law took effect. That includes 1,996 whitetail deer, 1,405 mule deer, 798 elk and 308 moose. Salvaging roadkill is most popular in the Panhandle region, where 1,803 animals have been recovered. The southwest region comes in second with 634 salvages, the Clearwater region is third at 521, followed by the Magic Valley with 480, upper Snake 478, southeast 447 and the Salmon region with 356. There is lots of folks taking advantage of it all across the state in all of the regions on all of the highways, said Gregg Servheen of the Idaho Department of Fish and Game at Boise. We have like 31,000 roadkill records (in the database). Of those, maybe we have 15 percent that are salvaged. But that doesnt mean 15 percent of animals killed on highways are salvaged. The data base is an incomplete record of road-killed animals that dates back decades. Servheen said it doesnt begin to represent the true toll highways and roads take on wildlife. The database is maintained by employees of the Idaho Transportation Department and Idaho Department of Fish and Game who try to keep track of roadkill they remove. Since 2012 it includes information from those who salvage roadkill. According to the roadkill salvage law, people who pick up animals must submit a report within 24 hours and receive a salvage permit within 72 hours. The simplest way to do that is to visit https://idfg.idaho.gov/species/roadkill/add. Those who report salvages by visiting the website and filling out a form can print a salvage permit. No other action is required. People can also report roadkill without salvaging by visiting the website. Those who report by phone are mailed a permit. People who salvage can take as little or as much of the animals as they wish. For example, they can take just the antlers. Or they can take just the backstraps. If hunters were to do that with a deer or elk they shot, they would face prosecution for wasting a game animal. But roadkill is different. Its not a question of waste, Servheen said. Its not a legal take, it was an accident take via collision. A list of animals that are legal to salvage is available at https://idfg.idaho.gov/species/roadkill/salvage/list. Mark Carson, conservation supervisor for the Clearwater region at Lewiston, said there was some worry among conservation officers when the law first hit the books. They were concerned guys were going to be covering illegal critters and say its roadkill. That may be occurring some places, but its certainly not widespread, he said. It puts thousands of pounds of game meat back on the table instead of on the side of the road, which is a really good thing. The reports are viewable by anybody who visits the website, although names are not displayed. Some reporters leave scant information. Others provide details. For example, consider this report from Jan. 14 regarding a whitetail deer hit by a car on Highway 54 near Farragut State Park: Normal whitetail deer color, young of the year, was still alive when first seen. I went home to get a hammer to kill it, but deer was dead when I returned. Deer had 2 broken legs and a broken hip. Or this snippet from a Feb. 14 report of a salvaged elk on U.S. Highway 26 near Ririe in the upper Snake region: 3 dead someone salvaged 1 I salvaged 1 the other was pretty much toast. Servheen said the salvage rule is also helping biologists track where animal/vehicle collisions are happening and in places where it is frequent to explore possible solutions. Wildlife underpasses have been constructed outside of Boise, near Silverwood north of Coeur dAlene and north of Copeland in the Panhandle to try to protect wildlife and drivers. North of Moscow a moose alert sign flashes when an animal is sensed crossing U.S. Highway 95. We have made some tentative work toward trying to address the problem, but we have a long way to go to help driver safety and to keep our wildlife and drivers safe, Servheen said. Unlike our friends in England, who operate a multiparty parliamentary form of government, the American political system is built around a winner-take-all dynamic that facilitates the perpetuation of two parties. Barring a major change in the Constitution, dont expect third parties to become serious players anytime soon. This reality, however, doesnt stop third-party contenders from launching bids for the presidency. Former president Theodore Roosevelt, former Alabama governor George Wallace and former Illinois congressman John Anderson are just a few minor party contenders who decided to take the big plunge. The last third-party contender to make a real impact with voters was Texas billionaire H. Ross Perot in 1992, who was able to garner 19 percent of the popular vote, without carrying a single state. So far in this cycle, no big names have formally announced third party bids for the presidency, although rumors have been swirling around the potential candidacy of former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg. The rumors are so strong that USA Today/Suffolk University decided to commission a poll to find out what a three-way race among Bernie Sanders, Donald Trump and Bloomberg would look like. Trump came out on top, with 37 percent, Sanders a strong second at 30 percent, and Bloomberg trailed with 16 percent. Despite those challenging numbers, Bloomberg allies believe there is a path for the Democrat-turned-Republican-turned-independent to 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. Robert Wolf, founder of 32 Advisors, told Politico, I would certainly put it at a much greater possibility than when Perot ran. I think the far-left populist and far-right conservative movements each make up about a 20 percent slice, so it leaves a lot of room. [Bloomberg] could do very well with the popular vote but the electoral map could be more difficult. To the contrary, I think the most likely scenario would have Bloomberg playing the spoiler for the Democratic nominee. Outside of New York City, Bloomberg is essentially known for three things restrictions on gun ownership, aggressive policing and nanny state policies such as limiting the size of sodas you can consume. While these policy initiatives may be popular in the Big Apple, they will get a decidedly different reaction in other parts of the country. The three-term mayors obsession with gun control will be a deal breaker with most red-state Republicans, aggressive policing will put him squarely at odds with black voters, and the nanny state policies will erode his potential appeal to libertarians. When you slice these three groups off of the electoral pie, Bloomberg is left with white liberals, Rockefeller Republicans in blue states, Latinos and Asians as potential voters. Outside of Rockefeller Republicans, every demographic that Bloomberg could appeal to comes straight out of the Democratic coalition. Plus, it must also be stated that Rockefeller Republicans are a pretty rare breed in 2016 America. Most of them became Democrats, and the ones who still exist reside mostly in places like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., and New York City, meaning their votes wont affect the electoral map at all. Bloomberg could also become the beneficiary of lingering hurt feelings from the Democratic primary. If Hillary Clinton wins ugly, Bernie voters could look to punish her in the general election by voting for Bloomberg. On the flip side, if Bernie wins, and Hillary voters believe that he is just too liberal to lead the country, they could easily end up in camp Bloomberg. Theres one thing we know for sure about a Bloomberg candidacy its good news for the GOP. Staff opinion columnist John Phillips can be heard weekdays at 3 p.m. on The Drive Home with Jillian Barberie and John Phillips on KABC/AM 790. RICHMOND, Calif. A driver was fatally shot over the weekend in the seventh shooting on a Northern California freeway in recent months, authorities said Monday. The California Highway Patrol said some of the shootings may be connected to a gang feud. In the latest incident, a 40-year-old man was shot and killed Saturday about 1 a.m. while driving his Jeep west on Interstate 80. The Jeep left the freeway and rolled several times down an embankment. Hill declined to release the victims name. He said investigators believe the victim was targeted but declined to say why. Two people have been killed and five others wounded, including a toddler, in car-to-car shootings since Nov. 2 along the same stretch of Interstate 80 between Richmond and Pinole, the CHP says. No arrests have been made. CHP investigators believe the shootings may be connected because they occurred in the same small area at roughly the same time of night. The methods also have been similar. CHP spokesman Daniel Hill urged any possible witnesses to call (510) 622-4609. Witnesses can remain anonymous, he said. Even the smallest detail could help in cracking this open, he said. The journalism movie Spotlight was a bit of a surprise as the best picture winner, but the main thing people were talking about at the 88th Academy Awards on Sunday was race and how host Chris Rock addressed it. Rock set the tone immediately with his opening lines. After a compilation of the years movies opened the awards, Rock said hello and quipped, I counted at least 15 black people on that montage! This is the 88th Academy Awards, Rock noted. Which means, this whole no-black-nominee thing has happened at least 71 other times, Rock said. Why no protests before? We had real things to protest at the time. We were too busy being raped and lynched to care about who won best cinematographer. Leonardo DiCaprio won his first Oscar, for The Revenant. After thanking the movies cast and crew, DiCaprio, a longtime environmentalist, pointed out that 2015 was the hottest year on record and that filming for the movie had to move far south (to the tip of South America) to have snow. Climate change is real. We need to support leaders around the world who do not speak for the big polluters and the big corporations, but who speak for all of humanity. Alejandro G. Inarritu won best director for The Revenant, making him the first person in 65 years to win back-to-back best director awards. He won last year for Birdman. Brie Larson won the best actress award for Room. Despite its wins for actor and director, The Revenant was upset for best picture by Spotlight. The film is about The Boston Globes investigation into child sex abuse and the Catholic Church. The dystopian action film Mad Max: Fury Road cleaned up with six awards in technical categories such as costume design and sound editing. DIVERSITY ADDRESSED Rock dedicated almost all of his opening monologue to diversity, and it paid off with laughs. He got right to the fact that African American celebrities, such as actress Jada Pinkett Smith, were boycotting the awards. He said people were telling him to boycott the awards, which had no black nominees for the second year in a row. How come its only unemployed people that tell you to quit something, Rock said. The last thing I need is to lose another job to Kevin Hart! (Rock later joked that Hart would be next years host.) In one of his more risque jokes, Rock noted Smiths decision to boycott the Oscars. (Its) like me boycotting Rihannas panties. I wasnt invited! We want opportunity, Rock said. We want the black actors to get the same opportunities as white actors. Thats it! There were other efforts to address race but softened with jokes. In one prerecorded segment, African American actors including Whoopi Goldberg and Saturday Night Lives Leslie Jones made parody cameos in faux clips from Joy and The Revenant, poking fun at stereotypes. In another, to mark Black History Month, Angela Bassett said, Tonight, we honor someone who has shattered barriers with his ground-breaking performances, from Enemy of the State to Shark Tale. This man has long been an inspiration to his people. We simply call him Jack Black. (The joke being that Will Smith was in both of these movies, as was Black, who is white.) Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs appeared toward the end of the show to note the Academys new initiatives to encourage diversity in its membership. Everyone in the Hollywood community has a role to play in bringing about the vital changes the industry needs so that we can accurately reflect the world today, she said. Vice President Joe Biden showed up, advocating for people to pledge to help prevent sex abuse. Despite significant progress over the last few years, too many women and men on and off college campuses are still victims of sexual abuse, he said. Lets change the culture. WASHINGTON The first time President Barack Obama sat down to pick a new U.S. Supreme Court justice, surprised aides discovered that he had gone beyond the briefing memos to read the leading candidates past judicial rulings. The onetime constitutional law teacher was in his element, a legal nerd, as one aide called Obama, putting theory into practice. But if nothing else, the past seven years have made clear to Obama that the Supreme Court is anything but a nerdy, academic exercise. His current standoff with the U.S. Senate over a replacement for Justice Antonin Scalia culminates a profoundly consequential struggle over not just the law, but power, politics and his own legacy. During his two terms in the White House, the Supreme Court has given Obama fits, given him reprieves and now given him a new mission for his final year in office. He has publicly feuded with the court as few of his modern predecessors have. By one measure, he has enjoyed less success before the court than any president since World War II. But today his unexpected chance to remake the court depends on overcoming the formidable will of Senate Republicans. Its fair to say hes had a more contentious relationship with the court than any president I can remember, at least since Nixon, said Curt Levey, a veteran of judicial nomination battles and executive director of the FreedomWorks Foundation, a conservative advocacy group. This is a fight to the death for control of the Supreme Court. Obama arrives at this fight with a complicated history with the court. Perhaps no president since William Howard Taft, a former judge and future Supreme Court chief justice, entered the White House more immersed in constitutional theory than Obama, and few in modern times have seen theory explode into political reality more starkly. Whatever ivory-tower romance Obama once harbored for the court has been hardened by years of conflict. The court unanimously slapped him down for exceeding his power to make recess appointments and ruled that he overstepped by trying to force family businesses like Hobby Lobby to pay for insurance coverage of contraceptives if that requirement violated religious beliefs. The court overturned campaign finance laws and part of the Voting Rights Act over Obamas objections. The court agreed with Obama on legalizing same-sex marriage and, in perhaps the most notable cases for his presidency, upheld the Affordable Care Act twice against determined conservative challenges. But even in preserving Obamas signature domestic initiative, the court invalidated part of the health care program requiring states to expand Medicaid coverage, resulting in 19 states opting not to do so. A study by FiveThirtyEight.com, a news analysis website, found at the end of the last court term in June that the Obama administration had won just 47 percent of the cases it was a party to at the Supreme Court, fewer than any of the 11 previous presidents going back to Harry S. Truman. John F. Kennedy, who until Obama enjoyed the lowest victory rate since World War II, won 58 percent of his cases. Ronald Reagan topped the modern presidents with a 73 percent success rate. Obamas supporters attribute that to an ideologically conservative court while his opponents say it stems from the presidents aggressive abuses of power. Obamas more recent predecessors have struggled with the court. Bill Clinton lost a 9-0 decision when he tried to delay a sexual harassment lawsuit by a former Arkansas state worker until after his presidency, a lawsuit that ultimately led to the disclosure of his liaisons with Monica Lewinsky and his impeachment for perjury and obstruction of justice. The Supreme Court ordered the end of recounts in Florida that cleared the way for George W. Bushs ascension to the presidency, but after he took office the justices rejected his broad interpretations of his executive power to hold terror suspects at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, without judicial review and to try them before military commissions. Obama has made his own defeats into a public issue, taking his argument onto the campaign trail and chastising the justices in person at a State of the Union address for their ruling in the Citizens United campaign finance case. In publicizing that his administration had made no backup plans if his health care plan were struck down, critics said he was essentially trying to pressure the court, an interpretation his advisers reject. Obama has experienced the court in three distinct phases teaching constitutional law for 12 years at the University of Chicago, voting on Supreme Court nominees for four years as a senator and selecting nominees and litigating cases for seven years as president. When Obama taught at Chicago and when I got to know him, he was a believer in the role of the court maintaining our constitutional system and protecting constitutional rights, said professor Geoffrey R. Stone, a colleague at the university. But he was always pretty moderate in his views. He was not someone who was a strong judicial activist. Indeed, Obama expressed reservations about the activism of Chief Justice Earl Warrens court although Obama supported its liberal rulings on segregation and civil rights. His view was that the Warren court was too active for his taste, Stone said. In Obamas 2006 book, The Audacity of Hope, he suggested the left would have been better off winning victories in the electoral arena. I wondered if, in our reliance on the courts to vindicate not only our rights but also our values, progressives had lost too much faith in democracy, he wrote. (BEGIN OPTIONAL TRIM.) Still, in a 2007 speech, he said compassion, not just the letter of the law, should come into play. We need somebody whos got the heart, the empathy, to recognize what its like to be a young teenage mom, he said. The empathy to understand what its like to be poor or African-American or gay or disabled or old. And thats the criteria by which Im going to be selecting my judges. He argued that the Senate had every right to block a presidents choices even by filibuster. Because federal judges receive lifetime appointments and often serve through the terms of multiple presidents, it behooves a president and benefits our democracy to find moderate nominees who can garner some measure of bipartisan support, he wrote in his book. (END OPTIONAL TRIM.) He voted against the confirmation of Chief Justice John Roberts and supported a filibuster against Justice Samuel Alito that ultimately failed. The White House said Obama, from the vantage point of a president whose own nominations are subject to filibuster, now regrets his support for the Alito filibuster. But conservatives see his focus on empathy as code for steering cases based on desired outcomes. On matters that he really cares about, theres no meaningful difference between his political views and his constitutional views, said M. Edward Whelan III, president of the Ethics & Public Policy Center and a former Scalia clerk. In effect, the empathy standard that hes used in nominating justices is just camouflage for judicial lawlessness. Obama in recent years has dropped the word empathy but found other ways of saying what he meant. In a post last week on Scotusblog, a website that tracks the Supreme Court, Obama said he wants a justice who interprets the law and does not make it. (STORY CAN END HERE. OPTIONAL MATERIAL FOLLOWS.) But some decisions, Obama added, will be shaped by his or her own experience, ethics and judgment. Justice, he added, is not about abstract legal theory, nor some footnote in a dusty casebook. Its the kind of life experience earned outside the classroom and the courtroom. Obama has had two chances until now to reorient the court through his nominations of justices Sonia Sotomayor in 2009 and Elena Kagan a year later. He approached this in a very lawyerly, kind of scholarly way, recalled Cynthia Hogan, who as a White House lawyer helped direct the process. He was looking for someone who was going to be supersmart and approach the law in a reasonable way. Indeed, he disappointed some of his liberal supporters who were looking for more firebrand choices, a Scalia for the left. Sotomayor and Kagan have both turned out to be reliable votes for the liberal wing of the court. But because they replaced two retiring liberals, Justices David Souter and John Paul Stevens, their appointments merely cemented those seats for years to come rather than shifting the balance of the court. Im not sure there are any important cases that have been decided since Sotomayor and Kagan joined the court that wouldnt have turned out the same way had Souter and Stevens stayed on the court, Stone said. So in that sense he hasnt really changed anything. Hes kept the same balance in place. That is why the fight over Scalias replacement is so momentous, magnified because two of the most significant initiatives of Obamas presidency, on immigration and climate change, are awaiting the eventual judgment of a court now ideologically divided 4-4. This one is different, Stone said. Obviously, the opportunity to replace Scalia is the first time hes had a chance to affect the balance on the court. And historically, its potentially a very important appointment. IDOMENI, Greece Pressed against coils of razor wire and shouting Help us!, refugees stranded at Greeces northern border were pushed back Monday by Macedonian police using tear gas and stun grenades, as the European Union scrambled to ease the escalating number of stranded migrants in Greece. In a chaotic scene, Syrian and Iraqi refugees forced their way through part of a Macedonian border fence, some clutching infants or struggling to free duffel bags caught in the razor-wire fence. They were met by Macedonian riot police, bolstered by dozens of special forces officers flown in by helicopter to quell a refugee protest. Amnesty International condemned European government for failing to adequately help stranded migrants. Tragically, there seems to be more willingness among European countries to coordinate blocking borders than to provide refugees and asylum-seekers with protection and basic services, said Giorgos Kosmopoulos, Amnestys director in Greece. Some 7,000 migrants, including many from Syria and Iraq, are crammed into a tiny camp at the Greek border village of Idomeni, and hundreds more are arriving daily. The border pileup began ten days ago, when Austria and four ex-Yugoslav countries on the Balkan migrant route north into Western Europe decided to slow border access for migrants to a trickle and stopped letting Afghan migrants travel through their territory. A U.N. official says those nations never did explain who made the decision on Afghan migrants, or why. Donald Tusk, the European Council President, begins of tour of those countries Tuesday, starting in Vienna, which has been strongly criticized by other EU nations for its caps on asylum-seekers, and ending Thursday in Athens. Tusk is aiming to prepare for a meeting of leaders from the EU and Turkey on March 7, where the key topic will be trying to halt the flow of migrants from Turkey to Greece. The number of migrants stranded in Greece topped 22,000 over the weekend, according to government estimates. Thousands have been sleeping outside in parks and along northbound highways, as refugee shelters quickly overflowed. Very many people were forced to sleep in the open, without tents, wrapped in blankets, said 45-year-old Syrian refugee Nidal Jojack, who has been camped out with her family at Idomeni for three days. It was very cold. The borders are effectively closed, its a huge problem. To get food, we have to wait in very long queues, she said. Jojack said she hopes to reach Germany, where her 18-year-old son has already arrived. Despite receiving the bulk of the refugees seeking the safety of Europe, Germany has opposed unilateral border restrictions and continued to back an EU-wide solution for the migrant crisis. German Chancellor Angela Merkel is resisting calls at home and elsewhere in Europe for limits on refugees like Austria. We cant do this in such a way that we simply abandon Greece, she told public ARD television. This is exactly what I fear: When one country defines its limit, another must suffer. That is not my Europe. At next Mondays summit, EU leaders will discuss how we can restore the (passport-free) Schengen system step by step with Greece, Merkel said. But Austrias deputy chancellor, Reinhold Mitterlehner in a sign of continued diplomatic tensions declared Monday that the refugee restrictions are necessary (and) were going to maintain them. Wolf Piccoli, head of research the global advisory firm Teneo Intelligence, said the EU was making a risky bet with its strategy on migration. The EU is betting on incremental steps, hoping that the backlog will deter potential migrants before tensions in Greece raise concerns over the countrys institutions, he said. So far, border closures have not stopped migrants from coming. Greek authorities say over 1,800 people a day have reached Greeces islands from Turkey in February, slightly down from 2,175 a day in January. Accidents are frequent as dozens cram into unseaworthy boats provided for a high price by smuggling gangs. Ninety-six people have drowned in Greek waters alone so far this year, with another 34 missing at sea. Struggling to cope with the crisis, Greeces government has issued a temporary ban on journalists visiting migrant camps and called opposition party leaders to an emergency meeting Friday with Prime Minister Alexis Tsipras. TEHRAN, Iran A day after results in the capital showed a landslide victory for reformist and moderate allies of President Hassan Rouhani in Irans parliamentary elections, state television Sunday reported a nationwide triumph for hard-liners. The English-language news channel Press TV echoed forecasts by media organizations affiliated with the hard-liners, saying that their candidates had won decisively outside the major city centers. But, as final nationwide results had not been announced, it remained unclear how the hard-liners had done. In Tehran, where results are official, the urban middle classes voted in large numbers for the combined list of reformers and moderates that support Rouhani. In other large cities, many reformists also won. While Irans eight biggest cities make up more than half the countrys population, they control only 57 of the 290 seats in Parliament. More than 30 million Iranians voted Friday in what was actually two elections, one for a new Parliament and the other for an influential clerical council. The elections were the first since the completion of an international agreement to curb Irans nuclear program that included the lifting of economic sanctions against the country, a deal supported by the reformist camp and opposed by hard-liners. Voter turnout for the two contests exceeded 60 percent, according to Irans Interior Ministry. On Sunday, the Interior Ministry, where the votes are counted, announced that the one hard-liner who had initially seemed to have secured one of the 30 parliamentary seats for Tehran, had actually not made the threshold. The candidate, Gholam Ali Haddad Adel, is a former speaker of Parliament whose daughter is married to a son of the supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Now all seats in Tehran have gone to the reformist-moderate list, a significant gain. Hard-liners close to Khamenei have cautioned against allowing the nuclear accord and its promised economic benefits to weaken Irans resolve to resist Western influences. It is, of course, still unclear how many seats the anti-reform candidates will ultimately win. But a robust minority of reformers and moderates could help Rouhani implement economic reforms after the lifting of nuclear sanctions in January, analysts say. All these people, the majority of the eligible voters, have spoken out against the hard-liners, said Saeed Laylaz, a pro-government activist and economist. He predicted that many of the independent candidates would end up supporting Rouhani. Clearly his power and influence have now increased. The ministry also announced that in the election for the clerical Assembly of Experts, two influential hard-line clerics had failed to make the threshold. One, Ayatollah Mohammad Yazdi, the incumbent head of the assembly, whose 88 members are tasked with supervising the supreme leader, failed to get enough votes in Tehran. Another, Ayatollah Mohammad-Taghi Mesbah Yazdi, 81, who was often called the spiritual father of former President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad, also failed to win re-election. The top vote-getter in Tehran was former President Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, a former chief of the council. A picture posted on his Instagram page showed him overlooking Tehran. The comments included a statement from his office that said: No one is able to resist against the will of the majority of the people and whoever the people dont want has to step aside. Rouhani, who came in third in the Tehran vote for the Assembly of Experts, also issued a statement praising the elections. The people showed their power once again and gave more credibility and strength to their elected government, he said, adding he would work with anyone who won election to build a future for Iran. The Interior Ministry said official results were expected Tuesday. We have written in these pages about how the Americans with Disabilities Act has been used by unscrupulous lawyers and serial litigants to shake down businesses for thousands of dollars over such minor violations as hanging a bathroom mirror a fraction of an inch too high or allowing the handicapped symbol painted on a parking space to fade too much. In recent years, this unfortunate trend has spread to technical violations of state labor laws. The latest vehicle for these extortionist lawsuits is the Private Attorney General Act, signed into law in 2004, which allows employees to directly sue their employers for Labor Code violations. In a recent op-ed column, Assemblywoman Shannon Grove, R-Bakersfield, explains how attorneys file class-action cases with the Labor and Workforce Development Agency under PAGA, which has less stringent procedural requirements, then file the lawsuit with the state courts if the agency does not launch its own investigation within 33 days, which happens in most cases. While complaints usually allege wage statement errors or failures to offer meal breaks, these accusations are only used as a pretense to get a judge to give an attorney permission to troll through a companys books looking for Labor Code violations, no matter how insignificant. Ms. Grove recounted the story of Bakersfield business owner Larry Jenkins, who faced a $14.5 million lawsuit because he offered his employees a bonus for working safely, but neglected to include the bonus rate in the regular pay rate he used to calculate his employees overtime pay. As the arbitrator in the case candidly admitted to him, This is Californias legal way of extortion. Mr. Jenkins eventually settled the case for $1.5 million, but has had enough of Californias anti-business, litigation-happy environment. He, like so many others, is planning to move his business to Texas. As this case illustrates, such lawsuit abuse has real costs: Jobs are lost, economic growth is stunted, some businesses are forced to shut down, and some owners get fed up and move. California must put an end to this litigious exploitation if it is to stop its self-imposed bleeding of jobs and productivity to friendlier climes. ANAHEIM Five of 12 people arrested after a clash between Ku Klux Klan members and counterprotesters Saturday at Pearson Park were released Sunday after police determined that they were acting in self-defense against counterprotesters. This regrettable incident was the result of approximately 10-20 individuals who came to the park with the intent of perpetrating violence, Anaheim police said Sunday night. Of those arrested, only one is a resident of Anaheim. The remainder came from other cities and counties to insert themselves into the situation. Regardless of an individual or groups beliefs or ideologies, they are entitled to live without the fear of physical violence and have the right, under the law, to defend themselves when attacked. A Cal State San Bernardino professor who was there to do research found himself in the middle of the melee. All that stood between two members of the Ku Klux Klan and angry counterprotesters swinging wooden planks was Brian Levin and his iPhone, capturing it all on video. Dont hurt him, sir! Dont hurt him, sir! pleaded Levin, the professor who unexpectedly found himself protecting the safety and civil rights of two Klansmen. Get away! Get away from this gentleman! Levin, director of CSUSBs Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism, went to the park on Saturday to conduct research; hed hoped to ask rallying Klansmen whom they support for president, among other questions. Instead, he said Sunday, he spent three surreal minutes caught up in a burst of violence. Three counterprotesters were stabbed. Two of the Klansmen were stomped while they were on the ground. Both were hospitalized, and one was released. Saturdays violence caught everybody by surprise, Levin said, explaining that there is little Klan activity in Southern California other than handing out leaflets. Hate groups such as the Skinheads and Neo-Nazis tend to be more prone to crime and violence, he said. On the hierarchy of violence, (the Klan) tend to be more obnoxious than dangerous, Levin said. What he found disquieting was not just that he was caught in the middle of the brutality, but that only one other person tried to dissuade the counterprotesters. I would have thought someone else would have come out to help me protect them, he said. Thats something thats going to stick with me. And, he said, nobody did anything to protect him. At first, Levin did not feel that the counterprotesters anger and violence were directed at him until he was approached by two frenzied men with planks. They paused at the wailing of approaching sirens. I was almost preparing myself to have my face smashed, Levin said. The Ku Klux Klan announced last week that it planned to hold a rally at Pearson Park. When six Klansmen pulled up in a black SUV about noon Saturday, about 30 counterprotesters were there waiting for them, police said. Levin had been there since about 10 a.m., planning to interview Klan members and document the rally. He said he has attended hate rallies as a researcher for about 20 years. Previously, he was a New York Police Department officer. When the Klansmen arrived, all hell broke loose, Levin said. Everything happened and escalated incredibly fast. One of the first things Levin noticed, he said, was an apparent lack of police. Theres nobody here to put some kind of pause on this, he thought. Anaheim police said Sunday that they had personnel at the event and that six additional patrol units were on scene within two minutes of the first report of violence. Levin said a phalanx of protesters moved swiftly in the direction of the Klan members. As he walked toward the SUV, he saw people with wooden planks smashing the windshield and a rear window. The SUV sped away, Levin said, but it left behind three Klansmen, who faced a crowd of angry counterprotesters. Thats when Levins police training kicked in. My thing was about making sure nobody was hurt and making sure to document what was going on, he said. He found himself protecting two of the Klansmen, who he estimated were being attacked by between six and 15 counterprotesters. This is not what Dr. King was about, he told the group as he put himself between the two opposing sides. At least one of the Klansmen fell to the ground, an especially vulnerable position. Levin said he wanted to lead them away because it would be harder to hit a moving target. So Levin ran with the two Klansmen, still shooting video. In an exchange recorded on his iPhone, Levin asked one of the Klansmen: How do you feel that a Jewish person helped save your life today? I thank you, the man said with a nod. I thank you. Register staff writer Fred Swegles contributed to this report. HELENA Gov. Steve Bullock made his re-election campaign official Monday afternoon, walking the hallway from his office to Secretary of State Linda McCulloch's to file the paperwork. Bullock made the trip with his wife and three children, along with Lt. Gov. Mike Cooney. "At the end of the day this isn't really about me or Mike," Bullock said. "It's about what kind of state we can continue to create for our kids and grandkids and to make sure that Montana provides all those opportunities." The governor said his campaign will focus on job creation, wage growth and ensuring Montana remains a fiscally prudent state, issues that have been the centerpiece of what he hopes to be his second term in office. He also laid out differences between himself and Republican opponent Greg Gianforte, who announced his candidacy earlier this year and has yet to officially file. "I think that there's a lot at stake this election for certain." Bullock cast Gianforte as the candidate who wants to gut Montana's tax structure and raid the state's rainy day fund, a hallmark of Bullock's administration. In a release Monday, Gianforte, 54, said it's time for a change. Aside from being at the bottom of the nation in wages, we are entering even more challenging times. Grain prices are down. Miners, railroaders, timber community families, and the Bakken have seen some painful layoffs, and there are more threats on the horizon," he said. "Its time for new leadership. Montanans are looking for a high-wage job creator who can bring business experience to Helena. Bullock, 49, was elected governor in 2013 when he beat former U.S. Rep. Rick Hill. He is running with Cooney, 61, who was named lieutenant governor Dec. 30 after former Lt. Gov. Angela McLean announced she was leaving for a job in the office of the Commissioner of Higher Education. Bullock has required the state to maintain a $300 million rainy day fund, something Gianforte has said could be tapped to help address the states infrastructure woes. The 2016 governors race is shaping up to be one of the most expensive in Montanas history. Bullock has raised $1.2 million in donations since 2014; Gianforte has brought in $570,000 since forming an exploratory committee last summer. Gianforte, a wealthy businessman, has issued a no-PAC pledge, calling on Bullock to not accept and return any money hes received from political action committees. So far Bullock has received $68,214 from such committees. His campaign has called the pledge silly, and pointed out Gianforte has a large amount of personal funds he can tap. Based on tax records, Gianforte reported income of $220.5 million between 2005 and 2014. In 2001, he sold his Bozeman tech firm RightNow Technologies to Oracle for $1.8 billion. Montana Republican Party Chairman Jeff Essmann said Bullock's record on protecting jobs in the state's natural resource industry is weak. Bullock had formed a committee to look at how the state can adapt to the Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Power Plan, though that work stopped after a U.S. Supreme Court decision delayed implementation of the plan. Bullock has objected to the plan, which would require Montana to drastically cut its carbon dioxide emissions and could threaten parts of the Colstrip power plant, but believes in reducing emissions over time and has said Montana should work to meet the goals anyway. "Bullock has continued to abandon Montana workers and families by siding with President Obamas job-killing energy agenda. In the last year alone, our natural resource industry lost nearly 700 jobs, and thousands of Montana jobs are at risk if we dont stop this radical job-killing energy agenda in November. I feel confident Montanans will elect a Republican governor who will always defend and protect all Montana jobs. At the end of the day, Montanans cant count on Bullock to put them first." In a statement, Jim Larson, chair of the Montana Democratic Party, touted Bullock's leadership and cast Gianforte as a wealthy out-of-stater. "Bullock is doing an outstanding job leading Montana and will continue to responsibly manage our finances and bring Montanans together to get things done. "... But the stakes in this election are too high if we want to continue this economic growth and responsible financial management. New Jersey multimillionaire Greg Gianforte would turn Montana's budget surplus into a deficit, he supports job-killing discrimination laws, and would raise taxes on Montana families just to give himself and other millionaires a tax break." Running mate Mike Cooney has a long history in Montana politics, most recently as deputy director of the Montana Department of Labor and Industry. He was first elected in 1976 to the Montana House of Representatives and served through 1980. He then served three terms as secretary of state, from 1989 through 2000. Cooney was a state senator from 2003 to 2010, and was elected as Senate president in 2007. From 2001 to 2006, Cooney served as director of Montana Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies. He also served as the interim head of the Montana Historical Society. Cooney was named lieutenant governor at the end of last year after McLean quit to work as the director of American Indian and minority achievement and K-12 partnerships. Emails between Bullock and McLean showed a rocky relationship between Bullock's administration and the former lieutenant governor, who said she was frozen out of her initiatives, Bullock has said the fit wasn't right and she seemed "frustrated with the role of lieutenant governor, and that was disruptive to our work for Montana." Bullock ran for attorney general in 2000, losing in the Democratic primary to Mike McGrath, who is now chief justice of the Montana Supreme Court. Bullock was then elected attorney general in 2008 after a three-way Democratic primary. In the general election, he defeated Republican Tim Fox, who is the current attorney general and running for re-election, with with 52.6 percent of the vote. Bullock grew up in Helena and earned a law degree from Columbia University. He and his wife, Lisa, have three children: Caroline, Alexandria and Cameron. BERLIN German Chancellor Angela Merkel on Sunday called the actions of protesters who shouted abuse at a bus full of migrants repulsive and unjustifiable. Video of about 100 people trying to block migrants from entering a shelter in the eastern village of Clausnitz on Feb. 18 prompted concern about growing extremism in Germany. The number of far-right attacks on migrants has increased significantly over the past year, as more than a million people came to Germany seeking asylum. Merkel told public television ARD late Sunday that she sees a polarization in Germany society, but insisted that her decision in September to keep the countrys borders open to migrants had been right. I think were doing better than some people think, but weve got a way to go, she said. To those who have opposed her course, at time vehemently, Merkel said she was willing to listen. They arent convinced yet but I think that I can convince them if the issue is resolved, but we need a certain amount of time for this. Merkel said her government is working to solve the problems causing people to flee to Europe, but added that those coming to Germany have to abide by its laws, citing what she called the devastating incident in Cologne at New Year, when scores of women were robbed and sexually assaulted by men of mostly North African origin. Rules must be clear from the start, she said. Integration isnt just a voluntary matter. Merkels center-right party faces its first electoral test since the migrants surge on March 13, when voters elect new regional parliaments in three of Germanys 16 states. PYONGYANG, North Korea North Korea presented a detained American student before the media on Monday in Pyongyang, where he tearfully apologized for attempting to steal a political banner at the behest, he said, of a member of a church back home who wanted it as a trophy from a staff-only section of the hotel where he had been staying. North Korea announced in late January it had arrested Otto Warmbier, a 21-year-old University of Virginia undergraduate student. It said that after entering the country as a tourist he committed an anti-state crime with the tacit connivance of the U.S. government and under its manipulation. No details of what kind of charges or punishment Warmbier faces were immediately released. According to Warmbiers statement Monday, he wanted the banner with a political slogan on it as a trophy for the church member, who was the mother of a friend. In previous cases, people who have been detained in North Korea and made a public confession often recant those statements after their release. He was arrested while visiting the country with Young Pioneer Tours, an agency specializing in travel to North Korea, which is strongly discouraged by the U.S. State Department. He had been staying at the Yanggakdo International Hotel, which is located on an island in a river that runs through Pyongyang, the capital. It is common for sections of tourist hotels to be reserved for North Korean staff and off-limits to foreigners. In Washington, State Department spokesman John Kirby said that as a general practice, it was not uncommon for North Korea to detain and imprison people on false or trumped-up charges, and use detentions for propaganda purposes. But Kirby said he could not comment on Warmbiers case because of privacy considerations, nor on whether Sweden, which handles consular affairs for the U.S. in North Korea, has had access to him. In his comments, Warmbier said he was offered a used car worth $10,000 by a member of the church. He said the church member told him the slogan would be hung on its wall as a trophy. He also said he was told that if he was detained and didnt return, $200,000 would be paid to his mother in the form of a charitable donation. Warmbier identified the church as the Friendship United Methodist Church, which is in his hometown, Wyoming, Ohio. Meshach Kanyion, pastor of the church, would not confirm whether he knows Warmbier or if he is a church member. I dont have any comment at this time, he told The Associated Press. Warmbiers parents said they had not heard from their son since his arrest and were greatly relieved to finally see a picture of him. You can imagine how deeply worried we were and what a traumatic experience this has been for us, Warmbiers father, Fred Warmbier, said in a statement provided by the University of Virginia. I hope the fact that he has conveyed his sincere apology for anything that he may have done wrong will now make it possible for the (North Korean) authorities to allow him to return home, he said. The university said it had no immediate comment other than that it was in close contact with Warmbiers family. Warmbier told reporters in Pyongyang that he had also been encouraged in his act by the universitys Z Society, which he said he was trying to join. The magazine of the universitys alumni association describes the Z Society as a semi-secret ring society that was founded in 1892 and conducts philanthropy, puts on honorary dinners and grants academic awards. Warmbier said he accepted the offer of money because his family is suffering from very severe financial difficulties. I started to consider this as my only golden opportunity to earn money, he said, adding that if he ever mentioned the involvement of the church, no payments would come. North Korea regularly accuses Washington and Seoul of sending spies to overthrow its government to enable the U.S.-backed South Korean government to control the Korean Peninsula. U.S. tourism to North Korea is legal and virtually all Americans who make the journey return home without incident. Even so, the State Department has repeatedly warned against travel to the North. Visitors, especially those from America, who break the countrys sometimes murky rules risk detention, arrest and possible jail sentences. Young Pioneer describes itself on its website as providing budget tours to destinations your mother would rather you stayed away from. The agency, based in China, also has tours to Iran, Cuba, Turkmenistan, Iraq and other former Soviet countries. After Warmbiers detention, it stressed in a news release that he was the first of the 7,000 people it has taken to North Korea over the past eight years to face arrest. Despite what you may hear, North Korea is probably one of the safest places on Earth to visit, it says on its website. In the past, North Korea has held out until senior U.S. officials or statesmen came to personally bail out detainees, all the way up to former President Bill Clinton, whose visit in 2009 secured the freedom of American journalists Euna Lee and Laura Ling. Both had crossed North Koreas border from China illegally. It took a visit in November 2014 by U.S. spy chief James Clapper to bring home Matthew Miller, who had ripped up his visa when entering the country, and Korean-American missionary Kenneth Bae, who had been incarcerated since November 2012. Jeffrey Fowle, another U.S. tourist from Ohio detained for six months at about the same time as Miller, was released just before that and sent home on a U.S. government plane. He left a Bible in a local club hoping a North Korean would find it, which is considered a criminal offense in North Korea. ORANGE A driver trapped in his pickup truck was rescued Sunday evening after crashing into a power pole on Silverado Canyon Road, officials said. The impact brought down a power line on top of the vehicle, said Capt. Shane Sherwood of the Orange County Fire Authority. OCFA firefighters were able to free the man after Southern California Edison shut off the power. The crash, reported at 6:54 p.m. in unincorporated territory on the 27000 block of Silverado Canyon Road, resulted in lane closures that lasted several hours, the California Highway Patrol reported. The cause of the crash remained under investigation. SAN ANTONIO At Hillary Clintons campaign office in San Antonio, supporter and actress America Ferrera listened tearfully as a handful of young Latinos who had been brought to the U.S. as children spoke of living in constant fear of deportation. African American and Latino surrogates have blanketed the state. Bill Clinton has made frequent visits to Texas, including a recent stop kicking off the states two-week early voting period to border towns including Loredo. And the candidate has locked down nearly universal support from state and local political leaders, which in Texass more rural communities is a key advantage. After her landslide victory Saturday over Sen. Bernie Sanders in South Carolinas Democratic primary, Clinton is trying to assume a sheen of inevitability as her partys presumptive nominee. And no state is better suited to help her do that than Texas, the largest of 11 states that will hold Democratic nominating contests this week, on Super Tuesday. Here, she is looking for another sizable victory over Sanders this time, to prove her ability to win big not just among African American voters but Latinos and whites, too. With 222 delegates at stake in Texas, the state could significantly boost her overall delegate count even without the party officials who have pledged to support her as superdelegates. It would make Sanderss path to the nomination nearly nonexistent. The fact is that Texas is going to be ground zero, said Texas State Rep. Cesar Blanco, a Clinton supporter who represents El Paso in the state legislature. Shes got roots here. She did a lot of voter registration in south Texas at a young age. Latinos understand that and know that and remember that. Clinton has long been expected to do well among Texass African American voters. In South Carolina, she led Sanders among black voters by more than 70 percentage points in preliminary exit polls reported by CNN. That number was larger than her 54-point margin among black caucus-goers in Nevada last week and also larger than Barack Obamas 59-point win over Clinton with black voters in the 2008 South Carolina primary. Less certain is whether she will do well among Latinos or whites. Sanders claimed a narrow victory among Latino voters in Nevada based on entrance polling although the Clinton campaign has disputed that. Sanders has polled ahead of Clinton in states with larger white populations but in South Carolina Saturday, Clinton defeated him even among whites. Sanders continues to draw passionate support from the states more liberal enclaves, notably Austin. While his campaign claims he is still contesting the minority vote in Texas, the candidate himself has focused his time on areas where the liberal, white vote is most concentrated. On Saturday, he returned to Texas for the first time since July to rally a combined crowd of more than 17,000 in the Austin and Dallas areas. Both rallies were predominantly white, with sprinklings of younger Latinos and African Americans. Increasingly, as Sanderss path in Texas appears to be narrowing, geographically and demographically, the campaigns expectations in Texas are similarly contracting. Over the past week, the Sanders campaign has claimed that he can win five of Tuesdays 11 states and Texas is not among them. This has been our expectation across the country: We want to do as well as possible, said Sanders spokeswoman Rania Batrice. The overall approach has been that were going to do as much as we can to bring out as many people as possible. Meanwhile, Sanderss campaign outreach in Texas which once dwarfed Clintons has been eclipsed. Months ago, Sanders boasted a rare organizational head start on Clinton deploying paid staff and opening offices in the state beginning in November. Since then, the campaign has opened seven offices across the state and has more than two dozen paid staffers on the ground. It wasnt until late January that the Clinton campaign began doing the same. They were working very hard, but they were getting no support from Brooklyn because Brooklyns strategy was: we contest and win Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada and South Carolina, then we start working on other states, said Garry Mauro, who was chairman of Bill Clintons 1992 campaign in Texas and is a longtime friend and confidante of the Clintons.. It was very disheartening for some of our super volunteers to see Sanders people with organized volunteers and organizers on the ground actually holding meetings. It wasnt totally silent, but Im sure glad that period of the campaign is over, Mauro said. The Sanders campaign has launched its own efforts to reach out to Latinos, focusing on younger voters who are amenable to Sanderss message of free college tuition and countering economic inequality. Something that were seeing in Texas is something that we saw in Nevada: it was an energy that were seeing with young Latinos, said Cesar Antonio Vargas, an immigration reform activist who signed on with the Sanders campaign and has been traveling across Texas and other Super Tuesday states to recruit Latino support. They are the social media generation. They have a politicians record in a 2 minute video on Facebook. Theyre informing the community their parents and grandparents, he added. A recent Washington Post/ Univision poll showed Sanders doing well nationally with younger Hispanics, but all other groups overwhelmingly support Clinton. Theres nothing written in stone that says that Latinos wont vote for Bernie Sanders, particularly young Latinos that are in college, said Jim Henson, director of the Texas Politics Project at the University of Texas in Austin. But hes got to reach them and they have to know hes there and they have to got to the polls. Texass Hispanic voters and Democrats in general are notorious for not showing up to vote in large numbers. And younger voters in general have proven to be an unreliable constituency for Sanders in other states including South Carolina, where exit polls showed they did not turn out in elevated numbers. Hispanics always threaten to vote and never vote, said Charles Soechting, former chairman of the Texas Democratic party who has endorsed Sanders. Inside Sanderss Houston campaign office, nestled in a tree-lined neighborhood, more than a dozen volunteers dialed away, on the hunt potential voters. Im calling mostly 33 year-olds who dont answer their phones, noted Greg Hunt, 55, who had been diligently working the phones for Sanders for hours. On the other side of the room, Noe De La Garza left half a dozen messages some from an English-language script that he had hastily translated into Spanish. The policies of Bernie will do a lot more to help Latinos here, he added. As Super Tuesday approaches, he Sanders campaign has no ads airing specifically on Texas airwaves, a key voter outreach tool in a state where voters are far flung. Clinton, on the other hand, has blanketed television and radio in a dozen markets across the state focusing heavily on Latino communities, including remote border towns. The absence has also been felt by voters like Laura and Manuel Lopez both of whom looked favorably on Sanders candidacy early on, but have since settled on Clinton. I havent seen him, said Laura Lopez, 42, of San Antonio. I havent seen him coming here. I really havent heard anybody talking about him, her husband Manuel Lopez, 37, chimed in. I dont know that hes actually been to Texas. Sanders latest visit may also have been too little too late. He arrived a day after early voting in the state closed. HAMILTON, Ohio A 14-year-old boy pulled out a gun in a school cafeteria Monday and opened fire, hitting two students, and then ran from the school, threw the weapon down and was apprehended nearby with the help of a police dog, authorities said. Two other Madison Local Schools students also were injured, possibly from shrapnel or while running away. None of the injuries appeared to be life-threatening, said Butler County Sheriff Richard Jones. Jones said the 14-year-old was a student and that there was a motive to the shooting, which he did not identify. The boy was charged preliminarily with two counts of attempted murder, two counts of felonious assault, inducing panic and making terrorist threats, Jones said. Students were eating in the cafeteria when the shooting happened around 11:30 a.m., Jones said. Afterward, classmates described a chaotic scene where they werent sure what was happening at first. Some students fled outside. One student mistook the first shot for a potato chip bag being popped. Thirteen-year-old Shelby Kinnin said she heard a couple of bangs and realized she was near the shooter. I didnt really know it was gunshots until I looked over and a kid was grabbing his leg and falling over, she said. Many people ran from the scene, and the shooter went out a door, she said. She recognized him as a boy who was in a class with her last year, though she wasnt sure of his name. Her stepmother, Stephanie Kinnin, said it was unnerving to see emergency responders swarm the school. There is no feeling like that in the world, she said. The students who were shot ages 14 and 15 were taken to a hospital where they were in stable condition, investigators said. A 14-year-old boy and 14-year-old girl were also injured, though it was unclear how, Jones said. A new report written by a former Pentagon official who helped establish United States policy on autonomous weapons argues that such weapons could be uncontrollable in real-world environments where they are subject to design failure as well as hacking, spoofing and manipulation by adversaries. In recent years, low-cost sensors and new artificial intelligence technologies have made it increasingly practical to design weapons systems that make killing decisions without human intervention. The specter of so-called killer robots has touched off an international protest movement and a debate within the United Nations about limiting the development and deployment of such systems. The new report was written by Paul Scharre, who directs a program on the future of warfare at the Center for a New American Security, a policy research group in Washington, D.C. From 2008 to 2013, Scharre worked in the office of the Secretary of Defense, where he helped establish U.S. policy on unmanned and autonomous weapons. He was one of the authors of a 2013 Defense Department directive that set military policy on the use of such systems. In the report, titled Autonomous Weapons and Operational Risk, set to be published on Monday, Scharre warns about a range of real-world risks associated with weapons systems that are completely autonomous. The report contrasts these completely automated systems, which have the ability to target and kill without human intervention, to weapons that keep humans in the loop in the process of selecting and engaging targets. Scharre, who served as an Army Ranger in Iraq and Afghanistan, focuses on the potential types of failures that might occur in completely automated systems, as opposed to the way such weapons are intended to work. To underscore the military consequences of technological failures, the report enumerates a history of the types of failures that have occurred in military and commercial systems that are highly automated. Anyone who has ever been frustrated with an automated telephone call support helpline, an alarm clock mistakenly set to p.m. instead of a.m., or any of the countless frustrations that come with interacting with computers, has experienced the problem of brittleness that plagues automated systems, Scharre writes. His underlying point is that autonomous weapons systems will inevitably lack the flexibility that humans have to adapt to novel circumstances and that as a result killing machines will make mistakes that humans would presumably avoid. Completely autonomous weapons are beginning to appear in military arsenals. For example, South Korea has deployed an automated sentry gun along the demilitarized zone with North Korea, and Israel operates a drone aircraft that will attack enemy radar systems when they are detected. The U.S. military does not have advanced autonomous weapons in its arsenal. However, this year the Defense Department requested almost $1 billion to manufacture Lockheed Martins Long Range Anti-Ship Missile, which is described as a semiautonomous weapon by the definitions established by the Pentagons 2013 memorandum. The missile is controversial because, although a human operator will initially select a target, it is designed to fly for several hundred miles while out of contact with the controller and then automatically identify and attack an enemy ship in an opposing fleet. The Center for a New American Security report focuses on a range of unexpected behavior in highly computerized systems like system failures and bugs, as well as unanticipated interactions with the environment. On their first deployment to the Pacific, eight F-22 fighter jets experienced a Y2K-like total computer failure when crossing the international date line, the report states. All onboard computer systems shut down, and the result was nearly a catastrophic loss of the aircraft. While the existence of the international date line could clearly be anticipated, the interaction of the dateline with the software was not identified in testing. The lack of transparency in artificial intelligence technologies that are associated with most recent advances in machine vision and speech recognition systems is also cited as a source of potential catastrophic failures. As an alternative to completely autonomous weapons, the report advocates what it describes as Centaur Warfighting. The term centaur has recently come to describe systems that tightly integrate humans and computers. However, in a telephone interview Scharre acknowledged that simply having a human push the buttons in a weapons system is not enough. Having a person in the loop is not enough, he said. They cant be just a cog in the loop. The human has to be actively engaged. The annual Musink Tattoo Convention and Music Festival really is for everybody. Since its debut in 2008 at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa, the event has brought in hundreds of world-renowned tattoo artists and paired the convention with a music festival, which has included performances by big name punk, rock, metal, rockabilly and hip hop artists. In 2014, promoters brought in Blink-182 drummer and DJ Travis Barker to curate the festival, which he will do once again as Musink returns to O.C. this Friday-Sunday. For a handful of years, Orange County Register photographer Leonard Oritz and I have photographed and interviewed hundreds of Musink attendees about their body art. People of all different shapes, sizes, races, ages and genders have posed for our on-site photographs and shared all kinds of stories. Click the photo above to see 100 of the best tattoo portraits from Musink through the years. We met Katsuta and Asumi Yaguachi, two very lively and colorful characters, who traveled all the way from their hometown of Tokyo, Japan, to attend and get tattooed at Musink in 2012. Beronica Schuster and Armando Guerra were a pair of the nicest people we met who both had extensive black and grey facial tattoos. Schuster was a former USMC marksmanship instructor who had the names of family members tattooed on her jawbone, just below and just above her eyes. Guerra laughed when we asked him what people usually thought of his face tattoos and said: They think Im a criminal, but Im a teddy bear. Destinee Turve of Fullerton showed off her massive collection of Universal Monster portraits done by famous artist Nikko Hurtado of the San Fernando Valley. She said she had spent more money than shed like to divulge on completing her monster-themed arm sleeve. Luis Gomez, a 60-year-old from Azuza, proudly displayed tattoos that covered his entire torso and arms, which were done by his son Louie Gomez of Under the Gun Tattoo in Los Angeles. Jessika Gonzales of Palm Springs decided to show her love for her partner Billy Nova by having a black and grey portrait of her girlfriend tattooed onto the side of her shaved head. In 2011, Carrie Pete of Riverside, who at the time was 52 years old, was all too proud to show off her collection of tattoos inspired by her favorite music artists. She had a portrait of Lenny Kravitz, one of Black Label Society frontman Zakk Wylde and a portrait of No Doubts Gwen Stefani, which Stefani saw, signed and Pete immediately got that signature tattooed on as well. James Medina of Orange was beaming with Orange County pride, so much so that he whipped off his tank top and showed us that he had the County of Orange emblem colorfully and boldly tattooed across his abdomen. Then there was Crystal Star of Long Beach, who turned around to show off a black-and-grey portrait of a friend. I gasped when I saw it because I immediately recognized that man as Andrew Martinez, drummer for psychobilly band the Nekromatnix and a good friend of mine as well, who had died in a car accident in 2009. These are the people I remember. Not just because they had crazy tattoos, but because they had some really interesting stories. Contact the writer: 714-796-3570 or kfadroski@ocregister.com Looking for something different from a theme park? Lets face it most theme park attractions follow the same model. You wait in line; then you sit and watch something happen. That something can be wonderful from pirates singing in a burning city to feeling your stomach lurch into your throat as you drop 200 feet on a whacked-out elevator. But youre still just sitting, as the action happens around you. The ride runs the same whether your rear end is parked in that seat or not. In recent years, perhaps encouraged by the growing popularity of video games, theme parks began developing attractions that encourage more active participation. That includes rides like Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters and Voyage to the Iron Reef, where you play as you sit blasting baddies and racking up points in competition with your seatmates. But youre still basically sitting and riding. Universal Studios Hollywoods new Wizarding World of Harry Potter takes a step away from that model with its immersive recreation of the High Street from the village of Hogsmeade in the Harry Potter books and films. Sure, the new land, which is in technical rehearsals now leading up to its April 7 official opening, includes two traditional rides. The first is Flight of the Hippogriff, the parks first outdoor roller coaster; a kid-friendly coaster similar to Gadgets Go Coaster at Disneyland. The second is Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey a wild indoor ride that blends 3D imagery with animatronics. But they are still both rides, with waiting, and sitting. Its the rest of the land that helps establish a new model for what a theme park attraction can be. Throughout the land, visitors can cast spells with interactive wands that trigger animation effects in various store windows. You can stand in front of Honeydukes candy store, wave your wand in the proper pattern and say revelio, then a giant Chocolate Frog box in the window will open to reveal a croaking chocolate frog within. There are about a dozen such windows in the land, each featuring its own unique effect. It sounds simple, but casting spells is surprisingly addictive, even for grown-up Harry Potter fans. The interactive wands are big business for Universal the wands that can cast spells cost $47.95 apiece, about eight bucks more than Universals first-generation souvenir wands that cant be used to cast any spells other than in your imagination. But many fans are happy to spend the money for one after seeing them in action. With a spell-casting wand in hand, you are no longer a viewer in the Wizarding World you are a participant. You are no longer sitting and watching a theme park attraction; you have become a witch or wizard in Harry Potters world, with the magical power to make things happen. Its active play. As Disney cracks down on wearing costumes in its parks, Universals Wizarding World encourages cosplay, selling a wide variety of robes, sweaters and other wizard wear that fans eagerly buy and wear as they cast spells, drink Butterbeer and pretend that they went to Hogwarts, too. Theres a high school directly across the street from the original Wizarding World in Orlando, Florida, and an industry friend of mine once told a great story about seeing a group of students from that school, sitting around a table in the Three Broomsticks one afternoon. They were all dressed in house robes, and their textbooks were spread across the table. They were cosplaying their homework. One of the students explained the group would walk over after school several times a week, put on their robes, ride Forbidden Journey, then come over to the restaurant, order Butterbeers and do their homework just as if they were Hogwarts students. When a theme park land inspires kids to see doing their homework as playtime, thats just magical. Robert Niles is the founder and editor of ThemeParkInsider.com. Follow him on Twitter @ThemePark. WASHINGTON Justice Clarence Thomas broke 10 years of silence and provoked audible gasps at the Supreme Court on Monday when he posed questions from the bench during an oral argument. In a case about a federal law that bans people convicted of domestic violence from owning guns, Thomas wanted to know of any other case where breaking a law suspends constitutional rights. And it wasnt just one question; it was a back-and-forth lasting a few minutes that stunned lawyers, reporters and others in the courtroom. It was only the second week the court has heard arguments since the death of Justice Antonin Scalia, Thomas friend and fellow conservative. Thomas for seven years sat next to Scalia, who was famous for aggressive and sometimes combative questions from the bench. Scalias chair is now draped in black in a tribute to his death on Feb. 13. Thomas questions Monday came in case in which the court is considering placing new limits on the reach of the 1996 law. The court is considering an appeal from two Maine men who say their guilty pleas for hitting their partners should not disqualify them from gun ownership. With about 10 minutes left in the hourlong session, Justice Department lawyer Ilana Eisenstein was about to sit down after asking the justices if there were no further questions. Thomas then caught her by surprise, asking whether a misdemeanor conviction of any other law suspends a constitutional right. The sound of Thomas gravelly voice filling the courtroom prompted a few gasps among other lawyers attending the argument. None of the other justices visibly reacted to his remarks. Thomass unusual silence has become a curiosity over the years. Thomas has previously said he relies on the written briefs and doesnt need to ask questions of the lawyers appearing in court. Thomas last asked a question in court on Feb. 22, 2006. He has come under criticism for his silence from some who say he is neglecting his duties as a justice. Every other justice regularly poses questions from the bench. The 10-year milestone of his courtroom silence came just days after Scalias death. Thomas was one of only two people invited by Scalias family to read from Scripture during the funeral Mass on Feb. 20. Few reporters showed up Monday for arguments in the first case, in which the justices considered appeals from two Maine men who say their guilty pleas for hitting their partners should not disqualify them from gun ownership. The men say the law should only cover intentional acts of abuse and not those committed in the heat of an argument. During the first 50 minutes of the argument, most of the justices appeared to favor the governments position that even reckless acts of domestic assault fall under the law. Thomas did not pose questions to Virginia Villa, the lawyer arguing on behalf of the two men. But Thomas peppered Eisenstein with several questions about Second Amendment gun rights, a topic no other justice had asked about. He noted that the law allows someone convicted of a misdemeanor assault charge to get a lifetime ban on possessing a gun which at least as of now results in suspension of a constitutional right. The suspension is not directly related to the use of a weapon? Thomas asked. Eisenstein said he was correct, but that Congress passed the law to prevent people accused of domestic violence from later using weapons against a family member. She noted that violating other laws can in some cases limit a persons free speech rights. Thomas then asked how long the suspension of the right to own a firearm lasts. Eisenstein said it was indefinite. In one of the cases, Stephen Voisine pleaded guilty in 2003 to simple assault after slapping his girlfriend in the face while he was intoxicated. In 2009, an anonymous caller reported that Voisine had shot a bald eagle with a rifle. He was then convicted under the gun law. The other case involves William Armstrong III, who pleaded guilty to simple assault in 2002 after pushing his wife during an argument and leaving a red mark. Eight years later, police searching Armstrongs home discovered six firearms and ammunition. Former CIA director Michael Hayden believes there is a legitimate possibility that the U.S. military would refuse to follow orders given by Donald Trump if the Republican front-runner becomes president and decides to make good on certain campaign pledges. Hayden, who also headed the National Security Agency from 1999 to 2005, made the provocative statement on Friday during an appearance on HBOs Real Time with Bill Maher. Trump, fresh off a string of primary victories, has yet to secure his partys nomination, but Hayden said the candidates rhetoric already raises troubling questions. I would be incredibly concerned if a President Trump governed in a way that was consistent with the language that candidate Trump expressed during the campaign, Hayden said during the interview with Maher. Earlier this month, Trump told a South Carolina retirement community that he supports waterboarding and similar interrogation techniques because torture works when it comes to extracting vital information from terrorists. Deeming waterboarding torture, President Barack Obamas administration discontinued its use during his first term in office. Proponents of the controversial practice, as The Washington Posts Jenna Johnson noted, avoid labeling it as torture, which would violate various international laws and treaties. Trump, meanwhile, has not only pledged to reinstate waterboarding, but also introduce other methods of interrogation that are so much worse and much stronger. Dont tell me it doesnt work torture works, Trump told the Sun City retirement community. Okay, folks? Torture you know, half these guys (say): Torture doesnt work. Believe me, it works. Okay? Trump has also said on multiple occasions that the United States should kill the family members of terrorists. That will make people think. Because they do not care very much about their lives, but they do care, believe it or not, about their familys lives, Trump said during a debate of Republican presidential candidates in December. Politifact has pointed out that targeting terrorists family members is barred by the Geneva Conventions. During his appearance on Real Time, Hayden cited Trumps pledge to kill family members as being among his most troubling campaign statements. That never even occurred to you, right? Maher asked. God, no! Hayden replied. Let me give you a punchline: If he were to order that once in government, the American armed forces would refuse to act. Thats quite a statement, sir, Maher said. You are required not to follow an unlawful order, Hayden added. That would be in violation of all the international laws of armed conflict. Youve given us a great reason not to support Trump. There would be a coup in this country, Maher joked. Hayden said he didnt mean to imply that the military would provoke a coup. HOUSTON Donald Trumps angry army is positioned to march across 11 states Tuesday with enough firepower to anoint him the inevitable Republican nominee by days end, while Marco Rubio and Ted Cruz are just aiming to survive the onslaught. The biggest day of primary and caucus voting of 2016, stretching from New England to Alaska, is a make-or-break day for Trumps rivals. Its also a day that threatens to tear apart the Republican Party. The challengers latest weapon involves tax returns. Trump Sunday again refused to release his, and, on Fox News Sunday, he would not reveal his gross income, tax rate or charitable contributions. Im being singled out, Trump said. Rubio, a senator from Florida, and Cruz, a senator from Texas, released partial returns Saturday for the past few years. Cruz charged on NBCs Meet the Press that Trumps returns would contain bombshells. Cruz once saw Super Tuesday as his big day, when the Christian right voters he so feverishly courts would give him victories across the South. Instead, hes spending the last hours fighting to avoid an embarrassing setback in his home state. Rubio is now the clear Republican mainstream alternative, and is hoping Cruz is staggered enough Tuesday that the race becomes a one-on-one battle with Trump. Rubios spent the past week provoking Trump on his own playing field, unleashing insults (hes a clown) and accusations (exploiting working Americans for 40 years) with Trump-style fury. Hes also warning that a Trump win could mean doom for the Republican Party. All this sets a gilded stage for Trump, who leads in polls in eight of the 11 states. By the time voting ends, Republicans will have awarded 595 convention delegates, or nearly half the 1,237 a candidate needs for nomination. A big Trump night means a big, maybe insurmountable, lead for him. There is no doubt that, if Donald steamrolls through Super Tuesday, wins everywhere with big margins, that he may well be unstoppable, Cruz said on CBSs Face the Nation Sunday. I dont think that will happen. Time is running out for Trumps challengers. Between Tuesday and March 15, delegates will be awarded in primaries and caucuses in 13 more states, and Puerto Rico, the District of Columbia and the Northern Mariana Islands. Tuesdays biggest prizes are Texas with 155 delegates and Georgias 76. Should Cruz falter in Texas, which polls say is unlikely, hes probably finished as a candidate, though a victory be seen only as little more than something expected. Trump has made a strong push in Texas, appearing Friday with Gov. Chris Christie of New Jersey as his newest supporter. Georgia once had the look of a strong Cruz state, since nearly two-thirds of its Republican voters regard themselves as evangelicals. Christian right favorite Mike Huckabee won Georgia eight years ago. Instead, polls have shown Trump with a consistent lead. Rubio is aiming to win delegates in suburban areas; Cruz is targeting smaller, more conservative communities. Trump is ahead in other states with big Christian right electorates Oklahoma and Alabama. The Southern states best positioned to break Trumps grip are Tennessee and Virginia. Gov. Bill Haslam and Sen. Lamar Alexander of Tennessee back Rubio. In Virginia, center-right Republicans of the Washington suburbs have shown little taste for Trump, and Rubio planned to spend most of Sunday campaigning in the state. But Trump has courted both states religious communities; in Virginia, evangelical leaders Pat Robertson and Jerry Falwell Jr. have endorsed him. Massachusetts, Vermont, Alaska and Massachusetts also vote Tuesday, and Rubio hopes to win at least one. So does Gov. John Kasich of Ohio. Kasich is betting that his lets-get-along, pragmatic style will help him in Michigans March 8 primary and a week later in Ohio, Illinois, Florida, Missouri and North Carolina. But getting shut out this week could drain his prospects for momentum. A German Shepherd recently won the hearts millions with a stunning display of love and loyalty reminiscent of the legendary Hachiko. According to eye-witnesses in his Houston neighborhood, the dog spent weeks at the front gate of his apartment complex patiently waiting for his owner, not knowing he had been killed and would never return. 54-year-old Hatem Abuharbid was killed on February 7, when the convenience store where he worked was robbed. He was shot in the thigh by the two robbers, and the bullet pierced through an artery in his leg. He died later at the hospital due to heavy bleeding. Meanwhile, his German Shepherd back home kept waiting for Abuharbid to come back, as he did every evening. Of course hes confused because he doesnt know whats going on, said Cassandra Eubanks, a neighbor. He hadnt seen his owner in two weeks. You could just tell that he was a lost dog. He would follow the cars and when he would realise that it was not his owners car, he would just stand there and look helpless. Photo: video caption The residents of the apartment complex took pity on the dog and left food and water for him, but he wouldnt go near anyone. He just wouldnt budge from the gate, so the residents put up pleas for help on social media. Maranda Perez, who lives nearby, read these messages and arrived at the scene with her own dog, spending an entire hour trying to gain the German Shepherds trust. He apparently ran up three flights of stairs before she could get close enough to put a leash on him. It just broke my heart to hear that poor animal lost his owner, his best friend, she said. He was still very shaken up whenever I touched him. Photo: video caption Perez has now taken the dog in for a week, after which Abuharbids brother will arrive to adopt him. This is just one of the many examples of incredible canine loyalty weve featured on Oddity Central. In 2012, we wrote about Capitan, a faithful dog who refused to leave his masters grave six years after he had died, and in 2014 we brought you the story of Huachito, Bolivias most loyal dog, who still waited for his owner five years after his death. Last year, we had Shavi, a stray who walked 300 kilometers to return to the owner who had saved her from certain death. via ABC News There is a mysterious river flowing deep through the Amazon rainforest in Mayantuyacu, Peru, that can literally boil small animals almost instantly. While water temperatures along the 6.4-km-long river range between 50 and 90 degrees Celsius, in some parts almost reaching the boiling point of 100 degrees. Thats hot enough to cause third-degree burns in a matter of seconds. The local Ashaninka people have known about the mysterious Boiling River for centuries, referring to it as Shanay-timpishka, which translates to boiled with the heat of the sun. Ancient legend has it that the hot water is unleashed by a giant serpent named Yacumama (mothers of the waters) and a large boulder shaped like a serpents head lies at the rivers headwaters, as a testimony to the primitive tales veridity. For the rest of the world, however, this natural oddity was just that a legend. Apart from a few references dating back to the 1930s there was no scientific documentation of the boiling river and most geologists simply dismissed its existence based on the fact that it would take huge amounts of geothermal heat to boil entire sections of a river, which would be impossible because the Amazon basin is located 400 miles away from the nearest active volcano. Except for a few tourists who visit Mayantuyacu each year to experience the traditional healing methods practiced by the Ashaninka people, the civilized world was oblivious to the existence of a real boiling river. Photo: Sofia Ruzo/The Boiling River/Facebook The rivers existence was officially confirmed in 2011, when geothermal scientist Andres Ruzo decided to investigate the matter himself after hearing a bunch of stories and legends that made him curious enough to set out in search of the mystical body of water. His grandfather had told him that the Shanay-timpishka was discovered by Spanish conquistadors hundreds of years ago, when they traveled deep into the rainforest in search of gold. Those who managed to return spoke of horrible things in the forest like man-eating snakes, disease, starvation, and a strange boiling river. 20 years after hed heard this story, Ruzo found someone who claimed to have seen the river firsthand his own aunt. During a family dinner, he just brought up the subject and all the skepticism around it, when his aunt says but no, Andres, Ive been there, Ive swum in that river. In 2011, guided by his aunt, the young scientist eventually found the river himself, and confirmed that its waters do indeed reach boiling temperatures. Photo: Devlin Gandy/The Boiling River/Facebook Ruzo went on to write a book on the unique river called The Boiling River: Adventure and Discovery in the Amazon. It feels like Im in a sauna inside a toaster oven, he wrote in the book. Dipping my hand into the river would give me third-degree burns in less than half a second. Falling in could easily kill me. He also gives a detailed account of the animals that have accidentally fallen in. The first thing to go are the eyes, he said. Eyes, apparently, cook very quickly. They turn this milky-white color. The stream is carrying them. Theyre trying to swim out, but their meat is cooking on the bone because its so hot. So theyre losing power, losing power, until finally they get to a point where hot water goes into their mouths and they cook from the inside out. In fact, the water is so hot that the locals regularly use it to brew tea. They also believe that its vapors make the medicine in the leaves of the nearby Came Ranaco tree more potent. But so far, no one has been able to crack the mystery of the boiling water. Ruzo has only managed to come up with a theory he believes that hot water might be pouring in from fault zones, or cracks in the earth, heating up various sections of the river. Photo: The Boiling River/Facebook As we have blood running through our veins and arteries, so too, the Earth has hot water running through its cracks and faults, he said during a TED Talk event in 2014. Where these arteries come to the surface, these earth arteries, well get geothermal manifestations: fumaroles, hot springs, and in our case, the boiling river. Ruzo is also interested in finding out about the extremophile organisms that have managed to survive in the scalding water, which might help scientists understand how life originated on planet Earth. At a time when everything seems mapped, measured, and understood, this river challenges what we think we know, he added. It has forced me to question the line between known and unknown, ancient and modern, scientific and spiritual. It is a reminder that there are still great wonders to be discovered. What was amazing is that the locals had always known about this place, and that I was by no means the first outsider to see it. It was just a part of their everyday life. They drink its water, they take in its vapor. They cook with it, clean with it, even make their medicines with it. Ruzos immediate goal is to have the Boiling River declared a Peruvian national monument, and limit the surrounding forest for exclusive ecological use. He believes that the natural wonder is under increasing threat from illegal loggers, and hopes that his book will bring attention to this. Its not going to be around unless we do something about it, he said. And for those interested in paying the Boiling River a visit, the project website warns that these trips are certainly not easy. Prepare for very hot (both from the sun and the river) and humid conditions, lots of hiking, bug bites, no air conditioning, no internet or mobile reception, as well as being about an hour away from the nearest clinic, and at least three hours from the nearest hospital, it says. Your personal safety is entirely your own responsibility and when you enter this jungle you do so at your own risk. There are no boardwalks, no ropes, and no handrails. The Boiling River area remains (for the most part), wild and untamed and we hope to keep it this way. Sources: The Boiling River Project, National Geographic, The Telegraph Loading... OilVoice will be with you shortly... As my car seat safety specialist friend climbed in the back of my minivan, pushing her body weight on the seat with my 2-month-old baby sitting in it, pulling hard on the seat belt and finding some magical slack I didnt know was there, I heard her whisper, Oh baby! Ive been so worried about you! Insert that mom shame thing we like to do to ourselves as parents. Apparently, even though this was my third child and 100th car seat, I had been doing it wrong. Now that we are five weeks from Baby Love, Omahas Only Baby Fair, I thought Id share some of the things that, as a veteran mama, I did (or should have done) as my due dates approached. So, five weeks before babes guess date, buy a car seat and install it in your car. And for the love of all that is holy, have a trained professional check that its in there correctly! Here are some of the things I was doing wrong: 1. The coat I had her in, I found out, would compress upon collision (of a mere 30 miles per hour!) and her little shoulders, designed to work their way out of a uterus, could slip right between the shoulder straps. 2. The liner in the seat that EVERYONE uses to keep baby warm in Nebraska winter would not only compress and create the same hazard as a bulky coat, but could void all the car seat's safety features. If something were to happen to a baby while in a car seat with a liner that didn't come with the seat, the car seat company wouldn't be liable. Deep in the directions in your car seat manual, it clearly states that adding ANYTHING that didnt come with the seat makes all safety features of said car seat null and void, should injury occur. On April 3, our title sponsor, Childrens Physicians, will not only teach you how to put baby in her seat and show some safe alternatives for warmth and comfort that are approved by the car seat companies, but will also show real life demos of HOW to get that seat into your car safely by doing actual installs of a convertible, booster and infant carrier in two different cars. On that day, my friend continued to rattle off about eight other things I was doing wrong with the installation AND how I had baby in her seat. It made me feel like a 70s mom who tossed her baby forward-facing in the front seat while I smoked a cigarette with the window cracked! But hey, now that I know, my kiddos are locked in tight, and the only danger faced in my minivan is the fermented chicken nuggets stuck to the floor! *** Kristi Wilson is a married mom of five kids Jack, 18, Riley 12, Caitlin, 11, Grady, 6, and Finley, 2. Wilson is a retired doula and childbirth educator, and is now a work-from-home mom. She began "Baby Love, Omaha's Only Baby Fair," in 2011 as a way to help educate and encourage all new families through their parenthood journey. The recent and unexpected death of U.S. Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia sent shockwaves across our nation. I was floored when I heard the news. Although I had only met Justice Antonin Scalia once, his legacy will have a lasting impact on me. Scalias longtime best buddy, liberal Justice Ruth Bader Ginsberg paid tribute to him perfectly: He was a jurist of captivating brilliance and wit. Scalia was a steadfast supporter of the Constitution who made principled decisions based upon what is in the text rather than what he wished was written. It is unfortunate that partisanship took over the conversation before the Justice was even laid to rest. The partisan bickering and demands to ignore the Constitution that unfolded after Scalias death is an affront to his legacy. Scalia dedicated his life to serving the Constitution. It is time for the Senate to honor that service and carry out their constitutionally mandated duty to advise and consent. To be clear: the Constitution reigns supreme. The president is not a king and he cannot rule this nation based on whatever whim or fancy that pleases him. It is also a well-known fact that it takes two to tango. My colleagues in the Senate have an obligation to provide advice to the president on nominees. Unlike the President and his followers, Republicans in Congress and the majority of Americans believe the Second Amendment guarantees the rights of all law-abiding Americans to bear arms. We believe executive amnesty, the Clean Power Plan and Waters of the U.S. are gross oversteps of executive authority. And we believe forcing the military to transfer prisoners and close Guantanamo Bay Prison is downright criminal. The reality is that with such a stark difference between the executive and legislative branches, I believe the Senate should fully embrace its constitutional role and advise the president on the type of nominee that should fill Scalias seat. Rather than burying their heads in the sand, I would like to see the Senate put forth legitimate standards for a qualified and capable nominee. There is no mandate for the Senate to confirm whomever the president nominates, but they should be proactive and provide sound advice to the president as to whom they would consider. Any nominee should meet the following requirements: Possess unconditional respect for the Constitution and its original intent, knowing decisions must be based upon what is written in the text Belief that the Second Amendment guarantees all law-abiding citizens the right to bear arms and that the government may not infringe on that right Belief in the separation and balance of power between the executive, legislative and judicial branches, and that no one branch or person is above this Belief that the president cannot unilaterally create laws or force agencies to ignore laws President Obama has a history of writing his own rules and ignoring the laws he doesnt like. This is clearly beyond his constitutional authority, and I have voted every chance possible to stop him in his tracks. Montana Attorney General Tim Fox has brought cases forward at every opportunity to stop Obamas Clean Power Plan, WOTUS, and executive amnesty. With this administrations onerous rules looming in the courts, the severity of the nomination before us cant be overstated. News recently broke that Obama was floating Nevada Republican Gov. Sandoval as a potential successor. Sandoval withdrew his name because he knew it was nothing more than political gamesmanship to try and cast Republicans as obstructionist. If the president were serious about the governor, he would put his money where his mouth is and actually nominate him rather than using his status as a Republican to browbeat the U.S. Senate. At the same time, I believe the Senate has an equal constitutional duty to advise the president on the characteristics and standards that would define a nominee that would pass that body. Montanans are tired of this president, with good reason. Whether it is his willingness to trample on his constitutional limitations or his incessant knack for politicizing every possible issue that comes across his desk, we have had enough. But my colleagues in the Senate have a unique opportunity before them. To the Senate I say: Fully embrace your job. Fully embrace the Constitution and proactively define the criteria for who should fill Justice Scalias shoes. They are big shoes to fill, but America did not give us the congressional majority to do small things. DALLAS (AP) If you fly on American Eagle, Delta Connection or United Express, there is a good chance you have been on a plane operated by Republic Airways, which just filed for bankruptcy protection. The three leading U.S. airlines say, however, that the bankruptcy of a key supplier will not disrupt service for passengers. Republic Airways Holdings Inc., whose airline subsidiaries operate more than 1,000 flights a day, filed for Chapter 11 protection from creditors Thursday. But it said it would continue flying as usual. Shares of Republic tumbled $2.52, or 73 percent, to close at 92 cents on Friday. Republic is one of several carriers that has contracts with American, Delta and United to operate regional flights using smaller planes. Passengers buy tickets from the big airlines, which pay regional carriers to operate flights with smaller planes typically 50 to 100 seats. In the last dozen years, airline passengers have grown accustomed to flying on carriers that are operating under bankruptcy protection. American, Delta and United all went through bankruptcy. American Airlines spokesman Casey Norton said Friday that his airline did not expect Republics bankruptcy to affect American Eagle operations. He said American will work with them as things develop to make sure we take care of our customers. Delta spokesman Michael Thomas said Delta Connection would operate as usual. Delta has been phasing out use of Republics 50-seat planes but will continue to use larger Republic jets, he said. United spokesman Charles Hobart said likewise that his airline expected the bankruptcy to have no effect on the United Express schedule. Republic accounts for 3 percent of flying by American and American Eagle, slightly more than 10 percent of Uniteds regional fleet, and is one of four regional carriers used by Delta, according to airline representatives and regulatory filings. Indianapolis-based Republic has been profitable it earned $13.6 million in the first nine months of 2015 but far less so than the major airlines, which have been earning record profits thanks to cheaper fuel and growing passenger traffic. Republics profit is also down sharply from 2014, and revenue has dipped as it grounded planes for lack of pilots. It failed in efforts to renegotiate aircraft deals. American, Delta and United used bankruptcy to slash costs by renegotiating aircraft leases and labor contracts. Republic, which has 6,000 employees at Republic Airlines and Shuttle America, said it would not seek to throw out labor contracts a deal last year with Teamsters pilots was hard-fought. It could use bankruptcy to cut other costs, however. Cowen and Co. analyst Cai von Rumohr said Republic is likely to cancel an order for 40 of Bombardiers C Series jets. Republic has lost interest since selling Frontier Airlines, which placed the initial order. Copyright 2016 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Dow Chemical says it will pay $835 million to settle a long-standing class-action lawsuit, after the death of Justice Antonin Scalia decreased its chances of prevailing at the U.S. Supreme Court. The announcement Friday was an early indication of how corporations are shifting their legal strategy after the loss of the courts 5-4 conservative majority. I think most corporations facing class actions regarded Justice Scalia as a friend, said Robert Peck, president of the Center for Constitutional Litigation in Washington. He has been a thoroughly consistent vote on their side of the equation. Dow was found liable in 2013 by a Kansas jury of allegedly conspiring to fix prices for polyurethane, an industrial chemical used in everything from packaging to car interiors. The judgment dealt with alleged actions by Dow and several other companies between 2000 and 2003. Dow had petitioned the Supreme Court to reconsider the judgment. But the company said the courts current lineup has increased the likelihood for unfavorable outcomes for business involved in class-action suits. After Scalias death earlier this month, the Supreme Court is now split 4-4 between justices considered part of the conservative bloc and those considered liberal. Split decisions revert to the lower courts opinion, in this case the federal court in Kansas, which ruled against Dow. Among many other business-friendly decisions, Scalia wrote the majority opinion in a 2011 decision in favor of Walmart, throwing out a sex discrimination lawsuit brought by about 1.5 million female employees. Dow, a conglomerate of industrial and agricultural chemical businesses, said the settlement would benefit shareholders. A couple of weeks ago, some economists from Goldman Sachs came out with a rosy pronouncement: Millions of new jobs and plenty of good ones, read the headline on a note to investors. High-wage employment appeared to pick up from 2013 to the present, a change from the early years of the economic recovery, which generated a disproportionate number of low-wage jobs. And you dont have to just take it from an investment bank. The Labor Department has run its own numbers, and it saw similar growth back in October, rendered in absolute numbers rather than growth rates (which Labors Chief Economist Heidi Shierholz says held through the end of 2015 in an analysis the department completed last week). Shierholz says the loss of low-wage jobs is likely a result of workers in those categories having their wages bumped up above $10 an hour, as the huge growth in low-wage sectors from 2009-13 led to competition for people in restaurants and retail, or finding better jobs. That renewed growth in high-wage jobs, which started to show up in 2014, is typical of recoveries from recessions: Low-wage retail and restaurant jobs come back first, as consumers start to buy small-ticket items and go out to eat again. Later on, the profitability trickles up, leading firms to make more expensive hires. Overall, the trend could be responsible for the small uptick in wages thats become evident in recent months, as well. So, does that mean the U.S. job market has made a full recovery? Are we basically out of the woods? Not so fast, economists say. First of all, the economy is digging out of a big hole. In the period between 1999 and 2007, the share of low-wage occupations increased a lot, while middle- and high-wage occupations were basically flat. Over the next five years, there was large growth in both low- and high-wage occupations, while middle-wage occupations lost ground. The last two years havent really fixed that: Overall between 2007 and 2015, low-wage occupations grew as a share of the labor market by 0.6 percent, middle-wage occupations shrank by 4 percent, and high-wage occupations grew by 0.3 percent. And people are still mostly making less money than they were before the recession: Median wages for low- and middle-earning occupations sank 1.5 and 1.8 percent, respectively, according to a breakdown by the Economic Policy Institutes Dave Cooper. We dont think theres evidence of any major shifts in the composition of jobs in recent years thats different from the longer-term trends, Cooper wrote in an email. And consequently, changes in the composition of the workforce should not be used to explain the broader wage trends theres been poor wage growth across the board due to overall weakness in the labor market. The other problem: Theres still a large part of the labor force thats been left out of the healthy growth in recent years, says MITs David Autor, who has done much to establish how middle-wage jobs in fields like manufacturing have disappeared and not been replaced. Our main labor market challenge is not a lack of high-wage jobs; its rather the weak or non-existent wage growth in non-college jobs, Autor wrote in an email. Less than one-third of American workers ages 25-64 have a four-year college degree or higher. After three decades of high and generally rising returns to college education, the employment and earnings opportunities of the other two-thirds of our workforce (i.e., the non-college workers) is my main concern at present. Think coal miners left unemployed as production declines, or the 2,100 workers at the Carrier plant in Indiana whose jobs are moving to Mexico, or the millions more whove been laid off as automation rendered them unnecessary. Going forward, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that the service sector will capture 94.6 percent of the new jobs added through 2024. The bulk of those, in positions like home health aides and medical assistants, make below $35,540 a year. All of which is to say that, while a recovery can look good on paper, further down on the ground, it may still be leaving some people out. Warren Buffett trailed the stock market last year for the seventh time in 20 years, but he said Saturday that his companys advantages will keep it in the forefront of American corporations. Thats especially true of Berkshire Hathaway Inc.s flexible, two-sided growth formula, Buffett wrote in his annual letter to his shareholders. One side is Berkshires ability to buy up large businesses his latest, Precision Castparts Corp., joined Berkshire just a month ago and smaller companies, such as Duracell, one of 29 such small purchases in 2015. The other is to own parts of other companies, like Wells Fargo and Phillips 66, by buying shares of stock and watching them pay dividends and grow. Both streams of profit are fed by cash from Berkshires operating businesses, including insurance companies that invest the premiums they take in while waiting for claims to arrive. The widely read letter, posted on Berkshires website, included views on the threat of nuclear attacks, climate change and Americas future from Buffett, chairman and chief executive of the Omaha-based conglomerate. Russ Kaplan, head of Russ Kaplan Investments, with about $15 million under management, contended that Buffetts report glossed over too much, like about the stock was down 12.5 percent in 2015. (The broader market lost about 2 percent.) Kaplan also said he would like to have read specifics about the dumb purchases Buffett acknowledged in the letter. Despite the stock price trailing the stock market in 2015, Berkshire recorded a 6.4 percent gain in its book value, compared with a 1.4 percent gain by the Standard & Poors index of 500 stocks. Book value is an accounting figure of the assets of a company minus its liabilities. It was the first time since 2011 that Berkshires book value outperformed the S&P 500 and the fifth time in the past decade. More important than book value, Buffett said in the letter, is the companys intrinsic value, which he said far exceeds its book value because the dozens of companies it owns are not re-valued after they are purchased. Thats why the market value of the company, reflected in its stock price, has risen faster than its book value over the past 25 years, Buffett said and the gap is growing. He praised the performance of BNSF Railway, saying the company boosted its profits and improved its service last year, earning a record profit of $6.8 billion, before taxes. That bucks the trend among U.S. railroads in 2015, when shipping volume declined and earnings weakened, Buffett said in the letter. Buffett said Berkshires financial flexibility gives us a significant edge over companies that limit themselves to acquisitions they will operate, and doubles our chances of finding sensible uses for Berkshires endless gusher of cash. He also said that unlike the activist investors who sometimes force companies unwillingly to cut costs or make other short-term changes, Berkshire seeks friendly acquisitions. ... At Berkshire, we go only where we are welcome. Over the years, some investment groups have argued that Berkshire would be more valuable to its shareholders if it were split into separate companies. Activist investor groups may have stronger interest of late because Berkshires stock price has declined in recent months. Cathy Seifert, an analyst with S&P Global Markets Intelligence, said that may be one reason Buffett mentioned activist investors and emphasized the combined strength of Berkshires growth strategies. Berkshires stock really hasnt performed all that well, Seifert said. You have to wonder if, at some point, there may be someone who comes rattling their cage, saying the conglomerate discount is too great, its time to break it up. You could take this as a back-handed swat at those potential activists who may be at the gate. Among the strengths of Berkshires combination of companies and investments is the money held by its insurance companies, known as float, said Ted Bridges, principal at Bridges Investment Management of Omaha, which owns Berkshire shares among its $1.8 billion in managed assets. The stock is cheap and attractive long term, and the long-term outlook for the company in the context of the U.S. economy is good, tempered by slowing growth in insurance float and the ever-present risk of terrorism, Bridges said. Buffett, 85, also predicted probably tongue-in-cheek that when he turns 100 years old on July 30, 2030, he plans to announce that Berkshires Geico division has finally overtaken State Farm Mutual Insurance to become the nations No. 1 auto insurer. He said this years crowd at the April 30 annual meeting of Berkshire shareholders in Omaha may level off or modestly decrease because, for the first time, the meeting will be live-streamed on the Web. Besides reaching a wider audience estimated at 75 million people rather than the 40,000 who have attended in person in recent years the Internet version will give shareholders who cant come to Omaha a live view of Buffett and Vice Chairman Charlie Munger, 92. On a more serious note, Buffett warned that while he has built up Berkshire to avoid risks of big losses, he and Munger would be powerless against major cyber, biological, nuclear or chemical attacks on the United States. Buffett has raised the specter of a nuclear attack in the past, but this years warning was especially grim, saying that the long-run chance of such an attack approaches certainty. The added bad news is that there will forever be people and organizations and perhaps even nations that would like to inflict maximum damage on our country. Their means of doing so have increased exponentially during my lifetime. Innovation has its dark side, he wrote. Otherwise, Buffetts letter was upbeat, arguing that Berkshires future is bright and that Americas best days are in the future, regardless of what some political candidates are saying. Buffett devoted two pages of his 30-page letter to details on Clayton Homes, the manufactured housing company Berkshire has owned since 2004, and the housing market in general. Last year Clayton was criticized in a series of news stories alleging that its lending practices are predatory and discriminatory. It was an extremely vigorous defense of Clayton Homes, said David Kass, a business professor at the University of Maryland and owner of Class B shares. Kass said Buffett took pains to point out that Clayton owns in perpetuity all of the mortgages it writes as opposed to selling them, as other lenders do, ostensibly meaning the company would do its best to keep borrowers from defaulting and getting repossessed. Buffett didnt mention the criticism specifically in the letter, writing that Clayton has made home ownership affordable for thousands of people 34,397 last year who otherwise would be renting. Clayton is not a predatory lender because it keeps the loans it makes, Buffett wrote. When we make mistakes in granting credit, we therefore pay a price a hefty price that dwarfs any profit we realized upon the original sale of the home, he wrote, giving Clayton a strong incentive to make loans it believes borrowers can repay. The company lost $157 million last year when it foreclosed on 8,444 manufactured-home loans, he said, out of $13 billion in mortgage loans. Yet Clayton borrowers kept up their mortgage payments better than many people with higher incomes during the Great Recession, he said. He said Claytons lending is closely regulated by federal and state authorities and over the past two years has paid $38,200 in fines and $704,678 in refunds, with 95.4 percent of its borrowers current on their payments at the end of 2015. Berkshires report also showed that Wells Fargo & Co. remains its largest stock holding with a market value up more than threefold in the past 10 years, from $7.6 billion in 2006 to $27 billion at the end of 2015. Berkshire also added to its holdings of Minneapolis-based U.S. Bancorp by 5 percent to 102 million shares. Other notable changes in the list of the largest stock holdings: Berkshire trimmed its stake in New York investment bank Goldman Sachs by 13 percent to 11.3 million shares and its Walmart Stores stake by 6.2 percent to 63.5 million shares. Holdings in farm implement maker Deere & Co. increased by almost 40 percent to 22.1 million shares. In 2015, the number of shares remained steady in American Express, Coca-Cola, DaVita Healthcare, Moodys, Procter & Gamble, and drugmaker Sanofi. All told, Berkshires stock portfolio had a year-end market value of $112 billion, down 4.2 percent from a year earlier. Kaplan, the Omaha financial manager, owns and recommends Berkshire shares to clients, and said he is positive on banking. The sector is trading at or close to book value. It is down because commodity prices are down, and this will change in the future. Meanwhile, Precision Castparts is now part of Berkshires powerhouse six large operating businesses, a group that also includes Berkshire Hathaway Energy, BNSF Railway, Marmon Industries, Lubrizol Corp. and International Metalworking Companies, formerly Iscar. Buffett said Precision Castparts adds 30,500 employees to Berkshires 360,000-person workforce and will use Berkshires money to make acquisitions in the aerospace industry. He said Berkshire wouldnt have acquired Precision Castparts without Todd Combs, the Berkshire money manager who first bought shares in the Portland, Oregon-based company and recommended buying it. Combs and Ted Weschler manage $9 billion in Berkshires investments, Buffett said. Hiring these two was one of my best moves. Seifert, the S&P analyst, also said Berkshires diverse holdings have made it a microcosm of the broader economy. While Buffett argued that Berkshire can adjust to problems related to climate change, Geico in particular may face added risks of high auto accident claims. People are driving more because of low gasoline prices, auto sales are booming and people seem to be texting and talking on smartphones more than ever a dismal combination for auto safety and companies that insure drivers, she said. Im a little disappointed he didnt speak more to some of the risk at Geico, she said. Its unbelievable. World-Herald staff writers Russell Hubbard and Brad Davis contributed to this report. Berkshire Hathaway Inc. owns the Omaha World-Herald. IOWA CITY (AP) The University of Iowa's interim campus police leader interfered with an investigation into a hit-and-run drunk driving accident by his stepson after the two left an Iowa City bar, driving away before officers could interview him, according to records obtained by the Associated Press. Investigative documents withheld from the public for months show that David Visin refused an officer's requests by phone to pull over on June 25 so police could speak with him and his passenger, his stepson Sean Crane. Officers were searching for Crane, 33, because his truck had smashed into two cars minutes earlier in a parking lot outside the bar. Instead of stopping, Visin dropped Crane at a gas station a few miles away and left before officers arrived. Johnson County sheriff's deputy Brad Kunkel later found Crane intoxicated and shirtless on the side of a nearby highway with a major abrasion on his back that required emergency medical treatment. Visin repeatedly told Kunkel he couldn't pull over because he needed to go home to drop off a trailer he was pulling, saying: "I'm not a good trailer puller." Visin said he left Crane because he "wanted him to get the hell out of my truck" after learning about the hit-and-run. Kunkel told Visin those explanations were ridiculous, according to audio from his police car obtained by AP. On Monday, Visin blamed his actions on diabetes, a disease he said he has hidden from colleagues to avoid discrimination. He told the AP he had not been drinking, had no involvement in the hit-and-run and wasn't aware of Crane's injuries then. He denied interfering, saying: "Without my assistance, they never would have found him." He said his judgment was affected by low blood-sugar levels, and he needed to get home to inject himself with insulin and eat. "I am sorry that this whole incident occurred and really, that covering up my disease has led to this moment," he said. Visin, 47, has served as assistant vice president and director of public safety for 14 months, earning a $153,000 salary. The university is expected to decide soon whether to permanently give him the job, which has become increasingly high-profile as the school fights binge drinking and sexual assault. In his report, Kunkel said he believed Visin interfered with the investigation and lied. But authorities didn't file any charges. Sheriff Lonny Pulkrabek said officers didn't have cause to investigate further once Visin left. After having Crane transported by ambulance to a hospital, Kunkel blasted Visin in a phone conversation he recorded. He said Visin should have known, as an officer, that the only "reasonable, logical and ethical thing" was to pull over and that Crane's injuries should have raised concerns. "A cop is on the phone telling you to stop, and the person with you is involved in a hit-and-run, and you don't do that? You tried to interfere with this. You tried to make this difficult," Kunkel said. "I think the worst thing you could have done is walk away and wash your hands of it, because it looks like you're trying to hide something." Crane received treatment for "road rash" on his back, which he suffered after being ejected from his truck during the hit-and-run accident, according to video of the stop and police reports. His blood alcohol level was twice the legal limit, and Crane admitted he had been smoking marijuana after officers found joints in his truck. He was sentenced to two days in jail after pleading guilty to operating a vehicle while intoxicated. Prosecutors dropped a drug charge. Johnson County Attorney Janet Lyness refused the AP's request for investigative reports in July, citing Crane's criminal case. AP renewed its request in December after Crane pleaded guilty, then notified Lyness last week it was planning to file a complaint accusing her of violating the open records law. Lyness apologized for delays and released the records. Visin told police he met Crane at Eagles Club bar at 4 p.m. Two hours later, witnesses called police to report the hit-and-run. Police learned the truck involved was registered to Crane, and Kunkel went to Crane's home to investigate. Visin and Crane left in Visin's truck as Kunkel arrived. Crane's wife then connected Kunkel and Visin by phone. When Kunkel told Visin about the accident and asked him to pull over, Visin repeatedly said he had no idea what was happening, irritating Kunkel, who called the situation "pretty straightforward." Kunkel told Visin not to leave Crane by himself, but he did. Visin said Monday he learned about the hit-and-run from Kunkel, and "was very angry." He said his hypoglycemia made things worse. He said Crane regrets that his "deception and addiction led to possible damage to my career." Copyright 2016 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed. Hire next fire chief from within It is hard to believe that Omaha Fire Chief Bernie Kanger is going to retire when he was hand-picked for the job by the mayor (Kangers leadership skills noted as his tenure as fire chief closes, Feb. 24 World-Herald). I thought he would at least stay through Mayor Jean Stotherts term. I think it is a slap in the face of Omahas firefighters that there will be a nationwide search for his replacement. That tells me that city officials do not think that any of the men and women of the OFD are qualified. Gary Masek, Omaha One way to take politics out of it The Nebraska Legislature is considering making the drawing of the congressional districts a nonpartisan process. I highly commend that. Rather than gerrymandering, lets opt for simple and cheap use whole counties. The 2010 Census numbers showed that the population of our great state was 1.83 million. Divide that by our three congressional districts and you have roughly 600,000 per district. Starting in the northwest with Sioux County, go south to Kimball County and head east by county until you get as close to 608,780 total residents as possible, without dividing counties. That is the Third District. Then we start counting residents again, until we get to our magic number of residents. Those counties would make up the Second District. The remaining counties would be the First District. Going county by county would be a lot less political than dividing a city up into chunks or gerrymandering districts. Scott Fredrickson, Bennington, Neb. The older set hasnt served us so well Feb. 24 Public Pulse writer Karl S. Roth (Wise to reject immature bill) might be guilty of profiling based on age and experience. How can our 18-year-olds be good enough to vote, go to war to possibly be slaughtered and work to fund our Social Security benefits but arent wise enough to serve in our Legislature? Look at where our experienced and mature lawmakers have put this country in the last 40 years. That answers my question. Im 56. Maybe guys like me and you should go to war so our young and naive can get some experience here at home. Marvin K. Haas, St. Edward, Neb. Helmets dont offer real protection Regarding Feb. 24 Public Pulse writer Bill Carys letter, Before taking off that helmet: I have enjoyed riding for 30 years. I recently read an article that stated that a helmet will protect your head when it strikes the pavement, but there is no helmet on the market that is able to reduce the impact the brain takes when it strikes the inside of your skull in the event of a crash. While I do believe it is safer to ride with a helmet, this is the first time I looked at this issue from that point of view. Until they invent a helmet that will reduce that impact, I would like to be able to decide for myself whether to wear a helmet or not. Jim Birkel, Fremont, Neb. Omahas lawless drivers Omaha has relegated traffic enforcement to a level of yard waste collection. Yes, it has to be done, but it is a distraction of resources rather than a priority to be optimized. Running a red light or a stop sign or speeding should get the driver a fine and reduction in points from their drivers license to discourage such behavior. Apparently, drivers no longer fear that because there is a low probability that they will get caught and end up in court. Any candidate running for Omaha mayor who at least acknowledges a problem with reckless drivers has my vote, regardless of political party affiliation. Tim Burke, Omaha Debate worthy of the playground Watching the Republican debate Thursday evening, I was reminded of an old childhood game, Monkey in the Middle, except that there were three monkeys in the middle. John Kasich and Ben Carson although largely eclipsed by the nattering banter of the monkeys were mostly above the fray. They appeared to be at least somewhat presidential and managed to refrain from the ad hominem attacks that seemed to be the only things brought to the event by the other three candidates. We may now look forward to the other partys version of Frick and Frack. John A. Daum, Omaha All talk but no answers Has anyone ever heard Donald Trump say how he is going to accomplish the things he wants to accomplish? I havent. During Thursday nights debate, he was asked directly how he was going to get Mexico to pay for a wall. Instead of answering the question, he blasted the former Mexican president with insults, as he always does, and never came close to answering the question. He spends his entire time insulting, exaggerating and putting down people with whom he disagrees, and the media eats it up. I cannot understand why so people think he is qualified to be president. Allen Barnard, Omaha Trumps main constituent? Trump You liar, you liar, your pants are on fire! Havent heard this little ditty from the great Donald Trump? Just you wait. As childish as he seems, it may be forthcoming. Ive watched a few of his speeches, if you can call them that. First, he brags about how rich he is, how wonderful he is, how great he is. Next paragraph he excoriates his opponents. He especially likes to call them liars. You liar, you liar . . . Then the last paragraph is drivel. Trump is rich and ruthless, or ruthless and rich, whichever came first. Trump gets what Trump wants. He is unpitying, fierce, brutish, mean. He loves the educated, the uneducated, the fat, the skinny, the rich, the poor he says. No. He doesnt love them. They are the dirt under his feet. Feet meant to smash and demean. Object to anything he says and expect to be denigrated. Agree with whatever he says, and youll be OK, at least for the time being until youve served his purpose. His motto is really Make Trump great! Trump will never be great. Mary Ann Cahoy, Columbus, Neb. Not environmentally friendly The League of Conservation Voters just released its 2015 National Environmental Scorecard for the 114th Congress, and voting records of Nebraskas two senators are abysmal. With only one exception by Sen. Deb Fischer, both senators voted against every piece of legislation designed to protect either the environment, our citizenry or both. Sen. Ben Sasse was given a 2015 score of zero. Fischer also rated a score of zero but earned a 7 percent lifetime score because she opposed legislation in 2014, her freshman year, that the league says would have undermined flood insurance reform. The league states that, under the leadership of Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., we can say with confidence that the extreme leadership of both the Senate and the House had made this the most anti-environmental Congress in our nations history. Theodore Roosevelt, the conservationist president, and Richard Nixon, who signed the Environmental Protection Agency into law, must be rolling in their graves. Bill Moore, Papillion Stop the games, close Guantanamo How would closing our Guantanamo Bay detention camp endanger our national safety? The detainees there pose no threat to us; of the 91 still held there, only about 10 are considered unreleasable. Im sure we can find a prison in the U.S. that can house these criminals. Quit playing games with this issue. Close this site and end this black page in our history. This is not who we are; we are a nation of laws, and justice must prevail. Doug Schrawger, Omaha A good lesson on the American dream I recently had an awesome experience attending a Vietnamese New Years celebration at Metropolitan Community College. The generosity of the Vietnamese organization hosting the evening was amazing. All attendees were furnished a free meal and a free raffle ticket and then enjoyed a night of entertainment, which included a dragon dance, drumming and a variety of musical performances and skits. All at no cost to the audience. It was the showcase of successful business owners and entrepreneurs that impacted me most. They showed the many youths in attendance a clear vision of the American dream, realized and achieved. It was truly inspiring. The Vietnamese people come here with nothing, unable to speak the language, then rise to the apex of American society. From them we can all learn and be inspired to do better. Andy Fox, Omaha TN polls 2016: Speculation over DMK-DMDK fallout after Dravidian leader slams Vijaykanth Chennai oi-Shubham Chennai, Feb 29: A post by Suba Veerapandian, a Dravidian leader considered close to DMK chief M Karunanidhi, in Oneindia Tamil lashing out at the DMDK has given rise to the speculation over whether the two parties would join hands for the upcoming Assembly elections at all. Why everybody wants to have an alliance with DMDK After DMK-Congress alliance, BJP's task gets tougher ahead of TN polls According to reports, Veerapandian, convenor of the Dravida Iyaka Tamilar Peravai, later clarified that he had written the article on Saturday night to express his personal views and one should not try to find a political motive behind it. He said in the article that the DMK should not wait for a "small party" like the DMDK, which has just five per cent vote-share and take a decision to contest in 200 seats. He also targeted the political style of DMDK chief Vijaykanth. Veerapandian's clarification came after he met Karunanidhi at his residence in Gopalapuram on Sunday morning. He was perhaps advised to clarify his attack on the DMDK then. DMK treasurer MK Stalin told media persons during his trip to Kolathur on Sunday that Veerapandian's views on the DMK contesting in 200 seats rather than waiting for the DMDK, were his own. The DMK treasurer M K Stalin told reporters during his trip to Kolathur on Sunday Mr Veerapandian's views that DMK should contest in 200 seats rather than waiting for the DMDK were his own. He also said that Veerapandian was not a member of the DMK, a Deccan Chronicle report said. However, between Veerapandian's posting of the blog and his clarification, speculation was rife in the media that since the former was close to Karunanidhi, he was only expresing the DMK chief's feelings. Meanwhile, Union Minister Prakash Javadekar met Vijayakanth at his residence to discuss the possibility of the DMDK joining the NDA front. He said a decision would be clear in the coming week. The NDA had parties like the DMDK and PMK on board in the 2014 Lok Sabha elections. This time, howeve the BJP is yet to find an ally officially even though the Congess and DMK have formalised an alliance between them. Oneindia News Budget 2016: Modi govt makes a move to shed 'Suit-boot ki Sarkar' tag Feature oi-Shubham By Shubham Was the Budget 2016-17 presented by Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley in Parliament on Monday an effort to shed its "Suit-boot ki Sarkar" tag, something which has often been used by the Opposition in the past? What Budget 2016-17 said Jaitley's thrust on agriculture: 10 top gifts The Budget that Jaitley presented extensively focused on the agriculture, rural and social welfare sectors seemed to have been directed at the criticism and it came out quite smoothly in the end. The NDA government's politics behind this Budget has two objectives. Balancing the pro-bullet train ideology with pro-farmer budget First, with the agriculture sector facing a serious crisis because of shortage of rain and drought conditions, the rural economy has been hit and in various states, farmers are being pushed to take drastic steps. And since the farmers's buying power is taking a beating, the demand for machinery has gone down and a result, there is less enthusiasm among the industries to set up new factories in the rural areas and that is in turn, affecting the job market. The Opposition, including the Congress, has often accused the Modi government of taking care of the poor farmers and only catering to the interests of the big businessmen. The humiliating loss in the Bihar Assembly elections last October has perhaps been the biggest eye-opener for the BJP and it is trying to correct the courses ahead of elections in West Bengal, UP and Punjab among others, scheduled over the next 12 months. The Budget even saw Jaitley allocating Rs 38,500 crore for the MGNREGA, an important pillar of the rural employment scheme, despite his PM mocking it in the past. The effort is indeed directed at dealing with he perception about the "Suit-boot ki Sarkar", which is growing stronger and could deliver a blow in future elections. The Modi government made the best possible move to balance the bullet train project with a pro-farmer budget. And the fact that the Opposition can criticise this pro-poor budget only at its own peril will also make the BJP happy. This Budget also a push to overcome the trust deficit The second objective was to make up for the trust deficit that the Modi government seems to be facing in the wake of the controversies that have rocked India of late. Following the serious criticism it faced over issues like beef ban, death of Rohith Vemula and the HRD minister's take on it in Parliament, JNU row and Jat agitation, the BJP leadership will feel apprehensive about losing connection with the grassroots and face bigger challenges in the next set of state elections. It hence chose agriculture to reconnect to India's soul that resides in the villages. A revived agriculture sector will help the NDA, besides shedding its pro-rich image and earn economic benefits by creating demands at the grassroots which will push the economy forward, also send a signal to the electorate that it is equally concerned with the bottom layers of the society and not just happy to be a urban-centric party. MISSOULA Despite a series of successes in the past year, the staff at the Montana Innocence Project know they have a lot of work still ahead of them. The nonprofit organization, established in 2008, focuses on exonerating prisoners in the state who it believes are innocent of the crimes they have been convicted of. Each week, the organization receives three or four letters from inmates asking for their case to be reviewed. Of the more than 600 cases the group has screened since its founding, legal director Larry Mansch said less than a dozen have been accepted to be litigated. The final step in choosing to take a client is putting their information in front of a screening committee, which is made of members of the board of directors. The big difference for us is actual innocence, not a technicality for not guilty, said Frank Sweeney, a Whitefish attorney and one of the founding board members. Another aspect of their work that many people dont always think about, executive director Joe Bischof said, is the flip side of what happens when an innocent person is put in prison. That means theres an actual guilty person still out there, possibly committing more crimes, he said. The Montana Innocence Project got its start in 2008, when Jessie McQuillan, then a reporter for the Missoula Independent, became more and more interested in the case of Barry Beach. She began to talk with Dan Weinberg, a Beach supporter who saw the convicted murderers exoneration efforts as a sign that there were many cases in the state that needed to be reexamined. At the time, Mansch said Montana was one of the few states without an Innocence Project. He thought Barry Beach gets all of the publicity but surely theres other people who are behind bars who are innocent, Mansch said. Beachs case has brought more attention to the subject of exoneration in recent years, Mansch said, adding that the Montana Innocence Project has worked on the case in a secondary, supporting role. The organization is almost entirely funded by individuals who believe in the Montana Innocence Projects mission, with some additional money from grants. Much of what they are able to accomplish, Bischof said, is due to the lawyers, law students, medical staff and others who volunteer their time for the cause. The Montana Innocence Projects court wins in 2015 include a decision in July from the 9th Circuit Court of Appeals in the case of Bill Watson, convicted in 2006 of raping a teenage girl. In the decision, the court found that scientific advancements that mean previously untestable or inconclusive DNA must now be seen as newly-discovered evidence and not subject to previous time limits. The science of DNA and the ability to test in detail has improved. It is now considered new evidence because you couldnt test it before, Sweeney said. Last August, the Montana Innocence Project had another pair of victories when the Montana Supreme Court granted new trials in separate cases, sending them back to Missoula district court. The cases were those of Robert Wilkes, convicted in 2010 of shaking his 3-month-old baby to death, and Cody Marble, who was convicted in 2002 of raping a boy in juvenile detention. The Innocence Project believed Wilkes received inadequate representation by his public defender, and that the conviction had relied heavily on testimony from then-associate state medical examiner Dr. Thomas Bennett. The Montana Attorney Generals Office ended Bennetts appointment last July after questions arose about his autopsies of children. In Marbles case, the Montana Innocence Project found that the accuser had repeatedly recanted his story, although he later reneged on the recantation. Finally, in October, a judge in Sanders County District Court overturned the conviction of another of the organizations clients, Richard Raugust. Raugust originally had been sentenced to life in prison in 1997 for the murder of a Trout Creek man. The Innocence Project won in court by claiming, among other issues, that evidence of innocence and witness testimony had been withheld at the first trial. Apart from exonerating those already convicted, the Montana Innocence Project also is working with prosecutors offices and law enforcement agencies across the state to help ensure that wrongful convictions dont happen to begin with, including trying to improve how eyewitness testimony is collected. The Montana Innocence Project also is planning to work to make changes at the legislative level, including a push for statewide requirements to preserve DNA evidence for a set period of time. Ideally for us, that would be the life or incarceration time for a defendant, Sweeney said. Regardless of how convinced we are at the time, the science evolves. Mansch and Bischof are the only two full-time employees of the Montana Innocence Project. At the start of October 2015, the organization lost one of its employees in a climbing accident when the body of 26-year-old Spencer Veysey, who was vacationing in Colorado, was found on the east face of Longs Peak in Rocky Mountain National Park. Veysey, who graduated from the University of Montana's School of Journalism in 2012, had been working with the Montana Innocence Project since he was a student, eventually serving as the organizations on-staff investigator. Mansch said he was a tireless worker with a great passion for the work he did for the Innocence Project. At a memorial service in Missoula, I said the first word those people who are released should have come out of their mouths is Thank God for Spencer Veysey, he said. Without him, the organization has been without a dedicated investigator, an issue Mansch said they are hoping to be able to address this year. The project also is continuing to work on the cases of Richard Burkhart, who in 2002 was convicted of killing a man with a ball-peen hammer in Great Falls. The Innocence Project has found witnesses who never were contacted by law enforcement and never testified in the case. It also hopes to secure a new trial for Katie Garding of Stevensville, sentenced in 2011 for hitting and killing Bronson Parsons with her car in East Missoula in 2008. Sweeney said they do not believe her car was involved, as he claims it was not damaged. They also question the testimony of Gardings boyfriend, who Sweeney said had an incentive to cooperate in her conviction as a "snitch" in a deal with prosecutors. Mansch said they also are in the process of evaluating new cases to take up. The Innocence Project has a five-tier system for evaluation, with about 15 cases currently in the middle stages where claims of innocence and potential new information and evidence are examined. We are dedicated to carrying on the fight, Mansch said. Students in UMs School of Social Work have put together a guide of programs and other information for people released from jail who are working to reintegrate into society in Missoula, Mansch said. This year, the Montana Innocence Project is hoping to develop similar guides for other large cities across the state. Bischof said 2015 was a record year for exonerations in the U.S., as a University of Michigan Law School study showed 149 cases where a person was declared innocent or had their conviction overturned. Sweeney said the rate has become so prevalent that some communities in Texas, the state with the most exonerations last year, have set up special conviction integrity units within prosecutors' offices solely to look into claims of innocence. Bischof said if national trends hold true for Montana, the Innocence Project is likely only on the tip of the iceberg in the number of cases where the innocent are imprisoned in our state. Chandrababu Naidu tries to balance between Kapu and BC Feature oi-Lisa Chief Minister of Andhra Pradesh N. Chandrababu Naidu wanting to do that justice to both Kapus and Backward Castes announced that scholarships will be provided to Kapu students from next academic year onwards. However, CM Naidu did not elaborate much on this. He made the announcement while addressing a Kapu runa mela organised at Eluru. Other promises that CM Naidu made to the Kapu community are: Government will give a hand-holding to the poor in Kapu community. Government would earmark Rs. 1,000 crore for the Kapu Corporation in the coming budget. Government will disburse loans to the tune of Rs. 192 crore to Kapus through the Kapu Corporation. CM Naidu's message: CM Naidu's message was that poor are found in all the castes in the state and his government will rather try to remove economic disparities and work till the goal is achieved. Mr. Naidu was also reported to have said that, "We already appointed Justice Manjunatha Commission to study on the BC reservations to Kapus in the State. On Wednesday, we appointed members to the commission and it has been given nine months time to submit its report." CM on those provoking violence: "Under the guise of agitation, those people are provoking violence. The East and West Godavari district stood for their peacefulness, sincerity and honesty and we never witnessed such violence which took place recently in these districts. These forces are obstructing the airport construction at Bhogapuram and instigating the farmers who are willing to give their lands." "We acquired 33,000 acres from the farmers voluntarily for the construction of capital. Some people tried to create obstacles for this." CM on those creating controversy: "If peace prevails, there will be development. In addition, at those places we will get the industries, tourism spots." Kapu demands: The demands of the Kapu caste which mainly depends on agriculture for livelihood are: Inclusion in the state's backward classes list Set up a welfare corporation for Kapu caste and endow the corporation with Rs. 1,000 crore annually. Kapus as a community: Only two Kapu castes are included in the list of backward classes (BC). In Andhra Pradesh there are four caste Balijas, Kapus, Ontaris and Telagas which when united form more than a quarter of the Andhra Pradesh's population. Benefits for Kapus should they get included in BC list: Kapus will get reservation in government educational institutions and for government jobs too They will get benefit while building houses The students will get scholarships for private study. History of Kapu movement: Kapu movement began under the leadership of Congress politician Vangaveeti Mohan Ranga Rao in the 1980s. Ranga Rao was assassinated while on a hunger strike while the movement was at its peak in 1989. Mudragada Padmanabham took over from where it was left by Ranga Rao. In the early 1990s he was the biggest champion of the Kapu cause. Since 1980s Kapus have been encouraging inter-marriage to build solidarity with the common demand to be included in Backward Castes. Views of the caste who are already in BC list: Kapus are only economically backward. Including then in BC list goes against the foundation of reservations. Economic backwardness is temporary and any one can get out of it without the help of reservations. Socially deprived can't develop financially without reservations. Pro-Farmer, Pro-Rural #VikasKaBudget Feature oi-Lisa Former Chief Minister of Jammu and Kashmir, Omar Abdullah had this to say on #VikasKaBudget presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitely. "By not focusing the benefits of Union Budget 2016 on the suit boot people Arun Jaitley has cleverly made the opposition's job a bit tougher." Shivraj Singh Chouhan Chief Minister of Madhya Pradesh said that, "I'm very happy as Union Budget 2016 has been dedicated to farmers". Union Minister Kiren Rijiju said, "What could be a better budget for common man? It will bring transformation in Rural India". The budget 2016-17 comes across as one that is tailor made to shed the tag of "Suit-Boot Ki Sarkar" given to it by Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi. When FM was talking about the roadmap and priorities for the budget he had mentioned that the focus is on enhancing expenditure in priority areas of - farm and rural sector, social sector, infrastructure sector, employment generation and recapitalisation of the banks. Budget allocations proved how focused he was on farm and rural sector. This is how the farm sector and rural sector benefitted from the budget: Farm sector: 1. Allocation for Agriculture and Farmers' welfare is Rs. 35,984 crore. 2. Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana' to be implemented in mission mode. 28.5 lakh hectares will be brought under irrigation. 3. Implementation of 89 irrigation projects under AIBP, which are languishing for a long time, will be fast tracked. 4. A dedicated Long Term Irrigation Fund will be created in NABARD with an initial corpus of about Rs. 20,000 crore. 5. Programme for sustainable management of ground water resources with an estimated cost of Rs. 6,000 crore will be implemented through 3 multilateral funding. 6. 5 lakh farm ponds and dug wells in rain fed areas and 10 lakh compost pits for production of organic manure will be taken up under MGNREGA. 7. Soil Health Card scheme will cover all 14 crore farm holdings by March 2017. 8. 2,000 model retail outlets of Fertilizer companies will be provided with soil and seed testing facilities during the next three years. 9. Promote organic farming through Parmparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana' and 'Organic Value Chain Development in North East Region'. 10. Unified Agricultural Marketing e-Platform to provide a common e-market platform for wholesale markets. 11. Allocation under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana increased to Rs. 19,000 crore. Will connect remaining 65,000 eligible habitations by 2019. 12. To reduce the burden of loan repayment on farmers, a provision of Rs. 15,000 crore has been made in the BE 2016-17 towards interest subvention. 13. Allocation under Prime Minister Fasal Bima Yojana Rs. 5,500 crore. 14. Rs. 850 crore for four dairying projects - Pashudhan Sanjivani', Nakul Swasthya Patra', E-Pashudhan Haat' and National Genomic Centre for indigenous breeds Rural sector: 1. Allocation for rural sector - Rs. 87,765 crore. 2. Rs. 2.87 lakh crore will be given as Grant in Aid to Gram Panchayats and Municipalities as per the recommendations of the 14th Finance Commission. 3. Every block under drought and rural distress will be taken up as an intensive Block under the Deen Dayal Antyodaya Mission. 4. A sum of Rs. 38,500 crore allocated for MGNREGS. 5. 300 Rurban Clusters will be developed under the Shyama Prasad 4 Mukherjee Rurban Mission. 6. 100% village electrification by 1st May, 2018. 7. District Level Committees under Chairmanship of senior most Lok Sabha MP from the district for monitoring and implementation of designated Central Sector and Centrally Sponsored Schemes. 8. Priority allocation from Centrally Sponsored Schemes to be made to reward villages that have become free from open defecation. 9. A new Digital Literacy Mission Scheme for rural India to cover around 6 crore additional household within the next 3 years. 10. National Land Record Modernisation Programme has been revamped. 11. New scheme Rashtriya Gram Swaraj Abhiyan proposed with allocation of Rs. 655 crore. What JD(U) leader said on Prashant Kishor-Nitish Kumar meet: 'No offer...' Nitish Kumar has been affected by his age: Prashant Kishor After Punjab, Congress books Prashant Kishor for 2017 UP, Gujarat assembly polls India oi-Preeti Bengaluru, Feb 29: Prashant Kishor, the Master strategist behind Narendra Modi's thumping victory in 2014 Lok Sabha elections, is all set to turn his magical wand at Congress for Uttar Pradesh and Gujarat assembly elections, that are slated to be held in 2017. 37-year-old Prashant is already booked by Congress for 2017 Punjab assembly elections, and has now sought his help for other two key states as well. As per a report published in Economic Times, Congress Vice President Rahul Gandhi held a meeting with Prashant last week. The report further said that Priyanka Gandhi may be projected as the CM candidate for Uttar Pradesh. To plan his strategy for UP polls, Prashant may hire few professionals. Congress leaders from Uttar Pradesh, are also likely to report to him, in coming days. In 2015, Prashant proved his mettle in Bihar, by turning the tide in the favour of grand alliance formed by JD(U)-RJD-Congress. In Jan, 2016, Prashant Kishor was appointed as advisor to Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar for Planning and Programme Implementation. [Prashant Kishor appointed as advisor to Nitish Kumar; to strategise for Punjab polls too] The Congress, which was in power in Punjab in 2002-2007, lost in the 2007 and the 2012 polls to the Shiromani Akali Dal-BJP alliance. The state will witness a triangular contest in the February 2017 polls, with the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) making it clear that it will enter the political fray aiming to form the next government. In 403-member Uttar Pradesh legislative assembly, Congress has only 29 MLAs and in 182-member Gujarat legislative assembly, Congress has 58 MLAs. OneIndia News Bomb hoax at Thai consulate in Kolkata India oi-PTI Kolkata, Feb 29: The Thai consulate here received a hoax e-mail and a telephone call this morning about presence of a bomb on its premises, triggering panic among the staff. Deputy Commissioner of Police (South-East) Gaurav Sharma told PTI, an e-mail stating explosives have been placed inside the building was received on the official address of Royal Thai Consulate-General at around 7.35 am and the call was made to the office at around 9.55 am. Officials at the consulate informed Gariahat police station and a bomb disposal squad and a dog squad were rushed. The building was evacuated and a thorough search was conducted but nothing was found and the police declared the call and the mail as hoax. "We have not found anything ... It was a hoax call. We are checking who is behind this," Sharma said, adding the police were trying to locate the number from which the call was made. He did not say anything on the e-mail. According to an officer at the Consulate, the e-mail was noticed at around 9.35 am soon after the office opened. "We received the call at around 9.55 am from a person who identified himself as Mr Ghosh from the Intelligence Bureau (IB) telling us that explosives have reached our office and we must inform the police. The person did not disclose which department of the IB he was calling from despite asking repeatedly and hung up midway," the officer said. PTI Dhanteras 2022: How much gold can you buy from Dubai Budget 2016: Modi Govt unveils measures to boost growth and employment generation India oi-Avinash New Delhi, Feb 29: While presenting the Union Budget 2016-17 in Lok Sabha on Monday (Feb 29), the Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley said that startups generate employment, bring innovation and are expected to be key partners in Make in India programme. Union Budget 2016: Highlights He proposed to assist their propagation through 100% deduction of profits for 3 out of 5 years for startups set-up during April 2016 to March 2019. MAT will apply in such cases. However, capital gains will not be taxed if invested in regulated/notified Fund of Funds and by individuals in notified startups, in which they hold majority shares. Jaitley also proposed a special patent regime with 10% rate of tax of income from worldwide exploitation of patents developed and registered in India. To get more investment in Asset Reconstruction Companies (ARCs), the Union Finance Minister proposed to provide a complete pass through of income-tax to securitisation trusts including trusts of ARCs. He said that the income will be taxed in the hands of investors instead of the trust. However, the trust will be liable to deduct tax at source. (Arun Jaitley presents Union Budget 2016: Here's how Twitter reacted) The period for getting benefit of long term capital gain regime in case of unlisted companies was proposed to be reduced from three to two years. Jaitley also said that non-banking financial companies shall be eligible for deduction to the extent of 5% of their income in respect of provision for bad and doubtful debts. He reiterated the commitment to implement GAAR from 1.4.2017. The Union Finance Minister also informed that to meet the commitment to BEPS initiative of OECD and G-20, the Finance Bill, 2016 includes provision for requirement of country by country reporting for companies with a consolidated revenue of more than Euro 750 million. (Union Budget 2016: Nothing concrete seen, says Bihar CM Nitish Kumar) He further proposed to exempt service tax on services provided under Deen Dayal Upadhyay Grameen Kaushalya Yojana and services provided by Assessing Bodies empanelled by Ministry of Skill Development & Entrepreneurship. He also proposed to exempt service tax on general insurance services provided under Niramya' Health Insurance Scheme launched by National Trust for the Welfare of Persons with Autism, Cerebral Palsy, Mental Retardation and Multiple Disability. Jaitley also proposed to extend nil basic customs duty to Braille paper. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, February 29, 2016, 16:52 [IST] Budget will be a great fillip to rural demand: Nabard Chairman India oi-PTI Mumbai, Feb 29: The National Bank for Agriculture and Rural Development (Nabard) has welcomed the Budget saying the measures announced are positive for the sector that will help boost the sagging rural demand through provisions like the Rs 20,000-crore irrigation fund. Read more: Highlights Of Union Budget 2016 "Overall, this is a positive Budget for the rural sector that we cater to and the plans outlayed will help increase rural demand," Chairman HK Bhanwala told PTI when sought his comments on the Budget presented by Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today. The minister said a dedicated long-term irrigation fund will be created in NABARD with a corpus of Rs 20,000 crore. According to Bhanwala, timely implementation of the 28 projects identified under the scheme will help mitigate distress to a large extent. The government has made a budgetary provision of Rs 12,517 crore for the fund, while the rest will come from market borrowings. The soil health card scheme, under which the government is aiming to cover all the 14 crore farm holdings by March 2017 at a cost of Rs 368 crore, will help boost productivity and it is an area which has been needing our attention for long time now, Bhanwala said. Other initiatives on the social sector, as well as rural roads programme, where the government has increased the outlay to Rs 19,000 crore for next fiscal, will be of great help, he said. The increase in the agri lending target to Rs 9 trillion from Rs 8.5 trillion is also positive for the rural economy as farmers will be more confident of accessing credit, the Nabard chairman said. The farm sector and the rural economy have been facing distress after a second consecutive year of drought in many parts, which had led to demands for reviving the sector ahead of the budget presentation. The Nabard chairman said while there was no mention of long-term funds like the Rural Infrastructure Development Fund (RIDF) in the Budget, there might be a "separate approach" on this subject in the days ahead. Nabard also expects to get capital from the Rs 5,000-crore earmarked for bank recapitalisation in the Budget. PTI For new Delhi police commissioner Alok Kumar Verma, road ahead not exactly a bed of roses India oi-Vicky New Delhi, Feb 29: For the new police commissioner of Delhi, the next 17 months are crucial. Alok Kumar Verma the 1979 batch IPS officer took charge from the controversial B S Bassi who retired today. Taking over in the backdrop of the JNU row and also a tussle between the Delhi and Central government over the policing powers, Verma will also handle a host of high profile cases that are pending. Policing is a passion for Verma who is considered by colleagues as an upright, honest and no-nonsense officer. Verma also has a penchant for technology and the same was pointed by Bassi who said he would take the technology factor in the Delhi police to a whole new level. Road ahead for Verma: For Verma, the road ahead is no easy one. With a 80,000 member force to manage, he will first need to strike a balance between the Delhi and the Central government. There has been a tug of war with the Delhi government insisting that they be given powers over the Delhi police, a request the centre has not considered. Verma has 17 months in office and is due to retire on August 2017. Verma who was the Director General of the Tihar jail following the sudden shifting of Vimla Mehra now takes over from Bassi who has always known to be controversial. The first major challenge before him is the JNU case. It was under Bassi that sedition charges were filed and the former Police Commissioner had appeared confident of sustaining those charges in court. The case is currently being investigated by the Special Cell of the Delhi police. In addition to the JNU case, Verma will also have to oversee the probe into the Sunanda Pushkar murder case. Further, the sexual abuse case filed against R K Pachauri of TERI is also being probed by the Delhi police. However, all eyes will be on him regarding his handling of the JNU incident. Bassi was criticised for sending police into the JNU campus. Further a section also felt that while the matter relating to anti national slogans deserves investigation, the filing of sedition charges had been questioned. Verma's colleagues say that they are confident that he would handle all of this with ease. Prior to Verma taking over there were some within the force who had tried block his appointment as the Delhi police commissioner. Rumours of him mismanaging activities in Tihar were floated around by the contenders to the coveted post. They even spoke about the BBC documentary that was shot inside the Tihar jail. However, Verma made it clear that permission was given by his predecessor, Vimla Mehra. OneIndia News Bihar: Girls protest after being asked to remove Hijab during exam Bihar: When asked to take off hijab to check for bluetooth device, Muslim student leaves exam centre Central team roped in as dengue cases in Bihar rise to over 5000 Here is how goons use selfie to extort ransom in Bihar India oi-Jagriti Patna, Feb 29: An extortionist gang in Bihar has started using selfie to scare victims while seeking ransom, media reported. According to a report, a group of goons in Darbhanga district of Bihar, sent a selfie of their kingpin and other members, brandishing sophisticated weapons so that they could scare their victims while demanding ransom. A teacher identified as Shyam Kumar Rai, a resident of Navtolia village received pictures of weapons such as carbines, pistols and bombs through WhatsApp, reported the Daily Mail. He also received a phone call from gangster Naveen Singh demanding a ransom of Rs5 lakh. Horrific selfie claims teen's life near Chennai Police took action after a complaint was filed. Police is said to have arrested Naveen along with his driver Sukhdev Rai. The mobile phone used to send the pictures has also been seized. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, February 29, 2016, 13:31 [IST] Ishrat Jahan encounter - P Chidambaram needs to answer these questions India oi-Vicky By Vicky New Delhi, Feb 29: Ever since David Headley stated before a court in Mumbai that Ishrat Jahan was a Lashkar-e-Tayiba operative, there have been a spate of statements on this issue. The statements made by former Home Secretary G K Pillai are not only mind boggling, but also shows the mindset of the previous government who appeared hell bent on trying to prove that the encounter in which Ishrat and three others were killed at Gujarat was fake. Take for instance, the affidavits filed by the union government before the Gujarat High Court on this issue. Both the affidavits filed run contrary and none can explain this better than the then home minister P Chidambaram. The first affidavit filed in August 2009 states that Ishrat and three others were part of a sleeper cell of the Lashkar-e-Tayiba. The next affidavit filed exactly a month later states that the inputs were not conclusive proof that those killed in the encounter had terror links. A tale of two affidavits: It is still not clear why the union government decided to take such a stand on this issue. Some officers in the Intelligence Bureau say that the intention was to target the then Chief Minister of Gujarat Narendra Modi and make it look like his government had ordered a fake encounter. Taking it a step further the then union government even stated in the High Court that there was no conclusive evidence to suggest that those killed in the encounter had terror links. The September 2009 affidavit, which ran contrary to the one filed in August also states that the central government is no way concerned with with such action and also does not condone, endorse any excessive action. Questions for Chidambaram: Pillai says that it was Chidambaram who dictated the revised affidavit. There was never any discussion on the issue with the home ministry officials, Pillai also said. In this context one has to pose several questions for the former home minister. Why was the affidavit revised? Did the inputs by the intelligence bureau which had first claimed that Ishrat and others were terrorists change after the encounter. Several officials part of the intelligence bureau say that the inputs always remained the same. What does Chidambaram have to say about the claim by the online magazine of the Lashkar-e-Tayiba which termed her as a martyr, following the encounter. When David Headley stated to the National Investigation Agency that Ishrat was a suicide bomber in the Lashkar-e-Tayiba, why was the agency told not to probe this angle. The NIA had said at that time that it was not part of their brief while it is quite a well known fact that the Ishrat angle was ordered not to be looked into. Why were the higher officials in the Home Ministry including the home secretary left out of the discussion when the affidavit was being revised? Why were only junior officials of the Intelligence Bureau called in for the meeting before the affidavit was revised. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, February 29, 2016, 8:50 [IST] It is a development-oriented Budget: Paswan India oi-PTI New Delhi, Feb 29: Terming the Budget 2016-17 as "development oriented", Food Minister Ram Vilas Paswan today said it is in the interest of poor, farmers and youth. "The budget is development-oriented. It is in the interest of poor, farmers, and youth. There is special focus on agriculture, infrastructure, rural development, education and social sectors," Paswan tweeted. In the Budget, an allocation of Rs 1.40 lakh crore has been provided for the Food Ministry, which is almost similar to the last year. Of this allocation, Rs 1.34 lakh crore is earmarked for food subsidy. For the Consumer Affairs Department, the allocation has been increased substantially to Rs 1,241.61 crore for 2016-17 from Rs 306.13 crore in the previous year. The allocation has increased as the Price Stabalisation Fund has been shifted to this department from the Agriculture Ministry. While presenting the budget, Finance Minister Arun Jaitley emphasised the need to ensure MSP reaches to farmers across the country. For which, he proposed three initiatives which will be carried out by the Food Ministry in 2016-17. "First, the remaining states will be encouraged to take up decentralized procurement. Second, an online Procurement System will be undertaken through the Food Corporation of India. This will usher in transparency and convenience to the farmers through prior registration and monitoring of actual procurement. Third, effective arrangements have been made for pulses procurement," Jaitley said. Meanwhile, Power Minister Piyush Goel described the Budget as a "transformational" one and said, "Vast subjects have been covered in it". Telecom Minister Ravi Shankar Prasad said, "It is a Budget for every Indian. This budget has taken care of the rural India, gram panchayat, and urban India. It takes care of those who need healthcare. It has taken care of infrastructure. It brings a stable tax regime." PTI CHEYENNE, Wyo. Top Wyoming lawmakers say they expect the Legislature to wrap up its budget session this week. Yet, they say the session will still leave major unanswered questions facing the state, including how to pay for future school construction in the face of evaporating coal revenues and how to address structural problems at the crumbling state penitentiary in Rawlins. Legislative leaders say they expect both houses to approve a budget bill and send it to Gov. Matt Mead early this week. Doing so will afford him the required few days to review it and still allow the Legislature time to consider whether to override any possible veto and adjourn by Friday. The $3.3-billion general appropriations bill calls for 1.5-percent reductions for most state agencies over the two-year budget cycle starting next July. The Wyoming Department of Health would not be subject to the cuts. House Appropriations Committee Chairman Rep. Steve Harshman, R-Casper, said a conference committee agreed on Friday to call for cutting funding to the state's K-12 school program by 1.2 percent. He said the committee also agreed not to pursue cuts in school transportation funding, as the House had voted earlier. Harshman said the budget bill would result in spending roughly $220 million out of the state's $1.8-billion "rainy day" fund over the coming two years. That figure includes $80 million for school capital construction, $105 million for local government spending and $36 million to account for other spending. Wyoming's budget process this year is more complicated than usual. In addition to the general appropriations bill, the Legislature is moving separate bills for other aspects of state spending including capital construction, local government funding and appropriation of federal Abandoned Mine Lands funds. The decision by legislative leaders to run the several separate spending bills followed complaints last year that the 2015 supplemental budget bill included funding for several projects that weren't ordinary expenses for the state as the state Constitution required. Wednesday is the last day for final votes on bills in the House and the Senate and Thursday is the last day for concurrence on conference committee reports. "We've got to get the reconciliation done on the budget, that's my primary focus," said House Speaker Kermit Brown, R-Laramie. "Whatever else we get done is just gravy. But we're here for the budget session." Wyoming in recent years has spent billions from federal bonus payments from coal leases to fund school construction. However, state revenue analysts say that money is drying up in the face of lower demand for coal. Brown said he doesn't know what where the state will find long-term funding for school construction. "I guess we need to continue building schools, but doggone it, everybody's feeling the pinch, and I don't think the schools get a bye on that," he said. In addition to uncertainty about school funding, both Brown and Senate President Phil Nicholas, R-Laramie, said they're concerned about the future of the state penitentiary. Robert Lampert, director of the Wyoming Department of Corrections, told lawmakers this month that fixing structural problems at the penitentiary will cost $85 million. Consultants say improper construction techniques resulted in heaving floors and cracking walls at the 15-year-old prison. The state had to abandon an earlier prison nearby because of similar problems. The pending general appropriations bill includes over $7 million for emergency work to shore up an electrical utility room and a gymnasium roof. "The one that probably worries me more than anything is that prison, that's a real wild card out there," Brown said. Nicholas is pushing a bill to create a legislative task force to monitor the situation at the penitentiary. "We've now had two chances at building the prison at Rawlins," he said. "They've both failed, and it certainly is nonsensical to take a third try at it without knowing that we're going to have 100 percent success." J&K - PDP wants Pakistan's involvement in sustained dialogue India oi-Vicky Srinagar, Feb 29: There is still no word on the government formation at Jammu and Kashmir. The talks between the BJP and the PDP have not yielded any results yet with the latter continuing to keep up the suspense. At this moment, both parties do not want to appear to be giving away too much and have held their cards close to their hearts. BJP sources told OneIndia that that during the recently held talks, the PDP was assured of a financial package for the state and also the transfer of some Centre-run power projects to the state. The PDP, however, is yet to reciprocate on these assurances and continues to raise the demands. What does PDP want? The PDP has not said in clear terms that they have agreed to the assurances given by the BJP. The PDP has also not indicated whether it is ready to face the elections. The PDP now wants to involve Pakistan in a sustained dialogue where the Kashmir peace process is concerned. On the other hand, the PDP despite being assured, has sought economic initiatives. PDP leader Mehbooba Mufti has also said that there needs to be more initiative taken by the centre so that jobs are created in the state. She feels it is unemployment that is leading the youth towards militancy. She said that she is keeping in mind the honour and welfare of the people of Jammu and Kashmir. BJP leaders said they have put forth their point and the ball now is in the court of the PDP. The BJP does not want give away too much as it could affect their vote-bank in the Jammu region. We are awaiting a signal from her, the BJP leader said while also adding that they are hopeful of a positive response. OneIndia News JNU: ABVP now stresses on unipole hoarding of Indian Army proposed to be erected at campus India oi-Shreyas New Delhi, Feb 29: The ABVP from the heated up JNU campus now stresses the Vice Chancellor to know about the status of unipole hoarding of the Indian Army that was proposed to be erected in the campus. The letter drafted (available with OneIndia) on Feb 29, 2016 by the Joint Secretary of the JNU Students Union, Saurabh Kumar Sharma and sent to the Vice Chancellor (VC), inquired on the status of erecting unipole hoarding of providing avenues open for recruitment of the Indian Army apart from motivation. Saurabh is a member of the ABVP. The letter said "we know from our reliable sources that there was a proposal of installing one unipole hoarding at the campus of Jawaharlal Nehru University which was requested by the Directorate of Integrated headquarter of Ministry (Army) in the last year sensitising the students about the avenues open for the recruitment in the Indian Army apart from motivation." The letter further said the concern is also related to the students in timely dissemination of information regarding employment in the Indian Army. Saurabh Kumar asked the (VC) through the letter- "I want to know at what ground it has not been erected till today?. The JNUSU leader also requested the VC to look into this matter as soon as possible. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, February 29, 2016, 21:15 [IST] Dhanteras 2022: How much gold can you buy from Dubai JNU row: Police custody of Khalid, Bhattacharya extended by a day India oi-Vicky New Delhi, Feb 29: The police custody of JNU students, Umar Khalid and Anirban Bhattacharya has been extended by another day. Both students are being probed by the special cell of the Delhi police on sedition charges after they had allegedly organised a pro Afzal Guru event in which anti national slogans were raised. A Delhi court which heard the application by the police extended custody by another day. The Delhi police told the court that they needed them in custody as the investigations were still on. The police said that they are in the process of identifying more persons alleged to be involved in the event and hence needed more time to interrogate the duo. (How Umar Khalid became the face of the JNU protest) On Saturday, the court had granted the police two days custody of Khalid and Bhattacharya. The Delhi police had sought for seven days custody, but that was not granted by the court. Both Bhattacharya and Khalid are being questioned in connection with the February 9th event held at the JNU. The event held to celebrate the martyrdom of Afzal Guru also witnessed anti-Indian slogans being raised. While the police arrested JNU student leader Kanhaiya Kumar, they had issue a look out notice against Khalid and Bhattacharya. However, the duo surrendered before the police last week. The police say that they have admitted to organising the event but denied the anti India sloganeering. The police are also on the look out for 20 more persons who are believed to have been part of the crowd which raised the anti India slogans. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, February 29, 2016, 17:03 [IST] JNU row: Rahul Gandhi , Arvind Kejriwal booked under sedition charges India oi-Mukul New Delhi, Feb 29: Congress vice president Rahul Gandhi could be in trouble soon. Reportedly he has been booked under sedition charges in connection with the JNU row. Along with Rahul Gandhi, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal and CPI(M) General Secretary Sitaram Yechury have also been charged under the same. Case was registered on a complaint filed by lawyer Janardhan Goud. Police said that an FIR has been registered against Rahul, Kejriwal, Yechury, Congress leaders Anand Sharma and Ajay Maken, CPI leader D Raja, JD(U) Spokesperson KC Tyagi, JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar and JNU research scholar Umar Khalid on the order of a court here. "It is a court referred case related to JNU, Dedlhi. Based on the directive of the court, a case has been registered yesterday against nine persons, including Rahul Gandhi, Arvind Kejriwal, Sitaram Yechury, JNUSU president Kanhaiya Kumar and others on charges of sedition under Section 124(A) of IPC," DCP, LB Nagar, Tafseer Iqubal, said. "It may be forwarded to the concerned police station in Delhi. We are in the process of taking legal opinion with regard to the jurisdiction," he said. The court has posted the matter for hearing on March 4. In his petition, Goud said Rahul and other leaders, despite being aware that Delhi Police had registered a case against Kanhaiya on charge of sedition had visited JNU campus and knowingly supported them and hence it "amounted to sedition". Kanhaiya and Khalid, who have earlier been arrested in Delhi on sedition charge, have also been booked here on the same charge. Goud had filed a complaint in the court of Metropolitan Magistrate here on Thursday, seeking its direction to police for registration of a case against Kanhaiya and Khalid for allegedly raising anti-India and pro-Afzal Guru slogans on JNU campus and others. In his petition, Goud said he has every right to question those who are indulging in "anti-national activities and also those who are encouraging anti-nationals in the name of solidarity for those who are facing criminal charges under section 124(A) of IPC." In Delhi, Congress reacted sharply to the development, accusing BJP & allies of wanting to "suppress every voice that speaks against their repressive anti-dalit & poor policies. "From Rohit Vemula to Rahul Gandhi, everyone who raises an opinion against suppression of opinion by Modi government is branded as anti-national," Randeep Surjewala, chief spokesperson of the party, said. OneIndia News (With inputs from PTI) For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, February 29, 2016, 10:53 [IST] Dhanteras 2022: How much gold can you buy from Dubai Middle class 'cheated', farmers deprived: Kejriwal on Budget India oi-PTI New Delhi, Feb 29: The Union Budget does not address the concerns of the farmers and the middle class, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal today said, accusing the Narendra Modi government of "cheating" them while questioning the black money amnesty scheme. Kejriwal, who is campaigning for the upcoming Punjab Assembly polls, claimed that loans of industrialists have been "waived" in the Budget and wondered why a similar relief has "not been" extended to the farmers. "The budget has nothing for farmers in distress who are are committing suicides. Farmers are reeling under huge debt. Loans of industrialists have been waived but not that of farmers. Nothing for middle class in this budget. Modi govt cheated middle class which votes for them," he said in a series of tweets. Kejriwal also sharply reacted to the Centre's four-month compliance window for domestic black money holders for them to come clean by paying tax and penalty of 45 per cent, saying BJP had proposed "enforcement" measures instead. "BJP vowed to bring back black money through enforcement, not through amnesty schemes. This is what Chidambaram also did. What is the difference? "There's nothing for the treatment of farmers. Only opening cheap medicine stores will not help. There should be dispensaries in every village where treatment will be free," he tweeted. Finance Minister Arun Jaitley today said the Budget is aimed at improving rural infrastructure and increasing rural income as the biggest challenge to the economy is agrarian distress. He announced an allocation of nearly Rs 36,000 crore for the farm sector while raising the agri-credit target to Rs 9 lakh crore for the next fiscal. PTI Navy vessel with all-women crew arrives in Kochi India oi-PTI Kochi, Feb 29: Indian Navy's all-women crew vessel "Mhadei" has reached here. The vessel set sail from Visakhapatnam for her home port, Goa, after participating in the International Fleet Review and reached here on the night of Feb 27. Lieutenant Commander Vartika Joshi, a Naval Architect, was appointed as the first woman Skipper of Mhadei on February 8 just prior to the voyage from Visakhapatnam. She is crewed by Lieutenants P Swathi, Pratibha Jamwal (Air Traffic Control specialists), Vijaya Devi and Sub Lieutenant Payal Gupta (both Education officers). "The sixth member of the crew, Lieutenant B Aishwarya is an Engineer and is expected to join the boat next month," according to a Navy release here. The women officers are training to form an all-women crew that would attempt to circumnavigate the globe next year. Mhadei visited Chennai port before coming to Kochi. It would depart after a few days halt here. This is the first all-women crew to man any ocean-going sailing boat of the Navy. All the crew members are volunteers and are driven by their passion for adventure and a love for sailing and the seas, it said. PTI UK PM Liz Truss resigns after 45 days in office, successor to be elected next week PM Modi to embark on three-nation visit March end India oi-IANS By Ians English New Delhi, Feb 29: Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a three-nation visit on March 30 during which he will hold a bilateral summit with the EU in Brussels, attend the Nuclear Security Summit in Washington, and become the first Indian prime minister to go to Saudi Arabia in six years. Modi will visit Brussels on March 30 for the first India-European Union (EU) summit in four years. EU Ambassador to India Tomasz Kozlowski said in a media interaction in December that India was an extremely important partner for the EU and the new economic and social agenda of the NDA government was specially attractive. He however had noted that that the relationship has not met both sides' expectations despite the potential. With India being an important trading partner of the 28-nation politico-economic union, he said the EU was "really interested" in completing a free trade agreement with it. Modi had met presidents of the European Commission and European Council, Jean-Claude Juncker and Donald Tusk, on the sidelines of the G20 Summit in Antalya in Turkey in November last year. After Belgium, Modi will be in Washington on March 31 to attend the Nuclear Security Summit (NSS) amid much speculation that he will meet Pakistani Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif on the sidelines. The NSS is expected to be attended by the leaders of around 50 countries. Meet who is PM Modi's competitor on foreign trips On his way back, Modi will stop in Riyadh - a visit which assumes significance in the face of the current regional situation and strained relations between the Gulf kingdom and Iran, another strategically important country for India. Saudi Arabia is also home to nearly three million Indian expatriates, most of whom are blue collar workers. IANS For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, February 29, 2016, 9:03 [IST] Sharad Yadav slams 'hollow' budget India oi-PTI New Delhi, Feb 29: Slamming the budget as "hollow", JD(U) chief Sharad Yadav on Monday, Feb 29 said it provided no relief to tax-paying employees and an increase in the service tax will put additional burden on the common man "reeling" under price rise. "It is a completely hollow budget without any direction. An increase in the service tax again this year will put pressure on the common and middle class families. "People were already reeling under the pressure of price rise and further increase in service tax will disturb the budget of every common family, especially middle class families who have fixed income," he said in a statement. There has been no new relief in the income tax rebate for service class people, he said. Yadav also disapproved of allowing 100 per cent FDI in food processing industries, saying the domestic industry was already facing stiff competition. He said people of Bihar had a lot of expectations from this budget like a special package for the state and felt let down. JD(U) leader K C Tyagi also criticised the budget for its lack of roadmaps for the agriculture or rural sectors. "There is neither a roadmap for irrigation nor a Krishi Bima Yojna," he said, adding that there is 55 per cent non-irrigated land in the country. PTI Truth has come out, says Sasikala in reaction to OPS's remark before panel Jayalalithaa death probe: TN cabinet to decide on enquiry against Sasikala and others Never interfered in medical treatment of Jayalalithaa: Sasikala denies all allegations levelled by panel 'Amma Aalayam': Soon, a temple for Tamil Nadu CM Jayalalithaa India oi-Reetu New Delhi, Feb 29: After PM Narendra Modi, now a 'devotee' of Tamil Nadu Chief Minister J Jayalalithaa has said that soon a temple dedicated to her will come up near Vellore in Tamil Nadu. The temple is said to be named 'Amma Aalayam'. According to a Zeenews report, "This temple is the brain child of 37-year-old AP Srinivasan. An active member of AIADMK, Srinivasan is the MGR youth wing joint secretary of Virugambakkam constituency. The temple will come on a 1,200 sq feet of land owned by him in Iyeppedu village, 60km from Vellore and is estimated to cost Rs 50 lakhs. 'Amma Aalayam' will house a six-foot-tall bronze statue of Jayalalithaa, besides showcasing her life and achievements." Jayalalithaa DA case hangs on mathematics in Supreme Court Statues of former chief ministers CN Annadurai and MG Ramachandran will also be installed outside the sanctum sanctorum. Earlier, news came that supporters of Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Rajkot have built a temple for him. The temple, with a bust of Modi in the sanctum, stands on Kothariya road in Rajkot. "It is a first of its kind in Gujarat, temple of a living person," said Jayesh Patel, leader of Om Yuva Group. More than 350 members of the group joined hands to construct it by collecting small donations and now planned to conduct daily worship there, he said. "Members of our organisation have been worshipping Modi as God from the time he contested his first Assembly election from Rajkot and became the Chief Minister of Gujarat," Patel said. "We are very much impressed by the work he did as the Chief Minister and the work he is doing now as the Prime Minister, so we decided to construct a temple for him. "Initially we had placed a framed photo. Now we have installed an idol, spending Rs 1.7 lakh," Patel said, adding, that altogether the construction costs around Rs seven lakh. "Our members, earning from five thousand to fifteen thousand rupees a month, contributed," he said. OneIndia News (With inputs from agencies) Supreme Court refuses to hear for now contempt plea in JNU row India oi-Vicky By Vicky The Supreme Court has declined to hear a criminal contempt plea filed against three persons in connection with the JNU row in which pro-Afzal Guru events were held. The matter was mentioned before a Bench headed by the Chief Justice of India, T S Thakur. It may be recalled that even the Attorney General of India had declined to give his consent to a petition seeking the Supreme Court to initiate contempt proceedings in the JNU row case. The argument by the petitioner is that criticising the hanging of Afzal Guru amounts to criticising the order of the Supreme Court which had upheld his conviction in the Parliament attack case. The petitioner sought action against the students and also S A R Geelani for raising anti-India slogans during an event and also condemned the judiciary for the hanging of 2001 Parliament attack convict Afzal Guru. The petitioner had initially sought that the matter be heard on February 22, but the Bench had declined the request. The petitioner contended that the matter should be heard urgently as the protests were spreading like wild fire across the country. In matters of contempt unless taken up suo-motu by the Supreme Court, the mandate is that the nod of the AG has to be sought. Under Rule 3 (c) of the Rules to Regulate Proceedings for Contempt of the Supreme Court, 1975, a petition filed by a third person alleging contempt should receive prior consent of the Attorney-General or the Solicitor-General in writing before the court takes action. The AG had however declined consent. The AG however did not spell out any reason before declining his consent. For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, February 29, 2016, 11:20 [IST] Dhanteras 2022: How much gold can you buy from Dubai Arun Jaitley presents Union Budget 2016: Here's how Twitter reacted India oi-Avinash New Delhi, Feb 29: Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley proposed his 3rd consecutive Union Budget on the floor of the Lok Sabha and focused over empowerment of rural areas. Union Budget 2016: Highlights However, the highly anticipated change in income tax slab was not introduced by finance minister. Arun Jaitley listed 'nine pillars' including tax reforms, promoting ease of doing business and ensuring fiscal discipline, that will transform India. Unveiling the Budget 2016-17, he said the pillars also include emphasis on governance reforms. The government, Jaitley said, will also focus on infrastructure investment, financial sector reforms, fiscal discipline and tax reforms to reduce compliance burden. Here is how people reacted over social media: Modi govt walks the talk. Thank you @narendramodi ji and @arunjaitley ji for giving a visionary budget in difficult times.#Budget2016 Devendra Fadnavis (@Dev_Fadnavis) February 29, 2016 Markets in green now, will RBI cut rates in the next couple of days since gov't has stuck to fiscal consolidation plan? #Budget2016 Krishna Merchant (@KrishnaMerchant) February 29, 2016 All major CII recommendations have been covered in #Budget2016.~Sunil Munjal, Chair, Hero Corporate Service Limited pic.twitter.com/dRnKw5QXaR CII (@FollowCII) February 29, 2016 So I applaud the focus on farmers from the start. And particularly, not just on handouts but on rural infrastructure,irrigation,insurance anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) February 29, 2016 Subsidy to take LPG to BPL families a brilliant move. It will also do more to cleanse our air than any odd-even Tamasha/tokenism #Budget2016 Shekhar Gupta (@ShekharGupta) February 29, 2016 This the most political budget speech in yrs yet. Tone echoes a hard Agro-povertarian swing. The govt seems losing nerve early #Budget2016 Shekhar Gupta (@ShekharGupta) February 29, 2016 Leaving out beedis from increases taxes on tobacco is big nonsensical decision just because BJP MPs & netas are beedi barons?#Budget2016 loner (@sane_voices) February 29, 2016 Guess opposition leaders busy chatting rather than listening because they're planning to oppose, say bad #Budget2016 regardless of details? Tanvi Madan (@tanvi_madan) February 29, 2016 Yo! Makes the names of these schemes more friendly. It's frustrating to hear really long, insert name of national leader, yojana #Budget2016 Priya Ravichandran (@binaryfootprint) February 29, 2016 100 CRORE RUPEES for anniversary of Deen Dayal Upadhyay and Guru Gobind commemoration. Fancy parties planned? #Budget2016 Rishika Baruah (@rishika625) February 29, 2016 Govt has nothing left for the middle class, not even cigarettes, bidi only to live upon plus Rs. 250/month. Perfect with my DP. #Budget2016 (@BhawalSubhajit) February 29, 2016 All smokers upset with hike in tax on tobacco products should switch to taxfree. Bidis. #Budget2016 Sumit (@_RKSumit) February 29, 2016 Cars, tobacco, alcohol, gold, diamond, costlier but no change in income tax slab #Budget2016 Amit.A (@Amit_smiling) February 29, 2016 Rs 55,000 crore for roads & highway and a total of Rs 97,000 crore for new roads. #Budget2016 pic.twitter.com/wOACjAKs3g Dr. Sridhar Rao (@microrao) February 29, 2016 OneIndia News International news brief: Trump rape accuser plans suit under new NY 'survivors' law and more Fact Check: Did Trump thank Musk for welcoming him back to Twitter Donald Trump 'misquotes' Mahatma Gandhi in Instagram post International oi-PTI Washington, Feb 29: Republican presidential front runner Donald Trump on Monday posted a quote on Instagram attributing it to Mahatma Gandhi, but the American media said there is no evidence that the Indian leader had ever used these words. "First they ignore you. Then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win Mahatma Gandhi," Trump wrote on social networking site Instagram as part of his effort to rally supporters. Donald Trump retweets Mussolini quote, sparks controversy The Instagram post included a picture of hordes of supporters rallying at a Trump campaign stop in Alabama. Soon, the anti-Trump lobby was up in flames on the social media. The Hill, a top US political website, said, "There's no record that Gandhi ever used the phrase, which has been widely attributed to him." The quotation appears to be similar to words used in a 1918 trade union address by socialist leader Nicholas Klein, it said. Christian Science Monitor has put this among the top 10 political misquotes. There was no immediate response from the Trump's campaign on the issue. "Gandhi did not say this," one Scott T Smith wrote on twitter. Trump sought to quote Gandhi a day after he was criticised for re-tweeting Italian fascist leader Benito Mussolini early Sunday morning. "He got tired of quoting Mussolini and he's saving the Hitler quotes until he's really desperate," tweeted Brad Fraser. Several popular websites have attributed this quote -- First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win to Mahatma Gandhi. According to Wikiquotes, this is the quote which is often misattributed to Mahatma Gandhi. PTI Donald Trump retweets Mussolini quote, sparks controversy International oi-PTI Washington, Feb 29: Republican presidential front- runner Donald Trump again stirred up controversy after he retweeted words attributed to Italian dictator Benito Mussolini and then defended his action saying it was a "very good quote". "@ilduce2016: 'It is better to live one day as a lion than 100 years as a sheep,' @realDonaldTrump #MakeAmericaGreatAgain," the Republican front-runner shared from a parody Twitter account. The website Gawker claimed credit for creating the parody account about Il Duce, which translates to 'the leader' in Italian. The Gawker website said it had created "a Twitter bot that would post quotes from the writings and speeches of... Mussolini" at Trump until he eventually retweeted one yesterday. The parody account's profile picture is a composite of Trump's hair and Mussolini's face. The 69-year-old reality TV star-turned politician, later told NBC News, it did not make a difference to him whose quote it was. "It's a very good quote. It's a very interesting quote...I know who said it. But what difference does it make whether it's Mussolini or somebody else?" Trump said. Asked whether he wanted to be associated with Mussolini, he said, "No, I want to be associated with interesting quotes. Hey, it got your attention, didn't it?" Mussolini led Italy from 1922 until 1943. The fascist dictator led the country into war with the US in 1941. Some conservative critics of Trump's rhetoric about use of power, both in the US and abroad, have suggested that his declarations fall along the lines of fascist oratory. Trump is an avid Twitter user, and he often goes on posting sprees in the middle of the night or early in the morning. At times, his retweets have been questionable, including posts from accounts associated with white nationalists. Also yesterday, Trump appeared reluctant to distance himself from an endorsement from David Duke, a former senior leader of the white supremacist group Ku Klux Klan. He told CNN that he "didn't know anything about David Duke". Later, however, he tweeted a video from an earlier press conference in which he appeared to recognise Duke's name immediately and said, "David Duke endorsed me? OK, I disavow". Trump's retweet and remarks come ahead of the "Super Tuesday" showdown that will see primaries in 11 states and which the real estate tycoon's supporters say will seal the Republican nomination for him. It is not the first time Trump has shared controversial tweets with his nearly 6.5 million followers. PTI F-16 fighter jets imp for Pak's fight against terrorists: Sartaj Aziz International oi-PTI Washington, Feb 29: Pakistan on Monday said the proposed US sale of F-16 fighter jets to the country would strengthen its ability to carry out counter-terrorism operations and promote regional stability. "We appreciate the public assessment of the US leadership in response to Congressional inquiries that Pakistan has used the F-16s effectively against the terrorists in the region," Sartaj Aziz, Pakistani Foreign Affairs Advisor, said in his address to the opening session of the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue, which he co-chaired with US Secretary of State John Kerry. "The prospective sale of F-16s will strengthen Pakistans capabilities to successfully continue these vital operations for our mutual benefit and stability in the region," Aziz said as he praised Kerry's recent defence of sale of F-16, which is being vehemently opposed in the US Congress. "We are grateful to you Secretary Kerry for your recent positive testimony on the Hill," Aziz said. Last week, testifying before a Congressional committee, Kerry strongly defended the decision and argued these fighter jets are a critical part of the Pakistan's fight against terrorists. PTI Pak SIT on Pathankot attack likely to visit India soon: Sartaj Aziz International oi-PTI Washington, Feb 29: A Pakistani team probing the Pathankot terror attack may visit India in the next few days, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif's Foreign Affairs Advisor Sartaj Aziz said today and expressed hope that the Foreign Secretary-level talks will be scheduled very soon after that. "It is unfortunate that the agreement on resuming the dialogue process was disrupted by the attack on Pathankot Airbase on January 2. Pakistan court sends 3 Pathankot attack suspects to custody Pakistan has taken some important steps in the aftermath of the Pathankot incident," Aziz said in his opening remarks to the US-Pak Strategic Dialogue. "Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif called the Indian Prime Minister (Narendra Modi) immediately after the attack and assured of Pakistan's support in the investigation. National Security Advisers are maintaining frequent contacts," he said. "Case has been registered and the Special Investigation Team (SIT) is likely to visit India in the next few days. We therefore hope that the Foreign Secretary level-talks will be scheduled very soon," Aziz said during the US-Pakistan Strategic Dialogue which he co-chaired with US Secretary of State John Kerry. As an important part of Sharif Government's policy of peaceful neighborhood, Islamabad has reached out to India, he noted. "We believe that the resolution of all outstanding issues - including the Kashmir dispute - is possible through resumption of full-scale and uninterrupted dialogue with India. We had also proposed a mechanism to address our respective concerns on terrorism," Aziz said. A six-member Special Investigation Team (SIT) was set up by Pakistan government for the initial probe into the January 2 attack based on the leads given by India. Three men arrested for their alleged role in the attack were sent to a six-day police remand by an anti-terrorism court in Gujranwala city of Punjab on Saturday. The FIR by the Counter-Terrorism Department of Punjab police has been lodged on the basis of information provided by National Security Adviser Ajit Doval that four attackers crossed from Pakistan into India and attacked the airbase. The attack led to the postponement of a scheduled meeting between Foreign Secretaries of Pakistan and India in January in Islamabad. Since then, no date has been fixed for the talks. PTI From 'dangerous' to 'secure and confident': US makes a u-turn after Biden's comment on Pak The persecution of Hindus in Pakistan continues with a Hindu girl forcibly converted and married 'India won't listen to anyone': Anurag Thakur gives strong reply to PCB 'Vindication of determined efforts': PM Shehbaz Sharif on Pakistan's exit from FATF's grey list Pakistan hangs ex-policeman over governor's murder International oi-IANS By Ians English Islamabad, Feb 29: Pakistani authorities on Monday executed elite commando Mumtaz Qadri for the murder of former Punjab governor Salman Taseer in 2011. Qadri was hanged at the Adiala jail in Rawalpindi after an anti-terrorism court convicted and sentenced him to death in October 2011 for shooting Taseer 28 times in Islamabad's Kohsar Market on January 4, 2011. Governor Taseer had reportedly criticized Pakistan's anti-blasphemy laws, prompting Qadri to shoot him in broad daylight, Daily Pakistan reported. He had filed a mercy plea before President Mamnoon Hussain after Supreme Court maintained his conviction in October last year. Religious parties had threatened nationwide protests if Qadri was hanged. In view of a possible backlash, the president's family has been moved from Karachi to Islamabad. Strict security measures were taken within the jail premises and a heavy contingent of Law Enforcement Agencies (LEA) personnel were deployed to avoid any untoward incident. All routes leading to the jail were sealed. IANS What does the US actually want in Syria? US lawmakers' letter to PM 'unfortunate': India International oi-IANS By Ians English New Delhi, Feb 29: The government on Monday described as "unfortunate" a letter written by 34 US lawmakers to Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressing concern over violence against religious minorities in India. "It is unfortunate that these members of Congress while applauding India as a pluralistic society with a longstanding commitment to inclusion and tolerance have chosen to focus on just a few incidents," external affairs ministry spokesman Vikas Swarup said in a statement. "India is proud of its status as the world's largest democracy. The Indian Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all its citizens, including minority communities. Aberrations, if any, are dealt with by our internal processes which include our independent judiciary, autonomous National Human Rights Commission, vigilant media, and vibrant civil society," he said. In the letter dated February 25 and released to the media by the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, the 34 US lawmakers said that their strong support for the US-India partnership has encouraged them "to relay our grave concerns about the increasing intolerance and violence members of India's religious minority communities experience". "We urge your government to take immediate steps to ensure the fundamental rights of religious minorities are protected and the perpetrators of violence are held to account," the letter stated. "Of particular concern is the treatment of India's Christian, Muslim and Sikh communities. On June 17, 2014, more than 50 village councils in the Bastar district of Chhattisgarh adopted a resolution banning 'all non-Hindu religious propaganda, prayers and speeches' in their communities," it said. According to the US lawmakers, the ban "effectively has criminalised" the practice of Christianity by around 300 families in the region a day after a mob, including members of the Vishwa Hindu Parishad and the Bajrang Dal, attacked and injured six Christians at the village of Sireiguda. "Since the ban was implemented, Christians in the Bastar district reportedly have been subjected to physical assaults, denial of government services, extortion, threats of forced expulsion, denial of access to food and water, and pressure to convert to Hinduism," they alleged. Stating that they were also concerned about the "nearly country-wide beef ban", the US lawmakers referred to the killing of Mohammad Hasmat Ali in Manipur in November for stealing a cow and the murder of Mohammad Saif in Uttar Pradesh in September. The letter also called for recognition of Sikhism as a distinct religion as not doing so prevented practitioners of the religion "from accessing social services and employment and educational preferences available to other religious communities". "Mr. Prime Minister, we applaud India as a pluralistic society with a long-standing commitment to inclusion and tolerance," it stated. "We also applaud your statements about religious freedom and communal harmony, including your promise in February 2014 that your government would 'ensure that there is complete freedom of faith... and not allow any religious group, belonging to the majority or minority, to incite hatred against others'. We urge you to turn these words into action by publicly condemning the ban on non-Hindu faiths in Bastar district of Chhattisgarh, and the violent assaults and other forms of harassment against religious minorities throughout India," it stated, adding that steps should be taken against activities of groups such as the RSS. The letter was signed by Senators Roy Blunt, Amy Klobuchar, James Alankford, Al Franken, Tim Scott, Ben Sasse, John Boozman and Steve Daines and 26 members of the House of Representatives, including Joseph R. Pitts, Keith Ellison, Brad Wenstrup, Jim Costa, Trent Franks, Ted Poe and Mark Walker. In his statement on Monday describing the US lawmakers' letter as unfortunate, Swarup reiterated that the Indian government was "fully committed to the constitutional principles which underpin the nation of 1.25 billion people as a multi-ethnic and multi-religious society". IANS Bengal polls 2016: Central forces arrive in state even before dates are announced Kolkata oi-Shubham Kolkata, Feb 29: Central forces started arriving in West Bengal, the state which will go to Assembly elections in a few months, on Monday. Two companies of forces reached Kolkata, the state capital, and Raiganj in North Dinajpur district during the day. The personnel were also seen conducting flag march in various parts of the city. The company of personnel which has arrived in Kolkata will familiarise itself with 17 Assembly constituencies in Kolkata, the sources added. In an unprecedented move, the authorities decided to deploy as many as 200 companies of Central Para Military Forces to the state on the first week of March, even before the dates of the elections have been announced. West Bengal Police authorities said they received a notification from the Ministry of Home Affairs specifying that 100 companies of CRPF will reach the state on March 1. Another 100 companies of central forces will reach the state on March 7, the police authorities said. MHA sources said the central forces would be deployed across the state, which is known for political violence, to get full control of the administration ahead of the polls. Two-hundred and ninety-four seats of West Bengal will go to polls in a multi-phase election in April and May. Oneindia News Budget 2016: Jaitley makes NDA's highest allocation for MGNREGA despite Modi's dig at scheme New Delhi oi-Shubham New Delhi, Feb 29: Union Finance Minister Arun Jaitley on Monday allocated Rs 38,500 crore to MGNREGA (Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act), which is the highest ever by an NDA government. In the 2015-16 Budget, Jaitley had earmarked Rs 34,699 crore for the scheme, while promising to enhance the allocation by another Rs 5,000 crore given there is tax buoyancy. Follow Budget 2016-17 One can't suddenly shift from social responsibility to Thatcher-like reforms, says Jaitley Budget allocation for MGNREGA over the years (in graph) It is quite an irony that Jaitley increased the allocation for the MGNREGA, a scheme which promises hundred days of employment each year to every rural household and completed a decade this month. In the past, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had mocked the MGNREGA as a "living monument" of the Congress-led UPA government which had implemented it 10 years ago. He also told the Opposition in Parliament once that he understands politics well and would keep the scheme alive to remind people of the Congress's legacy. But it looks his government finds the MGNREGA a more useful tool to reach out to people than not. Though Opposition parties and activists accused the government of trying to dilute the scheme, the NDA government claimed earlier this month that it had transformed the rural job scheme which was in a pathetic state under the UPA because of reduction of funds. Jaitley had told that the scheme underwent changes during the NDA's time and new avenues were being found to raise allocation of funds for the scheme so that people ultimately benefited. The highest-ever allocation of funds for MGNREGA occurred in the budget of 2010-11, when Rs 40,0100 crore were earmarked. In the 2011-12 fiscal, Rs 40,00 crore were earmarked. Oneindia News Dhanteras 2022: How much gold can you buy from Dubai Missing Dutch national found after Sushma Swaraj orders Uttarakhand govt New Delhi oi-Sandra New Delhi, Feb 29: A day after External Affairs minister Sushma Swaraj asked the Uttarakhand government to trace a missing Dutch national, Swaraj on Monday tweeted that the woman was found. Swaraj tweeted: "My officers have located the missing Dutch girl Sabine Harmes. She is presently in Swatantra Ashram, Rishikesh. Our Regional Passport Dehradun has met her. She appears to be mentally disturbed." My officers have located the missing Dutch girl Sabine Harmes. pic.twitter.com/cnh43a26Xg /2 Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) February 29, 2016 She is presently in Swatantra Ashram, Rishikesh. Our Regional Passport Dahradun has met her. She appears to be mentally disturbed. /3 Sushma Swaraj (@SushmaSwaraj) February 29, 2016 She also added that the woman was had received treatment at the Nirmal and Jolly Grant hospitals for injuries on her legs. "We are informing her family/Embassy about this," Swaraj said. This comes after Harmes' family requested Swaraj to help find the woman, who was visiting India on a spiritual journey. Swaraj has in the past come to the rescue of many Indians stuck abroad and has successfully brought them back home. Her social media presence is often lauded by many. OneIndia News For Breaking News and Instant Updates Allow Notifications Story first published: Monday, February 29, 2016, 23:57 [IST] The controversy over anti-national sloganeering at the prestigious JNU campus continues to remain on the boil even as Delhi Police tightens the noose on students accused of sedition. Contrasting videos about Feb 9 event at JNU campus eulogizing Afzal Guru and other related controversies keep hitting the media day after day. Latest is this controversial video of Professor Nivedita Menon who is heard saying' "Whole world believes that India is illegally occupying Kashmir". Video courtesy : bhagat singh kranti sena Tollywood actress and Legend movie fame Swathi Reddy had a clash with her mother in Hyderabad's banjara hills police station. Her brief disappearance of created a sensation two days back. It started with a complaint from the actresss mother to Banjara Hills police that her daughter went missing from her home. As the cops got ready to size up the situation and made a few phone calls, the actress dramatically showed up at the police station. She said she was disgusted as her mother was harassing her for money. Community Its now easier than ever to connect and chat with others in your local area. You can connect with your community by asking general questions, give area updates and recommendations and even let your community know about local events that are taking place. by Graham Pierrepoint Just about every workplace the world over has some form of focus on diversity or equality after all, we live in enlightened times and while many corporations have an open policy on who they employee, thus encouraging diversity, Microsofts British wing are set to pilot an employment scheme for people who may have been previously overlooked in their attempts to secure work in the public sector. While diversity may conjure thoughts of gender, race, background and affluence, the corporation is now considering the merits of employing people who have been diagnosed as being on the autistic spectrum in a pioneering trial that hopes to improve the companys already diverse gene pool. Such a trial has already taken place in Microsofts Richmond offices in the US, according to the Daily Mail but this is the first time that such a scheme is to be piloted on British shores. The scheme aims to employee ten people either considered to be autistic or have Aspergers Syndrome, both of which are social afflictions which often restrict those on the spectrum from finding fulfilling employment. The trial will see employees scouted for across the country, with the potential for the process to be granted nationwide coverage depending on its initial outcome. The scheme will see a unique interview and training process designed to help ease those with neurological conditions into the job roles available, not only to avoid provoking such candidates but also to allow them to display their aptitude and why they feel they should be employed by the corporation. The scheme is a trailblazing attempt in the UK to increase inclusivity for those who are physically and mentally talented to work well with the company, but may find themselves restricted due to their conditions in standard interview and training environments. According to the Daily Mail, the UK charity The Papworth Trust also helps those afflicted with Autism, Aspergers Syndrome and other neurological conditions by offering support and advice on interviews, resumes and further training making the world of prospective employment a less daunting one for those facing daily battles with such conditions. With Microsofts US launch of the program already having been hailed a success, its UK wing is hoping to replicate matters, which may in turn inspire other big corporations to look into similar recruitment programs. OK! Magazine 21 Oct 2022 Taylor Swift's new song 'Would've, Could've, Should've' might be about John Mayer and fans are already warning him of the.. The law or road safety rules does clarify that vehicles are to stop at pedestrian crossings to allow movement of people according to National Road Safety Council Morobe Manager Lucas Kintau.But the law does not demarcate whether you can access pedestrian crossing only in the day or night time hence its not illegal to access public crossings at anytime of the day according to Mr. Kintau.Mr. Kintau said unfortunately for Lae city the industrial hub of Papua New Guinea accessing public crossings at night time is too risky.He said whilst the law states the purpose of accessing pedestrian crossing, these facilities in Lae is unsafe during night time and the risk is there once anyone steps out of their homes.He said unlike Port Moresby, all Lae city public crossings dont have traffic lights making it too risky to cross at nighttime.A concerned citizen of the city and Executive Officer of the Morobe Law and Justice Sector Francis Masiang reiterated that accessing public road crossings at night time in Lae city is risky.Mr. Masiang said at two instances he witnessed pedestrians almost run over by motorist in the night time solely blamed on public awareness of road safety standards and practices.Mr. Masiang further called on the NRSC to create more awareness to the public on the use of public crossings.He indicated that at the moment the never seen or no traffic light in the industrial hub of the country is dangerous for public.Mr. Masiang said he is submitting a report from the public perception to the NRSC and concerned authorities to seriously consider the plight of accessing pedestrian crossings at night.Mr. Kintau said the Department of Works is working on improving crossings in the city with new paintings.He said with the improved concrete city roads the city should also have improved crossing facilities.He added that the current scenario of the crossings in the city is risky and it all now comes down to common sense when accessing crossings.Dont use crossings in the night if you predict danger approaching or forthcoming, its common sense, said Mr. Kintau.Source: Post Courier Which States Are Most Likely to Legalize Online Gambling in 2016? Published February 29, 2016 by Elana K Only three states have legalized online gambling so far in the US; which states will join them this year? Since Delaware legalized online gambling within its borders in 2012, only two states have followed suit: New Jersey and Nevada. While the door has been open for other states to pass regulations, none have done so since 2013. But will 2016 be the year that other states do pass regulations? Lets take a look at the two states that are most likely to legalize online gambling in 2016: California California has a complicated relationship with online gambling, because there are so many different interests at play; card clubs, Indian tribes, and race tracks, to name a few. In fact, because there are so many different groups advocating for online gambling, they have been unable to agree on the best way to proceed, which has ultimately been why online gambling has never succeeded. However, because 2015 saw actual bills put forward, and because a number of advocacy groups have arisen dedicated to pressuring elected officials, 2016 looks like it could be the year that California legalizes online gambling. Pennsylvania Pennsylvania came heartbreakingly close to legalizing online gambling last year, but the proposed bill missed being included in the states budget at the last moment. But because Pennsylvania has mountains of state debt, they are getting more and more desperate to find new streams of revenue. Online gambling is an excellent way to bring money into state coffers, which is why it seems that Pennsylvania will take up the online gambling cause again this year. However, there will be obstacles, including a comprehensive gaming reform passage that certain lawmakers are trying to pass, which could put the kaibosh on the whole initiative. Additionally, lawmakers who are pushing for online gambling have not yet been able to decide on a set tax rate; they will need to get their act together if any bill is to be passed. What Does the Future Hold? Other states that have promising approaches to online gambling include New York and Massachusetts, but only time will tell how this issue plays out on both a state level and federal level. A 3-year-old girl has gone missing on Sunday 24th February, 2019, after Church Service at Beulah Baptist Church, Ore in Ondo State Shes a pupil of Heritage Nursery and Primary School, Ore and was living with her mother at Federal Ministry of Works Quarters, Ore until her disappearance. Anybody with useful information with respect to her whereabouts should please contact 07035124784 or Mercy-Babs Communications (Omo Edema) on 08021177775, 08034489108 or the nearest Police station. Getting the highest number of votes in a state is not enough to declare a governorship candidate winner, the Independent National Electoral Commission has said. To be declared winner, a governorship candidate must not only get the highest number of votes, he must also win at least one-quarter of total votes cast in two-thirds of all the local government areas in the state. This is contained in the guidelines for the governorship election posted by INEC on its website. The commission said the collation officer for a state can only return as winner, any candidate who (i) has the majority of votes cast at the election; (and) (ii) has not less than one quarter of the votes cast at the election in each of at least two-thirds of all the LGAs in the state. The guidelines stated that Where no candidate meets the requirements of the majority of votes cast and the electoral two-thirds, as provided in 41b (i) and (ii) above, a run-off election will be organised by the commission within 21 days in line with the provisions of Section 179 (2) to (5) of the 1999 Constitution, as amended. In case of cancelled votes, the guidelines stated that the returning officer should not declare any candidate winner if the margin between the two leading candidates is less than the number of registered voters at the polling unit or units where votes were cancelled or did not hold at all. The commission stated that in line with sections 26 and 53 of the Electoral Act, a winner would only be declared after a fresh poll has been conducted at the polling unit(s) where votes were cancelled or did not hold at all. Share this: Like many young couples, Remick and Lisa Albitre were living on ramen and water and new furniture seemed out of reach. So, they started making their own to save money. It just hasnt stopped since that first ottoman, Lisa Albitre said, and they started building furniture for others as a hobby business called Artifex. Now the two want to share what theyve learned in the form of a cowork woodshop. Coworking is a shared but independent working environment. Unlike the typical office, coworking space is generally shared by people from different businesses who may not have an office of their own. The Albitres are applying that same idea to woodworking. Filling a need The Albitres realized there was a need for a woodworking space in the community when they started a Facebook page, www.facebook.com/artifexfurniture/, in June. It has grown so quickly, Lisa Albitre said. Remick Albitre said he doesnt know of any woodworking classes in the area and people started asking questions on the Facebook page. The Albitres then realized they had the answers and could help. Professional grade saws and tools are expensive. For a membership fee, Artifex Academy would give members access to top-notch tools and professional guidance. Remick Albitre said, while high-end tools arent exactly necessary for the person who just wants to build a birdhouse for the backyard, he certainly understands the value of them and wanted to make them accessible to new professionals and hobbyists. He equates the cowork woodshop to a gym people join a gym instead of buying the expensive equipment themselves and they have professionals nearby to show them how to use it. A professional woodworking school could cost $800 for four days. We want ($800) to cover an entire year with us, he said. All you have to do is show up with the (wood) stock. The Albitres are considering shop space in Mandan. Once they have the space, they plan to offer multiple levels of membership. There will be the professional level, which would give access to the woodshop during normal business hours on weekdays, and a hobby level, which would give hobbyists about 10 hours on the weekends. Theyre initial thought is, with the flex schedule, they could handle around 100 members. They see value to putting a bunch of woodworkers into the same space, giving members the ability to bounce questions and ideas off each other and learn from one another. Remick Albitre grew up around woodworking with his dad, who was a hobbyist. He said he and his wife want to reach the new up-and-coming hobbyist because thats when he needed the most assistance when he was learning. Weve been lucky in the people weve crossed paths with, Lisa Albitre said. I dont think we would be as successful without them. We want to be those people for someone else, Remick Albitre said. The cowork space would be organized with machines in a separate shop and a business area, where those selling their products, could make business calls. There also would be a computer lab with access to 3-D design software. Remick Albitre said quality furniture can built for not too expensive with the software because you go in with a list of how to cut the wood so as not to waste. Getting involved The Albitres moved to Bismarck from a small town in northern Nevada about a year and a half ago. Lisa Albitre said they believe in being committed to the community in which theyre living. In Nevada, they were involved with foster care but havent found a way to give back in Bismarck yet. They see the cowork woodshop as a way to get started. Were really into teaching people, Lisa Albitre said. Not only could they teach how to woodwork, Remick Albitre is attending business school, they have multiple friends who own businesses and, because of Artifex, they have their own experience to teach interested members how to start a small business in the woodworking field. The Albitres say the project could evolve into a woodworkers guild that would donate to charity maybe a bed to someone who wants to be a foster parent but doesnt have one for a child. They know first hand how that could be beneficial. Why woodworking? Growing up in a small town, the Albitres said everyone they knew always seemed to have the same things because there was only a few places to shop. We like things that are different, Lisa Albitre said. When they started making their own home, they didnt love what they were finding and thought what better way to fix that then to do it themselves. Lisa Albitre loves to design and Remick Albitre had always built things with his hands. He was a welder in high school and attended a performance arts school, where he helped build theater sets. He said he has a short attention span and being able to see progress on a project is what makes woodworking fulfilling. Getting started The Albitres started a GoFundMe page for the project to cover startup costs. the $45,000 would cover the cost of tools for two or three stations. Once the tools are purchased they will last for at least a couple decades, Remick Albitre said. Were basically asking the community, Is this (cowork woodshop) something you want? If so, help us out, he said. Theyll cover the other half of the costs the building and insurance. The Albitres said, even if they dont get to their fundraising goal, they still need the space for their own use with Artifex. Theyre getting busy enough that the single-car garage they use as a woodshop isnt large enough. In six months, if Artifex is making enough to cover a year lease, Remick Albitre said theyll lease the space and start inviting people to sign up as members and use their tools until enough money is raised to expand. We truly believe this is something that will be successful and will grow the woodworking community. We are currently working on a kickback program for people who donate, the Albitres wrote on their GoFundMe page. Komfie Manalo, Opalesque Asia: Diversified multi-manager and multi-strategy hedge fund Collins Capital has announced it would shut down its Collins Alternative Solutions Fund, a mutual fund that offered hedge fund strategies to retail investors, after suffering a double-digit losses last year and declining further this year. In a regulatory filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, Collins said that the fund was shuttered on February 19, as reported by Reuters. The company said, "The board concluded that it would be in the best interests of the fund and its shareholders that the fund be closed and liquidated." The hedge fund, based in Coral Gables, Florida, fell 12.5% in 2015 and lost 4.2% in January this year. Industry analysts are predicting more liquidations from mutual funds that are offering hedge fund strategies. Morningstar analyst Josh Charlson commented, "We are going to see more liquidations. If fund firms don't have a robust distribution network to attract assets and then the suffer a spate of poor performance, they will suffer." In 2011, the Hedge Fund Journal (HFJ) ...................... To view our full article Click here Komfie Manalo, Opalesque Asia: Hedge funds are looking for safe refuge from unfair European regulations, claimed Paul Marshall, CIO of Marshall Wace. Writing an opinion piece for the Financial Times, Marshall said that instead of being rational, the European Commission responded to the 2008 financial crisis by launching an onslaught on hedge funds while leaving the banks and their lobbyists mostly untouched. Marshall wrote, "Even shortly after the financial crisis, there was widespread agreement among regulators and central banks about its origins: an overleveraged U.S. property market and overleveraged banks. Hedge funds had a walk-on part, a small number of them as winners from the calamity, most as victims." In response to the 2008 global financial crisis, the U.S. has introduced new regulations, including the Volcker rule to limit proprietary trading of banks, while the British government introduced the Vickers proposals that created a firewall between retail and invest banking. As an added measure, the Federal Reserve also required banks to undergo stress tests since May 2009 and since then, the U.S. bank leverage has fallen significantly, he said. However, Marshall said that the EC has largely ignored the issue of bank leverage and instead pointed their direction towards the hedge funds. The commission introduced the Alternative Investment Fund...................... To view our full article Click here Killer Joe speaking for Bernie Sanders on Feb. 26 (Image by Rob Groce) Details DMCA On the day before South Carolina's primary, Hillary Clinton led Bernie Sanders 58-31 in an average of many recent polls, leaving an 11-percent undecided up for grabs. She went on to win it on February 27 with a 73.5-26 trouncing, though, indicating the undecideds -- and even a few previous Bernie supporters -- climbed aboard the Clinton caravan at the last minute. And one well-known Sanders advocate could be the reason why. On the evening before primary election day, Solicitor David Pascoe managed to get both candidates to appear at his annual oyster roast in Orangeburg. Both Clinton and Sanders addressed about 400 Democratic voters from the area, and in front of national media, too. And introducing Bernie Sanders was rapper Michael "Killer Mike" Render, who's worked with the campaign since November 2015. Speaking about a Black Lives Matters' interruption that occurred two days earlier at a Hillary Clinton event, Killer Mike said: "I will not vote for anyone that told a black girl to shut up or that she was being rude(.)" Here's video of Killer Mike's introduction: But Render's description of the incident that occurred in Charleston on February 24 isn't exactly correct. Ashley Williams, a Black Lives Matter protester, crashed a private campaign event bearing a sign that read "we have to bring them to heel," chop-quoting a statement Clinton made in 1996. "Will you apologize to black people for mass incarceration?" Williams asked. Unlike Killer Mike's claim, Clinton does not tell the protester "to shut up" or accuse her of "being rude(.)" Instead, she attempts to respond, but is frequently interrupted by Williams, leading Clinton to ask "Well, can I talk?" Shortly after, Williams' interruptions and harassment got her escorted out of the private residence by Secret Service. See that in Williams' own video: Williams isn't correct in her chop-quote assessment, either. The "bring them to heel" statement Clinton made 20 years ago was not against black youth, but against gangs that were moving into organized crime. "We need to take these people on. They are often connected to big drug cartels. They are not just gangs of kids anymore. They are often the kinds of kids that are called 'super-predators.' No conscience, no empathy. We can talk about why they ended up that way, but first we have to bring them to heel." Here's video of that 1996 address Clinton made at Keene State College in New Hampshire: Next Page 1 | 2 (Note: You can view every article as one long page if you sign up as an Advocate Member, or higher). RT @WebsterGTarpley: #NYT confirms #WaPo finding that #Warmonger #Hillary dragged #US into #Libya war to avoid perception of her weakness h at February 29, 2016 "The means of defence agst. foreign danger, have been always the instruments of tyranny at home." James Madison There is no doubt that if she were to become the first female president, Hillary wouldl, because of HER character, feel the need to prove herself with war. I don't believe that it is necessary for a woman to prove herself to be an equal to men by waging war, but I do believe that with Hillary's history, she would find a way to get the US into a war that costs the deaths of thousands of American members of the military, costing the US trillions of dollars. And GWB also got tons of GREAT assistance from Hillary who never saw a war she didn't vote for-- and promote. https://t.co/7q5X51fkPN at https://t.co/7q5X51fkPN Alison Spalding (@AlisonSpalding2) February 29, 2016 I believe that Bernie Sanders will do everything he can to stand up to and refuse to be influenced by neocons, neoliberals and military leaders who advocate for violence and war. I believe he will think about ways the costs of war can be invested in diplomacy, in infrastructure and education. Hillary won't. She'll make a statement, prove herself and betray the people of America because the bankers will loan money for the wars, munitions companies like Boeing, Halliburton, the latest reincarnation of Blackwater, Lockheed Martin and other big companies will have their hooks into her. "As a veteran of two Middle East deployments, I know first hand the cost of war," said Ms. Gabbard, one of the first female combat veterans to serve in Congress. "I know how important it is that our commander-in-chief has the sound judgment required to know when to use America's military power and when not to use that power. "As a vice chair of the D.N.C., I am required to stay neutral in democratic primaries, but I cannot remain neutral any longer," she added. "The stakes are just too high. That's why today I'm endorsing Senator Bernie Sanders to be our next president and commander in chief of the United States." "We need a commander in chief who has foresight, who exercises good judgment, and who understands the need for a robust foreign policy which defends the safety and security of the American people, and who will not waste precious lives and money on interventionist wars of regime change," "We can elect a president who will lead us into more interventionist wars of regime change, or we can elect a president who will usher in a new era of peace and prosperity." Representative Tulsi Gabbard stated: RT @goodinohio: A Vote for Hillary Clinton Is A Vote for Endless, Stupid War https://t.co/zNmjfjXSBS at https://t.co/zNmjfjXSBS Dane Herbst (@daneherbst) February 29, 2016 Maybe she'll encourage Israel to start something that she'll bring the US into to continue, forever, with Iran, Syria, Yemen, Turkey (after it's thrown out of NATO.) Who knows, as a chronic, pathological liar she's very creative. She could come up with a whole new collection of places to make war-- Venezuela (they have oil) Somalia, maybe one of the BRICs, since they're getting a bit uppity. RT @mkernohan: I read this placard as "Bernie Sanders wants to send Hillary to war". Syntax matters, people. https://t.co/HhIt8A8w0a at https://t.co/HhIt8A8w0a Prayingforsnowiain (@ibroadfo) February 29, 2016 Not to worry about this Hillary problem. She'll never get there. Her negatives are so high and the people are so angry, the winner of the general election will be someone who stands up to the establishment. It could be Trump, It could be Bernie Sanders, but Hillary will never get to be the war President it would be her nature to become. If it is her against Trump, she will lose and the opportunity to take back the senate along with the loss of the White House, Supreme Court nominees, and the hopes for the middle class in America. RT @ShaktiLila: .@GeorgeGalloway Interviews US Presidential Candidate @DrJillStein: #Hillary = #Warmonger https://t.co/2y4pHYmnCS https:/ at https://t.co/2y4pHYmnCS John Charles (@3075John) February 29, 2016 The appearance of the Republican presidential candidates Thursday night in Houston, Texas was described by CNN as a debate. But there was no actual debating, in the sense of a discussion of issues or the offering of contrasting political programs. Instead, viewers were confronted with a repulsive display of the degraded state of official politics in the United States. The three leading candidates -- billionaire demagogue Donald Trump, Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, and Senator Ted Cruz of Texas -- engaged in a barrage of name-calling, mudslinging, insinuation and insult that marked a new low in an already dismal series of such political freak shows. Rubio set the tone with a series of prepared attacks on Trump's business career, baiting him as an employer who hired illegal immigrants despite the real estate mogul's current posture as the arch-hater of immigrants. (Trump advocates deporting 11 million undocumented immigrants). None of the candidates criticized Trump's fascistic proposals to bar Muslims from entering the US or his support for waterboarding and other forms of torture. Trump responded in kind, insult for insult, and generally fell back on boasting of his personal wealth as the ultimate answer to all criticism. From there, the "debate" descended even further into the realm of reality television, with simulated rage, threats and bombast pitched to the most backward and demoralized elements in American society. Not only the candidates, but the CNN moderator, the reactionary pro-war hack Wolf Blitzer, and the audience, which responded to the verbal brawl with shrieks and catcalls, contributed to the demeaning spectacle. American bourgeois politics has never been particularly edifying. However, Thursday's spectacle marked a new low, a fact that was acknowledged even by some veteran media commentators. Bob Schieffer of CBS observed, "I thought things couldn't get lower than they'd already reached in this campaign. I mean, the political discourse, but last night it went even below where I thought it could possibly go. I mean, no discussion of the issues, but people arguing, screaming, hollering. It was like kids out behind the barn rather than a political debate." The degraded character of Thursday's event did not stop the media from treating it seriously afterwards, hailing Rubio's performance as a stunning political comeback. This was a prearranged narrative. The Republican Party establishment is belatedly trying to check Trump's momentum after his surge to frontrunner status, winning three of the first four contests and leading in most polls for 15 more statewide primaries and caucuses in the coming week. Senator Lindsey Graham, who pulled out of the presidential race in the fall after failing to attract support in the polls, told a charity fundraising event in Washington Thursday night that Trump's lead in the primaries and polling meant, "My party has gone batshit crazy." But the endorsement of Trump Friday by New Jersey Governor Chris Christie, who dropped out of the presidential campaign just over two weeks ago, is a signal that the "Stop Trump" movement is getting little traction. Trump is expected to sweep the Super Tuesday contests and is now favored to clinch the nomination before the end of March. The level of discourse continued downwards in the 24 hours after the debate. Rubio accused Trump of being a "con artist" and suggested that he had wet his pants during the debate. Trump called Rubio a "nervous Nellie," a "lightweight" and a "choker." Trump also threatened the media at a press conference, declaring that if he became president, "I'm going to open up our libel laws so when they write purposely negative and horrible and false articles, we can sue them and win lots of money" So that when the New York Times writes a hit piece, which is a total disgrace, or when the Washington Post, which is there for other reasons, writes a hit piece, we can sue them and win money"" One of the three, Trump, Rubio or Cruz, will likely become the Republican presidential nominee and potentially the next US president. The background of each of these individuals testifies to the decline in the caliber, even by American political standards, of the personnel advanced by the US corporate-financial elite to fill its most important government position. Trump is, as he endlessly proclaims, a billionaire, who made his fortune servicing the personal needs of the wealthy through hotels, luxury apartments, resorts and casinos. After a series of financial near-disasters, including four corporate bankruptcies, he cemented his position, both monetarily and as a celebrity, through "The Apprentice" and "Celebrity Apprentice" reality TV programs, in which Trump as CEO hired high-level assistants from a list of applicants. It was there that he perfected the bullying, blowhard persona that is currently on display at campaign rallies and debates. Cruz and Rubio are both first-generation Cuban-Americans who took slightly different paths. Rubio graduated from the University of Miami law school and went straight into local Republican politics, dominated by the fascistic anti-Castro exile milieu. He moved up from city commissioner to state representative before being chosen as House Speaker under then-Governor Jeb Bush. Cruz came from a Texas milieu of ultra-right Christian fundamentalism and went straight to the highest levels of the Republican Party in Washington. After graduating from Harvard Law School, he clerked for Chief Justice William Rehnquist before working on the House Republican effort to impeach President Bill Clinton. Soon after, he participated in the Bush campaign's efforts to halt vote-counting in Florida in the 2000 elections, which led to the Supreme Court's notorious Bush v. Gore decision handing the White House to the loser of the popular vote. Denied a leading position in the Bush administration, he moved back to Texas to become solicitor general. Even if you dont think you know what a shot reverse shot is, youve probably seen thousands of them. Tony Zhou, creator of the video essay series Every Frame a Painting, calls it the most basic thing we have in film grammar. Nearly everything you watch is going to be filled with it. Why? Because a shot reverse shot brings together, and often oscillates between, two shots: one shot, say of a character, and its reverse shot, taken from a camera turned around to face whatever the character in the first shot faces usually, another character. Most filmmakers use it as quick way to record dialogue, Zhou says. Keep the actors still, use multiple cameras, shoot ten takes, and then make decisions in post. But not Joel and Ethan Coen (the auteurs behind films like Fargo, The Big Lebowski, No Country for Old Men, and A Serious Man). In the new Every Frame a Painting video essay on their use of the shot reverse shot, Zhou finds what makes a Coen Brothers shot reverse shot a Coen Brothers shot reverse shot, including a tendency to film their dialogue from inside the space of the conversation, as well as to work with cinematographer Roger Deakins whoin a piece of interview footage Zhou includesdescribes himself as a man with a very strong feeling about lenses, and who for dialogue scenes prefers wide-angle lenses rather than long ones. These preferences and others result in a filmography full of shot reverse shots that feel both kind of uncomfortable, and kind of funny, a visual evocation of the Coen Brothers frequent use of isolated characters trapped in situations they really have no control over and because of the choice of lens and placement of the camera, youre trapped with them. And that setup gives them a host of options when they want to emphasize or even exaggerate certain qualities of the characters talking or the situation the story has put them in. It even allows them to show more of the setting in which that story takes place, whether snowy North Dakota, Los Angeles by night, 1980s west Texas, a 1960s Minnesota suburb, or any other of the regions and eras of which theyve so vividly made use. Add to that the kind of snappy editing rhythm that can make their movies dialogue itself so memorable, and you may never feel satisfied by other filmmakers shot reverse shots again. Related Content: Every Frame a Painting Explains the Filmmaking Techniques of Martin Scorsese, Jackie Chan, and Even Michael Bay The Art of Making Intelligent Comedy Movies: 8 Take-Aways from the Films of Edgar Wright The Geometric Beauty of Akira Kurosawa and Wes Andersons Films Watch the Coen Brothers TV Commercials: Swiss Cigarettes, Gap Jeans, Taxes & Clean Coal Based in Seoul, Colin Marshall writes and broadcasts on cities, language, and style. Hes at work on a book about Los Angeles, A Los Angeles Primer, the video series The City in Cinema, the crowdfunded journalism project Where Is the City of the Future?, and the Los Angeles Review of Books Korea Blog. Follow him on Twitter at @colinmarshall or on Facebook. ZESTRON Europe expands its Team of Process Engineers ZESTRONs new process engineer: Bernard Frank www.zestron.com ZESTRON, the worldwide leading provider of high precision cleaning products, services and training solutions for the electronics manufacturing industry, is pleased to announce the addition of Mr. Bernard Frank to its European Application Technology Team.In his role as Process Engineer, Mr. Franks responsibilities include key accounts and customer care in Eastern and Southern Europe as well as in South Africa. Mr. Frank will also support customers in optimizing their cleaning processes by selecting the ideal cleaning chemistry supported by trials conducted in ZESTRONs Technical Centre.For additional information please visitHeadquartered in Ingolstadt, Germany, ZESTRON a business division of Dr. O.K. Wack Chemie GmbH, is the globally leading provider of high precision cleaning products, services and comprehensive solutions in the electronics industry. With seven technical centers worldwide, cleaning trials can be replicated to the processes conducted on customer sites.It is ZESTRONs philosophy to develop cleaning products that are innovative and unprecedented in the industry, thereby ensuring that our customers always remain one step ahead. More than 20% of ZESTRONs staff is dedicated to our extensive research and development programs, with more than 10% of profit reinvested in this sector. As the innovation leader, we are fully committed to providing the most cost-effective and environmentally sound solutions while meeting all other aspects of cleanliness, reliability and safety requirements.Franz WutzZESTRON Europea business division of Dr. O.K. Wack Chemie GmbHBunsenstrae 685053 Ingolstadt, GermanyTel: +49 0841 635-176Fax: +49 08 41 635-40Email: franz.wutz@zestron.com I hope you enjoy todays column you wont see it again on this day and month for another 28 years. Oh, well have another Leap Day four years from now, of course it just wont fall on a Monday again until 2044. In fact, this is the first time my little column has appeared on Leap Day since I started writing about the Internet in 1995. Youd think Id have something momentous to proclaim on this special occasion. I dont. Just the usual fare, Im afraid. As you may already know, we add a leap day, Feb. 29th, to our calendar every four years because the universe stubbornly refuses to abide by our manmade timekeeping systems. A calendar year, in general, should be in sync with the time it takes the Earth to complete one orbit around the sun. Which makes sense: A calendar should give us a sense of continuity and consistency the new year always starts in winter, Easter is always in spring, summer is always in June and so on. Calendars deal in whole numbers: A day is 24 hours. A year is 365 days. But the universe deals in fractions: The Earth orbits the sun in 365.25 days (specifically, 365.242189 days). And since the universe wont adjust to our calendar, we have to adjust our calendar to the universe. Our current calendar is known as the Gregorian calendar because it was introduced by Pope Gregory XIII on Friday, Oct. 15, 1582 (http://bit.ly/1OBvK41). Prior to that date, most people operated under the Julian calendar, which was introduced by Julius Caesar in 46 BC (http://bit.ly/1XQetuU). The Julian calendar has 365 days in a year and is divided into 12 months. It also has a leap day that is inserted every four years. Which averages out to 365.25 days. But that is a wee bit more than 365.242189 days. Over time, the Julian calendar gains one day every 128 years over the actual orbit time of the Earth. So, by 1582, the Julian calendar was 10 days ahead of where it should have been relative to the Earths orbital position. Enter the Gregorian calendar, which uses the same 365 day year and leap day every four years. But it also reduces the number of leap years every four centuries from 100 to 97 by using this rule: If a century year is divisible by 400, it is a leap year. Otherwise, it isnt. The effect of that additional change is that it will take 3,226 years for the Gregorian calendar to gain one day on the Earths orbit. Were good for another 27 centuries or so. A number of entertainers through history were born on Leap Day: Jimmy Dorsey, Dinah Shore, Ja Rule and others (http://bit.ly/1oF9vFg). And well-known people have died on Feb. 29: Pat Garrett, who shot Billy the Kid, and Davy Jones, of the pop group, The Monkees, among others. Interesting historical events have taken place on Leap Day: Columbus used the occurrence of a solar eclipse on February 29, 1504 to gain cooperation from the people of Jamaica. And the first arrest warrants in what would be known as the Salen witch trials were issued on February 29, 1692 (http://usat.ly/1QCmeyY). Theres an organization for people born on Leap Day: The Honor Society Of Leap Year Day Babies (http://bit.ly/1pdCFMc). More than 10,000 people have become members since the Web site debuted in 1997. Web retailer Zappos (http://www.zappos.com) is giving all the workers in its call centers the day off today in celebration of Leap Day. In fact, Zappos has gone a step further the company is pushing a Change.org petition to have Leap Day declared a national holiday (http://chn.ge/1OBvYZ2). So far, more than 5,000 people have signed the petition. Finally, there are hundreds of neat Leap Day quotes, observations, suggestions and more on Pintrist (http://bit.ly/1Upnz1V). The common thread through all the pins: Use Leap Day to do something special, unexpected, outside of your normal routine. Keith Darnay is the Tribunes online manager and has worked in the online world for more than two decades. His site is at www.darnay.com. Refresh, Revitalize and Rejuvenate with Pyara Spa & Salon as they Offer Spring Specials www.pyaraaveda.com WHAT: To celebrate the arrival of spring, Pyara Spa & Salon has an offer certain to cure those winter blues. Through the month of March, 2016, Pyara welcomes new clientele with $25 off any first-time AVEDA hair color service of $50 or more. Already a customer? Pyara is thanking its loyal favorites by offering existing clients 10% off their favorite liter sized shampoo and conditioner. Say goodbye to cold weather and saunter into spring with a fresh, updated glow. Offers are available at both the Cambridge and Burlington locations.Please note: Offer must be mentioned while booking.For more information or to make an appointment, please call 781.270.9200 or visitWHEN: Available March 1st March 31st 2016WHERE: 1050 Massachusetts Avenue | Cambridge, MA 02138 | 781.270.9200101 Middlesex Turnpike | Burlington, MA 01803 | 781.270.9200About Pyara Spa and SalonPyara Spa and Salon is AVEDA's Flagship Lifestyle Spa and Salon of New England. Offering exclusive Aveda signature services including massage, facials, body treatments, hair removal, cut and color and hair enhancement. At Pyara Spa and Salon, they understand that each individual is unique. Their goal is to design a personalized system focusing on preventing and maintaining balance and well-being. By merging ancient Ayurvedic philosophies with advanced flower and plant based technology, Pyara makes a personal investment in each individual on many different levels. Pyara Spa & Salon has two locations, one at 1050 Mass Ave, Harvard Square, Cambridge MA 02138 and in Burlington at 101 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington MA 01803. To make an appointment please call 781.270.9200 or email at contactus@pyaraaveda.com.47 Waltham StreetBoston, MA 02118 Madison Park High School and Whittier Tech take home first place in annual MRAEF ProStart Competition www.themassrest.org www.themassrest.org (BOSTON, MA) [February 26th, 2016] On Tuesday, February 23rd, 2016 Madison Park Technical Vocational High School (Roxbury, MA) and Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School (Haverhill, MA) were crowned first place winners at the annual The Massachusetts Restaurant Association Educational Foundations(MRAEF) Massachusetts ProStart Student Invitational (PSI).The high school culinary and management competition showcases the talent of the areas future chefs and restaurateurs. Madison Park won the culinary portion, while Whittier won the management portion. The winning teams will now represent the state of Massachusetts at the National ProStart Invitational, held in Dallas, Texas from April 29 - May 1, 2016. In addition to the National Competition, the first, second and third place finishers were awarded more than $90,000 in scholarship funds in support of their aspirations in the food and beverage industry.This was an exciting competition from the outset. All of the teams were very competitive and their hard work was evident. Madison Park and Whittier will be great representatives of Massachusetts and the MRA at the National Competition, said Bob Luz, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Restaurant Association.The win was particularly special for Madison Park, as this is the schools first year in the ProStart program. It is very rare for schools in their first year to even compete, never mind take home the gold. The entire City of Boston should be proud to honor Madison Park, the first Boston school to join and compete in ProStart, Luz added.Held at Mechanics Hall in Worcester, MA, the day-long competitions ran simultaneously as a live audience and representatives from colleges and universities from across the country looked on. Culinary students were asked to exhibit their knife and chicken fabrication skills before preparing a three course meal in an hour, complete with recipes, recipe cost and menu pricing. Management teams were asked to develop a proposal for a new restaurant concept including: defining the concept and developing a menu and marketing plan supported by a written proposal, verbal presentation and visual display.The panel of expert judges who volunteered their time and expertise were some of the states most celebrated executive chefs and restaurateurs including Andy Husbands of Tremont 647, Nick Calias of the Colonnade Hotel, Jose Duarte of Taranta Restaurant, Remon Karian of Fiorellas and Pat Bando of Boston College Dining.Our students work incredibly hard preparing for the PSI. The students and teachers spend many hours practicing, including after school, on weekends and during school vacations. We are very proud of all of our schools competing and are so happy for Madison Park and Whittier, said Stacey Sawyer, Director of the MRAEF.ProStart Graduate and Boston Chef Chris Coombs was on hand to announce and honor the winners. In the culinary competition, Whittier also finished second with Tri-County Regional (Franklin) finishing third, while on the Management side Greater Lowell Vocational School finished second and Tri-County Regional came in third.For more information on the MRA and the MRAEF, visitAbout Massachusetts Restaurant Association (MRA)Founded in 1934, the Massachusetts Restaurant Association (MRA) is a trusted not-for-profit association committed to the advancement of the foodservice industry in the state of Massachusetts. The MRA exists to help food and beverage providers succeed through education, cost-savings programs, networking, and government advocacy. Together with the Massachusetts Restaurant Association Educational Foundation, the MRA works to promote current and future industry leaders. Learn more at47 Waltham StreetBoston, MA 02118 Connected Skin Patches Ushering in a New Era of Personal Data http://www.greystoneassociates.org www.greystoneassociates.org (Amherst, NH) The ability to monitor movement, position, processes, physical parameters, analytes, and orientation using low-cost electronics in a small package that self-attaches to the data source is opening up channels to information that were not previously attainable. Stakeholders - researchers, caregivers, individuals, consignees are re-thinking fitness routines, therapeutic protocols, investigational project strategies, and business models to account for the coming availability of data that presents new opportunities for progress, improved outcomes, enlightenment, fulfillment, logistical optimization and enhanced understanding. Its disruptive technology that will challenge the way doctors relate to patients, drugs are developed and bodies are molded.The transformation from rigid electronics to flexible printed circuits is a journey that was forged in academic laboratories across the world. We are now experiencing the fruits of the efforts of numerous researchers who crafted and refined their methods and processes for many years even decades. The small, innovative companies that are working to commercialize these technology successes are at the forefront of the wave of connected skin patchesWirelessly enabled skin patches are detailed in a new and comprehensive report researched and written by Greystone Research Associates. Connected Skin Patches analyzes the market for wirelessly enabled wearable patches. The report includes analysis of marketed and development-stage devices, demand drivers, development factors, market considerations, and strategic and economic factors, and provides profiles of market sector participants.More information is available atSource: Greystone Research AssociatesAbout GreystoneGreystone Research Associates is a medical technology consulting firm focused on the areas of medical market strategy, product commercialization, venture development, and market research. We assist medical and healthcare market participants in achieving their business objectives through the creation of detailed development strategies, product commercialization programs, and comprehensive market and technology research and analysis. Our market research publications are designed, researched and written to provide timely and insightful information and data on focused market segments, with the aim of providing market participants with the essential knowledge to refine and execute their marketing plans and financial targets.Contact:Mark SmithGreystone Research Associates98 Route 101AAmherst, NH 03031 USAVoice: 603-595-4340Fax: 603-218-7020 Voices.com Member, BJ Shaffer, Voice of Pixar's Sanjay's Super Team BJ Shaffer The characters of the Oscar-nominated animated short by Pixar, Sanjay's Super Team, were not played by a cast of actors, but, rather, one voice-over actor.BJ Shaffer, a member of Voices.com, is the bi-coastal, professional actor and voice-over artist who voiced every male character in the Pixar film.Sanjay's Super Team is an animated short that served as a preview in theaters for Pixar's animated feature film, The Good Dinosaur. The short is nominated in the category of Best Animated Short at the 88th Academy Awards, taking place this Sunday, February 28, 2016.The opportunity to voice Sanjay's Super Team is notable, not only because one actor voiced every male character, but also because, typically, Pixar shorts do not have voice-overs at all, relying on unique and beautiful music blended with incredible visuals alone."I knew this was a very unique project and opportunity for me to not only get to be one of the lone voices in the short, but to also get to play so many different characters. Then, to find out that the project was nominated for - and is even a favorite to win - an Academy Award was the ultimate icing on the cake," says Shaffer. "Projects like Sanjay's Super Team are the reason I got into voice acting."Shaffer worked with several members of Pixar's "Super Team", most notably Creator-Director Sanjay Patel and Pixar's Dallas Kane.The opportunity to voice the characters for this award-nominated project came through the MDT Agency in San Francisco. After winning the role from an audition from his own studio in Burbank, Shaffer flew to Northern California to record with the Pixar team in December of 2014 at the Pixar Campus in Emeryville.Tune into the 88th Academy Awards this Sunday at 7e|4p on ABC to find out if Sanjay's Super Team will win the Oscar for Best Animated Short.About BJ ShafferBJ Shaffer - SAG name Brenton J Schraff - is a bi-coastal, professional actor, public speaker, and voice-over artist. He has worked in all aspects of the voice-over world from commercials, audiobooks, radio and TV promo, to business narration and cartoon/animation. BJ's work can be heard on television, in cinemas around the world, and on the internet. As an actor, BJ has been seen on multiple television shows and on stages across the country.About Voices.comVoices.com is the online marketplace that connects businesses with voice-over talent.More than 250,000 people from companies like NBC, ESPN, PBS, The History Channel, The Discovery Channel, Sony, Audible, Google, Microsoft, American Airlines, Toyota, Ford and GM as well as organizations such as the US Army and the US Government entrust the Voices.com online marketplace with their stories.150 Dufferin Ave, Suite 800London, ON, CanadaN6A5N6 Houston Attorney Named to Plaintiffs Steering Committee in 3M Bair Hugger Surgical Blanket Lawsuits http://fbtrial.com/practice_areas/bair-hugger-surgical-blanket-litigation/ http://www.fbtrial.com http://thetirelawyers.com/ http://www.fbtrial.com http://thetirelawyers.com/ Kaster Lynch Farrar & Ball helping lead more than 100 federal MDL cases nationwideMINNEAPOLIS After leading the way in lawsuits against 3M Co. (NYSE: MMM) over serious infections linked to the companys Bair Hugger surgical blanket, Houston attorney Kyle Farrar of Kaster Lynch Farrar & Ball LLP has been named to the Plaintiffs Steering Committee (PSC) for more than 100 related lawsuits consolidated in Minneapolis federal court.Found in hospital operating rooms across the country, the 3M Bair Hugger blows warm air through a quilted blanket to keep patients warm when they are under anesthesia during surgical procedures. The device came under scrutiny after its inventor, Dr. Scott Augustine, began raising questions about possible increased infection risks.Among the concerns is that the heat generated by the device creates convection currents in operating rooms, which can cause harmful bacteria to become airborne and fall into open surgical incisions, particularly during joint-replacement procedures.To learn more about 3M Bair Hugger litigation, click here:The appointment to the PSC means the Kaster Lynch Farrar & Ball legal team will continue its leadership role in pursuing justice for those who have suffered infections tied to the 3M Bair Hugger. The lawsuits, which share common facts, were consolidated in a federal multidistrict litigation (MDL) in December before Judge Joan Ericksen of the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota. The steering committee attorneys represent the common interests of all MDL plaintiffs and supervise, develop and prosecute any common aspects of the litigation.Kaster Lynch Farrar & Ball were counsel in the first two lawsuits over design flaws that resulted in serious patient infections after the Bair Hugger blanket was used in surgical procedures. Their important work helped pave the way for the cases to be consolidated.Kaster Lynch Farrar & Ball LLP is dedicated to helping those injured due to corporate neglect. The firm has extensive experience representing clients in product liability claims, defective tire and automotive defect litigation, pharmaceutical torts, personal injury cases and business disputes. To learn more, visitandFor more information, contact Robert Tharp at 800-559-4534 or Robert@androvett.com.Kaster Lynch Farrar & Ball LLP is dedicated to helping those injured due to corporate neglect. The firm has extensive experience representing clients in product liability claims, defective tire and automotive defect litigation, pharmaceutical torts, personal injury cases and business disputes. To learn more, visitand2501 Oak Lawn, Suite 650, Dallas, Texas 75219 214-559-4630 Top Secret Tips to Pay Less Income Tax in 15pages new 2016 Special Report by Top Experts at Stream Information Brokers! Breaking News! 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Our Top Experts on Taxes and Best Professionals with best expertise, know-how, trade secrets, longest experience and best taxes preparation skills offer best help businesses and individuals with the Best Fixes to their problems in and around Taxes!Mr.Steve PicklesStream Information Brokers P.O.Box667352 Houston,Tx77266-7352streaminfobrokers.comaccessinfobrokers.freeservers.com/streaminfobrokers@myway.com Adventure Travel at a new level: Alaska and Canada in a converted school bus Alaska and Canada in a converted school bus www.infiniteadv.com www.abenteueralaska.de www.viajes-alaska.es Infinite Adventures offers a new style of adventure travel by getting outside and enjoying the wilderness, but traveling comfortable in a converted school bus. Trips are between 9 and 58 days in the western USA, Canada and Alaska.Seeing a bear on your bucket list? Then you should consider Alaska or Canada as your next travel destination and check out the company's website at infiniteadv.comAlaska offers fantastic chances to spot grizzly, brown and also black bears. "Travelling the roads less travelled in British Columbia and the Yukon in Canada we saw 16 black bears in two days", says Stuart from London. "This trip should be on everyone's bucket list!" Venturing into the wild in a converted school bus means you have more space and it is more like a home for everyone: Bigger windows, spacious seating, viewing platform on the roof, and tables to play cards or write your journals.You dont want to go all by yourself and face a bear? Understandably so! Overlanding-style trips offer the right mixture of meeting lots of like-minded people, but having the freedom to make your own choices and being involved in the adventure: You can get the camp fire started yourself if you like to but you can also rely on your tour leaders organizing a bunch of stuff which you dont want to deal with on your vacation. And you not only get to know the culture of the country you are visiting but befriend like-minded people from all over the world.The company was founded by Natalie and Dave, a German-American couple with enthusiasm for outdoors and wild animals. "It has been an amazing adventure for us as well, starting the company, remodeling a school bus and leading the trips ourselves seeing bears, moose and snow capped mountains while making new friends from all over the world", so Natalie and Dave.Infinite Adventures offers adventure and group holidays in Alaska, Canada and the Western USA in a converted school bus. Get the camp fire started, spot bears and moose and canoe down a river.Infinite Adventures LLC809 W RiordanFlagstaff, AZ 86001USAops@infiniteadv.com ROYAL BAY THE PALM JUMEIRAH - DH350M RESIDENTIAL PROJECT ON DUBAI'S PALM JUMEIRAH LAUNCHED www.royalbay.ae http://Palm Jumeirah is set to host another luxury project as Azizi Developments on Thursday launched a Dh350 million Royal Bay Residence on the east crescent of the world's famous housing scheme.The new development, an exclusive collection of 90 fully serviced luxurious residential apartments next to Anantara Hotel, is part of the company's Dh4.5 billion development plan to build thousands of flats in Nakheel's Al Furjan project and Palm Jumeirah. The contractor for Royal Bay Residence is VICC.The project, to be built on 4,787 square metres plot with a construction area of 11, 246 square metres, will have 58 one bedrooms, 30 two-bedroom units spread over eight floors and two outstanding penthouses located on the 9th floor, offering the most spectacular panoramic views in the area and having its own pool and Jacuzzi.The company, which has already started construction and is expected to complete the project by March 2017, will initiate the sales process from Sunday."We plan to launch the sales of our new Royal Bay Residence project next week on Sunday. Starting price for one-bedroom unit and two-bedroom unit is Dh2 million and Dh4 million, respectively. There is a VIP sale on Sunday and Monday," Farhad Azizi, chief executive ofAzizi Developments, told Khaleej Times.ROYAL BAY, a sumptuous collection of fully serviced residential apartments situated on the crescent of Dubai's iconic Palm Jumeirah.SourceROYAL BAY, a sumptuous collection of fully serviced residential apartments situated on the crescent of Dubai's iconic Palm Jumeirah.Palm Jumeirah is set to host another luxury project as Azizi Developments on Thursday launched a Dh350 million Royal Bay Residence on the east crescent of the world's famous housing scheme.ROYAL BAY THE PALM JUMEIRAH - DH350M RESIDENTIAL PROJECT ON DUBAI'S PALM JUMEIRAH LAUNCHED Little Children Are Being Labeled For Profit Vancouver- February 27, 2016 - A video documentary produced by the Citizens Commission on Human Rights International called Dead Wrong exposes how devastatingand deadlypsychiatric drugs can be for children and families.Behind the grim statistics of deaths, suicides, birth defects and serious adverse reactions is the human face of this global drugging epidemicthe personal stories of loss and courage of those who paid the real price.Psychiatrists claim their drugs are safe for children? Once you hear what eight brave mothers, their families, health experts, drug counselors and doctors have to say instead, you will come away convinced of one thing. Psychiatrists are Dead Wrong.20 million children are labeled with "mental disorders" that are based solely on a checklist of behaviors. There are no brain scans, x-rays, genetic or blood tests that can prove they are mentally ill, yet these children are prescribed dangerous and life-threatening psychiatric drugs. Child drugging is a $4.8 billion-a-year industry.The psychiatric/pharmaceutical industry spends billions of dollars a year in order to convince the public, legislators and the press that psychiatric disorders such as Bi-Polar Disorder, Depression, Attention Deficit Disorder (ADD/ADHD), Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, etc., are medical diseases on par with verifiable medical conditions such as cancer, diabetes and heart disease. This is simply a way to maintain their hold on a $84 billion dollar-a-year psychiatric drug industry that is based on marketing and not science.Brian Beaumont, president of the Vancouver chapter of the Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR) said, Unlike real medical disease, there are no scientific tests to verify the medical existence of any psychiatric disorder. Despite decades of trying to prove mental disorders are biological brain conditions, due to chemical imbalances or genetic factors, psychiatry has failed to prove even one of their hundreds of so-called mental disorders is due to a faulty or chemically imbalanced brain.The Citizens Commission on Human Rights was established by the Church of Scientology to investigate and expose psychiatric violations of human rights.401 West Hastings StreetVancouver, British ColumbiaV6B 1L5 AW-Lake Company TRICOR Coriolis Mass Flow Meters Are CRN Certified for Use in Five Provinces throughout Canada http://tricorflow.com/coriolis-flow-density-meters/ www.aw-lake.com AW-LAKE COMPANY recently completed CRN registration of its TRICOR Coriolis Mass Flow Meters within five provinces of Canada including British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Ontario and Quebec. Each province requires individual registration and provides a CRN number.CRN registration certifies that the TRICOR flow meter product line meets high quality standards in operating safely under different working conditions. Registered under Category F for measuring devices within the pressure vessel code, the pressure-containing components with the TRICOR flow meter product line are now certified as meeting the ASME B31.3 code for allowable stress, when under pressure, as stated for castings, flanges and tubes.CRN registration certifies that our product is designed to meet requirements and safety codes built into ASME codes, notes Mark Iverson, General Manager of AW-Lake. If a product does not hold CRN, a user doesnt know what standards, if any, to which the product is designed. Most facilities operating in Canada that follow some kind of government guideline require equipment to be CRN registered.The CRN registration opens the door for TRICOR Flow Meter use in oil and gas processes, wastewater, nuclear plants, food and beverage processes and other applications within Canada where customers must specify equipment compliant with Canadian B51 standards. For example, government-run facilities within Canada, such as water treatment plant and hydro-electric power plants, can now specify the TRICOR Coriolis Mass Flow Meters as design requirements meet pressure vessel codes at stated working pressures.TRICOR Coriolis Mass Flow Meters serves as the workhorse of process operations, performing multiple measurements simultaneously with customizable process parameters and multiple communication languages. The all-in-one instruments provide for direct measurement of mass flow, density and temperature, with calculated measurement of volumetric flow. Mechanically balanced tubes and superior mechanical design provide for best-in-class density measurement.For more information on the AW-Lake TRICOR Coriolis Mass Flow Meters and models that meet CRN registration, visitor contact Marcia Reiff, Marketing Manager, at 800-850-6110, e-mail mreiff@aw-lake.com.AW-Lake Company, a TASI Group company, is a leading North American design, manufacturing and service company of flow measurement technology for the fluid control needs of various industries, including oil & gas, chemical processing, paints & coatings, hydraulics & pneumatics, food processing, and fluid power. Together with its European sister companies, KEM-Kueppers, Vogtlin Instruments, and LitreMeter, AW-Lake services and distributes a broad portfolio of flow measurement instrumentation throughout North America, South America, Europe, and Asia. For information, please contact Marcia Reiff, Marketing Manager, at 800-850-6110, e-mail mreiff@aw-lake.com, or visit AW-Lakes Web site at8809 Industrial Drive,Franksville, WI 53126 First Time Author Takes Kids on an Out of This World Adventure With Space Ranger Fred Space Ranger Fred and the Shoelace Adventure First time children's author Matt Newnham has published Space Ranger Fred and the Shoelace Adventure with immediate early successes and outstanding reviews.When 7 year old Fred Sanders is visited by his comic book hero, Space Ranger Zando Centauri he is taken on an adventure of galactic proportions and all to teach an old emperor on a planet in distant galaxy how to tie his shoelaces. By accepting this special mission Fred becomes Space Ranger Fred, the youngest space ranger in the universe.Space Ranger Fred and the Shoelace Adventure is a superb, self-published children's book that has had children and adults enthralled from the moment it hit Amazon. The book is available in ebook and print format on the Amazon platform and has received Five Star Reviews.Space Ranger Fred and the Shoelace Adventure is soon to be followed by Space Ranger Fred and the Umbrella Rescue.The amazing and unique illustrations by Richie Williams add to the story-line and encourage kids to use their imaginations further.Matt Newnham is a Writer and Author based in Cape Town, South Africa. This is Matt's first children's book and there are a number more now in the pipeline.Matt Newnham is a freelance writer and author58 Blue Mountain Village, Bournemouth BendParklands, Cape Town, South Africa Lisa Newton, Boogles Find Me a Bookkeeper is recognised and saluted in the Black Enterprise (BE) Mogul publication for 2016. LISA NEWTON AT THE BE MOGUL AWARDS BE Mogul is a new publication celebrating the contribution of black British business owners. On 4 February 2016 NatWest hosted the official launch ceremony in London where over 75 of the most innovative and successful black business owners featured in the BE Mogul publication were in attendance along with other VIP guests.The exclusive event highlighted and showcased the movers-and-shakers in the black British business industry from technology to law firms. In addition to the profiling of successful nominees, the publication highlighted the contribution that entrepreneurs of African and African Caribbean descent are making to the UK economy.Lisa, 35, London, Bookkeeping entrepreneur was delighted to have been featured in the publication and said Despite the recession and everything thats been going on - all businesses need someone to keep an eye on the numbers for them. We help clients to find a bookkeeper or get in help to have training in bookkeeping systems and we help bookkeepers to find work through our Work As A Bookkeeper franchise system.Mavis Amankwah, business owner of Rich Visions and founder of BE Mogul said: BE Mogul provides a platform for positive business role models, who may or may not have been recognised in the mainstream media, to inspire and encourage others. We want to shout loud and proud about the positive economic contribution black-owned businesses are making in Britain today.Daniel Thompson, Enterprise Director for NatWest, said: Entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of the UK economy and NatWest is delighted to have the opportunity to highlight and celebrate the important contributions made by the black business industry.For the first time ever, there are over 5 million businesses in the UK. Our research has shown that nearly half of Britons would love to be self employed, but are held back by the belief that there isnt enough support in their local area in terms of advice, knowledge and funding.As by far the biggest supporter of SMEs in the UK, NatWest is committed to identifying ways to help and support entrepreneurs. Working with BE Mogul will give us the opportunity to highlight the hard work and innovation demonstrated by these entrepreneurs while providing inspiration for budding entrepreneurs both in the black community and across the UK.Official messages of support for the publication also came from 10 Downing Street and Greater London Authority (GLA). The publication not was a triumph for Black businesses in general but also recognised the increase of Black women starting and growing their businesses in Britain today. Other highlights in the publication includes a Business Celebrity section that features and salutes CEO,MOBOs, Kanya King MBE and Entrepreneur Levi Roots (Keith Graham) as well a one to watch for 2016 second runner up of the 2014 BBCs Apprentice Bianca Miller.Notes to the editor Today there are many successful Black British entrepreneurs, some of whom have worked hard against all odds to make it. Unfortunately, theyre not always acknowledged for their hard work. Thats the inspiration behind the BE Mogul publication. BE Mogul aims to encourage this positive evolution by bringing successful black businesses to the attention of the mainstream media and the wider business community across the UK. 10,000 copies have been printed and distributed free from black-owned businesses across the UK. In the 1990s, the majority of black-owned businesses mainly served the black community, with niche services like hairdressing, food retail and catering. Today an increasing number of black entrepreneurs are running multimillion pound companies in mainstream sectors such as IT, financial services, property, media and fashion, as well as law, consulting, recruitment and other professional services. In London alone, there are 16,000 businesses owned by people of black African and Caribbean descent. Londons black-owned businesses currently employ 100,000 people and generate a combined annual sales turnover of around 10 billion.London based Boogles bookkeeping ltd, provide bookkeeping services throughout the London area. We can install accounting software such as quickbooks, sage or MYOB. And provide bookkeeping training. We can work on your site, or from our office. Part time, ad hoc, as and when.Boogles bookkeeping ltd230 City Road,London,EC1V 2TT.pr@booglesltd.com DL TOLLESON'S GENRE-CROSSING GRAY STOPGAP AVAILABLE IN HARDCOVER EDITION www.TheLighthousePress.com/GrayStopgap.htm www.TheLighthousePress.com www.DLTolleson.com MOBILE, AL (FEBRUARY 28, 2016) The Lighthouse Press, LLC announces that DL Tollesons techno-thriller, The Gray Stopgap, is available in hard cover for purchase online and through local bookstores.Debuting in 1999/2000 the novel engendered three Barnes and Nobel staff recommendations local to the authors home town. By the mid-2000s the novel was unavailable due to stock exhaustion and major logistical problems associated with the publisher relocating from Florida to Alabama.Our move coincided with the loss of everything necessary to take The Gray Stopgap to press, said Publisher Ron Richard. That disaster, coupled with inventory depletion, put the novel out of circulation. Bringing it back was always our intention, but the effort was fraught with unexpected obstacles.The obstacles were those facing novelist DL Tolleson, who the publisher contacted for a manuscript replacement.The manuscript was in electronic format, Tolleson explained, and corrupted with gibberish. I had to reconstruct it guided by the print edition. It took a long time.During the novels absence from titles in print, previous signed editions were occasionally offered by third party Amazon.com vendors at collectible prices ranging upwards to $500.Tolleson reports that when he contacted one of the sellers about the exorbitant price, he was told that it related to the scarcity of previous editions, particularly those signed by the author.True enough, Ive signed only a handful of books, Tolleson admitted, along with a promotional postcard that was my first autograph request. But still, I mean really, $500? Maybe for Clive Cussler, Tom Clancy or F. Scott Fitzgerald...Previous collectible editions aside, Publisher Ron Richard said that commitment to releasing the novel in hard cover is owed to the novels emotional appeal across multiple genres and its undercurrent of literary heft.Thats where the real value of this novel is found, Richard added. To be certain, its a techno-thrillera spy thriller. But at its core it is something more akin to a morality play. Thats a rare thing in adventure fiction.About the novel: The Gray Stopgap opens with an ill-fated experiment in bio-chemical synthetic intelligence orchestrated through flashbacks and reality. Playing out across international borders and ranging from deep sea rescues to sub-orbital dogfights, it is both espionage and techno-thriller. But it is also a literary sleight-of-hand where international intrigue is but a shadow cast by the emotional relationships central to the plot.The Gray Stopgap is now available at or through your local bookstores and online retailers. For more information, please visit,WEB SITE:AUTHOR'S WEB SITE:The Lighthouse Press, LLC is an independent publisher, previously out of Lighthouse Point Florida (after which the corporate name is derived) that has re-located to Alabama. We publish titles in fiction and nonfiction across all genres and represent established as well as debut, authors. Our titles are available at or through local bookstores and on the World Wide Web.The Lighthouse Press, LLCP.O. Box 9612Mobile, AL 36609PRESS: Mirabella Constantine/Public Relations LiaisonE-MAIL: Press@TheLighthousePress.com TCG Hamilton Makes into SiliconIndias 20 Most Promising BPM Companies of 2016 www.tcghamilton.com Gurgaon, India Feb. 25, 2016TCG Hamiltons growing leadership in the global credentialing industry received yet another thumbs-up recently, with its inclusion in the SiliconIndias 2016 marquee of 20 Most Promising BPM Companies 2016.The SiliconIndia list includes outsourcing services provider companies that have created smart and bold new niches for themselves within the rapidly commoditizing and cluttering BPM space and who are poised for sharp growth with strong firewalls against the long-term competition. All the 20 companies on the list are poised for global leadership in their segments soon through their ground-breaking value propositions in the BPM space.With a footprint spanning across 175+ countries, TCG Hamilton is the world's largest credentialing business conglomerate that designs, incubates, grows and commissions credentialing agencies and systems. Today, we not only offer the widest portfolio of certification products and credentialing solutions, we have also emerged as the worlds single largest and the only - provider of business and knowledge support services, proclaims a proud Rajiv Gupta, President & Group CEO, TCG Hamilton.Its mission to expand, strengthen, and enrich the phenomena, industry and impacts of credentialing, accreditation and certification across the world has been recognized the time and again. In 2014, it won Award of Excellence and also made into the list of the BRICS100 Fastest Growing companies (2014).The company owes its success to its culturally diverse knowledge workforce that hates designation-straight jackets and is phenomenally entrepreneurial. Therefore, employees here not only work out of the box but also create their own exciting real. Every employee is egged for designing their own roles and then break them even sooner. Echoing the same, Rajiv revealed, Stay updated to stay aheadits not mere a slogan but a way of life at TCG Hamilton.About SiliconindiaSiliconIndia is an 18-year-old Business and Technology magazine with a circulation of over 95,000 copies and their readership builds from CIOs, CTOs, CEOs and market influencers like fund capitalists, technology adopters, and analysts. Over the past decade, siliconindia.com has emerged as the most reliable source of news and information for professionals. It enjoys a global ranking of No. 4 in the category of IT News & Media. With more than 4 million registered user base, it is also ranked among the top 110 websites most trafficked from India.About TCG HamiltonExtending across 175+ countries, TCG Hamilton () is the worlds first, the only, and the largest provider of certification and credentialing solutions. The Group manages the value chain of several international certification bodies, and also custom-designs credentialing systems and large-scale workforce certification solutions for multilateral bodies (World Bank), ICT Authorities, governments, other leading global institutions and transnational corporations.We manage the delivery of 30 of the worlds most prestigious international certifications for professionals and enterprises including those of BPO Certification Institute (BCI), Talent Management Institute (TMI), Software Qualifications Board of America (SQBA), Big Data Institute, and Global Service Quality Institute (GSQI).TCG Hamilton India Ltd.Spaze I-tech park, Sector-49,Sohna Road, Gurgaon, Haryana - 122001Media Contacts :Praveen HandralContact No. : +91-124-6675161praveen.handral@tcghamilton.com Sparlion Logistics Experiments with Drone Delivery Sparlion Logistics www.sparlion.com Researching specific uses of drone technology, Sparlion Logistics is currently testing the commercial use of logistic drones, focusing primarily on its capacity to transport special items. The company is carrying out demo tests for drones to examine the efficiency of the idea.Drones have the potential to reach peripheral areas as well as the prompt delivery of items. However, limited battery life is one of the limitations which is being explored more closely.The drones performance was also tested under varied weather conditions to better address the need for prompt response during emergency situations. Supplying materials to remote areas after a calamity is one such necessity. Another area of opportunty is the prompt delivery of high priority consignments like laboratory tests. Use of drones will need to comply with local regulatory requirements too.Sparlion Logistics will be testing several drone vehicles to identify an optimal delivery distance and weight allowance under pressing battery limitations. Delivery of goods of up to 1 kilogram over more than 10 kilometres using a single battery charge is the existing expectation.About Sparlion LogisticsFounded in 2004, Sparlion Logistics is Dubai based and one of the Middle Easts leading logistics, transportation and cargo services company. Our highly certified team of logistics professionals ensures efficient delivery, reliability and a proactive approach to customer satisfaction. We assure clients of reliability, competitive pricing and prompt communication.Over the years, Sparlion Logistics has attained the reputation as being a trusted logistics & trucking partner throughout the region, including UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Iraq, Georgia and Turkey.We have had the privilege of serving some of the largest organizations, industrial manufacturers, property developers, FMCG companies, local SMEs, retailers and government departments.We operate industry pioneering technology and have some of the most experienced people on our team. Sparlion Logistics credentials and value proposition is unmatched in the industry.Sparlion LogisticsiRise Tower, TECOM, Dubai, UAETel: +9714 276 7334Email: sales@sparlion.comWebsite: Breast Pump Market Analysis, Size, Share, Growth To 2020 by Grand View Research, Inc. http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/breast-pumps-market http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/breast-pumps-market/request http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry/medical-devices The global Breast Pump Market is expected to reach USD 1.20 billion by 2020, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Increasing awareness about breast feeding and the need to supply mothers milk for a period 6 months to 1 year after child birth is a key driver for the market growth. Growing global population and rising birth rates in emerging and underdeveloped economies with large untapped opportunities are clear indicators of a constantly widening consumer base for breast pumps over forecast period.Working women, who are lactating mothers, are under stress due to the fact that they need to return to work place within weeks after the childs delivery, and at the same time they also need to ensure that the child is breast fed to grow as a healthy child. These breast pumps which enable mothers to retrieve and store the breast milk are an ideal solution, as they can manage their both professional and personal life. Furthermore, these breast pumps also address the needs of lactating women in hospitals, home care and other lactating centers.Additionally, various government initiatives to promote breast feeding and improve the healthcare outcomes are expected drive market growth. In the U.S., the Affordable Care Act has certain provisions which provide reimbursement for acquiring a breast pump and also covers the consultation charges.On the basis of product, the market is segmented as open system and closed system. In 2013 closed breast pump system held the maximum share of nearly 82%. The closed devices are highly utilized as these devices provide better safety to the child, eliminate impurities and prevent the milk contamination.The market is segmented on the basis of technology as, battery powered breast pump electric breast pump and manual breast pump. The battery powered breast pumps accounted for the maximum share of more than 55% in 2013. The battery powered breast pumps are highly preferred by women who extract milk several times a day and store it for a longer duration.Browse full research report on Global Breast Pump Market:Further key findings from the study suggest: In 2013, North America was the largest market with more than 63% share in global Breast Pump Market. Key reasons attributed are high awareness levels, large women working population and strong encouragement from various stake holders to increase the breast feeding coverage and improve the pediatric healthcare. However, Asia Pacific is expected to be the fastest growing market owing to high economic development, rising disposable incomes and high unmet needs. The developing countries of Asia Pacific region are expected to increase the public and private healthcare expenditure, and also implement various UNICEF and WHO programmes for breast feeding thus boosting market growth. Key market players include, Buettner-Frank GmbH Ltd., Energizer Holdings Inc., Ameda Breastfeeding Solutions, Whittlestone Inc., Linco Baby Merchandise Work's Co.Ltd, Medela,Inc., Bailey Guangzhou Happy Baby Products Medical Engineering, Philips AVENT, Hygeia Medical Group II, and Lansinoh Laboratories, Inc. Furthermore, entry of new players with technologically advanced products is expected to propel usage rates over the forecast period.Read detailed report or request for sample of this research report:Grand View Research has segmented the Breast Pump Market on the basis of application, and region:Global Breast Pumps Product Outlook (Market Revenue in USD Million, 2012 2022) Open System Closed SystemGlobal Breast Pumps Technology Outlook (Market Revenue in USD Million, 2012 2022) Battery-powered Breast Pumps Electrical Breast Pumps Manual Breast PumpsGlobal Breast Pumps Application Outlook (Market Revenue in USD Million, 2012 2022) Personal Use Hospital GradeBreast Pumps Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2014 2022) North America Europe Asia Pacific RoWBrowse more reports of this category by Grand View Research:Grand View Research, Inc. is a U.S. based market research and consulting company, registered in the State of California and headquartered in San Francisco. The company 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, from technology to chemicals, materials and healthcare.Sherry JamesCorporate Sales Specialist, USAGrand View Research, IncWeb: grandviewresearch.comRead our blogs - dniamericas.org, terrapass.org, ni2014.org David Ferrier is the leading sales speakers and motivational speakers in Sydney https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7nE8-SjC8Oc Australia 29.02.2016. David Ferrier is an experienced, thought-provoking and entertaining sales speaker with good command in motivating the cluster of people at a time. The motivational speaker must have all the skills which are required for motivation, energizing and enlightening the audience. Most of the business organizations would like to hire motivational speakers to host your event, conference or seminar. Motivational speaker can represent your business, brand or services in impressive manner so that the audience can left motivated, encouraged or enlighten. He has good knowledge of grabbing attention from the audience and to involve them in the speech with some laughing elements.The sales speakers will definitely help you to know the basic terms of effective sales which will not only help you for progress but also help you to improve the level of working. David Ferrier is the highly specialized and experienced speaker with great experience and professionalism in motivating, inspiring and encouraging the people. He has great knowledge of sales and marketing so he provides highly effective sales training program to the sales personnel so that they can become successful in achieving the business objectives. David Ferrier has gained success as motivational speaker due to his effective talking power. He can give speech effectively to suit your event and intention. Hiring David Ferrier, one of the specialized sales speakers will ensure you that your sales team will left inspired, encouraged and energized. Dont forget to hire David Ferrier for your next sales training program or sales conference if you really need professional assistance.If you are looking for leading and dedicated motivational speakers Sydney then David Ferrier is the most entertaining and thought-provoking speaker.For more detail on sales speakers you can visit at:ResultzCorp is the best place if you are looking for specialized guest speakers in Sydney. David Ferrier is the highly dedicated speaker with very good knowledge and skills to motivate people with his impactful speech. You can hire him for any type of event, seminar or conference for effective speech to motivate audience.Want to rock your upcoming event? Simply prefer David Ferrier, most dynamic motivational speakers in Sydney can host your event in the way you want.7 Clark st, Sydney , NSW , 5000, Australia Market Report - Next Generation Cancer Diagnostics Market Size, Company Share To 2022: Grand View Research, Inc. www.grandviewresearch.com www.dniamericas.org www.terrapass.org www.divog.org Global next generation cancer diagnostics market is anticipated to reach USD 20.25 billion by 2022 growing at an estimated CAGR of 32.0% from 2015 to 2022, according to a new report by Grand View Research Incorporated. Rising incidence of oncology diseases is anticipated to drive the demand for next generation cancer diagnostic tests that are expected to enhance early diagnosis and efficient prognosis of various forms of cancers is a factor expected to positively influence sector growth over the forecast period.Cancer diagnostics industry is estimated to witness lucrative growth over the forecast period majorly due to rising number of technologically advanced products in the field of companion diagnostics, providing more precise testing results combined with therapeutic monitoring early diagnosis of cancer. Moreover, there is a significant shift observed from traditional laboratory testing to rapid point of care testing, which fuels growth in the market owing to expected commercialization of technologically advanced range of products including diagnostic kits, instruments, and reagents.Furthermore, supportive government initiatives in order to increase the number of research projects with respect to oncology and preventative diagnosis is expected to be attributive for growth in this sector overthe coming years. Additionally, application of tumor diagnostics in epigenetic analysis and CTC enumeration for monitoring tumorigenesis is expected to support projected growth over the forecast period.Browse full research report on Global Next Generation Cancer Diagnostics Market: grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/next-generation-cancer-diagnostics-marketFurther key findings from the report suggest: RT-PCR & multiplexing accounted for the largest share of the market in 2014 with respect to technologies because of the presence of a wide product portfolio that caters to a number of applications in oncology R&D. Next generation sequencing solutions for use in cancer diagnostics are expected to witness lucrative growth in revenue over the forecast period owing to the considerable number of advantages the technology offers over its counterpart segment i.e. microarrays. Introduction of novel sequencing platforms and growth oriented initiatives taken by major market participants are other key factors expected to fuel segment growth. In January 2016, Illumina launched its MiniSeq system for the sequencing, which provides complete sequencing solution in order to obtain quicker results because of onboard data analysis for numerous assays and workflow with easy-to-use library-to-results. Such strategic initiatives taken by major market entities are also expected to drive this segment further over the forecast period. Development and expected commercialization of a number of companion diagnostics is a key factor attributive of anticipated substantial growth in demand and progress of the segment over the next seven years owing to rising sector penetration in this segment for use with therapeutics and novel pharmaceuticals as adjunct in monitoring tumor eradication. Dominant industry participants to produce non-small cell lung cancer diagnostic tests anticipate lung cancer to witness substantial growth in market demand because of product development operations carried out. Application of oncology diagnostics in biomarker discovery by transcription regulation is expected to drive industry with potential growth avenues as it subsequently proves helpful in drug designing and identification of novel targets for tumor eradication North America held the largest share with respect to revenue generation in 2014 due to simultaneous development of next generation sequencing, personalized medicine and companion diagnostics in the region. Furthermore, high R&D investment as well as availability of technologically advanced healthcare research framework, is expected to serve as a critical factor for the North American region to register considerable growth over the forecast period. Presence of significant developments by China and Japan for technological integration, and the development of healthcare infrastructure have poised the Asia Pacific oncology diagnostics market to witness lucrative opportunities of growth throughout the forecast period. Moreover, enhancements of clinical development frameworks in these economies to enable clinical research outsourcing as an effect of the availability of target population is a growth rendering driver in this region. Key players contributing significantly to the next generation cancer diagnostics market are Novartis AG, Cepheid, Roche Holdings AG, Perkin Elmer Inc., Sysmex Corporation, Abbott Laboratories, Thermo Fisher Scientific Inc., Philips Electronics NV, Agilent Technologies Inc., Illumina Inc., Genomic Health Inc. Qiagen, Johnson & Johnson, Hologic Inc., Myriad Genetics Inc., Almac Group Limited, Opko Health Inc., and GE Healthcare, These entities are involved in collaborations with oncology research organizations and clinical research institutes in order to gain access in the oligopolistic market.Read detailed report or request for sample of this research report:grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/next-generation-cancer-diagnostics-market/requestGrand View Research has segmented next generation cancer diagnostics market on the basis of technology, function type, cancer type, application, and region:Global Next Generation Cancer Diagnostics Technology Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2015 2022) DNA Microarrays Protein Microarrays Lab-on-a chip RT-PCR & Multiplexing NGS SequencingGlobal Next Generation Cancer Diagnostics Outlook, by Function (Revenue, USD Million, 2015 2022) Risk analysis Cancer Screening Prognostics diagnosis Therapeutic Monitoring Companion DiagnosticsGlobal Next Generation Cancer Diagnostics Outlook, by Cancer Type (Revenue, USD Million, 2015 2022) Breast Cancer Cervical cancer Colorectal Cancer Lung Cancer OthersGlobal Next Generation Cancer Diagnostics Application Outlook, (Revenue, USD Million, 2015 2022) Genetic Analysis Epigenetic Analysis CTC Analysis Proteomic Analysis Biomarker DevelopmentNext Generation Cancer Diagnostics Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2015 2022) North Americao U.S.o Canada Europeo Germanyo Franceo UK Asia Pacifico Japano China Latin Americao Brazil MEAo South AfricaBrowse more reports of this category by Grand View Research: grandviewresearch.com/industry/clinical-diagnosticsGrand View Research, Inc. is a U.S. based market research and consulting company, registered in the State of California and headquartered in San Francisco. The company 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, from technology to chemicals, materials and healthcare.Sherry JamesCorporate Sales Specialist, USAGrand View Research, IncWeb:Read our blogs - 23rd Africa Oil Week 23rd Africa Oil Week 2016 (Cape Town) While the African Continent continues to attract a steady stream of oil and gas commitments in its fast-growing oil, gas-LNG and energy industry, our landmark Africa Oil Week 2016 event will again showcase Africas Governments, National Oil Companies, Licensing Agencies and corporate players shaping the continents future in exploration and production/development, across new frontiers and established basins; onshore in the Rifts and offshore in the shelf and deep-water, providing one unique continental platform portraying deep insight, rich-content, strategies, acreage opportunity, farm-ins and deal flow, with extensive high-level senior executive networking for securing new venture possibilities and finance/investment opportunities.The conference in 2016 highlights Africas upstream world, Independents from around the world engaged in Africa, the expanding Africa-wide gas-LNG and energy game, emerging unconventional ventures in shale and diverse hydrocarbons, the fast-growing class of Born in Africa companies, Africas state oil firms and foreign national oil companies, leading exploration technologies, geoscience/technical ideas, local content policies and players, plus Young Professionals in Africa, with debate and discourse on Africas oil and gas futureAs numerous top-level executives in the global industry have oft-noted, the Africa Oil Week/Africa Upstream Conference stands apart from all other events as the leading meeting in or on Africa, and sits at the top of the global oil-gas calendar, allowing delegates unrivaled opportunities: To meet with Africas state oil officials, Ministers, plus senior executives, private oil players and worldwide public listed oil-gas/energy companies Acquire insight and knowledge from an outstanding program with 175 top-line speakers Negotiate deals, investments and farm-in / farmout opportunities with corporates and state oil firms Interface with over 40 Governments and participate in roadshow opportunities for emerging acreage/asset transactions Discuss ventures with major oil/energy banking institutions, institutional oil-equity investors, project financiers, multilaterals and transaction advisors Network with the growing service and supply industry operators found across Africas oil and gas-LNG value chain Engage with 180 exhibitor companies, and over 1,250-plus senior executive delegates Listen to the top corporate/state decision-makers, leading thinkers, analysts, financiers and policy-makers Combine corporate interest with multiple five-star social occasions with peers in breakfasts, luncheons, dinners, receptions, and after-hoursSource: Global Pacific & Partners------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Note for Press:For further information, please contact:Babette van GesselTel: +31-70.324.6154babette@glopac.comSponsors/ Exhibitorsamanda@glopac-partners.comsonika@glopac-partners.comMedia/Marketingjodee@glopac-partners.comRegistrationjudith@glopac-partners.comContact:Global Pacific & Partners+27 11 880 7052judith@glopac.comGlobal Pacific & Partners, established by earliest origins in Africa, has from 1978 shaped an unmatched track record in Africa and inside the world oil industry, on several counts.The senior partners of the firm have enjoyed a combined 70 years in partnership within the industry over this time, with over 40 years ensemble for the Chairman and Chief Executive (Duncan Clarke and Babette van Gessel), making this the longest private partnership in world oil and gas across the firm's portfolio, and in Africa-wide and global upstream ventures, whether within the developing world or elsewhere.This journey across the world upstream has taken the existing partners to over 125 countries on its corporate and business endeavours, with over one million miles travelled to accomplish the tasks behind building the firm's global portfolio.The firm divested its global conference suite of world-class events, conducted for over two decades, in a transaction executed with a large London-listed company in early 2015.Global Pacific & Partners continues managing and building its own proprietary portfolio in Africa and around the world, holding its core and retained assets in advisory practice, research, knowledge banks, public and in-house strategy briefings, senior executive clubs, stakeholder and investor relations, private client news, global oil media relationships, along with its long-established suite of first-class Africa-wide and global oil and gas platforms, senior executive networks and industry entities.Global Pacific & Partners1st Floor Regent Place22 Cradock AvenueRosebank (2196), JohannesburgGauteng, South AfricaTel: +27 11 880 7052Media Contact:jodee@glopac-partners.comjudith@glopac-partners.com Russia In Vitro Diagnostics (IVD) Market Size, Share, Growth 2021: Acute Market Reports http://www.acutemarketreports.com/report/russia-in-vitro-diagnostics-ivd-market-outlook-to-2021-clinical-chemistry-genetic-testing-haematology-histology-and-cytology-immuno-chemistry-infectious-diagnostics-and-microbiology-culture http://www.acutemarketreports.com/category/medical-equipments-market http://www.mobilecomputingtoday.co.uk/ http://www.acutemarketreports.com/ SummaryGlobalDatas new report, "Russia In Vitro Diagnostics (IVD) Market Outlook to 2021 - Clinical Chemistry, Genetic Testing, Haematology, Histology and Cytology, Immuno Chemistry, Infectious Diagnostics and Microbiology Culture", provides key market data on the Russia In Vitro Diagnostics market. The report provides value, in millions of US dollars within market segments - Immuno Chemistry, Clinical Chemistry, Infectious Diagnostics, Haematology, Microbiology Culture, Histology and Cytology and Genetic Testing.The report also provides company shares and distribution shares data for the market category, and global corporate-level profiles of the key market participants. Based on the availability of data for the particular category and country, information related to pipeline products, news and deals is available in the report.Browse full report with TOC @Extensive interviews are conducted with industry experts to validate the market size, company share and distribution share data and analysis.Scope- In Vitro Diagnostics market includes Immuno Chemistry, Clinical Chemistry, Infectious Diagnostics, Haematology, Microbiology Culture, Histology and Cytology and Genetic Testing.- Annualized market revenues (USD million) data for each of the market categories. Data is provided from 2007 to 2014 and forecast to 2021.- 2014 company shares and distribution shares data for In Vitro Diagnostics market.- Global corporate-level profiles of key companies operating within the Russia In Vitro Diagnostics market.- Key players covered include F. Hoffmann-La Roche Ltd., Siemens Healthcare, Abbott Laboratories, bioMerieux S.A., Danaher Corporation, Ortho-Clinical Diagnostics Inc. Becton, Dickinson and Company, Bio-Rad Laboratories, Inc. and Others.View all reports of this category @Reasons to buy- Develop business strategies by identifying the key market segments poised for strong growth in the future.- Develop market-entry and market expansion strategies.- Design competition strategies by identifying who-stands-where in the market.- Develop investment strategies by identifying the key market segments expected to register strong growth in the near future.- What are the key distribution channels and whats the most preferred mode of product distribution - Identify, understand and capitalize.Blog URL:About Acute Market ReportsAcute Market Reports is the most sufficient collection of market intelligence services online. It is your only source that can fulfill all your market research requirements. Acute Market Reports provide online reports from over 100 best publishers and upgrade Acute Market Reports collection regularly to offer you direct online access to the worlds most comprehensive and recent database with expert perceptions on worldwide industries, products, establishments and trends. Acute Market Reports database consists of 200,000+ market research reports with detailed & minute market research.Contact:Chris PaulOffice No 01, 1st Floor,Aditi Mall, Baner, Pune,MH, 411045 IndiaPhone (India): +91 7755981103Toll Free (US/Canada): +1-855-455-8662Email: sales@acutemarketreports.comFor More Information Click Here Acute Market Reports is the most sufficient collection of market intelligence services online. It is your only source that can fulfill all your market research requirements. Acute Market Reports provide online reports from over 100 best publishers and upgrade Acute Market Reports collection regularly to offer you direct online access to the worlds most comprehensive and recent database with expert perceptions on worldwide industries, products, establishments and trends. Acute Market Reports database consists of 200,000+ market research reports with detailed & minute market research.Office No 01, 1st Floor,Aditi Mall, Baner, Pune,MH, 411045 India Glenn Long Glenn E. Long, born April 22, 1927, to Lawrence E. and Agnes (Maske) Long at York, died peacefully on Feb. 26, 2016, in Bismarck. Services will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, March 3, at Lutheran Church of the Cross, 1004 E. Highland Acres Road, Bismarck, with the Rev. Donna Dohrmann officiating. Burial will be held at 3 p.m. Thursday at North Dakota Veterans Cemetery, Mandan. Visitation will be held from 6 to 7 p.m. Wednesday at Eastgate Funeral Service, 2302 E. Divide Ave., Bismarck, with a prayer service beginning at 7 p.m. After graduating from York High School, Glenn was drafted into the Army Air Corps, and was stationed in Japan. He was honorably discharged from the service in 1946 and returned to North Dakota, enrolling at Minot State College to pursue a degree in business. He later transferred to University of North Dakota. Glenns working career started at the Union National Bank in Minot. While in Minot, he met and married Lauretta Lunde of Silva. After their marriage, they lived in Minot and started their family with the birth of their first son, Gerald Jerry. They later moved to Bottineau, where Glenn worked at North Central Electric for a short time, before taking a position as office manager at Baker Electric in Cando. Glenn and Lauretta lived in Cando for 10 years, where they added David, Larry, Carla and Roger to their family. Glenn was hired as manager at North Central Electric in 1962, with the family returning to Bottineau. He retired from North Central in 1987. Glenn was an innovator during his time at North Central bringing in one of the first computer systems in the state. He was very involved in the community, being one of the founding members of the group who started the Bottineau Winter Park. Glenn joined a local group of investors who purchased the stock of the State Bank of Bottineau in 1981. He was an active member of the banks board of directors until the time of his death. After retirement, Glenn and Lauretta traveled frequently, enjoying warmer climates in the winter and returning to North Dakota for many summers. He enjoyed fishing, hunting and family get-togethers. Glenn is survived by his wife, Lauretta; his sons, Jerry (Connie), Larry (JoAnn) and Roger (Linda); his daughter, Carla (Jeffrey); his daughter-in-law, Cheryl (David); his grandchildren, Wade (Jocelyn), Scot (Melissa), Holly (Mike), Derek, Mitch, Margo, Jacob (Brittany), Beth (Zach) and Josh; his great-grandchildren, Kylie, Kieffer, Kambree, Addison and Weston; his brother, Carl (Marlys); his sisters, Lucille and Lavon; and several nieces and nephews. Glenn was preceded in death by his parents; and one son, David. Go to www.eastgatefuneral.com to share memories of Glenn and sign the online guest book. Tibbo participated at the Internet of Things (IoT) Tech Expo in London http://blog.aggregate.tibbo.com/2016/02/iot-tech-expo-europe2016/ Taipei, Taiwan Tibbo, a leading manufacturer of IoT devices and intelligent device management software, exhibited at the IoT Tech Expo Europe 2016 which took place in Londons Olympia. These were productive two days, which have brought together a great number of well-known IoT industry experts. More than 100 companies took part at the Event.At the Expo, we have presented our innovative IoT architecture comprising the AggreGate IoT platform and Tibbo Project System (TPS) hardware. Combined together, AggreGate and TPS allow our clients to build and deploy sophisticated distributed control, monitoring and data collection systems.The conference program consisted of several sessions dedicated to daily life IoT, industrial IoT, physical security, asset management, smart cities and more. Leading IoT experts have provided their own opinions and forecasts on the Internet of Things future development trends. Interesting topics and issues were raised within Q&A sessions.Having been involved in this event, Tibbo gained very exciting and productive experience. Weve discussed the collaboration prospects with potential partners, as well as met IoT market drivers and influencers.Organizers and experts have also commended the IoT Tech Expo Forum for its role in developing existing frameworks, IoT products, the Internet of Things as a whole, as well as emerging start-ups. Roundtable discussions and demo booths allowed participants to estimate the current M2M and device connectivity level in the cloud and reveal the bottlenecks. The experts exchanged their views on the main problems and challenges being faced by developers, integrators and vendors. They tried to find solutions to these issues, make plans and forecasts for the future.Based on the successful experience with London forum, organizers are going to repeat the event in January 2017. In addition in summer and autumn 2016 similar conferences will be held in Germany and San Francisco. Tibbo Systems is also considering these participations capabilities.Take a look at the photo-repot here:Tibbo Systems specializes in control and monitoring software. We develop, deploy and service solutions based on AggreGate IoT Platform. Established in 2002, Tibbo Systems takes care of developing AggreGate Platform itself, as well as all vertical market products based on it. There are many software professionals, IT infrastructure engineers, automation experts and IoT gurus in our core team.9F-3, No.31, Lane 169, Kang-Ning St. New Android App makes Night Owls Wake Up Refreshed in the Morning The app "Gentle Wakeup" turns an Android device into a sunrise simulator which wakes people up by light. Changing from an alarm clock to a wake up light can make a tremendous difference from feeling dizzy the whole day to waking up refreshed in the most natural way.There are many alarm apps trying to find the right sleep phase but they may wake up people 20 minutes too early. The app Gentle Wakeup turns an Android device into a wake up light and shifts the light sleep phase exactly to the desired wake up time. With a wake up light the body will start a biological process to leave the deep sleep phase and prepare for the wake up. People feel fully awake when they open their eyes and are ready for the day.There are two types of people in the world: Early birds and night owls. Early birds can get up immediately when the alarm clock rings and get ready with full power for the day. Night Owls have the same energy in the evening but when it comes to waking up they hit the snooze button over and over again. Since the working life is designed for early birds the owls have a huge problem. They get ripped out of the deep sleep phase by a loud noise which was an indication of danger from animals or from enemies back in the stone ages.The success of the app in waking up refreshed at an exact time is based on the high controllability of the wake up process. All alarms start weak and rise gently during a specified time to a final intensity level. A typical configuration consists of a sunrise started 20 minutes before the desired wake-up time, slowly increasing sounds of birds, twittering on time and a slowly increasing device vibration as a backup 5 min after wake up time. Most people who tried out a wake up light never wanted to wake up by sounds again.Get Gently Wakeup nowThe app is freely available for Android.(1772 characters, free for reprint)Homepage: ChangeMyStyle.comProduct URL: changemystyle.com/gentle-wakeup/gentle-wakeup.htmlDirect Download Link Android: play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.changemystyle.gentlewakeupPress Kit: changemystyle.com/gentle-wakeup/gentle-wakeup-presskit.zipInformation about the companyChangeMyStyle.com is owned by the Indie Developer Dr. Rieger. Products started in 1999 with photo effects for Windows computers and have won several awards during the years (graphics-tools.com). Started app development in 2012 for iOS. Since then lifestyle utilities, quiz games and over 1000 photo effects have been released.ChangeMyStyle.comDr. Alexander Rieger, Bochumer Str. 22, 10555 Berlin, GermanyE-Mail: info@changemystyle.comInternet: ChangeMyStyle.com VisitMySmokies.com Sets New Record in 2015 www.imegonline.com We are pleased with the results from last years campaign for the county tourism efforts and the Visit My Smokies lodging partners, said Justin Jones, CEO and founder of IMEG, the agency of record for VisitMySmokies.com. Last year, we were excited to see the website at just a few visits shy of 2 million visitors; this year we achieved 2,466,271 visitors to the site. We are very excited to have launched the new website in April 2015. It greatly improved the websites user experience and continues to drive even more clicks to our lodging partners. In 2015, we drove over 748,000 clicks to the lodging partners of VisitMySmokies.com and, with our strategy for 2016, we expect that number to increase.Success for VisitMySmokies.com will not be slowing down any time soon. In January 2016, the site broke several all-time records, having over 302,000 visits to the website in the month of January alone. The website also had over 80,000 visits to its lodging partners in January.Website administrators with VisitMySmokies.com are looking forward to launching a new partner portal for its lodging partners. This is expected to launch within the first half of this year and has been in beta testing for over 6 months. This will allow lodging partners to optimize and track what is working for them on VisitMySmokies.com and will help lodging partners produce more tax revenue for the county.IMEG is also very excited to be working with Sevier Countys new lodging program coordinator, Angela Atchley. In just a few short months, she has been helping drive even more success for the program which helps area businesses, schools and Sevier County citizens.Established in 2009, Visit My Smokies is the only site travelers need to plan a vacation to the Great Smoky Mountains. Owned by Sevier County, Tennessee, the program focuses on promoting travel and tourism in relation to Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge and Sevierville area lodging, attractions, dining and shopping. All offices are located at: 125 Court Ave., Suite 102 E, Sevierville, TN 37862.For more information on the agency, please call toll free 18007361122 or visitIMEG is a digital marketing agency that challenges business owners in the travel and tourism industry to think differently about how they grow their company. Focused on taking the guesswork out of marketing, IMEG utilizes factbased data to make solid marketing decisions with trackable results.Contact :305 Elm Street,Sevierville, Tennessee37862, United StatesPhone : (865) 323-1738Fax : 865-622-2008 Marine Lubricants Market Trends, Growth Prospects To 2020: Grand View Research, Inc. http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/marine-lubricant-market http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry-analysis/marine-lubricant-market/request http://www.grandviewresearch.com/industry/petrochemicals-and-downstream-derivatives The global marine lubricant market is expected to reach USD 10.94 billion by 2020, according to a new study by Grand View Research, Inc. Growth of global cargo fleets is expected to remain a key driving factor for the global marine lubricants market. Growth of global shipping industry on account of growing number of voyages is also expected to propel the growth of marine lubricants. Volatile raw material prices and stringent regulatory scenario across various major regions is expected to remain key challenges for market participants.Browse full research report on Global Marine Lubricants Market:Mineral oil was the largest product segment and accounted for 88% of the total market demand in 2013. Cheap and easy availability of mineral oils along with increasing investments for R&D have been the major factors responsible for the growth of the market over the last few years. Mineral oil is also anticipated to experience highest growth rate over the next six years. The segment is expected to grow at an estimated CAGR of 3.6% from 2014 to 2020.Read detailed report or request for sample of this research report:Further key findings from the study suggest: Global marine lubricant market volume was 2,428.7 kilo tons in 2013 and is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 3.6% from 2014 to 2020. Engine oil emerged as the leading application segment and accounted for 46.3% of total market volume in 2013. Increasing engine capacities and efficiency in ships is expected to drive the demand for engine oils. Hydraulic oil is expected to be one of the fastest growing application segments for marine lubricants growing at an estimated CAGR of 3.4% from 2014 to 2020. Increasing dependence on hydraulic mechanical parts in ships is expected to augment the market growth over the next six years. Europe emerged as the leading regional market for marine lubricant and accounted for 46.2% of total demand in 2013. The European market is characterized by high investments for lubricants of different grades coupled with increasing seaborne trade specially food & beverages and packed foods. Europe along with being the largest market is also expected to witness highest growth over the forecast period. Growth of shipping industry coupled with governmental support in form of freight tax relaxation in India and China is anticipated to fuel the Asia Pacific marine lubricants market over the forecast period. The global marine lubricants market is oligopolistic in nature and the market participants compete on the basis of product development and overall profitability. The market is primarily dominated by major oil & gas companies including BP Marine, Total Lubricants, Royal Dutch Shell, Chevron, Castrol, ExxonMobil and Sinopec Corporation.Browse more reports of this category by Grand View Research:For the purpose of this study, Grand View Research has segmented the marine lubricants market on the basis of product, application and region:Global Marine Lubricants Product Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2012 - 2020) Mineral Marine Lubricants Synthetic Marine Lubricants Bio-Based Marine LubricantGlobal Marine Lubricants Application Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2012 - 2020) Engine Oil Hydraulic Oil Greases OthersGlobal Marine Lubricants Regional Outlook (Volume, Kilo Tons; Revenue, USD Million, 2012 - 2020) North America Europe Asia Pacific RoWGrand View Research, Inc. is a U.S. based market research and consulting company, registered in the State of California and headquartered in San Francisco. The company 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, from technology to chemicals, materials and healthcare.Sherry JamesCorporate Sales Specialist, USAGrand View Research, IncPhone: 1-415-349-0058Toll Free: 1-888-202-9519email: sales@grandviewresearch.comWeb: grandviewresearch.comRead Our Blogs qyresearchreports.biz, mediafound.org Saketa Timesheet Your Smart Time and Effort Management Solution Saketa Timesheet Dashboard www.saketa.com Texas, Austin, SharePoint TechCon, February 2016: Saketa, a Technovert company announces the launch of its most awaited product Saketa Timesheet as a SharePoint add-in. Saketa Timesheet is a time management tool to gather the time spent by the teams on various projects/tasks within an organization and comes with handy reports and dashboards for quick approvals and analysis.In todays era, time is the one of the most valuable resources for any organization. So, effective management, tracking and utilization of time will be the key for a successful business. In a services industry whether IT, manufacturing, healthcare, consulting or any other, all the billing is always by the hours worked and time tracking is an integral part of the system. An effective time management system, easy to use, cost effective and all this made available within your intranet platform of choice SharePoint was what Saketa envisioned.Try it or watch it to believe what this tool can do for you. Whether On-premise, Cloud or Office 365 versions of SharePoint, Saketa Timesheet can be your instant time tracking solution, keeping all your data secure within your own network, comes at a fraction of cost and gives you the luxury of easy maintenance. No more dependencies on external timesheet products, the huge costs or worry about your data security. All this is now possible from within your SharePoint portals, with no loss of core features. Says it Product Director Sashi Pagadala, who has been working with SharePoint for a decade now and been a part of developing several enterprise level solutions.FeaturesSaketa Timesheet offers the following features: Ability to maintain a Client, Projects and Tasks kind of hierarchy Client and Project dashboards Daily, Weekly threshold limits for hours Max cap limit for individual tasks Billable and non-billable task categories Configurable Holiday calendar with provision for leave logs User specific weekly timesheet Reminders for submission and approvals Bulk approval / rejection of timesheets Reports (client, project, manager, employee level reporting) Email notifications Role based security User based licensingPricingDownload and try it for free from Office store to evaluate all the features. Saketa Timesheet comes with easy to manage user based licensing based with costing as low as $1 per user* per month.Contact Saketa at sales[@]saketa.com for any questions, demo or plan your licensing needs.Saketa is a SharePoint Solutions provider. Our SharePoint Productivity Box helps Enterprises quickly launch and organically grow their SharePoint Environment. At SPTechCon, we will present SharePoint Apps, Ready to use Productivity widgets and rapid Intranet solutions. Our apps are built on a robust Saketa framework that is easy to maintain, upgrade, customize and is compatible across Office 365, on premise and hybrid deployment. Our solutions help enterprises leverage SharePoint to enhance business collaboration and productivity. Saketa is part of Technovert, visit us atSaketa (A Technovert Company)Shekhar Shardendu, Director - Customer Relations2211 Elliott AvenueSuite 200 Seattle, WA 98121Contact Number: +1 206-669-6828Email Address: shekhar@saketa.com Speed limits on much of Interstate 84, as well as several rural Oregon highways, will jump Tuesday as a law passed last year takes effect. The speed limit on I-84 from the Idaho border to The Dalles -- and Interstate 82, connecting I-84 to Washington state -- will rise from 65 to 70 mph, and from 60 to 65 mph for trucks. A stretch of the two-lane U.S. 95 connecting Nevada and Idaho will get the same treatment to match speeds in those states. Eight other highways will see speeds rise from 55 to 65 mph, and to 60 mph for trucks. They include stretches: U.S. 20, U.S. 26, U.S. 97, U.S. 197, U.S. 395, Oregon 31, Oregon 78 and Oregon 205. None of the changes affect the Portland metro area or the Interstate 5 corridor. The Oregon Legislature approved the change last year. (Another bill, which would have increased interstate speeds to 75 mph and state highway speeds to 65 mph across the board, went nowhere fast.) Washington state traffic engineers are studying whether to increase some speed limits to 75 mph. That state's legislature voted to increase the speed limit, but Gov. Jay Inslee vetoed that portion of the bill while preserving an order to study the speed hike. Safety advocates say raising speeds might amplify a recent increase in traffic fatalities. The spike in road deaths comes as people are driving more in response to a stronger economy and lower gas prices, and the increase in Oregon was one of largest in the country. "Even with safer automobiles, the increased speed does increase the severity of crashes when crashes do occur," Ken Kolosh, who heads the nonprofit National Safety Council's statistics department, told The Oregonian/OregonLive earlier this month. "The roads with higher speed limits are most at risk for fatal crashes. It's really just a question of physics." -- Elliot Njus enjus@oregonian.com 503-294-5034 @enjus This post has been updated to reflect the following correction: Speeds on part of Interstate 84, Interstate 82 and U.S. 95 will increase to 70 mph for passenger vehicles on Tuesday. An earlier version of this post correctly reported the new speed limit. The Lake Region Law Enforcement Center in Devils Lake faces an unusual situation for North Dakota it needs inmates. Its a reminder that government-run jails arent for-profit businesses. While many jails across the state are facing overcrowding issues, the Lake Region LEC saw its inmate count drop during the last quarter of 2015. The average daily inmate count was 90.7 from January through September last year, but dropped to 82.2 during the last three months of the year. The jail has a capacity of 108. Lake Region needs to average 91 prisoners to break even. The Lake Region LEC also lost other revenue streams. Its eight-bed juvenile facility closed in 2014 after Lake Region lost its contract with the federal government to house juvenile offenders from around the country. Lake Region got more than $1 million annually nearly a decade ago and more than $500,000 in 2011 and 2012 from the contract. The Bureau of Indian Affairs also paid more than $250,000 annually in 2012 and 2013 to house juveniles in the facility, according to the Forum News Service. Now Lake Region is looking for additional funding sources. Lake Region serves Benson, Eddy, Nelson, Ramsey and Towner counties, with each contributing money annually for Lake Regions operation. The counties also pay a daily rate for prisoners staying in the jail. The counties are now paying to send juveniles to the Grand Forks County Juvenile Detention Center and other facilities. One of the goals of law enforcement is to reduce crime. If successful, fewer people go to jail and possibly spend less time there. Yes, the oil boom brought more people into the state and the number of crimes increased. The slowdown in the oil patch has changed the situation, with Williston last week reporting a decrease in many types of crimes. It wont be surprising if other counties and cities in the Bakken report the same trend. Thats why those running jails shouldnt count on them being money-making endeavors. Housing juveniles from around the country may have seemed like a fiscally-sound plan, but that ended. Western North Dakota encountered a similar situation a number of years ago. Operating jails and prisons is a necessity of government. Along with it comes requirements for the safety and health of the prisoners. The facilities also need to be secure for the protection of the staff, who often deal with dangerous people. That gets expensive and it requires efficient management, funding from the governmental entities and fees to other cities and counties that might want to house prisoners. Trying to make a business out of it by contracting for prisoners from out of state can be risky. Theres no guarantee of a steady stream of prisoners. North Dakota is in the process of studying a number of corrections issues. Overcrowding, not a lack of prisoners, is one of the major issues facing the state. One of the short-term solutions might be moving prisoners from crowded jails to Lake Region. Transferring prisoners gets costly and it can be time consuming moving prisoners back and forth for court appearances. The Lake Region Law Enforcement Center board plans to invite county commissioners, area legislators and other stakeholders to a meeting to discuss funding options. Hopefully they can reach some agreement. It would be great if the states crime rate continues to drop and the need to send as many people to jail goes away. That may be too optimistic, but its a goal everyone should work toward. The lack of inmates would be a good problem for the entire state to have to solve. University of Oregon President Michael Schill University of Oregon President Michael Schill during pregame festivities before the Washington State Cougars face the Washington State Cougars at Autzen Stadium in Eugene. Schill is expected to discuss some staff shakeup at the Board of Trustees meetings this week. (Thomas Boyd/The Oregonian) (story by the Eugene Register-Guard) University of Oregon President Michael Schill -- entering his ninth month as president -- is getting to the painful nub of his organizational shakeup. Some tenured faculty are carrying skimpy teaching loads compared with others, Schill wrote in a recent memo addressed to the campus community. Some departments hire more non-tenure track faculty to teach courses even as their student enrollment has declined, he wrote. "We must do better, and we will do better," wrote Schill, later adding, "To do anything less would consign our great university to mediocrity." Schill proposes shifting resources, including hiring as many as 100 new tenure-track faculty over five years in some disciplines -- but also letting go of non-tenured faculty in disciplines that are losing favor with students or no longer rank as highly in the university's priorities. Michael Dreiling, president of the UO's faculty union, United Academics, said the university hasn't pinpointed how many contracts it will not renew, but said he expects it to be more than 12 and fewer than 100. Schill is scheduled to address the issue at daylong meetings of the UO Board of Trustees on Thursday and Friday at the Ford Alumni Center. The 337 faculty members in the College of Arts and Sciences will be the first to undergo the proposed "strategic realignment of resources." In the college's humanities division, for example, the non-tenured faculty rolls grew 80 percent over eight years while student credit hours shrank 8 percent, according to data prepared by interim Dean W. Andrew Marcus. The humanities include the subjects of cinema studies, classics, comparative literature, English, folklore, German, Scandinavian and East Asian languages, philosophy and others. The humanities division employs 129 tenured and tenure-track faculty, 145 non-tenured faculty, and 59 adjunct or visiting faculty. Undergraduate majors in humanities number 1,561, but humanities departments provide basic undergraduate courses for schools and colleges across the campus. Marcus pledged to give timely notice to all non-tenured faculty and the "small number" of staff who will not be employed in the coming school year. The United Academics contract requires the university to notify by May 1 any faculty member whose contract will not be renewed for the coming school year. "We've worked to make sure the processes are transparent and accountable," Dreiling said. But Schill said there's no sugarcoating the decisions. "This is not business as usual," he wrote. "Not all departments or schools will be net winners. Some members of our campus community may encounter hardship as we become better stewards of our resources." -- The Register-Guard (via The Associated Press) Salma Hayek Mexican actress and producer Salma Hayek poses for pictures on the red carpet, promoting her new movie "The Prophet," in Mexico City, Sunday, Jan. 17, 2016. Hayek produced and voices a character in the animated film adaptation of Lebanese writer Kahlil Gibran's 1923 book of prose poetry. (The Associated Press) A dog belonging to movie star Salma Hayek died at the actress's Washington state ranch after being shot, according to a post on Instagram. "I haven't posted for a week as I been mourning the death of my dog, Mozart who I personally delivered out of his mother's womb. He was found dead in my ranch last Friday with a shot close to his heart," Hayek posted Feb. 26. "I am hoping that the Washington State authorities do justice to this wonderful dog whom in 9 years never bit or attacked anyone. He loved his territory and never strayed away...he was the most loving and loyal companion. He didn't deserve a slow and painful death." As it turns out, the shot that killed Mozart was a "fluke," KOMO News of Seattle reported Sunday. The dog ran off during an outing with the ranch's groundskeeper, and police believe a nearby property owner fired a shot from a pellet gun to scare him away. The bullet fatally nicked an artery, KOMO reported. Hayek was in Los Angeles during the incident. Police are still looking for the person who fired the shot. Charges are not expected to be filed, although the investigation is ongoing, KOMO reported. The ranch is near Yelm, east of Olympia. children's books Kate Bentley, 4, left, and Cybele Lowenkopf, 4, got together after story time to look over a book at Murray Scholls Library March 3, 2015. (Benjamin Brink/The Oregonian) Publishing giant Simon & Schuster is launching a line of Muslim children's books, called Salaam Reads, which will release its first titles in 2017. Company leaders believe Salaam Reads is the first imprint at a major publisher "focused on Muslim characters and stories," according to a news release from the company. (An imprint is a trade name publishing companies use to publish books that fit a certain genre or mission, similar to a department within the larger company.) "Our aim with the Salaam Reads imprint is in part to provide fun and compelling books for Muslim children, but we also intend for these books to be entertaining and enriching for a larger non-Muslim audience," Zareen Jaffery, executive editor of Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers, said in the release. Jaffery has been bothered by the absence of Muslim characters in children's literature for years, she told The New York Times. As a young Pakistani-American Muslim, she didn't see herself reflected in her childhood books. "I remember looking at books to try to figure out, 'What does it mean to be American? Am I doing this right?'" Jaffery told The New York Times. The publishing industry has publicly wrestled with diversity in recent years. NPR reports "#WeNeedDiverseBooks -- first an influential hashtag, then a nonprofit organization -- has strongly advocated for children's books, in particular, to represent a wider range of races, classes, cultures and ability levels, calling out the need for children to see stories about people who look like them." Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world, and the Pew Research Center projects the global Muslim population will surpass that of Christians within 60 years. "They are an underserved literary market," Jon Anderson, President of Simon & Schuster Children's Publishing, said in a news release last week. "Children's books are a fantastic way to get to know our local and global Muslim neighbors." -- Melissa Binder mbinder@oregonian.com 503-294-7656 @binderpdx Forest Grove police car.jpg The following is a list of calls, provided by the Forest Grove Police Department, that officers responded to during the past week. Feb. 21 * Police responded to a residence where an unknown 5-year-old child rang the bell and claimed he had run away from home. Detective skills and the mother's wallet, which the boy had taken, led to a reunification with Mom nearby. * The owner of a local business called to report that their dumpster was being filled with other people's trash. After a little digging, an address was found and officers were able to follow up and cite the dumper. * A caller reported that his bank account was being drained after he responded to an email asking him to provide his credit card number, expiration date, and security code. Feb. 22 * Officers arrested the owner and director of the Elms retirement community on 20 counts of sex abuse and allegations of burglary. The arrest followed a five-month investigation. * A caller reported that his 13-year-old daughter had been followed down the street by a male who repeatedly asked her inappropriate questions. While the girl was only approached once, the caller stated that the male frequents the location. * Police responded to an alarm at a building on Pacific Avenue. Police discovered that a dog in the building had triggered a motion sensor alarm. Building staff were able to secure the animal. Feb. 23 * Campus Public Safety reported numerous car break-ins in three different Pacific University campus parking lots resulting in stolen cash and documents. * Officers responded to a call at a local hotel where an employee reported seeing a woman sleeping in a couch in the middle of the parking lot. Officers asked the woman to move along, which she did without incident. * A man asked officers to assist in removing a "crazy woman" from his hotel room, however he wanted to remain anonymous and refused to give officers the room number. This left officers few options with fulfilling the man's request for assistance. Feb. 24 * A man called claiming that his ex-girlfriend had been stealing from him and replacing the items with junk from thrift stores. Officers found a layer of dust on the items and no signs anything had moved. * Police received a call from a man concerned that he was being spied on by the police, and that four men and a woman had come to the location in multiple vehicles and climbed a ladder to look into his window. He suggested that his neighbors don't like him much, and it's possible they requested the surveillance. * A caller reported that a bicyclist stuffed a large bag in a hedge and took off. The contents were discovered to be cans. Feb. 25 * A caller reported hearing a man inside an apartment yelling and the sound of a young child. Police found a man who said he was attempting to verbally correct his daughter's behavior. His daughter was apparently playing with her food instead of eating it. * Officers were called to a domestic disturbance at a local bus stop and spoke with family members upset at each other for missing a bus for a scheduled flight out of Portland. * A woman called police upset that someone had posted a nude picture of her on Craigslist. She said she gave the photo out and was advised against doing such a thing in the future. Feb. 26 * The police department received calls from all over the world suggesting theories to the sound heard in Forest Grove after the story appeared on Inside Edition. Some left voicemails reading scripture. Other suggestions included going door to door checking septic tanks. One caller was convinced the sound was coming from a now defunct government research facility in Gakona, Alaska, while another was convinced it was the Amish using Apple devices via Direct TV in attempts to drive everyone out of the area in order to take over. The police have no credible information on any Amish take-over efforts. * A woman called police to report that a man called asking for money to remove a virus from her computer. The woman knew it was a scam since she did not own a computer. * A man called police stating he wanted to go back to the hospital for X-rays to see if the facility damaged his back after his back surgery. The man was transported to the hospital by ambulance. Feb. 27 * Police contacted two people preparing to paint a vehicle near Fernhill Road and Taylor Way. Both were advised to move to private property to complete this job after officers confirmed the car was not stolen and registered to one of the subjects. * A man called police with questions about ending a relationship. * Police stopped a vehicle on Pacific Avenue and found the driver to be under the influence of marijuana and prescription drugs. Later on Hwy 47, officers stopped another vehicle reportedly being driven by a drunk driver. This driver was also determined to be under the influence of marijuana and prescription drugs. Both drivers face charges. A plurality of Americans support Medicare for All, legislation endorsed by Bernie Sanders and other Democrats that would establish a universal single-payer health care system in the U.S. At least they do until they find out what single-payer really means. A recent AP poll found that 39 percent support and 33 oppose replacing the current private health insurance system in the U.S. with a single government-run and taxpayer-funded plan like Medicare for all Americans that would cover medical, dental, vision, and long-term care services. (Another 26 percent neither support nor oppose the change.) But the same percentage (39 percent) opposed single-payer when it was found that it would cause their own taxes to increase or theyd need to give up other coverage, like health insurance provided by their employers. In both cases, about 4 out of 10 flipped to opposition when they discovered that caveat. Even higher numbers opposed the plan if it would lead to longer wait-times for non-emergency medical services (47 percent) or if it took longer for new drugs and treatments to become available (51 percent). People say they believe in a principle, but when you describe the policy, it often loses support because they dont like that there are side effects, said Robert Blendon, a professor who tracks public opinion on health care at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health. So what exactly would an American version of single-payer plan look like? A single-payer system is one in which health-care providers are paid for their services by the government rather than by private insurers. Every year since 2003, Democrats in Congress have introduced H.R.676, the Expanded & Improved Medicare For All Act. The key provisions are that it would prohibit private health insurers from selling health insurance coverage that duplicates the benefits provided under the legislation and that it would raise taxes, including payroll taxes, to pay for the extended coverage. Not surprisingly, the legislation is vague on how much taxes would be raised, saying only that the increase in payroll taxes would be modest. But according to the National Institute for Health Care Reform, a national single-payer system would require a payroll tax of 11.7 percent. That means a family earning $50,000 a year would have to pay $5,850 in taxes for health care. And even that would not be enough to cover all the costs of health care. Even after all the new taxes proposed in Bernie Sanders plan (about $675 billion), the government would still fall $599 billion short of what the country actually spent on health care in 2013. Its hardly surprising, then, that when Americans discover the side effects of the single-payer system higher taxes, fewer choices, longer wait times for treatment they start to feel a bit queasy. Carol Janney, Ph.D., has joined Michigan State University College of Human Medicine as community health researcher and assistant professor of epidemiology and biostatistics. Janney will be developing programs to improve the mental and physical health of individuals with mental health issues in local communities throughout MidMichigan Healths service area. Janneys faculty position is based at the colleges Midland Regional Campus, one of the medical schools seven community campuses throughout the state. With offices at MidMichigan Medical Center - Midland, the campus provides hands-on training opportunities for medical students in hospital and outpatient settings throughout MidMichigan Healths service area. Community health researchers have also recently joined the campuses in Marquette and Traverse City, as part of a new effort by MSU College of Human Medicine to establish a statewide research network. A second research position is planned for the Midland area. MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, California -- After a month of training at Exercise Iron Fist 2016, U.S. Marines, sailors, and Japanese soldiers concluded Iron Fist training with a scenario based, battalion-sized amphibious landing exercise, or PHIBLEX, at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton on Feb. 24-27, 2016. PHIBLEX began with the insertion of reconnaissance and intelligence units ahead of the main-body landing, followed by an amphibious assault launched from the USS Somerset (LPD 25), airborne troop movements, and coordinated attacks from the beach deep into the training ranges of Camp Pendleton. Exercise Iron Fist is an annual exercise, which focuses on improving combined amphibious operation capabilities while simultaneously enhancing Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and U.S Marine Corps ability to plan, communicate and conduct amphibious operations at the platoon, company and battalions levels. Over the course of its five-week training schedule, U.S. Marines and sailors, and their Japanese counterparts trained sidebyside to hone their skills in a broad spectrum of military tasks, to include: combat marksmanship, sniper tactics, military planning, fire support operations, amphibious reconnaissance, casualty evacuation procedures and amphibious operations. This [Exercise Iron Fist] is the largest bilateral exercise conducted by the I Marine Expeditionary Force, here in southern California, said Brig. Gen. David Coffman, deputy commanding general, I Marine Expeditionary Force at a press conference during PHIBLEX. Its a shining example of U.S. and Japanese alliance at work. During PHIBLEX, more than a dozen Amphibious Assault Vehicles transported Marines from 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, I Marine Expeditionary Force, and Japanese soldiers from the Western Army Infantry Regiment, JGSDF, from ship-to-shore where they assaulted and secured a simulated contested beach before progressing to additional objectives further inland. Once on the beach, the Marines and Japanese soldiers established defensive perimeters and executed a series of spearheaded attacks on simulated combat towns using many of the skillsets they had worked on in the previous month of Iron Fist training. Since 2006, this bilateral exercise has showcased the partnership between the U.S. and Japan, and the dedication to the security treaty between the two countries. For more than 55 years, the U.S. and Japan have been security treaty allies, said Coffman. Our governments have pledged to strengthen the bond of peace and friendship between our two nations and to uphold the principles of democracy, liberty and the rule of law. This years Iron Fist saw the addition of a Japanese higher headquarters that partnered with the 11th MEUs command element and provided command and control for the two forces. The bilateral training with the U.S. Marine Corps for Iron Fist has directly allowed us to observe and learn the Marine Corps planning and operations skills, said Maj. Gen. Shinichi Aoki, deputy chief of staff (operations), Western Army, JGSDF. The training environment is great here and helped to promote a great opportunity to build our capabilities and practice them with the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit and I Marine Expeditionary Force. Training side-by-side allows both U.S. Marines and JSGDF soldiers to learn about each other, work through communication issues and move around the in same battlespace. By working closely with the JGSDF, U.S. forces have a familiar friend ready to respond quickly and effectively to crises that may occur in the Pacific Region. The Japan-U.S. alliance can help with counter-terrorism, counter-piracy, peacekeeping, capacity building, ballistic missile defense, and humanitarian assistance/disaster relief stated Coffman. This training is a testament to the discipline and spirit of the fine warriors youll see here today and very beneficial to both services as the Japanese Ground Self-Defense Force develops their Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, said Coffman. As the U.S. Marine Corps continues to conduct exercises with the JGSDF, their work here at Exercise Iron Fist 2016 paves the way for future coalition success as an expeditionary force in readiness. U.S. Army ammunition operations within the Korean theater of operations (KTO) are unique from those conducted in other locations. This uniqueness is due in large part to the Korean Armistice Agreement, which ended Korean War operations in 1953. An armistice is a ceasefire between military forces, whereas a treaty is an agreement between governments. The two nations never signed a peace treaty, so the Korean War never officially ended. At any moment hostilities could break out, so the mantra for U.S. Army units in Korea is "Fight Tonight." To ensure that U.S. Forces Korea (USFK) is ready to fight tonight, the ammunition community must be forward thinking and anticipate the needs of each unit in the KTO. COMBINED OPERATIONS USFK conducts combined ammunition operations with the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army. The Single Ammunition Logistics System-Korea (SALS-K) governs ammunition operations in the KTO. USFK and the ROK Ministry of National Defense established SALS-K in a memorandum of agreement (MOA) dated Nov. 25, 1974. The MOA, signed by the USFK commander at the time, Gen. Richard G. Stilwell, and the ROK minister of national defense, Suh Jyong Chul, outlines the receipt, storage, transportation, accountability, inventory, surveillance, demilitarization, maintenance, security, and issue of U.S. conventional ammunition in ROK ammunition depots, ammunition supply points (ASPs), and other facilities. SALS-K is a good example of the strong ROK-U.S. partnership from the strategic through tactical levels. At the strategic level, all U.S. ammunition, explosives, and components are stored in ROK ammunition depots and ASPs. USFK and the Army Materiel Command closely manage these items to ensure adequate ammunition is available and limited storage space is not overloaded. At the operational level, ammunition managers at USFK, Eighth Army, and the 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command (ESC) forecast future requirements and place requisitions to sustain operations, again without overloading storage space. Ammunition managers also plan the retrograde and demilitarization of obsolete ammunition and explosives to free up storage space. At the tactical level, the 6th Ordnance Battalion (6th OD), a subordinate unit of the 19th ESC and the Materiel Support Command-Korea, manages all U.S. ammunition and explosives in Korea. Supported U.S. units draw their ammunition from the 6th OD's ammunition companies, which are co-located at ROK ammunition depots and ASPs. Ultimately, the 6th OD coordinates from the tactical level with strategic enablers to ensure U.S. forces remain ready. TRANSFERRING AMMUNITION The SALS-K agreement also details the bygone War Reserve Stockpile for Allies-Korea (WRSA-K) program. WRSA-K required stockpiling U.S. conventional ammunition in the KTO to alleviate shortages in the ROK Army ammunition stocks. Once a sufficient amount of U.S. war reserve ammunition was stockpiled in the KTO, a strategic plan was required to transfer and position those assets at ROK Army ammunition depots and ASPs. This ammunition was owned by the United States but available to the ROK Army in the event of war. As time passed, much of this ammunition became obsolete either because of changes in equipment or the age of the ammunition. This required a new plan to dispose of the obsolete ammunition. The WRSA-K Termination Agreement became an act of public law in December 2005, and at the 40th U.S.-ROK Security Consultative Meeting in Washington, D.C., in October 2008, the United States and the ROK signed an MOA outlining the plan to transfer ammunition and terminate the WRSA-K program. The MOA outlines the specific transfer of munitions, equipment, and materiel from WRSA-K to the ROK and identifies what will be transferred and what the United States will retain. To retrograde the obsolete ammunition, USFK receives one Military Sealift Command vessel in the winter and one in the summer to transport containers of former WRSA-K ammunition to the continental United States (CONUS). Since 2009, USFK has retrograded more than 160,000 short tons of ammunition out of the KTO. All former WRSA-K ammunition must be retrograded by 2024.The WRSA-K MOA is an important part of ammunition management in the KTO because of the strategic implications of the negotiated time line and associated ammunition posture in Korea. In 2008, the former WRSA-K retrograde program began with nearly 258,000 short tons of ammunition needing to be retrograded out of the KTO. By October 2015, the 6th OD had significantly reduced the remaining amount to approximately 97,000 short tons. This mission requires the teamwork of U.S. Soldiers, Department of the Army civilians, ROK Army soldiers, Korean augmentation to the U.S. Army soldiers, Korean general schedule civilians, and Korean Service Corps (KSC) personnel. The team atmosphere in the KTO ammunition community enables innovative ideas to become reality. For example, starting in 2011, U.S. Army Pacific requested the use of Army pre-positioned stock landing craft utility ships to retrograde obsolete fuses and propellant to Japan for demilitarization. This forward-thinking idea led to cost savings. It shortened the time line for retrograde completion and is an example of partnership and collaboration in the KTO. DEMILITARIZATION FACILITY The ROK and U.S. governments also negotiated an agreement to construct a demilitarization facility (DEFAC) in order to further reduce the amount of obsolete and unserviceable ammunition in the KTO. A mutual logistics support agreement signed in November 2011 led to the completion of the DEFAC, which began processing munitions in September 2012. The DEFAC is an eco-friendly, closed-loop facility that efficiently demilitarizes both U.S. and ROK munitions, reducing the amount that requires retrograde. Processing a large array of munitions that includes small-arms ammunition, artillery projectiles, and fuses enables the DEFAC to reclaim materials for future use. Reclaimed flaked trinitrotoluene (better known as TNT) is packaged, shipped, and reused for other applications. By employing Korean nationals as operations and safety professionals, the DEFAC provides cost savings to the U.S. government and strengthens the ROK-U.S. alliance. 6TH OD OPERATIONS The 6th OD maintains all U.S. ammunition and explosives in the KTO and is the Army's only active duty ordnance ammunition battalion. Using ROK Army equipment, the 6th OD conducts daily combined ammunition operations with ROK ammunition units at ROK ammunition depots and ASPs. The 6th OD's operations include storing, accounting for, maintaining, and issuing ammunition, explosives, and components and using SALS-K and various web-based U.S. Army ammunition systems to maintain total ammunition visibility. The battalion also retrogrades former WRSA-K ammunition and demilitarizes artillery ammunition and propellant at the ROK Army DEFAC. The U.S. Army and the 6th OD are using ROK facilities, transportation assets, and personnel to receive, store, and issue U.S. ammunition. Under the SALS-K agreement, the United States pays a fair negotiated price for services rendered, which requires attention to detail during every step. Advanced planning, coordination, and meticulous record keeping aids in maintaining accurate accountability for expended resources. U.S. Army ammunition units operating at CONUS ASPs and ammunition depots must exercise the same care. However, the Soldiers, civilians, and contractors working there generally come from a common background, receive the same training, enjoy the same holidays, and speak the same language. KTO-based ammunition operations have an added challenge of a language barrier and a combined environment. This is a challenge that the wartime host-nation support (WHNS) ammunition units welcome as they work closely with their Korean counterparts. The 6th OD is the Army's only WHNS ordnance battalion. WHNS is logistics support provided by the ROK government from military and civilian resources to allow the rapid deployment of U.S. combat forces to the Korean Peninsula during a crisis. U.S. logistics units and equipment may reinforce or replace WHNS assets later in the fight. Usually, WHNS assets are in the form of trucks, facilities, communications, food, or personnel from the KSC. In the case of the 6th OD, WHNS includes the ammunition depots and ASPs, forklifts and other materials-handling equipment, and site security provided by the ROK Army. Full-time KSC personnel are also assigned to the 6th OD along with Korean national civilian workers. Every day, the 6th OD interacts with ROK Army ammunition units at the ammunition depots and ASPs. KTO BENEFITS Personnel from the 6th OD find unique opportunities to use their expertise in ammunition management, expand their knowledge, and challenge their skills in a diverse environment. In the KTO, ordnance Soldiers conduct their branch-specific duties daily in the ammunition depots and ASPs. In contrast, CONUS-based ammunition Soldiers only augment civilian personnel as they conduct ASP operations. Ammunition warrant officers are also afforded a unique opportunity in the KTO. Accountable officer positions are limited in CONUS, but there are three accountable officer positions in the 6th OD, each responsible for several ammunition depots or ASPs and each with a slightly different mission focus. The accountable officers manage daily operations at several locations and work alongside Soldiers, Army civilians, Korean nationals, KSC personnel, and ROK Army soldiers. This unique experience is only found in Korea, so the 6th OD may be a good fit for personnel with a sense of adventure and advancement. Korea is also a great place for ammunition specialists to become experts in automation systems. On a daily basis, ammunition Soldiers use automated information systems such as the Standard Army Ammunition System-Modernization, Worldwide Ammunition Reporting System-New Technology, Total Ammunition Management Information System, Munitions History Program, and National Level Ammunition Capability. The armistice mission in the KTO affords the same opportunities as a deployment for system users. For the Soldiers who actually work on the systems, this means that they have the opportunity to be mentored by experienced noncommissioned officers, warrant officers, and civilians who are experts in their trades. The KTO experience of mentorship and daily on-the-job experience molds well-rounded ammunition Soldiers. As the United States continues to focus on the Pacific, the KTO will undoubtedly remain important. The many KTO-unique ammunition missions, such as the WRSA-K retrograde, SALS-K, WHNS, and the DEFAC, present rewarding challenges and are important to shaping the Pacific. KTO ammunition Soldiers are part of a future force that deters aggression by always being ready to fight tonight. Earlier today I pointed out that a plurality of Americans support single-payer health care until they found out what it is. I suspect the same may be true for free college, another proposal endorsed by Bernie Sanders and others on the political left who want America to be more like Europe. As Samuel Goldman explains, Americans dont actually want the kind of stripped-down higher education that could be provided at public expense. The European comparison is useful. A Washington Post piece recently praised Germany for allowing students from around the world to enroll at its universities without charge. What German universities offer in exchange was not discussed. More specifically, the piece didnt mention the services German universities usually dont provide. Here is a partial list: * Sports. * Dorms. * Elaborate food and other amenities. * Subsidized clubs and extracurricular activities. * Academic remediation. * Flexibility in majors. German universities, in other words, are different from what most Americans have in mind when they think of college. Even the most famous are fairly spartan institutions, in which most students live at home or in private housing, with a minimum of academic and personal oversight. Classes are generally large lectures at which attendance is strictly optional. Graduation is based on rigorous exams rather than modular coursework. And students choose their subjects of concentration prior to enrollment, and switching is not easy. Read more . . . Every day in the Republic of Korea (ROK), the 19th Expeditionary Sustainment Command (ESC), also known as Team 19, synchronizes and executes sustainment operations in support of the Eighth Army and U.S. Forces Korea (USFK). The sustainers of Team 19 are challenged to continuously improve their skills while maintaining an expeditionary mindset. Although the Korean Armistice Agreement has been in place for over 62 years, recent events demonstrate that the armistice could transition to a contingency operation at any moment, underscoring the critical requirement to maintain "Fight Tonight" readiness at all times. THE 19TH ESC Korea is a rewarding place to serve and a challenging proving ground for warfighter logisticians. It provides ample opportunities for sustainers to hone their crafts while playing an essential part in deterrence on the peninsula. Over the course of their assignments with Team 19, Soldiers exponentially increase their tactical warfighting skills, knowledge base, and leadership abilities while becoming world-class sustainers who are ready to lead Army sustainment into the future. Headquartered in Daegu, ROK, the 19th ESC is the only theater-committed, forward-deployed ESC in the Army. It provides mission command for sustainment operations in Korea and connects strategic sustainment capability with tactical requirements. It executes joint distribution; reception, staging, onward movement, and integration; and Army executive agent logistics support for USFK. The 19th ESC commander serves as the senior responsible officer for Area IV, which is the southern hub for sustainment and power projection on the peninsula. The ESC consists of approximately 5,600 assigned personnel spread across the Korean theater of operations. The 19th ESC has a long and distinguished history in Korea. It was first activated as the 19th General Support Command in Seoul on July 15, 1964. The command's headquarters relocated to Daegu as part of the consolidation of the Eighth Army's Support Command and Depot Command in 1972. Over the next 30 years, the command was redesignated multiple times, changing from a command to a brigade to a Theater Army Area Command until it became the 19th ESC on December 16, 2005. ORGANIZATIONS Today, the 19th ESC has subordinate units spread from Busan in the south to the Joint Security Area in the north. Collectively, the 19th ESC comprises a team of professionals, including Soldiers, Department of the Army civilians, and Korean nationals, who provide sustainment for all U.S. forces in the ROK. During armistice operations, Team 19 is composed of the Materiel Support Command-Korea (MSC-K) and the 94th Military Police (MP) Battalion. During contingencies, this would expand as additional sustainment units deploy to the peninsula. MSC-K consists of three tactical battalions (the 25th Transportation Battalion, the 6th Ordnance Battalion, and the 498th Combat Support Sustainment Battalion), the Korean Service Corps Battalion, and the theater's maintenance and supply Industrial Base. 25TH TRANSPORTATION BATTALION The 25th Transportation Battalion, working closely with ROK counterparts, coordinates and schedules all U.S. military movements on the peninsula. Every day, the 25th Transportation Battalion works with the Korea Railroad Corporation to facilitate rail movements. During contingency operations, the battalion partners with the ROK Transportation Command at all of the ROK Army's 4-star headquarters, which include the Capital Defense Command, First ROK Army, Third ROK Army, and the 2nd Operational Command. Over the past two years, the battalion has coordinated more than 17,000 movement requests, 206 unit deployments, five rotational unit deployments, 30 Korean Marine Exchange Program deployments for the III Marine Expeditionary Force, and two Pacific Pathways exercises. 6TH ORDNANCE BATTALION The 6th Ordnance Battalion is the only active duty battalion of its type. The battalion's Soldiers store, maintain, and issue all U.S. ammunition and explosives on the peninsula. It works side by side with ROK Army soldiers in ROK ammunition depots and supply points using ROK Army equipment. It also makes ammunition operations on the peninsula safer by retrograding or demilitarizing obsolete ammunition. Since May 2013, it has retrograded over 54,737 short tons of ammunition and explosives. Along with the 120th ROK Army Infantry Regiment, the 6th Ordnance Battalion conducted the first ever combined base defense exercise at Camp Carroll and two remains excavation exercises. KOREAN SERVICE CORPS BATTALION The Korean Service Corps Battalion, which was established in 1950 to augment U.S. sustainment operations, is the largest U.S. battalion on the peninsula. Today this unique organization is involved in virtually all of the Eighth Army's major missions. The battalion conducts reception operations at Incheon International Airport, moves major combat systems for the 2nd Infantry Division using its heavy equipment transporter company, maintains combat systems in motor pools, and maintains and stores supplies and ammunition at central issue facilities and ammunition depots. Comprising 17 companies during armistice operations, the battalion can expand to have more than 146 companies and over 21,000 paramilitary Korean nationals during a contingency. THE INDUSTRIAL BASE The MSC-K Industrial Base operates in 19 facilities across Camp Carroll. It is co-located with Defense Logistics Agency (DLA) Distribution Korea and the Army Field Support Battalion-Northeast Asia, which manages Army pre-positioned stocks stored in the Pacific. The Industrial Base is organized into directorates and divisions and led by Department of the Army civilians and local national Korean employees. This organization gives the Eighth Army depot-level capabilities that enhance readiness while saving transportation costs and time. Using Industrial Base facilities significantly reduces the average turnaround time for repairs and increases readiness for critical combat systems. 94TH MP BATTALION Team 19 also includes the 94th MP Battalion, the only MP battalion on the peninsula and the largest forward deployed MP battalion in the Army. The "Polar Bear" battalion has a diverse mission; every day it has more than 400 MP personnel working across the peninsula to provide law enforcement, criminal investigation, military working dog, close protection, and traffic accident investigation services. Headquartered at Camp Humphreys, the battalion has companies stationed throughout the peninsula, patrolling from the sea to the Demilitarized Zone. While supporting law and order, they also make time to conduct Polar Bear Tactical Training. This training consists of gunnery qualifications and lanes training that test the Soldiers' ability to perform their wartime mission and that determine their proficiency as it relates to the units' mission essential task list. One platoon at a time from each company plans and executes collective training to improve tactical and law enforcement skills. PARTNERSHIPS By working with multiple strategic partners, the 19th ESC integrates and synchronizes strategic sustainment capabilities with operational and tactical requirements throughout the peninsula. These partners include the Army Materiel Command's 403rd Army Field Support Brigade, the Military Surface Deployment and Distribution Command's 837th Transportation Battalion, the Defense Contract Management Agency-Korea, the 411th Contracting Support Brigade, the U.S. Army Medical Materiel Center-Korea, DLA Energy, and DLA Distribution. Another unique and critical part of the 19th ESC mission is the combined nature of all of its operations in Korea. By closely working with ROK Army counterparts, to include the ROK 2nd Operational Command, First ROK Army, Third ROK Army, the ROK Transportation Command, and the ROK Logistics Command, the 19th ESC builds on the strong alliance between the United States and the ROK to improve effectiveness and efficiency in sustaining units throughout the Korean theater of operations. In conjunction with its partners, Team 19 manages the southern hub, which is the sustainment and power projection backbone for the peninsula. It works closely with the U.S. Army Garrison Daegu to improve installation capabilities and services that enable the sustainment mission and improve quality of life for Soldiers, civilians, and families that live in the area. Additionally, the ESC's outreach efforts through community relations programs such as the Korean American Friendship Circle and the USFK Good Neighbor Program, combined with continued relationships with local governments, help promote partnerships and cultural understanding between Team 19 and the surrounding communities. Every day, Team 19 warfighters execute sustainment operations in support of USFK and the Eighth Army, improving their skill sets while maintaining readiness. Korea is an assignment of choice; it is a challenging proving ground that provides great opportunities for sustainers to hone their crafts and play an essential part in deterrence on the peninsula. Team 19 works closely with its ROK counterparts to train its Soldiers and leaders. At the conclusion of an assignment with Team 19, a sustainer is more capable and ready to lead. As it has done for more than 50 years, Team 19 continues to strengthen the alliance while remaining ready to Fight Tonight. How young were you when you started having sex? San Francisco, California, fears that young children may actually be thinking of already doing the deed. Surprisingly, they are now handing out condoms to middle schoolers -- kids between ages 11 and 14. Predictably, parents are furious about it, with many of them saying that the school board members are sending the wrong message: that it is okay to have sex at such a young age. Still, CBS News noted that the San Francisco Unified School Board voted on the issue unanimously, which is why schools can now distribute contraception to middle schoolers if they seek a consultation with the school nurse. The kids would have access to condoms even without their parents consent, and this does not sit too well with them. One parent demanded, "We have to sign a consent form for them to go on a field trip, but we don't need to know if they're getting a condom?" Another noted, "We're talking about between 11 and 14 years old. And they are not ready for it, so I don't think this is appropriate." Advocates who agree with the school board did point out though that kids are becoming sexually active whether their parents know it or not, and distributing condoms is a preventative measure. A teacher explained, "We don't see the kind of sexualized images and videos that our children are exposed to. And these kids are starting younger and younger every single day." This issue is something between a rock and a hard place for parents who want what's best for their children. On one hand, no parent would want their child to have sex too early, and handing out condoms to middle schoolers might send them the wrong message. However, if these kids are in fact doing it, safe sex is the only thing that a parent could ask for. What do you think of this school board's decision about giving pre-teens access to contraceptives? Hit the comment box below. It's Leap Year once again and February gets to have another day. February 29, Leap Day, only occurs every four years and is filled with traditions and superstitions. Julius Caesar was the one responsible for coming up with an extra day during the leap year. The Earth takes more the sun in some years. In order for them to come up with a fixed calendar, Julius Caesar added an extra day on the month of February to fill in the gap. The year with the additional day is known as the Leap Year, which only occurs every four years as reported by the Telegraph. Since it seldom happens, the Leap Day (February 29) is a day allotted for superstitions and traditional beliefs. Most traditions are being linked to cultural significance of the country it is being celebrated on. Listed below are a few Leap Year traditions and superstitions celebrated on the around the world. Wedding Proposals It's the time of the year wherein ladies can finally bend their knees and pop the question. The tradition started back in the fifth century in the days of the Irish Saint, Brigid of Kildare, after she convinced Saint Patrick to set a date for woman to propose to their suitors. Leap year marriages are more likely to fail, think-tank warns https://t.co/4wklQZfSN6 pic.twitter.com/AFpXhPOeJN The Telegraph (@Telegraph) February 28, 2016 After the announcement was rolled out, she then knelt before Saint Patrick and proposed to him. He declined her proposal, but he gave her a kiss and silk gown to make up for the embarrassment. It was then brought from Ireland to Scotland back in 1288 according to Huffington Post. Harvest Aside from the Leap Year proposal in Scotland, the country also believes in the superstition brought about by the 29th of February. According to Inquisitr, people in Scotland considers the extra day as something unlucky for those who are farming. According to the Encyclopedia of Superstitions, Folklore and the Occult Sciences of the World, "Nothing shall be built, planned or planted in a leap year; it does not prosper. The whole vegetable world is affected by the influences of leap year. The peas and beans grow the wrong way in their pods, and seeds are set in quite the contrary way to what they are in other years." A 4-year-old boy found himself in the center of a rescue mission after he got his arm stuck in a vending machine. Now, the child is recovering in a hospital. On Sunday, Feb.28, shortly after midday, rescuers were called to the apartment complex on Lonsdale Street, where the crew has found Leo Shorthouse with his hand trapped in the anti-theft flaps of the machine. Aaron Shorthouse, the child's father, said they are from Arnhem Land and his child had never seen a vending machine before. And the ordeal started after his son saw a packet of Oreo biscuits inside the said machine. The Metropolitan Fire Brigade did everything they can to carefully free Leo, who was in considerable distress at that time. The team also tried to calm the child by showing him some cartoons through a smartphone. But at one point, the rescuers sedated the trapped boy. Sgt Ali Gurdag of Victoria police said that it was a very challenging situation for him as well as for the whole rescuers. Although it was a very challenging rescue mission, he said that the child was "stoic" throughout the operation. "The fortitude of the little fellow is just amazing," he further added to the Herald Sun. Talking about the ordeal, Mr. Shorthouse said it was a very exhausting moment. It was very tough for him to see his son trapped while rescuers worked and did everything they could to free him. And after the lengthy ordeal, he praised and thanked the rescue team for saving his son "I must say the firies and the police were actually amazing," he said to 7 News Melbourne via The Age. "They were incredible." After the boy was freed, he was taken to Royal Children's Hospital. "He's fine after five-and-a-half hours," Mr. Shorthouse said. "He was a bit inquisitive, he put his hand in the vending machine, but yes he's good now." Champagne is a celebratory drink, used to mark events and moments in our lives that we wish to remember. Many imbibers keep the cork and muselet (champagne wire cap) to remember the celebration. But if youre like me, those caps and corks just pile up and end up lurking in a drawer, diminishing the memory rather than honoring it. Enter Wearing Memories Kiron Barui, an Australian-based designer that crafts those muselets into memories you can wear. The ideas came about in 2011, when the Toowoomba floods destroyed her hometown. Kiron had been saving Champagne bottles for a special occasion, and while this wasnt a childs college graduation, there was a carpe diem moment of gratitude. After writing the dates and memories on the cap and shaping the muselet wire like a ring, an idea was born. Wearing Memories has been designing bespoke jewelry since 2012, and has made quite a splash, showing at Paris and London Fashion Week and being sold at Harrods of Londons Champagne Bar. Prices, like Champagne, are not low, starting at $350 a piece. Madina Papadopoulos is a New York-based freelance writer, author and regular contributor to Paste. You can follow her drink adventures on Instagram and Twitter. 1 of 17 2 of 17 3 of 17 4 of 17 5 of 17 6 of 17 7 of 17 8 of 17 9 of 17 10 of 17 Characterizing Millennials support for Bernie Sanders as naive or a result of trendy behavior is easy; its also dismissive and simplistic. Millennials have often been the subject of criticism from the political media, especially due to their presupposed political apathy. But this apathy has been misdiagnosed; Millennials are passionate, but frustrated with a broken political system. It comes as no surprise that Millennials have turned to a candidate thats fighting for a political revolution. But Bernie Sanders is more than just anti-establishment; his record is honest, his vision is inspiring, and his humor connects to Millennials in a way that most politicians just cant. It comes as no shock that Millennials would support an anti-establishment candidate for president. They were raised to believe that they could conquer the world, yet they lived through the largest financial crisis since the Great Depression. The endless opportunities offered to Millennials crumbled before their eyes thanks to the reckless behavior of the huge American financial institutions. Its no wonder that Millennials level of trust in the government is at a historical low. College affordability is also at an all-time low, and many Millennials are in extreme debt. Millennials seek more than change in the US political-fiscal system, and Bernie seems like just the man to do it. From fighting the big banks that crumbled the US economy, to lowering the costs of public universities, Bernie Sanders ideology aligns with Millennials on most, if not all, of these issues. But how does a generation with such minimal trust in the government believe in Bernie Sanders? Bernies record speaks for itself. He voted against repealing the Glass-Steagall act, a key regulation that led to the 2008 financial crisis, and he supports a bill proposed by Senator Elizabeth Warren, which would reinstate Glass-Steagall. He isnt backed by big money, demonstrating that hes not beholden to the interests of big moneyjust those of the voters. Bernies honesty is his biggest draw with Millennials; although the idea may be an oxymoron, Bernie is a politician that they feel they can trust. Bernies ideas are honest, founded on his record, but they are also inspiring. Theres a reason Millennials arent flocking to Hillarys pragmatism they dont want it. Bernie offers a future worth believing in, one that gives hope to fiscally precarious, and otherwise politically unimpressed individuals. Moreover and crucially, inspiring ideas and passing progressive legislation dont have to be mutually exclusive. Sometimes, our political system can be a joke. Bernie pokes fun at it in an honest way that connects to his Millennial audience. At his Eastern Michigan EMU rally, Bernie demonstrated the perceived unbelievability and simultaneous feasibility of lofty ideas. He told a story about how someone six years ago might have reacted to you predicting legalized same-sex marriage in 2016. According to Bernie, they would have asked, What are you smoking? And he was probably right. The idea of legalized same sex marriage would have seemed crazy and completely infeasible six years ago, or even two years ago. Feasibility can be quickly overcome with voter mobilization, and this issue Bernie is great at picking out. His humor and his honesty connect to Millennials; after all, how can you not love that joke? At this point, you may have figured out that, shockingly, I am a Millennial. When Bernie Sanders came to Eastern Michigans campus, I was one of about 10,000 individuals to attend the rally. I skipped three classes, and showed up to wait in line an hour before the doors opened, three full hours before he was scheduled to speak. I was still only in the middle of the full line. As I looked around the auditorium, the seats were full, and I spotted many other Millennials in the audience. We all waited outside in the frozen tundra that is Michigan just to see Bernie speak. If Millennials are willing to wait outside in the cold for hours, I anticipate theyll rally for him in the polls. And next time someone asks you why Millennials love Bernie, remind them that its no surprise. We really do feel the Bern. As Chris Rock delivered his scathing critique of Hollywoods sorority racism at the Oscars last night, a number of other black entertainers were busy taking action to combat the water crisis in Flint. Ava DuVernay, Ryan Coogler, Stevie Wonder, Vic Mensa, Hannibal Buress, and Janelle Monae were among the performers at the #JusticeForFlint benefit, which streamed live on Revolt.tv and has thus far raised more than $145,000 for the Michigan citys residents. Folks are standing up for Flint! Since last night's #JusticeForFlint show, 3635 activists have raised their voices w/ $145k toward recovery! Ava DuVernay (@AVAETC) February 29, 2016 Local students and artists provided moving accounts of the citys struggles in between major acts. Mensa premiered a new track called 16 Shots at the event, in reference to Laquan McDonalds death at the hands of Chicago policeman Jason Van Dyke, and Wonder delivered an impassioned critique of the government officials who allowed the crisis to happen. You can replay the event on Revolt.tv for the rest of the day. When it comes to beer, there are a ton of choices out there, with more being added everyday. This year were trying something new, and rounding up some of our fave new finds each month. Some of the brews we did full reviews on, while others are just special gems we found on tap while we were out and about that we think you should know about. Check out our favorite beers from January here. By no means a comprehensive list of everything new that came out (we can only drink so much!), here are some of our favorites from February that wed recommend you grabbing a pint of while youre out with friends, or picking up a few bottles of at your local bottle shop. Discover something new this month that you absolutely love? Be sure to tell us about it in the comments! Style: Barrel-aged DIPA ABV: 10.5% We got our hands on a bottle of Breckenridges Barrel Aged 471 Double IPA this month, and absolutely loved it. The mouthfeel is soft and silky, but not too rich. It all works together to create an incredibly enticing beer that is big and bold, but not over the top. We got ahold of the Simcoe dry-hopped brew for our review his month. The whiskey barrel covers up some of those hoppier notes youd expect from a double IPA, but you can still find layers of pine and citrus under the barrel. Style: American IPA ABV: 7.5% Tree House Brewing has only been around for less than four years, but its already pumping out some pretty fantastic brews. Green provides a hoppy bite on the back-end of every sip. Its ability to transition from straight juice to a resinous-malt backbone flawlessly is what makes Green so incredibly rounded. We gave the brew a 9.8/10. Style: Herbed/Spiced beer ABV: 5.9% Youve probably heard of Small Towns Not Your Fathers Root Beer. The alcoholic soda was one of the first to make a big splash. Its pretty delicious, and the Ginger Ale follows its lead fairly well. Even better, the alcoholic soda can also be used as a mixer for cocktails you might be making, giving that Dark & Stormy or Whiskey and Ginger and extra kick. Style: Imperial IPA ABV: 10.25% Its that time again. Russian River released Pliny the Younger, its highly-coveted triple IPA, this month. In an interview prior to its release, brewmaster Vinnie Cilurzo told us that he thinks Younger is perhaps the closest the brewery has gotten to perfection for the beer. Russian River only brews 180 barrels of Younger each year, making it a beer that fans will line up for sometimes days in advance. If you happen to catch it on draft, make sure you grab a glass. Style: American Pale Ale ABV: 5.5% You may have heard about 18th Street in the last few years. Situated in the rather unlikely craft beer burg of Gary, Indiana, theyve been making waves and have slowly become one of those IT breweries that people make a point out of bringing to bottle shares and similar beer geek peacocking functions. We tried Jade this month, and gave the beer a 7.8/10. Its a classical American pale ale in construction, but with a twist: It specifically features Pacific Jade hops. On the palate, youre greeted with lots of herbal flavors, and a bit of a musty maltiness, with mid-strength caramel and more toasted malt flavors as well. Its a unique palette of flavors we recommend definitely trying out for yourself. Style: Saison/ Farmhouse Ale ABV: 6.2% When you hear Pinot Noir Saison, you might think youre going to be drinking a beer with a ton of wine flavor. Thats not the case with Burials Pinot Noir Haysaw Saison.Dont expect a heavy dose of vinous wine flavor here, but what you can look forward to is a complex beer that offers a unique take on the saison/farmhouse style. Theres a depth of flavor that drinks more like a hybrid of a saison and a traditional Belgian ale rather than a straightforward farmhouse beer. If youre a big fan of those traditional Belgian styles, but havent yet ventured into saisons, this is worth seeking out. We gave the beer an 8.5/10 when we reviewed it earlier this month. Style: Barrel-aged Imperial Stout ABV: 11.5% We tried three different versions of The Abyss this month: Cognac Aged, Rye Whiskey Aged, and the 2015 Reserve. Of the three, our fave was the version aged in Cognac barrels. It has a sweet, cordial-like nose, which makes sense because of the year spent in Cognac barrels, but the booze also comes through in the nose. Style: American Wild Ale ABV: 5.9% MeeMaw is a red wine barrel-aged sour with local wild cherries, Montmorency cherries and cherry wood. The nose sets you up for the first sip nicely, as the mixture of wild yeast funk and tart cherry flavors dance nicely on the palette. Theres a punch of sour at the front that fades to a flavorful blend of funkiness and fruit. If you like sour beers, theres plenty of that here, but you can also taste the other ingredients along the way. Meemaw is a very drinkable wild ale, one that doesnt leave you feeling like the enamel is being stripped from your teeth. We gave the brew a 9.2/10 when we reviewed it earlier this month. And ah, hell, lets do one more favorite. Because this list goes to 11. Style: American Pale Ale ABV: 5.5% This baby won our massive blind pale ale taste test in February. Needless to say the competition was stiff, but Bone-A-Fide won over tasters, who gave this beer the very rare rating of 100. To quote directly from that 100-point score sheet: Gorgeous hop aroma/flavor. Huge floral, tropical fruit and honey malt flavors. Fan-damn-tastic. Our own Jim Vorel goes on to say that the flavors in Bone-A-Fide arent just big, theyre staggeringly complex with waves of tropical fruit (pineapple, passionfruit) on the nose, along with citrus, but also an almost peppery spiciness. Its sweet without being cloying, light of body without being watery, hugely flavorful while being drinkable. It barges in and puts your taste buds on notice. And thats why this 10 item list goes to 11. B is for Bernie: Presidents have more latitude in foreign affairs than in domestic policy, and the trend over the past two administrations has been for presidents to be more hawkish than their campaign pledges led voters to expect. George W. Bush promised a humble foreign policy. Instead, he gave us the Iraq War. Barack Obama was elected in part to end Bushs wars. But he too pursued regime change, with Pyrrhic success in Libya and abortively in Syria. These examples are alarming precedents for the next administration. The Democrats and Republicans vying for their parties nominations have staked out a range of positions on the wars in Iraq, Syria, and Libya, as well as on the nuclear deal with Iran and relations with Russia in light of Vladimir Putins aggression toward Ukraine. The different magnitudes of U.S. military spending the contenders propose also suggest something about how interventionist each will prove to be. Campaign statements are not, however, a sure guide to what anyone will do in office. TAC has assessed the the five Republicans and two Democrats who remain in the contest and graded their policies on these issues. We award good grades for restraint and bad grades for policies suggestive of interventionism. Before Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or YouTube made their entry in the media market, the PatnaDaily had already registered its presence in... Rohtas: With both Lalu Prasad Yadav (RJD) and Nitish Kumar (JD-U) vying for prominence for their role in the proposed merger of the 'Janata Parivar' that invariably contains contradictory messages, the RJD chief, at a public rally in Dehri in Rohtas district on Wednesday, once again confirmed that the merger of the six like-minded parties had already taken place and a formal announcement would be made on April 14 in New Delhi. "The merger of the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Janata Dal-U, Samajwadi Party (SP), Indian National Lok Dal (INLD), Samajwadi Janata Party (SJP), and Janata Dal-Secular (JD-S) has already taken place. Now only the formality of an announcement is left and that would be made following a meeting of the representatives of all six parties on April 14 in Delhi. We will be under one party name and under one electoral symbol," the former Chief Minister of Bihar said amidst roars of applause. This is in sharp contrast from the words coming out of Nitish Kumar's mouth who has refrained from declaring the merger was a done deal. Instead, he had been careful in describing the development using rhetoric like 'things are moving in the right direction'. Yadav also warned the 'communal forces', read the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), to not live in a state of illusion as people of Bihar were smart enough to discern what was good for Bihar and what was not. "I am here to tell them that the politics of lies is not going to work," the RJD leader thundered. Still not ready to give legitimacy to the Narendra Modi-led NDA government despite the BJP's historical win in the last Lok Sabha elections, Yadav said that the BJP's victory was based on lies, rumors, and negative propaganda on social media and he had taken upon himself to expose the party of communal leaders who, he said, believed in playing one community against other to score political success. Meanwhile, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar held a joint meeting of the 'Janata Parivar' legislators at his residence on 7 Circular Road in Patna. The meeting was reportedly organized to remove any doubt among the naysayers who feel the merger may not be in the best interest of the JD-U and Kumar's growing proximity with the RJD chief could only hurt the party. Iranian activist sentenced for criticizing government on Facebook 02/28/16 Source: Radio Zamaneh Iranian activist Zartosh Ahmadi Ragheb was sentenced to six months in jail by the authorities for writing material critical of the government on his Facebook page. The court's sentence was issued last week, and he has 20 days to appeal the decision. Zartosh Ahmadi Ragheb (L) at a protest gathering The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reports that Ahmadi Ragheb was summoned by the authorities in November and tried on the charge of propaganda against the regime. He had also been previously arrested for trying to join the gathering of the families and supporters of political prisoners in front of the Dena Tire Company in Vanak Square in Tehran. Supporters of political prisoners regularly gather there to demand the release of political prisoners. Ahmad Ragheb was arrested along with prominent dissident Mohammad Nourizad, an Iranian journalist and filmmaker. Rohani, Reformist Allies Make Gains Against Conservative Rivals In Elections 02/28/16 Source: RFE/RL Iranian officials said on February 28 that with 90 percent of the votes counted in the country's elections, President Hassan Rohani's reformist allies have won all 30 of Tehran's contested seats in the 290-seat parliament. "House Cleaning in Parliament": Headline on front page of daily Etemad With the vote count nearing completion, results also showed reformists gaining against rival hard-liners in the Assembly of Experts -- a body tasked with choosing Irans next supreme leader. The February 26 election was the first in Iran since the lifting of international sanctions under a nuclear accord reached by Rohani's government and world powers. The reformist gains come despite the disqualification of thousands of candidates by hard-liners on Iran's powerful Guardian Council. A woman voting in Tehran (photo by Islamic Republic News Agency) Rohani and his ally, the pragmatic former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, have won the majority of votes in the race for the Assembly of Experts in Tehran, according to the latest results.The Iranian capital will send 16 candidates to the assembly. Rafsanjani came first and Rohani second, according to results issued by the Interior Ministry, which is conducting the elections. Hard-line cleric Ahmad Jannati, who chairs the powerful Guardian Council, is in 15th position. Solid victory of "list of hope" in Tehran (source: Shargh daily) Reformists had urged voters to vote for a coalition of pro-reform and relative moderate candidates to prevent the reelection of Jannati and two other ultraconservative clerics -- Mohammad Yazdi and Mohammad Taghi Mesbah Yazdi -- to the assembly. Ayatollah Yazdi, the current chairman of the assembly, was in 15th position. Ayatollah Mesbah Yazdi could lose his seat according to the results, which have not been yet finalized. A group of young women take a selfie after voting in Tehran (photo by Islamic Republic News Agency) In a statement issued on February 27 after the release of the initial results, Rohani said his government would cooperate with anyone elected in the vote. "The competition is over. It's time to open a new chapter in Iran's economic development based on domestic abilities and international opportunities," Rohani said in the statement issued by the government news agency IRNA. For his part, Rafsanjani called for unity and cooperation among different factions. "The competition is over and the phase of unity has arrived," Rafsanjani said. cartoon by Hossein Safi, Arman daily Ali Mazrouei, a former reformist lawmaker who now resides in France, told RFE/RL's Radio Farda that the make-up of Irans future parliament is likely to be "different" from the current one dominated by hard-liners. I think the parliament will be relatively moderate, Mazrouei said in a telephone interview. "The government could have more support in the parliament," he added. Votes are still being counted on February 28, two days after the elections. . Earlier forecasts made by the semiofficial Fars and Mehr News agencies indicate moderates and independents linked to them were leading so far against hard-liners in several cities, while conservatives appeared to have the upper hand elsewhere. The semiofficial ILNA news agency said on February 27 that five women had been definitely elected to the parliament. The Interior Ministry said about 60 percent of eligible voters, about 35 million Iranians, had cast ballots in the twin elections. A family pose for photo after voting in Tehran (photo by Islamic Republic News Agency) During its next eight-year term it could name the successor to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has been in power since 1989. The 76-year-old is not thought to be in the best of health. Before the vote, reformists had complained that the Guardian Council, which supervises elections, refused to approve many of their most prominent candidates. Only 40 percent of some 12,000 candidates were approved by the Guardian Council to run. Copyright (c) 2016 RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. www.rferl.org 'Tehran is Now Free' -- Iranian Election Results Spark Gleeful And Humorous Response On Social Media 02/28/16 By Golnaz Esfandiari, RFE/RL A group of young supporters of the reformist camp flash victory signs after voting in Tehran on Friday February 26. The success of the reformists and relative moderates has given rise to a wave of jokes across Iranian social media. Many pro-reform Iranians who voted in the February 26 elections for the parliament and the Assembly of Experts, mainly to make sure fewer hard-liners get elected, have been sharing jokes about what appears to be a landslide win for reformists and relative moderates in the Iranian capital. "Dear citizens! Attention please, attention please: Tehran is now free," said a message widely shared on social media, including on the hugely popular, anonymous messaging app Telegram, which remains unfiltered despite pressure from hard-liners. The joke started making the rounds on February 27 right after preliminary results showed that allies of President Hassan Rohani had made a clean sweep of all 30 parliament seats in the capital. Rohani and his ally, former President Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, are also leading the race in Tehran for the powerful Assembly of Experts, which has the power to select the country's next supreme leader. A young woman votes in Tehran (source: Islamic Republic News Agency) Hard-line former parliament speaker Haddad Adel ended up being the butt of many jokes when, at one point, it appeared that he would be the sole conservative likely to make it to the new legislature from the Tehran constituency. ((He appears to have been eliminated, according to the latest results.) One popular Telegram joke described Haddad Adel forlornly resting his head on the legs of Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and telling him: 'I won't go the parliament!!!'" Khamenei responds by saying: "Don't be afraid, my little one. You'll find new friends.'" Another joke, also shared on Telegram, said: "To keep things calm, [the head of the Guardian Council Ayatollah] Jannati has told reformist candidate Mohammad Reza Aref [who's leading the parliament race in Tehran]:" Take this kid with you, he will promise to be good. Right, Gholamali [Haddad Adel]?" Reformists had campaigned to push Jannati and two other ultra-hardline clerics, Ayatollah Mohammad Yazdi and Ayatollah Mesbah Yazdi, out of the new Assembly of Experts, which could end up choosing the successor to 76-year-old Khamenei who underwent prostate surgery in 2014. According to preliminary results, Yazdi and Mesbah Yazdi appear to have lost their seats and Jannati's fate seems to be hanging by a thread. "Don't push me [out]!" pleads Jannati in one Telegram skit, a reference to the fact that he is currently languishing in 15th place near the bottom of the list of assembly candidates from Tehran. Another popular joke alludes to the house arrest of Iranian opposition figures Mir Hossein Musavi, his wife, university professor Zahra Rahnavard, and fellow reformist cleric Mehdi Karrubi. The three oppositionists, who seem to enjoy enduring popularity, were put under house arrest in February 2011 after repeatedly challenging the Iranian establishment over the 2009 disputed presidential vote and criticizing human rights abuses. The joke has the trio declaring that "if Jannati doesn't get elected, we will take to the streets to protest and claim we're his supporters so that they put him under house arrest." Several jokes also highlighted the reformist-win in Tehran and perceived concerns among Iran's hard-liners that the contagion could spread to the rest of the country. One of the most widespread Telegram memes had hard-line Ayatollah Makarem Shirazi, declaring that it was"haram" [forbidden] to continue counting votes Plenty of Twitter users also riffed on the same theme: Joke from Iran: if the election count continues for a while longer, the Shah will return. #IranElections2016 https://t.co/BErfYDsnn2 Saam A. Borhani (@comprehendiran) February 27, 2016 TRANSLATION: Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei: "Please end the vote counting. Please don't stretch it any longer." People also poked fun at Iran's highest authority Ayatollah Khamenei who had said before the vote that even those who don't approve of him should participate in the February 26 elections. A viral Telegram message lampooned the supreme leader by having him say: "I told those opposing the system to vote. But not like this!" Many of the jokes also recognized the role former President Mohammad Khatami played in encouraging people to vote for the list of pro-reform and relatively moderate candidates known as the List Of Hope. Khatami, who is under a media ban, urged people to vote for reformists in aYouTube video that became an instant hit and helped mobilize support for the reformist camp, something that some witty Twitter users were quick to acknowledge: # ! pic.twitter.com/aSsHtO9Yk8 Kevin Miston (@KevinMiston) February 28, 2016 Another joke: "You banned MY picture?" "See what I did there? "With one video!"#IranElectionJokes pic.twitter.com/BNPUPPxiFU MishaZand (@MishaZand) February 27, 2016 What Khatami did to the Conservatives in #IranElections2016pic.twitter.com/6sjiROwm5w (@mamlekate) February 28, 2016 Khatami's video also inspired a Telegram gag that referenced the controversial frontrunner for the Republican nomination in the U.S. presidential election. In the joke, Iranian Foreign Minister Mohamamd Javad Zarif calls up his U.S. counterpart John Kerry and says: "Hey, man, if Donald Trump is really becoming a problem for you guys let me know. I'll tell our Mohammad [Khatami] to send a message." Copyright (c) 2016 RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036. www.rferl.org The best 2-in-1 laptop 2022: our picks of the best convertible laptops These are the best 2-in-1 laptops you can buy right now A VPN helps protect your privacy by routing all your internet traffic through a remote server managed by the VPN company. PureVPN has an enormous and widely distributed collection of servers, making it a solid choice for frequent travelers and anyone that needs to spoof their location. We're also impressed with its redesigned app, which is smarter and snazzier than ever, and its affordable array of add-ons, such as port-forwarding and dedicated IP addresses. 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We strongly advise readers to create unique passwords for every account with a password manager, enable multifactor authentication wherever it is available, and use dedicated antivirus software. What Add-Ons Does PureVPN Offer? If you're itching to get more out of your PureVPN subscription, the company offers add-ons for additional monthly fees. It's a hefty collection of options, almost rivaling TorGuard VPN in its breadth. To its credit, PureVPN provides helpful explanations of each option. Dedicated IPs are unique IP addresses assigned only to you that may be less likely to be blocked than the IP addresses used by PureVPN's core service. PureVPN offers dedicated IPs from Australia, Canada, Germany, Malta, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Singapore for $2.99 per month. This is significantly less expensive than other VPNs, which typically charge around $5 per month for dedicated IP addresses. Port Forwarding is a rarely seen and advanced feature that lets you route traffic to a specific network port. PureVPN will enable port forwarding for 99 cents per month. The company also bundles dedicated IPs and port forwarding for $3.49 per month. For $3.99 per month, PureVPN will enable DDoS protection. This prevents attackers from flooding you with bogus traffic. This may be useful for competitive gamers whose opponents may try to knock them offline with a DDoS attack. Other companies are starting to expand their portfolios beyond VPNs. NordVPN offers a password manager and encrypted storage for additional fees, and Hotspot Shield VPN offers free access to several security and privacy services. PureVPN remains purely a VPN. There is also a business version of PureVPN, priced on a per-seat basis. It's $8.45 per person per month, but pricing may vary depending on the size of the organization and its specific needs. VPN Protocols VPN technology has been around for a long time, and there's more than one way to create an encrypted tunnel. We prefer the open-source options: the stalwart OpenVPN and the newcomer WireGuard. Both are available to be picked over for any potential vulnerabilities. PureVPN supports several VPN protocols, but support varies significantly by platform. Its Windows app supports OpenVPN and another good protocol, IKEv2, while its macOS app supports IKEv2 and IPSEC. The iOS app supports OpenVPN, IKEv2, and IPSEC, but the Android version only supports OpenVPN and IKEv2. On Linux, PureVPN only supports OpenVPN. Servers and Server Locations The more server locations a VPN offers, the more likely you are to find a fast and reliable connection when you travel abroad. Numerous server locations also means more choices for spoofing your location. PureVPN currently offers users servers across 139 countries. Its reach is truly impressive and is perhaps its best-selling point. It covers North America and Europe as well as any other VPN but goes much further with six locations in Africa and seven locations in Central and South America. These regions are often completely ignored by the competition. PureVPN even manages to outstrip ExpressVPN, which we often point to as the globe-trotter's best choice for VPN. The list of server locations also includes some with notably repressive internet policies, such as Turkey and Vietnam. Notably, PureVPN does not offer servers in mainland China, Hong Kong, or Russia. PureVPN achieves this global coverage partly through its use of virtual locations. These are servers configured to appear somewhere other than where they are physically located. Of the 139 entries on its server list, PureVPN says that 21 are virtual locations. This practice is not necessarily problematic, and it sometimes allows VPN companies to provide coverage to an unsafe area by housing their servers in a safer location. Still, PureVPN should be more transparent about where these servers are located. Virtual servers are software-defined, meaning that a single hardware machine can host multiple virtual servers. PureVPN tells us it only uses physical servers. Most of this infrastructure is leased and not owned outright by PureVPN, which is not unusual. In total, PureVPN boasts some 6,500 servers which rivals CyberGhost's 7,300 servers. Some VPNs such as ExpressVPN and NordVPN have moved to diskless or RAM-only servers. These machines do not write data to disk, making them resistant to physical tampering. PureVPN has not taken this step but tells us it has taken steps to secure its infrastructure from attack. Your Privacy With PureVPN With its privacy policy(Opens in a new window), PureVPN is clearly trying to be transparent but doesn't always succeed. While the company always answered our questions promptly, we think customers will find the privacy policy confusing at best and worrying at worst. Especially confusing is how the company explains what information it gathers about users' connections. The policy says that it does not store IP addresses, assigned VPN IP addresses, session timestamps, DNS requests, or (most importantly) browsing activities. That's great. Later, however, the policy says PureVPN does know the day of each connection, how long the connection lasted, how much data was consumed, and the VPN location usedit just doesn't use timestamps or IP addresses to do it. PureVPN explained to us that while it has some of this information for the duration of the connection, not all of it is saved, and none of it can be connected to a specific customer. The company referred us to an audit from KPMG(Opens in a new window) that says PureVPN does not log identifiable information on users. PureVPN tells us that the terms of the audit prevent them from sharing the results publicly. Still, that's quite a bit of information for PureVPN to gather and to hold. PureVPN should strive to gather and retain even less information. The company should also clarify its policy. The policy goes on to say that the company does not share or rent any personal information customers supply. A company representative for PureVPN told us that the company only gathers revenue from subscription sales. The company is also unequivocal that it has no insight into customer browsing activity. This is all excellent. PureVPN is incorporated under the British Virgin Islands and operates under that country's legal jurisdiction. The company says it has team members working in Hong Kong, Karachi, and Toronto. Some VPNs have started commissioning third-party audits to establish their privacy bona fides. Editors' Choice winner TunnelBear VPN, for instance, has committed to releasing the results of annual audits. Admittedly, audits are imperfect tools, but we consider them a valuable demonstration of a company's commitment to protecting its customers. PureVPN says that it has been audited by Altius IT, and provided us with information on the results, but does not include a link to the audit for customers. We'd like to see the full text made available. A transparency report typically includes the number of information requests a company has received from government agencies and law enforcement. PureVPN recently overhauled its transparency report(Opens in a new window) to show those requests, which we appreciate. However, it still does not clearly indicate how PureVPN responded to these requests. Previously, the company told us us it did not comply with any of them, but this information should be included in the report. Hands On With PureVPN on Windows We had no trouble installing PureVPN on our Intel NUC Kit NUC8i7BEH (Bean Canyon) desktop running the latest version of Windows 10. One note: PureVPN auto-checks a box in the installer that will also install the Chrome PureVPN Proxy extension. Browser proxy extensions can be useful, but we don't like anything that installs additional applications. PureVPN should remove this or make it an opt-in option. PureVPN has revamped their client app since the last time we reviewed it, and we're very happy with the results. Once you log in, you're greeted with a large Connect button that will immediately get you online with what PureVPN thinks is the best server for you. We really like this straightforwardness, as will new VPN users. We also dig the subtle purple highlights of the app's design. That said, it's still not as friendly or streamlined as TunnelBear VPN. Smart design continues into the server selector. On the right you see a list of available countries, and you can open these to see available cities. Unfortunately, PureVPN won't let you pick specific servers. On the left of the screen, PureVPN shows any dedicated IPs you have available, favorite servers, recently used servers, and the servers the app recommends. We really like how clearly the app organizes all the relevant server information onto a single screen. Other companies should look to this design for inspiration. From the Settings, you can manually select the VPN protocol you'd like the app to use. By default, it will select what it thinks works best. The app also includes a Kill Switch that will block all internet traffic should the VPN be accidentally disconnected. We weren't able to test this feature. You can also configure PureVPN to automatically launch at startup, and automatically connect to a specified server on launch. There's also a Split Tunneling setting, which is a little confusing. To turn on split tunneling you have to toggle the feature off and then select the apps you want to use the VPNall other traffic will travel in the clear. This is backward from what we'd expect. Also confusing is that the picker to select an app is just a File Explorer window, so you have to already have a firm grasp of where Windows stores its executable files. PureVPN should rework this feature. Because you can use a VPN to hide or spoof your location, many streaming services attempt to block VPN traffic. In our testing, we found that PureVPN could stream content from Netflix, but only a subset of movies and shows. That's disappointing. To protect your privacy, your VPN should not leak DNS requests. We tested a PureVPN server using the DNS leak test tool(Opens in a new window). We confirmed that PureVPN successfully changed our public IP address and did not leak our DNS information. This test only validates the server we used in testing. Other servers may not be correctly configured. Hands On With PureVPN on Android We installed the PureVPN Android VPN app on a Samsung A71 5G running Android 11. After we opened the app, it requested permission to make a VPN connection and asked to turn off Androids battery optimization feature. The battery optimization controls will turn off VPNs running in the background unless the feature is disabled. We opted not to disable it during testing. The PureVPN Android app offers a quick tutorial for first-time users. The app also has a pretty lavender background with white and green accents. After clicking the large white button in the center of the screen, we connected to a server in Atlanta, Georgia. Animation of entertainment app icons such as YouTube and Twitch dance around the connection button while the VPN connects. Unfortunately, a warning window pops up when you turn the VPN off, stating your internet security is at risk, which is unnecessarily dire-sounding. The PureVPN for Android app has two bonus features, always-on VPN and Split Tunneling. The missing features weve seen in other Android apps are multihop connection and a Kill Switch. While connected to a server in Paris, France, we visited DNSLeakTest.com and performed an extended test. We found that our actual IP address remained hidden and that our DNS information was not leaked. We then visited YouTube.com and loaded a few videos while still connected to the Paris-based server. Each video played immediately without stuttering or buffering. Next, we switched to a PureVPN server in Frankfurt, Germany, for the final performance test and navigated to Twitch to watch a streamer play a game. After sitting through a few commercials, the stream began, and the video immediately started buffering and struggling to play. Thats frustrating, but not necessarily surprising, given how far we are from Germany. Hands On With PureVPN on iOS We installed the service's iPhone VPN app on an iPhone XS running iOS 14.7. After agreeing to the terms of both documents and granting permission for the app to establish a VPN connection, we logged in to our account. PureVPNs iOS app is slick and pretty, with a lavender background and bright green accents. Like the Android version, you see a cute animation of various icons representing hobbies or entertainment sources when connecting to a VPN server. In addition, the app has a light mode (default) and a dark mode that features a rich, deep purple background with lavender controls and bright green accents. We clicked the large white connection button in the center of the app window to connect to a server in Atlanta, Georgia. You can access the list of servers (ordered by country and then city) by tapping the globe icon located in the top right corner of the screen. The PureVPN iOS app has very few features beyond basic VPN protection. In the Settings menu, you can choose to toggle on Reconnect on Disconnect. Unfortunately, no split-tunneling or Kill Switch comes with the app. Anyone hoping for a private browsing experience needs a VPN that can hide their IP address and not leak their DNS information. We tested this capability on PureVPN by visiting DNSLeakTest.com and performing an extended DNS leak test while connected to a VPN server in Toronto. This particular server passed easily. While connected to the server in Toronto, we navigated to Twitch. We clicked on a stream, and the video buffered for several seconds, appeared, and then immediately started buffering again, making the stream unwatchable, which is disappointing. Still connected to the Canadian server, we visited YouTube.com and clicked on a video. The video took over 10 seconds to load. Again, this is less than optimal; that said, we did not experience any stuttering or buffering once the video finally appeared. Hands On With PureVPN on macOS We downloaded the PureVPN MacOS VPN app from the vendors website and installed it on a MacBook Air (2020) running Big Sur 11.2.2. The app looks like a wide version of the iOS app, complete with a lavender background and white and green accents. After clicking the large white button in the center of the window, we connected to a server in Atlanta, Georgia. A menu is located on the left side of the window and contains the server switcher and the VPN settings options. You can choose from a list of countries and then cities by clicking on the server switcher. Like the iOS and Android apps, the MacOS app is light on features, boasting only a Kill Switch, a function that keeps the computer from going into auto-sleep, and a feature that allows the VPN to auto-connect after the computer wakes up. VPN competitor Private Internet Access for macOS also has a Kill Switch but includes split tunneling and a feature that blocks domains used for ads, trackers, and malware. To test a Bangkok-based PureVPN servers privacy, we went to DNSLeakTest.com and ran an extended test. Fortunately, our actual IP address and DNS information remained secure during testing. While still connected to the server in Thailand, we visited YouTube.com and attempted to watch a video. Unfortunately, the video took several seconds to load, and when the images appeared, they were heavily pixelated. That makes sense, given the distances involved. We then navigated to Twitch to watch a streamer playing New World. The stream took several seconds to load, but once the video appeared, it was clear and didnt buffer or stutter. Speed and Performance Regardless of what VPN you use, your internet speed will likely take a hit. This typically means a decrease in upload and download speeds and an increase in latency. To get a sense of those changes, we run a series of tests using the Ookla speedtest tool(Opens in a new window) while the VPN is connected and when it is not. We then find a percent change between the two sets of results. For more on how we test VPNs, see our article on the subject. (Editors' note: Ookla is owned by PCMag's publisher, Ziff Davis) In our tests, we found that PureVPN reduced download and upload speed test results by 83.9% and 82.1%, respectively. These results were both significantly worse than the median results we saw across the products we've tested thus far. PureVPN had better latency results, increasing latency by 49.6%. You can see how PureVPN compares to the other VPNs we've tested in the chart below. Because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, we have limited access to the PCMag Labs and have switched to a rolling testing model. We'll update the results below as we test more products throughout the year. Bear in mind that VPN speeds are highly variable, so your results will likely differ from ours. We therefore, we discourage using speed as the primary factor when choosing a VPN. Instead, we focus on cost, features, and privacy protections. Times Have Changed A privacy policy must be more than just a document created to meet legal requirements. It is also a promise that the company makes to its customers. In its quest for transparency, PureVPN has lost clarity. PureVPN's policy contains much of the information we want to see but presents it in a way that seems self-contradictory. The company needs to make its practices clearer to customers and should strive to collect less information from its customers as well. We'd also like to see PureVPN revamp its transparency report to reflect its responses with to enforcement and governments and release the results of all its third-party audits. All the pieces for PureVPN to become a truly transparent company are here, they just need to be put together properly. We're also concerned about its pricing model, which has some subscription prices increasing drastically after the first billing cycle. PureVPN should make this clearer to customers or dispense with it all together. Lastly, PureVPN would benefit from including additional privacy tools such as multihop connections. That said, much of PureVPN's recent evolution is for the better. We are impressed with its snazzy redesign, and happy to see the size of its VPN server network. The company also deserves praise for the variety and low price of its add-ons. For now, we continue to recommend our Editors' Choice winners, especially ProtonVPN and Mullvad VPN. Both offer robust and transparent privacy policies and cost significantly less than PureVPN. PureVPN 3.0 (Opens in a new window) Check Price (Opens in a new window) Pros Geographically diverse servers Smart, snazzy client design Numerous, affordable add-ons Cons Confusing privacy policy Unusual pricing Incomplete release of transparency and audit information Few additional privacy tools Unclear where virtual servers are located View More The Bottom Line PureVPN boasts an outstanding network of international VPN servers and a vastly improved client app, but its privacy policy leaves us scratching our heads. Real estate projects in the very near future won't start with blueprints or even CAD. Soon you'll be walking around your house, or major industrial commercial entity, using augmented reality. This is the business of Building Conversation(Opens in a new window), which lets you "walk" around your new home or office building before a shovel even breaks ground. PCMag met up with Terrence Masson, co-founder and CEO of the Boston-based firm recently to find out how a background in previsualization, visual effects on three Star Wars movies, and CG character animation on projects like South Park gave him the idea for his new venture. "There are 24,000 registered architecture firms in the U.S., Canada, and U.K., so that's our initial potential client base right now, and we know that soon it'll be essential for them to have an AR solution on all projects, from multi-million dollar single family home upwards," explained Masson. You don't have to be an architect to use Building Conversation's software; its app is available for free download on iOS(Opens in a new window). Masson powered up his iPad to demo the current iteration of the app, and explain what's coming next in the new release, which will arrive in the third quarter. Holding up the screen, he focused on the sky above a parking lot between two tall buildings on Hollywood Boulevard. Suddenly there appeared a virtual construction floating in space. The app works off key points, including latitude and longitude, to anchor potential new builds in place, showing the exact spatial ratio alongside existing construction. There's also a transitional lighting mode to go from winter to summer, showing how the sunlight changes at different times of year. This means clients and architects can do a real "walk through" and see the space lit at different times of day and make adjustments on layout in real time. The data is all stored in the cloud so remote teams can work on projects at the same time, with access to the most up-to-date materials. The ;UI is elegant and spare. Icons were designed with architects in mind; a refractor and compass let you make adjustments to the renderings. A nice touch is the holographic plan-view representation option. Masson put his business card on the table as a 2D marker and then "anchored" a building on the screen. It appeared to rise up out of the flat surface and we could walk around it. Scaling up, your could imagine a large touch-screen gestural interface a la Minority Report with real and virtual team members making changes and digital notifications on a futuristic cityscape. So how did Masson go from working on Star Wars movies and South Park animation to creating virtual tools for architects? "I've changed industries a number of times. When things get too easy or problems are solved, I don't want to be doing the same thing over and over again, so I try something new. I am still a member of the Producers Guild of America, as well as the Visual Effects Society, but I took a sideways step into academia for a while. As Executive Professor of Animation and Founding Director of Creative Industries at Northeastern University in Boston, I led the vision and creation of all undergraduate Game Design and Interactive Media curriculum in the College of Arts, Media and Design. I resigned fairly recently to focus on Building Conversation full-time. But it was at Northwestern that I met my co-founder, George Thrush, who is the Founding Director of the School of Architecture there. It was his original question about wanting a better way to communicate designs that prompted the whole idea." What clearly links Masson's work is an ability to visualize what doesn't yet exist, and then build the tools to create it. "I have been building new worlds for many years, including creating a VFX department for the legendary Douglas Trumbull(Opens in a new window) (who was responsible for Blade Runner and 2001: A Space Odyssey). If it's never been done before, I'm the one they call." So how did the idea of building tools for architects come in? "Well, on feature films the best hard surface modelers (non creatures) I hired were always architects. That gave me a contacts base and also started me thinking about how they work, and what they need in their non-movie day job building practice." Coming up, Masson will "be porting the app to the Unity platform to allow cross-platform and multi-device support. As well as adding a lot of premium features, like custom exporters, allowing architects to export from their current authoring and modeling programs such as Revit and SketchUp." Something that surprised Masson was how many of his clients were still using yellow legal pads (with a sharpened 2B pencil) to take notes during meetings. So the next iteration has sophisticated note capture and the ability to translate that into commentary alongside the augmented reality models. For now, the app is focused on tablets "because everyone already has tablets and it works great for small group conversations. But we'd like to move to wearables as soon as the future glasses market stabilizes to give the architects more options as they walk around a building site." So if you fancy day-dreaming about your future multi-million dollar fantasy residence, start doing some previsualization of your own inside the Building Conversation app(Opens in a new window) today. There are moments when I want to quit social media, throw my mobile phones to a pack of wolves, and never even think about email again. The convenience of "anytime, anywhere" technology can have a dark side when we let it pervade our personal lives. If you find yourself having these sorts of thoughts, it might be time to take a digital break. Next week, on March 4 and 5, people are pledging to strengthen their self-discipline and let go of technology during the National Day of Unplugging(Opens in a new window), an event that lets people try a digital sabbath or digital detox. Before jumping to conclusions about what it means to "unplug," take a look at the pledge itself: "I pledge to unplug during the National Day of Unplugging on March 4-5, 2016. I understand that the important first step is to unplug for as long as I can, even if it is not the full day." The National Day of Unplugging is run by Reboot, and organization that promotes a digital sabbath. When I first heard the phrase "digital sabbath," I was a bit dubious about it, due to a number of assumptions about what those words meant. In talking with Tanya Schevitz, a spokesperson for Reboot and the National Day of Unplugging, I found the digital sabbath as she explained it to be much more practical and nuanced than I had assumed it would be. What is the Digital Sabbath? A digital sabbath is a regularly scheduled, recurring time to set aside technology and be present with yourself and others. While the digital sabbath was indeed inspired by the Jewish sabbath (the National Day of Unplugging stems from an earlier project called The Sabbath Manifesto(Opens in a new window)), the digital sabbath is not at all religious or even necessarily strict. The principles of the digital sabbath as explained in the manifesto are as much about nurturing yourself and enjoying life as they are about avoiding technology. What Are the Rules of a Digital Sabbath? The most important thing I learned about the digital sabbath from Schevitz is that there are no hard and fast rules. A digital sabbath is not necessarily a complete detachment from technology, but rather, a break from technology in a way that makes the most sense for you. "Our mission is to encourage people to take a digital sabbath or digital break, and to individualize it," Schevitz said when we spoke by phone. She said if there were strict rules, no one would do it. It has to make sense for you and benefit you if you're going to do it. "This is your break," Schevitz said. For example, some people set aside a few hours every night, say from the time their kids get home from school until they go to bed, where they don't use their smartphones. Other people observe a digital sabbath the same hours of a Jewish sabbath, from sundown Friday to sundown Saturday. Some people might choose their digital break to be one where they don't use any screens, unless it's in the company of others, as in watching a movie with friends. You might give up Internet-connected devices all weekend, unless you need Google Maps. Whatever works. Digital Detox or Digital Sabbath? A digital sabbath is a bit different from a digital detox, although the more I learned about the two terms, the more alike they sounded. As with "digital sabbath," when I first heard the term "digital detox," I found it off-putting because of the assumptions I made about its meaning and misuse of the word detox in the alternative health industry. "A digital detox happens over a longer time period," Schevitz said. "The difference really is a regular break versus a week-long or two week-long break, or during vacation, or some set period." Orianna Fielding, founder of the Digital Detox Company(Opens in a new window), interprets it differently. The way she describes a digital detox, it sounds more like establishing everyday rules and habits about how to use technology sensibly, and not at all like sitting on a remote island with no electricity for a week. "I am a great advocator of digitally detoxing periodically throughout the day, as often as you can, whether at work or at home," Fielding told me by email. "Short bursts of unplugging can also have a positive impact in helping us to take a pause and restore digital-analogue balance to our lives." Fielding, who also wrote Unplugged: How to Live Mindfully in a Digital World, recommends establishing digital-free zones, like the bathroom and the bedroom. She added that if you use your phone as an alarm clock in the bedroom, then maybe you need to buy an alarm clock. She's also a stickler for not having phones around during meals. Who Needs a Digital Sabbath or Detox? I ask Schevitz to tell me the signs that a person might need a digital detox or Sabbath. She said either one might be good for anyone who feels stressed out or who feels that they have a problem maintaining boundaries with their technology. Ironically, it's usually the technology that's causing the stress in the first place. "The expectation right now is that you are always reachable, that you will respond to every ring, ding, buzz, and beep of your phone, and that is not just work, but the deluge of technology coming at you: information, emails, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram," Schevitz said. "We're all in information overload all the time. That comes not just from work but also from friends, family, news sourcesevery outlet. "When you're able to take a digital detox, it's not just work, but all of that. Taking a break from the expectation that you will respond or that you will post constantly what's going on in your lifejust taking a break from technology and being in the moment is freeing. It's not just about work. It really is everything. Being unplugged and being able to experience life, and being able to relax without that deluge of technology," she said. What Can You Expect? What benefits can you expect from a digital sabbath or detox? Both Fielding and Schevitz agree that the major benefit is rejuvenation. If I can get nerdy for a moment: There's a theoretical model called Hobfoll's Conservation of Resources often cited in productivity research. It essentially says that people have internal resources that we use to get work done, cope with hardships, and in general handle life's stressors. Throughout the day, as we work and deal with life, those resources get depleted. We need breaks (lunch breaks, the weekend, holidays) to allow our internal resources to replenish. If we never take a break from technology, it's possible we aren't giving our internal resources an opportunity to build up again, which would explain why people who don't take a break feel stressed out. It would also explain why people feel refreshed and revived after a digital detox or sabbath. Fielding put it this way: "Unplugging from your digital devices for a period of time, however short, gives you a chance to look up, reconnect with yourself and those around you in a real way, and restore balance by giving you the opportunity to slow down, uni-task, and most importantly, remember that there is a 'you' with a life, beyond a two-inch screen." Newcomers might feel uneasy when they first try a digital sabbath or detox, Schevitz said. "We're used to being plugged in 24/7. People feel anxious about unplugging, but they also feel like they need something, that they need to make a change because they're addicted to the technology and overwhelmed by constant connectivity." How to Get Started 1. Set Ground Rules Before you take a break from technology, set some ground rules. "It's just too easy to pick up the phone or turn on the computer and scroll through Facebook or start texting or calling," Schevitz said. Know before you start where you'll draw the line. 2. Tell People When You're Unreachable Make sure you tell people when you're going to be unreachable. Just because you're not online doesn't mean you can't communicate when you'll be offline and when you'll be back. 3. Tell VIPs How to Reach You You can (and should) still be reachable to very important people. Make sure key people know the best way to get in touch if there's an emergency. They might call your phone rather than texting or emailing you, or maybe you'll ask them to call the phone of someone who's usually with you. 4. Develop a Habit for Where You Put Your Phone Pick a dedicated place to keep your phone while you're on a technology break as a reminder not to needlessly look at it. Putting away your phone also signals to family and friends that you are paying attention to them, not a screen. Fielding likes to switch her phone to airplane mode and leave it inside her handbag. Reboot sells cell phone sleeping bags(Opens in a new window) that serve as a reminder to leave the phone alone. 5. Take the Pledge March 4-5 is the National Day of Unplugging. You can take the pledge and give your first technology respite a shot. There are live events for the National Day of Unplugging(Opens in a new window) in Los Angeles and San Francisco that anyone can attend to learn more and experience a digital break with others. Know before you go that you'll be asked to check your smartphone at the door. BARCELONAThe Fairphone 2 isn't new to Mobile World Congress; it's already available for sale in Europe and is being shipped out to consumers who pre-ordered. What makes it special is that it is completely modular, similar to Project Ara(Opens in a new window), which is expected to have a 2016 test launch in Puerto Rico. Fairphone 2 functions on the same principles as Project Ara, where every component from the screen to the battery to the processor is completely user-replaceable, but the two projects have their differences. "The idea [behind] the design of these modules is to make it easy to maintain and keep it alive for as long possible," Fairphone's Chief Technology Officer, Olivier Herbert, told me here at MWC. "We use this modular design to extend the lifecycle of the phone, that's different from using the modular design for customization," he said. "That has never been a goal of the company." Instead, the focus is on environmental and social concerns; the devices are "easy to repair and easy to maintain," and cut down on waste. The Fairphone 2 is basically a Nexus 5 in terms of hardware. There's a 5-inch 1,920-by-1,080 display, a Snapdragon 801 processor clocked at 2.26GHz, 2GB of RAM, 32GB of internal storage, 8-megapixel rear-facing camera and 2-megapixel selfie camera with a removable 2,420mAh battery, dual-band Wi-Fi, and 4G LTE capabilities. In the future, Fairphone does envision giving users the option of upgrading modules, which would allow the Fairphone 2 to have components that can boost RAM, refresh the camera, and add functionality like NFC, but at the moment, there are only replacement parts, sold through its website(Opens in a new window). "So far our market size is limited to the number of devices we have," Herbert said. "We cannot afford to build a whole family of modules." In the meantime, the company will make the documentation available for third-party component support, which may provide users with different upgrade options, though this isn't the primary goal of the company. The Fairphone 2 torn down (see image), shows how fundamentally simple the device is. It's no surprise that it has a 10 out of 10 rating on iFixit, compared with the Apple iPhone 6s's ($649.99 at AT&T Wireless)(Opens in a new window) seven and the paltry two for the Google Nexus 6P ($149.95 at B&H Photo Video)(Opens in a new window) . The LG G5 is partially modular in some ways; you can click open the bottom and slide out the battery, but it's nowhere near as modular as the Fairphone 2, which can be disassembled with only a single toola Phillips 0 screwdriver. Taking apart the Fairphone 2 is easy. You start by peeling off the back, which gives you access to the battery, dual-SIM card slots, and microSD card slots. After you remove the battery, there are a set of blue locking clips at the bottom. Once unlocked, you can slide out the internal frame, giving you access to all the internal components, including the processor, speaker, and camera module. The Fairphone 2 uses two types of screwsthe Phillips ones come with blue circles and are user serviceable, while the screws are not. The display pops out easily, and the rest of the components can be unscrewed. Putting the phone back together is simply these steps in reverse. Herbert was able to do it in three minutes. Currently, the Fairphone 2 is officially sold with Android 5.1 Lollipop, but it is very developer-friendly. I saw Fairphone 2s running Android, Sailfish, Ubuntu, Android without Google services, and Firefox OS, all courtesy of the developer community. There is strong support for the developer community and Herbert said they, "do provide the development environment, the stack, the source code, the binaries to recreate the AOSP+, without any Google services." The Fairphone 2 is currently only sold in Europe. As for a U.S. launch, you'll probably have to wait for the Fairphone 3. "We looked into it, [but] the cost of doing a North American version is too high," Herbert said. "We're not going to do it with this one, but the next one." Snapchat issued a mea culpa to its employees over the weekend after revealing that one of its staffers fell for a phishing scam and "revealed some payroll information" to online miscreants. "The good news is that our servers were not breached, and our users' data was totally unaffected by this," Snapchat wrote in a blog post(Opens in a new window). "The bad news is that a number of our employees have now had their identity compromised. And for that, we're just impossibly sorry." The company's payroll department was targeted by the "isolated email phishing scam" last Friday. The scammer impersonated Snapchat CEO Evan Spiegel, and asked for employee payroll information. "Unfortunately, the phishing email wasn't recognized for what it was a scam and payroll information about some current and former employees was disclosed externally," the company wrote. Within four hours of the incident, the company confirmed it was a phishing attack and reported it to the FBI. Snapchat has since contacted all affected employees and offered them two years of free identity theft insurance and monitoring. "When something like this happens, all you can do is own up to your mistake, take care of the people affected, and learn from what went wrong," the company wrote. "To make good on that last point, we will redouble our already rigorous training programs around privacy and security in the coming weeks." Meanwhile, this has been a busy month for Snapchat. The self-destructing messaging app recently rolled out a "birthday party" update for iOS and Android offering "some fun surprises, like an exclusive lens on your birthday, a cake emoji next to your name, and more." Snapchat also introduced on-demand geofilters, letting you "create and publish a geofilter for your party, wedding, business, or any other place or event" starting at $5 each. Sadly, well have to end this months roundup on a low note. Late last year, motherboard vendors began shipping custom BIOS builds that let you overclock lower-cost, non-K-series Skylake chips, which ostensibly cant be overclocked at all. You knew it wouldnt take Intel long to respond, and now, the partys over. Intel regularly issues updates for our processors which our partners voluntarily incorporate into their BIOS, an Intel spokesman told PCWorld after a recent update. The latest update provided to partners includes, among other things, code that aligns with the position that we do not recommend overclocking processors that have not been designed to do so. Bummer. On the plus side, if you managed to snag one of those overclocking BIOSes before the iron struck, you should still be able to overclock your non-overclockable Skylake chip to 11as long as you dont update your motherboard. Facebook-owned WhatsApp recently turned seven years old. What better way to celebrate the milestone than cutting ties with the past? This past weekend, the popular messaging app said it will cease support for seven aging and little-used operating systems by the end of 2016. No, smart alecks, Windows 10 Mobile isnt on the listbut Blackberry 10 is. In fact, all versions of BlackBerry are set to go WhatsApp-less, along with Nokia S40, Nokia Symbian S60, Android 2.1 and 2.2 (Eclair and Froyo), and Windows Phone 7.1. WhatsApp says these operating systems are getting the boot because they dont have the ability to support upcoming features the service has planned. The company also said it wants to turn its attention to the mobile platforms the vast majority of people use instead of supporting legacy operating systems with dwindling user bases. Why this matters: With one billion monthly active users worldwide, WhatsApp is a must-have app for a big slice of the world. Whenever an app with that kind of user base starts dumping platformseven older onesa good portion of users will be upset. Its not surprising to see BlackBerry disappear, though. The platform has been struggling for years, falling far behind even Windows phones, according to the latest global smartphone market share report from research firm IDC. (Note: PCWorld and IDC are both owned by International Data Group.) If youre using a phone running one of these doomed operating systems you have until the end of 2016 to get a WhatsApp-compatible phone, though WhatsApp didnt specify an exact end date for any of the platforms. Update: An update to the blog post reads WhatsApp is extending support for BlackBerry OS, BlackBerry 10, Nokia S40 and Nokia Symbian S60 until June 30, 2017. A federal magistrate judge in Brooklyn on Monday, Feb. 29 ruled that the government had overreached when it used the 18th-century All Writs Act to seek Apples help to bypass security in an iPhone seized in a drug case. A senior Apple executive said the ruling is not binding, but could have influence, on the Riverside federal court case in which Apple is fighting an order to help the FBI look at the content of an encrypted phone used by one of the terrorists in the Dec. 2 San Bernardino shootings. Magistrate Judge Charles Orenstein rejected the FBIs bid for an order forcing Apple to assist in the Brooklyn drug case. The FBI and Apple will face each other in Riverside federal court on March 22 as Apple fights a court order obtained by the FBI commanding the electronics firm to create software that will let the government get around built-in security features on an iPhone 5c used by Syred Rizwan Farook . He and his wife launched the attack at the Inland Regional Center that killed 14 and wounded 22. Both died in a shootout with police a few hours later. The Department of Justice said Monday it will appeal the Brooklyn ruling. It said Apple had agreed to cooperate with the government until that case was made public by the court. Orenstein said the All Writs Act of 1789 which the government has used in both the New York and the San Bernardino cases, was devised as a gap filler. Congress cannot address every circumstance in which a federal court might properly act. But in his ruling, Orenstein said Congress had addressed by declining to act in 2015 an expansion of the existing Communications Assistance for Law Enforcement Acts (CALEA) provision that would have mandated that companies install back doors into their products to ensure that authorities can access encrypted data when authorized to do so. The government contends that CALEA simply has nothing to say on the matter, while Apple argues that the omission reflects a legislative choice.Apples argument has more merit, Orenstein said in his 50-page ruling. I conclude that Apples position is more consistent than the governments, Orenstein wrote, based on the rules of considering the meaning of all words in law, as well as the rules prohibiting interpretations that produce absurd results or are of suspect constitutionality. A senior Apple executive said Monday that Orensteins ruling is on point its going to have some persuasive effect for the magistrate in California because of the research Orenstein put into his work. But (U.S. Magistrate Judge Sheri Pym) is not bound to follow this by any means, said the official, who spoke on condition of not being identified. We are disappointed in the Magistrates ruling and plan to ask the District Judge to review the matter in the coming days, the U.S. Justice Department said in a statement from Washington D.C. on Monday. As our prior court filings make clear, Apple expressly agreed to assist the government in accessing the data on this iPhone as it had many times before in similar circumstances and only changed course when the governments application for assistance was made public by the court. The government said it believes there may be evidence on the phone that can be used in a still-active criminal investigation. The phone in the Brooklyn case was recovered in a drug investigation in which the defendant, Jun Feng, had already pleaded guilty. But the government wanted to look at the data in his phone to see if there was additional evidence. The defendant claimed he could not remember the pass code. The cases are different: The iPhone government agents want to look at in the Brooklyn methamphetamine case is on iOS7 while the phone used by San Bernardino shooter Syed Rizwan Farook is on iOS9. The earlier operating system doesnt encrypt data automatically, like the one used by Farook. And the government pointed out that Apple had cooperated in unlocking the data on similar iPhones as Fengs 70 times before. Orenstein was considering the FBIs bid for an order; Pym has already granted the FBI and order, but gave Apple a chance to challenge it. Orensteins ruling did not focus on the technical differences betwee the devices, but All Writs Act the government used in both the Brooklyn and San Bernardino caes to pry the data loose with Apples ordered cooperation. He found the case wanting. In short, whatever else the AWAs usages and principles clause may be intended to accomplish, it cannot be a means for the executive branch to achieve a legislative goal that Congress has considered and rejected, he said. The ruling in Brooklyn may add to the conversation today Tuesday March 1 when Apple and the FBI go before the House Judciary Committtee as Congress looks at privacy and security issues framed by a court order for the tech company to help hack an iPhone used by San Bernardino shooting terrorists. FBI director James Comey and Apple general counsel Bruce Sewell will appear before the House Judiciary Committee in separate panels. The FBI wants Apple to create software to dodge the phones data protection shutdown protection, and has said the search is strictly limited to that device. In its fight against the order, Apple says forcing it to create a such a program will endanger the security of hundreds of millions of its devices. The FBI is asking Apple to weaken the security of our products, Sewell said in prepared remarks for the committee that were released on Monday. Hackers and cyber criminals could use this to wreak havoc on our privacy and personal safety. Comey said in an open letter released Feb. 21 that the relief the FBI seeking is limited. We simply want the chance, with a search warrant, to try to guess the terrorists passcode without the phone essentially self-destructing and without it taking a decade to guess correctly. Thats it. We dont want to break anyones encryption or set a master key loose on the land, Comey said. Titled The Encryption Tightrope: Balancing Americans Security and Privacy, the hearing starts at 10 a.m. PST. Comey and Sewell will appear in separate panels. Americans have a right to strong privacy protections and Congress should fully examine the issue to be sure those are in place while finding ways to help law enforcement fight crime and keep us safe, Judiciary Committee Chairman Bob Goodlatte (R-Va.) and ranking Democrat John Conyers Jr. (D-Mich.) said in a joint statement issued last week when the hearing was announced. Apple also said Monday that it expects more than 25 technology, media and civil rights organizations to submit briefs in its favor. Among those expected to file or have their names attached to friend-of-the-court briefs on behalf of the tech giant are Microsoft, Facebook and Google. At least two friend-of-the-court briefs also are planned in support of the FBI, to be filed on behalf of victims and their families. One will be filed by private attorney and former federal court judge Stephen Larson. San Bernardino County District Attorney Mike Ramos said several California district attorneys plan to file a separate action supporting law enforcement efforts to recover the phones data. RELATED: First Amendment lawyer says Apples code is speech argument is sound Pentagon starts aggressive cyberwar against Islamic State Police Department to receive award for locating suspects Apple says county, FBI at fault in iPhone case Encryption is hardest question Ive seen, says FBIs Comey Court action for victims and families will be filed next week Gates disappointed by reports he backs FBI Q&A on the Apple vs. Justice Department court fight Complete coverage of the San Bernardino shooting, aftermath Contact the writer: rdeatley@pressenterprise.com or 951-368-9573 UPDATE: Jeffries has responded. Anyone who has followed the board for the past few years knows that I have been an independent voice on the board, arguing for a more efficient and transparent government, he said via email. I personally declined to accept any pay increases and I also rejected a taxpayer funded pension. Weve made a lot of positive changes that have upset the old status quo crowd. Ms Walsh has been disgruntled ever since she lost her job with the county and now wants to unwind the clock. I look forward to future candidate debates so that we can shed some light on her factually challenged arguments. ORIGINAL POST: Debbie Walsh worked as a legislative assistant for Riverside County Supervisor Bob Buster. Now shes running against the man who defeated Buster in 2012. Walsh filed papers on Feb. 18 with the county Registrar of Voters to run for the First District seat on the Board of Supervisors. She will try to unseat Kevin Jeffries, who is running for a second four-year term in the district that includes most of the city of Riverside as well as Wildomar, Lake Elsinore, Canyon Lake and nearby unincorporated areas. In a news release, Walsh, a 62-year-old Mead Valley resident, said: There is much to be proud of in Riverside County and the First District. Let us work together to make sure that we continue to make Riverside County a great place to live, work and play for us and future generations. She said Jeffries, a former Republican assemblyman who lives in the Lake Elsinore area, hasnt followed through on his promise to improve public safety and that more deputies are needed to patrol the districts unincorporated communities. Walsh also accused Jeffries of not supporting transparent governing and for using Community Improvement Funds to promote himself. Jeffries favors large warehouse developments that will send more trucks onto local roads, she said. She criticized Jeffries for opposing a program that uses public funds to pay the Riverside Arts Council to curate a rotating exhibit of artwork at the county headquarters in downtown Riverside. Jeffries could not immediately be reached for comment. Walsh supports a moratorium on logistics warehouses in the First Districts residentially zoned areas and said she has a detailed plan to increase real jobs and the economy for the region. Heres a link to Walshs website. Walsh is the second candidate to pull papers to run against Jeffries. Kelly Divine of Lakeland Village filed paperwork in November. The supervisorial election will be held as part of the California primary on June 7. If no one candidate gets a majority of the vote, a runoff between the top two vote-getters will be held in November. San Jacinto is looking at adding more paramedics and possible new police services and ways to pay for them. Three issues related to public safety will come before the San Jacinto City Council when it meets Tuesday, March 1. The panel will consider enacting a emergency service fee, using profits from street sweeping fines toward public safety and moving forward with a study regarding possible new police services. Under the proposed medical service fee, residents would pay either an annual subscription fee of $75 or $300 per emergency each time a firefighters administers emergency services. The money would offset the costs of adding a paramedic team to the citys fire services contract with Cal Fire/Riverside County Fire Department. San Jacinto closed one of its two fire stations in March 2015 after voters twice chose not to approve a utility tax that city officials said would have been used for public safety. Since that time, the number of calls for emergency medical services in the city have increased significantly, according to a city report. Adding the paramedic squad will cost $1.35 million annually and user fees and insurance are expected to add up to $400,000, the city said. Low-income individuals who qualify for the Southern California Gas Companys CARE program would likely be exempt from the fee, City Manager Tim Hults said. City council members also will vote on using any profits from the street sweeping violations toward public safety. The city started ticketing vehicles that block street sweepers in September. The program is anticipated to collect $360,000 more than expenses this year, according to Hults. Eight Riverside County cities that contract with the Sheriffs Department are sharing the cost of feasibility study on forming their own police force. San Jacinto was selected to execute the contract. Contact the writer: 951-368-9086 or cshultz@pressenterprise.com Re: Gas prices powering up [Front page, Feb. 26]: I think Bernie Sanders has the right idea when he believes that large corporations are controlling the economy. As the article states, the cost of making summer blend gasoline adds roughly 10 cents to the product cost, yet all the gasoline producers in Southern California have all raised the wholesale price by 37 cents per gallon, which will be even higher for consumers because of the need for gas stations to make a profit and additional taxes. Its time that the majority of us that have to work for a living or live on savings and retirement income fight back. Its no wonder the cost of living in the Golden State is the highest in the nation. We need to elect state and federal officials that are not the best money can buy, but instead represent us. Bernie Waltzer Riverside No lily-white hands for Ted Cruz Re: Cruz fires top aide for circulating a doctored video misquoting Rubio [News, Feb. 23]: The Ted Cruz presidential campaign fired national spokesman Rick Tyler last week. Tyler was credited with dirty tricks within the Cruz campaign. In one instance, Tyler was on Fox News, defending the a photoshopped picture of Marco Rubio shaking hands with Obama. The Cruz campaign was beginning to earn the reputation of a dirty campaign. But several things must not be overlooked. When a super PAC puts out a hit piece on an opponent, there can be no coordination between campaign staff and the super PAC. As a result, the super PAC can stretch the truth without repercussions. However, with a campaign spokesman, the candidate has full knowledge of whats being put out officially as part of the campaign. In other words, Cruz knew exactly what Rick Tyler was saying and doing, and he had Cruzs blessing. Bottom line: Cruz is still a lying snake, and he is not as pure as the driven snow. David Baker Riverside Once again, UC Riversides Department of Dance, demands that audiences look at movement and rhythm in different ways: serious, provocative or whimsical. The departments annual production, UCR is Dancing, runs Thursday, March 3, through Saturday, March 5, and incubates original ideas and experiments in choreography by students. The eagerly awaited show, showcasing the works of 11 undergraduate dance majors, will return to the University Theatre this week under the artistic direction of Assistant Professor Taisha Paggett and Master of Fine Arts candidate Maggie Sniffen. The production draws on the universitys rigorous dance curriculum, but reflects each students unique style of moving. It integrates bodies and landscapes and explores issues about power, solo versus collective action, gender and cultural and social identity. The choreographers include: Hayley Barnes, Dilia Berganza, Courtney Boutwell, Charlene Chang, Sarah Fleischman, Jennifer Oseguera, Krista Palmer, Luke Portillo, Areli Rodriguez, Elizabeth Villalobos and Amariah Wosczyk. Most recently, Paggetts work for the stage, gallery and public space has been presented by The Studio Museum in Harlem, Clockshop in Los Angeles and the Whitney Museum of American Art in New York. Before attending UCR, Sniffen choreographed for and performed with the Modesto Junior College Dance Department. After graduating from San Diego State University with her Bachelor of Fine Arts in Dance, she toured abroad and trained with professionals from all over the world. Contact the writer: llucas@pressenterprise.com, 951-368-9559 Two Crestline residents were arrested Friday, Feb. 26, after several mannequins, painted with bulls-eyes and the names of San Bernardino County sheriffs officials, were found hanging from trees. Authorities say one of the people arrested has ties to white supremacist gang members who have been arrested recently for serious crimes. Sarah Stewart, 36, and Erin Elder, 47, were arrested on suspicion of threatening an officer and engaging in criminal activity to promote the reputation of a street gang, the Sheriffs Department said in a news release. Sheriffs officials believe three or four other people assisted Stewart and are still looking for them. They asked that anyone with information about the incident call 909-336-0687 or, to remain anonymous, call the We Tip hotline at 1-800-782-7463. The mannequins were found throughout the Crestline and Cedarpines Park areas. The first one was discovered in the early-morning hours of Feb. 18, according to a news release. While deputies from the Twin Peaks sheriffs station were collecting that mannequin, another was found near a school bus stop. Soon after, five more were reported hanging from various locations, the release said. Of the seven mannequins collected, six had names of current and past Twin Peaks deputies, and the seventh had a probation officers name on it. The bulls-eyes were painted below the names. Twin Peaks Deputy Eric Dyberg said he was with a team that took down some of the mannequins. He said in four years of service with the station, nothing like this has ever happened. It was disturbing, he said. Its threatening and its unknown what any other motive would be other than to threaten deputies. Dyberg could not say whether his name was on any of the mannequins. Sheriff John McMahon said Monday that the suspects had encounters with at least some of the law enforcement officials they named. Its pretty clear that the deputy sheriffs in Twin Peaks are putting some pressure on those that are involved in criminal activity, and this was a way for them to send a message to the deputies that they are uncomfortable with that level of attention, McMahon said. Deputies and detectives found text messages, phone calls and video that implicated Stewart, sheriffs officials said. Stewart also was seen driving the mannequins around in a U-Haul van and loading them in with Elder, the release said. Deputies arrested Stewart and Elder about 9:05 a.m. Friday at a home in the 300 block of Davos Drive in Crestline, the release said. Elder was being held at the West Valley Detention Center with bail set at $10,000, jail records show. Stewarts name was not found in San Bernardino County jail records. Sasson Reuven, a veteran of the Israeli Defense Force and the elite Red Beret paratrooper unit, will share his first-hand account of a mission to rescue hostages from Air France Flight 139 at 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 2 at the Chabad Jewish Community Center in Riverside. Air France Flight 139 was hijacked and diverted to Entebbe, Uganda on June 27, 1976. A news release from chabad says other passengers were freed, but Israelis aboard were held hostage under threat of death unless 40 Palestinian militant prisoners in Israel were released . It says Israeli intelligence and Special Forces launched a daring rescue mission and rescued 102 hostages. An Israeli soldier and three hostages were killed. It is a story of courage, defiance and endurance, Chabad Rabbi Shmuel Fuss said in the news release. Its a message we can all relate to. Admission is $25 or $9 for students. Information or reservations, 951-222-2005 or JewishRiverside.com. Contact the writer: community@pressenterprise.com All that stood between two Klansmen and angry counter-protesters swinging wooden planks were Brian Levin and his iPhone, capturing it all on video. Dont hurt him, sir! Dont hurt him, sir! pleaded Levin, a Cal State San Bernardino professor who unexpectedly found himself protecting the safety and civil rights of two members of a hate group. Get away! Get away from this gentleman! At first Levin did not feel the counter-protesters anger and violence were directed at him until he was approached by two frenzied men with planks. Just then, he said, the wailing of approaching sirens caused them to pause. I was almost preparing myself to have my face smashed, he said. Levin, director of Cal State San Bernardinos Center for the Study of Hate & Extremism, went to Anaheims Pearson Park on Saturday to conduct research; hed hoped to ask rallying Klansmen whom they support for president and what they think about Adolf Hitler, among other questions. Instead, he spent three surreal minutes caught up in a burst of violence that included two Klansmen getting stomped while on the ground, and three of the counter-protesters being stabbed, one with the decorative end of a flagpole. Police arrested five Klansmen and seven of the counter-protesters Saturday. But on Sunday, the five Klansmen were released after police determined they were acting in self-defense against a group that had come to the park with the intent to cause violence. This regrettable incident was the result of approximately 10-20 individuals who came to the park with the intent of perpetrating violence, Anaheim police said Sunday night. Saturdays violence caught everybody by surprise, Levin said, explaining that there is little Klan activity in Southern California other than the handing out of leaflets. Hate groups such as the Skinheads and Neo-Nazis tend to be more prone to criminality and violence, he said. On the hierarchy of violence, (the Klan) tend to be more obnoxious than dangerous, Levin said. Levin said its terrible that the Klans brand of hatred still has the power to wound. But, he added, We must in a civilized society allow freedom for even the ideas we find most loathsome, and reject them in that marketplace of ideas but not through violence. What he found morally disquieting was not just that he was caught in the middle of the brutality, but also that only one other person tried to dissuade the counter-protesters. I would have thought someone else would have come out to help me protect them, he said. Thats something thats going to stick with me. And, he added, nobody did anything to protect him. Levin said he peripherally witnessed violence that included the stabbings, but was too caught up in what was happening in front of him for anything else to fully register until after, when he reviewed his and other photos and videos on social media and news websites. Warning: The following video contains graphic footage. The Ku Klux Klan had announced last week that it planned to hold a rally at Pearson Park. When a group of six Klansmen pulled up in a black SUV about noon Saturday, about 30 counter-protesters were there waiting for them, police said. Levin had been there since about 10 a.m., planning to interview Klan members and document the rally. He said he has attended hate rallies as a researcher for about 20 years. Previously, he was a New York Police Department officer. When the Klansmen arrived, All hell broke loose, Levin said. Everything happened and escalated incredibly fast. One of the first things Levin noticed, he said, was the apparent lack of police. Theres nobody here to put some kind of pause on this, he thought. The Anaheim Police Department said in a news release Saturday night they had a contingent of officers dedicated to the event. Those officers were on scene immediately as the violence erupted and called for additional personnel, the release stated. Levin said he saw a phalanx of protesters moving swiftly in the direction of the Klan members. As he walked toward the SUV, he saw people with wooden planks smashing the windshield and a rear window. Videos posted to social media showed a chaotic, violent scene: black-clad Klansmen holding signs and flags, both American and Confederate; a bloody fistfight; a Klansman using a flag to fend off an encroaching crowd; another being kicked while on the ground. The SUV soon sped away, Levin said but it left behind three Klansmen who faced a crowd of angry counter-protesters. Thats when Levins police training kicked in. My thing was about making sure nobody was hurt and making sure to document what was going on, he said. He found himself protecting two of the Klansmen, who he estimated were being attacked by somewhere between six and 15 counter-protesters. This is not what Dr. King was about, he told the group as he put himself between the two opposing sides, using his body and his words to try to keep them apart. At least one of the Klansmen fell to the ground, an especially vulnerable position. Levin said he wanted to lead them away because it would be harder to hit a moving target. So Levin ran with the two Klansmen, still shooting video with his iPhone. Levin said he was jostled and tossed, but not struck or injured. According to video footage, the entire event unfolded within the span of only three minutes. After police arrived, Levin continued to document the rally as he originally had intended. In an exchange recorded on his iPhone, Levin asked one of the Klansmen: How do you feel that a Jewish person helped save your life today? I thank you, the man said with a nod. I thank you. When Levin continued, asking if he thought Jews were bad people, the Klansman said, I would save a colored mans life, or before the video clip ended. Saturday wasnt the first time Levin protected a Klansmen from attack. He did so in 1998 at a rally in Warren, Ohio. Have you ever wondered how pairing Peanut Butter Patties Girl Scout Cookies and Domini Veneti, Amarone della Valpolicella 2012 tastes, or what happens when Thin Mints pair with a Campogiovanni Brunello Di Montalcino 2010 from Tuscany? Just ask recent wine-and-cookie experts Terry Flores of Chino or her friend Diane Ajayi of Rancho Cucamonga. The dry wine just kind of mellows out the mint, said Flores, who added she would be going to town on a box later this week. You have to sip first, bite and sip again, said Ajayi. They were amazing. Luna Zamora, who brought the cookie boxes to San Antonio Winery in Ontario, wasnt able to take part in the pairings. Thats because shes 9. But she did appreciate the bump in business. Lunas mom, Lisette Zamora, got the call from San Antonio Winery manager Kevin Franke, who noticed the trend around wineries in the area and decided to give it a try on Sunday before the Oscars. Lisette Zamora said the pairings are easy to pull off and said the bottle you already have in your wine fridge should make an excellent selection. I suddenly had this crazy idea. I ripped open a box of Caramel deLites and paired it with Malbec wine, said Zamora. I threw a marketing event in my home and all my friends came and they all left with loads and loads of cookies. Lisette and Luna Zamora, of Orange, have a goal to sell 500 boxes. Luna has been a Girl Scout since she was 5. Part of the box sales go to the Orange County Animal Shelter and to help military personnel serving abroad. For those who prefer a more traditional pairing, Luna Zamora recommends Peanut Butter Patties with milk. I always eat a bunch of cookies, said Luna. To find the nearest Girl Scout Cookie booth sale, use the Girl Scout Cookie finder at girlscoutcookies.org. Contact the writer: community@pressenterprise.com My husband and I didnt know quite what to expect as a petite woman in neon-green scrubs escorted us to a small tent. Waiting at a folding table was a gray-haired plastic surgeon from Los Angeles in a white lab coat. Large headphones covered his ears, and he was snacking on nuts. What is your condition? he asked without making eye contact. His pen was poised above a medical marijuana referral form. I was about to experience firsthand a process the state is working to reform: how Californians get medical marijuana cards. I didnt intend to test the system, which has remained largely unregulated in the 20 years since voters approved medical marijuana. But it was my first week on the job as Freedom Communications first pot reporter, and I was intent on covering High Times magazines Cannabis Cup at the National Orange Show Events Center in San Bernardino. RELATED: Study warns pot industry could be next Big Tobacco I knew going into the festival that a medicating area would be restricted to medical marijuana cardholders. Within minutes, however, we discovered that all 300 vendors showing off the latest cannabis industry products and even the food trucks were in that cordoned-off area. The rest of us were limited to attending a concert that wouldnt start for hours and a sparsely populated seminar room. Then we noticed The Green Doctors, a Venice-based business that had set up a mobile clinic just inside the festival. Out front was a sign suggesting ailments that might merit a medical marijuana referral. It included migraines, which Ive suffered from since high school, and insomnia, which my husband battles after 20 years in the nightlife industry. We asked a clipboard-wielding man who was buzzing around the entrance how much it cost to get a card. He said $20 for the exam and $25 for the card. We handed over our drivers licenses and each received a two-page form. It had some biographical questions. Then there was space to list health conditions weve had for six months that we felt might be helped by cannabis. Soon, we were at the table with the doctor. Within a minute, he had signed referrals for us both. He didnt ask follow-up questions about our conditions. And the doctor didnt offer advice as to how we might treat those maladies, such as what type of cannabis would best ease my migraines or how much my husband should consume to help him sleep. GOOD FAITH EXAM? Broader concerns about the industrys vetting procedures inspired portions of SB643, authored by Sen. Mike McGuire, D-Healdsburg. The bill, one of three being rolled out as part of the Medical Marijuana Regulation and Safety Act, requires the state Medical Board to prioritize discipline of physicians who have repeatedly recommended excessive cannabis or cannabis without a good faith examination. My husband and I didnt realize when we left the doctors table that our exam was over. We were ushered to a second roped-off area in front of another tent. We expected more medical questions or maybe a physical check. We waited. Then we waited some more. The crowd of mostly young men in the holding area was getting restless. The scent of marijuana and lure of music from the medicating area kept reminding those still on the outside what they were missing. After nearly two hours, it was our turn to head into the second tent. Lucy Khalil, general manager of The Green Doctors, was waiting with a white lab coat on. She told us it was $80 for a three-month referral or $160 for a year. She also encouraged us to splurge for a $25 photo ID card, assuring us it would be the best thing to show the police if we were ever stopped. We told her we had been quoted a price of $45 out front. She insisted we must have misunderstood the man with the clipboard because of his accent. My husband decided it wasnt worth it and asked for his ID back. Khalil said fine, but it would still be $40 for the exam. Dozens of online Yelp reviews and a Better Business Bureau complaint by people claiming to have been customers of the Venice Beach shop raised bait and switch concerns, claiming sidewalk hawkers quoted them a price of $40 that more than doubled before they had cards in hand. Khalil later told me The Green Doctors never has engaged in misleading pricing or promotion practices. McGuires bill, which took affect Jan. 1, includes a ban on deceptive advertising. Khalil pointed out that her clinic has to pay to participate in events such as Cannabis Cup. She declined to share the cost or how much money The Green Doctors made during the five-day festival. BASICALLY ALREADY LEGAL My husband and I had a choice. We could each be out $40 and two hours or spend another $40 and step into the heart of Cannabis Cup. We forked over our debit card. Khalil handed us our drivers licenses, a list of potential cannabis side effects and certificates with gold foil seals. She quickly secured paper wristbands and set us free to enter the medicating area. Inside, dispensaries were offering free bong hits and marijuana-infused gummy bears. I didnt partake, instead collecting quotes and story ideas. A Santa Ana dispensary owner I spoke with later laughed when I told him how much we had paid. He showed me the website HelloMD, where a video chat with a doctor can get you a 12-month card for $49. He also chuckled about the exam process, saying its essentially just a formality at this point. Whether California voters approve recreational marijuana use as expected in November isnt as big a deal as some suggest, he added. Its basically already legal. Khalil noted that state law leaves referrals to a physicians discretion. This is just about a doctors opinion, she said. And to be fair, patients share similar stories about how easy it is to get prescriptions for painkillers and other drugs that can be much more addictive. Contact the writer: 714-796-7963 or bstaggs@ocregister.com America in recent years has become more aware of police abuses, even killings, of citizens. Orange County has witnessed some horrific cases, such as the 2011 death of Kelly Thomas, a homeless man, after a beating by Fullerton police. In a 2014 trial, two officers were acquitted of murder charges. The city, however, in November paid Mr. Thomas father a $4.9 million settlement of his wrongful-death lawsuit. One frustration of watchdogs and the public is the tight lock California police departments keep on officer misconduct records because of a 1978 state law. As reported by the citys CBS/TV affiliate, San Francisco District Attorney George Gascon explained, California is among a minority of states that makes police disciplinary records confidential. That policy contributes to the feeling that police departments are hiding something even if theyre not which ultimately adds to the mistrust between police and the communities they serve. This dynamic has a detrimental effect on our public safety, Mr. Gascon said. To correct this, Senate Bill 1286 has been introduced by state Sen. Mark Leno, D-San Francisco. The Senate summary of the bill states it would require certain records relating to complaints against peace officers and custodial officers to be available for public inspection. Records still could be withheld if disclosure would pose a significant danger to the physical safety of the peace officer, custodial officer or others. San Francisco is the latest flashpoint on the misconduct issue. As CBS reported, The bill comes in the wake of a number of fatal officer-involved shootings, including the November 2015 death of 29-year-old San Francisco resident Mario Woods, whose body had 20 gunshot wounds. Opposition to SB1286 comes from Sacramento County Sheriff Scott Jones, board president of the California Peace Officers Association, who said in a statement, To require disclosure in every case would be unfair in a process by which an agency is required to take and investigate complaints and its officers have little or no control over any complaint that may be made against him or her. But Mr. Gascon pointed out that, in his stint as police chief in Mesa, Ariz., which has a relatively more open records laws, Not only did it not harm the well-being of officers to have an open records policy in Mesa, it actually helped police officers and departments be close to their community. We believe that is a worthy goal, and the Legislature should pass SB1286. As voters in 12 states head to voting booths and caucuses for primaries on Super Tuesday, March 1, whoever wins the GOP presidential nomination could help or hurt Inland Republicans running for office. If billionaire front-runner Donald Trump wins the nomination, it could be a disaster for Inland Republicans in competitive races, said Jack Pitney, a professor of politics at Claremont McKenna College. It is a sure bet that Trump would lead to massive Hispanic turnout in favor of the Democratic nominee, probably Hillary Clinton, Pitney said. Trump might also stimulate some turnout among working-class whites, but that is a lot less certain. If the nominee is Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, (It) would be a modest plus, Pitney said. He would not gain a majority of the Hispanic vote, but he would probably do better than recent Republican nominees. And he certainly would not trigger a massive Hispanic turnout against the GOP. Two Inland congressional Democrats targeted by the GOP for defeat in 2016 represent sizable Latino populations. Rep. Pete Aguilar of Redlands represents a district thats 51 percent Latino while the district represented by Rep. Raul Ruiz of Palm Desert is 49 percent Latino, census figures show. Texas Sen. Ted Cruz, Ohio Gov. John Kasich and retired neurosurgeon Ben Carson also are seeking the Republican nomination. But the prospects for Rubio, a GOP establishment favorite, improve if he survives Super Tuesday, said Steve Woolpert, a political science professor at St. Marys College of California. If he does, and if Kasich bows out, (Rubio) will have ample opportunities in a three-way battle to make a comeback later in March, including a critically important primary in his home state of Florida, Woolpert said. The schedule becomes even more favorable (for Rubio) in April and May when the primary season turns to the delegate-rich moderate and well-educated states along the coasts, including California. However, Trump has now shown that his drawing power in three very different primaries, across a surprising breadth of voting groups, is greater than that of his rivals, Woolpert said. At this point, Id expect (Trump) to be the most helpful to GOP candidates in state contests. That said, it is also true that he has higher negative ratings in the polls than any presidential candidate from either party. A Field Poll conducted in January found Cruz leading among likely California GOP primary voters at 25 percent, with Trump at 23 percent and Rubio at 13 percent. COUNTING ON SPIRIT Republicans and conservative activists believe enthusiasm is more important than who the GOP nominee is. I do not believe that a potential Donald Trump presidential nomination has any ill effects on electing local Republicans, said Scott Mann, chairman of the Republican Party of Riverside County and mayor of Menifee. Riverside County Republicans will rally around whoever the ultimate nominee is they always have. In fact, there seems to be more energy in the party at the grassroots level because Trump is creating a buzz among the electorate that I havent seen in some time, especially with younger voters who are concerned about their futures and those voters disgruntled with both established parties. As a result, we are tapping into that energy and focusing our efforts locally on voter registration get-out-the-vote operations in our locally targeted races. John Berry, media coordinator for the Redlands Tea Party Patriots, said having Trump as the nominee would be hugely positive for Republicans. Compared with Democrats, GOP voter turnout in Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina was higher, Berry said. John Thomas, a political strategist working for Republican congressional candidate Paul Chabot, believes Democrats are suffering from a lack of enthusiasm. Democratic presidential candidate and Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders supporters have been particularly vocal, and questions have dogged Clinton about whether she can inspire that kind of passion. They are not happy with Hillary Clinton and dont trust her, said Thomas, whose candidate is running against Aguilar. Republicans are enthused and will turn out in both June and November. The other Republican in the race, Sean Flynn, also is counting on GOP voter enthusiasm. Theres less of an incentive for Democrats to turn out because it is expected that California will go for the Democratic nominee, said Flynn campaign manager Andy Hansen. Howard Katz, chairman of the Riverside County Democratic Party, is confident Democrats can win no matter who the Republicans nominate. Trump doesnt have enough support from the electorate as a whole and Rubio and Cruz offer a theocratic form of government that voters will reject, Katz said. That said, its essential Democrats turn out to vote, he said. We have to support whoever the (Democratic) nominee is, Katz said. The (Bernie Sanders) folks cant shut down and vice versa. LOSING VOTERS This election cycle finds California Republicans once again fighting to make headway in hostile territory. No Republican has won statewide office since 2006, and Californias electoral votes havent gone to a GOP presidential candidate since 1988. Democrats control 52 of the Assemblys 80 seats and 26 of 40 state Senate seats. While the California GOP took away the Democrats two-thirds legislative supermajority in 2014, it failed to win a contested congressional race in a year in which Republicans took control of the U.S. Senate and expanded their majority in the House of Representatives. Adding to Republican woes is a trend thats seen the number of GOP-registered voters in California fall. Just under 28 percent of California voters were registered Republicans as of January, down from 35 percent in October 1999. Democrats make up the plurality of voters at 43 percent, down from 46 percent in 1999. Meanwhile, the number of independent voters has grown from 13.5 percent in 1999 to 24 percent today. The GOP lost 400,000 voters in the past four years, so building the Republican brand will be critical if they hope to remain a viable party in the state, said Jennifer Walsh, dean of the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences and a political science professor at Azusa Pacific University in Azusa. There are very conservative GOP candidates who continue to do well in certain Inland district areas. But most Republicans who run for office in swing districts know that they have to appeal to the moderate middle if they hope to succeed, she said. A moderate presidential candidate like Rubio, who polls well with Republican Latinos, or Kasich, who polls well with blue-collar voters from both parties, could help Republicans build this more moderate brand. But it remains to be seen what a Trump nomination would do to local Republicans. Contact the writer: 951-368-9547 or jhorseman@pressenterprise.com Sanjay G. Patel, whose childhood growing up in a San Bernardino motel inspired his Oscar-nominated animated film Sanjays Super Team, lost out to Bear Story Sunday night at the 88th annual Academy Awards in Hollywood. Patel, 41, who directed the film for Pixar where hes worked 20 years in Emeryville, attended the show at the Dolby Theatre with his fiancee, author/editor Emily Haynes. In a phone interview at the Lido Motel in San Bernardino, his father Gopal Patel, 76, said: I would have liked him to win. Im really sorry. I was really excited this morning waiting for the Oscars. If God wants something, my son would win it. If God doesnt want him to win, my son just has to accept it. The message is, try again. Gopal Patel and his wife, Ramila, 71, have lived in a couple of rooms at the Lido Motel in San Bernardino since buying it in 1981. A self-described lonely, introverted boy, Sanjay escaped into a fantasy world, reading comic books, and watching superhero cartoons on TV. The set shared the front room with his fathers shrine to Hindu deities. A dutiful son, Sanjay worshiped with his father twice daily, torn between switching on the television and focusing on his prayers and meditations. Sanjays Super Team, set in this beige room, captures the boys reconciliation with Indian traditions as he turns Hindu gods into powerful superheroes. Sanjay credits his public school art teachers in San Bernardino for nurturing, mentoring, even mothering him. His father was busy running the motel and caring fulltime for his mother, who suffered from schizophrenia, Sanjay said. I escaped with art, cartoons and comics the way my dad escaped with his spirituality, he said in a prior interview. Sanjay also said that he was heartened by the films response from immigrants and natives alike, who thanked him for telling their story. Contact the writer: 951-368-9559 llucas@pressenterprise.com Australian media in Rome to cover Cardinal George Pells appearance before the Royal Commission into Child Sexual Abuse via video link have allegedly been shoved, punched, and otherwise treated with heavy-handed tactics by members of Cardinal Pells security team. As per reports in the Sydney Morning Herald, a number of big, burly security guards assaulted the television crew waiting for Cardinal Pell outside the hotel, before he even got out of the car; one cameraman was allegedly punched in the stomach, while another was pushed over. Channel 7 reporter Chris Reason called the security team extremely aggressive in a tweet, confirming that Italian police are reviewing video footage of Cardinal Pell arriving to ensure the guards were acting in a legal manner. George Pell arrived via a side gate, security team extremely aggressive, swept media aside Chris Reason (@ChrisReason7) February 28, 2016 Now Italian police are reviewing video of George Pells arrival checking whether the private security were acting legally Chris Reason (@ChrisReason7) February 28, 2016 His colleague Hugh Whitfeld tweeted similar: Pells heavies aggressively push media away as he arrives to give evidence before victims in Rome. #royalcommission Hugh Whitfeld (@hughwhitfeld) February 28, 2016 Cardinal Pell has arrived at Hotel Quirinale .. His security manhandling/shoving Aus TV camera #royalcommission pic.twitter.com/Q4OTgNWMY3 Hugh Whitfeld (@hughwhitfeld) February 28, 2016 Italian Police reviewing Aus TV vision after Pells heavies strong arm media outside #royalcommission in Rome. pic.twitter.com/ObHOq1uWdd Hugh Whitfeld (@hughwhitfeld) February 28, 2016 So not a *great* start, then. Meanwhile, abuse survivors have also arrived, with one, Anthony Foster, responding to Cardinal Pells back door arrival and heavy-handed security team with the quip, Were used to it. UPDATE: anyone wishing to live stream Cardinal Pell giving evidence can do so HERE. Source: Fairfax. Photo: Hugh Whitfeld / Twitter. It seems like a bit of a paradox that as plastic waste gets smaller, it seems to mess up wildlife in increasingly terrible ways. Yet, thats exactly what happens when the microbeads found in face scrubs and body washes flow down the drain, and those sprinkle-lookin bastards actually do a number on sea-life. Incidentally, Best Minister In The World Greg Hunt has a vested interest in said animals as part of his environmental portfolio, and today he issued an ultimatum to cosmetic companies that are still packing their products with the polyurethane pellets: quit it, ASAP, or theyll be banned by law. We will continue to work with companies towards a voluntary phase-out of microbeads. However, if by 1 July 2017 it is clear that the voluntary phase-out will not achieve what is effectively a widespread ban on microbeads, the Federal Government will take action to implement a ban in law. A number of firms have already pledged, exfoliated-hand-over-heart, that the use of microbeads will be curtailed. According to ABC, that number includes giants like Unilever, Johnson & Johnson, and LOreal, but Hunt is obviously not too chuffed with the industrys drive to voluntarily eliminate microbeads by July 2018. The threat was announced at the same time the government pledged $60k to investigate new ways to reduce plastic waste in the water, which makes sense we are girt by sea, and all that. In a statement, he wrote every one of our favourite beaches and fishing spots is open to contamination by plastic waste and research suggests the problem is growing. Plastic waste is a massive problem for turtles like Bertha. Were taking a tougher stance https://t.co/bwhgRvAskY pic.twitter.com/Cd4hmyVsF4 Greg Hunt (@GregHuntMP) February 28, 2016 Of course, this push comes after he helped green-light a coal port smack-bang next to the Great Barrier Reef, so it aint all sunshine and daisies. The United States is already moving to nix them, too. Still, putting the screws to companies who continue to literally flush known pollutants into the ocean is a fair dinkum thing to do. Source: ABC Photo: YouTube. Yesterday, the always-controversial Daily Telegraph columnist Miranda Devine penned a piece in which she expressed her deepest concern that Cardinal George Pell who is right now giving evidence to the Royal Commission into Child Sexual Abuse in Rome was the victim of an entirely underserved slew of widespread vitriol. Watching Pell tomorrow [now today] will be a self-invited group of about 120, including 50 journalists and assorted victims, supporters and Pell-haters who have travelled to Rome, largely on the proceeds of an abusive ditty by anti-Catholic crooner Tim Minchin, calling Pell scum and coward, she wrote. The royal commission has sent support staff and media people, at unknown cost, to assist this unofficial lynch mob. And so it goes on, with Devine asserting that the worst accusation being levelled against Pell is that he helped move notorious paedophile priest Gerald Ridsdale from parish to parish in the 1970s. Look, its not fun reading, and we dont really recommend you do it. Perhaps as the frequent target herself of widespread vitriol, Devine is merely sympathising with someone at whom so much hate has been directed. Which is partly what makes the below so interesting, precisely because its not a keyboard-smashing rage piece. (Guilty.) Ballarat woman Clare Linane, whose husband, brother and cousin were all sexually abused by Brother Edward Dowlan in the 1970s, posted her response to Devines column on Facebook, and rather than raging at someone who called her loved ones assorted victims like they were a pack of pic-n-mix, its calm, measured, and ultimately heart-breaking as hell. For example: You correctly state that Chief Commissioner Graham Ashton claimed 43 suicides related to child sexual abuse in the Victorian Church, but, after an internal investigation, only one could be confirmed. As stated by my husband, it seems that unless you put a post it note on your head and say Im committing suicide because I was sexually abused, it is very easy to dismiss individual cases. The reality is, many of the victims themselves dont even make the connection. So lets look at the patterns, Miranda. Of Phil Nagles 1974 grade four class at St Alepius, 12 out of 34 (35%) are dead, by premature death including suicide. I see you were born in 1960 Miranda. I encourage you to look up your grade 4 class list and see if 35% of them were dead by the age of 50. Im guessing they werent. Hopefully the Commission will look into why broader patterns such as these were not considered when the internal police investigation was conducted. Have a read of the full thing below: Unfortunately my response was too long to post on Mirandas article directly. So here it is ..Hello Miranda, my name Posted by Clare Linane on Sunday, 28 February 2016 Photo: Daily Telegraph / Facebook. GULFPORT, Mississippi -- Sheriff's deputies say an argument ended with one man dead, another with multiple gunshot wounds. Harrison County Coroner Gary Hargrove tells The Sun Herald 23-year-old Richard Doby, of Gulfport, died Saturday night of a gunshot wound to the chest. Sheriff Troy Peterson says 21-year-old Shaquille Sands, of Gulfport, has been charged with murder and aggravated assault. Peterson said deputies responded to a report of a shooting on Robindale Road in the Crown Hill subdivision, north of Interstate 10 in Gulfport. Peterson says the wounded man was taken to Memorial Hospital, where he is listed in serious condition. His identity was not released. Sands was booked into the Harrison County jail on a $1.5 million bond. Online jail records do not list an attorney for him. Finding the funds to fly fifteen Australian survivors of abuse at the hands of the Catholic church to Rome may have just been the easy part. Hearing the live testimony given by Cardinal George Pell to the ongoing royal commission into sexual abuse on children? Significantly harder. Thats the experience projected by Paul Levey, who spoke to The Project tonight from The Vatican. A lot of us didnt have a lot of sleep last night, so weve sort of gone 24 hours without sleep. But we had to do it, we had to be there when he entered the room, and it was pretty important to us. When asked about the cardinals answers to certain questions, Levey said Pells memories didnt add up; while he could precisely recall details of his education and priesthood, he pulled out the old oh, Im having a seniors moment' response to some inquisitions about the abuse. We speak to survivor Paul Levey about hearing Cardinal #Pells testimony in Rome #TheProjectTV https://t.co/XDZM16Wie3 #TheProjectTV (@theprojecttv) February 29, 2016 Levey also said wed like the Cardinal to really recognise that this crime is serious, and it was such a large-scale crime committed by a lot of members of the clergy. Tonights comments come after he said we spoke in front of the world, really, so we believe he should feel a little bit of that pressure we didnt think it was fair that he would be sitting in the Vatican and testify by video link, practically in his lounge room. Critically, Cardinal Pell denied knowledge of paedophile priests in the Ballarat diocese when he was a priest there, and he lambasted the way Gerald Ridsdale was shuttled between parishes but he maintained he had no knowledge of his abuses at the time. Hes expected to give evidence for much of the week, with the next session taking place from tomorrow morning. Levey and fourteen others will be there again, too. Source: The Project. Photo: Twitter. Leo finally won an Oscar. Sly didn't. Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu became the first filmmaker in nearly 75 years to win the best director award in consecutive years, taking home the trophy for "The Revenant" a year after winning for "Birdman" -- even if his film lost out in the best picture race this year to "Spotlight." But the real story surrounding Sunday night's 88th annual Academy Awards wasn't who won, or even who was nominated. It was for who wasn't. The lack of diversity among this year's all-white slate of acting nominees dominated the conversation leading up to Sunday's show, propelled by the #OscarsSoWhite hashtag and calls among some to boycott the show. At the same time, it also promised no shortage of sharp, timely commentary for those who did tune in. In an age in which the Academy's annual orgy of self-congratulation can easily be dismissed as so much frivolous vanity, this year's Oscars promised to be different. This year, they promised to matter. With Chris Rock lined up to host -- a comic whose observations about race in America are both funny and insightful even in less-controversial times -- Sunday's show didn't disappoint in that department. "Is Hollywood racist?," Rock asked in his opening monologue. "You're damn right Hollywood's racist. But it ain't the kind of racist that you've grown accustomed to. Hollywood is sorority racist. It's like, 'We like you, Rhonda -- but you're not a Kappa.' That's how Hollywood is." While direct, those were some of Rock's least edgy remarks about race Sunday night. "Things are going to be a little different at the Oscars this year. The in memoriam package, it's just going to be black people who were shot by cops on their way to the movies," he said, as initial shock from the audience gave away to applause. From there, it got only edgier. "The big question: Why this Oscars?," Rock asked. "It's the 88th Academy Awards, which means this whole 'no black nominees' thing has happened at least 71 other times. You've got to figure it happened in the '50s, in the '60s. ... And black people didn't protest. Why? Because we had real things to protest at the time. We were too busy being raped and lynched to care about who won best cinematography. You know, when your grandmother is swinging from a tree, it's really hard to care about best documentary foreign short." The discussion, in fact, started even before the show did. While many African-American actors, including past nominees Will Smith and Spike Lee, opted to steer clear of the ceremony this year, not all of black Hollywood followed suit. Past supporting-actor winner Louis Gossett Jr. ("An Officer and a Gentleman") was there, for example, telling CNN anchor and Baton Rouge native Don Lemon that he figured he could most effectively influence opinion by using his voice to try to affect change from inside "the family" of Hollywood. Whoopi Goldberg, also a past winner ("Ghost"), was there, too, although she downplayed the controversy. "Last two years, it didn't happen," she told Lemon on the red carpet. "Two years before that, we were everywhere. The folks who should really be screaming and shouting about this are the Asian actors, who are way underrepresented. And I think that will change because I think people are now starting to pay attention. Now, we'll see how long it lasts. We'll see if people really mean to make the change." Once the curtain went up, the night wasn't without its rocky moments, production-wise. Neither was it without the typical lulls. Despite the Academy's attempts to cut down on acceptance speeches by employing a ticker at the bottom of the screen for winners' obligatory and time-consuming thank-you lists -- which was an effective tactic, truth be told -- the show held onto its habit of indulging in a few too many montages, to say nothing of the often-hacky shtick of its celebrity presenters. Even with its attempted shortcuts, the show clocked in at 3 hours 37 minutes, the longest since -- well, last year, when it lasted 3 hours 43 minutes. Along the way, the show addressed political issues other than the #OscarsSoWhite controversy, from the presidential election (Adam McKay, winner for best adapted screenplay, for "The Big Short") to the environment (Leonardo DiCaprio, winner of the best actor award for "The Revenant") to honor killings (Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy, winner of best documentary short, for "A Girl in the River"). Perhaps the most poignant moment came when Lady Gaga took the stage to perform her nominated song, "Til It Happens to You" from the documentary "The Hunting Ground," about campus sexual abuse. Introduced by Vice President Joe Biden and joined by dozens of survivors of on-campus sexual abuse, it was a powerful and emotional performance that earned a well-deserved standing ovation. But in the final analysis they were all side issues Sunday night. About 45 minutes before showtime, Rock took to social media to share a photo of himself, tuxedoed and in his trailer, while editing his Oscar monolog -- with a rainbow-colored pen. It was the first sign that he was approaching the show with a mission. Cutting the fat off my monologue #oscars pic.twitter.com/ngMQD6LAkt Chris Rock (@chrisrock) February 29, 2016 In fact, Rock addressed the diversity issue from his very first words from the stage, delivered after an opening montage celebrating the year in film. "I counted at least 15 black people in that montage," he said. He continued through to the end: "I want to invite everyone here to the BET Awards this summer," he said in signing off at the show's end. In between, he and the Academy made sure the focus stayed on what for many was the most important thing of the night -- even more important than the golden statuettes being handed out. In one of the night's earlier gags, they hilariously inserted black actors into various nominated pictures, from a dress-wearing Tracy Morgan in "The Danish Girl" to a mop-wielding Whoopi Goldberg in "Joy" to Leslie Jones -- as a bear -- in "The Revenant." They included a "Black History Month Moment," hosted by Angela Bassett -- and "celebrating" the very white Jack Black. They dispatched Rock to conduct candid man-on-the-street interviews with moviegoers at a theater in Compton. It wasn't all played for laughs, though. When Academy President Cheryl Boone Isaacs took the stage to deliver her annual comments, she made it clear the Academy was serious about addressing its diversity issue. "The Oscars celebrate the storytellers who have the opportunity to work in the powerful medium of film, and with that opportunity comes responsibility," she said. "Our audiences are global and rich in diversity, and every facet of our industry should be as well. Everyone in the Hollywood community has a role to play in bringing about the vital changes the industry needs so we can accurately reflect the world today." Now comes the hard part: Making sure it follows through on that promise. LevyPhoto.jpg Pictured is Jared Levy (front) during his trip around the world as part of the Bravo reality television series "Tour Group." (Bravo Media/NBCUniversal) As a trader in some of the biggest cities in the country, Jared Levy didn't allow himself to be vulnerable. That's how it was for the 39-year-old derivatives trader ever since he grew up in northeast Philadelphia and Central City. Any sign of what he thought on the trading floors of New York and Chicago could spell the loss of millions of dollars, so Levy kept his guard up. Thing is, he also put up walls around himself when it came to his relationships. But after the loss of his friends in the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Levy knew he needed to bring those walls down. That's why Levy chose to star in Bravo's "Tour Group," which premieres 10 p.m. Tuesday, March 1. It's a reality television series, but no one's getting voted off an island every week. Instead, the show follows 11 people as they travel to "exotic and exclusive destinations around the globe" on their search for the ultimate vacation, according to a news release about the show. "Like any vacation, the best and worst are sure to come out with a wild mix of personalities who have chosen to disrupt their routine lives and venture abroad to foreign surroundings," it reads. Today, Levy writes two weekly financial newsletters and appears as a commentator on the national Fox Business network. He's also authored two books. PennLive.com caught up with the trader, who's returned to his home in Dallas after his travels around the world. What did your friends and colleagues say when you told them that you were going to be a part of 'Tour Group?' "They loved the idea, but having a lot of eyeballs on your little vacation, your little getaway got a mixed sort of response. Half of my friends were like, 'Hey, don't do it. You're showing your life off to the world. That's a little weird.' And the other ones were so enamored with the opportunity to travel around the world." How did growing up in Philadelphia prepare you for the trading pits? "Growing up Philly was hard. That's where I learned not to take (expletive) from anybody. You approach every situation with skepticism. It's a tough way to grow up, and then the (trading floor) hardened me even more because now I'm trading and tens of millions of dollars are on the line and, at any second, if you show your hand, that could all go away." How did working in the pits affect your personal life? "I purposely shut off my heart... and I guess around 28 years old, the single and fast life was a bit a much although I was having fun with it. Just so you know, The Wolf of Wall Street guy, Jordan Belfort, I met him. I hung out with one of his cronies and all that stuff that you see in (the movie) -- I mean, minus the drugs, I was never really into drugs -- was completely accurate if not understated." And how did those experiences prepare you for 'Tour Group'? "I never let myself go. I would never, ever let anyone else take control nor would I go on a trip for two months with 11 strangers... I guess I was just ready after September 11. I lost a lot of friends... I've been exploring myself and being more vulnerable and, when I was given the opportunity to go on the trip, I was like 'Oh my God. This is the perfect time and the perfect opportunity to let everything go.'" What went through your head after the 9/11 terrorist attacks that made you change your life? "So you know those moments when you're with someone you care about? You know that moment when you know that person loves you and you love them? I didn't have one of those moments, you know, as a trader and growing up. My parents were very loving. That wasn't the problem. But just elsewhere in my personal life, I never let anybody in. A couple of my friends that passed away, they were great guys and girls. I was thinking about my relationships with them, their families... I just needed to start handling my relationships a little differently. I felt isolated and lonely. I was upset with myself, and I wanted to open up my heart a little bit more." Was there something that shaped you as a person while you were on the show? "There are dozens of mind-blowing, life-changing motivational experiences. But when we hiked eight hours to see the mountain gorillas in Rwanda and have them come and touch you and look you in the eye and to watch their family structure. They were wild, and we were up there with guard with AK-47s... I guess, for me, when I saw that, I realized that 'You know what? If I meet somebody and I feel good about them, why not open up to them? Why not trust them the way these gorillas are trusting us?" Did the show teach you anything about opening yourself up? "It taught me that it was not that easy. It's a step forward, but there's a lot more to go." "Tour Group" premieres on Bravo at 10 p.m. tomorrow. Twenty high school seniors representing the class of 2016 will be honored in the 24th annual PennLive/The Patriot-News Best & Brightest program. Entries are due by 4:30 p.m. March 7, 2016, at the PA Media Group office, 2020 Technology Parkway, Suite 300, Mechanicsburg, PA 17050. A postmark of March 7 is acceptable. Recipients are featured in a special publication in The Sunday Patriot-News in May and in a photo gallery and profiles on PennLive. The winners also are invited to a reception in May. There is no scholarship awarded to students selected to be part of the Best and Brightest program. Download the application here or below: BBapp2016.pdf To be eligible, a senior must have at least a B or 3.0 grade average, although a grade below 3.0 should not discourage a student from entering if extenuating circumstances can be cited. Seniors must attend a public or independent high school or be home-schooled or attend cyber school in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Juniata, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry or York counties. Local residents attending schools in other counties or states are not eligible. Selection of the 20 Best & Brightest is based on academic achievement, extracurricular activities and service to schools, peers and community. Educators assist in semifinalist selection, and leaders from business, the arts, education, faith and community choose the 20 finalists. For more information, contact Deb Kiner, content administrator, at 717-257-4749 or dkiner@pennlive.com. Stephayne McClure-Potts had grown so overweight that she was having difficulty climbing the three or four flights of stairs up to her Harrisburg apartment. One of her neighbors, a nice pleasant young man, took notice. He began to help her with her bags. Asher Potts would put down his bag and carry the woman's grocery bags and laundry basket up the stairs. A friendship soon sparked between them and before long was heading toward something more serious: McClure-Potts and her husband, Michael Potts, were considering adopting the young man. Asher Potts told the couple that he was an adolescent from Russia. He told them that Ukrainian boys in Harrisburg were beating him up - simply because he was Russian. At the time, tensions between Ukraine and Russian separatists in the former Soviet republic were high amid an escalating conflict that soon turned to war. The couple's heart went out to the young man. They grew fond of him. That, Carolyn Potts said, is the story she understands slowly intertwined the lives of the young man who was known to many in the Harrisburg community as Asher Potts and her son, Michael, and his wife, Stephayne, a few years ago. Carolyn, who is 86, lives in Arizona, in a small mountain town between Phoenix and Las Vegas. Contacted at her home on Sunday by PennLive, Carolyn did not know that the person she has considered to be her adoptive grandson was behind bars. Police last week arrested Artur Samarin, a 23-year-old Ukrainian national who police say had fabricated and assumed the identity of Asher Potts. Samarin has been charged with multiple felonies in connection to theft of identity and tampering with public records. Samarin had - under the name of Asher Potts - taken out a Social Security number and a Pennsylvania drivers license. Samarin claimed to be Asher Potts, an 18-year-old Harrisburg High School student. He has also been charged with sex crime felonies. Police say he was 22 when he had sex with a 15-year-old girl. There was little about the young man she knew as Asher Potts to dislike, Carolyn said. He visited her in Arizona and spent several weeks with her. She said she enjoyed his company. "He's a charmer," she said. "He has a great deal of charisma." Asher Potts had an excellent academic record and said he has his sights set on earning a doctorate degree in aerospace engineering. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Florida had accepted him into its College of Engineering. But there was something about the situation that didn't add up for her. "Somehow or the other I'm not totally astonished," Carolyn said with regards to the news that he was behind prison bars awaiting arraignment this week. "There was something about the whole situation. I couldn't put my finger on it from day one." Carolyn said the dates aren't sharp in her mind, but she remembers the details. She said flags went up a few years ago when she learned that her son Michael, who was nearing 60, and her daughter-in-law began adoption proceedings. "I had qualms," she said. "A Russian boy, supposedly an adolescent?" The couple, court records show, helped him enroll in school. When he enrolled in the Harrisburg School District as a freshman in 2012, Samarin had already graduated from high school and had even completed two years of college, court records indicate. On Sept. 17, 2014, McClure-Potts also helped Samarin obtain his Pennsylvania driver's license in the name of Asher Potts. Carolyn said her daughter-in-law, who didn't have children, very much wanted some. "I just had a feeling that this was too fortuitous," she said. She said her "grandson" told her he was Russian and had been born in 1997. According to her, Samarin arrived in central Pennsylvania a few years ago under an exchange program that landed him a warehouse job with the Hershey Company. Federal officials in 2014 filed civil penalties and fines against Exel Inc., Lemoyne-based SHS Staffing Solutions and the Council for Educational Travel-USA, which matched the foreign students with jobs in what was supposed to be an educational exchange program. Exel was ordered to pay $213,000 in back wages to some 1,028 foreign students who repackaged Hershey candies at a Palmyra distribution center during the summer of 2011. In 2011, hundreds of students employed at a Hershey Company distribution center as part of a foreign exchange worker program walked out in protest of bad working conditions and lack of pay. In this 2011 PennLive file photo, Ionut Bilam of Romania, left, Yana Bzengey of Ukraine and other J-1 students right, protest for the second day outside The Hershey Story. Jeff Beckman, a spokesman for the Hershey Company, on Sunday said the company would not have known about Samarin since it never hired anyone under the foreign guest worker program. He said the company has never participated in a J1 visa program, but rather the 2014 action was directed at Exel, a distribution contractor. Carolyn said the "other boys" who were with Asher Potts during his time at the Hershey distribution center were Ukrainian. Harrisburg police Sgt. Terry Wealand said authorities estimate Samarin came to the United States about four years ago under his original name and with a temporary visa. Called a J1 visa, it's a widely used permit used by foreign nationals who want to participate in an exchange visitor or internship program. The J1 visa obligates the student to return to their home country for a minimum of two years after the end of their studies in the USA before being eligible to apply for an immigrant (permanent residence) visa. Samarin seems to have circumvented those guidelines. When his J1 visa expired, he requested and received a B2 Tourist Visa. His B2 Tourist Visa expired on March 1, 2013. Records show that Asher Potts enrolled with the Harrisburg School District in 2012 and began to attend Harrisburg High School. He excelled at everything and was inducted into the National Honor Society. A freshman honor roll listing from April 2013 contained the name "Arthur Samarin." Carolyn said her grandson "did fantastically" well in school. He told her he had been accepted to Yale University with a full scholarship, among other schools. PennLive was not able to confirm that information from Yale on Sunday. "He's really quite bright," she said. Carolyn said the news of Samarin's arrest "answered questions in the back of her mind." She said her son called shortly before Christmas asking for money, saying the money "was about Asher." "I wondered what Asher had gotten into," she said. She said she sent the money, but has not heard from her family since before Christmas. She said that around Hanukkah last year, she became suspicious when her daughter-in-law called her and told her they had lost "98 percent of everything" in a house fire. Shortly after, the U.S. Postal Service returned to Carolyn a card she had written to Asher at his family's Harrisburg address. The postal service could not deliver the card to the address. "I didn't know what the heck was going on," she said. Carolyn said it is not entirely out of the realm of possibility that her son and daughter-in-law didn't have a clear picture of who Asher was. She said that in the late 1970s her son was in a serious car accident that left him fighting for his life and cognitive skills. Doctors did not expect him to regain full cognitive function. She said that while he made a remarkable recovery, he has not been the same since his accident. "I like the boy," Carolyn said of the young man she has considered her grandson. "But I've always felt a little bit suspicious. It seems too easy." Michael and Stephayne Potts are a biracial couple: Michael, who is Jewish, is white. Stephayne is black. In documents obtained by PennLive, Asher Potts checked off the "Black or African American" box under his ethnicity. His Harrisburg High School ROTC record indicates his race as being biracial. Carolyn said that to her "he looked Russian." "There's something about the shape of his face and nose and that's probably totally irrational," she said. She said she never questioned his age. "He has a bad case of acne," she said. Neighbors along North Fourth Street in Harrisburg said the young man who they knew as Asher Potts was respectful and courteous. Tanya Waters, who lived a few doors down from Asher and his parents, said she saw him almost every day and that he usually was wearing his cadet uniform. Willard Allen, who lived two doors down, had nothing but praise for the young man and his family. "He was always polite," Allen said of Asher. "He was well dressed. He didn't have a hard word for anybody." Allen helped his neighbors with their old van. He even went into the house one day when Stephayne Potts thought someone had broken in. Allen, however, didn't know his neighbors by name. "I never knew he was in high school," Allen said of the young man who was his neighbor. "I thought he was working. I knew he shouldn't be in school. To me, he looked like he was in his 20s. I have kids of my own so it's hard to fool me." Tracey Robinson said there was nothing about the young man that was unpleasant. "Nothing. Nothing," she said. "He was a respectful young man." The man she knew as Asher Potts - along with his parents Michael and Stephayne Potts - moved out of their Fourth Street home shortly before Thanksgiving. Neighbors say the Mercury Mountaineer truck parked in the back parking lot belongs to them. The truck has an expired inspection sticker and has a towing removal sticker on the driver's side window. On Dec. 11, Harrisburg police received a call from someone concerned that an adult man who was in the United States illegally was attending high school and "having sexual relationships with female students." Last week, a little over two months since the tipster raised the alarm, Samarin was arrested and charged with multiple felonies, including statutory sexual assault and corruption of minors. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, which had accepted him into its College of Engineering, this week rescinded its acceptance. Samarin remains in Dauphin County Prison with a $200,000 bond. He is charged six felonies, including theft, identity theft and tampering with public records. His preliminary arraignment is set for March 4 in front of District Judge Barbara Pianka. No charges appear to have been filed against the McClure-Potts or Potts in this case, according to the court docket. PennLive has not been able to confirm if the adoption was legal. Anyone with information on Samarin is asked to call Detective Paula Trovy at (717) 255-3158, Sgt. Terry Wealand at (717) 255-3115 or the Dauphin County police dispatch at (717) 558-6900 and ask for a detective. This story has been updated to reflect the increased bond of $200,000. GAP -- Thousands of Amish have flocked to eastern Lancaster County to help in the days since a category EF2 tornado touched down here causing an estimated $8 million in damage, officials report. As a result, remarkably swift progress has been made since then, with debris cleared and repairs already completed to some structures over the weekend. The area of impact is a six-mile swath in Salisbury Township, a heavily Amish and agrarian corner of the county. On Monday, helpers from Plain communities across the county and region continued to pour in. Workers repair buildings along Old Philadelphia Pike that were damaged by a tornado in Lancaster County. Buildings are damaged and debris is scattered on farms and houses near the village of White Horse in Salisbury Township, after a tornado caused damage in Lancaster County, February 25, 2016. Dan Gleiter, PennLive.com By that afternoon they had succeeded in rebuilding the bones of an Amish school building that was totally destroyed in the storm and in repairing a nearby barn heavily damaged when the tornado struck. The barn contained as many as 100 Amish there for a fundraiser at the time. None were seriously injured. The crews of mostly Amish and Mennonite volunteers continued to converge for massive lunch services in and around worksites and to be deployed throughout the day to various locations where there was still work to be done. Mark Beach, communications director with the Mennonite Disaster Service (MDS), said cleanup is expected to be completed by Tuesday, but that repairs will likely continue into next week. Upwards of 40 homes and properties were damaged, some destroyed, when the unusual February tornado, made possible by warmer and wetter than average weather, hit on Wednesday evening after a day of heavy winds, rains and tornado watches across the region. At just before 8 p.m., those watches turned to warnings in Lancaster County and soon after, some residents in the east reported experiencing power outages and the walls of their homes starting to shake as the tornado, with winds in excess of 100 miles per hour, bore down on them. The adjacent towns of Gap and White Horse were among the hardest hit, with as much as $8 million in damage tallied by state and local officials, much of it here. Fundraising to aid the victims continues, with MDS reporting the collection of $6,000 in donations through an online site since Friday. Beach said a local committee has been set up to distribute the funds to those in need. Workers repair buildings along Old Philadelphia Pike that were damaged by a tornado in Lancaster County. Buildings are damaged and debris is scattered on farms and houses near the village of White Horse in Salisbury Township, after a tornado caused damage in Lancaster County, February 25, 2016. Dan Gleiter, PennLive.com This as state officials announced federal disaster relief funding won't be coming to Lancaster County after last week's storms, with the state failing to meet the overall damage threshold needed to qualify. In addition, Lancaster County residents and businesses failed to meet a certain threshold for uninsured losses needed to qualify them for low-interest disaster relief loans through the federal government. Lancaster County Emergency Management Agency director Randy Gockley said this is because most tornado and wind damage is covered by a person's insurance, adding "usually this threshold is not met. In my 28 years with emergency management, I do not know of any tornado incident in the Commonwealth that met the requirements for federal assistance." Even if disaster relief had been approved for Lancaster County, Gockley said he's not sure the Amish and Mennonite victims here would have accepted it. "In private conversations with some of the Amish and Mennonite's involved, they were not looking for government assistance anyway," Gockley said. "Much of the reconstruction has been and will continue to be by Amish and Mennonite volunteers helping neighbors out. The balance will be covered by Church Insurance or Amish Aid as some call it where members of the Church will be assessed to assist with costs." EMA deputy director, Philip Colvin, said this self-sufficiency is "pretty much the culture in that part of the county." READ MORE HARRISBURG- Swatara Township police on Monday charged a Ukrainian man accused of posing as a high school student in Harrisburg with two misdemeanors for using his false identity to enroll in a citizens' police academy. Artur Samarin, 23, reportedly filled out an application for this year's academy under the name Asher Potts, 18. That's the name he used to attend Harrisburg High School and Harrisburg University, where he was dual enrolled. "Asher Potts" attended the first three academy sessions this month, said Swatara Township Police Chief Jason Umberger. The new charges of identity theft and unsworn falsification to authorities come after two felony sex crimes were filed against Samarin Friday. He also faces six felonies related to theft, identity theft, and tampering with public records. Samarin remained in jail Monday, where his bail bond for the various crimes stands at $240,000. Harrisburg police last week unmasked the "high school senior" as a Ukrainian national who allegedly falsified documents to remain in the United States after his work and tourist visas expired in 2013. Umberger said he met Samarin as "Asher Potts" several years ago at a Harrisburg police event. He ran into him again last month during Harrisburg's youth anti-violence forum, where Samarin was featured on a student panel. "He expressed an interest in applying for our citizens police academy and he did so," Umberger said. Samarin was one of 17 participants in the citizens' academy, which meets weekly to educate residents about police work. After Samarin's arrest last week, Umberger said he opened the investigation in his township. "Obviously it's a crime," to use false documentation, Umberger said. "We charged him with a crime accordingly." News that the person Umberger knew as Asher Potts could be someone else entirely was "disheartening," he said. "He was an affable young man," Umberger said. "He was always pleasant. He seemed very motivated." Attorney General Kathleen Kane has budgeted $750,000 -- and spent about $67,000 so far -- on a team of special prosecutors to investigate the exchange of lewd and offensive emails. "We can't turn a blind eye to it," she said, defending the investigation at a House budget hearing on Monday. "There are 13 million people in Pennsylvania and, when a woman walks into a courtroom, we have to guarantee that she's going to receive the same treatment [as anyone else]." Last month, Kane appointed former Maryland Attorney General Douglas Gansler to lead the investigation as outside counsel, but her office has not formally approved Gansler's contract. It has, however, signed a contract with Gansler's Washington, D.C.-based law firm BuckleySandler. Kane said Monday that the prosecutors will use the expired independent counsel law's $2 million threshold as a cap on legal expenses, although it's unclear whether that's a binding figure. Currently, the language of the signed contract does not include a cap. "It's a lot of money when there's need all over," said Rep. Marguerite Quinn, R-Bucks, as one of only two lawmakers to ask questions about the email probe. "I don't believe a cap would be put in unless there's a possibility to come near it." Responding to Quinn, Kane said she disagreed with the lawmaker's statements. Her office, she added, has a responsibility to ensure the judicial system is fair to the various groups -- including women and racial minorities -- who were the subjects of offensive emails between defense attorneys, judges, prosecutors and other state officials. So far, the scandal over the email exchange resulted in disciplinary action against at least 61 AG's office employees; several resignations and early retirements; and, most recently, the suspension of a second Supreme Court justice implicated in the email exchange. The cap on expenses was simply designed to contain those costs, she said. "That doesn't mean that's going to be spent," she said. "That doesn't mean it's going to reach that." In the BuckleySandler contract released in December, five individuals are listed in the contract's fee structure, with a note that the firm has discounted their normal hourly rate by 15 percent: Elizabeth R. Bailey, $480 Caitlin Kasmar, $740 Benjamin B. Klubes, $880 Leah Kuo, $205 Antonio Reynolds, $685 Gansler's appointment order stipulated that he would be paid expenses and the same per diem as Kane. Her current annual salary is $159,000, but it's unclear whether Gansler would receive any money without a formal contract signed. In a phone interview after the hearing, Kane spokesman Chuck Ardo said the Attorney General's Office is currently considering several additions to the BuckleySandler contract, including bringing Gansler's per diem rate under the umbrella of his firm's contract. "I don't know the specifics, but I know that there were some details to be worked out," he said. "Again, we don't anticipate there being any problem." Rep. Warren Kampf, R-Chester, asked Kane explicitly about the costs budgeted and already incurred by the special prosecutors. Although $750,000 has been budgeted for their investigation, Kane said the agency has processed an invoice totaling $67,157.62 to date. With four months left in the fiscal year, she said she doesn't expect to reach the budgeted amount. The same figure will be carried over in the 2016-17 budget. Quinn also asked Kane about her ability to convey legal authority to a special prosecutor as an attorney with a suspended law license, to which the attorney general said the matter will be left to attorneys to debate. "Again, I'll submit that there's no question as to my authority," Kane said. "The Commonwealth Attorneys Act is very clear (that) the attorney general has the authority and I am the attorney general." Kane, who also faces a possible impeachment process from the House, left the hearing without taking questions from the media. The BuckleySandler contract is included in its entirety below. pipeline map in Cumberland County.png This map shows the path the proposed Mariner East II will take through Cumberland County. Three Upper Frankford Township property owners are fighting Sunoco Pipeline's authority to use eminent domain to take a portion of their land for the project. (Sunoco Pipeline. ) CARLISLE - Three Cumberland County property owners will have to wait until at least next month to find out if their arguments against a pipeline, proposed to run beneath their land, will stand up in court. Monday was the second day of testimony in Cumberland County Court in the case of Upper Frankford Township property owners Rolfe Blume, John Perry and Alan Walters, who are arguing Sunoco Pipeline does not have the authority to take a portion of their land to build the underground pipeline that will ship liquid natural gas across the state. After the hearing, Cumberland County Judge M.L. Ebert asked both parties to submit briefs with the court before he makes his ruling as to whether or not Sunoco Pipeline is authorized to exercise the power of eminent domain to take a portion of their land for the Mariner East II pipeline project. The parties have until March 31 to submit their arguments with the court. This map shows the path the proposed Mariner East II pipeline will take through the state. While the property owners say the company does not have that power, Sunoco Pipeline officials pointed out three other judges have already ruled in the company's favor in similar cases. Through the two days of testimony held on Feb. 8 and on Monday, Mike Faherty, the attorney representing the property owners, argued that under state law, eminent domain cannot be used for private enterprise, even if there is an element of public use, which he said is the situation here. The pipeline will move liquid natural gas from Ohio through Pennsylvania to the Delaware River for shipment overseas, making it subject to federal regulations and not the state regulations that allow for eminent domain, he said. But judges in Huntingdon and Washington counties, as well in another Cumberland County case with different property owners, have sided with Sunoco Pipeline and ruled it is indeed a public utility with the power exercise eminent domain. And nothing has changed in the pipeline plans since Cumberland County Judge Edward Guido ruled in Sunoco's favor last year, Sunoco Pipeline vice president of business development Aaron Alexander testified, backing the company's argument that Ebert should rule the same way. Alexander testified Sunoco Pipeline has been recognized as a public utility and the state's Public Utility Commission has recognized a public need for the pipeline to ship its supply of liquid natural gas. The public necessity became apparent after the polar vortex of 2013 and 2014 brought frigid temperatures and a statewide shortage of propane, he said. The current Mariner East pipeline does not have the necessary capacity, making the new pipeline a public need that benefits the people of Pennsylvania, Alexander said. And pipelines are safer and cheaper than shipping by highway or railroad, he added. It would take 500 trucks daily to ship the proposed pipeline's capacity of 275,000 barrels per day at a cost of 20 to 30 cents per barrel, compared to 7 cents per barrel via pipeline. But Fahrety argued the contracts currently in place for the Mariner East II are for shipment overseas and not in Pennsylvania, making this an interstate pipeline rather than an intrastate pipeline - thus not subject to the use of eminent domain. Alexander countered the pipeline has the capability of loading and off loading the product in Pennsylvania to meet the demand here. "It's like the highway system with on ramps and off ramps in the state and out of the state," he said. Additional testimony came from Sunoco Pipeline land-project manager Bart Mitchell, who said that bonds will be put up so that any damage done to the property while installing the pipeline will be paid for by the company. And the pipeline will run underground, allowing the property owners to continue to use their land just about any way they want. "They can farm on it, hunt on it and play on it," he said. "They just can't build a house on it." PASS CHRISTIAN, Mississippi -- A Pass Christian man is in the hospital after being shot in the face. Harrison County Sheriff Troy Peterson tells media outlets that the victim, whose identity has not been released, was driving his vehicle in Pass Christian and was sideswiped by another car Saturday night. The victim then turned his car around and followed the vehicle that hit him. Peterson says the two cars came to a stop at an intersection before the suspect got out of his vehicle and shot the victim in the face. The victim was taken to a hospital. The investigation is ongoing. Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Harrison County Sheriff's Department. Lancaster police are seeking an 18-year-old man who pleaded guilty to aggravated assault in a 2014 city shooting. Ryan Rivera is wanted on an outstanding bench warrant for an aggravated assault in January 2014 on the 400 block of High Street. Rivera, who was a juvenile at the time of the incident, was charged as an adult and sentenced to 1 year in prison and 10 years of probation. Police said Rivera was one of several men engaged in what was described as a gunbattle. The Lancaster County Sheriff's office issued an arrest warrant for Rivera in November 2015. Authorities have yet to locate Rivera. Lancaster City-County Crime Stoppers is offering a $1,000 reward for information that leads to the arrest and or conviction of Rivera. Police ask anyone with information as to Rivera's whereabouts to call 717-664-1180; call Lancaster City-County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-322-1913; submit a tip button on the Lancaster police website; or text a tip to Crime Stoppers by texting LANCS plus your message to 847411. A 42-year-old man sentenced for shooting another man in the leg outside of a Lancaster speakeasy in 2013 had his prison term reduced in county court recently. Fidel Montanez will now serve three to 10 years in state prison rather than the five to 10 year sentence originally levied by a Lancaster County President Judge Dennis Reinaker. The Pennsylvania Supreme Court's decision deeming mandatory minimum sentences involving gun crimes unconstitutional paved the way for the reduced sentence. Montanez was convicted of felony aggravated assault and recklessly endangering another person in March of 2014. Witnesses said he shot a 21-year-old man after an altercation just before 4 a.m. on the 200 block of West King Street. Montanez went to a parked car, grabbed a gun and fired several shots in the air before shooting the victim in the leg. Reinaker noted Montanez's work history as a reason for a reduced sentence, according to a news release from the Lancaster County district attorney's office. Officials said. Assistant District Attorney Travis Anderson argued that Montanez has never taken responsibility for shooting the victim and deserved the sentence. Chesapeake Bay bridge.jpg The U.S. Supreme Court on Monday upheld a federal court ruling allowing the Environmental Protection Agency and state regulators to move ahead with efforts to reduce pollution in the Chesapeake Bay. (File photo) A U.S. Supreme Court decision Monday not to hear an appeal ensures Pennsylvania has a lot of work to do in reducing pollution to the Chesapeake Bay. By refusing to hear the appeal from 22 states and myriad farmers challenging a federal plan that limits pollution in the Chesapeake Bay, the U.S. Supreme Court let stand a lower court ruling that upheld the Environmental Protection Agency's restrictions on farm and construction runoff and wastewater treatment. Known as the Chesapeake Clean Water Blueprint, the plan aims to reduce pollution in local rivers and streams that lead to the contaminated bay. That means extra work for state regulators and farmers in Pennsylvania and its neighbors around the bay: District of Columbia, Delaware, Maryland, New York, Virginia and West Virginia. Of those states, West Virginia is the only one opposed to federal regulations. Pennsylvania and New York hadn't taken a firm stand, and the rest supported the EPA's plan. All of the states around the bay agreed to meet 60 percent of their pollution reduction goals by 2017. The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection was written up by the EPA last year for failure to control agricultural runoff into the bay. While most of the problems occurred before the Wolf administration took office, DEP Secretary John Quigley last year called for a "reboot" of the agency's plan to control pollution from entering the Susquehanna River and flowing to the Chesapeake Bay. In conjunction with the Department of Agriculture and Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, the plan identifies new ways to better reduce pollution. The effort includes stronger enforcement, technical and financial assistance for farmers, and other strategies. Based on Pennsylvania's reported progress in 2014-15, EPA found the department was on track with phosphorus reduction and behind with reducing nitrogen and sediment pollution. The state also fell behind nitrogen and sediment pollution in 2012-13. Ag runoff has been a major source of bay pollution along with wastewater and air pollution. Data shows Pennsylvania also needs to reduce runoff from urban areas, septic systems and suburban developments. Given DEP's current pace of enforcement, it will take more than 150 years for state regulators to bring all farms into compliance, according to the EPA. Pennsylvania also needs to add 22,000 acres of forest and grass buffers to meet its goals by next year. Only 3,000 acres had been added by last year. Some of those 22,000 acres - about 20 percent - will come from crop land that gets removed from food production. "The economic viability of local farmers could be in jeopardy because of this plan," said Mark O'Neill, spokesman for the Pennsylvania Farm Bureau. That's largely why the bureau joined the American Farm Bureau Federation in the lawsuit, he said. "The plan allows EPA to do whatever they want, whenever they want," O'Neill said. "(The Supreme Court ruling) is a major disappointment for farmers across the state." Pennsylvania agreed to reduce urban and suburban runoff 41 percent by 2025. According to EPA records, the state reduced nitrogen pollution by 1 percent as of 2014. In Lancaster County alone, there are 400,000 acres of farmland where nitrogen needs to be reduced by 35 percent, phosphorus by 27 percent and sediment by 39 percent. "It is past time for Pennsylvania to take meaningful actions that will accelerate pollution reduction," William Baker, Chesapeake Bay Foundation, said last year. On Monday, Baker praised the Supreme Court decision. "This is a historic day for the Bay," he said in a statement. "Everyone who cares about clean water can breathe easier now that the Supreme Court" has upheld previous court decisions. "The ruling today underscores the importance of the reboot strategy and the need to improve local water quality here in (Pennsylvania)," DEP spokesman Neil Shader said. For the Chesapeake Bay Foundation, it means the end to a five-year court battle and the beginning of real efforts to reduce pollution. "Now, we can all lay down the law books and focus on the hard work of restoring the bay to a healthy and vibrant state," Jon Mueller, the foundation's vice president for litigation, said in a statement. His words were echoed by national and state environmental groups, including PennFuture. "The blueprint is a significant partnership across states and sectors to correct years of pollution, degradation and impairment to the Chesapeake Bay watershed," Jacquelyn Bonomo, PennFuture's vice president, said in a statement. "Today's ruling upholds a science-based plan to improve water quality and public health here in Pennsylvania and throughout the bay states." Even if Anthony had a year to analyze and dissect each piece...(he couldn't tell if it would)... stand the harsh light of public exposure. WUWT insider Willis Eschenbach tells you all you need to know about Anthony Watts and his blog, WattsUpWithThat (WUWT). As part of his scathing commentary , Wondering Willis accuses Anthony Watts of being clueless about the blog articles he posts. To paraphrase: Click here to read more. Sylvester Stallone is already feeling like a winner on Oscar night. Ive never felt better to tell you the truth, the Creed star and Best Supporting Actor nominee told PEOPLE preshow correspondent Alicia Quarles on the red carpet. All the aches and pains go away its a modern day miracle. Fans chanted Rocky! as the 69-year-old actor made his way down the carpet the final event of a Rocky-esque career comeback that netted him a Golden Globe and an Oscar nomination for his supporting role in Creed. That his appearance at the 2016 Academy Awards comes nearly 40 years since he last walked the red carpet as a nominee was not lost on Stallone: When I came here before, like, 40 years ago you dont appreciate, he recalled of his 1977 double nominations for Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay for the original Rocky film. But now you understand how hard it is to stick around and how many experiences youve had, he reflected. Now, Im just making a mental movie of all this. Check out PEOPLEs full Academy Awards 2016 coverage and complete winners list! The Hollywood knockout has not been taking this awards season for granted, sharing his gratitude in an Instagram post. Jennifer and me off to the Oscar race great Moreno matter what happens! he captioned a photo with his wife Jennifer Flavin as they headed off to the ceremony. He followed up by calling the show the best night ever! For all things Oscars, click here to head over to PEOPLEs Snapchat Discover, where were breaking down the best dresses of the nights, most meme-orable moments and everything in between. In one of the biggest upsets in Oscar history, Rocky ended up beating out heavyweights as Taxi Driver, Network, All the Presidents Men and Bound for Glory to win Best Picture in 1977. However, Stallone went home empty-handed after losing Best Actor and Best Original Screenplay. Is a comeback 39 years in the making in the cards for him tonight? The 88th annual Awards, hosted by Chris Rock, are being presented live on ABC from the Dolby Theater in Hollywood, California.